| | 長沙太守... : |
長沙太守汝南郅惲君章，少時為郡功曹。郡俗冬饗，百里內縣，皆齎牛酒，到府宴飲。時太守司徒歐陽歙臨饗，禮訖，教曰：「西部督郵繇延，天資忠貞，稟性公方，典部折衝，摧破姦雄，不嚴而治。《書》曰：『安民則惠，黎民懷之。』蓋舉善以教，則不能者勸。今與諸儒共論延功，顯之于朝。」主簿讀教，戶吏引延受賜。惲前跪曰：「司正舉觥，以君之罪，告謝于天。明府有言而誤，不可覆掩。按延資性貪邪，外方內圓，朋黨構姦，罔上害民，所在荒亂，虛而不治，怨慝並作，百姓苦之。而明府以惡為善，股肱莫爭。此既無君，又復無臣。君臣俱喪，孰與偏有？君雖傾危，臣子扶持，不至於亡，惲敢再拜奉觥。」歙甚慚。 |
| | Changsha Taishou Runan Zhiyun Junzhang was a young official serving as a gongcao of the commandery. During winter banquets, which were customary in the commandery, all counties within a hundred li brought oxen and wine to the governor's office for feasting. At that time, the Taishou Situ Ouyang Xi was attending the banquet. After the ceremony of courtesy had concluded, he instructed: "The western region's douchou You Yan is naturally loyal and steadfast, possesses an upright and impartial character by nature, administers his district with decisive action, crushes evildoers and villains, and brings order without resorting to severity." The Book of Documents says: "He who brings peace to the people is kind; the common people will cherish him." By promoting virtue as an example, those who are less capable will be encouraged. Now I shall discuss You Yan's achievements with the learned men and recommend him to the court." The zhubu read out the instruction, and the household clerk led You Yan to receive the reward. Zhiyun knelt forward and said: "The official in charge of justice raised a cup, citing your crimes, to apologize to heaven." Your Honor has made an erroneous statement; it cannot be concealed. Investigation reveals that You Yan is by nature greedy and wicked, outwardly upright but inwardly scheming; he forms factions to commit villainy, deceives superiors and harms the people. Wherever he has been stationed, disorder and neglect have prevailed, with no real governance. Grievances and resentment have arisen together, and the common people suffer under his rule. Yet Your Honor has mistaken evil for virtue, and your trusted advisors dare not contest it. This is a case of having no sovereign and also no loyal subject. When both ruler and minister are lost, to whom can one turn? Although the ruler may be in peril, subjects and ministers should support him so that he does not perish. Zhiyun dares to bow twice and present a cup." Ouyang Xi was deeply ashamed.
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| | 長沙太守... : |
謹按：《禮》、諫有五，風為上，狷為下。故入則造膝，出則詭辭，善則稱君，過則稱己。暴諫露言，罪之大者。而歙於饗中，用延為吏，以紫亂朱，大妨王命，造次顛沛，不及諷諭，雖舉觥彊歙可行也。今惲久見授任，職在昭德塞違，為官擇人，知延貪邪，罔上害民，所在荒亂，怨慝並作，此為惡積愆，非一旦一夕之漸也。孔子以匹夫，朋徒無幾，習射矍相之圃，三哲而去者過半。汝南、中土大郡，方城四十，養老復敬化之。至延姦舋彰著，無與比崇。臧文仲有言：「見無禮於君者，若鷹鸇之逐鳥雀。」「農夫之務去草也。」何敢宿留？不即彈黜姦佞，而須於萬人之中，乃暴引之，是為陷君。君子不臨深以為高，不囚少以為多，況創病君父以為己功者哉！而論者苟眩虛聲，以為美談。汝南、楚之界也，其俗急疾有氣決。然自君章之後，轉相放式，好干上怵忮，以采名譽，末流論起於愛憎，而政在陪隸也。 |
| | Careful examination: According to the Rites, there are five forms of remonstration; the highest is to offer gentle advice through allusion or suggestion, while the lowest is blunt and harsh criticism. Therefore, when entering court, one should approach closely to speak; when leaving, one should use indirect words. Virtues are attributed to the ruler, and faults are taken upon oneself. Blunt remonstration with harsh words is a grave offense. Yet Ouyang Xi, during the banquet, used You Yan as an official, confusing purple with vermilion, greatly disrupting royal authority. In such a hasty and disorderly situation, he failed to offer gentle admonition; even so, raising a cup was a strong way for Ouyang Xi to proceed. Now Zhiyun has long been entrusted with official duties, and his responsibility is to promote virtue and prevent wrongdoing. He was tasked with selecting suitable officials; knowing that You Yan was greedy and wicked, deceived superiors, harmed the people, caused disorder wherever he served, and provoked widespread resentment and corruption—this constitutes accumulated evil and serious misconduct, not a gradual development over just one day or night. Confucius, as an ordinary man with few followers, taught archery in the orchard of Jueliang; more than half of those who came left after three wise teachings. Runan, a major commandery in the central lands, has forty surrounding walled cities and nurtures the elderly through repeated instruction and moral cultivation. By this time, You Yan's villainy had become clearly evident, with no one to rival or surpass it in severity. Zang Wenzhong once said: "When one sees someone who is disrespectful toward the ruler, he should act like a hawk chasing down birds and sparrows." "The farmer's duty is to remove weeds." How dare one allow such a person to remain? Not promptly censuring and dismissing the wicked and sycophants, but instead publicly promoting them among ten thousand people, is to entrap the ruler. A gentleman does not claim height by standing at a precipice, nor does he boast of quantity by capturing few. How much more so for one who harms the ruler and father in order to claim personal merit! Yet some commentators are blindly dazzled by empty reputation, regarding it as a fine tale. Runan is on the border of Chu; its people have a customs marked by urgency and decisiveness. Yet since the time of Junzhang, people have imitated one another's example, becoming eager to challenge superiors and act out of jealousy, all for the sake of gaining reputation. Later interpretations arose from personal likes and dislikes, while governance fell into the hands of subordinates.
