Chapter 60. Blackmail and persuasion.
However, although he knew that Chen Dongxiang had the attribute of "white-eyed wolf" and had many small tricks in private, Zhao Junchen didn't know how to deal with him. 【Read the latest chapter】
If they deal with it rashly, Zuo Lanshan, Gu Quan and others will inevitably feel as if the rabbit has died and the fox has died, and it will easily make people panic. The reason why the entire Ministry of Industry abandoned Wen Guanliang and switched to Zhao Junchen was Chen Dongxiang. Without any evidence of retaliation, Zhao Junchen cannot act at will, otherwise his reputation will inevitably be affected.
And just when Zhao Junchen was thinking about how to beat Chen Dongxiang, under Zhao Junchen's gaze, Chen Dongxiang became more and more uncomfortable and felt a little uneasy in his heart.
He is a smart man and has already thought of the purpose of Zhao Junchen traveling with him. I want to say something, but I don't know how to say it.
Now, because of Wen Guanliang's incident, Chen Dongxiang's life or death is completely in Zhao Junchen's hands, so when facing Zhao Junchen, Chen Dongxiang has no confidence at all.
"Master Chen." As Zhao Junchen suddenly spoke, Chen Dongxiang's body trembled slightly: "I heard that after Wen Guanliang broke up with me, you strongly opposed Wen Guanliang's hostility to me, which can be called a long-term vision. So in your opinion, Why did Wen Guanliang lose to me in the first place?"
After Chen Dongxiang pondered for a moment, he replied cautiously: "Of course, your Majesty has great skills, is popular with the people, and is loved by Your Majesty. Wen Guanliang did not know his own capabilities and rashly went against Your Majesty. The end is already expected."
Zhao Junchen smiled and said: "Master Chen has one thing right, that is, Wen Guanliang does not know his own capabilities. As the saying goes, 'Know yourself and the enemy, and you will never be in danger in a hundred battles.' However, although Wen Guanliang knew the enemy, he did not know himself. At that time, because of Zhan Shanchang's incident, his officials He was already panic-stricken, but he still wanted to be hostile to me. As a result, it turned out that his influence was far greater than mine, but in the end he was drained by me, and his subordinates all abandoned him. In the end, he ended up alone, and his allies made trouble for him. "
After sighing leisurely, Zhao Junchen continued: "However, in the final analysis, it is still because he has treated Lord Zhan badly and made his officials disappointed in him. If people's hearts are not there, how can they win?"
Hearing what Zhao Junchen said, Chen Dongxiang forced a smile and said, "My lord, I understand."
Zhao Junchen shook his head slightly and said: "It's not that I can see clearly, but the cause and effect of this matter are very clear. It's hard to understand. When I saw Wen Guanliang's fate, I told myself in my heart that as a human being, Self-knowledge means you need to know how much weight you have and how much weight you have, so that you can do big things. If you do it rashly without knowing the importance, you may end up even more miserable than Wen Guanliang. Mr. Chen, do you think this is true? ?”
Chen Dongxiang's face turned slightly pale, and he was still smiling, but he said more reluctantly: "Your Excellency is wise, and what he said is absolutely correct."
This time, Zhao Junchen did not answer. He seemed to be thinking about something. During the silence, he tapped the car with his fingers. The tapping sound was crisp and rhythmic, constantly putting pressure on Chen Dongxiang.
Sweat gradually appeared on Chen Dongxiang's forehead and temples.
Suddenly, Zhao Junchen sighed - Chen Dongxiang's body trembled again - and then said: "When Wen Guanliang betrayed his relatives, I was greatly touched. I have been reminding myself these days. , we should treat our officials better. Only in this way can everyone return to their hearts. However, after reading through the history books, I found that there were many monarchs who treated others kindly, but they were also betrayed and abandoned many times. This shows that they were blindly tolerant. It’s not okay to stay for a while, so what can Mr. Chen teach me about this?”
Chen Dongxiang forced himself to remain calm. Although the carriage was dark, Zhao Junchen could still see the paleness of his face: "Sir, don't worry. With your gentle temperament and your methods, everyone can see it, so how can you do it?" Being confused with Wen Guanliang? Who would betray Your Excellency? Who would dare to betray Your Excellency? If there really is such a ruthless person, I will not let him go as the first official."
Zhao Junchen looked astonished and said: "I see, I have learned a lesson."
Chen Dongxiang repeatedly said he did not dare.
Zhao Junchen said with a smile: "However, Wen Guanliang's end experience not only gave us a warning, but also gave us some tips. In the officialdom, as long as we can have self-awareness and ensure that we are united, then no matter what No matter what others do, we can't easily bully us, don't you think so, Mr. Chen? Because of this, I have been focusing on integrating the factions under my sect these days, and now I am finally getting results. Today, I met with Shen and Huang. The two cabinet elders talked to each other. It is because of this that I have the confidence to protect you, Mr. Chen. However, since ancient times, no matter what happens, it is easier to destroy than to build. Now we are a group of people who are stable and know each other well. It’s not easy, and it doesn’t allow anyone to destroy it. I trust Mr. Chen’s vision and ability, and I will keep an eye on it for you from now on. Don’t let those villains ruin your hard work."
