Chapter 70
-----------------------------------------------------------------
Translator: 8uhl
Chapter: 70
Chapter Title: Signs of a Fissure
-----------------------------------------------------------------
In truth, not everyone in the British Empire was united in a depraved chorus of "We Are the World."
It was the British, after all, who first launched a massive campaign to abolish slavery.
It was Britain that abolished the slave trade and outlawed slavery itself.
And there were Britons who argued that no matter how desperate for money they were, selling a devil's substance like opium to another country was crossing a line.
Of course, this didn't erase the British Empire's dazzling depravity.
It was also the British who had conducted the slave trade on a scale unparalleled anywhere in the world, and it was none other than Britain that had driven countless people in the Qing Dynasty to addiction with opium.
It was a nation where light and darkness coexisted, but there was a reason the modern British Empire was known as the epitome of depravity.
When the weight of money and the weight of conscience clashed, the scales of the British Empire almost always tipped toward money rather than conscience.
Conscience usually won out only when the enterprise in question was a declining industry that no longer generated significant profit.
The abolition of slavery was a classic example.
When the slave trade was a goose laying golden eggs, people turned a deaf ear, even as a few conscientious individuals cried out that Black people were beings with reason and emotion.
Who cared if you had to ignore your conscience a few times when a mountain of money was rolling in?
Whether Black people died of disease or were treated like livestock, money was being printed endlessly.
The opium trade was no different.
There were voices suggesting that selling opium indiscriminately was perhaps not right, but the money flowing into their pockets was too substantial to heed such pangs of conscience.
Charles Elliot, the Chief Superintendent of Trade in China before my arrival, was one of those who agonized over this dilemma.
“So, in the end, the home government intends to continue selling opium to the Qing by any means necessary, and you, Minister, are in a position to faithfully carry out that decision.”
“Does that not sit well with you?”
“An official like me has no choice but to follow the policies set from above, so what importance does my personal judgment hold? I only hope that in the distant future, I am not remembered as a symbol of the era's lack of conscience.”
Just as my research in London had indicated, Charles Elliot was not particularly favorable toward the opium trade.
He had turned a blind eye to it as it was an important element of the British economy, but he had reportedly been witnessed making remarks expressing his personal disgust on numerous occasions.
His tendency to frown at the representatives of the opium merchants and his look of relief when I said I would take over his authority were likely due to this disposition.
From the moment I first received the report, I thought he was a suitable candidate for the plan. A few more prods should confirm it, shouldn't they?
“I fully understand your feelings, Superintendent. I, too, find it hard to suppress a smirk whenever I see William Jardine vehemently claiming that opium is less harmful than alcohol.”
“Ha! I wonder what he would say if all the alcohol he drinks were replaced with opium. If he were to actually inhale opium instead of alcohol in that situation, then I would acknowledge his claim.”
Even if scientific analysis wasn't yet widespread, the people of this era were not fools.
In the late 18th century, the harmful effects of opium had not been properly proven, but this was the early to mid-19th century.
Decades had passed since opium was mass-produced and sold, and millions of case studies had accumulated, allowing its effects to be observed.
While the concept of drug addiction had not been perfectly proven scientifically, the British upper class already knew from experience that narcotics addicted and destroyed people.
The reason they didn't publicize it was simple.
Proving that opium was harmful would be tantamount to Britain slitting the belly of its own golden-egg-laying goose.
*Is there any proof that opium is a drug that destroys people?*
*Opium is just like alcohol. The people of Qing are just lazy.*
As long as they kept insisting on this, the massive trade deficit with the Qing was offset by opium, so politicians were gritting their teeth and pretending not to know.
“Most politicians back home are aware of the evils of opium. That's why they regulate it, allowing it for medical use domestically but preventing a situation like in the Qing, where it's inhaled indiscriminately.”
