Records of Jin, Volume 11
Book 89 of Zizhi Tongjian
[Annal of Jin 11] It began in the year yiyou (the year of the interlaced-yang and the concealed-impurity) and ended in the year bingxu (the year of the soft-glow and the difficult-dug), covering three years.
Spring, first month, on the xinwei day, something resembling the sun fell to the ground; also, three suns appeared linked together, emerging from the west and moving eastward.
On the dingchou day, a general amnesty was proclaimed.
A meteor emerged near the constellation Oxherd, entered the Purple Forbidden enclosure, its light illuminating the earth, and fell north of Pingyang city, turning into a piece of flesh thirty paces long and twenty-seven paces wide. The Han ruler Liu Cong found this abhorrent and consulted his high ministers and nobles. Chen Yuanda considered: "This is an omen of excessive favor toward women, leading to the ruin of the state." Liu Cong said: "This is the principle of the interaction of yin and yang—what does it have to do with human affairs?" Liu Cong's empress, of the Liu clan, was wise and virtuous; whenever Liu Cong acted contrary to righteousness, she often remonstrated and corrected him. On the jichou day, she died, and was posthumously titled Wuxuan. From then on, favored consorts vied for his attention, and the inner palace fell into disorder.
Liu Cong established the seven ducal offices: Chancellor, Grand Mentor, Grand Tutor, Grand Guardian, Grand Minister over the Masses, Grand Minister of Works, and Grand Marshal. He also set up the sixteen great generals, such as Fu Han, each commanding two thousand troops, appointing his sons to these posts. He further created the Left and Right Commandants of the Capital Districts, each overseeing more than two hundred thousand households, with one Inner Administrator per ten thousand households; the Left and Right Assistants of the Chanyu, each managing one hundred thousand tribes of the Six Barbarian peoples, with one Commandant per ten thousand tribes; and the Left and Right Selecting Secretaries, jointly in charge of official appointments. From the Commandants of the Capital Districts downward, the six offices were ranked just below the Director of the Palace Secretariat. Liu Cong appointed his son Liu Can as Chancellor, concurrently General-in-Chief and Recorder of the Secretariat, and enfeoffed him as Prince of Jin. Jiangdu Prince Liu Yannian was made Recorder of the Six Articles of the Secretariat, Ruyin Prince Liu Jing as Grand Mentor, Wang Yu as Grand Tutor, Ren Yi as Grand Guardian, Ma Jing as Grand Minister over the Masses, Zhu Ji as Grand Minister of Works, and Zhongshan Prince Liu Yao as Grand Marshal. On the renchen day, Wang Zichun and others, along with Wang Jun's envoy, arrived at Xiangguo. Shi Le concealed his elite troops and fine armor, displaying only the old, weak, and empty storehouses. He faced north to bow to the envoy and receive the documents. Wang Jun had sent Shi Le a yak-tail whisk; Shi Le pretended not to dare hold it, hanging it on the wall and worshipping it morning and evening, saying: "I cannot see the Duke of Wang; seeing what he has bestowed upon me is like seeing him in person." He also sent Dong Zhao to present a memorial to Wang Jun, pledging to personally visit Youzhou in mid-third month to offer the imperial title; he also wrote to Zao Song, requesting appointment as Inspector of Bingzhou and Duke of Guangping.
Shi Le asked Wang Zichun about Wang Jun's governance. Wang Zichun said: "Last year, there was a great flood in Youzhou, and the people had no grain to eat. Wang Jun hoarded a million hu of grain but refused to relieve the people. His punishments and decrees were harsh and cruel, his taxes and corvée heavy and numerous. Loyal ministers and worthy scholars are alienated within, while the barbarians and outlanders rebel without. Everyone knows he is about to perish, yet Wang Jun is self-satisfied and without fear. He is even setting up a Secretariat and appointing officials, considering himself superior to Han Gaozu and Emperor Wu of Wei." Shi Le struck his table and laughed, saying: "Wang Pengzu can indeed be captured." When Wang Jun's envoy returned to Ji City, he reported in detail: "Shi Le's forces are thin and weak, his attitude sincere, and he has no second thoughts." Wang Jun was greatly pleased, growing even more arrogant and negligent, and ceased all defenses.
Yang Hu plundered the officials and people of Hanzhong and then fled to Cheng-Han. The people of Liangzhou, such as Zhang Xian, raised troops to expel Yang Nandi. After Yang Nandi left, Zhang Xian submitted the territory to Cheng-Han, so the lands of Hanjia, Fuling, and Hanzhong all came under Cheng-Han's control. The Cheng-Han ruler Li Xiong appointed Li Feng as Inspector of Liangzhou, Ren Hui as Inspector of Ningzhou, and Li Gong as Inspector of Jingzhou.
Li Xiong treated others with humility, cherished worthy talents, and assigned offices according to ability. He ordered Grand Guardian Li Xiang to nurture the people within the borders, while Li Feng and others pacified and attracted those outside. His punishments and decrees were lenient and simple; there were no backlogged prisoners in the jails. He established schools and set up official historians. In collecting taxes from the people, adult males paid three hu of grain annually, adult females half that, and the sick half again. Per household, the levy of silk did not exceed a few bolts, and floss silk did not exceed a few liang. Affairs were few, corvée light, and the people generally wealthy and well-off. Newly submitted persons were exempted from taxes and corvée. At that time, the realm was in great chaos, but only Shu was peaceful and untroubled, with abundant harvests each year, to the point where doors were not bolted at night and lost items were not picked up. The Hanjia barbarian king Chong Gui, Zhu Ti of Zhaoting, and Cuan Jiang of Jianning all submitted to him. Ba Commandery once sent an urgent report, saying there were Jin troops. Li Xiong said: "I often worried that the Prince of Langya was weak and would eventually be destroyed by Shi Le; I was anxious about this. I never expected he could raise troops—it is comforting." However, Li Xiong's court lacked ritual and protocol, and titles were granted indiscriminately. Officials had no salary grades and requisitioned supplies from the people. The army had no organization, and commands were not strict. These were his shortcomings.
Second month, on the renyin day, the court appointed Zhang Gui as Grand Commandant and Protector of Liangzhou, enfeoffing him as Duke of Xiping Commandery; Wang Jun as Grand Marshal and Commander-in-Chief of Youzhou and Jizhou military affairs; Xun Zu as Minister of Works, concurrently Left Director of the Secretariat and Colonel Director of the Retainers, acting as head of the Branch Secretariat; and Liu Kun as General-in-Chief and Commander-in-Chief of Bingzhou military affairs. Because Zhang Gui was old and ill, the court appointed his son Zhang Shi as Vice-Protector.
Shi Le marshaled his troops and prepared to launch a surprise attack on Wang Jun, but hesitated and did not set out. Zhang Bin said: "When striking another, one should catch them off guard. Now the army has been on alert for days but has not moved—are you not afraid that Liu Kun and the Xianbei and Wuhuan might become a threat behind us?" Shi Le said: "Yes. What should be done?" Zhang Bin said: "The talent and strength of those three parties are no match for you, General. Even if you go far, they will surely not dare to act. Moreover, they likely do not believe you can take Youzhou with an isolated army a thousand li away. With a light force, the round trip will not exceed twenty days. Even if they had the intent, by the time they plan and dispatch troops, we will have already returned. Furthermore, Liu Kun and Wang Jun, though nominally both subjects of Jin, are in fact enemies. If you send a letter to Liu Kun, offering a hostage and seeking peace, Liu Kun will surely be pleased by our submission and rejoice at Wang Jun's downfall, and ultimately will not rescue Wang Jun by attacking us. In war, speed is prized—do not miss the opportunity." Shi Le said: "What I did not understand, the Right Marquis has made clear. What more have I to hesitate about!"
Thus, Shi Le marched by torchlight at night, reaching Boren, where he killed the Recorder You Lun, because his elder brother You Tong was in Fanyang, and he feared the military plan might be leaked. Shi Le sent an envoy to Liu Kun with a letter and a hostage, confessing his crimes and requesting to attack Wang Jun to repay the court. Liu Kun was overjoyed and issued a proclamation to the commanderies, saying: "I am now consulting with Tuoba Yilu to attack Shi Le. Shi Le, in desperation, has requested to take Youzhou to atone for his crimes. Now, we should send Tuoba Liuxiu south to attack Pingyang, to eliminate the rebellious usurpers and subdue the doomed fleeing Jie barbarians. To accord with Heaven and respond to the people, and to assist the Imperial House—this is what years of accumulated sincerity have moved the spirits to bring about!"
