The Grand Secretariat system had been established during the Ming dynasty. It was a remarkably forward-thinking administrative system with considerable advantages for governing a country.
Liu Xie had thought of establishing a Grand Secretariat long ago, but this was not something he could decide casually, so he had been preparing for it all along.
Over this long period, he had first let Zhuge Liang, Guo Jia, Jia Xu, Sima Yi, and the others participate in deliberations on state affairs, then later put them directly in charge of handling and reviewing memorials, gradually delegating power.
By now, the civil and military court officials had more or less accepted letting ministers handle government affairs. It was precisely the right time for him to propose the reform.
"Your Majesty, this-this absolutely must not be done!"
Kong Rong recovered from his shock and said anxiously, "The Son of Heaven is the ruler of the nation. How can all affairs of state be entrusted to his subjects?"
"If so, if so, I fear..."
He did not dare finish his sentence. The Son of Heaven's delegation of power could all too easily lead to ministers monopolizing authority!
The Ten Attendants had been the best example!
But before Kong Rong could finish, Cui Yan stepped forward and shook his head. "You are mistaken, Grand Chamberlain. As subjects, assisting the Son of Heaven is our duty."
"As the saying goes, a household with a remonstrating son will not fall; a nation with worthy ministers will not perish. All the civil and military officials at court are worthy, capable ministers. His Majesty is establishing the Grand Secretariat and allowing us to assist with government affairs for the sake of all under Great Han's rule. What is improper about that?"
"I consider this Grand Secretariat system good-excellent!"
After Cui Yan