文言文	现代汉语	English
孝成皇帝，元帝太子也。母曰王皇后。	孝成皇帝，是汉元帝的太子。母亲是王皇后。	Emperor Hsiao-ch'eng was the Heir-apparent of Emperor Yüan. His mother was entitled the Empress [née] Wang.
元帝在太子宫生甲观画堂，为世嫡皇孙。	元帝在太子宫时，（成帝）出生在甲观的画堂，成为世系中的嫡皇孙。	While Emperor Yüan [was living] in the Heir-apparent's Palace, [the future Emperor Ch'eng] was born in the Painted Hall of the First Lodge. He was [called] the Imperial Grandson Who is the Heir by the First Wife.
宣帝爱之，字曰太孙，常置左右。	汉宣帝喜爱他，给他取字为太孙，常常把他放在自己身边。	Emperor Hsüan loved him, named him the Heir-apparent of the Heir-apparent, and constantly kept him about himself.
年三岁而宣帝崩，元帝即位，帝为太子。	三岁时宣帝去世，元帝即位，成帝成为太子。	When he was in his third year, Emperor Hsüan died, and Emperor Yüan ascended the throne, [whereupon the future] Emperor became the Heir-apparent.
壮好经书，宽博谨慎。	成年后喜好儒家经典，心胸宽广，为人宽厚，谨慎细心。	When he grew up, he loved the classics, and was large-minded and generous, circumspect and attentive.
初居桂宫，上尝急召，太子出龙楼门，不敢绝驰道，西至直城门，得绝乃度，还入作室门。	起初居住在桂宫，元帝曾经紧急召见他，太子走出龙楼门，不敢横穿皇帝专用的驰道，向西走到直城门，得到允许后才横穿，然后返回进入作室门。	Previously, when the Heir-apparent lived in Kuei Palace, Emperor [Yüan] once summoned him [to come] in haste. He went out of the Lung-lou Gate [to his palace], but did not dare to cross the imperial pathway, so went west to the Chih-ch'eng Gate [of the city], where it was permitted to cross [the imperial pathway]. Thereupon he crossed, returned [eastwards], and entered the Artisan's Chamber Gate [of Wei-yang Palace].
上迟之，问其故，以状对。	元帝嫌他来晚了，询问原因，太子把情况如实回答。	The Emperor [said] he was tardy, and asked the reason for it. [The Heir-apparent] replied, [giving] the circumstances.
上大说，乃著令，令太子得绝驰道云。	元帝非常高兴，于是发布命令，允许太子横穿驰道。	and the Emperor was greatly pleased. Thereupon [the Emperor] published an ordinance, ordering that an Heir-apparent should be allowed to cross the imperial pathway.
其后幸酒，乐燕乐，上不以为能。	后来（太子）喜好饮酒，热衷于宴饮作乐，元帝认为他没有才能。	Later, [the Heir-apparent grew] fond of wine and "took pleasure in the delights of conviviality," [so that] Emperor Yüan did not think him capable.
而定陶恭王有材艺，母傅昭仪又爱幸，上以故常有意欲以恭王为嗣。	而定陶恭王有才能技艺，他的母亲傅昭仪又受到宠爱，元帝因此常常有立恭王为继承人的想法。	Moreover [Emperor Yüan's second son], King Kung of Ting-t'ao, [Liu K'ang], showed innate ability and talents; his mother, the Brilliant Companion [née] Fu, was also loved and favored [by the Emperor]; for this reason the Emperor constantly had thoughts of wanting to make King Kung his heir.
赖侍中史丹护太子家，辅助有力，上亦以先帝尤爱太子，故得无废。	依靠侍中史丹保护太子一家，辅助有力，元帝也因为先帝特别喜爱太子，所以太子才没有被废黜。	[But] because of the Palace Attendant Shih Tan, who protected the Heir-apparent's household and effectively aided and assisted [the Heir-apparent], and because, moreover, the deceased Emperor [Hsüan] had especially loved the Heir-apparent, Emperor [Yüan] permitted him not to be dismissed.
竟宁元年五月，元帝崩。	竟宁元年五月，元帝去世。	In [the period] Ching-ning, the first year, the fifth month, Emperor Yüan died.
六月已未，太子即皇帝位，谒高庙。	六月己未日，太子登上皇帝位，拜谒高祖庙。	and in the sixth month, on [the day] chi-wei, the Heir-apparent ascended the imperial throne, presented himself in the Temple of [Emperor] Kao.
尊皇太后曰太皇太后，皇后曰皇太后。	尊奉皇太后为太皇太后，皇后为皇太后。	honored the [Ch'iung-ch'eng] Empress Dowager [née] Wang, entitling her the Grand Empress Dowager, [honored] the Empress [née] Wang, entitling her the Empress Dowager.
以元舅侍中卫尉阳平侯王凤为大司马大将军，领尚书事。	任命大舅侍中卫尉阳平侯王凤为大司马大将军，兼管尚书事务。	and made his eldest maternal uncle, the Palace Attendant and Commandant of the Palace Guard, the Marquis of Yang-p'ing, Wang Feng, Commander-in-chief and General-in-chief, and Intendant of Affairs of the Masters of Writing.
乙未，有司言：“乘舆车、牛、马、禽兽皆非礼，不宜以葬。”奏可。	乙未日，有关官员上奏说：“皇帝的车马、牛马、禽兽都不符合礼制，不应该用来殉葬。”奏章被批准。	On [the day] yi-wei, a high official said that [to bury with the deceased Emperor his] imperial chariot, his carriages, oxen, horses, birds, and beasts was contrary to the [ancient] rites, so that it was improper to bury them [with the Emperor]. The memorial was approved.
七月，大赦天下。	七月，大赦天下。	In the seventh month, a general amnesty [was granted to] the empire.
建始元年春正月乙丑，皇曾祖悼考庙灾。	建始元年春正月乙丑日，皇曾祖悼考庙发生火灾。	In [the period] Chien-shih, the first year, in the spring, the first month, on [the first day], yi-ch'ou, there was a visitation [of fire] in the temple of the [Emperor's] imperial great-grandfather, the Deceased [Imperial] Father Tao, [Liu Chin].
立故河间王弟上郡库令良为王。	立已故河间王的弟弟上郡库令刘良为河间王。	The Chief of the Arsenal in Shang Commandery, [Liu] Liang, the younger brother of the former King of Ho-chien, [Liu Yüan], was set up as King [of Ho-chien].
有星勃于营室。	有彗星出现在营室星区。	A comet appeared in [the constellation] Ying-shih.
罢上林诏狱。	撤销上林诏狱。	The Imperial Prison in Shang-lin [Park] was abolished.
二月，右将军长史姚尹等使匈奴还，去塞百余里，暴风火发，烧杀尹等七人。	二月，右将军长史姚尹等人出使匈奴返回，距离边塞一百多里时，暴风引发火灾，烧死姚尹等七人。	In the second month, Yao Yin, a Chief Clerk of the General of the Right, [Wang Shang], who had been sent [as an envoy] to the Huns, and others —when they were on their way back and were a hundred-odd li from the Barrier—a fire which sprang up [in the grass] in a violent wind burnt to death [Yao] Yin and the others, seven persons [in all].
赏赐诸侯王、丞相、将军、列侯、王太后、公主、王主、吏二千石黄金，宗室子有属籍者、三老、孝弟、力田、鳏、寡、孤、独钱、帛，各有差，吏民五十户牛、酒。	赏赐诸侯王、丞相、将军、列侯、王太后、公主、王主、二千石官吏黄金，宗室中登入名册的成员、三老、孝悌、力田、鳏夫、寡妇、孤儿、无子者钱财、丝帛，各有等级差别，赏赐官吏和百姓每五十户牛、酒。	[The Emperor] granted to the vassal kings, the Lieutenant Chancellor [K'uang Heng], the generals, the marquises, the Queens Dowager, the Imperial Princesses, the Royal Princesses, and the officials [ranking at] two thousand piculs, actual gold; to [members of] the imperial house who were in the various offices, and officials [ranking at] a thousand piculs, down to those [ranking at] two hundred piculs, together with members of the imperial house who were enregistered, the Thrice Venerable, the Filially Pious, the Fraternally Respectful, the [Diligent] Cultivators of the Fields, widowers, widows, orphans, and childless, cash and silk, to each proportionately; and to the officials and common people of fifty households, an ox and wine.
诏曰：“乃者火灾降于祖庙，有星孛于东方，始正而亏，咎孰大焉！	下诏说：“此前火灾降落在祖庙，彗星出现在东方，刚登基就出现过失，罪过多么大啊！	An imperial edict said, "Recently a visitation of fire descended upon an [imperial] ancestral temple and a comet appeared in the eastern quarter [of the heavens]—the rectification [of Our government] at its inception has [shown some] defect. What calamity [could be] greater!
《书》云：‘惟先假王正厥事。’群公孜孜，帅先百寮，辅朕不逮。	《尚书》说：‘古代的贤王遇到灾异就纠正自己的行事。’各位公卿要勤勉努力，带头引导百官，辅助我做得不足之处。	The Book of History says, `Verily, [when a portent occurred], the greatest kings of former [times] rectified their work.' The highest ministers should be very diligent, should lead and act as examples to the many officials, and should support Us in Our inadequacies.
崇宽大，长和睦，凡事恕己，毋行苛刻。	推崇宽大，促进和睦，凡事要以己度人，不要施行苛刻。	exalting clemency and generosity, and making harmony and concord grow. In all these things they should `treat others as themselves' and not be exacting and oppressive.
其大赦天下，使得自新。”	现大赦天下，让人们能够改过自新。”	Let a general amnesty [be granted] to the empire, so that [everyone] may secure [an opportunity] to renew himself."
封舅诸吏光禄大夫关内侯王崇为安成侯。赐舅王谭、商、立、根、逢时爵关内侯。	封舅舅诸吏光禄大夫关内侯王崇为安成侯。赏赐舅舅王谭、王商、王立、王根、王逢时关内侯的爵位。	[The Emperor] enfeoffed his maternal uncle, the Inspector of Officials and Imperial Household Grandee, the Kuan-nei Marquis, Wang Ch'ung, as Marquis of An-ch'eng and granted to [the Emperor's] maternal uncles, Wang T'an, [Wang] Shang, [Wang] Li, [Wang] Keng, and [Wang] Feng-shih, the noble rank of Kuan-nei Marquis.
夏四月，黄雾四塞，博问公卿大夫，无有所讳。	夏四月，黄雾弥漫四方，广泛询问公卿大夫，（让他们）不要有所避讳。	In the summer, the fourth month, a yellow fog completely filled the four [quarters. The Emperor] asked the ministers and grandees widely [for an explanation, telling them] not to keep silent about anything.
六月，有青蝇无万数集未央宫殿中朝者坐。	六月，有数以万计的青蝇聚集在未央宫宫殿中朝臣的座位上。	In the sixth month, there were innumerable ten-thousands of blue flies, which collected on the places [for standing] at the court receptions in the Hall of Wei-yang Palace.
秋，罢上林宫、馆希御幸者二十五所。	秋季，撤销上林宫中、馆中皇帝很少驾临的二十五处。	In the autumn, twenty-five palaces and lodges in Shang-lin [Park] that were rarely visited by the Emperor were abolished.
