industrial lord

Chapter 796: A Few Guidances

The conversation in the corner of the tavern continued, Pavel's gaze growing increasingly intense, the sparks of thought ignited in his young heart almost bursting forth.

However, a slightly hesitant sound of footsteps interrupted their discussion.

The two men looked up and saw the serious-looking, well-dressed official they had met briefly outside the market standing beside their table.

Delnets made up his mind to seek advice from the eloquent middle-aged man.

“Distinguished guests, please forgive my intrusion,” Delnets’ voice was much lower than it had been in the market. “I overheard your conversation just now.”

He introduced himself, then paused, seemingly choosing his words carefully. His gaze lingered on Thomas, and he said sincerely, "This gentleman's insightful remarks are truly enlightening."

"With all due respect, your insights into urban governance and economic development are profound and insightful, unlike anything I have ever heard in Budevis City."

"May I have the honor of asking your name, and could you please tell me more about our city?"

He adopted a humble attitude and spoke sincerely.

Thomas felt a slight stirring in his heart, but remained outwardly calm.

He gave a gentle and polite smile and said, "You're too kind. I'm just a newcomer who recently moved here and know very little about the local area. I was just chatting with a friend and joking around. Don't take it seriously."

He skillfully avoided the request to reveal his name and identity.

Pavel immediately understood and said in a slightly arrogant tone characteristic of young nobles, "I come from Boyheim and am just passing through. I will stay for two days and then leave."

He did not reveal his noble title, but his destination and demeanor already indicated that he was not a commoner.

A hint of disappointment flashed in Delnets' eyes, but more so, understanding.

He could tell that these two were no ordinary people, and they had their reasons for not revealing their identities.

However, he was not discouraged. On the contrary, he became even more convinced that the calm middle-aged man in front of him was no ordinary person.

With his years of experience running a slaughterhouse and his extensive knowledge of people, his composure and profound insights are something that ordinary business travelers or scholars cannot possess.

“Sir, you are too modest,” Delnets insisted. “Even in casual conversation, it is quite extraordinary to be able to express such insights about ‘differentiation,’ ‘industrial ecosystem,’ and ‘business environment.’”

"To be honest, sir, during my years working at the local city council, I have been deeply aware of the predicament of urban development, but I have no good solutions."

"The gentleman's words were like a beacon in the dark night."

"I wonder if you would have the time to formally ask me your questions?"

After he finished speaking, he felt a sweat break out on his back; it had been many years since he had spoken in such a refined and scholarly manner.

Thomas looked into the sincerity in the other person's eyes and began to think.

The official was troubled by the problems of urban development and keenly grasped the possible solutions implied in his words.

However, he was well aware that his position as an official of the Duchy of Weisen was sensitive, and as a newcomer, he should not get too involved in local affairs, especially not to give the impression of being bossy.

Thomas shook his head slightly, his smile still gentle, but his tone carried an undeniable refusal as he said, "You flatter me."

"My empty talk stems from my daily enjoyment of reading, especially miscellaneous books, rather than practical experience."

"I really dare not comment on the affairs of your esteemed region, lest I make a fool of myself."

He then changed the subject, seemingly casually, saying, "If you are truly interested in governance, I can recommend a few books."

"The 'How to Be a Good Mayor' series of books, which His Excellency the Grand Duke of Wessen personally wrote and promoted, is insightful and easy to understand, and incorporates real-life examples, which may offer some inspiration to His Excellency."

“In addition, ‘Introduction to Urban Planning’ and ‘Fundamentals of Public Administration’ are also good introductory readings.” Delnets was stunned.

Book?
He was usually busy with the slaughterhouse business and municipal affairs, and hadn't had a chance to sit down and read a book in a long time.

Moreover, what about the book written by the Grand Duke of Wessen?

He had vaguely heard that the Grand Duke of Wessen had published many books covering all aspects of life, but he had never thought of studying them.

When Thomas brought it up now, he felt on the one hand that it seemed like an excuse, but on the other hand, he vaguely felt that it might really be a path.

Thomas had a sudden thought and offered a more specific suggestion: "If you find it inconvenient to search for the book, I have a way."

"You may go to the post office in the city and ask the clerk to send a telegram, with the address 'Weisenberg City, Weisenberg Bookstore Main Store'."

"The content can be very simple: 'Seeking a list of introductory books on economics and urban governance, and paying for the inquiry and subsequent mail order through the post office, with refunds or additional payments as needed.'"

"Wesson Bookstore provides excellent service. After receiving your telegram, they will compile a suitable book list along with the prices and send it back to you via the postal system."

"At that time, you will be able to place your order directly at the post office with the book list, and the books will be sent to you by rail parcel."

"Although it will take some time, one can acquire the latest academic insights from the Duchy of Wesen without leaving home."

Delnets' eyes gradually lit up upon hearing these words.

Telegrams, post office payments, mail-order book lists... this process was quite novel to him.

When the telegraph office and post office were first built, he thought they were just for the convenience of merchants to communicate, but he never imagined they could also be used to shop from afar.

"That's a great method!" Delnets couldn't help but clap his hands, his serious expression replaced by a look of enlightened excitement. "Thank you for your guidance, sir!"

He expressed his heartfelt gratitude.

Although specific guidance wasn't immediately available, this path to acquiring knowledge pointed to a broader world.

He seemed to see a new door slowly opening before him.

Just then, a young man in a city hall uniform hurried into the tavern, looked around, saw Delnets, and immediately ran over and whispered a few words in his ear.

Delnets's expression instantly turned serious. He turned to Thomas and Pavel and said apologetically, "Gentlemen, I'm so sorry, but there's an urgent matter at the city hall that I need to deal with immediately."

"I have benefited greatly from your teachings today. Thank you again for your guidance!"

He bowed respectfully, then hurriedly left the tavern with the messenger.

Thomas watched Delnets' departing figure, lost in thought.

Pavel took a sip of beer and chuckled softly, “Did you hear what that guy said to him just now? I think I heard words like ‘representative’ and ‘two days later’.”

Thomas nodded; he had naturally caught that information as well.

"It seems this official has a lot to do to prepare for the arrival of the Weisen delegation."

A strong interest flashed in Pavel's eyes. He had originally just been passing through and planned to stay for a day or two until his motorcycle arrived before leaving.

But after encountering Thomas one after another, hearing his profound remarks, witnessing firsthand how local officials were moved by them, and with the addition of the mysterious Wesson delegation, he suddenly found the city of Budvis to be more interesting than ever before.

“Mr. Thomas,” Pavel’s expression suddenly turned serious, “it seems I need to change my plans. I’d like to stay here a few more days to see if this Mr. Delnets will actually go to the post office to send a telegram, and also to see what the delegation that arrives in two days will bring to this city that’s busy washing its face.”

His smile was full of the curiosity and anticipation of a young adventurer.

(End of this chapter)