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卷五十八 列傳第二十八 周處 周訪

Volume 58 Biographies 28: Zhou Chu; Zhou Fang

Chapter 58 of 晉書 · Book of Jin
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Chapter 58
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1
Zhou Chu.
2
Zhou Chu, courtesy Ziyin, came from Yangxian in Yixing commandery. His father Zhou Fang had served Wu as prefect of Poyang. Orphaned before adulthood, he was immensely strong and devoted himself to hunting and carousing until the countryside feared him. Chu himself knew he was hated by men; thereupon indignant had the intent of reform and exertion; he said to village elders: "Times are harmonious and years abundant—why suffer and not rejoice?" The elders sighed saying: "The three scourges not removed—what joy is there!" Chu said: "What is meant?" They replied: "South Mountain's white-browed fierce beast; beneath Long Bridge the crocodilian dragon—and together with you there are three." Chu said: "If these make calamity, I can remove them." The elders said: "If you remove them, then it is one commandery's great blessing—not merely removing harm." He shot the tiger, then fought the dragon midstream for tens of li over three days until watchers assumed both were dead and celebrated. When he returned alive and heard the rejoicing, he grasped how hated he had been and went to Wu to study under the Lu brothers. At the time Ji was not present; he saw Yun and fully reported the situation saying: "I wish to cultivate myself but years already slip away—fear it will be too late." Yun said: "The ancients prized hearing at dawn and reforming at evening—your forward road still permits; moreover worry not that intent is not established—why fret that fame is not displayed!" Chu devoted himself to letters and upright conduct, speaking always with integrity. Within a year every province and prefecture sought him. Under Wu he became left aide at the Eastern Pavilion archive. Sun Hao's last years made him commander of the Trouble-Free corps. When Wu was pacified, Wang Hun ascended Jianye palace and sprinkled wine; already drunk, he said to Wu men: "You gentlemen are remnants of a lost state—could there be no sorrow?" Chu replied: "Late Han split and collapsed; three kingdoms stood like tripod vessels—Wei perished first; Wu perished afterward—the sorrow of a lost state—how could it be only one man!" Wang Hun flushed with embarrassment.
3
In Luoyang he rose to prefect of Xinping. He pacified tribes until rebel Qiang submitted and Yongzhou admired him. He transferred to Guanghan prefect. He cleared a backlog of lawsuits some thirty years old in a single day. He resigned to care for his aging mother. Named Chu interior steward before arrival he was recalled as imperial attendant. Chu said: "The ancients declined great posts but not small ones." He insisted on taking the Chu post first. Amid war-ravaged Chu he taught moral order, buried abandoned dead, then answered the capital summons to universal praise.
4
使駿西 西 宿駿退 使 駿 西 退退 退 西
As palace attendant he repeatedly offered blunt counsel. As imperial censor he impeached even imperial favorites. He built a legal case against Prince Sima Xiong of Liang. When Di man Qi Wannian rebelled, court ministers hated Chu's strength and uprightness—all said: "Chu is Wu's famous general's son; loyal, fierce, resolute, daring." They assigned him under Xia Houjun's western campaign. General Who Calms Waves Sun Xiu knew he would die; said to him: "You have an old mother—you may use this to decline." Chu said: "The way of loyalty and filial piety—how can both be complete! Having declined kin to serve lord—how can parents again treat one as son? Today is my place of death." Wannian hearing it said: "Prefect Zhou formerly administered Xinping—I know his conduct—talent spans civil and military—if he comes with sole discretion he cannot be resisted. If controlled by others—this becomes capture." Sima Xiong soon took western command over Guanzhong. Knowing Sima Xiong would sacrifice him, Zhou Chu marched anyway, expecting no return. Palace Secretariat Director Chen Zhun knew Xiong would indulge old resentment—thereupon spoke in court saying: "Jun and Prince Liang both are noble kin—not talent of general leadership—advance not seeking fame; retreat not fearing blame. Zhou Chu a Wu man—loyal, brave, stalwart—bearing grudges without aid—surely will lose body. It is fitting to edict Meng Guan with elite troops ten thousand men as Chu's van—surely able to exterminate the bandits. Otherwise Xiong will make Chu vanguard—the defeat is certain." The court ignored him. Qi Wannian held Liang Mountain with seventy thousand men while Xia Houjun ordered Zhou Chu forward with only five thousand. Chu said: "The army lacks rear support—surely will arrive at overturned defeat—although body perishes—it takes shame for the state." Sima Xiong insisted; Zhou Chu joined Lu Bo and Xie Xi against Qi Wannian at Liumo. Before battle Sima Xiong denied Zhou Chu food and reinforcements. Chu knew he must fail—composed poem saying: "Gone gone—world affairs ended—whip horse viewing western Rong. Pigweed sweet—millet fine—I hope for this to achieve good end." He fought from dawn to dusk, claiming myriad heads. His arrows ran out while Lu Bo and Xie Xi withheld aid. Left and right urged retreat—Chu grasped sword saying: "This is my day to display integrity and give life—what retreat is there! Moreover ancient fine generals receiving orders carved ill omen gate to exit—covering advance without retreat. Now the various armies betray faith—momentum surely cannot surge. I am great minister—using body following state—is it not allowed!" He fought until he fell. The court posthumously named him General Who Pacifies the West with cash, burial plots, and farmland. Edict said: "Chu's mother is old and moreover distant person—We always pity and remember—supply her medicine, ale, and rice—grant for whole year."
