Chapter 9 Chapter 7 The Great Coup
During Shizong's reign, Mu Zong was in Prince Yu's mansion and married his concubine Changping Li, who was later posthumously named Empress Xiaoyi.In April of the thirty-seventh year of Jiajing, Concubine Li died. In August, King Yu married his second concubine, the Chen family of Tongzhou.Concubine Li of Changping gave birth to a son, Yiyun, who died at the age of five.Under Yiji, there is Yiling, whose mother has no test and died before she was one year old. Therefore, when Yijun, the third son of King Yu was born in the 42nd year of Jiajing, he was especially favored by King Yu because he was the only son. .
King Yu loved women, and he was most proud of the Li family of Huo County, who was later posthumously named Empress Xiaoding.When Mrs. Li entered the palace, she was just a palace lady; she was called Duren at that time.This is Yijun's mother. In the first year of Longqing, after Mu Zong came to the throne, she was named a noble concubine.Concubine Li Gui is a capable and methodical person.Her father, Li Wei, from Huo County, fled to Beijing because of the unrest in the countryside. Later, he simply sent his daughter to Prince Yu's Mansion to be a maid of honor, but he never thought that all the wealth and honor in the future would come from here.When Mu Zong came to the throne, Gao Yi, Minister of the Ministry of Rites, invited him to be the crown prince. The ministers all believed that Yijun was a smart prince.The fact is obvious, this five-year-old child has already read, and this is a special case under the circumstances that the emperor of the Ming Dynasty did not pay much attention to the education of the prince.In the second year of Longqing, He Shugong, a scholar of the cabinet, asked Yijun to be the crown prince. In March, he was registered.Mu Zong really liked it too.He remembered that one day when he was riding a horse in the palace, the Crown Prince said to him:
Dad, you are riding a horse alone and fell off, what should you do?
Mu Zong was so happy to see his son's concern, he got off his horse quickly to comfort him.During this period, Empress Chen lived in another palace because of her illness. Every morning, Concubine Li took the crown prince to pay her respects to the Empress Palace.Then he got up quickly.I don't have a son, but I am really happy to see such a smart child.The queen took out the scriptures and asked him sentence by sentence, and the prince answered them fluently, which won the queen's favor even more.Although there were some conflicts of interest between the empress and the concubine, when Empress Chen saw Li Guifei's courtesy and the crown prince's intelligence, her heart calmed down.The immature psychology of the crown prince is gradually realizing the role of politics.
In April of the sixth year of Longqing, Gao Gong recommended Gao Yi, the former Minister of Rites, to join the cabinet.It was the month when Mu Zong ordered Yi to be a bachelor of the Wenhua Palace and to work in the cabinet.Everything is normal.
The biggest disaster came. One day in May, when Mu Zong was sitting in court, he suddenly stood up and walked a few steps. , "History of Ming Dynasty" does not record Mu Zong's symptoms.), obviously it was a stroke, the internal supervisor Feng Bao was by his side, he caught up with him, and Juzheng rushed to help him.Amidst the fear and trepidation of the public, Mu Zong entered the palace.Immediately, Gao Gong, Zhang Juzheng, and Gaoyi were summoned to the Qianqing Palace. Mu Zong was reclining on the imperial couch, the empress and imperial concubines were there, and the crown prince stood on the left side of the imperial couch.The three grand scholars knelt in front of the imperial couch.Mu Zong was tired, and the internal supervisor Feng Bao issued an edict:
My heir has ruled Fang for six years, and now he is seriously ill and will not be able to afford it, and he has to bear the entrustment of the late emperor.The prince is still young, so I entrust everything to you.It is a great contribution to the country to assist the heir emperor and abide by the ancestral system.
What a bleak picture.It's hard to bear to see my friend Tuogu, not to mention that they are lecturers in Prince Yu's mansion and cabinet ministers for six years!But the Qianqing Palace is not a place for them to cry.Gao Gong and Zhang Juzheng kowtowed with tears in their eyes, and Gao Yi who was sobbing, and returned to the cabinet. This is May Jiyou.The next day Gengxu, Emperor Mu Zong passed away.Ministers wept bitterly in the cabinet.Gao Gong wailed: How can a ten-year-old prince rule the world!He felt more and more serious about the responsibility.
After Mu Zong's death, a new political force emerged.This is Feng Bao.Feng Bao was already the eunuch of Si Li Bingbi in the Sejong Dynasty. When Mu Zong ascended the throne, Feng Bao repeatedly wanted to be promoted to the eunuch of Zhangyin, but because of Gao Gong's opposition, he never achieved his goal, so he and Gao Gong formed an indissoluble enmity.The politics of the Ming Dynasty were originally full of flexibility, so the scope of the duties and powers of the Supervisor of Rituals was not definite.In name, the eunuch is in charge of the internal and external chapters and the imperial reconnaissance.In fact, their authority can be expanded infinitely.Taking charge of the chapters is an opportunity to play up and down.The approval of Zhu according to the cabinet vote is to make the final judgment on the decree drafted by the cabinet vote with a Zhu pen.This was originally the emperor's own business, (see Zoushu 5 "Jinshizong Yubishu") Later, the emperor became irresponsible, and the matter of criticizing Zhu fell into the hands of the eunuch Si Li Bingbi, so although the university scholar was the emperor's private secretary, The eunuch Bingbi became the emperor's confidential secretary. "History of Ming Dynasty."Official Records" (Volume 72) stated that the drafting of the cabinet had to be determined by the approval of the internal supervisor, and the eunuch who transferred the power to the prime minister was the norm in the political system of the Ming Dynasty.During Emperor Wuzong's time, Liu Jin, the supervisor of ceremonies, even took Zhang Zou back to his private residence, where he and his sister-in-law Sun Cong and diner Zhang Wenmian commented together.The emperor's confidential secretary can invite relatives and friends to participate in state affairs at any time, which is a big change among abnormalities.From the second year to the fifth year of Emperor Wuzong Zhengde, Liu Jin became the de facto emperor. In August of the fifth year, after Liu Jin failed, Emperor Wuzong issued an edict, and all the changes since Zhengde two years later remained the same; in fact, it was only for Liu Jin during these three years. position, to be a practical understanding.
From the death of Mu Zong in Gengxu in May to the enthronement in Shenzong on the 10th day of June, during these fifteen days, Feng Bao was active.Feng Bao's plan was to expel Meng Chong, the eunuch who was in charge of ceremonies, and seize his position. Because of the sympathy of the empress and imperial concubine, this plan was realized ("History of the Ming Dynasty" Volume 305 "Feng Bao Biography"), but the period of realization was different. Can not be sure. "Feng Baozhuan" is said to be just after Mu Zong's death (it is said that Mu Zongfu died), Hu Weizhuan ("Ming History" Volume 215 "Chen Wude Biography" attached) is said to be on the sixth day of Shenzong's accession to the throne, there is a gap of 20 days in between .In fact, before Shenzong came to the throne, the organization to implement the edict had not yet been completed; as for the sixth day of Shenzong's ascension, it was the day of a major coup d'état, and without Feng Bao's previous activity, there would have been no coup d'état at all.Therefore, we might as well assume that Feng Baosheng's hand-sealed eunuch must be on the day of Shenzong's accession to the throne, or thereafter, no later than the sixth day.The completion of this plan was roughly before Shenzong ascended the throne, and only after Shenzong ascended the throne to perform the formalities of publication.
