Wang Fan, styled Yongyuan, was a native of Lujiang. He was well-read, knowledgeable, and skilled in many arts. He initially served as a Secretary but later resigned. After Sun Xiu became emperor, he, along with He Shao, Xue Ying, and Yu Si, were appointed as Attendants of the Cavalry and were all given the title of Commandant of the Imperial Guard. At that time, he was widely regarded as an upright man. He was once sent as an envoy to Shu, where he was highly praised by the people there. Upon his return, he was appointed as the Inspector of Xiakou.
When Sun Hao first became emperor, Wang Fan returned to the court as an attendant, working alongside Wan Yu. Wan Yu had known Sun Hao before, and those who sought to gain favor with the emperor claimed that Wang Fan was arrogant. There was also a Minister of the Palace Secretariat named Chen Sheng, who was a favorite of Sun Hao and often badmouthed Wang Fan to the emperor. Wang Fan was known for his honesty and integrity; he was uncompromising and occasionally stood up to Sun Hao, leading to frequent reprimands from the emperor.
In the second year of the Ganlu era, Ding Zhong returned from his mission to the Jin Kingdom. Sun Hao hosted a banquet in the palace for his officials, where Wang Fan got drunk and passed out on the floor. Sun Hao suspected him of intentionally disrespecting him, was very displeased, and ordered him to leave the palace. After a while, Wang Fan requested to return to the palace, still not sober. Wang Fan naturally maintained his dignity, even while drunk, and this only fueled Sun Hao's anger. Sun Hao shouted for the guards outside the hall to execute him. The General of the Guards, Teng Mu, and the General of the West, Liu Ping, pleaded for his life, but their efforts were in vain.
Prime Minister Lu Kai wrote in a memorial, "Wang Fan, the Grand Preceptor, is exceptionally talented, knowledgeable in affairs, understands the will of Heaven and the people's sentiments. He is loyal and steadfast in court, a pillar of the nation, and a virtuous minister of the state of Wu! When he served Emperor Jing, he offered wise counsel and was highly esteemed by the emperor, who commended him as exceptional. However, Your Majesty disliked his frankness and his unwillingness to flatter, and ultimately had him killed in the palace, his body abandoned. The people in the provinces mourned his death, and all men of wisdom were filled with sorrow." Lu Kai's grief over Wang Fan's death is evident. Wang Fan was only thirty-nine when he died, and Sun Hao relocated his family to Guangzhou. Wang Fan's two brothers, Wang Zhu and Wang Yan, were also men of talent, but when Guo Ma launched a rebellion, they did not join Ma Su and were subsequently killed.
Lou Xuan, styled Chengxian, was a native of Qi County in Pei Commandery. During Sun Xiu's reign, he served as an imperial censor. After Sun Hao ascended the throne, he, along with Wang Fan, Guo Chuo, and Wan Yu, were appointed as Palace Attendants. Later, he was appointed the Governor of Kuaiji, then returned to the court as the Minister of Agriculture. Previously, palace affairs were managed by close associates, but Lou Xuan suggested that they should select capable individuals rather than personal favorites. Sun Hao ordered relevant departments to find loyal and honest talents. Lou Xuan was then appointed as the commander of the palace guards, tasked with overseeing palace affairs.
As one of the Nine Ministers, Lou Xuan served as a guard commander with integrity, ensuring compliance with the law, handling matters diligently, and speaking directly. He often contradicted Sun Hao, which eventually led to reprimands and the emperor's anger. Later, someone maliciously accused Lou Xuan of secretly meeting with He Shao, engaging in secret conversations and laughter, and slandering the court. Sun Hao ordered an investigation and ultimately exiled Lou Xuan to Guangzhou.
Dong Guanling Hua Ji submitted a memorial: "I believe that governing a country is similar to managing a family. Those who manage the land should be honest and dependable. Moreover, a person should be chosen to oversee the management as the primary directive in order to handle things well. The Analects says: 'Perhaps only Shun can govern a country well without deliberate governance. He was respectful and cautious, sitting upright facing south.' This suggests that if the right person is chosen, governing the country can be done with ease. Currently, the country is not yet unified and there are many significant matters, both big and small, that must be reported to the emperor and require the emperor's instructions, which can be quite exhausting for the emperor. Your Majesty, since you are devoted to studying ancient classics and have a broad knowledge of various texts, you should maintain tranquility to broaden your mind, maintain your mental and physical purity, and to live in harmony with the universe. I have contemplated day and night, and among all the officials, there is no one more qualified to take on significant responsibilities and earn your trust than Lou Xuan. Lou Xuan is honest, loyal, upright in his official duties, and admired by all for his conduct; there is no one better than him. An honest heart is open, and an upright person follows the right path, with qualities like Lou Xuan's being consistent and trustworthy. I sincerely urge Your Majesty to forgive Lou Xuan's past transgressions, allow him to reform himself, promote him to important positions, evaluate his future performance, let him be responsible for selecting officials, and assign important tasks based on merit, so that he can govern the country with the same respect and diligence as Emperor Shun." Sun Hao was extremely envious of Lou Xuan's reputation and sent Lou Xuan and his son Lou Ju into exile in Jiaozhi, under the authority of Jiaozhi Prefect Zhang Yi, allowing them to demonstrate their abilities in combat, while secretly ordering Zhang Yi to kill Lou Xuan. Lou Ju died of illness after arriving in Jiaozhi. Lou Xuan followed Zhang Yi to suppress rebels; he waded through water with a sword, and upon seeing Zhang Yi, he bowed deeply. Zhang Yi couldn't bear to kill him. Later, after Zhang Yi's sudden death, Lou Xuan took charge of his funeral arrangements, finding Sun Hao's secret order among Zhang Yi's belongings, which ultimately led him to take his own life.
