Shanghai, public concession, Holy Trinity Church.
“We march forward with our heads held high, the sound of trumpets and the sound of harps.
Gather together in the temple of the Lord to worship Him.
Join hands and sing together to praise our Lord, the glorious King. "
The chants sounded in the tall and magnificent worship hall, and the songs were full of traces of the passage of time, making people seem to step into history in an instant.
Zuo Zhong sat on the chair in the last row, quietly looking at the choir next to the pulpit, his hands folded and resting on the back of the chair in the front row, not knowing what he was thinking.
"Is it possible that Mr. Zuo is also religious?"
Suddenly, a tall and thin man in a robe came from outside the church, walked to him gently, sat down and asked.
"I only believe in Samminism."
"But the leader and his wife are also followers of the religion (harmony)."
"So a leader is a leader."
Zuo Zhong replied with a pun, then turned his head to look at the other party: "Boss Du invited me here today not to discuss faith. If you have anything to say, please just tell me.
I will handle everything you can and cannot do, as long as it complies with the law and does not violate the rules of the Secret Service. After all, you and my mentor are sworn friends and are my elders. "
Boss Du, one of the three tycoons in Shanghai, smiled bitterly. He was really a little fox. He was telling himself in and out of his words that today's conversation was between the elders and the younger ones, not between the Intelligence Department and the Cao Gang.
After thinking about it, he sincerely pleaded for some people: "Du has seen your methods in the past few days. More than thirty named tycoons were killed at home or in the downtown area.
Everyone in the Jianghu is in danger. My brothers in the gang have asked me to send a message to Director Zuo. I hope you can show your dignity and stop killing people. The Cao Gang will never betray the country and the nation. I can guarantee this. "
"Oh? Boss Du."
Zuo Zhong showed a kind expression, pretending to be curious and asked: "Can Zuo understand that if we don't stop and continue to eliminate the traitors and scum, Caobang will defect to the Japanese?
If this is the case, please boss Du, please tell them that before you accept a thief as your father, you must think carefully about your children, wife, and parents at home. We people don't talk about the harm to our wives and children. "
Boss Du's face slowly turned cold. He didn't expect that the other party was so unkind and would directly use his family to threaten him. But then he thought again, isn't this the style of spies and the government?
Chang Yuqing's wife and son who stayed in Shanghai were liquidated a few years ago. To this day, no one is alive or dead.
If they offend Jinling, these officials can do anything, and their tricks are even worse than theirs.
Dai Chunfeng is no longer the bad boy who was in trouble back then. When there is no conflict of interest, everyone may still be able to live in peace.
On the other hand, it is hard to say whether the dignified director of the Bureau of Investigation and Statistics will recognize him as his elder brother. Thirty years in Hedong and thirty years in Hexi. The old saying is true.
Thinking of this, Boss Du slowly shook his head and gave his own answer: "Although our Caobang members are all reckless people, they also know that they are loyal to the emperor and serve the country, and will never turn to the Japanese and become sinners of the nation.
You can kill traitors, but you can't stalk them. In our line of work, we inevitably have to deal with all kinds of religions and forces. Even I often eat and drink with the Japanese.
Does your office want to eliminate me? Please give me a face, Deputy Director Zuo, and say hello to Du before taking action. If he deserves it, Caobang can provide necessary help. "
Zuo Zhong knew that the other party had not finished what he said. If he was not the one who deserved the punishment, I am afraid that Caobang's offer was not help, but revenge. This was a courtesy first and then an attack.
"Mr. Du misunderstood. I don't know how other agencies do things. Our Secret Service has conclusive evidence for arresting and executing people, and will not wrongly accuse any good person."
He listened to the chant carefully and said calmly: "Similarly, I will never let a bad guy go. Tell me before taking action that I cannot agree. The most important thing in intelligence operations is confidentiality.
However, after taking action, we will provide corresponding evidence to Mr. Du to avoid making it difficult for you. After all, you are a senior, so I still have to give you this face. What do you think? "
The Caobang has vast magical powers in Shanghai, and they will inevitably use them in future operations behind enemy lines. There is no benefit in making it too rigid now. It is nothing more than deleting part of the case closing report and giving it to the other party.
