Book of Shu · Biographies of Xu Jing, Mi Zhu, Sun Qian, Jian Yong, Yi Ji, and Qin Mi — English Translation

#

Xu Jing, courtesy name Wenxiu, was a native of Pingyu in Runan. In youth he and his younger cousin Xu Shao were both renowned for judging people's merits and faults, but personally they did not get along. As the commandery's Merit Officer, Xu Shao excluded Xu Jing from appointment, and Xu Jing supported himself by operating a horse-powered mill. Liu Yi of Yingchuan became Grand Administrator of Runan and recommended him as Accounts Officer, then as Filial and Incorrupt. He was appointed a Gentleman of the Masters of Writing, overseeing selection and appointments. After Emperor Ling (Liu Hong) <the Han emperor's posthumous title> died, Dong Zhuo took power and made Zhou Bi of Hanyang Master of Writing for Personnel. Together with Xu Jing he deliberated over the advancement and dismissal of the realm's scholars, removing the corrupt and promoting neglected talent. Xun Shuang, Han Rong, Chen Ji, and others of Yingchuan were advanced to positions as high ministers, ministers, and commandery administrators. Han Fu, a Master of Writing, became Governor of Ji Province; Palace Attendant Liu Dai became Inspector of Yan Province; Zhang Zi of Yingchuan became Grand Administrator of Nanyang; Kong Zhou of Chenliu became Inspector of Yu Province; and Zhang Miao of Dong Commandery became Grand Administrator of Chenliu. Xu Jing was transferred to Grand Administrator of Ba Commandery but did not take up the post and was appointed Assistant Censor-in-Chief instead. After Han Fu and the others reached their appointments, each raised troops toward the capital to execute Dong Zhuo. Angrily Dong Zhuo told Zhou Bi: 'You gentlemen said worthy men should be promoted. I followed your plans because I did not wish to oppose the people's will. Yet the men you employed began plotting against me as soon as they took office. How have I failed you?' He shouted at Zhou Bi to leave and had him beheaded outside. Xu Jing's elder cousin Xu Yang, Chancellor of Chen, had also plotted with Kong Zhou. Fearing execution, Xu Jing fled to Kong Zhou. <The source writes 查負 in Dong Zhuo's final question; the wording and reading are uncertain.>

After Kong Zhou died, he depended on Chen Yi, Inspector of Yang Province. When Chen Yi died, Xu Gong, Commandant of Wu Commandery, and Wang Lang, Grand Administrator of Kuaiji, had old ties with Xu Jing, so he went to them for protection. He gathered and cared for relatives and fellow villagers, managing relief for them out of deep humanity.

#

When Sun Ce crossed the Yangzi eastward, they all fled to Jiao Province to avoid the trouble. Xu Jing sat at the edge of a cliff, putting his followers aboard first. Only when distant and close relatives alike had departed did he leave last. All who saw it sighed in admiration. Reaching Jiaozhi, he was treated with great respect by its Grand Administrator Shi Xie. Yuan Hui of Chen was living in Jiao Province as a refugee. He wrote to Xun Yu, Prefect of the Masters of Writing: 'Xu Wenxiu (Xu Jing) is an outstanding talent and magnificent scholar, with sufficient wisdom and strategy to plan affairs. Since becoming a wanderer, he has accompanied groups of scholars. Whenever urgent trouble arises, he always puts others before himself, sharing hunger, cold, and displacement with relatives of every degree, within and outside the clan. His ordering of his companions, humanity, forbearance, sympathy, and compassion all have concrete examples, too numerous to set out individually.' Zhang Xiang of Julu

came to the Jiao region on an imperial commission. Using his position to recruit Xu Jing, he wanted a binding oath, but Xu Jing refused. Xu Jing wrote to Lord Cao (Cao Cao) <a respectful designation>:

#

'The world's roads have become barbarous, and calamity and disorder have converged. Weak and timid, I stole my survival and fled among the Man and Maek. Ten years of separation have passed, and observances in joy and grief have lapsed. Formerly at Kuaiji I received your letter, whose words were intimate and sincere, remembering our old bond. But Yuan Shu defied orders and ruined his clan, stirring the rebels and blocking every crossing and road. Though my heart hung upon the northern wind, I had no route to travel. Zhengli (Xu Gong)'s army withdrew, Yuan Shu's troops advanced, Kuaiji fell, and Jingxing (Wang Lang) lost his base. The Three Rivers and Five Lakes all became enemy territory. In that crisis I had nowhere to appeal, so with Yuan Pei, Deng Zixiao, and others I crossed the vast sea and went south to Jiao Province. We passed the lands of Eastern Ou, Min, and Yue, traveling ten thousand li without seeing Han territory, tossed upon winds and waves. With provisions exhausted we ate plants; hunger and death came repeatedly, and more than half perished. After crossing the southern sea, I met the acting administrator referred to as 兒孝德 <the personal name and reading are not securely established here> and learned that you had risen in loyalty and righteousness, ordered your great army, gone west to welcome the imperial carriage, and toured the central sacred mountain. Hearing this good news, I felt both grief and joy. With Yuan Pei and Xu Yuanxian I again prepared to travel north to Jing Province. But Yi and Yue rose like swarms throughout Cangwu's counties; the provincial government was overthrown and roads blocked. Xu Yuanxian was killed, together with the old and weak. I then followed shores and cliffs for more than five thousand li, only to encounter epidemic disease. My elder uncle's wife died, along with cousins, while nearly all our wives and children perished at once. Supporting one another, we came on to this commandery. Of those exposed to warfare and disease, only one or two in ten remained. How could the hardships of living people and the sources of our suffering be fully recounted?' <Yuan Pei, Deng Zixiao, and Xu Yuanxian transcribe 袁沛, 鄧子孝, and 徐元賢 as given; these abbreviated designations do not establish complete personal names.>

