A man named Fu Xian was fond of reading. Though proficient in literature and etiquette, he was stubbornly adherent to outworn rules. Being impractical and dull, he resembled an old pedant.
One day, Fu Xian strolled down the street with measured strides, asking everyone he met, "Have you seen Wei San?"
Someone pointed the way, and he continued his unhurried walk. Upon finding Wei San, he caught his breath and said, "I just saw your wife doing needlework under a tree. She grew tired and fell asleep. Your child was playing near a well, only three to five chi away. It seemed an accident might occur. However, due to the prudent reserve required between men and women, it was not proper for me to awaken your wife myself. That is why I have come to tell you."
Hearing this, Wei San was panic-stricken and rushed home. When he arrived, his wife was bent over the well, wailing bitterly for their son.