Tao Qian, styled Gongzu, was from Danyang.(1) When he was young, he was fond of studying and became a scholar. He served his home province and commandery, was nominated as Flourishing in Talent, became Prefect of Lu.(2) He was promoted to Inspector of You Province and became Gentleman Consultant. Later, he became involved in military affairs for General of Chariots and Cavalry; Zhang Wen. They went west to suppress Han Sui.(3) It happened that the Yellow Turbans of Xu province rebelled. [Tao] Qian was made Inspector of Xu Province, attacked the Yellow Turbans, and routed them.
Tao Qian, styled Gongzu, was from Danyang.(1) When he was young, he was fond of studying and became a scholar. He served his home province and commandery, was nominated as Flourishing in Talent, became Prefect of Lu.(2) He was promoted to Inspector of You Province and became Gentleman Consultant. Later, he became involved in military affairs for General of Chariots and Cavalry; Zhang Wen. They went west to suppress Han Sui.(3) It happened that the Yellow Turbans of Xu province rebelled. [Tao] Qian was made Inspector of Xu Province, attacked the Yellow Turbans, and routed them.
[spoiler=](1): The [i]Book of Wu[/i] states: The father of [Tao] Qian was a former Chief of Yuyao. [Tao] Qian was young when he became fatherless. He initially became known within the county for being unrestrained. When he was fourteen, he still sewed silk to make banners, rode bamboo horses, and played. Every village boy all followed him. A former Grand Administrator of Cangwu, a Lord Gan, encountered him on the road. When he saw his facial features, he was awed, and so called to him. They went to the chariot to talk, and he [Lord Gan] was so very pleased that he betrothed his daughter. When the wife of Lord Gan heard this, she angrily said, "I heard that this boy of the Tao family is immature and without restraint. Why would you have our daughter betrothed to him?" The Lord said, "He has extraordinary features. Once he matures, he shall have great achievements." Thereupon, the marriage happened.
[spoiler=](1): The [i]Book of Wu[/i] states: The father of [Tao] Qian was a former Chief of Yuyao. [Tao] Qian was young when he became fatherless. He initially became known within the county for being unrestrained. When he was fourteen, he still sewed silk to make banners, rode bamboo horses, and played. Every village boy all followed him. A former Grand Administrator of Cangwu, a Lord Gan of the same county, encountered him on the road. When he saw his facial features, he was awed, and so called to him. They went to the chariot to talk, and he [Lord Gan] was so very pleased that he betrothed his daughter. When the wife of Lord Gan heard this, she angrily said, "I heard that this boy of the Tao family is immature and without restraint. Why would you have our daughter betrothed to him?" The Lord said, "He has extraordinary features. Once he matures, he shall have great achievements." Thereupon, the marriage happened.
(2): The [i]Book of Wu[/i] states: [Tao] Qian by nature was firm and upright. He had great moral integrity. He was recommended as Filial and Incorrupt and conferred as Gentleman of the Secretariat, then promoted to Prefect of Shu. The commandery administrator, Zhang Pan, was of the same commandery as his ancestors. As he [Zhang Pan] was friends with the father of [Tao] Qian, he was especially intimate with him, but [Tao] Qian was ashamed to deign himself for him. When he [Tao Qian] and many others returned to the city, due to public business, he met him. When they were done sitting, [Zhang] Pan often secretly returned and feasted with [Tao] Qian, who occasionally refused and did not stay. He often urged [Tao] Qian to dance, but [Tao] Qian did not rise, so he firmly forced him. When he [Tao Qian] was dancing, he also did not spin. [Zhang] Pan said, "Is it inappropriate to spin?" [The reply], "I cannot spin, for if I spun, I would surpass others." From this, he became unhappy and they eventually became enemies, but as [Tao] Qian was pure in his rank, there was nothing to use to impeach him for. When he sacrificed to the Spirit Star, he had over five hundred cash, so he [Zhang Pan] wanted to use [the excuse of] accepting bribes against him. [Tao] Qian abandoned his office and left.
