Emperor Yao, recognizing Xu You's virtue, believed that having Xu You govern would benefit the people. He therefore decided to abdicate and offer him the crown.
However, Xu You refused the offer. He left the capital stealthily and took refuge in the home of an ordinary man. This man, fearing Xu You might steal his valuable hat, hid it away secretly.
Xu You had even declined a kingdom, yet this man worried about his hat. Clearly, the man did not understand Xu You's character.