文言文	现代汉语	English
陈蕃字仲举，汝南平舆人也。	陈蕃，字仲举，汝南郡平舆县人。	Chen Fan, style named Zhongju, was a native of Pingyu District in Runan Commandery.
祖河东太守。	祖父官至河东太守。	His grandfather held his last official post as Governor of Hedong.
蕃年十五，尝闲处一室，而庭宇芜秽。	陈蕃十五岁时，曾经独处一室，庭院里很脏乱。	Once, when Chen Fan was fifteen years of age, he was left alone in a room, and the courtyard was dirty and in disorder.
父友同郡薛勤来候之，谓蕃曰：“孺子何不洒埽以待宾客？”	他父亲的朋友同郡人薛勤来他家，对陈蕃说：“小孩子怎么不打扫房间迎接客人？”	His father's friend and fellow townsman Xue Qin visited their house and said to Chen Fan, “How can a young boy not clean a room to welcome a guest?”
蕃曰：“大丈夫处世，当埽除天下，安事一室乎？”	陈蕃说：“大丈夫在世，应该扫除天下的垃圾，怎么能打扫一室呢？”	Chen Fan replied, “A gentleman living in this world must establish his will to clean up garbage for the entire world. How can he clean just one room?”
勤知其有清世志，甚奇之。	薛勤知道他有澄清天下的志向，很赏识他。	Realizing that the boy possessed the great ambition to clean up the world, Xue Qin appreciated Chen Fan very much.
初仕郡，举孝廉，除郎中。	开始时在郡里任职，被保举为孝廉，担任郎中。	At an early age, Chen worked as an officer in the commandery. He was recommended as a Filial and Incorrupt candidate and then appointed Gentleman of the Interior.
遭母忧，弃官行丧。	母亲去世，辞官服丧。	When his mother passed away, he resigned the post in order to comply with the mourning rites.
服阕，刺史周景辟别驾从事。	服丧期满，刺史周景召他担任别驾从事史。	After his mourning period was over, Regional Inspector Zhou Jing recruited him, appointing him as Mounted Escort and Retainer Clerk.
以谏争不合，投传而去。	因为进谏与长官不合，弃官离任了。	He was not able to get along with his superiors due to his constant admonitions. He returned the official seal and resigned.
后公府辟举方正，皆不就。	后来公府征召他以及保举他为方正，他都没有接受。	Later, when government officials summoned him, wanting to recommend him as a Straightforward and Upright candidate, he rejected them all.
太尉李固表荐，征拜议郎，再迁为乐安太守。	太尉李固上表举荐他，征召他担任议郎，又升为乐安太守。	Defender-in-chief Li Gu submitted a memorial to recommend him, so the emperor appointed him Court Gentleman for Consultation. He was promoted to be Governor of Le'an.
时李膺为青州刺史，名有威政，属城闻风，皆自引去，蕃独以清绩留。	当时李膺担任青州刺史，有严厉的名声。下属官员久闻李膺清正严厉的名气，都主动辞官，唯独陈蕃因政绩清廉而留任。	At that time, Li Ying was the Regional Inspector of Qingzhou and well-known for his strict and disciplined personality. Nearly all of Li Ying's subordinates wanted to resign because they heard of Li Ying's reputation for being upright and strict. Being honest and successful, only Chen Fan was able to stay in his job.
郡人周璆，高絜之士，前后郡守招命莫肯至，唯蕃能致焉。	乐安郡人周璆，是品德高洁的人，前后几任郡守招他都不肯去，只有陈蕃能把他请来。	Zhou Qiu, a native of Le'an Commandery, was a person of lofty virtue. He had been recruited by several previous governors, but he declined all their offers. Only Chen Fan could invite him to serve.
字而不名，特为置一榻，去则县之。	陈蕃称他的字，而不叫他的名，专门为他设了一个榻，周璆离开就把榻挂起来。	Chen Fan addressed Zhou Qiu by his style name instead of his given name, and arranged a low-bed just for him. When Zhou Qiu left, he would hang up this low-bed.
大将军梁冀威震天下，时遣书诣蕃，有所请托，不得通。	大将军梁冀威震天下，经常派人送信给陈蕃，叫他帮忙关照一些人事，陈蕃不见使者。	Grand General Liang Ji's reputation was widely known throughout the country. He often sent a messenger to deliver letters to Chen Fan, asking the latter to take care of some personal businesses. Chen Fan refused to meet with the messenger.
使者诈求谒，蕃怒，笞杀之，坐左转修武令。	使者就假装拜见他，陈蕃很生气，用鞭子把使者打死，因此降职为修武县令。	But the messenger tricked him into meeting anyway. Chen Fan was so angry that he whipped the messenger to death. Therefore, he was demoted to the post of Magistrate of Xiuwu.
稍迁，拜尚书。	不久升为尚书。	However, not long afterwards, he was promoted to the position of Imperial Secretary.
时零陵、桂阳山贼为害，公卿议遣讨之。	当时，零陵、桂阳两郡山贼为害百姓，公卿商议派兵讨伐。	During that period, the mountain bandits in the two Commanderies of Lingling and Guiyang had caused a lot of trouble for the local people. The court ministers and dukes discussed this issue and wanted to send troops to suppress them.
又诏下州郡，一切皆得举孝廉、茂才。	又发诏书下达州郡，暂时都可以推举孝廉、茂才。	In the meantime, the emperor issued an edict to each region or commandery, asking them to recommend candidates for Filial and Incorrupt as well as Cultivated Talent.
