Chapter 52 The forty-ninth round of imperial envoys boarded the journey in a starry night to lead Suoyinjiang Village to Ma

Xingxian Huizheng had a very speculative conversation with the Rui side, when he suddenly saw Zhao Gui, the close-fitting leader, coming in, and said to him in a low voice: "Just now there is a phone call in the mansion, please go right away, sir. It is said that it is the regent prince, and I am anxiously waiting to discuss the matter." It's a matter." Xing Xianhui heard this, so he didn't dare to be negligent, he stood up immediately, bowed his hands to Rui Fang, and said that the prince called me into the mansion to discuss matters, probably because of my brother's problem, sorry brother Yu can't accompany me.Rui Fang also stood up and said, "It's getting late, and my younger brother is going home too. Big brother, please tell me. Our brothers have made it clear, so there is no need to say polite words." The two broke up, and Rui Fang returned home. His home was silent all night.In the early morning of the next day, before Rui Fang got up, he heard three gunshots outside the door, followed by a noisy crowd, shouting together, and the sound of "announcement of good news" continued one after another.First, the maid Mrs. Wang came in, and said with a smile, "Congratulations to the master and wife! The master appointed a restoration officer, and he got some kind of supervision." Just as he was speaking, Li Huchen also ran in and said, "Hurry up, old man! The decree has come down." As he spoke, he handed the happy announcement note to Rui Fang for viewing.Rui Fang took it over from the middle, and saw that it was written clearly, it was: "Master Rui of your mansion, the official seal party: Now here is an order, Rui Fang rewarded the Ministry of War with the title of Minister of the Army, and supervised the railway affairs of the three provinces of Guangdong, Han and Sichuan. Qin. Here." The next subparagraph is signed by the "Cabinet Communication Office Report".When Rui Fang saw it, he was naturally overjoyed.Get up and get dressed, and at the same time tell Li Huchen to pay one hundred yuan from the accountant to reward the good news.After he got up, he followed Ruimian, Ruijin, and Ruiqi, and they all ran in to say congratulations.The men, women, and children in the family surrounded Rui Fang's house in groups, talking a lot, all wanting Rui Fang to take them out.The Swiss side didn't approve or deny it, and just told them to wait.After I changed my clothes, I didn't even bother to eat any snacks, so I called for a carriage and went out to visit guests.The first place is Enwang Mansion, then Lazhongtang Mansion, Yu Zhongtang Mansion, and Xingshangshu Mansion.Asking when to summon him, King En said to him: "At four o'clock in the afternoon today, you should go to Jilingyuan and wait first." Rui Fang promised to come back, and after a hasty breakfast, he entered Donghua Gate at two o'clock, first in the Prince Regent's Mansion Registered.Another four hundred yuan was sealed and handed over to the eunuch in charge of the gate.When the eunuch got the money, he led him to the governor's hall to wait.

When I was young, King En also arrived.After a while, a guard sent a message, asking Rui Fang to come to the inner hall to summon him.At this time, Rui Fang called Xie En for the first time after his dismissal, so he was very solemn: he was wearing a boa robe and a court hat, and he was wearing a second-grade top bead.The guards led him to the palace, and saw the regent sitting in the middle, the old Enwang sitting beside him, and the four accompanying eunuchs standing on both sides.Rui Fang took a few steps, knelt down in front of the regent and kowtowed to thank him, saying: "Slave Rui Fang pleases the Lord, and thanks for the grace." It's gone." Rui Fang obeyed the order and stood up, standing by the side.The regent said: "I haven't seen you for three years, and my beard is all white." Rui Fang bowed and replied, "Last time, the servant offended the Mercy, and he deserves death! Mengfo and the prince are kind enough to protect the leader. Therefore, I shut the door at home and thought about my mistakes, complaining about myself, and often thinking about the kindness of my father. The servant recalls the mistakes of the past, and besides being grateful, I am deeply ashamed." When he said this, he couldn't stop the tears from falling from his eyes.When the regent saw him, he thought he was really loyal. Instead, he comforted him with kind words, saying: "There is no need to mention the past. As the saying goes: People are not saints, and no one can make mistakes; if mistakes can be corrected, it is a good man. You, I confessed my love for you in front of the Empress Dowager. The Empress Dowager was also very understanding and told me to pass on a message to you: This time when you go out, you must work hard to run the three provinces railway well, and you will live up to the court. It's a lot of painstaking efforts to use the disabled staff." Rui Fang hurriedly kowtowed to the Empress Dowager for her grace.Also ask the Regent, when will he leave Beijing?Zaifeng pondered for a while, and said: "This matter should not be delayed for a long time, you should go early, and you don't need to come to ask for instructions before leaving." Rui Fang kowtowed again, and then went out to his home, and then took care of it luggage.

The entourage he brought was determined by him a few days ago: Li Qingchen was in charge of the documents; Wan Youyi was in charge of diplomacy; these two were transferred from Zhili.Sun Huiqing was in charge of the outer accounting room; his sixth master, Ruijin, was in charge of the inner accounting room; Li Huchen was the accompanying military patrol; Ma'er and Zhu'er were the personal servants; It is to serve my aunt.Xing Xianhui and Lao Enwang each recommended two more attendants, and the Swiss side had to accept them.After setting a date to get up, I set up a few more tables before the date, and bid farewell to my relatives and friends in Beijing.On the morning of the second day, I booked a special bus from Jinghan Station.The station master knew that he was an imperial envoy, so he dared not be negligent, so he specially hung up a float, two first-class cars, one dining car, one luggage car, and one third-class car, and cleaned them up very cleanly.Rui Fang took his entourage and servants, got into the carriage from the house, and arrived at the station.Going out of Beijing this time is no different than going to Henan to hide from the Ministry of Justice's lawsuit last year.There were twenty or thirty civil and military officials in Beijing who saw them off at the station; his eldest wife brought her son Ruiqi, daughter Ruizhen, the fifth master and the fifth wife, and the sixth wife's family, young and old, all came. Seeing off, the station is very lively.Rui Fang circled around with everyone, and then explained a few words to his family members. When the car was about to start, the whistle blew, and Rui waved his hands to everyone and went away.

He explained in advance that when the car arrived in Zhangde, it would stop for a day and a night, so as to meet with Xiangzicheng in Huanshang Village.At this time, Xiang Zhai had received a telegram, and Zicheng sent his sixth younger brother Xiang Zide to wait at the station with a dozen family members and five carriages.When I was young, Rui's special car arrived, and everyone rushed to welcome it.Rui Fang only took his concubine, Ruijin, Li Huchen, and his personal servants, maids, maids, etc. to Xiang's house, and ordered the rest to wait in the car.When they arrived at Xiang's house, Zicheng personally greeted them out of the gate, first invited the empress dowager and the emperor's Shengan, and then saluted each other.In fact, in Xiang Zicheng's mind, there is no such thing as a Manchu emperor, but he still dare not make mistakes in these rules, and it is just to cover the eyes and ears of the bannermen.How could Rui Fang see through his scheming, and still think that Zicheng is abiding by his courtiers!The two went straight into the inner hall hand in hand, and the women's family had Mrs. Xiang take care of everything.Zicheng smiled and said to Rui Fang: "Congratulations on your appointment this time, you finally have a good face, and it is not in vain that Brother Yu planned for you." It's about time, if it's one or two months later, this opportunity may be missed." Zicheng said: "Which province do you start this time?" Rui Fang said: "The current trend is in Sichuan, it seems We have to start with Sichuan Province first. As long as the Sichuan issue is resolved, the rest will be solved naturally. But my younger brother thinks so. As for whether it is appropriate or not, I have to ask my fourth brother for instructions. I am here this time to ask for advice sincerely, fourth brother Qian Don't be too polite." Xiang Zicheng said: "Our own brothers can't even say the word "ask for advice." Today you came a long way, and I have prepared a table of wine and food for you. Let's have a drink, and then Let's talk slowly." Hearing what Zicheng said, the family hurriedly adjusted the table.

