| The local administrators must have occupied an ambiguous place in local society. On the one hand, they could-- and most likely did-- manage the flow of information in ways that reduced the burden on their townsfolk, and placed them in the best possible light. But there would be no avoiding the reality that they also were accomodating the conquerors, and it is unlikely that the first response of their neighbors would be gratitude for whatever relief they managed to arrange. After all, there would be the highly obvious marks of distinction and privilege that they enjoyed to undercut any sense that the local official was acting for the benefit of the town. And yet when the central authorities were not pleased with the speed, amount, or quality of tribute good production, the same local officials would be the first to feel the effects of their displeasure.
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