Lin Yun smiled slightly, closed the book, and said, "I can understand some of the mathematics in these books. However, the content is rather simple."
If Your Majesty does not mind, I may try to compile some introductory books on arithmetic, physics, and chemistry, which may help promote Western learning.
A hint of surprise flashed in Yongzheng's eyes. He grasped her hand and said, "Yun'er has such talent? I was just worried about how to get my officials and students to accept Western learning. If we could have suitable introductory books, it would surely be twice as effective!"
Lin Yun nodded and said softly, "Although I am not an expert, I have read some basic science books. If this knowledge could be compiled into a book and presented in an easy-to-understand way, perhaps more people would be willing to learn it."
The light in Yongzheng's eyes shone even brighter, and he immediately said, "Good! Yun'er, just keep writing, and tell me if you need anything."
Lin Yun was moved by his support and began to discuss the matter in detail with him.
She suggested starting with the most basic mathematics and compiling a book called "Introduction to Mathematics," which covers addition, subtraction, multiplication, division, and basic geometry; then writing "An Introduction to Physics," which introduces basic knowledge of force, light, and heat; and finally "An Introduction to Chemistry," which explains the composition and changes of matter.
Emperor Yongzheng nodded repeatedly and praised, "Yun'er's idea is excellent! If these books can be promoted, they will surely enlighten the people."
Lin Yun added, "The book can include some real-life examples, such as using addition and subtraction to describe buying and selling goods, or using steam from boiling water to explain the transfer of heat. This would make it easier for people to accept."
Emperor Yongzheng laughed and said, "Excellent! In this way, not only can students learn, but the common people can also benefit from it."
The two talked more and more congenially, and before they knew it, it was late at night. So much so that even when Yongzheng was holding Lin Yun to sleep, he was still thinking about compiling the book.
The next morning, Lin Yun began her writing work.
She hunched over her desk, writing furiously, transforming the knowledge in her mind into words.
Daiyu entered carrying a cup of hot tea and said softly, "Your Highness, please rest for a while and don't tire yourself out."
Lin Yun looked up and saw that it was Daiyu. She smiled and took the teacup: "Yu'er, you've come at the right time. What do you think of these contents?"
Daiyu leaned closer and saw that the paper was covered with calculations and explanations. Her eyes widened in surprise: "Your Highness actually knows such profound knowledge?"
Lin Yun smiled and said, "These are just the basics. If Yu'er is interested, she can learn them too."
Daiyu's eyes shone with admiration as she nodded repeatedly, "Yu'er is willing to learn! Your Highness is truly amazing; you even understand Western knowledge!"
Lin Yun patted her head and said softly, "Then I'll teach you from now on, okay?"
Daiyu happily agreed and sat down to watch Lin Yun write attentively.
Daiyu had some mathematical knowledge and was also very intelligent, so she was quickly attracted by the contents of the book and would ask questions from time to time.
Lin Yun patiently answered her questions, and the two engaged in a warm and harmonious exchange.
---
Half a month later, Lin Yun presented the first draft of "Introduction to Mathematics" to Emperor Yongzheng.
After reading it, Emperor Yongzheng praised it highly: "Yun'er's writing is concise and clear, and her examples are vivid and interesting. Even I find it easy to understand!"
Lin Yun humbly replied, "Your Majesty flatters me. This is only a first draft and still needs further refinement."
Yongzheng shook his head: "It's already very good. I plan to first set up a small school in the palace for the princes, princesses and other young ladies to study. If the results are significant, then we will extend it to the provinces."
Lin Yun nodded in agreement: "Taking it step by step is indeed more prudent."
Soon, the Western-style school in the palace quietly began classes.
Hongyao and Zhaohua, as the first batch of students, participated with great enthusiasm.
Lin Yun personally taught the class, starting with the simplest addition and subtraction, and the children listened with great interest.
Hongyao, in particular, was quick to learn and master multiplication and division. Lin Yun even created multiplication tables for them to memorize.
Emperor Yongzheng would occasionally come to listen in, and seeing how diligently the children studied, his admiration for Lin Yun deepened.
He exclaimed, "Yun'er is not only a virtuous wife, but also my good teacher and friend."
---
As time went on, the influence of the Western-style schools gradually expanded.
Upon hearing this, some enlightened ministers in the court requested that their sons and nephews be allowed to enroll in the school.
Seeing that the time was ripe, Emperor Yongzheng ordered that "Introduction to Mathematics" be printed and distributed to schools in various provinces, and ordered that outstanding students be selected from all regions to study in the capital.
Although conservatives still have reservations, they have to admit the practical value of Western learning in the face of facts.
Especially after the Ministry of Works improved the firearms manufacturing process according to the methods in the book, the attitude of the government and the public towards Western learning began to change.
One day, Emperor Yongzheng was taking a walk in the Imperial Garden with Lin Yun. The afterglow of the setting sun shone on the two of them, casting long shadows.
Emperor Yongzheng remarked with emotion, "Yun'er, without your help, the promotion of Western learning would not have been so smooth."
Lin Yun shook her head and chuckled, "Your Majesty is too kind. I have only done my humble best. The real credit belongs to Your Majesty for your foresight and courage."
Emperor Yongzheng held her hand tightly, his gaze firm: "With Yun'er by my side, I believe the future of the Qing Dynasty will be even better."
Lin Yun leaned on his shoulder and said softly, "I believe it too."
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