Chapter 55 The 52nd Meeting of the Heroes in the Room to Make a Big Plan, Meet an Old Friend and Present a Robe on the Car

When Yingting was speaking and he was at a loss for what to say, a man came out suddenly and suggested to Jian Guo: "Why should we rely on Xiangzi City? If he is loyal to support the court, he must not put on airs like this. Now that he can't evade it, we can't do it. No need for him. According to Yichen's idea, there is no need to make a fuss over a molehill, and there is no need to use anyone. We can eliminate this catastrophe with just a piece of imperial edict. He is the bravest, most open-minded, and the first military master in the Manchu and Qing clans, the Duke of Zhenguo, Shanfu, who the court relied on as his heart and soul.Since he came back from studying abroad in Japan, he has made several statements about the military, and he has written a lot of strategies for expanding the power of the people and preventing the development of the Han people.Therefore, Zaifeng trusted him very much, and he was specially appointed as the left servant of the Ministry of Army.Among the Manchus in Beijing, one must always be considered the first one with strength.When Zaifeng saw him come out to speak, he didn't look at it with others, and hurriedly asked: "If you have any brilliant ideas, you might as well just say it, and I will adopt it at your discretion." Shanfu said: "Nowadays, the whole court is full of revolutionaries. It is wrong to think of them as bandits, and to send troops to suppress the laundering is the best policy. It must be known that the nature of the revolution is very different from bandits. They are all young people with ideas and hope, and their purpose is to force the court to make a constitution and convene Congress , so that the people can all get suffrage. If the court allows this, it will be like dredging the bottom of the pot, and the revolutionary party will naturally be eliminated. Why bother to mobilize the masses, and must use troops to crusade! So the minister said that only a piece of imperial edict is needed to win This is the reason for the 100,000-strong team. I don't know what the master thinks?"

When Zaifeng heard this, he suddenly realized it, and immediately smiled. After all, your knowledge is different from others. We will follow this way and keep it at our own discretion.But this imperial edict has to be spoken sincerely and movingly to be effective.As far as I think, you don't need to make a fake cabinet Zhang Jing, just draw it yourself.I will take a look at the draft and publish it immediately, and send a telegram to all provinces across the country.When the people heard the news, they naturally stopped supporting the Revolutionary Party.Shanfu saw that the regent had given him the power to draw up the decree, so he took out a paper draft from his pocket and presented it to Zaifeng with both hands, saying that it was drawn up by the minister, and he was going to make a temporary one. refer to.Since Ye Jia sent his ministers to draw up the decree, he submitted the draft and asked Ye Jia to judge it wisely.Zaifeng took it over and rewarded him a few more words, saying that he was meticulous in thinking and quick in handling things.Then he inspected his original manuscript carefully, read it back and forth seven or eight times, and then asked Shanfu: "It is true that your drafting is very sincere, but if you do it like this, won't it completely reduce the authority of the royal family?" ? Even the royal family’s expenditures have been fully determined. The ancients said that only jade food is provided, and jade food is available in all directions. I am afraid that since ancient times, there has been no restriction on the monarch. It seems that this level needs to be considered in the long run.” Shanfu said with a smile: "This is just a way to deceive the people. How can Grandpa recognize the truth? As long as we get rid of the matter in front of us, what will happen in the future is not up to us to change." Zaifeng said: "Although it is said so , but in the future there will be a National Congress to supervise, so I'm afraid we can't be so casual." Shanfu said: "What is a National Congress? It will not be commanded in the future and can be dissolved at any time." Zaifeng said: "I always feel that it is not very good-looking. According to my idea, I removed this article and changed it to nineteen articles, and it can be dealt with perfunctorily." Shanfu saw that he had already approved the nineteen articles, and only canceling this article would be considered a full face for himself. It's not good to argue anymore, so he played: "My father's order is very serious, so please send it to the cabinet and announce it accordingly." Zaifeng immediately sent King En to come forward, handed the manuscript to him, and ordered it to be published on the same day.King En took it over and looked at it, and asked, "Who drafted this decree?" Zaifeng pointed to Shanfu and said, "It was drafted by him. What do you think, can it be used?" King En frowned and said: " If we follow these nineteen articles, won’t we completely reduce the power of the royal family? This is a century-old policy, and it’s not just for a while. If we announce it like this, the people will get what they want. I’m afraid the court will regret it in the future. , please Wang Jia think twice." Zaifeng said: "Your thinking is too old-fashioned, as long as the current trend passes, will things in the future be difficult?" Enwang said: "Although you say that, but this The Nineteen Articles, since they are called creeds, should not break the promise of the people. If you have a heart to break the contract in advance, you may still make trouble in the future." Zaifeng said: "Why worry about it for so long, we just care about the present As long as the provinces in front of us don’t agree with the Revolutionary Party, put down the chaos in Hubei, and everyone works hard, choose talented people from among the Manchus, distribute them in various provinces, train a few more reliable bannermen in towns, and supervise their traitors anytime, anywhere. Can it lead to a second revolution?" King En saw that he insisted on publishing the nineteen articles, and he thought it would be useless to remonstrate, so he agreed, and asked the cabinet Zhang Jing to re-order the text, and to seal the letter with the regent.Then En Yula's three cabinet ministers signed and stamped all of them, and sent them out immediately.It also distributed the telegrams to the provinces, and asked the governors and governors of the provinces to print the transcripts and post them in the counties, so as to inform the people that the imperial court really respected public opinion and implemented constitutionalism.

Zaifeng and Shanfu thought that with this decree, the chaos in Hubei could be settled without a fight.Even the rest of the provinces have absolutely no support for independence.Unexpectedly, the effect received was absolutely opposite to what they had hoped for.Not only was the momentum in Hubei growing, but there were also urgent calls from Nanjing and Shanghai, saying that Jiangning City had declared independence, and the Governor Zhuang Renjin was forced to leave.Tie Muxian was doing exercises in Nanjing, but he was also driven away.Even Zhang Shaoxian, the famous and brave champion of the three armies, couldn't support him, so he was protected by outsiders to get out of danger.This is not a novelty, the most frightening thing for Zaifeng is that Shanghai also declared its independence, and Cheng Qimai, the most famous leader of the Youth Gang of the Democratic Party, was publicly elected as the governor.He also sent a telegram to the United States to invite Sun Yat-sen, the leader of the Revolutionary Party, to come back to China and take care of everything.Sun Yat-sen has come all the way, and he will arrive in Nanjing sooner or later.He also matured to the movements of the Eastern and Western countries, recognized the revolutionary military government as a legitimate group, and treated it the same as the Manchu Qing government.For their actions, absolutely neutral attitude, will not interfere.