(2): The [i]Book of Wu[/i] states: [Tao] Qian by nature was firm and upright. He had great moral integrity. He was recommended as Filial and Incorrupt and conferred as Gentleman of the Secretariat, then promoted to Prefect of Shu. The commandery administrator, Zhang Pan, was of the same commandery as his ancestors. As he [Zhang Pan] was friends with the father of [Tao] Qian, he was especially intimate with him, but [Tao] Qian was ashamed to deign himself for him. When he [Tao Qian] and many others returned to the city, due to public business, he met him. When they were done sitting, [Zhang] Pan often secretly returned and feasted with [Tao] Qian, who occasionally refused and did not stay. He often urged [Tao] Qian to dance, but [Tao] Qian did not rise, so he firmly forced him. When he [Tao Qian] was dancing, he also did not spin. [Zhang] Pan said, "Is it inappropriate to spin?" [The reply], "I cannot spin, for if I spun, I would surpass others." From this, he became unhappy and they eventually became enemies, but as [Tao] Qian was pure in his rank, there was nothing to use to impeach him for. When he sacrificed to the Spirit Star, he had over five hundred cash, so he [Zhang Pan] wanted to use [the excuse of] accepting bribes against him. [Tao] Qian abandoned his office and left.
(3): The [i]Book of Wu[/i] states: It happened that the Western Qiang were invading the border, so Huangfu Song was made General who Conquers the West. He petitioned, asking for military generals. [Tao] Qian was thus conferred as Commandant who Displays Might, and he and [Huangfu] Song went on an expedition against the Qiang, crushing them. Later, Bian Zhang and Han Sui caused turmoil, so Excellency of Works; Zhang Wen accepted orders to conquer them. He also asked that [Tao] Qian serve as Military Aide, but though his reception was very generous, [Tao] Qian belittled his conduct and felt defiant within. When the army was relieved and returned, the officials were in a large meeting. [Zhang] Wen urged [Tao] Qian to pour wine, but [Tao] Qian publicly shamed [Zhang] Wen. [Zhang] Wen was furious and exiled [Tao] Qian to the border. Someone told [Zhang] Wen, "Tao Gongzu originally was important to you because of his talent and strategic ability, yet due to a mistake while intoxicated one day, he does not receive forgiveness. He would abandon the far in afertile place while his generosity and virtue has no end. He is looked up to by people from all four sides! Better to let go of your resentment and be able to restore your past relationship. Thus, the distant will hear of your admirable virtue." [Zhang] Wen agreed with such words, thus he recalled [Tao] Qian. When [Tao] Qian arrived, someone also told [Tao] Qian, "You belittled one of the Excellencies. Such a crime is of your doing. Now you have received forgiveness, such virtue is vastly generous. You should lower your ambitions and speak humbly so as to apologize to him. [Tao] Qian said, "Yes." They also told [Zhang] Wen, "Tao Gongzu has now deeply held himself accountable and thinks about reformation. He has apologized to the Son of Heaven for the conclusion of the ceremony, so he will surely go to your residence. Your Excellency, you should meet him so as to assuage him." At the time, [Zhang] Wen was at the palace gates when he met [Tao] Qian. [Tao] Qian looked up and said, "I apologized to the court, but why for you, Your Excellency?" [Zhang] Wen said, "Gongzu, has your fervor still not been rid of?" Thus, he set up wine for him and treated him like before.
(3): The [i]Book of Wu[/i] states: It happened that the Western Qiang were invading the border, so Huangfu Song was made General who Conquers the West. He petitioned, asking for military generals. [Tao] Qian was thus conferred as Commandant who Displays Might, and he and [Huangfu] Song went on an expedition against the Qiang, crushing them. Later, Bian Zhang and Han Sui caused turmoil, so Excellency of Works; Zhang Wen accepted orders to conquer them. He also asked that [Tao] Qian serve as Military Aide, but though his reception was very generous, [Tao] Qian belittled his conduct and felt defiant within. When the army was relieved and returned, the officials were in a large meeting. [Zhang] Wen urged [Tao] Qian to pour wine, but [Tao] Qian publicly shamed [Zhang] Wen. [Zhang] Wen was furious and exiled [Tao] Qian to the border. Someone told [Zhang] Wen, "Tao Gongzu originally was important to you because of his talent and strategic ability, yet due to a mistake while intoxicated one day, he does not receive forgiveness. By abandoning him so far in an infertile place and not showing him generosity and virtue ever, where can people from all four sides place their hopes in? Better to let go of your resentment and be able to restore your past relationship. Thus, the distant will hear of your admirable virtue." [Zhang] Wen agreed with such words, thus he recalled [Tao] Qian. When [Tao] Qian arrived, someone also told [Tao] Qian, "You belittled one of the Excellencies. Such a crime is of your doing. Now you have received forgiveness, such virtue is vastly generous. You should lower your ambitions and speak humbly so as to apologize to him. [Tao] Qian said, "Yes." They also told [Zhang] Wen, "Tao Gongzu has now deeply held himself accountable and thinks about reformation. Once he has concluded the ritual of apology to the Son of Heaven, he will surely go to your residence. Your Excellency, you should meet him so as to assuage him." At the time, [Zhang] Wen was at the palace gates when he met [Tao] Qian. [Tao] Qian looked up and said, "I apologized to the court, but why for you, Your Excellency?" [Zhang] Wen said, "Gongzu, has your fervor still not been rid of?" Thus, he set up wine for him and treated him like before.