"History of Ming Dynasty."Feng Baojiao Biography" stated: "Bao Youjiao's edict, the order and the cabinet ministers were ordered by Gu Ming, while "The Chronicle of Ming History" stated that Feng Baojiao's biography said that the cabinet ministers and the ceremonial supervisor were jointly ordered by Gu.It is also a horrific record.It was not uncommon in the Ming Dynasty for the inner prison and the ministers to be ordered by Gu.In Jiazong's Tianqi, Yushi Wang Yuncheng impeached Wei Jin's Zhongshu: the inner court took care of the fate, the dog ate the rest, and did not cover it; 246 "The Biography of Wang Yuncheng") indeed pointed out the story that the minister and the inner eunuch were both ordered by Gu.But Gao Gong, Ju Zheng, and Gao Yi were all ordered by Gu, and no one else was involved. This is a fact.At the time of Mu Zong's death, Meng Chong was still the eunuch of Zhangyin, and there was no reason to surpass Meng Chong and Tuogu Feng Bao.Therefore, there are Feng Bao's correctional edicts, but only the correctional edicts are used as rites and seals for eunuchs, and it is not that the correctional edicts are also subject to Gu Ming.The most tangible evidence can be found in the collection of texts:
In the past, with diligence, sincerity and sensitivity, he was known by Yu Suzu (Sejong) to often call it a capitalized character but not his name.Nothing, that is to say, to worship the priest and to shut down the internal affairs.Jiajing Bingyin welcomes Emperor Muzong and honors his younger brothers and nephews for several generations with his meritorious service.Without hesitation, Mu Zong called his assistant ministers to the imperial couch and accepted Gu's order.Public announcement of the edict, the tone is sad.Today, Shang Jianzuo, following the last emperor's will, is in charge of the company and the supervisor of ceremonies. (Collected Works Nine "The Eunuch Feng Gongyu's Shouzang Ji")
This article was written in the second year of Wanli, when Juzheng was in power and married Feng Bao, if Feng Bao had been cowarded and accepted Gu's order, why didn't the record mention his status clearly; and the latter part is called Feng Bao was in charge of the supervisor of ceremonies, and in the palace and mansion, there were no matters big or small. He consulted Yu Yu before he acted.Therefore, according to Juzheng's records, it can be confirmed that Feng Bao did not rectify the edict and was ordered by Gu Ming. At the same time, it can also be confirmed that Feng Bao was a palm-sealed eunuch after Shenzong ascended the throne. "Feng Baozhuan" is also known as: Mu Zong was ill, so he kept a secret order to Juzheng Yucao's will, which was seen by Gong.Thank you from the front. (The "Ming History" Volume 213 "Gao Gong Zhuan" and "Juzheng Zhuan" are not included.) Obviously, it is also an unfounded story.After Mu Zong had a sudden stroke, he immediately summoned his ministers into the palace and gave Gu orders face-to-face ("Wen Zhonggong Xingshi" records that after returning to the palace with support, he said that he would sit down for a while. He passed away the next day, and there was no hesitation during that period, so Feng Mi could be given the opportunity to order Juzheng Yucao's will.Moreover, with Juzheng's meticulousness, there is absolutely no hidden edict, and Gao Gong is more likely to see the truth; similarly, with Gao Gong's toughness, he will not immediately expose himself after revealing the secret of Juzheng's collusion with Feng Bao. The plan to overthrow Feng Bao was even discussed with Ju Zheng. (Refer to "History of Ming Dynasty. Gao Gong Biography") There are contradictions everywhere.Originally, this coup d'état was a sudden and major event, and it would inevitably arouse the resentment of some people in the future.When the history was compiled in the early Qing Dynasty, there was no determination to sort out the historical facts, so the records were not only full of contradictions, but also described as high-arched and upright, sometimes even forgetting the original appearance.
From Jiazi on the 10th day of June in the sixth year of Longqing to Gengwu on the 16th, during these seven days, the entire imperial court sank in the monstrous waves.In terms of political institutions, it is the opposition between the chief inspector and the cabinet; in terms of people, it is the opposition between Feng Bao and Gao Gong.Feng Bao's backing is the queen, the imperial concubine, especially the imperial concubine. Shenzong is only ten years old, so of course he stands by his mother.Gao Gong's backing is the six divisions, and the thirteen supervision censors.Gao Gong is an old fighter in the political world. He has defeated several elders, but of course he looks down on a new eunuch with palm prints.There are public opinion and the masses behind him; inside the cabinet, he knows that besides himself, there are only Gaoyi and Zhang Juzheng.Gao Yi was brought in by himself, and it was only two months since he was in the prime minister. Of course, he was the only one who followed the lead. As for Ju Zheng, Gao Gong believed that this was a colleague of more than ten years, and he was like-minded.Didn't Zhou, Zhao Jiafu, and Ju Zheng once said that?Gao Gong thought.There is no gap in the rear arrangement, and Gao Gong is preparing for a life-and-death decisive battle with Feng Bao.
What Gao Gong hated the most was Zhongzhi.Zhongzhi is the emperor's edict.In a modern constitutional monarchy, all edicts must be countersigned by the cabinet.The same is true in ancient China.In the era when there was the Ministry of Education, etc., edicts had to pass through the Ministry of Education, etc., and in the Ming Dynasty when it was changed to the cabinet, edicts had to go through the cabinet.In the Tang Dynasty, when Empress Wu was in power, politics was considered chaotic, but people at that time could still put forward the slogan of what is called an imperial edict without going through Fengge Luantai .).In the Ming Dynasty, outside the cabinet, there were the General Administration Department and the Six Divisions, which had the right to review and refute the emperor's edicts at any time. Therefore, the emperor's freedom to issue edicts at any time was severely restricted.However, the legal system is the legal system, and facts are facts. In the political situation that is not on the right track, handwritten orders are still unavoidable, and they have become obliquely sealed ink orders and central orders recorded in the annals of history.This is what a responsible minister hates most.
As soon as Shenzong ascended the throne, the imperial decree was issued to the cabinet, one of which was to quote Mu Zong's edict and grant Feng Bao the eunuch in charge of rites and seals.Gao Gong hated it very much, and said to the eunuch who delivered the decree:
Whose will is the central purpose?The emperor is very young!You did everything, and sooner or later you will be driven away.All the stern remarks were conveyed to Feng Bao by the inner eunuch.This made Feng Bao startled.He went to the queen and imperial concubine to tease them.He pointed out that on the day Mu Zong passed away, Gao Gong shouted in the cabinet: How can a ten-year-old child be an emperor!
What does it mean?After Feng Bao reformed Gao Gong's sentence, he questioned him again.The queen and imperial concubine all chanted what does this mean?They felt alarmed, and even the ten-year-old emperor suddenly changed color.In this regard, Feng Bao is laying out his front.
