雙語智慧書·投石問路

164．投石問路
　　投石問路，以洞察人們是怎樣看待某些事情，尤其是那些不知道是否能夠被接受、是否會(huì)成功的事情。這樣，就能確保行事有好的結(jié)果，并且可以獲得一個(gè)選擇的機(jī)會(huì)，是繼續(xù)認(rèn)真做下去還是全身而退。智者通過試探他人的想法，從而知道自己的處境。這是在提出詢問、請(qǐng)求和管理他人之時(shí)最具遠(yuǎn)見的重大法則。


164．Throw straws in the air
　Throw straws in the air, to find how things will be received, especially those whose reception or success is doubtful. One can thus be assured of its turning out well, and an opportunity is afforded for going on in earnest or withdrawing entirely. By trying men's intentions in this way, the wise man knows on what ground he stands. This is the great rule of foresight in asking, in desiring, and in ruling.