Eunuchs who traveled through the Qing Dynasty

Zeng Guofan said with a smile: "I was a little surprised that Anqing was regained so quickly. But this is not due to me alone. Speaking of it, it is really thanks to you, brother!"

"Me?" Xiao Ran wondered, "My lord is joking, I am a slave, and my job is to serve my master well. How can I have such a blessing to contribute to my lord?"

"Hey, my brother is too polite to say that!" Zeng Guofan shook his head, and said seriously: "Anqing has long hair, has a lot of soldiers and food, and is really fierce. The reason why our army was able to capture it smoothly was thanks to a batch of troops newly allocated by the imperial court. New firearms. One is a breech-mounted bomber, which uses explosive shells, which are extremely powerful; the other is a mine, which is buried in the ground and can be fired at the touch of a button. The accuracy and range of the rifle are several times that of the shotgun. With these treasures, if I can’t take down An Qing, there is really no place for my old face! After all, these things are worn by the Ministry of Industry. It was developed by Lord Tongdai. If you hadn’t had the insight to recommend Lord Dai in front of the Emperor Daxing, how would you have the achievements of today’s Bohan? So, brother, you are my great nobleman!”

Only then did Xiao Ran understand what he meant.He waved his hands and laughed, "People say that gold can shine everywhere, and Dai's invention can be carried forward. It is the blessing of our Qing Dynasty. It is the Emperor Daxing who knows people and uses them well. I will never take the credit for it." land."

A look of approval flashed in Zeng Guofan's eyes, and he said, "Don't spoil me, don't take credit, Brother Xiao is really different from ordinary father-in-laws. Well, then, to celebrate the joy of my Qing Dynasty, I drank this cup!"

Xiao Ran didn't refuse any more, and drank it down in one gulp.This private room has a rear window open, looking out, it is full of lush trees.Shivering intentionally, he said: "My lord, forgive me: Xiao Ran occasionally felt a cold on the road, and should not let the wind blow, shall we close the windows?"

Zeng Guofan said with concern: "How is it? Is it heavy? I see that you are still wearing a bandage around your neck. Could it be that you are injured?" As he spoke, he stood up and went to close the window himself.Xiao Ran was startled, afraid that he would walk into the window, so he jumped up, walked around the table and rushed in front of him, and said, "How dare you trouble your lord? I can do it myself!"

Standing at the window and looking around, I saw the shadows of the trees blown by the breeze, but I couldn't see anything.He covered the window with his backhand, and he was worried, so he inserted the window latch, and then he went back to the table and sat down.Zeng Guofan saw that his behavior was a little weird, but thinking about it, these father-in-laws in the palace did have a lot of eccentricities, so his eyebrows twitched slightly, but he didn't say anything.

The two put the lamp back on and chatted some gossip.Zeng Guofan suddenly said: "This time I came to Chengde, I also want to trouble my brother with two things. I wonder if you can help Bohan with this."

♂ Volume 7 Jedi Strikes Back♀

→Chapter 079 - Righteousness←

Ran already guessed that he had something on his mind, and said without hesitation: "Your Excellency has always been in charge of the people, and it is really a blessing for Xiao Ran to be able to serve you. Your Excellency has something to do, but please tell me, as long as I can do it, I will do my best."

Zeng Guofan didn't expect him to agree so happily, he was a little surprised at the moment, but also very grateful, after watching him for a while, he sighed: "With your words, my brother, it can be seen that I, Zeng Guofan, did not find the wrong person this time. Throughout his life, Bohan has merits and demerits, reputation and reputation. He dare not say that he is concerned about the country and the people, but he is full of passion, his heart can be shown, and his heart is as evidenced by the thick soil! Although you are in the palace, my brother, your status Your knowledge is different from other father-in-laws. You must know some things in the court. There are only two of us here, and you and I don’t have to hide it. The group of ministers are probably saying that I am serious. Killing, despising the people, grabbing land, and gaining top positions. I have been in the army for more than ten years, and I have earned a lot of fame and infamy. I can hear you say that today, and I am really grateful in my heart all!"

Zeng Guofan's words really came from the heart.There is a saying that Muxiu will be destroyed by the forest wind. This Wen Zhenggong can be called the most important official among the Han people.It is rare for Xiao Ran to have a few figures in the late Qing Dynasty that he likes, and among them, Zeng Guofan is a well-deserved one. I have also read "The Biography of Zeng Guofan" two or three times, and I know a little about his life story and temperament, so when talking with him, you can choose what he likes.Wei Yi pondered, and said: "The one who is clean is self-cleaning. Life is life. You can't cover everything, just ask for a clear conscience. A gentleman acts with his own principles, how can the generation of a villain understand it? The heart is wide, the world is broad, Care what other people do?"