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| | 司空潁川... : |
司空頴川韓稜，少時為郡主簿。太守興被風病，恍忽誤亂，稜陰扶輔其政，出入二年，署置教令無愆失。興子嘗出教，欲轉徙吏，稜執不聽，由是發露被考，興免官，稜坐禁固。章帝即位，一切原除也。 |
| | Sikong Yingchuan Han Leng was a young man when he served as a shubu of the commandery. The Tai Shou was afflicted with a wind-related illness, and became delirious and confused. Han Leng secretly assisted in the administration of government affairs; for two years he issued decrees and orders without any mistakes or failures. Once, the son of Xing went out to issue an order and wanted to transfer officials. Han Leng refused to comply, and as a result, the matter was exposed and investigated; Xing was dismissed from office, and Han Leng was punished with imprisonment. When Emperor Zhang ascended the throne, all past offenses were pardoned and forgiven.
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| | 司空潁川... : |
謹按《易》稱：「守位以仁。」《尚書》：「無曠庶官。」《詩》云：「彼君子不素飡兮。」《論語》：「陳力就列，不能者止。」漢典，吏病百日，應免。所以卹民急病，懲俗逋慝也。今興官尊任重，經略千里，當聽訟侍祠，班詔勸課，早朝旰食，夕惕若厲，不以榮祿為樂，而以黔首為憂。位過招殃，靈督其舋，風疾恍忽，有加無瘳。稜統機括，知其虛實，當聽上病，以禮選引。何有上欺天子，中誣方伯，下誑吏民！扶輔耄亂，政自己出，雖幸無闕，罪已不容於誅矣。為人謀而不忠，愛人而以姑息，凡人不可，況於君子乎？上令興負貪昧之罪，子被署用之愆，章問洶赫，父子湮沒。執事如此，謂禮義何？稜宜禁固終身，中原非是。 |
| | Carefully according to the Yijing: "Maintain one's position through benevolence." The Shangshu says: "Do not neglect the duties of officials." The Shi Jing says: "Those gentlemen do not eat without laboring." The Lunyu states: "If one can contribute his strength, he should take up a position; if not, then he should stop." According to Han dynasty regulations, an official who was ill for 100 days should be dismissed. This is done in order to relieve the urgent needs of the people and punish corrupt customs and hidden evils. Now Xing holds an esteemed position and bears great responsibility, overseeing a region of a thousand li. He should hear lawsuits and attend sacrifices, issue imperial edicts to encourage the people, rise early for court and dine late, remain vigilant at night as if on thin ice; he does not take pleasure in honor and wealth, but is concerned about the welfare of the common people. Excessive rank invites misfortune; divine retribution watches for his faults. His wind-related illness has left him delirious, and it is worsening without improvement. Han Leng managed the situation skillfully, understanding its true nature; he should have reported his superior's illness and recommended a replacement according to proper protocol. How could one deceive the Son of Heaven above, falsely accuse local officials in the middle, and mislead government officers and common people below! Assisting an elderly and confused superior while taking administrative decisions for oneself, even if fortunate enough to avoid mistakes, the crime is already grave enough to warrant punishment. To act disloyally in serving others, or to show affection by indulging them—this is unacceptable for ordinary people, let alone for a gentleman? The emperor ordered Xing to bear the guilt of greed and corruption, while his son was held responsible for misusing official appointments. The imperial inquiry was intense and overwhelming, leading to the downfall of both father and son. If officials act in this manner, what becomes of propriety and righteousness? Han Leng should be imprisoned for life; the Central Plains cannot tolerate such conduct.