蕃上疏驳之曰：“昔高祖创业，万邦息肩，抚养百姓，同之赤子。今二郡之民，亦陛下赤子也。致令赤子为害，岂非所在贪虐使其然乎?宜严敕三府隐核牧守令长，其有在政失和，侵暴百姓者，即便举奏。更选清贤奉公之人，能班宣法令、情在爱惠者，可不劳王师，而群贼弭息矣。又三署郎吏二千余人，三府掾属过限未除，但当择善而授之，简恶而去之，岂烦‘一切’之诏，以长请属之路乎?”	陈蕃上疏驳正说：“以前高祖创立基业，战争停止，抚养百姓，像自己的小孩一样。现在二郡的百姓，也是陛下的孩子。导致自己的孩子作乱，难道不是地方官贪虐，使他们这样的吗?应该严肃命令三府，暗中核查州牧、郡守、县令长，那些在任没有和谐执政，反而侵暴百姓的，马上举报上奏。另选清贤奉公的人，能够宣布朝廷法令爱护百姓的人，可以不用动用武力，而贼盗自然消失。还有光禄勋下属的三署郎吏有二千多人，三府的掾属年三考勤应该拜官的多已过限没拜，应该选择成绩好的授予官职，把恶劣的罢黜。何必烦劳‘一切’的诏命，扩大开后门托人情的路呢?”	Chen Fan submitted a letter to criticize this decision. He said, “Long ago when Emperor Gao established our country, the war had ended and people were nurtured as if they were His Majesty’s own children. In the present day, the people of these two commanderies are still Your Majesty’s children. Hasn’t the corruption and abusive behavior of local officers induced troubles caused by your children? With all seriousness, Your Majesty must order the Three Dukes to investigate the Regional Inspectors, Governors, and District Magistrates secretly. If these local officers are found to be abusive, or if it is discovered that they do not manage affairs harmoniously, they should be reported to Your Majesty. Moreover, Your Majesty must select and appoint honest and upright people who can enforce the laws and protect the people. Then it will be unnecessary to use military force to suppress the bandits, who will automatically disappear. Furthermore, there are more than two thousand Court Gentlemen of the Three Corps under the Chamberlain for Attendants, and many subordinates of the Three Dukes whose three-year service terms have expired but have not been promoted. Your Majesty should select those with merit for promotion and remove the incompetent. Why bother to issue the ‘Encompassing All’ edict, which opens the back door for people to gain positions through influence?”
以此忤左右，故出为豫章太守。性方峻，不接宾客，士民亦畏其高。	因此触犯宦官，所以被外派担任豫章太守。性格正直刚强，不与人来往，士民也敬畏他的清高。	Because of this, he offended the eunuchs and was transferred to the Governorship of Yuzhang, a post outside the capital. He was upright and steadfast, and did not associate with anyone. People both respected him and feared him.
征为尚书令，送者不出郭门。	左右以征召担任尚书令，没有出城门送行的人。	When he was appointed Director of the Imperial Secretariat, there was no one to see him off at the city gate.
迁大鸿胪。	升大鸿胪。	Later, he was promoted to the post of Chamberlain for Dependencies.
会白马令李云抗疏谏，桓帝怒，当伏重诛。	刚好这时白马县令李云不遵皇帝命令对皇帝谏诤，桓帝发怒，要杀他。	Coincidentally, at this time, Li Yun, the Magistrate of the Baima District, failed to obey an imperial order but dared to reprimand the emperor, who then became furious and wanted to execute him.
蕃上书救云，坐免归田里。	陈蕃上书救李云，因此事被免官回家。	Chen Fan wrote a memorial to the emperor in an attempt to save Li Yun’s life. Because of this affair, Chen Fan was impeached and sent home.
复征拜议郎。	又被征召担任议郎。	Once more, Chen Fan was summoned and appointed Court Gentleman for Consultation.
数日，迁光禄勋。	几天后升光禄勋。	Several days later, he was promoted to the post of Chamberlain for Attendants.
时封赏逾制，内宠猥盛，蕃乃上疏谏曰：“……高祖之约，非功臣不侯。而闻追录河南尹邓万世父遵之微功，更爵尚书令黄隽先人之绝封	当时，封爵赏赐超越制度，内宠特别多，陈蕃于是上疏劝谏说：“……高祖的约定，不是功臣不能封侯。我却听说补录河南尹邓万世的父亲邓遵的小功，又将尚书令黄隽先人已经没有的爵位重新封给他，	At that time, the practice of bestowing noble titles or offering merit rewards was beyond policy limits, and many people of the inner court were greatly favored by the emperor. Chen Fan thus submitted a letter to exhort the emperor. He said, “…According to the principles outlined by Emperor Gao, if a person has not rendered outstanding service to the country, he cannot be named duke. However, I have heard that Deng Zun, the father of Henan Governor Deng Wanshi, had a title bestowed on him retroactively, after making only minor contributions. Your Majesty also restored the noble title of Director of Imperial Secretariat Huang Jun, which had previously lapsed.
近习以非义授邑，左右以无功传赏，授位不料其任，裂土莫纪其功。	县邑的，皇帝左右的人有没有功劳受赏赐的，授予官位不管他胜不胜任，封给爵位不管他有没有功劳，甚至一户人家中封侯的有几人，	It does not matter whether a person is suitable or not, an official position is bestowed on him. Neither does it matter whether a person has made any contributions; a title of nobility is granted. It has gone so far that even several members from one household are named duke.
故纬象失度，阴阳谬序，稼用不成，民用不康。	所以天象失去常度，阴阳顺序错谬，农业歉收，百姓不宁。	This is why the phenomena of Heaven go out of any regular pattern. This is why yin and yang are in disorder. The fields have yielded poor harvests, and the people are not at peace.
臣知封事已行，言之无及，诚欲陛下从是而止。	我知道封爵的命令已经下达，我的话已经来不及了，我确实希望陛下能够听从正确意见而停止这样做。	I understand that the edict of bestowing noble titles has been issued, and it is too late for me to say anything. However, I do hope that Your Majesty will listen to my sincerely offered advice and stop this edict.
又比年收敛，十伤五六，万人饥寒，不聊生活。	还有近年来农业收成，减少了十分之五六，人民饥寒，难以生存。	In recent years, crops have been reduced by more than a half. People are suffering from hunger and cold, and it is very hard for them to survive.
而采女数千，食肉衣绮，脂油粉黛不可赀计。	但宫中美女几千，吃着肉，穿着丝绸衣服，化妆品开销巨大。	However, there are several thousand beautiful women in the palace who enjoy good food and wear silk dresses. The expenses for their cosmetics alone are huge.
鄙谚言“盗不过五女门”，以女贫家也。今后宫之女，岂不贫国乎?	俗话说‘强盗不去抢有五个女儿的人家’，因为女儿多会使家庭贫穷。现在后宫的美女这么多，不是要使国家贫穷吗?	There is an old saying, “A thief doesn’t rob a family with five daughters,” because too many daughters make a family poor. Now, there are numerous beautiful women in the inner palace. Isn’t this making our country poor?
……陛下宜采求失得，择从忠善。尺一选举，委尚书、三公，使褒责诛赏，各有所归，岂不幸甚!	……陛下应该综合分析行为得失，听从忠善的意见，下诏书选举人家，应该为人尚书、三公，使得褒奖、责罚、诛杀、赏赐，各有专门的部门管理实行，这不是大好的事吗?	Your Majesty must consider the benefits and losses, and heed loyal and honest advice. Your Majesty does not need to issue an edict directly to every region or commandery to ask for recommendations. Instead, you should set up the posts of Director of Imperial Secretariat and Three Dukes, and get specific departments to take charge of praising, punishing, executing, and rewarding. Everyone will receive what he deserves. Isn’t this great?
