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Chapter 98 The ninety-fifth chapter is all over the sky, it is difficult to fly with wings pierced, and the master soldier of private training takes a head-on blow

Shiyi got all kinds of opportunities, and thought that he would be successful when he came to Yuelitang this time, and then discussed with Ming Tianyi, who said: "I am a low-class artist, how can I be assigned to Miss Wang as a teacher? This is too serious, I really can't bear it." Tong Qitai laughed from the side and said: "Don't be hypocritical, many princes and princes Baylor worshiped under your door in the Manchu Qing Dynasty, and you never rejected anyone, so why fight for this Wang? What about Miss?" Called Tiandao: "You don't know, we are used to serving the princes and lords of the Manchu Qing Dynasty, so we don't have anything to say. As for the gentlemen of the Republic of China, I have never served them before, so how dare they lightly accept disciples?" Shi Yi Said: "Dean Tong and I are both officials of the Republic of China. Aren't we good friends? Why are you so stubborn?" Calling Tiandao: "You and Dean Tong are elegant people, so it's a different matter. Chairman Wang He is a leader of the Democratic Party, and his ideas are fundamentally opposed to ours, so how dare I show closeness to him?" Tong Qitai said with a smile: "You don't have to refuse anymore, you agreed to this matter, and you are directly helping the Secretary-General. Indirectly, it is helping the President, and your future has a lot to do with it, so you just agree." Rui Ziyin also tried his best to persuade him, saying: "This is just for fun, what are you talking about, master and apprentice? You just agree, and in the future I am the one who plays the flute, and I am the one who talks about the opera, and you can point out a few lines and it will be done, do you still have to teach me by hand?" Everyone agreed with this statement, and there is nothing in the sky to refute.But he finally put forward another condition and asked Shi Yi to approve it.He said: "The elder Qingcheng in this temple, because he wants to renovate the Arhat Hall, he repaired all the cracked and incomplete parts of the gold on the five hundred Arhats. More than 5,000 yuan. The monk originally asked me to make an agreement with Taobeile, but the money has not been allocated yet, the house has been cleared, and Taobeile also fled to Tianjin. I still have a disease in my heart, but fortunately Master Liang doesn’t care about it Just a little money, if you just write something in the monk's fate book, my wish in this life will be over from now on. This is a matter of immeasurable merit, I think Mr. Liang will definitely agree." Shi Yi laughed and said: "You Should have said it long ago, why wait until today?"

In the early morning of the next day, Shi Yi passed on the word, asking the monk to prepare a table of vegetarian banquets and send out invitations.The first host and guest was Speaker Wang, the second was Mrs. Wang, the third was Ms. Wang, the fourth was Dean Tong, the fifth was Rui Ziyin, the sixth was Tan Xinpei, and the seventh was Dean Tong’s flute master Mr. Ren, the eighth is Qingcheng, the elder of this temple.Shiyi prepared a check for 100,000 yuan in advance and delivered it to Qitai.Another 5,000 yuan was opened, which was reserved for monks.When Qingcheng heard that Mr. Liang was entertaining guests, he ordered to prepare a vegetarian table, and immediately passed on the word to Su San, the cook who specializes in vegetarian dishes, to specially process and add ingredients, substituting meat for vegetarian dishes.Bird's nest, shark's fin, steamed carp, pocket duck, all kinds of famous dishes in Beijing must be made with vegetarian ingredients, just like meat.In particular, the soup made with mushrooms, mushrooms and soybeans is more refreshing and palatable than the three-in-one soup of chicken and duck.The old monk went to Shiyi's courtyard early on to arrange everything, and displayed the tables, chairs and furniture under the banana tree. When the sun was setting and the moon was rising, and the breeze was coming, he would drink lightly here. Very different taste.Tong Qitai arrived first when he was young, Shi Yi dragged him into the secret room, the two talked secretly for a quarter of an hour, Wang Litang and his wife also arrived.Seeing Shi Yi's face, the lady first asked: "Uncle Liang, have you finished the task I entrusted to you?" Shi Yi smiled and said: "I treat you today just to introduce you, and Boss Tan has already agreed. Dump your pockets and suitcases and tell Miss the mysteries of Kunqu opera completely, and you just wait to be taught." After hearing this, Miss Wang was so happy that she danced her hands and feet and thanked her repeatedly.Li Tang said in a reprimanding tone: "You child is too crazy! When you meet Uncle Liang, you don't say a word of seriousness, but pester him with these unimportant things. Aren't you afraid of making jokes?" Mrs. Wang saw Li Tang reprimanded her daughter, feeling very uncomfortable, and said: "Kunqu opera is also a kind of art, and it is not something for nothing. Didn't you bring your child to Xishan for entertainment? Don't you have to press her head?" Studying English and learning arithmetic, is that considered serious?" Chitai heard that the tone of the couple was trying to raise an argument, so he hurriedly tried to divert it, and called Tianzi Yinquan from the west room to introduce him, saying: "This is Boss Tan, this Mr. Rui plays the flute for him, and he is also a master of Kunqu opera.” On the one hand, he said to Tan Rui: “This Miss Wang is obsessed with art, and I admire you two very much. Study each other and teach each other." Jiaotian bowed respectfully to Ms. Wang, called her, and said to Qitai: "Ms. Wang studies Kunqu opera for learning, how can she be compared with us artists? Our kind of Kunqu opera It’s nothing more than cheating people to eat.” Miss Wang said: “Boss Tan, you must not say that, I still want to worship you as my teacher!” Old Tan said aloud, “Miss, I’m afraid it’s impossible for you to say that. My fodder for Tan Xinpei? We artists really want to ask the lady for advice, but we are afraid that the lady will disdain to teach you. You are so polite now, we can't afford it." They were humble here, and Shi Yi interjected: " You don't have to be polite, this is just casual research, and there is no need to assign a teacher to an apprentice. It is best to ask Boss Tan Tongrui to go to the lady's apartment for an hour of on-the-spot teaching from tomorrow. It will definitely work like this, and it will take a month Miss Wang's Kunqu opera learning has naturally improved." Miss Wang applauded, and Jiaotian was humble again and again, and then she stood up and said a few polite words to Jiaotian, and then she had nothing to say.

