Legge Translation (1861)

Zhonggong, being chief minister to the Head of the Ji family, asked about government. The Master said: "Employ first the services of your various officers, pardon small faults, and raise to office men of virtue and talents."

Zhonggong said: "How shall I know the men of virtue and talent, so that I may raise them to office?"

He was answered: "Raise to office those whom you know. As to those whom you do not know, will others neglect them?"