Chapter 15 Red Top Merchant (9-2)

As for inviting Xu Naizhao back to Hangzhou to preside over the aftermath, this is also a good move that must be played.Because as soon as Ma Xinyi took office, Hu Xueyan had no choice but to leave; and to find a replacement, the most suitable candidate was Xu Naizhao.First, he was a great official in Xinjiang, and his family name was from Hanlin. He was a veritable "Mr. Jinshen"; To see Ma Xinyi according to his status, as usual, he should receive the courtesy of "hard entry and hard exit"-opening the middle door to welcome him off, so that speaking for the local area will be much more powerful; .

Therefore, Zuo Zongtang readily accepted Hu Xueyan's construction; and he said that he would write a very sincere letter in his own hand to pay tribute to Xu Naizhao. After talking about official affairs, talk about "private affairs"; and private affairs are also official affairs: Hu Xueyan's source.Zuo Zongtang intends to transfer him to Fujian; but he does not have to act with him, he is stationed in Shanghai and manages everything for him.Hu Xueyan agreed without hesitation.From the next day, Zuo Zongtang actively began to deploy according to the agreed steps; in addition to the battle report, several memorials were issued in succession.The first is: Zhejiang's military and military supplies are very difficult, and they can't take care of themselves; they should be allocated to Shaanxi and Gansu, please ask the Ministry of Households to make another arrangement.The second is to ask Ma Xinyi, the new governor of Zhejiang, to take office as soon as possible. As for Ma Xinyi before he takes office, the governor of Zhejiang should be "nursed" by Jiang Yili, the governor of Zhejiang.The third way is to allocate 80,000 taels of Yang Yuebin's "trading capital" according to the order, and try to raise half of it when there is no way to do it.

The fourth memorial has nothing to do with Zhejiang—every day at the turn of summer and autumn, the Ministry of Households urges the provinces to report the "Beijing salary" as usual; Office expenses; sacrificial expenses in the mausoleum of the ancestral temple; and the "payment of silver" submitted in three sections every year for the empress dowagers of the two palaces and the emperor's private flowers are all included in the Beijing rate, so the co-pay can be owed, but the Beijing rate cannot be owed. .Fujian owes 100,000 taels of customs tax silver and 20,000 taels of tea tax, and the edict said: "The work shall be settled within twelve months. If there are still pretexts and delays, and the need is missed, the Ministry of Households will check and act accordingly." Set up the charter and appoint strict participants."

Despite such a strict decree, Zuo Zongtang still owes the last time; because otherwise, it is not enough to show the poverty of Fujian, and Zhejiang must help it.Of course, the method of owed and owed is not something that can be done with a hard top; Zuo Zongtang’s method is, in addition to crying for poverty, he will remit the 10,000 taels of "nourishing silver" that the governor of Fujian and Zhejiang deserves from the ticket number to the household department. , as a solution for the Beijing rate. The fifth way is to stop Guangdong and Zhejiang's co-payment.The main function is to take this opportunity to let the court know that Guangdong's co-payment is a "picture cake" for Zhejiang.Therefore, the reason for the stop is just the sentence "now that the military affairs in Zhejiang Province are cleared up, all the previous payment should be stopped"; but the accounts before the "stop" are very clear, from the first month of the first year of Tongzhi to the eighth day of this year Months, even leaps, a total of 33 months; Guangdong should pay 3.3 million taels to Zhejiang Association, but the actual income is only 280,000.Among them, 220,000 taels were allocated by Lijin; Zeng Guofan said that from the opening of Lijin in Guangdong to the end of August of this year, a total of 1.2 million was collected, so the Zhejiang army "has received no more than two-tenths of it."

The sixth is the personnel affairs after deployment to Fujian.The reason for the memorial is "all staff are required to handle the payment, please request rewards"; it is called with a request.Of course there is Hu Xueyan, who was originally a "Jiangxi Probationary Taoist" with the title of "Salt Transport Envoy"; It seems that it is not as lively and eye-catching as the military officer's "Please reward Dai Hualing" and "Please reward the title of Gaba Tulu"; in fact, it helped Hu Xueyan a lot, because the "trial Taoism" was changed to "replenishment by Taoist priests", As long as it is approved, any real vacancies can be filled immediately; and "reward plus the rank of inspector", you can act as Fusi and become a "supervisor" who will improve the real vacancies.For Zuo Zongtang, this guarantee is at least equal to three years of hard work.

But Hu Xueyan didn't know when Zuo Zongtang sent out this memorial; because he had already arrived in Shanghai.Take Zuo Zongtang's personal letter to meet "Master Xu Qi"; the talk is very harmonious.Completed all the tasks entrusted by Zuo Zongtang; it was only a two-night delay to talk to my mother about the West Lake after the catastrophe, and spent a long time with Gu Yingchun before returning to Hangzhou on the original ship. Back in Hangzhou, the first person who wanted to see him was not Zuo Zongtang, but Jiang Yili, the "nursing Fuzhuan" of the vassal; he had already sent someone to leave a message at Fukang Bank, and when Hu Xueyan arrived, he would notify him immediately so that meet.

"Xue Weng," Jiang Yili said with a sad face after meeting Hu Xueyan, "You must help me! The commander-in-chief has explained that Zhejiang will release 200,000 taels of Fujian Association's salary every month; It’s not allowed to come out even one day later. Isn’t this difficult for the strong?” Hearing this, Hu Xueyan was also startled.During the Hongyang Rebellion, Zhejiang was severely robbed, sores and pains were everywhere, and a lot of waste was waiting to be raised. How could two hundred thousand taels of silver be used to support the teachers who came to Fujian?At that time, it was estimated that one hundred thousand taels of silver could be collected every month, which was exhausted; if Zuo Zongtang opened his mouth and doubled, and the days were not allowed, it would be too much.

"Xue Weng," Jiang Yili said again, "both public and private, you have to keep talking. Privately, my brother obeys in front of the commander-in-chief; publically, as the saying goes, 'the wool grows on the sheep', it is really hard to understand this number. No, it will only affect the local area. Xue Weng, you can't bear it! Besides, I'm just a feudal official after all." The last sentence is Jiang Yili's real difficulty.At present, the great seal of the governor is held in his hand, and it is easy to do things as soon as the order is issued; when Ma Xinyi takes office, he thinks that the salary of the association is too large to be reduced.On the other hand, Zuo Zongtang was the benefactor who single-handedly promoted him, and he had a promise first, so he had to maintain the original number.Could it be that he squeezed into the crack and flattened his head?

