Arrangements

Yu Qian left them some of the disaster relief grain and silver provided by the Imperial Court, but he did not fully trust Cai Sheng to manage it.

Cai Sheng probably would not remain in Yushan County for long. To claim the credit for securing the rebels' surrender and save his own head, he had spent quite a bit of money.

No one knew whether, after Yu Qian left, he would foolishly lay his hands on the relief supplies. Or perhaps he would not act himself, but might be unable to keep those beneath him in check.

So, to ensure that post-disaster reconstruction went more smoothly, Yu Qian invited the county commandant, the chief clerk, Pan Yun, and the county's respected landlords and village elders.

He handed the money and grain over to the county yamen, which would oversee the reconstruction work, while Pan Yun and the landlords and village elders would serve as witnesses and supervisors.

In other words, Pan Yun and the others had the right to inspect the accounts for the money and grain and keep watch over where it went at all times.

Master Qian squeezed up beside Pan Yun and whispered, "This is truly a sight seen once in a hundred years. Who would have thought that in my lifetime, I'd get to inspect the county yamen's accounts? This Imperial Envoy is truly enlightened."

Pan Yun said, "Lord Yu's reputation as a righteous official was not earned for nothing."

Master Qian nodded faintly.

Two elderly men came over with bent backs, narrowing their eyes as they looked at Pan Yun. "Is this the temple keeper from Mount Sanqing, Pan?"

Master Qian immediately answered with enthusiasm, "Elder Zhou, Elder Yang, this is Temple Keeper Pan, Temple Master Wang's Junior Sister and a disciple of the Mountain