A powerful minister of the Song Dynasty

Chapter 445 Congratulations on your fortune! (Bonus Chapter with 2 words, please vote!)

"Your Majesty, are you really not going to consider my suggestion?"

Song Xuan's question caused Liu E to pause in surprise.

It seems he hasn't given up yet.

He looked like he hadn't given up.

Liu E had to explain, "Song Twelve, that matter is over. Now it's something else."

Song Xuan looked like he hadn't had enough: "Since it's the Empress's arrangement and Magistrate Song's request, I naturally won't object. But could I promote some of my subordinates in Kaifeng County?"

"can."

Liu E was eager for Song Xuan to quickly decide who he wanted to promote.

Instead of chasing after advice to change one's mind about the matter at hand.

"It happened so suddenly. I'll go back and check the list of people, and then I'll tell the Empress Dowager."

"No need."

Liu E directly rejected Song Xuan's request:

"There's no need to submit a memorial about such trivial matters. I'm too old to handle them all."

She naturally focused on the big picture and let go of the small details.

She had no interest in a minor position like a county magistrate or registrar in a small county government office.

Song Xuan's list wasn't of the current prime ministers, so she needed to carefully balance the power dynamics within the court and think things through thoroughly.

"Song Twelve, Song Boxiang is being targeted like this because of taxation, and you are being slandered like this just because you have a daughter. Have you ever thought about why?"

Song Xuan clicked his tongue: "I have offended quite a few people."

Liu E felt that Song Xuan's words made sense, but also made no sense.

Are there as many people you've offended as your father-in-law has?
It seems he genuinely didn't know he was being targeted by his father-in-law's rival.

Liu E trusted the two of them.

Firstly, they were all newly appointed scholars, and their minds weren't that deep.

Secondly, he didn't have much influence in the court, and he wasn't the son-in-law of a prime minister.

Thirdly, promoting those who rose from humble beginnings makes them easier to use for her purposes.

It's very difficult for Song Xuan and his group to form factions at higher levels.

In their current positions, without an inside recommendation or guarantee, it would be very difficult for either of them to be brought into the prime minister's circle.

Liu E said, "You seem to know quite a bit."

"I am still aware of my own limitations," Song Xuan said with a hint of helplessness.
"But I am not by nature combative. If I had to choose again, I would still do the same thing."

"Enough, enough." Liu E waved her hand.

"I don't mean to blame you, but please don't be so extreme in your actions in the future."

"You should learn more from Song Boxiang and be more gentle in your dealings with others."

"Here."

Song Xuan responded and sat back down.

"I just received news that the Khitans are already on their way with a large amount of gold. Song Twelve, congratulations on your fortune."

"What kind of money are you trying to make? You have to manage the river and provide disaster relief."

"The money for the iron furnace last year, as well as the money for the coal sold to disaster victims as subsidies, has not been paid yet. The county government is so poor that it is almost begging for food."

Hearing Song Xuan's words, Liu E chuckled softly.

Like Song Xuan, who didn't ask me for money when he encountered problems, but instead actively solved his financial issues himself.

Moreover, he doesn't pocket much money himself; such a good subordinate is truly hard to find.

Song Xiang smiled as well.

He felt that although Song Xuan appeared to spend money like water, he probably still had a lot of money in the cellar.

Song Xiang felt he needed to learn from the practice of feigning poverty to his superiors even when he had money.

Moreover, he's truly broke and needs money even more.

The most important thing right now is to stabilize Xiangfu County. Anyway, asking the empress for money doesn't mean the money will go into our own pockets.

“Song Boxiang, you should learn a thing or two from Song Twelve in this regard.”

"I understand, sir."

Song Xiang cupped his hands in greeting, his eyes filled with genuine envy for Song Xuan's money-making methods.

Unfortunately, Xiangfu County today has little chance of replicating this model.

All that Song Xuan said was just about doing the accounting.

We need to prepare a little stash for Sixth Brother; his money will be useful someday.

“Your Majesty, Zhou Derong, the county magistrate of Kaifeng County, has not been promoted in over ten years. He has been busy with various matters. I wonder if it would be possible to give him a position as a county magistrate and send him out to work?”

Liu E nodded slightly, and she thought for a moment:
“Since he is also capable, let’s transfer him to Huazhou. When these disaster victims return to their hometowns, they won’t linger.”

"As for which county, you can decide for yourself. See where there are the most disaster victims, and then write a memorial to the throne."

“Yes, sir.” Song Xuan responded repeatedly.

