《左传·昭公·昭公五年》
顺从而不过度，恭敬而有节制，以古圣先贤的言语作为引导，对传统的法度加以奉行，考核先王的事情，把两国的利害得失加以衡量，楚王虽然骄纵，能把我怎么样？ 
从而不失仪，敬而不失威，道之以训辞，奉之以旧法，考之以先王，度之以二国，虽汏侈，若我何？ 
If we are meek but not excessive, respectful but within limits, use the words of ancient sages and wise men as guidance, follow the traditional rules, examine the affairs of the previous kings, and weigh the gains and losses of the two countries, I wonder how arrogant King Chu can be and harm me?