Everyone sat at the table and drank, because the weather was hot, and the old brand beer and Yuquanshan soda specially prepared in the temple were all chilled thoroughly. Everyone drank it, and it was naturally very delicious.Li Tang asked Shi Yi: "You just came from Beijing, do you have any special news?" This sentence really hit the drumbeat.Shi Yi took a sip of wine, shook his head, let out a long sigh, and said, "Don't talk about it, it will be unpleasant." Li Tang said in surprise, "What is sad? Then you have to talk even more. If you are sad, why don't we let us be sad?" Shi Yi said: "Tian Jianlong from the social group is always the closest to your party, you know this person, right?" Li Tang said: "I know, but I have not yet I met him before. I heard from my friends that he is a promising young man, but his temperament is a bit more violent. What do you mention about him? Could it be that something happened to him?" Shi Yi said: "How can there be? The accident happened, and the law enforcement department shot him!" Litang was shocked when he heard it.But on the face of him, he still showed his composure and said: "It's a pity that he is young. But he must have his own way, and he can't just blame the law enforcement department." Shi Yi said: "It is said that he carried a bomb into the ambush. He came to Beijing to murder important people in power. In fact, these words may not be reliable. Probably his purpose of coming here is to sabotage the general election. Who would have thought that this matter would be a taboo for the power, and it would be a good thing when it happens. Of course, there is no way out." These few words pierced Litang's ears deeply, and the color of his face changed a little.But Qitai interjected on purpose, saying: "Sabotaging the general election is not such a big crime?" Shi Yi shook his head and said, "How can you know the inside story. Mr. Xiang himself may not have any ambitions to fight, but Which of the warriors under him doesn't want to climb the scales of the dragon and attach the wings of the phoenix, so as to expand the prestige of the Beiyang faction. How can we just let the president's position be handed over to others? We are not protecting Xiang Gong, thinking that the official president is not him No, we are for the sake of the overall situation, so that the local people will not suffer in the future. If Xiang Gong, who belongs to this seat, can naturally calm the soldiers of the whole country, and there will be no more disputes. Otherwise, if there is a change in the future, Beijing and Tianjin will Convenience is bound to cause chaos, and even we all cannot avoid it." Although Shi Yi's words contained a bit of intimidation, they were true in the end.Because of the current situation, no matter who has seen it, if the official president does not choose Zicheng, there will be great chaos, and the warriors in the provinces must not let it go.Even countries in the East and West, in order to maintain peace, use the vast shopping mall in East Asia to develop their own businesses, and they will never want China to have civil strife again.Therefore, for the official president of Xiangzicheng, there has been a tacit understanding invisibly. Even if others want to fight, measure their own strength and take a look at the international situation, and they will naturally retreat in the face of difficulties.However, human rights thoughts and desires for leaders cannot be completely stopped. I know that I cannot be elected, but I am absolutely unwilling to let people I oppose be elected openly.We must use all kinds of methods and methods to carry out their sabotage ideas against the other party. This was a situation that was brewing before the general election at that time.However, Xiangzicheng has many minions and fierce means. He has already set up a net to arrest all those who oppose it and lose their freedom. Even if you want to oppose or destroy it, it will be impossible.Apart from obediently choosing him, there is no other way to go.Wang Litang is a very smart person, can't he see this situation?When he came to Xishan, he intended to sell for a price, not against it at all.Seeing Shi Yi entertaining guests today, before the banquet, he said this set of words again, and he understood it more thoroughly.He tried his best to face Shi Yi, saying: "Not only the second brother thinks this way, but even the younger brother thinks the same way. According to the younger brother, the members of our party should vote unanimously for the election, but there are still a few of them who insist on dissenting. I argued with them a few times, and simply ran to Xishan to escape for a while, so as not to get angry with them again." Hearing what he said, Shi Yi took advantage of the situation to persuade him, saying: "Your brother understands the general situation, and I I know it very well. Even when Xiang Gong mentioned it, he admired your vision, which is different from other Democratic parties. However, in the affairs of the world, there are always people without heads, and birds without wings. Now there are three or four hundred people in the Senate and the House of Representatives. Party members, because there is no leader, are like a mess. If there is not a well-qualified and famous leader in the front, there will be a mess and a mess when voting in the future. If there is an accident at that time, it will not only harm the overall situation. Even the face of your party is not good. I think the responsibility of the leadership must be personally visited by my brother. Although the weather is hot, who cares about the overall situation of the country? Can you still get rid of this hard work?" Li When Tang heard him expose it, he was in a dilemma.Saying to go back to Beijing immediately would be too much of a loss of identity, and one cannot bear to be frightened by other people's empty words; if not to go back to Beijing immediately, one would be afraid of leaving such heavy traces. .He had no choice but to think of an excuse, saying: "My younger brother doesn't have the slightest prejudice. If you want to talk about my qualifications, in this party, I can't command them. But since the second brother has mentioned this, of course it is obligatory. But younger brother This time I brought my family to Xishan, not just to avoid the summer heat, but because of your little niece, who developed some symptoms of lung disease in the spring. The doctor said that she must live in a place with good air in Xishan for two months. This illness will naturally recover. It’s only been half a month since I’ve been here, how can I just go back? Sooner or later I’ll discuss it with her mother and daughter. If the youngest daughter agrees to return to Beijing, we can leave immediately. As for the weather, what’s the matter? What about the relationship?" Hearing that he put the responsibility on his daughter, Shi Yi thought to himself that you are going to be fooled, and within five days, I will definitely make it impossible for you to live here.Everyone drank happily and ate until the moon came up before removing the leftovers.Qingcheng brewed more than ten bowls of Biluochun, one bowl for each person, and sipped tea under the banana tree.Qitai held Litang's hand and talked on the ground under the tree outside the Moon Gate, not knowing what they were talking about.Ms. Wang here must be annoying Ruizi singing the flute. She wants to sing a Kunqu opera so that she can ask Boss Tan how it is good or bad. Everyone agrees.Rui Ziyin took out the flute, and Mr. Ren was also willing to join in. The two of them played both flutes together, and Ms. Wang sang a section of "Garden Tour", and Boss Tan applauded loudly.After singing, I must ask Tan Ruiren and the other three for advice.The three of them each had their own set of arguments, and Miss Wang listened, feeling unheard of and indescribably happy.When he was young, Litang and Qitai also came back holding hands, Litang had a joyful look on his face.

