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卷100 志七十五 乐七 乐章五铙歌大乐 铙歌清乐凯歌辞

Volume 100 Treatises 75: Music 7, Yue Zhang Wu Nao Ge Da Le, Nao Ge Qing Le Kai Ge Ci

Chapter 100 of 清史稿 · Draft History of Qing
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Chapter 100
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Treatise 75
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Music, Section 7
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Musical Sections 5: Great Music for Iron-Gong Songs; Iron-Gong Songs, Clear Music, and Victory-Song Lyrics (editorial note)
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The twenty-eight sections of the Great Music for Patrol Iron-Gong Songs were established in the seventh year of the Qianlong reign (1742).
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Great Qing—first of the great Qing—its glorious destiny ascends. Rising from E'duo at the founding, they came to hold sway over the great eastern lands. A magpie bore fruit in its beak, and the divine lord first appeared; Donning the martial robe but once, the dragon arose and the clouds rallied to him. Stanza 1: Thunder rolled as deeds of valor were proclaimed; Songshan was taken and Xingshan seized, swept away like autumn tussock-grass in the wind. Heaven unveiled the clouds of Changbai; earth shrank the ice along the Ling River. Carts and scripts were unified, and mountains and rivers brought under one rule. His renown reached the four quarters, and myriad lands came to pay tribute. Stanza 2: The Son of Heaven dwelt at the center; his line descended like teeming melon vines. Sage succeeded sage, and merit and virtue alike grew great. Songs of rising peace rose up; sheltering grace lay thick as heaven's bounty. Stanza 3: The people lived long and harvests were full; harmony reigned and gentle winds blew, bearing heaven's favor. They rejoiced in the imperial tour; six dragon-steeds were harnessed early, and a crimson cloud attended. They escorted the imperial tour; six hosts followed in fortune, and joy resounded for ten thousand li. Stanza 4
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西 輿 輿
Four Seasons Procession, No. 2: The emperor addressed Goumang; spring bore the yang force, and the Zhen trigram position stood in the east. Following the season's command, he drove the azure dragon, paired with auspicious bays. He saw rainbows arch overhead; green duckweed grew fragrant. He spread celebration and bestowed grace; the waves of imperial favor rolled vast. Stanza 1: The emperor addressed Zhurong; the sundial's shadow stood at its longest, and the South Pole star shone bright. He drove the vermilion carriage, and ten thousand riders surged and pranced. He praised the outstanding and advanced the worthy. Stanza 2: At Rushou's season dew first fell, the golden wind turned cool, and the Dui trigram position stood in the west. He bore the white banner, rode the military carriage, and moved the heavenly escort. The myriad treasures were announced complete; the One Man rejoiced, and heaven bestowed its gift. Stanza 3: Zhuanxu governed the quarter; springs and streams first dried, and rainbows at heaven's edge withdrew. He rode the primal carriage, drove iron-black steeds, and the cloud highways billowed wide. Ten thousand folds of bright clouds attended the sun; the seasonal sights of the four quarters invited joy and viewing. Stanza 4: The emperor's design and sage virtue were revered without peer; Shun's sun lit heaven and earth. Flowers gleamed and ceremonial regalia stood in ranks; warm clouds lifted and dragon banners fluttered. In this flourishing age, all craned their necks in hope that the immortal carriage would descend. In this flourishing age, all craned their necks in hope that the immortal carriage would descend. Stanza 5
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Receiving Heaven's Favor, No. 3: Favored by heaven and meeting wind and cloud, the myriad states' carts and scripts served the One Man. Court and people rejoiced to behold a splendor like Tang and Yu; the nine regions poured forth heartfelt loyalty. Remote lands, through repeated translation, all came to court; harmonious qi summoned auspicious omens. Stanza 1: He examined ancient instruction and traced flourishing times. The chief was enlightened! He encouraged his ministers; with one heart he heeded the red-book warning against slackness. From dusk to dawn he had no leisure for rest; day by day he renewed himself, taking Tang's inscription as his model, ever more reverent and diligent. Stanza 2: Truly he did not act for splendor and glory, brocade and spring. Truly he did not act for jade trees lush and green, nor for the Taiye Pool's clear waters. He rejoiced that today the jade candle was harmonized and beacon fires were stilled. He dared not forget: for a hundred years readiness must be kept and military bearing kept trim. How could he decline to array the hosts, drill the troops, and bear banners and pennants? The imperial heart was earnest: in prosperity he was yet more mindful of peril. Stanza 3: The Grand Stairway gleamed and the armillary sphere stood true; his achievements blazed like the qilin. For a thousand springs, songs of clear peace; for a hundred million years, celebrations of abundant harvest. They rejoiced in golden branches, riotous splendor, the realm of Mount Penglai. They rejoiced in golden branches, riotous splendor, the realm of Mount Penglai. Stanza 4
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Tribute of Gems and Spheres, No. 4: Gems and spheres were brought in tribute; outer domains returned to civilization and were entered on the maps; the calendar and regnal title were all honored and followed. Lelang Commandery lay beyond the eastern sea; Annam opened the Yue ranges and the land of Cancong. The state of Japan, awed by might, trembled in fear. The state of Ryukyu attended court audiences like inner officials. Stanza 1: Ten thousand states bowed like tigers and all presented tribute; what need was there for shields and feathers? The east wind entered the pitch-pipes and blew; the qian and lü tones made azure clouds surge. The seas were calm; they further presented hymns to the River's clarity. The seas were calm; they further presented hymns to the River's clarity. Stanza 2
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Brocade Cosmos, No. 5: The brocade cosmos was fair; governing the age he set forth norms and arrayed statutes; four reigns gathered auspicious signs and marked masters aiding one another. They gazed toward the imperial precinct; clouds parted and pheasant fans moved. The common people craned their necks as the imperial carriage arrived; in settled villages wine banners fluttered at every gate. Peace and prosperity: in the imperial censer, thick auspicious smoke drifted. Peace and prosperity: in the imperial censer, thick auspicious smoke drifted. Stanza 1: Phoenix notes trilled from beyond the clouds; nine performances of Shao music and chime-stones seethed. They viewed the splendor and looked up to the crimson orb; attendants in vermilion knee-guards filled the ranks. They offered the emperor's joy; thrice by day they were received, and the heavenly countenance was pleased. They offered the emperor's joy; thrice by day they were received, and the heavenly countenance was pleased. Stanza 2
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滿 調
Flourishing Age at the Center, No. 6: The flourishing age at the center was fragrant and tranquil; auspicious wheat and fine grain showed the year's completion. Zouyu and white elephants appeared beyond the suburbs; all wished our emperor sage; Mount Song joyfully transmitted the cry of ten thousand years. Lush auspicious qi filled the capital; the imperial design for ten thousand li secured the emperor's city. Robes, caps, culture, and artifacts met a timely prosperity; the sea's corners were tranquil with no border alarms. Lanes danced and streets sang, rejoicing in great peace; they rejoiced that today the golden realm was unified and ten thousand years were clear. Throughout the wards and lanes, they played silk songs and wind strings and recitation flourished. Further, in the suburban fields, wild silkworms formed cocoons and mulberry shade lay light. Stanza 1: The season was harmonious and the year abundant; the golden tripod was tuned, and phoenix-screen flowers shone together. In green fields wheat bore double ears; on yellow uplands grain shared the same heads. When the attendant carriages drew near, they rejoiced in ten thousand years; voices answered from afar. When the attendant carriages drew near, they rejoiced in ten thousand years; voices answered from afar. Stanza 2
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Offering the Emperor's Joy, No. 7: Offering the emperor's joy; heaven's canopy was thick. Scenery floated along the imperial roadway; distant paths and near lanes were all covered in yellow clouds. Feathered canopies and spring banners, variegated like brocade. Just as farm folk toiled and he urged plowing, he ceased galloping; golden stirrups and whip-taps, leopard tails hung behind the carriage. He stored wealth among the people; among the people he stored wealth.
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Clear Skies and Five Clouds, No. 8: Clear skies opened and five clouds moved the emerald carriage; officials and commoners all rejoiced. We see them again, we see them again; cherishing the distant, again cherishing the distant. At the sage's court, silk-cloud songs greeted the dawn again. Stanza 1: Meeting the central heaven, one qi turned on the great axis; gentle harmonious winds fanned. At Dragon Ford swallows' shadows hung low; on willow lanes orioles' voices warbled. They gazed at the dragon banners, far off passing sunny peaks. They gazed at the dragon banners, far off passing sunny peaks. Stanza 2
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Auspicious Clouds Enfolding, No. 9: Ceremonial regalia, auspicious clouds enfolding, passing several sunny ridges. The golden censer was raised high; incense smoke drifted; mist veiled the Grandee Pine. Where harmonious bells sounded, a hundred spirits followed. Jade tallies and golden mud, strung pearls and bestowed gifts—surpassing the Han house's feng sacrifices.
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Driving Six Dragons, No. 10: Driving six dragons, controlling the emerald splendor, the emperor's virtue illumined all under heaven. From the sea's shores inward, all were one family. Beyond the four frontiers, the calendar and regnal title were imposed. His voice and spirit shone brilliantly, covering the four quarters and reaching the farthest wilds.
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Escorting the Emerald Splendor, No. 11: Escorting the emerald splendor, we drove forth; controlling the emperor's carriage, we greased the axles. He commanded the Wind Lord and rebuked the Cloud Master; the roadway was sprinkled fine as silk; clear breezes answered the season.
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( ) 漿
Four Seasons Reflection, No. 12: In mid-spring, the Minister of War taught the hosts to be roused; they rejoiced in Shao harmony; green sprouts and fragrant grass enriched the level Chu lands. They grasped naos and bells together with war drums; where they wheeled and turned, it was like cords and like dance. Stanza 1: Reflecting on spring days, the myriad things first flourished lush. Moreover, farm households bore plows and led oxen, just then toiling hard. They removed spring-traps and nets and still loosened seine nets; heaven's heart favored them, and seasonally ever sweeter timely rain fell. Stanza 2: In mid-summer, the Minister of War taught encampment. The open terrace was spacious; sharp reeds and lush grass covered the level wilds; famous prefectures and famous districts drove campaign horses. When the hunting encirclement ended, at sunset campaign robes were doffed. Stanza 3: Reflecting on summer days, the red sun burned like a brazier. Moreover, our people—feet and legs smeared with mud to the ankles, combing wind and bathing in rain without rest day or night. He ceased strict carriage and dwelt in quiet simplicity upon terraces and pavilions. Stanza 4: In mid-autumn, the Minister of War taught the ordering of troops. They rejoiced in crisp air; the golden wind first strengthened and horn bows sang; they bore flags and pennants, solitary banners and streamers. They gathered the camps; the myriad treasures were just completing autumn's harvest. Stanza 5: Reflecting on autumn days, the air was crisp and the wind clear. Moreover, in suburban fields, farm work had just ended and crops were already ripe; following Zhou ritual they examined the troops. They gazed at the dragon banners; elders came forth with pots of drink to welcome them. Stanza 6: In mid-winter, the Minister of War taught the great review. On the level suburban plain, beasts were fat and grass shallow; cold majesty was sharp; they raised flags and planted markers and arrayed the ranks. Much joy and delight—who would say fur coats were like iron? Stanza 7: Reflecting on winter days, the single yang first stirred in the pulse. Moreover, at the southern suburb, earthen vessels and clear water were about to be offered in sincere purity; herbaceous armor had just sprouted and was not yet grown. He dwelt in the golden gate-tower; ten thousand states came to court and pay homage. Stanza 8
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Strengthening Military Bearing, No. 13: Strengthening military bearing, awe in the four directions. They sharpened spears and halberds; armor and weapons stood dense. They split patterned rhinoceros hide; seven layers gleamed like silver; They wore shark-skin quivers, dazzling beyond naming. Such were the golden city's bulwarks. Stanza 1: There were Chunjun, Giant's Gap, Hepan, Ying, and Fish Intestine. Further there were Zhanlu, Purple Lightning, Shadow Bearer, and Hidden Light. Again, Haocao was like water, plain substance like frost, rivaling Moye and Ganjiang. Stanza 2: Official arrows were finest made; ivory nocks and fish-skin quivers, bamboo shafts and mulberry bows. Further, red feathered shafts and white points drank feathers in perilous beams. Drawing the bow pierced the target; there were ape-armed flying generals in the host. Stanza 3: They moistened sharp points; pelican beaks first gleamed. They smelted violet ore and tin; dragon sparrows came forth in pairs. Pattern like the spirit tortoise, image matching the white tiger—this was the spirit treasure, also called Hidden Splendor. It rivaled Kunwu cutting jade, steel refined a hundred times. Stanza 4: Chui's clan strung wood; the mulberry bow was thus created. Winter-dried and spring-glued, Black Cry and Fanyou, Bright Moon shone clear at the butt. The nine joins were complete; two bows crossed in the case. Stanza 5: They sounded golden naos, rang golden bracelets, and painted horns drifted long. When the moon was bright, wind still and night quiet, clear pipes answered thrice; the host's hearts leapt vigorous. Like phoenix cries, again like crane calls; watch-drums sounded and clappers passed through a thousand tents. Stanza 6: At the Biaohe Gate, banners and pennants flew. They patterned the Seven Stars, raised nine tassels, and set the nine emblems. Inlaid with kingfisher feathers, phoenixes blazed splendid. They trailed the Swaying Brilliance, sheathed plain brocade; the yellow dragon's great banner stood at the center. Stanza 7: Carved crossroads saddles, kingfisher feathers clustered on golden beams. Coral whips, agate bridles—luxuriant beauty beyond the common. They did not open clamor and bustle; the flourishing court did not esteem it. They only pushed the carriage hub and sought good generals. Clouds moved and thunder stirred—upright and majestic. Stanza 8
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耀
Sun First Rising, No. 14: The sun first rose; cloud light at dawn. Banners and flags grew warm; dragon scales gleamed. They gazed at clouded mountains, purple and green in a thousand folds; They crossed plowed uplands; mulberry and hemp showed faintly. The common people rejoiced, saying surplus grain rested in the fields and fine seedlings grew again. Stanza 1: Without reading books, they knew loyalty and filial piety. Work and rest, plowing and chiseling. Jade springs flowed; sweet rain on a thousand fields; clear clouds gathered; cooking smoke rose from ten thousand hearths. The common people rejoiced, saying surplus grain rested in the fields and fine seedlings grew again. Stanza 2: Scenery was mild and pleasant; wind was brisk; great harmony gathered—a sign of an abundant year. They brought their midday meals; men and women leaned close in affection; The bell-ringer was Zhao; the great-grandson came to welcome and comfort them. The common people rejoiced, saying surplus grain rested in the fields and fine seedlings grew again. Stanza 3: Having eaten the ruler's grace, how deep and hard to repay. They prayed for the sage's longevity, lofty as mountains. When crops were alike gathered, they stretched their legs and slept at ease; doors stood unclosed; officials were upright and lawsuits few. The common people rejoiced, saying surplus grain rested in the fields and fine seedlings grew again. Stanza 4: The emerald splendor drew near; rainbow banners led the way. They followed level land and climbed mountain peaks. They only saw thatched huts with crossbeams and hemp roofs. One by one, bodies warm and bellies full. Unknowing and unlearned, they slept until the sun was high before waking. They only prayed the ruler truly had the Way, cared anxiously for the people, and kept taxes light and corvée light. He spread teaching and grace, loving kin and honoring the aged. The common people rejoiced, saying surplus grain rested in the fields and fine seedlings grew again—surplus grain rested in the fields and fine seedlings grew again. Stanza 5
