The Ming Dynasty: The opening scene features Zhu Di angrily accusing him of illegitimate succession.

Chapter 108 Li Jinglong: Do you know how much money you've made?

Wang Da, with a calm expression, nodded repeatedly upon hearing this and said gently, "What Attendant Hu said is absolutely right."

The questions on classical texts can be selected from the essentials of the Four Books and Five Classics, while the policy essays need to be relevant to current affairs and people's livelihoods. Scholar Lin is in charge of the capital region and has just purged the Green Gang. He is familiar with the hardships of the people and will surely be able to point out the key issues.

Tonight's small gathering to discuss matters is perfectly timed.

Upon hearing this, Lin Yue felt there was no reason to refuse.

"You two scholars are too kind."

The Zuixianlou restaurant on the banks of the Qinhuai River is usually quiet and undisturbed, and its light cuisine is perfect for casual conversation. Why don't we meet there tonight?

Hu Guang directly expressed his agreement, saying, "Zui Xian Lou is indeed secluded and close to the Imperial City and the office of the Supervisory Commissioner, which is just right for the occasion."

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Wang Da also smiled and agreed, "That's excellent. We'll all go our separate ways after the court session; there's no need for formalities."

The three continued talking, their steps unwavering, and walked together towards the Meridian Gate. Suddenly, they heard someone call out from behind, "Scholar Lin Boyan!"

The three turned around and saw a man walking quickly towards them. Although his clothes were slightly dusty, his back was straight and his face was resolute.

Lin Ding looked closely and realized that it was Tang Zong, who had just been released from prison.

He strode up to Lin Yue and bowed, saying, "Tang Zong greets Scholar Lin."

Hu Guang and Wang Da were both taken aback, but then recognized him. Tang Zong had been impeached and imprisoned for turning a blind eye to the devastating floods.

Seeing this, Lin Yue's heart stirred slightly, and he stepped forward to help him up, saying, "Lord Tang, there's no need for such formality."

Tang Zongzhi stood up, his eyes earnest: "Thank you, Scholar Lin, for recommending me despite past grievances. Now that I've been released from prison, I've heard that you've helped the people of the capital to rid the capital of evildoers. I truly admire you."

I am about to be ordered to go to Henan to deal with the disaster, so I have come to say goodbye today.

Lin Yue raised an eyebrow at him, then nodded and asked, "Brother Tang, your trip to provide disaster relief is a meritorious act. May I ask what important matter you wish to discuss with me?"

"To be honest," Tang Zong raised his head, his eyes burning, "when the Jiangnan region was flooded, the canals were silted up, the dikes collapsed, and refugees filled the roads and starving people littered the fields. It was you, Scholar, who was ordered to go and deal with the crisis."

Although I did not witness it myself at that time, I had long heard of the scholar's methods for controlling water.

Instead of adhering to the old practice of simply blocking waterways, he led the people to dredge the three rivers and five lakes, opened government granaries and soup kitchens, and provided food rations to displaced people according to their population. In just half a year, Jiangnan was restored to peace, and the people were able to return to their homes and resume farming and sericulture. Such pragmatic and people-oriented talent, and his ability to handle heavy tasks with ease, has long been admired by me!

He bowed slightly: "I am not very talented. I was ordered to go to Henan for disaster relief. I know that the disaster situation is complicated and I am afraid that there may be omissions. I am worried that the relief grain will not reach the poor. I am also worried that after the disaster, there will be the spread of epidemics and the displacement of people."

"Sir, given your proven track record in water management and resettling the people of Jiangnan, you must possess unique insights. I humbly request your guidance and wise strategies to save the people of Henan from their suffering!"

Upon hearing this, Lin Yue pondered for a moment, then chuckled and shook his head, speaking in a tone that was half-joking and half-serious.

"What brilliant strategies can be used for disaster relief? It's nothing more than killing more corrupt officials who line their own pockets and saving more displaced and impoverished people."

Upon hearing this, Tang Zong's eyes flashed with a sharp light, and he nodded heavily: "What the scholar says is absolutely right! The great way is simple, and I have been overthinking it."

"During this trip to Henan, I will certainly remember the lessons learned, severely punish corruption, and do my utmost to save the people!"

