Book of Wu · Biographies of Zhang Zhao, Gu Yong, Zhuge Jin, and Bu Zhi

Zhang Zhao, courtesy name Zibu, was from Pengcheng. Fond of learning from youth and skilled in clerical script, he studied the Spring and Autumn Annals with the Zuo Commentary under Baihou Zi'an and read widely. He became renowned alongside his friends Zhao Yu of Langye and Wang Lang of Donghai. Recommended as Filial and Incorrupt around twenty, he declined. He and Wang Lang discussed name taboos for former rulers, winning praise from talented local men such as Chen Lin.

Inspector Tao Qian recommended him as Outstanding Talent. He refused, and Tao Qian, feeling slighted, imprisoned him. Zhao Yu devoted himself to rescuing him and secured his release. Amid late Han's great disorder, many officials and commoners from Xu fled south into Yang Province; Zhang Zhao likewise crossed the Yangzi. Founding his enterprise, Sun Ce made him Chief Clerk and General of the Household Who Comforts the Army, visited his home to bow to his mother like an old companion, and entrusted all civil and military affairs to him.

Letters from northern gentlemen often attributed all praise to Zhang Zhao. He feared seeming secretive if he concealed them, yet improper if he disclosed them, and felt uneasy. Hearing this, Sun Ce laughed: “When Guan Zhong assisted Qi, everyone constantly called him ‘Uncle Zhong,’ yet Duke Huan (Jiang Xiaobai) <a posthumous ducal title> became leader of the hegemonic lords. If Zibu (Zhang Zhao) is worthy and I can employ him, will his achievement and fame not also be mine?”

At death, Sun Ce entrusted his younger brother Sun Quan to Zhang Zhao, who led the officials in establishing and assisting him.

Zhang Zhao memorialized the Han court and sent notices to subordinate cities, directing officers within and outside to perform their duties. Sun Quan, overcome by grief, did not attend to affairs. Zhang Zhao said: “An heir's worth lies in carrying forward his predecessor's path, enlarging the foundation, and completing his achievements. The realm now boils with disorder and bandits fill the hills. How can you, a man recommended as Filial and Incorrupt, lie grieving and indulge an ordinary person's feelings?” He personally helped Sun Quan onto a horse and led the troops out, showing everyone where their allegiance rested. Again serving as Chief Clerk, he retained his former responsibilities.

Later Liu Bei recommended Sun Quan as acting General of Chariots and Cavalry, and Zhang Zhao became military adviser. When hunting, Sun Quan often rode horseback to shoot tigers, which charged and seized his saddle. Zhang Zhao approached in alarm: “General, why behave thus? A ruler is meant to command heroes and employ worthy men, not race across the wilderness competing in courage with fierce beasts. If disaster strikes, how will you bear the world's laughter?” Sun Quan apologized: “Young and shortsighted, I am ashamed before you.” Yet he could not stop, and built a tiger-shooting carriage with square openings and no cover between, driven by one man while he shot from within. When powerful beasts attacked the carriage, he enjoyed striking them personally. Though Zhang Zhao remonstrated, he merely smiled without answering. In Wei's Huangchu 2, the envoy Xing Zhen came to invest Sun Quan as King of Wu (Sun Quan) <his royal title before imperial accession>. Entering the gate, Xing Zhen did not leave his carriage. Zhang Zhao said: “Ritual requires respect in all things, and therefore laws are implemented. How dare you exalt yourself? Do you think the south so weak it lacks even an inch of blade?” Xing Zhen hastily dismounted. Zhang Zhao became General Who Pacifies the Distant and Marquis of Youquan.

At Wuchang's Fishing Terrace, Sun Quan became extremely drunk and had water sprinkled on his ministers: “Today we drink deeply and stop only when we fall drunk from the terrace.” Stern and silent, Zhang Zhao went outside and sat in his carriage. Sun Quan called him back: “We are only enjoying ourselves. Why are you angry?” Zhang Zhao replied: “Zhou (Di Xin) made a mound of wine lees and a pool of wine and drank through long nights. He too thought it pleasure, not evil.” Sun Quan fell silent in shame and ended the drinking.

When Sun Quan first proposed appointing a chief minister, opinion favored Zhang Zhao. He said: “Affairs are many, and this office bears grave responsibility; it would not be a way to favor him.” After Sun Shao died, the officials again nominated Zhang Zhao. Sun Quan said: “Do I begrudge Zibu (Zhang Zhao) anything? The chief ministry is burdensome, and he is unyielding. If his advice were rejected, resentment would arise. That would not benefit him.” He appointed Gu Yong instead.

After Sun Quan assumed the imperial title, Zhang Zhao pleaded age and illness and returned his offices and command.

He was reappointed General Who Assists Wu, ranking next to the Three Excellencies, and changed to Marquis of Lou with ten thousand households. Retired at home, he wrote explanations of the Spring and Autumn Annals with the Zuo Commentary and a commentary on the Analects. Sun Quan once asked Minister of the Guards Yan Jun: “Do you remember books memorized in childhood?” Yan Jun began reciting the Classic of Filial Piety at “Zhongni was at leisure.” Zhang Zhao said: “Yan Jun is a limited scholar. Let me recite for Your Majesty.” He recited the section on a gentleman's service to his superior. Everyone thought his choice pointed.

