| | 班梁列傳: |
班超字仲升，扶風平陵人，徐令彪之少子也。為人有大志，不修細節。然內孝謹，居家常執勤苦，不恥勞辱。有口辯，而涉獵書傳。永平五年，兄固被召詣校書郎，超與母隨至洛陽。家貧，常為官傭書以供養。久勞苦，嘗輟業投筆歎曰：「大丈夫無它志略，猶當效傅介子、張騫立功異域，以取封侯，安能久事筆研閒乎？」左右皆笑之。超曰：「小子安知壯士志哉！」其後行詣相者，曰：「祭酒，布衣諸生耳，而當封侯萬里之外。」超問其狀。相者指曰：「生燕頷虎頸，飛而食肉，此萬里侯相也。」久之，顯宗問固「卿弟安在」，固對「為官寫書，受直以養老母」。帝乃除超為蘭臺令史，後坐事免官。 |
| | Ban Chao, courtesy name Zhongsheng, was a native of Puliping, Fufeng, the youngest son of Xu Lingbiao. He was a man with great ambitions and did not concern himself with minor details. Yet he was filially pious and cautious within, often performing hard work at home without being ashamed of labor or humiliation. He had eloquence in speech and had a broad but superficial knowledge of books and historical records. In the fifth year of Yongping (52 AD), his elder brother Ban Gu was summoned to serve as a Xiaoshulan, and Ban Chao went with his mother to Luoyang. Because their family was poor, he often worked as an office scribe to support them. After enduring prolonged toil, he once abandoned his work and threw down his writing brush in a sigh, saying: "A great man without extraordinary ambitions should still emulate Fu Jiezǐ and Zhang Qian by establishing merit abroad to attain the title of marquis. How could one remain content with such mundane tasks as pen and ink for long?" Those around him all laughed at him. Ban Chao said, "How could such a petty person understand the aspirations of a valiant man!" Later, when he went to consult an astrologer, the latter said: "Master Jisou is merely a common scholar in civilian dress, yet you will be enfeoffed as marquis beyond ten thousand li away." Ban Chao asked for an explanation. The astrologer pointed and said: "You have the features of a swan's neck and a tiger's throat, soaring to feast on flesh—this is the physiognomy of a marquis ten thousand li away." After some time, Emperor Xianzong asked Ban Gu, "Where is your younger brother?" Ban Gu replied, "He is working as an office scribe, earning money to support his aged mother." The emperor then appointed Ban Chao as a Lingshi of Lantai, but later he was dismissed from office due to an offense.
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十六年，奉車都尉竇固出擊匈奴，以超為假司馬，將兵別擊伊吾，戰於蒲類海，多斬首虜而還。固以為能，遣與從事郭恂俱使西域。 |
| | In the sixteenth year (73 AD), Fengche Duyi Dou Gu led an expedition against the Xiongnu, and Ban Chao was appointed as a Jushi Shima, commanding troops separately to attack Yiwu. He fought a battle at Pulei Hai, killing many enemies before returning. Dou Gu considered him capable and sent him together with his subordinate Guo Xun on an envoy mission to the Western Regions.
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超到鄯善，鄯善王廣奉超禮敬甚備，後忽更疏懈。超謂其官屬曰：「寧覺廣禮意薄乎？此必有北虜使來，狐疑未知所從故也。明者睹未萌，況已著邪。」乃召侍胡詐之曰：「匈奴使來數日，今安在乎？」侍胡惶恐，具服其狀。超乃閉侍胡，悉會其吏士三十六人，與共飲，酒酣，因激怒之曰：「卿曹與我俱在絕域，欲立大功，以求富貴。今虜使到裁數日，而王廣禮敬即廢；如令鄯善收吾屬送匈奴，骸骨長為豺狼食矣。為之柰何？」官屬皆曰：「今在危亡之地，死生從司馬。」超曰：「不入虎穴，不得虎子。當今之計，獨有因夜以火攻虜，使彼不知我多少，必大震怖，可殄盡也。滅此虜，則鄯善破膽，功成事立矣。」眾曰：「當與從事議之。」超怒曰：「吉凶決於今日。從事文俗吏，聞此必恐而謀泄，死無所名，非壯士也！」眾曰：「善」。初夜，遂將吏士往奔虜營。會天大風，超令十人持鼓藏虜舍後，約曰：「見火然，皆當鳴鼓大呼。」餘人悉持兵弩夾門而伏。超乃順風縱火，前後鼓噪。虜眾驚亂，超手格殺三人，吏兵斬其使及從士三十餘級，餘眾百許人悉燒死。明日乃還告郭恂，恂大驚，既而色動。超知其意，舉手曰：「掾雖不行，班超何心獨擅之乎？」恂乃悅。超於是召鄯善王廣，以虜使首示之，一國震怖。超曉告撫慰，遂納子為質。還奏於竇固，固大喜，具上超功效，并求更選使使西域。帝壯超節，詔固曰：「吏如班超，何故不遣而更選乎？今以超為軍司馬，令遂前功。」超復受使，固欲益其兵，超曰：「願將本所從三十餘人足矣。如有不虞，多益為累。」 |
| | When Ban Chao arrived at Shanshan, King Guang of Shanshan treated him with great courtesy and respect; but later suddenly became more distant and careless. Ban Chao said to his subordinates, "Have you noticed that King Guang's courtesy has become less sincere?" This must be because envoys from the northern Xiongnu have arrived, and he is now uncertain about whom to follow. The discerning can foresee things before they arise; how much more so when signs are already evident." He then summoned the attendants of the local people and deceived them, saying: "The Xiongnu envoys have been here for several days. Where are they now?" The attendants were frightened and confessed everything. Ban Chao then locked up the attendants and gathered his thirty-six officers and soldiers, drinking with them. When they were in high spirits, he incited their anger by saying: "You all are with me in this remote land, desiring to establish great merit to attain wealth and honor. Now that the Xiongnu envoys arrived only a few days ago, King Guang has already ceased his courtesy and respect; If Shanshan captures us and hands us over to the Xiongnu, our bones will forever be devoured by wolves and jackals. What should we do about this?" His subordinates all said: "Now that we are in a place of peril, our lives and deaths follow the orders of the Shima." Ban Chao said: "Without entering the tiger's den, one cannot capture its cub. The plan now is to launch a surprise fire attack on the Xiongnu at night, so that they will not know how many of us there are. They will surely be greatly frightened and can thus be completely annihilated. If we destroy these Xiongnu, Shanshan's king will be terrified out of his wits, and our mission will succeed." The men said: "We should consult with the subordinate Guo Xun first." Ban Chao angrily replied, "Whether we succeed or fail is decided today. Guo Xun is a timid official; if he hears of this, he will surely be frightened and reveal our plan. To die without honor would not be the act of a valiant man!" The men said: "You are right." At the beginning of the night, Ban Chao led his officers and soldiers to rush toward the Xiongnu camp. Coincidentally, a strong wind was blowing. Ban Chao ordered ten men to carry drums and hide behind the Xiongnu tents, instructing them: "When you see fire lit, all of you must beat the drums and shout loudly." The rest held weapons and crossbows, lying in ambush on both sides of the gate. Ban Chao then set fire with the wind at his back, while men before and behind beat drums and raised a great clamor. The Xiongnu forces were thrown into chaos. Ban Chao personally killed three men, while his officers and soldiers beheaded the envoy and over thirty of his attendants; more than a hundred others perished in the fire. The next day, Ban Chao returned to inform Guo Xun, who was greatly startled; but soon his expression changed. Ban Chao sensed his thoughts and raised his hand to say: "Although you did not go, how could Ban Chao have the heart to claim this feat alone?" Guo Xun was then pleased. Ban Chao summoned King Guang of Shanshan and showed him the head of the Xiongnu envoy, causing great fear throughout the kingdom. Ban Chao explained the situation with kindness and reassurance, and Shanshan then sent its prince as a hostage. Returning to report to Dou Gu, Ban Chao's achievements were greatly praised by the latter, who fully reported Ban Chao's merits and requested further selection of envoys for missions to the Western Regions. The emperor praised Ban Chao's valor and issued an edict to Dou Gu, saying: "An official like Ban Chao—why not send him instead of selecting someone else?" Now appoint Ban Chao as Jun Shima and let him continue his previous achievements." Ban Chao accepted the mission again. Dou Gu wanted to increase his troops, but Ban Chao said: "I request only my original thirty or so men; that will be sufficient. If unexpected dangers arise, more people would become a burden."
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| | 班梁列傳: |
是時于窴王廣德新攻破莎車，遂雄張南道，而匈奴遣使監護其國。超既西，先至于窴。廣德禮意甚疏。且其俗信巫。巫言：「神怒何故欲向漢？漢使有騧馬，急求取以祠我。」廣德乃遣使就超請馬。超密知其狀，報許之，而令巫自來取馬。有頃，巫至，超即斬其首以送廣德，因辭讓之。廣德素聞超在鄯善誅滅虜使，大惶恐，即攻殺匈奴使者而降超。超重賜其王以下，因鎮撫焉。 |
| | At that time, King Guangde of Yutian had just defeated Shache and thus dominated the southern route. Meanwhile, the Xiongnu had sent an envoy to supervise his kingdom. After Ban Chao moved westward, he first arrived at Yutian. King Guangde treated him with very little courtesy. Moreover, the local people believed in shamans. The shaman said: "The gods are angry—why do you wish to turn toward Han? The Han envoy has a gray horse. Quickly obtain it and sacrifice it to me." King Guangde then sent an envoy to Ban Chao requesting the horse. Ban Chao secretly learned of this and replied in agreement, but instructed that the shaman himself should come to take the horse. After a while, the shaman arrived, and Ban Chao immediately beheaded him and sent his head to King Guangde, then politely rebuked him. King Guangde had long heard of Ban Chao's execution of the Xiongnu envoy in Shanshan and was greatly frightened. He immediately attacked and killed the Xiongnu envoy before surrendering to Ban Chao. Ban Chao gave generous gifts to King Guangde and his subordinates, thus pacifying them.
