Chapter 50 The forty-seventh chapter: Maid Entrusts Qing Shangshu and Kills Actor

Li Tianhong is the current commander-in-chief and the commander of the thirteen towns, but because he offended Xiangcheng and Zhang Bao, and the rebellion that came from outside, he lost both fame and fame at once. How could he not feel sad!Zhang, Xun, and Jiang were promoted by him on weekdays, and they were also like-minded, and they were related to each other, so naturally they couldn't just ignore them.Xun and Jiang wished they could immediately unite the soldiers of Thirteen Towns and launch a revolution.It was Zhang Xingwen, who was mature and stable, and said: "This is absolutely impossible: the army stationed in the first provincial city is not limited to the thirteenth town. When we make trouble, other troops will besiege from all directions. How can we resist the enemy with a single town?" Can it survive? Besides, there is no certainty whether the officers in this town are like-minded with us. We didn’t mobilize them in advance. Life is nothing; the army is in Hubei, and the honor and honor for several years will not be paid for. So this matter must be extra cautious." Tianhong nodded in praise, saying that brother Zhang really thoughtful.But right now I am a person who has lowered my tone. What kind of attitude is appropriate? This is an important question.You three, you have to plan for me.Xun Wen thought for a while, and said that instead of being angry with villains, it would be better to simply resign.Jiang Zanwen said: "I really have to resign, so as not to suffer such idleness." Zhang Xingwen said nothing, just shook his head.Tianhong said: "I also want to resign, brother Zhang, what do you think?" Other ambitions, this post is absolutely unacceptable." Tianhong said: "If you want to live in the darkness in front of you, the Manchu Qing court is so bewildered, what's the point of being an official? But this town has received Zhuang Zhongtang's kindness , all the time, always thinking about saving the people from suffering, and doing a vigorous career, so as to live up to his old man and live his life in vain. If you really want to resign and go back to seclusion, you will inevitably rot with the grass and trees in this life, and you can still have a bright future Hope? Brother Zhang, do you think what I said is correct?" Xingwen nodded and said: "The military sect embraces such a great ambition, and if we resign, we must never mention it again. If we resign, won't we be falling for them? Plan? But if you don’t resign, you must have a way to deal with it: first, you must keep the military power of the Thirteenth Town, and never let it fall into the hands of others; second, you must make Xiangcheng and Zhang Bao no longer suspicious of the army. , and then we can spare time to prepare everything. It’s best like this.” He whispered in Tianhong’s ear and gave him a secret plan, saying that although this is temporarily condescending to the military, but the man can bend and stretch, in the future we will always have The day of exhaling and raising eyebrows.Tianhong said: "It's nothing to condescend to me. Shouldn't the subordinates treat their superiors like this? I'm afraid I won't be able to make up so much money for a while." Xingwen said, "Don't worry, the humble three I can get half of it for the military generation, and I can pay it tomorrow." Tianhong was overjoyed and said, "That's great! But I always feel uneasy when I call you three broken banknotes." The three of them said together that this is nothing , but I hope that great things will be accomplished in the future. The military will not forget those who are in the same boat, and we will have hope.Tianhong said: "That's natural. If there is any progress in this town in the future, it will be shared with the three brothers." After that, they left.Tian Hong hurriedly changed into an armed battle skirt, put on a knife, took Mu En's manuscript, and went to the governor's office to meet Zhang Bao.

At this moment, Zhang Bao was talking with Mrs. Zhuang at home, explaining how Li Tianhong was demoted by the court, and now he is considered one of our subordinates, so sooner or later he must express his usual grievances.Mrs. Zhuang said: "You are too small. Now that the imperial court has vented our anger for us, why bother to find fault with him? As the saying goes: People are eager to rebel, dogs are eager to jump over the wall. Don't underestimate Tianhong. Combining military kindness and power, you are much smarter than you. You must make him look bad, and his subordinates will come out to deal with you, but you can't guard against it. According to my idea, you will treat him in the future. Show a little trace, this is the most important thing. Don't take my words as a deaf ear!" Zhang Bao respectfully, was listening to his wife's lesson, and suddenly saw his family member Feng Sheng, took a notebook, and said back to Li Shisanzhen See you, my lord.Mrs. Zhuang took the notebook and looked at it. Seeing that there were only five small characters "Mu En Li Tianhong" written on it, she smiled at Zhang Bao and said, "What am I talking about? You used to be the governor. I used to put down the word Mu En, but it was just a sign. Now he is so humble, even though it was his will to frighten him, after all, there is a grudge in his heart. You go out quickly, make a good deal of it, don't let you go That boss's stinking airs." Zhang Bao repeatedly told Feng Sheng to ask Mr. Li to sit in the study, and I'll go out to meet him right away.After finishing speaking, he changed into the palace clothes, and then came out to meet guests.When they met, Tianhong hurriedly knelt down to congratulate him.While Zhang Bao supported him, he also knelt down to make amends.He got up and took Tianhong's hand, saying that my brother was so polite, it made Brother Yu feel ashamed, so there is nothing to celebrate.As far as I think, it's just my brother's grievances.Tianhong said: "What did the adults say? With Mu En's qualifications and knowledge, I couldn't bring a whole town here. Now I am very lucky to lower my tone. In the future, no matter what happens, I will have an adult to advise me. This is the perfect way for Mu En." , Mu En can only be grateful, how can there be any reason to feel wronged?" Zhang Bao said: "My brother, don't be so serious, Brother Yu is too busy with his own affairs, how can he have the time to take care of the thirteen towns. From now on, I will be the master. Brother Yu will never ask." Tian Hong said a few more words of humility before leaving.This high hat was worn on Zhang Bao's head, which made him embarrassed to take over the affairs of Shisan Town.This is the wonderful use of Zhang Xingwen.

The next day, he pooled another 10,000 yuan and asked Guo Erli to take it in as a tribute to Xiangcheng.An additional two thousand two thousand was given away.Xiangcheng also felt that it was a bit embarrassing. Rao participated in the family, but instead sent money to manage it. His conscience always felt a little bit wrong.He had no choice but to call Tianhong up, and comforted him face to face: "This is all Zhang Junmen's trouble with you, and there is nothing we can do about it. As soon as I have the opportunity sooner or later, I will definitely ask for a reply. Although the tone is lowered now, the thirteen towns can be temporarily transferred. Change it to Mixed Formation Association, your name is Xietong, but you are actually Zhentong, and you don’t have to be restrained by Zhang Bao. After a few days, I will find a way for you.” Tianhong thanked you before leaving.Xiangcheng said to him again: "Wait a minute, there is an errand that I have to send you to do now. In three to five days, Rui Shilang, who supervises the Guangdong-Hanchuan Railway, will come to the provincial capital. He is your old boss." , I will entrust you with all the work of setting up the mansion and preparing vehicles and boats. I heard that you have a very good relationship with him. He was the governor of Hubei that day, and he disliked Zhang Bao the most, so he told Zhang Bao yesterday that he dared not take up the job. , I have to send you to work hard." Tianhong heard this, and asked in amazement: "Please tell the commander, is the Swiss servant Rui Fang?" Xiangcheng smiled and said: "It's not Rui Fang, who else is it? I said yesterday I just received the telegram that the Prince Regent sent him to supervise the operation of the Guangdong-Hanchuan Railway as a servant. He has already been trained and will arrive in Hubei in about three or two days, so you should hurry up and get ready to go."

