From street tabloids to the first newspaper of the Republic of China

September arrived in the blink of an eye, it was morning.

The wind carried the dampness of the Huangpu River and the fragrance of plane tree leaves.

As soon as the coffee shop on the street opened, a fashionable woman in a dress and heavy makeup swayed her hips as she walked in.

"Slurp—"

Shen Zishi wandered around the International Settlement, smoking a briar pipe, his mouth never dry.

It wasn't a waste of time to get up so early...

Lin Wangzheng, you'd better hurry up and finish writing, or your uncle will give you an aunt...

Shen Zishi's mind was filled with thoughts, and before he knew it, he had arrived at Huafuli.

Today he came to see Manager Zhou to discuss increasing print runs and changing the layout. The *Strange News* newspaper was now quite famous in the concession, and they couldn't afford to have its supply cut off.

As he passed by the entrance of the Yadong Library, he remembered the free hand-cranked printing press and decided to go in and say hello.

The doors to the business premises are always open; you can just walk right in.

A table was set up in the courtyard, where Wang Mengzou and his men were sitting in a circle eating breakfast.

"Boss Wang, you've got a good appetite!"

Shen Zishi stepped forward, took off his pipe, and bowed.

Upon seeing Shen Zishi arrive, Wang Mengzou immediately dropped his chopsticks and stepped forward to shake hands.

"Rare guest, have you eaten yet?"

"You've eaten, I'm just passing by and thought I'd pop in to say hello, now I'm leaving!"

"Don't worry, I need to talk to you!"

"What?"

Shen Zishi looked completely bewildered.

Before he could catch his breath, Wang Mengzou pulled him inside, past rows of bookshelves, into a reception room.

The reception room wasn't large, but it was thoughtfully decorated. A red square table was placed in the center, surrounded by several chairs. On the wall hung a painting by Chen Jiru, a Ming Dynasty scholar, from his "Xiaochuang Youji: Jiling Pian" (Notes from a Small Window), which reads, "Reading is a pure land wherever you are, and closing the door is like being in a deep mountain." In the corner, there were also several pots of orchids, their leaves lush and green, their flowers in full bloom.

Wang Mengzou made Shen Zishi a cup of tea and invited him to sit down:

"Mr. Shen, I was just thinking of coming to find you, but I was worried about not being able to find your address. I didn't expect you to find me first."

"Looking for me?"

Shen Zishi picked up his teacup, blew on the foam, and said with some doubt, "Just tell me what's wrong, and I'll take care of it if I can."

Seeing this attitude, Wang Mengzou felt that his previous gift had not been given in vain, so he nodded with relief, placed his arms on the table, leaned forward slightly, and slowly explained:

"Well, I have a very close friend named Chen Qingtong. I don't know if you've heard of him?"

"Chen Qingtong? The one who ran the *National Daily* with Zhang Xingyan?"

"That's right! It's him. This happened a long time ago... He's been wandering around for years because of the revolution. He finally settled down and wanted to start a 'Youth Magazine,' which is scheduled to launch on the 15th of this month. There will be a celebration party then. Do you think you could bring Brother Lin along? The more the merrier! He really wants to get to know you two, but he's repeatedly asked me to invite you."

"Youth Magazine..."

Upon hearing this request, Shen Zishi immediately understood what Wang Mengzou wanted to express.

Forget about the crowds and the celebration; it's just that Tu Lin Wangzheng is no different from Shi Guisun!

He didn't rush to agree, after all, this matter required Lin Wangzheng's approval. He smiled, pointed at Wang Mengzou, and said:

"Boss Wang, Boss Wang, I think you're all after my nephew."

"I won't hide it anymore, it's really true... Brother Lin's article is truly remarkable, I admire him greatly. It's just a pity that such a young man cannot show his real name, which is probably the greatest loss to the youth."

Wang Mengzou handed Shen Zishi a cigarette and lit it himself: "My friend's 'Youth Magazine' aims to 'reform the thinking of young people and guide their self-cultivation.' If Brother Lin could spare a couple of articles, it would surely help many confused young people clarify many issues!"