There are no outsiders here, just four brothers from his two families.Zicheng first toasted his brother with a glass of wine, and then said: "You plan to go to Sichuan first. This idea is not wrong, but you have to be cautious. I also received a letter from Sichuan Province yesterday. That Song Laoer is really reckless." Destroying cracks, it was a good way to stir up this earth-shattering storm. In fact, this matter should be done before anyone knows it, and it will be done without anyone noticing. There is no need to beat the drums like that, It's arresting people and dispatching troops. From this point of view, Song Laoer has become an idiot." Rui Fang said: "If this matter is in the hands of the fourth brother, what should we do?" Zicheng laughed loudly. He laughed and said, "What's so difficult about such a small matter? Haven't you ever read Mencius?" The big-minded gentlemen secretly invited them and told them the difficulties of the emperor's family; then they were ordered to communicate with everyone; as long as they promised to protect the case and spend some money on them, they would get rid of their sympathy and replace them. The government speaks, and the custody is properly handled. We don't have to worry about it, and it doesn't cause accidents. The local pressure is used. But I don’t understand that Sichuan is different from other provinces. The people are very barbaric; plus there are a group of gentlemen who are agitating from it, how can it not be like this? Brother, do you think I’m right? Rui Fang unconsciously clapped his hands in agreement, and said, "Don't mention how thorough what the fourth brother said. It can be seen that all affairs in the world are handled by people. I will definitely follow your words and wait for the opportunity to act when I go this time. But please rest early If there is a big storm in one day, it is not in vain for our brothers to be the first."

Xiang Zicheng shook his head with a smile and said: "Brother Yu, I would like to advise you a few words. I think you may not be willing to listen. However, we brothers have a good relationship, and when things come to an end, we have to say a few words of concern. As for whether to listen or not, we have to decide You are alone." Rui Fang was taken aback when he heard this, wondering if there is any danger here?Quickly questioned, and said: "My younger brother doesn't understand what the fourth brother said. Is there any reason behind the inside story? Please explain, my younger brother will listen." Xiang Zicheng sighed before he opened his mouth. He breathed a sigh of relief and said, "You must pass through Hubei when you come to Sichuan this time. The air in Hubei is very bad at the moment. You should always be cautious. It is best to find a quiet place and live for a month or two. Just say yes. If you are sick, you are secretly looking at the limelight. If the limelight goes well, you stand up; Do not stay in Hubei for a long time. It is best to pass through Hubei and go to Sichuan as soon as possible. When you arrive in Sichuan, you should not rush. You must first observe the expansion and contraction of people’s hearts. Wait until the limelight is over, and then think of a solution. If the popular sentiment is fake and made by a few people, we can also let go of it. Fortunately, my brother is very alert and will never hit a hard nail. You should carefully consider the parting message you intend to give."

Rui Fang asked in amazement: "Fourth brother, you have the best eyes and ears. Could it be that the overall situation in Hubei has changed?" Zicheng smiled and said, "Where did the change come from? But we must not let this worry about it." Rui Fang said: "In this case, why does the fourth brother say that the air there is not good?" Zicheng said: "You didn't know that the governor of the two lakes is not Xiangcheng now? He was a young playboy with a money addiction Of course you know the name of He Qiao. There is a lot of complaints now. All the new troops that Zhuang Zhongtang trained in the past, he moved randomly, changed his methods, and wanted money from the soldiers. Think about those soldiers. Do you pay your superiors out of your own pocket? Falling leaves return to their roots, and they are still deducting military pay. I heard that they have not been paid for three or four months, and a group of brothers who serve as soldiers are so poor that they are screaming. Fortunately, they trained well in the past, otherwise , has already bombed the camp and looted merchants and people. In such a situation, mutiny may happen one day, so it is not dangerous? So I advise you not to live there for a long time, that’s what it means.” Rui Fang smiled and said: “I just want It turned out to be an urgent issue, but it turned out to be because the morale of the army was unstable. The younger brother said a big word, I may not be able to do other things. As for the new army in Hubei, they were all my old subordinates back then, and most of the officers who led the army were promoted by me. Zhuang Zhongtang is lucky to have Zhang Bao alone. I have always looked down on him, and he dare not get close to me. Small, small things are nothing, why should fourth brother worry about this matter?" Hearing what he said, Xiang Zicheng immediately changed his tone and said: "It turns out that this is the case, so don't be afraid. It can be seen that Brother Yu is worrying about it, and he is on the stage with his younger brother. In this case, you should go earlier, and it doesn’t matter if you stay in Hubei for a few more days. Or if there is any chance, you can change the governorship of the two lakes and save the trek to Sichuan.”

Rui Fang didn't know what Xiang Zicheng's intentions were, and he also recognized how close he was to him, and immediately his eyebrows brightened, as if he really loved the governor of the two lakes.But I don't know, Xiang Zicheng was really concerned about him from the beginning, fearing that he would jump into a dangerous nest and be unable to get out; after hearing what he said, half of him showed off his identity, and half of him was protecting his kind of bannerman. People can't be trusted as confidantes, why don't you take this opportunity to encourage him a few words and tell him to go and try the danger himself.If he can be eliminated, one of the bannermen will be counted as healthy, so that he will not be hindered in the future.With such a deep heart, how could Rui Fang guess it?He also thought that Zicheng was hoping for his early promotion!So I am very proud, the more I talk, the more speculative I am, and I drink a lot.Don't eat until 80% of them are drunk.After dinner we talked for another two hours before we left.They still boarded the car with their family members and drove to Hankou overnight, and didn't stop until Dazhimen.

