PS: This is the last chapter from my stockpile. Revising it has left me dizzy and blurry-eyed. Starting tomorrow, it'll be freshly written, haha! Don't rush me, my little angels! Also, I only realized something yesterday when I checked the updates on the Migu client—sometimes a chapter isn't finished, but the page displays it as incomplete, making it seem like there's nothing more. Ladies, please continue scrolling to the next page or check the percentage in the lower left corner. Make sure you read to the end! I was worried you might miss it, so I'm putting today's PS at the beginning of the chapter. Ah, I'm rambling so much.
Hearing the announcement from outside, Hua Bolin said sensibly, "Elder Sister, I'll go pay my respects to Grandmother first, then visit Mother."
"Go ahead. Share some happy news with Grandmother and stay with her a while longer."
"Yes."
Steward Xu and Chen Liang, who were waiting outside, bowed to him as he emerged. Hua Bolin placed one hand behind his back and gestured with the other for them to rise, then strode away with large steps. He seemed to have shed some of the restlessness of youth, gaining a touch of steadiness instead.
Exchanging a glance, both men felt pleased for the Eldest Miss. Over these past days, they had observed that among all the young masters of the Hua family, the Sixth Young Master—the most lively and even daring to feign compliance in front of the Eldest Master—was remarkably well-behaved in the Eldest Miss's presence. This obedience wasn't out of fear but respect.
Liu Xiang invited them in at the door.
Chen Liang naturally fell half a step behind Steward Xu, staying at the rear. Although Steward Xu hadn't felt any discontent about the Eldest Miss promoting someone, he now felt even more at ease, his thoughts growing clearer.
As long as his eldest son, Xu Jie, handled his duties well, the Eldest Miss would naturally value him in the future. Even his younger son, Xu Ying, had caught her attention. When she needed people, she would remember him. The Eldest Miss hadn't treated him unfairly, and he ought to be content.
With these thoughts, his expression grew even more serene. "To inform the Eldest Miss, that property has been sold. Because it was urgent, the buyer bargained the price down a bit. I made the decision to agree. The total came to seven hundred seventy-eight taels of silver."
It was slightly less than expected, but still acceptable. Hua Zhi watched as Ying Chun went over to receive the silver notes and coins. "Steward Xu, keep some silver to purchase gifts for the teachers. Double the usual amount, and within the Hua family's current means, choose the best available."
"Yes."
"Chen Liang, how are things progressing?"
"Replying to the Eldest Miss, all twenty-five shops have been purchased. However, a few were still operating businesses and need another two days to fully vacate."
"Since we've come ninety-nine steps, two more won't matter. But we should start preparing. Go measure the dimensions. All the shop walls need to be papered, and the exteriors repainted. I've already ordered the signboards. Carpenters will arrive in a couple of days to work—coordinate with them."
Having served the Eldest Miss for a few days, Chen Liang knew she was open to suggestions. After a moment's hesitation, he voiced his concern. "Won't such expenses be too high?"
"In the food business, cleanliness is paramount. When the entire lane of shops is tidy and spotless, it will put customers at ease. Combined with the enticing aromas, they'll be willing to buy a little to taste. As long as our food is truly delicious, business will gradually pick up over time. Such investments are worthwhile."
"Yes, I understand.""Steward Xu, I have some drawings here. Take them to the glass workshop and discuss whether they can produce these items. If possible, I can only give them half a month at most. We need these ready before the shop can open."
Bao Xia handed the drawings to Steward Xu, who glanced at them and bowed in acknowledgment.
The Great Qing Dynasty did have glass, but its transparency was poor, making it unappealing to nobles and officials. The common folk found it too fragile and impractical, so it had never gained widespread use. That's why Hua Zhi hadn't considered glass containers for the canned nectarine business - since the target customers were wealthy families, porcelain jars better conveyed luxury.
However, glass was suitable for display counters. Placed near the entrance, customers could examine the raw ingredients up close, assuring them of the quality. Aesthetically, it also surpassed wooden cabinets.
The reopening of the Clan school was a major event for the Hua family. Old Madam had prepared early and was escorted to the front courtyard by Hua Zhi. The daughters-in-law had also gathered, though keeping some distance.
Had the Hua men been present, such formalities wouldn't have required the womenfolk's participation - it breached propriety. But under these special circumstances, Old Madam set aside such conventions.
Hua Bolin led twenty-four cousins at the forefront, standing straight with determined eyes. He wanted to glance back at his sister but restrained himself - as the role model for his younger cousins, he needed to set a proper example.
"Please come in, Mr. Mu."
Mr. Mu hadn't expected such a formal welcome from the Hua family. Emerging from the screen wall to see the courtyard filled with people, he paused mid-step.
Hua Bolin led the youths in a deep bow. "We pay our respects to Mr. Mu."
The other Hua descendants followed with equally deep bows.
Mr. Mu hurried forward to raise him. "There's no need for such formality when we've met before. Please rise."
"You deserve this respect, Sir."
Seeing how this formerly mischievous student had matured so quickly moved Mr. Mu deeply while also easing his concerns considerably.
After accepting Old Madam's invitation, many visitors had urged reconsideration. Though some acted from self-interest - not wanting their own shortcomings highlighted by comparison - their arguments held merit.
What had steadied his resolve was the Hua young masters' attitude toward learning. Even when Hua Bolin dreaded attending Clan school, he never neglected assigned work. Those less gifted never abandoned their efforts. While minor conflicts occurred, their dedication to studies set an example for all noble families.
With the late Grand Tutor setting the standard, the Hua family had always upheld rigorous principles. Now in adversity, he refused to believe the family couldn't overcome this crisis or that its numerous descendants lacked the ability to restore their fortunes. His pre-visit worries dissolved seeing these resolute youths.
Moreover, having received great kindness from the late Grand Tutor, abandoning them now would betray decades of studying sacred texts.
Clapping Hua Bolin's shoulder, Mr. Mu approached Old Madam Hua. Before he could bow, she and the women behind her curtseyed first. He quickly sidestepped the gesture. "Old Madam, this is unnecessary. How could I possibly accept such honor?""Sir, your noble character certainly merits this respect." The Old Madam straightened her posture. "Henceforth, the descendants of the Hua family shall trouble you with their education."
"I shall certainly do my utmost." He knew this wouldn't be easy - he had mentally prepared himself before coming. Previously, the Hua Clan School had fourteen instructors; those specializing in the Spring and Autumn Annals would teach that subject while others handled different areas. But now he would have to shoulder all responsibilities alone.
"We dare not burden you alone. Another instructor will arrive after some time." The Old Madam glanced at her granddaughter beside her. "Until then, Zhi Er shall temporarily assist with teaching duties."
Mr. Mu looked at Hua Zhi in surprise. Having been with the Hua family for four years, he had rarely seen the female members. He only recognized her as the eldest young lady because she was Hua Bolin's biological sister, and it was said the siblings were exceptionally close. Had it been the second or third young lady, he wouldn't have been so astonished - after all, those two had some reputation for talent. But he had never heard of this eldest young lady possessing such aptitude.
OpenNovel