After thinking for a while, Hu Xueyan felt that this trouble must be taken care of, so he nodded and said, "Okay. I'll find a solution." "I'm saved now!" Jiang Yili felt relieved, cupped his hands and asked, "Xue Weng, I'm sure you've got a plan. What's the way? Can you hear it first?" "Of course, of course! I wanted to ask for advice. Hu Xueyan replied, "First, I would like to ask Mr. Zuo to reduce the number." "Reduction?" Jiang Yili asked, "How much?" "There must be a 30% discount." "With a 30% discount, I still have to pay 140,000 taels per month." Jiang Yili said, "Now that the military affairs are cleared up, I, as a feudal commander, don't need to lead troops to fight, but have to do something on my duty. You see—"

Jiang Yili counted in detail what he should do, the most important thing related to the national economy and the people's livelihood is to build water conservancy.The whole territory of Zhejiang is full of soil fields, those near the mountains are barren, and those near the water are rich.Taking advantage of the benefits of silk, the first priority is to plant mulberries; and the cultivation and irrigation of mulberry trees is no different from the requirements of paddy fields.Therefore, since ancient times, being an official in Zhejiang, leaving behind the love of the people and thinking about it for a long time is all because of great achievements in water conservancy.

Zhejiang's water conservancy focuses on northern Zhejiang; the water conservancy in northern Zhejiang focuses on seawalls.Qianlong's six southern tours were all in the name of inspecting the seawalls of Zhejiang. It is conceivable that their relationship is important.If the seawall is to be complete and strong enough to withstand the tide, stone ponds must be used; since Hong Yang's rebellion, the stone ponds in the Haining area have not been repaired, and they are gradually collapsing. Now they need to be repaired in time, and the estimated cost is tens of millions of silver; Tang, for the time being. "It costs 300,000 silver to build an earthen pond. Earthen pond materials are not expensive, but labor is expensive. After the chaos, there are fewer young men, so it is labor costs." Jiang Yili said, "Xue Weng, I also want to talk to you about this matter. Discuss; how to raise a sum of money to use the seawall to repair it? If the seawall collapses, it is a terrible thing. When I think about it, I really can't sleep." Hearing what Jiang Yili said, Hu Xueyan is very respectable even if it is a coquettish word. "Below three generations, I'm afraid I won't be well-known", there is no need to ask his original intention.He said that he wanted to be a good official; he might as well be kind to others, take this opportunity to praise him, help him, and push him to become a good official, which is also a blessing for the locality.Thinking of this, he replied without hesitation: "Please don't worry. I will plan it. It is not difficult for everyone to donate according to their ability." "That would be the best." Jiang Yili was very relieved, "There is also the dredging of the West Lake, which can no longer be delayed. The water conservancy of the West Lake is related to the irrigation of paddy fields in Hangzhou and Haining; it must be sorted out before next spring, which is also good. Tens of thousands of silver. Xue Weng, think about it, is it difficult for me to be a feudal official? Is there any way to open source, I really want to ask you for advice." "Now I can only use my brain on salt." Hu Xueyan replied, "If I can follow my method, I can save the emergency. For a year or so, Fujian's military affairs will come to an end; Zhejiang will no longer have to pay the co-payment. At that time It's easy." "I think so too, but I don't know much about the salt method; the commander-in-chief is an expert." "Master Zuo is an expert?" Hu Xueyan asked in surprise. "It's not surprising. Xue Weng, don't you know? The Marshal is Tao Wenyi's son and daughter." "Ah! Ah! So it is!" Hu Xueyan suddenly realized that Zuo Zongtang was an expert in the salt method and had his own origins.When he was 26 years old, Tao Shu, governor of Liangjiang, finished his military parade in Jiangxi, and asked for leave to go back to his hometown of Anhua, Hunan, to visit the tomb. After passing through Liling, the county magistrate "run business" as usual. , made a pair of couplets, and Tao Shu was very grateful when he saw it; he asked the county magistrate, it was written by Zuo Zongtang, so he invited him to meet him at that time. Sure enough, when it came to the salt affairs in Zhejiang, Zuo Zongtang immediately said that before he handed over his part-time job as governor of Zhejiang, there were several things that must be done. From the first month of the fourth year of Yemen, we will try it out for one year first. "My method has four items in total: the first is anti-smuggling; There is at least one hundred thousand silver per month, which is enough for half of my amount." That is to say, Zuo Zongtang's teacher who aided Fujian had to pay 200,000 taels of salary in Zhejiang every month.It is completely consistent with Jiang Yili's words.Hu Xueyan is very calm, so let's take it to heart for now; let's talk about salt affairs first. "Your Excellency, of the four methods, the last three are feasible; but the anti-smuggling is somewhat difficult. Zhejiang Salt is sold in Songjiang; Songjiang is the ground of Jiangsu, and it is beyond reach. Have you ever thought about this?" "Of course I have thought about it." Zuo Zongtang replied, "I was just about to