The Vice Prefect of Jinan, Magistrate Wu, was known for his unyielding integrity. In those days, it was a common corruption in the bureaucracy: if a subordinate embezzled funds or ran the treasury account short, the superior officer would invariably cover for them. Not only would they refrain from investigation, but they would often personally settle the deficit, distributing the loss among the other officials. On one occasion, his superior brought up the matter and demanded Wu’s share. Wu adamantly refused to contribute, which enraged the superior, who proceeded to scold him repeatedly.

Magistrate Wu retorted sharply, stating, "Though my position is humble, I was nevertheless appointed by the Imperial Court. You may impeach me if you wish, but you have no right to verbally abuse me. If I am to die, so be it; I will never deplete the Imperial salary to repay the dirty money of corrupt officials." Upon hearing this, his superior realized the man’s resolve was unshakable and could only placate him with soft words, letting the matter drop.

At that time, in Gaoyuan County, there was a scholar named Mu Qinghuai who had become possessed by a fox spirit. When conversing with people about current affairs, he spoke with great fervor. Someone asked him, “Since the Fox Immortal is omniscient, how many officials are there in the city of Jinan?” Scholar Mu replied, “Only one.” Everyone burst into laughter and asked for an explanation. Scholar Mu said, “Although the Jinan Prefecture has seventy-two officials of various ranks, the only one truly acting on behalf of the people is Vice Prefect Wu.”

……………… ……………… ………………

The Prefect of Tai'an, Old Mister Zhang, possessed a steadfast character and was rigorously honest, earning him the nickname "The Peg." At that time, officials frequently made pilgrimages to Mount Tai, charging the populace for all expenses related to carriages, horses, food, and lodging. The common people, unable to bear the exploitation, complained bitterly. After taking office, Old Mister Zhang abolished this draconian practice, ceasing to levy any tribute upon the citizenry. When some officials, lacking insight, demanded sacrificial pigs and sheep from him, Old Mister Zhang roared, "I am the pig, and I am the sheep. Slaughter me and treat your lackeys to a feast." The officials could only offer wry smiles, not daring to press the matter further.

Old Mister Zhang served as an official away from home, separated from his wife for twelve years. Upon his arrival in Tai'an, his wife and son came for a visit, and they enjoyed a joyful reunion. After six or seven days, his wife calmly remarked, "You have been an official for so many years, yet you remain as poor as before. Why have you never thought about your descendants?" Old Mister Zhang flew into a rage, seizing a wooden staff, prepared to strike his wife. His son pleaded desperately, offering to take the punishment in his mother's stead. Old Mister Zhang beat him soundly before finally relenting.

His wife was deeply resentful and immediately took their son and returned home. As she left, she vowed, "You old brute, you are so heartless; even if you die, I will never see you again." It was spoken in anger, yet it proved to be a prophecy. A year later, Old Mister Zhang did, in fact, pass away. (The Peg, meaning a pointed wooden stake.)