Legge Translation (1861)

The Duke Ai inquired of You Ruo, saying: "The year is one of scarcity, and the returns for expenditure are not sufficient; — what is to be done?"

You Ruo replied to him: "Why not simply tithe the people?"

"With two tenths," said the duke, "I find it not enough; — how could I do with that system of one tenth?"

You Ruo answered: "If the people have plenty, their prince will not be left to want alone. If the people are in want, their prince cannot enjoy plenty alone."