Book of Wei · Biographies of Yuan Huan, Zhang Fan, Liang Mao, Guo Yuan, Tian Chou, Wang Xiu, Bing Yuan, and Guan Ning

Yuan Huan, courtesy name Yaoqing, was from Fule in Chen Commandery. His father Yuan Pang was Han's Minister over the Masses.

While other sons of high ministers often violated the rules, Yuan Huan was quiet and principled, acting according to ritual. Appointed Officer of Merit, he caused corrupt commandery clerks to resign on their own. Recruited by a high minister's office and highly ranked, he became Attending Censor, then Magistrate of Qiao, but did not take that post. As Governor of Yu Province, Liu Bei recommended him as Outstanding Talent. Later, fleeing to the Yangtze-Huai region, he served Yuan Shu. Whenever consulted, he gave upright opinions that Yuan Shu could not refute and treated with respect. When Lü Bu attacked Yuan Shu at Fuling, Yuan Huan went to him and was detained. Lü Bu initially allied with Liu Bei, then quarreled. He ordered Yuan Huan to write an abusive letter to Liu Bei, but Yuan Huan repeatedly refused. Threatening him with a weapon, Lü Bu said, “Write and live; refuse and die.” Unmoved, Yuan Huan smiled: “I have heard virtue can shame others, not abuse. If he is a gentleman, he will not be shamed by your words; if petty, he will return them, leaving the humiliation here rather than there. I once served General Liu (Liu Bei) as I serve you now. If I leave you one day, would it be right to abuse you?” Ashamed, Lü Bu stopped.

After Lü Bu's execution, Yuan Huan joined Taizu (Cao Cao) <Great Ancestor; a temple name conferred on Cao Cao posthumously>.

Yuan Huan said, “Weapons are instruments of misfortune, used only from necessity. Lead through morality, campaign through righteousness and benevolence, reassure the people, and remove their afflictions. Then they will share life and death. Disorder has lasted more than ten years; people long for peace more urgently than men hanging upside down. Why does violence persist? Perhaps government has lost its Way. Enlightened rulers save the age, ordering chaos through righteousness and restraining falsehood through simplicity. Times change and government must respond. Institutional adjustments need not match antiquity, but universal care restoring people to the right, settling disorder by arms and completing it through virtue, is the unchanging way of a hundred kings. Your exceptional discernment pursues the ancients' means of winning people and avoids today's means of losing them. Through you the realm escapes destruction. Yet people do not understand righteousness. If you teach them, the realm will be fortunate.” Taizu (Cao Cao) accepted deeply and appointed him Southern Commandant of Pei.

People newly recruited for agricultural colonies disliked the work and often fled. Yuan Huan advised, “People value their homes and resist sudden change. Acting with their wishes is easy; against them difficult. Take willing participants and do not compel the unwilling.” Taizu (Cao Cao) agreed, delighting the people. As Chancellor of Liang, Yuan Huan instructed counties to care for the widowed and aged and honor filial sons and faithful women: “Rites are detailed in peace and simplified in disorder; all depends on judgment. Though troubled times make ritual transformation difficult, we must still do what we can.” He emphasized teaching and deliberated sympathetically before acting, outwardly gentle but inwardly decisive.

He resigned through illness and was missed by the people. Recalled as Grand Master of Remonstrance and Libationer in the chancellor's military staff, he distributed his many gifts and kept no reserves. He neglected private property and accepted help when short, avoiding ostentatious displays of purity, though contemporaries admired his integrity.

When Wei was established he became Prefect of Palace Attendants and Acting Censor-in-Chief. He told Taizu (Cao Cao), “Great troubles are gone. Combining civil and military methods brings lasting rule. Gather books widely and clarify the former sages' teaching to transform public understanding. Then distant peoples can be attracted through virtue.” Taizu (Cao Cao) approved. When Liu Bei was rumored dead, all the ministers congratulated him except Yuan Huan, who had once been recommended by Liu Bei. After several years he died. Taizu (Cao Cao) wept and granted two thousand hu of grain by separate orders: one thousand from the Grand Granary to the prefect's household, another thousand from stores beneath the walls to Yaoqing (Yuan Huan)'s family. To those puzzled, he explained, “The first follows official law; the second honors old friendship.” Hearing of Yuan Huan's refusal to abuse Liu Bei, he asked his younger cousin Yuan Min whether he was brave or timid. Yuan Min replied, “Outwardly gentle, but in grave duty and danger even Meng Ben and Xia Yu could not surpass him.” Yuan Huan's son Yuan Kan likewise possessed integrity and restraint, governing commanderies and becoming Master of Writing.

Yuan Huan's younger cousin Yuan Ba was conscientious and administratively capable, becoming Grand Minister of Agriculture early in Wei and sharing fame with He Kui of the same commandery. Yuan Ba's son Yuan Liang, He Kui's son He Zeng, and Yuan Kan were friends of equal reputation. Learned, upright, and steadfast, Yuan Liang detested He Yan and Deng Yang and wrote criticism of them. He became Intendant of Henan and Master of Writing.

