Page:Nihongi by Aston volume 2.djvu/276

Rh ancient times there have been cases of troops being asked for and assistance requested: to render help in emergencies, and to restore that which has been interrupted, is a manifestation of ordinary principles of right. The Land of Pèkché, in its extremity, has come to us and placed itself in our hands. Their own country having been brought to ruin, having nowhere to betake themselves for help and none to apply to, making spears their pillows, tasting gall, and holding firmly to the hope of aid, they have come from afar and made a memorial to us. Our resolution in this matter is unshakeable. We shall give separate orders to Our generals to advance at the same time by a hundred routes, and then, like gathering clouds with thunderous commotion, meeting together at Satök, to massacre the monsters, and afford relief to the sufferers. Let the proper officials supply them with everything they require, and let them be dismissed with all due ceremony, etc., etc."

Prince Phung-chyang, with his wife and children, and his uncle, Chhyung-seung, etc., were dismissed home. The actual time of their being sent off may be seen in Year VII. One book says:—"The Empress established Phung-chyang as King, and made Sè-syang his assistant. They were sent off with all due ceremony."

12th month, 24th day. The Empress proceeded to the Palace of Naniha. The Empress, in order to comply with the request of Pok-sin, thought of going to Tsukushi and thence despatching a force in aid, and she therefore went there in the first place and made provision of weapons of all kinds.

This year, with a view to the invasion of Silla in the interest of Pèkché, an order was given to the province of Suruga to build a ship. When it was finished, and had been hauled as far as Womino, that ship, during the night, without cause, changed its bow for its stern. By this people knew that in the end there would be defeat.