“...I see. But well, even though I say this, I’ve done as the government commanded, so I’m in no position to blame others. If I truly had conviction, I could have just stormed out, declaring I wouldn't do such a dishonorable job, but I couldn't.”
“How can a man on the government's payroll openly defy orders just because he dislikes them? I understand completely. Which is why I’m telling you this…”
He was negative about the opium trade but couldn't give up his current position to make a scene—a man of middling disposition.
Some might criticize him for compromising with reality, but most people live their lives like Elliot.
Their conscience pricks them, but they cannot ignore the practical aspects, so they reluctantly follow orders.
And this type of person tends to follow your intentions obediently if you throw them a bait that will alleviate their guilt.
“If there is a way to maximize our country's interests without being criticized for committing a dishonorable act, don't you think that's the path we should take?”
“...Pardon? But didn't you say the home government has decided on a policy to resume the opium trade?”
“That is merely a policy, and I have already received permission to change that policy according to the situation on the ground before I came here. It means I can adjust our direction at will if I deem the situation urgent.”
“I-I see. But still, Minister, you are still qui—no, you are young, so wouldn't the risk of defying the Prime Minister or the party's directives be too great?”
He was beating around the bush, but what he meant was that he was too anxious to go against the home government's policy by trusting a young pup like me.
This cautious, everyman mindset—I rather like it.
“I’m telling you this because I hold your conscience in high regard, Superintendent, so think about it carefully. As you just said, do you really believe that a young pup like me could overturn the will of the Prime Minister or Parliament by claiming the situation on the ground is unfavorable, without having someone to back me up?”
“What? Do you mean to say you have a backer…?”
“Of course. You're not entirely ignorant of the political situation back home, so I'll be brief. You've heard of Charles Wellesley, son of His Grace the Duke of Wellington, haven't you? Everything I'm telling you now is part of a plan he has laid out.”
“Ah, the rumored Wellesley Faction?”
Wellesley, sleeping soundly in London, would probably jump out of his skin if he heard this, but what does it matter?
I told him in advance that I'd use his name freely if necessary, so he'll understand.
It just goes to show you should always befriend someone from a good family with a big name.
“Yes, a group of young, reform-minded, and conscientious members of parliament, all united. It's no exaggeration to say they are the future of the Tory Party. By the next election, you'll feel the center of the party shifting in this direction.”
“So you were part of the Wellesley Faction, Minister. I thought it was strange for someone so young to be appointed minister, no matter how capable and knowledgeable of the local situation, but it makes sense if a core faction of the Tory Party was backing you.”
“Indeed, that is the case. And our goal is to prioritize the British Empire's national interest while eliminating negative elements that could tarnish our dignity. Having observed you, Superintendent, I believe you are a man who could share our cause. What do you say? If you are willing to join us, I will tell you the detailed plan.”
“If I agree here, does that mean I also become a member of the Wellesley Faction?”
Asking about the rewards of joining was as good as saying he was already leaning my way.
Since I couldn't stay here after everything was over, there was no reason not to make good use of Elliot if he was competent enough.
“You can think of it that way. If things go well, we will need someone to remain here and carry out the duties of governor, and as a minister, I cannot stay here myself. That means the task must be entrusted to someone else, and a person who knows the local situation well, with proven character and ability, would be the first to be considered.”
“The next governor…”
He must have been under immense stress from having to look after the opium merchants. Now, he was being offered not only a way out but also the promise of the governorship?
If he refused this, I would have to suspect he had other ulterior motives.
I offered him a benevolent smile and extended my hand.
“What do you say? Are you inclined to accept my proposal?”
***
Just as the saying goes, "to catch the general, first shoot his horse," I, striving to play the part of Killian Gore struggling for a peaceful resolution, made contact with one of Lin Zexu's trusted aides.
To be precise, it wasn't I, but opium merchants like William Jardine and James Matheson who had desperately pulled strings and spent money to arrange this meeting.
I hadn't expected much, but the fact that they succeeded in summoning the very person I had pointed out was perhaps worthy of praise.
