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世祖光武皇帝讳秀字文叔，南阳人，高祖九世孙也。更始元年，遣世祖行大司马事，北渡河，镇慰州郡，进至邯郸，故赵缪王子林以卜者王郎为天子，都邯郸，二年，进围邯郸，拔其城，诛王郎，收文书，得吏民与郎交关谤毁者数千章，世祖为不省，会诸将烧之。曰：令反侧子自安。 |
| | The Emperor Guangwu, posthumous title Shizu, given name Xiu, courtesy name Wenshu, was a native of Nanyang and the ninth-generation descendant of Emperor Gaozu. In the first year of the Gengshi era, the emperor dispatched Emperor Guangwu to serve as acting Taishimaren, ordering him to cross the Yellow River northward and pacify the commanderies and states. Advancing to Handan, he encountered Wang Lang, a fortune-teller who had been proclaimed Son of Heaven by Liu Lin, a descendant of the former Zhao ruler Miuwang, whose capital was at Handan. In the second year of Gengshi, Emperor Guangwu advanced to besiege Handan, captured the city, executed Wang Lang, and seized official documents. Among them were thousands of records detailing officials and commoners who had communicated with or slandered Wang Lang. Emperor Guangwu ordered these not to be examined but instead gathered all the generals together and burned them. He said: "Let those who are uncertain find peace of mind."
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更始立世祖为萧王，世祖击铜马，高湖，重连，悉破降之，封其渠帅为列侯，降者犹不自安，世祖敕令各归营勒兵，乃自乘轻骑案行部陈。降者更相语曰：萧王推赤心置人腹中，安得不投死乎。由是皆服。 |
| | Gengshi conferred the title of Xiao Wang upon Emperor Guangwu. Emperor Guangwu attacked the Tongma, Gaohu, and Chonglian forces, defeating and subduing them all. He enfeoffed their chieftains as Lie Hou (Marquises). However, even those who surrendered remained uneasy. Emperor Guangwu then issued orders for each group to return to their camps and prepare their troops, while he personally rode a light horse to inspect the formations of his forces. The surrendered soldiers said to one another: "Prince Xiao places a sincere heart in our bellies; how could we not be willing to die for him?" Because of this, they all became convinced and loyal.
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即皇帝位，封功臣皆为列侯，大国四县，馀各有差。博士丁恭等议曰：古帝王封诸侯不过百里，强干弱枝，所以为治也。今封诸将四县，不合法制。帝曰：古之亡国者皆以无道，未尝闻封功臣地多而灭亡者也。乃遣谒者即授印绶。 |
| | He ascended the imperial throne and enfeoffed his meritorious subjects as Lie Hou (Marquise). The most distinguished received fiefs of four counties, while others were granted varying degrees of reward. Doctor Ding Gong and others argued: "In ancient times, emperors granted fiefs to feudal lords no more than a hundred li in size. Strengthening the central authority while weakening the branches was how order was maintained." "Now, granting four counties as fiefs to the generals is not in accordance with legal regulations." The emperor said: "Ancient states perished because their rulers were tyrannical; I have never heard of a state that fell due to its meritorious ministers receiving large fiefs." He then dispatched an official envoy to bestow the seals and sashes immediately.
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建武十三年。诏曰：往年已敕郡国，异味不得有所献御，今犹未止，非徒有豫养导择之劳，至乃烦扰道上，疲费过所，其令大官勿复受，明敕宣下，若远方口实可以荐宗庙，自如旧制，时兵革既息，天下少事，文书调役，务从简寡，至乃十存一焉。 |
| | The thirteenth year of the Jianwu era. An edict was issued: "Last year, I had already ordered the commanderies and states that delicacies of unusual flavor must not be presented to the court. Yet this practice has still not ceased. It is not only a burden on those who prepare and select these items in advance but also causes disturbances along the roads and excessive expenses for travelers. Therefore, I order the Grand Steward to cease accepting such offerings. Clearly issue instructions below that if rare delicacies from distant regions are suitable for offering at ancestral temples, they may still follow the old regulations. Now that wars have ceased and there is little business in the empire, official documents and labor conscriptions must be kept as simple and minimal as possible—so much so that only one-tenth of previous levels remain."
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十七年，幸章陵，修园庙祠旧宅观田庐，置酒作乐赏赐焉。时宗室诸母因酣悦相与语曰：文叔少时谨信，与人不款曲，唯直柔耳，今乃能如此，帝闻之。大笑曰：吾治天下亦欲以柔道行之。 |
| | In the seventeenth year, he visited Zhangling, restored ancestral temples and old residences for worship, inspected farmland huts, held a banquet with music and dancing, and bestowed rewards. At that time, members of the imperial clan and their mothers, while enjoying the festivities, said to one another: "Wenshu was cautious and trustworthy in his youth; he did not engage people with warmth or intimacy, only showing straightforwardness and gentleness. Now look at how capable he has become." The emperor heard these remarks. He laughed heartily and said: "I, too, wish to govern the empire with a gentle approach."
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二十一年，鄯善王、车师王等十六国遣子入侍，愿请都护，帝以中国初定，未遑外事，乃还其侍子，厚加赏赐。 |
| | In the twenty-first year, kings of sixteen states including Shanshan Wang and Cheshi Wang sent their sons to serve at court, expressing a wish for a protector. The emperor, considering that China had just been stabilized and external affairs could not yet be attended to, returned these serving sons but bestowed generous rewards upon them.
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中元二年，帝崩。遗诏曰：朕无益百姓，皆如孝文皇帝制度，务从约省，初，帝在兵间久，厌武事，且知天下疲耗，思乐息肩，自陇、蜀平后，非儆急未尝复言军旅，皇太子尝问攻战之事。帝曰：昔衞灵公问陈，孔子不对，此非尔所及也。每旦视朝，日晏乃罢，数引公卿郎将讲经论治，夜分乃寐，皇太子见帝勤劳不怠。承间谏曰：陛下有禹、汤之明，而失黄、老养生之福，愿颐养精神，优游自宁。帝曰：我自乐此，不为疲也。虽身济大业，兢兢如不及，故能明慎政体，总揽权纲，量时度力，举无过事，退功臣而进文吏，戢弓矢而散马牛，虽道未方古，斯亦止戈之武焉。 |
| | In the second year of the Zhongyuan era, the emperor passed away. The emperor's last will stated: "I have brought no benefit to the people. All matters should follow the system of Emperor Xiaowen, and everything must be done with frugality and simplicity." Initially, having spent a long time in military campaigns, the emperor grew weary of warfare and understood that the empire was exhausted from prolonged conflict; he desired peace and relief for his subjects. After the pacification of Long and Shu, he never again spoke of military matters unless there was an urgent threat. Once, the Crown Prince asked about strategies for attack and war. The emperor said: "In ancient times, Duke Ling of Wei once asked about military formations, but Confucius did not respond. This is beyond your comprehension." Every morning, he held court sessions and did not dismiss them until late in the day. He frequently summoned high officials, ministers, and military commanders to discuss classics and governance, often continuing into the night before retiring to sleep. The Crown Prince saw how diligently and tirelessly his father worked. Taking the opportunity, he advised: "Your Majesty possesses the wisdom of Yu and Tang but lacks the blessings of Huang-Lao's cultivation for longevity. I hope you will preserve your vitality and find peace in leisure." The emperor said: "I myself enjoy this, and it does not weary me." Although he had personally achieved great accomplishments, he remained cautious and vigilant as if always falling short. Thus, he was able to clearly understand the principles of governance and firmly grasp the reins of power. He measured circumstances and strength carefully, ensuring that all actions were appropriate and without excess. He retired meritorious generals while promoting civil officials; he stored away weapons and dispersed horses and oxen. Though his methods did not match those of antiquity, this was still a form of martial virtue aimed at ending warfare.
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孝明皇帝讳庄，世祖第四子也。永平二年春，宗祀光武皇帝于明堂，礼毕，登灵台。诏曰：朕以暗陋奉承大业，亲执圭璧，恭祀天地，仰惟先帝受命中兴，拨乱反正，以宁天下，封泰山，建明堂，立辟雍，起灵台，恢弘大道，被之八极，而胤子无成、康之质，羣臣无吕、旦之谋，盥洗进爵，踧踖惟惭，其令天下自殊死以下，谋反大逆，皆赦除之，冬，幸辟雍，初行养老礼。诏曰：三老李躬，年耆学明，五更桓荣，授朕尚书。诗曰：无德不报，其赐荣爵关内侯，食邑五千户，三老五更，皆以二千石禄养终厥身，其赐天下三老酒人一石，肉四十斤，有司其存耆耋，恤幼孤，惠鳏寡，称朕意焉。 |
| | Emperor Xiaoming, given name Zhuang, was the fourth son of Emperor Guangwu. In spring of the second year of Yongping, ancestral rites were performed for Emperor Guangwu in the Mingtang Hall. After completing the ceremony, he ascended the Ling Tai (Observation Platform). An edict was issued: "I, being obscure and unlearned, have inherited this great undertaking. I personally held the jade ritual objects to solemnly worship Heaven and Earth. Reflecting upon my late father's mandate from Heaven to restore order, quell chaos, and bring peace to the empire—he ascended Mount Tai, built the Mingtang Hall, established the Biyong Academy, constructed the Lingtai Platform, and expanded the great Way of virtue across all directions—yet I, his son, lack the qualities of Cheng or Kang [ancient virtuous rulers], and my ministers lack the wisdom of Lu or Dan [famous ancient statesmen]. As I washed my hands and presented wine in ritual, I felt only embarrassment. Therefore, let it be known that throughout the empire, all criminals from those sentenced to death by strangulation downward who committed treasonous acts or great rebellion shall now be pardoned and released." In winter, he visited the Biyong Academy for the first time to perform the ceremony honoring elders. An edict was issued: "The Three Elders, Li Gong, is of advanced age and profound learning; the Five Elders, Huan Rong, taught me the Book of Documents." The poem says: "No virtue goes unrewarded." Therefore, he was granted the title of Guannei Hou (Inner Marquis) and a fief of 5000 households. The Three Elders and Five Elders were both given salaries equivalent to those of officials ranked at Erqianshi for their entire lives. To all Three Elders in the empire, one dan of wine and forty jin of meat was granted. Officials must care for the elderly, show compassion to orphans, and provide kindness to widowers and widows, thus fulfilling my intent.
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六年。诏曰：先帝诏书禁民上事言圣，而间者章奏颇多浮辞，自今若有过称虚誉，尚书皆宜抑而勿省，示不为谄子嗤也。 |
| | The sixth year. An edict was issued: "The late emperor's decree forbade the people from submitting petitions that claimed divine or saintly status. Yet recently, many memorials have contained excessive and exaggerated language. From now on, if any submissions contain overpraise or false flattery, the Secretariat should suppress them and not submit them for review, to show that we will not be mocked by sycophants."