discuss with you. Didn't you mention to me that there is a leader of the Songjiang Cao Gang who is honest and capable? Would he be willing to help Zhejiang? ?” "This person's surname is You. As long as the adults order, he will be happy to help." Hu Xueyan asked: "I don't know how to help with this job?" "Naturally lead a team to fight against smuggling." Hu Xueyan asked knowingly; when Zuo Zongtang had an answer, he deliberately shook his head and said, "I'm afraid it can't be done. He is a 'lucky man', not an official; Everyone should be honored as 'General Master'. My lord, please think, how does he lead the team? Even if he is willing to help, the officers and soldiers who have been dispatched will not obey his command." "That's true." Zuo Zongtang hesitated, "However, if he didn't lead a team to fight against smuggling, what can we rely on?" "Your Majesty has always been well aware of the background of the Cao Gang. You's subordinates all heard him say: If there is a name, the anti-smuggling in Songjiang area will definitely be effective." "Oh, I understand." Zuo Zong Tang thought for a while and said: "There is nothing wrong with doing this; let You recruit people by himself, of course not too many, recruit two or three hundred people, and let him take charge of a certain official position of You. I will entrust the Salt Transport Envoy to handle the matter; You, please go to the joint. As for the salaries and public expenses, they will all be paid from the salt affairs funds according to the rules in my camp." Hu Xueyan was very happy; this not only found a way out for You Wu, but also benefited his business affairs, so he readily agreed.Then he talked about what Jiang Yili entrusted; that is, the amount of Zhejiang's monthly settlement of Fujian's salary. "In the past, Zhejiang relied on Fujian to pay as much as three million yuan. Now that the Zhejiang division is helping Fujian, the salary should naturally be provided by Zhejiang. What is your idea, please explain it, so that you can plan as soon as possible." "I've already made a deal with Xiangquan. Zhejiang will give me 200,000 yuan a month." "200,000 yuan is not much, but Zhejiang's vitality is too low!" Hu Xueyan deliberately pondered for a while; then asked out of the blue Said: "Is your lord planning to go to Fujian and want to play and tune Jiang and Yang to help?" Zuo Zongtang was puzzled by this question, and immediately replied: "I have no such plan. Moreover, Jiang Yang and the two have also fawned on the supervisor. One is that there is no position in Fujian; the other is that the court has not seen it Yes. Besides, why would I bother to pave the way for Ma Gushan and make room for these two critical gaps so that he can quote private individuals?" This answer was originally expected by Hu Xueyan; especially the last point, which is more relevant-Jiang Yili stayed as the governor of Zhejiang; and Yang Chang was appointed as the governor of Zhejiang. It was Zuo Zongtang's "moving hand chess ", to restrain Ma Xinyi and protect his salary source in Zhejiang, how can he give in to himself?And the reason why Hu Xueyan asked questions knowingly, was also a way of answering because of the words, so as to introduce the topic. "That's it! I hope that Jiang and Yang will be divided into two parts and be content with their positions; it is the same as my lord is still taking charge of Zhejiang Fuzhuan. However, my lord, I have something to say, I'm afraid it will hurt my ears." "It doesn't matter, you and I have nothing to talk about. Besides, you must have good words for me." "Yes, I am planning for the adults; the water will flow steadily and steadily." Hu Xueyan replied calmly: "Zhejiang's income is not only limited, but also cannot be estimated. The land, money and grain have been exempted by decree; the income from the salt tax is decided. It will not improve until late spring and early summer next year; rice donation depends on whether neighboring provinces are willing to help? Lijin is the only reliable one; the market is getting more and more prosperous, and the collection will naturally increase, but it also depends on the integrity of the handlers As for expenditures, the first is to deal with the aftermath; the second is to spend a lot of money on the seawall. The salaries and salaries of civil and military officials in large and small yamen must be raised; there are always some local soldiers. Think about it How can Jiang Xiangquan, a feudal official, continue to be a feudal official, if he collects 200,000 silver each month to solve the grain table; the treasury is completely cleaned up and nothing can be changed?" "This," Zuo Zongtang was stunned for a long while before he continued, "This won't be as embarrassing as you said, right?" "Of course. I'm exaggerating. But, my lord, please think about it for Ma Zhongcheng; he has just been courted by a high-ranking official, so he naturally wants to start a career. If you are stretched everywhere and can't move, how can you do it then? What to do? Only force Jiang Xiangquan; to force Jiang Xiangquan is to force your lord." Hu Xueyan paused and said: "In the past, Shen Zhongcheng in Jiangxi was single-handedly promoted by Zeng Zhongtang; the Lijin of this province was detained as he said, and the court never blamed him for delaying the brothers of the Zeng family. 