Zeng Guofan couldn't stop his jaw, and said approvingly: "That's right. These few words are really ingenious. I can't think that my brother can have such a thoughtful attitude at such a young age. It's really rare! The younger generation is awesome, the younger generation is awesome!" After exiting, he felt something was wrong again, and looked at Xiao Ran again, with some regretful expressions unconsciously showing in his eyes.Xiao Ran knew that he was wondering, he was a good person.Why did you become a eunuch?So far in life, this is the only way to explain it in this life!

Zeng Guofan also realized his gaffe, waved his hand and said: "Forget it, don't talk about these unnecessary things. I want to ask my brother to do it today, but there are two big things!" You are also a person who has led soldiers to fight, what do you think of the new firearms?"

Without thinking about it, Xiao Ran opened his mouth and said: "Nowadays when these two armies are confronting each other, the quality and quantity of firearms are playing an increasingly critical role. No matter how good a weapon is, it is hard to compete with flowering cannons and new-style rifles. It can be said that in the future In ground wars, the quality of firearms will be directly related to the outcome of the battle. It is just that the research and development of firearms in the Qing Dynasty has just started. Compared with Western firearms, the types are relatively single. The production technology is backward, the scale is small, and the output is low, which is not enough. Equip troops on a large scale."

Zeng Guofan said a little excitedly: "Well said! My brother's words are concise and to the point. The steamer in the West is very tight. It's a pity that I have a great Qing Dynasty. Since the first battle in Guangzhou until now, the navy has always been used. People were crushing and beating me, and I had no power to fight back. Anqing was regained a month ago, and I immediately wrote a note to the court, requesting the opening of the Anqing Ordnance Institute, and developing firearms by myself. It is a pity that there is no official order so far. I don’t know if this memorial is reserved You are still submerged in the middle. My brother, you were originally a person close to the empress dowager, and you have been in the army. In terms of status, you can speak for yourself. As long as you can persuade the empress dowager to send this scripture to the military aircraft department for proposal, then things will start to take shape What do you think?"

This memorial was indeed retained for a very simple reason. In the final analysis, Zeng Guofan was a Han Chinese, and his position and power had already been envied by others.Therefore, the empress dowagers of the two palaces withheld this matter, and Sushun was busy with the intrigue with Prince Gong. This time, the matter of Luan was so urgent that he didn't have the heart to pay attention to it. down.

The establishment of the Anqing Ordnance Institute is a symbol of the Westernization Movement. Zeng Guofan need not say anything about this matter, Xiao Ran also needs to help. He immediately said: "I am in the ancestral system, and eunuchs are not allowed to participate in military affairs. But if you don't care about anything else, just do it for your lord." If you can trust Xiao Ran, if you don't say anything, you must risk your life to speak out!"

Zeng Guofan sighed: "My brother speaks quickly, and is sincere and gentle. There are not many ministers and workers in my Qing Dynasty who can match your knowledge. It's a pity, a pity!"

After sighing, he said: "The second thing is that when I was young, I was ordered to go to Huai to supervise military affairs and form the Huai Army. However, the current military budget of the imperial court is tight, and it has been delayed for three or four months. This matter is still delayed. , and ask for your help, brother!"

Xiao Ran knew that at least it was Li Hongzhang's name. This Li Hongzhang was originally Zeng Guofan's aide, and his friendship with him as a teacher and student, and the establishment of the Huai Army was probably also Zeng Guofan's idea.It's just about military expenses, which is beyond his capacity, he hesitated, and said: "I'm afraid I'm powerless in this matter. Financial expenditures have always been coordinated by the Ministry of Households and the Ministry of Internal Affairs. How dare I intervene as the vice-manager of the palace? I'm afraid the empress dowager will not spare me."

Zeng Guofan said with a smile: "Although you and I met for the first time, it's rare for us to hit it off. You don't need to tell me about it, I understand it in my heart. What I mean is not to let you intervene in finances, but..." After a pause , said in a low voice: "I heard that my brother's health care product company is booming. Most of the wealthy and rich gentry in the south have fled to Shanghai because of the long hair. If you can set up a branch there , presumably this sum of money is a steady profit!"

Xiao Ran was taken aback for a moment, but then he understood his intention.The imperial court's military expenditure was allocated by the local finance department, and then allocated by the Ministry of Household Affairs and the Ministry of Internal Affairs. However, due to the emptiness of the national treasury, the military expenditures of the provinces were seriously arrears.When the military affairs in other provinces are tight, sometimes the local finances will be used, and what is reported to the imperial court is only a clear statement, and the right is to supplement the military expenses.Since the case of delayed reporting of military expenditures in Yunnan and Guangxi, it can be regarded as a precedent. The current situation is chaotic, and the court has nothing to do with these local emperors.Now Zeng Guofan is leaving.Undoubtedly this is the way.