Liu E delegated a great deal of authority.

It's as if you can assign this subordinate to any county you want.

She'll approve it directly then.

Song Xuan nodded, having achieved his goal, and said no more.

"Tokyo is too chaotic these days, with all sorts of people standing up and stirring things up at will."

"Do you think they're dissatisfied with you two top scorers, or with this old woman like me?"

Liu E's sudden question left Song Xiang speechless.

Song Xuan then spoke up:

"Of course they're dissatisfied with me, and by extension, with the Empress Dowager. Everyone in the world wants them to be in charge, only then will they be satisfied."

"You, you."

Liu E pointed at Song Xuan, quite satisfied with his explanation.

"They always manage to come up with some new excuses for me."

Liu E loved hearing this kind of talk; even if the cause of the matter lay with her, she couldn't really be blamed.

Song Xiang blinked, still not understanding why Song Xuan had blurted it out.

“But Song Twelve is right, Bo Xiang, you should learn more from him.”

"Here."

Song Xiang nodded.

Now he understands why Song Xuan is so likable.

Not only did they handle things beautifully, but they also spoke beautifully.

In addition, she's good-looking, so it's hard to dislike her at first glance.

Can't compare.

It truly cannot compare in any aspect.

In front of him, Song Xiang felt that he was still too inexperienced. Before he could think of his words, Song Xuan blurted them out.

Liu E was also satisfied with Song Xuan.

Although Song Xiang was honest and kind, he was not particularly likable.

He keeps his mouth shut, as if he doesn't have one.

And so the conversation ended happily.

Liu E watched the two of them leave, still feeling very happy.

After leaving the palace, Song Xiang said to Song Xuan:
“Cousin, you can make the decision about who to choose. I trust your character.”

"Okay, I won't let them do a bad job."

Song Xuan then reminded him:

"But my cousin always managed to find some ways to make money; they also had to support their families in Tokyo."

"I will find a way to make money as soon as possible."

Song Xuan didn't say anything more. After saying goodbye to him, he directly called Ban Feng over.

"My lord, where are we going?"

"Let's go back to the county government office first."

"Here."

County Lieutenant Ban Feng immediately gave the order, and had his guards set up to escort the high-ranking official back to the county government office.

"Teacher, come for a walk with me."

"My lord, is there anything else you require?"

County Lieutenant Ban Feng lagged half a step behind, his body slightly hunched.

"You've been in the position of county constable for many years, haven't you?"

"Correct."

Ban Feng nodded repeatedly. Why was the master suddenly asking such a question? Did he mean to kick him out?
Do you want a promotion?

"No, I only wish to protect you, my lord."

"Come on, stop being so stubborn."

Song Xuan walked slowly with his hands behind his back:

"Water flows downhill, and people strive for higher positions; who wouldn't want their official rank to rise?"

"I, for one, am actually hoping to become prime minister."

"Don't you want to wear a crimson robe like me and walk around outside?"

Ban Feng certainly wanted to.

He would die without regret if he could wear red robes in this lifetime.

He wouldn't even dare to dream of a higher position; it was simply unrealistic.

For someone who wasn't a Jinshi (a successful candidate in the highest imperial examinations), wearing purple robes was practically impossible.

Of course, if you have made great contributions or are someone who was born in the emperor's former residence, then it's quite easy.

There are still quite a few people like this in the imperial court today.

"Just think about it." Song Xuan continued to look around.

"As you know, something happened in Xiangfu County, and we need someone to go there to quell the unrest."

Ban Feng looked up, thinking that if he were to become a county magistrate, he would have to think it over carefully.

After all, Xiangfu County is still quite poor.

When he arrived there, he had no one of usable people to command, far less suitable than working under a high-ranking official.

After all, the official in front of them was truly protective of his own and was willing to clean up the mess left by their group.

"However, I find you easy to use, so I politely declined."

Ban Feng's heart, which had been hanging in suspense, died again.

It's okay if I don't get promoted.

At least by following this high-ranking official, there is still hope for further advancement in the future.

He's got the ambition to be prime minister, so how could he possibly leave me out of my duties?

Moreover, Ban Feng believed that Song Xuan had a very good chance of becoming prime minister.

"Therefore, I plan to appoint you as the assistant magistrate of Kaifeng County, replacing Zhou Derong. What do you think?"

Ban Feng stood there, completely stunned.

He was taken aback by Song Xuan's sudden good news.

Ban Feng never expected that he could not only get a promotion, but also continue to stay in Kaifeng County and follow Master Song.