5
西
He wrote the Silent Words, the Record of Local Customs, and helped compile the Wu history. At the time Pan Yue by edict composed Guanzhong Poem saying: "Zhou obeyed army command—body greased Qi axe. Men said him gone—yet steadfast honor endured." Also Colonel of Western Rong Yan Zuan also submitted poem stating: "Zhou fulfilled his integrity—fine fame unending. Though men declare him dead—his name will shine in history." When Prince Yuan was Prince of Jin—about to add Chu's posthumous verdict—Grand Master of Ceremonies He Xun deliberated saying: "Chu tread virtue pure and upright—talent and measure high surpassing. Successively guarded four commanderies—pacified people established governance. Entered supervising hundred officials—chaste integrity unyielding. In army brought body—seeing peril entrusted life—these all are loyal worthy thick fruits—martyr knight far integrity. Checking posthumous law—holding virtue not turning is called Xiao." They granted him the epithet Xiao. His sons were Zhou Qi, Zhou Jing, and Zhou Zha. Zhou Jing died young; Qi and Zha became noted.
6
Zhou Qi.
7
Zhou Qi, courtesy Xuanpei. He matched his father's toughness though less scholarly. Reclusive and austere, he impressed contemporaries with stern dignity. He refused office until adulthood. Only when a new inspector humbled himself with full ceremony did Zhou Qi agree to serve as aide. Recommended to high office, he rose Worthy and became Consultant Gentleman.
8
使
In Taian's turmoil Zhang Chang and Qiu Shen rallied Jiangxia until people flocked to them. Emperor Hui sent Hua Hong, who lost at Zhangshan. Zhang Chang killed Yang Yi and Prince Sima Xin until garrisons collapsed everywhere. Zhang Chang's lieutenants Feng Yun and Shi Bing swept Xu and Yang until Chen Hui fled. Zhou Qi allied Wang Ju and Gu Mi to raise Jiangdong forces, killing Shi Bing's officers. He slew Shi Bing's general Qiang Du in battle. Chen Min joined Zhou Qi, defeated Zhao Ji at Wuhu, and marched on Jiankang. Shi Bing fled to Feng Yun; Zhang Tong slew both bandit leaders and restored Xu and Yang. Zhou Qi disbanded his volunteers without seeking rewards.
9
使
When Chen Min rebelled he named Zhou Qi prefect of Anfeng. Zhou Qi feigned illness while urging Liu Zhun to march east, cutting his hair as covenant. Liu Zhun at Shouchun sent Heng Yan eastward. Chen Min's brother Chen Chang held Liyang with Qian Guang as major. Zhou Qi persuaded Qian Guang to assassinate Chen Chang. With Gu Rong and Gan Zhuo he shattered Chen Min, captured him at Jiangcheng, and executed him at Jiankang. Sima Yue enlisted Zhou Qi as military adviser. He declined concurrent posts as secretary and cavalry gentleman. Prince Yuan Sima Rui named him aide in the granary bureau.
10
使 西 西
Qian Hao of Wu Xing had joined the loyalists; Sima Yue commissioned him to march on the capital. At Guangling Qian Hao learned Liu Cong threatened Luoyang and stalled in fear. When Sima Rui pressed his deadline, Qian Hao rebelled. Wang Dun was ordered west alongside Qian Hao. Qian Hao planned to murder Wang Dun and seize power; Wang Dun fled to warn the throne. Qian Hao killed Chen Feng, torched depots, crowned himself western commander, briefly enthroned Sun Chong as Wu king, then slew him. He marched against Zhou Qi's home county. Imperial generals hesitated for lack of numbers. Zhou Qi rallied militia, joined Guo Yi, beheaded Qian Hao, and sent his head to Jiankang.