八月，有两月相承，晨见东方。	八月，有两个月亮上下相接，早晨出现在东方。	In the eighth month there were two moons, one above the other, that appeared at dawn in the eastern quarter.
九月戊子，流星光烛地，长四五丈，委曲蛇形，贯紫宫。	九月戊子日，流星光芒照亮大地，长四五丈，像蛇一样弯曲，穿过紫宫星区。	and in the ninth month, on [the day] mou-tzu, there was a shooting star whose light lighted up the earth. It was forty or fifty feet (degrees) long, curved and sinuous in the form of a snake, and traversed [the constellation] Tzu-kung.
十二月，作长安南北郊，罢甘泉、汾阴祠。	十二月，在长安南北修建郊祀之处，撤销甘泉、汾阴的祭祀。	In the twelfth month, [places] for the suburban sacrifices [to Heaven and Earth and their rulers] were made to the south and north of Ch'ang-an, [respectively], and the sacrifices [to these deities] at Kan-ch'üan [Palace] and at Fen-yin, [respectively], were abolished.
是日大风，拔甘泉畤中大木十韦以上。	这天刮起大风，拔起甘泉畤中十围以上的大树。	On that day a great wind uprooted large trees that were more than ten spans [in circumference] at the place for sacrifice in Kan-ch'üan [Palace].
郡国被灾什四以上，毋收田租。	郡国受灾达到十分之四以上的，不征收田租。	The commanderies and kingdoms more than four-tenths [of whose fields] had suffered calamitous visitations were [ordered] not to pay the land tax on cultivated fields.
二年春正月，罢雍五畤。	建始二年春正月，撤销雍地的五畤。	In the second year, in the spring, the first month, the altars to the Five [Lords on High] at Yung were abolished.
辛已，上始郊祀长安南郊。	辛巳日，成帝开始在长安南郊举行郊祀。	and on [the day] hsin-szu, the Emperor first performed the suburban sacrifice at the place for the suburban sacrifice south of Ch'ang-an.
诏曰：“乃者徙泰畤、后士于南郊、北郊，朕亲饬躬，郊祀上帝。	下诏说：“此前把泰畤、后土迁移到南郊、北郊，我亲自恭谨地在南郊祭祀上帝。	His imperial edict said, "Recently [We] have moved the altar of the Supreme [One and that of] Sovereign Earth to the place for the suburban sacrifice south [of Chang-an] and the place for the suburban sacrifice north [of Chang-an, respectively]. When we purified Ourself, and in person made the suburban sacrifice to the Lords on High.
皇天报应，神光并见。	皇天有报应，神光同时出现。	August Heaven responded, and [several] supernatural lights appeared simultaneously.
三辅长无共张徭役之劳，赦奉郊县长安、长陵及中都官耐罪徒。	三辅地区长久没有供给陈设徭役的劳苦，赦免供奉郊祀的县长安、长陵以及中都官中犯剃鬓须之罪的囚徒。	The elders of the three capital commanderies are not [now] put to the trouble of supplying tents and forced service, [hence We merely grant] an amnesty to the criminals who have been sentenced to shave their whiskers, in the prefectures which support the suburban sacrifices, [namely] Ch'ang-an and Ch'ang-ling, together with [such criminals] in the offices at the imperial capital.
减天下赋钱，算四十。”	减少天下的赋税钱，每人减少四十钱。”	[We] reduce the capitation taxes and poll-tax money by forty cash."
闰月，以渭城延陵亭部为初陵。	闰月，把渭城延陵亭部作为初陵。	In the intercalary [first] month, at the Yen-ling Commune section of Wei-ch'eng [prefecture], the Emperor's tomb was made.
二月，诏三辅内郡举贤良方正各一人。	二月，诏令三辅地区和内地各郡举荐贤良方正各一人。	In the second month, an imperial edict [ordered] the three capital [commanderies] and the inner commanderies each to recommend one person who was capable and good, sincere and upright.
三月，北宫井水溢出。	三月，北宫的井水溢出。	In the third month the water of a well in the Northern Palace overflowed and ran out.
辛丑，上始祠后土于北郊。	辛丑日，成帝开始在北郊祭祀后土。	On [the day] hsin-ch'ou, the Emperor first sacrificed to Sovereign Earth at the place for the Suburban Sacrifice north [of Ch'ang-an].
丙午，立皇后许氏。	丙午日，立许氏为皇后。	On [the day] ping-wu, [the Emperor] established the Empress née Hsü [as Empress].
罢六厩、技巧官。	撤销六厩、技巧官。	[The Emperor] abolished the offices of the Six Stables and the Clever Workmen.
夏，大旱。	夏季，发生大旱灾。	In the summer there was a great drought.
东平王宇有罪，削樊、亢父县。	东平王刘宇有罪，削夺他的樊县、亢父县封地。	[Because] the King of Tung-p'ing, [Liu] Yü, had committed crimes, the prefectures of Fan and K'ang-fu were cut off from [his kingdom].
秋，罢太子博望苑，以赐宗室朝请者。减乘舆厩马。	秋季，撤销太子的博望苑，把它赐给来京朝见的宗室。减少皇帝乘舆的厩马。	In the autumn, the Park of Wide Vision was abolished [from the appurtenances of] the Heir-apparent, and it was granted to the members of the imperial house who came to pay their court visits in the spring and autumn. The [imperial] chariots and horses of the stable were reduced.
三年春三月，赦天下徒。赐孝弟、力田爵二级。诸逋租赋所振贷勿收。	建始三年春三月，赦免天下的囚徒。赏赐孝悌、力田的人二级爵位。各种拖欠的租赋和所赈济借贷的款项不再收取。	In the third year, in the spring, the third month, the criminals of the empire were [granted] an amnesty, and two steps in noble rank were granted to the Filially Pious, the Fraternally Respectful, and the [Diligent] Cultivators of the Fields. Defaulted land and capitation taxes, and what had been given in aid as loans were not to be collected.
秋，关内大水。	秋季，关内发生大水灾。	In the autumn, within the [Han-ku] Pass [region] there was a flood.
七月，虒上小女陈持弓闻大水至，走入横城门，阑入尚方掖门，至未央宫钩盾中。吏民惊上城。	七月，虒上的小女孩陈持弓听说大水到来，跑进横城门，擅自进入尚方掖门，来到未央宫钩盾官署中。官吏百姓惊慌地上了城墙。	In the seventh month, a little girl of Szu-shang, Ch'en Ch'ih-kung, who heard that the high water was coming, ran and entered the Kuang city-gate, entered without authorization through the side gate of the Master of the Recipes, and reached [the area of] Wei-yang Palace [under the control of] the Intendant of the [Imperial] Palace Parks, [because] the officials and common people had been frightened and had gone up onto the city wall.
九月，诏曰：“乃者郡国被水灾，流杀人民，多至千数。	九月，下诏说：“此前郡国遭受水灾，冲走和淹死百姓，多到上千人。	In the ninth month, an imperial edict said, "Recently the commanderies and kingdoms have suffered from a visitation of water, which carried away and killed a large [number of] people, reaching to thousands in number.
京师无故讹言大水至，吏民惊恐，奔走乘城。	京城无缘无故地谣言说大水将至，官吏百姓惊恐，奔跑着登上城墙。	In the imperial capital it was causelessly and falsely rumored that a flood was coming, and the officials and common people were terrified, fled, ran, and mounted the city wall.
殆苛暴深刻之吏未息，元元冤失职者众。遣谏大夫林等循行天下。”	大概是苛刻残暴的官吏没有绝迹，百姓受冤失去常业的人很多。派遣谏大夫林等人巡视天下。”	[This has] perhaps [happened because] vexations, tyrannous, and severely oppressive officials have not yet been suppressed and many of the great multitude have reason for complaint because they have lost their occupations. [We] send the Grandee-remonstrant Lin and others to travel about and inspect the empire."
冬十二月戊申朔，日有蚀之。夜，地震未央宫殿中。	冬十二月戊申日初一，发生日食。夜里，未央宫宫殿中发生地震。	In the winter, the twelfth month, on [the day] mou-shen, the first day of the month, there was an eclipse of the sun and in the night there was an earthquake in the Hall of Wei-yang Palace.
诏曰：“盖闻天生众民，不能相治，为之立君以统理之。	下诏说：“听说上天生育众多百姓，不能互相治理，为他们设立君主来统辖治理他们。	The imperial edict said, "Verily, [We] have heard that when Heaven gave birth to the multitude of common people, they were unable to rule themselves, [hence Heaven] set up princes for them, in order to rule and control them.
君道得，则草木、昆虫咸得其所；人君不德，谪见天地，灾异娄发，以告不治。	君主的治国之道得当，那么草木、昆虫都能各得其所；君主没有德行，天地就会显现谴责的迹象，灾异多次发生，来告诫治国不当。	When the way of a [true] prince is attained, then [even] herbs, trees, and insects find their [proper] places. [But] when the prince of men is not virtuous, a reproach appears in Heaven or Earth, and visitations and prodigies happen frequently, in order to inform him that he is not governing rightly.
朕涉道日寡，举错不中，乃戊申日蚀、地震，朕甚惧焉。	我接触治国之道的时间很短，举措不当，于是戊申日发生日食、地震，我非常恐惧。	"Our experience in governing has been [only] for a brief time, so that [We] have not been correct in [Our] acts, hence on [the day] mou-shen there was an eclipse of the sun and an earthquake. We are greatly dismayed.
公卿其各思朕过失，明白陈之。‘女无面从，退有后言。’	公卿们各自思考我的过失，清楚地陈述出来。‘你们不要当面顺从，退下后又有别的议论。’	Let the ministers each think over Our faults and mistakes and state them [to Us] clearly. `You should not assent to [Our] face, and, after you have retired, make other [sorts of] remarks.'
丞相、御史与将军、列侯、中二千石及内郡国举贤良方正能直言极谏之士，诣公车，朕将览焉。”	丞相、御史和将军、列侯、中二千石官员以及内地郡国举荐贤良方正能直言极谏的人，前往公车官署，我将亲自阅览他们的奏书。”	[Let] the Lieutenant Chancellor, [K'uang Heng], and the [Grandee] Secretary, [Yin Chung], with the generals, full marquises, and [officials ranking at] fully two thousand piculs, together with the inner commanderies and kingdoms, recommend gentlemen who are capable and good, sincere and upright, and able to speak frankly and admonish unflinchingly. [Let] them go to the [Majors in Charge of] the Official Carriages, and We will interview them."
越巂山崩。	越巂郡发生山崩。	In Yüeh-sui [Commandery], a mountain collapsed.
四年春，罢中书宦官，初置尚书员五人。	建始四年春季，撤销中书宦官，开始设置尚书官员五人。	In the fourth year, in the spring, the office of the eunuch Palace Writers was abolished and for the first time five Masters of Writing were established.
夏四月，雨雪。	夏季四月，下雪。	In the summer, the fourth month, there was a fall of snow.
五月，中谒者丞陈临杀司隶校尉辕丰于殿中。	五月，中谒者丞陈临在宫殿中杀死司隶校尉辕丰。	In the fifth month, an Assistant Palace Internuncio, Ch'en Lin, killed the Colonel Director of the Retainers, Yüan Feng, in the [Palace] Hall.
秋，桃、李实。大水，河决东郡金堤。	秋季，桃树、李树结果。发生大水灾，黄河在东郡金堤决口。	In the autumn, peach and plum [trees bore fruit and there was a flood. The [Yellow] River broke through the Chin Dike in Tung Commandery.
