| | 朱馮虞鄭... : |
朱浮字叔元，沛國蕭人也。初從光武為大司馬主簿，遷偏將軍，從破邯鄲。光武遣吳漢誅更始幽州牧苗曾，乃拜浮為大將軍幽州牧，守薊城，遂討定北邊。建武二年，封舞陽侯，食三縣。 |
| | Zhu Fu, courtesy name Shuyuan, was a native of Xiao, Pei Guo. Initially he followed Emperor Guangwu as the chief clerk (zhu bu) of the Grand Marshal, and was later promoted to the rank of General of the Left. He participated in the campaign that captured Handan. Emperor Guangwu sent Wu Han to execute Miao Ceng, the Inspector of Youzhou under Emperor Gengshi. At that time, Zhu Fu was appointed as General-in-Chief and Inspector of Youzhou, tasked with defending Jicheng, and thus pacified the northern frontier. In Jianwu year two (26 AD), he was enfeoffed as Hou of Wuyang, with a fief covering three counties.
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| | 朱馮虞鄭... : |
浮年少有才能，頗欲厲風跡，收士心，辟召州中名宿涿郡王岑之屬，以為從事，及王莽時故吏二千石，皆引置幕府，乃多發諸郡倉穀，稟贍其妻子。漁陽太守彭寵以為天下未定，師旅方起，不宜多置官屬，以損軍實，不從其令。浮性矜急自多，頗有不平，因以峻文詆之；寵亦佷強，兼負其功，嫌怨轉積。浮密奏寵遣吏迎妻而不迎其母，又受貨賄，殺害友人，多聚兵穀，意計難量。寵既積怨，聞，遂大怒，而舉兵攻浮。浮以書質責之曰： |
| | Zhu Fu was young and talented, eager to establish a reputation for virtue and attract the loyalty of scholars. He recruited prominent local figures such as Wang Cen from Zhuo Jun into his staff as assistants. He also appointed former officials who had held high-ranking positions (erqianshi) during the reign of Wang Mang, placing them in his military office. To support their families, he distributed grain stored in various commanderies' granaries. Pei Cheng, the governor of Yuyang, believed that since the empire was not yet stable and military campaigns were just beginning, it was inappropriate to appoint too many officials, as this would weaken the army's resources. He therefore refused to follow Zhu Fu's orders. Zhu Fu was proud and hasty in nature, often overestimating himself, and felt quite resentful about this matter. He thus used harsh words to denounce Pei Cheng. Pei Cheng was also stubborn and strong-willed, and he resented being overlooked for his contributions; thus, mutual resentment gradually accumulated between them. Zhu Fu secretly reported to the imperial court that Pei Cheng had sent officials to welcome his wife but not his mother, accepted bribes, killed a friend, and amassed large numbers of troops and grain—behaviors whose intentions were difficult to fathom. Having already harbored resentment, Pei Cheng, upon hearing this report, became extremely angry and raised his troops to attack Zhu Fu. Zhu Fu wrote a letter to confront him, saying:
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| | 朱馮虞鄭... : |
蓋聞知者順時而謀，愚者逆理而動，常竊悲京城太叔以不知足而無賢輔，卒自棄於鄭也。 |
| | I have always heard that the wise plan in accordance with the times, while the foolish act against reason. I often secretly lamented the case of Tai Shu of Jingcheng, who failed due to his insatiable ambition and lack of a capable advisor, ultimately abandoning himself to destruction by the state of Zheng.
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| | 朱馮虞鄭... : |
伯通以名字典郡，有佐命之功，臨人親職，愛惜倉庫，而浮秉征伐之任，欲權時救急，二者皆為國耳。即疑浮相譖，何不詣闕自陳，而為族滅之計乎？朝廷之於伯通，恩亦厚矣，委以大郡，任以威武，事有柱石之寄，情同子孫之親。匹夫媵母尚能致命一餐，豈有身帶三綬，職典大邦，而不顧恩義，生心外畔者乎！伯通與吏人語，何以為顏？行步拜起，何以為容？坐臥念之，何以為心？引鏡窺影，何施眉目？舉措建功，何以為人？惜乎棄休令之嘉名，造梟鴟之逆謀，捐傳世之慶祚，招破敗之重災，高論堯舜之道，不忍桀紂之性，生為世笑，死為愚鬼，不亦哀乎！ |
| | Boting, entrusted with the administration of a commandery by virtue of his name and status, has contributed to the founding of this dynasty. He oversees people and responsibilities, cherishing granaries and treasuries. Meanwhile, I hold the duty of military campaigns, seeking to exercise authority in times of crisis for immediate relief. Both our actions are for the sake of the state. If you suspect that I have slandered you, why not go to court and present your case in person, instead of plotting the annihilation of my entire family? The imperial court has shown you, Boting, great favor. It entrusted you with a major commandery and bestowed upon you authority and military power. You were regarded as a pillar of the state, and your relationship to the throne was akin to that between parent and child or close relatives. Even an ordinary man who accompanies his mother can risk his life for a single meal; how then could someone like you, adorned with three official seals and entrusted with the governance of a great state, disregard loyalty and righteousness to harbor rebellious thoughts against the empire? Boting, how can you face your officials and people when speaking to them? When walking or bowing in court, what kind of demeanor will you display? Even when sitting or lying down and thinking about it, how can you have a clear conscience? If you look into the mirror to see your reflection, what face do you have with such features? In every action and endeavor to achieve merit, how can you call yourself a human being? It is truly regrettable that you have abandoned a noble and commendable reputation to devise the treacherous schemes of an outcast, forsaking a legacy of blessings for future generations in favor of inviting disaster and ruin. You speak highly of the virtues of Yao and Shun yet cannot bear the nature of Jie and Zhou. To live is to be mocked by society, and to die is to become a foolish ghost—how pitiful!
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| | 朱馮虞鄭... : |
伯通與耿俠遊俱起佐命，同被國恩。俠遊謙讓，屢有降挹之言；而伯通自伐，以為功高天下。往時遼東有豕，生子白頭，異而獻之，行至河東，見群豕皆白，懷慚而還。若以子之功論於朝廷，則為遼東豕也。今乃愚妄，自比六國。六國之時，其埶各盛，廓土數千里，勝兵將百萬，故能據國相持，多歷年世。今天下幾里，列郡幾城，柰何以區區漁陽而結怨天子？此猶河濱之人捧土以塞孟津，多見其不知量也！ |
| | Boting and Geng Xiaoyou both rose together as assistants in the founding of the dynasty, sharing the same national favor. Xiaoyou was modest and often expressed words of humility and restraint; you, on the other hand, boasted about your own achievements, claiming that your merit surpassed all others in the world. In the past, there was a pig in Liaodong that gave birth to a white-headed piglet. Thinking it unusual, they presented it as a rare offering. On their way to Hedong, however, they saw a group of pigs all with white heads and returned home ashamed. If your achievements were presented at court for evaluation, you would be like that pig from Liaodong. Now you are foolish and arrogant, comparing yourself to the Six States. During the time of the Six States, each state was powerful in its own right, controlling thousands of square li of territory and fielding hundreds of thousands of troops. That is why they were able to hold their positions and resist for many years across generations. Now, how large is the empire in terms of territory? How many commanderies and cities does it contain? Why would you, with merely a small region like Yuyang, provoke resentment against the Son of Heaven? This is like people by the river picking up dirt to block the Mengjin ford; it only shows how little you understand your own limitations!