Readers of novels must be surprised when they see this: Didn’t Rui Fang hide from Beijing’s limelight in his villa in Xiangzicheng, Zhangde Prefecture, Henan?Why did you come to Hubei again at this time?And when he was in Henan, he was a disused employee who had already been dismissed. How come he became a servant again at this time, supervising the railway?Don't be impatient, gentlemen, let me explain in detail. It turned out that Ruifang was in Henan, and since sending Song Ershun away, he has been honest and unrestrained, and has lived in the brother's house for more than two months.Xiang Zicheng gave him special treatment because he was sick and sympathetic to each other. He spent all day drinking and composing poems in the garden, but he was at ease.The Swiss side sometimes asks Xiangzicheng what is the situation in Beijing?Zicheng always smiled at him, saying that you still worry about what Beijing is doing?It was a mess anyway.Can these relatives and nobles still do good things?Seeing that Zicheng didn't like to talk about Beijing's political situation, the Rui side stopped asking.After eating that day, Zicheng held a hookah and said to Rui Fang with a smile: "Brother, you care about Beijing very much. Brother Yu has nothing to talk about, so he never said a word. Now I want to congratulate you When Rui Fang heard this, he was stunned and asked hurriedly, "Fourth brother, I don't understand a word of what you said. What is there to celebrate? Please tell me so solemnly." Zicheng said : "You didn't know it before! To tell you the truth, your opponent, Minister of the Ministry of Justice, Tingjie, died three days ago. Of course, your case will not be mentioned. Isn't this gratifying?" Rui Fang suddenly realized, clapped his hands unconsciously, and said, "You deserve it! God is so discerning. I think he still has the ability to stir up trouble and harm people."

Xiang Zicheng said: "You don't know why he died. If you knew, you would double your vows! As the saying goes, those who harm others will end up harming themselves. He only took advantage of other people's faults all his life, but he didn't know until today , but his own short story was seized by others." Rui Fang hurriedly asked what was going on.Zicheng said: "You should have known about Yi Airen's case two years ago!" Rui Fang said: "I know this matter in the most detail: Originally, the crime of Ai Ren was not enough to be dismissed and questioned. It was always because of his mouth." Too mean, making Wen Zehui's enemy for nothing. Never, never, he shouldn't use money to deal with old man Lu. That Lu Chuanlin is a famous stubborn old man, so he knows that he blindly does not accept bribes , but did not examine the truth of a person, but instead used it to gain fame and reputation, and in a daze, he found out all of Lao Yi's crimes. This gentleman, who has tasted the flavor of being behind bars for more than two years, you say you are wronged. What about it?" Zicheng said: "It turns out that there are still these shady scenes in the inside, but I don't know the truth, and I still think that love and benevolence deserve what they deserve?" Rui Fang said: "What deserves what is deserved? Let's talk about Suiyuan in the past few decades. Dutong, Airen is really the first promising talent. Not to mention others, Baotou and Guihua, all the wastelands he recruited to reclaim tens of thousands of hectares; as for planting trees and digging wells , all kinds of good governance are mostly initiated by him; as for how much money can be obtained from it, which high-ranking official is not like this, and he loves benevolence? The reason why Wen Zehui joined him was because of a joke. The first month of the year Wen Zehui was also present at the Dutong Yamen. While they were cheering and drinking in the front hall, Wen Zehui’s concubine came to the Dutong Yamen to pay New Year’s greetings in a sedan chair. The maid helped her in and was passing by the hall. Ai Ren asked Hui said: "Why is Mrs. Ru's wife here this year?" Ze Hui said: "Because the old wife is sick, I asked my concubine to come out to take care of it." After hearing this, Airen laughed and said, "In this way, the old man can practice overstepping." Haha! It’s a wonderful match made in heaven.” Seriously, it’s just a joke about literati’s frivolous words. However, the people on the left and right flattered, and they all laughed along with the applause. This smile made Old Wen laugh His face was flushed, and he left before even finishing the banquet. When he returned to his deputy capital office, he cursed for a while, saying that I would not avenge this life in this life, and vowed not to be a human. Falsely claiming to be the official land of the auctioneer, and participating viciously at a 10% discount. The Empress Dowager specially sent Lu Chuanlin to investigate. In the opinion of Lafayette, I wanted to adjust Lao Lu and ask him to take advantage of this matter to get some money and spend it. But this old man Mr. is very serious and has trouble with Ai Ren. Ai Ren entrusted someone to come here and promised 100,000 silver, but the old road not only refused, but also said that Ai Ren despised him, and made a double turn in his anger, and all investigations were carried out. Even in the court, he couldn't turn the corner. Now, I have to ask about Airen's dismissal and put it in the Ministry of Punishment. This is his past history. Fourth brother, you suddenly asked him, did he have any relationship with Tingjie?" Zicheng laughed and said: "Who says it's not! This old gentleman is bad at taking money. What you just said was the history of Lu Chuanlin in the first half of his movement. Now I will talk about the history of Tingjie in the second half of his movement."

It turned out that the person in charge of Tingjie's mansion was called Li Youcai.This Li Youcai has been the head of the class for many years, and he is indeed a veteran of it.Ever since he served Tingjie, he has been very pleased by the master, and has been a servant in Tingjie's residence for more than ten years.Because he is careful and timid, he has never made any mistakes.Tingjie had an old son this year, and his wife was in her forties. Naturally, she didn't have enough milk and food, so she asked to hire a wet nurse.It so happened that Li Youcai also had a son at this time, his wife Xiong Shi, who had plenty of milk.Seeing that it was a bargain, he went home to discuss with Mrs. Xiong, and wanted to recommend himself to Tingjie's mansion as a nanny.Mrs. Xiong was originally a very shrewd woman. On ordinary days, she would go to the court from time to time to say hello to the lady. Knowing that the court's family is very powerful and treats her servants very generously, she wanted to climb a high branch, not to mention Here comes another opportunity.Therefore, when Youcai discussed with her, she fully agreed.It's just that my son has to hire another nanny to take care of him.Fortunately, his family has money, so he doesn't care about it.Mrs. Xiong discussed with Youcai that if we don't make the mistake of moving the boat to the shore, we must ask him to ask for a ferry.The next day Xiong came to the court to pay his respects in the name of seeing his wife.At this time, my wife was worried that there would be no milk.It is said that he called several nannies, either because they were not good-looking, or the source of milk was not prosperous. After seven or eight nannies were changed, none of them were suitable, and the old man cried all day long.Mrs. Tong Tingjie, because he is old and has a son, loves him very much and is very anxious.At this time, Mrs. Xiong came, and his wife told her the reason.Xiong said: "Madam, why didn't you say it earlier? You made my brother suffer this wrong! I have plenty of ready-made milk here, come here! Please treat me to a full meal." After speaking, he took the child in his arms , put the nipple in his mouth.Strange to say, the child stopped crying immediately and fell asleep peacefully after feeding once.The wife was delighted and grateful, and immediately invited Tingjie to come, and told him that Xiong must be kept as a nurse in the mansion.Naturally Tingjie was very willing, but Xiong pretended to be embarrassed and said: "There is still a child of three months at home, what should I do?" Tingjie and his wife also helped her with the difficulty.Later, Mrs. Xiong said with emotion: "Our husband and wife have received so much kindness from the master and wife on weekdays, and we can't repay it even if we are smashed to pieces. How can we watch my brother starve now? Well, I will nurse my brother in my wife's house from now on; at home Let his father entrust someone to take care of the child, or feed him biscuits, or milk. It doesn’t matter what it is. Fortunately, the children of our poor families have rough bones and cheap meat, and they have their own food, and they can survive if they deal with it. I'll do my best to nurse my brother in the house." Tingjie and his wife were overjoyed to hear her say that, and I don't know how to thank her, so I feel relieved.He also promised to spend money to hire a wet nurse for her family to feed her own son; he also promised to let this old man recognize her as a foster mother, and to pay her ten taels of silver as a salary every month; The clothes are all special Congfeng.Since then, Mrs. Xiong has been a wet nurse in Ting's family.