At court, Zhang Zhao spoke forcefully, righteousness visible in his expression. Having offended Sun Quan with frank advice, he ceased appearing for a time. Later a Shu envoy praised Shu's virtue and no minister challenged him. Sun Quan sighed: “Had Lord Zhang (Zhang Zhao) been here, that man would have been refuted or silenced. How could he boast?” Next day he sent a palace envoy with kind inquiries and requested a meeting. Zhang Zhao rose to apologize, but Sun Quan knelt to stop him. Seated again, Zhang Zhao looked up: “The late Empress Dowager (Lady Wu) <Sun Quan's mother, honored posthumously> and King Huan (Sun Ce) <Ardent King; a posthumous royal title> did not entrust me to Your Majesty; they entrusted Your Majesty to me. Thus I have sought to exhaust my duty in repayment. I hoped to leave something worth recounting after death, but my shallow judgment opposed your wishes. Expecting to sink into obscurity and die abandoned, I never imagined another audience in your presence. Yet my foolish heart serves the state only for loyal benefit, until death. Changing my convictions to steal honors and win indulgence is beyond me.” Sun Quan apologized.

When Gongsun Yuan professed vassalage, Sun Quan sent Zhang Mi and Xu Yan to Liaodong to invest him as King of Yan (Gongsun Yuan) <a royal title offered by Wu>. Zhang Zhao remonstrated: “Gongsun Yuan turned from Wei because he feared attack. His distant appeal was not his original intention. If he changes course to justify himself to Wei, the two envoys will not return. Would we not become the world's laughingstock?” They argued repeatedly, and Zhang Zhao grew more insistent. Unable to endure it, Sun Quan angrily laid his hand on his blade: “Wu's gentlemen bow to me inside the palace and to you outside. My respect is already utmost, yet you repeatedly contradict me before everyone. I often fear I shall lose control.” Looking steadily at him, Zhang Zhao said: “Though I know my words are unused, I exhaust my foolish loyalty because the Empress Dowager (Lady Wu) summoned me beside her bed as she died. Her final charge still rings in my ears.” Tears streamed down. Sun Quan threw the blade down, and they wept together. Yet he sent Zhang Mi and Xu Yan. Angry that his advice was ignored, Zhang Zhao claimed illness and stayed away. Resenting this, Sun Quan blocked his gate with earth; Zhang Zhao piled earth against it from within. Gongsun Yuan indeed killed the envoys. Sun Quan repeatedly comforted and apologized, but Zhang Zhao would not rise. Passing his gate, Sun Quan called to him; Zhang Zhao pleaded grave illness. Sun Quan burned the gate to frighten him, but Zhang Zhao closed his doors more firmly. Sun Quan ordered the fire extinguished and waited long. Zhang Zhao's sons helped him up, and Sun Quan took him back to the palace in his carriage, blaming himself deeply. Only then did Zhang Zhao reluctantly resume court attendance.

Zhang Zhao was solemn in appearance and imposing in manner. Sun Quan often said: “Speaking with Lord Zhang (Zhang Zhao), I dare not be careless.” The whole state stood in awe of him. He died at eighty-one in Jiahe 5, leaving instructions for a simple headcloth, plain coffin, and ordinary clothing. Sun Quan mourned him in plain dress. His posthumous title was Marquis Wen (Zhang Zhao) <Civil Marquis>.

His eldest son Zhang Cheng already held his own marquisate, so his younger son Zhang Xiu inherited.

At twenty, Zhang Zhao's nephew Zhang Fen built a great siege vehicle and was recommended by Bu Zhi. Zhang Zhao objected: “You are still young. Why commit yourself to the army?” Zhang Fen replied: “The boy Wang died in danger and Zi Qi governed E. I lack talent, but I am not too young.” He commanded troops as a general, repeatedly rendered service, rose to commander-in-chief [Ping Province is parenthesized in the supplied text], and became Marquis of Lexiang Village. [Translator's note: The supplied 妝 in Zhang Zhao's question is read contextually as an address to his nephew, not silently changed in the source.]

Zhang Cheng, courtesy name Zhongsi, was known from youth for talent and learning and befriended Zhuge Jin, Bu Zhi, and Yan Jun. As General of Agile Cavalry, Sun Quan recruited him as Western Section aide, then sent him as Commandant of Western Changsha. He subdued mountain raiders and obtained fifteen thousand elite troops. Later he became Commander of Ruxu, General of Rousing Might, and Marquis of the Capital District, commanding five thousand followers. Firm, resolute, loyal, and frank, he recognized talent, raising Cai Kuan of Pengcheng and Xie Jing of Nanyang from obscure youth. Both later became distinguished men, Cai Kuan Minister of the Guards and Xie Jing Administrator of Yuzhang.

When Zhuge Ke was young, everyone marveled at his talent. Zhang Cheng said: “The one who will destroy the Zhuge house is Yuanxun (Zhuge Ke).” Diligent in promoting the young and devoted to discerning men, he received all who showed promise. He died at sixty-seven in Chiwu 7, posthumously Marquis Ding (Zhang Cheng) <Settled Marquis>. His son Zhang Zhen succeeded. After Zhang Cheng lost his wife, Zhang Zhao wished to obtain Zhuge Jin's daughter for him. Zhang Cheng hesitated because of their friendship, but Sun Quan encouraged it, and they married.

They had a daughter, whom Sun Quan took for his son Sun He, repeatedly requiring Sun He to honor Zhang Cheng with a son-in-law's rites. Zhang Zhen also died when Zhuge Ke was executed.

Zhang Xiu, courtesy name Shusi, became a companion of Crown Prince Sun Deng around twenty, alongside Zhuge Ke and Gu Tan, and taught him the History of Han.

