The Jade Returned Whole to Zhao
Neutral
The poem
Original: 梦中说得是多财 / 声名云外总虚来 / 水远山遥难信实 / 贵人指点笑颜开
The story
Qin was strong and Zhao weak when King Zhao of Qin offered fifteen cities for Zhao's famous jade disc. Lin Xiangru carried the jade to Qin, saw that the king meant to seize it without paying, and threatened to smash it against a pillar. By steady nerve he brought the jade home untouched, which is the origin of the phrase.
What it means
The image is treasure gained in a dream, and there is more appearance here than substance. Money spoken of, fame carried far, and nothing solid underneath; a promise made across mountains is not to be trusted on its face. The remedy is discrimination, because the more attractive someone's terms, the more closely you should ask for proof. Listen to the person who actually knows, see through the fine words, and you will keep the real treasure that you already hold.
By area of life
Wealth
What you are asking for is largely illusory. A distant promise will not be honoured, so protect the capital you have.
Love
Do not be dazzled by appearances here. Choose someone of good character whose temperament genuinely suits your own way of living.
Work
Build the business on substance rather than on reputation, and check the terms of every agreement in very careful detail.
Health
Seeing through vanity and the pursuit of face is itself a remedy. An ordinary, unanxious mind helps the healing along.
Travel
Going abroad to study largely for the sake of prestige will cost you far more than the thing is worth.
Advice
Before you hand over the jade, ask to see the deed for the cities.