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| | 太原周黨: |
太原周黨伯況，少為卿佐發黨過於人中辱之。黨學《春秋》長安，聞報讎之義，輟講下辭歸報讎。到與卿佐相聞，期鬭日，卿佐多從正往，使卿佐先拔刀，然後相擊。佐欲直，令正擊之，黨被創，困之，佐服其義勇，箯輿養之；數日蘇興，乃知非其家，即徑歸。其立勇果，乃至於是。 |
| | Zhou Dang Baikuang of Taiyuan, when young, was an assistant to a high official and publicly shamed someone in the crowd. Dang Xue studied The Spring and Autumn Annals in Chang'an, heard of the virtue of avenging an injury, stopped his lectures, resigned from office, and returned home to avenge. When he arrived, he contacted the assistant official and arranged a day for their fight. The assistant official brought many followers to the appointed place, had the assistant official draw his sword first, and then they fought each other. The assistant wanted to strike directly, ordered the official to attack him, and Dang was wounded. When he was cornered, the assistant was moved by his righteousness and bravery, carried him on a stretcher for medical care; After several days of recovery, he regained consciousness and realized it was not his home, so he immediately returned directly. His courage and decisiveness were fully demonstrated in this incident.
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| | 太原周黨: |
謹按《孝經》：「身體髮膚，受之父母，不敢毀傷，孝之始也。」樂正子春下堂而傷足，三月不出，既瘳矣，猶有憂色。身無擇行，口無擇言，脩身慎行，恐辱先也。而伯況被發，則得就業，卿佐雖云凶暴，何緣侵己？今見辱者，必有以招之，自取焉，何尤於人？親不可辱，在我何傷？讎者，謂為父兄耳，豈以一朝之忿而肆其狂怒者哉？既遠《春秋》之義，殆今先祖不復血食，不孝不智，而兩有之；歸其義勇，其義何居？ |
| | Carefully according to The Classic of Filial Piety: "One's body, hair, and skin are received from one's parents; one must not dare to damage or injure them. This is the beginning of filial piety." Yuezhang Zichun fell downstairs and injured his foot; for three months he did not go out. Even after the injury had healed, he still showed a worried expression. One should not choose one's actions carelessly and must not speak recklessly; cultivate oneself with cautious conduct, fearing to bring disgrace upon ancestors. Yet Baikuang cut his hair and thus was able to take up a job; although the assistant official is said to be fierce and violent, what reason did he have to harm himself? Now those who are humiliated must have done something to invite it; they bring disgrace upon themselves, so why blame others? Parents cannot be insulted. If one's parents are dishonored, how can the child remain unscathed? Revenge is meant for one's father or elder brother; would a person let a momentary anger lead to reckless rage? Having gone far from the meaning of The Spring and Autumn Annals, he has likely caused his ancestors to no longer receive sacrifices; this is both unfilial and unwise, and he possesses both. Returning from the act of righteousness and bravery, where then does true righteousness lie?
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| | 汝南陳茂: |
汝南陳茂君因為荊州刺史，時南陽太守灌恂，本名清能，茂不入宛城，引車到城東，為友人衛修母拜，到州。恂先是茂客，仕蒼梧還，到修家，見修母婦，說修坐事繫獄當死。因詣府門，移辭乞恩，隨輩露首，入坊中，容止嚴恪，鬚眉甚偉。太守大驚，不覺自起，立賜巾延請，甚嘉敬之，即焉出修，南陽士大夫謂恂能救解修。茂彈繩不撓，修竟極罪，恂亦以它事去。南陽疾惡殺修，為之語曰：「衛修有事，陳茂治之；衛修無事，陳茂殺之。」 |
| | Ru Nan Chen Mao jun wei yinwei Jing Zhou Ci Shi, shi Nanyang Tai Shou Guan Xun, benming Qingneng, Mao bu ru Wan Cheng, yin che dao Cheng Dong, wei youren Wei Xiu mu bai, dao zhou. Xun qian shi Mao ke, shi Cangwu huan, dao Xiu jia, jian Xiu mu fu, shuo Xiu zuo shi xi yu dang si. Yin yi fu men, yi ci qi en, sui bei lu shou, ru fang zhong, rong zhi yan ke, xu mei shen wei. Tai Shou da jing, bu jue zi qi, li ci jin yan qing, shen jia jing zhi, ji yan chu Xiu, Nanyang Shi Da Fu wei Xun neng jiu jie Xiu. Mao dan sheng bu nao, Xiu jing ji zui, Xun yi yi ta shi qu. Nanyang ji e sha Xiu, wei zhi yu yue: "Wei Xiu you shi, Chen Mao zhi zhi; Wei Xiu wu shi, Chen Mao sha zhi."