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Auspicious Omens Song, No. 15: Tracing auspicious omens, Huaping and vermilion grass flourished in mid-Tang. The dragon chart was bestowed, the tortoise book granted; tame marsh horses were yoked to soaring yellow steeds. Yanxi jade came as a gift from heaven. Quyi grass grew before the steps. Stanza 1: They beheld glorious light, white qilin, red wild geese, and mushroom chambers. They roamed the river islets; red script and green characters; orchid leaves unfolded, five colors forming patterns. Immortal caltrop leaves leaf by leaf enriched the spring garden; auspicious feathers clanged and rang on the Maiden's Couch. There was also an auspicious qilin with a single horn, and a harmoniously singing phoenix on the high ridge. Stanza 2: The sun redoubled in light, crowned and jeweled, rose from Fusang. The moon redoubled in splendor, the stars redoubled in luster, the jade cord turned, and the South Pole star blazed bright. Dew on bamboo and reeds, sweet as ferment; wind through pu grass, fresh as autumn's cool. Stanza 3: Luan and phoenix danced; misty pavilions wore embroidered robes. The precious tripod appeared, the zouyu emerged, and floating sweet dew overflowed as heavenly nectar. They examined past records and searched coral nets. They displayed auspicious objects, hard to name or describe. Stanza 4: Only our emperor does not boast of strange things and special omens. He opened the four gates, cleared the four eyes, sought outstanding talent, and displayed the worthy and good. He loved the crops, and let his tassels and cap-strings hang down in humility. He placed our people upon the spring terrace. Stanza 5
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輿 輿 輿 宿
Selecting Auspicious Days, No. 16: On an auspicious day they chose a fine date; all officials assembled and chariots and guards were arrayed. Pingyi reined in his team—the jade firmament was without dust. Dazzling—the Dipper chariot; brilliant—the heavenly wheel. Stanza 1: He charged the Minister of Rites to present the sacrificial victim, to proclaim clearly to the hundred spirits, and to offer clean grain in solemn, bright sacrifice. About to extend the carriage shaft and set the imperial procession in motion, he would descend to observe the people's diligence. Stanza 2: The border commander cleared the capital region—layered grass like a mat. Field lodges lined the return road—fragrant mist received the wheels. Border guards set barriers—left cleared, right level. Pavilion hosts prepared the rites—thus mirroring the Great Palace. The jade palanquin—clang clang; attendant chariots—rumbling hidden. Stanza 3: Fans and gentle breezes—fresh carriage curtains; attendants and fine haze—vermilion wheels. Heaven officials fully equipped as guards—grand carriages and robes—the seasonal imperial tour. Tiger guards—solemn solemn; foot soldiers—numerous and orderly. Stanza 4: The vanguard pressed forward; the rear columns like scales. They summoned ten thousand jade bells to clear the way; decreed to rein in whips—entering the sacred precinct. Stanza 5: Speeding like floating light—soaring into the azure sky; four dark dragons as team—outriders beyond all dust. Climbing high ridges—rolling and lofty; ascending peak hills—wheels turning. Stanza 6: Looking up to the imperial carriage—solemn awe; mountains presented charts, rivers offered treasures. Like heavy dew drying in the morning sun; as if the arrayed stars bowed to the North Star. Stanza 7: Sheltered under the imperial canopy—supporting Gouchen; silk and fine brocades gathered—banners and flags moving in procession. Matching the Emperor's dwelling in the primal garden; mirroring Taiyi's awesome divinity. Stanza 8: Graceful—rainbow banners; the eight directions—arrayed in ranks. Red displayed at the Li position; black planted at the Dark Primordial. White silk banners flying at Dui; green standing upright at Zhen. Stanza 9: Meteor banners and lightning chains; vast and boundless infinity. Nine flags varied and pennants raised; five chariots winding gracefully connecting axles. The grand sight of all under heaven; following the model of Feng and Hao. Praising the high mountain's founding work; looking up to the One Man's joy in receiving kin. Stanza 10
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Visiting Pearl Mound, No. 17: Visiting Pearl Mound—dim mist among pines and zelkovas. They spread the table and mats, reverently honoring the forefathers' design. The state's accumulated virtue is only sincerity and depth—steadfast as Duke Liu. Stanza 1: Recalling his countenance and voice—frost and dew through spring and autumn. They placed the ceremonial robe, the great cowrie, and the heavenly orb. Almost hearing and dimly seeing as if face to face; tracing back former blessings. Stanza 2: Presenting the sacrificial vessel—fine wine bringing gentle thoughts. Beholding virtue as if on a wall; duckweed and water-grass as first offerings; jade food from ten thousand regions—honoring kin long. No need to imitate—the Han dynasty officials touring by moonlight. Stanza 3: The mausoleum garden held rites honoring the hall's founding; civil design and martial glory shining before and after. Lush auspicious vapors floated; ethereal auspicious clouds embroidered. For ten thousand myriad years—rising eternally, splendid fortune from heaven's blessing. Stanza 4: High mountain heaven-made—the blessed land's beauty; Liaodong sea encircles its right. Auspicious vapor coiled; aiding destiny, spiritual light flourishing. For ten thousand years—forever established, heaven shares long life. For ten thousand years—forever established, heaven shares long life. Stanza 5
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At the Imperial Brocade Throne, No. 18: At the brocade throne—solemn court ritual; Pei Palace-style imperial procession arrayed for the New Year audience. Deep within the clouds; the Heavenly Gate resounding; the Grand Ultimate towering. Stanza 1: Nine guest ranks set, vermilion gates open; Fusang first embraced the dawning sun. The herald announced the phrases; officials assembled in abundance; nobles orderly and reverent. All called out "Mount Song"; caps and sashes flowing gracefully. Stanza 2: They presented tribute spheres; charted the royal assembly; the Khagan prostrated to behold cloud and sun. Without inner or outer distinction—tattooed foreheads, filed teeth, Wuyi and Huangzhi. They rejoiced to encounter in person—the august age's majestic presence. Stanza 3: At mid-heaven the splendid gate floated auspicious vapor; founding and building a foundation for ten thousand years. Hereditary virtue recalled Bin and Qi; heaven's grace displayed in caps and shoes. Everywhere one looked—auspicious breezes and dim mist; feathered canopies lush and full. Everywhere one looked—auspicious breezes and dim mist; feathered canopies lush and full. Stanza 4
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谿 綿 西 輿
Mount Changbai, No. 19: Mount Changbai—far standing at Kaiyuan; crowning the peaks, utmost steepness reaching heaven. Jagged cliffs piercing the Milky Way; a thousand li of rolling peaks. Stanza 1: Consulting the Classic of Mountains—once transmitted as Buxian; checking geographical records—also called Shangjian. Its Tang name—Taibai; a pool on the summit. Stanza 2: Taimen Pool—ten thousand qing of eddying currents; beating heaven's wind, shimmering patterned waves. Source deep, flow broad; three rivers issue from there. Stanza 3: The Yalu River—flows from south of the mountain. The Hunhe River—source of the northern sea. The Ai and Hutuo rivers flowing east; ten thousand bends and thousand coils. Stanza 4: Mount Yiwulu—ethereal in the cloud tops. Peach Blossom Cave—below it a flying spring. In harsh winter—no ice; always warm—no cold. Stanza 5: Muye Mountain—stone steps winding. Huabiao Mountain—crane shadows dancing. Nipple peaks—hanging cascades; well water clear—cold spring. Stanza 6: Shimen Stream—standing firm before the cliffs. Like twin doors; cloud ravines stretching on. Winding around the peaks; graceful the many ridges. Stanza 7: The Songhua River—wave shadows clear and bright. Flowing north; joining the sea and turning west. The Hunhe joins the confluence; from ancient times a long river. Stanza 8: The Liao River—surging wild billows. The Liao marshes—muddy bogs causing slow steps. Earth spread to make a bridge; once complete—very secure. Stanza 9: Flying Cascade Rock—the waterfall always suspended. Emerald Cloud Screen—cloud shadows curling linked. Sacred water pours like a basin; ten thousand pines—daytime cold. Stanza 10: Pyongyang city—Jizi's famed feudatory domain. Daning city—in the Han dynasty called Xinan. Expounding the model and setting out the fields; girded with oaths upon the mountains and rivers. Stanza 11: Zhong Fuyu—crouching like a tiger, coiled like a dragon. Planting a numinous foundation; heaven made the lofty mountains. Arching in guard beside the capital; forever established for ten thousand years. Stanza 12
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Buer Lake, No. 20: Buer Lake, clear as a mirror. Kuli Mountain—gracefully arrayed like a cloud screen. When the wind comes, a thousand qing turn jade-green; when the rain passes, several peaks grow verdant. It gathers the benevolent qi of Fuyu; here heaven and earth poured forth their numinous essence. Stanza 1: There was a heavenly maiden—born beside the pool. She swallowed a cinnabar fruit; jade-like substance crystal-clear; precious tokens matched, and thereupon the sage was born. Stanza 2: The divine being from birth could speak—wise in understanding, clear in intelligence. Without awaiting instruction; swift and uniform, earnest and agile; supreme virtue beyond naming. Stanza 3: Sun-horn brow and pearl-like forehead; consulting the ancient emperors; holding Bao and treading Ji; Moreover a dragon countenance; bearing the pole and shouldering victory; precocious wisdom—all born of heaven. Stanza 4: At that time, three clans contended for dominance. Chaos held no fixity; rival factions fought like snail-ant armies. Stanza 5: Drawing clear spring water—when he reached the riverbank he saw the true man, radiant as sun and cloud; bowing in homage, all came to welcome him. Stanza 6: Seeing Yao's brow, all clans were astonished. This was no ordinary sign; heaven does not bear fruit in vain; all hearts already offered their loyalty. Stanza 7: Consider us—we are not by nature lovers of strife. Now we have a lord; we may bear his nurturing grace; from this we lay down weapons of war. Stanza 8: The three clans were settled and he was honored as beile; as at Qizhou, where Yu and Rui settled their dispute—grand enterprise began. Stanza 9: Tracing back the sage's birth, how many auspicious signs appeared. Huaxu's footstep, azure clouds winding round him; the Pole Star illuminating the fields; rainbows streaming through the Great Clarity. Yaoguang piercing the moon; the dark bird bearing the vessel; consulting the classics—words cannot exhaust them all. Then the Great Qing—the supreme man first appeared; heaven and earth earnestly gave him birth. Since Fuxi, Haohao, Xuanyuan, and Shennong—no auspicious records or blessed scriptures can compare. Stanza 10
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Building Liaoyang, No. 21: Building Liaoyang—here raising lofty walls. Towering golden walls, ten thousand battlements; commanding the feudal lords to pay court. Near and far return in loyalty; all lands alike as one. Stanza 1: Awed by heaven's majesty, they ceased grasping the whip; They sang in near accord, desiring heaven's sheltering canopy. The rising dynasty's calendar all revered and followed; thus they opened up the great east. Stanza 2: There was Hada—vacillating at both ends, repeatedly breaking alliances, swayed from without. At one move of the celestial army all were startled—like grass bending with the wind. Stanza 3: There was Huifa—inconstant in reversal, nurtured from without, vaunting himself like the Lord of Yelang. The six armies swiftly deployed like rolling thunder; they cast off armor and surrendered their bows. Stanza 4: There was Ula—harboring evil intent, flexing a mantis's arm, wishing to test the chariot's charge. One point of spear and halberd, one bow drawn—sweeping them away like gnats. Stanza 5: There was Yehe—overbearing and backed by a corner, like fish swimming freely in a cauldron. Craftily he secretly allied with the Koreans; morning and evening dispatch riders exchanged messages. Stanza 6: There was Korea—remote on the seacoast, in collusion with Yehe. Like the qiong-qiong and gancao beasts mutually supporting one another; they built fortifications clustered like swarming bees. Stanza 7: Pity the late Ming—the age of dire calamity had just begun; state coffers hung empty as a suspended bell. Korea and Yehe deluded one another; pressed tight yet they knew no limit. Stanza 8: Four-route armies came invading from every angle; without discipline—who could prevail? For a time a motley rabble without true courage; their commands passed like wind over cattle. Stanza 9: Five hundred thousand strong—like boar and serpent, rampant as greedy wolves—not without clamorous fury. Only because they chased profit, not true devotion—when crisis came each fled his own way. Stanza 10: They wantonly invaded; their armies marched without just cause—our celestial court met their aggression with righteous force. Majestic in the eight formations, heaven's might rose like autumn wind scattering leaves. Stanza 11: Donning the martial robe but once to rescue the people—costing no more than reed arrows and peachwood bows. After Liaoyang was built, ramparts stood firm as metal and moats; royal enterprise began at Qi and Feng. Stanza 12
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窿 駿 西 輿使
Shenyang City, No. 22: Shenyang city—where royal qi converges. Rainbow mist of five colors, dim and drifting like a dragon. Truly splendid—lush and verdant. Stanza 1: Jiamu Ford—east of the Tail of the Sieve. Above it joins Tianbian; on the right it embraces Shengong. Crossing by ford and bridge; a rainbow hangs from the skies. Stanza 2: Near the northern pole—the celestial image pressing the vault of heaven. Xuantu commandery established; Protector-General pacified the east. Through the Jin and Yuan, capitals and fiefs were repeatedly established here. Stanza 3: Our imperial dynasty—its cosmic fortune ascendant. This alone is our dwelling-place; thereby to extend its achievements. Reading yin and yang, settled at the land's heart. Stanza 4: As for Guangning—towering lofty walls. Stone steps linking terrace after terrace; fragrant waters melting in spring. Eighteen turns of the path; ten thousand trees of green pine. Stanza 5: As with Lüshun—facing the sea at a strategic crossing. Foreign peoples gathered like deer; merchant ships followed like clouds. Turning southern grain transport; the celestial granary is filled. Stanza 6: Taking Guangning—border domains like lip and teeth. This Lüshun too likewise followed in obedience. Opening the grand design—splendid achievements and abundant merit. Stanza 7: Korea to the left, Yunzhong on the right. Divination confirmed this as the place to dwell; turtle and milfoil both assented. Harmonizing heaven and humanity—this is great unity. Stanza 8: Girded by the Hun River; the blue sea pays tribute. Mount Bai stands sentinel; stone pillars shrouded in clouds. This is a numinous homeland—deep in custom, rich in people. Stanza 9: Winding southwest—the Liao waters rushing on. Embracing the northeast—the Amur and Hunhe joined. Magnifying its numinous renown—like Haojing's Bright Hall. Stanza 10: Expanding the realm north to Wulong; herding clans and dog-using tribes of old. Heaven's majesty trembled forth—all bowed in reverent submission. Stanza 11: Mindful of the central plains—the people's strength exhausted. Transport and levies utterly drained; every house stood empty; weapons of war everywhere—the people beyond saving. Delivering them from mortal suffering—drawing them out of water and fire. When clarity returns, the four seas unite as one. Stanza 12
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崿 ( )
Mount Tieling, No. 23: Mount Tieling—peaks sheer as cut blades; white stone burned yet never consumed; east of Liaoyang, the forge bellows blow. Stanza 1: Embroidered Ridge Mountain, Ten Thousand Flowers Valley, Leisure Pine Hollow, Cloud-Linked Ravine. South of Haicheng the vital force surges vast; above are three springs sweet enough to drink. Stanza 2: Flat-Top Mountain—clouds vast and dim. Chariots once halted there; a basin serves for bathing; pooled water above never dries in winter. Stanza 3: Mocha Ridge—like a sword's edge. Steep yet level; broad and expansive. Cha Water rises at the cliff's edge and cascades down. Stanza 4: Dragon-Descending Mountain, where spirits take refuge. It coils and winds like grasping talons; when storm and rain draw near, light blazes dazzlingly. Stanza 5: Water-Spring Mountain, where milk and cheese abound. Clear and fine for boiling and stewing; myriads of pearls pour through the curtain-silk. Stanza 6: South Double Mountain, opened by the giant spirit. On the left a yang peak, on the right a yin ravine—against blue sky, gracefully cut like hibiscus buds. Stanza 7: These mountains link together, now dipping low and rising high, jagged and steep. Sheep-gut paths wind past cliff pavilions; where bird-paths end, a rough footbridge is built. Stanza 8: peaks gathered like scallions ( grass radical) —majestic as jaws and teeth. Set in caves and grottoes, vast and open. They obscure sun and moon; gibbons and macaques grieve; delightful, startling, and astonishing all at once. Stanza 9: Earth displays its tokens; heaven opens the key. Nurturing numinous beauty; heights where birds swoop and seize. Great trees stand like a forest, fine grasses frail; flourishing in season, all things are nourished. Flourishing in season, all things are nourished. Stanza 10
