In the translation circle of China,some scholars asserted that translation relied on the mastery of two languages and the accumulation of experience;for "there is no fixed principles to follow".If what they said is true,we think it is not necessary to establish translatology or set up translation training centers in universities.Through our translation of the long novel Jude the Obscure,we came to realize the importance of adhering to certain principle and employing adequate techniques.The present paper is our afterthought after the translation.