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| | 汝南陳茂: |
謹按：《春秋》：「王人之微，處于諸侯之上。」坐則專席，止則專館，朱軒駕駟，威烈赫奕。就恂素為官速謗，當便入傳，引見詰問，紏其贓狀，以時列聞。文王日昃不暇食，周公坐而俟旦，且非為己私，皆公也。何有忘百姓塗炭之急，便迺光昭舊交之門乎？鮑宣州牧，行部多宿下亭，司直舉劾，以為輕威損命，坐之刑黜。今茂泯棄天常，進止由己。孰使毀之？小人譽之，自我為之，古人病諸，以為大譏。茂與修善，由鴟鴞之愛其子，適所以害之者。 |
| | Jin an: "Chun Qiu": "Wang ren zhi wei, chu yu zhu hou zhi shang." Zuo ze zhuan xi, zhi ze zhuan guan, Zhu Xuan jia si, wei lie he yi. Jiu Xun su wei guan su bang, dang bian ru chuan, yin jian jie wen, jiu qi zang zhuang, yi shi lie wen. Wen Wang ri ze bu xia shi, Zhou Gong zuo er si dan, qie fei wei ji si, jie gong ye. He you wang bai xing tu tan zhi ji, bian nai guang zhao jiu jiao zhi men hu? Bao Xuan Zhou Zhu, xing bu duo su xiuting, Si Zhi ju he, yi wei qing wei sun ming, zuo zhi xing chu. Jin Mao min qi tian chang, jin zhi you ji. Shu shi hui zhi? Xiaoren yu zhi, zi wo wei zhi, gu ren bing zhu, yi wei da ji. Mao yu Xiu shan, you chi xiao zhi ai qi zi, shi suo yi hai zhi zhe.
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| | 度遼將軍... : |
度遼將軍安定皇甫規威明，連在大位，欲退避弟，數上病，不見聽。會友人上郡太守旻物故，規素縞到下亭迎喪，發服送之。因令客密告并州刺史胡芳，言規擅遠軍營，赴私違公，當及舉奏。荅曰：「威明欲得避弟，故作激發。我為朝廷惜其功用，何能為此私家計耶？」規為中郎將，督并、涼、益三州，時有黨事，懼見及，因先自上言：「臣前薦故太常張煥，才任將帥，是附黨也。又臣論輸左校時，太學生張鳳等上書訟臣，是為黨人所附也。昔有畏舟危而自投水，蓋憂難與處樂其亟決。」 |
| | Du Liaojiangjun Aiding Huangfugui Weiming, who had held high office for many years, wished to step down and avoid taking his brother's place. He repeatedly claimed illness, but was not granted permission. When a friend of his, Shangjun Taishou Min, died, Huangfugui, who had always worn plain white clothing, went to the lower pavilion to meet the funeral procession and observed mourning rites for him. He then ordered a guest to secretly inform Bingzhou Cishi Hu Fang that Huangfugui had 擅自 left the military camp for private matters, violating official duties and should be reported. He replied, "Weiming wants to avoid taking his brother's place, so he is deliberately provoking a reaction." "I am sparing the court from losing such an able official; how could I do something for my own private interests?" Huangfugui served as Zhonglangjiang, overseeing Bing, Liang, and Yi provinces. At that time there was a factional affair, and fearing he would be implicated, he first submitted a report on his own initiative: "In the past I recommended former Taichang Zhang Huan, whose talents were suitable for command positions; this is an act of affiliating with a faction." "Moreover, when I was being punished and sent to Zuoxiao, Taixuesheng Zhang Feng and others submitted a memorial in my defense; this means I am affiliated with the factional group." In the past, there were those who feared the danger of a boat and threw themselves into the water; this is because they quickly decided to endure hardship rather than enjoy ease.