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輿鹿
Fine Products Nurtured, No. 24: Fine Products Nurtured—their kinds flourish and multiply. To count them all would weary attendants with tedium; the Classic of Mountains and Seas and the Erya compiled lists in vain. Briefly set forth the outline, to inform those who oversee the source. Stanza 1: There are tigers—gray-bodied with dark stripes. Roaring fetid wind destroys forest leaves; in the mist the dark leopard is especially fierce. Different names, same species—the mugwort-leaf and gold-coin types. Stanza 2: Bears resemble pigs; they den in empty mountains. They grapple people readily; emerging in spring, coiling in winter; pi bears marked yellow and white, with slender trunks. Strong enough to uproot trees; unafraid of spears and blades. Stanza 3: There are wild horses—light and nimble in form. They run in deep mountains, refusing saddle and bridle; five hundred li a day like racing lightning. Wild mules resemble horses; they too are found in distant borderlands. Stanza 4: Fuyu deer love forests and springs; musk deer lack gall—their hearts are ever fearful. Muntjacs and roe deer—their kinds are plentiful. Stanza 5: Wolves have white cheeks; tall in front, broad behind. Whether gray or black, all are plump and strong. Jackals are especially fierce; autumn sacrifice beasts roam the plain. Stanza 6: Single-hump camels—flesh forms its own saddle; long neck gently curved, content to chew fodder. Strong enough to bear heavy loads; used to sustain the army's provisions. Stanza 7: Foxes are suspicious by nature; raccoon dogs love peaceful sleep; deep, warm fur is made into robes for warmth. Badgers can forage for food; when prosperous they supply raccoon-dog fur. Stanza 8: Rabbits are graceful; also called shoulder-to-shoulder; flying squirrels with five skills merely invite mockery. A rodent named mugwort-tiger also belongs among the small and insignificant. Stanza 9: Sables resemble rats, bulky in build; they eat pine seedlings and take chestnuts as gruel. Purple-tipped hair, abundant down—wearing it brings great comfort. Stanza 10: Horses, cattle, and sheep—lanes and alleys clamorous. White-headed pigs supply platters and meals; households door to door fill their daily fare. No need to enumerate in detail, lest words become tedious. Stanza 11: This is the flourishing dynasty; its nurturing achievements are proclaimed. Producing goods; flourishing in spring fields; the four auspicious beasts kept as livestock—a qilin roams the pasture. Extraordinary omens and supreme blessings are recorded in many blue-bound volumes. Stanza 12
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Numinous Birds Nurtured, No. 25: Numinous Birds Nurtured—five-colored, named hui; imperial huntsmen capture them yearly for seasonal sacrifice. Sand grouse have no toes; emerging from green forests, they are also presented at the crimson steps. Stanza 1: There are shu ducks—truly plump and fat; domestic geese and shu geese remain delicious. Green herons rank next; pelicans, cormorants, and the like. Stanza 2: They call across nine marshes; black lower garments and feather robes; storks call on the mound, their beaks red. Bald ibises with long necks at the water's edge. Clipping frost-white feathers to adorn caps that make one forget to return home. Stanza 3: Cormorants on the beam—reciting Odes of Feng; scoop-river birds drain every hoof-print puddle. Turtle-doves are clumsy by nature; tucking their necks they fly high. Both soaring together—suited to their nature, forgetting artifice. Stanza 4: Swallows flying; dipping up and down unevenly. Skilled at building nests; departing in autumn, returning in spring. As dawn color just breaks, best of all—the magpie's few calls announcing joy from the eaves. Stanza 5: Woodpeckers—sharp mouths like awls. Boring insects hole trees and hide securely; climbing the wood to seek them, they are sure to be found. Among all birds, they are called most intelligent. Stanza 6: On the Black Dragon River there are deep pools. Geese come first, dipping pale feather ornament; mergansers and swan geese flock in play. Floating on clear waves; laying eggs, breeding in abundance. Stanza 7: When spring comes, field mice transform into ru birds; consulting the Erya, they are the yellow orioles. The oriole sings; summer days lengthen slowly. Amid willow shade, fine notes flow smoothly. Stanza 8: Liao River hawks—Song'er and Duo'er varieties. Eastern Sea green—its nature especially fierce and bold. Swans lose their souls; what can cunning rabbits do? Tiger-striped eagles can nearly keep pace shoulder to shoulder. Stanza 9: Gathered feathered tribes in deep forests with lush branches. Drinking and pecking—whatever their nature suits. Great harmony overflows; people and things peaceful and flourishing. Playing the Shao music—phoenixes come with ritual grace. Stanza 10
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便 輿 姿 椿綿綿
Abundant Precious Trees, No. 26: readily abundant precious trees—shrouding streams, covering ravines. Here are artemisia, mugwort, and fragrant cattails; after spring rain, clustering on hidden islets. Red apricots and crimson peaches; dodder and pennycress; linked hills covered with medicinal herbs stored in cages. Horse iris knows the seasons; madder and indigo cannot compare. Stanza 1: Pine with twin trunks—as recorded in the Erya chapter. Only in the divine capital does numinous beauty concentrate in Fuyu. Bearing the cold-season form; its needles alone are five per cluster. Eight thousand years make a spring, eight thousand years make an autumn—the great chinaberry's span stretches through myriad ages. Clothed in splendor; holding clouds and hiding mist; jade radiance descends upon the Dipper pivot. Three-forked and five-leafed—it nourishes numinous herbs; the land produces strange treasures revealing secret tokens; the land produces strange treasures revealing secret tokens. Stanza 2
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西 殿窿 輿 殿
Establishing the Grand Pole, No. 27: Establishing the Grand Pole—the Minister of Works measured the broad compass; Strengthening the empress's seat; the Grand Astrologer presented the jade square and plumb line. Straight paths completed; three ways reaching nine thoroughfares; Consulting yin and yang; a hundred walls built by cord and rule. Stanza 1: South virtue flourishing; facing the yang, Departing Village is bright; East pacifying the near; Outshaking trigram, green yang opens. West cherishing the distant; metal phase pacifying armor and weapons; North fortune flourishing; star-omens and celestial tracks connect to heaven's gate. Stanza 2: above, Heaven's blessing; lofty and bright, following vigorous conduct; Below, Earth bears; broad and deep, matching Kun virtue. Left, inner governance; grand counsel pacifying the ancestral court; Right, outer pacification; sound teachings spread through double translation. Stanza 3: the exterior faces the twin towers; in hardship, reflecting on martial achievement; Achieving Great Peace, ruling with folded hands, contemplating civil virtue. Chongzheng Hall, domed vault matching the purple walls; Phoenix Tower, plain and without carved ornament. Stanza 4: the booming music resounds vast; Heaven's Gate opens through nine layers; Fans tower high; at the cloud's edge the golden gate opens. Splendid carriage and robes; caps and gowns bow to the crown tassels; Solemn majesty; feathered guards array spears and halberds. Stanza 5: the night clepsydra runs out, yet the guards' meal is still passed; The dawn bell rings; hastily the cock-man's headcloth is presented. Planning for enduring greatness; the court has many who speak frankly; Scheming for complete safety; at the palace steps no strategy is overlooked. Stanza 6: drawing on the Rites Classic, the suburban altar is built south of the capital; Consulting ritual regulations, displaying reverence and presenting the green jade disk. Sacrificing at the closed shrine, spring and autumn diligently maintaining filial thought; Honoring ancestral covenant; the Director of the Imperial Clan oversees the ancestral tablets. Stanza 7: gaining Heaven's heart; songs of praise—as lawsuits return; Winning men's hearts; Hao and Luo resound with numinous majesty. Securing the Central Plain; the grand design lays foundation for ten thousand ages; Serving as the secondary capital; on imperial tours receiving the assembled nobles. Stanza 8
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西 西
Resplendent Qing, No. 28: resplendent Qing—the auspicious mandate ascendant; completing heaven and leveling earth, forever dwelling at the center. Sage succeeding sage, continuing abundant achievements. Institutions set the age's seal; ruling heaven, riding the six dragons. Stanza 1: music displays virtue, rites complete in form; broadly spreading sound teachings, the eight directions connect. One moral principle, customs alike. Imperial might races to the sea borders; the immortal retinue passes Kongtong. Stanza 2: singing of duckweed and water plants, singing at the Bi Yong; honoring virtue and punishing evil, awakening the blind masses. The blind have their arts; the sightless have their masters. Living to old age to become proper persons; the elm and oak flourish lush. Stanza 3: sighing over the land's protectors, consulting officials and craftsmen; plowing clouds and cultivating rain, toiling at their achievement. Painting Against Idleness, picturing the Bin Airs. Leading and nurturing to match heaven; granaries and bins enrich our farmers. Stanza 4: planting at the bathing river, mulberry responding to the wind; in ceremonial robes facing east, displaying women's work. Solemn on the altar mound, compared with the Former Farmer. Elders rejoice in moral transformation; plowing and sericulture the emperor honors. Stanza 5: organizing the border shields, towering golden walls; with the right men, governance accords with the emperor's heart. The sweet pear tree spreads; millet seedlings flourish lush. What is neglected or fallen, none left unrepaired; ten thousand li all brought under tribute districts. Stanza 6: opening the three residences, reaching the four keen senses; from all sides recruiting outstanding men, holding the utmost fairness. Mist-hidden leopards flourish; cloud dragons follow. Saying 'raise those you know'; their names written on the screen. Stanza 7: inspecting farming and taxation, easing land and labor taxes; divine granaries storing millions, prepared for famine and disaster. All protecting and benefiting, reviving the poor and destitute. Summer rains and bitter cold alike transform into spring breeze. Stanza 8: ditches and canals dredged, track roads connected; broadly opening the earth's channels, marshes and hollows. Where water benefits, good years naturally come. Vast is the wave of grace; not today alone celebrates repeated abundance. Stanza 9: one-tenth tax, proper tribute supply; seeking the people's wellbeing, overseeing the Minister of Agriculture. Spared from ditches of death, joyfully eating morning and evening meals. Reducing above to benefit below; emperor and king share frugal virtue. Stanza 10: seas surge vast; waters pay homage to the source; sun east, moon west, emerging from within. Dawn after dawn, without end or limit. Embracing Qian and receiving Kun—what is there it does not encompass? Stanza 11: turning the celestial orb, driving thunderclouds; fine life flourishes and plants spread—artemisia and mugwort vanish. Raining abundantly, breezing warmly. Utmost sincerity accords with Heaven's heart; effortless action yet sincerely reverent. Stanza 12: consulting canonical rites, appointing the Minister of Rites; abandoning excess, enhancing beauty, sincere and useful. Bamboo with firm joints, pine with steadfast heart. Rooting in heaven to govern earth; day and night assisting like Kui and Long. Stanza 13: arising from the heart, connecting with governance; making music to honor virtue, responding to the eight winds. Dances solemn, drums booming. Encouraging with the Nine Songs, alternately serving as their tones. Stanza 14: armies march to measure; gathering to remove warfare; wrapping spears and anointing armor within a hundred years. Guarding against the unexpected, careful of the end. Solemnly reviewing military affairs, grand inspection displaying army formations. Stanza 15: owls eat mulberries; in the forest academy grove, petty men change their faces and follow obediently. Joyful chests at ease; prisons empty. On the lawsuit court grows green grass; prison officers follow Confucian ways. Stanza 16: orchids have blossoms, cassia has thickets; white colts in empty valleys—how can it not be harmonious? No worthy left behind; all serving the public good. Heaven's work, others take on; the six directions reach supreme flourishing. Stanza 17: shield-wall and feudatory domains entrusted; firm as bedrock, the imperial clan; root and branches for a hundred generations, five ranks honored. Ritually dividing jade, not cutting the paulownia. The imperial line flows and stretches long; how can one speak only of west and east of Shan? Stanza 18: continuing ancestral martial ways, inheriting clan achievements; O sovereign, in succession treading the center. Zhen holds the chief vessel; Qian flies as the dragon. Sage upon sage truly succeed; with fixed crown tassels, looking up in sincere reverence. Stanza 19: omens coil like lightning, auspice flows like rainbow; for myriad years the sage line vast. Qilin stirs for Si; Yi marries from Song. Cultured sons and cultured grandsons; billions of years without end. Stanza 20: blessings of abundance arrive, bright and harmonious; all rejoice receiving blessing, vast and grand. Sweet springs overflow, rich dew thickens. Ascending steps accords with upright fortune; the ten thousand things are peaceful and connected. Stanza 21: timely imperial tours, assemblies paying homage; fine banners and colored pennants, leather stirrups and bridles. Jade and silk offerings gather; interpreters follow. Numinous prestige shakes barbarians and Chinese alike; the four seas look up to the imperial person. Stanza 22: following the emperor's decree, spreading the emperor's heart; blessings from ten thousand years afar all come together. Zhou praised Mount Yue, Han called Mount Song. The talisman chart—Heaven never ages; governing transformation like the sun at its zenith. Stanza 23: music of nine parts, songs thrice ended; one journey one ease, magnanimous virtue alike. Ministers pledge their loyalty, blind men present to the lord. Shi Mai drums and strikes; gold, stone, reed pipes, and bells harmonize. Stanza 24
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西
In the twenty-fifth year of Qianlong, the Western Regions were pacified; suburban rewards and victory music—sixteen naoge stanzas obtained.
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Emperor's Suburban Sacrifice to Heaven, No. 1: The emperor sacrifices to Heaven; Heaven's mandate matches the emperor; where Heaven's heart lies, the emperor tacitly agrees. When sun and rain are as wished, wind and thunder bright; breathing and response connect through sincerity. Fulfilling Heaven's punishment, executing treacherous schemers; the sage's army acts only when unavoidable. Martial achievement complete, the kingly way flourishes; those who submit live, those who resist perish. Imperial majesty reaches throughout distant wilds; for billions of ages, virtue beyond measure. Bestowing blessing and lasting merit-signs; both great ones shed glory.
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Blazing Moon's Cave, No. 2: Blazing Moon's Cave—shaking sun and abyss. Sweeping away the Huai barbarians, opening military colonies. Thus expanding from Yili; land vast, things abundant. Like Dayuan and Sogdiana, Baltistan—all admire and think without rest. They say China has a sage; they wish to belong to the border realm. Thus reaching the steps of the highest heaven; every village under the net—none fail to accept the calendar, serving as our outer feudatories. The emperor joyful and at ease, bestowing blessings to the world's edges. Causing each to be healthy in nature and long in years.
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西
Shaking the Royal Battle-Axe, No. 3: shaking the royal battle-axe at heaven's western pole. You foolish Hui, long bound in fetters. Like silkworms in cocoons, lice in underwear—drawn from water and fire to bed and mats. Let you hunt your fields, dwell in your settlements; nurture and warm you, bathe in our civilizing grace. The Qoqon fed fat, the savage turns and bites; fomenting rebellion and stirring chaos—how can they not be executed? Shaking the royal battle-axe, dread majesty blazing.
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Attacking Kucha, No. 4: Kucha rises up; our troops already attack. There are cunning ones lying in wait; they come like wind. Twice annihilating the ugly bandits; arrows like bees, like hedgehog quills; pulling down their Hui banners; rebel necks shrink and wither. At the Ogren River, whale and crocodile block the waves; rebels stunned meet death, trapping themselves in pens. Only those who turn rebellious—take no warning from ambush in wild grass? Birds cry from the tent; fish slip through the net.
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西
Foreheads to the Ground, No. 5: foreheads to the ground—they yield themselves; swiftly advancing the army. Wherever they go, enemies cower; neither resist nor oppose. Faces slashed, bowing in worship; tears and mucus streaming. Saying only our tribal chief, the savage boar spreading like owls—pity our people, flesh wounded and scarred. Like the mole cricket shaking a tree—do they not know themselves? Axes undulled, arrows undepleted; thus reaching straight to the far west wilderness.