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八年，日有蚀之。诏曰：朕以无德，奉承大业，而下贻民怨，上动三光，日蚀之变，其灾尤大，永思厥咎，在予一人，羣司勉修职事，极言无讳，于是在位者皆上封事各陈得失，帝览章，深自引咎，乃以所上班示百官。诏曰：羣寮所言，皆朕之过，人寃不能理，吏黠不能禁，而轻用民力，缮治室宇，出入无节，喜怒过差，永览前戒，竦然兢惧，徒恐薄德，久而致怠耳。 |
| | In the eighth year, there was a solar eclipse. An edict was issued: "Due to my lack of virtue, I have inherited this great responsibility. Yet the people below are burdened with resentment and the heavens above show signs through disturbances in the three lights. The occurrence of a solar eclipse is particularly ominous. Reflecting deeply on its cause, the fault lies solely with me alone. All officials must diligently perform their duties and speak out frankly without reservation." As a result, those in office submitted sealed memorials detailing their views on gains and losses. Upon reading these submissions, the emperor profoundly acknowledged his own faults and ordered that all of them be shown to the hundred officials. An edict was issued: "What the officials have said is all my fault. I am unable to redress people's grievances, and I cannot restrain corrupt or cunning officials. Moreover, I lightly use the labor of the people for building palaces and structures; my comings and goings are without restraint, and my expressions of joy and anger often exceed proper bounds. Reflecting on these warnings from the past, I am deeply alarmed and vigilant. I fear only that my shallow virtue may lead to gradual neglect."
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十二年，诏曰。昔曾闵奉亲，竭欢致养;仲尼葬子，有棺无椁，丧贵致哀，礼存宁俭，今百姓送终之制，竞为奢靡，生者无担石，而财力尽于坟土，伏腊无糟糠，而牲牢兼于一奠，糜破积世之业，以供终朝之费，子孙饥寒，终命于此，岂祖考之意哉。又车服过制，恣极耳目，田荒不耕，浮食者衆，有司其申明科禁宜于今者，宣下郡国。 |
| | In the twelfth year, an edict was issued: "In the past, Zeng Shen and Min Zi served their parents with utmost devotion to bring them joy; Confucius buried his son in a coffin but without an outer case. In mourning, what matters is sincere grief; in ritual, simplicity brings peace. Yet today, among common people, funeral customs have become excessively extravagant. The living, though possessing no more than one dan of grain, exhaust their wealth on tombs; lacking even scraps of food for the winter months, they still offer multiple sacrificial animals at a single ceremony. They squander generations' worth of accumulated property to satisfy the costs of a brief funeral, leaving descendants starving and cold—thus ending up in hardship. Is this truly what one's ancestors would wish?" Furthermore, carriages and clothing exceed proper standards; people indulge in excessive pleasures for the eyes and ears. Farmland lies fallow without cultivation, and many live off idle means. Officials should clearly declare regulations and prohibitions suitable to current circumstances and issue them throughout the commanderies and states.
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十八年，帝崩，遗诏，无起寝庙，藏主于光烈皇后更衣别室，帝遵奉建武制度，事无违者，后宫之家，不得封侯与政，馆陶公主为子求郎，不许，而赐钱千万。谓羣臣曰：郎官上应列宿，出宰百里，有有作苟，非其人，则民受其殃，是以难之，故吏称其官，民安其业，远近肃服，户口滋殖焉。 |
| | In the eighteenth year, the emperor passed away. His last will stated: "Do not build a mausoleum or temple; place my spirit tablet in a separate room for changing clothes within Empress Guanglie's quarters." The emperor had strictly followed the regulations of the Jianwu era without deviation. Concubines' families were forbidden from being enfeoffed as marquises or participating in politics. Princess Guantao once requested that her son be appointed an official, but this was denied; instead, she was granted ten million coins as a gift. He said to his ministers: "The rank of Lang officer corresponds to the constellations above and is responsible for governing a hundred li. If such an official acts carelessly or unworthily, the people will suffer the consequences. Therefore, it must be difficult to obtain this position. Thus, officials were worthy of their posts, the people found peace in their occupations, both near and far submitted respectfully, and the population flourished."
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论曰：明帝善刑理，法令分明，日晏坐朝，幽枉必达，外内无幸曲之私，在上无矜大之色，断狱得情，号居前世十二，故后之言事者，莫不先建武、永平之政。 |
| | Commentary: Emperor Ming was skilled in administering justice; his laws and decrees were clear and precise. He sat in court until late into the day, ensuring that even those wronged in remote areas received redress. There were no cases of favoritism or injustice within or outside the empire. Those in power displayed no arrogance or haughtiness. His judgments in criminal cases were fair and accurate, ranking among the top twelve of previous eras. Thus, later officials discussing governance always cited the policies of Jianwu and Yongping as exemplary.
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孝章皇帝讳炟，明帝第五子也。少宽容好儒术，显宗器重之，建初元年。诏曰：朕以无德，奉承大业，夙夜栗栗，不敢荒宁，而灾异仍见，与政相应，朕既不明，涉道日寡，又选举乖实，俗吏伤民，官职耗乱，刑罚不中，可不忧与，昔仲弓、季氏之家臣，子游、武城之小宰，孔子犹诲以贤才，问以得人，明政之小大，以人为本，鄕举里选，必累功劳，今刺史守相，不明真僞，茂才孝廉，岁以百数，既非能显，而当授之政事，甚无谓也。每寻前世举人贡士，或起甽亩，不系阀閲，敷奏以言，则文章可采，明试以功，则治有异迹，文质斌斌，朕甚嘉之，其令太傅、三公、中二千石、二千石、郡国守相，举贤良方正能直言极谏之士各一人。 |
| | Emperor Xiaozhang, given name Da, was the fifth son of Emperor Ming. From a young age, he was broad-minded and fond of Confucian learning; Emperor Xianzong held him in high regard. In the first year of Jianchu. An edict was issued: "Due to my lack of virtue, having inherited this great responsibility, I have been trembling with anxiety day and night, never daring to indulge in idleness. Yet disasters and omens continue to appear, corresponding to the state of governance. Since I am not wise, my understanding of the Way grows ever more limited. Moreover, appointments deviate from reality; petty officials harm the people, official positions are chaotic, and punishments do not meet their due measure—how can this not be a cause for concern? In ancient times, Zhonggong, a retainer in Ji Shi's household, and Ziyou, the minor administrator of Wucheng, were still advised by Confucius to seek virtuous talent and inquire about capable individuals. Clearly, whether great or small, governance depends on people. The system of recommending officials through local nominations must be based on accumulated merit. Yet now, provincial inspectors and magistrates fail to distinguish truth from falsehood; each year, hundreds are recommended as 'Outstanding Talent' or 'Filial and Upright,' yet many lack the ability to govern. To entrust such individuals with administrative duties is utterly meaningless." Whenever I reflect on the past practice of recommending scholars and talents, some were raised from among common farmers, not bound by family status. If they presented their views eloquently, their writings could be praised; if tested through service, their governance showed remarkable achievements. Their combination of literary talent and moral integrity was admirable, and I greatly commend this. Therefore, let the Tai Fu (Grand Tutor), the Three Dukes, officials ranked at Zhong Erqianshi or Erqianshi, as well as magistrates of commanderies and states, each recommend one virtuous and upright scholar who is capable of speaking truthfully and offering bold remonstrances.
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四年，诏于是下太常、将、大夫、博士、议郞、郎官及诸生、诸儒会白虎观，讲议五经同异，帝亲称制临决焉。七年。诏曰：车驾行秋稼，观收获，因涉郡界，皆精骑轻行，无他辎重，不得辄修道桥，远离城郭，遣吏逢迎，刺探起居，出入前后，以为烦扰也。动务省约，但患不能脱粟瓢饮耳，所过欲令贫弱有利，无违诏书。 |
| | In the fourth year, an edict was therefore issued. The Taichang (Minister of Rites), generals,大夫 (ministers), doctors, Yilang officials, Lang officers, as well as scholars and Confucian masters were summoned to Baihu Guan (White Tiger Pavilion) to discuss and debate differences in the Five Classics. The emperor personally presided over and decided on these matters. The seventh year. An edict was issued: "When the imperial procession travels to inspect autumn harvests and observe the gathering of crops, it will pass through commandery boundaries. All movements must be made with light cavalry and minimal entourage; no additional supplies or heavy baggage are allowed. No roads or bridges may be hastily repaired, nor should officials from distant cities and towns be sent ahead to greet us or inquire about our daily activities. Officials before and behind the procession must not cause disturbances." All movements should be simple and frugal. The only concern is whether we ourselves can live on plain rice and water in a gourd. Wherever the procession passes, I wish for the poor and weak to benefit; no one must violate this decree.
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元和二年。诏曰：令云，民有産子者，复勿算三岁，今诸怀妊者，赐胎养谷人三斛，复其夫勿算一岁，著以为令。又诏曰：方春生养，万物莩甲，宜助萌阳，以育时物，其令有司罪非殊死且勿案验，及吏民条书相吿不得听受，冀以息事宁民，敬奉天气，立秋如故，夫俗吏矫饰外貌，似是而非，揆之人事则悦耳，论之阴阳则伤化，朕甚餍之，甚苦之，安静之吏，悃愊无华，日计不足，月计有馀，如襄城令刘方，吏民同声谓之不烦，虽未有他异，斯亦殆近之矣。间敕二千石各尚宽明，而今富奸行赂于下，贪吏枉法于上，使有罪不论而无过被刑，甚大逆也。夫以苛为察，以刻为明，以轻为德，以重为威，四者或兴，则下有怨心，吾诏书数下，冠盖接道，而吏不加治，民或失职，其咎安在，勉思旧令，称朕意焉。又诏曰：律，十二月立春，不以报囚，月令，冬至之后，有顺阳助生之文，而无鞫狱断刑之政，朕谘访儒雅，稽之典籍，以为王者生杀，宜顺时气，其定律无以十一月十二月报囚。 |
| | The second year of Yuanhe. An edict was issued: "According to the decree, for every child born to a family, no head tax will be levied for three years. Now, all pregnant women shall each receive three hu of grain for prenatal care; additionally, their husbands will be exempt from taxation for one year. Let this be established as an official order." Another edict was issued: "Now is the season of spring, when life flourishes and all things sprout. We should assist in nurturing yang energy to foster timely growth. Therefore, let officials refrain from investigating or verifying crimes that do not involve capital punishment for now; nor shall they accept reports or written accusations between officials and commoners. This measure aims to calm affairs and bring peace to the people, showing reverence for Heaven's will. Resume normal autumn activities as before. As for petty officials who merely pretend with outward appearances—seeming correct but actually false—their actions may sound pleasing in human matters, yet they harm moral cultivation when judged by yin-yang principles. I find such conduct deeply repulsive and burdensome. Quiet and sincere officials, like Liu Fang the magistrate of Xiangcheng, are humble and unadorned; though their daily contributions seem small, over a month they yield results. Officials and commoners alike praise him as 'not troublesome.' Though he may not have achieved extraordinary feats, this is surely close to what we seek." Recently, I have issued orders to all officials ranked at Erqianshi to govern with leniency and clarity. Yet now the wealthy and corrupt bribe those below them, while greedy officials pervert justice above, causing the guilty to go unpunished and the innocent to suffer punishment—this is a grave injustice indeed. To take severity as vigilance, harshness as clarity, leniency as virtue, and excessive punishment as authority—when any of these four approaches prevails, resentment will arise among the people. I have repeatedly issued decrees, with officials traveling along the roads in constant succession, yet governance has not improved; some commoners still lose their livelihoods. Where lies the fault? Strive to reflect on past orders and fulfill my intent. Another edict was issued: "According to the law, in the twelfth month when Lichun (the Beginning of Spring) occurs, prisoners should not be executed. The Monthly Ordinances state that after Dongzhi (Winter Solstice), there are records about assisting yang energy and promoting life, but no mention of trials or executions. After consulting learned Confucian scholars and examining classical texts, I believe the Son of Heaven's authority to grant life or death should follow seasonal rhythms. Therefore, let it be established in law that prisoners shall not be executed during the eleventh and twelfth months."