In the third month, Shi Le's army reached the Yi River. Wang Jun's Protector of the Army, Sun Wei, urgently sent a report to Wang Jun, preparing to lead troops to resist Shi Le, but You Tong stopped him. Wang Jun's generals and advisors all said: "The Hu are greedy and untrustworthy; they surely have a cunning scheme. Please attack them." Wang Jun angrily said: "Lord Shi has come precisely to support me! Anyone who dares to speak of attacking will be beheaded!" The crowd dared not speak further. Wang Jun set up a feast to await Shi Le. On the day of Renshen, Shi Le arrived at Ji City at daybreak, shouting at the gatekeepers to open the gates; still suspicious of an ambush, he first drove several thousand oxen and sheep, claiming they were gifts, but actually intending to block the various streets and lanes. Wang Jun only then began to feel fear, restless and uneasy. After Shi Le entered the city, he let his soldiers loose to plunder extensively. Wang Jun's attendants requested to resist, but Wang Jun still did not consent. Shi Le ascended the main hall of government, and only then did Wang Jun come out of the hall; Shi Le's subordinates seized him. Shi Le summoned Wang Jun's wife, sat side by side with her, and made Wang Jun stand before them. Wang Jun cursed: "Hu slave, are you mocking your old man? Why are you so vicious and rebellious!" Shi Le said: "You hold a position above the highest tribunal, commanding strong troops, yet you sat idly by as our dynasty collapsed, refusing to rescue it, and even wished to proclaim yourself emperor—is this not vicious and rebellious! Moreover, you employed corrupt and greedy men, harmed and abused the people, oppressed the loyal and good, and spread poison throughout Yan—whose crime is this!" Shi Le sent his general Wang Luosheng to escort Wang Jun first with five hundred cavalry to Xiangguo. Wang Jun attempted to drown himself, but was fished out and bound, then beheaded in the marketplace of Xiangguo.
Shi Le killed ten thousand elite soldiers of Wang Jun's forces. The generals and advisors of Wang Jun vied to go to the military gate to apologize, sending bribes piled up in confusion; only the former Minister of Personnel, Pei Xian, and Attendant-in-Ordinary, Xun Chuo, did not come. Shi Le summoned and rebuked them, saying: "Wang Jun was cruel and violent; I punished and killed him. Everyone else came to celebrate and apologize; only you two shared in his evil deeds. On what grounds will you escape execution!" The two replied: "Our families have served the Jin dynasty for generations, receiving its glory and emoluments. Although Wang Jun was fierce and brutal, he was still a vassal of Jin, so we followed him and dared not have two minds. If Your Illustrious Lord does not cultivate virtue and righteousness but relies solely on punitive punishment, then dying is our proper lot—what is there to escape? Please let us face death." Having spoken, they did not bow and left the gate. Shi Le summoned them and apologized, treating them with the courtesy due to guests. Xun Chuo was the grandson of Xun Xu. Shi Le enumerated the crimes of Zhu Shuo, Zao Song, and others who accepted bribes and disrupted governance, becoming a scourge to Youzhou, and rebuked You Tong for not being loyal to the master he served, and had them all beheaded. When the households of Wang Jun's generals, advisors, and relatives were searched, their wealth reached tens of thousands, but Pei Xian and Xun Chuo had only over a hundred chests of books and a dozen hu each of salt and grain. Shi Le said: "I am not pleased to have obtained Youzhou, but pleased to have obtained these two men." He appointed Pei Xian as Attendant-in-Ordinary and Xun Chuo as Adjutant. He separately dispersed the refugees, letting them return to their native places. Shi Le stayed in Ji City for two days, burned Wang Jun's palace, appointed the former Jin Minister, the Yan man Liu Han, as acting Inspector of Youzhou to guard Ji City, set up local officials, and then returned. Sun Wei intercepted and attacked Shi Le, who barely escaped.
Shi Le returned to Xiangguo and sent an envoy to present Wang Jun's head to Han as a victory report. Han appointed Shi Le as Grand Commandant, Commander of All Military Affairs East of the Shan Pass, General of the Elite Cavalry, and Eastern Chanyu, adding twelve commanderies to his fief; Shi Le firmly declined, accepting only two commanderies.
Liu Kun requested troops from Tuoba Yilu to attack Han. Just then, over ten thousand households of mixed Hu among Tuoba Yilu's subordinates secretly plotted to respond to Shi Le. Tuoba Yilu killed them all, thus failing to fulfill his agreement with Liu Kun. Liu Kun, knowing that Shi Le had no intention of surrendering, became very fearful and submitted a memorial, saying: "Of the eight northeastern provinces, Shi Le has destroyed seven. Of what the former dynasty granted, only I remain. Shi Le occupies Xiangguo, separated from me only by mountains; setting out at dawn, he could arrive by evening. The city walls and fortresses are all terrified. Although I cherish loyalty and righteous indignation, my strength is insufficient to match my will!"
Liu Han was unwilling to follow Shi Le, so he went back to submit to Duan Pidi, who then occupied Ji City. Yang Yu, an Attendant-in-Ordinary of Wang Jun, who was the elder brother's son of Yang Dan, fled to Lingzhi and attached himself to Duan Jilujuan. Zhu Zuoche of Kuaiji, Kong Zuan of Lu, and Humu Yi of Taishan fled from Ji City to Changli and attached themselves to Murong Hui. At that time, tens of thousands of refugee families from the Central Plains attached themselves to Murong Hui. Murong Hui organized the people from Jizhou into Jiyang Commandery, those from Yuzhou into Chengzhou Commandery, those from Qingzhou into Yingqiu Commandery, and those from Bingzhou into Tangguo Commandery.
Earlier, Wang Jun had appointed Shao Xu as Administrator of Leling, stationed at Yanci. After Wang Jun's defeat, Shao Xu submitted to Shi Le, who appointed Shao Xu's son, Shao Yi, as Protector of the Army. Liu Yin, a man of Donglai, whom Wang Jun had appointed as Administrator of Bohai, abandoned his commandery and came to attach himself to Shao Xu, saying to him: "Whoever establishes great merit must rely on great righteousness. You are a loyal vassal of Jin; why follow bandits to defile yourself!" Just then, Duan Pidi sent a letter inviting Shao Xu to submit together to the Left Chancellor, Sima Rui. Shao Xu followed his advice. His subordinates all said: "Now if we abandon Shi Le and submit to Duan Pidi, what will become of Shao Yi?" Shao Xu wept and said: "How can I, for the sake of sparing my son, become a rebel!" He killed several of those who dissented. When Shi Le heard of this, he killed Shao Yi. Shao Xu sent Liu Yin as an envoy to Jiangdong. Sima Rui appointed Liu Yin as Adjutant and Shao Xu as Administrator of Pingyuan. Shi Le sent troops to surround Shao Xu. Duan Pidi sent his younger brother, Duan Wenyang, to rescue him, and Shi Le withdrew his forces.
A great famine occurred in Xiangguo; two sheng of grain were worth one jin of silver, and one jin of meat was worth one liang of silver.
Du Bi's general, Wang Zhen, attacked Tao Kan at Xiuzhang. Tao Kan fled to Shezhong. Zhou Fang came to Tao Kan's aid, attacked Du Bi's forces, and defeated them.
Summer, the fifth month. Xiping Wu Mu Gong, Zhang Gui, lay ill and unable to rise. He left a testamentary order, saying: "Civil and military generals and advisors must pacify the people, look upward to repay the state, and look downward to settle the family." On the day of Jichou, Zhang Gui died. The Chief Clerk, Zhang Xi, and others submitted a petition requesting that the heir-apparent, Zhang Shi, act in his father's place.
The Han Prince of Zhongshan, Liu Yao, and Zhao Ran invaded Chang'an. In the sixth month, Liu Yao camped at Weirui, and Zhao Ran camped at Xinfeng. Suo Chen led troops out to resist them. Zhao Ran showed contempt for Suo Chen. His Chief Clerk, Lu Hui, said: "The ruler and ministers of Jin know themselves to be no match in strength and will fight to the death. They must not be taken lightly." Zhao Ran said: "As powerful as Sima Mo was, I took him like snapping rotten wood. This Suo Chen, a petty fellow—how can he defile my horse's hooves or my blade!" At dawn, he led several hundred light cavalry to engage, saying: "I must capture Suo Chen before I eat." Suo Chen fought with him west of the city. Zhao Ran's army was defeated and returned. He regretted it and said: "If I had not listened to Lu Hui, I would not have come to this. What face do I have to see him!" He first ordered Lu Hui killed. Lu Hui said: "The general, foolish and headstrong, brought about his own defeat, and then, jealous of worth and fearing others surpassing him, kills a loyal man to vent his anger. If Heaven and Earth exist, will the general die on his pillow?" The court issued an edict appointing Suo Chen as General of the Elite Cavalry, Left Vice Director of the Department of State Affairs, and Chief of the Secretariat, with authority to act on the emperor's behalf.
Liu Yao and Zhao Ran, together with General Yin Kai, led tens of thousands of men toward Chang'an. Qu Yun met them in battle at Fengyi. Qu Yun was defeated and withdrew his troops. At night, he attacked Yin Kai's camp. Yin Kai was defeated and died. Liu Yao then turned to attack He'ei, besieging the Administrator of Henei, Guo Mo, at Huai County, deploying three camps to surround him. Guo Mo's grain was exhausted. He sent his wife and children as hostages and asked to buy grain from Liu Yao. After purchasing the grain, he again strengthened his defenses around the city walls. Liu Yao was enraged, drowned Guo Mo's wife and children in the Yellow River, and continued the siege. Guo Mo wished to flee to Li Ju, who was at Xinzheng. Li Ju sent his nephew, Guo Song, to welcome him. But the soldiers were few and dared not advance. Just then, Liu Kun sent Adjutant Zhang Zhao, leading over five hundred Xianbei cavalry, toward Chang'an. The road was blocked and they could not pass. On their return, they passed Li Ju's camp. Li Ju persuaded Zhang Zhao to attack the Han army. The Han army, seeing the Xianbei cavalry, retreated without a fight. Guo Mo then led his followers to submit to Li Ju. The Han ruler, Liu Cong, summoned Liu Yao to return and camp at Puban.