In short, Zuo Zhong gave the bottom line. It depends on whether Boss Du will accept it. If he doesn't accept it, the Secret Service will not be afraid of falling out. He does not believe that all the people in the Cao Gang are willing to betray their country for glory.
"That's very good."
As worthy of being the most knowledgeable of the three tycoons, Boss Du immediately agreed to Zuo Zhong's conditions without hesitation, and then changed the subject to another matter.
"Deputy Director Zuo, the cooperation between Ji Yunqing and the Japanese is only verbal and has not reached an irreversible point, so I think the matter still needs to be discussed. I don't know what you think.
Boss Zhang said that as long as you can let the couple go, he is willing to pay fifty thousand US dollars as a reward. If it is not enough, he can add more. This is considered a favor that he owes you. You can do whatever you want in the future.
Moreover, Ji Yunqing was nearly seventy years old, and even if he was released, he would only have a few years to live. He had to be spared and spared, so why would Deputy Director Zuo have to deal with a dying man? This was Du's sincere words. "
"Fifty thousand dollars, what a big deal."
Zuo Zhong looked at the Crucifixion above the church and said leisurely: "Money is a good thing, but money must be spent with life, just like Judas who betrayed his conscience for more than thirty silver coins, and his body was thrown into the altar after his death. The valley of Hinnom.
If I took the fifty thousand dollars today, I'm afraid it would end in the same way. I would die with my body intact and be scorned by others. The younger generation is timid and would never dare to take this kind of ill-gotten wealth. Please understand, Boss Du.
Ji Yunqing was not a verbal cooperator. There were important criminals wanted by the government in his home, and in his study there were thousands of top-secret documents lost by the Shanghai Special Municipal Government.
Can such a person be redeemed? I know that Boss Zhang regards him as a benefactor, but there are big and small kindnesses. I think Boss Zhang should understand which is more important.
At the same time, forgive Zuo for saying too much. It's time for them to cut off their ties. Even if the incident spreads, it won't affect Boss Zhang's reputation in the world. After all, $50,000 has been spent. "
Zuo Zhong made it clear directly that if Boss Zhang wanted to gain a reputation for loyalty, that would be no problem.
I can cooperate in spreading today's conversation and help him stabilize his character as a spy. Anyway, a spy doesn't need a good reputation.
I want to save people, but I can’t.
Ji Yunqing's collusion with the Japanese is a sure thing. At least he can't let him go without authorization. If Boss Zhang and Boss Du can really find a connection with Tongtian, it has nothing to do with him.
Boss Du opposite was very satisfied with this answer. This was enough. Ji Yunqing had indeed helped and saved Boss Zhang decades ago.
But this is all a waste of time. No matter how great the kindness is, how much kindness can be left today can only be paid lip service to.
Boss Zhang is not a fool. It is unnecessary and even unworthy to fall out with the government for an old man. Loyalty is for others. The most important thing is money. This is the real world.
There were a lot of thoughts in his mind, and after being silent for a while, he asked again: "There was a little boss named Long Wu in the public concession. He disappeared on the day of the fire in Ji Mansion. His subordinates came to ask me for help in finding him.
Deputy Director Zuo knows where the person is, whether alive or dead, just give Du an answer. I know that this person is very close to the Japanese. Even if he is sanctioned, he is seeking death. "
That's right, there are things that you, a Cao Gang boss, can't get involved in. Wouldn't it be better to make more money? Why bother to wade into this muddy water.
Zuo Zhong narrowed his eyes after thinking about it. Speaking of Long Wu, the Japanese's death trap for him was a key figure in it. Naturally, he would not let him live in this world.
When they went to Ji Mansion, Wu Jingzhong led people to kill this guy. As for where the body was, it was probably floating in the middle of the sea.
So he told Boss Du directly without hiding anything: "The person must be missing. Boss, please inform Long Wu's men, and Long Wu's property will be given to them. The Secret Service does not like those things.
As long as they can remember that they are Chinese and do not act as a scheming agent, we will not attack innocent people. I hope they will remember how their boss failed and not follow in the footsteps of Long Wu. "
"Thank you."
