| | 吴志下: |
陆逊字伯言，吴郡人也。为鎭西将军，刘备大率衆来，权命逊为大都督拒之，备衆奔溃，拜上大将军右都护，逊虽身在外，乃心于国。上疏陈时事曰：臣以为科法严峻，下犯者多，顷年以来，将吏罹罪，虽不慎可责，然天下未一，当图进取，小宜恩贷，以安下情，且世务日兴，良能为先，自不奸秽入身难忍之过，乞复显用，展其力效，此乃圣王忘过记功，以成王业也。昔汉高舍陈平之愆，用其奇略，终建勋祚，功垂千载，夫峻法严刑，非帝王之隆业，有罚无恕，非怀远之弘规也。 |
| | Lu Xun, courtesy name Boyan, was a native of Wu Jun. He served as the General of the Western Defense. When Liu Bei led a large force to attack, Sun Quan ordered Lu Xun to serve as Grand Commander to resist him. The forces under Liu Bei fled in disarray. Lu Xun was then appointed as Supreme General and Right Protector. Although he was stationed outside the capital, his heart remained devoted to the state. He submitted a memorial discussing current affairs, saying: "I believe the laws and regulations are too severe, leading to many violations among the common people. In recent years, generals and officials have been punished for crimes; although they may be blamed for carelessness, since the empire is not yet unified, we should focus on advancing our cause. It would be appropriate to show some leniency in order to pacify public sentiment. Moreover, as state affairs grow increasingly complex, capable individuals must come first. Those who have committed no serious or heinous offenses that are difficult to tolerate should be reinstated and given prominent positions so they can contribute their abilities and efforts. This is the way of a sage ruler—forgiving past mistakes and remembering achievements in order to accomplish imperial success." In the past, Emperor Gaozu of Han forgave Chen Ping's faults and employed his extraordinary strategies. In the end, he established great achievements whose merits were recorded for a thousand years. Severe laws and harsh punishments are not the grand accomplishments of an emperor; nor is punishment without forgiveness part of a broad strategy to win over distant people.
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| | 吴志下: |
赤乌七年，为丞相，先是二宫并阙中外职司，多遣子弟给侍，全琮报逊，逊以为子弟苟有才，不忧不用，不宜私出，以要荣利，若其不佳，终为取祸，且闻二宫势敌，必有彼此，此古人之厚忌也。琮子寄果阿附鲁王，轻为交构。逊书与琮曰：卿不师日磾而宿留阿寄，终为足下门户致祸矣。琮既不纳，更以致隟，及太子有不安之议，逊上疏陈太子正统，宜有盘石之固，鲁王藩臣，当使宠秩有差，彼此得所，上下获安，谨叩头流血以闻，书三四上，及求诣都，欲口论嫡庶之分，以匡得失，既不听许，而逊外甥顾谭，顾承，姚信并以亲附太子，枉见流徙，太子太傅吾粲坐数与逊交书下狱死，权累遣中使责让逊，逊愤恚致卒也。 |
| | In the seventh year of Chiwu, he became Chancellor. Previously, when both palaces were without heirs and many officials inside and outside the court sent their sons and nephews to serve in attendance, Quan Cong reported this to Lu Xun. Lu Xun believed that if these young men truly had talent, there was no need to worry about not being employed; it was inappropriate for them to be privately dispatched just to seek honor and profit. If they were unqualified, such actions would ultimately bring disaster. Moreover, he learned that the two palaces held equal power and influence, which inevitably led to mutual rivalry—a situation strongly discouraged by ancient sages. Quan Cong's son Quan Ji indeed attached himself to the Prince of Lu and lightly engaged in instigating factional schemes. Lu Xun wrote to Quan Cong, saying: "You did not take Sir Fu Jidi as a model but instead kept Ar Ji in residence. This will ultimately bring disaster upon your household." Quan Cong did not accept this advice, and the situation became even more strained. When rumors of instability regarding the crown prince arose, Lu Xun submitted a memorial emphasizing that the crown prince represented the legitimate line of succession and should be firmly established as an unshakable pillar like a stone foundation. The Prince of Lu was merely a vassal ruler; therefore, distinctions in favor and rank should exist between them so that both could find their proper places and harmony would prevail throughout the court. With great solemnity, he knelt and wept blood to present his views. He submitted such memorials three or four times and even requested permission to travel to the capital personally to argue the distinction between legitimate and collateral lines of succession in order to correct errors and uphold righteousness. However, his request was not granted. Meanwhile, Lu Xun's nieces' husbands Gu Tan, Gu Cheng, and Yao Xin were all closely associated with the crown prince and were wrongfully exiled as a result. Wu Can, the Crown Prince's Grand Tutor, was imprisoned and executed for having corresponded frequently with Lu Xun. Sun Quan repeatedly sent imperial envoys to reprimand Lu Xun, who became so enraged and distressed that he eventually died of his injuries.
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| | 吴志下: |
子抗字幼节，迁立节中郞将。权谓曰：吾前听用谗言，与汝父大义不笃，以此负汝，前后所问，一焚灭之，莫令人见也。孙皓即位，加鎭军大将军，督信陵等军事，抗闻都下政令多阙，时何定弄权，阉官与政。抗上疏曰：臣闻开国承家，小人勿用，靖谮庸回，唐书攸戒，是雅人所以怨刺，仲尼所为叹息也。春秋已来，爰及秦汉，倾覆之舋，未有不由斯者也。小人所见既浅，虽使竭情尽节，犹不足任，况其奸心素笃，而憎爱移易哉。苟患失之，无所不至，今委以聪明之任，假以专制之威，而冀雍熙之声作，肃清之化立，不可得也。方今见吏，殊才虽少，然或冠冕之胄，少渐道教，或清苦自立，资能足用，自可随才授职，抑黜羣小，然后俗化可清，庶政无秽。 |
| | His son Lu Kang, courtesy name Youjie, was transferred to the position of Zhijie Zhonglangjiang (General of the Rank of Zhonglang with the Title of Zhijie). Sun Quan said to him, "Previously I listened to slanderous words and failed to uphold the great principles of righteousness toward your father. Because of this, I have wronged you. All documents concerning these matters before and after should be burned completely so that no one else can see them." Sun Hao ascended the throne and was granted the title of Zhenjun Dajiangjun . He supervised military affairs in Xinling, among other places. Lu Kang learned that many decrees and orders from the capital were flawed; at that time, He Ding wielded power arbitrarily, while eunuchs participated in governance. Lu Kang submitted a memorial, saying: "I have heard that when founding a state or inheriting a family, one must not employ petty people. The 'Zhen Zhen' and 'Yong Hui' chapters of the Book of Tang serve as warnings; this is why refined men express resentment and censure, and it is also what Confucius lamented." Since the Spring and Autumn period up to the Qin and Han dynasties, the seeds of downfall have never arisen from any other cause. The vision of petty people is inherently narrow; even if they were to exert their utmost sincerity and loyalty, it would still be insufficient for trust. How much less so when these individuals have long harbored deceitful intentions and allow their hatred or affection to shift arbitrarily? If they are always afraid of losing their positions, there is nothing to which they will not resort. Now that you have entrusted them with important responsibilities and granted them absolute authority, yet still hope for a harmonious and peaceful era or the establishment of a clean and upright moral order—this cannot be achieved. At present, although there are few officials of exceptional talent, some come from noble families and have gradually been educated in the principles of Confucianism; others have risen through hardship and self-discipline, possessing sufficient ability for their posts. These individuals can be appointed according to their talents, while the petty villains among them may be suppressed or demoted. Only then will customs become pure and governance free from corruption.
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| | 吴志下: |
闻薛莹徵下狱。抗上疏曰：夫俊乂者，国家之良宝，社稷之贵资，庶政所以伦叙，四门所以穆清也。故大司农楼玄，散骑中常侍王蕃，少府李勖，皆当世秀颖，一时显器，既蒙初宠，从容列位，而并旋受诛殛，或圮族替祀，或投弃荒裔，盖周礼有赦贤之辟，春秋有宥善之义。书曰：与其杀不辜，宁失不经，而蕃等罪名未定，大辟以加，心经忠义，身被极刑，岂不痛哉。且已死之形，固无所识，至乃焚烁流漂，弃之水滨，惧非先王之正典，或甫侯之所戒也。是以百姓哀耸，士民同戚，蕃，勖永已，悔亦靡及，诚望陛下赦召玄出，而顷闻薛莹卒见逮録，莹父综纳言先帝，傅弼文皇，及莹承基，内厉名行，今之所坐，罪在可宥，臣惧有司未详其事，如复诛戮，益失民望，乞垂天恩，原赦莹罪，哀矜庶狱，清澄刑网，则天下幸甚。 |
| | It was heard that Xue Ying had been summoned to prison. Lu Kang submitted a memorial saying: "Outstanding and virtuous individuals are the precious treasures of the state, the valuable assets for preserving the nation. They are what ensure that governance is orderly and that the four gates remain peaceful and clean." Therefore, Da Siniang Lou Xuan, Sanqi Zhongchangshi Wang Fan, Shaofu Li Xu—all were outstanding talents of their time and prominent figures. After initially receiving imperial favor and assuming official positions with dignity, they were all soon subjected to execution or punishment; some had their clans ruined and ancestral rites discontinued, while others were cast into exile in remote regions. Indeed, the Rites of Zhou provided for laws that could pardon virtuous men, and the Spring and Autumn Annals emphasized the principle of showing clemency toward those who have done good. The Book of Documents says: "Better to err in leniency than to execute the innocent." Yet Wang Fan and others had not yet been determined guilty, but were subjected to capital punishment. Their hearts remained loyal and righteous, yet their bodies suffered extreme penalties—how tragic this is! Moreover, the bodies of the deceased are already lifeless and cannot feel anything. Yet they were burned, scorched, and cast into rivers to be washed away—abandoned at riverbanks in such a manner. This surely does not conform to the proper rites of past kings or the warnings issued by Fu Hou. Because of this, the common people are sorrowful and alarmed, while scholars and officials share in their grief. Wang Fan and Li Xu have already perished; regret is now too late. I sincerely hope Your Majesty will pardon and recall Lou Xuan. Yet recently I heard that Xue Ying was suddenly arrested. His father, Xue Zong, served as a minister under the previous emperor and assisted Emperor Wen in governance. When Xue Ying inherited his family's legacy, he cultivated virtue and reputation within. The crime for which he is now accused is one that could be forgiven. I fear the officials have not fully investigated the matter; if he were to suffer execution, it would further alienate public sentiment. I humbly request Your Majesty to extend your heavenly grace, pardon Xue Ying's offense, show compassion in all cases of punishment, and purify the judicial system—this would be a great blessing for the realm.