In autumn, Zhao Ran attacked Beidi. Qu Yun resisted him, and Zhao Ran was hit by a crossbow bolt and died.
Shi Le began to order the commanderies and counties to verify household registrations, each household contributing two bolts of silk and two hu of grain.
In winter, tenth month, Zhang Shi was appointed as Commander of All Military Affairs in Liang Province, Inspector of Liang Province, and Duke of Xiping.
In the eleventh month, the Han ruler Liu Cong appointed the Jin Prince Liu Can as Chancellor and Grand Shanyu, overseeing all court affairs. Liu Can had shown talent in his youth, but after becoming chancellor, he grew arrogant, extravagant, willful, and despotic, distancing himself from the worthy and favoring the wicked, harsh and stubborn in rejecting remonstrance, so that people within the state began to despise him.
Zhou Xie, following his father’s dying words and exploiting the resentment of the Wu people, plotted rebellion. He sent Wu Xing’s Merit Officer Xu Fu to falsely claim the orders of his uncle, the Chancellor’s Assistant Director of the Department of State Affairs, Zhou Zha, gathering followers under the pretext of punishing Wang Dao and Diao Xie. Many heroes attached themselves to him, and Sun Hao’s clansman Sun Bi also raised troops in Guangde to respond.
In spring, first month, Xu Fu killed Wu Xing’s Grand Administrator Yuan Xiu, commanding several thousand men, intending to honor Zhou Zha as their leader. When Zhou Zha heard this, he was greatly alarmed and reported it to Yi Xing’s Grand Administrator Kong Kan. Zhou Xie, knowing Zhou Zha’s dissent, dared not move. Xu Fu’s followers grew fearful, attacked and killed him; Sun Bi also died. Zhou Zha’s son Zhou Xu also gathered followers to respond to Xu Fu. The Left Chancellor Sima Rui discussed sending troops to punish him. Wang Dao said: “If we send too few troops now, they cannot quell the rebels; if we send too many, our rear will be weak. Zhou Xu’s younger cousin, the Yellow Gate Attendant Zhou Yan, is loyal, courageous, and resourceful. I request that Zhou Yan be sent alone; it will be enough to kill Zhou Xu.” Sima Rui followed his advice. Zhou Yan traveled day and night, reaching the commandery city. As he was about to enter, he met Zhou Xu at the gate and said to him: “I should go with you to pay respects to Prefect Kong; there are matters to discuss.” Zhou Xu refused to enter, but Zhou Yan pulled him and forced him to go inside. After they sat down, Zhou Yan said to Kong Kan: “Prefect, why do you let a bandit sit in the seat?” Zhou Xu always carried a knife in his clothes; he immediately drew it and lunged at Zhou Yan. Zhou Yan loudly ordered the commandery’s teaching officer Wu Zeng to kill him. Zhou Yan then wanted to kill Zhou Xie, but Zhou Zha disagreed and placed the blame on his cousin Zhou Shao, who was killed. Zhou Yan did not return to visit his mother but rode straight away; his mother chased after him in distress. Sima Rui appointed Zhou Zha as Grand Administrator of Wu Xing and Zhou Yan as Chief of the Crown Prince’s Right Guard. Because the Zhou clan was a powerful local family in Wu, no thorough investigation was made, and Zhou Xie was treated as before.
An imperial edict ordered the General Who Pacifies the East, Song Zhe, to station troops at Hua Yin.
The Cheng ruler Li Xiong established Lady Ren as empress.
In the second month, on the bingzi day, the Langye Prince Sima Rui was appointed Chancellor, Commander-in-Chief, and Supervisor of All Internal and External Military Affairs; the Nanyang Prince Sima Bao was appointed Minister of Education; Xun Zu was appointed Grand Commandant and concurrently Governor of Yu Province; Liu Kun was appointed Minister of Works and Commander of All Military Affairs in Bing, Ji, and You Provinces. Liu Kun declined the position of Minister of Works and did not accept it.
When the Nanyang Prince Sima Mo was defeated, the Commandant Chen An went to Qin Province to join the heir-apparent Sima Bao. Sima Bao ordered Chen An to lead over a thousand men to attack rebellious Qiang tribes and treated him with great favor. Sima Bao’s general Zhang Chun, out of jealousy, slandered Chen An, claiming he had treacherous intentions, and requested his removal. Sima Bao did not agree. Zhang Chun then ambushed Chen An with assassins. Chen An was wounded, fled on horseback back to Long Cheng, and sent envoys to Sima Bao, continuously presenting tribute.
An imperial edict advanced the title of Tuoba Yilu to Prince of Dai, establishing his official staff and granting him the two commanderies of Dai and Changshan as his fief. Tuoba Yilu requested from Liu Kun the Bing Province Attendant, Yanmen man Mo Han, and Liu Kun sent him. Mo Han did not want to go, but Liu Kun said: “Given the isolation and weakness of Bing Province and my lack of ability, to survive among the Hu and Jie peoples relies on the strength of the Prince of Dai. I have exhausted my heart and resources, sending my eldest son as hostage to serve him, hoping to cleanse the great shame for the court. You wish to be a loyal minister—why begrudge the small sincerity of shared service and forget the great principle of dying for the state? Go and serve the Prince of Dai, become his trusted aide—this is what a whole province depends on.” Mo Han then went. Tuoba Yilu valued him greatly and often consulted him on major plans.
Tuoba Yilu enforced the law severely. If someone in the state committed a crime, sometimes the entire tribe was executed. Old and young, supporting each other, went forward. When asked: “Where are you going?” they replied: “Going to die.” No one dared to flee or hide.
Wang Dun sent Tao Kan, Gan Zhuo, and others to attack Du Tao. After several dozen battles, many of Du Tao’s officers and men died, so he requested to surrender to the Chancellor Sima Rui, but Sima Rui did not agree. Du Tao wrote to Nanping’s Grand Administrator Ying Zhan, stating that he had previously “joined in punishing Le Xiang, originally sharing hardships and joys. Later, in Xiangzhong, fearing death and seeking life, I gathered followers. If it were possible, based on old friendship, to clarify right and wrong for me, enabling me to express sincerity to the alliance office and be ranked among the righteous, perhaps heading north to sweep the Central Plains or west to take Li Xiong, to atone for past crimes—even the day of death would be like a year of rebirth!” Ying Zhan presented the letter on his behalf, adding: “Du Tao is a Xiucai from Yi Province, always of pure reputation, forced by his fellow provincials. Now he repents evil and turns to good. Commissioners should be sent to placate and accept him, to stabilize the people of the Jiang and Xiang regions!” Sima Rui then sent the former Grand Administrator of Nanhai, Wang Yun, to accept Du Tao’s surrender, pardoning him for his rebellion and appointing him as Army Supervisor of Badong. After Du Tao accepted the appointment, the generals continued to attack him without cease. Du Tao, in great anger, killed Wang Yun and rebelled again, sending his generals Du Hong and Zhang Yan to kill Linchuan’s Grand Administrator Xie Qin, then captured Yuzhang. In the third month, Zhou Fang attacked Zhang Yan and killed him; Du Hong fled to Linhe.
The Han state declared a general amnesty and changed the reign title to Jianyuan.
Blood rained down on the Eastern Palace’s Yanying Hall in the Han state. The Crown Prince Liu Yi found this ominous and questioned the Grand Tutor Cui Wei and the Grand Protector Xu Xia. Cui Wei and Xu Xia advised Liu Yi: “The ruler formerly established Your Highness as Crown Prince merely to reassure the people’s hearts; his mind has long been set on the Jin Prince. None among the princes and officials fail to flatter his intentions and attach themselves to him. Now he has appointed the Jin Prince as Chancellor, with regalia and authority exceeding the Eastern Palace, handling all state affairs. All the princes have established camp garrisons as wings—the situation is already lost. Your Highness not only cannot be established but also faces imminent danger. It would be better to plan early. Now the four guard units have no fewer than five thousand elite troops. The Chancellor is frivolous; he only needs an assassin. The Great General goes out daily; his camp can be taken by surprise. The other princes are all young and easily dealt with. If Your Highness is willing, twenty thousand elite troops can be gathered in an instant. Beating drums and advancing into the Yunlong Gate, which of the palace guards would not turn their weapons to welcome Your Highness? The Grand Marshal need not be feared for rebellion.” Liu Yi did not follow this advice. The Eastern Palace Attendant Xun Yu reported that Cui Wei and Xu Xia had urged Liu Yi to rebel. The Han ruler Liu Cong had Cui Wei and Xu Xia arrested and imprisoned in the prison, then executed them under other charges. He sent the Crown Guard General Bu Chou to lead troops to guard and monitor the Eastern Palace, forbidding Liu Yi from attending court meetings. Liu Yi, anxious and terrified, did not know what to do. He submitted a memorial requesting to become a commoner and to strip his sons of their titles, praising the Jin Prince and requesting that he be made heir. Bu Chou suppressed the memorial and did not report it.
