Book excerpt: A new translation of the 1894 chronicle by a high-ranking official from the Nan kingdom, a once-powerful principality whose territory encompassed all of what is now northwestern Laos and neighboring portions of China, in addition to the present province of Nan in Thailand. It details the history of the principality, the legendary origins of the Nan River Valley, the rituals and customs of the Nan, the moral duties of the ruler, and royal genealogy. A fascinating portrait of Thai history and culture.