Before the car arrived at the station, flags were seen flying from a distance, and many people stopped in front of the station.As soon as the car entered the station, I heard the sound of drums and horns, and the sound of military music shook my ears.When the car stopped, I saw many people gathered around.At this moment, Li Huchen held the door of the car, passed the order of the imperial envoy, and said loudly: "I am ordered by the imperial envoy, all the adults and lords who come to pick me up, hand in the papers and notebooks, and then wait for them in turn." This sentence was finished. At that time, many people were scrambling to submit posts and manuscripts.Li Huchen took them one by one and sent them to Rui.The Swiss side looked carefully: there was a postcard for late students from Xiang, but he did not come in person, and a small red sign was stuck on it, which said that Wang Pengnian, the special committee's academic envoy, was the representative and welcomed him at the station; The manuscript is Wang Pengnian, the envoy of Tixue in Hubei; the rest are the two divisions of Fan and Nian, the capital of the capital, and Huang Dedao of the same Han Dynasty; a manuscript.Rui Fang looked at it and felt very upset, saying that he could not blame Fourth Master Xiang for saying that he was not a thing, so it turned out that he was not wronged at all.How much status do you have as a governor?When the imperial envoy arrived, he didn't come to pick him up in person; besides, I'm still his old uncle in terms of friendship, so he shouldn't be so arrogant!While thinking about it, he told Li Huchen: "Please only ask the three divisions of the feudal school, the chief minister of the capital, the emperor of the Han Dynasty, the two commanders of Zhang and Li, and thank you for the rest. See you again after Xingyuan." As soon as he said this, these big-minded officials immediately got into the car.There is no need to list all the red tape.

Rui said a few perfunctory words to everyone, and then asked the capital, is Xingyuan in Hankou or Wuchang?Li Tianhong hurriedly came over to greet An and replied: "Back to the commander-in-chief, Xingyuan is in Wuchang City, which was the former court office. The commander-in-chief lived there for two years, so please come and stay there for festivals now." Rui Fang heard that Xingyuan Hitting at the governor's yamen, I was very happy in my heart, and rewarded Tian Hong casually, saying: "It's rare that you are so careful and considerate of the old boss's wishes in everything, and it's not in vain that we got married back then." Tian Hong bowed He replied: "Mu En is ashamed to receive the award from the Commander-in-Chief. Please tell me what the Commander-in-Chief needs to use in the future. Mu En will go to Xingyuan every day to wait for orders." Rui Fang nodded, saying that would be better.Then he turned his face away and said to Zhang Bao: "I heard that you are now the governor of the town, and also the governor of the Central Committee, and your job is very popular!" Zhang Bao bowed and said, "It all depends on the cultivation of the commander. " Rui Fang said: "You are welcome! How have I cultivated you?" He looked up again, looked at Zhang Bao carefully, and said with a smile: "Your demeanor has not diminished in the past, and your face has become fairer. It is a pity that Zhuang Zhongtang passed away. It's too early, otherwise, you can become the admiral of the army." A few words made Zhang Bao's face flushed, and he lowered his head and dared not answer.Wang Pengnian, the school secretary, was honest and honest, so he was too embarrassed to look at him, so he hurriedly said to Rui Fang: "The commander-in-chief is exhausted, please go to Xingyuan early to rest. The river boat is ready." Rui Fang said: "Brother I don't feel tired, why is Dian Yuangong so impatient?" It turned out that Peng Nian was born as the number one scholar, and Rui Fang deliberately teased him.Peng Nian didn't dare to say anything more.High or low, Tianhong gave Li Huchen a wink, and Huchen stood at the door of the car and called out loudly: "Bring over the commander's sedan chair!" Get out of the car and get on the sedan chair.All the officials, some in sedan chairs and some on horseback, escorted him to the riverside together.At this time, the family members and entourage had already boarded the boat and waited.Rui Fang and his family members took a boat, and all the officials took a boat.In the middle of the river, the steamer was very steady and fast, and arrived in Wuchang in a short time.

After getting off the boat, Rui Fang and his aunt and wife all sat in sedan chairs, and the rest were all in carriages, and went straight into the city.When I came to the Governor's Yamen, I immediately hung up the sign and went to meet the guests in three days.This is the identity of the Great Constitution, as it were.All the officials, some returned to the Yamen, and some went to the governor's Yamen to sell their jobs.Only Zhang Bao, suffocated, said in his heart: You and I are really enemies, why do you make people happy when we meet, what kind of officialdom is this?Such a Li Tianhong, it seems that you will curry favor with your superiors, and when I see Xiangshuai, I will never let you go.He immediately went to the Governor's Yamen to report to Xiangcheng.As soon as Xiangcheng met, he asked him if the imperial envoy was happy?Did you blame me for not picking him up?Zhang Bao replied: "The imperial envoy didn't say anything, but Li Tianhong wanted to be talkative. He