Confucius said, "If you cannot achieve the path of moderation, then you might as well be unrestrained and uninhibited!" He also said, "Those who are unrestrained are brave in their ventures, and those who are uninhibited have their limits." This probably means that he abandoned the prudent approach and chose the extreme. However, having limits also implies that there are things one must pursue; since one is brave in ventures, it also implies not taking everything. Consequently, people's characters diverge into different schools of thought, leading to varying definitions of right and wrong.
In ancient times, there were many individuals who were unconventional and made a name for themselves. Some had aspirations as unyielding as metal, able to resist oppression; some had unwavering wills like the frost of winter, willing to endure some grievances. Some forged friendships, supported one another, and shared common ideals; for the sake of righteousness, they dared to face danger with a fearless attitude, treating death as a return home. Although their actions weren’t always tactful or polished, their character and behavior are worthy of our study and admiration. However, their experiences and deeds are diverse and difficult to classify one by one; a few words cannot adequately summarize. If written, there may be omissions; if written as a biography, it may lack coherence. Because although their reputations and deeds are different, their integrity is commendably high, so I have compiled them into a collection titled "The Independent Path," in hopes of addressing some gaps in historical records and recording those overlooked noble individuals.
Qiao Xuan, styled Junhuang, was a native of Langzhong in Bajun. He had a keen interest in learning from a young age, capable of explaining the I Ching and the Spring and Autumn Annals. He served as an official in the local government. In the second year of Emperor Cheng's Yongshi reign, a solar eclipse occurred, and the court issued an edict to recommend individuals who were honest, humble, virtuous, and courteous. The local authorities recommended Qiao Xuan, and he went to the capital to take the imperial examination, excelling in the essay portion, and was appointed as a court official.
The emperor began to construct the Qimen, often going in disguise for private visits. He appointed Zhao Feiyan as empress, who was both favored and jealous, which led to the premature deaths of many princes. Qiao Xuan advised in a memorial, saying: "It is said that emperors inherit the mandate of heaven, continue the ancestral legacy, safeguard the country, and ensure the continuation of descendants, with the most important being the heir. Therefore, the 'Book of Changes' contains hexagrams about prosperity, and the 'Book of Songs' praises the blessing of having many descendants. Your Majesty has not yet appointed a crown prince, and the realm is eagerly awaiting, yet you seem indifferent to important state affairs, instead, you focus solely on private visits and favoring those who deceive you, showing favoritism towards the unscrupulous. I have heard that princes born in the harem often die prematurely. Hearing this fills me with deep sorrow and concern, as I remain ever mindful of the country's affairs. If security measures are lax, disasters may occur. In case a drunken troublemaker causes chaos on the streets, lacking dignity and respect for hierarchy, wouldn't this resemble the rise of barbarians and rebels at the gates of the capital? I hope Your Majesty will consider the great affairs of the world, take care of Your Majesty's health, treat the palace concubines with fairness, ensure the preservation of endless blessings, and the people will be profoundly grateful!" At that time, various calamities continued to plague the realm, Xuan frequently submitted memorials outlining the situation, but the emperor paid him no heed, resulting in a prolonged lack of promotion. He was eventually promoted to the position of Minister of Ceremonies, but he resigned from his position following the death of his younger brother.
In the first year of Emperor Ping's reign, a solar eclipse occurred, prompting officials to recommend upright and outspoken individuals. Da Honglu Zuo Xian recommended Xuan to present his strategies to the imperial court. Xuan was then reappointed as an official and later promoted to a higher position. Four years later, the court selected eight individuals knowledgeable in political affairs and who could educate the populace, and Xuan was chosen. He was appointed as an envoy with the emperor's credentials, and along with others, traveled across the country to inspect local customs, with the authority to reward or punish as needed. Before he could complete his task, Wang Mang seized power, prompting Xuan to hastily abandon his duties, assume a new name and identity, and secretly return home to live in seclusion.
Later, Gongsun Shu declared himself emperor in the Shu region and repeatedly invited Xuan to serve in his court, but Xuan refused. Gongsun Shu sent messengers with generous gifts to persuade him to come; if Xuan continued to refuse, he would be forced to take poison. The governor personally brought the emperor's edict to Xuan's home, saying, "Your esteemed character is widely recognized, and the court values you greatly. You should not decline any further, or you could bring calamity upon yourself." Xuan looked skyward and sighed, "Emperor Tang Yao was a wise ruler, and Xu You was ashamed to hold office; King Wu of Zhou was a noble ruler, and Boyi would rather starve than hold office. What kind of people were they, and what kind of person am I? As long as I uphold my aspirations and preserve my integrity, what is there to regret in death?" And he drank the poison. Xuan's son, Ying, desperately wept and begged the governor, saying, "Currently, the country faces strong enemies in the east, with the army engaged in battles everywhere. The country's finances and military supplies may often be insufficient. I am willing to offer a fortune from our family’s wealth to save my father's life." The governor pleaded on his behalf, and Gongsun Shu finally agreed. Xuan was then able to withdraw to the countryside, where he remained until after Gongsun Shu's death.
During that time, the war dragged on year after year, and most people were unable to study peacefully. Only Xuan devoted himself to teaching his sons the scriptures diligently. In the eleventh year of the Jianwu era, Xuan passed away. The following year, the world was finally at peace, and Xuan's brother Qing submitted a formal memorial to the court detailing the situation. Emperor Guangwu held him in high regard, ordered a memorial ceremony in Xuan's county, and ordered all the money and property that had been confiscated from Xuan's family to be returned.
At the same time, there was a man named Fei Yi from Jianwei who refused to serve under Gongsun Shu. He deliberately made himself look filthy and acted crazy to avoid him, hiding out in the remote mountains and forests for over a decade. After Gongsun Shu's defeat, Fei Yi emerged and ultimately rose to the position of Prefect of Hepu.
Xuan's son Ying excelled at interpreting the Book of Changes (Yijing) and later passed on his knowledge to Emperor Xian of Han, eventually becoming the Commander of the North Palace Guards.
Li Ye, also known as Juyou, was from Guanghan and Zitong. He was ambitious from a young age, upright, and uncompromising. He studied the Book of Songs under the scholar Xu Huang. During the Yuanshi period, he was recommended as a Mingjing and subsequently took up a government position.
It is said that Wang Mang usurped power and became the regent. There was a man named Yan Ye who stepped down from his official position because of illness, shutting himself away at home and ignoring the commands of the local authorities. The Prefect Liu Xian had a fiery temper and sent men to forcibly bring him in. Yan Ye reluctantly went despite his illness. When Liu Xian saw him, he was furious and reprimanded him, saying, "A wise man does not shy away from danger, just like shooting arrows in a crowded marketplace; the one with the weakest fate is the first to fall. I've heard of your great reputation, Yan Ye, and wanted you to come out and govern the place, but you feigned illness to refuse?" After that, he directly threw Yan Ye into prison, claiming it was for his recovery, but in truth, he intended to kill him.
Later, someone advised Liu Xian, saying, "The State of Zhao killed the bellowing calf, and Confucius saw the river overflowing and sighed. I've never heard of using prison to coerce someone into serving just to find talented individuals!" Liu Xian listened and agreed, so he released Yan Ye and even recommended him to be appointed as Fang Zheng (an official position). Later, Wang Mang regarded Yan Ye as a drinking buddy. Due to poor health, Yan Ye never took office and simply hid in the mountains, living in hiding until after Wang Mang died.
When Gongsun Shu declared himself emperor and heard of Yan Ye's talent, he sent someone to invite him out, hoping to make him a scholar. Yan Ye still refused, using illness as an excuse. Several years passed, and Gongsun Shu felt embarrassed, so he sent the Grand Honglu Yinyu Rong with poisoned wine, on the emperor's orders to pressure Yan Ye into compliance: if he came out to serve as an official, he would be made a marquis; if he did not come out, he would be given the poisoned wine. Yinyu Rong earnestly advised, "Now that the world is in chaos, who can tell what's right and wrong? You're just one person, why get involved in this mess! The court has always admired your reputation, keeping a position open for you for seven years and not forgetting the seasonal delicacies. You should repay the favor, think about your future generations, and achieve fame and fortune—wouldn't that be great! If you stay hidden in the mountains for years, it'll just make people suspicious of you, bringing trouble your way. That's not a good plan!"
