The train driver in the courtyard

Minsk is a new city with a century-old history.

The reason why it is called a new city is that the city was almost razed to the ground in that brutal war. It was rebuilt after the war and became an important industrial center.

It is also because of this that the new buildings in the city have a brand new fiery red color.

On the northwest side of Independence Square is the official building, in front of which there is a 7-meter-high statue of Lenin.

The statue exudes a solemn color under the sunlight.

"Isn't it just a statue? What's so good about it? You've been staring at it for half an hour." Andre looked at Li Aiguo sitting there motionless, lying on the comfortable sofa with a somewhat depressed look.

If he had known it would be so boring, he might as well have gone to a manor in the suburbs to invite the ladies to admire the golden pheasant.

"This is not just a statue, but..." Li Aiguo stopped talking halfway and felt there was no need to continue, so he smiled bitterly.

He turned sideways and looked at Andre: "Have you done what I asked you to do?"

Seeing that Li Aiguo was talking about serious matters, Andrei perked up and sat up straight: "I have donated a sum of money to the Minsk Computer Research and Development and Upgrade Special Design Bureau in the name of Andrei Trading Company. The other party kindly invited us to visit the design bureau."

"Prepare more gifts tomorrow."

"That's easy. Valeria has already prepared everything."

Valeria is the head of the Minsk branch of Andrei Trading Company. Li Aiguo met her yesterday. She is a good-looking woman in her thirties.

It is said that her husband is a senior leader in the Belarusian People's Commissariat for Foreign Affairs, who is able to go to the United Nations to vote.

Logically speaking, there can only be one department responsible for diplomacy within a family.

But the Russians were particularly cunning and stipulated that each union republic had the right to establish direct relations with foreign countries, sign agreements with them, and exchange diplomatic representatives.

At the same time, the Union Republic has the right to have its own republican military establishment.

All republics have People's Commissariats for Defence and Foreign Affairs.

The "benefit" of this provision is that it can give an advantage in pursuing foreign political policies and gain a few more votes when voting in the United Nations.

But the Russians would never have thought of this at this time.

It was precisely because they had institutions that should have belonged to independent families that the family members were able to easily obtain support from other families in the subsequent storm and quickly complete the separation.

These are all things for later.

The People's Commissariat for Foreign Affairs is an institution beyond its authority in Belarus. The fact that Andrei invited Valeria to be the person in charge shows that he is very capable.

With Valeria's help, the Minsk branch not only completed all procedures within three days, but also located on the west side of Independence Square.

To its south is the Minsk official building, and to its east is the Church of Saints Simon and Helen, also known as the "Red Church". This location can be described as a "feng shui treasure land".

"Patriotism, I don't quite understand." Andrei also took the opportunity to raise his own question: "I have investigated that computer research institute. The computers they developed are far inferior to the vacuum tube computers of the Moscow Academy of Computing Sciences. Why do you value it so much?"

This donation cost a total of 5,000 rubles. Andrei never thought that Li Aiguo was a generous person.

"Every inch has its own strengths and weaknesses." Li Aiguo had no intention of explaining. He left an ambiguous remark, put his hands behind his back, walked out of the office, and went under the sculpture.

Andre couldn't understand what Li Aiguo meant, nor did he understand what was worth admiring in a statue. He scratched his head.

At this time, the phone rang, and Andre picked up the phone: "It's the beautiful Yelena. I'm so sorry. I have a lot of work to do today. You may also know that our Andre Trading has opened a new branch in Minsk."

"What? Your brother is from the Minsk Defense Committee? And you want to introduce him to me?"

"Oh, beautiful Yelena, I sincerely invite you to visit the golden pheasant at the suburban villa. How about setting the time in the afternoon? I will send a car to pick you up personally."

After hanging up the phone, Andre pulled up his belt, took out a silver wine jug from his suitcase and put it in his arms.

The wine jug contains the Spirit Turtle Display Wine.

The sculpture in the square is only seven meters high, but standing at the foot of the sculpture, Li Aiguo felt like he was looking up at a towering tree.

The branches and leaves of this big tree may have withered now, but the seeds that flew away have already taken root and sprouted in the far east.

A small sapling is growing quietly, and perhaps it will soon grow into a new towering tree.

"If we want the tree to grow fast, we need to get some Jin Ke La."

“I don’t know if Wang Qingdian’s nitrogen fertilizer project has made any progress.”

Li Aiguo stood under the sculpture and muttered a few words in a low voice.

******
Professor Gilotti has been in a better mood recently, just a little bit.

When the institute was first being planned and established, the leaders above all promised to allocate funds directly from Moscow to support the institute's research work.

