Entry

The Ministry of War re-submitted a memorial of proposals on defending against the Japanese pirates submitted by the Censor Bai Bi: "...2. In places such as Long-qi and Song-yu, the regions are dangerous and the people are ferocious and they have always made a living by sailing across the seas to trade with the fan. Among them are powerful operators (豪右之家) who are always hiding and roving. They privately build large ships, supply them with weapons and food and jointly seek opportunities for profit. It is requested that the authorities be ordered to firmly prohibit such activities....6. As to the people who live on boats in the coastal bays, all able-bodied men should be ordered to report to government offices. Then one "bay leader" (澳長) and two precinct deputies (小甲) will be appointed and the surnames and personal names of the bay people will be recorded. If a boat is plundered, the bay leader and his deputies will lead their people in pursuing the attackers. Also the bay people should be prohibited from going to the ocean and having contact with the fan. 7. It is requested that rewards be made known by which if one captures a real pirate, one will be rewarded with three liang of silver, with appropriate increases for two or more pirates. Any booty thereby obtained should be given as rewards. If the goods of fan or yi who have violated the prohibitions are involved, half should be given to the troops. We must not harm the fighting spirit of the troops by being stingy with rewards..." The memorial was submitted and approved.