This woman is no small matter.The purpose of her coming was not to seek a monthly payment of ten taels of silver, clothing, and so on.Her eyes had already seen that Ting Jie was the minister of the Ministry of Justice, and all important cases in the country were under his management.She wanted to use this channel to solicit business and go to court, it would definitely be a good deal.So he secretly sent her husband, Li Youcai, to solicit outside.Sure enough, there are many people who want to exercise favor, but they can't get in. Now that there are grandparents in the court house who can talk to the court officials, who doesn't rush to beg her to intercede?The Xiong family has handled it well, all transactions in cash, no credit or debt.She was originally a celebrity in the court house, and Tingjie was a stern person, don't pretend to be an upright official on the outside, in fact, she loves money like her life.Xiong took advantage of the situation, and no matter how important the favor was, she would whisper to Tingjie when she was a baby brother and negotiate the price.All the bribes were conveyed by her alone, and the matter was done without anyone noticing.Throughout the year, she does not know how many cases she has handled.I heard that in the past two years, she thought that she had earned more than a hundred thousand yuan, and she still kept trying to win him over because of her lack of heart.This woman was scheming and cunning, so she was nicknamed Tigress and Sairen Bear.Tingjie really obeyed her, relying on her like a left and right hand.

This time, they were full of crimes, and they suddenly wanted to make money for Yi Airen, who had been ignored for three years.Originally, no one dared to ask about this case. If the conviction was minor, some people might speak up;The Xiong family suddenly thought of this case, so he went to solicit it in person.It turned out that the Yi family had plenty of money, but was worried that they had no way out.Now someone promised that he could appeal to Ting Shangshu for favor. This is really what he wished for, and he promised 50,000 yuan.When Xiong heard this, it was really the God of Wealth coming to his door, so he went to discuss with Tingjie.Tingjie was very hesitant, saying that his case was unusual, as it had been recorded by Lu Zhongtang back then.All the previous officials knew that this matter was very difficult to handle, so no one dared to raise their mouths even though they knew it was a piece of fat.Why do you think of this now?Xiong said with a smile: "I don't know what the master is worried about. But the past and the present are different. Now that Lu Zhongtang is dead, who would be willing to be this opponent? Besides, Mrs. Yi has many connections. I heard that his family will prepare the Tonei Fan Sooner or later, Mr. Zhang will intercede in front of the empress dowager, and the empress dowager will order the prince regent to release him. Will the prince dare not obey the order? At that time, the master will not be in vain, and the money will be used by others. Let others do it. We, the court officials of the Ministry of Law, have done enough and tasteless? How about taking advantage of this time, the master agreed to come down and go to the Ministry, and said that the case should be closed early. There is no need to let him go at that time, just gently Convicted of a half-year imprisonment, and 30,000 silver in hand, the Yi family is still grateful, isn't this a double gain of fame and fortune?" A few words won Ting Jie's heart, and he secretly agreed.Just wait for Mr. Xiong to send the silver, and he will handle it in the same way.

Sure enough, within two days, Mrs. Xiong sent a check from the Sino-Russian Daosheng Bank, totaling 30,000 taels.Ting Jie signed the check, then went to the Ministry, discussed with the left and right ministers, and said: "Our Ministry of Law, since the name was changed, should have been vigorously refreshed, but after changing it for a year, the backlog of cases in the Ministry still remains. Quite a few, let’s take Yigu’s case as an example. It was originally Chen’s case two years ago. After four or five court officials, he has never been convicted of a crime. Putting him in prison, whether he is dead or alive, what is the deal? This matter. According to my brother's suggestion, the three of us worked hard tonight, brought him up, and questioned him carefully. If the case can be finalized, we can simply settle him, so as not to be dragged down for a long time. I don't know what you two think?" Xiyu, the servant on the left, and Zhang Renpu, the servant on the right, all strongly agreed, saying that the old man was really thoughtful, and the younger students were willing to accompany him.Seeing that the two of them agreed, Ting Jie did not go back to the house that day. After lighting the lamp, he issued an order to raise Yigu's case and have three joint trials, and asked the room team to prepare immediately.When the officials in the house squad saw the handwriting, they were all very surprised.They discussed secretly with each other, saying how strange it was to suddenly think of the proposal at this time after the case was filed in the past three years!Maybe the Prince Regent has any appointments?Immediately informed the jailer, and hurriedly prepared to mention Mrs. Yi for interrogation.

It turns out that although Yi Airen was imprisoned, he never suffered any crimes. In the prison, a quiet room was specially built for him; all the furnishings in the room were very particular. All kinds of calligraphy, painting and copybooks filled the whole room; because Yi Airen was a famous person among the bannermen and was good at writing, she sat in prison and still read and wrote as a pastime; another old man in his fifties, Serving him in prison, even though he is in prison, is much more comfortable than being an official.People in his family would go to prison every day to visit him. He already knew all about Tingjie's situation, and he expected to propose a retrial within three to five days.However, at that time, there was no rule in Beijing to invite a lawyer to appear in court. No matter what the case was, you had to come forward to answer it yourself.Yi Airen's eloquence was originally very good, but he knew that he was going to interrogate, so he made some preparations in his heart.When he got to the hall, he was really eloquent. The three hall officials never asked him.What he said is really reasonable and everything can be proved. It is all for the country and the people, not selfish.Later, it was recognized that it was the time of reclamation, because it was his own business, and he never entered the imperial court, so it was always a crime of negligence.Taking advantage of this fact, Tingjie sentenced him to six months' imprisonment, handed it over to the prison officer for execution, and then retreated back to his house.The assistant minister whispered in secret, saying that this matter is extremely strange, why the old case of two or three years suddenly turned up at this time?Ting Shangshu did not interrogate him in detail, he followed what the prisoner said, and was confused, so he was convicted of this minor crime.It looks like there must be something wrong with it.Because of Xiyu's relationship with the Bannerman, she still favored Tingjie a little bit, saying that Ting Shangshu was an upright person, and there would never be any other reasons, or because of clearing up the accumulated cases, the early judgment would save long-term drag.Zhang Renpu only snorted, but he was very dissatisfied in his heart.When he returned to the house, he tried to detect the shady inside.