When this kind of news spread to Beijing, it really frightened Zaifeng and his relatives. They were like ants on the pot all day long, unable to sit or sleep restlessly, as if the revolutionary army was about to arrive in Beijing.Most of these princes and Baylor's Fujin wives ran to the Liuguo Hotel to escape, so rumors were spread on Shanghai posters, saying that such-and-such Wang Fujin ran away with Yang Xiaolou, who sang an opera.In fact, there is no such thing, but at this time, people's hearts in Beijing have already floated to the extreme.What everyone is looking forward to day and night is that Xiangzi City will come to Beijing early.However, this Mr. Xiang, who has repeatedly put on airs, just doesn't come anyway.Although King En sent several private letters, he still didn't get the point.Zaifeng asked everyone, what must be done to get Xiangzicheng out of the mountain?Later, King En thought of a way, let's say this, send one of the best ministers in Tongzicheng to visit Zhangde in person, and ask Zicheng's meaning in person, what is the meaning of Zicheng.Then do as he asked, of course he has no room for excuses.Zaifeng said who should be sent?King En immediately recommended two people: one Wen and one Wu, Zhao Bingheng for Wen and Duan Jixiang for Wu.Because these two people are all old subordinates who were single-handedly promoted by Zicheng.Zhao Bingheng has served as Minister of Civil Affairs, and Duan Jixiang has also served as Town Commander.Later, Zicheng was convicted and resigned, Zhao Bingheng was also dismissed, and Duan Jixiang's township was also taken away by others, and he was reassigned as the general manager of Baoding Jiangwu Academy.Although these two lost their positions, they still kept in touch with Xiang Zicheng in secret.Zhao Bingheng never left Beijing, and Duan Jixiang's subordinates, such as Cao Huchen and others, always had the will to help Xiang Gongbao and still obeyed Duan Jixiang's command.So since the incident in Hubei, they have been gearing up, ready to take advantage of the time.This time, King En recommended Zhao and Duan to represent the imperial court's intentions, and went to Zhangde to condolences to Xiangzicheng, which was exactly what he wanted.

Then Zhao Bingheng, nicknamed Zhi Duoxing, was originally the number one staff officer in Xiangzi City.He was preparing to go to Henan, to make an appointment in person, to participate in secrets, but he did not expect that the court would choose him.The regent also called him to the mansion, and entrusted him with a lot of things in person, but he just told him to convey to Xiangzicheng and try his best to persuade him to come to Beijing early to take care of everything.Zhao Bingheng agreed one by one, and then stepped back to prepare to leave.On the way, I went to Baoding first, met Duan Jixiang, and invited him to go to Zhangde together.Jixiang is also waiting for Bingheng, so he is naturally overjoyed to see him here.The two had a private discussion on the road. According to Duan Jixiang's idea, they must first exchange terms with Zaifeng. In the future, things will be peaceful in Hubei, and Xiang Gongbao's position will be kept forever.Otherwise, once the chaos is over, the birds are all hidden, and their relatives are allowed to mess around, wouldn't this opportunity be missed in vain?Bing Heng listened to his discussion, but just laughed and didn't answer.Jixiang said: "Brother Zhao, you are a famous wise man, why don't you say a word? Isn't what brother said inappropriate?" Bingheng said: "What you said is right, but you are too honest. Wait Let's discuss it after seeing Gong Bao." Jixiang thought in his heart, my words were honest, but his idea was even hotter.The two talked and laughed, and when they arrived in Zhangde, they got off the car and went straight to the villa in Xiangzicheng, Huanshang Village.The gatekeeper recognized the two of them, so he hurriedly said hello: "Lord Zhao and Duan, you are so free today and come to see my palace guard." The two laughed and said: "If you are sorry, please go up and report, just say the two of us, According to the order of the imperial court, I have an important matter to discuss with Gongbao." The gatekeeper led the two of them to the guest room first, and the old housekeeper Xie Dafu came out to entertain everyone.After a while, a loud voice shouted, and the two of them came to Gong Bao's study.Xiang Zicheng greeted him outside the door, and said with a smile: "It turns out that the two angels have arrived. Please sit inside." .Said that we have long wanted to come to pay respects, but this time we took the opportunity, happy to borrow his special car to come to Zhangde.According to the system of the Qing Dynasty, when the imperial envoys came, didn't the master still have all kinds of rituals to kneel down and beg Sheng'an? Why did Xiangzicheng ignore it this time and didn't follow it?cough!You must know that although Xiang Zicheng had been an official in the Qing court for 30 years, why did he put the Qing emperor in his eyes.As for the regent, he was even more regarded as an ignorant child.Only the Empress Dowager Cixi can really control him when she is alive. Apart from this woman, there is no other one.What's more, Zhao Bingheng and Duan Jixiang are all his confidantes, which is different from the day when the Swiss side came, so he can't remember those frivolous details.

Zhao and Duan met him and talked a few insignificant words first, then Ji Xiangfang formally asked: "Gong Bao's foot disease has healed up recently, I don't know when he will be able to leave?" Zicheng smiled slightly, Calling Jixiang, he said, "Ruisheng, why are you so impatient? Let's discuss it after dinner." Hearing his answer, Jixiang didn't dare to ask any more questions.But Zicheng called his nephew Xiang Kekuan from afar and ordered him to talk with Zhao and Duan.I went to meet guests in the next house again, looking very busy.When Zhao Bingheng saw that Zicheng was gone, he had a private conversation with Xiang Kekuan, asking Gong Bao what was going on, he was so busy.Ke Kuan said: "Fortunately, both of you are not outsiders. Tonight, of course, you will also attend the meeting. Let's be honest. My uncle has distributed electricity to various provinces and places in the past few days. All the old civil and military departments of that year will be called to come. A big meeting was held to resolve the current situation. There were also Henan bandits Wang Tianchong and Bai Lang, all of whom were also invited. It was planned to hold a big meeting in the snow hall in the garden after lighting the lights tonight. But the meeting was not taken We only prepared a Western-style meal, Kung Pao took the chair, everyone held a meeting before the banquet, expressed their views, and decided on a plan to deal with the overall situation. You two came just in time, and if it is a day later, we must also fight I sent a telegram to say hello." Xiang Kekuan was talking happily with Zhao and Duan when he suddenly saw his old family member Xie Dafu come in and said to Xiang Kekuan, "Master nephew, hurry up and arrange a seat. The food and drinks in the kitchen are all ready. Ladies and gentlemen My lord, I have already invited all of you, only two lords Zhao and Duan are left, please also sit in the Lying Snow Hall. The bamboo sedan chair has been prepared outside, invite the three of you to take the sedan chair, and you will be there in a blink of an eye." It turned out that This garden has a very large foundation. It is more than two miles from south to north, and one and a half miles from east to west.Therefore, many bamboo sedan chairs are prepared for the guests to ride, so as not to delay the banquet.Zhao and Duan Tongxiang Kekuan walked to the door. There were bearers waiting outside for a long time.The three of them got into the sedan chair together, and after a short time, they arrived at the Lying Snow Hall.

