Book of Wu · Biographies of Cheng Pu and the Generals

Cheng Pu, courtesy name Demou, was from Tuyin in Youbeiping. Beginning as a provincial and commandery official, he possessed imposing appearance, strategy, and eloquence. Following Sun Jian, he fought Yellow Turbans at Wan and Deng and defeated Dong Zhuo at Yangren, suffering wounds in sieges and field battles.

After Sun Jian died, he followed Sun Ce in Huainan, helped take Lujiang, and crossed east. He distinguished himself against Zhang Ying and Yu Mi at Hengjiang and Dangli, then at Moling, Hushu, Jurong, and Qu'a, receiving two thousand additional troops and fifty horses. He contributed greatly at Wucheng, Shimu, Bomen, Lingchuan, and Yuhang. When Sun Ce entered Kuaiji, Cheng Pu became Commandant of Wu at Qiantang, then Commandant of Danyang at Shicheng. He defeated rebels in Xuancheng, Jing, Anwu, Lingyang, and Chungu. Once Sun Ce was heavily surrounded by Zu Lang. Cheng Pu and one horseman shielded him, charged shouting with spears, broke the enemy, and let Sun Ce escape. Cheng Pu became General of the Household Who Sweeps Away Bandits and concurrent Administrator of Lingling, joined the campaigns against Liu Xun at Xunyang and Huang Zu at Shaxian, and returned to Shicheng. [Translator's note: Uncertain place spellings such as 石木、波門、陵傳 follow this supplied text without substitution from another edition.]

After Sun Ce died, he assisted Sun Quan with Zhang Zhao and others, campaigning through three commanderies to subdue resistance. He joined the Jiangxia expedition, returned through Yuzhang, separately subdued Le'an, and replaced Taishi Ci at Haihun. As Left and Right Commanders, he and Zhou Yu defeated Lord Cao (Cao Cao) <a respectful designation before his later royal and imperial honors> at Wulin and drove Cao Ren from Nan Commandery. He became Deputy General and concurrent Administrator of Jiangxia at Shaxian, with revenues from four counties.

Oldest among the early generals, he was called Master Cheng (Cheng Pu). Generous and fond of gentlemen, he replaced Zhou Yu as Administrator of Nan Commandery. After Sun Quan divided Jing Province with Liu Bei, he returned to Jiangxia and became General Who Sweeps Away Bandits. He died.

After imperial accession, Sun Quan reviewed his merits and enfeoffed his son Cheng Zi as village marquis.

Huang Gai, courtesy name Gongfu, was from Quanling in Lingling.

A commandery official, he was recommended as Filial and Incorrupt and recruited to a high minister's office. When Sun Jian raised righteous troops, Huang Gai followed him south against mountain bandits and north against Dong Zhuo, becoming Separate-Unit Army Major. After Sun Jian died, he followed Sun Ce and Sun Quan, wearing armor in campaigns, braving blades and storming cities.

Where Shanyue resistance troubled counties, Huang Gai was appointed administrator or chief. Shicheng's officials were particularly hard to control. He appointed two aides over the bureaus and instructed: “I lack virtue and hold office through military merit, not clerical skill. With rebels unpacified and warfare demanding attention, I entrust all documents to you. Supervise the bureaus and correct errors. I shall approve what you submit. If deceit occurs, I will never impose whipping or beating. Do your utmost and do not lead in wrongdoing.” At first they served diligently through fear; later, seeing him ignore documents, they accommodated private influence. Suspecting laxity, Huang Gai checked and found several offenses by each. He invited the officials, gave food and wine, and questioned them with the evidence. Unable to answer, both bowed in apology. He said: “I told you I would not whip or beat you. I have not deceived you,” and killed them. The county trembled. Later Chief of Chungu and Magistrate of Xunyang, he governed nine counties and pacified each, then became Commandant of Danyang, restraining the strong, protecting the weak, and winning the Shanyue.

Stern and resolute in appearance, he cared well for followers, who competed to lead every campaign. During Jian'an, he followed Zhou Yu against Lord Cao (Cao Cao) at Red Cliffs and proposed the fire attack; see Zhou Yu's biography.

He became General of the Household of Martial Edge. When Wuling peoples rebelled and besieged cities, he became administrator. With only five hundred commandery troops, he opened the gate; when half the enemy entered, he attacked, took several hundred heads, and scattered the rest to their settlements. He punished chiefs and pardoned followers, ending rebellion from spring through summer. Distant chiefs of Ba, Li, You, and Dan changed conduct and offered submission, pacifying the commandery. He also suppressed mountain bandits attacking Yiyang in Changsha, additionally became Assistant General, and died of illness in office.

