Scholars in the courtyard.

Chapter 2457 Studying the locomotive together
Sijiucheng

The sun is shining brightly, scorching the earth.

After a rain, the day became even hotter and humider.

Yang Xiaotao raised his head and avoided the sun with his eyes, then sneezed twice in a row, then walked aside and rubbed his nose.

"This guy Lao Li, he must be still awake."

Liu Huaimin asked with concern.

"Who knows!"

Yang Xiaotao was also unsure. Logically, he should have come by now, but it was almost ten o'clock and he hadn't come yet. It didn't make sense.

"coming."

Liu Huaimin suddenly shouted, and then he saw a jeep driving in from the gate, followed by two cars.

"Forget about this guy Lao Li. Don't wait for him."

Yang Xiaotao said this and hurried forward with Liu Huaimin.

When the car stopped, we saw Old Xia jumping out of the jeep. The smile on his face was so bright that even the sun above his head was dimmed by three points.

"Mr. Xia."

Yang Xiaotao hurried forward to greet him, and then saw Mr. Huang getting out of the car behind him, "Mr. Huang."

"Xiao Tao, not bad!"

Mr. Huang walked up and patted Yang Xiaotao on the shoulder, his eyes full of concern.

This was not the end yet. From the last car, Mr. Wang and Mr. Qin got out, one on the left and one on the right. However, their expressions were not as good as those of the first two.

"Mr. Wang, Mr. Qin, please come in quickly."

Yang Xiaotao and Liu Huaimin invited the four people into the conference room. They were sweating in the sun outside, but after entering the conference room, the cool air from the air conditioner made them feel refreshed.

“This is a watermelon fresh out of the water.”

After Yang Xiaotao and his friends sat down, Liu Lixue came in carrying a large plate with sliced ​​watermelon on it.

When Old Xia saw it, he didn't hesitate to pick up a piece and took a bite. "Mm, so sweet and refreshing."

Huang Lao was not polite. He picked up a piece and started to eat it. While eating, he greeted, "Lao Wang, Lao Qin, don't be polite. Eat it quickly. It's so hot. Eat a piece of cool watermelon to quench your thirst."

suck
As he spoke, Mr. Huang finished eating a long piece of watermelon and then picked up another piece.

Seeing this, Mr. Wang also reached out and took two pieces directly, and so did Mr. Qin.

However, Wang Lao looked at Yang Xiaotao with a look of resentment, "Alas, this is the difference between relatives and strangers."

"Last time we came, no one turned on the air conditioner, and no one gave us watermelon to eat."

"Old Huang, you guys are lucky. Whenever you come to say hello to me, I'll just come along and get some food and drinks."

As he spoke, he elbowed Old Qin beside him twice, but his eyes were fixed on Yang Xiaotao without blinking.

However, Yang Xiaotao has seen the world. Although it is a bit strange to be stared at by an old man, everyone's skin is gradually thickened.

Once you get used to it, you can deal with it with a smile.

"Yes, we begged and pleaded, and spent a lot of effort. In the end, we gave people and supplies, and finally we had a sip of soup."

"But some people, even if they do nothing, can still have a piece of meat fall from the sky. It's really different fates for different people."

"Lao Wang, from now on you must not only follow me, but also try to curry favor with me."

As Mr. Qin spoke, he also looked at Yang Xiaotao.

They received reliable intelligence yesterday that the Ninth Department was making another big move.

According to reliable intelligence analysis, the machine being made this time is a machine that can cut through mountains and dig holes, called a tunnel boring machine.

So, those who got the news began to collect relevant information.

The news that came one after another made them realize that the future of this tunnel boring machine is definitely to the sea.

While I was shocked by the endless stream of good things in the nine books, I also felt a little bit of anticipation.

Whoever gets this thing won't have to worry about food for at least the next twenty years. If the business develops well, it will definitely be a stable job.

Even if it's just cooperation, it's enough for them to have enough food to eat.

