Book of Han, Volume 36
Comprehensive Mirror for Aid in Government, Volume 044
[Han Record Thirty-Six] From the year dingwei (47 AD) to the year gengshen (60 AD), a total of fourteen years.
Worldly Ancestor, Emperor Guangwu, the Lower Part, Jianwu Twenty-Third Year (dingwei, 47 AD)
Spring, first month: The Man tribes of Nan Commandery rebelled; the court sent General of Martial Might Liu Shang to campaign against them and defeated them.
Summer, fifth month, Dingmao day: Grand Minister of Education Cai Mao died.
Autumn, eighth month, Bingxu day: Grand Minister of Works Du Lin died.
Ninth month, Xinwei day: Chenliu Grand Administrator Wang Kuang was appointed Grand Minister of Education.
Winter, tenth month, Bingshen day: Grand Coachman Zhang Chun was appointed Grand Minister of Works.
The chieftain of the Wuling Man tribes, Shan Dancheng and others, rebelled. The court sent Liu Shang to mobilize over ten thousand soldiers, go up the Yuan River, and enter Wuxi to attack them. Liu Shang underestimated the enemy and advanced deep alone. The Man forces, relying on strategic terrain, intercepted and attacked, and Liu Shang's entire army was annihilated.
Initially, the younger brother of the Xiongnu Chanyu Yu, the Right Luli King Zhiyashi, was next in order to become the Left Worthy King, and after the Left Worthy King, he was to become Chanyu. The Chanyu wanted to pass the position to his own son, so he killed Zhiyashi. Wuzhuliu Chanyu had a son named Bi, who served as the Right Aojian Rizhu King, commanding the southern eight tribes. Bi, seeing Zhiyashi killed, made bitter remarks, saying: "By the order of brothers, the Right Luli King should have succeeded; by the order of sons, I am the eldest son of the former Chanyu, and I should succeed." Thus, he harbored suspicion and fear and rarely attended the gatherings at the royal court. The Chanyu suspected him and sent two Gudu Marquises to supervise and command Bi's troops. When Chanyu Punu succeeded, Bi became even more resentful and disappointed. He secretly sent a Han Chinese named Guo Heng, carrying a map of Xiongnu territory, to the Xihe Grand Administrator to request submission to the interior. The two Gudu Marquises vaguely sensed his intentions. It happened to coincide with the Dragon City sacrifice in the fifth month, and they urged the Chanyu to kill Bi. Bi's younger brother, the Jianjiang King, was in the Chanyu's camp. Hearing of this, he urgently rode to report to Bi. Bi then assembled forty to fifty thousand troops from the eight tribes. When the two Gudu Marquises returned, he intended to kill them. As the Gudu Marquises were nearing, they learned of Bi's plan and fled. The Chanyu sent ten thousand cavalry to attack Bi, but seeing Bi's formidable military strength, they did not advance and withdrew.
This year, the Marquis of Ge, Zhu You, died. Zhu You was simple, honest, and upright, revering Confucianism. As a general, he focused on accepting surrenders and took capturing and pacifying cities as his foundation, not seeking merit from cutting off heads. He also forbade soldiers from plundering the people. The soldiers liked to be unrestrained, so many resented him.
Worldly Ancestor, Emperor Guangwu, the Lower Part, Jianwu Twenty-Fourth Year (wushen, 48 AD)
Spring, first month, Yihai day: A general amnesty was granted.
The leaders of the eight Xiongnu tribes jointly deliberated and established the Rizhu King Bi as the Huhanye Chanyu. They came to the Wuyuan frontier fortress to express submission, willing to serve as an eternal shield to defend against northern enemies. This matter was submitted to the high ministers for discussion. Those who discussed it all said: "The empire has just been pacified; the interior is empty. The true situation of the Yi and Di is hard to distinguish. We cannot agree." Only the Five Offices Central Palace General Geng Guo believed: "We should follow the precedent of the Xiaoxuan Emperor's time and accept them. Let them guard against the Xianbei in the east and resist the Xiongnu in the north, inspiring the four barbarian tribes, and restoring and strengthening the border commanderies." Emperor Guangwu followed his advice.
Autumn, seventh month: The Wuling Man tribes invaded Linyuan. The court sent Intermuncio Li Song and Zhongshan Grand Administrator Ma Cheng to campaign against them, but they could not prevail. Ma Yuan requested to lead the expedition. Emperor Guangwu, pitying his old age, did not agree. Ma Yuan said: "I can still put on armor and mount a horse." Emperor Guangwu had him try. Ma Yuan mounted the saddle and looked around, indicating he could still be of use. Emperor Guangwu smiled and said: "This old man is truly spirited!" He then sent Ma Yuan, leading the Gentlemen of the Household Ma Wu, Geng Shu, and others, commanding over forty thousand men, to campaign against the Five Streams. Ma Yuan said to his friend Du Yin: "I have received great imperial favor. I am old, and my days are passing. I often worry that I might not die for the state. Now, this wish is fulfilled. I will die content. I only fear that the sons of powerful and noble families might be by my side or involved in military affairs. They are hard to coordinate. This alone weighs on my mind."
Winter, tenth month: Xiongnu Rizhu King Bi established himself as the Southern Chanyu and sent an envoy to the court, expressing willingness to act as a vassal and submit as a subject. Emperor Guangwu consulted Langling Marquis Zang Gong about this. Zang Gong said: "The Xiongnu are currently suffering famine, plague, and internal strife. I am willing to lead five thousand cavalry to achieve merit." Emperor Guangwu smiled and said: "A general who always wins is hard to discuss the enemy's situation with. I will think it over myself."
Worldly Ancestor, Emperor Guangwu, the Lower Part, Jianwu Twenty-Fifth Year (jisi, 49 AD)
Spring, first month: The Mo people beyond the Liaodong frontier invaded the border. Grand Administrator Ji Tong induced them to surrender. Ji Tong also used wealth and benefits to pacify and entice the Xianbei Senior Protector Pian He, causing him to bring in other tribes, who came to the border fortress to submit in an endless stream. Ji Tong said: "If you truly want to achieve merit, you should return and attack the Xiongnu, cut off their heads and send them here. Only then can you be trusted." Pian He and his men then attacked the Xiongnu, cutting off over two thousand heads and bringing them to the commandery office. Thereafter, year after year, they attacked each other, always sending heads and receiving rewards. From then on, the Xiongnu weakened, there were no border alarms from enemies, and the Xianbei and Wuhuan all came to pay tribute. Ji Tong was simple, honest, steady, and resolute. He used kindness and trust to pacify the Yi and Di, so they both feared and loved him and were willing to die for him.
The Southern Chanyu sent his younger brother, the Left Worthy King Mo, leading over ten thousand soldiers, to attack the younger brother of the Northern Chanyu, the Aojian Left Worthy King, and captured him alive. The Northern Chanyu was shocked and terrified and retreated over a thousand li. The northern Aojian Gudu Marquis and the Right Gudu Marquis led over thirty thousand of their people to submit to the Southern Chanyu. Third month: The Southern Chanyu again sent an envoy to the court to present tribute, requesting that an envoy be sent to supervise and that a hostage son be sent, restoring the old covenant.
Wushen, the last day of the month: A solar eclipse occurred. Ma Yuan's army reached Linxiang, defeated the Man troops, and beheaded and captured over two thousand men.
Initially, Ma Yuan had once been ill. Tiger Ben Central Palace General Liang Song came to visit him and bowed alone at the foot of the bed. Ma Yuan did not return the greeting. After Liang Song left, Ma Yuan's sons asked: "Liang Bosun is the Emperor's son-in-law, honored and powerful at court. From the dukes and ministers down, no one is not afraid of him. Father, why do you alone treat him without courtesy?" Ma Yuan said: "I am a friend of Liang Song's father. Although he is honored, how can the order of generations be confused?"
