Entry

Ba-du-ge Ba-da-la, the Eastern king of the country of Sulu, proceeding on his return journey, died of illness when he reached De-zhou. When the death was announced, officials were sent to confer sacrifices and the authorities were commanded to build a tomb and to entomb him with the honours due to a king. The Emperor personally composed a text, and a tablet and grave alley were erected. The king's consort, concubines and servants, a total of 10 persons remained to watch his grave and were instructed to return home after three years. Also, an envoy was sent with Imperial orders of instruction for the king's eldest son Du-ma-han (Alt: Du-ma-she), noting:

"Your father knew how to respect China. He personally led his family members and attendant ministers across the sea for 10,000 li and came to Court. I looked on his sincerity with special affection, enfeoffed him as king, conferred bountiful rewards upon him and sent people to escort him back to his country. However, when the boat reached De-zhou, he died of illness. When I heard of this, I was deeply greived. The burial and sacrifices have already been arranged in accordance with the rites. You are the eldest son of the primary wife. Of the people in your country, it is appropriate that you inherit the title and keep peace in the border feudatory (藩服). Now I am especially enfeoffing you as the Eastern king of the country of Sulu. You should increasingly act in a loyal and upright manner and mu st increasingly respect the Way of Heaven so as to be worthy of my concern and in order to carry forward your father's ideals. Respect this!"