Gao Gong's offensive, of course, never slackened for a moment.He believed that he, Juzheng and Gaoyi were ministers of Gu Ming. He wanted to repay Emperor Muzong and assist Emperor Shenzong;Feng Bao's arrogance is getting bigger and bigger every day. He is the eunuch in charge of rites and seals, and now he is using Zhongzhi to admiral Dongchang.The admiral Dongchang took charge of the inside of the palace where Li was in charge of the seal.The spy job fell into his hands again. Didn't Feng Bao become a dictator?Gao Gong couldn't tolerate it, so he decided to attack.The first line of fire was given by Cheng Wen from the sixth division, and Liu Liangbi, the censor of the thirteenth division, moved forward together.Their memorials were sent out like a volley of artillery, and the common goal was only one Feng Bao.The second line of fire is that all the rites are given to Shi Zhonglu Shude, and all the officials are given to Shi Zhong Luo Zun.Shude attacked Feng Bao as the head of the Ritual Supervisor. His memorandum said:
After the death of the first emperor, it was suddenly rumored that Feng Bao was in charge of the supervisor of rites.According to the emperor's will, why not preach it a few days ago, but after dying?If His Majesty wishes, then the grief will be deep, and if there is no imperial court, why waste time thinking about Zhongguan?
This is the most logical argument to use.The only answer, of course, is neither Mu Zong nor Shen Zong, but Feng Baojiao.Corrective edicts will be punished by corrective edicts, and Gao Gong is preparing.Luo Zun was Gao Gong's disciple and even a general. He saw Feng Bao standing next to the throne when Shenzong was sitting in court, so he attacked.
Baoyi's servant dared to set up the throne of the emperor.Civil and military workers worship the emperor evil?Suppressing evil officials?To bully His Majesty, Xiao Chong, is so rude.
The two memorials were issued together again, and the common goal was only Feng Bao.At this time, it was Jisi, June 15, the sixth day of Shenzong's accession to the throne.The memorials were sent out one after another. Feng Bao was the eunuch in charge of rites and seals, and he was in charge of internal and external chapters.It doesn't matter, war is war, there is no need for secrets.All the plans were initiated by Gao Gong, given to Shizhong and the censors, and also under the direction of Gao Gong, so there is no need for secrets.In the past four years of Longqing, it has long been an open fact that Gao Gong has mingled with the officials. What's more, Admiral Feng Bao supervises the East Factory, and the privileges and agencies of the police are all in his hands.Gao Gong is only going to use the majestic formation, the banner of uprightness, to defeat a domineering inner prisoner.He knew that after the memorial was uploaded, the emperor would send it to the cabinet to draft an order, and he had the power in his own hands, so he didn't worry about what Feng Bao could do.He himself also went to Shu, please return the power of the supervisor of ceremonies to the cabinet.He is ready to take full responsibility, although of course he can ask for full power.He believed that under the careful arrangement, Feng Bao could be defeated this way.
What he worries about is his colleagues in the cabinet.When Gaoyi joined the cabinet in mid-April, he claimed to be sick and repeatedly pushed back.Juzheng also wrote him a letter: insulting the teaching, knowing Dongshan's love, and being so high above the barbarians, he has lost the hope of the government and the public.Zi Wenzhen issued it again, and urged him to persuade him more and more earnestly, fearing that his fate would not be resisted repeatedly, and things would not be lonely forever. (Book 3 "Answer to Zongbo Gao Nanyu") Later, Gao Yi really came, but he also fell ill.Gao Yi had heard about it before when he was under Gu's fate, but now he is really ill. In this regard, Gao Gong can't see any help.And Zhang Juzheng too!After the emperor ascended the throne, he was ordered to inspect the burial site in Dayuling. This was to prepare for the funeral of Emperor Mu Zong, and of course a competent minister should go there.It was hot and the road was hard. It is said that he fell ill again after he came back. He is on sick leave these days and has not been to the cabinet.Gao Gong saw that his two colleagues fell ill, and all the responsibilities were on his shoulders.It doesn't matter, he is ready to bear it alone.
Over the past few years, Juzheng has gradually felt the precarious situation.The colleagues in the cabinet have all gone, what is this for?In March of the sixth year, Pan Sheng, Minister of the Ministry of Rites, went again, and why?After Pan Sheng resigned, he sent a letter, and Juzheng replied:
Insult and farewell, learn one by one.Prime Minister Bai knows, but he still presses the sword, how about others?However, the study of righteousness and destiny has been learned by stealing.In self-examination of my life, I dare not fail the country for one thing, dare not fail the sages and officials of the world for one thought.Humiliate the beloved, hide it in the center. (Juzheng has "Yi Ming Shuo" in "Answer to Zong Bo Pan Shuilian" in the fourth book, see anthology VI.)
At that time, he thought that Gao Gong's goal was only himself, and he was not sure about the struggle. Liu Fenyong and Cao Daye had gone again, so he had to wait for his life quietly.His mood was turning from boredom to tranquility.Unexpectedly, after Mu Zong's death, new political forces emerged again, and it turned into a duel between the cabinet and the chief inspector.What cabinet?Juzheng thought, Gao Gong was alone!He understood that Feng Bao had nothing to do with him, Gao Gong's strategy, Feng Bao had no eyes and ears, and he had no need to inform him. ("History of Ming Dynasty. Gao Gong Zhuan" said that Gong made people report to Juzheng, and Ju Zhengyang promised him and privately protected him with words. "Feng Baozhuan" said that Bao and Juzheng decided to pursue Gong.) The method he adopted was just to sit and watch success or failure.Gao Gong won, Juzheng naturally still had his knowledge of righteousness and fate; Feng Baosheng, Juzheng knew that he had to clean up the political situation, and he was confident that he still had the ability to deal with Feng Bao.Mu Zong passed away only twenty days ago, and Shenzong took the throne only five or six days ago. The air is already extremely tense, and a storm is about to break out. Just wait.Under such circumstances, Juzheng only said that he had suffered from the heat and asked for a few days leave in the cabinet.
On Gengwu, June 16, before dawn, Shenzong summoned his ministers to Huiji Gate.Gao Gong went, thinking that this time was his chance to expel Feng Bao.Juzheng was still on vacation and didn't go. ("History of Ming Dynasty Chronicles at the End of the Year" said that Juzheng arrived. "History of Ming Dynasty. Gao Gongzhuan" said that the arch could not stand up, and Juzhengyi came out. It seemed that Juzheng had arrived at Huiji Gate at the same time. Based on Zhou Shengkai's "Zhang Juzheng Biography" In other words, it is said that Juzheng looked at the mausoleum, compared to returning, but the arch has gone, and it seems that Juzheng was still in Dayuling and had not returned. Zhou's "Biography" was written during the Chongzhen period, which should be credible. Then study Juzheng Zuoshu The second "Xie Zhao Jian Shu" said that only the mountain mausoleum was returned, and he was ill due to heat stroke, and he had to ask for leave for recuperation. On the nineteenth day of this month, I suddenly heard that the Chinese envoy passed the imperial decree and called the ministers to enter. Returning to Beijing, still on vacation.) Gao Gong looked up, and beside the young emperor, stood his enemy Feng Bao.At this moment of staring, Gao Gong knew that he had failed.Feng Baochuan's decree from the empress, imperial concubine and emperor said:
Tell the ministers of the Cabinet, the Five Mansions and the Six Ministries: One day, Emperor Daxing, Bin Tianxian, summoned the three ministers of the cabinet to sit in front of the imperial couch, together with my mother and son, to receive the will in person.The academicians seized the power and took over the government, seized the prestige and self-discipline, and the emperor was not allowed to take charge. My mother and son were terrified day and night.Then he ordered him to return to his hometown to live idle, and he was not allowed to stay.You and other ministers have received the kindness of the country, how can you be a subordinate minister and despise the young master!From now on, it is advisable to cleanse the loyalty report, and to follow the same pattern as the past, and punish it with punishment. (The original text of Volume 61 of "The Chronicle of Ming History")
Gao Gong really failed.Gao Gong's backing is the outer court, Feng Bao's backing is the deep palace; Gao Gong can only be the chief eloquent officer, directly attacking Feng Bao's crimes, Feng Bao can then persuade the concubine to doubt Gao Gong's loyalty.Gao Gong's failure this time taught Juzheng a profound lesson. From now on, Juzheng will spend a lot of time in flattering the harem and contacting the internal eunuch besides presiding over the state affairs.
