The Surging Waves Pavilion was located in the south of Suzhou. It was originally the residence of Sun Chengyou, the military governor of Wuyue during the Five Dynasties. At the beginning of the Song Dynasty, Su Shunqin bought it for 40,000 strings of coins. He replaced it with trees and surrounded the mountain to create water. It covered an area of 16 mu, making it even more spectacular. He renamed it the Surging Waves Pavilion. In the Southern Song Dynasty, it was Han Shizhong's residence. It had already been more than 600 years.
The Surging Waves Pavilion was surrounded by water. One could see the scenery before entering the garden. It could be said to be unique in the Suzhou gardens. It was already early spring, the second month of Jiangnan. As soon as one entered the garden, spring flowers could be seen everywhere. The spring breeze blew, the spring water flowed, lingering between the pavilions, the clouds, the smoke, the white walls and the black tiles. It was really a casual look at the scenery everywhere.
Even the Emperor and Princesses had never seen such a magnificent place before. The imperial gardens were particular about the atmosphere, and the Jiangnan gardens were also a different world. Everywhere was exquisite. Every blade of grass, every tree, every pavilion, every stone and every drop of water were all exquisitely carved. It made one's heart feel at ease.
As soon as the three princesses arrived, they immediately fell in love with this place. Looking at it, if it wasn't for the fact that they had to return to the north, they would definitely buy it and make it their own. As soon as they entered the garden, the three princesses excitedly held hands and toured around. Yang Ling and Gu Daeyong also accompanied the Emperor as he wandered around.
In the end, they came to the southernmost part of the Surging Waves Pavilion. Gu Daeyong pointed to a three-storey building hidden by the tall bamboo that looked like a fairyland. He said respectfully: "Your Majesty, this place is called Mountain View Building. This is where you will live."
Coming to such an elegant place, even Emperor Zhengde seemed to be infected with some scholarly air. He smiled and nodded: "Very well, beloved concubine, what do you think of this place?"
Tang Yixian also sighed in admiration: "This garden has scenery everywhere. It is exquisite beyond compare. No matter where you live, it will be like a fairyland. Suzhou really lives up to its reputation as a paradise on earth."
Yang Ling smiled and turned his head to Gu Daeyong to ask: "Gu gonggong, have the residences of the three princesses been arranged?"
Gu Daeyong smiled apologetically: "Yes, the three princesses will live in the lotus flower water pavilion. Once His Majesty's residence is settled, the Old Slave will immediately go there. "
Zhengde said excitedly, "I don't need to make any arrangements. I haven't seen enough of the scenery in this garden. Xian Er, let's walk around. It's very useful. Go and arrange the accommodations for the three princesses. Oh, right, Official Yang is also staying in the Surging Waves Pavilion.
"Yes, Your Majesty." Gu Daeyong bowed respectfully to send them off, Emperor Zhengde excitedly held Tang Yixian's hand, the two of them walked side by side into the depths of the forest filled with flowers and trees, tall and slender bamboos.
The garden was surrounded by water on three sides, but the water was outside the garden. The garden was famous for its mountain scenery, and there were all kinds of rare trees everywhere. Even a random stone on the side of the path was carefully selected and placed appropriately, making people forget about their surroundings.
Seeing the Emperor and the Imperial Concubine leave, Gu Daeyong straightened his back and raised his thumb in praise: "It's still Duke who understands His Majesty's thoughts. His Majesty is very satisfied with this garden. If His Majesty is happy, our family will be happy."
Yang Ling chuckled and said: "Yes, I don't know how much money Gonggong spent. Report the amount to me later so I can pay the bill."
It turned out that Yang Ling hadn't just temporarily requisitioned this garden, but had paid money to buy it. Hearing this, Gu Daeyong shook his hands and said: "Duke is too polite. It's just a small garden, it's not worth mentioning. Uh … I won't hide it from Duke, this garden has already become a monastery, so it was very easy to buy. It didn't cost much in the first place. Is there a need for us and Duke to separate? "
As Gu Daeyong spoke, he took out a title deed from his sleeve and shoved it into Yang Ling's hand with a smile. A famous garden, like this, became the property of the Yang Family.
Yang Ling said a few words before accepting the title deed with a smile and putting it into his sleeve. He knew that Gu Daeyong was in charge of maritime affairs in Jiangnan. Regardless of whether it was foreign or domestic merchants, the rich and powerful, they all had to deal with him. Even if he didn't want to be greedy, the money he received was piled up like a mountain. Taking his profits, Yang Ling didn't feel uneasy at all.
Seeing Yang Ling accept the title deed, Gu Daeyong's wrinkled face broke into a smile. The one who received the gift was happy, and the one who gave the gift was also happy. Sometimes, this world couldn't be predicted with common sense.
At this time, Gu Daeyong carefully asked, "Duke, did the Emperor come to Su Hang this time to stroll around and admire the scenery of Jiangnan, or did he have other intentions? What do you think we need to pay attention to?"