帝颇纳其言，为出宫女五百余人，但赐隽爵关内侯，而万世南乡侯。	皇帝稍微采纳了他的建议，放出宫女五百多人，只赐了黄隽关内侯的爵位，邓万世封南乡侯。	The emperor more or less adopted Chen Fan’s advice. He released five hundred and more palace women, and only granted Huang Jun the title Marquis of Guannei and Deng Wanshi the title Marquis of the Southern Township.
延熹六年，车驾幸广城校猎，蕃上疏谏曰：“臣闻人君有事于苑囿，唯仲秋西郊，顺时讲武，杀禽助祭，以敦孝敬。如或违此，则为肆纵。	延熹六年(公元163年),皇帝到广成苑打猎。陈蕃上疏阻止说：“我听说君主到苑囿打猎，只有在仲秋郊祭的时候，顺应季节规律讲求武事，杀禽助祭，以崇厚孝敬的道理。如果不这样做，就属于肆意放纵了。	In the sixth year of the Yanxi era(163), the emperor went hunting at the Guangcheng Imperial Park. Chen Fan submitted a letter of admonition saying, "I have heard that the proper time for an emperor to go hunting in the Imperial Park is during the mid-autumn period of state sacrifice and worship. To perform military drills in accordance with seasonal patterns and to hunt animals for state sacrifice and worship is to demonstrate the virtues of filial piety and respect. If Your Majesty does not follow suit, you are indulging yourself in wanton pleasure.
……况当今之世，有‘三空'之厄哉!田野空、朝廷空、仓库空，是谓‘三空'。加兵戎未戢，四方离散，是陛下焦心毁颜，坐以待旦之时也，岂宜扬旗曜武、骋心舆马之观乎?	……况且现在这个时代，已经有三空的困厄呢!田野没有收成，朝廷没有贤人，仓库没有储蓄，这就是三空。加上战争还没有停息，民心离散，这正是陛下应该深刻反思的时候，怎么能扬旗曜武而安心去打猎呢!	Furthermore, at the present time, we are suffering from the 'Three Deficiencies'—'No crops in the field, no talent in the court, and no grain in the storehouses.' In addition, we are still at war, and people are dispersed and separated from their families. It is high time for deep introspection, Your Majesty. How can you now fly your banners and flags, show off your military power, and go hunting at your ease?
又秋前多雨，民始种麦，今失其劝种之时，而令给驱禽除路之役，非贤圣恤民之意也……	另外，秋天之前雨水多，百姓开始种麦，现在耽误劝种的时候，而让他们为你打猎做驱逐禽兽清除道路的劳役，这不是贤圣之君体恤人民的道理。……	Also, since we usually have sufficient rainfall prior to autumn, it is a good time for peasants to plant wheat. This is the proper time to encourage them to cultivate; but on the contrary, you make them clean off the roads that you will ride on for your hunting. This is not something a virtuous and sagely sovereign should do...
书奏，不纳	奏书上报，皇帝没有采纳	His letter was submitted to the emperor, but the emperor did not listen to him.
自蕃为光禄勋，与五官中郎将黄琬共典选举，不偏权富，而为势家郎所谮诉，坐免归。	陈蕃自从担任光禄勋，与五官中郎将黄琬共同负责官员选拔推举，不偏袒权贵富人，因而被特权阶级的人中伤，被罢官回家。	Since Chen Fan served as Chamberlain for Attendant, he was in charge of the recommendation and selection of officials together with Leader of Court Gentlemen for Miscellaneous Uses Huang Wan. They were not partial to powerful and wealthy people, nor did they side with them. Therefore, they were slandered by such people. Both were impeached and sent home.
顷之，征为尚书仆射，转太中大夫，八年，代杨秉为太尉。	不久，征召为尚书仆射，调任太中大夫。延熹八年(公元163年),接替杨秉担任太尉。	Not long after, Chen Fan was summoned to be Vice Director of Imperial Secretariat and soon after transferred to be the Superior Grand Master of the Palace. In the eighth year of the Yanxi era (165), he replaced Yang Bing as Defender-in-chief.
……中常侍苏康、管霸等复被任用，遂排陷忠良，共相阿媚。	……中常侍苏康、管霸等人再次被起用，于是排挤陷害忠良之臣，相互勾结。	…As Palace Attendants-in-ordinary Su Kang, Guan Ba, and others were once again appointed to various offices, they colluded with one another, framing and squeezing out loyal and honest officers.
大司农刘祐、廷尉冯绲、河南尹李膺，皆以忤旨为之抵罪。	大司农刘祐、廷尉冯绲、河南尹李膺，都因为违背皇上的旨意而受惩处。	Chamberlain for National Treasury Liu You, Chamberlain for Law Feng Kun, and Governor of Henan Li Ying were punished because they did not obey the emperor's decree.
蕃因朝会，固理膺等，请加原宥，升之爵任。言及反复，诚辞恳切。	陈蕃借朝会的时候，坚决为李膺等人申诉，请求皇上赦免他们官复原职。反复申诉，诚实恳切。	At morning court audience with the emperor, Chen Fan took the opportunity to make an appeal on behalf of Li Ying and others. He pressed his case persistently, making a plea to the emperor to pardon the men and to restore their official titles. He made such appeals repeatedly, with all honesty and sincerity.
帝不听，因流涕而起。	桓帝不听，陈蕃于是哭着起身。	The emperor, however, did not listen. Chen Fan cried and stood up.
时小黄门晋阳赵津、南阳大猾张氾等，奉事中官，乘势犯法，二郡太守刘顼、成晋考案其罪，虽经赦令，而并竟考杀。	当时小黄门晋阳人赵津、南阳大奸人张氾等人巴结宦官，仗势犯法，太原、南阳二郡太守刘顼、成晋考问并治他们的罪，虽然皇帝下了赦免令但仍然拷问到底，处之以死。	At that time, Palace Attendant Zhao Jin from Jinyang, Zhang Fan, a treacherous person from Nanyang, and various others fawned on the eunuchs. They abused their power and violated the law. Governors of Taiyuan and Nanyang Commanderies—Liu Zhi and Cheng Jin—interrogated Zhao Jin and Zhang Fan and wanted to make a sentence on them. Even though the emperor had issued an edict of pardon, they still examined the case thoroughly and executed them.