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| | 朱馮虞鄭... : |
方今天下適定，海內願安，士無賢不肖，皆樂立名於世。而伯通獨中風狂走，自捐盛時，內聽驕婦之失計，外信讒邪之諛言，長為群后惡法，永為功臣鑒戒，豈不誤哉！定海內者無私讎，勿以前事自誤，願留意顧老母幼弟。凡舉事無為親厚者所痛，而為見讎者所快。 |
| | Now that the empire has just been pacified and all under heaven desire peace, scholars—whether virtuous or not—all wish to establish a name for themselves in this world. Yet you alone, Boting, have suddenly gone mad like a man struck by wind, throwing away your prime. Internally, you heeded the ill-advised counsel of an arrogant wife; externally, you believed flattery from sycophants and villains. You will forever serve as a bad example for future rulers and a cautionary tale for meritorious officials—how mistaken this is! He who brings peace to the realm harbors no private grudges. Do not let past events mislead you; I hope you will think carefully about your aging mother and younger brother. Generally, when undertaking any action, one should not cause pain to those who are close and dear, but rather bring satisfaction to those with whom one has a grudge.
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| | 朱馮虞鄭... : |
寵得書愈怒，攻浮轉急。明年，涿郡太守張豐亦舉兵反。 |
| | Pei Cheng became even more enraged upon receiving the letter and intensified his attacks on Zhu Fu. The following year, Zhang Feng, governor of Zhuo Jun, also raised troops in rebellion.
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| | 朱馮虞鄭... : |
時二郡畔戾，北州憂恐，浮以為天子必自將兵討之，而但遣游擊將軍鄧隆陰助浮。浮懷懼，以為帝怠於敵，不能救之，乃上疏曰：「昔楚宋列國，俱為諸侯，莊王以宋執其使，遂有投袂之師。魏公子顧朋友之要，觸冒強秦之鋒。夫楚魏非有分職匡正之大義也，莊王但為爭強而發忿，公子以一言而立信耳。今彭寵反畔，張豐逆節，以為陛下必棄捐它事，以時滅之。既歷時月，寂寞無音。從圍城而不救，放逆虜而不討，臣誠惑之。昔高祖聖武，天下既定，猶身自征伐，未嘗寧居。陛下雖興大業，海內未集，而獨逸豫，不顧北垂，百姓遑遑，無所繫心，三河、冀州，曷足以傳後哉！今秋稼已孰，復為漁陽所掠。張豐狂悖，姦黨日增，連年拒守，吏士疲勞，甲冑生蟣蝨，弓弩不得弛，上下燋心，相望救護，仰希陛下生活之恩。」詔報曰：「往年赤眉跋扈長安，吾策其無穀必東，果來歸降。今度此反虜，埶無久全，其中必有內相斬者。今軍資未充，故須後麥耳。」浮城中糧盡，人相食。會上谷太守耿況遣騎來救浮，浮乃得遁走。南至良鄉，其兵長反遮之，浮恐不得脫，乃下馬刺殺其妻，僅以身免，城降於寵。尚書令侯霸奏浮敗亂幽州，構成寵罪，徒勞軍師，不能死節，罪當伏誅。帝不忍，以浮代賈復為執金吾，徙封父城侯。後豐、寵並自敗。 |
| | At that time, the two commanderies were in rebellion and disorder, causing anxiety throughout the northern regions. Zhu Fu believed the Son of Heaven would personally lead an army to suppress them, but instead only sent General Deng Long, a general of the Light Cavalry Division, to secretly assist him. Zhu Fu felt fearful and thought the emperor was neglecting the enemy, unable to come to his aid. He therefore submitted a memorial stating: "In ancient times, Chu and Song were rival states, both feudal lords. When King Zhuang of Chu detained an envoy from Song, he immediately launched a campaign in response. The Marquis of Wei valued the importance of friendship and risked confronting the powerful army of Qin. Chu and Wei did not have a grand moral obligation to correct each other's wrongs. King Zhuang of Chu merely acted out of anger over the desire for dominance, while the Marquis of Wei established his credibility through a single word of commitment. Now that Pei Cheng has rebelled and Zhang Feng has betrayed the state, I believe Your Majesty will surely abandon all other matters to deal with them promptly. Yet after many months have passed, there is still no news or response. To leave a besieged city without relief and to ignore rebellious bandits without punishment—this truly puzzles me, Your Majesty. In the past, Emperor Gaozu was a sage and martial ruler; even after pacifying the empire, he still personally led military campaigns and never remained at ease. Although Your Majesty has established a great cause, the empire is not yet unified. Yet you alone indulge in leisure and neglect the northern frontier; the people are anxious and have no one to rely on. How can the Three Rivers region and Ji Zhou possibly serve as legacies for future generations? Now, this autumn's harvest has already ripened, yet it will be seized once again by Yuyang. Zhang Feng is reckless and defiant, with his band of villains growing daily. For years we have resisted and defended, exhausting our officials and soldiers; armor and weapons are infested with lice, bows and crossbows cannot be relaxed for rest, and both superiors and subordinates are consumed by anxiety, eagerly awaiting Your Majesty's mercy to save us from this plight." The imperial edict replied: "In previous years, the Red Eyebrows were rampant in Chang'an. I predicted that they would head east due to lack of provisions and indeed they came to surrender. Now, judging these rebellious bandits, their strength cannot last long; there will certainly be internal strife and mutual slaughter among them. At present, our military supplies are not yet sufficient, so we must wait for the harvest of next year's wheat." The city under Zhu Fu's command ran out of grain, and people began to eat each other. Just then, Geng Kuang, the governor of Shanggu, sent cavalry to rescue Zhu Fu, who thus managed to escape. He fled south to Liangxiang, but his own troops turned against him and blocked his path. Fearing he would not escape, Zhu Fu dismounted and killed his wife with a spear, barely managing to save himself as the city surrendered to Pei Cheng. Shangshu Ling Hou Ba reported that Zhu Fu had caused chaos in Youzhou, inciting Pei Cheng's rebellion. He had wasted military resources and failed to die a loyal death; his crime deserved capital punishment. The emperor, however, could not bear it and instead appointed Zhu Fu as the new Zhijinwu in place of Jia Fu, relocating him to be enfeoffed as Hou (Lord) of Fucheng. Later, Zhang Feng and Pei Cheng both suffered defeat at their own hands.
