"Qian Wensheng, a clerk from Shanxi, has filed a complaint before the Emperor accusing the local county magistrate of concealing the extent of the disaster, exploiting the people, and showing no compassion for the villagers!"
The late emperor's cool voice came from above: "Bring it here."
After reading the memorial, the late emperor was furious.
He immediately ordered the Ministry of Personnel and the Ministry of Revenue to send two officials to Shanxi incognito for a private visit.
Old Qian spent more than half a month in prison before finally receiving the investigation results.
The memorial was found to be true, and the local prefect, magistrate, and other officials were dismissed and investigated.
The late emperor ordered the Ministry of Revenue to ascertain the number of people affected by the disaster, to inventory the list of those subject to taxation and corvée labor, and to issue an edict to reduce or exempt local taxes.
They opened granaries to distribute grain and provide relief to the disaster victims.
However, the officials in the Ministry of Justice were troubled by Lao Qian's case.
Despite being a lowly clerk, Lao Qian had the people at heart and a strong sense of righteousness.
To save countless people with one's own strength is an immense achievement.
According to the law, regardless of the reason, they should be exiled to the army.
The Ministry of Justice was hesitant to take action.
However, to absolve him of his crimes, the emperor must issue a decree.
So, how should Lao Qian be convicted? This difficult question was once again presented to the late emperor.
The late emperor locked himself in his study for a day and a night, not allowing anyone to disturb him.
During this period, they did not even eat imperial food.
The next day, the late emperor summoned the fourth prince.
The fourth prince, Zhao Changqing, stared blankly at his father's face, which seemed to have aged considerably overnight.
"Qing'er, do you know your mistake?"
Zhao Changqing pouted and whispered, "Is Father still blaming me for playing the drum?"
"...Anyone who beats the drum to appeal will be exiled to the army, do you know that?"
Zhao Changqing asked blankly, "Father, are you talking about Qian Wensheng?"
The late emperor turned his back and, after a long while, said with his hands behind his back, "Qing'er, go to Jizhou."
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