Book of Han, Volume 27
Comprehensive Mirror to Aid in Government, Volume 035
[Han Record 27] From the year of Tuwei Xieqia to the year of Xuanyan Yanmao, a total of four years.
Xiao Ai Emperor, Lower Yuan Shou First Year (Jiwei, 2 BCE)
Spring, first month, on the day of Xinchou, being the first day of the month, an edict was issued commanding the generals and officials of the rank of two thousand bushels each to recommend one person well-versed in military strategy. Thereupon, on the spot, Kongxiang Hou Fu Yan was appointed Grand Marshal and General of the Palace Guard, and Yang'an Hou Ding Ming was appointed Grand Marshal and General of the Agile Cavalry.
On this day, a solar eclipse occurred. The emperor issued an edict commanding the dukes, ministers, and high officials to exhaustively state their faults; he further ordered the recommendation of one person each who was virtuous, upright, and capable of direct remonstrance. A general amnesty was granted to the empire.
Chancellor Wang Jia submitted a sealed memorial, saying: "Emperor Xiao Yuan inherited the great enterprise. He was gentle and respectful, pure in heart and few in desires. The treasury had forty million cash in reserve. Once he toured the Shanglin Park. Consort Feng of the rear palace followed him to the front of the animal enclosure. A fierce beast, startled, leaped out. Consort Feng stepped forward to shield him. The Yuan Emperor praised her righteous act and bestowed fifty thousand cash upon her. Palace women in the Lateral Courts who were favored received additional gifts, but he instructed them not to repeatedly express gratitude. This demonstrated fairness, disliked partiality, and showed great concern for losing the people's hearts; his rewards were very frugal. At that time, the families of external relatives rarely had millions in wealth, so the treasuries of the Shaofu and Shuilieng had much ready cash. Although they encountered famines during the Chuyuan and Yongguang periods, coupled with the rebellion of the Western Qiang, supplying the army externally and relieving the poor internally, there was ultimately no danger of collapse—because the treasury reserves were ample. During the reign of Emperor Xiao Cheng, remonstrating officials often spoke of the harms of the emperor's private excursions outside the palace, as well as the exclusive favor of women, indulgence in wine and lust, damage to virtue, and shortening of lifespan. These words were very earnest, yet the emperor never grew angry or resentful. His favored ministers Chunyu Zhang, Zhang Fang, and Shi Yu—Shi Yu was repeatedly demoted, his family wealth not reaching a million cash; Zhang Fang was expelled and returned to his fief; Chunyu Zhang was tortured to death in prison. He did not harm public justice because of private affection. Therefore, although there were many criticisms within the palace, the court was stable and peaceful, and he passed the imperial enterprise to Your Majesty. When Your Majesty was in the fief, you delighted in the Book of Odes and the Book of Documents, esteemed frugality, and when summoned to the capital, the roads everywhere sang praises of your virtue—this was the reason the empire turned its hearts toward you. At the start of your reign, you changed the curtains and screens, removed brocade and embroidery, and used only coarse silk for the edges of the carriage and seat. The temple for Emperor Gong was supposed to be built according to precedent, but Your Majesty, pitying the people and worrying about insufficient funds, set aside private affection for the sake of public duty, and temporarily halted it. Only now has construction begun. However, the Commandant of the Equipage Dong Xian has also had an official residence built in the Shanglin Park. Moreover, a large mansion has been constructed for Dong Xian, with its main gate facing the northern watchtower of the palace. Water from the Wang Canal has been diverted to irrigate the garden pond. Supervisors were sent to oversee the work, and rewards were given to officials and laborers, even exceeding those for building the ancestral temple. When Dong Xian's mother fell ill, the imperial kitchen in Chang'an supplied sacrificial items, and even passersby on the road received food and drink. When utensils were made for Dong Xian, they were first presented to the emperor before use; if the items were exquisite, the craftsmen were specially rewarded. Even the offerings presented to the ancestral temple and the three palaces did not reach this level. When Dong Xian's household had guests for weddings or relatives meeting, all the government offices provided supplies together. Rewards extended to his servants and maids, each receiving one hundred thousand cash. Supervisors were sent to inspect and requisition goods from the market; the hundred merchants were shaken, the roads were filled with clamor and uproar, and the multitude of officials were confused and fearful. An edict ordered the cessation of parklands, yet two thousand and more qing of land were bestowed upon Dong Xian. The system of equal land allotment was thereby ruined. Extravagance and overstepping bounds, indulgence without restraint, disrupted yin and yang, and disasters and anomalies were numerous. Common people spread rumors, brandishing counting tallies to frighten each other; Heaven bewildered their hearts, and they could not stop themselves. Your Majesty has always been benevolent, wise, and cautious in conduct, yet now there are such grave criticisms. Confucius said: 'If the state is in danger and you do not support it, if it is toppling and you do not lift it, what use is that assistant?' I, Wang Jia, am fortunate to fill the position of chancellor, but in private I am grieved that I cannot express the sincerity of my foolish loyalty. If death could benefit the state, I would not dare to begrudge myself. I only hope that Your Majesty will be cautious regarding your personal enjoyments and clearly examine what all the people doubt. In former times, the favored ministers Deng Tong and Han Yan, arrogant and noble without restraint, indulged in pleasure without satisfaction—petty men unable to control their desires, ultimately falling into crime, disrupting the state, and losing their lives, unable to preserve their ranks and stipends. This is what is meant by 'loving them is actually harming them.' You should deeply draw lessons from previous generations to moderate your favor toward Dong Xian, so as to preserve and stabilize his life." The emperor thus gradually became displeased with Wang Jia.
Former Inspector of Liang Province Du Ye, in his capacity as a virtuous and upright person, responded to the policy questions, saying: "I have heard that yang is noble and yin is base—this is the pattern of Heaven. Therefore, although a man may be lowly, he is the yang of his own household; although a woman may be noble, she is still the yin of her state. Hence, the Ritual Classic clarifies the great principle of the three obediences; even with the virtue of a Wenmu, she must still be subordinate to her son. In former times, the Earl of Zheng indulged the desires of his mother Jiang, ultimately leading to the calamity of Shu Duan usurping the state; King Xiang of Zhou was internally threatened by the troubles caused by Queen Hui and suffered the danger of fleeing to Zheng. When the Han dynasty arose, Empress Lü, due to private affection and favor toward her relatives, nearly endangered the state. I observe in private that Your Majesty, frugal in your own person, wishes to begin anew with the empire, yet auspicious omens have not responded; instead, solar eclipses and earthquakes have occurred. Examining the disasters and anomalies in the Spring and Autumn Annals, they used symbols as language. A solar eclipse indicates yang being encroached upon by yin. The Kun hexagram models the earth; it represents earth and mother, with stillness as its virtue. An earthquake is the effect of yin not being still. The divinatory symbols are very clear. How dare I not speak straightforwardly about this matter! In former times, Zengzi asked about the great principle of obeying commands. Confucius said: 'What words are these!' He praised Min Ziqian for observing ritual propriety and not blindly obeying his parents; whatever he did was in accordance with principle, so there was nothing to criticize. Now, all the brothers of the external relatives, whether worthy or not, together serve within the curtains and screens, distributed among various positions. Some control military guards; others lead troops in garrisons. The heart of favor is concentrated on one family, accumulating noble power rarely seen or heard of in the world. Moreover, they have even simultaneously established the offices of Grand Marshal and General. Although the Huangfu clan was strong, and the Three Huan were prominent, when Lu established three armies for them, it did not surpass this! On the day of conferring these offices, a dim solar eclipse occurred. It happened neither before nor after, but precisely at the time of the event. This shows that Your Majesty, being modest, cannot make decisions independently; the directives you receive are not single in source; whatever is spoken is always heeded, whatever is thought is always followed; those with crimes are not punished, and those without merit or ability all receive offices and ranks. The ill effects have gradually accumulated, and fear daily deepens. The fault lies precisely here, intending by this to clearly warn the sacred court. In former times, what poets satirized and the Spring and Autumn Annals criticized had symbols like these, probably not in other things. Looking from the future to the past, one would angrily denounce it. But when it comes to one's own actions, one cannot see oneself, and considers them acceptable—this is the error of planning. I hope Your Majesty will apply utmost sincerity, reflect on the original intention at the start of your reign, examine every matter in accordance with ancient precedents, so as to satisfy the hearts of the empire. Then the common people will all be delighted; the Supreme Emperor and the hundred spirits will withdraw their majesty and anger. Auspicious blessings—what worry is there that they will not be recompensed!"
