Chapter 9

Everyone present brightened at this question. It was the matter they were most concerned about. Chen Ke paused in his speech; he had once contemplated how to address this issue, or rather, whether to tell the revolutionary predecessors of the Restoration Society the truth. Chen Ke had been indecisive, and as he noticed the people around him staring intently at him, he felt a twinge of nervousness. For some reason, he suddenly recalled a saying his mother had once told him, "It is easy to die first, but difficult to die later." Chen Ke had been indecisive, and as he noticed the people around him staring intently at him, he felt a twinge of nervousness. For some reason, he suddenly recalled a saying his mother had once told him, "It is easy to die first, but difficult to die later."

Oh, is there a solution for the school buildings and teachers?

In a few days, I will finish dyeing the fabric in my hands and sell it. I hope to earn a little profit. Brother Bosun has treated me so generously, and I would like to offer him a small token of my appreciation.

This is precisely why Xu Xilin was quite surprised that Chen Ke had taken on the task of establishing a school in Shanghai. However, when Chen Ke proactively mentioned providing Xu Xilin with a sum of money, Xu Xilin naturally would not refuse.

When they returned to their residence, it was already dark. The one who opened the door was Qiu Jin's maid, Lin Jian. Upon entering the courtyard, they saw that both Xu Xilin's and Qiu Jin's rooms were lit. Voices of argument could be heard coming from Xu Xilin's room. Upon hearing the sound of the main door, Xu Xilin stepped out of his room after a moment, saying, "You two come in." From his tone, it was evident that Xu Xilin was quite stern.

The rise of various Western countries has been briefly outlined. Chen Ke pointed out with great seriousness that the strength of the West lies in their implementation of "industrialization." As an agricultural nation, China must industrialize. Industrialization represents a comprehensive "revolution" against the existing agricultural system in China. Any system that is unsuitable for an industrial nation must be overthrown. Therefore, the Qing Dynasty must be toppled.

Cai Yuanpei was a scholar, not an economist. The others in the room, such as Tao Chengzhang, Xu Xilin, and Qiu Jin, could hardly be considered scholars. When Chen Ke spoke of the brutality of the capitalist accumulation period, these individuals initially showed no reaction; however, once they understood, each of them appeared somewhat astonished.

What are the recent plans of the literary youth

The two returned to the workshop, and it was already close to noon. Upon entering, they were surprised to see three people working in the yard. Upon closer inspection, they found that Qi Huishen, whom they had only met yesterday, was actually helping to hang the cloth under the direction of You Qiao. Qi Huishen was also wearing a dark blue work uniform, tilting his head back to pull the rope. "Aren't you tired from looking up like that?" You Qiao commanded, "First, pull the rope down. There is a loop at this end; put the loop over the corresponding hook. Then adjust the position." Qi Huishen was also wearing a dark blue work uniform, tilting his head back to pull the rope. "Aren't you tired from looking up like that?" You Qiao commanded, "First, pull the rope down. There is a loop at this end; put the loop over the corresponding hook. Then adjust the position."

Chen Ke spoke in a low voice, articulating each word slowly. Upon hearing Chen Ke's words, the expressions of everyone in the room turned serious. Chen Ke's gaze swept across the crowd; aside from Hua Xiong, who could not help but show a hint of joy, the others appeared rather displeased.

Ten square wooden beams corresponding to those above were placed on the ground, with iron hooks nailed to the beams. To prevent injury, the iron hooks were designed to resemble iron rings with a small notch cut out. This was a suggestion made by Hua Xiongmao

At noon, Wu Xingchen appeared at the door. Looking at the densely hung fabrics in the courtyard, Wu Xingchen felt quite regretful. The last time he met Chen Ke, if it hadn't been for He Yifa's meddling, Chen Ke would likely have signed the agreement with him. With such a large courtyard full of fabrics, it could have earned a considerable amount. After He Yifa returned, he began searching for buyers, but this guy, according to the local Shanghai dialect, is just a "little He Tushubei San." Otherwise, at his age, he wouldn't have only managed to become an ordinary henchman. He went to find people, but no one was willing to pay him any attention. To be honest, although he was quite angry at the time, Wu Xingchen was also wary of Chen Ke's special visit last time, but he did not dislike Chen Ke. So he simply made an excuse and sent He Yifa out to do errands, which spared Chen Ke from any harassment.