When Dong Zhuo caused chaos, the provinces and commanderies rose up with their troops. The Son of Heaven set the capital at Chang'an, and was cut off from four sides. [Tao] Qian sent someone to go secretly so as to offer gifts and tribute. Thus, he was made General who Secures the East, Governor of Xu Province, and enfeoffed as Marquis of Liyang. At the time, the people of Xu Province were prosperous and the grain and rice were sealed off in great amounts, so many refugees joined him. However, [Tao] Qian betrayed moral values and acted to his desire. Grand Administrator of Guangling; Zhao Yu of Langye was a renowned scholar in Xu Province who was treated coldly for being loyal and candid(1) while Cao Hong, who held slanderous thoughts and was an ignoble person, was closely trusted by [Tao] Qian. Thus, criminal laws and political affairs thus lost their harmony. Many of the good and virtuous were harmed, and there was gradually chaos from this. Que Xuan of Xiapi declared himself the Son of Heaven. [Tao] Qian initially allied and plundered for money with him, but later killed [Que] Xuan and absorbed his troops.
When Dong Zhuo caused chaos, the provinces and commanderies rose up with their troops. The Son of Heaven set the capital at Chang'an, and was cut off from four sides. [Tao] Qian sent someone to go secretly so as to offer gifts and tribute. Thus, he was made General who Secures the East, Governor of Xu Province, and enfeoffed as Marquis of Liyang. At the time, the people of Xu Province were prosperous and the grain and rice were sealed off in great amounts, so many refugees joined him. However, [Tao] Qian betrayed moral values and acted to his desire. Grand Administrator of Guangling; Zhao Yu of Langye was a renowned scholar in Xu Province who was treated coldly for being loyal and candid(1) while Cao Hong and others, who held slanderous thoughts and were ignoble people, were closely trusted by [Tao] Qian. Thus, criminal laws and political affairs thus lost their harmony. Many of the good and virtuous were harmed, and there was gradually chaos from this. Que Xuan of Xiapi declared himself the Son of Heaven. [Tao] Qian initially allied and plundered for money with him, but later killed [Que] Xuan and absorbed his troops.
[spoiler=](1): The [i]Book of Han[/i] by Xie Cheng states: When [Zhao] Yu was thirteen, his mother once became ill for three months. [Zhao] Yu felt miserable and sorrowful that he became more thin, and to the point that his eyes did not shut together. He took grain and went out with it to divine, praying while crying blood. His hometown praised his filial piety. He went to the recluse scholar Gentleman Qiguan of Dongguan to receive the [i]Commentary of Gongyang[/i] and other multifaceted studies. For many years, he hid his ambitions and did not even peep out into gardens.(a) Those close or distant to him rarely saw his face. In times where he visited his parents, it would be a short amount before he would return. He was noble, pure, incorrupt, and upright. He cherished rites to establish himself. He was pure, outstanding, majestic, and cautious. Nothing could interfere with his ambitions. He commended virtue and increased civil manners while he impeached evil and corrected vulgar manners. The provinces and commanderies invited and summoned him, but he often claimed illness and did not reply. State chancellors Tan Mo and Chen Zun both summoned him, but he did not take office. There were some that became increasingly furious, but he ultimately never changed his will. He was nominated as Filial and Incorrupt and promoted to Chief of Ju. He propagated the Five Teachings(b) and his government became a national model.