From Central Household Attendant he became Commandant of the Right Assistant. Sun Quan often hunted until dusk. Zhang Xiu submitted a warning memorial, which Sun Quan greatly approved and showed Zhang Zhao. After Sun Deng died, Zhang Xiu became Palace Attendant and Commander of the Feathered Forest, overseeing the affairs of three military commands, then General Who Raises Martial Might. Slandered by the friends of the King of Lu (Sun Ba) <a royal title>, he, Gu Tan, and Gu Cheng were accused in connection with merit assessments after Shaobei: Zhang Xiu and Gu Cheng supposedly colluded with Army Supervisor Chen Xun to exaggerate their achievements. All were exiled to Jiao Province. Director of the Palace Secretariat Sun Hong was deceitful and treacherous, and Zhang Xiu had long resented him.

Sun Hong used this occasion to slander him, and an edict ordered Zhang Xiu's death. He was forty-one.

Gu Yong, courtesy name Yuantan, was from Wu County in Wu Commandery.

After returning from Shuofang, Cai Bojie (Cai Yong) took refuge in Wu to escape enemies. Gu Yong studied the zither and writings under him.

Recommended by provincial and commandery authorities, he became Chief of Hefei around twenty, later serving at Lou, Qu'a, and Shangyu, all with administrative success. When Sun Quan concurrently governed Kuaiji but did not go there, he made Gu Yong assistant administrator and acting administrator. Gu Yong suppressed bandits, pacified the commandery, and won officials and people. Several years later he became Left Army Major. After Sun Quan became King of Wu (Sun Quan), Gu Yong rose through Chief Justice and Superintendent of Ceremonies, concurrently Director of the Masters of Writing, and became Marquis of Yangsui District. Returning to his office after investiture, he told his family nothing; they were astonished on learning it later.

In Huangwu 4, he brought his mother to Wu. Sun Quan personally congratulated him and bowed to her in the courtyard, with all the high ministers present; the crown prince later offered congratulations too. Gu Yong drank no wine, spoke little, and acted appropriately. Sun Quan sighed: “Master Gu (Gu Yong) does not speak, but when he does, he hits the mark.” At joyous banquets, attendants feared he would notice drunken misconduct and dared not indulge themselves. Sun Quan likewise said: “Lord Gu (Gu Yong)'s presence makes enjoyment difficult.” Such was his authority. That year he became Grand Minister of Ceremonies, advanced to Marquis of Liling, and replaced Sun Shao as chief minister, overseeing the Masters of Writing. He appointed civil and military officers according to ability, without favoritism. Learning of popular conditions and needed policies, he reported privately. If accepted, he gave credit to the sovereign; if rejected, he never disclosed them. Sun Quan valued this. In public court, his words and expression were mild, but his principles firm. Once Sun Quan asked about shortcomings, and Zhang Zhao reported that laws were too numerous and punishments slightly too severe and should be reduced. Sun Quan remained silent, then asked Gu Yong's opinion. Gu Yong said: “What I have heard agrees with Zhang Zhao's account.” Sun Quan then reviewed cases and lightened punishments.

Later Lü Yi and Qin Bo of the Palace Secretariat inspected government offices and provincial and commandery documents. Exploiting this, they gradually dispensed arbitrary rewards and punishments, established profits from monopoly sales and controls, and prosecuted offenses down to the smallest details. They compounded this with harsh investigation and vile false charges, slandering great ministers and entrapping innocents. Gu Yong and others were accused and reprimanded. When Lü Yi's crimes were exposed, he was imprisoned under the Commandant of Justice. Gu Yong went to judge the case. Receiving Lü Yi as a prisoner with a mild expression, he asked about his statements and circumstances. On leaving, he asked again: “Is there anything you wish to say?” Lü Yi bowed his head without speaking. When Gentleman of the Masters of Writing Huai Xu cursed him to his face, Gu Yong rebuked Huai Xu: “The office has proper law. Why go this far?”

Gu Yong served as chief minister for nineteen years and died at seventy-six in Chiwu 6. When his illness was initially slight, Sun Quan sent physician Zhao Quan to examine him and appointed his youngest son Gu Ji Commandant of Cavalry. Hearing this, Gu Yong said sadly: “Zhao Quan distinguishes life and death well. I will not recover, so the sovereign wishes me to see Gu Ji's appointment.” Sun Quan attended mourning in plain dress and gave him the posthumous title Marquis Su (Gu Yong) <Solemn Marquis>. His eldest son Gu Shao had died early, his next son Gu Yu was gravely ill, and Gu Ji inherited, but died without an heir and the line ended. In Yong'an 1, an edict said: “The late chief minister Gu Yong was supremely virtuous, loyal, and worthy, assisting the state through ritual. I deeply pity the lapse of his marquisate. Let his second son Gu Yu inherit as Marquis of Liling, displaying his former achievements.”

Gu Shao, courtesy name Xiaoze, read widely in classics and histories and delighted in judging character. Young, he equaled his maternal uncle Lu Ji in reputation, while Lu Xun, Zhang Dun, Bu Jing, and others ranked below them.

Promising men from the province and commandery and gentlemen from all directions visited Gu Shao. Some departed after discussion, others after forming close friendships; his reputation spread everywhere. Sun Quan married Sun Ce's daughter to him. At twenty-seven he began office as Administrator of Yuzhang. On arrival he sacrificed at the grave of former worthy Xu Ruzi (Xu Zhi), favored his descendants, and prohibited improper sacrifices. Able junior officials were sent to study, and the most advanced promoted to important posts. By honoring goodness he taught the people, spreading moral influence. Ding Xu of Qiantang came from service ranks, Zhang Bing of Yangxian from commoners, and Wu Can of Wucheng and Yin Li of Yunyang from humble origins. Gu Shao raised and befriended them, establishing their reputations. When Zhang Bing suffered a great bereavement, he personally prepared mourning garments and tied the hemp band. Leaving for Yuzhang, with hundreds seeing him off, he learned Zhang Bing was ill and told the guests: “Zhang Zhongjie (Zhang Bing) is ill and cannot come to bid farewell. I regret not seeing him and shall briefly return to take leave. Please wait.” Such was his attention to men below him wherever goodness lay. Ding Xu became Gentleman of the Household Who Supervises the Army, Zhang Bing Administrator of Yunyang, and Yin Li Administrator of Lingling.