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Black Water Battle, No. 6: Black Water Battle—horses on perilous ridges; isolated army deeply penetrating, seized by the enemy. Bees swarm, ants gather, arrows and stones mass; our horses though weary, our men unmatched. Standing walls erected, wielding spears and halberds; rebels come close attacking, only a foot apart. Fierce-eyed one shout—all yield; lead bullets hit trees aiding our strike. Spirit springs and fire-rice supply cooking; besieged three months, none dare press close. Since antiquity who compares to such wonder—among ten thousand rebels, only four hundred troops.
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Reinforcements Come, No. 7: reinforcements come, come from Heaven. Swift as stepping on shadows, quick as pulling smoke. Reinforcements come, rebels look back. Striving like mantises blocking, puffing like angry frogs. Reinforcements come, firmly wheeling in battle. Men wrapped in blood, horses dripping sweat. Reinforcements come, vanguard returns. Crushing tiger dens, kicking anthills. Reinforcements come, as if divinely aided. Months ago, obeying decree to hasten.
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Aksu, No. 8: How high is Aksu; wheeling troops briefly to rest. Storing sharpness, tempering spear-sockets; selecting the hard, making helmets. Famous steeds thousand teams come; frost spreading, clouds floating as they gallop. Exchanging cloth for their grain; baskets and boxes for dried provisions. Soldiers fed, horses also spirited; morale already breaks the chieftains.
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鹿鹿
Deer Thus Flee, No. 9: deer thus flee, awed by majesty. Troops enter loaded; attacking the vital point, striking the flank. Gripping the throat but not biting; horns locked in combat. Both kinds of rodents exhausted; paired beasts leap together in flight. Abandoning wagons, baggage, old and weak; fleeing to peril for brief rest, spirits confounded. Fire singes fur, wind turns bamboo sheaths.
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Kashgar Surrenders, No. 10: Kashgar surrenders, performing song and dance. Royal army enters, each secure in place. Laws set in several articles; soothing and comforting you. Taxes follow the Chong standard, coins follow the round treasury. Comforting your people long oppressed; flourishing your farming and grazing; releasing your swords and axes. Once living in caves and nests, now bright houses; the resplendent imperial stele shines through ten thousand ages. Since primordial chaos, this land was wild brambles and shrieking; how could it ever belong to the Central Plain?
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西西 西
Ishijili, No. 11: Ishijili—two horses cannot drive; rebels not fully destroyed, they hold their corner. They claim one man guards the pass, ten thousand cannot cross. A detachment presses them suddenly and they collapse in panic; turning their weapons, hundreds surrender. The rebel leader's heart shatters in terror; he alone flees, barely escaping with his life. Ishijili—achievement that cannot be erased. Who can compare? Only Gede Mountain.
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西 使 滿
The Peace Gate Opens, No. 12: the army's might on display. The vast western lands, voices turned inward. Proclamations seek those hiding in ditches; the Qiang peoples dare not conceal themselves upon hearing. The earth's deepest pits exhausted, heaven's net spread wide. Those fleeing the bowstring fall; touching the frontier brings further harm—their envoy arrives to present the already stiff corpse. The Peace Gate opens, banners unfurl; camp drums and horn blasts echo with long celebration.
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Heaven's Decree Fulfilled, No. 13: The Yellow River clears once in a millennium; the sage appears once in a millennium. Events since antiquity that astonish all; only through heaven's resolute judgment can such completion occur. Wielding divine symbols, penetrating primal essence; twenty thousand li advance like thunder. Through secret counsel and direct commands, the six directions become clear and peaceful. Heaven's decree fulfilled—its towering achievement cannot be named.
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Imperial Rite, No. 14: The emperor has announced, appearing before the assembled ancestors. Reverent and diligent, receiving heaven's mandate. Continuing this martial achievement, extending the frontier anew. Preserving and creating, both in one person. Guiding the nations below, establishing the people. All who possess blood and breath revere and draw near. Great filial piety receives the command, blessing in its pure form. The benevolent palace celebrates; heaven and earth rejoice together.
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The Waters Open, No. 15: waters flow vast. Five colors brilliant, displaying their patterns. A grand stele proclaims achievement, standing at the palace wall. Bells, gongs, and drums resound together, bright as the sun at its zenith. The great monument and massive work complement each other; encompassing essential meaning and re-emphasizing it. Exalted discourse opening confusion for all regions; multitudes awaken with clarity, doubt's barrier removed. The stele rises like jade at the lecture hall; models of study and recitation extend without bound.
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The Imperial Design Fortified, No. 16: vast and grand; all peoples on the realm stretch necks facing inward to the triple and quintuple flourishing era. Ministers request noble titles; the emperor demurs, instead maintaining fullness and preserving prosperity. Reverently accepting heaven's mandate without slackening day or night; now discussing rewards and cherishing the troops. Inquiring into the people's hardships; exempting next year's land tax and levies. All beneath heaven's cover receive overflowing grace; all rejoice together for ten thousand years.
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In the forty-first year of Qianlong (1776), after Jinchuan was pacified, suburban rewards were given; Iron-Gong Songs, sixteen sections.
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西
Imperial Might Abundant, No. 1: Sacred strategy proclaimed; imperial might abundant—wind moves, lightning strikes, all things shaken. Things shaken; fame and spirit race forth—nothing hard unbroken, nothing high untoppled. Formerly the Western Regions; the territory expanded—twenty thousand li our frontier bounds. The two Jinchuan—daring to resist; creating unrest themselves, fittingly destroying themselves. Five years to complete the task and remove the fierce and stubborn; spring breeze blows the naos through Peach Pass. Reporting victory and returning; tiger ministers and bear warriors all leaped with joy.
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Cautious in Campaigning, No. 2: Suonuomu, Senggesang—leopard-born, bear-nurtured, jackal-attached, wolf-dependent. At first rival factions fought like snail-ant armies—what need for axe and adze? Over several years they increasingly nibbled neighboring borders; thus each met disaster. Moreover hearing rumors from Weizhou; treacherous hearts concealed; gradually treating restraint as betrayal, forgetting grace and virtue. The situation compelled no alternative; we ordered our military ranks. The army marched with caution; in action none was not good. Thus proclaiming their crimes; punishing their madness.
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西
Pincer Attack, No. 3: Wrath blazed forth; two armies pointed forward. Balangla—following the wind, all collapsed. Taking Dawei; capturing Zili—the western route pincered, the southern route locked horns. Yuezha already taken, Kayademi captured; Gebu Shizan restored his territory—precipitous as Dawu, what could be relied upon? Gongs struck, watch-clappers answered; making mad spirits tremble and shrink. Pincer attack's might; repeated thunder racing.
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Zanla Pacified, No. 4: the screen of Lesser Jin—called Senggezong. Monkeys could not climb across; stout blockhouses thick as groves. Our army scaled first; destroying dry wood, shaking bamboo sheaths. Plunging deep into their barriers; pressing straight to Meinuo. At Bulangdimu, pursuing and surrounding through dense forest; his son fled with mouth agape; his father was captured. Han Niuban submitted; proclamations sent, all submitted; Zanla entirely pacified; military fame resplendent.
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I8
Punishing Cujin, No. 5: the Cujin chief—a refuge for fugitives, crimes especially grave. Reviewing troops and shifting direction; punishing their factional collusion. Paths blocked by piled snow; our army delayed. They secretly watched for openings; ■I8 displaying their cunning schemes; surrendering tribes responded in confusion, flocking to join. Firm on the southern route; ordering the host and turning the chariots back. New ramparts built; sharpening spears and halberds; thus advancing to camp at the edge of field and ridge.
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西西
Swift Thunder Returns, No. 6: selecting our imperial guards—brave and strong; seven thousand men, one against ten thousand; led by the general with flags and drums raised. The Dingxi seal conferred; western route advanced; southern route as auxiliary—fame shook together; rewarding and leading swift talents, charging boldly to battle. Seizing banners and pressing ramparts—morale soared; treading peril like level ground, troops never halted; like bears and tigers terrifying flying squirrels and moles. Zanla's entire territory—weeded of roots and vines; within ten days recovered throughout; thunderous and swift—how rapid!
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西 西
Eight Banners Valor, No. 7: Eight Banners troops—they come like wind. Western route enters; Guga opens through. Southern passes—Kemani, Lakewo—large as whetstones. Libations on three routes; hearts and strength united; overcoming peril, merit in the west. Lamu Mountain, Rize Pass—holding Mogeh, cutting off their rear. Eight Banners troops—valor beyond price. Green Standard troops—all inspired and roused.
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Cornered Ape Stiffens, No. 8: our army raced with prior fame; the ugly bandits' will was divided. Fleeing chiefs submitted to secret execution; bound and presented, carrying corpses on their backs. Qitu and Menggu—bound like chickens tied in a row. Wives and children bound and brought along; caged and conveyed to the capital. Alas, the cornered ape stiffens—disaster swift as burning forest brings.
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西 使
Blocking Yixi, No. 9: northern route perilous—called Yixi. Rebels defended to the death; limited to inches and feet. Rongbu shifted troops; following the path westward. Chuosi requested to remain; willing to serve at command. Striking with surprise to win—rebels scattered; braving rain to display troops, the army refreshed. Blocking the mountain ridge; building our ramparts.
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鹿
Crossing Deep Moats, No. 10: pressing victory to attack; rebels resisted and blocked. Stout blockhouses towered; deep moats dug. Kangsar Mountain—paths perilous and peaks abrupt. Deer-antler stakes thick as hemp; relying on barriers, paths intertwined. Our army pressed close like pushing open a door—however deep, however lofty—leaping over in one bound. Occupying their summit; trampling their lair; Musigong—taken as easily as picking up. Overlooking from on high and pressing down; looking down on jagged cliffs overgrown; spirit swallowed, strength followed in uprooting.
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西西
West of the River, No. 11: West of the River—thorns and brambles beyond reckoning. The commander-in-chief decided victory, attacking with combined force; making rebels unable to look back, feet unable to find footing. Ripang and Youluo—stockades and palisades; abandoning and fleeing like emaciated pigs stumbling. Firing their cliff edges—blazing bright; for fifty li the ground turned red. Rebels secretly gasped; remaining embers turned to ash. The Flying General—from heaven he came.
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Rear Route Cleared, No. 12: flanking the river in formation—armies facing one another. Wind and clouds connected; morale grew stronger. Ga'erdan already attacked; like water poured from a high eave—blocking their thrust. Clearing the rear route; strategic calculation bold. Ambush lurking was the trouble—only at Xunke'erzong; scaling walls and hacking holes like splitting a thicket. Rear route cleared; rebel power exhausted; hereditary ministers succeeding in valor—merit and fame exalted.
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One Den Destroyed, No. 13: Kunse'er—high astride the ridge, perilous; pulling down dry wood, looking down on flying flames. Zaidahai with one whip-stroke of command; stratagems by the hundred—Kelesie besieged. In the eighth month, at midnight; moonlight mirror-bright—gall chilled, demons and sprites. The cunning have three dens—one den was already destroyed. Polishing shields, racing to Mulan; on the eighth day the red banners came.
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Pot-Bottom Souls, No. 14: Xili already divided; Kajiaosi broken. They were stubborn and unresponsive; mantis axes blocking the wheel-tracks. Suolongkebu—repeatedly breaking their strongholds. Anbulumu—swiftly sweeping away their weakness. Sheqi attacked at dusk; Yongzhong captured at dawn. All outer defenses withdrawn inward; nest and canopy tottering. Rebel territory daily contracted; only one in a hundred remained. Gathered at the pot's bottom; wandering souls—how could they prolong?
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Den Ants Swept, No. 15: rebels held firm—Gala Yi. Cornered beasts still fought—surrounded on four sides; striking their belly and heart, the outer defenses could not hold. Jiazadusong collapsed west of the river; Mabang—picking mustard seeds—they destroyed themselves. Land nets and water weirs joined our army; encircled with great cannon, scorching as expected. Plans exhausted, begging for life—the rebel chiefs captured; criminals thus obtained, old and young seized. Den ants swiftly swept, none left behind; settled through a hundred battles—faith such as this.
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Martial Achievement Completed, No. 16: martial achievement completed—Pearl Mound proclaimed. Rites completed, the imperial halt; victory bulletins just reported; recording merit, grand rewards—imperial edict issued. Thus escorting the empress dowager's carriage east on the hunt return; holding suburban reward rites; presenting chained captives at the altars of soil and grain. Honoring virtue and attributing beauty; elevating the honorific title. Personally composing the merit-recording stele; carved at the Imperial Academy; ranking meritorious ministers in order; banquet at Ziguang Hall; painting their likenesses. Stationing troops and establishing garrisons; civilizing instruction harmonized; for billions of years peace at the frontier passes.
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The twenty-seven sections of Clear Music for Patrol Iron-Gong Songs were established in the seventh year of the Qianlong reign, 1742.
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宿 耀
Nine Dragon Pennants, No. 1: Nine Dragon Pennants—standards and flags hang like stars arrayed across the sky. Dragon Horn and the Celestial Field appear; the Winnowing Basket and Wings stretch open as ever. Dragon Tail coils on in turn; Lead Ox recently, Heart of the Room raised; the Eastern Wall gleams with stellar passage. First stanza-break: tender and lovely—Kui's pattern, a splendid sun on heaven's stairs; the Three Stars banner trails nine tassels; Jade Well, pearls in a row. The Willow Seven Stars—each curve bent like a coiled hook. The Harmony Gate opens; ten thousand screens are drawn aside. Second stanza-break.
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Stirring Imperial Majesty, No. 2: Stirring Imperial Majesty—fine mountains stand like barriers, emerald screens all around. Tree colors deepen; smoke threads into wisps; Mountain mist locks in the light; clouds sink lower. Turning at steep peaks, silk reins gently pressed; crossing lofty ridges, jade bridle lightly raised. Tortoise-shell armor, gold-inlaid helmets; in moonlight and wind, plain silk banners flutter. First stanza-break: pacifying the frontier borders; mindful of generals and commanders, the campaign drums beat. Skilled in the Eight Formations, aligned with the Nine Punitive Campaigns; employing the Three Drives, deploying the Nine Encirclements. Mountains and peaks tremble; wind and clouds shift hue; Securing the borders; crane and stork formations vie in splendor. Driving swift steeds, straddling slender black horses; the sun rides high, apricot-yellow banners unfurled. Second stanza-break: laying the foundation for enduring rule; for a century the royal army has not been needed. In parks and preserves, unicorns and phoenixes dwell; tribute jades arrive by sea and by land. During slack seasons in farming, they practice the autumn hunt; When times are harmonious, they train bear-like warriors. Lion-skin belts, brocade skirts; under clear skies, crimson banners hang still. Third stanza-break: in an age of great peace, beacon fires are unneeded and military dispatches are rare. Beyond the four outskirts, no beacon towers stand; among the four peoples, many live to old age. At elm and mulberry village altars—our fields, our crops; Palace guard youths—fierce as tigers, bold as bears. Short rear jackets, Man-Hu blades at their sides; distant mountains—a sweep of azure-blue banners. Fourth stanza-break: amid green shade, victory music and song sound beautiful; reed pipes and clear flutes ring out. The four seas rejoice in a flourishing age; ten thousand states aspire to the royal assembly. Horses like dragons; winding carriages like flowing water. Horses like dragons; winding carriages like flowing water. Fifth stanza-break.
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Marshaling the Tiger-Brigades, No. 3: Marshaling the Tiger-Brigades—following heaven and adapting to terrain. Building ramparts along the mountains; seizing victory and vying in stratagem. Zheng goose, Yue wild goose, crane and stork together with the Fish-Scale formation. Winnowing Basket and Wings spread open; the Constant Mountain disposition employs divine stratagem. The Great Unity's Secret Yin Talisman; Primordial Heaven's Hidden Stems and Branches—marvelous. Female and male, square and round; vertical, horizontal, slanting, sharp—changes arise at will. Left sharp halberds, right mighty halberds; vermilion arrows with crimson feathers fly without return. Morning sun spreads painted banners; willow-leaf patterns adorn blue-black steeds; carts and writing unite for ten thousand li on the same rails and tracks.