The emperor again summoned Kong Guang to the Bureau of Official Carriages, inquired about the solar eclipse, and appointed him Grand Master of the Palace, with a salary of two thousand bushels, a Palace Attendant, with a status second only to the Chancellor. Initially, after Wang Mang returned to his fief, he closed his gates and maintained his own conduct. His second son, Wang Huo, killed a servant. Wang Mang sternly reprimanded Wang Huo and ordered him to commit suicide. While in his fief for three years, over a hundred officials and commoners submitted memorials pleading Wang Mang's case. At this time, the virtuous scholars Zhou Hu and Song Chong, in their responses to the policy questions, again deeply pleaded Wang Mang's merit and virtue. The emperor then summoned Wang Mang and Ping'a Hou Wang Ren back to the capital to attend to the Grand Empress Dowager.
Dong Xian took advantage of the solar eclipse anomaly to thwart the plans of Fu Yan and Xifu Gong. On the day of Xinmao, the emperor reclaimed Fu Yan's seal and ribbon, dismissed him, and sent him home.
On the day of Dingsi, the Grand Empress Dowager of the Emperor, Fu, passed away. She was buried jointly in the Wei Mausoleum and was posthumously titled Empress Xiao Yuan Fu.
The Chancellor and the Imperial Clerk reported the crimes of Xifu Gong, Sun Chong, and others. The emperor then dismissed Xifu Gong and Sun Chong from their offices and sent them back to their fiefs. He also dismissed several dozen Palace Attendants, officials of the various departments, and Gentlemen of the Yellow Gate.
Bao Xuan submitted a memorial saying: “Your Majesty serves Heaven as a father, Earth as a mother, and nurtures the people as children. Since ascending the throne, the father has been diminished and unclear, the mother has been shaken, and the children have been in turmoil, spreading rumors and fright. Now a solar eclipse occurs on the three beginnings of the year, month, and day—truly a thing to be feared. Common people on the first day of the first month still fear damaging their vessels; how much more so a solar eclipse! Your Majesty deeply reproaches yourself, avoids the main hall, promotes forthright speech, seeks out faults, dismisses and banishes the relatives by marriage and those around you who occupy positions without merit, summons and appoints Kong Guang as Grand Master of Splendid Happiness, exposes the crimes of Sun Chong and Xifu Gong, removes them from office and sends them back to their fiefs—the multitude rejoices, and none are not delighted. Heaven and the human heart are one; when the human heart is joyful, then Heaven’s intent is relieved. But on the bingxu day of the second month, a white rainbow pierced the sun, and for successive days it was overcast without rain—this is a sign that the world’s remains unresolved, and the people’s resentment and dissatisfaction have not been dispelled. The Attendant and Commandant of the Equipage of the Imperial Carriages, Dong Xian, originally had no kinship connection as thin as a reed membrane; he only advanced himself through flattering looks and sycophantic words. Rewards have been without limit, exhausting the treasury’s stores, combining three residences into one, still considering them too small, and even demolishing the Palace of Cleanliness. Dong Xian’s father and son sit and command the emperor’s envoys; the Superintendent of the Palace Construction Bureau builds residences for them; even the night watchmen receive rewards, and their visits to tombs are always catered by the Grand Provisioner. The tributes and taxes of the world should support one sovereign; now they are all given to Dong Xian’s family—does this accord with Heaven’s will and the people’s wishes! Heaven cannot be long betrayed; treating him so generously actually harms him! If you truly wish to pity Dong Xian, you should apologize to Heaven and Earth for him, and remove the enmity of the world toward him, dismiss him from office and send him back to his fief, return his chariots and possessions to the court. In this way, you can allow him and his father to preserve their lives; otherwise, as the world’s enemy, no one can long remain secure. Sun Chong and Xifu Gong should not remain in their fiefs; they could both be dismissed to make this clear to the world. Further summon He Wu, Shi Dan, Peng Xuan, and Fu Xi, broaden the outlook so the people change their views, thus conforming to Heaven’s intent, establishing great governance, and initiating the beginnings of peace.” The emperor was moved by these great portents, adopted Bao Xuan’s words, summoned He Wu and Peng Xuan, and appointed Bao Xuan as Colonel of the Capital Police.
The emperor, using the pretext of Empress Dowager Fu’s posthumous edict, ordered the Grand Empress Dowager to issue a decree to the Chancellor and the Imperial Secretary, increasing Dong Xian’s fief by two thousand households and granting the fiefs of the Marquises of Kongxiang, Ruchang, and Yangxin. Wang Jia sealed the edict and returned it, and took the opportunity to submit a sealed memorial remonstrating: “I have heard that ranks, stipends, and lands are what Heaven possesses. The ‘Book of Documents’ says: ‘Heaven appoints the virtuous, using five different grades of robes to make their status manifest!’ When a sovereign replaces Heaven in granting ranks, it is especially a matter for caution. Dividing land to grant as fiefs—if the grant is inappropriate, then the people will not submit, and it will disturb the yin and yang qi, and the resulting calamities and illnesses will naturally deepen. Now Your Majesty’s body has long been unwell—this is what makes me, Wang Jia, fearful at heart. The Marquis of Gao’an, Dong Xian, is a minister who gained favor through flattery. Your Majesty has exalted him with the highest rank, enriched him with the utmost wealth, and favored him by impairing the supreme dignity—the sovereign’s authority has already been weakened, and the treasury’s reserves have been exhausted, yet still you fear it is not enough. Wealth is the fruit of the people’s labor; Emperor Xiaowen wanted to build a Dew Terrace, but because he valued the cost of a hundred catties of gold, he restrained himself and did not build it. Now Dong Xian, however, distributes public taxes to bestow private favors, and a single family receives rewards of a thousand catties of gold. Since ancient times, no honored minister has ever done such a thing. When the news spreads to the four directions, people all resent him. A village proverb says: ‘If a thousand people point at you, even without illness, you will die.’ I often feel chilled at heart because of this. Now the Grand Empress Dowager, based on the posthumous edict of the Yongxin Empress Dowager, orders the Chancellor and Imperial Secretary to increase Dong Xian’s fief households and grant fiefs to three marquises—I, Wang Jia, am privately perplexed. Mountain collapses, earthquakes, and solar eclipses occurring on three successive mornings—these are all warnings of yin qi encroaching upon yang qi. Previously, Dong Xian was already enfeoffed twice, and Yan and Shang also changed their fiefs twice. They rely on personal favor to make arbitrary demands; their favor has already been excessively generous, yet they seek without limit, never satisfied—this severely harms the principle of respecting the honored and venerable, and cannot be shown to the world. The harm it causes is extremely grave! When ministers become arrogant, they deceive their sovereign; yin and yang lose their regularity, qi impulses interact and stir, and harm can reach the body. Your Majesty has been long ill without recovery, and the heir has not yet been established. You should consider rectifying all affairs, conform to Heaven’s intent and the people’s hearts, and seek Heaven’s blessing. How can you slight your own person, indulge your will, and not think of Gaozu’s toil and hardship in establishing institutions, intending to pass them on to posterity without end! I have carefully sealed the edict and returned it, not daring to reveal it. It is not that I am greedy for life and fear death and thus fail to act according to the law—I fear that if the world hears of this matter, I dare not impeach myself.”