Yuan Ba's younger brother Yuan Hui was known for plain scholarly conduct. During the disorder he fled to Jiao Province and refused the Minister over the Masses' invitation.

Yuan Hui's younger brother Yuan Min possessed military skill and liked hydraulic works, rising to Internuncio for River Embankments.

Zhang Fan, courtesy name Gongyi, was from Xiuwu in Henei. His grandfather Zhang Xin was Han's Minister over the Masses and his father Zhang Yan Grand Commandant. Grand Tutor Yuan Wei proposed a daughter in marriage, but he refused. Quiet and devoted to the Way, he ignored profit and glory and accepted no summons. His younger brother Zhang Cheng, courtesy name Gongxian, was also renowned, summoned as Correct and Upright, made Consultant, then Commandant of Yique. During Dong Zhuo's disorder he wanted to raise men against him. His younger brother Zhang Zhao, then Consultant and newly arrived from Chang'an, said, “Our numbers cannot match him. An improvised plan with untrained countrymen will hardly succeed. Dong Zhuo relies on arms without righteousness and cannot last. Better choose allegiance and wait for the moment.” Zhang Cheng agreed, resigned secretly, returned home, and fled with Zhang Fan to Yang Province. Yuan Shu invited Zhang Fan with full ceremony, but he pleaded illness and was not compelled. Zhang Cheng went instead. Yuan Shu asked, “When Zhou declined, Dukes Huan of Qi (Jiang Xiaobai) and Wen of Jin (Ji Chong'er) became hegemons. Qin failed and Han succeeded. With my broad territory and many people, may I rival Duke Huan (Jiang Xiaobai)'s fortune and Gaozu (Liu Bang)'s achievements?” Zhang Cheng answered, “Virtue matters, not strength. Unite the realm's wishes through virtue and even a commoner can achieve great rule. Merely usurp and act against the times, and the people will reject you. Who could raise you?” Displeased, Yuan Shu asked another time, as Taizu (Cao Cao) prepared for Ji Province, “A few thousand exhausted troops against one hundred thousand—does Lord Cao (Cao Cao) not misjudge his strength?” Zhang Cheng replied, “Han's virtue declines but Heaven's mandate remains. Upholding the emperor to command the realm, he can face even a million.” Yuan Shu's expression darkened, and Zhang Cheng departed.

After pacifying Ji Province, Taizu (Cao Cao) invited Zhang Fan. Ill, he remained at Pengcheng and sent Zhang Cheng, whom Taizu (Cao Cao) recommended as Grand Master of Remonstrance. Bandits captured Zhang Fan's son Zhang Ling and Zhang Cheng's son Zhang Jian. Zhang Fan went directly to request both boys, but they returned only his own. Thanking them, he said, “Your kindness is great. Though men love their sons, I pity Zhang Jian's youth. Let me exchange mine for him.” Admiring his righteousness, they returned both. After the Jing campaign, Taizu (Cao Cao) met Zhang Fan at Chen and made him Consultant and military adviser, treating him respectfully. During campaigns he regularly left Zhang Fan and Bing Yuan with the heir, telling Emperor Wen (Cao Pi) <Civil Emperor; a posthumous imperial title>, “Consult these two in every action.” The heir treated them as elders of his family. Zhang Fan relieved the poor until he had no surplus. Orphans and widows everywhere sought him. He refused no gifts but used none, returning them all when he left. He died in Jian'an 17. When Wei was established, Zhang Cheng became Libationer and military adviser in the chancellor's office and concurrent Administrator of Zhao, governing effectively. Before a western campaign Taizu (Cao Cao) summoned him to advise, but he died ill at Chang'an.

Liang Mao, courtesy name Bofang, was from Changyi in Shanyang. Loving study while young, he grounded judgments in the classics. Taizu (Cao Cao) recruited him as clerk to the Minister of Works; highly ranked, he became Attending Censor. With bandits troubling Taishan, he became its administrator. Within a short time over one thousand households came carrying their children.

Appointed Administrator of Lelang, he was detained by Gongsun Du in Liaodong and prevented from reaching his post, but never yielded. Gongsun Du told him and the generals, “Lord Cao (Cao Cao) is campaigning far away and Ye is undefended. If I take thirty thousand infantry and ten thousand cavalry straight to Ye, who can resist?” All the generals agreed.

Asked his opinion, Liang Mao replied, “The realm has suffered great disorder and the state nearly fallen. You hold one hundred thousand men yet sit watching events. Is that a subject's conduct? Lord Cao (Cao Cao) grieves for state and people, leading a loyal army against cruel rebels with unmatched service and virtue. Only because the realm is newly settled has he not punished you. If you now raise arms westward, your survival or destruction will be decided before a morning passes. Consider carefully!” The generals were shaken. After a long silence Gongsun Du said, “Master Liang (Liang Mao) is right.” Liang Mao later governed Wei Commandery and Ganling effectively. When Emperor Wen (Cao Pi) became General of the Household for All Purposes, Liang Mao was selected as chief clerk, then Left Military Adviser. After Wei's establishment he became Secretariat Supervisor, later Capital Commandant and Minister of Ceremonies. As crown prince, Emperor Wen (Cao Pi) again made him Grand Tutor, treating him with great respect. He died in office.