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| | 朱馮虞鄭... : |
帝以二千石長吏多不勝任，時有纖微之過者，必見斥罷，交易紛擾，百姓不寧。六年有日食之異，浮因上疏曰：「臣聞日者眾陽之所宗，君上之位也。凡居官治民，據郡典縣，皆為陽為上，為尊為長。若陽上不明，尊長不足，則干動三光，垂示王者。五典紀國家之政，鴻範別災異之文，皆宣明天道，以徵來事者也。陛下哀龟海內新離禍毒，保宥生人，使得蘇息。而今牧人之吏，多未稱職，小違理實，輒見斥罷，豈不粲然黑白分明哉！然以堯舜之盛，猶加三考，大漢之興，亦累功效，吏皆積久，養老於官，至名子孫，因為氏姓。當時吏職，何能悉理；論議之徒，豈不諠譁。蓋以為天地之功不可倉卒，艱難之業當累日也。而閒者守宰數見換易，迎新相代，疲勞道路。尋其視事日淺，未足昭見其職，既加嚴切，人不自保，各相顧望，無自安之心。有司或因睚眥以騁私怨，苟求長短，求媚上意。二千石及長吏迫於舉劾，懼於刺譏，故爭飾詐偽，以希虛譽。斯皆群陽騷動，日月失行之應。夫物暴長者必夭折，功卒成者必亟壞，如摧長久之業，而造速成之功，非陛下之福也。天下非一時之用也，海內非一旦之功也。願陛下遊意於經年之外，望化於一世之後。天下幸甚。」帝下其議，群臣多同於浮，自是牧守易代頗簡。 |
| | The emperor found that many high-ranking officials (erqianshi and senior magistrates) were incompetent, and whenever they committed minor faults, they would inevitably be dismissed or censured. This frequent turnover caused unrest among the people and disturbed public stability. In the sixth year, there was an unusual solar eclipse. Taking advantage of this event, Zhu Fu submitted a memorial saying: "I have heard that the sun is the source and leader of all yang forces; it symbolizes the position of the Son of Heaven. All who hold office and govern the people, or administer a commandery or county, are considered yang in nature—superior, respected, and senior. If the yang forces above are unclear or if those who hold positions of respect and authority prove inadequate, then this will disturb the three luminaries (sun, moon, stars) and serve as a warning to the Son of Heaven. The Five Classics record the governance of the state, while Hongfan distinguishes texts on calamities and anomalies. All serve to clarify the principles of Heaven's will and foretell future events. Your Majesty, out of compassion for all under heaven who have recently suffered from calamities and misfortunes, has protected and forgiven the people so that they may recover and find respite. Yet now, many officials who govern the people are not up to their duties. When they commit minor violations of law or fact, they are immediately dismissed or censured—how clearly this distinguishes right from wrong and black from white! Yet even during the flourishing reigns of Yao and Shun, officials were still assessed over three terms. In the rise of the great Han dynasty as well, officials accumulated merit through years of service; they remained in office for long periods, retiring only when old, with their names passed down to descendants who thus became surnames. At that time, how could every official be expected to manage all affairs perfectly? Those who engage in debate and criticism—would they not create noise and clamor? It is because the achievements of Heaven and Earth cannot be accomplished hastily; arduous endeavors must accumulate over time. Yet recently, magistrates have frequently been replaced, with new officials constantly arriving to take their place, exhausting the people along the roads. When these officials assume office for only a short time, their performance is not yet evident. Yet with strict demands imposed upon them, people cannot feel secure in their positions and look to each other uncertainly, lacking any sense of stability or confidence. Some officials take advantage of minor grievances to vent personal grudges, seeking petty faults and trying to please the emperor by doing so. High-ranking officials (erqianshi) and senior magistrates, pressured by accusations and fearful of censure, therefore compete to fabricate falsehoods in order to seek empty praise. All these are signs that the yang forces have become agitated and the sun and moon have lost their proper courses. Things that grow too quickly are bound to wither early; achievements made in haste will inevitably collapse soon. To destroy long-established endeavors and pursue quick success is not a blessing for Your Majesty. The empire cannot be governed through short-term measures, nor can the realm be stabilized in a single day's effort. I hope Your Majesty will consider matters beyond one year and look forward to transformation across generations. This would be a great blessing for the empire." The emperor submitted Zhu Fu's proposal to court discussion, and many ministers agreed with him. From then on, the frequent replacement of magistrates was somewhat reduced.
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| | 朱馮虞鄭... : |
舊制，州牧奏二千石長吏不任位者，事皆先下三公，三公遣掾史案驗，然後黜退。帝時用明察，不復委任三府，而權歸刺舉之吏。浮復上疏曰：「陛下清明履約，率禮無違，自宗室諸王、外家后親，皆奉遵繩墨，無黨埶之名。至或乘牛車，齊於編人。斯固法令整齊，下無作威者也。求之於事，宜以和平，而災異猶見者，而豈徒然？天道信誠，不可不察。竊見陛下疾往者上威不行，下專國命，即位以來，不用舊典，信刺舉之官，黜鼎輔之任，至於有所劾奏，便加免退，覆案不關三府，罪譴不蒙澄察。陛下以使者為腹心，而使者以從事為耳目，是為尚書之平，決於百石之吏，故群下苛刻，各自為能。兼以私情容長，憎愛在職，皆競張空虛，以要時利，故有罪者心不厭服，無咎者坐被空文，不可經盛衰，貽後王也。夫事積久則吏自重。吏安則人自靜。傳曰：『五年再閏，天道乃備。』夫以天地之靈，猶五載以成其化，況人道哉！臣浮愚戇，不勝惓惓，願陛下留心千里之任，省察偏言之奏。」 |
| | According to the old system, when a state inspector (zhou mu) submitted a report accusing an erqianshi or senior official of being unfit for office, the matter was first referred to the Three Excellencies. The Three Excellencies would then dispatch their clerks and officials to investigate before deciding on dismissal. At that time, the emperor favored strict scrutiny and no longer entrusted authority to the Three Offices; instead, power was given to officials responsible for investigation and impeachment. Zhu Fu again submitted a memorial, saying: "Your Majesty governs with clarity and integrity, adhering strictly to the rites without deviation. Even members of the imperial clan, princes, and relatives by marriage all abide by established rules and have not acquired reputations for factionalism or power struggles. Some even ride in ox-drawn carts, living at the same level as ordinary commoners. This is indeed due to well-ordered laws and regulations, with no one below overstepping their authority or acting tyrannically. Yet despite this peace in governance, signs of calamities and anomalies still appear—could these be without cause? The will of Heaven is indeed truthful; it cannot be ignored or left unexamined. I secretly observe that Your Majesty is dissatisfied with the past situation in which authority from above was ineffective and power was monopolized by those below. Since ascending the throne, you have not followed established precedents but instead placed trust in officials responsible for impeachment while diminishing the roles of senior ministers. As a result, whenever an official is impeached, they are immediately removed or dismissed without referring the case to the Three Offices, and their guilt or innocence remains unexamined and unresolved. Your Majesty regards envoys as your trusted inner circle, while these envoys in turn rely on their assistants for information. Thus, decisions that should be made by the Shangshu (Ministry of Works) are instead determined by low-ranking officials with only a hundred stones' rank. For this reason, subordinates have become harsh and severe, each vying to show off their own abilities. Moreover, these officials have allowed personal feelings to influence their judgments; they show favoritism and hatred in office. All compete to fabricate false accusations for immediate gain. Therefore, those who are guilty do not feel satisfied with the punishment, while those without fault suffer unjust charges. Such practices cannot endure through times of prosperity or decline and will leave a bad legacy for future kings. When matters are allowed to develop over time, officials naturally come to respect their duties. When officials feel secure, the people will naturally remain peaceful. The Classic says: "After five years with two intercalary months, Heaven's order is complete." Even the spirits of Heaven and Earth require five years to accomplish their transformations; how much more so for human affairs! I, Zhu Fu, am foolish and blunt, but I cannot help but express my earnest concerns. I hope Your Majesty will pay attention to the responsibilities of officials in distant regions and carefully examine reports that may be biased or one-sided."
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| | 朱馮虞鄭... : |
七年，轉太僕。浮又以國學既興，宜廣博士之選，乃上書曰：「夫太學者，禮義之宮，教化所由興也。陛下尊敬先聖，垂意古典，宮室未飾，干戈未休，而先建太學，進立橫舍，比日車駕親臨觀饗，將以弘時雍之化，顯勉進之功也。尋博士之官，為天下宗師，使孔聖之言傳而不絕。舊事，策試博士，必廣求詳選，爰自畿夏，延及四方，是以博舉明經，唯賢是登，學者精勵，遠近同慕。伏聞詔書更試五人，唯取見在洛陽城者。臣恐自今以往，將有所失。求之密邇，容或未盡，而四方之學，無所勸樂。凡策試之本，貴得其真，非有期會，不及遠方也。又諸所徵試，皆私自發遣，非有傷費煩擾於事也。語曰：『中國失禮，求之於野。』臣浮幸得與講圖讖，故敢越職。」帝然之。 |
| | In the seventh year, he was transferred to serve as Tai Pu. Zhu Fu once again, considering that the national academy had already been revived, proposed to broaden the selection of doctors (scholars), and submitted a memorial stating: "The Taixue is the palace of rites and righteousness; it is through this institution that education and moral influence are fostered. Your Majesty reveres the ancient sages and pays attention to classical traditions. Even though palace buildings remain unfinished and wars have not yet ceased, you first established the Taixue, built lecture halls, and on several occasions personally visited in your chariot for inspections and banquets. This was intended to promote a harmonious era of virtue and highlight the achievements of encouragement and advancement. The position of doctor (bo shi) is regarded as the supreme teacher for all under heaven, entrusted with ensuring that Confucius' teachings are passed down without interruption. In the past, when selecting and testing doctors, it was necessary to widely seek out and carefully choose candidates from both the capital region and as far as distant regions. Thus, those well-versed in classics were broadly selected based on merit alone, encouraging scholars to strive for excellence and inspiring admiration among people near and far. I have heard that recent imperial edicts ordered the selection of only five candidates, but limited to those currently residing in Luoyang City. I fear that from now on, something will be lost. Seeking candidates only in the immediate vicinity may not fully capture talent, and thus scholars from distant regions would have no incentive or joy. The fundamental purpose of selecting and testing candidates is to value genuine talent, not limited by time constraints or the exclusion of distant regions. Moreover, those summoned for examination are privately dispatched; this does not cause any significant expense or disturbance to the affairs of the state. The saying goes: "When rites are lost in the central lands, they may be found among the common people." I, Zhu Fu, have been fortunate enough to participate in discussions on diagrams and prophecies; thus I dare to speak beyond my official duties. The emperor agreed with this.
