Entry

The envoy Le-sha, who had been sent by the country of Champa, came to inform of an urgent matter. He advised: "Our country's territory adjoins that of Annam and we have repeatedly been subject to attacks. Recently, Annam sent people to demand rhinoceros, elephants and valuables and wanted us to treat the persons they had sent with the same rites which are extended to the envoys from the Heavenly Court. Our country considered that as both ourselves and Annam follow the Imperial Court's calendar, we could not accord with their demands and this led to hostilities. During the second month of the seventh year of the Cheng-hua reign (Feb/Mar 1471), the Annam troops arrived and attacked our country's capital, carrying off the king of the country Pan-luo Cha-quan and his family members, a total of over 50 persons. They also seized the seals, burnt dwellings and killed or carried off innumerable troops and civilians, both men and women. Now, the king's younger brother Pan-luo Cha-yue has temporarily taken on management of the affairs of state and humbly awaits arrangements." The memorial was sent to the Ministry of War. The Minister of War Bai Gui and others advised: "In the seventh year of the Cheng-hua reign (1471/72) Annam memorialized saying that Champa had crossed the border and attacked it, and asked the Court to show compassion by curbing the oppression. At that time we felt that Li Hao had covertly planned to annex territory, but was overtly memorializing that he had been attacked. Now he has laid that country waste and carried off its ruler. If he is not punished, not only will Champa lose its desire to give its allegiance to China, but it will probably cause Annam to become recalcitrant. We should send an official with Imperial orders of instruction for Hao, requiring him to return to Champa its king, his family members and the seals which they have stolen, so that his actions do not invite a military calamity." An Imperial order was issued, noting: "There is no need to send an official to Annam. Wait until an envoy arrives from Annam and give the Imperial orders to him."