Decisive in office, Huang Gai left nothing delayed, and the people remembered him.

After accession, Sun Quan reviewed his merits and made his son Huang Bing Marquis within the Passes.

Han Dang, courtesy name Yigong, was from Lingzhi in Liaoxi.

Skilled with bow and horse and physically strong, he won Sun Jian's favor, repeatedly braved danger, broke enemy formations, and captured foes, becoming Separate-Unit Army Major.

Crossing east with Sun Ce, he helped settle three commanderies and became Commandant Who Leads the Assault, receiving two thousand troops and fifty horses. He campaigned against Liu Xun and Huang Zu, returned against Poyang, and concurrently governed Le'an, winning Shanyue submission. As General of the Household he joined Zhou Yu against Lord Cao (Cao Cao), later helped Lü Meng seize Nan Commandery, and became Assistant General and concurrent Administrator of Yongchang. In Yidu he joined Lu Xun and Zhu Ran in crushing Shu at Zhuoxiang, becoming General of Formidable Ardor and Marquis of the Capital Village. When Cao Zhen attacked Nan Commandery, he defended the southeast, urging his troops to united defense, respecting superior commands, and obeying law, earning Sun Quan's approval. In Huangwu 2 he became Marquis of Shicheng, General Who Displays Martial Might, and concurrent Administrator of Guanjun, later additionally commander-in-chief. With ten thousand dare-to-die and Jiefan troops he defeated Danyang rebels, then died of illness. His son Han Zong inherited title and command.

That year Sun Quan campaigned against Shiyang. Since Han Zong was mourning, he left him at Wuchang, where Han Zong behaved depravedly. Though Sun Quan overlooked it for his father's sake, Han Zong was afraid.

Carrying his father's coffin, he brought his mother, family, and several thousand male and female followers to Wei, becoming general and Marquis of Guangyang. His repeated border raids and killings made Sun Quan gnash his teeth. Vanguard at Dongxing, he died in defeat. Zhuge Ke sent his severed head to announce the victory at Sun Quan's temple.

Jiang Qin, courtesy name Gongyi, was from Shouchun in Jiujiang. He followed Sun Ce while Sun Ce was attached to Yuan Shu. Crossing east, he became Separate-Unit Army Major, received troops, helped pacify three commanderies and Yuzhang, became Commandant of Geyang, then chief of three counties, suppressing bandits and rising to Western Commandant. When Lü He, Qin Lang, and others disturbed Ye in Kuaiji, he captured them and pacified five counties, becoming General of the Household Who Attacks Yue, with Jingju and Zhaoyang as revenue districts. Joining He Qi with ten thousand troops, he pacified the Yi rebels. At Hefei, when Zhang Liao attacked Sun Quan north of the ford, Jiang Qin fought hard and became General Who Sweeps Away Bandits and Commander of Ruxu. Recalled to the capital, he became Right Protector of the Army, handling litigation. [Translator's note: The supplied “Sun Ce's xi Yuan Shu,” 黝, 涇拘, and 津右護軍 contain difficult readings; the clear context is translated while uncertain place spellings remain as supplied.]

Sun Quan once entered his home and saw his mother's sparse curtains and plain blue-green bedding, and wives and concubines in cloth skirts. Admiring frugality amid high rank, he ordered brocade bedding and new curtains for his mother and embroidered clothing for the women.

While Jiang Qin was at Xuancheng campaigning against Yuzhang rebels, Magistrate of Wuhu Xu Sheng arrested one of his camp officials and requested execution. Sun Quan refused because Jiang Qin was distant. Xu Sheng thereafter feared Jiang Qin's resentment. When Lord Cao (Cao Cao) came to Ruxu, Jiang Qin and Lü Meng coordinated the armies. Xu Sheng feared retaliation, but Jiang Qin constantly praised him. Won over by this virtue, Xu Sheng and commentators admired him.

During the Guan Yu campaign, Jiang Qin commanded the fleet into the Mian and died of illness returning. Sun Quan mourned in plain dress, granting two hundred Wuhu households and two hundred qing of land to his family. His son Jiang Yi became Marquis of Xuancheng and commanded with distinction against Liu Bei, then died fighting Wei in Nan Commandery. Childless, he was succeeded in command by his younger brother Jiang Xiu, who later lost it for an offense.