Shen Zishi wasn't worried about that, and hesitated before saying:

"You know, our newspapers are already skirting the line pretty much, we're always on edge... I've never met this Mr. Chen you mentioned, but given his past experiences, I'm afraid..."

He deliberately left his words unfinished.

But everyone understood the meaning: Chen Qingtong participated in the Xinhai Revolution and went into exile because of his anti-Yuan movement, so his relationship with the revolutionaries was always unclear.

The Strange Newspaper may be radical, but its bottom line for self-preservation is that it must never get involved with the revolutionaries. We can oppose Yuan Shikai and advocate for change, but we must never act as the mouthpiece of any organization, otherwise the nature of the newspaper will change.

Wang Mengzou noticed Shen Zishi's worry and smiled:

"Boss Shen, you don't need to overthink it. Qing Tong has changed his approach and has even told me that he won't talk about politics for twenty years. He's focused on reforming the thinking of young people. He has big ambitions, but he's definitely not going to start a revolution."

Shen Zishi was relieved, took a few more sips of tea, and nodded:

"Okay, but I can't make that decision myself. I have to go back and ask my nephew. If he's not willing, then I'm afraid there's nothing I can do. Please forgive me."

"Of course, of course! If Brother Lin isn't willing, I reckon my friend will have to visit him three times!"

"Haha! It won't come to that. Let's go!"

"Let me see you off."

Both of them stood up, shook hands, and turned to walk outside.

As they reached the door, Wang Mengzou suddenly called out to Shen Zishi:

"Boss Shen!"

Shen Zishi turned around.

Wang Mengzou said with a smile:

"Your nephew is really promising; you should nurture him well."

Shen Zishi paused for a moment, then laughed, a rather smug laugh:

"Of course!"

......

We exited the Yadong Library.

Shen Zishi hadn't walked far when he arrived at his usual "Hualiang Printing House," where the machines were humming loudly.

As I strode inside, a strong smell of ink hit me.

Even someone who had spent half his life dealing with newspapers couldn't stand the smell for a moment.

But those printing workers seemed to be outside, completely oblivious to everything; their sense of smell had probably failed them.

Living in this kind of production environment for too long is a matter of taking it one year at a time.

Manager Zhou was standing at the top of the stairs, talking to a young man in his thirties.

The young man was dressed like a scholar, wearing a blue long gown, a round hat, and carrying a briefcase.

But something just doesn't feel right... how should I put it...

This young man was incredibly tall and muscular; he stood there like a doorway. His long robe stretched taut over his shoulders, as if it might burst at any moment. He didn't look like a scholar at all...

What's even more incongruous is that dark face, which, combined with that outfit, makes it look like Lu Bu riding a dog.

When Steward Zhou saw Shen Zishi enter, his eyes lit up:

"Boss Shen, you've come at the perfect time!"

Before Shen Zishi could answer, he pulled the young man forward and introduced him:

"This is Cheng, a field agent from Zhonghua Book Company. He wants to discuss investing in the *Strange News* newspaper with you!"

Shen Zishi sized up the two of them, muttering to himself, and inexplicably felt a strong urge to run away.

Despite the pleasant experience Wang Mengzou had previously had, he still couldn't bring himself to take the plunge, secretly plotting his next move.

As a veteran journalist, he naturally knew about Zhonghua Book Company, a publishing institution established around the time Yuan Shikai became president. In recent years, its business had expanded rapidly, showing signs of directly challenging the Commercial Press. Especially recently, he'd heard it was undergoing shareholding reforms to further expand its reach.

So it's not surprising to invest in or acquire newspapers and magazines, but what's the point of investing in a tabloid that could collapse at any time?

Before he could even take a step, the young man warmly shook his hand:

"Mr. Shen, it's an honor to meet you! My name is Cheng Qing, an office worker at Zhonghua Book Company. I apologize for disturbing you."

Shen Zishi winced in pain as the hand was pinched.

"You're too kind, Officer Cheng."

Cheng Ziqing released his hand, beaming, and said earnestly:

"Mr. Shen, I know you're very busy, but could I spare a little of your time? I'd like to find a place to discuss investment matters with you in detail. Zhonghua Book Company is very interested in the 'Strange Newspaper,' and the terms are negotiable."

