Book of Wei · Biographies of the Xiahou and Cao Families — English Translation

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Xiahou Dun, courtesy name Yuanrang, was from Qiao in Pei State and descended from Xiahou Ying. At fourteen he studied under a teacher; when someone insulted that teacher, he killed the offender and became known for fierce resolve. From the first rising of Taizu (Cao Cao) <Great Ancestor; a temple name conferred on Cao Cao posthumously>, Xiahou Dun served as a subordinate general on campaign. When Taizu (Cao Cao) acted as General Exerting Martial Might, he made Xiahou Dun a major, separately stationed at Baima. Xiahou Dun became Colonel Breaking Enemy Charges and concurrent Administrator of Dong Commandery. During Taizu (Cao Cao)'s campaign against Tao Qian he defended Puyang. Zhang Miao rebelled and welcomed Lü Bu. Taizu (Cao Cao)'s household was at Juancheng; Xiahou Dun hurried there with a light escort and encountered Lü Bu in battle. Lü Bu withdrew and entered Puyang, capturing Xiahou Dun's baggage. He sent officers to feign surrender; together they seized Xiahou Dun and demanded treasure. His army panicked. His general Han Hao drew up troops at the camp gate, summoned officers and commanders, and ordered everyone to remain armed at his assigned post, stabilizing the camps. He then approached the captors and shouted, “Rebels! How dare you abduct a great general and still expect to live? I am commissioned to punish enemies. Can I let you go merely for one general's sake?” Weeping, he told Xiahou Dun, “What can be done about the state's law?” He hurried troops forward to attack. Terrified, the captors knocked their heads on the ground: “We only wanted traveling funds!” Han Hao rebuked and executed them all. After Xiahou Dun was freed, Taizu (Cao Cao) told Han Hao, “This can be a rule for ten thousand generations.” He ordered that hostage-takers henceforth be attacked together with their captives, without regard for the hostages. Thereafter hostage-taking ceased.

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After Taizu (Cao Cao) returned from Xu Province, Xiahou Dun joined the campaign against Lü Bu. A stray arrow struck and injured his left eye.

He again concurrently governed Chenliu and Jiyin, became General Establishing Martial Might, and was enfeoffed as Marquis of Gao'an Township. During severe drought and locust infestation, he dammed the Taishou watercourse to form a reservoir, personally carried earth, and led officers and soldiers in encouraging rice cultivation. The people benefited. He became Intendant of Henan and served as the great army's rear guard during Taizu (Cao Cao)'s pacification of the north. After Ye fell, he became General Subduing the Waves while retaining the intendancy, authorized to act expediently without rigid adherence to regulations. In Jian'an 12 his accumulated services earned an additional eighteen hundred households, making twenty-five hundred in all. In the twenty-first year, after returning from the campaign against Sun Quan, he supervised twenty-six armies and remained at Juchao. He received musicians and celebrated performers, with an order: “Wei Jiang received music of bells and stone chimes for reconciling the frontier peoples. How much more should you!” In the twenty-fourth year, while Taizu (Cao Cao) camped at Mobei, he repeatedly rode in the same carriage with Xiahou Dun. Xiahou Dun could enter his private sleeping quarters, an intimacy unmatched by other generals. He was appointed General of the Front.

He led the armies back to Shouchun and moved his camp to Shaoling. When Emperor Wen (Cao Pi) <Civil Emperor; a posthumous imperial title> succeeded as king, he appointed Xiahou Dun General-in-Chief. Xiahou Dun died several months later.

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Even on campaign, Xiahou Dun personally received teachers for study. Frugal and honest, he distributed surplus wealth, requested official support when short, and built no private estate. His posthumous title was Marquis Zhong (Xiahou Dun) <Loyal Marquis>. His son Xiahou Chong succeeded. Remembering his achievements and wishing all his descendants to hold rank, the emperor detached one thousand households from his fief and gave his seven sons and two grandsons the rank of Marquis within the Passes. His younger brother Xiahou Lian and son Xiahou Mao had already received ranked marquisates independently. Taizu (Cao Cao) had married his daughter, Princess of Qinghe (Lady Cao), to Xiahou Mao. Xiahou Mao served as Palace Attendant, Master of Writing, and General Pacifying the West and Garrisoning the East, with credentials.

CommentaryThe Wei lüe says: Xiahou Mao, courtesy name Zilin, was a middle son of Xiahou Dun. Emperor Wen (Cao Pi) had been close to him in youth and, upon accession, made him General Pacifying the West with credentials, succeeding Xiahou Yuan in supervising Guanzhong. He lacked military strategy but liked accumulating property. In Taihe 2, when Emperor Ming (Cao Rui) <Illustrious Emperor; a posthumous imperial title> campaigned west, accusations led to his recall as Master of Writing. In the west he had kept many entertainers and concubines, estranging the princess. Later he repeatedly rebuked his younger brothers for misconduct. Fearing punishment, they fabricated slander, which the princess memorialized, and he was arrested. The emperor wanted to execute him and consulted Colonel of the Long River Cavalry Duan Mo of Jingzhao. Duan Mo said, “This must arise from the princess's estrangement and false accusations, hoping no inquiry will establish the truth. Moreover, the General Subduing the Waves (Xiahou Dun) helped the late emperor [先帝; the intended imperial predecessor here requires checking] settle the realm. Reconsider carefully.” The emperor relented: “I think so too.” Investigation of those who drafted the princess's memorial proved it was fabricated by Xiahou Mao's brothers Zizang and Zijiang [their courtesy names are supplied here].

Xiahou Chong died and was succeeded by his son Xiahou Yi; after Xiahou Yi died, his son Xiahou Shao succeeded.

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Han Hao was from Henei. He and Shi Huan of Pei State became renowned for loyalty and courage. Han Hao rose to Central Protector of the Army, and Shi Huan to Central Commander of the Army, both commanding imperial guards and holding ranked marquisates.

CommentaryThe Wei shu says: Han Hao's courtesy name was Yuansi. During the late Han rising of armies, bandits infested the hills and marshes near his county. He gathered followers to protect it. Administrator Wang Kuang made him an attendant and put him over troops resisting Dong Zhuo at Mengjin. Dong Zhuo seized his maternal uncle Du Yang, Magistrate of Heyin, and tried to make him recruit Han Hao, but Han Hao refused. Admiring this, Yuan Shu made him Cavalry Commandant. Xiahou Dun heard of him, met him, and put him over campaigning troops. During policy discussions Han Hao advocated urgent attention to agriculture. Taizu (Cao Cao) approved and made him Protector of the Army. Before the Liucheng campaign, Commander of the Army Shi Huan thought its distant penetration unsafe and wanted Han Hao to join a remonstrance. Han Hao replied, “Our army is strong and its authority reaches everywhere. All our battles and conquests succeed. If we do not remove the realm's danger now, it will trouble us later. Our lord's inspired military judgment never misses a plan. As leaders of the central army, we should not discourage the troops.” After Liucheng's fall, his office became Central Protector of the Army, with a chief clerk and major. He joined the campaign against Zhang Lu, who surrendered. Some thought his wisdom suited frontier command and proposed leaving him over the armies at Hanzhong. Taizu (Cao Cao) said, “How can I do without the Protector of the Army?” and brought him back. Such was his trust. Taizu (Cao Cao) mourned his death. Having no natural son, he was succeeded by his adopted son Han Rong. Shi Huan, courtesy name Gongliu, was chivalrous and heroic in youth. He joined Taizu (Cao Cao)'s first rising as a guest, acted as Colonel of the Central Army, and regularly supervised the generals on campaign. Trusted closely, he became Central Commander of the Army. He died in the fourteenth year and was succeeded by his son Shi Jing.

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Xiahou Yuan, courtesy name Miaocai, was Xiahou Dun's younger clansman. Before Taizu (Cao Cao) entered office, a county legal affair implicated him. Xiahou Yuan accepted the grave charge in his place, but Taizu (Cao Cao) secured his release.

When Taizu (Cao Cao) raised troops, Xiahou Yuan followed as Major of a Separate Command and Cavalry Commandant, later governing Chenliu and Yingchuan. At Guandu he acted as Colonel Supervising the Army. After Yuan Shao's defeat he supervised supplies from Yan, Yu, and Xu provinces. With military food scarce, his continuous deliveries revived the army. When Chang Xi rebelled, Yu Jin failed to take his position, so Xiahou Yuan was sent to join him. They took more than ten camps, and Chang Xi surrendered to Yu Jin. Returning, Xiahou Yuan became Colonel Directing the Army.

Yellow Turban leaders Xu He and Sima Ju attacked cities and killed officials in Jinan and Le'an. Xiahou Yuan led troops from Taishan, Qi, and Pingyuan, defeated them, killed Xu He, pacified the counties, and took grain for his soldiers. In the fourteenth year he became Acting Commander of the Army. After Taizu (Cao Cao) returned from Sun Quan's territory, Xiahou Yuan supervised an attack on Lujiang rebel Lei Xu and defeated him. As Acting Protector of the Army Conquering the West, he supervised Xu Huang against Taiyuan's rebels, taking more than twenty camps, killing their leader Shang Yao, and storming his city. He joined the campaign against Han Sui and others south of the Wei River, then supervised Zhu Ling in pacifying the Di of Yumi and Qian. At Anding he joined Taizu (Cao Cao) in receiving Yang Qiu's surrender.

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In the seventeenth year Taizu (Cao Cao) returned to Ye, leaving Xiahou Yuan as Acting General Protecting the Army over Zhu Ling, Lu Zhao, and others at Chang'an. He defeated southern-mountain rebel Liu Xiong and accepted his followers' surrender. At Hu he besieged Liang Xing, a remnant ally of Han Sui and Ma Chao, took his position, and killed him, becoming Marquis of Bochang Village. Ma Chao besieged Inspector of Liang Province Wei Kang at Ji. Xiahou Yuan went to relieve him, but Wei Kang fell before he arrived. More than two hundred li from Ji, Ma Chao met and defeated him. When the Qian Di rebelled, Xiahou Yuan withdrew. In the nineteenth year Zhao Qu, Yin Feng, and others plotted against Ma Chao, and Jiang Xu rose at Lucheng in support. They tricked Ma Chao into attacking Jiang Xu and killed his wife and children behind him. Ma Chao fled to Hanzhong and returned to besiege Qishan. Jiang Xu urgently sought help. Some generals wanted Taizu (Cao Cao)'s instructions first. Xiahou Yuan said, “Our lord is at Ye, four thousand li there and back. Before a reply arrives, Jiang Xu will fall. That is no emergency rescue.” He marched, sending Zhang He ahead with five thousand infantry and cavalry through Chencang's narrow route while he supervised supplies behind. At the Wei River Ma Chao met Zhang He with several thousand Di and Qiang, but fled before battle. Zhang He took his equipment. By Xiahou Yuan's arrival the counties had surrendered. Han Sui was at Xianqin. Xiahou Yuan attempted a surprise attack, but Han Sui escaped. Taking his supplies, Xiahou Yuan pursued to Lüeyang, little more than twenty li away. Some generals proposed attacking Han Sui, others the Di at Xingguo. Xiahou Yuan judged Han Sui's troops elite and Xingguo too strong to capture quickly. Better strike the Qiang of Changli: many served Han Sui and would return to save their families. Left unsupported, the Qiang would be isolated; if Han Sui rescued Changli, the government army could force an open battle and capture him. Leaving commanders with the baggage, he took light infantry and cavalry to burn Qiang camps at Changli, killing and capturing many. Qiang serving Han Sui returned to their own settlements. Han Sui indeed came to help. Seeing his numbers, the generals feared and wanted fortified camps before battle. Xiahou Yuan said, “We have fought across a thousand li. More camps and trenches will exhaust the men; we cannot delay. Numerous though the enemy is, he is easy to handle.” He sounded the drums and decisively defeated Han Sui, capturing his standards. Returning to Lüeyang, he advanced against Xingguo. Di King (Qianwan) fled to Ma Chao and the rest surrendered. He then attacked the Tuge at Gaoping, scattered them, and seized grain, cattle, and horses. He received credentials.