Zhou Tai, courtesy name Youping, was from Xiacai in Jiujiang. With Jiang Qin, he served Sun Ce closely, respectfully and with repeated battlefield merit. Entering Kuaiji, Sun Ce made him Separate-Unit Army Major with troops. Sun Quan liked him and requested his service. While Sun Ce attacked mountain bandits in six counties, Sun Quan stayed at Xuancheng with fewer than a thousand guards, carelessly neglecting defenses. Several thousand bandits arrived suddenly. As Sun Quan mounted, blades already struck around him, some hitting his saddle. All were confused except Zhou Tai, who threw himself into the defense with extraordinary courage, enabling others to fight. The bandits scattered, but he had twelve wounds and revived only much later. Without him, Sun Quan would have been endangered. Grateful, Sun Ce made him Chief of Chungu. He later joined attacks on Wan and Jiangxia, returned through Yuzhang, and became Chief of Yichun, drawing local taxes wherever appointed.

He distinguished himself against Huang Zu, joined Zhou Yu and Cheng Pu at Red Cliffs, attacked Cao Ren in Nan Commandery, and after Jing Province's pacification camped at Cen. When Lord Cao (Cao Cao) came to Ruxu, he helped repel him, remained as commander, and became General Who Pacifies the Enemy. Zhu Ran, Xu Sheng, and other subordinate generals refused to accept him. Sun Quan personally inspected Ruxu fortress and feasted the generals. Serving Zhou Tai wine, he ordered him to uncover his body, pointed to each scar, and asked its origin. Zhou Tai recounted the battles. Dressed again, they feasted deep into the night. Next day an envoy granted him the sovereign's canopy.

Xu Sheng and the others then submitted.

After defeating Guan Yu, Sun Quan planned against Shu and made Zhou Tai Administrator of Hanzhong, General of Rousing Might, and Marquis of Lingyang. He died during Huangwu.

His son Zhou Shao commanded as Commandant of Cavalry, distinguished himself against Cao Ren at Ruxu and Cao Xiu, and became Deputy General. He died in Huanglong 2, and his younger brother Zhou Cheng inherited command and title.

Chen Wu, courtesy name Zilie, was from Songzi in Lujiang. At eighteen he visited Sun Ce at Shouchun, tall at seven chi seven cun. Crossing east, he earned Separate-Unit Army Major through campaigns. After defeating Liu Xun, Sun Ce selected elite Lujiang men and put Chen Wu over them; they were irresistible. Under Sun Quan he commanded five battalions. Humane and generous, he sheltered many local and distant guests, was especially loved by Sun Quan, who repeatedly visited his home, and rose through merit to Assistant General. In Jian'an 20 he died fighting at Hefei. Sun Quan mourned and personally attended burial.

His son Chen Xiu showed his father's spirit. At nineteen, Sun Quan encouraged him, made him Separate-Unit Army Major, and gave five hundred troops. When new soldiers often deserted, his care won them all and he lost none. Sun Quan made him colonel. Late in Jian'an, reviewing descendants of the meritorious, he enfeoffed Chen Xiu as Marquis of the Capital Village and Commander of the Jiefan troops. He died in Huanglong 1.

Chen Xiu's younger brother Chen Biao, courtesy name Wen'ao, was Chen Wu's son by a secondary consort. Renowned young, he served the Eastern Palace with Zhuge Ke, Gu Tan, and Zhang Xiu, all close friends. Master of Writing Ji Yan was also his friend. When Ji Yan incurred guilt, others protected themselves, speaking lightly of formerly close ties; Chen Biao alone did not, winning respect. He became Central Household Attendant to the Crown Prince and Commandant Who Supports Rectitude. After Chen Xiu died, Chen Biao's mother refused to serve Chen Xiu's mother. Chen Biao told her: “With my brother dead, I manage the household and must honor the principal mother. If you can restrain your feelings and obey her, that is my greatest wish. Otherwise I must live separately.” Such was his impartiality in principle. Both mothers understood and reconciled. Since his father died in battle, Chen Biao sought military service and received five hundred men, treating them devotedly until all gladly risked their lives. When official goods were stolen, suspicion fell on Wunan soldier Shi Ming, a fierce man who endured cruel interrogation without confessing. The Commandant of Justice reported this. Knowing Chen Biao won brave men's hearts, Sun Quan assigned Shi Ming to him to find the truth. Chen Biao removed restraints, bathed and reclothed him, and provided generous food and wine. Shi Ming confessed and named his associates. On receiving the report, Sun Quan admired Chen Biao and, to preserve his reputation, pardoned Shi Ming and executed the others. Chen Biao became Commander of the Wunan Right Division and Marquis of the Capital Village to continue the old title. He begged to yield it to Chen Xiu's son Chen Yan, but Sun Quan refused. In Jiahe 3, Zhuge Ke governed Danyang against the Shanyue, and Chen Biao became Commandant of Xin'an to coordinate with him. His grant of two hundred exempt households lay in Xin'an County, Kuaiji. Finding them all fit for good soldiers, he requested their return to government for recruitment. The edict said: “Your late father served the state. This repays him. How can you decline?” Chen Biao answered: “Destroying the state's enemies and avenging my father depends on men. Wasting these strong men as servants is not my wish.” He enlisted them all. Hearing it, Sun Quan approved and ordered counties to replace them with weaker people from regular households. In three years Chen Biao widely accepted submission and gained more than ten thousand troops. Preparing to leave after success, he heard Wu Ju and other Poyang people had taken cities and disturbed the counties. Crossing the border, he defeated them and accepted their surrender. Lu Xun appointed him Assistant General and advanced him to Marquis of the Capital District, stationed north at Zhangkeng. He died at thirty-four, having spent all wealth supporting soldiers, leaving wife and children homeless. Crown Prince Sun Deng built them a residence. His son Chen Ao became Separate-Unit Army Major at seventeen with four hundred men. After his death, Chen Xiu's son Chen Yan succeeded as major; Chen Yan's younger brother Chen Yong became general and marquis. Shi Ming, moved by Chen Biao, reformed and became a capable general.