Ma Yuan's elder brother's sons, Ma Yan and Ma Dun, both liked to criticize and discuss others and associated with frivolous knights-errant. Ma Yuan, when previously in Jiaozhi, wrote a letter admonishing them, saying: "I want you to hear of others' faults as if hearing your parents' names. Your ears may hear them, but your mouths must not speak them. Liking to discuss others' merits and shortcomings and recklessly comment on current governance and laws is what I detest most. I would rather die than hear that my descendants have such behavior. Long Bogao is honest, cautious, and careful. His mouth has no improper words. He is humble, thrifty, honest, fair, and dignified. I love and respect him, and I hope you will emulate him. Du Jiliang is chivalrous and heroic, good at upholding justice, worrying about others' worries, and rejoicing in others' joys. When his father died, he attracted guests, and people from several commanderies all came. I love and respect him, but I do not want you to emulate him. If you emulate Long Bogao and fail, you can still become a cautious and serious person. This is what is meant by 'carving a swan unsuccessfully, it still resembles a duck.' If you emulate Du Jiliang and fail, you will degenerate into the world's frivolous and shallow sons. This is what is meant by 'painting a tiger unsuccessfully, it turns out like a dog.'" Long Bogao was the Chief of Shandu County, Long Shu. Du Jiliang was the Yueqi Commandant, Du Bao. Both were from the capital region. It happened that Du Bao's enemy submitted a memorial, accusing: "Du Bao behaves frivolously, disturbs the masses, and confuses people. General of the Subduing Waves Ma Yuan, from ten thousand li away, wrote a letter admonishing his nephews, yet Liang Song and Dou Gu associate and collude with him. This will encourage his frivolity and hypocrisy and corrupt and disturb the Chinese realm." After the memorial was submitted, Emperor Guangwu summoned Liang Song and Dou Gu and questioned them. He showed them the accusation and Ma Yuan's admonitory letter. Liang Song and Dou Gu knocked their heads until they bled and were thus spared punishment. Emperor Guangwu issued an edict removing Du Bao from office and promoting Long Shu to be Grand Administrator of Lingling. Liang Song from then on resented Ma Yuan.
When Ma Yuan was campaigning against the Wuling Man tribes, his army encamped at Xiajun. There were two routes to advance: one via Hutou, which was shorter but had treacherous waterways; the other via Chongxian, which was level but had a longer supply line. Geng Shu wanted to take the Chongxian route, but Ma Yuan believed this would waste time and deplete provisions, arguing that it was better to advance on Hutou, seize the enemy's throat, and the rebels at Chongxian would then collapse on their own. He reported this to the court, and the Emperor adopted Ma Yuan's strategy. The army advanced and camped at Hutou, where the rebels held the high ground and guarded the strategic passes. The currents were swift, and boats could not go upstream. It happened that the weather was extremely hot, and many soldiers died from pestilence. Ma Yuan also fell ill, so he dug caves on the riverbank to escape the heat. Whenever the rebels climbed to the high points and shouted war cries, Ma Yuan would drag his ailing legs out to observe. Those around him pitied his unfulfilled ambitions and none failed to weep.
Geng Shu wrote to his elder brother, Geng Yan, the Marquis of Haozhi, saying: “Previously, I submitted a memorial advocating that we should first attack Chongxian. Although grain transport would be difficult, the troops and horses could be put to use, and tens of thousands of soldiers were eager to charge ahead. Now, at Hutou, we cannot advance, the army is frustrated and depressed, just waiting to die—truly a cause for grief and regret! Earlier, when we reached Linxiang, the rebels came to us for no reason. If we had attacked them at night, they could have been wiped out immediately. General Fubo is like a merchant from the Western Regions, stopping at every place he goes, and thus he has failed. Now, as expected, pestilence has struck, just as I predicted.” When Geng Yan received the letter, he memorialized the Emperor. The Emperor then sent Liang Song by relay carriage to reprimand Ma Yuan and to act as interim supervisor of the army. It happened that Ma Yuan died, and Liang Song seized the opportunity to slander him. The Emperor was furious and confiscated Ma Yuan's seal and ribbon of the Marquis of Xinxi.
Earlier, when Ma Yuan was in Jiaozhi, he often ate coix seeds (yi yi ren), which lightened the body and warded off miasma. When his army returned, he loaded a cart with them to bring back. After his death, someone submitted a memorial slandering him, claiming that what he had brought back earlier were actually bright pearls and patterned rhinoceros horns. The Emperor became even more enraged. Ma Yuan's wife and children were terrified and dared not transport his coffin back to the ancestral burial grounds; they hastily buried him outside the west wall of the city. No guests or old friends dared to come and mourn. Ma Yan and Ma Yuan's wife and children bound themselves with ropes of grass and went to the court to plead guilty. The Emperor then showed them Liang Song's memorial, and only then did they learn of the crimes Ma Yuan was accused of. They then submitted petitions pleading their innocence, sending six in succession, with exceedingly sorrowful and earnest words.
Zhu Bo, a former magistrate of Yunyang County from Fufeng, submitted a memorial to the court, saying: “I have observed that the late General Fubo, Ma Yuan, came from the Western Provinces. He admired and yearned for the virtue and righteousness of the sage, traversed dangerous passes and barriers, faced countless perils, and managed affairs in Longxi and Jizhou. His strategies gushed forth like a spring, and his movements were as flexible as a turning compass. Whenever the army acted, it achieved merit; whenever it advanced, it won victories. When he exterminated the Xianqiang, an arrow pierced his calf. When he campaigned in Jiaozhi, he bade farewell to his wife and children. Recently, he marched south and immediately captured Linxiang. The army had already achieved merit, but the task was unfinished when he died. Though the officers and soldiers suffered from pestilence, Ma Yuan did not survive alone. In war, sometimes one succeeds by enduring a long campaign, and sometimes one fails by being too hasty. Deep penetration is not necessarily the best plan, and not advancing is not necessarily a mistake. Is it in human nature to willingly remain long in a desperate situation and not wish to return alive? Ma Yuan served the court for twenty-two years. He went north beyond the passes into the desert, and south across rivers and seas, enduring deadly vapors and dying stiff in the army. His reputation was destroyed, his noble title was cut off, and his fief could not be passed to his descendants. The world does not know his faults, and the masses have not heard the slander against him. His family has shut its doors, and his burial cannot be in the ancestral tomb. Resentment has arisen on all sides, and his clan relatives tremble in fear. The dead cannot defend themselves, and the living have no one to plead for them. I privately feel grief for him! An enlightened ruler should be generous in rewards and sparing in punishments. Gaozu once gave Chen Ping forty thousand jin of gold to sow discord among the Chu forces, without ever asking how the money was used. How then could he have doubted him over minor matters of money and grain! I hope Your Majesty will refer this matter to the high officials, fairly assess Ma Yuan's merits and faults, and decide whether his title should be continued or terminated, so as to calm the debates of the world.” The Emperor's anger gradually subsided.
Earlier, when Zhu Bo was twelve years old, he could recite the Book of Songs and the Book of Documents. He often visited Ma Yuan's elder brother, Ma Kuang, and his speech was elegant. Ma Yuan was then just learning to read and write, and when he saw Zhu Bo, he felt ashamed of his own inferiority. Ma Kuang knew what was on his mind, so he personally poured wine and comforted Ma Yuan, saying: “Zhu Bo is a small vessel that matures quickly; his talent ends here. In the end, he will have to learn from you, so do not be afraid of him.” Zhu Bo was not yet twenty when the Right Fufeng invited him to serve as acting magistrate of Weicheng County. By the time Ma Yuan became a general and was enfeoffed as a marquis, Zhu Bo's office was no more than a county magistrate. Later, although Ma Yuan was honored, he often treated Zhu Bo with old kindness, but also somewhat with contempt and insult. Zhu Bo, on the contrary, grew even closer to him. When Ma Yuan encountered slander, only Zhu Bo remained steadfast in his loyalty to him.
The Gentleman of the Palace, Zong Jun of Nanyang, was supervising Ma Yuan's army. Ma Yuan had already died, and more than half of the soldiers had died from pestilence, while the Man tribes were also starving and exhausted. Zong Jun then discussed with the generals, saying: “Now the road is distant, the soldiers are ill, and we cannot fight. I wish to temporarily borrow the Emperor's authority to summon them to surrender. What do you think?” The generals all prostrated themselves on the ground and dared not respond. Zong Jun said: “A loyal minister, when outside the country, may act on his own if it ensures the state's safety.” Thereupon, he pretended to issue an imperial edict, appointing Fubo's Commandant, Lü Zhong, as acting magistrate of Yuanling County, and ordered Lü Zhong to take the edict into the enemy camp and declare the court's grace and trustworthiness to them, while leading the army behind him. The Man tribes were terrified, and in the tenth month, they jointly beheaded their great chieftain and surrendered. Then Zong Jun entered the enemy camp, dispersed the tribesmen, and sent them back to their commanderies. He established local officials for them and then returned. The various Man tribes were thus pacified. Before Zong Jun reached the capital, he first impeached himself for the crime of falsely issuing an edict. The Emperor praised his merit, welcomed him, rewarded him with gold and silk, and allowed him to visit his ancestral graves on his way home.
