Chapter 61 Digging a Canal
At noon on the second day, not long after Su Family finished their lunch, there was a knock on the door outside. You Jin took the handkerchief to dry her hands before answering it: "Coming!"
She was thinking at this time, it should be Broker Chen.
Sure enough, the person standing outside the door was Broker Chen who came from Houjiawan.
Seeing You Jin, he cupped his hands with a smile and greeted, "Miss Su, it's sorted."
The owner of Houjiawan's sixteen mu of fertile land was waiting for money. Although You Jin had lowered the price, it was still within his acceptance range. So he reluctantly nodded and agreed: "Just one thing, the crops planted in the field belong to his family. The land will not belong to you until after the autumn harvest. What do you think?"
You Jin wasn't the kind of person who counted to the last grain. Since the family sold the land before the grain was harvested, it must be because there was an accident at home and they need money urgently, right? She nodded in agreement.
Since both the buyer and the seller agree, the deal was completed. You Jin went back to her room and took out a one hundred silver liang note and ten silver liang for Broker Chen: "Also, I must trouble Uncle Chen to help me run this trip to exchange the red deed back."
Broker Chen didn't expect Su Family to have bank notes when their place was in a tattered state. So he was stunned for a moment. Hearing what You Jin said, he hurriedly took the money: "Miss Su, you are being polite. This is what we brokers should do, no?"
Broker Chen was very efficient in handling affairs. He delivered the red deed in the afternoon of the second day as well as refunding a few silver liang: "Miss Su, the land money was one hundred and forty liang. The red deed exchange tax is one liang and six coins. I will be charged three silver coins for the broker fee. So the total was one hundred and five liang and nine coins."
Dafeng's custom of buying and selling broker's fee was paid by both buyers and sellers. Like this sixteen mu of land, Broker Chen Sixteen received half a liang from both parties.
You Jin smiled and accepted the change and the red deed handed over by Broker Chen. Seeing the three big characters 'Su You Jin' written straight and upright on the red deed, she narrowed her eyes in delight: "Thank you, Uncle Chen."
Broker Chen smiled and said: "If Miss Su needs anything in the future, just come to me. I will naturally do my best to find a good land with a suitable price for Miss Su."
You Jin nodded with a smile and sent Broker Chen away.
She put the red deed on the table in the main room and showed it to everyone in Su Family. Everyone stared at it with wide eyes, as if a flower would pop out of it.
Mrs. Su swallowed her saliva, and asked in disbelief: "You bought all these sixteen mu of land?" When Broker Chen came to the house, Mrs. Su did not show up to avoid suspicion. She had vaguely known that her daughter was going to buy it. Who would have thought that she would buy sixteen mu of land in one go!
You Jin jollily nodded before putting away the land deed, "Even if our family have no money in the future, we at least have more than ten mu of land in our hands, right? We won't be short of food, right?"
Little Seventh in her arms was no longer withered and had yellow hair. She smilingly stated: "I have to accumulate some dowries for my younger sisters!"
Hearing what You Jin said, the younger sisters who didn't understand worldly affairs all coaxed into cheers. While Mrs. Su was surprised that Eldest Daughter was paving the way for the future of the children! She recalled when she entered Yue Family without dowry and how they lived more than ten years with tight hands. She wholeheartedly agreed with daughter's approach: "Do we still have money in our hands? Should we buy more land?"
Having grown up in the countryside all her life, she naturally felt that land was the most secure. After such an explanation from Eldest Daughter, she had the thought of accumulating more land.
"Mother, we now have sixteen mu of fertile land. Plus, there are four mu of wasteland in front our house and several mu of swale land!" You Jin pointed out: "The money in your hand must find a way to continue to produce more money. We can't just sit and empty out the mountain."
Now there was more than five hundred silver liang in hand. In Luohe Prefecture, this can buy a small shop facing the street. Her family consisted of weak females. If they can sell things to make money, it will be easier than digging in the ground.
After hearing what Daughter said, Mrs. Su didn't express any objections anymore. After all, the money was earned by Daughter. So You Jin can spend it as she like.
