The censor immediately stepped forward: "Grand Tutor is truly a role model in the court; such righteousness is truly admirable!"
Emperor Chongde stared intently at Grand Tutor Xie, surprised that the other party had taken the initiative to step forward.
In fact, even if Grand Tutor Xie hadn't asked for it, he had planned to force the court officials to do their part. After all, the national treasury was really tight, and who knew how much money would be spent on this flood relief? Someone had to share the burden.
However, the nature of Xie Taishi's initiative to donate money is different. If this gets out, it will undoubtedly add to his good reputation and win the gratitude and praise of the people. But this is not what the emperor wants to see.
However, given the current situation, he naturally had no reason to refuse.
"Has Grand Tutor Xie made up his mind?"
Grand Tutor Xie relaxed his brow slightly and said earnestly, "It is my duty to share Your Majesty's burdens and seek the well-being of the people."
Emperor Chongde twitched his lips and said with emotion, "Grand Tutor, you truly deserve to be called a pillar of the nation. I am truly convinced of your worth."
Even though he had clearly gotten the better deal, he was extremely unhappy.
Grand Tutor Xie lowered his eyes respectfully, displaying an air of harmony between ruler and subject.
Many officials harbored resentment, wondering why Grand Tutor Xie had to play the good guy. He had already given money, so how could they stand idly by?
Moreover, given that Grand Tutor Xie is so generous, wouldn't it be criticized if they contributed less money?
*
Shen Tangning glanced at the ten chests neatly stacked in the room and asked hesitantly, "Mother, isn't this too many?"
She was simply suggesting that, given the severity of the disaster, their own family should also do their part, as a token of their goodwill.
Who knew my mother-in-law would give so much? She was truly generous.
While counting, Chi's mother turned around and said, "Not much, not much! After something like this happened, we should do our part. Besides, Ayan is now in office in the court, so we must not give anyone cause for criticism. Consider this a blessing for you."
For her, money can be earned back; it's not a difficult thing.
Seeing her mother-in-law's magnanimity, Shen Tangning said nothing more. After the inventory was completed, she had it carried to the Ministry of Revenue, and she and her mother-in-law went along as well.
The rain has subsided considerably, making travel relatively easier.
Shen Tangning lifted the carriage curtain and looked out. She saw people coming and going on the street, and the people had worried expressions on their faces, but the atmosphere was not too gloomy.
Some people are repairing houses damaged by the rainstorm, others are clearing the water in front of their doors, and neighbors are lending a hand to each other when they encounter trouble.
This situation is much better than the previous one.
"Yanjing is not bad at all. If it were a poor place, I don't know how miserable it would be!" Mother Chi sighed, her eyes unconsciously revealing pity.
Natural disasters are more ruthless than man-made disasters; they strike without warning, leaving no room for anything.
"I heard that Grand Tutor Xie took the lead in donating money to us. The Grand Tutor is indeed benevolent!"
"Isn't that right? When I get back, I'll go to the temple and light an everlasting lamp for him, to bless him with good health and longevity!"
Hearing this, Chi's mother nodded in agreement: "Your maternal grandfather is indeed a man of noble character. It is His Majesty's blessing and the blessing of all people to have such a loyal minister."
Shen Tangning smiled slightly, lowered her eyelashes and listened quietly, but in her heart she thought that His Majesty must be unhappy at this moment.
Logically speaking, since the Xie family had already aroused the Emperor's suspicion, they should have kept a low profile. However, she did the opposite, which had its own purpose.
The higher her maternal grandfather's reputation among the people, the less likely His Majesty would dare to act rashly. Of course, the Xie family had to retreat, but she wanted to obtain a get-out-of-jail-free card before that.
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