said to the imperial envoy: "Master Xiang is busy with business and has no time to receive the imperial envoy. If the imperial envoy has any orders, tell me the same." He himself Gu Yixian was courteous. The imperial envoy immediately darkened his face and said that I came here on order. He was busy with business, and mine was even busier. It was Zhi Zhen who saw that this was a bad look, so he hurried over to say a few perfunctory words before breaking the matter up. Open. So as soon as he arrived at Xingyuan, he put up a card and said that he would not have any guests for three days, so he came here for the general." When Xiangcheng heard this, he patted the table and shouted: "What a Li Tianhong! You Why did you cause trouble for me? Call him quickly, I have to ask him face to face." Zhang Bao stopped and said, "Calm down first, commander, it's always better not to ask about this matter. Who doesn't know that Tianhong is Master Rui The most proud general back then, the commander-in-chief scolded him face to face, and he must have gone to the imperial envoy to complain about his grievances. Wouldn’t the relationship between each other grow deeper and deeper? According to Zhizhen’s thinking, it’s better to wait for the imperial envoy to start the festival, and then slowly It’s not too late to blame him.” Xiangcheng thought for a while, and said, “Your plan is right, ignore him for now, and settle the score later. But from now on, all the food and beverages for the imperial envoys will be provided by Li Tianhong himself. Take the money for handling, and you are not allowed to collect it from the Supporting Bureau. Only when you have collected enough money in the future will you be allowed to make regular expenses. You can pass this meaning to Li Tianhong and ask him to follow it." Zhang Bao got the general's order, returned to the mansion, and immediately I asked the copy to prepare an official document, and Li Tianhong said, "I was ordered by the commander in chief. Now that the treasury is out of money, all the supplies of the imperial envoy Rui Shilang will be raised by Li Tianhong himself, the head of the association. Then verify the leadership, and follow it immediately, and earnestly follow this letter." When the official business arrived, Tianhong saw it, jumped up and shouted: "It's unreasonable! The imperial envoy, he didn't provide it, but asked us to provide it. I am a coordinator, and I have a lot of benefits. I can advance this much money. Besides This assignment was originally Zhang Bao's responsibility, but the commander transferred it to me. I have caused so much trouble for no reason, it is already an unspeakable grievance, and now it is too unreasonable to ask me to pay for it !” While arguing, he called Zhang Xingwen and Xun Wen over, discussed with them, and said, “I, the coordinator, really can’t do it. Take a look at this business, is there any way for me to make a living?” The two looked at it, and Xun Wen said: "According to my humble opinion, it may not be Xiangshuai's intention. It is probably Zhang Bao's false edict. It is best for the commander to present this official document to Xiangshuai and ask for instructions in person. Whether it is true or not. Naturally, we will know." Zhang Xingwen said: "This idea is not very appropriate. Although Zhang Bao is bold, he may not dare to falsely pass on the commander-in-chief's order. We will ask for instructions in person, and he will admit it, so there is no room for change, except for resignation. , There is no way. This way, it will be self-defeating. Yibeibian's idea is to blame Soochow and implement a method of provocation. Fortunately, the imperial envoy Rui and the commander are old friends, and the commander also undertakes his errand, so we can meet at any time There is no need to wait three days later, I will take this business to find him today, and ask him what to do. According to Beibian, Narui imperial envoy is the most naughty official, and he must have a good way to deal with it, and he will never say anything Let Zhang Bao have a taste and know that we should not be bullied." Li Tianhong said that this idea was really the best, and I immediately went to find an imperial envoy.Xingwen stopped again: "It's best for the commander to go after lighting the lamp, so as not to attract attention. I think since the leopard is against us, he must send someone to patrol secretly. We should always avoid it." Hong nodded in agreement. In the evening of the same day, he drove lightly and slipped to the governor's office alone.Li Huchen saw that it was Tianhong, so he hurried up to go back for him, and the Rui side heard it immediately.After talking for a few words, Tianhong presented Zhang Bao's official document to Rui Fang for viewing.After reading it, Rui Fang laughed loudly and asked Tian Hong, "What do you mean by your brother?" Tian Hong bowed and replied, "Mu En is supposed to supply the Marshal. But how dare Zhang Bao do this?" Despising the imperial envoy, Mu En really felt aggrieved, that's why she came to report to the commander-in-chief." Rui Fang smiled and said, "Don't be angry, I have my own way to deal with him. Go back and see the outcome tomorrow." Tianhong resigned.Rui Fang ordered Li Qingchen to prepare an official document overnight and consult the governors of the two lakes.The general idea in it is: The main hall was ordered to go out of Beijing this time to supervise the railways of the three provinces of Guangdong, Han, and Sichuan.The lord ordered that the people of