Dong Xi, courtesy name Yuandai, was from Yuyao in Kuaiji, eight chi tall and exceptionally strong.

When Sun Ce entered Kuaiji, Dong Xi met him at Gaoqian Post. Admiring him, Sun Ce appointed him to the headquarters Criminal Affairs Section. Huang Longluo and Zhou Bo, longstanding Shanyin bandits, had several thousand followers. In Sun Ce's campaign, Dong Xi personally beheaded both and became Separate-Unit Army Major with several thousand troops, then Commandant Who Raises Martial Might. He joined the attacks on Wan, Liu Xun at Xunyang, and Huang Zu at Jiangxia.

When Sun Ce died and the young Sun Quan took charge, the Grand Consort (Lady Wu) <Sun Quan's mother> anxiously asked Zhang Zhao, Dong Xi, and others whether the east could remain secure. Dong Xi replied: “Mountains and rivers defend the east; the late General Who Attacks Rebels (Sun Ce) <his military designation> left kindness among the people. The General Who Attacks the Enemy (Sun Quan) <his military designation> inherits the foundation, everyone serves devotedly, Zhang Zhao manages affairs, and we provide fighting strength. With favorable ground and united people, there is nothing to fear.” Everyone admired his courage.

Poyang rebels Peng Hu and others had tens of thousands. Dong Xi, Ling Tong, Bu Zhi, and Jiang Qin attacked separate groups. Dong Xi won wherever he went; Peng Hu's men scattered at his flags. All were pacified within ten days. He became Commandant Who Overawes Yue, then Assistant General.

In Jian'an 13, Sun Quan attacked Huang Zu, whose two armored vessels blocked the Mian mouth, anchored by great palm-fiber cables tied to stones. A thousand crossbowmen rained arrows, stopping the advance. Dong Xi and Ling Tong each led a hundred dare-to-die men in double armor aboard great boats into the armored vessels' gap. Dong Xi cut both cables himself, and the ships drifted sideways. The main force advanced; Huang Zu fled and was killed in pursuit. At next day's feast, Sun Quan raised a cup to Dong Xi: “Today's gathering comes from cutting those cables.”

When Lord Cao (Cao Cao) came to Ruxu, Dong Xi accompanied Sun Quan and commanded a five-storied ship at the river mouth. A sudden night storm threatened to overturn it. Attendants escaped to small boats and begged him to leave. Angry, he said: “Entrusted by the general to guard against the enemy, how could I abandon my post? Another word means execution.” None dared. The ship sank that night and he died. Sun Quan changed into mourning dress and supplied generous funeral provisions.

Gan Ning, courtesy name Xingba, was from Linjiang in Ba Commandery.

Strong and spirited in youth, he loved adventuring, gathered reckless young men as their leader, and traveled with bows and crossbows, feathers and bells. Hearing the bells, people knew Gan Ning was coming.

He befriended those, including local officials, who received him generously; otherwise he let followers seize their goods and harm people in their jurisdictions, committing wrongdoing for more than twenty years. Eventually he stopped raiding, read philosophical writers, and joined Liu Biao in Nanyang, but was not employed. Turning to Huang Zu, he was treated as an ordinary man.