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二十年，代竇融為大司空。二十二年，坐賣弄國恩免。二十五年，徙封新息侯。 |
| | In the twentieth year, he succeeded Dou Rong as Da Sikong. In the twenty-second year, he was dismissed for abusing national favors and privileges. In the twenty-fifth year, he was relocated and enfeoffed as Hou of Xinxi.
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帝以浮陵轢同列，每銜之，惜其功能，不忍加罪。永平中，有人單辭告浮事者，顯宗大怒，賜浮死。長水校尉樊儵言於帝曰：「唐堯大聖，兆人獲所，尚優遊四凶之獄，厭服海內之心，使天下咸知，然後殛罰。浮事雖昭明，而未達人聽，宜下廷尉，章著其事。」帝亦悔之。 |
| | The emperor resented Zhu Fu for his arrogance toward his peers, but valued his abilities and accomplishments, thus refraining from punishing him. During the Yongping period, there was a person who submitted an isolated accusation against Zhu Fu; Emperor Ming became greatly enraged and bestowed death upon Zhu Fu. Changshui Jiao Wei Fan Shu said to the emperor: "Tang Yao, a great sage, when dealing with the four evildoers among his people, still deliberated carefully over their cases, satisfying and pacifying the hearts of all under heaven. He made it known throughout the land before finally punishing them. "Although Zhu Fu's case is clear, it has not yet been made known to the people; he should be handed over to Tingwei so that his matter may be publicly and clearly addressed." The emperor also regretted this.
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論曰：吳起與田文論功，文不及者三，朱買臣難公孫弘十策，弘不得其一，終之田文相魏，公孫宰漢，誠知宰相自有體也。故曾子曰：「君子所貴乎道者三，籩豆之事則有司存。」而光武、明帝躬好吏事，亦以課覈三公，其人或失而其禮稍薄，至有誅斥詰辱之累。任職責過，一至於此，追感賈生之論，不亦篤乎！朱浮譏諷苛察欲速之弊，然矣，焉得長者之言哉！ |
| | Commentary says: When Wu Qi debated achievements with Tian Wen, Wen fell short in three aspects; when Zhu Maichen challenged Gong Sun Hong on ten strategies, Hong could not respond to even one. In the end, Tian Wen became prime minister of Wei and Gong Sun Hong served as chancellor of Han—this indeed shows that chancellors have their own standards and ways. Therefore, Zengzi said: "There are three things in the Way that gentlemen value highly; as for matters like 笾 and 簠, there are officials who handle them." Emperor Guangwu and Emperor Ming personally took great interest in administrative affairs, and also used examinations to assess the Three Excellencies. As a result, some officials were wrongly accused or treated with less courtesy, leading to repeated instances of punishment, reprimand, and humiliation. To hold officials so strictly in their duties that it reaches this extent—reflecting on Jia Sheng's arguments, is not the concern profound indeed! Zhu Fu criticized the drawbacks of excessive scrutiny and hasty judgment; this was indeed true, but how could such words come from a man of virtue!
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馮魴字孝孫，南陽湖陽人也。其先魏之支別，食菜馮城，因以氏焉。秦滅魏，遷于湖陽，為郡族姓。 |
| | Feng Fang, courtesy name Xiaosun, was a native of Huyang, Nanyang. His ancestors were a branch of the Wei clan; they held fiefs in Feng Cheng and thus took their surname from there. After the Qin destroyed Wei, they were relocated to Huyang and became a prominent family of the region.
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王莽末，四方潰畔，魴乃聚賓客，招豪桀，作營鹗，以待所歸。是時湖陽大姓虞都尉反城稱兵，先與同縣申屠季有仇，而殺其兄，謀滅季族。季亡歸魴，魴將季欲還其營，道逢都尉從弟長卿來，欲執季。魴叱長卿曰：「我與季雖無素故，士窮相歸，要當以死任之，卿為何言？」遂與俱歸。季謝曰：「蒙恩得全，死無以為報恩，有牛馬財物，願悉獻之。」魴作色曰：「吾老親弱弟皆賊城中，今日相與，尚無所顧，何云財物乎？」季慚不敢復言。魴自是為縣邑所敬信，故能據營自固。 |
| | At the end of Wang Mang's reign, when chaos and rebellion spread throughout the land, Feng Fang gathered his guests and recruited heroes and outstanding individuals to establish a military camp, awaiting whom they would pledge their allegiance. At that time, the influential local family of Yu Duyi in Huyang rebelled by taking control of a city and raising arms. He had previously been at enmity with his fellow native Shen Tu Ji, killing his elder brother and plotting to exterminate the entire Ji clan. Ji fled and took refuge with Feng Fang, who then led Ji back to his camp. On the way, they encountered Changqing, a cousin of Yu Duyi, who came intending to arrest Ji. Feng Fang scolded Changqing, saying: "Although I and Ji have no long-standing relationship, in times of hardship scholars seek refuge with one another. I must take full responsibility for his safety at the cost of my life if necessary. What are you implying, sir?" He then returned home together with Ji. Ji thanked him, saying: "I have been saved by your kindness; I cannot repay this debt with my life. I have oxen, horses, and possessions, which I wish to offer entirely to you." Feng Fang turned stern and said: "My elderly parents and younger brothers are all within the rebel city. Today, we have joined together in this cause without any hesitation; how can you speak of material possessions?" Ji felt ashamed and dared not say anything more. From then on, Feng Fang was respected and trusted by the people of the county; thus he was able to hold his military camp firmly and defend it.
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時天下未定，而四方之士擁兵矯稱者甚眾，唯魴自守，兼有方略。光武聞而嘉之，建武三年，徵詣行在所，見於雲臺，拜虞令。為政敢殺伐，以威信稱。遷郟令。後車駕西征隗囂，潁川盜賊群起，郟賊延褒等眾三千餘人，攻圍縣舍，魴率吏士七十許人，力戰連日，弩矢盡，城陷，魴乃遁去。帝聞郡國反，即馳赴潁川，魴詣行在所。帝案行鬥處，知魴力戰，乃嘉之曰：「此健令也。所當討擊，勿拘州郡。」褒等聞帝至，皆自髡剔，負鈇鑕，將其眾請罪。帝且赦之，使魴轉降諸聚落，縣中平定，詔乃悉以褒等還魴誅之。魴責讓以行軍法，皆叩頭曰：「今日受誅，死無所恨。」魴曰：「汝知悔過伏罪，今一切相赦，聽各反農桑，為令作耳目。」皆稱萬歲。是時每有盜賊，並為褒等所發，無敢動者，縣界清靜。 |
| | At that time, when the world was still unsettled, many scholars from all directions raised armies and falsely claimed authority; only Feng Fang remained self-disciplined while also possessing strategic acumen. Emperor Guangwu heard of this and commended him. In the third year of Jianwu, he summoned Feng Fang to his temporary residence, where they met at Yuntai, and appointed him as magistratus of Yu. In governance, he dared to enforce strict punishments, earning a reputation for authority and credibility. He was later transferred to serve as magistratus of Jia. Later, when the imperial army marched west to campaign against Wei Qiao, bandits rose up in Yingchuan. In Jia, rebels led by Yan Bao and others with more than 3,000 followers attacked and surrounded the county office. Feng Fang led about seventy officials and soldiers into fierce combat for several days. When their arrows ran out and the city walls were breached, Feng Fang fled. Upon hearing of rebellions in various commanderies and states, the emperor immediately rushed to Yingchuan, where Feng Fang presented himself at the imperial camp. The emperor inspected the battlefield and learned of Feng Fang's fierce resistance. He then praised him, saying: "This is a valiant county official." "Those who should be pursued and attacked must not be restricted by commandery or state boundaries." Upon hearing of the emperor's arrival, Yan Bao and his followers all shaved their heads, carried axes and hoes on their backs, and led their men to request punishment. The emperor was about to pardon them, but ordered Feng Fang to convert the remaining rebel settlements. After peace was restored in the county, an imperial decree was issued, returning Yan Bao and others to Feng Fang for execution. Feng Fang reprimanded them according to military law, and they all kowtowed, saying: "To be executed today is death without regret." Feng Fang said: "You know you have repented and submitted to punishment. Now, I shall pardon all of you; go back to farming and sericulture, and serve as my eyes and ears." They all cried out: "Ten thousand years!" At that time, whenever there were bandits or thieves, they would all be exposed by Yan Bao and his men; no one dared to act out, and the county remained peaceful.