Tingjie deserved to be unlucky too. Renpu's leader, Ban Liusheng, and Tong Yi'airen's housekeeper, Yang Shun, were brothers of Baimeng.When Liu Sheng heard from his master that he wanted to investigate the case of Yi's family, he volunteered, saying that the master asked Wan An himself, that the family members would definitely find out the real news about this matter, and within three days, there would be a report.But I beg the master to give me three days off, so that I can spare time so that I can find someone to inquire about.Rinpo was overjoyed, that's great, if you can do it, I will reward you a lot.Liu Sheng was happy to go, so he wrote a letter to Yang Shun that night, asking him to listen to an opera in Tianyuan the next day, to have dinner at Meizhai, and to meet at the teahouse on the first floor after breakfast.The next day Liu Sheng hurriedly ate breakfast and went to the first floor to wait.Unexpectedly, Yang Shun arrived before him, on the third floor, drinking by himself.As soon as he saw Liu Sheng, he greeted him loudly: "Sir, sit here." Liu Sheng ran over, greeted each other and said, "It's rare that the second brother came so early and walked ahead of me." Yang Shun He laughed and said: "Brother Yu, how can you compare to you? You are a lucky person and you are busy all day long. We have a leisurely body, and we will arrive when we are called. It doesn't matter if you come a moment earlier." Liu Sheng poured tea for him and smiled Answered, saying: "Why does the second brother also appetize with the younger brother? You are a well-established person, and you don't need to be like the younger brother as a cow and horse for others. I would rather not be busy. How can I have food if I am not busy?" Yang I am very happy to listen to his compliments, saying that you should take your time, there will always be times when you will be better than Brother Yu in the future.The two chatted and laughed, drank two pots of tea, Liu Sheng waited for the tea money, and walked to Tianyuan together. At this time, Mei Lanfang, Lu Sanbao, Meng Xiaodong, Zhao Xianfang, Jia Honglin and Tian Jiyun were singing in Tianle.When they entered, they were catching up with Jia Honglin's "Stealing Files"; after singing "Fanjiang Pass" by Mei Lanfang, Wang Huifang, and Xie Baolin; "Search and Rescue the Orphan"; Ya Zhouzi is "Double Bells" by Lu Sanbao, Tian Jiyun and Zhao Xianfang.This is Sanbao's specialty, but he refused to sing easily because the boss Tian Jiyun repeatedly begged him to sing.He can also rap, but Chen Xinglin is dead, no one is worthy of being an official, if Boss Tian is willing to ask an official, I will post this play.Tian Jiyun generously agreed, put on temporary boots, hats and gowns, changed into a Qing Dynasty uniform, and sang a piece of Kunqu Opera, which was really melodious and melodious.Yang Shun said with a smile: "I didn't expect that Boss Tian could sing Kunqu. I thought he could only sing Bangzi." Liu Sheng said, "Second Brother, you and Master Yi have been away for many years and you don't often listen to operas. In fact, Tian The boss passed the first six games, and Wen Wukun kicked him indiscriminately. He even sang Zhaoguan two years ago! If this is not the case, how can he be the head of the temple? Now the Zhengle Yuhua Association has been changed, so the first president , so I chose him. He hasn't sung very often recently, today we happened to be in a hurry, and we accidentally listened to his play, and finally our ears are very good." Yang Shun said: "He doesn't sing, so what do you point to for dinner?" Liu Sheng laughed and said, "Second brother, why are you talking nonsense? Now, among these famous actors, which one is only pointing at singing? Singing is nothing more than shadow grass. Those with great skills specialize in attracting officials and exercising for others. Weaknesses; those who are less capable, recruit a few princes and grandchildren, teach them to sing, and give them 180 taels of repair money every month. Is it much more uncomfortable than performing on stage?" Liu Sheng said in surprise: " Why do these princes and sons still worship opera singers as teachers?" Liu Sheng said: "What's so rare about this, Taobeile is Yang Xiaolou's disciple, and General Dong is Tan Jiaotian's disciple, who doesn't know this? Even King Jing, King Gong , although there are no teachers and students, with this group of opera singers, they all call brothers and brothers, regardless of eating and drinking. Seriously, who