Such a large pancake was unexpectedly smashed onto his head.

Ban Feng felt dizzy and disoriented.

His legs went weak and he fell to his knees before Song Xuan.

This isn't just a superior, he's practically a godfather!
"Twelfth Brother," Xu Xianchun reminded him.
"It seems that County Magistrate Ban has suddenly fallen ill."

"what?"

Song Xuan then turned around and, seeing Ban Feng's behavior, quickly had Wang Bao help him up.

"You didn't have breakfast?"

"My lord, it's me, it's me."

Ban Feng was so excited he couldn't utter a single word.

After so many years, this hope was about to be dashed, but it actually came true!

"I really want a promotion, I really want one."

"real!"

Ban Feng even wanted to yell and shout.

However, with Song Xuan in front of him, he dared not vent his anger.

Wang Bao could feel that Ban Feng was trembling all over:

"Could it be that he is really sick, that's why he's shaking so badly?"

"Go to Ma Xing Street."

Song Xuan gave an instruction.

"My lord, I'm fine, I'm really fine."

"Let's go take a look."

Song Xuan was a little worried that Ban Feng would be like Fan Jin after passing the imperial examination.

If someone gets so excited that they become stupid for a while, it's still quite embarrassing for their deputy to have this past.

The attending physician examined Ban Feng's pulse and prescribed some calming medicine to help him calm down.

Although Ban Feng spent money, he didn't care about such a small amount.

I'm afraid I'll become the county magistrate in the future.

Just thinking about it makes me excited.

Song Xuan made Ban Feng wait at the pharmacy for a while, then had someone prepare a dose of medicine for him on the spot, and told him to drink it before leaving.

"Your pharmacy is really thriving."

Song Xuan sat to the side and exclaimed in admiration.

The apprentice standing nearby chuckled and told Song Xuan that this was a street lined with medical clinics.

The night market stayed open until the third watch of the night, and then reopened at the fifth watch.

Prosperity is the key to making money and supporting one's family.

"Do you get enough sleep on weekdays?"

Looking at these medical students, Song Xuan realized that they had indeed suffered from ancient times to the present.

"Thank you for your concern, sir. We are already used to it. We just hope to graduate soon so we can take turns sitting in the clinic and won't be so tired."

"Otherwise, if you're not in good spirits, it's easy to make mistakes when diagnosing patients' pulses."

"Ah."

Song Xuan nodded.

The pharmacies on this street are divided into general and specialized hospitals.

An official Imperial Medical Bureau medicine sales office has not yet appeared.

During the reign of Emperor Shenzong of Song, this practice mainly involved standardized processing and sales of prepared medicines, along with certain social welfare benefits.

Especially during epidemics, it helps to stabilize drug prices.

The commercial taxes levied on pharmacies are also quite substantial.

When the attending physician took a break, Song Xuan chatted with him, asking if he had encountered any difficulties.

The doctor explained that some medicinal herbs cannot be stored for long periods and need to be processed promptly to preserve their medicinal properties.

Nowadays, at the new wharf, there are long queues of medicinal herbs that urgently need to be processed. Apprentices have to carry them back by walking sixty miles back and forth, which is extremely hard work.

The carriage and horse transport company had very limited capacity; it relied mainly on ships to transport far and wide to Tokyo.

Song Xuan nodded:
"What you said makes sense. I'll go back and look into it, and resolve this issue for you as soon as possible."

The attending physician was momentarily stunned, assuming that Song Xuan had brought his subordinates to see the doctor.

Anyway, we were just chatting casually, so I took the liberty of saying it, not expecting any great solution.

After all, the actual situation is what it is.

The problem is insufficient transportation capacity.

"Thank you very much, sir!"

The attending physician bowed solemnly.

The mere fact that the top scholar from the Song Dynasty came to their pharmacy for treatment was enough to bring them great honor.

The title of Song Zhuangyuan (the top scholar in the imperial examination) has such a "celebrity" effect that it is sought after by many.

If word gets out, his suggestion will allow other pharmaceutical companies in the same industry to receive priority in transporting their products.

His standing among his peers would also rise, as they would believe he could speak with Master Song.

"It doesn't matter, it doesn't matter."

Song Xuan then told him that he had to understand the current situation, as there were so many disaster victims outside the city who needed to make a living.

It's better to take this opportunity to repair the river than to have floods every year that submerge the streets, leaving you nowhere to dry your medicine.

The doctor sitting in the ward quickly said he understood, and would be extremely grateful if Master Song could solve the problem.