之。宦官怨恚，有司承旨，遂奏顼、罪当弃市。	刑。宦官们怨恨他们，有关部门秉承宦官的旨意，于是上奏皇帝说刘顼、成晋应判死罪。	They went on their interrogation and sentenced them to death. Thus, the eunuchs hated them. The officials concerned received orders from the eunuchs, so they submitted a report to the emperor suggesting that Liu Zhi and Cheng Jin should be sentenced to death.
又山阳太守翟超没入中常侍侯览财产，东海相黄浮诛杀下邳令徐宣，超、浮并坐髡钳，输作左校。	另外，山阳太守翟超没收了中常侍侯览的财产，东海国相黄浮杀了下邳县令徐宣。翟超、黄浮因此受髡钳之刑，到左校服劳役。	In addition, Governor of Shanyang Zhai Chao confiscated the property of Hou Lan, Palace Attendant-in-ordinary. Counselor-delegate of Donghai State Huang Fu killed Xu Xuan, District Magistrate of Xiapei. For their crimes, Zhai Chao and Huang Fu were punished, having their heads shaved and their necks placed in the stocks. They were then sent to labor at the Left Construction Office.
蕃与司徒刘矩、司空刘茂共谏请顼、晋、超、浮等，帝不悦。	陈蕃与司徒刘矩、司空刘茂一起劝谏皇帝，请求赦免刘顼、成晋、翟超、黄浮等人，桓帝不高兴。	Chen Fan, Minister of Education Liu Ju, and Minister of Works Liu Mao urged the emperor not to punish them. They also asked the emperor to pardon Liu Zhi, Cheng Jin, Zhai Chao, Huang Fu and others. The emperor was not happy at all.
有司劾奏之，矩、茂不敢复言。	有关部门上奏弹劾他们，刘矩、刘茂不敢再进谏。	The officials concerned submitted a report asking for the impeachment of Chen Fan and others. Liu Ju and Liu Mao did not dare to continue.
蕃乃独上疏曰：“……今寇贼在外，四支之疾；内政不理，心腹之患。臣寝不能寐，食不能饱，实忧左右日亲，忠言以疏，内患渐积，外难方深。……前梁氏五侯，毒遍海内，天启圣意，收而戮之，天下之议，冀当小平。”	陈蕃于是就单独上疏说：“……现在外部有侵略者，但还属于四肢的毛病；内政混乱，那可是心腹的毛病了。我觉也睡不着，吃饭也没胃口，主要是担心您一天天的亲近宦官，疏远忠诚的建议，内患慢慢地积累，外难正在加深。……以前梁氏五侯，毒遍海内，上天开启圣意，抓起来杀了，天下的议论，希望从此得到小的太平。”	Thus Chen Fan went on with the appeals alone to the emperor. He said, "Our country is currently suffering from invaders without, which works like a disease upon our four limbs; our domestic affairs are currently in disorder, which is like a disease in our vital organs. Neither can I sleep, nor can I eat. I am greatly worried that you become more intimate with the eunuchs day by day, while keeping your distance from honest and loyal advisors. The damage within is accumulating, while disasters without worsen. In earlier times, the Five Marquises of the Liang clan damaged the entire country with ferocity. Heaven demonstrated its wisdom, and thus, they were arrested and executed. The whole world was commenting on this situation, hoping to have a little peace in the end. "
明鉴未远，覆车如昨，而近习之权，复相扇结。	明明白白的前车之鉴还不远，现在又像以前一样倾覆车子，而宦官的权力，又相互扇动勾结，	A lesson can be drawn from that recent mistake, but Your Majesty still follows the overturned cart up ahead. Powerful eunuchs collude with one another and stir up troubles.
小黄门赵津、大滑张氾等，肆行贪虐，奸媚左右。	小黄门赵津、大奸恶张汜等人任意做贪婪残暴之事，阿谀宦官，	Palace Attendant Zhao Jin, big devil Zhang Fan, and others not only indulge themselves in greed and violence, but also dote upon the eunuchs.
前太原太守刘踬、南阳太守成，纠而戮之。	前太原太守刘踬、南阳太守成缙收捕处死了他们。	The previous Governor of Taiyuan Liu Zhi and Governor of Nanyang Cheng Jin arrested them and executed them.
虽言赦后不当诛杀，原其诚心，在乎去恶。	虽说赦后不应该被处死，但推求他们的真正目的，在于除去恶人。	Although Zhao and Zhang should not have been executed after amnesty was ordered, it was found that the true purpose behind the executions was to remove evil.
至于陛下，有何情悄?	陛下又有什么可生气的呢?	Why is Your Majesty angry with them?
又前山阳太守翟超、东海相黄浮，奉公不桡，疾恶如仇，超没侯览财物，浮诛徐宣之罪，并蒙刑坐，不逢赦恕。	前山阳太守翟超，东海相黄浮，奉法公正不会屈服，疾恶如仇，翟超没收侯览的财产，黄浮按罪杀了徐宣，都因此获罪，没有得到赦免宽恕。	Moreover, the previous Governor of Shanyang Zhai Chao and Counselor-delegate of Donghai State Huang Fu are both law-abiding and upright. Nothing can make them yield. They hate evil like an enemy. Because Zhai Chao confiscated Hou Lan's properties, and Huang Fu killed Xu Xuan in accordance with his guilt, they were punished and received no amnesty.
览之从横，没财已幸；宣犯衅过，死有余辜。	像侯览这样气焰嚣张，没收财产已是万幸了；徐宣犯罪，死有余辜。	Hou Lan, so swollen with arrogance, should consider himself lucky, even with the confiscation of his property. As for Xu Xuan, even death would not expiate all his crimes.
昔丞相申屠嘉召责邓通，洛阳令董宣折辱公主，而文帝从而请之，光武加以重赏，未闻二臣有专命之诛。	以前丞相申屠嘉召来邓通批评他，洛阳令董宣杀了湖阳公主的家奴，而文帝听从了并替邓通求情，光武帝又给予董宣重赏，没有听说他们两人被杀。	In earlier times, Counselor-in-chief Shen Tujia summoned Deng Tong and reprimanded him; Magistrate of Luoyang Dong Xuan killed a servant of Princess Huyang's. Emperor Guangwu not only pleaded with the princess for Dong Xuan, he also granted Dong Xuan a handsome reward. I did not hear that they were killed.
而今左右群竖，恶伤党类，妄相交构，致此刑谴。	现在你左右的宦官们，互相勾结，陷害忠良，所以招致这样的处罚。	Now, it is because the eunuchs around Your Majesty have colluded with one another, and framed loyal and honest officials, that they have received such a punishment.