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During Liang Province's disorder, Song Jian of Fuhan had styled himself King Pacifying Han at the River's Head (Song Jian). Taizu (Cao Cao) sent Xiahou Yuan and the generals against him. After a siege of over a month they took Fuhan and killed Song Jian and his appointed chancellor and officials. Zhang He and others separately pacified Heguan and crossed into Little Huangzhong. All the Qiang west of the river submitted, settling Longyou. Taizu (Cao Cao) ordered: “Song Jian has rebelled for over thirty years. Xiahou Yuan destroyed him in one stroke and strides through the lands west of the passes like a tiger, meeting no opposition. Zhongni [Confucius] said, ‘You and I are not his equals.’” In the twenty-first year Xiahou Yuan received three hundred additional households, making eight hundred in all. Returning against the Di and Qiang of Wudu at Xiabian, he took over one hundred thousand hu of Di grain. When Taizu (Cao Cao) campaigned west against Zhang Lu, Xiahou Yuan brought Liang Province's generals, marquises, and kings to meet him at Xiuting. Whenever Taizu (Cao Cao) received Qiang and other non-Han leaders, he used Xiahou Yuan to overawe them. After Zhang Lu's surrender and Hanzhong's pacification, Xiahou Yuan became Acting General of Overall Protection and supervised Zhang He, Xu Huang, and others in pacifying Ba Commandery. Taizu (Cao Cao) returned to Ye, leaving him in Hanzhong and formally appointing him General Conquering the West. In the twenty-third year Liu Bei camped at Yangping Pass; Xiahou Yuan confronted him in a struggle lasting into the following year. In the first month of the twenty-fourth year Liu Bei burned the siege perimeter's defensive antlers at night. Xiahou Yuan assigned Zhang He to the eastern sector and personally took light troops to the south. Liu Bei challenged Zhang He, whose troops fared badly. Xiahou Yuan detached half his men to help, was surprised by Liu Bei, and died in battle. His posthumous title was Marquis Min (Xiahou Yuan) <a posthumous title expressing commiseration>.

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Although Xiahou Yuan frequently won, Taizu (Cao Cao) repeatedly warned him: “A commander must sometimes be cautious and yielding, not rely on courage alone. Courage should be his foundation, guided by wisdom and planning. Mere bravery makes only a single opponent's match.”

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Xiahou Yuan's wife was the younger sister of Taizu (Cao Cao)'s wife. His eldest son Xiahou Heng married the daughter of Taizu (Cao Cao)'s younger brother, Marquis Ai of Haiyang (Cao clansman, personal name not supplied here), and received exceptional favor. Xiahou Heng inherited the title, later transferred to Marquis of Anning Village. During Huangchu his middle son Xiahou Ba received the rank of Marquis within the Passes; during Taihe Xiahou Ba's four younger brothers received the same rank. During Zhengshi, Xiahou Ba became Protector of the Army Attacking Shu and General of the Right, advancing to Marquis of Bochang Village. Cao Shuang had treated him generously. Hearing of Cao Shuang's execution, he feared for himself and fled to Shu. Because of Xiahou Yuan's former services, his sons were pardoned and relocated to Lelang Commandery.

CommentaryThe Wei lüe says: Xiahou Ba's courtesy name was Zhongquan. Because Shu had killed his father, he bitterly desired revenge. During Huangchu he became a lieutenant general. On the Ziwu campaign he was summoned as vanguard and advanced to the Xingshi perimeter, camping in a winding valley. Recognizing him, the Shu troops directed an attack against him. He fought personally among the defensive antlers and escaped only when relief arrived. Later General of the Right at Longxi, he cared for his soldiers and reconciled frontier peoples, winning both groups' affection. During Zhengshi he replaced Xiahou Ru as Protector of the Army Conquering Shu, subordinate to the General Conquering the West. That general, Xiahou Xuan, was his nephew's generation in the clan and Cao Shuang's younger maternal cousin. After Sima Xuanwang (Sima Yi) <King Xuan; a posthumous royal title> executed Cao Shuang, he recalled Xiahou Xuan eastward. Hearing both events, Xiahou Ba feared the disaster would spread to him. He had also quarreled with Inspector of Yong Province Guo Huai, who now replaced Xiahou Xuan, increasing his fear. He fled toward Yinping but lost the road in an inaccessible valley. Food exhausted, he killed his horse and walked until his feet broke down, then lay beneath a cliff while men sought a route. Shu learned of this and sent guides to receive him. Earlier, in Jian'an 5, Xiahou Ba's younger female cousin, aged thirteen or fourteen, went out gathering firewood in her home commandery and was captured by Zhang Fei. Learning that she was from a respectable family, he made her his wife. Their daughter became Liu Shan's empress. Thus, after Xiahou Yuan died, Zhang Fei's wife requested his burial. When Xiahou Ba entered Shu, Liu Shan told him, “Your father died in battle; my late father did not personally strike him down.” Pointing to his children, he said, “These are the Xiahou family's maternal descendants.” He granted Xiahou Ba generous rank and favor.

Xiahou Ba's younger brother Xiahou Wei rose to Inspector of Yan Province.

Xiahou Wei's younger brother Xiahou Hui became Administrator of Le'an.

Xiahou Hui's younger brother Xiahou He became Intendant of Henan.

CommentaryThe Shiyu says: Xiahou He, courtesy name Yiquan, spoke clearly and argued ably. He served as Intendant of Henan and Grand Minister of Ceremonies. Xiahou Yuan's third son was Xiahou Cheng and fifth Xiahou Rong. Their clan grandnephew Xiahou Zhan wrote this account: “Xiahou Cheng, courtesy name Shuquan, loved gathering boys and leading them from childhood. Their games always involved armies and formations; he whipped offenders sternly, and none dared resist. Xiahou Yuan secretly admired him and had him read the biography of Xiang Yu and military books. He refused: ‘Ability means acting for oneself. Why learn from others?’ At sixteen he hunted with his father. Seeing a tiger run, he pursued on horseback despite orders to stop and felled it with one arrow. Taizu (Cao Cao) heard and delightedly clasped his hand: ‘I have gained you!’ He and Emperor Wen (Cao Pi) formed a friendship without distinction of rank. His spirit dominated gatherings and debaters could not overcome him; many celebrated men associated with him. He died aged eighteen. His younger brother Xiahou Rong, courtesy name Youquan, was intelligent from childhood, composing at seven and reciting a thousand written words daily, remembering everything he saw. Emperor Wen (Cao Pi) heard and invited him. More than one hundred guests each presented a calling card with native place and name. After one glance at each, he could recount them all without error. The emperor marveled. At Hanzhong's defeat he was thirteen. Attendants tried to carry him away, but he refused: ‘My ruler and father are in danger. How can I flee death?’ Drawing his sword, he fought and died.”

After Xiahou Heng died, his son Xiahou Ji inherited and became General of the Household of the Tiger Guards. After Xiahou Ji died, his son Xiahou Bao inherited.

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Cao Ren, courtesy name Zixiao, was Taizu (Cao Cao)'s younger cousin.

In youth he liked archery, riding, and hunting. When heroes raised armies, he secretly gathered over one thousand young men and moved between the Huai and Si. Joining Taizu (Cao Cao) as Major of a Separate Command and Acting Colonel Encouraging the Vanguard, he took many heads and captives in the defeat of Yuan Shu. On the Xu Province campaign he commanded cavalry as vanguard, separately defeated Tao Qian's general Lü You, and rejoined the main army at Pengcheng for another great victory. During attacks on Fei, Hua, Jimo, and Kaiyang, he defeated Tao Qian's relief forces with cavalry. On the campaign against Lü Bu he captured Gouyang and its general Liu He alive. After Taizu (Cao Cao) pacified the Yellow Turbans and received the emperor at Xu, Cao Ren's repeated achievements earned the administration of Guangyang. Valuing his courage and strategy, Taizu (Cao Cao) kept him from the commandery and used him as Consultant commanding cavalry. During the campaign against Zhang Xiu he raided nearby counties and captured over three thousand men and women. When Zhang Xiu pursued the retreating main army, its men lost heart, but Cao Ren vigorously encouraged them. Taizu (Cao Cao) admired this, and they defeated Zhang Xiu.

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During the prolonged Guandu confrontation, Yuan Shao sent Liu Bei through Yin-Qiang and neighboring counties [㶏彊, the written place-name here], many of which joined him. Officials and people south of Xu grew uneasy, worrying Taizu (Cao Cao). Cao Ren said, “They know our main army faces immediate danger and cannot help. Faced with Liu Bei's strong force, rebellion is understandable. But he has only just taken command of Yuan Shao's men and cannot employ them effectively. We can defeat him.” Taizu (Cao Cao) sent him with cavalry, and he routed Liu Bei and recovered all the rebellious counties. Yuan Shao sent Han Xun to raid the western route, but Cao Ren defeated him at Jiluo Mountain. Yuan Shao thereafter dared send no further detachments. Cao Ren also joined Shi Huan in raiding Yuan Shao's carts and burning grain.

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After the north was settled, Cao Ren joined the siege of Huguan. Taizu (Cao Cao) ordered that everyone be killed when it fell. Months passed without success. Cao Ren said, “A besieged city must be shown a way to live. By announcing certain death, you make everyone defend himself. Its walls are strong and its grain abundant. Assault costs soldiers; waiting costs time. Keeping an army beneath a strong city against men certain they must die is no good plan.” Taizu (Cao Cao) accepted, and the city surrendered. Cao Ren's accumulated achievements earned the marquisate of Duting.

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After joining Jing Province's pacification, Cao Ren became Acting General Conquering the South and remained at Jiangling against Wu general Zhou Yu. Zhou Yu approached with tens of thousands; several thousand vanguard troops arrived first. From the walls Cao Ren recruited three hundred men and sent Niu Jin to challenge them. Outnumbered, Niu Jin was surrounded. Chief Clerk Chen Jiao watched from the wall as his men neared destruction, and the attendants turned pale. Fired with resolve, Cao Ren demanded his horse. Chen Jiao and the others held him back: “The enemy is too strong. Losing a few hundred men is better than risking yourself!” Without answering, Cao Ren donned armor and rode out with several dozen picked men. At a ditch more than one hundred paces from the enemy, Chen Jiao thought he would stop to lend support from a distance. Instead he crossed straight into the encirclement and freed Niu Jin. With some men still trapped, he charged back and rescued them, losing only a few. The enemy withdrew. Chen Jiao and the others, initially terrified, exclaimed on his return, “The general is truly a man of Heaven!” His army admired his courage, and Taizu (Cao Cao) advanced him to Marquis of Anping Village.

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Against Ma Chao, Cao Ren acted as General Pacifying the West, supervising the generals at Tong Pass and defeating him south of the Wei. When Su Bo and Tian Yin rebelled, he became Acting General of Valiant Cavalry over seven armies and defeated them. Again Acting General Conquering the South, with credentials, he camped at Fan to secure Jing Province. Hou Yin rebelled at Wan, gathering thousands from neighboring counties. Cao Ren captured and beheaded him, returned to Fan, and received formal appointment as General Conquering the South. Guan Yu attacked Fan while the Han River flooded. Yu Jin's seven armies were overwhelmed and Yu Jin surrendered. Cao Ren held the city with several thousand men; only a few wall-planks remained above water. Guan Yu approached in boats and surrounded it in several rings. Contact was cut, food nearly gone, and relief absent. Cao Ren urged his officers and men to face death, and they remained steadfast. Xu Huang arrived as the water subsided, attacking from outside. Cao Ren broke the encirclement, and Guan Yu withdrew.

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Undisciplined in youth, Cao Ren became strict and law-abiding as a mature commander, keeping regulations beside him and acting by them. When Marquis of Yanling Cao Zhang campaigned north against the Wuhuan, Emperor Wen (Cao Pi), then crown prince, wrote, “Should not a general obey the law like the General Conquering the South (Cao Ren)?” Upon succeeding as king, he made Cao Ren General of Chariots and Cavalry over military affairs in Jing, Yang, and Yi provinces, advancing him to Marquis of Chen with two thousand additional households, making thirty-five hundred. His father Cao Chi received the posthumous title Marquis Mu of Chen (Cao Chi), with ten households to guard his tomb. Recalled to Wan, Cao Ren was ordered against Sun Quan's general Chen Shao at Xiangyang. He and Xu Huang defeated Chen Shao and entered the city. He had Gao Qian and other generals move the recently submitted people south of the Han to its northern bank. Emperor Wen (Cao Pi) sent an envoy to appoint him General-in-Chief there, then ordered him to Linying and promoted him to Grand Marshal. He again supervised armies at Wujiang, then returned to Hefei. He died in Huangchu 4, with the posthumous title Marquis Zhong (Cao Ren) <Loyal Marquis>.

His son Cao Tai inherited, rose to General Garrisoning the East with credentials, and became Marquis of Ningling. After Cao Tai died, his son Cao Chu inherited. Cao Tai's younger brothers Cao Kai and Cao Fan also received ranked marquisates. Niu Jin rose to General of the Rear.

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Cao Ren's younger brother Cao Chun—

—initially served as Consultant participating in the Minister of Works' military affairs and commanded the Tiger and Leopard Cavalry at Nanpi. Yuan Tan came out to fight, causing heavy losses. Taizu (Cao Cao) wanted to ease the attack, but Cao Chun said, “We have come a thousand li. Failure to advance costs victory; retreat costs authority. Deep in enemy territory, we cannot remain long. Their victory makes them arrogant; our losses make us wary. The wary can defeat the arrogant.” Taizu (Cao Cao) intensified the assault and defeated Yuan Tan, whose head was taken by Cao Chun's cavalry. On the northern campaign against the three commanderies, his cavalry captured Chanyu Tadun. His service earned him Marquis of Gaoling Village with three hundred households. In Jing Province he pursued Liu Bei at Changban, capturing his two daughters and baggage and collecting scattered soldiers. He advanced to receive Jiangling's surrender and returned with Taizu (Cao Cao) to Qiao. He died in Jian'an 15. Upon accession Emperor Wen (Cao Pi) granted the posthumous title Marquis Wei (Cao Chun) <a title honoring martial authority>.