Guo Yuan [國淵], courtesy name Zini, was from Gai in Le'an and studied under Zheng Xuan.

Later he fled the disorder to Liaodong with Bing Yuan, Guan Ning, and others.

Returning home, he entered the Minister of Works' office under Taizu (Cao Cao). In public discussions he spoke frankly and seriously, without private dealings afterward. Taizu (Cao Cao) put him over expansion of agricultural colonies. He repeatedly proposed improvements, matched land and settlers, appointed officials according to population, and established clear assessments. Within five years granaries were full and people worked willingly. During the Guanzhong campaign he remained as chief clerk over home affairs. After Tian Yin and Su Bo's rebellion in Hejian was defeated, surviving followers faced execution. Guo Yuan argued that they were not ringleaders and obtained pardon for over one thousand. Victory reports normally multiplied one enemy death into ten, but he submitted the actual count. Asked why, he replied, “Exaggerated victories over foreign enemies magnify military achievement for public hearing. Hejian is within our realm. Though defeating rebels earns merit, I am privately ashamed that it was necessary.” Delighted, Taizu (Cao Cao) made him Administrator of Wei Commandery.

An anonymous defamatory letter angered Taizu (Cao Cao), who wanted its author identified. Guo Yuan requested the original be retained secretly. As it quoted the Two Capitals Rhapsodies extensively, he told his Officer of Merit, “This large commandery now contains the capital, yet few study. Select bright youths to send to teachers.” Three were chosen. Before departure he said, “Beyond what you have learned, the Two Capitals Rhapsodies contains broad knowledge but is neglected and has few teachers. Find someone able to read it.” He also gave secret instructions. Within ten days they found a teacher. An officer asked him to write a letter; its handwriting matched the anonymous one. Arrest and interrogation established the case. Guo Yuan became Minister Coachman. Holding ministerial rank, he wore plain cloth and ate vegetables, distributed his income to kin and old friends, and maintained frugality until dying in office.

Tian Chou, courtesy name Zitai, was from Wuzhong in Youbeiping and liked reading and swordsmanship. In Chuping 1, when loyal armies rose and Dong Zhuo moved the emperor to Chang'an, Governor of You Province Liu Yu said, “A traitor disorders the state and drives the court into flight, while everyone wavers. As an elder of the imperial clan, I cannot behave like the rest. I want an envoy to demonstrate my loyalty. Who will not disgrace the mission?” All recommended young Tian Chou, then twenty-two. Liu Yu received him ceremonially, delighted in him, appointed him attendant, and prepared carriages and horses. Tian Chou said, “Blocked roads and roaming enemies make an official mission conspicuous. Let me travel privately and simply seek to arrive.” Liu Yu agreed. Tian Chou selected twenty riders from his household and brave young volunteers. Liu Yu personally gave a farewell ceremony.

Tian Chou went west through the frontier, followed northern routes toward Shuofang, and reached Chang'an by secret paths. Appointed Cavalry Commandant, he refused honors while the displaced emperor remained insecure, winning the court's admiration. He refused invitations from all three chief offices. Returning with the response, he found Liu Yu already killed by Gongsun Zan. At the tomb he presented the documents, wept, and departed. Gongsun Zan angrily captured him: “Why mourn Liu Yu without delivering the reply to me?” Tian Chou answered, “Han declines and men harbor different purposes. Only Lord Liu (Liu Yu) preserved loyalty. The reply speaks unfavorably of you; I feared you would not welcome it. Seeking great affairs, you have killed an innocent lord and now hate his righteous servant. If this continues, Yan and Zhao's scholars will drown themselves in the eastern sea rather than serve you.” Admiring his courage, Gongsun Zan spared him but detained him and barred old friends from contact. Warned that mistreating a righteous man would lose hearts, he released him.

Returning north, Tian Chou gathered several hundred relatives and followers, cleared a place, and swore, “Until my lord is avenged, I cannot stand in the world!” They settled on defensible, open land deep in Mount Xuwu, where he farmed to support his parents. Within years over five thousand households joined. He told the elders, “You came far despite my unworthiness. We now form a town without unified leadership, no lasting security. Choose a worthy elder to lead.” All nominated him. He said, “We came not merely for comfort but to pursue great affairs and avenge disgrace. Before achieving that, petty men may injure one another for immediate gain. May I establish rules?” They agreed. He created over twenty provisions for killing, injury, theft, and litigation, with death for serious crimes, also regulating marriage and founding schools. Everyone found them convenient, and lost goods remained untouched on the roads. Northern peoples respected him; Wuhuan and Xianbei sent interpreters with tribute. He received them and restrained raiding. Yuan Shao repeatedly invited him and sent a general's seal to recognize his followers, but he refused. Yuan Shang later invited him, also without success.

