」李克曰：「臣聞之，賤不謀貴，外不謀內，疏不謀親，臣者疏賤，不敢聞命。
I am both distant and of low position, so I dare not listen to your command.” “This is an important affair of state,” said Marquis Wen. “I hope you will not decline to consider it closely with me.” “It is evident that Your Lordship has not thought carefully about the factors involved,” said Li Ke.
」文侯曰：「此國事也，願與先生臨事勿辭。
“When considering a person of high rank, one must pay attention to the manner in which he raises people to office.
」李克曰：「君不察故也，可知矣，貴視其所舉，富視其所與，貧視其所不取，窮視其所不為，由此觀之可知矣。
When considering a person of wealth, one must take note of those with whom he associates.
」文侯曰：「先生出矣，寡人之相定矣。
When considering a person of low position, one must look at what he declines to accept.
」李克出，過翟黃，翟黃問曰：「吾聞君問相於先生，未知果孰為相？
When considering a person of limited means, one must observe what he refrains from doing.
」李克曰：「季成子為相。
If you look at the matter in this light, you will be able to see the answer.” “You may withdraw sir,” said the marquis.
」翟黃作色不悅曰：「觸失望於先生。」
“I have determined who my prime minister will be.” After leaving, Li Ke went to see Zhai Huang [Zhai Chu], who said to him, “I have heard that his lordship consulted with you concerning the prime ministership—I would like to know who will be his choice.” “Ji Chengzi will be the prime minister,” said Li Ke.
“I am disappointed with you,” said Zhai Huang, displeased.