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卷三十七 列傳第七 宗室

Volume 37 Biographies 7: Imperial Clan

Chapter 37 of 晉書 · Book of Jin
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Chapter 37
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1
Prince Xian of Anping, Sima Fu.
2
Sima Fu, Prince Xian of Anping, styled Shuda, was the younger brother who followed Emperor Xuan (Sima Yi). At first Fu's eldest brother Lang had courtesy name Boda; Emperor Xuan had courtesy name Zhongda; Fu's younger brothers were Kui, courtesy Jida; Xun, Xiangda; Jin, Huida; Tong, Yada; and Min, Youda; all were renowned, so people at the time called them the 'Eight Worthies.' Warm, modest, and widely read in classical texts and history, he carried himself with unassuming grace. Through the Han collapse he and his brothers lived on the verge of ruin on the plainest fare, yet he never tired of his books. Forgiving by temperament and upright in reputation, he kept himself blameless and bore no grudges. When Yin Wu of Chenliu—a man celebrated empire-wide—was censured and punished, Fu called on him and stayed to share quarters and meals; observers admired his loyalty.
3
殿
Cao Zhi, Wei Prince Si of Chen, culled his staff for excellence and named Fu literary adjutant. Cao Zhi's brilliance made him imperious; Fu rebuked him sharply until, though initially offended, Cao Zhi came to apologize. He was promoted to palace attendant to the heir apparent. When Wei Emperor Wu died, the heir apparent wailed excessively in grief. Fu remonstrated, saying, 'The late emperor has passed away; the realm depends upon Your Highness as its lifeline. Above you must serve the ancestral temple; below you must serve the myriad states—how can you imitate the filial piety of a common man!' The heir apparent after a long while stopped and said, 'What you say is right.' The officials, thunderstruck by the news, had crowded together weeping without discipline or formation. Fu thundered in court: 'Now the late emperor has passed away and the realm is shaken; we should promptly install the successor to stabilize the realm within the seas—and yet you only weep!' With Minister He Qia he dispersed the disorderly crowd, secured the palace guard, ordered the obsequies, and invested the crown prince, who ascended as Emperor Wen.
4
便調 宿
When posts such as palace attendant were to be filled, the prince's old companions leaned on the selectors to secure their own appointments and shut out outsiders. Fu said, 'Though there be Yao and Shun, there must still be Ji and Xie. Now the successor has newly been established; we ought to advance and employ worthy men from within the realm—we still fear we cannot obtain enough; how can we wish to seize the occasion to recommend ourselves! If offices miss their proper appointments, even those who obtain them are not worth esteeming.' The slate was cleared and a fresh round of appointments chosen. He moved to secretariat attendant and duty regular attendant, billeted inside the palace; then yellow-gate gentleman with supernumerary chief commandant of cavalry.
5
Sun Quan had submitted as a tributary and offered to send a royal hostage and return the captive Yu Jin—but neither pledge appeared. The Son of Heaven asked Fu about it. Fu said, 'The former kings established the nine domains system—truly because the distant and wild regions are hard to win by virtue alone, and they did not hold them to Central States ritual. Your Majesty carries on the succession; distant peoples all come bearing tribute. Though Quan has not yet sent the hostage son and Yu Jin has not arrived, still it is fitting to treat him generously, nurture soldiers and horses, and observe how matters change. One must not on account of suspicion reproach and blame him, lest one wound the principle of cherishing those far away. From Sun Ce down to Quan, generations succeed one another; strength and weakness lie not in one Yu Jin; when Jin does not arrive, there ought to be another reason.' Yu Jin eventually appeared, detained by illness as Fu predicted, yet the hostage never followed. Once imperial troops stood on the river and challenged Wu's breach of faith, tribute from the south stopped altogether. He later served as Henei agrarian director, received a secondary marquisate within the passes, then governed Qinghe. Emperor Wen had created the revenue ministry for military supply; court opinion stressed ongoing campaigns meant every outlay needed restraint. When Emperor Ming succeeded to the throne and wished to employ Fu, he asked those around him, "Does he have his elder brother's manner?" They answered, "He resembles his elder brother." The Son of Heaven said, 'If I obtain two Sima Yis, what else need I worry about!' He was named minister of revenue.
6
Fu insisted victory required planning ahead. Each time Zhuge Liang struck Guanzhong the border garrisons buckled while reinforcements arrived too late; Fu urged standing two corps of twenty thousand foot and horse in readiness. With Guanzhong stripped by raids and short of grain and cloth, he relocated five thousand Ji cultivators to Shanggui to drill in winter and farm in summer. The western theater grew solvent while keeping the foe under watch. He rose to right vice director of the secretariat, marquis of Changping ting, then director. Under Cao Shuang's dictatorship and the cabal of Li Sheng, He Yan, and Deng Yang, Fu withdrew from daily administration and merely kept his head down. When Sima Yi struck down Shuang, Fu and Sima Shi sealed Sima Gate; for that service he became marquis of Changshe and palace attendant.
7
退
As Wu's Zhuge Ke pressed Xincheng, Fu took overall command of two hundred thousand defenders. He camped at Shouchun and sent Guanqiu Jian and Wen Qin forward. The generals wished to strike quickly; Fu said, 'In attacking, one borrows others' strength to accomplish merit, and moreover ought to rely on stratagem and cunning—one cannot contend by brute force. He waited more than a month before marching, and the Wu host melted away at the news.
8
'' '' '' ''''
When Wei Empress Mingdao died, discussion turned to the funeral banner inscription; some wished to omit the surname and write only Wei, some wished to write both; Fu held: "According to canonical correctness, none of these should be written. In general emperors all take their state's name as the title for All Under Heaven in order to distinguish themselves from former dynasties; it is not that they choose a pretty name to glorify themselves. Heaven is called August Heaven, then the emperor is called August Emperor; earth is called sovereign earth, then the empress is called August Empress. This is how they share heaven and earth's great titles and spread an unrivaled honorific name—they need not add the state's name to distinguish themselves nor wait to declare clan surname to display themselves. Therefore in Duke Yin's third year the Classic records 'In the third month, on gengxu, the August Heaven King died,' honoring him by calling him Heaven and not saying King of Zhou in order to distinguish him from the lords of the states. In the eighth month, on gengchen, Duke He of Song died—recording the state and personal name distinguishes him from the August Heaven King. In Duke Xiang's fifteenth year the Classic says 'Liu Xia meets the queen consort at Qi' without saying he meets the Zhou queen consort Jiang—thereby distinguishing her from the wives of the states. As for the states it says 'Lady Jiang arrived from Qi' and also says 'Bo Ji of Ji died'—recording state and surname distinguishes them from the August Heaven's queen. Examining this, the honored title August Emperor shines unrivaled—why add Wei? The honored title August Empress is displayed by posthumous title—why wait for the surname? Those who argue for writing Wei treat the celestial emperor's honor as equal to the feudal lords of old. Those who argue for writing the surname treat the celestial consort as equal to the wives of old. They violate the great meaning of the Classics and differ from the sage's clear institutions; they are not a way to instruct posterity or serve as an unchanging model for myriad generations." The court adopted Fu's reading.
9
西 西西退
He became minister of works. He replaced Wang Ling as grand commandant. After Jiang Wei struck Longyou and Yong inspector Wang Jing collapsed, Fu went west to steady Guanzhong with supreme command. Chen Tai and Deng Ai drove Jiang Wei back. He returned to court as grand mentor.
10
退
When the Duke of Gaoguixiang suffered violent death, none of the hundred officials dared go to the scene; Fu pillowed the corpse on his thigh, wept bitterly, and said, 'Those who killed Your Majesty are my crime.' He filed charges against the ringleaders. Though the empress dowager first demanded a commoner's funeral, Fu and his peers petitioned for kingly honors and won consent. By temperament he was exceedingly careful. Under Sima Yi's supremacy he habitually effaced himself. At every coup and enthronement thereafter he kept clear of the plotting. Sima Shi and Sima Zhao honored his seniority and never leaned on him. He was later advanced to duke of Changle.
11
輿殿
When Sima Yan took the throne the Wei emperor withdrew to Jinyong; Fu clasped his hand in farewell and wept uncontrollably. He said, 'On the day I die I shall indeed be a pure minister of Great Wei.' An edict said, 'The Grand Mentor's merit and virtue are vast and flourishing—what I look up to; by him brilliance guides instruction and calms the realm within the four seas—I wish to accord him rites that need not treat him as subject. Enfeoff him as prince of Anping with forty thousand households. Advance him to Grand Preceptor, bearer of credentials, and commander-in-chief of all military affairs inside and outside." Bureaus noted princes remaining at capital lacked complete households. The emperor ruled Fu's moral weight required a full household to model conduct for other royal uncles. Considering his kin, his hospitality, and modest stipend, the throne added two thousand rolls of silk. At court assembly his cart mounted the hall while Sima Yan bowed him in from the eastern stair. Seated, the emperor toasted him with familial warmth. Each time Sima Yan bowed, Fu dropped to his knees to forbid it. He received a mica litter and an azure parasol carriage.