The Han Inspector of Qing Province, Cao Ni, completely occupied all commanderies and counties between Qi and Lu, stationed himself at Linzi, commanding over one hundred thousand troops, and set up defenses along the Yellow River. Shi Le submitted a memorial saying: “Cao Ni harbors ambition to dominate the east; I request permission to attack him.” The Han ruler Liu Cong, fearing that if Shi Le destroyed Cao Ni, he would be unable to control him, did not agree.
Liu Cong married the two daughters of the Central Protector Jin Zhun—Yueguang and Yuehua. He established Yueguang as the Upper Empress, Liu Consort as the Left Empress, and Yuehua as the Right Empress. The Left Supervisor of the Capital Officials Chen Yuanda strongly remonstrated, arguing: “Establishing three empresses simultaneously is contrary to ritual.” Liu Cong was displeased and appointed Chen Yuanda as Right Grand Master of Splendid Happiness, outwardly showing favor but actually stripping him of power. Thereupon, the Grand Commandant Fan Long and others all requested to yield their positions to Chen Yuanda. Liu Cong then re-appointed Chen Yuanda as Imperial Secretary and Yitong Sansi. Yueguang committed acts of licentiousness; Chen Yuanda reported and exposed them. Liu Cong, unable to do otherwise, deposed her. Yueguang, in shame and anger, committed suicide. Liu Cong therefore resented Chen Yuanda.
In summer, fourth month, a general amnesty was declared.
In the sixth month, grave robbers excavated the tombs of Han Baling and Duling, as well as the tomb of Empress Dowager Bo, obtaining much gold and silk. Because the treasury was insufficient, an edict was issued to confiscate the remaining valuables to enrich the imperial storehouse.
On the Xinsi day, a general amnesty was proclaimed.
Han Grand Marshal Liu Yao attacked Shangdang. In the eighth month, on the Guihai day, he defeated Liu Kun’s army at Xiangyuan. Liu Yao wished to attack Yangqu, but Han ruler Liu Cong sent an envoy to him, saying: “Chang’an is not yet pacified; you should attend to that first.” Liu Yao then turned his army back and encamped at Puban.
Tao Kan and Du Tao fought against each other. Du Tao sent Wang Gong out to issue a challenge. Tao Kan said to him from a distance: “Du Tao was a minor clerk in Yi Province who embezzled treasury funds and did not return home for his father’s funeral. You are essentially a good man; why follow him! Is there such a thing in the world as a bandit who grows old and white-haired?” Wang Gong had initially been lounging with his feet crossed on his horse, but upon hearing Tao Kan’s words, he composed his expression and lowered his feet. Tao Kan, realizing he could be swayed, sent an envoy to persuade him further, cutting off some hair as a token of sincerity. Wang Gong then surrendered to Tao Kan. Du Tao’s forces scattered; he fled and died on the road. Tao Kan, together with Nanping Administrator Ying Zhan, advanced and captured Changsha, and Xiang Province was completely pacified. The Chancellor, Sima Rui, acting on the imperial prerogative, pardoned the officers and soldiers under Tao Kan’s command, promoted Wang Dun to General of the East, and added the posts of Commander-in-Chief of the military affairs of Jiang, Yang, Jing, Xiang, Jiao, and Guang provinces, and Inspector of Jiang Province. Wang Dun began to appoint officials below the rank of inspector himself, gradually becoming more arrogant.
Initially, when Wang Ru surrendered, Wang Dun’s cousin Wang Ling admired Wang Ru’s bravery and asked Wang Dun to assign him to his own command. Wang Dun said: “This kind of man is ferocious and tough, difficult to tame. You are impetuous and cannot contain or nurture him; it will instead bring about disaster.” Wang Ling insisted on his request, so Wang Dun gave Wang Ru to him. Wang Ling placed Wang Ru by his side and treated him with great favor. Wang Ru repeatedly engaged in archery contests and fights with Wang Dun’s generals, and Wang Ling had him flogged. Wang Ru felt deeply humiliated. When Wang Dun secretly began to nurse rebellious intentions, Wang Ling often admonished him. Wang Dun, angered by his dissent, secretly sent someone to provoke Wang Ru into killing Wang Ling. During a casual banquet, Wang Ru requested permission to perform a sword dance for entertainment, and Wang Ling agreed. As Wang Ru’s sword dance gradually drew closer, Wang Ling, displeased, shouted at him. Wang Ru then rushed forward and killed Wang Ling. When Wang Dun heard of this, he feigned shock and also had Wang Ru arrested and killed.
Earlier, when the court heard of Zhang Guang’s death, it appointed Attendant-in-ordinary Diwu Yi as General of Pacifying the South, overseeing the military affairs of Jing, Liang, Yi, and Ning provinces, and Inspector of Jing Province, dispatching him through Wu Pass. Du Zeng welcomed Diwu Yi at Xiangyang, married his brother’s son to Diwu Yi’s daughter, and then gathered a force of ten thousand men, occupying the region along the Han and Mian rivers separately with Diwu Yi.
After defeating Du Tao, Tao Kan advanced to attack Du Zeng with a contemptuous attitude. Sima Lu Tian admonished him, saying: “In all battles, one should first assess the opposing general. Among your lordship’s current generals, none match Du Zeng; you should not approach him lightly.” Tao Kan did not listen, advanced to Shicheng, and besieged Du Zeng. Du Zeng’s army had many cavalrymen. He secretly opened the city gates and launched a sudden attack on Tao Kan’s battle formation, circling behind it and striking from the rear. Several hundred of Tao Kan’s soldiers died. Du Zeng prepared to head to Shunyang, dismounted, bowed to Tao Kan, and took his leave.
At that time, Xun Song was Commander-in-Chief of the military affairs of Jing Province north of the Yangzi River, stationed at Wan City. Du Zeng led his troops to besiege him. Xun Song’s forces were few and his provisions exhausted. He wanted to seek help from his former subordinate, Xiangcheng Administrator Shi Lan. Xun Song’s young daughter, Xun Guan, aged thirteen, led several tens of brave warriors, scaled the city wall, and broke through the encirclement under cover of night. Fighting as they advanced, they finally reached Shi Lan’s station. She also wrote a letter on behalf of Xun Song to seek aid from the Southern General Zhou Fang. Zhou Fang sent his son Zhou Fu with three thousand troops, who, together with Shi Lan, came to Xun Song’s rescue. Du Zeng then fled.
Du Zeng then sent a letter to Xun Song, requesting to campaign against the bandits of Danshui to prove his loyalty, and Xun Song agreed. Tao Kan wrote to Xun Song, saying: “Du Zeng is cruel and cunning, truly what is called a ‘vulture that devours its mother.’ If this man does not die, the province will not be at peace. You, sir, should remember my words!” Xun Song, considering his small force at Wan and wishing to rely on Du Zeng as an external ally, did not heed this advice. Du Zeng again led more than two thousand refugees to besiege Xiangyang. After several days, failing to capture it, he withdrew.
Wang Dun’s favorite, Qian Feng of Wuxing, was jealous of Tao Kan’s achievements and repeatedly slandered him. Tao Kan was about to return to Jiangling and wished to go to Wang Dun to present his case in person. Zhu Si and Huangfu Fanghui of Anding admonished him, saying: “If you go in, you will not come out.” Tao Kan did not listen. Upon his arrival, Wang Dun detained Tao Kan and would not let him return, demoting him to Inspector of Guang Province and appointing his own cousin, the Chancellor’s Military Counselor Wang Yi, as Inspector of Jing Province. The generals and officials of Jing Province, Zheng Pan, Ma Jun, and others, went to Wang Dun and petitioned to keep Tao Kan. Wang Dun was angry and refused. Zheng Pan and the others, believing that Tao Kan had only just eliminated a great rebel but was instead demoted, felt indignant and regretful. They also thought Wang Yi was suspicious and violent, difficult to work with, so they led three thousand troops and encamped at Yun Kou, heading west to welcome Du Zeng. Wang Yi was attacked by Zheng Pan and his men and fled to Jiang’an. Du Zeng, together with Zheng Pan and the others, went north to welcome Diwu Yi to resist Wang Yi. Wang Yi led various armies to attack Du Zeng but was again defeated by him. Wang Dun suspected that Zheng Pan was acting on Tao Kan’s orders. Donning armor and grasping a spear, he was about to kill Tao Kan, going out and coming back several times. Tao Kan, with a stern expression, said: “You, sir, are a man of great talent and strategy, and should decide matters of the realm. Why are you so hesitant in this matter!” He then rose and went to the latrine. Counselor-in-chief Mei Tao and Chief Clerk Chen Ban said to Wang Dun: “Zhou Fang is related to Tao Kan by marriage; they are like left and right hands. Where is there a case of cutting off a man’s left hand while the right hand does not respond?” Wang Dun’s suspicions were thus dispelled. He then set up a grand banquet to see Tao Kan off. Tao Kan departed that same night. Wang Dun promoted Tao Kan’s son Tao Zhan to the position of Counselor.
