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  • Comprehensive Reflections to Aid in Governance(Part 193): Dislodging Spider Web by The Gang of Huo

    Comprehensive Reflections to Aid in Governance

    By Sima Guang

    Translated By Yiming Yang  

    Annals of Han Book 17 Scroll 25

    Duration of 6 years

    The Hometown of Xiao Wangzhi and Shu Guang, Lanling, Shandong Province

    The 3rd year of Emperor Xuan’s Di’jie Era (67 B.C.)

    In March of spring, an imperial edict was proclaimed, stating: “If merit be left unrewarded and faults unpunished, even the virtue of Emperors Yao and Shun could not transform the people. Now, the Prime Minister of Jiaodong, Wang Cheng, has diligently fulfilled his duties; the refugees under his administration have surpassed eighty thousand households, and his achievements are manifest. Let Wang Cheng be enfeoffed as Marquis Within the Passes, with the emolument of a two-thousand-picul official.” Before the decree could be carried out, Wang Cheng fell ill and died.

    Thereafter, another edict commanded the Chancellor and the Imperial Censor to investigate the affairs of the commanderies and provinces through the Chiefs of Staff and Associates of the Prefects who reported their records to the capital, in order to examine their execution of laws and decrees. Some officials memorialized, saying: “The late Prime Minister of Jiaodong, Wang Cheng, exaggerated his achievements to obtain undue reward. From this precedent, many inferior officials now seek hollow fame and empty titles.”

    In summer, on April 22, the Emperor installed his son Liu Shi as Crown Prince. He appointed Bing Ji as Grand Tutor and the Grandee of the Palace, Shu Guang, as Junior Tutor. The Emperor further enfeoffed Xu Guanghan, the maternal grandfather of the Crown Prince, as Marquis of Ping’en, and Huo Yun, General of the Household and grand-nephew of Huo Guang, as Marquis of Guanyang.

    When Grand Madame Huo Xian, the widow of Huo Guang, heard that the Crown Prince had been established, she was seized with rage and distress. She refused food, spat blood, and cried aloud: “This child is but of common birth! How can he be made Crown Prince? Should the Empress later bear a son, he would be but a prince beneath him!” Again she urged the Empress to poison the Crown Prince. The Empress often summoned the Crown Prince to dine, but the Nanny and Wet Nurse, by custom, always tasted the food beforehand, so the Empress’s scheme could not be carried out.

    On May 25, the Chancellor, Wei Xian, citing age and illness, requested leave from his duties. He was granted one hundred catties of gold and a four-horse carriage of honor, and retired to his residence. This was the first instance of a Chancellor’s retirement being formally approved.

    On June 7, Wei Xiang was appointed Chancellor. On June 16, Bing Ji was made Grand Master of the Censorate; Shu Guang was appointed Grand Tutor to the Crown Prince, and his nephew, Shu Shou, was made Junior Tutor.

    The Crown Prince’s grandfather, Xu Guanghan, Marquis of Ping’en, memorialized, requesting that his younger brother, Xu Shun, be assigned to oversee and protect the household of the young Crown Prince. When the Emperor consulted Shu Guang on this matter, Shu Guang replied: “The Crown Prince, being heir to the state, should be surrounded by worthy teachers and companions chosen from among the able men of the realm. It is not fitting to grant undue favor solely to the Xu clan, though Uncle Xu is his grandfather. Moreover, the Crown Prince already has his Grand Tutors and Junior Tutors duly appointed, and all attendants are in place. To add Xu Shun now as guardian of his household would appear superficial and unseemly, and would not elevate the Crown Prince’s virtue in the eyes of the people.”

    The Emperor commended Shu Guang’s counsel and reported it to Wei Xiang. Wei Xiang, moved by his discernment, removed his cap in respect, saying, “Shu Guang’s foresight surpasses us all.” Thus Shu Guang’s reputation for integrity and wisdom grew ever more illustrious.

    In the capital, there was heavy rain and hail. The Associate Grand Usher, Xiao Wangzhi of Donghai, submitted a memorial declaring that the concentration of power among a few great families had brought forth these calamities. The Emperor, having long heard of Xiao Wangzhi’s integrity and discernment, appointed him Imperial Usher. At that time, the Emperor earnestly sought out men of talent; many among the people presented memorials offering counsel and proposals. The Emperor ordered that such petitions be referred to Xiao Wangzhi for deliberation. Those whose proposals were substantial were recommended to serve under the Chancellor or in the Censorate; those of lesser merit were assigned magistracies with the rank of two-thousand-picul officials. They were tested in office and assessed after one year; those who proved unfit were dismissed. All matters proposed by Xiao Wangzhi received imperial approval.

    In October of winter, an imperial edict was issued, declaring: “On September 19, the ground was shaken by an earthquake, which greatly alarmed Us. We now seek those who can admonish Us for Our faults, and those who are virtuous and upright, that they may speak freely and correct Our deficiencies. Let there be no concealment before the authorities. Since Our virtue is wanting and cannot extend afar, the borders remain unsettled with troops. Now We command that the General of Chariots and Cavalry and the General of the Right withdraw their stationed forces, to lighten the people’s burdens; for prolonged deployments exhaust the realm and hinder its pacification.”

    Another edict proclaimed: “The fish ponds and aviaries that We have not visited shall be opened to the people, that the poor may share in their use. The palaces and mansions within the commanderies and provinces shall not be repaired or rebuilt. Those who have returned from exile or displacement shall be granted public lands and seed for planting, and shall be exempted from taxes and corvée.”

    The family of Huo Guang grew ever more extravagant and unrestrained. The Grand Madame Xian, enlarged their mansions with ornate halls and towers, and fashioned carriages and palanquins adorned with painted designs, embroidered silks, and gilded ornaments. Their wheels were cushioned with braided leather and cotton; attendants in garments of variegated silk drew her carriages when she took her leisure within the residence. Huo Xian engaged in illicit relations with her slave overseer, Feng Zidu. Likewise, Huo Yu and Huo Shan rebuilt and adorned their estates, holding horse races and diversions at the Pingle Resort.

    When summoned to court audience, Huo Yun often feigned illness, yet privately went abroad accompanied by many retainers. He hunted in the Huangshan Park, sending servants to stand in his stead at court; none dared to censure him. Huo Xian and her daughters passed in and out of the Changxin Palace at all hours, heedless of restraint or decorum. Their conduct exceeded the bounds of propriety.

    The Emperor, who had once dwelt among the common people, perceived the long-entrenched hubris and unchecked influence of the Huo clan, and discerned that disorder was festering within. When he took personal charge of state affairs, the Grand Master of the Censorate, Wei Xiang, often conferred with him on matters of government. Huo Xian said to Huo Yu, Huo Yun, and Huo Shan: “You neglect the charge left by the Grand General. Now, the Grand Master of the Censorate serves as the Emperor’s close adviser within the palace. Should he speak ill of you, what means do you have to save yourselves?”

    Soon thereafter, the retainers of the two households quarreled over precedence on the road. A slave of the Huo family sought to break down the gate of the Grand Master’s mansion. A Censor came forth and prostrated himself in apology, whereupon the slave withdrew. When word reached the Huo household, Huo Xian and her kin grew fearful, sensing that calamity was near.

    During the tenure of Wei Xiang as Chancellor, he often conferred with the Emperor in private. The Marquis of Ping’en, Xu Guanghan, and the Privy Counselor, Jin Anshang, freely entered and withdrew from the inner court. Huo Shan held authority over the State Secretariat. The Emperor decreed that officials and commoners alike might submit sealed memorials directly to the throne, without passing through the Secretariat; and that ministers might be received in a private audience apart from its supervision. This deeply displeased the Huo clan.