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| | 度遼將軍... : |
謹按：《詩》云：「淑人君子，其儀不忒。其儀不忒，正是四國。」《傳》曰：「一心可以事百君，百心不可事一君。」《論語》：「夫子溫、良、恭、儉、讓以得之。」立朝忘家，即戎忘身。身且忘之，況於弟乎！方殊俗越溢，大為邊害，朝廷比辟公旰食。規義在出身，折衝弭難；而誅伐已定，當見鎮慰。何有挾功，苟念去位？弟實雋德，不患無位。而徒闒茸，何所堪施？彊推轂之，亂儀干度。孝武皇帝為驃騎將軍霍去病治弟舍，勑令視之，曰：「匈奴不滅，何以家為？」去病外戚末屬，一切武夫，尚能抗節洪毅，而規世家純儒，何獨負哉？又以黨事先自勞衒。如有白驗，其於及己，而形兆求不可得，唯是從，何憚於病？曰：「畏舟之危，自投於水，憂難於處樂其亟決。」主幸必不坐。《太誓》有云：「民之所欲，天必從之。」「天作孽，猶可違；自作孽，不可逭。」人之所忌，炎自取之。蓋、嚴、楊惲，勳著王室，言事過差，皆伏大辟，以隆主威，抑驕侵也。規顧弟，私也；離局，姦也；誘巧，詐也；畏舟，慢也。四罪是矣，殺決可也。 |
| | Carefully examined: The "Shijing" says, "A virtuous gentleman, his conduct is without error." "His conduct is without error; this is precisely the model for all four states." The "Chuan" says: "With a single mind, one can serve a hundred rulers; with a hundred minds, one cannot serve even a single ruler." The "Lunyu" says: "The Master attained it through warmth, kindness, respect, frugality, and humility." When in court, he forgot his family; when on campaign, he forgot himself. If one forgets oneself, how much more so for a younger brother! At that time, the barbarian tribes were overflowing and causing great harm to the borders; the court had repeatedly delayed meals in urgent efforts. Huangfugui, loyal from his very beginning, repelled enemies and quelled difficulties; and since the campaign had already achieved success, he should be commended and comforted. How could one cling to merit and selfishly wish to resign from office? His younger brother is indeed virtuous; there should be no concern about lacking a position. But he is merely mediocre and shallow—what could possibly justify entrusting him with anything? Forcibly promoting such a person would disrupt proper conduct and violate established standards. Emperor Xiaowu had a house built for his younger brother, General Biaoqi Jiangjun Huo Qubing, and ordered him to inspect it. He said, "Unless the Xiongnu are destroyed, what need is there for a home?" Huo Qubing was an imperial relative of humble status, merely a martial man; yet he could still uphold his integrity with great courage. Huangfugui is from a distinguished family and a true Confucian scholar—how then can he be considered lacking? Moreover, by addressing the factional matter himself before it was raised, he demonstrated his own diligence and virtue. If there is no clear evidence to prove guilt, how can one be implicated? If no signs or accusations are found, then following the example of others should not be feared—why fear illness for that reason? It is said: "Fearing the danger of a boat, one throws oneself into the water—this is quickly deciding to endure hardship rather than seek ease." The ruler will surely not hold him accountable. The "Taishi" says: "What the people desire, Heaven must follow." "Heaven's calamity is still avoidable; "Self-inflicted misfortune, however, cannot be escaped." What people fear most is what they bring upon themselves. Gai, Yan, and Yang Yun had distinguished themselves with great service to the royal house. Yet when they made excessive remarks or errors in their advice, they were all executed by capital punishment. This was done to strengthen imperial authority and curb arrogance and encroachment. Huangfugui's concern for his younger brother is a private matter; leaving his post is an act of treachery; using cunning, is deception; fearing the boat, is negligence. These four offenses are clear; a decision to execute is justified.
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| | 南陽五世... : |
南陽五世公為廣漢太守，與司徒長史叚遼叔同歲。遼叔太子名舊，才操鹵鈍，小子髡既見齒鄉黨。到見股肱曰：「太守與遼叔同歲，恩結締素，薄命早亡，幸來臨郡，今年且以此相饒，舉其子，如無罪，得至後歲貫魚之次，敬不有違。」有主簿柳對曰：「明府謹終追遠，興微繼絕；然舊實不如髡，宜可授之。」世公於是厲聲曰：「丈夫相臨，兒女尚欲舉之，何謂高下之間耶？釋兄用弟，此為故殃段氏之家，豈稱相遭遇之意乎？」竟舉舊也。世公轉換南陽，與東萊太守蔡伯起同歲，欲舉其，起自乞子瓚尚弱，而弟琰幸以。是歲舉琰，明年復舉瓚。瓚十四未可見眾，常稱病，遣詣生，交到十八，乃始出治劇平春長。上書：「臣甫弱冠，未任宰御，乞留宿衛。」尚書劾奏：「增年受選，減年避劇，請免瓚官。」詔書：「左遷武當左尉。」會車騎將軍馮緄南征武陵蠻、夷，緄與伯起同時公府辟，瓚為軍曲候。瓚歸臥家，軍功除新陽長，官至下邳相。 |
| | Nanyang Wushi Gong was the Tai Shou of Guanghan, and he was from the same year as Jia Liaoshu, the Changshi of Siku. Jia Liaoshu's eldest son was named Jiu; he had mediocre talent and conduct, while the younger boy Kun, after being castrated, began to be recognized by his fellow townspeople. Dao, upon meeting the pillar of his administration, said: "The Tai Shou and Jia Liaoshu were from the same year; their bond was deepened by kindness and long-standing ties. Unfortunately, he died young. I am fortunate to have come to govern this commandery. This year, I will therefore show leniency toward him, recommending his son. If found innocent, he may attain a position in the order of promotion next year, following the sequence like fish through a river—this is something I shall respect and not violate." A chief clerk named Liu replied: "Your Honor's reverence for the past and remembrance of distant ancestors revives what is fading and continues what has been cut off; yet Jiu was indeed less capable than Kun, so it would