“Master Gu, this trip of yours has truly been arduous and meritorious. By rights, today I should have reserved Tongqing Tower, the largest restaurant in Jiangning City, to welcome you with a cleansing feast and celebration combined. But that young master Li from the Beijing merchants has already monopolized Tongqing Tower for nearly a month now. Such a grand restaurant has become the back kitchen for the Beijing merchants,” Peng Haiwan said with indignation.

No sooner had Gu Pingyuan stepped through the door than he heard Peng Haiwan grumbling. Upon careful inquiry, he learned that Li Qin had specially come several days ago to buy a batch of fine tea that had just arrived from Huizhou, only to dump it all into Xuanwu Lake, claiming he was using lake water to brew tea soup for the turtles, shrimp, and crabs to drink.

“Tell me, isn’t this deliberately wasting things and insulting our Shunde Tea House in the process?”

Gu Pingyuan didn’t get angry, saying mildly, “That money of his was skimmed from the dike construction funds, so naturally he can throw it into the water to hear it splash.” He suddenly had an inspiration. “Manager Peng, why don’t you find a dozen or so idlers to go to Xuanwu Lake’s edge to fetch water for boiling, claiming that this lake water carries tea fragrance and from now on they’ll only drink this lake water.”

“Hey, that’s a brilliant idea! There are plenty of idlers in Jiangning City now. Ten coppers can hire two of them. If we hire several hundred people daily to drink water, it’ll surely become known throughout the city. That Li Qin spent big money to polish our signboard – if he finds out, won’t his nose get crooked with anger?”

Gu Pingyuan then asked about the restaurant monopolization matter. It turned out that Li Qin had returned to Jiangning with great enthusiasm a month ago, originally planning to report the completion of the sea dike construction to the Governor-General’s office in person. Unexpectedly, Zeng Guofan was not in the city but had departed for Jiangxi. This was because the Jiangxi Provincial Governor had reported discovering the whereabouts of Hong Tianguifu, Hong Xiuquan’s only son, in the mountains. This was the biggest fish that escaped the Taiping net. Although young, he could be used by remaining rebels as a banner to attempt a comeback. Zeng Guofan deeply understood the gravity of this situation and hurriedly rushed to Jiangxi overnight with Bao Chao and his staff.

Li Qin was extremely disappointed. Fortunately, Li Wantang had already gone to inspect salt shops throughout the Two Jiang provinces, while Mrs. Li, who had arrived in Jiangning earlier, kept to herself, at most calling two Kunqu opera performers to stage short plays in the courtyard for entertainment.

The courtyard couldn’t compare to a proper stage, so they could only perform small-scale literary plays. The singing would go on for half a day with its drawn-out melodies. After Li Qin accompanied his mother watching opera for two days, drowsy all day long, he excused himself on business pretenses and ran out. Being young and fond of excitement, with over a hundred thousand taels of silver saved from the dike construction in hand, he simply brought several subordinates to wander around. After causing a commotion at Shunde Tea House wasn’t enough to satisfy him, he kept thinking of making a big splash in Jiangning City.

When a wealthy young master wants to spend money, naturally people help him devise schemes. Someone suggested he go to Tongqing Tower by Xuanwu Lake and rent both upper and lower floors entirely. The lower floor would serve continuous banquets – anyone who shouted toward the upper floor “Thank Young Master Li for the meal” could sit down and eat. Though the food was just ordinary stir-fries, in the famine-stricken Jiangnan region, this was no less than King Zhou’s wine pools and meat forests. Every day, the street below Tongqing Tower was packed with crowds, voices rising like thunder. Those who couldn’t squeeze in would shout at the top of their lungs “Thank Young Master Li for the meal,” creating an uproarious din.

The local government naturally had to intervene, so someone else advised Li Qin to simply compile a list of all the officials, big and small, in Jiangning City. Each would receive a daily invitation in the name of the Beijing merchant Li family, inviting them to drink and make merry at Tongqing Tower.

The Li family was wealthy and powerful. Especially after successfully handling the military expenses without requiring reimbursement, Li Wantang’s abilities were spoken of as godlike. People said he had deep connections in both the Grand Council and the palace – as long as you could reach him, there was nothing that couldn’t be accomplished.

Officials most valued connections, especially the ability to establish relationships with Beijing bigwigs. This was like opening a shortcut to career advancement. Since the Li family was so well-connected, naturally everyone flocked to this path. So even Li Qin hadn’t expected so many officials would be willing to associate with the Li family. Daily, more officials came to Tongqing Tower to pay their respects with a “long admired your reputation” than those waiting at the Governor-General’s office for appointments and assignments. Even the prefectural magistrate specially came to attend a banquet. When the street patrol officers and Military Commissioner’s soldiers saw that even officials from their own offices were attending banquets here, far from intervening, they had to maintain order at the street corners.

This truly brought tremendous face. Li Qin had originally planned to host banquets for just three days and nights, but seeing the endless stream of people and the constant flow of officials, his spirits soared. He simply announced he would host guests for a full month. This became the top news in Jiangning City. People said if you didn’t know the way, no matter – see who looked hungry and walked hurriedly, they must be heading to Tongqing Tower; see who was burping contentedly after a full meal, they must have just returned from Tongqing Tower.

Gu Pingyuan stood at a distance and looked up slightly. Below Tongqing Tower was still packed with crowds. With limited tables and chairs and the kitchen overwhelmed, they let in one batch of people every half hour. Those waiting grew impatient – besides urging loudly, they all shouted “Thank Young Master Li for the meal!” in succession, the sound never ceasing.

Peng Haiwan winked: “Master, listen – doesn’t it sound like someone’s funeral, originally unfilial but forcing themselves to wail loudly?” Liu Heita chuckled: “It’s hard on him listening for a month without getting sick of it.”

“That’s exactly the style he wants – otherwise how could he display his young master status?” Gu Pingyuan also found it distasteful, frowning slightly. “I was planning to ask him something, but with so many people around, it’s inconvenient to speak.”

“Brother Gu, this kid might just be the mastermind who sent people to kill you before. Are we here to demand an explanation?” Liu Heita’s eyes showed excitement.

“That incident wasn’t his doing.” Gu Pingyuan was certain. “I want to discuss the dike construction with him.”

“The dike construction? Isn’t it all finished? What’s there to discuss?” Liu Heita asked in confusion.

“Do you remember his bamboo cage dike? I don’t know whose idea it was – appearing clever but actually harming the local people. Forget lasting three to five years; in my opinion, if it can hold for a year and a half, that would already be quite good.”

“That dike looked quite solid too. Though it’s narrow, surely it won’t collapse in just one year?” Liu Heita said doubtfully. Having also worked on the dike construction for several months, he understood it fairly well and felt this seemed excessive.

Gu Pingyuan shook his head, his face showing great worry. Just then, melodious music drifted down from Tongqing Tower’s second floor.

“This tune sounds quite pleasant,” Liu Heita said. Not knowing music, he only found the sound melodious and pleasing.

Peng Haiwan sneered: “The tune sounds good, but it costs plenty too. This ‘Eight Sounds Concert’ plays continuously all day. I heard it costs five hundred taels of silver daily – imagine how much that is for a month.”

“What’s called Eight Sounds Concert?”

“Just fancy tricks.” The so-called Eight Sounds Concert involved eight people sitting in a circle, each holding stringed or wind instruments, using them alternately. For instance, one person playing the pipa would tune the strings for the person on their right playing the erhu, while the erhu player would accompany the person on their right playing the yangqin. The yangqin player would use their right hand to pull strings for the person playing the sanxian, while the sanxian player would play the flute with their mouth. Following this pattern, each person served two instruments.

“It’s extremely ingenious, but in this time after Jiangnan’s great calamity, with corpses everywhere from starvation, throwing away thousands of gold on such things shows complete heartlessness. Yet they’re also giving out food downstairs, earning the reputation of ‘Great Philanthropist Li’ – it’s truly infuriating and detestable.”

“Are there also foreigners upstairs?” Gu Pingyuan caught sight of a blonde, blue-eyed face chatting and laughing at the best riverside table.

Nothing in Jiangning City escaped Peng Haiwan’s knowledge. With just one glance, he said: “That’s not unusual – there’s even a foreign woman there, dressed with exposed chest and back, also drinking upstairs. I heard that foreign man is her husband, actually bringing his wife along – truly shameless. They say this foreigner is called Richard, from a Shanghai trading house. He helped Young Master Li build the sea dike and was invited to Jiangning City as an honored guest.”

“Richard?” Gu Pingyuan thought briefly and remembered, looking closely to confirm the familiar face. “Foreigners all look similar, so I didn’t recognize him immediately – turns out he’s an old acquaintance.” This Richard was the foreign merchant who had first stolen Gu Pingyuan’s business, then helped investigate the insider trading between the East India Company and the Li family in Shanghai. Gu Pingyuan remembered he did independent business – he wondered why he had joined a trading house.

Just as Gu Pingyuan was about to leave with his people, a voice called from behind: “Brother Gu, don’t go, don’t go! Look who I am.”

As soon as the voice reached his ears, Gu Pingyuan recognized it and turned around in surprise and delight: “Brother Hao!”

It was indeed Secretary Hao, with Qiao Henian in fourth-rank official robes standing behind him, also smiling at Gu Pingyuan.

“Paying respects to Your Honor.” Gu Pingyuan was about to bow down when Qiao Henian caught him, deliberately chiding: “With our relationship, why do you use such empty formalities with me?”

“Your Honor looks well – are you here on official business from Zhejiang?”

“What official business? I’ve now been transferred to the Two Jiang provinces, though I don’t have a substantive position yet – I’m serving as a Reconstruction Committee member at the Governor-General’s office.”

“What’s the reason for this?” Gu Pingyuan asked in shock. A year ago, Qiao Henian had been invited to Zhejiang by Li Hongzhang as a red-bannered official – why was he suddenly transferred to the Two Jiang provinces without even a substantive position? This couldn’t help but be considered a major setback in his official career. Yet looking at Qiao Henian, he showed no signs of dejection but spoke and laughed freely.

Several people went together to a well-known Jiangsu cuisine restaurant across the street. The Yangtze River’s whitebait, swordfish, catfish, and shad were all at their plumpest. Peng Haiwan took charge and simply ordered a complete fish banquet. Originally meant to welcome Gu Pingyuan, with Qiao Henian joining, he naturally should take the head seat. Qiao Henian firmly refused, saying there was no reason to usurp the host’s position. After much yielding, Gu Pingyuan finally sat at the head.