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River Runs Clear and Sea Is Calm, No. 4: rivers run clear and seas are calm—dogs in flower villages do not bark. Drilling troops and training soldiers; the command tent holds many brave and strong men. Secret strategies for war leadership are passed down; tiger-brigades array spears and blades. Village flutes rise through evening mist; cymbals and drums compete in clamor; the outskirts remain serene. Thunder rumbles and lightning flashes—this is truly expedition without battle, expedition without battle.
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Imperial Road Level, No. 5: the imperial road lies level—brocade ranks open, treasured standards hang; sun bright, wind mild, auspicious air fresh. Forward banners bear singing kites; spring flags trail through willow smoke. Listening from afar—calling the clear rainbird, cuckoos cry. Precious carved bows—colorful, front and rear. Bold spirit at the frontier; flowers scatter on willow-leaf saddles; whips strike brocade coins strung together. Cymbal and drum sounds—each rank floats out toward distant heaven. Farmers work their own fields; village children laugh and chatter on their own. Gazing ahead at the vanguard, early crossing Sunset River. Gazing ahead at the vanguard, early crossing Sunset River.
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Scenery Clear and Bright, No. 6: scenery clear and bright—all things revive, clouds and objects renew the imperial chart. Auspicious signs gathered; feathered regalia in endless succession halt upon the spring fields.
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調 耀
Sacred Martial Splendor Illuminated, No. 7: sacred martial splendor illuminated; the jade candle harmoniously tuned—autumn hunts and winter hunts raise banners and flags. Trailing rainbow pennants; the four quarters forever settled, rejoicing in the clear dynasty. Carved bows long sheathed; Dragon Spring long stowed; Gouchen guards and escorts, the Celestial Pivot gleaming. At the two staircases, feathered dancers subdue the Miao; sweeping away the comet-star, dancing Shun's music. Heaven's center in great harmony; civil instruction spread abroad—spread civil instruction.
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Imperial Wind at Peace, No. 8: imperial wind at peace—scenery beautiful; the primordial dragon splendid, celestial tassels raised. No painted banners; incense censers trail fine smoke; fallen flowers scent-imprint horses' hooves round—fallen flowers scent-imprint horses' hooves round.
76
綿
Auspicious Clouds Appear, No. 9: auspicious clouds appear—cloud-glow splendid; clear birds sing in fragrant meadows. Willows lush and thick; wind comes, catkins toss, soft threads caught and snagged. A flourishing age abounds in clear peace; praising Yao's years, blessing Yao's years.
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Following Heaven's Course, No. 10: following heaven's course—the jade carriage, golden axle-tree. Escorting the imperial tour; ten thousand riders mass like clouds; horn bows and reed-drums compete in sound. How fine the chariot expedition—the prince sets out on campaign. Selecting chariots and followers—heard but not seen. First stanza-break: at the threshold of ascending peace; clear furrows, fragrant field-paths. Celebrating the three farmers; a hundred households full and at peace; feather banners and fungus canopies reflect in staggered array. Mindful that the people depend on him; the emperor's concern redoubles. Rejoicing in clear times; all bear the emperor's benevolence. Second stanza-break.
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殿
Rainbow Flows at Flower Islet, No. 11: rainbow flows at Flower Islet—starlight and lightning circle the Pivot. Celebrating the Long Star blazing bright; auspicious clouds overflow; securing the imperial chart forever firm. Neither smoke nor mist—neither smoke nor mist; Eastern Sea, Fusang; within the sun, the golden crow. Sparse and coiling; towers, terraces, halls, and palaces—heaven's wine congeals as sweet dew. Amid hazy mist and cloud; grand music of the Harmonious Heaven—all pass before the wind. When times are clear, feasts are often bestowed; the people rejoice and taxes are remitted. Joyfully following the heavenly escort—stately and orderly—how many court officials in their ranks.
79
西
Imperial Capital Without Outskirts, No. 12: the imperial capital without outskirts—moreover, sun and moon shed their radiance. Unified carts and writing; auspicious unicorn in the thicket, phoenix comes with proper bearing. Tribute in baskets and hampers; tortoiseshell and patterned rhinoceros; it is said azure clouds touch the Lü pitch-pipe. Islands and islets made level; the sage ruler of the central land faces the sun; delighting as the imperial carriage descends, he inscribes the Eight Views. First stanza-break: Lugou Bridge at moon-dawn; moreover Western Hills after snow clears—auspicious colors faintly gleam; Golden Terrace in evening sun trails slanting light. Great Liquid Pool—ten thousand acres of glassy water. There are also Juyong's layered emerald; steep peaks towering high. Towering high—Jade Spring Rainbow, Jade Isle Spring Clouds; outside Jizhou Gate, hazy mist and rain fly. Second stanza-break.
80
輿輿
Summer Proverb Song, No. 13: summer proverb songs spread through the nine regions; again seeing mountains layered and waters winding back. Wind-indicator high points to still dust; this is indeed the spring terrace of ten thousand states. Singing 'the sovereign is enlightened'; singing 'the ministers are worthy'; 'how diligent'; 'all affairs are well governed.' Rejoicing the imperial carriage has arrived—rejoicing the imperial carriage has arrived; no need for fish; mulberry and hemp veiled in mist. Crossing high plateaus; dragon banners surge in abundance. Stirring the imperial breast; touring all around, lingering. Stirring the imperial breast; touring all around, lingering. Recognizing the people's love and support; folk customs harmonious. The men of Huafeng bless the three abundances—the red sun draws near the stair of Yao. From this day forward, may the imperial chart endure for a thousand autumns and ten thousand generations.
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穿
Fragrant Field Song, No. 14: behold fragrant fields like brocade meadows, long catalpa on ancient roads, slender willows by clear springs. Wind comes like thunder, drawing the bowstring; sunlight on linked armor flies like bright silk in clear weather. Singing apes and falling geese; drooping willows already pierced through. Red sun, purple swallows; ant mound again turning; military bearing blazing bright like thunder and lightning. First stanza-break: hunting is always practice for war—the Chariot Expedition's four stallions, the Royal Regulations' three fields. Five boars once sung in the Zhao Nan chapter; seven outriders used to warn the Minister of Education's display. Beasts fat on shallow grass; dragon banners held with reverence. Seizing jaws and gripping foreheads, tiger-guards bear the return; the carriage sets out on the hunt, following ancient rites. Second stanza-break.
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Wowa Pool Song, No. 15: within Wowa Pool, pearl mist thick and swirling. Heaven produces dragon steeds; the park keeps auspicious unicorns. Ordering the stable masters, selecting their qualities, timing their fodder and grain; ten thousand riders in endless array. Eyes like mirrors side by side, bamboo-split ears upright; proportions match the moon; wind enters and spreads light. Green Serpent guards the hub; Purple Swallow pairs at the yoke-bar. Galloping long distances, man and horse in mutual accord—like a sage ruler finding worthy ministers.
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Beautiful Capital, No. 16: the beautiful capital—honoring frugality, following the model of Yao and Tang; great governance facing the sun; ten offices in goose formation; consulting on government affairs, maintaining official norms. Adorning the railings, no need for carved inlay; Arranging rafters, no seeking of blazing splendor. Coral and jade-green—how can they compare to thatched roofs and earthen walls? Matching the imperial carriage; Great Unity moves at the center; establishing the era name, receiving heaven's gift. Opening the imperial chart; dwelling in honor, steering the pole, following the people's hopes. Spirit Terrace records auspicious clouds and objects; five planets beautify the Literary Star. Extending to the four states, reaching the eight wilds. Gazing at clouds and turning to the sun, all return home; singing virtue and praising custom, long life and health. First stanza-break: golden walls stand firm on broad plains; auspicious air, the imperial residence majestic. Celestial configuration belongs to Tail and Winnowing Basket; earthly veins open to Penglai and Langyuan. Lush and verdant—as pillars and axles, equal in wheel-span. Lush and verdant—as pillars and axles, equal in wheel-span. Second stanza-break.
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Tracing the Rising Capital, No. 17: tracing the Rising Capital—truly the emperor's homeland, founded through hardship. Establishing the central plains, covering ten thousand regions; great peace and restful nurture. Source of water, root of tree—succession and order never forgotten. I received the mandate broadly to carry it forth, following the old regulations. Diligent in sacrificial rites, without error and without forgetting. Without slackness, without neglect; renewing the old domain. Gathering auspicious jades; wearing caps, presenting scepters. Coming to enjoy, coming to pay homage; a wheel of red sun embraces Fusang. Grand music recorded in resounding notes; singing of Yan and Hao; arriving at the Bright Hall. Clouds shift, Northern Dipper forms heaven's image; wine draws near Southern Mountain as a longevity cup. Extending to the four states, reaching the eight wilds. Gazing at clouds and turning to the sun, all return home; singing virtue and praising custom, long life and health. First stanza-break: Zhou of Qi and Han of Pei would rather yield; beholding the heavenly countenance, harmonious sun clears—all gaze upward. Beholding the heavenly countenance, harmonious sun clears—all gaze upward. Second stanza-break.
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西
Reaching Imperial Heaven, No. 18: reaching imperial heaven—following the people's hearts; voice and spirit brilliantly wash, cloud and rainbow gaze. The Ming dynasty ended at one hundred six; remnant fraction, intercalary position; filth defiled heaven's norm. Solemn heavenly might; in one sweep the comet-star is cleared. Fixing the two wings, arraying banners and flags, dividing into eight ranks. Yellow, white, red, blue like laid brocade; east and west in succession, from north to south, like mountains and peaks—each forming one rank. Grasping the Wondrous Classic; heaven dark, earth yellow. Four odd and four even, embracing creation and penetrating yin and yang; wind and cloud part and join without constant form. Vertical and horizontal, Eight Trigrams—changes without limit. Grasping divine stratagem; position at the center. Following the River Drum; first ascending to the supreme general. Left nine stars, strung like pearls; right nine stars, bent like a frame; at center the authority, jade dipper sets the command tent. Sharpening spears and halberds; weapons and armor finely made. Meritorious ministers' achievements recorded on banners and tablets; harmonizing campaigns relying on eagle's flight. Temple calculations long; military bearing strong. Command greatly settled; oxen leave black stalls and return to peach fields; horses shed golden bridles and rest at Huayang. First stanza-break: army steadfast, auspicious harmony, heaven's image formed; sacred martial forces must be drilled. Might extends, four seas clear; grace reaches a thousand commanders. Behold the central forest—nets solemn and orderly; wall-and-moat generals. Behold the central forest—nets solemn and orderly; wall-and-moat generals. Second stanza-break.
86
退 駿
Daling River, No. 19: Daling River—open and bright, lofty and clear. Covering spring meadows; fine grass spreads in glory. Raising slender stalks; alfalfa flourishes when autumn comes. First stanza-break: spring waters flow; murmuring jade sounds. Gathering in broad marshes; water clear, sand bright. Pouring into the Liao River—one stream clear as a mirror. Second stanza-break: vast and level; crisp, refreshing wind clear. At the season of Huaitai; summer retreats, coolness arises. Farewell to scorching clamor; flying mosquitoes know to avoid the realm. Third stanza-break: suited for pasturing livestock; stallions on the open plain. Sweet water and grass; gadflies and gnats do not startle. Year by year they multiply; fodder and grain never against their nature. Fourth stanza-break: selecting dragon steeds—how refined their gleaming colors. Tossing Purple Swallow; mane raised, long neighing. Some ride the current, going upstream through shallows over sand bars. Fifth stanza-break: spirit bold and free; born in You and Bing. Held by Xi officials; head halter of gold. Some light and agile; ten-thousand-li ambition for long campaigns. Sixth stanza-break: some gnaw at the trough, relying on pride, anger rising. Some lie recumbent in lush grass and long woods. Some go to bathe; shimmering glassy water pure. Seventh stanza-break: some tied to trees—body at ease, limbs light. Some bend to graze; sand rich, grass fragrant. Some start and gallop, as if fearing the coral whip's shadow. Eighth stanza-break: some lift a hoof, lingering, not yet moving. Some race in stride; floating clouds join the journey. Some in matched teams hesitate on green sedge paths. Ninth stanza-break: some bold and singular—high forehead, eyes exposed. Some deep and steady—steps far-reaching, vision clear. Some leading foals—blood-sweating steeds bred at Heaven Pool. Tenth stanza-break: rejoicing in flourishing times; marsh horses display their spirit. Twelve paddocks—all nurturing Room Star essence. Driving the drum carriage; distant lands still bring funeral gifts. Eleventh stanza-break: foundation for ten thousand years; sea and realm clear and tranquil. Black Flying Yellow; the phoenix carriage harmoniously sounds. Selecting for patrol tours, not valuing Taotu steeds. Twelfth stanza-break.
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滿 J2 駿 I0
Hunting on the Plain, No. 20: hunting on the plain—plain season, autumn of Shang. Sun's splendor spreads; moon's golden waves; mountains and rivers like brocade. Trailing bright moon; no need for fish nets; employing the Three Drives; now galloping, now rushing. First stanza-break: Xiāoniǎo teams dance like dancers; great roads depart like flowing water; pavilion youths with feathered canopies follow the spirit park. Moon full, Crow Call strong; sand melts, dewy grass soft. Second stanza-break: master holds the bag, workman holds the drum—from summer hunt to spring hunt. Nestlings and fawns collapse; fierce beasts grow anxious; Great White on the left, Celestial Wolf on the right. Early driving on the plain; exterminating birds, destroying beasts. Third stanza-break: they say, observe their banners—Three Stars reclining, wind pennants. They say, observe their horses—riding obscured jade dragons. Clashing halberds and spears; tying reins, fitting quivers. Beasts startled, men angry, voices chirping; hunt enclosure at sunset, wind long and slow. Fourth stanza-break: rain of beasts, wind of birds—piercing ribs, striking throats. Eyes flash like lightning; bloody clouds float; wet silk—a puff blows the sword tip. Season belongs to the third autumn; stern congealing air gathers; tree leaves, mountain cold, emerald canopy thick. Fifth stanza-break: who prepares the arrow quivers?—it is the Fanruo bow; Who restrains and feeds them?—it is the Qulu spear. To form the six armies—is this truly for hunting birds and beasts? Truly the emperor's virtue; brilliant divine plans; Great Steps gleaming, threading heaven's pivot. Sixth stanza-break: red clouds follow the passing carriage; purple air beside the traveling shafts. Mountains like dark eyebrow pigment; water like oil; clear and piercing, reed-flutes sound, songs on horseback. Yizhou, Liangzhou—where the splendid whale strikes, the spirit kui roars. Seventh stanza-break: practicing the five military arts; ordering seven outriders; Minister of Education applies nets and sets carriage snares. Raising clear drums; wearing leather caps; beast ministers bow in congratulation, same as the hunt. Three hunts in one year display canonical rites; Bin songs—fox and raccoon-dog for the duke's fur robe. Eighth stanza-break: cloud peaks encircle; imperial canopy thick. One shot, five boars; offering the season's male; numerous and waiting like mountain mounds. Those wounded in the face are not presented; broadly covering tracks is sought; honoring benevolence, disdaining courage—extending the king's plan. Ninth stanza-break: galloping deep, beating sharp oars; rushing danger, ducks flying in light carriages. Blocking wasps and hornets, fortifying kongs; long and broad, beginning with Duke Liu; shaking and blazing, ten thousand states secured for a thousand autumns. Tenth stanza-break: buds and flowers in Dui; the corner of Split Wood. Solemn is the original temple; august is Pearl Mound. Seasonal sacrifices with pure filial offerings; responding in praise, bestowing great blessings. Offering fragrance, then drilling troops; jade carriage commanding tiger-brigades. Eleventh stanza-break: Yalu River—green waves flow; Changbai Mountain—white clouds float. At the capital they dwell; eastern wing displays the celestial orb. Imperial carriage arrives at the secondary capital; splendid banners trail along the touring route. Tang's net open on three sides; the Zouyu transformation can be matched. Twelfth stanza-break: round round hundred-foot pines; lush lush thousand-span catalpas. Where do dragons hide? Jackals and rhinos supply leopard skins; heaven's paddocks' finest steeds come to the court stables. Coming to court stables; Zaofu holds the reins, Wang Liang grips the shafts; looking down on Zhou's eight fine steeds roaming. Thirteenth stanza-break: Wendu'er, Zegou Lou. Measures and scales follow imperial norms; imperial grace and merit flow. Forever a thousand eras; light to six dark regions; stars divide Tail and Winnowing Basket, raising Chiyou. Spirit might shakes layered; all solemnly become dukes and marquises. Fourteenth stanza-break: Wu and You—auspicious days chosen; metal virtue always firm, Great Fire flows. The emperor's warriors—all good companions. The emperor's assistants—ascending to great plans. Phoenix bearing at court; unicorn in the thicket. Presented to the Son of Heaven; ten thousand states are harmonized. Fifteenth stanza-break.