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時龜茲王建為匈奴所立，倚恃虜威，據有北道，攻破疏勒，殺其王，而立龜茲人兜題為疏勒王。明年春，超從閒道至疏勒。去兜題所居槃橐城九十里，逆遣吏田慮先往降之。敕慮曰：「兜題本非疏勒種，國人必不用命。若不即降，便可執之。」慮既到，兜題見慮輕弱，殊無降意。慮因其無備，遂前劫縛兜題。左右出其不意，皆驚懼奔走。慮馳報超，超即赴之，悉召疏勒將吏，說以龜茲無道之狀，因立其故王兄子忠為王，國人大悅。忠及官屬皆請殺兜題，超不聽，欲示以威信，釋而遣之。疏勒由是與龜茲結怨。 |
| | At that time, the King of Kuche, Jian, had been installed by the Xiongnu and relied on their power to control the northern route. He attacked and captured Shule, killed its king, and appointed a native of Kuche named Dou Ti as the new King of Shule. The following spring, Ban Chao took a secret route to reach Shule. Ninety li away from the city of Pantuo where Dou Ti resided, Ban Chao sent an official named Tian Lü ahead to persuade him to surrender. He instructed Tian Lü: "Dou Ti is not a native of Shule; the people will certainly refuse to obey his commands. If he does not surrender immediately, you may seize him." After Tian Lü arrived, Dou Ti saw that he was weak and showed no intention of surrendering. Taking advantage of his lack of preparedness, Tian Lü suddenly rushed forward to seize and bind him. Dou Ti's attendants were caught off guard, all startled and fleeing in panic. Tian Lü hurried to report this to Ban Chao, who immediately arrived and summoned all the Shule generals and officials. He explained how King Jian of Kuche had acted without virtue, and then installed Zhong, the nephew of the former king, as the new ruler; the people of Shule were greatly pleased. Zhong and his officials all requested to kill Dou Ti, but Ban Chao refused, wishing to demonstrate both authority and trustworthiness. He released him and sent him away. From then on, Shule became hostile toward Kuche.
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十八年，帝崩。焉耆以中國大喪，遂攻沒都護陳睦。超孤立無援，而龜茲、姑墨數發兵攻疏勒。超守盤橐城，與忠為首尾，士吏單少，拒守歲餘。肅宗初即位，以陳睦新沒，恐超單危不能自立，下詔徵超。超發還，疏勒舉國憂恐。其都尉黎弇曰：「漢使棄我，我必復為龜茲所滅耳。誠不忍見漢使去。」因以刀自剄。超還至于窴，王侯以下皆號泣曰：「依漢使如父母，誠不可去。」互抱超馬腳，不得行。超恐于窴終不聽其東，又欲遂本志，乃更還疏勒。疏勒兩城自超去後，復降龜茲，而與尉頭連兵。超捕斬反者，擊破尉頭，殺六百餘人，疏勒復安。 |
| | In the eighteenth year (75 AD), the emperor died. Yanqi, taking advantage of the great mourning in China, attacked and killed the Protector General Chen Mu. Ban Chao was isolated without support, while Kuche and Kumul repeatedly sent troops to attack Shule. Ban Chao defended the city of Pantuo together with Zhong, who held the rear; their forces were small and weak, yet they resisted for over a year. At the beginning of Emperor Suzong's reign, because Chen Mu had just been killed and there were fears that Ban Chao was too isolated and vulnerable to stand on his own, an imperial edict was issued recalling him. When Ban Chao set out for his return journey, the entire state of Shule was filled with anxiety and fear. Their Duwei Li Yan said: "The Han envoy is abandoning us; we will surely be destroyed by Kuche again. I truly cannot bear to witness the departure of the Han envoy." He then cut his own throat with a knife. When Ban Chao returned to Yutian, the kings and marquises down to lower ranks all wept and said: "We rely on the Han envoy as our father and mother; it is truly impossible for us to part with him." They embraced Ban Chao's horse legs, preventing him from proceeding. Ban Chao feared that Yutian would ultimately not allow him to return eastward and also wished to pursue his original ambition, so he returned once more to Shule. After Ban Chao left, the two cities of Shule had again surrendered to Kuche and allied with Yutou in military cooperation. Ban Chao captured and executed the rebels, defeated Yutou, killing more than six hundred people, and Shule was once again at peace.
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建初三年，超率疏勒、康居、于窴、拘彌兵一萬人攻姑墨石城，破之，斬首七百級。超欲因此叵平諸國，乃上疏請兵。曰：「臣竊見先帝欲開西域，故北擊匈奴，西使外國，鄯善、于窴即時向化。今拘彌、莎車、疏勒、月氏、烏孫、康居復願歸附，欲共并力破滅龜茲，平通漢道。若得龜茲，則西域未服者百分之一耳。臣伏自惟念，卒伍小吏，實願從谷吉效命絕域，庶幾張騫棄身曠野。昔魏絳列國大夫，尚能和輯諸戎，況臣奉大漢之威，而無鈆刀一割之用乎？前世議者皆曰取三十六國，號為斷匈奴右臂。今西域諸國，自日之所入，莫不向化，大小欣欣，貢奉不絕，唯焉耆、龜茲獨未服從。臣前與官屬三十六人奉使絕域，備遭艱厄。自孤守疏勒，於今五載，胡夷情數，臣頗識之。問其城郭小大，皆言『倚漢與依天等』。以是效之，則蔥領可通，蔥領通則龜茲可伐。今宜拜龜茲侍子白霸為其國王，以步騎數百送之，與諸國連兵，歲月之閒，龜茲可禽。以夷狄攻夷狄，計之善者也。臣見莎車、疏勒田地肥廣，草牧饒衍，不比敦煌，鄯善閒也，兵可不費中國而糧食自足。且姑墨、溫宿二王，特為龜茲所置，既非其種，更相厭苦，其埶必有降反。若二國來降，則龜茲自破。願下臣章，參考行事。誠有萬分，死復何恨。臣超區區，特蒙神靈，竊冀未便僵仆，目見西域平定，陛下舉萬年之觴，薦勳祖廟，布大喜於天下。」書奏，帝知其功可成，議欲給兵。平陵人徐幹素與超同志，上疏願奮身佐超。五年，遂以幹為假司馬，將弛刑及義從千人就超。 |
| | In the third year of Jianchu (78 AD), Ban Chao led an army of ten thousand men from Shule, Kangju, Yutian, and Kumul to attack the Shi Cheng fortress in Kumul. He captured it, killing seven hundred enemy soldiers. Ban Chao wished to take advantage of this momentum to pacify all the states and thus submitted a memorial requesting troops. He said: "I have observed that the late emperor wished to open up the Western Regions, hence he attacked the Xiongnu in the north and sent envoys westward. Shanshan and Yutian immediately submitted to Han culture. Now, Kumul, Shache, Shule, Yuezhi, Wusun, and Kangju once again wish to submit and desire to unite their strength to destroy Kuche and open the road between Han and the Western Regions. If we can capture Kuche, then only one percent of the Western Regions will remain unconquered. I, a mere low-ranking official, humbly reflect that I wish to follow Gu Ji and offer my life in the distant lands, hoping to emulate Zhang Qian who sacrificed himself on the wild frontier. In ancient times, Wei Jiong, a mere official of the feudal states, was still able to pacify and unite the various Rong tribes. How much more so should I, serving under the might of Great Han, be given even a single opportunity to wield my sword? In previous generations, those who discussed these matters all said that capturing the thirty-six states would sever the right arm of the Xiongnu. Now, all the states of the Western Regions—from where the sun sets—have submitted to Han influence. Great and small, they are joyful and have not ceased their tribute offerings; only Yanqi and Kuche remain defiant. Previously, I led thirty-six officials to the distant Western Regions and endured many hardships. Since I have been alone defending Shule for five years now, I am quite familiar with the customs and dispositions of these Hu and Yi peoples. When asked about the size of their cities and walls, they all said: "To rely on Han is as to rely on Heaven itself." If we act accordingly, the Tianshan Pass can be opened; once it is open, Kuche will fall. Now, we should appoint Bai Ba, the son of Kuche's envoy in Han territory, as their new king. Send a few hundred infantry and cavalry to escort him there, and with allied forces from other states, within months or years, Kuche can be captured. To use the Hu and Di peoples against each other is a most effective strategy. I have seen that the lands of Suoche and Shule are fertile and spacious, with abundant pastures for grazing; they compare favorably to Dunhuang or Shan'nan. Troops can be stationed there without burdening the central empire, as food supplies will naturally suffice. Moreover, the two kings of Gumo and Wensu are merely placed there by Kuche; they are not native to those lands, and thus the people resent them. Under such circumstances, some will surely surrender or rebel. If these two states come over in submission, then Kuche will naturally fall. I humbly request that Your Majesty issue my memorial for consideration and approval of its proposals. If there is even a one-in-ten-thousand chance, what regret could I possibly have in death? I, Ban Chao, a humble servant, have been uniquely favored by divine providence. I secretly hope that before my death, I may witness the pacification of the Western Regions. May Your Majesty raise a cup to celebrate ten thousand years, present our achievements in the ancestral temple, and proclaim this great joy throughout the realm." When his memorial was submitted, the emperor knew that his mission could succeed, and began to deliberate on sending troops. Xu Gan of Puliping had long shared Ban Chao's aspirations; he submitted a memorial requesting to accompany and assist Ban Chao in his endeavors. In the fifth year, Xu Gan was appointed as acting Sima (military officer), and led a force of one thousand men consisting of pardoned convicts and volunteer followers to join Ban Chao.