11
西
For thrice saving the south Sima Rui made him General Who Establishes Might, prefect of Wu Xing, and Baron of Wucheng. He restored order and famine relief until Wu Xing knew peace within a year. To honor him Sima Rui carved Yixing commandery from Yangxian, Changcheng, and Danyang lands.
12
調 祿 忿
The Zhou clan's power unsettled Sima Rui. Northerners dominated court while Zhou Qi felt slighted by low appointments and Diao Xie's contempt. Wang Hui, insulted by Zhou Kai, conspired with Zhou Qi and Dai Ruosi to purge northern ministers. Wang Hui urged refugee leader Xia Tie to rise on the Huai while he and Zhou Qi would answer from Wu. Before the plot matured Cai Bao killed Xia Tie. Wang Hui fled to Zhou Qi, who executed him and dumped the body in a pigpen. Sima Rui hushed the scandal but transferred Zhou Qi through successive posts to sideline him. After Qi went south reaching Wuhu—again issued order saying: "Qi generations loyal and fierce—righteous sincerity manifest—Our lone person admires and rejoices. Now appoint Army Counsel Libationer—general as before—advance noble rank to duke—salary ranks and staff followers same as founding state's precedent." Bitter at the empty honor and exposed plot, Zhou Qi died of an infected carbuncle at fifty-six. About to die said to Xie: "Those who kill me are the various rustic fellows—he who can avenge them is my son." Wu men called central plain men 'rustics'—therefore stated thus." He was posthumously named General Who Supports the State with epithet Zhonglie. His son Zhou Xie inherited the title.
13
Zhou Xie.
14
使
Zhou Xie, courtesy Yanhe. He nursed his father's grudge against northern ministers. Refugee officials held power over Wu families, stirring deep resentment. Zhou Xie plotted rebellion with Xu Fu of Wu Xing. Xu Fu forged orders from Zhou Zha to raise troops against Wang Dao and Diao Xie. Sun Bi of Sun Hao's clan rose at Guangde in support. Xu Fu killed Prefect Yuan Xiu and meant to enthrone Zhou Zha. Zhou Zha, home ill, denounced the plot to Kong Kan. Zhou Xie held back when Zhou Zha refused. Xu Fu's followers panicked and killed him. Sun Bi scattered; Tao You of Xuancheng destroyed his band. Sima Rui avoided punishing the Zhou clan to keep Wu loyal. Xie was blamed by Zha—lost ambition returned home—debauchery and extravagance unleashed—often said to people: "Human life how many moments—only ought seek pleasure." He died serving as Linhuai prefect.
15
Zhou Yi.
16
Zhou Yi, Zhou Xie's brother, died young after joining Sima Rui's staff.
17
Table marker introducing Zhou Zha.
18
Zhou Zha, courtesy Xuanji. Arrogant, grasping, and outwardly bold yet timid, he spurned office until middle age. He rose Worthy, served Sima Jiong, and entered the palace corps. He governed Gouling and became Wu kingdom general. He refused Sima Yue's invitation. He earned the Zhangpu barony for defeating Qian Hao. Sima Rui named him Liyang prefect but he became attendant clerk instead. After Xu Fu's defeat Zhou Zha stacked titles as Wu Xing prefect, Stone City commander, and general with shifting commissions. Lame and reluctant, he took office only under impeachment. He received concurrent imperial attendant rank.
19
祿 使 使
When Wang Dun struck Jiankang Zhou Zha opened Stone City to him. Wang Dun moved him to household grandee then secretary. Soon he became Right General and Kuaiji prefect. The Zhou clan held five noble posts across Jinling, Wu Xing, and the heir's court. Five Zhou nobles outshone every Wu family and drew Wang Dun's jealousy. When Zhou Yan buried his mother thousands attended, alarming Wang Dun. When Dun fell ill Qian Feng because Zhou clan lineage strong—with Shen Chong power matched—wished self attach to Chong—plot extinguish Zhou clan—letting Chong monopolize awe Yang lands—thereupon persuaded Dun saying: "Those possessing state worry strong coercion—from ancient times calamity and difficulty always arises thus. Now Jiangdong magnates none stronger Zhou and Shen—Your Grace myriad generations afterward—the two clans surely will not be quiet. Zhou strong and possessing many fine talents—ought first deal with them—later heirs can be pacified—state can be preserved." Wang Dun agreed. The sorcerer Li Tuo claimed eight centuries of age. He healed by sorcery and sold bogus offices until crowds trusted him. His disciple Li Hong gathered bands on Mount Qian claiming prophecy named him king. Wang Dun framed Zhou Zha and his nephews as allies of Li Tuo. Wang Dun slew Zhou Yan and the sorcerers, sent Shen Chong to massacre Zhou kin, then marched on Zhou Zha. Caught unaware, Zhou Zha sortied with hundreds until his men fled and he died. Zhou Zha cared only for wealth and women. Even besieged he hoarded good weapons and issued junk—so no soldier fought for him.