    The Emperor, having heard reports that the Huo family had poisoned Empress Xu but lacking conclusive proof, began to take precautionary measures. He appointed Fan Mingyou, Marquis of Pingling and son-in-law of Huo Guang—then serving as General of the Northern Garrisons and Commandant of the Weiyang Palace Guards—as Chamberlain. He dispatched Ren Sheng, husband of Huo Guang’s second daughter and formerly General of the Household and Supervisor of the Feather-Forest Guard, to serve as Prefect of Anding. After several months, Zhang Shuo, husband of Huo Guang’s elder sister and Grandee of Merit with duties as palace liaison, was sent to govern Shu Commandery. Wang Han, General of the Household and grandson-in-law of Huo Guang, was appointed Prefect of Wuwei. Later, Deng Guanghan, Commandant of the Changle Palace Guard and husband of Huo Guang’s eldest daughter, was transferred to serve as Privy Treasurer.

    On August 14, Zhang Anshi was made Guard General, with command over the palace guards, the city gates, and the Northern Army. Huo Yu was appointed Grand Marshal, yet he wore only a small cap and bore neither seal nor ribbon of office. The Emperor dissolved the military units formerly under his control, though Huo Yu still retained the nominal title once held by Huo Guang. Fan Mingyou, the Duliao General, was stripped of his seals and tallies, left only with his duties as Chamberlain. Zhao Ping, Commandant of the Cavalry, Cavalier Attendant, and Grandee of Merit, also son-in-law to Huo Guang, was likewise deprived of his seal and ribbon as Commandant of the Cavalry.

    All commanders of the imperial guards stationed about for eastern(residence of the Crown Prince) and western(residence of the Emperor) palaces—those of the frontier units drawn from the Nomad, the Yue tribes and the Feather-Forest guards—were replaced by men of the Xu and Shi clans, whom the Emperor trusted as his own kin and allies.

  • Comprehensive Reflections to Aid in Governance(Part 192): Stepping out of the Shadow of Huo Guang

    Comprehensive Reflections to Aid in Governance

    By Sima Guang

    Translated By Yiming Yang  

    Annals of Han Book 16 Scroll 24 (continued)

    A Book On Huo Guang

    The 2nd year of Emperor Xuan’s Di’jie Era (68 B.C.)

    In the spring, Huo Guang fell gravely ill. The Emperor went in person to visit him, wept at his side, and inquired after his health status. Huo Guang memorialized his gratitude, requesting that three thousand households be divided from his fief and given to his grandnephew Huo Shan, Commandant of Chariots, so that Huo Shan might continue the sacrifices of his deceased elder brother Huo Qubing. On that same day, Huo Guang’s son, Huo Yu, was appointed General of the Right.

    On March 8, Huo Guang died. The Emperor and the Empress Dowager themselves attended his funeral. A minister of two-thousand-picul rank was appointed to oversee the construction of his tomb, which was made in the manner of the imperial household, with a hearse and sepulcher of full honor. He was posthumously styled Marquis of Xuancheng. Troops of the Three-He commanderies—Henan, Henei, and Hedong—were sent to open the ground, inter his coffin, and raise his mound. Three hundred households were settled in his tomb-park, with officers appointed to tend and sacrifice. An edict decreed that his descendants should preserve their rank and fiefs for generations, exempt from levy and corvée.

    The Grand Master of Censorate, Wei Xiang, submitted a sealed memorial, saying: “The state has newly lost its Grand General. It is fitting to exalt and advance meritorious ministers, that no high office remain vacant, and that the frontier states may be reassured, so as to prevent contention for power. It is proper that the General of Chariots and Cavalry, Zhang Anshi, be appointed Grand General, and relieved of his post as Chamberlain. His son, Zhang Yanshou, may then assume the office of Chamberlain.”

    The Emperor inclined to this counsel. On April 17, Zhang Anshi was made Grand Marshal and General of Chariots and Cavalry, also the Recorder of the State Secretariat.

    That year phoenixes gathered in Lu, and a multitude of birds followed. A general amnesty was proclaimed throughout the realm.

    To honor and reward the virtue of the late Grand General, the Emperor enfeoffed Huo Shan, grandson of Huo Qubing, as Marquis of Leping, and made him Director of the State Secretariat and Commandant of Chariots.

    Wei Xiang, the Grand Master of Censorate, submitted a sealed memorial through Lord of Changcheng, Xu Guanghan, saying:

    “The Spring and Autumn Annals reproach the ministers of the realm: in Song the royal kindred held sway for three generations, and in Lu the Jisun usurped power; both brought peril to their states. Since the Houyuan reign of Emperor Wu, the system of rewards has slipped from the court’s control, and the governance of the realm has lain in the hands of mighty ministers. Now Huo Guang is dead, but his son again holds the post of General of the Right, and his brother’s grandson controls the central command. Brothers, brothers-in-law, and kinsmen fill the armies with power. Grand Madame Xian and all her daughters enter the Changxin Palace by day and by night, ordering its gates to be opened at will, indulging in luxury and extravagance. If their power is not diminished, if their influence is not checked, hidden plots may arise, and the foundation of the state will not be secure. It is fitting to pare down their strength, to prevent calamity in time, and to safeguard the heritage of the meritorious.”

    By custom, all petitions required two copies, one marked “duplicate,” first read in the State Secretariat, and if containing disfavor, withheld. Wei Xiang proposed, through Xu Guanghan, that he be allowed to present his memorial without the duplicate, so that it could not be obstructed. The Emperor approved, appointed Wei Xiang additionally as Palace Liaison, and accepted all his counsel.

    The Emperor himself, having been raised among the people, well understood their hardships. After the death of Huo Guang he took direct charge of the government, scrutinizing affairs with diligence, and holding hearings every five days. From the Chancellor to the lowest officials, all submitted reports and were examined for their merit. The achievements of the Privy Counselors and Secretariat officers were richly rewarded, extending even to their descendants, and this became a precedent faithfully observed. Thus the administration was orderly, the protocols complete, and from top to bottom harmony prevailed, with no trace of neglect.

    When appointing provincial inspectors, commandery prefects, and princely ministers, the Emperor himself inquired into their worth, observed their talents, and later judged their deeds to test their words. If speech and action did not accord, their hearts were revealed. He often said: “The people’s peace in their fields, and the lessening of their sighs and sorrows, come from upright governance. Of those who share with Us this charge, none are weightier than the ministers of two-thousand-picul rank.”

    He deemed the commandery prefect the root of order, and held that frequent removals disturbed the people. When the people knew their governors were settled long-term, and could not be deceived, they willingly followed the laws and teachings.

    Thus, when inspectors of the provinces showed skill in rule, the Emperor by edict praised and encouraged them, increased their stipends, bestowed gold, and raised their rank to that of Inner Marquis. When offices stood vacant, he appointed men from those recommended.

    Therefore, in the time of Han, virtuous officials flourished, and this age was acclaimed as a time of  renaissance.

    Upon the death of the Xiongnu Chanyu Huyandi, his younger brother, the Left Tuqi King, ascended the throne, taking the title Xulüquanqu Chanyu. He raised the daughter of the Right Grand General to be Grand Yanzhi, and deposed the former favorite, Zhuànqú Yanzhi. The Left Grand Zuqu, her father, nursed resentment.

    At this time the Han, deeming the Xiongnu no longer a threat, withdrew garrisons from the frontier towns to give rest to the people. The Chanyu rejoiced, and with his nobles resolved to seek peace and marriage with the Han. But the Left Grand Zuqu opposed it, saying: “Formerly, when Han envoys came, they brought soldiers with them. If we now imitate the Han, we too should first dispatch troops.” He then proposed to go forth with the Huluzi King, each leading ten thousand horses, to hunt along the southern border, and when they joined, to cross into Han soil together.

    Before they reached their march, three riders defected to the Han and disclosed the plan. The Emperor forthwith mobilized the border cavalry, sending the Military Supervisor under the Grand General Zhizhong, with four other commanders, to lead five thousand cavalry in three divisions, patrolling several hundred li beyond the passes. Each captured scores of men before returning. The Xiongnu, alarmed at the loss of their three riders, dared not advance and withdrew.

    That year the Xiongnu suffered famine. Of men and herds, six or seven in ten perished. They set two hosts, each of ten thousand horses, to guard against Han incursion. In autumn, led by their chiefs, thousands of the Xiru tribesmen, who had once submitted to the Xiongnu, were driven south with their flocks. They fought the Xiongnu at Otuo, and were bloodily repulsed. At length they broke through, descended south, and surrendered to the Han.