Wu Can became Junior Tutor to the Crown Prince. People considered Gu Shao a judge of men. He died in office after five years, leaving sons Gu Tan and Gu Cheng.

Gu Tan, courtesy name Zimo, became one of the crown prince's Four Friends around twenty alongside Zhuge Ke and others. From Central Household Attendant he became Commandant Who Assists Rectification.

During Chiwu, he replaced Zhuge Ke as Left Controller.

Examining registers, he never used counting rods, merely bending his fingers and calculating mentally to uncover every doubt and error. Subordinates admired him. He additionally became Commandant of Attendant Carriages. Master of Writing for Appointments Xue Zong firmly yielded to him: “Gu Tan's mind is precise and disposition careful, comprehending the Way and its subtleties, discerning men through talent, and answering public expectations through virtue. Your foolish servant cannot precede him.” Gu Tan eventually replaced him.

Several months after his grandfather Gu Yong died, he became Grand Minister of Ceremonies and succeeded him in overseeing the Masters of Writing. The King of Lu (Sun Ba) then enjoyed great favor, balancing Crown Prince Sun He. Gu Tan memorialized:

“I have heard that rulers of states and households must distinguish legitimate and secondary succession, differentiate the rites of high and low, and establish clearly separated degrees. Then affection among blood relatives grows and ambitious hopes end. Jia Yi's plan for secure government examined regional lords' power: with excessive strength, even close kin risk rebellion; with limited strength, even distant kin may be preserved. The ruler of Huainan (Liu Chang), an emperor's own younger brother, did not retain his state because his power was too great. Wu Rui, a distant minister, transmitted Changsha's blessings because his power was limited. Emperor Wen of Han (Liu Heng) <a posthumous imperial title> once seated Lady Shen alongside the empress. Yuan Ang moved her seat back. The Emperor (Liu Heng) was angry, but when Yuan Ang explained distinctions and warned of the ‘human swine,’ he became pleased and astonished, and Lady Shen understood. My proposal favors neither side: I truly wish to secure the crown prince and benefit the King of Lu (Sun Ba).”

This estranged Sun Ba from Gu Tan. Quan Ji, son of General of the Guards Quan Cong, husband of the Senior Princess (Sun Luban) <Sun Quan's eldest daughter>, was Sun Ba's guest. Gu Tan had never accepted his crooked character. Earlier, Gu Tan's younger brother Gu Cheng and Zhang Xiu campaigned north at Shouchun. Quan Cong was Grand Commander-in-Chief and fought Wei's Wang Ling at Shaobei. Wu suffered a reverse, and Wei's victorious troops overwhelmed the Five Camps. Zhang Xiu and Gu Cheng fought vigorously and halted them. Quan Cong's collateral sons Quan Xu and Quan Duan, also generals, then attacked after the enemy had stopped, and Wang Ling withdrew. In assessing rewards, stopping the enemy was judged greater than driving him back. Zhang Xiu and Gu Cheng received generalships with special designations, while Quan Xu and Quan Duan remained subordinate commanders. Quan Ji and his father grew more resentful and jointly framed Gu Tan. [Translator's note: The supplied wording around 五營將（秦兒），軍 is corrupt or uncertain. The clear account of the Five Camps' defeat is translated, without inventing an identity for 秦兒.]

Exiled to Jiao Province, Gu Tan wrote ten essays in New Discourses in frustrated confinement. Knowing Difficulty apparently expressed his own grief. After two years in exile, he died in Jiaozhi at forty-two. [Translator's note: The supplied 仁 before “ten essays” is textually uncertain and is not silently made into an additional essay title.]

Gu Cheng, courtesy name Zizhi, was ceremonially summoned during Jiahe with his maternal uncle Lu Mao. Sun Quan wrote Chief Minister Gu Yong: “Your honored grandson Zizhi (Gu Cheng) has a splendid reputation; meeting him, I found him better than reported and rejoice for you.” He became Commandant of Cavalry commanding Feathered Forest soldiers, then Commandant of Western Wu. Joining Zhuge Ke against the Shanyue, he separately obtained eight thousand elite troops and camped at Zhangkeng. He became General of the Household Who Displays Righteousness and then Palace Attendant. For Shaobei he became General of Rousing Might and Commander Below the Capital. Several years later he, Gu Tan, Zhang Xiu, and others were exiled to Jiao Province. He died at thirty-seven. [Translator's note: The supplied 懼徙 is rendered according to the exile established in the preceding biographies; the unusual graph remains unchanged in the Chinese.]

Zhuge Jin, courtesy name Ziyu, was from Yangdu in Langye.

Late in Han he fled disorder to the lands east of the river. Sun Ce had just died. Sun Quan's brother-in-law Hong Zi of Qu'a recognized his unusual qualities and recommended him. With Lu Su and others, he was honored as a guest, later becoming Chief Clerk and then Central Army Major. In Jian'an 20, Sun Quan sent him to Shu to maintain friendship with Liu Bei. He and his younger brother Zhuge Liang met only at public gatherings, without private meetings afterward.

