Entry

A title patent was conferred upon Ruan Xun, the administration commissioner of the left in Jiao-zhi. His grandparents, parents and wife were also enfeoffed. In addition, Imperial orders of instruction were conferred upon Xun as follows: "In the past, when my Imperial ancestor, the Tai-zong Emperor, ascended the throne, he was concerned that Jiao-zhi was being greatly harmed by the Li bandits, who had killed their ruler and harmed the people. Thus, the Emperor raised an army to console the people and punish the rebels. When the army first arrived at the border, the intelligent inclined towards loyalty and moved towards culture, while the foolish harboured dual loyalties. You, Ruan Xun, had an extremely sincere heart, were pure in action and thought, were familiar with the fundamental principles, understood Heaven's ways and were determined in your sincerity and loyalty. Thus you gave your allegiance to the Court, devoted all your heart and all your energies to your work, were effective in your post, pacified the loyal and eliminated the rebellious and thereby brought many benefits. Many years went by but you did not become remiss. My Imperial ancestors placed importance on your loyal and meritorious service and repeatedly promoted you to official posts. When I respectfully received the mandate, I made efforts to continue my ancestors will. Now you have successfully completed nine years in your post and have come to the Court. I am greatly pleased with your meritorious service and thus am specially conferring this gracious order, extending even to your ancestors. Praise and glory are to be conferred upon all. The relationship between the ruler and minister must continue from beginning to end. I embody the will of my Imperial ancestors in my treatment of you, and you have extended your service to my Imperial ancestors in order to serve me. Respectfully attend to the duties of your office, remain sincere without wavering, maintain your reputation through reverence and thereby extend your blessings to your future generations. These special Imperial instructions of commendation are hereby conferred upon you. You are to respect them!"