'Eastern Expedition'. Although Ma Zhongcheng is not as staunch as Shen Zhongcheng, he is not someone who is willing to muddle along." When it comes to the past of Shen Baozhen and Zeng Guofan's feud, Zuo Zongtang can't help being vigilant.He is the one who pays the most attention to the relationship between interests; thinking calmly, Ma Xinyi's footsteps are very firm; there is no weakness to attack, and if there is a dispute over this, he may not be able to gain the upper hand.Moreover, Jiang Yili was the first to bear the brunt of the trouble; once he was transferred from Zhejiang, how could he get 200,000 silver a month? After thinking about it, he asked calmly: "Then, Xueyan, what do you think? What should I do?" Hu Xueyan replied bluntly: "Only reduce the number." "How much?" Zuo Zongtang asked. "I don't dare to say that." Zuo Zongtang replied, "I just ask my lord to explain it to you. Brothers in the officers and soldiers should be wronged first. As soon as the situation improves, they will make up for it." "Okay!" Zuo Zongtang nodded, "I I can't bear to be too tired Zhejiang; just according to your wishes, let the grain table recalculate, and reduce it until there is no reduction. However, Xueyan, you know my situation. I have been alone and helpless; I have to open a way out " "Yes!" Hu Xueyan responded expressionlessly. "You have to help me a lot!" Zuo Zongtang asked, "Look, how should I find my way out?" "Isn't your lord already done?" That refers to the pursuit of Guangdong.Zuo Zongtang frowned slightly and said: "It's not difficult to get rid of Guo; the difficulty lies in being able to replace him? Xiangquan's qualifications and prestige are always insufficient for his duties. If I run into a rebuff, it will be difficult for me to speak in the future. This The first level has a lot to do with it, and I can't act rashly before I'm sure. However, I can't reveal this to Xiang Quan." Hu Xueyan listened very attentively; after careful consideration, he could distinguish the flavor from the taste. If Jiang Yili wanted to be the governor of Guangdong, he had no choice but to find another job to help him.That is to say, as long as there is Olympic aid in the court, Zuo Zongtang is guaranteed not to reject his recommendation in the future; he is happy to play. Thinking of this, I asked myself: Should I help Jiang Yili?Can I help you with this?There is no need to think about the former; Jiang Yili can be promoted to governor of Guangdong, which is of great benefit to both public and private.As for whether you can help or not?It is too early to say at this time; anyway, it is man-made, as long as you do your best, there is hope.Wanting to stop, he immediately said: "Your Excellency is the pillar of the imperial court, and the holy family has always been outstanding. I heard from people in Beijing in Shanghai that King Gong thinks highly of His Majesty; King Chun admires him in particular. Back then, Zeng Zhongtang could guarantee him to supervise military affairs. The governor of the province; why can't my lord do it now? As for the prestige of Xiangquan, he was promoted from the Zhejiang Fan to the Governor of Guangdong, which is not considered to be a governor; isn't Ma Zhongcheng a ready-made example? Of course, because of the income of the Guangdong Customs and the The Ministry of Internal Affairs is very related, and the situation is different from other provinces; however, as long as there are people in Beijing to take care of it, it is not hopeless." "That's right, I need someone in Beijing to take care of me! Xiangquan is at a disadvantage on this floor." "It's not too late to start a cold stove right in front of us." Zuo Zongtang took a deep look at him; pondered and pondered, and finally said: "You might as well talk to Xiang Quan!" "yes!" "His business depends on you." Zuo Zongtang said again, "I am less than you. You are here with me, neither leading troops nor caring about grain platforms; but it is more important than leading troops to manage grain platforms. Xueyan, As soon as I leave, you have to leave quickly and stay permanently in Shanghai; if the food bank can't provide you with food and military uniforms, I'll only rely on you!" This responsibility is too heavy, and Hu Xueyan suddenly felt his shoulders strain; but he could not hesitate to say anything, so he answered bravely: "Yes! Please rest assured, my lord!" "With your words, I can really rest assured. "Zuo Zongtang breathed a sigh of relief; then asked: "What do you want me to do for you? I plan to leave at the end of the month; there is still half a month to go. If you have something to say, speak as soon as possible." Hu Xueyan had thought about it a long time ago. Once Zuo Zongtang left, even though it was the seal of Jiang Yili's nursing governor, things could still be discussed; however, it was not as simple and powerful as entrusting Zuo Zongtang.In the past six months of getting along, I have never asked him for anything; but now I can't miss the opportunity anymore.What's more, he asked first; if he didn't speak again, it would appear hypocritical, which would be too unwise. With this understanding, he decided to "speak freely"; first he used a method of retreating to advance, "I want to ask adults for a lot of things," he said, "I am afraid that adults will be bored, so I dare not say more." "It doesn't matter, it doesn't matter!" Zuo Zongtang waved his hands again and again, "I have always entrusted you, and I owe you a lot; just say it." "Yes!" Hu Xueyan said: "The first one, the former Wang Zhongcheng, died too badly. At that time, Lord Meng presided over justice, found out what happened, and found out the participation. However, this case is not over yet, and I want to ask His Excellency to complete it all the time. " "Oh," Zuo Zongtang