His son Cao Yan inherited and rose to General Commanding the Army. During Zhengyuan he became Marquis of Pingle Township. After his death his son Cao Liang inherited.

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Cao Hong, courtesy name Zilian, was Taizu (Cao Cao)'s younger cousin.

When Taizu (Cao Cao) raised a loyal army against Dong Zhuo, Xu Rong defeated him at Xingyang. Losing his horse, he faced close pursuit. Cao Hong dismounted and offered his own. Taizu (Cao Cao) declined, but Cao Hong said, “The realm can do without Cao Hong; it cannot do without you.” He followed on foot to the Bian River. Unable to ford its depth, he searched along it, found a boat, and crossed with Taizu (Cao Cao), fleeing to Qiao. Inspector of Yang Province Chen Wen was his old friend. Taking over one thousand household troops to him, Cao Hong recruited two thousand elite armored men from Lujiang and several thousand more in Danyang, rejoining Taizu (Cao Cao) at Longkang. During the Xu campaign Zhang Miao rebelled in Yan and welcomed Lü Bu. Amid great famine Cao Hong led the vanguard, secured Dongping and Fan, and gathered grain for the army. Taizu (Cao Cao) defeated Zhang Miao and Lü Bu at Puyang. After Lü Bu fled, Cao Hong occupied Dong'e and captured more than ten counties, including Jiyin, Shanyang, Zhongmou, Yangwu, Jing, and Mi. For accumulated services he became Colonel Soaring Like an Eagle and then General of the Household Displaying Martial Might. After the emperor settled at Xu he became Grand Master of Remonstrance. In a separate campaign against Liu Biao, he defeated subordinate generals at Wuyang, Yinye, Duyang, and Bowang, becoming General Encouraging the Vanguard and Marquis of Guoming Village. Repeated campaigns brought appointment as General of Overall Protection. Upon Emperor Wen (Cao Pi)'s accession he became General of the Guards, then General of Agile Cavalry, advancing to Marquis of Yewang with one thousand additional households, twenty-one hundred in all, and the special honorary rank Tejin. Later his fief moved to Duyang.

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Cao Hong was wealthy but miserly. Emperor Wen (Cao Pi) had disliked him since a youthful loan request was not satisfied. Using a retainer's offense, he imprisoned Cao Hong for execution. All the ministers' pleas failed. Empress Dowager Bian (Lady Bian) told Empress Guo (Guo Nüwang), “If Cao Hong dies today, I shall order the emperor to depose you tomorrow.” Repeated tearful pleas secured his life, but he lost office, rank, and fief.

CommentaryThe Wei lüe says: When Emperor Wen (Cao Pi) arrested Cao Hong, Cao Zhen pleaded, “If he is executed, he will think I slandered him.” The emperor replied, “I deal with him myself. What concern is it of yours?” Empress Dowager Bian (Lady Bian) angrily rebuked the emperor: “Without Zilian [Cao Hong] between Liang and Pei, there would be no present day.” An edict released him but confiscated his property. The empress dowager protested again, and it was returned. Earlier, as Minister of Works, Taizu (Cao Cao) set an example in annual assessments by having his home county value his property. The Magistrate of Qiao assessed Cao Hong's wealth equal to Taizu (Cao Cao)'s. Taizu (Cao Cao) said, “How could my household be as rich as Zilian [Cao Hong]'s?” As crown prince, Emperor Wen (Cao Pi) once requested one hundred bolts of silk from Cao Hong and was dissatisfied. Charged with an offense, Cao Hong expected death. After pardon he rejoiced and memorialized: “In youth I failed to follow the Way and offended human relations; in maturity I undeservedly occupied office yet received indulgence. Without restraint or contentment, I possess a wolf's insatiability. Old age and confusion doubled my greed and brought me against the state's net. My crimes approach the three thousand punishments and admit no pardon. I should have suffered execution and exposure in the marketplace, yet Heaven's favor has restored life to my bones and flesh. Looking upward, I am ashamed before sun and spirits; reflecting on my faults, I tremble with remorse. Unable even to hang myself, I humbly approach the palace gate with a face smeared in submission and offer this account.”

Cao Hong had served the former emperor, and many resented his treatment. After Emperor Ming (Cao Rui)'s accession, he became General of the Rear and Marquis of Lecheng with one thousand households and Tejin rank, then again General of Agile Cavalry. He died in Taihe 6, receiving the posthumous title Marquis Gong (Cao Hong) <Respectful Marquis>. His son Cao Fu inherited. Earlier Taizu (Cao Cao) detached households from his fief to make his son Cao Zhen [震, distinct from 曹真] a ranked marquis. Cao Hong's senior clansman Cao Yu was careful and reverent, rising to General of the Guards and a ranked marquisate.

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Cao Xiu, courtesy name Wenlie, was a clansman of Taizu (Cao Cao)'s son's generation. During the disorder his relatives scattered from their homeland. Orphaned in his teens, he and one companion carried his father's remains to a temporary burial, then took his aged mother across the Yangtze to Wu.

Hearing of Taizu (Cao Cao)'s rising, he changed his name, traveled through Jing Province, and returned north by secret routes. Taizu (Cao Cao) said, “This is our family's thousand-li colt,” and housed him with Emperor Wen (Cao Pi), treating him as a son. He regularly campaigned and commanded the Tiger and Leopard Cavalry as palace guards. When Liu Bei stationed Wu Lan at Xiabian, Taizu (Cao Cao) sent Cao Hong against him with Cao Xiu as Cavalry Commandant and military adviser. “Though nominally an adviser, you are really the commander,” he told him. Cao Hong accordingly entrusted affairs to Cao Xiu. Liu Bei posted Zhang Fei at Gu Mountain to cut their rear. Amid uncertainty, Cao Xiu said, “If he truly meant to cut our road, he would conceal his troops. Announcing it first shows he cannot do it. Strike Wu Lan before his force gathers; once he falls, Zhang Fei will leave.” Cao Hong agreed and defeated Wu Lan; Zhang Fei indeed withdrew. After Taizu (Cao Cao) evacuated Hanzhong, the armies returned to Chang'an and Cao Xiu became Central Commander of the Army. Upon Emperor Wen (Cao Pi)'s succession as king, he became General Commanding the Army and Marquis of Dongyang Village. After Xiahou Dun's death he became General Garrisoning the South with credentials, supervising the armies. The emperor personally saw him off, leaving his carriage to clasp his hand. When Sun Quan stationed a general at Liyang, Cao Xiu defeated him and sent a detachment across the river to burn several thousand households in the Wuhu camps. He became General Conquering the East, concurrent Inspector of Yang Province, and Marquis of Anyang Township.

During the campaign against Sun Quan, Cao Xiu became General-in-Chief Conquering the East with a yellow battle-axe, commanding Zhang Liao and over twenty provincial and commandery armies. He defeated Lü Fan and others at Dongpu and became Governor of Yang Province. Emperor Ming (Cao Rui) advanced him to Marquis of Changping. He defeated and beheaded Wu general Shen De at Wan. Han Zong, Di Dan, and other Wu generals successively surrendered to him. Four hundred additional households brought his total to twenty-five hundred. He became Grand Marshal while retaining Yang Province's military command. In Taihe 2 the emperor attacked Wu by two routes: Sima Xuanwang (Sima Yi) advanced down the Han, and Cao Xiu led the other armies toward Xunyang [休督 is supplied in brackets in the Chinese]. An enemy general feigned surrender. Cao Xiu advanced deeply, fought unsuccessfully, and withdrew to Shiting. A night alarm disordered his army, which abandoned much equipment and baggage. He memorialized his fault. The emperor sent Colonel of the Encamped Cavalry Yang Ji to console him and increased his honors and gifts. Cao Xiu then developed a carbuncle on his back and died, receiving the posthumous title Marquis Zhuang (Cao Xiu) <a title honoring martial vigor>. His son Cao Zhao inherited.

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Cao Zhao possessed contemporary talent and capacity and served as Cavalier Attendant-in-Ordinary and Colonel of the Encamped Cavalry. During Emperor Ming (Cao Rui)'s final illness he was to receive the succession charge with King of Yan (Cao Yu) and others. The emperor soon changed his intention and ordered him home as a marquis. He died during Zhengshi and was posthumously made General of the Guards. His son Cao Xing inherited. Earlier Emperor Wen (Cao Pi) detached three hundred households from Cao Xiu's fief to enfeoff Cao Zhao's younger brother Cao Zuan, who later became General Destroying Wu and was posthumously honored as General of the Front.

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Cao Zhen, courtesy name Zidan, was a clansman of Taizu (Cao Cao)'s son's generation. When Taizu (Cao Cao) raised troops, Cao Zhen's father Cao Shao recruited followers and was killed by provincial or commandery authorities.

Pitying the orphan, Taizu (Cao Cao) raised Cao Zhen with his own sons and housed him with Emperor Wen (Cao Pi). Once pursued by a tiger while hunting, he turned and shot it dead. Admiring his fierce courage, Taizu (Cao Cao) gave him the Tiger and Leopard Cavalry. He captured the Lingqiu rebels and became Marquis of Lingshou Village. As lieutenant general he defeated a subordinate of Liu Bei at Xiabian and became General of the Central Stronghold. At Chang'an he concurrently served as Central Commander of the Army. Xiahou Yuan had died at Yangping, worrying Taizu (Cao Cao), who appointed Cao Zhen Protector of the Army Conquering Shu. He supervised Xu Huang and others in defeating Liu Bei's general Gao Xiang there. Taizu (Cao Cao) personally entered Hanzhong and withdrew the armies, sending Cao Zhen to Wudu to bring back Cao Hong and the others to Chencang. Upon Emperor Wen (Cao Pi)'s succession as king, Cao Zhen became General Garrisoning the West with credentials over Yong and Liang provinces, advancing for accumulated service to Marquis of Dong Township. When Zhang Jin and others rebelled at Jiuquan, he sent Fei Yao to defeat and kill them. Returning to the capital in Huangchu 3, he became General-in-Chief of the Upper Army over military affairs within and without, with credentials and battle-axe. With Xiahou Shang and others he attacked Sun Quan and defeated the Niuzhu garrison. He became General-in-Chief of the Central Army and concurrently Attendant within the Palace. In the seventh year Emperor Wen (Cao Pi)'s final edict entrusted him, Chen Qun, Sima Xuanwang (Sima Yi), and others with government. Emperor Ming (Cao Rui) advanced him to Marquis of Shaoling.

He became General-in-Chief.

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Zhuge Liang besieged Qishan, and Nan'an, Tianshui, and Anding rebelled in response. The emperor sent Cao Zhen to command at Mei and Zhang He to defeat Ma Su. At Anding, Yang Tiao and others seized officials and people and held Yuezhi City. Cao Zhen besieged them. Yang Tiao said, “The General-in-Chief has come himself. I wished to surrender early,” and came out bound. All three commanderies were pacified. Predicting that Zhuge Liang, chastened at Qishan, would next use Chencang, Cao Zhen had Hao Zhao and Wang Sheng strengthen its defenses. Zhuge Liang indeed besieged it the next spring and failed. Cao Zhen's fief increased to twenty-nine hundred households. In the fourth year he attended court at Luoyang, became Grand Marshal, and could enter the hall with sword and shoes and without hastening his steps. He proposed attacking Shu by several simultaneous routes because of its repeated border incursions. The emperor agreed and personally saw him off. Cao Zhen left Chang'an in the eighth month and moved south through Ziwu; Sima Xuanwang (Sima Yi) advanced up the Han toward a meeting at Nanzheng. Other armies took the Xie Valley or entered from Wuwei [武威, the route-name written here]. Heavy rain lasted over thirty days and broke some plank roads, and an edict recalled the armies.

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In youth Cao Zhen served Taizu (Cao Cao) alongside his clansman Cao Zun and fellow villager Zhu Zan. Both died early. Pitying them, he requested part of his fief for their sons. An edict declared, “The Grand Marshal shows Shuxiang's kindness to orphans and Yan Ying's fidelity to old friendship. A gentleman completes others' good intentions. Let their sons receive one hundred households each as Marquises within the Passes.” On campaign Cao Zhen shared soldiers' hardships, supplementing insufficient rewards from his own wealth. They gladly served him. Returning ill to Luoyang, he received the emperor's personal visit. He died with the posthumous title Marquis Yuan (Cao Zhen), and his son Cao Shuang inherited. Recalling his service, the emperor declared: “The Grand Marshal practiced loyalty and supported the founding mandate under our two ancestors (Cao Cao and Cao Pi). Within, he did not rely on kinship's favor; without, he did not slight poor scholars. He preserved his position amid fullness and practiced humble diligence. Enfeoff all five sons, Cao Xi, Cao Xun, Cao Ze, Cao Yan, and Cao Ai, as ranked marquises.” Earlier Emperor Wen (Cao Pi) detached two hundred households to enfeoff his younger brother Cao Bin.