Resenting Wuhuan attacks on his commandery's officials, Tian Chou wished to campaign but lacked strength. Before the northern expedition in Jian'an 12, Taizu (Cao Cao) sent an invitation and had Tian Yu explain it. Tian Chou hurried preparations. Asked why he had refused Yuan Shao's five invitations but rushed at Cao Cao's first, he smiled, “You do not understand this.” He joined the army as clerk in the Minister of Works' Household Office and was consulted. Next day Taizu (Cao Cao) ordered, “Tian Zitai [Tian Chou] should not be my subordinate official,” recommended him as Outstanding Talent, and appointed him Magistrate of Tiao. He did not go but accompanied the army to Wuzhong. Summer rains flooded the low coastal route, making mud impassable while enemies held the key paths. Tian Chou explained, “Summer and autumn flooding is too shallow for boats but too deep for carts. Old Beiping's seat was Pinggang, reached through Lulong on the way to Liucheng. Ruined since Jianwu, nearly two hundred years ago, it retains a narrow path. The enemy expects us to fail at Wuzhong and withdraw. Turn secretly through Lulong, cross Baitan's difficult ground, and emerge through empty territory by a short route. Tadun's head can be taken almost without battle.” Taizu (Cao Cao) agreed, withdrew, and posted a large wooden sign beside the flooded road: “Summer makes passage impossible. We await autumn and winter to advance again.” Enemy scouts believed him gone. Tian Chou guided the army through Mount Xuwu, Lulong, and Pinggang to White Wolf Hill. Only two hundred li from Liucheng did the enemy realize. Their chanyu personally fought; Taizu (Cao Cao) defeated them and pursued to Liucheng. Returning inside the frontier, he made Tian Chou a village marquis with five hundred households.

Tian Chou considered that he had originally fled danger with his followers and failed to establish his righteous purpose. Profit from that was not his intention, so he firmly declined. Knowing his sincerity, Taizu (Cao Cao) allowed it.

When Liaodong sent Yuan Shang's head, an order forbade mourning on pain of death. Having once been invited by Yuan Shang, Tian Chou went to sacrifice and mourn. Taizu (Cao Cao) did not question him.

He moved over three hundred households of kin to Ye and distributed Taizu (Cao Cao)'s gifts among them and old friends. After the Jing campaign, regretting acceptance of his refusal, Taizu (Cao Cao) said, “I fulfilled one man's wishes but damaged the state's law of reward.” He offered the former title again.

Tian Chou memorialized his sincerity, swearing by death. After three or four attempts he still refused. Officials charged him with stubborn narrowness and recommended dismissal and punishment. Taizu (Cao Cao) hesitated, then sought the heir's and ministers' views. The heir compared him to Ziwen declining salary and Shen Baoxu fleeing reward and favored respecting his resolve. Secretariat Director Xun Yu and Colonel Director of Retainers Zhong Yao agreed.

Taizu (Cao Cao) still wanted to enfeoff him and sent his friend Xiahou Dun to persuade him without disclosing the instruction. Tian Chou recognized the purpose and remained silent. At departure Xiahou Dun touched his back: “Can you not consider our lord's earnest wish?” Tian Chou replied, “What an excessive statement! I am a fugitive who failed his duty. Survival through favor is already fortunate. Shall I sell Lulong's pass for salary? Even if the state favors me privately, would I not feel shame? You know me, yet say this. If compelled, I will cut my throat before you.” Tears streamed before he finished. Xiahou Dun reported, and Taizu (Cao Cao), recognizing he could not bend, made him Consultant instead. He died at forty-six; his son also died early. Upon accession Emperor Wen (Cao Pi) honored his virtue by making his clan grandson Tian Xu Marquis within the Passes to continue his line.

Wang Xiu, courtesy name Shuzhi, was from Yingling in Beihai. His mother died when he was seven, on the soil festival. Next year's neighborhood celebration recalled her and made him grieve so deeply that the neighbors canceled it. At twenty he studied in Nanyang and stayed with Zhang Feng. When the whole household became ill without anyone to care for them, he tended them until recovery. During Chuping, Kong Rong recruited him as registrar and Acting Magistrate of Gaomi. The powerful Sun clan sheltered lawbreaking clients. When a kidnapper fled there and officers could not arrest him, Wang Xiu surrounded the residence. Fearing resistance, his men held back. “Anyone refusing attack shares the crime,” he ordered. The Suns surrendered the criminal, intimidating powerful families. Recommended as Filial and Incorrupt, he tried to yield to Bing Yuan, but Kong Rong refused.

Disorder prevented his departure. When rebellion threatened Kong Rong, Wang Xiu hurried to him by night. As it began, Kong Rong said, “Only Wang Xiu will brave danger to come.” He arrived as the words ended and became Officer of Merit. With banditry in Jiaodong, he became Acting Magistrate there. Gongsha Lu's clan had fortified itself and refused levies. Wang Xiu rode directly inside with a few horsemen and executed Gongsha Lu and his brothers. The shocked clan dared not move. Reassuring the remainder, he reduced banditry. Whatever Kong Rong's danger, he came even from leave at home, repeatedly securing his escape.