Initially, when Jiao Province Inspector Gu Mi died, the people of the province recommended Gu Mi’s son Gu Shou to act as acting inspector. The Commander of the Guard, Liang Shuo, raised troops and attacked Gu Shou, killing him. Liang Shuo then monopolized the governance of Jiao Province. Wang Ji, because he had usurped Guang Province and feared Wang Dun would attack him, sought to obtain Jiao Province. It happened that Du Hong surrendered to Wang Ji, and Wang Dun wanted to use Wang Ji’s strength to attack Liang Shuo. He thus credited Wang Ji with the merit of subduing Du Hong and reassigned him as Inspector of Jiao Province. When Wang Ji reached Yulin, Liang Shuo welcomed Xiu Zhan, the son of the former Inspector Xiu Ze, to act as acting inspector to resist him. Wang Ji could not advance and then, together with Du Hong, Guangzhou General Wen Shao, and Jiao Province xiucai Liu Shen, plotted to return and retake Guang Province. When Tao Kan reached Shixing, the people of the province all said he should observe the situation and not advance rashly. Tao Kan did not listen and went directly to Guangzhou. All the commanderies and counties had already welcomed Wang Ji. Du Hong sent an envoy to feign surrender. Tao Kan, knowing his scheme, advanced and attacked Du Hong, defeating him, and captured Liu Shen at Xiaogui. He sent Inspector Xu Gao to attack Wang Ji, and Wang Ji fled. Wang Ji died of illness on the road. Xu Gao exhumed his corpse and beheaded it. All the generals requested to take advantage of the victory to attack Wen Shao. Tao Kan laughed and said: “My reputation for authority is already established; why send troops! A single letter will suffice to pacify him.” He then issued a document instructing Wen Shao. Wen Shao, frightened, fled but was captured at Shixing. Du Hong surrendered to Wang Dun, and Guangzhou was thus pacified.
Tao Kan, having no official duties in Guangzhou, would transport one hundred bricks outside his study in the morning and bring them back inside in the evening. When someone asked him the reason, he replied: “I am intent on recovering the Central Plains. If I become too comfortable and idle, I fear I will be unable to bear the burden of affairs, so I labor myself.”
Wang Dun appointed Du Hong as a general and favored and trusted him.
In the ninth month, Han ruler Liu Cong sent the Grand Herald to bestow bows and arrows upon Shi Le, issuing a decree appointing Shi Le as the Earl of Shandong, granting him the authority to conduct campaigns at his own discretion, appoint inspectors, generals, commandery governors, and county magistrates, and enfeoff marquises, submitting a summary report at the end of the year.
Han Grand Marshal Liu Yao invaded Beidi. The emperor issued an edict appointing Qu Yun as Commander-in-chief and General of the Cavalry to resist him. In winter, the tenth month, Suo Chen was appointed as Chief Administrator of the Masters of Writing and Commander-in-chief of the military affairs of the palace city. Liu Yao advanced and captured Fengyi. Administrator Liang Su fled to Wannian. Liu Yao then turned to invade Shang Commandery. Qu Yun left Huangbai City and stationed his troops at Lingwu, but because his forces were weak, he dared not advance.
The emperor repeatedly requisitioned troops from the Chancellor, Sima Bao. Those close to Sima Bao said, “When a poisonous snake bites the hand, a brave man cuts off the wrist. Now the barbarian rebels are at their peak; it is better to temporarily cut off the Long Road and watch for changes.” The Attendant-in-Office Pei Shen said, “Now the snake has bitten the head—can the head be cut off!” Sima Bao then appointed the General Who Calms the Army, Hu Song, as Acting Forward Commander, but only set out after all the troops had assembled. Qu Yun wanted to escort the emperor to Sima Bao’s location, but Suo Chen said, “If Sima Bao obtains the Son of Heaven, he will certainly indulge his private ambitions.” Thereupon the plan was abandoned. From then on, west of Chang’an, tribute was no longer sent to the court. The hundred officials starved and suffered hardship, gathering wild grain to survive.
A soldier of the Liangzhou army, Zhang Bing, obtained a jade seal with the engraved characters “Xingqi of the Emperor” and presented it to Zhang Shi. The assembled aides all came to congratulate him. Zhang Shi said, “This is not something a subject can retain.” He sent an envoy to present it to Chang’an.
In spring, the first month, the Minister over the Masses Liang Fen proposed posthumously honoring Wu Wang, Sima Yan. The Right Deputy Director Suo Chen and others cited the edict of Emperor Ming of Wei and considered it impermissible. Thus, they posthumously appointed him Grand Guardian, with the posthumous name Xiao.
The Regular Palace Attendants of Han, Wang Chen and Xuan Huai, along with the Palace Attendant-in-Ordinary Guo Yi and others, all enjoyed favor and held great power. The Lord of Han, Liu Cong, indulged in pleasure and feasting in the rear palace, sometimes remaining drunk for three days, sometimes not leaving the palace for a hundred days. Since the previous winter, he had not held court, entrusting all government affairs to the Chancellor, Liu Can. Only matters of life, death, and official appointments were reported to him by Wang Chen and others when they entered the palace. Wang Chen and his associates often did not report them but decided according to their own private interests. Consequently, meritorious old officials were sometimes not appointed, while sycophantic villains could be promoted to a rank of two thousand bushels within a few days. The armies campaigned year after year, and officers and soldiers received no rewards of money or silk, yet the households of the rear palace were bestowed gifts even upon their servants, often reaching tens of millions. Wang Chen and his retinue exceeded the princes in their carriages, clothing, and residences. Over thirty of their sons, younger brothers, and relatives by marriage served as commandery governors and county magistrates, all corrupt and cruel, becoming a scourge to the people. The entire family of Jin Zhun flattered and served them.
Guo Yi and Jin Zhun both harbored resentment against the Imperial Younger Brother, Liu Yi. Guo Yi said to the Chancellor, Liu Can, “Your Highness is the direct grandson of Emperor Guangwen and the direct son of the present emperor. There is no one in the empire who does not incline their hearts toward you. How can you plan to yield the empire to the Imperial Younger Brother! Moreover, I have heard that the Imperial Younger Brother and the Grand General have secretly plotted to raise a rebellion during the great feast on the third day of the third month. If the affair succeeds, they have promised to make the present emperor the Grand Emperor, the Grand General the Crown Prince, and also promised to make the General of the Guard the Great Shanyu. The three princes, being in positions free from suspicion and simultaneously holding heavy military power, cannot fail to succeed if they initiate a revolt. But the two princes covet temporary gain and disregard their father and elder brother. If the affair succeeds, where is the safety of the present emperor? As for Your Highness’s brothers, they need not be mentioned; the Eastern Palace, the Chancellorship, and the Shanyu should fall upon the heads of the Wuling brothers—how could they be willing to yield to others! Now the deadline for the calamity is extremely pressing; you should plan early. I have repeatedly spoken to the emperor, but the emperor values brotherly affection, and because I am a eunuch, he ultimately refuses to believe me. I hope Your Highness will not divulge this but secretly submit a memorial stating these circumstances. If Your Highness does not trust me, you can summon the Grand General’s Attendant-in-Office, Wang Pi, and the Commander of the Guard Army, Liu Hun. Pretend to show them favor, promise them amnesty if they confess, and question them. You will surely learn the truth.” Liu Can agreed. Guo Yi secretly said to Wang Pi and Liu Hun, “The two princes’ rebellious plans are already known to the emperor and the Chancellor—are you also involved in the conspiracy?” Startled, they said, “There is no such thing.” Guo Yi said, “This matter is already decided. I merely pity that your relatives and old friends will all be exterminated together!” Thereupon he wept, tears streaming down. The two men were very frightened and kowtowed in supplication. Guo Yi said, “I am considering this for you. Can you adopt my plan? When the Chancellor questions you, just say, ‘It is so.’ If he reproaches you for not having reported it earlier, say, ‘We truly committed a capital crime. But we thought that the emperor is generous and benevolent, and Your Highness is harmonious and kind; if we spoke and were not believed, we would fall into slander and unpredictable execution, so we dared not speak.’” Wang Pi and Liu Hun agreed. Liu Can summoned them for questioning. The two arrived at different times, but their statements were identical, so Liu Can believed it to be true.
Jin Zhun further urged Liu Can, saying, “Your Highness should reside in the Eastern Palace yourself, concurrently serving as Chancellor, so that the empire may early have a place of allegiance. Now, along the roads, people are saying that the Grand General and the General of the Guard wish to support the Imperial Younger Brother in staging a revolt, set for late spring. If the Imperial Younger Brother obtains the empire, Your Highness will have no place to stand.” Liu Can said, “What should be done, then?” Jin Zhun said, “If someone reports that the Imperial Younger Brother is plotting a revolt, the emperor will certainly not believe it. You should relax the restrictions on the Eastern Palace, allowing guests to come and go. The Imperial Younger Brother has always been fond of receiving scholars; he will certainly not be suspicious because of this. Some frivolous and shallow men cannot fail to cater to the Imperial Younger Brother’s intentions and devise plans for him. Then I, your servant, will publicly submit a memorial on Your Highness’s behalf setting forth his crimes. Your Highness will arrest those guests who associate with the Imperial Younger Brother, interrogate them, and once the confessions are complete, the emperor will have no reason to disbelieve.” Liu Can then ordered Bu Chou to withdraw his troops from the Eastern Palace.
