Rivers in this sense may also be seen as symbols of the ongoing tradition of Chinese culture, but in a way that suggests that individuals may significantly alter and exploit that culture. As Ti Jen-chieh, submitting a memorial to great Empress Wu in 698, expressed it, "People are like water. If you block it, it forms springs [underground]; if you lead it forth, it forms rivers. It may go through barriers or follow in a current. How can it have a constant nature?"

     The men whose initiative channels and diverts a stream, or who bring water to new land, are in cultural terms originators and pioneers of new and creative developments. They have altered the course of history and brought knowledge and prosperity to communities. The Chuan Lyu foundation which has given with such generosity and imagination to the cause of Chinese and in particular to Taiwanese culture, is formed by the Foundation, which has given with such generosity and imagination to the cause of Chinese and in particular to Taiwanese culture, is formed by just such people. We at Cambridge have special reason to be grateful to the Foundation. They are the first benefactors in the long history of the University who have given to Chinese Studies at the University on a scale that permits us to establish a named fund in their honor.

     The visit of Dr. Lee Hwalin and Mrs. Sue Liu, which marks the founding of the Chuan Lyu Lectures, has provided us all here tonight with true cause for celebration. It is a delight to drink first to the health of the Foundation, and then to the health of Dr. Darrell Liu, former Fellow of St. John's, who sadly is not here tonight in his old College, but whose kindness brought us into contact with Dr. Lee.