bookrebus Chapter 291 Consort Fucha
Chapter 291 Consort Fucha
Fucha Honghan's discovery of the smallpox vaccination method was a great achievement.
With Guo Luomafa's identity as a high-ranking official, Hongchang would naturally not mistreat Fucha Honghan, such a meritorious contributor.
Hongchang directly conferred upon Fucha Honghan the title of First-Class Duke of Cheng'en, and his family name remained unchanged for three generations.
He was then rewarded with ten thousand taels of gold.
When Hongchang issued his decree, many ministers felt that Hongchang had bestowed too much honor upon Fucha Honghan.
The ministers were whispering amongst themselves.
They felt that Fucha Honghan was merely lucky to have discovered the smallpox vaccination method and did not deserve such a high title.
One of the senior officials even stepped forward to offer advice to Hongchang:
"Your Majesty, although Fucha Honghan has made contributions..."
However, the title of First-Class Duke of Cheng'en is too prestigious, and it is extremely rare for three generations of his family to retain the title without being demoted.
We urge Your Majesty to rescind your decree and reconsider the rewards.
Other ministers echoed this sentiment, expressing their agreement with the old minister's viewpoint.
Upon hearing this, Hongchang's previously relaxed brows furrowed slightly, and a hint of displeasure welled up within him.
But he suppressed his displeasure and patiently explained:
"Vaccination with cowpox was an effective way to prevent smallpox."
Lord Fucha devoted a great deal of effort to this, undergoing countless experiments and explorations.
This method was finally discovered and popularized, a contribution that will benefit generations to come!
Moreover, Lord Fucha was originally my son, and according to precedent, he was qualified to be granted the title of Duke Cheng'en.
Now, it is only natural and rightful for me to bestow upon him the title of First-Class Duke of Grace.
My esteemed ministers need not say any more.
However, despite Hongchang's explanation, the ministers in the court did not give up.
They still felt that such an award was somewhat inappropriate, so...
The imperial court was abuzz with discussion and debate.
Amidst this heated debate, Nian Gengyao suddenly stood up and said:
"Your Majesty is wise!"
The significance of this smallpox vaccination method was truly extraordinary; once smallpox broke out...
It has claimed the lives of countless innocent people, bringing endless disasters and suffering to our Great Qing Dynasty.
Now that we have this method to prevent smallpox, it is truly a blessing for all people!
Lord Fucha's ability to delve into the subject and ultimately discover this method was by no means solely due to luck.
His outstanding contributions to our Great Qing Dynasty are worthy of the title of First-Class Duke of Cheng'en.
"I believe that Lord Fucha is absolutely worthy of the title!"
Nian Gengyao's voice was loud and firm.
Nian Gengyao secretly thought that these opposing ministers were really not smart.
Don't they know who Fucha Honghan is? This young emperor clearly values the Fucha family, his maternal family, highly.
We should take this opportunity to promote Enfucha's family, not to mention that the smallpox vaccination was a genuine achievement.
Even without merit, the young emperor could bestow rewards as he pleased.
Instead of eagerly trying to please them, they oppose us at this time.
Most emperors are petty and narrow-minded, and aren't they afraid of being retaliated against by a younger emperor?
Even if the young emperor is generous, Empress Fucha may still hold a grudge.
These people just thought the young emperor was young and easy to fool.
What a bunch of idiots!
The ministers who had been gossiping quieted down considerably after hearing Nian Gengyao's words.
Nian Gengyao held considerable power and prestige in the court. His words caused many people to re-examine the matter.
Upon hearing Nian Gengyao's words, Hongchang's brows gradually relaxed, and a look of relief appeared on his face.
He looked at Nian Gengyao and nodded slightly in approval.
Then, Hongchang swept his gaze across the court and said solemnly:
"General Nian is absolutely right. This matter is settled. There is no need for further discussion."
Seeing this, the ministers had no choice but to shut up, and the debate in the court finally subsided.
After bestowing honors upon the meritorious official Fucha Honghan, the next step was to honor Princesses Shuhe and Wenyi.
These princesses played a significant role in the promotion of smallpox vaccination.
They deserve recognition for their outstanding performance.
Therefore, he issued the decree without hesitation.
First, Princess Shuhe was promoted to the rank of Princess Heshuo Shuhe.
Following this, Princess Wenyi was also promoted to the rank of Princess Heshuo Wenyi.
The other princesses who participated in the vaccination were also awarded prizes in recognition of their contributions and efforts.
Finally, Hongchang also specially ordered the Imperial Household Department to carefully prepare and build residences for the princesses.
Upon receiving this imperial decree, the Minister of Revenue was the first to step forward, looking troubled, and said:
"Your Majesty, building princess residences for so many princesses will be extremely expensive. Although the national treasury currently has a surplus..."