the three provinces would resist from time to time, and without military support, it would be difficult to deter them.Specially added the title of Minister of the Army Department, all the military attaches of the three provinces belong to temperance.From the town below, all guards with knives are required.The army in each town is ready to be dispatched at any time.When coming to Wuchang this time, there must be a senior military officer waiting at the gate at any time, so that it can be solemnized.Cha Li Tianhong is only a coordinator, and it is difficult to set an example.You should ask the Governor-General to know Zhang Bao, the governor of the town, to bring twelve guards to serve you at six o'clock in the morning every day.If there is a violation, the military law shall be followed.In addition to ordering the township, please consult your office accordingly, please check and file.This consultation with the governor of the two lakes, Bu Tangxiang.In addition to the message, another letter was prepared, and at five o'clock the next day, people were sent to the two departments of the governor's town.Zhenbiaozhong received an official mission from the imperial envoy, so he dared to neglect it, and immediately sent it to Zhang Bao's mansion. At this time, Zhang Bao didn't sleep much.It turned out that he had a huge addiction to opium, and he would blow until the fourth watch every night, when the rooster was about to crow, before he could take off his clothes and rest.I didn't wake up until after noon the next day.After waking up, the servants and maids who waited on the big cigarettes pre-packed four puffs of cigarettes, and each puff was always around eight points.As soon as he hummed, the servant handed the bong into his mouth.He closed his eyes and took a couple of sips first, and then a bowl of very strong black tea followed.He drank it down, endured it for a while, and then took another two sips.After smoking, there was another half bowl of bird's nest porridge, and he could only put on his clothes after eating.I don't even care about rinsing my mouth and cleansing my face when I get up, and then lie down and take eight big mouthfuls to recover my spirits, then clean my face, rinse my mouth and eat some snacks.After eating snacks, you have to lie down and smoke, and then take another eight mouthfuls.Smoke enough, and then have breakfast.After breakfast, he changed his clothes and went to the yamen to deal with official business, and stopped smoking during the day.After dinner and lighting the lamps, he still lay down and smoked.This inhalation lasts most of the night, and I can't stop until the fourth or fifth watch.This is his homework day and night, and he will not live if he makes a mistake.When he served Zhuang Zhongtang in the past, he didn't smoke at all, but after Zhongtang was promoted to Beijing, he gradually became addicted to smoking.Relying on his strong backing, successive governors treated him with respect, and his addiction to smoking became bigger and bigger.Unexpectedly, this enemy, Rui Fang, came, and he insisted on going against the imperial envoy for a moment, so he caused this trouble. At dawn, Zhen Biao sent the official document.The servant saw that it was the official business of the imperial envoy, and thought that he had been entrusted to his master, so he immediately took it up and handed it to the servant who ran to the room, and the servant gave it to the servant girl.The servant girl brought it into the room and saw that Mrs. Zhuang was already awake, so she handed it to her, saying that it was sent by Zhenbiao, please ask her to take a look first.Mrs. Zhuang took it, unsealed it, took out the official affairs inside, and looked at it carefully.If you don't look at it, it's all right. When you look at it, you can't help but break out in a cold sweat.How dare he be negligent, he woke up Zhang Bao vigorously at that time.Zhang Bao has always been sleeping, except for his wife, no one else called him.He was sleeping soundly, when he was suddenly woken up, he was so angry that he was about to attack, when he saw that it was Mrs. Zhuang, he was so frightened that he dared not make a sound again.With blurred eyes, she asked: "It's still early at this time, why doesn't Madam take a rest, what do you want me to do?" Madam Zhuang sneered and said: "You can talk freely, you have caused a catastrophe, and you still have to pretend to be confused! I'm afraid that from now on, there will be no days to rest, so why not get up quickly." How could Zhang Bao get up, he closed his eyes, intending to fall back to sleep.Mrs. Zhuang was really anxious, she picked up his ear and pulled it up.Zhang Bao bowed and fell down again, pleading: "Madam, please forgive me." Mrs. Zhuang said anxiously: "I don't want to forgive you! Now there is an official business for the imperial envoy Rui, I call you Go at once, if you are late, you will be beheaded!" These few words scared Zhang Bao's addiction to cigarettes, and he immediately got up, sat in the quilt, and opened his eyes.Asked: "Where is the official business of the imperial envoy?" Mrs. Zhuang handed Zhawen to him.He opened his eyes wide and looked at it, and he didn't feel an oops, and immediately panicked, grabbed his trousers, and put them on his head.Seeing him like this, Mrs. Zhuang was both ridiculous and pitiful, so she hurriedly called two maids to help him get dressed.Looking at the clock, it was already past six o'clock, and I burst into tears in anxiety, saying that I was late and my head would not