The Recommendation of the Great Sage Li Chunfeng

As the imperial examination approached, the winter streets of Chang’an saw the arrival of many scholars from across the realm. The influx of these students imbued the city with a rich cultural atmosphere. Some gathered in small groups to drink wine, compose poetry, and exchange verses; others wandered the markets, seeking to understand the lives of the common folk. There were even those who frequently organized grand poetry gatherings, drawing large crowds in hopes of attracting attention.

Their purpose was straightforward: each hoped his talents would catch the eye of some influential official, who might then take him on as a retainer.

Li Zhi, too, sent Liu An and his men throughout Chang’an to gather information on these literati, hoping to recruit a few outstanding individuals for his own literary academy. Unfortunately, despite Liu An’s many attempts, his efforts yielded nothing.

The core issue lay in the nature of the academy itself. Li Zhi’s vision was not to recruit only scholars, but to welcome talented individuals from all professions. His ambition was to use these people as a foundation for advancing the technological progress of the Great Tang in every field.

However, this idea was out of step with the spirit of the times. Those scholars who aspired to enter officialdom through the examination scorned the idea of associating with men skilled in practical trades but lacking in literary achievement. Meanwhile, those with practical skills, due to their humble backgrounds, dared not present themselves at the academy.

Thus, while others benefited from recruiting only scholars and gained some results, Li Zhi’s doors remained quiet, leaving him in an awkward position.

When Li Zhi first proposed this idea, Fang Xuanling and Zhangsun Wuji both advised him against it. They felt his plan was unrealistic and would offend the scholars of the realm, making them avoid him. Yet Li Zhi insisted on his course, and when their advice fell on deaf ears, the two withdrew from the matter. In their eyes, the prince was still young; once he suffered a setback and gained new understanding, it would not be too late to seek out retainers then.

Just as Li Zhi was growing anxious over his lack of recruits, one morning the gatekeeper came to announce an unexpected visitor: Assistant Director Li Chunfeng of the Bureau of Astronomy wished to see him.

Li Zhi started at the news, then slapped his own forehead and exclaimed, “How could I have forgotten such a brilliant man!”

Liu An, surprised, asked, “Your Highness is acquainted with Master Li?”

Li Zhi replied, “Master Li is not only proficient in astronomy, but also accomplished in mathematics. How could I not know of him?”

Liu An, puzzled, said, “I have never heard of any notable achievements attributed to him.”

Li Zhi shot him a glance and retorted, “That is simply because you are ignorant.” Then, quickly regaining his composure, he instructed Liu An, “Go and invite him in immediately. Be courteous and make sure he feels welcome.”

With a look of confusion, Liu An departed to carry out the order, and soon returned leading Li Chunfeng into the hall.

Li Zhi stepped forward and exchanged courteous bows with his guest, then invited him to sit.

Li Zhi began, “I have long heard of your great talent, Master Li, but have regrettably not had the fortune to meet you until today. It is truly a pleasure.”

Li Chunfeng, flustered, rose and replied, “Your Highness is too kind. I am unworthy of such praise.”

Li Zhi motioned for him to be seated and inquired, “May I ask what brings you here today?”

Li Chunfeng replied, “To speak frankly, Your Highness, I have come to recommend a colleague to your attention.”

Li Zhi smiled, “And who is this esteemed gentleman?”

Li Chunfeng answered, “His name is Yuan Tiangang, currently magistrate of Huojing (present-day Qionglai, Sichuan). He is skilled in mathematics and the study of celestial phenomena.”

At the mention of Yuan Tiangang, Li Zhi was momentarily stunned. Though his knowledge of history was limited, he recognized the names of many illustrious figures. To learn that both these remarkable men were his contemporaries was a delightful shock.

Li Chunfeng, seeing Li Zhi’s silence, thought perhaps the prince was uninterested. Embarrassed, he added, “I have only heard that Your Highness is recruiting talent without regard to convention, so I ventured to make this recommendation. If it does not please you, then think no more of it.”

Li Zhi, anxious to lose such an opportunity, blurted out, “I am most interested! Delighted, in fact!”

To let a man of such talent slip away would be a regret for a lifetime.

Li Chunfeng was taken aback by Li Zhi’s enthusiasm, and for a moment lost his composure.

Li Zhi, a bit embarrassed, explained, “I have lately been studying mathematics and astronomy myself. Master Li’s recommendation is most timely.”

Li Chunfeng, collecting himself, replied, “If that is so, I will write a letter to introduce him to Your Highness.”

Li Zhi rose with joy and saluted him, “Then allow me to thank you in advance, Master Li.”

Li Chunfeng returned the gesture, “Your Highness need not be so formal. I am only doing what little I can. As for the outcome, I dare not promise success.”

Li Zhi could not help but feel a little nervous. A man like Yuan Tiangang might well be unwilling to serve a prince whose years were so few. He frowned in thought, considering what he might offer to attract such a man.

Soon, he recalled the telescope and a newly compiled treatise on higher mathematics in his possession. Both were extraordinary inventions—priceless treasures for anyone devoted to astronomy and mathematics.

Having made up his mind, he looked to Li Chunfeng and said, “I possess two items that may be of use to you and Master Yuan; perhaps you could mention them to him.”

Li Chunfeng, curious, asked, “Might I inquire what these items are? Could I have a look?”

Li Zhi replied, “Certainly.” He turned to Liu An and instructed, “Fetch a telescope and a mathematics book for Master Li to examine.”

Liu An acknowledged the order and departed.

Li Zhi then asked, “May I ask, Master Li, what you are currently working on? Is there anything I might assist you with?”

Li Chunfeng replied, “I would not dare trouble Your Highness. I am presently engaged, by order of His Majesty, in improving the armillary sphere.”

Li Zhi’s interest was piqued. “Is this the instrument that observes the stars above and measures time below?”

Li Chunfeng replied, “Once completed, it will indeed serve both functions.”

Li Zhi said, “Then I must come to see it for myself when it is finished. I hope to gain some insight from it.”

Li Chunfeng smiled, “Your Highness is known for your wisdom; I am sure you will discern much. I hope you will offer your guidance when the time comes.”

Li Zhi waved his hand with a laugh, “You are too generous, Master Li. I am but a novice in these matters and would not presume to instruct you.”

As they spoke, Liu An returned carrying the requested items.

Li Zhi first took up the telescope and presented it to Li Chunfeng. “This device allows one to see both near and far. I believe it will greatly benefit your observations of the heavens.”