Book of Wei · Biographies of Xu Miao, Hu Zhi, Wang Chang, and Wang Ji

Xu Miao, courtesy name Jingshan, was from Ji in the Kingdom of Yan. When Taizu (Cao Cao) <Great Ancestor; a posthumous temple name> pacified the region north of the Yellow River, he summoned Xu Miao as a clerk for military planning in the Chancellor's office, provisionally appointed him acting Magistrate of Fenggao, and brought him in as a deliberating clerk in the Eastern Bureau. When the state of Wei was first established, he became a gentleman among the Masters of Writing. Alcohol was prohibited, but Xu Miao drank privately to deep intoxication. Investigating Agent Zhao Da asked about bureau business. Xu Miao said: “I have been struck by the sage.” Zhao Da reported this to Taizu (Cao Cao), who was furious. General Who Crosses the Liao Xianyu Fu explained: “Drinkers commonly call clear wine a sage and cloudy wine a worthy. Xu Miao is disciplined and cautious; this was merely an occasional drunken remark.” He ultimately escaped punishment for the offense. Later acting Administrator of Longxi, he transferred to Nan'an. When Emperor Wen (Cao Pi) <Civil Emperor; a posthumous imperial title> ascended the throne, Xu Miao successively served as Chancellor of Qiao, Administrator of Pingyang and Anping, and General of the Household for Agricultural Colonies at Yingchuan. He was praised everywhere and received Marquis Within the Passes. On visiting Xuchang, the emperor asked: “Are you still sometimes struck by the sage?” Xu Miao replied: “Zifan once perished through Guyang, and Yushu was punished for drinking. My taste is like those two men's, and I cannot restrain myself, so sometimes I am struck again. Yet the Woman with the Neck Growth was transmitted for her ugliness, while I am remembered for drunkenness.” The emperor laughed and told his attendants: “A name is not established without reason.” Xu Miao became military adviser to the General-in-Chief Who Soothes the Army.

Because Liang Province was extremely remote and bordered Shu enemies to the south, Emperor Ming (Cao Rui) <Bright Emperor; a posthumous imperial title> made Xu Miao its inspector, holding a staff of authority and concurrently Colonel Who Protects the Qiang. On arrival, Zhuge Liang was advancing from Qishan, and three Longyou commanderies had rebelled. Xu Miao immediately sent a military adviser, the Administrator of Jincheng, and others against Nan'an's rebels and defeated them. West of the Yellow River rain was scarce and grain often lacking. Xu Miao petitioned to restore the Wuwei and Jiuquan salt ponds to obtain grain from the non-Chinese peoples. He also greatly expanded irrigated fields and recruited poor people to cultivate them. Every household had plenty, and storehouses overflowed. After budgeting for the province's military needs, he used the surplus to buy gold, silk, dogs, and horses for expenses in the central state. Gradually he collected private weapons and stored them in government repositories. He then guided people through humanity and righteousness, established schools and clear instruction, prohibited lavish funerals and unauthorized cults, promoted the good, and dismissed the wicked. His transforming influence spread widely, and the people's hearts turned to him. Communication with the Western Regions and tribute from distant peoples were all his achievements. For service against rebel Qiang leader Ke Wu, he was enfeoffed as Marquis of the Capital Village, with three hundred households, concurrently General Who Establishes Martial Might [建威將車 in the source]. In dealings with Qiang and others, he ignored small faults. For great crimes, he first informed their chiefs and only then beheaded and publicly displayed those deserving death. Thus they trusted and submitted, fearing his authority. All rewards were distributed to officers and soldiers, none entering his home. His wife and children lacked sufficient food and clothing. Hearing this, the Son of Heaven praised him and supplied his family as needed. He impeached evildoers and corrected wrongs, leaving the province disciplined and pure.

In the first year of Zhengshi, Xu Miao returned as Minister of Agriculture and was promoted to Colonel Director of Retainers. The officials respected and feared him. He left office over public business. Later Grandee of the Imperial Household, after several years he was appointed Minister of Works. He sighed: “The Three Excellencies deliberate on the Way. If the right man is absent, the post should remain vacant. How could an old, sick man unworthily occupy it?” He firmly declined. In the first year of Jiaping, he died at home as a grandee, aged seventy-eight. He was buried with the rites of an excellency and received the posthumous title Marquis Mu. His son Xu Wu succeeded. In the sixth year, remembering gentlemen of pure integrity, the court issued an edict: “Manifesting the worthy and honoring virtue are valued by sage kings; promoting the good to teach others was praised by Confucius. The late Minister of Works Xu Miao, General Who Campaigns against the East Hu Zhi, and Minister of Guards Tian Yu all served the former court through four reigns. Abroad they commanded troops; within they assisted government. Loyal and pure in public service, they worried for the state and forgot private interests, never building estates. After death their families had no surplus wealth. I greatly commend them. Grant their families two thousand hu of grain and three hundred thousand cash, and proclaim this throughout the realm.”