After seating arrangements, Gu Pingyuan made introductions and toasted several times. When he again asked about Qiao Henian’s transfer, Qiao Henian laughed: “I volunteered for this assignment. After the great turmoil in the Two Jiang provinces, reconstruction is the urgent priority. Being able to do practical things for the people brings me more joy than holding court in an office. Besides, isn’t serving the court the same anywhere?”

“Your Honor’s benevolent heart truly deserves a toast.” Gu Pingyuan raised his cup, and everyone responded.

Only Secretary Hao knew the truth – Qiao Henian hadn’t voluntarily requested transfer to the Two Jiang provinces but was forced to leave Zhejiang by Yuan Jiasan. Ever since Qiao Henian showed no loyalty, not only joining Li Hongzhang himself but also taking away the great general Cheng Xueqi, Anhui Provincial Governor Yuan Jiasan hated him intensely. Seizing on several minor errors from Qiao Henian’s tenure in Anhui, he submitted memorial after memorial impeaching him. Normally, when provincial governors impeach circuit intendants, accusations stick immediately. But Qiao Henian, relying on Li Hongzhang as his powerful protector, remained unharmed. So Yuan Jiasan devised an even more devastating method to deal with him.

When Qiao Henian served as a local official in Anhui, he had handled criminal cases and also managed finances at the Provincial Administration Office. Yuan Jiasan selected several unclear old cases and accounts, sending dispatches every few days requesting Li Hongzhang to send Qiao Henian to Anhui for collaborative investigation. Yuan never appeared himself, only having subordinates delay the inquiries. Often, just as one matter was concluded and Qiao Henian returned to Zhejiang from Anhui, the next dispatch would arrive, requiring him to pack and make another trip. Within a year, he traveled between Anhui and Zhejiang over ten times, nearly running his legs off.

Anyone with eyes could see this was Yuan Jiasan deliberately making life difficult for Qiao Henian. This left Qiao Henian quite uncomfortable in his position. Even if Li Hongzhang said nothing, constantly delaying official business left him unable to account for himself. After much consideration, only transferring to the Two Jiang provinces to work under the Governor-General’s office would work. With Yuan Jiasan’s second-rank provincial governor status, he surely couldn’t continue sending peer-level dispatches requesting Zeng Guofan to assign subordinates for investigations, especially repeatedly deploying Two Jiang officials for trivial matters. If this angered Zeng Guofan, it wouldn’t be worth it.

Li Hongzhang finally helped, quickly arranging a path for Qiao Henian to successfully transfer to the Two Jiang provinces. However, the Two Jiang official circles also followed the principle of one turnip, one hole – officials requesting transfer from other provinces couldn’t possibly become substantive officials immediately upon arrival. He could only first secure a reconstruction committee position. Whether he could advance significantly would depend on Qiao Henian’s own performance.

Now Qiao Henian had to present a magnanimous attitude of serving country and people. Secretary Hao naturally couldn’t expose this, but he harbored another doubt. Qiao Henian was ambitious for advancement. When he first learned he was only going to the Two Jiang provinces as a reconstruction committee member, he was initially dejected. Later, Li Hongzhang specially invited him to the residence for a private conversation. When Qiao Henian returned, he was already full of confidence and excitement, even more so than when he first took office in Zhejiang. Secretary Hao couldn’t understand why. Despite several indirect inquiries, Qiao Henian deflected with irrelevant chatter.

A secretary’s role was to be the master’s confidant, offering counsel and speaking freely. But once the master concealed matters without explanation, it was most taboo – at minimum, it showed he didn’t consider the secretary one of his own people. Secretary Hao was greatly dissatisfied by this, and the relationship between master and servant was no longer as intimate as it had been in Anhui.

Since Qiao Henian came to handle reconstruction, he inevitably had to deal with merchants. The Li family’s main business was salt, which was crucial to people’s livelihood. So Qiao Henian also came to the banquet today. From upstairs, he spotted Gu Pingyuan in the distance and hurriedly left the feast to see him.

“Brother Pingyuan, I’ve been in the Two Jiang provinces for over a month and long ago heard about your clever scheme to purchase several hundred thousand shi of grain. Truly remarkable talent for managing state finances – most admirable.”

“Your Honor, please don’t mock me. This grain is now held by the provincial treasury and won’t be released. The people can barely avoid starvation – it’s truly meaningless.”

“That’s the government’s affair, nothing to do with you.”

“That’s not how it works. I’ve never handled anything so frustratingly before. Sigh!” Gu Pingyuan sighed and recounted his attempt to request grain from Zeng Guoquan. “Watching the people suffer while both officials and merchants don’t care about common people’s life and death – it’s truly beyond words.”

As he complained, Qiao Henian’s eyes lit up: “In your view, what exactly does Provincial Governor Zeng intend by keeping so much grain in his hands?”

“I don’t know. These official gentlemen think about everything except the people.” After speaking, Gu Pingyuan smiled apologetically. “Your Honor, I’m not referring to you.”

“No matter. You said both officials and merchants don’t care about people’s life and death – who do you mean by merchants?”

“Who else could it be? Didn’t Your Honor just drink with him at Tongqing Tower?”

“Young Master Li?” When Li Qin crashed the Gu family wedding, Qiao Henian had scolded him, but times change – Li Qin had long forgotten, and Qiao Henian naturally wouldn’t bring it up.

“He and I each built half the sea dike. His half probably won’t last long. When the time comes and the land becomes a marsh, won’t it still be the people who suffer?” Gu Pingyuan’s expression was grave.

Everyone naturally asked for details. Gu Pingyuan explained that the bamboo cage dike looked solid, but seawater would corrode the bamboo, especially the connecting bamboo strips which were thin and would quickly become thinner from erosion. When large waves struck, they would break. The broken stones inside the bamboo cages would constantly wear down the outer bamboo cages as they moved with the waves. Once a certain point was reached, if just one bamboo cage broke, it would trigger a chain reaction – the entire section of sea dike would collapse.

“So that’s how it is.” Qiao Henian murmured. “That Li Qin kept boasting at the banquet, calling it some ‘Dragon-Building Dike,’ claiming it could last at least ten years without problems.”

“I asked the locals – this year’s sea tides are particularly large. It looks like a high tide year. Forget ten years – whether this bamboo cage dike can survive this year is questionable.” Gu Pingyuan sneered. “When I see Governor-General Zeng, I must report this matter thoroughly.”

“Absolutely not.” Qiao Henian had been deep in thought and now firmly stopped him. “This is like ‘corpse buried in snow – truth revealed later.’ If you go make accusations now without concrete evidence, that Li Qin will say you’re jealous of his early completion and slandering good people. Then you’d truly have difficulty clearing your name.”

“Exactly, Lord Qiao speaks sensibly. To catch a thief, catch him with the goods; to catch adultery, catch them in the act. Without any evidence, relying solely on theoretical deduction, you can’t convince people.” Secretary Hao, experienced in criminal cases, nodded repeatedly upon hearing this.

“Can’t eat the mutton but get covered in its stench – not worth it,” Qiao Henian advised.

“Hmm.” Gu Pingyuan thought it over. Indeed, there was currently no way to deal with Li Qin. “Then what should be done?”

“Didn’t I just say? Corpse buried in snow – truth will emerge later. According to your analysis, this dike will inevitably collapse someday. When that happens, no words will be necessary – Governor-General Zeng will naturally understand.”

Gu Pingyuan listened in silence. What Qiao Henian said was indeed a foolproof method, but he kept seeing visions of the sea dike collapsing, flood waters rushing into villages, and people displaced and homeless. For the following ten-plus days, Gu Pingyuan couldn’t sleep well, often waking from nightmares.

“Yu’er, do you think I should fully reveal this matter to Governor-General Zeng? Even if people curse me for jealousy, at worst I’ll ask the Governor-General’s permission to spend my own money and labor to completely rebuild the sea dike section that Li Qin constructed.” This day Gu Pingyuan received word from Qiao Henian that Zeng Guofan had returned to Jiangning last night. He planned to seek an immediate audience but remained undecided.

Chang Yu’er smiled gently: “I’ve always agreed with whatever you decide about outside affairs. When have I ever disagreed?”

“This is a major matter. Tearing down and rebuilding would cost an enormous sum – not a small amount. Our Gu family’s entire year’s profits might all be lost.”

“As you said, silver and copper coins can be spent completely, but favors can never be fully earned. Actually, you have another saying, don’t you?”

Gu Pingyuan nodded: “Favors are business – great favors bring great business. Silver is only temporary profit, but favors are lifetime profit. To do big business, you must take a long-term view and earn lifetime profits.”

“Since that’s the case, why do you ask me?” Chang Yu’er fastened her husband’s silk sash, personally put on his double-beam satin shoes, stood up to look, and instructed a maid to bring a dark solid gauze vest to wear over his fine summer cloth robe. Gu Pingyuan looked gratefully at his wife, then at himself in the mirror. His mood suddenly improved greatly, dispelling days of gloom. He laughed: “You’ve dressed me up like a wealthy young master.”

“This Jiangning is the ancient capital of six dynasties. Everyone here is either rich or noble. When you do business here, you can’t dress in cloth shirts and cloth shoes like in Huizhou – you need the appearance of a great merchant. Otherwise, people will think your resources are inadequate. Originally planning to discuss business worth a hundred thousand taels of silver, they’ll immediately cut it in half.” Seeing her husband’s surprised gaze, Chang Yu’er smiled: “I heard this from Manager Peng. Having lived long in Jiangnan, his words should have some truth.”

“Yu’er, you’re truly attentive to everything – what a virtuous helpmate you are.”

“Stop showing off your learning and go to the Governor-General’s office early to handle business.” Seeing the maid giggling nearby, Chang Yu’er was quite embarrassed and gently pushed her husband.

Gu Pingyuan waited at the Governor-General’s office for a full two hours. Only after those sitting in four-bearer and eight-bearer sedan chairs – the supervisory and circuit officials – had finished their audiences one by one, did the gatekeeper tell Gu Pingyuan that Governor-General Zeng was waiting to see him in his study.

Receiving an audience in the study showed Zeng Guofan greatly valued Gu Pingyuan and didn’t treat this entirely as official business. When Gu Pingyuan arrived at the study, he discovered others were present – Li Wantang and his son were sitting casually with Zeng Guofan, drinking tea.

“Master Gu, come, come. Can you tell what tea this is?” Upon seeing him, Zeng Guofan’s face was full of smiles as he waved him over.