Initially, the Commandant of the Court, Liang Xiang, tried the case of the Prince of Dongping, Liu Yun. At the time, fewer than twenty days remained in winter, and Liang Xiang suspected that Liu Yun’s case was unjust, involving false confessions. He therefore submitted a memorial requesting that Liu Yun be escorted to Chang’an and handed over to the high officials for retrial. The Prefect of the Masters of Writing, Ju Tan, and the Supervising Secretary, Zongbo Feng, considered this permissible. The emperor thought that Liang Xiang and the others, seeing that the emperor’s body was unwell, had looked on from inside and outside, harbored divided intentions, and hoped that Liu Yun would survive the winter, lacking the will to punish traitors, detest evil, and avenge their lord. He therefore dismissed Liang Xiang and the others from office and reduced them to commoners. Several months later, a general amnesty was granted, and Wang Jia recommended them, saying: “Liang Xiang and the others are all men of talent and conduct. A sage king has the system of weighing merits and forgiving faults. I privately regret the loss of these three men to the court.” When the memorial was submitted, the emperor was displeased. More than twenty days later, when Wang Jia sealed and returned the edict increasing Dong Xian’s fief, the emperor became angry and summoned Wang Jia to the Masters of Writing, interrogating him: “Liang Xiang and the others were previously guilty of disloyalty, and their crimes were manifest. At that time, you yourself impeached them; now you praise them, saying ‘I regret the loss to the court’—why is this?” Wang Jia removed his cap and apologized. The matter was referred to the generals and the officials of the inner court. The Grand Master of Splendid Happiness, Kong Guang, and others impeached him, saying: “Wang Jia has deluded the state and deceived the sovereign, committing great treason. We request that an Intermuncio be sent to summon Wang Jia to the prison of the Commandant of the Court.” The Gentleman Consultant, Gong, and others considered that “Wang Jia’s words are contradictory; he should have his rank and fief stripped and be reduced to a commoner.” The Chief Commandant of the Yongxin Palace, Meng, and others considered that “Wang Jia’s crime should indeed be punished according to law, but to have a great minister with disheveled hair, wearing the cangue, and stripped naked to receive the lash is not the way to honor the state or exalt the ancestral temple.” The emperor did not listen. In the third month, he issued an edict: “Lend the Intermuncio the tally, and summon the Chancellor to the prison of the Commandant of the Court.”
When the envoy arrived, the subordinate officials of the Chancellor's office all wept tears, and together they prepared poison to present to Wang Jia, but Wang Jia refused to take it. The Chief Clerk said, "It is the established custom that generals and chancellors do not face the prison officials to plead their cases; you, Marquis, should commit suicide." The envoy sat upright at the entrance of the office, and the Chief Clerk again stepped forward to present the poison. Wang Jia took the cup containing the poison, dashed it to the ground, and said to his subordinate officials, "I have been fortunate enough to hold the position of the Three Dukes, but in performing my duties, I have failed the state. I ought to be executed in the marketplace to make an example to the myriad people. Is a Chancellor like a child or a woman? How can it be said that I should take poison to kill myself!" Thereupon, Wang Jia donned his official robes, came out to meet the envoy, bowed twice, and accepted the imperial edict. Then he rode in a minor official's cart, removed the canopy, and without his official cap, followed the envoy to the Commandant of Justice. The Commandant of Justice confiscated Wang Jia's Chancellor and Xinfulu Marquis seals and ribbons, bound Wang Jia, and placed him in the Ducal Prison of the Capital. When the Emperor heard that Wang Jia had gone alive to see the officials, he was greatly enraged and ordered the generals below and the five officials of the Two Thousand Bushel rank to jointly interrogate him. The officials questioned Wang Jia, and Wang Jia replied, "Those who conduct trials seek to obtain the truth. I privately observed that when Liang Xiang and others previously tried the case of the Prince of Dongping, they did not consider Liu Yun undeserving of death. They wanted to submit the case to the Dukes and Ministers for deliberation, to show carefulness. I truly saw no evidence of their observing from both sides or fawning on Liu Yun, and later they happened to encounter a general amnesty. Liang Xiang and the others are all good officials. I privately cherished talents for the state and did not deliberately favor these three men." The prison official said, "If that is so, then what crime do you have? You must still have something for which you have failed the state; you would not have been imprisoned without cause." The officials gradually insulted and humiliated Wang Jia. Wang Jia sighed deeply, looked up to heaven, and said, "I have been fortunate enough to serve as Chancellor, but I could not promote worthy men and dismiss the unworthy. Therefore, I have failed the state, and even death would not atone for my offenses." The officials pressed him for the names of the worthy and unworthy. Wang Jia said, "The worthy: the former Chancellor Kong Guang and the former Grand Minister of Works He Wu—I failed to promote them. The evil: the Gaopinghou Dong Xian and his father—they are evil and cunning, disrupting the court—I failed to dismiss them. My crime deserves death, and I die without regret!" Wang Jia was imprisoned for over twenty days, ate nothing, and died vomiting blood.
Soon afterward, the Emperor saw Wang Jia's confession and recalled his words. It happened that the Imperial Censor-in-Chief Jia Yan was dismissed. In the summer, on the day Yimao of the fifth month, Kong Guang was appointed Imperial Censor-in-Chief. In the autumn, on the day Bingwu of the seventh month, Kong Guang was appointed Chancellor and restored to his original fief of Boshanhou. He Wu, the Marquis of Sixiang, was also appointed Imperial Censor-in-Chief. The Emperor then realized that Kong Guang's previous dismissal was not due to his fault, but because a close minister with faults had slandered and harmed Kong Guang. He said, "Fu Jia previously served as a Palace Attendant, slandering and falsely accusing virtuous and benevolent men, defaming high ministers, causing worthy men to lose their positions for a long time. Fu Jia should be dismissed from office, degraded to commoner status, and sent back to his native place." In the eighth month, He Wu was transferred to the post of Former General. On the day Xinmao, the Grand Master of Remonstrance and Glorious Grand Master, Peng Xuan, became Imperial Censor-in-Chief.
The Colonel Director of the Retainers, Bao Xuan, was convicted for insulting the Chancellor, blocking and stopping the envoy, and lacking the etiquette of a subject. His death penalty was reduced by one degree, and he was punished with shaving his head and wearing an iron collar.
The Grand Marshal, Ding Ming, had always respected Wang Jia and felt pity for him because of his death. On the day Yimao of the ninth month, an edict was issued dismissing Ding Ming from office and sending him back to his residence.
In the winter, on the day Renwu of the eleventh month, the former Grand Tutor of Dingtao and Glorious Grand Master, Wei Shang, was appointed Grand Marshal and General of Chariots and Cavalry. On the day Jichou, Wei Shang died.
On the day Gengzi of the twelfth month, the Palace Attendant and Commandant of the Equipage, Dong Xian, was appointed Grand Marshal and General of the Guard. The edict said: "I establish you as a Duke, to serve as a support for the Han dynasty! Exert your heart and strength to rectify all affairs, and indeed hold fast to the Central Way!" At that time, Dong Xian was twenty-two years old. Although he ranked among the Three Dukes, he often served within the palace, managing the affairs of the Imperial Secretariat. The hundred officials reported matters through Dong Xian. Because his father, the Commandant of the Palace Guards, Dong Gong, was not suitable for a position among the Nine Ministers, Dong Gong was transferred to be a Glorious Grand Master with a salary of two thousand bushels. Dong Xian's younger brother, Dong Kuanxin, succeeded Dong Xian as Commandant of the Equipage. All of Dong's relatives served as Palace Attendants, in various offices, and as "Summoned for Court Audiences," receiving favor surpassing that of the Ding and Fu families.
