Have you ever done something that looks really silly, but makes you or your friends really moved? Today's story is about that. It's a story of a famous saying about the swan feather (天鹅羽毛) in China.
A Tang Dynasty officer in Yunnan wanted to show his respect (尊重) to the emperor. He sent Mian Bogao to take some gifts to the emperor. It was a very valuable gift at that time.
Mian took good care of the swan on his way to the palace. One day, he walked for a long time with the swan. But as soon as he set the swan free, the swan flew away, only leaving some feathers on the ground. Mian was very worried, but he didn't run away. He thought telling lies could lead to more trouble in the end. So he picked up a feather and kept going on his trip.
When Mian met the emperor, he told him what happened and said, "This swan feather is light, but it carries my deep respect for you." The emperor was moved by Mian's honesty and sincerity (真诚). He wasn't angry with Mian. The saying shows that a good gift doesn't have to be expensive. They play an important role in our life.
A. He decided to tell the emperor the truth.
B. One of the gifts was a beautiful swan.
C. He wanted to make good friends with the emperor.
D. This saying comes from a historic book called Lu Shi.
E. Actually, honesty and sincerity are more valuable.
F. He wanted to let the swan drink some water by a lake.