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先是莎車以為漢兵不出，遂降於龜茲，而疏勒都尉番辰亦復反叛。會徐幹適至，超遂與幹擊番辰，大破之，斬首千餘級，多獲生口。超既破番辰，欲進攻龜茲。以烏孫兵彊，宜因其力，乃上言：「烏孫大國，控弦十萬，故武帝妻以公主，至孝宣皇帝，卒得其用。今可遣使招慰，與共合力。」帝納之。八年，拜超為將兵長史，假鼓吹幢麾。以徐幹為軍司馬，別遣衛候李邑護送烏孫使者，賜大小昆彌以下錦帛。 |
| | Previously, Suoche had assumed that Han troops would not come and so submitted to Kuche. Meanwhile, Fan Chen, the Duwei (commander) of Shule, also rebelled once more. Just as Xu Gan arrived, Ban Chao immediately joined forces with him to attack Fan Chen. They defeated the rebels in a major battle, beheading over one thousand enemy soldiers and capturing many prisoners. After defeating Fan Chen, Ban Chao wished to advance against Kuche. Because the Wusun had a strong army, Ban Chao believed it was advisable to take advantage of their strength. He therefore submitted a memorial stating: "The Wusun are a great state with ten thousand horsemen under arms. Hence Emperor Wu married them a princess; by the time of Emperor Xuan, they were ultimately made useful. Now we may send envoys to invite and pacify them, uniting with them in strength." The emperor accepted his suggestion. In the eighth year, Ban Chao was appointed as Jiangbing Zhangshi (military commander), and granted ceremonial drums, bugles, banners, and standards. Xu Gan was appointed as Jun Sima (military administrator), while Wei Hou Li Yi was separately dispatched to escort the Wusun envoys and bestow bolts of brocade and silk upon the Daxiao Kunmi and those below them.
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李邑始到于窴，而值龜茲攻疏勒，恐懼不敢前，因上書陳西域之功不可成，又盛毀超擁愛妻，抱愛子，安樂外國，無內顧心。超聞之，歎曰：「身非曾參而有三至之讒，恐見疑於當時矣。」遂去其妻。帝知超忠，乃切責邑曰：「縱超擁愛妻，抱愛子，思歸之士千餘人，何能盡與超同心乎？」令邑詣超受節度。詔超：「若邑任在外者，便留與從事。」超即遣邑將烏孫侍子還京師。徐幹謂超曰：「邑前親毀君，欲敗西域，今何不緣詔書留之，更遣它吏送侍子乎？」超曰：「是何言之陋也！以邑毀超，故今遣之。內省不疚，何卹人言！快意留之，非忠臣也。」 |
| | Li Yi had just arrived at Yutian when he encountered Kuche attacking Shule. Filled with fear, he dared not advance and therefore submitted a memorial claiming that the mission in the Western Regions could not succeed. He also greatly slandered Ban Chao for allegedly indulging his beloved wife and cherished son, enjoying comfort abroad without any loyalty to Han. Upon hearing this, Ban Chao sighed and said: "Though I am no Zeng Shen, I have now been slandered three times. I fear that I will be doubted in my own time." He then sent away his wife. The emperor knew Ban Chao to be loyal and thus sternly rebuked Li Yi, saying: "Even if Ban Chao were indulging his beloved wife or cherished son, how could he possibly have the full loyalty of over a thousand soldiers who long for home?" He ordered Li Yi to report to Ban Chao and accept command under him. The emperor issued an edict to Ban Chao: "If Li Yi is stationed abroad, you may leave him there with your staff." Ban Chao immediately dispatched Li Yi to escort the Wusun envoy's son back to the capital. Xu Gan said to Ban Chao: "Before, Li Yi personally slandered you and sought to undermine the Western Regions. Now why not take advantage of the imperial decree to keep him here, and instead send another official to escort the envoy's son?" Ban Chao said: "What a shallow remark this is!" Because Li Yi slandered me, I now send him away. If my conscience is clear within, why should I fear the words of others! To keep him for personal satisfaction would not be the act of a loyal minister."
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明年，復遣假司馬和恭等四人將兵八百詣超，超因發疏勒、于窴兵擊莎車。莎車陰通使疏勒王忠，啖以重利，忠遂反從之，西保烏即城。超乃更立其府丞成大為疏勒王，悉發其不反者以攻忠。積半歲，而康居遣精兵救之，超不能下。是時月氏新與康居婚，相親，超乃使使多齎錦帛遺月氏王，令曉示康居王，康居王乃罷兵，執忠以歸其國，烏即城遂降於超。 |
| | The following year, four more men were sent under the command of acting Sima He Gong and others with eight hundred troops to join Ban Chao; Ban Chao then mobilized forces from Shule and Yutian to attack Suoche. Suoche secretly sent envoys through the former Shule king Zhong, offering him generous rewards. Zhong then rebelled and joined them, retreating west to defend Wujicheng. Ban Chao therefore replaced the former king by appointing Cheng Da, a former official of his own staff, as the new King of Shule. He mobilized all those in Shule who had not rebelled to attack Zhong. After half a year, Kangju sent elite troops to rescue Zhong, and Ban Chao could not capture the city. At this time, the Yuezhi had recently married into a royal family of Kangju and were closely allied. Ban Chao therefore sent envoys bearing generous gifts of brocade to the Yuezhi king, who then conveyed a message to the Kangju king. The Kangju king withdrew his troops, arrested Zhong, and returned him to his homeland; thus Wujicheng surrendered to Ban Chao.
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後三年，忠說康居王借兵，還據損中，密與龜茲謀，遣使詐降於超。超內知其姦而外偽許之。忠大喜，即從輕騎詣超。超密勒兵待之，為供張設樂。酒行，乃叱吏縛忠斬之。因擊破其眾，殺七百餘人，南道於是遂通。 |
| | Three years later, Zhong persuaded the Kangju king to lend him troops and returned to occupy Sunzhong. Secretly in league with Kuche, he sent envoys pretending to surrender to Ban Chao as a ruse. Ban Chao knew of his treachery internally but outwardly pretended to accept it. Zhong was greatly pleased and immediately rode in lightly armed with a small escort to meet Ban Chao. Ban Chao secretly prepared his troops for the encounter, while publicly arranging banquets and music as if for celebration. As the wine was served, Ban Chao suddenly ordered officials to seize Zhong and behead him. He then attacked and defeated Zhong's remaining forces, killing over seven hundred men; thus the southern route was once again opened.
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明年，超發于窴諸國兵二萬五千人，復擊莎車。而龜茲王遣左將軍發溫宿、姑墨、尉頭合五萬人救之。超召將校及于窴王議曰：「今兵少不敵，其計莫若各散去。于窴從是而東，長史亦於此西歸，可須夜鼓聲而發。」陰緩所得生口。龜茲王聞之大喜，自以萬騎於西界遮超，溫宿王將八千騎於東界徼于窴。超知二虜已出，密召諸部勒兵，雞鳴馳赴莎車營，胡大驚亂奔走，追斬五千餘級，大獲其馬畜財物。莎車遂降，龜茲等因各退散，自是威震西域。 |
| | The following year, Ban Chao mobilized twenty-five thousand troops from Yutian and other states to attack Suoche once more. Meanwhile, the Kuche king dispatched his Left General to raise five thousand troops from Wensu, Gumo, and Youtou to come to Suoche's rescue. Ban Chao summoned his generals, officers, and the king of Yutian for a meeting and said: "Now our forces are few and cannot match theirs. Our best course is to scatter and retreat." "The king of Yutian should go east, while I as Zhangshi will return west. We may depart at the sound of drums in the night." He secretly delayed the release of captured prisoners. The Kuche king, hearing this news, was greatly pleased and led ten thousand cavalry to intercept Ban Chao at the western frontier. The Wensu king also led eight thousand cavalry to block Yutian's forces from the east. Ban Chao, knowing the two enemy forces had already moved out, secretly summoned his troops and ordered them to prepare for battle. At the crowing of the rooster, he rushed with full speed toward Suoche's camp. The Hu forces were greatly startled and fled in chaos; Ban Chao pursued them, beheading more than five thousand enemies and seizing a great number of horses, livestock, and valuables. Suoche then surrendered, and Kuche and others withdrew in disarray. From that time on, Ban Chao's authority was feared throughout the Western Regions.
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初，月氏嘗助漢擊車師有功，是歲貢奉珍寶、符拔、師子，因求漢公主。超拒還其使，由是怨恨。永元二年，月氏遣其副王謝將兵七萬攻超。超眾少，皆大恐。超譬軍士曰：「月氏兵雖多，然數千里踰蔥領來，非有運輸，何足憂邪？但當收穀堅守，彼飢窮自降，不過數十日決矣。」謝遂前攻超，不下，又鈔掠無所得。超度其糧將盡，必從龜茲求救，乃遣兵數百於東界要之。謝果遣騎齎金銀珠玉以賂龜茲。超伏兵遮擊，盡殺之，持其使首以示謝。謝大驚，即遣使請罪，願得生歸。超縱遣之。月氏由是大震，歲奉貢獻。 |
| | Initially, the Yuezhi once aided Han in attacking Cheshi and had rendered meritorious service. In this year, they presented tribute of rare treasures, Fu Ba (a type of weapon), and a lion, while also requesting that a Han princess be given to them in marriage. Ban Chao refused their request and sent the envoys back; thus they became resentful. In Yongyuan 2, the Yuezhi dispatched their deputy king Xie with seven thousand troops to attack Ban Chao. Ban Chao's forces were few in number, and all his men were greatly alarmed. Ban Chao reassured his soldiers, saying: "Though the Yuezhi have many troops, they have traveled thousands of miles across the Tianshan Mountains to come here. They do not have supplies or logistical support—what is there to fear?" "We should merely gather the grain and hold our position firmly. When they grow hungry and desperate, they will surrender on their own—this matter will be decided within no more than a few tens of days." Xie then advanced to attack Ban Chao, but could not take the position. He also found nothing in his raids and plundering. Ban Chao judged that their supplies would soon run out, and they would inevitably seek reinforcements from Kuche. He therefore sent several hundred troops to intercept them at the eastern frontier. As expected, Xie indeed dispatched cavalry bearing silver, gold, pearls, and jade as bribes for Kuche. Ban Chao ambushed them with hidden troops, killing all of the envoys, and displayed their heads to Xie as a warning. Xie was greatly alarmed and immediately sent an envoy to apologize, requesting mercy and the chance to return alive. Ban Chao released him. From then on, the Yuezhi were greatly cowed and annually sent tribute to Han.