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| | 吴志下: |
孙登字子高，权长子也。权为吴王，立登为太子，选置师傅，铨简秀士，以为宾友，登或射猎，远避良田，不践苗稼，至所顿息，又择空间之地，其不欲烦民如此，尝乘马出，有弹丸过，左右求之，有一人操弹佩丸，咸以为是，辞对不服，从者欲捶之，登不听，使求过丸比之，非类，乃见释，又失盛水金马盂，觉得其主，左右所为，不忍致罚，呼责数之，长遣归家，敕亲近勿言。 |
| | Sun Deng, courtesy name Zigao, was Sun Quan's eldest son. When Sun Quan was King of Wu, he appointed Sun Deng as crown prince. He selected and assigned teachers and mentors for him, carefully choosing outstanding scholars to serve as his companions and friends. When Sun Deng went hunting or shooting game, he would avoid fertile farmland at a distance so as not to trample crops. Even when stopping to rest, he always chose open spaces; this was how deeply he wished to avoid troubling the people. Once, while riding out on horseback, an arrow shot by a slingshot passed near him. His attendants searched for the culprit and found one man carrying a slingshot with a stone projectile. Everyone assumed it was he who had done it, but when questioned, the man denied any wrongdoing. The prince's attendants wanted to beat him, but Sun Deng refused, ordering them instead to find the actual projectile that had passed by and compare it with the one in the man's possession. When they found it did not match, the man was released. On another occasion, a golden horse-shaped water vessel went missing. The prince discovered that his attendant had taken it, but since he believed the act was done out of carelessness rather than malice, he refrained from punishing him and instead called him to account for his actions before sending him home in disgrace with instructions not to speak of this matter again.
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| | 吴志下: |
孙和字子孝，立为太子，常言当世士人，宜讲修术学，校习射御，以周世务，而但交游博奕，以妨事业，非进取之谓，后羣寮侍宴，言及博奕，以为妨事费日而无益于用，劳精损思，而终无所成，非所以进德修业，积累功绪也。且志士爱日惜力，君子慕其大者，凡所患者，在于人情所不能绝，诚能绝无益之欲，以奉德义之涂，弃不急之务，以修功业之基，其于名行岂不善哉。夫人情犹不能无嬉娱，嬉娱之好，亦在于饮宴琴书射御之间，何必博奕以为欢，乃命侍坐者八人各著论以矫之，于是中庶子韦曜退而论奏，和以示宾客，时蔡颖好奕直事，在署者颇效焉。故以此讽之。 |
| | Sun He, courtesy name Zixiao, was appointed crown prince. He often said that the scholars of his time should study and cultivate their knowledge, practice archery and chariot driving to prepare for state affairs; however, if they merely engaged in socializing and playing games, it would hinder their careers and not be considered a path of advancement. Later, when officials attended a banquet in his presence and discussed gambling and games, Sun He remarked that such activities wasted time and effort without any practical benefit, exhausted one's mind and thoughts, yet ultimately led to no achievement. This was not the way to cultivate virtue, improve learning, or accumulate accomplishments. Moreover, men of ambition cherish time and conserve their strength; gentlemen aspire to great achievements. What is truly concerning lies in desires that human nature cannot easily abandon. If one can indeed eliminate unnecessary desires and devote oneself fully to the path of virtue and righteousness, abandoning matters of little urgency in order to lay a solid foundation for achievement, would this not be beneficial to one's reputation and conduct? Indeed, human nature cannot entirely avoid the need for leisure and entertainment. If one must indulge in such pleasures, they should be found in banquets, music, books, archery, or chariot driving; why then resort to gambling as a source of joy? He therefore ordered eight attendants seated nearby to each compose an essay correcting this practice. As a result, Zhongshuzi Wei Yao withdrew and submitted a written argument, which Sun He presented to his guests. At that time, Cai Ying was particularly fond of playing games while handling official duties; those working in the office followed his example to some extent. Therefore, he used this as a means of gentle admonition.
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| | 吴志下: |
是后王夫人与全公主有隙，权尝寝疾，和祠祭于庙，和妃叔父张休居近庙，邀和过所居，全公主使人觇，因言太子不在庙中，专就妃家计议，又言王夫人见上寝疾有喜色，权由是发怒，夫人忧死，和宠稍损，惧于废黜，鲁王霸觊觎滋甚，陆逊，吾粲，顾谭等数陈适庶之义，理不可夺，全寄，杨竺等为霸支党，谮诉日兴，粲遂下狱诛，谭徙交州，权沈吟者历年。 |
| | After this, Consort Wang and the Princess Quan fell into discord. When Sun Quan once lay ill in bed, Crown Prince He conducted a sacrifice at the temple. His wife's uncle, Zhang You, lived near the temple and invited the prince to visit his residence. The Princess Quan sent someone to spy on them and then claimed that the crown prince was not in the temple but had gone to his wife's home for secret discussions. She also alleged that Consort Wang showed signs of joy upon hearing of Sun Quan's illness. Upon learning this, Sun Quan became furious. Consort Wang died from grief, and Crown Prince He gradually lost favor. Fearing being deposed, he grew increasingly anxious. The younger Prince Lu Ba took advantage of the situation and intensified his ambitions for power. Lu Xun, Wu Can, Gu Tan, and others repeatedly emphasized the principles distinguishing legitimate heirs from collateral branches, arguing that such matters could not be overturned. Meanwhile, Quan Ji, Yang Zhu, and others became supporters of Prince Lu Ba, and their slanderous accusations grew more frequent. As a result, Wu Can was imprisoned and executed, while Gu Tan was exiled to Jiaozhou. Sun Quan hesitated for many years over the matter.
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| | 吴志下: |
后遂幽闭和，于是骠骑将军朱据，尚书仆射屈晃率诸将吏泥头自缚，连日诣阙请和，权甚恶之，无难督陈正，五营督陈象上书称引晋献公杀申生立奚齐，晋国扰乱，又据，晃固谏不止，权大怒，族诛正，象，牵晃入殿杖一百。竟徙和于故鄣，羣司坐谏诛放者十数，衆咸寃之。封和为南阳王，遣之长沙，诸葛恪被诛，孙峻遣使者赐死，举邦伤焉。 |
| | Later, Sun He was eventually placed under house arrest. In response, the General of Chariots Zhu Ju and the Minister of Works Qu Huang led a group of generals and officials to prostrate themselves at the palace gate, binding their own hands in self-imprisonment, repeatedly petitioning for Sun He's release. Sun Quan deeply resented this action. The Wunan Du Chen Zheng and Wu Ying Du Chen Xiang submitted memorials citing how King Xian of Jin had killed Shen Sheng to install Xi Qi as heir, which led to chaos within the state of Jin. Zhu Ju and Qu Huang continued their persistent remonstrations without ceasing. Sun Quan became extremely angry and ordered the entire clan of Zheng and Xiang executed. He also dragged Qu Huang into the palace and had him beaten with a hundred strokes of the cane. Sun He was ultimately exiled to Guzhang, and more than ten officials were executed or banished for having advised against this decision. Many people considered these actions unjust. Sun He was posthumously enfeoffed as the King of Nanyang and sent to Changsha. Zhuge Ke had already been executed, and Sun Jun dispatched an envoy to carry out a death sentence on him. The entire realm mourned this deeply.
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| | 吴志下: |
孙霸字子威，和弟也。和为太子，霸为鲁王，宠爱崇特，与和无殊，顷之，和，霸不穆之声，闻于权耳，权禁断往来，时全寄，吴安，孙奇，杨竺等阴共附霸，图危太子，谮毁既行，太子以败，霸亦赐死，流竺尸于江，又诛寄，安，奇等，咸以党霸构和故也。 |
| | Sun Ba, courtesy name Ziwei, was the younger brother of Sun He. When Sun He was the crown prince and Sun Ba the Prince of Lu, both were favored equally. Soon after, however, rumors about their discord reached Sun Quan's ears, prompting him to prohibit all contact between them. At that time, Quan Ji, Wu An, Sun Qi, Yang Zhu, and others secretly supported Sun Ba, plotting against Crown Prince He. After these slanderous accusations spread, the crown prince fell from grace; Sun Ba was also ordered to commit suicide. Yang Zhu's corpse was cast into a river, while Quan Ji, Wu An, and Sun Qi were executed—all because they had conspired in support of Sun Ba and against Sun He.
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| | 吴志下: |
潘浚字承明，武陵人也。权称尊号，拜为少府。迁太常，时校事吕壹操弄威柄，奏按丞相顾雍，左将军朱据等，皆见禁止，浚求朝，欲尽辞极谏，至，闻太子登已数言之而不见从，浚乃大请百寮，欲因会手刃杀壹，以一身当之，为国除患，壹密闻知，称疾不行，浚每进见，无不陈壹之奸险也。由此壹宠渐衰，后遂诛戮，权引咎责躬也。 |
| | Pan Xun, courtesy name Chengming, was a native of Wuling. When Sun Quan assumed the title of emperor, he appointed Pan Xun as Shaofu (Minister of Works). He was later transferred to serve as Taichang (Minister of Rites). At this time, Lü Yi, an official responsible for investigating affairs, wielded great power arbitrarily and submitted reports accusing Chancellor Gu Yong, General Zhu Ju, and others, who were all punished or restricted. Pan Xun requested a court audience in order to strongly remonstrate against these actions. Upon arriving, he learned that Crown Prince Deng had already repeatedly spoken out against Lü Yi but without success. Pan Xun then summoned all the officials and planned to kill Lü Yi by hand during an assembly, offering his own life as sacrifice to eliminate this national threat. However, Lü Yi secretly learned of these plans and claimed illness in order to avoid attending. Every time Pan Xun met with Sun Quan, he did not fail to expose Lü Yi's treachery and dangerous nature. Because of this, Lü Yi gradually lost his favor; later he was executed, and Sun Quan took responsibility for the matter by self-reproaching.
