Prince Jiu plotted a rebellion. Duke Huan of Qi sent an envoy to spy on him. The messenger reported: “He forces a smile without joy and stares blankly as if seeing nothing; he is bound to stage a revolt.” Thereupon Duke Huan ordered the State of Lu to put Prince Jiu to death.
Note
Inner schemes manifest through unnatural outward manners; prudent observation of subtle demeanor helps rulers eliminate potential rebellious dangers in advance.
Late Warring States Legalist, cites this Spring and Autumn historic incident to illustrate observing facial expressions to judge inner intentions.
Duke Huan of Qi
Duke Huang, famous overlord of Spring and Autumn Period, ruler of Qi.
Prince Jiu
Royal envoy
The official who judged conspiracy via the prince’s abnormal demeanor.
Background of Qi’s throne struggle
Duke Huan and Prince Jiu fought for Qi’s crown earlier; Jiu took refuge in Lu, remaining a hidden threat to Qi’s regime.
Physiognomy for political judgment
Ancient Chinese monarchs commonly judged subordinates’ loyalty or treachery from abnormal facial expression and bearing.
Interstate diplomatic coercion
Powerful Qi could compel subordinate State of Lu to execute political fugitives under pressure, typical Spring and Autumn interstate rules.
公子糾將為亂，桓公使使者視之，使者報曰：「笑不樂，視不見，必為亂。」乃使魯人殺之。
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