Chapter 6 Chapter Seven
political affairs hall.
There was a certain monk who violated the ban before, and Su Song perverted the law for personal gain because of Jiang An's request. Even if he didn't ask about this matter, Su Song could not escape the crime!The case of Chen Shiru's Renlun rebellion is very clear, and Su Song deliberately procrastinated and did not convict him for a long time. Several manuscripts of letters to Su Song were written by Chen Shiru, and their words were even written by Lu Gong. This also proves that there were previous Taiwanese admonitions to impeach Lu Gong for interfering in Chen Shiru's case, all of which are facts!Here is the copy of the letter, if you don’t believe me, you can read these letters yourself
Shu Yu looked proudly at the several prime ministers in front of him, Lu Huiqing and Wang Gui took pleasure in their misfortune, Feng Jing and Wang Anli were noncommittal, Fan Chunren and Sun Gu looked at the copies of the draft letters with ashen faces.He couldn't help feeling a burst of elation in his heart, but it's a pity that Sima Guang wasn't here Shu Yu thought regretfully in his heart.In principle, although the Zhengshitang will not participate in the trial of the case, it has the right to intervene in all major cases, but Sima Guang has to avoid it because his son is also involved in the case.However, it doesn't matter whether you evade or not, just as it doesn't matter whether Zhengshitang intervenes or not.Yushitai is an institution that can compete with the two governments. In this case, Shu Yu had already reported to the emperor. It was the emperor who was furious and ordered poor treatment, so he dared to arrest people boldly.He didn't care much about Zhengshitang's thoughts at first, and now he is even more confident.Thinking of this, he couldn't help but glanced at Shi Deyi on the right. This eunuch temple, he thought contemptuously, the emperor appointed this powerful Shi Deyi to try the case with him, but he didn't know whether the eunuch temple was eunuch temple. When he entered the political affairs hall, his speech was not bad, but after Fan Chunren called out "Nurgan", he was almost trembling with fright, and he didn't even dare to speak loudly.Of course Shu Yu understood the reason for this. The state system, the two governments hold the power to promote and punish eunuchs.The promotion of all eunuchs must be approved by the two governments; and in extreme cases, the princes of the two governments can even directly exile the eunuch without the emperor's consent. This is almost a fatal punishment, because according to the law of the ancestors, the eunuch After a mistake is punished, it can no longer be reused.Therefore, if Fan Chunren was caught, no matter how powerful Shi De was, he might not be able to stand up to an order from the Zhengshitang.It is not surprising that people like Fan Chunren and Sun Gu do anything.
However, there was nothing they could do about Shu Yu.The duty of the censor is to correct the ropes of the officials and check and balance the two governments.
Fan Chunren gently put the copies of the letters on the case, raised his eyes to look at Shu Quan, and said slowly: The words in these manuscripts are ambiguous.After lightly commenting, he asked again: Why did Sima Kang offend him?
Shu Yu raised his head to meet Fan Chunren, saw his dark pupils shining with unfathomable light, for some reason, his heart trembled, he quickly lowered his head to avoid his gaze, and said: "It was Chen Shiru's friend Yan Jing who confessed personally, He used to be friends with Sima Kang, and once told Sima Kangguan about the case.
Well?Fan Chunren raised his voice suddenly, looked at Shu Quan as if surprised, and asked: That's all?
Whether Sima Kang promised Yan Jingguan to talk about the Chen Shiru case, although Yan Jing did not confess, Sima Kang is also suspected!Shu Yu heard the trap in Fan Chunren's words, and immediately replied: If he is innocent, after Yan Jingguan said it, he should report the matter to the court.However, for several months, he has kept a secret, how can it not be suspicious?Whether Sima Kang is involved in this case, and whether there are dignitaries involved behind the case, Yu Shitai should investigate to the end and find out the truth.
As soon as he finished speaking, before Fan Chunren could speak, Lu Huiqing took over the words and said: "The establishment of the constitutional platform is just for the pickets."If any official breaks the law, from the prime minister to the Qingyi, the censor can be impeached and prosecuted according to the law. This is the good law of the ancestors.But regarding Sima Kang's matter, according to Mr. Shu's words, it is only one-sided remarks, and it is hard to guarantee that no one will complain about it.
Don't worry, Mr. Xiang, the next official should find out the truth.Shu Yu bowed to Lu Huiqing, but glanced at Fan Chunren out of the corner of his eye, and said word by word: But before the truth comes out, not only Sima Kang's suspicion cannot be cleared, but the officials have also issued a letter to impeach Sima Guang, and they want him to be impeached. Avoid the crime!
That's a matter of stepping.With a cold face, Sun Gu said coldly: The emperor is the master of sages, so he will not be deceived by villains.Mr. Sun didn't hide it from Mr. Shu, just relying on the nonsense in these two letter drafts, he said that Mr. Lu was involved in the case, and Mr. Sun thought it was unconvincing!If someone wants to use this to build a big prison to seek favor and trust, the gentleman in the court is not dead yet, I'm afraid he won't be able to easily achieve his wish!
Participating in politics is very true, today's sages and ministers, if someone wants to deceive the superiors and conceal the truth, exercise power and cheat, the lower officials will think that it will be impossible to do so.Shu Yu pouted her mouth slightly, and sarcastically said: The next official prepares a position to admonish, even if you are a minister and a member of the prince's relatives, as long as he is suspected of a crime, you will definitely be impeached and prosecuted, and you will never allow yourself to be private.The gate of Shuangtai is opening for this generation!
After finishing speaking, he bowed to the ground to the crowd, and said proudly: "Today, I will take my leave as an official."If the ministers still have doubts about the case, they can write to Yushitai, and the next official should answer the explanation.Farewell!After finishing speaking, he bowed again and walked away.Shi De was stunned for a while, then hurriedly retreated and followed him.
The villain succeeds!Looking at Shu Yu's back, Sun Gu slapped his palm on the table angrily, shaking his beard and said: "Everyone, I want to ask to see the emperor immediately, who is willing to go with you?"
Sun Gong, please be safe and don't be impatient.When Wang Gui heard that Shu Quan wanted to impeach Sima Guang, he had always hated Sima Guang, so he couldn't help being very happy, but now he had to put on a gesture, pretend to persuade, grabbed Sun Gu's sleeve, and persuaded slowly: this matter need to think long term
Lu Huiqing also advised from the side, "Participating in politics is hasty. Although Shu Quan is trying to gain fame, he can't find out what he is doing now. The so-called Qing Dynasty is self-clearing, and Sima Jun is not really important."What's more, the emperor is going to rely heavily on him, how can he allow him to avoid the throne?Now that the emperor's holy body is against harmony, how can a minister just argue in front of the emperor because it is still a matter of speculation?In my opinion, I asked Shu Yu to investigate, and the one who cleared the matter would clear it up himself. Could it really make him wronged?After checking it out, Sima Jun can feel at ease in his heart
When he opened his mouth, he cleared himself, and if he closed his mouth, he cleared himself. Feng Jing and Wang Anli also nodded in agreement. Sun Gu turned to look at Fan Chunren, but even Fan Chunren remained silent.He was even more impatient, and said with a sneer: I have been taught.However, don't I know that those who clean up clean themselves?But I also know that in this world, there is still a prison for training!Since you don't want to go, I don't dare to force it!After all, he clasped his fists together and walked away.