12
Yet privilege brought him no joy—his face stayed shadowed with worry. At his deathbed his testament said, 'There was a Wei loyalist of Henei Wen county, Sima Fu, courtesy Shuda—not acting Yi Yin or the Duke of Zhou, neither withdrawing like Boyi nor compromising like Liuxiahui—who established himself and walked the Way from first to last as one; bury me in an unvarnished coffin with a single-layer outer shell and dress me in timely ordinary clothes.' He died in the eighth year of Taishi at ninety-three. Emperor Wu mourned three days in Taiji's east hall. An edict said, 'The prince's merit and virtue surpass the age; honor and favor were without peer; he dwelt in office at a hundred years—what I relied upon. I hoped he would last forever to consult and look up to his instruction—suddenly he has fallen and passed away; grief and longing cut deep. Let there be supplied for the funeral the eastern park warming coffin and secret fittings, one set of court dress, one suit of clothes, one hundred bolts of crimson silk, five hundred bolts each of silk and cloth, a million cash, and a thousand hu of grain. All measures implemented shall follow the precedent of Han Prince Xian of Dongping, Liu Cang." The clan honored his will and refused every gifted token. Sima Yan returned twice to bow in deepest sorrow. At interment he halted at the post station, bowed toward the catafalque, and moved every witness. The cortège drew imperial hearses, a hundred household guards, two thousand ushers, full musical escort, and enshrinement beside the royal ancestors. He had nine sons named Yong, Wang, Fu, Yi, Huang, Gui, Gui, Heng, and Jing—the fifth and sixth homophonous but written with different graphs.
13
The heir, Yong.
14
=
Sima Yong bore the courtesy name Zikui. While heir he served as colonel of infantry and palace attendant. He predeceased Sima Fu and was posthumously named assistant general who supports the state, with the epithet Zhen. His son Chong was named next-generation heir but died in childhood. In Taishi year nine, the throne invested Chong's younger brother Long, Marquis of Pingyang Precinct, as Prince of Anping. After four years, he died in Xianning year two with posthumous epithet Mu; without heirs, the principality was extinguished.
15
Yong's brother Sima Wang, Prince Cheng of Yiyang.
16
= 便 西
Sima Wang, Prince Cheng of Yiyang, styled Zichu, was adopted into uncle Sima Lang's line—open-handed and steady like his father. He rose from commandery accountant through filial-incorrupt recommendation and ministerial aide to Pingyang governor and Luoyang agrarian colonel. Campaigning with Sima Yi against Wang Ling earned him the Yong'an ting marquisate. Promoted general who guards the army, he exchanged his fief for Anle township and received supernumerary cavalry attendant rank. Cao Mao cultivated writers and thinkers; Wang joined Pei Xiu, Wang Chen, and Zhong Hui in the emperor's intimate circle at countless banquets. The sovereign's temper ran hot; men like Pei Xiu, holding palace posts, could answer an urgent summons immediately. As an outsider he was granted a rapid courier cart and five household guards. Sima Shi and Sima Zhao ruled behind the curtain without formal audiences—effective authority already rested with the future Jin house. Royal favor could not settle him; he won a western command as conquering-general with credentials over Yong and Liang. Across eight years his governance ran lucid and austere. After Jiang Wei's repeated strikes on Guanzhong, Wang's strategy stopped further incursions and steadied the northwest. His fief rose to marquis of Shunyang. Recalled as metropolitan guard, he headed the central army and commanded palace soldiers. He soon added champion-general rank with an independent staff. Shortly afterward he succeeded He Zeng as minister of education.
17
When Sima Yan took the throne Wang became prince of Yiyang at ten thousand households with a guard allotment of two thousand. In the third year of Taishi, an edict said, 'To esteem the worthy and employ the meritorious, to honor the clan and enrich kin—that is how one embodies the state and regulates transformation and serves as model for the hundred ministers. Moreover the weight of the terrace ministers rests in Heaven's offices; therefore Zhou established six duties and governance statutes came first. Minister of Education and Central Army Supervisor—by bright virtue as close kin across generations perfect their excellence; Grandfather and father founded enterprise, assisted the great mandate, went out to administer regional duty, entered to assist court governance; civil virtue was already manifest, martial merit widely displayed. Down to Our succeeding the throne you have aided the Way with clarity; fittingly mount the high minister and concurrently command the army—within assist the imperial house, without raise mighty awe; We advance your rank to Grand Commandant; Central Army Supervisor as before. Establish one army aide to the Grand Commandant, six military staff advisers, five cavalry majors. Also additionally establish ten official mounted escorts—together with the former thirty—and confer feather-canopy band and drum.'
18
退 退
Wu general Shi Ji's strike on Jiangxia threw the frontier into alarm. Wang led twenty thousand central troops to Longpi as the brace between two theaters, credentials in hand as grand commander. When Jing inspector Hu Lie routed Shi Ji, Wang stood down his army. Ding Feng's raid on Quepi drew Wang east again, though the enemy slipped away before he arrived. He received appointment as grand marshal. Sun Hao's thrust toward Shouchun sent Wang to the north bank of the Huai with twenty thousand foot and three thousand horse. Sun Hao withdrew and the mobilization ended. In the seventh year of Taishi, he died at sixty-seven amid lavish obsequies yet earned ridicule for having hoarded treasure despite a miserly reputation. Four sons survived him: Yi, Hong, Zheng, and Mao.
19
使
Yi rose to yellow-gate gentleman but died before his father. Zheng likewise died young. The title passed to Yi's son Qi. Qi also delighted in hoarding wealth without limit, sending three divisions of agents to trade in Jiao and Guang; after officials memorialized against him, an edict in Taikang year nine demoted him to Marquis of Sanzong Precinct. The throne then named Sima Wei of Zhangwu as Wang's heir. After Wei's execution Qi was restored as Prince of Jiyang to continue Wang's line.
20
Wang's son Sima Hong, Prince Ping of Hejian.
21
Sima Hong, Prince Ping of Hejian, styled Kongye, was adopted into uncle Yi's Changwu ting line. Under Wei he served as agrarian colonel, Yuanwu governor, and baron of Xiangben. When Sima Yan took the throne Hong became prince of Hejian. After twelve years in the position, he died in Xianning year two. He left two sons, Wei and Hun. Wei inherited and moved the fief to Zhangwu. Once Wei continued Sima Wang's Yiyang title, Hun was designated Hong's heir. Hun served as supernumerary cavalry attendant and died.
22
使 便 便
Luoyang's fall sent Hun's sons into Hu captivity. Youngest son Tao—even after succeeding Prince Que of Xincai—was seized alongside his brothers. After fleeing south he quarreled with his adoptive mother the Xincai dowager. In 319 he petitioned to return to his birth line while brothers remained in Liaodong and Zhangwu lacked heirs. The dowager sued; the court referred the case to the ministry of rites. Minister He Xun argued: 'Zhangwu and Xincai alike inherit an unbroken mandate of one state; by principle one may not supplant one's root lineage for collateral kin out of order. Accordingly Tao having already received appointment as someone's heir must wait until he certainly has no brothers left and his original state is forever cut off—only then may he return to those who bore him. Now brothers are distant—one cannot say there are none; though roads are blocked they are again not unreachable wastes. Moreover the Xianbei defer to commands; envoys do not cease. Naturally it is fitting to issue edicts down to Liaodong following the precedent of Liu Qun, Lu Chen, and others, dispatch and order them to return and succeed their root enfeoffments. This means Tao now cannot simply abandon the house he succeeded." Emperor Yuan's edict said, 'Though Tao went out to be raised he naturally has a birth mother. The Dowager Princess of Xincai treated him very coldly; Tao held to his intent in this way. If she does not heed him in the end there will be wrangling and again it will be impossible. Now let Us comply with what he insists on and let him return and inherit Zhangwu."
23
Tao rose to supernumerary cavalry attendant, died, and Xiu inherited. Xiu fled with Prince Xiong of Pengcheng into Su Jun's camp. When Su Jun fell Xiu was already slain on the field. Eight-year-old Zhen escaped punishment as a minor. In the sixth year of Xianhe, he succeeded to the title and rose to director of the imperial clan. Without issue he was succeeded by Fan zhi, son of Prince Qin of Hejian—later promoted to roving-strike general. He died; Xiu inherited the title. In the first year of Yixi, Xiu governed Guiyang commandery. Married to Huan Zhen's sister, Xiu panicked when Zhen rebelled, plotted in turn, and was executed—the principality struck from the rolls.