After saying this, he looked up at the sky and laughed heartily. He bowed to the three of them, then turned and strode away.

Upon seeing this, Wang Da couldn't help but stroke his beard and exclaim in admiration: "Scholar Lin is indeed a man of integrity and uprightness in the Ming Dynasty. Every word and deed he does is full of character, which has inspired Lord Tang to such an extent."

"Judging from Tang Zong's appearance, he has a clear and upright demeanor, and speaks earnestly. I believe he is an honest scholar. Entrusting the disaster situation in Henan to him will surely allow him to handle it properly."

Hu Guang echoed, "What Editor Wang said is correct."

Although Tang Zong had just been released from prison, he showed no sign of dejection; on the contrary, he possessed such a heart for saving the world, likely inspired by the scholar. With him going to Henan, the people might suffer less.

Lin Yue remained noncommittal, simply waving his hand and smiling, "You two are too kind."

It's getting late. We need to discuss the provincial examination questions in detail. Shall we go to Zuixianlou for a quick get-together, and talk over a meal?"

The three of them traveled together and soon arrived at Zuixianlou on the banks of the Qinhuai River.

As soon as Lin Yue stepped into the building, he saw Li Jinglong dressed in a brocade robe and jade belt, chatting and laughing with several beautiful maids. The table was full of delicacies and the aroma of wine filled the air.

Lin Yue thought to himself that his official salary was meager. Zhu Di said he had given him many rewards, but he didn't seem to care about giving him any real money or food. If he were to invite Hu and Wang to dinner today, he would probably have to empty his pockets. Now that he had met Li Jinglong, a big spender, he might as well take advantage of the opportunity.

He immediately stepped forward, cupped his hands in greeting to Li Jinglong, and said with a smile, "Duke Cao, it is truly an honor to meet you!"

"I am about to discuss the provincial examination questions with Hu Shidu and Wang Bianxiu. Would you mind having a meal with me?"

Upon seeing that it was Lin Yue, Li Jinglong quickly stood up to return the greeting, his face beaming with a smile: "Lord Lin, you are too kind. It is an honor to dine with you. If there is anything that would bother you, please come with me to a private room for a chat!"

Hu Guang and Wang Da were slightly surprised to see this, but they didn't ask any questions and followed them into the private room.

In the elegant room of Zuixianlou, with carved windows overlooking the water, beautiful maids quietly laid out tea and fruit, poured amber-colored rice wine, and bowed as they retreated behind the curtain to await their arrival.

The four people took their seats as host and guest, with Lin Yue, dressed in a brocade robe and jade belt, sitting at the head of the table.

Li Jinglong, despite his status as a Duke, sat in the secondary seat and, with a cupped hand, said with a smile, "Scholar Lin has just quelled the banditry in the capital region; his efforts are truly commendable!"

Hu Shidu and Wang Bianxiu are both literary giants; it is truly an honor for Jinglong that they can sit together and discuss matters today.

Hu Guang put down his teacup, his tone somewhat sarcastic: "Duke Cao is joking. Scholar Lin's swift and decisive crackdown on organized crime and his efforts to rid the people of harm are true achievements. I am merely following in his footsteps."

However, it is truly admirable that the Duke, as a model of nobility, shows such compassion for the people.

Hu Guang, who always wanted to improve himself, had no interest in Li Jinglong, who was a thorn in Zhu Di's side.

The position of Duke may seem prestigious and lofty, but in reality, it carries the threat of death from the start.

Wang Da, being of a tranquil and unassuming nature, nodded gently, showing no particular thoughts, and smiled, saying, "Today, I am fortunate to be with Duke Cao, Reader Hu, and..."

It is truly my honor to have Scholar Lin join me at Zuixianlou, where we can admire the lotus blossoms by the window and enjoy fine wine together.

"With so many matters to discuss in the imperial court, it's rare to find such a tranquil and leisurely scene. There's no need to always be bound by mundane affairs of state."

He raised his hand to pick up the wine cup, gently offering it to the guests, saying, "Gentlemen, you are all pillars of society. You are all busy with your duties. Today, let us put aside our worries about paperwork and just enjoy our wine and conversation."