Then I thought, this Mr. Wen Zheng is really cunning.Let Xiao Ran set up a branch in Shanghai first, just to test the waters; if the imperial court doesn't go into it, then he can make arrangements on his own territory later.But this matter is a great benefit to me. First, I have these local emperors to protect me.The business in Jiangnan will be able to open up the situation immediately; second, not only get on the side with Zeng Guofan, Li Hongzhang and other Westernization factions, but to a certain extent, they also hold the lifeline of the economy; third, no matter what attitude the court has in the end

It is the opinion of the magistrate, and he will not bear any responsibility.Deliberately said: "Okay. The company's affairs. I can still arrange it. Since the adults are so trustworthy, I will try my best. But Jiangnan is not peaceful after all, and the adults have to take care of it and take care of it."

Zeng Guofan was overjoyed, raised his glass and said, "Naturally! The matter of the same nature is our top priority. There is nothing to say about the escort. It takes people to help people, and we have to work hard!"

Having said both things, Xiao Ran was somewhat surprised.I thought that what he asked of himself was about the current situation.Did not expect but did not mention a word.After pondering for a while, he said: "It's really a coincidence that my lord will have to travel hundreds of miles to Chengde this time. If it takes ten and a half months, the emperor will probably return to Luan. Go directly to the capital. But don't you save a lot of energy?"

Zeng Guofan naturally knew the deep meaning behind his words, smiled lightly, and did not answer.After pondering for a long time, he personally filled a glass of wine for Xiao Ran, and said: "Whether it is Chengde or the capital, Bohan is finally ordered to go out, and he dare not stay for a long time. Cleaning up the southeast and calming Changmao is my current priority." First things first, just like you, brother, as the deputy head of the palace. In the final analysis, handling the affairs of the palace is the main issue. Do you think this is the truth?"

Xiao Ran suddenly realized.Zeng Guofan was trying to protect himself and stay out of the matter.In fact, this is exactly what Wen Zhenggong excels at. No matter how much the court fights, as long as he can hold the military power and dominate one side, he will always be invincible.And to a certain extent, he has clearly realized that Prince Gong will eventually defeat Sushun, and he has already figured out a way out for himself.

The last sentence is clearly meant to remind Xiao Ran that it is best not to get into this troubled water.Even though it was the first time he met Xiao Ran, through this conversation, he had an unusual liking for him. The most important thing was that Xiao Ran now played an irreplaceable role for him.Thinking of this, Xiao Ran smiled and said: "My lord's words are like enlightenment, Xiao Ran knows what to do, please rest assured."

Zeng Guofan raised his glass full of wine and said with a smile: "This trip is really worthwhile to meet you. My brother is in the palace, and it is rare to have such insight and talent. The future is limitless .To speak a common saying, my brother still relies on you to speak well in front of the Empress Dowager!"

After finishing speaking, the two laughed and had another drink.After chatting casually for a while, Xiao Ran suddenly said: "Your Excellency is busy with business, so I dare not delay for long. I wonder when Your Excellency plans to leave?"

This question was very abrupt, Zeng Guofan was also taken aback, and said: "What does my brother mean..."

Xiao Ran said in a low voice: "To tell you the truth, this time I am serving the princess and her party. When I came out of the capital, I met some suspicious people on the way. I was worried that they would be unfavorable to the princess, but after a few face-to-face meetings, I saw them again. No. I happened to meet you here, so I wondered if it could be... Oh, of course, I just guessed like this myself, I just want to remind you to be careful in everything. "

Zeng Guofan firmly believed in Xiao Ran's words.Right now, the government is in chaos, and people are in danger. No one can guarantee what kind of trouble he will encounter when he returns to Chengde as a general.His face immediately turned serious, and after pondering for a while, he said: "It's okay, I'm accompanied by experts from the guard camp, so there shouldn't be any trouble. But you and the princess should also be careful. Either way, we're going along the way anyway, so let's go together How about going?"

Xiao Ran hastily said: "Thank you for your kindness. It's just that the princess is a concubine after all, so it seems to be against the rules. In addition, this time we also have a big inner guard to protect us secretly, so there will be no mistakes. I think it's better for your lord to be careful. There is a way to understand." A gun is easy to hide, but a hidden 'gun' is hard to defend!"

Xiao Ran missed a single word on purpose, and Zeng Guofan suddenly came to his senses.He knew the range and power of this new rifle. If someone was ambushing in secret, even if there were guards, it would be difficult to prevent the enemy from being assassinated.His face became more and more gloomy, and he said, "According to my brother, what should I do?"