Yuan Tan recruited Wang Xiu as Administrative Attendant in Qing Province. Assistant Administrator Liu Xian repeatedly criticized him, yet when Liu Xian faced death, Wang Xiu defended and saved him, winning greater praise. Yuan Shao made him Magistrate of Jimo, and he later became Yuan Tan's assistant administrator. After Yuan Shao died and Yuan Shang defeated Yuan Tan, Wang Xiu led officials and people to his rescue. “Assistant Administrator Wang (Wang Xiu) completes my army,” Yuan Tan rejoiced. Liu Xun then rebelled at Luoyin and cities followed. Yuan Tan sighed, “Does the whole province rebel because I lack virtue?” Wang Xiu replied, “Administrator of Donglai Guan Tong, though beyond the sea, will not rebel. He will come.” Over ten days later Guan Tong abandoned wife and children to join him; rebels killed them, and Yuan Tan made him Administrator of Le'an. Planning another attack on Yuan Shang, Yuan Tan heard Wang Xiu's warning that fraternal war meant destruction. Though displeased, he recognized loyalty and later sought advice again. Wang Xiu said, “Brothers are left and right hands. Can one cut off the right hand before a fight and expect victory? Abandon brothers, and who will embrace you? Slanderers stir conflict for immediate profit. Close your ears to them. Execute a few flatterers, restore brotherly harmony, and resist outsiders: then you can prevail throughout the realm.” Ignored, the brothers fought and Yuan Tan sought Taizu (Cao Cao)'s relief. After Ji's fall he rebelled again, and Taizu (Cao Cao) attacked Nanpi. Supplying grain from Le'an, Wang Xiu hurried with troops and dozens of attendants. At Gaomi he learned Yuan Tan had died, dismounted, and wept: “Without my lord, where shall I go?” He asked Taizu (Cao Cao) to retrieve and bury the body. Testing him, Taizu (Cao Cao) remained silent. Wang Xiu said, “The Yuans favored me deeply. Let me bury him and then accept execution without regret.” Admiring his righteousness, Taizu (Cao Cao) agreed.

Wang Xiu returned to Le'an supervising supplies. All cities submitted except Guan Tong there. Ordered to take his head, Wang Xiu instead freed him as a loyal servant of a fallen state and brought him to Taizu (Cao Cao), who gladly pardoned him. Yuan rule had been lenient and officials amassed wealth: at Ye Shen Pei's and others' property was counted in myriad units. At Nanpi Wang Xiu's house held fewer than ten hu of grain and several hundred scrolls. Taizu (Cao Cao) sighed, “A scholar's fame is not groundless.” He recruited him to the Minister of Works' office and made him Acting General of the Household Managing Metals, then Administrator of Wei Commandery. He restrained the powerful, aided the weak, and applied rewards and punishments clearly, winning praise.

After Wei's establishment he became Grand Minister of Agriculture and Prefect of Palace Attendants. Taizu (Cao Cao) considered mutilating punishments, but accepted his objection that the time was unsuitable. He became Minister of Ceremonies. When Yan Cai rebelled with several dozen men at a palace side gate, Wang Xiu set off on foot with his staff before his carriage arrived. Seeing him from Tongjue Terrace, Taizu (Cao Cao) said, “That must be Wang Shuzhi [Wang Xiu].” Chancellor of State Zhong Yao said, “During disturbances, the Nine Ministers traditionally stay in their offices.” Wang Xiu replied, “Receiving the stipend, how can one avoid the peril? Staying may be customary, but not the duty of responding to danger.” He soon died ill in office. His son Wang Zhong became Administrator of Donglai and Cavalier Attendant-in-Ordinary.

Wang Xiu recognized Gao Rou's ability around twenty and Wang Ji's as a child. Both later reached great distinction, earning him a reputation for judging men.

Bing Yuan, courtesy name Genju, was from Zhuxu in Beihai. He and Guan Ning were renowned for principles while young and refused provincial invitations. During the Yellow Turban rising he took his household across the sea to Mount Yuzhou. Chancellor of Beihai Kong Rong recommended him as Possessor of the Way, but the rebels' strength led him to Liaodong. Fellow native Liu Zheng likewise had courage and strategic ability. Administrator Gongsun Du feared and hated Liu Zheng and wanted him dead, arresting his whole family, though Liu Zheng escaped. County orders threatened anyone sheltering him. Desperate, Liu Zheng turned to Bing Yuan.

He hid him for over a month, then entrusted him to Taishi Ci of Donglai, returning home. Afterward he told Gongsun Du, “You wanted Liu Zheng killed as a danger. Now he has gone, is the danger not removed?” “Yes.” “You feared his intelligence. Released, he will use it. Why still hold his family? Better pardon them and avoid deepening hatred.” Gongsun Du released them, and Bing Yuan supplied their journey home. Within a year several hundred households sought Bing Yuan at Liaodong, where teaching and visiting study never ceased.