Fan Chunren watched Sun Gu angrily leave Shangshu Province, because he was not on duty that day, he also stood up and left.He also had no intention of going to the Ministry of Punishment, so he went straight back to the mansion.
Fan Chunren knew Shu Quan quite well. During Xining's 17th year of Taiwan remonstrance, Shu Quan was the only person who had the status of provincial Yuan. Habits cannot be changed overnight, Jinshi and rank are still valued in people's minds,
Shu Yu was the first in the Ministry of Rites Examination, and his invisible sense of superiority also made him different from others. In Yushitai, he was also known for his daring to do things and not avoiding the powerful.Moreover, in addition to being bold and fearless, Shu Yu is very good at making accusations, torture and interrogation. All cases that have passed through him will be investigated to the end. No matter the severity of the case, no one will be let go. According to the views formed since Shi Qian, this is a bit similar to cruel officials.Therefore, Shu Yu has always been disliked by the old party literati, and Shu Yu also does not like the old party literati, but he is very close to Lu Huiqing, and is often regarded as close to Lu Huiqing.But from Fan Chunren's point of view, Shu Quan and Lu Huiqing did live in Taiwan to advise and the other in the government, exchanging voices and supporting each other, but Shu Quan may not be regarded as Lu Huiqing's henchman.
However, no matter what, since the Chen Shiru case fell into his hands, the consequences would be unimaginable.Although Chen Shiru and his wife have committed a heinous crime and death is not a pity, but he and his wife are both prime ministers. Most of the relatives and in-laws of Chen and Lu are court officials, and the Lu family is one of the rare famous families in the world. Shu Yu, who has something to do with the Lu family, encountered such a big case, and it was time to make a name for himself, so how could he easily stop?However, what worried Fan Chunren the most was that logically speaking, with the wisdom of the current emperor, how could such a major case that could shake the court and the public be casually sent to such a cruel official like Shu Quan?Even if Shu Quan and Lu Huiqing were in collusion, there was Lu Huiqing's manipulation behind this matter, but even though the emperor was seriously ill, Fan Chunren did not believe that Lu Huiqing could really manipulate the emperor.Whether it's Shu Yu or Lu Huiqing, it's nothing to worry about. Today's emperor is a master who can control his emotions and doesn't act according to his own likes and dislikes. Thrilling
He returned home full of worries, without changing his clothes, he locked himself in the study, and the family members of Fan's residence were used to it, and did not dare to disturb him.He could only study the files of Chen Shiru's case over and over again in his study, especially the Zhu Zhu behind those memorials.
The emperor's tone was one of undisguised anger.The intense and shocking words such as Beast Behavior, Responsibility, and Mingjiao Sinner can be seen everywhere.But Fan Chunren guessed repeatedly from these replies that most of the emperor's anger was aimed at Su Song.Perhaps, the emperor was indeed suspicious of Su Song's perverting the law for personal gain.In addition, the emperor's anger at Lu Gong's writings is also overflowing with vocabulary. Although even judging from the facts of the case mentioned by Shu Quan, the Lu family really made great efforts to plead for Chen Shiru and Li. So far, there is no evidence that Lu Gongzhu must have known about it.However, the Lu family has repeatedly been involved in scandals, which will undoubtedly make the emperor feel unhappy. Because of the crimes committed by his family members in Huguang, Mr. Lu has just been demoted to the Daming Mansion not long ago!
But that's all.The emperor didn't say a word about Sima Guang.He didn't even condemn Su Song and Lu Gong for forming a party for personal gain. What Fan Chunren was most afraid of was that the emperor would think of forming a party.The old party and the old party, although the government and the public are accustomed to calling it the old party, the new party, or even the stone party, neither the new party nor the old party, or the so-called stone party, are willing to recognize it.Although the emperor knew these names, he only regarded them as a division of political opinions. If he really thought that the emperor could recognize the existence of cliques openly above the court, it would be too naive.
The emperor is too lazy to distinguish between a party of gentlemen and a party of villains!
Shi Yue is so cautious and has made great contributions to the country. This is recognized by everyone in the government and the public, but a stone party that is catching wind and shadow has made him idle for many years.Su Zhe was also driven out of Bianjing by the emperor because he was a legendary stone party.
The old party has always regarded itself as a gentleman.
A gentleman has no party.
If gentlemen are recognized by the emperor as forming a party, then the gentleman will become a hypocrite, and the consequences will be unimaginable.
Fortunately, it is not clear that the emperor has such an idea for the time being.
But he didn't dare to be happy, who would have expected that Lu Huiqing and Shu Yu would not go in this direction to settle the case?
However
Sitting in the study, Fan Chunren became more and more disturbed as he thought about it, as if he saw countless clues that he could grasp with his hand, but he couldn't find a really reliable way to solve this problem.He casually grabbed a brush, dipped it in ink, and wrote a dozen words on a piece of white paper. Fan Chunren suddenly stopped writing, staring blankly at the words on the white paper. What I wrote casually was actually the word Yizhou!
Yizhou?Fan Chunren muttered, stood up involuntarily, but accidentally dropped a newspaper to the ground.He was about to lean over to pick it up, but he saw that "Bianjing News" was imprinted: Yesterday Sang Chongguojian resigned from the head of Baishuitan College and the president of "Bianjing News"
Fan Chunren carefully picked up the newspaper, lightly brushed off the dust on it, and said to himself: Sang Chongguo then heard the sound of footsteps outside the study, and after a while, he heard a family member report outside the door. : To participate in politics, Shi Ziming, the steward of Shi Ziming's scholar's residence, sent an invitation card.
Well?Fan Chunren walked quickly to the door, only to see the family member bent over, handing over an invitation card with both hands.When he picked it up and looked at it, he saw it read:
I want to have a family meal at noon on September 2, and I have a lot of money, but fortunately, he will meet him later.You are sincerely present.A certain day in August.A scholar of Guanwendian, and a son of Shiyue Zha, who promoted and edited the Imperial Order.
What about Shi Jian?Fan Chunren asked while putting away the invitation.
Did not dare to let him in without permission, let him wait outside.
Worth mentioning.Fan Chunren put the invitation card in his sleeve, half of the worry on his face had dissipated, and he said with a smile: "Then I won't see him either, you go and tell him, I will definitely attend the appointment then."
yes.
After a few hours.
Yushitai.
Did the escort mean that Shi Yue sent an invitation to Fan Chunren?Shu Yu looked at Shi Deyi with a sullen face, and gritted his teeth lightly, do you know when Shi Yue will hold a banquet?
This is not found.Shi Deyi shook his head and said: Shi Yue seems to have only invited Fan Chunren this time.
Fan Chunren didn't go to see Sima Guang after returning home?
At Sima's mansion, the door was always closed to thank the guests, and several guests who came to the door were all driven back.Shi Deyi said while spitting: this Sima Guang is so ignorant of human feelings.
But the shift was wrong.Shu Yu chuckled and said: He doesn't know human relationships, but he has insight into human relationships.
