The reason Ministry of Rites hinted in this way, aside from the regulations, was due to the Emperor's suggestion.
The Emperor prepared quite a few dowries for the two princesses. No matter how much betrothal gifts the Bai Family prepared, it would all be converted into a dowry, which would exceed the limits of ceremonial protocol, and the Emperor felt this was improper.
The reason he felt guilty was naturally because a few years ago, he was scolded by Wei Zhi when arranging a marriage for his daughter. Of course, he acknowledged his mistake but just didn't change.
This time, marrying off two daughters in a row, the Emperor had the state treasury prepare a substantial dowry, just at the ceiling of the protocol limits. He added a little from his private funds, and the Empress also contributed from her dowry. Carelessly, the excess became quite significant.