When the ministers of the Ming Dynasty were dismissed and returned home, there was a story of giving to the post; the so-called giving to the post was to send chariots, horses and men in the post, and the state provided them.This was originally a franchise, but it slowly became the norm.But this time Gao Gong resigned, he was restricted to return home immediately, and he was not allowed to stay. The horse-drawn carriage at the post station could not be discussed, so he had to hire a carriage by himself. "History of Ming Dynasty. Gao Gong Biography"), the military service of escort was still chasing all the way, which became the news at that time.On June 19th, after Juzheng entered the audience, he asked for Gao Gong's favor again. Fortunately, he succeeded, and Gao Gong was spared unnecessary difficulties on the road.In July, Ju Zhengyou wrote to Wang Chonggu, saying:
When the Lord has doubts about a small country and difficult meetings, it is advisable to accumulate sincerity internally, coordinate the palace, delay foreign affairs, and collect material conditions, which can help the crisis and stabilize the situation.But the elders have everything easy to do, and they are more slanderous than slanderers, and they abandon their friendship, and the advice they speak, not only refuses to accept, but also leads to suspicion and anger.At that time, human emotions were raging, disasters were unpredictable, servants still risked their lives to sue for them, and asked for posts for them, only to be relieved, but the morale of the country was greatly damaged.Alas, since ancient times, slandering people and disrupting the country is more than painful!Fortunately, the new emperor is exceptionally intelligent. Even though he is young, he has already achieved a lot, and he is just stupid and loyal. Fortunately, he has learned from him.Now the palace is one, with one mind, internal and external affairs are fortunately settled, but side affairs are always on the mind, day and night, although the heart is safe, how can the limbs be safe?Wanwang pay attention to comfort Xiaoji.Such insults to the teaching, sincerity, high insight and profound knowledge, stone paintings, Hongmo, the public loves me so much, how easy is it to hear this?Sigh repeatedly and admire the good proverbs. (Letter 4 "Answer to Wang Jianchuan")
The so-called risking one's life to sue must be pointed out.According to Wang Shizhen's "Shoufu Biography", in front of the queen, Feng Bao once mentioned the rumor that Gao Gong plotted to abolish the prince and welcome the king of Zhou; he also said that Feng Bao had bribed other internal eunuchs to create the same atmosphere, so the queen was furious, Things are getting out of hand.This story is not recorded in "Ming History Chronicles" and "Ming History", but it is proved that the emperor was not allowed to be in charge on June 16, and He Juzheng's relationship was fierce. not simple.After Gao Gong's death in the sixth year of Wanli, his wife Zhang asked for a tribute. Shenzong sent the memorial to the cabinet and sent the clerk Tian Yi to pass the imperial decree: Gao Gong was unfaithful and bullied me. Now that he is dead, his wife came to beg for grace. allow him.This!Juzheng went up again, and Shenzong began to allow him to return to his original post and give sacrifices, but he also said: Gao Gong was entrusted by the late emperor, and he despised me for a long time.At this time Shenzong was already sixteen years old, and his hatred for Gao Gong was really deep.If Feng Bao hadn't created the rumor of abolishing Li, Shenzong would not have given such an indelible impression.
Juzheng must have heard about the coup on June 16 beforehand.He knew Gao Gong's style.Although Feng Bao is just an unfamiliar inner eunuch, Ju Zheng is not unaware of the insidious and ruthless methods of the inner eunuchs.He was sure a storm was coming, so he just excused himself from work.When the storm passed and Juzheng came to court on the 19th, Gao Gong had left Beijing for a long time, and his seniority in the cabinet was no higher than that of Juzheng, so he was promoted step by step and became the chief assistant. Due to his death on the 23rd, Ju Zheng became the only Minister of Gu Ming, and his political position became more consolidated.As a result of this coup, Ju is the biggest gainer.It is not that he is ignorant of the plans of the two parties; he is not ignorant of Feng Bao's slander; Gao Gong certainly did not conspire to support the King of Zhou, and from the perspective of the relationship between the clan and the branch, the King of Zhou did not enter the Datong possible.From the point of view of the government system, part of the powers of the ceremonial supervisor should be handed over to the cabinet. The integration of the palace and the government was originally the slogan of Juzheng.From the standpoint of friendship, Juzheng should help Gao Gong even more. Aren't they colleagues for more than ten years?However, their friendship has become rusty!Gao Gong cannot but be blamed for this, but how can he let Ju Zheng go?He just sits and watches the success or failure, hoping that Gao Gong will fail in order to complete his goal of controlling the political power.He told Wang Chonggu: risking your life to sue is an excuse, why ask for leave to avoid it?It is too extravagant to hope to win the sympathy of outsiders instead of going to the extreme gate camp and relying on empty words after the fact!Then again, after Xu Jie's failure, Ju Zheng once blamed himself for thinking that he was a middle-class man, and he couldn't break his heart to show the sincerity of the teacher.For the teachers who have been greatly favored, there is no talk of heart-to-heart complaints; so for the colleagues who are unfamiliar with the Central Economics, let's start from there!Politicians are not sages, but just politicians; who is willing to sacrifice their own political power for others.
In this coup, Gao Gong's regime was overthrown, and Juzheng's regime was established. It was just a change in personnel, not a change in policy.Gao Gong was a capable politician. Since he was also Minister of the Ministry of Officials, he went to the cabinet in the morning and the Ministry of Officials in the afternoon.Juzheng is not a minister, but he has no insight into the affairs of the cabinet and the six departments. His shrewdness is equal to Gao Gong's strength.Gao Gong was unavoidably high-spirited towards his colleagues, but Juzheng was a little humble; as usual, Gao Gong couldn't tolerate political opponents, and he would take revenge if he had revenge, but Juzheng knew how to tolerate him a little, and even hired him according to his talents.But this distinction is only a rough idea.When he first came to power, Juzheng still had the meaning of attracting talents, but then he became more and more vocal, and after the sixth year of Wanli, he was almost the same as Gao Gong.In this regard, the difference between them is only the difference in age. After Juzheng passed fifty, his behavior was no different from that of Gao Gong.In dealing with the court and inner eunuchs, Ju Zheng is much better than Gao Gong. He knows how to be perfunctory and accommodating, and he knows how to follow the curve. However, he always recognizes political goals, and the court and inner eunuchs have no room for interfering with actual politics.Gao Gong's goal of improving the cabinet power was accomplished in the hands of Juzheng, but Juzheng did not encounter the setbacks Gao Gong encountered.But this is the lesson Juzheng learned after Gao Gong failed: If Gao Gong had a third chance to join the cabinet, with his ability, it would not be impossible.To put it simply, Gao Gong and Ju Zheng are just characters in the same category, and there are inevitably some differences due to different environments.Those who do not understand actual politics may be surprised because they cannot cooperate. In fact, the entire political power cannot be allowed to be controlled by two politicians, just like the entire family cannot be allowed to be jointly controlled by two housewives.