Han Guan, courtesy name Manyou, of Xu Miao's commandery, possessed discernment and administrative ability. Renowned alongside Xu Miao and preceding Sun Li and Lu Yu, he became Inspector of Yu Province, governed with great success, and died in office.

Lu Qin wrote of Xu Miao: “Lord Xu (Xu Miao)'s aims were lofty, conduct pure, talent broad, and spirit vigorous. In practice, he was lofty without narrowness, pure without rigid separation, broad yet restrained, vigorous yet generous. Sages regard purity as difficult, but Lord Xu (Xu Miao) found it easy.” Someone asked Lu Qin: “Under Emperor Wu (Cao Cao) <Martial Emperor; a posthumous imperial title>, people considered Lord Xu (Xu Miao) accommodating. From his service in Liang Province through his return to the capital, they considered him rigidly principled. Why?” Lu Qin replied: “Formerly Mao Xiaoxian (Mao Jie), Cui Jigui (Cui Yan), and others controlled affairs and valued pure, plain gentlemen. Everyone changed carriages and dress to seek a lofty name, but Lord Xu (Xu Miao) did not alter his usual ways. Thus people considered him accommodating. Recently extravagance has spread through the realm, people imitating one another. Lord Xu (Xu Miao)'s refined preferences remain unchanged and differ from convention. Thus yesterday's accommodation is today's strict principle. It is the world that lacks constancy, while Lord Xu (Xu Miao) possesses it.”

Hu Zhi, courtesy name Wende, was from Shouchun in the Kingdom of Chu. In youth he was renowned in the Jiang and Huai region alongside Jiang Ji and Zhu Ji and served in provincial and commandery offices. As administrative aide, Jiang Ji was sent to meet Taizu (Cao Cao), who asked: “Hu Tongda is a generous elder. Does he have descendants?” Jiang Ji replied: “He has a son, Hu Zhi. In broad plans and great principles he does not equal his father, but in refined quality and coordinating affairs he surpasses him.”

Taizu (Cao Cao) immediately summoned Hu Zhi as Magistrate of Dunqiu. Local man Guo Zheng had illicit relations with a younger female cousin and killed her husband Cheng Ta. Commandery clerk Feng Liang was imprisoned as a witness. Guo Zheng and the woman endured torture and concealed and denied the matter, while Feng Liang could not bear the pain and falsely confessed, facing the penalty transferred to him. On taking office, Hu Zhi examined their feelings and expressions, investigated the matter more closely, and obtained full confessions through verification.

Hu Zhi entered service as a deliberating clerk in the Chancellor's Eastern Bureau. The province requested him as administrative aide. General Zhang Liao quarreled with his Protector of the Army Wu Zhou and visited Inspector Wen Hui to request Hu Zhi, who declined through illness. Coming out, Zhang Liao told Hu Zhi: “I place my trust in you. Why disappoint me like this?” Hu Zhi replied: “In ancient friendship, one knew that taking more did not mean greed and fleeing did not mean cowardice, and did not believe rumors. Thus friendship endured. Wu Bonan (Wu Zhou) is a refined gentleman. Formerly you could scarcely stop praising him. Now a glaring glance and a small resentment have become a breach.

“With my limited talent, how could I preserve your affection to the end? That is why I decline.” Moved by these words, Zhang Liao reconciled with Wu Zhou.

Taizu (Cao Cao) recruited Hu Zhi as a subordinate in the Chancellor's office. During Huangchu he transferred to gentleman in the Personnel Bureau, became Administrator of Changshan, then transferred to Dongguan. Soldier Lu Xian was murdered. Hu Zhi said: “He had no enemies but a young wife. Could that be why he died?” He questioned all young men living nearby. Writing clerk Li Ruo changed expression when questioned. Hu Zhi pursued the facts, and Li Ruo confessed, identifying the culprit. Every military reward Hu Zhi received was distributed to others, none entering his home. During nine years in commanderies, officials and people were secure, and officers and soldiers exerted themselves loyally.

Hu Zhi became Inspector of Jing Province, concurrently General Who Inspires Martial Awe, and received Marquis Within the Passes. When Wu's senior general Zhu Ran besieged Fan, Hu Zhi hurried with a light force. Everyone argued that the enemy was strong and could not be approached. Hu Zhi said: “Fan lies low and has few troops. We must advance to support it from outside. Otherwise it is endangered.” He led troops close to the siege, reassuring the defenders. Promoted to General Who Campaigns against the East, he held an acting staff of authority supervising the armies of Qing and Xu Provinces. He expanded farming and stored grain, accumulating reserves for multiple years. He established an Eastern Campaigning Headquarters, farming while maintaining defenses, and opened canals through the commanderies to facilitate boats. Defenses were strictly prepared for the enemy, and the coast remained peaceful.

