Next, Zhao Junchen talked with Zuo Lanshan about many things, but did not disclose the transaction between himself and Zhou Shangjing.
After all, Zhao Junchen had promised to win the position of Minister of Justice for Li Lide, but because of this deal, he ended up breaking his promise and getting rich.
Promises made by politicians are one of the things that cannot be believed in the world, and now Zhao Junchen has already become a qualified politician! Breaking a promise, going back on his word, breaking an appointment, etc. are not something that Zhao Junchen
It's not a big deal, but in any case, the fewer people know about this kind of thing, the better.
After the conversation, Zhao Junchen said goodbye to Zuo Lanshan and came to his sedan chair. Without waiting for Xu Qingyan to speak, he waved his hand and said: "Go back directly to the house... After returning to the house, send someone to Mr. Li Lide, the Minister of Criminal Affairs."
I sent a message to him to come see me at my house. I have something to tell him... Well, by the way, I also sent a famous invitation to Qin Huaiyuan, the young minister of Dali Temple, saying that I invited him to get together at Shangxian Tower tonight.
"
After Xu Qingyan agreed, Zhao Junchen sat in the sedan chair, took a deep breath, and closed his eyes slightly, thinking deeply.
Too many things happened today, so many and so many, one after another, that it was dizzying to see.
As a result, Zhao Junchen also needs to carefully consider the trade-off between pros and cons.
…………
In the morning meeting, Zhao Junchen and Huang Yourong "both suffered losses" in the party struggle. This was part of Zhao Junchen's plan. The follow-up plan had already been prepared and there was no need for Zhao Junchen to think more.
Then, Huang Yourong unexpectedly formed an alliance with Shen Changmao. Although this was a major event and had many subsequent impacts, it did not affect Zhao Junchen's real plan, so Zhao Junchen did not care.
But then, under the order of Emperor Deqing, the elders of the cabinet and the six ministers gathered in the Yangxin Hall to decide the successors for those vacancies in the court. Among them, the two important positions of the Minister of Punishment and the Minister of Works were
Everything fell into the hands of Zhou Shangjing's faction, which must attract Zhao Junchen's attention.
In particular, the position of Minister of the Ministry of Industry was actually taken over by Zhou Shangjing's protégé, Ye Shanghong. In addition, Ma Sen, the current left minister of the Ministry of Revenue, was also a protégé of Zhou Shangjing. As a result, Zhao Junchen's basic territory in the court was
, whether it was the Household Department Yamen or the Works Department Yamen, Zhou Shangjing had already put a nail in his head. Faced with this situation, Zhao Junchen naturally felt like he was sitting on pins and needles, with a sharp edge at his back.
But on the other hand, the official department, which Zhou Shangjing regarded as a taboo, now also has Zhao Junchen's crony Liu Changan as the minister. I am afraid that Zhou Shangjing is also gnawing at this and cannot bear it.
It can be said that under Emperor Deqing's ingenious arrangement, the forces in the DPRK and China of Zhao Junchen and Zhou Shangjing are now intertwined with each other. Conflicts of interest are inevitable. The subsequent partisan conflicts are also inevitable, but sooner or later.
However, conflict with Zhou Shangjing is by no means an easy and pleasant thing.
Unfortunately, in the officialdom, people have no choice but to do what they want. Many times, Zhao Junchen had no choice.
…………
"Now it seems that although Huang Yourong and Shen Changmao have formed an alliance, Emperor Deqing still prefers me to check and balance Zhou Shangjing. After all, I have really shown my sharpness in recent times... Speaking of which, since I returned to Beijing
Since then, he has been avoiding direct conflicts with Zhou Shangjing, but now his power in the court has become more and more powerful, and conflicts of interest with Zhou Shangjing are gradually inevitable. In addition, Emperor Deqing has been mixing sand with each other. In the future,
I'm afraid we can only be enemies rather than friends... However, the most important thing to consider at the moment is the marriage arranged by Emperor Deqing for me..."
Zhao Junchen murmured to himself while thinking secretly.
Zhao Junchen couldn't help but frown slightly when he thought about his marriage choice.
Zhao Junchen did not expect that among the marriage partners chosen by Emperor Deqing for him, there would be the Chen family of the Duke of Jing!
But Chen Luoyi, the eldest daughter of Chen You, Duke of Jing, has already married the seventh prince Zhu Hejian!
In other words, if Zhao Junchen chooses to marry the Chen family of the Duke of Jing, then he and the seventh prince Zhu Hejian will become brothers-in-law! At that time, due to various standpoints and considerations, Zhao Junchen will not hesitate on many issues, even if he has the intention to do so.
I don’t want to, but I can only choose to support the seventh prince Zhu Hejian!
During the ups and downs of the officialdom, Zhao Junchen had already become a "conspiracy theorist", believing that "there are no coincidences" and that "where interests exist, there must be conspiracy." Now the Duke of Jing, the Chen family, appeared in the presence of Emperor Deqing.