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調 滿
Sun Rises at Fusang, No. 21: sun rises at Fusang, imperial wind stirring—sun rises at Fusang, imperial wind stirring. Heavy dew abundant; golden stem, immortal palm. The sage Son of Heaven, just facing the sun. Greatly manifest, greatly inherited; within the six directions, grace and bounty broad. Boats and carts arrive; all come to pay homage. Beholding unification—great peace truly has its signs. First stanza-break: following the Chariot Expedition, singing of flourishing times—a crimson cloud, six dragons descend. Clustered a thousand officials in egret order; ten thousand ranks in mandarin duck formation. Competing in striking; cymbals and bells ding-dong; Distributing wind and splendor; banners and flags sway. Vast multitudes of the people gaze at the heavenly countenance; all say it is the spring terrace—all say it is the spring terrace. Second stanza-break: shading with splendid fungus; arranging the immortal escort. Embracing tiger-brigades; ten thousand riders surge and prance; splendor following the dragon, responding to arrayed signs. Thick and dense; encircling guards, Gouchen screens imperial light. Thick and dense; encircling guards, Gouchen screens imperial light. Imperial might bright; summer proverb blesses—our king tours in pleasure; Rites of Zhou record—the Son of Heaven tours the regions. Third stanza-break: royal road polished; suddenly broad and level; clearing the way, dust swept, smooth and open. Like viewing the River Chart carved in jade; comparing traces to Yao and Tang. Spreading civilizing instruction; imperial virtue relayed like post stations; Presenting tribute jades; ministers' hearts turn like sunflowers. Vast multitudes of the people gaze at the heavenly countenance; all say it is the spring terrace—all say it is the spring terrace. Fourth stanza-break: adjusting the jade candle; heaven and earth clear and bright. Fortunate to encounter; timely patrol hunt; grace vast and boundless. Waves turn emerald; shimmering ripples crease the silver pond. Pressing yellow clouds; lush and swaying embroidered earth. Together rejoicing; abundant years pacify ten thousand states. Fifth stanza-break: attendant carriages gaze at one another; choosing scenic spots, roaming freely; spirit wind offers freshness. Leading phoenix banners—leading phoenix banners; turning dragon pennants fluttering. Embracing the aged people; joyful hearts with palms joined. Heaven's blessing harmonious and smooth; bowing heads in praise—the nine-likes ode. Raising cups in Jin; ten-thousand-year goblets. Sixth stanza-break: suddenly the imperial breast opens to extend wise appreciation; joy at gazing from afar—the jade carriage, emerald curtains. Joy at gazing from afar—the jade carriage, emerald curtains. Beside the broad road, beating clods in alternating song—sacred longevity without bounds. Counting Shun's days; arrows in quivers, bows in cases; ten thousand Yao years—phoenix dances, unicorn soars. The Way spreads heaven; the Way gathers times—canonical statutes blazing bright. Wind moves earth; divination for touring the regions. Forever cherishing gentleness; timely advancing through its domains. Inspecting farming and taxation; ten thousand wells receive restful nurture. Inspecting farming and taxation; ten thousand wells receive restful nurture. Ah, rejoicing in the flourishing dynasty; serving the sage emperor. Seventh stanza-break: inner and outer mountains and rivers—the great chart vast; truly none dare not come to enjoy. Reins and leather harmonize with bells; banners and flags abundant; transforming sun hangs high, just stretching long. Heaven can be matched; earth can be paired. Heaven can be matched; earth can be paired. Eighth stanza-break: joining phases lightly; Han Wudi crossing the Fen above. Showing following the hunt; punishing past excess. Felt for shafts, orchids for barriers. Ordering the Minister of Education; sharpening adornments, military stores strengthened. Not using fire to hunt fields; not presenting face-wounded game. Driving dragon-patterned steeds; soaring through open sky. Ninth stanza-break: arraying these green huts; again opening the jade tent. Ordering mountains and rivers; same measures and scales. Moistened with bestowed gifts; all spread and flowing. Banners, rainbows, felt, rainbow—offering imperial joy; auspicious signs layered with gifts. Offering imperial joy; auspicious signs layered with gifts. Tenth stanza-break: encircling auspicious air; heaven's harmony brewing. Everywhere is Upper Forest spring, full to the view. Flowers beside the carriage, as if holding back a frown; holding back a frown, pouring pearl pouches, washing worldly dust. Performing Shao music; Grand Music Master presides; misty rain; veiled haze, censer fragrance. Truly throughout the world; grace flows, virtue vast as the ocean. Behold carved foreheads and lacquered teeth—all bowing heads. Surely knowing he continues the sage succession, surpassing former kings. Eleventh stanza-break: ascending peace, cosmos abundant in harvest; diligently aiding; heaven's work, human effort bright; listening from afar to Mount Song's long cheers of ten thousand years. Twelfth stanza-break.
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簿 西 西 祿
Nine-Five Flying Dragon, No. 22: Nine-Five Flying Dragon—celebrating timely ascent, Nine-Five Flying Dragon. Ninety thousand li of brocade rivers and mountains—returning to great unification. Today's emperor continues the sage succession; able to carry on abundant merit. Gazing like clouds—gazing like clouds—it is the sun with robes hanging, hands folded in repose. Reverently illuminating heaven's work—reverently illuminating heaven's work; all ladders and boats come together to pay tribute. First stanza-break: ten thousand images open primordial chaos; surpassing Zhou style and Yin eulogies. Cultivating culture, resting arms; treading the imperial throne; clear-sighted and far-hearing; surpassing Tang, transcending Song. For billions of years, the great treasure golden vessel secured. Coiling and winding; celestial dew faintly drifting; Splendid and gleaming; rising sun bright and merging. Second stanza-break: reviewing five years; rites completed, patrol hunt follows the Chariot Expedition. Selecting the day; imperial guard array displays majestic ceremony. Majestic ceremony; Weiyang at moon-dawn passes the sparse bell. Slowly spreading pheasant fans; gently opening the bronze dragon gate. Mixed and crowded; a thousand officials lead forward, phoenix banners rising. Stately and orderly; ten thousand spirits call and embrace. Offering imperial joy; five-colored cloud carriages move. Following in advance; grace and bounty recorded vast as the wild goose. Following in advance; grace and bounty recorded vast as the wild goose. Third stanza-break: times harmonious, ten thousand blessings come alike; attendant ministers brush ears, at ease. Yu's domain, level and even; how much sweet rain and gentle wind. Heavenly countenance shows joy; brilliant imperial compositions; writing flows, unicorns and phoenixes soar. Like the Milky Way; that bright turning; ink treasures cherished for a thousand autumns. Fourth stanza-break: sometimes sweet dew drops like pearls—sometimes sweet dew drops like pearls; sometimes jade springs of sweet wine surge. Sometimes marshes yield golden carriages; sometimes mountains open—when mountains open, silver jars are obtained. Only the utmost sage—sufficient to oversee, sufficient to contain; truly not displaying yet deeply reverent. Ascending Cloud Peak, phoenix carriage lightly moves—ascending Cloud Peak, phoenix carriage lightly moves; crossing Sun Viewing Terrace, reins and orioles carry song. Fifth stanza-break: incense burner beside the sun, warm; attendant carriages, auspicious clouds surge. Behold country paths—millet and grain piled like beams; blessing without bounds; Bin folk ascend the hall in praise. Spreading virtue and transformation; folk customs deep and serene; joy everywhere—times harmonious, years again abundant. Registered commoners everywhere moistened by nourishing rain; hearing cheers—from south, from north, from west, from east. Sixth stanza-break: regulating institutions; measures and scales alike; pattern shaking layered; tribute jades offered. Leading the distant and near; north reaching Mount Heng; Leading the distant and near; north reaching Mount Heng, west to Flowing Sands, south covering Jiao and Yong. Canonical rites all restored; garments like Hua Xu's leaves; voice and spirit, gods awed. Truly forever thus presenting auspicious tokens; rousing unicorn bearing, phoenix ceremony. Seventh stanza-break: a hundred offices—ah, in proper order; a hundred blessings truly gathered in pattern. How continuous! Forever pacifying the people; how august! Truly holding the center. Timely patrol and visit; tiger-guards escort and follow. Following regulated performance; sounds harmonize with the eight winds. Following great covering; leading all to raise their boundaries. Registered commoners everywhere moistened by nourishing rain, rejoicing in meals—from spring, from summer, from autumn, from winter. Eighth stanza-break: repeated brilliance, accumulated harmony like heaven eternal; vast and lofty, utmost flourishing; emerald carriage comes, purple air embraces. Ninth stanza-break.
90
綿 便 輿 駿 宿 殿滿
Sacred Virtue Lofty, No. 23: sacred virtue lofty harmonizes the nine heavens; greatly opening the civilizing assembly; splendid blessings continuous; flourishing harmony, people and things more fresh and bright. Beautiful at the Purple Enclosure; planning stars move by night; phoenix banners depart from suburbs and plains. First stanza-break: river clear, sea calm; royal way just and level; thinking of civil plans, martial glory; greatly inheriting, greatly manifesting. Founding majestic; taking as model the completed statutes—forever without fault. Second stanza-break: ten thousand regions guest-submit; benevolent wind fans; righteous renown proclaimed; carved foreheads, filed teeth—double translation comes to court with tribute. East wind favorable; Huangzhi and Wuyi recognize the timely advance. Moreover White Wolf and Black Rabbit, Golden Horse and Vermilion Kite—all enter the registered cart, far and wide. Third stanza-break: voice and instruction without bounds; spanning the nine regions; controlling the eight directions. Ascending Yao's mound; passing Yu's domain. Comforting Yin's land; traversing Zhou's plain. Gradually covering to the ends; gazing up at clear light—the Northern Dipper hangs high. Fourth stanza-break: Kongtong Mountain's color emerald as smoke; visiting the Daoist is not far. At Guye there are immortals; drinking wind, inhaling dew; graceful and lovely. Riding cloud and mist; controlling azure heaven. Lord Yu's house personally toured everywhere. Fifth stanza-break: balmy wind brushes five strings; nurturing peace, joy, and profit; everywhere mulberry, hemp, chickens, and dogs. Mouths full, bellies drumming; scenery worthy of envy. Auspicious purification; gathering folk songs, inquiring customs, arranging imperial carriage; clearing the path, resting at mulberry fields. Sixth stanza-break: touring the river, five elders dance lightly; purple pole light connected; one scroll of charts and books in sleeves—all present to Red Mound. Eight fine steeds tread cloud and mist; flying thunder, flashing lightning; Yellow Bamboo poems; jade pool clear banquet. Seventh stanza-break: examining antiquity, thinking of former sages; upright with jade crown hanging; attendant carriages in fragrance; dawn departure breaks through lingering mist and sky. Rainbow banners roll; Orchid Hall; auspicious air fills the level stream. Eighth stanza-break: Mount Tai level with heaven; seventy-two lords once halted their carriages. Mount Tai, Liangfu, Cloud Pavilion—solemnly honoring feng and shan rites. Gold-clay seal; green-script jade tablet preserves cinnabar seal-script. Ninth stanza-break: palace guard encircles in bright brocade robes; ten thousand riders in matched teams appear and vanish. Yellow clouds at horses' feet; white sun on pine tops, lush and green. Shell leaves, three flowers; stone fungus, five colors—swaying, brushing cold mist. Tenth stanza-break: rainbow felt, colored escort, five clouds linked; willows reflect banner gates; at Hao, receiving Zhou's feast. Singing phoenix visits Dai; banners and canopies cross the Fen; midstream flutes and drums shake tower ships. Eleventh stanza-break: occupying the Qian position; at the origin of virtue. Eight Trigrams arrayed; Nine Categories extended; the imperial pole dwells at the center and builds. Sage emperors and enlightened kings—one tour, one pleasure; fragrant footsteps transmitted through past and present. Twelfth stanza-break: ascending peace, nothing to do—three hunts per year; facing the royal regulations; examining the Feng and Ya; winter hunt, autumn battue. In advance setting the season's warning; forest officers take charge. Rear path with pennants; front with leather-canopied carriage; jades strung, pearls linked. Thirteenth stanza-break: training canon clear and manifest; timely patrol is every five years; cloud and sand, carriage road, grass lush. Virtue's voice rises over the red counties; black dragon as horse; sun and moon as banners; frost plain, jade as fields. Encamping, wind soft; one iron-gong song stanza; rainbow chant of Great Canopy immortals. Fourteenth stanza-break.
91
西耀 E6
Pacing Roaming Dragon, No. 24: pacing roaming dragon—pavilion youths with feathered canopies; arriving and halting at green fields and emerald suburbs. Behold swaying; vermilion banners with gold ornaments; five-colored auspicious clouds drift. Selecting an auspicious day; just as beautiful scenery holds Shao music. Fine springtime—it is that the court has the Way. Fine springtime—it is that the court has the Way; whirlwind wheels and lightning candles reflect star banners. Harmonizing the imperial breast; poems singing of Polygonum and Artemisia; cloud-marked precious brush unfolds heaven's literary grace; imperial thoroughfare, celebratory mist enfolds the sky. First stanza-break: grace and might broadly spread to the eight directions; a hundred prosperities, ten thousand kinds—all bear the potter's shaping. Covering west, gradually reaching east; voice and spirit shine far; thereby observing the people and establishing instruction. Heir-apparent's praise—all who have blood and breath, none not trusting; honoring and supporting; sweet dew descends; glory's light encircles. Amid five clouds, all gaze heavenward and recognize the ochre robe. Second stanza-break: long road, waves turn—peaks encircle; sailing seas, climbing mountains, chests of thatch. Wuyi and Huangzhi; remote regions all come together. Bearing heaven's grace; containing great creation. Dancing gracefully; joyful, drunk, and full. Tongue-men double-translate; feeling heaven's covering and shelter. One tour, one pleasure—the people rejoice; Zhao mode begins; Zhi and Jue; ruler and ministers continue songs, looking up to the flourishing dynasty. Third stanza-break: children riding bamboo horses; elders leaning on dove staffs. Ten thousand years clear and peaceful, grace and bounty; returning carriage, deep grace receives fine grass. Fourth stanza-break.