'I fear sudden collapse and becoming forever a fugitive captive. Grief and exhaustion overwhelm me; I forget sleep and food. I wish to accompany a tribute mission, obtain passage, and return to die at the imperial court, but Jing Province has no open water or land crossings, and communication with the Jiao region has ceased. I wish to go up to Yi Province, but its barriers are strict: none who formerly held office, high or low, may enter. Earlier I asked Shi Weiyan (Shi Xie), Grand Administrator of Jiaozhi, to entrust me earnestly to our friends in Yi Province. I also wrote myself, with painful and heartfelt appeals, but again all was silent, without response. Though I look up toward your radiance, stretching my neck and rising on tiptoe, how could I borrow wings to reach you? 'I know that our sage sovereign (Liu Xie) is truly enlightened and has conspicuously entrusted you with independent campaigning. Many rebels have been punished. I imagine those exerting themselves share one heart, and the obedient follow one plan. Zhang Ziyun (Zhang Jin), formerly in the capital, aspired to rectify the royal house. Though now governing a remote region and unable to take part at the central court, he is still a frontier support of the state and your external ally.'

'If Jing and Chu become peaceful and royal favor reaches the south, should you send instructions to Zhang Ziyun (Zhang Jin), please earnestly commend and entrust me to him so that I may borrow a route out through Jing Province. Otherwise, introduce me again to our friends in Yi Province so they will admit me. If Heaven grants me years and men mitigate my calamity, I may return to die in service to the state and shed the guilt of flight. Then even beneath the Nine Springs, what regret would I have? But if the times turn dangerous, affairs fail, and life's uncertainty causes me to die before reaching you, I shall forever bear guilt and responsibility, buried in a remote land. 'Formerly the lord of Yingqiu (Jiang Shang) <a designation from the founding fief of Qi> assisted Zhou, holding the battle-axe and campaigning independently; the Marquis of Bolu (Huo Guang) <a territorial marquisate> supported Han, with Tiger Guards clearing his path. Now you support the endangered and uphold the collapsing, serving as the state's pillar. You bear the office of Master Wang (Jiang Shang) and the weight of Huo Guang, holding command over the lords of the five ranks and the regional leaders. From antiquity until now no minister's eminence has equaled yours. High rank brings deep concern; generous revenues bring heavy responsibility. You occupy high rank and bear weighty duties. Words from your mouth become reward or punishment; your intentions become fortune or disaster. If exercised according to the Way, the altars of state will be peaceful; if contrary to it, the four quarters will scatter in disorder. The state's safety and danger rest with you, and the people's lives hang upon your administration. From the central lands to foreign peoples, all look up expectantly. 'Bearing this responsibility, how can you fail to study broadly in the records the causes of rise and fall and the turning points of honor and disgrace, forget old enmities, treat officials generously and harmoniously, assess the five kinds of ability, and choose men for their offices? If a man is suitable, recommend him even if an enemy; if unsuitable, do not appoint him even if a relative. Thus secure the altars of state and relieve the people. Once the enterprise stands and achievements are complete, your name will be set to pipes and strings and your merits engraved on metal and stone. I hope you will strive. Value yourself for the state's sake and care for yourself for the people's sake.'

#

Resenting Xu Jing's refusal to accept his approach, Zhang Xiang searched out the letters Xu Jing had entrusted to him and threw them all into the water.

#

Later Liu Zhang finally sent envoys to invite Xu Jing, who entered Shu. Liu Zhang appointed him Grand Administrator of Ba and then Guanghan. Song Zhongzi (Song Zhong) of Nanyang wrote from Jing Province to Wang Shang, Grand Administrator of Shu Commandery: 'Wenxiu (Xu Jing) is remarkable and outstanding, possessing the abilities needed by the age. You should take him as your guide.'