24
Hong's son Sima Wei.
25
使
Sima Wei, styled Jingyao, first inherited Hong. In Xianning year three, his fief was transferred to Zhangwu. In Taikang year nine, he continued Sima Wang's Yiyang princedom. Savage and unscrupulous, he hitched himself to Sima Lun. Late in Yuankang he helped Sima Lun wrench the seal from Emperor Hui alongside Luo Xiu, then took the palace secretariat. When Lun was defeated Emperor Hui resumed right rule and said, 'Api twisted my fingers and seized my seal cords—cannot fail to kill him.' Api' was Wei's infant name. Wei was put to death.
26
Hong's brother Sima Zheng, Prince Mu of Sui.
27
When Yi died Zheng became heir of the Yiyang house. He commanded southern gentlemen and held Qingquan marquis but predeceased Sima Wang; upon Wang's death the court posthumously named him Champion General. Emperor Wu carved out Sui county from Yiyang for his posthumous princedom. Mai succeeded him. In 288 Yiyang's Pinglin canton enlarged Mai's domain to prince of Sui commandery.
28
Zheng's brother Sima Mao, prince of Jingling.
29
Sima Mao, styled Kongwei, began as marquis of Leling ting on the prince's military staff. When Sima Yan took the throne Mao became prince of Dongping at 3,097 households. He transferred to the capital as supernumerary cavalry attendant and ministry counselor.
30
駿 駿 駿
Sima Mao excelled at sycophancy and curried favor with Yang Jun. Jun's fall should have cost Mao his life, yet Sima You's friendship shielded him. He soon rose to grand herald with supernumerary palace attendant rank. Sima You grasped for centralized power and clashed with Prince Liang of Runan. Emperor Hui blamed Sima You for half-hearted action against Jun, cashiered both men, and banished Mao to his domain. He hoarded treasure and flouted sumptuary law with pretensions beyond his rank. Sima Lun's coup brought Mao back to court. Once loyalist armies rose Lun named Mao metropolitan guard and overall commander. Lun's fall stripped Mao of his posts. Under Sima Jiong's regency Sima You returned as vice director and nominated Mao as pacifier-general for Xu based at Xiapi. Sima Ying's turn at power promoted Mao to metropolitan guard.
31
使 西 使
The northern expedition made Mao chariot-and-cavalry general at Ye with unchanged theater command. After Dangyin Sima Yue sought refuge at Xiapi; Mao shut the gates and sent him home. When Huiyi moved west Sima Yue mustered men to recover him; Mao panicked. Chief Clerk Wang Xiu advised saying, 'Prince of Donghai carries heavy prestige among the imperial clan; now he will raise righteous arms—you ought to yield Xu Province to him; this is the beauty of yielding precedence.' Mao complied, seized Yan under emergency orders as chariot-and-cavalry chief, and reported to the throne. At Chang'an the court sent Liu Qian to seal the arrangement.
32
使
Fearing Gou Xi, Mao armed Liu Qian with a forged warrant for Xi's death. Though Gou Xi had yielded, Mao's exactions broke the commanderies. Sima Xiao restored Gou Xi and shifted Mao to Qing theater. Mao rejected the posting, broke with the eastern league, and joined Liu Qiao. Tian Hui routed Mao, who bolted for his fief. Once Luoyang welcomed Huiyi back Mao sued for entry.
33
祿
Huai renamed him prince of Jingling and grand master of splendid horses. Sima Yue took Yu and left heir Pi and He Lun watching the inner court. Mao urged Huai to strike Yue, then struck He Lun and failed. Huai blamed Mao, who ran for his life. Only after Yue died did Mao surface. Luoyang's fall left him slain by rogue soldiers.
34
Fu, Prince Cheng of Taiyuan—Sima Wang's younger brother.
35
Late in Wei Sima Fu governed Yewang. When Emperor Wu received the abdication, he enfeoffed him as Prince of Bohai with 5,379 households; in Taishi year two, he went to his domain. He later served as Commandant of Guards, went out as Gentlemen-General of the East, transferred to Gentlemen-General of the South, and in Xianning year three was moved to Prince of Taiyuan, supervising all military affairs in Bingzhou. In Taikang year four he entered court; in year five he died and was posthumously granted General Who Guards the North, and in Yongping year one he was further granted General of the Guards and the privileges of Opening an Office Equal to the Three Excellencies. Heir Hong held supernumerary cavalry attendant then moved the title to Zhongqiu. Three years on Shuo inherited.
36
Yi—Fu's younger brother.
37
Sima Yi, styled Zishi, rose young to major among the palace guards. He died before the Wei-Jin transition; Yong's collateral heir Cheng took Nangong county. When Cheng died You continued the line, ending Cheng's branch.
38
Huang, Prince Xian of Xiapi—Yi's younger brother.
39
西
Sima Huang, styled Ziming, began as Wushi ting marquis, yellow-gate gentleman, Xi'an baron, then Dongguan governor. Sima Yan invested him at Xiapi with 5,176 households in 266.
40
使西 駿
Filial, modest, and scrupulous, he won wide esteem among kinsmen. He later commanded long waters and southern gentlemen. In the ninth year an edict said, 'Southern Gentlemen General Prince of Xiapi Huang is pure, bright, and upright; his conduct is lucid and clean; talent suffices for governance and he possesses civil and military stratagem. Let Huang be credential-bearing commissioner supervising Ning and Yi military affairs, General Who Pacifies the West, and concurrently Inspector of Yi Province.' Pleading illness he stayed north and instead took minister of writing and right vice director. Years later he commanded Qing and Xu from the east. Hui made him chariot-and-cavalry chief with supernumerary cavalry attendant. During Yang Jun's purge he guarded Dongye Gate then acting minister director. He rose to minister of works plus palace attendant, keeping director duties. In the sixth year of Yuankang, Death brought posthumous grand mentor.
41
His sons were Pou and Chuo. Pou predeceased; frail Chuo took Liangcheng while Taiyuan prince Fu's third son Wei inherited the main title. He died young at palace attendant and minister of writing; Shao followed.
42
Gui, Prince Lie of Taiyuan—Huang's younger brother.
43
Sima Gui, styled Ziquan, held Changle ting then Guishou township under Wei. He rose through display-might general and palace librarian to Gushi viscount. When Emperor Wu received the abdication, he enfeoffed him as Prince of Taiyuan with 5,496 households; in Taishi year two, he went to his state. Year four brought court robes and eastern gentleman-general rank. In the tenth year he died; an edict said, 'Gui's heart was loyal and earnest; intellect and capacity were elegant and bright. He successively held civil and military posts and had achievements in handling affairs. Going out he faced his enfeoffment lands and barbarians and Chinese cherished allegiance; guarding Xu capital his designs merit record. Unluckily he died young; We greatly mourn him. Now that burial is near, let him be posthumously invested as Former General." Heir Yong shifted the fief to Hejian—a fuller life appears in a separate biography.
44
Prince Yuan of Gaoyang, Sima Gui—brother of Prince Lie Sima Gui.
45
Sima Gui, styled Zhang, showed early promise as Gaoyang village marquis. He governed Henan, rose to Zhenyang viscount, then serving yellow-gate gentleman. Sima Yan invested Gaoyang at 5,570 households. He commanded northern gentlemen and Ye defenses. In the sixth year of Taishi, Court duty moved him to ask leave to nurse elderly Sima Fu. He took the ministry then right vice director. Year ten brought supervised obsequies and posthumous chariot-and-cavalry honors matching three-dukes rites.
46
Celebrated publicly, he won uncommon imperial grief. Without issue Taiyuan prince Fu's son Ji inherited. Ji had held the title for five years when he died in Xianning year four, receiving the posthumous epithet Ai. Having no son, in Taikang year two an edict made Song, son of Yong, heir of the heir apparent of Prince Gui of Taiyuan, continue Ji's line and enfeoffed him as Marquis of Zhending County.
47
Heng, Prince Xiao of Changshan—Gui's younger brother.
48
Sima Heng, styled Ziping, held Deyang village under Wei. Promotion brought Runyang viscount and commandant for princess consorts. Sima Yan named him Changshan prince at 3,790 households. Childless after two years Yong's fourth son Dun succeeded.
49
Jing, Prince Shun of Pei—Heng's younger brother.
