Book of Wu · Biography of the Ruler of Wu (Sun Quan) — English Translation

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Sun Quan's courtesy name was Zhongmou. When his elder brother Sun Ce had secured the commanderies, Sun Quan was fifteen and was appointed Magistrate of Yangxian.

The commandery recommended him as Filial and Incorrupt, the province as an Outstanding Talent, and he became acting Colonel Who Upholds Righteousness. Because Sun Ce maintained distant tribute, Han sent envoy Liu Wan with additional honors. Liu Wan told others: “Though Sun's brothers are talented and discerning, their fortunes will not endure. Only the middle brother, the Filial and Incorrupt nominee [Sun Quan], has an extraordinary appearance and bearing, signs of great distinction, and the longest life. Mark my words.”

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In Jian'an 4, Sun Quan accompanied Sun Ce against Administrator of Lujiang Liu Xun. After defeating him, they advanced against Huang Zu at Shaxian. In the fifth year, Sun Ce died and entrusted affairs to Sun Quan. Before Sun Quan ceased weeping, Sun Ce's Chief Clerk Zhang Zhao said: “Is this a time for tears? The Duke of Zhou (Ji Dan) <a founding statesman and regent of Zhou> established rules, yet Boqin did not follow them—not from disobedience to his father, but because circumstances prevented it—

—and now treacherous men compete and wolves fill the roads. To mourn relatives and attend solely to ritual is like opening the gate to welcome bandits. It cannot be called benevolence.” He changed Sun Quan's clothing, helped him onto a horse, and had him inspect the army. At this time they held only Kuaiji, Wu, Danyang, Yuzhang, and Luling, and even the remote strongholds were not wholly obedient. Heroes were scattered throughout the provinces, while displaced scholars chose where to serve according to safety and danger, without firm bonds of ruler and minister. Zhang Zhao, Zhou Yu, and the others believed Sun Quan could achieve great things with them and devoted themselves to his service. Duke Cao (Cao Cao) <a respectful designation for Cao Cao> recommended him as General Who Attacks the Enemy and concurrent Administrator of Kuaiji. Sun Quan remained at Wu and sent the Assistant Administrator to conduct the commandery's paperwork. He treated Zhang Zhao as a teacher and used Zhou Yu, Cheng Pu, Lü Fan, and the others as commanders. Recruiting talented and renowned men, he first received Lu Su, Zhuge Jin, and the others as guests. He assigned generals to pacify the Shanyue and attack those refusing obedience.

CommentaryThe Account of the Lands Beyond the Yangzi says: Sun Ce had recommended Li Shu as Administrator of Lujiang. After Sun Ce died, Li Shu refused to serve Sun Quan and sheltered his deserters. Asked to return them, he answered: “People join the virtuous and desert the unvirtuous. They should not be returned.” Furious, Sun Quan reported to Duke Cao (Cao Cao): “The late Inspector Yan [Yan Xiang] served you and recommended me through the province. Yet Li Shu violated Han's institutions and killed the provincial authority. He should be destroyed to warn the wicked. I wish to attack him, serving the court by eliminating a great criminal and repaying my recommending officer's grievance. This is universally acknowledged righteousness and my constant desire. Li Shu will fear punishment and deceitfully seek rescue. You occupy the chief minister's position and are watched by the realm. Order your officials not to receive his appeal.” That year Sun Quan attacked Li Shu at Wan. Li Shu defended behind closed gates and asked Duke Cao (Cao Cao) for help, which was refused. Food ran out, and some women swallowed balls of mud. The city was stormed, Li Shu beheaded, and more than thirty thousand of his followers relocated.

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In the seventh year, Sun Quan's mother, Lady Wu, died.

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In the eighth year, Sun Quan attacked Huang Zu westward, defeating his fleet but not taking the city. Mountain raiders rose again. Returning through Yuzhang, he sent Lü Fan against Poyang and Cheng Pu against Le'an [the source inserts Kuaiji parenthetically]. Taishi Ci took charge of Haihun, while Han Dang, Zhou Tai, Lü Meng, and the others became magistrates of troubled counties.

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In the ninth year, Sun Quan's younger brother, Administrator of Danyang Sun Yi, was killed by attendants. His older cousin Sun Yu replaced him.

CommentaryThe Record of Wu says: At a great gathering, Shen You criticized affairs. Sun Quan had him removed, saying, “People say you intend rebellion.” Knowing escape was impossible, Shen You replied: “The sovereign is at Xu. Is one who disregards his ruler not a rebel?” He was killed. Shen You, courtesy name Zizheng, was from Wu Commandery. At eleven, he met Hua Xin inspecting customs. Struck by him, Hua Xin asked, “Young Shen, may you join my carriage to talk?” Shen You withdrew: “Gentlemen form friendships and meet according to ritual. Benevolence declines and the sages' Way deteriorates. You bear a commission to restore former kings' teaching and regulate customs. Yet to act without dignity is like carrying firewood to a fire. Will it not intensify the blaze?” Ashamed, Hua Xin said: “Since Emperors Huan (Liu Zhi) and Ling (Liu Hong) <rulers of late Eastern Han>, many outstanding men have appeared, but no child like this.” By adulthood, Shen You was learned, a fine writer, interested in warfare, and an annotator of Sunzi's military text. His eloquence silenced every gathering. His brush, tongue, and sword were all considered exceptional. Sun Quan respectfully recruited him, valued his discussions of kingship and current affairs, and accepted his plan to absorb Jing Province. Upright and severe in public criticism, he was slandered by mediocre officials as a rebel. Sun Quan also thought he would never serve him fully and therefore killed him, aged twenty-nine.

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In the tenth year, Sun Quan sent He Qi against Shangrao and separated territory to create Jianping County.

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In the twelfth year, he campaigned west against Huang Zu and returned with captives.

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In spring of the thirteenth year, he attacked Huang Zu again. Huang Zu sent naval forces ahead, but Commandant Lü Meng broke his vanguard. Ling Tong, Dong Xi, and the others attacked with all their strength and took the city. Huang Zu fled alone; horseman Feng Ze pursued and beheaded him. Several tens of thousands of men and women were captured. That year, He Qi was sent against Yi and She—

—and She was divided to create Shixin and Xinding—

—and Liyang and Xiuyang counties—

—with the six counties forming Xindu Commandery. Governor of Jing Province Liu Biao died. Lu Su requested permission to console his two sons and assess events. Before he arrived, Duke Cao (Cao Cao) reached their borders, and Liu Biao's son Liu Cong surrendered his forces. Liu Bei intended to cross the Yangzi southward. Lu Su met him, conveyed Sun Quan's intentions, and discussed success and failure. Liu Bei advanced to Xiakou and sent Zhuge Liang to Sun Quan, who dispatched Zhou Yu, Cheng Pu, and the others. Duke Cao (Cao Cao), newly commanding Liu Biao's forces, was overwhelmingly strong. Most advisers were frightened and urged submission—

—but Zhou Yu and Lu Su firmly advocated resistance, agreeing with Sun Quan. Zhou Yu and Cheng Pu became Left and Right Commanders, each leading ten thousand men. Advancing with Liu Bei, they met Duke Cao (Cao Cao)'s army at Red Cliffs and decisively defeated it. Duke Cao (Cao Cao) burned his remaining ships and withdrew. Hunger and epidemic killed more than half his soldiers. Liu Bei, Zhou Yu, and the others pursued to Nan Commandery. Duke Cao (Cao Cao) returned north, leaving Cao Ren and Xu Huang at Jiangling and Yue Jin at Xiangyang. Gan Ning at Yiling was surrounded by Cao Ren's supporters. Following Lü Meng's plan, Ling Tong remained against Cao Ren while half the force rescued Gan Ning and returned victorious. Sun Quan personally besieged Hefei and sent Zhang Zhao against Dangtu in Jiujiang. Zhang Zhao's army fared poorly, and Sun Quan could not take Hefei after more than a month. Returning from Jing Province, Duke Cao (Cao Cao) sent Zhang Xi with cavalry to relieve it. Before his arrival, Sun Quan withdrew.

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In the fourteenth year, Zhou Yu and Cao Ren had confronted one another for over a year, suffering heavy casualties. Cao Ren abandoned the city. Sun Quan made Zhou Yu Administrator of Nan Commandery. Liu Bei recommended Sun Quan as acting General of Chariots and Cavalry and concurrent Governor of Xu Province. Liu Bei took charge as Governor of Jing Province, stationed at Gong'an.

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In the fifteenth year, Poyang Commandery was separated from Yuzhang, and Hanchang from Changsha. Lu Su became its administrator and camped at Lukou.

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In the sixteenth year, Sun Quan moved his administration to Moling. Next year, he fortified Shitou and renamed Moling Jianye. Hearing of Duke Cao (Cao Cao)'s intended invasion, he built the Ruxu fort.

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In the first month of the eighteenth year, Duke Cao (Cao Cao) attacked Ruxu. They confronted each other for more than a month. Observing Sun Quan's disciplined army, Duke Cao (Cao Cao) sighed in admiration and withdrew.

CommentaryThe Chronicle of Wu says: At Ruxu, Duke Cao (Cao Cao) made oil-treated boats and crossed to an island at night. Sun Quan's fleet surrounded them and captured more than three thousand men; several thousand more drowned. Sun Quan repeatedly challenged battle, but Duke Cao (Cao Cao) held firm. Sun Quan came in a light boat into his lines from Baxu Mouth. The generals wished to attack, but Duke Cao (Cao Cao) said: “Sun Quan must wish to inspect our formations himself.” He ordered strict discipline and forbade random shooting. Sun Quan traveled five or six li, then returned with music. Seeing the orderly ships, weapons, and ranks, Duke Cao (Cao Cao) said: “One should have a son like Sun Zhongmou [Sun Quan]. Liu Jingsheng's [Liu Biao's] sons are pigs and dogs!” Sun Quan wrote: “Spring waters rise; you should depart quickly.” Another sheet said: “Until you die, I cannot rest.” Duke Cao (Cao Cao) told the generals, “Sun Quan does not deceive me,” and withdrew. A Brief History of Wei says: Sun Quan came in a large ship to inspect. Duke Cao (Cao Cao) ordered bows and crossbows fired. Arrows weighted one side until it nearly capsized. Sun Quan turned the other side to receive arrows; balanced again, the ship returned. [Translator's note: These are differing accounts, not a story of Zhuge Liang borrowing arrows.]

Initially, fearing Sun Quan would seize riverside counties, Duke Cao (Cao Cao) ordered their populations inland. Alarm spread, and more than a hundred thousand households of Lujiang, Jiujiang, Qichun, and Guangling crossed eastward over the Yangzi. The western bank became empty; south of Hefei, only Wan remained.

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In the fifth month of the nineteenth year, Sun Quan attacked Wan and took it in the intercalary month, capturing Administrator of Lujiang Zhu Guang, Military Adviser Dong He, and several tens of thousands of men and women. Liu Bei settled Shu that year. Sun Quan sent Zhuge Jin to demand Jing's commanderies. Liu Bei refused: “I am planning for Liang Province. When it is settled, I shall give all Jing to Wu.” Sun Quan said: “He borrows and does not return, delaying years with empty words.” He appointed officials to the three southern commanderies, but Guan Yu expelled them. Furious, Sun Quan sent Lü Meng with Xianyu Dan, Xu Zhong, Sun Gui, and twenty thousand troops against Changsha, Lingling, and Guiyang. Lu Su took ten thousand to Baqiu—

—to resist Guan Yu. Sun Quan stayed at Lukou directing the armies. Two commanderies submitted; only Administrator of Lingling Hao Pu resisted. Liu Bei reached Gong'an and sent Guan Yu with thirty thousand to Yiyang. Sun Quan recalled Lü Meng to assist Lu Su. Lü Meng induced Hao Pu to surrender, obtaining all three commanderies' commanders and administrators, then returned with Sun Jiao and Pan Zhang to join Lu Su against Guan Yu at Yiyang. Before battle, Duke Cao (Cao Cao) entered Hanzhong. Fearing for Yi Province, Liu Bei sought peace. Sun Quan sent Zhuge Jin to renew the alliance. Jing was divided: Changsha, Jiangxia, and Guiyang eastward belonged to Sun Quan; Nan Commandery, Lingling, and Wuling westward to Liu Bei. Liu Bei returned, and Duke Cao (Cao Cao) had already withdrawn. Sun Quan returned from Lukou and attacked Hefei. Failing to take it, he withdrew. After the main troops departed, Sun Quan, Ling Tong, Gan Ning, and the others remained north of the ford and were attacked by Wei's Zhang Liao. Ling Tong and the others defended him desperately. Sun Quan escaped on a fine horse by leaping the ford bridge.