Let's talk about Xiao Lin Yu's side. This time, he came back to Luohe Prefecture to repair the ancestral graves so that they could return to their hometown next year to worship their ancestors. The second was the establishment of inland waterways for Luohe Prefecture. Although Xiao Family didn't make a fortune in shipping, their family had been involved in inland waterway shipping since Xiao Lin Yu's father's generation. Right now, Xiao Family's Second Uncle was an official of the Imperial Ministry of Revenue. Under his protection, Xiao Family's inland waterway shipping was a bigger slice of cake. This time Xiao Lin Yu went north from the capital to Luohe Prefecture because there was news from the court that his Majesty was going to connect the inland waterway to Luohe Prefecture. That was why Xiao Family rushed back to Luohe Prefecture first.
Excluding the unsuitable River Luo, the widest waterways that weren't too rapid near the towns and cities in Luohe Prefecture was Wuliqiao which was only four or five meters wide. If inland waterway shipping were to happen, it was to select another site or dig a canal. Before Xiao Lin Yu came, his second uncle had said his Majesty wanted to dig the canal. However, it would cost a lot to dig one. For a period of time, a decision couldn't be made. Due to this, Xiao Lin Yu had been in Luohe Prefecture for the past ten days, waiting for a letter from the capital as he searched for places near Luohe Prefecture where inland wharves can be opened.
In Xiao Family's villa, Xiao Lin Yu carefully read the urgent letter from the capital in his hand. Then he lit it on a candle. With a faint smile on the corner of his mouth, he said to the middle-aged man standing in the middle of the hall: "His Majesty had made up his mind. Second Uncle mentioned in the letter that a river will be dug along the south of Luohe Prefecture. Right now, the river is only about a few meters wide. It is estimated fifteen-eighteen meters wide and twenty-five kilometers to the south is needed to connect to the canal leading to the capital for the inland waterway transportation in Luohe Prefecture to work."
That middle-aged man was one of Xiao Family's right-hand men in business. His name was Xiao Han. He served at Xiao Lin Yu's father's side from a young age. This time when Xiao Lin Yu came to Luohe Prefecture, the head of Xiao Family sent Xiao Han over to assist a bit. After hearing what Eldest Young Master said, Xiao Han responded, "Didn't Second Master say the imperial fund is short. Why is the canal getting dug?"
"Second Uncle said his Majesty intends to allow private merchants to get involved in inland waterway transportation and raise funds to build the canal. After the canal is opened, anyone who participates in the construction of the canal and invests more than 150,000 liang will be exempted from taxes for inland waterway shipping for ten years and overseas shipping taxes for five years." Xiao Lin Yu told Xiao Han all the things mentioned in Second Master Xiao's letter: "For inland waterway shipping, there's not much tax in a year. However, overseas shipping, my Xiao Family alone pays nearly 30,000 liang in taxes a year. This transaction is only a gain, not a loss."
Although the risks of oversea shipping were high, the profits were even greater. A large part of Xiao Family's income came from oversea shipping. If the taxes of oversea shipping can be reduced for five years, it will be a considerable amount. Xiao Han cupped his hands: "Since the court requires 150,000 liang in one go, those small shipping companies will naturally not be able to afford it. In this way, only a few old familiar households like us can get a share of the pie here."
Xiao Lin Yu nodded and spoke, "Once the news that Luohe Prefecture is going to dig a canal comes out, the price of land along the coast will also rise. Uncle Xiao Han, it'll be hard work for you these two days. The land along the coast within two kilometers radius of Luohe Prefecture can be collected first"
Currently, the land outside Luohe Prefecture wasn't expensive; collect them for a few silver liang per mu. It will be tens of times the price when the news of the canal digging spreads.
Xiao Family's movements were quick. The other families involved in inland waterway shipping weren't slow either. Within three to five days, the fields along both sides of the river outside Luohe Prefecture were acquired by these few families. Initially, the fertile land that used to be only eight silver liang per mu had now been sold at twenty liang per mu. Even the four mu of wasteland that You Jin's family originally bought had now risen to ten silver liang per mu. The news that Luohe Prefecture was going to dig a canal was spreading inside and outside the city. Many people who had sold their fields earlier were beating their chests and stamping feet, feeling very vexed. For a while, the entire Luohe Prefecture fell into a frenzied land rush.
Su Family now sold sour plum soup in the city. So news like this will naturally not be missed. Today was the seventeenth time You Jin had heard a customer mention to her that the Wuliqiao was about to have a canal dug out: "Su Family's lass, have you heard that a canal is going to be dug at Wuliqiao! If your family have land by the river, you must be able to earn a lot of money!"