was a little dazed; because it was more than two years later and he couldn't remember clearly, he had to ask, "Why is this case gone?" "It was in April of the first year of Tongzhi, the case of 'Xunming Wang Luqian's delay' played by your lord—" "Ah," Zuo Zongtang was reminded, "wait a minute." He opened his mandarin jacket happily, and took the key from his belt - the key signifies authority, as big as "Shenji Camp" and "House of Internal Affairs", and being designated as "Mengming" means that he is entrusted with the responsibility of the head; as small as a big family Housekeepers—or like Wang Xifeng in the Dream of Red Mansions, all take the control of the keys as a clear expression of real power.It's just that the keys are very small and have no eyes to show their authoritative status, so they add more accessories; usually "win with more", get some useless keys to tie together; even put a big iron ring in series, The sound of "Jiang Lang Jiang Lang" in the hand, as if the intentions of the "prison prisoner", as long as the bunch of keys is shaken, it is enough to deter the prisoners. However, there is often only one key that can really see the weight of the key, and Zuo Zongtang is the same. He only has one key, which is worn with a silk rope and hung on his belt; So, he approached a bookcase, opened it and took out a large stack of red books; Hu Xueyan looked at it from a distance, and saw four large characters written on it: "Keep the manuscript for the end". After finding the copy in April of the first year of Tongzhi, Zuo Zongtang put on dark crystal presbyopic glasses and read it carefully before asking: "Xue Yan, you said that this case is unfinished; what is unfinished?" "My lord, please review the approval at that time; you will know." There was no way to seize the approval for a while, Zuo Zongtang replied: "I think you always know, tell me!" "Yes!" Hu Xueyan was a little embarrassed. Because when Wang Youling was sticking to Hangzhou, the main source of salary was in Shaoxing; while Wang Luqian, the minister of training in the regiment, was not very cooperative.At the same time, some evil gentry in Shaoxing surrounded Wang Luqian, and regarded Wang Youling's use of a province's officials to collect salaries as a way to extort money from the people, and the government and the people unexpectedly became hostile. Therefore, Liao Zongyuan, the magistrate of Shaoxing Prefecture, was in an extremely difficult situation; when Changmao attacked from Xiaoshan to Shaoxing, the gunboats of the official army clashed with the regiment training.Twelve of Liao Zongyuan's personal soldiers were killed; Liao Zongyuan himself was also beheaded.This should have been suppressed by Wang Luqian, but he just stood by.Soon, Shaoxing fell; Liao Zongyuan was martyred; Wang Luqian fled to Ningbo in advance and took refuge in Fujian.Shaoxing should not be lost, and Wang Luqian's restraint everywhere, regardless of the overall situation, made Wang Youling hate him deeply. The blood letter he sent in the dangerous city stated that "death will not rest in peace".Because of this, Hu Xueyan was brooding, and always wanted to avenge Wang Youling. Of course, even if Hu Xueyan didn't think so, the imperial court would pursue the responsibility for the fall of Hangzhou and not allow Wang Luqian to get away with it.In the second year—the spring of the first year of Tongzhi, Qingrui, governor of Fujian and Zhejiang, was ordered to arrest Wang Lvqian, and sent Zuo Zongtang, the new Zhejiang governor of Quzhou, for interrogation.The imperial decree was as requested, which was regarded as a sigh of relief for Wang Youling. However, in this case, the culprit was Zhang Cunhao, a rich gentry from Shaoxing, who falsely accused Liao Zongyuan of gunboat gangsters, killing relatives, and beating the magistrate.Zuo Zongtang said in the replay, "Because of Liao Zongyuan's strict urging of donations, Zhang Cunhao and others dared to do those illegal things in spite of selfishness. They should be punished strictly after the recovery of Shaoxing Mansion. .” Now not only Shaoxing has been restored, but the whole of Zhejiang has also been wiped out.But Yan took Zhang Cunhao to the case, but there was nothing to say.What Hu Xueyan said "this case is not settled" refers to this. But at this moment, his embarrassment was unbearable.When it comes to the relationship between people in troubled times, who owes whom, and who owes whom?This is a difficult thing to say.It's been a few years, and both of them are the survivors of a catastrophe; it seems that we should calm down and look away. Of course, Zuo Zongtang would not have guessed his temporary change of mind, so he urged, "Since you and I have a lot of things, let's talk about them one by one! Don't waste your time." This time he couldn't help but tell the truth.While talking, a new idea emerged in my heart; so after talking about the original idea, I went on to say: "Although Zhang Cunhao can ask the adults to forgive him, but he can't be too cheap. I'm thinking, he should also Make atonement for the crime; punish him to do some public welfare for the local area. Is it feasible, my lord?" "Of course it is possible." Zuo Zongtang asked: "How is this person's family?" "That's good! I'll tell Xiang Quan to inform the Shaoxing Mansion and send him to the case; order him to donate according to his ability to do a good deed for the local government." "If this is the case, both public and private can live well. As for the loyal ministers and righteous men who were martyred twice, the Rehabilitation