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明年，龜茲、姑墨、溫宿皆降，乃以超為都護，徐幹為長史。拜白霸為龜茲王，遣司馬姚光送之。超與光共脅龜茲廢其王尤利多而立白霸，使光將尤利多還詣京師。超居龜茲它乾城，徐幹屯疏勒。西域唯焉耆、危須、尉犁以前沒都護，懷二心，其餘悉定。 |
| | The following year, Kuche, Gumo, Wensu all submitted, and Ban Chao was appointed Du Hu (Protector General of the Western Regions), with Xu Gan as Zhangshi. Bai Ba was enfeoffed as King of Kuche, and Sima Yao Guang was sent to escort him there. Ban Chao and Yao Guang jointly compelled Kuche to depose its former king Youliduo and install Bai Ba as the new ruler, then sent Yao Guang with Youliduo back to the capital. Ban Chao took up residence in Tagan Cheng of Kuche, while Xu Gan was stationed at Shule. In the Western Regions, only Yanqi, Weixu, and Yuli had previously been abandoned by the Du Hu and thus harbored divided loyalties; all others were now pacified.
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六年秋，超遂發龜茲、鄯善等八國兵合七萬人，及吏士賈客千四百人討焉耆。兵到尉犁界，而遣曉說焉耆、尉犁、危須曰：「都護來者，欲鎮撫三國。即欲改過向善，宜遣大人來迎，當賞賜王侯已下，事畢即還。今賜王綵五百匹。」焉耆王廣遣其左將北鞬支奉牛酒迎超。超結鞬支曰：「汝雖匈奴侍子，而今秉國之權。都護自來，王不以時迎，皆汝罪也。」或謂超可便殺之。超曰：「非汝所及。此人權重於王，今未入其國而殺之，遂令自疑，設備守險，豈得到其城下哉！」於是賜而遣之。廣乃與大人迎超於尉犁，奉獻珍物。 |
| | In the autumn of the sixth year, Ban Chao therefore mobilized combined forces from Kuche, Shan'nan and seven other states totaling seventy thousand troops, as well as one thousand four hundred Han officials, soldiers, and merchants to campaign against Yanqi. When the troops reached the border of Yuli, Ban Chao sent envoys to inform Yanqi, Yuli, and Weixu: "The Du Hu has come not to attack but to pacify your three states. If you wish to reform and turn toward virtue, you should send a high-ranking official to greet us. We will then bestow rewards upon kings, marquises, and those below them; once the matter is settled, we shall return." "Now I grant King Yanqi five hundred bolts of brocade." King Guang of Yanqi sent his Left General Peijianzhi to meet Ban Chao with oxen and wine as offerings. Ban Chao addressed Jianzhi, saying: "Although you are a Xiongnu envoy's son, you now hold the power of your state. "The Du Hu has come in person, yet the king did not greet us on time—this is all your fault." Some advised Ban Chao that he could kill Jianzhi immediately. Ban Chao said: "That is beyond your understanding." "This man holds more power than the king. If we kill him before entering their country, it will only make them suspicious and prompt them to prepare defenses and guard the passes—how could we possibly reach their city walls!" Thus he gave Jianzhi a gift and sent him away. King Guang then personally met Ban Chao at Yuli with the elders of his court, presenting rare treasures as offerings.
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焉耆國有葦橋之險，廣乃絕橋，不欲令漢軍入國。超更從它道厲度。七月晦，到焉耆，去城二十里，正營大澤中。廣出不意，大恐，乃欲悉驅其人共入山保。焉耆左候元孟先嘗質京師，密遣使以事告超，超即斬之，示不信用。乃期大會諸國王，因揚聲當重加賞賜，於是焉耆王廣、尉犁王汎及北鞬支等三十人相率詣超。其國相腹久等十七人懼誅，皆亡入海，而危須王亦不至。坐定，超怒詰廣曰：「危須王何故不到？腹久等所緣逃亡？」遂叱吏士收廣、汎等於陳睦故城斬之，傳首京師。因縱兵鈔掠，斬首五千餘級，獲生口萬五千人，馬畜牛羊三十餘萬頭，更立元孟為焉耆王。超留焉耆半歲，慰撫之。於是西域五十餘國悉皆納質內屬焉。 |
| | Yanqi had a dangerous ford known as Weiqiao; King Guang destroyed the bridge, unwilling to allow Han troops into his country. Ban Chao instead took an alternate route and crossed with difficulty. On the last day of July, Ban Chao arrived at Yanqi, twenty li from the city, and set up camp in a large marshland. King Guang was caught by surprise and greatly alarmed; he wished to drive all his people into the mountains for refuge. Yanqi's Left Hou Yuanmeng, who had previously been held as a hostage in the capital, secretly sent an envoy to inform Ban Chao of these plans. Ban Chao immediately beheaded him, demonstrating that he would not tolerate treachery or deception. Ban Chao then arranged a grand assembly of the kings of various states, publicly announcing generous rewards and gifts. Thus King Guang of Yanqi, King Fan of Yuli, Peijianzhi, and thirty others came in succession to meet Ban Chao. The seventeen ministers of the state, fearing punishment, all fled into the desert; the king of Weixu also did not come. Once seated, Ban Chao angrily confronted King Guang: "Why has the king of Weixu failed to arrive?" "And why have Fujiu and others fled?" He then ordered his officials to seize King Guang, Fan, and others at the ruins of Chenmu's old city and behead them, sending their heads to the capital. He then let his troops loose to raid and plunder, beheading over five thousand enemy soldiers, capturing fifteen thousand prisoners, and seizing more than three hundred thousand horses, livestock, cattle, and sheep. He replaced the old king by appointing Yuanmeng as the new King of Yanqi. Ban Chao remained in Yanqi for half a year to comfort and pacify its people. At this time, more than fifty states in the Western Regions all submitted by sending hostages, thus becoming part of Han territory.
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明年，下詔曰：「往者匈奴獨擅西域，寇盜河西，永平之末，城門晝閉。先帝深愍邊萌嬰羅寇害，乃命將帥擊右地，破白山，臨蒲類，取車師，城郭諸國震慴響應，遂開西域，置都護。而焉耆王舜、舜子忠獨謀悖逆，持其險隘，覆沒都護，并及吏士。先帝重元元之命，憚兵役之興，故使軍司馬班超安集于窴以西。超遂踰蔥領，迄縣度，出入二十二年，莫不賓從。改立其王，而綏其人。不動中國，不煩戎士，得遠夷之和，同異俗之心，而致天誅，蠲宿恥，以報將士之讎。司馬法曰：『賞不踰月，欲人速睹為善之利也。』其封超為定遠侯，邑千戶。」 |
| | The following year, an imperial edict was issued: "In the past, the Xiongnu alone dominated the Western Regions, raiding the Hexi region. Toward the end of Emperor Yongping's reign, city gates were closed during the day." The late emperor deeply pitied the people on the frontier who were oppressed by bandits and enemies, so he ordered generals to attack the Right Region, defeat the Bai Mountain forces, approach Pulvulei, capture Cheshi, and the walled states all trembled in response. Thus the Western Regions were opened up, and a Protector General was established. Yet King Shun of Yanqi and his son Zhong alone plotted treachery, taking advantage of their perilous terrain to ambush and kill the Protector General along with his officials and soldiers. The late emperor valued the lives of the people, dreading the burden of military campaigns, so he dispatched Ban Chao, a military 司马 (military officer), to pacify and settle the region west of Yutian. Ban Chao thus crossed the 葱岭 (Tanggula Mountains), reaching Xiandu, and after twenty-two years of coming and going, all submitted to him. He replaced their kings and pacified the people. Without mobilizing troops from the central empire or burdening the soldiers, he secured harmony with distant foreign peoples and united hearts of different customs. He carried out divine punishment, removed long-standing disgrace, and avenged the grudge against his officers and men. The Sima Fa says: "Rewards should not be delayed beyond a month, for one wishes people to quickly see the benefits of doing good." Therefore, Ban Chao was enfeoffed as Duke Dingyuan, with a fief of a thousand households."
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超自以久在絕域，年老思土。十二年，上疏曰：「臣聞太公封齊，五世葬周，狐死首丘，代馬依風。夫周齊同在中土千里之閒，況於遠處絕域，小臣能無依風首丘之思哉？蠻夷之俗，畏壯侮老。臣超犬馬齒殲，常恐年衰，奄忽僵仆，孤魂棄捐。昔蘇武留匈奴中尚十九年，今臣幸得奉節帶金銀護西域，如自以壽終屯部，誠無所恨，然恐後世或名臣為沒西域。臣不敢望到酒泉郡，但願生入玉門關。臣老病衰困，冒死瞽言，謹遣子勇隨獻物入塞。及臣生在，令勇目見中土。」而超妹同郡曹壽妻昭亦上書請超曰： |
| | Ban Chao considered himself to have been long stationed in an isolated and distant land, and now that he was old, he missed his homeland. In the twelfth year, Ban Chao submitted a memorial saying: "I have heard that Tai Gong was enfeoffed in Qi, but his descendants were buried in Zhou. Even a fox dies with its head toward its native hill, and horses from Dai rely on their homeland's winds." The distance between Zhou and Qi is merely a thousand li within the central land, yet how much more so for one far away in an isolated region—how could I, your humble servant, be without longing to return to my native soil? The customs of the barbarians are such that they fear strength and despise old age. My teeth have long since fallen out like those of a dog or horse, and I often fear that with my advancing years, I may suddenly collapse and die, leaving my lonely spirit abandoned. In the past, Su Wu remained in the Xiongnu for nineteen years. Now I am fortunate to serve with a jade scepter and silver seal, protecting the Western Regions. If I should happen to die while stationed here, I would indeed have no regrets; yet I fear that future generations may name me as one who perished in the Western Regions. I dare not hope to reach the commandery of Jiuquan, but I only wish to enter Yumen Pass while still alive. I am old and weak with illness, yet I speak boldly at the risk of my life; I respectfully send my son Ban Yong along with tribute to enter the frontier. So that while I am still alive, he may see the central lands with his own eyes." Meanwhile, Ban Chao's sister, Zao, wife of Cao Shou from the same commandery, also submitted a memorial requesting that Ban Chao be allowed to return.