be able to grow.Mrs. Zhuang also got up at this time, and said don't panic, the business is only on the first day, so you can be late, or you can avoid receiving it too late, the imperial envoy may not kill you.As far as I can see, this is just a show of power, and I want to scare you first.You must have offended him, otherwise, I would never have joked with you like this.One sentence reminded Zhang Bao, and he gritted his teeth and stomped his feet unconsciously: "Who said it was wrong! I always blamed me for doing something wrong, and I can't regret it at this time." Then he told Mrs. Zhuang what happened yesterday.Madam spat at him first, and scolded: "There is no such fool as you in the world! It's no wonder that people deal with you. As the saying goes, it's better to be in charge of the current official. He is the imperial envoy of the imperial court, and he is ordered to control the military officers of the provinces." , You want to be angry with him, isn’t this hitting the stone plate with an egg? Now that the matter has come to this point, you have to take the guards to stand for him. No matter how he abuses you, you have to accept it. When time comes, I will go to Mrs. Seven and ask her to turn to Xiang Shuai, and then talk to the imperial envoy. You still have to see Li Tianhong after work, and it is entirely on him. If he doesn't tell the imperial envoy, how can the imperial envoy You can know these things. You have to admit that you are unlucky, and how much money you have, and take it out for him first. He doesn’t have to pay for it himself, so naturally he won’t fight against you. Just perfunctory the imperial envoy, so that you don’t suffer immediate losses. From now on, you will be his Isn't it easy to try to get revenge on your boss?" Zhang Bao got his wife's order, and his heart was a little quieter.I'm just afraid that although I'm gone halfway, the addiction to smoking will come without an appointment.With snot, tears, yawns, and endless quarrels, where can I stand at the door?I was very anxious, so I had to take the cigarette case, wiped some and put it in my mouth.After drinking another bowl of strong tea, my heart settled down.Immediately put on the battle skirt, put on the command knife, put on the big hat, and tell the family to prepare the horse quickly.He took twelve more guards and went straight to the governor's yamen.When we arrived, we went to register first, and Li Huchen replied, "The commander-in-chief hasn't gotten up yet, please wait in front of the hall for a while." Zhang Bao had to take twelve guards and stood still in front of the hall, just like the imperial court in the palace. The guards are about the same.When the co-authors saw the admiral standing in front of the lobby wearing a headband, they all laughed around him from afar.These places also show the bad habits of Zuowu Youwen in the former Qing Dynasty.Therefore, when things are extreme, things will be reversed. In the Republic of China, these warriors have all become overseas emperors, and he still can't see how many civil servants stand on duty for him! When I was young, word came out that I would invite Zhang Junmen to meet in the flower hall.Zhang Bao was taken aback by the command.I had no choice but to agree loudly, and walked into the flower hall with the family involved.Rui Fang stood up and gave up his seat with an apologetic smile on his face.Zhang Bao invited Ann, but he didn't dare to sit, saying that the commander-in-chief was at the top, so there was no seat in the township.Rui Fang laughed and said, "That's too polite. We are old friends, don't talk about your staff, just sit down." At this time, Zhang Bao really complied with the flattered words. It's not good to sit, and it's not good not to sit. , my heart went up and down, and I didn't know what kind of medicine was sold in Ruifang's gourd, so I had to sit down boldly.Rui Fang said: "I'm really sorry for disturbing my brother's sweet dreams. Brother also has to be a little solemn because he is here for the first time." Zhang Bao said: "Even if the commander-in-chief is not on official business, the town should come to serve " Rui Fang said: "Brothers are leaving Beijing this time. According to the order of the regent, the two provinces of Guangdong and Hubei are allowed to select strong troops and bring them into Sichuan. All the soldiers' salaries will still be provided by the provinces. One province, that is the province that issued it. Now that I have come to Hubei, of course it will be collected by the Hubei Provincial Treasury. Unexpectedly, Xiangshuai told my brother that the provincial funds are short of money, and my brother will pay for it temporarily. In the future, the regular expenses will be paid. Brother heard For this letter, I have to invite my brother to discuss it face to face. The need for funds is very urgent. Can my brother borrow 30,000 yuan, and then I will notify Xiangshuai in an official document. In the future, the money will be settled, and I will never call my brother. In vain. I wonder if my brother agrees?" Zhang Bao never dreamed that Rui Fang would say such words.If you don't agree with your heart, you will suffer a loss in front of you; if you really agree, the 30,000 yuan is really heartbreaking.I had to use the tactic of dang, and replied: "the commander-in-chief can use the money, and the town can barely manage it. But you have to go to the ticket office to borrow it, and you have to ask the commander-in-chief to give you a time limit. It will never be a mistake." In