Bureau will interview the deeds and report them one after another; I also ask the adults to play a performance as soon as possible to comfort the dead." "Of course. I have to do this before I leave." Zuo Zongtang said again: "You talk about the second thing." The second is public-private entanglement, a major matter related to each other. Hu Xueyan issued Ma Xinyi's new order. When the political situation in Zhejiang began to change, he hoped that he would no longer act as an agent for the treasury; Jiang Yili refused to let him go. , asking for "Continue to Help".Hu Xueyan valued affection the most, and he had to reluctantly do what he could. "It's different now." Hu Xueyan talked about the first half of the song, and then said: "My lord ordered me to be stationed in Shanghai permanently. I asked for food, salary and armaments. When it was urgent, I was the only one to ask; this responsibility is too heavy, and I have no spare energy to do it again." I have served the Zhejiang Fan Treasury." The so-called "service" means that when the demand is low, you have to try to advance money.Of course Zuo Zongtang understood what he meant; but he had a different opinion, "Xueyan, the Zhejiang Fan Treasury will allocate 140,000 yuan to me every month, and your bank will transfer it to the grain platform. In this way, you represent The Zhejiang Fan Treasury is equivalent to handing over the left hand to the right hand, and it is not troublesome; why bother to refuse?" He paused and said, "In my opinion, it is beneficial to me and harmless for you to represent the Zhejiang Fan Treasury; if you have money, you can do it anytime Dialing. If there is an urgent need ahead, it will be convenient for you to dispatch." "No!" Hu Xueyan said, "First, since I have been appointed by Your Excellency and returned to Fujian, it is inconvenient for me to act as an agent for the vassal treasury in Zhejiang; secondly, since I am in charge of the supply of Your Excellency, I must clearly distinguish myself from Zhejiang." Chu. In case someone speaks gossip in the future, it will not affect your reputation." "Thank you so much! You are really planning for me in every way. Since you must insist, I will take care of Xiang Quan." With this promise, Hu Xueyan was relieved.Because only he can see the whole situation most clearly; although 60,000 yuan has been deducted from the assisted salary of the troops who aided Fujian, it is still an extremely heavy burden for Zhejiang.After the new governor takes office, there must be a new plan. Zonghan has a lot of waste, and a huge amount of money is needed just to repair the seawall.Frost's fall is over now, and it's time for Hegong to "report Anlan"; once the new year starts, it's time to do it right away!Otherwise, starting from the "Peach Blossom Flood", at the turn of spring and summer, the flood will rise sharply, which may lead to huge disasters.How could it be easy to act as an agent for the treasury at that time? Of course, he can express his inability to pay for the cost of the seawall; but as Ma Xinyi said: "Then Fujian's co-payment asks Hu Daotai's bank to pay for it";This is indeed the case, and even if he does not act as an agent for the Zhejiang Fan Treasury, he still has to advance money for Zuo Zongtang.It's just that they are the same pad, but the sayings are different. As far as Zhejiang is concerned, since it is an agent of the treasury, it should try to make an advance on its behalf; as far as Zuo Zongtang is concerned, Hu Xueyan is advancing money for Zhejiang, so he doesn't need to be sympathetic.This came to a bad end.If Zhejiang can't solve the cooperative salary, it is a personal urgency to pay for it with his emotional intelligence; Ma Xinyi will be grateful, and Zuo Zongtang will also say that he is a good friend.The most important thing is that the Zhejiang treasury borrowed from his bank, which is guaranteed and has interest, and will not take any risks. "What else is there? Why don't you just say it now?" "Don't dare to trouble your lord anymore." Hu Xueyan said with a smile, "The rest are trivial matters, I can take care of them myself." Having said that, Hu Xueyan manages too many official affairs; his own business, besides the bank, also includes silk tea;Now that the political situation has changed, Zuo Zongtang has entrusted him to stay in Shanghai permanently; for public and private affairs in Zhejiang, he must make proper arrangements during the period when Zuo Zongtang leaves Zhejiang and Ma Xinyi is not in office.As a result, he was so busy eating and drinking, and his daily life was abnormal, that he wished to have an extra mouth and an extra pair of hands to cope with it. During this busy schedule, Zuo Zongtang still made appointments from time to time, and one day he even wrote a personal letter asking him to visit the West Lake the next morning; now, Hu Xueyan is really dumbfounded!But I had to keep the promise; I had to stay up all night, and I had to deal with several urgent matters that had been backlogged for a long time and had to be completed in the morning of the next day.When the dawn was about to break through, I took a nap with my clothes on; after a short sleep, I woke up with a start, but saw that it was a beautiful day with a red sun all over the window, so I hurriedly washed and changed my clothes, got on a sedan chair and went straight to the West Lake. Zuo Zongtang's date. The sedan chair was carried over the dilapidated "Qiying", and the West Lake was in sight; Hu Xueyan suddenly noticed that there were a lot of pedestrians going north along