Chen Dongxiang nodded repeatedly and said, "I understand, I will not let you worry."
Zhao Junchen smiled half-heartedly: "That's good."
As Zhao Junchen finished speaking, the carriage suddenly stopped.
Outside the carriage, Xu Qingyan's voice sounded: "Sir, Mr. Chen, the Chen Mansion has arrived."
………
After Chen Dongxiang got out of the car, he waited respectfully and humbly by the car, waiting for Zhao Junchen to leave. However, his head was lowered, so Zhao Junchen couldn't see clearly whether his eyes were filled with panic or resentment.
However, after this conversation, Zhao Junchen's goal has been achieved.
After this beating, no matter whether Chen Dongxiang had any different intentions or not, at least in a short period of time, he would definitely not dare to make any small moves again.
After a period of buffering and preparation, if Zhao Junchen dealt with Chen Dongxiang again, the impact would not be great.
"It depends on your own choice. Everyone has ambitions and selfishness. I still have tolerance for these, but the premise is that your ambitions and selfishness will not have a negative impact on me..."
Looking at Chen Dongxiang in front of him, Zhao Junchen thought to himself.
After nodding to Chen Dongxiang, Zhao Junchen said to Xu Qingyan in front of the car: "Go to Tianhai Tower."
………
When Zhao Junchen arrived outside Tianhai Tower and just got off the carriage, the shopkeeper of Tianhai Tower came in a hurry.
"Master Shangshu, you are finally here. Mr. Wen of Wen Pavilion has been waiting for you in the private room for a long time."
The shopkeeper said to Zhao Junchen in a flattering manner.
Zhao Junchen was slightly stunned and asked Xu Qingyan beside him: "Qingyan, what time is it?"
Xu Qingyan replied: "Master, Youshi hasn't arrived yet. The post clearly states that we are not late for the banquet at Youshi."
Zhao Junchen nodded, and while walking towards Tianhai Tower, he asked the shopkeeper: "When did Mr. Wen Ge come?"
The shopkeeper said: "Back to Master Shangshu, Mr. Wen Ge has already arrived halfway through the application time."
While he was talking, Zhao Junchen arrived at the top floor of Tianhai Building with the support of everyone, only to find that Wen Guanliang was standing outside the private room with an expressionless face, but there seemed to be a hint of sadness, and he was actually greeting him personally. Zhao Junchen.
Although Wen Guanliang lost power, he was still the respected elder of the pavilion. Whether it was out of helplessness or not, this gesture gave Zhao Junchen enough face.
Seeing that Wen Guanliang looked a little embarrassed, Zhao Junchen couldn't help but think of a month ago, when he was still the one to entertain Wen Guanliang. However, Wen Guanliang made Zhao Junchen wait for more than an hour before he came late, cheering from behind. , and then not long after, he waved away again without making any sense.
How arrogant and powerful was Wen Guanliang at that time?
But now, the attitudes and actions of the two people have completely reversed.
As the saying goes, "People are poor and have short ambitions," this sentence is somewhat appropriate when used here.
Feeling secretly sighing in his heart, Zhao Junchen quickened his pace, cupped his hands and said, "Please forgive Mr. Wen Ge, I'm late."
To be honest, in Zhao Junchen's eyes, Wen Guanliang had almost no redeeming qualities, but after all, he was old and a senior, so Zhao Junchen still gave him enough respect and courtesy.
Wen Guanliang could feel Zhao Junchen's respect and courtesy, and a look of gratitude flashed in his eyes.
"It's not my fault, Mr. Zhao, it's because I came early."
Wen Guanliang's voice was hoarse and his face looked old. Compared with a month ago, he seemed to be a different person.
While talking, the two of them entered the private room together and sat down separately.
Because Shen Changmao and Huang Yourong hadn't appeared yet, Tianhai Tower only served some cold dishes, but wine bottles and wine glasses were prepared.
I saw Wen Guanliang pouring himself a glass of wine, then raising it and saying to Zhao Junchen: "Master Zhao is hosting a banquet today and has invited Lao Chan and Shen and Huang, two pavilion elders. Lao Chan has probably guessed what it is about. Although I know that Mr. Zhao did not do this because of me, but I have taken advantage of it after all. No matter whether this matter can be done or not, Mr. Zhao, I will remember your kindness."
As he spoke, Wen Guanliang drank the wine in his glass.
Zhao Junchen even said he didn't dare, and drank all the wine in the glass with Wen Guanliang.
After putting down the wine glass, Zhao Junchen said: "Since Mr. Wen Ge understands Xiaguan's thoughts, the next words will be easy to say. Now that Mr. Shen Ge and Mr. Huang Ge have not come yet, Xiaguan happened to be with Wen Ge Tell me something important."