is as powerful as them!" Yang Shun snorted and said: "Dignified relatives, I'm next to you, how can the imperial court be good!" Liu Sheng hurriedly winked at him and forbade him to speak loudly. The play broke up when they were young, and the two went to the elegant seat of Meizhai on Meishi Street together, found a very quiet room, had wine and food, and drank happily with each other.Liu Sheng wanted to investigate the matter on purpose, so he let go of the persuasion.Drunk Yang Shun to a certain degree, and then tried it with words, saying: "Second brother has been in Yi Zhai for a long time, and he doesn't want to find a way to get ahead? Mrs. Yi is an imprisoned prisoner. It is expected that in this life, I am afraid that there will be no There is no hope of becoming an official again. Instead of staying in his house, how can second brother come out to do some activities? I heard that fourth master Rui has hope of recovery, if you go out with him, it will be much better than staying in Yi Zhai." Yang Shun sighed He said in one breath: "Brother Yu appreciates the kindness of my virtuous brother. But I have a weird temper, and I love the old. Master Yi has been my old boss for more than ten years. For example, he is still standing on the branch. Well, it doesn't matter whether I serve or not; now he is in prison, and the two young masters in his family are too young. I will take care of the furniture for them, conscientiously and honestly. If I want to leave, I will If it were someone else, no matter who it was, it wouldn't be as loyal as me. Such a huge piece of property would be taken away by others. In the future, Master Yi will be released from prison at the end of his term, how can I be worthy of him?" Liu Sheng sighed and said: "In these years, with the kindness of the second brother, I really can't find them with a lantern. But I think, the second brother is too pedantic, his family has silver, you can get a little bit of it, Trying to be happy in the second half of the life is what it should be, and it’s not ignorant, so why be so stubborn?” Yang Shun smiled slightly and said, “My good brother, I’m not afraid of you. Ten thousand and 20,000 is enough to get it at hand. I wouldn’t want one more, but if I want to put it on you, brother, it’s another big fortune.” Hearing that there was something in the words, Liu Sheng hurriedly asked further: “Why? What opportunity does Second Brother have, but he missed it? Why don’t you tell me, so that I can learn more from you.” Yang Shunchi paused, saying that this matter is very relevant, and you must not tell others after hearing it.Liu Sheng smiled and said: "Second brother is too worried. The younger brother has always kept his mouth shut. If it doesn't matter, he will rot in his stomach, let alone something to do with it. Second brother, please ask Wan'an. If anyone finds out in the future, I will be the only one. Ask." Hearing what he said so earnestly, Yang Shun believed it, and then said in a low voice, "Master Yi's case has been concluded, and you should know it after all." Liu Sheng said, "It's only natural. How can you not know about matters within the authority of the higher authority." Yang Shun said: "Brother Yu did this for him. Mrs. Li, the nanny of the Ting Shangshu, is my cousin and daughter-in-law. She often visits my house. I know she is Ting Shangshu. The popular person in the house, always said the same thing, and often told her about the grievances of our Patriarch, begging her to find an idea. She said that it is not difficult to find an idea, but it costs money to exercise. I asked her how much it would cost? She just opened her mouth and asked for it. One hundred thousand. I discussed with my wife and young master, and they said that as long as I was acquitted immediately, I would spend a hundred thousand. I said that this amount was too much. Later, I negotiated back and forth, and it was settled at 80,000 silver, and I was acquitted. If the charges can be mitigated , sentenced to one year's imprisonment, it was 40,000 yuan, half a year was 50,000 yuan. After three months of discussion, Ting Shangshu finally agreed. I also paid the 50,000 silver coins. Then Mrs. Li is so cruel, she never thanked her for a penny It was me, and I swallowed 20,000 by myself. Brother, think about it, if brother Yu loves money, take this opportunity to knock an extra 30,000 to 20,000 from the wife and the young master, isn’t it just a bag? I don’t even want this kind of money. If so, how can you