This Crouching Snow Hall has 15 bright and dark halls, which can accommodate four to five hundred people.There is a long table in the middle, which is seven or eight feet long, and the opposite is full of bamboo chairs.Xiang Kekuan let the two of them into a small room next to him first, and said with a smile: "The people in this room are all old friends with the two of you, so let's talk first." The two came in, and as soon as the people in the same room met , They laughed at each other and hurried over to shake hands.It turned out that Tang Shaoyi, Duan Yuzhi, Ni Shicheng, and Liang Shiyi were sitting in the room. They were all colleagues from Beiyang at that time. When they met here today, it can be said that they met old friends in a foreign land, and they were naturally very close.Zhao Bingheng first took Tang Shaoyi's hand and asked: "When did the second brother come? Why doesn't the younger brother even know about Ying'er?" Tang Shaoyi smiled and said: "I was called by Gong Bao from my original place three months ago. , I have lived here for a long time. You two came today, I know. You have always been happy in Beijing, and your complexion is much better than before." Bingheng smiled and said: "Living in Beijing is suffering, where is the blessing Can you enjoy it? It’s really a blessing to take care of the wild cranes and clouds of the second brother!” The two were talking, and two more people came in, all looking as thin as dry wood and weak.Bing Heng took a look and recognized Ruan Zhongshu and Yang Zhiqi, who were also well-known figures in Xiang Gong's security guards. He hurriedly said hello and said that it was rare for them all to gather together today.Ruan Zhongshu replied earnestly: "Wonderful, wonderful, when brother Zhao will come, I'm so sorry that I didn't go thirty miles away." Duan Jixiang grabbed him and smiled, "Old Ruan, you always do this It's sour, it makes people feel nauseous." Yang Zhiqi interjected: "Ruisheng, be gentle with your hand, Brother Ruan's jade arm is about to be broken by you. You say you are sour, but you forget your arrogance. People are sad." Everyone laughed out loud.Liang Shiyi said: "Let's not talk about it, go to the meeting quickly, you see Gong Bao is here."

Sure enough, Xiang Zicheng was sitting in a bamboo sedan chair and had already arrived at the gate of Woxue Hall.When everyone saw it, how could they dare to be negligent, and came out to welcome them together.Zicheng said with a smile to everyone: "Please sit inside." Everyone came in with him, but they saw that the inside was already full of guests: the group on the left included Yang Xiu, Gu Yan, Cao Yulin, Zhang Jingzong, Jin Guoan, Lu Shao The ancestors are all new figures studying abroad in the East; the row on the right is Wu Kunsheng, Yin Hongsheng, Li Peiji, Cao Huchen, Lu Changrui, Wang Zhankui, Li Cui, Zhang Qinglan, Ma Longbiao, He Jinglian, all famous generals of the Beiyang Department; there are ten or twenty others , but I don't quite recognize it.Fortunately, everyone's seats are all pre-assigned, and red notes are stuck on the tables, and everyone finds the assigned seat and sits down.But Xiangzicheng took the chairmanship of Dongshou.There is a glass of red wine in front of everyone.Zicheng raised his glass and said with a smile: "Please drink this glass, I wish you all progress." Everyone thanked Gong Bao together, took up the wine glass and drank it down in one gulp.The family members who set up the table poured them in order, followed by bird's nest and shredded chicken soup.Zicheng said to his family: "Back down, you are not allowed to come up unless you are called." When the family responded, they hurried out of the door.Then Zicheng stood up and said to everyone: "My dear friends, you don't dislike your brothers. It's a great honor to gather here today to make the scorpion shine. Brothers don't mind being presumptuous. I invite you to come from afar. The person thinks that he is a friend of gold and stone in need. The two are conceived for the country, and they must rely on their talents. It is not a matter of brothers and one family. I think brothers will understand this meaning, and there is no need for brothers to repeat. The situation in China in recent years, It can be said that the rivers and rivers are in decline. Brothers are patriotic and have the heart, but they are powerless. It is expected that they may not feel guilty day and night. But since we were born in China, we cannot see this country ruined by the hands of a few people and do nothing. What's more, this China is We are the mountains and rivers left by our ancestors. If we are ruined by others, we will die. Why should we treat our ancestors and sages? So whenever brothers think of this place, they can’t sleep well and eat. It’s a pity that they don’t have an axe. In vain. If there is a revolution today in Hubei, the imperial court appoints my brother as the governor of the two lakes and the imperial envoy. Although the brother has the heart to serve the country, he does not know where to start. Therefore, I invite all my dear friends to gather together, Let's come up with a long-term peace and stability solution once and for all. Only when brothers are confident can they dare to take on this important task. If brothers refuse to give me the compass, brothers will never come out of the mountains and forests and never come out."

Zicheng had just finished speaking, when one of the warriors stood up and said in a loud voice: "The general was born as a peddler, and he has been with Gongbao for 20 years, without a single moment. Governance. This is not out of personal selfishness. It is actually because the Qing Dynasty is full of relatives and nobles, and they will do whatever they want. Last discussion. It seems that this kind of foolishness has taken over the power of the country. Kung Pao is so talented and unparalleled in the world, but he was sent back to his hometown by them. If this goes on for a long time, my country and society in China must be ruined by them. According to the general's idea, Taking advantage of the revolution in Hubei, our Beiyang generals ascended to the top, gathered together, led 30,000 athletes to Beijing, overthrew the Manchu Qing, and helped Gongbao ascend the throne early. It is expected that no one in the provinces dare to resist. Revolution. If the party knows what is interesting and surrenders early, it will also be named the founding father of the country; if they go against the sky, they will eventually lead their troops to conquer. Forgive them for their mob, how can they defeat the Beiyang temperance division? If they succeed in custody, they will be able to unify the whole country in the near future. Palace If Baoru adopts the strategy of the last general, we can split up civil and military affairs here. This is a rare opportunity in a thousand years and must not be missed. But I don’t know what Gong Bao wants?"

This person has said such a big thing.Everyone saw that he was none other than Cao Huchen, the number one brave general in Beiyang.When he was a food seller in Japan, he met Zicheng in a store and formed an indissoluble bond with each other.It turns out that Huchen is very good at boxing. This year he came to Wagangji in Hua County, Weihui Prefecture, Henan Province because of food sales.This Wagangji is the Wagang Village where Cheng Yaojin and Qin Shubao fell grass. Until now, the folk customs are still strong.It was also Hu Chen who was blessed with great fate, but accidentally met Xiang Zicheng.Zicheng was still a young master at that time, he only brought his family, Xie Dafu, out to play and lived in the upper room of the shop.Huchen lived in the east wing, and only the mother and daughter lived in the west wing.It is said that they were unable to meet their relatives and were trapped in this shop.The woman's husband entrusted his wife and daughter to the shopkeeper, and went to Weihui Mansion to visit friends by himself. He said that he would be back within half a month, and all the restaurant money would be paid back in full when he came back.The store owner, Wang Xiaosan, also agreed.Unexpectedly, he never returned, and two months passed without a trace.Wang Xiaosan did some calculations and said that he owed him more than one hundred and thirty hangs, and he must force the woman to pay back the money.How can the woman have money to pay him back.Later, when it was crowded, Wang Xiaosan came up with an idea, saying that you are leaving your daughter now, won't you sell her to pay the debt?The woman refused at the beginning, so why did Wang Xiaosan make noise all day long, she was so anxious that she could only agree.Wang Xiaosan then found Feng Qi, a human trafficker, looked at him once, and agreed that he was worth 150 dong, and after paying back the restaurant's meal, there were more than 10 dong left over to pay for the wife's return home. Pay in two.The night before, mother and daughter hugged each other and cried loudly because of their separation.Xiang Zicheng was so noisy that he couldn't sleep in the middle of the night, so he got up to inquire about the news.Wang Xiaosan, the shopkeeper, saw that it was Mr. Xiang who got up to ask, how dare he be negligent, so he hurried out with a smile on his face, and told about the past.When Zicheng heard this, he didn't take it seriously, saying that she owed you the restaurant bill, why did she force her to sell her daughter, how could it be that her husband couldn't come back and pay back the money?You tell her mother and daughter that the debt is on me, and there is no need to betray someone.When Wang Xiaosan saw that Mr. Xiang answered, he was still worried, so he smiled all over his face, ran to the West Wing, and told the woman.The woman was naturally very grateful, and hurriedly led her daughter out, kowtowing to Zicheng, saying that this master is really our reborn parents, and if you raise your parents again, you will never be able to repay your great kindness for generations to come.At this time, Cao Huchen from the east room also came out. Seeing this situation, he couldn't stop praising Mr. Xiang for his generosity and helping the poor.The woman has nothing to do, saying that it is rare for all good people to meet in one place.After arguing for most of the night, everyone went back to their rooms to rest.