Deep and sincere by nature, discerning within, Hu Zhi did not use his own integrity as a rigid measure for others. Everywhere he served, people remembered him. He died in the second year of Jiaping. His family had no surplus property, only bestowed clothing and boxes of books. His military adviser reported this, and Hu Zhi was posthumously advanced to Marquis of Yangling Village, with a hundred households and the posthumous title Marquis Zhen. His son Hu Wei succeeded. In the sixth year an edict praised Hu Zhi's pure conduct and granted his family cash and grain, as quoted in the Biography of Xu Miao. During Xianxi, Hu Wei rose to Inspector of Xu Province,

with distinguished achievements. He governed three commanderies, renowned everywhere, and died at Anding [this continuation sits alongside a differing account in the preceding note].

Wang Chang, courtesy name Wenshu, was from Jinyang in Taiyuan.

In youth Wang Chang was renowned alongside Wang Ling of his commandery. Older, Wang Ling was treated by him as an elder brother. When Emperor Wen (Cao Pi) was in the Eastern Palace, Wang Chang became literary adviser to the crown prince, then Palace Attendant to the Crown Prince. After the emperor ascended, he became Mounted Attendant Gentleman and agricultural administrator at Luoyang. Trees had grown into forests in the metropolitan region. Wang Chang cleared wilderness and diligently encouraged the people, opening exceptionally extensive fields. He became Inspector of Yan Province. When Emperor Ming (Cao Rui) succeeded, he was concurrently General Who Spreads Martial Ardor and received Marquis Within the Passes. Though serving abroad, his mind remained at court. He considered that Wei inherited Qin and Han's defects and their harsh, minute laws. Without greatly reforming the state's canons to follow the former kings' example, renewed good government could not be expected. He therefore wrote more than twenty essays on government, broadly following ancient institutions while fitting current needs, and more than ten chapters of military writings on ordinary and extraordinary methods,

submitting them during Qinglong.

In naming his nephews and sons, Wang Chang always followed modesty and substance to express his intentions. Thus his nephews were Wang Mo, courtesy name Chujing, and Wang Shen (王沈), courtesy name Chudao; his sons were Wang Hun, courtesy name Xuanchong, and Wang Shen (王深), courtesy name Daochong. He wrote to admonish them:

“The greatest duties of a son are to cherish his person, preserve his conduct, and thereby honor his parents. Everyone knows these are good. Why do some nevertheless endanger themselves, ruin their households, and fall into destruction? Because the examples they follow and habits they acquire are not the right Way. Filial respect, humanity, and righteousness lead the hundred forms of conduct. Practicing them and establishing oneself is the root. Through filial respect one's clan is secure; through humanity and righteousness one's neighborhood esteems one. Conduct is formed within and reputation manifests without. If a man is not earnest in consummate conduct, but turns from the root to the branches, he falls into superficial brilliance and forms factions. Superficial brilliance brings the burden of hypocrisy; factions bring the danger of opposing sides. The warning in both is perfectly clear, yet ever more follow overturned carts and chase the branches. All are deluded by present praise and blinded by immediate profit. Wealth, rank, and reputation delight human feelings, yet gentlemen sometimes obtain them and refuse to remain in them. Why? They dislike what does not come by the proper Way. The danger is that people know advance but not retreat, desire but not sufficiency. Thus come distress, disgrace, regret, and lamentation. The saying goes: ‘If one does not know sufficiency, one loses what one desires.’ Thus the sufficiency of knowing enough is always sufficient. Examining past success and failure and future good and bad fortune, no one who seeks fame and profit with insatiable desire has preserved generations, maintained a household, and kept blessings and honors forever. I wish you to establish yourselves and conduct yourselves by Confucian teaching and Daoist words. Thus I used names expressing profundity, silence, emptiness, and openness, so that you would consider their meaning and dare not transgress. Ancient dishes and bowls bore inscriptions, tables and staffs admonitions. Looking up or down, one observed them and avoided wrongful conduct. How much more should your own names serve as warnings! Things completed quickly perish quickly; those that mature late end well. Morning-flowering grass falls by evening; flourishing pine and cypress do not decline in deep cold. Thus the refined gentleman dislikes premature accomplishment, as in the warning about the boy from Quedang. When Fan Gai answered a visitor from Qin, Wuzi struck him and broke his cap-pin, disliking his eclipsing others.