Song Xuan left with his men.

The doctors and others still found it unbelievable.

Some curious colleagues came to ask, "What is the top scholar Song doing here?"
He naturally showered Song with praise, saying that the official was considerate of the people's plight and had promptly transported medicinal herbs to them.

Everyone thought he was bragging. Why would Master Song give special treatment to a medicine merchant?
Even if he's supposed to take care of you, why should he take care of your family?
"If you don't believe me, just wait and see."

"Hehe, just wait and see. You're bragging about your relationship with Little Song Tai Sui. Why don't you take a piss and look in the mirror?"

"Hahaha."

The crowd burst into laughter.

Anyway, people don't mind watching the excitement and making things worse.

Upon returning to the county government office, Song Xuan first wrote a note instructing Ban Feng to reimburse the medical expenses incurred during his treatment.

Ban Feng was somewhat bewildered:
"My lord, I don't have much money."

“Although it’s not much money, you still insisted on working even though you got sick during your shift. Go collect your pay first, and then I’ll tell you something else.”

"Yes, thank you for your kindness, sir."

Ban Feng knew that Master Song was taking care of him, so he quickly went to find Qian Gansan, the Registrar, to get reimbursed.

Qian Gansan saw that it was a note approved by Master Song, and it was the first time he had ever seen medical expenses for illness reimbursed.

He could only admire the way Master Song was so generous with his money. He said that Master Song was really looking out for County Magistrate Ban, and then he directly gave him the money.

Ban Feng had a constant smile on his face ever since he found out.

While everyone else in the pharmacy was sighing and groaning, Ban Feng was the only one who was sick, constantly grinning foolishly and attracting attention.

Ban Feng smirked, secretly thinking, "It won't be long before you all need to change how you address me."

"My lord, I'm back."

Ban Feng showed no signs of his previous weak and timid demeanor; after taking the medicine, he was no longer the same person.

“Okay, go and make a notice that the government will rent wheelbarrows from them to the dock for freight transport. Light goods such as medicinal herbs can be transported first, while heavy goods will be transported by horse-drawn carriage companies.”

"In this way, many women and elderly people can also earn more wages here. As for the monthly rental fee, you can go and investigate the market."

"Here."

Ban Feng turned to leave excitedly, but was stopped again:
"Do not assign any tasks to the head of the third shift; I have other arrangements."

"Here."

Ban Feng knew that his successor would likely be one of these three.

The transition from clerk to official is a class leap.

I just don't know who is capable of doing the job.

He certainly hoped that his trusted confidant, Zhang Dutou, would be promoted.

Unfortunately, it's really hard to guess what the official is thinking.

Song Xuan did not think that making a round trip of sixty li by pushing a handcart to transport goods was an easy task.

But for now, at least it can create a number of jobs.

There are too many people in Tokyo.

There aren't that many job openings.

Song Xuan shook his head, then suddenly wanted to laugh.

If this wheelbarrow transportation becomes an industry chain, the most profitable people will probably not be people like Liu Bei who weave mats and sell shoes.

Whether it's weaving straw sandals or straw hats.

Those are all practically useful for the transportation industry. A round trip of sixty li (approximately 30 kilometers) requires pushing a small cart several times a day; the straw sandals would probably break before they could even hold up.

Zhang Fangping, accompanied by Zhao Zhen, inspected the river channel today.

"Wang Bao, summon Magistrate Zhou to me."

"Yes."

Zhou Derong knew that Song Xuan had been the subject of some rumors lately, but seeing that he didn't care at all, he really didn't understand.

"County Magistrate Zhou, congratulations on your fortune!"

"what?"

Zhou Derong was greatly surprised.

Since Song Xuan arrived, he hasn't taken any bribes for a long time, fearing he'll be caught and fired.

"My lord, I have been wronged!"

"I have always been diligent and conscientious, and I dare not have the slightest greed. I have not dared to touch a single penny of the money in the county government."

"I hope that Your Excellency will be able to see the truth and not believe the words of a petty person."

"Oh, it's a misunderstanding, a misunderstanding."

Song Xuan chuckled: "Magistrate Zhou, I'm congratulating you on your promotion."

"Gaosheng?"

Zhou Derong's voice rose several octaves as he stared in disbelief and exclaimed:

"Magistrate Zhou?"

"My lord, are you perhaps joking?"

“As you know, something happened in Xiangfu County, and I recommended you to the Empress Dowager.”

"what?"