  • Comprehensive Reflections to Aid in Governance(Part 191): After A Large Earthquake

    Comprehensive Reflections to Aid in Governance

    By Sima Guang

    Translated By Yiming Yang  

    Annals of Han Book 16 Scroll 24 (continued)

    Anqiu, Shandong Province

    The 4th year of Emperor Xuan’s Benshi Era (70 B.C.)

    In March of spring, Huo Chengjun, daughter of Huo Guang, was established as Empress. A general amnesty was proclaimed throughout the empire.

    The former Empress Xu had lived humbly and with frugality; but when Empress Huo was elevated, the splendor of her carriages and entourages, and the rewards lavished upon officials, rose into the tens of millions. Thus the restraint of the former Empress was cast aside.

    In summer, on April 29, an earthquake shook forty-nine commanderies at once. Hills and mountains collapsed, city walls fell, buildings were destroyed, and more than six thousand perished. The ancestral temples in Beihai and Langya were also ruined. The Emperor issued an edict to the Chancellor, the Censors, the Marquises, and the ministers of two-thousand-picul rank, commanding them to confer with scholars versed in the classics, to examine the signs and omens, and to speak without concealment. He further ordered the intendants of the Three Metropolis regions, together with the Ministry of Rites and the internal commanderies, each to recommend one man of virtue and uprightness.

    A general amnesty was again proclaimed. The Emperor, in mourning for the loss of life by the earthquake, refrained from appearing in the main hall for five days. Xiahou Sheng and Huang Ba were released from prison: Xiahou Sheng was appointed Grandee of Remonstrance and Palace Liaison, while Huang Ba was made Inspector of Yangzhou.

    Xiahou Sheng was by nature simple and upright. His manner was plain and without ornament. At times he erred in speech, addressing the Emperor as “you” rather than “Your Majesty,” or calling ministers by their style-names in the Emperor’s presence. Yet the Emperor took no offense, and placed trust in him.

    Once, after discoursing with the Emperor, Xiahou Sheng repeated their words to others. The Emperor rebuked him. Xiahou Sheng replied calmly: “What Your Majesty has spoken is right; I merely magnified it. The teachings of Emperor Yao were spread through the realm, and are recited to this day. I thought it proper to transmit your words, and therefore I did so.” The Emperor, perceiving his sincerity, accepted it.

    In weighty councils, the Emperor trusted Xiahou Sheng for his plain dealing, saying: “Master Xiahou speaks truth. Let none withhold because of past faults.”

    Afterward he served as Treasurer of Changxin Palace, and then as Grand Tutor to the Crown Prince. At ninety years he died. The Empress Dowager bestowed two million cash for his funeral, and mourned in white for five days, as for a great teacher. Among the Confucian scholars he was held in the highest esteem, and they gloried in his renown.

    In May, phoenixes gathered in Anqiu and Chunyu of Beihai.

    The Prince of Guangchuan, Liu Qu, slew more than ten of his tutors, consorts, and attendants. Some he drowned with molten lead and tin poured into their mouths; others he dismembered, poisoned, and boiled, that none might survive. For this he was deposed and removed to Shangyong, where he took his own life.

    The 1st year of Emperor Xuan’s Di’jie Era (69 B.C.)

    In January of spring, a comet appeared in the west sky.

    The Prince of Chu, Liu Yanshou, suspected that the Prince of Guangling, Liu Xu, son of Emperor Wu, might ascend the throne should the order of succession be broken. Desiring to secure himself, he arranged for Zhao Heqi, brother of his mother-in-law, to take a daughter of Prince of Guangling in marriage. Liu Yanshou then bade Zhao Heqi to carry a letter to the Prince of Guangling, warning him to keep his eyes and ears keen, and not allow others to seize the throne. Zhao Heqi’s father, Zhao Changnian, reported this. When the matter was investigated, Zhao Heqi confessed. In November of winter, Liu Yanshou killed himself. The Prince of Guangling Liu Xu was not implicated.

    On December 30, there was a solar eclipse.

    That year Yu Dingguo was made Minister of Justice. Yu Dingguo was skilled in deciding difficult cases, impartial in judgment, and compassionate toward widows and orphans. In doubtful charges he reduced punishments, and always examined matters with care. The court praised him, saying: “When Zhang Shizhi was Minister of Justice, there were no unjust judgments in the empire. Now Yu Dingguo holds that office, and the people know themselves not to be wronged.”

  • Comprehensive Reflections to Aid in Governance(Part 190): Campaign of Five Generals

    Comprehensive Reflections to Aid in Governance

    By Sima Guang

    Translated By Yiming Yang  

    Annals of Han Book 16 Scroll 24 (continued)

    Qilian Mountain, Gansu Province

    The 3rd year of Emperor Xuan’s Benshi Era (71 B.C. continued)

    On January 18, the five generals set forth from Chang’an. The Xiongnu, hearing that the Han had launched a great expedition, fled with their aged and weak, driving off their herds and retreating afar. Thus the five generals gained but little success.

    In May of summer the campaign was concluded. Duliao General Fan Mingyou pressed beyond the frontier for more than twelve hundred li, reaching the Hou River in Puli, where he slew and captured more than seven hundred. General of the Front Han Zeng advanced over twelve hundred li to Wuyun, where he slew and captured more than one hundred. Pulei General Zhao Chongguo marched eighteen hundred li west to Mount Hou, where he slew and captured more than three hundred, among them the Xiongnu envoy, King Puyin. Learning that the foe had already retreated, he returned without attaining the set objective. The Emperor, not censuring their failure, showed lenience and spared them punishment.

    Qilian General Tian Guangming advanced sixteen hundred li to Mount Jizhi, where he slew and captured nineteen. There he encountered Han envoys, among them Ran Hong, returning from the Xiongnu. Ran Hong reported that west of Jizhi Mountain the Xiongnu forces still remained. But Tian Guangming forbade him to announce it, intending to recall the troops. Assistant Censor Gongsun Yishou urged that the host should press forward, yet Tian Guangming would not heed him, and withdrew the army.

    General of Tiger Fang Tian Shun advanced eight hundred li to the Danyuwu River, where he halted. He slew and captured more than nineteen hundred, then turned back.

    The Emperor censured the General of Tiger Fang for failing to meet his objective and for falsifying the number of those slain and captured. Qilian General, though knowing the Xiongnu remained, delayed and dared not advance. Both were impeached, and in shame took their own lives. Gongsun Yishou was promoted to Imperial Censor.

    The Wusun Kunmi, with fifty thousand horses, entered from the west together with Colonel Chang Hui. They came to the court of the Right Kuli King, seizing the Chanyu’s uncles, his sister-in-law, his daughters the princesses, the Liwu King, and his commandants, chiliarchs, and cavalry officers, in all forty thousand. They took more than seven hundred thousand head of horse, cattle, sheep, donkeys, and camels. The Wusun retained the captives for themselves. As the five generals gained no great success, and only Chang Hui accomplished his aim, he was created Marquis of Changluo.

    By reason of the vast flight, the loss of life and livestock, the Xiongnu suffered grievous hurt, and bore enmity toward the Wusun. The Emperor again dispatched Chang Hui with gold and silver to reward the Wusun who had rendered service. Chang Hui thereupon reported that the state of Qiuci had formerly slain Colonel Lai Dan, yet no vengeance had been taken, and urged that swift action be undertaken. The Emperor would not permit it, but Grand General Huo Guang upheld Chang Hui’s counsel.

    Chang Hui, with five hundred men, set forth to Wusun, passing through Qiuci. He levied twenty thousand troops from the nations west of Qiuci, ordered his deputy to raise twenty thousand from the nations east of Qiuci, and gathered seven thousand from Wusun. With these he encompassed Qiuci from three sides. Before battle he sent an envoy, demanding the king who had slain Han envoys. The King of Qiuci pleaded: “In the reign of my predecessor, I was deceived by the noble Guyi. I am innocent.”