In this year, the Wuhuan chieftain Haodan of Liaoxi and others led their tribes to submit to the court. An edict was issued to enfeoff the Wuhuan tribal leaders as marquises, kings, or chieftains, totaling eighty-one men. They were allowed to settle within the borders, distributed among the frontier commanderies, and ordered to attract their kinsmen. They were supplied with clothing and grain, and thus became the Han's scouts, assisting in attacks against the Xiongnu and the Xianbei. At that time, the Ban Biao submitted a memorial saying: “The Wuhuan are by nature frivolous and cunning, fond of banditry and robbery. If they are long indulged without a supervisor, they will certainly plunder the inhabitants again. Merely entrusting them to an official in charge of surrenders may not be enough to control them. In my humble opinion, it would be beneficial to re-establish the Wuhuan Colonel, which would indeed help in attracting and gathering them and reduce the state's border concerns.” The Emperor adopted his advice, and thus began to re-establish the Colonel's office in Ningcheng County of Shanggu Commandery, setting up camp headquarters, and at the same time managing the granting of gifts to the Xianbei and receiving hostages, conducting regular trade markets each season.
In the twenty-sixth year of the Jianwu era of Emperor Shizu Guangwu (Gengxu, AD 50), in the first month, an edict was issued to increase the salaries of all officials. For those with salaries at one thousand shi or above, the amount was reduced compared to the Western Han system; for those at six hundred shi or below, the amount was increased.
Construction began on the Shou Tomb. The Emperor said: "The burials of ancient emperors all used clay figurines, earthenware vessels, wooden chariots, and straw horses, so that later generations would not know the burial sites. Emperor Taizong (Emperor Wen of Han) understood the principles of beginning and end, and Emperor Jing was able to follow filial piety. When the world fell into great chaos, only Baling was preserved intact, enjoying such blessings—was this not excellent! Now the tomb grounds shall not exceed two or three qing in area; do not build up a mountain mound or dig ponds, only ensure drainage. Let later dynasties, after successive changes, see it as an ordinary grave mound." An edict was issued dispatching Zhonglang General Duan Chen and Deputy Colonel Wang Yu as envoys to the Southern Xiongnu, establishing the Chanyu’s tent headquarters eighty li from the western border of Wuyuan Commandery. The envoys ordered the Chanyu to kneel and receive the edict; the Chanyu looked around for a while before kneeling and acknowledging himself a subject. After the ceremony, he had an interpreter tell the envoys: "The Chanyu has newly been established, and indeed feels ashamed before his followers. I hope the envoys will not excessively humiliate him in front of the crowd." An edict allowed the Southern Chanyu to reside in Yunzhong Commandery, and the office of Zhonglang General for the Xiongnu was first established, leading troops to guard and protect him.
In summer, the Northern Xiongnu Wujian Left Virtuous King, captured by the Southern Chanyu, led his followers along with the five Gudu Hou of the Southern Xiongnu, totaling over thirty thousand people, to rebel and defect, leaving the Northern Court three hundred li away and proclaiming himself Chanyu. After more than a month, they daily attacked each other; the five Gudu Hou all died in battle, the Left Virtuous King committed suicide, and the sons of each Gudu Hou each held their troops and defended themselves. In autumn, the Southern Chanyu sent his son to court as a hostage. An edict bestowed upon the Chanyu caps and belts, seal ribbons, chariots and horses, gold, silver, silks and cloth, armor and weapons, and daily-use items. Additionally, twenty-five thousand hu of grain from Hedong Commandery and thirty-six thousand cattle and sheep were transported to supply them. The Zhonglang General was ordered to lead fifty pardoned prisoners and follow the Chanyu to his residence, handling litigation and observing movements. Each year at year’s end, the Chanyu sent envoys to the capital to report, sending a hostage son to court; the Han sent an Usher to return the previous hostage son to the Chanyu’s tent, bestowing upon the Chanyu, his consort, and officials below the Left and Right Virtuous Kings a total of ten thousand bolts of colored silk, which became a regular annual practice. Thus, the people of the eight commanderies—Yunzhong, Wuyuan, Shuofang, Beidi, Dingxiang, Yanmen, Shanggu, and Dai—returned to their homelands. Ushers were dispatched to lead pardoned prisoners respectively, repairing and fortifying city walls, sending back the border people who had been moved inland to their respective counties, all granted resettlement funds, with grain transported and supplied. At that time, the city walls were already in ruins, and everything had to start from scratch; the Emperor then regretted his earlier order to move the border people.
In winter, the sons of the five Gudu Hou of the Southern Xiongnu again led three thousand followers to return south. The Northern Chanyu sent cavalry to pursue and captured all their followers. The Southern Chanyu sent troops to resist but was defeated in battle, so an edict ordered the Chanyu to move to Meiji County in Xihe Commandery. Consequently, Duan Chen and Wang Yu were left in Xihe to guard him, and the Chief Clerk of Xihe was ordered to lead annually two thousand cavalry and five hundred pardoned prisoners to assist the Zhonglang General in protecting the Chanyu, stationed in winter and withdrawn in summer, which became a regular practice. After settling in Xihe, the Southern Chanyu also appointed various tribal kings to assist the Han in guarding and garrisoning the commanderies of Beidi, Shuofang, Wuyuan, Yunzhong, Dingxiang, Yanmen, and Dai, each leading their followers as eyes and ears for the commanderies in reconnaissance and patrol. The Northern Chanyu, fearful and uneasy, returned many of the Han people he had captured to show goodwill, and whenever raiding soldiers reached the southern border, on returning past the watchtowers and outposts, they always apologized, saying: "We are merely attacking the fleeing rebel Wujian Rizhu King, and dare not harm Han people."
Shizu Guangwu Emperor, Jianwu year 27 (Xinhai, 51 CE)
Summer, fourth month, on the Wuwu day, Grand Minister over the Masses Wang Kuang died.
Fifth month, on the Dingchou day, an edict ordered both the Minister over the Masses and the Minister of Works to drop the character "Grand," and changed Grand Commandant of Cavalry to Grand Commandant. The General of Agile Cavalry acting as Grand Commandant Liu Long was dismissed that day; Taipu Zhao Xi was appointed Grand Commandant, and Grand Minister of Agriculture Feng Qin was appointed Minister over the Masses.
The Northern Xiongnu sent envoys to Wuwei to request a peace alliance. The Emperor summoned the high officials to discuss at court, but no decision was reached. The Crown Prince said: "The Southern Chanyu has just submitted, and the Northern Xiongnu fears being attacked, so they listen attentively and comply, eagerly seeking to attach themselves to righteousness. If we now fail to send troops but instead make peace with the Northern Xiongnu, I fear the Southern Chanyu will develop second thoughts, and those who surrender from the North will no longer come." The Emperor considered this correct and told the Grand Administrator of Wuwei not to receive the Northern Xiongnu envoys.
The Marquis of Langling, Zang Gong, and the Marquis of Yangxu, Ma Wu, submitted a memorial saying: "The Xiongnu covet profit and have no sense of ritual or trust; when desperate, they knock their heads and submit, and when settled, they invade and plunder. Now, the Xiongnu’s people and livestock are dying from plague, drought and locusts have left the land barren, and they are exhausted and weak, inferior to a single commandery of the Central Plains. The fate of the Xiongnu, ten thousand li away, hangs on Your Majesty’s hand. Fortune will not come again, and opportunities are easily lost; should we indeed cling to civil virtue and abandon military affairs! Now, order generals to approach the border, offer great rewards, inform Goguryeo, Wuhuan, and Xianbei to attack their left flank, and mobilize the Qiang and Hu of the four western commanderies—Hexi, Tianshui, and Longxi—to attack their right flank. Thus, the destruction of the Northern Xiongnu is but a matter of a few years. We fear that Your Majesty, with compassionate benevolence, cannot bear it, and the counselors hesitate, so that the achievement worthy of a stone inscription for ten thousand generations cannot be established in this sage age!" The edict replied: "The Huangshi Gong Ji says: ‘Softness overcomes hardness; weakness overcomes strength. Abandoning the near to scheme for the distant brings toil but no merit; abandoning the distant to scheme for the near brings ease and results. Therefore, one who devotes himself to expanding territory will waste; one who devotes himself to spreading virtue will grow strong; possessing what one should have brings peace; coveting what others have brings cruelty. The affairs of cruel and destructive rule, even if successful, will surely fail.’ Now, the state lacks good governance, disasters and anomalies continue, the people are fearful and uneasy, each unable to protect themselves—yet we still stir up affairs far beyond the borders! Confucius said: ‘I fear the worry of the Ji Sun lies not in Zhuan Yu.’ Moreover, the Northern Di is still strong, and with agricultural garrisons and border alerts, hearsay reports are often unreliable. If we could truly use half the world’s strength to eliminate this great enemy, would that not be the greatest wish! But if the timing is not right, it is better to let the people rest and recuperate." From then on, no general dared to speak of military campaigns again.