Shi De glanced at Shu Quan sideways, and said in a sharp voice: Lord Shu, whether Sima Guang knows people or not now, the case in his family's yamen is not settled, but in the future it will be unclear.Shi Yue is not easy to mess with, don't think he is not a chancellor, just say a word in front of the officials, and Wang Zhengzhong will marry him.The official is sick, and he has to see him several times a month.Now for some reason, this Bodhisattva has also been attracted
Both the escort and the lower officials handle the case according to the order, which Bodhisattva is he who can control him?Shu Yu said disapprovingly.
But Shi Deyi had a ghost in his heart. Lu Huiqing wanted to use this case to punish dissidents, and Shu Yu wanted to use this case to make a name for himself, and by the way to curry favor with Lu Huiqing. It's not that Qin is a life-and-death friend, so why should he offend Sima Guang because of this case?But he got a hint from King Yong, asking him to turn a blind eye to Shu Yu, borrow a knife to kill people, and drive Sima Guang and other important officials out of the court.He naturally didn't know that Zhao Hao's wishful thinking would push the struggle between the court and the middle party to a fever pitch before the emperor's death. What's more, Lu Huiqing offended the scholars and officials of the world so much. After the emperor died, if he didn't embrace a new king and try to make achievements, he was afraid that he would die without a burial place. At that time, it would be easy for him to bribe Lu Huiqing.After ascension to the throne, demote Lu Huiqing and Shu Yu, punish Shi Deyi, and recall Sima Guang and others, then the world will return naturally, and his throne will be easily consolidated.However, at this time, Shi Deyi is still dreaming of the dream of becoming a military envoy after Zhao Hao ascended the throne.
With such a big matter in his mind that his family would be ransacked and his family wiped out if he was exposed, he was inevitably not so confident.Although he was indeed just turning a blind eye, at most he was only misleading Shu Yu, making him guess less accurately about the emperor's intentions, but it was still very unreliable.He was a eunuch who had served the emperor day and night, and he knew the emperor better than ordinary foreign officials. He knew more about Shi Yue's weight in the emperor's heart than anyone else.And his words made the emperor demote to Wang Zhengzhong, and all the eunuchs looked sideways at him.What's more, although there is no way to get hold of it, every servant in the palace knows that Shi Yue is different from ordinary ministers. He is also powerful in the palace. Li Xiang'an and Wang Xianfei are the closest people to the emperor. He was the closest person to the Empress Dowager again.
Therefore, for Shi Yue, Shi Deyi really has a sense of fear from the bottom of his heart.In the past, his backer was the emperor, so naturally he was not afraid of anyone, just like Shu Yu this time, he also thought that his biggest backer was the emperor, but Shi Deyi knew very well that his backer this time was not Xi Emperor Ning Zhao Xu!
He also didn't believe that Shi Yue invited Fan Chunren to dinner at this time, just chatting about family matters.He must be minding his own business
Shi Yue must not be caught.Shi Deyi was thinking in his heart, but a smile appeared on his face, he moved his body towards Shu Yu, lowered his voice, and said: Mr. Shu, you and I are now grasshoppers on a rope, and I am also a grasshopper on a rope. Let's not make those empty words, let's open the skylight and speak the truth. Although we all handle cases according to the order and are impartial, since ancient times, if you want justice, you will inevitably offend the powerful and powerful.Su Song, Lu Gongzhuo father and son, Sima Kang go to prison, you and I can't turn back.If this case cannot be settled, it will be impeccable. As a servant, I have nothing to cherish, but Master Shu's bright future may be ruined.My lord, don't underestimate Shi Ziming, tell me, is there any minister in this world that the official family has to see every month?The officials were reluctant to let him out of the capital even when they demoted him. Let me tell you, since the founding of the country, has any minister had such dignity?Speaking of this, he paused slightly, then clasped his fists and said sharply: If Mr. Shu can't get the evidence for Sima's participation in politics, I don't think it's better to just let him go.Otherwise, please forgive me, and our family has no choice but to report the truth to the emperor.
His words left him completely alone, and there was a hint of threat in his words, Shu Yu could hear it naturally.He didn't expect Shi De to be afraid of Shi Yue, like a mouse seeing a cat.I was contemptuous and angry at the same time, but I couldn't get angry.After all, Shi Deyi is also a Quan eunuch, and he was sent by the emperor. Moreover, Shu Yu knew in his heart that, just as Shi Deyi said, he really has no way of turning back.Needless to say, Su Song, no matter where the case goes this time, he will at least be kicked out of Bianjing; but the most important thing is to overthrow Sima Guang and Lu Gong. Also involved, that is the earth-shattering big case.
But to bring all the people involved in the case to justice one by one, and bring down all their backers, it would be unthinkable without this eunuch in front of him.Telling the truth in front of the emperor, isn't it all based on his mouth?
Don't worry.Shu Yu hurriedly comforted Shi Deyi, tapped the "Bianjing News" on the case with his fingers, and said with a smile: I have my own way.
Come on!
grown ups?A errand official rushed in to wait on him.
You go and put shackles on Mr. Su, Mr. Sima, the two Mr. Lu and other criminals, and change rooms.The shackles must be heavy, and the house must be small and dark. According to the rules, you can't treat them badly. A jailer is still arranged to serve food and daily life.Shu Yu ignored the stunned officials and Shi Deyi, and continued to order: From today onwards, all criminals involved in this case are not allowed to leave the cell, eat, drink and drink, and stay together in the same room.What should be eaten and what should be drunk is still delivered as usual, but it must be poured into a basin and stirred with a stick with soil.
this
The official in charge hesitated for a moment, Shu Quan's face sank, and he shouted sharply: Did you hear clearly?
yes.
Hurry up and do it!
yes.
Seeing that the official in charge went out almost tremblingly, Shi Deyi couldn't help asking in a low voice: Master Shu, these people are very important, and they must not be tortured.
Did I use punishment?Shu Yu sneered.
this
The guard can go to check the laws and regulations of Yushitai, but I always follow the rules.Shu Yu said with a chuckle, don't worry about being on duty, these people talk about their integrity and keep their integrity, Su Wu has been in a beard for more than ten years, and he can bear that kind of hardship.After suffering so much, they are ashamed to claim that they have been beaten into tricks?If it is spread out, they will only be unable to hold their heads up, and they will be ashamed of others.Besides, the emperor will not blame us for this. Could it be that this Yushitai is here for them to enjoy themselves?hey-hey!I would like to know how long this young man, Sima Kang, can last for a few days!
Shi Deyi was overwhelmed with admiration.But when he left Yushitai, for some reason, he was still uneasy. After riding the black mule, he finally called his confidants and ordered in a low voice: Send more people to keep an eye on Shifu.
But Shifu could no longer see anything abnormal.
For several days in a row, Shi Yue might not leave the house at all, and the guests he saw were nothing more than Zhang San Li Si, who were insignificant; or he took his family to visit temples and temples, which was very prosperous.Only on August 30th, Shi Yue was invited to the Gewu Academy of Baishuitan College, and together with Sang Chongguo, who had just resigned from Shanchang for a long time, presided over the graduation ceremony for the Gewu Academy students who graduated this year.In the afternoon, Shi and Sang watched a wonderful and intense polo match at Baishuitan. In this match, the Bingche Club, which had the most players in Bianjing in the past two years, lost miserably to the visiting Luoyang Yu Qingshe. , the very popular polo player Xue Qilang accidentally fell off his horse and suffered a comminuted fracture of his left leg. Since then, he withdrew from the polo match in Bianjing. matters of concern.