    Chang Hui said: “If so, deliver up Guyi, and you shall be spared.” The king seized Guyi and gave him over. Chang Hui struck off his head, and then returned.

    There was a great drought.

    On June 11, Cai Yi, the Chancellor and Marquis of Yangping, died. 

    On June 26, Wei Xian, Treasurer of Changxin Palace, was appointed Chancellor. Wei Xiang, Minister of Agriculture, was made Grand Master of Censorate.

    In winter, the Chanyu of the Xiongnu himself led tens of thousands of horses to strike the Wusun, seizing many of the old and weak. As he prepared to withdraw, a mighty snowstorm fell, the snow more than ten feet deep in a single day. Men and cattle froze in great numbers, and many who sought to return could not.

    The Dingling from the north, the Xianbei Wuhuan from the east, and the Wusun from the west pressed upon the Xiongnu, slaying tens of thousands, and seizing countless horses, cattle, and sheep. Besides those slain, multitudes starved. Of the people, one in three perished; of the herds, one half. The Xiongnu was further weakened, their confederation undone, and they could no longer carry out raids upon the frontier.

    Later the Han sent more than three thousand horsemen in three columns into Xiongnu lands, taking several thousand prisoners. The Xiongnu, being pressed with adversity and powerless to respond, sought peace and reconciliation. The borderland was thereafter more tranquil.

    In this year, Zhao Guanghan, Prefect of Yingchuan, was appointed Intendant of Jingzhao. In Yingchuan it was the custom for great families to form factions. Zhao Guanghan devised a bamboo box with a narrow mouth, so that letters once cast within could not be withdrawn, to receive the complaints of officials and commoners, urging them to denounce one another. Thus enmities multiplied, the factions dissolved, and thieves and bandits could no longer unite in bands. Those of the Xiongnu who surrendered spoke his name; hence he was promoted to Intendant of Jingzhao.

    In office Zhao Guanghan was diligent and vigilant. He yielded merit to his subordinates, treated men with sincerity and fairness, and both officials and people were willing to serve him, even unto risking their lives. He had the gift of discerning the talents of men and employed them to the utmost. If any turned against him, he seized them swiftly, leaving no chance of flight. He examined cases and secured proof without delay, and justice was promptly done. In interrogation he was most skillful, laying bare hidden crimes and tracing to their roots, even the quarrels of kin and neighbors were within his grasp.

    In Chang’an there were youths who gathered in poor quarters to plot robbery. Before their designs were even fully uttered, Zhao Guanghan had them seized and examined, and they confessed their scheme. His uncovering of crime seemed near to the supernatural, as though he possessed insight beyond the common.

    By his governance, Jingzhao’s political atmosphere was enlightened and clean. Officials and people alike praised him; the elders of the city declared that since the founding of the Han, no man had equaled him in governing the Jingzhao.

  • Comprehensive Reflections to Aid in Governance(Part 189): Murder She Committed

    Comprehensive Reflections to Aid in Governance

    By Sima Guang

    Translated By Yiming Yang  

    Annals of Han Book 16 Scroll 24 (continued)

    Fuzi, A Poisonous Plant

    The 3rd year of Emperor Xuan’s Benshi Era (71 B.C.)

    On January 13, Empress Gong’ai Xu died. At that time, Grand Madame Xian, wife of the Grand General Huo Guang, desired to advance her youngest daughter, Huo Chengjun, to higher station, yet saw no means. It happened that Empress Xu, being pregnant, fell ill.

    There was then a woman physician, Chunyu Yan, favored by the Huo household, who had formerly entered the palace to attend Empress Xu. Her husband, Chunyu Shang, was a palace gatekeeper, and he said to her: “You should visit Grand Madame Xian, and in my name request the office of Supervisor of Anchi Pond.”

    Chunyu Yan accordingly went to Grand Madame Xian. Grand Madame Xian seized the occasion, dismissing attendants around her and received her in secret, and called her by her style-name, saying: “Shaofu, if you can do me a service, I shall assuredly requite it. Can you?”

    Chunyu Yan replied: “Whatever my lady commands, I can attempt.”

    Grand Madame Xian said: “The General has always loved our little daughter Chengjun, and longs to raise her station. I entrust this matter to you.”

    Chunyu Yan, startled, asked: “What can I do?”

    Grand Madame Xian said: “Childbirth is ever perilous; one may hardly escape the jaws of death. The Empress is about to give birth—this is the chance to rid ourselves of her with poison. Then Chengjun shall be Empress. If Shaofu can accomplish this, wealth and rank shall be shared with you.”

    Chunyu Yan hesitated, saying: “The medicines for the imperial house are compounded by many hands, and are always tested by others. How can poison be introduced?”

    Grand Madame Xian replied: “I am going to leave that to Shaofu. The General holds sway over the empire; who would dare to speak against him? If we act with care, no mishap will follow. My only fear is that Shaofu may not consent.”

    After a long silence, Chunyu Yan said: “I am willing to exhaust all effort.”

    Chunyu Yan compounded a potion with Fuzi(Carmichael’s monkshood) and other substances, and smuggled it into Changding Palace. After Empress Xu was delivered, Chunyu Yan mingled the poison with a great bolus prepared by the imperial physicians, and gave her to swallow.

    After a short while, Empress Xu said: “My head grows faint. Is there poison in the medicine?” Chunyu Yan answered: “There is none.” Soon the Empress’ distress increased, and she died.

    When Chunyu Yan departed from the palace, she ran into Grand Madame Xian on the way. They exchanged felicitations, though Grand Madame Xian dared not show her gratitude openly.

    Later, memorials were submitted accusing the physicians of mismanaging the care of the Empress. The Emperor commanded that all who had attended her be seized and cast into prison. Grand Madame Xian, struck with fear, hastened to inform Huo Guang, saying: “Since we have trespassed, do not permit the officials to pursue Chunyu Yan too closely!”

    Huo Guang was greatly shaken, and at first thought to deliver up his wife; but he could not bear it, and when he heard of Chunyu Yan’s part, he chose to conceal it.

    Thereafter, when the official report on the death of Empress Xu was submitted, Huo Guang ordered that Chunyu Yan not be investigated. Seizing the moment, Grand Madame Xian pressed Huo Guang to send their daughter into the palace.

  • Comprehensive Reflections to Aid in Governance(Part 188): Studying on Death Row

    Comprehensive Reflections to Aid in Governance

    By Sima Guang

    Translated By Yiming Yang  

    Annals of Han Book 16 Scroll 24 (continued)

    Xiahou Sheng And Huang Ba

    The 2nd year of Emperor Xuan’s Benshi Era (73 B.C. continued)

    In July of autumn, an edict was issued appointing Liu Jian, heir of Prince La of Yan, Liu Dan, as Prince of Guangyang; and Liu Hong, youngest son of the Prince of Guangling, Liu Xu, as Prince of Gaomi.

    Formerly, there had been strife between Shangguan Jie and Huo Guang. When Huo Guang destroyed Shangguan Jie, he then adhered to the statutes of Emperor Wu, applying severe punishments to restrain his subordinates. From this, lesser officials took severity as their model, believing harshness to be the mark of ability.

    But Huang Ba of Huaiyang, then Associate Prefect of Henan, always held leniency as his principle. When the Emperor went among the people, he perceived that the common folk suffered under the harshness of officials. Hearing of Huang Ba’s reputation for fairness and gentleness, he summoned him to serve as a chief judge in the Ministry of Justice. Huang Ba, in judging doubtful cases, was ever equitable, and thus maintained fairness and balance in the court.

    The 2nd year of Emperor Xuan’s Benshi Era (72 B.C.)

    In the spring, the Minister of Agriculture, Tian Yannian, committed suicide after being convicted of crime. When mourning for Emperor Zhao, he had leased carts from the people, but deceitfully inflated the rent, embezzling thirty million cash. An aggrieved party reported him.