Of course, what I was thinking was: Damn it, I finally caught you, you bastard!

Since taking on the job of publishing the "Strange News," I've been wandering around the concession for the past few days, but I can't find a newspaper called "Strange News" anywhere. I've even started to doubt whether the newspaper is even in the French Concession. I was really desperate, so on a whim, I bribed the newspaper vendor who sells "Strange News" and finally found out the printing address.

My original plan was to wait a few days; if I could catch the person, all would be well. If not, I would go back and report truthfully, and give my own judgment.

Well, I didn't expect to run into them so soon after arriving. Now that we've met, there's no escaping right under our noses. If words don't work, we'll have to resort to force!

Shen Zishi was unaware that something was amiss, and he was also secretly plotting something.

If a deal with such a large company can be reached, the benefits will undoubtedly be substantial...

What if they give something away for free again this time...?

With this investment, we won't have to put up with that bastard Shi Jiaxiu's attitude anymore. We can just stand up straight, slam our fists on the table, and say, "Lin Wangzheng and his wife are not lending out their services." How awesome would that be?

As a businessman, profit ultimately trumped reason. Shen Zishi decided to test Cheng Ziqing's attitude, deliberately saying:

"I have some things to discuss with Manager Zhou right now, could you wait a moment?"

Cheng Ziqing chuckled inwardly, but nodded repeatedly on the surface:

"No problem, no problem, I'll wait here, you go about your business."

Shen Zishi turned to look at Steward Zhou and lowered his voice:

"Manager Zhou, let's go inside and talk."

.......

An hour later, on Dongxinqiao Street.

Shen Zishi and Cheng Ziqing walked arm in arm, chatting as they went, feeling dizzy from being so full of flatbread.

"Zhonghua Book Company is currently undergoing shareholding reform and has ample funds. Investing in 'Strange News' is the decision of the company's senior management, not a decision I made on a whim. You can rest assured about the terms. Whether it's an acquisition or an investment, your management position will be retained, and if the company grows, you can also be given a portion of the shares."

Is this really true?

"It's absolutely true, I'm not one to lie."

"My newspaper may be small, but it has great potential! Our circulation has increased more than tenfold recently, and the momentum is excellent. If you want to invest, you'll have to offer a good price, otherwise I'll look for someone else. Several companies have come to talk to me about this recently."

"Definitely, definitely..."

The two turned into the alley and headed towards the newspaper office, staff dormitory, and distribution center of the "Strange News".

Cheng Ziqing was overjoyed!

After searching for so many days, it turns out that this bastard was hiding on Dongxinqiao Street, so close to the Central Police Station!

He circled around the area several times but couldn't find the place. If Shen Zishi hadn't stumbled upon it, who knows how long it would have taken to find it.

What made him even happier was that Shen Zishi brought him to the newspaper office, so now he could take them all down!

The two went upstairs one after the other.

Shen Zishi said at the door, "Mr. Cheng, my place is shabby, please don't mind."

Cheng Ziqing waved his hand dismissively and said, "How could that be! I understand your newspaper's difficulties; otherwise, we wouldn't have come all this way to invest!"

Shen Zishi laughed as he pushed open the door and called out, "Wang Zheng, look who I brought back!"

Lin Wangzheng had just woken up and was eating the scallion noodles the widowed landlady had brought him when he was startled by the shout. With noodles still in his mouth, he turned to look at the door and mumbled, "Uncle, is this your friend?"

Just as Shen Zishi was about to introduce them, Cheng Ziqing behind him had already moved.

Two beds meant only two people, and now that everyone's here, that's perfect!

He blocked the doorway, pulled an ID card from his pocket, and flashed it in front of the two men:

"Police station, don't move!"

That was a standard identification card from the French Concession police station, with a dark blue cover and both French and Chinese characters printed on it. Inside the card was Cheng Ziqing's photograph, identification number, and rank.

Lin Wangzheng stared in disbelief, the noodles in his mouth falling out of his mouth. He looked at Cheng Ziqing, then at Shen Zishi, his expression shifting from bewilderment to helplessness.