He Shao, styled Xingbo, was a native of Shaoxing, Zhejiang. During the reign of Emperor Sun Xiu, he first rose from Zhonglang to Cavalier Attendant, and was later sent to serve as the Prefect of Wu County. During the rule of Emperor Sun Hao, He Shao was recalled to the court to serve as Left Protector of the Army, then promoted to Chief of the Palace Secretariat, and also served as the Tutor to the Crown Prince.
Emperor Sun Hao was both cruel and violent, as well as extremely arrogant, causing the government to deteriorate day by day. He Shao wrote a memorial to advise Emperor Sun Hao, saying: "The ancient sage kings, by dwelling in their inner chambers and grasping the affairs of the realm, accomplished the deeds of the virtuous." Your Majesty, with your noble character and the legacy of your ancestors, you should lead by example, fulfill your duties seriously, respect the throne, promote the capable and commend the virtuous to govern the country effectively. However, in recent years, court officials are in disarray, with important positions left vacant and no suitable candidates among civil and military ranks. There are no senior ministers outside who can stabilize the situation with their strength, and no loyal officials inside who dare to speak frankly and advise. Those who flatter and curry favor have risen to power, boasting about their wealth and status in court, while the loyal and upright are marginalized, even killed. Therefore, the upright have been marginalized, the inept flatter and cater to the Emperor's wishes, everyone pursues immediate benefits, speaking against reason and distorting facts in their writings, resulting in government corruption and silencing loyal officials. Your Majesty, living in the depths of the palace, your word can make the entire realm submit; your orders are executed nationwide, surrounded by flatterers who only sing your praises, you may think they are all talented and the world is at peace. However, I am truly uneasy in my heart, that's why I dare to submit this memorial to advise.
It is said that the emperors of Xingguo prefer to have their mistakes pointed out, while the emperors of chaotic countries enjoy flattery. Emperors who welcome criticism can correct their faults daily, and blessings will naturally follow; while those who seek flattery gradually tarnish their reputation, and disasters arrive one after another. Therefore, the emperors of ancient times humbly promoted talents and humbly accepted criticism, like riding a galloping horse, always alert to the tiger's tail. But what of Your Majesty? You use harsh laws to prohibit frank advice, exclude upright and virtuous officials, only believe in flattery, and indulge the slander of sycophants around you. Emperor Gaozong in the past wanted to find talented officials to assist him, and even dreamed of them, but Your Majesty seems to have forgotten this and does not value talents at all. Therefore, ministers like Wang Fan, who are loyal, upright, talented, and can assist in government affairs, were ordered to be executed simply for speaking a few ill-chosen words while intoxicated. And the Minister of the Court of Imperial Sacrifices, Ge Xi, an old minister of the late emperor, occasionally said a few words that did not please you, which were just drunken talk. It is normal to speak freely after three cups of wine. However, you were furious, accused him of disrespecting you, and made him drink strong liquor, leading to Ge Xi's poisoning death. Since then, the entire nation has mourned, court officials have lost the courage to speak up, officials just want to resign quickly, and those at home want to leave the capital as soon as possible. This is no way to safeguard the nation and foster education!
It is said that the ruler of Xingguo enjoys hearing about his mistakes, while the ruler of chaos enjoys hearing praises; those who hear about their mistakes will see their blessings increase with each passing day, while those who hear praises will see their reputation diminish and disasters arrive. Therefore, the rulers of ancient times humbly promoted talents, humbled themselves to seek faults, like riding a galloping horse, using the tiger's tail as a warning.
I heard that emperors who govern their countries well like to listen to others' opinions, while emperors who make a mess of their countries prefer flattery. Emperors who like to listen to others' opinions can continuously address their shortcomings, and good fortune naturally comes to them; while emperors who prefer flattery undermine their own reputation, and disasters follow one after another. Therefore, good emperors in ancient times promoted talents with humility, accepted criticism with humility, just like skillfully riding a galloping horse, always wary of a lurking tiger.
Ah, this Zhao Ding, clearly a sycophant, even lower than a servant, lacking any real ability, yet he is favored by the emperor, all because he knows how to flatter! The emperor even gave him power, letting him become arrogant, reckless, and overbearing, meddling in government affairs and blinding the emperor to the truth, completely blocking the way for upright officials to rise.
This sycophant is eager to rise, so he resorts to cunning schemes and tricks. Zhao Ding foolishly ordered soldiers by the river to catch deer, set traps on the mountains, cut down forests, and capture all the wild animals in Jiuye, bringing no benefit to the country and wasting resources instead! The soldiers are exhausted, resources are depleted, the people are hungry and cold, and grievances abound. I've been observing the celestial phenomena in secret; in recent years, the balance of yin and yang has been disrupted, abnormal seasons, solar eclipses, earthquakes, frost in summer—perusing history books, all resulting from the dominance of sycophants!