count other people's property for no reason?" Liu Sheng said: "Second brother is so loyal and courageous, it is really rare in today's world. Even if the younger brother listens, he will learn the right way in the future You can’t just recognize money but not people.” After saying that, he toasted Yang Shun with a few cups of wine.He was already a little drunk, but he drank a few cups in a hurry, and became more and more drunk.Liu Sheng paid back the meal bill, specially ordered a carriage, and personally took Yang Shun home.Then he went back to Zhang's house to do business, and told Zhang Renpu everything Yang Shun said.Rinpo nodded and said I know.The accountant will receive ten taels of silver as a reward. Zhang Renpu sent Liu Sheng away, thinking in his mind: What a Tingjie, you usually open your mouth as an upright official, but keep your mouth shut as an honest official, but secretly you ask for money!Forgive you for making a fortune, but you still want us to be jurors. In the future, things will be messed up, and even our left and right servants will not be able to get rid of it.I have to think of a way to pre-empt the footsteps, don't wait for the censor to know, and join in together, that would be wronged.But I can't report this on my own, I still have to borrow a knife to kill someone.Among the current Yushi team, the one closest to me is Li Guohua, who is in charge of the Yunnan Road.He was my student, he was a Jinshi back then, and I was recommended by the house official, I just need to find him, so I don't have to worry about not being able to defeat Tingjie.Zhang Renpu made up his mind and went to visit Li Guohua that night.Seeing that it was the teacher who came, Guohua hurriedly let him go to the bedroom for a secret talk.In the future, Renpu intends to tell Guohua that he knows, and Guohua said, "Teacher, can you find out about this matter?" Renpu said, "Why not? If not, can I ask you to do it?" Guohua said : "In this case, even the memorial is drawn up by the teacher, and the disciples only have to sign it." Renpu's handwriting was originally fast and good. Hearing Guohua say this, he was honest and blunt, and fell on the table. After one o'clock, he drafted the manuscript and handed it to Guohua for reading, saying that there was something wrong with it, and he took care of writing to delete and modify it.This is up to the heavens to listen to, which is unusual, and it is always good to think carefully.Guohua said: "Teacher is too polite. How can you change the word for your old masterpiece, you are a disciple of Xia Xia?" Renpu laughed and said, "My brother is so polite. Our business is business and we have a bright future. Relationship. More consideration, it’s not wrong.” Guohua said: “It’s really perfect, there’s nothing to consider. When students come back, they copy it by themselves, and don’t use other people’s hands, so as not to leak the wind.” Renpu said: “ This is better. It’s just that my brother is working hard, and in Brother Yu’s heart, I always feel uneasy.” Guohua said: “What’s so hard about it, it’s much easier than writing a big paper that day.” The teachers and students talked for a while, Rinpo said goodbye and went back to the house.Sure enough, Guohua wrote out the memorial overnight, and he submitted it the next morning. The regent read various memorials, and suddenly saw "Li Guohua, the censor in charge of Yunnan Province, who took bribes for the minister of justice, and lightly overturned serious cases. If there is evidence, please punish him severely."The regent read these few reasons, and he didn't feel his heart moved, so he read down in detail.When he finished reading it, he became furious and said that it was not bad. Ting Jie, as Minister of the Ministry of Justice and the highest judicial officer in the country, dared to accept heavy bribes privately and overthrow a serious case that was not settled in the previous dynasty without authorization. Zhen Naili stunned his wits and was extremely daring.If you don't deal with him severely, how can you purge the group of bureaucrats in the future?When the regent thought of this, he had to hand over to the cabinet to send someone to investigate. Then he thought, it's not appropriate. One, Tingjie was promoted by himself. Now that he does such a thing, he finally spreads his ignorance. It's very ugly; both Tingjie is a banner member, if it is done seriously, it will not only hurt the feelings of the banner people, but also make the Han people more