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妾同產兄西域都護定遠侯超，幸得以微功特蒙重賞，爵列通侯，位二千石。天恩殊絕，誠非小臣所當被蒙。超之始出，志捐軀命，冀立微功，以自陳效。會陳睦之變，道路隔絕，超以一身轉側絕域，曉譬諸國，因其兵眾，每有攻戰，輒為先登，身被金夷，不避死亡。賴蒙陛下神靈，且得延命沙漠，至今積三十年。骨肉生離，不復相識。所與相隨時人士眾，皆已物故。超年最長，今且七十。衰老被病，頭髮無黑，兩手不仁，耳目不聰明，扶杖乃能行。雖欲竭盡其力，以報塞天恩，迫於歲暮，犬馬齒索。蠻夷之性，悖逆侮老，而超旦暮入地，久不見代，恐開姦宄之源，生逆亂之心。而卿大夫咸懷一切，莫肯遠慮。如有卒暴，超之氣力不能從心，便為上損國家累世之功，下棄忠臣竭力之用，誠可痛也。故超萬里歸誠，自陳苦急，延頸踰望，三年於今，未蒙省錄。 |
| | My full brother, Ban Chao, the Protector General of the Western Regions and Marquis Dingyuan, has been fortunate to receive a special reward for his humble service, granted noble rank as a Tong Hou, and appointed to an official post of 2000-dan salary. The imperial grace is extraordinary; indeed, it is not something that a humble subject like me should deserve to receive. When Ban Chao first set out, he was determined to sacrifice his life in the hope of establishing some small merit and demonstrating his loyalty. Coinciding with the Chenmu incident, when communication routes were cut off, Ban Chao moved alone in an isolated land, persuading various states and relying on their troops. In every battle, he was always the first to climb the walls, clad in armor, unafraid of death. Thanks to Your Majesty's divine protection and fortune, I have managed to survive in the desert for thirty years now. My flesh-and-blood relatives were separated from me at birth, and we no longer recognize one another. The officials and people who traveled with me during those times have all passed away. Ban Chao is the eldest, now nearly seventy years old. He is aged and afflicted with illness; his hair has turned completely white, both hands are numb, his ears and eyes no longer sharp, and he can only walk by leaning on a cane. Though I wish to exhaust my strength in order to repay the imperial grace, time is pressing and my teeth are falling out like those of an old dog or horse. The nature of the barbarians is to be rebellious and disrespectful toward the elderly. As Ban Chao approaches his end each day, with no successor appointed for a long time, I fear this may open the door to treachery and breed thoughts of rebellion. Yet all the officials and ministers are preoccupied with immediate concerns, none willing to think far ahead. Should an unexpected crisis arise, Ban Chao's physical strength will no longer obey his will. This would mean not only a loss of the dynasty's long-established achievements but also the abandonment of the loyal efforts of a devoted subject—truly a regrettable outcome. Therefore, Ban Chao has traveled thousands of miles to express his sincerity and urgently state his plight. Stretching his neck in hope for over three years now, he still awaits Your Majesty's consideration.
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妾竊聞古者十五受兵，六十還之，亦有休息不任職也。緣陛下以至孝理天下，得萬國之歡心，不遺小國之臣，況超得備侯伯之位，故敢觸死為超求哀，饨超餘年。一得生還，復見闕庭，使國永無勞遠之慮，西域無倉卒之憂，超得長蒙文王葬骨之恩，子方哀老之惠。《》云：「」超有書與妾生訣，恐不復相見。妾誠傷超以壯年竭忠孝於沙漠，疲老則便捐死於曠野，誠可哀憐。如不蒙救護，超後有一旦之變，冀幸超家得蒙趙母、衛姬先請之貸。妾愚戇不知大義，觸犯忌諱。書奏，帝感其言，乃徵超還。 |
| | I have secretly heard that in ancient times, boys received military training at fifteen and were retired from service by sixty; there was also a time for rest when one could no longer serve. Since Your Majesty governs the empire with utmost filial piety, winning the hearts of all nations and not forgetting even the subjects of small states, how much more so should You consider Ban Chao, who has been honored as a marquis or feudal lord. Thus I dare to risk death in pleading for mercy on his behalf, granting him the remaining years of his life. If he may but once return alive and see the imperial court again, it will ensure that the state is forever free from the burden of distant campaigns, and the Western Regions without sudden worries. Ban Chao would then be eternally under King Wen's grace of burying bones in his homeland, and receive Zi Fang's kindness toward the aged. The Shijing says: "The people are weary; they may yet attain a modest peace. Extend grace to the central land, and pacify all quarters of the world." Ban Chao has written me a letter bidding farewell in life, fearing we may never see each other again. I am truly grieved that Ban Chao has devoted his strength and loyalty in the desert at a vigorous age, only to be abandoned to die in the wilderness when he is old and weary—truly pitiable. If Your Majesty does not grant him relief, should there be a sudden crisis in the future, I hope that Ban Chao's family may receive mercy as Zhao Mu and Wei Ji did before. I am foolish and ignorant of great principles, having transgressed taboos. When the memorial was presented, the emperor was moved by her words and summoned Ban Chao to return.
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超在西域三十一歲。十四年八月至洛陽，拜為射聲校尉。超素有匈脅疾，既至，病遂加。帝遣中黃門問疾，賜醫藥。其年九月卒，年七十一。朝廷愍惜焉，使者弔祭，贈賵甚厚。子雄嗣。 |
| | Ban Chao spent thirty-one years in the Western Regions. In August of the fourteenth year, he arrived at Luoyang and was appointed as Jiesheng Jiao Wei (Commander of the Archery Corps). Ban Chao had long suffered from a chest ailment, and upon his arrival, his illness worsened. The emperor sent an imperial official to inquire about his condition and bestowed medicine for treatment. That same year, in September he died at the age of seventy-one. The court felt deep sorrow and regret for his passing; envoys were sent to console and perform funeral rites, bestowing generous gifts of mourning and tribute. His son Ban Xiong succeeded him.
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初，超被徵，以戊己校尉任尚為都護。與超交代。尚謂超曰：「君侯在外國三十餘年，而小人猥承君後，任重慮淺，宜有以誨之。」超曰：「年老失智，任君數當大位，豈班超所能及哉！必不得已，願進愚言。塞外吏士，本非孝子順孫，皆以罪過徙補邊屯。而蠻夷懷鳥獸之心，難養易敗。今君性嚴急，水清無大魚，察政不得下和。宜蕩佚簡易，寬小過，總大綱而已。」超去後，尚私謂所親曰：「我以班君當有奇策，今所言平平耳。」尚至數年，而西域反亂，以罪被徵，如超所戒。 |
| | Initially, when Ban Chao was recalled, Ren Shang, the Wuxi Jiao Wei, was appointed as Protector General. He took over from Ban Chao in an official handover. Shang said to Ban Chao: "You, my lord, have been abroad for over thirty years, and now I, a humble man, unworthily succeed you. The responsibility is great but my wisdom shallow; you should offer me some instruction." Ban Chao said: "I am old and have lost my wits. You, Sir, are destined for great positions; how could I, Ban Chao, possibly compare?" If it is absolutely necessary, I would like to offer some foolish advice. The officials and soldiers beyond the frontier are originally not filial sons or obedient grandsons; they have all been exiled to garrison the border due to crimes. And the barbarians, with hearts like birds and beasts, are hard to pacify but easy to provoke into rebellion. Now your nature is strict and hasty; clear water holds no great fish, and an overly meticulous administration cannot achieve harmony with the people below. You should be relaxed and lenient, overlook minor faults, and focus only on the major outlines of governance." After Ban Chao left, Ren Shang privately told those close to him: "I thought General Ban would have some extraordinary strategy, but what he said was quite ordinary." After several years in office, the Western Regions rebelled and fell into chaos. Ren Shang was recalled for his failure, just as Ban Chao had warned.
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有三子。長子雄，累遷屯騎校尉。會叛羌寇三輔，詔雄將五營兵屯長安，就拜京兆尹。雄卒，子始嗣，尚清河孝王女陰城公主。主順帝之姑，貴驕淫亂，與嬖人居帷中，而召始入，使伏床下。始積怒，永建五年，遂拔刃殺主。帝大怒，腰斬始，同產皆棄巿。超少子勇。 |
| | Ban Chao had three sons. His eldest son, Ban Xiong, was repeatedly promoted and eventually became the Commander of the Tunnan Cavalry Corps (Tunqi Jiao Wei). At a time when rebel Qiang tribes attacked the Three Fu regions, an imperial decree ordered Ban Xiong to lead troops from the Five Camps and station them in Chang'an. He was then appointed as the governor of Jingzhao. After Ban Xiong died, his son Ban Shi succeeded him and married Princess Yincheng, daughter of King Qinghe Xiaowang. The princess was the aunt of Emperor Shun, and she was proud, indulgent, and corrupt. She would stay in her boudoir with her favorites while summoning Ban Shi to enter and make him lie beneath the bed. Ban Shi was deeply angered by this treatment, and in the fifth year of Yongjian, he took up a blade and killed the princess. The emperor was furious and had Ban Shi beheaded at the waist; all his full siblings were executed in public. Ban Chao's youngest son was Ban Yong.
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勇字宜僚，少有父風。永初元年，西域反叛，以勇為軍司馬。與兄雄俱出敦煌，迎都護及西域甲卒而還。因罷都護。後西域絕無漢吏十餘年。 |
| | Ban Yong, courtesy name Yiliao, from a young age showed the bearing of his father. In the first year of Yongchu, when the Western Regions rebelled, Ban Yong was appointed as a military 司马 (military officer). He left Dunhuang together with his elder brother Ban Xiong to meet the Protector General and the armored troops from the Western Regions before returning. The office of Protector General was then abolished. Later, for more than ten years the Western Regions had no Han officials at all.