However, ever since the Computer Research and Development Upgrade Special Design Bureau designed the "Minsk-1", the funds have been delayed.

A while ago, Moscow made a bold move and transferred the jurisdiction of the institute to Minsk.

You know, Minsk itself is a poor place and needs financial support from Moscow.

Now that the institute has been transferred to Minsk, Minsk has stated that all research funding will be reduced by two-thirds and the salaries of scientific researchers will be cut by 50 percent.

There is nothing wrong with cutting salaries. Professor Gilotti declined invitations from several Western European research institutes, which shows that he does not value material benefits.

However, the already limited research funds have now been cut by more than half, and the remaining funds are not enough to complete the development of "Minsk 2".

What made him feel even more frustrated was that the researchers in the institute were preparing to leave Minsk because they had not received their salaries for several months.

Of course, Professor Gillotti cannot complain about those researchers, after all, they have a large family to support.

Not everyone can stay single for their entire life and devote their life to a cold computer.

"Maybe we should sell tea eggs." Just when Professor Gilotti was planning to take a group of researchers to set up a stall in Independence Square, the institute suddenly received a donation of 5,000 rubles.

This was the first donation the institute had received since its establishment. It amounted to 5,000 rubles, enough to pay the researchers half a month's salary.

Professor Gilotti was very confused about this donation because the donor was actually a company under the collective, Andre Trading.

Just hearing the name, you can tell that they are engaged in trade, which has nothing to do with their computer research.

"Fadeev, will there be any problem with this donation?" Professor Gilotti suffered a lot in recent years and became very cautious.

Fadeev was also confused, but he was a young man after all, so he was quite courageous. "Teacher, the donation went through the formal procedures. I have also inquired about it. Andrei Trading is quite famous in Moscow, and recently opened a branch on Independence Square."

"Well, the other side is quite powerful, but why are they giving us money?"

"Well." Fadeev scratched his head. "Teacher, let's not worry about it. Let's distribute the money first. When the Andrei Business people come tomorrow, we will understand."

Although Professor Gilotti felt that he could not understand the other party's intentions, it was a bit rash to divide the money.

But when I thought about the fact that those researchers were relying on this money to make a living, I decided not to worry about it anymore.

Anyway, the research institute is a mess. If the other party wants to plot something, they can only take away the two Minsk 1s.

The institute is currently in a semi-shutdown state due to lack of funds.

Early the next morning, Professor Gillotti and a group of researchers were waiting at the entrance of the institute.

Before I knew it, it was already half past eight in the morning.

There was a roar of an engine in the distance. Professor Gillotti tiptoed to look. After just one glance, his expression changed slightly.

The other party was not just a car, but a convoy.

The convoy consisted of three GAZ jeeps and two large trucks. Dozens of fully armed soldiers stood on the trucks. Judging from their uniforms, they should be the local Minsk National Defense Force.

Being able to get the National Defense Force to escort is not something that can be solved with money.

"It seems that Andre Trading is more powerful than expected." Professor Gillotti muttered softly and walked over with a smile on his face.

The convoy stopped and the first person to get off was Andre.

This guy changed into a medal uniform today and wore a pair of sunglasses on his nose. He looked as magical as can be.

After getting off the car, Andre did not start immediately. Instead, he waited for the soldiers to jump off the truck and line up in an orderly manner. Then he gathered his medal coat and walked slowly.

Every gesture and movement reveals the demeanor of a great man.

It’s not surprising that Andre was so excited.

You have to know that every time he worked with Li Aiguo, Li Aiguo always kept a low profile. Andre had long wanted to show his strength, but was repeatedly rejected by Li Aiguo.

This time, Li Aiguo took the initiative to propose a grand ceremony, so Andre naturally had to make every arrangement meticulously.

At this time, Li Aiguo also got off the GAZ jeep. Looking at the national defense soldiers, he couldn't help but give Andre a thumbs up in his heart.

This guy is indeed a capable person. With just one phone call, the Minsk Defense Department dispatched a squad.

But this kid was using up the spirit turtle to display the wine a little too quickly.

Sighing, Li Aiguo saw a tall middle-aged man walking towards him and realized that the other person should be Professor Gilotti.

"Hello, dear director." Li Aiguo walked over with a smile.

Professor Gilotti's attention was on the man with the medal and he didn't see Li Aiguo at all.

Now seeing an oriental young man coming up, the man with the medal, who was dressed like a white swan, actually stepped aside. He was shocked and realized that this was the real person.