Yang Ling smiled and walked along the corridor with Gu Daeyong, walking between the mountains and rivers, flowers and plants. Following the bamboo forest, the Taoist arrived at an elegant pavilion, "Jadeite Linglong". This pavilion's door had a couplet: "Autumn enters the forest red and dim, the moonlight passes through Jadeite Linglong."
Walking into the room, they saw that the windows were bright and clean. The mahogany furniture was decorated with bamboo knots, and there was a couplet hanging in the room: "The wind is like a bamboo flute, the flowing water is like a zither."
The two of them walked into the room and sat down on two official hats. Yang Ling then said, "The Emperor's trip to the south this time is to destroy King Ning's rebellion. Now that King Ning's rebellion has been quelled, the Emperor naturally wants to visit this paradise on earth."
Hearing that the Emperor had only come to Su Hang for sightseeing, Gu Daeyong's expression instantly relaxed. But he heard Yang Ling continue, "However, Gonggong must know that the Emperor is growing up day by day, working hard to govern, and has great ambitions. The Emperor has implemented new policies in court, and the whole country has changed. So don't look at him bringing the Imperial Concubine and Princess. The Emperor is most concerned about the development of Jiangnan, especially Su Hang. "
Gu Daeyong immediately became nervous again. Right now, he was the eunuch guarding Suzhou and the Governor of the Maritime yamen. If the Emperor wasn't satisfied with his government affairs, he would have to hand over this fat job to someone else. Gu Daeyong hurriedly said nervously, "Then, what is the Emperor's concern about? I hope that Duke will give me some pointers. "
Yang Ling smiled and said, "Naturally, it's weaving, porcelain, silk, tea, and shipping. These are all important matters that affect the national economy and the people's livelihood. How are the operations in these areas? How's the output? How's the annual profit? Are there any other problems, and so on. Of course, you also need to make arrangements for the weaving workshops. The Emperor will definitely go and take a look. "
Gu Daeyong panicked and hurriedly stood. He said helplessly, "I don't know that the Emperor, other than King Ning, will come to Su Hang to inspect these things. If I mention everything else, what should I do?"
Yang Ling saw that he was panicking and said with a smile, "Why is Gonggong Gu in such a hurry? How about this, tomorrow I will accompany the Emperor to walk around the city and appreciate the customs and customs of Suzhou. I will delay it for two or three days for you. Use this time to quickly prepare. You must memorize all the information. When the Emperor asks, you must answer fluently. When the Emperor sees that you are diligent, he will definitely appreciate you. "
"Yes, yes, yes. Good, good, good." Gu Daeyong hurriedly said and turned to run out the door. He suddenly remembered that the three princesses had not been arranged and he was in a terrible hurry.
Yang Ling saw his flustered look and smiled as he stood up, saying: "Eunuch Gu, you are working in Suhang. This is the first port of call for the Great Ming Dynasty to face the sea. You cannot only provide the emperor with information about the economic situation in the area around Suhang. You have to understand more, and even the products and operations of other places, so that you can provide the emperor with some unique insights and suggestions. I believe that other than you, Eunuch Gu, holding down the fort here, no one else can shake the Great Ming's maritime yamen."
Gu Dayong slapped his forehead and said, "That's right, I can't just care about my own little plot of land. His Majesty's eyes are on the whole world. Thank you very much for your reminder, I … I …"
He suddenly took out a large roll of banknotes from his sleeve and shoved it into Yang Ling's hand. He said, "I will immediately gather people to make all kinds of preparations. I will have to trouble Gonggong to accompany the Emperor for a few more days in the city. Gonggong, please take this bit of silver. If you see anything interesting in the city, just buy it. I have to busy myself with this matter and cannot follow. I will have to trouble Gonggong with everything. "
"No need to be so courteous, there is no need to distinguish between us." Yang Ling said with a smile, "Gonggong, go do what you need to do. Leave the matters of the garden to me. In a while, I will arrange for Jiang Bin and the others to set up security around the Canglang Pavilion and then go settle the residences of the three princesses. Do not worry, with me here, no one will say that you are slow in taking care of the Emperor, the Imperial Consort, and the princesses."
Gu Daeyong was moved to the point of tears. He said, "Gonggong treats me very well. Words cannot express my gratitude!"
He cupped his hands and kowtowed twice to Yang Ling. Lifting his robe, he rushed out in a hurry.
Yang Ling watched him leave with a smile. He then lifted his leg out of the 'Cui Ling Long' and walked along the compound corridor. The slender bamboos swayed, the new branches sprouted green, and the flowers bloomed. It was too beautiful to behold. Walking along the compound corridor, it was winding, light, and serene. On the walls of the corridor, there were many windows with all kinds of patterns. Not one was the same. It was truly a work of art that surpassed nature.
Yang Ling walked to the lotus flower waterside pavilion. He saw the small courtyard in front of the pavilion was filled with flowers and trees. The beech trees were lush. North of the window was a simple tree that was more than enough for a person to wrap their arms around it. North of the pavilion, there were lotus flowers in the stream. The clear water gurgled. Yang Ling looked for a long time with his hands behind his back. Suddenly, he raised his hand and clapped. Immediately, two people appeared out of nowhere and cupped their fists to greet him.