Later, more news came that after the superiors learned about the shield machine, they took it very seriously. There were even rumors that once it was confirmed to be true, special subsidies would be allocated and a special project team would be set up to specialize in the production of shield machines.

After hearing the news, how could they sit still? They all went to the Ninth Department to find Yang Xiaotao to maintain their relationship.

But before they arrived at the Ninth Ministry, another piece of news came that Yang Xiaotao from the Ninth Ministry had cooperated with the First Ministry of Machine Building.

Upon hearing this, everyone beat their feet and stamped their chests in great annoyance.

At the same time, some people were upset and couldn't help but curse, asking why Huang Daya always got all the good things.

Hearing the two people complaining, Yang Xiaotao and Liu Huaimin ate melons silently without saying a word.

Today they are just children, and with their parents around, there is no need for them to speak.

Sure enough, as soon as Mr. Wang and Mr. Huang finished their words, Mr. Huang, as the head of the family, threw the green melon rind aside and said, "Go away, you two still have the nerve to talk like that."

"You are old, but you are not serious in front of this young man."

"You are so sarcastic. It's good enough to give you two watermelons. If you don't eat them, give them to me. I haven't had enough yet."

"Pull you down!"

Old Wang rolled his eyes and started to eat. Old Qin was not to be outdone and ate up the two pieces of watermelon in just a few bites. He then glanced at Yang Xiaotao and finally at Old Huang, "You've taken advantage of me and you still want to eat it all by yourself. You're not the type to do that!"

At the side, Old Xia wiped his mouth and said, "Old Qin, if anyone is taking advantage, it's you!"

"Let's not talk about the machine tools at the beginning, but the aircraft engines and the aircraft this time. Who do you think got the biggest advantage?"

After hearing this, Mr. Qin stopped talking immediately.

When others take advantage of you, that is called taking advantage of your own family, or to put it in a positive way, it is called filial piety.

But this is a bargain for me, then it is really a bargain!
Mr. Huang also smiled and said, "I think the watermelon has been eaten. If you two don't have anything to do, go get busy!"

"Don't run around all day without working. It will have a bad influence on your subordinates if they see you!"

After hearing this, Mr. Qin turned his body and said with his head tilted, "I came here to check the progress of aircraft development."

Mr. Wang also added, “Let me take a look at the computer research situation!”

Hearing this, Mr. Huang sneered, "Oh, you? You know anything about computers!"

"It's none of your business. We already know someone there."

After saying this, Mr. Wang sat back on the chair without moving.

Seeing this, Mr. Huang and Mr. Xia didn't waste any more words and started chatting with Yang Xiaotao and Liu Huaimin.

"Have you read the document issued by the higher-ups?"

Yang Xiaotao nodded, "We didn't expect it to be taken so seriously!"

"But this also shows that this matter is urgent and we need to set up the framework as soon as possible."

Mr. Huang and Mr. Xia both nodded after hearing this. They did not expect such a big reaction from their superiors.

Meanwhile, Mr. Wang and Mr. Qin on the side pricked up their ears. They both wanted to know how much support their superiors had given.

Huang Lao pondered for a moment before speaking, "Not only must this be done, but the quality and quantity must be guaranteed. Now many domestic lines are being operated, and many line sections are being constructed at the same time."

“Although there has been considerable progress in recent years, it is still a bit slow compared to the total amount of projects.”

"What it means is that we should complete the samples as soon as possible before the end of the year, enter the experimental stage as much as possible, and then go into mass production."

"So, what I meant to Lao Xia is to organize the factory as soon as possible, select capable personnel, and concentrate on production."

After Mr. Huang finished speaking, Mr. Xia continued, "There is a machinery manufacturing plant in Xishan. The original idea was to produce ship propellers. The technical capabilities are good. I talked to Mr. Li and asked him to improve that manufacturing plant and use it as the main force for the production of shield machines this time."

