Liu Yong (1719-1804), born into a family of virtuous officials, was a renowned figure in the Qing Dynasty. His family legacy of integrity earned the trust of emperors Yongzheng and Qianlong. After his father, Liu Tongxun, passed away, Emperor Qianlong lamented the loss of a trusted aide and placed even greater reliance on Liu Yong. Liu Yong entered government service in 1751 after passing the imperial examination, and the emperor frequently praised and promoted him for his diligence and wisdom.
One evening, Emperor Qianlong was strolling near the Meridian Gate of the Forbidden City when he noticed a section of the royal pathway leading to Zhengyang Gate was severely worn. Viewing the crumbling road as a disgrace to the imperial image, he decided it must be repaired. He entrusted the project to He Kun, a high-ranking official, instructing him to present a budget and complete the repairs within two months.
A suspiciously swift renovation
Three days later, during the morning court session, He Kun submitted a report stating that the road was beyond simple repair and needed a complete overhaul. Claiming that the stone materials had to be sourced from quarries hundreds of miles away and intricately carved, he estimated the cost at 100,000 taels of silver. Without hesitation, Emperor Qianlong approved the budget.
Soon, construction began, with work crews toiling day and night. Surprisingly, the project was completed in less than a month. The newly paved pathway was pristine, and Emperor Qianlong, accompanied by He Kun, inspected the work. Delighted by the results, the emperor rewarded He Kun with a promotion and 10,000 taels of silver.
Unknown to the emperor, He Kun had orchestrated a scheme. Instead of sourcing new materials, he had the existing stones flipped and lightly recarved. The roadbed was leveled before the stones were re-laid, creating the appearance of a brand-new pathway. The entire project cost a mere 10,000 taels, leaving He Kun with a hefty surplus.
Liu Yong’s clever ruse
Liu Yong soon uncovered He Kun’s deception and decided to expose it publicly. During the next court session, Liu entered the Hall of Supreme Harmony wearing his court robes inside-out — a highly unusual and punishable offense. His peculiar attire immediately caught Emperor Qianlong’s attention, and He Kun, noticing this breach of protocol, smugly called out Liu Yong, hoping to embarrass him.
When the emperor questioned Liu Yong, he feigned embarrassment and left to correct his clothing. Upon returning, he knelt and addressed the emperor:
“Your Majesty, I made a mistake by wearing my robes inside-out, for which I seek your forgiveness. However, this mistake is apparent at a glance. Yet graver offenses are happening under our noses that are far less obvious. Someone has flipped the stones of the royal pathway and merely polished their undersides, yet claims to have completed an entirely new road. Such deceit involves embezzlement on a grand scale.”
The court fell silent as the emperor’s expression darkened.
Confronting the corruption
Emperor Qianlong demanded an explanation from He Kun, who could no longer deny his actions. He admitted to flipping and recarving the stones, spending only 10,000 taels while pocketing the remainder. Furious, the emperor rebuked He Kun, but stopped short of severe punishment due to their close relationship. Instead, he ordered He Kun to return the embezzled funds and his reward to the treasury. Additionally, He Kun was demoted and was required to personally fund the reconstruction of the pathway according to the original plan.
Liu Yong’s strategic approach not only dismantled He Kun’s corrupt scheme, but also reinforced the necessity for vigilance and accountability within the imperial court. His actions exemplify how intelligence and integrity can effectively combat wrongdoing, ensuring that justice remains upheld even among the highest ranks of power.
Translated by Chua BC
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