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| | 吴志下: |
陆凯字敬风，吴郡人也。孙皓立为左丞相，时徙都武昌，杨土百姓，泝流供给，以为患苦，又政事多谬，黎元穷匮。凯上疏曰：臣闻有道之君，以乐乐民，无道之君，以乐乐身，乐民者，其乐弥长，乐身者，不久而亡，夫民者国之根也。诚宜重其食，爱其命，民安则君安，民乐则君乐，自顷年以来，君威伤于桀纣，君明暗于奸雄，君惠闭于羣孽，无灾而民命尽，无为而国财空，辜无罪，赏无功，使君有谬误之愆，天为作妖，而诸公卿媚上以求爱，困民以求饶，导君于不义，败政于淫俗，臣窃为痛心。 |
| | Lu Kai, courtesy name Jingfeng, was a native of Wu Jun (Wu Commandery). Sun Hao appointed Lu Kai as Left Chancellor. At that time, the capital was moved to Wuchang, and both officials and common people from Yangdu had to travel upstream along the river to provide supplies, which became a heavy burden and source of suffering for them. Moreover, many government affairs were mismanaged, leaving the common people in dire straits. Lu Kai submitted a memorial, saying: "I have heard that a virtuous ruler uses his joy to bring happiness to the people, while an unjust ruler uses it for himself. He who finds joy in the people will enjoy lasting happiness; he who seeks pleasure only for himself will soon perish. The people are the root of the state." It is indeed appropriate to value their food and cherish their lives. When the people are at peace, the ruler is secure; when the people find joy, the ruler finds joy. Since recent years, Your Majesty's authority has been damaged like that of Jie and Zhou, your wisdom clouded by villains, and your benevolence blocked by wicked factions. Disasters have not occurred, yet lives are lost; no great actions have taken place, yet the state's wealth is drained. The innocent suffer punishment while the unworthy receive rewards—this has led to Your Majesty's errors and misjudgments, causing Heaven itself to respond with omens of disorder. Meanwhile, ministers and officials flatter you for favor, burden the people for their own benefit, lead your Majesty toward injustice, and corrupt governance through decadent customs. I secretly feel deep sorrow over this.
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| | 吴志下: |
今邻国交好，四边无事，当务息役养士，实其府库，以待天时，而更倾动天心，搔扰万姓，使民不安，大小呼嗟，此实非保国养民之术也。昔秦所以亡天下者，但坐赏轻而罚重，刑政错乱，民力尽于奢侈，目眩于美色，志浊于财宝，邪臣在位，贤哲隐藏，百姓业业，天下苦之，是以遂有覆巢破卵之忧，汉所以强者，躬行诚信，听谏纳贤，惠及负薪，躬请岩穴，广采博察，以成其谋，此往事之明证也。近者汉衰，三家鼎立，曹失纲纪，晋有其政，又益州危险，兵多精强，闭门固守，可保万世，而刘氏与夺乖错，赏罚失所，君恣意于奢侈，民力竭于不急，是以为晋所伐，君臣见虏，此目前之明验也。 |
| | Now that neighboring states are at peace and the borders face no threats, we should focus on ending labor conscriptions, nurturing our soldiers, and filling state treasuries in preparation for future opportunities. Instead, Your Majesty has stirred Heaven's wrath and disturbed the people, causing unrest among them and widespread lamentation from all social classes. This is truly not a strategy for preserving the state or protecting its people. In the past, the reason why the Qin dynasty lost its empire was because it imposed light rewards but harsh punishments, and its legal system was chaotic. The people's strength was drained by extravagance; their eyes were dazzled by beauty, and their minds corrupted by wealth. Wicked ministers held office while virtuous sages remained in hiding. The common people lived in fear, and the entire realm suffered under this rule—thus came the calamity of a collapsing nest and shattered eggs. In contrast, the Han dynasty became strong because its rulers personally practiced sincerity and trustworthiness, accepted remonstrances and welcomed talent, extended kindness even to those carrying firewood for a living, personally sought out reclusive sages in remote caves, and widely gathered information through broad observation—thus achieving their success. These are clear lessons from history. Recently, the Han dynasty declined and three states stood in balance. The Cao family lost its discipline and order; the Jin dynasty seized power from them. Moreover, Yizhou (the Shu Han territory) was vulnerable to attack, with a strong but isolated military force. If they had merely closed their gates and held out firmly, they could have ensured stability for generations. However, the Liu family misused authority arbitrarily, rewarding and punishing without proper judgment; the ruler indulged in luxury while exhausting the people's strength on trivial matters. As a result, Yizhou was attacked by the Jin forces, its rulers and officials captured—this is clear evidence of what has happened recently.
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| | 吴志下: |
臣暗于大理，文不及义，智慧浅劣，无复冀望，窃为陛下惜天下耳，臣谨奏耳目所闻见，百姓所为烦苛，刑政所为错乱，愿陛下息大功，损百役，务宽荡，忽苛政，又武昌土地，实危险而堾埆，非王都安国养民之处，且童謡言，宁饮建业水，不食武昌鱼，宁还建业死，不止武昌居，臣闻童謡之言，生于天心，乃以安居而比死，足明天意知民所苦也。臣闻国无三年之储，谓之非国，而今无一年之畜，此臣下之责也。而诸公卿位处人上，禄延子孙，曾无致命之节，匡救之术，苟进小利于君，以求容媚，荼毒百姓，不为君计也。 |
| | I am ignorant of great principles, my writing lacks clarity and virtue, and I possess shallow wisdom with no further hopes. My only concern is for Your Majesty to cherish the empire. I humbly present what I have seen and heard: how the people suffer from burdensome regulations and how justice has become chaotic. I pray that Your Majesty will cease grand projects, reduce all labor conscriptions, focus on leniency, abandon harsh policies, and reconsider the relocation of the capital to Wuchang. The land there is indeed perilous and difficult, not a suitable place for an emperor to establish stability or nurture his people. Moreover, I have heard children's rhymes circulating: "Rather drink water from Jianye than eat fish in Wuchang; rather die in Jianye than live in Wuchang." I believe such songs arise from Heaven's will and reflect the people's suffering—comparing a place of safety to death itself is sufficient proof that Heaven understands their hardships. I have heard it said that a state without three years of stored grain cannot be considered truly established as a nation. Yet now we do not even possess enough for one year—this is the responsibility of your ministers and officials. Yet the ministers and high officials, though placed above the people in rank and enjoying benefits that extend to their descendants, have never shown a single act of loyalty or offered any strategy for correction. They merely seek small favors from Your Majesty through flattery, oppressing the common people without considering your long-term interests.
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| | 吴志下: |
自从孙弘造义兵以来，耕种既空废，所在无复输入，而分一家父子异役，廪食日张，畜积日耗，民力困穷，鬻卖儿子，调赋相仍，日以疲极，加有监官务行威势，所在搔扰，更为烦苛，民苦二端，财力再耗，此为无益而有损也。愿陛下一息此辈，以鎭抚百姓之心，此犹鱼鳖得免毒螫之渊，乌兽得离罗网之纲，四方之民，襁负而至矣。如此，民可得保，先王之国存焉。臣闻明王圣主，取士以贤，非求颜色而取好服捷口容悦者也。臣伏见当今内宠之臣，位非其人，任非其量，不能辅国匡时，羣党相扶，害忠隐贤，愿陛下简文武之臣，各尽其忠，拾遗万一，则康哉之歌作，刑错之理清，愿陛下留神思臣愚言。 |
| | Since Sun Hong raised his armed forces, farming has been abandoned and neglected; there is no longer any surplus in the regions. Moreover, families are split up so that fathers and sons serve different labor duties, while daily rations increase and stored resources dwindle. The people's strength is exhausted to the point of selling their children just to survive. Taxes and levies continue without pause, growing more burdensome each day. To make matters worse, supervisory officials enforce authority through intimidation, causing further unrest and adding new layers of harsh regulations. The people suffer from these dual pressures, and both wealth and strength are drained—this is clearly harmful with no benefit at all. I pray that Your Majesty will put an end to these officials, so as to pacify the people's hearts. This would be like fish and turtles escaping from a poisoned pond or birds and beasts freeing themselves from snares—people from all directions would then come carrying their belongings in gratitude. If this is done, the people can be preserved, and the state of our ancestors will endure. I have heard that enlightened kings and sage rulers select officials based on virtue, not by seeking those who are merely pleasing in appearance or quick-tongued flatterers. I humbly observe that among the current officials favored by Your Majesty, many hold positions they are not suited for; their appointments exceed their abilities. They cannot assist in governing or correct the times but instead form factions to support one another, harming loyal men and concealing virtuous talents. I pray that Your Majesty carefully selects officials of both literary and military merit, allowing each to fulfill their duties with loyalty. If even a small portion of these suggestions is heeded, then songs of harmony will arise, justice will be restored, and order will prevail. I earnestly hope Your Majesty pays attention to my humble words.
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| | 吴志下: |
时殿上列将何定佞巧便僻，贵幸任事。凯面责定曰：卿见前后事主不忠，倾乱国政，宁有得以寿终者，何以专为奸邪，秽尘天听，宜自改厉，不然，方见卿有不测之祸矣。定大恨凯，思中伤之，凯终不以为意，乃心公家，义形于色。 |
| | At that time, General He Ding, who was stationed in the palace, was cunning and sycophantic, favored by the emperor and entrusted with important affairs. Lu Kai confronted He Ding directly, saying: "You have witnessed how those who previously served the ruler with disloyalty and overturned state affairs never lived to old age. How then can you persist in being a villain, defiling Heaven's ears? You should reform yourself and strive for improvement. Otherwise, soon enough, you will face unforeseen disaster." He Ding became greatly resentful of Lu Kai and plotted to harm him. However, Lu Kai never took this personally; he remained devoted to public affairs, his sense of righteousness clearly evident in his expression.