A ghost has entered our house, brought by one of our own family members!

Then, he obediently put his hands behind his head and squatted down, his movements incredibly practiced.

What an unexpected disaster! Damn it...

Behind the door, Shen Zishi was still in a daze.

Cheng Ziqing had been suffering these past few days and was seething with anger. Now that he had finally caught the man, how could he possibly let him go?

Just as Shen Zishi was about to speak, Cheng Ziqing darted forward, grabbed his shoulder with one hand and covered his mouth with the other, using a "Jiamusi crutch" to throw him to the ground, his hands twisted behind his back.

"Click—"

A pair of handcuffs, still warm from his body, snapped onto Shen Zishi's wrists.

Shen Zishi lay on the ground, his face flushed red:

"We're not revolutionaries, why are you arresting us?"

Cheng Ziqing did not answer, but turned to look at Lin Wangzheng.

Lin Wangzheng was still squatting in the corner, his hands covering his head, his eyes clear and foolish, looking like an innocent young man who knew nothing.

Cheng Ziqing pointed at him: "Stand up."

Lin Wangzheng obediently stood up, still holding his head in his hands.

"Put your hands down."

Lin Wangzheng lowered his hand, bowed his head, and looked honest and simple.

Cheng Ziqing looked him up and down. The young man was quite handsome and would be as tall as her in a few years. He didn't seem like a dangerous person, so she gave up the idea of ​​handcuffing him.

But this old man, he doesn't look like a good person at all!

"Walk!"

Cheng Ziqing grabbed Shen Zishi and pulled him up.

Lin Wangzheng lowered his head, passed by Shen Zishi, and glanced at him.

Shen Zishi understood his gaze; it simply meant:

"Why the hell did you bring this thing back?!"

I'm so frustrated I could cry!

......

Half an hour later, at the Central Police Station, three streets away.

Cheng Ziqing led the two through the back door, down a long corridor, to the registration office on the first floor.

The room was small and simply furnished—a long desk, a few chairs, and a filing cabinet.

The French coat of arms and several legal articles hang on the wall. The windows are high, and sunlight streams in, casting bright patches of light on the floor.

When the Frenchman, who was in his forties, saw Cheng Ziqing come in, he asked a few questions in broken Chinese. Cheng Ziqing gave a brief explanation, and then he went out to give the space to the three of them.

"Sit there and wait," Cheng Ziqing said, pointing to the stool.

Shen Zishi's handcuffs had been removed, and he and Lin Wangzheng sat down obediently.

honest......

However, it doesn't seem like a big deal, so there's no need to rush...

Cheng Ziqing glanced at the two of them, turned around and left, closing the door behind her.

The two didn't exchange a word, waiting for an unknown amount of time until the sun outside the window dimmed and footsteps echoed in the corridor. Cheng Ziqing was with a young man carrying a large-format camera that looked quite bulky.

He sat down at the long table, and the young man began assembling the camera.

"Alright, it's nothing serious. I have a few questions for you, please answer truthfully."

Cheng Ziqing opened the folder, picked up a pen, and looked at Shen Zishi.

"Name."

"Shen Zishi".

"age."

"Forty-three."

"Profession."

"Editor-in-Chief of the Strange News Report"

"Newspaper office address."

No. 43 Dongxinqiao Street.

"Who wrote those articles in the newspaper?"

"......I."

Cheng Ziqing did not suspect anything, because Lin Wangzheng was too young and did not seem to have that kind of experience. After writing down the answer, she looked at Lin Wangzheng again.

"Name."

"Lin Wangzheng".

"age."

"eighteen."

"Profession."

"Someone who does odd jobs and runs errands."

"I'm asking you what exactly you're going to do!"

"I do everything: sweeping, pouring water, running errands, buying cigarettes—I do all the odd jobs."

Lin Wangzheng spoke softly, his head bowed, feigning pitifulness, giving off an impression of "I don't understand anything."

Cheng Ziqing glanced at him again, then turned to look at Shen Zishi:

"Who is he to you?"