    The Grand General Huo Guang summoned him for questioning, wishing to give him latitude. Tian Yannian vehemently denied it, saying: “Such a thing never happened!” Huo Guang replied: “Even if it did not, we must examine it to the end.”

    The Grand Master of Censorate, Tian Guangming, spoke to the Grand Coachman Du Yannian, saying: “According to the justice of the Spring and Autumn Annals, faults may be redeemed by merit. When the Prince of Changyi was deposed, without the resolute courage of Tian Zibin[Tian Yannian’s courtesy name], the great design could not have been accomplished. Now, if he had begged thirty million from the court itself and been granted them, would that not suffice? I would speak thus to the Grand General.”

    Du Yannian relayed this to Huo Guang. Huo Guang said: “It is true. He was a valiant man; at that momentous hour he shook the whole court.” Then he lifted his hand to his breast and said: “The memory still burdens my heart. Convey my apology to the Grand Master Tian, and entreat him to persuade the Minister of Agriculture to go to prison, that he may pass through lawful trial.”

    Tian Guangming delivered this message. Tian Yannian answered: “If the court would show me lenience, I would be grateful. But how can I endure the shame of prison, the laughter of men, and the spittle upon my back?”

    He then shut himself in a chamber of the Ministry of Agriculture, baring his arm, pacing with a blade in hand. After some days, hearing the drumbeat of envoys come to proclaim the edict, he cut his own throat and died.

    In May of summer, an edict was issued, saying: “Emperor Wu, in his filial piety, benevolence, and martial exploits, accomplished abundant virtue. Yet the music of his ancestral temple has not been established, which is a cause of great sorrow. Let the marquises, the ministers of two-thousand-picul rank, and the scholars deliberate upon it.”

    The officials engaged in wide discussion, and all assented to the decree. Only Xiahou Sheng, Privy Treasurer of Changxin Palace, spoke in dissent, saying: “Though Emperor Wu attained merit in pacifying the four barbarians and enlarging the borders, yet countless soldiers perished, and the wealth and strength of the people were drained. His extravagance and excess knew no bounds, and the empire was left in exhaustion. The dead were many, famine and locusts swept for thousands of li, and men even devoured one another. The injuries yet remain unrepaired, and the grace shown to the people was scant. It is not fitting to establish music for his temple.”

    The other officials rose together against him, saying that he opposed the imperial edict. But Xiahou Sheng declared: “An edict must not be obeyed without reflection. It is the duty of a loyal subject to speak plainly and directly, not merely to echo the ruler’s will. What I have said is from my heart. Though it cost me death, I shall not repent.”

    The Chancellor and the Censors accused Xiahou Sheng of opposing the imperial decree, of slandering the late Emperor, and of uttering blasphemy. Huang Ba, Chief-of-Staff to the Chancellor, was charged with shielding Xiahou Sheng and failing to impeach him. Both were cast into prison.

    Thereafter the authorities proposed to elevate the ancestral temple of Emperor Wu, styling it Shizong Temple, and to compose temple music with the “Magnificent Virtues” and the “Five-Colored Dance of the Wenshi Era.” In the provinces and counties that Emperor Wu had once visited, temples were erected in his honor, following the precedents of Emperor Gaozu and Emperor Wen.

    Xiahou Sheng and Huang Ba remained in custody for months. Huang Ba desired to study the Book of Documents under Xiahou Sheng, but Xiahou Sheng rejected, saying: “I am under sentence of death.” Huang Ba quoted Confucius: “If I learn the truth in the morning, I could die content in the evening.” Xiahou Sheng, moved by his earnestness, consented to teach him. Though imprisoned through two winters in succession, they never ceased their study and discourse.

    When the Princess who Liu Xijun had been wed to the Wusun Kunmi Cenzou died, the Han court once more sent Liu Jieyou, granddaughter of the Prince of Chu, Liu Wu, to Wusun, and she became wife to Cenzou. Cenzou had a young son, Nimi, born of his tribal consort. Foreseeing his own death, he entrusted the succession to his uncle’s son Weng’guimi, saying: “When Nimi comes of age, restore the throne to him.”

    When Weng’guimi ascended, he styled himself the Fat King, and again took to wife Princess Liu Jieyou of Chu. She bore him three sons—Yuan’guimi, Wan’nian, and Da’le—and two daughters.

    Under the reign of Emperor Zhao, Princess Liu Jieyou sent a memorial, saying: “The Xiongnu and Jushi have allied to assail Wusun. Only the Son of Heaven could save us.” The Han court gathered horse and soldier, deliberating an expedition against the Xiongnu. 

    Just then Emperor Zhao had passed away, the new Emperor dispatched the Grandee Chamberlain Chang Hui as envoy to Wusun. Both the Princess and the Great Kunmi sent envoys with letters, saying: “The Xiongnu have mustered hosts once again to attack Wusun, demanding: ‘Deliver to us the Han Princess at once!’ Their purpose is to sever Wusun from the Han. The Great Kunmi is willing to muster fifty thousand picked horsemen and exert full strength against the Xiongnu. Only the Son of Heaven can dispatch troops, to save the Princess and the Kunmi!”

    Formerly the Xiongnu had often harried the Han frontier, and the Han also longed to strike back. In autumn, a great host was levied: the Grand Master of Censorate, Tian Guangming, was made Qilian General, and with forty thousand horse rode forth from Xihe; Fan Mingyou, Duliao General, led thirty thousand from Zhangye; Han Zeng, General of the Van, led thirty thousand from Yunzhong; Zhao Chongguo, Pulei General, led thirty thousand from Jiuquan; and Tian Shun, Prefect of Yunzhong, was appointed General of Tiger Fang, leading thirty thousand from Wuyuan. Their design was to advance beyond the frontier by two thousand li. Chang Hui was made Colonel with the tally, to oversee the Wusun forces and unite them in striking the Xiongnu.

  • Comprehensive Reflections to Aid in Governance(Part 187): Leapfrogging to The Throne

    Comprehensive Reflections to Aid in Governance

    By Sima Guang

    Translated By Yiming Yang  

    Annals of Han Book 16 Scroll 24 (continued)

    Old City of Qi, Zibo(Qiansheng), Shandong Province 

    The 1st year of Emperor Zhao’s Yuanping Era (74 B.C. continued)

    After the deposition of the Prince of Changyi, the choice of successor was debated among the senior ministers, including Huo Guang and Zhang Anshi. As no decision was yet reached, Bing Ji submitted a memorial to Huo Guang, saying:

    “Grand General, you served Emperor Wu, bearing the charge of raising his heir from infancy, entrusted with the care of the entire realm. When Emperor Zhao passed away untimely, leaving no heir, fear and unease spread throughout the empire. On the day of the funeral, for the sake of the great enterprise, a successor was hastily chosen; but perceiving the choice amiss, he was deposed for the greater cause, and all under Heaven assented. At this juncture, the fate of the state, the ancestral temples, and the lives of the people depend upon your judgment.

    “I have listened to the voices of the people and observed the discourse regarding the princes of the imperial clan, yet have heard no worthy name outside the court. Meanwhile, within the harem by posthumous decree, the Imperial Great-Grandson Liu Bingyi has been fostered, reared under the care of the inner palace and his maternal great grandmother. When I once served at the commandery prison, I beheld him as a child. Now he is eighteen or nineteen years of age, well versed in the Confucian classics, of comely talent and serene bearing.

    “I earnestly entreat the General, considering the highest righteousness, to seek the judgment of the tortoise oracle; if it proves auspicious, then let him be appointed attendant to the Empress Dowager and enter the palace, so that all under Heaven may behold him. Then, with the world’s gaze upon him, the final decision may be made, to the blessing of the empire.”

    Du Yannian also discerned the virtue of the Imperial Great-Grandson, and urged Huo Guang and Zhang Anshi to establish him as successor.

    In July of autumn, Huo Guang, seated in the court, convened with the Chancellor Yang Chang and the ministers to deliberate, and together they memorialized, saying: “The Great-Grandson of Emperor Wu, Liu Bingyi, is now eighteen years of age. He has been instructed in the Book of Songs, the Analects, and the Classic of Filial Piety. He himself practices frugality, kindness, and benevolence. He is fit to succeed Emperor Zhao, to continue the sacrifices of the ancestral temples, and to nurture the people. We memorialize this, even at the cost of our lives.”