However, there are still many areas where funds are needed, and we hope Your Majesty will reconsider.
After listening, Hongchang frowned slightly, pondered for a moment, and said:
"The princesses have made a tremendous contribution to the promotion of smallpox vaccination, which is an undeniable fact."
Building the princess's residence is not only my reward to them, but also an affirmation and respect for their achievements.
This decision is irreversible.
Hongchang's tone was firm and powerful.
Hongchang paused for a moment and then continued, "When dealing with those bondservants before, a large amount of their property was confiscated."
There's no reason why those bondservants could enjoy endless wealth and luxury.
The princesses who made great contributions to the Qing Dynasty
But they cannot have a mansion of their own.
Moreover, the implementation of smallpox vaccination in various regions has greatly reduced the expenses that were originally used to treat smallpox.
This not only reduced the burden on the people, but also saved the country a lot of financial resources.
The princesses' contributions are indelible, and they deserve the treatment they are entitled to.
The Minister of Revenue, after hearing the emperor's words, still harbored some hesitation.
But he knew the emperor's mind was made up, so he dared not object.
Therefore, he had no choice but to respectfully accept the order and said he would arrange the construction of the princess's residence as soon as possible.
Seeing this, the other ministers dared not utter another word in rebuttal.
They all had their own agendas.
The princesses' outstanding performance this time brought them into the public eye, no longer making them as unknown as before.
Their courage and sense of responsibility have made them role models for many women.
The Emperor's lavish praise on the princesses speaks volumes about his regard for them.
Many ministers began to realize that these princesses were not only of noble birth.
Moreover, she was raised so well by the Empress Dowager; such a princess would be the best choice for a daughter-in-law for her children and grandchildren.
Therefore, some ministers with ulterior motives began to tentatively mention the princesses' marriages to Hongchang.
They were trying to figure out the emperor's intentions.
The Minister of Rites then spoke first:
"Your Majesty, the princesses are now growing older, and each one is intelligent and virtuous."
They also performed exceptionally well in smallpox vaccination, which is truly admirable.
What are His Majesty's plans regarding the princesses' marriages?
Hongchang knew that the Empress Dowager had high expectations for the princesses.
Moreover, he himself had a good relationship with the princesses, and this marriage was so important to the women.
He certainly wouldn't just give away the princesses' marriages like that.
Otherwise, how could we live up to the teachings of our Empress Mother, and also fail to honor the excellence of the princesses themselves?
If he were to easily arrange marriages for his sisters, he would likely be beaten to death by his mother, the Empress Dowager.
Hongchang sat calmly on the dragon throne, glanced at the court officials, and slowly began to speak:
"Of course I hope that the princesses can find good matches and have a smooth life."
But this matter cannot be rushed; the princesses are still young and have much to learn and grow from.”
The Minister of Rites added, "Your Majesty, the princesses are so outstanding..."
"If a marriage can be arranged soon, forming a union with a high-ranking official's family, it will benefit both the royal family and the court."
Hongchang frowned slightly. "I understand your good intentions, but I value the princesses' feelings even more."
Furthermore, the Empress Dowager doted on the princesses the most, and their marriages required her approval.
This matter will be discussed later; my esteemed ministers need not say more.”
Seeing Hongchang's resolute attitude, the ministers dared not mention the marriage again and all bowed their heads in agreement.
Hongchang glanced at the people in the court and understood what these ministers were thinking.
He smiled slightly and said, "My dear ministers, today's court session is adjourned. You may all leave the court."
The ministers rose, bowed, and withdrew from the court.
They walked along, whispering amongst themselves, all trying to guess Hongchang's true intentions.
Someone said, "It seems the Emperor doesn't want to hastily arrange the princesses' marriages."
I'm afraid we'll have to wait until they come up with their own ideas.
Another person chimed in, "Yes, the Emperor dotes on the princesses so much..."
They must hope that they can marry a good husband.
However, the Empress Dowager devoted even more effort to the upbringing of the princesses.
I'm afraid even the Emperor would need to obtain the Empress Dowager's consent first.
At this moment, a young official interjected:
"The Empress Dowager is extremely cautious about the princesses' marriages, and she will probably personally select the consorts."
We, as your subjects, are afraid we'll have to put in a lot more effort.
Everyone nodded in agreement, each secretly plotting how to give their own sons a chance to marry the princess.
Someone said, "It seems we should first ask our wives to send a token to the palace."
"By maintaining contact with the Empress Dowager, we might be able to glean some information."
Another minister nodded and said, "That's right, we should start with the Empress Dowager."
If one can win her favor, the Emperor will naturally consider it.
Some people also approached Fucha Honghan to inquire.
"Lord Cheng'en, this is the Empress Dowager's own father, isn't he?"