June 16 passed, and on the 19th Shenzong summoned Juzheng.At this time, it was Chen Ke, a little later than the usual morning court.Shenzong ordered Juzheng to kneel in front of the throne, and he said:
Mr. is in the mausoleum of his father. He has worked hard and suffered from the heat. The state affairs are serious, so he is only in the cabinet for adjustment, and there is no need to give leave.
Juzheng kowtowed and admitted that he was recuperating in the pavilion. Shenzong said again:
Everything needs the help of Mr.
After Shenzong mentioned Mu Zong's remarks about Juzheng, calling him a loyal minister, Juzheng was so grateful that he couldn't look up, so he fell down and said:
The minister received the great kindness of the first emperor, personally inherited Gu's life, and dared to be loyal without exhaustion, and repaid it with pictures.The important tasks of the country today are to abide by the old system of the ancestors, and there is no need to change them one after another.As for those who give lectures to be close to the virtuous, love the people, and take the lead in the way of the monarch, I hope the sages will pay attention.
That's what Mr. said.Shenzong said.
Today is hot and hot, I hope that the emperor is in the palace, living carefully, eating and drinking, so as to maintain the holy bow and prosper all blessings.Ju Zheng said.
knew.Shenzong also said that he would have dinner and wine with his husband. (Zou 2 "Xie Zhao Jian Shu", the dialogue uses the original text.)
After Juzheng was summoned, there was "Xie Zhao Jianshu", which was historically known as: The minister is a mere district, but he should be firm in his actions, exhaust his efforts, and abide by the constitution for the ancestors, and dare not change his opinions; for the country, he loves and nurtures talents , Dare not use it for selfish purposes: this minister is loyal to the emperor's duty.Still looking forward to the emperor, thinking about the difficulties of the ancestors, thinking about the importance of the emperor's legacy, continuing to benefit from teaching and diligent administration, being close to the virtuous and far away from traitors, so that the palace and the government are integrated, and the top and bottom are united, so as to achieve the long-lasting rule of Yongxi. The world is very fortunate.
This summoning was the first since Juzheng became the chief assistant.He announced major policies and only said that he would abide by the constitution.This is where Juzheng differs from Wang Anshi.During Song Shenzong, An Shi was full of ideals, he wanted to reform and create; but during Ming Shenzong, Juzheng was only full of minded constitutions, he only wanted to follow the name and verify.An Shi is an ideal politician, but Ju is a realistic politician.The old system of the ancestors that Juzheng refers to is the old system of Taizu. A year ago, when he was the examiner of the examination, he once said:
Emperor Fugao started with the law, changed the laws and regulations three times, and then established them. The official system was established in his later years. At one time, the famous minister Yingzuo, with each other, made calculations.Its interests will be judged!Although there is ingenuity in the latter, nothing can surpass it!Moreover, the sages of the Emperor Gao still follow the actions of the mediocre people, but if the mediocre people of today want to change what the sages built, wouldn't it be contrary?If the chariot does not move forward, the horse does not have strength. What good is it to drive the chariot without riding the horse?If the law doesn't work, people don't have the strength to do it. What's the point of discussing the law without discussing people?If the lower flow is blocked, it will overflow, and if the upper source is choked, the lower will dry up: to eliminate its obstruction, and to relieve its suffocation, the law will work.Today, those who are blocked by the law have four diseases:
Please praise the words without hiding anything, is it possible?The rule of the world begins with strictness, and often dies with relaxation; while human emotions begin with enthusiasm, and often die with slack.Now it is already slack, the way of doing Gu is like plugging a leaky boat, but now it is leaking, I think it will not disturb the ears.With one order, he said: "Why is it bothersome?"When something happens, he said: "Why worry about it?"Isn't it difficult to seek reason for the old man who has nothing to do, but admires the grandeur of his husband sitting and singing and painting promises?This disease is one of the habitual ones.
The trend of the world is always heavy at the top and light at the bottom, so luck is easy.The action of today's law often lies in the weak and the weak, and the hindrance of the power often lies in the strength of the crowd.The subordinates coerce their crowds to overwhelm the superiors, the superiors are afraid of seeing the discussion and fear the inferiors, the trend of mausoleum replacement is gradually formed, and the momentum of the fingers is difficult to control.The disease is also in Ji Gang.
Husbands often point their fingers and listen indiscriminately, and talk too much in order to listen.Today, perhaps nothing has been established, but the courts are full of discussants, and no benefit has been developed, and the discussants follow: it is a technique where there are many people who do things but care about them, and those who are good at eunuchs work to avoid them.The disease is discussed in three also.
The husband has repeatedly tried to pass the test, so he promotes things, so he adopts its name and must check the truth. From the beginning, he must test the end, so people have no secrets and things can be done.The establishment of the current system, if it is said to be an order, has not respected the dynasty, but suddenly heard of it and stopped.If a command is given, if it is said that it is within the sea, but within Jifu, it will not work.Benefits and harms should not be investigated, but rewards and punishments must not be followed.There are four types of this disease in name and reality.
