| | 張湯傳: |
張湯，杜陵人也。父為長安丞，出，湯為兒守舍。還，鼠盜肉，父怒，笞湯。湯掘熏得鼠及餘肉，劾鼠掠治，傳爰書，訊鞫論報，并取鼠與肉，具獄磔堂下。父見之，視文辭如老獄吏，大驚，遂使書獄。 |
| | Zhang Tang was a native of Dulung. His father served as the magistrate of Chang'an and once went out, so Zhang Tang, while still a child, guarded their home. When he returned, rats had stolen some meat, and his father was angry and beat Zhang Tang with a stick. Zhang Tang dug up the evidence and found the rats along with the remaining meat. He indicted the rats, interrogated them as if they were criminals, compiled a report according to legal procedures, submitted his findings for review, and even displayed the rats and the meat in court, presenting the case fully before sentencing them to be executed by crucifixion beneath the hall. His father saw this and was astonished at how well written the documents were, as if composed by an experienced legal official; he was greatly impressed and thus began to have him handle court records.
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| | 張湯傳: |
父死後，湯為長安吏。周陽侯為諸卿時，嘗繫長安，湯傾身事之。及出為侯，大與湯交，遍見貴人。湯給事內史，為甯成掾，以湯為無害，言大府，調茂陵尉，治方中。 |
| | After his father's death, Zhang Tang became a clerk in Chang'an. When Zhouyang Hou was serving as one of the high-ranking officials, he had once been detained in Chang'an, and Zhang Tang devoted himself to serving him. When Zhouyang Hou was later released from detention and became a marquis, he formed a close friendship with Zhang Tang and introduced him to many influential figures of high rank. Zhang Tang served as an official in the Neishi Office and was a clerk under Ning Cheng, who considered Zhang harmless and recommended him to the higher authorities. As a result, he was transferred to serve as a wai (a local administrative officer) of Maoling, where he governed the Fangzhong district.
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| | 張湯傳: |
武安侯為丞相，徵湯為史，薦補侍御史。治陳皇后巫蠱獄，深竟黨與，上以為能，遷太中大夫。與趙禹共定諸律令，務在深文，拘守職之吏。已而禹至少府，湯為廷尉，兩人交驩，兄事禹。禹志在奉公孤立，而湯舞知以御人。始為小吏，乾沒，與長安富賈田甲、魚翁叔之屬交私。及列九卿，收接天下名士大夫，己心內雖不合，然陽浮道與之。 |
| | When Wu'an Hou became Chancellor, he summoned Zhang Tang to serve as an official and recommended him for appointment as a Shiyushi (an imperial censor). Zhang handled the case of Empress Chen's involvement in witchcraft and sorcery, thoroughly investigating her accomplices. The emperor regarded him as capable and promoted him to Taizhong Dafu (Grand Censor). Zhang collaborated with Zhao Yu in establishing various legal codes, focusing on strict interpretations of the law and enforcing rigid adherence to official duties. Later, when Zhao Yu was appointed as Shaofu (Minister of Works) and Zhang Tang became Tingwei (Imperial Judge), the two maintained a warm relationship, with Zhang treating Zhao like an elder brother. Zhao Yu was determined to serve the public interest and remain independent, while Zhang Tang skillfully manipulated people through his cunning intelligence. When he first became a minor official, he embezzled funds and formed private relationships with wealthy merchants in Chang'an such as Tian Jia and Yu Wongshe. When he rose to the rank of one of the Nine Ministers, he sought out and befriended renowned scholars and officials from all over the country. Although in his heart he might not have agreed with them, he outwardly maintained a cordial and respectful demeanor toward them.
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| | 張湯傳: |
是時，上方鄉文學，湯決大獄，欲傅古義，乃請博士弟子治尚書、春秋，補廷尉史，平亭疑法。奏讞疑，必奏先為上分別其原，上所是，受而著讞法廷尉挈令，揚主之明。奏事即譴，湯摧謝，鄉上意所便，必引正監掾史賢者，曰：「固為臣議，如此上責臣，臣弗用，愚抵此。」罪常釋。間即奏事，上善之，曰：「臣非知為此奏，乃監、掾、史某所為。」其欲薦吏，揚人之善解人之過如此。所治即上意所欲罪，予監吏深刻者；即上意所欲釋，予監吏輕平者。所治即豪，必舞文巧詆；即下戶羸弱，時口言「雖文致法，上裁察。」於是往往釋湯所言。湯至於大吏，內行修，交通賓客飲食，於故人子弟為吏及貧昆弟，調護之尤厚。其造請諸公，不避寒暑。是以湯雖文深意忌不專平，然得此聲譽。而深刻吏多為爪牙用者，依於文學之士。丞相弘數稱其美。 |
| | At that time, the emperor was favoring literary and scholarly pursuits. When Zhang Tang presided over major trials, he wished to apply ancient principles, so he requested that students of the Doctorate who studied the Book of Documents and the Spring and Autumn Annals be appointed as clerks in the Tingwei Office to help interpret ambiguous legal cases. When submitting verdicts on doubtful cases, he always first presented the emperor with a detailed analysis of their origins. If the emperor approved, Zhang would then record these decisions as legal precedents for the Tingwei Office and publicize them to highlight the ruler's wisdom. When submitting reports and being reprimanded, Zhang Tang would humbly apologize, aligning his actions with what the emperor desired. He was sure to cite upright officials from among the Tingwei clerks and magistrates who were known for their virtue, saying: "These matters were originally discussed by my subordinates; if Your Majesty holds me responsible, I did not follow their advice, which makes me a foolish official deserving of this censure." He was often pardoned. At times, when he submitted reports and the emperor praised them, Zhang would say: "I did not personally know how to prepare this report; it was done by a certain official from among my subordinates." In this way, he would recommend officials, highlighting others' virtues while taking the blame for their mistakes. When handling cases that aligned with the emperor's desire to punish someone, Zhang assigned them to strict and severe clerks; when the emperor wished to pardon someone, he assigned such cases to lenient and fair clerks. When dealing with powerful and influential individuals, he would twist legal provisions skillfully to bring about their condemnation; when handling cases involving poor or weak commoners, he occasionally remarked aloud: "Even if the law is applied in writing, it will ultimately be up to the emperor's judgment." Thus, the emperor often followed Zhang Tang's suggestion and pardoned them. Zhang Tang, having risen to a high official position, maintained strict self-discipline internally. He hosted guests and entertained them with food and drink, showing particular kindness in supporting the careers of his old friends' sons who served as officials or poor relatives by helping and protecting them. Whenever he visited prominent officials to pay respects or make requests, he did so without regard for the cold of winter or the heat of summer. Thus, although Zhang Tang was known for his strict legal interpretations and a mind full of suspicions that did not always pursue impartial justice, he still gained this reputation. And many of the harsh and severe officials who served as enforcers relied on scholars well-versed in literary and Confucian studies. Chancellor Gong Hong often praised his virtues.