Yang Ling asked, "Where are the three Princesses now?"
One of them replied respectfully, "The three Highnesses are at the fish watching place."
Yang Ling smiled and said, "Lead me there."
Walking southeast, he passed the 'Wonderful Fragrance Room' and passed the 'Idle Chant Pavilion'. He arrived at the 'Fish Watching Place'. He saw a pavilion that faced the water. Beside the pavilion, there were weeping willows that touched the water, creating slight ripples. The pavilion faced the waves, its shadow reflected in the clear lake. Coincidentally, there were three enchanting beauties that were as slender as willows swaying in the wind watching the fish.
The small pavilion was simple and unadorned. The four eaves of the pavilion looked like swallows flying over the water. The water of the stream was clear and limpid, like a pool of jade. Fishes played on the clear ripples, their reflections reflected on the water. As Yang Ling walked closer, he saw that the beauties and the scenery matched each other. Unexpectedly, he could not bear to go closer.
Among the three of them, Yongfu was the tallest. Yang Ling saw that she was wearing a light yellow dress, a silver-red bikini, a white skirt that trailed the ground, and a green plum blossom ribbon tied around her waist. Her waist was slender, reflecting against the water. Her hair was jet-black, her beautiful shadow swaying gracefully. Yang Ling was lost in his own thoughts. Princess Yongfu who was watching the fish suddenly sensed something. She turned her head and met Yang Ling's eyes.
She saw that Yang Ling was standing not far away, looking at her in a daze. Princess Yongfu could not help but lower her head shyly and smiled sweetly. In an instant, her cheeks turned as red as a peach. She bit her lip and raised her eyes to look at Yang Ling. She had a smile that was not a smile. Her jade-like fingers gently twirled the hair on her chest. That shyness of a young girl was dignified and charming. It was really indescribably moving.
Yang Ling's heart swayed when he saw it. He only thought in his heart, "Princess Xiuning treats me with deep affection. No matter what, I cannot let her down again. Who cares about the rules of the royal family? This time, I must make the arrangements. This mermaid, I must have it!"
※ ※ ※
Suzhou's municipal administration was the best in the world. Not only were the rivers in and out of the city intertwined, it could be used for transportation and washing. There were hundreds of ditches and the water flowed smoothly. The roads were also paved with small stones. Even on a rainy day, one's feet would not get wet. That was why there was a saying, "On rainy days, one can wear red embroidered shoes".
"Orioles at the entrance of Huangyan Alley wish to speak. The ice at the head of the Black Magpie River wishes to melt. Green waves in the east, west, south, north and south. Red railings on three hundred and ninety bridges. " The alleyway was elegant, pleasant and filled with a quiet atmosphere. Walking on the quiet, clear stone path, looking at the exquisite brick gate tower, the deep rope grooves in the stone well, the mottled flower windows, the exquisite and beautiful courtyard and the style of the buildings built near the water. It was really a beautiful scene that was hard to see.
However, Emperor Zhengde and Yang Ling felt unspeakably bitter. Calyx Lane, Jianjia Lane, Lotus Lane, Yingxiao Lane, Peach Blossom Dock, Big Willow Branch Lane … Who knew that when these seemingly delicate and timid young girls strolled the streets, their jade-like feet had such great strength and strength?
Master Zhu and Master Yang each held a small golden fan in their hands. Now they wished that the fan could become a walking stick. They walked so hard that their legs were about to break. But Tang Yixian and the three princesses still seemed to be in high spirits. They had no intention of going back, nor did they have the consciousness of getting on the sedan chair to leave.
The two looked at each other helplessly. They were young, they couldn't let the palace guards disguised as servants to help them walk, right?
Zhengde walked near Yang Ling and said with a frown on his face: "Subject Yang, your meimei really knows how to move. Next time, zhen won't accompany them to go shopping no matter what."
Yang Ling smiled bitterly and said: "Your Majesty, the strength of your three royal meimei's legs aren't weak either. This official's legs are about to break from walking. "
The four beauties in front chatted as they walked. Just as they were in high spirits, they suddenly found that the two masters responsible for taking out the money had disappeared. Tang Yixian turned her head to look and couldn't help but say angrily: "Hey, you two, why are you walking slower and slower?"
Zhengde sighed and was about to chase after them when Yang Ling suddenly pulled on his sleeve. He pointed to the side with his mouth and said: "Your Majesty, look, there's an art gallery. Let's go in and let the painters draw portraits of the Imperial Consort and the three princesses. Hee hee, after four portraits, we'll definitely be able to rest. "
Zhengde's eyes lit up and he praised: "Good! Subject Yang is really crafty. Quick, quickly chase them back, zhen doesn't have the strength to walk anymore. "
When the four beauties heard that they didn't want to walk anymore, they were a little unhappy at first. But when they heard that they were going to ask the painters to draw their portraits, they happily agreed.
Flags fluttered outside the small building but it was cold and quiet inside. It seemed that business was not good today. At that time, it had long been a custom for Gusu's painters to make a living by painting and the price was very high. Thus, the Wu School of Painting was born. The custom of Suhang was to earn money based on one's ability. They didn't care that poems and essays were elegant things and couldn't be tainted by money. Clearly marked prices were righteous and confident.
