Entry

When Dao Pai-luo, a member of the native-official ruling family of the Meng-lian Chief's Office in Yun-nan, died, his wife Zhao Nang-meng was 25 years old. She subsequently maintained her chastity for 28 years without blemish. The Yun-nan regional military commissioner memorialized this fact. The Ministry of Rites re-submitted the memorial and suggested that, as an exception, without awaiting investigation and verification, she be awarded a testimonial of merit (旌表), so that the yi sentiments could be properly influenced. The Emperor said: "I consider all under Heaven to be a family. Upright minds and excellent reputations educate and change the customs of the yi. How can those who move towards propriety and righteousness not be rewarded and encouraged! Zhao Nang-meng, the wife of Dao Pai-luo of Meng-lian, has remained chaste. This is commendable. The responsible office should be ordered to decorate her dwelling, so that the distant yi will increasingly know how to move towards culture."