be appropriate to bestow the position upon him." Wushi Gong then raised his voice sternly and said, "When men govern together, even one's sons or daughters wish to be recommended—what is meant by distinctions of high and low?" "To release the elder brother in favor of the younger one would bring misfortune to the Duan family; how could that be considered a proper way to meet and deal with each other?" In the end, Jiu was recommended. Wushi Gong later transferred to Nanyang, where he was from the same year as Cai Boqi, the Tai Shou of Donglai. Wushi Gong wished to recommend him, but Qi himself requested that his son Zan, who was still young and weak, not be considered, while his younger brother Yan happened to qualify. In this year, Yan was recommended; the following year, Zan was again recommended. Zan, at fourteen, was not yet fit to appear before the public; he often claimed illness and sent someone in his place. After attending school until eighteen, he finally emerged to serve as the head of Juping Chun Chang. He submitted a memorial: "I am but newly come of age, and not yet qualified to serve as an official or attendant; I humbly request permission to remain in the palace guard." The Shangshu impeached him, stating: "He falsely increased his age to qualify for selection and then reduced it to avoid a difficult post; we request that Zan's office be revoked." An imperial edict was issued: "Zan is demoted to the position of Zuoyu in Wudang." At that time, the Chaji General Feng Qian was leading a southern campaign against the Wuling Man and Yi. Qian had been concurrently appointed to office in the public service at the same time as Boqi; Zan served as an officer of military intelligence for the army. Zan returned home and lay idle, but was later appointed to serve as Xinyang Chang due to military merit; he eventually attained the position of Xiaopi Xiang.
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| | 南陽五世... : |
謹按古無孝廉，唯有貢士。貢士恩義，經傳無以也。春秋諸侯朝覲會遇，大夫亦豫其好。《禮記》曰：「大夫三月葬，同位畢至。」此言謹終悼亡，不說子弟當見寵拔也。魯有右成叔聘衛，右宰穀留而觴之，陳樂而不樂，酒酣而不飲，送以璧，其妻孥，𨽦宅而居之，分祿而食之，其子長乃辟。孔子稱：「可寄百里之命，託六尺之孤，臨大節而不可奪。」相於之義，具於此矣。語有曰：「白頭如新，交蓋如舊。」簞食壺漿，會於樹陰。臨別眷眷，念在報效。何有同歲相臨而可拱默者哉？《春秋》因其可褒而褒之，若乃世公二郡之舉，斯為過矣。然世人亦多淺薄，在者無之，亡者無顧覆之施，飢寒緩急，視之若遺。非徒如此而已，至有可否之際，受刑誅者。人各有心，兩不得中。夫孝廉平除，則有社稷民人，傷及民人，實宜料度，以為後圖。 |
| | It is carefully noted that in ancient times there was no such thing as "xiaolian"; there were only recommended scholars (gongshi). The recommendation of gongshi was based on grace and righteousness, which are not explicitly recorded in the classics or transmitted texts. In the Spring and Autumn Annals, when feudal lords paid homage or met each other, their ministers also participated in these friendly gatherings. The "Book of Rites" states: "Three months after a high official's death, he is buried, and all those of the same rank attend in full." This statement emphasizes reverently honoring the end of life and mourning the deceased; it does not speak of sons or younger generations being favored or promoted. In the State of Lu, You Chengshu was sent as an envoy to Wei. The Right Minister Guo retained him and offered a banquet; music was played but he did not enjoy it, wine was poured but he did not drink. He was given a jade disc, his wife and children were housed in a residence, and they were provided with part of the official's salary for food. Only when his son grew up did he finally resign from office. Confucius praised: "He could be entrusted with the governance of a hundred li, and relied upon to protect an orphaned child; in times of great crisis, his resolve could not be shaken." The meaning of mutual trust between officials is fully illustrated here. There is a saying: "Even with white hair, one may still be as new; even if long separated, old friends remain." A bamboo basket of food and a pot of soup—meeting under the shade of a tree. At parting, they were full of affectionate feelings, remembering their duty to repay kindness with service. How could there be those who remain silent and indifferent when meeting someone from the same year? The "Spring and Autumn Annals" praised those who were worthy of commendation. However, the two appointments made by Wushi Gong in his commanderies went beyond what was appropriate. Yet many people in the world are shallow and heartless; those who are present offer no support, and those who have passed away receive no care or posthumous honors. In times of hunger, cold, or urgent need, they are treated as if forgotten. It is not only in such matters; even when it comes to decisions of approval or disapproval, there are those who suffer punishment and execution. Each person has their own mind; neither side can be entirely right. If the selection of xiaolian is to be fair and impartial, then it must consider the state and its people. To harm the people is indeed something that should be carefully considered for future planning.
