Entry

An envoy was sent with Imperial instructions with which to instruct the Xi-ping Marquis Mu Ying, the Ji-an Marquis Lu Zhong-heng, the Ping-liang Marquis Fei Ju, the Nan-an Marquis Yu Tong-yuan, the Si-chuan Regional Military Commissioner Ning Zheng, the Chu-xiong Guard Commander Yuan Yi, the Da-li Guard Commander Zheng Xiang, the Pin Dian Guard Commander Lai Zhen and the Jin-chi Guard Commanders Li Guan and Zhu Jie. The orders read: "Recently, the Censor Li Yuan-ming returned from Ping-mian. I have listened to his words and know of the deception and deceitfulness of the Bai-yi. Even in tens of thousands of their words, not one can be believed. I have observed that the man and the yi have rebelled and are watching, ready to make use of opportunities. They present a danger to our borders. It is appropriate to build defences in the Jin-chi, Chu-xiong, Pin Dian, Lan-cang and Jiang-zhong circuits. They must have high walls and deep moats, firm palisades and many cannons (多置大銃) for defence. When the yi come, they must not be fought with lightly, and deployment must be made as the situations dictate. Last year, the central Yun-nan military commander sent people to the Bai-yi and these people demanded much property and goods. They did not consider the seriousness of the situation and, displaying their power, acted in a martial manner and ridiculed the various man. Also, because the Jing-jiang Prince was without abilities, the Da-li seal was used to issue orders. All of these acts were wrong and even insulting to the Emperor and embarrassing to the Court. From now on, no-one is permitted to go to Ping-mian. It should be treated with coolness. If it sends a despatch, a brief response is to be made, but if it does not send any despatches, no actions are to be initiated. If they send tribute products, they are not to be received. Then in a few years, the territory of Lu-chuan will be included on the maps as part of the Empire. Ministers, you must firmly observe my words and must not be remiss in this!"