I have read many books and seen many things, and I am genuinely fearful of these ominous signs! The previous emperors focused on self-cultivation and virtue, eliminating the ominous signs of the Ding and Zhi; Duke Jing of Song upheld virtue, thereby averting the disasters brought by the comet. I hope Your Majesty can take this as a warning, mindful of divine retribution, reflect on the successful experiences of employing talented individuals in the past, and swiftly cleanse the court, reinstate capable individuals, reject malevolence, and suppress villains; such as Zhao Ding; let no one like him serve again! We must broadly recruit talented individuals and welcome honest opinions, seriously heed your directives, inherit the legacy of our ancestors; only then can we achieve peace and earn the people's affection!
The book says: "When a nation thrives, it treats its citizens as its own children; when it falls, it regards them as mere weeds." The "Analects" states: "When a nation thrives, it treats its citizens as its own children; when it falls, it regards them as mere weeds." Your Majesty, you have previously concealed your talents while diligently governing Eastern Xia, ascending to the throne with a wise and virtuous demeanor in accordance with the mandate of heaven. The people are eagerly anticipating your reign, believing you can swiftly bring prosperity to the nation, just like King Cheng and King Kang of Zhou.
However, since you ascended the throne, the laws have become more severe, and the taxes and forced labor have become heavier; the eunuchs in the palace have been sent to various provinces and counties, haphazardly starting projects, embezzling and taking bribes. The people are heavily burdened, constantly complaining; the elderly and children are hungry and cold, every household is impoverished. Officials everywhere, in order to avoid punishment for violating the law, use harsh laws and torture to force the people to comply. Therefore, the people are overwhelmed, families are scattered, and there are cries of sorrow everywhere. It is heartbreaking.
And those soldiers stationed by the river, whether they are sent far to expand the territory or near to guard the borders against external enemies, should be treated well to meet their immediate needs, but they are constantly taxed and obligated, like a gathering storm. They are tattered, unable to eat or keep warm, facing the dangers of battle and enduring endless suffering after retirement. Hence, families are torn apart, and rebellions are rampant.
I hope Your Majesty can reduce taxes and forced labor, relieve the poor, cut unnecessary expenses, and abolish harsh laws and regulations so that the people can live and work in peace and security, and society can be harmonious and stable. The people are the foundation of the country, food is their life, but now the country has no reserves for a year, and the people barely have enough food to last a month, while tens of thousands of people in the palace are drawing salaries without working. There are complaints in the palace, wastefulness outside, resulting in an empty treasury, while the people cannot eat their fill.
Oh, the enemies from the north are eyeing us warily, focusing on the rise and fall of our country! Your Majesty cannot just rely on your own power and prestige, believing that the enemy won't dare to strike, while neglecting the fact that the entire country is in dire straits. Underestimating the enemy's resolve to attack us is not a sustainable strategy, nor is it a wise way to rule the nation! In the past, the founding emperor worked diligently, persevered through hardships, and established the southern foundation, expanding the territory and ruling the vast land. Though often seen as fated by heaven, it was actually achieved through human efforts! Now that this foundation has been handed down to you, Your Majesty should strive to improve your own cultivation, honor your ancestors, care for the people, nurture talent, and uphold their aspirations. How can you forget the merits of your ancestors, underestimate the hard-won great country, overlook the suffering of the populace, and ignore the great changes in the rise and fall of the country?
I have heard that the fate of a country is volatile, and fortune and misfortune are in our own hands. Even the treacherous Yangtze River is not always reliable. If we do not work hard to guard it, even a single reed could easily cross it! Emperor Qin Shi Huang proclaimed himself emperor and occupied the strategic location of Hangu Pass, but his rule was harsh and unyielding, the people were miserable, and loyal officials dared not speak up. As a result, a rebellion could overthrow the country. Similarly, Liu Bang occupied the three strategic passes, with a solid foundation, but due to poor appointments, the country perished overnight, and both the ruler and his officials were captured and became prisoners. These are all stark lessons for us today! I urge Your Majesty to heed the lessons of history, understand the current situation, consolidate the foundation, strengthen national power, discard personal emotions, follow the right path, and then realize a time of peace and prosperity, illuminating the legacy of our ancestors.
After the emperor finished reading the memorials, he was extremely angry and harbored a deep hatred for Shao Tan. Shao Tan was a person of integrity and righteousness, so those in the emperor's inner circle viewed him with great suspicion. They colluded to frame Shao Tan and Lou Xuan for slandering state affairs, and both were reprimanded by the emperor. Lou Xuan was sent into exile in the south, and although Shao Tan was reinstated, he later fell seriously ill and was rendered mute. After taking a few months off, the emperor suspected him of feigning illness, locked him in a wine cellar, and subjected him to torture and interrogation more than a thousand times. Shao Tan remained resolutely silent and was ultimately executed. His family was likewise exiled to Linhai. The emperor also decreed the annihilation of Lou Xuan's family line. That year marked the first year of Tian Ce, and Shao Tan passed away at the age of forty-nine.
Wei Yao, style name Hongsi, was from Yunyang, Wu County. He had a passion for learning from a young age and was capable of writing essays. He held a position in the prime minister's office, served as the magistrate of Xi'an County, later served as a secretary in the Imperial Academy, and was subsequently promoted to the position of Prince's Attendant.