Among the names on the list, Zhao Junchen also believed that this was by no means a coincidence, and that there must be secret promotion from the seventh prince Zhu Hejian!
Obviously, this is another overture and bribe to Zhao Junchen from the Seventh Prince Zhu Hejian!
However, it was difficult for Zhao Junchen to decide whether to accept Zhu Hejian's overtures and bribes. He only felt that the pros and cons were unpredictable.
According to Zhao Junchen's next plan, after Emperor Deqing's southern tour ends, Prince Zhu Heyu will inevitably fall, and the seventh prince Zhu Hejian is likely to become the new crown prince. If Zhao Junchen chooses to marry Duke Chen
By marrying the seventh prince Zhu Hejian and becoming a brother-in-law, relying on this relationship can greatly alleviate the seventh prince Zhu Hejian's precautions and concerns about Zhao Junchen in the future, and maybe he can also take the opportunity to clear his identity.
, became an upright "direct descendant of the prince", and completely got rid of the fate of always taking the blame for the emperor and being abandoned by the emperor at any time.
This is the benefit of marrying the Chen family, Duke of Jing.
However, while the benefits are attractive, the risks are greater.
The seventh prince Zhu Hejian is definitely an egoist who is ruthless and has full control over power. If Zhao Junchen has a too close relationship with him, the interests of both parties will inevitably gradually merge. At that time, Zhu Hejian will be extremely powerful.
He may take the opportunity to join Zhao Junchen's faction. After the crown prince Zhu Heyu falls and Zhu Hejian becomes the new prince, Zhao Junchen will no longer be the only leader of the faction by virtue of his righteousness.
It is very likely that Zhu Hejian will be ignored!
People like Zuo Lanshan, Zhan Shanchang and others seem to be loyal to Zhao Junchen now, but this is only because Zhao Junchen can bring them various benefits and can also protect them in the temple. However, if they have better
I'm afraid there won't be much hesitation when abandoning Zhao Junchen!
After Zhao Junchen lost the support of factions and cronies, his influence in the court was greatly reduced. It is difficult to predict how Zhu Hejian will deal with Zhao Junchen at that time.
This is the hidden danger and disadvantage of marrying the Chen family of Duke Jing!
Therefore, Zhao Junchen was very hesitant about whether to marry the Chen family of Duke Jing.
…………
In addition to the Chen family of the Duke of Jing, the marriage options provided by Emperor Deqing to Zhao Junchen were the Su family of Su Changzhen, the governor of Southern Zhili, and the Cui family of Cui Mian, the former cabinet minister. They chose to marry these two families.
There are also pros and cons to each.
Although Su Changzhen, the governor of Southern Zhili, is old and is about to retire and return to his hometown, he has been a local feudal official for these years. His connections in various yamen cannot be underestimated, and he has always "helped relatives but not others".
If Zhao Junchen chooses to marry him, it can greatly make up for Zhao Junchen's lack of connections and heritage, and Su Changzhen will definitely do his best to help Zhao Junchen expand his power.
However, Su Changzhen is not an upright official. In terms of reputation among the government and the public, he is probably not inferior to Zhao Junchen. If he chooses to marry Su Changzhen, then Zhao Junchen will finally have a slightly improved reputation.
, I am afraid that it will fall to the bottom again, but this situation is something Zhao Junchen does not want to see.
What's more, in the officialdom, people are always in trouble. Once Su Changzhen retires and returns to his hometown, it is still unknown how much the contacts he has accumulated can help Zhao Junchen.
As for the old Cui Mian of the front cabinet, although he has no ability, he has always cherished his life and has always had a good reputation among the government and the public. He also has a good relationship with Qingliu in the court. If Zhao Junchen marries the Cui family, this front cabinet
Although Lao will not take the initiative to help Zhao Junchen, nor will it be beneficial to Zhao Junchen's expansion of power, he can also indirectly help Zhao Junchen continue to improve his reputation.
"Everyone has their pros and cons, so it's hard to make a choice. However, whether it is Chen You, the Duke of Jing, Cui Mian, the former cabinet minister, or Su Changzhen, the governor of Southern Zhili. My impression of them all just remains between the government and the public.
I haven't really had any contact with them about the rumors, so these pros and cons considerations now are a bit taken for granted. I'm afraid I have to wait until the royal banquet three days later and have real contact with them before I can make a decision..."
After carefully considering the marriage lists provided by Emperor Deqing for him one by one, Zhao Junchen sighed softly.
While sighing, Zhao Junchen's sedan suddenly stopped, and then Xu Qingyan's voice sounded outside the sedan.
"Master, we are back home."
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
After returning to the mansion, Zhao Junchen came to the study, but he had no intention of dealing with court affairs. He just continued to think about the changes in the situation in the court and his next marriage choice.
Between thoughts, time always passes by like water without realizing it.
About half an hour later, Xu Qingyan entered the study, interrupted Zhao Junchen's thoughts, and reported: "Master, according to your instructions, I have sent someone to call Mr. Li, the Minister of Punishment. He is now waiting in the living room.
