After hearing Cao Zhang's words, Xun Yu fell into deep thought.
He knew very well that Cao Zhang was giving himself a great favor, so that he could gain the respect and love of scholars all over the world and the admiration of thousands of people.
Although Xun Yu regarded himself as noble, such an opportunity to leave a name for eternity was indeed a great temptation for him.
But there is no reward for no merit, so how could Cao Zhang treat himself so well? It is obvious that he must have a purpose.
Xun Yu was so smart that he immediately realized that his position among the Han Dynasty courtiers and his relationship with Cao Cao were what Cao Zhang valued most. If he was willing to speak for Cao Zhang, he would be able to win the title of heir apparent. It becomes much easier.
Xun Yu knew very well that Cao Zhang was superior to Cao Pi in terms of talent, martial arts, strategy, and even the way he treated people. However, if he chose to support Cao Zhang, he would be destined to violate etiquette and even cause civil strife in the Cao family. Stable government is extremely detrimental.
Out of such considerations, he chose to refuse again: "I accept the young master's kindness. It's just..."
Cao Zhang had already guessed what he was going to say, so he interrupted him directly: "Your Majesty, you are a sensible person. To revitalize the Han Dynasty, we need people with virtue and talent. Let everyone in the world who is interested in studying learn. When it comes to "The Thousand Character Essay", you know very well how great this merit is."
"The more scholars, the more people who serve the court and work in politics, the more people can stabilize the situation more quickly. Does the current Han Dynasty need a minister who follows etiquette and law, or do they need thousands of talented students? Your Majesty, it should be I can tell the difference.”
"What's more, how will my father choose? How can you alone control it? If you miss the opportunity to benefit thousands of students because of your rigidity in etiquette, you will be the sinner of the Han Dynasty and the sinner of the world!"
"If you are brave enough, please make me agree for the sake of the world's scholars and the future of the Han Dynasty!"
Cao Zhang knew very well what Xun Yu cared about most, so he directly raised the issue to a higher level and put a big hat on Xun Yu.
Cao Zhang's words left Xun Yu completely speechless.
He had to admit that Cao Zhang's words made sense, and his own ideas were too rigid in details. Compared to the future of the world's students, who is Cao Cao's heir apparent, what does it matter?
Cao Cao is suspicious and fickle by nature. Whether or not he supports Cao Zhang will not directly affect Cao Cao's decision.
What's more, Cao Zhang is indeed far superior to Cao Pi in all aspects, so choosing him as the heir apparent is not the worst outcome!
Thinking of this, Xun Yu finally stopped hesitating and returned the courtesy to Cao Pi respectfully: "Young Master has said that it is difficult for me to refuse. I can only say it first. I agree to Young Master's invitation today just for the sake of the world's students. I hope that Young Master will not treat you like this in the future." It’s the threat!”
Cao Zhang knew that Xun Yu was a tough guy. Historically, he could argue with Cao Cao, who he had worked with for more than 20 years, and did not want him to be disrespectful to the Han Dynasty.
If I insist on forcing him, it will only be counterproductive. I gave him the "Thousand Character Essay" for the purpose of attacking his heart. How can I force him to agree to help me in the future if I want to get closer to him?
Cao Zhang responded with a serious face: "Your Majesty, you are overly worried. I am only doing this for the sake of the common people. I will let you decide in your heart what you will decide in the future. I have no objection. If you violate this statement, heaven and man will suffer the consequences." punish!"
After hearing Cao Zhang's solemn oath, Xun Yu understood his sincerity and no longer hesitated. He said respectfully: "Young Master is so righteous and has brought great benefits to the students all over the world. This has enabled the Xun family to leave a name in history! This kindness, Xun Yu is extremely grateful, the young master has entrusted me with your request, and I would like to accept it!"
After Xun Yu finished speaking, he bowed and saluted Cao Zhang.