Gu Pingyuan had already learned from the discussions of officials at the gate that Hong Tianguifu had been captured, his identity verified, and immediately beheaded for public display. The threat was eliminated – no wonder Zeng Guofan was in such good spirits.

“Congratulations to Your Excellency on achieving another great merit for the court.” Gu Pingyuan first offered congratulations. As soon as he entered the room, he had already detected the aroma and smiled: “This tea can’t stump me – it’s Lanxue tea from my Anhui.”

“Also your Master Gu’s number one tea under heaven.” Zeng Guofan said with a smile. “I heard the Imperial Household Department has already listed this tea as tribute tea – truly worthy of the name ‘number one under heaven.'”

This was An Dehai’s contribution. The share he held in Lanxue tea hadn’t been taken for nothing. Normally, to become tribute tea required bribing various ministers and clerical officials in the Imperial Household Department with one or two hundred thousand taels of silver. With An Dehai’s word, all these expenses were waived.

Mentioning “number one tea under heaven” here was rather awkward. What the Li family had considered a sure source of wealth had now become Gu Pingyuan’s treasure trove. However, among the Li father and son, only Li Qin glared fiercely at Gu Pingyuan, while Li Wantang acted as if he hadn’t heard, simply sitting calmly drinking tea and smiling: “The wonder of being number one under heaven lies in these three turns and six layers of tea fragrance. I wonder how many layers Your Excellency can detect?”

“Haha, this governor is not skilled in this way. I only know that tea, like a gentleman, should be befriended, while wine is a petty person to be avoided. As for how many layers of tea fragrance – you’ve truly stumped me.”

“Your Excellency grasps the meaning while forgetting the form – this is true tea ceremony. I am far inferior,” Li Wantang flattered.

Zeng Guofan nodded with a smile, had Gu Pingyuan seated, then spoke: “Master Gu, this governor was about to send someone to invite you. Since you’ve come, there’s something I want to say in front of both you and Master Li.”

He picked up a commendation document from the table: “The military expense reimbursement and grain purchase matters are both great achievements, but unfortunately one involves the Six Boards and the other involves the Grand Canal Governor’s office, so this governor can only acknowledge them in spirit. However, the sea dike matter is good work both masters did for the locality, benefiting both nation and people. I’ve already had the clerks write a memorial requesting court commendation. Circuit Intendant Li, I plan to recommend you for appointment as Two Huai Salt Commissioner. With unified authority, you can act freely to increase salt taxes for the nation – this would also be a blessing for the Two Jiang provinces.”

The Two Huai Salt Commissioner was the most coveted position in the Two Huai region, directly managing tax affairs for the seventy-two salt fields of Two Huai. This was the official that Yangzhou salt merchants most needed to cultivate relationships with in the past, so much so that successive Two Huai Salt Commissioners accumulated wealth rivaling nations. Before the Daoguang era, this position could only be held by imperial relatives. Later, with Tao Zhu’s salt law reforms, Yangzhou salt merchants went bankrupt one after another, salt taxes couldn’t be collected, and the Two Huai Salt Commissioner suddenly became a thankless position, so it had been vacant for many years.

Li Wantang never dreamed that Zeng Guofan would give him this position. This brought both face and substance – controlling salt affairs while managing salt taxes. Even at the height of Yangzhou salt merchants’ power, they wouldn’t have dared imagine this. With this official seal in hand, Li Wantang could truly command wind and rain in the salt business, omnipotent.

Always composed and steady, upon hearing this news he couldn’t help but show joy on his face as he bowed to thank Zeng Guofan.

Xue Fucheng at the side looked at Zeng Guofan with admiration. He had drafted the commendation document and had wracked his brains over what reward to give Li Wantang. Finally, Zeng Guofan decided with one word: “If you’re going to give, give him what he wants most. Only then will he be grateful from the heart and serve me wholeheartedly.”

Zeng Guofan had truly seen through Li Wantang’s intentions, using a cost-free substantive position to satisfy “Li Half-City” completely while formally incorporating this well-connected businessman into the Two Jiang provinces’ official ranks. In the future, when needing him for any task, there would be no need for courtesy – orders could be given directly.

Li Wantang steadied his mind and glanced at Li Qin, whose face was also full of excitement. Suddenly remembering something, his expression changed dramatically – not only did his smile vanish completely, but remorse immediately appeared between his brows.

Li Wantang’s change of expression was so obvious that everyone in the room noticed, though they were all puzzled. Even the shrewd Zeng Guofan didn’t know what he was thinking. Could it be that Li Wantang still wasn’t satisfied? This was absolutely impossible. Zeng Guofan and Xue Fucheng exchanged glances, both perplexed.

Everyone was drawn to Li Wantang’s strange expression. He himself realized his impropriety but couldn’t find words to recover, so the room fell into brief silence. After a while, Xue Fucheng was first to change the subject: “Master Gu, I heard you were once a recommended scholar but later expelled for violating rules during the metropolitan examination, even having your degree revoked. Is this true?”

“Indeed it is. I was even sentenced to exile beyond the passes for this.” Gu Pingyuan had already mentioned this once before at the Governor-General’s office – he wondered why Secretary Xue was bringing it up again.

“Then congratulations, Master Gu. Lord Zeng plans to petition the court to specially restore your recommended scholar status. You can participate in the next metropolitan examination as an equal candidate – perhaps you might even achieve high rank on the red list and become a jinshi.”

This was also Zeng Guofan’s idea. Being a jinshi of two examinations himself, he knew scholars most treasured the status earned through ten years of cold window study. Once revoked, it was truly heartbreaking. Through several conversations, Zeng Guofan greatly appreciated Gu Pingyuan’s insights and intended to help him with this favor. He believed Gu Pingyuan would be overjoyed at this reward.

Zeng Guofan’s guess wasn’t wrong. Ever since having his recommended scholar status revoked, Gu Pingyuan knew that officials who were fined or demoted still had chances to have punishments lifted and positions restored, but once scholars and recommended scholars were struck from academic registers, they could never hope to enter examination halls again in this lifetime – they could only abandon dreams of golden horses and jade halls. He never expected Zeng Guofan would be willing to use a Two Jiang Governor-General’s recommendation to specially restore his recommended scholar status. Given Zeng’s current achievements and position, the court would certainly approve without fail. His life’s greatest regret could actually be remedied – Gu Pingyuan felt as if in a dream.

“Gu Pingyuan, why don’t you thank His Excellency?” Xue Fucheng said with a smile.

“Yes, yes.” Gu Pingyuan stood up stiffly, looked at Zeng Guofan, made as if to bow but suddenly shook his head: “This commoner thanks Your Excellency, but I’m unwilling to accept this reward.”

Once these words were spoken, everyone in the room was greatly surprised.

“Master Gu, are you so overjoyed that you’re speaking deliriously? This is an unprecedented opportunity – how can you not want it?” Xue Fucheng asked in amazement.

Li Qin had been watching Gu Pingyuan with jealousy. Once his recommended scholar status was restored, Gu Pingyuan would no longer be a “stinking exile” but a “Recommended Scholar Master” who needn’t bow even to court officials. He would also have opportunities to participate in metropolitan and palace examinations, becoming a new jinshi or even receiving imperial appointment to the top three ranks, serving as county magistrate or Hanlin scholar, returning home in glory to display a scholar’s prestige. Compared to this, though Li Wantang held fourth-rank office, it was purchased rank, always looked down upon by those who achieved office through proper channels. No matter how much money he donated, he could never hope to wear the red cap.

Who would have thought the stinking exile could also turn his fortunes around? Li Qin was just feeling indignant when he heard Gu Pingyuan say he didn’t want the reward. His heart immediately bloomed with joy, and hearing Xue Fucheng’s question, he thought disdainfully: “Why? Because he’s a madman.”

Gu Pingyuan bowed neither humbly nor arrogantly: “This commoner isn’t ungrateful, nor unaware of Your Excellency’s caring heart. But since I began learning business, I’ve always aimed to be a merchant others could respect. If I accepted this reward now, it would be telling others that in my heart, merchants will never compare to recommended scholars, that merchants will never compare to scholars – then everything I’ve done before would be meaningless.”

Gu Pingyuan let out a long breath and continued: “Besides, whether one has recommended scholar status isn’t important – what matters is whether one’s heart contains Confucian and Mencian teachings, whether one has a heart worried for country and people. Though I abandoned scholarship for commerce, I’ve never forgotten I was once a scholar. Everything I’ve done never dared deviate from sages’ teachings – I haven’t disgraced scholars. Since this is so, why should I obsess over that already-revoked status?”

Xue Fucheng wanted to persuade further, but Zeng Guofan waved his hand. He was among the few in this world who had truly succeeded in learning and observed human emotions with minute detail. After hearing Gu Pingyuan’s words, he understood his thoughts as clearly as fire. Everything Gu Pingyuan said came from his heart, but beyond this, he was also holding his breath in defiance. Since fate had treated him unfairly, he refused to bow his head – so he neither purchased office nor wished to resume being a recommended scholar, but wanted to earn everyone’s respect as a pure businessman. This spirit was truly rare.

“This governor won’t force anyone. However, you’ve achieved merit and must receive some reward – this also demonstrates the court’s clear rewards and punishments to manifest fairness.”

Gu Pingyuan naturally couldn’t overly contradict Zeng Guofan’s face. After thinking, he said tactfully: “This commoner’s father died while conducting business away from home. He had also been a scholar in life but unfortunately died with regrets before serving the court.”

“This governor understands.” Zeng Guofan looked toward Secretary Xue. “It’s rare that Master Gu is such a filial son, willing to give his reward to his ancestor. Then we’ll request seventh-rank Wenlin Lang honorary title for his honored father.”

“Thank you for Your Excellency’s fulfillment.” Only then did Gu Pingyuan offer thanks.

Li Qin had heard his mother mention that Gu Pingyuan’s father died at Li family hands, with Li Wantang as the killer, though he didn’t know the grievances involved. When he looked toward his father, he was startled to see Li Wantang’s face tight, eyes fixed on Gu Pingyuan while his eye corners twitched slightly.

What was wrong today? Both his family’s reward and Gu Pingyuan’s reward had made the usually unflappable Li Wantang lose his composure so. Li Qin wondered secretly.

Here Zeng Guofan decided to make the favor complete. After confirming Gu’s mother was still alive, he instructed Xue Fucheng to include her in the recommendation, bestowing the seventh-rank Lady title of noble woman.