He went to Wu, where Zhou Yu and Lü Meng recommended him and Sun Quan treated him like an old minister. Gan Ning proposed: “Han declines and Cao Cao grows arrogant, destined to usurp. Southern Jing's terrain and rivers provide our western strategic position. Liu Biao lacks foresight, his sons are incapable, and his enterprise cannot endure. Act before Cao Cao, beginning with Huang Zu. Old and confused, short of money and grain, deceived by attendants intent on profit, he oppresses resentful officials and soldiers. Ships and weapons decay, farming is neglected, and the army lacks order. An attack must succeed. Defeat him, advance west to Chu's passes, expand our position, and gradually plan against Ba and Shu.” Sun Quan accepted. Zhang Zhao objected that Wu remained anxious and an expedition might provoke disorder. Gan Ning replied: “Entrusted with Xiao He's responsibility, you fear disorder while guarding home. How can you hope to emulate the ancients?” Sun Quan raised wine to him: “This year's expedition is as certain as this cup. Plan resolutely to defeat Huang Zu, and the achievement is yours. Why resent Chief Clerk Zhang (Zhang Zhao)'s words?” He marched west and captured Huang Zu and his forces, then gave Gan Ning troops at Dangkou.

He joined Zhou Yu against Lord Cao (Cao Cao) at Wulin. Before Nan Commandery fell, Gan Ning proposed taking Yiling directly and occupied it with only a few hundred men, barely a thousand including new recruits. Cao Ren sent five or six thousand to besiege him. After days of assaults and arrows raining from towers, everyone feared, but Gan Ning laughed and talked calmly. Zhou Yu relieved him using Lü Meng's plan. Later at Yiyang with Lu Su against Guan Yu, who claimed thirty thousand men and selected five thousand to cross a shallow ford more than ten li upstream at night, Gan Ning offered his three hundred plus five hundred more: “Hearing my cough, Guan Yu will not cross. If he does, I capture him.” Lu Su added a thousand men. Gan Ning went that night; Guan Yu halted and built a timber camp. The place became Guan Yu's Ford. Sun Quan made Gan Ning Administrator of Xiling, concurrently governing Yangxin and Xiazhi.

At Wan, commanding the scaling assault, he climbed the wall himself with a silk rope, leading the men to capture Zhu Guang. Lü Meng ranked first in merit, Gan Ning next, becoming General Who Breaks the Enemy's Charge.

At Ruxu, Gan Ning commanded the vanguard and was ordered to raid the enemy's forward camp. Sun Quan supplied rice, wine, and dishes. Gan Ning fed over a hundred chosen men, drank two silver bowls himself, then poured for his commander, who prostrated himself and hesitated. Laying a white blade on his knees, Gan Ning rebuked him: “Does the sovereign know you better than Gan Ning? If I do not spare death, why should you?” The commander rose, bowed, and drank; every soldier received a silver bowl. At the second night watch they went out with gags to silence speech, alarmed the enemy with an attack, and returned. Gan Ning gained esteem and two thousand troops.

Though rough, fierce, and fond of killing, Gan Ning was open-minded and strategic, slighted wealth, respected gentlemen, and supported brave men who gladly risked their lives. In Jian'an 20, during Hefei's disease-stricken withdrawal, only a thousand Tiger Guards and Lü Meng, Jiang Qin, Ling Tong, and Gan Ning remained with Sun Quan north of Xiaoyao Ford. Zhang Liao saw the opportunity and attacked suddenly. Gan Ning shot arrows and fought desperately, loudly demanding why the musicians were silent. Sun Quan especially admired his steadfast courage.

A kitchen boy who offended Gan Ning fled to Lü Meng, who delayed returning him for fear of execution. Later Gan Ning brought gifts to Lü Meng's mother. Before entering her hall, Lü Meng returned the boy, receiving a promise not to kill him. Back aboard, Gan Ning bound him to a mulberry tree and shot him, then ordered extra mooring lines and lay undressed in the boat. Furious, Lü Meng gathered troops to attack; Gan Ning heard but would not rise. Lü Meng's mother came barefoot: “The sovereign treats you as kin and entrusts great affairs. How can private anger make you kill Gan Ning? Even without punishment, you would act unlawfully as a minister.” Filial Lü Meng immediately relented, went aboard, and smiled: “Xingba (Gan Ning), my mother awaits you for food. Hurry!” Gan Ning wept: “I have wronged you.” They returned and feasted all day.

