Chapter 753: Innocence and a Clear Conscience
Although Zhang Yue was nominally four years younger than Yu Qian, he had lived two lifetimes after all. Moreover, in the imperial examinations, he had passed in the 16th year of the Yongle era, while Yu Qian had passed in the 19th year—giving him the advantage of being an elder. In terms of official career, he had risen steadily since entering government service and eventually became a high-ranking official after Zhu Zhanji ascended the throne. Now, upon meeting again, he no longer felt the surprise he had felt the first time he encountered such a renowned figure. After exchanging polite greetings, he gestured for Yu Qian to sit.
“It’s so late. What brings You Shiyu to see me?”
“I have already reviewed all the case files,” Yu Qian said. He had spent an entire afternoon and evening going through everything compiled by the Provincial Administration Office and the documentary evidence provided by Gu Xingzu. Having formed his own opinion, he spoke directly, “Before leaving, I heard that Lord Zhang submitted a memorial about the possibility of growing rice twice a year. All the ministers in the court were overjoyed by this, and so was I. Now, after examining the case files and interviewing witnesses, it’s clear who is right and who is wrong. The Marquis of Zhenyuan lied to deceive the court and even sent people to incite unrest among the people. I will surely render a fair judgment. But there is still one thing I don’t understand, and I would like to ask Lord Zhang.”
Zhang Yue had long been aware of Yu Qian’s integrity and uprightness, so he wasn’t offended at all. Sitting behind his desk, he looked up and said, “You Shiyu, please speak plainly.”
“The eunuch in charge of maritime affairs, Qin Huaijin, tried to flee to avoid punishment and even bribed some Li people to assassinate officials in the government office—these are serious crimes. He was initially under close surveillance. Why, just a few days after Lord Zhang arrived, did he suddenly commit suicide out of fear? And why did those Li assassins also commit suicide? Such a vile eunuch deserves a severe punishment, and those assassins should be publicly tried to set things right. If not, there wouldn’t be such a stir in the city! Lord Zhang, in the past, many scholars criticized you for being promoted to a high position despite coming from a noble family. But those criticisms have long since subsided. Like others, I respect your character, abilities, strategies, and courage. But knowing that eunuchs are causing trouble, you should have spoken out and advised against it clearly—why settle for vague excuses?”
At this point, Yu Qian simply stood up, walked back and forth in the room a few times, before turning around and saying, “Since the Yongle era, more and more eunuchs have been sent to oversee local areas. In places like the Maritime Administration, these eunuchs even hold more power than officials, rendering such agencies ineffective. Towards the end of the Yongle period, it was Lord Zhang who orchestrated the plot against Huang Yanjiang and others, leading to their execution in public. Later, Wang Guan was beheaded in Xuanfu to uphold justice and order. The case of Qin Huaijin earlier was precisely an opportunity to expose their treacherous schemes—so why was it handled so quietly? Does Lord Zhang know that the palace now openly establishes an Inner Study to teach literacy to young eunuchs under ten years old? Even Emperor Taizu’s teachings have been ignored!”
Zhang Yue had been leaning back in his chair listening, gradually sitting up straighter. By the time Yu Qian suddenly turned to look at him, his brows were furrowed even tighter. He didn’t hold much prejudice against eunuchs—after all, as long as imperial power existed, such a distorted group could never be eliminated. And who could be closer to the emperor than those who served him day and night?
If eunuchs violated the law, they should naturally be punished according to the law. But whether in the past or now, their actions usually involved plotting treason before seeking judgment; otherwise, it would be an abuse of power. As for establishing the Inner Study in the palace, it turned what was previously illegitimate into something legitimate—definitely Zhu Zhanji’s own idea, not someone else’s instigation. Some things were inevitable for now; how could he persuade against them?
Thinking of this, his gaze toward Yu Qian grew deeply thoughtful. “Have you told Governor Gu about these words of yours?”
Having spoken so much in one go, though not feeling fearful now, Yu Qian had vented all his pent-up frustrations from traveling thousands of miles. He no longer carried that imposing aura and sat down again. “Before I came to Guangdong, Governor Gu had already discussed the issue of eunuchs. He was deeply concerned about it, so I kept thinking about it along the way. Just now, it was because of seeing Qin Huaijin’s many evil deeds that I spoke out. If I’ve offended you, please forgive me, Lord Zhang. But these are my sincere words. Since you are an emperor’s trusted minister, you shouldn’t stand by idly on this matter.”