Xiao Ran pondered for a while.Said: "Xiao Ran's humble opinion: Your Excellency has two large carts, it is better to divide the team into two groups, you put on the clothes of the guards, leave in one group first, and then make people pretend to be you, and then slow down. As long as you can catch up as soon as possible To Chengde. Naturally, it will be safe. What do you think, my lord?"

Zeng Guofan's eyes lit up, he nodded and said: "Well, it's a good plan to lie to the truth and hide the truth!"

After such an accident happened, the two stopped talking and said goodbye in a hurry.Zeng Guofan changed his clothes as a guard, and found a handkerchief to cover his face.More than ten guards, including Dai, left first.Sun Datou and the others dragged on for more than an hour, reckoning that they had already gone far, so they delayed on their way.Xiao Ran originally planned to leave as well, but he was worried about Lin Qing'er, so he simply asked for a room in the store, and Ning Wei and the others rested.

Until it was completely dark, Lin Qing'er was still nowhere to be seen.Xiao Ran was in a hurry and didn't even bother to eat, so he kept walking up and down the room.Ning Xin comforted him and said: "Don't worry, Sister Qing'er has strong martial arts skills and is smart. She will definitely be fine, maybe she will be back in a while!"

But after midnight, Lin Qing'er still didn't come back.Sitting on the chair, Xiao Ran stared blankly at ***, and fell asleep in a daze.It's really like thinking day by day and dreaming at night, dreaming that Zeng Guofan was killed for a while.For a while, he dreamed that Lin Qing'er was besieged by a large group of people, and for a while he dreamed of a ghost with disheveled hair, holding a piece of bloody human skin, and screaming strangely: "Good son-in-law, come and have a drink with me! "One end said, and the other rushed over with teeth and claws.Xiao Ran screamed in fright and bumped his head against the corner of the table.Only when I opened my eyes did I realize that I was dreaming, and I broke out in a cold sweat unknowingly.Secretly smile.Just as he was about to stand up, he suddenly found someone standing beside him at some point.He slipped his tongue and was about to scream, but took a closer look, the man was dressed in white.With a graceful figure, it was Lin Qing'er.

Overjoyed, Xiao Ran hugged her and said, "Qing'er, you're back! You girl disappeared without making a sound, I'm so worried..."

Before the words finished, Lin Qing'er pushed violently, and Xiao Ran fell down on the chair with a thud.It was only then that she realized that her pretty face was covered with tears, and the tears kept dripping down the tip of her jaw, which had already wet the clothes on her chest, presumably she had been crying for a long time.

Ning Xin went to her sister's room, but Bao Lu was not there. There were only two people facing each other in the room, which made people feel suffocated.

"Qing'er, listen to me..."

"What are you talking about? I don't blame you if you don't avenge me; you said you would kill Zeng and shave your head, and I believe you too. Now, what else do you want to say?"

Lin Qing'er's face was pale, and every time she said a word, it seemed that she had exhausted all her strength.Xiao Ran's heart

He took her hand and said, "Qing'er, you misunderstood me. Listen to my explanation."

"Explain what? Mr. Xiao, haven't you lied to me enough?" Lin Qing'er raised her head, and tears flowed down like broken beads, "Qing'er asks himself the truth about you. I don't care about anything. I didn't ask you for anything else, I just ask you to treat me sincerely. But you, why did you lie to me? You know that the dog thief who once shaved his head is my sworn enemy, why, Why do you want to protect him?"

At this time, all rhetoric is useless, Xiao Ran sighed, but said firmly in a low voice: "Zeng Guofan can't be killed."

"You are finally... finally willing to tell the truth, good, good." Lin Qing'er's last glimmer of hope was also shattered.The body swayed violently and was about to fall.Xiao Ran wanted to help her, but she threw it away forcefully, pulled out a gleaming hunting knife from her bosom, flipped her wrist, and pointed the blade at Xiao Ran.

"Qing'er, you..." Xiao Ran was taken aback, but Qing knew that with his own abilities, he could not escape the girl's grasp no matter what, so he simply did not evade, and said with a wry smile: "Okay, I am the one who is sorry for you. If I kill you I can eliminate the hatred in your heart, let's do it."

Of course he knew that Lin Qing'er wouldn't take it seriously. Such scenes were seen a lot in later generations of movies.However, the tone of his own lines sounded full of sincerity.Sure enough, the cold blade trembled for a long time, Lin Qing'er loosened her fingers, and the dagger fell to the ground with a clatter.

"That's all! You saved my life that day, and today it's considered that I repaid your love. From now on, you and I... will never give up!"

Lin Qing'er burst into tears, stomped her feet fiercely, covered her face and ran to the door.Damn, the lines are not like this!Xiao Ran was really anxious this time, he rushed forward and hugged her by the waist.

"Let go!"

"Don't let it go!"