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及治淮南、衡山、江都反獄，皆窮根本。嚴助、伍被，上欲釋之，湯爭曰：「伍被本造反謀，而助親幸出入禁闥腹心之臣，乃交私諸侯，如此弗誅，後不可治。」上可論之。其治獄所巧排大臣自以為功，多此類。繇是益尊任，遷御史大夫。 |
| | When handling the cases of rebellion involving the kingdoms of Huainan, Hengshan, and Jiangdu, he thoroughly investigated their root causes. Yan Zhu and Wu Bei were to be pardoned by the emperor, but Zhang Tang argued: "Wu Bei was originally the one who devised the plot of rebellion, while Yan Zhu is a close and favored minister with access to the imperial palace. Yet both have secretly consorted with feudal lords. If they are not executed now, it will be impossible to govern in the future." The emperor approved their punishment. In handling legal cases, he often skillfully maneuvered to undermine high-ranking ministers and took credit for it; there were many instances like this. Because of this, he became even more respected and trusted by the emperor and was promoted to Yushi Daifu (Grand Censor-in-Chief).
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會渾邪等降漢，大興兵伐匈奴，山東水旱，貧民流徙，皆卬給縣官，縣官空虛。湯承上指，請造白金及五銖錢，籠天下鹽鐵，排富商大賈，出告緡令，鉏豪彊并兼之家，舞文巧詆以輔法。湯每朝奏事，語國家用，日旰，天子忘食。丞相取充位，天下事皆決湯。百姓不安其生，騷動，縣官所興未獲其利，姦吏並侵漁，於是痛繩以罪。自公卿以下至於庶人咸指湯。湯嘗病，上自至舍視，其隆貴如此。 |
| | At that time, Hunye and others surrendered to the Han dynasty, prompting a large-scale military campaign against the Xiongnu. Meanwhile, floods and droughts struck Shandong, causing poor people to become displaced; all these refugees relied on government support, which left the imperial treasury depleted. Zhang Tang followed the emperor's instructions and proposed the minting of white metal coins and wuzhu coins, sought to monopolize salt and iron production nationwide, targeted wealthy merchants and big traders, issued a decree for reporting currency fraud, suppressed powerful families who had accumulated wealth through land consolidation or monopolies, and manipulated legal provisions with skillful accusations to support his policies. Whenever Zhang Tang presented reports in court regarding the state's finances, he spoke for so long that it was often past midday before the emperor could eat. The chancellor merely held office in name; all major affairs of the state were decided by Zhang Tang. The common people became unsettled in their livelihoods, causing unrest. The government's new initiatives had not yet brought benefits to the people, and corrupt officials took advantage by exploiting them; thus, he severely punished those guilty of such crimes. From high-ranking ministers down to commoners, all pointed fingers at Zhang Tang. Once when Zhang Tang was ill, the emperor personally visited his residence to check on him; such was his esteemed status and favor.
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匈奴求和親，群臣議前，博士狄山曰：「和親便。」上問其便，山曰：「兵，凶器，未易數動。高帝欲伐匈奴，大困平城，乃遂結和親。孝惠、高后時，天下安樂，及文帝欲事匈奴，北邊蕭然苦兵。孝景時，吳楚七國反，景帝往來東宮間，天下寒心數月。吳楚已破，竟景帝不言兵，天下富實。今自陛下興兵擊匈奴，中國以空虛，邊大困貧。由是觀之，不如和親。」上問湯，湯曰：「此愚儒無知。」狄山曰：「臣固愚忠，若御史大夫湯，乃詐忠。湯之治淮南、江都，以深文痛詆諸侯，別疏骨肉，使藩臣不自安，臣固知湯之為詐忠。」於是上作色曰：「吾使生居一郡，能無使虜入盜乎？」山曰：「不能。」曰：「居一縣？」曰：「不能。」復曰：「居一鄣間？」山自度辯窮且下吏，曰：「能。」乃遣山乘鄣。至月餘，匈奴斬山頭而去。是後群臣震讋。 |
| | When the Xiongnu requested a peace marriage, the ministers debated beforehand. The Doctor Di Shan said: "A peace marriage would be beneficial." The emperor asked him to explain why this was so, and Di Shan replied: "Military force is a weapon of violence; it should not be used frequently." "Emperor Gaozu once wished to attack the Xiongnu, but suffered great hardship at Pingcheng and thus ultimately concluded a peace marriage." "During the reigns of Emperor Hui and Empress Dowager Gao, the empire enjoyed peace and prosperity. However, when Emperor Wen wished to take action against the Xiongnu, the northern frontier became desolate and its people suffered from warfare." "During Emperor Jing's reign, the Seven States of Wu and Chu rebelled. As Emperor Jing moved between the eastern palace and other locations, the entire realm lived in fear for several months." "After the defeat of Wu and Chu, Emperor Jing never again spoke of military campaigns, and the empire became wealthy and prosperous." lington Now that Your Majesty has launched a campaign against the Xiongnu, China's treasury has become depleted, and its frontier regions are in great distress and poverty. From this we can see, it would be better to pursue a peace marriage." The emperor then asked Zhang Tang, who replied: "This is merely the ignorant opinion of an unenlightened scholar." Di Shan said: "I am indeed a foolish loyalist, but as for the Yushi Daifu Zhang Tang, he is nothing more than a hypocritical sycophant. "When Zhang Tang handled the cases of Huainan and Jiangdu, he used strict legal interpretations to harshly condemn feudal lords, creating divisions among family members and making vassal ministers feel insecure. I have long known that Zhang is a deceitful loyalist." At this, the emperor turned angry and said: "If I were to appoint you as governor of a single commandery, could you prevent the Xiongnu from raiding it?" Di Shan replied: "No, I could not." The emperor asked: "Then how about being in charge of a single xian (district)?" He replied: "No, I still could not." The emperor continued: "Then how about being responsible for a single frontier post?" Di Shan, realizing that he was running out of arguments and would soon be handed over to the authorities, replied: "Yes, I can." The emperor then sent Di Shan to serve at a frontier post. After more than a month, the Xiongnu beheaded him and left. From then on, all ministers were deeply frightened.
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| | 張湯傳: |
湯客田甲雖賈人，有賢操，始湯為小吏，與錢通，及為大吏，而甲所以責湯行義，有烈士之風。 |
| | Zhang Tang's associate Tian Jia, although a merchant by trade, was known for his virtuous conduct. When Zhang first became a minor official, they had dealings involving money; but when Zhang rose to high office, Tian Jia held him accountable and urged him to act with integrity, displaying the spirit of a loyal and upright man.
