廣弘明集 2.13

2.13

The compiler of this collection says: The Emperor was originally from a region of horses and warfare, and had always been devoid of any familiarity with literary refinement. Having taken part in military affairs, wherever he went he exterminated and slaughtered; he took only this as governance, without engaging in other matters. Thus he killed the court historians because he felt ashamed of his errors being recorded. When Cui Hao plotted in secret, the Emperor failed to perceive his flattering eloquence, and so carried out the extermination. At the time it was considered the satisfaction of an era's desires. Before long, leprosy afflicted him; he had no way to undo his regrets. He came to regard Cui Hao as a mortal enemy; [his] cruel and excessive punishments became a laughingstock to the whole world.