Professor Gilotti quickly held Li Aiguo's hand tightly.

"Dear comrade, welcome to our institute."

"My name is Li Aiguo, you can just call me Comrade Aiguo." Li Aiguo's communication skills were beyond the reach of Professor Gillotti, and he soon started to chat enthusiastically with Professor Gillotti.

After the two chatted for a while, Li Aiguo said with a smile: "Director, I heard that your institute has just developed the Minsk 1. Can we take a look?"

"of course can."

The Minsk 1 computer was not practical and was just a semi-finished product in Moscow's eyes, so it was naturally not a secret.

Professor Gillotti brought Li Aiguo and his group to the laboratory. At this time, Fadeev was adjusting the computer. Seeing Li Aiguo coming in, he seemed a little surprised: "Eastern friend, why are you here?" "Mr. Professor, I learned about the difficulties of your institute from Fadeev, so I made a rash donation. I hope you don't mind."

"You are so kind, Comrade Patriot. I thank you on behalf of all the researchers in the institute."

Seeing that the two knew each other, Professor Gillotti asked a few questions and found out the whole story. The doubts in his heart disappeared instantly.

However, a new doubt arose in his mind.

"Comrade Patriot, you seem to place special importance on the Minsk computer we developed."

"Not only Minsk computers, but all computers." Li Aiguo said solemnly: "Computers will one day become an indispensable tool for life and production."

Hearing this, Professor Gilotti's eyes lit up.

"I didn't expect that you, at such a young age, would have such insights. In fact, I have noticed these things since the water flow simulation computer, but..."

Professor Gilotti sighed heavily as he thought of the situation at the institute.

"Professor, the institute's difficulties are only temporary. I believe Moscow will definitely take notice of the Minsk-1 computer."

“I hope there will be such a day.”

Professor Gilotti also knew that it was inappropriate to discuss these things in front of Li Aiguo, a stranger.

He took Li Aiguo to visit the Minsk 1 computer and explained the principles and structure of the computer in detail.

Li Aiguo was amazed when he heard this. The Minsk 1 computer only ran at a speed of 2500 times per second, far inferior to the vacuum tube computer.

However, because it uses machine coding, it can have a built-in library containing 100 programs and has automatic programming capabilities.

Although compared with later computers, its 4-square-meter footprint makes it look like a behemoth.

But you have to know that the vacuum tube computer of the Beijing Computer Research Institute occupies an area of ​​100 square meters.

"The Russians are really good at coming up with black technology."

“If possible.”

Li Aiguo had participated in the research of vacuum tube computers and his understanding of computers far exceeded that of ordinary people. His ideas on the development of computers instantly attracted Professor Gilotti.

"Computers are miniaturized and can be used for office work. Computers can communicate with each other, and humans can use computers to communicate with people thousands of miles away."

Professor Gilotti's eyes widened little by little, but soon the brilliance in his eyes disappeared. He sighed and said, "This is exactly my dream, but I will never see it in this lifetime."

Li Aiguo winked at Andre, and Andre, who had been in a "tourist" state, realized that he still had a role to play.

"Professor Gilotti, our Andre Trading Company is planning to develop its own computer, and we need talents like you. I wonder if you are interested in working for our company?"

When Professor Gilotti heard this, he immediately realized that this was the other party's real purpose.

His expression changed slightly, and he said hesitantly: "Dear Mr. Andre, computer research requires a lot of money."

Andre interrupted him: "Our Andre Trading Company is a multinational trading company with trading licenses in Eastern Europe, Eastern University, and Western Europe. In fact, our computer research institute is located in Eastern University. As long as you are willing to work there, you will get all the support you need."

"Todai. It is said that the computer development there is quite good. They have even designed the most advanced vacuum tube computer in the world."

Professor Gilotti pondered for a moment and smiled bitterly, "But I have no plans to go abroad. The difficulties our institute is currently facing are only temporary. I believe Moscow will definitely reconsider the Minsk series of computers."

Andre was rarely rejected, and he thought he had shown great sincerity, but the old man in front of him didn't give him any face.

Andre's face turned red immediately and his anger rose.

Li Aiguo stopped him: "Comrade Andre, since Professor Gilotti is unwilling, we can't force him to do it."

He looked at Professor Gilotti and said solemnly: "Professor, I invited you because you and I have the same dream. If you change your mind, you can contact me at any time."

As he spoke, Li Aiguo handed a business card to Professor Gillotti.

The short visit ended in an unpleasant atmosphere. Professor Gillotti watched the convoy disappear at the end of the road and then turned back to the institute.