Zhang Bao, If he thinks that his words are decent, he will definitely be able to prevaricate the Swiss side.Unexpectedly, Rui Fang was so cunning and cunning, but he didn't listen to that. Immediately, his face sank, he slapped the table and shouted: "Hey! I don't know how to praise things! Do you think I'm borrowing money from you? You have to push back and forth, and you have to ask Go to the ticket number to discuss. In the past few years, you have been deducting military pay in Hubei, and you have complained a lot. When the headquarters entered the country, many people reported on you. I was about to investigate, but you bewitched Xiangcheng and insulted the imperial envoy. You can touch it yourself There are a few heads on the item! If Xiangcheng doesn’t pay you, you have to take full responsibility! It’s only 30,000 yuan, and you still have to move around and use words to prevaricate me, you are too contemptuous of the Ministry!” Zhang Bao was so frightened that he fell to the ground, kowtowed repeatedly, and said: "The commander-in-chief, please rest the anger of the thunder. Zhizhen is confused, and he must correct his mistakes. Today, he will present the full amount of 30,000 yuan." Come on, don't dare to delay. Please forgive me, Marshal." Rui Fang said: "Since this is the case, you don't need to send it yourself. I will send someone to fetch it with you." After saying that, he called Li Huchen.Hu Chen was listening outside, and came in as soon as he heard the call.Rui Fang said: "You go outside with Zhang Zhentong, and you have 30,000 yuan, and you can get it immediately." Hu Chen agreed, helped Zhang Bao up, and said with a smile: "Junmen and I go outside to get money, don't just stay here Kneeling." Zhang Bao was afraid and ashamed, and followed Hu Chen out of the office.The two rode on horses and went all the way to Daedeok Pass, where they exchanged 30,000 yuan in foreign bank notes, and gave Hu Chen an additional 300 yuan, begging him to speak well in front of the commander-in-chief and to ask for leave on his behalf. Living.Hu Chen got the money and said to Zhang Bao: "Junmen, please go back to the mansion to enjoy yourself! I will handle everything for you. If the commander asks you, I will answer you." Zhang Bao went there gratefully. That's it, Li Huchen took the banknotes back to the office to sell the errand. Rui Fang was very proud of this big bamboo stick.It's just a pity for Zhang Bao-pity him for cashing out his money and looking forward to going home to enjoy himself.Riding on a horse, shaking and shaking, how can you sit firmly?Over and over again, almost fell off the horse.Fortunately, there were guards following him, one on the left and the other on the right, supporting him beside the horse.After finally coming to the gate of the mansion, he was helped off from the horse, and it was already a puddle of mud, so there was no room for him to walk.Everyone hurriedly carried him to the upper room and put him on the bed, only gasping for breath.The tears and snot flowed for a long time, and I just couldn't say a word with my mouth open.Look at the beads of sweat on the head, which are the size of a bean.Mrs. Zhuang saw the situation and knew that he was addicted, so she immediately asked the cigarette waiter to hold the lamp in the palm, and handed him the packed cigarettes for him to smoke.Unexpectedly, he didn't have any strength at this time, he opened his mouth wide, but couldn't suck it in.Mrs. Zhuang asked the smoker to smoke it herself, and sprayed it into Zhang Bao's mouth.After spraying for half an hour, he woke up slowly and was able to inhale by himself.After taking more than a dozen mouthfuls in one go, he drank another half bowl of bird's nest porridge before opening his eyes.Looking at Mrs. Zhuang, he let out a long sigh, and then said weakly: "Li Tianhong, why did you do such a murderous move? It almost took my life." Mrs. Zhuang asked him, how did he see the imperial envoy?Zhang Bao slowly learned to listen to her.庄夫人咬牙恨道：“这姓瑞的，太不讲情理了。常言说：打了不罚，罚了不打。你既把人派去给他看门，就不应当再敲这大的竹杠；你既要敲竹杠，就应当以礼待人。似此瞪眼要钱，岂不成了活强盗吗？罢罢！你从此以后，只在家里藏着。他再叫你，你只管推病不去，横竖他不能派人来抄家。以后我自有法子对付他，决能叫你出这口怨气。”张豹听了，跪在床上，连连向夫人叩头，说：“夫人果能这样，便是救了我张豹的性命了。”庄夫人吃过晚饭，果然去寻七姨太太，求她转托祥呈，向瑞方疏通一切。七姨太太满口应承，说：“姐姐自管放心，这事算不了什么。等明天便叫他去会钦差，先替姐夫请好了病假，再不至有麻烦了。”庄夫人再三叮咛，方才去了。 第二天，祥呈果然去会瑞方。论世交，他比瑞方晚一辈，见了面，倒是很恭敬的，称呼老世叔。瑞方向来是看不起人，何况一个晚生后辈，他更不放在眼里了，拿出老前辈的神气来，问祥呈道：“你这湖北最得力的营头，现在属哪一镇？”祥呈道：“湖北的兵，全是经庄中堂手练成的。除调走的不算，现在只剩了十二、十三两镇。十二镇归张豹带，十三镇归李天洪带。这两镇人确是劲旅，军装军械，也都特别整齐。不知老世叔询问军营，有什么调遣？”瑞方道：“我不日入川，是不能孤身去的，至少也要带两千人。我想从李天洪那一镇中，抽调五营，率带入川。如能叫天洪随我前去，那是再好没有了。倘然天洪不能去，可以叫他保荐一人，将来事竣之后，我必专折保荐。这是再优不过的差事，老世兄费神，就替我办理一下吧。”祥呈沉吟不语，略停了片刻，才答道：“老世叔尊谕，晚生本当照办。但是内中有种种难处，不能不先诉明：一者湖北新军，如今只剩了这两镇，当此多事之秋，其势不能再往外调；二者李天洪的兵，人类复杂，隐患甚长，晚生在这里，也不过是虚与羁縻，诸事不敢认真。若随老世叔前往，倘然路途之上出一点意外，晚生如何担当得起！还得求老世叔三思而行。”瑞方很诧异地问道：“你这话实在令人莫解，全是皇上家的兵，吃皇上家的饷，原为的是捍灾御侮，替国家消除隐患，怎么他自己本身，倒会有了隐患？这话从何而起，你倒要根本源流，说一个清楚，丝毫也不能含混的。”祥呈被他这一问，倒闹得毛骨悚然。说也不好，不说也不好，只得吞吞吐吐地答道：“这事说真了，也瞒不得老世叔。当日世叔在这里做巡抚，也知道那武备学校的情形。”瑞方插嘴道：“我不知道，你不要胡拉扯，倒是怎么一桩事情？”祥呈道：“当年庄中堂办这学校，规模设备，全是好极了。只是有一样欠缺，不知怎么，竟会将那排满革命的邪说，传染到这校中。因此一校的学生，除去几个学有根底、心地明白的，其余几乎全染了这宗恶习。最可恨便是李天洪那一镇，听说内中的军官，十个之中倒有八个是靠不住的。所以，晚生不敢将这镇的人拨与老世叔，怕的是他们到了四川，不但不能替国家出力，反而同那些野蛮人民勾搭在一处，那时可就危险极了。晚生纯是一番好意，老世叔千万不可误会。”瑞方正颜厉色地问道：“你这话太蹊跷了！老中堂在日，事事谨慎。这湖北如果有了革命党，他老人家决不会听其传染到学校。况且当日我也在这里，从不曾听见有这种风声。你这话是从何而起呢？或者是近年你们这些文武大员，诸事放任，不知检点，因此肘腋之间，任其乱党横行，竟至传染到军界中。事到临期，反而归过于老中堂，未免太不合情理了。你要知道，我此次来，原是奉旨授以兵权。湖北的军头，我本可以随意调遣。如今同你商量，乃是尊重你的职权，你不要误会我是有求于你。”祥呈挨了一顿训斥，心里很不高兴。自己寻思，我原是好意护卫你，你倒把罪过加在我头上，世界上哪有这样不知好歹的人？有意同他顶撞几句，一者他是钦差，二者又是老长辈。也罢，他既不领情，我不免使点手段，耍笑他一回。想到这里，仍然和颜悦色地答道：“老世叔责备的甚是，将来晚生必要格外细心。