Initially, when Chancellor Kong Guang served as Imperial Censor-in-Chief, Dong Xian's father, Dong Gong, served as a Censor, being Kong Guang's subordinate. When Dong Xian became Grand Marshal, he ranked with Kong Guang among the Three Dukes. The Emperor deliberately let Dong Xian privately visit Kong Guang. Kong Guang had always been respectful and cautious, knowing that the Emperor wished to honor and favor Dong Xian. When he heard that Dong Xian was coming, Kong Guang tidied his cap and robes and waited at the gate. Upon seeing Dong Xian's carriage, he retreated into the residence. When Dong Xian reached the middle gate, Kong Guang entered the inner gate. Only when Dong Xian had alighted from his carriage did he come out, bowing, greeting, and seeing him off with great respect, not daring to use the etiquette of an equal guest. When the Emperor heard of this, he was very pleased and immediately appointed two of Kong Guang's nephews as Remonstrance Grand Masters and Regular Attendants. From then on, Dong Xian's power equaled that of the Emperor.
At that time, the Wang clan of Empress Dowager Cheng's relatives had already declined and was dismissed. Only Wang Quji, the son of the Ping'ehou Wang Tan, served as a Palace Attendant, and his younger brother Wang Hong served as a Regular Palace Attendant. Wang Hong's father-in-law was the General of the Palace Guard, Xiao Xian, the son of the Former General Xiao Wangzhi. Dong Xian's father, Dong Gong, admired Xiao Xian and wanted to seek Xiao Xian's daughter as a wife for his son Dong Kuanxin. He had Wang Hong convey this proposal. Xiao Xian was terrified and dared not agree. He privately said to Wang Hong, "Lord Dong serves as Grand Marshal, and the edict says 'Hold fast to the Central Way.' This is the phrase Yao used when yielding the throne to Shun, not the precedent for the Three Dukes. Elders and those with knowledge are all fearful in their hearts. How can an ordinary family's daughter bear this!" Wang Hong was naturally wise and resourceful. Hearing Xiao Xian's words, he also understood. He then returned and reported to Dong Gong, deeply conveying Xiao Xian's self-deprecating modesty. Dong Gong sighed and said, "How has my family wronged the world, that they should be so feared by others!" He was very displeased. Later, the Emperor held a banquet in the Qilin Hall. Dong Xian and his father and relatives all feasted together. The Palace Attendants and Regular Palace Attendants were all present. The Emperor, having drunk some wine, looked calmly at Dong Xian, smiled, and said, "I wish to emulate Yao yielding the throne to Shun—what do you think?" Wang Hong stepped forward and said, "The world is the world of Emperor Gao, not something Your Majesty possesses! Your Majesty has inherited the ancestral temple; it should be passed down to descendants for endless generations. The imperial enterprise is of utmost importance; the Son of Heaven speaks no jesting words!" The Emperor fell silent, very displeased, and all those around were terrified. Thereupon, the Emperor dismissed Wang Hong, sending him back to the Lang Bureau. After a long time, the Grand Empress Dowager interceded on Wang Hong's behalf, and he was called back. Wang Hong then submitted a memorial admonishing, saying: "I have heard that when a ruler establishes the Three Dukes, it is to emulate the three lights of the sun, moon, and stars. Those who hold the position of the Three Dukes should be worthy men. The Book of Changes says: 'The tripod breaks its leg, overturning the duke's fine food.' This is a metaphor for the Three Dukes being unsuitable men. In former times, Emperor Xiaowen favored Deng Tong, but only made him a Grand Master of the Palace; Emperor Wu favored Han Yan, but only frequently bestowed gifts upon him—neither put them in high positions. Now the Grand Marshal and General of the Guard, Dong Xian, has no merit toward Han, nor any relationship as a member of the imperial clan, nor any good reputation or noble conduct to rectify worldly customs. Promoted within a few years, he now ranks among the Three Dukes, overseeing the palace guard forces. Without merit, he has received a fief; father and sons, brothers have been promoted for no reason; the rewards and gifts have emptied the national treasury. The myriad people are in an uproar, whispering privately on the roads. This truly does not accord with Heaven's intent! In former times, the divine dragon of Bao transformed into a human, giving birth to Bao Si, who threw the Zhou dynasty into chaos. I fear that Your Majesty may incur criticism for errors, and Dong Xian may suffer the calamity of a petty man who does not know when to advance or retreat. This is not a way to set an example for later generations!" Although the Emperor did not follow Wang Hong's words, he appreciated his youthful ambition and did not blame him.
Emperor Xia'ai, the second year of the Yuanshou reign period (Gengshen, 1 BCE)
In the spring, the first month, the Xiongnu chanyu and the great kunmi of Wusun, Yizhimi, both came to court, which the Han court regarded as an honor. At that time, there were altogether fifty states in the Western Regions, and from the yizhang to the generals, chancellors, marquises, and kings, all wore Han seals and ribbons, totaling three hundred and seventy-six men; while states such as Kangju, Da Yuezhi, Anxi, Jibin, and Wuyi, because they were extremely distant, were not included in this number. When they came to present tribute, they were given gifts in return accordingly, but they were not uniformly governed or controlled. Since the Huanglong era, whenever a chanyu came to court, the rewards of brocade, embroidery, and silk wadding were always more generous than the previous time, in order to appease and receive him. The chanyu was received at a banquet, with all the officials present. The chanyu found it strange that Dong Xian was so young and asked the interpreter about it. The emperor had the interpreter reply: "The Grand Marshal is young, but because he is a great worthy, he holds a high position." The chanyu then rose and bowed, congratulating the Han court for having obtained a worthy minister. At that time, because the emperor needed to perform a ritual of suppression against the direction of the Taisui star, he had the chanyu lodged in the Putao Palace of the Shanglin Imperial Park, telling him that this was a special mark of respect. When the chanyu learned the truth, he was very displeased.
Summer, the fourth month, on the renchen day, there was a solar eclipse.
Fifth month, on the jiazi day, the offices and duties of the Three Dukes were formally established. Grand Marshal and Colonel of the Palace Guard Dong Xian became Grand Marshal; Chancellor Kong Guang became Grand Minister over the Masses; Imperial Secretary Peng Xuan became Grand Minister of Works and was enfeoffed as Marquis of Changping.
Sixth month, on the wuwu day, the emperor died in the Weiyang Palace.
The emperor saw that during the reign of Emperor Cheng, ranks, emoluments, and power had slipped away from the royal house. After he ascended the throne, he repeatedly executed high ministers, wishing to strengthen the sovereign’s authority, emulating Emperors Wu and Xuan. However, he trusted fawning flatterers and detested loyal, upright officials, and from this point the foundation of the Han dynasty began to decline.
