In all regions of the Qing Dynasty, the residences of the officials stationed in the Eight Banners were located in the inner city. In Guangzhou, the range of residence of the banner people ranged from the West City Gate to the Four Pavilions in the west, from Dade Street to the Guitian Gate City Wall in the north and south. It extends north to the center of Guangzhou's vast embankment street. The area was surrounded by city walls, hence the name "Banner City". Officials and soldiers of the Eight Banners were not allowed to venture beyond ten miles (about five kilometers) outside the Banner City.

The Manchu Metropolitan Office is located in the Great World Street Flag City. There are a total of five courtyards and dozens of houses with green tiles and green wood. The majestic exterior blends harmoniously with the greenery, creating a solemn and serene atmosphere. The front courtyard is the main hall, the supporting offices and the various rooms, and the last two courtyards are the residences of the deputy capital.

After the adjutant of the metropolitan command took office, officials at all levels came to pay their respects. In the hall of the Metropolitan Mansion, Gu Yongyuan, who was dressed in military uniform, sat on a high platform. Below him stood a number of well-armed officers, lieutenants, lieutenants, defense officers, and cavalry officers, all dressed in armor. Although some of the officers looked smoky on their faces, they still exuded a powerful momentum when they stood together.

There are also three or four civilian officials, including civil officials of the executive office, directors of the left and right offices, etc.

The Executive Office is in charge of the official seal of the Deputy Metropolitan Government. When the left and right governments submit or receive official documents in the name of the deputy capital, the civil officials shall submit them to the deputy capital for approval. Then, the scribe takes the key, opens the seal box, and seals it. This process was carried out in front of the vice-president.

The civil officer of the Administration Department is essentially Gu Yongyuan's secretary. Gu Yongyuan couldn't help but look at him a few more times. The clerk was in his forties, with a triangular beard and a sharp and cunning gaze.

In addition to this, the left and right governments are responsible for handling the day-to-day affairs of the flag bearers. The Zuofu managed the finances, education, population, and income of the Qiren School. The right office is responsible for water and land resources, litigation, the appointment and dismissal of officials of the Eight Banners under the jurisdiction of the deputy capital, conscription, military quartermasters, and other affairs.

The entire city of Qi has its own set of rules and is not subject to the jurisdiction of local officials in Guangzhou. Even if the flag bearer commits a crime, the case must be referred to the General Administration or the Metropolitan Administration.

The night before, after Gu Yongyuan arrived in Guangzhou, he met with his immediate boss, the Guangzhou general Chen Hanren. Chen Hanren is related to the prince and his cousin, so naturally he will not put on an official show. The two exchanged pleasantries, and Chen Hanren expressed concern about Gu Yongyuan's fatigue during the journey. He looks more like a loving elder, polite and warm.

And now, Gu Yongyuan sat in the main hall of the Metropolitan Mansion, looking at the officials standing on both sides. Watching them bow their heads respectfully under his gaze, he had a feeling of being an official for the first time. When he went on a business trip to Shanghai, he had very few people under him. But now, he's really in power. He had become one of the most influential figures in Guangzhou, wielding military authority.

"You can go about everything as usual." Gu Yongyuan said, turning his gaze to Ga Yu's face and adding, "Mr. Ga Yu, you are an erudite scholar, and I appreciate your efforts. ”

"Oops, I don't dare, I don't dare!" Ga was startled and quickly withdrew from the group. He looked a little apprehensive, but he didn't expect this prince to have any prestige. But the more peaceful that yellow belt seemed, the more deeply his strategy was hidden. It's hard to deal with.

Gu Yongyuan smiled slightly and continued: "To be honest, I'm a lazy person, and I will avoid everything I can. In the future, whether it's a small matter or a big thing, if any of you can handle it, don't bother me. ”

When the officials heard this, they couldn't help but smile bitterly. They believe that there is indeed a second-generation aristocrat here. Naturally, everything will be smooth and stable as before, focus on making money and enjoy your vices.

Who knew that Gu Yongyuan's next words made their smiles freeze in place. "I'll admit everything about you, but if anyone messes up, don't blame me for being vexatious! According to the habits of the Qing Dynasty and the habits of the banner people, I will not have any favoritism! ”

"Got it!" All the officials responded in unison, maintaining a disciplined demeanor.

...

In the yamen of the governor of Liangguang, the Western consuls waited all year round to meet the governor. Now, Gu Yongyuan has the opportunity to observe this historical figure who has had a significant impact on modern history up close.

In the elegant flower hall, several pots of elegant orchids are placed on the sandalwood flower stand, reflecting the elegant taste of the owner.

Gu Yongyuan didn't expect Gu Xingqing to be so talkative. He discussed a wide range of topics, demonstrating his extensive knowledge of a variety of issues around the world. This proves that his silence in front of foreigners was a deliberate choice. Of course, this is understandable. To achieve such outstanding achievements, one must possess a wealth of knowledge and experience.