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三年春，北巡狩。敕侍御史司空曰：方春，所过无得有所伐杀，车可引避，引避之，騑马可辍解，辍解之，诗云，敦彼行苇，牛羊勿践履，礼，人君伐一草木不时，谓之不孝，俗知顺人，莫知顺天，其明称朕意。 |
| | In spring of the third year, he conducted a northern inspection tour. He issued an order to the Shiyushi and Sikong: "Now is spring. Along the route of passage, no trees or plants may be cut down or killed. If carriages must pass through reed beds, they should detour; if necessary, even the side horses may be unharnessed. As the poem says: 'Thick are those reeds along the path—do not trample them with cattle and sheep.' According to ritual, a ruler who cuts down grass or trees at an improper time is considered disrespectful and unfilial. Common people know how to follow human customs but rarely understand how to follow Heaven's will. Clearly proclaim my intent."
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论曰：魏文帝称，明帝察察，章帝长者，章帝素知民厌明帝苛切，事从宽厚，感陈宠之议，除惨之狱科，深元元之爱，著胎养之令，割裂名都以崇建周亲，平徭简赋而民赖其庆，又体之以忠恕，文之以礼乐，故乃蕃辅克谐，羣后德让，谓之长者，不亦宜乎。在位十三年，郡国所上符瑞合于图书者数百千所，呜呼懋哉。 |
| | Commentary: Wei Wen Di remarked that Emperor Ming was meticulous and exacting, while Emperor Zhang was a man of integrity. Knowing the people's weariness with Emperor Ming's severity, Emperor Zhang governed with leniency and kindness. Influenced by Chen Chong's advice, he abolished harsh legal provisions and cruel punishments; he deeply cherished the welfare of the common people, issuing decrees to support pregnant women and their children. He divided famous cities into fiefs for his relatives, reduced corvée labor and taxes so that the people could benefit from peace and prosperity. Furthermore, he governed with loyalty and tolerance, and cultivated culture through rites and music. Thus, feudal lords harmonized in their duties, and noble consorts displayed virtue and humility. To call him a man of integrity was indeed fitting. He reigned for thirteen years, and throughout the commanderies and states, thousands of auspicious omens were reported that matched those recorded in ancient texts. Alas, how remarkable!
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孝和皇帝讳肇，章帝第四子也。在位十七年而崩，齐民岁增，辟土日广，每有灾异，辄延问公卿极言得失，前后符瑞八十一所，自称德薄，皆抑而不宣，旧南海献龙眼荔支，十里一置，五里一候，奔腾阻险，死者继路，时临武长汝南唐羌县接南海，乃上书陈状。帝下诏曰：远国珍羞，本以奉宗庙，苟有伤害，岂爱民之本耶，其敕太官勿复受献，由是遂省。 |
| | Emperor Xiaohuo, given name Zhao, was the fourth son of Emperor Zhang. He reigned for seventeen years before passing away. During his rule, the population of common people increased annually and territory expanded daily. Whenever disasters or omens occurred, he would summon high officials to consult on gains and losses with utmost candor. In total, eighty-one auspicious signs were reported; yet he always claimed that his virtue was shallow and suppressed these reports without publicizing them. Previously, the Nanhai region had presented longan fruit and lychees, requiring a relay station every ten li and a scout every five li. People rushed along treacherous roads, with many dying along the way. At that time, Tang Qiang, magister of Linwu County in Runan Commandery, which bordered Nanhai, submitted a memorial describing this situation. The emperor issued an edict: "Precious delicacies from distant lands were originally meant to be offered at ancestral temples. If their collection causes harm, how can this be the foundation of loving the people? Therefore, I order the Taiguan (Imperial Steward) not to accept any further tributes." From then on, such practices ceased.
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夏殷以上，后妃之制，其文略矣。周礼王者立后，三夫人，九嫔，二十七世妇，八十一女御，以备内职焉。后正位宫闱，同体天王，夫人坐论妇礼，九嫔掌教四德，世妇主知丧祭宾客，女御序于王之燕寝，颁官分务，各有典司，女史彤管记功书过，居有保阿之训，动有环佩之响，进贤才以辅佐君子，哀窈窕而不淫其色，所以能述宣阴化，修成内则，闺房肃雍，险谒不行者也。故康王晚朝，关雎作讽，宣后晏起，姜氏请愆，及周室东迁，礼序凋缺，诸侯僭纵，轨制无章，齐桓有如夫人者六人，晋献升戎女为元妃，终于五子作乱，冢嗣遘屯，爰逮战国，风宪愈薄，适情任欲，颠倒衣裳，以至破国亡身，不可胜数，斯固轻礼弛防，先色后德者也。 |
| | Before Xia Yin, the system of consorts and imperial concubines was not well documented. According to Zhou Li, the king would establish a queen, three fu ren (ladies of high rank), nine pin (attendants of lower rank), twenty-seven shi fu (female attendants), and eighty-one nü yu (ladies-in-waiting) in order to fulfill the duties within the palace. The queen occupied the central position in the palace, sharing a status equal to that of the king. The fu ren discussed proper conduct for women; the nine pin were responsible for teaching the four virtues (virtue, propriety, intellect, and skill); the shi fu managed knowledge related to funerals, sacrifices, and entertaining guests; the nü yu arranged the king's private quarters and leisure activities. Each official had assigned duties with clear responsibilities. Female scribes recorded merits and faults using red brushes. In their daily lives, they received moral instruction from nannies and were accompanied by the sound of jade pendants when moving about. They recommended virtuous talents to assist the king, admired graceful beauty without indulging in sensuality. This was how they could propagate proper feminine influence, cultivate internal standards of conduct, maintain harmony within the inner quarters, and prevent improper behavior or visits from occurring. Therefore, during the later reign of King Kang, the poem "Guan Ju" was composed as a warning. When Queen Xuan overslept in the morning, Jiang Shi requested punishment for her negligence. After the Zhou dynasty moved eastward, rituals and order gradually declined; feudal lords acted with arrogance and indulgence, abandoning established norms and regulations. Duke Huan of Qi had six women ranked as "ru fu ren" (ladies comparable to high-ranking consorts), while King Xian of Jin elevated a woman from the Rong clan to the position of principal consort, ultimately leading to rebellion among his five sons and misfortune for the heir apparent. By the Warring States period, moral standards deteriorated further; people gave in to desires without restraint, turning right side up into upside down, resulting in countless cases of national destruction and personal ruin. This was indeed due to the neglect of rituals and laxity in precautions, prioritizing beauty over virtue.
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秦并天下，多自骄大，宫备七国，爵列八品，汉兴，因循其号，而妇制莫厘，高祖帷薄不修，孝文妊席无辨，然而选纳尚简，饰玩少华，自武、元之后，世增淫费，至乃掖庭三千，增级十四，妖幸毁政之符，外姻乱邦之迹，前史载之详矣。及光武中兴，斫雕为朴，六宫称号，唯皇后贵人，贵人金印紫绶，俸不过粟数十斛，又置美人、宫人、采女三等，并无爵秩，岁时赏赐充给而已，明帝聿遵先旨，宫教颇修，登建嫔后，必先令德，内无出阃之言，权无私溺之授，可谓矫其弊矣。虽御己有度，而防闲未笃，故孝章以下，渐用色授，恩隆好合，遂忘淄蠹，自古虽主幼时艰，王家多舋，必委成冢宰，简求忠贤，未有专任妇人，断割重器，唯秦芈太后始摄政事，故穰侯权重于昭王，家富于嬴国，汉仍其谬，知患莫改，东京皇统屡绝，权归女主，外立者四帝，临朝者六后，莫不定策帷帟，委事父兄，贪孩童以久其政，抑明贤以专其威，任重道悠，利深祸速，身犯雾露于云台之上，家婴缧绁于圄犴之下，湮灭连踵，倾輈继路，而赴蹈不息，焦烂为期，终于陵夷大运，沦亡神宝，诗书所叹，，故考列行迹，以为皇后本纪云。 |
| | When the Qin dynasty unified the world, it became arrogant and extravagant. The palace system incorporated elements from seven states, with eight ranks of titles established. When the Han dynasty rose to power, it inherited these titles but did not clarify or reform the system for consorts. Emperor Gaozu neglected proper decorum in his private quarters; Emperor Wen failed to distinguish between concubines and legitimate wives. Nevertheless, selection and admission remained relatively simple, with few luxurious decorations or expensive playthings. However, since the reigns of Emperors Wu and Yuan, successive generations increased extravagant expenditures on women. By later times, there were as many as three thousand palace ladies in the yeching (palace for concubines), with fourteen hierarchical levels added. The signs of corrupt favorites undermining governance and the records of influential relatives causing chaos within the state are well documented by earlier historians. When Emperor Guangwu revived the Han dynasty, he simplified extravagance and returned to simplicity. Among the six palace ranks, only the empress and guiren (ladies of honor) were recognized. Guiren wore gold seals with purple sashes, receiving no more than dozens of hu of grain as salary. Additionally, three lower ranks—meiren (beautiful ladies), gongren (palace ladies), and cainv (attendants)—were established, without official titles or ranks, receiving only seasonal rewards and gifts. Emperor Ming strictly followed his predecessor's principles, carefully cultivating palace education. When appointing consorts or empresses, he always prioritized virtue first. There were no improper remarks from within the inner court, nor was power granted through private favor—this can be seen as a correction of previous abuses. Although he maintained self-discipline, the system to prevent interference was not strict enough. Therefore, from Emperor Xiaozhang onward, appointments gradually relied on personal favor and romantic connections, leading to excessive affection and neglect of potential dangers. In ancient times, even when emperors were young or faced difficult circumstances, the royal family often encountered problems, but power was always entrusted to the prime minister, who would seek loyal and virtuous individuals. There had never been a case where authority over major state affairs was solely given to women until Queen Dowager Qin Mi of the Zhou dynasty assumed regency. Consequently, Lord Ranghou held more power than King Zhao Wang himself, and his family's wealth surpassed that of the royal house of Ying. The Han dynasty followed this mistaken precedent without making any corrections despite being aware of its dangers. In the Later Han period (Eastern Han), imperial succession was frequently interrupted, with authority falling into the hands of empress dowagers. Four emperors were enthroned by outsiders, and six empresses ruled in their own right. None of them failed to make decisions behind palace curtains or entrust state affairs to their fathers or brothers. They prolonged their rule by exploiting young children and suppressed capable officials to consolidate power. This led to heavy responsibilities and long-term consequences, with great benefits often followed swiftly by severe disasters. Some were exposed to mist and dew on the Yuntai (Cloud Platform), while others saw their families imprisoned in dungeons below. Their downfall came one after another, like overturned carriages following each other along a road, yet they continued to rush forward without pause, burning themselves out for the sake of power. Ultimately, this led to the decline of dynastic fortune and the loss of sacred treasures—lamentations found even in poetry and historical records. Therefore, by examining their actions and recording them, we have compiled these events into the "Benji" (Basic Annals) of Empresses.
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明德马皇后伏波将军援之小女也。永平三年，立为皇后，既正位宫闱，愈自谦肃，能诵易经，好读春秋楚辞，尤善周官，常衣大练，裙不加缘，诸姬主朝请，望见后袍衣疏粗，反以为绮縠，就视乃笑。后辞曰：此绘特宜染色，故用之耳，六宫莫不叹息。 |
| | Empress Mingde Ma was the youngest daughter of General Fu Bo, Ma Yuan. In the third year of Yongping, she was established as empress. After assuming her position in the palace, she became even more humble and reserved. She could recite the I Ching (Book of Changes), enjoyed reading the Spring and Autumn Annals and the Songs of Chu, and was especially proficient in the Zhouguan (Rites of Zhou). She often wore plain, coarse silk robes with skirts that had no decorative borders. When other consorts and princesses paid morning visits or made requests to see her, they would look upon the empress's robe from a distance and mistakenly believe it to be fine gauze fabric; only when they came closer did they realize its simplicity and then laughed. The empress replied, "This fabric is particularly suitable for dyeing, so I use it." All the ladies of the six palaces could not help but sigh in admiration.