When Cao Zhang heard Xun Yu promised him, he knew that he was a gentleman who truly cared about the people, and he had infinite respect from the bottom of his heart.
Cao Zhang bowed and returned the courtesy to Xun Yu. The two stood facing each other. At this time, they only had mutual respect in their hearts without any distracting thoughts.
The two of them stood up after saluting.
Cao Zhang said to Xun Yu: "Your Majesty, in addition to asking you to publish the "Thousand-Character Essay" on your behalf today, I have one more thing to trouble you with. But please rest assured, this matter will never embarrass your Majesty again. Instead, it will bring trouble to your Majesty." This is a good thing for you and the entire Xun family."
Xun Yu was so smart that he immediately guessed Cao Zhang's intention and said calmly: "Young master hopes that Xun will join in the printing promotion of new paper and "Thousand Character Classic", right?"
"Your Majesty is only half right. In addition to the Xun family, I have actually contacted Taichang Yang Biao, General Master Kong Rong, and Guo Zhang Fu Wan. I believe they should arrive soon.
The Yang family of Hongnong was a famous family in the Han Dynasty, and Yang Biao was the father of Yang Xiu, a hero who protected Emperor Xian when he returned eastward.
Kong Rong is a descendant of Confucius and a famous official all over the world. After being defeated by Yuan Tan, the son of Yuan Shao, he came to Xudu and was appointed to an official position.
Fu Wanze was the father of Fu Shou, the queen of the current Emperor Xian of the Han Dynasty. He was the head of the dynasty and an important minister of the Han Dynasty.
These three people were selected by Cao Zhang after repeated consideration. They are all people with reputation, status and voice.
When Xun Yu heard the candidate mentioned by Cao Zhang, he was slightly startled, and then he understood what he meant, and his admiration for Cao Zhang in his heart increased.
At this moment, a servant reported that Yang Biao and three others had arrived.
Xun Yu was extremely impressed by Cao Zhang's efficiency and immediately ordered his servants to invite the three people in.
After several people bowed to each other, the host and guest took their seats.
"I don't know what's going on when you invite us to the Chancellor's desk?" Yang Biao asked straight to the point after sitting down.
Cao Zhang took out Cao Gongzhi and "The Thousand-Character Classic" and asked the three people to watch them one by one. Then he told them about Cao Cao's preparations to sell Cao Gongzhi and Xun Yu's plan to publish "The Thousand-Character Classic" as an enlightenment book. .
The three people looked at Cao's official paper and the well-printed and bound "Thousand-Character Classic" in admiration, but they still didn't understand Cao Zhang's purpose of gathering them deliberately.
Cao Zhang faced the three of them and said with a smile: "The three of you are important officials of the imperial court. Naturally, you know how profitable it is to sell Cao Gongzhi and the "Thousand-Character Classic". I invite you here because I want you to join your order." This business.”
"I can give you 20% of the net profit and divide it equally between the four of you!"
"The reason why I only give you 20% is because this official paper is sold in my father's name, and 20% is reserved for military supplies."
"The early experiments on new paper and movable type printing were all completed by the Jingzhao Yin Sima family. The subsequent papermaking and printing are still dominated by them. As the initial investors, they received 20% of the profits. I think It’s extremely reasonable.”
"Because I came up with the technology of papermaking and movable type printing, so I want to keep 30%."
"There is still another 10%. My idea is to give it to the emperor today to support His Majesty's daily expenses."
"Although we share 20% of the profit equally, you should be able to analyze the amount of the profit. After all, the new paper and movable type printing technology are unique to us."
"And I believe that the reputation gained from selling Cao Gong Paper and the Thousand Character Classic is what everyone values more."
"You don't need to invest money. You only need to use family members, disciples and old officials to help with publicity and promotion, and you can get profits. What do you think?"
Cao Zhang calmly introduced in detail how he had roped in a few people to participate in the business and profit distribution, and asked for their opinions...
