 Eunuchs gained unprecedented power over state affairs during the Ming dynasty . One of the most effective means of control was the secret service stationed in what was called the Eastern Depot at the beginning of the dynasty , later the Western Depot . This secret service was overseen by the Directorate of Ceremonial , hence this state organ 's often totalitarian affiliation . Eunuchs had ranks that were equivalent to civil service ranks , only theirs had four grades instead of nine . 