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| | 吴志下: |
疾病，皓遣中书令董朝问所欲言，凯陈何定不可任用，宜授外任，不宜干与事，姚信，楼玄，贺邵，张悌，郭逴，薛莹，或清白忠勤，或姿才卓茂，皆社稷之桢干，国家之良辅，愿陛下重留神思，访以时务。皓遣亲近赵钦口诏报凯曰：孤动遵先帝，有何不平，君所谏非也。又建业宫不利，故避之，而宫室衰耗，何以不可徙乎。凯上疏曰：臣窃见陛下执政事以来，阴阳不调，五星失晷，职司不忠，奸党相扶，是陛下不遵先帝之所致也。 |
| | When Lu Kai fell ill, Sun Hao sent Zhongshu Ling Dong Chao to inquire what he wished to say. Lu Kai stated that He Ding was unfit for important positions and should instead be assigned an external post; it would not be appropriate for him to interfere in state affairs . He also recommended Yao Xin, Lou Xuan, He Shao, Zhang Ti, Guo Chuo, and Xue Ying—some of whom were upright and loyal, others possessing exceptional talent and virtue—all were pillars for the state and capable assistants to the nation. He earnestly requested that Your Majesty pay close attention and consult them on current affairs. Sun Hao sent a trusted official, Zhao Qin, to deliver an imperial decree orally to Lu Kai: "I always follow the example of my late father. What injustice is there? Your advice is incorrect." Moreover, Jianye Palace was considered inauspicious, so we moved away from it. Now that the palace buildings have deteriorated and resources are depleted, why should relocation not be possible? Lu Kai submitted a memorial saying: "I secretly observe that since Your Majesty assumed governance, the yin and yang forces have been out of balance, the Five Planets have deviated from their proper positions, officials are disloyal, and factions of villains support one another. This is all due to Your Majesty's failure to follow the example set by your late father."
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| | 吴志下: |
夫王者之兴，受之于天，修之由德，岂在宫乎。而陛下不谘之公辅，便盛意驱驰，六军流离，就令陛下身得安，百姓愁劳，何以用治，此不遵先帝一也。臣闻有国以贤为本，夏杀龙逢，殷获伊挚，斯前世之明效，今日之师表也。中常侍王蕃黄中通理，处朝忠誉，斯社稷之重鎭，大吴之龙逢也。而陛下忿其苦辞，恶其直对，枭之殿堂，尸骸暴弃，邦内伤心，有识悲悼，咸以吴国夫差复存，先帝亲贤，陛下反之，是不遵先帝二也。臣闻宰相国之柱也。不可不强，是故汉有萧，曹之佐，先帝有顾，步之楷，而万彧琐才，凡庸之质，昔从家隶，超步紫闼，于彧已丰，于器已溢，而陛下爱其细介，不访大趣，荣以尊辅，越尚旧臣，贤良愤惋，智士赫咤，是不遵先帝三也。先帝爱民过于婴孩，民无妻者，以妾妻之，见单衣者，以帛给之，枯骨不收，而取埋之，而陛下反之，是不遵先帝四也。 |
| | The rise of a sovereign ruler comes from Heaven, and is sustained through virtue. How can it depend on the palace? Yet, Your Majesty does not consult with the senior ministers but instead acts on personal impulse, causing the six armies to suffer and become displaced. Even if Your Majesty personally finds peace, the people are burdened and distressed—how can this be considered good governance? This is one instance of failing to follow your late father's example. I have heard that the foundation of a state lies in virtue and talent. The Xia dynasty executed Long Peng, while the Yin dynasty gained Yi Zhi—these are clear precedents from previous ages and serve as lessons for today. Wang Fan, Zhongchangshi Huang Zhongtongli, was loyal and honored in court; he was a pillar of the state and the true "Long Peng" of Great Wu. Yet, Your Majesty was angered by his earnest words and offended by his straightforward answers. He was beheaded in the palace hall, and his corpse left to rot—this caused sorrow throughout the realm and grief among those with insight. All saw this as proof that Wu had once again produced a ruler like Fu Chai of old. The late emperor personally valued virtue and talent, but Your Majesty has done the opposite. This is another instance of failing to follow your father's example. I have heard that a chancellor is the pillar of the state. He must therefore be strong and capable. Thus, the Han dynasty had Xiao He and Cao Can as assistants; the late emperor had Gu Yong and Bu Zhi as exemplary chancellors. Yet Wan Yu is a man of petty talent and mediocre character. Once merely a household servant, he suddenly rose to high office in the imperial court. For him, this promotion was excessive in both honor and position. However, Your Majesty values his minor virtues while ignoring major qualities; you bestow noble titles upon him and elevate him above long-serving officials. This has caused righteous men to feel resentment and wise individuals to express outrage. This is a third instance of failing to follow the late emperor's example. The late emperor loved the people more than a parent loves an infant. When he saw men without wives, he gave them his concubines; when he saw those in single-layered clothing, he provided silk to clothe them. Even for unclaimed corpses, he arranged proper burials. Yet Your Majesty has acted contrary to this—this is the fourth instance of failing to follow your predecessor's example.
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| | 吴志下: |
昔桀，纣灭由妖妇，幽厉乱在嬖妾，先帝览览作鉴，之，以为身戒，故左右不置婬邪之色，后房无旷积之女，今中宫万数，不备嫔嫱，外多鳏夫，女吟于中，是不遵先帝五也。先帝忧劳万机，犹惧有失，陛下临祚以来，游戏后宫，眩惑妇女，乃令庶事多旷，下吏容奸欺，是不遵先帝六也。先帝笃尚朴素，服不纯丽，宫无高台，物无雕饰，而陛下徵调州郡，竭民财力，土被玄黄，宫有朱紫，是不遵先帝七也。先帝外杖顾，陆，朱，张，内近胡综，薛莹，是以庶绩雍熙，邦内清肃，今者外非其任，内非其人，陈声，曹辅，斗筲小吏，先帝之所弃，而陛下幸之，是不遵先帝八也。 |
| | 𝑙 In the past, Jie and Zhou were destroyed because of their concubines; Kings You and Li caused chaos due to their favored mistresses. The late emperor took these as warnings for himself, thus never allowing licentious women at his side or accumulating numerous concubines in the inner palace. Now, however, there are thousands within the imperial harem, yet even the ranks of consorts remain incomplete; outside, many men remain unmarried while women lament inside—this is a fifth instance of failing to follow your ancestor's example. The late emperor, despite his tireless efforts to manage countless state affairs, still feared making mistakes. Yet since Your Majesty ascended the throne, you have spent your time playing and idling in the inner palace, becoming entranced by women, which has caused many official duties to be neglected and allowed corrupt officials to act with impunity—this is a sixth instance of failing to follow his example. The late emperor cherished simplicity and plainness, wearing no luxurious garments; his palaces had no tall towers or ornate decorations. Yet Your Majesty levies heavy demands on the states and commanderies, draining the people's wealth and strength, covering the land with grand constructions of black and yellow (symbolizing imperial authority), while the palace is adorned in red and purple—this is a seventh instance of failing to follow his way. The late emperor relied on Gu, Lu, Zhu, and Zhang in the outer court, while near him were Hu Zong and Xue Ying within—this is why all affairs flourished and the realm remained orderly. Now, however, those outside are unfit for their posts, and those inside lack virtue; men like Chen Sheng and Cao Fu, petty officials of little worth who had been discarded by the late emperor, have gained Your Majesty's favor—this is an eighth instance of failing to follow in his footsteps.
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先帝每宴见羣臣，抑损醇醲，臣下终日无失慢之尤，而陛下拘以视瞻之敬，惧以不尽之酒，无异商辛长夜之饮，是不遵先帝九也。昔汉之桓灵，亲近宦竪，大失民心，今高通，羊度，黄门小人，而陛下赏以重爵，权以战兵，若江渚有难，则度等之武，不能御侮明矣。是不遵先帝十也。今宫女旷积，而黄门复走州郡，条牒民女，有钱则舍，无钱则取，怨呼道路，母子死诀，是不遵先帝十一也。先帝在时，亦养诸王太子，若取乳母，其夫复役，赐与钱财，时遣归来视其弱息，今则不然，夫妇生离，夫故作役，儿从后死，家为空户，是不遵先帝十二也。 |
| | The late emperor, during banquets with his ministers, always restrained the serving of strong wine; as a result, officials throughout the day never committed any act of disrespect or negligence. Yet Your Majesty now forces them to drink in order to show reverence and instills fear by making them consume excessive amounts—this is no different from King Xin of Shang's endless drinking binges at night—this is a ninth instance of failing to emulate your predecessor. In the past, Emperors Huan and Ling of Han favored eunuchs, which greatly alienated public sentiment. Now, officials like Gao Tong, Yang Du, and other lowly court attendants are being granted high ranks and entrusted with military authority by Your Majesty. If a crisis were to arise at the river islets, it would be clear that their so-called "military strength" could not possibly defend against an attack. This is the tenth instance of failing to follow your grandfather's example. Now, the imperial harem is overstocked with women, yet eunuchs are still sent to the states and commanderies to register and select daughters of commoners. If a family can pay money, they may be spared; if not, their daughter will be taken—this causes bitter complaints along the roads as mothers and children suffer painful farewells—this is an eleventh instance of failing to follow your forebear's example. When the late emperor was alive, he also raised his princes and crown prince. If a wet nurse were taken for service, her husband would be exempted from labor duties; money and goods were given to them at times, allowing them to return home and see their young children. Now this is no longer done—husbands and wives are separated by birthright obligations, fathers remain in forced labor, while the children die of neglect, leaving families destitute—this is a twelfth instance of failing to follow your former ruler's example.