CommentaryThe Spring and Autumn Annals of Emperor Xian (Liu Xie) <the last Han emperor> says: Zhang Liao asked a Wu prisoner, “Who was the purple-bearded general, long above and short below, skilled at riding and archery?” “Sun of Kuaiji [Sun Quan].” Meeting Yue Jin, Zhang Liao regretted not recognizing him sooner: a swift pursuit could have captured him. The whole army sighed. The Account of the Lands Beyond the Yangzi says: At the bridge, more than a zhang of planking had been removed on the south. Gu Li, behind Sun Quan's horse, told him to hold the saddle and loosen the reins, then whipped the horse from behind, helping it leap across. Sun Quan made him Marquis of Duting. Gu Li had been an attendant, promoted for prudence and uprightness to Supervisor of Intimates. Loyal, resolute, and frank, he was loved and trusted by Sun Quan.

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In winter of the twenty-first year, Duke Cao (Cao Cao) reached Juchao and attacked Ruxu.

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In spring of the twenty-second year, Sun Quan sent Commandant Xu Xiang to Duke Cao (Cao Cao) to seek submission. Duke Cao (Cao Cao) sent an envoy in return to establish friendship, renewing oaths and arranging marriage ties.

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In the tenth month of the twenty-third year, traveling toward Wu, Sun Quan personally hunted a tiger on horseback at Chengting—

—and the tiger wounded his horse. Sun Quan threw two halberds, driving it back and disabling it. Attendant Zhang Shi struck it with a dagger-axe and captured it.

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In the twenty-fourth year, Guan Yu besieged Cao Ren at Xiangyang. Duke Cao (Cao Cao) sent General of the Left Yu Jin to rescue him, but the Han River suddenly flooded. Guan Yu captured all thirty thousand infantry and cavalry of Yu Jin's force with boat troops and sent them to Jiangling, though the city remained untaken. Fearing Guan Yu inwardly but wishing to claim merit outwardly, Sun Quan wrote Duke Cao (Cao Cao) offering to attack him. Duke Cao (Cao Cao), wishing the two to contend, circulated the letter by relay and had Cao Ren shoot copies to Guan Yu with crossbows. Guan Yu hesitated and could not leave. In the intercalary month, Sun Quan campaigned against him, sending Lü Meng ahead to seize Gong'an and capture General Shi Ren. At Nan Commandery, Administrator Mi Fang surrendered the city. Lü Meng occupied Jiangling, comforted the old and weak, and freed Yu Jin. Lu Xun separately took Yidu and secured Zigui, Zhijiang, and Yidao, then guarded the gorge mouth from Yiling against Shu. Guan Yu returned to Dangyang and held Maicheng in the west. Sun Quan sought to entice him. Guan Yu feigned surrender, set banners and dummy figures on the walls, and escaped. His men scattered until little more than ten horsemen remained. Sun Quan had already sent Zhu Ran and Pan Zhang to cut off the paths. In the twelfth month, Pan Zhang's Major Ma Zhong captured Guan Yu, his son Guan Ping, and commander Zhao Lei at Zhangxiang, settling Jing Province. A great epidemic occurred that year; all Jing's rents and taxes were remitted. Duke Cao (Cao Cao) recommended Sun Quan as General of Agile Cavalry with credentials and concurrent Governor of Jing Province, enfeoffed as Marquis of Nanchang. Sun Quan sent Colonel Liang Yu with tribute to Han, ordered Wang Dun to buy horses, and sent Zhu Guang and the others back.

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In spring of the twenty-fifth year, in the first month, Duke Cao (Cao Cao) died. Crown Prince Cao Pi succeeded as Chancellor and King of Wei (Cao Pi), naming the era Yankang. In autumn, Wei's general Mei Fu sent Zhang Jian to seek an audience and acceptance. Five thousand households came over from the five counties of Yin, Zan, and Zhuyang—

—together with Shandu and Zhonglu in Nanyang. In winter, Wei's succeeding King (Cao Pi) assumed the imperial title and named the era Huangchu.

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In the fourth month of the second year [Huangchu], Liu Bei proclaimed himself emperor in Shu.

Sun Quan moved his capital from Gong'an to E, renaming it Wuchang. Wuchang, Xiazhi, Xunyang, Yangxin, Chaisang, and Shaxian formed Wuchang Commandery. In the fifth month, Jianye reported sweet dew. In the eighth month, Wuchang was fortified. Sun Quan ordered the generals: “Remember destruction while surviving and danger while secure: this is ancient good teaching. Juan Buyi, a famous Han minister, kept a sword even in peaceful times. A gentleman cannot abandon military precautions. How much less may we, on a frontier among wolves, neglect unforeseen danger! I hear generals travel modestly without armed escorts. This fails to protect yourselves. Preserve yourselves and your names to secure ruler and kin, rather than risk disgrace. Be deeply vigilant and fulfill my intention.” After Emperor Wen of Wei (Cao Pi) took the throne, Sun Quan's envoys declared him a vassal, and Yu Jin and the others were returned. In the eleventh month, Sun Quan received this investiture: “Sage kings establish rank by virtue and emoluments by achievement. Greater service receives greater wealth; greater virtue, fuller ceremony. Uncle Dan [the Duke of Zhou (Ji Dan)] assisted the ruler, and the Grand Duke (Lü Shang) <a founding statesman of Zhou, also called Jiang Ziya> displayed soaring martial power. Both received territories and complete ceremonial gifts to distinguish great service. At Han's beginning, Emperor Gaozu (Liu Bang) <High Ancestor; the founder of Han> divided fertile lands among kings of eight surnames. These excellent precedents guide later rulers. “Though unworthy, I have received the cycle, changed the Mandate, ruled the myriad states, and grasped Heaven's governing mechanism. Wishing to match earlier ages, I sit awaiting dawn. You possess natural loyalty and clarity, an exceptional assistant who understands the allotted succession and the rise and fall of states. Your envoys came from afar over the Qian and Han waters—

—and you attached yourself readily, submitting memorials as a vassal, presenting fine southern cloth, and returning the generals to their own court. Loyalty arose within and sincerity shone without, trust inscribed on metal and stone, righteousness surpassing mountains and rivers. I greatly commend you. “I now enfeoff you as King of Wu (Sun Quan), sending Grand Minister of Ceremonies and Marquis of Gaoping (Xing Zhen) with credentials to deliver the seal, ribbon, investiture document, gold tiger tallies numbered one through five, and left bamboo mission tallies one through ten. As General-in-Chief with credentials, supervise Jiao Province and concurrently administer Jing Province. I grant blue earth wrapped in white grass to receive my command and govern the eastern lands. Return your former seals, ribbons, tallies, and documents as General of Agile Cavalry and Marquis of Nanchang. I also add the Nine Bestowments. Hear the following command reverently. “You secured the southeast and ordered the lands beyond the Yangzi, giving Chinese and non-Chinese peaceful livelihoods without division. Therefore I grant one great ceremonial carriage and one war carriage, with two teams of four black stallions. You promoted wealth and farming, filling granaries and treasuries: therefore I grant embroidered ceremonial robes and crown, with red shoes. You transformed the people through virtue and advanced ritual teaching: therefore I grant music suspended on three sides. You spread good customs and cherished the Hundred Yue: therefore I grant a vermilion gate for your dwelling. You used talent and appointed worthy men: therefore I grant an interior approach stair. You displayed loyalty and courage and removed treachery: therefore I grant one hundred Tiger Guards. You exerted majestic power in southern Jing, beheading evil men and apprehending the guilty: therefore I grant one execution axe of each kind. You harmonized civil affairs within and upheld martial trust abroad: therefore I grant one red bow and a hundred red arrows, ten black bows and a thousand black arrows. You founded yourself on loyal reverence and practiced respect and frugality: therefore I grant one vessel of black-millet sacrificial wine, with a jade-handled ladle. Be reverent! Spread these instructions, obey my command, assist our state diligently, and preserve your illustrious achievement forever.”

CommentaryThe Account of the Lands Beyond the Yangzi says: Sun Quan's ministers thought he should style himself Supreme General and Earl of the Nine Provinces, not accept Wei's grant. Sun Quan answered: “An Earl of the Nine Provinces is unheard of in antiquity. The Duke of Pei (Liu Bang) accepted appointment as King of Han (Liu Bang) from Xiang Yu. This is a temporary expedient. What harm does it do?” He accepted. Sun Sheng says: “Bo Yi and Shu Qi would not submit to Zhou; Lu Zhonglian would not become Qin's subject. Even ordinary men refused humiliation for righteousness' sake. How could a ruler holding a third of the realm shift between submission and refusal? Wu and Shu both claimed to serve Han, but when Han's age ended neither held firmly to a subject's integrity. Thus one could know they would fail to prosper in posterity and be absorbed by a greater state. Had Sun Quan followed his ministers and remained a Han general lifelong, would his righteousness not have moved the realm and his benevolence a hundred generations?”

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That year, Liu Bei's army attacked as far as Wushan and Zigui. His envoys induced Wuling's peoples to join him with seals, credentials, and promised honors. The counties and Five Streams communities rebelled for Shu. Sun Quan appointed Lu Xun commander over Zhu Ran, Pan Zhang, and the others to resist. He sent Commandant Zhao Zi to Wei. The Wei emperor (Cao Pi) asked, “What sort of ruler is the King of Wu (Sun Quan)?” Zhao Zi replied: “Intelligent, discerning, benevolent, wise, and possessed of heroic strategy.” Asked for particulars, he said: “Receiving Lu Su from ordinary standing shows intelligence; promoting Lü Meng from the ranks, discernment; sparing the captured Yu Jin, benevolence; taking Jing without bloody blades, wisdom; holding three provinces and surveying the realm like a tiger, heroism; submitting to Your Majesty, strategy.”

CommentaryThe Book of Wu says: Zhao Zi, courtesy name Dedu, was from Nanyang, widely learned and quick in response. As King of Wu (Sun Quan), Sun Quan promoted him to Grand Master of the Center and sent him to Wei. Emperor Wen of Wei (Cao Pi) admired him and teased: “Does the King of Wu (Sun Quan) know learning?” He replied: “With ten thousand ships and a million armored men, he employs the worthy and capable and plans great affairs. In spare time he reads classics and history and gathers unusual knowledge, rather than imitating students picking through chapters and phrases.” “Can Wu be conquered?” “The great state has armies for conquest; the small state has firm defenses.” “Does Wu fear Wei?” “With a million armored men and the Yangzi and Han as moats, what is there to fear?” “How many men like you has Wu?” “Eighty or ninety are exceptionally brilliant. Men like me can be carted and measured by the bushel, beyond counting.” His repeated northern missions won respect. Sun Quan made him Cavalry Commandant. Zhao Zi advised: “The north will not keep the alliance. Our court succeeds Han's four-hundred-year cycle and answers the southeast's fortune. Change the era and ceremonial colors to accord with Heaven and the people.” Sun Quan accepted.

The Emperor (Cao Pi) wished to enfeoff Sun Quan's son Sun Deng. Citing his youth, Sun Quan declined and sent Western Office Officer Shen Heng to explain and present local products.