Sun Quan deeply regretted Gan Ning's death. His son Gan Gui was exiled to Kuaiji for crime and died soon afterward.

Ling Tong, courtesy name Gongji, was from Yuhang in Wu Commandery. His father Ling Cao was bold and adventurous, following Sun Ce from the beginning and always leading assaults. As acting Chief of Yongping, he subdued Shanyue and restrained wrongdoers, becoming Colonel Who Defeats Bandits. Under Sun Quan he attacked Jiangxia, led the advance into Xiakou, broke the vanguard, and pushed on alone in a light boat, dying from a stray arrow.

At fifteen, Ling Tong was widely praised. Remembering his father's death in service, Sun Quan made him Separate-Unit Army Major and acting Commandant Who Defeats Bandits, inheriting the troops. Later, after Sun Quan took Bao camp and returned, Ling Tong and Zhang Yi remained against Ma camp's ten thousand men. Before the fixed assault, Ling Tong drank with commander Chen Qin, whose arrogant courage led him, as presiding drinking officer, to insult the gathering and impose improper penalties. Ling Tong rebuked and refused him. Chen Qin cursed him and his father; Ling Tong wept without replying. After they left, the drunken Chen Qin insulted him again on the road. Unable to endure it, Ling Tong struck him with his blade, and he died days later. Before the assault, Ling Tong said: “Only death can atone.” Braving arrows and stones, he broke his assigned front, enabling complete victory. Returning, he surrendered to the military judge. Admiring his resolve, Sun Quan let merit redeem the offense.

On the next Jiangxia campaign, Ling Tong led several dozen trusted men in one vessel, keeping dozens of li ahead. Entering the right branch, he killed Huang Zu's general Zhang Shuo and captured all aboard. Reporting back, he guided the army at forced pace, converging by land and water. Lü Meng defeated the fleet; Ling Tong first attacked the city, winning great gains. He became Commandant Who Continues Ardor, joined Zhou Yu at Wulin and against Cao Ren, and became colonel. Even in the army, he welcomed worthies, slighted wealth, and valued righteousness like a gentleman of the state.

After Wan, he became General of the Household Who Sweeps Away Bandits and concurrent Chancellor of Pei. Returning from Yiyang after taking three western commanderies with Lü Meng, he joined Hefei as Right Division commander. During withdrawal, the vanguard had gone far when Zhang Liao attacked north of the ford. Sun Quan called them back, but they were too distant. Ling Tong led three hundred intimates into the encirclement and protected Sun Quan's escape. The enemy had broken the bridge, leaving two planks connecting its span; Sun Quan spurred across. Ling Tong returned to fight; all his attendants died, and he was wounded after killing dozens. Judging Sun Quan safe, he withdrew, but with bridge broken, swam underwater in armor. Seeing him reach the royal boat, Sun Quan rejoiced. Grieving all his lost companions, Ling Tong wept uncontrollably. Sun Quan wiped his tears with his sleeve: “Gongji (Ling Tong), the dead are gone. With you alive, why fear a lack of men?”

He became Assistant General, with his original troops doubled.

Someone recommended Sheng Xian of the same commandery as surpassing Ling Tong in firm integrity. Sun Quan said: “Let him equal Ling Tong first.” When Sheng Xian arrived at night, Ling Tong was already asleep, but rose, dressed, met him at the gate, and led him in by the hand. Such was his unjealous love of goodness.

Ling Tong believed many strong mountain people could be won through authority and kindness. Sun Quan sent him east to recruit and campaign, ordering cities to meet his requests before reporting. Loved by soldiers as he loved them, he obtained over ten thousand elite men. Passing his home county, he entered the offices on foot, respectfully presenting himself to senior officials with the three tablets and showing increased affection for old friends. Preparing to leave after success, he died of illness at the age given here as forty-nine. Hearing it, Sun Quan rose from his couch in uncontrollable grief, reduced meals for days, wept whenever speaking of him, and had Zhang Cheng write his epitaph and eulogy. [Translator's note: The supplied age 四十九 is retained; it requires chronological review rather than silent correction. The exact use of the three tablets also remains for review.]

His sons Ling Lie and Ling Feng were only a few years old. Sun Quan raised them in the palace like his own sons and showed guests: “These are my tiger cubs.” At eight or nine he had Ge Guang teach them and allowed riding every ten days. Remembering Ling Tong's achievements, he made Ling Lie village marquis and restored the troops. Ling Lie later lost office for an offense, and Ling Feng inherited title and command.

