Entry

The Jiao-zhi native-official company commander Chen Fu-zong and others advised: "We have heard that the way of a minister lies in loyalty and righteousness and although we were born in a secluded place, our hearts are truly and firmly bound by this idea. Thus, although Li Li engaged in rebellion, we were clear on the principle distinguishing loyalty from rebellion and firmly maintained the righteousness which should exist between ministers and their ruler. It was thus best for us to leave the ancestral graves and our relatives and follow the generals in returning to the Court. We were well received and were given official salaries to reward our loyalty and encourage our righteousness. Nothing more could have been done for us! I was apprehensive and ashamed day and night that I could not repay the kindness shown to me. Now, an office, intending to show compassion in accordance with the regulations, has confused us with the Jiao-zhi officials who are to be sent to He-nan and Shan-dong. In consequence, we will be separated from the Court. However, the reason we left our family village and came to the Court was to show our loyalty and righteousness. Now, on the one hand, we will be separated from the Court and, on the other, have already left our family village. Despite our loyalty and righteousness, we have not yet found peace. How can this be what we desired! We humbly hope that we will be permitted to remain in the capital so as to encourage the loyalty and righteousness of all ministers and subjects under Heaven." The Emperor said: "This is a mistake by the Ministry of Personnel. Specially order that he remain. All those who came to allegiance with Fu-zong are also to remain in the capital."