CommentaryThe Book of Wu says: Shen Heng, courtesy name Zhongshan, was from Wu Commandery. He studied the classics, especially the inner and outer traditions of the Spring and Autumn Annals. Sun Quan sent him to Wei for his wisdom and diplomatic skill. Emperor Wen of Wei (Cao Pi) asked whether Wu suspected Wei's eastward movement. “No.” “Why?” “We trust the old alliance and its promise of friendship. If Wei breaks it, we have preparations.” Asked whether the heir would come, he replied: “At the eastern court I do not sit in its councils or join its banquets. I have heard no such discussion.” The Emperor (Cao Pi) admired him, drew him near, and conversed all day, finding no answer he could overcome. Shen Heng reported: “I privately observed Palace Attendant Liu Ye repeatedly devise treacherous plans for the enemy. They will not remain sincere. Military wisdom relies not on the enemy's failure to attack, but on our being unassailable. Cease other services and concentrate on farming and mulberries to expand military resources. Repair ships and carts, increase weapons, and fill all requirements. Care for soldiers and people, attract talent, and encourage commanders; then the realm can be planned for.” Honored for his mission, he became Marquis of Yong'an Township and eventually Privy Treasurer.

Sun Deng was established as royal heir apparent.

CommentaryThe Account of the Lands Beyond the Yangzi says: That year, Emperor Wen of Wei (Cao Pi) requested sparrow-head incense, great shells, pearls, ivory, rhinoceros horn, tortoiseshell, peacocks, kingfishers, fighting ducks, and long-crowing chickens. Ministers said Jing and Yang had fixed tribute rules and these rarities were improper demands. Sun Quan answered: “Hui Shi once honored Qi with royal status. Challenged for contradicting his doctrine, he said: ‘If someone wishes to strike his beloved son's head and a stone may take its place, the head matters and the stone does not. Why not substitute the light for the weighty?’ With troubles west and north, the people beyond the Yangzi depend upon their ruler for life. Are they not my beloved children? What he demands is tile and stone to me. Why begrudge it? While in mourning he makes such demands—can ritual even be discussed with him?” He supplied everything.

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In spring of Huangwu 1, in the first month, Lu Xun's subordinate General Song Qian and the others took five Shu camps and killed their commanders. In the third month, Poyang reported a yellow dragon. Shu occupied strategic ground in more than fifty successive camps. Lu Xun opposed them according to their strength and, between the first and intercalary months, decisively defeated them. Several tens of thousands were killed in battle or laid down arms and surrendered. Liu Bei fled, barely escaping alive.

CommentaryThe Chronicle of Wu says: Sun Quan reported the victory to Wei, sending captured seals, ribbons, heads, accounts of territory, and requests to reward his officers. Emperor Wen (Cao Pi) sent a rodent-fur coat, shining armor, and an attendant horse, together with his Authoritative Discourses and poems written on plain material. The Book of Wei records his answer: “The old enemy emerged from his frontier lair, crossed dangers, and advanced deeply. Prolonged campaigning exhausted him within and thwarted his wisdom and strength without. He showed himself at Jitou and detached men toward Xiling, hoping to retrace his advances and shake the lands east of the Yangzi. Before his roots took hold, you broke his branches. Though Liu Bei's body and head remain joined, the men killed or surrendered suffice to terrify his followers. Formerly Wu Han burned Jingmen and then advanced on Yiling, leaving Ziyang [Gongsun Shu] no escape from death. Lai Xi first struck Lüeyang, delighting Wenshu [Liu Xiu] and thwarting Kui Xiao. This campaign resembles those. Exert your strategy and ensure complete victory.”

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Sun Quan professed service to Wei without inward sincerity. Wei wished to send Palace Attendant Xin Pi and Master of Writing Huan Jie to renew the oath and demand a hostage son, but Sun Quan declined. In autumn, in the ninth month, Wei sent Cao Xiu, Zhang Liao, and Zang Ba to Dongkou; Cao Ren to Ruxu; and Cao Zhen, Xiahou Shang, Zhang He, and Xu Huang against Nan Commandery. Sun Quan sent Lü Fan with five fleets against Cao Xiu, Zhuge Jin, Pan Zhang, and Yang Can to relieve Nan, and Ruxu Commander Zhu Huan against Cao Ren. With Yang and Yue's peoples unsettled and internal troubles continuing, Sun Quan humbly requested permission to reform: “If my offense cannot be pardoned and I cannot remain, I shall return territory and people, asking only refuge in Jiao Province for my remaining years.”

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Emperor Wen (Cao Pi) replied: “Born amid disorder, you originally harbored ambitions to act independently. You humbled yourself to serve the state and received these honors. Since declaring allegiance, your tribute has filled the roads, and the court relied on your success against Liu Bei. To dig up what one has buried was an ancient disgrace—

“Our great obligation is settled. Why would I delight in exhausting armies far along the Yangzi and Han? A king cannot decide court deliberations alone. The Three Excellencies detailed your faults with evidence. Though uncertain, like Zengzi's mother throwing down her shuttle, I hoped the accusations false for the state's good. I first sent an envoy with rewards, then a Master of Writing and Palace Attendant to fulfill the agreement about a hostage son. You offered excuses and refused their approach, arousing suspicion—

CommentaryA Brief History of Wei records the Three Excellencies' memorial: “Overgrown branches split the trunk; an oversized tail cannot be wielded. Rulers must guard against this. Han inherited Qin's ruin and newly settled the realm, yet great kings lacked full submission. Failing to employ Xiao He's and Zhang Liang's plans fully, it faced six kings' successive rebellions and constant campaigns. Emperors Wen (Liu Heng) and Jing (Liu Qi) <rulers of Western Han> then neglected warfare in preserving achievement, indulged Wu and Chu, and reared small serpents into great snakes. Past events instruct the future. “The King of Wu (Sun Quan), a young boy without the smallest merit, inherited his father's and brother's work amid war. Sheltered in youth, he grew into an owl's rebellious nature, betraying Heaven's favor with accumulated guilt. He and Guan Yu watched each other for advantage, and he used humble words when opportunity appeared. The late emperor [Cao Cao] knew his treachery sought employment. Since Yu Jin had suffered a flood disaster and Guan Yu had to be attacked, he entrusted Sun Quan with it. When the late emperor died, Sun Quan did not sincerely grieve but hoped to exploit mourning and weaken the royal house. Through Dong Tao he falsely invoked the late emperor's order and seized Xiangyang before permission arrived, then humbled himself after being driven out. “Though his relay envoys and Yu Jin's return displayed flowing words, within he concealed Kui Xiao's opportunism; outwardly he delayed punishment while looking to the Shu rebels. The court generously pardoned him, granted territory and kingship, accumulated offices, provided ninefold ceremonial honors and a hundred teams of fine horses, and exalted him beyond precedent. A dog or sheep dressed in tiger and leopard patterns, he never thought of giving his life to repay boundless kindness. His memorials reveal reliance on rivers and lakes and hereditary deceit. At best he plans like Zhao Tuo and Ying Bu; at least he repeats Wu Bei's defiant words. He will not remain peaceful or obedient. “Had Chao Cuo not proposed weakening the kings, the Seven States' combined disaster would have grown; had Kuai Tong not urged the attack on Lixia, Tian Heng's deliberation would have produced deeper guilt and trouble. Examining the Rites of Zhou's nine grounds for punishment, we find fifteen crimes revealing Sun Quan's rebellion. The Yellow Emperor (Huangdi) <a legendary ancestral ruler> punished the Nine Li's disorder; Han's founder did not spare Xiang Yu's ten crimes. Sun Quan's offenses are clear, intolerable to mercy or the realm. Remove his offices, have the Grand Herald cancel his rank and territory, and arrest him. If he refuses, advance armies to affirm the state's law and relieve the people of three provinces.” The fifteen articles are omitted for their length. [Translator's note: The invective and allegations belong to Wei's memorial.]

“Former Commandant Hao Zhou's urging you to send your son was in fact the court's joint test. You offered excuses, citing Kui Xiao's hostage son and failed allegiance, while comparing your own loyalty with Dou Rong's. Ages and hearts differ. Hao Zhou's return and report intensified suspicion; finding no secure basis for trust, I yielded to the ministers. Reading your present memorial's deep sincerity moves me sorrowfully. Today I order the armies to dig deep trenches and raise high walls, without rash advance. If you truly demonstrate loyalty and settle doubts, let Sun Deng arrive at court in the morning, and the armies will be recalled that evening. This promise is as certain as the great river!”

CommentaryA Brief History of Wei says: Hao Zhou, courtesy name Kongyi, was from Shangdang. During Jian'an he served as Magistrate of Xiao and rose to Inspector of Xu Province. Later supervising Yu Jin's army, he was captured by Guan Yu. Sun Quan obtained him after attacking Guan Yu and treated him generously. When Emperor Wen (Cao Pi) became king, Sun Quan sent Hao Zhou with this letter to the King of Wei (Cao Pi): “After capturing General Yu (Yu Jin), I informed the former King (Cao Cao) that I would return him, sincerity prompting me before requests. The former King (Cao Cao) did not fully attend to it and suspected another design, leaving my humble feelings uncertain. He then departed from the state, and Your Highness inherited it. Communication only began, and public and private difficulties prevented fulfilling the original oath. Liang Yu conveyed your intentions fully; I know Your Highness expects sincerity. I dare harbor no other thought. Extend understanding and preserve my purpose. I send Hao Zhou and Dongli Gun to explain everything.” Another letter said: “My nature is shallow, without civil or military distinction. Inheriting my father's and brother's forces, I received the former King (Cao Cao)'s encouragement and the state's kindness in governing the east. Thoughtless in intervening affairs, fearing power while forgetting virtue, I incurred grave guilt. His benevolence spared my distant land, forgave past offenses, and opened trust. Though I risked my life against the enemy and captured Guan Yu's head, the service was slight, repaying not a fraction. Before the work ended, he died. Your Highness succeeded, spreading power and benevolence, while I feared my intentions misunderstood. Liang Yu showed that you would not estrange me but preserve our former connection. I rejoiced, my mind opened and eyes brightened. My family has received generations of favor. I shall hold one heart forever; understand my earnestness and continue your protection.” Another said: “The former King (Cao Cao), satisfied with my sincerity, meant to withdraw and removed Hefei's defenses to establish trust between north and south, letting me advance without concern behind. Recently commanders Zhou Tai and Quan Cong reported that on the sixth of the past month seven hundred horse and foot reached Hengjiang, followed by commander Ma He with four hundred at Juchao. Hearing of troops crossing the river, Quan Cong's men inspected and were attacked; fighting caused heavy casualties. Sudden news alarmed me. Being far away, I knew nothing beforehand and had issued no prior restrictions; I apologize. I also hear General Zhang Who Conquers the East [Zhang Liao] and General Zhu Who Crosses the Sea [朱橫海; personal name not specified here] have returned to Hefei. The former King (Cao Cao)'s agreement is recent, and I know of no new offense. Why bring armies so far? Our enterprise is unfinished, and I am about to attack the rebel Liu Bei for the state; this news disrupts my plans. Distant men rely on clear trust. Complete our former understanding and make matters open, allowing my oath and original plan to be fulfilled. Hao Zhou and the others will convey my wishes.” Dongli Gun had been Yu Jin's Major, captured and returned with Hao Zhou. Both were received by edict. Hao Zhou thought Sun Quan would certainly submit; Dongli Gun doubted it. The Emperor (Cao Pi) liked Hao Zhou's answer and thought it informed. That winter the King of Wei (Cao Pi) received Han's abdication and sent investiture as King of Wu (Sun Quan), with Hao Zhou accompanying the envoy. After delivering the command, Hao Zhou privately told Sun Quan: “His Majesty doubts you will send your son. I guarantee it with my whole household of a hundred people.” Addressing him by courtesy name, Sun Quan said: “Hao Kongyi [Hao Zhou], you pledge your hundred family members for me. What can I say?” Tears soaked his robes. At parting, he swore by Heaven. Yet afterward he sent excuses rather than his son, and the Emperor (Cao Pi) detained his envoy. In the eighth month, Sun Quan apologized and wrote Hao Zhou: “Since the roads opened, I have not forgotten our friendship. Newly receiving the state's command, I learned of your welfare, but your leave north of the Yellow River prevented my inquiries reaching you. How could longing cease? My darkness obscured trust, bringing guilt and rejection. Fortunately the state pardoned me again. I rejoice that we may fulfill our original plan. Does the tradition not say that, though one cannot begin well, one may end well?” Another letter said: “When you came seeking my son's service at court, I gladly accepted wholeheartedly. Only Sun Deng's youth made me request a year or two. My sincere heart was not trusted, and punishment brought shame and fear. Now the state's renewed guidance overlooks past faults and seeks future service. I am glad to complete the oath. My earlier memorial explained sending him; I suppose you learned of it on your return.” Another said: “My son is to enter service but has no wife. You formerly suggested connecting him with the imperial clan or Xiahou family. Though I alienated myself meanwhile, I kept it in mind. Please continue your concern and arrange matters, allowing him lasting security through an exalted alliance. Your favor would be immeasurable. I wish Sun Changxu [Sun Shao] to accompany him and conduct the betrothal. Success rests with you.” Another said: “My son is young and insufficiently instructed. Thinking of parting grieves me; can affection between father and son end? I also wish Zhang Zibu [Zhang Zhao] to follow and protect him. I conceal nothing of my wishes. Fearing my sincerity may not be clear, I explain everything for you to understand.” An edict then said: “Sun Quan told Hao Zhou he dared not estrange himself and wished to submit as an external minister. His repeated words prostrate themselves completely. This little rat knows he cannot hold so much territory. He now promises to send his son in the twelfth month, accompanied by Sun Changxu [Sun Shao] and Zhang Zibu [Zhang Zhao], his trusted limbs and heart. Seeking a wife in the capital clearly proves no divided intention.” Trusting the sweet words, the Emperor (Cao Pi) believed Hao Zhou had understood him. Yet Sun Quan was merely deceptive and never intended to send his son. When his guilt was exposed, Hao Zhou too lost favor and was never employed again.