, are you going to see him now?"
After hearing Xu Qingyan's words, Zhao Junchen stood up and walked towards the living room first, saying: "Of course it's time to see him now. Mr. Li has a lot to do next, and we can't let him wait any longer... By the way,
I asked you to send a famous invitation to Mr. Qin, the young minister of Dali Temple, and invite him to a banquet at Shangxian Tower tonight. Is this matter settled?"
Xu Qingyan nodded and said: "It's done. I have also sent someone to Shangxian Tower to book a quiet private room and a fine banquet. I also sent someone to deliver the name card to the residence of Lord Qin Huaiyuan, the young minister of Dali Temple.
Mr. Qin also agreed to attend the banquet."
Zhao Junchen smiled and asked: "Oh? Qin Shaoqing agreed to attend the banquet so readily? I'm afraid not?"
Xu Qingyan frowned and replied: "He was a little hesitant at first, and even made excuses, saying that he had already made arrangements for tonight, but the person we sent insisted on, and he couldn't be stubborn, so in the end he had no choice but to agree.
Come down."
As he spoke, Xu Qingyan's expression flashed with a hint of displeasure.
When Xu Qingyan thought about it, with Zhao Junchen's current status, personally inviting a mere young minister of Dali Temple to the banquet was already a huge honor, but this young minister of Dali Temple was still reluctant, which was really unreasonable.
However, Zhao Junchen looked very understanding and said quietly: "This Qin Huaiyuan is a rare centrist in the temple. His stance and attitude have always been neutral. He will not take refuge in anyone, and will never take the initiative to participate in party struggles... In
This morning in court, he was willing to tell us a few words of truth. This was his limit. In the eyes of other factions in the court, his approach was already a tendency to move closer to me. At this time, he
In order to continue to maintain his neutral position, he naturally doesn't want to contact me too much... However, now that things have happened, he can't help it anymore."
Xu Qingyan has always been full of confidence in Zhao Junchen's tricks and sneered: "It's natural, the young master can easily capture Qin Huaiyuan. Now, young master, if you want to take him for your own use, you will give him an advantage."
…………
And just as the two of them were talking, they had arrived outside the door of the living room of the Zhao Mansion.
At this time, in the living room of the Zhao Mansion, Li Lide, the Minister of Punishment, was sitting in the guest seat, looking full of thoughts and worrying about gains and losses.
Li Lide naturally heard about the matter that Emperor Deqing summoned the elders of the cabinet and the six ministers to discuss today, and he could also guess the reason.
Now that the meeting had just ended, Zhao Junchen summoned him to the mansion for a meeting. Li Lide thought that he must have come because of the vacancy of the Minister of Punishment.
Zhao Junchen has already promised to win for him the position of Minister of the Ministry of Justice. If this comes true, it will be like a step to the top for Li Lide, which can save him more than ten years of hard work! But if the fight fails, then Li Lide and these
The higher the expectations in the past days, the greater the disappointment that will follow. At this time, Li Lide is naturally worried about gains and losses, and feels uneasy.
Fortunately, the answer Zhao Junchen brought, although not what he expected most, was not the worst either.
Seeing Zhao Junchen appear outside the living room door, Li Lide hurriedly stood up to respond, but before he could salute Zhao Junchen, Zhao Junchen had already supported his arms.
Then, Li Lide heard Zhao Junchen sigh.
And with this sigh, Li Lide's heart sank.
Then, Zhao Junchen's apology sounded in Li Lide's ears: "Master Li, I'm sorry, I promised to win the position of Shangshu of the Ministry of Justice for you. However, due to obstruction from other factions, I am afraid it will take several years to refuse this promise.
Achieved."
Li Lide was full of disappointment, but he did not dare to show it in front of Zhao Junchen. After being helped up by Zhao Junchen, he just smiled bitterly and said: "This is not to blame Mr. Zhao, it is really that he is too junior to serve in the Ministry of Punishment in the past few years.
I don’t have any great achievements, so I never dare to have too many hopes.”
After a pause, he thought that he would continue to serve in the Ministry of Punishment in the future, and he also needed to know his immediate boss in advance, so Li Lide asked again: "Master Zhao, I don't know who finally got the position of Minister of the Ministry of Punishment? Another one
Can the vacancy of Minister of Justice be filled?"
Zhao Junchen sighed again: "Zhang Bochong, a disciple of Zhou Shangjing, the former Chief Minister of Shandong, became the new Shangshu of the Ministry of Punishment, and the position of Zuo Shilang of the Ministry of Punishment was taken by Lin Chengze, a disciple of Shen Changmao and the former Inspector General of Henan. ...Hey, originally I thought that while Feng Po was still the Minister of the Ministry of Justice, you could seize the time to make some political achievements and integrate the officials from the Yamen of the Ministry of Justice into your hands. By then, you would be the only one to succeed the Minister of the Ministry of Justice. candidate, but I didn’t expect that His Majesty would suddenly ask Feng Po to retire and return to his hometown. After all, your current qualifications and achievements are slightly insufficient. As a result, all the factions in the court are opposed, and I can’t help you. too much."