The Junior Treasurer Chen Xiu and the General of the Left Guard Bu Chong were honest and upright, and had always detested Wang Chen and his associates. Even in public affairs, they never spoke with them. Wang Chen and his group hated them deeply. The Palace Attendant Bu Gan said to Chen Xiu and Bu Chong, “The power of Wang Chen and his ilk is sufficient to turn heaven and earth around. Judge for yourselves—how do you compare, in your closeness to worthies, with Dou Wu and Chen Fan?” Chen Xiu and Bu Chong said, “We are over fifty years old and have already reached high office. We lack only death! To die for loyalty and righteousness is to die in the proper place. How could we bow our heads and stoop to serve eunuchs! Go, Lord Bu, say no more!”
In the second month, the Lord of Han, Liu Cong, came out to the Shangqiu Pavilion and ordered the arrest of Chen Xiu, Bu Chong, as well as the Specially Advanced Qimu Da, the Grand Master of the Palace Gong Yu, the Masters of Writing Wang Yan and Tian Xin, and the Grand Minister of Agriculture Zhu Xie. He had them all executed—these were all men whom the eunuchs hated. Bu Gan wept as he remonstrated, saying, “Your Majesty is seeking worthy talents with a humble heart, yet in a single day you execute seven high ministers, all loyal and good men of the state—I fear this is impermissible! If Chen Xiu and the others were guilty, Your Majesty did not hand them over to the relevant departments to have their crimes openly investigated. How is the empire to know the truth! The edict is still here with me, your servant; I dare not publicly proclaim it. I hope Your Majesty will consider this carefully!” He then kowtowed until his blood flowed. Wang Chen rebuked Bu Gan, saying, “Attendant Bu, do you intend to resist the imperial decree!” Liu Cong swept his sleeves and entered, demoting Bu Gan to commoner status.
The Grand Tutor, the Prince of Hejian, Liu Yi, the Grand General, the Prince of Bohai, Liu Fu, the Imperial Secretary Chen Yuanda, and the Gold Purple Light-Lu, the Prince of Xihe, Wang Yan, and others all went to the palace gate to submit a memorial, remonstrating: “Wang Shen and his ilk have forged imperial edicts, deceiving the sun and moon. Inwardly they flatter Your Majesty, and outwardly they flatter the Chancellor. Their power and influence are equal to the sovereign’s; they have established many factions of evildoers, and their poison spreads throughout the world. They knew that Chen Xiu and others were loyal ministers, who exhausted their integrity for the state, and feared they would expose their treacherous wickedness, so they cleverly slandered them. Your Majesty, without careful investigation, immediately imposed the extreme penalty; grief pierces heaven and earth, and both wise and foolish are saddened and terrified. Now the remnants of Jin have not yet been eliminated; Ba and Shu do not submit; Shi Le plots to occupy Zhao and Wei; Cao Ni wishes to claim all of Qi as king. Where in Your Majesty’s vital organs and limbs is there no calamity! Yet you allow Wang Shen and his kind to foster chaos, to execute Wu Xian, to kill Bian Que, and I fear this will become an incurable disease deep in the vitals. Later, even if you wish to save it, it will be too late. Please dismiss Wang Shen and the others from their posts and hand them over to the proper authorities for punishment.” Liu Cong showed the memorial to Wang Shen and his followers, laughed, and said: “A group of children, led by Chen Yuanda, have become fools.” Wang Shen and the others kowtowed and wept, saying: “We petty men have been excessively favored by Your Majesty’s recognition and promotion, allowed to sweep and sprinkle the palace; but the princes and court officials hate us as if we were mortal enemies, and deeply resent Your Majesty as well. We wish our flesh to be placed in a tripod and boiled, so that the court will naturally become harmonious.” Liu Cong said: “These wild words are always like this; why should you resent them?” Liu Cong asked the Chancellor Liu Can about Wang Shen and his followers; Liu Can vigorously praised Wang Shen and the others as loyal and incorruptible. Liu Cong was very pleased and enfeoffed Wang Shen and the others as marquises.
The Grand Tutor Liu Yi again went to the palace gate to submit a memorial, remonstrating with all his might. Liu Cong was enraged, tore up the memorial with his own hands, and in the third month, Liu Yi died of anger and resentment. Liu Yi had always been loyal and upright; Chen Yuanda relied on him as support to be able to remonstrate with all his strength. When Liu Yi died, Chen Yuanda wept bitterly, saying: “‘When a worthy man departs, the state is afflicted.’ Since I can no longer remonstrate, how can I silently cling to life in disgrace?” He went home and committed suicide.
Previously, the Prince of Dai, Tuoba Yilu, loved his youngest son, Tuoba Biyan, and wished to establish him as heir. He made his eldest son, Tuoba Liuxiu, go out and live in Xincheng, and also deposed his mother. Tuoba Liuxiu had a fine horse that could travel five hundred li in a day. Tuoba Yilu took it and gave it to Tuoba Biyan. Tuoba Liuxiu came to pay court; Tuoba Yilu ordered him to bow to Tuoba Biyan, but Tuoba Liuxiu refused. Tuoba Yilu then had Tuoba Biyan sit in his own palanquin and sent people to lead attendants out for an excursion. Tuoba Liuxiu saw it from afar, thought it was Tuoba Yilu, and prostrated himself by the roadside to pay homage. When he came close, it was Tuoba Biyan. Tuoba Liuxiu, ashamed and angry, left. Tuoba Yilu summoned him, but he did not come. Tuoba Yilu, enraged, led an army to attack him but was defeated by Tuoba Liuxiu. Tuoba Yilu dressed in commoner’s clothes and fled among the people. A lowly woman recognized him, and he was then killed by Tuoba Liuxiu. Tuoba Pugen, who had originally been stationed on the border, heard of the disaster and came to the rescue. He attacked Tuoba Liuxiu and eliminated him.
Tuoba Pugen succeeded as prince, but there was great disorder in the state. The old and new factions were suspicious of each other and killed one another in turn. The General of the Left, Wei Xiong, and the General of Trust and Righteousness, Ji Dan, who had long assisted Tuoba Yilu, were relied upon by the people. They plotted to submit to Liu Kun, so they said to the people: “We have heard that the old people are afraid of the new people’s bravery and skill in battle, and wish to kill them all. What should we do?” The Jin people and the Wuhuan people were frightened and said: “In life or death, we will follow the two generals!” So together with Liu Zun, Liu Kun’s son who was a hostage, they led thirty thousand households of Jin and Wuhuan people, along with a hundred thousand head of horses, cattle, and sheep, and submitted to Liu Kun. Liu Kun was overjoyed and went in person to Pingcheng to pacify and receive them. Liu Kun’s military strength was thus revived.
Summer, fourth month. Tuoba Pugen died. His son had just been born; Tuoba Pugen’s mother, Weishi, established him as prince.
Zhang Shi issued an order: any official or commoner among his subordinates who could point out his faults would be rewarded with cloth, grain, and sheep. The Bandit-Catching Assistant of Gaochang, Wei Jin, said: “Now, as you govern affairs, Sir, matters great and small are all decided by yourself. Sometimes when you raise an army or issue an order, the prefectural offices and the court do not know about it. If there is a mistake by chance, there is no one to share the blame. The officials fear your authority and can only accept your decisions. In this way, even if you offer a thousand in gold, they ultimately dare not speak. I think you should slightly reduce your cleverness. In all government affairs, you should invite and consult the officials, let each fully express his views, then adopt and implement them. Then good words will naturally come; why must you offer rewards?” Zhang Shi was very pleased, followed his advice, and promoted Wei Jin three ranks. Zhang Shi sent General Wang Gai to lead five thousand infantry and cavalry to aid Chang’an, and also sent the tribute and account books from the various commanderies. The court issued an edict appointing Zhang Shi as Commander of All Military Affairs West of the Pass, and appointing Zhang Shi’s younger brother, Zhang Mao, as the Governor of Qinzhou.
Shi Le sent Shi Hu to attack Liu Yan at Linqiu. The Inspector of Youzhou, Duan Pidi, sent his younger brother, Duan Wenying, to rescue him. Shi Hu captured Linqiu; Liu Yan fled to Duan Wenying’s army. Shi Hu captured Liu Yan’s younger brother, Liu Qi, and returned.
The Inspector of Ningzhou, Wang Xun, was harsh and fierce and delighted in killing. Fifth month. The Grand Warden of Pingyi, Lei Zhao, and the Grand Warden of Pingle, Dong Ba, led over three thousand households in rebellion and surrendered to Cheng-Han.
Sixth month. On the first day of the month (ding-si), there was a solar eclipse.
Autumn, seventh month. The Han Grand Marshal, Liu Yao, besieged the Grand Warden of Beidi, Qu Chang. The Grand Commander, Qu Yun, led thirty thousand infantry and cavalry to rescue him. Liu Yao set fires around the city, the smoke rose and covered the sky, and he sent spies to deceive Qu Yun, saying: “The commandery city has already fallen; it’s too late to go!” The troops panicked and scattered. Liu Yao pursued Qu Yun, defeated him at the Panshi Valley; Qu Yun fled back to Lingwu, and Liu Yao then captured Beidi.