50
Sima Jing, styled Ziwen, began as Leyang ting marquis. He served as grand counselor of remonstrance. Sima Yan invested Pei at 3,400 households. After holding the title for eleven years, he died in Xianning year one, and his son Tao succeeded.
51
Quan, Prince Mu of Pengcheng.
52
輿
Sima Quan, King Mu of Pengcheng and styled Ziyu, was the son of Sima Kui, Marquis of Dongwucheng and governor of Lu under Wei, who was Sima Yi's younger brother. He opened as supernumerary chariot master. Sima Yan made him Pengcheng prince at 2,900 households. He commanded Ye's northern gentleman garrison. Mid-Taishi brought court investiture robes. 275 death; Yuan prince Zhi followed. His offices ran rear general, academy libationer, coach minister, palace attendant, and ministry. Named east-pacifier for Yangzhou replacing Yun at Shouchun, he never took up post. Tradition claims he aided Yun against Sima Lun and died of anxiety. The court added posthumous chariot-and-cavalry honors and boosted his fief by fifteen thousand households. Prince Kang Sima Shi rose to southern gentleman-general with pacifying-south command, annexed Fan and Xue from Lu, and held twenty-three thousand households. After his death Xiong inherited but died with Su Jun's rebellion; Hong, son of Shi, continued the line.
53
The great-grandson Hong.
54
祿 殿 祿 祿
Sima Hong, styled Weide, began as duke of Tangyi county. Late in Jianxing Sima Rui assigned Hong to continue Prince Ju of Gaomi's line. After enthronement Hong became supernumerary cavalry attendant, then aide-army colonel and former general. Xiong's execution brought Hong back into his birth house. He directed the academy with supernumerary cavalry rank, then headed the imperial clan office and palace library. Windstroke unsettled his temperament. He would draft memorials and parade them past the high ministers. He sealed his gates, tried to return insignia, and wrote a rhapsody proclaiming reclusion. The court named him splendid-carriages grand master with clan-director duties while keeping cavalry attendant. Madness drove him to reckless rides, assaults on yamen, beatings of staff, and foul-mouthed outbursts against everyone. He rammed a cart through the main palace gate to Taiji's steps. Censor-in-chief Che Guan demanded Hong's removal and house arrest in his domain. Emperor Cheng's edict said, 'The prince by bright virtue as a lush kinsman occupies the weight of clan tutor—he ought to spread the Way and nurture virtue and quiet his conduct. Yet lately his roaming has been frequent and he braves wind and dust. Let officials under his household each according to duty attend him and not allow the prince again such labor. Inner and outer offices each must be careful of their sphere. The prince may be relieved of the posts of Regular Attendant, Guanglu, and clan tutor; the carts and oxen formerly supplied may be withdrawn; grant rice, cloth, bed, and curtain to nurse his illness." He died in Xiankang year eight and was posthumously granted Regular Mounted Attendant and Grand Master of Splendid Happiness with Gold Seal and Purple Ribbon. He left sons Xuan and Jun.
55
Xuan inherited. Household reform caught Xuan hiding five families; Huan Wen sent him to justice. He won amnesty and rose to secretariat gentleman. Hong zhi inherited and became supernumerary cavalry attendant. Shao zhi followed. Chong zhi followed. Ji zhi followed. The Liu Song takeover ended the principality.
56
Hong's son Jun.
57
Prince Gong Sima Jun, styled Daodu, continued Lue of Gaomi and rose to supernumerary cavalry attendant. Chun zhi governed Linchuan and served agriculture and tutor bureaus. Hui zhi inherited. Late in Yixi he doubled as grand commandant tending western tombs. Liu Song shuttered the fief.
58
Sima Tai, Prince Wenxian of Gaomi.
59
西 使西 西 西西駿 駿駿
Sima Tai, styled Zishu, was Sima Quan's brother—Yang ting marquis, Yangdi magistrate, Fufeng governor. Sima Yan made him Longxi prince at 3,200 households with roving-strike command. He shepherded Yan with hawk-banner general rank. Ning-Yi pacifying-west orders went unfulfilled on grounds of illness. He succeeded brother Quan as pacifying-north chief at Ye. He also held pacifying-west charge over Guanzhong. Early Taikang brought palace posts and Ye gate command until illness retired him. He later succeeded Sima Huang as left vice director. He was sent out as General Who Guards the West, concurrently Colonel Protector of the Western Rong and Bearer of the Staff, replacing Prince Jun of Fufeng as commander of Guanzhong military affairs, but returned to the capital because of illness. Yongxi opened with minister of works and heir-apparent junior tutor posts. Jun's purge handed Tai the camp plus two thousand five hundred foot and five hundred horse. He bargained the guard down to one thousand foot and one hundred horse.
60
When Prince of Chu Wei was seized Tai drew up troops intending to rescue him; Libationer Ding Sui remonstrated saying, 'You are chief minister—you cannot move rashly. Moreover midnight crisis requires sending men to investigate clearly.' Tai agreed. Wei's fall made Tai acting minister chief, then grand commandant with Gaomi at ten thousand households. In the ninth year of Yuankang, Posthumous grand mentor followed his death.
61
Chaste and retiring, he shunned entertainment and concubines. Despite ministerial income he dressed and ate like a poor scholar. At audience strangers mistook him for a common official. Filial in mourning and deferential, he set clan standard. Only Tai and Sima Huang won esteem for self-control. Neither dispensed charity widely yet none surpassed their discipline. Four sons: Yue, Teng, Lue, Mo. Yue appears elsewhere. Teng was adopted out; Lue inherited.
62
Prince Xiao Sima Lue.
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使 退
Sima Lue, styled Yuanjian, echoed his father's modest courtesy. Yuankang saw Lue among Minhuai's cultivated companions with Hua Heng. He successively served as Yellow-Gate Gentleman Attendant, Regular Palace Attendant, and Director of the Palace Library; then he was sent out as General Who Pacifies the South, Bearer of the Staff, and commander of the armies south of the Mian, before being promoted to General Who Pacifies the North and commander of Qing Province military affairs. He bullied Cheng Mu aside and seized Qingzhou himself. Yongxing opened with Liu Gen's Donglai rising that drove Lue from Linzi to Liaocheng. Huai made him credential-bearing Jing commander with three-dukes parity staff. Refugees Wang Di and Hao Luo mustered thousands at Guanjun. Cui Kuang's column fell to Wang Di's stratagem. Cao Shu drove Kuang forward again. Kuang fled mid-battle; unsupported Shu died fighting. Hong pardoned Kuang; Han Song helped force Wang Di's capitulation. He soon gained full staff plus supernumerary cavalry attendant. In the third year of Yongjia, Posthumous attendant and grand commandant honors preceded Ju's succession. Childless, he passed to Hong from Pengcheng's Kang line. Hong reverted to his birth house; Jun kept Lue's line alive.
64
Lue's elder brother Sima Teng, Prince Wuai of Xincai.
65
Sima Teng, Prince Wuai of Xincai, courtesy name Yuanmai, was appointed Supernumerary Cavalier Attendant when young and enfeoffed as Duke of Dongying. He served successively as governor of Nanyang and Wei Commandery, was praised as competent wherever he served, was summoned as Director of the Imperial Clan, promoted to Minister of Ceremonies, and then transferred as Bearer of the Staff, General Who Pacifies the North, commander of all military affairs in Bing Province, and inspector of Bing Province. Hui's expedition against Sima Ying collapsed. Teng joined Wang Jun executing He Yan then marched on Ying. Xianbei cavalry under Wang Jun shattered Wang Bin while Teng held the rear. Ying fled west with Huiyi while Teng gained pacifying-north promotion. Yongjia named him chariot-and-cavalry chief at Ye. Welcoming the throne earned the Xincai princedom.
66
鹿
Leaving Bing he paused at Zhending. Snow melted oddly at his gate; digging revealed a jade horse sent to court. Ji Sang's gang marched under Ying's tablet to threaten Ye. Teng said, 'I was at Bing seven years and barbarians besieging the city could not overcome it. Ji Sang petty bandits—what worth worry.' The raid overwhelmed him; fleeing lightly armed he fell to Feng. Four sons survived: Yu, Jiao, Shao, Que. Yu avenged his father driving Feng into the river. The bloodbath wiped Julu officials and refugee clans at Ye. Ye's arsenals stood empty yet Teng hoarded wealth. His miserly handfuls of grain and cloth bought no loyalty and brought disaster. Gou Xi's relief sent Ji Sang back toward Pingyang. Midsummer heat left bodies unidentifiable; Sima Teng and his three sons never received decent burial. Younger-son Sima Que inherited.
