An I.O.U. of Chien Lung Period

Stephen Tai
May, 01, 1998

The shown paper is an I.O.U. made as of the 12^th month, the 53^rd year of Chien Lung (1788, 1736-1795), and a mechanism or ritual called upon by the borrower and the lender of a loan, when it was about taking place. It was written as:

Chang Zhan Liu (the borrower) hereby writes down this I.O.U. in borrowing from Si Jun Sze (the lender) money of 1,000 cashes for his own use. The parties agree that when it becomes Chang Zang Liu's turn in receiving the annual rent of the inherited worship farm of Hua San, the 4^th family branch, such rent will be deducted the loaned money, and the rest to be returned to Chang's family. The parties will have no other words. Therefore, this I.O.U. is set forth hereto as a proof.

Witnessed by: Uncle-in-law Ji Yi Yi
the 12^th month, the 53^rd year of Chien Lung, signed by Chang Zhan Liu

Such an loan was supposed being held by and between two relatives or friends being acquainted with each other, no interest was requested by the lender.
The I.O.U. also indicates that the borrower Chang Zhang Liu and some of his relatives jointly inherited a farm and rented it to somebody, the joint owners took turns in collecting the rents. Chang Zhang Liu was using his immature right as a leverage in borrowing the money.
As a custom in ancient China, any I.O.U. pledge agreement, and/or any agreement in connection with lease, sale and any disposition of real estates was requested to call upon a witness. This I.O.U. was so to comply without exception.

Chinese Coinage Web Site