Qu Yun was kind-hearted by nature, but lacked authority and decisiveness, and liked to please people with ranks and titles. The Grand Warden of Xinping, Zhu Hui, the Grand Warden of Shifeng, Yang Xiang, the Grand Warden of Fufeng, Zhu Shuang, and the Grand Warden of Anding, Jiao Song, all concurrently held the titles of General of Expedition or Pacification, bore the imperial credentials, and were granted the posts of Attendant or Regular Attendant. The chiefs of village fortresses, even the lesser ones, were lent the title of General of Silver and Blue. But favors did not reach those below, so the generals became arrogant and the soldiers were disaffected. When Guanzhong was in crisis and disorder, Qu Yun sent an urgent appeal to Jiao Song; Jiao Song had always despised Qu Yun and said: “Wait until Qu Yun is in dire straits, then I will go to rescue him.”
Liu Yao advanced and reached Jingyang. All the cities north of the Wei River collapsed. Liu Yao captured the General of Established Might, Lu Chong, the Loose Cavalier Regular Attendant, Liang Wei, and the Junior Treasurer, Huangfu Yang. Liu Yao had long heard that Lu Chong was worthy, so he ordered him to be captured alive. When they met, he offered him wine and said: “Now that I have you, the world will not be difficult to pacify!” Lu Chong said: “I am a general of Jin. The state has fallen; I dare not seek to live. If I receive your kindness, letting me die quickly would be fortunate.” Liu Yao said: “He is a righteous man.” He gave him a sword and let him commit suicide. Liang Wei’s wife, Xin, was beautiful. Liu Yao summoned her and wished to marry her. Xin wept loudly and said: “My husband is already dead; according to righteousness, I cannot live alone. Moreover, how could a woman serve two husbands? Would you, Sir, use such a person?” Liu Yao said: “She is a chaste and upright woman.” He also allowed her to commit suicide, and buried them both with proper rites.
The Han ruler, Liu Cong, established the late Empress Zhang’s servant girl, Fan, as the Upper Empress. In addition to the three empresses, there were seven others who wore the empress’s seal and ribbon. Favorite courtiers held power and managed affairs, and punishments and rewards were chaotic. The Grand General, Liu Fu, repeatedly wept and remonstrated earnestly. Liu Cong was angry and said: “Do you want your father to die quickly? Why do you come before me wailing all day long?” Liu Fu, distressed and indignant, fell ill and died.
A great locust plague occurred in Hedong and Pingyang. Of the people, ten or five or six out of ten died or fled. Shi Le sent his general, Shi Yue, to lead twenty thousand cavalry to garrison Bingzhou, to recruit the wandering refugees. Two hundred thousand households submitted to him. Liu Cong sent an envoy to reprimand Shi Le, but Shi Le did not accept the order and secretly colluded with Cao Ni.
Eighth month. The Han Grand Marshal, Liu Yao, pressed forward and threatened Chang’an.
Ninth month. The Han ruler feasted his officials in the Guangji Hall and summoned the Imperial Younger Brother, Liu Yi. Liu Yi’s appearance was haggard, his hair and beard were white, and with tears flowing, he stated his guilt and apologized. Liu Cong also wept bitterly for him. Then they drank to their hearts’ content and were extremely merry, treating him as before.
Jiao Song, Zhu Hong, and Song Zhe all led their troops to rescue Chang'an. The scattered cavalier attendant Hua Ji supervised the armies of the four commanderies—Jingzhao, Fengyi, Hongnong, and Shangluo—and encamped at Bashang. They all feared the strength of the Han army and did not advance. The counselor-in-chief Sima Bao sent Hu Song to lead troops to enter and reinforce. At Lingtai, he attacked the Han grand marshal Liu Yao and defeated him. Hu Song, fearing that if the imperial prestige were revived, Qu Yun and Suo Chen would become too powerful, led the armies of the various commanderies west of the city to encamp north of the Wei River without advancing, and then returned to Huaili.
Liu Yao captured the outer city of Chang'an. Qu Yun and Suo Chen withdrew to defend the small city and strengthen themselves. Communication was cut off inside and out, and the city was extremely famished. One peck of rice was worth two liang of gold. People ate each other; more than half of the dead had perished, and flight could not be prevented. Only the one thousand righteous soldiers from Liangzhou held fast to the death without wavering. The Imperial Granary had several dozen lumps of distiller's yeast. Qu Yun ground them into powder and boiled them into gruel to supply the emperor, but soon it was also consumed. In winter, in the eleventh month, the emperor, weeping, said to Qu Yun: "Now we are impoverished and in dire straits to this extent, with no rescue from outside. I should endure the shame and surrender the city in order to let the scholar-officials and common people live." Then he sighed and said: "Those who have ruined my great plans are the two gentlemen, Qu and Suo!" He sent the attendant-in-ordinary Zong Chang to deliver a letter of surrender to Liu Yao. Suo Chen secretly detained Zong Chang and sent his son to say to Liu Yao: "Now the city's food can still support us for a year, and it will not be easy to conquer. If you promise me, Suo Chen, the position of General of Chariots and Cavalry, with the rank of the Three Excellencies, and a ten-thousand-household commandery duke, I will request to surrender the city." Liu Yao killed him and sent the head, saying: "The imperial army acts according to righteousness. I have led troops for fifteen years and have never used deceit to defeat others. I always exhaust my military strength and push to the utmost before I take it. Now Suo Chen's words are like this; the evil men under heaven are all the same. I have killed him for you. If your troops and food are truly not exhausted, you may hold out as best you can. If the food is used up and your strength is weak, you should also early awaken to the Mandate of Heaven."
On the jiawu day, Zong Chang reached Liu Yao's camp. On the yihui day, the emperor rode in a goat-drawn cart, bared his upper body, held a jade disc in his mouth, and pulled a coffin behind him as he went out from the eastern gate to surrender. The assembled officials wailed loudly, clinging to the cart and pulling the emperor's hands. The emperor also grieved beyond control. The imperial censor-in-chief, Feng Yiren Ji Lang, sighed and said: "My wisdom cannot plan, my courage cannot die. How can I bear to follow my lord and serve the northern bandits!" Thereupon he committed suicide. Liu Yao burned the coffin, accepted the jade disc, and sent Zong Chang to escort the emperor back to the palace. On the dingyou day, he moved the emperor, along with the dukes and ministers and those below them, to his camp. On the xinchou day, he sent them to Pingyang. On the renyin day, the Han ruler Liu Cong came to the Guangji Hall. The emperor knelt and kowtowed before him. Qu Yun lay prostrate on the ground and wept bitterly; when they tried to lift him, he could not rise. Liu Cong became angry and imprisoned him. Qu Yun committed suicide. Liu Cong appointed the emperor as Grand Master of Splendid Happiness and enfeoffed him as Marquis Huaian. He appointed the grand marshal Liu Yao as Acting Holder of the Yellow Axe, Grand Commander-in-Chief, Commander of All Military Affairs West of the Pass, and Grand Preceptor, enfeoffing him as King of Qin. He granted a general amnesty and changed the era name to Linjia. Because Qu Yun was loyal and steadfast, he was posthumously appointed General of Chariots and Cavalry, with the posthumous title Jiemin Hou. Because Suo Chen was disloyal, he was beheaded in the marketplace. Shangshu Liang Yun, attendant-in-ordinary Liang Jun, and others, along with various commandery governors, were all killed by Liu Yao. Hua Ji fled to the Southern Mountains.
Gan Bao commented: "In former times, Emperor Xuan of the Gao clan, relying on his great talent and vast capacity, arose in accord with the times. His nature was deep and hidden like a city wall, yet he could be generous and unhurried in accommodating talent. He used power to control affairs, yet he could understand people and was good at selecting them. Thus the people submitted to the talented, and the foundation of the great enterprise began to be laid. Emperor Shi inherited the foundation, and Emperor Tai inherited the great undertaking. Both abolished divergent schemes in order to glorify the achievements of their predecessors. By the time of Emperor Wu, he ascended the throne, treated his subordinates with benevolence, used frugality to make wealth sufficient, was peaceful without being lax, and was generous yet decisive. He covered the old territories of Tang and Shun and promulgated the calendar in the eight distant wildernesses. At that time, there was the proverb, 'There are no poor people under heaven.' Although the era of great peace was not fully realized, it was enough to show that the people were content with their lives.
After Emperor Wu died, before the soil on his grave was dry, calamities followed one after another. The imperial clansmen had no assistance in defending the cities. The three dukes had no dignity that all looked up to. In the morning they were Yi Yin and the Duke of Zhou; by evening they became Jie and Robber Zhi. The state's government was repeatedly transferred by rebellious men. The palace troops scattered to the four directions. The local governors had no stable strongholds. The barrier gates were not as firm as a bundle of reeds. The Rong and Jie peoples established their own imperial titles, and the two emperors lost their dignity. Why? Because the establishment of the heir to the throne lost its authority, the entrustment of regency was not to the right persons, propriety, righteousness, integrity, and shame were not upheld, and expedient decrees were too numerous.