92
調 輿 輿 殿
Celebrating the Imperial Chart, No. 25: celebrating the imperial chart—founding the realm at Yan capital. Repeated brilliance, accumulated harmony; sage transformation spread abroad. Jade candle tuned; golden vessel firm; touring the regions—following the footsteps of Lord Yu. First stanza-break: when the sage is born, he first emerges among the multitude of things. Grasping the Qian talisman; receiving the precious register. Singing the Tian Bao; what blessing is not removed? Ascending Mount Heng; sun and moon dwell there. Second stanza-break: vast within the nine domains; entering the three withouts. Benefiting the common people; grace and bounty moistening all. Moving toward goodness without knowing it; thoroughfare songs, lane dances. Auspicious signs—vast and abundant, supporting the carriage. Third stanza-break: heaven's auspicious signs—celebratory clouds, sweet dew. Sun has double light; stars have linked pearls. Earth's auspicious signs—marsh horses, mountain carts. Sweet springs—gushing like ghee. Fourth stanza-break: only grasses and fungus—some purple, some vermilion. Only phoenix and unicorn—some seven, some five. Golden boats, silver jars—wandering at the king's place; Mount Song high—long cheers of ten thousand years. Fifth stanza-break: ah, all rejoice; comforting this domain. Thinking of martial glory; thinking of civil plans. Recalling that Chariot Expedition—recorded on stone drums. Auspicious day—declaring use of the Three Drives. Sixth stanza-break: ritual officers arrange ceremony; feathered riders star-scattered. There are banners and pennants, there are felt standards and feather flags. As turtles, as serpents; as bears, as tigers. Vigorous and strong—neither fast nor slow. Seventh stanza-break: gentle and harmonious; mild wind, sweet rain. Millet abundant; panic millet lush. Repeatedly abundant years; feeding our farmers. Farmers—gazing up at the imperial carriage. Eighth stanza-break: emerald splendor thus raised; fragrance draws from the imperial censer. White clouds emerge at the mound; azure clouds touch the Lü pitch-pipe. Comet-star becomes gate; bright moon becomes wall. Dust cleared; encircling guards all around the lodges. Ninth stanza-break: only spring has replenishment; only autumn has aid. Where there is no slackness; thereby touring, thereby pleasure. Jade scepters, bi disks, gold and tin—thinking of our imperial norm. How august—unified carts and writing. Tenth stanza-break: behold that Eastern Mountain; opening our domain. Broadly possessing the four seas; continuing Yu's old domain. Sage succeeding sage; thereby securing clear blessings. Divining years—blessings without bounds. Eleventh stanza-break: where the phoenix carriage passes—abundant, heavy dew. Five phases in proper order; myriad grasses flourish luxuriantly. Tent palace at ease; drums and pipes harmonious and pleasant. Tiger-like bowing; Winnowing Basket plan gathers blessings. Twelfth stanza-break.
93
輿 輿 輿 駿調
Ten Thousand States Gaze at Heaven, No. 26: ten thousand states gaze at heaven—celebrating abundant harvest, flourishing times. Blazing auspicious clouds; Shun's sun beautiful at the center. Gathering rivers and lofty peaks, recording poems; attaching to carriage, holding reins, marking star signs. All reaching the pole; again displaying norms; correcting grace and might, able and strong. Following the golden-root carriage ascending to the countryside—following the golden-root carriage ascending to the countryside. Imperial heart clearly reaches; imperial benevolence broad; harmony bells strike, harmony bells sound. Virtue transforms, wind moves over grass; punishments set aside, arms melted; achievements bright, work shining. First stanza-break: spring inspection, autumn inspection—concern for our emperor, concern for our emperor; Gouchen solemn emerges from jade gate; clustered flowers encircling, times harmonious and full. Times harmonious and full; flashing dragon banners; surging and rising. Flashing dragon banners; surging and rising. Palace guard flanking hub, suddenly cloud-prancing; displaying bearing—jade carved, gold adorned. Second stanza-break: every village paints ascending peace; abundance in wild fields, granaries full. Once the dragon carriage descends; nine gates resound, gazing up at dragon light. Wind pure, customs fine; springs and waters all modest and yielding. All modest and yielding; success reported; distant tracks surpassing Yao and Tang. Third stanza-break: arriving at spring suburbs; birds sing, flowers smile; resting at mulberry fields; morning correct, farming auspicious. Splendor everywhere bright in green spring; inspecting farming and aiding—truly not near, not far. Fourth stanza-break: season enters Huaitai at flourishing growth; rain fattens plums still brewing; clear shade, wheat wind cool. Splendid clouds soar; lovingly saying—all things equally spread and flowing. Water-lily and lotus fragrance carries imperial censer fragrance; sacred mood joyful and pleased, worthy of extended appreciation. Fifth stanza-break: gazing at Di plain; autumn air crisp; guiding imperial carriage; yellow chrysanthemum fragrance first released. Ascending the hall; raising rhinoceros goblets. Golden wind, jade dew, leaves lush on tang trees; ten-thousand-year blessings without bounds. Sixth stanza-break: Qian and Hai, wind firm; Xun and Chen, sun bright; rites extend to winter hunt, arranging immortal escort. Season receives celebration; year welcomes auspiciousness. Season receives celebration; year welcomes auspiciousness. Abundant special grace; moistened vast and boundless; king's carriage bells listen—clang clang. Wine and sweet liquor, pipes and reeds; drinking Yao's goblets; singing Shun's soil. Seventh stanza-break: thereby pleasure, thereby rest; drawing peace, drawing nurture; yellow-clad children and white-haired elders joyfully gaze upward; voice and instruction fully cover distant regions. Truly fragrant incense; scattered blessings; eight fine steeds all well trained. Cloud brocade spread out; unified carts and writing; same measures and scales. Unified carts and writing; same measures and scales. Eighth stanza-break: imperial tour, wise compositions come from heaven; broadly opening grace; favor's waves ripple and spread. Joy rises at meeting the bright and worthy; harmonious voices mutually echo. Ninth stanza-break.
94
姿 毿毿 鹿
Heaven's Mandate, No. 27: Heaven has a completed mandate; receiving this great foundation. Martial glory, civil plans—goodness thus bequeathed. Diligent is our emperor; able to continue the great design. Spreading heaven's gathering response; fully nothing not fitting. First stanza-break: reverently like unto Heaven; spreading the seasons, continuing thought. Seeking the people's tranquility; early and late consulting. Until reaching abundant years; stars harmonize—Net and Winnowing Basket. Already rich and abundant; guiding them to hold constant norms. Sacred reverence daily ascends; imperial command deployed in nine encirclements. Second stanza-break: manifest fine virtue; restrained fine bearing. Ordering the four directions; immersed in sage's shore. Following former models; grace and bounty diligently bestowed. What the people rest upon—like taking, like leading. Like xun and chi; guiding instruction without deviation. The emperor sage and divine; heaven bestows heroic bearing. Hearing clear, seeing bright; law and pattern, innate knowledge. All-embracing nurture; loosening the indignant string, playing it. Benevolence poured abundantly; primal energy dripping fully. A thousand autumns, ten thousand years—again beholding Si and Ji. Third stanza-break: common people bright and clear; five canonical relationships carefully marked. Washing and selecting, potter's shaping; penetrating bone, soaking flesh. Like those fields—already cleared and planted. Like those houses—already plastered and thatched. Imperial heart governs heaven; all things equally sustained. Both auspicious, both timely—joyful is the Fish-Scale formation. Fourth stanza-break: soaring wild geese—gradually reaching the great road. Bright white egrets—gathering at the water's edge. Abundant, the king has many worthy men; red knee-guards numerous. Binding and cultivating the self; careful with pivotal mechanisms. Assisting the Son of Heaven—why gather hairpins? Do not doubt. Fifth stanza-break: towering twin gate-towers; tranquil three frontiers. Upright and folded at Bright Hall; silently operating the celestial armillary. Rites cultivate, music refine; customs change, wind shifts. Golden instrument measures signs; jade pitch-pipe fixes time. Four wilds, eight wastes—truly none far abandoned. In the shallows, artemisia; in the wet lowlands, mugwort. Matching seasons, nurturing things; ten thousand states thereby pacified. Inspecting regions, establishing instruction—thereby achieving harmonious splendor. No boundary neglected in your state; only daily diligent. Sixth stanza-break: consult our three dukes and all your various officers. How dare one be slack and at ease? No level without slope. Establishing the state, favoring feudal lords—the king has no partiality. Divining clouds inherit auspiciousness; commanding the primordial tortoise. Farming affairs reported complete; autumn as the deadline. Vast that Milky Way—Kui, Net, Well, Beak. Measuring civil and martial; building ramparts, chariots and cavalry. Signs and girdle-stars bright and turning; the sage takes them as model. To supplement and assist; above continuing Yao and Gui. Billions of years; long life and blessings. Arranging the imperial carriage; raising splendid banners. Six armies thunder; ten thousand horses star-fly. White mountains lofty; green waters murmuring. Zouyu arrives; phoenix bearing proper. In boundaries and in management—the imperial heart is pleased. Seventh stanza-break: vast rivers and plains; open and winding far. Leftover bundles, lingering ears—like mounds, like dykes. Each prepares their grain; to feast our army. Birds and beasts fill the pens; large and abundant here. None not flourishing layered; forever relying on preservation and blessing. Seven outriders already driving; ten thousand masses all follow. Booming drums and bells; fluttering banners and flags. Pursuing beasts, chasing birds; great halberds, long spears. As iron-gongs and bells; bearing chang and bearing banners. Left pitch-pipe, right battle-axe; balanced among the officers. Gaze at that emerald splendor; vermilion flowers lush. Star banners, moon spears; brocade saddles, pearl whip-tassels. Rites to a hundred spirits; offerings at the four corners. The king uses Three Drives; do not compete in his might. I seek fine virtue; truly the king preserves it. Eighth stanza-break: displaying the six armies; like tigers, like bears. Heaven's blessing shakes; Zhou's way drives forward. Recording merit in the temple; none not reverently awed. Sheathing shields, stowing arrows; delighting in rites, honoring poetry—the Son of Heaven is their support. Ninth stanza-break: blazing hibiscus flowers; shaggy willow branches. Felt pennants graceful; painted dragons and hornless dragons. Shields and bucklers leaping; pursuing leopards and elk. Abundant sweet dew; poured in jade goblets. Your Majesty ten thousand years; governing ten thousand states, all return bridled. Tenth stanza-break: royal assembly has its chart; heaven's flowers rare and fine; red curtains at Yao village; azure base with green foundation. Patterned clams, great crabs; crested birds, marsh cocks. Feathered caps, honored ears; dew dogs, star banners. White deer, yellow qí; presenting their bear skins. At that marsh palace; jade-ringed water overflowing. Setting up the targets; shooting bears and wildcats. Pagoda tree hall towering high; thorny path bright and warm. Reed pipes sound, imperial banner halts; beautiful sun and gentle breeze. Four stallions strong; with carriages numerous; drinking to the end, saying return. Eleventh stanza-break: four matched phoenix teams; driving six hornless dragons. Crimson clouds divide the Five Elders; pearl dew moistens three peaks. Visiting Guye; bowing to Xiyi. Holding balance and compass; following principle according to resources. Brightly reaching, slowly; reverently self-contained, non-active. Twelfth stanza-break: broadly spreading civil virtue; cherishing and gentling spirits and gods. Heaven's mandate is not constant; think of this, dwell on this. Zhou's plain, farming and harvest—the common people's reliance. Remitting rent, granting relief; the king's words like silk threads. Completing and assisting; brilliant pure blessings. On Shou Mountain's sunny slope—do not gather your ferns. On Shang Mountain's face—do not gather your fungus. Three elders, five geng—grace and harmony proclaiming kindness. With support, with wings—your nature, your fullness. Bare-shouldered cutting the sacrifice; humble and humble thus acting. Show us Zhou's conduct; zithers, drums, pipes, and flutes. Thirteenth stanza-break: towering Mount Heng; You and Ji's governance. Crimson clouds, purple haze; branching high, lofty and steep. Green books, green cases—protected by the spirits. Wrapping kings, gestating emperors; driving the carriage, shining like Xi. Primordial springs, divine herbs; auspicious bridle, abundant stele. Thus ordering the Grand Music Master; thus summoning Hou Kui. Performing rites to Supreme God; feasting with red sacrificial ox. Presenting cong and bi; performing the Xianchi music. Kui linked, bi joined; stars and constellations scattered bright. Hollow flutes, jade pipes; phoenix feathers, unicorn horns arrayed. Fourteenth stanza-break: in the central marsh there is mallow; on Southern Mountain there is elm. Easy and gracious noble—jade pendants, shoes with patterned soles. Encountering bright flourishing; culture brilliant, merit lofty. Three tomes, five canons—blazing splendid prose. Originally continuing the Ya and Song; forever securing the heights. Fifteenth stanza-break.
95
西
In the twenty-fifth year of Qianlong, the western frontier was pacified—forty victory-song sections.
96
西 西 使 漿 滿 涿 ( ) 西 輿 西 駿
Sagely plans alone deployed—martial achievement completed; at heaven's pillar's western head, eternal peace is proclaimed. Observing the moon, divining the wind—transmitted since old; try listening to today's victory-song sound. No. 1: In past years the army returned triumphant from Yili; a famous king bound with a foot-length cord came as captive. Heaven's west, moon's nest—all stars bow; the martial frontier far opens from Mugu Valley. No. 2: Distressed together, younger and elder brothers; long bound at the barbarian court, the two Huamen. From nine heavens suddenly the royal army descended; breaking shackles first, bestowing grace of renewal. No. 3: Granted return to old tribes, favor and glory abundant; made to pacify remnant forces, releasing nets and snares. Only let Qilian Mountain serve as whetstone; do not allow Pulei Sea to raise waves. No. 4: Who expected hawk eyes would finally defy transformation; instead spreading owl voices, fanning rebel dust. Northern grasses all moistened by heaven's dew; yellow sand wrongly betraying frontier spring. No. 5: Vast heaven's net was always wide; long-accrued evil must be uprooted, the task to exterminate complete. Early and late at ease with grand temple strategy; a detached force again advances to seize the vicious and cruel. No. 6: Scaling ladders thunder at Kuche's walls; fleeing bandits in panic finally turned and ran. Who knew surrendered men would compete to offer allegiance; from a ruined nest, by luck a wandering soul escaped. No. 7: Tiger tally commands descend from crimson sky; ramparts and banners blaze anew in one morning. Suddenly sensing new atmosphere at Three Gates; the supreme commander again salutes Huo and Piao Yao. No. 8: One army early secured Shayar; a hundred walls soon taken at Aksu. Ten thousand li wind-gallop and lightning-sweep; great army directly presses the rebel city isolated. No. 9: Ants massed, bees gathered—for three months; bears crouching, tigers perched—one against a thousand. Mountain-like army strength originally hard to shake; ugly rabble vainly made to reverse spears and turn. No. 10: Quiver and bag—no need to carry grain when marching; early joy at living off enemy grain in the rebel city. Strange response—why be startled at rain of grain? The ground left fire-rice awaiting divine troops. No. 11: Heavenly nectar—how to draw when the Dipper brims? Land and sea vast and boundless at Shule city. Suddenly reported: spirit springs follow as wells are dredged; whole camp sings and dances, bowing to the king's brightness. No. 12: Flying squirrels finally know their tricks are exhausted; setting forest ablaze, flying cannon sound follows wind. Lead bullets picked up still destroy bandits; turned instead to aid the celestial dynasty's fire attack. No. 13: Heaven's stables fly—ten thousand riders come; Wind-Chaser already passed Fuyun Mound. Rotating soldiers match divine calculation; just made a surprise force, storming ramparts and returning. No. 14: Six cities lip-and-teeth choke Hotan; in one night surrender flags passed along the ramparts. Five li—why worry about losing Zhuo field? Turning to ride mist and fog, pacifying beacon fires. No. 15: All tribes holding orders entirely follow the wind; allied tribes supporting one another, horns together. Double translation presents Uighur-script memorial; joyfully becoming subjects and servants, interpreters connect. No. 16: Embroidered banners suddenly rolled, sharp divisions split; Gobi wind and sand gather evening clouds. Midnight—all rebel camps lose courage together; startled as the general descends from heaven. No. 17: Belly and back attacked together with combined force; claws and fangs all broken—where can they flee? Heaven's wind blows and scatters the ant army; hiding in dens, lurking like badger traps. No. 18: Yarkand's gate open and clear; Kashgar city towering high. This scenery never known since antiquity; only now have celestial troops come. No. 19: Turbans line the road bowing to banners; dried marshes raise sand long blazing under sun. Most miraculous is turning creation back; the rain master now also welcomes the royal army. No. 20: Long rumored wives and children gazing at rainbow clouds; now hearing cheers answer drums and war drums. Kneeling, offering carved trays, competing to present fruit; grapes and betel sauce hard to match together. No. 21: How fortunate are distant regions to bear Yao's heaven—from this Kun city arranges markets ( printers' ink). Light taxes only require alfalfa tribute; unified writing first exchanges for gold coins. No. 22: Strong divisions split paths, striking the knife ring; turning battle over time, grass and trees blood-red. Entering night, desperate pursuit—sound and shadow gone; mountain peak, bright moon—a bow bent. No. 23: Ten thousand masses compete to advance—barbarian spirit melts; cries halfway to heaven drop the circling eagle. To this day people passing Yixier still feel thunder shaking azure heaven. No. 24: Old reports said heaven's domains knew their direction; now awed by divine edge, none dare provoke. One by one all heads bowed in mud; tonight watch drums silent without sound. No. 25: Array joined, general flies feathered arrows; battle fierce, warriors draw carved halberds. Surrendered barbarians receiving orders—all hawks and hounds; rabbit running before the mountain—can it escape? No. 26: Remnant life temporarily preserved at Qinal; crafty den hard to find at Chobuhai. White magpie banner high, holding rebel heads; Dowa personally presents victory dispatch. No. 27: Lungs like lice, arms like dung beetles—cannot support themselves; kin departed, masses rebelled—where to go? Light blades cut arrays, trampling light cavalry; again reported split in two, carrying corpses. No. 28: Victory report star-rushed from remote regions; imperial garden clouds and objects, slight yang beginning. Reed ash not yet moved—spring already arrives; responding auspicious flowers compete, four radiances spread. No. 29: Delivering joy to the jade palace—daytime just long; together inviting empress dowager's blessing, rejoicing in timely peace. Martial achievement complete—respectfully praising boundless longevity; bestowing on kindred, all gaze at sun and moon's light. No. 30: Mountains and rivers compete to tell of territorial records; customs and soil vie to transmit royal assembly charts. This day western dimension exceeds twenty thousand li; Kunlun still lies at the eastern corner. No. 31: Mecca's happy land once was boasted—who expected it would become a well-bottom frog. From this heaven's quarter adds joyful color; truly teaching that territory belongs to the celestial house. No. 32: Rising sun dim and bright—primordial signs open; eight directions, seven governors at the jade platform. Persia and Arabia know reverent obedience; together toward the mallow steps, presenting the new moon. No. 33: Since antiquity ice mountains and snowy peaks at leisure—all taught to offer tribute and join court ranks. Where falling plum and spring wind flute? All the way bamboo carts connect to Jade Pass. No. 34: Presenting ears and flayed-skin merit recorded at Panlin; imperial compositions further carved on distant mountain peaks. Only behold the Milky Way proclaiming within and without; every word the heart of Tang and Yu's two canons. No. 35: Achievement complete—only then looking up to temple strategy divine; measuring sea, grasping plate—seeing not yet true. Lofty discourse proclaimed—deaf and dull awaken; together revering ultimate principle, analyzing heaven and man. No. 36: Grand altar—cong and bi display heaven's gift; Clear Temple—scepters and tablets announce great plan. Grand ceremony blazing bright—multitudes bless longevity; imperial heart solemn, itself gathering blessings. No. 37: sun beautiful, wind warm, phoenix tower open; nine heavens crimson edict, auspicious clouds float. Spreading heaven's heavy dew—grace broadly bestowed; amid victory-song sound, joyful bounty flows. No. 38: heroic glory all from sagely decision completed; ascending three, harmonizing five—altogether hard to name. Only now the foot-whip gathers beyond heaven; year tally—just seeing the fifth watch. No. 39: dancing with feathers, sheathing bows, six armies rest; recording merit, drinking to the end, bowing at crimson steps. This minor minister originally composed reed-flute songs; brush at ear, ashamed to lack vermilion egret verses. No. 40.