Do you know about the Empress Dowager's arrangements for the princesses' marriages?
Fucha Honghan hurriedly shook his head and said
"Lord Li, you must be joking."
Although I am the Empress Dowager's biological father, the princesses' marriages are a major royal event.
The Empress Dowager and the Emperor will naturally consider this carefully.
"I am but a mere official outside the capital; how dare I presume to speculate on the royal family's arrangements?"
Fucha Honghan smiled slightly, his tone humble and cautious.
Lord Li was somewhat disappointed that Fucha Honghan was unwilling to say more, but he dared not ask any further questions.
This Duke Cheng'en was different from before long ago, after he sent his daughter to the palace.
This Duke Cheng'en may seem quiet and unassuming, but when he does act, it's always something big.
They can't underestimate this guy.
How enviable! The Duke of Cheng'en has truly raised a wonderful daughter.
As soon as Hongchang's decree reached the princesses, the princesses expressed their gratitude and saw off the eunuch who delivered the decree.
The entire princess's residence erupted in jubilation.
Princesses Shuhe and Wenyi, among others, learned that they had been promoted to the rank of Heshuo Princess.
They will also have their own princess residence, and everyone is all smiles.
They sat together, chattering excitedly about their future plans.
Shuhe's face was full of joyful smiles.
"I never expected that the Emperor would not only bestow titles upon us sisters this time..."
They're also going to build us a princess's palace. Once the princess's palace is completed...
"Then we can go out of the palace for a walk."
Wen Yi also nodded, "Yes, His Majesty is so generous, unlike Father Emperor."
With the princess's residence, it will be much easier for us to do what we want.
Jinghe's eyes were filled with joy and gratitude.
"We sisters owe our current status to our Empress Mother and the Emperor."
They not only gave us glory, but also the opportunity to realize our own value.
We must cherish this opportunity and not let them down.
Princess Shuhe gently took Jinghe's hand and said softly:
“Jinghe is right. We need to let the Empress Dowager and the Emperor know that their favor has not been in vain.”
We must not only be good princesses, but also princesses who are useful to the Qing Dynasty.
Princess Wenyi smiled slightly and said:
"We should also go to the Emperor and Empress Dowager to express our gratitude."
A few days ago, I embroidered a fan cover for the Emperor and a pair of shoe uppers for the Empress Dowager.
We can take it and present it to them to express our gratitude.
Although my sister's embroidery isn't valuable, it's a token of her affection.
Princess Shuhe nodded and said:
"Great idea! Wen Yan is so thoughtful."
I've also prepared a gift; let's go together, sisters.
The other princesses echoed the sentiment.
When the news reached the Yuanmingyuan Garden, the birth mothers of the princesses, including Consort Jing, Consort Jin, and Consort Hui, were overjoyed.
They were overjoyed to learn that their daughter had been promoted to the rank of Princess Heshuo!
What delighted them even more was that their daughters would also have their own princess residences.
This means their status will be further elevated.
Their hearts were filled with joy and pride; they were incredibly proud of their daughter's achievements.
They gathered together, raised their glasses, and celebrated this exciting moment.
After a few rounds of drinks, everyone's spirits rose higher and higher, and someone suggested playing mahjong to add to the festive atmosphere.
At the card table, they laughed and chatted, fully enjoying this rare moment of togetherness.
But among this group of joyful people, there were some with mixed feelings.
That means Princess Wenpin and the other princesses were still in their swaddling clothes.
Seeing Consort Jing and the others so happy, they felt a pang of envy.
Their daughters were too young to enjoy as much glory and treatment as other princesses.
But they also knew that time would pass, and their daughter would eventually grow up.
Their daughter will surely become a remarkable princess in the future.
Thinking about this, they calmed down a bit and continued to laugh and celebrate with everyone.
Nian Shilan felt that her time at the Yuanmingyuan was a rare period of relaxation.
But I can't help but think of Fucha Peiyun in the palace.
After Hongchang finished his court session, he hurriedly took Zhang Hude to Kunning Palace.
His steps seemed hurried, eager to enjoy the delicacies in the Empress Dowager's palace.
He didn't have time to dine at Kunning Palace every day.
Upon entering Kunning Palace, Hongchang respectfully bowed to Fucha Peiyun.
The mother and son met, exchanged pleasantries, and then sat down together for a meal.
After sitting down, Hongchang took the opportunity to tell Fucha Peiyun about the ministers' discussion of the princesses' marriages in court.
Upon hearing this, Fucha Peiyun's expression darkened slightly, and she looked displeased.
She put down her chopsticks and slowly said:
"These ministers are like wolves that have caught the smell of meat!"
Seeing that the princesses now had a chance to rise in status, they all pounced on them like hungry wolves.