“Few who possess goodness refrain from boasting, and few with ability refrain from pride. Boasting eclipses others; pride overbears them. Those who eclipse others are eclipsed in return; those who overbear others are likewise overborne. Were the Three Xi men killed in Jin, and Wangshu burdened with guilt in Zhou, for any reason but pride in goodness, boasting, and contentiousness? Thus a gentleman does not praise himself, not simply to yield to others but because he dislikes overshadowing them. Those who can bend to extend themselves, yield to obtain, and use weakness as strength rarely fail to fulfill their purpose. Praise and blame are sources of love and hatred and turning points of disaster and blessing. Thus sages are cautious. Confucius said: ‘Whom do I blame, whom praise? If I praise anyone, he has been tested.’ He also said: ‘Zigong compares people. Is Ci so worthy? I have no leisure for this.’ Even a sage's virtue proceeded thus. How much less should ordinary men praise and blame lightly! General Who Subdues the Waves Ma Yuan admonished his nephews: ‘Hearing others' faults should be like hearing one's parents' personal names. The ear may hear them, but the mouth must not utter them.’ This warning is most earnest.

“If someone criticizes you, withdraw and examine yourself. If your conduct deserves criticism, his words are right; if not, his words are false. If right, bear no resentment; if false, they do not harm you. Why retaliate? Anger on hearing criticism arises from dislike of an ugly reputation. Retaliation makes it grow. Better remain silent and cultivate yourself. The proverb says: ‘Nothing relieves cold like layered furs; nothing stops slander like self-cultivation.’ These words are true. One should not even approach contentious, vicious, dangerous men. How much worse to dispute with them! The harm is deep. Hypocrites' words are not rooted in the Way, and their conduct disregards their words. Their shallowness is fairly easy to recognize. Yet people are deceived because they do not test words against conduct. Recently Wei Feng of Jiyin and Cao Wei of Shanyang both fell through crooked wickedness. They bewildered their age, harbored evil, and stirred the young. Though executed by axe as conspicuous warnings, they had already contaminated many. Can one fail to be cautious?

“As for mountain recluses like Boyi and Shuqi, content with long hunger at Shouyang or calmly entering the fire at Mianshan, though they can stir the greedy and encourage customs, even sages cannot necessarily do this, and I do not wish it for you. Your forefathers have held official caps for generations, known for humanity, righteousness, caution, and restraint, practicing filial and fraternal duty at home and pursuing learning among teachers and friends. In my dealings with contemporaries, though our official and private paths differ, each offers something to value. Guo Boyi (Guo Yi) of Yingchuan has accommodating preferences and is quick and discerning. Yet he lacks broad generosity and has an excess of slighting or esteeming people. Those he approves he values like mountains; those he disapproves he disregards like grass. I associate closely with him for what I know of him, but do not wish my sons to become like him.

“Xu Weichang (Xu Gan) of Beihai did not cultivate a lofty reputation or seek improper gain. Tranquilly preserving himself, he pursued only the Way. When he approved or disapproved, he used ancient examples to express his meaning and offered no praise or blame of contemporaries. I respect and esteem him and wish my sons to take him as teacher. Liu Gonggan (Liu Zhen) of Dongping was extensively learned and highly talented, with sincere integrity and great intentions. Yet his character and conduct were uneven and he had few restraints. His gains and losses balanced one another. I love and esteem him but do not wish my sons to imitate him.

“Ren Zhaoxian (Ren Gu) of Le'an is pure and unalloyed in following the Way, inwardly perceptive and outwardly forgiving, yielding, respectful, and modest. He does not avoid lowly situations; though timid, he is brave for righteousness and forgets himself at court. I befriend and approve him and wish my sons to follow him.

“If you extend these examples and develop related cases, you may grasp the rest from one corner. In using wealth, put the nine kin groups first; in giving, aid urgent need; in coming and going, remember old elders; in discussion, value the absence of disparagement; in office, prize loyalty and integrity; in choosing men, seek substantial adherence to the Way; in power, guard against arrogance and indulgence; in poverty and lowliness, take care not to grieve; in advance and retreat, consider propriety; in actions, apply the Nine Reflections. This is all. What further worry would I have?”