In advising and remonstrating with Sun Quan, he never became harsh or vehement, merely suggesting his position and outlining its point. If Sun Quan disagreed, he turned to other matters, later approaching the subject gradually through related examples. Sun Quan often came to understand. Administrator of Wu Zhu Zhi had recommended Sun Quan for office. Once Sun Quan resented him but, out of longstanding respect, found rebuke difficult and remained angry. Guessing why, Zhuge Jin dared not speak openly. He requested permission to inquire privately in his own words and composed a letter before Sun Quan, discussing general principles and imaginatively considering Zhu Zhi's position. On reading it, Sun Quan smiled: “My mind is at ease. Is this what is meant by the virtue of Master Yan, bringing men closer together?” Sun Quan also resented Colonel Yin Mo, whose punishment threatened to be grave. The more the ministers pleaded, the angrier he grew. Zhuge Jin alone stayed silent. Sun Quan asked: “Why does Ziyu (Zhuge Jin) alone say nothing?” Leaving his mat, Zhuge Jin replied: “Yin Mo and I saw our home province collapse and our kind nearly destroyed. Abandoning our graves, carrying old and young through wilderness, we came under your sage influence. As displaced dependents, we received the blessing of new life. Yet I failed to encourage and supervise him or offer even a small worthy response, allowing him to betray your favor and fall into guilt. I have no time enough to apologize for my own failure. I truly dare not speak.” Moved with sorrow, Sun Quan said: “I pardon him especially for you.”

He later accompanied the campaign against Guan Yu and became Marquis of Xuancheng. As General Who Pacifies the South, he replaced Lü Meng as concurrent Administrator of Nan Commandery, stationed at Gong'an. When Liu Bei campaigned east against Wu, the King of Wu (Sun Quan) sought peace. Zhuge Jin wrote Liu Bei: “I hear your banners and drums have reached Baidi. Perhaps advisers argue that the King of Wu (Sun Quan)'s seizure of this province and harm to Guan Yu caused such deep hatred that peace is improper. This attends to the small and neglects the great. Let me weigh their relative importance for Your Majesty. If you restrain your anger and consider my words briefly, the decision will be plain without further consultation. How does your closeness to Guan Yu compare with the late emperor (Liu Xie, whom Liu Bei then believed dead)? How does Jing Province compare in size with the realm? Both demand hatred and vengeance, but which comes first? Examine this, and it is easier than turning your palm.”

Someone claimed Zhuge Jin had secretly sent a confidant to communicate with Liu Bei. Sun Quan said: “Ziyu (Zhuge Jin) and I have sworn a bond unaltered by life or death. He will no more betray me than I him.”

In Huangwu 1 he became General of the Left, commanding Gong'an, with acting credentials and the fief Marquis of Wanling.

When Yu Fan was exiled for wild frankness, Zhuge Jin alone repeatedly pleaded for him. Yu Fan wrote a friend: “Zhuge Jin is deeply humane, following Heaven in preserving living beings. His fair judgments have repeatedly helped preserve my position. Yet my evil and guilt are great, and suspicion of me deep. Though I have an elder Qi's rescue, I lack Yangshe's virtue; release is hard to hope for.” [Translator's note: The last allusion invokes Qi Xi's intercession and the Yangshe lineage; its exact intended correspondence remains for review.]

Zhuge Jin possessed dignified appearance and thoughtful bearing; people admired his generosity and refinement. Sun Quan esteemed him and consulted him on great affairs. In one private inquiry he said: “Boyan (Lu Xun) recently memorialized that after Cao Pi's death, the suffering people might have collapsed at sight of our banners, yet remain quiet. He hears they appoint loyal and able men, lighten punishments, extend favors, and reduce taxes and labor to please the people. He thinks the danger greater than under Cao Cao. I disagree. Cao Cao's faults were excessive killing and cruelly dividing blood relatives; in commanding generals, few since antiquity equaled him. Cao Pi fell far short, and Cao Rui falls short of Cao Pi as Cao Pi did of Cao Cao. His pursuit of small kindnesses must come from his father's recent death and his own sense of weakness, fearing the distressed people will collapse. He forces himself to bend for their hearts simply to secure his position. Is this a beginning of flourishing power? “He employs Chen Changwen (Chen Qun), Cao Zidan (Cao Zhen), and the like—literary scholars or imperial kinsmen. Can they command fierce heroes and tiger-like generals to control the realm? Without undivided authority, affairs go wrong. Zhang Er and Chen Yu once shared deep friendship, yet turned against one another when wielding power; circumstances caused it. Men like Changwen (Chen Qun) formerly guarded their duties because Cao Cao pressed upon their heads: fearing his authority, they exhausted themselves and dared no wrongdoing. When Cao Pi inherited, he was already mature, succeeded Cao Cao, and added personal kindness that inspired gratitude. Cao Rui is young and weak, led about by others. These fellows will exploit this to practice clever tricks and form factions, each helping his own associates. Then slander and deceit will arise, mutual accusations create suspicion, subordinates compete for profit, and the young ruler cannot control them. How could failure be long delayed? Since antiquity, have four or five men ever held the power of punishment without estrangement, conflict, and mutual injury? The strong oppress the weak; the weak seek aid. This is the road to disorder and ruin. Ziyu (Zhuge Jin), just listen and wait. Boyan (Lu Xun) is usually good at calculation, but perhaps falls short in this matter.”

After Sun Quan assumed the imperial title, Zhuge Jin became General-in-Chief, Protector-General of the Left, and concurrent Governor of Yu Province. After Lü Yi's execution, Sun Quan issued an edict admonishing Zhuge Jin and others; see Sun Quan's biography. Zhuge Jin answered according to the circumstances, his language compliant and reasoning correct. His son Zhuge Ke was renowned and greatly valued by Sun Quan, but Zhuge Jin distrusted him as no preserver of the family and constantly worried.