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湯為御史大夫七歲，敗。 |
| | Zhang Tang served as Yushi Daifu for seven years before his downfall.
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河東人李文，故嘗與湯有隙，已而為御史中丞，薦數從中文事有可以傷湯者，不能為地。湯有所愛史魯謁居，知湯弗平，使人上飛變告文姦事。事下湯，湯治論殺文，而湯心知謁居為之。上問：「變事從跡安起？」湯陽驚曰：「此殆文故人怨之。」謁居病臥閭里主人，湯自往視病，為謁居摩足。趙國以冶鑄為業，王數訟鐵官事，湯常排趙王。趙王求湯陰事。謁居嘗案趙王，趙王怨之，并上書告：「湯大臣也，史謁居有病，湯至為摩足，疑與為大姦。」事下廷尉。謁居病死，事連其弟，弟繫導官。湯亦治它囚導官，見謁居弟，欲陰為之，而陽不省。謁居弟不知而怨湯，使人上書，告湯與謁居謀，兵變李文。事下減宣。宣嘗與湯有隙，及得此事，窮竟其事，未奏也。會人有盜發孝文園瘞錢，丞相青翟朝，與湯約俱謝，至前，湯念獨丞相以四時行園，當謝，湯無與也，不謝。丞相謝，上使御史案其事。湯欲致其文丞相見知，丞相患之。三長史皆害湯，欲陷之。 |
| | Li Wen, a native of Hedong, had previously been at odds with Zhang Tang. Later, when Li became Zhongcheng (Deputy Grand Censor), he repeatedly searched for legal matters within the court that could be used to harm Zhang but found nothing incriminating. Zhang Tang had a favored clerk named Lu Yiju, who knew that Zhang was not acting fairly. He sent someone to report false accusations against Li Wen for corrupt activities. The case was referred to Zhang Tang, who investigated and sentenced Li Wen to death, although he knew in his heart that Lu Yiju had instigated the false accusations. The emperor asked: "From where did this report of misconduct originate?" Zhang Tang feigned surprise and said: "This is probably due to some old grudge held by Li Wen's former associates." Lu Yiju was lying ill at the home of a host in his neighborhood, and Zhang Tang personally visited him to check on his condition, even massaging his feet. The Kingdom of Zhao was known for its iron smelting and casting industries; the king frequently petitioned about matters concerning the state's iron officials, and Zhang Tang often opposed King Zhao. King Zhao sought out any hidden misconduct on Zhang Tang's part. Lu Yiju had once investigated King Zhao, and the king bore a grudge against him. Together with this resentment, he submitted a report to the emperor stating: "Zhang Tang is a high-ranking minister; his clerk Lu Yiju was ill, yet Zhang personally went to massage his feet—this suggests they are engaged in some serious misconduct." The matter was referred to the Tingwei Office. Lu Yiju fell ill and died, and the case became entangled with his younger brother, who was detained in a government office. Zhang Tang also had other prisoners under investigation at the same government office, and when he saw Lu Yiju's younger brother, he secretly wished to help him but outwardly pretended not to recognize him. Lu Yiju's younger brother was unaware of this and thus resented Zhang Tang, so he sent someone to submit a report accusing Zhang of conspiring with Lu Yiju in the case that led to Li Wen's execution. The matter was then referred to Jian Xuan for investigation. Jian Xuan had previously been at odds with Zhang Tong, and upon receiving this case, he thoroughly investigated the matter but had not yet submitted his report. At this time, someone had stolen buried money from the mausoleum of Emperor Wen. Chancellor Qingzhi and Zhang Tang had previously agreed to jointly apologize for the incident. When they appeared before the emperor, however, Zhang thought that only the chancellor, who was responsible for seasonal rituals at the tomb, should offer an apology, while he himself bore no responsibility and thus did not apologize. The chancellor offered his apology, and the emperor ordered the Yushi (Censorate) to investigate the matter. Zhang Tang wished to involve the chancellor in a charge of having known about the crime, which troubled the chancellor greatly. The three senior secretaries of the chancellor's office all resented Zhang Tang and wished to see him fall into disgrace.
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始，長史朱買臣素怨湯，語在其傳。王朝，齊人，以術至右內史。邊通學短長，剛暴人也，官至濟南相。故皆居湯右，已而失官，守長史，詘體於湯。湯數行丞相事，知此三長史素貴，常陵折之，故三長史合謀曰：「始湯約與君謝，已而賣君；今欲劾君以宗廟事，此欲代君耳。吾知湯陰事。」使吏捕案湯左田信等，曰湯且欲為請奏，信輒先知之，居物致富，與湯分之。及它姦事。事辭頗聞。上問湯曰：「吾所為，賈人輒知，益居其物，是類有以吾謀告之者。」湯不謝，又陽驚曰：「 |
| | Originally, the chief secretary Zhu Maichen had long harbored resentment toward Zhang Tang; this is recorded in his biography. Wang Chao was a native of Qi who rose to become You Neishi (Right Minister of Works) through his skills and strategies. Bian Tong studied the art of persuasion, was a harsh and violent man by nature, and held office as prime minister of Jinan. Therefore, they all ranked above Zhang Tang in official status; but later, when they lost their posts and became mere secretaries, they had to submit themselves humbly to him. Zhang Tang often acted on behalf of the chancellor and, knowing that these three senior secretaries had previously held high status, frequently treated them with arrogance. Thus, the three senior secretaries conspired together: "Initially, Zhang Tang agreed to apologize along with you, but later he betrayed you; now he wants to accuse you of matters concerning the ancestral temple—this is merely his attempt to replace you." "We know about Zhang Tang's hidden misconduct." They ordered officials to arrest and investigate Zhang Tang's subordinate Tian Xin, claiming that whenever Zhang intended to submit a request on behalf of someone, Xin always learned about it in advance. He had accumulated wealth by taking advantage of such opportunities and shared the spoils with Zhang Tang. And other corrupt activities as well. The details of the case gradually became known. The emperor asked Zhang Tang: "Whenever I take action, merchants always seem to know about it in advance and profit from the situation. There must be someone who is leaking my plans to them." Zhang Tang did not apologize but feigned surprise instead, saying: "
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固宜有。」減宣亦奏謁居事。上以湯懷詐面欺，使使八輩簿責湯。湯具自道無此，不服。於是上使趙禹責湯。禹至，讓湯曰：「君何不知分也！君所治，夷滅者幾何人矣！今人言君皆有狀，天子重致君獄，欲令君自為計，何多以對為？」湯乃為書謝曰：「湯無尺寸之功，起刀筆吏，陛下幸致位三公，無以塞責。然謀陷湯者，三長史也。」遂自殺。 |
| | Of course there should be." Jian Xuan also submitted his report on the Lu Yiju affair. The emperor, believing that Zhang Tang had been deceitful and had lied to his face, sent eight successive envoys to interrogate him in detail. Zhang Tang fully explained himself, denying any wrongdoing and refusing to admit guilt. At this point, the emperor sent Zhao Yu to hold Zhang Tang accountable. Zhao Yu arrived and rebuked Zhang Tang, saying: "How could you not know your proper place!" How many people have been exterminated under the cases you handled! Now, there are accusations against you with detailed evidence. The Son of Heaven has sent you to prison in order for you to consider your own situation carefully. Why do you persist in defending yourself so much?" Zhang Tang then wrote a letter to apologize, saying: "I have no achievements of even the smallest scale; I rose from being a clerk handling documents and brushes. It was out of Your Majesty's grace that I attained the position of one of the Three Dukes, yet I am unable to fulfill my responsibilities adequately. Yet those who plotted against me and led to my downfall are the three senior officials." He then committed suicide.
