===

The winter season had already begun when Dr Ye Jing Lan came back. He had returned quite late at night and Wang Lian did not want to disturb him. He had planned to visit him the next evening but unexpectedly, Dr Ye Jing Lan called him up in the afternoon when he was at the bank. This was the third time he had contacted Wang Lian after the wedding. After the customary inquiries, Dr Ye Jing Lan said,

''Don't come later at night. Come earlier and join me for dinner''.

''Very well, I'll be there,'' agreed Wang Lian. They spoke a little longer and then Dr Ye Jing Lan called off. He left the bank a little earlier than usual. He went home and changed and reached Dr Ye Jing Lan's place about an hour before dinner. Dr Lan's servant, instead of seating Wang Lian in the assembly hall, led him straight into the lounge. Dr Lan greeted him warmly, embracing him, and gently touched Wang Lian's forehead with his lips.