At that time, Cai Ying was also present in the Eastern Palace; he had a particular fondness for playing chess. The prince considered this to be of little value, so he requested Wei Yao to compose an essay on the subject. Wei Yao's essay was composed as follows:
In ancient times, it was said that people were afraid of not having any merit, dying without leaving a name, so they studied hard, fearing falling behind. Ambitious scholars worried about not achieving anything by old age, so they worked especially hard, studying tirelessly day in and day out, year after year, diligently accumulating virtue and knowledge, like Ning Yue and Dong Zhongshu. Even the wise King Wen of Zhou and the talented Ji Gong had to toil day and night to secure the dominance of the Zhou dynasty, leaving a legacy that endures through the ages. What about us ordinary folks? Look at those famous figures in history; who hasn’t worked exceptionally hard, wearing themselves out both physically and mentally, never relaxing or changing their aspirations, even in times of hardship, like Bu Shi, who dedicated himself to farming and herding, or Huang Ba, who studied in prison, ultimately achieving success and making their mark in history? So you see, Shan Fu toils day and night, while Wu Han remains at court; who would dare to slack off?
People nowadays, for the most part, do not study serious studies; they just like to play those board games, neglecting their responsibilities, forgetting to eat and sleep, playing from morning till night, even if it means playing by candlelight. When they play, they are very serious, and when it's hard to distinguish between winning and losing, they are even more focused, completely worn out. As a result, they neglect their responsibilities, don't see their friends, and even when there are gourmet dishes and beautiful music, they lack the heart to enjoy them. Some even end up losing their clothes, and they will play even when moving, without a shred of shame, and they have a very short temper. They put all their thoughts on the chessboard, their goal is to win, but even if they win, they don't have any official position or territory; this skill isn't one of the traditional Six Arts, and it doesn't help the country in any way. Trying to make a living or achieve recognition through this is futile; if it's about fighting, they lack the military prowess of Sun Tzu or Wu Qi; if it's about knowledge, they are not students of Confucius. They rely on deceit rather than loyalty and righteousness; they use killing, not benevolence and morality. Playing these games all day long offers no benefits; what's the difference between hitting each other with sticks or throwing stones? A true gentleman works hard at home to support his family, serves his country diligently in the court, often working late into the night; how can one find time to be addicted to these games? Therefore, filial piety and friendship are what help one stand tall, while loyalty and integrity can earn one respect.
Now Dong Wu has just received the mandate of heaven; the whole country has yet to be fully pacified, and the court is diligently working to govern. What is most needed is talent. Those who are brave and strategic can be entrusted with important responsibilities, akin to the roles of fierce generals, while those who are knowledgeable and cultured can take on significant roles within the court. A wide range of talents are being actively sought, with civil and military achievements advancing together. The court extensively selects talents, recognizes outstanding individuals, establishes an examination system, and offers generous rewards. This is truly a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity, a chance that comes around only once in several hundred years! Scholars today should strive to learn the teachings of the sages, cherish their own talents and energies, assist the present enlightened world, have their names etched in history, with their achievements shining brightly. This is the primary goal that a gentleman should pursue, and it is also the most urgent task.
How can a small game of Go compare to governing a country? How can a mere three hundred pieces of Go compare to leading thousands of troops? The splendid dragon robe and the melodious sounds of music can easily overshadow the joy of playing Go. If scholars devoted their energy to studying rather than playing Go, they will cultivate aspirations like those of Yan Hui and Min Sun; if they focus on strategy and tactics, they will gain wisdom akin to that of Zi Liang and Zi Ping; if they put it into business and wealth, they will amass riches like Yi Dun; if they focus on equestrian skills and martial arts, they will develop talents akin to those of great generals. This way, they will establish their fame and distance themselves from poverty.
After Wei Yao became the Minister of the Yellow Gate, Sun Liang succeeded to the throne, with Zhuge Ke assisting in governance. Wei Yao was promoted to the position of Taishi Ling, tasked with compiling the history of the Wu kingdom, with the participation of Hua Ji, Xue Ying, and others. After Sun Xiu succeeded to the throne, Wei Yao was appointed as Chancellor of the Imperial Secretariat and Doctor of Classical Studies. Sun Xiu ordered Wei Yao to follow the example of Liu Xiang in editing various books. Sun Xiu also wanted Wei Yao to serve as a court lecturer, but General Zhang Bu, who was favored at the time but had many flaws in his actions, strongly opposed this, fearing that the Confucian scholar Wei Yao would use historical examples to caution Sun Xiu. Sun Xiu harbored a dislike for Zhang Bu, as noted in the "Biography of Sun Xiu." However, in the end, Wei Yao did not become a court lecturer. After Sun Hao succeeded to the throne, he appointed Wei Yao as the Marquis of Gaoling and further promoted him to Zhongshu Pushe, responsible for official documents, and later as a Shizhong, and often held the concurrent title of Left Historian. At that time, many people in the court were reporting good omens. Sun Hao asked Wei Yao, who responded, "These are just ordinary things you find in people's chests and cabinets." Sun Hao also wanted Wei Yao to write a biography for his father, Sun He, but Wei Yao insisted that since Sun He did not become emperor, it should be a biography instead. This happened on more than one occasion, gradually leading to Sun Hao harboring resentment towards Wei Yao. Wei Yao, feeling increasingly worried and fearful, confided in Sun Hao about his age and declining health, requesting to step down from his roles as Shizhong and national historian in order to focus on completing the book he was writing and seek another path. Sun Hao ultimately did not agree. At this time, Wei Yao fell ill again, and the court sent people to care for him, which only added to his stress.