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湯死，家產直不過五百金，皆所得奉賜，無它贏。昆弟諸子欲厚葬湯，湯母曰：「湯為天子大臣，被惡言而死，何厚葬為！」載以牛車，有棺而無槨。上聞之，曰：「非此母不生此子。」乃盡按誅三長史。丞相青翟自殺。出田信。上惜湯，復稍進其子安世。 |
| | After Zhang Tang's death, the value of his family's assets was no more than 500 jin (a unit of weight), all of which were obtained through official salaries and imperial gifts; there was no additional surplus. Zhang Tang's brothers and sons wanted to give him an elaborate funeral, but his mother said: "Master Zhang was a high minister of the Son of Heaven, yet he died under false accusations. Why would we have such an extravagant burial for him!" They placed his body in a cart drawn by oxen and provided only a coffin without a casket. The emperor heard about this and said: "Without such a mother, there would not have been such a son." He then ordered the full investigation and execution of the three senior officials. The Chancellor Qingzhi committed suicide. Release Tian Xin. The emperor regretted Zhang Tang's fate and gradually promoted his son, Zhang Anshi.
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安世字子孺，少以父任為郎。用善書給事尚書，精力於職，休沐未嘗出。上行幸河東，嘗亡書三篋，詔問莫能知，唯安世識之，具作其事。後購求得書，以相校無所遺失。上奇其材，擢為尚書令，遷光祿大夫。 |
| | Zhang Anshi, courtesy name Ziru, was young when he became an imperial attendant by virtue of his father's position. He served as a clerk in the Office of the Secretariat due to his skill in writing, and was so dedicated to his duties that he never left his post even during days off. When the emperor once traveled to Hedong, three boxes of documents were lost. The emperor issued an edict inquiring about them, but no one could identify their contents except Anshi, who was able to fully recount what they contained. Later, when the documents were recovered and compared with his account, nothing was found missing. The emperor marveled at his talent, promoted him to Minister of the Secretariat, and later elevated him to Grand Secretary of Merit.
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昭帝即位，大將軍霍光秉政，以安世篤行，光親重之。會左將軍上官桀父子及御史大夫桑弘羊皆與燕王、蓋主謀反誅，光以朝無舊臣，白用安世為右將軍光祿勳，以自副焉。久之，天子下詔曰：「右將軍光祿勳安世輔政宿衛，肅敬不怠，十有三年，咸以康寧。夫親親任賢，唐虞之道也，其封安世為富平侯。」 |
| | When Emperor Zhao ascended the throne, the Grand General Huo Guang held power and valued Anshi for his steadfast conduct. He personally respected and trusted him. At the time, when General Shangguan Jie and his son, along with the Minister of Justice Sang Hongyang, were all executed for conspiring against the state together with Prince Yan and Lady Gai, Huo Guang, seeing that there were no experienced ministers left in court, recommended Anshi to be appointed as Right General and Keeper of the Imperial Household, placing him by his side. After some time, the emperor issued an edict saying: "Right General and Keeper of the Imperial Household Anshi has assisted in governance and served as a guardian for thirteen years with constant diligence and reverence, bringing peace and stability to all." "Valuing relatives and appointing the virtuous is the way of Tang and Yu. Therefore, Anshi shall be enfeoffed as Marquis of Fuping."
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明年，昭帝崩，未葬，大將軍光白太后，徙安世為車騎將軍，與共徵立昌邑王。王行淫亂，光復與安世謀廢王，尊立宣帝。帝初即位，褒賞大臣，詔曰：「夫褒有德，賞有功，古今之通義也。車騎將軍光祿勳富平侯安世，宿衛忠正，宣德明恩，勤勞國家，守職秉義，以安宗廟，其益封萬六百戶，功次大將軍光。」安世子千秋、延壽、彭祖，皆中郎將侍中。 |
| | The following year, Emperor Zhao died and had not yet been buried. Grand General Guang informed the Empress Dowager and transferred Anshi to the position of Chaji General, joining him in summoning Prince Changyi for enthronement. Prince Changyi behaved licentiously and immorally; Guang then conspired with Anshi to depose him, and instead placed Emperor Xuan on the throne. When the emperor first ascended the throne, he honored and rewarded his ministers, issuing an edict that said: "Rewarding virtue and merit is a universal principle of both ancient and modern times. Chaji General and Keeper of the Imperial Household Marquis Fuping Anshi has been loyal, upright, and devoted to guarding the court. He has promoted virtue, clarified imperial grace, labored for the state, upheld his duties with righteousness, and ensured stability in the ancestral temple. Therefore, he shall be granted an additional fief of 16,000 households; his merit ranks second only to that of Grand General Guang." Anshi's sons Qianqiu, Yanshou, and Pengzu all served as Attendants-in-Ordinary and Secretaries of the Inner Court.
