The steward wasn't made of iron. Beaten to within an inch of his life, he had no choice but to confess everything.
As a Scholar, Mr. Zheng held a title and didn't have to bow before the County Magistrate. But while he could refuse to confess, the evidence he left behind was enough to seal his fate.
Steward Zheng was a crafty one. He had secretly hidden a letter handwritten by Mr. Zheng.
It was a letter Mr. Zheng had written to his son, who was studying in the Prefecture.
The letter stated that the Zhao family's son possessed exceptional talent and was certain to pass this examination. It also mentioned that the boy was mature for his age. Mr. Zheng wrote that he had acted ruthlessly toward the family years ago and feared the boy would seek revenge. Therefore, he concluded it was better to strike first with an unjust act and ensure the boy could never become a Scholar.