Everyone talked for another hour, and Litang left first with his wife.Shi Yiqitai waited to see him outside the gate, while Qingcheng clasped his hands on his chest outside the gate, standing on duty for Speaker Wang, and did not come in until he was far away.Qitai smiled slightly at Shiyi, and only said "Qian can pass through the gods", and the two looked at each other, understanding each other.Shiyi came back, sat on the bamboo chair, smiled at the monk Qingcheng: "Old abbot, you are a supernatural power, you are a prophet, you can figure it out, is there any happy event in the temple today?" Qingcheng folded his palms and said: "Amitabha, poor The monk was meditating in the meditation hall last night, and suddenly saw the five hundred arhats in the temple, all of them were shining brightly, which shocked the poor monk. I hurriedly asked the Jialan of the temple, and according to him, it was Wenqu Xingjun in the sky who wanted to marry the arhat. A kind of good fortune, adding a layer of special brilliance to their Zhang Liujin, isn't it a very happy event?" Everyone laughed, especially Boss Tan, who laughed extraordinarily vigorously, and said to the old monk: " Wenqu Xingjun is right in front of you, please come quickly and thank you." Qingcheng bowed deeply to Shiyi with a smile and asked, "Wenqu Xingjun, from the day I came to our temple, the little monk has seen it clearly, and I have to wait until today. Recognized, I don’t need to spend my life in the open space.” Shi Yi laughed loudly, and said: “You really have you, you are indeed worthy of being an eminent monk, and my five thousand yuan was finally not spent on the open space.” Finished. He took out a check from his pocket and said, "This is a check for 5,000 yuan from the Bank of Communications. Take it, and all the golden colors on the 500 arhats will be seen as new. If the number does not match, it will be almost the same. You can go to my house in Beijing and make up for it.” The monk took the check respectfully, and kept saying: “Amitabha, great compassion, the light of the Buddha shines everywhere, the light of the Buddha shines everywhere, this little monk’s ten-year wish, Unexpectedly, the meritorious deeds were completed in an instant. Finally, with a little sincerity, the star king in the sky was touched, and he formed a bright bond with my Buddha. It is not in vain that the little monk prayed hard day and night for ten years. The six golden bodies can appear in the Great Thousand World again." He thanked Shi Yi, and thanked these people next to each other.Jiaotian said: "You have to start the work quickly, and we will come to pay our respects when the consecration is in autumn." Qingcheng agreed repeatedly, saying: "Before the consecration, we must send out invitations all over the temple, and none of the benefactors of this temple, Tanyue Falling down, I have invited all of you, so I can commend Mr. Liang for his merits." Shi Yi said: "This little thing is worth commending! You go and do your business, we don't need you to serve us here." Qingcheng Rufeng Seeing the decree of amnesty, he hurriedly put his palms together in salute, and then slowly retreated.Qitai said: "Li Tang has promised to try his best to unblock, but he also asked for a condition, that is, after the president is elected, he must not dissolve the Congress, and he also asked that he should not hate the MPs of the Populist Party. I fully agreed to these two things. , when you meet him in the future, if you can make up a few more words, the matter will be settled. Now it is time to proceed to the second step, which is to quickly urge him to Beijing. Since he arrived in Beijing, he has been surrounded by the air around him. Worrying that he doesn't try his best. In fact, the congressmen of their own party are also looking for him to discuss ideas, and he just goes along with the flow and makes this ready-made favor. There is Tian Jianlong's example in front, I think they have the courage to dare not He openly opposes the general election. But he is one of the leaders, no matter how he looks, he has to deal with him, and save him from secretly obstructing and sabotaging it." Shi Yi nodded and said yes, and secretly discussed with Tan Rui and the two of them how to promote the establishment When Tang returned to Beijing, all the steps were arranged.

In the afternoon of the next day, Tan Rui and the two went to the Chairman Wang's residence together.When the young lady heard that they were coming, of course she gave her a special welcome. The table was filled with special watermelon steamed fruit, lotus root and lotus pods, high-quality cream pastries, Western biscuits, real Luzon cigarettes, and Cannon Fort cigarettes.There is a fan installed in the passenger seat, and it is running at full horsepower.When Tan Rui came in, he was really flattered. Qi said: "Miss, why should you be so polite? We are here to ask her for advice, and she treats us so favorably, which makes us feel uneasy." Miss Wang said: "You two gentlemen are too serious. I think it's a godsend, that's why I met you two Kunqu opera masters, and my studies have improved day by day since then. If you are so polite, you will inevitably restrain each other, how can I have the nerve to ask you again?" While talking, Mrs. Wang also came out and said: "Boss Tan, you don't have to be restrained. We treat you as an artist, and it is not our intention if you want to follow the old rules." Tan Rui and the two listened to them talking like this Generous and refreshing, with the flavor of Qizhaimen.In the final analysis, the southerners evolved quickly, and it is really rare that they have learned to be so graceful after only a few days in Beijing.The two of them chose the best and the best, especially the secrets of the Kunqu opera, which were sung and composed, and played a lot.Their mother and daughter are also very understanding.After talking for two hours and chatting a few more gossips, I just went back to my apartment.

They still came on time the next day, and they came for three days in a row.After talking about art that day, Jiaotian suddenly said to Mrs. Wang and Ms. Wang seriously: "We are going back to Beijing tomorrow, and today we bid farewell to Mrs. Madam. When Mrs. Madam returns to Beijing in the future, we will go to the house to say hello "The young lady was enjoying her studies, when she suddenly heard him say that, she felt really indescribably unhappy.Suddenly asked: "Boss Tan, what do you mean you must return to Beijing?" Old Tan smiled and said: "My lady, you must know that we, as artisans, do not have the slightest freedom. At present, we will come to Xishan with Mr. Liang. It's just a sneak in, borrowing other people's money and power to enjoy a few days of leisure. In fact, during this break, the church meeting at the gate of the Beijing City Mansion has already been delayed by more than a dozen places. If the days are long and they don't go back to Beijing, these rice masters, Aren't they all offended? In the future, will there be a place for me in Beijing? In a day or two, there will be a hall in the presidential palace, and others can be perfunctory if they don't socialize. Only the presidential palace has always been The General Affairs Department ordered the passer-by. If you can’t resist the spread, the police will arrest you and fine you a fine, or a coolie. Miss, please think, can we bear it at our age? We have to rush back and deal with it first. An errand, to avoid any trouble and have to ask someone to clear it up, it will take a lot of trouble!" Miss Wang frowned and said: "According to what you say, I have only studied for three days, wouldn't it be a waste of all my previous efforts?" Old Tan deliberately made embarrassment He hesitated for a long moment before answering, "I've come up with an idea that can satisfy both sides, but I'm the only one who is strong. I'm afraid that's not what Miss means." Miss Wang said: "As long as you have an idea, you can call I will continue to listen to the lecture for another month, and I can do it no matter what.” Old Tan said: “It would be best if Miss can return to Beijing early, and your house and your house are very close to each other. Come to your house, wouldn’t it be possible to have both? Wouldn’t anyone’s business be delayed?” Ms. Wang applauded and said, “Excellent! Let’s do it this way. We will all go back to Beijing tomorrow. What do you think? "Tan Rui laughed and said: "Miss is so enthusiastic about art, she is diligent in learning and asking questions, it is really rare. Tomorrow Mrs. Wang is willing to return to Beijing, and we will all go all the way. It will be hard." Mrs. Wang also confessed frankly beside her, saying: "Let's go tomorrow. Tan Rui and the two returned to the apartment and told Shi Yi." That night, the three of his family held another joint meeting, and decided to stay for another day tomorrow. In the morning of the day after tomorrow, the three families got up together.The first day they called their personal house in Beijing and asked for a car to pick them up. At this time, Boss Tan didn't advocate riding a donkey anymore.If you ask why this is, please read it carefully, and you will naturally be able to understand it thoroughly.The monk Qingcheng of Biyun Temple, he is not an eminent monk, how could he come to the temple even if Liang Shiyi is not a prophet?In the nick of time, lead the monks of Hesi Temple to pick up this Wenqu Xingjun?How can there be such a coincidence in the world?The clue lies entirely in Lao Tan alone.To put it bluntly, it was just for five thousand silver dollars.When the three of them returned to Beijing, Liang Shiyi first went to the presidential palace to sell errands, and told Xiang Zicheng face to face, saying: "Wang Litang has been taken back to Beijing, and he promised to try his best to communicate with the members of the two houses. In any case, he cannot vote for others. Although Don’t dare to keep the audience unanimous, at least two-thirds can be achieved. The president will definitely be elected safely.” Hearing his report, Xiang Zicheng was very happy in his heart, and he comforted Shi Yi a lot.Shi Yi said a few more words to Zi Cheng in a low voice, Zi Cheng nodded knowingly, and said: "I will make them prepared, and they will never be plotted by the party." Shi Yi left.