闻臣是言，当复啼诉。	他们如果知道了我这番话，应该又会向您哭诉。	If the eunuchs hear what I am reporting to you, they will certainly complain about me most tearfully.
陛下深宜割塞近习豫政之源，引纳尚书朝省之事，公卿大官五日壹朝，简练清高，斥黜佞邪。	陛下应该断绝宦官参与政治的源头，接纳尚书朝会省觐，公卿大官五天一上朝，选拔清廉高尚的人，罢黜奸邪小人。	Your Majesty must cut off the source of the eunuchs' political interference. You must have an audience with Imperial Secretariat each morning, and have him report everything to you. Every duke, minister or high-ranking official must have an audience with you every five days. Select those who are incorruptible and virtuous, and abolish those who are crafty and evil.
如是，天和于上，地洽于下，休祯符瑞，岂远乎哉?	这样就会天上地下与天地和谐，天地显示的祥瑞，还会远吗?	In doing so, the entire world will remain harmonious with Heaven and Earth. Is it too much to hope that we might still get auspicious omens from Heaven and Earth?
陛下虽厌毒臣言，凡人主有自勉强，敢以死陈。	陛下即使厌恶我的话，但凡做皇帝的应该自我勉励，我这里冒死陈述。	An emperor must urge himself to do the right things. Even if Your Majesty dislikes my advice, I am willing to sacrifice my life in order to report to you.
帝得奏愈怒，竟无所纳。	桓帝看到这个奏章更加恼怒，一点儿也没有采纳，朝廷官员和百姓没有不怨恨宦官的。	Emperor Huan became more furious upon reading Chen Fan's memorial and did not want to accept his advice at all. Both the court officials and the commoners resented the eunuchs.
宦官由此疾蕃弥甚，选举奏议，辄以中诏谴却，长吏已下多至抵罪。犹以蕃名臣，不敢加害。	宦官们因此更加痛恨陈蕃，他所举荐的人才以及奏章，往往被宦官借皇帝的名义斥责退回，他属下的官吏很多因此被治罪，还因为考虑到陈蕃是有威望的官员，才不敢加害。	Therefore, the eunuchs hated Chen Fan even more. The talents Chen Fan recommended and the reports he submitted were retorted and returned by the eunuchs in the name of the emperor. Many of Chen Fan's subordinates were punished. Because Chen Fan was powerful and well respected, the eunuchs did not dare to harm him.
九年，李膺等以党事下狱考实，蕃因上疏极谏曰：	九年(公元166年),李膺等人因为党锢案下狱拷问。	In the ninth year of the Yanxi era(166), Li Ying and others were imprisoned and investigated due to a case of political faction.
“臣闻贤明之君，委心辅佐；亡国之主，讳闻直辞。	陈蕃于是上疏激烈劝谏说：“我听说贤明的皇帝，信赖辅佐大臣；亡国之君，不喜欢听到正直的话。	Chen Fan wrote a memorial to fiercely admonish the emperor. He said, "I have heard that the sage emperor entrusts the nation's affairs to trustworthy officials, and the emperor of a subjugated nation refuses to listen to honest advice.
伏见前司隶校尉李膺、太仆杜密、太尉掾范滂等，正身无玷，死心社稷。	我看到前司隶校尉李膺、太仆杜密、太尉掾范滂等人，正直立身毫无缺点，忠心国家，却因为忠心而触犯皇帝。	I know that the previous Metropolitan Commandant Li Ying, Chamberlain for the Imperial Stud Du Mi, Clerk of Defender-in-chief Fan Pang and others have established themselves with upright and flawless character. They are extremely loyal to our nation.
以忠忤旨，横加考案，或禁锢闭隔，或死徙非所。	胡乱加以拷问，有的被禁锢不得出仕，有的死去有的流放。	However, because of their loyalty they have offended Your Majesty, and therefore have been interrogated most carelessly. Some were imprisoned and removed from their posts, some died, and some others were exiled.
杜塞天下之口，聋盲一世之人，与秦焚书坑儒，何以为异?	不让天下人说话，使天下人成为聋子盲子，与秦朝的焚书坑儒有什么差别?	Now, the entire world has been prohibited from talking, which has caused all to go deaf and blind. How is this different from Emperor Qin Sihuang's burning of classics and burial of Confucians?
昔武王克殷，表闾、封墓，今陛下临政，先诛忠贤，遇善何薄，待恶何优?	以前武王讨伐殷商，立表商容的门闾，封高比干的墓，现在陛下管理政事，却要先杀忠贤。您对待善人为什么这么薄情?对待恶人为什么这样优厚?	In ancient times, when Emperor Wu mobilized the Shang Dynasty, he erected a gate to commemorate Shang Rong, and to heap a tumulus over Bi Gan's grave. Now, Your Majesty is managing the nation's affairs, but what you do first is to kill the most loyal and honest of your people. What causes you to be so unkind to these honest people, and so lenient to those evil ones?
人君者，摄天地之政，秉四海之维，举动不可以违圣法，进退不可以离道规。	皇帝，掌握天下的政权，拿着四海的准绳，行为不可以违背圣人制定的法度，进退不可以违背道德规范。	As an emperor, you possess the power and authority of the entire nation and hold the reins of the Four Seas, so your behavior must follow the rules established by ancient sages. You must obey the rules of morality and follow the disciplines when advancing or retreating.
谬言出口，则乱及八方，何况对无罪的人进行处罚和杀戮。	发出错误的言语，就会使八方混乱，何况对无罪的人进行处罚和杀。	When you utter incorrect words, this causes disorder in every place—not even to mention that you are punishing and killing the innocent.
髡无罪于狱，杀无辜于市乎？	难道可以在监狱里杀无罪的人，在集市上杀无辜的人吗？	Can we imprison those who are innocent and execute the guiltless in the marketplace?
又青、徐炎旱，五谷损伤，民物流迁，茹菽不足。	还有青州、徐州发生了干旱，五谷歉收，百姓流离失所，豆菜都吃不饱。	Moreover, Qingzhou and Xuzhou are suffering from drought; crops have failed, people are displaced, and even beans are insufficient for food.
而宫女积于房掖，国用尽于罗纨，外戚私门，贪财受赂。	但是宫中宫女众多，国家的财用都耗费在锦罗绸缎上，外戚豪门贪污受贿。	Yet in the palace, women accumulate in the chambers, the nation’s wealth is exhausted on silks and satins, and the imperial relatives and powerful clans are corrupt and accept bribes.
所谓‘禄去公室，政在大夫’。	这就叫‘俸禄离开了公家，政权掌握在权臣手里’。	This is what is meant by “when the imperial house loses its emoluments, power falls into the hands of the ministers.”