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| | 吴志下: |
先帝叹曰：国以民为本，民以食为天，衣其次也。三者孤存之于心，今则不然，农桑并废，是不遵先帝十三也。先帝简士不拘贵贱，任之乡闾，效之于事，举者不虚，受者不妄，今则不然，浮华者登，朋党者进，是不遵先帝十四也。先帝战士，不给他役，江渚有事，责其死效，今之战士，供给衆役，廪赐不赡，是不遵先帝十五也。夫赏以劝功，罚以禁邪，赏罚不中，则士民散失，今江边将士，死不见哀，劳不见赏，是不遵先帝十六也。 |
| | The late emperor once lamented: "A state is founded on its people, and for the people, food is paramount; clothing comes second." He always kept these three principles in mind. Now, however, farming and sericulture are both neglected—this is a thirteenth instance of failing to follow your previous ruler's example. The late emperor selected officials without regard to their rank or status, appointing them based on the recommendations of local communities and judging their effectiveness through actual performance. Those who recommended were not mistaken, and those who received appointments did so justly. Now this is no longer the case—those with superficial charm rise to prominence, while factionalists advance in position—this is a fourteenth instance of failing to emulate his example. The late emperor ensured that soldiers were not burdened with other duties; when there was a crisis at the river islets, he expected them to give their lives in service. Now, however, soldiers are forced to perform numerous labor tasks and receive insufficient rations—this is a fifteenth instance of failing to follow his precedent. Reward is used to encourage merit, and punishment to deter wrongdoing. If rewards and punishments are misapplied, then soldiers and commoners will lose faith in the state. Now, border guards who die in service receive no sympathy, and those who labor hard receive no recognition—this is a sixteenth instance of failing to uphold your late father's way.
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今在所监司，已为烦猥，兼有内使扰乱其中，一民十吏，何以堪命，是不遵先帝十七也。夫校事吏民之仇，先帝末年，虽有吕壹，钱钦等，皆诛夷以谢百姓，今复张立校曹，纵吏言事，是不遵先帝十八也。先帝时，居官者咸久于其位，然后考绩黜陟，今州郡职司，或莅政无几，便徵召迁转，纷纭道路，伤财害民，于是为甚，是不遵先帝十九也。先帝每察竟解之奏，常留心推接，是以狱无寃囚，死者吞声，今则违之，是不遵先帝二十也。若臣言可録，藏之盟府，如其虚妄，治臣之罪，愿陛下留意。 |
| | Now, local officials are already burdensome enough, yet imperial envoys further disrupt their work. One commoner must now deal with ten bureaucrats—how can they endure such demands? This is a seventeenth instance of failing to follow your predecessors' example. Investigative officials are the people's enemies. In his final years, the late emperor executed Lü Yi and Qian Qin to atone for the suffering of the commoners. Now, Your Majesty has once again established such offices and allowed officials to report on matters freely—this is an eighteenth instance of failing to adhere to your father's example. During the late emperor's reign, officials held their posts for long periods before being evaluated and either promoted or demoted. Now, however, local officials in states and commanderies are frequently summoned and transferred after serving only briefly; this causes chaos on the roads, wasting resources and harming the people—this is a nineteenth instance of failing to follow your ancestors' example. The late emperor always carefully examined petitions and took great care in reviewing them, which is why prisons were free of wrongfully accused prisoners and the dead could rest without complaint. Now this practice has been abandoned—this is a twentieth instance of failing to follow your past ruler's way. If my words are worth recording, please preserve them in the archives of state; if they prove false or exaggerated, punish me accordingly. I humbly ask Your Majesty to give this matter your attention.
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楼玄字承先，沛郡人也。孙皓即位，为大司农，主殿中事，应对切直，渐见责怒，后人诬白玄与贺邵相逢驻共耳语，大笑，谤讪政事，遂被诏诘责，送付广州，徙交趾，别敕令杀之。 |
| | Lou Xuan, courtesy name Chengxian, was a native of Pei Jun. When Sun Hao ascended the throne, Lou Xuan was appointed Da Siniang (Minister of Agriculture) and in charge of affairs within the palace. He gave forthright and direct responses to imperial inquiries, which gradually led to resentment and anger from the emperor. Later, someone falsely accused Xuan of meeting with He Shao at a crossroad where they whispered together and laughed loudly, spreading slanderous remarks about government affairs. As a result, he was summoned by decree for interrogation and reprimand, then sent to Guangzhou, exiled to Jiaozhi, and separately ordered to be executed.
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贺邵字兴伯，会稽人也。孙皓时迁中书令，皓凶暴骄矜，政事日弊。邵上疏谏曰：古之圣王，所以潜处重闱之内而知万里之情，垂拱衽席之上而明照八极之际者，任贤之功也。陛下宜旌贤表善，以康庶政，自顷年已来，朝列纷错，真僞相贸，上下空任，文武旷位，外无山岳之鎭，内无拾遗之臣，佞谀之徒，抚翼天飞，干弄朝威，盗窃荣利，而忠良排坠，信臣被害，是以正士摧方，而庸臣苟媚，遂使清流变浊，忠臣结舌，陛下处九天之上，隐百重之室，言出风靡，令行景从，媾近宠媚之臣，日闻顺意之辞，将谓此辈实贤，而天下已平也。臣心所不安，敢不以闻。 |
| | He Shao, courtesy name Xingbo, was a native of Kuaiji. During the reign of Sun Hao, He Shao was transferred to serve as Zhongshu Ling (Minister of the Secretariat). Sun Hao was cruel and arrogant, and government affairs deteriorated day by day. Shao submitted a memorial remonstrating, saying: "Ancient sage kings were able to remain within the inner palace and yet understand conditions across ten thousand li of land, or sit idly on their cushions while clearly perceiving all directions at the edge of the world—this was due to the merit of employing virtuous officials. Your Majesty should honor the virtuous and commend goodness to ensure the well-being of all government affairs. Since recent years, court ranks have become confused and chaotic; true and false officials are interchanged, positions remain vacant at both high and low levels, there is no stability in the mountains and rivers outside, nor any ministers who correct omissions within. Flatterers with sycophantic hearts soar like birds on wings, interfering recklessly with imperial authority, stealing honor and profit while loyal and upright officials are pushed aside or cast down. Faithful subjects suffer harm; thus, righteous men lose their integrity, and mediocre officials fawn obsequiously, causing clear streams to turn murky and loyal ministers to fall silent. Your Majesty resides in the highest heavens, hidden behind a hundred layers of palace walls, where your words command like wind and your orders follow as shadows. You have grown close to flatterers who daily offer only agreeable words, mistakenly believing these individuals are truly virtuous and that the realm is already at peace. What troubles my heart, how could I dare not bring it to Your Majesty's attention?
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| | 吴志下: |
臣闻兴国之君，乐闻其过，荒乱之主，乐闻其誉，闻其过者，过日消而福臻，闻其誉者，誉日损而祸至，是以古之人君，揖让以进贤，虚己以求过，譬天位于乘奔，以虎尾为警戒，至于陛下，严刑法以禁直辞，黜善士以逆谏臣，眩耀毁誉之实，沉沦近习之言，故常侍王蕃，忠恪在公，才任辅弼，以酲酒之间，加之大戮，近鸿胪葛奚，先帝旧臣，偶有逆迕，昏醉之言耳，三爵之后，礼所不讳，陛下猥发雷霆，谓之轻慢，饮之醇酒，中毒殒命，自是之后，海内悼心，朝臣失图，仕者以退为幸，居者以出为福，诚非所以保光洪绪，熙隆道化也。又何定本趋走小人，仆隶之下，身无锱铢之行，能无鹰犬之用，而陛下爱其佞媚，假其威柄，使定恃宠放姿，自擅威福，口正国议，手弄天机，上亏日月之明，下塞君子之路，臣窃观天变，自比年已来，阴阳错谬，四时逆节，日蚀地震，中夏殒雹，参之典籍，皆阴气陵阳，小人弄势之所致也。臣尝览书传，验诸行事，灾祥之应，可为寒栗，昔高宗修已以消鼎雉之异，宋景崇德以退荧惑之变，愿陛下上惧皇天谴告之诮，下追二君攘灾之道，远览前代任贤之功，近寤今日谬授之失，清澄朝位，旌叙俊乂，放退佞邪，抑夺奸势，广延淹滞，容受直辞，祗承乾指，敬奉先业，则大化光敷，天人望塞矣。 |
| | I have heard that rulers who bring about a flourishing state are pleased to hear of their faults, while those who preside over chaos and disorder delight in hearing praise. Those who welcome criticism see their mistakes gradually disappear and blessings arrive; those who seek only flattery find their reputation eroded daily and calamity approaching. Therefore, ancient sovereigns would bow and yield to promote the virtuous, humbly seeking out their own faults, just as one might treat a chariot on a galloping horse or regard treading upon tiger tails with caution. As for Your Majesty, you employ severe punishments to suppress honest speech, remove capable officials who oppose your will, and become dazzled by false praise while sinking into the words of those close at hand. Take Chancellor Wang Fan: loyal and conscientious in public affairs, his talents were suited to serve as a trusted advisor. Yet during a moment of drunkenness, he was subjected to capital punishment. Recently, Honglu Ge Xi, an old minister of the late emperor, merely made a slight mistake or uttered some careless words while intoxicated—such minor infractions are not uncommon after three cups and are not considered grave under ritual norms. However, Your Majesty suddenly unleashed wrath like thunder, calling it disrespectful. He was given strong wine to drink, which poisoned him and led to his death. Since then, the realm has mourned deeply; court ministers have lost their direction. Officials in office regard retirement as a blessing, while those at home consider leaving for service as misfortune. This is truly not how one preserves the great legacy or promotes moral cultivation and virtue throughout the land. Moreover, He Ding was originally a petty man, no more than a servant or slave. His personal conduct is of the slightest virtue; he has no ability beyond that of a hunting dog or eagle. Yet Your Majesty favors his flattery and grants him authority, allowing Ding to rely on your favor and act recklessly, usurping power for himself, speaking falsely about state affairs, and manipulating matters of great consequence with his own hands. Above, this dims the brightness of the sun and moon; below, it blocks the path of virtuous men. I secretly observe changes in Heaven: since recent years, yin and yang have been out of balance, the four seasons have become disordered, solar eclipses and earthquakes have occurred, and hail has fallen in midsummer. Consulting ancient texts, all these are signs that yin forces have overpowered yang—caused precisely by petty men seizing power. I have often studied historical records and verified them against past events. The correlations between disasters, omens, and human actions are enough to send chills down one's spine. In the past, Emperor Gaozong of Shang reformed himself to eliminate the strange occurrence of a pheasant perching on his tripod; Duke Jing of Song elevated virtue to dispel the celestial omen of Mars. I humbly request that Your Majesty fear Heaven's warnings above and emulate these two rulers in removing disasters below, look far back at the achievements of past sovereigns who employed virtuous officials, and awaken now to today's mistaken appointments. Purify court positions, honor capable men, expel flatterers and villains, suppress corrupt power, widely recruit those long overlooked, accept honest speech, revere Heaven's will, and diligently uphold your ancestors' legacy. Only then can great moral influence spread throughout the realm, fulfilling both Heaven's expectations and the people's hopes.