Yan Ye sighed and said, "I will not go to a country in danger, nor will I remain in a chaotic country. I cannot sacrifice my integrity for unjust causes. A true gentleman should confront danger without hesitation; how can you tempt me with high positions and wealth?" Yin Rong, seeing Yan Ye's resolute attitude, advised him, "You should think of your family." Yan Ye replied, "A true man's decision has long been made in his heart; why should I even think about my wife and children?" After saying this, he drank the poison and took his own life. When Gong Sun Shu learned of Yan Ye's death, he was shocked and feared being branded a murderer of a virtuous man, so he sent envoys to mourn and provided a hundred pieces of cloth for funeral expenses. Yan Ye's son, Yan Hui, refused to accept these rewards.
Later, the Shu region was brought under control, and Emperor Guangwu issued an edict to commend Yan Ye, documenting his integrity and valor in the "Yi Bu Ji," and had a portrait and biography made for him. Initially, during the reign of Emperor Ping of Han, Wang Hao, a man from Shu County, served as the magistrate of Meiyang County, with Wang Jia as a court official. Later, when Wang Mang usurped the throne, Wang Hao and Wang Jia both resigned and returned home. When Gong Sun Shu declared himself emperor, he initially seized their wives and children. The messenger said to Wang Jia, "Hurry and pack up; your wife and children can be saved." Wang Jia replied, "If even dogs and horses can recognize their masters, how much more so can humans!" Wang Hao took his own life by slitting his throat and handed his head to the messenger. In a fit of rage, Gong Sun Shu executed Wang Hao's entire family. Hearing this, Wang Jia let out a deep sigh and lamented, "It’s too late!" He then unsheathed his sword and took his life before the messenger.
Ren Yong and Feng Xin from Jianwei County both enjoyed studying ancient classics. Gongsun Shu repeatedly summoned them, promising high official positions and generous rewards, but they feigned blindness to avoid the chaos of war. Ren Yong's wife had previously had an affair with someone else, but kept it from Ren Yong; when she saw her son fall into a well, she coldly refused to save him. Feng Xin's maid also had an illicit relationship with him. Upon hearing that Gongsun Shu had been killed, they washed their faces, tidied up, and said, "The world is at peace, my eyes are clear now." Those who had acted improperly all took their own lives. Emperor Guangwu heard about this and summoned them, but they had all died due to illness.
Liu Mao, with the courtesy name Ziwei, was from Taiyuan Jinyang. He lost his father at a young age and lived alone caring for his mother. The family lived in poverty, and he supported his mother through physical labor, becoming well-known for his filial piety in the village. As he grew up, he studied and taught the Book of Rites, with hundreds of people often coming to listen to his lectures. During the reign of Emperor Ai of Han, he was recommended as a filial and upright official, and he received several promotions, eventually becoming the Marquis of Wuyuan. After his mother passed away, he resigned from his post and returned home to observe the mourning period. After the mourning period, he served as the magistrate of Juyang County. When Wang Mang seized power, Liu Mao resigned from his post and hid in the Hongnong Mountains to teach.
In the second year of Jianwu, Liu Mao returned to his hometown and became a county official. At that time, the Red Eyebrow Army, numbering over 200,000, attacked the counties, killing officials and government personnel. Liu Mao carried Prefect Sun Fu on his back and hid in an empty cave by climbing over the wall, thus managing to escape danger. That evening, they managed to escape to Yu County. They hid during the day and foraged for food at night. After over a hundred days, the Red Eyebrow Army retreated, and they returned to the government office. The following year, the court issued a decree calling for righteous scholars nationwide. Sun Fu recommended Liu Mao to the court, saying, "I was previously attacked by the Red Eyebrow Army, and officials and civilians perished while fleeing to the mountains. I was surrounded by bandits and in imminent danger. Thanks to Liu Mao, who carried me over the city wall to escape to Yu County, Liu Mao and his brother risked their lives to bring us food through gunfire and over mountains, allowing my wife and me to survive. Liu Mao's loyalty and righteousness are truly commendable. He should be promoted to inspire righteous individuals everywhere." The court immediately summoned Liu Mao and appointed him as an official, and later promoted him to Zongzheng Cheng, and ultimately served as a palace attendant, where he passed away while in office.
In the Yanping era, hundreds of Xianbei cavalry invaded Yuyang. The Prefect of Yuyang, Zhang Xian, led his troops to pursue them to the border. Seeing the Xianbei camp with smoke rising and fire flickering in the distance, Zhang Xian quickly ordered his troops to pursue. The Military Officer Yan Shou suspected an ambush and urged Zhang Xian not to act impulsively, but Zhang Xian didn't listen and ordered the soldiers to charge. Yan Shou had no choice but to comply and ended up falling into the ambush, getting hit by more than ten arrows and sacrificing himself heroically on the battlefield. Zhang Xian drew his sword and fought to pursue the retreating enemies, but he couldn't control the situation and was shot by the enemy. The Registrar Wei Fu and the Assistant Officer Xu Xian hurried to protect Zhang Xian, but both were ultimately killed by the Xianbei. The court deeply regretted the loyalty and bravery of Yan Shou and others, issued a decree of commendation, rewarded them generously, and appointed their sons to official positions.
In the second year of Yongchu, the infamous bandit Bi Hao and his gang invaded the Pingyuan region. The Magistrate Liu Xiong led his troops on boats to pursue them. Upon reaching the Yanci River, they fought a fierce battle against the bandits. Liu Xiong was defeated and captured, and Bi Hao killed him with a spear. At that moment, a junior official knelt and pleaded for mercy, willing to die in place of Liu Xiong. However, Bi Hao and the others spared Liu Xiong but killed the junior official instead, piercing him from the chest to the back with the spear, killing him instantly. The Prefect of Dongjun later captured Bi Hao and the others and reported the events to the court. The court expressed profound sorrow for the bravery of the junior official, awarded his family two hundred thousand coins, and appointed his father to an official position.
Wen Xu, whose courtesy name was Cifang, hailed from Qi County in Taiyuan. He held a position in the government. In the second year of Jianwu, after Cavalry Captain Gongli Shu led his troops to pacify the northern territories, he came to Taiyuan, searching everywhere for talented individuals and inquiring about their strategies and tactics. Gongli Shu found Wen Xu to be outstanding and recommended him in a memorial. Wen Xu was subsequently summoned to serve as an Imperial Censor and was later promoted to Wuling Commandant, but he resigned due to illness.
Six years later, Wen Xu was appointed as an envoy and subsequently promoted to Protector of the Qiang. While inspecting Xiangwu, he was kidnapped by Gou Yu, a general under Kui Xiao. Gou Yu said to Wen Xu, "If you join forces with me, we can plot to take over the world together!" Wen Xu replied, "I have accepted the important task of the country and should be loyal to the country until death. I will not fear death or betray the trust the country has placed in me!" Gou Yu and others tried to persuade Wen Xu, but Wen Xu, naturally strong, became furious and rebuked Gou Yu and the others, "You bandits dare to threaten the generals of the Han Dynasty!" Wen Xu struck down several bandits with his staff, and the bandits wanted to kill him. Gou Yu intervened and said, "This is a man of integrity; he is willing to die for his country. We should give him a sword to end his own life." Wen Xu took the sword, stuffed his beard into his mouth, looked around, and said, "Since I am to be killed by bandits, I cannot dirty the land with my beard." With that, he took his own life with the sword.