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十三年，遷魏郡太守。二十七年，以高第入代趙憙為太僕。中元元年，從東封岱宗，行衛尉事。還，代張純為司空，賜爵關內侯。二年，帝崩，使魴持節起原陵，更封楊邑鄉侯，食三百五十戶。永平四年，坐考隴西太守鄧融，聽任姦吏，策免，削爵土。六年，顯宗幸魯，復行衛尉事。七年，代陰嵩為執金吾。 |
| | In the thirteenth year, he was promoted to governor of Wei Jun. In the twenty-seventh year, due to his high official evaluation, he entered the capital and succeeded Zhao Xi as Tai Pu. In the first year of Zhongyuan, he accompanied the emperor on an eastern sacrifice at Mount Tai and served in charge of duties as acting Weiwei. Upon returning, he succeeded Zhang Chun as Sikong and was granted the title of Guannei Hou. In the second year, after the emperor's death, Feng Fang was sent with a symbol of imperial authority to oversee the construction of the original mausoleum. He was later re-enfeoffed as Xiang Hou of Yangyi and granted 350 households for his stipend. In the fourth year of Yongping, he was censured and dismissed for having investigated Tai Shou Deng Rong of Longxi but allowing corrupt officials to act unchecked. His title and fief were stripped away. In the sixth year, Emperor Ming visited Lu, and Feng Fang once again served in charge of duties as Weiwei. In the seventh year, he succeeded Yin Song as Zhijinwu.
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魴性矜嚴公正，在位數進忠言，多見納用。十四年，詔復爵土。明年，東巡郡國，留魴宿衛南宮。建初三年，以老病乞身，肅宗許之。其冬為五更，詔魴朝賀，就列侯位。元和二年，卒，時年八十六。 |
| | Feng Fang was by nature dignified, strict, and just; while in office, he frequently offered loyal advice, much of which was accepted and implemented. In the fourteenth year, an imperial edict restored his title and fief. The following year, during a tour of commanderies and states in the east, the emperor left Feng Fang to serve as guardian at Nangong Palace. In the third year of Jianchu, due to old age and illness, he requested retirement, which Emperor Su Zong granted. That winter, he served as Wugeng (an honorary title for elder scholars). The emperor issued an edict summoning Feng Fang to attend court celebrations and take his place among the marquises. In the second year of Yuanhe, he died at the age of eighty-six.
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子柱嗣，尚顯宗女獲嘉長公主，少為侍中，以恭肅謙約稱，位至將作大匠。柱卒，子定嗣，官至羽林中郎將。定卒，無子，國除。 |
| | His son Zhu succeeded him, marrying Princess Huojia Changgong, the daughter of Emperor Ming. Young Zhu served as Shizhong and was praised for his respectful demeanor and modesty; he eventually rose to the position of Jiangzuo Dajiang. After Zhu's death, his son Ding succeeded him and held office up to the rank of Yulin Zhonglangjiang. Ding died without a male heir; thus, the fief was abolished.
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定弟石，襲母公主封獲嘉侯，亦為侍中，稍遷衛尉。能取悅當世，為安帝所寵。帝嘗幸其府，留飲十許日，賜駁犀具劍、佩刀、紫艾綬、玉玦各一，拜子世為黃門侍郎，世弟二人皆郎中。自永初兵荒，王侯租秩多不充，於是特詔以它縣租稅足石，令如舊限，歲入穀三萬斛，錢四萬。遷光祿勳，遂代楊震為太尉。及北鄉侯立，遷太傅，與太尉東萊劉喜參錄尚書事。順帝既立，石與喜皆以阿黨閻顯、江京等策免，復為衛尉。卒，子代嗣。代卒，弟承嗣，為步兵校尉。 |
| | Shi, Ding's younger brother, inherited his mother the princess's title as Hou of Huojia and also served as Shizhong. He gradually advanced to serve as Weiwei. He was skilled at gaining favor in his time and was favored by Emperor An. The emperor once visited his residence and stayed for about ten days, bestowing upon him a rhinoceros-horned sword set, a ceremonial dagger, one purple silk sash with embroidered patterns, and one jade ring. He also appointed Shi's son Shi as Huangmen Shilang, while two of Shi's younger brothers were made Langzhong. Since the warfare and chaos of Yongchu, many marquises' tax revenues were insufficient. Therefore, a special imperial edict was issued to supplement Shi's income with taxes from other counties so that he could receive as before: 30,000 hu of grain and 40,000 coins annually. He was promoted to Guanglu Xun and eventually succeeded Yang Zhen as Taiwei. When Beixiang Hou ascended the throne, he was promoted to Taifu and joined Taiwei Donglai Liu Xi in jointly overseeing Shangshu affairs. After Emperor Shun took the throne, Shi and Liu Xi were both dismissed for their collusion with Yan Xian, Jiang Jing, and others. Shi was later reinstated as Weiwei again. He died, and his son Dai succeeded him. After Dai's death, his younger brother Cheng succeeded him and served as Bubing Jiao Wei.
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石弟珖，和帝時詔封楊邑侯，亦以石寵，官至城門校尉。卒，子肅嗣，為黃門侍郎。 |
| | Shi's younger brother Guang was enfeoffed by imperial decree as Hou of Yangyi during Emperor He's reign. Also benefiting from Shi's favor, he held office up to Chengmen Jiao Wei. After his death, his son Su succeeded him and served as Huangmen Shilang.
