During the 1850s, amidst unrest in Taiwan, Tang Yian accompanied an imperial envoy to restore order. Anxious for news of his brother Tang Shengan, who was leading troops in Xiamen across the strait, Tang found communication nearly impossible due to the war.
One day, four laborers brought a gigantic sea turtle for sale at a high price. Tang's subordinate considered buying it but hesitated. When the laborers approached Mrs. Tang, she also thought the price too high. As they were about to leave, Mrs. Tang saw the turtle looking at her with sad, tearful eyes. Moved by pity, she purchased it despite the cost. After discussing with her husband, they decided to release it into the ocean the next day.
Though four men had carried the turtle in, Tang found it surprisingly light the next morning. "This is no ordinary turtle," he thought. Silently, he addressed it: "I believe you must be a supernatural being. Whether you are or not, I will set you free today, September 8th. If you possess powers, I would greatly appreciate it if you could have my brother in Xiamen write to me."
He then released the turtle. It frolicked happily in the waves and, as it swam away, looked back and nodded three times as if in thanks.
A month later, a letter arrived from Tang Shengan, reporting his safety. The letter was dated September 8th.
Was it mere coincidence, or had the turtle understood Tang's telepathic message? Perhaps this was its way of expressing gratitude. The Tang brothers later retired from military service and often shared this story with neighbors, reminding people that animals cherish life and that helping them can sometimes bring unexpected rewards.