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Sun Quan changed the era and defended the river. In winter, in the eleventh month, strong winds drowned several thousand of Lü Fan's troops; the rest returned south of the Yangzi. Cao Xiu sent Zang Ba with five hundred light boats and ten thousand volunteers on a surprise attack at Xuling, burning siege engines and killing or taking several thousand. Generals Quan Cong and Xu Sheng pursued, beheaded Wei's general Yin Lu, and killed or captured several hundred. In the twelfth month, Sun Quan sent Senior Grand Master Zheng Quan to Liu Bei at Baidi, reopening relations.

CommentaryThe Account of the Lands Beyond the Yangzi says: Sun Quan said: “Xuande [Liu Bei] recently wrote acknowledging his fault and requesting renewed friendship. I formerly called the western state Shu because the Han emperor (Liu Xie) still existed. Now Han is abolished, he may be called King of Hanzhong (Liu Bei).” The Book of Wu says: Zheng Quan, courtesy name Wenyuan, was from Chen Commandery, learned and unusually ambitious but fond of wine. In retirement he would wish for a boat holding five hundred hu of good wine, seasonal delicacies at both ends, and endless drinking, eating when tired, with each dou or sheng consumed replaced. Sun Quan made him Gentleman of the Household. Asked why he remonstrated publicly without fearing the dragon's scales, he answered: “An enlightened ruler has frank ministers. Trusting your great favor and open court, I fear no scales.” At a banquet, Sun Quan threatened him with arrest. As he repeatedly looked back while leaving, Sun Quan recalled him: “You claimed not to fear. Why look back?” “Trusting your protection, I knew I would not die, but at the gate your spiritual authority made me turn.” In Shu, Liu Bei asked whether Sun Quan's unanswered letter meant disapproval of his title. Zheng Quan replied: “Cao Cao and his son oppressed Han and finally seized its throne. As imperial kin, you should have defended it and led the realm in arms, rather than assume a title. Your action did not accord with general opinion; hence my lord did not answer.” Liu Bei was deeply ashamed. Near death, Zheng Quan told his associates: “Bury me beside a potter's workshop. After a hundred years I may become clay and be made into a wine vessel. That would fulfill my heart.”

Relations with Emperor Wen of Wei (Cao Pi) nevertheless continued until two years later. That year, Yiling was renamed Xiling.

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In spring of the second year, in the first month, Cao Zhen detached troops to the central island at Jiangling. That month, fortifications were built at Jiangxia Mountain. The quarter-remainder calendar was replaced by the Qianxiang Calendar.

In the third month, Cao Ren sent Chang Diao and the others with five thousand men in oil-treated boats across to Ruxu's central island at dawn. His son Cao Tai urgently attacked Zhu Huan, who resisted and sent Yan Gui and the others to defeat Chang Diao. That month all Wei's armies withdrew. In summer, in the fourth month, the ministers urged the imperial title, but Sun Quan refused.

Liu Bei died at Baidi.

CommentaryThe Book of Wu says: Sun Quan sent Commandant Who Establishes Trust Feng Xi to Shu to mourn Liu Bei. Feng Xi, courtesy name Zirou, was from Yingchuan and descended from Feng Yi. While Sun Quan was General of Chariots and Cavalry, Feng Xi served in the Eastern Office. After a Shu mission he became Grand Master of the Center. Later, in Wei, Emperor Wen (Cao Pi) asked: “If the King of Wu (Sun Quan) wishes friendship, he should prepare troops on the river and threaten Ba and Shu. Renewing relations there must conceal something.” Feng Xi replied: “The western mission merely exchanged inquiries and observed opportunities, not a plot.” Asked about Wu's recent disasters and drought, he said: “The King of Wu (Sun Quan) is discerning and employs men well. He consults on taxes and service, cares for guests, cherishes scholars, rewards even enemies for merit, and punishes only the guilty. Ministers repay him with loyalty. A million armored men, mountainlike stores, and fertile rice fields make a strong, wealthy, impregnable state. Its relative strength cannot be dismissed.” Displeased, the Emperor (Cao Pi) had fellow townsman Chen Qun entice him with great rewards, unsuccessfully. He was sent to Mobei for harsh treatment, then recalled. Fearing coercion would endanger his life and disgrace his mission, he stabbed himself, but his driver prevented death. Sun Quan wept: “How does this differ from Su Wu?” Feng Xi eventually died in Wei.

In the fifth month, Qu'a reported sweet dew. Earlier, Xikou's defending commander Jin Zong killed General Wang Zhi and defected with his troops to Wei. Appointed Administrator of Qichun, he repeatedly raided the border. In the sixth month, Sun Quan sent He Qi, Mi Fang, Liu Shao, and the others against Qichun, capturing Jin Zong alive. In winter, in the eleventh month, Shu's General of the Gentlemen of the Household Deng Zhi came as envoy.

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In summer of the third year, General of the Gentlemen of the Household Who Assists Righteousness Zhang Wen went to Shu. In autumn, in the eighth month, capital offenses were pardoned. In the ninth month, Emperor Wen of Wei (Cao Pi) reached Guangling, surveyed the great river, and said, “There are capable men there; it cannot yet be taken,” then returned.

CommentaryGan Bao's Chronicle of Jin says: Wu's people were alarmed by his arrival. They built false walls along the river from Shitou to Jiangcheng, using wooden frames covered with reed mats and painted decoration, completing them overnight. Viewed from the western bank, they intimidated Wei into withdrawal. Sun Quan asked Zhao Da to calculate. Zhao Da said: “Cao Pi has gone. Yet Wu will decline in the gengzi year.” “How far away?” Counting on his fingers, he answered, “Fifty-eight years.” Sun Quan said: “Today's concerns leave no time for the distant future. That is for descendants.” The Record of Wu says: Shu's ruler [Liu Shan] again sent Deng Zhi to renew the alliance. Sun Quan explained: “Mountain rebellions have drawn troops from river defenses. I feared Cao Pi exploiting the gap, yet he seeks peace. Advisers thought his internal difficulties made acceptance advantageous. I fear the western state may misunderstand my sincerity. My distant borders have countless openings, and river and sea all require defense. Cao Pi watches for advantage; only its absence restrains him. How could he forget this and turn elsewhere?”

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In summer of the fourth year, in the fifth month, Chancellor Sun Shao died.

CommentaryThe Record of Wu says: Sun Shao, courtesy name Changxu, was from Beihai and stood eight chi tall. As Kong Rong's Officer of Merit, he was called “a talent for the court.” He followed Liu Yao east of the Yangzi. After Sun Quan took command, he repeatedly advised tribute and diplomacy, which Sun Quan accepted. He became Administrator of Lujiang, then Chief Clerk to the General of Chariots and Cavalry. Early in Huangwu he became Chancellor, General of Far-reaching Authority, and Marquis of Yangxian. Accused by Zhang Wen and Ji Yan, he resigned and requested punishment; Sun Quan pardoned and restored him. He died aged sixty-three. The Forest of Records says: “He was Wu's founding Chancellor, yet has no biography—a constant puzzle to me. I asked the learned Liu Shengshu, who said his rank clearly merited one. Xiang Jun and Ding Fu [the source replaces 吳孚 with 丁孚] had already kept records, but Sun Shao was at odds with Zhang Huishu [Zhang Wen]. Later, the Wei [韋] family's historian belonged to Zhang Wen's party, so he was omitted.”

In the sixth month, Grand Minister of Ceremonies Gu Yong became Chancellor.

CommentaryThe Book of Wu says: Director of the Masters of Writing Chen Hua became Grand Minister of Ceremonies. Chen Hua, courtesy name Yuanyao, was from Runan, widely learned, resolute, seven chi nine cun tall, and dignified. As Prefect of the Palace Gentlemen he went to Wei. While drinking, Emperor Wen (Cao Pi) teased: “With Wu and Wei confronting one another, who will unite the realm?” Chen Hua replied: “The Changes says, ‘The Lord emerges in Zhen.’ Earlier worthies knew the Mandate: purple canopies and yellow banners point to the southeast.” “King Wen (Ji Chang) ruled the realm as Earl of the West. Why must it be east?” “Zhou's beginning lay with Taibo in the east; therefore King Wen (Ji Chang) could rise in the west.” The Emperor (Cao Pi) laughed, unable to answer, admired his words, and sent him home generously. Sun Quan appointed him Administrator of Jianwei with a staff, then Grand Minister of Ceremonies and concurrent Director of the Masters of Writing. Upright at court, he forbade his children private estates and business, relying on official stipends rather than competing with the people. After his wife died, ancient examples led him not to remarry. Sun Quan respected this but, since he was still vigorous, ordered an imperial-clan marriage. Chen Hua firmly declined through illness, and Sun Quan respected his wish. Past seventy, he retired to Zhang'an and died at home. His eldest son Chen Chi, courtesy name Gongxi, was principled and skilled in calculation. General of the Guards Quan Cong recommended him as suitable for appointment as General-in-Chief, but he died on the way to his summons.

Wankou reported trees with joined branches. In winter, in the twelfth month, Poyang rebel Peng Qi proclaimed himself general, taking counties with several tens of thousands. Earthquakes recurred that year.