It is said that Emperor Hao would drink from morning till night without end, where everyone sat together drinking. Each person was limited to seven liters; although not everyone necessarily drank it all, they were required to finish their drink. As for Yao, he usually only drank up to two liters. Initially, when he was in the emperor's favor, the emperor would always reduce his alcohol intake for him, sometimes even secretly giving him tea instead of alcohol. However, as the emperor's favor towards Yao began to wane, he forced him to drink, and if Yao couldn't finish it, he would be punished. Even more outrageous, after drinking, the emperor would have his attendants deliberately make things difficult for the ministers purely for his own amusement, even pointing out their shortcomings for his amusement. If the ministers made a mistake carelessly or said something offensive to the emperor, they would be either arrested or executed. Yao felt this situation couldn't continue, as it disrupted harmony both inside and out, and that was not good. So, he only spoke of the classics and shared some insights in front of the emperor, trying to avoid conflicts. However, Emperor Hao believed that Yao was disobedient and harbored disloyalty. Therefore, he unleashed all his accumulated resentment and threw Yao into prison, and that year was the second year of the Fenghuang reign.
Yao, in prison, wrote to the emperor through the jailer: "I have received your unparalleled grace. I have been unable to repay it and have instead betrayed your favor, committing a grave sin. I see that I am about to vanish and be consigned to the grave. I am filled with anxiety and wish to report some matters to Your Majesty. I have come across ancient records, many of which are false, and they are riddled with errors. I have researched various biographies, cross-checked differing accounts, and compiled the information I have gathered, and I have written a book titled 'Dong Ji', covering the period from Fuxi to the Qin and Han dynasties, consisting of three volumes. I intend to begin from the Huangwu period and write an additional volume, but it is not yet finished. I have also come across Liu Xi's 'Shi Ming', which contains much valuable content, but it involves a wide variety of items, making it challenging to cover every aspect, leading to inevitable omissions, especially in the records of titles. I believe that the system of official titles is of utmost importance today and must be free of errors. Though my abilities are limited, I have also composed a volume titled 'Official Position Training' and another titled 'Interpretation of Names' to present to Your Majesty. These books were just completed, but I have been imprisoned for my errors, and I am about to die. I cannot present these books to Your Majesty, so I can only compile a list of them before my death and request Your Majesty to keep them in the secret treasury, make them public, and present them to you. I fear that my thoughts are superficial and may not align with your intentions. I am filled with anxiety and earnestly beseech Your Majesty for mercy." Yao hoped to avoid punishment with this plea, but King Hao was more taken aback by the stains on his manuscript, so he questioned Yao again. Yao replied, "I wrote this book with the intention of presenting it to you. I was concerned about mistakes, so I read and revised it repeatedly, which led to it getting dirty. When you questioned me, I was so frightened that my entire body trembled and my face turned pale. I am willing to kowtow five hundred times and strike myself with both hands to express my apologies."
Hua He submitted multiple memorials for Yao, saying, "Yao's talent is rare in a thousand years. Your Majesty, you have recognized his talent and appointed him as a historiographer to serve in the palace and participate in discussions on national affairs, and that is truly an honor. The wise court is kind and benevolent, valuing the worship of ancestors. During the ancestral worship ceremony, you were moved to tears and ordered Yao to participate. Yao is foolish and lacks understanding, unable to fully express your virtues akin to those of Emperor Shun. As a result, he was imprisoned, which hindered the recording of Your Majesty's achievements and the recognition of good deeds. This is indeed Yao's ignorance and incompetence, a grave offense. However, I have observed that Yao has been diligent in his studies since childhood; even in old age, he continues to study extensively, studying the classics and applying their lessons to current events. His understanding of past and present events is unmatched among all officials. In the past, Li Ling, a general of the Han Dynasty, surrendered to the Xiongnu after being defeated in battle, yet Sima Qian did not hate him. Instead, he pleaded for Li Ling, and Emperor Wu of Han spared him because of Sima Qian's exceptional skills as a historian, wanting him to complete the writing of historical records. Therefore, he was not executed, and the book was eventually completed and has been passed down to this day. Now Yao is like Sima Qian of the Han Dynasty in the State of Wu. The 'Book of Wu' has taken form, but the commendatory passages have yet to be penned. In the past, Ban Gu wrote the 'Book of Han' with elegant prose, while later works such as the 'Records of the Han' by Liu Zhen and Liu Yi were far inferior, particularly in the biographical portions. The 'Book of Wu' will be passed down for generations and become an important historical book. Future scholars will judge its merits and faults. Without exceptional talents like Yao to see it through, it will leave an irreparable gap. If I am indeed stubborn and ignorant, then I am not a suitable candidate. Yao is already seventy years old, with little time left. I humbly ask Your Majesty to commute his death sentence to lifelong imprisonment, allowing him to complete his writing and let his works endure through the ages, leaving a lasting legacy. I kowtow one hundred times, requesting Your Majesty's approval."
King Hao refused to comply and ultimately exiled his family to Lingling. Yao's son, Long, also had some literary talent.
Hua Ji, with the style name Yongxian, was from Wuxi, Jiangsu. He initially served as the magistrate of Shangyu County and the agricultural officer, and was transferred to the capital as a secretariat official due to his educational background. He later rose to the position of Minister of the Central Secretariat.