    The Empress Dowager decreed: “It is permitted.”

    Huo Guang sent the Minister of the Imperial Clan, Liu De, to the residence of the Imperial Great-Grandson at Shangguanli, where he was bathed and robed in imperial garments. The Grand Coachman dispatched a light carriage to escort him to the Ministry of the Imperial Clan.

    On July 25, Liu Bingyi entered Weiyang Palace, audience with the Empress Dowager, and was ennobled as Marquis of Yangwu.

    Afterward the court officials presented the imperial seal and ribbon, and he was formally enthroned as Emperor. He went to offer sacrifice at the Temple of Emperor Gaozu, and honored the Empress Dowager with the title of Grand Empress Dowager.

    The Imperial Censor Yan Yannian accused Huo Guang, submitting a memorandum, saying: “General Huo has deposed and established an emperor of his own will, not in accord with the rites of a loyal minister. This is not fitting.” Though the charge was dismissed, the officials of the court ever after revered and feared Yan Yannian.

    On August 5, Yang Chang, Marquis of Anping, died.

    In September, a general amnesty was proclaimed throughout the empire. 

    On September 5, Cai Yi was appointed Chancellor.

    Earlier, the daughter of Xu Guanghan had been wedded to the Imperial Great-Grandson Liu Bingyi. After one year she bore him a son, Liu Shi. Within a few months thereafter, the Great-Grandson became Emperor, and the house of Xu grew in influence. At that time the General Huo Guang had a young daughter, kin to the Empress Dowager. When the choice of an empress was under discussion, some secretly inclined toward Huo Guang’s daughter, but none dared to speak openly.

    The Emperor thereupon issued a decree, seeking for the old sword he had carried in his obscurity. The wise among the ministers discerned his inkling, and proposed the daughter of Xu Guanghan as the Empress. On November 9, Consort Xu(Jieyu[Lady of Handsome Fairness]) was established as Empress. Later, Huo Guang judged Xu Guanghan, who had been punished by castration, unfit to hold the title of a head of state. After one year, he was enfeoffed as Lord of Changcheng.

    The Grand Empress Dowager returned to dwell in Changle Palace, where guards were stationed for the first time.

    The 1st year of Emperor Xuan’s Benshi Era (73 B.C.)

    In the spring, an imperial decree ordered the ministers to deliberate on the merit of securing the imperial succession and continuing the ancestral sacrifices. The Grand General Huo Guang was augmented with a fief of seventeen thousand households, in addition to his former twenty thousand. The Chariot and Cavalry General, Zhang Anshi, Marquis of Fuping, together with ten others of lesser rank, all received increases of fief. Five men were enfeoffed as marquises, and eight were created Inner Marquises.

    The Grand General Huo Guang prostrated himself, humbly petitioning to return the affairs of state to the Emperor, but the Emperor refused, insisting that he continued his duty. He decreed that all matters must first be presented to Huo Guang for judgment, and only then submitted for imperial sanction.

    From the time of Emperor Zhao, Huo Guang’s son Huo Yu, and his elder brother Huo Qubing’s grandson, Huo Yun, both served as Generals of the Household. Huo Yun’s younger brother, Huo Shan, was Commandant of Chariots and Privy Counselor, commanding troops of the northern and southern tribes. Two sons-in-law of Huo Guang held the posts of Guard Commandants of the Eastern and Western Palaces. His kinsmen by blood and marriage—brothers, sons-in-law, and grandsons—crowded the court, filling the offices of administrators, grandees, commandants, and palace liaisons. Thus they formed a tightly bound faction.

    As the power of Huo Guang grew, especially after the deposition of the Prince of Changyi, his authority became ever more preeminent. In court audiences the Emperor humbled his bearing, withdrew his countenance, and displayed undue deference toward him.

    On April 10, in summer, there was an earthquake.

    In May, phoenixes gathered in Jiaodong and Qiansheng. A general amnesty was proclaimed throughout the empire, and the collection of land taxes and levies was suspended.

    In June, an imperial decree was issued, saying: “The former Crown Prince, who lies at rest in Hu County, has neither been granted a posthumous name nor received annual sacrifice. Let there be discussion on bestowing a posthumous title and establishing an estate for his tomb garden.”

    The officials in charge memorialized, saying: “According to the rites, when one inherits the title of a man, he must be accounted his son; thus the sacrifices to his true parents must cease, in order to honor the ancestral line. Now Your Majesty, as the descendant of Emperor Zhao, inherits the sacrifices of the imperial temple. We propose that the posthumous title of Your Majesty’s  true(biological) father be Prince Dao, and of Your Majesty’s  true(biological) mother be Queen Dao. Further, that the former Crown Prince, Your Majesty’s true grandsire, be posthumously named Crown Prince Li, and his consort, Lady Shi, be styled Madame Li.”

    All these were accordingly reburied with their proper honors.

  • Comprehensive Reflections to Aid in Governance(Part 186): It Takes A Nation to Raise An Imperial Great-Grandson

    Comprehensive Reflections to Aid in Governance

    By Sima Guang

    Translated By Yiming Yang  

    Annals of Han Book 16 Scroll 24 (continued)

    The Kingdom of Lu

    The 1st year of Emperor Zhao’s Yuanping Era (74 B.C. continued)

    Huo Guang, directing that memorials of state be submitted to the Eastern Palace, judged that the Empress Dowager should be instructed in the Confucian classics. He commanded Xiahou Sheng to expound the Book of Documents to her. Xiahou Sheng was then promoted to Privy Treasurer of Changxin Palace, and ennobled as Marquis Within the Passes.

    In former times, Crown Prince Liu Ju, born of Empress Wei, had taken to wife a Lady Shi of the kingdom of Lu, and she bore him a son, Liu Jin, styled the Emperor’s Grandson Shi. The Grandson Shi took to wife a Lady Wang of Zhuo Commandery, and she bore a son Liu Bingyi, who was styled the Imperial Great-Grandson. When the Great-Grandson was but a few months old, he was implicated in the witchcraft affair. The three sons and one daughter of the Crown Prince, with their wives and concubines, all perished in that calamity. Only the Great-Grandson survived, yet he too was cast into the commandery prison.

    At that time, Bing Ji, former Associate Minister of Justice of Lu, was charged by decree to investigate the witchcraft case. Knowing the Crown Prince to be guiltless, he grieved for the unjust suffering of the Imperial Great-Grandson. He chose trustworthy and compassionate women among the inmates—Hu Zu of Weicheng and Guo Zhengqing of Huaiyang—to nourish the child, and placed him in a drier and cleaner cell. Bing Ji himself came every other day to inspect.

    The witchcraft case dragged on unresolved. When Emperor Wu fell ill, he often lodged at the Changyang and Wuzha Palaces. Astrologers declared that an imperial aura arose within the prison at Chang’an. Emperor Wu therefore ordered that all prisoners there be executed, without regard to guilt or crime.

    One night the palace usher Guo Rang came with men to the commandery prison, but Bing Ji refused to open the gates, saying: “Within is the Imperial Great-Grandson. To kill the innocent is unlawful; how much more the close kin of the Emperor!” He barred the gates until dawn. Guo Rang returned and impeached Bing Ji.

    When Emperor Wu awoke and heard, he said: “This is Heaven’s intervention.” He issued a general amnesty, and only those imprisoned in the commandery residence were spared—preserved through the loyal protection of Bing Ji.

    Later, Bing Ji, deeming it unfitting that the Imperial Great-Grandson should remain in prison, instructed the warden Shei Ru to present a letter to the Intendant of Jingzhao. Shei Ru, together with Hu Zu, carried the letter, but the Intendant refused to receive it and sent them back. When the time came for Hu Zu’s release, the Imperial Great-Grandson clung to her with longing. Bing Ji then spent his own wealth to persuade Hu Zu to remain, and with Guo Zhengqing she continued to rear the child. After some months, Hu Zu was permitted to depart.