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时楚狱连年不断，囚相证引，坐系者甚衆，后虑其多滥，乘间言及恻然，帝感之，多有所降宥，每于侍执之际，辄言及政事皆补之，多所毗补，而未尝以家私干欲，宠敬日隆，始终无衰。 |
| | At that time, the legal cases in Chu had continued for many years without resolution. Prisoners cited each other as evidence, and a large number of people were imprisoned. The empress was concerned about excessive punishment and took the opportunity to mention this matter with compassion. The emperor was moved by her words and granted amnesty or reduced sentences to many. During every occasion when she served him personally, she would bring up matters of state , offering much assistance and advice. Yet she never used family affairs to seek favor or influence. Her favor and respect from the emperor grew steadily throughout her life without decline.
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自撰显宗起居注，削去兄防参医药事。帝请曰：黄门舅旦夕供养且一年，既无褒异，又不録勤劳，无乃过乎。太后曰：吾不欲令后世闻先帝数亲后宫之家，故不著也。帝欲封爵诸舅，太后不听，明年夏，大旱，言事者以为不封外戚之故，有司因此上奏，宜依旧典。太后诏曰：凡言事者，皆欲媚朕以要福耳，昔王氏五侯，同日俱封，其时黄雾四塞，不闻澍雨之应，又田蚡、窦婴，宠贵横恣，倾覆之祸，为世所传，故先帝防慎舅氏，不令在枢机之位，诸子之封，裁令半楚、淮阳诸国，常谓，我子不当与先帝子等，今有司奈何欲以马氏比阴氏乎。吾为天下母，而身服大练，食不求甘，左右但著皂布，无香薰之饰者，欲身率下也。以为外亲见之，当伤心自敕，但笑言太后素好俭，前过濯龙门上，见外家问起居者，车如流水，马如游龙，苍头衣緑褠，领袖正白，顾视御者不及远矣。故不加谴怒，但绝岁用而已，冀以默愧其心，而犹懈怠，无忧国忘家之虑，知臣莫若君，况亲属乎。吾岂可上负先帝之旨，下亏先人之德，重袭西京败亡之祸哉。固不许。 |
| | She personally compiled the Xianzong Qiju Zhu (Anecdotes of Emperor Xianzong's Daily Life), omitting any mention of her elder brother Ma Fang's involvement in medical matters. The emperor requested, "Uncle Huangmen has been providing morning and evening care for nearly a year. To neither commend his virtue nor record his diligence seems excessive." The empress dowager said, "I do not wish for future generations to hear that the former emperor frequently favored his empress's family; therefore, I have omitted it." The emperor wished to bestow titles on his maternal uncles, but the empress dowager refused. The following summer, a severe drought occurred. Those who commented on current affairs claimed it was due to not granting titles to relatives by marriage. Officials therefore submitted a memorial stating that they should follow established precedents. The empress dowager issued an edict, saying: "All those who speak on these matters merely wish to flatter me in order to seek blessings. In the past, when the five marquises of the Wang family were all enfeoffed on the same day, thick yellow haze filled the air, and there was no sign of timely rain. Moreover, Tian Fen and Dou Ying, who enjoyed great favor and indulged their arrogance, brought about disasters that are still remembered by later generations. Therefore, our late emperor exercised caution regarding his maternal relatives, not allowing them to hold key positions in state affairs. Even the enfeoffments for his sons were limited to only half of what was granted to the states of Chu and Huaiyang. He often said, 'My sons should not be equal to those of my predecessor.' Now, how can officials suggest comparing the Ma family with the Yin family?" "As the mother of all under heaven, I personally wear plain coarse silk and do not seek sweet or luxurious food. Those around me only wear black cloth garments without any perfumed decorations; this is to set an example for those below." She believed that when relatives by marriage saw this, they would feel ashamed and self-restrained. However, she merely smiled and said, "The empress dowager has always favored frugality. Previously, when I passed through Zhuolong Gate, I saw members of my wife's family visiting to inquire about her well-being; their carriages flowed like water, their horses moved like dragons in the sky, and their servants wore green gowns with white collars and cuffs so bright they outshone those of the imperial attendants." Therefore, she did not punish or scold them but merely cut off their annual stipends, hoping to silently shame them into self-reflection. Yet they remained lax and showed no concern for the state or family. No one knows a subject better than his sovereign; how much more so with relatives? "How could I possibly betray the late emperor's will above and disgrace my ancestors' virtue below, thus repeating the calamity of downfall that befell the Western Han dynasty?" She firmly refused.
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帝省诏悲叹。复重请曰：汉兴舅氏之封侯，犹皇子之为王也。太后诚存谦虚，奈何令臣独不得加恩三舅乎。且衞尉年尊，两校尉有大病，如令不讳，使臣长抱刻骨之恨，宜及吉时，不可稽留。太后报曰：吾反覆念之，思令两善，岂徒欲获谦让之名，而使帝受不外施之嫌哉。昔窦太后欲封王皇后之兄，丞相条侯言受高祖约，无军功，非刘氏不侯，今马氏无功于国，岂得与阴、郭中兴之后等耶，常观富贵之家，禄位重叠，犹再实之木，其根必伤，且人所以愿封侯者，欲上奉祭祀，下求温饱耳，今祭祀则受四方之珍，衣食则蒙御府之馀资，斯岂不足，而必当得一县乎?吾计之熟矣。勿有疑也。夫至孝之行，安亲为上，今数遭变异，谷价数倍，忧惶昼夜，不安坐卧，而欲先营外封，违慈母之拳拳乎。吾素刚急，有胸中气，不可不顺也。若阴阳调和，边境清静，然后行子之志，吾但当含饴弄孙，不能复关政矣。 |
| | The emperor read the edict and sighed with sorrow. He again earnestly requested, "Since the Han dynasty began, enfeoffing maternal uncles as marquises has been akin to making royal sons kings." "The empress dowager sincerely values humility, but how can she allow her subject alone to be denied the grace of enfeoffing three maternal uncles?" Moreover, the Weiwei is now old in age, and the two jiaoyue (military officers) suffer from serious illnesses. If they were to pass away unexpectedly, I would carry a deep lifelong regret. It is appropriate to act while there is still time; we must not delay any further. The empress dowager replied, "I have considered this matter repeatedly and carefully weighed both sides. I do not merely wish to gain a reputation for humility while causing the emperor to be suspected of withholding kindness from his relatives." "In the past, Empress Dowager Dou wished to enfeoff the brother of Empress Wang. Chancellor Tiao Hou stated that according to an agreement made by Emperor Gaozu, only those with military merit and members of the Liu family could be granted marquisates. Now, the Ma clan has no service or contribution to the state; how can they compare to the Yin and Guo families who were instrumental in restoring the dynasty? I have always observed that among wealthy and noble families, overlapping positions and titles are like trees bearing fruit twice a year—their roots must inevitably be harmed. Moreover, people desire marquisates mainly for two reasons: to offer sacrifices above and to seek warmth and food below. Today, they already receive rare treasures from all directions for their ancestral rites and enjoy the leftovers of imperial workshops for clothing and food. Is this not sufficient? Why must they necessarily obtain a county?" I have considered this thoroughly. "There is no need to doubt." "The highest expression of filial piety is to ensure the well-being of one's parents. Now, we have repeatedly encountered ominous signs and grain prices have risen several times over. I am worried day and night, unable to sit or lie down in peace. How can you first seek external enfeoffments, going against your mother's earnest wishes?" "I have always been strong-willed and impetuous, with a fiery temper; it is essential to accommodate me." "If yin and yang are in harmony, the borders peaceful, then I will allow you to pursue your wishes. By that time, I shall merely suckle my grandchild and no longer concern myself with state affairs."
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其外亲有谦素义行者，辄假借温言，赏以财位，如有纤介，则先见严恪之色，然后加谴，其美车服不轨法度者，便绝属籍，遣归田里，广平、巨鹿、乐成王车骑朴素，无金银之饰，太后即赐钱各五百万，于是内外从化，被服如一，诸家惶恐，倍于永平世，乃置织室蚕于濯龙中，数往观视，以为娱乐，常与帝旦夕言道政事，及教授诸小王论议经书，述叙平生，雍和终日。 |
| | For her relatives by marriage who demonstrated humility, simplicity, and virtuous conduct, she would often use gentle words to encourage them and reward them with wealth or official positions. If any showed even minor misconduct, however, she first displayed a stern expression before issuing reprimands. Those whose luxurious carriages and clothing violated established regulations were immediately removed from the family register and sent back to their hometowns. When Guangping, Ju Lu, and Lecheng Kings traveled in plain vehicles without gold or silver decorations, the empress dowager personally granted each of them five million coins. As a result, both inside and outside the court followed her example, dressing similarly. All families lived in fear, more so than during the Yongping era. She then established weaving rooms and silkworm farms within Zhuolong Palace, frequently visiting to observe these activities for entertainment. She often discussed state affairs with the emperor at dawn and dusk, taught the younger kings about Confucian classics, recounted her life experiences, and spent entire days in harmonious conversation.
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天下丰稔，方垂无事，帝遂封三舅廖、防、光为列侯，并辞让，愿就关内侯。太后闻之曰：圣人设教，各有其方，知人情性莫能齐也。吾日夜惕厉，思自降损，居不求安，食不念饱，冀乘此道，不负先帝，所以化导兄弟，共同斯志，欲令瞑目之日，无所复恨，何意老志复不从哉。廖等不得已，受封爵而退位归第焉。 |
| | When the empire enjoyed a bountiful harvest and peace prevailed, the emperor finally enfeoffed his three maternal uncles—Liao, Fang, and Guang—as marquises. They all declined the titles, requesting instead to be granted the lesser rank of Guannei Hou (Marquis within the Passes). The empress dowager heard this and said, "Sages established teachings with different approaches for each situation; understanding human nature reveals that people cannot all be the same." "I have been vigilant day and night, striving to humble myself and reduce my desires. I do not seek comfort in where I live or satisfaction from what I eat, hoping that by following this path, I will not betray the late emperor. This is why I have guided and instructed my brothers to share these aspirations; I wish that when the time comes for me to close my eyes forever, there will be no regrets left. How could I have expected their old age would still resist?" Liao and the others had no choice but to accept the titles while resigning from office and returning home.
