Library

(With a Preface)
In the year of Jiyou, at the age of twenty-six, I acquired this art in Jiangxia. Considering that the woodblock-printed books available in the market had many omissions and errors, I intended to compile a superior edition to teach my son Kai, so that he could practice as an ophthalmologist. By the year of Xinyou, I had roughly completed the volumes.
Those who saw it flattered me to my face but criticized me behind my back. Therefore, I sifted through the sand to find gold, extensively collected materials, and provided detailed explanations. After more than ten years, with the manuscript revised four times, the book was finally finalized. Burdened by hunger and lacking leisure time for copying, in early May of this year, I stayed as a guest at Zhong Xianshi’s Bamboo Residence. The lodging was exquisite and clean, and my mind became even clearer and more tranquil. I took the complete collection, transcribed it, and bound it properly. After the guests departed and I woke from sleep, I casually browsed through it, feeling that the flavor of the book lasted as long as the sweetness of tea. Not ashamed to speak boldly, I said: "This is the pinnacle; it can enlighten future generations." Thus, I composed a poem to record my joy:
The art wanders without seeking reward, benefiting the Central Plains;
The brush carries scriptures of tens of thousands of words.
Subtle principles exist continuously, connecting with the Great Change;
Vitality subtly appears, revealing the primordial origin.
Dare I hope my name will remain in heaven and earth?
It should be that pure fragrance reaches descendants.
Let later learners not disdain my path as small;
The merit of saving lives can be discussed alongside national medicine.

Mr. Huang of Shuichuan's *Bicheng* (Pen Records) *Mujing* (Classic of Eyes), three volumes, covers both syndrome differentiation and treatment, with detailed annotations on prescriptions. It is nominally the work of an expert, but essentially it penetrates the entirety of medicine. Moreover, its language is elegant and crisp, understandable even to old women. Regarding matters of fortune, misfortune, regret, and shame that concern life and death, there are no instances where earnest advice and warnings are omitted. Criticism of heterodox and false learning is particularly vigorous, with volumes piling up like mountains. Praising elegance and supporting moral teachings, some say Mr. Huang possesses handsome demeanor and clear liver and gallbladder (metaphorically: integrity and courage), thus enabling him to surpass ordinary vision and penetrate into spiritual nature. Reading it feels like the light of Chongli (the Sun) shining, illuminating above and below, spreading benevolent influence broadly, reaching far and wide. Will medical education not flourish? Some say Mr. Huang lived comfortably in his hometown, outstanding and curious, mastering all arts and studies without短板 (shortcomings), thereby博览群书 (reading extensively) to create peerless skills. The section in the self-preface regarding Peifeng Shanren is merely fictional. Everyone knows what it is, but few understand why it is so. Today, trends renew daily, yet scholarly habits decline. Renowned youths only focus on examination essays to gain academic degrees and collect profits. How many seek to embody imperial benevolence, pity the people's livelihood, establish endless virtue upon its implementation, generation after generation! Mr. Huang, be brave to stand independently, using this opportunity to express his aspirations. Looking at the high mountain, admiration arises. Does Mr. Yi Fang not move my emotions? Dun, though unwise, respectfully accepts this profession. Trusting that Mr. Huang's ancient ways illuminate others, he will further elucidate their mysteries, not merely leaving words on paper.
Bowingly inscribed by Tong De Dun, student of Shanyang.