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Cao Shuang, courtesy name Zhaobo, was regarded as careful and dignified among the imperial kin while young. Emperor Ming (Cao Rui) cherished him as crown prince. After accession he appointed him Cavalier Attendant Gentleman; Cao Shuang rose to Colonel of the City Gates, Cavalier Attendant-in-Ordinary, and General of the Martial Guards, enjoying exceptional favor. During his final illness the emperor summoned him to the bedchamber and made him General-in-Chief with credentials and battle-axe, supervising military affairs within and without and overseeing the Secretariat. With Grand Commandant Sima Xuanwang (Sima Yi), he received the final edict to assist the young ruler. Emperor Ming (Cao Rui) died and King of Qi (Cao Fang) ascended. Cao Shuang became Palace Attendant and Marquis of Wu'an with twelve thousand households, entitled to sword and shoes in the hall, unhurried entry, and omission of his personal name when his bow was announced. Ding Mi devised a plan by which Cao Shuang asked the emperor to make Sima Xuanwang (Sima Yi) Grand Tutor, outwardly honoring him but ensuring Secretariat reports first passed through Cao Shuang, who could determine their importance.

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CommentaryThe Wei shu says: Cao Shuang had his younger brother Cao Xi draft a memorial: “My late father Cao Zhen served three reigns, as chief minister within and high commander without. Because I inherited his kinship connection, the former emperor advanced me to command the palace troops. I had neither accumulated loyalty nor the modest public service praised in the ode Gaoyang. During his illness I hurried to attend him and taste his medicine, but my sincerity produced no miraculous recovery. Undeservedly I received the final edict with Grand Commandant Sima Yi, feeling shame and fear beyond expression. I have heard that Shun placed Hou Ji and Xie first among the worthy, and Tang honored Yi Yin and Lü [呂, the name in this allusion is uncertain]. Careful selection, recognizing superior and inferior, is the great principle of assisting the age and governing the people, an enduring rule for rewarding merit. I am empty and unenlightened, yet head the court. Ashamed at this unwarranted advancement, I dare offer my sincere thoughts. The realm universally honors three things: virtue, rank, and age. Sima Yi possesses lofty discernment and uprightness, holding high office with a reputation that steadies the people and righteousness that leads subordinates: first. He embraces great strategy, excels in civil and military affairs, and has repeatedly won campaigns acknowledged near and far: second. Returning from ten thousand li, he personally received the final edict and supports the royal house, the focus of all within and without: third. Advanced in years, he orders the state and knows government thoroughly. His virtue exceeds Ji Fu and Fan Zhong, his achievements Fang Shu and Shao Hu. He combines all these qualities. If I hold an empty title above him, the realm will think kinship has gained me private favor and that I know advancement but not retreat. Your Majesty is precociously discerning and virtuous. If you examine my words, appoint Sima Yi Grand Tutor and Grand Marshal. This will show your discernment in advancing worth, display his civil and military merit, and spare me public criticism.” The emperor had Secretariat Supervisor Liu Fang and Director Sun Zi draft an edict: “Wu Han assisted Guangwu (Liu Xiu), conquering the four quarters as Grand Marshal, and remains renowned. Our Grand Commandant is upright and his achievements surpass the realm. The former emperor repeatedly intended to change his office, but those who had previously changed it did not live long afterward, so he delayed. The General-in-Chief's recommendation of him as Grand Marshal accords with that intention and displays humility, respect for virtue and merit, proper ranks, and seniority. Even Ji Dan and Ji Shi, honoring Lü Wang as their master and willingly standing below him, could do no better. We greatly commend this. The former emperor knew a gentleman accepts Heaven and understands destiny, and petty doubts need not trouble him. Yet recalling the texts concerning Bairen and Peng's death [栢人彭亡; the precise allusions require further examination], he hesitated and left his intention unrealized. This shows his deep regard and affection for a great minister. Formerly King Cheng (Ji Song) established protectors and tutors; more recently Xianzong of Han (Liu Zhuang) appointed Deng Yu Grand Tutor, honoring outstanding men with an exalted position. Make the Grand Commandant Grand Tutor.”

Cao Shuang's younger brothers Cao Xi became Central Commander of the Army, Cao Xun General of the Martial Guards, and Cao Yan Cavalier Attendant-in-Ordinary and lecturer. The other brothers attended as marquises, entering the inner gates with unrivaled favor. He Yan, Deng Yang, and Li Sheng of Nanyang, Ding Mi of Pei, and Bi Gui of Dongping were renowned and eager for advancement. Emperor Ming (Cao Rui) had suppressed them for ostentatious superficiality, but Cao Shuang restored and trusted them. To establish his military reputation, Deng Yang and the others urged attacking Shu. He agreed despite Sima Xuanwang (Sima Yi)'s opposition. In Zhengshi 5 he went west to Chang'an, raised sixty or seventy thousand men, and entered Luo Valley. Guanzhong and the Di and Qiang could not supply the transport demands. Cattle, horses, mules, and donkeys died in great numbers, and Han and non-Han people wept along the roads. After several hundred li, mountains fortified by the enemy blocked advance. Military Adviser Yang Wei explained the position and urged prompt retreat to avoid defeat.

Deng Yang disputed with Yang Wei before Cao Shuang. Yang Wei said, “Deng Yang and Li Sheng will ruin state affairs. They deserve execution.” Displeased, Cao Shuang nevertheless withdrew.

CommentaryThe Han Jin chunqiu says: Sima Xuanwang (Sima Yi) told Xiahou Xuan, “The Spring and Autumn Annals holds men of great standing to grave responsibility. Emperor Wu (Cao Cao) twice entered Hanzhong and nearly suffered great defeat, as you know. The road at Xingping [興平, the written name here] is exceedingly dangerous and Shu already occupies it. Advance without securing battle and retreat with the route cut, and the army must perish. How will you bear responsibility?” Frightened, Xiahou Xuan informed Cao Shuang, who withdrew. Fei Yi advanced to hold the three ridges and intercept him. Cao Shuang fought bitterly for the dangerous ground and barely escaped. Almost all requisitioned transport animals died or were lost. Qiang and other non-Han peoples resented and lamented it, and the entire region west of the passes was exhausted.

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At first Cao Shuang, respecting Sima Xuanwang (Sima Yi)'s age and virtue, treated him as a father and dared not act alone. Once He Yan and the others gained office, they urged him not to entrust such power to another. He made He Yan, Deng Yang, and Ding Mi masters of writing, with He Yan responsible for selection; Bi Gui became Colonel Director of Retainers and Li Sheng Intendant of Henan. Affairs seldom passed through Sima Xuanwang (Sima Yi), who pleaded illness to avoid Cao Shuang.

He Yan's group monopolized government, appropriating several hundred qing of mulberry fields under the agricultural offices of Luoyang and Yewang and taking revenue lands for private estates. They used their power to seize government goods and demand favors from provincial authorities, whom none dared oppose. Long hostile to Commandant of Justice Lu Yu, they exaggerated a subordinate's minor offense into a legal case against him, seizing his seal and ribbon before reporting to the throne. Such was their tyranny. Cao Shuang's food, carriages, and robes rivaled the emperor's; palace-workshop treasures filled his house and women filled his rear quarters. He privately took seven or eight talented consorts of the former emperor, along with officers, craftsmen, musicians, and thirty-three sons and daughters of respectable families as entertainers [the grouping of these persons is not entirely clear]. Forging an edict, he sent fifty-seven talented consorts to the Ye terraces for the former emperor's ladies of Jieyu rank to train as performers. He took instruments from the imperial music office and restricted weapons from the arsenal. He built a sunken chamber with ornamented latticework around it, where he often feasted and made music with He Yan's group. Deeply worried, Cao Xi repeatedly remonstrated. He wrote three essays on how arrogance and indulgence bring ruin, directing them ostensibly to his younger brothers rather than openly to Cao Shuang. Cao Shuang knew the target and resented it. Sometimes, ignored, Cao Xi rose weeping. Sima Xuanwang (Sima Yi) secretly prepared against him. In winter of the ninth year Li Sheng, leaving as Inspector of Jing Province, visited him. Sima Xuanwang (Sima Yi) displayed a wasted body and claimed severe illness. Li Sheng failed to detect the deception.

CommentaryThe Wei mo zhuan says: Cao Shuang's group sent Li Sheng to take leave and inspect Sima Xuanwang (Sima Yi). Li Sheng said, “Without special service, I have undeservedly received favor and am to govern my home province. I came to take leave at your gate and unexpectedly received an audience.” Sima Xuanwang (Sima Yi) had two maids attend him. They held his clothing, which slipped down. He pointed at his mouth for drink. Offered gruel, he held the cup but spilled it over his chest. Li Sheng wept in pity: “The sovereign is young and the realm relies on you. People thought only that your old wind illness had returned. How could your condition have become this?” Slowly, barely sustaining his breath, Sima Xuanwang (Sima Yi) said, “Old and gravely ill, I may die at any moment. You are going to Bing Province, near the non-Han peoples. Take care. I fear we shall not meet again.” Li Sheng replied, “I return to my home province, not Bing.” He again feigned confusion: “When you reach Bing, take care of yourself!” Li Sheng repeated, “Jing Province, not Bing.” Appearing to understand faintly, he said, “Old age has confused my mind. I did not grasp your words. Returning as inspector of your home province, you possess great virtue and vigor: achieve merit. We must part, and as my strength fades we shall not meet again. I want to exert myself to offer a small farewell feast, parting in life and death. Let my sons Sima Shi and Sima Zhao become your friends; do not abandon them. Fulfill this humble wish.” He choked with tears. Li Sheng sighed: “I shall obey and await your command.” On leaving, he told Cao Shuang's group, “The Grand Tutor's words are confused. His mouth cannot manage the cup, and he mistakes south for north. He said I was going to Bing, and I explained Jing repeatedly. Occasionally he recognized me and understood. He also wants to offer a farewell feast. We should wait rather than leave.” Again weeping, he said, “His illness cannot be cured. It is heartbreaking.”

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In the first month of the tenth year, the emperor visited Gaoping Mausoleum, accompanied by Cao Shuang and all his brothers.

Sima Xuanwang (Sima Yi) organized troops, seized the arsenal, and camped at the Luo River's floating bridge. He submitted a memorial against Cao Shuang: “When I returned from Liaodong, the former emperor summoned Your Majesty, the King of Qin (Cao Xun [曹詢]), and me onto his bed, grasping my arm and earnestly entrusting the future. I said, ‘The two ancestors (Cao Cao and Cao Pi) also entrusted their successors to me, as Your Majesty has seen. Have no anxiety. If anything goes amiss, I shall die fulfilling this command.’ Prefect of the Yellow Gates Dong Ji and the consorts attending his illness all heard it. Now General-in-Chief Cao Shuang has abandoned that charge and ruined state institutions. Within he usurps imperial usages; without he monopolizes authority. He disrupts military camps and controls all guard troops, placing intimates in key offices. Old palace guards are expelled and new men installed for private schemes. His roots spread and his insolence grows. He also employs eunuch Zhang Dang as supervisor, dealing privately with him to watch the sovereign and covet the throne, divide the two palaces, and harm imperial kin. The realm is alarmed; Your Majesty occupies only a borrowed seat. How could this bring lasting security? It is not what the former emperor intended when he summoned us to his bed. Old and decayed though I am, dare I forget my pledge? Zhao Gao's unrestrained will destroyed Qin; early action against the Lü and Huo families preserved Han. These are Your Majesty's warnings and the occasion to fulfill my charge. Grand Commandant Jiang Ji and Director of the Masters of Writing Sima Fu agree that Cao Shuang has no regard for his sovereign and that his brothers should not command the guards. We memorialized Yongning Palace, and the empress dowager ordered us to act. I have instructed the responsible offices and Prefect of the Yellow Gates to remove the officers and soldiers of Cao Shuang, Cao Xi, and Cao Xun [曹訓], sending them home as marquises. They must not delay the imperial carriage; any who do will face military law. Despite illness, I have led troops to the Luo bridge to guard against emergencies.”

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Cao Shuang received the memorial but did not forward it to the emperor. Cornered, he did not know what to do.