Here, Xiangzicheng sent word that Lu Chengzhang and Wu Bixiang were called.When the two met the president, they stood aside and listened quietly to his orders.Zicheng said to them: "In two months, it will be the time for the general election. Do you two know what responsibilities you should bear?"Wu Bixiang was born as a literati, his mind was more sensitive, and he was quick to speak. He quickly bowed and replied: "The general election is related to the safety of the country. The Chinese and foreign people all agree that the official seat must be the president. Bixiang is a low-ranking official. It is not enough to participate in the general election, but it is Bixiang's responsibility to maintain the law and order of the two houses, clean up the order of the meeting, and strictly prevent the crackdown. , have a duty.” He said something respectful and respectful, thinking that the president must be applauded.But Zicheng didn't hum when he heard this, and looked at Lu Chengzhang again with his eyes.Lu Chengzhang was sweating profusely, and suddenly replied to the president: "Chengzhang is a warrior, and he knows how to serve the president. In the future general election, if any of these congressmen will not vote for the president, I, Lu Chengzhang, will swear against him at that time." Contradictory!" When he said this, he had an air of righteousness.Xiang Zicheng also laughed, and said: "You are worthy of being a warrior, and you have a bit of loyalty, but what you said is all nonsense. When they write votes, if they want to vote for someone, can they still be seen? Besides, no one can tell whether these people are willing to vote in the general election. You just want to monitor them, but where do you start? According to the law, at the time of the general election, there must be a quarter of the members of the two houses. More than three-thirds of the audience and two-thirds of the votes can be elected. Within these two months, if they have the intention of sabotaging, they don’t need to say who to vote for, but just sneak out of Beijing without saying goodbye. It’s going to be difficult.” When Lu and Wu heard what the president said, they suddenly realized in their hearts.They all replied: "The president asks Wanan. From today onwards, if a congressman is let go, the president is the only one to ask questions." Zicheng nodded and said, "I don't assign you any other responsibilities, you just ask him." I have watched these more than 800 congressmen, no matter who they are, they are not allowed to take a step away from Beijing before the general election is over. But we can't offend them with a coercive attitude, we just need to be soft and persuasive, and they will be trapped in a circle. If you can’t leave, this is a great achievement of the two of you. You don’t have to worry about the rest.” Lu and Wu led the order to go down, and Zicheng called again, telling Tianjin Police Chief Yang Delin to come and report to the mansion. , I have something important to tell you face to face.What exactly is the order?Let's put that aside for now.

However, since Wang Litang returned to Beijing, he silently recruited a few MPs from the same party. He usually spoke fiercely and wanted to show off, and some influential people held a secret meeting at his home.He first announced: "Now that the general election is imminent, of course we all have to act in unison. Who will vote for in the future must be planned in advance. To avoid temporary unevenness, it will give people outside the party an excuse. Do you think I’m wrong?” Before he finished his words, one person in the audience was already irritated. This person was a Shandong councilor named Xu Renjing, who was the head of the Shandong People’s Party branch and a revolutionary vanguard. .In the House of Representatives over and over again, Xiang Zicheng was always in trouble. If he wanted to follow him, he would have raised the case of impeachment long ago. Thanks to a few mature and prudent members of his own party who stopped him, but he was always resentful.Hearing what Wang Litang said today, he became very angry. He immediately burst into laughter and said, "Litang, shut up. You said that we should adopt a consistent attitude in voting in the general election. Is it up to you to say that? As for whether to vote Whose vote, since we are members of the Populist Party, of course we have to vote for the leader of the Populist Party, besides Mr. Sun, can we vote for another person?” Two people applauded in favor of his speech, but there were ten out of ten Eight or nine, they all bowed their heads and said nothing, especially Wang Litang, who refused to express any more.After a ten-minute pause, a member of the Sichuan Councilor surnamed Li sighed and said, "Brother Xu's words are not justified. Our party members elect the party leader, which is a matter of human nature. What else can we say? Whether we can be allowed to take this path is still a question.” Xu Renjing said: “Voting is our right of freedom, who would dare not allow it?” Before Representative Li could answer, Representative Zhang from Hubei rushed to say: "Mr. Xu, how do you say such nonsense? Xiangzi City has deprived us of our freedom long ago. If we don't elect him in the general election in the future, our lives may be in danger at that time. Why should we make a mistake because of one vote? How about sacrificing your own life?" Almost all the audience agreed with Mr. Zhang's remarks.Wang Litang also interjected, called Mr. Zhang, and said: "Zhuang Mou, your words are really clear. I admire you from the bottom of my heart. I asked everyone to talk today, and I also saw this. , and there is a report. At present, Xiangzicheng has made the final decision to fight for the general election. No matter what, he can make concessions. Only the president will not give in. Anyone who deliberately sabotages the general election will be treated as an enemy. Tian Jianlong was shot dead by the law enforcement department a few days ago. This is the reason. This matter can be hidden from others, but not brother Wen Xiongwei. If you don’t believe it, just ask him.” It turns out that Wen Xiongwei is a cross-party, he is a social A member of the regiment and a member of the Populist Party.Today Litang invites everyone to come, Tete invited him here, and his intention is to prove that Tian Jianlong's death was due to his opposition to the general election.Xiong Wei was holding back his complaints and wanted to vent his anger, so he told everyone about the situation of seeing the dragon's death.Who wouldn't be shocked by these MPs?Only Xu Renjing and a congressman named Ling from Henan named Ling Bing were the only ones who had the strength and indomitable spirit of the North.

After everyone finished, Xu Renjing asked Ling Bing to go to Zuiqionglin for dinner.The two of them drank a few glasses of wine, and they became more and more dissatisfied.Xu Renjing yelled that being in power is not a thing, even if you do everything possible, we have a certain rule, and we will definitely not vote for you in the future, let's see how you can subdue us?Is there really a crime of beheading?Ling Bing was more benevolent, a little calmer, and said in a low voice: "Brother, you have to lower your voice when you speak, because you have ears in defense." Renjing said: "Who is afraid of this? Are we not allowed to open our mouths?" The two ate After dinner, when you come out of the restaurant, you will feel that there are two people behind you, following wherever you go.Ling Bing felt that something was wrong with this matter, and he returned to the apartment without closing his eyes all night.I figured it out myself and I don't have a home here, so why take the risk?In the future, I will have to vote for Xiangzi City against my conscience.Mo Ruo thirty-six moves, walking is the best plan, but what else can they do to subdue me?Thinking of this, he put the important things in his handbag, and discarded all the other unimportant bedding and luggage.He had a car with a monthly subscription, but he didn't take it. He just hired a broken rubber car and went straight to the East Railway Station.