Unexpectedly, something went wrong the next morning. The trafficker Feng Qi, who is a well-known local stick, set up a cart to pull people the next day.Wang Xiaosan told him that someone would repay the debt and would not sell anyone anymore.He stretched out his hand and slapped Wang Xiaosan twice, cursing loudly: "What are you? How dare you make me happy with you. Now that the deal is done, you have to pull people. If God comes out, he can't take care of my business. There is someone with the surname Xiang. How bold you are, how dare you stand up and stop him." He jumped in the courtyard and cursed, which woke up Xiang Zicheng, and when he listened carefully, his nameless karma immediately raged.Rubbing his eyes, he rushed to the courtyard with bare arms and shouted loudly: "Which one is the trafficker? Come here quickly, the master has something to ask him." Feng Qi was scolding happily when he suddenly saw a young man running out and asking Who is the trafficker.He guessed that this person must be that surnamed Xiang, so he was not polite, and shouted with his chest: "Master is Feng Qi, a human trafficker. Who are you, an ignorant child, who dare to break ground on Tai Sui?" Zicheng is alive. In his twenties and thirties, where has he heard of someone calling himself a master in front of his eyes?This is really the first time.No matter how angry he was, he didn't reply, he rushed forward, punched Feng Qi, and kicked Feng Qi more than ten feet away, like falling down a wall.Feng Qi was still unconvinced after the fall, got up and rushed over like a hungry tiger.Zicheng had been on guard for a long time, he dodged his body, taking advantage of his force to pounce forward, pushed hard, and immediately fell forward again.This time he was not allowed to get up, and kicked several times, making Feng Qishan scream strangely.At this time, a coachman and a partner came with him, and they all rushed over to beat Zicheng.Zicheng didn't pay attention to them, and with three moves, they were all defeated.But Feng Qi took advantage of this opportunity and ran away so far that he couldn't even see his shadow.Zicheng cursed at the two people: "You bastards! The master thinks you are not worth a beating, so let you go. If you come again, you will be killed." The two got up and ran away.Zicheng stood proudly in the courtyard, but Wang Xiaosan was terrified, and said to Zicheng tremblingly: "My young master, you have caused a catastrophe. Feng Qi is a famous bandit. How could he be beaten by you in vain? When I go back this time, I will definitely invite many people to come and take revenge. Although the young master knows martial arts, he is afraid that he will be outnumbered. Let me advise you, quickly dodge and avoid this immediate loss." Thank you Dafu kept urging him to leave quickly to avoid being surrounded by bandits.Xiang Zicheng smiled and said, "Forgive how many people he has, I will knock them all down with a wooden stick." Xie Dafu said anxiously: "My young master, you can't be so willful. If there is some danger, how can this old slave be treated like this?" Get up?" Zicheng said, "Go away quickly, I don't do your business." Then he went back to the room, took out a white wax pole, seven feet long, held it in his hand, and shouted: "They have thousands of troops. I'm not afraid of the horse." As he was speaking, he suddenly heard the noise of people outside, shouting together.Wang Xiaosan and Xie Dafu were so frightened that they hid in the house and did not dare to come out.I saw Feng Qi in the head, holding a long stick, followed by more than 20 people, each with a stick in his hand, some long and some short, all rushed in together.Shouting in his mouth, the surname Xiang will come out and die soon.Zicheng stood in the courtyard, motionless.Fortunately, this shop yard is very spacious, enough to hold two or three hundred people.Everyone took sticks and went straight to Zicheng.Zicheng took his time and fought with them.In a blink of an eye, four or five were knocked down by him, and the rest were still surrounded.Zicheng cheered up and defeated seventeen or eight of them with one person.Two or three of them were very good with the stick, almost hitting Zicheng several times.At this moment Zicheng didn't dare to underestimate the enemy anymore, he used all his strength, he could only parry but not fight back, he was so tired that he was sweating all over, he was about to suffer a loss. At this critical time, suddenly a person jumped out from the east wing room, with bare hands, he jumped into the crowd.He grabbed Feng