Chen Ke was unaware of the complexities involved; for him, it was sufficient to focus on completing the current tasks. "I will present a set of regulations within seven days," Chen Ke stated

As soon as he entered the room, Xu Xilin said to Chen Ke: "Wenqing, what did you say to Mr. Cai today"

"Brother Wenqing, yesterday you spoke about some revolutionary topics, particularly mentioning that the revolution must be led by the people. Could you elaborate on this today?"

I believe they are the true revolutionaries. The current gentry mostly support constitutionalism, thinking that if they can take power from the Qing dynasty, they will be able to govern the country well. At the very least, their lives would be much better. If the Qing dynasty were to truly implement constitutionalism and fulfill the desires of these people, they would not seek revolution. Even the radical revolutionaries would likely accept it as long as a constitution were established and the queue was cut. Many among them would probably acquiesce. As for the common people, they do not even know how to write the word "revolution"; in fact, most of them are illiterate. However, if the current system in China does not change, their lives are destined to be extremely difficult. When they rise up in revolution, they will certainly aim to completely overthrow and rebuild this world. There are over 400 million common people, while those in power, along with their subordinates, number at most 5 million. When 400 million people stand up to demand revolution, can these 5 million really withstand such a tide?

What Mr. or not Mr., just call me Wenqing

Qi Huishen showed no signs of anger; he also stood up and said, "Then I shall take my leave first." After Qi Huishen exited the courtyard, Hua Xiongmao curiously asked, "Wen Qing, why are you making things so difficult for this guy?"

Hua Xiongmao expressed some confidence in what Chen Ke said. After pondering for a moment, he suddenly laughed and said, "If Wenqing were to establish a school, I would certainly want to be a student. Listening to Wenqing's lectures would surely be a delightful experience"

Hearing what Qiu Jin and Chen Ke said, Xu Xilin felt it was inappropriate to say anything further. He then continued, "Xuanqing and I will be going out for a while. I wonder if Wenqing can adapt to staying in Shanghai?"

Having solidified his idea, Chen Ke looked at Tao Chengzhang and said earnestly: "My revolution is to lead those impoverished citizens who cannot survive to rise up and overthrow the local government, establishing the new system I envision, advancing from one region to another until the liberation of all of China"

The teachers are already in place, but the school buildings are not yet completed

It turns out that this time Cai Yuanpei sought Xu Xilin to discuss Sun Yat-sen's invitation to revolutionary parties from various regions to gather in Japan to discuss cooperation. Several key officials from the Restoration Society would attend. Xu Xilin and Qiu Jin were also among those invited. Xu Xilin was originally not very satisfied with Japan and was even more apprehensive about the group of "overseas revolutionaries" hiding in Japan. He simply declined the invitation.

"Mr. Qi, is it really so?" Chen Ke asked with a smile

In the evening, when fifty pieces of fabric had filled the courtyard, five individuals gathered around the table, rubbing their sore necks and shoulders. Qi Hui turned back to glance at the densely packed fabrics, truly unable to believe that he had participated in so much work

Chen Ke understood that he was not a genius and certainly could not persuade someone he had just met with mere words. Therefore, he believed in "accepting fate and doing one's best"

Mr. Cai has given his instructions, and I also believe this matter can be handled. I will provide Mr. Cai with a draft within five days. If Mr. Cai finds it acceptable, I will proceed; if he deems it unacceptable, I will also follow his instructions. Am I perhaps offending some gentleman from the Restoration Society

Could Brother Bosun wait for me a few days

"Revolution relies on action; those who are unwilling to contribute have no right to participate in my revolution," Chen Ke said with a smile. After meeting with Cai Yuanpei and others during the day, Chen Ke no longer wished to hesitate regarding the revolution. The early members of the Communist Party, just a few in number, managed to liberate China in merely 28 years. Since he was willing to engage in revolution, he would gather with comrades who were also ready to fight and work hard, just like those predecessors. Hard work is essential; "it is easy to die first, but difficult to die later." When the day truly comes to sacrifice for the revolution, it is best to go to death without any regrets. Why overthink it?