After returning, Bing Yuan entered Taizu (Cao Cao)'s Minister of Works' office. His daughter died young, as had Taizu (Cao Cao)'s beloved son Cangshu (Cao Chong). Taizu (Cao Cao) proposed joint burial, but Bing Yuan refused: “That violates ritual. You accept me and I serve you because I preserve canonical instruction unchanged. If I complied, I would be ordinary. What use would I be to you?” Taizu (Cao Cao) desisted and made him Consultant on Affairs in the chancellor's office.

Eastern Office Clerk Cui Yan offered to yield: “Bing Yuan and Consultant Zhang Fan possess pure virtue and loyal principles. Their quiet integrity can correct customs, their steadfastness manage affairs: dragon feathers and phoenix wings, great treasures of the state. Employ them and the unbenevolent will depart.” Bing Yuan replaced Liang Mao as chief clerk to the General of the Household for All Purposes, remaining behind closed doors except for official business.

He accompanied Taizu (Cao Cao) against Wu and died.

Later Grand Herald Zhang Tai of Julu and Intendant of Henan Pang Chan of Fufeng were praised for pure worth.

Minister Coachman of Yongning Palace Zhang Ge of Dong Commandery was known for plain simplicity. Du Shu's household admonitions say, “Zhang Zitai [Zhang Ge] looks rustic, yet seems unaware of worldly beauty or desirability, his unaffected nature united with yin and yang. Such a man may lack wealth and rank, but whence could disaster come? Others aspire laboriously to such purity without embodying it.”

Guan Ning, courtesy name You'an, was from Zhuxu in Beihai.

Orphaned at sixteen, he refused relatives' funeral gifts and buried his father within his means. Eight chi tall with fine beard and brows, he befriended Hua Xin of Pingyuan and fellow native Bing Yuan. They studied abroad and revered Chen Zhonggong [Chen Shi]. During disorder, hearing Gongsun Du maintained order overseas, he went to Liaodong with Bing Yuan, Wang Lie, and others. Gongsun Du prepared lodgings, but after meeting him Guan Ning built a hut in a mountain valley. Most refugees stayed south of the commandery; he chose north to show no intention of returning. Others gradually followed. Taizu (Cao Cao)'s invitation as Minister of Works was withheld by Gongsun Du's son Gongsun Kang.

Wang Lie, courtesy name Yanfang, was then more renowned than Bing Yuan and Guan Ning. Refusing Gongsun Du's chief clerkship, he traded to lower his social standing. Taizu (Cao Cao) summoned him as clerk and Consultant on Affairs, but he died overseas before arriving.

As the central realm became safer, other refugees returned, but Guan Ning remained content, apparently intending to end his life there. In Huangchu 4 an edict sought gentlemen of independent conduct, and Minister over the Masses Hua Xin recommended him. Emperor Wen (Cao Pi) summoned him, and he sailed home with his family. Gongsun Gong saw him off with clothing and gifts. He had accepted and stored everything given by Gongsun Du, Gongsun Kang, and Gongsun Gong; once across the sea, he sealed and returned it all.

Appointed Senior Grand Master, he firmly refused.

Upon Emperor Ming (Cao Rui)'s accession, Grand Commandant Hua Xin offered his office to Guan Ning.

An edict declared: “Senior Grand Master Guan Ning embraces morality and the Six Arts, matching antiquity in purity and our age in integrity. When royal rule declined, he sailed into retirement; when Great Wei received its mandate, he came with his family, following the hidden dragon's rise and the sages' principles of service and withdrawal. Yet repeated summons since Huangchu meet illness and refusal. Does our government differ from your purpose, or do mountains delight you beyond return? Even the Duke of Zhou (Ji Dan), though a sage, could not hear the auspicious bird without aged men of virtue joining him—

“—and Duke Mu of Qin (Ying Renhao) sought counsel from the white-haired. How much more should I, lacking virtue, wish to learn from you! I appoint you Minister of the Household. The ruler-subject relationship is a great bond of ritual that cannot be discarded. Come promptly and fulfill my intention.” Another edict to Qing Province's inspector said: “Guan Ning preserves the Way in coastal retirement, refusing repeated summons and preferring his secure dwelling. Though he displays a recluse's purity, he lacks Zheng Kaofu's increasing humility. Why make me yearn for years? Does he seek only comfort and his own purpose? The ancients changed their course to benefit the people. Time passes; what use is self-cultivation without action? Confucius said, ‘If not these people, with whom shall I associate?’ Send the assistant administrator, commandery assistant, and clerks ceremonially to escort him, with a comfortable carriage, attendants, bedding, and food along the route. Report his departure.” Styling himself “a subject of the wilds,” Guan Ning memorialized:

an obscure coastal man, an unassociated old farmer, have undeservedly received Your Majesty's boundless kindness. Inheriting the great succession, your virtue matches the Three August Ones and your transforming influence surpasses Yao's. For a twelve-year cycle I have failed to repay your care. Gravely ill and long bedridden, I have failed a subject's urgent duty and tremble day and night without refuge.