After hearing Zhao Junchen's answer, Li Lide's expression became even more bitter.
Over the years, although Li Lide was the Minister of Punishment, he had been suppressed by Yan Pengfei, another Minister of Punishment. Now he finally defeated Yan Pengfei, but he did not expect that Zhang Bochong and Lin Chengze would come again...
As far as Li Lide knows, Zhang Bochong and Lin Chengze are not good enemies, and they are both more difficult to deal with than Yan Pengfei. In the future, Li Lide's situation in the Criminal Department will probably be even more unbearable.
Thinking of this, Li Lide sighed: "Zhang Bochong, Lin Chengze...With these two people, I'm afraid it will be even more difficult for Xia Guan in the Ministry of Justice in the future..."
Zhao Junchen was "slightly startled", and seemed to have just remembered something, and said: "About this, it is not your turn to worry about Mr. Li. That is what Mr. Qin Huaiyuan will worry about next. Although I can't do anything for you Winning the position of Shangshu of the Ministry of Punishments is not a total loss. After Zhang Boxhong took over as Shangshu of the Ministry of Punishments, I helped you win the vacant position of Shandong Chief Envoy."
After a pause, he glanced at the surprise on Li Lide's expression, and Zhao Junchen said with a smile: "In this way, although you will not be the Minister of the Ministry of Justice, you will also be a local feudal official, and you will be promoted from the third rank to the second rank. Taste."
As he spoke, Zhao Junchen spoke firmly and added: "Since I have promised to fight for the position of Shangshu for you, I will not break my promise. You also understand the rules of the Jin Dynasty in my Ming Dynasty. If you want to become the Shangshu, After all, you will inevitably need to practice at the local level for several years. Although it will be delayed for a few years when you make some political achievements at the local level in the future, you will definitely have a seat among the six ministers."
Either promote first and then suppress, or suppress first and then promote. Even if the same thing is expressed in two different ways, different effects will always be obtained.
If Zhao Junchen had said directly after meeting Li Lide, "Although I won the position of Shandong Chief Envoy for you, the position of Minister of the Ministry of Punishment has fallen into the hands of others." With such promotion first and then suppression, in Li Lide's heart, even a little There is comfort, but I'm afraid there will be more disappointment.
However, Zhao Junchen first explained that he had failed to secure the position of Minister of the Ministry of Justice for Li Lide. After waiting for Li Lide to completely lose his mind, he then stated that he had secured the position of Chief Envoy of Shandong for him. After suppressing first and then rising, Li Lide's mood at this time was filled with surprises.
Zhao Junchen's approach was obviously correct. After hearing what Zhao Junchen said, Li Lide was stunned at first. Then he was overjoyed.
In a certain sense, although the position of chief envoy is far away from the center of the capital city, as a local feudal official, the pleasure of making decisions with one word and playing a decisive role cannot be satisfied by the position of minister.
Therefore, although he failed to get the expected Minister of Justice, Li Lide was still full of surprises. He thanked Zhao Junchen repeatedly, and his original dissatisfaction with Zhao Junchen for failing to fulfill his promise disappeared immediately.
In the face of Li Lide's repeated thanks, Zhao Junchen naturally couldn't help being polite. After all the talk about the situation, Zhao Junchen and Li Lide finally took their seats respectively.
Then, Zhao Junchen explained to Li Lide in detail the scene in the Yangxin Hall today, as well as the successor candidates for the vacancies in the court.
After hearing Zhao Junchen's explanation, Li Lide's thoughts were almost the same as Zhao Junchen's. He frowned and analyzed: "Sir, you are saying that not only the position of Minister of the Ministry of Justice was obtained by Zhou Shangjing's group, but also the position of Minister of the Ministry of Industry was obtained by Zhou Shangjing's group.
Did the doorman Ye Shanghong get it? This is not good! In addition to the current Minister of Household Affairs Ma Sen, the key yamen now in our hands, whether it is the Ministry of Industry or the Ministry of Household Affairs, already have people assigned by Zhou Shangjing, plus
Master Liu Changan is currently serving in the Ministry of Civil Affairs, and our forces and those of Zhou Shangjing are so mixed with each other that there may be conflicts in the future."
After careful consideration before, Zhao Junchen has now sorted out his thoughts, but he is not as worried as Li Lide. He said with a smile: "Although Zhou Shangjing's schemes and methods are terrible, I am not afraid of him. Since he is destined to have
If there is a conflict, then it is better to find ways to deal with each other. In fact, this situation is much better than the two sides being enemies and friends, and being ambiguous. At least the positions of both sides are clear, so that the enemies and friends are not unclear. As for Zhou Shangjing’s placement in the Ministry of Household Affairs and
I already have a way to deal with those two nails in the Ministry of Works, and you don’t have to worry about it since you have to take up a local post."