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In spring of the fifth year, Sun Quan ordered: “Long mobilization has driven people from farming and prevented parents, children, husbands, and wives from caring for one another. I deeply pity them. The northern enemy has withdrawn and external affairs are quiet. Instruct the provinces to grant relief.” Lu Xun memorialized that grain was scarce and commanders should enlarge cultivation. Sun Quan answered: “Excellent. My sons and I personally receive fields, with eight oxen forming four pairs for plowing [車中八牛; wording uncertain]. Though short of ancient standards, we wish to share the labor.” In autumn, in the seventh month, hearing of Emperor Wen (Cao Pi)'s death, Sun Quan attacked Jiangxia and besieged Shiyang without success. Cangwu reported a phoenix. Ten difficult counties from three commanderies formed Dong'an—

—with Quan Cong as administrator to suppress the Shanyue. In winter, in the tenth month, Lu Xun recommended benevolence, lighter punishments, taxes, and levies, adding: “Loyal advice cannot be fully expressed, while petty men seeking favor repeatedly speak of profit.” Sun Quan replied:

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“Laws restrain evil and warn before offenses arise. How can there be no punishment to awe petty men? Commands precede punishment because we do not wish offenses committed. If you find them excessive, what benefit do I gain from severity? I act only from necessity. Having heard you, I shall consult further and seek what is right. Close ministers' remonstrances and relatives' corrections uphold the ruler and show loyalty. The Documents says, ‘When I err, assist me; do not agree to my face.’ How could I dislike loyal advice? To say you dare not speak fully—how is that frank loyalty? If a lesser minister offers usable words, why reject them because of the person? Even in my darkness I recognize flattering self-interest. “As for levies, the realm is unsettled and affairs require many hands. If we merely defended the east and practiced generous government, our troops would suffice; why need more? But remaining passively defensive would be mean-spirited. Without advance levies, men might not be available when needed. Your bond with me is exceptional: honor and sorrow are shared. Your refusal to seek safety by following others is precisely what I desire from you.”

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He ordered all regulations copied and sent Gentleman of the Household Chu Feng to Lu Xun and Zhuge Jin, directing them to revise whatever troubled them. That year, Guang Province was separated from Jiao Province, then soon restored to the former arrangement.

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In spring of the sixth year, in the first month, the generals captured Peng Qi. In the intercalary month, Han Dang's son Han Zong surrendered to Wei with his followers.

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In the third month of the seventh year, Sun Quan enfeoffed his son Sun Lü as Marquis of Jianchang and abolished Dong'an Commandery. In summer, in the fifth month, Administrator of Poyang Zhou Fang feigned rebellion to lure Cao Xiu. In autumn, in the eighth month, Sun Quan reached Wankou and ordered Lu Xun to command a decisive victory at Shiting. Grand Marshal Lü Fan died. Hepu was renamed Zhuguan Commandery.

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In spring of Huanglong 1, all ministers urged Sun Quan to assume the imperial title. In summer, in the fourth month, Xiakou and Wuchang reported a yellow dragon and phoenix. On bingshen, he ascended the imperial throne in the southern suburb.

CommentaryThe Record of Wu records his announcement to Heaven: “Your servant, Emperor Sun Quan, respectfully uses a black bull to announce to August Sovereign Heaven: Han ruled for twenty-four generations and four hundred thirty-four years. Its phase and allotted cycle are exhausted; the realm's bonds have broken. The wicked Cao Pi seized the sacred vessel, and his son Cao Rui continues the evil, falsely naming himself and disordering institutions. Born in the southeast at the appointed time, I received Heaven's direction and arms to pacify the age, punishing only for the people. Ministers, generals, provinces, commanderies, and officials agree that Heaven has left Han, its heavenly sacrifices ended, the imperial place empty, and suburban worship without a master. Repeated auspicious signs show the succession rests in me. Fearing Heaven's Mandate, I dare not refuse. On this chosen day, I ascend the altar with burnt offerings and take the imperial throne. May divine powers receive the sacrifice, assist Wu, and preserve Heaven's blessings forever!”

That day, a general amnesty was proclaimed and the era changed. His father, General Who Defeats the Enemy Sun Jian, was posthumously honored as Emperor Wulie (Sun Jian) <Martial and Ardent Emperor>; his mother Lady Wu as Empress Wulie (Lady Wu); his elder brother, General Who Punishes Rebels Sun Ce, as King Huan of Changsha (Sun Ce) <a posthumous royal designation>. Royal Heir Sun Deng became imperial crown prince. Officers received promotions and rewards.

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Earlier, during Xingping, children in Wu sang: “A golden carriage with patterned ornaments; open Chang Gate, and a Son of Heaven emerges.”

In the fifth month, Colonels Zhang Gang and Guan Du went to Liaodong. In the sixth month, Shu's Minister of the Guards Chen Zhen congratulated the accession. Sun Quan arranged a three-way territorial division: Yu, Qing, Xu, and You would belong to Wu; Yan, Ji, Bing, and Liang to Shu. The metropolitan province would be divided at Hangu Pass. They made this covenant:

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“Heaven sent disorder, and imperial government lost order. Rebellious ministers seized power, beginning with Dong Zhuo and ending with Cao Cao, whose extreme evil overturned the four seas. The nine regions were divided, the realm lacked unity, and people and spirits suffered without refuge. Cao Pi continued that tyrant's crimes and stole Heaven's place. Petty Cao Rui follows his path, relying on armies and stolen territory, still unpunished. Formerly Gaoxin [Emperor Ku, a legendary ruler] campaigned against Gonggong's disorder, and Shun attacked the Sanmiao's violations. Who but Shu-Han and Eastern Wu can now destroy Cao's house and seize its supporters? “Punishing wickedness requires proclaiming its guilt. First divide and take its land, so officials and people know where allegiance lies. The Spring and Autumn Annals records Jin's lord attacking Wei and first assigning its fields to Song. This is the principle. Great enterprises begin with oaths: the Rites of Zhou has an Officer of Covenants, and the Documents records proclamations and vows. Though Han and Wu trust each other inwardly, territorial division requires agreement. Zhuge Liang's virtue and authority reach far. Supporting his state and commanding armies abroad, his sincerity moves Heaven, Earth, yin, and yang. We renew the covenant and spread its terms so eastern and western subjects all know them. “Therefore we establish an altar, kill the victim, announce to the spirits, taste the blood again, and add a written covenant, depositing a duplicate in the Tianfu [the repository for the covenant duplicate]. Heaven hears below; divine majesty assists. Guardians of caution and covenants and all divine powers attend. From today, Han and Wu unite in effort against the Wei rebels, rescue one another in danger, share calamity and celebration, and hold common love and hatred without division. Wu shall attack any who harm Han; Han shall attack any who harm Wu. Each shall hold its allotted land without invasion. Transmit this to descendants, ending as we began. Every term follows the document. Faithful words need no ornament: friendship rests on substance. Whoever breaks this covenant, begins disaster and disorder, acts disloyally, or disregards Heaven's command shall be judged by the Lord on High and destroyed by the powers of mountains and rivers. May his army fall and his state lose succession. Great spirits, examine this clearly!”

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In autumn, in the ninth month, Sun Quan moved his capital to Jianye, using the existing offices without changing the buildings. Supreme General Lu Xun was summoned to assist Crown Prince Sun Deng and administer affairs left at Wuchang.

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In the spring, in the first month of the second year, Wei built the New City at Hefei. An edict established instructors and a libationer to teach the princes. Generals Wei Wen and Zhuge Zhi were sent with ten thousand armored soldiers across the sea to seek Yizhou and Danzhou. Danzhou lay out at sea. According to a tradition handed down by elders, the First Emperor of Qin (Ying Zheng) <the founding emperor of the Qin dynasty> had sent the practitioner Xu Fu with several thousand boys and girls to sea to seek the divine mountain Penglai and the medicine of immortality; they settled on this island and never returned. Their descendants had grown to several tens of thousands of households. People from there sometimes came to Kuaiji to trade cloth. People sailing from the eastern counties of Kuaiji had also been driven there by storms. It was so distant that the expedition ultimately could not reach it. They returned only with several thousand people from Yizhou.

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In the spring, in the second month of the third year, Grand Minister of Ceremonies Pan Jun was sent with fifty thousand men against the non-Han peoples of Wuling. Wei Wen and Zhuge Zhi were both imprisoned and executed for disobeying the edict and achieving nothing. In summer, wild silkworms spun cocoons as large as eggs. Wild rice grew spontaneously at Youquan, which was renamed Hexing County. General of the Household Sun Bu feigned surrender to lure the Wei general Wang Ling, who brought an army to receive him. In winter, in the tenth month, Sun Quan concealed a large force at Fuling to await him, but Wang Ling detected the trap and withdrew. Nanshiping in Kuaiji reported auspicious grain. On dingmao in the twelfth month, a general amnesty was proclaimed, and the following year was designated the first year of a new era.

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In the spring, in the first month of the first year of Jiahe, Marquis of Jianchang (Sun Lü) died. In the third month, General Zhou He and Colonel Pei Qian were sent by sea to Liaodong. In autumn, in the ninth month, the Wei general Tian Yu intercepted them and killed Zhou He at Chengshan. In winter, in the tenth month, Wei's Administrator of Liaodong, Gongsun Yuan, sent Colonel Su Shu and Prefect of Palace Attendants Sun Zong to declare allegiance to Sun Quan, presenting sable pelts and horses. Sun Quan was delighted and increased Gongsun Yuan's rank and honors.

CommentaryThe Jiangbiao zhuan says: That winter, the ministers, observing that Sun Quan had not yet performed the suburban sacrifice to Heaven, submitted this proposal: “Recently auspicious signs have repeatedly appeared, and distant countries have admired righteousness. Heaven's intentions and human affairs have successively converged. You should conduct the suburban sacrifice to comply with Heaven's will.” Sun Quan said, “The suburban sacrifice should be held at the center of the realm. This is not that place; where could it be performed?” They submitted again: “All beneath Heaven is the king's territory; a king takes the whole world as his home. Formerly King Wen of Zhou (Ji Chang) and King Wu of Zhou (Ji Fa) sacrificed at Feng and Hao. The location need not be the center of the realm.” Sun Quan said, “King Wu (Ji Fa) attacked King Zhou of Shang (Di Xin), ascended the throne at Haojing, and sacrificed there. King Wen (Ji Chang) was not yet Son of Heaven. What classic records that he established the suburban sacrifice at Feng?” They replied in writing: “In the Treatise on the Suburban Sacrifices in the Han shu, Kuang Heng proposed moving the sacrifices from Ganquan and Hedong to Chang'an, saying that King Wen (Ji Chang) sacrificed at Feng.” Sun Quan said, “King Wen (Ji Chang) was humble and yielding and occupied the position of a regional lord. Plainly he did not perform this sacrifice. There is no explicit statement in the classics or their commentaries. Kuang Heng's conjecture as a commonplace scholar is not the correct meaning of the canonical texts and cannot be followed.” The Zhi lin says: When the King of Wu (Sun Quan) rebutted the proposal for the suburban sacrifice and disparaged Kuang Heng as a commonplace scholar, all who witnessed it admired his comprehensive grasp of principles and practical circumstances. Yet tested against the classics, his argument proves untenable. The Mao commentary says: “Yao observed Heaven's favor in Tai and the birth of Hou Ji; he therefore enfeoffed him at Tai and commanded him to serve Heaven.” Thus the Odes say: “Hou Ji began the sacrifices; may we incur neither fault nor regret, continuing down to the present.” This means that from Hou Ji onward his successors could sacrifice to Heaven, just as the people of Lu performed the suburban sacrifice. Accordingly, the ode Yu pu describes firewood heaped for the burnt offering. King Wen (Ji Chang)'s sacrifice at Feng is explicitly attested in the classic. How could Kuang Heng be a commonplace scholar and deserve this unfair judgment? Although King Wen (Ji Chang) had not become Son of Heaven, he possessed two-thirds of the realm, attacked Chong, subdued Li, and caused Zu Yi to rush to report the danger. Heaven had abandoned Yin and turned its gaze westward. Taibo yielded three times, enabling his house to possess the realm. What doubt can there be about the legitimacy of King Wen (Ji Chang)'s kingship? Kuang Heng's proposal nevertheless had shortcomings. Shizong (Liu Che) <the temple name of Emperor Wu of Han> established the shrines at Ganquan and Fenyin on the advice of practitioners, not on the authority of the classics. They said these were the places where the Yellow Emperor (Huangdi) sacrificed to Heaven and Earth, so Emperor Xiaowu (Liu Che) established the two altars there. Han's capital was Chang'an, and Ganquan lay north of it: the site was chosen to correspond to the qian direction. Kuang Heng's statement that “Emperor Wu (Liu Che) resided at Ganquan and sacrificed in the southern palace” was already mistaken. The sacrifice at Fenyin was held on a rise beside the water called a place within the marsh; Kuang Heng called it “the eastern position of lesser yang,” missing its original intention. This was an affair of Wu, and there is no fault in including it in the biography. I regret only the absence of a corrective explanation and therefore supply one. The character shui [脽] is pronounced like shui [誰], as indicated in the Han shu's phonetic commentary.