Qi's stick and kicked him far away.Shouted: "You rely on the strength of your numbers to bully only one person. When you meet me today, you will know how powerful you are." After speaking, he danced the wooden stick like a windmill, and within a short time, he knocked him down seven or eight times. indivual.Later, there were only three who were good at wielding sticks, Tong Xiang and Cao Ji, who fought endlessly.Cao Huchen yelled and used a chain stick in one hand. By surprise, the stick knocked over two of them.That one was timid in his heart, and he was also defeated by Xiang Zicheng.Then stop and look closely, a total of thirteen were knocked over, and the rest all escaped.Zicheng thanked Huchen again and again, and said: "Thanks to this elder brother, he drew his sword to help him when he saw the road was rough, otherwise, I would have suffered a lot." Then he called the shop assistant, and quickly tied the thirteen people with hemp rope, ready to send them to the store. The Yamen of Hua County is punished as a bandit.How could Wang Xiaosan dare to be negligent, tied up the thirteen people, took the piece of Xiangzi City, and pulled it in a cart, all the way to the Yamen of Hua County.The county magistrate called up to inquire and found out that Master Xiang Si sent someone to send it.These people dared to surround Young Master Xiang Si and beat him up, how could the county magistrate bear it.On the one hand, thirteen people were handcuffed and fettered and sent to prison; on the other hand, they prepared a good banquet and sent messengers to the shop to shock the fourth young master Xiang.Zicheng invited Cao Huchen over to have a drink together and pay attention to boxing and stick techniques.The more they talked, the more speculative they became. Zicheng asked him whether the grain trafficking was his own business or helping others.Hu Chen sighed, saying that they were sent by the Tianjin Grain Store, and they only made a few pennies a month.Zicheng said: "Since you are helping people, why not help me? You quit the grain store business and live in my house every month. I will give you six taels of silver pocket money every month. Wherever I go, you can follow me. , isn't it better than selling grain?" Hu Chen was very happy.When he returned to Tianjin, he quit his business and went to Xiangzhai to be a nursing home.Zicheng treated him very favorably, and later he was trained in Xiaozhan, so he was appointed as a military patrol and promoted to battalion commander.In less than a few years, everything went smoothly, and the third town association has been achieved.This is the past history of the two of them.This time before the banquet, Xiang Zicheng expressed his opinion and asked everyone how many talented and famous people there are.When everyone heard this, some were surprised, some laughed secretly, and some frowned and looked at him trying to stop him.Zicheng was not in a hurry, and He Yan said to Huchen: "Your words, my brother, are too fierce. It is true that ignorance is hateful for the relatives and nobles of the Manchu Qing Dynasty. , How can you suddenly have a different ambition. What's more, let's accept the emperor's favor in the next life, the ancestors and uncles, who came to the frontier, were listed in the biographies of famous ministers, how dare you have any unreasonable thoughts. Now we have to discuss how to revitalize Strategize the principles of the court, reduce disasters and chaos, so that the overall situation will not be reduced to corruption, and the people of the whole country will not be robbed by fire, fire, swords and soldiers. Brothers, if you have any great opinions, please express them yourself, but you must not go beyond the scope." Zicheng dismissed Hu Chen's words, and this time, no one in the warrior team spoke.In the literati class, Ruan Zhongshu stood up and said, "What Gong Bao just said is indeed on point. According to Wan Sheng's opinion, if you want to revitalize the government, you must first unify the power of affairs. Now the imperial court only appoints Gong Bao as the governor of the two lakes. However, how can the overall situation be sorted out by entrusting each other with one corner of the matter. Even if the Kung Pao has great talents and can succeed immediately and wipe out the revolutionary party, the power of the central government will still be in the hands of relatives and nobles in the future. , it is hard to guarantee that there will be no more anti-Han mentality. At that time, it is only necessary to issue a decree, or still order Gong Bao to return to