At this point, Zhao Junchen changed the topic and said: "However, now I need your help in another matter."
"I don't know what's going on? Just ask Mr. Zhao for instructions."
"After you become the Chief Envoy of Shandong, your original business operations in the Ministry of Justice will inevitably be divided up by Zhou Shangjing and Shen Changmao. This is something I don't want to see. So I plan to recruit Qin Huaiyuan, the newly appointed right minister of the Ministry of Justice.
For your own use, so that your operations in the Criminal Department can be maintained, and the influence of our faction in the Three Laws Division will not be greatly reduced. But if we want Qin Huaiyuan to be willing to join us, we still need Mr. Li to speak on the side.
item."
Li Lide suddenly realized, and couldn't help but admire Zhao Junchen's thoughtfulness, and quickly responded: "Master Zhao is saying that I will try my best to advocate for you, but I don't know what your plans and arrangements are for this? When will we meet with you?"
Meet Mr. Qin?"
Zhao Junchen raised his head and looked at the sky outside the living room door, but saw that the sun was already setting. He smiled and said, "I have asked him to meet at Shangxian Building tonight. It's almost time. Let's go now."
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
On the way, Zhao Junchen and Li Lide abandoned their sedan chairs and rode in a carriage together, taking the opportunity to discuss matters in the carriage.
In the carriage, Zhao Junchen carefully told Li Lide what he needed to pay attention to after he went to Shandong, and the importance of these things for Zhao Junchen's group to accumulate contacts and foundation. Naturally, Li Lide did not dare to neglect Zhao Junchen's instructions and took them all seriously.
Keep it in mind.
After everything was discussed, the carriage arrived at the door of Shangxian Tower.
Because they had booked private rooms and banquets in advance, the shopkeepers and waiters of Shangxian Building had been waiting for them for a long time. When they saw Zhao Junchen and Li Lide appear, they all greeted them with fawning faces.
Zhao Junchen often comes to Shangxian Tower and is acquainted with the shopkeeper of Shangxian Tower. After getting off the carriage, he didn't say much nonsense and just asked: "Dali Temple Young Master Qin Huaiyuan, Lord Qin, is he here?"
The shopkeeper nodded repeatedly and said, "In response to Mr. Zhao, Mr. Qin has just arrived and is now waiting in the private room upstairs."
As he spoke, the shopkeeper couldn't help but feel strange.
The news of Qin Huaiyuan's promotion to the Minister of Justice will have to wait until tomorrow morning to be announced at the court meeting. Except for a few people, the government and the public have not received the news yet. In the eyes of the shopkeeper, Qin Huaiyuan is still only a fourth-grade young minister of Dali Temple.
, both Zhao Junchen and Li Lide have higher official ranks than him.
Now that Zhao Junchen and Li Lide have appeared, Qin Huaiyuan should at least wait downstairs to greet them, but Qin Huaiyuan only waits in the private room, which inevitably loses respect and etiquette. Aren't they afraid of the hearts of Zhao Junchen and Li Lide?
Displeased and secretly retaliating?
Although the shopkeeper of Shangxian Building felt strange, Zhao Junchen and Li Lide could understand Qin Huaiyuan's thoughts - Qin Huaiyuan was worried that too many people would see him with Zhao Junchen and mistakenly think that he had really taken refuge with Zhao Junchen.
They were trying to avoid suspicion - so they were not surprised. They just looked at each other, smiled together, and then walked towards Shangxian Building together.
…………
After being led to the second floor of Shangxian Building by the shopkeeper, Zhao Junchen looked up and saw Qin Huaiyuan waiting outside the private room with his head bowed.
Qin Huaiyuan also knew that it was disrespectful to wait here, so after seeing Zhao Junchen and Li Lide, he quickly apologized and said: "I only knew about the arrival of Zhao Shangshu and Li Shilang. I missed the welcome from afar. I still hope that you two will come."
My lord, please forgive me, please forgive me."
After hearing what Qin Huaiyuan said, the shopkeeper of Shangxian Building opened his mouth to speak, but in the end he lowered his head and said nothing - in fact, he saw Zhao Junchen's carriage appearing on the street from a distance. He sent a clerk to notify Qin Huaiyuan.
Qin Huaiyuan's words were obviously shirking responsibility, but the shopkeeper of Shangxianlou did not dare to offend Qin Huaiyuan, so he could only remain silent and eat Coptis chinensis.
Zhao Junchen waved and smiled: "It doesn't matter. We have a deep friendship as colleagues in the DPRK and China. Now we are just getting together in private, so you don't need to worry about these etiquettes."
Li Lide also nodded and said with a smile: "Yes, we are all our own people, Master Qin, there is no need to be polite."
Hearing the word "one of our own" from Li Lide, Qin Huaiyuan's expression changed slightly, but he did not answer. He just extended his hand to invite Zhao Junchen and Li Lide into the private room to talk.