Zhang Yue had once spent a considerable amount of time at the Censorate. At that time, Gu Zuo had just been transferred to the position of Right Censor-in-Chief, so he knew quite a lot about this official often compared to Bao Zheng. However, being upright was one thing, being honest and incorruptible was another, and speaking out frankly with criticism was yet another—if every court official were as stubborn as Li Shimian, who would constantly end up in prison for years by speaking out, then who would handle the important affairs of the court? Although Gu Zuo was decisive in his new role, he focused on eliminating the corruption and corrupt officials within the Censorate, refraining from commenting on matters involving eunuchs out of prudence as a high-ranking official.
Looking at Yu Qian’s earnest expression, he couldn’t help but think of the famous poem “Ode to Lime.” After pondering for a moment, he said, “Sir Yu, in my early years, I heard someone recite a wonderful poem that left a deep impression on me. Today, by chance, I would like you to give it your opinion.”
“Please, sir Zhang, teach me.”
“Forged through countless blows from deep in the mountains,
Endured fierce flames as if they meant nothing,
Unafraid of being reduced to dust or bones,
Determined to leave purity in this world.”
As Zhang Yue recited the poem, he watched Yu Qian’s reaction. Sure enough, as soon as he finished the four lines, Yu Qian suddenly stood up, astonished, and asked, “How could Sir Zhang have read this humble work of mine?”
It turned out that these four lines, now famous throughout history, had already existed!
Zhang Yue thought this in his heart but smiled and said, “When I first read these lines, I was struck by their powerful momentum and unique style. The ambition behind them was far beyond that of ordinary people, and the emphasis on purity served as a reminder. That’s why I’ve always been curious about the poet. It was only passed down to me by others, and their name was never revealed. I never imagined it was written by you, Sir Yu.”
“I passed the provincial examination at the age of fifteen and intended to take the imperial examination right away at seventeen. But I failed, so I retreated to the Sanmao Temple on Wu Mountain, where I wrote this ‘Ode to Lime.’ I never expected it to become widely known.” Recalling that after the provincial examination, fellow scholars had printed poems and articles, and some had even taken pieces from him, Yu Qian no longer doubted Zhang Yue’s claim. After all, given the latter’s status and background, there was no reason for him to pay attention to a mere Censor. “This is merely something I happened to write; I certainly don’t deserve Sir Zhang’s praise.”
“Throughout history, I doubt there are many who could compose such verses. Yet there are a few things I must say. Since ancient times, the common people have always hoped for honest officials in power, for fear of corrupt ones exploiting them. But then, which kind of local governor is more competent: one who is honest but ignorant of agriculture and water management, and can only reduce taxes by defying orders, or one who, though somewhat adaptable, can encourage farming, understand water management, recognize favorable weather and terrain, promote commerce and support agriculture, thereby making the region prosperous and ensuring the people have enough food and clothing? The same holds true for high-ranking officials in the court. While speaking out against corruption and being demoted shows the integrity of a worthy official, it also means that talented individuals who could benefit the people end up isolated or even killed. Even if they inspire future generations, a harsh judgment might label them as mere seekers of fame!”
Yu Qian opened his mouth as if to argue, but Zhang Yue spoke slowly and clearly, “Take Gu Duxian, for example. He rose from county magistrate to censor, from deputy inspector to governor of Ying Tianfu and then Shun Tianfu, only to be demoted to inspector of Guizhou. Without the recommendation of Yang the Grand Preceptor, no matter how talented he was, how could he have benefited the world? If he had started by causing chaos over eunuch affairs upon taking office, how could he have brought order to the Censorate and promoted a group of competent censors, thus cleansing the officialdom in the capital? Scholar Yang once said that serving the emperor properly and offering advice effectively should serve as a model for all. The matter of Qin Huaijin happened less than a year after the emperor ascended the throne. Though the emperor was furious, he could only suppress it. As for the eunuch issues in the palace, they cannot be resolved in a short time. Brother Tingyi, that’s all I have to say. You may go now.”
This was the first time Zhang Yue had addressed Yu Qian by his given name since his arrival that day. Coupled with what he had said earlier, even Yu Qian, who was originally determined, could not help but waver slightly. Yet he had written the famous poem “Ode to Lime” at the age of seventeen, passed the imperial examinations in the third tier, and despite not being appointed to any official position, he never underestimated himself. He was not someone easily shaken. Still, these words deeply disturbed him. So he stood up, bowed deeply, and left the room without looking back.
With him gone, Zhang Yue finally relaxed his upright posture, leaning back comfortably and gazing at the ceiling in thought. Over the years, he had interacted with countless people, but he feared dealing with upright gentlemen the most, for the scales in their hearts could not be easily tipped. Even if there had been noTumu Fortress Incident or the Coup of the Palace Doors, Yu Qian would still remain the honest and upright Yu Qian, never becoming the flexible Zhang Juzheng. Just like Li Wenchang, the former head of the Maritime Administration, who, after his petitions were rejected, reportedly kept sending more and more letters without any restraint. Yet without that integrity, he would no longer be Yu Qian.