Zhou Derong was momentarily stunned:

"How could I possibly go to Xiangfu County to serve as magistrate? Wouldn't that be like a lamb entering a tiger's den?"

"My lord, please save me! I have always done as you have instructed and would never dare to overstep my bounds."

After giving Zhou Derong another warning, Song Xuan told him to calm down:

"Stop dreaming. You're not qualified to be the magistrate of Xiangfu County. I have a bronze mirror here. Take a look at yourself and see if you're fit to be the magistrate of this great land."

Hearing Song Xuan's humiliating words, Zhou Derong actually breathed a sigh of relief.

That's good.

Since it's a promotion, it certainly won't be a lateral transfer.

Do you expect me to work for the Kaifeng government office?
No, no, it's Magistrate Zhou!
"Don't be so startled, let me finish what I have to say."

Song Xuan tapped the table:
“Huazhou is suffering from floods and is in need of people to do the reconstruction work. I recommended you to the Empress Dowager. Huazhou has five counties under its jurisdiction. You can choose one to be the magistrate.”

"Should I choose one to be the county magistrate?"

He had never heard anyone say such a thing in his life, that there would be such an opportunity to become an official!
In all his years as an official, Zhou Derong had never fought such a costly battle.

Being appointed as a county magistrate is already a great blessing.

I can still choose!
"My lord, is this truly the truth?"

Zhou Derong was quite excited.

He has been the runner-up in Kaifeng County for twelve years.

So many years have passed, and he has gone from being in his prime to entering old age.

I thought I'd never have the chance in my life, and I was just waiting to retire, get promoted, and go back to my hometown.

"My lord, please don't always speak in jest."

"If a pie were to fall on your head, you wouldn't even know to eat it, and you'd keep doubting yourself. Why don't you take a good look at yourself in the mirror and see what makes you vulnerable to being taken advantage of?"

"No, no, no."

Song Xuan's blunt words made him realize that the matter was true.

This is not a joke.

Especially since he was recommended to Song Xuan by the Empress Dowager, he really wanted to kowtow to him and call him godfather!
The high official wasn't humiliating me at all; he was clearly promoting me.

Song Xuan told him the names of the five counties.

"Baima County is the seat of the prefecture, but I will absolutely not go there!"

Zhou Derong was the first to reject this idea of ​​a county attached to the city wall; he was tired of it.

Even if that place is developing well and has a bright future.

However, they were also constantly suppressed by the prefect.

If they're still stuck with being number two for years, then I'm definitely not going.

He finally seized the opportunity to rise in rank, and he was determined to become the top leader.

Try having the final say on everything.

In his excitement, Zhou Derong didn't forget to ask his old leader for advice:
"My lord, the other four counties seem to be about the same to me. I hope you can give me some advice."

Song Xuan didn't stand on ceremony: "Then Linghe County it is."

"Linghe County?" Zhou Derong didn't have a map in front of him.
"I hope that you, sir, can enlighten me."

“Last year, the Yellow River breached its banks during a flood. I was ordered to inspect and investigate in Huazhou. I discovered that Linghe County is located on the north bank of the Huachuan River, near Ligudu.”

This place marks the starting point of the fourth major course change in the Yellow River's history, which occurred during the Southern Song Dynasty when Du Chongren breached the dike to block the Jin army, leading to the Yellow River overflowing its banks, diverting into the Huai River, and flowing into the sea.

As a result, Du Chong, the garrison commander of Tokyo, not only failed to use this to stop the Jin army, but also caused more than 200,000 local people to drown.

The death toll from the Yellow River floods causing displacement and rampant epidemics has multiplied.

The Lianghuai region, the most prosperous and wealthy area in the Northern Song Dynasty, was destroyed in an instant, leaving nearly ten million people homeless and turning them into refugees.

Eight hundred years later, another genius decided to use water as a weapon to blast open the Garden Pass.

The damage caused to the people by the breached dikes was even greater than this time.

“This place has experienced breaches many times since the Tang and Song dynasties, but I heard that Han Chongyun and Wang Tingyi, famous generals in the early Song dynasty, led soldiers to protect the new dike. Twelve years later, Guo Shouwen presided over the project to protect the breached Linghe River in Linghe County.”

“I went to see it, and the construction there is well done. There is no risk of breaching the dike in the short term.”

"The key is that there is still coal to be mined within the territory."

“After these disaster-stricken people return home, you can, in your capacity as county magistrate, request the imperial court to send the Directorate of Works to guide them in mining and selling coal.”