Xu Sheng, courtesy name Wenxiang, was from Ju in Langye. A refugee in Wu, he became known for courage. Sun Quan made him Separate-Unit Army Major with five hundred men and Chief of Chaisang against Huang Zu. Huang Zu's son Huang She attacked with several thousand. With fewer than two hundred officers and soldiers, Xu Sheng resisted, wounding more than a thousand, then opened the gates and crushed him. Huang She never raided again. Sun Quan made Xu Sheng colonel and Magistrate of Wuhu. Merit against mountain rebels south of Lincheng brought promotion to General of the Household, commanding selected troops.

He opposed Lord Cao (Cao Cao) at Ruxu. When Wei advanced at Hengjiang, he joined the generals aboard armored vessels. A swift wind drove them onto the enemy bank. While others hesitated in fear, Xu Sheng alone landed, struck the enemy, and drove them back with casualties, returning when the wind ceased. Sun Quan admired him greatly.

When Sun Quan acknowledged Wei's suzerainty and envoy Xing Zhen came to invest him as King of Wu (Sun Quan) <his royal title before imperial accession>, he welcomed him at the capital post. Xing Zhen was arrogant. Zhang Zhao became angry, while Xu Sheng told his colleagues tearfully: “We have failed to risk our lives to annex Xu and Luo and swallow Ba and Shu, forcing our lord to covenant with Xing Zhen. Is this not humiliation?” Hearing it, Xing Zhen told his party: “With such generals and ministers, the east will not long remain subordinate.”

He became General Who Establishes Martial Might, Marquis of the Capital Village, and concurrent Administrator of Lujiang, receiving Lincheng as revenue county. When Liu Bei camped at Xiling, Xu Sheng distinguished himself against his camps. When Cao Xiu advanced at Dongkou, he crossed with Lü Fan and Quan Cong to defend. A storm killed many boatmen, but he gathered survivors and faced Cao Xiu across the river. Cao Xiu sent men toward ships to attack; Xu Sheng resisted many with few. Unable to prevail, both withdrew. He became General Who Pacifies the East and Marquis of Wuhu.

When Emperor Wen of Wei (Cao Pi) <Civil Emperor; a posthumous title> advanced intending to cross the Yangzi, Xu Sheng proposed building defenses from Jianye, with fences, false towers, and floating ships. Other generals thought it useless, but he insisted. At Guangling, Emperor Wen (Cao Pi) saw defenses extending hundreds of li and was astonished. With the river high, he withdrew, and the generals admired Xu Sheng.

Xu Sheng died during Huangwu. His son Xu Kai inherited title and troops.

Pan Zhang, courtesy name Wengui, was from Fagan in Dong Commandery. He joined Sun Quan when the latter was Chief of Yangxian. Reckless and fond of wine, poor and drinking on credit, he told creditors he would repay when rich. Sun Quan liked his unusual spirit and had him recruit. Obtaining more than a hundred men, he became commander, earned Separate-Unit Army Major against mountain bandits, and later policed Wu's great market, eliminating theft and gaining reputation. As Chief of Xi'an in Yuzhang, he stopped raids from Liu Biao's Jing Province. When neighboring Jianchang rebelled, he took charge there as Commandant of Martial Valor, pacified it within weeks, gathered eight hundred scattered men, and returned to Jianye.

At Hefei, Zhang Liao attacked unexpectedly. Chen Wu died; Song Qian and Xu Sheng fled. Coming from the rear, Pan Zhang rode forward and beheaded two fleeing soldiers of their commands. All returned to battle. Sun Quan made him Assistant General, commanding a hundred units at Banzhou.

Against Guan Yu, Pan Zhang and Zhu Ran blocked escape routes, reaching Jiashi at Linju. His army major Ma Zhong captured Guan Yu, his son Guan Ping, and commander Zhao Lei. Sun Quan divided Wu and Zigui counties from Yidu to create Guling Commandery, making Pan Zhang administrator, General of Arousing Might, and Marquis of Liyang. After Gan Ning died he also absorbed his troops. When Liu Bei advanced at Yiling, Pan Zhang joined Lu Xun; his men killed Protector of the Army Feng Xi and many others. He became General Who Pacifies the North and Administrator of Xiangyang.

When Xiahou Shang and others besieged Nan Commandery, thirty thousand Wei vanguard troops built a floating bridge to Baili Island. Zhuge Jin and Yang Can brought relief but found no plan, while Wei crossed daily. Pan Zhang said: “They are strong and the river shallow. Not yet time to fight.” Fifty li upstream, he cut millions of bundles of reeds and bound great rafts to burn the bridge downstream. As the rafts were finished and he awaited rising water, Xiahou Shang withdrew. Pan Zhang defended Lukou and, after Sun Quan's imperial accession, became General of the Right.