Hearing of the coup, Grand Minister of Agriculture Huan Fan of Pei ignored the empress dowager's summons. Forging an edict, he opened Pingchang Gate, seized swords and halberds, took along a gate officer, and fled south to Cao Shuang. Sima Xuanwang (Sima Yi) said, “Huan Fan may devise plans, but Cao Shuang cannot use them.” Huan Fan urged taking the emperor to Xuchang and summoning outside armies. The brothers hesitated. He told Cao Xi, “Can your household now regain even poverty and low rank? Even a commoner with one hostage hopes to survive. You have the emperor and can command the realm. Who would fail to respond?” Cao Xi still refused. Palace Attendant Xu Yun and Master of Writing Chen Tai urged Cao Shuang promptly to acknowledge guilt. He sent them to Sima Xuanwang (Sima Yi), admitting guilt and requesting death, and forwarded the memorial to the emperor.

Cao Shuang and his brothers were dismissed and returned home as marquises.

CommentaryThe Wei mo zhuan says: Eight hundred Luoyang residents were mobilized to surround their residence under a commandant. Towers at its four corners watched every movement. Distressed and without plans, Cao Shuang took a pellet bow into the rear garden. A watcher shouted, “The former General-in-Chief moves southeast!” Returning to the hall, he discussed Sima Xuanwang (Sima Yi)'s unknown intentions with his brothers, then wrote: “This humble Cao Shuang is fearful and distressed, having brought disaster upon himself and expecting extermination. Household members sent for grain have not returned; for days we have lacked food. Please supply enough to sustain us.” Sima Xuanwang (Sima Yi) replied in apparent alarm, “I did not know you lacked grain and am deeply uneasy. I now send one hundred hu of rice, meat, dried meat, salt, fermented beans, and soybeans.” The delivery soon arrived. Failing to understand changing circumstances, the brothers rejoiced and believed they would not die.

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Earlier Zhang Dang had privately given Cao Shuang selected consorts named Zhang, He, and others. Suspected of wrongdoing, he was arrested and interrogated. He stated that Cao Shuang and He Yan's group secretly plotted rebellion, practiced military preparations, and intended to act in the third month. He Yan and the others were imprisoned. Ministers deliberated: “The Spring and Autumn Annals teaches that one must not even contemplate action against ruler or parent; such intention requires execution. Cao Shuang, an imperial kinsman favored for generations, personally received the former emperor's deathbed charge over the realm. Yet he concealed evil intent, abandoned that trust, and plotted for the throne with He Yan, Deng Yang, and Zhang Dang. Huan Fan joined the guilty: all committed great treason.” Cao Shuang, Cao Xi, Cao Xun, He Yan, Deng Yang, Ding Mi, Bi Gui, Li Sheng, Huan Fan, Zhang Dang, and the others were executed, their three degrees of kin exterminated. [The conspiracy allegations and legal judgment are those reported by this account.]

CommentaryThe Wei lüe says: Deng Yang, courtesy name Xuanmao, descended from Deng Yu. Renowned among scholars while young, under Emperor Ming (Cao Rui) he served as Secretariat Gentleman and Magistrate of Luoyang, was dismissed for an offense, then became General of the Household and Acting Secretariat Gentleman. He and Li Sheng belonged to a fashionable circle. When their ostentatious activities were exposed, he was expelled and no longer employed. Early in Zhengshi he became Administrator of Yingchuan, then the General-in-Chief's chief clerk, Palace Attendant, and Master of Writing. Greedy for wealth, while serving at court he promised Zang Ai high office; Zang Ai gave him his father's concubine. The capital said, “Deng Xuanmao [Deng Yang] trades office for women.” Many recommendations were similar. He Yan's unsuitable appointments owed much to Deng Yang's unfairness and disloyalty, and they shared the punishment: friendship with unsuitable men was the cause. The Wei lüe says: Ding Mi's courtesy name was Yanjing. His father Ding Fei, courtesy name Wenhou, followed Taizu (Cao Cao), who indulged him as a fellow countryman. Greedy, he often made unlawful requests but was pardoned. As Colonel Directing the Army he supervised affairs within and without, and his recommendations were usually adopted. Late in Jian'an he followed Taizu (Cao Cao) against Wu. His own cattle were thin, so he secretly exchanged them for government cattle. Reported, he was imprisoned and dismissed. Later Taizu (Cao Cao) asked, “Wenhou [Ding Fei], where are your seal and ribbon?” Knowing this was mockery, he replied, “I exchanged them for cakes.” Taizu (Cao Cao) laughed and told his attendants, “Clerk Mao of the Eastern Office [Mao Jie] repeatedly reports this fellow and wants severe punishment. I know he is dishonest, but have my reasons. Keeping him is like keeping a thieving dog that catches rats well: its small thefts are outweighed by protecting our stores.” He restored Ding Fei and listened to him as before. Several years later Ding Fei died of illness. Ding Mi avoided socializing while young and read widely. Resolute and composed, he possessed talent and strategy. During Taihe, while staying at Ye, he borrowed an empty house. A prince also wanted to borrow it and entered without knowing Ding Mi already had it. Seeing him, Ding Mi remained lying with crossed legs and told his servant, “Who is this? Hurry and order him away.” Angry at the insult, the prince reported him. Emperor Ming (Cao Rui) imprisoned him at Ye but released him as a meritorious minister's son. Later, hearing he resembled his father, he appointed him Gentleman for Expenditure Administration. Cao Shuang, then General of the Martial Guards and an old friend, repeatedly recommended him for high responsibility. After the emperor died and Cao Shuang became regent, Ding Mi became Cavalier Attendant-in-Ordinary and then Master of Writing. Outwardly casual, he was inwardly jealous. His repeated criticisms obstructed Secretariat business. He slighted dignitaries and looked down even on fellow ministers He Yan and Deng Yang, yielding only to Cao Shuang's power. Cao Shuang respected him and followed everything he said. A satirical writing declared, “Three dogs in the Secretariat: two snarl beyond restraint; one leans on Mo and forms an abscess sack.” The dogs were He Yan, Deng Yang, and Ding Mi; Mo was Cao Shuang's childhood name. All wanted to bite, but Ding Mi most of all. Sending Empress Dowager Guo (Lady Guo, Cao Rui's consort) to another palace, sending the King of Le'an [personal identity and the syntax of 王使 are uncertain here] north to Ye, and sending Wen Qin back to Huainan were all Ding Mi's plans. Sima Xuanwang (Sima Yi) consequently hated him deeply. Bi Gui's courtesy name was Zhaoxian. His father, courtesy name Zili, was Colonel for Agricultural Administration during Jian'an. Renowned in youth for ability, Bi Gui belonged to Emperor Ming (Cao Rui)'s literary staff as crown prince. Late in Huangchu he became a chief clerk; upon accession the emperor made him Gentleman of the Yellow Gates. His son married a princess and his household became rich. As Inspector of Bing Province he gained a reputation for arrogance. When mixed frontier peoples attacked officials and residents, he campaigned against the Xianbei leader Kebineng and lost. Central Protector of the Army Jiang Ji memorialized: “Let past errors pass, but a repetition would be dangerous. People's talents have strengths and weaknesses and cannot be forced into completeness. Bi Gui's culture and aspirations make him a fine vessel. Transfer him from Bing to another province or a high court office, preserving his virtue and benefiting affairs. This concerns security and danger; let Your Majesty consider it.” During Zhengshi he became Central Protector of the Army, then Palace Attendant, Master of Writing, and Colonel Director of Retainers. An old friend of Cao Shuang, he was often heeded. Li Sheng, courtesy name Gongzhao, was the son of Li Xiu, courtesy name Zilang, a resourceful man. When Zhang Lu was General Garrisoning the North, Li Xiu served as his major at Nanzheng. Sweet dew appeared in Hanzhong; seeing Zhang Lu's tens of thousands of elite troops and strong defenses, Li Xiu argued that Red's influence had long declined and Yellow's house should rise, urging him to assume the imperial title. Zhang Lu refused. After Zhang Lu's defeat, Taizu (Cao Cao) rewarded Li Xiu for urging submission, making him Marquis within the Passes and an unattached official among the mounted attendants at Ye. During Huangchu he governed Shangdang and Julu, then retired from the provinces through age and became Consultant. Li Sheng traveled in the capital while young, cultured and intelligent, and befriended Cao Shuang. Emperor Ming (Cao Rui) prohibited fashionable ostentation. Someone reported that Li Sheng's hall had four windows and eight approaches, each with a designated name or person [四䆫八達，各有主名; the precise arrangement is unclear]. He was arrested, but because the case implicated many others, he was pardoned and barred from office for years. After the emperor's death he became Magistrate of Luoyang. General Conquering the West Xiahou Xuan, another old friend, made him chief clerk. The Luo Valley expedition followed his proposal, angering Sima Xuanwang (Sima Yi). He later governed Xingyang [熒陽, the spelling here] and became Intendant of Henan, always performing his offices capably. After over a year as intendant, the canopy before his audience hall collapsed. During repairs a small timber sprang down and severed the head of a credential-receiving officer named Shi Hu. Ten days later Li Sheng became Inspector of Jing Province but fell before taking office. Huan Fan, courtesy name Yuanze, came from a prominent family. Late in Jian'an he entered the chancellor's office; during Yankang he became Left Supervisor of the Feathered Forest Guard. A literary man, he helped Wang Xiang and others compile the Huanglan. Under Emperor Ming (Cao Rui) he served as Central Commander of the Army and Master of Writing, then General Conquering the Enemy and General of the Household of the East, with credentials over Qing and Xu provinces at Xiapi. Quarreling over housing with Inspector of Xu Province Zheng Qi, he invoked his credentials to execute him. Zheng Qi reported him; found in the wrong, Huan Fan was dismissed. Later Inspector of Yan Province, he remained discontented. Hearing he might become Governor of Ji Province, subordinate to General Garrisoning the North Lü Zhao, whose original career standing was below his own, he told his wife Lady Zhongchang, “I would rather hold a ministry and kneel to the Three Excellencies than bow to Lü Zizhan [Lü Zhao].” She replied, “In the east you tried to execute Xu Province's inspector, and people said you were difficult to serve beneath. Now you disdain serving beneath Lü Zhao: you are difficult to serve above as well.” Angry that she struck the truth, he hit her abdomen with his sword's ring pommel. Pregnant, she miscarried and died. He ultimately pleaded illness and did not go to Ji Province. During Zhengshi he became Grand Minister of Agriculture. At the Secretariat he had been known for practical understanding, and in this office for frugal clarity. He excerpted miscellaneous Han shu affairs with his own judgments, calling it Shiyao lun. At a soil-altar gathering with Grand Commandant Jiang Ji and several ministers, he brought the work, expecting Jiang Ji to receive it openly. He showed it to those beside him, who passed it to Jiang Ji, but Jiang Ji refused to read it. Resentful, during another discussion he angrily said, “My ancestors lacked virtue; what were yours like?” Jiang Ji, though forceful, knew Huan Fan's stubbornness and merely glanced at him without answering; they dispersed. In Pei, Huan Fan's official precedence followed Cao Zhen's. As regent Cao Shuang particularly respected him among the Nine Ministers as a senior countryman, but was not especially close. When Sima Xuanwang (Sima Yi) raised troops and closed the gates, he summoned Huan Fan for his practical knowledge, intending him to direct the Central Army. Huan Fan wanted to comply, but his son urged going south to the emperor instead. After hesitation and further urging, he decided to leave despite his assistant and clerks' objections. At closed Pingchang Gate, its officer Si Fan, formerly recommended by him, heard him shout and display a tablet: “An imperial summons! Open quickly!” Si Fan asked to see the edict. Huan Fan rebuked him: “Were you not my former officer? How dare you?” The gate opened. Outside, he looked back: “The Grand Tutor plots rebellion. Come with me!” Unable to keep up on foot, Si Fan stepped aside. “Huan Fan met Cao Shuang southward and urged taking the emperor to Xuchang and summoning the realm. Cao Shuang hesitated; Cao Xi said nothing. Huan Fan told Cao Xi, ‘The situation is plain. Why have you read books if this is your response? Today your house falls!’ Neither answered. He continued, ‘Your separate camp is just south of the palace, and Luoyang's agricultural office outside the city can be summoned at will. Xuchang is only two nights away, with a separate arsenal sufficient for arms. Grain is the main concern, and I carry the Grand Minister of Agriculture's seal.’ The brothers remained silent. Between midnight and the fifth watch, Cao Shuang threw his sword down and told the attending ministers, ‘I judge that the Grand Tutor merely wants us to submit to him. I alone have failed to accord with people near and far.’ He asked the emperor to issue an edict dismissing him in answer to the empress dowager. Knowing that surrender would implicate him for urging resistance, Huan Fan cried, ‘This old man's clan dies today because of you brothers!’ After their dismissal the emperor returned, with Huan Fan ordered to follow. North of the Luo bridge he saw Sima Xuanwang (Sima Yi), dismounted, and knocked his head on the ground without speaking. Sima Xuanwang (Sima Yi) called, ‘Grand Master Huan (Huan Fan), why do this?’ After the emperor entered the palace, an edict restored him to office. He submitted thanks at the palace gate and awaited a reply. Meanwhile Si Fan reported to the Grand Herald and confessed Huan Fan's words at departure. Sima Xuanwang (Sima Yi) angrily asked, ‘What is the law for falsely accusing another of rebellion?’ The responsible officer answered, ‘The false accuser receives the accused offense's penalty.’ Huan Fan was arrested at the gate. As the guards pressed him roughly, he said, ‘Slowly. I too am a righteous man.’ He was sent to the Commandant of Justice.” The Shiyu says: Cao Shuang earlier dreamed of two tigers carrying the Thunder Lord, shaped like a two-sheng bowl, into his courtyard. Troubled, he consulted Deputy of the Spiritual Terrace Ma Xun, who said, “Military danger.” Returning home, Ma Xun told his wife, “He will perish through armed force within ten days.” The Han Jin chunqiu says: In winter of the ninth year Huangfu Mi of Anding dreamed he went to Luoyang and saw many carriages and horsemen emerging from an ancestral temple, presenting an object there and announcing, “General-in-Chief Cao Shuang has been executed.” On waking he told a fellow villager, who replied, “Do you want to dream like the man of Cao? There is no Gongsun Qiang at court. Cao Shuang's brothers command great armies and control the Secretariat. Who dares plot against them?” Huangfu Mi said, “He lacks Shu Zhenduo's plea. Lose Heaven's opportunity and unity dissolves; what reliance is strength? Yan Xian of Han held sovereign power through the empress dowager, yet nineteen eunuchs killed him in one day. How much more these brothers!” The Shiyu says: When Cao Shuang left, Major Lu Zhi stayed at headquarters. Hearing the emergency, he led camp cavalry through Jin Gate to join Cao Shuang. After Cao Shuang's execution he was promoted to Palace Assistant to the Censor-in-Chief. As Cao Shuang surrendered his seal and ribbon, Registrar Yang Zong warned, “You hold the sovereign and power. Will you abandon this to go to the execution ground?” He refused. Officials accused Yang Zong of encouraging rebellion, but Sima Xuanwang (Sima Yi) said, “Each serves his own lord,” pardoned him, and made him Secretariat Gentleman. Lu Zhi, courtesy name Shiying, was from Fufeng and later rose to Tejin and Grand Master of Splendid Happiness. Yang Zong, courtesy name Chubo, later became chief clerk to General Pacifying the East Sima Wenwang (Sima Zhao) <King Wen; a posthumous royal title>. I, Pei Songzhi, observe that Xiahou Zhan's inscription for Lu Zhi and Gan Bao's Jin ji instead say that after Cao Shuang's execution Sima Xuanwang (Sima Yi) made Lu Zhi Inspector of Bing Province and Yang Zong military adviser to the General Pacifying the East. This differs from the Shiyu.

