Entry

The Ministry of War re-submitted a memorial presented by the supreme commander and the grand coordinator of Guang-dong/Guang-xi: "The dong of the subprefectures of Xia-lei and Gui-shun adjoin the territory of Annam. In previous years, during the succession from the Chens to the Lis, a dispute began whereby there was mutual attacks and occupation by the two sides. However, as times changed, the people became settled in heart and in recent years there had been quite a long period of control and peace. Then, the Commander Mo Mao-qia was extravagantly covetous and his memorials importuned Heaven to listen. There were numerous official investigations and over 120 villages (村) were returned. Yet, he still engages in unrestrained attempts and makes unending requests. This is what is referred to as insatiable greed. Qia is very loyal and thus his request need not be specially approved just to show favour, as this will lead to the calamities caused by wrangling. In respect of the previously-mentioned occupied border territory, we should use either a stone gorge or a river as the border and handle all matters in accordance with the original decision. Convoluted compromises cannot be permitted. In this area there are two villages, Yin-bang and Long-pu by name. The people are yi and di. Also, there are the two villages of Ba-mi and Gu-gu, which are situated close to Shi-lin. It might be further considered giving these to them. Thereby, both sides will have an appropriate basis for observance." The Emperor specially approved this in order to demonstrate the Imperial wish to treat those in the distance with great liberality. It was also ordered that public announcements be issued noting that no further claims of infringement would be entertained.