When I got to the box office, I was about to get off the car when I heard someone greet me.He looked back, and it turned out to be Xu Renjing.Ling Bingxin said, this is really a hero's opinion, and the two of us will go the same way.The two chatted for a while, and Ling Bing said, "You want to print the ticket, I will print it for you, don't you go to Tianjin?" Renjing nodded, Ling Bing walked into the box office alone, and took out ten yuan A banknote came, and he said to the conductor: "Tianjin second-class two." The conductor looked at him, smiled and shook his head, but refused to accept his bill.Ling Bing was very surprised, and said: "Are you here at the box office? Are you a ticket seller?" The conductor said with a smile: "Mr. is asking everything. This is the box office, and next door is the ticket seller." Ling Bing said: " If that’s the case, why don’t you sell it to me? Isn’t it time yet?” The conductor said: “It doesn’t matter if the time comes or not. Now, may I ask if you are a member of the two houses?” Ling Bing asked angrily: "What does the members of the two houses have to do with buying tickets? Could it be that the members of the two houses can take the bus for free without buying a ticket?" The conductor said with a dumb smile: "That's good if you dare, and we can save some procedures. To tell you the truth Our station master is ordered by the director, and the director is also ordered by the Ministry of Communications. Before the general election is officially held, none of the members of the two houses in the capital are allowed to leave Beijing. There are detectives stationed in the same box office on our platform, and they are on the sidelines Monitor, no matter which member of the lord, as soon as they enter the station, they will notify the box office, pointing out that so-and-so is a member of the two houses, and they are not allowed to sell tickets to him. They have already notified the person outside the door with you just now. You You are a representative of the people, you can’t be more holy, please think of us as a small employee, with the order of the bureau chief and the supervision of detectives, how dare you dare to sell you a ticket? I have to ask you to forgive me.” Ling Bing couldn't cry, couldn't laugh, he was angry and hated at the same time, and said to the conductor: "In this case, please invite the detective out, and I will negotiate with him." Before the conductor could answer, a person came out from the inside Come, tall and slender, wearing a white cloth suit, holding a straw hat in one hand, bowed deeply to Ling Bing, with a smile on his face, and said: "Mr. Ling, please sit in the back room, and I have a message for you." Ling Bing Seeing his air, he became very angry. He sneered and said, "Is this the detective sent by Shangfeng?" A small errand is not qualified as a detective. Just because I am on this platform according to the order of the superior, I am waiting for you to have a few words from the senators." Ling Bing said impatiently: "I don't have time to talk nonsense with you. I just ask you, for what reason, which law can be invoked to restrict my freedom of action?" Ma Rui was not in a hurry at all, and still replied with a cheerful face: "Mr. Understand? As a small employee, we are so bold that we dare not restrict your freedom of movement, just because Director Wu of the Police Department has handed over to you: In the future, if any members of the two houses buy a ticket to leave Beijing, you must politely persuade