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虞延字子大，陳留東昏人也。延初生，其上有物若一匹練，遂上升天，占者以為吉。及長，長八尺六寸，要帶十圍，力能扛鼎。少為戶牖亭長。時王莽貴人魏氏賓客放從，延率吏卒突入其家捕之，以此見怨，故位不升。性敦朴，不拘小節，又無鄉曲之譽。王莽末，天下大亂，延常嬰甲冑，擁衛親族，扞禦鈔盜，賴其全者甚眾。延從女弟年在孩乳，其母不能活之，棄於溝中，延聞其號聲，哀而收之，養至成人。建武初，仕執金吾府，除細陽令。每至歲時伏臘，輒休遣徒繫，各使歸家，並感其恩德，應期而還。有囚於家被病，自載詣獄，既至而死，延率掾吏，殯于門外，百姓感悅之。 |
| | Yu Yan, courtesy name Zida, was a native of Donghun, Chenliu. When Yu Yan was first born, there appeared above him an object resembling a bolt of white silk, which then ascended to the heavens. Diviners regarded this as an auspicious omen. When he grew up, he was eight chi six cun tall (approximately 207 cm), had a waist circumference of ten wei (a measure indicating great girth), and possessed the strength to lift a tripod. As a young man, he served as Tingzhang of Huyou. At that time, a guest of Wei Shi, a noblewoman of Wang Mang, was acting recklessly. Yu Yan led officials and soldiers to suddenly enter the man's home and arrest him. Because of this, he incurred resentment and thus did not receive promotion in rank. He was by nature sincere and simple-minded, untroubled by minor matters, and had no reputation for local popularity or favoritism. At the end of Wang Mang's reign, when chaos spread throughout the land, Yu Yan often donned armor and weapons to protect his relatives, defending against bandits and robbers. Many people relied on him for their safety. One of Yu Yan's younger sisters, still an infant, was abandoned by her mother in a ditch when she could not care for the child. Hearing the baby's wails, Yu Yan felt sorrow and rescued her, raising her until she reached adulthood. In the early years of Jianwu, he served in the Zhijinwu office and was appointed as magistratus of Xi Yang. Every year during the winter and summer festivals, he would release detained prisoners on leave to return home. Moved by his kindness and virtue, they all returned as scheduled. One prisoner, who was ill at home, carried himself to the prison. Upon arrival, he died. Yu Yan led his subordinates in giving him a burial outside the gate; the people were deeply moved and pleased by this.
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後去官還鄉里，太守富宗聞延名，召署功曹。宗性奢靡，車服器物，多不中節。延諫曰：「昔晏嬰輔齊，鹿裘不完，季文子相魯，妾不衣帛，以約失之者鮮矣。」宗不悅，延即辭退。居有頃，宗果以侈從被誅，臨當伏刑，攬涕而歎曰：「恨不用功曹虞延之諫！」光武聞而奇之。二十年東巡，路過小黃，高帝母昭靈后園陵在焉，時延為部督郵，詔呼引見，問園陵之事。延進止從容，占拜可觀，其陵樹株櫱，皆諳其數，俎豆犧牲，頗曉其禮。帝善之，敕延從駕到魯。還經封丘城門，門下小，不容羽蓋，帝怒，使撻侍御史，延因下見引咎，以為罪在督郵。言辭激揚，有感帝意，乃制誥曰：「以陳留督郵虞延故，貰御史罪。」延從送車駕西盡郡界，賜錢及劍帶佩刀還郡，於是聲名遂振。 |
| | Later, after leaving office and returning to his hometown, Tai Shou Fu Zong heard of Yu Yan's reputation and summoned him to serve as Gongcao. Fu Zong was by nature extravagant; his carriages, clothing, and possessions were often excessive and inappropriate in their display. Yu Yan advised: "In the past, Yan Ying assisted the state of Qi while wearing a worn deer hide coat. Ji Wenzzi served as prime minister in Lu but his concubines did not wear silk. Those who lost their positions due to frugality are few indeed." Fu Zong was displeased, and Yu Yan immediately resigned from office. After some time, Fu Zong was indeed executed for his extravagance. As he stood before the execution, tears streaming down his face, he sighed and said: "I regret not following Gongcao Yu Yan's advice!" Emperor Guangwu heard of this and was greatly impressed. In the twentieth year, Emperor Guangwu toured the east and passed through Xiaohuang. The mausoleum of Lady Zhaoling, mother of Emperor Gaozu, was located there. At that time Yu Yan served as Du You in the region; he was summoned for an audience by imperial decree and asked about matters concerning the mausoleum. Yu Yan moved with composure and grace, his manner of bowing and paying homage was impressive. He could accurately state the number of trees and saplings in the mausoleum grounds, and he had a good understanding of the rituals involving offerings and sacrifices. The emperor was pleased with this and ordered Yu Yan to accompany him on his journey to Lu. On the return trip, passing through Fengqiu's city gate, the archway was too low to accommodate the emperor's ornate canopy. The emperor became angry and ordered that the imperial censor be flogged. Yu Yan then stepped forward and took responsibility for the fault, stating that it was his duty as Du You to have ensured proper arrangements. His impassioned words moved the emperor, who then issued an edict: "Because of Yu Yan, the Du You of Chenliu, the censor shall be pardoned." Yu Yan accompanied the imperial procession westward to the boundary of his prefecture, and was bestowed with money, a sword, sash, and ceremonial dagger before returning. From then on, his reputation spread widely.
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| | 朱馮虞鄭... : |
二十三年，司徒玉況辟焉。時元正朝賀，帝望而識延，遣小黃門馳問之，即日召拜公車令。明年，遷洛陽令。是時陰氏有客馬成者，常為姦盜，延收考之。陰氏屢請，獲一書輒加篣二百。信陽侯陰就乃訴帝，譖延多所冤枉。帝乃臨御道之館，親錄囚徒。延陳其獄狀可論者在東，無理者居西。成乃回欲趨東，延前執之，謂曰：「爾人之巨蠹，久依城社，不畏熏燒。今考實未竟，宜當盡法！」成大呼稱枉，陛戟郎以戟刺延，叱使置之。帝知延不私，謂成曰：「汝犯王法，身自取之！」呵使速去。後數日伏誅。於是外戚斂手，莫敢干法。在縣三年，遷南陽太守。 |
| | In the twenty-third year, Yu Yan was appointed by Siku Du Kuang. At that time during the New Year's court ceremony, Emperor Guangwu spotted and recognized Yu Yan. He sent a junior palace official to inquire about him and summoned him on the same day to serve as Gongche Ling. The following year, he was promoted to magistratus of Luoyang. At that time, there was a man named Ma Cheng from the family of Yin Shi who often committed crimes as a thief. Yu Yan arrested and interrogated him. The Yin clan repeatedly petitioned for his release, but each time they submitted a request, Yu Yan added another two hundred bamboo canes to the punishment. Marquis of Xinyang Yin Jiu then petitioned the emperor and slandered Yu Yan for wrongfully accusing many people. The emperor thus visited the roadside pavilion in person to review the prisoners. Yu Yan arranged those whose cases were justifiable and could be discussed on the east side, while placing those without merit or reason on the west side. Ma Cheng then turned and tried to move toward the east, but Yu Yan stepped forward and seized him, saying: "You are a great pest to society. For long you have relied on city walls and ancestral shrines without fearing punishment or destruction. Now that the investigation is not yet complete, you should be dealt with according to law!" Ma Cheng loudly cried out that he was wronged. A guard wielding a halberd struck Yu Yan and shouted at him to release the prisoner. The emperor knew that Yu Yan had acted impartially, and said to Ma Cheng: "You have violated royal law; this is a consequence of your own actions!" He ordered him to be quickly removed. Several days later, Ma Cheng was executed. From then on, the imperial relatives refrained from acting recklessly and dared not violate the law. After serving in the county for three years, he was promoted to Tai Shou of Nanyang.
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| | 朱馮虞鄭... : |
永平初，有新野功曹鄧衍，以外戚小侯每豫朝會，而容姿趨步，有出於眾，顯宗目之，顧左右曰：「朕之儀貌，豈若此人！」特賜輿馬衣服。延以衍雖有容儀而無實行，未嘗加禮。帝既異之，乃詔衍令自稱南陽功曹詣闕。既到，拜郎中，遷玄武司馬。衍在職不服父喪，帝聞之，乃歎曰：「『知人則哲，惟帝難之。』信哉斯言！」衍慚而退，由是以延為明。 |
| | In the early years of Yongping, there was a Gongcao named Deng Yan from Xinye. As a minor marquis related to the imperial family, he often attended court assemblies. His appearance and manner of walking were superior to others; Emperor Xianzong noticed him and said to those around: "Could my own bearing be as impressive as this man's?" The emperor specially bestowed a carriage, horse, clothing, and garments upon him. Yu Yan considered that although Deng Yan had an impressive appearance, he lacked genuine virtue or conduct; therefore, Yu Yan never treated him with special courtesy. The emperor, impressed by this, summoned Deng Yan and ordered him to present himself at court as the Gongcao of Nanyang. After arriving, he was appointed as Langzhong, later promoted to Sima of Xuanwu. While in office, Deng Yan did not observe mourning rites for his father's death. Upon hearing this, the emperor sighed and said: "As it is written, 'To know people well is wisdom; even a sage finds this difficult.'" Indeed true are these words!" Deng Yan was shamed and withdrew, and from then on regarded Yu Yan as a man of discernment.