67
Sima Que, styled Sian, commanded Yu from Xuchang as eastern gentleman-general. Shi Le killed him at Yongjia's close. First Tao continued his line; later Bi of Runan replaced him. In the first year of Taixing, Miao followed Bi without issue of his own. Huang inherited as supernumerary cavalry attendant. Huan Wen's coup reduced Huang to commoner exile in Hengyang. Chong continued Miao yet fell to household slaves; Hui followed. Liu Song ended the fief.
68
Sima Mo, Prince of Nanyang—Lue's brother.
69
西
Mo, styled Yuanbiao, studied hard alongside Sima Rui and Sima Xiao. He began as Pingchang duke. Late Hui's reign brought chariot master through heir staff to supernumerary cavalry attendant. Ying's flight west left Mo northern gentleman at Ye under Yue. Yongxing opened with Gongshi Fan's siege and traitors inside Ye. Ding Shao and Gou Xi lifted the siege and routed Fan. He became guarding-east marshal at Xuchang. Promoted to Prince of Nanyang. Yongjia gave him four-province western command replacing Sima Yong. He memorialized Ding Shao with a standing stone.
70
西 使 退
Famine cannibalism plague and brigandage ravaged Guanzhong. He melted ritual bronzes for grain swaps—widely condemned. Yue summoned Mo to minister of works under Fu Zhi. Mo's strategist Chunyu Ding advised Mo saying 'Guanzhong is heaven's storehouse—the ground of hegemons. Now unable to soothe and returning damages your renown; moreover your lordship's brothers launched great affairs yet both remain at court—if you strengthen yourself you incur monopolizing guilt; if weak you fall under others' control—not to your advantage.' Mo stayed put ignoring the recall. He sent heir Bao to Shanggui against Pei Bao's block. Chen An drove Pei Bao to Anding. Jia Ya's welcome drew Xie Ban until Ya fled to Lushui. Same year brought grand commandant and supreme command.
71
使 使使
Luoyang's fall and Zhao Ran's pique handed Liu Cong an opening. Liu Can and Zhao Ran routed Ding before Chang'an. Troops deserted; granaries emptied; army libationer Wei Fu said 'Matters are desperate—early surrender can spare you.' Mo yielded to Zhao Ran. Ran humiliated Mo then handed him to Liu Can. Can executed Mo and gifted his wife to Zhang Ben. Bao inherited.
72
使 西
Sima Bao, styled Jingdu, loved letters young. First named heir of Nanyang. Mo's death found Bao still on Qi heights. After Ya and Pei Bao fell Bao seized Qin as self-declared grand marshal with full bureaucracy. Longyou tribes rallied; Zhang Shi offered tribute. Min appointed him right chancellor over Shanxi. Soon ceremonial prime minister followed.
73
使
Chen An joined Bao and led picked troops against Qiang with royal favor. Zhang Chun plotted against Chen An; Bao refused. Assassins wounded An who kept sending tribute from Longcheng.
74
使
Min's flight led Bao to claim Jin kingship. Famine drove Zhang Chun to evacuate Bao toward Nan'an. Chen An took Qin title while serving Liu Yao. They aimed for Zhang Shi via Sang. Zhang Shi's escort meant to intercept him. He died ill at twenty-seven. He boasted eight hundred jin bulk. Somnolence and impotence plagued him. Childless, Zhan continued his house under Zhang Chun. Chen An crushed Zhang Chun and sent Zhan to his death at Liu Yao's court. Chen An buried Bao as emperor with Yuan epithet.
75
Sima Sui, Prince Kang of Fanyang.
76
Sima Sui, styled Zidu, was Quan's youngest brother—grand counselor first. He received enfeoffment in Taishi year one and held the title for fifteen years. He died in Xianning year five, and his son Xiao succeeded him.
77
Son Xiao.
78
Sima Xiao, styled Wuhui, was a famed scholar-orator. Clan selection brought cavalry attendant then ministry posts. He commanded Yu from Xuchang southward through pacifying and expedition ranks.
79
退西 使 西
Yong's heir plot collapsed under Wang Jun forcing return east. Xiao, together with King Mao of Dongping, General Who Guards the East Zhou Fu, and others, submitted words, saying: Since Minhuai was harmed, the imperial heir has not been established. Weighty responsibility was entrusted to the former minister, and he then lost the duty of a subject. Therefore in the previous year the Grand Steward and we your servants long considered that the deputy of the altars of soil and grain could not remain vacant for long, and for this reason we jointly proposed King Ying of Chengdu to be deputy to the state. After receiving this weighty charge, he was unable to bear it. "Do not employ petty men," yet he made them his trusted intimates. Flesh-and-blood kin should have been treated with thick affection, yet suspicion and frivolity arrived repeatedly; dangerous and slanting men should have been kept distant, yet slanderous talk destroyed conduct. All this was because we your servants were neither perceptive nor clear-sighted and lost the one on whom we relied. We then caused Your Majesty to err in lowering and granting rank; even if you executed us, it would not be enough to apologize to all under Heaven. Now the great carriage has returned to the palace, civil and military offices are empty, institutions are ruined and broken, and nothing remains. Although we your servants are inferior, we are enough to help correct the royal house. But talk on the roads says that Zhang Fang is not of one mind with us. We both regret that differences are arising where he is, and also because the Grand Steward is sincere in virtue and truly principal, visible to all who look up to him; whenever righteousness and integrity are at stake, he always stands first among the great allies of the altars of soil and grain. Zhang Fang received his direction and instruction and showed integrity for the state. In last year's action, he had death before him and no second loyalty. He is therefore a good general of the Grand Steward and a loyal subject of Your Majesty. It is only because his nature is forceful and resolute and he does not understand adaptation that he kept to his former intention and has already caused confusion. Yet when we withdraw and think on it, this is already his unchanging integrity, and he also worries that after affairs reverse, he will be blamed by all under Heaven; therefore he has not immediately returned west. When the root of the matter is traced, there is in fact no deep blame. We your servants have heard that enlightened rulers of earlier generations always preserved and protected meritorious ministers and made blessings flow to their descendants. Since the recent troubled period, none of Your Majesty's meritorious ministers has been preserved. This is not only because the men were all inferior; their incurring disaster has truly come from the court's policies losing what was fitting and from failure to tolerate and forgive one another. To lose accumulated years of merit because of one day's fault both violates the Zhouli canon of deliberating on merit and makes the people of the realm no longer dare to give their utmost loyalty for Your Majesty. These words of ours are not only for one Zhang Fang; they are truly a long-range plan for the altars of soil and grain, wishing to let meritorious ministers long keep wealth and honor. In our foolish view, it is fitting to entrust the Grand Steward with responsibility west of the passes. Affairs in that region are weighty, and from provinces and commanderies downward, selection, recommendation, appointment, and assignment should all look up to him for completion. As for great affairs of the court, abolitions, establishments, reductions, and additions, each should be consulted with him. This would be Your Majesty carrying out again in the present age the meaning of the two regional chiefs reporting on their duties and of Zhou and Shao dividing Shaan. Send Fang back to his commandery, let the assembled nobles extend their intentions, and in time settle the royal house. As for the offices added to Fang, we request that all be as before. Then loyal ministers and righteous men will have encouragement, and meritorious ministers will surely be preserved. Minister over the Masses Rong is a worthy of a different surname. Minister of Works Yue is the hope of the imperial clan. Both are loyal to the state and love the ruler, careful and reverent, and should manage key affairs and be entrusted with court government. General Who Pacifies the North Wang Jun is a descendant of one who assisted the mandate; he leads himself according to the Way, is loyal, bright, clear, and correct, and is recommended by those near and far. In a great undertaking like today's, he truly has merit in settling the altars of soil and grain; this is why we sigh in admiration and return high praise to him. Jun should be specially exalted and honored in order to meet the hopes of the multitude, then pacify You and the northern lands and long serve as the northern shield. We your servants will exhaust our strength as defending walls and act as screens for the imperial house, while Your Majesty lets your robes hang and folds your hands, and the four seas will correct themselves. Then the enterprise of the Four Ancestors will surely flourish today, and the radiance of sun and moon, once dimmed, will shine again. We beg you to lower threefold thought and examine what we your servants have said. You may also show our memorial westward to the Grand Steward.
80
Again memorializing 'Chengdu Prince lost the Way misled by wicked favorites judging the prince's person ought not be deeply blamed. Moreover former emperor's bodily heirs Your Majesty's junior brothers since Yuankang executions match in toll truly why realm churns and why we ache. Now deposing Chengdu changing enfeoffment one canton he ought surely consent. If deposition soon brings calamity it wounds Your Majesty's compassionate grace and lets far and near forever say the ducal kin lack flesh-and-blood feeling—truly our inward shame without face before the realm. We beg Your Majesty to perceive our loyal sincerity." Xiao marched to Xingyang first.
