574 t h e a n n a l s o f k i n g t’a e j o
watching, isn’t his request excessive? As I reviewed the precedents set by
sage kings in the past, it is impossible for me to make such a promise. A few
years ago, I admonished them to adhere to their tradition and respect the
laws from antiquity. If they admire our culture, I will allow them to visit us;
if they are against us, I will prohibit them from visiting us and let them do
whatever they like to do. You officials of the Ministry of Rites, send an
official letter to Yi [Sŏnggye] and let him know how I feel about his
request.’ ”The Ministry of Rites sent another official letter:
“Men Kexin, minister of rites, along with other officials, received another
imperial instruction, which was as follows: ‘Since antiquity, small states
have served the suzerain states and made sure that they chose the most
appropriate wording and expressions to show their respect. According to
the institutions established by ancient sage kings, those among the fiefs and
states, including various feudal lords, nine wild tribes of the east (jiuyi), and
eight wild tribes in the south (baman), who failed to pay tribute to the
suzerain state or attend the council meetings of the rulers of states were
required to submit an explanation concerning the failure of their duty,
choosing the most appropriate wording and expressions and showing man-
ners that are persuasive and polished. Looking at this, you will find that the
use of proper words and expressions is most important when the suzerain
state makes a demand of the vassal state or the vassal state serves the
suzerain state.
“Why in the past did the nations never stop having disputes and conflicts
among them? It was because they failed to choose the proper words and ex -
pressions or present persuasive reasons to their counterparts. Only Zichan^20
of the State of Zheng, being talented in the use of language, did not suffer
attacks from other states. In producing diplomatic correspondence, Bi Chen
made a first draft, Shishu reviewed it, Ziyu revised it, and Zi Chan polished
it until it became detailed and precise. Because they worked this way, they
never failed to maintain amicable relationships with the feudal lords [of
other states].
“On every holiday and occasion, Chosŏn sends us an envoy along with
congratulatory memorials. Though its memorials appear to show us all due- Also known as Gongsun Qiao, he was a statesman of Zheng who served as prime
minister from 544 b c until his death. He was responsible for many reforms and strengthened
the state under the difficult situation of being surrounded by powerful neighbors.