received in the eleventh month of the first year, through the provincial and commandery authorities, the edict of jiashen in the eighth month, summoning

with another comfortable carriage, clothing, and bedding and ceremonial escort. Repeated honors left me fearful and at a loss. I wished to explain, but the command discouraged further memorials, so my feelings remained blocked until now. I thought Heaven's covering kindness had limits, yet its beneficence grows. In the second month of this year I received the edict of xinyou in the twelfth month of the third year, again giving carriage and clothing and ordering the provincial assistant administrator and commandery Officer of Merit to escort me. A special sealed imperial letter also appointed

Minister of the Household, with Your Majesty humbly invoking Zhou and Qin and lowering yourself to raise me. On receipt my spirit flew apart and I knew nowhere to die.

again examine myself: I lack Yuan Gong and Qili Ji's virtue yet receive their carriage honor, lack Dou Rong's achievement yet receive sealed imperial favor. A lowly roof-block bears a beam's burden; a dying man receives high ministerial office. I fear an anomaly like Zhu Bo's ominous drum. Age and illness increase daily. I cannot travel even supported in a carriage to meet my obligation. Longing for the palace gates, I submit my circumstances and beg compassionate release. Do not let my bones fill the highway.”

From Huangchu to Qinglong summons continued, with cattle and wine regularly granted in the eighth month. Asked whether Guan Ning held aloof for lofty principle or was genuinely infirm, Inspector of Qing Province Cheng Xi reported: “His neighbor and clansman Guan Gong, a provincial officer, keeps me informed. He says Guan Ning wears a black cap and cloth garments, adjusted to the seasons, and moves with a staff without support. At seasonal sacrifices he changes clothes, putting on a padded headcloth and the old white robe from Liaodong, personally offers food, kneels, and bows. Losing his mother too young to know her appearance, he adds a special cup and weeps. Water lies seventy or eighty paces from his house; in summer he washes his hands and feet there and inspects the garden. From his repeated refusals I judge that, long accustomed to retirement and now aged with declining powers, he wishes to preserve modest withdrawal, not display superiority.”

In Zhengshi 2, Minister Coachman Taoqiu Yi, Minister of the Guards of Yongning Palace Meng Guan, Palace Attendant Sun Yong, and Secretariat Attendant Gentleman Wang Ji recommended him:

“We have heard that dragons and phoenixes hide their brilliance until virtue calls, and wise men withdraw until the proper moment. The phoenix sounded at Qi as Zhou rose; the Four Whiteheads assisted Han's security. Senior Grand Master Guan Ning embodies Heaven and Earth's harmony and the nine virtues. Pure as ice and a deep spring, quiet and detached, he roams with the Way, delights in Huang-Lao, masters the Six Arts, and embraces ancient and modern wisdom. During Zhongping's Yellow Turban disorder he sailed to Liaodong for over thirty years, concealing his light through changing circumstances, cultivating greatness in retirement, and spreading transformation among different customs. “In Huangchu 4, Gaozu Emperor Wen (Cao Pi) <High Ancestor; Cao Pi's temple name> sought outstanding men and Hua Xin recommended him. Special summons brought him flying back from afar. Illness delayed his journey, and he became Senior Grand Master. Liezu Emperor Ming (Cao Rui) <Illustrious Ancestor; Cao Rui's temple name> honored him as Minister of the Household, but prolonged illness prevented arrival. Now his old sickness has improved. At eighty he remains steadfast, living behind simple walls and a brushwood gate, eating gruel and sometimes only every other day, reciting classics without losing joy. Difficulty has not blocked his understanding or changed his integrity. Like ringing metal and luminous jade, his quality grows clearer with time. Heaven perhaps preserves him to assist Great Wei's harmony. The sovereign's duties need correction and everyone looks to him. Gaozong (Wu Ding) <a Shang ruler's temple name> sought a worthy man's likeness, and King Wen (Ji Chang) consulted the tortoise shell for a good adviser. Guan Ning's merit is already established, yet remains unused: no fulfillment of the former reigns' instructions. Your Majesty inherits the great undertaking, growing daily in reverent wisdom beyond King Cheng (Ji Song). You consult teachers in every declaration. Continue your two ancestors' recruitment and honor outstanding talent to broaden enlightened government. “No one in the realm matches his conduct. Among earlier men summoned with jade and silk—Master Shen, Mei Sheng, Zhou Dang, Fan Ying—none surpassed his solitary example. Send silk bundles and jade with complete ceremony, give a stool and staff, and invite him to the eastern chamber to discuss the classics and Way, harmonizing imperial rule above and enriching the people below. Transformation will benefit. If his resolve remains unmoving as stone and he follows Hongya, Chao Fu, and Xu You in retirement at Mount Ji, our sage court will still match Yao and Shun in honoring worth for a thousand years—

“—for though service and withdrawal differ, both may promote government and good customs.”