“Your government can hire workers and pay a large amount of taxes to the court, and the people can also benefit.”

"Moreover, it is located on the north bank of the Yellow River, where it is even colder in winter, and the iron furnace requires a lot of coal."

After Song Xuan said so much, Zhou Derong was overjoyed.

This place has a ferry crossing that also serves as a water conservancy project, and it also has coal mines, which can generate profits.

Zhou Derong greatly admired the ingenious use of the iron furnace.

Apart from the current official Song, no one had come up with this idea since the discovery of coal.

No wonder he was able to win all three titles.

"I am very grateful to you for your guidance, sir. I will never forget such kindness."

"It doesn't matter."

Song Xuan waved his hand and smiled:
"We are colleagues, and in the future, we must be able to face the officials and the Empress Dowager, the common people, and our own conscience with our actions."

"If you can do that, your future will not be limited to the position of a minor county magistrate."

"I understand, thank you for your recommendation, sir."

Zhou Derong then began to demonstrate his loyalty.

In the future, the business of selling iron stoves will continue to have many connections with Tokyo.

"This matter should be handled according to the old rules. Do not let it reach the Khitans. Let them burn cow and sheep dung in the winter."

"Yes, yes, I will remember."

Song Xuan nodded:
"The appointment will be announced in a while. In the meantime, you should show more care and concern for the people of Linghe County, and you should keep a low profile when handing over your position to Ban Feng. He will take your place."

"This matter will be announced after the appointment letter is issued, understand?"

Zhou Derong raised his head, then lowered it again and agreed.

"Yes, I know you know what's important. If someone covets it, the position won't be so easy to get, and you won't be able to choose it as you please."

"I understand!"

County Magistrate Zhou Delong made a gesture indicating that he would sew his mouth shut.

But the corners of his mouth were always turned up.

Who wouldn't want to get promoted and make money?
I'm so happy!

After arranging things for him, Song Xuan sent someone to summon the registrar Zheng Wenhuan.

"Old Zheng, congratulations!"

"My lord, please speak frankly. What is the source of my joy?"

Zheng Wenhuan sat to the side, completely bewildered.

"Something happened to people in Xiangfu County. I believe you've heard about it."

Song Xuan also avoided using bureaucratic jargon:
“My cousin Song Xiang asked me to send some capable men to support him, so I recommended you to the Empress Dowager to serve as the magistrate of Xiangfu County. What do you think?”

"I?"

"The Assistant Magistrate of Xiangfu County!"

Zheng Wenhuan's hand, stroking his beard, was slightly agitated. He was holding a few whiskers in his hand, which was quite painful for him.

"Yes, now that I've been promoted, I'm bound to go out and make a name for myself."

"Don't be afraid, Magistrate Song is backing you up, and the Empress Dowager is standing behind you."

Are you confident you can do a good job?

"Yes, yes, yes, I have so much."

"My lord, I guarantee I can do a good job."

Zheng Wenhuan nodded repeatedly, indicating that he would definitely seize the opportunity and give it his all.

He originally thought that when this happened in Xiangfu County, he could just watch the excitement and laugh at the other side.

After all, everyone in Kaifeng County has a strong sense of superiority.

But because of the incident in Xiangfu County, he was able to get promoted immediately, which felt amazing.

"Row."

Kaifeng County has undergone a major reshuffle, and Song Xuan instructed him to keep it a secret for now and await the official appointment.

To prevent the news from leaking out and someone from intercepting it midway.

Zheng Wenhuan repeatedly assured him that since Master Song had said he was going to work under his cousin, he would still be working under Master Song.

As a clerk, Qian Gansan did not sit like the other three officials, but stood respectfully.

"Sit down." Song Xuan poured him a cup of tea.

"You'll have plenty of opportunities to sit down in the future, so one or two more won't make a difference."

Qian Gansan didn't understand, but he still obediently sat down opposite Song Xuan.

He listened carefully, and it seemed that the official was praising him before dropping a bombshell.

"I intend to promote you to the position of Registrar of this county."

clack.

Qian Gansan was already sitting halfway down in the chair when he heard Song Xuan's words, and he lost his balance and fell to the ground.

"M-M-My Lord, what do you mean?"

"You will be the county clerk."

"I will be the county clerk!"

Qian Gansan was still in a daze. Had his ancestral graves suddenly started emitting green smoke today?

"The appointment letter will be issued in as little as three to five days, or as short as half a month."

"I have always supported my subordinates' personal ideas. If you are not willing, I will find someone else."