Even when Shi Yue invited Fan Chunren to a banquet on September 2, it was just a false alarm.This seems to be just an ordinary banquet. Among the officials and scholars in Bianjing, there are similar banquets almost every day. There are not many people invited by Shi Yue, and no one talks about the current situation during the banquet. The theme of the banquet is to recall the past. The experience of Shi Yue and Fan Chunren working together in Shaanxi.
Perhaps, Shi Yue just wanted to watch the fire from the other side.Although he was still suspicious, since Shi Yue didn't take any action, Shi Deyi gradually felt relieved, and things went much smoother than expected.
First, Sima Guang and Lu Xizhe apologized and resigned according to the usual practice, and waited behind closed doors.Although the emperor quickly rejected it, the emperor was already on the verge of riding a tiger.What Shu Yu provided to everyone every day was pig food. These people, even Su Song, were used to pampering them. How could they eat this?Su Song and Sima Kang were still resisting, but Lu Xiji and Lu Xichun couldn't stand it any longer. They thought it was not a serious crime, at most it was just demoting them. When Shu Quan asked them, they would answer whatever they wanted. I don't even look at it, so I draw a betting tool.Therefore, although Sima Kang gritted his teeth and pleaded not guilty, but with the confession of the Lu brothers, it was not so easy for him to leave Yushitai.
According to the confessions of the Lu brothers, a large number of officials involved with the old party have been imprisoned one after another, including Wu Anchi, the son of Wu Chong, the former military minister, and Cai Wei, the son of Cai Que, the former censor Zhongcheng.Of course, this is Xiang Zhuang's sword dance. The intention is that although Peigong Wu Chong is dead, Wu Chong has a son-in-law, Wen Jifu, the son of Wen Yanbo; and Cai Wei is the son-in-law of Feng Jing, the official secretary.This is a very neat two-pronged game. On the one hand, pre-emptive strikes, strangling the vital points of Wen Yanbo and Feng Jing, to prevent them from suddenly attacking; on the other hand, forcing Feng Jing to resign, so that Lu Huiqing can take power alone.
Yushitai suddenly became lively.
And the officials who are close to Lu Huiqing, the new party, and the speculative watchdog officials, seeing that the old party is almost wiped out, are really full of ambition, and bullets, letters, and flakes fly to Ruisi hall like a snowflake.Usually the old party always accuses whoever has low morals and who has bad character, but now, your old party officials, who bend the law for personal gain, actually want to protect something as inferior as Chen Shiru and his wife, this is called a hypocrite, and this is called retribution Woolen cloth.The crowd only cared about their generous speeches and beat the dog that fell into the water.
As for the old party officials, at this time, they either kept silent like cicadas, or they went to the Shangshu Province to meet Feng Jing and Sun Gu. Those who asked for leave asked for leave, those who asked for leave, those who asked for leave, and those who asked for foreigners. stay long.But Feng Jing and Sun Gu are also full of bitterness.Feng Jing himself has become a target. Although he wanted to retreat bravely, the emperor's illness has been repeated these days. Apart from Lu Huiqing, Han Zhongyan, and Li Qingchen, he, the minister of the official department, rarely sees him.Even if the memorials could be handed in, the memorials in the Hall of Ruisi were at least several feet high, and the emperor could only see three or four of them every day. How could he see him?It was only at this time that Feng Jing deeply regretted that he should have stood by and watched that day. Unexpectedly, within a few days, this situation has turned into this.But regret it at this time, but the opportunity has been lost, and it is too late to be restrained everywhere.
Sun Gu tried to go to see the emperor that day, but after he was blocked, he asked to see him for several days, but he couldn't see him. He usually served the eunuchs in the house, and he never pretended to be false. He offended many eunuchs. Are you willing to say something nice for him?After all, he didn't have Wen Yanbo's prestige, so he could only do nothing.
As for Fan Chunren, who was originally regarded as the new leader of the old party, since he met Shi Yue, and since the few innocuous memorials he submitted were muddled, he has not moved at all.The officials monitoring his relatives reported that Fan Chunren thanked the guests behind closed doors every day when he returned to the mansion, and even Sun Gu refused to come in;His attitude of being wise and protecting himself is already very obvious.
At this time, Shi Deyi became more courageous, urging Shu Yu every day to get Sima Kang's confession quickly; at the same time, he sent people to wait day and night for Lu Gong to escort him to Beijing.He quietly inquired about the emperor's condition, and it was known that it was extremely serious. To accomplish King Yong's major affairs, he had to close the case before the emperor died, and drive Sima Guang and others out of the capital.
But the strange thing is that after waiting and waiting, there is still no news about Lu Gong's work.
fan mansion.
Fan Chunren boarded the carriage, glanced coldly at the locksmith in front of the door, and snorted heavily. As early as a few years ago, Fan Chunren had submitted memorials several times to ask the emperor to abolish and restrict the imperial city department, but the results were all Do not report.At that time, the Imperial City Division was not as blatant and unscrupulous as it is now, and he already hated this institution, but now, the investigative officers of the Imperial City Division openly monitor the ministers!As long as he thought of this incident, he would grit his teeth. He repeatedly wanted to take the opportunity to kill several scouts from the Imperial City Division, but in the end he tried his best to hold back.A little intolerance can lead to chaos and big schemes. The Imperial City Secretary dared to act so boldly. After all, apart from bullying the emperor's serious illness, it was impossible to pay attention to such trivial matters, mainly relying on the support of Prime Minister Lu Huiqing behind him.The jackal is in power, An Wen the fox!
The coachman helped him put down the curtain. Hearing Fan Chunren's order, he yelled loudly. Surrounded by guards of honor, the coach of Shenzhi Zhengshi and Minister of Criminal Affairs went to Yujie.
In the car, Fan Chunren closed his eyes and remembered the banquet at Shifu eight days ago.On that day, just like now, there were relative officials of the Imperial City Division everywhere.
Fan Chunren still clearly remembered that before he went to Shifu, he already knew that Shi Yue would not leave any excuses for others. Back then when Shi Yue was in charge of fighting in Shaanxi and Xia, he and Chen Yuanfeng were in charge of military supplies transfer, and had too many dealings with Shi Yue.Sure enough, when he arrived at the Shifu, he found that besides him, nearly ten guests were also invited to the banquet. During the banquet, the servants and kabuki never evaded, and the topics discussed between the master and the guests never involved current affairs. , let alone the Chen Shiru case.
But at the banquet, Shi Yue introduced him to a person named Fan Xiang.
Fan Chunren knew some of the guests who attended the meeting that day, and some did not.Shi Yue just introduced strangers he didn't know, except Fan Xiang.Every day in Shangshu Province, he bows his head and does not see him, how can he not recognize him?But he also tacitly pretended to never know each other.