The Emperor consulted Zhao Xi on strategies for long-term peace and order. Zhao Xi requested that the various kings be sent to their fiefs. In winter, the Emperor began sending the King of Lu, Liu Xing, and the King of Qi, Liu Shi, to their fiefs. This year, the Emperor’s maternal uncle, the Marquis of Shouzhang and Gong, Fan Hong, died. Fan Hong was by nature humble, gentle, cautious, and careful. Whenever at court assemblies, he always arrived early, prostrated himself, and waited for discussions; his memorials on matters benefiting the state and people were written in his own hand, and he destroyed the drafts; when asked in public court, he dared not answer openly. His clan was influenced by his example and never violated the law. The Emperor greatly respected him. When his illness became critical, he left a will requesting a simple burial, with no burial goods. He argued that once the inner coffin was buried, it should not be seen again; if it decayed, it would harm the filial son’s heart, and he wished to be buried with his wife in the same mound but separate chambers. The Emperor considered his will excellent, showed the letter to all officials, and said: "Now, if we do not follow the Marquis of Shouzhang’s wishes, we cannot manifest his virtue; moreover, after ten thousand years, I will also take this as a rule."
Shizu Guangwu Emperor, Jianwu year 28 (Renzi, 52 CE)
Spring, first month, on the Jisi day, the King of Lu, Liu Xing, was enfeoffed as King of Beihai; the Lu lands were merged into the Donghai state. Because the King of Donghai, Liu Qiang, had shown great propriety in matters of staying or leaving, the Emperor treated him generously with a large fief, granting him twenty-nine counties as his food revenue, bestowing upon him armored Tiger Guard warriors, standard-bearing cavalry, and sets of bell and chime music, with ceremonies equal to those of the Emperor.
Summer, sixth month, on the Dingmao day, the Dowager of Pei, née Guo, died.
Initially, Ma Yuan’s elder brother’s son-in-law, Wang Pan, was the son of Wang Ren, the Marquis of Ping’e. After Wang Mang was defeated, Wang Pan, possessing vast wealth, became a wandering knight and gained great renown in the region of the Yangtze and Huai Rivers. Later, he traveled to the capital and became close friends with many noble and imperial relatives. Ma Yuan said to his sister’s son, Cao Xun: “The Wang clan is a deposed family. Zishi (Wang Pan’s courtesy name) ought to live in seclusion and keep to himself, yet instead he associates with the powerful in the capital, acts impulsively, and often offends and suffers setbacks. His downfall is inevitable.” A little over a year later, Wang Pan was implicated in a crime and died; Wang Pan’s son, Wang Su, then frequented the residences of various princes. At that time, the prohibitions were still lenient, and all the princes were in the capital, vying to establish reputations and recruit wandering scholars. Ma Yuan said to Sima Lü Zhong: “In the early years of Jianwu, it was said that the empire was being re-founded, and from now on, the realm within the seas should become increasingly stable. But I am only concerned that the various princes of the state have all grown up, while the old precautionary measures have not been established. If they engage extensively with guests and retainers, then a major case will arise. You must be cautious and vigilant!” By this time, someone submitted a memorial accusing Wang Su and others of being descendants of exterminated families, acting as guests of the princes, and worrying that they might exploit the situation to create unrest. It happened that Liu Li, the Marquis of Shouguang and son of the Gengshi Emperor, was favored by the Prince of Pei, bore a grudge against Liu Penzi, and conspired with guests to kill the former Marquis of Wu, Liu Gong. The emperor became enraged; the Prince of Pei was implicated and imprisoned in the imperial prison, only being released after three days. Thereupon, an edict was issued to the commanderies and kingdoms to arrest the guests of the princes, and those implicated and executed numbered in the thousands; Lü Zhong also suffered disaster. As he was dying, he sighed and said: “General Ma is truly a divine man!”
In autumn, the eighth month, on the day of wuyin, Liu Qiang, the Prince of Donghai; Liu Fu, the Prince of Pei; Liu Ying, the Prince of Chu; Liu Kang, the Prince of Jinan; and Liu Yan, the Prince of Huaiyang, first proceeded to their enfeoffed states.
The emperor assembled the ministers in a great meeting and asked: “Who can serve as the tutor for the Heir Apparent?” The ministers, catering to the emperor’s wishes, all said that the Heir Apparent’s maternal uncle, the Zhijinwu and Marquis of Yuanlu, Yin Shi, was suitable. Doctor Zhang Yi said sternly: “Now that Your Majesty has established the Heir Apparent, is it for the Yin clan, or for the empire? If it is for the Yin clan, then Marquis Yin is suitable; if it is for the empire, then one should certainly appoint a worthy talent of the empire!” The emperor praised his words as excellent and said: “To appoint a tutor is to assist the Heir Apparent; now the Doctor is not afraid to correct even me, how much less so the Heir Apparent!” He immediately appointed Zhang Yi as Grand Tutor to the Heir Apparent and appointed Doctor Huan Rong as Junior Tutor, bestowing upon them covered carriages and riding horses. Huan Rong assembled all his students, displayed his carriages, horses, and official seals, and said: “The favor I receive today is due to the power of studying ancient texts—dare we not exert ourselves?”
The Northern Xiongnu sent envoys to present horses and furs as tribute, again requesting a peace alliance, and also requesting the gift of music, and further requesting to lead the various Western Regions’ Hu guests in a joint tribute audience. The emperor issued an edict to the Three Offices to deliberate on the appropriate response. The (Minister over the Masses’ Assistant), Ban Biao, said: “I have heard that Emperor Xiaoxuan decreed to the border commandants and defenders: ‘The Xiongnu are a great state, full of deceit and treachery. In interactions, if one grasps the true situation, one can repel the enemy and turn back their attacks; if one falls into their trap in responding, one will instead be slighted and humiliated.’ Now the Northern Xiongnu, seeing the Southern Chanyu come to submit, fear that their state will be taken from them, so they repeatedly request a peace alliance, and also drive cattle and horses from afar to trade with Han, and frequently send famous kings bearing many tributes—all this is to outwardly display their strength and deceive us. I observe that the heavier their tribute, the more I know their state is weaker; the more frequent their submission and goodwill, the greater their fear. Nevertheless, since we are now unable to aid the Southern Xiongnu, we should not reject the Northern Xiongnu either. The principle of cherishing the distant is that there is no courtesy without requital. I believe it is appropriate to give them some rewards, roughly equivalent to the items they have offered, and the wording of the reply must be proper. I have now drafted a draft and present it along with this: ‘The Chanyu does not forget Han’s grace, recalls the former covenants of his ancestors, and wishes to cultivate friendly relations to cultivate himself and bring peace to his state—his plans are lofty, and we commend him for them! In the past, the Xiongnu experienced many upheavals; Huhanye and Zhizhi became enemies and cut themselves off from imperial grace, yet Huhanye submitted and drew near, his loyalty and filial piety becoming even more evident. When Han eliminated Zhizhi, he thereby preserved his state and passed on his lineage, with sons and grandsons succeeding each other. Now the Southern Chanyu leads his multitudes south, knocks at the frontier passes and submits his fate, considering himself the direct heir of Huhanye, who by order should succeed, but he was deprived of his position due to encroachment, and mutual suspicion and opposition have arisen. He has repeatedly requested the dispatch of generals and troops to return and pacify the northern court; his schemes and strategies are numerous and extend everywhere. But we have considered that these words cannot be believed solely on one side, and also because the Northern Chanyu has presented tribute for successive years, wishing to cultivate friendly relations, we have thus refused and not permitted it, intending to complete the Chanyu’s great righteousness of loyalty and filial piety. Han upholds authority and trust, commands the myriad states, and wherever the sun and moon shine, all are subjects and concubines. For the various barbarians of different customs, righteousness knows no closeness or distance; those who submit are praised and rewarded, those who rebel are executed and punished. The evidence of good and evil is seen in Huhanye and Zhizhi. Now the Chanyu wishes to cultivate friendly relations; his sincerity has been expressed. Why must he suspect and lead the various Western Regions states to all come for tribute and audience! What difference does it make whether the Western Regions states belong to Xiongnu or to Han! The Chanyu has experienced successive years of military turmoil; his state is empty and exhausted. The tribute is barely sufficient to fulfill the rites; why must he present horses and furs! Now we bestow five hundred bolts of variegated silk, one set of a bow case and quiver, and four arrows to the Chanyu; and we also bestow to the Left Gudu Marquis and the Right Luli King, who presented the tribute horses, four hundred bolts of variegated silk each, and one horse-slaying sword each. The Chanyu previously said, “The yu, se, and konghou given by the late emperor to Huhanye are all broken, and I request that they be replaced as appropriate.” We consider that the Chanyu’s state is not yet settled; he is vigorously engaging in military affairs, making warfare his priority. The use of the yu and se is not as good as fine bows and sharp swords, so we did not give them. We do not begrudge small items, but for what the Chanyu appropriately needs, he should report via courier.’” The memorial was entirely adopted and followed.