"I am willing!"

Qian Gansan was about to kneel down before Song Xuan.

The transformation from clerk to official is practically equivalent to going from Qi Refining to Foundation Establishment; one is already in the preparatory stage for becoming an immortal, and is no longer a mortal.

The Song Dynasty had tens of thousands of officials, but not a single official would emerge in a year.

For Qian Gansan, what else could this be but a sudden ascension to heaven in broad daylight?
"Okay, keep this a secret for now. Go and hand over the relevant work to Zheng Wenhuan."

"Here."

After Qian Gansan walked out the door, he realized that he had been overwhelmed by joy.

If he himself is the registrar, then what is Zheng Wenhuan doing?

I haven't heard of him making any mistakes recently. What could he have done to displease the high-ranking official?
He'll have to find out indirectly later to avoid making a mistake.

As for the county constable, Song Xuan directly summoned Zhang the constable and assigned him the position.

The main reason was that he was extremely satisfied with Song Xuan's actions in the operation to wipe out Wuyou Cave, showing no fear of death.

Maintaining public order requires courage and decisiveness.

Song Xuan didn't want to fall behind and send people to their deaths.

When Zhang Dutou stepped out the door, his legs felt weak, and he leaned against the door frame for a while to catch his breath.

So he's become an official?

Not only the head constables and the head constables, but even the patrol inspector Zhang Chen were summoned by Song Xuan, and the three of them were asked to compete for the position of county magistrate of Xiangfu County.

The three of them were overjoyed.

As for the six branch heads, those who want to go to Xiangfu County to make their mark can apply for the position of registrar.

They could also recommend their subordinates to serve as clerks in the Six Offices.

In short, it's a rare opportunity to go from temporary to permanent.

When Qian Gansan came in again, he understood that Master Song was asking him if he wanted to recommend someone else.

Today, many people are coming and going from Master Song's office. Most of them have smiles on their faces and won't say anything when asked.

Everyone could only guess that the high-ranking official was going to give out reward money, but based on previous regulations, they could not reveal it at will.

When one person attains the Tao, the chicken and the dog ascend to heaven.

It can be said that there is only one vacancy in Kaifeng County, but it is enough to move many people around.

Not to mention that there are even more places available in the neighboring county.

Song Xuan had been busy for a long time with the promotion of his subordinates.

If things continue like this, I won't even need to become the Prefect of Kaifeng; I can get all the key positions in the two provinces to fall into my hands.

Even if Song Xiang were to be sidelined in the future, it would be easy to do so.

Regarding the future reforms of the Song Dynasty, Song Xuan needed more of his own people to be at the grassroots level.

After all, effective policy implementation still depends on the grassroots level working together effectively.

Song Xuan simply made a form and left it there.

The next day, Zhao Zhenxian saw the preliminary personnel transfer form.

He never expected such a big change in Kaifeng County.

Then there's Zhang Fangping. The two of them went to patrol the river yesterday, but I don't know what happened.

They only started asking questions after Song Xuan arrived.

Song Xuan further explained that when trouble broke out in Xiangfu County, the magistrate of Kaifeng County stepped forward, selflessly helping others and embodying the spirit of a loyal and upright official in the Song Dynasty.

A plan to send outstanding talents to neighboring counties.

They could understand what Song Xuan meant despite his strange and peculiar explanation.

"Will the First Madam fully agree to Twelfth Brother's arrangement for the transfer?"

Zhao Zhen expressed his doubts.

"I have to admire the Empress Dowager's rich experience in governing. She focuses on the big picture and lets go of the small details. As for the appointment of officials in the county government, she doesn't want to worry about that at all and leaves it all to me."

Song Xuan also sighed:
"Once the report is submitted, it will be reviewed and a template will be left in the Ministry of Personnel. Then the appointment letter should be issued."

"Focus on the big picture and let the small ones go?"

Zhao Zhen had never experienced this mindset before.

Because when he was able to observe politics in the past, he would look at everything in great detail.

When he took charge of government affairs in Kaifeng County, he looked at everything and cared about every single matter. How could he possibly let go of the minor details while focusing on the major ones?

He wants to do everything himself!

"Yes, otherwise it's very tiring."

Song Xuan looked at Zhao Zhen and said:
Do you know why Qin Shi Huang died suddenly?

“He was taking pills. Twelfth Brother said that pills are poisonous and that taking too many will hasten death.”

"very good."

Song Xuan was convinced that his anti-superstition education of his son was very successful:
"But that's only part of the reason."

