Henry Foster shook his head and said, “Secretary Parker, it’s not that serious. My opinion remains the same: emancipating the mind and strictly guarding against the spread of bourgeois liberalization are two aspects of the same issue, not mutually exclusive contradictions. In our specific economic development work, we need to free our minds and boldly experiment. But in the realm of ideology, in terms of national beliefs, we must have our own unwavering principles and persistence. What we need to learn from are the advanced market models, management concepts, and business philosophies of developed Western countries—not their ideologies or political systems. It’s right to throw out a brick to attract jade, but if you throw out jade to attract bricks, that’s wrong.”

Mason Parker gave a light “hmph” and said, “Anyone can talk theory.”

But reality is not so simple.

In fact, Mason Parker’s actions had already been seen as a betrayal by Ethan Ray. Often, theoretical disputes, when brought into reality, evolve into struggles between different camps or even factions.

Henry Foster’s expression grew solemn as he said gravely, “Secretary Parker, Governor Ray...”

Henry Foster didn’t continue, just shook his head lightly.

In Henry Foster’s view, Ethan Ray’s fate was already sealed—there was no way this article could “save” him. For a cadre at Ethan Ray’s level, even if he wanted to switch allegiances, it wouldn’t be easy.

In Henry Foster’s memory, in another world, there was once a promising young high-level leader who did something like this at a critical moment, with very poor results. He was unanimously criticized by the elders, his career stalled, and he never regained his former glory. On the contrary, some comrades who stuck to their own opinions, though they had a tough time for a while, mostly saw the clouds part and the moon appear; a few outstanding ones even entered the core leadership, wielded great power, and became revered leaders.

But among these people, it seemed Ethan Ray was not included.

Why Ethan Ray never got a chance to make a comeback, Henry Foster didn’t know the specific reason. Even though he was reborn, in his previous life, Henry Foster was just a low-level policeman, and only heard rumors about high-level politics. He could understand some general trends, but as for the specific fate of an “individual” like Ethan Ray, that was beyond his knowledge.

The outcome of political games depends not only on the use of strategy and power, but also deeply on personal luck. Any slip in any link can lead to completely different results.

“Secretary Parker, I have a suggestion!”

“Go ahead.”

“Secretary Parker, you’re the principal of the regional Party School. I’ve always felt that in recent years, our regional Party School hasn’t played a very obvious role—it’s become a mere formality. In fact, the Party School is an important base for cadre re-education, and its role shouldn’t be overlooked. As the principal, I suggest you pay attention to this issue. I think it’s necessary to carry out rotation training for all cadres in the region. It doesn’t have to be just before a promotion that someone goes to the Party School for a ‘gold-plating’ session. When Party School study becomes a fixed step before promotion, it’s only natural that the training effect is not obvious.”

Henry Foster said this very seriously.

A look of surprise flashed again in Mason Parker’s eyes.

This suggestion was full of “officialdom flavor”—the mark of a seasoned veteran.

“This guy, if he’s not a madman, then he’s a genius.”

Mason Parker once again sighed inwardly, though he might not have realized it himself—his perception of Henry Foster was already changing.

This time, “madman” came first, “genius” second.

In other words, in Mason Parker’s subconscious, Henry Foster was already being defined as a “genius,” not a “madman.”

“However, Secretary Parker, I think the Party School’s textbooks and teaching content need some revision and improvement. They should keep up with the times and suit the current political and economic climate. We can’t keep doing that old-fashioned, dogmatic Party preaching—no one wants to listen to that anymore.”

“Then why don’t you go compile textbooks for the Party School?”

Mason Parker suddenly said.

Henry Foster was taken aback, then saw a teasing look in Mason Parker’s eyes.

“Secretary Parker, you flatter me. I’m not qualified for that.”

He wasn’t qualified—not that he wasn’t capable.

This kid, no matter when, is always proud.

“So you know you’re not qualified!” Mason Parker gave a light snort and said sternly, “Henry Foster, from today on, you are no longer a staff member of the prefectural committee office. According to the collective decision of the office, you’re not suitable to continue working there. You are to report immediately to the Yuyang County Agricultural Machinery Factory. Secretary Grant believes that young cadres should get more grassroots experience!”

Henry Foster just smiled.

“Secretary Parker, so I’m still a cadre, right?”

Mason Parker snorted again.

“Thank you, Secretary Parker!”

Henry Foster stood up and gave Mason Parker a respectful bow.

Being able to keep his cadre status and not receiving a formal organizational punishment was probably thanks to Mason Parker’s efforts.

This favor must be acknowledged!

Chapter 10 Yuyang Agricultural Machinery Factory

Yuyang County Agricultural Machinery Factory.