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| | 吴志下: |
传曰：国之兴也。视民如伤，其亡也。以民为草芥，陛下昔韬神光，潜德东夏，以望哲茂姿，龙飞应天，四海延颈，八方拭目，以成康之化，必隆于旦夕也。自文兴，已来，法禁转苛，赋调益繁，在所长吏，迫畏罪负，严法峻刑，蹙，民求办，是以人力不堪，家户离散，呼嗟之声，感伤和气，又江边戍兵，宜时优育，以待有事，而徵发赋调，烟至云集，衣不全短褐，食不赡朝夕，出当锋镝之难，入抱无聊之戚，是以父子相弃，叛者成行，愿陛下宽赋除烦，省诸不急，夫民者国之本也。食者，民之命也。今国无一年之储，家无经月之畜，而后宫坐食，万有馀人，内有离旷之怨，外有损耗之费，使库廪空于无用，士民饥于糟糠。 |
| | The Classic says: "When a state is about to flourish," "it treats the people as if they were wounded ; when it is about to perish." it treats the people as mere weeds. In your past, Your Majesty concealed your brilliance and cultivated virtue in the east, with hopes for wise and flourishing talent. When you ascended to power under Heaven's mandate, all across the seas looked up eagerly and eyes throughout the eight directions were fixed on you, expecting that a Cheng-Kang era of peace and virtue would surely emerge within days. Since your ascension to the throne , laws and prohibitions have become increasingly harsh, taxes and levies more frequent. Local officials, pressured by fear of punishment, impose severe punishments and strict legal measures, causing unbearable hardship for the people who strive to meet demands. As a result, human strength is exhausted, families are torn apart, and cries of lamentation disturb the harmony of Heaven and Earth. Moreover, soldiers stationed along the riverbanks should be properly cared for in times of peace, ready for any emergency; yet levies and taxes arrive like smoke and clouds, so frequent that they overwhelm them. Their clothing is incomplete—only patched rags—and their food cannot sustain even one day or night. When they go out to face the dangers of battle, they return burdened with despair and hopelessness, leading fathers and sons to abandon each other, and deserters form lines. I humbly beg Your Majesty to lighten taxes, remove burdensome regulations, and eliminate all non-essential matters. The people are indeed the foundation of the state. Food is the lifeblood of the people. Now, the state has no reserves for even one year, and families lack provisions for more than a month. Yet within the palace, thousands of women sit idle and consume without labor. Internally, there are grievances over neglect; externally, expenses drain resources. This causes granaries to be emptied on useless consumption while scholars and commoners starve on scraps.
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| | 吴志下: |
又北敌注目，伺国盛衰，陛下不恃己之威德，而怙敌之不来，忽四海之困穷，而轻虏之不为难，诚非长策策作算，庙胜之要也。昔大皇帝创基南夏，割据江山，虽承天赞，实由人力，馀庆遗祚，至于陛下，陛下宜勉崇德器，以光前烈，何可忽显祖之功勤，轻难得之大业哉。臣闻否泰无常，吉凶由人，长江之限，不可久恃，苟我不守，一苇可航也。昔秦建皇帝之号，据淆函之阻，德化不修，法政苛酷，毒流生民，忠臣杜口，是以一夫大呼，社稷倾覆，近刘氏据三关之险，守重山之固，可谓金城石室，万世之业，任授失贤，一朝丧没，君臣繋颈，共为羁仆，此当世之明鉴，目前之炯戒也。愿陛下远考前事，近鉴世变，丰基强本，割情从道，则成康之治兴，而圣祖之祚隆矣。 |
| | Moreover, the northern enemy watches closely for signs of our strength or decline. Your Majesty does not rely on your own power and virtue but recklessly assumes that enemies will not come; you ignore the hardships of all under Heaven and lightly dismiss the possibility that the barbarians may cause trouble. This is indeed not a sound strategy or essential to securing victory in courtly planning. In the past, the late Emperor Da Huangdi established his foundation in southern lands and carved out a domain across rivers and mountains. Though Heaven aided him, it was truly through human effort that he succeeded. The blessings of his achievements have passed down to Your Majesty. Therefore, you should strive to cultivate virtue and magnify your talents to honor the legacy of those who came before. How could one possibly neglect the efforts and labors of our illustrious ancestors or take lightly this hard-won great cause? I have heard that fortune and misfortune are not constant; good or ill omens depend on human actions. The Yangtze River as a natural barrier cannot be relied upon forever. If we fail to defend it, even a single reed could ferry an enemy across. In the past, Qin claimed imperial titles and occupied the natural barriers of Xiaohan. Yet without cultivating virtue or moral governance, its laws became harsh and cruel, poisoning the lives of the people while loyal ministers remained silent. Thus, when a single man raised his voice in revolt, the state collapsed overnight. Recently, Liu's dynasty held the perilous Three Passes and defended the solid mountains, which could be called impregnable fortresses for ten thousand generations. However, due to mistaken appointments and failure to employ virtuous officials, it perished within one day; rulers and ministers alike were bound in chains, becoming captives. These are clear lessons from our time and vivid warnings before us. I humbly hope that Your Majesty will look far back to past events and closely examine the changes of our time, strengthening your foundation and cultivating virtue over personal sentiment. Only then can a Cheng-Kang era emerge, and the legacy of the sage ancestors flourish once more.
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| | 吴志下: |
书奏，皓深恨之，邵奉公贞正，亲近所惮，乃共谮邵与楼玄谤毁国事，俱被诘责，玄见送南州，邵原复职，后邵中恶风，口不能言，去职数月，皓疑其托疾，掠考千所，卒无一言，竟杀之家，属徙临海，并下诏诛玄子孙。 |
| | After the memorial was submitted, Sun Hao deeply resented it. He Shao's upright and loyal service to public affairs made him feared by those close to the emperor. Thus, they conspired together to falsely accuse Shao and Lou Xuan of slandering state matters. Both were summoned for interrogation and reprimanded. Xuan was sent southward to Nan Zhou, while Shao was initially allowed to resume his post. Later, Shao fell ill with a sudden stroke and could no longer speak; after several months away from office, Sun Hao suspected he had feigned illness and subjected him to brutal torture for over a thousand days. Yet Shao never uttered a single word, and in the end, was executed at home. His family members were exiled to Linhai, and an imperial decree was issued ordering the execution of Xuan's descendants as well.
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| | 吴志下: |
韦曜字弘嗣，吴郡人也。迁太子中庶子，时蔡颖亦在东宫，性好博奕，太子和以为无益，命曜论之。其辞曰：盖闻君子耻当年而功不立，疾没世而名不称。故曰：学如不及，犹恐失之，是以古之志士，悼年齿之流迈，而惧名称之不建也。故勉精厉操，不遑宁息，且以西伯之圣，姬公之才，犹有日昃待旦之劳，故能隆王道，垂名亿载，况在臣庶，而可以已乎。历观古今功名之士，皆有积累殊异之迹，劳身苦体，契阔勤思，平居不惰其业，穷困不易其素，是以卜式立志于耕牧，而黄霸受道于囹圄，终有崇显之福，以成不朽之名，故山甫勤于夙夜，而吴汉不离公门，岂有游惰哉。 |
| | Wei Yao, courtesy name Hongsi, was a native of Wu jun. He was transferred to serve as Zhongsu Zi (Attendant of the Crown Prince). At that time, Cai Ying also served in the eastern palace. He had a fondness for gambling and games; Crown Prince He considered this unproductive and ordered Wei Yao to compose an essay on the matter. His words read: "I have heard that gentlemen are ashamed to reach old age without achieving merit, and distressed at dying without a name worthy of remembrance. Therefore, it is said: 'Study as if you cannot catch up, and still fear losing ground.' Thus, ancient men of ambition mourned the passing of time and feared failing to establish a name for themselves. Therefore, they diligently refined their conduct and toiled without rest. Even the sage King Xi Bo or Ji Gong with his great talent still bore the labor of waiting until dusk for dawn; thus, they could elevate the royal way and leave a name lasting ten thousand years. How much more so should common subjects not cease in their efforts? Looking back at men of fame and achievement throughout history, all have left behind remarkable deeds accumulated through years of effort. They toiled their bodies and minds, endured hardships with tireless thought, remained diligent in ordinary times without neglecting their duties, and did not change their integrity even when impoverished. Thus, Bu Shi established his aspirations while farming and herding livestock, and Huang Ba received instruction within prison walls; ultimately, they both achieved great honor and left behind immortal names. Therefore, Shan Fu toiled day and night, and Wu Han never left the government office—how could there be any idleness or neglect?