"Fang Ping, you should know how many government affairs Qin Shi Huang handled every day, right?"

"Twelfth Brother, according to records, Qin Shi Huang had to process bamboo slips weighing almost two hundred catties every day."

"The daily work takes about ten hours, and even while patrolling various places, I will make time to handle government affairs."

Song Xuan nodded, then said to Zhao Zhen:
"Qin Shi Huang can be considered the most diligent emperor to date, while Qin Er Shi hardly does any work and only cares about enjoying himself."

"People need a certain amount of time to rest every day, but Qin Shi Huang had little rest time and a heavy workload, so his body had long been showing signs of overwork."

"For example, temporary hearing loss in one ear, auditory hallucinations, etc., may cause one to wake up at night and make it impossible to get proper rest."

"If this continues, let alone the poison in the elixir, even a normal doctor will be unable to save him."

"Even if Sixth Brother is diligent in his duties in the future, he must pay attention to the balance between work and rest. Otherwise, if he lives too short, he will not be able to accomplish any of his ambitions."

"Sixth Brother, better rest is for better work. Don't handle everything personally, big or small."

Song Xuan chuckled a few times:

“You’ve been working so hard lately, and I didn’t want to dampen your enthusiasm. Since you asked today, I’ll say a few more words.”

Zhao Zhen chuckled a few times.

He originally simply thought that if he could read more memorials to the emperor, he could make the country better.

It now appears that this is not the primary causal relationship.

"Work-life balance, Twelfth Brother, I'll remember that."

"Ah."

Song Xuan then asked them to participate as well, suggesting that they discuss who should take what position, their strengths and weaknesses, and their understanding and feelings about them.

Although the arrangement of officials within the county government did not require consultation with others, Zhao Zhen and his group were different.

While Song Xuan was visiting the Khitans, these people had to cooperate with him in carrying out various tasks.

After two days of discussion, Song Xuan finally submitted his memorial.

Out of trust, Liu E approved it without even looking at it carefully.

Such a minor official is not worth her time or effort.

After receiving the document, the Ministry of Personnel directly handed it over to Prime Minister Wang Zeng, who was concurrently serving as Minister of Personnel.

Wang Zeng knew that Tokyo City had been quite lively recently, and that neither of the two young Song-Song magistrates had made any counterattack.

It turns out it was all planned long ago.

This is going to be a major reshuffle, especially for Xiangfu County.

Wang Zeng couldn't understand why anyone would want to go to Xiangfu County when Kaifeng County offered such good benefits.

It took him a while to realize what was happening.

The allure of being an official is perhaps even more captivating than the pursuit of material wealth.

So many years of affluent life have almost made him forget that when he was poor, he vowed to pass the imperial examination and bring glory to his family.

The only exception was the position of county magistrate, which Wang had hesitated to accept once or twice. After all, Zhou Derong was a marquis of a hundred li, so he had to be cautious.

He looked at the information about Huazhou carefully and found that, apart from Baima County, this county was not a particularly prosperous or wealthy place. So he instructed the Ministry of Personnel to issue the appointment directly.

Just do it.

He wants to keep the copy for a while.

The once peaceful city of Tokyo has been turned into a scene of turmoil because of some people.

It seems someone is up to no good and wants to target Song Joong-ki and Song Hye-kyo, and thus target the Empress Dowager.

Wang Zeng strongly advocated that the Empress Dowager should return power to the Emperor in a timely manner.

Now that the emperor is becoming increasingly powerful, she still prevents him from contacting his ministers, isolating him from the outside world. Is this really an attitude of returning power to the emperor?
However, Song Joong-ki and Song Hye-kyo were at least people who actually got things done, and Wang Zeng wouldn't have done anything to implicate them.

"Tanfu, take a look at Song Xuan's memorial. The Empress Dowager has already approved it."

Lu Yijian took the memorial with a hint of doubt, and after reading it carefully, he found that it was entirely about the personnel arrangements of the two provinces in the capital.

"Such important official appointments in two major provinces were all manipulated by the top scholar Song?"

Lu Yijian was somewhat suspicious. The Empress Dowager had been too kind to him, so why hadn't she arranged for someone else, or asked him to change his mind?
"How can this be allowed!"

"Something happened in Xiangfu County, and the Empress Dowager asked Song Xuan to help. He did help, so are we to say that Song Xuan orchestrated it all?"

Wang Zeng began to plead for Song Xuan's innocence: "Tanfu is being far too harsh on him!"

(End of this chapter)