Boss Du thanked him. He knew some of the rules of the Secret Service. He did not sue his parents, nor his wife and children. The fact that the other party said these words really gave him face.
After talking about business, he looked at his watch and stood up to say goodbye softly: "I won't disturb Deputy Director Zuo's pleasure. I will go and sit with Du when you have time. If you need Du, please feel free to ask.
No matter what others think of us, I always remember that I am a Chinese. The Japanese want us to be subjugated slaves. I am the first to refuse. Brother Dai and Jinling please rest assured. "
"Boss Du is righteous!"
Zuo Zhong stood up and responded solemnly, because the other party not only said this, but also did this. This alone is better than some people in the government who take advantage of the people's support but surrender to the enemy.
After the two exchanged hands, Boss Du lifted up the front of his robe and walked out with his head held high. Accompanied by more than a dozen armed bodyguards standing outside the door, he got in the car and left quickly.
It seems that the secret service's anti-rape operation has frightened many people, and even the other party is a little unsure. Today, it is not so much to convey the intentions of the Cao Gang, but to inquire about information.
The older you get, the less courageous you are. Tycoons are also human beings. They are also afraid of being blown up by dangerous objects while eating, and they are also afraid of being shot into pieces by more than a dozen submachine guns while walking on the road.
Zuo Zhong smiled lightly and sat down again. The sun shone into the church through the stained glass windows, and the light and shadow shone on his face, giving people a warm feeling.
Walking in the dark, it was a rare opportunity to face the light. He just sat there with his eyes open until someone sat down next to him and said something to him.
"Shen Zhong, what did Boss Du say?"
"Just as you expected."
"Haha, these charlatans are here now."
"Teacher, aren't you going to see him?"
The person who appeared next to Zuo Zhong was Dai Chunfeng, the director of the Bureau of Investigation and Statistics. He was wearing a woolen top hat and sitting on the side near the wall, hiding in the shadows.
Hearing the question from his proud disciple, he chuckled: "So what if we see you, so what if we don't see you. If this sworn brother of mine opens his mouth to intercede for Ji Yunqing, will I agree or not?"
It's better not to see it, to avoid embarrassment, and be careful in the end. When we are in your position, we often have no choice but to give up something for the benefit of the country. Do you understand? "
Zuo Zhong lowered his head respectfully and replied: "Student understand, I just followed your instructions and said that Boss Du is a sensible person and did not hold onto Ji Yunqing's affairs.
This means that we don’t have to think too much about the reaction of the Cao Gang in the next anti-corruption operation. Those who have colluded with the Japanese as explained by Chang Yuqing and Ji Yunqing can be punished. "
"Sanctions are sanctions. Don't make too much noise. Dangerous goods also cost money to make. Arson and shooting can kill people."
Dai Chunfeng seemed to have become a rich man in Jin Province, and the abacus beads were crackling. It was obvious that the Secret Service's use of dangerous goods exceeded the budget.
As he spoke, he looked at Zuo Zhong and asked with great concern: "How is your injury? I have said many times that when you perform a mission, let your subordinates go, so don't take the risk yourself.
A gentleman does not stand under a dangerous wall. You should know this truth. As the deputy director, your duty is to command, not to fight the enemy gun-to-gun or gun-to-gun like an action officer.
The leader heard that you were at the scene of the air raid, but he gave me a good lecture and wanted to transfer you back to Jinling, but I stopped him with my persuasion. You must not make the same mistake again in the future. "
"yes."
Zuo Zhong nodded obediently. In fact, he understood what the other party said. The problem is that this is not a time of peace. If you are in danger and you are not a superior, how can you convince your subordinates?
It's okay now, but when the Guo army is defeated again and again, and retreats again and again, official positions and military ranks alone will most affect the staff of the headquarters, and the local district stations and front-line personnel will not care who you are.
Take Zheng Tingbing, for example. Historically, he took over as director after Lao Dai's collapse. Due to lack of grassroots support, he was embarrassed by Li Qiwu's methods and was completely ignored by the other party.