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| | 朱馮虞鄭... : |
三年，徵代趙憙為太尉；八年，代范遷為司徒。歷位二府，十餘年無異政績。會楚王英謀反，陰氏欲中傷之，使人私以楚謀告延，延以英藩戚至親，不然其言，又欲辟幽州從事公孫弘，以弘交通楚王而止，並不奏聞。及英事發覺，詔書切讓，延遂自殺。家至清貧，子孫不免寒餧。 |
| | In the third year, he was summoned to replace Zhao Xi as Taiwei; In the eighth year, he replaced Fan Qian as Siku. During his tenure in both the Taiwei and Siku offices, over a decade passed without any remarkable achievements or policies. At the time, Prince Chu Ying plotted rebellion. The Yin clan wanted to harm Yu Yan and sent someone secretly to inform him of Prince Chu's conspiracy. Yu Yan considered Prince Chu a close relative by marriage and did not believe their words. He also intended to appoint Gong Sun Hong as an official in Youzhou but stopped when he learned that Gong Sun Hong had connections with Prince Chu, and neither matter was reported to the throne. When Prince Chu's plot was discovered, an imperial decree sharply rebuked Yu Yan, who then committed suicide. His family was extremely poor and destitute; his descendants could not escape from cold and hunger.
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| | 朱馮虞鄭... : |
延從曾孫放，字子仲。少為太尉楊震門徒，及震被讒自殺，順帝初，放詣闕追訟震罪，由是知名。桓帝時為尚書，以議誅大將軍梁冀功封都亭侯，後為司空，坐水災免。性疾惡宦官，遂為所陷，靈帝初，與長樂少府李膺等俱以黨事誅。 |
| | Yu Yan's great-grandson, Yu Fang, courtesy name Zizhong. As a youth, he was a disciple of Taiwei Yang Zhen. When Yang Zhen was falsely accused and committed suicide, at the beginning of Emperor Shun's reign, Yu Fang went to court to appeal on Yang Zhen's behalf, thus gaining recognition for his reputation. During Emperor Huan's reign he served as Shangshu, and was enfeoffed as Hou of Duting for his role in the debate that led to the execution of Grand General Liang Ji. Later serving as Sikong, he was dismissed from office due to a water disaster. Yu Fang intensely detested eunuchs and was thus framed by them. In the early years of Emperor Ling's reign, he was executed along with Li Ying, the Shaofu of Changle, among others in the so-called "Party Affair."
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| | 朱馮虞鄭... : |
鄭弘字巨君，會稽山陰人也。從祖吉，宣帝時為西域都護。弘少為鄉嗇夫，太守第五倫行春，見而深奇之，召署督郵，舉孝廉。 |
| | Zheng Hong, courtesy name Jujun, was a native of Shanyin, Kuaiji. His great-granduncle Zheng Ji served as Protector General of the Western Regions during Emperor Xuan's reign. Zheng Hong began his career as a local official in charge of village affairs. When Tai Shou Diwu Lun toured the countryside during spring, he saw Zheng Hong and was deeply impressed by him. He summoned him to serve as Du You and recommended him for the title of Xiu Lian (Filial and Upright).
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| | 朱馮虞鄭... : |
弘師同郡河東太守焦貺。楚王英謀反發覺，以疏引貺，貺被收捕，疾病於道亡沒，妻子閉繫詔獄，掠考連年。諸生故人懼相連及，皆改變名姓，以逃其禍，弘獨髡頭負鈇鑕，詣闕上章，為貺訟罪。顯宗覺悟，即赦其家屬，弘躬送貺喪及妻子還鄉里，由是顯名。 |
| | Zheng Hong studied under Jiao Kuang, Tai Shou of Hedong from his native commandery. When Prince Chu Ying's plot of rebellion was discovered, Zheng Hong was implicated and linked to Jiao Kuang. Jiao Kuang was arrested; he fell ill on the way and died in custody. His wife and children were imprisoned in an imperial prison and subjected to years of interrogation and torture. Former students and friends of Jiao Kuang feared being implicated in the case, so they all changed their names and surnames to escape disaster. Alone among them, Zheng Hong shaved his head, carried an axe and a chisel, and went to court with a memorial to appeal on behalf of Jiao Kuang for clemency. Emperor Xianzong was moved by this and immediately released Jiao Kuang's family. Zheng Hong personally escorted the remains of Jiao Kuang as well as his wife and children back to their hometown, thereby gaining a reputation for virtue and renown.
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| | 朱馮虞鄭... : |
拜為騶令，政有仁惠，民稱蘇息。遷淮陰太守。四遷，建初，為尚書令。舊制，尚書郎限滿補縣長令史丞尉。弘奏以為臺職雖尊，而酬賞甚薄，至於開選，多無樂者，請使郎補千石，令史為長。帝從其議。弘前後所陳有補益王政者，皆著之南宮，以為故事。 |
| | He was appointed magistratus of Zou, where he governed with benevolence and compassion; the people praised him as a source of relief and renewal. He was later promoted to Tai Shou of Huaiyin. After four successive promotions, during the Jianchu era he became Shangshu Ling. According to established regulations, when a Shangshu Lang completed their term of service, they would be appointed as magistrates or clerks in county offices. Zheng Hong submitted a memorial stating that although the position of Shangshu was prestigious, the rewards were very meager. As a result, when appointments were made, few were willing to accept them. He proposed that Shangshu Lang should be appointed as officials with salaries equivalent to 1000 dou, and that clerks (ling shi) should serve as magistrates. The emperor accepted his proposal. All of Zheng Hong's proposals that contributed to the improvement of royal governance were recorded in Nan Gong and used as precedents for future reference.
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| | 朱馮虞鄭... : |
出為平原相，徵拜侍中。建初八年，代鄭眾為大司農。舊交阯七郡貢獻轉運，皆從東冶汎海而至，風波艱阻，沈溺相係。弘奏開零陵、桂陽嶠道，於是夷通，至今遂為常路。在職二年，所息省三億萬計。時歲天下遭旱，邊方有警，人食不足，而帑藏殷積。弘又奏宜省貢獻，減徭費，以利飢人。帝順其議。 |
| | He was later appointed Xiang of Pingyuan, then recalled to serve as Shizhong. In the eighth year of Jianchu, he replaced Zheng Zhong as Dasi Nong. Previously, the tribute and transport from seven commanderies of Jiaozhi all passed through Dongye by sea. However, due to dangerous winds and waves, many ships were wrecked or sank along the way. Zheng Hong submitted a proposal to open mountain passes through Lingling and Guiyang, thereby establishing an overland route. This became the standard passage ever since. During his two years in office, he saved or reduced expenditures by hundreds of millions. At that time, the empire suffered from drought; there were alarms along the frontiers and food shortages for the people, yet the imperial treasury remained abundant. Zheng Hong again submitted a memorial recommending that tribute be reduced and corvée labor expenses cut in order to benefit the starving people. The emperor followed his proposal.