He died at sixty-eight in Chiwu 4, leaving instructions for a plain coffin, ordinary clothes, and simplicity in all arrangements.

Zhuge Ke already held a marquisate, so his younger brother Zhuge Rong inherited, took charge of the troops, and stationed himself at Gong'an.

Officers and soldiers were attached to him. With no trouble beyond the frontier, he hunted and practiced arms in autumn and winter, and entertained great gatherings in spring and summer. Officials and soldiers on leave sometimes came a thousand li. At each gathering he asked guests their abilities, brought couches and mats together, and matched opponents in board games, chupu, pitch-pot, archery, and pellet shooting. Sweet fruits followed one another and clear wine circulated slowly. Zhuge Rong moved among them all day without tiring. His father and elder brother had been plain, wearing no bright ornament even on campaign, but he alone dressed in brocade, patterned wool, and embroidery, living luxuriously. After Sun Quan died, he became General of Rousing Might. When Zhuge Ke campaigned against Huainan, he gave Zhuge Rong acting credentials and ordered him into the Mian region against western troops. After Zhuge Ke's execution, Wunan Commander Shi Kuan was sent to join Generals Shi Ji, Sun Yi, Quan Xi, and others against Zhuge Rong. Hearing suddenly of approaching troops, Zhuge Rong panicked and hesitated without deciding. When they surrounded the city, he drank poison and died. All three sons were executed.

Bu Zhi, courtesy name Zishan, was from Huaiyin in Linhuai.

Fleeing disorder to the east, alone and poor, he befriended Wei Jing of Guangling, a contemporary. They grew melons to support themselves, laboring by day and reciting classics and commentaries at night.

Jiao, former Magistrate of Zhengqiang, belonged to a powerful Kuaiji clan.

His retainers were lawless. Seeking a living in his territory and fearing harm, Bu Zhi and Wei Jing prepared visiting cards and melons as gifts. Their host was resting inside and kept them waiting. Wei Jing wished to leave, but Bu Zhi said: “We came because we feared his strength. Leaving now to show pride would only create resentment.” Much later, Jiao opened a window to receive them, seated against an armrest behind curtains, while they sat on mats outside. Wei Jing felt still more humiliated, but Bu Zhi remained composed. The host ate from a great table laden with dishes, giving them small plates of rice and vegetables only. Wei Jing could not eat; Bu Zhi ate his fill and left. Angry, Wei Jing asked: “How could you endure that?” Bu Zhi replied: “We are poor and lowly, so he treats us as poor and lowly. That is natural. What is there to be ashamed of?”

As General Who Attacks the Enemy, Sun Quan summoned Bu Zhi as chief record keeper.

He became Chief of Haiyan, then returned as Eastern Section aide to the General of Chariots and Cavalry.

In Jian'an 15, he became Administrator of Poyang, then within the year Inspector of Jiao Province and General of the Household Who Establishes Martial Power. Taking a thousand military archers, he traveled south by a convenient route. The following year he additionally became Bearer of Credentials and General of the Household Who Conquers the South. Wu Ju, Liu Biao's appointee as Administrator of Cangwu, outwardly submitted but inwardly disobeyed. Bu Zhi humbled himself to win him over, invited him to meet, then executed him publicly, greatly spreading his authority. Shi Xie and his brothers obeyed together; the south's submission began here. Yong Kai and other great clans of Yi Province killed Shu's appointed administrator Zheng Ang and communicated through Shi Xie seeking allegiance to Wu. Bu Zhi sent envoys on imperial authority to proclaim favor and receive them. For this he additionally became General Who Pacifies the Frontier Peoples and Marquis of Guangxin.

In Yankang 1, Sun Quan sent Lü Dai to replace Bu Zhi, who brought ten thousand loyal volunteers from Jiao Province to Changsha. When Liu Bei advanced east and the Wuling peoples stirred, Sun Quan ordered Bu Zhi up to Yiyang. After Liu Bei's defeat, Lingling, Guiyang, and other commanderies remained disturbed, with armed groups everywhere. Bu Zhi campaigned among them and pacified all. In Huangwu 2 he became General of the Right and Protector of the Army of the Left, with his fief changed to Linxiang. In the fifth year he received acting credentials and moved to Oukou.

After Sun Quan assumed the imperial title, Bu Zhi became General of Agile Cavalry and concurrent Governor of Ji Province. That year he took command at Xiling, replacing Lu Xun in securing the two frontier regions. Since Ji Province fell within Shu's allotted share, he soon relinquished that governorship. Crown Prince Sun Deng, then at Wuchang, loved people and valued goodness. He wrote Bu Zhi: “Worthy gentlemen promote great transformation and assist current affairs. My nature is ignorant and I do not understand the principles. Though sincerely wishing to devote myself to bright virtue and associate with gentlemen, I remain uncertain about men far and near and their proper precedence. The Commentary says, ‘Can one love without making an effort? Can one be loyal without instructing?’ Is this not what I hope of you?” Bu Zhi listed eleven men then active within Jing Province: Zhuge Jin, Lu Xun, Zhu Ran, Cheng Pu, Pan Jun, Pei Xuan, Xiahou Cheng, Wei Jing, Li Su,

Zhou Tiao, and Shi Gan. Distinguishing their conduct, he submitted an encouraging memorial:

“I have heard that rulers do not personally attend to minor business; each office performs its duties. Shun appointed nine worthies and had no further care, playing the five-stringed zither and singing the South Wind ode while the realm was governed without his leaving the hall. Duke Huan of Qi (Jiang Xiaobai) employed Guan Zhong, rode with unbound hair, and not only governed Qi but brought the lords into order and unity. More recently, Emperor Gaozu of Han (Liu Bang) <a designation of Han's founder> gathered the Three Heroes and established his imperial enterprise, while Western Chu lost its outstanding men and its accomplishments. With Ji An at court, Huainan abandoned its plots; with Zhi Du on the frontier, the Xiongnu withdrew. Worthy men repel danger ten thousand li away, truly the state's effective instruments and the cause of its rise or decline. Royal influence has not yet reached north of the Han, and usurpers remain beside the Yellow and Luo rivers. Now is the time to gather heroes and employ the worthy. If the enlightened crown prince gives this deep attention, the realm will be fortunate.”