[spoiler=](1): The [i]Book of Han[/i] by Xie Cheng states: When [Zhao] Yu was thirteen, his mother once became ill for three months. [Zhao] Yu felt miserable and sorrowful that he became more thin, and to the point that his eyes did not shut together. He took grain and went out with it to divine, praying while crying blood. His hometown praised his filial piety. He went to the recluse scholar Gentleman Qiguan of Dongguan to receive the [i]Commentary of Gongyang[/i] and other multifaceted studies. For many years, he hid his ambitions and did not even peep out into gardens.(a) Those close or distant to him rarely saw his face. In times where he visited his parents, it would be a short amount before he would return. He was noble, pure, incorrupt, and upright. He cherished rites to establish himself. He was pure, outstanding, majestic, and cautious. Nothing could interfere with his ambitions. He commended virtue and increased civil manners while he impeached evil and corrected vulgar manners. The provinces and commanderies invited and summoned him, but he often claimed illness and did not reply. State chancellors Tan Mo and Chen Zun both summoned him, but he did not take office. There were some that became increasingly furious, but he ultimately never changed his will. He was nominated as Filial and Incorrupt and promoted to Chief of Ju. He propagated the Five Teachings(b) and his government became a national model.
(a) - This describes how engrossed he was in his studies.
(a) - This describes how engrossed he was in his studies.
(b) - The Five Teachings were that the father had to be righteous, the mother had to be affectionate, the older brother had to be fraternal, and younger brother had to respectful, and the son had to be filial.
(b) - The Five Teachings were that the father had to be righteous, the mother had to be affectionate, the older brother had to be fraternal, and younger brother had to respectful, and the son had to be filial.
When the Yellow Turbans caused disorder, of the five commanderies of the Luliang region, the commanderies and counties there dispatched troops, being the first to punish them. Inspector of Xu Province; Ba Zhi petitioned that his merits were the best and that he should receive a promotion and rewards. [Zhao] Yu felt deeply ashamed, so he left his office and returned to his family. When Governor of Xu Province; Tao Qian recruited him as Assisting Clerk, he claimed illness and went into hiding. [Tao] Qian again ordered Yang province clerk Wu Fan of Kuaiji to announce his orders [to Zhao Yu], and when [Zhao] Yu maintained his intentions and did not move, he wanted to use force through giving punishments. Thereafter did he [Zhao Yu] take office. He was nominated as Flourishing in Talent and promoted to Grand Administrator of Guangling. The bandit Ze Rong was suppressed from Linhuai, so he fled and entered the borders of the commandery. [Zhao] Yu led troops to block him in battle, but was defeated repeatedly and then killed.
When the Yellow Turbans caused disorder, of the five commanderies of the Luliang region, the commanderies and counties there dispatched troops, being the first to punish them. Inspector of Xu Province; Ba Zhi petitioned that his merits were the best and that he should receive a promotion and rewards. [Zhao] Yu felt deeply ashamed, so he left his office and returned to his family. When Governor of Xu Province; Tao Qian recruited him as Assisting Clerk, he claimed illness and went into hiding. [Tao] Qian again ordered Yang province clerk Wu Fan of Kuaiji to announce his orders [to Zhao Yu], and when [Zhao] Yu maintained his intentions and did not move, he wanted to intimidate him through inflicting punishments and convictions. Thereafter did he [Zhao Yu] take office. He was nominated as Flourishing in Talent and promoted to Grand Administrator of Guangling. The bandit Ze Rong was suppressed from Linhuai, so he fled and entered the borders of the commandery. [Zhao] Yu led troops to block him in battle, but was defeated repeatedly and then killed.
