The prefectural magistrate's wife explained that it wasn't a matter of those concubine's sons and daughters having the ability to contest her children's inheritance. As the head of the family, she was still responsible for the well-being and moral upbringing of these offspring.
Managing the numerous children of concubines was a daunting task, especially when it came to disciplining children who were not her own. While it would be manageable if these children were obedient and diligent, if they displayed immoral behavior or became profligate and unruly, it could directly affect her own children.
The magistrate's wife had suggested to the governor that the concubines use birth control methods. However, the governor appeared unwilling, citing concerns about the potential harm to his health.
The magistrate's wife believed that if there were a method of contraception that posed no harm to the body, the governor would have no objections.