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In the spring, in the first month of the second year, an edict declared: “Despite my lack of virtue, I have received the great mandate. Anxious day and night, I have no leisure to rest. I seek to pacify the age's troubles and rescue the common people, answering the spirits above and comforting the people's hopes below. Therefore I earnestly seek outstanding men with whom to unite our strength and settle the realm. Whoever shares this purpose shall grow old together with me. The King of Yan (Gongsun Yuan), Bearer of the Credentials, Supervisor of You Province, concurrent Governor of Qing Province, and Administrator of Liaodong, has long been coerced by the enemy and isolated in a distant region. Although his heart was with our state, he had no means of reaching us. Now, in accordance with Heaven's mandate, he has sent two envoys from afar, making his sincerity manifest in earnest memorials. What joy could surpass my receipt of them? Tang of Shang (Zi Lü)'s encounter with Yi Yin, Zhou's acquisition of Lü Wang, and Shizu (Liu Xiu)'s gaining the region west of the Yellow River before his realm was settled could scarcely surpass this! The unification of all beneath Heaven is thereby assured. Does the Documents not say, ‘When the One Man enjoys blessing, the myriad people depend upon it’? Proclaim a general amnesty throughout the realm, to begin anew together. Notify the provinces and commanderies so all may know, and send a special announcement to the Kingdom of Yan proclaiming this gracious edict. Let all the land beneath Heaven hear this joyous news.” In the third month, Su Shu and Sun Zong were sent back. Grand Minister of Ceremonies Zhang Mi, Commandant of the Capital Xu Yan, General He Da, and others were sent by sea with ten thousand soldiers, gold, treasures, precious goods, and the complete ceremonial equipment of the Nine Bestowments to invest Gongsun Yuan.

CommentaryThe Jiangbiao zhuan records Sun Quan's edict: “To the former Wei Bearer of the Credentials, General of Chariots and Cavalry, Administrator of Liaodong, and Marquis of Pingle (Gongsun Yuan): Heaven and Earth have lost their order, and the imperial standard has not been established. Great evildoers harm the people; the realm is torn apart and living beings are destroyed. Even the description ‘Of Zhou's remaining people, not one was left’ does not exceed the disorder of today. Having received the appointed succession and become ruler of the myriad states, I tremble day and night, intent on ending these troubles, as though crossing deep water without knowing where to reach safety. Therefore I grasp the standard and battle-axe, cutting down the violent, moving from east to west without rest. Wherever my strength reaches, the people escape disaster. Though remnants of the enemy have not yet received their deserved punishment, they are like bound prisoners or withered trees, awaiting their time to perish. You, General, possess exceptional natural gifts, combining civil and military ability. Observing circumstances and changes, you have judged clearly whom to leave and whom to join. Surmounting dangers, you have openly shown your loyal heart and taken the lead in a great policy for the realm. Your outstanding merits rival those of the ancients. Even Dou Rong, who abandoned Longyou and ultimately secured Hexi to establish Emperor Guangwu (Liu Xiu), could scarcely surpass your glorious reputation and substantial achievements. I honor your noble aspirations and rejoice in them. Since antiquity, sage emperors and enlightened kings have established their civilizing rule and succession, rewarding virtue with rank and service with emoluments. Greater service receives richer emoluments; greater virtue receives higher honors. Thus the Duke of Zhou (Ji Dan) labored in support of the throne and the Grand Preceptor (Lü Wang) displayed his martial achievements; both received territories and full ceremonial honors. You have devised a plan for ten thousand generations and a strategy unmatched in the age, breaking with the usurping rebels and following the reverent will of Heaven and humanity. Your aid in completing this great undertaking is without equal. What need is there even to mention the precedents of Qi and Lu? Do the Odes not say, ‘No word goes unanswered; no virtue goes unrewarded’? I now enfeoff you as King of Yan (Gongsun Yuan), with seventeen commanderies and seventy counties in You and Qing provinces. Zhang Mi, Bearer of the Credentials and Acting Grand Minister of Ceremonies, will confer on you the seal and ribbon, investiture document, gold tiger tallies numbered one through five, and bamboo mission tallies numbered one through ten. I grant you black earth wrapped in white cogongrass; consult your tortoise shell and establish your great altar of the soil. With military affairs still in hand, you will command the troops, using the curved canopy and standards of a General-in-Chief, and remain Supervisor of You Province, Governor of Qing Province, and Administrator of Liaodong as before. I now add the Nine Bestowments. Reverently hear the following commands. Because your house has maintained succession for three generations, protected a region, pacified the four commanderies, and extended instruction to peoples of different customs, so that Han and non-Han alike pursue their livelihoods without disloyalty, I grant you a great state carriage, a war carriage, and two teams of four black stallions. Because you encourage agriculture, bringing the farmers' work to fruition, filling the granaries, and enriching officials and people alike, I grant you the ceremonial dragon robe and crown, together with red slippers. Because you correct and transform through virtue, treat subordinates with ritual respect, uphold righteousness and humility, and bring harmony within and without, I grant you music with instruments suspended on three sides. Because you disseminate fine customs and cherish distant border peoples, who turn toward you and follow like shadows, I grant you a residence with vermilion doors. Because you employ your talents and judgment, appoint worthy officials, promote the upright above the crooked, and advance every good man, I grant you one hundred Tiger Guards. Because your cavalry and armies are well ordered, your might shakes distant regions, and you enforce Heaven's punishments upon the guilty, I grant you one executioner's axe and one ceremonial battle-axe. Because you secure civil harmony within and establish military authority abroad, capturing rebels and overcoming aggression and danger, I grant you one red bow with one hundred red arrows, and ten black bows with one thousand black arrows. Because your loyal diligence has proved effective, your conduct is gentle and respectful, and your clear, trustworthy sincerity moves my heart, I grant you a vessel of black-millet sacrificial wine together with a jade-handled libation ladle. Be reverent! Respect these instructions, assist Heaven's work with solemn clarity, support our state, and preserve your blessings forever.”

All the senior ministers at court, from Chancellor Gu Yong downward, remonstrated. They considered Gongsun Yuan untrustworthy and these favors excessive: only a few hundred officers and soldiers should escort Su Shu and Sun Zong home. Sun Quan ultimately refused to listen.

As expected, Gongsun Yuan executed Zhang Mi and the others, sent their heads to Wei, and confiscated the soldiers and supplies. Sun Quan was furious and wanted to campaign against Gongsun Yuan himself.

Only after Supervisor of the Masters of Writing Xue Zong and others earnestly remonstrated did he desist. That year Sun Quan advanced toward Hefei's New City and sent General Quan Qiong [全瓊, the name written here] against Lu'an. Both expeditions failed and returned.

CommentaryThe Wu shu says: When Zhang Mi, Xu Yan, and the others first reached Xiangping, their subordinate officials and attendants numbered about four hundred. Gongsun Yuan intended to kill Zhang Mi and Xu Yan. He first dispersed their followers among Liaodong's counties, assigning the palace envoys Qin Dan, Zhang Qun, Du De, Huang Jiang, and sixty officers and soldiers to Xuantu Commandery. Xuantu lay two hundred li northeast of Liaodong. Its administrator, Wang Zan, governed two hundred households, with perhaps three or four hundred people counting the others there. Qin Dan and his companions lodged in local homes and depended upon their hosts for food. After about forty days, Qin Dan and Huang Jiang discussed their situation: “We have borne our state's commission this far only to suffer humiliation, abandoned here. How is this different from death? This commandery appears very weak. If we unite, burn the city, and kill its senior officials, we can avenge our state's disgrace and then accept death without regret. How is that not better than clinging to life as captives forever?” Huang Jiang and the others agreed. They secretly arranged to act on the night of the nineteenth day of the eighth month. At midday that day, however, Zhang Song, a man among their group, informed against them. Wang Zan assembled his men and closed the gates. Qin Dan, Zhang Qun, Du De, and Huang Jiang all escaped over the wall. Zhang Qun had an ulcer on his knee and could not keep up; Du De continually supported him as they struggled through the mountain valleys. After six or seven hundred li, the wound grew worse and he could go no farther. He lay in the grass while they stayed beside him and wept. Zhang Qun said, “My wound has grown terribly severe; death may come any day. You should hurry onward and hope to reach somewhere safe. What good would it do for us all to remain here and die in this deserted valley?” Du De said, “We have wandered ten thousand li together, sharing life and death. I cannot bear to abandon you.” They therefore urged Qin Dan and Huang Jiang onward. Du De alone stayed with Zhang Qun, gathering vegetables and fruit to feed him. Several days after leaving, Qin Dan and Huang Jiang reached Goguryeo and delivered the imperial edict to its King (Gong), and his registrar. The edict mentioned gifts that Liaodong had attacked them and seized. Gong and his officials were delighted, accepted the edict, and sent men back with Qin Dan to fetch Zhang Qun and Du De. That year Gong sent twenty-five black-robed attendants to escort them home, presenting a memorial acknowledging himself Sun Quan's subject, a thousand sable pelts, and ten sets of brown-eared pheasant skins. When Qin Dan and his companions met Sun Quan, grief and joy overwhelmed them. Sun Quan honored their loyalty and appointed them all colonels. A year later, the envoy Xie Hong and Secretariat official Chen Xun were sent to appoint Gong as Chanyu (Gong) <a title used for rulers beyond the imperial frontier> and present clothing, valuables, and jewels. Upon reaching Anpingkou, they first sent Colonel Chen Feng ahead to meet Gong. But Gong had received a suggestion from Wei's Inspector of You Province that he prove his allegiance by dealing with the Wu envoys. Hearing this, Chen Feng turned back. Gong sent his registrars Ze Zi and Dai Gu to Anping to meet Xie Hong. Xie Hong seized more than thirty of their men as hostages. Gong then apologized and offered several hundred horses. Xie Hong sent Ze Zi and Dai Gu to deliver the edict and gifts to Gong. His ships were small, so he returned with only eighty horses.

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In the spring, in the first month of the third year, an edict declared: “Warfare has long continued without respite; the people are exhausted by service, and harvests sometimes fail. Ease their arrears and cease pressing collection.” In summer, in the fifth month, Sun Quan sent Lu Xun, Zhuge Jin, and others to station at Jiangxia and Miankou, and Sun Shao, Zhang Cheng, and others toward Guangling and Huaiyang. He himself led a large army to besiege Hefei's New City. At this time Shu's Chancellor Zhuge Liang advanced to Wugong. Sun Quan thought Emperor Ming of Wei (Cao Rui) could not come out on a distant campaign, but the emperor sent reinforcements to Sima Xuanwang (Sima Yi) <King Xuan, a posthumous royal title> to resist Zhuge Liang and personally led a naval force eastward. Before he reached Shouchun, Sun Quan withdrew; Sun Shao also abandoned his expedition. In autumn, in the eighth month, Zhuge Ke became Administrator of Danyang and was ordered to attack the Shanyue. On the first day of the ninth month, frost damaged the grain. In winter, in the eleventh month, Grand Minister of Ceremonies Pan Jun completed the pacification of Wuling's non-Han peoples and returned to Wuchang. An edict renamed Qu'a as Yunyang and Dantu as Wujin. The Luling insurgents Li Huan, Luo Li, and others rose in rebellion.

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In the summer of the fourth year, Lü Dai was sent against Li Huan and the others. In autumn, in the seventh month, hail fell. Wei sent envoys seeking to exchange horses for pearls, kingfisher feathers, and tortoiseshell. Sun Quan said, “These are all things I have no use for, and we can obtain horses for them. Why should I refuse their trade?”