The disadvantages of the four are familiar to people's eyes and ears, and enter people's hearts and minds. It does not take a day.If we don't get rid of the disadvantages of the four in order to solve their obstructions and ease their suffocation, but want to practice the law, even though the day changes and the moon changes order, what's the benefit? (Collected Works 3 "Xin Wei's Examination of Cheng Ce" 2)
The above is about the system.In terms of talents, Ju Zheng said that he loves and supports talents for the country, and dare not use them for his own purposes.This shows Juzheng's shrewdness.When Gao Gong was in power, all dissidents were rejected. This was Gao Gong's selfishness. Later, Gao Gong got the notoriety of taking power and arbitrarily governing, and it was not because of this.Juzheng learns from this aspect and never repeats the same mistakes. This is one.Secondly, Gao Gong was a capable official minister, and all the people he promoted were talents at that time.In the winter of the third year of Longqing, when the cabinet decided to attack the rebels in Gutian, Guangxi, Gao Gong appointed Yin Zhengmao as the governor of Guangxi.Zhengmao has talent, but corruption is inevitable.Gao Gong said: Give him one million, and Zhengmao may swallow half of it, but only Zhengmao will do things well.Later, Zhengmao really pacified Gutian.In the fifth year of Longqing, Li Qiu, governor of Liaodong, resigned, and Gao Gong advocated the appointment of Zhang Xueyan.Others didn't think so, Gao Gong said: "Zhang Xueyan's talent, everyone doesn't know it, but when you encounter twisted roots, you will naturally recognize the sharp weapon."While talking, Wei Xuezeng, the official minister, came, and Gao Gong asked him to be the governor of Liaodong.After thinking about it for a long time, Xuezeng replied: Zhang Xueyan can go.Gao Gong received this confirmation, and immediately proposed to learn Yan, and later he also had excellent results in Liaodong.If you don't use the talents that Gao Gong appreciates, then you will be confused, this is not what Juzheng did.Juzheng once said:
Although a lonely person is unworthy, you can get a glimpse of his virtuousness in others. Inside, he dare not let the selfishness of love and hate, and outside, he does not believe in reputation.Since the incident, learning from the mistakes of the predecessors, Chen Huangji's theory was first used to enlighten the mind and eliminate partial party. (Letter 11 "Answer to Nan Lieqing and Chen Wodu")
The one who is most interested is Zhang Jiayin.Jiayin was a well-known talented scholar and capable minister at that time.But his relationship with Gao Gong is too deep, and because of the difficult affairs during Yingtian's tenure, he was quite negative, and Juzheng wrote to him twice in succession:
When my father was in Lang's office, the servant knew him and recommended him every year, which was really contemptuous.Those who don't know, it is a mistake to say that the servant was promoted by the predecessor.The sages of the world should be used by the world, why should they come from themselves?And the servant of the former minister (the former minister refers to Gao Gong) is thick and generous, and he is not worthy of the whole family, so why should he be disliked for the mere use of the house?The Cai people are our people, but the former Zai is not a Cai person, and the public is also ours?What is there to suspect?I would like to work hard to honor my name and look forward to it. (Letter 5, "Answer to General Constitution, Zhang Laiyan, Public House")