20
使 便 使 便 便 退 便 使
After Wang Dun died Zhou retainers petitioned to rehabilitate the clan. Case referred Eight Seats—Palace Secretariat Bian Kun deliberated because "Zha Stone City campaign opened gates extending bandits—thereby letting bandit Dun unrestrained chaos—Zha's responsibility. Posthumous grant intent We do not approve. Mao, Yan brothers ought restore original posts." Minister Wang Dao deliberated because "Zha at Stone City—loyalty lodged in state altars—righteousness lay in losing body. Regarding previous years' affairs—from ministers and others possessing insight upward—with Zha feeling how could differ! This speech truly penetrates sage mirror—discussers seeing treacherous rebellion already manifest—then wish investigate previous years already having disloyal gradual signs. Even supposing making it so—must at that time masses had not awakened. Once awakened to his treacherous sprouting—Zha together with ministers then used body pledging state—death afterward exhausted—Zha also soon taken execution. Court proclamations already issued—great matter already settled—then straight deem him rebel party. Evil and upright lose place—advance and retreat lack basis—truly state's body ought deeply pity. Your subject considers fitting treat together Zhou Yi, Dai Ruosi same precedent." Minister Director Xi Jian deliberated saying: "As for praise and blame praise or blame—ought order bodies illuminate examples penetrating. Now Zhou, Dai by dying integrity restore posts—Zha by opening gates same example—affairs differ rewards equal—intent produces doubt. Like Minister deliberation—stating previous years' affairs from possess insight upward all with Zha not different—this means evil and upright plainly exist therein. Formerly Song Wen lost ritual—Hua Le bore disloyal punishment. Qi Ling favored evil offspring—Gao Hou bore following dusk execution. Using ancient compare present—Prince Qiao, Zhou, Dai ought receive such blame—what add posthumous restore posts exists! Now according already manifest restoration—then Zha ought demotion blame clear." Dao again deliberated saying: "Examining Director's deliberation—must Zha's opening gate differ Prince Qiao, Zhou, Dai. Now Zha opened gate—straight output Feng words—after all solid affair evil? Then using Feng words settle praise and blame—intent none like tracing emotion examining proof. Discussers state Zha knew Wei, Xie confused governance—trusted Dun rescue—if rescue trusted—crafty flatterers removed—then what is called banishing Four Evil Clans to uplift lord's towering merit. Thus—Zha's reason for loyalty to state altars. Later Dun rebelled misleading beyond what was conceived—Zha also closed gates not agreeing—using this extinguished clan—is his dying for righteousness. Trusting Dun's timely rescue—not plotting future great treachery—hating Wei, Xie's corrupt governance—not losing minister's chaste integrity—at that time court gentlemen were how only Zhou, Zha evil! If all deem disloyal—fear there is slander toward Prince Qiao, Zhou, Dai. Each using death guarding state—this also human minister's integrity. Only seen matters have same difference—yet expect toward must loyalty—therefore ought clarify openly. Even like Director's deliberation—Song Hua, Qi Gao them at Wei, Xie evil! Formerly during Prince Jiu's calamity—Shao Hu died—Guan Zhong did not die. If deem death worthy—then Guan Zhong ought demotion. If deem not dying worthy—then Shao Hu's death was fault. Former canons how explain both passages? Bright loyalty's sentiment same. Death although loyalty's one aspect—not necessary loyalty all ought die. Han Founder left covenant—not Liu clan not king—not merit ministers not marquis—disobey command realm jointly executes him. Later Empress Lü enfeoffed Lüs—Zhou Bo followed—Wang Ling court debated—can we not call loyalty? Zhou Bo executed Lüs honoring Wen—pacifying Han altars—loyalty none surpasses—then Wang Ling again what worth speaking—yet former histories twice made fine discourse. Therefore know death and not death—contend and not contend—if trace emotion exhaust intent—cannot fix one blanket rule. Moreover Zha closed coffin settled posthumous title—rebelling party obedient—receiving execution wicked evil—not betraying loyalty righteousness clear." Xi Jian dissented but the court adopted Wang Dao and honored Zhou Zha posthumously.