冬十月，御史大夫尹忠以河决不忧职，自杀。	冬十月，御史大夫尹忠因为黄河决口而不忧虑职责，自杀。	In the winter, the tenth month, the Grandee Secretary, Yin Chung, committed suicide because he had not been careful in his duties and [as a consequence] the [Yellow] River had broken through its dikes.
河平元年春三月，诏曰：“河决东郡，流漂二州，校尉王延世堤塞辄平，其改元为河平。赐天下吏民爵，各有差。”	河平元年春三月，下诏说：“黄河在东郡决口，淹没漂流兖、豫二州，校尉王延世筑堤堵塞很快平定了水患，现改年号为河平。赏赐天下官吏百姓爵位，各有等级差别。”	In [the period] Ho-p'ing, the first year, in the spring, the third month, an imperial edict said, "The [Yellow] River broke through its dikes in Tung Commandery and submerged the two provinces [of Yen and Yü]. The Chief Commandant, Wang Yen-shih, diked and stopped the gap and immediately there was calm. Let the year-period be changed to be Ho-p'ing, and let noble ranks be granted to the officials and common people of the empire, to each proportionately."
夏四月己亥晦，日有蚀之，既。	夏季四月己亥日月末，发生日食，是全食。	In the summer, the fourth month, on [the day] chi-hai, the last day of the month, there was an eclipse of the sun, and it was total.
诏曰：“朕获保宗庙，战战栗栗，未能奉称。	下诏说：“我得以保有宗庙，惶恐不安，没能称职。	The imperial edict said, "[Ever since] We have secured [the opportunity of] protecting the [imperial] ancestral temples, [We] have trembled with respectful fear, [yet] have not yet been able to be worthy of [Our] title.
传曰：‘男教不修，阳事不得，则日为之蚀。’天著厥异，辜在朕躬。	经传上说：‘男子的教化不整饬，阳刚之事不得当，那么太阳就会发生日食。’上天显示这种异常现象，罪过在我自身。	A book says, `If the instructions for males are not followed, since matters concerning the yang [or male principle] are not attained, then there will on this account be an eclipse of the sun and Heaven will manifest this [sort of] a prodigy.' The blame [for this eclipse therefore] lies upon Us Ourself.
公卿大夫其勉，悉心以辅不逮。百寮各修其职，惇任仁人，退远残贼。	公卿大夫要努力，尽心辅助我的不足。百官各自整饬自己的职责，厚待任用仁人，斥退疏远残暴之人。	Let the ministers and grandees exert themselves and do their best to assist [Our] inadequacies, and [let] each of the many officials perfect themselves in their duties. "[Let] rich employment be given to benevolent persons and [let] cruel and injurious persons be dismissed and sent away.
陈朕过失，无有所讳。”大赦天下。	陈述我的过失，不要有所避讳。”大赦天下。	[Let] Our faults and errors be pointed out without keeping silent about anything. [Let] a general amnesty [be granted] to the empire."
六月，罢典属国并大鸿胪。	六月，撤销典属国，将其职责并入大鸿胪。	In the sixth month, [the office of] Director of Dependent States was abolished and [his duties] were given to the Grand Herald.
秋九月，复太上皇寝庙园。	秋季九月，恢复太上皇的寝庙陵园。	In the autumn, the ninth month, the Funerary Chamber, Temple, and Funerary Park of the Grand Emperor were reestablished.
二年春正月，沛郡铁官治铁飞，语在《五行志》。	河平二年春正月，沛郡铁官冶铁时铁飞散，这件事记载在《五行志》中。	In the second year, in the spring, the first month, in the office for iron in P'ei Commandery, iron that was being cast flew up. A discussion is in the "Treatise on the Five Elements."
夏六月，封舅谭、商、立、根、逢时皆为列侯。	夏季六月，封舅舅王谭、王商、王立、王根、王逢时都为列侯。	In the summer, the sixth month, [the Emperor] enfeoffed his maternal uncles, [Wang] T'an, [Wang] Shang, [Wang] Li, [Wang] Ken, and [Wang] Feng-shih, all as full marquises.
三年春二月丙戌，犍为地震、山崩、雍江水，水逆流。	河平三年春二月丙戌日，犍为郡发生地震、山崩，堵塞江水，江水倒流。	In the third year, in the spring, the second month, on [the day] ping-hsü, in Chien-wei [Commandery] there was an earthquake, and a mountain avalanche blocked the water of the [Min] River, so that the water flowed backwards.
秋八月乙卯晦，日有蚀之。	秋季八月乙卯日月末，发生日食。	In the autumn, the eighth month, on [the day] yi-mao, the last day of the month, there was an eclipse of the sun.
光禄大夫刘向校中秘书。谒者陈农使，使求遗书于天下。	光禄大夫刘向校勘宫中秘籍。谒者陈农被派遣出使，让他在天下寻求散失的书籍。	The Imperial Household Grandee Liu Hsiang was collating [the books] in the Palace Private Library, and the Internuncio Ch'en Nung was sent as a Messenger to seek in the empire for lost books.
四年春正月，匈奴单于来朝。	河平四年春正月，匈奴单于前来朝见。	In the fourth year, in the spring, the first month, the Hun Shan-yü [Fu-chu-lei-jo-ti] came to pay court.
赦天下徒，赐孝弟、力田爵二级，诸逋租赋所振贷勿收。	赦免天下的囚徒，赏赐孝悌、力田的人二级爵位，各种拖欠的租赋和所赈济借贷的款项不再收取。	An amnesty [was granted] to the criminals of the empire, and there were granted to the Filially Pious, the Fraternally Respectful, and the [Diligent] Cultivators of the Fields two steps in noble rank. Defaulted land and capitation taxes and what had been given in aid as loans were not to be collected.
二月，单于罢归国。	二月，单于朝拜结束返回自己的国家。	In the second month, the Shan-yü was dismissed and returned to his state.
三月癸丑朔，日有蚀之。	三月癸丑日初一，发生日食。	In the third month, on [the day] kuei-ch'ou, the first day of the month, there was an eclipse of the sun.
遣光禄大夫博士嘉等十一人行举濒河之郡水所毁伤困乏不能自存者，财振贷。	派遣光禄大夫博士嘉等十一人巡视考察黄河岸边的郡中被水毁坏伤害、贫困不能自存的人，根据财力进行赈济借贷。	[The Emperor] sent the Imperial Household Grandee and Erudit, [Meng] Chia, and others, eleven persons [in all], to inspect and report on the commanderies bordering on the [Yellow] River. [The imperial edict said], "Those whose [property] has been demolished or injured by the floods or who are suffering and indigent and [do not have the means] of keeping themselves alive are [to have their needs] investigated and to be assisted by loans.
其为水所流压死，不能自葬，令郡国给槥櫝葬埋。	那些被水冲走、压死，不能自行安葬的，命令郡国供给小棺材安葬。	For those who have been carried away by the water or have been crushed to death and are unable to be buried by their own [relatives, the legates] shall order the commandery or kingdom to supply small coffins and bury them.
已葬者与钱，人二千。避水它郡国，在所冗食之，谨遇以文理，无令失职。	已经安葬的给予钱财，每人二千。为躲避水灾到其他郡国的，在所到之处由官府供给粮食，谨慎地以礼相待，不要让他们失去常业。	To [the relatives of] each of those who were already buried, there are to be given two thousand cash, and for those who have gone to other commanderies and kingdoms to escape the floods, the places in which they are, are to distribute food to them. [The legates] are to treat them carefully, with courtesy and equity, and are not to cause them to lose their occupations.
举惇厚有行、能直言之士。”	举荐敦厚有德行、能直言进谏的人。”	[The legates] are to recommend gentlemen who are true and honest, whose conduct is [correct], and who are able to speak frankly."
壬申，长陵临泾岸崩，雍泾水。	壬申日，长陵靠近泾水的河岸崩塌，堵塞了泾水。	On [the day] jen-shen, in Ch'ang-ling [prefecture], the high bank on the border of the Ching [River] collapsed, blocking the Ching River.
夏六月庚戌，楚王嚣薨。	夏季六月庚戌日，楚王刘嚣去世。	In the summer, the sixth month, on [the day] keng-hsü, the King of Ch'u, [Liu] Ao, died.
山阳火生石中，改元为阳朔。	山阳郡的石头中产生火焰，改年号为阳朔。	In Shan-yang [Commandery], a fire had started among the rocks and [the Emperor] changed [the name of] the year-period to be Yang-so.
阳朔元年春二月丁未晦，日有蚀之。	阳朔元年春二月丁未日是月末，发生日食。	In [the year-period] Yang-so, the first year, in the spring, the second month, on [the day] ting-wei, the last day of the month, there was an eclipse of the sun.
三月，赦天下徒。	三月，赦免天下的囚徒。	and in the third month, an amnesty [was granted] to the criminals of the empire.
冬，京兆尹王章有罪，下狱死。	冬季，京兆尹王章有罪，被关进监狱死去。	In the winter, the Governor of the Capital, Wang Chang, who had committed crimes, was sent to prison and died.
二年春，寒。	阳朔二年春季，寒冷。	In the second year, in the spring, it was cold.
诏曰：“昔在帝尧，立羲、和之官，命以四时之事，令不失其序。	下诏说：“从前帝尧之时，设立羲、和官职，命令他们掌管四季的事务，使（时序）不失去秩序。	An imperial edict said, "Anciently, when Lord Yao set up the offices for the Hsi and the Ho, he commanded them to prevent the four seasons from losing their order, by taking care of the matters [concerning these seasons].
故《书》云‘黎民于蕃时雍’，明以阴阳为本也。	所以《尚书》说‘百姓繁衍，四季和谐’，表明以阴阳为根本。	Hence the Book of History says, `The many people multiplied and the seasons were harmonious', which makes plain that it considers the Yin and Yang as the fundamental [principles of the universe].
今公卿大夫或不信阴阳，薄而小之，所奏请多违时政。	如今公卿大夫有的不相信阴阳，轻视小看它，所上奏请求的事情多违背时令政务。	Now some of the ministers and grandees do not believe in the Yin and Yang, misprize and disdain them, [with the consequence that] much of what they suggest in their memorials is contrary to the [proper] governmental acts for the seasons.
传以不知，周行天下，而欲望阴阳和调，岂不谬哉！其务顺四时月令。”	把无知传布开来，遍及天下，却希望阴阳调和，难道不荒谬吗！一定要顺应四季月令。”	They propagate [this attitude], so that ignorance [of the rules concerning the seasons] prevails all over the empire. Yet they expect that the Yin and Yang will accord and harmonize. Is not this absurd? Let [the officials] take care to accord with the rules for the four seasons and the months."
三月，大赦天下。	三月，大赦天下。	In the third month, a general amnesty [was granted] to the empire.
夏五月，除吏八百石、五百石秩。	夏季五月，废除八百石、五百石的官吏俸禄等级。	In the summer, the fifth month, the ranks [in the bureaucracy] of eight hundred piculs and five hundred piculs were eliminated.