Seeing that there were many guests coming in and from the way they were dressed, it was obvious that they were from rich families. The old man who was dozing off on the table couldn't help but squint his eyes and straighten his back. Two young apprentices came forward to welcome them: "Two gongzi, ladies, please come in. Please take a seat, this lowly one will immediately make tea for you."
Zhengde and Yang Ling snatched a chair at the same time and sat down. Then they stretched their legs and groaned as they gasped for breath. The four ladies rolled their eyes at these two ungentlemanly fellows and leisurely went to another table and sat down.
The apprentice quickly served tea. Only then did the old man slowly stand up and say, "Young Masters and Young Ladies, welcome to my humble shop. This old man's seals are hung on the four walls. You can take a look at them yourself. Each seal is fifty copper coins, no bargaining."
Yang Ling moistened his throat and said with a smile: "Old mister, we don't want the paintings hanging on the four walls. I wonder if you are good at drawing people..."
A young apprentice beside him blurted out: "Of course, my master is the best at drawing people. Even when Tang Yin was alive, he might not be better than my master in this aspect."
The old man glared at him and said with a reserved smile: "There are also paintings of beautiful ladies hanging on the four walls. Gentlemen..."
Yang Ling shook his head and said: "It's not like this. We want to ask you to draw a portrait of each of these four ladies. What do you think?"
The old man was a little surprised. He turned his head to look at the four ladies sitting at the table and slowly nodded: "Yes, but it takes a long time to draw a portrait..."
Zhengde was overjoyed. As long as he could drag it out for a day, the longer the better. He hurriedly said: "It doesn't matter. As long as your painting has both form and spirit, it doesn't matter how long it takes."
The old man smiled and said: "Okay, but these paintings are not for fifty copper coins per painting."
Zhengde generously said: "It doesn't matter. You tell me, how much for one painting?"
The old man looked at these people who were dressed extravagantly and talked generously. He gathered his courage and said: "I... I want one painting for a hundred copper coins."
"No problem!" Zhengde waved his hand and generously said: "One painting for one tael of silver! Brother Wan Nian, you pay the bill. "
Yang Ling laughed dryly and said to the old man whose eyes were wide open in surprise: "Uh... this Young Master Zhu has a habit of increasing the price. Okay! One tael of silver per painting. Old Mister, you can start now. "
The old man's spirit was lifted. He really met a prodigal today. One tael of silver per painting, there was nothing he wouldn't be willing to do. The old man immediately ordered his two disciples to lay out the brush, ink, paper, inkstone, and various colors of paint. The old man took out something from his arms and slowly hung it over his eyes. He then walked to the back of the table and sat down. He smiled and said: "Which lady wants to paint first?"
At first, Yang Ling didn't care. He lowered his head and drank two mouthfuls of tea. When he looked up and saw the old man's appearance, he almost sprayed the tea all over Zhengde's face. Yang Ling pointed at the old man in surprise and said: "This... Old Mister, what are you wearing over your eyes?"
The old man was startled. Before he could answer, Zhengde smiled and said: "This is a Suan Bi. It can be worn by people with blurred eyesight in old age. It can help them see clearly and increase their eyesight."
Yang Ling was dumbstruck. When he was building the navy, he thought that if he had a telescope, his eyesight would be many times better than the enemy's. He didn't know how useful it would be to predict the enemy's movements on the sea and strike first. But he remembered that at that time he hadn't seen glass that could be used to make a convex lens, so he could only give up on the idea.
Who knew... who knew that the common people already had glasses. Then how hard would it be to make a telescope? If they had this thing, not just on the sea, even on the prairies, the Ming Army with eyes that could see thousands of miles would be able to seize many opportunities when fighting against their enemies who were blind.
The reason that the telescope hadn't been made was because no one in this era understood its principles. But Yang Ling knew its principles but didn't know how to make glass.
Yang Ling was overjoyed and quickly walked over. "Old Mister, can you give this pair of glasses... uh, this Suan Bi for student to take a look?"
Zhengde smiled and said: "Do you want this thing? When we get back to the Palace... when we get back, I'll give you a few. "
Yang Ling almost fainted. So the Palace also had this thing? If he had told someone about the idea of the telescope, maybe someone would have immediately reminded him that the world already had the materials to make this kind of Suan Bi. He usually didn't have the chance to come into contact with these things. He didn't expect to see it here by accident.
Yang Ling couldn't resist and took the glasses from the old man's hands. He looked at it carefully for a long time and confirmed that it was a lens before returning it. The old man had two oval lenses that were fixed with iron wire to make a frame. But the legs hadn't been invented yet, so there were holes pierced on the sides of the lenses and a silk thread. When in use, it hung over the ears.
Yang Ling clicked his tongue in wonder and returned to the table to sit down. He asked Zhengde about it. So the glasses had existed in China since ancient times. According to ancient records, someone first discovered that there was a mosquito in a resin crystal. Looking through the resin, the mosquito's body was magnified. This attracted the attention of craftsmen and they used the natural crystal to make a convex lens.