Fadeev came over and whispered, "Teacher, since Andrei Trading has offered such favorable conditions, why don't we..."

Professor Gilotti waved his hand at him: "If Andrei Commerce set up the Computer Research Institute in Minsk, I might consider it, but at the University of the East, do you know what this means?"

How could Fadeev not understand?

Computer research these days is high-end technology, and every computer research institute has official support.

"Teacher, but we are not valued here."

Professor Gilotti sighed and said, "This is our home."

Fadeev touched the check in his pocket and wanted to say something else, but was stopped by Professor Gilotti.

"Don't persuade me anymore. The project funds haven't come in yet, so we still need to make preparations. You should take the researchers to sort out the drawings of the Minsk-2 again."

Before he could finish his words, the phone on the desk rang.

Professor Gilotti picked up the phone and his face suddenly changed.

"What?! You want to shut down the institute? You don't have the power to do that. I'm going to Moscow to sue you!"

The other party's attitude seemed very tough. After Professor Gillotti hung up the phone, he slumped in his chair.

Fadeev was also stunned by the news. How could that seemingly honest Oriental man be so vicious?
No, it's impossible. No matter how powerful he is, he cannot influence the Minsk officials.

But this incident happened to help Fadeev.

Fadeev asked in a low voice: "Teacher, what happened?"

"The Minsk Science and Technology Committee feels that our institute has not produced any results. The land of the institute has been allocated to the National Defense Forces to build a training base. They plan to close the institute in five days."

After Professor Gilotti finished speaking, he slammed the table and said, "I think they just don't want to bear the research funds of our institute, so they found this excuse."

"Teacher, what are you going to do?"

"Buy me a plane ticket right now. I'm going to Moscow!" Professor Gilotti stood up, his face livid, and said through gritted teeth, "I just can't believe it. Our institute has made so many achievements, but those people in Moscow can't see them?!"

"Yes!"

*****
In the evening, the setting sun shone on Minsk's Independence Square. Li Aiguo stood in front of the window and hung up the phone with an expressionless face.

"Professor Gilotti went to Moscow. Alas, the old professor is indeed a respectable man, but this is a war without smoke, and the result is either you die or I live."

As an agent, Li Aiguo adheres to a principle when performing his missions - any means can be used as long as the final victory can be achieved.

This principle cast a shadow of darkness over him.

but.

In order for more people to live in the sun, people like him are willing to live in darkness.

"My patriotic brother, I just can't understand, is this research institute so important? Is it worth making such a fuss?"

Andre came in with a cocktail in his hand and a woman in his arms.

Li Aiguo glanced at Yelena. Yelena met his gaze, threw him a coquettish look, and was about to move forward.

Andre grabbed the woman and said, "Be good, go to the manor and wait for me first."

"I like a scarf. It's from Italy."

"Buy, buy, buy. I will definitely bring some back for you when I go back."

"Then I'll wait for you to come back."

Yelena got what she wanted, and she winked at Li Aiguo again, then she shook her plump waist and turned to leave the office.

The housekeeper stepped aside and closed the office door.

Andre stared at Li Aiguo, as if trying to find an answer.

No wonder, in order to get the research institute this time, Andrei personally called his second uncle who was far away in Moscow, and even owed a favor to Yelena's brother.

The operation cost a total of 15,000 rubles.

He is a businessman and never does business at a loss.

"If you feel it's inappropriate, all expenses can be deducted from my share."

No matter how hot Andre's eyes were, Li Aiguo's expression remained unchanged, and there was no surprise in his tone.

The fifteen thousand rubles were like a piece of waste paper in his eyes.

Andrei stared at him for a long time and suddenly burst into laughter. He walked over, put his arm around Li Aiguo and patted his shoulder: "Brother Aiguo, we are brothers. Your business is my business. Since you plan to develop a computer, I will naturally help you. How about this, I will personally invest 50,000 rubles."

Although he didn't know why Li Aiguo was optimistic about computers, a thing that was not practical at all, he believed in Li Aiguo's vision.

Fifty thousand rubles is not a large amount, but it is not a small amount either.

If it fails, just consider it as building a relationship. If it succeeds, according to Li Aiguo's personality, he will definitely be given a share of the profits.

Li Aiguo did not reject Andre either.

The name of Andre Trading Company is also very useful in Dongda University.

The two looked at each other and burst into laughter.

All the calculations seemed to not exist at all, and everything was just the friendship between brothers.

Late at night, a passenger plane landed at Moscow Airport. Professor Gilotti got off the plane and looked into the distance.

Moscow was immersed in darkness at night.

(End of this chapter)