"The matter of the provincial examination questions can be discussed later when we're more relaxed and in high spirits. Let's not let these mundane matters spoil our enjoyment of the moment."

Come, let me first offer you all a toast, wishing us all a wonderful time!

Lin Yue also smiled and echoed, "You two are too modest. Duke Cao is generous and hospitable. It is our honor to be able to trouble the Duke's mansion today."

After some polite greetings and a few drinks, the atmosphere gradually became more relaxed.

After several rounds of drinks, Li Jinglong's spirits rose, and he suddenly slapped his thigh and laughed, "Speaking of which, there's been an interesting incident recently that I'd like to share with you three gentlemen."

Have you all heard of the glass factory near the shipyard?

Seeing the three nod, he became even more smug: "I initially saw it as something new and invested some capital, but I never imagined that the stock price would soar to nearly three hundred taels per share, with a dividend of one-tenth or one-twelfth per share. It's truly a case of making a fortune!"

Before he could finish speaking, he turned to the servant beside him and ordered, "Go and fetch two shareholding deeds!"

The servant responded and left, returning shortly with two brocade boxes.

Li Jinglong took the gift and pushed it directly in front of Hu Guang and Wang Da, saying generously, "Hu Reader and Wang Editor, this is just a small token of my respect!"

Each person will receive one share of the glass factory shares; consider this Jinglong's gesture of treating you two gentlemen to a cup of tea!

Hu Guang's smile froze instantly, his expression turning cold.

Wang Da was over fifty years old and held a low position. He had long lost interest in climbing the official ladder and was most averse to the taint of money on his reputation.

Li Jinglong's words immediately enraged him; the usually mild-mannered man, who had been trying to keep the atmosphere calm, suddenly snapped.

He frowned and asked in a deep voice, "What does Duke Cao mean by this? Hu Shidu and I are court officials who were ordered to draft the provincial examination questions."

"Is the Duke perhaps trying to bribe us with a little money?"

The atmosphere in the private room froze instantly upon hearing this.

Li Jinglong's smile froze, and he turned to look at Lin Yue with a questioning expression.

Seeing this, Lin Yue quickly stood up to smooth things over, saying with a smile, "Editor Wang, please don't be anxious. Duke Cao certainly didn't mean it that way!"

He turned to look at Li Jinglong, giving him a meaningful look, and then explained to Hu Guang and Wang Da.

"My lords, you may not know this, but the Duke of Cao has always been generous and values ​​loyalty above all else."

He recently purchased a large number of shares in a glass factory and has indeed made a considerable profit. However, given Cao Guogong's status, how could he possibly care about such a small amount of shares?

However, the glass factory did indeed make a considerable profit. Sometimes, having too much money can be a burden for a noble and high-ranking person like Duke Cao.

Li Jinglong also came to his senses and echoed, "Yes, I have too many shares, and the share price has risen too fast. I don't know what to do, so I have to give them away to everyone I meet."

Hu Guang, a man of meticulous mind, showed a slight change in expression upon hearing this.

Because of his repeated defeats in the Jingnan Campaign and his defection in the face of danger, the Duke of Cao was favored by the Emperor and was already suspected. It is no wonder that he would be restless if he had too much wealth.

After a moment's thought, Hu Guang immediately suppressed his displeasure and looked at Li Jinglong with feigned curiosity, asking, "Oh? I wonder how much Duke Cao has actually earned this time, that he has such worries?"

Upon hearing this, Li Jinglong dared not answer easily, but instead turned to look at Lin Yue.

Lin Yue immediately began to boast loudly: "You two don't know this, but Duke Cao didn't just make a small profit, he made a huge profit."

He owns over a thousand shares of this glass factory, each worth nearly three hundred taels of silver. In total, he has earned almost a million taels of silver!

With such enormous wealth, how can you say Duke Cao isn't worried?

"A million taels?" Hu Guang and Wang Da were both shocked. They looked at each other, their eyes filled with disbelief.

Li Jinglong nodded repeatedly: "Exactly! Scholar Lin is absolutely right. I did make a fortune on this trip, which is why I lost my composure for a moment."

The atmosphere in the private room eased again, and the displeasure on Wang Da's face gradually disappeared.