In the fourth year of Qinglong, an edict sought “men of talent, intelligence, and literary accomplishment, deep in planning, judging the distant as near and seeing clearly through darkness, whose calculations are not vain and strategies not empty, single-minded and cautious, pure, disciplined, quiet, and discreet, tirelessly diligent, with aspirations directed to public affairs. Age shall not limit them, nor rank constrain them. Each minister or colonel and above shall recommend one.” Grand Commandant Sima Xuanwang (Sima Yi) <King Xuan; a posthumous royal title> recommended Wang Chang. During Zhengshi, Wang Chang transferred to Xu Province, was enfeoffed as Marquis of Wuguan Village, and became General Who Campaigns against the South with an acting staff of authority supervising military affairs in Jing and Yu Provinces. He considered that a state has a regular population but war no constant victory, land has fixed defenses but defense no fixed posture. Their station at Wan lay more than three hundred li from Xiangyang; armies were scattered, and boats at Xuanchi could not provide timely mutual assistance. He petitioned to move headquarters to Xinye, train navies in the two provinces, and expand cultivation until granaries overflowed.

Early in Jiaping, after Grand Tutor Sima Xuanwang (Sima Yi) executed Cao Shuang, he requested broad consultation on ministers' gains and losses. Wang Chang presented five governing proposals: “First, exalt the Way and earnest learning, suppress superficial brilliance, and have sons of the state enter the Imperial Academy while restoring local schools. Second, employ assessment. Assessment is like a standard line: no one can abandon the line and determine straight and crooked by guess, or abolish promotion and dismissal while discussing ability emptily. Third, keep officials longer in their posts, increasing rank and granting titles there when they achieve results. Fourth, limit offices and provide real salaries, encouraging integrity and shame so officials do not compete with the people for profit. Fifth, stop extravagance and exalt frugality, give clothing prescribed distinctions and high and low their order, store grain and silk, and return the people to simplicity.” An edict praised this and ordered him to devise official assessment. Wang Chang held that although Tang Yao and Yu Shun had writings on dismissal and promotion, their assessment methods had not been transmitted. Under Zhou, the Grand Administrator broadly reckoned officials' government and punished or rewarded, but no comparative system survived. Thus sage rulers understood appointing the worthy, broadly set the framework of dismissal and promotion, entrusted it to senior responsible officials, and controlled the overall order. Ability and inability could thereby be known. Such was his general meaning.

In the second year, Wang Chang memorialized: “Sun Quan has exiled good ministers, and legitimate and secondary heirs contend. This opening can be used against Wu and Shu. Between Baidi and Yiling, Qian, Wu, Zigui, and Fangling all lie north of the Yangzi. Their Chinese and non-Chinese inhabitants adjoin Xincheng Commandery and can be taken by surprise.” He sent Administrator of Xincheng Zhou Tai (州泰; distinct from Zhou Tai 周泰) to raid Wu, Zigui, and Fangling, Inspector of Jing Province Wang Ji toward Yiling, and went himself toward Jiangling. Bamboo cables were stretched between the banks to make a bridge. They crossed and attacked. The enemy fled to the south bank, cut seven routes, and attacked along them together. Wang Chang had massed crossbows fire simultaneously. Enemy senior general Shi Ji fled into Jiangling by night. Pursuit took several hundred heads. Wishing to lure him onto level ground, Wang Chang first sent five armies back along the main road so the enemy would see and rejoice, then galloped captured armored horses, armor, and heads around the city to anger it, laying an ambush. Shi Ji indeed pursued. Wang Chang fought and defeated him. Shi Ji fled, and his generals Zhongli Mao and Xu Min were beheaded. Armor, heads, banners, drums, treasures, and weapons were taken, and the army returned in ordered victory. Wang Ji and Zhou Tai also rendered service. Wang Chang became Senior General Who Campaigns against the South, with ceremonial status equal to the Three Offices, and advanced to Marquis of Jingling. For service resisting Guanqiu Jian and Wen Qin's rebellion, two sons received village marquis and Marquis Within the Passes, and he became General of Agile Cavalry. When Zhuge Dan rebelled, Wang Chang held Jiashi to threaten Jiangling, pinning down Shi Ji and Quan Xi so they could not go east. After Zhuge Dan's execution, an edict said: “Sun Bin once assisted Zhao by heading straight for Daliang. The western army's swift advance likewise strengthened the eastern campaign.” His estate increased by a thousand households to forty-seven hundred in all. He became Minister of Works, retaining his staff and supervisory command. He died in the fourth year of Ganlu and received the posthumous title Marquis Mu.

His son Wang Hun succeeded and was Colonel of Surpassing Cavalry during Xianxi.