During Jiaping, continuing the lines of meritorious ministers, the court enfeoffed Cao Zhen's clan grandson Cao Xi [熙, distinct from 曹羲] as Marquis of Xinchang Village with three hundred households to maintain Cao Zhen's succession.

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He Yan was He Jin's grandson. His mother Lady Yin became Taizu (Cao Cao)'s consort, and he grew up in the palace and married a princess. Renowned young for talent, he liked Laozi and Zhuangzi and wrote the Daode lun and several dozen essays and rhapsodies.

CommentaryHis courtesy name was Pingshu. The Wei lüe says: When Taizu (Cao Cao) was Minister of Works, he took He Yan's mother and adopted him. Qin Yilu's son Asu also lived with his mother in the household, and both were favored like natural sons. Asu was Qin Lang. Qin Lang was cautious, but He Yan was uninhibited and dressed like the heir apparent. Emperor Wen (Cao Pi) especially disliked him, always calling him “the adopted son” instead of his name. Married to a princess and fond of women, he held no responsible office during Huangchu. Under Emperor Ming (Cao Rui) he had some supernumerary appointments. Early in Zhengshi he accommodated himself to Cao Shuang, who employed his talents as Cavalier Attendant Gentleman, then Palace Attendant and Master of Writing. Marriage had already brought a marquisate, and his mother remained within the imperial household. Pleased with himself, he constantly applied white powder and admired his shadow while walking. Directing appointments, he promoted many old associates. The Wei mo zhuan says: His wife, Princess of Jinxiang (Lady Cao), was his younger half-sister by the same mother. A worthy woman, she told her mother, Grand Consort of Pei (Lady Du), “He Yan's evil grows daily. How can he preserve himself?” Her mother laughed, “Are you jealous of him?” Soon he died. His son was five or six. Sima Xuanwang (Sima Yi) sent men to seize him, but He Yan's mother hid him in the king's palace, slapped her own cheeks before the messengers, and begged for his life. They reported this. Sima Xuanwang (Sima Yi) had admired the princess's earlier foresight and, also for the King of Pei (Cao Lin)'s sake, spared the boy. The Wei shi chunqiu says: Xiahou Xuan, He Yan, and Sima Jingwang (Sima Shi) <King Jing; a posthumous royal title> were renowned contemporaries. He Yan said, “‘Profound enough to understand the realm's purposes’ describes Xiahou Taichu [Xiahou Xuan]. ‘Perceptive of incipient change, able to accomplish the realm's affairs’ describes Sima Ziyuan [Sima Shi]. As for ‘spiritual, swift without haste, arriving without movement,’ I have heard the words but not seen the man.” He apparently meant the spiritual description for himself. Initially Sima Xuanwang (Sima Yi) had him investigate Cao Shuang's case. Hoping for pardon, he pursued the associates fully. Sima Xuanwang (Sima Yi) said, “There are eight clans in all.” He listed seven, including Ding and Deng. “Not yet.” Desperate, he asked, “Do you mean me?” “Yes.” He was arrested. I, Pei Songzhi, observe: The Wei mo zhuan's claim that He Yan married his maternal half-sister is intolerable to respectable men, worse even than the King of Chu marrying his younger sister. Even from an established history it would scarcely be credible, much less this inferior book. The biographies of the princes state that the King of Pei (Cao Lin) was Lady Du's son. He Yan's mother was surnamed Yin. If the princess shared the King of Pei (Cao Lin)'s mother, how could she also share He Yan's? Huangfu Mi's Lienü zhuan says: Cao Shuang's younger cousin Wenshu married Lingnü, daughter of Xiahou Wenning of Qiao. Wenshu died young. After mourning, young and childless, she feared remarriage and cut off her hair as a pledge. When her family indeed wanted to remarry her, she cut off both ears. She usually depended on Cao Shuang's household. After Cao Shuang's execution and the destruction of the Cao families concerned, her uncle memorialized to dissolve the marriage connection and forcibly brought her home. Xiahou Wenning, then Chancellor of Liang, pitied her youth and steadfastness. Since no survivors of her husband's Cao line remained, he hoped her resolve might weaken and secretly sounded her out. Sighing and weeping, she said, “I have considered it; agreement is right.” Believing her, they relaxed their watch. She entered her room, cut off her nose, and lay beneath a quilt. When she did not answer her mother, the quilt was lifted to reveal blood across the bedding. The household rushed in, horrified and grieving. Someone said, “Human life is like dust on weak grass. Why suffer so? Your husband's house is entirely destroyed. For whom do you preserve this?” She replied, “The benevolent do not change principles with prosperity or decline; the righteous do not change hearts with survival or death. I intended fidelity while the Caos flourished. How could I abandon them in ruin? Even beasts would not do it; shall I?” Sima Xuanwang (Sima Yi) admired this and allowed her to adopt a boy as the Cao heir. Her reputation became renowned.

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Xiahou Shang, courtesy name Boren, was Xiahou Yuan's nephew. Emperor Wen (Cao Pi) was his close friend.

After Taizu (Cao Cao) settled Ji Province, Xiahou Shang served as army major commanding cavalry on campaign, then as literary officer to the General of the Household for All Purposes. Upon Wei's establishment he became Gentleman of the Yellow Gates. When non-Han peoples rebelled in Dai, he advised Marquis of Yanling Cao Zhang in pacifying it. After Taizu (Cao Cao) died at Luoyang, Xiahou Shang bore credentials and escorted the coffin to Ye. His services earned Marquis of Pingling Village, Cavalier Attendant-in-Ordinary, and Central Commander of the Army. Upon Emperor Wen (Cao Pi)'s accession his fief became Pingling Township, and he became General Conquering the South, concurrent Inspector of Jing Province, with credentials over southern military affairs. He proposed a surprise attack on Liu Bei's detachment at Shangyong, whose difficult mountain routes made it unwary. He defeated it and pacified three commanderies and nine counties, becoming General-in-Chief Conquering the South. Although Sun Quan professed submission, he increased preparations, and Sun Quan indeed became disloyal. In Huangchu 3 the emperor went to Wan and ordered him and Cao Zhen to besiege Jiangling. Zhuge Jin faced him across the river, entered an island, and divided his fleet along the stream. At night Xiahou Shang took many oil-treated boats and over ten thousand infantry and cavalry secretly across downstream, attacked Zhuge Jin's forces, burned vessels on both banks, and defeated them by land and water. Before the city fell, epidemic brought an order to withdraw. Six hundred additional households made nineteen hundred; he received a battle-axe and became governor. Jing Province was devastated, bordering non-Han peoples and separated from Wu by the Han, while many former residents lived south of the Yangtze. He opened a route from Shangyong more than seven hundred li westward, attracting mountain peoples; over five or six years several thousand households submitted. In the fifth year he became Marquis of Changling Township.

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Xiahou Shang favored a concubine above his principal wife, a Cao woman, so Emperor Wen (Cao Pi) sent men to strangle the concubine. Grief made him ill and distraught. Unable to bear missing her, he reopened her burial to look upon her. The emperor angrily said, “Du Xi had good reason to despise him.” Yet favor continued for this old servant. Gravely ill in the sixth year, he returned to the capital, where the emperor repeatedly visited, holding his hand and weeping. He died with the posthumous title Marquis Dao (Xiahou Shang) <Mourned Marquis>.

His son Xiahou Xuan inherited. Three hundred households were also detached to give his nephew Xiahou Feng the rank of Marquis within the Passes.

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Xiahou Xuan, courtesy name Taichu, was renowned while young and became Cavalier Gentleman of the Yellow Gates around twenty. Once in audience he sat beside Mao Zeng, the empress's younger brother, and visibly showed shame and displeasure. Emperor Ming (Cao Rui) resented this and demoted him to Supervisor of the Feathered Forest Guard. Early in Zhengshi Cao Shuang became regent. Xiahou Xuan was his paternal aunt's son. He rose to Cavalier Attendant-in-Ordinary and Central Protector of the Army.

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Grand Tutor Sima Xuanwang (Sima Yi) asked his views on current affairs. Xiahou Xuan proposed: “Assigning offices and employing men are the state's power. Selection therefore belongs to the central Secretariat: the superior's sphere. Filial conduct belongs to local communities, which judge its quality: the lower sphere. Clarifying instruction and scrutinizing appointments requires keeping these spheres distinct. If those above exceed their share, advancement loses its proper foundation and paths of influence-seeking open. If those below exceed theirs, Heaven-bestowed distinction becomes available through outside channels and power gains many doors. The first allows commoners to debate government authority; the second originates confusion. For years the provincial and commandery impartial assessors have evaluated fitness for office, yet endless disorder remains. Does this not arise from overlapping responsibilities that lose their essential purpose? Let assessors examine conduct and peer standing alone. Once comparable conduct is established, fitness for office can be known. One filial at home should be loyal in office; one humane toward his kin should understand government; one righteous in local judgments should be capable in responsibility. Assessors can establish these qualities without naming particular offices. Different levels of conduct and peer standing then clearly distinguish suitable classes of appointment. “Why should local assessors meddle in central selection while central officials transfer responsibility downward, creating mutual encroachment? The Secretariat should evaluate service. Each office has superiors who observe subordinates daily; none knows their work better. If neighborhood opinion arbitrarily decides appointments, administrators lose their role and everyone scrambles. How could customs become peaceful? The court is remote and beyond most people's hopes, but local intermediaries seem accessible. Who will not embellish himself to obtain advancement? Once such a route exists, cultivating oneself and one's household becomes inferior to self-promotion locally, which becomes inferior to seeking favor at provincial level. Opening that path and then blaming false appearances and abandonment of fundamentals achieves nothing, even if assessors face severe punishments. “Better let each fulfill his sphere. Office heads report their subordinates' abilities; the Secretariat combines these rankings with local gradings of conduct, comparing fairly. Assessors examine behavior, distinguish levels, and fix peer categories without manipulating promotion or demotion. The Secretariat coordinates selection; if its choices are confused, the responsible central office bears blame. If departmental rankings and assessors' comparisons lead by due order to an unsuitable appointment, the external evaluators bear responsibility. With inner and outer judgments checking one another and errors traceable, who can disguise the truth? Then minds will settle, affairs find order, customs quiet, and official talent be properly assessed.”