Having been in officialdom for so many years, Wang Da immediately understood the situation: Cao Guogong Li Jinglong and Lin Yue must be connected.

Who would believe that a current duke had connections with the emperor's favorite minister and that this had nothing to do with the Yongle Emperor?

Seeing the shocked expressions on their faces, Lin Yue smiled, picked up his wine cup, took a sip, and slowly continued, "My lords, you might want to think about this carefully. The Duke of Cao has been a noble family for generations, with his mansions and lands spread throughout the north and south. His salary and rewards have never been lacking. What use is there for so much wealth piled up in the treasury?"

Li Jinglong continued, "What Scholar Lin said is true. I have received the Emperor's favor for generations and am a nobleman of the Ming Dynasty. I have no worries about food, clothing and daily necessities. It would be a waste to let all this money go to waste!"

After much thought, he decided to make some real contributions to the court and the people.

Originally, I intended to pay taxes to the imperial court and also donate some silver to repair the academy, but my Great Ming Dynasty has no provisions regarding shares...

The codified tax laws regarding stock dividends leave me with virtually no way to invest.

As soon as Li Jinglong finished speaking, Hu Guang was so shocked that he put down his wine cup, his brows furrowed, and his tone was full of disbelief: "Is this really true?"

"How could the imperial court have no written tax laws to govern the benefits of stock dividends and asset appreciation?"

Lin Yue also feigned surprise, then clapped his hands and said, "Since Duke Cao has such a heart to share the country's burdens, the court needs to broaden its sources of revenue and replenish its treasury."

Why not do this: several of us should jointly submit a memorial detailing the operation of the glass factory and earnestly request Your Majesty to order the Ministry of Revenue and the Ministry of Rites to jointly discuss and formulate tax regulations for share dividends and asset appreciation.

This would both win the hearts of the people and create a new source of revenue for the imperial court—wouldn't that be a win-win situation?

"What Lin, the Prefect, said is absolutely right!" Hu Guang immediately nodded in support, his tone earnest. "The affairs of the world are changing rapidly, and commerce and industry are becoming increasingly prosperous. The tax system of the imperial court should be reformed in an orderly manner to adapt to the times."

In the past, Emperor Taizu Gao established tax laws that were adapted to the times. Now, for emerging industries like glass factories, there are gaps in the tax system, which should be promptly filled in. This is a move that benefits the country and its people!

Upon hearing this, Li Jinglong beamed with joy: "Excellent! With two gentlemen leading the petition, I am relieved!"

As a nobleman of the Ming Dynasty, receiving the emperor's bounty, it is my duty to share the nation's burdens. Paying taxes diligently is simply my responsibility, and it is truly an honor to be able to contribute my meager share to the court!

After speaking, the group raised their glasses and drank together, making the atmosphere in the private room even more harmonious.

After several rounds of drinks, Wang Da put down his cup and asked, "The first section of the provincial examination consists of three questions on the Four Books, which is the established practice. I wonder what considerations the three gentlemen have regarding the direction of the questions?"

Upon hearing this, Li Jinglong immediately shut his mouth, knowing that the imperial examination was not something he could interfere with. Since it was not appropriate for Xun Gui to comment, he picked up the delicacies from his plate, drank his wine in silence, and pretended to be an observer.

Hu Guang did not speak rashly, but turned to look at Lin Yue. According to Zhu Di's decree, Lin Yue was the chief examiner.

Lin Yue put down his wine cup, pondered for a moment, and said loudly, "Since the Hongwu reign, the questions on the Four Books have been strictly based on Zhu Xi's 'Collected Annotations on the Four Books,' with no word or sentence allowed to deviate from it. I think this is too rigid."

He paused, his gaze sweeping over Hu Guang and Wang Da: "Just as Hu Shidu said, things in the world are changing rapidly. The provincial examination is for selecting talents for the country. If the examination questions stick to the old rules, how can we select people who are well-versed in current affairs and keep up with the times?"

In my opinion, we should broaden the scope of the questions. In addition to the "Collected Annotations on Chapters and Sentences", we can also select the essential meanings of the original texts of the "Four Books" and combine them with the principles of practical application to the world to set questions. This would not only test the scholars' foundation but also observe their vision and perspective.

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