21
Zhou Dan.
22
Zhou Dan served Sima Yue's marshal staff. Younger son Zhou Zhi declined Worthy nomination.
23
Zhou Yan.
24
使 便 便
Zhou Yan became general, Wu Xing prefect, then palace gentleman. During Xu Fu's revolt cousin Zhou Xu rose in arms. Prince Yuan deliberated wishing strike them—Wang Dao considered "troops few then insufficient control bandits—many dispatched then root foundation empties. Palace Gentleman Zhou Yan loyalty fierce utmost—one commandery reveres him. Intent considers straight dispatch Yan—sufficient able kill Xu." The court gave Zhou Yan a hundred braves to ride fast to Yangxian. He raced day and night. Already reaching commandery—about enter—met Xu at gate—Yan said to Xu: "Ought together with lord visit Prefect Kong—have matters discuss." Zhou Xu resisted until Zhou Yan dragged him inside. Seating settled—Yan said to Administrator Kong Kan: "Lord why placed bandit seated among us?" Xu clothes inside carried small knife—then grasped blade pressing Yan—Yan shouted county messenger Wu Zeng: "Why not raise hand!" Wu Zeng killed Zhou Xu with the sword pommel. Zhou Yan meant to kill Zhou Xie but Zhou Zha blamed cousin Zhou Shao instead. He rode off without visiting his mother, who chased him desperately. Such was his ruthless public zeal.
25
He became captain of the crown prince's right guard. Wang Dun named him to command five commanderies against Shen Chong before Sima Rui's defeat. He raged when Zhou Zha admitted Wang Dun. Wang Dun soon had him murdered. After Wang Dun fell both Zhou Yan and Zhou Zha were rehabilitated posthumously.
26
Five beams once jumped from his Gushu hall—a freak omen. It foretold the Zhou clan's ruin.
27
Zhou Jin.
28
便
Zhou Jin abducted a Kong slave girl in broad daylight.
29
Zhou Fang.
30
簿 使
Zhou Fang, courtesy Shida, traced ancestry to Ancheng in Runan. His forebears fled south in Han's collapse—four generations to Zhou Fang. After Wu fell the family settled at Xunyang in Lujiang. His grandfather Zhou Zuan was Wu's distant awe general. His father Zhou Min served as left gentleman cadet. Serious, modest, decisive, and generous despite poverty. As clerk he promoted Tao Kan and married his daughter to Tao Zhan. He passed Worthy exams but skipped assigned posts. When neighbors slaughtered his ox he hid the meat without revenge.
31
Sima Rui made him adviser when crossing the Yangzi. Officials seized the wrong Zhou Fang; he fought free then surrendered and was forgiven. He led twelve hundred men at Eling against Hua Yi with Gan Zhuo and Zhao You. He executed Ding Qian for colluding with Hua Yi's officer Feng Yi. He routed Feng Yi's attack. He pressed Feng Yi to Chaisang. He smashed Wang Yue and Fu Zha's relief column at Pennkou. With Gan Zhuo he defeated Zhu Ju on Pengze waters. Zhou Guang opened the city; Zhou Fang captured Hua Yi and secured Jiangzhou.
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退 退 退 退 退
Sima Rui named him General Who Quells Might and Xunyang prefect with honors. He joined the coalition against Du Tao. Du Tao used sweep cranes; Zhou Fang countered with long forks. Du Tao raided from Qingcao Lake and seized Yuzhang through Zhang Yan. Wang Dun sent Mou Rui and Li Heng under Zhou Fang against Zhang Yan. They routed Zhang Yan and Zhou Fang slew him in combat. A stray shaft broke his teeth yet he showed no fear. Reaching dusk Fang separated from bandits by water—bandit multitude several times self—knew strength could not match enemy—thereupon secretly dispatched men like firewood gatherers exiting—thereupon formed battle array beating drums coming—great shouting saying: "Left army arrived!" His men cheered. Night fires convinced Du Tao's army larger forces stood idle. Fang said to various generals: "Bandits surely will withdraw retreat—yet ultimately know We lack rescue army—ought return surprise people—should hasten ford river north." They burned bridges and escaped Du Tao's pursuit. He sailed toward Xiang while Du Hong sortied from Haihun. He marched to Chaisang, crossed secretly, and routed raiders. He drove Du Tao's men into Luling. Supply raids forced retreat to Baqiu. Resupplied, he besieged Du Hong at Luling. Du Hong scattered loot to break the siege. Zhou Fang chased him and seized endless arms. Du Hong fled through Nankang to Linhe. The court promoted him General of Agile Cavalry. Wang Dun named him Yuzhang prefect. He gained pacification command and the Xunyang barony.