Qiu Jin understood Xu Xilin's thoughts. She knew it was not appropriate to speak directly, so she decided to mediate the situation. "Wenqing, Mr. Cai holds you in high regard. He mentioned that someone like you, a pragmatic individual, is quite rare. Moreover, Mr. Cai believes you possess sharpness and a sense of responsibility. I have great confidence in you regarding the establishment of the school."

It was not Miss You who forced me to work. I asked for help myself. Last time I saw Mr. Wenqing working with a few others, I also wanted to see how exhausting the work you do is, Mr. Wenqing

Qiu Jin then encouraged Chen Ke with a few words. The meeting was soon adjourned

"You can, today you have worked in vain. Starting tomorrow, you and your friends will come to work together. Moreover, I have other matters to attend to today and cannot give you a lesson. If there is nothing else, I will take my leave now." As he spoke, Chen Ke stood up.

Upon hearing this, Hua Xiong also laughed, "Although I took the martial examination, I have also attended a private school. Back then, I was beaten by the teacher every day. Being beaten by the teacher was one thing; if my parents found out that the teacher had beaten me, I would receive a severe beating at home as well. It was truly unbearable."

Chen Keqi asked strangely, "Where are you two going"

"This school is not solely affiliated with the Restoration Society. Moreover, I heard from Bosun that the literary youth wishes to join the Restoration Society. The literary youth will take care of this matter first, treating it as a favor for me," said Cai Yuanpei. Chen Ke glanced around; everyone appeared calm, showing no signs of suspicion. He thought it would be interesting to see what tricks were afoot. "I will draft a set of regulations for Mr. Cai to review. If Mr. Cai gives me this opportunity, I will definitely handle it well," Chen Ke replied earnestly.

Everyone exchanged a few more words, and Qiu Jin cast a glance at Chen Ke and Hua Xiongmao. The two promptly stood up to take their leave. Cai Yuanpei nodded in agreement.

Qi Huishen did not expect that Chen Ke would actually make such an absurd request. After thinking for a moment, Qi Huishen said: "I have a friend; I would like him to come along to work and attend the class. Is that acceptable?"

"Literary youth, are you really preparing to establish a school?" Hua Xiongmao asked

Upon hearing this, Xu Xilin hesitated to speak. The person affected was actually Xu Xilin himself, as he had already discussed with Tao Chengzhang about establishing a school in Shaoxing. If Chen Keruo were to run a school in Shanghai, it would inevitably hinder his own efforts. Xu Xilin felt somewhat dissatisfied about this.

What is the matter with the literary youth

Fortunately, there are plenty of work uniforms, and everyone puts on their clothes and starts working. Qi Hui Shen and He Zu Dao are both working hard, while You Gao has always been responsible for tasks with lower labor intensity. Now that he has two subordinates, You Gao is even happier in his work.

"Brother Shen, given your work efficiency, I believe that if you work for me, I can offer you 15 wen for a piece of cloth, along with free lectures. Would that be acceptable?" Chen Ke put forth his request

Mr. Literary Youth... ..." Qi Hui Shen said.

At this point, Chen Ke could not help but acknowledge that the close collaboration with the Restoration Society was indeed a high-risk endeavor. If he wished to join the Restoration Society, he would inevitably have to undergo numerous "tests." The radical agenda of the Restoration Society, along with uprisings and assassinations occurring in various regions, was incessant. Xu Xilin had assassinated the Anhui governor En Ming. Since Chen Ke completely disagreed with this revolutionary model, he decided to candidly express his revolutionary ideals to the Restoration Society. This would be beneficial for himself as well as for the Restoration Society. Since Chen Ke completely disagreed with this revolutionary model, he decided to candidly express his revolutionary ideals to the Restoration Society. This would be beneficial for himself as well as for the Restoration Society.

There are many shortcomings in the details, but the general principles are mostly understood, Chen Ke said without hesitation

Qi Huishen followed the instructions given by You Gao and looked up at the fabric above, which was hung quite irregularly. You Gao pulled on a rope at one end of the wall; the bamboo poles used for hanging the fabric were adjusted in spacing by this rope. Once the rope was tightened, the spacing between the bamboo poles became uniform. Qi Huishen found this design very fascinating. As he was examining it closely, he heard You Gao shout, "Finish your work first, then take a look; now continue hanging the fabric." At You Gao's shout, Qi Huishen immediately lowered his head, preparing to hang the fabric on the drooping bamboo poles. He then noticed Chen Ke and Hua Xiongmao standing at the door, looking at him in surprise.

