February 1, 1851—the first day of the first lunar month in the first year of Xianfeng's reign.
"In this Xin-Hai year of a new era, I sit behind the screen, trembling as I face the sun. I dare pray for a thousand springs of eternity, seeking only health for the myriad people. Profound grace reveals its silent blessing; great works bestow favor without bounds. Reverently I beseech Heaven's universal protection, that Xianfeng's governance may shine."
"Fine poem! A fine poem indeed! With Your Majesty's talent, even if Li Bai and Du Fu returned to life, they would have to bow in willing defeat."
The speaker was none other than Aisin Gioro Yishan (1790–1878), style name Jingxuan, a Manchu of the Plain Blue Banner. A Qing Dynasty imperial clansman, he was the great-grandson of Aisin Gioro Yinti, Kangxi's fourteenth son.
Known as the Eastern Exorcist, he had once attempted to use a chamber pot as a raft to break the evil sorcery of the British barbarians. Alas, when the Dao rose one foot, the devil rose ten; in the end, he could only pay indemnities and sue for peace.
Even so, Yishan remained deeply trusted by Xianfeng and the Qing court. One had to admit, being skilled at reading the sovereign's wishes truly was useful.
"Grand Secretary Qi, Third-Ranked Scholar, why aren't you two saying anything?"
Ji Zhichang, style name Xianjiu, was from Jiangyin, Jiangsu. He had been the third-ranked scholar in the first class of the Daoguang twelfth-year metropolitan examinations, and currently served as Left Censor-in-Chief.
Yishan knew that there was not much ink in his belly, and he knew even better that these literati looked down on him somewhat because he came from a military background and had suffered a crushing defeat in Guangzhou.
As it happened, Yishan looked