33
使
After Zhang Guang died Emperor Min sent Fifth Yi south through Wu Pass. Du Zeng and allies enthroned Fifth Yi, beat Tao Kan at Stone City, and marched on Jiangling. Wang Dun's cousins lost to Du Zeng at Nvguan Lake; Zhao You and Zhu Gui died. Du Zeng seized Hankou and terrorized the Han river. Sima Rui tasked Zhou Fang with Du Zeng. He advanced on Dunyang with eight thousand men. Zeng and others keen aura very flourishing—Fang said: "Forestalling the enemy seizes his spirit—the army's finest stratagem." He arrayed Li Heng and Xu Chao on the wings under towering banners. Du Zeng feared Zhou Fang and struck the wings first. To steady troops Zhou Fang shot pheasants behind the lines while Du Zeng raged. Ordered his multitude saying: "One horn defeated—beat three drums. Two horns defeated—beat six drums." Zhao Yin reinforced the left wing until it broke and re-formed. Zhao Yin reported; Zhou Fang roared for another attack. Both wings collapsed from dawn to afternoon amid Zhao Yin's charges. Zhou Fang held eight hundred elites until drums ordered the charge. At thirty paces he sounded the drum and shattered Du Zeng's line. Fang night pursued them—various generals requested wait next day—Fang said: "Zeng fierce brave able battle—previous defeat—him weary Us rested—thereby conquered. Fitting strike their decline riding them—can extinguish." He marched on drums and secured the Han basin. Du Zeng bottled up in Wudang. Victory made him Liangzhou inspector stationed at Xiangyang. Fang said to his staff aides: "Formerly at Chengpu battle—Lord Wen of Jin because Dechen not dead yet had worried expression—now not executing Zeng—calamity difficulty not ended." He surprised Du Zeng again and drove him fleeing. Su Wen captured Du Zeng and allies for Wang Dun. Zhou Fang urged sparing Fifth Yi as Du Zeng's hostage. Wang Dun executed Fifth Yi anyway. He rose to General Who Pacifies the South with unchanged command.
34
Earlier Wang Dun feared Du Zeng's difficulty—said to Fang: "Capture Zeng—ought mutually arrange Jing Province Inspector." He reneged after the victory. When Wang Yi left, edict gave Zhou Fang Jingzhou. Wang Dun feared Zhou Fang's fame. His attendant clerk Guo Shu persuaded Dun saying: "Our province although encountered bandit calamity waste ruined—truly is martial-using country—if lend others—will have tail huge calamity—Lord ought personally lead—Fang Liang Province suffices." Wang Dun agreed; Zhou Fang raged. Wang Dun wrote apologies and sent jade gifts. Fang threw bowl ground saying: "How could I be merchant fellow—can treasure please!" He quietly plotted Wang Dun's ruin. At Xiangyang he drilled troops, filled offices, and reported late. Wang Dun feared him too much to interfere. His prestige made him the age's leading general. He never boasted of victories. Someone asked Fang saying: "Men having small good—seldom not self praise. Your merit honor thus—beginning without one word why?" Fang said: "Court awe spirit—officers and soldiers employed fate—Fang what merit exists!" Scholars revered his humility. He trained forces and allied Li Ju and Guo Mo to reclaim the north. Men would die for his kindness. He ground his teeth at Wang Dun's treason. Wang Dun dared not rebel openly while Zhou Fang lived.
35
西
Earlier Fang young encountered skilled physiognomist Lujiang Chen Xun—said to Fang together with Tao Kan: "Two lords both rank reach regional peak—merit fame roughly same—yet Tao obtains upper longevity—Zhou ought lower longevity—superior inferior moreover by years ear." Zhou Fang, one year younger than Tao Kan, died in Taixing 3 at sixty-one. The emperor mourned him and raised a hometown stele as General Who Conquers the West Zhuang. His sons were Zhou Fu and Zhou Guang.
36
Section introducing Zhou Fu.