Thinking of his mother’s joy upon learning this news and the difficulty of her twenty-plus years guarding a cold dwelling, Gu Pingyuan’s eyes immediately reddened as he thanked Zeng Guofan again with infinite gratitude.

The matter concluded here. Zeng Guofan, managing myriad affairs daily, was already planning to serve tea and see off guests when an attendant rushed in, presenting an urgent official document. Glancing at the summary written on the envelope, Zeng Guofan frowned and said “Excuse me” before striding to his official signing room.

Xue Fucheng accompanied the guests on the Governor-General’s behalf for a while. Seeing Zeng Guofan didn’t return for a long time, knowing the official business was thorny, he simply saw the guests off himself. Gu Pingyuan had originally wanted to tell Zeng Guofan about the “bamboo cage dike” matter, but this unexpected interruption cost him the opportunity – he could only plan to request another audience another day.

At midnight that day, someone knocked on Shunde Tea House’s door. When servants opened it and asked, they sought Master Gu Pingyuan.

Having learned from the attack at the sea dike, Liu Heita also quickly rose to accompany Gu Pingyuan in meeting this unexpected visitor.

“Brother Hao!” Gu Pingyuan was very surprised, then immediately thought something major must have happened – otherwise Secretary Hao wouldn’t visit in the dead of night.

“Brother Gu, your words proved prophetic.” Secretary Hao’s expression was strange – worry mixed with joy, joy tinged with worry.

“This confuses me – what exactly happened?” Gu Pingyuan asked urgently.

“Didn’t you say some days ago that the sea dike the Li family built couldn’t last a year and a half?”

“Yes.”

“From its completion until now, how much time has passed?”

Gu Pingyuan counted on his fingers: “Less than two months.”

“It collapsed!”

“Ah!” Gu Pingyuan was stunned upon hearing this. Liu Heita at his side was also shocked, both involuntarily standing from their seats.

“Even if it were fast, it shouldn’t be this fast – where did it collapse?”

“I don’t know the details. I got this information from a document secretary at the Governor-General’s office. Specifics will be clarified when His Excellency holds court tomorrow. But don’t worry, brother – I specially asked, and the sea dike you built is solid as Mount Tai. By comparison, wisdom and folly are immediately apparent – you’ll surely gain more of Governor-General Zeng’s appreciation.”

Hearing this, Gu Pingyuan showed no joy on his face but frowned in thought, murmuring: “Collapsed in two months – it shouldn’t be so.”

“Collapsed is collapsed. The Yancheng County Magistrate sent an urgent report. I suspect the disaster must be significant. That Li Qin definitely used some corner-cutting methods secretly – this time the Li family is in trouble.”

“The people are in worse trouble.” Gu Pingyuan shook his head repeatedly. “If I’d known this sea dike would collapse so quickly, I would have found a way to remedy it in Nantong.”

“Fortunately you didn’t do that. Li Qin would have bitten back, saying you sabotaged his sea dike project. Even with mouths all over your body, you couldn’t explain clearly. One can’t be such a foolish good person – otherwise you’re just waiting to be bitten by dogs.”

“Secretary Hao is right. Why should Li Qin embezzle silver while we clean up his mess? Let’s see how he explains this to the Governor-General’s office.” Liu Heita felt extremely vindicated.

“I naturally feel vindicated too, but thinking that right now, countless people’s homes have been washed away by tides with nowhere to shelter… We’re here with hot tea, hot food, hot beds, while disaster victims cry with no recourse, without clothing or food. Have you thought about that miserable scene?” Gu Pingyuan felt like a large stone blocked his heart. His words silenced both men in the room.

The next day, more news arrived. Seven sections of the sea dike Li Qin built had collapsed simultaneously. Pulling one hair moved the whole body – in total, over ten li of sea dike was washed away by tides. Over twenty villages were flooded, three large towns submerged, thousands of qing of fertile fields lost, with over a hundred thousand disaster victims in total. As Secretary Hao had said, the sea dike Gu Pingyuan built stood like cast iron and steel – forget collapsing, not even a stone chip had fallen.

“Relief must be swift. These are over a hundred thousand mouths waiting to eat. They can endure missing one meal, struggle through missing two meals, but if they miss three meals, they’ll probably start cursing and become mountain bandits.”

Zeng Guofan sat in the great hall, grimly telling Xue Fucheng: “Go tell Li Wantang that regardless of why the sea dike collapsed, it’s inseparably connected to his Li family. The fewer disaster victims who die, the lighter his guilt. So have him provide silver for relief first – repair houses for disaster victims, distribute grain and clothing.”

Xue Fucheng quickly agreed. He understood clearly that with Gu Pingyuan’s indestructible sea dike as comparison, even if Zeng Guofan intended to protect the Li family out of consideration for past merits, it would be very difficult to exonerate them.

“Your Excellency, another document from Yancheng has arrived.” An attendant presented another dispatch.

Upon reading it, Zeng Guofan’s expression immediately changed: “Secretary Xue, colleagues, look at this – this governor’s fears have unfortunately come true.”

Xue Fucheng took the document and read it carefully before passing it down. His expression also became extremely ugly: “This… how could such a great disturbance occur?”

Yancheng’s granary had been robbed by rioters, all stored official grain swept clean. When the Assistant Magistrate led runners to suppress them, over ten were beaten to death or injury, including the Assistant Magistrate himself. Additionally, most shops and banks were plundered, and even the county office was set ablaze – fortunately it was extinguished early, only burning down the main hall.

“Most ridiculous is that Yancheng County Magistrate – with the city in chaos like a boiling pot, he actually deployed troops to escort himself and his family away, claiming it was to ‘protect the seal.’ With the city lost, what use is the seal? Simply absurd!” Zeng Guofan rarely showed anger, but this time he was truly furious. “Send the garrison commander to strip that magistrate of his official robes and immediately arrest him.”

“Even if the entire county city burned down, there would be remedial measures. But killing foreigners – how can this be explained?” Xue Fucheng became somewhat panicked seeing the end.

At the very end of this document, it mentioned a foreign couple who, due to unsettled final payments from the dike construction, were conducting business in the county when rioters caused chaos. The foreign woman was dragged into an empty room, gang-raped, then beaten to death. Her husband, a trading house manager, seized a horse and barely escaped with his life. He had now gone to the British Consulate in Shanghai and would certainly demand major negotiations over this.

“This foreign devil is pathetic enough. His wife was violated and he ran away – that’s one thing, but he still has the face to go crying for others to intervene.” The crude and unlettered Bao Chao grew impatient listening, cracking his knuckle joints loudly.

Zeng Guofan glared at him: “This involves foreigners – how can it be taken lightly? Have you forgotten how the British and French barbarians fought their way into the capital a few years ago? In dealing with foreigners, one thing is supremely important – provocations must never be initiated by us!”

“Your Excellency’s words show true insight, but now that provocation has occurred, what should be done?” Xue Fucheng knew this matter could be major or minor. If handled carelessly, British warships might arrive at Xiaguan Wharf, bombard the city, and force a treaty under the city walls. Zeng Guofan’s lifetime achievements would turn to flowing water, and he’d face universal condemnation and disgrace.

“Foreigners conduct affairs most systematically. They’ll certainly send formal communications first, only dispatching troops if negotiations fail. We might as well wait.”

“What about relief efforts?” Xue Fucheng, worthy of being a secretary who filled gaps and made up deficiencies, thought that with disaster victims turned rioters and foreign lives involved, proceeding with the previous relief arrangements might give foreigners grounds to claim the government was aiding rioters – a trouble that would stick to Zeng Guofan like wet clothing, impossible to shake off.

“Please reconsider, Your Excellency.” Xue Fucheng lowered his voice. “Currently in the court, there are quite a few people waiting to see Your Excellency’s downfall or even ready to kick you when you’re down. For them, this incident is a once-in-a-millennium opportunity.”

Reminded by these words, Zeng Guofan couldn’t help feeling alarmed. Indeed, in this matter, besides rioters and foreigners, those imperial relatives and high ministers who envied him also couldn’t be ignored.

Zeng Guofan understood clearly that this incident had stirred up popular resentment. The sea dike was a trigger, but if families had surplus grain, people wouldn’t have rioted. Fundamentally, it was because his brother Zeng Guoquan had withheld provincial treasury grain, and this was with his tacit approval. If the court truly investigated, this charge of “withholding grain without distribution, thereby inciting popular unrest” would be difficult for their brothers to defend against.

Just for this point, this matter had to be suppressed somehow – major issues made minor, minor issues eliminated, resolved as quickly as possible. But with foreigners involved, he couldn’t manipulate freely. If foreigners made demands he couldn’t agree to, he’d have to report to the Zongli Yamen for decision, requiring detailed explanation of causes – wouldn’t that be providing his own confession? Thinking of this, Zeng Guofan felt vexed and waved his hand: “Have him prepare first – transport grain and clothing to Nantong and await orders nearby. Also tell him to stop thinking about that Two Huai Salt Commissioner position.”

He then instructed attendants: “When diplomatic documents from the British Consulate arrive, no matter how late, present them immediately.”

“Your Excellency, should we prepare coastal batteries and make ready for war with foreigners?” Bao Chao, as provincial military commander, was responsible for warfare matters.

“No, no!” Zeng Guofan said irritably. “How can we fight? We absolutely cannot fight!”

“Secretary Xue, please put in great effort mediating this matter. The Li family would be infinitely grateful.” Li Wantang, having received the report, hurried back and happened to encounter Xue Fucheng’s visit. He received him in his own study, and after pleasantries, took a small wallet from a drawer and handed it over.

Xue Fucheng accepted it. Seeing the wallet’s opening, inside was only one bank note, but he glimpsed the dragon seal – clearly a ten-thousand-tael dragon-head large note.

“Such great kindness is truly undeserved. However, the Two Huai Salt Commissioner position was recommended due to dike construction merit. Now not only has the sea dike broken, but such a great disturbance has occurred. This…”

“Of course, how would I dare hope for this anymore? Now I only pray to avoid blame.”

Xue Fucheng nodded secretly. Since he’d entered and fully revealed the sea dike collapse causing popular unrest and harming foreigners, Li Wantang had maintained constant composure without disorder – this steadiness was indeed impressive.

“Avoiding blame is also difficult – there must be a passable explanation.”

“I’ve already thought of this. Here’s an explanatory document – please present it to Lord Zeng on my behalf.” Li Wantang handed Xue Fucheng a document from his desk.

Xue Fucheng glanced at it and was shocked. Looking up again at Li Wantang’s confident smile, he involuntarily frowned.

