In ancient times, a man from the State of Song found a stone in Linzi. After examining it repeatedly, he believed it to be a priceless treasure. He hurried home, wrapped it in dozens of layers of silk, and placed it inside a leather box. Still uneasy, he then nested this box within dozens of other boxes.
A treasure appraiser, hearing of this, promptly visited the man and requested to see the treasure.
To be prudent, the man from Song bathed, burned incense, cleansed his mind, calmed his mood, and engaged in self-cultivation for seven days. Then, dressed in ceremonial robes, he respectfully brought out the box and carefully extracted the stone.
Upon seeing it, the appraiser nearly burst into laughter but quickly covered his mouth. He leaned close and whispered, "This is merely a stone, as worthless as a tile."
The man from Song, thinking the appraiser was envious and trying to cheat him, was much displeased. He said, "Merchants always belittle others' wares, and doctors exaggerate patients' illnesses—all to make more money. I will not be fooled!"
Thereafter, he treasured the stone even more, keeping it in a very secure place.