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| | 汝南戴幼... : |
汝南戴幼起，三年服竟，讓財與兄，將妻子出客舍中，住官池田以耕種。為上計史，獨車載衣資，表汝南太守上計史戴紹車。後舉孝廉，為陝令。 |
| | Ruanan Dai Youqi, after completing three years of mourning rites, gave his property to his elder brother and took his wife and children out of the family residence into an inn, living by the official pond fields to farm. As a Shangji Shi (an official responsible for submitting annual reports), he alone traveled in a cart carrying only clothes and provisions, and presented the cart of Dai Shao, the Shangji Shi of Runan Commandery. Later recommended as a filial and upright official (Xiaolian), he became the magistrat of Shan.
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| | 汝南戴幼... : |
謹按：《禮》有東宮西宮，辟子之私，不足則資，有餘亦歸之於宗也。此言兄弟無離異之義也。凡讓財者類與弟，子弟尚幼，恩情注，希有與兄。既出之日，可居冢下。冢無屋，宗家猶有羸田廬田，可首粥力者耳，何必官池客舍？推獨車，復表其上，為其飾偽，良亦昭。辟有薛孟嘗者，與弟子共居，弟子常求分，力不能止，固乃聽之，都與，奴婢引其老者，曰：「與我共事，汝不能使之。」田屋取其荒壞者，曰：「我少時所作買，意所戀也。」器物取其久者，曰：「我服食久，身口安之也。」外有共分之名，內實十三耳。子弟無幾盡之，輒復更分，如此者數。傳稱袁盎三兄子分而供其公家之費，此則然矣。《論語》：「泰伯三讓，民無得而稱之焉。」何有讓數十萬，畏人而不知，欲令皦皦，乃如是乎？方之袁、薛，差以千里。凡同居，上也；通有無，次也；讓，其下耳。況若幼起，仍斯不足貴矣。 |
| | Carefully examined: The Rites mention an eastern palace and a western palace; the private matters of the heir should be insufficient, then supported by the family, and if there is surplus, it also belongs to the clan. This statement emphasizes that brothers should not have the meaning of separation or discord. Generally, those who give up their property tend to give it to their younger brothers; when a younger brother is still young, affection and feelings are strong, so it is rare for someone to give the property to his elder brother. On the day of departure, one may reside near the tomb. The tomb has no house; the clan still possesses some barren or cultivated fields, which can be used for one's initial efforts to work and earn a living. Why then must one live in an official pond area or an inn? Promoting the single cart, again presenting it above, as a means of embellishing falsehoods, is clearly inappropriate. There was a man named Xue Mengchang from the family of Bi, who lived together with his disciple. The disciple often requested to divide property, and despite repeated efforts to stop him, he finally agreed. He gave everything away, including slaves and servants, taking only the elderly ones and saying, "I have shared in their service; you cannot make use of them." He took only the wasteland and dilapidated houses, saying, "These were built or bought by me when I was young; they are what I am attached to." He took only the old utensils, saying, "I have used and eaten with these for a long time; my body and mouth are accustomed to them." Externally there was the name of shared division, but internally it actually amounted to only thirteen parts. The younger generation did not exhaust their share; they would often request further divisions again and again, doing so on multiple occasions. It is recorded that Yuan Ang's three elder brothers' sons divided their property to support the expenses of his official household; this case was indeed so. The Analects: "Tai Bo made three acts of yielding, and the people found no way to praise him." How could there be someone who gives up hundreds of thousands and fears others' knowledge, yet desires clarity, acting in such a way? Compared to Yuan and Xue, the difference is as great as a thousand li. Living together in one household is the highest ideal; Sharing resources and necessities comes next; Yielding one's share is the lowest of these. Moreover, in the case of Youqi, this act remains insufficient and thus not particularly admirable.