81
西 西
Western flight triggered blood pact naming Yue leader with Xiao commanding Hebei and Yu. Liu Qiao seized Xu defying Yue. Wang Jun backed Xiao as Ji commander with materiel. Xiao rallied Ji forces and crushed Liu Qiao south of the river. Yong killed Zhang Fang after Qiao's defeat. Yue and Xiao retrieved Huiyi while Yong ran. They restored Luoyang naming Xiao minister of education. In the third year of Yongxing, he died suddenly at thirty-seven. Childless Li continued Mo's line and died at Chang'an.
82
Sima Sui, Prince Hui of Jinan.
83
Sima Sui, styled Zibo, was Sima Xun's son—Sima Yi's nephew. Under Wei he rose from secondary marquis to Pingchang ting through army posts. In the second year of Jingyuan, Shifted to Wucheng township marquis guarding Ye as northern gentleman. Five-rank reform made him Zhu'e baron then champion general. Sima Yan created Jinan prince. He died in the second year of Taishi. Sons Dan and Ji. Dan succeeded to the title, and in Xianning year three he was transferred to be Prince of Zhongshan. Dan died childless same year; Ji followed. Ying named Ji bulwark general alongside Shi Xi to stop Wang Jun; Ji died on the field. Without heirs the principality ended.
84
Great-grandson Xun.
85
便
Linghu Ni adopted young Xun after Chang'an fell. Reaching adulthood skilled horse archery shooting both hands returning from west of the pass self-listed saying 'I am senior palace attendant Xun's great-great-grandson champion general Prince Hui of Jinan Sui's great-grandson governor of Lueyang Guan's son' thereupon appointed Herald Superintendent famed courage.
86
西退 使 退
Yu Yi at Xiangyang asked Xun to fill the Liang post vacated by aide Huan Xuan's death. He first garrisoned the west town then pulled back to Wudang. Shi Hu's death unraveled the north; Yongzhou strongmen raced word to Sima Xun. He crossed Luogu, camped near Chang'an, sent Liu Huan to raid the capital and took Hecheng. All Guanzhong slew Hu's officials to rally to Xun. Too weak to hold ground he retreated to Liangzhou. Zhang Ju's eastern Long grip drew Xun back into Chang'an. Du Hong and Zhang Ju feuded; Hong played on Xun's fear of Ju's strength: "If you do not kill Zhang Ju, Guanzhong will not belong to the state." Xun feasted Ju and slew him at table. Ju's brother rallied from Chiyang, fought Xun to stalemate, then sued for peace back in Liang. Huan Wen's operation sent Xun up Ziwu until Fu Xiong broke him at Nüwa.
87
西 西 西
Promotion brought subduing-captive rank, Guanzhong oversight, tribal colonel, and Tongji ting. He executed aides and notables on whim, sometimes with his own bow. The west dreaded his savagery. He eyed Yi Province for a throne of his own. Huan Wen placated him naming Kang Hanzhong shepherd. Plot ready, he hesitated while Zhou Fu lived. Fu's death opened Jiange to his army. He murdered remonstrators and proclaimed himself dual shepherd and Chengdu king. Zhu Xu crushed him and sent his severed head east with kin and staff.
88
Sima Xun, Prince Gang of Qiao.
89
Sima Xun, styled Ziti, was the son of Sima Jin, Sima Yi's younger brother. Under Wei he rose through marquis ranks to light-chariot general and guard superintendent on the eastern army staff. Five ranks moved him to Jingyang baron. Sima Yan made him prince of Qiao at 4,400 households. He died in the second year of Taishi. Sons Sui and Cheng. Prince Ding Sima Sui inherited. When the heir was lost to Shi Le, Sima Rui transferred the succession to Sima Cheng.
90
Prince Min Sima Cheng.
91
Sima Cheng, styled Jingcai, was steadfast and purposeful young. He rose from chariot commandant to display-might rank guarding Anding. He accompanied Hui east as roving-strike general. Yongjia turmoil sent him toward Shan Jian then alone to Wuchang. Sima Rui's Yangzhou command brought Cheng to Jiankang as army adviser. Min's dragon-leaping summons went unanswered. As Jin prince Rui re-created Cheng prince of Qiao. Taixing opened with camp-cavalry colonel, bulwark rank, and left army command.
92
宿 便
Frugal in office he kept no side rooms. Soon supernumerary cavalry attendant while keeping bulwark and left army posts. Wang Dun's memorials showed contempt for the throne. Emperor night summoned Cheng showing Dun memorial saying 'Wang Dun recent years position duty suffices yet demands without cease speech reaching here—what shall be done?' Cheng said 'If Your Majesty does not early cut him disaster will arise.' Emperor wished to plant screens meeting Dun memorial appointing Xuancheng interior governor Shen Chong Xiangzhou emperor told Cheng 'Xiangzhou south Chu peril-firm at upper stream's vital controlling three provinces' convergence is country where arms apply. Now assigning uncle to dwell there—how about it?' Cheng said 'Your servant luckily leaning on lowest branch body answering night guard lacking rushing labor repeatedly receiving excessive favor morning evening self-sharpening thinking repaying heaven's virtue. What lord commands only strength is regarded—dare there be declining! Yet Xiangzhou after Shu bandits' remnant persons things withered if above relying heavenly awe obtaining what descends compared reaching three years please follow martial service. If this cannot be achieved, then even reducing my body to ashes would be of no benefit." Thereupon edict said 'Now kings embody heaven regulating things—without host of talents insufficient to accomplish their tasks. Abroad, establish worthy and wise men to raise the court's reputation; within, harmonize with close kin to broaden the protective screens. Therefore Taigong enfeoffed Qi Boyin dwelt Lu—the former kings' shining statutes ancient-modern penetrating righteousness. Our Jin opened foundation feudal states gazing one another—thereupon invested Prince Langye Wu commanding east Xia. Runan Wencheng summed Huai Xu. Fufeng Liang princes alternately held Guanzhong. Down to Dongying served as Bingzhou steward. Now ducal kin though sparse not matching former times—how can we abolish old regulations! Irregular cavalry attendant left general Prince of Qiao Cheng chaste plain sincere bright aspiration storing loyal reverence serving frequently left right respectful solemn increasingly manifest. Now appoint Cheng supervisor Xiangzhou military affairs southern gentlemen general Xiang Inspector.'
93
Liu Wei had pressed Rui to plant loyal governors against Dun. Cheng headed the scheme alongside Wei and Dai as regional bulwarks. He reached Wuchang unarmed to meet Dun. Dun feasted him wishing observe his intent telling Cheng 'Great king refined plain fine gentleman—perhaps not general commander talent.' Cheng said, 'You have not taken my measure—a soft lead blade can still make one cut!' He baited Dun with bravado on purpose. Dun indeed told Qian Feng 'That one knows no fear yet learns brave speech—this lacking martial prowess what can he do.' Dun let him take his post. Ruined Xiangzhou knew Cheng's reed-cart austerity and capable rule. Dun feigned a northern campaign to seize Cheng's boats. Cheng surrendered half his fleet to mask intent.
94
便 便 便 使
Dun sent Huan Pi demanding Cheng join as army director against Liu Wei at once. Cheng sighed saying 'I suppose shall die! Land wasteland people few situation isolated aid cut off. Rushing lord's disaster loyalty; Dying king's affair righteousness. Only loyalty with righteousness—what further seeking!' He meant to rally troops though men wavered. Cheng said 'I receive state grace righteousness permits no second thought.' House chief clerk Yu Kui forthright aspiring integrity telling Cheng 'Wang Dun occupies divide-Shaan duty yet once commits rebellion heaven-earth cannot contain humans spirits ache hate. Great king imperial clan screen—how can follow his false evil! Fit seize lightning vigor survival-death thereby.' Yu Kui, Yu Wang, Prince Sima Xun of Changsha, Liu Yi, and their allies jailed Pi and summoned the province to arms at Baling. Yin Feng answered first; the province rose together. Yu Wang executed holdouts including Zheng Dan. Dan was Dun's brother-in-law.
95
退
Dun sent twenty thousand men under Wei Yi against Cheng. Cheng fought behind weak walls awaiting Yin and Yu reliefs amid panic. Counsel urged flight to Tao Kan or Ling-Gui redoubt. Cheng said 'I raised righteous hosts aspiration lies dying for principle—rather steal life cowardly escape becoming fleeing defeated general! If affairs do not succeed simply order hundred surnames know my heart.'