The Grand Empress Dowager, upon hearing of the emperor’s death, drove to the Weiyang Palace that same day and took possession of the imperial seal and ribbon. She summoned Grand Marshal Dong Xian and received him in the eastern side-hall, asking him about the arrangements for the funeral. Dong Xian was anxious and could not answer; he removed his cap and apologized. The Empress Dowager said: "The new Marquis of Xindu, Wang Mang, previously served as Grand Marshal in escorting the former emperor’s spirit carriage and is familiar with the old precedents. I will have Wang Mang assist you." Dong Xian kowtowed and said: "Excellent!" The Empress Dowager sent a messenger to gallop and summon Wang Mang. She issued an edict to the Imperial Secretary: all tally slips for mobilizing troops, memorials from officials, the Palace Attendants of the Yellow Gate, and the Rapid as Tigers guards were all to be placed under Wang Mang’s control. Wang Mang, following the Empress Dowager’s intent, had the Imperial Secretary impeach Dong Xian for not personally attending to the emperor’s medicine during his illness, and forbade Dong Xian from entering the Sima Gate of the palace. Dong Xian, not knowing what to do, went to the palace gate, removed his cap, and bared his feet to apologize. On the jisi day, Wang Mang sent an Intermuncius with the Empress Dowager’s edict to announce at the palace gate: "Dong Xian is young and has not experienced affairs; serving as Grand Marshal does not accord with the people’s wishes. His Grand Marshal seal and ribbon are to be taken back, and he is dismissed to return home!" That same day, Dong Xian and his wife both committed suicide. His family was greatly frightened and buried him that night. Wang Mang suspected that he was only feigning death. The relevant office submitted a request to open Dong Xian’s coffin and send him to the prison for examination, and then his corpse was buried in the prison. The Grand Empress Dowager issued an edict: "The high ministers and officials are to recommend someone who can serve as Grand Marshal." Wang Mang had previously been Grand Marshal but resigned to avoid the Ding and Fu clans; everyone considered him worthy, and he was also a close relative of the Grand Empress Dowager. From Grand Minister over the Masses Kong Guang down, the entire court recommended Wang Mang. Only Former General He Wu and General of the Left Gongsun Lu discussed the matter together, saying: "In the past, during the reigns of Emperors Hui and Zhao, the consort clans Lü, Huo, and Shangguan held power, nearly endangering the state. Now, Emperors Cheng and Ai have had no heirs for two successive generations. It is precisely the time to select a young lord from among the close relatives, and we should not let ministers from the consort clan hold power. We should let close and distant relatives alternate, which would benefit the state." Therefore, He Wu recommended Gongsun Lu as suitable for Grand Marshal, and Gongsun Lu also recommended He Wu. On the gengshen day, the Grand Empress Dowager personally appointed Wang Mang as Grand Marshal, concurrently overseeing the affairs of the Imperial Secretary.
The Grand Empress Dowager and Wang Mang discussed the matter of establishing an heir. The Marquis of Anyang, Wang Shun, was Wang Mang’s cousin. This man was upright in conduct and was trusted and beloved by the Grand Empress Dowager. Wang Mang reported and had Wang Shun appointed General of Chariots and Cavalry. Autumn, the seventh month, Wang Mang sent Wang Shun and Grand Herald Zuo Xian, holding tally slips, to welcome the Prince of Zhongshan, Liu Jizi, to come as the heir.
Wang Mang further reported to the Grand Empress Dowager and issued an edict to the relevant departments: "The Empress Dowager previously, together with her younger sister Consort Zhao, monopolized the emperor's favor, banned the rear palace, and cruelly harmed and extinguished the imperial heirs. She is demoted to the status of Empress Xiaocheng and relocated to the Northern Palace." Also, because the Dowager of Dingtao and the Marquis of Kongxiang, Fu Yan, conspired together, turned their backs on grace, forgot their origins, acted arrogantly and without restraint, and plotted rebellion, Empress Xiaoaide was demoted and sent to the Gui Palace. The Fu and Ding clans were all stripped of their offices and ranks and sent back to their original commanderies. Fu Yan, along with his wife and children, was exiled to Hepu. Only an edict was issued praising Fu Xi, saying: "The Marquis of Gaowu, Fu Xi, is naturally upright and sincere, and his discussions are loyal and straightforward. Although he is related by kinship to the late Dowager of Dingtao, he never catered to her whims or followed evil, steadfastly maintaining his integrity. For this reason, he was expelled back to his fief. Does not the Zuo Zhuan say, 'Only after the weather turns cold does one know that the pine and cypress are the last to wither'? Let Fu Xi return to Chang'an, be ranked as a Specially Advanced, and attend court regularly." Although Fu Xi was outwardly praised and rewarded, inwardly he felt isolated, anxious, and fearful; later, he was again sent back to his fief, where he lived out his days and died. Wang Mang further demoted the title of Dowager Fu to "Mother of King Gong of Dingtao" and Dowager Ding to "Consort Ding." Wang Mang further memorialized, saying that the father and son of Dong Xian were arrogant and unrestrained, extravagant and overstepping their bounds. He requested that their property be confiscated for the state, and that all those who had obtained office through Dong Xian be dismissed. Dong Xian's father, Dong Gong, and younger brother, Dong Kuanxin, along with their families, were exiled to Hepu. His mother was separately sent back to her original commandery, Julu. The common people of Chang'an were jubilant and clamorous, going to Dong Xian's residence to wail in mourning, almost taking the opportunity to loot and steal. The government sold off the Dong family's property, totaling 4.3 billion coins. Zhu Yi of Pei Commandery, a subordinate official whom Dong Xian had favored, impeached himself, left the Grand Marshal's office, purchased a coffin and burial clothes, gathered Dong Xian's corpse, and buried him. When Wang Mang heard of this, he killed Zhu Yi on other charges. Because the Grand Minister of Ceremonies, Kong Guang, was a renowned Confucian scholar who had served three emperors and was respected by the Empress Dowager and trusted by the empire, Wang Mang treated him with great deference. He promoted Kong Guang's son-in-law, Zhen Han, to serve as Palace Attendant and Chief Commandant of the Equipage. For all those he disliked, Wang Mang would fabricate crimes, draft impeachment memorials, have Zhen Han take them to Kong Guang, and use the Empress Dowager's authority to subtly pressure Kong Guang. Kong Guang, always cautious and fearful, did not dare fail to submit the memorials; Wang Mang would then report to the Empress Dowager, who always approved them. Consequently, He Wu and Gongsun Lu were impeached for mutually recommending each other, and both were dismissed from office, with He Wu returning to his fief. Further, Dong Hong, the son of Dong Xian, the Marquis of Gaochang, was impeached because his father was a treacherous person, and his title was stripped. Further, the Grand Administrator of Nan Commandery, Wu Jianglong, was impeached for, when he was Grand Administrator of Ji Province, presiding over the case of Empress Feng of Zhongshan, falsely accusing and harming innocent people. The Marquis of Guannei, Zhang You, was impeached for falsely accusing flesh and blood relatives. The Grand Servitor of the Palace, Shi Li, and the Grand Administrator of Taishan, Ding Xuan, were impeached for framing people to death. The Grand Administrator of Henei, Zhao Chang, was impeached for slandering Zheng Chong. These men, fortunate to have encountered an amnesty, should not be allowed to serve in the Central Region; they were reduced to commoner status and exiled to Hepu. The Zhongshan case had originally been personally adjudicated by Shi Li and Ding Xuan, and it was only that Wu Jianglong had jointly signed the memorial. When Wang Mang was young, he had admired Wu Jianglong and wanted to associate with him, but Wu Jianglong was not very close to him, so Wang Mang used this matter to push him aside. The Marquis of Hongyang, Wang Li, was the younger brother of the Empress Dowager. Although he held no office, Wang Mang, because he was his uncle, feared him inwardly, afraid that Wang Li might casually speak to the Empress Dowager, preventing him from acting arbitrarily. He then had Kong Guang memorialize Wang Li's crimes: "Previously, knowing that the Marquis of Dingling, Chunyu Zhang, had committed great crimes of treason, he repeatedly accepted his bribes and spoke on his behalf, misleading the court. Later, he claimed that the illegitimate child of the government slave woman Yang Ji was an imperial prince. The public discussion said: 'The young ruler of the Lü clan has appeared again.' This caused turmoil and suspicion throughout the empire, making it difficult to enlighten later generations and achieve meritorious deeds for an infant. I request that Wang Li be sent back to his fief." The Empress Dowager did not consent. Wang Mang said: "Now the Han dynasty is in decline, having had no heirs for several generations. The Empress Dowager alone governs on behalf of the young ruler. This is truly a cause for fear. Exerting every effort to be impartial and to walk ahead of the empire is still not enough to ensure compliance. Now, if we go against the consensus of the ministers for the sake of private favor, then the officials will become corrupt and perverse, and chaos will begin from this. It is appropriate to send him back to his fief temporarily, and after things have settled, summon him again." The Empress Dowager, left with no choice, sent Wang Li back to his fief. The means Wang Mang used to coerce and pressure officials, both high and low, were all of this type.
