Chapter Ninety-One In the full glory of the Kaiyuan era, amidst myriad blossoms (III)

　　He said:　　"I long to unfold my diligent efforts, to devote my strength unto a wise sovereign.　　With the talent of a king’s right hand, I stand magnanimous, apart from the common throng."　　Now, after the matter of the locusts, the character and ability of the local officials gradually revealed themselves. For the concern of the flourishing age, Yao Chong and Lu Huaishen, together with others, deliberated and resolved to remonstrate with Emperor Xuanzong concerning reform in the governance of officials.　　One day, at court in the morning, Yao Chong was the first to address Xuanzong, saying: "May it please Your Majesty, we ministers have received your command to build this flourishing reign, and after years of toil, much has been achieved. Yet after the calamity of the locusts, while we handled matters of governance, we observed that many of the officials selected this year are but incompetents, unable above to execute the holy commands, unable below to bring blessings to the people, no different from moths gnawing at wood. If this long continues, the state and altars shall be imperiled. Therefore we ministers entreat that Your Majesty personally examine the worthies, that each may be entrusted to his post." Xuanzong, hearing this, greatly approved and joyfully said: "What my beloved minister has spoken is entirely true. Soon the results of the new examinations shall be presented, and then all ministers, civil and military, shall attend together. Both new and old officials shall be reviewed by Myself. Those truly possessing learning and practical talent shall be made officials; those who are mere impostors, I shall assuredly punish without mercy."　　All the ministers, civil and military, in unison replied: "Your Majesty is most sagacious!" Xuanzong then added: "Before the new examinations, I must trouble you all to make careful preparations." The ministers declared it but their du