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| | 張湯傳: |
大將軍光薨後數月，御史大夫魏相上封事曰：「聖王褒有德以懷萬方，顯有功以勸百寮，是以朝廷尊榮，天下鄉風。國家承祖宗之業，制諸侯之重，新失大將軍，宜宣章盛德以示天下，顯明功臣以填藩國。毋空大位，以塞爭權，所以安社稷絕未萌也。車騎將軍安世事孝武皇帝三十餘年，忠信謹厚，勤勞政事，夙夜不怠，與大將軍定策，天下受其福，國家重臣也，宜尊其位，以為大將軍，毋令領光祿勳事，使專精神，憂念天下，思惟得失。安世子延壽重厚，可以為光祿勳，領宿衛臣。」上亦欲用之。安世聞指，懼不敢當，請間求見，免冠頓首曰：「老臣耳妄聞，言之為先事，不言情不達，誠自量不足以居大位，繼大將軍後。唯天子財哀，以全老臣之命。」上笑曰：「君言泰謙。君而不可，尚誰可者！」安世深辭弗能得。後數日，竟拜為大司馬車騎將軍，領尚書事。數月，罷車騎將軍屯兵，更為衛將軍，兩宮衛尉，城門、北軍兵屬焉。 |
| | Several months after Grand General Guang's death, Minister of Justice Wei Xiang submitted a sealed memorial stating: "Sage kings honor virtue to win the hearts of all under heaven and recognize merit to encourage officials. This is why the court remains respected and honored, and the people throughout the land emulate its example." "Now that our state inherits the legacy of its ancestors and holds great authority over the feudal lords, having recently lost Grand General Guang, it is appropriate to publicly honor his noble virtues as an example for all under heaven, and clearly recognize meritorious officials to strengthen the vassal states." We must not leave such a high position vacant, for this would invite contention over power. This is how we ensure the stability of the state and prevent unrest before it even begins." Chaji General Anshi served Emperor Wu for more than thirty years with loyalty, trustworthiness, and diligence. He worked tirelessly in governance without ever slacking day or night. Together with Grand General Guang, he determined the crucial strategy that brought blessings to all under heaven. As a pillar of the state, it is fitting to elevate his position by appointing him as Grand General. He should no longer be burdened with duties at the Office of Merit and Grace so that he may focus his full attention on the affairs of the realm, reflecting deeply on its gains and losses." "Anshi's son Yanshou is dignified and steady; he is suitable to serve as Keeper of the Imperial Household and oversee the palace guards." The emperor also wished to appoint him. Anshi, upon hearing the suggestion, was frightened and felt unworthy. He requested a private audience to present himself before the emperor, removed his hat, and kowtowed, saying: "This old minister heard of this by mistake. To speak about it would be to anticipate matters beforehand; not speaking would mean my feelings remain unheard. I truly believe that I am insufficient in ability to hold such an important position or succeed Grand General Guang." "Only the Son of Heaven's mercy can preserve the life of this old minister." The emperor smiled and said, "Your words are too modest. If you yourself feel unworthy, who else could possibly be suitable!" Anshi repeatedly declined but was unable to obtain permission. Several days later, he was finally appointed as Grand Marshal and Chaji General, in charge of the Secretariat's affairs. After several months, he was relieved of his command over the Chaji General's troops and instead appointed as Wei General. He oversaw the two palace guards, the city gate commanders, and the Northern Army forces.
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| | 張湯傳: |
時霍光子禹為右將軍，上亦以禹為大司馬，罷其右將軍屯兵，以虛尊加之，而實奪其眾。後歲餘，禹謀反，夷宗族，安世素小心畏忌，已內憂矣。其女孫敬為霍氏外屬婦，當相坐，安世瘦懼，形於顏色。上怪而憐之，以問左右，乃赦敬，以慰其意。安世浸恐。職典樞機，以謹慎周密自著，外內無間。每定大政，已決，輒移病出，聞有詔令，乃驚，使吏之丞相府問焉。自朝廷大臣莫知其與議也。 |
| | At that time, Huo Guang's son Yu was serving as Right General. The emperor also appointed Yu as Grand Marshal, but relieved him of his command over the Right General's troops, bestowing only a nominal title while actually depriving him of real authority and forces. More than a year later, Yu plotted rebellion and was executed along with his entire clan. Anshi had always been cautious and fearful of misfortune; this event caused him great inner anxiety. His granddaughter Sun Jing was married into the Huo family and thus considered an external relative of the conspirators, making her liable for collective punishment. Anshi became emaciated with fear, showing his anxiety in his appearance. The emperor noticed and felt pity for him, asking about the matter to those around him before pardoning Sun Jing to comfort Anshi. Anshi became increasingly fearful. In his official duties, overseeing crucial matters of state, he distinguished himself through carefulness and meticulous attention to detail, maintaining harmony both within the court and without. Whenever major policies were decided, once a decision was made, he would feign illness and leave. Upon hearing an imperial decree, he would be surprised and send officials to the Chancellor's office to inquire about it. None of the ministers in court knew that he had participated in deliberations on these matters.
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| | 張湯傳: |
嘗有所薦，其人來謝，安世大恨，以為舉賢達能，豈有私謝邪？絕勿復為通。有郎功高不調，自言，安世應曰：「君之功高，明主所知。人臣執事，何長短而自言乎！」絕不許。已而郎果遷。莫府長史遷，辭去之官，安世問以過失。長史曰：「將軍為明主股肱，而士無所進，論者以為譏。」安世曰：「明主在上，賢不肖較然，臣下自修而已，何知士而薦之？」其欲匿名跡遠權勢如此。 |
| | Once, when someone he recommended came to thank him personally, Anshi was greatly displeased. He believed that recommending virtuous and capable individuals should not involve personal gratitude! He cut off all further contact with the person and refused to have any more dealings with him. There was an imperial attendant whose meritorious service had not been recognized, and he spoke up about it himself. Anshi responded: "Your achievements are high; they are known to the enlightened sovereign. As a subject of the emperor performing his duties, why should you boast about your own merits!" He absolutely refused to grant it. Later on, the imperial attendant was indeed promoted. When a senior official of his office was transferred and left for his new post, Anshi asked him about any mistakes or faults he might have committed. The senior official replied: "General, as a trusted minister of the enlightened sovereign, has not promoted any officials. Observers have criticized this." Anshi said: "The enlightened sovereign is above, and the virtuous or unworthy are clearly discernible. All that subjects need do is cultivate themselves. Why should I personally know officials to recommend them?" He desired so much to remain anonymous, avoiding the limelight and power in this way.
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| | 張湯傳: |
為光祿勳，郎有醉小便殿上，主事白行法，安世曰：「何以知其不反水漿邪？如何以小過成罪！」郎淫官婢，婢兄自言，安世曰：「奴以恚怒，誣汙衣冠。」自署適奴。其隱人過失，皆此類也。 |
| | While serving as Keeper of the Imperial Household, an imperial attendant once became drunk and urinated in the palace. The official in charge reported it for disciplinary action, but Anshi said: "How can we know that he did not merely spill water by accident? Why punish him for such a minor offense!" An imperial attendant had an affair with the servant girl of an official. The girl's brother reported it himself, but Anshi said: "The servant is merely angry and has falsely accused a gentleman." He ordered that the servant be registered as married off to another household. His habit of concealing others' faults was always like this.