96
使 使
Gan Zhuo urged Cheng to hold and sever Dun's retreat via Han River. Cheng answering letter said 'Jisi beneath feet laboring king's affairs. Heaven's net temporarily collapsed central plains mound ruins. Four seas righteous gentry square plotting restoration revival Jiang left grass creation beginning—how imagine wicked treason sprouts from favored ministers. I by dim short relying imperial clan kin. Looking to advance secret orders garrisoning southern Xia personally receiving inner edict completed regulations stored heart. Boren various worthies wrist-grasping diverging roads arrival stopping still shallow hundred affairs dazed. Jackals wolves easily startled then unleash ugly poison hearing knowing leap shock spirit vigor rushing beyond. Coming-of-sons righteousness men thinking self hundred without summons arriving crowds exceeding several thousand. Truly sufficient deciding moment's crisis. Venting mountain-and-sea wrath. Yet pressed by sudden crisis boats not prepared Wei Yi Li Heng soon seeing siege pressing thus affairs opposed intention aspiration strength not displayed. Shamed insult receiving envoy deeply shares great intent; fine stratagem heroic calculation issuing from inner core. Holding reading circling again joy beyond measure. Beneath foot if able roll armor lightning rush perhaps still aid if hesitating seek me at dried-fish market. War hears clumsy speed never sees skill delay. Jisi, sir, strive and strive again! A letter cannot exhaust my intent, so I end the brush here."
97
Gan Zhuo paused at Zhukou after imperial defeat; Dun fed Cheng forged court letters shot over the walls. Defenders learned Luoyang had fallen and despaired. Liu Yi fell after a hundred-day siege collapsed the walls. Wei Yi shipped Cheng toward Jing where Wang Hao murdered him at fifty-nine on Dun's orders. Dun's defeat brought Cheng posthumous chariot-and-cavalry rank. Wuji inherited.
98
Prince Lie Sima Wuji—Cheng's son.
99
Young Wuji survived Cheng's catastrophe. Xianhe brought him from cavalry attendant through camp-cavalry colonel and yellow gate. Chu Pou's send-off at Ban Bridge drew Wuji and Huan Jing. Wuji drew steel on Wang Zhi until Chu Pou and Huan Jing pulled him off. Che Guan charged Wuji with attempted murder. Emperor Cheng edict said 'Wang Dun raised chaos Prince Min met disaster investigating affair tracing sentiment now what blame Wang bears. Yet public-private statutes already have ruling Wang ought take embodying state as great—how can trace origins thereby disordering court statutes. Authorities shall clarify decree from now offenders surely executed.' Wuji was fined instead of jailed.
100
Jianyuan advanced him through censor-in-chief to Changsha and dual interior posts while keeping general rank. He accompanied Huan Wen in the campaign against Shu; for this merit his younger son Yin was granted the title Baron of Guangjin. He advanced in title to Former General, died in Yonghe year six, and was posthumously granted General of the Guards. Sons Tian and Yin. Tian inherited.
101
Prince Jing Sima Tian—Wuji's heir.
102
西
Sima Tian rose through palace attendant posts to censor-in-chief. Before demobilization Tian impeached Huan Wen's trumpet fanfare as lèse-majesté. Wen viewing memorial sighed saying 'This lad dares impeach me—truly formidable.'
103
His integrity terrified court rivals. He commanded guards, rectified four provinces, joined ministry and tutor posts, governed Wu. Because Tian was a respected imperial clansman with merit and ability, Emperor Xiaowu relied heavily on him, making him commander of the armies in Yan, Qing, Ji, You, and Bing, as well as Jinling in Yang Province and the northern and southern commanderies of Xu Province, while he concurrently served as General Who Guards the North, inspector of Yan and Qing provinces, and Bearer of the Staff. In the fifteenth year of Taiyuan, Posthumous chariot-and-cavalry honors marked his death. Four sons: Shangzhi, Huizhi, Yunzhi, Xiuzhi. Shangzhi inherited.
104
Prince Zhong Sima Shangzhi—Tian's son.
105
Sima Shangzhi, styled Bodao, opened as librarian then cavalry attendant. He commanded Guangling beside Tian until mourning retired him. After mourning he joined the champion general's staff. The clan always produced figures of note. Guobao's purge swept Liu Zhenzhi, Liu Juanzi, and Xu Fang toward execution. Shangzhi spoke to Kuaiji Prince Daozi saying 'Punishments cannot broadly extend ought release Zhenzhi etc.' Daozi depended on the brothers and granted clemency.
106
Wang Gong and Yu Kai rebelled nominally against Shangzhi with Yin Zhongkan and Huan Xuan. Daozi sent Wang Xun and Xie Yan against Gong while Shangzhi faced Kai. Yunzhi routed Yu Hong, slew Duan Fang, and drove Yu Kai to Xuan. Daozi made Shangzhi Yu inspector with Kai's old powers then former-general rank; Yunzhi took Wu interior; Huizhi became champion staff chief and Danyang governor; Xiuzhi held Xiangcheng. Their armies overshadowed the court. Sima Yuanxian relied on them in power.
107
使 西 西
Yuanxian let favorite Zhang Fashun share his seat casually. Shangzhi entering court stern color told Yuanxian 'Zhang Fashun drivelling petty man what talent excellence yet violently promoted. Present sagely age not fitting thus.' Yuanxian stayed mute. Shangzhi again said 'Imperial clan though many correction remonstrators few kings still accept firewood-gatherer words moreover lower official with envoy flesh-bone not distant receiving favor accumulated generations how sit viewing gain-loss without exhausting speech.' He ordered Fashun from the dais. The court froze while Shangzhi smiled; Yuanxian nursed hatred. Yuanxian demanded two thousand western troops. Shangzhi not granting said 'Western screen bordering wilderness remnants bandits raiders without constant troops only several thousand insufficient garrison guard no further divisible detachments.' Yuanxian swallowed the snub while plotting against Huan Xuan.
108
西
Yuanxian named Shangzhi van chief with son Wenzhong inside Xuancheng. Xuan severed Shangzhi's fleet at Tongpu. Shangzhi lined nine thousand foot along the shore with Yang Qiu at Hengjiang. Yang Qiu defected; Shangzhi hid ten days in wetlands. Informers led Xuan to execute Shangzhi in the capital market. Xuan restored the Qiao line through Kangzhi. An's restoration honored Shangzhi and made Wensi heir prince.
109
Wensi was violent and lawless. He desecrated graves until plotting treason with riffraff. Liu Yu slaughtered his gang and returned him to Xiuzhi for house discipline. Father and son rebelled again and died ending the fief.
110
Huizhi—Shangzhi's brother.
111
Sima Huizhi served as champion chief of staff and Danyang governor. Xuan banished the brothers toward Guangzhou then killed them en route. An restored honors naming Huizhi pacifying-army general posthumously.
112
Xiuzhi—Huizhi's brother.
113
Sima Xiuzhi, styled Jiyu. He earned dragon-leaping rank crushing Wang Gong and Yu Kai, then held Liyang. He held Liyang against Xuan. After Shangzhi fell he sallied with five hundred, failed, and fled to Southern Yan with kin. When loyalists rose he slipped back to Jiankang. Grand general Prince of Wuling order said 'Former dragon-leaping Xiuzhi talent capacity chaste careful merit enterprise already accomplished. Liyang battle affair lay opportune speed. Reaching situation contrary strength exhausted offering body fleeing still gathering righteous followers rugged perilous barriers. Already answering intimate worthy elevation ought entrust divide-Shaan heavy duty. May supervise Jing Yi Liang Ning Qin Yong six provinces military affairs concurrent southern tribes colonel Jing Inspector credential-bearing.' Huan Zhen retook Jiangling and drove Xiuzhi back to Xiangyang. Zhang Chang zhi and Liu Huaisu from the Han line expelled Zhen. Wang Zhen zhi impeached him for losing border command. The court swapped in Wei Yong zhi and recalled Xiuzhi as rear general at Kuaiji. He was demoted for carousing with Yu Xiaofu then restored rear rank.
114
西 使
Lu Xun's rising gave him five-district command until a bureaucratic fault cashiered him. After Liu Yi fell Xiuzhi reclaimed six-province western command. Because son Wensi stirred up disorder memorial apologizing saying 'Wensi unable cultivate virtue self-brought crime guilt worry fear trembling regret shame interwoven. Your servant governed his household without proper method and did not make awe-inspiring instruction vigorous, causing sons and nephews to violate the law and betraying the sagely court above. Terror shame dual bearing what face self-standing requesting dissolve held office returning guilt palace court.' The throne refused.