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和熹邓皇后讳绥，太傅禹之孙也。选入宫为贵人，恭肃小心，动有法度，帝深嘉爱焉。及后有疾，特令后母兄弟入亲医药，不限以日数。后言于帝曰：宫禁至重，而使外舍久在内省，上令陛下有幸私之讥，下使贱妾获不知足之谤，上下交损，诚不愿也。帝曰：人皆以数入为荣，贵人反以为忧，深自抑损，诚难及也。每有宴会，诸姬贵人竞自修整，簪珥光彩，袿裳鲜明，而后独省省作著，素，装服无饰，阴后以巫蛊事废，立为皇后，是时方国贡献，竞求珍丽之物，自后即位，悉令禁绝，岁时但供纸墨而已。 |
| | Empress Hexi Deng, whose personal name was Sui, was the granddaughter of Tai Fu Yu. She was selected to enter the palace as a guiren (lady of honor). She was respectful, reserved, and careful in her conduct, always following established rules. The emperor greatly admired and loved her. When the empress fell ill, the emperor specially allowed her mother and brothers to enter in person to attend to her medical care without limiting them by days. The empress said to the emperor, "The palace is of utmost importance. Allowing outsiders to remain for a long time in the inner chambers will invite criticism from above that you have private favorites and bring accusations from below that I am insatiably greedy. This harms both your reputation and mine; truly, it is not something I wish." The emperor said, "Everyone considers frequent visits to the palace a great honor, yet you, my honored lady, regard it as a source of worry. Your deep self-restraint is truly admirable and hard to match." Whenever there were banquets or gatherings, the other consorts and guiren would compete to dress up meticulously, adorning themselves with sparkling hairpins and earrings, wearing bright and colorful robes. Yet the empress alone maintained a simple appearance, dressing in plain clothes without any embellishments. After Empress Yin was deposed for involvement in witchcraft, she was appointed as empress. At that time, vassal states were competing to offer rare and luxurious gifts; however, after her ascension, she ordered all such contributions banned, allowing only paper and ink to be provided during seasonal festivals.
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冯异字公孙，颍川人也。建武二年为征西大将军，大破赤眉，屯兵上林苑，威行关中，六年，朝京师。帝谓公卿曰：是我起兵时主簿也。为吾披荆棘，定关中，既罢，使中黄门赐以珍宝衣服钱帛。诏曰：仓卒芜蒌亭豆粥，呼沱河麦饭，厚意久不报。异稽首谢曰：臣闻管仲谓桓公曰：愿君无忘射鈎，臣无忘槛车，齐国赖之，臣今亦愿国家无忘河北之难，小臣不敢忘巾车之恩。 |
| | Feng Yi, courtesy name Gongsun, was a native of Yingchuan. In the second year of Jianwu, he became the General Who Pacifies the West and decisively defeated the Chimei rebels. He stationed his troops at Shanglin Garden, and his authority was respected throughout Guanzhong. In the sixth year [of Jianwu], he paid a court visit to the capital. The emperor said to the ministers: "He was my chief clerk when I first raised troops." For having braved thorns and brambles to pacify Guanzhong for me, after the campaign ended, he sent a palace official of Zhonghuangmen to bestow on him treasures, clothing, money, and silk. The imperial edict said: "The hasty bean porridge at Wuluoting, the wheat meal by the Hutuo River—my sincere gratitude has long remained unexpressed." Yi kowtowed and thanked, saying: "I have heard Guan Zhong say to Duke Huan of Qi: 'May Your Majesty never forget the arrow that wounded me, and I shall never forget being shackled in a prison cart.' The state of Qi relied on this. Today, I also wish for our nation not to forget the hardships in Hebei, and as a humble subject, I dare not forget the kindness shown by binding my chariot."
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岑彭字君然，南阳人也。拜廷尉行大将军事，与大司马吴汉等围洛阳，数月，朱鲔等坚守不肯下，帝以彭尝为鲔校尉，令往说之。鲔曰：大司徒被害时，鲔与其谋，又谏更始无遣萧王北伐，诚自知罪深，彭还，具言于帝。帝曰：夫建大事者，不忌小怨，鲔今若降，官爵可保，况诛罚乎。河水在此，吾不食言，彭复往吿鲔，鲔乃面缚与彭俱诣河阳，帝即解其缚，拜鲔为平狄将军，封扶沟侯，建武八年，彭与吴汉围隗嚣于西城，公孙述将李育守上邽，盖延耿弇围之。敕彭曰：两城若下，便可将兵南击蜀虏，人苦不知足，既平陇复望蜀，每一发兵，头须为白。 |
| | Cen Peng, courtesy name Junran, was a native of Nanyang. Appointed as Tingwei , he served concurrently as commander of a major general, and with the Grand Marshal Wu Han and others besieged Luoyang. After several months, Zhu Yu and others held out resolutely and refused to surrender. The emperor, recalling that Peng had once been an officer under Yu, ordered him to go and persuade them. Yu said: "When the Grand Tutor was killed, I participated in the plot. Moreover, I advised Gengshi not to send Xiao Wang on a northern campaign. I truly know my crimes are grave." After Peng returned, Yu fully reported this to the emperor. The emperor said: "One who undertakes great endeavors does not harbor resentment over minor grievances. If Yu surrenders now, his official rank and title can be preserved; how much more so will he escape punishment?" "The Yellow River is here; I do not break my word." Peng went again to inform Yu, and Yu then came face-to-face in shackles with Peng to present himself at Heyang. The emperor immediately released his bonds and appointed Yu as the General Who Pacifies Di, bestowing on him the title of Fugou Hou. In the eighth year of Jianwu, Peng and Wu Han besieged Wei Xiao in Xicheng. Gong Sunshu's general Li Yu defended Shangui, which was surrounded by Gai Yan and 耿 Yan. The emperor gave orders to Peng: "Once the two cities fall, you may lead your troops southward to attack the Shu bandits. People suffer from insatiability; having pacified Long, they now covet Shu. Every time we mobilize an army, our hair turns white."
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臧宫字君翁，颍川人也。匈奴饥疫，自相分争，帝以问宫。宫曰：愿得五千骑以立功。帝笑曰：常胜之家，难与虑敌，吾方自思之，建武二十七年。宫与杨虚侯马武上书曰：匈奴人畜疫死，旱蝗赤地，疫困之力，不当中国一郡，万里死命，悬在陛下，福不再来，时或易失，岂宜固守文德而堕武事乎。诏报曰：黄石公记曰：柔能制刚，弱能制强，柔者，德也。刚者，贼也。弱者，仁之助也。强者，怨之归也。舍近谋远者，劳而无功，舍远谋近者，逸而有终，逸政多忠臣，劳政多乱民。故曰：务广地者荒，务广德者强，有其有者安，贪人有者残，残灭之政，虽成必败，今国无善政，灾变不息，百姓惊惶，人不自保，而复欲远事边外乎。孔子曰：吾恐季孙之忧，不在颛臾，且传闻之事，恒多失实，苟非其时，不如息民，自是诸将莫敢复言兵事者。 |
| | Zang Gong, courtesy name Junweng, was a native of Yingchua. The Xiongnu were suffering from famine and plague, and were quarreling among themselves. The emperor asked Gong about this. Gong said: "I wish to lead five thousand cavalrymen to achieve a feat of merit." The emperor smiled and said: "A family that always wins is hard to match as an opponent. I am just thinking about this myself." In the twenty-seventh year of Jianwu. Gong and Yang Xu Hou Ma Wu submitted a memorial stating: "The Xiongnu people and their livestock have died from plague, the land is suffering from drought and locusts, turning it red. Their strength weakened by disaster cannot rival even one commandery of China. The lives of those who travel ten thousand miles depend on Your Majesty's decision. Opportunity knocks but once; time may easily be lost. How can we then insist on adhering to literary virtue while neglecting martial affairs?" The imperial decree replied: "According to the records of Huangshi Gong: 'Softness can control hardness, and weakness can overcome strength. Softness is virtue.'" Hardness is banditry. Weakness is the aid of benevolence. Strength is where resentment converges. He who abandons the near to plan for the distant will labor without achievement; he who abandons the distant to focus on the near will find ease and a successful conclusion. A government of ease produces many loyal ministers, while a burdensome administration breeds disorder among the people. Therefore it is said: "He who seeks to expand territory will bring desolation; he who seeks to extend virtue will grow strong. He who possesses what he has will find peace, while the greedy who covet others' possessions will cause destruction. A policy of devastation and ruin, though temporarily successful, will inevitably fail. Now our nation lacks good governance, disasters and changes do not cease, the people are frightened and anxious, each person cannot protect himself, yet you still wish to deal with distant matters beyond the borders?" Confucius said: "I fear the Ji Sun family's troubles do not lie in Zhuan Yu. Moreover, matters of hearsay are often inaccurate. If it is not the right time, it would be better to let the people rest." From then on, none of the generals dared speak further about military affairs.
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祭遵字弟孙，颍川人也。从征河北为军市令，世祖舍中儿犯法，遵格杀之，世祖怒，命收遵。时主簿陈副谏曰：明公常欲衆军整齐，今遵奉法不避，是教令行也。世祖乃贳之，以为刺奸将军。谓诸将曰：当备祭遵，吾舍中儿犯令尚杀之，必不私诸卿也。河北平，拜征虏将军，遵为人廉约小心，克己奉公，赏赐辄尽与士卒，家无私财，身衣韦袴、布被，夫人裳不加缘，帝以是重焉。及卒，泯悼之尤甚，遵丧至河南县，诏遣百官先会丧所，车驾素服临之，望哭哀恸，还幸城门，过其车骑，涕泣不能已，丧礼成，复亲祠乙太牢，如宣帝临霍光故事，至葬，车驾复临，赠以将军侯印绶，朱轮容车，介士军陈送葬，谥曰成侯，既葬，车驾复临其坟，存见夫人室家，其后朝会。帝每叹曰：安得忧国奉公之臣如祭征虏者乎。遵之见思若此。 |
| | Ji Zun, courtesy name Disun, was a native of Yingle. He followed the campaign in Hebei and served as the commander of military commerce. When Emperor Shizu's son in the palace violated the law, Zun executed him on the spot. Emperor Shizu became angry and ordered Zun to be arrested. At that time, the chief clerk Chen Fu advised: "Your Excellency has always wished for discipline among the troops. Now Zun upholds the law without fear, this is how orders should be carried out." Emperor Shizu then pardoned him and appointed him as General Who Investigates Wrongdoings. He said to the generals: "You should be wary of Ji Zun. Even my son in the palace who violated an order was executed by him; he certainly will not show favoritism toward any of you." After the pacification of Hebei, he was appointed as General Who Subdues the Bandits. Zun was a man of integrity and frugality, cautious in conduct, self-disciplined and devoted to public service. Whenever rewards or gifts were given, he would distribute them entirely among his soldiers. His family had no private wealth; he himself wore leather trousers and a cloth quilt, and his wife's skirts lacked even a border decoration. The emperor valued him highly for this reason. Upon his death, the emperor mourned him especially deeply. When Zun's funeral procession arrived at Henan Xian, an imperial edict was issued ordering all officials to gather in advance at the mourning site. The emperor himself, dressed in plain attire, attended and gazed from afar, weeping bitterly. After returning, he visited the city gate, passed by Zun's chariots and cavalry, shedding tears that would not cease. Upon completion of the funeral rites, the emperor personally conducted a ceremony with full sacrificial offerings, following the precedent set by Emperor Xuan for General Huo Guang. At the time of burial, the emperor once again attended in person, bestowing on Zun the seal and sash of a general and marquis, a red-rimmed chariot, an ornate carriage, armed soldiers forming a military procession to escort the funeral, and posthumously granting him the title "Cheng Hou." After burial, the emperor visited his tomb again, inquiring about his wife and family. In subsequent court assemblies, The emperor often sighed: "How can I find a minister who is as devoted to the state and public service as General Zhenlou Ji?" Thus was Ji Zun so deeply remembered.
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马武字子张，南阳人也。封为扬虚侯，为人嗜酒，阔达敢言，时醉在御前面折同列，言其短长，无所避忌，帝故纵之以为笑乐，帝虽制御功臣，而每能回容，宥其小失，远方贡珍甘，必先遍列侯，而大官无馀，有功辄增邑赏，不任以吏职，故皆保其福禄，终无诛谴者。 |
| | Ma Wu, courtesy name Zizhang, was a native of Nanyangling. He was enfeoffed as Yangxu Hou. Wu was fond of alcohol, open-minded and bold in speech. At times, while drunk, he would openly criticize his peers before the emperor, speaking freely about their strengths and weaknesses without restraint or caution. The emperor thus indulged him for amusement. Although the emperor controlled and managed his meritorious ministers, he always showed tolerance, pardoning minor faults. When rare delicacies were offered from distant regions, they were first distributed to all marquises and counts, leaving nothing for the high officials. Whenever someone rendered service, their fiefs were immediately expanded with rewards, but no one was entrusted with administrative posts. Thus, all of them preserved their blessings and fortune, none ever suffering punishment or censure.
