This Sogdian letter written c.313 is from Miwnay, destitute in Dunhuang, to her merchant husband Nanaidhat. Written at a time of famine and war after the collapse of Chinese central government, the once well-to-do Miwnay has become a servant of the Chinese and her daughter Shayn — who has added a postscript — guards flocks of domestic animals. Miwnay complains that her husband never answers letters or sends money. She writes: 'I obeyed your command and came to Dunhuang and did not observe my mother’s bidding … I would rather be a dog's or a pig's wife than yours!'
Ink on paper
The British Library, Or.8212/98 (T.XII.a.ll.3)