the lake.At that time, I called my attendant to inquire; only then did I realize that they were all there to see the "Western Steamboat". Hu Xueyan suddenly realized that it was not for leisurely visits to the West Lake; he was just invited to watch the trial voyage of the small steamer - of course Hu Xueyan knew about it.As early as in the summer, Zuo Zongtang told him that he had found a mechanic to try to build a steamer.Because he was too busy, he didn't have time to ask questions; he didn't want to have a small steamer made by himself in three or four months.This is a big deal!If you can build a small ship, you can build a large ship; Hu Xueyan's thinking is very broad and fast, and he immediately thought of the many benefits of having large ships in China.The more I thought about it, the more I thought about it, and I lost my mind; I didn't become alert until the sedan chair stopped. When I got off the sedan chair, I saw that it was in front of Zhaoqing Temple, one of the four famous temples in West Lake.A tent by the lakeside; outside the tent, the feathers are brilliant, and the blades are as bright as snow; the most striking thing is that there are a few foreigners mixed in, one of them is wearing a suit;Hu Xueyan knew them very well. These two foreign generals were both French. One was called Riyige, who had been changed to Wu Jiuwen, and was appointed as the tax bureau of Ningbo Xinguan, so he changed into casual clothes; the other was called Deke Bei , Because of his military merits, he was able to be a general, and he was willing to change his appearance to show his obedience, which was highly valued by Zuo Zongtang.In the middle of the lake, a small fire wheel was tied to a very thick cable, ready to go.Hu Xueyan also visited with the crowd, and when he was giving instructions, Zuo Zongtang had already left the tent; he walked slowly through the ranks of civil and military officials standing on duty until he stood still by the lake, and shouted: "Master Hu!" Hu Xueyan was called over, and after the ceremony, he first apologized: "I didn't come to serve you earlier." Then he said with a smile: "Zeng Zhongtang and Li Zhongcheng both pay attention to foreign affairs, and pay attention to strong armor and soldiers. Now they are all behind the adults." This compliment made Zuo Zongtang very happy, "I just want them to see it!" He stroked his short gray mustache and nodded, "So I specially invite you to see it, only you understand my intention." Hu Xueyan didn't dare to talk anymore, because it doesn't matter if he compliments casually.As soon as we talk about it in depth, I don't know what Zuo Zongtang's idea is; moreover, he himself doesn't know much about it, so it's better to hide his clumsiness for now. Fortunately, this is not the time for in-depth discussions; the main thing is to watch.With an order, the small, crude steamer made a sound of "boo boo boo," causing a large splash of water at the stern; but the sound of the machine was intermittent, like an aging old man coughing. Looked out of breath. At this time, tens of thousands of officials, soldiers, and civilians were watching with bated breath by the lake; they were all sweating for the small steamer that didn't make any noise, lest it wouldn't move, and the four mechanics in charge of making it even more so. It was sweating profusely, and kept getting in and out of the cabin; after working for a long time, I finally heard the sound of the machine, and the rhythm was even.Then suddenly rushed forward; Hu Xueyan couldn't help saying: "Thank God, it moved!" It moved, but it couldn't walk fast; it faltered, barely pushing.It took two quarters of an hour to circle the lake and drive back to the original place.One of the alternate magistrates who undertook the job brought a machine builder wearing a red tasseled cap to the job; Zuo Zongtang, who had a very serious face, still ordered that each machine builder be rewarded with twenty taels of silver. Everyone saw that Zuo Zongtang was not very satisfied, and they all felt that their spirits were waning; the same was true for Hu Xueyan.The station shift sent Zuo Zongtang away, and hurried back to the city to attend to his public and private affairs.Unexpectedly, in the evening, Zuo Zongtang sent Geshha to invite him with a business card, saying, "The commander-in-chief will wait for Mr. Hu to arrive before serving dinner." When I arrived at Xingyuan, I was surprised to find that the two guests were there, and the other was a general surnamed Cai.Hu Xueyan first met Zuo Zongtang; then he saluted with Dekebei and Riyige, bowed to each other, and entered the table.Although Zuo Zongtang is the master, he still occupies the first seat, with foreign generals on the left and right, accompanied by the Prime Minister Hu Xueyan; Cai Tongshi is just like Ghoshha, who only has the place to stand behind Zuo Zongtang. "We need to ask foreigners for advice on foreign affairs." Zuo Zongtang said to Hu Xueyan: "I asked the general of Germany and the Japanese taxation department to get off the boat and have a look. I said that the imitation style is generally not bad, and the machine can work. It is difficult for them. However, if you want to If you go fast, you need to use Western engines. Admiral Desan happens to have an atlas of shipbuilding, so you might as well take a look." "Yes!" Hu Xueyan tentatively asked, "Your Excellency, what do you mean—?" "Listen to what they say first." Zuo Zongtang answered irrelevantly; then turned his head slightly, and told Cai Tongshi: "Ask them, I want to make Ship machinery, can they hire foreign craftsmen?" 