Only the gentleman has a lot of talent and is rich in the spring and Autumn period. He does not take the flag at this time and draw the bell and tripod.This belongs to the meeting of Xiuming, Fang will lose his tricks in the axis, and would rather let the luan and the crane live in Yunlin?Dashu has been restored to the Ministry, but Yazhi will not succeed.I would like to encourage you to submit a brief book to serve the state affairs. (The same volume "Answer to the General Constitution Zhang Lai")
But Juzheng absolutely cannot tolerate Gao Gong's minions.He and Wang Daokun said: The second and third sons used their words to disrupt the government, but it was in fact the imperial court's guidelines. The so-called Zhilan was in the way, and those who had to hoe, knew that I was guilty, and it was because of this! (Same volume "Answer to Wang Sima Nanming")
Gao Gong is gone, of course the political center has to be re-arranged.It is impossible to ask for a minister of the Ministry of Officials who is as capable as Gao Gong, but at that time there was a minister with the most high expectations, which was Yang Bo, who was in charge of the Minister of the Ministry of War.Since the thirty-fourth year of Jiajing, Yang Bo has served as Minister of the Ministry of War three times. In the forty-fifth year of Jiajing, he was transferred to be the Minister of the Ministry of Officials. In the fifth year of Longqing, he was appointed as the Minister of the Ministry of Officials.Therefore, it is proposed that Yang Bo still return to the Ministry of Officials.Juzheng said:
Now that he is on the throne, the first ordered the Duke to return to Bing Quanheng, and I was entrusted by the late emperor. Fang wants to work together with the Duke to help Xiu Ming. （文集五《襄毅楊公墓誌銘》）
居正又說到楊博歷佐三朝，以及自己和楊博始終相與的關係：
桓桓世廟，經武緯文，公媚天子，耆定策勳。穆穆莊皇（穆宗），垂衣拱手，公佐太平，聲色不有。迨於今皇，兩作繼明，詢茲黃髮，還公宰衡。我求一德，惟公是與，不吊昊天，奪我心侶。有謀孰諮，有難孰夷，山頹木壞，滄矣其悲。（同上）
楊搏調回吏部，遺下兵部尚書，照高拱定下的原則，應由總督繼任。當時的口號是國防第一，北邊第一。北邊三位總督：前任薊遼總督譚綸，現任宣大總督王崇古，和前任三邊總督王之誥，都有重望。楊博和居正商定，起譚綸為兵部尚書。居正給崇古去信說：
昨本兵虛席，公論咸歸公與西石（王之浩），乃太宰（楊博）謂渠復銓之始，嫌於首用其親，且貢市方殷，猶借重望以鎮之，計非久當別有簡命也。（書牘四《答王鑒川》）
正在佈置的當中，高儀死了。內閣只剩居正一人。問題又到了面前，應當補怎樣一個人呢？在不知明朝政體的人，也許以為既是楊博的資望最好，當然應補楊博。但是事實不是如此的。明朝的中樞，是二元制：吏部尚書的地位，本來在內閣大學士以上，即使到了內閣權重以後，吏部尚書，終於不曾落到內閣以下。當時的故事，吏部尚書在路上遇到大學士，照例不避道，便是顯然的證據（見《明史》卷二二四《孫鑨傳》）。
孝宗弘治年間，吏部尚書王恕的聲望，始終不受內閣的壓制，更是實例。還有，由吏部尚書入閣的，不是沒有，但是這是特旨。在推舉的時候，通常是禮部尚書、吏部侍郎，或是翰林學士。因此，神宗吩咐居正推舉閣員的時候，居正不能推舉吏部尚書楊博（推舉吏部尚書入閣非故事，見《明史》卷二二四《陳有年傳》），只能推舉禮部尚書呂調陽。其實居正的經驗多了，他知道內閣裡除了自己，只需要一位忠厚老實，和衷共濟的長者，並不需要一位雄才大略、器度恢宏的重臣。這是居正的私心，但是這是隆慶年間內閣混鬥的經驗。為國求賢，固然是對的，但是為內閣謀安定，也何嘗不是為國家？居正對於調陽，在辛丑會試主考的時候，已經認識了，現在正準備和他長期合作。萬曆七年調陽死後，居正說過：
余與公同政府，知公深。公為人，外溫而心辨，中毅而貌和，於事呐呐不輕為可否，於人恂恂不苟為異同；嘗曰：大臣協心體國，苟利社稷，嫌怨共之，安事羯羠其間？無論彼己懻忮，即賢者各是所見，政本之地，齗齗而爭，如國體何？世儒嘐嘐，猥小曹參而卑丙吉，然則，虞廷雲寅恭者非邪？自余柄政，與公共事者六年，內奉沖聖，勤緝熙，外贊密勿，定計劃，莫逆於心，莫違於口，六年如一日也。（文集五《豫所呂公墓誌銘》）
呂調陽入閣，遞遺禮部尚書，居正便起用陸樹聲。樹聲嘉靖二十年會試第一，嘉靖中，屢掌南京翰林院，南京國子祭酒，後來召為吏部右侍郎，稱病不拜。隆慶中，再起故官，仍不就。這是一位聲望隆重的大臣，現在居然來了，居正用後輩進見先輩之禮待遇他。
七月間戶部尚書張守直、刑部尚書馬自強致仕。守直在封貢的一件事，意見和居正不一致，自強也有些不滿意，他們去了，居正便補進王國光、王之誥。王國光原來以戶部尚書，總督倉場，現在調回管部，後來在任內完成《萬曆會計錄》，是一部有關國計的著作。王之誥是居正的親家，（居正第四子簡修娶之誥女）但是之誥隆慶三年總督陝西三邊軍務，進南京兵部尚書，資望久已夠了，而且卓然自守，並不附和居正，因此更得一般的推重。
諸人以外，工部尚書朱衡、左都御史葛守禮留任；朱衡在河工方面的成績，和守禮的操守，都是當時物望所歸。明朝的內閣，當然不是現代的內閣，對於閣中同僚和六部首長以及都察院的人選，首輔沒有進退的大權，但是居正對於人選的佈置，確曾費了一番苦心，而且也確曾達到自己的主張。後來他曾經自負地說：
《書》曰：無侮老成人，皤皤良士，膂力既愆，我尚多有之。宓子賤治單父，孔子使人覘之，見與老者二十餘人議政，孔子喜曰：吾知不齊能辦單父矣。今以幼主當陽，而朝多長者，豈非盛事乎？（書牘六《與南台長言中貴不幹外政》）
大政方針既經發表，中樞人選也分別確定，居正準備負起國家的重任。從隆慶六年六月起，到神宗萬曆十年六月為止，這整整的十年當中，他逐漸完成他的政治理想。在他掌握政權的期間，除了當前的政治問題以外，他還得應付三個重要的人物：第一，皇貴妃後來的慈聖皇太后；第二，馮保；第三，神宗。這三個都是他的主人，三個人各有自己的立場，因此在應付方面，不時地發生困難，幸虧居正有他的政治天才，總算安穩度過了，但是畢竟因為沒有應付完全得當，在他身後，發生意外的波折。
皇貴妃是一個有辦法的人。居正還記得穆宗病重，馮保宣讀遺囑的時候，皇妃在帷中的口諭：
江山社稷要緊，先生每要盡忠為國。（參奏疏六《謝皇太后慈諭疏》）
這是一個有決斷的呼聲。神宗即位以後，不久召居正至平臺面諭：
皇后是朕嫡母，皇貴妃是朕生母，尊號上先生可多加幾字。
問題立刻提出了，皇后當然尊為皇太后，但是皇貴妃也要稱皇太后！這個還不要緊，以往還可以對一位皇太后加上尊號，以示分別，但是現在辦不到了。居正疏稱：
仰稽我祖宗舊典，惟天順八年憲宗皇帝尊嫡母為慈懿皇太后，生母皇貴妃為皇太后，則與今日事體，正為相同，但於嫡母特加二宇，而於生母止稱皇太后，則尊尊親親之別也。然今恩德之隆，既為無間，則尊崇之禮，豈宜有殊？且臣居正恭奉面諭，欲兼隆重其禮，各官仰體孝思，亦皆樂為將順。今擬兩宮尊號，於皇太后之上，各加二字，並示尊崇，庶於祖制無愆，而於聖心亦慰。（見奏疏二《看詳禮部議兩宮尊號疏》）