them to return. He I have never given us any reasons or invoked any laws. How can I answer Mr.’s question? If Mr. can understand the pain of our small errands, please avoid the grievances and return to your apartment for a while. Fortunately, the general election is approaching. , but only a month or two, after the end, you can leave Beijing whenever you want, why bother at this moment?" Although Ma Rui spoke in an extremely peaceful manner, there was a lingering sound behind the words. , It's a hypocritical rascal.Ling Bing has been in the Democratic Party for many years and has a very violent temper. How could he bear it, and before Ma Rui finished speaking, he shouted loudly: "Fart! What does leaving Beijing have to do with the general election? Even today's general election, if I want to leave Beijing, I will do my best." You can be free, let alone two months away? You can stop me if you want, but Wu Bixiang must come out in person and answer with me, otherwise you have to sell me a ticket, there is nothing else to say." Ling Bing said here, Xu Renjing He also ran in and shouted loudly: "I don't have time to talk nonsense with them." Going straight, he grabbed the conductor and said, "Get the ticket quickly! The bus has arrived. If you miss the hour when I get on the bus, you have to pay for the loss." Otherwise, we will meet in court." The conductor said: "You two are councilors and representatives of the people. You speak the law with your mouth and speak with your mouth. Each has its own authority and status in the law. Why do you two qualifications, can break into our box office? What right do you have to force us to sell you tickets? If I am a station conductor, without the permission of the House of Representatives, without wearing an attendance pass, I keep breaking into your House of Representatives, Can you allow me? You members of parliament speak on behalf of the people, but we want to break into the seat and force you to speak, can you agree? Everything in the world is the same, please put yourself in your shoes and think about it, It seems that there is no need to lose your temper at our box office." The conductor sent out such a big set of comments, and hurriedly stopped Xu Ling and the two, and after a short pause, Ma Rui didn't know where he went.许仁镜又瞪着眼问售票员道:“必须怎样你才能卖给我们票呢?”售票员道:“此事很好解决,我的顶头上司,就是本站站长,你二位只要问好了他,由他关照一句话,我即刻以车票奉上。”凌冰道:“站长在哪里?请他出来说话。”售票员笑道:“事不凑巧,站长因为有病,已经三天没到站上来了。你二位除非是家里去寻他,他住家在西四牌楼太平街,您一打听就知道了。”凌冰明白他这是托词,故意延宕,便向许仁镜使了一个眼色,两人悻悻地走出票房。凌冰叹了一口气,说:“咱们先回去吧,再想主意,大概这样走是走不脱的。”许仁镜虽憋着一肚子闷气,但是在站台上也无可发泄。

两人赌气跑回去,在凌冰寓所里,彼此又商议了多时。依着凌冰的意思,过几天等形势缓和缓和,再做脱身之计。偏偏这位许先生犯起半吊子脾气来,非即日出京不可。凌冰踌躇了多时,忽然心生一计,附在仁镜耳边,告以如此这般。仁镜鼓掌赞道:“妙计妙计!咱两人就是这样定规,白天还是分开的好,省得那一群疯狗注意。好在大通车得夜间九点才能开呢,咱们八点准在站台上见。等通车到了,偷偷地摸上三等,神不知鬼不觉就走了,管他有票没票。有什么饥荒,在车上再打去,横竖不过罚几个钱,怕他怎地?”凌冰点头称是。二人一东一西,在前门外闲遛了一回,又钻进小饭馆中,胡乱吃了些东西。在太阳将落时候,不约而同地一齐来到站台上。看门的向他要票,他们说是送朋友,也不曾十分阻拦,便放他们进站了。两人很是欣幸,以为这一进了站台,便可以毫无阻挡,又不敢公然在人群里站着,恐怕露了马脚,探头探脑,仿佛做贼似的,只拣背静去处躲避。好容易盼着车到了,车上的人如潮水一般向下涌。本来这边车是从关外开来的,人客非常之多,直等着车上的人全下净了,两人这才要上三等车。两条腿才跨进车门,只见四个青年壮汉也随着上来,一声也不言语,两个人架着一个,怎样上得车去,又怎样拉下车来。两人这一惊非同小可:莫非是有了架票的了,辇毂之下,不能够啊?再说不架头二等车上的人,为什么惠顾到三等呢?一定有缘故。仁镜沉不住气,便大声喊起来。他以为这一喊,路警必得过来,这四个强徒便不难就获。路警果然来了,不但路警,还有许多好事的客人,也都随着拢围上来。仁镜高声说:“这四个是强盗,他们是预备要行抢的。”哪知这四人丝毫也不畏惧,侃侃地说道:“诸位乡亲,诸位同胞,你们要听清了,我等四人是大中华民国的公民一分子,也可以说是大中华民国主人翁的一分子。他们这两位,上车要走的,一位是参议院议员,一位是众议院议员,当初全是我们全国同胞投票选出来的。我们选他等当议员,每月还给他数百元薪俸,这就好比是大家的雇佣,雇他等出来,替我们人民说话办事。假如当说的话,他们不说,当办的事,他们不办,却偏要忙里偷闲,到外埠去荒唐玩耍,请问诸位同胞,我们是否应当干涉他的行动?”众人听了,都一齐应道:“该当干涉!该当干涉!”尤其是路警更格外喊得起劲,四人又继续说道:“目前伏假已过,正在开会期间,请问诸位,他们当议员的是应该出席议事,还是应该到天津去玩?”