Consequently, those who attached themselves to and obeyed Wang Mang were promoted, while those who opposed and resented him were executed or eliminated. He made Wang Shun and Wang Yi his confidants, Zhen Feng and Zhen Han in charge of adjudicating cases, Ping Yan in charge of confidential affairs, Liu Xiu in charge of documents and statutes, and Sun Jian his claws and teeth. Zhen Feng's son, Zhen Xun, Liu Xiu's son, Liu Fen, Cui Fa of Zhuo Commandery, and Chen Chong of Nanyang all gained Wang Mang's favor due to their talents. Wang Mang, outwardly stern and speaking in a righteous manner, would, when he wished to do something, slightly hint at his intentions, and his partisans would, following his intent, publicly memorialize it. Wang Mang would then kowtow and weep, firmly declining and yielding, thus on the one hand deluding the Empress Dowager, and on the other demonstrating his sincerity to the multitude.
In the eighth month, Wang Mang again reported to the Grand Empress Dowager, demoting Empress Xiaocheng and Empress Xiaoai to commoner status and sending them to their respective imperial mausoleums. On that day, both of them committed suicide.
The Grand Minister of Works, Peng Xuan, because Wang Mang was monopolizing power, submitted a memorial saying: "The Three Dukes support the ruler like the three legs of a tripod; if one leg is not capable, it will overturn and ruin the excellent fruit. Your subject is of shallow natural endowment, old and senile, frequently ill in bed, and my spirit is confused and forgetful. I am willing to hand over the seal and ribbon of the Grand Minister of Works and Marquis of Changping, and request permission to retire and return to my village, to await being cast into a ditch." Wang Mang reported to the Empress Dowager, who issued an edict dismissing Peng Xuan from office and sending him back to his fief. Wang Mang resented Peng Xuan for requesting retirement, so he did not bestow upon him gold, a comfortable carriage, or a team of four horses. Peng Xuan lived in his fief for several years and then died.
Ban Gu commented: Xue Guangde preserved the honor of retiring in old age. Ping Dang hesitated and felt shame. Peng Xuan stopped when he saw danger. They were different from those who, in their anxiety, feared losing their positions. On the day of Wuwu, the General of the Right, Wang Chong, became Grand Minister of Works. The Grand Master of the Palace Attendants of Brilliant Happiness, Ma Gong of Donghai, became General of the Right. The Left Assistant and Palace Attendant General of the Household, Zhen Feng, became Grand Master of the Palace Attendants of Brilliant Happiness.
On the day of Xinyou, the ninth month, the King of Zhongshan ascended the imperial throne. A general amnesty was granted to the empire.
Emperor Ping was then nine years old. The Grand Empress Dowager held court and governed. The Grand Marshal, Wang Mang, managed the court affairs. All the hundred officials coordinated their duties and listened to Wang Mang's orders. Wang Mang's power grew daily stronger. Kong Guang, worried and fearful, did not know what to do and submitted a memorial requesting retirement. Wang Mang reported to the Empress Dowager, saying that the emperor was young and should have a tutor. Thereupon, Kong Guang was transferred to be the emperor's Grand Tutor, ranked among the Four Pillars. He was given the additional office of Palace Attendant, and was put in charge of the palace guard and supplies, managed the gates of the various palace offices, and inspected the imperial clothing and food. Ma Gong was appointed Grand Minister of Ceremonies, and Zhen Feng was appointed General of the Right. Winter, tenth month, on the day of Renyin, Emperor Xiaoai was interred in the Yiling Mausoleum.
Emperor Xiaoping, Part One
Emperor Xiaoping, Part One, First Year of the Yuanshi Era (Xinyou, 1 AD)
In the spring, the first month, Wang Mang hinted to the governor of Yi Province, ordering him to have barbarians from beyond the border claim to be the Yueshang tribe, who, after multiple translations, presented one white pheasant and two black pheasants. Wang Mang reported to the Grand Empress Dowager and issued an edict to offer the white pheasant in the ancestral temple. Thereupon, the various officials vigorously praised Wang Mang’s merit and virtue, asserting that he had brought about the auspicious omen of the white pheasant seen in the time of King Cheng of Zhou, and that since the Duke of Zhou had received a title during his own lifetime in the Zhou dynasty, Wang Mang should be granted the title of Duke of Anhan, with an increase in fief households, rank, and territory. The Grand Empress Dowager issued an edict ordering the Imperial Secretariat to handle the matter in detail. Wang Mang submitted a memorial saying: “I, together with Kong Guang, Wang Shun, Zhen Feng, and Zhen Han, jointly formulated the great plan; now I wish only to list the merits and rewards of Kong Guang and the others, and set aside Wang Mang, not allowing me to be included with them.” Zhen Han reported to the Grand Empress Dowager, who issued an edict saying: “‘Be neither partial nor partisan, and the kingly way is broad and level.’ You have the merit of stabilizing the ancestral temple; you cannot be concealed or left unrecognized because of kinship. Do not decline!” Wang Mang again submitted a memorial firmly declining several times, claiming illness and not rising. Attendants reported to the Grand Empress Dowager: “It would be appropriate not to go against Wang Mang’s intentions; only list the merits of Kong Guang and the others, and then Wang Mang will rise.” On the day _bingchen_ of the second month, the Grand Empress Dowager issued an edict: “Appoint the Grand Tutor, Marquis of Boshang, Kong Guang, as Grand Preceptor; the General of Chariots and Cavalry, Marquis of Anyang, Wang Shun, as Grand Guardian; both are to have their fiefs increased by ten thousand households. The General of the Left, Supervisor of the Household, Zhen Feng, is to be Junior Tutor, enfeoffed as Marquis of Guangyang. All are granted the positions of the Four Advisors. The Attendant-in-Ordinary, Chief Commandant of the Equipage, Zhen Han, is enfeoffed as Marquis of Chengyang.” After the four men received their rewards, Wang Mang still did not rise. The various officials again submitted a memorial: “Although Wang Mang is able to practice restraint and modesty, the court should nevertheless bestow honors, grant rewards in due time, make clear the importance of the foremost merit, and not let the hundred officials and the people be disappointed!” The Grand Empress Dowager then issued an edict: “Appoint the Grand Marshal, Marquis of Xindu, Wang Mang, as Grand Tutor, in charge of the affairs of the Four Advisors, with the title of Duke of Anhan, and increase his fief by twenty-eight thousand households.” Thereupon, Wang Mang showed a fearful expression, reluctantly rose, accepted the titles of Grand Tutor and Duke of Anhan, but declined the increased fief, saying: “I wish to wait until every household among the people is prosperous before adding the reward.” The various officials again argued, and the Grand Empress Dowager issued an edict: “The Duke himself expects the people’s households to be prosperous; therefore, I follow your wish, ordering your salary and rewards to be doubled. When the people’s households are all prosperous, the Grand Minister of Agriculture and the Grand Minister of Works will report the matter.” Wang Mang again declined and did not accept, but instead proposed to reward and honor the imperial clan and the various officials. He established the former Crown Prince of Dongping, Liu Yun’s son, Liu Kaiming, as king; he also established the grandson of the former Prince Xiao of Dongping, Liu Chengdu, as King of Zhongshan, to serve the line of Prince Xiao; he enfeoffed thirty-six men, including Liu Xin, the great-grandson of Emperor Xuan of Han, as marquises; twenty-five men, including the Grand Coachman Wang Yun, were granted the title of Marquis of the Interior. He also ordered that if a feudal prince, duke, marquis, or marquis of the interior had no son but had a grandson or a son from the same mother’s brother, such could be established as heir; for those in the imperial clan whose kinship ties had not been exhausted but who had been cut off due to crimes, their kinship ties were to be restored; for those in the empire with a salary of two thousand bushels or above who retired due to old age, they were to be given one-third of their original salary for life. Down to commoners and widowers and widows, benevolent policies were implemented without exception.