After the three people entered the private room and sat down, they did not talk about the main topic at first, but were polite to each other. It was not until the dishes were served and all the shopkeepers in Shangxian Building left that Zhao Junchen picked up the wine glass and said with a smile: "
I invited Mr. Qin to a banquet at Shangxian Tower today for three reasons."
Qin Huaiyuan said quickly: "Please give me some advice, Master Shangshu."
Zhao Junchen saluted the wine glass in his hand towards Qin Huaiyuan and said: "The first reason is to thank Mr. Qin for your upright speech in the morning today. If Mr. Qin hadn't told you what Yan Pengfei and Liu Quan'an were doing,
I am afraid that I will be framed today due to my coercive remarks during the trial. In this case, Mr. Qin, you have been a great kindness to me, so naturally I must express my gratitude."
What exactly happened in the morning this morning? Others don’t know the inside story, but Qin Huaiyuan can guess a little. How dare he accept Zhao Junchen’s "thank you"? He quickly waved his hand and said: "Master Shangshu, you are serious! The so-called Qing people
Ziqing, even if you don't have me, my lord, those young people will never be able to frame you in the slightest. What's more, the official is just telling the truth, so how can you really dare to take credit? My lord, you are really exaggerating."
Zhao Junchen smiled and did not refute, but drank the wine in one gulp. Seeing Zhao Junchen like this, Qin Huaiyuan did not dare to neglect, and he quickly drank too.
Li Lide on the side helped the two of them fill up the wine glasses again.
Then, Zhao Junchen picked up the wine glass again and said: "As for the second reason, Mr. Li Lide has been trusted by His Majesty and recommended by his own officials. Now he has been promoted to the post of Chief Envoy of Shandong, so he took advantage of the opportunity
This opportunity is also to express my congratulations to Mr. Li."
Qin Huaiyuan is a centrist. He has no friends or backers in the court, and naturally he is not well-informed. He does not know about the discussion between the elders of the cabinet and the six ministers this afternoon in the Yangxin Hall, let alone Li Lide's promotion to the governor of Shandong.
After hearing Zhao Junchen say this about the envoy's news, he couldn't help but be shocked.
Then, with a little envy, Qin Huaiyuan also quickly raised his wine glass, paid respect to Li Lide like Zhao Junchen, and said: "Congratulations to Mr. Li. Although there is only one level difference between the third grade and the second grade, there are many differences.
Even if officials have been in business for more than ten years, they are still unable to get promoted. Now that Mr. Li has been promoted to the Chief Envoy of Shandong, he does not know how many people will envy him. It is just around the corner to return to the center of the imperial court and serve as the six ministers in the future. "
Li Lide raised his wine glass in return, but glanced at Zhao Junchen again, half-smiling but not smiling, and hinted: "Haha. I have Mr. Zhao's protection and support in the court, but this thing is nothing, nothing.
"
After the three of them had another drink, Zhao Junchen did not say the third reason, but just looked at Qin Huaiyuan with a smile.
On the contrary, Li Lide suddenly changed the subject and asked Qin Huaiyuan: "Speaking of which, how old is Mr. Qin now?"
Qin Huaiyuan was slightly startled. But he still replied: "I have wasted my time and wasted my time. This year is already three out of four. I am two years older than Mr. Li. Unfortunately, my achievements are far inferior to Mr. Li. Of course, with Zhao
Adults can't even be compared."
Li Lide looked like he felt sorry for Qin Huaiyuan. He sighed: "With Master Qin's talent, at such an age, he is still just a young minister of Dali Temple. It is really a bit unfair. However, in my opinion, this is also true.
Mr. Qin, the reason is that you have been an official in the court for many years, and you have always been left alone. No one can support you, so your promotion has naturally been much slower."
Qin Huaiyuan could naturally understand Li Lide's hint, but he did not answer, just remained silent.
In fact, Qin Huaiyuan is not unaware of the principle that "it is easier to get promoted if you have a backer". However, Qin Huaiyuan has always been unwilling to participate in party struggles. Although promotion will be slower without a backer, at least he can live a stable life.
Seeing that Qin Huaiyuan was just silent, Li Lide's eyes flashed with a hint of displeasure, but his expression remained gentle and polite: "But, although Mr. Qin, your temper has become a little more withdrawn, and no one has helped you over the years, Mr. Zhao has
I have always admired Mr. Qin's talents. He has said to me more than once that as long as there is an opportunity in the future, he will never wrong Mr. Qin. Mr. Zhao is a person who loves talents and keeps his word. Today we are here
The third reason for getting together is to congratulate Mr. Qin on your promotion."
"Promotion? Me?" Qin Huaiyuan couldn't help but be stunned.
Zhao Junchen nodded with a smile, raised his glass for the third time, and said: "Today you and I are gathered here. The third reason is to congratulate Mr. Qin on your promotion. Today I recommend Mr. Li Lide to your Majesty."
