In The Strategies of the Warring States: National Strategies, there is a story entitled “Feng Xuan, Guest of Lord Mengchang.” It tells of Lord Mengchang of the State of Qi during the Warring States period (475-221 B.C.), who hosted thousands of guests under his roof.

Among them was a man named Feng Xuan, who once drew his sword and sang at Lord Mengchang’s residence: “When shall I return with my long sword? I have no fish to eat, no carriage to ride, and no means to support my family.” As a result, Feng Xuan was provided with fish to eat and a carriage to ride, and his mother also received care from Lord Mengchang.

One day, Lord Mengchang issued a notice asking the guests in his household: “Is there anyone here skilled in accounting and financial management who can go to Xue on my behalf to collect debts?” Feng Xun wrote on the notice: “I can.” So Lord Mengchang sent Feng Xun to collect the debts. As he was taking his leave, Feng Xun asked: “Once all the debts have been collected, what should I buy with the money?” Lord Mengchang replied: “See what my household lacks, and buy that.”

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