Han Zun and Wang Zhong, two officials, were responsible for bringing back the body of Liu Xing, the younger brother of Emperor Guangwu, for burial. When Emperor Guangwu heard about it, he felt a deep sense of pity and sent Wang Zhong to escort Liu Xing back to Luoyang for burial. He also granted him a piece of land on the outskirts of the city as a grave site, and rewarded him with a large amount of grain and cloth, and granted official titles to Liu Xing's three sons. His eldest son, Liu Shou, after completing the prescribed mourning period, went on to become the Marquis of Zouping. Later, Liu Shou dreamt that his brother said in the dream, "I have been away as a guest for a long time; I want to go back to my hometown." Upon hearing this, Liu Shou immediately resigned and submitted a request to retire and return home to lay his brother to rest. The Emperor approved, and he moved his brother's grave back to their hometown.
Peng Xiu, also known as Ziyang, was a native of Pilin County, Kuaiji Commandery. When he was fifteen years old, his father, who was serving in the commandery, took a break and brought Peng Xiu home. On the way, they were robbed by bandits. Thinking quickly, Peng Xiu drew his sword, walked up to the leader of the bandits, and said, "If you humiliate my father, I will die. Aren't you afraid of death?" The bandits, seeing this, thought, "This boy is a man of honor; we can't force him." So they apologized and let them go. The villagers held him in high regard.
Later, Peng Xiu became an official in the county. At that time, the western prefect, Zai You, was acting as the governor. He arrested the jailer of Wu County for a minor mistake and planned to kill him. The registrar Zhong Liyi urged him to reconsider, but Zai You was furious and intended to arrest Zhong Liyi, planning to punish him. Other officials dared not speak. Peng Xiu stepped forward and bowed to Zai You in the courtyard, saying, "Sir, you are so angry with the registrar, may I ask what he did wrong?" Zai You replied, "I taught him for three days, but he refused to follow orders from the start; isn't that a mistake?" Peng Xiu bowed again and said, "In the past, the former Prime Minister frankly advised the Marquis, and Zhu Yun climbed the railing to give frank advice. Without a wise ruler, how could loyal ministers exist? Now, fortunately, sir, you are a wise ruler, and the registrar remains a loyal minister." Upon hearing this, Zai You pardoned Zhong Liyi and also acquitted the jailer of his crime.
Later, Peng Xiu was appointed as an official by the state. At that time, Zhang Zilin led a rebellion with hundreds of bandits. The county informed the state and requested that Peng Xiu be appointed as the magistrate of Wu County. Peng Xiu and the governor led troops to suppress the bandits. When the bandits spotted the official troops' chariots and horses, they shot arrows indiscriminately, like rain. Peng Xiu protected the governor but was shot by a stray arrow and died, while the governor was unharmed. The bandits had heard of Peng Xiu's kindness and reputation, so they killed the archer who shot him, and the rest surrendered. They declared, "We surrendered because of Mr. Peng, not the governor."
Suo Lufang, styled Junyang, was a man from Dongjun. He taught "Shangshu" to more than a thousand people. At first, he held the position of a doorkeeper in the county. During the Gengshi era, the court sent envoys to inspect the local area, and the governor had committed an offense and was facing execution. At this time, Suo Lufang stood up and said, "The reason why the people hate Wang Mang and hope for the revival of the Han Dynasty is because the policies of the Han Dynasty were generous and benevolent! But wherever the envoys go, the common people do not feel this kindness. I don't want to say too much, but I'm worried that people everywhere will become fearful and suspicious, leading to chaos. Rather than let the innocent be punished, it's better to punish the guilty. I am willing to die for the governor!" After saying this, he stepped forward to accept his fate. The envoy found his words persuasive, so he pardoned him, and Suo Lufang's reputation grew from then on.
In the sixth year of Jianwu, the court summoned him to be the magistrate of Luoyang, where he distinguished himself and gained notoriety. Later, when he fell ill, he requested to resign. He was appointed as a counselor and often advised the emperor, but later stepped down due to his illness. Towards the end of the Jianwu period, the court summoned him again, but he declined the summons. Emperor Guangwu sent people to carry him to Nangong Yuntai in a carriage, granted him two thousand bushels of grain, permitted him to return home, and appointed his son as a junior official in the imperial court. Finally, he passed away peacefully at home.
Zhou Jia, styled Huiwen, was from Ancheng in Runan. His great-grandfather Zhou Yan served as a minor official in the county during the reign of Emperor Xuan, holding the position of a court clerk. At that time, the governor wanted to wrongfully execute someone; Zhou Yan advised against it, but the governor did not listen and ended up killing the prisoner and demoted Zhou Yan. The prisoner's family filed a complaint in the capital, and the court sent an official to reinvestigate. Zhou Yan told the governor, "Just write in the official documents and shift all the blame onto me; you can say that you were sick at the time." Then, he told the officials below him, "If anyone asks you, just say that all the blame is mine. If anyone dares to say a word against the governor, I will fight him to the bitter end!" The messenger had Zhou Yan arrested and imprisoned. Despite being severely tortured multiple times, he did not yield. In the prison's silkworm chamber, he sighed, "I am a descendant of King Zhou Ping, the great-grandson of a noble. How could I end up being beheaded and killed, to face my ancestors?" So he died by fasting. Zhou Yan had five sons, all of whom became provincial governors and governors themselves.
Zhou Jia served as the county registrar. In the final years of Wang Mang's reign, bandits attacked Ruyang City in the county. Zhou Jia accompanied the governor He Chang to suppress the bandits. He Chang was hit by a stray arrow, and the county's soldiers fled north. The bandits surrounded them in multiple layers, with glinting swords and shining blades. Zhou Jia protected He Chang with his own body, shouting to the bandits, "You are all just common folk. The crime has already been committed by your fellow bandits. How can you harm your superior? I would gladly give my life for the governor!" After speaking, he cried out in anguish. The bandits exchanged glances and remarked, "He's a true hero!" So they arranged a carriage and horses for him and sent him away.
Kou Xun recommended him to become a virtuous and loyal official, and then he was promoted to the position of Deputy Minister of Personnel. Emperor Guangwu summoned him and asked about the disasters he had encountered in the past. He replied, "The governor was injured, and his life was in the hands of Kou Xun. I was too cowardly then to risk my life for him." Emperor Guangwu said, "This is the conduct of an elder!" He then ordered him to marry a princess, but he declined due to illness.
Later, he gradually rose in rank and became the Prefect of Lingling. After serving for seven years, he passed away. The people of Lingling praised the kindness and virtue he showed, and built a shrine in his honor.
His cousin, Fan Chang, styled Boci, was kind-hearted and became the Governor of Henan. In the second year of Yongchu, during the summer, there was a severe drought, and prayers for rain went unanswered for a long time. Fan Chang ordered the collection of the remains of more than ten thousand individuals who had died far from home near the city of Luoyang. Suddenly, it poured, and that year, they enjoyed a bountiful harvest. He later rose to the rank of Palace Attendant.
Fan Shi, styled Juqing, was from Jinxian, Shanyang, with another name, Fan Si. When he was young, he studied at the Imperial Academy and was close friends with Zhang Shao from Runan, styled Yuanbo. The two of them returned home together for a visit. Fan Shi said to Zhang Shao, "When I return in two years, I will visit your parents and see your children." They agreed on a date.
The day before the agreed date, Zhang Shao told his mother about this and said he would prepare food and wine to welcome Fan Shi. His mother said, "Two years apart, thousands of miles away, how can you be so sure he will come?" Zhang Shao said, "Juqing is a man of his word and will not break his promise." His mother said, "If that's the case, I will make wine." On the appointed day, Fan Shi indeed came, paid his respects in the family hall, drank wine together, and parted on good terms.
A man served as the county clerk. Later, Yuanbo became gravely ill and was nearing death. Zhang and Yin, both from the same county, visited him every morning and evening. When Yuanbo was on his deathbed, he sighed and said, "What a pity, I haven't seen my deceased friend!" Yin said, "Both Zhang and I have taken care of you with all our hearts; isn't that enough to be considered friends? Who else do you want to find?" Yuanbo said, "You two are my friends during my lifetime. Fan Juqing from Shanyang, he is the true friend!" After saying that, he passed away.
