fashion. In Chinese legend, a Ch'i Lin (Unicorn) appeared with a jade tablet in its mouth, the following words being inscribed upon it: "A child as pure as crystal will be born for the continuation of the declining Chou , to become a King without a kingdom." From this we can appreciate that Confucius was not any ordinary person. His birth had been foretold, and as such, he was to be the saviour of his people. That was how the prophecy went, at least. In China, there is a traditional maxim which states "the whole history [of human beings] would have been in darkness had Heaven not sent Confucius to the world." Thus, before he was even born, China anticipated the arrival of a Heaven-sent Master who would guide them. There are various indicators in the words Confucius is recorded as having said that point to his confirmation of the prophecy. "Heaven is going to use your master as a bell with its wooden tongue"(The Analects 3:24) shows that Confucius was aware of what was expected of him, both by his followers and by Heaven itself.