Wang Ji (王基), courtesy name Boyu, was from Qucheng in Donglai. Orphaned young, he lived with his paternal uncle Wang Weng, who raised him with great care. Wang Ji was likewise praised for filial conduct. At seventeen the commandery summoned him as an official, but this did not suit his inclination. He left and traveled into Langye to study. During Huangchu he was nominated as Filial and Incorrupt and appointed Gentleman of the Palace. Qing Province had recently been settled, and Inspector Wang Ling specially petitioned for Wang Ji as administrative aide. Later summoned as gentleman in the Palace Library, he was requested back by Wang Ling. Shortly afterward Minister over the Masses Wang Lang recruited him, but Wang Ling would not release him. Wang Lang impeached the province in writing: “Good household ministers advance to the highest assisting offices, and good public ministers enter royal service. Thus ancient regional lords had rites for presenting gentlemen. A province taking an attendant of the imperial guard and retaining an officer of the secret library is rarely heard of.” Wang Ling still refused. His reputation in Qing Province owed much to Wang Ji's harmonizing assistance. General-in-Chief Sima Xuanwang (Sima Yi) recruited Wang Ji, but before arrival he was promoted to attendant gentleman of the Palace Secretariat.

Emperor Ming (Cao Rui) was extensively building palaces, exhausting the people. Wang Ji memorialized: “The ancients compared the people to water: ‘Water carries the boat and also overturns it.’ Those above the people must therefore be vigilant and fearful. At ease, the people think circumstances simple; in hardship, they think of trouble. Thus the former kings governed through restraint and frugality, preventing danger from arising. Yan Yuan once said of Dongyezi's driving that the horses' strength was exhausted while he kept pressing forward, and therefore knew he would fail. Now labor is burdensome, and men and women are separated and without partners. Consider deeply Dongyezi's failure and the analogy of boat and water. Rest the racing team before exhaustion and limit labor before distress. When Han possessed the realm, by the time of Emperor Xiaowen of Han (Liu Heng) its regional lords all bore the imperial surname. Yet Jia Yi worried: ‘It is like placing fire beneath piled firewood and sleeping on it, then calling this safety.’ Now enemies remain undestroyed and fierce generals command troops. Restrain them and they cannot meet the enemy; leave them long, and they will be difficult to bequeath safely to posterity. If in an enlightened age we do not work to remove danger, and descendants lack strength, the altars of state will face anxiety. Were Jia Yi alive again, his concern would be deeper than before.”

Regular Mounted Attendant Wang Su wrote explanations of the classics and commentaries and settled court ceremonies, changing Zheng Xuan's old interpretations. Wang Ji upheld Zheng Xuan's principles and constantly opposed him. He became Administrator of Anping, left office over public business, and was invited by General-in-Chief Cao Shuang as consultant gentleman. Going out as Administrator of Anfeng on Wu's border, he governed with purity and strictness, authority and kindness. Defenses were clearly prepared, and the enemy dared not invade. He was concurrently General Who Attacks Bandits. Wu once assembled large forces at Jianye and announced an attack on Yang Province. Inspector Zhuge Dan asked Wang Ji to assess it. Wang Ji said: “Sun Quan twice reached Hefei and once Jiangxia; later Quan Cong advanced into Lujiang and Zhu Ran invaded Xiangyang. All returned without success. Lu Xun and the others are now dead, Sun Quan old, without a worthy heir within or chief strategist at the center. If he comes himself, he fears sudden internal conflict erupting like an abscess. If he sends generals, the old ones are gone and new ones untrusted. This is merely to consolidate factions and return to self-preservation.” Sun Quan ultimately could not advance. Cao Shuang monopolized power, and customs declined. Wang Ji wrote the Discussion of Present Essentials to criticize current affairs. Recalled through illness, he was reappointed from private life as Intendant of Henan. Before taking office, Cao Shuang was executed. Having served under him, Wang Ji was dismissed according to the general rule.

That year Wang Ji became Master of Writing, went out as Inspector of Jing Province, concurrently General Who Spreads Martial Ardor, and accompanied General Who Campaigns against the South Wang Chang against Wu. He separately raided Bu Xie at Yiling, who shut the gates and defended himself. Displaying an intention to attack, Wang Ji actually detached troops to take the supply depot at Xiongfu, capturing more than three hundred thousand hu of rice, taking General Who Pacifies the North Tan Zheng prisoner, and receiving several thousand surrenderers. He moved the surrendered population and established Yiling County, receiving Marquis Within the Passes. He also petitioned to fortify Shangchang and move Jiangxia's headquarters there to press Xiakou. Thereafter the enemy dared not lightly cross the Yangzi. Clarifying institutions, organizing military agriculture, and developing schools, he won praise in the south. The court then discussed attacking Wu and ordered Wang Ji to assess the proper advance. He replied: “An army moved without achievement loses prestige abroad and exhausts resources within. It should therefore be used only after complete success is secured. Without open waterways, accumulated grain, and preparation for naval war, even troops massed within the river region cannot certainly cross. Jiangling has the Ju and Zhang Rivers irrigating thousands of fertile fields. Around Anlu, ponds and marshes spread richly. If we farm both irrigated and dry land to fill military stores, then lead troops toward Jiangling and Yiling, occupy Xiakou separately, and use the Ju and Zhang to float grain downstream, the enemy will know government troops can remain long. Those resisting Heaven's punishment will lose heart, while those turning toward royal transformation grow firmer. Then combine the non-Chinese peoples to attack within and picked troops to attack without. Everything above Xiakou must fall, and commanderies beyond the river cannot hold. Wu and Shu's alliance will be broken, and Wu captured. Otherwise the benefit of sending troops cannot be assured.” The proposal was consequently stopped.

