My friend Minghe:
Seeing your letter is like meeting you.
It has been nearly three years since we parted at Wansong Academy. My mother has been ill for a long time, and I have been attending to her bedside, not daring to travel far. In search of a cure, I have spent all my money and accumulated debts that are hard to repay. My home is bare, with only the Zither you gifted me remaining. I recall our strolls at West Lake, where you often said we should emulate the words of the sages: "When in poverty, maintain your integrity; when prosperous, help the world." Reflecting on this, I realize there is no world left for me to aid, and I only seek temporary peace for myself. The fires at Yanmen Pass are hard to extinguish, making communication difficult, and I do not know when we will meet again. I hope you make many wise and talented friends, write splendid articles, and take care of yourself. Let us encourage each other.
Songzhi at Yanmen Pass