The ancient governor was dignified and dignified, making it hard to believe that he was the most incompetent diplomat in recent history.

Gu Yongyuan sighed softly in his heart. Was his experience a historical tragedy or a personal tragedy?

"Your Excellency, what do you think of the intention of Western countries to renegotiate the treaty?" Since one of them is the Minister of Commerce of the Five Ports and the other is an assistant minister, the topic naturally turned to diplomacy.

Gu Zhixin took a sip of tea delicately and said calmly: "If you want to defeat the country, you must first defeat the courtesy." Westerners do not respect the customs and etiquette of our Qing Dynasty, and their purpose is to harm us. If we allow it, if our officials interact freely with them, it will damage the very foundations of our country. Therefore, we must limit their activities. ”

Gu Yongyuan smiled bitterly in his heart. If you don't interact with them, they will bring their army to force you to fight them. As for destroying the foundation of the Qing Dynasty, it is actually very accurate.

However, Gu Yongyuan does not express such emotions. He replied with a smile: "Your Excellency the Governor is telling the truth, but I have observed that there is a misunderstanding on both sides, and if we can take advantage of this situation and open up the market a little, we may be able to ease the resentment of the Westerners." ” …… Why push them to the north and disturb the capital without need? ”

Gu Zhixin does not fully agree with this point of view. He glanced at Gu Yongyuan and said, "It's hard to move an inch, and the greed of Westerners is famous. ”

Gu Yongyuan nodded slightly and said, "Your Excellency Governor's understanding of foreign affairs far exceeds that of his subordinates. ”

He knew that there seemed to be little point in discussing this matter with Gu Xingqing. If he wanted to take advantage of Guangzhou's geographical and commercial advantages, open up a source of understanding about the world, and promote the rapid development of industry and commerce, he had to adopt a more subtle way.

...

The second courtyard behind the Totong Mansion was for servants, guards and their families. The second courtyard is where the governor and his wife live, as well as Gu Yongyuan's four maidservants.

When night falls, the courtyard is filled with red lanterns. The bamboo is fresh, and the air is filled with the scent of flowers. Although it is not as magnificent as the Chufeng Tower of Yongwangfu, it also has its charm and tranquility.

In the hall, a round table sits several Cantonese dishes. However, Gu Yongyuan personally cooked two grilled pork chops with a golden aroma. One of them was placed on a plate in front of Miaoqing.

Four maids were serving food and drinks for their master and wife. They were amazed at the scene because they had never seen men cook before, especially for someone as honorable as their master.

"Don't worry, it's not too greasy." Gu Yongyuan comforted Miao Qing, who was hesitant. He couldn't help but smile and said, "If you think it's delicious, I'll make it for you when I have time." ”

Miaoqing said in a childish tone: "If my husband likes it, I can teach Miaoqing, and Miaoqing will do it for my husband." Her voice sounded innocent and sweet.

Gu Yongyuan chuckled, "No need, no need, you can't understand the joy behind this." Hurry up and eat it, it's different when it's cold! Then he pulled Miao Qing's plate closer and began to cut the pork chops into small pieces for her to eat.

Miaoqing looked helplessly at her husband's impulsive actions, and secretly felt gratifying. However, she also feels discouraged when she realizes that her husband's current "favor" may be to treat herself as a sister or even a daughter, rather than as a wife.

Gu Yongyuan leisurely enjoyed the table wine. After eating, he found that Miao Qing had stopped for a while. He clapped his hands and motioned for the maids to clean up the table and help Miaoqing wash.

Zhao Cai entered the room and greeted respectfully: "Husband, Ga Yu has been waiting outside for half an hour." ”

Gu Yongyuan nodded slightly, took a white towel from the hand of the maid named "Grace", and began to wipe his face. He thought about it and realized that this seventh-level clerk didn't think of him as an ignorant nobleman. Otherwise, he wouldn't have come so late to discuss business. He asked Ga Yu to sort out various banner-related documents for him to review, and his efficiency was still commendable. He may have been busy with the tasks assigned to him since the dissolution of the court in the morning.

"Invite him to the side hall to consult." Gu Yongyuan rewarded him with a privilege. Holding a meeting in a private lobby shows trust.

After washing his face and rinsing his mouth, Gu Yongyuan got up and walked leisurely towards the flower hall of the West Courtyard. Ga Slip stood there with his hands at his side. Seeing Gu Yongyuan coming in, he hurriedly took a few steps forward and said, "Ga Yu to meet the little prince!" ”

Gu Yongyuan was stunned for a moment. This gaga is not called him habitually. He is not a left-behind scholar from the local government; He is an academic. Even if you want to make a sycophant, you shouldn't come this far.

Ga Yu said respectfully: "The slave is a blue-inlaid flag person, and it is a great blessing to be able to serve the little prince." ”

Gu Yongyuan suddenly understood. It turned out that he was a blue-inlaid flag man, and serving Gu Yongyuan was also a privilege. He found that although it was only a nominal title, the title of Little Lord was real.