When Sima Jingwang (Sima Shi) <King Jing; a posthumous royal title> first took charge of government, Wang Ji wrote to warn him: “The realm is vast and its affairs numerous. One must remain vigilant and diligent, sitting through the night awaiting dawn. With right purpose, evils do not arise; with a quiet mind, affairs do not become agitated; with carefully settled thought, commands are not burdensome; with loyal and good men trusted, near and far submit harmoniously. Thus harmonizing the distant rests in oneself, and settling the multitude in the mind. Xu Yun, Fu Gu, Yuan Kan, and Cui Zan are upright gentlemen of the age, sincere without drifting hearts, with whom government can be shared.” Sima Jingwang (Sima Shi) accepted his words.

When the Duke of Gaogui District (Cao Mao) <the territorial title used for this Wei emperor> ascended, Wang Ji advanced to Marquis of Changle Village. During Guanqiu Jian and Wen Qin's rebellion, he became acting Army Supervisor, with an acting staff of authority commanding Xuchang's troops, and met Sima Jingwang (Sima Shi) there. Asked to assess the rebels, Wang Ji answered: “Huainan's revolt is not because officials and people desire disorder. Guanqiu Jian and the others deceive, coerce, and frighten them. Fearing immediate execution, they still gather together. Once the great army presses them, they must collapse like earth and tiles. Their heads will hang at the camp gate before morning ends.” Sima Jingwang (Sima Shi) approved and placed Wang Ji in the vanguard. Discussants all considered the rebels fierce and difficult to face, and an edict ordered Wang Ji to stop. He argued: “Their army is sufficient to advance deeply, yet they have long remained still. Their deception is exposed and their men's hearts doubtful and discouraged. If we do not display power to answer the people's hopes but stop behind high defenses, we appear fearful. This is no posture for war. If the enemy seizes people, captured military households will become further estranged; those coerced will consider their guilt heavy and dare not return. We would place troops where they are useless and create a source of wrongdoing. If Wu exploits this, Huainan will be lost, and Qiao, Pei, Ru, and Yu endangered. This is a great miscalculation. Advance quickly to Nandun, whose great depot contains forty days' provisions. Hold a strong city and stored grain. Arriving first seizes the enemy's heart: this is essential to pacification.” After repeated requests, he was allowed to advance to the Yin River [㶏水 in the source]. On arrival he again said: “War has heard of clumsy speed, never prolonged ingenious delay. With strong enemies outside and rebels within, delay makes the depth of events unpredictable. Many urge you to be cautious. Caution is right; stopping is wrong. Caution does not mean immobility, but advancing in a posture that cannot be attacked. To stay in a strong city behind defenses while leaving accumulated stores to the enemy and transporting grain from afar is truly no plan.” Sima Jingwang (Sima Shi) still wished to await the assembled armies. Wang Ji said: “A general in the field may refuse certain royal commands. A city advantageous to whichever side obtains it is a contested city. Nandun is such a place.” He advanced without further permission and occupied it. Guanqiu Jian and the others also set out from Xiang to contest it, but after more than ten li heard he had arrived and returned to Xiang. Inspector of Yan Province Deng Ai was stationed at Lejia. Guanqiu Jian sent Wen Qin against him. Knowing their force was divided, Wang Ji pressed Xiang, and the rebels collapsed. After Wen Qin and the others were pacified, Wang Ji became General Who Guards the South, supervising Yu Province's military affairs and concurrently its inspector, advanced to Marquis of Anle District. He petitioned to divide two hundred households to grant his uncle's son Wang Qiao Marquis Within the Passes, repaying his uncle's nurturing kindness. A special edict allowed it.