Later, Palace Secretariat official Lü Yi inspected documents and accused many people. Bu Zhi memorialized:

“I hear that the inspectors pry into tiny details and seek flaws by blowing apart hairs, pursuing harsh investigations and deep false accusations to entrap people and establish arbitrary power. Innocent men suffer severe punishment, leaving the people crouching beneath heaven and tiptoeing upon earth. Who does not tremble? Former judicial officers were selected for worthiness. Gao Yao became judge, the Marquis of Lü established redemption of punishments, and Commandants of Justice Zhang Shizhi and Yu Dingguo left no unjust cases among the people. Peaceful blessings arose from this. Today's petty officials differ from antiquity: bribes decide cases, lives are treated lightly, blame returns to the sovereign, and resentment gathers against the state. One person's cry damages the royal Way; such conduct deserves deep hatred. ‘Bright virtue and cautious punishment’ and ‘the wise attend to penalties’ are praised in the Documents and commentaries. Henceforth, judgments at the capital should consult Gu Yong, and at Wuchang Lu Xun and Pan Jun. Let them seek the facts with impartial concentration. If Bu Zhi forms a faction before the spirits, what resentment could he bear at punishment?” He further said: “The Son of Heaven takes Heaven as father and earth as mother; palaces and offices therefore model the constellations. If government reverently follows the seasons and offices have the right men, yin and yang harmonize and the Seven Luminaries follow their courses. Today many offices stand vacant, and even great ministers are distrusted. How could heaven and earth show no change? Repeated droughts answer excessive yang. Earthquakes also occurred on the fourteenth day of the fifth month of Jiahe 6 and the first and twenty-seventh days of the first month of Chiwu 2. Earth belongs to yin and symbolizes ministers; excessive yin causes movement, reflecting ministers' usurpation of government. Heaven and earth display anomalies to warn the ruler. Must their meaning not be deeply considered?” He further said: “Chief Minister Gu Yong, Supreme General-in-Chief Lu Xun, and Grand Minister of Ceremonies Pan Jun bear deep concern and grave responsibility. Intent on sincerity, anxious night and day, uneasy in sleep and food, they seek to secure the state, benefit the people, and establish enduring plans. They are truly the state's heart and limbs. Entrust each with responsibility without other offices supervising their jurisdiction, and judge their results. Unless their thought simply falls short, how could they dare monopolize favor and punishment or deceive their sovereign?” He further said: “Offer rewards to display goodness, establish punishments to overawe wrongdoing, employ the worthy and able, and clarify laws and methods. What achievement would fail, what affair remain unsettled, what hearing miss, what sight overlook? If administrators and county chiefs all are suitable and cooperate in managing affairs, would government not prosper? I hear the counties all have additional officials, whose number burdens the people and damages customs. Petty men exploit commissions not for public service but arbitrary power, helping neither sight nor hearing and further harming the people. I think they should all be abolished.” [Translator's note: Bu Zhi's explanations of celestial and terrestrial anomalies are his historical argument. The compressed phrase 騭黨神明 remains difficult; the translation provisionally takes it as an assertion that he deserves punishment if guilty of factional advocacy before the spirits.]

Sun Quan also awakened to the matter and executed Lü Yi. Bu Zhi submitted several dozen memorials recommending neglected men and rescuing those in danger. Though Sun Quan could not accept all, he sometimes followed them and many benefited.

In Chiwu 9, Bu Zhi replaced Lu Xun as chief minister. He still taught students and never put down his books. His clothes and dwelling resembled a scholar's, though his wives and concubines wore extravagant finery, drawing criticism. For twenty years at Xiling, neighboring enemies respected his authority and trustworthiness. Broad and generous, he won the multitude; joy and anger never appeared in his voice or face, yet all within and without remained orderly.

He died in the tenth [or eleventh, as parenthesized in the supplied text] year. His son Bu Xie inherited, assumed his command, and additionally became General Who Comforts the Army. Bu Xie died and his son Bu Ji inherited the marquisate. Bu Xie's younger brother Bu Chan succeeded to the Xiling command, additionally General Who Displays Martial Might and Marquis of Xi Village. In Fenghuang 1 he was summoned as Commander of the Encircling Headquarters. His family had held Xiling for generations. Abruptly summoned, he considered himself deprived of office and feared slander. He therefore held the city and surrendered to Jin, sending Bu Ji and his younger brother Bu Xuan to Luoyang as hostages. Jin appointed Bu Chan Commander of All Military Affairs at Xiling, General of the Guards, with ceremonial standing equal to the Three Excellencies, additionally Palace Attendant, Acting Bearer of Credentials, concurrent Governor of Jiao Province, and Duke of Yidu. Bu Ji became Supervisor of All Military Affairs at Jiangling, General of the Left, additionally Cavalier Attendant-in-Ordinary, concurrent Administrator of Luling, and Marquis of Jiangling. Bu Xuan became Court Attendant, General Who Proclaims Might, and Marquis of the Capital District. General of Chariots and Cavalry Yang Hu and Inspector of Jing Province Yang Zhao were ordered to rescue Bu Chan. Sun Hao sent Lu Kang west, and Yang Hu and the others withdrew. Lu Kang took the city and beheaded Bu Chan and his associates [a variant reads “captured and beheaded”]. The Bu house was exterminated; only Bu Xuan continued its sacrifices.

