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When powerful magnates control key state affairs, both inner‑palace attendants and outer officials become their tools. Hence neighboring states will not cooperate unless relying on them, so enemy states speak for them. Government officials cannot advance unless submitting to them, so ministers serve them. Palace attendants cannot approach the ruler unless clinging to them,…
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Men of wisdom and statecraft must possess far‑sighted vision and sharp insight. Without sharp insight, they cannot expose private scheming.Men capable of upholding law must be resolute, firm and upright. Without firm uprightness, they cannot correct treacherous conduct.