Seeing Zhao Junchen's serious expression, Wen Guanliang nodded and said, "Sir Zhao, please speak."
Zhao Junchen glanced at the entourage behind Wen Guanliang, and then said to Xu Qingyan beside him: "Qingyan, go and wait outside the restaurant. Mr. Shen Ge and Mr. Huang Ge are probably coming soon. Go and greet them."
Xu Qingyan was slightly startled, but nodded anyway.
Seeing Zhao Junchen like this, why didn't Wen Guanliang understand what Zhao Junchen meant? He also sent away his entourage.
For a time, only Zhao Junchen and Wen Guanliang were left in the private room.
Under Wen Guanliang's gaze, Zhao Junchen played with the wine glass in his hand and organized his words.
Wen Guanliang was also waiting quietly without urging.
After a long time, Zhao Junchen finally spoke: "Mr. Wen Ge, you want to return to your hometown as an official. Although you have been blocked by Shen and Huang, the lower official has his own way to persuade them."
Seeing Wen Guanliang's face beaming with joy, Zhao Junchen changed his subject and continued: "However, in my opinion, the resistance to Mr. Wen's return to his hometown does not lie with Mr. Shen and Huang, but with His Majesty!"
Hearing Zhao Junchen's words, Wen Guanliang's body trembled, with a look of disbelief on his face.
Zhao Junchen explained seriously: "Brother Wen, think about it. Your Majesty has already hinted that you want to return to your hometown as an official. But why did His Majesty's attitude always remain the same when Mr. Shen and Huang blocked it?" Can’t you say no? And let me, Mr. Ge, postpone your official appointment again and again?”
Wen Guanliang was silent, a coldness flashed across his face.
After all, he was experienced and experienced, and his vision was by no means inferior to that of Zhao Junchen. However, these days, just Shen Changmao and Huang Yourong had already dealt with him to a great extent. He had no time to think about more long-term and deeper things, and he did not dare to think about them.
Seeing that Wen Guanliang was silent, Zhao Junchen sighed softly and continued: "I heard that Mr. Wen Ge has a good management. Over the years he has been an official, his family wealth has been no less than ten million taels..."
Wen Guanliang gritted his teeth and said, "Mr. Zhao, do you mean that His Majesty is eyeing the old man's family fortune?"
"It's the wealth you gained from corruption!" Zhao Junchen corrected him slowly: "If you let Shen and Huang continue to attack like this, Mr. Wen, you will definitely be charged and imprisoned. By that time, your home will also be ransacked. It is unavoidable, and according to the rules of our court, the income obtained by the ministers from ransacking their homes must belong to His Majesty's inner treasury."
Wen Guanliang's face was pale, but he did not refute Zhao Junchen's corruption remarks.
Zhao Junchen smiled slightly and added: "However, the cabinet ministers took the lead in corruption, and the number was as high as tens of millions. If such things were spread among the people, it would have an impact on the people's morale. His Majesty knew very well, and he did not want to see it even if he thought about it. So, if Mr. Wen Ge takes the initiative to hand over some money to His Majesty, then not only can you keep your reputation and family, but you may also be able to keep some for your retirement. Of course, for Mr. Wen Ge, this may be a bit difficult, but the money After all, the gains from corruption are easy to come by, and you don’t feel bad if you lose them. Compared with your wealth and life, it is still very cost-effective to buy peace with money. Please consider it carefully, Mr. Wen."
Wen Guanliang was silent for a long time, but Zhao Junchen was not in a hurry and continued to play with the wine glass in his hand, leaving him time to think about it.
"Master Zhao." After thinking for a long time, Wen Guanliang suddenly spoke: "Are you willing to help me again and transfer the money to His Majesty on my behalf?"
Wen Guanliang thought very clearly that it was imperative to allocate some money to Emperor Deqing. As Zhao Junchen said, this was "safe money" that must be spent. However, if he was allowed to directly bribe the emperor like this, Wen Guanliang There was nothing wrong with him in his conscience, so he thought of Zhao Junchen, a favorite in Emperor Deqing's eyes.
"Of course." Zhao Junchen nodded and did not refuse. This was not the first time he had bribed the emperor. Although the bribe this time was extra large and the matter was extra serious, it was Wen Guanliang's after all. Silver, even if something goes wrong, he can get away with it: "I wonder how much silver Mr. Wen Ge is willing to give to Your Majesty?"
After hearing what Zhao Junchen said, Wen Guanliang nodded gratefully. After hesitating for a moment, he gritted his teeth and raised a finger.
Ten million taels? This is almost all of Wen Guanliang’s wealth! Could it be that Wen Guanliang planned to sell off all his houses and fields?
Just when Zhao Junchen was shocked by Wen Guanliang's courage, Wen Guanliang looked distressed and said slowly: "How about one million taels?"
As Wen Guanliang finished speaking, Zhao Junchen almost choked on his saliva.
Wen Guanliang's reputation for being greedy for money is well-deserved.
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