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论曰：光武中兴二十八将，前世以为上应二十八宿，未之详，然咸能感会风云，奋其智勇，称为佐命，亦各志能之士也。议者多非光武不以功臣任职，至使英姿茂绩，委而勿用，然原夫深图远算，固将有以焉尔，若乃王道既衰，降及霸德，犹能授受惟庸，勋贤兼序，如管、隰之迭升桓世，先、赵之同列文朝，可谓兼通矣。 |
| | Commentary: The twenty-eight generals of Emperor Guangwu who restored the dynasty were regarded by previous generations as corresponding to the Twenty-Eight Lunar Mansions in the heavens, though this is not clearly detailed. Nevertheless, they all seized their opportunities amidst turbulent times, displaying wisdom and valor, and were thus called "assistants in founding a reign." They were indeed men of ambition and ability. Many critics have blamed Emperor Guangwu for not appointing his meritorious subjects to official posts, leading to the talents and great achievements of these men being neglected. However, considering his deep planning and long-term strategy, there must have been a reason behind this decision. When the Way of Kingship declined and gave way to hegemonic virtue, it was still possible for mediocrity and merit to coexist in appointments, with both distinguished officials and virtuous scholars rising together—such as Guan Zhong and Xi Men Bao who alternately held high office under Duke Huan, or Xian Yu and Zhao She who served side by side during the Wen Emperor's reign. This can truly be called a balanced approach.
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降自秦、汉，世资战力，至于翼扶王运，皆武人屈起，亦有鬵缯屠狗，轻猾之徒，或崇以连城之赏，或任以阿衡之地，故势疑则隙生，力侔则乱起，萧、樊且犹缧绁，信、越终见葅戮，不其然乎。自兹以降，迄于孝武，宰辅五世，莫非公侯，遂使搢绅道塞，贤能蔽雍，朝有世及之私，下多抱关之怨，其怀道无闻，委身草莽者，亦何可胜言哉。故光武鉴前事之违，存矫枉之志，虽寇、邓之高勋，耿、贾之洪烈，分土不过大县数四，所加特进朝请而已。 |
| | Since the Qin and Han dynasties, the state relied on military strength. When it came to supporting imperial authority, these were all men of arms who rose suddenly from obscurity—some former butchers or ruffians, light-hearted and cunning individuals—who either received rewards worth entire cities or were entrusted with positions of great influence. Thus, when suspicions arose, conflicts inevitably followed; when power became equal, chaos erupted. Even Xiao He and Fan Zeng nearly ended up in shackles, while Han Xin and Wu Guang ultimately met their deaths through cruel punishment—was this not the case? From this time onward, down to Emperor Xiao Wu, the prime ministers of five successive generations were all marquises or counts. This led to the path for scholars and officials being blocked, with talent and virtue obscured by favoritism. In court there was private succession among noble families; below, resentment festered among commoners. As for those who upheld moral principles but remained unheard, abandoning themselves to obscurity in the wilderness—how could they possibly be counted? Therefore, Emperor Guangwu, reflecting on past mistakes, resolved to correct the imbalance. Although meritorious figures like Kou and Deng, or Geng and Jia, had rendered great service, their territorial grants did not exceed several large counties at most; any special honors bestowed were merely titles of courtesy and permission for court audiences.
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观其治平临政，课职责咎，将所谓导之以法，齐之以刑者乎。若格之功臣，其伤已甚，何者，直绳则亏丧恩旧，挠情则违废禁典，选德则功不必厚，举劳则人或未贤，参任则羣心难塞，并列则其弊未远，不得不校其胜否，即以事相权，故高秩厚礼，允答元功，峻文深宪，责成吏职，建武之世，侯者百馀，若夫数公者，则与参国议，分均休咎，其馀并优以宽科，完其封禄，莫不终以功名，延庆于后。 |
| | Observing his governance in times of peace, how he assessed duties and held officials accountable for their failures—was this not what is meant by "guiding through law and unifying with punishment"? Regarding the treatment of meritorious subjects, the challenge was indeed great. Why? If strict standards were applied, it would harm old bonds and betray past favors; if leniency prevailed, it would violate laws and precedents. Selecting by virtue might overlook those with great achievements; selecting by service might include those lacking moral integrity. Sharing power risked dissatisfaction among the group; equal appointments could lead to future problems. Thus, there was no choice but to assess their merits carefully, weighing each case on its own circumstances. Hence, high ranks and generous honors were bestowed as appropriate rewards for original contributions, while strict regulations and legal accountability ensured they fulfilled official duties. During the Jianwu era, over a hundred men were enfeoffed as marquises or counts; among them, several prominent figures participated in state deliberations, sharing both honor and responsibility equally. The rest received generous treatment with lenient policies, their fiefs and salaries preserved intact—none failed to achieve fame through merit, extending blessings to future generations.
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昔留侯以为高祖悉用萧、曹故人，而郭伋亦讥南阳多显，郑兴又戒功臣专任，夫崇恩偏授，易啓私溺之失，至公均被，必广招贤之路，意者不其然乎。永平中，显宗追感前世功臣，乃图画二十八将于南宫云台，其外又有王常、李通、窦融、卓茂，合三十二人，故依其本第，系之篇末，以志功臣之次云尔。 |
| | In the past, Liu Hou believed that Emperor Gaozu relied entirely on Xiao He and Cao Can's old associates; Guo Ji also criticized Nanyang for having too many prominent figures, while Zheng Xing warned against exclusive reliance on meritorious subjects. Indeed, granting favors selectively is prone to fostering private favoritism and corruption, whereas impartial distribution of honor must broaden the path for recruiting virtuous talent. Is this not exactly the case? In the middle of Yongping, Emperor Xiansong was moved by a sense of gratitude for the meritorious subjects of previous generations and thus had portraits of the twenty-eight generals painted on the Yuntai in Nan Gong. In addition to these, there were Wang Chang, Li Tong, Dou Rong, and Zhuo Mao, making a total of thirty-two individuals. Therefore, following their original rankings, they are appended at the end of this chapter to record the order of the meritorious subjects.
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太傅高密侯邓禹，中山太守全椒侯马成，大司马广平侯吴汉，河南尹阜成侯王梁，左将军胶东侯贾复，琅邪太守祝阿侯陈俊，建威大将军好畤侯耿弇，骠骑大将军参遽侯杜茂，执金吾雍奴侯寇恂，积弩将军昆阳侯傅俊，征南大将军舞阳侯岑彭，左曹合肥侯坚镡，征西大将军阳夏侯冯异，上谷太守淮阳侯王霸，建义大将军鬲侯朱佑，信都太守阿陵侯任光，征虏将军颍阳侯祭遵，豫章太守中水侯李忠，骠骑大将军栎阳侯景丹，右将军槐里侯万修，虎牙大将军安平侯葢延，太常灵寿侯邳彤，衞尉安成侯铫期，骁骑将军昌成侯刘植，东郡太守东光侯耿纯，横野大将军山桑侯王常，城门校尉朗陵侯臧宫，大司空固始侯李通，捕虏将军杨虚侯马武，大司空安丰侯窦融，骠骑将军慎侯刘隆，大傅宣德侯卓茂。 |
| | Grand Tutor Gaomi Hou Deng Yu, Tai Shou of Zhongshan Quanjiao Hou Ma Cheng, Grand Marshal Guangping Hou Wu Han, Governor of Henan Fu Cheng Hou Wang Liang, Left General Jiaodong Hou Jia Fu, Tai Shou of Langya Zhu'a Hou Chen Jun, Jianwei Da Jiangjun Haozhi Hou Geng Yan, Piaoqi Da Jiangjun Canju Hou Du Mao, Zhijinwu Yongnu Hou Kou Xun, Jinu Jiangjun Kunyang Hou Fu Jun, Zhengnan Da Jiangjun Wuyang Hou Cen Peng, Zuo Cao Hefei Hou Jian Dan, Zhengxi Da Jiangjun Yangxia Hou Feng Yi, Tai Shou of Shanggu Huaiyang Hou Wang Ba, Jiandi Da Jiangjun Ge Hou Zhu You, Tai Shou of Jindu Aling Hou Ren Guang, Zhenglu Da Jiangjun Yingyang Hou Ji Zun, Tai Shou of Yuzhang Zhongshui Hou Li Zhong, Piaoqi Da Jianggun Linyang Hou Jing Dan, Right General Huili Hou Wan Xiu, Huya Da Jiangjun Anping Hou Gai Yan, Taichang Lingshou Hou Pi Tong, Weiwei Ancheng Hou Chao Qi, Xiaoqi Jiangjun Changcheng Hou Liu Zhi, Tai Shou of Dongjun Dongguang Hou Geng Chun, Hengye Da Jiangjun Shansang Hou Wang Chang, Chengmen Xiaowei Langling Hou Zang Gong, Daskong Guchishi Hou Li Tong, Bulu Jiangjun Yangxu Hou Ma Wu, Daskong Anfeng Hou Dou Rong, Piaoqi Jiangjun Shen Hou Liu Long, Dafu Xuande Hou Zhuo Mao.
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马援字文渊，扶风人也。建武九年，拜为太中大夫，十七年，交址女子徵侧及女弟徵贰反，攻没其郡，九真、日南、合浦蛮夷皆应之，寇略岭外六十馀城，侧自立为王，于是拜援伏波将军，督楼船将军段志等，南击交址，斩徵侧、徵贰，传首洛阳，封援为新息侯。 |
| | Ma Yuan, courtesy name Wenyuan, was a native of Fufeng. In the ninth year of Jianwu, Ma Yuan was appointed as Taizhong Dafu. In the seventeenth year [of Jianwu], a woman named Zhengce from Jiaozhi and her younger sister Zhenger rebelled, attacking and capturing their commandery. The Miao and Yi tribes in Jiuzhen, Rinan, and Hepu all joined them, raiding more than sixty cities beyond the Ling Mountains. Zhengce declared herself queen. At this time, Yuan was appointed as Fu Bo Jiangjun (General Who Pacifies Waves), overseeing General Louchuan Duan Zhi and others to campaign south against Jiaozhi, where they beheaded Zhengce and Zhenger, sending their heads to Luoyang for display. Yuan was enfeoffed with the title Xinxi Hou.
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援尝有疾，梁松来候之，独拜床下，援不荅，松去后。诸子问曰：梁伯孙帝壻，贵重朝廷，公卿已下，莫不惮之，大人奈何独不为礼。援曰：我松父友也。虽贵、何得失其序乎。松由是恨之。 |
| | Yuan once fell ill, and Liang Song came to visit him. He alone knelt in homage at the foot of Yuan's bed, but Yuan did not respond. After Song left, His sons asked: "Liang Bosun is the emperor's son-in-law, a man of great prestige in court. Even ministers and officials rank lower than him all fear him. Why did you alone fail to show him proper courtesy?" Yuan said: "I am a friend of Song's father." "Though he is noble, how can I lose sight of the proper order?" Song thus bore a grudge against him.