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| | 朱馮虞鄭... : |
元和元年，代鄧彪為太尉。時舉將第五倫為司空，班次在下，每正朔朝見，弘曲躬而自卑。帝問知其故，遂聽置雲母屏風，分隔其閒，由此以為故事。在位四年，奏尚書張林阿附侍中竇憲，而素行臧穢，又上洛陽令楊光，憲之賓客，在官貪殘，並不宜處位。書奏，吏與光故舊，因以告之。光報憲，憲奏弘大臣漏泄密事。帝詰讓弘，收上印綬。弘自詣廷尉，詔敕出之，因乞骸骨歸，未許。病篤，上書陳謝，并言竇憲之短。帝省章，遣醫占弘病，比至已卒。臨歿悉還賜物，敕妻子褐巾布衣素棺殯殮，以還鄉里。 |
| | In the first year of Yuanhe, he replaced Deng Biao as Taiwei. At that time, Diwu Lun was appointed Sikong and ranked lower than Zheng Hong. Each New Year's Day during court audiences, Zheng Hong would bow deeply to show humility. The emperor learned of the reason and thus allowed a yunmu screen to be placed between them, separating their positions. From then on, this became an established practice. During his four years in office, Zheng Hong submitted a memorial accusing Shangshu Zhang Lin of flattery and favoritism toward Shizhong Dou Xian, while also noting that Zhang had long been known for corrupt conduct. He further accused Yang Guang, magistratus of Luoyang and a guest of Dou Xian's, of being greedy and cruel in office; both were deemed unfit to hold their positions. After the memorial was submitted, an official who had been a friend of Yang Guang informed him about it. Yang Guang reported this to Dou Xian, who in turn submitted a memorial accusing Zheng Hong of being an official of high rank who had leaked confidential matters. The emperor reprimanded Zheng Hong and confiscated his seals and insignia. Zheng Hong went in person to the Tingwei Office, but was ordered by imperial decree to be released. He then requested permission to retire on grounds of old age and poor health, but his request was not granted. As he fell seriously ill, Zheng Hong submitted a letter expressing gratitude while also exposing Dou Xian's faults and misconduct. The emperor read the memorial, sent physicians to examine Zheng Hong's condition, but by the time they arrived, he had already died. On his deathbed, he returned all imperial gifts; the emperor ordered that his wife and children be dressed in plain hemp clothing and that he be buried in a simple coffin, returning him to his hometown for burial.
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| | 朱馮虞鄭... : |
周章字次叔，南陽隨人也。初仕郡為功曹。時大將軍竇憲免，封冠軍侯就國。章從太守行春到冠軍，太守猶欲謁之。章進諫曰：「今日公行春，豈可越儀私交。且憲椒房之親，埶傾王室，而退就藩國，禍福難量。明府剖符大臣，千里重任，舉止進退，其可輕乎？」太守不聽，遂便升車。章前拔佩刀絕馬鞅，於是乃止。及憲被誅，公卿以下多以交關得罪，太守幸免，以此重章。舉孝廉，六遷為五官中郎將。延平元年，為光祿勳。 |
| | Zhou Zhang, courtesy name Cishu, was a native of Sui, Nanyang. He first served in the commandery as Gongcao. At that time, Grand General Dou Xian had been dismissed from office and was enfeoffed with the title of Hou of Guanjun before returning to his fief. Zhou Zhang accompanied Tai Shou on a spring tour to Guanjun, and the Tai Shou still wished to pay him a visit. Zhou Zhang advised: "Today you are touring the countryside; how can you violate official protocol for private visits?" Moreover, Dou Xian is a close relative of the imperial family and wields great influence over the royal court. Now that he has been dismissed and returned to his fief, it is uncertain whether this will bring fortune or misfortune. As a high-ranking official entrusted with authority over thousands of miles, your every action and decision must be carefully considered—how can you afford to act lightly?" The Tai Shou did not listen and proceeded to board his carriage. Zhou Zhang stepped forward, drew his sword, and cut the reins of the horse-drawn carriage; thus, the Tai Shou stopped. When Dou Xian was executed, many officials at the level of Gongqing and below were punished for their connections with him. Fortunately, the Tai Shou escaped censure, and thus he greatly valued Zhou Zhang's actions. Zhou Zhang was recommended as Xiu Lian and, after six successive promotions, became Wuguan Zhonglang Jiang. In the first year of Yanping, he served as Guanglu Xun.
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| | 朱馮虞鄭... : |
永初元年，代魏霸為太常。其冬，代尹勤為司空。是時中常侍鄭眾、蔡倫等皆秉埶豫政，章數進直言。初，和帝崩，鄧太后以皇子勝有痼疾，不可奉承宗廟，貪殤帝孩抱，養為己子，故立之，以勝為平原王。及殤帝崩，群臣以勝疾非痼，意咸歸之，太后以前既不立，恐後為怨，乃立和帝兄清河孝王子祐，是為安帝。章以眾心不附，遂密謀閉宮門，誅車騎將軍鄧騭兄弟及鄭眾、蔡倫，劫尚書，廢太后於南宮，封帝為遠國王，而立平原王。事覺，勝策免，章自殺。家無餘財，諸子易衣而出，并日而食。 |
| | In the first year of Yongchu, he replaced Wei Ba as Taichang. That winter, he replaced Yin Qin as Sikong. At that time, Zhongchangshi Zheng Zhong and Cai Lun all held power and influenced political affairs; Zhou Zhang repeatedly offered forthright advice. Initially, after Emperor He's death, Empress Dowager Deng considered that Crown Prince Sheng had a chronic illness and was thus unfit to serve as the heir to the ancestral temple. Preferring the infant 殇帝 (Shangdi), she raised him as her own son; therefore, he was enthroned, while Sheng was made King of Pingyuan. After Shangdi's death, the ministers considered that Prince Sheng's illness was not chronic and thus favored him as heir. The empress dowager, however, fearing resentment for having previously refused to name him emperor, instead selected You, son of King You of Qinghe, who was Emperor He's brother; this ruler became Emperor An. Zhou Zhang, sensing that the people's hearts did not support him, secretly plotted to close the palace gates and execute General of the Chariot and Cavalry Deng Zhong, his brothers, Zheng Zhong, and Cai Lun. He intended to seize control of the Shangshu Office, depose Empress Dowager Deng in Nan Gong, declare Emperor An as King of Yuan Guo, and instead install Prince Pingyuan on the throne. When the plot was discovered, Sheng was stripped of his position, and Zhou Zhang committed suicide. His family had no remaining wealth; his sons took turns wearing clothes when they went out and shared one meal a day.
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| | 朱馮虞鄭... : |
論曰：孔子稱「可與立，未可與權」。權也者，反常者也。將從反常之事，必資非常之會，使夫舉無違妄，志行名全。周章身非負圖之託，德乏萬夫之望，主無絕天之舋，地有既安之埶，而創慮於難圖，希功於理絕，不已悖乎！如令君器易以下議，即斗筲必能叨天業，狂夫豎臣亦自奮矣。孟軻有言曰：「有伊尹之心則可，無伊尹之心則篡矣。」於戲，方來之人戒之哉！ |
| | Commentary: Confucius said, "He may be entrusted with upholding principles, but not yet with the exercise of authority." Authority is something that deviates from conventional norms. To engage in extraordinary actions, one must rely on exceptional circumstances; thus, all deeds should be free from violation or recklessness, ensuring that one's aspirations and reputation remain intact. Zhou Zhang himself was not entrusted with a divine mandate, nor did his virtue command the respect of ten thousand men. The emperor had committed no grave offense against heaven, and the realm was already at peace; yet Zhou Zhang devised plans for an impossible task and sought merit in matters beyond reason—was this not utterly misguided! If one were to follow the opinions of petty officials like Jun Qi Yi, then even a man with shallow capacity could claim heavenly mandate, and any reckless commoner or lowly servant would feel emboldened to act. Mencius once said: "Only with the heart of Yi Yin is it acceptable; without such a heart, it becomes usurpation." Alas! Let those who come after take this as a warning!
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| | 朱馮虞鄭... : |
贊曰：朱定北州，激成寵尤。魴用降帑，延感歸囚。鄭、竇怨偶，代相為仇。周章反道，小智大謀。 |
| | Eulogy: Zhu Ding of the northern states, provoked and indulged in favoritism. Fang used surrendered funds; Yan moved to inspire the return of prisoners. Zheng and Dou, bound by mutual resentment, became successive enemies. Zhou Zhang defied the right path, employing petty wisdom in grand schemes.
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