After serving as the Chief Envoy of Shandong, Mr. Li's original position as the Right Minister of the Ministry of Justice was vacant. Then I recommended to Your Majesty, Mr. Qin, that you take over the position of the Minister of Justice. Your Majesty also agreed and will wait until tomorrow morning to announce it.
From now on, Mr. Qin, you will be the minister of punishment of the third rank of Zhongzheng. I am here to congratulate Mr. Qin in advance."
Li Lide also smiled and said: "Mr. Qin, you were envious of my quick promotion just now, but when I was promoted from the third grade to the second grade, it was only one level. But Mr. Qin, after you got the recommendation from Mr. Zhao, you
He was promoted from the fourth grade to the third grade, two levels in one breath, but it was much faster than me! Mr. Qin, you can have this opportunity, why don't you thank Mr. Zhao for your recommendation?"
Hearing Zhao Junchen and Li Lide singing together, Qin Huaiyuan didn't know whether he should be happy or sad for a moment!
It was certainly his dream to be promoted from the fourth rank of the Young Minister of Dali Temple to the third rank of the Minister of Justice.
However, in the early morning, he just helped Zhao Junchen speak for him, and the next day he was promoted on Zhao Junchen's recommendation. In the eyes of all the officials in the court, they would definitely think that Qin Huaiyuan had taken refuge in Zhao Junchen!
Next, if Qin Huaiyuan wants to defend himself and reiterate his neutral position, it will probably be even more difficult.
Although his mood was complicated, Qin Huaiyuan still thanked Zhao Junchen and said: "Thank you Mr. Zhao for your recommendation and promotion. I will never forget you as a subordinate!"
Zhao Junchen still smiled and said: "You're welcome, everyone will be one of our own from now on."
However, although he also knew that he would be regarded as a friend of Zhao Junchen by all officials in the court, Qin Huaiyuan hesitated for a moment and still did not give a clear answer when he heard Zhao Junchen's words "one of his own".
After all, he couldn't make up his mind to join Zhao Junchen!
Next, at the banquet, while changing cups and cups, Zhao Junchen and Li Lide hinted at Qin Huaiyuan many words and promised Qin Huaiyuan many benefits, but Qin Huaiyuan did not let go from beginning to end, as if he had already made up his mind.
Determined never to take refuge in Zhao Junchen.
Gradually, anger flashed in Li Lide's eyes, and he felt that Qin Huaiyuan did not know how to praise him.
However, just when Li Lide wanted to rebuke him outright, he restrained himself under Zhao Junchen's hint.
Faced with Qin Huaiyuan's avoidance, Zhao Junchen still looked calm and gentle, seemingly unworried. Li Lide was convinced of Zhao Junchen's methods. Seeing Zhao Junchen's expression, he knew that Zhao Junchen must have something else.
Means. Don't be afraid of not being able to conquer Qin Huaiyuan.
But what disappointed Li Lide was that until the end of the banquet, Zhao Junchen did not use other methods, as if he had acquiesced in Qin Huaiyuan's uncooperative attitude.
However, after the banquet, Zhao Junchen seemed extremely enthusiastic and insisted that Qin Huaiyuan ride in his carriage. He personally sent Qin Huaiyuan back home.
Faced with Zhao Junchen's stubbornness, Qin Huaiyuan could not persist and had no choice but to agree.
However, after getting on the carriage and chatting with Zhao Junchen and Li Lide in the carriage, Qin Huaiyuan did not realize that the carriage did not drive directly towards his mansion, but took a long detour for some reason.
When the carriage passed Tianhai Tower, it suddenly stopped.
Then, Xu Qingyan's voice sounded outside the carriage.
"Master, I saw Mr. Huang Yourong, Mr. Huang Ge, Mr. Shen Changmao, Mr. Zhang, and Mr. Lin Weilin, the Minister of Rites, outside the Tianhai Tower in front. Should we stop and say hello?"
Upon hearing Xu Qingyan's request, Qin Huaiyuan's expression suddenly changed.
Li Lide, on the other hand, smiled knowingly and finally understood Zhao Junchen's plan.
It turns out that although the two elders Huang Yourong and Shen Changmao formed an alliance today, it was only the decision of the two of them, and their cronies and disciples were not involved.
So. Tonight in the evening, officials from the two factions, led by two pavilion elders, gathered for a banquet in Tianhai Tower. Firstly, it was an alliance ceremony. Secondly, it was also for the officials from the two factions to get to know each other. From now on, they can Happy to work with.
When Zhao Junchen's carriage passed by Tianhai Tower, the party had just dispersed - in fact, Zhao Junchen passed by here at the right time - so he happened to meet Huang Yourong, Shen Changmao and others outside Tianhai Tower. .
After hearing Xu Qingyan's request, Zhao Junchen said without waiting for Qin Huaiyuan's reply: "Mr. Huang Ge, Mr. Shen Ge, they are superior officials and seniors. How can they pass by without saying hello? Stop the car and let Mr. Li and I, Master Qin, please say hello to the two pavilion elders together."
