In the following memorial to the Emperor Renzong of the Song dynasty (960-1279), the eleventh-century reformer Wang Anshi expresses his political views:
Your servant observes that Your Majesty possesses the virtues of reverence and frugality, and is endowed with wisdom and sagacity. Rising early in the morning and retiring late in the evening, Your Majesty does not relax for even a. single day. Neither music, beautiful women, dogs, horses, sightseeing, nor any of the other objects of pleasure distract or becloud your intelligence in.....