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| | 吴志下: |
而今之人，多不务经术，好玩博奕，废事弃业，忘寝与食，穷日尽明，继以脂烛，当其临局交争，雌雄未决，专精鋭意，心劳体倦，人事旷而不修，宾旅阙而不接，虽有太牢之馔，韶夏之乐，不暇存也。或至赌及衣物，徙碁易行，廉耻之意弛，而忿戾之色发，其所志不出一枰之上，所务不过方罫之间，胜敌无封爵之赏，获地无兼土之实，技非六艺，用非经国，立身者不阶其术，徵选者不由其道，求之于战陈，则非孙吴之伦也。考之于道艺，则非孔氏之门也。以变诈为务，则非忠信之事也。以劫杀为名，则非仁者之意也。而空妨日废业，终无补益，是何异设木而击之，置石而投之哉。 |
| | Yet today's people often neglect scholarship and instead indulge in gambling and games, abandoning their duties and occupations. They forget to sleep or eat, spending entire days and nights without rest, continuing into the night with oil lamps burning. When they are engaged in a game, locked in fierce competition where victory is uncertain, they concentrate fully, exhausting both mind and body. As a result, personal affairs remain neglected, guests go unmet, and even if there were lavish banquets or elegant music like those of Shao Xia, one would have no time to attend to them. Some even gamble away their clothes and belongings, exchanging chess pieces for movement. Their sense of integrity weakens, while anger and resentment grow. Their ambitions do not extend beyond the confines of a single board; their concerns are limited to the boundaries of a few squares. Victory brings no reward of titles or ranks, and territorial gains yield no real expansion. These skills are unrelated to the Six Arts, nor do they serve national governance. Those seeking personal cultivation do not rely on such methods, and those selected for official service do not follow this path. If applied in battle, these games would not rival the strategies of Sun Tzu or Wu Qi. Examined against the principles of morality and artistry, they do not belong to Confucius' school at all. To prioritize deception and trickery is certainly not a matter of loyalty or trustworthiness. To take the name of ambush and killing is surely contrary to the intentions of a benevolent person. Yet such activities only waste time and neglect one's duties, ultimately yielding no benefit at all. What difference is there between this and setting up a wooden target to strike or placing stones just to throw them away?
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| | 吴志下: |
且君子之居室也。勤身以致养，其在朝也。竭命以纳忠，临事且犹旰食，而何博奕之足耽乎。夫然，故孝友之行立，贞纯之名彰也。方今大吴受命，海内未平，圣朝乾乾，务在得人，勇略之士，则受熊虎之任，儒雅之徒，则处龙凤之署，百行兼苞，文武并骛，博选良才，旌简髦俊，设程试之科，垂金爵之赏，诚千载之嘉会，百世之良遇也。当世之士，宜勉思至道，爱功惜力，以佐明时，使名书史籍，勋在盟府，乃君子之上务，当今之先急也。夫一木之枰，孰与方国之封，枯碁三百，孰与万人之将，衮龙之服，金石之乐，足以兼棊局而贸博奕矣。设令世士移博奕之力，而用之于诗书，是有颜闵之志也。用之于智计，是有良平之思也。用之于资货，有猗顿之富也。用之于射御，是有将帅之备也。如此，则功名立而鄙贱远矣。 |
| | Moreover, the dwelling of a gentleman should be one where... He toils diligently to provide for his family; when in office, he serves with diligence. He dedicates his life to offering loyalty and, even when facing affairs of state, still eats late into the evening—how then could he indulge in games? Thus, filial piety and brotherly affection become evident, and a reputation for integrity and purity is established. At present, the great Wu has received Heaven's mandate and yet the realm remains unsettled. The sage dynasty is earnestly striving to secure capable individuals. Those with courage and strategy are entrusted with positions of power like tigers or bears; those of scholarly refinement serve in esteemed offices symbolized by dragons and phoenixes. Virtues of all kinds are embraced, both literary and martial talents cultivated side by side. Outstanding men are widely selected, distinguished talents honored and promoted. Examinations are established to test ability, and golden titles offered as rewards—this is indeed a rare opportunity for a thousand years or more, an excellent encounter for a hundred generations. Therefore, the men of this age should strive to contemplate the highest principles, cherish their efforts and achievements, and assist in these enlightened times. Let their names be recorded in historical annals and their merits preserved in state archives—this is the foremost duty of a gentleman and the most urgent task for today. A single wooden board, how does it compare to the fiefdom of a state? A pile of three hundred dry chess pieces—how do they measure against ten thousand soldiers under one's command? The embroidered robes and music of jade and stone are more than sufficient to replace a game board or gambling. If the men of today were to transfer their energy spent on games and gambling into studying poetry and books, they would possess the aspirations of Yan Hui or Min Ziqian. If applied to strategy and wisdom, it would reflect the thoughts of Zhang Liang and Chen Ping. If directed toward managing wealth , it would bring the riches of Yidun. If applied to archery and chariotry, one would possess the readiness of a general or commander. In this way, merit and fame will be achieved while disgrace and lowliness will be far removed.
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| | 吴志下: |
孙皓即位为侍中，常领左国史，时在所承指，数言瑞应，皓以问曜，曜荅日，此人家筐箧中物耳，又皓欲为父和作纪，曜执以和不登帝位，宜名为传，如是者非一，渐见责怒，曜益忧惧，自陈衰老求去，皓终不听，皓每飨宴，无不竟日，坐席无能否，率以七升为限，虽不悉入口，皆浇灌取尽，曜素饮酒不过二二作三，升，初见礼时，常为裁减，或密赐菜茗，以当酒，至于宠衰，更见逼强，辄以为罪，又于酒后使侍臣难折公卿，以嘲弄侵刻，发摘私短，以为欢，时有愆过，或误犯皓讳，辄见收缚，至于诛戮，曜以为外相毁伤，内长尤恨，使不济济，非佳事也。故但示难问经义言论而已，皓以为不承用诏命，意不忠尽，遂积前后嫌忿，收曜付狱，华核连上疏救曜，皓不许，遂诛曜也。 |
| | When Sun Hao ascended the throne as emperor, Wei Yao was appointed Shizhong (Attendant-in-Ordinary) and often served as head of the Left National Historian. At that time, officials in charge followed imperial instructions closely and frequently reported omens of good fortune. When Hao asked about these matters, Yao replied: "These are merely things found in common people's baskets." Moreover, when Hao wished to compose a biography for his father Sun He, Yao insisted that since He had never ascended the throne himself, it should be called a 'zhuan' (biography) rather than a 'ji' (record of an emperor). There were many such instances where Yao defied imperial wishes, and gradually he came under Hao's resentment. Yao became increasingly anxious and fearful; he repeatedly petitioned to resign on grounds of old age, but Hao never agreed. Whenever Hao held banquets or feasts, they lasted the entire day. No matter one's status at the table, everyone was expected to drink up to seven sheng (about 21 liters) as a limit. Even if not all was consumed directly, it had to be poured out completely. Yao had always drunk no more than two or three sheng of alcohol. When he first received honors and was treated with courtesy, the emperor sometimes secretly gave him vegetables or tea in place of wine. However, when his favor waned, he faced increasing pressure to drink; refusal was considered a crime. Moreover, after drinking heavily, Hao would have court attendants challenge and humiliate high officials for amusement, mocking them harshly, exposing their private faults, and taking delight in such behavior. If someone committed an error or accidentally violated the emperor's taboo names, they were immediately arrested and bound, sometimes even executed. Yao believed that this external humiliation fostered internal resentment and hatred, leading to a court atmosphere of discord—this was not a good situation at all. Therefore, he merely posed difficult questions on classical texts and engaged in debates. However, Hao considered this as refusal to follow imperial decrees and took it as a sign of disloyalty. Accumulating past grievances and anger, Hao ordered Yao's arrest and imprisonment. Hua He repeatedly submitted memorials pleading for Yao's life, but Hao refused. Thus, Yao was executed.
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| | 吴志下: |
华核字永先，吴郡人也。为中书丞，孙皓更营新宫，制度弘广，饰以珠玉，所费甚多，时盛夏兴功，农守并废。核上疏谏曰：臣闻汉文之世，九州晏然，当此之时，皆以为泰山之安，无穷之基也。至于贾谊，独以为可痛哭及流涕者三，长大息者六。乃曰：方今之势，何异抱火措之积薪之下，而寝其上，窃以曩时之事，揆今之势，谊云复数年间，诸王方刚，欲以此为治，虽尧舜不能安，而今大敌据九州之地，有大半之衆，习攻战之馀术，乘戎马之旧势，非徒汉之诸王淮南济北而已，谊之所欲痛哭，比今为缓，抱火卧薪之喻，于今为急，诚宜住建立之役，先备豫之计，勉垦植之业，为饥乏之救，若舍此急，尽力功作，卒有风尘不虞之变，当委版筑之役，应烽燧之急，驱怨苦之衆，越白刃之难，此乃大敌所因为资也。如但固守，旷日持久，则军粮必乏，不待接刃而战士已困矣。 |
| | Hua He, courtesy name Yongxian, was a native of Wu Ju. He served as Zhongshu Cheng (Minister of the Secretarial Office). During Sun Hao's reign, new palaces were constructed with grand scale and adorned with pearls and jade, incurring great expense. At that time, construction projects began during the height of summer, causing both farming and defense to be neglected. Hua He submitted a memorial remonstrating: "I have heard that during the reign of Emperor Wen of Han, all nine provinces were at peace. At that time, people believed it to be as stable as Mount Tai and an unending foundation." Yet when it came to Jia Yi, he alone believed there were three matters so grave they called for weeping and wailing, and six that warranted only deep sighs. He said: "The current situation is no different from holding a fire beneath a pile of dry firewood and sleeping on top. Comparing past events with today's circumstances, Jia Yi believed that within just a few years, the feudal kings were still strong; yet even if one wished to govern in such conditions, not even Yao or Shun could bring peace. Now, our great enemy occupies nine provinces of land, commands more than half the population, has mastered advanced techniques of attack and defense, and continues to hold the momentum from past military campaigns. This is no longer merely a matter like the Han feudal kings of Huainan and Jibei. The reasons for Jia Yi's sorrowful weeping seem mild compared with today's urgency. His metaphor of holding fire while lying on dry firewood was urgent then, but it is even more so now. We should indeed halt construction projects and first prepare defensive strategies, encourage farming to provide relief from famine. If we neglect these pressing matters and instead exhaust our strength in building palaces, and if suddenly an unexpected crisis arises with war clouds gathering, we will have to abandon our construction efforts and respond urgently to alarms. We would then be forced to lead a populace already resentful and weary into battle against sharp blades—this is exactly what the enemy desires." If we merely hold out in defense and prolong the conflict, our military supplies will inevitably run short. Before even engaging in battle, our soldiers would already be exhausted.
