I heard that if someone is wise and insightful, then they will naturally be able to understand all kinds of principles; if they have broad knowledge, then there's nothing they won't grasp. Although human nature is complex and difficult to thoroughly understand in detail, you can always find some clues about things. Therefore, even for very subtle matters, it's important to observe closely; to build a strong character, one must learn more about the past. Your Majesty, you are wise and knowledgeable, shining with brilliance, and your virtues are thriving. Even though you have already mastered a large number of classics and understand profound principles, you are still able to pay attention to current affairs and conduct a wide-ranging examination of the rise and fall of history in order to summarize the experiences and lessons of past generations to educate future generations.
I was tasked with gathering and organizing various historical materials from the Three Kingdoms period for Chen Shou's "Records of the Three Kingdoms." Chen Shou's writing is very good; many details are well-verified, and it can be said to be an outstanding work in modern historiography, like a beautifully curated garden. However, it also has its shortcomings, with some areas being overlooked. I followed your instructions, carefully and thoroughly reviewing the materials, striving for comprehensiveness. I extensively gathered old records and collected scattered historical materials that were lost. Although the Three Kingdoms period is not too far away, it spans over a hundred years from the Han Dynasty to the Jin Dynasty. There are numerous contradictions in the annotations, and even numerous errors. Things not recorded in Chen Shou's book, but should be recorded, I have gathered as much as I could to fill in the gaps. Some things have conflicting statements, while others have different sources, making it difficult to judge authenticity; I've noted them all down as references for differing opinions. If I find clear errors or illogical statements, I'll correct them based on the facts. For the success or failure of certain matters, as well as some minor errors in Chen Shou's book, I’ve also included my own insights. From the beginning of writing to completion, it has taken nearly a month. It's now been proofread, and I'm submitting it now.
I understand that painting requires a variety of colors to create beautiful patterns; honey is made from various flower nectars collected by bees, so it can be colorful and sweet, surpassing that of a single flower nectar. I am lacking in talent and ability, far inferior to these two things. Although I try my best, my talent is limited, and my literary style is mediocre, lacking the quick wit of Huanan Wang and the eloquence of Sima Xiangru. I have spent a long time achieving very little, merely staining the ink on the paper, unable to repay your command, much less make amends for my mistakes. My heart is filled with guilt and fear, as if I am falling into an abyss. I hereby submit this report and pledge to exert all my efforts. Your humble and fearful servant humbly apologizes! July 24, the sixth year of Yuanjia. I, Minister Song Cheng, am terrified and bow in apology! Minister Pei Songzhi, Xixianghou, Minister of the Ministry of Books, respectfully submitted.