众人又齐声应道:“该去议事,凭什么拿着民脂民膏,到天津去玩呢?”四人见得了大家同情,便益发轩眉吐气地说道:“诸位但知其一,不知其二。目前不止在议事期间,而且还有一个特大问题,急待他们议员解决。假如他们要全都甩手一走,这个大问题,便停止不能前进。这个问题一停止,便即刻把我们中华民国,陷入无政府状态,使我们四万万同胞,全都失其保障,这是再危险不过的一件事。我们不知道也罢了,既然知道,能够眼睁睁地放他们一走吗?”四人说到这里,便有好多嘴的,问他是什么大问题。四人很郑重地答道:“眼前快要选举正式总统了,这个正式总统,关系国家强弱、民众安危,乃是中华民国开宗明义的一个大关键。他们要稍有人心的,就应当体贴人民意中欲选之人,大家联为一致,早早宣布出来。静候到了临时,完成这一幕手续,以慰四万万同胞望治之心,这才不辜负大家选他们的本意。如今这两个议员心怀叵测,不前不后,单单在大选前一个月私自逃席,他们明明是想拆中华民国的台,明明是要陷全国同胞于危难之境,我等四人为义愤所激,这才出头阻拦。他们要稍有良心,就应当在我们大家面前谢罪,赶紧地回寓。从此洗心涤虑,专候到时投票选出正式总统,也算稍有一点悔悟之诚,我们也不便过为已甚。倘然他们执迷不悟,非走不可,我们大家以主人翁资格,说不得便要执行惩罚。就是官府也不能袒护议员,反加主人翁以如何罪状。请诸位评一评,我们的理由可充足,办法可正当吗?” 本来这时候,北京人民对于两院议员感情是非常恶劣。在大家眼光中,看这一班人直然是特殊阶级的高等流氓。这其间一面是由于项子城部下种种宣传,一面也是他们咎由自取。这些人初来北京,陷入这种繁华热闹骄奢淫逸的旋涡,有几个不是目迷五色?本来这些人,大约可分为三等。有一等是旧官僚,如今虽改造为议员,究竟他是开过眼、享过福的,倒还可以保持那官僚本色,并不显得怎样张狂。说真了,这也是历史的关系。在君主时代,北京这块地方,是显不出官来的。无论你在外省是多大的官,甚至督抚将军,只要进了北京城,立刻得偃旗息鼓,同平民一样。最大的限度,不过出门坐上一辆大鞍车,带上一个长班,其余任什么派头也没有了。尤其不敢花天酒地,在各班子下处胡闹。因为一座都察院中,几十位御史,全是睁大了眼睛,专等寻他们破绽的。你今天如果有越轨行为,明天就许有人递折子参你,所以他们不敢不特别谨慎。目前虽改民国,他们的本身虽也由官僚改为议员,到底旧日的风规,多少还要保存一点,不敢任性妄为。这是属于官僚一面的。更有一部分,是属于各地阔财主一面的。他们家里,多半是种着几百顷良田,做着几十桩大生意,银行里存着多少万现款,专凭这种财主资格,再加以金钱运动,居然当为国会议员。这种议员,虽说是来自田间,根本上却不明白什么叫稼穑艰难,民生疾苦,简直就是一种土头土脑变相的公子哥儿。他们从前,本不曾到过北京,如今贸然借着当议员的机会,奉天承运,来至都城。自己有买卖的,便住在自己商铺之中;没有买卖的,便住在大旅馆内。在未动身以前,早从原籍成千累万地汇现款到北京。他们自报到出席之后,不过借议员头衔作一种门面幌子,其实终日寻一班同乡——久在北京做事而又长于应酬的,请他们做向导。各就性之所近,寻觅乐境。比如好女色的,便驰骋于八埠之间,问柳寻花,彻夜不倦;好赌博的,便钻进各大俱乐部,不是竹战,便是番牌。再不然便是摇摊押宝,一掷千金,毫无吝惜;更有好听戏的,捧像姑的,捧坤伶的,五花八门,极意声色。这是属于财主议员一方面的。第三类是民党议员,这种议员多半是在满清时代奔走革命,曾经各省通缉,流亡海外,不敢回国的。在革命方面,或冒险实行,或口头鼓吹,总算有一点成绩。辛亥革命成功,党内为酬庸起见,当然变着方法,好叫他们当选议员。这些位先生,自经当选之后,来至北京,当然志气发舒,不可一世。本来也难怪,从前是私人,不敢进都城一步,如今一变而为民意代表,神圣不可侵犯的议员,抚今思昔,怎能不踌躇满志?再说从前当亡命时,饥寒困苦全都受过,如今当了议员,每月有几百元的进益,有时候还能得意外津贴,腰里既花花绿绿,富有金钱,眼前又纷纷扰扰,饱尝声色。俗语说得好:人非木石,孰能无情?这些位先生,也就不知不觉地走入娱乐一途。仿佛当前的快意,正为补偿以往的艰辛,及时行乐,乃议员分内应享的权利。什么打茶围,吃花酒、叉麻将、斗扑克、坐汽车、吸鸦片,一点一点地俱都学全,反倒把议员分内应尽的责任,抛到九霄云外去了。内中比较好一点的,也不过在议席上,各放几声空炮,原说不到国利民福,这是属于民党议员一方面的。自有这两派议员在北京活动,八埠居然成了不夜之城,平添了多少家南北小班,全是彻夜笙歌,专向这八百罗汉身上,做散花天女。请想北京商民的心理上,对于他们怎能再有好感? 偏偏许凌两位大议员,不先不后,一定要在这时候私自出京,他们以为既在夜间,侦探的耳目当然有所不及,况且不去打票,只偷偷地跳上三等车,等车一开,便成了鸿飞冥冥,弋人何慕。他们的打算,也要算周到极了,哪知暗地里人家的布置比他们还周密十倍呢。凭空竟会跑出四个青年来,从车上把他们拉至车下,又说了这许多冠冕堂皇、义愤填膺的话,居然激动了四面围观之人。阅者以为这真是公民一分子吗?天下哪有这样巧的事呢!原来这四个人,全是由天津调来,经杨德林训练好了的冒牌公民,专为对付八百议员而设。人的总数,一共在两千上下,就预备是两个人对付一个人。并且这些人多少全会一点武术,如果说翻了,这一帮溺于酒色的文弱议员,只有白擎着挨揍。揍完了,还没有地方去诉委屈。你道这些人是怎么一个来由呢?原来当赵秉衡督直时代,已经就立好了这种根基,他授意杨德林组织了一座健身社,专招募二三十岁体格健壮的青年,投到这个社中学习武术,特特请了两位名师,一位姓韩,一位姓张,全是赫赫有名的大武术家,软硬工夫,俱臻绝顶。德林是拿自己的帖,仿照从前旧书房请老夫子的仪式,将韩张两位先生请来,供馔下榻,每月每人送一百元束脩。这两位先生确是按部就班地教这两千人,果然两三个月工夫便大有进步。在彼时发起,不过秉衡授意,叫德林这样办,究竟宗旨何在?他也并未明白宣布,直到他死后,还是一个哑谜。德林也摸不清是怎么一回事,只因彼时秉衡提倡此事时,是明言奉总统面谕叫办的,德林当然奉命唯谨。后来项子城同秉衡闹意见,以为秉衡对于大选不肯帮忙,其实是冤枉极了。及至项子城将德林叫来,嘱咐他办理此事,德林当时很诧异:赵都督已经吩咐过了,怎么总统又吩咐二回呢?后来他恍然大悟,明白这是赵督体贴总统的意思,假传圣旨,叫这样办的,尚未向总统声明,自己更犯不上揭破了。只有总统怎样吩咐,我便怎样答应好了,他是多一句话也没肯说。回到天津,只有嘱托韩张两位教师加紧训练,又训谕一班学员好好用功,其余任什么也不曾说。究竟总统叫预备这一班人,有何用处?他既不敢请示,总统也未明言,这件事糊里糊涂就过去了。 直过了三四个月,快到大选之时,项子城这才把德林叫至北京。德林下车之后,即刻至公府报到。子城把他叫上去,德林请过安侍立在一旁,子城满面春风,让他坐下谈话,这是向来未有的礼数。因为德林本系侦探出身,子城在北洋时,他的身份也不过同督署的卫队武巡捕差不许多。每逢见宫保时,只有垂手侍立,连头也不敢抬。如今虽然做了天津巡警道(按:彼时职衔尚是巡警道,并无厅处名义),但是一到项子城面前,还不敢失了旧日的体制,所以垂手侍立,静听吩咐。如今子城竟破格让他坐下谈话,他哪里禁受得起,忙躬身回道:“卑弁是伺候总统的人,怎敢同总统对面坐下?这是有关体制的事,总统虽有命令,卑弁实不敢遵。”子城笑道:“你太拘谨了,如今中华民国,何必还拘那些无谓的官礼?况且你伺候多年,是有功之人,我也不能以待兵弁的礼待你,你只管坐下,咱们是私人谈话,非举行什么正式典礼,何必这样小心呢?”德林认定了,无论说什么,他也不肯坐下。子城见他这样拘执,也不便再加勉强,只得随他去吧。其实在子城认定了必须这样,才算是恭谨,才够得上是天字第一号的私人。从前的达官阔佬,不要说从前,甚至现在,你不要看他表面待人是何等的谦恭和气,仿佛丝毫官礼也不拘,其实是一面的,只准他对你做这种假面目,你却不要信以为真,便实地拿出平等面目,放肆起来。他当时也不说什么,转过脸来,便从旁的地方寻你的破绽,同你过不去,那你便是自寻苦恼。久在官场的全得知道这种秘诀,才不至到处荆棘。照我们这种野鹤闲云、自由惯了的人,只有一辈子不进官场,自然也就遇不着这种苦恼了。项子城见德林无论如何不肯坐下谈话,只得正式对他说道:“前几个月我叫你训练的那一部分人,早晚就用着他们了。”德林应一声是,却不敢问是怎样一个用法,还是子城先问他:“你可明白我当初的意思吗?”