were granted positions within the feudal domains. Though not official government officials or part of the imperial court's roster, they received salaries and authority dispensed by Prince Wen's househ...Chapter 442: Contributing to the Nation

As the prince, Li Chen offering such great benefits was already considered utmost benevolence. To say more would only detract from his status.

And Master Jing's status wasn't low either. He wanted to agree, but he also needed a way down.

It wouldn't do for Li Chen to suggest setting up a statue and proclaiming him a national teacher, and you just agree immediately, would it That would make Jingzhi seem rather mercenary, wouldn't it

"Sir, you often say that all walks of life, including scholars, farmers, artisans, and merchants, should regard serving the country as their duty. To govern one's family well, to manage the state well, and to bring peace to the world is our shared responsibility, an obligation we cannot shirk."

"It is known to all that Master's ambition does not lie in the court or the fields. But if this country truly needs Master, he should also give up his leisurely and free life as a crane among clouds, for the sake of the common people. Only then will he live up to his reputation as a wise man."

Su Jinpa bowed deeply to Mr. Mirror, saying, "If sir is willing to serve in the court, I believe it would be a great fortune for the imperial court and the people of the world."

Mr. Jing, twisting his snow-white eyebrows, looked at Su Jinpa. After a long silence, he sighed and said, "Well then, since that's the case, I'll agree."

"That said, Mr. Mirror turned to Li Chen and said, 'But I have three conditions for you.'"

"As I grow older, my energy and stamina are no longer what they used to be. Therefore, unless there are important matters to attend to, may Your Highness allow me to skip the morning roll call and avoid going to court If there are important matters to discuss, I will arrive promptly."

Li Chen nodded and said, "That makes sense."

“Furthermore, Your Highness, whatever official position or rank you intend to bestow upon me, please refrain from assigning me specific tasks. I only wish to teach diligently and impart all my knowledge to as many people as possible. As for other matters, I lack both the energy and capability to handle them. Everyone has their strengths and weaknesses; mine lie solely in teaching and nurturing others.”

Li Chen continued to nod and said, "Reasonable, yes."

"The last item."

Mr. Jing said solemnly, “I have only served the imperial court for three years, so I hope that before this year's spring planting, Your Highness can fulfill your promise and open schools nationwide!”

The first two conditions, Li Chen agreed very readily, but only this third one, made Li Chen frown.

He doesn't want to go back on his promise. In fact, for a country to truly become strong, universal education is a must. Right now, the illiteracy rate in the Qin Empire is terrifyingly high.

In fact, all feudal dynasties were like this. Studying was always a privilege for children of wealthy families. Children from poor families had to tend cattle and help with household chores at an early age. Who would have the money or time to study

"So-called scholars from humble families, there are many humble families in the world, but how many scholars can come out of them"

Therefore, popularizing education is something Li Chen must do.

but that is not the case now.

"Sir, you should know that the current Qin treasury simply cannot afford nationwide education."

Li Chen said: "Even if we set aside the massive amount of silver, ordinary poor families, with one more laborer, can earn more money. How do we persuade them to send their children to school Moreover, where would there be so many teachers to be sent all over the country to educate those children"

Many times, the top leadership doesn't lack good policies.

But the reality doesn't allow it.

It's a pipe dream for the Qin Dynasty to popularize education now.

Mr. Mirror frowned and sighed, "But I'm eighty years old now. How many more years can I live I'm in a hurry."

Li Chen said in a soft voice, "Sir, please rest assured. Within three years, I will definitely popularize education. But one must eat rice grain by grain. Before that, I won't let you idle either. First, under the imperial banner, we will establish an academy in the capital city, with you as the first headmaster."ould never risk being condemned by the world and actually rebel.”After all, we people of the Central Plains recognize legitimacy. He usurped power under the guise of a prince, so even if he succeeded,...