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He also proposed: “Ancient offices nourished the people and ordered their affairs, establishing rulers to shepherd them. Their direction should be unified and exclusive. Unity fixes responsibility and secures superiors and subordinates; exclusivity allows duties to be fulfilled without complication. Simplicity, effective service, and mutual security have never failed to produce good government. The ancient kings' myriad states cannot be fully reconstructed, but their boundaries and territorial responsibilities were not a system of overlapping restraints. The five ranks under Yin and Zhou differed in size and status, not in dual authorities governing the same subjects. Without unified command, duties fail; without fulfilled duties, business cannot be simple; without simplicity, people cannot be peaceful. Unrest then breeds wickedness and fraud. The former kings understood this and unified responsibility. “Qin abandoned the sages' Way, governing offices through self-interest and subordinates through suspicion. Fearing administrators' neglect, it set supervisors over them; fearing supervisors' collusion, it added inspectors. Administrators and supervisors burdened one another, inspectors watched inspectors, and different minds pursued different purposes. Han inherited this without correction, and rising Wei lacked time to address it. Though the five-rank system cannot quickly return, we can establish a unified framework. County chiefs already govern officials and people, yet commandery administrators are imposed above them and provincial inspectors above those. If commanderies only provide broad oversight, they duplicate provinces. Abolish commandery administrators and retain inspectors. Inspection remains, while tens of thousands of commandery clerks return to farming, reducing expense and increasing grain: first benefit. “Men governing large counties can serve as commandery administrators. Disputes arise from differing views: compliance brings peace, independence brings contention. A fine soup combines different ingredients, and levels of government should aid one another. Mere agreement is like a zither with only one note. Remove the overlapping tier and offices and business diminish: second benefit. Commandery officers inspect counties while shielding relatives, factions, and old associates. They can exploit public authority to obstruct any who fail to satisfy them, burdening the people. Combining the levels blocks that source of disorder: third benefit. “We inherit decline, a dwindling population, and few worthy men. Good commandery and county officials are scattered. Commanderies receive the counties' completed work, so the heavier burden lies below; yet the best officials fill commanderies first. Those closest to the people receive inferior personnel, though officials determine the people's lives. Combine the levels and more honest, able men become available for direct service, spreading good government and peace: fourth benefit. Let the head of a county of ten thousand households bear the title commandery administrator; above five thousand, commandant; below one thousand, magistrate as before [the proposal as transmitted leaves intermediate ranges unspecified]. Assess and promote them from magistrate upward, enlarging their jurisdictions with proven ability. Once the framework is settled, appointments follow order and achievement becomes clear: fifth benefit. Without commandery administrators, counties report directly and affairs avoid obstruction and delay. Though the Three Dynasties' customs may not be assured, simple unified government can approach them. Here lies convenience for the people and reduced expense.”

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He also proposed: “Refinement and simplicity alternate like the seasons. Rulers follow Heaven to order affairs, repairing prevailing defects. Excessive plainness needs ritual refinement; excessive luxury needs simplicity. We inherit the end of many reigns and Qin and Han's residue, with customs ever more ornate. Great reform should renew the people's expectations. Present regulations allow dukes and ranked marquises and officials of General-in-Chief's rank and above to wear patterned silks, gauzes, fine white silk, and gold and silver ornaments. Below them, mixed colors extend even to the lowly. Although ranks formally differ, court officials' dress can rival the sovereign's, and exalted colors reach the lower orders. How then can markets be prevented from selling luxuries, merchants from dealing in rarities, or artisans from making elaborate objects? “Correct the foundation by measuring ancient law and finding the right balance of refinement and simplicity. Carriages and dress should be plain. Prohibit decadent luxurious practices so court and official households no longer display brocade, mixed colors, or delicate curiosities. From highest to lowest show only modest differences of grade, without more than one or two perceptible degrees [勿使過一二之覺; the precise measure is uncertain]. Exceptional rewards for merit specially granted by the sovereign must be recorded with the authorities before use. Those above transform those below as wind bends grass. Once simplicity begins at court, excessive desires below will disappear.”

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Sima Xuanwang (Sima Yi) replied: “Careful appointments, removal of duplicate offices, and reform of dress are all excellent. The neighborhood should judge fundamental conduct, the court examine performance: broadly as you say. But inherited habits cannot suddenly change. Qin had no provincial inspectors, only commandery administrators and county chiefs. Han's inspectors initially enforced only the six articles: hence they traveled in relay carriages, their clerks were called attendants, and they had neither fixed headquarters nor fully constituted subordinate officials. Only later did they become established administrations. Jia Yi also worried about dress. Although Emperor Wen of Han (Liu Heng) himself wore plain dark silk, he could not make all ranks follow his intention. These three reforms may have to await worthy and capable men.”

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Xiahou Xuan wrote again: “Although Emperor Wen of Han (Liu Heng) wore plain dark silk, he did not correct the regulations. People within and without wore usurped grades, and favorites received unlimited gifts. This appears a reputation established in his own person rather than a firm intention to order the system. You, an exceptional minister of this age, pursue antiquity and seek the highest government. Restrain the superficial and correct the foundation: once regulations are set above, transformation will spread below. At the proper moment for change, cherish the intention, and when orders issue, response will follow like an echo. Yet you humbly say ‘await worthy men.’ That would be like Yi Yin and the Duke of Zhou (Ji Dan) declining to correct Yin's and Zhou's institutions. I do not understand.”

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Soon Xiahou Xuan became General Conquering the West, with credentials over Yong and Liang provinces.

Xiahou Xuan joined Cao Shuang in the Luo Valley expedition and was criticized. After Cao Shuang's execution he was recalled as Grand Herald and several years later became Grand Minister of Ceremonies. Diminished because of Cao Shuang, he was discontented. Secretariat Director Li Feng, though long favored by General-in-Chief Sima Jingwang (Sima Shi), privately favored Xiahou Xuan. He joined the empress's father, Grand Master of Splendid Happiness Zhang Ji, in planning to have Xiahou Xuan assist government. Li Feng controlled confidential affairs, his son had married a princess, and he and Zhang Ji were both from Fengyi; Zhang Ji therefore trusted him. Li Feng secretly had his brother Li Yi, Inspector of Yan Province, request court attendance, intending to bring troops for the uprising. Permission was refused. In the second month of Jiaping 6, honored consorts were to be appointed. The conspirators planned to exploit the emperor's appearance at the ceremonial window and armed stair guards at the gates to kill the General-in-Chief, replacing him with Xiahou Xuan and making Zhang Ji General of Agile Cavalry. Li Feng secretly told Supervisor of the Yellow Gates Su Shuo, Prefect of the Yongning Office Yue Dun, and Supervisor of Supernumerary Attendants Liu Xian, “You have committed many offenses inside the palace. The General-in-Chief is stern and has repeatedly mentioned them. Zhang Dang is a warning.” They all agreed to cooperate.

CommentaryThe Wei shu says: Xiahou Xuan, long honored, was dismissed because of Cao Shuang and continually unhappy. He conspired with Secretariat Director Li Feng and the empress's father Zhang Ji, a cunning fellow native of Fengyi. Zhang Ji had been recalled as Administrator of Dongguan because of the marriage and was also discontented. Li Feng, occupying a confidential office with his son Li Tao a marquis and Attendant within the Palace married to Senior Princess of Qi (Lady Cao), felt unsafe. He secretly told Li Tao, “Xiahou Xuan is esteemed throughout the realm, in his prime and fit for great responsibility, yet permanently sidelined. As Cao Shuang's cousin, he has grounds for suspicion of the General-in-Chief. His letter troubles me deeply. Zhang Ji is capable but left a great military commandery to sit at home. Both are frustrated; tell them my confidential plan.” Visiting Zhang Ji during an illness with sores, Li Tao dismissed others: “Our family is close to confidential power through my marriage, yet fears the General-in-Chief's distrust. The Grand Minister of Ceremonies shares deep anxiety. Even your rank as the empress's father does not ensure safety. We share these concerns; my father wishes to plan with you.” Zhang Ji remained silent a long time: “We share a boat in danger. Where can I flee? This is a great affair: failure brings disaster to the clan.” Li Tao reported back. Li Feng privately addressed Su Shuo and the others, who said they would follow his plan. “At the consorts' investiture,” he said, “troops will guard the gates. When the emperor appears, press him and take the officials and troops to execute the General-in-Chief. Secretly report this intention to him together.” They asked, “What if he refuses?” “Circumstances require expedients. If he will not listen, abduct him. How could he fail to follow?” They agreed. “This means clan extermination,” Li Feng warned. “Keep it secret. Success will make you marquises and palace attendants.” He informed Xiahou Xuan and Zhang Ji; Zhang Ji sent his son Zhang Miao to coordinate. The Shiyu says: When Li Tao reported the plan, Xiahou Xuan merely said, “Consider it carefully,” and did not report it.

The General-in-Chief learned something of the plot and invited Li Feng to meet. Unaware, Li Feng went and was immediately killed.

CommentaryThe Shiyu says: Retainer Wang Yang offered to summon Li Feng: “If unprepared, pressure will bring him. If he refuses, I alone can restrain him. But if he knows the plot is exposed, gathers men and long halberds around his carriage, enters Yunlong Gate, takes the emperor to Lingyun Terrace with its arms for three thousand men, and drums up a force, I cannot manage that.” The General-in-Chief sent him with a carriage; compelled, Li Feng came. The Wei shi chunqiu says: Rebuked and knowing disaster was upon him, Li Feng said sternly, “You father and sons conceal wickedness and intend to overthrow the state. I regret lacking the strength to seize and destroy you!” Angry, the General-in-Chief had strong men strike his waist with sword pommels and killed him. The Wei lüe says: Li Feng, courtesy name Anguo, was former Minister of the Guards Li Yi [李義]'s son. During Huangchu he joined the army through his father's privilege. At seventeen or eighteen, before office, he was known at Ye for integrity and discernment of men, attracting universal attention. Later at Xuchang his reputation grew, but his father disliked this and shut his doors to visitors. When Emperor Ming (Cao Rui) was crown prince, Li Feng belonged to his literary staff. After accession, the emperor asked a Wu defector which central scholars were known in the south. “Li Anguo [Li Feng],” he answered. Li Feng was then Gentleman of the Yellow Gates. Hearing his identity, the emperor exclaimed, “Does his reputation reach Wu and Yue?” He later became Cavalry Commandant and Attendant within the Palace. After the emperor's death he was Minister Coachman of Yongning Palace, his reputation exceeding his practical ability. During Zhengshi he became Palace Attendant and Supervisor of the Masters of Writing. Frequently pleading illness, he would return briefly shortly before the hundred-day limit that required surrendering his stipend, then fall ill again, repeating this for years. When Li Tao was selected to marry a princess, Li Feng publicly declined but inwardly was not much averse. His younger brothers Li Yi [李翼] and Li Wei both governed commanderies within a few years. He publicly admonished them to use honors as [□; the supplied Chinese has a missing character]. During Sima Xuanwang (Sima Yi)'s long illness, Li Wei, a two-thousand-shi official, drank excessively and disordered Xinping and Fufeng, but Li Feng did not recall him. People thought he relied on favor. Under Cao Shuang's monopoly, Li Feng hovered between both leaders without commitment. A satire said, “Cao Shuang's power is hot as boiling water; the Grand Tutor and sons cold as cool drink; Li Feng and brothers like wandering light.” It meant that despite an outward show of purity he schemed within, resembling a will-o'-the-wisp. When Sima Xuanwang (Sima Yi) proposed Cao Shuang's execution and stopped his carriage below the palace, he communicated with Li Feng, who became so frightened that his breath failed and he sank to the ground. “In Jiaping 4, after Sima Xuanwang (Sima Yi)'s death, the Secretariat directorship fell vacant. Asked by the General-in-Chief whom to appoint, some ministers indicated Li Feng. Knowing it was not an entirely favorable selection, he nevertheless thought his imperial marriage called him to support the sovereign and did not decline. During his two years in the Secretariat, the emperor repeatedly summoned him privately, and their words were unknown. Sima Jingwang (Sima Shi) knew he was being discussed, summoned him, and killed him when he did not disclose the truth. The affair was secret. Throughout two reigns Li Feng had neglected private wealth and lived on his stipend. Though Li Tao married a princess, his father forbade improper acquisitions. Gifts of money and silk were distributed to relatives; palace women given him were passed to his sisters' sons rather than retained for his own household. After his death an inventory found no surplus wealth.” The Wei shi chunqiu says: His body was sent at night to the Commandant of Justice Zhong Yu, who refused it: “This was not dealt with by judicial officers.” Only after being informed of the circumstances and ordered did he accept it. The emperor angrily wanted to ask why Li Feng had died, but the frightened empress dowager summoned him inside and stopped it. Envoys were sent to arrest Li Yi [翼]. The Shiyu says: Li Yi's second wife, elder sister of Cavalier Attendant-in-Ordinary Xun Yi, said, “The Secretariat affair is exposed. Flee to Wu before the warrant arrives. Why wait for death? Which followers can share life and death with you?” Before he answered she said, “You govern a great province yet do not know whom you can trust with your life. Even fleeing will not save you.” He replied, “Our two children are small. I will not go. I am implicated only by association; if I die, they will be spared.” This proved true. His son Li Bin, Yang Jun's nephew through his sister, became Intendant of Henan early under Emperor Hui of Jin (Sima Zhong) and died with Yang Jun, as recorded in the Jin shu.