When the state of Shu was destroyed by the state of Wei, Hua Ji ran to the palace gate and wrote a memorial: "I heard that the Wei army is as numerous as ants and is advancing to the west. The terrain to the west is dangerous, and I thought there was no danger. But later I heard that Lu Kang's report had arrived, Chengdu had fallen, the people of Shu were displaced, and the state was on the brink of collapse! In the past, the state of Wei was destroyed by the state of Di, Duke Huan was able to save his life, but now the distance is too far, there is no time to rescue, we have lost our land of refuge and abandoned the country that paid tribute. I feel like a blade of grass swaying in the wind, extremely uneasy. Your Majesty is wise and benevolent, with your grace extending across the realm, but now hearing such news, you must also be very sad! I am deeply concerned, which is why I have taken the liberty to submit this memorial to you."
After Sun Hao became emperor, he appointed Hua Ji as the Marquis of Xuling. In the second year of Baoding, Sun Hao began to build a new palace, grand in scale and opulent in decoration, using a large amount of pearls and jade. During the height of summer's heat, the construction of the palace overshadowed agricultural activities. Hua Ji wrote a memorial advising against it.
When I heard about Emperor Wen of Han, the realm was peaceful, and the common people happily escaped the cruel tyranny, embracing Liu Bang's benevolent rule. Emperor Wen of Han reduced corvée labor, simplified laws, and rekindled ties with the people, granting fiefs to princes in various regions to strengthen the Han dynasty. At that time, everyone thought the country was stable, as steadfast as Mount Tai, with a solid foundation. However, Jia Yi believed that one should weep and sigh in despair, comparing the current situation to sleeping beside a fire—feeling safe until the fire reaches you, when danger is right at hand. Later, turmoil did occur, fulfilling Jia Yi's prophecy. Although I am foolish and do not understand profound truths, I privately compare past events to the current situation... Several years have passed, the princes are brash and ambitious, while the Han Dynasty's prime ministers are falling ill and retiring to their homes, trying to govern the realm this way; even if Yao and Shun were to return, they wouldn't be able to handle it! Formidable enemies now control most of the realm, strong in military might, boasting extensive military experience, relying on past advantages to compete for supremacy with us, just like the fierce competition between Chu and Han in the past, not just a matter of the Han princes like the King of Huainan and the King of Jibei. When I felt the urge to weep bitterly in the past, the situation wasn't urgent, but now this urgent matter is more pressing than fighting fire with fire!
Your Majesty, look at the lessons of the past dynasties and the current situation. That's why we vigorously develop agriculture, accumulate a large amount of resources, show compassion for the people, and focus on military construction. Therefore, everyone is very grateful to Your Majesty and wants to contribute to the country. If we give up before good fortune comes, all nations will perish. Since then, powerful officials have ruled, defying both divine will and the people's wishes, forsaking the foundations of peace and stability, only seeking temporary benefits, initiating wars multiple times, depleting the treasury, exhausting the army and the people, leading to unrest. Those who are still alive are the remnants of the conquered and the suffering common folk of the past. This has led to a shortage of military resources, empty granaries, insufficient supplies of cloth year-round, combined with unemployment, making it hard for families to survive. Meanwhile, the north hoards food to feed the people, focusing solely on advancing eastward without any other concerns. Shu, as a western stronghold, with its strategic location and inheriting the governance skills of Liu Bei, believed it could hold out for a long time, but it unexpectedly fell overnight. As the saying goes, when the lips are gone, the teeth are left exposed. The various counties of Jiaozhou in the south of the country, Jiaozhi and Jiuzhen have already been lost, and Rinnan County is also in imminent danger, fighting for survival. The people north of Hepu are in panic, fleeing one after another; many have defected, the garrison has dwindled, and deterrence has weakened, with the risk of upheaval at any moment. Previously, pirates lurked in the eastern coastal counties, gathering many of the fleeing. They are familiar with seafaring, relying on past experiences, raiding, burning, and pillaging daily. Now we are surrounded on all sides by enemies, facing great difficulties from all directions. This is truly a critical moment for our nation's survival!
Therefore, those projects that harm the people and squander resources should be stopped immediately. We should prioritize preparing for defense and focus on boosting agricultural production to tackle potential future famines. I am worried that the farming season is nearly over, and spring planting is becoming overdue. If something were to happen, the army wouldn't be prepared. If we neglect these urgent measures in favor of construction, in case of a sudden war, we will have to set aside construction to deal with emergencies, forcing the discontented populace to confront the battle, which is precisely what the enemy desires! If we merely focus on defense, military supplies will dwindle over time, and without engaging in battle, the soldiers will soon be worn out.
Legend has it that during Tai Wu’s reign, mulberry trees in the palace spontaneously produced millet, which frightened him. He promptly focused on cultivating his moral character, and the strange occurrences vanished, leading to the prosperity of the Yin and Shang dynasties. In the era of Duke Jing of Song, he was concerned about Mars, which the people regarded as an omen of disaster. After consulting a diviner, Mars shifted its position, and Duke Jing enjoyed several more years of life. You see, nurturing moral character can resonate with all beings, and sincere speech can connect with the divine. I feel quite foolish for having stumbled into the palace as an official, lacking the ability to let your grace reach the divine. I feel both ashamed and uneasy, unsure of how to proceed.