his hometown, or transfer him to Beijing, and take the position of Xian Cao. The foundation is established, the mistake is not to appoint Gong Bao as the prime minister of the cabinet, and he must not come out of the mountain." When Ruan Zhongshu said this, all the people present clapped their hands unconsciously, and even Xiang Zicheng nodded repeatedly.Ruan Zhongshu went on to say: "Not only is the prime minister of the cabinet, but also the palace guard, and the cabinet system must be adopted. Besides the prime minister, there is no need to set up an assistant minister, and only one person is in charge. In the future, there will be little hindrance." Xiang Zi Cheng didn't wait for him to finish, then he replied: "Brother Ruan's high opinion can be said to hit the nail on the head. I'm afraid that brother alone may not be able to take on this important task. The most important thing is that brothers should help each other. And there is another problem , I have to worry about it. The imperial court is usually very defensive towards me, and will do everything. How dare he give me the power at this time, it will take a lot of trouble." Before he could finish speaking, Cao Yulin suddenly stood up when he saw the team of new characters, and replied, "Gongbao has nothing to worry about about these two matters. Everyone should help and fulfill their own responsibilities. As long as Gongbao thinks about it, a certain person is good at a certain thing." To issue a list, ask the imperial court to appoint them, and then assign them to various ministries as state servants to assist the prime minister. This is the way that the responsible cabinet should take. In all countries in the East and West, this is not the case, and it cannot be regarded as authoritarian. As for The imperial court is jealous of the virtuous and capable, and refuses to grant great power to someone, just as the palace guards ordered. But according to the students, the nature of this group of relatives is to fight for benefits and avoid harm. At this time, they wish there was a Those who take full responsibility should act as shields for them. Whether they have power or not is a trivial matter at the moment. Even though Gongbao is inconvenient to ask for it, but with a brief gesture, the civil and military subordinates of that day will naturally speak together, and there is no need to worry about the regent's disapproval." When Cao Yulin said this, in the military team, some of the town commanders and association commanders stood up and said loudly: "If you don't want to be the emperor, just be a cabinet minister, if he doesn't agree, I'll go back to Beijing immediately. Looking at such relatives and nobles, how can you deal with us, do you still need to ask for it?" Xiang Zicheng was very happy to see everyone supporting him like this.He laughed and said: "It's rare that you brothers don't give up and prepare everything for your brothers. When you come to Beijing in the future, you must share the wealth and honor. Now let's discuss the procedures and what must be done to achieve the goal quickly. Decide on a perfect and perfect method early, and save time, so that the people of all provinces will always be in dire straits." At this time, Zhao Bingheng stood up and replied slowly: "It's not very difficult to go through the formalities. According to Bingheng's opinion, it is best to use scaring tactics for this group of relatives and nobles. As long as you scare him away, keep them in a hundred and one hundred ways." Shun. Didn’t it just be agreed that Gong Bao should be the prime minister of the cabinet? Now all that is needed is for Gong Bao to write a letter describing how powerful the Revolutionary Party is and how critical the situation in Hubei is. Unless all soldiers from the whole country are deployed to serve the king, the crisis cannot be turned into safety. The central government must Only those who can take full responsibility, have full confidence in mobilizing troops and raising salaries, and will never miss the military plane outside, dare to go out to take on the mission. Otherwise, they would rather bear the charge of resisting the order than never come out. Gongbao only needs to write Such a letter was handed over to Bingheng and Jixiang to bring back to Beijing, and we presented it to the old Enwang face to face, and then frightened him with a few words, so that he would not dare to become the cabinet premier again, so we naturally recommended Gongbao to take on this important task. A paper book can be exchanged for a prime minister, what does