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| | 吴志下: |
王者以九域为宅，天下为家，不与编户之民转徙同也。今之宫室，先帝所营，卜土立基，非为不祥，又杨市土地，与宫连接，若大功毕竟，舆驾迁住，门行之神，皆当转移，犹恐长久，未必胜旧，屡迁不可，留则有嫌，此乃愚臣所以夙夜为忧灼也。臣省月令季夏之月，不可以兴土功，不可以会诸侯，不可以起兵动衆，举大事，必有大凶，六月戊巳，土行正王，既不可犯，加又农月，时不可失，昔鲁隐夏城中丘，春秋书之，垂为后戒，今筑宫为长世之洪基，而犯天地之大禁，袭春秋之所书，废敬授之上务，臣以愚管，窃所不安，又恐所召离民，或有不至，讨之则废役兴事，不讨则日月滋蔓，若悉并到，大衆聚会，希无疾病，且人心安则思善，苦则怨叛，今当角力中原，以定强弱，正于际会，彼益我损，此乃雄夫智士所以深忧也。臣闻先王治国，无三年之储曰国非其国，安宁之世，戒备如此，况敌强大而忽农忘畜，若上下空乏，运漕不供，北敌犯疆，使周邵更生，良平复出，不能为陛下计明矣。书奏，皓不纳。 |
| | A sovereign regards the nine regions as his home and all under Heaven as his family; he is not like ordinary commoners who must migrate for survival. The current palace was constructed by the late emperor; its location and foundation were divinely chosen, not considered inauspicious. Moreover, the Yangshi land is adjacent to the palace grounds. If a grand new project is completed and the imperial court relocates there, all deities associated with the gates and pathways must also be transferred. Yet even this may not prove more enduring than the old site. Frequent relocations are impractical; remaining in place might invite suspicion. This is precisely why I have been deeply troubled day and night as a foolish minister. I have reviewed the Yue Ling (Monthly Ordinances), which state that during the last month of summer, one must not initiate earthworks, convene feudal lords, or mobilize troops for major campaigns. To undertake such actions is to invite great misfortune. On the Wusi day of the sixth lunar month, the Earth God holds supreme authority—this cannot be violated. Moreover, this is a season for farming; timing must not be missed. In ancient times, Duke Yin of Lu built Zhongqiu in summer, and the Spring and Autumn Annals recorded it as a warning to future generations. Now we construct palaces as if laying down an eternal foundation, yet violate Heaven's great prohibitions, repeating what was condemned by history, neglecting the highest duty of respecting the seasons for farming. As a foolish subject, I cannot help but feel deeply uneasy. Furthermore, I fear that some laborers may not arrive at all; if we punish them, construction will be delayed and affairs disrupted; if we do nothing, resentment will grow day by day. If all workers do come together in large numbers, illness is inevitable. When people are content, they think of virtue; when burdened, they become resentful and rebellious. Now is the time to compete for dominance in Central China and determine strength or weakness. At this critical juncture, any advantage gained by our enemies will be at our expense—this is precisely why wise men and strong leaders deeply worry. I have heard that in ancient times, wise rulers governed the state: if there were no reserves for three years, they would say the country was not truly theirs. Even in peaceful and stable times, such caution was observed; how much more so now when our enemies are strong yet we neglect farming and storage? If both upper and lower levels of society face shortages, and transport routes cannot supply provisions, should northern enemies invade our borders, even if Zhou Shao were to be reborn or Zhang Liang returned from the dead, they could not devise a clear strategy for Your Majesty. After the memorial was submitted, Emperor Sun Hao did not accept it.
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| | 吴志下: |
后迁东观令，领右国史，时仓廪无储，世俗滋侈。核上疏曰：今寇虏充斥，征伐未已，居无积年之储，出无应敌之畜，此乃有国者所宜深忧也。夫财谷所生，当出于民，趋时务农，国之上务，而都下诸官，所掌别异，各自下调，不计民力，辄与近期，长吏畏罪，昼夜催民，委舍田事，遑赴会日，定送到都，或蕴积不用，而徒使百姓消力失时，到秋收月，督其限入，夺其播殖之时，而责其今年之税，如有逋悬，则籍没财物，故家户贫困，衣食不足，宜暂息衆役，壹心农桑，古人称一夫不耕，或受其饥，一女不织，或受其寒，是以先王治国，唯农是务，军兴已来，已向百载，农人废南亩之务，女工失机杼之业，推此揆之，则蔬食而长饥，薄衣而履冰者，固不少矣。 |
| | Later, he was transferred to serve as Dongguan Ling (Director of the Eastern Pavilion) and concurrently held the position of Right National Historian. At this time, granaries were empty and society had become increasingly extravagant. Hua He submitted a memorial stating: "Now, our enemies fill the land and military campaigns have not ceased. We lack reserves for even one year at home, nor do we possess sufficient supplies to meet an enemy's challenge when marching out. This is something that any ruler should deeply worry about." Grain and wealth are produced by the people. Prompting the people to farm in accordance with the seasons is the highest priority for a state. However, various officials under the capital each have different responsibilities; they issue separate demands without considering the people's capacity, setting arbitrary deadlines. Local magistrates, fearing punishment, urge the populace day and night to abandon their farming duties and hurriedly fulfill these orders, delivering goods to the capital. Some of these supplies are stored but never used, yet this only exhausts the people's strength and causes them to miss planting seasons. By harvest time, they are again pressured to meet quotas, deprived of the opportunity to sow crops for the next year, while still being held responsible for current taxes. If any remain unpaid, their property is seized by official records. As a result, families grow impoverished, lacking even sufficient clothing and food. We should therefore temporarily suspend all labor levies and focus entirely on farming and sericulture. The ancients said: "If one man does not farm, someone may suffer hunger; if one woman does not weave, someone may endure cold." Thus, wise rulers of old prioritized agriculture above all else. Since the war began, it has now lasted nearly a century. Farmers have abandoned their fields and women have forsaken their looms. Judging from this situation, there must be many who eat little yet starve, wear thin clothes yet walk on ice—this is certainly not uncommon.
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| | 吴志下: |
臣闻主之所求于民者二，民之所望于主者三，二谓求其为己劳也。求其为己死也。三谓饥者能食之，劳者能息之，有功者能赏之，民已致其二事，而主失其三望者，则怨心生而功不建，今帑藏不实，民劳役猥，主之二求已备，民之三望未报，且饥者不待备羞备而后饱，寒者不俟狐貉而后温，为味者口之奇，文绣者身之饰也。今事多而役繁，民穷而俗奢，百工作无用之器，妇人为绮靡之饰，不勤麻枲，并绣文黼黻，转相仿效，耻独无有，兵民之家，犹复逐俗，内无担石之储，而出有绫绮之服，至于富贾商贩之家，奢恣尤甚，天下未平，百姓不赡，宜壹生民之原，丰谷帛之业，而弃功于浮华之巧，妨日于侈靡之事，上无尊卑等级之差，下有耗财费力之损，且美貌者不待华采以崇好，艳姿者不待文绮以致爱，五色之饰，足以丽矣。若极粉黛，穷盛服，未必无丑妇，废华采，去文绣，未必无美人也。若实如所论，有之无益，废之无损者，何爱而不暂禁，以充府藏之急乎。此救乏之上务，富国之本业也。使管晏复生，无以易此，汉之文景，承平继统，天下已定，四方无虞，犹以雕文之伤农事，锦绣之害女工，开国家之利，杜饥寒之本，况今六合分乖，豺狼充路，兵不离疆，甲不解带，而可以不广生财之原，充府藏之积哉。 |
| | I have heard that the ruler's demands of the people are two, while the people's expectations from their sovereign are three. The two demands are: to labor for him. To be willing to die for him. The three expectations of the people are: to feed those who hunger, allow rest for those who labor, and reward those who have served with merit. Now that the people have fulfilled these two duties toward their ruler, yet the sovereign has failed in all three expectations, resentment naturally arises and no achievements can be made. At present, state treasuries remain empty while the populace is burdened by excessive labor. The ruler's two demands are met, but the people's three hopes go unfulfilled. Moreover, a hungry person does not wait for delicacies to feel full; one who shivers in cold does not require fox or badger furs to feel warm. Fine flavors please the mouth, and embroidered garments adorn the body—these are luxuries, not necessities. Now, with many affairs and excessive labor levies, the people are impoverished while customs have become extravagant. Artisans produce useless objects; women create luxurious adornments. They do not toil over hemp or flax but instead focus on embroidered patterns and ornate designs, imitating one another until it becomes a shame for anyone to be without such finery. Even among soldiers and commoners, they follow this trend: lacking even basic grain reserves at home yet still wearing fine silk garments. As for wealthy merchants and traders, their extravagance is even greater. With the realm still unsettled and the people unable to support themselves, we should instead focus on cultivating the source of livelihoods and increasing food and textile production. Yet now, effort is wasted on frivolous craftsmanship and time consumed by luxurious indulgences. Above, there are no distinctions in rank or status; below, resources and labor are squandered. Moreover, beauty does not require elaborate colors to be admired, nor does charm need embroidered finery to attract affection. Simple hues are sufficient for elegance. Even if one uses the most elaborate cosmetics and wears the most splendid attire, it does not guarantee that a woman is beautiful; conversely, even without such adornments or embroidered finery, there may still be a true beauty. If these things are indeed as you have described—useless when present and harmless when absent—why not temporarily prohibit them to address the urgent needs of state treasuries? This is the top priority for alleviating shortages and the fundamental task for enriching the nation. Even if Guan Zhong or Yan Ying were to return, they could not improve upon this. During the reigns of Emperor Wen and Jing of Han, peace was maintained after a succession of stable rule; the realm had already been pacified, with no threats from all directions. Yet still, they considered carved decorations as harmful to farming and luxurious brocades as detrimental to women's work, opening up national resources while preventing the root causes of hunger and cold. How much more necessary is it now, when the six directions are divided in discord, wolves and jackals fill the roads, soldiers never leave the borders, and armor remains on their bodies—how can we not expand sources of wealth and replenish state reserves?
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