appreciative.Forget it, I'll call him first and reprimand him face to face.If he admits his mistake, I will try to cover it up for him, and it will be over.After making up his mind, he immediately sent Wang Hong, the eunuch who served as a close attendant, to send a quick message to Tingjie, Minister of the Ministry of Law, for face-to-face questioning. It didn't take long for Wang Hong to go, and Tingjie had been passed on.The regent sent a message to him to come up.Ting Jie also couldn't figure out what was the matter, so he had to come up to greet him and stand aside.The regent's face darkened, and he said to Ting Jie: "You have done a good job." Just saying this, Ting Jie was so frightened that he was at a loss what to do. Dare to do wrong.The regent sneered, then threw Li Guohua's booklet on the ground, and said, take a look for yourself, is this a good job?Trembling, Tingjie picked up the folder from the ground and read it on his knees.After reading two or three lines, I couldn't help jumping up in my heart, thinking to myself how could Li Guohua investigate this matter so clearly?Seeing the second half, even someone pleaded for love and someone overpaid, all of them were confessed.This surprise is really no small matter.He thought in his heart, if this matter is admitted, when the regent is angry, not only his fame will not be preserved, but even his life may be in danger.我莫如咬定牙关，只说没有这回事，料想王爷也无可奈何。他打定主意，连忙向上磕头，回奏道：“王爷明鉴。奴才官居极品，世受国恩，似这样贪赃枉法的事，如何敢做？并且他折上所说的李有才、李熊氏、杨顺等，奴才并不认识其人。似这样血口喷人，真是出乎情理之外，王爷怎能够信以为真呢？”摄政王听他推脱得这样干净，便问道：“既然这样，那怡古的罪名，你到底定了没有呢？”廷杰道：“罪名确是定了。”摄政王道：“怎样定的？”廷杰迟顿了片时回道：“奴才因为他办理开垦时，不曾奏明在案，总算矫命专擅，因此定了他半年监禁。”摄政王点点头，说：“你定的罪轻罪重，我也不管。但是我要问你，怡古的案子，当年是奉先帝旨意留刑部的，你可知道吗？”廷杰被这迎头一棒，吓得战战兢兢地回道：“奴……才知……道。”摄政王一拍桌子喝道：“我把你这大胆的老贼，你既知道是奉旨的钦犯，为什么不先奏明了，你就擅自定罪？难道说怡古专擅，应当监禁，似你这样专擅，就可以无罪吗？由这上看起来，怎能说没有情弊？你还敢在我面前撒谎调皮，希图卸罪！似你这样丧尽天良的东西，若不从重惩办，何以整肃群僚？你先滚下去听旨吧！也不用在我眼前胡缠了！” 廷杰见摄政王动了这大气，早吓得软瘫在地上，哪里还走得动。他本来生得肥而多肉，连急带吓，立时上了痰火。左右太监，将他架出去。幸亏总管王洪同他有交情，立刻派了一人肩舆，将他抬出宫去。送回宅中，赶忙请太医诊治，已经是来不及了。据太医说，风已入脏，这叫作真中，从来没有能活的。要是类中风，还可以设法救治。真中类中，有什么分别呢？真中是伸开十指，类中是握着两拳，所以说“伸两手立刻走，握双拳等十年”，这是一点也不会错的。如今廷杰伸着两只手，拳不回来，当然是无法救治了。哪知福无双至，祸不单行。正在这时候，有一位旗御史多寿，又严严参了一折。他这折子不但弹劾廷杰，连李有才、李熊氏，甚至平日同廷杰常往来的伶人田际云，开番菜馆的牛伯岷，开报馆的何益三，一同全奏下来了。本来摄政王正在怒气蓬勃之时，见了这个折子，益发火上浇油，将原折批交步军统领衙门拿办。 此时的步军统领还是乌谨。他接到这个包封，哪敢怠慢，派兵遣将，未出三天，便将一干人犯，俱都擒至提督衙门。只有廷杰因未奉上谕，不敢擅自逮捕，其余却是一个也不漏。可怜李熊氏，原想躲在廷杰宅中暂不露面，怎奈提督衙门派箭手到廷宅捕人，说你们如果不将李熊氏交出，我们便要进宅去搜。廷杰的太太，因为自己丈夫这一次遭事，完全由李熊氏而起，心里本就恨她，如今又见提督衙门这样逼迫，便向李熊氏说：“你早早到案去吧，在我家也隐藏不住。真等他们进来，将你搜捕了去，老爷的颜面何在？你只当疼顾老爷，快快去投案吧。”李熊氏冷笑道：“太太！你也不用着急，我既然敢做就敢当。投案算不了一回事，但是有一节，从前各事，虽是女仆说的，到底办与不办，是老爷做主。况且钱全是他一人使了，我如今到案，只有实话实说，可顾不得老爷不老爷了。”太太听她这般说，把脸全吓白了。又哭哭啼啼，再三央求，好妹妹不知叫了多少声，说：“无论如何，你要给老爷死后留脸。若真叫他睡到棺材里，还担了罪名，将来少爷长大了，拿什么脸见人？你就是不替老爷打算，也要爱惜你那干儿子啊！不要紧，花多少钱，全有我们廷家担负呢！”一壁说着，一壁向熊氏跪下叩头。熊氏忙跪下扶她，说：“我的太太，你要折受死我啊！这是什么大不了的事，也值得下跪。太太你自请放心，我方才不过是说着玩呢。平常日子，受老爷的大恩，粉身碎骨，也报答不过来；如今老爷遭了这样的事，该杀该剐，自有我们做仆人的去担当，分厘毫丝，也决不能牵到老爷身上。太太自管服侍老爷养病。如果好了呢，是我们大家的造化，天大罪全有我一个人去领。我必替老爷分得清清楚楚，决不至坏了他的功名。要倘然有一个意外，我也能替老爷洗冤，决不能丢了身后的恤典。太太你就放心吧。”太太听她这样说，心里不觉感激到十二分，又跪下给她行礼，说：“我代表我们一家老幼，先谢谢你吧！”熊氏将她搀起来，说：“太太快看老爷去吧，我这就去投案，没有工夫尽自唠叨了。” 二人正说着话，只见丫鬟慌慌张张地跑出来，说：“太太快看老爷去吧，他已经上了痰啦！”熊氏一听，连忙拉着太太，跑进里屋，见廷杰躺在炕上，两眼直往上翻，嗓子里的痰，已经呼啦呼啦地响起来。公子小姐在地下围着，只是哭。太太同熊氏，走至他眼前，廷杰看见熊氏，两眼一瞪，似乎要说什么话，却又说不上来。熊氏拍着自己的胸膛，说：“老爷自请放心走吧。你的罪名，全有我担呢！决不能叫你身后担处分，你可放心吗？”说也真怪，熊氏的话才说完，廷杰的眼就闭了。家中人自不免大哭起来。熊氏倒也不哭，乘着慌乱之际，她一个人便走出宅去，见了提督衙门的箭手，便笑道：“你诸位可是传李熊氏吗？”众人齐声道：“是的是的。”熊氏道：“好好！走吧，我就是李熊氏。”众人见她这样，倒不好意思说什么了。为首的赔着笑说：“李太太，我们决不难为你。你坐车，我们替你叫去，这里离衙门还远得很呢。”熊氏道：“多承诸位关照，我还能走几步，不坐车亦可以。”正说着，廷宅的管家常禄出来，说李大嫂，慢一点走，太太吩咐给你套车呢。熊氏摆一摆手说：“这个使不得！我从宅里出去投案，本就担着嫌疑，要再坐宅里的车，益发叫人有的说了。我还是叫一辆人力车吧。”常禄听她这样说，忙喊过一辆人力车来。四五个箭手，也每人坐了一辆，一直到提督衙门来。熊氏到了，本案的人犯一律齐备。值堂的守备王得海上去回话，乌谨吩咐在后花厅提讯。第一个先问李有才，有才咬定牙关，是一个字也不承认，说：“小人给廷大人宅里看守大门，从来不曾到过内宅，哪里够得上同廷大人过话。什么叫运动官司，小人连一个字不知道。”后来又提问杨顺，杨顺供的是：“小人在二年前，曾伺候过怡大人。自从怡大人遭官司，就被辞出宅了，早已不通闻问，焉能有运动官司的事呢？”第三个提到熊氏，只轻描淡写问了几句，熊氏回得更好，说：“廷宅太太的家规很严，小妇人虽当奶娘，只能坐在一间屋里，不准出门。一年之中，只有正月初一给老爷拜年，才得见一面，平常日子，连老爷的影儿也看不见啊！我倒想托情啦，向谁去说啊！”乌谨听她这样回，也不往下深究，便叫她下堂去了。 原来怡氏早已托了内情，乌谨的夫人同怡古的太太，是表姐妹。自从廷杰碰钉子回来，熊氏知道这事情恐怕不了，便寻找怡太太，求她去见乌太太，早早安置妥帖，请乌大人随时关照。因此乌谨接到这案，便早已胸有成竹了。要不然，熊氏一个妇人家，哪里有这大胆子，挺身出来投案，还敢拍胸脯替廷杰一力担当。不是显而易见的，有硬人情嘛。乌谨糊里糊涂地问了几句，便将熊氏放下，又提唱戏的田际云。田际云出来，更是侃侃而谈，毫无惧怯。他说伶人是一个操贱业的，除去登台演戏之外，别无所能，也别无所事。廷大人乃是皇上家的一品大员，若同我们唱戏的比较，真是一在九天，一在九渊，不要说托人情运动官司，我们想要望见颜色，也是不容易啊！似这样望风捕影之谈，却从何处说起呢？就求大人明鉴，笔下超生吧。乌谨道：“你的话很有理。本来一个唱戏的，何等低微，哪里能同尚书交谈，我必然替你设法开脱。”田际云连忙叩头谢恩。乌谨却低低的声音对他说道：“际云，你要知道，这是上命差遣，不得不然，我可绝不敢委屈你一点。你将来出去见了老王爷，可千万替我美言两句，别说我错待了你啊！”田际云也低声回道：“大人自请放心，我怎能那样没人心呢？”乌谨听了，立时满面赔笑的，吩咐左右将田际云带下。传何益三问话。 何益三是京都日报的总理，为人极漂亮。平常日子，连警厅全怕他三分，因为他法例既熟，口才又好，每逢警厅传报界问话时候，总是他代表大家答复一切。厅里的科长、科员，每每叫他问得闭口无言，反要用好话敷衍他，才能将他劝走。