The case went to the responsible authorities. Xiahou Xuan, Zhang Ji, Su Shuo, Yue Dun, Liu Xian, and others were sent to the Commandant of Justice.

CommentaryThe Shiyu says: Xiahou Xuan refused to provide a statement. Zhong Yu questioned him personally, but he sternly replied, “What statement should I give? You are an official charged with exacting statements. Write mine yourself.” Recognizing his high integrity yet needing to complete the case, Zhong Yu wrote a statement at night matching the alleged events and tearfully showed it to him. Xiahou Xuan merely nodded. Zhong Yu's younger brother Zhong Hui, younger than Xiahou Xuan and never accepted as his friend, behaved familiarly with him at Zhong Yu's seat, but Xiahou Xuan rejected it. Sun Sheng's miscellaneous records says: Zhong Hui sought familiarity and friendship while Xiahou Xuan was imprisoned. Xiahou Xuan said sternly, “Master Zhong (Zhong Hui), why press me like this?”

Zhong Yu memorialized: “Li Feng and the others plotted to coerce the sovereign and arbitrarily execute the chief minister, committing great treason. Judge them according to law.” The high ministers deliberated with the judicial authorities: “All received exceptional favor and held confidential power. Zhang Ji possessed the honor of the empress's father; Xiahou Xuan descended from longstanding ministers. Yet they concealed evil intent, conspired with eunuchs, and supplied treacherous plans. Fearing imperial authority and unable to act openly, they intended coercion of the sovereign, violent deception, execution of a worthy chief minister, and arbitrary appointments to overthrow the imperial house and endanger the state. Zhong Yu's findings accord with the statutes. Approve their execution.” An edict declared, “Senior Princess of Qi (Lady Cao) is a cherished survivor of the former emperor. Spare her three sons' lives.” Li Feng, Xiahou Xuan, Zhang Ji, Yue Dun, Liu Xian, and others had their three degrees of kin exterminated.

The remaining relatives were exiled to Lelang. Xiahou Xuan was broad-minded and generous. At execution in the Eastern Market his expression and conduct remained unchanged. He was forty-six.

CommentaryThe Wei lüe says: Since returning from the west he had avoided personal influence-seeking and kept no beautiful luxuries. The Wei shi chunqiu says: Before fleeing to Shu, Xiahou Ba urged him to come too. Xiahou Xuan replied, “Shall I cling to life as a guest of the enemy?” and returned to the capital. After the Grand Tutor (Sima Yi) died, Xu Yun said, “No more worries.” Xiahou Xuan sighed, “Shizong [Xu Yun], why do you not see? He could still treat me as a young family friend. Ziyuan (Sima Shi) and Zishang (Sima Zhao) will not tolerate me.” Xiahou Xuan wrote essays on Yue Yi, Zhang Liang, and the original absence of mutilating punishments, whose broad arguments circulated widely. At his arrest General of the Guards Sima Wenwang (Sima Zhao) wept and pleaded for him. The General-in-Chief replied, “Have you forgotten Minister of Works Zhao Yan's funeral?” Earlier, when Zhao Yan died, the Sima brothers attended among hundreds of guests. Xiahou Xuan arrived late, and the guests left their seats to greet him. The General-in-Chief resented him from then on. I, Pei Songzhi, observe: Cao Shuang attacked Shu in Zhengshi 5, when Xiahou Xuan already supervised Guanzhong, and Xiahou Xuan returned to Luoyang only after Cao Shuang's destruction in the tenth year. According to the Annals of the Young Emperor, Zhao Yan died in the sixth year. Xiahou Xuan therefore had no opportunity to attend. Neither annals nor biography records a court visit. This seems fabricated.

During Zhengyuan, continuing meritorious ministers' lines, the court made Xiahou Shang's clan grandson Xiahou Ben Marquis of Changling Village with three hundred households to maintain his succession.

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Central Commander of the Army Xu Yun of Gaoyang was close to Li Feng and Xiahou Xuan. Earlier a forged imperial edict had arrived naming Xiahou Xuan General-in-Chief and Xu Yun Grand Commandant, jointly overseeing the Secretariat. Before dawn someone on horseback handed the tablet to his gate officer, announced an edict, and rode away. Xu Yun burned it without showing Sima Jingwang (Sima Shi). After the conspiracy was exposed, he became General Garrisoning the North with credentials over military affairs north of the river. Before departure he was charged with distributing government property, sent to the Commandant of Justice, and exiled to Lelang, dying on the road.

CommentaryThe Wei lüe says: Xu Yun, courtesy name Shizong, came from a prominent family. His father Xu Ju served as Colonel for Agricultural Administration and commandery administrator. Renowned in Ji Province while young with fellow native Cui Zan, he was summoned to the army. Under Emperor Ming (Cao Rui), as Secretariat Gentleman for Selection, he worked with Yuan Kan of Chen State. Both were imprisoned for official misconduct. The stern edict meant someone would die, with heavier blame on the direct responsible party [正直者爲重; the exact legal phrasing is uncertain]. Xu Yun told Yuan Kan, “As a meritorious minister's son, you fall under the Eight Deliberations and need not fear death.” Understanding, Yuan Kan accepted the heavier charge. After punishment Xu Yun returned to service, governed a commandery, and rose to Palace Attendant, Master of Writing, and Central Commander of the Army. Hearing of Li Feng's arrests, he set out for the General-in-Chief but hesitated, returning midway for his trousers. By then the arrests were complete. The General-in-Chief remarked, “I arrest Li Feng and the others myself. Why are the gentlemen so agitated?” Many ministers were anxious, but people thought he meant Xu Yun. When General Garrisoning the North Liu Jing died, Xu Yun replaced him. With credentials and traveling conveyance received, he stayed outside the city. The General-in-Chief wrote, “The northern command has few affairs but governs a region. You will sound splendid drums and display vermilion credentials through your home province: embroidered robes worn by daylight.” Delighted, Xu Yun sought different musicians and banners from the Secretariat. His nephew Xu Su had heard suspicions and warned, “Just go quickly. Why bother?” Xu Yun replied, “You are a commonplace fellow and do not understand. I seek this to honor the state.” Before departure the emperor assembled ministers and drew Xu Yun particularly near. Formerly a palace attendant, he wept at leaving. After the gathering an edict urged departure, but officials accused him of improperly giving kitchen money and grain to entertainers and subordinates. Imprisoned and interrogated, his death sentence was reduced to frontier exile. He left in autumn of Jiaping 6 without wife or children and died before arrival that winter. The Wei shi chunqiu says: As selection official, Xu Yun appointed commandery administrators. Emperor Ming (Cao Rui), suspecting irregular precedence, summoned him for punishment. His wife Lady Ruan came barefoot: “An enlightened ruler can be won by reason, not easily by emotional pleading.” He nodded and entered. Under angry questioning he explained that one administrator's papers arrived first though his term ended later, while another's papers arrived later though his term ended first. The emperor checked the records and released him, saw his worn clothing, called him honest, and gave him gifts. When appointed to the north, he told his wife, “I know I am safe!” She replied, “Disaster appears here. What safety?” Skilled at reading seals, he disliked his new seal and had it remade three times. He said, “Though just completed, it has already been dishonored.” Questioned, the bearer admitted dropping it in a privy. The Xiangyin shu says: “Seal divination originated with Chen Changwen (Chen Qun), who taught Wei Zhongjiang (Wei Dan). Seal-maker Yang Li learned from Wei Dan and taught Xu Shizong (Xu Yun). Yang Li predicted correctly eight or nine times in ten. Asked his source, Chen Qun said, ‘Han had manuals for reading seals and tablets, as well as hawks, cattle, and horses. Seal-maker Zong Yang taught Cheng Shenbo; thirteen such physiognomic traditions survive.’” Xu Yun's wife was worthy and intelligent but unattractive. At first sight he was shocked and after the wedding rites did not intend to reenter her room. Her maid reported a guest surnamed Huan. “It must be Huan Fan, who will urge him to return.” Huan Fan indeed did. Xu Yun entered but soon rose; she held his robe. He asked, “How many of a woman's four virtues do you possess?” “Only beauty is lacking. How many of a gentleman's hundred qualities do you possess?” “All.” She replied, “Virtue heads the hundred. You love beauty, not virtue. How can you have them all?” Ashamed, he recognized her extraordinary character, and they became close. Their sons Xu Qi and Xu Meng earned good reputations young. Later, when Xu Yun was executed by Sima Jingwang (Sima Shi) [this account differs from the preceding report of death in exile], a disciple rushed to tell her. She continued weaving without changing expression: “I knew it would be so.” When he proposed hiding the sons, she said, “They are not involved.” Later she moved to the tomb. Sima Jingwang (Sima Shi) sent Zhong Hui to examine the sons and arrest them if their abilities equaled their father's. They consulted their mother: “Though worthy, your talents are not extensive. Speak naturally. Do not display extreme grief; stop when he stops. Ask a little about court affairs.” They followed this advice. Zhong Hui reported their behavior and they escaped, owing to her instruction. Even his discernment lost to this worthy woman's wisdom. Blessings reached later descendants, with posthumous enfeoffment of sons and grandsons. The Shiyu says: Xu Qi, courtesy name Zitai, and Xu Meng, courtesy name Zibao, both possessed administrative learning and ability. During Jin's Yuankang, Xu Qi became Colonel Director of Retainers and Xu Meng Inspector of You Province. Fu Chang's Jin zhugong zan says: Xu Meng excelled in rites, music, and refined scholarship. Xu Qi's son Xu Xia, courtesy name Sizu, was known for pure aspirations and became Palace Attendant. Xu Meng's son Xu Shi, courtesy name Yizu, was capable and became Intendant of Puyang and Administrator of Pingyuan.

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Wang Jing of Qinghe shared Xu Yun's reputation as an eminent man of Ji Province. As Master of Writing during Ganlu he was executed in the affair of the Duke of Gaogui Township (Cao Mao). When he first became a commandery administrator, his mother said, “You are a farmer's son and have reached two-thousand-shi rank. Excess is inauspicious; stop here.” He did not follow her advice, serving as inspector of two provinces and Colonel Director of Retainers before disaster came.

CommentaryThe Shiyu says: Wang Jing, courtesy name Yanwei, first governed Jiangxia. General-in-Chief Cao Shuang sent him twenty bolts of silk to trade in Wu. Without opening the letter, he resigned and returned home. Hearing the reason, his mother had him beaten fifty strokes before the escorting official for abandoning military responsibility without authorization. Cao Shuang imposed no further punishment. As Colonel Director of Retainers he recruited Xiang Xiong of Henei as Metropolitan Attendant. When Wang Ye went out [in the affair of Cao Mao], he did not speak for Wang Jing, who consequently met disaster. Wang Jing was executed in the Eastern Market; Xiang Xiong's weeping moved the whole market. His mother was also executed. Former Yong Province official Huangfu Yan used his own wealth to bury them. The Han Jin chunqiu says: Arrested, Wang Jing took leave of his mother. Unmoved and smiling, she said, “Who does not die? My earlier reason for not stopping you [as worded in this account] was fear that you would not find the proper end. To die together for this—what regret is there?” In Taishi 1, Emperor Wu of Jin (Sima Yan) ordered: “Although former Master of Writing Wang Jing suffered legal execution, his steadfast purpose deserves praise. I have always pitied his household's extinction. Give his grandson office as Gentleman of the Household.”

Xu Yun's friend Cui Zan, from the same commandery, also warned him against excessive prosperity in worldly life.

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The appraisal says: The Xiahou and Cao families had intermarried for generations. Thus Xiahou Dun, Xiahou Yuan, Cao Ren, Cao Hong, Cao Xiu, Xiahou Shang, Cao Zhen, and the others gained honor through old kinship connections, assisting great achievements with effective service. Cao Shuang's virtue was slight but his station exalted; he sank into indulgence and excess, precisely what the Changes warns against and Daoist teaching shuns. Xiahou Xuan was renowned for standards, bearing, and capacity, yet remained closely entangled with his maternal relatives Cao Shuang's family. With such position and honor, he was never heard correcting Cao Shuang's faults or bringing forward worthy men. Judged by this, how could he escape blame?