Let's call this man "Shi." Shi suddenly dreamed of Yuanbo dressed in black official robes, complete with a hat and shoes, calling for him, "Juqing, I will pass away on a certain day, please come and handle my funeral, help me on my journey to the Yellow Springs. Will you forget me? Can you come?" Shi woke up in shock, feeling both sad and distressed; he cried and quickly told the governor about it, asking for permission to attend the funeral. Although the governor did not fully believe it, he still respected his feelings and agreed. Shi put on his friend's mourning clothes and hurried to the funeral on the day of the burial.
Before Shi arrived, the funeral procession was already underway. When he reached the gravesite, the coffin wouldn't budge. Yuanbo's mother caressed the coffin and said, "Yuanbo, are you waiting for someone?" So they stopped and waited for a while. At that moment, a white carriage with white horses came in mourning. Yuanbo's mother said, "Fan Juqing must have shown up!" After Juqing arrived, he bowed deeply before the coffin and said, "Let's go, Yuanbo! The separation of yin and yang means we must part forever!" More than a thousand attendees were moved to tears. Shi helped lift the coffin and move it forward. After spending some time by the grave, helping to tidy it up and plant some trees, Shi finally left.
Later, Shi arrived in the capital, studying at the Imperial College. At that time, Chen Pingzi from Changsha was also studying at the Imperial College, and they hadn't met before. Chen Pingzi fell gravely ill and was nearing death. He said to his wife, "I heard that Fan Juqing from Shanyang is a righteous man and can be trusted with my final affairs. After I die, bury my body at the entrance of Juqing's house." He tore a piece of white cloth and wrote a letter to Fan Juqing. After Chen Pingzi's death, his wife followed his instructions. At that time, Shi happened to return from outside, saw the letter, saw the grave, and was deeply saddened. He bowed and wept in front of the grave, considering Chen Pingzi a deceased friend. Then, Shi took care of Chen Pingzi's wife and children, personally escorting them back to Linxiang. Before they had traveled four or five miles, Shi placed Chen Pingzi's letter on the coffin, weeping as he said goodbye and left. When Chen Pingzi's brothers heard about this, they searched everywhere for Shi, but they couldn't find him anywhere. Later, officials from Changsha went to the capital, submitted a report about Shi's deeds, and all three branches of the government summoned him, but he turned down all their summons.
Once upon a time, a gifted scholar from the province was promoted four levels and became the governor of Jingzhou. He had a friend named Kong Song, who was from Nanyang, who was poor and had elderly parents. In order to support his family, Kong Song changed his name and became an ordinary soldier on Ali Street in Xinye County. When the governor of Jingzhou visited Xinye County, Kong Song was sent by the county to greet him as a cavalry guide. The governor recognized Kong Song at a glance, excitedly called his name, grabbed his arm, and said, "Aren't you Kong Zhongshan?" He sighed and reminisced about the past with Kong Song, "Back in the day, we wore long robes and studied together at the Imperial Academy. Now I have received the emperor's favor and become a local official, while you conceal your identity and serve as a soldier. Isn't that a pity?" Kong Song replied, "Hou Ying has been sticking to a humble profession for years, dreaming of being a gatekeeper. If you want to live in a remote area, what's there to worry about? Poverty is the norm for scholars, so what is there to be ashamed of?" The governor wanted the county to send someone else in place of Kong Song, but Kong Song said he hadn't finished his previous task and refused to leave. While serving as a soldier on Ali Street, Kong Song was principled, held himself to high standards, and earned the admiration of the local youth, who looked up to him. Later, he was summoned to work in the government office and went to the capital. On the way, he stayed in a place called Xiating, where his horse got stolen. It turned out to be local thieves, and upon hearing that it was Kong Song's horse, they felt guilty and returned the horse, apologizing to him, saying, "Kong Zhongshan is a good man, how could we ever steal from him?" Kong Song eventually rose to become the governor of Nanhai. The Jingzhou governor was eventually promoted to the governor of Lujiang, with a reputation that spread far and wide, and eventually passed away while in office.
Let’s talk about Li Shan, whose courtesy name was Cisun. He was from Yuyang in Nanyang and belonged to the same clan as Li Yuancang, who was also from the same county. During the Jianwu period, a plague swept through the Li family, resulting in the deaths of Li Yuancang's family members one by one, leaving only a newborn baby named Li Xu. The Li family had a huge fortune, and the slaves and servants secretly conspired to kill Li Xu and seize the family fortune. Li Shan was deeply moved by the tragic fate of the Li family but felt powerless to intervene. So, he secretly took Li Xu and fled to the Xiqiu area of Shanyang, personally nursing him with his own milk. He took great care of Li Xu, enduring hardships and giving it his all regardless of the environment. Even though Li Xu was just a baby, Li Shan treated him with the respect due to an adult. Whenever something needed doing, Li Xu would kneel to ask for guidance, and only then would Li Shan take action. The neighbors in the village were touched by his actions, and they followed suit, doing good deeds and building their own merits. When Li Xu turned ten, Li Shan took him back to their hometown to manage the family estate. He then reported the slaves' and servants' crimes to the authorities, and all those involved in the plot to harm Li Xu were executed. At that time, Zhong Liyi was the magistrate of Xiqiu County. He submitted a memorial to the court, recommending Li Shan's noble deeds. Emperor Guangwu issued an edict appointing Li Shan and Li Xu as attendants to the Crown Prince. During Emperor Xianzong's reign, Li Shan was appointed as a public official, and because of his strong capabilities, he was promoted to Governor of Jinan. On his way to his post from the capital, he passed through Yuyang, stopping by Li Yuan's grave. Less than a mile away, he took off his court robes, grabbed a hoe, and went to the grave to do some weeding. When it was time to pay his respects, he wept bitterly, cooked his own meal, and used a tripod and sacrificial vessels for the rites. He cried out, "Your wife had such a kind heart!" After mourning for several days, he finally left. Upon taking up his post in Jinan, he ruled with kindness, and the local customs changed significantly as a result. Later, he was promoted to Governor of Jiujiang, but sadly, he fell ill and died before he could take up the position.
Later he was appointed as the Governor of Hejian.
Wang Yu, styled Shaolin, was from Xindu County in Guanghan Prefecture. Once, Wang Yu went to the capital and saw a scholar who looked very ill and pitiful in an empty house. The scholar said to Wang Yu, "I was originally going to Luoyang, but fell ill and my time is near. I have ten catties of gold hidden around my waist; I want to give it to you; please help me bury it when I pass away." Before Wang Yu could ask for the scholar's name, he died. Wang Yu sold one catty of gold, arranged the scholar's funeral, and placed the rest of the gold under the coffin, where it remained unknown to anyone.
After a few years, Wang Tu returned to his hometown and was appointed as the chief of the Daduting Pavilion in the county. On his first day in office, a horse ran into the pavilion and stopped. On the same day, a gust of wind blew a beautifully embroidered quilt right in front of Wang Tu. Wang Tu reported this to the county, and the county gave the horse and quilt to him. Later, Wang Tu rode the horse to Luo County, and the horse suddenly ran wildly, leading Wang Tu into another family's yard. The owner was very happy to see this and said, "We've caught a thief!" He asked Wang Tu how the horse came here, and Wang Tu explained the whole story, including the embroidered quilt. The owner was silent for a long time, then said, "The quilt was blown away with the whirlwind, and the horse disappeared together. What kind of good fortune do you have to have received these two items?" Wang Tu remembered burying that scholar and told the owner, including the scholar's appearance and the location of the buried gold. The owner was shocked and cried out, "That's my son! His name is Jin Yan. He went to the capital and then disappeared. I never thought you buried him. Such a huge debt of gratitude has gone unreturned for so long. God is praising your virtue!" Wang Tu returned the horse and quilt to the owner, but Jin Yan's father refused to take them and expressed his deep gratitude to Wang Tu. After declining, Wang Tu left. At that time, Jin Yan's father was an official in the state, and he informed the new county magistrate, who allowed Wang Tu to take a break before accompanying him to welcome Jin Yan's coffin and retrieve the remaining gold. Since then, Wang Tu's reputation has grown.