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二十四年，武威将军刘尚击武陵五溪蛮夷，军没，援因复请行，遂遣援率中郞将马武、耿舒等徵五溪，援夜与送者诀。谓友人谒者杜愔曰：吾受厚恩，年迫馀日索，常恐不得死国事，今获所愿，甘心瞑目，但畏长者家儿，或在左右，或与从事，殊难得调，独恶是耳，初，军次下隽，有两道可入，从壶头，则路近而水险，从充道，则涂夷而运远，帝初以为疑，及军至，耿舒欲从充道，援以为弃日费粮，不如进壶头，扼其喉咽，充贼自破，以事上之，帝从援策。 |
| | In the twenty-fourth year of Jianwu, General Wuwei Liu Shang attacked the Miao and Yi tribes at Wuxi in Wuling, but his entire army was wiped out. Yuan then requested to lead another campaign, so he was sent with Zhonglangjiang Ma Wu, Geng Shu, and others to subdue Wuxi. At night, Yuan took leave of those who came to see him off. He said to his friend Yezhe Du Yin: "I have received great favors. With my years nearly spent and time running short, I often fear that I may not die for the state's cause. Now I am granted this wish; with peace of mind, I can close my eyes in contentment. My only concern is the sons of noble families—some might be stationed nearby or serve as my subordinates. It will be difficult to manage them properly. That is my sole regret." Initially, when the army was stationed at Xiajun, there were two possible routes into Wuxi: one through Houtu, which was shorter but perilous by water; and another via Chongdao, which was easier but required longer supply lines. The emperor had initially been uncertain about this decision. When Yuan's forces arrived, Geng Shu wished to take the Chongdao route. Yuan, however, argued that abandoning time and consuming provisions for such a path would be worse than advancing through Houtu to seize control of their strategic throat, which would lead to the rebels' inevitable defeat. He submitted this plan to the emperor, who followed Yuan's strategy.
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进营壶头，贼乘高守隘，水疾、船不得上，会暑甚，士卒多疫死，援亦中病，遂困，乃穿岸为室以避炎气，贼每升险鼓噪，援辄曳足以观之，左右哀其壮意，莫不为之流涕。耿舒与兄好畤侯弇书曰：前舒上言当先击充，粮虽难运，而兵马得用，军人数万，争欲先奋，今壶头竟不得进，大衆怫郁行死，诚可痛惜，弇得书奏之，帝乃使虎贲中郞将梁松乘驿责问援，因代监军，会援病卒，松宿怀不平，遂因事陷之，帝大怒，追收援新息侯印绶。 |
| | Advancing the camp to Houtu, the rebels occupied high ground and controlled the narrow pass. The river current was swift, making it impossible for boats to proceed upstream. At this time, summer heat was intense, and many soldiers died from disease. Yuan himself fell ill and became trapped. He then dug a room into the riverbank to escape the scorching heat. Whenever the rebels climbed the heights and shouted in defiance, Yuan would drag his sick body to observe them. Those around him were moved by his indomitable spirit, and none could help but weep for him. Geng Shu wrote to his brother Haozhi Hou Geng Yan: "Earlier, I recommended that we strike Chong first. Although transporting supplies was difficult, our troops could still be deployed effectively. Tens of thousands of soldiers were eager to fight at the forefront. Now, however, we have been unable to advance from Houtu, and the entire army is in a state of frustration, slowly dying away—this is truly heartbreaking." Upon receiving this letter, Geng Yan submitted it to the emperor, who then dispatched Hu Ben Zhonglangjiang Liang Song by imperial courier to reprimand Yuan and replace him as military supervisor. At that time, however, Yuan had already died from illness. Liang Song, long harboring resentment toward Yuan, took advantage of this opportunity to falsely accuse him. The emperor was furious and ordered the retrieval of Yuan's seal and sash as Marquis of Xinxi.
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初，援在交址，常饵薏苡实，用能轻身省欲，以胜瘴气，南方薏苡实大，援欲以为种，军还，载之一车，时人以为南土珍怪，权贵皆望之，援时方有宠，故莫以闻，及卒后，有上书谮之者，以为前所载还皆明珠文犀，马武、于陵侯侯昱等皆以章言其状，帝益怒，援妻孥惶惧，不敢以丧还旧茔，裁买城西数亩地稾葬而已，宾客故人莫敢吊会，援兄子严与援妻子草索相连，诣阙请罪，帝乃出松书以示之，方知所坐，上书诉冤，前后六上，辞甚哀切，然后得葬。 |
| | Initially, when Yuan was in Jiaozhi, he often consumed the seeds of yiyi (a type of water lily), which were believed to lighten the body and reduce desires, helping one resist malarial vapors. The yiyi fruits in southern regions were particularly large, so Yuan wanted to bring some back as seedlings. When his army returned, he loaded a cart with them. At that time, people thought these were rare treasures from the south, and powerful officials all coveted them. Since Yuan was then enjoying imperial favor, no one dared report this matter. After his death, however, someone submitted an accusation against him, claiming that what he had previously brought back in carts were actually pearls and carved ivory. Ma Wu, Yu Ling Hou Hou Yu, and others all submitted memorials detailing the situation to the emperor, who became even more enraged. Yuan's wife and children were terrified and dared not return his body for burial at their ancestral tomb; they could only purchase a few acres of land west of the city for a simple funeral in straw-covered earth. Friends and former guests did not dare attend or mourn him. Yuan's nephew Yan, along with Yuan's wife and children, tied themselves together with ropes made from grass and presented themselves at court to plead guilty. The emperor then showed them Liang Song's documents, revealing the true cause of their accusation. They submitted a petition for redress, doing so six times in total, each time with deeply sorrowful words. Only after this did they finally receive permission to properly bury Yuan.
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又前云阳令同郡朱勃。诣阙上书曰：臣闻王德圣政，不忘人之功，采其一美，不求备于衆，故高祖赦蒯通而以王礼葬田横，大臣旷然，咸不自疑，夫大将在外，谗言在内，微过辄记，大功不计，诚为国之所慎也。故章邯畏口而奔楚，燕将据聊而不下，岂其甘心未规哉。悼巧言之伤类也。窃见故伏波将军马援，拔自西州，钦慕圣义，间关险难，触冒万死，孤立羣贵之间，傍无一言之佐，驰深渊，入虎口，岂顾计哉。宁自知当要七郡之使，徼封侯之福耶。 |
| | Another was Zhu Bo, former magistrate of Yunyang and a native of the same commandery as Yuan. He presented himself at court and submitted a memorial: "I have heard that the virtue of a wise ruler is to remember the merits of his people, to appreciate one virtue without demanding perfection from all. Thus Emperor Gaozu pardoned Kuaitong and honored Tianheng with royal funeral rites. His ministers were thus reassured, none doubting their loyalty. When great generals are on campaign abroad, slander festers within; minor faults are remembered while major achievements go unacknowledged—this is indeed something the state must be cautious about." Therefore, Zhang Han fled to Chu out of fear of false accusations, and the Yan general held onto Liaocheng but refused to surrender—was it because they were content with their situation without seeking a plan? This is indeed lamentable for how slanderous words harm the innocent. I secretly observe the late General Fu Bo Ma Yuan, who rose from the western regions. He revered virtue and righteousness, braved countless dangers, risked his life a thousand times over, stood alone amidst powerful nobles, with no one to support him on any side, yet he rushed into deep abysses and entered tiger's mouths—was this out of calculation? Did he know at the time that he would be entrusted with the authority over seven commanderies or receive the blessings of a marquis title?
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八年，车驾西讨隗嚣，国计狐疑，衆营未集，援建宜进之策，卒破西州，及吴汉下陇，冀路断隔，唯独狄道为国坚守，士民饥困，寄命漏刻，援奉诏西使，鎭慰边衆，乃招集豪杰，晓诱羌戎，谋如涌泉，势如转规，遂救倒悬之急，存几亡之城，兵全师进，因粮敌人，陇冀略平，而独守空郡，兵动有功，师进辄克，诛锄先零，缘入山谷，猛怒力战，飞矢贯胫，又出征交址，土多瘴气，援与妻子生诀，无悔吝之心，遂斩灭徵侧，克平一州，间复南讨，立陷临鄕，师已有业，未竟而死，吏士虽疫，援不独存，夫战或以久而立功，或以速而致败，深入未必为得，不进未必为非，人情岂乐久屯绝地，不生归哉。惟援得事朝廷二十二年二年，作三年，北出塞漠，南渡江海，触冒害气，僵死军事，名灭爵绝，国土不传，海内不知其过，衆庶未闻其毁，卒遇三夫之言，横被诬罔之谗，家属杜门，葬不归墓，怨隙并兴，宗亲怖栗，死者不能自列，生者莫为之讼，臣窃伤之。 |
| | In the eighth year, when the emperor personally led a western campaign against Wei Xiao, the national strategy was uncertain and indecisive; the various camps had not yet assembled. Yuan proposed the plan to advance immediately, which ultimately led to the defeat of the western forces. When Wu Han captured Long, the road between Ji and Long was cut off, with only Didao remaining as a stronghold for the state. The people there were starving and desperate, their lives hanging by a thread. Yuan received an imperial order to travel westward, to pacify and reassure the frontier troops. He then gathered local leaders, persuaded the Qiang and Rong tribes through persuasion and explanation, his strategies flowing like spring water, his momentum as smooth as turning a compass. Thus he relieved the desperate crisis, saved the nearly lost city, preserved his entire army while advancing, and sustained himself by seizing enemy supplies. The regions of Long and Ji were roughly pacified. When alone defending an empty commandery, whenever troops moved they achieved success; when armies advanced, they always won victories. He exterminated the Xianling rebels, penetrating mountain valleys with fierce determination, fighting fiercely even as arrows pierced his shins. Later he went on campaign to Jiaozhi again, where the land was filled with malarial vapors, and Yuan bid farewell to his wife and children in life or death, without regret or hesitation, ultimately beheading Zhengce and pacifying an entire province. He once more led a southern expedition, capturing Linxiang by storming it directly; though the army had already achieved success, he died before completing his mission. Even as soldiers and officials fell ill, Yuan did not survive alone. In war, some achieve merit through prolonged campaigns, others suffer defeat due to hasty actions. Deep penetration is not always right, nor is inaction necessarily wrong. Is it human nature to enjoy being stranded for long periods in isolated lands without hope of returning home? For twenty-two years, Yuan served the court. For three of those years, he marched north beyond the deserts and south across rivers and seas, braving harmful vapors and dying on campaign. His name was erased, his title lost, his fief not passed down to descendants. People throughout the land did not know of his faults; commoners had never heard of any accusations against him. Yet he suddenly encountered the words of three men, falsely accused by slanderous rumors. His family closed their doors in fear, and he was buried without returning to his ancestral tomb. Grievances arose on all sides, relatives trembling with terror. The dead could not defend themselves; the living found no one willing to speak for them. I secretly mourn this injustice.