I carefully pondered that the strange occurrences of Sanggu Shengting and Yinghuo Shouxin during the Taiwu era were signs of divine intervention for the two monarchs. As for the other minor demons and monsters, most of them are caused by the local deities at the gates. Upon closer inspection of the world, there haven't been any other significant changes. However, the recent auspicious signs have been coming in one after another; first, the appearance of the Mingzhu, followed by the arrival of the white sparrow. Our great Yin dynasty's enduring legacy is indeed blessed by the heavens! We have the vast land of Jiuzhou, the world is our home; how can we move around like ordinary people? Moreover, this palace was painstakingly built by the late emperor, and there were no bad omens during its construction. Furthermore, the land in Yangshi is adjacent to the palace. If the major project is completed and Your Majesty moves in, the local deities will also need to move. I worry that staying there long-term may not be an improvement. Constantly moving is not feasible, but not moving also makes people uneasy. This is why I am always concerned. I checked the Lunar Calendar and found that in this month of Jixia, one should not break ground, summon vassals, or raise troops, as it will surely bring disaster. Although vassals have not been summoned, their armies gathering together is no different. The Wujiri of the sixth month is a day when earth is dominant, so breaking ground is even more forbidden. Moreover, it is currently the busy farming season, so we can't afford to miss this timing! In the past, Duke Yin of Lu began construction in the summer, which was recorded in the Spring and Autumn Annals as a warning to future generations. Now, building this palace for the long-lasting grand foundation violates a significant heavenly taboo, similar to the events recorded in the Spring and Autumn Annals, overlooking the vital rituals to honor the heavens and our ancestors. As a simple-minded person, I truly cannot agree with this.
Alas, I am worried that some of the conscripted civilians may not be able to make it. If we chase after them, it will delay the project and require mobilizing a lot of manpower; if we don't pursue them, the delays will just keep piling up. If everyone comes, with so many people gathered together, what happens if someone gets sick? Furthermore, the common folks will only want to do good when they feel secure. If times are hard, they will harbor resentment towards rebellion. The elite soldiers from Jiangnan are tough for the North to handle; it is said that ten Northern soldiers can only resist one soldier from Jiangnan. The world isn’t settled yet, it is truly worrying! If the palace is completed and five thousand rebels are killed, the Northern army will increase by fifty thousand; if ten thousand die, it will increase by a hundred thousand! Those who are sick will die, and those who rebel will spread rumors; this is exactly what the enemy wants to see. We are about to battle the North to determine victory or defeat; this is a crucial time. They are growing stronger while we are losing, and on top of that, we’re exhausted. This is really concerning for those who know better!
I have heard that wise ancient kings governing a country would not merely prepare three years of food reserves, for if that were the case, the nation would not be a true nation. Even in times of peace and prosperity, we must be vigilant, much less now, when the enemy is formidable. We have been neglecting agriculture and animal husbandry. Although some crops have been planted recently, a while ago there was a flood, and many were submerged. The remaining crops need to be cultivated and harvested, but local officials fear they won't complete their tasks. They are urged by superiors to fell trees for palace construction, neglecting farming. The populace, including the elderly, women, and children, have less land available for farming. Should another drought or flood occur, we would be unable to harvest anything! The grain in the states and counties is saved for emergencies, and those who are idle depend on government provisions. If both the upper and lower levels face a food shortage, transportation cannot keep up, and northern enemies invade again, even if the Duke of Zhou, the Duke of Shao, Yi Yin, and Shang Yang were to return, they would not be able to help Your Majesty! I have heard that when a monarch is wise, the subjects remain loyal; when a monarch is sage, the subjects are upright. Therefore, I am risking severe repercussions to implore Your Majesty to consider my words carefully.
The memorial was submitted, but the emperor did not heed it. Later, I was appointed as the magistrate of Dongguan and concurrently in charge of the national history. I submitted a letter of gratitude, and the emperor replied, "I have received your memorial. Dongguan serves as the residence of Confucian scholars and is tasked with teaching the classics, collating texts, and solving difficult problems. During the Han Dynasty, this position was held by renowned scholars. I trust you will recommend some talented individuals. I have heard that you are well-versed in classics, have a broad knowledge of books, and are a lover of rituals and music, a proficient reader of poetry and literature. You should fully utilize your talents to extol the virtues of our current prosperous era, surpassing Yang Xiong, Ban Gu, Zhang Heng, and Cai Yong. Your humility is commendable, yet you should endeavor to excel in your duties, surpassing the sages, and no longer decline."
Ah, now the national treasury is empty, but the common people are becoming increasingly extravagant and wasteful. I wrote to the emperor saying: now the enemy is everywhere, the war is not over yet, and the country doesn't even have several years' worth of reserves, let alone the resources to deal with the war. This is something that the ruler of the country should deeply worry about!
Food and money are produced by the common people. The common people work hard in agriculture, which is the most important thing for the country. But the officials in the capital each manage different things, only caring about their own departments, not considering the hard work of the common people, casually demanding goods from the common people with very tight deadlines. Lower-level officials, fearing accountability, pressure the common people day and night. The common people are so busy that they can't farm, rushing to deliver goods to the capital. Some of the delivered goods remain unused, wasting the strength and time of the common people. When it's time to harvest in autumn, they rush to collect the grain, robbing the common people of the time they need to plant, and they also have to pay this year's taxes. If they fail to pay, their homes will be seized, so every household is poor and can't eat or dress warmly. All forms of corvée labor should be temporarily suspended to allow the common people to concentrate on agriculture. As the ancients wisely said, "If a man does not farm, he may go hungry; if a woman does not weave, she may feel the cold." Thus, wise rulers in ancient times prioritized agriculture above all else in their governance.