    Thereafter the county treasurer reported to Bing Ji that no decree authorized provisions for the Imperial Great-Grandson. Bing Ji again drew upon his own purse, each month supplying rice and meat. When the child fell ill, he arranged for wet-nurses without ceasing, and himself oversaw the use of medicines. Many times by such care Bing Ji drew the Imperial Great-Grandson back from the brink of death.

    When Bing Ji learned that Consort Shi, grandmother of the Great-Grandson, had a mother Zhenjun and a brother Shi Gong, he sent the child in a carriage and entrusted him to them. The aged Zhenjun, beholding her sole great grandson, was moved with compassion, and took upon herself the burden of nurture, cherishing him with utmost care.

    Later an imperial decree commanded that the Imperial Great-Grandson be raised within the inner palace, his name entered in the register of the Minister of the Imperial Clan. At that time Zhang He was Director of the Inner Palace. He had once served Crown Prince Liu Ju, and out of remembrance for former grace, pitied the orphaned scion. He tended the Imperial Great-Grandson with devotion, sustaining him and instructing him at his own expense. When the Great-Grandson reached maturity, Zhang He, seeking to strengthen his household bond, proposed to wed his granddaughter to him.

    At that time Emperor Zhao had just come of age. His stature was eight feet two inches. Zhang He’s younger brother, Zhang Anshi, served as General of the Right and assisted in the government. When he heard that Zhang He praised the Imperial Great-Grandson and even thought to marry his granddaughter to him, he grew angry and said: “The Imperial Great-Grandson is but a remnant scion of Crown Prince Liu Ju and Empress Wei. It is fortunate enough that the state sustains him with the livelihood of a commoner. How can you speak of wedding him to our granddaughter?” Zhang He, hearing this, abandoned the plan.

    At that time there was a clerk of the weaving chamber within the harem, eunuch Xu Guanghan. Zhang He gave a banquet and invited him. When the wine was deep, Zhang He said: “The Imperial Great-Grandson is a kin to the Emperor. At the least, he will bear the rank of Marquis Within the Passes. He would be a worthy match for your daughter.” Xu Guanghan agreed. On the morrow, when Xu’s wife heard of it, she was wroth; yet Zhang He pressed the matter, and in the end the marriage was made. Zhang He himself bore the expense of the dowry.

    Thus the Imperial Great-Grandson relied upon the support of Xu Guanghan and his brethren, together with his grandmother’s house, the Shi clan. He received instruction in the Book of Songs from Fu Zhongweng of Donghai. Though he was quick of wit and ardent in study, he also delighted in knight-errant’s hobbies, such as cockfighting and dog-racing. In this he came to know the ways of good and evil among the people, and to discern the success and failure of local administration.

    He roamed often through the counties and commanderies, visiting ancient tombs, and explored widely the Three Metropolitan regions of Jingzhao, Pingyi, and Fufeng. Once he met hardship near Lianshao Salt Lake, and he especially liked the counties of Du and Hu, and would often reside at Xiadu City. When entering court, he lodged in the quarter of Shangguanli outside the capital of Chang’an.

  • Comprehensive Reflections to Aid in Governance(Part 185): Weiyang Palace Putsch

    Comprehensive Reflections to Aid in Governance

    By Sima Guang

    Translated By Yiming Yang  

    Annals of Han Book 16 Scroll 24 (continued)

    Weiyang Palace Imagined

    The 1st year of Emperor Zhao’s Yuanping Era (74 B.C. continued)

    When the Prince of Changyi came to pay homage to the Empress Dowager, and was about to depart in his carriage toward the Wenshi Chamber, eunuchs held each door along the way. As the Prince entered, the doors were shut behind him, and the ministers of Changyi were barred from entry. The Prince asked: “What does this mean?” 

    The Grand General knelt and said: “The Empress Dowager has issued an edict, prohibiting the ministers of Changyi from entering.”

    The Prince said: “Take things calmly and slowly. Why cause alarm and frighten men?”

    Huo Guang thereupon ordered the ministers of Changyi expelled, and placed them outside the Golden Horse Gate. The General of Chariots and Cavalry, Zhang Anshi, led the Feathered Forest Cavalry, seized more than two hundred of the Prince’s minions, and delivered them to the Ministry of Justice for trial.

    Huo Guang commanded the eunuchs who had formerly served Emperor Zhao to guard the Prince, saying: “Be ever watchful! Should he die or take his own life, I would be accused of regicide, and the whole empire would be betrayed.”

    The Prince, still unaware of his deposition, said to those about him: “How could my ministers and attendants be guilty? Why has the Grand General seized them all?”

    Soon the Empress Dowager summoned the Prince of Changyi. When he heard the summons, the Prince was fearful, saying: “What offense have I committed, that I should be summoned?”

    The Empress Dowager, in a pearl vest, sat in a resplendent robe within the command tent. Several hundred attendants bearing arms stood about her, and guards with weapons were arrayed at the gates. The ministers entered the hall in order. The Prince of Changyi was called forward to hear the edict.

    Huo Guang and the ministers submitted a memorial of impeachment, and the Chief of the State Secretariat read it aloud:

    “Chancellor Yang Chang and the ministers, prostrate, dare to address the Empress Dowager: The late Emperor Zhao was cut off in youth, leaving no heir. The Prince of Changyi was summoned to perform the mourning rites, yet he donned mourning garb without true grief. He cast aside the rules of mourning, ate and drank at will, permitted his officers to convey women in covered carriages, and joined them in revelry at their lodgings. On his arrival he was forthwith proclaimed Crown Prince, and still he privately purchased chickens and swine for his meals.

    “He received the Imperial Trust Seal[for military command] and the Personnel Seal before the pall of the late Emperor, yet left them unguarded. He caused more than two hundred attendants and slaves of Changyi to be escorted into the palace, where they engaged in frivolities within the forbidden precincts. He even wrote a letter, saying: The Emperor greets the court attendants. I have ordered Gao Chang, Supervisor of the Changyi Treasury, to grant you a thousand catties of gold and bestow upon you ten wives.

    “Even while the pall of the late Emperor stood in the front hall, he opened the Music Office, called in the performers of Changyi to strike drums, sing songs, blow flutes, and play lewd and vulgar farces. He summoned the ensemble of the Grand Ancestral Temple and the physicians’ musicians to perform. He drove carriages through the Northern Palace and Gui Palace, staging contests of pigs and battles of tigers. He commandeered the Empress Dowager’s miniature carriage, with slave attendants mounted beside him, and rollicked about the courtyard. He committed lewd acts with palace women, even Lady Mong of the late Emperor, and through the Superintendent of the Courtyard issued an edict, saying: Whoever dares to leak this will be cut in twain at the waist!”

    The Empress Dowager said: “Wait a moment! As a subject, should one act with such wantonness?” The Prince of Changyi rose from his seat and prostrated himself.

    The Chief of the State Secretariat continued to read:

    “…He took the ribbons of princes, marquises, and officials of two-thousand-picul rank, together with the black and yellow insignia, and bestowed them upon his attendants and pardoned slaves of Changyi. He lavished gold coins, knives, swords, jade ornaments, and woven silks from the Imperial Treasury as rewards for revelry. He held night banquets with his officials and slaves, drowning himself in wine.

    “On a solitary night he feasted in the Wenshi Chamber, receiving his brother-in-law, the Marquis Within the Passes from Changyi, with the highest rites. Before the ancestral sacrifices had been offered, he sent forth a sealed command to dispatch an envoy to sacrifice to the late Prince of Changyi, his father Liu Bo, in the royal garden, and styled himself the ‘Successor Emperor.’

    “In the span of twenty-seven days after receiving the imperial seal, the Prince issued one thousand one hundred and twenty-seven orders to the various offices of government. He has abandoned himself to extravagance and debauchery, cast aside the rites and proprieties of an emperor, and thrown the governance of Han into disorder.

