Book I 165
state. Finally, following the orders of Queen Dowager An, the widow of
King Kongmin, the people made Wang Yo, Great Lord Chŏngch’ang,
assume control of the state’s affairs. However, he was also so ignorant and
tyrannical that he threw the law and administration into disarray. He only
enjoyed associating with the slanderers and flatterers and kept away from
those who were upright and loyal to him.
“The officials as well as the people were frustrated and resentful, but they
did not know what to do. Deliberating over the cause of the problems, Queen
Dowager An intervened and made Yo retire to his private house.
“As a result, all the officials of high and low rank alike, the unemployed
sons of civil and military officials, retired officials, soldiers, and civilians
recommended me to assume control of the state’s affairs and the army,
saying that the throne that is in charge of administration and military affairs
as a whole cannot be left untended even a day.
“Lacking talent and virtue from the beginning, I declined their request
repeatedly but could not prevail against them. I am now so scared and at a
loss that I do not know how to carry myself.
“Your Imperial Majesty, with your infinite magnanimity and divine
wisdom, will understand that I had no choice but to accept the wishes of the
majority of the people and how reluctant I was in accepting them. I beseech
you to grant your recognition of me so that the people can find peace in their
hearts.”