An Arrow on the String: A Sigh for the Seasons

The late Emperor's enterprise was not even half complete when he passed away halfway through. Today, the realm is divided in three, and Yizhou is worn down. This is truly a moment of peril, when the state stands on the brink of survival or destruction. Yet the officials serving within the palace remain steadfast, and the loyal men outside it risk their lives. This is because they remember the extraordinary favor shown them by the late Emperor and wish to repay it to Your Majesty. Your Majesty should indeed broaden your audience and listen widely, so as to carry forward the late Emperor's legacy and inspire the loyal and ambitious. You should not think little of yourself, nor use inappropriate comparisons, for that would block the path of loyal remonstrance. The palace and the offices of the state form one body. Rewards and punishments, commendations and censures, should not differ between them. If anyone commits wrongdoing or breaks the law, or performs acts of loyalty and virtue, they should be handed over to the proper authorities for judgment and punishment or reward, so that Your Majesty's fair and impartial rule may be made clear. Do not show favoritism or apply different laws inside and outside the palace. Draw close to worthy ministers and keep petty men at a distance: this is why the Former Han flourished. Draw close to petty men and keep worthy ministers at a distance: this is why the Later Han declined. Whenever the late Emperor discussed this with me, he never failed to sigh with grief and resentment over Emperors Huan and Ling. The Attendants, the Secretaries, the Senior Clerks, and the Military Advisors are all loyal and principled men, ready to die for their cause. I hope Your Majesty will draw close to them and trust them. Then the Han dynasty's revival can be expected soon.

Theme: Historical chronicles of the Warring States era