“Very well.” For the sake of ten thousand taels of silver, Xue Fucheng agreed to present the document, but he also decided to merely hand it to Zeng Guofan without adding a single word of endorsement.

When Xue Fucheng left, he unexpectedly saw the anxious and restless Li Qin in the courtyard. He must have gotten the news too. Seeing his father seeing off guests, his face showed both shame and tension.

Li Wantang paid him no attention. After seeing off Xue Fucheng, he beckoned Li An over and instructed: “Whenever Manager Wang arrives, bring him in immediately without announcement.” Li An was startled at these words. Li Wantang looked at him and nodded: “I suppose he’s already here – then please invite him in.”

Wang Tiangui entered the hall calmly. Seeing Li Qin present, he smiled meaningfully at him before proceeding directly to the study. Li Qin hesitated, then approached the study to listen.

“Manager Wang, are the salt field affairs so idle? How do you have time to come play in Jiangning?” Li Wantang glanced at him, asking in a very leisurely manner.

Wang Tiangui had been closely watching Li Wantang’s expression since entering. Seeing him even calmer than usual, he cursed silently and smiled as he spoke: “Salt fields? The salt fields have all become fishing grounds now – naturally I have nothing to do.”

“What do you mean by this?”

“What? Master Li still doesn’t know? The coastal salt fields within ten li have all been flooded by tides. The brine pits that could have been very profitable are now a complete mess. If not for relying on the good sea dike Gu Pingyuan built, just depending on your young master Li’s sea dike, probably all the Two Huai salt fields would have been ruined.” Actually, the salt field damage wasn’t so severe, but Wang Tiangui wanted to make an issue of this and naturally exaggerated.

“I already know of this matter. Tides are merciless, Heaven’s will is awesome – truly regrettable and lamentable.”

“Haha, Master Li, if you want to protect your beloved son, this isn’t the way to do it.” Wang Tiangui widened his eyes and leaned forward. “Let me ask you – didn’t Li Qin and Gu Pingyuan each build half the sea dike?”

“Correct!”

“And didn’t only the half the Li family built collapse while the other half Gu Pingyuan built remained perfectly intact?”

“I heard this is indeed so!”

“There you have it – how is this Heaven’s will? Clearly Li Qin was careless and embezzled for personal gain, building a sea dike that collapsed within a month.” He waited a moment, and seeing Li Wantang didn’t object, continued: “This implicated the salt fields, which means implicating me. Master Li mustn’t forget – the original contract specified that salt field profits would be split half to me, three parts for the remainder. Now with Li Qin’s actions, salt field profits have sharply decreased, equivalent to digging silver from my pocket. Why should your son’s embezzlement and reckless behavior make me suffer losses? Master Li, tell me if I’m right.”

Li Wantang’s lips held a trace of cold smile as he nodded: “Right, couldn’t be more right. Manager Wang, what exactly do you want to say?”

“Redistribution! Even if the salt fields’ water recedes, production will inevitably decrease. Your Li family can clean up this mess yourselves. I want to redistribute salt field and salt shop management, and naturally the associated profits should change hands too.”

Li Wantang remained unperturbed, asking: “In your opinion, how should things be divided?”

“Simple – just switch roles. I want the salt shops, you manage the salt fields. This way is fair and reasonable.”

“Bullshit!” Before Li Wantang could answer, the door was suddenly kicked open. The furious Li Qin burst in, pointing at Wang Tiangui with a trembling finger, his face twisted with rage.

“You old fox, I finally understand why you offered unsolicited help, rushing over to give me the ‘bamboo cage dike’ method. You’d planned this step long ago – it was to seize the salt shops, deliberately setting a trap for me to fall into.” As Li Qin spoke, he looked around, spotted a hexagonal porcelain vase on a shelf, grabbed it and was about to smash it.

“Li An!” Li Wantang shouted. Li An took three steps as two, snatched away the porcelain vase, and grabbed Li Qin around the waist.

Wang Tiangui smiled at Li Qin and spread his hands: “Young Master Qin, that’s not right. You say the bamboo cage dike idea was mine, but words have no proof – you can’t very well drag me to court. Even stepping back to say the idea really was mine, but you were the one who made the decision, you were the one who embezzled dike construction silver. I didn’t take a single fen. Even if disaster befalls the entire household, it can’t implicate an outsider like me.”

“You damned old fox, I’ll fight you to the death today! Don’t think you can walk out of this door!” Li Qin cursed furiously.

“Silence!” Li Wantang suddenly roared angrily. “Manager Wang is doing partnership business with us – how can you be so rude? Get out and stand at the door!”

“Father! It’s him, really him! It’s all his conspiracy and trickery – don’t be deceived!” Li Qin widened his eyes and shouted defiantly.

“Deceived?” Li Wantang laughed coldly. “How do I feel that Manager Wang spoke correctly? Weren’t you in charge of building the sea dike? Didn’t the embezzled silver go into your pocket to rent Tongqing Tower?”

“I… I…” Li Qin was momentarily speechless, stammering without answer.

“Get out!” Li Wantang pointed at the door. “Otherwise I’ll send you back to the Beijing residence today.”

“Fine, I’ll go out!” Li Qin stamped his foot in anger, glared at Wang Tiangui with murderous eyes, then turned and stormed out.

“My son is rude – Manager Wang, please don’t take offense.”

“No offense taken.” Wang Tiangui, seeing him discipline his son in front of him, knew it was performed for his benefit. He sneered inwardly but pressed his words: “However, what we discussed before your son entered – Master Li shouldn’t use this as an excuse to change the subject.”

“You mean switching the salt field and salt shop operations?”

“Exactly. Good that Master Li remembers – please give me a straightforward answer.”

“Agreed!”

Li Wantang’s simple two words left Wang Tiangui unable to believe his ears. He had expected to need several rounds of harassment, even threatening to report to the court, before achieving his goal through bargaining – and he hadn’t dared hope to obtain all the salt shops, considering half already satisfactory. With Li Wantang agreeing so readily, Wang Tiangui hesitated instead, asking: “Master Li, you’re not joking, are you?”

“I never joke about business matters. Since my worthless son caused trouble, we should handle it as Manager Wang suggested – consider it a lesson for him.”

“You mean exchanging all salt fields for all salt shops?” Wang Tiangui asked tentatively.

“Naturally, all of them.”

“Excellent! Worthy of Li Half-City – truly decisive!” Wang Tiangui was overjoyed and about to clap when Li Wantang called: “Wait!”

“Hmm, Master Li, surely you don’t want to renege? You’re the leader of Beijing merchants – your words just spoken still echo in our ears. They can’t be meaningless, can they?” Wang Tiangui, like a vulture deprived of food, pressed with reddening eyes.

“Of course I’m not reneging. But everything must be discussed thoroughly. Today you come demanding salt shops because the Li family caused losses to your salt fields. So someday, if you cause losses to the Li family and the Four Great Constants, what then?”

“What do you mean by this? I’m not building sea dikes – how could I cause salt field losses?”

“I’m not worried about salt fields.” Li Wantang smiled slightly, taking an account book from nearby. “You and the Four Great Constants have both seen this ledger – it shows salt shop income for these two months. Honestly, it’s enormous profit. If Manager Wang takes over but manages poorly, failing to reach these numbers, when year-end dividends come, won’t others suffer losses? Without clarifying this point, I can’t hand over the salt shops.”

“Business always has ups and downs…” Wang Tiangui pondered.

“I’m saying, if after you take over, salt shop profits don’t reach sixty percent of previous levels, what then?”

Sixty percent! Wang Tiangui nearly laughed aloud. He knew too well – these salt shops were all on bustling streets with constant foot traffic morning and evening. Salt was a necessity – each household’s monthly purchases were fixed. There might be slight fluctuations, but at most ten percent, and that was overestimating. To fail to reach sixty percent would require half of Jiangnan to suddenly stop eating salt.

“Master Li, I’ll follow your lead entirely – whatever you say goes.”

“In my opinion, if salt shop operations don’t reach sixty percent of previous levels, you might as well quit this business. Then convert your invested capital to loans for Two Huai salt fields, calculate monthly interest, and return principal plus interest when due. From then on, Two Huai salt fields would have nothing to do with you.”

Wang Tiangui fell silent upon hearing this. These were Li Wantang’s conditions – agree, and the salt shops would be his immediately; refuse, and judging by this attitude, Li Wantang would serve tea and see him off. Any future attempts on the salt shops would require great effort.

But if something truly went wrong, it would be like drawing water with a bamboo basket – getting nothing. Forget salt shops, even his original salt fields would be lost. Wang Tiangui weighed options in his mind but couldn’t imagine how salt shops could inexplicably lose forty percent of income. Finally, he concluded this was clearly “Zhuge Liang’s empty city strategy – frightening Sima Yi.”

Wang Tiangui looked at the composed Li Wantang across from him and secretly gritted his teeth. Timidity never made generals – besides, the path ahead was clear. The situation Li Wantang described could never happen. He didn’t mention seventy or eighty-ninety percent but chose an impossible sixty percent just to make him uncertain and afraid to act.

Li Wantang, this time you’ve guessed wrong. I, Wang, am not one of those inexperienced small merchants who can be intimidated by you! Having decided, Wang Tiangui nodded firmly: “Agreed! If sales truly don’t reach sixty percent, I’d have no face to continue and would naturally step aside for the worthy. But Master Li, your word must count – all salt shops must be handed to me.” He fixed him with a penetrating stare.

Li Wantang seemed surprised he would agree, pausing before saying: “Manager Wang, think carefully – weather is unpredictable, what if…”

“There’s no ‘what if.'” Wang Tiangui, fearing he might renege, immediately said: “I also never joke about business. Since we’ve agreed, why not draw up a contract immediately?”

“The salt fields include Four Great Constants’ shares – we should invite all four managers to discuss together.”

“Master Li, surely you jest. North and south span thousands of li – the Four Great Constants’ managers are busy people. Waiting to gather them here, we’d spend New Year in Jiangning. Besides, they only take dividends without managing operations. Your salt shops, my salt fields – switching between ourselves – what concern is it of theirs?” The more cautious Li Wantang became, the more Wang Tiangui felt he was stalling, confirming his guess that Li Wantang was bluffing. Since he wasn’t fooled, Li Wantang panicked.

To prevent him from changing his mind, Wang Tiangui seized the small letter-opening knife from Li Wantang’s desk and scraped his fingertip. The sharp blade drew blood immediately.

“Manager Wang, what are you doing?” Li Wantang asked in alarm.