It seemed they were sincere when they said they were working desperately for their own sakes.
“It is a pleasure to meet you. My name is Yang Cheng-yuan. Should I address you as Minister?”
“Of course. First, I would like to express my gratitude to you, the man known as the Governor's right hand, for so readily agreeing to meet.”
“‘Right hand’ is too high a praise. And since the Governor also wishes to build a good relationship with you, Minister, it would be improper for me, his subordinate, to refuse the invitation. By the way, your command of the Qing language is truly impressive. Anyone who didn't know better might mistake you for a native of Beijing. Are you certain you have never stayed in Beijing?”
“Hahaha, now that is an overstatement. I would like to visit someday if the opportunity arises, but unfortunately, I have never had the chance to stay in Beijing.”
“Then you have never been to the Qing Dynasty at all? Have you stayed in Joseon this whole time?”
Aha. So that was why he had agreed to meet so readily, despite the efforts of Jardine and Matheson. He was here to dig into my background.
It was understandable. A Western barbarian who looked nothing like an East Asian being so fluent in the Qing language and claiming to be born in Joseon must have been perplexing.
Considering that provoking such questions was my objective, this was proof that things were going quite well.
“While staying in Joseon, I heard and learned much about the political situation in Asia. I never knew my childhood experiences would be so helpful. I suppose you never know where life will take you.”
“How was your time in Joseon? Did they treat you favorably, despite your different appearance? I worry you may have had some unpleasant experiences, as Joseon is known to be a rather closed society.”
That was certainly true. Now, I could just curse them as pathetic fools and move on, but at the time, it had been quite difficult for me too.
But that was then, and of course, I didn't reveal my true feelings.
The intention behind such a question was obviously to gauge how favorably I viewed the country where I grew up. Why would I give him the right answer?
On the contrary, I should tell him the opposite of the truth to create confusion.
“Fortunately, I had almost no unpleasant experiences. Everyone was kind and treated me well. Thanks to them, even after returning to my home country, I came to harbor the desire to one day become a bridge between the British Empire and Joseon.”
“Ah, I see. But as you surely know, Joseon is a tributary state that offers tribute to our country.”
“I am well aware. Do not worry. This is not to say that the British Empire will ignore the Qing Dynasty and exert influence over Joseon. It is merely a simple wish for the British Empire, the Qing, and Joseon to all get along well together.”
“I see. As expected of someone well-versed in our culture, your ability to accurately grasp and judge the situation is remarkable.”
Look at him, getting all flustered as soon as Joseon is mentioned, a true representative of the Sinocentric mindset.
He must be terrified that we might try to stake a claim on Joseon, isn't he?
“Hahaha, that must be why the home government trusts me and appointed me as the chief representative on the ground. I will do my utmost to ensure that the peace of this Orient, where I spent my childhood, is not broken. So, I would be grateful if you would convey my words to the Governor.”
“I am truly relieved to have confirmed your sincere intentions, Minister. I will relay everything we discussed today to the Governor, so please do not worry.”
Yang Cheng-yuan continued to ask roundabout questions several times to delve deeper into my relationship with Joseon.
Each time, I responded with falsehoods that were about a million light-years away from the truth, and each time, a shadow of unconcealable anxiety flickered in Yang Cheng-yuan's eyes.
If Joseon, one of the Qing's most important tributary states, were to establish a direct line to the British Empire through me as an intermediary, that in itself would likely cause problems.
He must be worried, right? He's probably suspicious too.
But unfortunately, once a fire of suspicion is lit, it does not easily die down.
Especially if someone is constantly fanning the flames and throwing firewood on it from the side, it will burn even more fiercely.
Just like the old saying, "suspicion gives birth to ghosts in the dark."
If you endlessly worry and suspect, ghosts will appear where there were none. That is how suspicion, feeding on baseless anxiety, grows endlessly in size.
