She Became A Downfall Noble Lady

The Emperor nodded and instructed, "There’s no need for further discussion, it must be right. Hasn’t the hand-cranked hoist already been tested? I’ve heard about that device, they say the maximum load is carved on the iron shell. Craftsmen from Qingyuan County have explained that they tested it, and the actual lifting capacity of the hand-cranked hoist is far greater than the maximum load. This shows that the Mechanical Workshop is very cautious in their work. Since they’ve managed to deliver the device to the capital, it must have been well thought out."

The Emperor then ordered Jinrong, "Send someone to Qingyuan County to send a message, asking them to send over the lathe plans for making bolts and nuts, along with skilled craftsmen who can operate it proficiently, to the capital as soon as possible. This needs to be handled promptly. By next spring, the court plans to lay rails between Heyuan Commandery and Liaoyuan Prefecture, and we cannot afford any delays."

Although Jinrong showed little emotion, he agreed promptly, nodding immediately in response.

"As for the hand-cranked hoist," the Emperor looked at Jinrong, "it’s also a good item. How about it, let’s make a fair deal with the Ministry of Works and transfer the hand-cranked hoist to the court, what do you say?"

Having been listless at first, Jinrong perked up at this and sat bolt upright, "Imperial Father, this won’t do. The threaded fasteners were transferred because I couldn’t produce them myself, and I couldn’t delay the court’s projects. However, hand-cranked hoists are not consumables, they can be reused, and I assure you I can supply enough for the Ministry of Works. You should also let me make some silver, I still rely on the Mechanical Workshop producing these items to make a living. Haven’t you always said that the court should not compete with the people for profit?"

The Emperor frowned and glanced at the ever composed Prince Fu before rebuking, "Look at you, what kind of appearance is that? Does the court really lack what you need to eat and wear?" Though he said this, he did not bring up the hand-cranked hoist again.

After discussing the specifics of the threaded fasteners and the lathe, it was decided to specifically assign an official in charge of this project. The Emperor waved his hand, dismissing Han Yanhui, Prince Fu, among others, and kept Jinrong for a private conversation.

As Prince Fu stood up, he glanced at Jinrong. Since the first court session the day before yesterday, Prince Yu had been lacking in spirit. How could others not know the uses of the hand-cranked hoist, when even he should be aware? Yet, he carelessly entrusted his advisors to take care of the matter, without showing his face and tried it out hastily. It was only because the Imperial Father had sent people that the trial results reached the Emperor so quickly.