“Please draw up the contract, Master Li. To show my sincerity, I’ll press a bloody thumbprint.” Li Wantang couldn’t help smiling wryly: “Since Manager Wang is so sincere, and my son caused trouble, I can only respectfully comply.” He took up his brush and wrote down the conditions they’d just agreed upon.

Wang Tiangui, crafty and experienced, thought of another essential precaution and said seriously: “Master Li, once these salt fields are yours, monthly salt supplies to shops cannot be reduced by even the slightest amount, or I won’t acknowledge this account.”

“Rest assured – if supply is short, that’s my fault. If this reduces salt shop profits, I’ll naturally take responsibility. This clause can be written into the contract.” Li Wantang wrote without pause, completing it in one go. “Please review it, Manager Wang.”

“Hmm.” Wang Tiangui took the contract and read every word carefully, considering again to ensure he wouldn’t suffer loss before nodding.

“Perhaps tomorrow we should go to the yamen clerk to file it officially, with government witness – then we can press thumbprints.” Li Wantang suddenly seemed hesitant again.

“Unnecessary. Must I get cut again tomorrow?” Hearing his intention to delay further, Wang Tiangui placed the contract on the table, squeezed more blood from his fingertip, and pressed down a brilliant red thumbprint.

“Very well.” Li Wantang reluctantly also pressed his thumbprint.

“Done.” Wang Tiangui gleefully took the contract: “Then I won’t disturb you further. Oh, Master Li, government witness is still needed – if disputes arise later, it saves much arguing. Tomorrow morning, I’ll wait for you at the Provincial Administration Office clerk – we won’t fail to meet. I’ll take my leave now.”

Though Li Wantang’s face showed displeasure, he still courteously saw Wang Tiangui to the study door, then instructed Li An to escort the guest out.

Li Qin stood outside, hearing every word clearly, his heart clawed as if by a hundred talons. Never had he caused such grave trouble. Not only had his father lost the Two Huai Salt Commissioner position but also handed over hundreds of salt shops obtained from Zeng Guofan, keeping only damaged salt fields. The Two Huai salt industry that Beijing Li family had painstakingly acquired was thus surrendered to Wang Tiangui – over half lost – and he was the culprit.

Seeing Li Wantang turn back, he lowered his head, knowing thunderous scolding would follow, perhaps even banishment to guard the Beijing residence.

His gaze fell, seeing his father stop before him, but the expected lightning strike never came. Li Qin grew increasingly anxious but dared not look up at Li Wantang’s terrible expression.

“Crisis is not merely danger but also opportunity. You must watch carefully and learn from what follows.” After a long wait, Li Wantang suddenly spoke, saying only this slowly before turning back to his study, leaving Li Qin standing bewildered in the corridor.

“You truly didn’t suggest this to Li Wantang?” Under the window, a lamp flickered like a bean – distant cold stars shone brighter than the lamp. Bai Yimei looked at Su Zixuan, asking in extremely distrustful tones.

Su Zixuan gazed out the window, saying quietly: “If you don’t trust me, even sworn oaths won’t convince you. But I truly needn’t do this. Consider – initially, no one expected such magnitude, not just dike collapse but popular riots and foreign deaths making resolution impossible. Not knowing there would be guilt, naturally no thought of using salt workers as scapegoats.”

Bai Yimei bit her lip: “By your account, Li Wantang spontaneously decided to pin dike collapse blame on salt workers.”

“I suspect he didn’t want this either – after all, these salt workers are all his money-making tools. But if this matter truly brought foreign troops with people rising in rebellion, forget the Li family being mere merchants – even imperial relatives couldn’t keep their heads, so Li Wantang could only sacrifice pawns to save the king. Honestly, his quick reaction truly impresses me.”

Bai Yimei had sent Canal Gang members to Jiangning mainly to monitor Two Huai salt fields. With such major developments, she immediately rushed to Jiangning, spending silver freely to bribe yamen clerks for information. From an attendant in the Governor-General’s signing room, she learned Li Wantang had submitted an explanatory document through Secretary Xue, claiming that during dike construction, salt workers who were Taiping remnants had sabotaged the work, causing rapid collapse. The salt workers intended this as revenge against Qing forces, avenging Hong Xiuquan and others.

This document’s most ingenious point was that Zeng Guofan had been granted full authority by the court to handle Taiping military affairs, and these salt workers were indeed captured Taiping soldiers. In other words, Li Wantang connected dike collapse with Taiping rebellion, making all subsequent events stem from this. Since the court had granted Zeng Guofan authority, all Taiping-related affairs within Two Jiang provinces should be handled entirely by Zeng Guofan. Without court interference, Zeng Guofan naturally wouldn’t escalate matters. The Li family would at most pay compensation, with Two Huai salt workers becoming scapegoats.

These people were already rebel criminals – killing dozens to cover this storm was acceptable to all levels of Two Jiang officialdom. Li Wantang had effectively given Zeng Guofan the solution while making it seem effortless and seamless – no wonder even the clever Su Zixuan admired him.

“No! I absolutely refuse!” Bai Yimei’s almond eyes widened, saying uncompromisingly: “The Heroic King’s subordinates are people I must save – they cannot be scapegoats, killed and executed at will.”

“If you can’t bear it, send Canal Gang brothers to confess at the yamen, saying they snuck underwater during high tide and cut those bamboo strips and bark in half, causing dike collapse when waves struck.” Su Zixuan continued gazing out the window, saying softly: “This is absolutely true – even executed by blade, these Canal Gang brothers wouldn’t die as innocents.”

Bai Yimei glared at her angrily, pointing outside: “Go find Li Wantang immediately and have him withdraw the document.”

Su Zixuan laughed, speaking in slightly mocking tones: “Elder Sister, you speak so lightly. Haven’t you heard ‘once words enter official gates, nine oxen cannot pull them back’? Besides, Governor-General Zeng has already seen it – you can’t make him forget.” Su Zixuan was determined to protect Li Wantang. The Two Huai salt fields’ enormous salt taxes were perfect temptation for inciting Zeng Guoquan to rebel – she couldn’t let her carefully planned scheme fail for mere dozens of salt workers.

Bai Yimei fell silent briefly, donned her cloak, and walked outside.

“If you won’t go, I’ll find someone else.”

Liu Heita, entrusted by Gu Pingyuan, went to the city’s largest general goods warehouse to buy a thousand winter jackets, having the shop deliver them to the Zhang family in Nantong with a letter explaining they were donations for disaster victims, requesting Master Zhang to distribute them.

Business concluded smoothly, Liu Heita felt pleased. On his return, he bought half a jin of wine and smoked duck from a wine shop. Drinking and eating while listening to passersby chat, before he knew it, the moon topped the trees. Only then did he rise to return.

Approaching the tea house, he saw someone standing motionless in the doorway shadows. Without the silver embroidery on that dark cloak, it would be hard to distinguish. Liu Heita thought his wine-blurred eyes deceived him. Rubbing them, he said: “The tea house is closed now – come back tomorrow for tea.”

Behind that person stood a young man who said quietly: “Elder Sister, isn’t this the one who caused trouble at Gang Leader Jiang’s door last time? I recognize him – he was once a Nian rebel, under General Huang ‘Ghost Hard to Catch’ in Shaanxi. I heard he even rescued the Liang King from bandits’ mountain stronghold. I found him familiar last time – I recognized him today.”

“Is that so?” Bai Yimei raised her eyebrows. “He seems to be Gu Pingyuan’s brother-in-law.”

Just then, Liu Heita swayed over. Looking closely, his tongue immediately tied: “You… you’re not that… that…” He pointed at Bai Yimei, clearly recognizing her.

“You know me?” Bai Yimei frowned puzzledly.

“Ha! Back then in the red pine forest beside Gu family village in Huizhou, I whipped away yamen runners, or you’d have been escorted to Hefei. I wore a face mask then – no wonder you don’t remember my appearance.”

“Oh, then I must thank you.” Not knowing the full story, Bai Yimei assumed Liu Heita saved her at Gu Pingyuan’s request, merely smiling coldly with extremely distant tone.

This made Liu Heita uncomfortable. Learning she sought Gu Pingyuan and wanted Liu Heita to call him, Liu Heita felt even more awkward. Emboldened by wine, he glared: “Why should I call my brother-in-law out? Just go in and find him – my sister’s there too. Though it’s late, with women present, nothing’s improper.” He usually called Gu Pingyuan “Big Brother,” rarely emphasizing “brother-in-law” so loudly. Speaking, he pushed open the tea house door with a challenging gesture and challenging eyes.

Bai Yimei glanced at him, stepped up, and walked straight in.

“Hey, hey.” Liu Heita hadn’t expected Bai Yimei to actually enter. Worried his sister would see, he scrambled to intercept but was too late. Chang Yu’er and several Peng family women were emerging from the main hall, chatting and laughing, and immediately saw them.

Chang Yu’er needed only one glance to know this was Bai Yimei – the woman her husband once loved. Bai Yimei also saw only Chang Yu’er among several women, thinking: “So this is his wife, the woman he married, the woman who shares his days and nights.”

The two women stared at each other, momentarily stunned.

Liu Heita looked left and right, rubbing his hands and staring wide-eyed, suddenly speechless.

Zhang Pigeng saw this wasn’t right, approached, and said quietly: “Elder Sister, we still have business – we can’t delay.”

Only then did Bai Yimei recover, immediately putting on a faint smile as she addressed Chang Yu’er: “You must be Sister-in-law Gu. I’m Gu Pingyuan’s fellow townsman. I have business today and came to visit – could you kindly let him come see me?”

Chang Yu’er also understood, smiling serenely: “He conducts business with open doors for all the world – everyone can associate with him. Being convenient to others is convenient to oneself – no need for ‘please.'”

Bai Yimei hadn’t expected Gu Pingyuan’s wife to have such sharp words. After a moment’s shock, she heard her continue: “My husband is in the back courtyard study – go find him yourself.”

“Thank you then.” Bai Yimei wasn’t polite. As she brushed past Chang Yu’er, the two women’s gazes met – complex looks seeming to hold thousands of words, all blocked behind thick barriers.

“Sister, this woman is too shameless, actually coming brazenly to the door. Should I drive her away?”

“Visitors are guests – she’s done nothing improper. How can we use force to drive her away?” Chang Yu’er instructed a nearby maid to prepare fine Lanxue tea and serve it in the study for guests.

“Not drive her away? Then sister, you should go to the study too, stand beside Brother Gu – let’s see if that woman dares say anything. If not, you stand left, I’ll stand right.”

