178 SINLO. of Gaisoowun. His oldest son, Nanshimg, succeeded him as Moliju — ^for Corean office was hereditary. But as he desired supreme power, he had designs on the lives of his two brothers, Nanshan and Nanjien. They were informed of his purpose, but did not believe it Nanshung was in his turn told that his two brothers feared that he would destroy their power, and were therefore ready to oppose his entrance into the capital. This he believed, and sent some of his adherents into the capital to pave his way, and form a strong party. They were discovered, and the two brothers, believing now in the former report, seized these men and imprisoned them. The brothers then got the king's warrant to order Nanshung into the capital, but he dared not venture into Pingyang. The post of Moliju was therefore occupied by Nanjien, who, with an army, marched against Nanshung ; but the latter fled into Baobie city, and sent into Chinese territory to plead for help. To this appeal a ready and a glad response was given, and Holi was sent eastwards,, received Nanshung into his army, and employed him as guide. Other troops followed as soon as they were got ready. In the autumn Gaoli was defeated ; .and Nanshung was made great Doodoo of liaotung, Pingyang Dao and Duke of Hiientoo. Next year Liji was sent to take command of the Chinese army^ and the grain and tribute of Honan were forwarded to Liaotung. The various generals consulted together that, as Sinchung was the most westerly city of Gaoli and strongly situated, it was dangerous to pass, and leave it in their rear. They resolved to attack, and Liji led the army thither, when Shufoochow, the lord of the city, opened its gates. Sixteen other cities followed the example. This shows that Gaoli had recovered at least the south-east portion of the plain of Liaotung, lost by them in 645. Sinchung was immediately garrisoned by the Chinese, and Nanjien, marching westwards, soon afterwards was defeated by Hue Yingwei and pursued to Ginshan* Here they made another stand, and, while fighting, Hiie rushed upon their flank, threw
- This "gold mountain" is a few miles south-west from Kinchow in loMotxm^
peninsula, and by the sea-Bide. See Map 11.