德林躬身回道:“卑弁是一个粗人,就知道报效总统,至于总统的神机妙用,卑弁如何能仰测高深?”一席话把子城也说笑了,说:“这个你当然不晓得,我实对你说吧,那两千人是专为对付两院议员的。却不是叫他们武力对付,乃是叫他们文明对付,而以武力作一种后盾,你可明白我这意思吗?”德林回道:“卑弁虽不十分明白,多少也有一点领悟。”子城道:“将来这两千人很有用处,只看你平日的训练如何了?”德林一想,要讲平日训练,仅仅就是武术,他方才却说不许武力对付,这可训练什么呢?德林在这一犹豫间,子城早就看明白了,笑道:“你不要为难,听我传授你锦囊妙计。”德林忙把身子向前又蹭了两步,子城低声对他如此这般说了一套,德林这才恍然大悟,立刻欢喜得又现出他那粗野面目来。大声赞道:“真好嘛!到底是大总统的妙计气死诸葛亮,这样办,不怕这群小子们不乖乖地听我们指挥。”子城见他得意忘形,自己也笑了,说:“你还得沉住一点气,先不要这样张狂,这种事也得暂时守秘密,不要叫外间知道。尤其你到天津以后,先要寻几个口才好的,预先将种种词句全都编好了,秘密地印他两三千本小册子,每人给他们一本,叫他们全背熟了,等到用的时候,张口就来。预先再派几个人,教以种种态度,再实地试验一回。务必叫这些人都够上假公民的资格,将来实地做去,决不稍露生硬之弊。” 德林一一答应下来,紧跟着回转天津。他想这件事既须严守秘密,还不能交给外人去办,必须寻一位自己的近人,而其人又长于口才,做事敏捷、精干,然后才能胜任愉快。不过这样全才,仓促间向哪里去寻呢?他正在为难,忽见值日的看门警察上来回话,说:“祝少爷要见大人有要事面谈,您可见他吗?”德林皱眉道:“什么正事,不过是磨我要差事罢了,你叫他进来吧。”原来这个祝少爷并非外人,乃是德林的表侄,他姑母的嫡亲孙子。此人姓祝名平字子琴(按:此人在六十六回中已经表过,本回详载其历史系追述性质),当初原是阔少出身,少年时斗鸡走狗,问柳寻花,无所不为,将家业花了一个精光。老亲也都死了,未过门的妻室,人家也不给了。自己一想,没有妻子也好,免得受带累,一个人无拘无束,有多么舒服。又这样游荡了二年,直落得上无片瓦,下无锥立,连日食两餐都顾不上了。始而到各亲戚家去转食,后来亲戚家也都闭门不纳,他实在没有路儿了,便想到出家当和尚,对付着尚不至于饿死。他昔日的住宅,旁边就是一座大庙,名叫法光寺。法光寺的老方丈同他父亲很有交情,他父亲在日,向寺里施舍的银钱也很不在少数。老方丈慧因最喜欢祝平,当年也曾跳过墙认过师傅,如今自己没有路儿了,只得去寻慧因。一见面就伏地大哭,慧因已经好几年没见他了,平日也很知道他荒唐,典房子卖地,种种经过,也都瞒不了慧因。如今见他寻上门来,还认着他是要借钱呢,一把将他拉起,说:“祝少爷,你要没吃饭,我这里现成。要说到借钱,我们这庙是十方善地,只能向里助钱,不能向外拿钱。对不起,我只好先向你声明了。”祝平抹着眼泪答道:“老师傅,您不要错会了意,弟子今天来,并不是向您借钱,乃是向您要求一件事,您无论如何,也得答应我。您如果不答应我,当时就死在您面前,也决然不能出这庙了。”老和尚大吃一惊,忙追问他是什么事。祝平便将要当和尚的意思,对慧因说知。慧因皱眉道:“我的少爷,这可不是闹着玩的。当和尚谈何容易?头一样你先受不了这种苦。我这庙乃是长处大庙,凡在里面当和尚的,都得受戒。受戒这一关,在你就吃不起,三天三夜跪在地上不能起来,头上还得顶着艾火团,嘴里还得念着真经,错一点规矩,还得受戒方的敲打,你能受得了吗?纵然这一关你能勉强渡过,当了和尚之后,得要终身吃斋。除去念经,便是做苦活。你一个阔少出身,怎能吃得起这种苦呢?”祝平道:“弟子苦海茫茫,回头是岸,但求师傅肯收留我,无论什么样苦全能吃得。”慧因见他是出于至诚,便留他在庙里住几天看。果然祝平起早睡晚,真能随着众和尚操作,慧因这才定期给他落发,从此以后,他便在法光寺当了和尚。慧因看他循规蹈矩,很是不错,过了二年,便升他为知客僧。这知客僧的地位,在寺中最为重要,凡官绅仕宦到寺中烧香还愿的,全归知客僧欢迎招待。知客僧口齿伶俐,能将施主说喜欢了,便有大宗的布施源源而来。祝平虽没有旁的本事,要讲谈话应酬,真能随机应变,面面俱圆。自从他做了知客僧,寺中额外的收入,比每年增加了许多。老方丈慧因,因此刮目相待,很是看重他,后来居然派他帮管财政。这一来不是成全他,却是把他害了,他手中有了钱,慢慢地可就旧疾重发。始而小试其端,继而竟大嫖大赌,简直变成一位花和尚。后来被慧因得知,重重地笞责了他一番,他赌气便蓄发还俗,不再做和尚了。 他还俗的缘故,一半因为老和尚罚他,一半也因为他的表叔杨德林升了直隶巡警道,自己觉着有了这样靠山,不犯着再当和尚。还俗之后,便常常磨他表叔要一份差使。德林知道他是一个荒唐鬼,如果委他差使,难保他不再惹祸。只面子上答应着,实际却高高悬起来,不买他这一笔账。祝平时常来求见,有时候见他,也有时候不见。见了面,祝平便磨他表叔非委差不可,德林一再延宕,他却不肯罢休。这一天又跑到巡警道衙门,立刻要见道台。德林听说他来了,心里一动:大总统当面委的这种差事,我正愁没有相当人才,可以负起这训练的责任来,祝平虽是一个荒唐鬼,然而他的心思灵敏、口才便捷,并且也粗通文理,要办理这件事,确乎是不可多得之才,我何不就把这事委给他去做呢?想到这里,叫值日警察将祝平叫上来。祝平见了他表叔,苦眉苦脸地说:“你老人家到北京去了三四天,我天天跑苦腿,见不着,今天好容易见着了,您无论什么事赏我一个。吃饭要紧,难道您还眼巴巴地看着我饿死吗?”德林说:“你这孩子真糊涂,咱们骨肉至亲,但凡想得出主意来,我能袖手不管吗?这一座巡警道衙门,三科一处,全有固定员额,不是老资格有成绩的,便是有专门学问的,我怎能推下一个去拿你补缺?要叫你去当书记,你又不会写楷书字,难道还能派你去当警察吗?他也干不了啊!”祝平道:“怎么干不了呢?您要派我当警察,我马上就去站岗。”德林道:“眼前倒是有一种事,只是此事比当警察还要辛苦,还格外负的责任大,但不知你能干不能干?”祝平道:“什么事?您只管说吧,我没有不能干的。”德林随将训练健身社社员假充公民助成大选,应当如何筹备的情形,全对祝平说了。祝平欢喜得跳起来,说:“表叔,这事您放心吧,我敢具甘结,有一个月工夫,准保将这两千人训练成能文能武,有软有硬,能说善道的变相公民,您就擎着在大总统驾前讨好儿吧。”德林道:“你也不可把这事看得太容易了,最要紧是能成事不至偾事,将来才能于大选有益。假如他们一出门就闯祸,这个不是,你可就担不起啦。”祝平道:“这是自然,还用您嘱咐吗?”德林立刻下了一个条子,派祝平为健身社社长,旧社长杜某调为勤务督察长,即日到差,不得延误。委令补发。祝平凭空得了这一项美差,真是说不尽的欢喜快活,当日便走马上任,到健身社接差。各社员知道换了一位新社长,大家都来参谒,连韩张两位教习也来谒见。祝平敷衍了几句,说:“目前武术一门,暂时停止,要训练一种特别的功课,请大家按甲乙丙丁,分作十班,轮流听讲。”他从本地特邀了二十名久在市面上惯出风头,专能说外场话,成本成套、滔滔不绝的说客,分任这十班的教习。又特请两位破落秀才,专搜集新名词,什么权利义务、自由平等,民国以人民为主体、议员代表人民、是人民的雇佣,人民是中华民国的主人翁、是议员的上司,把这种种名词串成一套,印成单行本,终日训练这些人,所教的不过流口辙而已。本来天津人十个之中,总有九个能说会道,谈起话来,都讲一套一套的,仿佛说评书背载儿(按:评书行话,凡说成套的衣服相貌,动辄数百数十言,联为一气,谓之说载儿)。不怕没理的事,也要矫出三分理来,何况此次叫他们假充公民,监督大选,这是光明正大、理直气壮的事。用不着三教五教,只略略地加以传授,早已心领神会。一个个仿佛抱着满腹经纶,跃跃欲试,仅仅一个月工夫,就完全毕业了。祝平特特来见杨德林,报告训练已经成功,请厅长实地试验。德林见他训练得这样神速,心中很是诧异,说:“不能这样快啊!你不要草草了事,这不是闹着玩的。将来到了北京,总统一高兴,就许当面试验一番。倘然所答非所问,驴唇不对马嘴,这个不是我可担不起啊!”祝平道:“表叔不放心,您不妨试验一回。如果不合程度,小侄情甘受罚。”德林说:“好好!咱们就这样办。明天我带着署里几个科长科员到健身社去,就扮作议员,那里就作为临时的选举场,我们假装投票,就叫他们扮成公民模样,权做临时的主人翁,倒看他们怎样监督?能否发生效力?你就赶紧回去预备一切好了。”祝平毫不畏缩地答应
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