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In the spring of the fifth year, large coins were cast, each worth five hundred ordinary coins. An edict ordered officials and commoners to deliver copper and receive payment according to its quantity. Penalties were established for illicit minting. In the second month, Wuchang reported sweet dew falling on Libin Hall. General Assisting Wu Zhang Zhao died. General of the Household Wu Can captured Li Huan, and General Tang Zi captured Luo Li and the others. No rain fell from the tenth month until summer. In winter, in the tenth month, a comet appeared in the east. Peng Dan and other insurgents rebelled in Poyang.

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In the spring, in the first month of the sixth year, an edict declared:

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“The three-year mourning period is a universal institution and expresses the utmost human grief. The worthy restrain their sorrow to follow the rites, while the unworthy exert themselves to fulfill them. When the world is well governed and peaceful and neither superiors nor subordinates face pressing affairs, the gentleman does not deprive people of their natural feelings. Thus for three years no public demands are brought to the filial mourner's door. But when affairs are urgent, ritual is reduced to suit circumstances: one wears a hemp cord at the waist while attending to business. Hence the sages' rule: even a prescribed rite cannot be practiced when the time does not permit it. Not returning home upon bereavement is not the ancient norm; it adapts to present needs, allowing duty to limit affection. We therefore previously established regulations requiring senior officials to await their replacements before leaving office. Yet they deliberately violate them. Although they are prosecuted afterward, their duties have already been neglected. At this busy time, when the state faces many troubles, everyone in office should fulfill his obligations, putting public affairs before private concerns. Their failure to obey respectfully is entirely contrary to our intention. Let officials within and outside the capital deliberate impartially again, seek a balanced solution, and draw up detailed regulations.”

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Gu Tan proposed: “If the penalty for leaving to attend a parent's funeral is light, it cannot restrain filial feeling; if heavy, the offense does not inherently deserve death. Even with increasingly severe punishments, few will suppress that feeling. If someone does offend, affection cannot bear to impose the penalty; if it is reduced, the law becomes ineffective. In my humble opinion, senior officials serving far away cannot learn of a death unless informed. While their replacements are being selected, anyone who transmits the news should certainly suffer the death penalty. Then senior officials will bear no guilt for neglecting their posts, and filial sons will incur no grave punishment.” General Hu Zong proposed: “Although mourning rites have established rules, they cannot be practiced when circumstances do not permit. At present warfare gives military and state affairs exceptional urgency. If a senior official suffers bereavement, knows the prohibition, and openly defies it, thinking only of the shame of hearing of a parent's death without returning and not of the crime of violating the law as a subject, this is because the original penalty was too light. Loyalty serves the state; filial duty is fulfilled in the family. Once one enters service as a subject, how can both be fulfilled? Thus a loyal subject cannot always be a filial son. The regulation should explicitly prescribe death. Deliberate offenders should be guilty without pardon. By using execution to prevent further executions, the punishment of one man will ensure that no one follows him.” Chancellor Gu Yong memorialized in favor of the death penalty.

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Later, when Meng Zong, Magistrate of Wu, lost his mother, he left for her funeral. Afterward he placed himself in custody at Wuchang to await punishment. Lu Xun described his customary conduct and pleaded for him. Sun Quan reduced his punishment by one degree but forbade treating this as a precedent; thereafter such departures ceased. In the second month, Lu Xun attacked Peng Dan and the others and defeated them all that year. In winter, in the tenth month, General of the Guards Quan Cong was sent to raid Lu'an but failed to take it. Zhuge Ke completed the pacification of the Shanyue and stationed his troops to the north in Lujiang.

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In the spring of the first year of Chiwu, large coins worth one thousand ordinary coins were cast. In summer, Lü Dai completed his campaign against the Luling insurgents and returned to Lukou. In autumn, in the eighth month, Wuchang reported the appearance of a qilin. The responsible officials memorialized that a qilin was a sign of great peace and that the era name should be changed. An edict declared: “Recently a red crow alighted before the hall; I saw it myself. If the spirits intend an auspicious sign, the new era should be called Chiwu, ‘Red Crow.’” The ministers replied: “Formerly, when King Wu (Ji Fa) attacked King Zhou of Shang (Di Xin), a red crow appeared as an auspicious sign. Ruler and ministers witnessed it, and he subsequently gained the realm. The sages' records describe it in particular detail. A recent event is auspicious, and what Your Majesty personally witnessed is unmistakable.” The era name was therefore changed. Lady Bu died and was posthumously honored as empress. Previously Sun Quan had trusted the investigative official Lü Yi, a harsh and cruel man who enforced the law with extreme severity. Crown Prince Sun Deng repeatedly remonstrated, but Sun Quan refused to listen, and the senior ministers consequently dared say nothing. Later Lü Yi's criminal misconduct was exposed and he was executed. Sun Quan acknowledged his own fault and reproached himself. He sent Secretariat Gentleman Yuan Li to apologize to the senior generals and ask what should be changed in current affairs. After Yuan Li returned, another edict reproached Zhuge Jin, Bu Zhi, Zhu Ran, Lü Dai, and the others:

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“Yuan Li reports on returning that when he met Ziyu (Zhuge Jin), Zishan (Bu Zhi), Yifeng (Zhu Ran), and Dinggong (Lü Dai), they all said that current affairs had priorities, but each declined to offer an immediate opinion on the ground that he did not administer civil affairs. All referred him to Boyan (Lu Xun) and Chengming (Pan Jun). When Boyan (Lu Xun) and Chengming (Pan Jun) saw Yuan Li, they wept with heartfelt distress, speaking in painful terms, even showing anxiety and fear and an inability to feel secure. Hearing this, I felt deeply troubled and questioned myself severely. Why? Only sages can act without error, and only the enlightened can perceive their own faults. How can all a person's actions be right? I must have done something hurtful or resisted others' wishes without realizing it, causing you to feel apprehensive and constrained. Otherwise, how could matters have reached this point? In the fifty years since I raised an army [the duration given here], every levy and service has come from the people. The realm remains unsettled, and hostile remnants survive. I well know the hardship of soldiers and civilians. Yet burdening the people has been unavoidable. I have worked with you from youth into age; [the following phrase 發有二色 is textually uncertain and cannot be confidently translated]. I thought my intentions were sufficiently plain, within and without, and that our distinction between public and private interests enabled us to safeguard one another. I look to you for full and frank remonstrance, and for help in repairing omissions and deficiencies. In former times Duke Wu of Wei (Ji He), though past his prime, diligently sought advisers and repeatedly sighed and reproached himself.”

“Even ordinary friends in cloth robes and leather belts, once joined in friendship, share one another's blemishes without distinction. Although the relationship of ruler and subject exists between us, I believe that even flesh and blood could be no closer. We share honor, good fortune, joy, and sorrow. Loyalty conceals no feelings; wisdom withholds no plan. When affairs involve right and wrong, how can you simply remain at ease? Crossing a river in the same boat, for whom could we exchange one another? Duke Huan of Qi (Jiang Xiaobai) was merely hegemon among the regional lords. Whenever he did good, Guan Zhong praised him; whenever he erred, Guan Zhong remonstrated. If his advice was not accepted, he continued without stopping. Examining myself, I lack Duke Huan (Jiang Xiaobai)'s virtue, yet you have not spoken your remonstrances and remain constrained by apprehension. On that reckoning I must be far superior to Duke Huan (Jiang Xiaobai); I do not know how you compare with Guan Zhong! We have not met for a long time, so let this occasion provide a joke. Who else will join me to establish our great undertaking and bring order to the realm? On every important matter requiring change, I welcome different plans to correct my shortcomings.”

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In the spring of the second year,

in the third month, envoys Yang Dao and Zheng Zhou and General Sun Yi were sent to Liaodong. They attacked Wei's defending generals Zhang Chi, Gao Lü, and others and took men and women captive.

CommentaryThe Wenshi zhuan says: Zheng Zhou, courtesy name Jingxian, was from Pei State. His father Zheng Zha possessed broad talent and learning. When Sun Quan was General of Agile Cavalry, he appointed Zheng Zha Attendant General of the Household; together with Zhang Zhao and Sun Shao, Zheng Zha established court ceremonial. Zheng Zhou, his youngest son, had both civil and military qualities and became known while young. Recommended as Worthy and Upright, he gradually rose to Administrator of Jian'an. A client of Lü Yi broke the law in the commandery; Zheng Zhou arrested him and completed the judicial investigation. Lü Yi bore a grudge and later secretly slandered Zheng Zhou. Sun Quan angrily recalled him, but Pan Jun and Chen Biao both pleaded for him, and he was released. Later appointed Colonel Proclaiming Trust, he went to rescue Gongsun Yuan, who had already been defeated by Wei. On returning he was promoted to Commandant of the Capital. His son Zheng Feng, courtesy name Manji, possessed literary learning and moral conduct. He was friendly with Lu Yun, with whom he exchanged poems. Minister of Works Zhang Hua invited him to serve, but he died before taking up the appointment. I, Pei Songzhi, have heard that Sun Yi was a man from the eastern region, not a member of Sun Quan's clan.

Lingling reported sweet dew. In summer, in the fifth month, Shaxian was fortified. In winter, in the tenth month, General Jiang Mi campaigned south against non-Han insurgents. Liao Shi, a commander under him, killed Administrator of Linhe Yan Gang and others and proclaimed himself General Pacifying the South. Together with his younger brother Liao Qian, he attacked Lingling and Guiyang and stirred up Cangwu, Yulin, and other commanderies in Jiao Province, gathering several tens of thousands of followers. Generals Lü Dai and Tang Zi were sent against them and defeated them all after more than a year.

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In the spring, in the first month of the third year, an edict declared: “A ruler cannot stand without the people, and the people cannot live without grain. Recently they have faced many levies and service obligations, while floods and drought have damaged the harvests. Some officials are unworthy and encroach on the people's working time, causing hunger and distress. Henceforth military supervisors and commandery administrators must carefully investigate unlawful conduct. Anyone who disturbs the people with service duties during the farming and silk-raising seasons must be impeached and reported.” In summer, in the fourth month, a general amnesty was proclaimed. The commanderies and counties were ordered to repair walls, build watchtowers, and dig moats and channels against bandits. In winter, in the eleventh month, the people were hungry, and an edict opened the granaries to relieve the poor.

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In the spring, in the first month of the fourth year, heavy snow lay three chi deep on level ground; more than half the birds and beasts died. In summer, in the fourth month, General of the Guards Quan Cong was sent to raid Huainan. He breached the Shaobei embankment, burned the government storehouses at Ancheng, and carried off the inhabitants. General Overawing the North Zhuge Ke attacked Lu'an. Quan Cong fought the Wei general Wang Ling at Shaobei; commander Qin Huang [his title is written 中即將 here] and more than ten others died in battle. General of Chariots and Cavalry Zhu Ran besieged Fan, while General-in-Chief Zhuge Jin seized Zhazhong.

CommentaryThe Han Jin chunqiu says: Administrator of Lingling Yin Li said to Sun Quan, “Heaven has now abandoned the Cao house. Deaths and executions have followed one another, and at a time of tiger-like contention a young boy directs affairs. Your Majesty should personally command the army, exploiting their disorder and attacking their doomed state. Muster the resources of Jing and Yang provinces, count both strong and weak, let the strong wield halberds and the weak transport supplies. Ask Yi Province in the west to advance into Longyou. Give Zhuge Jin and Zhu Ran large armies to move directly against Xiangyang, send Lu Xun and Zhu Huan separately against Shouchun, and personally enter Huaiyang and pass through Qing and Xu provinces. With Xiangyang and Shouchun hard pressed by enemies and the region west of Chang'an occupied in confronting Shu, the forces of Xu and Luo must be divided. Attacked from converging directions, their position will disintegrate and the people will respond from within. Their generals, facing different fronts, may miss opportunities; once one army is defeated, the others will lose heart. Then feed the horses, grease the carriages, overrun the cities, pursue the defeated enemy, and settle the Chinese realm. If instead we fail to mobilize fully and repeat earlier limited expeditions, they will achieve little and readily end in repeated retreats. The people will be exhausted, our authority diminished, the opportunity gone, and our strength spent. That is no strategy for sending out armies.” Sun Quan could not adopt his proposal.