If you want to have an advantage in the future struggle, you must have tangible achievements and your own personality charm. Only in this way can you stand firm in the tide.
However, thinking about it, he still expressed his gratitude to Lao Dai for his concern: "Thank you, teacher, for your concern. The student's health is no longer serious. Thank you for sending Dr. Ling, otherwise the student would not have recovered so quickly.
By the way, besides dealing with Ji Yunqing's matter, do you have any other tasks to assign when you come to Shanghai? The Secret Service's operational personnel in Shanghai have rested and are ready to be dispatched at any time. Please rest assured. "
At this time, the choir just finished singing, and they walked to their seats in twos and threes. Dai Chunfeng patted Zuo Zhong on the shoulder, and the two slowly walked to the lawn of the church and chatted quietly.
"You captured Chang Yuqing this time, eliminated the traitors who were conducting espionage activities in the Chinese border, and also eliminated the hidden dangers in the Ninth Group Army Headquarters. The leader gave high praise."
Dai Chunfeng clasped his hands behind his back and first praised the work of the Secret Service. This was purely an official article. Zuo Zhong understood that the next words were the key point. Sure enough, Lao Dai said again in a deep voice.
"The war in Shanghai is not going well. The senior officials wanted to capture Hongkou while the Japanese were still on their toes. However, given the current situation, it is impossible, so some things will have to be put on the agenda.
In order to strengthen the intelligence work against Japan, the leaders intended to split the Bureau of Investigation and Statistics into two parts. The first branch was renamed the Bureau of Investigation and Statistics of the Central Executive Committee, while the bureau headquarters and the second branch remained unchanged.
The specific split will have to wait until next year, or at least until the battle in Shanghai is over, but things are basically settled and there will be no major changes.
The next one will be called the Central Committee, which will still be responsible for party intelligence work and dealing with the underground party. The Chang'an incident has proven that dissidents and internal problems are our biggest concern.
Over there, Xu Enzeng served as the first director. This time he volunteered to clear out the underground party's dens. Although he failed, his courage was commendable. He was able to take advantage of this bastard. "
Speaking of this, Dai Chunfeng glanced at Zuo Zhong with a smile. He, his disciple, probably never expected that he would let the secret service headquarters act as a scapegoat and instead help Xu.
Without this "attack on the underground party stronghold", it is difficult to say whether Xu Enzeng could have become the director. Who has allowed the other party to fail again and again over the years.
The leader assigned him to that position, firstly because of the affection of the Chen family, and secondly because he felt that dealing with the underground party involved hard work and no merit. Besides, hiring people was "excellent".
Zuo Zhong really didn't expect it, and he couldn't laugh or cry at the same time. If he had known this, he would rather attack the department store himself than let Xu Enzeng take advantage of it.
This bitch was so arrogant when he was the director, but he still doesn't know how high he will raise his tail when he becomes the director. God is really short-sighted.
It was rare to see him frustrated, so Dai Chunfeng laughed and continued to introduce the high-level deployment.
"I am the director of the new Bureau of Investigation and Statistics. For the sake of work continuity, the position of deputy director will be held by several deputy directors of the Secret Service, namely you, Zheng Tingbing, and Zhang Yifu.
It consists of the Secretary's Office, the Inspection Office, the Accounting Office, the Technical Office, the First Intelligence Division, the Second Intelligence Division, the Operations Division and the Telecommunications Division. These four offices are responsible for specific business.
You guys will be in charge of separate tasks and jointly assist me in military intelligence and Japanese work, especially since the latter is related to the fate of the country, so the burden on you is not light.
Shen Zhi, I hope you will approach your new position with an attitude of walking on thin ice. When you get to that position, everyone will be observing and studying you, and you won't make a single mistake. "
After hearing Lao Dai's knocks and reminders, Zuo Zhong was thinking about why Lao Dai's position was director, and shouldn't it be deputy director? He thought about it and quickly realized it.
Since the other party was promoted to Major General Quan Xu a few years ago and assumed the post of director of the undivided Bureau of Investigation and Statistics, many things have changed.
Relying on the series of espionage cases he solved, Lao Dai gained more attention from someone, and it was normal for him to be promoted.