Sure enough, the next day, Fan Xiang took the opportunity of sending the document to the Ministry of Punishment to meet Fan Chunren alone, and conveyed to him Shi Yue's intention to use offense as defense.
This student of Shi Yue is very alert, and he speaks euphemistically without any trace.Fan Chunren knew very well in his heart that both Shi Yue and Fan Xiang were worried that they were pedantic and inflexible Confucian scholars, and would resent the methods of political strategists.They are afraid of being self-defeating, so they are very careful about everything and every sentence. They always try to find out first, and only dare to take the next step and say the next sentence after getting his response.
Thanks to Fan Xiang for this kind of communication, he can speak clearly.
However, they underestimated Fan Chunren. As early as in Shaanxi, Fan Chunren already believed in his heart that Shi Yue was a political strategist.Fan Chunren also believes that Shi Yue should be guarded against, but also be relied upon.Shi Yue is certainly not a gentleman, but he is not a villain either.Moreover, Fan Chunren knew very well in his heart that if he wanted to deal with Lu Huiqing and Shu Yu, he could only rely on Shi Yue's skills.Even before Shi Jian sent the invitation, he believed that Shi Yue would not stand idly by.Fundamentally speaking, Fan Chunren judged that Shi Yue was also a person who took the world as his own responsibility as his father said.
Sure enough, Shi Yue did not disappoint him.
Shi Yue's attitude was very clear. There was no possibility of overturning Chen Shiru's case. Even if Shi Yue could see the emperor himself, he would not use this matter to upset the emperor.Regardless of whether Su Song thought about breaking the law or not, because he had a precedent of lightly indulging monks before, even if he jumped into the Yellow River at this time, he couldn't wash it away; What's more, there is no guarantee that Shu Quan will not be accused of other crimes.Therefore, if one wants to recover from this, it is almost impossible to get involved in such an extremely bad case. Even if the emperor wants to calm down the matter in his heart, it may not be possible when the trouble has reached this point.
This judgment coincides with Fan Chunren's.
What really surprised Fan Chunren was Shi Yue's countermeasure.
On the one hand, she forbeared and said nothing, which made Lu Huiqing and Shu Quan get carried away with pride.Lu Huiqing has this opportunity, and will definitely take the opportunity to eradicate dissidents as much as possible in order to monopolize the power. Although this case is not enough to kill political opponents, it is enough to relegate them to distant places.However, using this method of indiscriminately building a big prison will inevitably make everyone feel insecure. Although many ministers dare not speak up, even if they want to protect themselves, they will definitely not want Lu Huiqing to continue to be in power; The easier it is to recognize him as a person.On the other hand, evidence is collected secretly. Lu Huiqing and Shu Yu are officials who are not innocent. As long as stronger evidence is quickly found to fight back, no matter whether Lu Huiqing and Shu Yu can be brought down in the end, this will be overwhelming. The big purge turned into a big melee.Moreover, the more messy the better, the more messy, the easier it is to shift focus.
Fan Xiang said it very tactfully, but he was also very clear that the presiding judge of this case is Shu Yu, so Shu Yu must be brought down first!But we can’t just attack Shu Quan, we must attack Lu Huiqing, Shu Quan, and everyone who made the most noise in this case at the same time, and there must be direct evidence for impeachment, so that Kaifeng Mansion, Dali Temple, Yushitai, etc. , all involved.
However, this countermeasure has one of the biggest shortcomings. Although Lu Huiqing, Shu Quan and others are not honest officials, it is very difficult to collect strong evidence in a hurry.
But Fan Xiang didn't mention this shortcoming. Perhaps, in the eyes of Shi Yue and Fan Xiang, this is not a problem at all.The so-called smearing only needs plausible evidence.It looks direct and forceful.
This is indeed a way that a gentleman can't think of.
But it is also a method that a gentleman should not use.
However, it will certainly be effective.
Fan Chunren thought in his heart, what would happen to Sima Guang?He sighed in his heart, needless to say, Sima Guang would definitely not agree.Even though he was a traitor, he could only get what he deserved. If he didn't deserve it, Sima Guang would even defend Fan Chunren regardless of the cost, because Fan Chunren himself would do such an unwise behavior.
If the distinction between a gentleman and a villain is confused, then what are these gentlemen guarding?
The so-called gentleman is to do something and not to do something.
Shi Yue's method, no matter how euphemistic and high-sounding Fan Xiang said, is in essence a party struggle and accusations.
Can a gentleman deceive his heart?
Fan Chunren, who was hesitating between morality and political interests, didn't notice the progress of the carriage at all. He didn't recover from the battle between heaven and man until the driver yelled at the carriage to stop.He glanced at the tall turret with phoenix eaves and dragon pillars on the west side of the car, which was magnificent.Fan Chunren knew that he had reached the Xiye Gate, so he got off the carriage and walked into the imperial city.
Fan Gong.Fan Chunren had just walked to the Xiye Gate when he heard someone calling him behind him.He quickly stopped and turned around, only to see Han Zhongyan walking from behind with fists in his hands and a smile on his face.Fan Chunren hurriedly saluted and said with a smile: Shi Pu.After exchanging a few words of pleasantries, the two entered the palace together.Fan Chunren knew that Han Zhongyan was a very popular person, and he was Han Qi's son after all, and he was more sympathetic to the old party in terms of political stance, but he had no close friendship with Han Zhongyan, and he was only heard that he was a very cowardly person with little responsibility. There's nothing to say, just gossips that don't matter.Han Zhongyan also seemed to cherish words like gold, so he just walked for a while, seeing that Fan Chunren was going to the Zhengshitang, Han Zhongyan glanced at no one around, suddenly stopped, and said with a smile: Fan Gongyi made a decision early.
Fan Chunren was startled for a moment, and looked at Han Zhongyan in surprise.But Han Zhongyan laughed again and said: It is said that Wen Zhenggong once talked about his three sons, thinking that he got a word of loyalty.Fan Gong is not a person who is wise and protects himself. Now he is uncharacteristically, and the lower officials speculate wildly, thinking that there must be some conspiracy.
These words made Fan Chunren even more surprised. He never thought that Han Zhongyan had such insight, and the intention of showing favor in the words could not be more obvious.Fan Chunren was immediately refreshed, looked at Han Zhongyan, and said: "I am not avoiding trouble, I just wish I could meet the emperor Pu Chaoxi to serve His Majesty, since I have this intention, why?"
