Emperor Qing Shengzu was the second emperor in the Qing Dynasty. I decided to
have a talk with him about his experience so far as emperor, at this time he
was 16.
Me: Good afternoon Emperor Shengzu, how has your evening
been?
The Emperor: Oh well, I’ve
been looking up some things in the scroll room, I heard that there was a
recently published story put in there that was most exhilarating.
Me: That sounds like great fun Shengzu, if I may call
you that, but I had some more serious questions that I would like to talk to
you about if that is ok.
The Emperor: Sounds
great to me, what would you like to know?
Me: Well to start off with, how is it that you are
sixteen and the emperor? Does someone have to help you rule, or are you
considered old enough to know what is best for the kingdom?
The Emperor: Both good
questions, and I am glad you asked. Not many people dare to ask me that
question which really has such a simple answer, for they think it rude. You see
when I was a mere eight years old, my father became gravely ill. He realized
that I was to be emperor at a very young age, so he chose a few select
ministers to help me rule the country until I came of age. My father died February
5, 1661 and I became emperor twelve days later. Immediately after I became
Emperor, I noticed that one of the ministers was a little more held back than the
others. Ao Bai was his name, and I soon discovered his plot to take over the
throne. He had gathered a few henchmen as well, so as soon as I came of age I
removed him from his place in office. I came of age this year, to answer your
question, so I just recently was allowed to have full control over China.
Me: My goodness what a story! That certainly answered my
question, so where is this Ao Bai now? And his henchmen?
The Emperor: Well, as far as I know, not in this country anymore.
Like I said I got rid of them as soon as I could.
Me: Ah, very well next question. Actually before we get to that, you said
you were going to the Scroll Room, does that mean you are a big reader?
The Emperor: Well yes of course! Ever
since I was a kid I was fascinated by literature, and my tutor said I possessed
a great talent for it. Actually I have planned to compile all the Ming Shi into
one book. You know, all the teachings of the recent dynasties. Of course this
will take great time, and many talented scholars to write it. I might help
write it myself!
Me: Well that sounds like great fun, but we must move on. What do you plan
to do about the three provinces that are beginning to
revolt in the south?
The Emperor: Ah, the three Feudatories. Well
for right now everything is calm, the three governors who previously ruled the
provinces have retired, and there is word of a rebellion. If it gets out of
hand, I will certainly take care of it.
Me: I'm glad to hear it, well that’s all the time I have I’m afraid, thank
you for sharing with me.
The Emperor: No problem, thanks for
listening!