天之于汉，恨恨无已，故殷勤示变，以悟陛下。	上天对汉朝的怨恨无穷无尽，所以殷切地以灾异示警，让陛下觉悟。	Heaven bears endless resentment toward the Han, and thus earnestly reveals omens to awaken Your Majesty.
除妖去孽，实在修德。	要想消除灾异，根本在于修养德行。	To dispel disasters and remove evils, the essential path lies in cultivating virtue.
臣位列台司，忧责深重，不敢尸禄惜生，坐观成败。	我身居高位，忧虑责任重大，不敢尸位素餐、贪生怕死，坐视国家成败。	I hold a high ministerial position, burdened with grave responsibility; I dare not draw my salary idly, cling to life, and sit watching the nation’s fate.
如蒙采录，使身首分裂，异门而出，所不恨也。	如果我的话被采纳，即使被斩首分尸，也毫无怨恨。	If my words are heeded, even should my head and body be separated, I would bear no regret.
帝讳其言切，托以蕃辟召非其人，遂策免之。	皇帝嫌他言辞过于激烈，以陈蕃征召不当为由，下诏免去其职。	The emperor found his remonstrance too harsh and dismissed him on the pretext that Chen Fan had recruited unsuitable men.
永康元年，帝崩。	永康元年(公元167年)，桓帝去世。	In the first year of the Yongkang era (167), Emperor Huan passed away.
窦后临朝，诏曰：“夫民生树君，使司牧之，必须良佐，以固王业。	窦太后掌管朝政，下诏说：“生民之初，设立君主，让他管理人民，一定要得到好的助手，以巩固帝王的基业。	Empress Dowager Dou took charge of court affairs. She issued an edict saying, "Since the very beginning of human existence, people have designated a sovereign and allowed him to manage their lives. The sovereign must obtain capable assistants to stabilize the foundation of the empire.
前太尉陈蕃，忠清直亮，其以蕃为太傅录尚书事。”	前太尉陈蕃，忠心清廉正直诚实。命令用陈蕃担任太傅，录尚书事。	Previous Defender-in-chief Chen Fan was a man of loyalty, honesty, uprightness, and sincerity. I am appointing Chen Fan to be Grand Mentor and Overseer of Imperial Secretariat Affairs."
时新遭大丧，国嗣未立，诸尚书畏惧权官，托病不朝。	当时，皇帝刚去世，继承人还没有立，各个尚书畏惧权官，托病不朝会。	At that time, because the late emperor had just passed away and the successor to the throne had not yet been designated, the Imperial Secretaries, fearing powerful officials, pretended to be ill and did not attend court.
蕃以书责之曰：“古人立节，事亡如存。	陈蕃写信批评他们说：“古人立节，侍奉去世的皇帝好像他活着一样。	Chen Fan wrote a memorial to criticize them. He said, "As the ancient people established propriety, they served the late emperor as if he were still alive.
今帝祚未立，政事日蹙，诸君奈何委荼蓼之苦，息偃在床？	现在新君还没有立，政事一天比一天紧张，你们怎么可以回避艰苦而偷息在家不管呢？	Now, the new emperor has not been designated, and state affairs grow more urgent day by day. How can you rest at home to escape hardship?
于义不足，焉得仁乎？”	不符合道义，怎么能得到仁呢？	What you are doing does not conform to morality and justice. How can you expect to attain benevolence?"
诸尚书惶怖，皆起视事。	各个尚书惶恐不安，都正常办公了。	Imperial Secretaries were alarmed, so they once again attended court sessions.
灵帝即位，窦太后复优诏蕃，	灵帝即位，窦太后又下诏优待陈蕃，	After Emperor Ling ascended the throne, Empress Dowager Dou once again summoned and rewarded Chen Fan.
……封蕃高阳乡侯，食邑三百户	……封陈蕃高阳乡侯，食邑三百户	She named Chen Fan Marquis of Gaoyang Township, including a fiefdom of three hundred households.
蕃上疏让，……章前后十上，竞不受封	陈蕃上疏辞让……奏章前后上了十次，最终不接受封爵	Chen Fan submitted a memorial to decline the offer...After ten rounds of negotiations, circulating back and forth, he still did not accept the offer.
初，桓帝欲立所幸田贵人为皇后，蕃以田氏卑微，窦族良家，争之甚固	早先时候，桓帝想立所宠爱的田贵人为皇后，陈蕃认为田氏出身卑微，而窦氏是高门大族，陈蕃竭力反对皇帝立田贵人	In earlier times, Emperor Huan wanted to set up his beloved Worthy Lady Tian as empress. Chen Fan felt that Lady Tian's family origin was too humble, while Lady Dou's family was high-ranking and powerful. Therefore, he completely opposed the emperor's idea.
帝不得已，乃立窦后	桓帝没办法，于是立了窦氏	Emperor Huan had no option but to name Lady Dou as empress.
及后临朝，故委用于蕃	等到窦太后执掌朝政，因而重用陈蕃	While Empress Dowager Dou held the reins of state, she put Chen Fan in important positions.
蕃与后父大将军窦武同心尽力，征用名贤，共参政事，天下之士莫不延颈想望太平	陈蕃与窦太后的父亲大将军窦武同心尽力，征用有高名的贤人，共同参与国家政治，天下人无不伸长脖子期待国家太平	Chen Fan and Grand General Dou Wu, Empress Dowager's father, made concerted efforts to employ the most capable and worthy candidates. Thus, they worked together to manage the entire nation's affairs. People of the whole country craned their necks, eagerly looking forward to a peaceful life.
而帝乳母赵娆，旦夕在太后侧，中常侍曹节、王甫等与共交描，谄事太后	但灵帝的乳母赵娆，日夜都在窦太后身边，中常侍曹节、王甫等人与她勾结，讨好太后	However, Emperor Ling's wet nurse Zhao Rao was at Empress Dowager's side day and night. Palace Attendants-in-ordinary Cao Jie, Wang Fu, and others colluded with her to flatter Empress Dowager.
太后信之，数出诏命，有所封拜，及其支类，多行贪虐	太后信任他们，多次下诏令给他们封爵授官，而他们的手下干了很多贪婪暴虐的事	Empress Dowager trusted them a great deal and many times bestowed fiefdoms on them. Yet their subordinates were corrupt and committed abusive acts.
蕃常疾之，志诛中官，会窦武亦有谋	陈蕃一贯厌恶他们，决心诛灭宦官，正好窦武也有这样的想法	Chen Fan always hated and despised these people, so he made up his mind to destroy them. At the same time, Dou Wu hatched an identical idea.