Commentary<The Biographies of Elders of Yi Province says: Wang Shang, courtesy name Wenbiao, was from Guanghan. Renowned for talent and learning, he had a distinguished reputation in the province and his home district. Liu Zhang recruited him as Administrative Aide. At that time the routes to the royal court were blocked, and provincial governors resembled the lords of the Seven States. Liu Zhang was weak and suspicious and could not trust his great ministers. Wang Shang submitted written remonstrances, which moved him somewhat. Earlier Han Sui and Ma Teng had caused disorder in Guanzhong and repeatedly exchanged letters with Liu Zhang's father Liu Yan. Ma Teng's son Ma Chao subsequently corresponded with Liu Zhang, intending an alliance with Shu. Wang Shang told Liu Zhang: 'Ma Chao is brave but inhumane; when he sees gain, he does not consider righteousness. He cannot be relied upon like lips and teeth. Laozi says: "The state's sharp instruments must not be shown to others." Yi Province now has excellent scholars, a plentiful population, and sources of precious goods. These are what cunning men desire to overturn, and why Ma Chao and the others look west. Bringing them close would be like raising a tiger and leaving trouble for yourself.' Liu Zhang followed his advice and rejected the alliance. Liu Biao, Governor of Jing Province, and the scholar Song Zhong both heard Wang Shang's reputation and sent warmly respectful letters. Xu Jing, renowned for judging people, came to Shu, met Wang Shang, and praised him: 'Had Wang Shang been born in the central lands, even Wang Jingxing (Wang Lang) could not surpass him.' Liu Zhang made Wang Shang Grand Administrator of Shu Commandery. Qin Jian of Chengdu practiced exceptional filial devotion; Wang Shang marked his grave and posthumously recommended him as Filial and Incorrupt. He also erected shrines and inscriptions for Yan Junping (Yan Zun) and Li Hong to honor former worthies. He promoted learning and expanded farming, benefiting the people. After ten years governing the commandery, he died in office, and Xu Jing succeeded him.>

In Jian'an 16, Xu Jing was transferred to Shu Commandery.

In Jian'an 19, the Former Lord (Liu Bei) <the retrospective designation for Shu's founding ruler> conquered Shu and made Xu Jing Chief Clerk to the General of the Left. When the Former Lord (Liu Bei) became King of Hanzhong (Liu Bei) <a territorial royal title>, Xu Jing became Grand Tutor. After assuming the imperial title, the Former Lord (Liu Bei) issued this command to Xu Jing: 'I have been enabled to receive the great enterprise and rule the myriad states. Day and night I am anxious, fearing I cannot bring peace. The people are not affectionate, and the five relationships lack harmony. You shall become Minister over the Masses. Reverently spread the five teachings with generosity. Strive, sir! Hold fast to virtue without weariness and fulfill my intentions.'

#

Though over seventy, Xu Jing delighted in people, welcomed and encouraged younger men, and never tired of elevated conversation. Chancellor Zhuge Liang always bowed to him. He died in Zhangwu 2. His son Xu Qin had died young before him. Xu Qin's son Xu You served as a Master of Writing during Jingyao. Earlier Xu Jing had served Chen Ji of Yingchuan like an elder brother and was close to Yuan Huan of Chen, Hua Xin of Pingyuan, and Wang Lang of Donghai. Hua Xin, Wang Lang, and Chen Ji's son Chen Qun became great assisting ministers early in Wei. All wrote to Xu Jing, reaffirming old friendships with deep sincerity and affection. Their letters are too numerous to include.