In the fourth year of the Chuping era [193], the Grand Progenitor went on an expedition against [Tao] Qian, attacking and capturing over ten cities. He arrived at Pengcheng and engaged in a great battle where the troops of [Tao] Qian were routed. The dead numbered in the tens of thousands that the Si river could not flow from it. [Tao] Qian retreated and guarded Shan. The Grand Progenitor, as his supplies were low, led his army to return.(1) In the first year of the Xingping era [194], [the Grand Progenitor] went east in another expedition, seizing the various counties in Langya and Donghai. [Tao] Qian felt fearful, and he wanted to flee and join Danyang. At the time, Zhang Miao revolted in favor of Lü Bu, so the Grand Progenitor returned to attack [Lü] Bu. That year, [Tao] Qian became ill and died.(2)
In the fourth year of the Chuping era [193], the Grand Progenitor went on an expedition against [Tao] Qian, attacking and capturing over ten cities. He arrived at Pengcheng and engaged in a great battle where the troops of [Tao] Qian were routed. The dead numbered in the tens of thousands that the Si river could not flow from it. [Tao] Qian retreated and guarded Shan. The Grand Progenitor, as his supplies were low, led his army to return.(1) In the first year of the Xingping era [194], [the Grand Progenitor] went east in another expedition, seizing the various counties in Langya and Donghai. [Tao] Qian felt fearful, and he wanted to flee back to Danyang. At the time, Zhang Miao revolted in favor of Lü Bu, so the Grand Progenitor returned to attack [Lü] Bu. That year, [Tao] Qian became ill and died.(2)
[spoiler=](1): The [i]Book of Wu[/i] states: The father of Excellency Cao was killed in Taishan, so he put the blame on [Tao] Qian. He wanted to attack [Tao] Qian, but feared his strength, so he petitioned to order provinces and commanderies to suddenly disband their troops.
[spoiler=](1): The [i]Book of Wu[/i] states: The father of Excellency Cao was killed in Taishan, so he put the blame on [Tao] Qian. He wanted to attack [Tao] Qian, but feared his strength, so he petitioned to order provinces and commanderies to suddenly disband their troops.
An edict stated, "Currently, those within the Sea are in chaos, and provinces along with commanderies have risen up. Soldiers are exhausted, but the hardships have not been put to an end. Some generals and officials are not good and depend on the opportunity to hunt and capture [villains] in order to encroach and bully the common people. Those that have been displaced and harmed are numerous, and such rumors that are being spread cause cities and towns to shake. The countryside fears the arrogant and violent while the loyal and good become evildoers. How is this different than holding firewood to put out the fire or fanning the fire to stop boiling water?
An edict stated, "Currently, those within the Sea are in chaos, and provinces along with commanderies have risen up. Soldiers are exhausted, but the hardships have not been put to an end. Some generals and officials are not good and depend on the opportunity to hunt and capture [villains] in order to encroach and bully the common people. Those that have been displaced and harmed are numerous, and such rumors that are being spread cause cities and towns to shake. The countryside fears the arrogant and violent while the loyal and good become evildoers. How is this different than holding firewood to put out the fire or fanning the fire to stop boiling water?
Now that the four classes of people are being displaced, they settle in foreign territory, having to lead and support their elders into the hills and fields while leaving behind their young children in deep ravines. They look at their former hometown and sigh with grief; they look at the field paths and cry tears. They are hungry, in distress, and miserable. That, too, is already too dire.
Now that the four classes of people are being displaced, they settle in foreign territory, having to lead and support their elders into the hills and fields while leaving behind their young children in deep ravines. They look at their former hometown and sigh with grief; they look at the field paths and cry tears. They are hungry, in distress, and miserable. That, too, is already too dire. But although they regret their past mistakes and think about obeying guiding authority, war is continuous and troops come one after another so much so that blades and arrowheads are scattered about in the fields. They fear that if they disperse in the morning, they will become bound prisoners by the evening, and this is why they rely on their troops to guard themselves. They want to stop, but they dare not disperse.
Although I regret the mistakes of past people, I think about carrying out guidance today. However, war is continuous and troops come one after another so much so that sharp weapons shown in the fields. They fear that if they disperse in the morning, they will become bound prisoners by the evening, and this is why they rely on their troops to guard themselves. They want to stop, but they dare not disperse.
When this edict comes, they shall each disband and send back their armored troops, then return to personally farm and do sericulture. They [the local governments] shall only retain the usual ordinary officials to provide for their administrative agencies [rather than the ones they gained during the chaos]. They shall reassure and announce this [edict] to the far and near so that all shall hear and know of it!"
When this edict comes, they shall each disband and send back their armored troops, then return to personally farm and do sericulture. They shall only retain their ordinary officials to provide for their administrative agencies. This will ease and be announced to the far and near. Everyone shall make this become known."