于是蔡通事用法语传译。德克碑与日意格立即作答，一个讲过一另一个讲；舌头打卷，既快且急，显得十分起劲。“回大帅的话，”蔡通事说道：“德参将与日税务司说，不但可以代雇洋匠，而且愿意代办材料，设厂监造。如果大人有意，现在全浙军务告竣；德参将打算退伍回国，专门为大人奔走这件事。” “喔！”左宗棠点点头，向胡雪岩深深看了一眼。 胡雪岩会意，随即向两位洋客提出一连串的问询；最着重的是经费。德克碑与日意格亦只知大概，并不能有问必答。不过洋人倒是守着中国“知之为知之，不知为不知”的古训，决不模棱两可地敷衍。因此以胡雪岩的头脑，根据已知的确实数字，引伸推比，亦能获知全盘的概算。 这一顿饭吃到起更方散。左宗棠送走洋客，留下胡雪岩，邀到签押房里坐定，第一句话就说：“雪岩，我想自己造兵轮。”胡雪岩吓一跳，“这谈何容易？”他说，“造一个船厂，没有五十万银子下不来；造一条兵轮总也得二三十万银子——也不能为造一条兵轮设个船厂；不说多，算造十条，就是两三百万。闽浙两省，加上两江，也未见得有这个力量。”“不错！不过，你不要急；等我说完，你就知道我的打算不但办得通，而且非如此打算不可。雪岩，”左宗棠顾盼自喜地说，“李少荃的学问，是从阅历中来的，不过这几年的事；他点翰林，不过靠一部诗经熟。我做学问的时候，只怕他文章还没有完篇。说到汪洋大海中的艨艟巨舶，我从道光十九年起，就下过功夫——。” 这年林则徐在广东查毁鸦片，英国军舰犯境，爆发了鸦片战争；也就是这一年，陶澍病殁在两江总督任上，左宗棠迁居陶家，代为照料一切，得能遍读印心石屋的遗书，凡唐宋以来，史传、别录、小说；以及入清以后的志乘、载记、官私文书凡是有关海国故事的，无不涉猎。所以谈到“汪洋大海中的艨艟巨舶”，他不算全然外行。 “如今洋人的火轮兵船，于古无征；不过举一反三，道理是一样的。海船不可行于江河，不然必致搁浅。可笑的是，衮衮诸公，连这点浅近的道理都不懂，以致为洋人玩弄于股掌之上！说起来，李少荃的洋务，懂得实在也有限。” 这番话在胡雪岩听来，没头没脑，无从捉摸；他跟左宗棠的关系，已到熟不拘礼的程度，当即老实问道：“大人指的是哪件事？” “不就是咸丰末年跟英国买兵轮那件事吗？” “喔，我想起来了，是有那么一回事。当时杭州被围；后来杭州失守，我在宁波生一场大病，一切都隔膜了；只知有这样一件事，对来龙去脉，完全不清楚。” “我很清楚。这重公案的始末经过，我细看过全部奏折，可以约略跟你说个大概。是英国人李泰国与赫德捣鬼，英国代办中号火轮三只，小号火轮四只，船价讲定六十万银子，李泰国擅作主张，一加再加，加到一百零七万银子。至于火轮到后，轮上官兵薪饷、煤炭杂用，每个月要用十万银子。这还不算，火轮上的官兵，都要由英国人管带——。” “我打句岔，”胡雪岩截断了话问：“这为了什么？”“喏，你看看这个就知道了。” 左宗棠真是有心人，已将前几年购买英国兵轮的有关上谕与奏折，抄辑成册；这时随手翻开一篇，递给胡雪岩，让他自己去细看。 这一篇抄的是同治二年五月间，总理各国事务大臣恭亲王，及文祥等入会衔的奏折，一开头就说：窃臣等前以贼氛不清，力求制胜之方，因拟购买外洋炮船，以为剿贼之资，于咸丰十一年五月间专折奏明，奏上谕：“东南贼势蔓延，果能购买外洋炮船，剿赋必可得力，实于大局有益。”等因，钦此；遵即咨行各该督抚。 旋据两江督巨曾国藩复奏，“购买外洋船炮为今日救时第一要务。” 读到这里，就不必再往下看了。胡雪岩说道：“如用于剿贼，只须能航行长江的小炮艇；何致于要花到一百万银子？”“就是这话罗！衮衮诸公目贵目贵不明，于此可见。你看年这一篇！” 左宗棠指给胡雪岩看的是，同治二年八月下旬曾国荃的一道奏折，说的是： 查前后廷旨购办轮船七号，不惜巨资，幸而有成，闻皆将到海口矣！惟近见总理衙门与洋人李泰国商定往复；除轮船实价百万之外，所用西人兵士每月口粮七万余两，每年大率不下百万两，俱于海关支扣。窃计国家帑藏空虚，倏而岁增巨款，度支将益不给。 当始议购买之时，原以用中国人力，可以指挥自如，且其时长江梗塞，正欲借此巨器，以平巨寇。自今夏攻克九氵伏州，仰仗皇上威福，江路已通，江边之城，仅金陵省会，尚未恢复；然长江水师，帆樯如林，与陆军通力合作，一经合围，定可克期扫荡。 巨窍见轮船经过长江，每遇沙渚回互，或趋避不汲，时有胶浅之虞。盖江路狭窄，非若大海之得以施展如意。 譬犹健儿持长矛于短巷之中，左右前后，必多窒碍，其势之使然也。平时一线直行，犹且如此；临阵之际，何能盘旋往复，尽其所长？是大江之用轮船，非特势力少逊，究亦有术穷之时，今会其入江，实有不借彼战攻之力；若顿诸海口，则又安闲无所事事。 看到这里，亦可以掩卷了。购造大轮船，非是为了剿匪；当曾国荃上此奏折时，金陵将次合围；苏州亦正由李鸿章猛攻之中，大功之成，已有把握，曾国荃自然不想有人来分他的功。而况他所作的譬喻，如“健儿持长矛于短之中，左右前后，必多窒碍”，衡诸海轮和示范的实况亦甚贴切。朝廷正以李泰国狡诈，难以与谋；得此一奏，当然会毅然决然地，打消此议。 “然而，今昔异势，”左宗棠说：“福建沿海，非兵轮不足固疆圉、御外敌。雪岩，你以为如何？” “是！大人见得远。”胡雪岩答说，“督抚担当方面军务；如今内乱将平，外患不可不防。倘或外人由闽浙海面进犯，守土之责，全在大人。如果不作远图；虽不致于闹出叶大人在广东的那种笑话来，可也伤了大人的英名。” 所谓“叶大人”是指“不战不和不守，不死不降不走”，客死在印度的两广总督叶名琛。拿他作比，稍觉不伦；但就事论事，却是前车可鉴。左宗棠很起劲地说：“你说得一点不错！益见得我责无旁贷，雪岩，我决计要办船厂。”“只要经费有着，当然应该办。” “经费不必愁。当然购船，是由各海关分摊；如今当然仍照旧章。不过，闽浙两海关，格外要出力。” “那是一定的。不过——。”胡雪岩沉吟着不再说下去了。 左宗棠知道，遇到这种情形，便是胡雪岩深感为难，不便明说的表示；可是他也知道，到头来，难题在胡雪岩也一定会解消。最要紧的是，让他无所顾忌，畅所欲言。因此，他了以闲豫的神态，“不必急，我们慢慢谈。事情是势在必行，时间却可不限。”他神秘地一笑到，“等我这趟出兵以后，局面就完全掌握在我手里了；要紧要慢，收发由心。” 这最后两句话，颇为费解；就连胡雪岩这样机警的人，也不能不观色察言，细细去咀嚼其中的意味。 看到左宗棠那种成竹在胸，而又诡谲莫测的神态，胡雪岩陡然意会；所谓“要紧要慢、收发由心”，是指入闽剿匪的军务而言。换句话说，残余的长毛，他不但自信，必可肃清；并且肃清的日子，是远是近，亦有充分的把握，要远就远，要近就近。 这远近之间，完全要看他是怎么样一个打算？勤劳王事，急于立功，自是穷追猛打，克日可以肃清；倘或残余的长毛有可以利用之处，譬如借口匪势猖獗，要饷要兵，那就必然“养寇自重”了。 想到这里，就得先了解左宗棠的打算；“大人，”他问，“预备在福建做几年？” “问得好！”左宗棠有莫逆于心之乐；然后反问一句：“你看我应该在福建做几年？” “如果大人决心办船厂，当然要多做几年。” “我也是这么想。” “做法呢？”胡雪岩问，“总不能一直打长毛吧？”“当然，当然！釜底游魂，不堪一击；迁延日久，损我的威名。不过，也不必马到成功。”说到这里，左宗棠拈髭沉思；脸上的笑容尽敛，好久才点点头说：“你知道的，广东这个地盘非拿过来不可；兵事久斩，只看我那位亲家是不是见机？他肯急流勇退，我乐得早日克敌致果；不然就得多费些饷了。你懂我的意思吗？” “懂！”胡雪岩说，“我就是要明白了大人的意思，才可以为大人打算。” “那末，如今你是明白了？” 这是提醒胡雪岩该作打算了。他精神抖擞地答说：“只要广东能听大人的话，事情就好办了。我在想，将来大人出奏，请办船厂，象这样的大事，朝廷一定寄谕沿海各省督抚，各抒所见。福建、浙江不用说；如果广东奏复，力赞其成。大人的声势就可观了。” “正是！我必得拿广东拉到手，就是这个道理。南洋沿海有三省站在我这面；两江何敢跟我为难？” “两江亦不敢公开为难；必是在分摊经费上头做文章。说到办船厂的经费，由海关洋税项下抽拨，是天经地义的事。北洋的津海关，暂且不提；南洋的海关，包括广东在内，一共五大关：上海的江海关；广州的粤海关；福建的闽海关跟厦门关；我们浙江的宁波关。将来分摊经费，闽、厦两关以外，粤海关肯支持，就是五关占其三；浙江归大人管辖，马中丞亦不能不卖这个面子。这一来，两江方面莫非好说江海关一毛不拔？” “对了！你的打算合情合理；其间举足重轻的关键，就在广东。雪岩，我想这样，你把我这个抄本带回去，参照当年购船成例，好好斟酌，写个详细节略来；至于什么时候出奏，要等时机。照我想，总要广东有了着落，才能出奏。”“是的。我也是这么想。”胡雪岩说，“好在时间从容得很，一主面我先跟德克碑他们商量；一方面大致算一算经费的来源。至于筹备这件大事，先要用些款子，归我想办法来垫。”“好极！就这么办。不过，雪岩，江海关是精华所在；总不能让李少荃一直把持在那里！你好好想个法子，多挖他一点出来！” “法子有。不过，”胡雪岩摇摇头，“最好不用那个法子！”“为什么？” “用那个法子要挨骂。” “这你先不必管。请说，是何法子？” “可以跟洋人借债。”胡雪岩说，“借债要担保。江海关如说目前无款可拨，那末总有可拨的时候。我们就指着江海关某年某年收入的多少成数，作为还洋债的款，这就是担保。不过，天朝大国，向洋人借债；一定有人不以为然。那批都老爷群起而攻，可是件吃不消的事。” 这番话说得左宗棠发楞；接着站起身来踱了好一回方步；最后拿起已交在胡雪岩手里的“抄本”，翻到一页，指着说道：“你看看这一段！” 指的是恭亲王所上奏折中的一段，据李泰国向恭王面称：“中国如欲用银，伊能代向外国商人借银一千万两，分年带利归还。”可是恭王又下结论：“其请借银一千万两之说，中国亦断无此办法。” “大人请看，”胡雪岩指着那句话说：“朝中决不准借洋债。” “彼一时也，此一时也！”说到这里，左宗棠突然将话锋扯了开去，“雪岩，你要记住一件事；办大事最要紧的是拿主意！主意一拿定，要说出个道理来并不难；拿恭王的这个奏折来说，当时因为中国买船，而事事要听洋人的主张，朝中颇有人不以为然；恭王已有打退堂鼓的意思，所以才说中国断无借洋债的办法。倘或当时军务并无把握，非借重洋人的坚甲利炮不可；那时就另有一套话说了；第一、洋人愿意借债给中国，是仰慕天朝，自愿助顺；第二、洋人放债不怕放倒，正表示信赖中国，一定可以肃清洪杨，光复东南财赋之区，将来有力量还债。你想想，那是多好听的话，朝廷岂有不欣然许诺之理？” 这几句话，对胡雪岩来说，就是“学问”；心诚悦服地表示受教。而左宗棠亦就越谈越起劲了。 “我再你讲讲办大事的秘诀。有句成语，叫做'与其待时，不如乘势'；许多看起来难办的大事，居然顺顺利利地办成了，就因为懂得乘势的缘故。何谓势？雪岩，我倒考考你；你说与我听听，何谓势？” “这可是考倒我了。”胡雪岩笑道：“还是请大人教导吧！”“有些事，我要跟你请教；有些事我倒是当仁不让，可以教教你。谈到势，要看人、看事、还要看时。人这势者，势力；也就是小人势利之势。当初我几乎遭不测之祸，就因为湖广总督的官文的势力，比湖南巡抚路秉章来得大，朝中自然听他的。他要参我，容易得很。” “是的。同样一件事，原是要看什么人说。” “也要看说的是什么事？”左宗棠接口，“以当今大事来说，军务重于一切；而军务所急，肃清长毛余孽，又是首要，所以我为别的事说话，不一定有力量，要谈入闽剿匪，就一定会听我的。你信不信？” “怎么不信？信，信！” “我想你一定信得过。以我现在的身分，说话是够力量了；论事则还要看是什么事？在什么时候开口？时机把握得恰到好处，言听计从。说迟了自误；说早了无用。”左宗棠笑道：“譬如撵我那位亲家，现在就还不到时候。” “是的。”胡雪岩脱口答道，“要打到福建、广东交界的地方，才是时候。” 左宗棠大笑，笑完了正色说道：“办船厂一事，要等军务告竣，筹议海防，那才是一件事。但也要看时机。不过，我们必得自己有预备，才不会坐失时机。你懂我的意思了吧？” 胡雪岩不但懂他的意思，而且心领神会，比左宗棠想得更深更远。结合大局，左宗棠的勋名前程，和他自己的事业与利益，了解了一件事：左宗棠非漂漂亮亮地打胜仗不可！这是一个没有东西可以代替的关键。 由于这个了解，他决定了为左宗棠办事的优先顺序；不过，这当然先要征得同意，因而这样说道：“大人的雄心壮志，我都能体会得到；到什么时候该办什么事，我亦大致有数，事先会得预备。如今我要请问大人的是，这趟带兵剿匪，最着重的是什么？” 这句话将左宗棠问住了；想了一会答道：“自然是饷！”“饷我可以想法子垫。不过，并不是非我不可；各处协饷，能够源源报解，何必我来垫借，多吃利息？” “啊，我懂你的话了。”左宗棠说，“工欲善其事，必先利其器；兵坚而器不利，则能守而不能攻。我要西洋精良兵器，多多益善；雪岩，这非你不可！” “是！愚见正是如此。”胡雪岩欣慰地答说：“我替大人办事，第一是采办西洋兵器，不必大人嘱咐，我自会留意。至于炮弹子药，更不在话下；决不让前方短缺。第二是饷，份内该拨的数目，不管浙江藩库迟拨早拨，我总替大人预备好。至于额外用款，数目不大，当然随时都有；如果数目太大，最好请大人预先嘱咐一声，免得措手不及。此外办造厂之类，凡是大人交代过的，我都会一样一样办到；请大人不必费心，不必催，我总不误时机就是。” “好极了！”左宗棠愉悦异常，“汉高成功，功在萧何。我们就这样说了；你尽管放手去做，一切有我担待。”