The king said, "I am muddle-headed, and can not afford a better understanding of what you say. I hope you will help me toward the attainment of my ideal, and instruct me plainly. I will try to carry out your instructions, though I am slow-witted."

The king said, ‘I am stupid, and not able to advance to this. I wish you, my Master, to assist my intentions. Teach me clearly; although I am deficient in intelligence and vigour, I will essay and try to carry your instructions into effect.’

I am dull, said the King; I cannot advance to that. I wish the Master to teach me clearly, and prop my will. Although I am not quick, try, I pray you.

"I’m not all that bright," said the emperor. "I still can't see my way through this. But I’m determined and want your help. If you’ll explain clearly, perhaps I can learn, and even though I’m not terribly clever, I'll try to act on your counsel."

The king replied, my intellect is dull, I am incapable of advancing to such things. I beg you, Sir, to assist my inclination, and enlighten me by your instructions ; although I am not of quick perception, I desire to try thus to act (or try whether you can teach me to govern in this manner).