Moreover, Xu Enzeng has become the director, and it is obviously inappropriate for Dai Chunfeng to be the deputy director. In this way, Teacher Lai Yi has also benefited from himself.
But why did he become the deputy director? The big spy leader Zuo Zhong~ Now Gong Delin didn't even need to go, he was shot on the spot.
Zuo Zhong complained secretly in his heart, and naturally flattered him.
"The student's qualifications are still relatively low. Being able to hold this position must be due to the teacher's recommendation. I will be loyal to the party and the country and strive to make new achievements."
"It's good to have this understanding."
Dai Chunfeng was very satisfied. Some people did have different opinions on this matter. They thought that Zuo Zhong was too young and had only been in the Secret Service for four or five years, so how could he hold the position of deputy director.
In this regard, he only selectively mentioned a few tasks that Zuo Zhong had performed, and the opponents fell silent. If the children of those four families had made such achievements, I am afraid that the director could be the one.
After instructing Zuo Zhong, Dai Chunfeng walked to a stone bench and sat down, telling him the specific personnel arrangements one by one.
"I plan to hand over the secretary's office to Zhang Yifu, the inspector's office to Li Qiwu, and the accounting office to Zheng Tingbing. Since the old man from the Secret Service still has it, I can rest assured.
The director of the newly formed technical office is your old friend, Yu Xingle. As for his original position as head of the East China District, I have other arrangements and will discuss this later.
The first intelligence department and the second intelligence department are under your guidance. One of them is responsible for intelligence, and the second department is responsible for counterintelligence. You are good at both. Don't let me down.
I am in charge of the Operations Department personally, the Telecommunications Department and Lishan Company have been merged, and Wei Daming has been appointed as the director. This is roughly the situation.
From now on, we can just concentrate on dealing with the Japanese. The division of responsibilities will be clearer and clearer, and there will be less blame-shifting and competition for credit among each other. "
Zuo Zhong understood after hearing this that the new Bureau of Investigation and Statistics was just a large secret service, with only some members of the original bureau headquarters added in.
I guess this is someone's Machiavellian strategy. The division of labor is just an excuse, and taking advantage of the opportunity to reduce power is the purpose. The Secret Service Headquarters has been unable to hold its head high by the Secret Service, and has a tendency to gradually become a vassal.
A country cannot have only one intelligence agency, as that would be dangerous to the superiors, so someone would simply separate the first and second agencies and make them independent from the administrative relationship.
Now it's good. Without the Secret Service Headquarters holding back, the Bureau of Investigation and Statistics can free up its hands and do big things. That's why Dai, who has been decentralized, is so happy.
"Let's talk about Yu Xingle."
While Zuo Chong was thinking about it, Dai Chunfeng talked about the East China District: "Due to the special nature of Shanghai, when the Secret Service was first established, I arranged for the East China District to be managed together with the headquarters.
The East China District is responsible for such a large area, and there will inevitably be omissions in the Shanghai work, which cannot meet the requirements of the war. For this reason, I decided to establish the Shanghai District to hit the force to do a good job in local intelligence work.
After Yu Xingle went to Jinling, the East China District was handed over to the former deputy district chief. The personnel stationed in Shanghai and the elite transferred from other districts and stations joined the Shanghai District. Chen Gongshu went from Peking to Shanghai to take charge of the overall situation.
The Shanghai District in my plan has 22 liaison groups, 4 telecommunications stations, 1 accounting office, 5 intelligence groups, and 8 action brigades, with a total of 50 units and 1,000 personnel.
As for the intelligence personnel, you must seize the time to deploy them. They must be assembled before November. If something goes wrong in Shanghai, they will immediately enter a dormant state and wait to be awakened. "
More than 1,000 people!
Zuo Zhong was stunned. How many people were there in the Secret Service? 1,000 people meant that most of the field elites were stationed in Shanghai. Good guy, Brother Gongshu has really become a frontier official this time.
Also, lurking in Shanghai is not a good job. You may die at any time. If you don't have enough power, it will be difficult to open the situation. Realizing this, he nodded quickly.
"Understood, I'll make arrangements right away."
(End of chapter)