Zhou Zhao of Yingchuan wrote about Bu Zhi, Yan Jun, and others:

“From antiquity to the present, worthy gentlemen have lost reputation, life, family, and state for many reasons. Summarizing their recurring dangers, however, there are four: eagerness in argument, competition for fame and influence, attachment to faction, and haste for results. Eager argument wounds others; competition for reputation destroys friendships; faction blinds the ruler; haste loses virtue. Without removing these four, none is preserved. Contemporary gentlemen who avoid them exist beside us [a variant says ‘all stand shoulder to shoulder’], not only in antiquity. Yet for exceptional excellence, none equals Administrator Gu of Yuzhang (Gu Shao), Governor Zhuge (Zhuge Jin), Chief Minister Bu (Bu Zhi), Minister of the Guards Yan (Yan Jun), and General of Rousing Might Zhang (Zhang Cheng). “The Analects says, ‘The Master gently leads people onward,’ and ‘He completes others' good, not their evil.’ Gu Shao possessed this. ‘Seen from afar, solemn; approached, warm; heard speaking, firm’—Zhuge Jin embodied this. ‘Respectful yet at ease, imposing yet not fierce’—Bu Zhi practiced this. Studying without seeking salary, harboring no improper gain—Yan Jun and Zhang Cheng followed this. Their actual virtue differed in degree, yet in the great standards of choice and conduct, all avoided the four faults by one rule. “Ding Xu came from an obscure household and Wu Can from herding. Gu Shao raised their merits to stand alongside Lu and Quan, leaving no talent buried and enriching customs. Zhuge Jin, Bu Zhi, and Yan Jun had been friends as commoners. Discussants initially ranked Yan Jun first, Bu Zhi next, Zhuge Jin last. Later, serving an enlightened ruler and managing worldly affairs, their differing abilities reversed the original order. Ordinary people judge friendship by such changes; yet these three never diminished their affection. Was this not ancient friendship? “General Lu of Hengjiang (Lu Su) once held ten thousand troops at Lukou, a splendid contemporary command desired by capable and incapable alike. On his death, Yan Jun was selected, but judged himself no commander and firmly refused. Later transferred among the Nine Ministers and placed over the Eight Seats, he found no self-display in glory and no private enrichment in salary. The other two reached the highest commands, wealth, and nobility. Yan Jun asked for nothing, and they did not recommend him; each preserved his chosen aim and good friendship. Confucius said, ‘The gentleman is dignified without contention, sociable without faction.’ They had this spirit. “Zhang Cheng's reputation likewise followed the three. He held a regional garrison and high command like Zhuge Jin and Bu Zhi, but their service and achievement differed in precedence, and therefore so did rank and honor. He understood his portion, entertained no improper desire, and sought no artificial advancement or withdrawal. At court he followed ritual, speaking firmly and loyally. Though Shusi (Zhang Xiu) was a close and favored relative, he voiced fear of his downfall; though Cai Wenzhi [identity uncertain in this text] was distant and obscure, he praised his worth. When his daughter married the crown prince, he received ceremonial honors as though receiving condolences. His passionate concern was for judging men, and success and failure unfolded as he foresaw. He may be called a man who preserved the Way, saw opportunities, and loved antiquity. “In managing the state, commanding armies, and establishing hegemonic or royal achievements amid urgent competition, these five did not surpass everyone. But in pure adherence to the Way, refusing improper gain, rising and falling with the age while preserving reputation and conduct, they stood far beyond common custom and truly offered models. I therefore briefly discuss their affairs for later gentlemen.” [Translator's note: The supplied 牧堅 and 懼一揆 are difficult readings, rendered by context as herding and a common standard. Cai Wenzhi is left as supplied rather than silently equated with Cai Kuan, courtesy name Wende, named earlier.] [Translator's note: This passage names Shusi (Zhang Xiu), whereas the earlier biography records Zhang Cheng's prediction about Yuanxun (Zhuge Ke). These references have not been silently unified.]

Zhou Zhao, courtesy name Gongyuan, compiled the Book of Wu with Wei Yao, Xue Ying, and Hua He. Later a Gentleman of the Palace Secretariat, he was imprisoned for an offense. Hua He memorialized to save him, but Sun Xiu refused, and he was executed.

The appraisal says: Zhang Zhao received the final charge and accomplished meritorious service. Loyal, candid, upright, and direct, he acted without selfish aims. Yet feared for severity and kept distant for loftiness, he neither held the chief ministry nor rose as tutor or guardian, merely living quietly in retirement. This shows Sun Quan's inferiority to Sun Ce. Gu Yong relied on established conduct and guided it with judgment and breadth, thus attaining the highest honor. Zhuge Jin and Bu Zhi were valued for virtue, restraint, and standards. Zhang Cheng and Gu Shao were open-minded elders who prized men. Zhou Zhao praised them beautifully, so his discussion is recorded fully. Gu Tan's public counsel showed loyal constancy. Zhang Xiu and Gu Cheng cultivated their purpose and sought goodness. Attacked by rival affections and hatreds, they were scattered to the southern frontier. Alas!