Gong Bao think?" When Bingheng said this, everyone applauded again.Zicheng also believes that this plan is absolutely perfect.At this point in the discussion, there is a way to proceed.Only then did Zicheng call his family in, pour wine and serve food.After eating, everyone talked a few words about future plans, and then went back to their rooms to rest. Only Zhao Bingheng was invited by Xiang Gongbao to a secret room to have a late night talk.Zicheng specially made a pot of top-quality Junmei, put on a pair of the most exquisite smoking utensils, prepared two boxes of big Tugong ointment, and opened a barrel of "three-five" cigarettes, please Bingheng lie down and smoke.It turned out that Zhao Bingheng had no other hobbies in his life, only smoking for many years. Smoking is life, and life is smoking, and he would not take a sip unless it was a good Da Tu Gong ointment.When he was a servant of the patrol department, he resigned because of the investigation of his cigarette addiction. He would rather sacrifice a second-rank official than his smoking gun.In addition, he has no love for women, money, and all things that are fun.Xiang Zicheng was well aware of his problem, so he specially prepared smoking equipment and ointment for him.Since he came to Xiangzhai, he has not smoked for a day. Although he has taken a few pills, how can he resist his addiction.So after dinner, I was listless and tearful.Zicheng invited him to the secret room. There were already two cigarette boys who burned and pretended for him.At this time, he was also unceremonious, lying on the bed, sucking heavily.After taking a breath, the gun was handed over again, and it was replaced again and again.In the blink of an eye, I have already smoked twelve big puffs, and each puff is worth four to five cents of smoke.After these twelve puffs, he waved his hand slightly towards the smoker boy.烟童会意，便停手不烧，却拿起茶壶来，斟了一杯浓茶，双手捧过去。秉衡只就他手中一饮而尽，然后依旧躺下闭着两眼似睡非睡的，在那里养神。子城吩咐两个烟童，暂且出去，呼唤再进来。自己一个人，在屋中陪着秉衡对面躺下，许久工夫，并不敢惊动他。以项子城的身份，能这样虚心下气，就可知道赵秉衡的才能识见，够个什么程度了。彼此对躺了好久工夫，秉衡忽然睁开两眼，倏忽立起身来，说道：“罪过罪过，我怎么在宫保面前，竟这样放肆起来。”子城早斟了一杯浓茶，双手递过去，笑道：“你再喝这一杯，自然就清醒了。”秉衡一壁接茶，一壁说：“怎敢劳宫保替我斟茶，真要折寿死了。”子城道：“你我是知己的老朋友，何必这样客气。”秉衡将茶一气喝干，又另拿了一只杯要回敬子城。子城忙拦住道：“算了吧，我们谈正事要紧，不用这些客套了。”秉衡听他这样说，便也依实将茶杯放下，然后对面同子城坐定，低声问道：“今天晚间的会议，宫保以为如何？”子城叹了一口气道：“大势所趋，也只好如此。不过席间的只是大纲，至于详细节目，还得老弟仔细斟酌，所以将你约至密室。咱二人今夜所谈的，便好比隆中定策，这是不能再叫第三人知道的。你不要看我幕中有这许多人，其实白面书生居多。略好的如唐绍怡、阮中书等，还不免有拘执，不能往远大处看。如今要决大疑，定大策，不是这干人所能胜任的。老弟的见识，确是张良、邓禹一流人物，因此愚兄不约别人，单单约你一位。咱们为竟夜之谈，要把前途大计，规定出一种有条理有方式的节略，好依此进行。你要知道，这是咱们弟兄一生荣辱关头，此时，若不筹策万全，将来仍不免自贻伊戚。尚望老弟剖肝沥胆，示我南针，他日患难共当，富贵同享，有渝此盟，神灵不佑。”子城说到这里，秉衡忙拦道：“太言重了，秉衡伺候宫保多年，彼此知无不言，言无不尽，难道还有什么信不及的？如今既承宫保殷殷下问，秉衡有什么计策，暂且先不说出，倒是要先请示宫保一件事，必须宫保有正式答复，秉衡方能决定我的策划，是否适用。”子城一听，心说这人真厉害啊，他倒先要问我。随答道：“老弟有什么怀疑之处，自请直说，愚兄能瞒别人，也决不能瞒你。”秉衡到此，方低声问道：“不知宫保对于朝廷，是忠于一姓，还是志在自取？是要为曾胡左李，还是要学魏晋六朝？请宫保斩钉截铁地答复我一句，然后秉衡才能决定策略。”项子城被他这一问，立时面上一红，现出一股肃杀之气来。转眼又恢复原状，微微笑道：“老弟你要知道，愚兄虽做满清的官，却志在兴复汉族，岂能长为一家一姓做奴才？假如我处在曾文正的地位，早已自取之了，这是丝毫不游移的，也决不假惺惺去骗人。你有何壮猷伟略，自请直陈，更用不着畏首畏尾了。”秉衡听他这样答复，不觉伸出大拇指来，啧啧赞道：“真不愧雄才大略，开国之君，秉衡也算事得其主了。”子城忙拦他道：“你快不要说这些话，咱们只论眼前，不论他日，这不过是我的空想。除去你，再不能对第二人说，你从此万不可论什么君臣上下。但就目前的时势，替我开出一条道路来，是最要紧的。咱们自有了道路可走，将来不愁没有走不到的那一天，要是老早地露出形迹来，反倒诸多不便。”秉衡道：“宫保所论甚是，我也是这样想。似此绝大问题，不止关系个人，而且关系国家，总须暂守秘密，法不传六耳才好。”子城道：“你的为人，我是信得及的，要不然，这些话对兄弟妻子全不能谈，怎能同你商量呢？你既问到这种地方，料必是胸有成竹，就请快快地说，不必再游移了。” 秉衡见他一步紧似一步地追问，自己便做出从容不迫的神气来。燃着火柴吸了一支烟卷才慢慢地说道：“秉衡要请示宫保，你是打算智取，还是打算力取；是要急进，或是要缓进呢？”子城低头想了想，答道：“但能智取，总是不用强力才好。就是多缓几天也无妨，因为太急了，要露痕迹，缓缓地来，便可遮饰全国的耳目。这不过是我的打算，至于如何用智，如何用力，如何急进，如何缓进，还要请你别嫌麻烦，详细地说一说才好。”秉衡点点头，说：“我有三条计策，两条是守旧，一条是维新，分上中下三等，不知宫保要想采哪一条？”子城道：“你先说上策，是怎么样进行。”秉衡道：“上策得少用武力。我们北洋六镇，是全国的劲旅，所有师旅长，以及下级军官，全是宫保的虔诚心腹，只要宫保略一示意，他们赴汤蹈火，也是挺身前往，决不游移的。如今宫保晋京，只需将六镇人马分驻于京畿一带，待时机成熟，仿照陈桥兵变、黄袍加身的故事，照样扮演一回，保管兵不血刃，便可稳取江山。他们满清人，并无可恃的兵力，仅仅有一师禁卫军，兵权还在印长、冯国华手中，这二人对于宫保，是赤胆忠心，决无二志的。何况他们的兵，现在又调往汉阳，京城空虚，正好就此下手，一鼓成功，免去将来再有变化。这便是第一条上策。虽然急促生硬一点，可是一劳永逸，省了许多周折，不知宫保能否采纳？”子城听罢，略略地沉吟了一刻，笑道：“你这第一步，老辣至极，要论对于满清，也并不为过。只可惜浅露一点，将来历史上，仍免不了篡夺之名。况且各省督抚，效忠满清的尚有很多，如此硬作，他们不肯甘心，还须以武力解决。再者东西各国，仓促间如不肯承认，岂不又多添了一种麻烦。据我想，这上策还须从长计议。你再将中策说给我听听吧。”秉衡道：“在宫保原有此一虑，不过据我想，全都好办，并没有什么阻碍。但是宫保既不以为然，咱们再研究第二策。第二策，宫保在眼前，得要替满清大大地出一番力，先把武汉革命，完全平灭下去。然后自居为议政大臣，所有朝中政权，尽操纵于宫保一人之手。就连各省督抚，以及北京文武官吏，也一律由宫保简放自己的近人。从此以后，宫保便实行那挟天子以令诸侯的故事，剑履上殿，入朝不趋，处处以魏武为法。将来时机成熟，自然有人上表劝进。宫保到那时，便应天顺人，早正大位，料想满清孤儿寡妇，有何能为。宫保存心仁厚，可以封王封公，留其一命。若为永绝后患，便略施辣手也无妨。这条计策，虽然迟缓一点，却比较地稳当些，不知宫保尊意如何？”子城鼓掌道：“这条计策，果然又巧又稳，较比第一策胜强十倍。”秉衡道：“既然这样，宫保便可照第二策进行。 ”子城轻轻地摇头道：“还有商量余地。我的性情向来不愿抄袭前人的文章。照你这样第二妙计，我岂不成了须眉华肖的曹孟德了吗？如果没有别的路可走，自然亦得照样地模仿一回，倘然尚有别的主意，我们不妨再加细研究。 ”秉衡见子城对于中策也不赞成，未免有点踌躇起来，低着头半晌不语。子城催道：“你不要错会了意，以为我没有魄力，不敢照你的计划进行。因为我生性好奇，凡中国历史上的人物，他们已经做过的，我总不乐意同他去学，最好是效法外国的大人物，将来在历史上，也可以独开生面。 ”这几句话触动了秉衡的灵机，不觉跳起来鼓掌笑道：“有了有了，如此这般，与我那第三策也恰相吻合。