ABSTRACT
For ages, the area north of the Huai River has been the scene of frequent natural disasters. People would go without food for months and years. Under the reign of Emperor Hsien-feng even cannibalism was common. As the people described the situation, "After Hsien-feng ascended the throne, flood and drought alternated in succession. "Old Chang" was from Chang Lao-chia, twelve li northwest of Chih-ho-chi. He was a kindly man, well thought of by all. To help others, he would have sold his only pair of trousers. But, living at a time like this, he could not find enough food to feed himself, let alone help others. The rich Mu Shih-k'uei was known by everyone in Chih-ho-chi. His estate boasted herds of mules and horses, while his granaries were brimming with rice and wheat. He had more delicacies than he could eat; more silk clothing than he could wear. Mu employed more than ten guards to protect his enormous property.