Zhu Houzhao had read a lot of miscellaneous books, and did not know much about serious matters. He had read a lot of these miscellaneous things, and there were a lot of unique books in the palace. As he drank his tea, he looked at the old man's portrait of Tang Yixian and showed off a little.
It turned out that as early as the Warring States Period, the 15th volume of the Mohist contained many of Mohist's research on light and flat, convex and concave mirrors. Before Qin unified the six states, the ancients knew how to use lenses to make fire. In the early years of the Eastern Han Dynasty, Zhang Heng discovered the waxing and waning of the moon and the initial cause of lunar and solar eclipses. It was also with the help of lenses.
In the Song Dynasty, there were scholars who used crystal lenses to improve their eyesight. In the Yuan Dynasty, even the Mongols knew how to use this kind of thing. It was spread to Venice by a person called Marco Polo and then spread to the whole of Europe. In the years of Ming Destiny and Xuande, presbyopic glasses were invented. But because the crystal was precious and not easy to obtain, it was used as an important gift. Usually it was given by the Emperor to the old ministers, so Zhengde knew about it very well.
But because it didn't have the legs, it was not easy to carry around. The ministers didn't bring it when they went to court. When they returned home and used it in the study, Yang Ling didn't know. He couldn't remember to ask and no one told him. How could an ordinary family afford to buy this kind of thing. The old painter painted this item for an old madam of a rich family. It was so lifelike that the head of the family gave him such an expensive thing. Coincidentally, it was discovered by Yang Ling now.
Yang Ling happily told Zhengde about the function of the two lenses to create a farsighting effect. Zhengde was dumbstruck. He really couldn't think that two pieces of crystal could have the effect of farsighting. If it wasn't for the unbearable soreness in his legs and the fact that Tang Yixian was holding her cheek with her hand, happily waiting for the old man to paint for her, he would have long pulled Yang Ling back and asked someone to immediately make this magical thing for him to enjoy.
That old man seemed to be an expert in painting people. When Tang Yixian's portrait was finished, it was actually much faster than expected. When the coloring was finished, Tang Yixian saw her own appearance vividly on the paper. She was in high spirits as if she was about to break out of the paper. She couldn't help but be extremely happy. The three princesses were even more moved when they saw it. Yongfu was already sitting on her seat, happily waiting for the painter to continue painting for her.
Yang Ling and Emperor Zhengde drank tea and chatted. When it came to Princess Yongchun, the two had already rested. They casually paced around the room, admiring the paintings on the four walls. Yang Ling was gazing at a profound landscape painting in a daze. Zhengde walked to the table and casually flipped through it. Suddenly, he excitedly waved his hand and said: "Wan nian xiong, come quickly."
Yang Ling quickly walked over. He saw Zhengde look mysteriously at the Imperial Consort and his sister who were focused on admiring the portrait. Then he made a gesture for them to hurry over. Yang Ling went over to take a look. He saw two booklets on the table. One was written "Chun Shui Mu". The other was half flipped and half closed by Zhengde. He could only see the two characters "Yuanyang" on it.
"It's a painting album …" Yang Ling had only said these three words when Zhengde had already used his eyes to quickly stop him. Then he coughed and put on the appearance of a gentleman. He said: "Ah, wan nian xiong, what do you think of this painting?"
Yang Ling came forward. Zhengde opened the painting album. It was a erotic painting. A junior apprentice came forward with a smile: "Gongzi, this is the work of my teacher. Originally there was a Tang Yin who was as famous as my teacher. Ever since that person went to Japan, this erotic painting …"
"Cough!" Yang Ling's expression also changed. With a righteous expression, he said: "Don't talk too much. We'll just admire it ourselves."
The junior apprentice saw that the two were trying to cover it up and couldn't help but find it funny. In reality, erotic paintings were not something shameful in the Ming Dynasty. Not only did scholars like to admire them, even the ladies of noble families would draw them. For the lack of sex education at that time, these things not only played the role of imparting knowledge, but there were also people who used them to spice up the boudoir and treat some psychological ailments.
At that time, Jiangnan, which was the culture near the capital, did not discriminate against erotic paintings. However, Zhengde and Yang Ling's status were different. In addition, if the four beauties found out, it would inevitably be a little embarrassing. Therefore, the two did not dare to say anything. Inevitably, they were ridiculed by the junior apprentice. If not for the two's accent, they knew that they were nobles from the north, they would have thought that they were from the Northwest Wilderness.
Zhengde opened the first painting and saw a tree of spring flowers. A bamboo fence separated the water. The setting sun was bright, and half of the river was rustling. On the bank of the bamboo bed, a half-naked man was lying on his back. A graceful woman wearing only a small garment was sitting on top of him shyly. The mood was beautiful. There was even a poem on it: "Stop and sit to love the maple forest at night".
