Benevolence brings under its sway whatever hinders its power, just as water subdues fire: they only doubt the power of water to quench flames who try to extinguish with a cupful a whole burning wagon-load of fagots. Mencius
Everything in Good Measure
Rectitude carried to excess hardens into stiffness; Benevolence indulged beyond measure sinks into weakness. Date Masamune
This Once Was True
It is impossible that any one should become ruler of the people to whom they have not yielded the subjection of their hearts. Mencius
Requirement of a True Ruler
Instances are on record where individuals attained to supreme power in a single state, without benevolence, but never have I heard of a whole empire falling into the hands of one who lacked this virtue. Mencius