King Wu of Qin told Gan Mao to choose between two posts: royal attendant and administrative official. Meng Mao advised him: “You had better become a royal attendant. Your strength lies in diplomatic missions and errands. Even as an attendant, the king will still send you on missions. If you hold the seal of an attendant while performing administrative duties, you will occupy two offices concurrently.”
Note
This passage comes from Han Feizi, Chapter: The Forest of Persuasions (Part I).
This passage shows that wise officials assess their own strengths and the ruler’s habits. A seemingly humble position can bring more opportunities and power than a formal high post.
Late Warring‑States Legalist philosopher. He cites official tact to illustrate practical wisdom.
King Wu of Qin
Ruler of the State of Qin during the Warring States period.
Gan Mao
Distinguished minister and general of Qin, adept at diplomacy and state affairs.
Meng Mao
A statesman known for sharp insight into official positions and human minds.
Ancient Official Posts
Royal attendant was a close aide serving the monarch; administrative official took charge of routine state affairs. They were separate positions in the Qin official system.
Concurrent Holding of Offices
To hold two official posts at the same time meant gaining double power and influence, a common pursuit for ambitious ministers in that era.
Official Tactics
Choosing a seemingly minor post to retain actual power reflects the sophisticated workplace wisdom of Warring States officials.
秦武王令甘茂擇所欲為於僕與行事，孟卯曰：「公不如為僕。公所長者、使也，公雖為僕，王猶使之於公也。公佩僕璽而為行事，是兼官也。」
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