There was once a man named Guo Tu, who initially served as a county official before moving up to a state position. He was later recommended as a talented person and appointed as the magistrate of Meixian. Upon taking office, he visited the pavilion, where the pavilion's keeper warned him, "This pavilion is haunted, often leading to the deaths of travelers. You cannot stay here overnight!" Guo Tu said, "Benevolence and righteousness can overcome evil, and morality can eliminate misfortune. What’s there to be afraid of when it comes to ghosts?" After speaking, he entered the pavilion and stayed.
At midnight, he heard a woman crying out her grievances. Guo Dun recited a spell and said, "What grievance do you have, just say it!" The woman said, "I can't come out." Guo Dun then took off his clothes and gave them to her. The woman then came out and said, "My husband is the magistrate of Fu County. He once stayed overnight at this pavilion. The pavilion keeper was a wicked man; he killed more than ten members of my family, buried their bodies under the pavilion, and also took away our belongings." Guo Dun asked her for the name of the pavilion keeper, and the woman said, "It is the one currently acting as the guide in the pavilion." Guo Dun asked the guide, "Why did you kill the guests passing by?" The guide replied, "She dared not complain during the day, and every night she came to cry out about the injustice. The guests were asleep and couldn't hear her cries; I couldn't bear it, so I killed them." Guo Dun said, "I will help you get justice, but promise me you won't kill any more innocent people." After saying this, Guo Dun took off his clothes and laid them on the ground, and the woman suddenly disappeared. The next morning, Guo Dun summoned the guide for questioning. The guide confessed to everything and was arrested along with more than ten of his accomplices, who all confessed their crimes. Guo Dun also sent people to bring back the bodies of the guide's family for burial in their hometown, and from then on, the pavilion was at peace.
As for Zhang Wuzhe, he was from Wu County. His father, Zhang Ye, served as a secretary in the county and once escorted the prefect's wife and children back to their hometown. On their way to the River Pavilion, they were robbed by bandits in the middle of the night. Zhang Ye fought the bandits but was killed on the spot, and his body was never found. Zhang Wuzhe was still young at the time and had never seen his father. Later, he went to study at the imperial school, and on every holiday, he would take the sword left by his father and go to the place where his father was killed to mourn, weeping on his way back. The Prefect, Di Wu Lun, greatly admired his filial piety and recommended him as a filial and incorrupt candidate. Later, Zhang Wuzhe's mother passed away, and he was overwhelmed with grief, weeping so much he disfigured himself, saying that he felt his father's soul could not find peace. Ultimately, he died from his overwhelming grief.
The last person I want to mention is Luxu, whose courtesy name is Zhichu, a native of Wu in Kuaiji, and his family has always been a local noble family. His grandfather, Luxu Hong, whose courtesy name was Zichun, held the position of Minister of Works during the Jianwu era. He was tall and handsome and preferred wearing locally made single-layer garments. Emperor Guangwu was quite taken with them when he saw them, and from then on, he frequently ordered Kuaiji County to supply Yue cloth.
I lost my parents at a young age and later became a county scribe. That year, a famine struck, leaving the common people starving. The prefect Yin Xing asked me to go to Duting Pavilion to cook porridge for the people. I carefully registered all the individuals who received porridge, asking each of them for their names. After the matter was completed, Yin Xing asked me how many people had been fed in total. I confidently reported that over six hundred people had been fed and I could even recite their surnames perfectly. Yin Xing was very surprised. Later, when the governor came for an inspection, he saw me and appointed me as his aide. Eventually, I stepped down from my position due to illness and returned to the county to work as a scribe.
At that time, King Ying of Chu wanted to rebel and secretly sought talented individuals from across the land. After King Ying of Chu's rebellion was exposed, the emperor saw the list that included Yin Xing's name, so Yin Xing was arrested and taken to the Tingwei Prison. I, along with the Chief Clerk Liang Hong, the Deputy Clerk Shi Sixun, and more than five hundred officials, were all taken to the Zhaoyu in Luoyang for interrogation. Most of those officials could not withstand the torture and died. Only I, Liang Hong, and Sixun endured the torture, our flesh rotting, but we never confessed. My mother traveled a long distance to the capital to see how I was doing, but due to the urgent situation in the prison, she did not have the chance to see me. My mother could only prepare some food and hand it to the jailer for me to eat. Despite enduring torture, I always maintained a resolute demeanor, never changing my expression, only shedding tears when I saw the food. The jailer was puzzled and asked why I was crying. I replied, "My mother came but couldn't see me, which is why I'm crying." The jailer was furious, suspecting I had leaked the news, wanting to arrest me. I said, "I cried because I recognized the soup in the food as my mother's, so I knew she had come, not because someone told me." The jailer asked, "How do you know it's your mother's?" I said, "My mother always cuts meat into square pieces and slices onions into one-inch lengths, so I know it's her." The jailer went to inquire at the post station, and indeed my mother had come, so he secretly admired my character and reported my situation. The emperor pardoned Yin Xing and the others, allowing them to return to their hometowns, but they were banned from holding office again. I eventually passed away due to old age and weakness. My eldest son, Chou, served as the Prefect of Guangling and was known for his good governance; my second son, Feng, served as the Prefect of Le'an; my youngest son, Bao, was upright, studious, and unambitious; he was summoned multiple times to serve as an official but always declined. Bao's son, Kang, was mentioned earlier.
Dai Feng, whose courtesy name was Pingzhong, was from Jibei and had a strong and upright character. At the age of fifteen, he went to the Imperial Academy to study and became a student of Shen Jun, the magistrate of Mao County, hailing from Donghai. After Shen Jun passed away, Dai Feng attended his funeral in Donghai, passing by Shen Jun's house on the way. Shen Jun's parents thought Dai Feng was returning and thus prepared a wedding for him. Dai Feng made only a brief visit to Shen Jun's parents, leaving without staying overnight. Upon returning to the capital, he successfully completed his studies. At that time, his classmate Shi Jingping died from a fever, and Dai Feng took care of the funeral, using his own money to buy a small coffin and sending Shi Jingping back home for burial. When his family sorted through Shi Jingping's belongings, they were surprised to find all of his possessions in the coffin.
Later, Dai Feng encountered bandits who stole all his belongings, leaving only seven pieces of silk which the bandits overlooked. Dai Feng caught up with the bandits and handed over the silk, saying, "I know you could use some money, so here’s something for you." The bandits were very surprised and said, "This is a virtuous man!" They returned all the stolen items to Dai Feng.
Afterwards, Dai Feng was recommended for his filial piety and integrity, serving as the Director of the Court of Imperial Clans. He resigned from his position out of respect for his uncle's death. The court issued a decree to seek virtuous and upright individuals courageous enough to speak their minds and possessing noble character to avert disasters and evil. Each noble and county governor was to recommend one person. Both the county and the Grand Minister of Agriculture recommended Dai Feng. The court dispatched a carriage to escort him, and Dai Feng entered the palace to meet the emperor. He excelled in the imperial examination, earning a promotion to court official. He later rose to become the magistrate of Xihua County. During a locust plague in Ruzhou and Yingzhou, Xihua County was miraculously unaffected. When the inspector arrived to investigate, the locusts inexplicably vanished. The inspector left that day, and the locusts vanished, leaving the entire county puzzled. That year, there was also a severe drought. Dai Feng prayed for rain, but when no rain came, he prepared to set himself on fire. Just as the fire was ignited, a torrential rain began, and the nearby villagers held him in great admiration.
Dai Feng was promoted to the position of Prime Minister of Zhongshan. At that time, there were over four hundred prisoners in each county, whose crimes had been confirmed and were awaiting execution. Dai Feng sympathized with them, so he decided to release them all and set a date for their return, and not a single person broke the agreement. The court issued an edict in praise of his actions. In the twelfth year of Yongyuan, Dai Feng was summoned to be the Minister of Ceremonies, and later passed away while in office.