秋，关东大水，流民欲入函谷、天井、壶口、五阮关者，勿苛留。遣谏大夫博士分行视。	秋季，关东发生大水灾，流亡的百姓想要进入函谷关、天井关、壶口关、五阮关的，不要苛刻阻拦。派遣谏大夫博士分别巡视查看。	In the autumn, there was a flood east of [Han-ku] Pass. [An imperial edict ordered that] vagrant people who wished to enter through Han-ku [Pass], T'ien-ching [Pass], Hu Mouth, or Wu-yüan Pass should not be treated harshly or detained. [The Emperor] sent Grandee-remonstrants and Erudits separately to inspect and observe.
八月甲申，定陶王康薨。	八月甲申日，定陶王刘康去世。	In the eighth month, on [the day] chia-shen, the King of Ting-t'ao, [Liu] K'ang, died.
九月，奉使者不称。	九月，奉命出使的人不称职。	In the ninth month, those who had received [the imperial appointment] as messengers [were found] not to be suitable.
诏曰：“古之立太学，将以传先王之业，流化于天下也。	下诏说：“古代设立太学，是用来传布先王的功业，在天下流布教化的。	An imperial edict said, "In ancient times, the purpose of establishing an Imperial University was to propagate the principles of the former kings and to spread their transforming influence over the world.
儒林之官，四海渊原，宜皆明于古今，温故知新，通达国体，故谓之博士。	儒林的官员，是天下的渊源，应该都通晓古今，温故知新，通达国家体制，所以称他们为博士。	The office of the Forest of Literati is the source and spring for [the culture of all within] the four seas, [hence] it is proper that [its occupants] should all understand clearly ancient and present [times], `reviewing what they already know and acquiring new [knowledge],' and being penetratingly understanding about the constitution of the state. Hence they are called Erudits.
否则学者无述焉，为下所轻，非所以尊道德也。	否则学者就没有可传述的（知识），被下属轻视，这不是尊崇道德的做法。	If they are not [thus learned], then those who study with them will not have anything to transmit [to others] and they will be despized by their inferiors, which is not the way to honor morality and virtue.
‘工欲善其事，必先利其器。’丞相、御史其与中二千石、二千石杂举可充博士位者，使卓然可观。”	‘工匠想要做好他的工作，必须先使工具锋利。’丞相、御史和中二千石、二千石官员共同举荐可以担任博士职位的人，使（博士的才能）卓越可观。”	`A workman who wishes to do his work well must first sharpen his tools.' Let the Lieutenant Chancellor, [Chang Yü], and the [Grandee] Secretary, [Wang Yin], together with [the officials ranking at] fully two thousand piculs and at two thousand piculs, recommend from many [sources] those who can fill the post of Erudit in order to bring it about that [the abilities of the Erudits] may be surpassing and they may be looked up to [by all]."
是岁，御史大夫张忠卒。	这一年，御史大夫张忠去世。	In this year the Grandee Secretary, Chang Chung, died.
三年春三月壬戌，陨石东郡，八。	阳朔三年春三月壬戌日，东郡落下八块陨石。	In the third year, in the spring, the second month, on [the day] jen-hsu, eight meteorites fell in Tung Commandery.
夏六月，颍川铁官徒申屠圣等百八十人杀长吏，盗库兵，自称将军，经历九郡。	夏季六月，颍川铁官的刑徒申屠圣等一百八十人杀死长官，盗取武库兵器，自称将军，辗转经过九个郡。	In the summer, the sixth month, a convict [workman] in the office for iron in Ying-ch'uan [Commandery], Shen-t'u Sheng, and others, one hundred eighty persons [in all], killed their Chief Official and took the weapons from the arsenal by force. [Shen-t'u Sheng] called himself a general and overran nine prefectures.
遣丞相长史、御史中丞逐捕，以军兴从事，皆伏辜。	派遣丞相长史、御史中丞追捕，按照军事调发的规定办理，（叛乱者）都伏罪。	[The Emperor] sent a Chief Clerk of the Lieutenant Chancellor and the Palace Assistant Secretary to pursue and arrest them according to [the law] for levying military supplies, and all [the rebels] suffered for their crimes.
秋八月丁已，大司马、大将军王凤薨。	秋季八月丁巳日，大司马、大将军王凤去世。	In the autumn, the eighth month, on [the day] ting-szu, the Commander-in-chief and General-in-chief, Wang Feng, died.
四年春正月，诏曰：“夫《洪范》八政，以食为首，斯诚家给刑错之本也。	阳朔四年春正月，下诏说：“《洪范》中的八项政务，把粮食放在首位，这确实是家庭富足、刑罚废止的根本。	In the fourth year, in the spring, the first month, an imperial edict said, "Verily, the `Great Plan' makes food the first of the eight [concerns of] government. This is truly the fundamental [factor in making every] family self-supporting and in doing away with punishments.
先帝劭农，薄其租税，宠其强力，令与孝弟同科。	先帝鼓励农业，减轻租税，优待努力耕作的人，让他们与孝悌的人同等对待。	[Our] imperial predecessors encouraged agriculturists, lightening their taxes on land and on produce and favoring those who worked diligently [at agriculture]. They ordered that [the Diligent Cultivators of the Fields] should be classed with the Filially Pious and the Fraternally Respectful.
间者，民弥惰怠，乡本者少，趋末者众，将何以矫之？	近来，百姓更加懒惰懈怠，从事农业这个根本的人少，趋向商业这个末业的人多，将用什么来纠正这种情况呢？	"[But] recently the common people have been more and more indolent and few have inclined towards the fundamental [activity (agriculture), whereas] many have been eager [to give themselves up] to unimportant [matters (merchandizing)]. How can [We] correct them?
方东作时，其令二千石勉劝农桑，出入阡陌，致劳来之。	正当春耕生产的时候，命令二千石官员勉励督促农桑，出入田间小路，招致慰劳百姓。	"Just now it is the season for the work of spring. Let is be ordered that [the officials ranking at] two thousand piculs shall encourage agriculture and sericulture and shall [send people to] go into the paths between the fields in order to encourage the [farmers].
《书》不云乎？‘服田力啬，乃亦有秋。’其勖之哉！”	《尚书》不是说吗？‘努力耕田，尽力劳作，于是才有秋天的收获。’要努力啊！”	Does not the Book of History say, `If they labor in the fields, then there will be an [abundant] harvest'? Let [the officials] make strenuous efforts."
二月，赦天下。	二月，大赦天下。	In the second month an amnesty [was granted] to the empire.
秋九月壬申，东平王宇薨。	秋季九月壬申日，东平王刘宇去世。	In the autumn, the ninth month, on [the day] jen-shen, the King of Tung-p'ing, [Liu] Yü, died.
闰月壬戌，御史大夫于永卒。	闰月壬戌日，御史大夫于永去世。	In the intercalary month, on [the day] jen-hsü, the Grandee Secretary, Yü Yung, died.
鸿嘉元年春二月，诏曰：“朕承天地，获保宗庙，明有所蔽，德不能绥，刑罚不中，众冤失职，趋阙告诉者不绝。	鸿嘉元年春二月，下诏说：“我承受天地之命，得以保有宗庙，圣明有所遮蔽，德行不能安定（百姓），刑罚不适当，众人受冤失去常业，奔赴朝廷申诉的人不断。	In [the period] Hung-chia, the first year, in the spring, the second month, an imperial edict said, "We have succeeded [to the care of] Heaven and Earth and have had [the opportunity] to protect the [imperial] ancestral temples, [but Our] insight has in some respects been unclear and [Our] virtue has not been able to bring tranquillity. The punishments have not been appropriate, so that many people have lost their positions through injustice and have [hence] ceaselessly hastened to the [palace] portals to inform and tell [of their wrongs].
是以阴阳错谬，寒暑失序，日月无光，百姓蒙辜，朕甚闵焉。	因此阴阳错乱，寒暑失去秩序，日月没有光辉，百姓遭受罪过，我非常怜悯他们。	Because of this, the Yin and Yang have wandered from their path and are in disorder, so that cold and heat have lost their [proper] succession, the sun and moon have had no brilliance, and people have exposed themselves to criminal punishment. We pity them greatly.
《书》不云乎？‘即我御事，罔克耆寿，咎在厥躬。’	《尚书》不是说吗？‘我的治事大臣中，没有能长寿的，过失在他们自身。’	Does not the Book of History say, `Among my [officials] who are managing affairs, none is capable or aged. The blame lies upon them themselves'?
方春生长时，临遣谏大夫理等举三辅、三河、弘农冤狱。	正当春天生长的时节，亲自派遣谏大夫理等人审理三辅、三河、弘农的冤狱。	"Just now it is spring, the season for birth and growth. [We] have visited the Grandee-remonstrant Li and others and send them to report unjust law-cases in the three capital [commanderies], the three Ho [commanderies], and Hung-nung [Commandery].
公卿大夫、部刺史明申敕守、相，称朕意焉。	公卿大夫、部刺史明确告诫郡守、诸侯相，要符合我的心意。	The ministers, grandees, and Inspectors of Divisions shall inform clearly and warn the Administrators and Chancellors [of commanderies and kingdoms, respectively,] to conform to Our intentions.
其赐天下民爵一级，女子百户牛、酒，加赐鳏、寡、孤、独、高年帛。逋贷未入者勿收。”	赏赐天下百姓爵位一级，女子每百户牛、酒，加赐鳏夫、寡妇、孤儿、无子者、老年人丝帛。拖欠的借贷没有缴纳的不再收取。”	Let there be granted to the common people of the empire one step in noble rank; to the women of a hundred households, an ox and wine; and [let there be] added grants of silk to widowers, widows, orphans, childless, and the aged. Defaulted loans [from the government] and what has not yet been paid shall not be collected."
壬午，行幸初陵，赦作徒。以新丰戏乡为昌陵县，奉初陵，赐百户牛、酒。	壬午日，成帝驾临初陵，赦免在那里劳作的刑徒。把新丰的戏乡改为昌陵县，供奉初陵，赏赐每百户牛、酒。	On [the day] jen-wu, [the Emperor] traveled and favored his imperial tomb [with a visit, where he granted] an amnesty to the convicts working [on the tomb]. Ch'ang-ling Prefecture was made out of the Hsi District of Hsin-feng [Prefecture]. Those who were to support [the sacrifices at] the imperial tomb were granted an ox and wine for [every] hundred households.
上始为微行出。	成帝开始微服出行。	The Emperor for the first time went out to travel incognito.
冬，黄龙见真定。	冬季，黄龙在真定出现。	In the winter, a yellow dragon appeared in [the kingdom of] Chen-ting.
二年春，行幸云阳。	鸿嘉二年春季，成帝驾临云阳。	In the second year, in the spring, [the Emperor] traveled and favored [with a visit] Yün-yang [Prefecture, in which was Kan-ch'üan Palace].
三月，博士行饮酒礼，有雉蜚集于庭，历阶升堂而雊，后集诸府，又集承明殿。	三月，博士举行饮酒礼，有野鸡飞集到庭院中，经过台阶登上殿堂鸣叫，后来又聚集到各官府，还聚集到承明殿。	In the third month, when the Erudits were performing the rites for drinking wine, pheasants flew and perched in the courtyard, came up the steps, mounted to the hall, and crowed. Later they perched in various yamens, and also perched in the Ch'eng-ming Hall.
诏曰：“古之选贤，傅纳以言，明试以功。	下诏说：“古代选拔贤人，采纳他们的言论，通过功绩明确考察他们。	The imperial edict said, "Anciently, when [a ruler] selected capable [officials], he made them express themselves, accepted them `in accordance with their discussions, and tested them clearly by their achievements.'
