Entry

Li Guan, an assistant commissioner in the Yun-nan Surveillance Commission, memorialized on three matters: "1. Recently, because of the attacks on the border by the Lu-chuan bandits, the Teng-chong Command was established and 10,000 government troops have been deployed to build the city wall. However, over the years there has been constant fighting and repeated droughts and floods. Also, the scale of construction is huge and the grain stores are empty. It is requested that the work be temporarily stopped to allow strengths to be revived. 2. The remnant bandit Si Ji-fa has scurried away to Meng-yang and sent his younger brother Zhao Sai to present tribute and request sympathy. As he has repented his crimes and transgressions, he should be shown forgiveness. It should also be considered giving him a minor post and have him assist in controlling the region, as in this way there will be peace on the borders. 3. Jin-chi, Teng-chong, Jing-dong and Lin-an border the various yi such as Jiao-zhi, Che-li, Mu-bang and Ava-Burma. Many of the officials, troops and civilians enter these fan areas to buy and sell, and secrets are being divulged. We should, in the same way as as we have patrols at the passes and against the Japanese pirates, have each of the three offices of Yun-nan send an official to patrol and supervise the defences." The Emperor said: "In the Court's regulation of border defences and the soothing and pacifying of the yi, the key lies in consistent, long-term policies. The Ministry of War is to send a return despatch to the regional commander, grand defenders and other officials, requiring them to deliberate on plans. There must be peace in the region and the military and civilians should be in their place. No favouritism or bigotry is permitted as that will lead to calamities in the border areas."