Li Chong, styled Daxun, was from Chenliu. His family was very poor, with six brothers sharing meals and taking turns wearing clothes. His wife secretly said to him, "Now that we are so poor, we can't go on like this. I've saved some money secretly and want to split up." Li Chong pretended to agree with her, saying, "If you want to separate, then we must make wine and invite guests, inviting all the neighbors from the village to discuss this matter together." His wife followed Li Chong's instructions, making wine and inviting guests. During the banquet, Li Chong suddenly knelt down, pointing at his wife and said, "This woman is too unreasonable. She instigated me to sever my relationship with my mother and brothers, deserving to be put to death!" He then scolded her loudly and kicked her out. She left crying. Everyone there was terrified, and the banquet was disbanded.
Later, Li Chong's mother passed away, and he mourned by her grave. Someone stole trees from beside his mother's grave, and Li Chong killed the thief on the spot. After the mourning period, he built a study where he lectured and taught. The magistrate Lu Ping wanted him to be a clerk, but he refused. Lu Ping was very angry, so he threw Li Chong into a ditch on the pretext and then demoted him to be the magistrate of the county. Helpless, Li Chong had to do the laborious work himself. Later, when the Emperor issued an edict to summon officials, Li Chong didn't show up.
During the Yanping period, the court issued an edict for officials ranked two thousand stones and above to recommend recluses and scholars with noble character to inspire the younger generation. The court specially appointed Li Chong as a doctor. At that time, Lu Ping was also a doctor, and he always admired Li Chong whenever they had meetings together. Li Chong was later promoted to the position of attendant to the emperor. General Deng Zhong wielded significant power, and everyone tried to please him at the time, but Deng Zhong showed him great respect and always treated him with kindness.
Once, Deng Zhong held a banquet for Li Chong, and the room was filled with guests. As they drank, Deng Zhong knelt down and said, "I am fortunate to have the trust of the queen and hold the position of grand general. I am currently assembling my staff and wish to recruit talented individuals from all over to compensate for my shortcomings. Please recommend talented individuals." Li Chong listed some reclusive individuals with moral cultivation for him, but Deng Zhong was not very satisfied with some of them. He wanted to dismiss Li Chong, so he offered him some meat. Li Chong threw the meat on the ground and said, "Recommending talented individuals for the country is more important than eating meat!" After speaking, he left. Deng Zhong admired him even more.
Zhang Mengju, a guest from Runan Province, advised Li Chong, "I heard that you spoke to General Deng about talents today; your words were too blunt and harsh, lacking subtlety, which won't bode well for your descendants." Li Chong replied, "For a man living in the world, the most important thing is to pursue what you truly want. How can one consider the future of his descendants so far ahead!" As a result, Li Chong offended many powerful figures. Later, Li Chong was promoted to the position of left middle guard and was honored as one of the Three Elders of the State when he was over eighty years old. Emperor An of Han frequently summoned him and even bestowed upon him a cane. Finally, Li Chong passed away peacefully at home.
Miao Rong, courtesy name Yu Gong, was from Zhaoling in Runan. He lost his parents at a young age and lived with his three brothers, sharing their family resources. Later, his brothers all married, and their wives wanted to divide the family, which often led to quarrels. Miao Rong felt both angry and helpless, so he locked himself in a room and scolded himself, saying, "Miao Rong, you work hard to study and be a good person, hoping to influence others with your actions, yet you can't even manage your own family!" When his younger brother and sister-in-law heard this, they quickly apologized and lived peacefully together from then on.
Miao Rong later became the county registrar. When the county magistrate had to undergo a government evaluation, other officials were afraid of being held accountable and passed the buck onto each other, but Miao Rong insisted on telling the truth and providing evidence. As a result, he was severely questioned and subjected to torture that left him with maggot-infested wounds, and he was transferred to five different prisons, spending a total of four years. Finally, the county magistrate was spared from being held accountable.
The governor of Longxi, Liang Zhan, summoned him to serve as his secretary. When Emperor An of Han just ascended the throne, Liang Zhan died of illness in office, and Miao Rong escorted his body back to Longxi. After burying Liang Zhan, the Western Qiang tribes rebelled, forcing Liang Zhan's wife and children to flee to other counties for safety. Only Miao Rong remained to honor Liang Zhan by building his tomb. He secretly dug a grave next to a well, hiding during the day and moving soil at night. Once the rebellion was quelled, he completed the tomb. Liang Zhan's wife and children were surprised to see Miao Rong alive when they returned. The people of Longxi praised his loyalty and offered him horses, carriages, and clothing, but he graciously declined and returned to his hometown.
Later, he was recruited to work in the government, and because of his exceptional performance, he was promoted to the position of Zhongmou County Magistrate. Zhongmou County, located near the capital, was home to many influential figures. After Miao Rou took office, he took a tough stance against corrupt officials and those who pretended to be relatives of the powerful, punishing more than a hundred people in total, gaining widespread fame. In the end, he passed away while in office.
Chen Zhong, styled Jinggong, was a native of Yichun in Yuzhang. As a young man, he was close friends with a fellow local named Lei Yi, and they studied the Book of Songs and the Spring and Autumn Annals of Yan together. The Magistrate Zhang Yun recommended Lei Yi as a filial and incorrupt candidate, but Chen Zhong modestly insisted that Lei Yi was more suitable; despite more than ten attempts, he was unsuccessful, as Zhang Yun refused to listen. The following year, Lei Yi was recommended as a filial and incorrupt candidate, and Chen Zhong also served with him in the government office.
There was a colleague who owed tens of thousands of money in debt, and the creditor came by every day demanding payment, making life difficult. Chen Zhong secretly used his own money to help him repay the debt. When the colleague found out, he was very grateful, but Chen Zhong said, "It wasn't me, maybe it was someone with the same name as me." He never took credit for his good deeds. Another time, a roommate mistakenly took the neighbor's pants home while visiting family. The creditor suspected it was Chen Zhong who took them, but instead of explaining, Chen Zhong bought a new pair of pants to compensate the creditor. Later, when the person returned from their visit, they returned the pants to the creditor, and the truth finally came to light.
Chen Zhong and Lei Yi were appointed as officials in the Ministry of Personnel together. Later, Lei Yi took the blame for someone else and was dismissed. After witnessing Lei Yi's dismissal, Chen Zhong also resigned from his position due to illness.
Later, Chen Zhong was recognized as a talented individual and became the Magistrate of Xiyang County. He governed the region effectively, with remarkable accomplishments. He was set to be promoted to Taishou of Kuaiji, but he resigned from his position following the death of his sister. He was later recommended by the Minister of Works and became an Imperial Secretary, before ultimately passing away.
Lei Yi, styled Zhonggong, was a native of Poyang County in Yuzhang Commandery. He started out as an official in the commandery and recommended good people without boasting about his own achievements. Once, Lei Yi saved a man who was sentenced to death, and later the man brought forty taels of gold to thank him, but Lei Yi refused to accept it. When Lei Yi was not at home, the man secretly placed the gold on the dustpan in Lei Yi's house. Lei Yi only discovered the money when he was renovating his house. Since the man who sent the money had already passed away, Lei Yi could not return it to him, so he handed it over to the county office.
Later, Lei Yi was recommended as a filial and incorrupt candidate and became a deputy director of the Imperial Secretariat. At that time, a colleague committed a crime and was to be punished. Lei Yi quietly took the blame for him and was sentenced to malfeasance. When his colleagues found out about this, they all wrote petitions to plead for leniency for Lei Yi. Emperor Shun of Han issued a decree pardoning their crimes.
After returning home, Lei Yi was recommended as a talented scholar, but he gave this opportunity to Chen Zhong. When the provincial governor disagreed, Lei Yi pretended to be insane and fled looking disheveled, ignoring the court's summons. People in the village said, "Glue may think it’s strong, but it can’t compare to Lei Yi and Chen Zhong." Both of them were summoned by the three offices at the same time. Lei Yi eventually became an irrigation official, was tasked with inspecting various places and reforming local customs. There were more than seventy officials, including prefects and county magistrates, whom he held accountable. Shortly after, he was appointed as an imperial censor, later became the county magistrate of Nandong, and eventually died in office. His son, Chen Shou, rose to the position of Prefect of Cangwu.
