Gong Yixiu, the prime minister of the state of Lu, was very fond of fish. People who knew of his fondness would bring fish to his home as gifts. However, Gong Yixiu refused all such offerings.
He reasoned that if he accepted fish from others, he would feel obliged to accommodate their requests. Such accommodation might eventually lead him to break the law and be removed from his post. If that happened, even though he still loved fish, no one would likely bring him any.
Instead, he used his own salary to buy fish. Although this meant spending his own money, it was a simple and reliable method. As long as he remained in office, his ample salary ensured he could always afford fish without any worries.