Shizu Guangwu Emperor, the twenty-ninth year of Jianwu (Gui Chou, 53 AD)
Spring, the second month, on the day of dingsi (the first day of the month), a solar eclipse occurred.
Shizu Guangwu Emperor, the thirtieth year of Jianwu (Jia Yin, 54 AD)
Spring, the second month, the emperor made an eastern tour. The ministers submitted a memorial: “Your Majesty has been on the throne for thirty years; you should perform the Feng and Shan sacrifices at Mount Tai.” The imperial edict said: “Being on the throne for thirty years, the people are filled with resentment. ‘Whom am I deceiving? Am I deceiving Heaven?’ ‘How can Mount Tai be inferior to Lin Fang!’ Why should I defile the records of the seventy-two sovereigns! If any commandery or kingdom sends officials from afar to offer congratulations and extravagantly praise empty beauties, they will surely be punished with the shaving of their heads and sent to cultivate fields.” Thereupon the ministers dared not mention it again.
On the day of jiazi, the emperor arrived in Lu and Ji’nan; in the intercalary month, on the day of guichou, he returned to the palace.
A comet appeared in the Ziwei Palace.
Summer, the fourth month, on the day of wuzi, Liu Yan, the Prince of Zuoyi, was enfeoffed anew as the Prince of Zhongshan.
In the fifth month, a great flood occurred.
Autumn, the seventh month, on the day of dingyou, the emperor arrived in Lu; winter, the eleventh month, on the day of dingyou, he returned to the palace.
Jia Fu, the Marquis of Jiaodong Gang, died. Jia Fu followed on campaigns and was never defeated; many times he broke through encirclements and relieved emergencies alongside the other generals, suffering twelve wounds. Because Jia Fu dared to penetrate deeply, the emperor rarely ordered him on distant expeditions, but admired his bravery and integrity, often keeping him by his side. Thus, Jia Fu lacked independent achievements. Whenever the generals discussed their merits, Jia Fu never spoke, and the emperor always said: “General Jia’s achievements, I know them myself.”
Shizu Guangwu Emperor, the thirty-first year of Jianwu (Yi Mao, 55 AD)
Summer, the fifth month, a great flood occurred.
On the day of guiyou (the last day of the month), a solar eclipse occurred.
A locust plague occurred. Diwu Lun, the (Capital Area Assistant), managed the Chang’an market with fairness and incorruptibility, and the market had no (crooked and evil) illegal acts. Whenever he read imperial edicts, he often sighed and said: “This is a sage ruler; meeting him once would decide great matters.” His colleagues laughed at him and said: “You cannot even persuade your own superior; how can you move the Son of Heaven!” Diwu Lun said: “I have not yet encountered a true confidant; our paths are different.” Later, he was recommended as Filial and Incorrupt and appointed as the medical artisan supervisor for the Prince of Huaiyang.
Shizu Guangwu Emperor, the first year of Zhongyuan (Bing Chen, 56 AD)
In spring, the first month, the Prince of Huaiyang entered the court for an audience, and Diwu Lun, as part of his retinue, was able to participate in the meeting. The emperor inquired of him about governmental affairs, and Diwu Lun responded accordingly, which greatly pleased the emperor. The next day, the emperor specially summoned him to the palace and conversed with him until evening. The emperor said to Diwu Lun, "I have heard that when you served as an official, you once flogged your father-in-law and also did not dine at your cousin's house. Is this true?" Diwu Lun replied, "Your subject has married three times, and each wife had no father. In my youth, I encountered famine and war, and truly did not dare to casually dine at others' homes. Because people consider me foolish, they fabricated such stories." The emperor burst into laughter. He appointed Diwu Lun as the magistrate of Fuyi, but before he could assume the post, he was reappointed as the Grand Administrator of Kuaiji. His governance was clear and benevolent, and the people loved him.
The emperor read the "Hetu Huichang Fu," which said, "The red Liu, in the ninth generation, will meet Heaven's mandate at Mount Tai." Moved by this text, the emperor issued an edict ordering Tiger-Ben General-in-Chief Liang Song and others to examine the apocryphal texts of the "Hetu" and "Luoshu," which mentioned that the ninth generation should perform the fengshan sacrifice in thirty-six instances. Thus, Zhang Chun and others again submitted a memorial requesting the fengshan sacrifice, and the emperor agreed. He ordered the relevant officials to investigate the precedents from the Yuanding era, which stipulated that square stones be used in two layers, with jade seals and gold paste for sealing. The emperor thought that the stonework would be difficult to complete and wanted to use the original fengshan stones from Emperor Wu's time, placing the jade tablets within them. Liang Song argued against this, so the emperor ordered the stoneworkers to use intact green stones, not necessarily requiring the five colors. On the dingmao day, the emperor's carriage set out on an eastern tour. In the second month, on the jimao day, they reached Lu, then proceeded to Mount Tai. On the xinmao day, at dawn, they lit firewood and performed the suburban sacrifice to Heaven south of Mount Tai, with all the spirits accompanying and receiving offerings, using music as in the southern suburban sacrifice ritual. After the ceremony, at the shishi hour, the emperor mounted the imperial carriage and ascended the mountain. After noon, he reached the summit and changed his robes. At the bushi hour, he ascended the altar facing north. The Chief of the Imperial Secretariat presented the jade tablets and jade seal, and the emperor, using a one-cun-two-fen jade seal, personally sealed them. After finishing, the Grand Master of Ceremonies ordered over two thousand cavalrymen to move the stones atop the altar. After the Chief of the Imperial Secretariat deposited the jade tablets, the stones were covered again, and the Chief of the Imperial Secretariat sealed the stone seals with a five-cun seal. The ceremony concluded, and the emperor performed two prostrations. The assembled officials shouted "long live," and then they descended the mountain by the same path. After midnight, the emperor finally reached the foot of the mountain, and the hundred officials did not finish until the next morning. On the jiawu day, the chan sacrifice was performed at Liangyin, offering sacrifices to the Earth Spirit, with Empress Gao as the accompanying spirit, and all the mountains and rivers' spirits following, as in the northern suburban sacrifice ritual of the Yuanshi era.
In the third month, on the wuchen day, Minister of Works Zhang Chun died.
In summer, the fourth month, on the guiyou day, the emperor's carriage returned to the palace. On the jimao day, a general amnesty was declared, and the reign title was changed.
The emperor traveled to inspect Chang'an. In the fifth month, on the yichou day, he returned to the palace.
In the sixth month, on the xinmao day, Grand Coachman Feng Fang was appointed Minister of Works.
On the yiwei day, Minister over the Masses Feng Qin died.
Sweet springs gushed forth in the capital, and red grass grew by the waterside. Various commanderies and kingdoms frequently presented sweet dew. The assembled officials submitted a memorial saying, "Miraculous things constantly appear; we should order the Grand Historian to collect and compile them for transmission to later generations." The emperor did not adopt this suggestion. He often humbly claimed to lack virtue, and whenever commanderies or kingdoms presented auspicious omens, he always suppressed them and did not regard them as such. Thus, the court historians rarely recorded them.
In autumn, three commanderies and kingdoms suffered locust plagues.
In winter, the tenth month, on the xinwei day, Colonel Director of the Censors of the Capital, Donglai native Li Xin, was appointed Minister over the Masses.
On the jiashen day, the Minister of Works was ordered to report to the High Temple, honoring Empress Dowager Bo with the title Empress Gao, to accompany the Earth Spirit. The spirit tablet of Empress Lü was moved to the imperial cemetery, with seasonal sacrifices. In the eleventh month, on the jiazi day, which was the last day of the month, a solar eclipse occurred.