37
西 西
Zhou Fu, courtesy Daohe. He matched his father's toughness but not his generalship. He served Sima Rui until mourning Zhou Fang. After mourning he inherited titles as Wu Chang prefect. Wang Dun enlisted him and Deng Yue as enforcers. After Gan Zhuo's murder. Wang Dun posted Zhou Fu on the Han River. Zhou Fu followed Wang Dun's coup with two thousand men. They fled when Wang Dun fell. Zhou Guang brought supplies but plotted Deng Yue's head. Fu angry said: "I together with Boshan flee death—why not first execute me!" Meeting Yue arriving—Fu exited gate remotely saying to him: "Why not quickly depart! Now flesh bones still wish mutually endanger—much less others!" Deng Yue sailed away while Zhou Fu fled to Xiyang tribes under chief Xiang Can. Tribes wanted revenge for Deng Yue's earlier raids. Can did not listen saying: "Lord Deng poor coming returning me—how bear kill him!" Both fugitives survived. Amnesty confined Deng Yue and Zhou Fu.
38
西 西 西 使退 西 西
Wang Dao later made him aide and Jiangxia chancellor. He joined Wen Qiao against Su Jun. After Su Jun he returned to Xiangyang command. Guo Jing drove him from Xiangyang to Wu Chang; he was cashiered. Soon he was promoted to General Who Shakes Might and governor of Yuzhang; later he replaced Guanqiu Ao as supervisor of Ba East military affairs, inspector of Yi Province, and Bearer of the Staff, while retaining his generalship as before. He added Ningzhou supervision. Huan Wen's Shu campaign put Zhou Fu at Pengmo over four Liang commands. He crushed Shu holdouts and rose General Who Pacifies the West. Wei Wen and Deng Ding enthroned Fan Fen. Fan Xian's cult gave Fan Fen ten thousand followers. With Zhu Tao he destroyed them and gained a county duchy. Xiao Jingwen seized Fucheng claiming Yi Province. Deng Xia failed against Xiao Jingwen. Huan Wen sent Sima Xun to join Zhou Fang. After a long siege Xiao Jingwen surrendered and died. He became General Who Guards the West under Shengping. After more than thirty years in the southwest, he died in Xingning 3 and was honored as General Who Conquers the West with the posthumous title Xiang. His son Zhou Chu inherited.
39
Zhou Chu, Zhou Fu's son.
40
西 西
His courtesy name was Yuansun. He entered Shu with Zhou Fu as hawk general and Qianwei prefect. He inherited the duchy and supervised Liang and Yi. His house ruled Liangzhou for generations with popular support. With Zhu Xu he crushed Sima Xun's revolt. Li Hong's cult claimed a phantom Li heir. Li Gao seized Fucheng posing as Li Xiong's heir. Zhou Chu sent Zhou Shi to aid Yang Liang. Zhou Chu died that year with epithet Ding. Zhou Qiong inherited.
41
西
Zhou Qiong governed Liangzhou as inspector and Qiang colonel. Dou Chong had been Eastern Qiang colonel after surrender. When Dou Chong rebelled Zhou Qiong executed collaborators Huangfu Zhao and Zhou Xun. He died soon after. Zhou Xiao inherited.
42
Zhou Xiao.
43
西 西
Zhou Xiao, courtesy Mengwei. Disciplined from youth. He rose from libationer to western frontier colonel and Zitong prefect. When Former Qin seized his family on the Han River Zhou Xiao surrendered at Fucheng. Jian wished appoint Palace Secretariat Gentleman—Xiao said: "Having received state's thick grace—until today. Only old mother saw capture—lost integrity here. Mother and child complete survival—Qin's grace. Although duke marquis honor—We do not take as glory—much less gentleman post!" Fu Jian desisted. He openly insulted Fu Jian as a Di barbarian. Fu Jian resented the slurs. At new year great meeting—awe display very ordered—Jian thereupon said to Xiao: "Jin house new year meeting how like this?" Xiao pulled sleeve stern voice said: "Rong Di gather—like dogs sheep herding—how dare compare Son of Heaven!" When Lü Guang campaigned western regions—Jian exited farewelling him—Rong soldiers two hundred thousand—banners several hundred li—again asked Xiao saying: "Our hosts power how like?" Xiao said: "Rong Di since coming—not had its like." Fu Jian's courtiers demanded Zhou Xiao's death. Fu Jian nonetheless favored him. He smuggled intelligence to Jin's Huan Chong. In the third year of Taiyuan, he fled toward Hanzhong until Fu Jian caught him. Later again together with Jian elder brother's son Bao plotted raid Jian—affair leaked—Jian led Xiao asking his situation—Xiao said: "Formerly Jianli, Yurang—Yan, Zhi's petty ministers—still lacquered body swallowed charcoal—not forgetting loyal integrity. Much more Xiao generations receiving Jin grace—how dare forget. Living Jin minister—dying Jin ghost—again what question!" Jian said: "Now killing him—fits completing his name." He was beaten and exiled to Taiyuan. Later Jian again captured Shunyang and Weixing—seized two defenders—both grasped integrity unyielding—Jian sighed saying: "Zhou Mengwei did not yield before—Ding Yanyuan purified self afterward—Ji Zuchong refused eat dying—all loyal ministers."