要不然，他故意捣乱，能把你窘得无处躲藏。因此警察对于报馆，虽然心里愤恨，面子上却极力敷衍。要较比民国以来对待的情形，还算强得多呢。何益三虽然打了奏案，他却满不放在心上。传上堂来，只鞠了一躬，站在案前，乌谨倒赔着笑脸问他，说：“何益三你同廷杰有什么关系？替他讲过什么案情？可详细对本堂说，本堂决不难为你。”何益三冷笑道：“大人你传学生来讯问，究竟是什么人告发？有什么凭据？我也好回话。要凭空海问，我认识人多得很呢！认识廷杰，也不能算一种罪名；不认识廷杰，也未必能宣告无罪。至于讲什么案情，我更是摸不着头脑，这些话从何处说起呢？”乌谨万没料到他反过嘴来诘问，倒闹得自己无言可答。沉吟了一会儿，才说道：“何益三，你要问什么人告发，这是奉旨交下来的案子，原来的奏折，便是证据。其余连我也不清头，你只好酌量着供吧。”何益三叹了一口气，说：“乌大人，你是一位著名的好官，总知道目前是什么时势。朝廷喊了几年变法维新，先帝驾崩时候，还留下遗旨，叫提前实行立宪，什么大权操之朝廷，庶政公诸舆论。如今却凭那御史以莫须有之言，上渎宸听，居然小题大做，硬派提督衙门捕拿无辜之人。这还成一个什么体统？那廷杰乃是朝廷特简的司法大臣，他要可以贪赃受贿，试问国家的颜面何在？我们新闻记者，洁身自好，但知公是公非，从来足不履公门，同那廷尚书，并无一面之识，有何牵连？大人你要一定硬坐人罪，请你随便造几句清供，也好回复朝廷。要一定叫我画供，我是茫无头绪，真不知道从何画起。你要一定判我罪，无论怎样，我都可以领受。不过在这时候，朝廷担一个摧残舆论的声名，传到外省去，叫那不法的革命党人知道了，又多了一个倡乱的题目，也未见得与朝廷有何利益。乌大人，你总要三思三想。”乌谨被何益三一套话，说得闭口无言。停了片刻，不觉长叹一声，说：“咳！何先生，你的话何尝不是。我虽然官居极品，手握大权，自信还不是糊涂昏聩、肉食者鄙之流。但是旨意交下来的案子，总不能不敷衍一场。请你先屈尊几天吧，我必定设法将这案子洗刷干净，决不叫被屈的人，受着一点牵连。”随吩咐左右，将何先生暂寄在优待室中，一切饮食起居，不许难为了他。左右答应一声，将何益三带下。 乌谨回到宅中，派文案拟了一封复折，将廷杰的罪名洗得干干净净，其余自然牵连不着。他的折子上去，正赶上廷杰的遗折也递上了。摄政王阅过，也不觉为之怆然。对左右太监说：“可怜廷杰是硬叫我把他吓死了。”再看乌谨的复折，将罪名俱都查虚，不觉点头赞叹，说：“老乌果然聪明！不但保全了廷杰的名誉，而且顾住了朝廷的体面，真可称先获我心！”随在折子后边批了四个字，是“一律开释”。又在廷杰遗折后边，也批了四个字，是“从优议恤”。折子发下去，内阁大臣自然是遵照办理。所有廷杰的恤典，拟旨进呈。一切繁文，也不必细表。 单说乌谨奉到开释上谕，一刻不停留，将本案一干人犯，俱都当堂释放了。这一个干人犯出了法部衙门，自有他们各人的家小同亲友，前来迎接。兴贝子驾着王府的马车，特来迎接田际云。田际云赶忙过去请安道谢。兴贝子拉了他的手，慰劳了一番。又说老王爷很想念你，你先不必回家，急速同我到府里走一遭吧。际云道：“这还用爷吩咐吗？我一出衙门，就先想到府里，给两位老人家同少王爷请安。一者省得大家挂念；二者也要当面叩谢援救之恩。”兴贝子笑道：“你不用客气了，快走吧。”际云随着他到恩王府，老恩王尚在内阁不曾回来，兴贝子领他去见侧福晋。原来田际云是恩王侧福晋的义子，所以乌谨不敢得罪他，反倒求他在王爷面前不要说自己坏话。满清末叶，伶人的势力也就可见一斑了。际云给侧福晋请过安，又要跪下叩头。侧福晋忙摇手拦住，又赐他坐下，问了问在法部的情形，可曾受着什么痛苦？际云忙回道：“孩儿仰义父义母的庇荫，并不曾受着丝毫痛苦，还蒙乌大人特别优待。”侧福晋点点头，说这还罢了，他本受过王爷的恩典，是应当这样的。正谈着，恩王也下朝回来，见了际云，也不免询问了几句。后来谈到在法部虽未受委屈，但是这一场官司，也花掉三千多块。因为同案的全是些穷苦朋友，自己虽不用花钱打点，但是这一班朋友，也不能看着他们受罪，随便点缀点缀，就花了三千多块。近来戏园子生意又不甚好，只有拉亏空吧。老恩王沉吟了一会儿，说：“这样吧，你看有什么人运动差缺，不妨替他说一说，我但能为力的，必然为力，借此就可调剂你了。”际云忙请安谢过，然后辞别恩王夫妻，回他家去。 他平日本专指着拉官纤为生，何况恩王又当面许了他？他益发放开胆子，四处兜揽，只可惜寻不出一个大头脑来。这一天他正在园子里唱戏，贴的是辛安驿，临时又改了蝴蝶杯。正在锦帐装睡之时，偶一睁眼，却看见包厢中一个人朝着笑。他见了不觉心中一动，便草草地将这戏唱完，忙卸了妆，一直奔到包厢中，朝着那人请了一个安，笑问道：“四爷好，你老几时回来的？我们快有半年没见了。”你道这人是谁？原来就是在河南避风头的瑞方。瑞方自从听了项子城的话，意马心猿，恨不即刻回京，好钻一条门路，运动开复。过了没有两天，他便辞别项子城，乘京汉车回至北京。到京后，虽然终日奔波，可惜他至近的几个朋友，全当的是闲散差使，没有一点权柄。内阁的三位大臣，除去拉同是旧友，余双仁不管事，恩王不甚欢喜他。因此白跑了半个月，并无一点成效。后来有人对他说：“你想运动问路，不必去寻做官的人，他们的力量是很薄弱的。你何不一访谭鑫培、田际云，他两个人全有很大的门路，也都说得进话去。并且这两个人，从前也受过你的好处，他们不好意思说不管，何必寻到别人呢？”一句话提醒了瑞方，第二天他便到外廊营亲自去访谭鑫培。偏巧老谭被上海大舞台约去了，前半月出京，至早也得一个月才能回来。瑞方如何等得及，只得再寻田际云。他自己想，凭我一品大员的身份，要亲自去拜访一个唱花旦的，面子上未免太难堪了，我何不借听戏为由，先到天乐园，同他对一对眼光，看他待我如何。瑞方打定主意，知道当日际云贴了辛安驿，这是他的杰作，万不能不唱。遂早早定了一间包厢，在下场过门第六厢，看得最清楚。他也不约朋友，只带了一名贴身的小厮，坐在厢中。看座的认得瑞四大人，格外巴结，沏了一壶双薰银针，摆上两碟瓜子、两碟鲜货，手巾把是一个赶着一个，接连不断。瑞方问看座的：“今天田老板准唱吗？”看座的躬身回道：“回四老爷话，今天老板准唱不诳。”只是刘义增告了病假，没人能配，多半得要改戏。瑞方问：“改什么？”看座的回说：“多半改蝴蝶杯，要不然就是蝴蝶梦。”瑞方拈髯笑道：“这两出全比辛安驿强。”看座的忙回道：“这是四爷福大，你老不喜听的戏，当然唱不成功。”瑞方哈哈大笑，说好小子，你真会捧场。看座的笑着走了。 台上是孟小冬、胡素仙、梅兰芳、李敬山、张宝昆、谢宝云一干人，唱全本回龙阁；唱完紧接着一出武戏，是李吉瑞的落马湖。这两出戏，占的工夫很大。天快黑了，才上蝴蝶杯。满园子的人，鸦雀无声，一个也不动，全等听田老板的戏。因为花旦戏，际云已经六七年不唱了，这一次因为遭了官司，故意要卖弄卖弄，所以才贴这一出戏。大家全是耳目一新，所以园子全挤满了。际云已经四十岁了，打扮出来，还是旖旎风流，不减当年风韵。台下彩声如雷，掌声震耳。配公子的是马全禄，说白做戏，无一不佳。际云卧在帐中，眯缝着眼，向包厢中瞧看。一眼看见瑞方，这是他多年的老主顾，怎敢怠慢。将戏唱完了，匆匆忙忙地下过妆，飞也似地奔至包厢中，先请过安，然后问长问短，亲热得了不得。瑞方只淡淡地敷衍了他几句。后来问到他遭官司的事，际云叹了一口气，说一言难尽。瑞方道：“这样你何不同我回宅去，咱们畅叙一番，在园子里说话，也有许多不便。”际云道：“这样好极了，我给四爷叫车去。”瑞方说不用，我的车在门外不远，咱们一同乘坐好了。际云说不成，我还得到后台去开发戏份。四爷先走一步，我随后准到。瑞方道：“也好，你先走吧。”二人一同下楼，际云回后台。瑞方坐上车，回自己本宅。 等了有一个钟点，际云果然赶到了。瑞方留他在宅里吃晚饭，二人一壁饮酒，一壁追叙已往的事。际云谈话之间，很感激老恩王，说：“这次若不亏他老人家格外关照，这场包封官司，是不易摆脱的。他老人家不但救了我的命，还应许替我筹款，弥补亏空。似这样天高地厚，粉身碎骨，也报答不了。”瑞方道：“老头子怎样替你筹款呢？”际云也不隐瞒，随将上项事，详细说知。瑞方道：“这可是大开方便之门，不知你已经做成了几号？”际云叹道：“四爷不要问了，我今年的流年太不利，干东东不着，干西西不顺，空辜负老人家一片美意，连一笔上万的生意，也寻不着。四爷做过多年封疆，各省的阔官，你认得最多。有什么机会，请替我撮合撮合，我们就沾了大光了。”瑞方点点头说：“你不要忙，我一定替你想法子。我如今问你，邮传部兴尚书，你可认得他吗？”际云道：“四爷说的可是兴显徽吗？”瑞方道：“正是此人。”际云道：“要论兴大人，确是我的老恩主。戊戌变政那一年，外边给我造谣言，硬说我是康党，替光绪爷采办西服。太后老佛爷大怒，几乎把我杀了。是我消息灵通，李得用二爷老早地给我送信，叫我急速逃生。我扮了一个扬州妇人模样，连夜逃出京城。在天津租界住了三天，风声更紧，我只身乘轮跑至上海。幸亏兴大人正做上海道，我在租界中，给他去了一封信，求他保护。他第二天便到租界来看我，说了许多安慰话。并嘱咐我，千万不可出名唱戏，他情愿把租界一所闲房，让给我住，并给我留下两千块钱零用，只是不准我唱戏。他说你一唱戏，我便没法子保护你了。因此我听了他的话，凡有来约的，一概拒绝。新舞台出到七千块钱一月，我全没敢应许。直住了一年多，花了兴大人足有两万多块钱。后来还是李二爷给我来信，说老佛爷的气已经消了，我才敢回北京。您请想，兴大人待我的好处，我今生今世，能够忘了他吗？”瑞方点点头说：“你可知道兴大人近来怎么样？”际云道：“许多日子未见了，听说他老人家近来心绪不佳。因为什么铁路国有的事，某省起了很大风潮，几乎闹成民变，因此摄政王爷说他办事操切，圣眷很不优隆。这事可是真的吗？”瑞方道：“怎么不是真的？眼看四川又要造反了，他要不及早想法子，只怕将来如火燎原。这个罪名，完全要坐在他一个人身上，你说可怕不可怕呢？”际云听了，很着急地问道：“四爷，你可有什么高明法子吗？”瑞方微微一笑，说：“我岂但有高明法子，还保管马到成功。老兴不但担不着不是，还能跟着露脸呢。”际云一听，忙再三催问，到底有什么高明主意。瑞方不慌不忙的，附在他耳边，告诉如此这般，准能将事情挽回过来。只是这穿针引线的人，必须你去做，方才不露痕迹。际云一力担当，说明天我便去寻兴大人。他吃罢饭告辞去了。 第二天果然去寻兴显徽，当日晚间，便喜滋滋地来见瑞方。一见面，就深深请安，说恭喜四爷，指日就要高升了。瑞方见他这样，心里明白一定是兴尚书那边，有什么好音。虽然面子上故作镇定，却早已喜形于色。忙问际云：“什么事情值得贺喜？”际云道：“昨天四爷说的话，我今天全对兴大人说了。他也很以为然，说这件事非瑞四爷出马，不容易解决。我很想将他举出来，前去收拾一切。但是这其间有许多难处，我虽说是邮传部尚书，但是起用废员，还得内阁做主。老恩王那一关，很不易通过，自要将他打点好了，别人全好办。余中堂是聋子的耳朵，不管闲事；拉中堂同瑞四爷，是多年老同事，