Chang Yu’er couldn’t help laughing: “Big Brother, what are you doing? Aren’t you embarrassed, making it seem like I don’t trust my own husband?”

“Then…” Liu Heita lowered his voice: “Then you’re truly at ease?”

Chang Yu’er nodded. Her face indeed showed nothing, but Liu Heita, having grown up with her, naturally saw she was somewhat distracted.

“That woman’s up to something fishy – I must go help sister listen.” Liu Heita went to the back courtyard, pressed his ear to the door crack, and held his breath to listen to the conversation inside.

“These people suffered at Two Huai salt fields because of you – if you haven’t lost all conscience, you shouldn’t sit by and watch.” Inside, Bai Yimei was saying this.

Gu Pingyuan slowly shook his head, showing some indignation: “Yimei…” “Have you forgotten how to address me?”

“Very well. Elder Sister, setting aside whether that was Gu’s fault, even if it were, I can only consider it saving their lives. Look at Jiangnan’s current situation – those Taiping forces who resisted to the end all lost their heads, while these people, being captured, could atone through labor and keep their lives.”

“I see.” Bai Yimei’s face showed surprise and delight. “I’ve truly misjudged you all along. So Master Gu is a great benefactor who painstakingly forged letters from the Heavenly King, deceiving so many people into the city to be slaughtered – all to save these tens of thousands from suffering! In that case, Heaven and Buddha should truly bless you. Those tens of thousands should burn incense morning and evening, wishing you longevity so you can lead your children and grandchildren to sweep graves and offer sacrifices to those Heavenly Kingdom soldiers who died in Shouzhou. As for me, with my husband murdered and having to serve his killer nightly, I owe it all to Master Gu’s care. I should thank you properly, shouldn’t I?”

Her smile never faded, but each word was like ice-cold blades. Though her final sentence was spoken lightly, Liu Heita shivered even through the door.

“This woman is too formidable – my sister can’t handle her.” Liu Heita worried secretly, then saw Peng Haiwan also creeping over.

Having heard from his wife, he came to watch the excitement, immediately asking: “Master Liu, I heard the woman inside is Master Gu’s old flame?”

“Bah!” Liu Heita was so angry he wanted to curse but quickly covered his mouth, whispering: “She is… she’s… Hell, can’t explain in a few words. Go listen over there.” He pointed to the base of the window.

Bai Yimei’s words all stabbed at Gu Pingyuan’s heart, especially the last sentence, making him feel irreparable damage was done. He had wanted to explain this was Li Qin’s conspiracy, but thinking Li Qin acted to revenge himself, he ultimately felt disheartened and sat down dejectedly.

“What do you want me to do to save them?”

“I don’t know. Anyway, once Li Wantang’s document is submitted, Zeng Guofan may issue orders at any time. If you can’t act in time, I’ll have to return and make arrangements.”

“Arrangements?” Gu Pingyuan looked up puzzledly.

“Don’t forget, I’m Jiang Tai’s adopted daughter – he listens to everything I say now. The Canal Gang has over a hundred thousand brothers. At worst, I’ll lead them to fight the government forces, rescue all the salt workers. When soldiers unite and attack together, we might even capture Jiangning City.”

“Yimei, have you gone mad!” Gu Pingyuan rose abruptly.

This time Bai Yimei didn’t object, just looked at him coldly.

“You’re forcing me,” Gu Pingyuan said painfully.

“Shouldn’t I?”

Outside the door, Liu Heita listened to their exchange, his palms sweating. He wanted to burst in and loudly demand why Bai Yimei was so overbearing, forcing Gu Pingyuan to do her bidding. But then he thought – what if Brother Gu misunderstood that Yu’er sent him? If husband and wife had discord, with mother-in-law and daughter-in-law already at odds, adding marital deadlock would only please this woman more. With this thought, he couldn’t move his legs.

“In any case, whether Zeng Guofan issues orders or not, I’m giving you two days. After this deadline, I’ll proceed as I just said.” Bai Yimei left these words and walked out of the study. Seeing Liu Heita glaring angrily at her, she called back loudly: “Master Gu, I heard your brother-in-law was once a Nian rebel. Don’t let anyone report him to the authorities – he might get his head chopped off too.”

“Go ahead and report! If I’m afraid of you, I’ll write my surname Liu backwards!”

Hearing her threaten Gu Pingyuan using himself, Liu Heita was even more furious. Bai Yimei ignored him completely, leaving with Zhang Pigeng.

“Master Liu, were you really a Nian rebel?” Peng Haiwan asked cautiously.

“Don’t mention it – that’s all in the past.”

“Did you kill government soldiers?”

Liu Heita looked at him irritably: “Without killing government soldiers, could it be called being a Nian rebel? How embarrassing.”

Peng Haiwan secretly stuck out his tongue, thinking: And I’m blamed for doing business with Taiping rebels. What kind of people does Master Gu associate with? Every one is life-threatening. If the authorities knew, we’d all share in house confiscation and execution.

He and Liu Heita entered the study together. Gu Pingyuan seemed oblivious, staring outside speechlessly.

“Master, I understood the situation. What that woman wanted you to do is even harder than buying hundreds of thousands of shi of grain. I have something to say but don’t know if I should.”

“Speak – I’m listening.” Gu Pingyuan looked up.

“This matter has escalated so much that it’s hard to resolve easily. How could Governor-General Zeng let it pass lightly? I’m not being harsh, but honestly speaking, using dozens of salt workers who were once Taiping rebels to preserve the caps and buttons of officials from county magistrates to prefectural offices to the Two Jiang Governor-General – anyone can calculate this account clearly. If you insist on interfering, regardless of whether you can stop it, you’ll definitely offend officials throughout the Two Jiang provinces. Besides, Master, you fundamentally cannot stop it.” Peng Haiwan lowered his voice further: “That Lord Zeng is at the height of his power. It’s too late to add flowers to brocade – how could he let this matter stain his peerless reputation? So I advise you, Master – don’t seek trouble unnecessarily. Pretend this never happened, or endless troubles will follow.”

Peng Haiwan felt his analysis was penetrating, and Gu Pingyuan was reasonable, so surely he’d heed the advice. But he only sighed lightly, saying: “You’re all correct, but are there no other methods worth trying?”

Peng Haiwan sucked in cold air, stunned for a long moment, then secretly tugged Liu Heita’s sleeve, thinking: I’m an outsider – you’re Master Gu’s relative, your turn to persuade.

“Ahem.” Liu Heita cleared his throat. “Brother Gu, you really want to help that woman?”

Gu Pingyuan looked at him, his eyes seeking understanding: “I know it’s too difficult, but I owe her too much. I can’t just watch her throw eggs at rocks and seek death.”

Liu Heita knew the whole story best. Thinking of Gu Pingyuan’s promise to Teacher Bai on his deathbed, seeing the extreme difficulty on his face, all his words stuck in his throat as he sighed heavily.

Seeing the bad situation – Master Gu really intended to rescue someone from a well – Peng Haiwan worried that angering Two Jiang officialdom would ruin their business. His eyes rolled: “Master Gu, I suggest consulting with someone – perhaps he has solutions.”

“That Lord Qiao we met that day is an official figure – maybe he has connections.” Peng Haiwan was feinting. His sharp eyes had seen Qiao Henian was practical and Gu Pingyuan’s good friend. Knowing this matter, he’d surely advise against acting impulsively, perhaps changing his mind.

“Good, I’ll find him immediately.” Regardless of the late hour, Gu Pingyuan hurried off like grasping a lifeline. Behind him, in the bedroom window, someone watched him leave – motionless and silent, only closing their eyes as if two tears slowly slid down their cheeks.

Secretary Hao was awakened at midnight, took the sedan Qiao Henian sent, and arrived at the Qiao residence in a daze. Qiao Henian had rented a small two-courtyard house near Jiming Temple. Secretary Hao visited frequently and went directly to the front parlor without announcement.

“Oh, Brother Gu, you’re here too.” Secretary Hao spoke, seeing both men’s grave expressions, couldn’t help saying: “Something must have happened.”

“You fear others throwing eggs at rocks, yet you want to be a moth to flame – what’s your plan?” After hearing Gu Pingyuan’s account, Secretary Hao shook his head repeatedly.

“See, I told you Secretary Hao would also object.” Qiao Henian couldn’t persuade Gu Pingyuan alone, so he’d invited Secretary Hao too.

“This matter was clearly Li Qin’s doing – how can we confusedly wrong these salt workers? I only ask to withdraw Li Wantang’s document. How they patch up this affair afterward, I won’t interfere further.”

“How confused you are! Now Li Wantang wants to escape guilt by using salt workers as scapegoats. He calculated that no one dared speak for salt workers or investigate thoroughly. Yet you insist on jumping out to oppose an entire province’s officials – isn’t this too foolish!” Qiao Henian criticized unceremoniously.

“Yes, Li Wantang designed to harm people, and the salt workers can’t avoid this trap. First, they truly were rebels against the court – harboring such evil intentions is reasonable; second, they built the sea dike themselves – finding fault with them for problems is logical. Li Wantang’s calculations were flawless.” Secretary Hao thought aloud: “From criminal investigation perspective, salt workers had motive and opportunity, plus criminal records. This case is hard to overturn!”

“There’s more. Once I tell you, you’ll completely give up hope.” Qiao Henian looked at Gu Pingyuan, still pondering desperately: “At evening, the British diplomatic note arrived.”

Gu Pingyuan’s head snapped up, asking urgently: “What did the foreigners say?”

After Qiao Henian recounted the diplomatic note’s contents, Gu Pingyuan was dumbfounded. The British note contained two conditions. First, the British Consul stated that his nationals were killed in the Qing due to inadequate local official protection. When the British Consulate held memorial services, the Two Jiang Governor-General must personally attend and pay respects.

“Lord Zeng naturally won’t go to the foreign consulate to bow to a foreign woman. But this demand could potentially be changed – reportedly both the Provincial Treasurer and Judge are willing to go in Lord Zeng’s place.” The Provincial Treasurer and Judge were second and third-ranking officials after the Governor-General. Two together could match one Governor-General in protocol. As for their own dignity, if they could shield Zeng Guofan from disaster and humiliation, future rewards would be considerable – they couldn’t worry about such things.

“The truly difficult part is the second condition.”

This was Richard the foreigner’s demand. As the victim whose wife was first raped then murdered, he naturally hated the rioters bitterly. He said he was present, and though unable to save his wife, he saw at least thirty people in the assaulting crowd. He wanted all thirty to pay with their lives for his wife.

