The Art of Conversation

Magistrate Fu and the steward exchanged glances, their eyes sparkling with anticipation. The county magistrate had brought up the issue of tax reduction for the third time, with the previous two discussions having taken place in private. It seemed that the county magistrate was determined to make a public change this time.

The steward, sitting to the side, listened to their conversation with a furrowed brow. The proposal for tax reduction was not entirely unwelcome, but the question remained whether the county chief would be willing to support it.

After a brief moment of contemplation, Magistrate Fu burst into hearty laughter, looking at Man Bao and then at Shan Bao. He lightly tapped their heads and turned to ask Master Bai, "How old is the young master this year?"

Master Bai immediately replied, "He is eight years old."

This was his nominal age, as adults tended to calculate a child's age differently before they matured. It seemed like a way to accelerate their growth.

Magistrate Fu, aware of this, couldn't help but feel envious. "When I saw him last year, he wasn't even seven yet, right?" He showed me an essay at the time, and I already thought he was extraordinary. Seeing him now, he truly is remarkable. Should we consider sending him to the county school?

"Li Zhi" was the name given to Bai Li by his teacher because he had no father. Magistrate Fu calling him by that name was a familiar term.

Bai Li smiled contentedly but hesitated. He glanced at the child, who was blinking forcefully, almost twitching his eyes. "The child is still young; let's wait until he's a bit older."

He continued, "His affairs are decided by his aunt." He is the only child of my younger brother, and the family may not feel comfortable letting him go out alone.

Magistrate Fu chuckled, "The county school is in the city, not too far away." You can send a trusted servant to accompany him. If necessary, you can even relocate the entire family to the city.

Encouraged by Magistrate Fu's words, he urged Master Bai to relocate to the county town.

It wasn't just because of Bai Shan Bao, but also because if the Bai family moved to the city, it would be easier to enlist their help.

Bai Li chose to settle in the quiet and livable Seven Mile Village for this reason and politely declined the suggestion with a smile.

Magistrate Fu felt a twinge of regret but suggested, "Why don't I take him as my disciple and let him learn by my side?"

Bai Shan Bao was not pleased. Although Mr. Zhuang had not officially taken him as a student, his treatment was similar to that of Man Bao. He appreciated Mr. Zhuang but didn't like the idea of studying in the county town.

So he reached out to tug at Bai Li's sleeve.

Man Bao was also anxious, but she refrained from interrupting since it was their affair and the two adults were talking.

Bai Li remained composed, calmly patting Bai Shan's hand, and said to Magistrate Fu with a smile, "It is an honor for you to take an interest in him, but I fear his aunt may not agree." As you know, the child is on his way to visit Big Pear Village, and his aunt will inquire about it three times a day. The gentleman, being in his prime and having achieved great success in recent years, may be relocated soon. His aunt will surely not allow the child to be separated from him. "It might be better to wait until he becomes a bit older before taking him on as a student."

He added, "His aunt makes the decisions regarding his affairs." He is his younger brother's only child, and the family may worry about him being alone outside.

Magistrate Fu laughed heartily in response, not because he was convinced, but because Bai Li's words pleased him greatly.

His thoughts were on his promotion, and Bai Li's flattery struck a chord with him.

Bai Li raised his glass to toast, inwardly acknowledging Mr. Zhuang's superiority not just in knowledge but also in character.

After finishing their drinks, the conversation shifted. Magistrate Fu set down his glass and instructed Bai Shan Bao, "Come to the county office when you have time." "I can help you with your studies."

Bai Shan Bao obediently nodded, and Man Bao, who had relaxed beside him, smiled sweetly, thinking that if Shan Bao left, she wouldn't have a special buddy anymore. She was relieved that he hadn't gone.

Seeing her smile, Magistrate Fu said, "Come with Zhou Man next time." "I remember you two are good friends, right?"

The last sentence was directed at Man Bao.

Man Bao nodded.

Magistrate Fu asked her, "Do you still communicate with each other?"

"Yes, we do." Maybe she doesn't know you are visiting us. Otherwise, why didn't she bring me a letter?

Magistrate Fu replied, "...She probably doesn't know."

"I knew it." "Sir, when you leave later, may I write a letter to Second Sister Fu and request that you bring it to her?"

"...Of course."

Man Bao happily agreed and whispered to Bai Shan Bao, "Second Sister Fu is nice." Would you like to write a letter to her with me? "You can become good friends through correspondence."

Though it was a whisper, everyone at the table heard it. The village elders didn't think much of it, but Magistrate Fu and his companions were taken aback.

Magistrate Fu cleared his throat. Bai Li quickly informed Shan Bao, who seemed interested, "If you wish to make friends, you can meet her when you visit the county town." "I remember the gentleman's son is about the same age as Shan Bao."

Magistrate Fu smiled and said, "Exactly, he is also eight years old this year." He is quite mischievous and has not read many books yet. "When Bai Shan Bao is present, they can study and learn from each other."