This time, the person who was gossiping with You Jin was a familiar woman. She probably knew Su Family lived at the other side of the Wuliqiao.
You Jin smiled and sighed: "If our family has land, I would be waiting for someone to serve me with my legs crossed. Why would I sell sour plum soup under the sun here? Don't you agree?"
When the woman heard this, she agreed. Then she lamented, "That's right. What you say is really everyone has their own destiny. Who would have thought that those wastelands can be sold for more than ten silver liang per mu? If I knew earlier, I would have told our family head to buy a ten or twenty mu long ago."
After drinking the sour plum soup, the woman got another bamboo tube of it for take away and left with a sigh.
As for have-no-land You Jin, she was glad about buying sixteen mu of fertile land in Houjiawan a few days ago and the six mu on the edge of their family's original wasteland. Initially, she wanted to collect ten mu. At that time the news that Luohe Prefecture was going to dig a canal hadn't yet spread. So You Jin bought it at a low price of two silver liang per mu. It was really unintentional.
A total of ten households participated in the construction of the canal. Within half a month, 1.5 million silver liang were collected and handed over to the imperial court. The fund was enough and the construction of the canal outside the Wuliqiao became a priority. Once the summer is over and the autumn's dry season arrives, the canal can be dug.
For merchants, the construction of the canal was convenient for business. But for the imperial court's border defense, Luohe Prefecture was the fortress in the north of Dafeng. Once a war breaks out, transporting grain through water channels will take half the time of transporting by land. Although his Majesty was old now, he was very successful in military affairs. For the sake of great prosperity for thousands of generations, it was imperative to dig a Luohe Prefecture Canal.
However, ordinary common people didn't understand this, they only care about whether they can earn money and whether they can have enough food. The imperial affairs had little to do with them, such as You Jin.
Chapter 62 Canal Workers Dormitory
Seeing the increasing number of people in Luohe Prefecture, You Jin knew that the canal construction was probably true. It will take a lot of labor to dig the canal and the people who dig the canal may not necessarily be all Luohe Prefecture's citizens. Meaning basic necessities of life would become a problem for some of them. This would be a business opportunity.
"You're looking for someone to build a house?" He Hao really didn't know whether it was Su Family having vision or luck. Who would have thought that the old and weak female and children of Su Family would spend so much money to buy so much wasteland. Initially, he felt that they were silly. The slap in the face came in a blink of an eye. He was the silly one! "Is the current house not enough for your family?"
You Jin explained: "I noticed people coming and going in Luohe Prefecture. It seems the construction of the canal is a certainty. I think I can earn some money by building some thatched mud brick houses on the wasteland. "
Su Family now had ten mu of land about a stone's throw away from the Wuliqiao River. Only four mu were planted, and the remaining six mu were vacant. If some houses were built, they would be rented to canal workers in the future. This is a way to make money, no? After discussing with Mrs. Su, You Jin sought Lizheng to find someone to help: "Our family doesn't have any acquaintances in Wuliqiao, so I want to ask Uncle Lizheng for help and find a craftsman team."
He Hao was full of emotions in his heart. No wonder Su Family had a good life! Su Family's eldest lass really dared to think and do. He Hao nodded and replied, "Sure, I will take care of this."
Right now, out of the entire Wuliqiao, only Su Family occupied ten mu of open land on the west side of the river. If he wants to take advantage of the early wind of digging the canal to earn some money, he has to be on good terms with Su Family.
"Then many thanks Uncle Lizheng. When the house is built, Auntie Zhao can make some steamed buns, mantou, and the likes and sell them there. She can earn enough to cover the expenses of the whole family." You Jin naturally understood the logic of give and take. In the future, if only her family earns all the money, others will be jealous, no?
Zhao Chun Hua's eyes lit up after hearing this. Their family's eldest son spent a lot of money every year studying in a private school in Luohe Prefecture. It would be nice if they could earn more money: "Deal! When the time comes, we will have to rely on You Jin to help us out!"
Zhao Chun Hua really liked Su Family's eldest lass more and more. She had a sweet mouth and knew how to act. It was just that she was too young. If not, it wouldn't be a bad idea to marry her into the family as a daughter-in-law.