This year, the Mingtang, Lingtai, and Biyong were constructed, and the prognosticatory charts were promulgated to the world. Initially, the emperor had ascended the throne based on the "Chifu Fu," and from then on, he believed in and trusted apocryphal texts, often using them to decide difficult matters. Palace Attendant Huan Tan submitted a memorial remonstrating, saying, "It is human nature to neglect the obvious and value strange rumors. Observing the records of former kings, they all take benevolence, righteousness, and the correct path as fundamental, with no bizarre or fictitious matters. The Way of Heaven and human destiny are difficult even for sages to articulate. Since Zizai, even those below him have not heard of these things. How much less can later shallow scholars comprehend them! Now those with clever skills and petty talents, practitioners of esoteric arts, add to and delete from diagrams and texts, falsely attributing them to apocryphal records, to deceive and confuse greedy and wicked people, misleading rulers. How can they not be suppressed and kept at a distance! Your subject Huan Tan has heard that Your Majesty thoroughly refuted the alchemists' methods of turning cinnabar into gold, which is very wise. Yet to contemplate listening to and adopting apocryphal records—how mistaken this is! Although such matters sometimes coincide, they are like divination that only occasionally proves correct. Your Majesty should enlighten your hearing, manifest your sagely intent, discard the heretical talk of petty men, and elucidate the correct path of the Five Classics." When the memorial was presented, the emperor was displeased. It happened that the location of the Lingtai was being discussed. The emperor said to Huan Tan, "I decide by the apocryphal texts—what do you think?" Huan Tan remained silent for a long time, then said, "Your subject does not read apocryphal texts." The emperor asked him why, and Huan Tan again earnestly argued that apocryphal texts were not in accord with the classics. The emperor, enraged, said, "Huan Tan slanders the sages and defies the law! Take him away and behead him!" Huan Tan knocked his head until it bled, and after a long time, he was finally released. He was demoted and sent out as the Chief of Lu'an Commandery, dying of illness on the way to his post.
Fan Ye commented: Huan Tan was exiled for not skillfully using apocryphal texts, while Zheng Xing barely escaped punishment with his modest words. Jia Kui, who could embellish and adapt, was the most honored. The rulers of that era treated learning by such standards—how lamentable!
Jia Kui was from Fufeng.
The Southern Chanyu Bi died, and his younger brother, the Left Virtuous King Mo, succeeded him, titled Qiufuyouti Chanyu. The emperor sent an envoy bearing the seal and ribbon, bestowing robes, caps, and silks, which thereafter became a regular practice.
Zhongyuan year two of Emperor Guangwu of the Han (Dingsi, 57 CE)
In spring, the first month, on the xinwei day, the northern suburban altar was established for the first time to sacrifice to the Earth Spirit.
In the second month, on the wuxu day, the emperor died in the front hall of the Southern Palace at the age of sixty-two. The emperor held court at dawn every day and did not finish until after noon. He frequently summoned the dukes, ministers, generals, and attendants to discuss the principles of the classics, not retiring until midnight. The Crown Prince, seeing the emperor's diligent and tireless efforts, took an opportunity to remonstrate, saying, "Your Majesty possesses the sagacity of Yu and Tang, but lacks the fortune of nurturing life like the Yellow Emperor and Laozi. I hope you will cherish your spirit and rest with ease." The emperor said, "I take joy in this myself and do not feel weary!" Although he achieved great deeds through conquest, once the realm was pacified, he retired the meritorious officials and promoted civil officials. He handled the body of government with clarity and caution, grasping the reins of authority, and weighing circumstances and strength so that his actions had no errors. Thus, he was able to restore the achievements of his predecessors and personally attain peace.
Grand Commandant Zhao Xi presided over the funeral arrangements. At that time, after the chaos of Wang Mang's usurpation, the old regulations were lost. The Crown Prince and the various princes mingled without distinction, and the officials of the feudal states came and went in the palace and ministries, with no difference from the hundred officials. Zhao Xi, with a stern expression and sword in hand, stood on the palace steps, making the various princes descend to clarify the hierarchy of honor and status. He memorialized to send the protocol ushers to escort the officials to lodge in other counties, and ordered the princes to return to their residences, allowing them only to enter the palace to wail in mourning at dawn and dusk. He rectified the rituals and strictly guarded the gates, so that both inside and outside were solemn and orderly.
The Crown Prince ascended the throne and honored the Empress as Empress Dowager.
The Prince of Shanyang, Liu Jing, did not mourn with sincerity but instead wrote an anonymous letter, ordering his servant to pretend it was a letter from Grand Herald Guo Kuang to the Prince of Donghai, Liu Qiang. It said that he was innocent but had been deposed, and mentioned that Empress Guo had been degraded and humiliated, urging him to return east, raise troops, and seize the realm. It also said, "The Gaozu arose from a village chief, and Your Majesty arose from Baishui. How much more so for the Great King, who is Your Majesty's eldest son and the former Crown Prince! You should be like the autumn frost, not a sheep in a pen. When the ruler dies, common people still turn to banditry, seeking to scheme. How much more so for the Great King!" When Liu Qiang received the letter, he was terrified and immediately seized the messenger, sealed the letter, and submitted it to the throne. Emperor Ming, because Liu Jing was his half-brother (by the same mother), concealed the matter and sent Liu Jing out to reside in the Henan Palace.
In the third month, on the dingmao day, Emperor Guangwu was interred at Yuanling.
In summer, on the bingchen day of the fourth month, an edict was issued, saying: "Now, above there is no Son of Heaven, and below there is no regional lord; it is like crossing a deep abyss without an oar. The dignity of the ten-thousand-chariot ruler is most important, yet the thoughts of the young are shallow and light; truly I rely on virtuous men to assist me. The Marquis of Gaomi, Deng Yu, is the foremost of the founding ministers; the Prince of Dongping, Liu Cang, is generous, learned, and resourceful. Appoint Deng Yu as Grand Tutor, and Liu Cang as General of the Cavalry." Liu Cang earnestly declined, but the emperor did not permit it. He further ordered that the General of the Cavalry be allowed to establish officials, including a Chief Clerk and Assistant Officers, forty in number, with their status above the Three Dukes. Liu Cang once recommended the Western Bureau Assistant, Wu Liang of Qi State, and the emperor said: "Recommending worthy men to aid the state is the duty of the Chancellor. Xiao He recommended Han Xin, set up an altar, and appointed him general, without further examination. Now appoint Wu Liang as Consultant."
Initially, the Qiang chieftain Dianliang of the Shao Dang tribe defeated the Xian Lian Qiang, seized their land, and settled there; when Dianliang died, his son Dianwu succeeded him, and the tribe gradually grew strong. In autumn, Dianwu and his younger brother Dian'an led their people to invade Longxi, defeated the Prefect Liu Xu at Yunjie, and consequently all the Qiang tribes guarding the stockades rebelled. An edict ordered the Palace Secretary Zhang Hong to lead troops from various commanderies to attack them; a battle was fought at Yunwu, and Zhang Hong’s army was defeated and annihilated. In winter, in the eleventh month, the Central General Dou Gu was again sent to supervise the General of Captives Ma Wu and two other generals with forty thousand troops to launch a campaign.
That year, the Southern Chanyu Mo died, and his younger brother Han succeeded him, known as Yifayulüti Chanyu.
Emperor Xianzong, Xiaoming, the Supreme
First Year of Yongping of Emperor Xianzong, Xiaoming, the Supreme (Wu Wu, 58 AD)
In spring, in the first month, the emperor led the officials from the Dukes downward to pay homage at the Yuanling Mausoleum, following the ritual of the New Year’s audience. After the emperor’s carriage paid respects at the spirit seat, he withdrew and sat in the eastern side-chamber; the attendants all stood behind the spirit seat, the Grand Provisioner presented food, the Grand Musician played music; the commandery and principality reporting officers stepped forward in order, reporting the grain prices and the people’s hardships before the spirit seat. Thereafter, this became a regular practice.
In summer, in the fifth month, the Marquis Yuan of Gaomi, Deng Yu, died.