Commentary<The Weilüe records a letter from Wang Lang to Wenxiu (Xu Jing): 'Wenxiu (Xu Jing), I hear that you are well: excellent, excellent! Who could have expected that after parting for more than thirty years we would have no opportunity to meet? The poet compares a single day's separation to months and years. How much more these long decades! Since our separation, several times it has seemed that we sank and resurfaced, lost connection and regained it. Now I live in a peaceful capital, attached to a sage ruler who has risen like a flying dragon. Our contemporaries are almost all gone. Happily you and I survive into old age as remnants, yet several thousand li separate us, with difficult barriers as well. We occasionally hear news on the wind and lodge old affection in our thoughts. Far apart, we might as well inhabit different ages. 'Formerly I followed the army into Jing Province and met Deng Zixiao and Huan Yuanjiang <courtesy-name designations; their complete personal names are not established here>, learning something of your circumstances. They said you were in Yi Province, holding office and governing a commandery, preserving your virtuous character and standards without decline in old age. At that time I attended Emperor Wu (Cao Cao) <a posthumous imperial title> overnight in Liu Jingsheng (Liu Biao)'s former audience hall at Jiangling. We spoke of you through the night, our earnest longing truly insatiable. Since the Son of Heaven (Cao Pi) was in the Eastern Palace and after his accession, whenever he assembled worthies and discussed the outstanding survivors of the realm—surely not merely because, with men gone, it is easy to be a hero, or with scholars few, easy to rank first—I, with an aged constitution as decayed as Yuan Rang's, venture to move your sympathetic hearing. Whenever I speak of you, he places you foremost among counselors. His attention to you exceeds that of the previous reign. The Documents says, "In seeking men, prefer the old," and the Changes says, "Like voices respond; like energies seek one another." General Liu (Liu Bei) and Great Wei together embody these two principles. 'Formerly circumstances made agreement become estrangement: that was not Emperor Wu (Cao Cao)'s intention. Recent setbacks turned prosperity into obstruction: neither was that your wish. Thinking deeply on the principles of the Documents and Changes, it is beneficial to renew bonds with old friends. I therefore sent a surrendered man carrying renowned horses, diao pelts, and woolen cloth presented by Wu, hoping you could accept them without suspicion. The route has just opened, allowing old feelings and news to pass. Emotions accumulated through long separation cannot be expressed by pen and ink; I imagine your thoughts are the same. How many children, male and female, do you now have, and how old are they? I successively lost a son and a daughter. I now have two sons: the elder, Su, is twenty-nine and was born at Kuaiji; the younger is barely over a year old. Writing this, I feel sorrow and distant longing.' Another passage says: 'I have heard in the Documents the words "received the succession in the Temple of the Cultured Ancestor," and in the Analects, "Heaven's succession rests upon you; sincerely hold to the center." Who could have thought that in my old age I would witness Heaven's mandate received by our sage ruler (Cao Pi), hear his grand words of three refusals, observe auspicious signs gathered together, see the solemn ceremony of ascending the hall, and behold the blue smoke shining from the sacrificial fire? At that moment I suddenly thought myself in the age of Tang and Yu, at the celestial court of the Purple Enclosure. I only regretted not taking your hand and standing together among the two worthies to hear Tang's command, "Be reverent!" <The source inserts 世, shi, parenthetically in the wording about the two worthies; its exact connection is unclear.> Though you are in remote territory, I imagine you gaze back with strained eyes, incline your ear to listen afar, and crane your neck like a standing crane. 'Formerly Lord Chen of Runan, upon first taking office, departed from precedent and yielded the higher ministerial seat to Li Yuanli (Li Ying). From this I should withdraw to make room for you. If I could yield to you and thus obtain a reputation for deference, then, wearing the ceremonial belt and submitting in service, I could converse among men like Chen Ping and Zhou Bo, recount with you the hardships of our former flight, drink joyfully at a banquet, talk grandly and laugh aloud. That would suffice to leave sorrow and forget age. Holding my brush to express my feelings, I smile as I write. <The source inserts 綬, 'ribbon,' parenthetically before 'belt.'>' Another passage says: 'Last summer I sent a letter that did not arrive. I now write again and enclose the former inquiry. The emperor (Cao Pi) deeply mourns General Liu (Liu Bei)'s early death, pities the difficulty facing his orphaned heir, and regrets that men of your class, Kongming (Zhuge Liang) and the others, should remain submerged among Qiang and foreign peoples, forever separated from the central lands, with no prospect of court visits or of looking upon your native mulberries and catalpas. Thus he again turns his compassionate thoughts and troubles his humane heart, issuing another clear edict with gracious words and instructing us to write again to you and the others. 'With your intelligence, considering the earnest imperial intention, you can surely understand where the sea and Mount Dai have always stood and where the hundred rivers should flow. Formerly Yi Yin left Xia for Yin, and Chen Ping left Chu for Han, yet shone in the office of Aheng and achieved distinction as chancellor. If you can assist another man's orphaned heir, settle his doubts, abandon an irregular false imperial title, and serve Great Wei, which has received the mandate, guest and host will share unparalleled honor, and superior and subordinate enjoy enduring brilliance. Achievement and undertaking will coincide, reputation and merit become manifest. Examining the results, they could surpass Yi Yin and Lü Shang. Having received the edict and being moved by old friendship, I cannot restrain my feelings. <The source adds 直, zhi, parenthetically after 'edict.'> 'Without telling you what you can do and setting forth what lies before you, I could not proclaim the edict, extend its vast favor, or express the longing of former dreams. If Heaven opens all hearts and you guide Shu's intentions, we may truly have a time to take each other's hands. But if the dangerous roads remain unpacified and your counsel is not followed, I fear news may cease: how could we meet again? My two letters repeatedly touch upon this, hoping you cannot fail to be deeply moved. You have traveled the rivers and lakes as far as the southern sea and observed foreign customs everywhere. Your longing for the central lands must be profound. In choosing a residence for yourself, you would still prefer the central country. In choosing safety for your ruler, how can you fail to fix your thoughts upon the capital and remain hesitant in remote lands? <The source inserts 居, 'residence,' parenthetically in this clause.> Consider my foolish words carefully and quickly send a reply.'>

#

Mi Zhu, courtesy name Zizhong, was a native of Qu in Donghai. His family had traded for generations, with ten thousand servants and dependents and immense wealth.

Later Tao Qian, Governor of Xu Province, recruited him as Attendant Officer. After Tao Qian died, Mi Zhu carried out his last instructions and went to welcome the Former Lord (Liu Bei) at Xiaopei. In Jian'an 1, while the Former Lord (Liu Bei) was out resisting Yuan Shu, Lü Bu attacked Xiapi and captured his wife and children. The Former Lord (Liu Bei) moved his army to Haixi in Guangling. Mi Zhu then offered his younger sister as the Former Lord (Liu Bei)'s consort and supplied two thousand slaves and dependents, along with gold, silver, and goods, to support the army. At that time it was destitute and recovered through this assistance. Later Lord Cao (Cao Cao) memorialized to have Mi Zhu concurrently appointed Grand Administrator of Ying Commandery.