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元初六年，敦煌太守曹宗遣長史索班將千餘人屯伊吾，車師前王及鄯善王皆來降班。後數月，北單于與車師後部遂共攻沒班，進擊走前王，略有北道。鄯善王急，求救於曹宗，宗因此請出兵五千人擊匈奴，報索班之恥，因復取西域。鄧太后召勇詣朝堂會議。先是公卿多以為宜閉玉門關，遂棄西域。勇上議曰：「昔孝武皇帝患匈奴彊盛，兼總百蠻，以逼障塞。於是開通西域，離其黨與，論者以為奪匈奴府藏，斷其右臂。遭王莽篡盜，徵求無猒，胡夷忿毒，遂以背叛。光武中興，未遑外事，故匈奴負彊，驅率諸國。及至永平，再攻敦煌，河西諸郡，城門晝閉。孝明皇帝深惟廟策，乃命虎臣，出征西域，故匈奴遠遁，邊境得安。及至永元，莫不內屬。會閒者羌亂，西域復絕，北虜遂遣責諸國，備其逋租，高其價直，嚴以期會。鄯善、車師皆懷憤怨，思樂事漢，其路無從。前所以時有叛者，皆由牧養失宜，還為其害故也。今曹宗徒恥於前負，欲報雪匈奴，而不尋出兵故事，未度當時之宜也。夫要功荒外，萬無一成，若兵連禍結，悔無及已。況今府藏未充，師無後繼，是示弱於遠夷，暴短於海內，臣愚以為不可許也。舊敦煌郡有營兵三百人，今宜復之，復置護西域副校尉，居於敦煌，如永元故事。又宜遣西域長史將五百人屯樓蘭，西當焉耆、龜茲徑路，南彊鄯善、于窴心膽，北扞匈奴，東近敦煌。如此誠便。」 |
| | In the sixth year of Yuanchu, Cao Zong, governor of Dunhuang, dispatched his chief clerk Suo Ban to lead over a thousand men and station them at Yuyu. The former king of Cheshi and the king of Shanshan both submitted to Suo Ban. Several months later, the Northern Chanyu and the rear forces of Cheshi jointly attacked and killed Suo Ban. They then advanced to drive out the former king of Cheshi, seizing control of the northern route. The king of Shanshan, in a state of alarm, sought aid from Cao Zong. Taking this opportunity, Cao Zong requested to dispatch five thousand troops to attack the Xiongnu and avenge Suo Ban's death, thus reclaiming the Western Regions once more. Empress Dowager Deng summoned Ban Yong to the court for a conference. Previously, many of the high officials had believed that Yumen Pass should be closed and the Western Regions abandoned. Ban Yong submitted a proposal stating: "In former times, Emperor Wu of Han was troubled by the Xiongnu's strength and their control over numerous southern tribes, which threatened our frontier defenses. Thus he opened up the Western Regions to isolate them from their allies; commentators believed this deprived the Xiongnu of their treasury and severed their right arm. However, during Wang Mang's usurpation, excessive demands were made without restraint, causing resentment among the Hu and Yi peoples, who then rebelled. When Emperor Guangwu revived the Han dynasty, he had no time for external affairs; thus the Xiongnu grew strong and led various states under their control. By the Yongping era, they launched two attacks on Dunhuang and the commanderies of Hexi, forcing city gates to close during the day. Emperor Ming deeply considered state strategy and thus ordered his valiant generals to campaign in the Western Regions, causing the Xiongnu to flee far away and allowing the frontier to enjoy peace. By the Yongyuan era, all had submitted from within. Later, when the Qiang rebels caused chaos, contact with the Western Regions was once again cut off. The northern enemy then sent envoys to demand tribute from various states, imposing heavy taxes and high prices while enforcing strict deadlines. The kings of Shanshan and Cheshi all harbored resentment, longing to serve the Han but finding no way to do so. Previously, whenever there were rebellions, it was all due to improper governance and the return of harm upon them. Now Cao Zong is merely shamed by past failures and wishes to avenge the Xiongnu, yet he does not follow precedents of sending troops; this fails to consider what was appropriate at that time. To seek merit in distant frontiers is a venture with ten thousand chances of failure and only one chance of success; if war continues and calamity ensues, regret will come too late. Moreover, now the state treasury is not yet full and there are no reserves to support the army; this would demonstrate weakness before distant barbarians and expose our shortcomings within the empire. I humbly believe it should not be approved. Previously, the commandery of Dunhuang had a garrison of 300 soldiers; now it should be restored. A Deputy Commander for the Western Regions should also be reestablished and stationed in Dunhuang as was done during the Yongyuan era. Also, a Western Regions Chief Clerk should be sent with 500 men to garrison Loulan. This would block the direct route westward toward Yanzhi and Kucha, strengthen the resolve of Shanshan and Yutian in the south, guard against the Xiongnu in the north, and remain close to Dunhuang in the east. This would truly be advantageous."
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尚書問勇曰：「今立副校尉，何以為便？又置長史屯樓蘭，利害云何？」勇對曰：「昔永平之末，始通西域，初遣中郎將居敦煌，後置副校於車師，既為胡虜節度，又禁漢人不得有所侵擾。故外夷歸心，匈奴畏威。今鄯善王尤還，漢人外孫，若匈奴得志，則尤還必死。此等雖同鳥獸，亦知避害。若出屯樓蘭，足以招附其心，愚以為便。」長樂衛尉鐔顯、廷尉綦母參、司隸校尉崔據難曰：「朝廷前所以棄西域者，以其無益於中國而費難供也。今車師已屬匈奴，鄯善不可保信，一旦反覆，班將能保北虜不為邊害乎？」勇對曰：「今中國置州牧者，以禁郡縣姦猾盜賊也。若州牧能保盜賊不起者，臣亦願以要斬保匈奴之不為邊害也。今通西域則虜埶必弱，虜埶必弱則為患微矣。孰與歸其府藏，續其斷臂哉！今置校尉以扞撫西域，設長史以招懷諸國，若棄而不立，則西域望絕。望絕之後，屈就北虜，緣邊之郡將受困害，恐河西城門必復有晝閉之儆矣。今不廓開朝廷之德，而拘屯戍之費，若北虜遂熾，豈安邊久長之策哉！」太尉屬毛軫難曰：「今若置校尉，則西域駱驛遣使，求索無猒，與之則費難供，不與則失其心。一旦為匈奴所迫，當復求救，則為役大矣。」勇對曰：「今設以西域歸匈奴，而使其恩德大漢，不為鈔盜則可矣。如其不然，則因西域租入之饒，兵馬之眾，以擾動緣邊，是為富仇讎之財，增暴夷之埶也。置校尉者，宣威布德，以繫諸國內向之心，以疑匈奴覬覦之情，而無財費耗國之慮也。且西域之人無它求索，其來入者，不過稟食而已。今若拒絕，埶歸北屬，夷虜并力以寇并、涼，則中國之費不止千億。置之誠便。」於是從勇議，復敦煌郡營兵三百人，置西域副校尉居敦煌。雖復羈縻西域，然亦未能出屯。其後匈奴果數與車師共入寇鈔，河西大被其害。 |
| | The Minister of the Interior asked Ban Yong, "Now that we are establishing a Deputy Commander, what advantage will this bring? Also, placing a Chief Clerk to garrison Loulan—what benefits and harms does this entail?" Ban Yong replied, "In the final years of the Yongping era, when contact with the Western Regions first resumed, a Central Langjiang was initially stationed in Dunhuang. Later, a Deputy Commander was placed in Cheshi; this served both to regulate the Hu and Rou peoples and to prevent Han people from committing any acts of aggression or disturbance. Thus, the foreign tribes submitted willingly, and the Xiongnu feared our power. Now Shanshan's king Youhuan is a grandson of a Han Chinese; if the Xiongnu achieve their ambitions, then Youhuan will certainly die. Such people, though similar to birds and beasts, also know how to avoid harm. If we station troops at Loulan, it will be sufficient to win their allegiance; I humbly consider this advantageous." Changle Weiwei Dan Xian, Tingwei Qimu Can, and Sili Jiaoyue Cui Ju objected: "Previously, the court abandoned the Western Regions because they were of no benefit to China and their costs could not be sustained. Now Cheshi has already submitted to the Xiongnu, and Shanshan cannot be trusted. If they suddenly turn against us, can General Ban guarantee that the northern enemy will not become a threat along our borders?" Ban Yong replied: "Now, China establishes state governors to prevent corruption and banditry in the commanderies and counties. If a state governor can guarantee that no thieves or bandits arise, I would also be willing to stake my life on the assurance that the Xiongnu will not become a border threat. Now, if we reestablish contact with the Western Regions, the enemy's strength must inevitably weaken; once their strength weakens, the threat they pose will be minimal. How does this compare to reclaiming their treasury and severing their right arm! Now, by establishing a Commander to defend and pacify the Western Regions and appointing a Chief Clerk to attract and win over various states, if we abandon these posts instead of maintaining them, then the peoples of the Western Regions will lose all hope. After their hopes are lost, they will be forced to submit to the northern enemy; border commanderies will then suffer hardships. I fear that city gates in Hexi must once again close during the day as a precaution. Now, if we do not expand and demonstrate the virtue of our court but instead fixate on the costs of garrisons, should the northern enemy grow strong, would this be a lasting strategy for securing our borders!" Taiwei Shu Mao Zhen objected: "Now, if we establish a Commander, then the Western Regions will send envoys in caravans to make endless requests. Granting their demands would be costly and unsustainable; refusing them would lose their loyalty. Once they are pressured by the Xiongnu, they will inevitably seek our aid again, which would impose a great burden on us." Ban Yong replied: "Now, if we assume the Western Regions have submitted to the Xiongnu but still maintain their loyalty and virtue toward the Han Dynasty, then at least they will not become raiders or thieves. If not, then with the wealth from their tribute and the strength of their troops and horses, they will stir up trouble along our borders. This would be enriching our enemies and strengthening the power of violent barbarians. Establishing a Commander serves to proclaim our might and spread virtue, binding the hearts of various states toward loyalty to us, while deterring the Xiongnu from coveting them. This requires no great expenditure or drain on the state's resources. Moreover, the people of the Western Regions do not make other demands; those who come to us seek nothing more than food supplies alone. Now, if we refuse them, they will inevitably submit to the north; then, the Hu and Rou forces uniting would attack Bing and Liang commanderies. In that case, China's expenses would not be limited to billions of coins. Establishing this post is truly advantageous." Thus, the court followed Ban Yong's proposal and restored 300 garrison troops in Dunhuang commandery, establishing a Deputy Commander for the Western Regions stationed at Dunhuang. Although contact with the Western Regions was nominally restored, it was still not possible to station troops there permanently. Later on, as expected, the Xiongnu repeatedly allied with Cheshi to launch raids and attacks, causing great harm in Hexi.