Yang Xiaotao and Yang Xiaotao had no objection to Mr. Xia's arrangement. Originally, this matter was handed over to the First Ministry of Machine Building, but their superiors' excessive attention forced them to complete the cooperation as soon as possible.

"We will send professionals to assist. We will inform you of relevant requirements in advance and prepare for them."

"If you have difficulty with the money, we can also provide corresponding support."

After saying this, both Mr. Wang and Mr. Qin moved their buttocks, a little restless. They were definitely actively seeking cooperation, just for that little bit of funding, but they were willing to sacrifice their reputation.

Now, when it came to the Ministry of First Machine Building's turn, they actually started to pay for it.

Old Wang couldn't help but curse in his heart.

But after Yang Xiaotao finished speaking, Old Xia shook his head and added, "That's not necessary."

"I discussed it with Lao Huang. The three million allocated by the superiors is enough for us to use. Besides, we don't need this much. You can keep the money and do your own things."

"Of course, if we encounter technical difficulties, we will still contact you."

Hearing what Elder Xia said, Elder Qin's face looked a little embarrassed.

But when I think about the size of the First Ministry of Machine Building, I feel that what they said is right.

They are from the Ministry of Machine Building, so they have money.

Second only to the ninth one.

More importantly, the gap between these two is getting bigger and bigger.

This time, the higher authorities have allocated another three million yuan specifically for the manufacture of the tunnel boring machine. It will definitely be a treasure trove.

Thinking of this, Mr. Wang and Mr. Qin looked at each other and saw each other's helplessness.

Two rich guys get together, how should they play?
"Okay, I'll have someone get ready to go after the meeting is over."

Yang Xiaotao finally said that Pang Guo had already thoroughly understood the design drawings of the shield machine at this time. As for the requirements on the design drawings, they still needed to enter the factory and carry out work to confirm them.

Yang Xiaotao said this, and both Mr. Huang and Mr. Xia nodded in satisfaction.

"I heard that you are planning to build a hospital? Are you having some difficulties?"

After finishing the business, Mr. Huang suddenly asked.

Yang Xiaotao glanced at Liu Huaimin, who quickly told him about the difficulties he had encountered. They were mainly the same as what Wang Guodong had mentioned, that medical equipment was limited, and everyone had their own job, so there was nothing anyone could do.

"Why didn't you tell me about this earlier?"

Old Xia pulled at the collar of his clothes and said, "We just happen to have a batch of medical equipment ready for replacement. If you want them, you can come first. Our old ones can still be used."

Liu Huaimin immediately thanked him, "That's great. We were still having a headache, and this solves our urgent problem."

Huang Lao waved his hands in dissatisfaction, "If you encounter difficulties in the future, you must tell us. If you don't tell us, how can we know?"

"There is strength in numbers. It's better to speak up and work together to find a solution than to keep silent on your own."

Yang Xiaotao and his friend were very happy to accept Mr. Huang's "criticism and education". They humbly asked for advice and then looked at Mr. Wang and Mr. Qin who were sitting next to them.

The room suddenly became quiet, and Mr. Wang and Mr. Qin looked a little nervous.

The two of them came here just to watch the show, why is it involving them?

At the same time, I feel a little regretful. I should not have come here if I had known.

Even if we ask them to be as generous and magnanimous as the First Ministry of Machine Building, they still cannot be magnanimous.

Elder Wang turned his head away and said, "You old foxes, don't look at me. We don't even have our own hospital in the Seventh Department."

"Of course, if you are willing to support me, I don't mind. Let's build the Seventh Hospital right away."

Elder Wang felt bitter, and Elder Qin simply spread his hands and said, "Don't look at me. I can't make the decision either."

Huang Lao glanced at the two of them and said, "I knew you had no hope."

Upon hearing this, Mr. Wang and Mr. Qin did not refute, but could only sit there with unhappy expressions.

Yang Xiaotao quickly tried to smooth things over and asked Liu Lixue to clean up the scene. He then served tea and started talking about other things.