Fan Ran, styled Shiyun, was a native of Waihuang County in Chenliu Commandery. When he was young, he worked as a minor official in the county. At the age of eighteen, he was ordered to welcome a post official, but Fan Ran felt it was embarrassing and ran away. He went to Nanyang and studied under Fan Ying, and later traveled to the Sangu region to study under Ma Rong for several years before eventually returning to his hometown.
Ran, this guy, is independent and takes the road less traveled. He likes to do things that stand out. He particularly admires folks like Liang Boluan and Min Zhongshu. He has a good relationship with Li Gu from Hanzhong and Wang Huan from Hanoi, but has a low opinion of Jia Weijie and Guo Linzong. Later, when Wang Huan became the magistrate of Kaocheng County, which is right next to Waihuang, he sent folks to invite Ran a bunch of times, but Ran never went. When Wang Huan was promoted to the governor of Hanyang and was about to take office, Ran finally went with his younger brother, lightly packed to see him off, carrying wheat and wine, and set up an altar by the roadside to wait for him.
When Ran saw Wang Huan's convoy coming, he pretended not to see and talked shop with his brother. Wang Huan recognized his voice and quickly got off the carriage to greet him. Wang Huan said, "We don't have much time on the road, let's rest at the pavilion ahead and talk about things we haven't seen each other for years." Ran said, "When you were in Kaocheng before, I wanted to work with you, but I am too ordinary and have separated myself from those high-ranking officials. Now that you have traveled far away, I don't know when we will meet again, so I came here lightly packed to see you off and express my farewell. If you come specifically to chase after me, others will say I am currying favor with the powerful." After speaking, he got up and left with a wave of his sleeve. Wang Huan watched his back, but couldn’t catch up as Ran walked away without looking back.
During the reign of Emperor Huan, the court made Ran the magistrate of Laiwu County. When his mother passed away, he didn’t take the job. Later, the Grand Marshal's office invited him to work, but his blunt nature made it tough for him to fit into the bureaucracy, often showing up in rough clothes at court. Some people wanted to recommend him as an imperial censor, but he secretly took off to the Liang Pei area, scraping by as a fortune-teller on the streets.
Due to being caught up in party struggles and subsequently imprisoned, he had to pull his wife and children in a deer cart, surviving by scavenging for food and other necessities. Sometimes he stayed in other people's homes, and at times, he struggled to find food. After living this way for over a decade, he finally built a thatched house to live in. His living conditions were humble; yet he remained composed, showing no signs of distress. The villagers even wrote a song in his honor: "Dust in the dustpan, Fan Shi Yun; Fish in the pot, Fan Laiwu."
Once the political strife settled down, he received job offers from all three prefectures, and in the end, he accepted the appointment of Sikong. At that time, there were rebellions in the Western Qiang and Yellow Turban uprisings, and the court stipulated that officials of each prefecture should not leave their posts at will. Ran voluntarily resigned, and the emperor granted him a special pardon. Later, the Ministry of War also invited him, but he declined, citing illness.
In the year 186 AD, my father was seventy-four years old and passed away at home. Before his passing, he left a will instructing my brothers and me: "I was born into a dark era marked by extravagance and corruption. I have not been able to support the country and help the people in my lifetime. How could I possibly condone this situation in death! After my death, immediately prepare the body, wear ordinary clothes; the clothes just need to cover the body, and the coffin just needs to fit. Bury me immediately after embalming, and bury me right after that. At the memorial service, only serve plain tea and rice; avoid any extravagant dishes. The size and height of the grave only need to be sufficient for my burial. Only my two friends, Li Zijian and Wang Zibing, truly understood me. They are not here now, so it falls to you to ensure that the villagers and clan members do not cause any disturbances."
As a result, officials from all three prefectures came to pay their respects. General He Jin even wrote a letter to the Prefect of Chenliu, discussing several times the possibility of posthumously conferring a title upon my father. It was agreed that he should be posthumously honored with the title "Mr. Zhenjie." More than two thousand people attended the funeral, and the governors and county magistrates each erected a monument in his honor and created an epitaph.
Dai Jiu, styled Jingcheng, was a native of Shangyu, Zhejiang. He served as a warehouse officer in the county (equivalent to a clerk in the county financial department). Later, Ouyang Can, the governor of Yangzhou, accused the magistrate Cheng Gong of corruption and bribery, and sent his subordinate Xue An to investigate. Dai Jiu was subsequently thrown into prison in Qiantang County.
He was subjected to severe torture in prison, using various cruel methods, but he remained steadfast and composed. The interrogator even heated a red iron axe and forced it under his armpit. Dai Jiu taunted the prison guard, "Heat the axe even hotter, don't let it cool down!" Before each session of torture, he would refuse to eat the food the guard brought until it was burnt, and only then did he pick it up to eat.
The chief interrogator exhausted all kinds of torture methods but could not make him yield. Finally, they threw him into the bottom of a boat and fumigated him with horse manure. Throughout a whole night and two days, everyone thought he was dead. When they opened the boat to check, Dai Jiu was glaring with his eyes wide open and cursed, "Why not increase the fire and burn me to death!" Then, they lit a fire on the ground, used large needles to pierce his fingernail seams, forcing him to grab soil, and his fingernails were completely burnt away.
The chief interrogator reported the situation to Xue An, who summoned Dai Jiu and asked, "The magistrate's crimes are conclusive; I was ordered to investigate. Why do you resist so stubbornly?" Dai Jiu replied while lying on the ground, "The magistrate is an official appointed by the court, and I should sacrifice myself for my country. Although you are acting on orders, you should also uphold justice and righteousness. How can you wrong the loyal and impose false charges against me, forcing me to slander the monarch and have sons betray their fathers? Xue An, you are foolish and incompetent, acting unjustly and without honor. Even if you torture me to death, I will appeal to the heavens to have the spirits punish you! If I survive, I will personally kill you!"
Xue An greatly admired Dai Jiu's integrity, immediately released him, and had a long conversation with him, reporting Dai Jiu's statement and explaining the actual situation in the county. Eventually, Cheng Gong was summoned back to the capital, dismissed from his post, and sent home.
The governor Liu Chong recommended Dai Jiu as a filial and upright official, and he was appointed as the Chief Official of the Imperial Court. However, he passed away shortly after due to illness. Zhao Bao, styled Wei Hao, was from Dongwucheng, Shandong. His cousin Zhao Zhong was an Imperial Palace Eunuch, and Zhao Bao was deeply ashamed of having a eunuch in his family, so he never associated with Zhao Zhong. It is said that a man named Xiang Bao initially served as an official in the local government and was later promoted to be the magistrate of Guangling due to his incorruptibility. During his three-year term, he achieved remarkable results, leading to a peaceful and prosperous life for the people. His achievements were specially reported to the provincial authorities, leading to his promotion to the Governor of Liaoxi. He was renowned for his integrity and reputation, which instilled fear in the barbarian tribes at the border. In the second year of his term, he sent messengers to greet his mother and wife as they neared Liaoxi. However, they were captured by over 10,000 Xianbei invaders in Liucheng, who took them hostage to blackmail Xiang Bao. Xiang Bao immediately led 20,000 infantry and cavalry to confront the enemy. The enemy brought out Xiang Bao's mother to threaten him, and Xiang Bao tearfully called out to his mother, "I have been unfilial, hoping to support you with my meager salary, but instead bringing disaster upon you. We were once mother and son, but now I am an official of the court. I cannot betray loyalty and righteousness for personal reasons, and can only die in battle to atone for my sins." His mother said to him from afar, "Wei Hao, everyone has their own fate, why bother with each other and compromise loyalty and righteousness! In the past, Wang Ling's mother faced the Han envoy, and in order to strengthen Wang Ling's resolve, she even took her own life. You should follow her example!" Xiang Bao immediately charged into battle and defeated the enemy, but unfortunately, his mother and wife perished. After burying his mother, Xiang Bao returned to his hometown to observe a period of mourning for her. Emperor Ling of Han sent condolences and posthumously granted him the title of Marquis of Shu.