“Understand now? The foreigner wants thirty bloody heads – where can Lord Zeng find them? Of course, if treated as a real case with house-to-house investigations, these people aren’t uncatchable. But think about it – the local magistrate helped the Li family forcibly conscript labor, while people starved to one meal daily yet risked their lives building dikes. The completed sea dike collapsed in under two months, flooding villages and farmland, drowning many. How could the people not be driven mad? If authorities now went there to arrest people for public execution where the foreign woman died, it would drive over a hundred thousand disaster victims to desperation. If someone raised the cry, another Taiping Heavenly Kingdom might emerge.”

“Your Excellency speaks most reasonably.” Secretary Hao looked admiringly at Qiao Henian, then continued persuading Gu Pingyuan: “Governor-General Zeng, having governed border regions, understands affairs extremely well. He absolutely won’t go to Yancheng to arrest and kill people. But the foreign diplomatic note has deadlines and cannot be ignored, or great chaos will result. So only the salt workers can be sacrificed. Ultimately, they’re all rebels – even beheaded, it’s not unjust.”

“Truly no solution?” Gu Pingyuan frowned tightly.

“Brother, stop thinking. Kill dozens of Taiping remnants, exchange for provincial peace. Count your abacus beads – this account is profitable.”

“Unfortunately, it won’t bring provincial peace.” Thinking of Bai Yimei’s words, Gu Pingyuan murmured: “Human lives shouldn’t be calculated this way.”

“Brother, what did you say?” Secretary Hao didn’t hear clearly.

Gu Pingyuan suddenly slammed the table: “Lord Qiao, this calculation is wrong – terribly wrong!”

“How so?”

“Governor-General Zeng only considers that hundreds of thousands of coastal disaster victims might rebel, but why doesn’t he think whether wrongly accused salt workers might rebel? These people thought they could trade hard labor for life, working as salt workers to atone for crimes. Who knew they’d be innocent scapegoats? This matter isn’t their doing, yet they’d be charged with sabotaging sea dikes and publicly executed. Forget whether they can swallow this injustice – other salt workers will be terrified, certainly thinking: ‘What about next time? Whose turn will it be to die?’ They’ll live in constant fear. With tens of thousands feeling this way, how could they not rebel!”

Qiao Henian and Secretary Hao stared at each other, nodding simultaneously after a long pause.

Secretary Hao struck his flint, lit his pipe, puffed several times, and exhaled smoke: “You’ve thought into the salt workers’ hearts. True – if it were me, I’d certainly consider rebelling again.”

“I heard salt workers’ families and children are imprisoned to prevent rash actions, but that’s normally effective. Once salt workers are used as scapegoats, this method becomes useless. Think about it – whether you stick out your neck or shrink it, it’s still one blow. Why wouldn’t salt workers fight to the death for a quick end rather than live in daily terror?” Gu Pingyuan continued.

“At dawn, I’ll go to the yamen and relay your words to Lord Zeng. Using salt workers as scapegoats seems unworkable.” After hearing Gu Pingyuan’s words, Qiao Henian changed his mind.

Now Gu Pingyuan slowly shook his head instead.

“What? Doesn’t this fulfill your wish and exonerate the salt workers?” Secretary Hao asked puzzledly.

Gu Pingyuan smiled bitterly: “Lord Qiao, Brother Hao, you’ve surely heard of ‘drinking poison to quench thirst.’ The salt workers are now this cup of poison – though toxic, it’s slow-acting. Whether Lord Zeng accepts my view or not, he must drink this cup Li Wantang served, or die of thirst.”

Qiao Henian drew breath, staring at Gu Pingyuan for a long time before slowly nodding.

“Then what can be done? As you said, stick out your neck or shrink it – still one blow. Must Jiangnan descend into chaos?”

“Unless someone can give him a cup of real antidote to replace this poisoned wine – that would truly resolve Lord Zeng’s predicament. Unfortunately, I’ve thought long but can’t imagine any method to replace Li Wantang’s scheme.”

Hearing this, Qiao Henian stood and paced the room, constantly circling. Secretary Hao’s pipe went out and was relit, relit and went out again. Gu Pingyuan, thinking of Bai Yimei’s words, felt desperately anxious but could think of no solution.

After an unknown time, the rooster that Jiming Temple kept – reportedly the loudest crowing in Jiangning City – stretched its neck and called. The nine-jin yellow rooster’s call was truly piercing. All three men looked toward the window simultaneously as dawn light entered the room.

“Sigh!” Gu Pingyuan suddenly stood. He planned to find Bai Yimei and stop her somehow – he couldn’t let her seek death trying to save Chen Yucheng’s former troops.

Just then, Gu Pingyuan suddenly heard from behind—

“Perhaps… I might barely attempt it.”

Gu Pingyuan turned around. Both he and Secretary Hao looked at Qiao Henian in disbelief.

“Really?” Gu Pingyuan truly doubted he’d heard wrong, asking tremblingly.

Qiao Henian nodded: “But you must help me.”

“Lord Qiao, need this even be said? You’re willing to help me with this favor – Gu is infinitely grateful. Whatever you want me to do, just command.”

Qiao Henian smiled. Gu Pingyuan’s gratitude was secondary – the key was his words “that would truly resolve Lord Zeng’s predicament” that moved Qiao Henian’s heart. He understood clearly: whoever handled this matter perfectly, appeasing both disaster victims and foreigners, would be Zeng Guofan’s foremost capable official in Jiangning, with rapid advancement imminent.

“Don’t be hasty. I’ll go to the Governor-General’s office first – this still depends on whether Governor-General Zeng agrees.”

“Your humble servant came to the Two Jiang provinces barely a month ago. My greatest regret is not following Your Excellency closely during the decade of quelling great rebellion, serving like a dog or horse. Now having an opportunity to exert myself for Your Excellency, I must devote all efforts and never disappoint Your Excellency.”

“Qiao Henian, this is no child’s play. Any error would plunge the newly pacified Two Jiang provinces back into warfare, possibly with both popular rebellion and foreign troops arriving simultaneously. Then you, as the handling official, would bear the brunt.” Zeng Guofan gazed at Qiao Henian for a long time before speaking slowly.

“Please rest assured, Your Excellency. Your humble servant is not one to waste his career recklessly. Since I dare go, naturally I’m confident.”

“How do you plan to proceed?”

“This… your humble servant cannot say.” Qiao Henian lowered his head.

Xue Fucheng said from the side: “Lord Zeng is Two Jiang Governor-General, controlling military and political affairs of several provinces. In such a crucial matter, you respond so carelessly – surely you don’t intend to improvise?”

“Replying to Your Excellency, actually your humble servant has a plan, but explaining it would only trouble Your Excellency. Better not to speak. When accomplished facts emerge, should the court blame anyone, just say your humble servant acted urgently according to circumstances – Your Excellency knew nothing beforehand and can so report.”

After hearing this, Zeng Guofan pondered silently. This meant Qiao Henian planned extraordinary measures to solve this matter – methods either contrary to court law or unacceptable to orthodox scholars. Whether the problem could be solved remained unknown, possibly bringing new troubles.

Qiao Henian’s eyes were full of sincerity. He straightened and looked directly at Zeng Guofan: “Should anything go wrong, please assign all blame to your humble servant. I willingly accept punishment.” On his journey here, he’d decided this step, once taken, allowed no retreat. Like gambling at cards – one flip, two stares – no harmony possible. Either win a full pot or lose even your pants.

Qiao Henian’s words meant willingly becoming Zeng Guofan’s scapegoat. Though speaking thus as a fourth-rank circuit intendant was presumptuous, his intention was touching. Zeng Guofan, showing no emotion, picked up Qiao Henian’s submitted credentials to review.

“According to your record, you lifted the siege of Hefei.”

“That was also urgent action.” Qiao Henian answered honestly.

“Hmm. When all provincial officials were besieged in the city, you shouldered great responsibility with minor rank, remaining calm in crisis to recruit Cheng Xueqi’s surrender, coordinating inside and outside to repel Chen Yucheng – truly not easy.” Zeng Guofan always judged people strictly. In peaceful times doing official duties, everyone seemed similar – only when seas flowed across could heroic nature be seen. He himself was an example – as a Hanlin in the capital, just an ordinary third-rank official, but encountering Taiping rebellion, favorable circumstances enabled him to rise rapidly as “the empire’s foremost minister.” From this fourth-rank circuit intendant lifting Hefei’s siege, the man had courage and insight – a formidable character.

“Thank you for the praise, Your Excellency. Huizhou merchant Gu Pingyuan also contributed greatly then. He recently built a sea dike for Nantong that proved indestructible in this tidal disaster, earning excellent popular reputation. Your humble servant plans to invite him along, having him supervise rebuilding Yancheng’s sea dike.”

“So you and Master Gu are old acquaintances – that’s excellent.” Zeng Guofan immediately understood this was leveraging Gu Pingyuan’s reputation. Otherwise, sending others to build sea dikes wouldn’t convince disaster victims. Gu Pingyuan’s fish-scale dike had become a golden signboard – probably the only person locals trusted. As for rebuilding costs, naturally the Li family would pay.

This Qiao Henian could handle great affairs with such thoughtful planning. Zeng Guofan decided to entrust this matter to him.

“Thank you for Your Excellency’s support. Your humble servant would be crushed to powder to handle this matter properly before returning to report.”

“How many troops do you need from this governor?” With rioters everywhere, too few soldiers might prevent entering Yancheng.

“Not many troops needed, but I’d like to borrow two things from Your Excellency. First, an imperial command tablet allowing execution before reporting. Second, I heard the Yancheng magistrate has been arrested and returned to Jiangning – please let your humble servant take him to Yancheng.”

Zeng Guofan raised an eyebrow, warning: “Though the magistrate is only seventh rank, he’s still a court official. You absolutely cannot execute him arbitrarily.”

“Your Excellency can rest assured. Your humble servant will not harm a hair on the magistrate’s head and will definitely return him intact to Two Jiang prison.”

Qiao Henian maintained his smile throughout, puzzling even Zeng Guofan, who thought he’d guessed his intentions. Looking at his inscrutable confidence, he truly seemed to have everything planned. Yet this was such a major matter that even Zeng Guofan personally going couldn’t guarantee satisfying both sides. Qiao Henian seemed completely certain. Zeng Guofan glanced at Secretary Xue, whose gaze met his – both saw neither could fathom what extraordinary strategy this circuit intendant would employ to resolve this crisis.