Chapter 495: Writing an Announcement
Translator: Henyee Translations Editor: Henyee Translations
After a swift transfer of responsibilities in the government office throughout the night, Governor Lin promptly rented a carriage and departed from
Shanglin Prefecture the following morning. His haste was evident; he appeared eager to leave the place behind.
In reality, there wasn’t much to transfer. Aside from numerous unsolved cold cases, Governor Lin also had his subordinates to account for. He chose not to take with him the registration clerk, the safekeeping room archivist, and the governor’s two assistants, as these individuals were all locals. There were also twelve constables who remained behind.
The presence of merely twelve constables within the entire government office was an enduring source of amazement. In a typical county office, there would be a significantly larger number of constables, with some even exceeding two
dozen.
Governor Lin’s explanation for this shortage was the paucity of public funds, preventing them from hiring more constables. When he first assumed his post, there had been only twelve constables, well below the standard. However, he lacked the financial means to increase their numbers, as the higher authorities hadn’t allocated sufficient funds.
In reality, numerous areas within the government office demanded financial resources. Throughout his year in office, Governor Lin had even used much of his own salary.
Su Bin scrutinized the individuals left behind by Governor Lin. He had conducted a prior investigation and was aware that these individuals were local bullies. While they lacked the capacity to manage cases, they leveraged their identity as local ruffians to intimidate troublemakers who came to the government office.
However, when they encountered bandits, they would flee faster than rabbits. In most instances, their influence exceeded even that of Governor Lin.
If Governor Lin wished to establish himself within Shanglin Prefecture, he would need to rely on these individuals.
These individuals possessed some knowledge about Su Bin, and initially, they treated him with respect.
They were aware that Su Bin’s wife, Qin Zhenzhen, was both a renowned divine doctor and a shrewd business genius. Her brand of seasonings had permeated throughout the nation, producing nearly all the seasonings consumed across the country.
In addition to her seasoning business, she had also established a chain of health centers, each of which thrived in the prosperous capitals. The daily income pouring into their accounts was undoubtedly substantial, indicating that Su Bin was far from lacking in wealth.
Upon assuming office, Su Bin’s initial priority was the immediate repair of the government office, a prospect that intrigued them.
Being in the service of such a wealthy individual, they naturally aimed to gain his favor respectfully.
Furthermore, they had received word that Su Bin’s background was far from ordinary. He was not only the heir to the Marquis Mansion but had also earned the Emperor’s favor. Most notably, his connection to the Dragon Phoenix Hall was particularly noteworthy.
Decades ago, the Dragon Phoenix Hall had commanded immense respect, even from the underworld. Though it had suffered severe setbacks during those years, it had managed to make a resurgence during this period. Its influence now rivaled its former glory, as evidenced by its warnings to surrounding bandit hideouts.
In any case, their initial inclination was to temporarily set aside their unruly natures and exhibit respect towards the new governor. If he proved competent, they might anticipate leading a more comfortable life under his leadership.
Su Bin’s first directive, however, was not to repair the Drifting Rain Yamen, but to have them post notices to recruit twelve constables.
“Wang Erma, your task today is to prepare twenty-four announcements,” he addressed a clerk by the name of Wang Erma, also known as “Poxed Face Wang, ” the sole Cultivated Talent within the government office.
The others had only received a few years of education and hadn’t even achieved the status of Cultivated Talent.
Su Bin handed a piece of paper to Poxed Face Wang, who confidently responded, “Don’t worry, Governor.. I promise to complete the task!”