After burying his mother, Xiang Bao told the villagers, "Taking a salary while dodging danger is not loyalty; sacrificing my mother for the sake of righteousness is not filial piety. In this way, how can I still face the world?" After saying this, he beat his chest and feet in sorrow and anger, and died. "Taking a salary while dodging danger is not loyalty; sacrificing one's mother for the sake of righteousness is not filial piety. In this way, how can one face the world?"
Now, let's talk about Xiang Xu, whose style name was Fuxing, a man from Chaoge in Henan, and a descendant of Xiang Chang. He was a scholar when he was young, with a quirky personality and unconventional ways. He often read the "Laozi," with his hair unkempt and a red gauze hat perched on his head. He often sat on the wooden bed next to the stove, and over time, his knees, ankles, and toes left marks on the wood. He did not like to talk but enjoyed long, mournful howls. When guests visited, he always bowed his body and did not look at them. He also had several students named "Yan Hui," "Zigong," "Zilu," "Ranyou," and so on. Sometimes, he would ride a donkey into town to beg, and other times, he would bring all the beggars home to feed and drink. People back then just couldn't get him. The local authorities repeatedly invited him to become an official, recommended him as a devoted and principled gentleman, and the court also summoned him, but he refused. Later, when Jiang Gong of Pengcheng and Wei Zhuo of Jingzhao were both summoned to serve as officials, Xiang Xu still did not agree.
It is said that this man was later appointed by the court to meet Prime Minister Zhao. Everyone thought that after becoming an official, he would definitely change his previous extravagant lifestyle and become simple and frugal. However, he not only did not change but also rode in a beautiful carriage with fine horses, leading everyone to wonder if he had been putting on an act all along. During his tenure, he hardly looked at official documents, and his office had turned into a jungle of weeds.
Later, he was promoted to the position of attendant minister. Whenever the court encountered major events, he always sat up straight and spoke solemnly and seriously, earning the respect of all the officials. When the rebellion led by Zhang Jue (Zhang Jue) occurred, he submitted a memorial with his suggestions and harshly criticized the opportunistic officials. He believed that the country should not raise troops but simply send a general to the Yellow River, reciting the "Classic of Filial Piety" towards the north, and the bandits would naturally disintegrate. However, Central Attendant Zhang Rang falsely accused him of not wanting the country to send troops, suspecting he was colluding with Zhang Jue. As a result, he was arrested, imprisoned in the Yellow Gate's Beisi Prison, and ultimately killed.
Another person was named Liang Fu, with the courtesy name Hanru, from Xindu in Guanghan Commandery. He served as a clerk in the commandery. In that year of summer drought, the Prefect personally ascended the mountain to pray for rain, pleading with the heavens for rain for several consecutive days, but no rain fell. Liang Fu then stood before a large crowd and passionately berated himself, saying, "As a pillar of the nation, I cannot offer advice, recommend talents, reject evil, harmonize Yin and Yang, and comply with the will of heaven, leading to the enmity between heaven and earth, the withering of all things, the suffering of the people, and with no place for the people to seek redress. All these sins fall on me! Now that the Prefect has sincerely prayed for the people, but the heavens still have not responded. Today, I will take the risk and pray once more! If it does not rain by noon, I will use my own life to make amends for my mistakes!" After saying this, he piled up firewood, circled it with reeds, and prepared to set himself on fire. Before noon arrived, the sky darkened and soon heavy rain fell, soaking the entire commandery. Later generations praised his sincerity.
Finally, let me talk about a person named Liu Yi, whose courtesy name is Zi Xiang, from Yingyin, a town in Yingchuan County. His family has been wealthy for generations, but he has always been generous and never flaunted his wealth. Once, while traveling in Runan, he encountered a man named Zhang Jili from Chen State who had an accident while rushing to a funeral, whose carriage was damaged by ice and left stranded on the road. Seeing this, Liu Yi said to him, "You are rushing to fulfill filial duties; you should make haste to your destination." After he spoke, he gave his own carriage to Zhang Jili, without even leaving his name, and rode away on horseback. Zhang Jili realized that he was Zi Xiang from Yingyin, and later went to Yingyin to return the carriage, but Liu Yi would not see him.
Chang Shouzhi fell ill and refused the court's summons. Zhong Fu from Henan came to the county to serve as an official, and after hearing about Yi's reputation, he invited him to serve as a magistrate. Zhong Fu believed that Yi had a knack for timing his entry into official service, so he valued him highly. Huang Gang from Yangzhai, taking advantage of Lady Cheng's influence, wanted to seize the mountains and swamps for his own benefit. Zhong Fu summoned Yi and asked him, "The Cheng family has great power, serving by the emperor's side. If you refuse them, you may offend them; if you agree, you will harm the interests of the people. What should we say or do?" Yi said, "The reason famous mountains and vast swamps aren't allocated to individuals is to benefit the people. If you agree with him, you risk tarnishing your reputation by falling prey to deceitful people. If this brings disaster, as a noble family member, I will not be alone." Zhong Fu followed Yi's advice and did not agree with Huang Gang. Later, Zhong Fu recommended Yi for the position of a filial and incorrupt official, but Yi did not accept.
Later, the Yellow Turban Rebellion broke out, causing famine across the counties, leading to many deaths from starvation. Yi provided his own grain to assist those on the brink of starvation, benefiting several hundred people. When impoverished families in the village lost loved ones, he helped with the funeral arrangements; for widows and orphans, he also helped them rebuild their lives.
Emperor Xian moved the capital to the Western Capital, and Yi was recommended to serve as an official in charge of administrative matters. At that time, banditry was rampant, and the roads were impassable, which left many messengers at relay stations unable to reach Chang'an. Yi hid by day and traveled by night, finally arriving in Chang'an. The Emperor issued a decree to praise his loyalty and diligence, specially appointed him as a court official, and later promoted him to the position of Chenliu Prefect. Yi distributed his valuable possessions to others, keeping only his carriage and horses for the journey back to his hometown. Beyond the pass, he saw many scholars dead on the road, so he traded his own horse for coffins and removed his clothes to wrap them. He also encountered some old friends who were starving on the road; unable to bear leaving them behind, he slaughtered his own ox that was pulling the cart to help them. When others advised him not to do so, Yi said, "If you see someone dying and do nothing to help, you're not a true hero." As a result, he and those who received help starved to death.
Wang Lie, styled Yanfang, hailed from Taiyuan. When he was young, he studied under Chen Shi as his teacher, and due to his upright character, he became well-known in his hometown.
One day, someone stole a cow, and the cow owner apprehended the thief. The thief confessed to the owner, saying, "I accept the punishment, but please don't let Wang Yanfang know." Upon hearing this, Wang Lie sent someone to express his gratitude to the thief and even gifted him a piece of cloth. When asked why he did this, Wang Lie said, "The thief's fear of me discovering his wrongdoing indicates that he still possesses a sense of shame. Since he still feels ashamed, he can certainly reform himself, so I gave him the cloth to encourage him." Later, an old man misplaced his sword on the road, and a passerby saw it and kept it for him. That evening, the old man returned to search for his sword, found it, and was quite surprised. He asked for the passerby's name and told Wang Lie about the incident. Wang Lie had someone investigate and found out that this person was the same thief who stole the cow before.
Many people with disputes sought Wang Lie's arbitration, but some turned back midway, while others turned around upon seeing Wang Lie's house. This illustrates the extent of his influence through virtue.
Someone recommended him to be a devoted and upright official, and he was summoned by all three provinces, but he did not accept. Later, when the Yellow Turban Rebellion and the chaos caused by Dong Zhuo broke out, he fled to Liaodong to escape the chaos, where the local ethnic minorities held him in high regard. Governor Gongsun Du treated him like family, who wanted to understand local affairs and hoped he would become the chief official. Wang Lie purposely posed as a merchant, sullying his own reputation to avoid being summoned. When Cao Cao learned of Wang Lie's high reputation, he sent for him, but he refused. In the 24th year of Jian'an, Wang Lie passed away in Liaodong at the age of 78.
Praise: He rode true without deviation, faced righteousness without confusion. This alone is steadfast and pure, truly cultivating virtue.