When [Tao] Qian received the edict, he petitioned, "I have heard that in appeasing the far and placating the submissive, it cannot be accomplished without virtue, and that in overcoming danger and pacifying disorder, it cannot be achieved without troops. Thus, the fields of Zhuolu, Banquan, and Sanmiao had the armies of the Five Emperors [who triumphed] while the four states of Youhu, Guifang, Shang [dynasty], and Yan had the conquests of kings [who triumphed]. In the past since ancient times, there has never been someone who did not display power to end chaos or did not quake with might to stop violence. I previously, due to the Yellow Turbans bringing chaos to order, received orders to advance quickly, and there was no free time to rest. Although these documents have warnings, I received and announced your divine power, and I respectfully undertake heavenly punishment. In every conquest, I succeed, but these sorts of evildoers especially do not fear death. When fathers and older brothers are exterminated, their sons and younger brothers rise up, punishing army camps and fighting in battle. Even now, they are a menace.
When [Tao] Qian received the edict, he petitioned, "I have heard that in appeasing the far and placating the submissive, it cannot be accomplished without virtue, and that in overcoming danger and pacifying disorder, it cannot be achieved without troops. Thus, the fields of Zhuolu, Banquan, and Sanmiao had armies of the Five Emperors [triumph over them] while the four states of Youhu, Guifang, Shang [dynasty], and Yan had attacks from kings [triumph over them]. In the past since ancient times, there has never been someone who did not display power to end chaos or did not quake with might to stop violence. I previously, due to the Yellow Turbans bringing chaos to order, received orders to advance quickly, and there was no free time to rest.
Even though I have followed the law and delivered warnings, made my divine power known, reverently carry out heavenly punishment, and succeed in every conquest, these mystic evildoers are numerous and especially do not dread death. Where fathers and older brothers are exterminated, their sons and younger brothers rise up, forming camps and linking armies up. Even now, they are a menace.
If I accepted the orders to put away my armor, I would be situated in a weak nation. Renouncing military equipment will support the chaos while weakening government power will increase raids. Now if my army is disbanded today, trouble will surely arrive tomorrow. Above, this would humiliate the foundation of imperial conferments by the imperial court while below, this would cause evildoers to grow each day. This is not how to strengthen the trunk and weaken the branches(a) in the task of checking evil and stopping chaos.
If I accepted the orders to put away my armor, I would be situated in a weak nation. Renouncing military equipment will support the chaos while weakening government power will increase raids. Now if my army is disbanded today, trouble will surely arrive tomorrow. Above, this would humiliate the foundation of imperial conferments by the imperial court while below, this would cause evildoers to grow each day. This is not how to strengthen the trunk and weaken the branches(a) in the task of checking evil and stopping chaos.
I, as foolish and bewildered as I may be, have loyalty and empathy that has not been displayed. When I think about your kindness, I think about repaying it. This is an action I cannot hold back on. Therefore, I led my subordinates and ordered them to be on guard. When I leave, I mow down strong adversaries, and only my ability is what I see; when I enter, I spread your virtue and grace so as to undertake my official duties. I hope to render even minor achievements for the duty of atoning my crimes.
Foolish and bewildered though I may be, my patriotism and my empathy have not been demonstrated, so even though I think about your kindness and think about repaying it, that is something I cannot bear to do. Therefore, in supervising my subordinates, I ordered them to be vigilant and make preparations. When I march out, I shall mow down strong adversaries, making no other consideration than force; when I go back in, I shall spread your virtue and grace, upholding my official duties. I hope to render even minor achievements for the duty of atoning my crimes.
(a) - An idiom for centralizing imperial power while weakening the vassals.
(a) - An idiom for centralizing imperial power while weakening the vassals.
He also said, "The central plains are in chaos and it has not ended even now. Bundles of thatch(a) cannot enter and many obligatory offerings [from your vassals] are often obstructed. In waking or sleeping, I sigh with worry and there is no day I dare feel at ease. I sincerely believe that the offerings and gifts must come to you. After delicious food is delivered, only then will I remove my spears and take off my armor. This is my desire. I previously sent one million [i]hu[/i] of grain, which are already at the wharves. I shall then task my troops to guard and escort it."
He also said, "The central plains are in deep turmoil and it has not ended even now. Bundles of thatch(a) cannot enter [the court] and the obligatory offerings [from your vassals] are often inadequate. Thus, in waking or sleeping, I sigh with worry and there is no day I dare rest. I sincerely believe that if my offerings and gifts would certainly come to you and if my recommendations and offerings can be delivered, only then will I remove my spears and take off my armor. This is my desire. I previously sent one million [i]hu[/i] of grain, which are already at the wharves. I shall then task my troops to safeguard and escort it."
