Hu Xueyan wore an expression of deep thought; Zhu Wencong's words were clear enough: investing in Li Hongzhang would yield greater returns in the future.
Yet Zhu Wencong also mentioned men of integrity and men of finesse, speaking not just of Zuo Zongtang and Li Hongzhang, but of Hu Xueyan himself.
What kind of person ought he to be? Hu Xueyan fell into contemplation, always having regarded himself as someone who worked for the country and its people.
"Being able to serve under Minister Zuo is the greatest honor of my life!" Hu Xueyan made his choice, and he never regretted it.
Zhu Wencong revealed a contented smile; although he was the subject of much controversy in later generations, what historical figure isn't controversial!
Historically, Hu Xueyan went bankrupt and died embittered; the primary reason was the power struggle between Li Hongzhang and Zuo Zongtang, with Li Hongzhang emerging victorious in the end.
