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If one can discuss current affairs and offer insightful analysis, an additional five silver coins!
…
Accumulative rewards with no limit!
With the enticing prospect of shiny silver coins, everyone eagerly stepped forward, competing to see if they could earn the rewards.
Some even temporarily sent their eligible children, hoping to earn the corresponding silver coins.
As a result, any place where Jiang Junli distributed silver coins was swarmed, creating a bustling atmosphere.
Throughout the capital, it became an honor to both study and earn the silver coins provided by Jiang Junli.
Observing this scene, Jiang Junli couldn’t help but smile, feeling quite pleased with himself.
The Crown Prince, observing the situation, expressed deep concern, “By freely distributing silver coins, wouldn’t it potentially lead some individuals to take advantage of the situation, tarnishing your intention of seeking talented individuals to serve the court?”
“No need to worry,” Jiang Junli dismissed the concern, “While my initial aim was to reward diligent scholars, if this initiative encourages ordinary people to learn to read and write, it’s also a positive outcome. Encouragement should be extended in such cases.”
“However, those with intentions to deceive and exploit others inherently lack proper moral compasses. If such individuals were to engage in learning…”
“Wouldn’t this disrupt the order of society?” The Crown Prince still held some reservations about Jiang Junli’s perspective.
Jiang Junli continued to smile, “Human nature is inherently good. At present, the pursuit of money may lead to temporary financial constraints, prompting temporary measures. However, it also enlightens people about the vast opportunities education holds, encouraging a greater willingness to learn and read. It can be seen as a way to motivate everyone to pursue literacy and education.”
“Even if the initial intentions are not pure, through gradual learning and understanding, one’s mindset and character can evolve,” Jiang Junli elaborated. “Education is a long-term endeavor, and realizing the benefits of education is not achieved overnight. My actions provide only minimal assistance, but without them, there would be no impact at all.”
After Jiang Junli’s explanation, the Crown Prince pondered for a moment, nodding slightly. “Well said, Junli. Your vision is vast and profound, surpassing mine. I am humbled, truly humbled.”
“You flatter me, Your Highness,” Jiang Junli chuckled.
“Just curious, can your resources sustain this continuous outflow of silver?”
Although the Jiang family was wealthy and had various industries in the capital, this generous spending by Jiang Junli was substantial, with silver flowing out like water.
One could say that describing Jiang Junli as a “generous spender” wouldn’t be an overstatement. The Crown Prince, witnessing this lavish spending, felt a pang of concern, especially regarding Jiang Junli’s financial resources.
“I can manage the expenses,” Jiang Junli sighed. “But speaking of silver, there’s actually something troubling me.”
“What is it?”
“The Jiang family has many merchant ships trading overseas, particularly with our vassal states. Recently, news arrived stating that several of these ships ran aground and sank, carrying cargoes of silk and porcelain.”
Upon hearing this, the Crown Prince furrowed his brow, “And what about your current situation…”
Wouldn’t that be a substantial loss?
“So, I sent people to salvage the wrecks and, in the vicinity of the sunken ships, we discovered many vessels that had sunk years ago. Among them, we found numerous treasures, including gold, silver, jewels, and coins from the vassal states, seemingly of priceless value.”
In other words, a windfall has been unexpectedly gained?