I speak frankly about matters of the revolution

Being with practical individuals like Hua Xiongmao made Chen Ke feel quite relaxed. He chuckled and said, "Mr. Hua, I have indeed run a school before." This was no joke; Chen Ke had operated a tutoring center with friends in the 21st century and was not unfamiliar with such matters. "What I am concerned about is the lack of school facilities. As for establishing a school, that is not a big deal."

Today, according to the time agreed upon with Chen Ke, Wu Xingchen wanted to see what exactly Chen Ke was up to. This way, he could better assess the situation and act accordingly

Britain began plundering the world 300 years ago, and in 1840, it finally turned its attention to China. At that time, Britain had a population of only two to three million. China now has a population of four hundred million, and simply imitating Britain is certainly not feasible. The world is vast; if China were to adopt Britain's approach, would it mean that China would have to eliminate all the people of other countries? China must establish a completely new political system; merely overthrowing the Qing Dynasty does not equate to a successful revolution. Overthrowing the Qing is not the issue; doing so merely signifies that an even more arduous era has just begun.

Have you ever run a school? Huaxiong Mao is quite an interesting person, always able to ask the key questions

"What is there to prevent?" Chen Ke retorted

The room fell silent for a moment, and Cai Yuanpei, sensing the awkwardness, smiled kindly and said, "Do you really think that the intellectuals understand how to establish the new system you mentioned?"

Everyone was surprised when Chen Ke pondered for a moment and then spoke these words. The looks in their eyes were filled with astonishment. Listening to Chen Ke discuss how to build China's industrialization, it seemed as if he were a "reformist." Unexpectedly, Chen Ke not only advocated for violent revolution but could indeed be described as "extremely violent"

What Chen Ke did not know was that Xu Xilin was in dire need of funds. Historically, the Guangfu Society was planning to establish a school under the pretext of education to conduct military training for key members of various societies in Zhejiang, preparing for an armed uprising to overthrow the feudal autocratic rule. Tao Chengzhang, along with Xu Xilin and others, began to organize the establishment of the Datong School. The first challenge in founding the school was the issue of funding. Cai Yuanpei's brother, Cai Yuankang, suggested to Xu Xilin to raise funds by robbing a bank. Xu Xilin agreed and immediately took action, borrowing 5,000 yuan from Xu Zhongqing, a wealthy merchant in Shaoxing, under the guise of conducting gymnastics exercises for students of the Shaoxing Prefectural School, and sought approval from the Shaoxing Prefect, Xiong Qipan. He then purchased 50 rear-loading rifles and 20,000 rounds of ammunition from Shanghai. Xu Xilin also instructed Zhu Shaokang to return to Shengxian to select more than 20 strong young members of the society to come to Shaoxing, providing each with 20 yuan for expenses. Xu Xilin personally supervised their training at Donghu, preparing to implement the robbery plan once the opportunity arose. Tao Chengzhang strongly opposed this approach, believing that fundraising through improper means would harm the overall situation. He argued that once the plan was executed, it would inevitably provoke a huge social backlash, exposing their actions and tarnishing the reputation of the Guangfu Society, ultimately leading to more losses than gains.

Preparing to establish a cultural tutoring class

"I am not referring to what you mentioned earlier. Mr. Cai said he wants to establish a school, and you dare to take it on?" Xu Xilin's voice sounded stern, but Chen Ke did not sense any malice.

The next day, Qi Huishen indeed brought his companion along. Qi Huishen was originally a rather slender young man from Jiangnan, and this classmate named He Zuda was also a delicate young man from Jiangnan. He Zuda even had a braid, appearing very shy and polite.

Upon hearing this, Cai Yuanpei looked at the crowd and said, "Wenqing, I happen to have an opportunity here. The local authorities in Shanghai are preparing to establish a school. They originally wanted me to take the lead, and according to them, the school premises are already secured. Since Wenqing has mentioned that it can be done, I wonder if you would be willing to take charge of it?" Cai Yuanpei gently dropped a heavy bombshell.