A comfortable carriage with reed-wrapped wheels, silk, and jade was specially prepared, but Guan Ning died at eighty-four. His son Guan Miao became Gentleman of the Household, later Erudite. After his wife's earlier death, friends had urged remarriage, but he replied, “I always admired Zengzi's and Wang Jun's words. Shall my own circumstances make me abandon my original conviction?”

Zhang Jian [張臶] of Julu, courtesy name Ziming, and Hu Zhao of Yingchuan, courtesy name Kongming, likewise cultivated retirement without office. Zhang Jian studied at the Imperial Academy, mastering learning within and beyond the classics, then returned home. Refusing Yuan Shao, he moved to Shangdang. Governor of Bing Province Gao Gan appointed him Magistrate of Leping, but he refused and moved to Changshan, gathering hundreds of pupils, then settled at Ren. He ignored Chancellor Taizu (Cao Cao)'s invitation. During Taihe an edict sought reclusive scholars able to avert calamities; the commandery repeatedly nominated him, but age and illness prevented travel. Three days after taking office as Administrator of Guangping, Lu Yu was advised to send his formal visiting tablet. He replied, “Master Zhang serves neither emperor nor princes. How could a tablet enhance him?” He sent a respectful letter, sheep, and wine instead. In Qinglong 4 an edict of xinhai announced: “Xuanchuan in Zhangye flooded and cast up a precious stone bearing a diagram, shaped like a divine tortoise, standing west of the river. On its blue-green substance white markings form unicorn, phoenix, dragon, and horse, with luminous characters proclaiming the mandate. Grand Astrologer Gaotang Long calls it an omen never granted earlier sage emperors, Wei's auspicious mandate and a treasure for the eastern chamber.”

The matter was proclaimed everywhere. Magistrate of Ren Yu Chuo repeatedly asked Zhang Jian, who privately replied, “Divine signs reveal the future, not the past. Omens precede rise and fall. Han has long perished and Wei already gained the realm. Why confirm that afterward? This stone is a present anomaly and a future dynasty's auspicious sign.” In Zhengshi 1 a hoopoe nested on the shaded side of his gate. Calling it a bird of yang in a yin place, he predicted misfortune, played his zither, composed two poems, and died ten days later at one hundred and five. That year new Administrator of Guangping Wang Su instructed the counties: “I heard of Zhang Ziming [Zhang Jian] at the capital and arrived only to find him dead. He studied in retirement without worldly rivalry, finding joy in the Way. The old man of Jiang County was lifted from humble labor by Zhao Meng (Zhao Wu), bringing harmony among the lords. I pity this aged scholar's lack of honor. Send officials to console his family and distinguish his doorway, comforting the departed and encouraging those to come.”

Hu Zhao first fled to Ji Province, refused Yuan Shao, and returned home. Taizu (Cao Cao), as Minister of Works and chancellor, invited him repeatedly. He came but declared himself an ordinary countryman useless for military or state affairs and sincerely asked leave. Taizu (Cao Cao) replied, “Men have different purposes in service and withdrawal. Fulfill your noble preference; duty does not compel you.” He settled in Mount Luhun, farming and enjoying classics, loved by his neighbors.

In Jian'an 23 Magistrate of Luhun Zhang Gu was ordered to levy laborers for Hanzhong. Resenting distant service, Sun Lang and others rebelled, killed the registrar, and devastated the county. Zhang Gu and more than ten officers and soldiers sheltered with Hu Zhao, gathering survivors and restoring administration. Sun Lang joined Guan Yu, received a seal and troops, and returned raiding. At Changle Village south of Luhun, his men swore not to harm the settlement of worthy Master Hu (Hu Zhao). The whole valley felt safe through him. After peace returned, he moved to Yiyang.

During Zhengshi, General of Agile Cavalry Zhao Yan, Masters of Writing Huang Xiu and Guo Yi, Cavalier Attendants-in-Ordinary Xun Yi and Zhong Yu, Minister Coachman Yu Yi—

—and Administrator of Hongnong He Zhen and others—

—repeatedly recommended Hu Zhao: “His natural purity grows firmer with age, his quiet simplicity resembling Bo Yi and the Whiteheads. Summon him to encourage good customs.”

In Jiaping 2 a special summons was issued, but Hu Zhao died at eighty-nine. His son Hu Zuan became Gentleman of the Household.

Hu Zhao excelled at clerical writing, renowned with Zhong Yao, Handan Chun, Wei Ji, and Wei Dan. His letters regularly served as calligraphic models.

The appraisal says: Yuan Huan, Bing Yuan, and Zhang Fan personally practiced pure conduct, serving and withdrawing according to the Way—

—and were peers of Gong Yu and the two Gongs. Liang Mao and Guo Yuan ranked next. Zhang Cheng's reputation and conduct followed Zhang Fan's: a capable younger brother. Tian Chou's steadfast principles and Wang Xiu's loyalty could correct custom. Guan Ning's profound refinement and lofty resolve were unshakable. Zhang Jian and Hu Zhao closed their doors in peaceful retirement without pursuing worldly affairs. They are therefore recorded together.