蕃自以既从人望，而德于太后，必谓其志可申，乃先上疏曰：“臣闻言不直而行不正，则为欺乎天而负乎人；	陈蕃一方面认为自己的作为符合民心，又认为自己对太后立为皇后的事有功，认为自己的目的一定可以实现，于是先上疏说：“我听说话不正直，行为不端正，那是欺骗上天，辜负民心；	On one hand, Chen Fan believed that what he was about to do conformed with what the people wanted. On the other hand, he believed that he had once made a great contribution by helping to establish Empress Dowager in her grand position. Therefore, he submitted a memorial to Empress Dowager and said, "I have heard that when a person talks dishonestly and behaves improperly, he is deceiving Heaven and letting down the people.
危言极意， 则群凶侧目，祸不旋踵	说话耿直，志向端正，那么就会被凶恶的人怨恨，灾祸就会马上降临	When a person talks in a straightforward and upright manner, his attitude is dignified. He will be resented by evil, and disaster will immediately fall on him.
钧此二者，臣宁得祸，不敢欺天也	考量这两者，我宁愿得祸也不敢欺骗上天	Considering these two possibilities, I would rather choose to suffer disaster than dare to deceive Heaven.
今京师嚣嚣，道路喧哗，言侯览、曹节、公乘昕、王甫、郑飒等，与赵夫人诸女尚书并乱天下，附从者升进，忤逆者中伤	现在京师以及行人议论纷纷，说侯览、曹节、公孙昕、王甫、郑飒等人与赵娆夫人及各位女尚书一起扰乱天下。依附他们的就升官，违背他们的就陷害	Now, people everywhere in the capital are talking about it. They say that Hou Lan, Cao Jie, Gongsun Xin, Wang Fu, and Zheng Sa joined Lady Zhao Rao as well as other female Imperial Secretaries to get the empire into chaos. Those who attach to them will be promoted, and those who disobey them will be harmed.
方今一朝群臣，如河中木耳!泛泛东西，耽禄畏害	现在朝廷百官好像是黄河中的浮木，东西漂流，只关心禄位而不敢正直行事	Now, hundreds of court officials are like those drifting woods in the Yellow River—they drift here and there. Their only concern is for their posts and their status. They don't dare to speak up and do the right thing.
陛下前始摄位，顺天行诛，苏康、管霸并伏其辜	陛下前不久开始摄政，替天行道，苏康、管霸一起处死	Your Majesty started management of state affairs not long ago, and you acted in accordance with Heaven's decree. You punished and executed Su Kang and Guan Ba.
是时天地清明，人鬼欢喜	当时天地清明，人鬼欢喜	At that time, Heaven and Earth became clear and bright, and people and spirits—no matter who—were delighted.
奈何数月，复纵左右?元恶大奸，莫此之甚	为什么才过几个月，又放纵宦官了呢?首恶大奸，没有比他们更厉害的	Why, after only a few months, have you become so indulgent with the eunuchs? These eunuchs are the most evil and treacherous in the world. No one can compare with them in that regard.
今不急诛，必生变乱，倾危社稷，其祸难量	现在不赶快诛杀他们，必将发生变故，危害国家，这种祸害难以估量	If you don't kill them now, unforeseen events will soon occur, which will bring misfortune to our country. The damage will be impossible to be measured.
愿出臣章，宣示左右，并令天下诸奸知臣疾之	希望您把我的奏章给宦官们看，让天下的奸人们都知道我厌恶他们	I hope that you will show my memorial to the eunuchs and let the world's evils know that I detest them.
太后不纳，朝廷闻者，莫不震恐	窦太后没有采纳，朝廷中听说这件事的人无不震惊恐惧	Empress Dowager Dou did not accept Chen's advice. Those of the court who heard about it were shocked, and felt dreadful.
蕃因与窦武谋之，语在武传。	陈蕃于是与窦武谋划诛杀宦官的事，这件事记载在《窦武传》。	Nonetheless, Chen Fan and Dou Wu implemented their plan to kill the eunuchs. This event was recorded in the Biography of Dou Wu.
及事泄，曹节等矫诏诛武等。	等到事情泄露，曹节等人伪造诏令杀了窦武等人。	Unfortunately, their plan was leaked, so Cao Jie and others forged a decree to kill Dou Wu and his fellows.
蕃时年七十余，闻难作，将官属诸生八十余人，并拔刃突入承明门，	陈蕃当时七十多岁，听说变故发生，率领属官和学生八十多人，一起拔刀冲入承明门，	Chen Fan was a little more than seventy years old at that time. When he heard that an unforeseen accident occurred, he led his subordinates and disciples, a total of eighty and more, armed with knives, on a rush into Chengming Gate.
攘臂呼曰：“大将军忠以卫国，黄门反逆，何云窦氏不道邪?”	振臂喊道：“大将军以忠诚保卫国家，宦官叛逆，怎么说窦氏不守臣道呢?”	They raised their arms, shouting, "The Grand General uses his loyalty to protect our country. It is the eunuchs who revolt against him. How can you say that the Dou family does not behave like loyal subjects?"
王甫时出，与蕃相迕，适闻其言，而让蕃曰：	王甫当时从里面出来，与陈蕃相遇，刚好听到他的话，就责让陈蕃说：	At that time Wang Fu came outside and ran into Chen Fan. By chance he heard what Chen Fan had said and then reproached him, saying:
“先帝新弃天下，山陵未成，窦武何功，兄弟父子一门三侯?又多取掖庭宫人，作乐饮宴，旬月之间，赀财亿计。大臣若此，是为道邪?公为栋梁，枉桡阿党，复焉求贼?”	“先帝刚刚去世，陵墓还没有建成，窦武有什么功劳，兄弟父子一家三人封侯?又把掖庭的许多宫女带出，饮宴作乐，旬月之间花费上亿钱。大臣做成这样，难道还是为臣道吗?你作为国家栋梁，却枉与朋党勾结，还要到哪里去捉贼?”	"Our late emperor has just passed away, and his mausoleum has not yet been completed; what merits has Dou Wu earned to have himself, his brother, and his son all granted marquisates? He has also brought many palace women from his quarters, indulging in banquets and entertainments, spending vast sums within a single month. If a high minister behaves like this, is that being a loyal subject? You are a pillar of the state yet collude with partisan friends—how do you expect to catch the guilty now?"
遂令收蕃。	于是命令逮捕陈蕃。	Wang Fu then ordered Chen Fan to be arrested.