    “Chancellor Yang Chang and the ministers, again and again, offered admonition, yet he never amended his conduct, but daily grew worse. Fearing peril to the state and turmoil within the empire, the ministers consulted the learned, and all were of one accord: The sovereign who succeeded Emperor Zhao has engaged in licentious and lawless conduct, in defiance of filial piety.

    “The Classic of Filial Piety says: Among the five categories of crime, unfilial conduct is the gravest. In the Spring and Autumn Annals, it is recorded: King Xiang of Zhou mistreated his mother, and the heavenly king was driven from the capital to dwell in Zheng. His want of filial piety made him an outcast beneath Heaven.

    “The ancestral temple is greater than the throne. His Majesty has failed to receive Heaven’s mandate, to revere the ancestral temple, and to fulfill the duty of succession. Therefore it is meet and right that he be deposed. We request that a solemn offering of a great victim—ox, sheep, and swine—be made to the ancestral temple.”

    The Empress Dowager decreed: “It is permitted.”

    Huo Guang bade the Prince of Changyi rise and receive the decree. The Prince said: “I have heard it said: Though the Son of Heaven lost his way, if seven ministers remonstrate with him, the empire shall not be lost.”

    Huo Guang replied: “The Empress Dowager has decreed your deposition. How can you still call yourself Son of Heaven?”

    He then took the Prince by the hand, untied the ribbon of the imperial seal, and presented the seal to the Empress Dowager. He led the Prince down from the hall, out through the Golden Horse Gate, the ministers following behind.

    Facing west, the Prince knelt and said: “I am foolish and ignorant, unfit to bear the enterprise of Han!” Then he rose, mounted his carriage, and the Grand General escorted him to the residence of Changyi princedom.

    Huo Guang said with gratitude: “Sire by his own conduct has severed the bond with Heaven. I would rather betray Sire than betray the state. May Sire preserve himself; I, a subject, shall no longer attend at your side.” He departed in tears.

    The ministers memorialized, saying: “In antiquity, those deposed and banished were sent afar, severed from affairs of state. We request that Prince Liu He be relocated to Fangling county of Hanzhong Commandery.”

    The Empress Dowager decreed that Prince Liu He be returned to Changyi, granted a fief of two thousand households, and the possessions of his house restored. To the four daughters of the late Prince of Changyi, each was granted a thousand households. The principality itself was abolished, and its lands annexed to Shanyang Commandery.

    In the time of Liu He’s reign in Changyi, the court officials, though seated in office, made no report of his misdeeds. They concealed his faults from the Han court and failed to guide him in the righteous path, whereby the Prince fell into grave transgressions. Thereupon all were implicated, arrested, and more than two hundred were executed. Only the Commandant of the Capital Guard, Wang Ji, and the Chamberlain, Gong Sui, who had steadfastly remonstrated with a loyal heart, were spared from death. Yet they were shaven of hair and sent to labor upon the city walls.

    When Wang Shi, tutor to the Prince of Changyi, was cast into prison and faced death, the interrogator asked him: “Why did you not submit a memorial of admonition to the Prince?”

    Wang Shi replied: “Day and night I recited the three hundred and five poems of the Book of Songs to the Prince. Those chapters that speak of loyal ministers and filial sons, I recited again and again. When the odes told of rulers in peril and princes astray, I never ceased to weep and admonish. With all three hundred and five poems I made my remonstrance. What need did I have for a separate memorial?”

    The interrogator, moved by these words, commuted his sentence and spared him from death.

  • Comprehensive Reflections to Aid in Governance(Part 184): Athena Save The Day

    Comprehensive Reflections to Aid in Governance

    By Sima Guang

    Translated By Yiming Yang  

    Annals of Han Book 16 Scroll 24 (continued)

    Mattei Athena at Louvre Abu Dhabi, the Goddess of Wisdom

    The 1st year of Emperor Zhao’s Yuanping Era (74 B.C. continued)

    The Grand General Huo Guang was troubled in heart and distressed in mind. He sought counsel only from his trusted former colleague, the Minister of Agriculture, Tian Yannian. Tian Yannian said: “General, you are the pillar of the state. If this man proves unfit, why not present the matter to the Empress Dowager, and enthrone one worthy to inherit?”

    Huo Guang asked: “Is there any precedent for such a deed in antiquity?”

    Tian Yannian replied: “Yi Yin served as prime minister in the Yin, deposing Tai Jia for the security of the ancestral temple. Later ages have praised his loyalty. If the General acts thus, you will be the Yi Yin of the Han.”

    Huo Guang thereupon appointed Tian Yannian as Palace Liaison, and in secret conspired with the General of Chariots and Cavalry, Zhang Anshi, to lay their plan.

    While the Prince of Changyi went forth in an outing, the Grandee Chamberlain Xiahou Sheng of Lu stood before the imperial carriage and remonstrated, saying: “The heavens have long been overcast without rain; among the ministers there are conspiracies against the Son of Heaven. Whither does Your Majesty go?”

    The Prince was angered, and charged Xiahou Sheng with words of ill omen, commanding him to be bound and delivered to the authorities.

    The officials reported the matter to Huo Guang, yet Huo Guang did not take up the case. He laid blame upon Zhang Anshi, suspecting that their design had been disclosed.

    But Zhang Anshi had leaked nothing, and summoned Xiahou Sheng to question him. Xiahou Sheng said: “In the Classic of Documents, within the chapter Hongfan[Great Charter], it is written: ‘When the sovereign attains not the utmost virtue, calamities are constant and hidden. At such times there may be subjects who plot against their ruler.’ I dared not speak it outright, and so I said, ‘There are conspiracies among the ministers.’ This was what I meant.”

    Huo Guang and Zhang Anshi were greatly alarmed, and from this time depended more upon scholars versed in the Confucian classics.

    The Privy Counselor, Fu Jia, many times offered remonstrance, yet the Prince of Changyi had him seized and cast into prison.

    After Huo Guang and Zhang Anshi had resolved upon their course, they dispatched Tian Yannian to report to the Chancellor, Yang Chang. Yang Chang was stricken with fear, his countenance ashen, unable to utter a word. Sweat soaked his back, and he could only mumble incoherently. Tian Yannian withdrew to change his garments. The wife of Yang Chang hastened from the eastern chamber and said: “This concerns the fate of the state. Now that the Grand General has taken his stand, and the Nine Ministers have come to inform you, if you respond with hesitation, you shall be the first to suffer execution!”

    When Tian Yannian returned, Yang Chang and his wife spoke in unison, saying: “We await the command of the Grand General.”

    On June 28, Huo Guang assembled the Chancellor, the censors, the generals, the marquises, the officials of two-thousand-picul rank, the grandees, and the scholars in conference at Weiyang Palace. Huo Guang said: “The Prince of Changyi has thrown the realm into disorder and imperils the state. What course should be taken?”

    The assembled ministers were all astonished, their faces drained of color. None dared to speak; they mumbled only confused words. Then Tian Yannian rose, drew his sword, and said: “The late Emperor entrusted to the Grand General an orphaned child, laying upon him the charge of the whole realm, for he alone was deemed capable, by loyalty and wisdom, of preserving the House of Liu. Now this man has plunged the state into chaos, and the empire stands on the brink of ruin.

    “In the Han dynasty, those who upheld the line of sacrifice were often honored with the title ‘Filial,’ that their merits might endure with the ancestral temple. Should the imperial line be severed, even if the Grand General were to die, how could he face the late Emperor beneath the earth? Today’s decision must be swift and resolute. Any who waver or delay—I beg leave to strike them down with my sword!”

    Huo Guang bowed and apologized: “The fault is mine. The Nine Ministers speak rightly. The empire is in turmoil; I alone shall bear the blame.” The assembled officials all knocked their heads and said: “The lives of the people rest in the Grand General. We will follow your command.”

    Then Huo Guang, together with the ministers, entered to see the Empress Dowager and laid forth in detail the reasons why the Prince of Changyi could not be heir to the ancestral temple. The Empress Dowager took her carriage to Chengming Hall in Weiyang Palace, and issued an edict forbidding the ministers of Changyi to pass through any of the inner gates.