115
使 西
Resentment tied him to Lu Zong zhi against Liu Yu's faction. Wenbao and Wenzu died in custody at Jiankang. Liu Yu personally campaigned secretly dispatching presenting Xiuzhi aide Han Yan zhi letter saying 'Wensi affair intent far near knows. Last autumn dispatching Kang zhi returning Sima lord pushing utmost public utmost. Yet utterly without ashamed heart long cutting memorials this heaven-earth cannot contain. I receiving mandate western expedition stopping his father son only. That land émigré elders for them driven compelled altogether nothing questioned. Former years Xi Shi Shi Ren Ji zhi etc plotting linking years solely scheming Liu Yi therefore reaching here. Now you gentlemen moment pressed originally without fine fault. My empty bosom awaits things naturally having origin now near road is worthies saving-body day. If great army mutually approaching crossing blades mingling orchids mugwort perhaps fear indistinguishable. Therefore white this intent altogether may show shared bosom gentlemen.'
116
西 西 使 便 使 西
Yan Zhi replied: "I have heard that you personally lead war-horses and have gone far to the western frontier; throughout the whole territory, gentry and commoners are all terrified. Why? None knowing army outing's name reason. Insulting incoming memo beginning entrust with Prince Qiao former affair truly adds sigh regret. Sima Xiuzhi the Pacifying West general embodies loyalty to the state and treats others with sincere good faith. Because lord possessing restoration merit state kin relying pushing virtue entrusting sincerity each affair consulting looking up. Prince Qiao formerly by petty affair impeached still self-yielded position moreover facing great fault yet ought silent! Only Kang zhi prior words having something not exhaustive therefore heavy envoy Hu Dao declaring white bosom Dao not reached returning already memorial impeaching dismissing him—not exhaustive part fate ear. Entrusting lodging mutual ought thus what not permissible then reaching weapons. Since righteous banner who regional shepherd dared not first mutual consult then straight memorial Son of Heaven—may say wishing add crime surely no wording! Liu Yu beneath foot within seas persons who not sees lord this heart. Yet again wishing deceive state gentleman 'Heaven earth cannot contain.' There not here. Incoming words 'empty bosom awaits things naturally having origin'; Now attacking people's lord tempting people profit truly may called 'empty bosom awaits things naturally having origin'! Liu Fan died at Changge gate and Zhuge Changmin perished at attendant hands. Sweet words shock regional shepherds striking them light troops thereby causing mat lacking sincere bosom gentlemen outside curtain lacking self-trusting regional marquises. Taking this as winning reckoning truly shameful. I truly base vulgar once heard Way from gentleman. By Pacifying West utmost virtue how could lack life-offering ministers! Suppose heaven long turmoil nine currents muddy ought roam underground with Zang Hong.' Yu obtaining letter sighing showing various aides saying 'Serving men ought thus!'
117
使
Lu Zong zhi raced to Jiangling to join Xiuzhi. Wensi and Gui fought Yu at the Yangzi ford. Both fled to Later Qin's Yao Xing. Before reaching Wei after Qin's fall Xiuzhi died en route.
118
Yunzhi—Xiuzhi's brother.
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Yunzhi continued uncle Yin's Guangjin baroncy and governed Wu and interior districts. Daozi sent the brothers against Yu Kai during inner rebellion. Yuanxing saw him banished with Huizhi and killed en route. The loyalist restoration honored him minister of rites posthumously. Kang zhi's son Wenhuai continued the title. Liu Song ended the fief.
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Appendix: Han Yan zhi.
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西
Han Yan zhi of Zheyang descended from Han Ji. Youth admired his fellowship. He served Jingzhou then Xiuzhi's western headquarters. He mirrored Yu's father's name to slight the Liu house. He fled with Xiuzhi to Qin. Yu entered Guan so Yan zhi fled north to Wei.
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Prince Jing Sima Yin first held the Guangjin barony. Childless, Tian assigned Yunzhi as heir.
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Sima Mu, Prince of Gaoyang.
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·
Sima Mu, styled Ziyou, was Sima Xun's brother. Under Wei he held Anping ting and censor posts. Sima Yan made him Zhongshan prince at 5,200 households. He sought temples to Gaoyao and Xiang like ancient Liu and Zeng precedents. The ministry of rites debated precedent. Doctor libationer Liu Xi etc argued 'Book of Rites Royal Regulations regional marquises five temples two zhao two mu together Grand Progenitor five. This then establishes prime ancestor temple meaning heir-line bears weight one person obtains erect only. Suppose branch younger brothers together regional marquises first-enfeoffed lord cannot erect temple. Now Mu not being orthodox line if erect ancestor temple Zhongshan cannot parallel. Later generations Zhongshan then can for Mu erect temple becoming posterity descendants' prime ancestor ear.' Edict said 'Ritual text unclear this institutional great affair ought order detailed examination may send ritual officials broad deliberation then dispose fitting.'
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使 使
Mu harbored seven hundred fugitives; Du You impeached him. Bureaus cited amnesty cover. Edict said 'Zhongshan prince conduct how reaching this reading memorial greatly thereby sorrowful. Broadly planting imperial kin intends above aiding royal house below benefiting hundred surnames. How only glory honoring self yet causing people exceed statutes! This affair ought greatly debate gain-loss rectify praise-blame place. If unfit ruling state what discuss within amnesty decree. Demote Mu county marquis.' He became Danshui county marquis.
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退
Taikang restored his rank after Wu fell. Relevant offices memorialized enfeoff Jiangyang prince emperor said 'Mu retiring quiet pondering faults reform cultivating virtue now possessing noble territory not only because amnesty. Jiangyang peril remote therefore use Gaoyang commandery enfeoff him.' He became prince of Gaoyang. Yuankang named him imperial clan director. He died in post; grandson Yi followed after heir died young. Yi fell to Shi Le during Yongjia. In the first year of Long'an, the court assigned Wenshen from Huizhi's line to continue Yi. Five years later Falian continued the extinct line from Gaomi house. Liu Song abolished the principality.
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Sima Ling, Prince Jing of Rencheng.
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Sima Ling, styled Zishan, was son of Sima Tong—Sima Yi's nephew. He began as gentleman consultant. In the first year of Taishi, he received Beihai at 4,700 households. Year three moved him to Rencheng with orders to his domain. In the fifth year of Xianning, his son Ji inherited. Ji rose through palace attendant posts to bulwark general. At Xiang with Sima Yue he fell to Shi Le with both sons. Two brothers: Shun and Bin.
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Brothers Shun and Bin.
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Sima Shun, styled Zisi, began as Xiyang ting marquis. When Emperor Wu accepted abdication Shun sighed saying 'Affairs contraven Tang Yu yet borrowing abdication name!' He wept aloud. Court stripped him and sent him to Guzang. Exile never bent his principles.
131
西 西
Sima Bin, Prince Miu of Xihe, styled Zheng, served Wei as gentleman zhonglang. Sima Yan made him prince of Chen at 1,710 households. Year three moved the seat to Xihe. In the fourth year of Xianning, Yin inherited. Ni followed.
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Section heading: historians' appraisal.
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Taishi began calmly: Jin ended Wei abuses, revived Zhou-style feudal kin as bulwarks. Kin won honors meant to last ages. Sima Fu combined dignity with inward virtue and outward loyalty. When Cao Mao died Fu cradled the corpse and wept; seeing the Wei emperor off to Jinyong he sobbed farewell. Proverb says fierce wind reveals tough grass—Prince Xian possessed this. Hence long life, top honors, and a clan legacy others emulated. Gaomi prince Tai was modest, filial, loyal—a true pillar among cadets. Xincai and Nanyang princes held border commands. Amid turmoil they showed fidelity where survival was hard. Villains multiplied; odds doomed them—how tragic. Prince Min of Qiao defended the south with martial grit. When traitors seized court he drew sword inward. His Xiangzhou uprising rallied Jing-Han talent. Victory eluded him yet his steadfast honor shines through descendants. Sima Xun was violent by nature though kin. Court trusted him in Liang-Yi yet he rebelled against kin and throne. Shu's wealth fed his ambition; river barriers deepened his plots. Officials gnashed teeth venting rage; loyalists sharpened self-sacrifice. Heaven punished excess and crushed him in time. Like Ji An checking Liu An or Zhou Fu checking Xun—right men curb traitors in every age. The Book of Songs says, "He brought these sorrows upon himself"; this fits Xun. Shun chose exile principle over compliance—small comfort in stubborn integrity.
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Verse: Sima Fu kept stern integrity. Gaomi Tai embodied clan hope. Xincai princes died loyally amid disaster. Prince Min died for duty though overpowered. Xun ruined himself. Shun defied political winds and suffered exile.
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