Han Zhongyan avoided his gaze as if evading, and refused to answer his words, just smiled and refused to speak.過了一小會，方又抱拳道︰太后召見，下官不便久留。范公恕罪。說罷長揖一禮，竟匆匆告退而去。
范純仁站在那裡，望著他的背影，咀嚼著他的那兩句話，越發的覺得撲朔迷離。他不覺搖了搖頭，到政事堂打了個轉這些日子呂惠卿不論當不當值，每天都會到政事堂坐堂，理由是冠冕堂皇的︰皇帝病重，西南干戈未息，身為首相，自然沒有道理偷懶的。范純仁參見過呂惠卿，卻見當值的馮京坐在榻上，埋頭看他的公文。見著他進來，只是抬頭笑笑，也不說話。待他坐下，才聽馮京乾巴巴地笑道︰堯夫也來了。方才秦少游來辭行皇上雖聖體違和，居然還特意許他到延和殿入辭，這等恩寵，連你我皆有不及，真是罕見。
范純仁聽語氣中略帶酸意，不禁笑道︰秦觀要走了麼？
Isn't it?皇上御批，欲調狄諮為杭州知州，以豐稷知廣州，要我等議定以聞。馮京不緊不慢地說道，說罷，有意無意拿眼睛瞄了一眼呂惠卿。
皇上病情好轉了？范純仁立時興奮起來，瞇著眼睛望著馮京，但說話卻只是平常的語氣，道︰杭州、廣州，如今亦算是國家東南兩個大鎮。兩州知州更是權傾東南不知呂相公與馮公以為如何？杭州知州與廣州知州的確稱得上是目前宋朝東南兩個最重要的職位，分別節制著宋朝兩支最重要的海船水軍力量，是宋朝海外戰略的兩個最重要的基點，但在這時候，范純仁其實已經根本不在乎這兩個知州的人選了皇帝的身體有所好轉才是最重要的，如果能夠面見皇帝
熙寧以來的慣例，皇帝除了每逢朔日在文德殿、望日在紫宸殿接見常參官外，平時每天辰時以前，都會在垂拱殿接見諸如兩府宰執、諸部寺監的長官與次官，以及開封府等重要機構的長官，瞭解全國的重大政治問題；而在節假日與每天的上午，皇帝則會在延和殿或者崇政殿，接見單獨請對的宰執、臺諫、侍從官甚至是地方官等大臣。做為一個勤政的皇帝，甚至在夜晚，皇帝也會經常在內東門小殿或者睿思殿、福寧殿召見翰林學士、宰執大臣，處理政務。十幾年來，趙頊極少會有不視朝的時候。但這次大病卻非同尋常，垂拱殿與崇政殿的早朝早就罷了，連每月朔、望兩次的朝會，也被迫廢止。雖然趙頊經常也會強打精神在延和殿，甚至是睿思殿召見臣下聆聽軍國大事，勉強處理一些要務，但尚書省這一塊，幾乎所有的事情都由呂惠卿代奏，樞府的韓維雖然也有機會面見皇帝，然而每次皇帝召見的時間不到兩刻鐘，呂惠卿每次向皇帝稟奏的軍國重事，常常就要花去四分之三的時間，韓維連樞府的本分大事都沒機會說完，哪裡敢再提及其他。至於李清臣與韓忠彥，兩人雖然每天都在待漏院候著，隨時以備諮詢，但這兩人都不是甚有擔當的人，李清臣文多質少，與司馬光、范純仁關係其實一般得很，不會替舊黨說話；韓忠彥以往給的印象，就是一個庸庸碌碌的世家公子，小心謹慎到了讓人感覺懦弱的地步，除非皇帝問到什麼，題外話自是一句也不要指望。
呂惠卿與舒亶敢於為所欲為，在范純仁看來，也是直接與當前的政治現實有關的。倘若皇帝身體好轉，或者范純仁等人有機會面聖，縱然不能馬上制止舒亶的大膽妄為，亦能使其所有忌憚。那局面就會大有改觀。尤其是，范純仁一直還在擔憂皇帝的用心。
所以，馮京話裡透露出來的希望，不由得讓范純仁精神一振。皇帝不僅在延和殿召見秦觀，而且還主動關心起杭州、廣州知州的任命，那麼這一次，說不定就有機會面君。
呂惠卿坐在那裡，淡淡地瞥了范純仁一眼，停下筆來，皇上素有知人之明。他輕輕頓了下，又道︰但狄諮始終是武人，任廣州知州，已是有違祖制，何況是杭州？
祖制？呂惠卿的質疑，讓馮京與范純仁頓時結舌。盡可能不讓武官出任親民官，的確是宋朝的祖宗家法，不過由呂惠卿來維護這祖宗家法，卻怎麼樣都透著幾分滑稽。
這裡是醫官診斷、用藥的記錄抄本。呂惠卿從案上抽出幾張紙來，遞給馮京，今日皇上精神略好了些，這是國家之幸。但是呂惠卿喟然輕嘆，輕輕搖了搖頭。
馮京接過那幾張記錄，連忙認真的瀏覽起來。范純仁見他臉色漸漸蒼白，一顆心頓時又沉了下去。卻聽呂惠卿又說道︰依某之見，杭廣兩州太守之命，還是要等狄諮換了文資之後再說。與高麗的談判，不如還是先讓蔡京去一次杭州，他到底熟知高麗情事。此外，蘇頌這回只怕難以洗脫罪名了，皇上日前問我，欲以韓忠彥為開封府尹，未知二公意下如何？
韓忠彥倒沒什麼，只是蔡京馮京亦沒怎麼將韓忠彥放在心上，只覺那是韓琦的蔭澤，無可無不可；但是蔡京調回京師沒多久，卻又要被派往杭州他雖然不知道呂惠卿是何居心，但僅憑直覺，便已知其中沒有這麼簡單。
范純仁看呂惠卿神態，知他也頗看不起韓忠彥，他不由自主地又回想起剛才的一幕要說韓忠彥懦弱也可，但是他能說出那些話來，卻終是足以證明這人並不如眾人所認為的那樣簡單。但這時候也無暇多想，因道︰開封府始終是要地，以韓忠彥鎮之，忠臣世家之後，足可託付。不過，與高麗的談判，我以為交給秦觀便可，朝廷無須再派使者。否則顯得朝廷朝令夕改，失信於人。且太府寺亦是事繁之地，蔡京善會理財，可為薛向良助，不宜輕離。
但呂惠卿原本卻沒有要故意支走蔡京的意思。皇帝因為狄詠與清河的原因，一直也想重用狄諮，但卻屢屢受阻，主要原因還是狄諮的出身。狄諮是熙寧間極為少有的以武資做親民官的例子，政事堂與臺諫對此早有不滿。原本皇帝想讓狄諮換成文資，調回汴京進入中樞，結果受到汴京士大夫的歧視與排擠而未果。不知是否是受此刺激，後來皇帝想讓狄諮先換成文資，竟被狄諮拒絕了。他上表公開宣稱，寧可不做知州，也要做武官。結果此事就僵在那裡了。這次皇帝無非是想給狄諮找個臺階下。但是，狄諮與豐稷，都與石越關係非淺，呂惠卿也不願意石黨長期把持東南要鎮，因此老調重彈，先將這事拖下去。推薦蔡京，不過是想把臺面做得漂亮而已。結果卻沒有料到，這麼簡單的一個推薦，竟然被馮京、范純仁異口同聲的反對。呂惠卿頓時覺到一種異樣要知道，這兩個人已經有一陣子沒有反對過自己的主張了。
