Page:Nihongi by Aston volume 2.djvu/332

Rh Harima and Tamba, and also to the labourers under them. A grade of cap-rank was accordingly conferred on each of the district governors.

17th day. Prince Mino, of Shōshi rank, and Katamaro, Ki no Omi, of Lower Shōkin rank, were appointed Commissioners for the erection of the great Temple of Takechi [now Ohomiya no Ohodera]. Now Fukurin, the priest appointed as superintendent, declined this office on account of age, but he was not allowed to refuse.

27th day. The Buddhist Priest Gisei was made Junior Sōdzu. On this day there were conjoined two additional priests as clerks. It was at this time that the practice of having four clerks first began.

This year was the year Midzunoto Tori (10th) of the Cycle.

3rd year, Spring, 1st month, 10th day. Prince Chhyang-syöng of Pèkché died. He was granted the rank of Outer Shōshi.

2nd month, 28th day. Abemaro, Ki no Omi, died. The Emperor was much grieved, and in consideration of his services in the campaign of the year Midzunoye Saru bestowed on him the rank of Daishi.

3rd month, 7th day. Ohokuni, Woshiumi no Miyakko, Governor of the province of Tsushima, reported that silver had been produced for the first time in that province, and sent some as tribute. Ohokuni was accordingly awarded the rank of Lower Shōkin. It was at this time that silver was first produced in Japan. Offerings were therefore made of it to all the Gods of Heaven and Earth, and presents of it were likewise given to the Daibu, etc., of the rank of Shōkin and above.

Autumn, 8th month, 3rd day. The Imperial Prince Wosakabe was sent to the shrine of Isonokami to brighten up the Divine precious things with oil. On the same day, the Emperor decreed, saying:—"Let all the precious things originally deposited in the Sacred Treasuries by the various Houses be returned to their descendants."