A geomancer whom we have consulted in this matter has examined the position. He has advised that this year, when the grave is in the southern part of the cosmic cycle, lives will be cut short if the grave is harmed: and if land in front or behind the grave, or to its left or right, is disturbed it will be difficult to preserve the lives [of our clansmen] and people will certainly die. The whole clan will have to disperse.
Because of this, our entire clan's four branches, male and female, old and young, can have no peace and quiet in their lives. All are in a confused state and know not what to do. We cannot but object, we cannot stop or rest [in our best endeavours], and we have decided to inform you of our united and sincere opposition.
We invite you, knowing both government policies and the people's disposition, to cancel the order [to remove the grave] and to select another site for development. If this protection cannot be achieved, all descendants of the Wong clan's four branches will oppose [government] to the death, as in the spirit of the Anti-Japanese War [1937-45], and with tearful eyes and blood flowing, will fight to protect the founding ancestor's grave and keep it in its present position.
For as long as there is our ancestral grave, there will be descendants: but without the ancestral grave, there will be no living persons [in our clan]. 'When drinking water, think of its source' [Chinese proverb]. Thus we have to oppose the government in this matter. If there are any losses arising from the government's actions, it will carry the full responsibility.
If, however, it is possible to discuss and negotiate over the siting [of the development] and select another place, the government will have shown a benevolent heart, and acted with rectitude, loving the people as if it were its own sons. Then our founding ancestor will have [continued] good fortune and the clansmen will enjoy long lives; and the government will have calmed the people and done a meritorious deed.
171