目前武汉革命，听说孙文已经从美国回来了。他所标的旗帜，是要改为共和民国，废去皇帝名称，改为大总统，推倒专制世袭，改为人民选举。这在我们中国历史上，总算得别开生面。宫保不愿抄袭前人的文章，何不顺水推舟，就实行改起民国来。那第一任的中华大总统，还能跑出你的手吗？既然做了大总统，就是变相的皇帝万岁。我们既得其实，何必再贪其名。将来宫保在民国历史上，做了第一任的大总统，便与美国的华盛顿一般无二，岂不遂了宫保效法外国伟人的志愿。他日如果有了机会，同外国开一次战，如能振起国威，恢复国权，将外人打败了，那时便可再进一步，学一学法国的拿破仑，将皇冠加在头上，谁敢不从。宫保请想，这条计策，可以如你的心愿吗？ ”秉衡说到这里，子城早欢喜得跳起来，拍着巴掌赞道：“妙哉！妙哉！我决定依着这条道路进行。就算是决定了，不必再游移了。你再把怎样进行的次序，详细研究一回，咱们从明天起，便好实地着手。趁着目前的机会，事半功倍，免得他人先我着鞭。 " 秉衡道：“宫保且不要忙，等我再吸几口烟，从容研究，到明天还愁没有妥善的法子吗？”子城道：“好好。”随又将烟童唤进来，替秉衡开烟。他躺下吸了八口烟，喝了一杯茶。子城又吩咐传知厨房，预备宵夜点心。原来他这厨房，夜间也有人值班，无论想吃什么，传下话去，等不到五分钟便能端上来。何况目前住着许多贵客，厨房的人更加多了。烟童传下话去，不大工夫，伺候开饭的小厮先放好了筷箸，紧跟着上四个小碟极精致的冷荤，新开的一瓶老牌斧头白兰地。子城让秉衡先坐下喝酒，自己亲手替他斟了一杯，说：“你尝一尝，这是我家里存放五六年的老酒，比市上卖的滋味不同。”秉衡喝了一口，果然觉着格外沉重。少时小厮又上了四小碟炒菜。秉衡笑道：“我们吃点心，何必要这许多菜。”子城道：“这是照例的，他们从不懂变通。”说着又上来四盘点心，两甜两咸。秉衡好吃甜，恰合了他的口味，吃了很不少，方才住手。小厮将漱口水递上来，他漱过口，便躺下吸烟，也顾不得净面擦手。小厮将酒菜撤下去，子城吩咐不叫不许进来。屋中又剩了他两个人。秉衡只吸了两大口，便停住不吸，坐起来同子城研究进行方法。秉衡道：“目前的局势，只有四个字的秘诀，只要本着这四个字做去，保管不用费力，便可稳坐收功。以宫保的雄才大略，也无须再说那些详细节目，将来随机应变，本着这四个字去做，秉衡敢断定攸往咸宜，无不如意，那第一任大总统，决不会落到别人手中，这是敢具结的。”子城笑道：“照你这样说，真成了四字真言了。你如今且不要忙着说，咱们两个人俱各写在掌中，倒看一看是同意不同意。”秉衡道：“好好，就是这样。”二人一同到书案前，子城取过了一管朱笔，秉衡拿了一支墨笔，全都转过脸去，不大工夫，便写好了。彼此在灯光下，对伸出手来一照，不觉哈哈大笑。子城道：“可称是英雄所见，大略相同了。”秉衡道：“我的主意当然瞒不过宫保去，但是其中还有研究的余地。”原来两人掌心所写的，秉衡是“两利俱存”，子城却是“两面威吓”。大致看去仿佛也差不多，然而其中的性质，却又不同，所以秉衡说有研究余地。因为威吓，是一种临时的手段，两利俱存，却是一种固定的政策。秉衡道：“威吓诚然是得用的，但空空威吓，还不能使他们心服。最要紧的，是得给革命党一个下马威，先打他一个落花流水，然后再停止进攻。在清室方面，先给他一个欢喜，等到了时机，却给他一场意想不到的惊恐。到那时，进退伸缩，自然无不如意。要言不烦，就是用兵力威吓民党，再拿民党来威吓清室，保管叫他两方俯首帖耳，全都得听宫保自由处置。可是说真了，两面全得保全。倘然去了一面，只留一面，将来与宫保前途便要发生许多不利。必须两面全都存在，宫保的威严势力，便也可以永久存在，这便叫两利俱存。不知宫保以为何如？”子城连连点头说：“你的策略实在高明，而且稳妥。咱们就是这样决定了。这时天已交四更了，你再吸口烟，也该休息休息了，咱们明天午后再谈吧。”说罢起身告辞。又吩咐烟童好好伺候赵大人，他才回转卧室。 秉衡又吸了几口烟，便安然睡去。第二天午后一点，方才起床来，自有家人伺候一切。他吃罢点心，又吸过烟，方才出了这屋子，去寻大家闲谈。此时大家俱都吃过早饭，段吉祥一见便埋怨道：“赵大哥你真不对，怎么一个人藏起来，连影儿也看不见了？”唐绍怡在旁冷笑道：“他掉在云雾窟里了。”阮中书道：“美哉快哉，喷云吐雾。乐在其中矣，尚何暇顾及朋友哉？”秉衡笑道：“我有这点嗜好，倒有你们开心的了。”杨修笑吟吟地答道：“谁敢拿老先生开心，老先生圣眷优隆，高出王镇恶竟夜之谈，犹如严子陵以足抵腹，当日孔明如鱼得水，也不过如先生今夜这一片话。”咬文嚼字的，说得秉衡面上微微一红，其余新派的人，也帮着鼓掌大笑，只有几位老官僚，却沉默不发一言。杨志奇忙用旁的话岔开。后来这几位新进，全都不甚得志，就坏在杨修的几句话上。可见做官一道，也是很不容易的。 当日晚间，赵、段两人专车回京。果然这一吓真有效力，第二天，老恩王同拉同、余双仁辞职的奏折便递上去，并面恳摄政王准其辞职，保项子城继总理大臣之任。载沣此时，但求项子城肯来京，没有不能依从的事。便即日下了三道上谕：第一道是，恩亲王奕劻、拉同、余双仁，坚请辞去内阁总协理之职，以避贤路，情词恳挚，着均准其辞职，钦此；第二道是，内阁协理大臣一职，着即裁撤，钦此；第三道是，项子城着补授内阁总理大臣，即日来京陛见，毋再迟延，钦此。这三道旨意，同时颁布下来，北京全城的商民，欢声雷动，全说这一来国家可要好了，项宫保出山，保管马到成功，革命党绝不是他的对手。可见当时舆论，对于项子城的狂热。这也是因为满清无道，老恩王又招权纳贿，无所不为，人民久已抱着一种厌弃之心。项子城又借这时机下了一番鼓吹的功夫，所以能得人心归向。 Don't gossip.却说这旨意拍至彰德，项子城见了大喜，立刻召僚属商议何时起身。大家异口同音，俱赞成即日专车晋京。又拟了一封谢恩并报告起程的电报。另外一电，是保荐文武官僚，最要紧的，是荐段吉祥为两湖总督，并节制北洋六镇。这在清末是破天荒的举动。因为满清时代，文武界限很严，做武官的无论有多大才学，有多大功绩，要想改文职，是绝对做不到的。段吉祥以一镇统，竟保为总督，若非项子城的势力，如何能做得到？一切全布置好了，定于午后六点，从彰德专车晋京。所有府县各官，俱到车站欢迎，这是不消说的。项子城率领文武僚属，乘马车来至车站。他此时却是行装打扮，穿一件宝蓝宁绸团花夹袍，八团龙的黄马褂，内联升的青缎长筒靴子，头戴着呢官帽，一品宝石顶珠，双眼花翎，摇摇摆摆地步上花车。众随员如众星捧月一般，也都陆续上车。另外只带七八两房姨太太，还有几名丫鬟仆妇。府县官在站台恭送，项子城倒是很客气的，连连说：“请公祖父台早早回城，不敢劳驾了。”府县只有诺诺连声，那敢回句话。 在前清时代，官礼官规，是非常讲究的。自己本身无论做了多大官，对于祖籍本省的大小官，一律须尊以公祖父台之称。当日张文襄身为中堂，有一次回南皮祖籍省墓，离他住的村子还有一二里路，他便下了轿子，吩咐人马仆从，俱停在此间别动。他却换了一件粗布袍子，命他的公孙在前引路，祖孙二人慢慢地向前步行。才一进村，遇着一位拾粪老者，张中堂便止住脚步，同他攀谈，先问张中堂府可在这个村子里吗？他本来三十年不曾回家了，那乡里的人，哪里还认得他，何况他又穿着粗旧衣服，人家做梦也想不到他是中堂啊。老者听他问张府，便将粪筐放在地上，答道：“你打听张府做什么？莫不是想去打秋风借钱借粮。”张中堂道：“我们是从此路过，想要瞻仰瞻仰中堂府，并不是想借钱的。”老者道：“中堂府此时也不容易进去了。当年府中待同乡极好，凡借粮借钱的，有求必应，中堂在外边挣的钱，差不多全周济乡邻了。近十年以来，却大大变了宗旨，少爷同一班管家，终日专讲究置地买房，除此之外，别的事一概不问。有时旱涝不收，乡里的人想到他家赊几石粮，势比登天还难，就是勉强答应了，也得要加二加三的利钱。平常人休想进他门，唯独房地牙子，终日踢破了门槛。你这老头儿，如果要看看他的府，最好假充地牙子，就说邻村有一块地，要想出售，特派你来接洽，不但能进他的门府，碰巧了还有赏饭吃呢。”中堂听了这一套话，早已气得直翻白眼。偏巧这时候又来了一位倒霉的四衙，是南皮县新升来的典史，当日因为有一桩盗案，县官特派他代理本人去踏勘。这典史姓薛名叫鹿鸣，是一个书吏出身，加捐典史，补了南皮县的缺，初次做官十分高兴。因为是县官委派，便借用县署的轿子，也是前顶马，后跟马，捕班皂隶带了一大群，好像一窝蜂似的，便直奔张家庄来，从中堂眼前经过。此时中堂同拾粪的老人，恰恰站在大道上，挡住了他的行旌。差役便大声吆喝：“太爷来了，还不快快闪路！”拾粪的老人，吓得提起粪筐来，三脚两步躲在道旁一株树底下。张中堂不但不动，反倒坐下了。差役还认他是耳聋，又大声地吆喝：“走开走开！”又朝着张中堂的孙子发威，说：“你这小孩子，也这样不晓事。他走不动，你不会把他拉开吗？太爷的轿子已经到了。”此时典史的轿子，离中堂坐的地方，已经剩了几尺。中堂仰起头来说：“叫他绕两步走吧，难道总得走这条路吗？”此时薛典史如听话绕开，也就省得碰钉子了。偏偏他不识趣，还拿中堂当一个乡里老农。听他说叫绕开走，不觉勃然大怒，立刻吩咐停住轿子。轿子停了，喝令衙役快把老人传过来问话。张中堂不等他传，便自己立起身来，走到典史的轿子前边，拱一拱手，笑问道：“你就是南皮县的父母官吗？”薛典史本是书吏出身，非常乖觉。见老人问的话很奇特，又细细打量老人的面目精神，不像是个务农的人，更觉有些诧异。随答道：“我是南皮县的典史。”中堂笑道：“我还认着是老父台呢！原来是小父台。”典史喝道：“胡说！父台还有什么大小的分别！你这老头子，见了本官，也不下跪，还要信口胡说。若不看你年老份上，就该掌嘴。”中堂笑道：“我这老头子，可着中国只能跪一个人，再寻不出第二个来了。不像你们做小父台的，终日请安、磕头，见了官儿就得下跪。”薛典史听他的话越出奇，忙追问道：“你到底姓什么，叫什么，快快地实说。”中堂只拈着胡子，微微一笑，说：“你问我吗？东阁大学士、两湖总督部堂兼陆军部尚书、都察院都御史衔，张之洞，那就是我。”薛典史一听，立刻吓得矮下半截去，跪在地上，只是磕头，说：“卑职瞎了眼睛，冒犯老中堂虎威，罪该万死！求中堂只拿卑职看作一个无知的猫狗，您愿意踢愿意打，卑职甘心乐受。只求您保全卑职这个芝麻粒儿的功名吧。”中堂哈哈大笑，说：“岂敢岂敢，治晚怎敢踢打父台。再说我也没有那闲工夫啊！你的功名，自管放心，我决不因此小事，记恨于你。不过你的威严太大了，我们这乡里草民，哪里见过，怕不被你吓坏了。以后请你稍微收敛一点才好。”薛典史诚惶诚恐，叩谢了中堂。中堂叫他起来，他也不敢再坐轿了，再三请中堂坐轿回府。中堂说坐不惯，你自管坐上，办你的公事去吧，我这里也用不着你伺候。薛典史羞惭满面，拜别中堂，随着差役步行去了。张中堂回到他的宅第，便大发雷霆，将子侄管家等，叫至面前，问他们因为什么刻薄乡里，得罪邻居，定要以家法从事。后来多亏了孙少爷，把拾粪的老者硬拉了来，替大家讲情，才算息了这一回事。中堂又杀猪宰羊，大请其客。所有本村的男女老幼，一概都请来吃酒。拣那穷苦的，又周济银钱粮米。几天的工夫，一乡之人，莫不歌功颂德。花了有限的钱，便把名誉恢复过来了。足见彼