After the two of them sat down, Gu Yongyuan smiled and said, "Please get up, you have been waiting for a while, hard work." Since you call yourself a servant, then I will not call you "sir." Being too formal can create unnecessary distance.

Ga Yu stood up and handed over a thick stack of papers with both hands. He replied, "This is the document that the little prince instructed me to put together, please take a look at it." ”

Gu Yongyuan nodded slightly, took the document and flipped it up. The first section detailed troops: 100 charges, 130 pioneers, 710 vanguard cavalry, 8 craftsmen (1 per banner), 1 coppersmith, 4 blacksmiths, 180 auxiliary troops, 100 miscellaneous soldiers, 380 support troops, and 20 reserve troops. The total number of Manchu Eight Banner soldiers was 1633 people.

The military equipment includes 401 horses, 5,102 arrows, 2,211 knives, 145 rattan shields, 354 bird guns, falcon guns, Weiyuan guns, iron roar guns, mountain guns, carrying guns, and 43 mobile battalion guns.

Gu Yongyuan felt that although these shotguns and cannons were a little scary, they were actually not as powerful as the pistols that came later, and they were two or three hundred years behind Western technology. Primitive artillery may be useful against rebels, but they may be insignificant in the face of Western powers.

The document also mentions the naval flag, which consists of 592 members, including 2 stern, 4 oarrow and 7 small boats, among others.

Gu Yongyuan shook his head inwardly. And this is also considered a navy? It looks more like a fantasy. The largest boat is the stern boat, which can only accommodate about 40 to 50 people. Tie some muskets and primitive cannons to it, and it becomes a navy? I'm afraid that even the merchant ships patrolling the Pearl River will not be able to cope with it.

Then he reviewed the salary component. The annual salary of a regular pioneer soldier was forty-three taels and five cents. They were also given twenty-two stones, five buckets, nine liters, and six hews of rice, and a large bag of salt. There are additional perks for various expenses. According to the current prices in Guangzhou, it is enough to feed a large and small family.

Later accounts of the document provide detailed information on the Manchu population in Qicheng. Including the officers and soldiers of the Eight Banners, their accompanying families, and generations of residents, the number exceeded 10,000.

There are official schools, private schools, academies, granaries, vaults, arsenals, gunpowder bureaus, prisons, etc. Other facilities such as residences, taverns, and markets for public use are also plentiful. This actually forms a micro-society within the city.

"You can go, I said before, I enjoy my leisure, you can handle the affairs in the yamen by yourself, I don't want to spend my days dealing with trivial matters in the yamen." Gu Yongyuan put down the document and said to Ga Yu with a smile.

Ga Yu hurriedly responded: "Yes, I understand, I am willing to share the burden for Master." ”

"Very well, you can go." Watching Ga Yo leave with his head down, Gu Yongyuan picked up the document and browsed it for a while. He couldn't help but feel tired, thinking that he was getting lazier day by day.

...

After taking a shower and yawning, Gu Yongyuan entered the bedroom. Who knows, under the light of the red candle, Miaoqing is playing with the kaleidoscope. Perhaps she didn't expect him to come back so early, she exclaimed and dropped the kaleidoscope to the ground.

Under the influence of Gu Yongyuan, both of them wore pajamas. These are all according to Gu Yongyuan's design, by the Beijing master tailor embroidery pavilion, carefully made of fine silk. These pajamas are very comfortable, and Miaoqing likes them after wearing them once. She believes that it is indeed more comfortable to sleep in her pajamas.

Now, she wears a cute little pale green silk pajamas. She squatted on the chair, resting her little feet on the chair, and raised it playfully, her face was like a jade carving, which was carefully carved by the master. She was as cute as she could be.

Gu Yongyuan was stunned for a moment. Although he treated Miao Qing as a child, he had never seen her behave so childishly. Usually, she is calm and calm, and her words and deeds are well thought out. He had never seen her wagging her feet playfully and carefree like a child.

Seeing Miaoqing's flustered appearance, Gu Yongyuan felt very funny. But he knows that the little guy values his self-esteem very much, and the last thing she wants is for her "husband" to treat her as a child.

He knew better that without his "gentle guidance", Miaoqing would not have become so playful.

Gu Yongyuan is worried that after exposing his playful side today, Miaoqing may regret it and "change her ways". So, as if he had just woken up, he rubbed his eyes and muttered, "What kind of weather is this?" Suddenly windy? I don't quite adapt to this climate in the Nanban territory! ”

Out of the corner of his eye, he saw that Miao Qing patted his chest, as if relieved. Then, gracefully, she jumped down from her chair, put embroidered slippers on her snow-white feet, and walked over with skillful lotus steps. Her voice was full of worry, "Husband, I'll blow you air." Her concerns were sincere.

Gu Yongyuan found such a situation very pleasant. For a moment, he wanted to pick her up and take a few bites. Before he knew it, he had come to regard her as family.