Flipping through the second picture, it was a glimpse of the spring scene in a boudoir through a screen window. A man and a woman were lying on the bed, and beside them, another woman was gently taking off her clothes. The third picture was in the courtyard. A young woman was lying in the arms of another beautiful woman, and a man was leaning over her. Every picture was accompanied by a poem, and the artistic conception was elegant and beautiful, making one feel as if they were in the scene.
Zhengde's face turned red. He swallowed his saliva and cleared his throat. He pointed to the booklet and said: "This, how much?"
The junior apprentice hurriedly came over and smiled: "Young master, this booklet has a total of sixteen paintings. You need …"
He originally wanted to say five taels of silver. But he remembered that this young master was extremely generous. He spent money like water. He stretched out his palm and flipped it over and over. He said: "This amount."
"Oh!" Zhengde did not make a sound. With his back facing Tang YiXian and the three royal sisters, he hid the booklet in his sleeve. He stretched out a finger and pointed at Yang Ling. Then he nonchalantly raised his head and looked at the painting of a pine plum crane on the wall. He was extremely engrossed in it.
Yang Ling looked at the erotic painting. He casually flipped through the book on the table. It was indeed a erotic painting. He quickly reached into his sleeve and took out a banknote worth a hundred taels of silver. He handed it to the junior apprentice. His heart was thumping. He said softly: "That's all. Keep the change."
The junior apprentice opened it. His mouth was agape. It was rare to see these two prodigal masters. The junior apprentice did not say anything. He immediately took out three more books from the bottom of the cupboard. He said mysteriously: "Young master, there are three more. That's all. It will take a month to finish one. Do you want them? Three. It's still the same amount. "
Yang Ling had the same feeling as the first time he bought porn. He was afraid that the princesses would find out. He quickly took the books and stuffed them into his sleeve. He then handed over another banknote. Zheng De pulled his sleeve and the two brothers left. They walked side by side to a painting of mandarin ducks playing in the water at the corner of the wall. While looking up at the painting, Zheng De said softly, "How many more books are there? Give me two more. "
Yang Ling stood next to him with his big sleeves, and quietly passed two books over. Zheng De hid them and said, "Cough, remember to exchange the two books with me after you've finished reading them."
After Zhengde finished, the two brothers exchanged glances. They laughed sinisterly. They turned around and said to Tang YiXian: "Are you done admiring? Come. Let me see your portrait. "
At this time, Yongchun had finished the portrait. She jumped up and smiled: "Gege. Where are we going to play tomorrow?"
"Ah!" Zhengde was shocked. He said with a grin: "Are we still going out tomorrow?"
Yang Ling rushed over. He coughed and said: "Tomorrow? It's already arranged. Let's go to the theater. Hahaha. Listen to the Kunqu Opera!"
※ ※ ※
Three days later, Gu Gonggong valiantly and energetically came to see the emperor.
Miracles could happen at any time. In three days, the ignorant and incompetent Eunuch Gu had become a strategist who could answer questions fluently.
In Ming Dao Hall, Emperor Zhengde sat in the middle. Tang YiXian, the three princesses and Yang Ling sat on the left and right. Looking at Gu Gonggong holding his head high and chest out, talking with confidence and composure, he looked like Zhuge Liang in the Kunqu opera. Tang YiXian could not help but smile. She whispered to Yongfu. Yongfu saw that Gu Daeyong's posture was really interesting. She could not help but smile.
"Oh, so you're saying that even fans, mats, copper incense burners, hemp handkerchiefs, rattan utensils, stone inscriptions, and framing are being produced on a large scale by wealthy gentry?" Emperor Zhengde was listening attentively; he interrupted.
"Yes, in this way, not only the output is very high, it can meet the large demand of Japan, Korea, Ryukyu, Luzon and even Nanyang countries. And the cost is reduced to a very low level. Those foreign countries can not compare with us in quality. Even if they deliberately lower the price, they still can't compete with us. Businessmen from all countries are flocking to our Ming Destiny products."
Gu Dayong's eyes were red from staying up all night memorizing information, and he confidently said, "In order to purchase goods from nearby, these vassal states have set up resident merchant organizations in Suzhou, Hangzhou, and Changzhou. Our Great Ming Dynasty's various prefectures have also set up a large number of local chambers of commerce to provide a variety of goods. Now, some reputable, large-scale workshops and merchants have already produced credit payments, and the bill banks have many new tricks in terms of agency, exchange, and credit."
He glanced at Yang Ling and said with a smile: "The Duke once provided a new way of keeping accounts to the Old Slave and sent a few accounting masters who are familiar with this way of keeping accounts. It is much better than the traditional way. Now it has been promoted in Jiangnan. All major merchants use this way of keeping accounts."
Yang Ling smiled and interrupted: "Suzhou's weaving is the best in the world and is also an important source of taxes in Suzhou. You may want to explain the situation in detail to Your Majesty."
Gu Daeyong's spirit was lifted. This was what he was most proud of. Yang Ling could be considered to have scratched his itch. Gu Daeyong said: "Suzhou's weaving is exquisite. The only problem is that after the opening of the sea and trade, the raw materials and output are insufficient.