When Zhuge Dan rebelled, Wang Ji retained his office while acting as General Who Guards the East, supervising Yang and Yu's armies. The great army was then at Xiang. Because the rebels had picked troops, an edict ordered Wang Ji to gather his army behind firm fortifications. He repeatedly requested advance. Wu sent Zhu Yi to relieve Zhuge Dan, camping at Ancheng. Wang Ji again received an edict to move the armies to the northern hills. He told the generals: “Our encircling works grow firmer and troops and horses are assembling. We need only refine defenses and await escape attempts. Moving to defensible hills would release the enemy, and even a wise man could not repair the consequences.” Holding to what was expedient, he memorialized: “Facing the enemy now, we should remain immovable as a mountain. Moving to difficult ground would unsettle men's hearts and greatly damage our position. All armies occupy deep ditches and high ramparts. Their hearts are settled and cannot be shaken. This is essential to command.” His proposal was approved. General-in-Chief Sima Wenwang (Sima Zhao) <King Wen; a posthumous royal title> advanced to Qiutou, dividing the siege into commands. Wang Ji supervised twenty-six armies east and south of the city. Sima Wenwang (Sima Zhao) ordered military officials not to issue any separate assignments within Wang Ji's southern guarding command. When food ran out in the city, its defenders attacked the lines day and night. Wang Ji repelled and defeated them. After Shouchun fell, Sima Wenwang (Sima Zhao) wrote: “Initially discussants were many, and many requested movement. Not having inspected the position, I too thought it appropriate. You deeply calculated advantage and harm and alone maintained a firm purpose, opposing edicts above and public opinion below, finally controlling the enemy and capturing the rebels. Even the ancients' recorded achievements do not surpass this.” Sima Wenwang (Sima Zhao) wished to send generals with light troops deep into Wu to attract the sons and younger relatives of Tang Zi and the others, exploiting the opening to overthrow Wu. Wang Ji remonstrated: “Zhuge Ke exploited victory at Dongguan, exhausted Wu's troops to besiege Xincheng, failed to take it, and lost more than half his men. Jiang Wei exploited success on the Tao, advanced deeply with light troops, lacked continuing supplies, and suffered defeat at Shanggui. After a great victory, high and low underestimate the enemy and fail to consider difficulties deeply. The enemy has newly suffered defeat abroad and internal trouble is unresolved. This is precisely when it will prepare and plan carefully. Moreover, our army has been out over a year, and men wish to return. We have taken a hundred thousand captives and heads and obtained the guilty men. No campaign through successive ages has preserved its army and won so completely. After defeating Yuan Shao at Guandu, Emperor Wu (Cao Cao) considered his gains already great and did not pursue, fearing damage to his prestige.” Sima Wenwang (Sima Zhao) stopped. With Huainan newly settled, Wang Ji became General Who Campaigns against the East, supervising Yang Province's armies, and advanced to Marquis of Dongwu. He firmly declined the honors and credited his advisers. Consequently seven chief clerks, majors, and others all received marquisates.

That year Wang Ji's mother died. An edict concealed the news of mourning from him and brought his father Wang Bao's remains for joint burial at Luoyang, posthumously appointing Wang Bao Administrator of Beihai. In the fourth year of Ganlu, Wang Ji became General Who Campaigns against the South, supervising military affairs in Jing Province. When the Duke of Changdao District (Cao Huan) <the territorial title used for the last Wei emperor> ascended, Wang Ji's estate increased by a thousand households to fifty-seven hundred in all. Two sons received village marquis and Marquis Within the Passes at different times.

In the second year of Jingyuan, Xiangyang's administrator reported that Wu men Deng You and others wished to submit. Wang Ji received an edict to exploit this and shake the region beyond the Yangzi. Suspecting deception, he urgently reported the circumstances: “Since Jiaping there have been repeated internal troubles. The present task is to secure the altars of state and reassure the people. We should not yet mobilize the multitude for external gain.” Sima Wenwang (Sima Zhao) replied: “In handling affairs, many accommodate one another and comply, while few firmly pursue real principles together. I am truly moved by your loyalty and care. Whenever you offer guidance, I respectfully follow it.” Deng You and the others ultimately did not surrender.

Wang Ji died that year, was posthumously appointed Minister of Works, and received the posthumous title Marquis Jing. His son Wang Hui succeeded but died young. During Xianxi the five noble ranks were established. Because of Wang Ji's distinguished service under the preceding reign, his grandson Wang Yi received the changed enfeoffment, and the remaining Dongwu estate provided another son the rank of Marquis Within the Passes. When Jin ascended, an edict said: “The late Minister of Works Wang Ji established virtue and achievement and was personally pure and plain, never managing an estate. Though long holding weighty responsibilities, his family accumulated no private wealth. His conduct became manifest after death and suffices to encourage customs. Grant his family two enslaved attendants.”

Appraisal: Xu Miao's pure preferences were broad and accommodating; Hu Zhi's plain principles steadfast and unalloyed; Wang Chang was open, helpful, and discerning in judgment; Wang Ji's learning and conduct firm and pure. All directed regional responsibilities and left reputations and conspicuous achievements. They may be called good ministers of the state and outstanding gentlemen of their age.