故官无废事，下无逸民，教化流行，风雨和时，百谷用成，众庶乐业，咸以康宁。	所以官府没有荒废的事务，民间没有隐逸的人才，教化流布，风雨及时，各种谷物成熟，百姓安居乐业，都安康太平。	Hence in the government offices affairs were not neglected and among his subordinates there were no negligent people. [Consequently, the ruler's] instruction and civilizing influence spread abroad and was carried out, the winds and rain were harmonious and timely, the various grains therefore ripened, the multitude of commoners rejoiced in their occupations, and all were as a result prosperous and tranquil.
朕承鸿业十有余年，数遭水、旱、疾疫之灾，黎民娄困于饥寒，而望礼义之兴，岂不难哉！	我继承大业十多年，多次遭受水、旱、疫病灾害，百姓屡次困于饥寒，却希望礼义兴起，难道不是很困难吗！	"We have succeeded to [this] great estate for more than ten years, yet have several times met with visitations of flood, drought, sicknesses, and epidemics, so that the many common people have frequently suffered from hunger and cold, [and, as a result, although We] hoped that the rules of proper conduct and moral principles would flourish, how could it not but have been difficult [to achieve anything]?
朕既无以率道，帝王之道日以陵夷，意乃招贤选士之路郁滞而不通与，将举者未得其人也？	我既然没有办法引导（百姓），帝王之道日益衰落，想来是招贤选士的道路阻塞不通，还是举荐的人没有得到合适的人选呢？	Since We have not had any means of leading and guiding [the people], the way of [the sage] lords and [true] kings has been daily falling into decadence. Is it that the road for inviting and selecting capable gentlemen has been blocked and is not open, or is it that those who recommend [persons for official examination] have not yet found the [right] persons?
其举敦厚有行义、能直言者，冀闻切言嘉谋，匡朕之不逮。”	举荐敦厚有德行、能直言进谏的人，希望听到恳切的言论和美好的谋略，匡正我的不足。”	Let there be recommended persons who are true and honest, whose conduct [is according to] moral principles, and who are able to speak frankly, [so that We may] hope to hear earnest speech and excellent deliberation in order to correct Our inadequacies."
夏，徒郡国豪杰赀五百万以上五千户于昌陵。赐丞相、御史、将军、列侯、公主、中二千石冢地、第宅。	夏季，迁移郡国豪杰中资产五百万以上的五千户到昌陵。赏赐丞相、御史、将军、列侯、公主、中二千石官员墓地、宅第。	In the summer, braves and stalwarts from the commanderies and kingdoms whose property was five million [cash] or more, [to the number of] five thousand households, were moved to Ch'ang-ling [Prefecture]. There were granted to the Lieutenant Chancellor, [Hsieh Hsüan], the [Grandee] Secretary, [Wang Chün], the generals, the full marquises, the princesses, and [officials ranking at] fully two thousand piculs, places for tombs and residences [at Ch'ang-ling].
六月，立中山宪王孙云客为广德王。	六月，立中山宪王的孙子刘云客为广德王。	In the sixth month, [the Emperor] set up [Liu] Yün-k'o, a grandson [of a younger brother] of King Hsien of Chung-shan, [Liu Fu], as King of Kuang-tê.
三年夏四月，赦天下。令吏民得买爵，贾级千钱。	鸿嘉三年夏四月，大赦天下。命令官吏百姓可以买爵，每级价格一千钱。	In the third year, in the summer, the fourth month, an amnesty [was granted] to the empire and it was ordered that officials and common people were to be allowed to purchase noble ranks at the price of a thousand cash per step.
大旱。	发生大旱灾。	There was a great drought.
秋八月乙卯，孝景庙阙灾。	秋季八月乙卯日，孝景帝庙的门阙发生火灾。	In the autumn, the eighth month, on [the day] yi-mao, there was a visitation [of fire] to the [Northern] Portal of the Temple to [Emperor] Hsiao-ching.
冬十一月甲寅，皇后许氏废。	冬季十一月甲寅日，皇后许氏被废黜。	and in the winter, the eleventh month, on [the day] chia-yin, the Empress née Hsü was dismissed.
广汉男子郑躬等六十余人攻官寺，篡囚徒，盗库兵，自称山君。	广汉郡男子郑躬等六十多人攻打官府，劫夺囚徒，盗取武库兵器，自称山君。	Cheng Kung, a man of Kuang-han [Commandery], and others, more than sixty persons in all, attacked the government offices and buildings, taking by force the prisoners and convicts and robbing arms from the arsenal. He called himself the Lord of the Mountains.
四年春正月，诏曰：“数敕有司，务行宽大，而禁苛暴，讫今不改。	鸿嘉四年春正月，下诏说：“多次告诫有关部门，务必实行宽大政策，禁止苛刻残暴，到现在仍不改正。	In the fourth year, in the spring, the first month, an imperial edict said, "[We] have several times issued a decree to the high officials that they should take care to be liberal and large-minded in their actions and should prohibit tyranny and oppression, [but] down to the present [their behavior] has not changed.
一人有辜，举宗拘系，农民失业，怨恨者众，伤害和气，水旱为灾，关东流冗者众，青、幽、冀部尤剧，朕甚痛焉。	一人有罪，整个宗族被拘捕，农民失去本业，怨恨的人很多，伤害了和谐之气，导致水旱灾害，关东流亡的人很多，青州、幽州、冀州地区尤其严重，我非常痛心。	If one person commits a crime, they recommend that his clan should be arrested and imprisoned. The farmers and common people who have lost their occupations and who cherish grudges and hatred [against the government] are many, which injures and damages the harmonious emanation, so that water and drought have produced visitations. East of [Han-ku] Pass, vagrants and roving [people] are many, and in the Ch'ing, Yu, and Chi [Provincial] sections [the situation] is especially serious, so that We are greatly pained.
未闻在位有恻然者，孰当助朕忧之！	没有听说在位的官员有怜悯的，谁该帮助我担忧这些呢！	[We] have not heard that any one in [high] positions is saddened. Who, [then], is capable of assisting Us by being solicitous in this [situation]?
已遣使者循行郡国。被灾害什四以上，民赀不满三万，勿出租赋。	已经派遣使者巡视郡国。遭受灾害达到十分之四以上的，百姓资产不满三万的，不要征收租赋。	"[We] have already sent messengers to travel about and inspect the commanderies and kingdoms. In [those commanderies and kingdoms] that have been injured by the visitations and disasters [to the extent of] four-tenths [of their normal produce] or more, the common people whose property is not as much as thirty thousand [cash] shall not [be required] to pay the land-tax or capitation taxes.
逋贷未入，皆勿收。流民欲入关，辄籍内。所之郡国，谨遇以理，务有以全活之。思称朕意。”	拖欠的借贷没有缴纳的，都不再收取。流亡的百姓想要入关的，立即登记接纳。所到的郡国，要谨慎地以礼相待，务必使他们能够保全性命。希望符合我的心意。”	Defaulted loans and what has not yet been paid shall all not be collected. Those wandering people who wish to enter through the passes shall be enregistered and admitted whenever [they arrive]. Those who [wish to] go to [other] commanderies or kingdoms shall be treated respectfully and with equity. [Let the officials] take care that they have the desire to preserve and keep alive [the refugees], in order that they may accord with Our intentions."
秋，勃海、清河河溢，被灾者振贷之。	秋季，勃海郡、清河郡黄河泛滥，对受灾的人进行赈济借贷。	In the autumn, in P'o-hai and Ch'ing-ho [Commanderies, the Yellow] River overflowed. Those who suffered from the visitation were assisted by loans.
冬，广汉郑躬等党与浸广，犯历四县，众且万人。	冬季，广汉郡郑躬等人的党羽逐渐扩大，侵犯经历四个县，部众将近一万人。	In the winter, in Kuang-han [Commandery], Cheng Kung and others [formed] a faction which gradually spread, invading and passing through four prefectures. His horde [numbered] almost ten thousand persons.
拜河东都尉赵护为广汉太守，发郡中及蜀郡合三万人击之。	任命河东都尉赵护为广汉太守，征调郡中以及蜀郡的兵丁共三万人攻打他们。	[The Emperor] installed the Chief Commandant of Ho-tung [Commandery], Chao Hu, as the Grand Administrator of Kuang-han [Commandery] and mobilized [the people] in that commandery together with [those in] Shu Commandery, altogether thirty thousand men, to attack [the rebels].
或相捕斩，除罪。旬月平，迁护为执金吾，赐黄金百斤。	有人互相捕捉斩杀（叛军），免除罪名。一个月内平定叛乱，提升赵护为执金吾，赏赐黄金一百斤。	Some [of the rebels] seized and beheaded other [rebels], in order to expunge [their own] crimes, and in ten months [the region] was pacified. [The Emperor later] promoted [Chao] Hu to be Chief of Palace Police in the Capital and granted him a hundred catties of actual gold.
永始元年春正月癸丑，太官凌室火。戊午，戾后园阙火。	永始元年春正月癸丑日，太官的凌室发生火灾。戊午日，戾后园的门阙发生火灾。	In [the period] Yung-shih, the first year, in the spring, the first month, on [the day] kuei-ch'ou, there was a fire in the Ice Chamber of the Grand Provisioner, on [the day] mou-wu there was a fire in [the Southern] Portal of the Funerary Park of Queen Li.
夏四月，封婕妤赵氏父临为成阳侯。	夏季四月，封婕妤赵氏的父亲赵临为成阳侯。	and in the summer, the fourth month, [the Emperor] enfeoffed [Chao] Lin, the father of the Favorite Beauty née Chao, [Chao Fei-yen], as Marquis of Ch'eng-yang.
五月，封舅曼子侍中骑都尉光禄大夫王莽为新都侯。	五月，封舅舅王曼的儿子侍中骑都尉光禄大夫王莽为新都侯。	In the fifth month, [the Emperor] enfeoffed, as Marquis of Hsin-tu, the Palace Attendant, Chief Commandant of Cavalry, and Imperial Household Grandee, Wang Mang, who was the son of [the Emperor's] maternal uncle, [Wang] Wan.
六月丙寅，立皇后赵氏。大赦天下。	六月丙寅日，立赵氏为皇后。大赦天下。	In the sixth month, on [the day] ping-yin, [the Emperor] established the Empress née Chao, [Chao Fei-yen, as Empress], and [granted] a general amnesty to the empire.
秋七月，诏曰：“朕执德不固，谋不尽下，过听将作大匠万年言昌陵三年可成。	秋季七月，下诏说：“我持守德行不坚定，谋划不能充分听取臣下意见，错误地听从将作大匠解万年说昌陵三年可以建成。	In the autumn, the seventh month, an imperial edict said, "Our grasp of virtue has not been firm and in [Our] plans [We] have not [consulted] all of [Our] subordinates, [so that We] have erred in listening to the Court Architect, [Chieh] Wan-nien, who said that the Ch'ang Tomb could be completed in the third year.
作治五年，中陵、司马殿门内尚未加功。	修建了五年，中陵、司马殿门内还没有动工。	He has worked [at it] to the fifth year, [but] has not yet set anyone to work inside the Majors' Gates to its Hall in the central part of the Tomb.