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延光二年夏，復以勇為西域長史，將兵五百人出屯柳中。明年正月，勇至樓蘭，以鄯善歸附，特加三綬。而龜茲王白英猶自疑未下，勇開以恩信，白英乃率姑墨、溫宿自縛詣勇降。勇因發其兵步騎萬餘人到車師前王庭，擊走匈奴伊蠡王於伊和谷，收得前部五千餘人，於是前部始復開通。還，屯田柳中。 |
| | In the summer of the second year of Yanguang, Ban Yong was again appointed Chief Clerk for the Western Regions and led 500 troops to garrison Liu Zhong. The following year, in the first month, Ban Yong arrived at Loulan; because Shanshan had submitted, he was specially awarded three silk sashes as a mark of honor. However, the king of Kucha, Baiying, still harbored doubts and had not yet submitted. Ban Yong won him over with kindness and trust, so Baiying led his people from Gumo and Wensu to surrender by tying themselves up and presenting himself before Ban Yong. Ban Yong then mobilized more than 10,000 of their infantry and cavalry to the former capital of Cheshi. There he drove away the Xiongnu Yili Wang at Yihe Valley and captured over 5,000 people from the northern part; thus, contact with the northern region was once again restored. After returning, he established a garrison and began farming operations in Liu Zhong.
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四年秋，勇發敦煌、張掖、酒泉六千騎及鄯善、疏勒、車師前部兵擊後部王軍就，大破之。首虜八千餘人，馬畜五萬餘頭。捕得軍就及匈奴持節使者，將至索班沒處斬之，以報其恥，傳首京師。永建元年，更立後部故王子加特奴為王。勇又使別校誅斬東且彌王，亦更立其種人為王，於是車師六國悉平。 |
| | In the autumn of the fourth year, Ban Yong mobilized 6,000 cavalry from Dunhuang, Zhangye, and Jiuquan as well as troops from Shanshan, Shule, and the northern Cheshi to attack King Junjiu of the southern Cheshi, decisively defeating him. They captured over 8,000 enemy soldiers and seized more than 50,000 horses and livestock. They captured Junjiu as well as a Xiongnu envoy holding imperial credentials, and led them to the site where Suo Ban had died before executing them there in retaliation for his disgrace. Their heads were sent to the capital. In the first year of Yongjian, they reestablished Jiatenu, a former prince of southern Cheshi's royal family, as king. Ban Yong also sent a subordinate commander to execute the king of Dongqiemu and replaced him with another member of his clan as ruler. Thus, all six Cheshi states were pacified.
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其冬，勇發諸國兵擊匈奴呼衍王，呼衍王亡走，其眾二萬餘人皆降。捕得單于從兄，勇使加特奴手斬之，以結車師匈奴之隙。北單于自將萬餘騎入後部，至金且谷，勇使假司馬曹俊馳救之。單于引去，俊追斬其貴人骨都侯，於是呼衍王遂徙居枯梧河上。是後車師無復虜跡，城郭皆安。唯焉耆王元孟未降。 |
| | That winter, Ban Yong mobilized troops from various states to attack the Xiongnu Huyan Wang. The Huyan Wang fled, and more than 20,000 of his followers surrendered. They captured the Chanyu's cousin and Ban Yong had Jiatenu personally execute him, in order to deepen the rift between the Cheshi and Xiongnu. The northern Chanyu personally led more than 10,00o cavalry into southern Cheshi and advanced to Jinque Valley. Ban Yong dispatched Cao Jun, a provisional Sima, to rush to their aid. The Chanyu withdrew, and Cao Jun pursued him, slaying his nobleman Gudu Hou. As a result, the Huyan Wang moved to settle along the Kulu River. After this, there were no more signs of Xiongnu raids in Cheshi and all the walled cities enjoyed peace. Only Yanzhi's king Yuanmeng had not yet surrendered.
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二年，勇上請攻元孟，於是遣敦煌太守張朗將河西四郡兵三千人配勇。因發諸國兵四萬餘人，分騎為兩道擊之。勇從南道，朗從北道，約期俱至焉耆。而朗先有罪，欲徼功自贖，遂先期至爵離關，遣司馬將兵前戰，首虜二千餘人。元孟懼誅，逆遣使乞降，張朗徑入焉耆受降而還。元孟竟不肯面縛，唯遣子詣闕貢獻。朗遂得免誅。勇以後期，徵下獄，免。後卒于家。 |
| | In the second year, Ban Yong requested permission to attack Yuanmeng, and thus the court dispatched Zhang Lang, governor of Dunhuang, with 3,000 troops from four Hexi commanderies to support Ban Yong. He then mobilized more than 40,000 soldiers from various states and divided the cavalry into two routes to attack him. Ban Yong took the southern route while Zhang Lang took the northern one, agreeing on a date to converge at Yanzhi together. However, Zhang Lang had previously committed a crime and wished to gain merit as redemption. Thus he arrived at Juoli Guan ahead of schedule and sent his Sima with troops to launch an advance attack, capturing more than 2,000 enemies. Fearing punishment, Yuanmeng sent envoys ahead to request surrender. Zhang Lang directly entered Yanzhi to accept the surrender and then returned. Yuanmeng ultimately refused to personally submit by tying himself up, sending only his son to court as tribute-bearer instead. Thus Zhang Lang was spared punishment. Ban Yong, however, arrived late and was recalled to be imprisoned before being dismissed from office. Later he died at home.
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梁慬字伯威，北地弋居人也。父諷，歷州宰。永元元年，車騎將軍竇憲出征匈奴，除諷為軍司馬，令先齎金帛使北單于，宣國威德，其歸附者萬餘人。後坐失憲意，髡輸武威，武威太守承旨殺之。竇氏既滅，和帝知其為憲所誣，徵慬，除為郎中。 |
| | Liang Jing, courtesy name Bowei, was a native of Yiju, Beidi. His father, Feng, had served as an official in various states. In the first year of Yongyuan, when General Chariot and Horse Du Xian led a campaign against the Xiongnu, Feng was appointed as an army Sima. He was ordered to precede the expedition by carrying gold and silk to the northern Chanyu, proclaiming the Han's might and virtue; over 10,000 followed him in submission. Later, Feng was punished for failing to meet Du Xian's expectations and was sentenced to 髡刑 (a form of corporal punishment) and sent to Wuzhui. The governor of Wuzhui carried out the order and executed him. After the Du family was eliminated, Emperor He learned that Feng had been falsely accused by Du Xian and summoned Liang Jing to appoint him as a Langzhong.
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| | 班梁列傳: |
慬有勇氣，常慷慨好功名。初為車騎將軍鄧鴻司馬，再遷，延平元年拜西域副校尉。慬行至河西，會西域諸國反叛，攻都護任尚於疏勒。尚上書求救，詔慬將河西四郡羌胡五千騎馳赴之，慬未至而尚已得解。會徵尚還，以騎都尉段禧為都護，西域長史趙博為騎都尉。禧、博守它乾城。它乾城小，慬以為不可固，乃譎說龜茲王白霸，欲入共保其城，白霸許之。吏人固諫，白霸不聽。慬既入，遣將急迎禧、博，合軍八九千人。龜茲吏人並叛其王，而與溫宿、姑墨數萬兵反，共圍城。慬等出戰，大破之。連兵數月，胡眾敗走，乘勝追擊，凡斬首萬餘級，獲生口數千人，駱駝畜產數萬頭，龜茲乃定。而道路尚隔，檄書不通。歲餘，朝廷憂之。公卿議者以為西域阻遠，數有背叛，吏士屯田，其費無已。永初元年，遂罷都護，遣騎都尉王弘發關中兵迎慬、禧、博及伊吾盧、柳中屯田吏士。 |
| | Liang Jing was courageous and often displayed boldness, always eager for fame and achievement. Initially serving as a Sima under General Chariot and Horse Deng Hong, he was promoted twice. In the first year of Yanping, he was appointed Deputy Commander for the Western Regions. While traveling to Hexi, Liang Jing encountered a rebellion by various states in the Western Regions who attacked Ren Shang, the Protector General, at Shule. Ren Shang submitted a memorial requesting aid, and the emperor ordered Liang Jing to lead 5,000 cavalry of Qiang and Hu from four Hexi commanderies in haste to his relief. However, before Jing arrived, Shang had already resolved the crisis. At this time, Ren Shang was recalled to court; Qu Duiwei Duan Xi was appointed Protector General and Western Regions Chief Clerk Zhao Bo as Qu Duiwei. Duan Xi and Zhao Bo defended Tagan City. Tagan was a small city, and Liang Jing considered it indefensible. He therefore deceived Kucha's king Bai Ba, claiming he wished to enter the city together for mutual protection; Bai Ba agreed. His officials and people strongly advised against it, but Bai Ba did not listen. After entering the city, Liang Jing sent his generals to quickly meet Duan Xi and Zhao Bo, uniting their forces into a combined army of 8,000 or 9,000 men. The officials and people of Kucha then rebelled against their king and joined forces with tens of thousands of troops from Wensu and Gumo to turn against them, surrounding the city together. Liang Jing led his men out to battle and decisively defeated them. After months of continuous fighting, the Hu forces were defeated and fled. Liang Jing pursued them in victory, killing over 10,00 people, capturing several thousand prisoners, and seizing tens of thousands of camels and livestock; thus Kucha was pacified. However, the roads were still cut off and official communications could not pass through. After more than a year, the court became concerned about this situation. Ministers and officials debated, believing that the Western Regions were distant and often rebellious; maintaining garrisons and farming operations there would incur endless costs. In the first year of Yongchu, they therefore abolished the position of Protector General and dispatched Qu Duiwei Wang Hong to mobilize troops from Guanzhong to escort Liang Jing, Duan Xi, Zhao Bo, as well as the garrison officials and soldiers at Yiwulu and Liu Zhong back.