Since the war, it has been more than a hundred years. Farmers have abandoned their fields, and women have stopped using the looms. By this calculation, there must be many people who cannot eat their fill and are dressed in thin clothes and shivering. I heard that the emperor has two requirements of the people: to work for the country and to make sacrifices for it. The people have three expectations of the emperor: to eat when hungry, to rest when tired, and to be rewarded for their contributions. The people have fulfilled the emperor's two demands, but the emperor has not met the people's three expectations, which breeds resentment and hampers national affairs. Now the treasury is bare, the people are weighed down by heavy labor, the emperor has fulfilled his two demands, but the people's three expectations have not been met. Furthermore, hungry people can be satisfied without delicacies, and cold people can stay warm without fur coats. Delicacies are just a treat for the taste buds, and luxurious clothes are merely superficial adornments.
There are many pressing issues now, heavy burdens of labor, and the common people are poor, yet the prevailing culture is one of extravagance. The common people are preoccupied with making frivolous items; women focus on embroidering silk brocade instead of spinning hemp or weaving fabric, competing with each other and feeling ashamed if they don't measure up. Even soldiers and their families are adopting this extravagance, wearing silk and satin despite having no food at home. And as for the wealthy merchants, they have piles of gold and silver, living in extreme extravagance and waste. The world is still not at peace, and the lives of the common people are tough. We should fundamentally solve the people's livelihood issues, develop agriculture and the textile industry, abandon these impractical crafts, and cut down on wasteful extravagance. There should be no class distinctions in this matter; there should be no loss of money and resources. Now officials and soldiers have few children, some have one or two, while others have three or four. If each family is required to have one woman, there will be one woman for every ten thousand households, each producing one piece of cloth a year; that would mean ten thousand pieces. If the entire nation unites, we could accumulate a surplus of fabric within a few years. Let the common people wear colorful clothes and choose whatever they like, as long as impractical decorations are prohibited. Beautiful people do not need luxurious clothing to adorn themselves; attractive women do not need embroidery to attract others; colorful clothes are already beautiful enough. Even with heavy makeup and elaborate clothing, not everyone is beautiful; even without makeup and plain clothes, not everyone is ugly. Those things that are irrelevant, what's there to admire about them? Why not temporarily ban them to address the urgent needs of the national treasury? This is the most pressing issue to tackle poverty, the essential task of building a prosperous nation. Even if figures like Guan Zhong and Yan Ying were brought back, they wouldn't change this perspective. Emperor Wen and Emperor Jing of the Han Dynasty, after a long period of peace, with no threat of war from all directions, still thought that decorative carvings would harm agriculture, and embroidery would affect women's weaving, so they took measures to develop the economy and eliminate hunger and cold. "Now the enemy is rampant, the conquest is not over," "If one man doesn't farm, he'll go hungry; if one woman doesn't weave, she'll feel the cold."
Now the world is in disarray, filled with wicked people like wolves; wars are raging on, and soldiers are all armored and helmeted. How can we find the time to develop the economy and fill the treasury? This ancient text conveys that the nation is fragmented, rife with malevolent individuals, and wars are continuous. It conveys a sense of despair and concern, believing that during times of war, developing the economy and enriching the treasury are simply impossible to achieve. Put simply, when the nation is in such turmoil, what’s the use of discussing economic development? Let’s win the war first!
Lao Hua Ji has grown old; the emperor commanded him to draft a memorial, and Hua Ji did not dare to refuse. The emperor urged him to write quickly, even standing there waiting for him. Hua Ji wrote: "I am merely a humble servant, an ordinary person akin to grass and weeds. I am deeply honored to receive the emperor's grace. Crawling out of the mud, now serving in the court. Bathed in the sunlight of the palace, moving in and out of the court. I am like sucking nectar, bathing in the warm spring breeze, trying my best, but falling short, feeling unworthy of the emperor's grace. Your favor nourishes me like rain and dew, forgiving my shortcomings; your kindness is profound. I, a humble person, have actually received your appreciation and been able to display my talents. I truly cannot repay your kindness; I can only pray for your continued blessings. Your grace falls like rain and dew, forgiving my faults. You even let me draft couplets, allowing my talents to benefit the people. I dare not disobey your orders, fearing to commit a crime. I accept your orders with trembling, scared to death."
Hua Ji had previously submitted numerous memorials outlining his suggestions, recommending talented individuals, explaining his mistakes, and writing hundreds of memorials, all of which benefited the country, but far too many to enumerate. In the first year of the Tian Ce era, he was dismissed from his post for a minor infraction, and he passed away a few years later. The memorials submitted by Wei Yao and Hua Ji have been preserved through the ages.
People say that Xue Ying noted Wang Fan is known for his outstanding character and extensive knowledge and talent; Lou Xuan is honest and upright, with a quick wit; He Shao is known for his noble aspirations and clear thinking; Wei Yao is diligent and studious, well-read, and talented in writing. Hu Chong believes that Lou Xuan, He Shao, and Wang Fan were all outstanding officials known for their integrity during that time, and it’s hard to tell them apart. If they had to be ranked, Lou Xuan would come in first, with He Shao in second. Hua Ji's talent for poetry surpasses that of Wei Yao, but he falls short in writing imperial edicts. I think Hua Ji has consistently offered valuable suggestions and served the country wholeheartedly, earning the title of a loyal minister. However, these individuals lived in turbulent times, yet they managed to secure prominent positions and barely survive, which is quite fortunate.