The atmosphere in the conference room finally eased.

Everyone started chatting, but every three sentences they talked about were facts, and they ended up talking about tunnel boring machines and the Olympics.

Just as lunch time was approaching, there was a knock on the door of the conference room.

Everyone was stunned, and then Liu Lixue hurried forward to open the door.

When the door opened, Li Hongfeng walked in first, but everyone's eyes fell on the person behind Li Hongfeng.

When Mr. Huang and his companions saw the person coming, they immediately stood up from their chairs and walked forward to him in a friendly manner.

"Old Huang, long time no see."

The old man was tall and thin, with white hair, a wrinkled face, and a very loud voice.

As he spoke, he stretched out his hand, and Mr. Huang quickly reached out and shook it.

"Mr. Wu, long time no see."

After saying that, Old Xia, Old Wang and the other two also came forward to greet the old man. It was obvious that they were old acquaintances, and this man should be older than Old Huang, and he spoke very politely.

After the three people met, the man turned his gaze to Yang Xiaotao who was standing beside him.

At this time, Li Hongfeng quickly and simply explained the old man's identity.

Yang Xiaotao and Liu Huaimin immediately took it seriously.

This Mr. Wu is in charge of the existence of the national railways.

Although he is a deputy, his status is no lower than that of Mr. Huang.

You know, this department was established earlier than the Ministry of First Machine Building of Mr. Huang.

And it also occupies a huge weight in the country.

Yang Xiaotao glanced at Li Hongfeng, and only then did he realize that he was not alone.

This background is usually kept secret, but at critical moments, it can really help by asking the big guys to come and help.

Thinking about Li Hongfeng's hard work over the years, it will definitely not be in vain.

"Hello, Mr. Wu."

The old man looked over and Yang Xiaotao hurried forward to greet him.

"Okay, okay, I heard about it a long time ago. The Red Star Machinery Factory is doing very well, and the Ninth Department is also very good."

"After hearing Xiao Li talk about this incident, I couldn't help but want to come over and take a look."

At this point, Mr. Wu smiled at Mr. Huang and the others and said, "I am just visiting you without any prior notice. I hope I am not disturbing your meeting."

Mr. Huang immediately shook his head, "No, no, we were just chatting together, you came at the right time."

Mr. Wang also said, "We were just planning to have dinner here, and it's a good opportunity for you to have a drink."

Old Qin was also trying to persuade him with a smile, but Old Wu just waved his hand and said, "No, no, the doctor said that drinking alcohol is harmful to your health."

"You are not allowed to drink."

But Mr. Huang immediately said, "If you don't drink, you will be sad."

Hearing this, Mr. Wu laughed out loud, "You're right, I thought so too."

Several people also laughed. Yang Xiaotao took the opportunity to wink at Liu Lixue, who immediately went out to make arrangements.

After laughing, Mr. Wu looked at Yang Xiaotao again, sizing him up and nodding.

Yang Xiaotao felt a little embarrassed being stared at. Huang Lao and Xia Lao around him didn't say anything. Anyone with a discerning eye could see that this person was coming for the Ninth Division.

Moreover, it seems that he is looking for Yang Xiaotao.

"Mr. Wu, please sit down."

Yang Xiaotao felt a little uncomfortable being looked at by Mr. Wu, so he quickly stepped forward and helped the old man sit down.

Mr. Wu sat aside with a smile, and then he spoke, "I came here this time, firstly, with Xiao Li, to thank you for making the shield machine."

"Mr. Wu, you are too kind. This is what we should do."

Mr. Wu smiled and nodded. "Good boy, you are the seed of our revolution. If you have any difficulties in the future, tell Xiao Li. We railway workers know how to be grateful the most."

Yang Xiaotao smiled when he heard this, but Huang and Xia looked at each other and smiled as if they understood what he meant.

"The second one is, I came here this time because I want to cooperate with you to study the locomotive together. I wonder if you agree or not."