Having already pleased the officials and people, Wang Mang also wished to act arbitrarily. Knowing that the Grand Empress Dowager was old and weary of state affairs, he hinted to the high officials to submit a memorial saying: “Previously, officials promoted by merit to the rank of two thousand bushels, as well as the outstanding talents and extraordinary officials recommended by the provinces and departments, have mostly not been competent. They should all come to pay respects to the Duke of Anhan. Moreover, the Grand Empress Dowager is advanced in years and should not personally handle minor matters.” This led the Grand Empress Dowager to issue an edict: “From now on, only matters of enfeeoffment are to be reported to me; other affairs are to be decided and handled by the Duke of Anhan and the Four Advisors. When provincial governors, officials of two thousand bushels, and outstanding talent officials first take office and present their reports, they are to be introduced and brought to a nearby office to respond to the Duke of Anhan, who will examine their former posts and inquire about their new duties, to ascertain their competence.” Thereupon, Wang Mang received and questioned each one in turn, secretly showing favor, generously giving gifts, and for those who did not meet his wishes, he publicly memorialized to dismiss them from their posts. His power thus equaled that of the sovereign.
The office of Xihe was established, with a salary of two thousand bushels.
Summer, the fifth month, on the day _dingsi_, the first day of the month, there was a solar eclipse. A general amnesty was granted to the empire. From the high officials down, each recommended one person of solid integrity and straightforwardness who could speak frankly in remonstrance.
Wang Mang, fearing that the emperor’s maternal relatives, the Wei clan, would seize his power, reported to the Grand Empress Dowager: “Formerly, when Emperor Ai ascended the throne, he turned his back on proper obligations, honored his own maternal relatives, the Ding and Fu clans, thus disturbing the state and nearly endangering the altars of soil and grain. Now the emperor is young, and moreover, he has inherited the great lineage as the successor of Emperor Cheng. It is fitting to make clear the principle of unity, to serve as a warning from past events and as a model for later generations.” In the sixth month, he dispatched Zhen Feng to carry the seal and ribbon, and on the spot, he invested the emperor’s mother, Wei Ji, as Queen Dowager of Zhongshan. He granted the emperor’s maternal uncles, Wei Bao and Wei Bao’s younger brother Wei Xuan, the title of Marquis of the Interior. He granted the emperor’s three younger sisters the title of Lady, and all were to remain in Zhongshan, not allowed to come to the capital.
The Meritorious Official of Fufeng, Shentu Gang, in a straightforward policy response, said: “I have heard that when King Cheng was young, the Duke of Zhou acted as regent, listened to remonstrances, treated the worthy with courtesy, balanced power and dispensed favor, his actions conforming to heaven and earth, his measures without error; yet, close at hand, the Duke of Shao was displeased, and far away, the many feudal lords spread rumors. Now the sage ruler has just left infancy; since his accession, his close kin have been separated, his maternal relatives cut off, and affectionate feelings cannot reach them. Moreover, the Han dynasty’s institutions, though employing the worthy and talented, also bring in marital relatives, intermingling the close and distant to block suspicions—this is truly the way to stabilize the ancestral temple and value the altars of soil and grain. It would be appropriate to quickly dispatch an envoy to summon the Queen Dowager of Zhongshan, place her in a separate palace, allow her to attend court at the proper times, and also summon the Feng and Wei clans, assigning them idle posts, enabling them to bear arms and personally serve as guards, to check the sprouts of disaster. Above, this can stabilize the altars of soil and grain; below, it can preserve the tutors and guardians.” Wang Mang had the Grand Empress Dowager issue an edict saying: “What Shentu Gang says deviates from the classics, engages in reckless discussion, and violates the great principles.” He dismissed him from office and sent him back to his home village.
On the day _bingwu_, the eighth-generation descendant of the Duke Qing of Lu, Gongzi Kuan, was enfeoffed as Marquis of Baolu, to maintain the sacrifices to the Duke of Zhou; the great-grandson of the Marquis of Baocheng, Kong Ba, Kong Jun, was enfeoffed as Marquis of Baocheng, to maintain the sacrifices to Confucius.
An edict was issued: “Women prisoners in the empire who have already been sentenced are to be released and sent home, paying a mountain-hiring fee of three hundred cash per month. Chaste women are to be honored, one per village. The thirteen subordinate officers of the Grand Minister of Agriculture are each to take charge of one province, encouraging agriculture and sericulture.”
Autumn, the ninth month, a general amnesty was granted to prisoners in the empire.
The first year of the Yuanshi era of Emperor Xiaoping (the year _renxu_, AD 2).
Spring, the state of Huangzhi presented a rhinoceros. Huangzhi was in the Southern Sea, thirty thousand _li_ from the capital. Wang Mang wished to display his majesty and virtue, so he generously bestowed gifts on its king, causing him to send an envoy to present tribute.
The commandery of Yuexi reported that a yellow dragon was swimming in the river. The Grand Preceptor, Kong Guang, the Grand Minister of Agriculture, Ma Gong, and others all praised, saying: “Wang Mang’s merit and virtue are comparable to the Duke of Zhou; this should be reported in the ancestral temple.” The Grand Minister of Agriculture, Sun Bao, said: “The Duke of Zhou was the highest sage, the Duke of Shao was a great worthy; yet there were still those who were displeased, recorded in the classics, and neither harmed the other. Now wind and rain are not timely, the people are insufficient; for every matter, the various officials echo in unison—could it be that there is nothing that is not good?” At that time, the high officials all changed color in fear. Zhen Han immediately stopped the discussion on imperial orders. It happened that Sun Bao sent an official to welcome his mother; his mother fell ill on the road and stayed at his younger brother’s house; he sent only his wife and son. The Director of the Imperial Secretariat, Chen Chong, impeached Sun Bao, and the matter was handed over to the Three Dukes for immediate interrogation. Sun Bao replied: “I am seventy years old, old and confused; the kindness of support has diminished, and I cared for my wife and children, as stated in the memorial.” For this, Sun Bao was dismissed from office and died at home.
The emperor’s name was changed to Liu Kan.
On the guiyou day of the third month, Grand Minister of Works Wang Chong resigned due to illness to avoid Wang Mang. In summer, on the dingyou day of the fourth month, General of the Left Zhen Feng became Grand Minister of Works, General of the Right Sun Jian became General of the Left, and Superintendent of the Imperial Household Zhen Han became General of the Right. Liu Ruyi, a son of the great-grandson of King Xiao of Dai, was enfeoffed as King of Guangzong; Liu Gong, the Marquis of Xuyi and grandson of King Yi of Jiangdu, was enfeoffed as King of Guangchuan; and Liu Lun, a great-grandson of King Hui of Guangchuan, was enfeoffed as King of Guangde. The descendants of the great ministers who had rendered outstanding service since the rise of the Han dynasty, including Zhou Gong and others, were successively enfeoffed as marquises or marquises within the passes, totaling one hundred and seventeen people. There was a great drought in the commanderies and kingdoms, with locust plagues; Qing Province was especially severe, and the common people fled. Wang Mang reported to the Grand Empress Dowager that she should wear coarse silk garments and slightly reduce her meals to demonstrate this to the world. Wang Mang then submitted a memorial offering to contribute one million cash and thirty qing of fields, to be handed over to the Grand Minister of Agriculture to help supply the poor. Thereupon, the high ministers all admired and imitated him; altogether, two hundred and thirty people offered fields and houses, which were distributed to the poor according to population. In the city of Chang’an, five wards were built, with two hundred districts of houses, to house the poor. Wang Mang led the group of ministers to submit a memorial to the Grand Empress Dowager, saying: “Thanks to Your Majesty’s virtuous grace, recently the wind and rain have come at the proper times, sweet dew has descended, divine mushrooms have grown, and auspicious plants like the mingjia, zhucao, and jiahe have all appeared together. We hope Your Majesty will restore the usual attire of an emperor and the regular meals of the Imperial Kitchen, so that your subjects may each fulfill their joy and complete their offerings!” Wang Mang also had the Grand Empress Dowager issue an edict, not permitting this. Whenever there were floods or droughts, Wang Mang would eat only vegetables. Those around him reported this to the Grand Empress Dowager, who sent an envoy with an edict to Wang Mang, saying: “I hear that you are eating vegetables, deeply concerned for the people. Now that the autumn harvest is fortunately abundant, you should eat meat at the proper times and cherish your body for the state!”
