Entry

The methods for examining and selecting the translators in the Translators Institute were set down. Previously, the Ying-guo Duke Zhang Mao memorialized requesting that young men and National University students be selected for employment as translators in the Translators Institute. The Ministry of Rites deliberated and instructed the Han-lin Academy to investigate the situation. At this time, Liu Ji, a cabinet grand secretary, and others, advised: "In the replacement of instructors, the Ministry of Rites and ourselves should be permitted to search out and to recommend persons. As to the young men and National University students, the number should be determined by the amount of correspondence necessary in each of the departments...Of the eight departments, the Tatar department will have five National University students and 25 other young men, the Nu-zhen department will have four National University students and 18 other young men, the Western fan department will have two National University students and 15 other young men, the Indian (西天) department will have one National University student and two other men, the Muslim (回回) department will have two National University students and 10 other young men, the Bai-yi department will have two Directorate of Education students and 14 other young men and the Gao-chang and Ava-Burma departments will each have two Directorate of Education students and eight other young men." The deliberations were submitted to the Emperor, who approved them.