The number of people working in the yard increased from four to five. Everyone encouraged Qi to take on some of the easier tasks, and with just one additional person, the work efficiency significantly improved

"Leshi?" Chen Ke laughed heartily upon hearing this, "Zheng Lan, how many students have you seen who love studying? Which one is not driven to despair by their homework?"

At that time, Chen Ke felt that he was always choosing the wrong projects. Later on, he had to painfully realize that he was always seeking quick success, opting for high-risk and uncontrollable paths. Projects that appeared to offer substantial returns also meant that the chances of failure were frighteningly high

Mr. Cai knows so many distinguished individuals; how could it be my place to step forward? Mr. Cai has elevated his regard for me

If Mr. Cai were to let me run the school, I would do so immediately. We will take it one step at a time; thinking too much is of no use. However, we must not neglect our own fabric dyeing business.

At that time, Chen Ke was still young, lacking confidence in himself, and very eager to excel in everything he did. As a result, he always ended up in a complete mess. Chen Ke could not forget how his mother, with a mix of love and anger on her face, articulated this sentence word by word

Xuanqing will go to Japan. I need to return to Shaoxing

Chen Ke spoke eloquently, showing no concern that he was merely a young man who had just met everyone. Chen Ke had come to a realization; since Xu Xilin had recommended him as a revolutionary to Cai Yuanpei and the senior officials of the Restoration Society, he might as well articulate his revolutionary ideas to them. What was the use of overthinking? Chen Ke had already established some initial social connections, including Hua Xiongmao, You Gao, Zhou Yuanxiao, and even Qi Huishen, whom he had met not long ago. These individuals were the true partners with whom Chen Ke would collaborate. They were the social connections upon which Chen Ke would rely in the future. History had proven that revolutionary parties of this era had not gained traction. After the Xinhai Revolution, the Restoration Society soon faded into obscurity. The Tongmenghui, after reorganization, had also become entirely different. So what was the point of expending effort to cater to these parties with no future?

"Literary youth, this Mr. Qi is seeking your guidance. I believe you won't charge him a tuition fee, so let him substitute his labor for the fee," You Gao shouted while skillfully draping cloth over the bamboo pole.

It is easy to die first, but difficult to die later. Do you think those traitors have an easy life after their betrayal? They live in fear every day. Once the Communist Party has taken power, can they spare them? In ordinary times, one should be flexible and not overestimate oneself, agreeing to everything without knowing one's own limits. However, once you have chosen a course of action, you must see it through to the end, without thinking of anything else, and work towards success. First, establish your own territory, one that you can control and manage. This is your foundation. If you reach the end and fate decrees your death, then face it calmly. To be a person, one must first be upright and avoid any crooked paths. One must also be wise and not seek one's own demise. Additionally, one must have integrity and be willing to face the consequences. Once you have chosen a course of action, you must never become a deserter or a traitor.

Xu Xilin recalled his conversation with Qiu Jin yesterday. Qiu Jin believed that Chen Ke was not a heartless person. After hearing Chen Ke's words today, Xu Xilin's dissatisfaction with Chen Ke diminished significantly. He exchanged a few polite remarks but did not decline.

"Mr. Wenqing, why do you lead the impoverished? What do those people understand about revolution?" a middle-aged man, whom Chen Ke did not recognize, asked.

Upon stepping outside, Chen Kechang exhaled, as if he intended to release all the pent-up frustration within him

"That's good," Cai Yuanpei said with a smile. "I believe that the literary youth should be able to handle it well"

Then you continue, I will come over soon to join you.

As Xu Xilin watched Chen Ke speak eloquently in front of those esteemed members of the Restoration Society, he was reminded of the Chen Ke who had once passionately discussed revolution with him. Xu Xilin had at one point believed that Chen Ke was not truly a revolutionary, but rather a opportunist, merely seeking to ride on his coattails to find opportunities in Shanghai. Now, seeing Chen Ke's demeanor once again, Xu Xilin suddenly felt that the man before him was indeed an incredible individual. Chen Ke never spoke of how to overthrow the Qing dynasty; he only discussed what kind of China should be established in the future. Listening to his reasoned arguments, which, however, did not address the pressing issues at hand, Xu Xilin was about to pose a question when he heard Tao Chengzhang ask first: "Mr. Wenqing, I wonder how you plan to overthrow the Qing dynasty."