The Old Slave organized the weaving households and used the method of shareholding to unite the weavers who each owned a dozen or dozens of looms. Now they have set up four factories dedicated to weaving. The Wuhu area has also set up professional large dyeing and weaving workshops. The weaving workshop specializes in weaving, the dyeing workshop specializes in dyeing, and the weaving workshop specializes in pressing.
Each of these factories has more than 3,000 weavers. In a year, they can produce 19 million bolts of cotton and 450,000 bolts of silk. But because of the huge demand from both inside and outside of Ming Destiny, the supply still cannot meet the demand. The prices keep rising. These factories originally wanted to continue to expand production, but there is not enough raw materials.
Now if they want to make more money, they can only reduce the cost as much as possible. So these factories have specially organized some experienced old machinists and weavers to research and improve the looms and spinning wheels. At present, they have researched and developed a multi-spindle spinning wheel and a three-layer loom. The cotton seeding mixer originally needed two people to operate, but now it has been greatly improved. One person can be used as three or four people. In addition, there are many kinds of special looms such as silk, silk, luo, yarn, and silk machines. "
Emperor Zhengde was overjoyed. Yang Ling was also very excited. The division of labor is getting more detailed, the scale is getting bigger, and the technology is getting higher. With the arrival of the western countries, the demand is further increasing. The time for large-scale industrial production is not far away.
But the problem of raw materials is obviously more important at this time. He hurriedly asked: "Then how do we solve the problem of raw materials? If this problem is not solved, it will inevitably affect the further development. You must know that now the western countries have come to our country to discuss business. The flow of goods will inevitably increase. The lack of raw materials will restrict the development too much. "
Gu Daeyong said: "Now there are already rich gentlemen in Shandong and Henan who have contacted and ordered in advance the amount of mulberry cotton to be planted this year. They will pay a deposit in advance and deliver it after autumn. If there is not enough locally, they will supply it from other prefectures. At the same time, the production of silk and cotton still has problems such as low output and heavy consumption.
The prefectural magistrate of Hangzhou, Yan Song, has specially applied for a sum of money from the maritime yamen to recruit skilled craftsmen, to study the improvement of silkworm rearing and silk reeling, to select the best silkworm eggs to cultivate, to select the best mulberry seeds, to study the prevention and cure of silkworm disease, and to improve the methods of silkworm rearing, cocoon spinning, and silk reeling. Once these things are perfected, the output of raw materials can be increased by several times, and the consumption can be reduced by several times.
Zhengde's face also showed an expression of approval. He nodded his head. He suddenly remembered that there was an official who accused Jiangnan of vigorously developing the industry and commerce. The limited manpower was invested in these industries for the sake of profit, and the land was abandoned to grow mulberry. He was afraid that this matter would harm the country. At that time, he was able to toss this matter aside and did not mention it. Now he wanted to understand these matters.
After Zhengde finished asking, Gu Daeyong couldn't help but stare blankly for a moment. He had only been thinking about how to show off his merits, and did not think about the detrimental effects on other industries. Just now he had been talking incessantly, but now that the Emperor had asked him, he had nothing to say. Gu Daeyong had just turned his pleading gaze towards Yang Ling when Yang Ling took a sip of tea. He chuckled and said: "Your Majesty, this problem is easy to solve. Not only does Gu Gonggong know, but this official also knows the details."
The princesses had been listening to these important matters of the country and were about to fall asleep. As soon as they heard Yang Ling speak, Yongfu and Princess Xiang'er became alert. Two pairs of bright eyes turned and poured over his body.
Yang Ling leisurely said: "Your Majesty, the area from Shanghai to Taicang was originally a piece of barren land, but now it has been developed into a large cotton factory. In addition, the cotton and mulberry planting in Shandong and Henan is gradually becoming popular, and can provide a large amount of raw materials. With the addition of improved processes and technology to reduce wastage, it can fully satisfy the needs of Jiangnan's weaving industry.
As for manpower, the Great Ming Dynasty currently wanted to develop agriculture, industry, and commerce, but the population was indeed greatly insufficient. Moreover, cotton production required more than twice the manpower of ordinary grain crops, and sericulture production required more than ten times the manpower. However, to say that the Great Ming Dynasty had shifted all of its manpower to these areas was an exaggeration and an alarmist.