On the other side, Li Lide also took Qin Huaiyuan's arm and said with a smile: "This is exactly the reason. Mr. Qin, you and I can go with Mr. Zhao."
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Although Huang Yourong, Shen Changmao and others did not recognize Zhao Junchen's carriage, they could still recognize Xu Qingyan who was driving the carriage outside and knew that Xu Qingyan was Zhao Junchen's long-term attendant.
Therefore, when Zhao Junchen's carriage stopped, they also knew that Zhao Junchen would appear, so they all waited with different expressions.
When Zhao Junchen, Li Lide, and the reluctant Qin Huaiyuan got off the carriage, led by Huang Yourong and Shen Changmao, many officials from the two groups focused their attention on Qin Huaiyuan.
First, Qin Huaiyuan went to the court to speak for Zhao Junchen in the morning, then in the afternoon Zhao Junchen recommended Qin Huaiyuan to Emperor Deqing, and now Zhao Junchen and Qin Huaiyuan appeared together... All these things, in the eyes of officials from Huang Yourong and Shen Changmao, Come on, Qin Huaiyuan must have taken refuge with Zhao Junchen.
Among them, many officials under Huang Yourong's sect looked at Qin Huaiyuan even more at this time, thinking that if it were not for Qin Huaiyuan's words in the morning, Yan Pengfei and Liu Quan'an would not have been detained for interrogation. Hate.
Under the gaze of everyone, Qin Huaiyuan felt like he was sweating like rain.
"Your Majesty Zhao Junchen, I have met Mr. Huang Ge, Mr. Shen Ge, and all my colleagues." However, Zhao Junchen's expression did not change and he just said hello politely.
Huang Yourong still looked like a smiling tiger, but his eyes became colder: "Oh? Zhao Shangshu is also having dinner outside? What a coincidence... Huh? Qin Shaoqing is also together? Oh, Qin Shaoqing should be called Qin Shilang now. It turns out that Qin Shilang and Qin Shaoqing are together. The relationship between Zhao Shangshu and Zhao Shangshu is so close, no wonder Zhao Shangshu will strongly recommend it to His Majesty this afternoon... No wonder..."
When it came to the end, Huang Yourong's voice became extremely cold.
On the other side, Shen Changmao frowned and looked at Qin Huaiyuan for a few times, but said nothing and just snorted coldly.
…………
After greeting Huang Yourong, Shen Changmao and others, Zhao Junchen took Qin Huaiyuan and Li Lide back to the carriage.
Just as he entered the carriage, Qin Huaiyuan suddenly handed over to Zhao Junchen and said in a solemn voice: "From now on, Xianguan will advance and retreat with Mr. Zhao. Mr. Zhao is the only one who is following his lead. I hope that Mr. Zhao can take more care of me in the future."
Qin Huaiyuan has figured it out. Now, in the eyes of hundreds of officials in the court, especially Huang Yourong and Shen Changmao, he has taken refuge in Zhao Junchen. He will inevitably face suppression and revenge. If he If you don't take refuge with Zhao Junchen at this time, but reject Zhao Junchen thousands of miles away, you will probably offend Zhao Junchen again!
At that time, he was under the combined pressure of Zhao Junchen, Huang Yourong, and Shen Changmao, and no one could protect him. He was afraid that he would die without a burial place!
In this way, he could only really take refuge in Zhao Junchen. At least he would not have to worry about the subsequent suppression and retaliation, and could gain temporary stability!
So, he has no choice!
After hearing Qin Huaiyuan's words, Zhao Junchen smiled happily and said: "We are all our own people, and everything is as it should be."
On the other side, Li Lide took out a contract from his sleeve - which Zhao Junchen had given him in advance - and handed it to Qin Huaiyuan, also smiling: "From now on, we will treat it as one of our own. This is ours." The contract is Mr. Zhao's "Yerongfang" shares. All officials in the court who are close to Mr. Zhao have a share. Now that Mr. Qin has become one of his own, it is naturally the same. I hope Mr. Qin will keep it well. "
At this point, Li Lide's tone increased and he added: "From now on, Mr. Qin will understand that as long as you follow Mr. Zhao, the benefits will not end there!"
Qin Huaiyuan has naturally heard about how profitable "Yue Rong Fang" is - today's "Yue Rong Fang" has opened all over the north of the river, earning thousands of taels of silver every day.
Now seeing Li Lide handing over the share contract to him, and hearing Li Lide's hint, Qin Huaiyuan, who originally felt forced and wronged, suddenly felt that maybe taking refuge in Zhao Junchen was not so unacceptable.
…………
PS: I have been thinking about the character and plot of the heroine these days, and I have also referred to many famous works. Then I hesitated for a long time between "the plot that everyone likes" and "the plot that I want to write", and finally chose "the plot that I want to write". "Plot", after all, if you can't even accept what you write, how can you make readers like it?