A foundation that is broad is hard to topple; roots that are deep are hard to pull out. When principle and order are in place, there is no confusion. When glued together firmly, there is no shifting. Those who possessed the realm in ancient times were able to endure long for this reason. The Zhou dynasty, from Hou Ji who loved the people, passed through sixteen kings before King Wu could rule the realm. Its accumulation of foundation and establishment of roots were so solid. Now, the rise of the Jin dynasty—its founding of the foundation and establishment of the roots—was fundamentally different from previous dynasties. Added to this, the court lacked men of pure virtue, and the villages had no elders of single-minded loyalty. Customs were licentious and strange, and the standards of honor and shame were lost. Those who studied revered Zhuangzi and Laozi and disparaged the Six Classics. Those who debated valued emptiness and unruliness as clever and belittled integrity and restraint. Those who cultivated themselves considered indulgence and filth as wisdom and scorned integrity and faithfulness. Those who sought office regarded temporary gain as precious and despised abiding by the right way. Those in office looked upon an empty, carefree attitude as noble and laughed at diligence and respect. Therefore, when Liu Song repeatedly discussed the way of governance, and Fu Xian often corrected wickedness and uprightness, they were both called common officials. Those who relied on empty carelessness and flattered the mindless were all famous throughout the empire. As for those like King Wen, who had no time to eat until the sun was slanting westward, or Zhongshan Fu, who was unremitting from morning till night, they were all jointly ridiculed and dismissed as dust! Thus, praise and blame confused the essence of good and evil. Passions and evil desires ran rampant on the road of wealth and profit. Those who selected men chose offices for individuals. Those who held office chose benefits for themselves. The sons and younger brothers of noble and powerful families exceeded their ranks, not bound by seniority. In the tumultuous world, all were men scrambling and competing. The ranks of officials numbered in the hundreds and thousands, with no one acting to yield office. Liu Shi wrote the 'Discussion on Esteeming Yielding,' yet no one heeded it. Liu Song established the nine-grade system, yet it could not be implemented. The women did not understand women's work but indulged their passions in action. Some were rebellious toward their parents-in-law, some killed their serving maids. Their fathers and elder brothers did not blame them, and no one in the world criticized them. Propriety, law, punishment, and government—from this point, they were greatly ruined. 'When a state is about to perish, its foundation must first be overturned'—this probably describes such a situation!
Thus, observe the behavior of Ruan Ji and understand why the teachings of ritual collapsed and became lax. Examine the disputes between Yu Chun and Jia Chong and see the many perversities of the three dukes. Consider the merit of pacifying Wu and know the generals' lack of humility. Reflect on Guo Qin's strategies and realize that the Rong and Di had an opportunity. Peruse the words of Fu Xuan and Liu Yi and obtain the wickedness of all officials. Verify Fu Xian's memorials and the discussion of the 'Treatise on the God of Money' and see the prominence of favor and bribery. The people's customs and the state's power were already like this. Even if a ruler of middling talent who observed the established laws governed, he would still fear causing calamity—how much more so when our Emperor Hui, with his dissolute virtue, ruled the realm! Emperor Huai inherited the throne amid calamities and was constrained by powerful ministers. After Emperor Min's exile and displacement, he vainly held an empty title. The realm's situation was already lost; unless a hero renowned in the world appeared, it could not be regained!"
Shi Le besieged Han Ju, the Grand Administrator of Leping, at Diancheng. Han Ju sought help from Liu Kun. Liu Kun had just acquired the troops of Tuoba Yilu and wanted to use their momentum to attack Shi Le. Ji Dan and Wei Xiong admonished him, saying: "These men are subjects of Jin, but they have long been stranded in foreign lands and are unfamiliar with your lordship's virtue and trustworthiness; I fear they will be difficult to employ. It would be better for now to gather the surplus grain of the Xianbei within, seize the cattle and sheep of the Hu bandits without, close the gates and hold the strategic passes, engage in farming, and rest the troops. Wait until they are transformed and return to righteousness, then use them—then no achievement will be impossible!" Liu Kun did not listen. He mobilized all his troops and ordered Ji Dan to lead twenty thousand infantry and cavalry as the vanguard, while Liu Kun encamped at Guangmu to provide support.
When Shi Le heard that Ji Dan was approaching, he prepared to meet him in battle. Someone said: "Ji Dan's troops are strong and sharp; their edge cannot be withstood. It would be better to temporarily lead the army to avoid them, deepen the moats and heighten the walls, to blunt their momentum—this will surely ensure total safety." Shi Le said: "Although Ji Dan's army is numerous, they have traveled far and are exhausted; their commands are not unified—what strength and sharpness is there to speak of! Now the enemy is about to arrive—how can we abandon the field and leave? Once the main army moves, is it easy to turn back halfway? If Ji Dan takes advantage of our retreat to press forward, then we will be too busy fleeing and scattering to manage, how could we deepen moats and heighten walls? This is the path to self-destruction." He immediately executed the speaker. He appointed Kong Chang as Commander of the Vanguard and ordered the three armies: "Whoever lags behind will be beheaded!" Shi Le occupied a strategic point, set up decoy troops on the mountains, placed two ambush forces in front, and sent out light cavalry to engage Ji Dan, feigning defeat and fleeing. Ji Dan let his army pursue, and they entered the ambush. Shi Le attacked Ji Dan's army from front and rear, routing them completely, capturing tens of thousands of armor and horses. Ji Dan and Wei Xiong led over a thousand cavalry and fled to Daijun. Han Ju abandoned the city and fled. The Bingzhou region was shaken with fear.
On the first day of the twelfth month, the day of yimao, there was a solar eclipse.
Li Hong, the Chief Clerk of the Excellency of Works, led Bingzhou to surrender to Shi Le. Liu Kun was caught between advance and retreat, not knowing what to do. Duan Pidi sent a messenger with a letter inviting him. On the day of jiwei, Liu Kun led his troops from Feihu to Jicheng. When Duan Pidi saw Liu Kun, he was very close and respectful, forming a marriage alliance with him and becoming sworn brothers. Shi Le moved the people of Yangqu and Leping to Xiangguo, installed local officials, and then returned.
Kong Chang attacked Ji Dan at Daijun and killed him.
Kong Chang and others attacked the bandit leaders Ma Yan and Feng □ for a long time without success. Several tens of thousands of refugee households from Sizhou, Jizhou, Bingzhou, and Yanzhou were in Liaoxi, calling to each other, and the people could not settle down in peace. Shi Le asked the Marquis of Puyang, Zhang Bin, for advice. Zhang Bin said: "Ma Yan and Feng □ originally have no deep enmity with you. The refugees all have a longing for their homeland. Now if you withdraw the army and return, select good officials to pacify and attract them, then the bandits of Youzhou and Jizhou will be cleared up before long, and the refugees in Liaoxi will come to submit one after another." Shi Le then recalled Kong Chang and others, appointed Li Hui, the Magistrate of Wusui, as the Protector of Yibei, concurrently serving as Grand Administrator of Gaoyang. Ma Yan's soldiers had long been in awe of Li Hui's prestige and virtue; many betrayed Ma Yan and submitted to Li Hui. Ma Yan, in fear, fled and drowned himself. Feng □ led his troops to surrender. Li Hui moved to Yijing to live, and the refugees who came to submit to him filled the roads continuously. Shi Le was delighted, enfeoffed Li Hui as the Viscount of Yiyang, increased Zhang Bin's fief by a thousand households, and promoted him to General of the Vanguard; Zhang Bin firmly declined and did not accept.
The Chancellor, Sima Rui, upon hearing that Chang'an had fallen, led his troops out and camped in the open, personally donned armor, and issued proclamations to all regions, setting a date for a northern expedition. Because water transport delayed the deadline, on the day of bingyin, he executed the Transport Supervisor, Chunyu Bo. When the executioner wiped the sword on the pillar, blood flowed backward upward, reaching over two zhang to the top of the pillar before falling. Onlookers all considered this a wrongful death. The Chancellor's Director of Justice, Liu Wei, submitted a memorial saying: "Chunyu Bo's crime did not warrant death; I request the dismissal of Attendant-in-Ordinary Zhou Yan and others from their posts." Thereupon, General of the Right Wang Dao and others submitted a memorial taking responsibility and requesting dismissal from their positions. Sima Rui said: "The errors in governance and punishment are all due to my own dim-wittedness." He did not hold anyone accountable.
Liu Wei's nature was rigid and harsh, and many of the famous scholars of the time were impeached by him. Sima Rui pardoned them all, and thus the resentment of the masses focused on Liu Wei. The Southern General-in-Chief Wang Han, the elder brother of Wang Dun, relying on the strength and prominence of his clan, was arrogant and unrestrained. On one occasion, he requested appointments for over twenty staff officers and magistrates, most of whom were unqualified. Liu Wei impeached Wang Han with very harsh wording. Although the matter was shelved, the Wang clan deeply resented him.
The Chancellor, Sima Rui, appointed Shao Xu as the Inspector of Jizhou. Shao Xu's son-in-law, Liu Xia of Guangping, gathered followers between the Yellow and Ji Rivers. Sima Rui appointed Liu Xia as the Grand Administrator of Pingyuan.
Tuoba Pugen's son also died. The people of the state established his uncle, Yulü, as their chieftain.