The Prince of Donghai, Liu Qiang, fell gravely ill. The emperor dispatched envoys and imperial physicians on relay carriages to inquire after his condition, with a constant stream of carriages and horses along the route. He also ordered the Prince of Pei, Liu Fu, the Prince of Jinan, Liu Kang, and the Prince of Huaiyang, Liu Yan, to go to Lu to visit him. On the wuyin day, Liu Qiang died. Before his death, he submitted a memorial thanking the emperor, saying: "Since I have already died young, my orphaned son has caused the Empress Dowager and Your Majesty concern—truly sorrowful, truly ashamed! My son Liu Zheng is a mediocre man; if he inherits my title, it will certainly not be a way to preserve him. I hope to return the Donghai Commandery. Now that the empire has just suffered the great mourning (referring to Emperor Guangwu’s death), I hope Your Majesty will doubly support the Empress Dowager, offering the morning meal in due time. I, Liu Qiang, am ill and weak, and my words cannot fully express my thoughts. I wish also to take leave of all the princes; I never thought I would never see them again!" When the emperor read the memorial, he was deeply grieved, and followed the Empress Dowager out of the palace to the Jinmen Pavilion to announce the mourning. He sent the Grand Minister of Works, bearing the imperial tally, to preside over the funeral rites, offering gifts according to special protocol, and ordered the Prince of Chu, Liu Ying, the Prince of Zhao, Liu Xu, the Prince of Beihai, Liu Xing, and the imperial relatives in the capital to all attend the burial. The emperor, recalling Liu Qiang’s persistent humility and frugality, did not wish to violate his will with lavish burial, and therefore specially decreed: "The burial items must be simple; the clothes sufficient only to cover the body; use straw carriages and earthenware vessels; reduce the articles from the prescribed regulations, to manifest the Prince of Donghai’s outstanding and singular intention." The Director of Works was left behind to build the mausoleum and temple.
In autumn, in the seventh month, Ma Wu and others attacked the Shao Dang Qiang, heavily defeated them, and the remainder either surrendered or scattered.
The Prince of Shanyang, Liu Jing, secretly summoned a diviner who observed celestial phenomena and plotted with him, hoping for a change in the empire. When the emperor heard of this, he changed Liu Jing’s title to Prince of Guangling and ordered him to go to his fief. The Grand Administrator of Liaodong, Ji Tan, sent Pian He to attack the Red Mountain Wuhuan, heavily defeated them, and beheaded their leader. The tribes beyond the frontier were terrified; from Wuwei in the west to Xuantu in the east, they all submitted. The borderlands saw no warfare, and consequently all the garrison troops along the frontier were withdrawn.
The Prince of Dongping, Liu Cang, considered that the restoration (Zhongxing) had lasted over thirty years, and the four directions were at peace, so it was time to cultivate rites and music. He therefore deliberated with the Three Dukes and established the regulations for the caps, carriages, and court robes for the southern and suburban sacrifices, as well as the number of ascending songs and the eight-row dance for the Temple of Guangwu, and submitted them to the emperor.
The Marquis Min of Haozhi, Geng Yan, died.
Second Year of Yongping of Emperor Xianzong, Xiaoming, the Supreme (Ji Wei, 59 AD)
In spring, in the first month, on the xinwei day, Emperor Guangwu was sacrificed to in the Hall of Light. The emperor, the dukes, and the marquises for the first time wore the cap and jade pendants in the ceremony. After the ceremony, they ascended the Spirit Terrace to observe the clouds and omens. A general amnesty was granted to the empire.
In the third month, the emperor personally visited the Biyong (Circular Moat Academy) and for the first time performed the Great Archery Ritual.
In winter, in the tenth month, on the renzi day, the emperor went to the Biyong and for the first time performed the Ritual of Nourishing the Elderly; he appointed Li Gong as the Three Elders and Huan Rong as the Five Watchmen. The Three Elders wore a large robe of dark linen and a cap of advancement, and carried a jade staff; the Five Watchmen wore the same clothes but without the staff. The emperor rode in a carriage to the ritual hall of the Biyong and sat in the eastern side-chamber. He sent envoys with a comfortable carriage to the lecture hall of the Imperial Academy to welcome the Three Elders and the Five Watchmen. The Son of Heaven met them between the gate and the screen, and they exchanged bows; the Son of Heaven led them from the eastern steps, and the Three Elders ascended from the guest steps; at the steps, the Son of Heaven bowed according to ritual. The Three Elders ascended, faced east, the Three Dukes set out the armrest, the Nine Ministers adjusted the shoes, and the Son of Heaven himself bared his left arm to cut the meat, presented the sauce, and held the goblet to offer wine. A prayer was recited before them, and they were encouraged to eat afterward. The Five Watchmen faced south, and the Three Dukes presented food, with the ritual similar to this. After the ceremony, they led Huan Rong and his disciples up to the hall, and the emperor personally lectured for them. All the scholars held their scriptures and came forward to ask questions. Those wearing caps, sashes, and carrying tablets, crowding around the bridge gate to watch and listen, numbered perhaps a hundred thousand. Thereupon, an edict was issued, granting Huan Rong the title of Marquis of Guannei; the Three Elders and the Five Watchmen were all provided for a lifetime with the stipend of two thousand bushels. Wine was granted to the Three Elders of the empire, each receiving one shi and forty jin of meat. From the time when the emperor was crown prince, he had studied the Book of Documents with Huan Rong, and after his accession, he still honored him with the rites of a teacher. He once went to the Grand Steward’s mansion, had Huan Rong sit facing east, set out the armrest and staff, and assembled all the officials and several hundred of Huan Rong’s students. The emperor personally held the scriptures and listened to the lecture; when a student rose and asked a question, the emperor humbly said, "The Grand Teacher is here." After the event, he bestowed all the food utensils from the Grand Provisioner on the Grand Steward’s household. Whenever Huan Rong fell ill, the emperor sent envoys to inquire, and the Grand Provisioner and imperial physicians were constantly on the road. When his illness became critical, Huan Rong submitted a memorial thanking the emperor and requesting the return of his title and fief. The emperor personally visited his home to inquire about his condition, entered the alley, dismounted from his carriage, held the scriptures, stepped forward, stroked Huan Rong’s face and wept, granting him bed mats, curtains, a sword and knife, robes and coverlets, and stayed for a long time before leaving. From then on, when nobles, generals, and high officials came to inquire about his illness, they no longer dared to ride in carriages to his gate; they all knelt at the foot of his bed. When Huan Rong died, the emperor personally changed into mourning clothes, attended the funeral, and granted him a burial site south of Mount Shou. His son Huan Yu was to inherit the title, but Huan Yu yielded it to his brother’s son Huan Fan; the emperor did not permit this, so Huan Yu accepted the title, but gave all the tax income from the fief to Huan Fan. The emperor appointed Huan Yu as a Palace Attendant.
Because the Prince of Zhongshan, Liu Yan, was the youngest son of Empress Dowager Guo, and the empress dowager especially loved him, the emperor alone kept him in the capital. At this time, he went to his fief along with the other princes, and was granted Tiger Guards and official cavalry, with exceptional favor; he alone was allowed to come and go from the capital. The emperor treated the Yin and Guo families with courtesy, being fair in every matter, and they received numerous gifts, with both enjoying abundant favor.
On the jiazi day, the emperor traveled to Chang’an. In the eleventh month, on the jiashen day, he sent envoys to offer a middle-class sacrifice to Xiao He and Huo Guang. When the emperor passed by, he bowed at their tombs from his carriage. He then proceeded to Hedong; on the guimao day, he returned to the palace.
In the twelfth month, the Protector of the Qiang, Dou Lin, was imprisoned and executed for deceiving the emperor and corruption. Dou Lin was the nephew of Dou Rong. At that time, the Dou family had one duke, two marquises, three princesses, and four officials with two-thousand-bushel stipends, all simultaneously prominent. From grandfather to grandson, their official residences and mansions filled the capital, unmatched among imperial relatives and meritorious officials. After Dou Lin was executed, the emperor repeatedly issued edicts sternly rebuking Dou Rong, who, in fear, requested retirement. The emperor ordered him to return home to recuperate.
That year, for the first time, the seasonal qi (energies) were welcomed at the five suburbs.
The son of the Marquis of Xinyang, Yin Jiu, named Yin Feng, married the Princess Liyi. The princess was arrogant and jealous, and Yin Feng killed her. He was executed, and both his parents committed suicide.
The Southern Chanyu Han died, and the son of Chanyu Bi, named Shi, succeeded him, known as Xizhuo Shizhuhouti Chanyu.
In the third year of Yongping, Gengshen year, 60 CE (during the reign of Emperor Xianzong Xiaoming).
Spring, second month, on the day Jiayin, Grand Commandant Zhao Xi and Minister over the Masses Li Xin were dismissed from office.
On the day Bingchen, the Left Governor of the Capital Region Guo Dan was appointed Minister over the Masses.
On the day Jiwei, the Grand Administrator of Nanyang Yu Yan was appointed Grand Commandant.