他心中猜疑，臉上卻不露聲色，只淡淡說道︰既如此，還是交給秦少游罷。
當天晚上，呂惠卿一回到府中，便派人送了劄子去太府寺卿薛向府中，請薛向過府敘話。當年王安石為相，稱得上新黨幹將的，除了王元澤外，不過韓絳、呂惠卿、曾布、鄧綰、蔡確、薛向等數人而已。這些人中，韓絳資歷較高，鄧綰很早就遭斥，呂惠卿、曾布、蔡確，雖然同為新黨天王級的人物，但除了對王安石外，彼此間卻互不服氣，明爭暗鬥從未停止過。呂惠卿雖然最終在政治鬥爭上勝出，接過王安石的衣缽，十年為相，繼續主持熙寧變法；但是新黨經過這一內耗，其實也元氣大傷，曾布、蔡確相繼被貶往海外當年王安石變法之時，新黨便已是人材奇缺，至呂惠卿執政時，新黨所能依賴的，只能是常秩、舒亶、陳元鳳這種資歷、聲望更淺的官員。像章惇、陸佃這樣資歷的人，因為對呂惠卿不滿，許多人都倒向石黨，留下來的也是新法多過呂惠卿，這些人都是呂惠卿所指望不上的。這也是呂惠卿在執政期間沒有推行過於激烈的改革路線，維持與舊黨、石黨共同分享權力的重要原因之一。要知道，當年王安石執政時，不僅是皇帝唯一的選擇，而且又有崇高的道德威望，在政府中，有韓、呂、曾三大助手，先後又有鄧綰、蔡確掌握臺諫，整個新黨毫無選擇地團結在王安石的周圍，自然比較有底氣大膽改革，也不那麼害怕政治鬥爭。但呂惠卿執政十年，卻從來沒有過這樣的好事。外有司馬光、石越掣肘，連臺諫都無法完全控制；內則始終無法有效地統合新黨，為了鞏固自己的權位，呂惠卿被迫從現實主義出發，做出了大量的妥協。但即使是這樣，呂惠卿也從未動過念頭要引薛向進中樞幫助自己。薛向早在仁宗之時，便以財計聞名，長期在永興軍路（即陝西路）等地擔任轉運使，政績卓著；熙寧初年，又曾經是均輸法的實際執行者，做過六路發運使，權傾東南。而且，因為長期在外，只短暫擔任過權三司使，旋即又轉任地方，遠離汴京的紛爭，也是早期新黨天王中，除了呂惠卿以外碩果僅存的一個人。但也正因如此，不能真正統合新黨的呂惠卿，更加不願意新黨中再出現可能的競爭對手，因此，儘管二人私交甚好，但呂惠卿為相期間，多半的時間薛向卻都在各路任轉運使等官職熙寧西討的時候，皇帝因薛向熟知陝西情事，曾經想召他為同知樞密院事，負責軍需後勤，亦為呂惠卿所阻，只是這事幾乎沒幾個人知道。直到不久前，呂惠卿幾乎自保不暇，薛向才得以進入中樞，擔任太府寺卿。其後，呂惠卿為了拉攏薛向，更是暗示只待皇帝病好，便引他進入政事堂當參知政事。薛向雖然明知道呂惠卿有猜忌自己之心，但是他執行均輸法之時，得罪過不少人，舊黨很不喜歡他，而與石越雖無舊隙，但是石黨正是倒楣之時，石越自顧不暇，他也指望不上更何況，他資歷遠高於石越，又不像曾布受過挫折且與石越私交甚密，他也未嘗沒有恥居其下之心。所以雖說熬了十幾年，到頭來，他暫時能倚賴的，還是只有呂惠卿。
薛向雖然資歷很深，但他知道汴京實稱得上是龍潭虎穴，甫入京師，自己並無半點根基，更不敢造次。只是安安分份做著自己的太府寺卿，一面往來公卿之府，一面卻密切地關注著汴京政局的變換。接到呂惠卿的劄子後，薛向便知定有要事，也不敢怠慢，連忙叫了馬車，風急火燎地趕到呂惠卿的相府。
到了相府，呂惠卿親自迎到中門，卻不去客廳，一路領著他逕直往花園而去。薛向見呂惠卿神色如常，對自己的禮儀、態度亦一如平常，心裡更加捉摸不定。對汴京局勢，他既是局中人，亦是局外人。幾十年宦海沉浮，讓薛向很敏感地意識到，呂惠卿現在的處境，其實遠沒有表面的那麼風光。朝中的平衡的確已經被打破，但天平未必就是朝向呂惠卿這一邊偏移，更不用說佔據壓倒性的優勢。在這個時候，呂惠卿忽然利用舒亶，借著一件偶然的事件，與舊黨幾乎是進行著不留後路的決戰，薛向始終想不清楚是為什麼這根本不是他所瞭解的呂惠卿。
本來，呂惠卿是得意還是倒楣，薛向也並不關心。但是，現在卻不同了，他已經六十八歲！
雖然自覺身體還很硬朗，可這麼老了還不請求致仕，朝中臺諫彈劾之章，同列譏諷之聲，早已是不絕於耳。但薛向做了幾十年的官，這時候若是說還有什麼所求的，便只有一樣了如若不能位致宰執，難免死不瞑目。如今眼見離達成心願只有一步之遙
薛向的心裡，也如同有一面鼓一般，在不停地催促著他。
僕人們引導著呂惠卿與薛向進了花園的一間水榭之內，裡面早已佈置好了茶果點水之類。薛向見水榭之中就擺了一張桌子，兩把椅子，忙請呂惠卿坐了主位。呂惠卿亦不謙讓，笑著坐了，一面吩咐侍女倒酒，一面笑道︰師正不是外人，我亦不鬧那些玄虛。今晚請師正過來，便是想清清靜靜地說點話。說罷，也不等薛向回話，抬抬眼皮看了侍女一眼，倒完酒的侍女連忙欠身緩緩退下，頃刻之間，水榭之內，便只剩下呂惠卿與薛向兩人。呂惠卿一隻手端起酒杯，雙目注視薛向，淡淡問道︰不知師正以為今日之勢如何？
他單刀直入地這麼一問，薛向的眼皮不由得猛地一跳。呂吉甫這是有求於我！只在一瞬間，薛向腦中立時閃過一個念頭。但薛向卻絕不敢向呂惠卿討價還價，他並沒有昏了頭呂惠卿知道他想要什麼，也知道他想的東西，必須通過他才能得到。這時候和呂惠卿討價還價，不過是自取其辱。
想要什麼，要靠自己！
薛向忽然覺得喉嚨有點乾，使勁咽了一口口水，笑道︰相公當比我更清楚。
師正！呂惠卿盯著薛向看了很久，終於嘆了口氣，皇上勵精圖治十七年，我等嘔心瀝血，前僕後繼，國家才有今天這個局面。這次爭的，不是個人的榮辱，而是大宋的前途！順著介甫開創的這條路走下去，天下必能致太平；但若是中途而廢，而百里者半九十，再回到那些因循守舊的腐儒手中，我們十餘年的辛苦，就算是白忙一場了！
雖是如此，但只要有皇上在，公復何憂？且這麼多偽君子身陷陳世儒案，連司馬光亦未能倖免，相公又有何懼？薛向瞇著眼睛笑道。
