"If the method of making glass is spread out, it will not let the common people earn money, but rather allow officials and wealthy merchants to make money."
However, Yang Zhenshan did not argue with him. Arguing with a civil servant - isn't that asking for trouble?
The others would quote classics and cite authorities; something Yang Zhenshan certainly couldn't do!
Thus, he spoke up, "Your servant believes Mr. Luo is right, competing with the people for profit is not good. Your servant thinks that the glassmaking secret should be entrusted to merchants to manage!"
"..."
The entire court, both civil and military officials, looked at Yang Zhenshan in astonishment.
Wasn't it you who proposed the establishment of the Imperial Commerce Bureau?
Why are you opposing it now?
If the glassmaking secret is passed on to the merchants, then what's the point of establishing the Imperial Commerce Bureau?