Shen Zishi quickly said:

"My cousin, he's just a handyman, he doesn't know anything."

Cheng Ziqing paused, raised his head, and looked at Shen Zishi with eyes as sharp as a hawk's.

Shen Zishi's heart skipped a beat, but he forced a calm expression on his face.

Cheng Ziqing didn't ask any further questions and lowered her head to continue taking notes.

After finishing writing, he closed the folder, leaned back in his chair, and looked at the two people:

"I'm sure you two can guess why you've been invited here. The reason I've called you here today is to file a report as instructed from above, and also to give you a few words of warning."

Shen Zishi nodded quickly:

"Please speak, please speak."

Cheng Ziqing held up one finger:

"First, since you're operating in the French Concession, you know perfectly well what you can and cannot do. We don't care about anything else, but you absolutely must not associate with the revolutionaries. Remember that, absolutely not, otherwise no one can protect you."

Shen Zishi nodded repeatedly.

Cheng Ziqing extended his second finger:

"Secondly, do not infringe upon the interests of the French. The French Concession is French territory. If you are running a newspaper here, you must abide by the rules here. Do not publish articles that criticize them or damage their image, otherwise we will not be so polite."

Shen Zishi nodded vigorously.

Cheng Ziqing extended his third finger:

"Third, your recent content has gone a bit too far. Yuan Xiangcheng has already started to put pressure on you. Be careful with your words and think about the consequences before you write anything."

Shen Zishi wiped the sweat from his forehead:

"Yes, yes, I will definitely pay attention."

Cheng Ziqing nodded, reopened the folder, pulled out a few sheets of paper, and pushed them in front of Shen Zishi.

"Fill these out."

Shen Zishi picked it up and looked at it; it was a registration form. It required filling in basic information such as name, age, place of origin, address, occupation, and newspaper name. Below the form was a line of smaller print that essentially said: "I promise to abide by the laws and regulations of the French Concession and not to engage in activities that endanger public order."

Shen Zishi picked up the pen and filled it in stroke by stroke.

He had registered years ago, but the information had changed long ago...

Cheng Ziqing glanced at it, nodded in satisfaction, put the form into a folder, took out a box of inkpads, and pushed it in front of Shen Zishi.

"Sign, then put your fingerprint on."

Shen Zishi signed his name at the signature section, extended his right index finger, pressed it on the inkpad, and then pressed a red handprint at the signature section of the form.

Cheng Ziqing put the form away, then looked at Lin Wangzheng and nodded:

"You come too."

Lin Wangzheng obediently walked over and repeated Shen Zishi's process. But he deliberately wrote the characters crookedly, and simply omitted some characters, making him look like he hadn't read many books.

Cheng Ziqing glanced at it, said nothing, put the form away, and turned to the waiting young man:

"Xiao Zhang, take a picture of them."

The young man nodded, adjusted the camera angle, covered it with a black cloth, and focused. He then had the two men walk to the wall and take a headshot of each of them.

After taking the photos, Cheng Ziqing closed the folder and looked at the two of them:

"Okay, the last item is to pay a deposit."

Shen Zishi was stunned for a moment:

"Deposit? How much?"

Cheng Ziqing thought for a moment. After working so hard for so long, he had to earn something, so he shamelessly said:

"You name a number."

They seemed polite, but it was as if they were saying, "If you don't ask for enough, you won't be able to leave today."

Shen Zishi chuckled awkwardly:

"Fifty?"

Cheng Ziqing remained silent.

"eighty?"

Cheng Ziqing remained silent.

"ninety?"

"..."

Cheng Ziqing shook his head and crossed his arms: "It costs more money."

Shen Zishi frowned, mentally slapping himself repeatedly.

"Then you can name a price?"

"What they mean is that you need to be taught a lesson, at least two hundred."

"Taking away the young master!?"

Upon hearing this number, Shen Zishi's face turned pale: "I... this is a tabloid... I don't have that much money on hand..."

Cheng Ziqing leaned back in his chair and smiled gently.

"It's alright, I'll accompany you two on another trip. We'll take whatever we can get, and you can write an IOU for the rest."