Knock, knock—
Hearing a soft sound outside the door, Zhang Yue quickly snapped back to reality and called out for someone to enter. Seeing Du Wan come in, he was slightly surprised: “Weren’t you with Jingguan and Sansan, accompanying Eunuch Zhang in conversation?”
“The two kids kept calling him ‘Grandpa Zhang’ nonstop, chattering endlessly and even refusing to sleep. They kept begging Eunuch Zhang to tell them interesting stories from abroad—so there was no need for me to be there,” Du Wan said. She signaled Mother Cui, who had come with her, to wait outside, then closed the door and stepped forward. “Eunuch Zhang is worried that this upright Yu Yushi might do something unexpected, so he sent me to check on you. Judging by your appearance, does it mean Eunuch Zhang was right after all?”
“The matter concerning Gu Xingzu isn’t serious. He came to accuse me over another matter.”
Zhang Yue briefly mentioned Yu Qian’s words before sighing bitterly. “I couldn’t help myself just now and said too much. But integrity is easy to lose. It might not matter if I say these things to him or to that Gu Duixian, but if I tell others… Although it’s best to avoid being too forward with those you know little about, I still wanted to warn you.”
“You act so old-fashioned. She’s even older than you, yet you treat her like an elder! As for the eunuchs, she’s not wrong. If I count them on my fingers, it seems those high-ranking eunuchs in the palace all have good relationships with our family, right? Yu Yushi was polite in his words. If it weren’t for your good reputation, someone might accuse you of colluding with eunuchs to deceive the emperor!”
Hearing a soft laugh behind him, gentle hands began to massage his shoulders. Zhang Yue felt warmth in his heart and grabbed that jade hand, saying softly, “Am I the kind of person who fears being criticized? There are things I won’t do recklessly, but there are also things I won’t back down from, no matter what—‘Even if a million people stand in my way, I’ll still go forward’…”
As he spoke, he suddenly sprang to his feet, pulled Du Wan into his arms with force, and then sat down. Seeing her startled, he smiled and kissed her red lips. After a long while, when he pulled back, seeing her struggling to stand up, he whispered, “Don’t worry. I know Mother Cui is outside. Just stay with me for a while.” With those words, Du Wan felt less panicked, though she still glared at Zhang Yue irritably. Zhang Yue seemed unaware of her angry gaze; he simply held her slender waist and after a while said softly, “I’m not a saint—I certainly can’t live a humble life while caring about the world. But since I already have all the wealth and glory, it’s only right to do something meaningful for future generations. After all, one day when we close our eyes, our children will still be alive in this world. Wan’er, if it were you, what would you do?” Du Wan stared at Zhang Yue for a long time before suddenly smiling and saying, “I only know that no one else would necessarily do better than you.” “Having such words from my wise wife is enough!” Zhang Yue smiled and then released his wife. He stood up and adjusted his wrinkled clothes, saying again, “I still say the same thing—just strive to have a clear conscience; there’s no need to take on everything!” That night, some slept soundly with their loved ones in their arms, some wrote diligently yet struggled with fatigue at their desks, some tossed and turned all night without sleep, while others, in a torture chamber lit by blazing torches, remained unmoved even as they heard cries of despair for mercy… When everyone met again in the interrogation room the next morning, Zhang Yue and Zhang Qian, who had either spent the night in affection or slept soundly, naturally looked radiant. Li Long and Yu Liang were yawning, but that was because they were uncomfortable with their beds. Only Gu Xingzu, who hadn’t slept all night and had to get dressed carefully early in the morning, had bloodshot eyes. However, Fang Ling and Yu Qian did not appear for a long time. Everyone waited in the three main halls for a long time before someone finally entered—the same Jinyiwei officers who had taken turns resting the previous day. Though their eyes were deeply sunken, they were still in high spirits. As soon as they entered, they stood in the four corners of the room, hands clasped together, their bodies as straight as poles. Soon after, Fang Ling and Yu Qian entered one after another. Just as those who didn’t understand what was going on thought there would be more back-and-forth arguments, Fang Ling calmly uttered astonishing words: “Last night, this office interrogated all the witnesses and reviewed all the case files with Censor Yu. The cause and effect of this matter are now clear. Marquis Zhenyuan, since you have now handed over the duties of the commander-in-chief, come with us back to the capital.”