Because growing rice and cotton in Jiangnan is not only different in terms of labor hours, but their labor is also completely different. Cotton and mulberry planting are mainly the old, weak, women, and children. In the situation where there is no mulberry to grow, other than the residents in the tea area who can be hired to pick tea, the others can only stay at home and do nothing. Now that they have something to do, not only can they earn income for their families, but their family status will also rise. This is exactly what they want. "
"If you want to be the hegemon of the world, the development of industry and commerce is the only way. Blindly restricting cotton and mulberry is not desirable. It is a fact that cotton and mulberry can make money. Can the court force the people not to grow mulberry and cotton? We can't give up eating for fear of choking, we can only find another solution. Eunuch Gu, now Jiangnan imports a lot of food from Nanyang, such as Siamese rice? "
Gu Daeyong said with a smile, "Exactly, but it is not us who take the initiative to buy it. It is the merchant ships of other countries who take the initiative to ship it. They need our goods, so they ship the rice. Using barter for barter, it is enough for us to eat. Moreover, we have gold and silver in hand, we can buy it at any time when we need it. Which merchant has a grudge against gold and silver? There is no need to worry about this. "
Yang Ling nodded and said, "In addition, with the successful trials of Nanyang rice, sweet potatoes, potatoes, and corn introduced by our Ming Destiny, they can be planted on a large scale this year. They can also be used as a reserve for grain. In addition, many places in the country are still barren and have not been developed. Especially with the gradual pacification of the northwest and northeast, as well as the immigration of the prefectural officials, it will soon become a large granary. "
Yang Ling smiled slightly and said, "Your Majesty, Ming Destiny is the one and only Ming Destiny in the world. Each place should develop its own strengths. If Jiangnan can make a lot of money, then let it make it and develop industry. If the interior is suitable for farming, then specially develop domestic farming and exchange what they need.
Chickens and dogs can only hear each other, but do not interact with each other. Food, clothing, and expenses have to be self-sufficient in each place, it is really not enough. For example, the Suzhou weavers originally did the entire process from weaving to dyeing by themselves. Each household prepared their own tools. Not only did it cost more, the cost and efficiency was many times worse than the current division of labor.
Moreover, with such cooperation, the whole of Ming Destiny will be more dependent on each other, and it will be more conducive to local stability. No matter who wants to rely on the power of one place to fight against the world, to fight against Your Majesty, it will not be so easy. "
Zhengde clapped his hands and said, "Wonderful, our great country should have the atmosphere of a great country, how can it be so petty. Well said, well said, this is the truth."
He beamed at Gu Daeyong and said, "Great Yong has always been loyal and dedicated to me, I am very pleased. When you were in Datong, your temper was a bit violent, and you were too involved in capturing the Maitreya followers, causing you to make mistakes and be punished. After this setback, your temperament is very steady.
After coming to Jiangnan, I am very satisfied with what you have done, I am very happy. Great Yong, I bestow you with a serpent robe to show my appreciation. I am working hard to govern, Jiangnan is my pillar and backing, you must guard it well for me! "
Gu Daeyong was pleasantly surprised and hurriedly knelt on the ground, replying in a trembling voice, "Thank you, Your Majesty, Your Majesty's kindness is great, this Old Slave will spare no effort for Your Majesty, even if I have to sacrifice my life for Your Majesty!"
Serpent robe, thinking back to the time when the head of the Eight Tigers, Liu Jin, had the power to overturn the world, only then was he able to obtain a serpent robe. Up until now, only Yang Ling and Liu Jin had this special honor. Now he had also obtained a serpent robe, this honor was not only unique among the old companions of the Eight Tigers, it was enough to show off in the whole world.
Gu Daeyong was encouraged by this and stood up to continue his report. For example, Songjiang Cloth Hosiery Mill and Jiaxing Oil Mill joined hands to form a large factory, unified specifications, common pricing, and wholesale sales at home and abroad. For example, Jiangnan's handicraft industry needed to buy large amounts of coal from the Niutoushan Coal Mine in Hezhou in South Zhili, Baiyangkou Coal Mine in Changpingzhou in North Zhili, and Pingdingzhou in Taiyuan. This led to the development of the local mining industry. The affluence of Jiangnan promoted the flourishing of the literary style, which led to the vigorous development of paper mills, printing mills, and lettering mills, and so on. Listening to this, Emperor Zhengde was radiant with joy.
Yang Ling saw that Zhengde was happy to hear this and jokingly said, "Your Majesty, this is the benefit of lifting the ban on movement and mutual cooperation. We can promote each other and advance by leaps and bounds. This is completely different from those methods of confining the people to one place and sealing off the land. You see, Jiangnan's industrial development and transportation development, because of the need for large amounts of iron, has promoted the operation of Shanxi Yang City and Hebei Zunhua Official Camp Iron Smelting Mills. Every year, the production of iron can reach tens of millions of catties, and the imperial court's income is not small.
Then there is the Fujian Ordnance Bureau building a large number of warships and cannons. The people of Fujian Pucheng see that it is profitable, and there are also wealthy gentry mining and smelting iron. The quality of the iron they produce is even better than that of the Official Camp. It is called 'construction iron'. It is used to make Frang Machine Cannons, General Cannons, and forged gun barrels. When it is fired, it will not explode. In this way, the people become rich and the imperial court become strong.
If there are more of these kinds of things, Your Majesty's great ambition of establishing an unparalleled meritorious service, of establishing your prestige throughout the ages, why should you worry that it will not be realized? "
Emperor Zhengde propped himself up from the chair and took several steps forward. His face was flushed red, his expression was excited; obviously his heart was surging and he could not control himself. Clenching his fists and sticking out his chest, he stood upright and unafraid for a moment. Suddenly he turned around and said to Yang Ling, "My beloved minister! Zhen's world can have today, my beloved minister has worked hard and rendered great service. Zhen wants to reward you with something. As long as you can say it, Zhen will do it. Tell me, what do you want? "
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