天下虚耗，百姓罢劳，客土疏恶，终不可成。	天下财力空虚，百姓疲劳，从外地运来的土壤疏松不好，最终不能建成。	The empire's [treasury] is empty and exhausted and the people are worn out and fatigued. The earth taken from other places [distant from the Tomb] is scanty and bad, so that in the end [the Tomb] cannot be completed.
朕惟其难，怛然伤心。夫‘过而不改，是谓过矣’。	我想到这些困难，悲痛伤心。‘有过错而不改正，这才是过错。’	When We reflect upon these difficulties, [We] are saddened and afflicted at heart. Verily `to err and not to reform may indeed be called error.
其罢昌陵，及故陵勿徒吏民，令天下毋有动摇之心。”	现停止修建昌陵，并且原来的陵墓所在地不要迁移官吏百姓，让天下人不要有动摇的心思。”	Let the Ch'ang Tomb [and the town of Ch'ang-ling] be abolished and [let the imperial tomb] be returned to the former Tomb. Let no officials or common people be moved [to the former Tomb], so that in the empire there may not be caused any disturbance in peoples' hearts."
立城阳孝王子俚为王。	立城阳孝王的儿子刘俚为王。	[The Emperor] set up [Liu] Li, a son of King Hsiao of Ch'eng-yang, [Liu Ching], as King [of Ch'eng-yang].
八月丁丑，太皇太后王氏崩。	八月丁丑日，太皇太后王氏去世。	In the eighth month, on [the day] ting-ch'ou, the [Ch'iung-ch'eng] Grand Empress Dowager née Wang died.
二年春正月己丑，大司马车骑将军王音薨。	永始二年春正月己丑日，大司马车骑将军王音去世。	In the second year, in the spring, the first month, on [the day] chi-ch'ou, the Commander-in-chief and General of Chariots and Cavalry, Wang Yin, died.
二月癸未夜，星陨如雨。乙酉晦，日有蚀之。	二月癸未日夜，流星像雨一样坠落。乙酉日月末，发生日食。	In the second month, on [the day] kuei-wei, at night, stars fell like rain. On [the day] i-yu, the last day of the month, there was an eclipse of the sun.
诏曰：“乃者，龙见于东莱，日有蚀之。天著变异，以显朕邮，朕甚惧焉。	下诏说：“此前，龙出现在东莱郡，发生日食。上天显示异常现象，来彰显我的忧虑，我非常恐惧。	The imperial edict said, "Recently a dragon appeared in Tung-lai and there was an eclipse of the sun. Heaven has displayed a prodigy to make clear Our anxiety, and We are greatly afraid.
公卿申敕百寮，深思天诫，有可省减便安百姓者，条奏。所振贷贫民，勿收。”	公卿告诫百官，深入思考上天的告诫，有可以减省以便利安定百姓的，分条上奏。所赈济借贷给贫民的（财物），不要收回。”	Let the high ministers instruct the many officials to think deeply about Heaven's warning, and if there are any measures which can be abolished or reduced to bring peace and ease to the people, let them present memorials listing them. The loans which have been made to poor people are not to be collected."
又曰：“关东比岁不登，吏民以义收食贫民、入谷物助县官振赡者，已赐直，其百万以上，加赐爵右更，欲为吏，补三百石，其吏也，迁二等。	又说：“关东地区连年歉收，官吏百姓出于道义收养贫民、交纳谷物帮助官府赈济的，已经赏赐了价值，其中达到一百万以上的，加赐爵位右更，想做官的，补任三百石官职，已是官吏的，提升两级。	It also said, "For several years the eastern regions beyond the [Han-ku] Pass have had no good harvests. When officials and common people have righteously received and fed poor people or have contributed grain to assist the government in relieving distress, they have already been given compensation. Those who contributed a million [cash] or more are to be additionally granted the noble rank of Right Alternate. If they wish to be officials, they shall be appointed to posts of three hundred piculs; if they are already officials, they shall be promoted two grades.
三十万以上，赐爵五大夫，吏亦迁二等，民补郎。	三十万以上的，赐爵位五大夫，官吏也提升两级，百姓补任郎官。	Those who contributed three hundred thousand [cash] or more are to be granted the noble rank of Five Excellencies; if they are officials, they shall also be promoted two grades; if they are common people, they shall be appointed to be Gentlemen.
十万以上，家无出租赋三岁。万钱以上，一年。”	十万以上的，家庭免除租赋三年。一万钱以上的，免除一年。”	Those who contributed a hundred thousand [cash] or more shall have their families exempted from land tax and poll tax for three years; those who contributed ten thousand [cash] or more shall be exempted for one year."
冬十一月，行幸雍，祠五畤。	冬季十一月，成帝驾临雍地，祭祀五畤。	In the winter, the eleventh month, [the Emperor] traveled to Yung and sacrificed at the Five Altars.
十二月，诏曰：“前将作大匠万年知昌陵卑下，不可为万岁居，奏请营作，建置郭邑，妄为巧作，积土增高，多赋敛徭役，兴卒暴之作。	十二月，下诏说：“先前将作大匠解万年明知昌陵地势低下，不能作为长久居住的陵墓，却上奏请求营建，修建城郭邑落，随意进行精巧的设计，堆积泥土增高地基，多征收赋税徭役，兴起急促的劳役。	In the twelfth month, an imperial edict said, "Previously, the Court Architect Wan-nien knew that the Chang Tomb was low-lying and unfit to be a permanent residence for the emperor, yet he memorialized requesting its construction, establishing outer city walls and settlements, making reckless and excessive designs, piling up earth to raise the foundation, imposing heavy taxes and forced labor, and initiating hasty construction projects.
卒徒蒙辜，死者连属，百姓罢极，天下匮谒。	服役的刑徒遭受苦难，死亡的人接连不断，百姓疲惫到极点，天下财力匮乏。	The convicts and laborers have suffered injustice, the dead have been numerous, the people are utterly exhausted, and the empire is impoverished.
常侍闳前为大司农中丞，数奏昌陵不可成。	常侍王闳先前担任大司农中丞时，多次上奏说昌陵不可能建成。	The Regular Attendant Hung, when he was previously the Assistant Minister of Agriculture, several times memorialized that the Chang Tomb could not be completed.
侍中卫尉长数白宜早止，徙家反故处。	侍中卫尉淳于长多次进言应该及早停止，迁移住户返回原来的地方。	The Palace Attendant and Commandant of the Imperial Guard Chang several times stated that it was proper to stop the project early and move the families back to their original places.
朕以长言下闳章，公卿议者皆合长计。	我根据淳于长的话下达王闳的奏章，参与商议的公卿都赞同淳于长的计策。	We, upon Chang's words, issued Hung's memorial, and all the high ministers who discussed it agreed with Chang's plan.
长首建至策，闳典主省大费，民以康宁。	淳于长首先提出正确的策略，王闳主管减省大量费用，百姓因此安宁。	Chang was the first to propose this excellent plan, and Hung was in charge of reducing great expenses, so that the people could live in peace and prosperity.
闳前赐爵关内侯，黄金百斤。其赐长爵关内侯，食邑千户，闳五百户。	王闳先前已被赐爵关内侯，黄金一百斤。现赐淳于长爵关内侯，食邑一千户，王闳五百户。	Hung was previously granted the noble rank of Kuan-nei Marquis and a hundred catties of gold. Now, Chang is granted the noble rank of Kuan-nei Marquis with a fief of a thousand households, and Hung with five hundred households.
万年佞邪不忠，毒流众庶，海内怨望，至今不息，虽蒙赦令，不宜居京师。其徙万年敦煌郡。”	解万年奸佞邪恶不忠诚，毒害流传给百姓，天下人怨恨，到现在没有平息，虽然受到赦免的命令，也不适合居住在京城。将解万年迁徙到敦煌郡。”	Wan-nien, being a flatterer, wicked and disloyal, his poison has spread among the common people, and resentment throughout the empire has not ceased to this day. Although he has received a pardon, it is not proper for him to reside in the imperial capital. He is to be exiled to Tun-huang Commandery."
是岁，御史大夫王骏卒。	这一年，御史大夫王骏去世。	In this year, the Grandee Secretary, Wang Chün, died.
三年春正月乙卯晦，日有蚀之。	永始三年春正月乙卯日是月末，发生日食。	In the third year, in the spring, the first month, on [the day] yi-mao, the last day of the month, there was an eclipse of the sun.
诏曰：“天灾仍重，朕甚惧焉。惟民之失职，临遣太中大夫嘉等循行天下，存问耆老，民所疾苦。其与剖刺史举惇朴逊让有行义者各一人。”	下诏说：“天灾接连不断，我非常恐惧。想到百姓失去常业，亲自派遣太中大夫嘉等人巡视天下，慰问老年人，了解百姓的疾苦。可与部刺史举荐敦厚朴实、谦逊退让、有德行道义的各一人。”	The imperial edict said, "Heavenly disasters have been repeated and severe, and We are greatly alarmed. Considering that the people have lost their occupations, We personally dispatch the Grand Chamberlain Chia and others to travel throughout the empire, to visit and inquire after the elderly, and to learn of the people's hardships. They, together with the Regional Inspectors, are to recommend one person each who is honest, simple, modest, yielding, and virtuous."
冬十月庚辰，皇太后诏有司复甘泉泰畤、汾阴后土、雍五畤、陈仓陈宝祠。语在《郊祀志》。	冬季十月庚辰日，皇太后诏令有关部门恢复甘泉泰畤、汾阴后土、雍五畤、陈仓陈宝祠的祭祀。这件事记载在《郊祀志》中。	In the winter, the tenth month, on [the day] keng-ch'en, the Empress Dowager issued an edict ordering the relevant officials to restore the sacrifices at the Tai-chi Altar in Kan-ch'üan, the Hou-t'u Altar in Fen-yin, the Five Altars in Yung, and the Chen-pao Shrine in Chen-c'ang. The details are in the "Treatise on Sacrifices".
十一月，尉氏男子樊并等十三人谋反，杀陈留太守，劫略吏民，自称将军。	十一月，尉氏县男子樊并等十三人谋反，杀死陈留太守，劫掠官吏百姓，自称将军。	In the eleventh month, Fan Ping, a man from Wei-shih, and thirteen others plotted rebellion, killed the Grand Administrator of Ch'en-liu, plundered officials and common people, and called themselves generals.
徒李谭等五人共格杀并等，皆封为列侯。	刑徒李谭等五人共同击杀樊并等人，都被封为列侯。	The convicts Li T'an and four others together attacked and killed Fan Ping and the others, and all were enfeoffed as full marquises.
十二月，山阳铁官徒苏令等二百二十八人攻杀长吏，盗库兵，自称将军，经历郡国十九，杀东郡太守、汝南都尉。	十二月，山阳郡铁官刑徒苏令等二百二十八人攻打杀死长官，盗取武库兵器，自称将军，辗转经过十九个郡国，杀死东郡太守、汝南都尉。	In the twelfth month, Su Ling and two hundred twenty-eight other convicts from the iron office in Shan-yang Commandery attacked and killed their superiors, stole weapons from the arsenal, called themselves generals, passed through nineteen commanderies and kingdoms, and killed the Grand Administrator of Tung Commandery and the Chief Commandant of Ju-nan.