In the fifth month, Crown Prince Sun Deng died. That month Wei's Grand Tutor Sima Xuanwang (Sima Yi) relieved Fan. In the sixth month the Wu army returned. In the intercalary month, General-in-Chief Zhuge Jin died. In autumn, in the eighth month, Lu Xun fortified Zhu.

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In the spring, in the first month of the fifth year, Sun Quan appointed his son Sun He crown prince and proclaimed a general amnesty. Hexing was renamed Jiaxing. The officials requested the appointment of an empress and four kings. An edict declared: “The realm remains unsettled, and the people and resources are exhausted. Some who have rendered service have not yet been rewarded, while the hungry and cold have not yet received relief. Arbitrarily dividing territory to enrich my sons and relatives and elevating ranks to favor consorts and concubines is something I strongly reject. Abandon this proposal.” In the third month, Haiyan County reported a yellow dragon. In summer, in the fourth month, offerings for imperial use were prohibited and the imperial kitchen's provisions reduced. In autumn, in the seventh month, General Nie You and Colonel Lu Kai were sent with thirty thousand soldiers against Zhuya and Dan'er. That year there was a great epidemic. The responsible officials again requested the establishment of an empress and kings. In the eighth month, Sun Quan appointed his son Sun Ba King of Lu (Sun Ba).

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In the spring, in the first month of the sixth year, Xindu reported a white tiger. Zhuge Ke campaigned against Lu'an, broke the camp of the Wei general Xie Shun, and carried off its people. In winter, in the eleventh month, Chancellor Gu Yong died. In the twelfth month, King of Funan Fan Zhan sent envoys presenting musicians and local products. That year Sima Xuanwang (Sima Yi) led an army into Shu [舒], and Zhuge Ke moved from Wan to Chaisang.

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In the spring, in the first month of the seventh year, Supreme General Lu Xun was appointed chancellor. In autumn, Wanling reported auspicious grain. That year Bu Zhi, Zhu Ran, and others separately memorialized: “Those returning from Shu all say that it intends to break the alliance and communicate with Wei. It is building many boats and repairing city walls. Moreover, Jiang Wan held Hanzhong, but when he heard that Sima Yi was advancing south, he did not send troops to exploit the opening and support us. Instead he abandoned Hanzhong and returned toward Chengdu. The facts are plain and admit no further doubt. We should prepare against them.” Sun Quan judged this untrue and said, “I have treated Shu generously and have not failed it in diplomatic visits, gifts, or sworn agreements. Why should it do this? Moreover, when Sima Yi recently entered Shu [舒], he withdrew after only ten days. Shu [蜀] lies ten thousand li away: how could it know the urgency and immediately send troops? Previously, when Wei intended to enter Hanchuan, we began preparations here but had not yet moved when we heard that Wei had withdrawn, so we stopped. Could Shu reasonably suspect us on that account? When others govern a country, how could they fail to maintain their boats and walls? Does our military preparation here mean that we intend to resist Shu? People's reports are terribly unreliable. I pledge my own household to guarantee this to you.” In the end Shu had no such plan, just as Sun Quan had judged.

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In the spring, in the second month of the eighth year, Chancellor Lu Xun died. In summer, lightning struck a palace gatepost and a pillar of the great bridge at the southern crossing. Floodwater overflowed in Chaling County, sweeping away more than two hundred households. In autumn, in the seventh month, General Ma Mao and others plotted rebellion, and their three degrees of kin were exterminated. In the eighth month, a general amnesty was proclaimed. Colonel Chen Xun [陳勳] was sent with thirty thousand military agricultural settlers and laborers to dig a channel through Jurong, from Xiaoqi [小其] to Yunyang's western city, connecting trading centers and building government storehouses.

CommentaryThe Wu li says: Ma Mao had originally been Magistrate of Zhongli in Huainan. After Wang Ling lost his allegiance, he defected to Wu, which appointed him General Conquering the West, Administrator of Jiujiang, and commander of an outer district, enfeoffed him as a marquis, and gave him one thousand soldiers. Sun Quan often went to the park to shoot with his high ministers and generals. Ma Mao plotted with Acting Prefect of Credentials Zhu Zhen, Wunan Commander Yu Qin, Gate General Zhu Zhi, and others. They would wait until Sun Quan was in the park while the ministers and generals remained outside its gate. Zhu Zhen would then carry the credentials, claim an imperial command, and arrest and bind them all. Ma Mao would lead troops into the park against Sun Quan; they would divide their forces to occupy the palace and Shitou fortress and send word to Wei. The plot was exposed, and all their clans were exterminated.

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In the spring, in the second month of the ninth year, General of Chariots and Cavalry Zhu Ran attacked Wei's Zhazhong, killing or capturing more than one thousand. In summer, in the fourth month, Wuchang reported sweet dew. In autumn, in the ninth month, General of Agile Cavalry Bu Zhi became chancellor; General of Chariots and Cavalry Zhu Ran became Left Grand Marshal; General of the Guards Quan Cong became Right Grand Marshal; General Garrisoning the South Lü Dai became Supreme General; and General Overawing the North Zhuge Ke became General-in-Chief.

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In the spring, in the first month of the tenth year, Right Grand Marshal Quan Cong died.

In the second month, Sun Quan moved to the Southern Palace. In the third month, Taichu Palace was rebuilt, with the generals, provinces, and commanderies all contributing labor described as voluntary.

CommentaryThe Jiangbiao zhuan records Sun Quan's edict: “The palace at Jianye is merely the general's headquarters I built when I came from Jing. Its timbers and pillars were mostly slender and have all decayed; I constantly fear its collapse. Since I am not returning west for the present, we may move the timbers and tiles from Wuchang Palace and use them for repairs.” The responsible officials memorialized: “Wuchang Palace is already twenty-eight years old. Its materials may be unusable. Orders should be sent throughout the relevant districts to fell and deliver new timber.” Sun Quan said, “Great Yu (Yu) was praised for his humble palace. Warfare has not yet ended, and levies are heavy everywhere. If we order widespread felling again, we will obstruct farming and silk-raising. The timbers and tiles moved from Wuchang can be used.”

In summer, in the fifth month, Chancellor Bu Zhi died. In winter, in the tenth month, those under sentence of death were pardoned.

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In the spring, in the first month of the eleventh year, Zhu Ran fortified Jiangling. In the second month, earthquakes occurred repeatedly.

In the third month, the palace was completed. In summer, in the fourth month, hail fell, and Yunyang reported a yellow dragon. In the fifth month, Poyang reported a benevolent white tiger.

An edict declared: “The sage kings of antiquity accumulated good deeds, cultivated themselves, and practiced the Way, thereby possessing the realm. Auspicious signs responded to manifest their virtue. How could I, lacking enlightenment, have brought about this? The Documents says, ‘Though blessed, do not rest upon the blessing.’ Let the high ministers and all officials diligently fulfill their duties and correct my shortcomings.”

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In the spring, in the third month of the twelfth year, Left Grand Marshal Zhu Ran died. In the fourth month, two crows carried a magpie and dropped it at the Eastern Lodge. On bingyin, General of Agile Cavalry Zhu Ju concurrently acted as chancellor and burned the magpie as a sacrificial offering.

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In summer, in the fifth month of the thirteenth year, at the summer solstice, Mars entered the Southern Dipper. In autumn, in the seventh month, it encroached on the second star of the Dipper's bowl and moved east. In the eighth month, mountains collapsed in Danyang, Jurong, Guzhang, and Ningguo, and floodwater overflowed. An edict pardoned outstanding debts and provided loans of seed and grain for food. Crown Prince Sun He was deposed and settled at Guzhang. King of Lu (Sun Ba) was ordered to take his own life. In winter, in the tenth month, Wei general Wen Qin feigned defection to lure Zhu Yi. Sun Quan sent Lü Ju to join Zhu Yi in receiving him. Zhu Yi and the others waited for their baggage train, and Wen Qin dared not advance. In the eleventh month, Sun Quan appointed his son Sun Liang crown prince. One hundred thousand troops were sent to build the Tu embankment at Tangyi to flood the northern route. In the twelfth month, Wei's General-in-Chief Wang Chang besieged Nan Commandery, and Inspector of Jing Province Wang Ji attacked Xiling. Generals Dai Lie and Lu Kai were sent to resist them, and the Wei forces all withdrew.

That year, a divine being was said to have delivered a writing instructing that the era name be changed and an empress appointed.

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In summer, in the fifth month of the first year of Taiyuan, Lady Pan was appointed empress, a general amnesty proclaimed, and the era name changed. Previously a spirit calling itself Wang Biao had appeared in Luoyang County in Linhai.

It moved among the people, speaking, eating, and drinking like a human, yet its form could not be seen. It also had a maid named Fangji. That month, Secretariat Gentleman Li Sui [李祟, also written 李崇 in this passage] was sent with the seal and ribbon of General Supporting the State and King of Luoyang to receive Wang Biao. Wang Biao accompanied him, conversing with him and the administrators and magistrates of the places they visited. Li Sui and the others could not refute what it said. Wherever they passed mountains or rivers, it sent its maid to communicate with the local spirits. In autumn, in the seventh month, Li Sui and Wang Biao arrived. Sun Quan built a residence outside Canglong Gate and frequently sent close attendants with food and wine. Wang Biao's predictions concerning floods, droughts, and minor matters were often reported to come true.

On the first day of the eighth month, in autumn, a great wind arose. Rivers and sea surged over their banks, leaving water eight chi deep on level ground. Pines and cypresses at Gaoling in Wu were uprooted, and the commandery city's southern gate was blown away. In winter, in the eleventh month, a general amnesty was proclaimed. After returning from the suburban sacrifice in the south, Sun Quan fell ill and took to bed.

In the twelfth month, General-in-Chief Zhuge Ke was summoned by relay and appointed Grand Tutor to the Crown Prince. An edict reduced labor service and taxation and removed burdens that distressed the people.

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In the spring, in the first month of the second year, the former crown prince Sun He was appointed King of Nanyang (Sun He), residing at Changsha. Sun Quan's son Sun Fen became King of Qi (Sun Fen), residing at Wuchang, and his son Sun Xiu became King of Langye (Sun Xiu), residing at Hulin. In the second month, a general amnesty was proclaimed and the era name changed to Shenfeng. Empress Pan died. Generals and officials repeatedly visited Wang Biao seeking blessings, but Wang Biao fled. In summer, in the fourth month, Sun Quan died at the age of seventy-one. His posthumous title was Emperor Da (Sun Quan) <Great Emperor>. In autumn, in the seventh month, he was buried at Jiang Mausoleum.

CommentaryThe Fuzi says: Sun Ce was discerning, resolute, and decisive, with courage surpassing the realm. After his father Sun Jian died in battle, he gathered his father's troops and generals while still young to avenge him. Fighting across a thousand li, he took possession of all the territory south of the Yangtze, executed its prominent local leaders, and made his authority felt in neighboring states. When Sun Quan succeeded to his undertaking, he had Zhang Zibu (Zhang Zhao) as a trusted confidant; Lu Yi (Lu Xun), Zhuge Jin, and Bu Zhi as his principal supports; and Lü Fan and Zhu Ran as his fighting men. He assigned responsibilities and offices, watched for openings, and did not move his armies recklessly. Therefore he seldom lost battles, and the region south of the Yangtze remained secure.

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The appraisal says: “Sun Quan could humble himself and endure humiliation, employ talent and value strategy. He possessed the remarkable qualities of Goujian and ranked among the foremost outstanding men. Thus he could command the region beyond the Yangtze and establish one of the three contending states. Yet he was suspicious and jealous by nature and resolute in killing; in his last years these tendencies grew still worse. Slander destroyed worthy conduct, while his heirs were deposed or put to death.

How could this be what is meant by ‘bestowing counsels upon his descendants, to bring them peace’ [the quotation here ends with the uncertain wording 冀於]? The decline of his descendants and eventual destruction of the state may well have originated in this.”

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