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夫明主醲于用赏，约于用刑，高祖尝与陈平金四万斤以间楚军，不问出入所为，岂复疑以钱谷间哉。夫操孔父之忠，不能自免于谗，此邹阳之所悲也。惟陛下留思竪儒之言，无使功臣怀恨黄泉，臣闻春秋之义，罪以功除，圣王之祀，臣有五义，若援所谓以死勤事者也。愿下公卿，平援功罪，宜绝、宜续，以厌海内之望，臣年已六十，常伏田里，窃感栾布哭彭越之义，冒陈悲愤，战栗阙庭，书奏，报归田里。 |
| | A wise ruler is generous in rewarding merit and cautious in applying punishment. Emperor Gaozu once gave Chen Ping four thousand catties of gold to sow discord within the Chu army, without questioning how it was spent. Would he then doubt someone for expenditures involving money or grain? To possess the loyalty of Kong Fu yet still be unable to escape slander—this is what Zou Yang lamented. I beg Your Majesty to reflect on the words of this humble scholar, and not allow meritorious subjects to harbor resentment in their graves. I have heard that according to the principles of Chunqiu, one's sins may be expiated by merit; among the five virtues of ministers under a sage king, Ma Yuan is precisely an example of one who died serving his duties with utmost diligence. I humbly request that Your Majesty summon the ministers to assess Yuan's merits and faults, deciding whether his title should be revoked or restored, so as to satisfy public expectations throughout the realm. I am now over sixty years old, a humble farmer in the fields, yet I secretly feel moved by Lu Bu's act of mourning Peng Yue. I dare to present this sorrowful petition, trembling with fear before court. After submitting my memorial, I was granted permission to return to my rural home.
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子廖字敬平，少以父任为郎，肃宗甚尊重之，时皇太后躬履节俭，事从简约，廖虑美业难终，上疏长乐宫，以劝成德政。曰：臣案前世诏令，以百姓不足，起于世尚奢靡，故元帝罢服官，成帝御浣衣，哀帝去乐府，然而侈费不息，至于衰乱者，百姓从行不从言也。夫改政移风，必有其本。 |
| | Yuan's son Liao, courtesy name Jingping, was young when he became a Lang official by virtue of his father's status. Emperor Suzong held him in high regard. At that time, the empress dowager personally practiced frugality and simplicity in her affairs. Liao, fearing these virtuous practices might not endure, submitted a memorial to Changle Gong to encourage the completion of moral governance. He said: "I have examined the imperial edicts of previous generations, which stated that the people's hardship stemmed from a societal preference for luxury and extravagance. Thus Emperor Yuan dismissed his clothing officials, Emperor Cheng wore plain clothes, and Emperor Ai abolished the music bureau. Yet wastefulness did not cease; decline and disorder followed because the people follow actions, not words." Changing governance and shifting customs must begin with addressing their root causes.
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传曰：吴王好剑客，百姓多瘢疮，楚王好细腰，宫中多饿死。长安语曰：城中好高髻，四方高一尺，城中好广眉，四方且半额，城中好大袖，四方用匹帛，斯言如戏，有切事实，前下制度未几，后稍不行，虽或吏不奉法，良由慢起京师，今陛下躬服厚缯，斥去华餝，素简所安，发自圣情，此诚上合天心，下顺民望，浩大之福，莫尚于此，陛下既已得之自然，犹宜加以勉勖，法大宗之隆德，戒成哀之不终。易曰：不恒其德，或承之羞诚令斯事一竟，则四海诵德，声熏天地，神明可通，金石可勒，而况于人心乎。况于行令乎。愿置章坐侧，以当瞽人夜诵之音，大后深纳之。 |
| | The Classic says: "When King Wu of Wu favored swordsmen, the common people were full of scars. When King Chu favored slender waists, many in his palace starved to death." The saying in Chang'an goes: "If the city favors high hairstyles, then all over the land will raise their hair a foot higher; if the city prefers wide eyebrows, then across the realm women will shave half their foreheads; if the capital loves large sleeves, then throughout the country people will use entire bolts of silk for one garment." These words may sound like jest, but they reflect profound truths. Previously issued regulations had not been in place long before gradually falling into disuse—not because officials failed to follow laws, but due to a slow erosion beginning from the capital itself. Now that Your Majesty personally wears plain and thick fabrics, rejects luxurious adornments, and finds peace in simplicity, this originates from your own virtuous disposition. This is indeed in harmony with Heaven above and satisfies the people below; no greater blessing could exist than this. Since Your Majesty has already achieved this naturally, you should still strive to maintain it, emulating the great virtue of Emperor Da, while warning against the failure to sustain such virtue seen under Emperors Cheng and Ai. The Book of Changes says: "One who does not maintain virtue will bring shame upon himself." If this matter is truly carried to completion, then the four seas will chant your virtues; its fame will permeate heaven and earth. Even spirits and deities may be moved, and inscriptions can be carved in gold and stone—how much more so would it affect human hearts? How much more so for the enforcement of imperial decrees! I humbly request to place this memorial beside Your Majesty, as a substitute for the blind man's nocturnal recitations. The empress dowager deeply accepted his words.
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卓茂字子康，南阳人也。以儒术举，迁密令，视民如子，举善而教，口无恶言，吏民亲爱，而不忍欺之，民常有言部亭长受其米肉遗者。茂避左右问之曰：亭长为从汝求乎。为汝有事属之而受乎。将平居自以恩意遗之乎。民曰：往遗之耳。茂曰：遗之而受，何故言邪。民曰：窃闻贤明之君，使民不畏吏，吏不取民，今我畏吏，是以遗之，吏既卒受，故来言耳。茂曰：汝为弊民矣。凡人所以贵于禽兽者，以有仁爱知相敬事也。今邻里长老尚致馈遗，此乃人道所以相亲，况吏与民乎。吏顾不当乘威力强请求耳。 |
| | Zhuo Mao, courtesy name Zikang, was a native of Nanyan. Recommended for office through his Confucian learning, he was promoted to Magistrate of Mi. He treated the people as his own children, promoting virtue and teaching with kind words, never uttering harsh language. Officials and commoners alike loved and respected him, unwilling to deceive him. The people often said that a certain subcommandery official had accepted rice and meat from them as gifts. Mao turned aside his attendants and asked: "Did the subcommandery officer request these things of you?" "Or did he accept them because you had matters to entrust him with?" "Or was it that, in times of peace and ease, you voluntarily gave these gifts out of goodwill?" The people replied: "We simply went to give them." Mao said: "If you gave and he accepted, why do you complain about it?" The people said: "I secretly heard that a wise and virtuous ruler ensures the people do not fear officials, and officials do not take from the people. Now I feared my official, so I gave him gifts. Since he accepted them without hesitation, I have come to report this." Mao said: "You are a corrupt member of the people." What distinguishes human beings from beasts is that we possess benevolence and love, knowing how to respect and care for one another. Even now, elders in the neighborhood still offer gifts of food; this is how human relationships are maintained through mutual affection. How much more so should it be between officials and the people? It is only that officials must not use their power to demand or forcefully request things.
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凡人之生，羣居杂处，故有经纪礼义，以相交接，汝独不欲修之，宁能高飞远走，不在人间邪，亭长素善吏，岁时遗之，礼也。民曰：苟如此，律何故禁之。茂笑曰：律设大法，礼顺人情，今我以礼教汝，必无怨恶，以律治汝，何所厝其手足乎。一门之内，小者可论，大者可杀也。且归念之，于是人纳其训，吏怀其恩，治密数年，教化大行，道不拾遗，平帝时，天下大蝗，河南二十馀县，皆被其灾，独不入密界，王莽居摄，以病免归，世祖即位。乃下诏曰：前密令卓茂，束身自修，执节淳固，诚能为人所不能为，夫名冠天下，当受天下重赏，今以茂为太傅，封褒德侯，食邑二千户。 |
| | Human life is inherently one of communal living and mingling, so we have established principles of propriety and righteousness to regulate our interactions. Do you alone wish to ignore these? Can you truly fly high and run far away from human society? The subcommandery officer has long been a virtuous official; it is proper for the people to give him seasonal gifts as an expression of courtesy. The people said: "If this is so, then why does law prohibit such actions?" Mao smiled and said: "Laws establish great principles, while rites regulate human feelings. Now I teach you through propriety; there will be no resentment or hatred. If I were to punish you by law, where would your hands and feet find a place?" Within the confines of one household, minor offenses may be discussed, but serious ones can lead to execution. "Go home and reflect on this." Thus, the people accepted his instruction, and officials cherished his kindness. For several years under his governance of Mi, moral education flourished; lost items were never picked up by strangers from the road. During Emperor Pingdi's reign, a great locust plague swept across the land, affecting more than twenty counties in Henan, yet not entering the borders of Mi. When Wang Mang assumed regency, Mao was dismissed due to illness and returned home. After Emperor Shizu ascended the throne, the emperor issued an edict: "The former magistrate of Mi, Zhuo Mao, restrained himself and cultivated virtue, upholding integrity with sincerity and steadfastness. He was truly able to do what others could not. His reputation is renowned throughout the land; he deserves a reward from all under heaven. Now I appoint Mao as Taifu (Grand Tutor) and enfeoff him as Hou of Bao De, granting him two thousand households for his fief."
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鲁恭字仲康，扶风人也。太傅赵熹举恭直言，拜中牟令，恭以德化为治，不任刑罚，民许伯等，争田累年，守令不能决，恭为平理曲直，皆退而自责，辍耕相让，亭长从民借牛，而不肯还之，牛主讼于恭，恭召亭长，敕令归牛者再三，犹不从。恭叹曰：是教化不行也。欲解印绶去，掾史泣涕共留之，亭长乃惭悔，还牛，诣狱受罪，恭贳不问，于是吏民信服。 |
| | Lu Gong, courtesy name Zhongkang, was a native of Fufu. Grand Tutor Zhao Xi recommended Gong for his straightforwardness, and he was appointed as Magistrate of Zhongmou. Gong governed through moral influence rather than relying on punishment. Some villagers, such as Xu Bo, had quarreled over land for many years without resolution by previous magistrates or officials. Gong fairly adjudicated the dispute; both sides withdrew in shame, abandoned their plows, and voluntarily gave way to each other. A subcommandery officer borrowed a cow from a farmer but refused to return it. The owner of the cow petitioned Gong, who summoned the official and repeatedly ordered him to return the animal, yet he still refused. Gong sighed: "This is a failure of moral instruction." He was about to resign and return his seal, but the clerks and officials wept and implored him to stay. The subcommandery official then felt ashamed and repented, returning the cow and presenting himself at the prison to accept punishment. Gong pardoned him without further inquiry. Thus, both officials and commoners came to respect and trust him.
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建初七年，郡国螟伤稼，犬牙缘界，不入中牟，河南尹袁安闻之，疑其不实，使仁恕掾肥亲往廉之，恭随行阡陌，俱坐桑下，有雉过，止其傍，傍有童儿。亲曰：儿何不捕之，儿言雉方将雏，亲瞿然而起。与恭诀曰：所以来者，欲察君之治迹耳，今虫不犯境，此一异也。化及鸟兽，此二异也。竪子有仁心，此三异也。久留徒扰贤者耳，还府，具以状白安，是岁嘉禾生中牟，安上书言状，帝异之。 |
| | In the seventh year of Jianchu, locusts ravaged crops in various commanderies and states. They spread like dog's teeth along borders but did not enter Zhongmou County. Governor Yuan An of Henan 尹 heard about this and doubted its authenticity, so he sent Ren Shu Yuan Fei Qin to investigate personally. Gong accompanied them as they walked through the fields, sitting together under a mulberry tree when a pheasant passed by and stopped nearby. A child was playing beside it. Fei Qin said: "Why don't you catch the pheasant, boy?" The child replied that the pheasant was about to lead its chicks. Fei Qin suddenly stood up in alarm. He took leave of Gong and said: "The reason I came was to investigate your governance. Now the locusts do not cross into this territory; this is one marvel." Moral influence has reached even birds and beasts; this is a second marvel. A child possesses compassion; this is the third marvel. Remaining here any longer would only disturb a worthy man," Fei Qin returned to the governor's office and fully reported the situation to Yuan An. In that year, auspicious rice grew in Zhongmou; Yuan An submitted a memorial describing this, and the emperor was astonished by it.
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