遣丞相长史、御史中丞持节督趣逐捕。汝南太守严訢捕斩令等。訢为大司农，赐黄金百斤。	派遣丞相长史、御史中丞持符节监督催促追捕。汝南太守严訢捕获斩杀苏令等人。严訢被任命为大司农，赏赐黄金一百斤。	The Chief Clerk of the Prime Minister and the Palace Assistant Secretary were dispatched with credentials to supervise and urge the pursuit and arrest. The Grand Administrator of Ju-nan, Yen Hsin, captured and beheaded Su Ling and the others. Hsin was appointed Grand Minister of Agriculture and awarded a hundred catties of gold.
四年春正月，行幸甘泉，郊泰畤，神光降集紫殿。大赦天下。赐云阳吏民爵，女子百户牛、酒、鳏、寡、孤、独、高年帛。	永始四年春正月，成帝驾临甘泉宫，在泰畤举行郊祀，神光降落在紫殿。大赦天下。赏赐云阳县官吏百姓爵位，女子每百户牛、酒，鳏夫、寡妇、孤儿、无子者、老年人丝帛。	In the fourth year, in the spring, the first month, the Emperor traveled to Kan-ch'üan, performed the suburban sacrifice at the Tai-chi Altar, and divine light descended and gathered in the Purple Hall. A general amnesty was granted to the empire. The officials and common people of Yün-yang were awarded noble ranks; for every hundred households of women, oxen and wine were given; and widowers, widows, orphans, childless persons, and the elderly were given silk.
三月，行幸河东，祠后士，赐吏民如云阳，行所过无出田租。	三月，成帝驾临河东郡，祭祀后土，赏赐官吏百姓如同云阳，出行所经过的地方不征收田租。	In the third month, the Emperor traveled to Ho-tung, sacrificed to the Earth Deity, and bestowed gifts on officials and common people as in Yün-yang. The places through which he passed were exempted from land tax.
夏四月癸未，长乐临华殿、未央宫东司马门皆灾。	夏季四月癸未日，长乐宫临华殿、未央宫东司马门都发生火灾。	In the summer, the fourth month, on [the day] kuei-wei, both the Lin-hua Hall of the Ch'ang-lo Palace and the Eastern司马门 of the Wei-yang Palace were struck by fire.
六月甲午，霸陵园门阙灾。出杜陵诸未尝御者归家。	六月甲午日，霸陵园的门阙发生火灾。放出杜陵中那些未曾侍奉过皇帝的宫女，让她们回家。	In the sixth month, on [the day] chia-wu, the gate of the Pa Tomb park was struck by fire. The concubines at Tu Tomb who had never served the emperor were sent home.
诏曰：“乃者，地震京师，火灾娄降，朕甚惧之。有司其悉心明对厥咎，朕将亲览焉。”	下诏说：“先前，京城发生地震，火灾多次降临，我非常恐惧。有关部门要尽心明确地回答这其中的过失，我将亲自阅览。”	An imperial edict said, "Recently, there has been an earthquake in the capital and repeated fires, and We are greatly alarmed. Let the relevant officials carefully and clearly explain the blame for these disasters; We will personally examine their responses."
又曰：“圣王明礼制以序尊卑，异车服以章有德，虽有其财，而无其尊，不得逾制，故民兴行，上义而下利。	又说：“圣明的君王明确礼制来排列尊卑等级，区分车马服饰来彰显有德行的人，即使有财富，但没有相应的尊贵地位，也不能超越制度，所以百姓勉力践行，崇尚道义而轻视利益。	It also said, "Sage kings clarified ritual and propriety to order the noble and the base, and distinguished carriages and clothing to manifest virtue. Even if one has wealth, without the corresponding honor, one must not exceed the regulations. Thus, the people strive to act virtuously, valuing righteousness over profit.
方今世俗奢僭罔极，靡有厌足。公卿列侯亲属近臣，四方所则，未闻修身遵礼，同心忧国者也。	如今世俗的奢侈僭越没有极限，没有满足的时候。公卿列侯、亲属近臣，是天下人效法的榜样，却没有听说他们修养自身、遵循礼制、同心协力为国分忧的。	Nowadays, the common customs of extravagance and usurpation are limitless and insatiable. The high ministers, marquises, relatives, and close attendants, who are models for the four corners of the empire, have not been heard of cultivating themselves, abiding by ritual, or united in their concern for the state.
或乃奢侈逸豫，务广第宅，治园池，多畜奴婢，被服绮縠，设钟鼓，备女乐，车服、嫁娶、葬埋过制。	有的甚至奢侈逸乐，致力于扩大宅第，修建园林池塘，多收养奴婢，穿着绫罗绸缎，设置钟鼓，配备歌女乐师，车马服饰、嫁娶、埋葬都超越制度。	Some even indulge in luxury and ease, striving to expand their mansions, build gardens and ponds, keep many slaves and concubines, wear fine silks and gauzes, set up bells and drums, maintain female musicians, and exceed regulations in carriages, clothing, weddings, and funerals.
吏民慕效，浸以成俗，而欲望百姓俭节，家给人足，岂不难哉！	官吏百姓羡慕效仿，逐渐形成习俗，却希望百姓节俭，家家富足，难道不是很困难吗！	Officials and common people imitate them, and this has gradually become a custom. Yet to hope that the people will be frugal and that every family will have enough is indeed difficult!
《诗》不云乎？‘赫赫师尹，民具尔瞻。’其申敕有司，以渐禁之。	《诗经》不是说吗？‘威严显赫的太师尹，百姓都看着你。’要告诫有关部门，逐步禁止这种风气。	Does not the Book of Odes say, `Majestic is the Grand Master Yin; the people all look up to you'? Let the relevant officials be instructed to gradually prohibit these practices.
青、绿民所常服，且勿止。列侯近臣，各自省改。司隶校尉察不变者。”	青色、绿色是百姓常穿的颜色，暂且不要禁止。列侯近臣，要各自反省改正。司隶校尉监察那些不改正的人。”	Blue and green, which are the usual clothing colors of the people, are not to be prohibited for the time being. Marquises and close attendants should each examine themselves and reform. The Colonel Director of Retainers is to investigate those who do not change."
秋七月辛未晦，日有蚀之。	秋季七月辛未日是月末，发生日食。	In the autumn, the seventh month, on [the day] hsin-wei, the last day of the month, there was an eclipse of the sun.
元延元年春正月己亥朔，日有蚀之。	元延元年春正月己亥日初一，发生日食。	In [the period] Yüan-yen, the first year, in the spring, the first month, on [the day] chi-hai, the first day of the month, there was an eclipse of the sun.
三月，行幸雍，祠五畤。	三月，成帝驾临雍地，祭祀五畤。	In the third month, [the Emperor] traveled and favored Yung [with a visit, where he] sacrificed at the altars to the Five [Lords on High].
夏四月丁酉，无云有雷，声光耀耀，四面下至地，昏止。赦天下。	夏季四月丁酉日，没有云彩却有雷声，光芒闪耀，向四面延伸到地面，到黄昏才停止。大赦天下。	In the summer, the fourth month, on [the first day], ting-yu, when there were no clouds, there was a sound of thunder and light shone out on all sides, descending to the earth. At dusk it stopped. An amnesty [was granted] to the empire.
秋七月，有星孛于东井。	秋季七月，有彗星出现在东井星区。	In the autumn, the seventh month, a comet appeared in [the constellation] Tung-ching.
诏曰：“乃者，日蚀、星陨，谪见于天，大异重仍。在位默然，罕有忠言。	下诏说：“先前，日食、星陨，上天显示谴责的迹象，重大的异常现象接连不断。在位的官员沉默不言，很少有忠直的言论。	The imperial edict said, "Recently there have been eclipses and falling stars, reproaches appearing in heaven. Great prodigies have been repeated, [but] those who are in [official] positions have been silent; rarely have there been loyal utterances.
今孛星见于东井，朕甚惧焉。公卿大夫、博士、议郎其各悉心，惟思变意，明以经对，无有所讳。	如今彗星出现在东井星区，我非常恐惧。公卿大夫、博士、议郎各自要尽心，思考变革的意图，依据经书明确回答，不要有所避讳。	Now a comet has appeared in [the constellation] Tung-ching. We are greatly dismayed. Let the ministers, grandees, erudits, and grandee-consultants each do their best in pondering and thinking upon the meaning of these grievous vicissitudes, and parallel them clearly from the Classics [in explanation], not keeping silent about anything.
与内郡国举方正能直言极谏者各一人，北边二十二郡举勇猛知兵法者各一人。”	和内地郡国各自举荐方正能直言极谏的一人，北部边境二十二郡各自举荐勇猛懂兵法的一人。”	Let them and the inner commanderies and kingdoms each recommend one sincere and upright person who is able to speak frankly and admonish unflinchingly, and let the twenty-two commanderies at the northern border each recommend one person who is brave and fierce and knows the methods of warfare."
封萧相国后喜为酂侯。	封萧何相国的后代萧喜为酂侯。	[The Emperor] enfeoffed [Hsiao] Hsi, a descendant of the Chancellor of State, Hsiao [Ho], as Marquis of Tsan.
冬十二月辛亥，大司马大将军王商薨。	冬季十二月辛亥日，大司马大将军王商去世。	In the winter, the twelfth month, on [the day] hsin-hai, the Commander-in-chief and General-in-chief, Wang Shang, died.
是岁，昭仪赵氏害后宫皇子。	这一年，昭仪赵氏害死后宫的皇子。	In this year, the Brilliant Companion née Chao killed an Imperial Son in the Harem.
二年春正月，行幸甘泉，郊泰畤。	元延二年春正月，成帝驾临甘泉宫，在泰畤举行郊祀。	In the second year, in the spring, the first month, [the Emperor] traveled and favored Kan-ch'üan [Palace with a visit, where he] made the suburban sacrifice at the altar to the Supreme [One].
三月，行幸河东，祠后土。	三月，成帝驾临河东郡，祭祀后土。	In the third month, he traveled and favored Ho-tung [Commandery with a visit, where he] sacrificed to Sovereign Earth.
夏四月，立广陵孝王子守为王。	夏季四月，立广陵孝王的儿子刘守为王。	In the summer, the fourth month, he set up [Liu] Shou, the son of King Hsiao of Kuang-ling, [Liu Pa], as King [of Kuang-ling].
冬，行幸长杨宫，从胡客大校猎。宿萯阳宫，赐从官。	冬季，成帝驾临长杨宫，带领胡地宾客举行大规模狩猎。在萯阳宫住宿，赏赐随从官员。	In the winter, [the Emperor] traveled and favored Ch'ang-yang Palace [with a visit], and, accompanied by guests who were northwestern barbarians (Hu), he [held] a great hunting contest. He spent the night at Pei-yang Palace and made grants to his accompanying officials.
三年春正月丙寅，蜀郡岷山崩，雍江三日，江水竭。	元延三年春正月丙寅日，蜀郡岷山崩塌，堵塞江水三天，江水枯竭。	In the third year, in the spring, the first month, on [the day] ping-yin, Mt. Min in Shu Commandery collapsed, blocking the [Min] River to the third day, so that the water of the [Min] River was exhausted.
二月，封侍中卫尉淳于长为定陵侯。	二月，封侍中卫尉淳于长为定陵侯。	In the second month, [the Emperor] enfeoffed the Palace Attendant and Commandant of the Palace Guard, Shun-yü Chang, as Marquis of Ting-ling.
三月，行幸雍，祠五畤。	三月，成帝驾临雍地，祭祀五畤。	In the third month, [the Emperor] traveled and favored Yung [with a visit, where he] sacrificed at the altars to the Five [Lords on High].