On the day Jiazi, the noble consort Ma was established as empress, and the emperor’s son Liu Da was made heir apparent. The empress was the daughter of Ma Yuan. During the time of Emperor Guangwu, she was selected to enter the heir apparent’s palace. She was able to serve Empress Yin, and she got along harmoniously with her peers, her ritual conduct and cultivation being complete. Both upper and lower ranks felt at ease, and thus she received special favor. When the emperor ascended the throne, she became a noble consort. At that time, the daughter of the empress’s elder half-sister by a previous wife, whose surname was Jia, was also selected to enter the palace and gave birth to the emperor’s son Liu Da. Because the empress had no son, the emperor ordered her to raise Liu Da, saying to her, “One does not necessarily have to bear a son oneself; the only fear is that one’s nurturing and love are insufficient!” The empress then devoted herself wholeheartedly to raising him, laboring with more hardship than if he were her own. The heir apparent was also naturally filial and sincere in character, and mother and son were loving, never having the slightest rift. The empress often, because the imperial heirs were few, recommended the women around her, as if afraid of not doing so in time. Whenever any in the rear palace were presented to the emperor, she would always offer them comfort and welcome. If they were repeatedly favored and promoted, she treated them even more generously. When the relevant officials petitioned to establish an empress, the emperor made no response. The empress dowager said, “The virtue of Noble Consort Ma is foremost in the rear palace; she is the one.” After the empress took her position in the palace, she became even more humble and dignified, delighting in reading books. She always wore coarse silk, and her skirts had no hems. On the first and fifteenth of each month, when the various consorts and imperial princesses came to pay court, they saw from afar that the empress’s robe was coarse, and thinking it was fine silk, they drew near and looked, then all laughed. The empress said, “This kind of silk is especially suitable for dyeing, so I use it.” When the ministers presented matters that were difficult to decide, the emperor often used them to test the empress’s opinion. The empress would always analyze the principles of the matter, grasping each situation, but she never used private matters to interfere in government. The emperor therefore favored and respected her, never diminishing throughout.
The emperor, remembering the ministers who had contributed to the restoration, then painted the portraits of twenty-eight generals in the Yuntai of the Southern Palace, with Deng Yu first, followed by Ma Cheng, Wu Han, Wang Liang, Jia Fu, Chen Jun, Geng Yan, Du Mao, Kou Xun, Fu Jun, Cen Peng, Jian Tan, Feng Yi, Wang Ba, Zhu Hu, Ren Guang, Zhai Zun, Li Zhong, Jing Dan, Wan Xiu, Gai Yan, Pi Rong, Yao Qi, Liu Zhi, Geng Chun, Zang Gong, Ma Wu, and Liu Long. In addition, he included Wang Chang, Li Tong, Dou Rong, and Zhuo Mao, making thirty-two in all. Ma Yuan, because he was a relative by marriage, was the only one not included.
Summer, fourth month, on the day Xinyou, the emperor’s son Liu Jian was enfeoffed as King of Qiansheng, and Liu Xian as King of Guangping.
Sixth month, on the day Dingmao, a comet appeared north of the Tianchuan star.
Emperor Ming of Han undertook large-scale construction of the Northern Palace. At the time, there was a drought. The Prefect of the Masters of Writing, Zhongli Yi of Kuaiji, came to the palace gate, removed his official cap, and submitted a memorial, saying: “In former times, King Cheng of Shang encountered a drought and blamed himself with six matters, saying: ‘Is it that governance is not restrained? Is it that the labor imposed on the people is too harsh? Is it that the palaces and chambers are too lavish? Is it that women in the rear palace are too influential? Is it that bribery is rampant? Is it that slanderers and villains are gaining power?’ I privately observe that the Northern Palace is being built on a large scale, causing the people to lose their farming seasons. Since ancient times, people have not suffered from narrow palaces and chambers; they only worry that the common people cannot live and work in peace. The project should be temporarily halted to comply with Heaven’s intent.” Emperor Ming of Han issued an edict in reply, saying: “King Cheng listed six matters, and the blame rests entirely on me alone. Put on your cap and shoes, and do not apologize!” He also ordered the Superintendent of Works to stop construction on all palaces and reduce non-urgent projects. Then he issued an edict apologizing to the dukes and ministers and the hundred officials, and soon timely rain fell. Zhongli Yi recommended the magistrate of Quanjiao County, Liu Ping. Emperor Ming of Han issued an edict summoning Liu Ping and appointed him as a Gentleman Consultant. When Liu Ping was in Quanjiao, his governance was benevolent and kind. The people sometimes voluntarily increased their family assets to pay more taxes, or reduced their own ages to perform labor service. When the Inspector and Grand Administrator inspected the subordinate commanderies and counties, the prisons had no inmates, and the people all felt they were in their proper places, not knowing what to ask. They merely promulgated the edicts and then departed. Emperor Ming of Han had a narrow and harsh nature, delighting in using spies to secretly investigate and display his perspicacity. The dukes and high ministers were repeatedly slandered, and close officials below the Masters of Writing were even dragged and beaten. He once became angry with a Gentleman, Yao Song, over some matter and struck him with a wooden staff. Yao Song hid under the bed. Emperor Ming of Han was extremely furious and shouted sternly, “Gentleman, come out!” Yao Song then said, “The Son of Heaven is solemn and majestic; the feudal lords are illustrious and magnificent. I have never heard of a ruler personally rising to beat a Gentleman.” Emperor Ming of Han then pardoned him. At that time, the entire court, from top to bottom, trembled with fear, vying to be strict and harsh to avoid punishment. Only Zhongli Yi dared to speak out in remonstrance, repeatedly returning edicts sealed, and when officials made mistakes, he always rescued them. Just then, a series of disasters and anomalies occurred. Zhongli Yi submitted a memorial, saying: “Your Majesty reveres ghosts and spirits and shows compassion for the people, but the weather is not harmonious, and cold and heat are abnormal. The fault lies with the multitude of ministers, who cannot propagate transformation and manage their duties, but instead take harshness as their custom. The hundred officials have no mutual affection, and officials and commoners have no intention of harmony, to the point that they stir up and collide with the harmonious qi, leading to heavenly disasters. The people can be moved by virtue but are hard to subdue by force. The poem ‘Deer Cry’ necessarily speaks of feasting and joy, because the hearts of men and spirits are connected, and only then is the weather harmonized. I hope Your Majesty will broadly manifest sacred virtue, relax penalties, and comply with the seasonal qi to harmonize yin and yang.” Although Emperor Ming of Han did not adopt his advice, he knew his utmost sincerity and always treated him generously.
Autumn, eighth month, on the day Wuchen, Emperor Ming of Han issued an edict changing the name of the Grand Music Bureau to the Grand Heir Bureau, based on prophetic texts.
On the day Renshen, the last day of the month, a solar eclipse occurred. Emperor Ming of Han issued an edict, saying: “In former times, King Zhuang of Chu had no disasters or anomalies, yet he was thereby vigilant and fearful. Duke Ai of Lu had great chaos, yet Heaven sent no reprimand. Now that anomalies have appeared, perhaps they can still be remedied. The relevant officials should diligently reflect on their duties to correct me, who is without virtue.”
Winter, tenth month, on the day Jiazi, Emperor Ming of Han accompanied the empress dowager to Zhangling. The Inspector of Jingzhou, Guo He, achieved outstanding results in governance. Emperor Ming of Han bestowed on him the ceremonial robes of the Three Dukes, with black-and-white axe patterns and black-and-green patterns, along with the crown’s tassels. He ordered that when Guo He made inspection tours, the curtains on his carriage should be removed, so that the people could see his appearance and attire, thereby displaying his virtue. On the day Wuchen, they returned from Zhangling.
This year, the capital and seven commanderies and kingdoms experienced severe floods.
The King of Suoju, Xian, relying on his military power, forcibly seized Yutian, Dayuan, and the kingdom of Guisai, and sent his generals to garrison these places. The people of Yutian killed Xian’s general Junde and installed their leader Xiumoba as king. Xian led the troops of various kingdoms, numbering tens of thousands, to attack Yutian. He was thoroughly defeated by Xiumoba and fled back alone. Xiumoba advanced and besieged Suoju but was struck by a stray arrow and died. The people of Yutian then installed the son of Xiumoba’s elder brother, Guangde, as king. Guangde sent his younger brother Ren to attack Xian. Guangde’s father had previously been detained in Suoju. Xian then returned his father and married his daughter to him, making peace with Yutian through marriage.