Abstract: Ouyang Xiu (1007-1072), a famous writer historian, statesman and one of Eight Celebrities of “Tang and Song” in the Northern Song Dynasty, throughout his life not only achieved remarkable achievements in literature and history, but also in the politics. Xiu patrolled Hedong for only six months from April to October in the Qingli Fourth year, but he lived up to the mission: not only determined to retain Lin state institution, but also tried to reduce redundant soldiers and costs. To reduce the burden on the people, he recommended elites, rectified control of officers, strengthened arms, and made great contributions to easing the social conflicts and consolidating the border.

Key words: the Northern Song Dynasty, the Qingli Fourth year, Ouyang Xiu, patrol, Hedong