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安世自見父子尊顯，懷不自安，為子延壽求出補吏，上以為北地太守。歲餘，上閔安世年老，復徵延壽為左曹太僕。 |
| | Anshi, seeing that his father and son had both attained high positions of honor, felt uneasy about it. He therefore requested to have his son Yanshou transferred out for a local official post, and the emperor appointed him as governor of Beidi. After more than a year, moved by Anshi's old age, the emperor recalled Yanshou and appointed him as Left Councillor of the Ministry of War.
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| | 張湯傳: |
初，安世兄賀幸於衛太子，太子敗，賓客皆誅，安世為賀上書，得下蠶室。後為掖庭令，而宣帝以皇曾孫收養掖庭。賀內傷太子無辜，而曾孫孤幼，所以視養拊循，恩甚密焉。及曾孫壯大，賀教書，令受詩，為取許妃，以家財聘之。曾孫數有徵怪，語在宣紀。賀聞知，為安世道之，稱其材美。安世輒絕止，以為少主在上，不宜稱述曾孫。及宣帝即位，而賀已死。上謂安世曰：「掖廷令平生稱我，將軍止之，是也。」上追思賀恩，欲封其冢為恩德侯，置守冢二百家。賀有一子蚤死，無子，子安世小男彭祖。彭祖又小與上同席研書，指欲封之，先賜爵關內侯。故安世深辭賀封，又求損守冢戶數，稍減至三十戶。上曰：「吾自為掖廷令，非為將軍也。」安世乃止，不敢復言。遂下詔曰：「其為故掖廷令張賀置守冢三十家。」上自處置其里，居冢西鬥雞翁舍南，上少時所嘗游處也。明年，復下詔曰：「朕微眇時，故掖廷令張賀輔道朕躬，修文學經術，恩惠卓異，厥功茂焉。《》云：『』其封賀弟子侍中關內侯彭祖為陽都侯，賜賀諡曰陽都哀侯。」時賀有孤孫霸，年七歲，拜為散騎中郎將，賜爵關內侯，食邑三百戶。安世以父子封侯，在位大盛，乃辭祿。詔都內別臧張氏無名錢以百萬數。 |
| | Initially, Anshi's elder brother He had been favored by Crown Prince Wei. When the prince fell from grace and was defeated, all his retainers were executed. Anshi petitioned on behalf of his brother and managed to have him spared a death sentence, instead receiving castration as punishment. Later, He became the Director of the Yeting Office, and Emperor Xuan was raised in the Yeting as an imperial great-grandson. He inwardly grieved over the Crown Prince's unjust fate and felt compassion for the young great-grandson, so he took care of him with great affection and tenderness. His kindness was especially deep. When the great-grandson grew up, He taught him to read and had him study poetry; he also arranged for a wife from the Xu family, using his own wealth to pay the dowry. The great-grandson often experienced strange omens and signs, as recorded in the annals of Emperor Xuan's reign. He heard about these events and told Anshi about them, praising his son-in-law's fine qualities. Anshi would always stop him, saying that since the young emperor was on the throne, it was inappropriate to speak highly of his great-grandson. When Emperor Xuan ascended the throne, He had already died. The emperor said to Anshi: "Director Yeting used to speak highly of me in his lifetime, but General you stopped him. That was right." The emperor recalled He's kindness and wished to posthumously honor his tomb as that of the Marquis Endehou, assigning 200 families to guard it. He had one son who died young and left no descendants; his only male heir was Anshi's younger son, Pengzu. Pengzu had once sat with the emperor at a young age to study together; the emperor pointed out that he wished to bestow an official title upon him and first granted him the rank of Guannei Hou (a lesser marquis). Therefore, Anshi repeatedly declined the posthumous title for He and also requested a reduction in the number of families assigned to guard his tomb, eventually decreasing it to thirty households. The emperor said: "I am doing this for Director Yeting himself, not for the General." Anshi then ceased his objections and dared not speak further. The emperor thus issued an edict: "Let thirty families be assigned to guard the tomb of the late Director Yeting Zhang He." The emperor personally arranged for their location, placing them to the south of the Douji Wengshe house west of the tomb—this was a place where he had once played as a child. The following year, the emperor again issued an edict: "When I was still obscure and powerless, the late Director Yeting Zhang He guided me in my studies of literature and Confucian classics. His kindness and service were extraordinary, and his contributions to me were great indeed. As the Book of Songs says: 'No word goes unrewarded; no virtue goes unrepaid.' Therefore, let Zhang He's disciple and Secretary of the Inner Court Guannei Hou Pengzu be enfeoffed as Yandu Hou. Grant Zhang He the posthumous title of Marquis Yangdu Ai." At that time, Zhang He had an orphaned grandson named Ba, who was seven years old. He was appointed as Attendant-in-Ordinary and General of the Imperial Guards and granted the title of Guannei Hou with a fief of 300 households. Anshi, because both father and son were enfeoffed as marquises, saw his family's position in office reach great prominence; he thus resigned from his salary. An edict was issued ordering the Treasury to set aside unnamed funds belonging to the Zhang family, amounting to several million in coins.
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| | 張湯傳: |
安世尊為公侯，食邑萬戶，然身衣弋綈，夫人自紡績，家童七百人，皆有手技作事，內治產業，累積纖微，是以能殖其貨，富於大將軍光。天子甚尊憚大將軍，然內親安世，心密於光焉。 |
| | Anshi was honored as a marquis, with a fief of ten thousand households. Yet he himself wore plain hemp clothing, and his wife spun thread by hand; their seven hundred household attendants all possessed manual skills for work. They managed the family's property internally, accumulating wealth through careful attention to small matters, thus enabling them to amass great riches that surpassed those of General Gao. The emperor greatly respected and feared the Grand General, yet he was personally close to Anshi, holding him in a more intimate regard than even Gao.
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元康四年春，安世病，上疏歸侯，乞骸骨。天子報曰：「將軍年老被病，朕甚閔之。雖不能視事，折衝萬里，君先帝大臣，明於治亂，朕所不及，得數問焉，何感而上書歸衛將軍富平侯印？薄朕忘故，非所望也！願將軍強餐食，近醫藥，專精神，以輔天年。」安世復強起視事，至秋薨。天子贈印綬，送以輕車介士，諡曰敬侯。賜塋杜東，將作穿復土，起冢祠堂。子延壽嗣。 |
| | In spring of Yuankang Year Four, Anshi fell ill and submitted a memorial requesting to return his marquis title and asking for permission to retire on grounds of old age. The emperor replied: "General, you are old and afflicted with illness; I feel deep sympathy for your condition. Although you are unable to attend to official duties, your strategic wisdom extends for ten thousand li. You were a senior minister of the late emperor and understand governance and disorder more clearly than I do; it is precisely because I value this that I wish to consult with you frequently. Why have you suddenly submitted a request to return the seal of the General Commanding the Guards and the title of Marquis Fuping?" To regard me as having forgotten old bonds is not what I expected at all! I hope you will take your meals heartily, seek medical care nearby, and concentrate your spirit to support the years of Heaven." Anshi once again rose from his illness to attend official duties but died in autumn. The emperor posthumously bestowed the seal and sash, sending a light carriage with armed soldiers to escort him, and granted him the posthumous title Marquis Jing. He was buried east of Dulung; the Office of Works excavated and prepared the tomb, building a shrine hall at its entrance. His son Yanshou succeeded him.