Mi Zhu's younger brother Mi Fang became Chancellor of Pengcheng. Both left office to follow the Former Lord (Liu Bei) in his travels. When the Former Lord (Liu Bei) was about to go to Jing Province, he sent Mi Zhu ahead to communicate with Liu Biao and appointed him Gentleman of the Household on the Staff of the General of the Left. After Yi Province was pacified, Mi Zhu became General Who Secures Han, ranking above the General Acting as Military Adviser. He was composed, generous, and refined, but executive ability was not his strength. He was therefore treated as an honored guest and never given actual command. Yet his rewards and favors were without equal.

#

Mi Fang, Grand Administrator of Nan Commandery, served alongside Guan Yu, but their personal relations became estranged. He rebelled and welcomed Sun Quan, causing Guan Yu's defeat. Mi Zhu came with his hands bound before him to request punishment. The Former Lord (Liu Bei) reassured him that a younger brother's guilt did not implicate the elder and continued honoring him as before. Ashamed and distressed, Mi Zhu fell ill and died more than a year later. His son Mi Wei rose to General of the Household of the Tiger Guards. Mi Wei's son Mi Zhao became Supervisor of Tiger Cavalry. From Mi Zhu through Mi Zhao, all were proficient with bows and horses and skilled in archery and driving.

#

Sun Qian, courtesy name Gongyou, was from Beihai. When the Former Lord (Liu Bei) governed Xu Province, he recruited him as an administrative officer.

He subsequently followed the Former Lord (Liu Bei) in his travels. When the Former Lord (Liu Bei) turned against Lord Cao (Cao Cao), he sent Sun Qian to establish ties with Yuan Shao. When about to go to Jing Province, he again sent Sun Qian and Mi Zhu to Liu Biao, and all their missions fulfilled his intentions. Later Liu Biao wrote to Yuan Shang about the conflict between the brothers, saying: 'Whenever I discuss this with Liu, General of the Left (Liu Bei), and Sun Gongyou (Sun Qian), we feel grief to the marrow and sorrow for you.' Such was the respect he received. After the Former Lord (Liu Bei) secured Yi Province, Sun Qian was promoted from Gentleman of the Household on the Staff to General Who Upholds Loyalty. His treatment ranked below Mi Zhu's and equally with Jian Yong's. He died soon afterward.

#

Jian Yong, courtesy name Xianhe, was from Zhuo Commandery. He had known the Former Lord (Liu Bei) since youth and followed him in his travels. When the Former Lord (Liu Bei) reached Jing Province, Jian Yong, Mi Zhu, and Sun Qian all became Gentlemen of the Household on the Staff. Jian Yong regularly served as a conversational envoy, traveling on missions. When the Former Lord (Liu Bei) entered Yi Province, Liu Zhang met Jian Yong and became very fond of him. Later, besieging Chengdu, the Former Lord (Liu Bei) sent Jian Yong to persuade Liu Zhang, who then rode out in the same carriage with him to surrender. The Former Lord (Liu Bei) appointed Jian Yong General Who Manifests Virtue. He was easygoing in manner, simple, proud, and unrestrained. Even when seated with the Former Lord (Liu Bei), he sprawled with legs outstretched or leaned about, abandoning solemn deportment and doing as he pleased. With Zhuge Liang and those below him he monopolized a couch, lay with his head on a pillow, and conversed without deference. During a drought, alcohol was prohibited and brewing punishable. Officials searched a household and found brewing equipment; some proposed the same punishment as for actual brewing. While Jian Yong and the Former Lord (Liu Bei) were out looking about, they saw a man and woman on the road. Jian Yong said: 'Those people intend illicit intercourse. Why not arrest them?' The Former Lord (Liu Bei) asked: 'How do you know?' Jian Yong replied: 'They have the equipment, just like those who intend brewing.' The Former Lord (Liu Bei) laughed heartily and pardoned those accused of intending to brew. Jian Yong's wit was generally of this kind.

#

Yi Ji, courtesy name Jibo, was from Shanyang. When young he depended on his fellow townsman Liu Biao, General Who Guards the South. While the Former Lord (Liu Bei) was in Jing Province, Yi Ji often visited and attached himself to him. After Liu Biao died, he followed the Former Lord (Liu Bei) south across the Yangzi and accompanied him into Yi Province. After its pacification he became Gentleman of the Household on the Staff of the General of the Left, receiving treatment just below Jian Yong, Sun Qian, and the others. He was sent east as envoy to Wu. Hearing of his eloquence, Sun Quan intended to discomfit him with words as soon as he arrived. As Yi Ji entered and bowed, Sun Quan asked: 'Is it hard serving a ruler without the Way?' Yi Ji immediately answered: 'One bow and one rising are hardly hardship.' His quick wit was generally of this kind, and Sun Quan found him extraordinary. Later he was promoted to General Who Manifests Letters. With Zhuge Liang, Fa Zheng, Liu Ba, and Li Yan, he compiled the Shu Regulations: their institutions were the work of these five men.