四年春正月，行幸甘泉，郊泰畤。	元延四年春正月，成帝驾临甘泉宫，在泰畤举行郊祀。	In the fourth year, in the spring, the first month, [the Emperor] traveled and favored Kan-ch'üan [Palace with a visit, where he performed] the suburban sacrifice at the altar to the Supreme [One].
二月，罢司隶校尉官。	二月，撤销司隶校尉官职。	In the second month, the office of the Colonel Director of the Retainers was abolished.
三月，行幸河东，祠后土。	三月，成帝驾临河东郡，祭祀后土。	In the third month, [the Emperor] traveled and favored Ho-tung [Commandery with a visit, where he] sacrificed to Sovereign Earth.
甘露降京师，赐长安民牛、酒。	甘露降落在京城，赏赐长安百姓牛、酒。	Sweet dew descended in the imperial capital, and [the Emperor] granted oxen and wine to the common people of Ch'ang-an.
绥和元年春正月，大赦天下。	绥和元年春正月，大赦天下。	In [the period] Sui-ho, the first year, in the spring, the first month, a general amnesty [was granted] to the empire.
二月癸丑，诏曰：“朕承太祖鸿业，奉宗庙二十五年，德不能绥理宇内，百姓怨恨者众。	二月癸丑日，下诏说：“我继承太祖的宏大基业，奉祀宗庙二十五年，德行不能安定治理天下，百姓怨恨的人很多。	In the second month, on [the day] kuei-ch'ou, an imperial edict said, "We have succeeded to the vast estate of the Eminent Founder, [Emperor Kao], and have upheld the [imperial] ancestral temples to the twenty-fifth year. [But Our] virtue has been unable to give tranquility to or administer [properly the region] within the [empire's] boundaries. Many are the people who [cherish] resentment.
不蒙天晁，至今未有继嗣，天下无所系心。	没有得到上天的福佑，至今没有继承人，天下人没有可寄托心意的对象。	[We] have not received the blessing of Heaven, [for] down to the present [We] have not yet had an heir to succeed [Us], and the empire has no one to whom its hearts can attach themselves.
观于往古近事之戒，祸乱之萌，皆由斯焉。	考察古今往事的警戒，祸乱的萌芽，都由此产生。	When [We] look over the warnings [in the history] of the distant past and of recent events, the beginnings of calamities and disorders have all come from this [lack of an appointed heir].
定陶王欣于朕为子，慈仁孝顺，可以承天序，继祭祀。其立欣为皇太子。	定陶王刘欣对我来说如同儿子，慈爱仁厚孝顺，可以继承天命，延续祭祀。现立刘欣为皇太子。	The King of Ting-t'ao, [Liu] Hsin, has [acted] toward Us as a son. He is affectionate, benevolent, filial, and obedient, so that he may therefore follow [Us] in the succession [decreed by] Heaven, and continue the [imperial] sacrifices. Let [Liu] Hsin be made the Imperial Heir-apparent.
封中山王舅谏大夫冯参为宜乡侯，益中山国三万户，以慰其意。	封中山王的舅舅谏大夫冯参为宜乡侯，增加中山国三万户封地，以安慰他的心。	Let the Grandee-remonstrant Feng Ts'an, who is the maternal uncle of the King of Chung-shan, [Liu Hsing], be enfeoffed as Marquis of Yi-hsiang, and let the kingdom of Chung-shan be increased by thirty thousand households, in order to console [Liu Hsing's] feelings, [since he is not made Heir-apparent].
赐诸侯王、列侯金，天下当为父后者爵，三老、孝弟、力田帛，各有差。”	赏赐诸侯王、列侯黄金，天下应继承父业的人爵位，三老、孝悌、力田丝帛，各有等级差别。”	Let there be granted: to the vassal kings and full marquises, gold; to those in the empire who will be the successors to their fathers, a noble rank; to the Thrice Venerable, the Filially Pious, the Fraternally Respectful, and the [Diligent] Cultivators of the Fields, silk, to each proportionately."
又曰：“盖闻王者必存二王之后，所以通三统也。	又说：“听说帝王必定保存前两朝帝王的后代，用来贯通三统。	It also said, "Verily, [We] have heard that the [true] kings necessarily preserved the descendants of the two [preceding] kingly [dynasties], in order that they might thereby connect themselves with the Three Beginnings.
昔成汤受命，列为三代，而祭祀废绝。	从前成汤接受天命，（商朝）被列为三代之一，但祭祀已经废止断绝。	Anciently, T'ang the Victorious received [Heaven's] mandate and [his dynasty, the Yin,] is grouped among the Three Dynasties, yet his sacrifices have been neglected and cut off.
考求其后，奠正孔吉。其封吉为殷绍嘉侯。”	考察寻求他的后代，孔吉是合适的人选。封孔吉为殷绍嘉侯。”	When [We] sought for his descendants, none was more upright than K'ung Chi. Let [K'ung] Chi be enfeoffed as the Marquis Continuing and Honoring the Yin [Dynasty]."
三月，进爵为公，及周承休侯皆为公，地各百里。	三月，晋升爵位为公，和周承休侯都成为公，封地各一百里。	In the third month, his noble rank was advanced to be that of Duke. Together with the Marquis who Succeeds to the Greatness of the Chou [Dynasty, Chi Tang], they were both made Dukes, each with a territory of a hundred li [square].
行幸雍，祠五畤。	成帝驾临雍地，祭祀五畤。	[The Emperor] traveled and favored Yung [with a visit, where he] sacrificed at the altars to the Five [Lords on High].
夏四月，以大司马票骑将军为大司马，罢将军官。	夏季四月，将大司马骠骑将军改为大司马，撤销将军官职。	In the summer, the fourth month, the Commander-in-chief and General of Agile Cavalry, [Wang] Ken, was made [merely] Commander-in-chief, and his General's office was abolished.
御史大夫为大司空，封为列侯。益大司马、大司空奉如丞相。	御史大夫改为大司空，封为列侯。增加大司马、大司空的俸禄如同丞相。	[The title of] the Grandee Secretary was made that of the Grand Minister of Works, and [its incumbent, Ho Wu,] was enfeoffed as a full marquis. The salaries of the Commander-in-chief and the Grand Minister of Works were increased to be like that of the Lieutenant Chancellor.
秋八月庚戌，中山王兴薨。	秋季八月庚戌日，中山王刘兴去世。	In the autumn, the eighth month, on [the day] keng-hsü, the King of Chung-shan, [Liu] Hsing, died.
冬十一月，立楚孝王孙景为定陶王。	冬季十一月，立楚孝王的孙子刘景为定陶王。	In the winter, the eleventh month, [the Emperor] set up [Liu] Ching, a grandson of King Hsiao of Ch'u, [Liu Ao], as King of Ting-t'ao.
定陵侯淳于长大逆不道，下狱死。	定陵侯淳于长犯大逆不道之罪，被关进监狱死去。	The Marquis of Ting-ling, Shun-yü Chang, [who had committed] treason and inhuman conduct, was sent to prison and died.
廷尉孔光使持节赐贵人许氏药，饮药死。	廷尉孔光持符节赐贵人许氏毒药，许氏饮药而死。	and the Commandant of Justice, K'ung Kuang, was sent with credentials to grant poison to the honored lady née Hsü. She drank the poison and died.
十二月，罢部刺史，更置州牧，秩二千石。	十二月，撤销部刺史，改设州牧，俸禄为二千石。	In the twelfth month, the Inspectors of Regional Divisions were abolished and there were established instead Provincial Shepherds with the rank of two thousand piculs.
二年春正月，行幸甘泉，郊泰畤。	绥和二年春正月，成帝驾临甘泉宫，在泰畤举行郊祀。	In the second year, in the spring, the first month, [the Emperor] traveled and favored Kan-ch'üan [Palace with a visit, where he performed] the suburban sacrifice at the altar to the Supreme [One].
二月壬子，丞相翟方进薨。	二月壬子日，丞相翟方进去世。	In the second month, on [the day] jen-tzu, the Lieutenant Chancellor, Chai Fang-chin, died.
三月，行幸河东，祠后土。	三月，成帝驾临河东郡，祭祀后土。	In the third month, [the Emperor] traveled and favored Ho-tung [Commandery with a visit, where he] sacrificed to Sovereign Earth.
丙戌，帝崩于未央宫。	丙戌日，成帝在未央宫去世。	On [the day] ping-hsü, the Emperor died in Wei-yang Palace.
皇太后诏有司复长安南北郊。	皇太后诏令有关部门恢复长安南北郊的祭祀。	The Empress Dowager [née Wang] issued an imperial edict that the high officials should reestablish the [places] for the suburban sacrifices to the south and north of Ch'ang-an.
四月己卯，葬延陵。	四月己卯日，安葬在延陵。	In the fourth month, on [the day] yi-mao, [the Emperor] was buried in the Yen Tomb.
赞曰：臣之姑充后宫为婕妤，父子昆弟侍帷幄，数为臣言：	赞曰：我的姑姑进入后宫成为婕妤，父亲、儿子、兄弟在宫中侍奉，多次对我说：	In eulogy we say: Your servant [Pan Piao's] paternal aunt was given a place in the [imperial] harem and became a Favorite Beauty; her father, [Pan K'uang], his sons and her brothers waited [upon the Emperor] in his private apartments, and frequently said to your servant,
成帝善修容仪，升车正立，不内顾，不疾言，不亲指，临朝渊嘿，尊严若神，可谓穆穆天子之容者矣！	成帝善于修饰仪容举止，登上车驾时端正站立，不回头看，不急促说话，不亲自用手指点，临朝时深沉静默，尊严如同神明，可以说是有天子端庄的仪容啊！	"Emperor Ch'eng was good at cultivating his deportment and appearance. `When he mounted his chariot, he stood upright, he did not look around, he did not speak hastily, he did not point with his hands.' When he attended court, he was profound and silent, dignified and grave like a god, so that it might be [truly] said, Majestic is the bearing of the Son of Heaven.
博览古今，容受直辞。公卿称职，奏议可述。	博览古今典籍，能够容纳接受直言。公卿称职，奏议值得记述。	He read widely on [both] ancient and present [matters], and received frank discourses indulgently." His ministers were worthy of their positions, and their memorials and discussions are worthy of being transmitted [to posterity].
遭世承平，上下和睦。然湛于酒色，赵氏乱内，外家擅朝，言之可为於邑。	遭遇承平时代，上下和睦。然而沉湎于酒色，赵氏在宫内作乱，外戚专擅朝政，说起这些真令人叹息。	He happened upon an age which inherited a peaceful condition, when the superior and his inferiors were in concord. Yet he gave himself up to wine and women. The Chao clan caused disorder within [the palace] and his maternal relatives made themselves masters in the court. In saying this, I cannot but feel oppressed.
建始以来，王氏始执国命，哀、平短祚，莽遂篡位，盖其威福所由来者渐矣！	建始年间以来，王氏开始执掌国家命运，哀帝、平帝在位时间短暂，王莽于是篡夺皇位，大概他的权势和福分是逐渐形成的啊！	From [the period] Chien-shih onwards, the Wang clan first grasped the power of the state. [Emperors] Ai and P'ing had [only] short lives, and [Wang] Mang thereupon usurped the throne. In fact his [usurpation of the imperial power, thereby enabling him to grant] severity or favor, came about [very] gradually.