The next morning, after Bai Qingyan finished practicing with her red-tasseled silver spear in Qinghui Courtyard, Nanny Tong, who handled affairs for Bai Qingyan, returned and brought two lists.
"This one is the list you asked me to check. It includes examinees who stayed at various inns and were talented but not selected… and those examinees who were honest. The names circled have already left Dadu City. Those not circled are still lingering in Dadu City, probably waiting to see who tops the list."
Nanny Tong unfolded the other list: "This list is the result of Lu Ping's personal investigation of various purchasing activities…"
Bai Qingyan took the towel handed by Chun Tao, wiped the sweat from her face and neck, and instructed Chun Tao to prepare water.
Chun Tao handed the warmed tea to Bai Qingyan and turned to instruct the kitchen to prepare water.