Chapter 1162: Experience (1)
The other ministers also felt that there was something wrong with the minister who made this suggestion. Now, the tariffs on the sea trade accounted for one-fifth of the tax revenue every year, which was comparable to the salt tax. If they were to ban the sea trade again, how much revenue would be lost?
Everyone looked at the official in disdain. Qi Haoran also said solemnly, "Whether it’s the Westerners, the West Xia people, the Great Yuan people, or the Goryeoers, the Tran Dynasty people, we should be vigilant against them. At the same time, we should try our best to be friendly in order to bring about mutually beneficial cooperation. How can we cut ties with others and give up all gains just because of potential danger?"
Seeing everyone nod in agreement, Qi Haoran heaved a sigh of relief, relieved that he had finally diverted everyone’s attention.
The ministers only felt that something was wrong when they left the Imperial Study. They looked at each other and said, "Aren’t we here to ask about the poisoning?"
Another official gritted his teeth and said, "To think we left without even properly discussing the ’poisoning incident’ with King Rong."
However, with the Emperor still watching, it was impossible for everyone to turn around and settle scores with Qi Haoran.
Unfortunately for the ministers, this matter had to be kept a secret. At the very least, they could not let the English envoy find out about this. Otherwise, if the English were guarded against them, who knew what they would do next?
When everyone thought of this, they almost vomited blood. They could only suffer this secret loss in silence!
However, most people still looked at Lord Xia hatefully and mocked, "As the Left Assistant Minister of the Ministry of Justice, Lord Xia actually believes the words of three young children without enquiring more. It seems that Lord Xia trusts your grandson very much."
Unfortunately, he was screwed over by his grandson.