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延壽已歷位九卿，既嗣侯，國在陳留，別邑在魏郡，租入歲千餘萬。延壽自以身無功德，何以能久堪先人大國，數上書讓減戶邑，又因弟陽都侯彭祖口陳至誠。天子以為有讓，乃徙封平原，并一國，戶口如故，而租稅減半。薨，諡曰愛侯。子勃嗣，為散騎諫大夫。 |
| | Yanshou had already held positions among the Nine Ministers; after succeeding to his marquis title, his fief was in Chenliu, with additional estates in Weiqu, yielding annual revenues of over ten million. Yanshou considered that he himself had no virtue or merit; how could he long be worthy of the great fief left by his ancestors? He repeatedly submitted memorials requesting a reduction in his fief and its population, and also through his younger brother Yangdu Hou Pengzu, expressed his sincere feelings verbally. The emperor considered this to be a sign of humility and thus transferred the enfeoffment to Pingyuan, merging it into one fief. The number of households remained unchanged, but the tax burden was reduced by half. He died and was posthumously granted the title Marquis Ai. His son Bo succeeded him and served as Attendant-in-Ordinary with the rank of Counselor.
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元帝初即位，詔列侯舉茂材，勃舉太官獻丞陳湯。湯有罪，勃坐削戶二百，會薨，故賜諡曰繆侯。後湯立功西域，世以勃為知人。子臨嗣。 |
| | In the early years of Emperor Yuan's reign, an edict was issued ordering marquises to recommend outstanding talents; Bo recommended Chen Tang, a food steward in the Office of Imperial Banquets. Tang was later found guilty of crimes, and Bo was punished by having 200 households removed from his fief. However, since he died at this time, the emperor posthumously granted him the title Marquis Miu. Later, when Tang achieved great success in the Western Regions, the world regarded Bo as a man who could recognize talent. His son Lin succeeded him.
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| | 張湯傳: |
臨亦謙儉，每登閣殿，常歎曰：「桑、霍為我戒，豈不厚哉！」且死，分施宗族故舊，薄葬不起墳。臨尚敬武公主。薨，子放嗣。 |
| | Lin was also modest and frugal, and whenever he ascended the palace halls, he would often sigh: "Sang and Hua are my warnings; how profound their lessons are!" On his deathbed, he distributed his wealth among relatives and old friends, requesting a simple burial without the construction of a tomb. Lin married Princess Jingwu, who was honored with the title of Respectful Lady. He died and his son Fang succeeded him.
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鴻嘉中，上欲遵武帝故事，與近臣游宴，放以公主子開敏得幸。放取皇后弟平恩侯許嘉女，上為放供張，賜甲第，充以乘輿服飾，號為天子取婦，皇后嫁女。大官私官並供具第，兩宮使者冠蓋不絕，賞賜以千萬數。放為侍中中郎將，監平樂屯兵，置莫府，儀比將軍。與上臥起，寵愛殊絕，常從為微行出游，北至甘泉，南至長楊、五莋，鬥雞走馬長安中，積數年。 |
| | During the Hongjia period, the emperor wished to follow the precedent of Emperor Wu and entertain his close ministers in banquets; Fang, as a son-in-law of the princess and possessing intelligence and wit, gained imperial favor. Fang married the daughter of Marquis Pingen Xu Jia, who was the emperor's brother-in-law. The emperor provided lavish arrangements for the wedding and granted Fang a first-rate residence filled with imperial carriages and attire; this event became known as "the Son of Heaven taking a bride" and "the Empress giving away her daughter." Both the official and private kitchens of the palace jointly provided lavish wedding supplies, while envoys from both the imperial and empress's palaces arrived in an unceasing stream, their carriages and headdresses filling the roads. The rewards and gifts totaled tens of millions. Fang was appointed as Attendant-in-Office and General of the Imperial Guards, overseeing troops stationed at Pingle. He established a headquarters (mofu) with ceremonial honors equal to those of a general. He shared the emperor's sleeping and waking hours, receiving extraordinary favor. He often accompanied the emperor on secret outings; traveling north to Ganzhuang and south to Changyang and Wuzuo, they raced horses and cockfought in Chang'an for several years.
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| | 張湯傳: |
是時上諸舅皆害其寵，白太后。太后以上春秋富，動作不節，甚以過放。時數有災異，議者歸咎放等。於是丞相宣、御史大夫方進奏：「放驕蹇縱恣，奢淫不制。前侍御史修等四人奉使至放家逐名捕賊，時放見在，奴從者閉門設兵弩射吏，距使者不肯內。知男子李游君欲獻女，使樂府音監景武強求不得，使奴康等之其家，賊傷三人。又以縣官事怨樂府游徼莽，而使大奴駿等四十餘人群黨盛兵弩，白晝入樂府攻射官寺，縛束長吏子弟，斫破器物，宮中皆奔走伏匿。莽自髡鉗，衣赭衣，及守令史調等皆徒跣叩頭謝放，放乃止。奴從者支屬並乘權勢為暴虐，至求吏妻不得，殺其夫，或恚一人，妄殺其親屬，輒亡入放弟，不得，幸得勿治。放行輕薄，連犯大惡，有感動陰陽之咎，為臣不忠首，罪名雖顯，前蒙恩。驕逸悖理，與背畔無異，臣子之惡，莫大於是，不宜宿衛在位。臣請免放歸國，以銷眾邪之萌，厭海內之心。」 |
| | At that time, the emperor's maternal uncles all envied his favor and reported to the empress dowager. The empress dowager considered the emperor still young in years, yet indulging without restraint, and greatly blamed Fang for this excess. At that time, there were frequent natural disasters and omens of ill fortune; critics attributed these to Fang and others. Thus, the Chancellor Xuan and the Minister of Justice Fang Jin submitted a memorial: "Fang is arrogant and indulgent, living in luxury without restraint. Previously, four officials including the former Inspector Xiu were sent to Fang's residence to pursue a criminal by name. At that time, Fang was present at home; his servants locked the gates and armed themselves with crossbows to shoot at the officers, refusing to allow the envoys entry." Fang knew that a man named Li Youjun wished to present his daughter, but when the Music Bureau official Jing Wu failed to obtain her by force, he sent his servant Kang and others to her home, where they wounded three people. Furthermore, due to a grudge against the Music Bureau official Youjiao Mang over an official matter, Fang sent more than forty of his major servants and retainers in a group armed with crossbows and weapons. During broad daylight, they stormed into the Music Bureau, attacking government offices, binding officials' sons and daughters, smashing equipment, causing all within the palace to flee and hide in fear. Mang shaved his head and had iron collars fastened to it, dressed in yellow prison clothes; the county magistrates Shi Diaolai and others all knelt barefoot and kowtowed repeatedly before Fang as an apology. Only then did Fang cease his actions. Fang's servants and their associates, emboldened by his power, committed violent acts. On one occasion, when they could not obtain the wife of an official, they killed her husband; in another case, out of anger at a single person, they arbitrarily murdered his relatives. These criminals would then flee to Fang's younger brother for protection and were never punished. Fang's conduct was frivolous and reckless, repeatedly committing grave offenses. His actions have caused disturbances in the balance of yin and yang; as a minister, he has been the first to betray loyalty. Though his crimes are clear, he previously received imperial clemency. He is arrogant and lawless, no different from a traitor. Among the vices of subjects, none are greater than this; he should not be allowed to remain in his post or serve as an imperial attendant. We humbly request that Fang be stripped of office and sent back to his fief, so as to eliminate the budding influence of wickedness and satisfy the people's hearts across the land."
