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The Emperor spoke to Xia Yuan-ji, the Minister of Revenue, and others, saying: "Jiao-zhi is in rebellion. The troops have laboured long and been there for many seasons. Although their grain rations are not depleted, their clothing and shoes will be worn out. We want them to exert themselves, but if we do not continue to supply them with their needs, how can we charge them with the task of achieving success! You are to order Guang-dong, Guang-xi, Hu-guang, Jiang-xi and Si-chuan to produce 50,000 items of clothing and shoes and provide these to the troops." Yuan-ji came forward and spoke, saying: "In the past, when Chu attacked the army of Xiao, many men were freezing. The ruler went on inspection and comforted them. The soldiers thus felt as if they were clad in wadded garments. At that time, even warm words were effective. Now that Your Majesty is exhibiting kindness for the troops in such a practical way, which of them will not feel roused! I know that the remnant bandits in Jiao-zhi will be easily subdued."