Entry

The Censor-in-chief Liu Tao, supreme commander of the military affairs of Guang-dong/Guang-xi and Fu-jian, memorialized on plans in respect of the Guang-dong bandit situation and troop rations, noting: "There are five types of bandits in Guang-dong. The chief evil-doers are Zeng Yi-ben and the remnant Japanese of Jie-shi. Their pernicious influence is the greatest and it is imperative that they be eliminated. There are also coastal dwellers who are in communication with the bandits. If they are all subject to execution, their avenues for earning a living will be cut off and they will have an increased desire to join the bandits. It is requested that instructions be posted for them allowing them to make a new start. If they do not repent, they should be subject to the heavy penalties of the law.... Finally, there is the pacified bandit Lin Dao-qian. He alternately rebels and comes to allegiance. I am greatly concerned that we are raising a tiger and this will result in future harm. However, he has already responded to pacification and realized achievements at sea. We should examine his actions and if he does not incline towards revolt he should be shown trust and kindness, so that he does not begin to have doubts...". The Ministry of War re-submitted the memorial and an Imperial order was issued, noting "Approved as proposed".