As Yang Cheng-yuan left the room after our long conversation, his face, contrary to the amicable tone of our discussion, was a mask of complex emotions.
***
*Gather every piece of information on Killian Gore, no matter how trivial.*
Yang Cheng-yuan faithfully carried out the order from Lin Zexu, but the more he did, the more his head spun.
A British minister, born in Joseon.
Furthermore, from what he had heard, Killian seemed to view Joseon quite favorably.
If that was Killian's view, there was a high probability that Joseon felt similarly.
If he were a British decision-maker, he would surely not fail to utilize such a prime candidate.
No, not utilizing him would be tantamount to admitting incompetence in politics or diplomacy.
However, from their perspective, they could never allow such a thing to happen.
If it were merely about trade, it might be different, but common sense dictated it would not end there.
The closer Joseon got to the British, the more likely the Qing's influence would weaken, which meant the celestial order could be shaken…
“Master Yang! I have something urgent to tell you!”
“...?”
As he was lost in thought and about to return to Lin Zexu, a middle-aged British official, accompanied by an interpreter, called out to him.
Wondering who it was, he looked closer and recognized the man.
He was the one who had served as the British chief representative on the ground before Killian Gore's appointment and had held several meetings with the previous governor.
His name was Charles Elliot, if he remembered correctly.
He remembered him as someone who, unlike the opium merchants who deserved to be torn limb from limb, had at least a shred of conscience.
But in the end, he was still a Briton who had refused to budge from his position of protecting the opium merchants, and as a result, he had achieved almost no diplomatic success.
He wondered why such a man was seeking him out now, but before Yang Cheng-yuan could react, Elliot closed the distance.
“I apologize for the intrusion. But I could not bear it any longer, so I have come to tell you the truth.”
“...The truth?”
He was already feeling uneasy, and Elliot's ominous words only made him feel worse.
Seeing his expression darken, Elliot quickly had the interpreter relay his words.
“Someone might be watching, so I'll get straight to the point. Don't you find it strange? I was removed from my position for being too considerate of the Qing's position, yet my successor is now saying he will resolve the issue in the way the Governor desires.”
“What are you trying to say…?”
“Although I am a man of the British Empire, you all know that I was not very positive about the opium trade. If you investigate when you return, you will find that my words are not false.”
Whether it was resentment for being pushed out of his position as chief representative, or the last stirrings of his conscience, he didn't know.
But Elliot clearly articulated the concerns Yang Cheng-yuan had felt while talking with Killian.
“You must not believe the face Killian shows you. The Prime Minister and Parliament sent him here as the person in charge for one reason only: to completely neutralize the Qing so that the opium trade can be resumed without any restrictions.”
“...”
“The very act of appointing Killian, who is fluent not only in the Qing language but also in the languages of Joseon and Japan, as the man on the ground is already... Damn it, I'm being watched already. It seems I'm not trusted very much either.”
Elliot, in the middle of speaking, spotted a man approaching in the distance and hastily bowed his head and retreated.
“If you don't believe me, judge for yourself. See whether Britain's current response is logical and reasonable.”
Yang Cheng-yuan stood there for a while, dazed, watching Elliot's back as he scurried away as if to avoid being seen.
He hadn't heard the end, but it wasn't difficult to guess what he had been about to say.
*So... the British didn't give up selling opium because they were pushed by our firm resolve?*
In the end, it meant that what they really wanted was to pretend to follow their wishes while secretly creating a situation that would lead to their collapse.
It was hard to believe at first glance, but given the circumstances, it had a strange ring of truth to it.
And if this was true, then their promise to stop selling opium could not be trusted at all.
No, it was almost certain they were continuing to sell opium behind their backs.
“This is no time to stand around. I must report this to the Governor as quickly as possible.”
There was no proof yet.
But the thought that he might have just learned of a grand conspiracy that could threaten the very foundation of the Qing Dynasty made Yang Cheng-yuan's heart pound faster than ever before.