#

Qin Mi, courtesy name Zichi, was a native of Mianzhu in Guanghan. Talented and learned when young, he repeatedly declined provincial and commandery recruitment, claiming illness. He submitted a memorandum to Governor Liu Yan recommending the scholar Ren Dingzu (Ren An):

#

'Formerly Baili Xi and Jian Shu settled policy in old age, while Gan Luo and Ziqi achieved distinction in youth. Thus the Documents praises the yellow-haired elders and the Changes commends Yan Yuan (Yan Hui). Clearly, selecting scholars for ability does not depend on age. Recently recommendations throughout the realm have generally favored brilliant young men and neglected the old. Opinions differ, with contradictory judgments accompanying one another. This is a leisurely practice for peaceful times, not the urgent work of a disordered age. To rescue danger, calm disorder, cultivate oneself, and secure others, one should be outstanding beyond ordinary comparison, depart from the tendencies of the time, astonish neighboring states, and shake the four quarters, meeting Heaven's heart above and human wishes below. With Heaven and men harmonious and inward examination finding no guilt, what worry or fear need remain amid calamity and disorder? 'Formerly the Lord of Ye (Shen Zhuliang) <a territorial designation> loved dragons, and a divine dragon came down to him. Love of an imitation reached Heaven; how much more love of the real thing! Now the retired scholar Ren An practices humanity, righteousness, and the straight Way; his reputation travels far. If he is now recognized, a whole province will submit. Formerly Tang of Shang (Zi Lü) <a traditional designation for Shang's founding ruler> raised Yi Yin <the source writes 伊芳尹, with an unexplained 芳 between the name's characters>, and the inhumane withdrew. He Wu recommended the two Gong, and their paired names entered the records. To covet a height of a few feet while neglecting a peak of ten thousand ren, or enjoy adornments before one's eyes while forgetting a reputation throughout the realm, is truly what the ancients treated with caution. You wish to cut stone in search of jade and split shells seeking pearls, yet the treasures of Sui and He already shine like the bright sun: what doubt remains? I know that one does not hold a candle by day when the sun supplies abundant light, but in my humble earnestness I wish to set forth my view.'

Commentary<The Biographies of Elders of Yi Province says: Ren An was from Guanghan. When young he studied under Yang Hou, a scholar invited to office, thoroughly investigating texts and charts. He visited the capital and returned home to teach. He and Dong Fu were equally renowned for learning and conduct. The commandery invited him as Merit Officer, and the province recruited him as Administrative Aide and Attendant Officer, but he never remained long. Recommended as Filial and Incorrupt and Flourishing Talent, repeatedly recruited by the Grand Commandant, appointed Erudite, and summoned by the imperial carriage office, he claimed illness and accepted none. Governor Liu Yan recommended him in a memorial: 'Ren An savors the essence of the Way and its measures; his integrity is lofty and remote. Judging his capacity, he is a prime treasure of the state. He should serve as a counselor resolving doubts and dispelling extraordinary calamities. He deserves to be invited with the ceremonial dark and light-red silks.' Because routes to the royal court were blocked, no invitation arrived. He died aged seventy-nine in Jian'an 7. His pupils admired him and erected an inscribed stele. Later Chancellor Zhuge Liang asked Qin Mi what Ren An excelled at. Qin Mi said: 'Remembering people's goodness and forgetting their faults.'>

#

In Liu Zhang's time, Wang Shang of Qin Mi's commandery served as Administrative Aide and wrote to him: 'How long can you spend your life in poverty and hardship? Bian He displayed his jade to illuminate the age. You should come once to meet our provincial lord (Liu Zhang).' Qin Mi replied:

#

'Formerly Yao treated Xu You generously, yet Xu You washed both ears. Chu's invitation to Zhuang Zhou was expansive, yet he held his fishing rod and would not look back. The Changes says, "Firmly established, he cannot be uprooted." What display is there? Moreover, with a worthy ruler and yourself as an excellent assistant, failing at this time to devise the strategies of Xiao He and Zhang Liang is hardly wisdom. I can warm my back among the fields, recite of Yan Hui's basket and gourd, and sing of Yuan Xian's humble doorway. Sometimes I roam woods and marshes with men like Changju and Jieni, listening to dark apes' mournful cries and observing cranes calling in the deep marsh. Bodily security is my pleasure and freedom from worry my blessing. I possess an empty reputation and remain like a tortoise that declines sacred honors. Few know me, and thus I am valued. This is precisely the season when my wishes are fulfilled. What grief is there in hardship?' Later Wang Shang established shrines for Yan Junping (Yan Zun) and Li Hong. Qin Mi wrote: 'Hidden by illness, I have only now learned that you established shrines for Yan Zun and Li Hong. You may be called generous to your associates and diligent toward men of your kind. Yan Zun's writings crown the realm; his lofty conduct, like Xu You's and Boyi's, is immovable as a mountain. Even without Master Yang (Yang Xiong)'s praise, it would clearly shine. But had Li Zhongyuan (Li Hong) not encountered the Model Sayings, his fine reputation would surely have vanished, for he lacked the tiger's and leopard's outward pattern. He may be called one who climbed upon dragons and attached himself to phoenixes. As for Yang Ziyun (Yang Xiong), he devoted himself to writings beneficial to the age. Mud did not stain him <the source writes 泥幡不滓, whose middle wording is textually uncertain>, and his conduct approached the sage teacher's. Now throughout the realm people discuss and recite his words. Our region has such a man to illuminate distant places: I wonder that you neglect him and erect no shrine. 'Shu originally had no learned scholars. Wen Weng sent Sima Xiangru east to receive the Seven Classics, and he returned to teach officials and people. Shu's learning then matched Qi and Lu. Thus the Treatise on Geography says, "Wen Weng initiated the teaching, and Sima Xiangru served as its teacher." The Han house's acquisition of scholars flourished in his time. Dong Zhongshu and his followers did not understand the Feng and Shan sacrifices, but Sima Xiangru fashioned their rites. Does not one who can establish ritual and music and transform customs deserve a place in ceremonial honors for benefiting the age? Though burdened by the affair of Wangsun, he is like Duke Huan of Qi (Jiang Xiaobai) <a duke's posthumous title>, whose hegemony Confucius praised, or Shushu, whose yielding the Gongyang tradition esteemed. I too admire Changqing (Sima Xiangru)'s transforming influence. You should erect a shrine and quickly settle its inscription.'