(a) - This refers generally to the tribute paid by vassals.
(a) - This refers generally to the tribute paid by vassals.
Excellency Cao obtained the petition of [Tao] Qian and knew he would not disband his troops. Therefore, he advanced and attacked Pengcheng, often killing people. [Tao] Qian led troops to attack him and Inspector of Qing Province; Tian Kai also reinforced [Tao] Qian with troops. The Excellency led his army back.
Excellency Cao obtained the petition of [Tao] Qian and knew he would not disband his troops. Therefore, he advanced and attacked Pengcheng, often killing people. [Tao] Qian led troops to attack him and Inspector of Qing Province; Tian Kai also reinforced [Tao] Qian with troops. The Excellency led his army back.
曹公得謙上事,知不罷兵。乃進攻彭城,多殺人民。謙引兵擊之,青州刺史田楷亦以兵救謙。公引兵還。
曹公得謙上事,知不罷兵。乃進攻彭城,多殺人民。謙引兵擊之,青州刺史田楷亦以兵救謙。公引兵還。
Your servant, [Pei] Songzhi, would propose that: At this time, the Son of Heaven was in Chang'an and Excellency Cao had not yet wielded government power. The edict disbanding troops could not have come from the Cao clan.
Your servant, [Pei] Songzhi, would propose that: At this time, the Son of Heaven was in Chang'an and Excellency Cao had not yet wielded government power. The edict disbanding troops could not have come from the Cao clan.
臣松之案:此時天子在長安,曹公尚未秉政。罷兵之詔,不得由曹氏出。
臣松之案:此時天子在長安,曹公尚未秉政。罷兵之詔,不得由曹氏出。
(2): The [i]Book of Wu[/i] states: When [Tao] Qian died, he was sixty-three. Zhang Zhao and others composed a lament for him: "Oh, praised be the governor! You who was a marquis and a general preserved admirable virtue in your chest! Verily did you have martial ability, verily did you have civil ability! Your demeanor was satisfactorily firm and upright, and you guarded himself through being gentle and benevolent. When you administered Shu and Lu, you left behind your affection to the people; when you governed You and Xu, the sweet trees was for all. Enlightened were barbarians, for they relied on your marquis being incorrupt; squirming were evil attackers, for it was not you that was uneased. The Emperor remembered these merits, and so you received peerage and rank through seals. Thus you became governor and marquis, and also gained ground in Liyang; thus you ascended to become a superior general, receiving the title of [General who] Secures the East. You were going to pacify the troubles of the world that the Altars of State would be honored so, but your allocated years were not eternal and you suddenly passed on. Losing their shelter and losing whom they rely upon, the people know that they are in hardship. It had still not been ten days when the five commanderies have collapsed. Lamenting are us at such, and who shall we look up to and rely upon? Our thoughts cannot reach you, but we will still gaze up and shout to the august sky! Oh, how lamentable this is!" [Tao] Qian had two sons, [Tao] Shang and [Tao] Ying, both of whom did not serve.
(2): The [i]Book of Wu[/i] states: When [Tao] Qian died, he was sixty-three. Zhang Zhao and others composed a lament for him: "Oh, praised be the governor! You who was a marquis and a general preserved admirable virtue in your chest! Verily did you have martial ability, verily did you have civil ability! Your demeanor was satisfactorily firm and upright, and you guarded himself through being gentle and benevolent. When you administered Shu and Lu, you left behind your affection to the people; when you governed You and Xu, the sweet trees was for all. Enlightened were many barbarians, for they relied on your marquis being incorrupt. Those benighted mystics would have never been quelled were it not for you. The Emperor remembered these merits, and so you received peerage and rank through seals. Thus you became governor and marquis, also gaining a domain in Liyang; thus you ascended to become a superior general, receiving the title of [General who] Secures the East. You were going to pacify the troubles of the world that the Altars of State would be honored so, but your allocated years were not eternal and you suddenly passed on. Losing their shelter and losing whom they rely upon, the people know that they are in hardship. In no more than ten days, your five commanderies will collapse! Lamenting are us at such, and who shall we look up to and rely upon? Our thoughts cannot reach you, but we will still gaze up and shout to the august sky! Oh, how lamentable this is!" [Tao] Qian had two sons, [Tao] Shang and [Tao] Ying, both of whom did not serve.