目前世叔立等着带兵入川，无论如何，晚生必选择得力军队，不日便咨送过来，决误不了启节之用。”瑞方见他这样驯顺，自以为将祥呈拍住，便也随风转舵。说老世兄既肯这样帮忙，兄弟还有什么说的。但不知你何时可以送过来？祥呈道：“老世叔启节的前两三日，决然可以送到。但不知世叔在湖北住的日期多少？”瑞方想了想，自己久在湖北，也徒然是同他们怄气。原想在这里替他们疏解军队，看这情形，也犯不上多此一举。便对祥呈说：“不过十日，我就要起身的。你赶紧预备，不要误了我的行期，那就好极了。”祥呈道：“世叔自请万安。晚生回衙，一刻也不停留，挑选好了，便送过来。”他一壁说着，便起身告辞。瑞方只送了两三步，才到花厅门外，就止步不送了。 祥呈上轿回署，心里是越想越气：好大的钦差，骄傲到这个样子！不要忙，我自有法子对付你，也叫你知祥大帅不是好缠的。他回来，先到上房用饭。七姨太太问长问短，问他可曾替张豹疏通好了？祥呈没有好气回道：“你们妇人家，怎么啰唣。张豹有病，他不会自己去请假！这一点小事，也必得麻烦我吗！”七姨太太从来不曾受过这样顶撞，如今真是出乎意外，立刻粉面通红，将吃饭的碗，向地下一掼，啪啦摔了一个粉碎。用纤手指着祥呈骂道：“你是什么东西？敢冲着我发脾气！我叫你办的事，你忘在脖子后头，还说我麻烦你。我知道你是讨厌我，借题发挥。咱们索性说开了吧，你做你的总督，我回我的老家，各不相干，免得碍你眼。”说罢一迭连声，叫丫鬟收拾行李：“今天过江，便乘船回上海。这总督衙门，一刻也住不得了！”又是哭又是喊，登时闹得乌烟瘴气，马仰人翻。丫鬟仆妇一大群，全围上来解劝，哪里劝得好。可怜祥呈吓得手足无措，饭也不顾吃了，又是作揖，又是请安，再再地赔不是，说：“你千万不要误会。我天大胆子，也不敢冲你发脾气。因为方才同钦差怄了一点气，将张豹的事也忘了。你问我，我说话太直一点，竟自把你招翻了。这实在怨我不是，请你不要生气。”祥呈这一解释，七姨太太气更大了，迎面啐道：“欺软怕硬的狗头！钦差同你怄气，你为什么不同钦差翻脸？却夹着尾巴回到家来，向老婆发作。难道我是应当给你消气的吗？”姨太太越闹越厉害，祥呈是不敢再开口了。其余的姨太太，全远远听着称愿，谁也不来管这闲事。丫鬟仆妇们，更是无法排解。 后来还是有个机灵女仆骆大嫂想起，这场风潮，非把庄夫人请来，无论是谁也解排不了。她便偷偷出来，吩咐套好马车，自己坐上，到张公馆去接庄夫人。庄夫人听说，不敢怠慢，系上裙子，立刻乘车到督署来。骆大嫂搀着她一直来到后堂，高声喊道：“张太太来了。”祥呈正在发急，忽见庄夫人来到，真仿佛遇着救命恩人，立刻迎上去深深请安，说姐姐来得真巧，再晚一刻，就要出人命了。说也真怪，七姨太太一听庄夫人来了，立时止住哭叫，迎上前去，携了夫人的手，说道：“姐姐，我们今天见一面，再等后会了。”庄夫人捺着她坐下，说：“妹妹，你怎么又闹起脾气来？自己夫妻，因为两句闲话，哪里就值得这个样子？”七姨太太忙将方才的委曲，诉与庄夫人知道。夫人说：“这事全由我家而起，妹妹你这一闹，叫姐姐脸上如何转得开？妹夫已经受了钦差的气，回来又受你的气，你自己想想，这事可对吗？快不要再说了。”又笑向祥呈道：“大帅向来是最有涵养的，为何今天要发这大牢骚？闹得夫妻反目，却是何苦呢。快向我们妹妹说两句道歉的话儿，这事就过去了。”祥呈此时巴不得有这一句，他好下台。便真个过来，朝着姨太太笑道：“你不要生气了，是我说话不好听，你原谅一点吧！”姨太太指着他冷笑道：“今天看在姐姐面上，便宜你这一回。下次如再这样，休想我饶你。”祥呈见姨太太消了气，好像囚徒遇着大赦一般，登时欢喜得手舞足蹈，又向庄夫人再三致谢。 庄夫人见他们的事完了，又想起自己的事来，向祥呈道：“大帅今天去见钦差，可曾替外子请过假吗？他实在有病，并非是有意规避。”庄夫人这一问，闹得祥呈张口结舌，半晌答不上来。忸怩回道：“姐姐不要见怪，方才你妹妹也说过了，我今天同瑞方怄了很大的气，武臣（张豹字）请假，也忘记了同他说。好在全有我一人担当，你们只要补进一份请假的禀帖，钦差不答应，全有我呢。”庄夫人再三称谢，说：“只要大帅应起来，这事就好办了。但不知大帅为什么同钦差怄气？”祥呈随将瑞方要调动军队的话，向庄夫人说了。夫人一听，不觉触动灵机，计上心来。忙问钦差要多少兵？大帅是怎样对他说的？祥呈道：“依他的意思，要想带一协呢（按彼时一协即现今一旅）。始而他叫李天洪随他去，是我阻拦住了，他很不高兴，便朝着我说了许多闲话。我想这宗不讲情理的人，也不犯上再拿好心对他，乐得顺水推舟，给他一个苦头尝尝，也算替武臣出了这口怨气。姐姐请想，我这主意可对吗？”庄夫人笑道：“大帅的打算，果然不错。但不知你想用什么手段？拨给他什么兵？不知可令愚姐少参帷幄吗？”祥呈道：“我正待同武臣商议，姐姐来了，也可以代表他——这件事，必须从武臣镇里拨兵给他，最好要挑那长于捣乱的军官。预先安排好了，等送出他湖北境外，设法摆布他。他此次来，是奉摄政王面谕，叫他驻在哪一省，便向哪一省筹饷。等他出了湖北境，尚未到四川省城，便叫这些军官士卒同他索饷，看他有什么法子处置。至不济也要叫他为难受气，折一折他那骄傲的性儿。”庄夫人鼓掌道：“大帅的妙计，果然一点不差。这样做成圈套，半路上怕不急出他的原形来吗？但是这统兵长官，必须物色一个善捣乱的，而且是我们的心腹，然后才能胜任愉快。”祥呈道：“这件事自然得同武臣商量。姐姐回去对他说，叫他早早安排下一个。可得严守秘密，千万莫放出半点声气。要不然，叫钦差知道了，说我们有意耍弄他，他参上一本，我们吃不了，还得兜着走吧。”庄夫人道：“这一层大帅自请放心，我们不动声色，这事就办好了。至于那个军官，不必知照武臣，愚姐心意中，已经有了适当人物，这件事非他不能胜任。”祥呈忙问是谁？庄夫人道：“就是第十二镇二十四协四十八标的标统杨得胜。此人心地最贪，性情又最躁，而且有一种傲上的毛病。无论多大的上官，他也敢吹胡子瞪眼睛，胡闹一阵，因此营盘里给他起一个绰号，叫野山羊。他那种桀骜不驯，就可想而知了。叫此人去，一定够瑞方受的。大帅请想，这个人可恰当吗？”祥呈连说好好，就是用他。事不宜迟，我今天便给十二镇去公事，明天便叫武臣详复，早早给他送过去，省得他再催。庄夫人摇头道：“公事可以早预备，营头却不可早送过去。必待临时，我们自有对待方法。”祥呈道：“既然这样，诸事全劳姐姐费神，我就完全委托你了。”庄夫人深深鞠躬道：“谢大帅的委，但不知领多少薪金？多少公费？”祥呈笑道：“薪金六百，公费四百，共合一千，不算少了吧。”庄夫人又谢了，方才告辞而去。 回到公馆，将上项情形，对张豹说知。张豹欢喜得谢天谢地，说老天爷有眼，也该报应着瑞方了。立刻派护兵将杨得胜请至公馆，有要事面商。杨得胜听说统领叫他，即时骑快马跑来。张豹将他让至密室，把左右家人一律屏退，低言悄语地同他商议。杨得胜回道：“这事统领可拿得稳吗？目前标下已经三个月未发饷，自官长以至弟兄，个个全有很多的账，若不将饷发清，只拨给一笔开拔费，还是走不了。何况统领的意思，连开拔费都不肯发，一切推到钦差身上。我们长途跋涉，随他出去，到临他也不发，我们又敢把钦差怎么样呢？”张豹道：“老弟自管放心，我决然不能诳你。钦差这次出京，从度支部领了二十万现款，专为作兵饷用的，区区两千余人，还愁没有饷吗？”杨得胜道：“既然这样，统领何不请钦差，就此把我们一标的饷完全发清。不要说随他到四川，便是海角天涯，我们也不嫌远。”张豹见得胜愈逼愈紧，知道这事不同他说开了，简直没有磋商余地。便附在得胜耳边，唧唧咕咕，不知说了些什么。得胜听罢，面上略现出笑容来，说：“其实标下也倒不在乎，只是三个营官、九个哨官，不把他们买好了，临时如何能调得动？只要统领将款预备好了，到临时只给一个迅雷不及掩耳，动员令一下，即刻就拔营起马，他们就是想反抗，也来不及了。何况当时许给他们，自出了湖北境，钦差便发给饷款，料想那些弟兄，也没得说。统领请想，这个法子可好吗？”张豹拍着得胜的肩头，说你不愧是老行伍，果然想得周到，这样办去，是再也妥当不过了。你候一候罢，我马上便把款拨给你。张豹立时签了一纸支票，也不知是多少钱。得胜笑着接过去说：“统领自请放心，我自有法子对付那一班弟兄。只是调遣的公事，千万不可早发。比如钦差明天走，只要今天一早将公事送过去，便来得及。若是太早了，倒许出旁的枝节。”张豹点头会意，得胜自去安置一切。 此时瑞方朝思暮盼，只待祥呈将军队的名册移送过来，便可定日起程。哪知左等也不见，右等也不来，直等了四五天，还不见一点动静。他可真急了，却又不肯自己到总督衙门去催，怕丢了他钦差身份。便派万观察有镒，前往询问。回来对瑞方说：“祥帅正在加意检选。太急促了，恐怕军队不整齐，招钦差生气。说再候两三天，一定可以咨送过来。”瑞方拍着桌子骂了一顿，说：“皇上家每年耗费数百万饷银，等到用着时候，却一个挑不出来，这还成什么公事？足见他们是克扣军饷，那些军人因为不发钱粮，所以谁也不肯告这奋勇。再等三两天，如果还不送来，我便硬派李天洪，带四营人马随我前住，也用不着他咨送了。回头我便预备折子，将他这情形详细奏明摄政王，看他这总督还能做到几时！”大家见瑞方这样生气，只好婉言相劝，说大帅不必心焦，料想祥呈绝不敢误事。再候两天，他必能送过来的。哪知又候了两天，依然不见动静。瑞方真等不及了，只得将李天洪叫上来，同他商议，说：“你如肯带兵随我入川，我必专折保奏，补你四川提督。你随我辛苦一趟吧。”在瑞方这样说，自以为必能欣动天洪，随自己到四川护卫。哪知天洪此时，早已另有打算。他不慌不忙地对瑞方回道：“大帅此番入川，沐恩本当随驾伺候。只是目前实在不能脱身，因为这十三镇的人，对祥帅同张豹，恶感甚深，是沐恩在这里竭力调和着，不至出什么意外。如随大帅同走，在势不能全带了去，所余的人，不定哪一天就许闹乱子。一者糜烂地方，二者他们一定要奏参沐恩训练无方，连大帅的面子上也不好看。大帅如果急于起马，沐恩可以去催他们，今明日必可将军队咨送过来，决不至误了大帅的行期。”瑞方听他推脱，心里虽然不快，面子上却也无话可驳，只得派天洪再去催促。天洪走了一趟，回来低声对瑞方说了几句。瑞方点头会意，说这法子很好，料想他们不敢再迟延了。你先回去，省得担嫌疑，我自会如法办理，天洪去了。 第二天，果然还不见有什么动静。瑞方早备好了一封咨文，派人送与祥呈。一面叫李虎臣到江轮公司，定好了一只极大的江轮，预备先开往湖南，再由湖南沂江入川。并吩咐家人，将行李全打好了，今天吃过晚饭，便上船开行。及至日落西山，还不见祥呈有复文到来，瑞方可真气了，拍着桌子，大骂祥呈：“你真是有意同我作对！不要忙，我早晚总得同你见一个上下高低！”气得连晚饭也不曾吃，草草地收拾了收拾，便带着家眷，到江边去乘船。瑞方坐在轿子里，远远地望去。此时正是七月中旬，皓月当空，却见江岸旌旗招展，人喊马嘶，仿佛是有许多兵马在那里布阵。瑞方见了，不觉一惊，心说这是从哪里来的？难道黑夜之间，还在这里操演不成。正在狐疑，轿子已到江边，轻轻放下。瑞方才待出轿，却见张豹、李天洪，全穿着军服，系着战裙，挎着指挥刀。另外还有一个军官，也是这样装束，一同迎至轿前，深深请安。口称大帅在上，职镇等在此恭送。瑞方此时，正在气恼，不觉冷笑道：“你们送我做什么？本部堂不敢劳驾，快快回去，伺候你们的大帅吧。”张豹忙躬身回道：“大帅请息雷霆之怒，容职镇禀复下情：自从大帅带兵的公文行至督署，祥帅一刻也未敢怠慢，即时派职镇检阅军队，挑选劲旅。两镇的军官士卒，由职镇随同祥帅，逐一看过了。昨天才由各营中，拔选了一标年力富强、曾受过陆军教育的军人。今天一早，又发放军装，委派统带，诸事齐备，才敢下动员令，送至大帅行辕，听候调遣。没想到大帅急于起马，已经等待不及。早间公文行至督署，祥帅为此事急病了，现尚卧床未起，特派职镇急速将公事备妥。本想先请大帅简阅，只因时间短促，实在来不及了。万分无奈，这才追至江边。随职镇来的这个军官，便是标统杨得胜，你快过来叩见大帅。” 瑞方在月光之下，见得胜仪表英挺，真有大将的气度，心里又不觉转怒为喜。忙说道：“杨标统也起来，在这荒野之间，何必行此大礼！”得胜立起身来，李天洪又过来回道：“现在文武僚属，俱在江岸给大帅送行。前面已经搭好了彩棚，请大帅暂在棚中休息片刻，再定行止吧。”瑞方点点头。此时张、李两个镇统，挎刀在前引路，杨得胜同李虎臣在左右随侍，一同走至棚前。各官员已经迎出来，将瑞方肃至棚中坐下。代表祥呈的，仍然是王彭年。瑞方心里虽不自在，但张豹已回明祥呈染病在床，自己也不好再说什么，只问杨得胜道：“你这一标，统共有多少人？平日可曾训练过？”得胜道：“回大帅，本标是从两镇中挑选的，名为三营，其实不止三营，总计起来，约有两千上下。至于这些士卒，全经训练过三四年之久，而且军械整齐，一律是德国三八式的后膛快枪。就是开至阵前，实地见仗，也可望胜利。若伺候大帅入川，平息匪类，更可以胜任有余了。”瑞方听了，十分满意。转脸对张豹道：“这倒难为你了，本部堂从前还疑心是祥帅有意同我为难，这样看起来，正是你们实事求是，格外细心。你回去见了祥帅，要替我多多致谢罢。”张豹诺诺连声。 杨得胜又请示道：“大帅已经定下船只，预备沂江入湘，再转四川。如今这两千人马，只能起旱，若是坐船，实在没有这许多江轮。请示大帅，还是怎样办法呢？”一句话提醒了瑞方，倒有点踌躇起来。思索了片刻，说：“你们既是本部堂的亲军，怎好离我左右分路而行呢？这样吧，你们既能起旱，本部堂也能起旱，咱们沿着江岸，慢慢地陆行。当此秋日，天气逐渐清凉，沿途上枫叶豆花，