44
西 使
He died of illness in Taiyuan. His son Xing welcomed transporting his bier—General Who Champions the Army Xie Xuan personally arrived weeping him—thereupon submitted memorial saying: "Your subject hears raising good displaying merit—elevating righteousness clarifying integrity—thereby shake teachings—leave beauty later generations. Therefore Western Yi colonel Zitong Administrator Zhou Xiao—held heart loyal fierce—displayed integrity bandit court—thereupon suffered calamity remote frontier—pain buried springs earth. Your subject always grieves his intent—considering Su Wu's worth—not surpass him. Earlier proclaimed Bingzhou—seeking Xiao's bier—and searched his family. Bearing load several thousand—first arrived coming. Immediately using funds escort—return his old ridge. Bowing wish sagely court pursue his intent heart—display his unusual integrity—make frost-bearing intent not fall earth—then glory consoles surviving dead—grace covers hidden manifest." Emperor Xiaowu's edict said: "Xiao fierce intent chaste bright—without shame ancient martyrs. Before able escape body—suddenly fell fate. Selecting displaying righteous integrity—state's canon. Posthumously awarded General of Agile Cavalry—Inspector of Yi Province—burial cash two hundred thousand—cloth hundred bolts." His family received stipends.
45
Zhou Guang.
46
退
Guang young had father's manner—age eleven saw Wang Dun—Dun said to him: "Your commandery lacks general—who can be used?" Guang said: "Illustrious lord not ashamed lower inquiry—Your servant thinks none again sees surpassment." Wang Dun laughed and named him Xunyang prefect. He brought a thousand men to Wang Dun's coup. He arrived after Wang Dun died. Wang Mi hid Wang Dun's death. Guang withdrew saying: "Now We far came yet cannot see Lord Wang—Lord surely dead?" Hastily saw elder brother Fu saying: "Lord Wang already dead—elder brother why act bandit with Qian Feng?" The army stood stunned. He captured Qian Feng and redeemed himself. He fought Su Jun beside Wen Qiao. He earned the Qujiang barony and died in harness.
47
Zhou Zhongsun.
48
祿
His son Zhou Zhongsun governed Ningzhou early in Xingning. His greed brutalized Ningzhou. Huan Wen reused Zhongsun against frontier raids. Yang An's raid cost him office. Recalled as household grandee, he died.
49
When Tao Kan buried kin his ox vanished. Met old father—said to him: "Front ridge saw ox sleeping mountain mire—its ground if bury—rank reaches utmost minister." Also pointed one mountain stating: "This also second—will generation produce two thousand piculs." The stranger vanished. Tao Kan buried his father on the great site and gave Zhou Fang the lesser. Zhou Fang's father took the second hill; three Zhou generations ruled Yi forty-one years as foretold.
50
Historians' appraisal.
51
忿 西
Goodness depends on conduct, not labels. The historians praise Zhou Chu's reform from bully to martyr. Zhou Qi crushed rebels for Jin. Yet his intrigue against ministers proved petty. His rage wasted him. Zhou Zha and Zhou Yan fell from pride to ruin. Zhou Zha opened Stone City to Wang Dun. Justice came through traitors' blades. The historians question Zhou Zha's rehabilitation. They blame Jin law for inconsistency. They celebrate Zhou Fang as the restoration's premier general. Zhou Xiao's defiance of Fu Jian rivals classical exemplars.
52
==
Encomium follows.
53
西
The encomium opens with Zhou Chu. His courage served loyalty. Zhou Qi thrice saved the east. Zhou Zha erred but Zhou Yan stayed true. Zhou Fang's Xunyang career. His heirs sustained the house. Zhou Xiao kept faith with Jin.
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