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| | 班梁列傳: |
二年春，還至敦煌。會眾羌反叛，朝廷大發兵西擊之，逆詔慬留為諸軍援。慬至張掖日勒。羌諸種萬餘人攻亭候，殺略吏人。慬進兵擊，大破之，乘勝追至昭武，虜遂散走，其能脫者十二三。及至姑臧，羌大豪三百餘人詣慬降，並尉譬遣還故地，河西四郡復安。 |
| | In spring of the second year, they returned to Dunhuang. At this time, a large Qiang rebellion broke out; the court mobilized a major force to attack them in the west and issued an imperial order for Liang Jing to remain as support for the various armies. Liang Jing arrived at Zhangye Rile. Tens of thousands from various Qiang tribes attacked the watchtowers and outposts, killing officials and seizing civilians. Liang Jing advanced to attack them and decisively defeated the rebels, pursuing them in victory all the way to Zhaowu. The enemy scattered and fled; only about one or two out of ten managed to escape. When he arrived at Guzang, more than 300 prominent Qiang leaders surrendered to Liang Jing. He reassured them and sent them back to their original lands; thus the four Hexi commanderies were once again at peace.
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慬受詔當屯金城，聞羌轉寇三輔，迫近園陵，即引兵赴擊之，轉戰武功美陽關。慬臨陣被創，不顧，連破走之，盡還得所掠生口，獲馬畜財物甚眾，羌遂奔散。朝廷嘉之，數璽書勞勉，委以西方事，令為諸軍節度。 |
| | Liang Jing had been ordered to garrison Jincheng, but upon learning that the Qiang were shifting their attacks toward the Three Fu regions and approaching the imperial mausoleums, he immediately led his troops to confront them, engaging in battles as they moved through Wugong and Meiyang Guan. While on the battlefield, Liang Jing was wounded but paid no attention to it. He continued to fight and repeatedly drove back the rebels, recovering all the captives they had taken and seizing a large number of horses, livestock, and valuables; thus the Qiang scattered in panic. The court commended him highly, sending repeated imperial edicts to praise and encourage him, entrusting him with western affairs and appointing him as commander coordinating the various armies.
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三年冬，南單于與烏桓大人俱反。以大司農何熙行車騎將軍事，中郎將龐雄為副，將羽林五校營士，及發緣邊十郡兵二萬餘人，又遼東太守耿夔率將鮮卑種眾共擊之，詔慬行度遼將軍事。龐雄與耿夔共擊匈奴奧鞬日逐王，破之。單于乃自將圍中郎將耿种於美稷，連戰數月，攻之轉急，种移檄求救。明年正月，慬將八千餘人馳往赴之，至屬國故城，與匈奴左將軍、烏桓大人戰，破斬其渠帥，殺三千餘人，虜其妻子，獲財物甚眾。單于復自將七八千騎迎攻，圍慬。慬被甲奔擊，所向皆破，虜遂引還虎澤。三月，何熙軍到五原曼柏，暴疾，不能進，遣龐雄與慬及耿种步騎萬六千人攻虎澤。連營稍前，單于惶怖，遣左奧鞬日逐王詣慬乞降，慬乃大陳兵受之。單于脫帽徒跣，面縛稽顙，納質。會熙卒于師，即拜慬度遼將軍。龐雄還為大鴻臚。雄，巴郡人，有勇略，稱為名將。 |
| | In winter of the third year, the southern Chanyu joined forces with a powerful leader from Wuhuan to rebel together. The court appointed the Grand Granary Administrator He Xi to serve as acting General of Chariots and Cavalry, with Zhonglangjiang Pang Xiong as his deputy. They led troops from the Five Camps of Yulin, along with more than 20,000 soldiers mobilized from ten border commanderies, while the Taihou of Liaodong, Geng Kui, was ordered to lead a force composed of various tribes of Xianbei to join in attacking them. An imperial decree appointed Liang Jing as acting General of Duliaoling. Pang Xiong and Geng Kui jointly attacked the Xiongnu Oujian Rizhu Wang, defeating him. The Chanyu then personally led forces to besiege Zhonglangjiang Geng Zhong at Meiji, waging continuous battles for several months and intensifying the attack. Geng Zhong sent a formal request for reinforcements. In the first month of the following year, Liang Jing led more than 8,000 men to rush to his aid. Upon arriving at the old city of Shugu Guocheng, he engaged in battle with the Xiongnu Left General and a powerful leader from Wuhuan, defeating them by beheading their chieftain, killing over 3,000 enemy soldiers, capturing many wives and children, and seizing numerous valuables. The Chanyu once again personally led about seven or eight thousand cavalry to launch a counterattack, surrounding Liang Jing. Liang Jing donned his armor and rushed into battle; wherever he attacked, the enemy was defeated, so the rebels withdrew to Huzhe. In March, He Xi's army arrived at Manbo in Wuyuan when he suddenly fell seriously ill and could not advance further. He dispatched Pang Xiong together with Liang Jing and Geng Zhong to lead 16,000 infantry and cavalry troops to attack Huzhe. As the allied camps gradually advanced, the Chanyu became terrified and sent his Left Oujian Rizhu King to Liang Jing to request surrender. Liang Jing then arranged a grand military display to receive him. The Chanyu removed his hat, walked barefoot, and with his face bound in submission, knelt on the ground to prostrate himself, offering hostages. At this time, He Xi died while still on campaign; he was immediately posthumously appointed as General of Duliaoling by imperial decree. Pang Xiong returned and was appointed as the Grand Honglu. Pang Xiong was a native of Ba Jun, known for his bravery and strategic ability, and was regarded as an outstanding general.
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明年，安定、北地、上郡皆被羌寇，穀貴人流，不能自立。詔慬發邊兵迎三郡太守，使將吏人徙扶風界。慬即遣南單于兄子優孤塗奴將兵迎之。既還，慬以塗奴接其家屬有勞，輒授以羌侯印綬，坐專擅，徵下獄，抵罪。明年，校書郎馬融上書訟慬與護羌校尉龐參，有詔原刑。語在龐參傳。 |
| | The following year, the commanderies of Pingding, Beidi, and Shangjun were all attacked by Qiang rebels. Grain prices soared and people suffered greatly, unable to sustain themselves. An imperial decree ordered Liang Jing to mobilize border troops to escort the Taihou of the three commanderies, instructing them to lead their officials and civilians to relocate within Fufeng's territory. Liang Jing immediately dispatched Yougu Tunu, the nephew of the southern Chanyu, with troops to escort them. After returning, Liang Jing, because Tunu had made efforts in escorting his family members back safely, immediately awarded him the seal and sash of a Qiang marquis. However, he was later summoned to prison for acting on his own authority and was punished accordingly. The following year, Xiaoshulang Ma Rong submitted a memorial to the court defending Liang Jing and Huqiang Jiaoyue Pang Shen. An imperial decree was then issued pardoning their sentences. The details are recorded in the biography of Pang Shen.
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會叛羌寇三輔，關中盜賊起，拜慬謁者，將兵擊之。至湖縣，病卒。 |
| | At this time, rebel Qiang forces attacked the Three Fu regions, and bandits rose up in Guanzhong. Liang Jing was appointed as Yezhe and led troops to combat them. He arrived at Huxian when he fell ill and died.
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何熙字孟孫，陳國人。少有大志。永元中，為謁者。身長八尺五寸，善為威容，贊拜殿中，音動左右。和帝偉之，擢為御史中丞，歷司隸校尉、大司農。及在軍臨歿，遺言薄葬。三子：臨，瑾，阜。臨、瑾並有政能。阜俊才早沒。臨子衡，為尚書，以正直稱，坐訟李膺等下獄，免官，廢于家。 |
| | He Xi, courtesy name Mengsun, was a native of the State of Chen. From an early age, he had great ambitions. During the Yongyuan period, he served as Yezhe. He was eight feet and five inches tall, skilled in projecting an imposing presence; when he offered his formal greetings in the palace hall, his voice would stir those around him. Emperor He was greatly impressed and promoted him to Zhongcheng of the Yushi, later serving successively as Sili Jiaoyue and Dashinong. When he died while on campaign, his last words were to have a simple burial. He had three sons: Lin, Jin, and Fu. Lin and Jin both demonstrated administrative ability. Fu was a talented man who died at an early age. Lin's son Heng served as Shangshu and was known for his integrity. He was imprisoned and dismissed from office due to defending Li Ying and others, later being banished from public service and remaining at home in disgrace.
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論曰：時政平則文德用，而武略之士無所奮其力能，故漢世有發憤張膽，爭膏身於夷狄以要功名，多矣。祭肜、耿秉啟匈奴之權，班超、梁慬奮西域之略，卒能成功立名，享受爵位，薦功祖廟，勒勳于後，亦一時之志士也。 |
| | Commentary: In times of political stability, literary virtue was valued, and those skilled in military strategy had no opportunity to demonstrate their abilities. Hence, during the Han dynasty, many individuals became frustrated and bold, striving to sacrifice themselves against foreign tribes for fame and achievement. Ji Rong and Geng Bing seized the initiative against the Xiongnu, while Ban Chao and Liang Jing demonstrated strategic prowess in the Western Regions. In the end, they all achieved success and fame, received noble titles, recommended their merits to ancestral temples, and had their achievements recorded for posterity; these were indeed men of ambition in their time.
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贊曰：定遠慷慨，專功西遐。坦步蔥、雪，咫尺龍沙。慬亦抗憤，勇乃負荷。 |
| | Eulogy: Dingyuan was bold and magnanimous, achieving exclusive merit in the distant west. He strode boldly through the 葱岭 (Tongling) and snows, reaching Longsha within a short distance. Liang Jing was also filled with righteous anger; his bravery bore great responsibility.
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