Rough and fierce, enforcing discipline and eager for achievement, he commanded only a few thousand but seemed to have ten thousand. On campaigns he established a military market, supplying what other armies lacked. Yet he was extravagant, increasingly so in later years, with clothing and possessions beyond his rank. He sometimes killed rich officers and soldiers for their goods and repeatedly violated law. Inspectors reported him, but Sun Quan prized his achievements and pardoned him. He died in Jiahe 3. His son Pan Ping was exiled to Kuaiji for misconduct. His wife stayed at Jianye with land, a residence, and fifty exempt guest households.

Ding Feng, courtesy name Chengyuan, was from Anfeng in Lujiang. Brave from youth, he served as a junior commander under Gan Ning, Lu Xun, Pan Zhang, and others, repeatedly leading battles, taking heads and flags, and suffering wounds. He rose to Assistant General. After Sun Liang's accession, he became General Who Crowns the Army and Marquis of the Capital Village.

Wei sent Zhuge Dan and Hu Zun against Dongxing, and Zhuge Ke resisted. Generals said the enemy would flee on hearing the Grand Tutor had come ashore. Ding Feng disagreed: “They mobilized their realm and the armies of Xu and Luo with a fixed plan, not to return empty. Rely not on their failure to come, but our ability to defeat them.” After landing, he joined Tang Zi, Lü Ju, and Liu Zan west of the mountain. Finding the armies slow, he left their route and took three thousand directly ahead. A north wind carried him by sail to Xutang in two days. Amid cold and snow, enemy generals feasted. Seeing few vanguard troops, he said: “Today we win titles and rewards!” He had men remove armor, retain helmets, and take short weapons. The enemy laughed without preparing. His charge crushed their forward camp; Lü Ju and others arrived, and Wei collapsed. Ding Feng became General Who Destroys Bandits and Marquis of the Capital District.

When Wen Qin surrendered from Wei, Ding Feng became General of Tiger Might and accompanied Sun Jun to receive him at Shouchun. Fighting pursuers at Gaoting, he charged mounted with a spear, took several hundred heads and their weapons, and became Marquis of Anfeng.

In Taiping 2, Wei's General-in-Chief Zhuge Dan held Shouchun and submitted. Wei besieged him. Zhu Yi and Tang Zi were sent to relieve him, followed by Ding Feng and Li Fei. Leading the advance at Lijiang, Ding Feng fought with distinction and became General of the Left.

After Sun Xiu's accession, Zhang Bu advised using Ding Feng against Sun Chen: “Though unskilled in clerical writing, his strategy is exceptional and he can decide great matters.” Sun Xiu told him Sun Chen controlled the state and intended rebellion. Ding Feng replied: “The chief minister's brothers, friends, and faction are strong. Division makes sudden control difficult. Use the year-end sacrifice gathering and Your Majesty's own troops.” Sun Xiu agreed, invited Sun Chen, and Ding Feng and Zhang Bu signaled attendants to kill him. Ding Feng became General-in-Chief and additionally Protector-General of the Left and Right. In Yong'an 2 he received acting credentials and concurrent governorship of Xu Province. In the sixth year, when Wei invaded Shu, he advanced toward Shouchun as relief. Shu fell, and he returned.

After Sun Xiu died, Ding Feng and Chief Minister Puyang Xing followed Wan Yu's advice and enthroned Sun Hao. He became Grand Marshal of the Right and Military Adviser of the Left. In Baoding 3 he and Zhuge Jing attacked Hefei. A letter to Jin general Shi Bao sowed suspicion, causing Shi Bao's recall. In Jianheng 1 he again worked at Xutang and attacked Guyang, but warned inhabitants had fled, leaving nothing. Angry, Sun Hao executed his guide. Ding Feng died in the third year. High rank and merit had gradually made him arrogant, and slander followed. Recalling the earlier expedition, Sun Hao exiled his family to Linchuan. His younger brother Ding Feng <same romanization, but written 丁封 rather than 丁奉> had risen to General of the Rear and died before him.

The appraisal says: All these generals were tiger-like ministers east of the river, generously treated by the Sun house. Despite Pan Zhang's misconduct, Sun Quan remembered merit and forgot faults. It is fitting that he held the southeast! Chen Biao, a general's secondary-line son, stood equally with hereditary heirs and celebrated men, rising above his peers. Was this not admirable?