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| | 江夏太守... : |
江夏太守河內趙仲讓，舉司隸茂材，為高唐令，密乘轝車，徑至高唐，變易名姓，止都亭中十餘日。默入市里，觀省風俗，已，呼亭長問：「新令為誰？從何官來？何時到也？」曰：「縣已遣吏迎，垂有起居。」曰：「正我是也。」亭長怖，遽拜謁，竟，便具吏。其日入舍，乃謁府，數十日無故便去。為郡功曹所選，頗有不用，因稱狂，亂首走出府門。太守以其宿有重名，忍而不罪。後為大將軍梁冀從事中郎將，冬月坐庭中，向日解衣裘捕虱，已，因傾臥，厥形悉表露。將軍夫人襄城君云：「不潔清，當亟推問。」將軍嘆曰：「是趙從事，絕高士也。」他事若此非一也。 |
| | Jiangxia Taishou Hedong Zhao Zhongrang, ju Sili Maochai, wei Gaotang ling, mi cheng yu che, jing zhi Gaotang, bianming ming xing, zhi Duting zhong shi yu ri. He entered the city quietly, observed and examined local customs. Afterward, he called for the Duting chief and asked, "Who is the new county magistrate?" From which office has he come? "When did he arrive?" He said, "The county has already sent officials to welcome him; preparations for his arrival are nearly complete." Said [the person], "I am exactly that one." The Duting chief was frightened, hurriedly paid homage and made a visit. Eventually, he prepared the officials accordingly. On that day, upon entering his residence, he went to pay respects at the office and then left after several days without any incident. He was selected by the jùn gōngcáo (local administrative official), but quite a few were not used, so he claimed to be mad and ran out of the government office with disheveled hair. The Taishou considered that he had long been renowned, and thus tolerated him without punishing him. Later, he became a Zhonglangjiang (attending officer) under the Grand General Liang Ji. In winter, while sitting in the courtyard, he removed his clothes and fur coat toward the sun to catch lice; afterward, he leaned over and lay down, exposing his entire body. General's wife Xiangcheng Jun said, "He is not clean or decent; we should immediately investigate him." The general sighed and said, "This is Zhao Congshi, an extraordinary man of high virtue." There were many other incidents like this.
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| | 江夏太守... : |
謹按：《詩》云：「不愆不忘，率由舊章。」《左氏傳》曰：「舊章不可無也。」凡張官置吏，為之律度，故能攝固其位，天下無覬覦也。今仲讓不先謁府，乃徑到縣，俱諜吏民，爾乃入舍。《論語》：「升車，必正立，執綏。不內顧。」不掩不備，不見人短見。《禮記》：「戶有二屨，不入。」「將上堂，聲必揚。」家且猶若此，況於長吏乎？君子之仕，行其道也。民未見德，唯詐是聞。遠薦功曹，策名委質，就有不合，當徐告退，古既待放，須起乃逝，何得亂道，進退自由，傲很天常，若無君父？《洪範》陳五事，以貌為首，《孝經》列三法，以服為先，仲讓居有田業，加之祿賜，勢可免凍餒之厄，未必須冬日之煖也。利不體皆此也。河內、殷之舊都，國分為三，康叔之風既激，而紂之化由存，其俗士大夫本矜好大言，而少實行。 |
| | Careful examination: The "Shijing" says, "Do not commit errors or forget; always follow the old regulations." The Zuo Zhuan says, "Old regulations cannot be dispensed with." Whenever officials are appointed and positions established, laws and standards must be set; thus, they can firmly hold their posts, and the world will have no desire to covet them. Now Zhongrang did not first visit the office, but went directly to the county and secretly inquired about officials and commoners before entering his residence. The Lunyu says: "When getting into a carriage, one must stand upright and hold the 绥." "Do not look back." Do not conceal or prepare for nothing, and do not expose others' shortcomings. The "Liji" says: "If there are two pairs of shoes at the door, one should not enter." "When about to ascend the hall, one's voice must be raised." Even within a family it should be like this; how much more so for senior officials? A gentleman who holds office does so to practice the Way. The people have not seen virtue, but only heard of deceit. When a distant recommendation is made by the gongcao (a local official responsible for selecting talent), and one's name is submitted with commitment, if there are any disagreements, one should gradually resign. In ancient times, when officials were dismissed, they had to wait until their term ended before leaving; how could one disrupt the Way, act freely in advancing or retreating, be arrogant and defiant of natural order, as though having no ruler or father? The Hongfan lists five matters, with appearance as the first; the Xiaojing ranks three methods, with attire as the foremost. Zhongrang has land and property to support his residence, in addition to salary and gifts, so he is certainly capable of avoiding the hardship of cold and hunger; it is not necessary for him to seek warmth on winter days. This is how benefits should be embodied in conduct. He Dong was the old capital of Yin. The state was divided into three parts; although the spirit of Kangshu had stirred, the influence of Zhou still remained. In this region, scholars and officials were originally proud of making grand statements but lacked practical actions.
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