In the sixth month, two meteorites fell in Julu Commandery.
Guanglu Gong Sheng of Chu and Grand Palace Grandee Bing Han of Langya both requested retirement because Wang Mang was monopolizing power. Wang Mang had the Grand Empress Dowager issue an edict by decree, saying: “I cannot bear to trouble you, great officers, with the affairs of office. You should cultivate your persons and uphold the Way, to end your years in honor.” They were both given generous gifts and sent away.
Mei Fu knew that Wang Mang would surely usurp the Han throne. One day, he abandoned his wife and children and left; no one knew where he went. Later, someone saw Mei Fu in Kuaiji; he had changed his name and become a gatekeeper in the market of Wu.
In autumn, on the wushen day of the ninth month, which was the last day of the month, a solar eclipse occurred, and all prisoners in the empire were pardoned.
The Colonel of the Palace Garrison, Chen Hou, was sent to persuade the great bandit Cheng Zhong and over two hundred others; they all came out voluntarily, and were sent back to their home districts to be registered and perform labor service. Cheng Zhong was relocated to Yunyang and granted public fields and a house.
Wang Mang wanted to use the utmost of his majesty and virtue to please the Grand Empress Dowager, differing from before. He therefore hinted to the shanyu, causing the shanyu to send Wang Zhaojun’s daughter, Xubu Juzi Yun, to serve in the palace of the Grand Empress Dowager, and the gifts bestowed were extremely generous.
In the Later Kingdom of Jushi, there was a new road leading to the Jade Gate Pass, which was somewhat shorter. Xu Pu, the Commandant of the Wuji, wanted to open this road. The King of Later Jushi, Guju, thought that this road would pass through his territory and require him to supply passing envoys, which he found inconvenient. Xu Pu wanted to first clearly demarcate the boundary, then report to the court, so he summoned Guju to give testimony. Guju refused, and Xu Pu imprisoned him. Guju’s wife, Gu Zizou, said to Guju: “Previously, the King of Former Jushi was killed by the Protectorate’s Colonel. Now you have been imprisoned for a long time; you will surely die. It would be better to surrender to the Xiongnu!” Guju immediately rode out of Gaochang Fortress and fled to the Xiongnu.
Furthermore, the King of Quhulai, Tangdou, repeatedly fought with the Red Water Qiang. Tangdou could not prevail and appealed urgently to the Protectorate, but the Protector Dan Qin did not rescue him in time. Tangdou was in dire straits and, resenting Dan Qin, held out to the east at the Jade Gate Pass. The gatekeeper would not let him through, so he led his wife, children, and over a thousand of his people, fleeing to surrender to the Xiongnu. The shanyu accepted them and settled them in the territory of the Left Luli King, then sent an envoy to report to the court, saying: “Your servant has respectfully received them.” An edict was issued sending Zhonglang General Han Long and others as envoys to the Xiongnu to rebuke the shanyu. The shanyu kowtowed and apologized, arrested the two chieftains, and handed them over to the Han envoys. Another edict was issued for Zhonglang General Wang Meng to wait at the E’dunu border in the Western Regions. The shanyu sent people to escort them and took the opportunity to request that their crimes be pardoned. The envoys reported this to the court. Wang Mang did not agree, and an edict was issued summoning the kings of the various states of the Western Regions, drawing up troops in formation, and executing Guju and Tangdou to make an example of them.
Thereupon, Wang Mang established four prohibitions: Any Han person fleeing into Xiongnu territory, any Wusun person fleeing to surrender to the Xiongnu, any person from the Western Regions bearing Han seals and ribbons who surrendered to the Xiongnu, and any Wuhuan person who surrendered to the Xiongnu were all not to be accepted by the Xiongnu. He sent Zhonglang Generals Wang Jun and Wang Chang, along with Vice Commandants Zhen Fu and Wang Xun, as envoys to the Xiongnu to promulgate these four prohibitions to the shanyu, sealed in a document, handed to him, and ordered him to comply. At the same time, they recovered the sealed document of the previous restrictions established by Emperor Xuan, bringing it back to the court.
At that time, Wang Mang submitted a memorial proposing that people within the Han territory should not take two-character names. He then sent envoys to hint to the shanyu that he should submit a memorial expressing admiration for Han civilization and change to a one-character name, and that Han would surely bestow generous gifts. The shanyu complied and submitted a memorial, saying: “I am fortunate to serve as a vassal and privately delight in the peaceful and enlightened system. My original name was Nangzhiyasi; now I respectfully change my name to ‘Zhi’.” Wang Mang was greatly pleased, reported to the Grand Empress Dowager, sent envoys to reply and instruct the shanyu, and bestowed generous gifts.
Wang Mang wanted to marry his own daughter to the emperor as empress to consolidate his power, so he submitted a memorial, saying: “The emperor has been on the throne for three years, but the position of the empress has not yet been established, and the harem has not yet been filled. In previous troubles in the state, the root cause was the lack of an heir, and the selection of wives did not conform to ritual. I request that the Five Classics be examined and discussed, that the rituals for selecting an empress be formulated, and that the system of the twelve consorts be clarified, to widely seek heirs. Broadly select the descendants of the three ancient dynasties—Xia, Shang, and Zhou—as well as the descendants of the Duke of Zhou and Confucius, and the legitimate daughters of marquises residing in Chang’an.” This matter was referred to the relevant offices, and a list of many women was submitted, among whom many belonged to the Wang clan. Wang Mang feared that his own daughter would have to compete with them, so he immediately submitted a memorial, saying: “I myself am without virtue, and my daughter is of low quality; she is not fit to be selected together with the other women.” The Grand Empress Dowager thought that Wang Mang was extremely sincere, so she issued an edict, saying: “The women of the Wang clan are my maternal relatives; they need not participate in the selection.”
Commoners, Confucian scholars, and officials from the rank of lang and above, who guarded the palace gates submitting memorials, numbered over a thousand each day. The high ministers and grandees either went to the court or prostrated themselves at the gate of the Secretariat, all saying: “The Duke of Anhan (Wang Mang) has such outstanding merit and lofty virtue. Now that an empress is to be established, why should the daughter of the Duke of Anhan be singled out to be excluded? To whom will the hearts of the people under heaven turn! We hope that the Duke of Anhan’s daughter will become the mother of the people!” Wang Mang sent officials from the rank of Chief Clerk and below to go separately and persuade and stop the high ministers and Confucian scholars, but the number of those submitting memorials only increased. The Grand Empress Dowager had no choice but to follow the ministers’ opinion and selected Wang Mang’s daughter. Wang Mang again declared himself, saying: “Broadly select the various women.” The high ministers argued, saying: “No other women should be selected to disturb the position of the principal consort.” Wang Mang then said: “I wish to send my daughter into the palace.”