#

Earlier Li Quan had asked to borrow the Strategies of the Warring States from Qin Mi. Qin Mi said: 'The alliances and intrigues of the Warring States—what use are they?' Li Quan answered: 'Zhongni (Confucius) and Yan Ping (Yan Zun) gathered many books to compose the Spring and Autumn Annals and the Guiding Principles. The sea becomes great by joining streams, and the gentleman becomes broad through extensive knowledge.' Qin Mi replied:

#

'Unless a text belonged to historical records or Zhou's charts, Zhongni (Confucius) did not select it. Unless a principle accorded with emptiness, nonbeing, and naturalness, Yan Ping (Yan Zun) did not expound it. The sea receives mud but clears itself with a yearly surging. A gentleman knows widely but does not look upon what violates ritual. The shifting arts of Zhang Yi and Su Qin in the Warring States killed others to preserve oneself and destroyed others to secure oneself: these are what the classics condemn. Thus Confucius, moved by indignation, composed the Spring and Autumn Annals, exalting uprightness, and also fashioned the Classic of Filial Piety, broadly setting forth virtuous conduct. He prevented the gradual beginnings of evil and restrained it in advance. Is it not true that Laozi cuts off disaster before it sprouts? Cheng Tang (Zi Lü), a great sage, saw fish in the wild and fell into the error of hunting and pursuit. Duke Ding of Lu (Ji Song) <a duke's posthumous title>, a worthy man, saw female musicians and abandoned court affairs—'

'—examples of this sort cannot be exhausted. A Daoist rule says, "Do not display what is desired, so the heart is not disturbed." Thus Heaven and Earth reveal themselves through constancy, and the sun and moon shine through constancy. Straight as an arrow is what shelters a gentleman. The Great Plan records calamities arising from speech and demeanor. What place is there for the deceitful expedients of the Warring States?'

#

Someone asked Qin Mi: 'You wish to compare yourself with Chao Fu, Xu You, and the Four Graybeards. Why then display literary ornament and show your outstanding brilliance?' Qin Mi replied: 'My writing cannot exhaust my words, and my words cannot exhaust my meaning. What literary display have I made? Formerly Confucius met Duke Ai of Lu (Ji Jiang) <a duke's posthumous title> three times, and his words formed seven scrolls. Some matters cannot be met with silence.'

'Jieyu sang as he walked, and the Analects used it to illuminate a chapter; the fisherman sang of Canglang, and worthy writers used it to adorn their pages. Neither man desired involvement in the times. A tiger is born patterned, and a phoenix with five colors. Do they decorate and paint themselves with those colors? It is their natural constitution. The Yellow River and Luo writings arose through patterns, and the Six Classics through patterned expression. The gentleman cultivates literary virtue: what harm is there in ornament? Even in my foolishness I am ashamed of Ge Zicheng's error, much more should those worthier than I be!' <The source contains the unresolved marks ?? after 文 in the tiger phrase, and writes 革子成, Ge Zicheng; both textual problems remain visible for review.>

#

After the Former Lord (Liu Bei) secured Yi Province, Xiahou Zuan, Grand Administrator of Guanghan, invited Qin Mi as Libationer Serving as Teacher and Friend, concurrently Assistant of the Five Offices, and called him Zhongfu <"Uncle-Father," an honorific expressing high respect>. Claiming illness, Qin Mi lay in his residence. Xiahou Zuan brought Merit Officer Gu Pu and Registrar Wang Pu, along with food, to feast and converse at Qin Mi's house, but Qin Mi remained lying down. Xiahou Zuan asked Gu Pu: 'Your province's means of sustaining life truly surpass all others. How do its scholars compare?' Gu Pu replied: 'Since Former Han, their ranks and offices have perhaps fallen below those of other provinces, but in writings that serve as models for the age they yield to none. Yan Junping (Yan Zun) read the teachings of the Yellow Emperor (Xuanyuan) <a legendary ancestral ruler's designation; a historical personal name is not established here> and Laozi and composed the Guiding Principles; Yang Xiong read the Changes and composed the Great Words <太言 in this text, differing from the commonly recorded title 太玄, Supreme Mystery>, and read the Analects and composed the Model Sayings. Sima Xiangru assisted Emperor Wu (Liu Che) <the Han emperor's posthumous title> in composing the writings for the Feng and Shan sacrifices. All this is known throughout the realm.' Xiahou Zuan asked: 'What of Zhongfu (Qin Mi)?' Qin Mi struck his cheek with a tablet

and said:

#

'I ask you, Administrator, not to bestow the name Zhongfu upon a little blade of grass like me. Let me set forth our land's origins for you. Shu has Mount Wenfu, from whose midst the Yangzi emerges. The sovereign thereby meets flourishing fortune, and spirits establish blessings; thus there are a thousand li of fertile plains.'

'Among the four great waterways, including the Huai and Ji, the Yangzi is foremost: this is the first point. Yu was born at Shiniu, in what is now Wenshan Commandery.' <Continuation of Qin Mi's reply.>

'Formerly Yao encountered the great flood, which Gun could not control. Yu opened the Yangzi's channels and cut through the Yellow River, directing them east into the sea and removing harm for the people <the source writes 徐害; the intended reading is uncertain>. Since human life began, no achievement has surpassed it: this is the second point. The Heavenly Sovereign spreads his governance through the Fang and Xin constellations and decides affairs through Shen and Fa. Shen and Fa correspond to Yi Province. The Three Sovereigns rode in a zhi carriage out of the valley mouth, which is today's Xie Valley.' <Continuation of Qin Mi's reply.>

'These places are the paths and fields of our humble province. Judging with your refined understanding, Administrator, how does it compare with the rest of the realm?'

#

Xiahou Zuan thereupon hesitated and had no reply.

#

Yi Province recruited Qin Mi as Libationer among the Administrative Officers. After the Former Lord (Liu Bei) assumed the imperial title and intended to campaign east against Wu, Qin Mi argued that the heavenly timing would certainly be unfavorable. For this he was imprisoned in confinement, then pardoned and released. In Jianxing 2, Chancellor Zhuge Liang concurrently became Governor of Yi Province and selected Qin Mi, welcoming him as Attendant Officer. Soon he appointed him General of the Household of the Left and Colonel of the Long Waters. Wu sent Zhang Wen on a diplomatic visit, and all the officials went to see him off. Everyone had assembled except Qin Mi. Zhuge Liang repeatedly sent messengers to hurry him. Zhang Wen asked: 'Who is he?' Zhuge Liang said: 'A learned scholar of Yi Province.' Upon arriving, Zhang Wen asked Qin Mi: 'Have you studied?' Qin Mi replied: 'Even children five chi tall study. Why ask only a humble man like me?' Zhang Wen asked: 'Does Heaven have a head?' Qin Mi said: 'It does.' 'In which direction?' 'In the west. The Odes says, "He turned his gaze westward." From this, its head is in the west.' 'Does Heaven have ears?' Qin Mi said: 'Heaven dwells high but hears the low. The Odes says, "The crane cries in the deep marsh; its voice is heard in Heaven." Without ears, how could it hear?' 'Does Heaven have feet?' Qin Mi said: 'Yes. The Odes says, "Heaven's steps are difficult; this man does not follow." Without feet, how could it step?' 'Does Heaven have a surname?' 'Yes.' 'What surname?' 'Liu.' 'How do you know?' He answered: 'The Son of Heaven (Liu Shan) has the surname Liu; thus I know.' Zhang Wen asked: 'Is the sun born in the east?' Qin Mi said: 'Though born in the east, it sets in the west.' His answers followed like echoes, emerging immediately. Zhang Wen greatly respected and admired him. Qin Mi's literary eloquence was generally of this kind. He was promoted to Minister of Agriculture and died in Jianxing 4. Earlier Qin Mi had examined the account of imperial genealogy in which the Five Emperors all belonged to one lineage and argued against its basis. He also discussed the accounts of emperors, kings, and hegemons and of rearing dragons, with much sound reasoning. <The source prints 養, 'raise,' parenthetically and supplies 豢, 'rear,' in brackets in the dragon phrase.> When young, Qiao Yunnan (Qiao Zhou) repeatedly visited to consult him and recorded his words in the Discussion of the Rights and Wrongs of the Spring and Autumn Annals. As the text is extensive, it is not included.

#

Appraisal: Xu Jing had an early reputation for integrity and was praised for deep generosity and concern with judging people. Although not all his actions and conduct were fitting, Jiang Ji considered him 'on the whole, material for the council hall.'

Mi Zhu, Sun Qian, Jian Yong, and Yi Ji were all composed and refined in discussion and received respect in their age. Qin Mi initially admired the lofty ideal of honorable withdrawal but lacked the substance of seeming foolish. Yet he was more than equal to answering on his own, and his literary expression was vigorous and splendid. He may be called a talented scholar of his time. <Yi Ji is written 伊藉 here, differing from 伊籍 in his biography; the identification follows the context.>