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| | 張湯傳: |
上不得已，左遷放為北地都尉。數月，復徵入侍中。太后以放為言，出放為天水屬國都尉。永始、元延間，比年日蝕，故久不還放，璽書勞問不絕。居歲餘，徵放歸第視母公主疾。數月，主有瘳，出放為河東都尉。上雖愛放，然上迫太后，下用大臣，故常涕泣而遣之。後復徵放為侍中光祿大夫，秩中二千石。歲餘，丞相方進復奏放，上不得已，免放，賜錢五百萬，遣就國。數月，成帝崩，放思慕哭泣而死。 |
| | The emperor had no choice but to demote Fang to Commandant of Beidi. After several months, he was again summoned back into the position of Attendant-in-Office. The empress dowager raised concerns about Fang and had him transferred to serve as Commandant of Tianshui Shugu Guo. During the Yongshi and Yuanyan periods, solar eclipses occurred in successive years; thus, for a long time Fang was not recalled. Imperial edicts expressing concern and offering encouragement were continuously sent to him. After more than a year, Fang was summoned back to his residence to care for the illness of his mother, the Princess. Several months later, when the princess recovered somewhat, Fang was reassigned as Commandant of Hedong. Although the emperor loved Fang dearly, he was pressured by the empress dowager above and constrained by his ministers below; thus, he often wept while sending him away. Later, Fang was again summoned to serve as Attendant-in-Office with the rank of Guanglu Daifu, holding a salary grade equivalent to Zhongerqianshi. After more than a year, Chancellor Fang Jin again impeached Fang; the emperor had no choice but to dismiss him from office, granting 5 million coins and sending him back to his fief. Several months later, Emperor Cheng died; overwhelmed with grief and longing, Fang wept himself to death.
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| | 張湯傳: |
初，安世長子千秋與霍光子禹俱為中郎將，將兵隨度遼將軍范明友擊烏桓。還，謁大將軍光，問千秋戰鬥方略，山川形勢，千秋口對兵事，畫地成圖，無所忘失。光復問禹，禹不能記，曰：「皆有文書。」光由是賢千秋，以禹為不材，歎曰：「霍氏世衰，張氏興矣！」及禹誅滅，而安世子孫相繼，自宣、元以來為侍中、中常侍、諸曹散騎、列校尉者凡十餘人。功臣之世，唯有金氏、張氏，親近寵貴，比於外戚。 |
| | Initially, Anshi's eldest son Qianqiu and Huo Guang's son Yu both served as Generals of the Imperial Guards. They led troops under General Duluoluo Fan Mingyou to attack the Wuhuan. After returning, they paid a visit to the Grand General Guang. Guang asked Qianqiu about his strategies in battle and knowledge of the terrain; Qianqiu answered orally while drawing maps on the ground, recalling everything without omission or error. Guang then asked Yu the same questions, but Yu could not recall and said: "All of this is recorded in written documents." From this, Guang considered Qianqiu to be virtuous and deemed Yu unworthy, sighing: "The Huo family is declining in virtue, while the Zhangs are rising!" When Yu was executed, the descendants of Anshi succeeded in prominence; since the reigns of Emperors Xuan and Yuan, more than ten members of the Zhang family had served as Attendants-in-Office, Regular Attendants, various officials of the Secretariat, or Commanders. Among the descendants of meritorious ministers, only the Jin and Zhang families remained close to the throne, enjoying favor and prestige comparable to that of the imperial relatives.
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| | 張湯傳: |
放子純嗣侯，恭儉自修，明習漢家制度故事，有敬侯遺風。王莽時不失爵，建武中歷位至大司空，更封富平之別鄉為武始侯。 |
| | Fang's son Chun succeeded as marquis; he was respectful and frugal, cultivating himself diligently, well-versed in the systems and precedents of the Han dynasty, embodying the legacy of Marquis Jing. During Wang Mang's reign, he did not lose his title; in the middle of Emperor Guangwu's Jianwu era, he held successive high offices up to Grand Commandant of Works and was re-enfeoffed with a different district from Fuping as Wushi Hou.
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| | 張湯傳: |
張湯本居杜陵，安世武、昭、宣世輒隨陵，凡三徙，復還杜陵。 |
| | Zhang Tang originally lived in Dulung, and during the reigns of Wu, Zhao, and Xuan emperors, Anshi moved with each imperial mausoleum. After three relocations, they eventually returned to Dulung.
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| | 張湯傳: |
贊曰：馮商稱張湯之先與留侯同祖，而司馬遷不言，故闕焉。漢興以來，侯者百數，保國持寵，未有若富平者也。湯雖酷烈，及身蒙咎，其推賢揚善，固宜有後。安世履道，滿而不溢。賀之陰德，亦有助云。 |
| | Commentary: Feng Shang claimed that Zhang Tang's ancestors shared the same lineage as Marquis Liu, but since Sima Qian did not mention this, it is omitted here. Since the founding of the Han dynasty, there have been hundreds of marquises; yet none preserved their fief and maintained imperial favor as successfully as Fuping. Although Zhang Tang was severe and ruthless, he himself bore the consequences of his actions; yet his promotion of virtuous men and commendation of good deeds ensured that it was indeed fitting for him to have descendants. Anshi followed the path of virtue, achieving fullness without excess. The hidden virtues of He also contributed to this outcome.
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