就這樣決定了，皇后陳氏尊稱仁聖皇太后，皇貴妃李氏尊稱慈聖皇太后，一切透露居正遷就事實的心理。居正是一個幹練的政治人才，但是他在政治方面所受的訓練，還是世宗嘉靖年間的訓練，對於皇室，永遠是那樣誠惶誠恐，有時竟不免有些阿諛附和。萬曆元年翰林院產生白燕，居正把它和內閣所開並蒂蓮花一並進獻。神宗隨即下一道手渝：
白燕、蓮花俱進獻聖母，甚是喜悅，卻獨產翰林院中，先開於密勿之地，上天正假此以見先生為社稷祥瑞，花中君子。朕賴先生啟沃，固不敢顛縱，何德之有！（見奏疏三《謝宸翰疏》）
《明史（卷二三五）余懋學傳》稱居正進《白燕、白蓮頌》。《白蓮頌》不可考，《白燕頌》大致即是《白燕曲》：
白燕飛，兩兩玉交輝，生商傳帝命，送喜傍慈闈。有時紅藥階前過，帶得清香拂繡幃。（詩四《白燕曲》四首之一）
這是一篇貢諛慈聖太后的詩句。詩集中如《恭頌母德詩》：
猗歟我聖母，世德宜重光，扶天致升平，毓聖纂靈昌，履盛彌勤烙，秉禮日矜莊。內廷政無嘩，外家恩有常，明達信如此，馬鄧豈足望？（詩一）
如《皇上祝聖母詩》：
女中頌德稱堯舜，膝下承歡有帝王。（詩四）
文集中如《神母授圖萬年永賴頌》、（文集二）《聖母圖贊》，（文集二）都是同樣的作品。居正受的訓練太久了，他自己無法擺脫這個形態，然而也正憑這種訓練，博得慈聖太后的好感。
馮保是司禮掌印太監，在內廷他只是一個奴才，但是正因為掌握章奏的大權，他也成為居正的主人。馮保的大權，全靠慈聖太后，所以居正更不能不結好太后，借此減輕馮保的壓迫。李太后要做功德，建涿州二橋，馮保主持，居正便有一篇《敕建涿州二橋碑文》，李太后建承恩寺、海會寺、東嶽廟、慈壽寺、萬壽寺，又是馮保主持，居正又是每一處來一篇碑文。（皆見文集四）他甚至說：
臣以是益信佛氏之教，有以陰翊皇度，而我聖母慈光所燭，無遠弗被，其功德廣大，雖盡恒河沙數，不足以喻其萬分也。（文集四《建五臺山大寶塔寺記》）
居正不是不曉得這是胡誑，但是他只有胡誑。隆慶初年，江西龍虎山張真人的道號革去了；萬曆五年張國祥入京，透過馮保，走通李太后的路線，復封張真人，居正無可如何，只說：
張真人事，委為過舉，初時發自慈闈，不穀未敢驟諫。（書牘十二《答南科吳公琯》）
居正對李太后是將順，對馮保是敷衍。正因為在太后方面，居正也得到信任，所以在居正當國的十年之中，內閣和司禮監沒有任何的衝突。馮保不是一個安分守己的人，他在北郊郊祭的時候，甚至傳呼直入，北面拈香。（《明史》卷二一〇《鄒應龍傳》）在當時委實有些駭人聽聞，但是居正不管，他只要馮保不干政，就滿足了；他曾說：
主上雖在沖年，天挺睿哲，宮府之事，無大無小，咸虛己而屬之於僕，中貴人無敢以一毫干預，此公在北時所親見也。僕雖不肖，而入養君德，出理庶務，咸獨秉虛公以運之，中貴人無敢有一毫阻撓，此亦公在北時所親見也。（書牘六《與南台長言中貴不幹外政》）
在大體上把握住了，居正在其他方面都可以遷就。馮保引用錦衣指揮同知徐爵入宮，代閱章奏，擬詔旨；居正吩咐僕人游七和徐爵結為兄弟，以資聯絡。徐爵、遊七，後來都成為炙手可熱的人物。馮保要在故鄉深州建坊，居正甚至吩咐保定巡撫孫丕揚代建。馮保自建生壙，居正便有一篇《馮公壽藏記》，稱為仁智忠遠。在記中他又說：
語曰：人貌榮名，豈有既乎？今以公建立，視古巷伯之倫何讓焉？誠由此永肩一心，始終弗替，雖與霄壤俱存可也，又奚俟於壽藏而後永乎？（文集九《司禮監太監馮公壽藏記》）
這裡在推許以外，便有一層期望。他期望馮保繼續努力，永保令名。居正身後，他的兒子懋修收集居正遺著的時候說起：
懋修謹案先父之與馮司禮處也，亦宮府相關，不得不然，謝世之後，言者用為罪端。今觀其於豫藏文，惓惓勉以令名，固非阿私賄結者。可見先父當主少之時，於左右侍近，其調處之術，可謂深矣。不然，以先父之嚴毅，使左右不服其調處，亦將奈之何哉！苦心國事者，自當有推諒其衷者矣。
居正當國的時候，他要應付三個重要的人物，李太后、馮保、神宗。從表面看，當然是十歲的神宗，最容易應付了，但是事實上這是最大的困難。居正身後發生種種的波折，完全因為這一方面的失敗。
神宗這時只有十歲，無論高拱當時在內閣裡怎樣說的，十歲太子畢竟只是十歲孩子。但是神宗年齡雖小，已經開始明瞭政治；他知道他是主人，然而他也知道在他沒有支配實際政治的時候，他還得受人支配，甚至對於他的支配者，還得博取應有的好感。在當國的十年之中，居正是首輔，是獨裁者，是皇帝的師傅，實際上他是神宗的支配者；神宗當然時時感到博取居正好感的必要，但是同時他也知道他是居正的主人。他對於自己的地位，正感到一種不平，他甚至要希圖報復；所以他對於居正的好感，因為自卑心理的缺陷，日後突變為對於居正的惡感。居正是一個精明不過的人，但是正因為神宗年紀太小，一切都被瞞過了。假如歷史的重演可信，我們不妨說居正和明神宗的關係，很有一些與霍光和漢宣帝的關係類似，但是正因為重演不會是完全的重演，所以還有許許多多的不同。
穆宗和他的父親世宗全不一樣，但是神宗和他的祖父便有許多類似的地方。這是所謂隔代遺傳。世宗十六歲即位，享國四十五年，神宗十歲即位，享國四十八年；世宗是一個全權的統治者，神宗親政以後，也是如此；世宗自嘉靖二十年以後，不親朝政，神宗中年以後，也是怠於國政。在這些方面，神宗正和他的祖父一樣，然而他也是李太后的兒子。他從母親那裡所得的是謹慎小心，是膽怯，是恭順，但是在政權到手的時候，他便知道怎樣運用。他一步不肯退讓，甚至因為滿足自己的欲望，他可以打破慣例，給對方以不必要的難堪。母親不是曾領導自己，在清晨的雨道上，走到嫡母皇后那裡去請安嗎？但是現在母親和嫡母還不是同樣的皇太后？這小小的心靈，正在遺傳的本能以外，又加上一些習得的經驗。
李太后對於神宗，正是一個最能幹，最負責任的母親。穆宗逝世以後，皇上所住的乾清宮，照理只能由皇帝住了。仁聖太后本來是住在別宮的，現在退居慈慶宮；但是慈聖太后因為神宗年幼的關係，仍舊陪著兒子住在乾清宮，直到神宗大婚為止。平時她督責兒子讀書，在書沒有讀熟的時候，便罰在地下長跪。皇帝跪在地下，還像什麼皇帝，但是這是太后的懿旨，所以他還是跪下了。在講官們講書以後，神宗回到宮中，李太后又得下令復講，當然還得復講。三、六、九這幾天，是早朝的日期，天亮還遠得很呢，一聽到五更柝、柝的聲音，李太后自己來了，把十歲的孩子，從睡夢朦朧中喊起，宮娥給洗過臉以後，便得趕緊坐上肩輿上朝。做皇帝真不是一份好差使，但是神宗也明白，誰敢違背母親的意旨呢？
居正在神宗即位以後，隨即請御日講，他和呂調陽疏稱：
臣等謬以菲陋，職叨輔弼，伏思培養君德，開導聖學，乃當今第一要務。臣居正又親受先帝顧託，追惟憑幾之言，亦惓惓以講學親賢為囑，用敢冒昧上請。今一應大典禮，俱已次第修舉，時值秋涼，簡編可親。（奏疏二《乞崇聖學以隆聖治疏》）
明代皇帝的教育，一種是經筵，一種是日講。經筵是最隆重的，每月逢二的日期舉行。照例盛暑和嚴寒的時候都停止經筵，用現代術語，就是放寒假、暑假。舉行經筵的時候，勳臣、大學士、六部尚書、都御史、翰林學士等都要到齊，由翰林院春坊等官及國子監祭酒進講經史。一切的典禮很隆重，不過皇帝不御經筵，自動放假的事，不是沒有。但是神宗的最初十年，談不到自動放假。由萬曆元年規定以後，每年春講以二月十二日起，至五月初二日止；秋講以八月十二日起，至十月初二日止，不必題請。簡單說，就是上學期九講，下學期九講，都有固定的日期。
神宗的經筵，雖自萬曆元年二月起，但是隆慶六年八月間，日講就開始了。日講在文華殿舉行，不用侍衛、侍儀、執事等官，只用講讀官、內閣學士待班。開始日講的功課，居正給神宗規定如次：
一、伏睹皇上在東宮講讀，《大學》至傳之五章，《尚書》至《堯典》之終篇。今各於每日接續講讀，先讀《大學》十遍，次讀《尚書》十遍，講官各隨即進講畢，各退。
一、講讀畢，皇上進暖閣少憇，司禮監將備衙門章奏，進上御覽，臣等退在西廂房伺候。皇上若有所諮問，乞即召臣等至御前，將本中事情，一一明白敷奏，庶皇上睿明日開，國家政務，久之自然練熟。
一、覽本後，臣等率領正字官恭侍皇上，進字畢。若皇上不欲再進，暖閣少憇，臣等仍退至西廂房伺候。若皇上不進暖閣，臣等即率講官再進午講。（按正字官掌繕寫、裝潢、詮其訛謬而調其音切，見萬曆本《明會典》卷五十二）
一、近午初時，進講《通鑒節要》，講官務將前代興亡事實，直解明白，講畢各退，皇上還宮。
一、每日各官講讀畢，或聖心於書義有疑，乞即下問，臣等再用俗說講解，務求明白。
一、每月三、六、九，視朝之日，暫免講讀。仍望皇上於宮中有暇，將講讀過經書，從容溫習。或看字體法帖，隨意寫字一幅，不拘多少，工夫不致間斷。
一、每日定以日出時，請皇上早膳畢，出御講讀；午膳畢，還宮。
一、查得先朝事例，非遇大寒大暑，不輟講讀。本日若遇風雨，傳旨暫免。（奏疏二《擬日講儀注疏》）
這是神宗的課程表。後來《通鑒節要》講完，續講《貞觀政要》。
神宗這時還不足十歲，但是居然擔負這樣繁重的課程。他對於