97
In the forty-first year of Qianlong, Jinchuan was pacified—Gaozong personally composed thirty victory-song sections.
98
廿 便
Twenty-fourth Mid-Autumn night, chou hour—in Mulan camp they deliver the red banner. Originally sleepless inquiring after military reports; who said tonight I would just see it? No. 1: Seven thousand li—the road far and distant; toward ten-plus days, now eight days. Can recognize all hearts share one will; excellent—bestowing rewards should naturally be proclaimed. No. 2: Rebel nest most of all Le Wuwei; Jiazadusong and Galayi. Bamboo-splitting momentum should succeed within days; swiftly transmitting victory news—originally no delay. No. 3: Mobile camp at midnight—whence the clamor? It is the red banner reaching Xumen. Five years' toil shared above and below; great merit gathered—all bathed in heaven's grace. No. 4: One red lamp point leads the red banner; in an instant the whole camp knows. Old tribes, new domains together rejoice; since antiquity victory reports could be like this. No. 5: As agreed, originally entrusted to the prince's journey; seeing the red banner, immediately report to the general. Though the empress dowager's heart already knew joy; further dispatching guards to report to the mountain villa. No. 6: One—breaking rebel nest, flying riders gallop; no leisure to detail and fully report. General displaying effort should receive superior reward; first showing the beginning, adding encouragement appropriate. No. 7: Last time accepting surrender only sheathed the axe; this round's victory report is plowing the court. Reverently receiving heaven's favor—how not be comforted? Not yet martial achievement complete—the heart not yet at peace. No. 8: Early-rising robes—only my principle fits thus; joyful yet sleepless—how can one sleep? Thus know the matter of sandal teeth truly exists; compared to that other, still high and low suspended. No. 9: Three victories hoped within one month; at this time military affairs closely related. Seizing the ringleader, sweeping dens—singing settled peace; waiting for suburban platform victory song and return. No. 10: Jiawu year at Taohua Temple halt; military dispatches just here, looking down from window lattice. Fortunate—today still at that leaning place; among green willows flies one point of star. No. 11: Le Wei victory report—night mobile camp; again meeting tomb ascent, daytime return journey. One moment—ten thousand people together joyful; bright sun and moon forever melt arms. No. 12: Three dens still extended over one month; six armies brave—how spare them? All around where fire weapons fiercely attack; early rotted the petty fish at the cauldron bottom. No. 13: Ten-plus days via plank road post—eight mornings arrive; one sheet of red banner, ten thousand horses fly. Flanking the road, tribes rejoice yet fear—the state's celebration, the state's might. No. 14: Treacherous mountains and rivers pacified—owl-vultures; evil deep, traps and snares—roots severed. From now tribal departments all settled; forced eating and treachery from this none. No. 15: Silkworm Cluster's absolute peril hid demonic miasma; hundred battles' achievement—since antiquity unheard. Kui drums dong-dong sound—victory presented; Qiang youths bow heads, escorting the general. No. 16: Solid blockhouses stand like forests in ten thousand-fold mountains; breaking peril, charging forward—all hardship endured. Reporting merit all relies on generals' strength; one red banner enters Taoguan. No. 17: Where Jiang Wei campaigned was called Weizhou; admired by Rong people's ballad words preserved. Today Le Wei is inner territory; Wuyou city truly is without worry. No. 18: Awaiting victory through winter into spring again; near completion especially feeling concern frequent. Tonight presumably finally resting on pillow; clearly told—be cautious, users of arms. No. 19: Dispersed this day—den nest toppled; settled peace from this can cease arms. Victory song—do not let it be easily heard; five years' merit fortunately completed in one morning. No. 20: Suburban platform still this suburban platform; how fortunate to rebuild the grand event come. Vainly saying several years passed in separation; spirit's attention like the sun accompanying. No. 21: Meritorious ministers lead bowing, arraying spirit banners; soldiers sound conchs, martial ceremony blazing. Music performs iron-gong song, holding and presenting; military inquiry family law—for ten thousand years hangs. No. 22: Jisi year army returned originally accepting surrender; Gengchen suburban reward rite vast as wild goose. Releasing oxen, returning horses—my lifelong wish; victory presentation—who expected to see both here? No. 23: Dzungar tribes returned, city settled five years; Jinchuan petty bandits also as before. Praising my generals and soldiers long sharing enemy rage; unawares toward them increased compassion. No. 24: Terrain perilous plus masses' will firm; forest blockhouses step by step fighting forward. Lesser than past affairs—hardship more than doubled; comforting thought always because heart troubled. No. 25: Carving caves to dwell, avoiding fire weapons; finally bound face-forward, exiting the frontier city. Clinging to life—ants are always thus; gathering clan to burn—words how sincere? No. 26: Suddenly passed in service five autumns; plank road rugged as if smooth post road. Flanking road flowers red again willows green; who would regret not seeking marquis rank? No. 27: Shedding martial robes, changing to auspicious robes; dragon insignia showing reward—special grace rare. United hearts, combined strength—again selecting the foremost; then releasing heaven's paddocks, bestowing six fine steeds. No. 28: Arms wash Jinchuan—never waves again; pond arrogance—what of it in the end? Liangxiang near and far—many common people; all joyfully come listen to victory songs. No. 29: Victory song—how easily heard? Five years' toil laboring all armies. I truly never rested at midnight; how much worry shared equally. No. 30.
99
西 西 駿
In the fifty-fifth year of Qianlong, Gaozong's eightieth year—Minister of Personnel Peng Yuanrui collected imperial poems into three hundred Wan Shou Qu Ge sections; the emperor returning from Old Summer Palace to palace, performed as forward guide. Moreover internally quelling, externally repelling—governance settled, achievement complete—ministers also repeatedly had memorial compositions for the throne. In the twentieth year of Kangxi, Ye Fang'ai presented imperial ya: Jingqiu twelve sections, praising accepting surrender; called Guan-Long twelve sections, pacifying Longyou; called Southern Record eleven sections, pacifying Min; called Great Flood eleven sections, pacifying sea bandits. Xu Jiayan presented iron-gong drum-and-blow songs: called Sage Emperor Emerges—the emperor received the mandate; Liao Water Settled, pacifying the Chahar rebellion; Pacifying Longyou, pacifying Wang Fuchen; Yuzhang Overturned, settling Jiangxi bandits; Sweeping Seven Min, pacifying Geng Jingzhong; Sea Waves Calm, driving off Zheng Jing; Pacifying Five Goats, punishing Shang Zhixin; Gui Waters Deep, settling Guangxi; Exterminating the ringleader—Wu Sangui died, rebels dispersed; Dongting Lake, pacifying Hunan; Recovering Chengdu, pacifying all Shu; Conquering Qianyang, settling Guizhou; Settling Kunming, executing Wu Shifan, pacifying all Yunnan; Civil Virtue Dance, announcing achievement complete. Altogether fourteen sections. Yuan You also presented Pacifying Yunnan iron-gong songs: called Sage Same as Heaven, called First Campaign, called August, called Splendid, called Clan Fields, called Former Yelang, called Ten Thousand Regions Pacified, called At Capital, called Examining Heaven's Heart, called Mountain Stone—altogether ten sections. In the twenty-third year of Kangxi, the Sacred Ancestor toured Qufu; Xu Yuanwen presented Eastern Tour ya thirteen sections. Li Zhenyu presented Personally Sacrificing at Qufu ya one section. Gu Qian presented Sage Governance ya: Eastern Mountain ten sections, Southern Merit ten sections. Jin Jujing presented Imperial Visit to Qufu yuefu twelve sections. In the twenty-eighth year of Kangxi, the Sacred Ancestor toured south; Zhao Zhixin presented Southern Tour yuefu four sections: called Southeast Spring—roads undisturbed; called Year Star Ballad, remitting rent and taxes; called River Water Clear, officials know law and integrity; called Peach Blossoms Burning, transforming folk customs. Peng Huiqi also presented Southern Tour folk ballads ten sections. In the thirty-sixth year of Kangxi, the emperor personally campaigned in the desert; the Eleuths fled; Chen Tingjing presented Sage Martial ya in three sections—Only Heaven, eleven sections, describing the first arrival in the desert, securing the frontier and defeating the enemy, and the flourishing of martial achievement; August, eleven sections, describing the pacification and settlement of the surrendered people; Martial Achievement Complete, eleven sections, describing the capture of rebel leaders and extermination of the wicked—the full accomplishment of martial achievement. Wang Shizhen presented Pacifying the North ya in one section. Du Zhen presented Pacifying the Northern Desert iron-gong drum-and-bugle pieces: called Exalting Sage Martial, Divine Strategy Swift, Standing Gold Ramparts, Overthrowing Fierce Beasts, Heavenly Steeds Like Locusts, Heaven Moves Strong, Trapping the Lone Chick, Submitting to Heaven's Punishment, Crossroads Songs Abundant, Martial Achievement Complete, Radiant Auspicious Inspection, and Displaying the King's Assembly—twelve sections in all. Chen Lun presented Sage Martial Achievement Complete iron-gong drum-and-bugle pieces: called Sage Martial Manifest, Carrying Out Heaven's Punishment, Reverently Offering Sacrifice and Announcement, Appointing Generals, Auspicious Omens Responding, Three Departures Beyond the Pass, Broadly Summoning and Welcoming, Great Without Outer Limit, Victory Song Returning, and Declining Honorific Title—ten sections in all. Song Junye presented Pacifying the North ya: Completed Mandate, nine sections, describing the Son of Heaven personally leading troops beyond the pass, quelling frontier turmoil, and securing the myriad people; Imperial Blessing, nine sections, describing the Son of Heaven's second departure beyond the pass, assessing military strength and deciding the right moment; Heaven's Oversight, nine sections, describing the Son of Heaven's third departure beyond the pass, the wicked driven to extremity, submitting to Heaven's punishment, and gathering great achievement. Shen Han presented Sage Imperial Carriage Northern Tour iron-gong songs in four sections: Pacifying Ten Thousand States, describing Heaven's majesty pointing north and the Eleuths fleeing far away; Following the Imperial Carriage, describing the great procession touring the frontier and the Khalkha earnestly offering their loyalty; Purple Altar High, describing virtue harmonizing Heaven and humanity, with sweet rain repeatedly pouring down; Six Dragons Return, describing the return to the palace for purification rites and the emperor's personal visit to the northern suburb. Jiang Chenying presented Pacifying the Desert and Returning to the Palace victory songs in seven sections: August, praising the imperial decision; There Is a Mountain Towering, narrating the true omen; Following the Army Music, sympathizing with officers and soldiers; Crossing the Great Desert, praising divine martial prowess; Two Principles Music, cherishing life; Male Fox, commending the generals for receiving divine strategy and achieving great success; Singing Triumphant Return, rejoicing that the enemy was pacified and the great procession returned early. In the second year of Yongzheng, Qian Chenqun presented Qinghai Pacified iron-gong songs: called Elk at Bay, Rebel Mother Captured, and Subduing the Wicked Horde—three sections. In the eighth year of Qianlong, Shen Deqian presented Tomb-Veneration Completion Celebration yuefu: called Sage Great Filial Piety, Departing in Imperial Carriage, Shengjing Music, Venerating Three Tombs, Cherishing Ancestral Merit, Rites Complete Banquet, All Tribes Paying Court, Great Hunt Review, Ever Bestowing on Kindred, and Six Dragons Return—ten sections. Wan Chengcang also presented God Above Sees in ten sections. In the fourteenth year of Qianlong, Liang Shizheng presented Pacifying Jinchuan ya: Continuous, five sections, praising the dispatch of troops; War Chariot, four sections, cutting down the two rebels; Abundant Clouds, five sections, describing the surrender of tribal chiefs; Phoenix Bridle, five sections, announcing achievement complete. Meng Lin also presented Sage Martial Far-Spreading ya in one section. In the forty-second year of Qianlong, Cheng Jingyi presented Pacifying the Two Jinchuans ya in four sections: called Sprouting Shoots, ten sections—Zanla began the rebellion, troops were marshaled and sent on campaign, and the region was pacified; Tiger Might, seven sections—Suonuomu harbored our rebels, held the passes and defied orders; troops were selected and sent across, military timing was weighed to crush the hardened foe; All Lands, ten sections—troops martial, ministers exerting strength, carrying out the sage strategy, capturing all the wicked hordes, martial achievement complete; Victory Joy, ten sections—sage martial already manifest, conducting celebratory ranked rites, extending boundless blessing. Graceful and harmonious, praising and extolling—these are merely the ministers' fine eulogies; though not yet promulgated by the Music Office, what the directorate inherently has worth recording is appended at the end.
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