呂惠卿卻忽然沉默下來，冷冰冰地望著薛向。
薛向忽然感覺後脖發涼，他避開呂惠卿的眼神，試探著問道︰難道、難道皇上
皇上雖有小恙，但無大礙。呂惠卿毫不猶豫地回道。
但薛向卻是不怎麼相信的。但他也不肯揭破他忽然想起呂惠卿給過自己的暗示等皇帝病好，如果皇帝的病不好呢？hey-hey!但薛向卻如釋重負地鬆了口氣，笑道︰菩薩保佑。其實依我之見，有些事情，相公原是應當略忍一忍的。這回那些君子們醜態畢露，但舒亶也太大膽了些，不免有些連累到相公。
師正一向是快言快語的，今晚怎麼吞吞吐吐了？
我的意思是，這次陳世儒案牽連這許多公卿，原本或只是依法窮追，這也無可指摘。但是那些犯官狗急跳牆，亦難免會胡亂攀污。舒亶辦案似嫌輕率了些，這種大案，還是當諸事請旨的好。像司馬康、吳安持、蔡渭這些人，總要稍留些體面。似他這般辦案，全不給自己留退步，苛刻過甚，朝議洶洶，倒似是他在藉機黨爭一般，還連累了相公。
御史辦案，與我何干？呂惠卿詫道。
相公既要我直言，自己為何又不肯推心置腹？薛向卻不肯讓呂惠卿這般裝模做樣，諸君子們可都以為舒亶不過是相公的黨羽而已且不管他是不是，他這般莽撞，人家卻不免把賬記在相公頭上。苛酷二字，不是甚好名聲。恕我直言，今日誤相公者，舒亶矣！
師正亦以為我能差使得動舒亶麼？呂惠卿半真半假地苦笑道，師正素知我與司馬光不和，若說我看不慣他假仁假義，想將他逐出朝廷在師正面前，我亦不說假話，這個心我是有的。但我又何苦搞得滿城風雨，人人自危？朝廷好不容易安穩下來，當年介甫是不得已我這又是何苦？
薛向聽他這番話之意，倒似乎是呂惠卿並不願意把事情鬧得如此大，而竟是舒亶一意孤行，將呂惠卿綁上了賊船。他將信將疑，卻反問道︰相公的這番苦心，誰能知之？
這句話卻是正中要害。
呂惠卿的確是想借陳世儒案打擊舊黨，借這個難得的機會，鞏固自己的政治權威。但他的目標，原本只是借著呂公著與蘇頌，一面殺雞駭猴，一面清算一些舊黨臺諫，並不想把事情鬧得這麼大。但誰知道舒亶意欲揚名，不知道吃了什麼熊心豹子膽，竟然牽出了司馬光之子司馬康。呂惠卿眼見著有機可乘，當然不會介意趁機驅逐司馬光，亦不加制止，反而暗地裡縱容他哪裡知道還有一個雍王唆使石得一在舒亶那裡推波助瀾，倒以為只是舒亶在迎合己意而已。誰料舒亶自知得罪舊黨，已無退路，為了佔據主動，亦是為了自己的前途，越發肆無忌憚，竟然又逮捕吳安持、蔡渭，牽連更甚，搞得朝中人人自危。呂惠卿對此事先並不知情，但一旦木已成舟，他心裡雖然怨怪舒亶魯莽，卻也只能默認這個事實他也不是不知道，對於舒亶而言，既然連司馬光都得罪了，就不怕把事情再鬧大些，事情鬧大了，就是逼著呂惠卿與舊黨決戰，這樣他舒亶才能有機會全身而退。否則，他辦了這個案子之後，成為舊黨最痛恨的公敵，舊黨緩過神來，首當其衝的就是他舒亶他不能當過呂惠卿的槍後，又當呂惠卿的盾牌。
舒亶的確是個聰明人，如今的情勢，正如薛向所說，人人都以為是呂惠卿主使，舒亶不過是呂惠卿手中的大槍，呂惠卿反倒成了舒亶的大盾牌。
呂惠卿默然不語誰能知之？誰會相信他？舊黨不會相信，新黨也不會相信；皇帝不會相信，司馬光、石越，甚至是他面前的這個薛向，都不會相信！既然人人都不相信，那麼是不是事實，根本就不重要。
薛向已經知道他幾乎說動了呂惠卿。
皇上是個念舊的人聽說陳世儒案，皇帝最初還想過要念陳執中的情分，留他一條命下來。舒亶口口聲聲司馬康涉案，時至今日，可曾有司馬康半句口供？薛向的話已近於直白，休道是馮當世，便是司馬光恕我直言，只要司馬康不伏罪，終亦不會有事。相公熟知早年故事，皇上初登大位之時，是先想過讓司馬光為相的；是他不識時務，皇上才決定起用介甫。這些年司馬為計相，可曾出過半點差錯？十幾年君臣的情分相公以為皇上會全不顧惜麼？
呂惠卿越發的動搖起來。皇帝的心思，他比誰都清楚。趙頊最初只不過是惱怒蘇頌等人枉法徇私，一時激怒，才令舒亶窮治此案。不料舒亶竟藉機興大獄這可不是皇帝的本意。只不過舒亶有個大義的名分，皇帝又在病重之中，少知外事，一時間也無力制止。在皇帝那裡，現在還以為司馬康涉案不深呢！
舒亶若真能把案子辦成鐵案，倒也罷了。
但是皇帝也不是那麼好唬弄的。
這也是呂惠卿始終放不下心來的原因。當今皇帝，不是可以任人擺弄於手掌之中的庸主。
倘若司馬與馮當世最終果然無事薛向枯瘦的臉上，花白鬍子一抖一抖的，皇上乃是英主，舒亶做出這等事來，皇上雖一時不察，終必厭之！若萬一有不諱之事，少主年幼，自是太后當國
薛向說到這裡便閉上了嘴巴。
的確，後面的話是不消多說的。
除非對舊黨取得徹底的勝利，到時候皇帝也好，太后也好，都只好承認既成事實。否則，表面的局勢看起來越是樂觀，實際上就越是危險。但是，舊黨不是那麼容易打倒的。范純仁聰明的保全著實力，而蔡京呂惠卿想起今日在政事堂的事情，心裡就越發的感覺到不安。石越和他的黨羽們，可遠比舊黨那些迂腐的儒生們危險。
如之奈何？呂惠卿忍不住喃喃問道。
為相公計，如今須要留一個退步。薛向的小眼睛裡閃著精光。
退步？呂惠卿笑了起來，那是苦澀的笑聲，我有退路麼？我實是無路可退！行百里半九十，今日之局面，來之不易，我哪裡還有退路？
若非是司馬光們咄咄逼人，非要將他從相位上拉下來，他當初又何苦讓舒亶去查舊黨大臣的私隱不法之事？如今舒亶已經不顧一切地將自己綁上了一條船上，這時候，他還能有退步麼？
未必沒有，但看相公肯不肯行？薛向的心跳也快了起來。
oh?呂惠卿有點意外地看著薛向。
譬如與一狂人共渡，有必覆之危。當此之時，勇者逐之，智者避之。
勇者逐之，智者避之？呂惠卿沉吟道。
癲狂之人，不足為恃。所謂兩害相權取其輕，相公若能丟卒保車，請皇上更換法官，將案件限於呂公著、蘇頌，釋司馬康、吳安持、蔡渭之輩。則亡羊補牢