蕃拔剑叱甫，甫兵不敢近。	陈蕃拔剑叱责王甫，王甫的士兵不敢靠近。	Chen Fan drew his sword and scolded Wang Fu, and Wang Fu's soldiers did not dare to approach.
乃益人围之数十重，遂执蕃，送黄门北寺狱。	又增兵里三层外三层地包围了陈蕃，于是抓了陈蕃，送进黄门北寺狱关押。	Wang Fu then increased the troops, surrounding him in many layers; they seized Chen Fan and sent him to the eunuch-controlled Palace Prison at the North Temple.
黄门从官驺蹋踧蕃曰：“死老魅!复能损我曹员数、”	黄门属官用脚踢陈蕃说：“死老鬼，还能再减少我们的编制，剥夺我们的外快吗?”	One of the eunuch attendants kicked Chen Fan and sneered, "You old devil, do you think you can still cut down our numbers and take away our extra pay?"
夺我曹禀假不?”即日害之。	当天就杀害了他。	“The same day, Chen Fan was killed.”
徙其家属于比景，宗族门生故吏皆斥免禁锢。	把他的家属流放到比景，宗族、门生、旧部下全部被免职遭到禁锢不许出仕。	All of Chen Fan's family members were exiled to Bijing. Members of his clan, his disciples, and his previous subordinates were all removed from their positions and barred from holding office.
蕃友人陈留朱震时为钰令，闻而弃官哭之，收葬蕃尸，匿其子逸于甘陵界中。	陈蕃的友人陈留人朱震，当时担任锤县令，听说此事就辞官前往痛哭，收葬了陈蕃的尸体，把陈蕃的儿子陈逸藏在甘陵界中。	Zhu Zhen, a friend of Chen Fan from Chenliu, was serving as District Magistrate of Zhi. When he heard of the incident, he resigned from his post and went to mourn Chen Fan. He buried Chen Fan and hid his son, Chen Yi, between the borders of Gan and Ling.
事觉系狱，合门桎梏。震受考掠，誓死不言，故逸得免。	此事被发觉，朱震被抓进监狱，全家受刑。朱震受拷打，但誓死不说出陈逸的藏身之处，因此陈逸得以逃过此劫。	Zhu Zhen’s plan to hide Chen Yi was discovered. He was arrested and imprisoned, and his entire family punished. Zhu Zhen was interrogated and severely beaten but he pledged his life to keep Chen Yi’s whereabouts secret. Accordingly, Chen Yi was able to escape from this disaster.
后黄巾贼起，大赦党人，乃追还逸，官至鲁相。	后来黄巾起义，朝廷赦免党人，于是招回陈逸，官至鲁国相。	Later, when the Yellow Turban Uprising occurred, the imperial court pardoned the members of the faction. Chen Yi was summoned back and eventually appointed Counselor-delegate of Lu State.
震字伯厚，初为州从事，奏济阴太守单匡臧罪，并连匡兄中常侍车骑将军超。	朱震字伯厚，开始时担任州从事，上奏举报济阴太守单匡贪污，并奏及单匡的哥哥中常侍车骑将军单超。	Zhu Zhen’s style name was Bohou. At an early age, he served as Retainer of his region. He submitted a report disclosing the corruption of Shan Kuang, Governor of Jiyin. His report also implicated Shan Kuang’s elder brother, Shan Chao, Palace Attendant-in-ordinary and General of Chariot and Horse.
桓帝收匡下廷尉以谴超。超诣狱谢。三府谚曰：“车如鸡栖马如狗，疾恶如风朱伯厚。”	桓帝抓了单匡下廷尉狱，以此责让单超，单超到监狱谢罪。三府流传说：“贵族官僚的车马如鸡窝和狗一样多，痛恨恶人像劲风一样的是朱伯厚。”	Emperor Huan arrested Shan Kuang and put him in the jail of the Chamberlain for Laws. He used this case to reprimand Shan Chao, who went to the jail to offer an apology. It was said in the offices of the Three Dukes: “The carriages and horses of those powerful families and bureaucrats are as many as chicken coops and dogs. The person who detests evildoers with the swiftness of a high wind is Zhu Bohou.”
论曰：桓灵之世，若陈蕃之徒，咸能树立风声，抗论悟俗	论曰：桓帝、灵帝的时代，像陈蕃这些人，都能树立威望名声，在混乱的世道中正义直言。	During the eras of Emperor Huan and Emperor Ling, people such as Chen Fan and his fellows were able to establish their reputation. Thus they were held in high esteem.
而驱驰检厄之中，与刑人腐夫同朝争衡，终取灭亡之祸者	而生存在危险的境地，与宦官同朝抗争，最终被杀害。	They lived in a dangerous environment and always fought the eunuchs at court. In the end, they were all killed.
彼非不能矜情志、违埃雾也	他们不是不能以高洁情操去隐居避世，只是痛心世俗之士以游离俗世为高尚，而没有担忧国家大事的。	They could have lived as hermits, pure and virtuous, hiding from the mundane world. But the sight of so many people seeking to escape the mundane as a way of displaying higher virtue distressed Chen Fan and his fellows.
愍夫世士以离俗为高，而人伦莫相恤也	认为隐居是不合仁义的，所以屡次罢官但不离官场。	They resented the fact that so few viewed the country's affairs as a priority. They believed that a life of seclusion was not in accordance with values of benevolence and righteousness. Therefore, they resigned numerous times but never left the official circle.
以遁世为非义，故屡退而不去	把仁心爱民作为自己的责任，天下太平虽然遥远但更加以此激励自己。	They took as their own the responsibility of treating people with care and a benevolent heart. They understood the fact that, even if the achievement of world peace was remote, they must encourage themselves to press forward with more fortitude.
以仁心为己任，虽道远而弥厉	等到机会来了，协助窦武的策划，自认为万世一遇也。	When the opportunity came, they assisted Dou Wu with his plan, thinking that this chance was the only one before them. Never in a million generations would this opportunity arise again.
及遭际会，协策窦武，自谓万世一遇也	懔懔乎伊、望之业矣!	It was as if they were witnessing the honorable accomplishments of Yi Yin and Grand Duke Jiang.
功虽不终，然其信义足以携持民心	虽然没有成功，但他的忠信正义足以稳定民心。	Even though they were not successful, their loyalty, trustworthiness and righteousness stabilized people at heart.
汉世乱而不亡，百余年间，数公之力也	汉朝能够虽乱而不亡，一百多年之间，都是他们的功劳啊。	Although the Han Dynasty was constantly in turmoil for more than one hundred years, it was not destroyed just because such people made great contribution.