After discussing with Lizheng, a construction team of 18 people went to the wasteland on the west side of the river two days later. They began to lay the foundation and build the house according to You Jin's idea. You Jin's idea was also very simple. The dormitory was mainly divided into two types. One was a shared quarter, which can accommodate 20 people in one room. The other was a small single room with a small kang bed and simple table and bench set. This kind was prepared for the canal engineering stewards.
The construction activity on the west side of the river had alarmed many villagers of Wuliqiao. More and more villagers went to the west side of the river to watch the excitement. Some people were envious of prospering Su Family. Naturally, some were also jealous.You Jin didn't bother to pay them any heed either. Now that the pups in the family had grown up enough to watch the home, she led Da Huang and Xiao Hei around the village a few times to dispel some people's bad intentions. The dogs following behind Su Family's lass had majestically scared away many bad-intentioned people with its teeth glistening with coldness.
Right now, everyone in Su Family's life peacefully passed. Every day sour plum soup was sold. Afterward she led her few younger sisters on exercising and trained the dog. There was the addition of digging golden Cordyceps sobolifera in the mountains. You Jin's life can be said to be quite fulfilling. The days passed day by day. In a blink of an eye, it was the fiery season, July. The house on Su Family's side of the river had already been built: You Jin adopted a layout similar to that of ordinary houses. There was only one entrance in and it was divided into the main room, the east wing and west wing. But all of them were made into shared quarters. There was no kitchen. The number of showers and toilet huts had increased. The backyard didn't have a storeroom either as it was made into a shared quarters. Altogether, the main, east, and west consist of six shared quarters. It can accommodate up to 120 people.
As for the single rooms next to shared quarters, they were slightly better built. The single rooms were string together in rows. Each room was accessed independently. Only the shower and toilet were shared. There was no courtyard wall or courtyard door. You Jin planned to directly lease them to canal engineering stewards for the long-term. Then she only needed to find someone to clean the latrine regularly.
Half a month after Su Family's house was built, the canal construction in Luohe Prefecture began. You Jin took You Yin and You Zhu to the riverside to attract guests who needed accommodation: "Shared quarters cost three wen a night! Three Wen per night!" You Jin's price wasn't high. Only ninety wen for a month's stay. It was half the price compared to the six wen per night in Luohe Prefecture.
Sure enough, after You Jin yelled a few times, someone immediately came to ask: "Little girl, is it really three wen a night?"
This time, many of the canal diggers came from other places. Although digging the canal was a bit tiring , one can earn thirty wen a day. But this didn't include food or accommodation. Prices in Luohe Prefecture were high. The cheapest shared quarters cost six yuan a night. And the daily meals, it was at least ten wen. What was truly left was only ten wen. Most of the canal workers want to earn some money, so naturally they would save as much as they can.
Seeing someone coming to ask, You Jin quickly pointed to a small black dot in the distance and stated: "That is our house. 20 people in one shared quarter. It costs three wen per night. Do you want to take a look?"
Listening to You Jin's sales voice, the three who came to ask looked at the direction she was pointing at. By foot, it was estimated to take one or so kilometers. Not too far away. So they made an appointment with You Jin to stay tonight.
You Jin sisters only stayed on the edge of the river for half an hour and at least thirty people came to enquire. A middle-aged man with a foreign accent came over and asked: "Little girl, does your place have single rooms?"
"Yes, there are! Single rooms are calculated on a monthly basis. 415 wen a month." This was the first steward who came to ask about single rooms. You Jin hurriedly introduced the situation of their family's single rooms to him: "Our single room got a kang bed. And tables, chairs and benches. Just beside the river base. Very convenient."
"Sure, I'll go take a look after I get off work." The price of 415 yuan a month was still good-value compared to the price of 20 yuan a day in the city. The steward nodded and decided to take a look.
After returning from the river, You Jin sisters helped Mrs. Su on sewing the quilts for the single room. It was only July. It wasn't expensive to buy cotton. Su Family bought more than a dozen quilts worth of cotton. One, the dormitory required it. The other, their family also need covers. For the convenience of management, You Jin had hired a widower in his early fifties from Wuliqiao Village, Uncle Hong. For one silver coin a month, he'll watch the gate of the canal workers' dormitory. Uncle Hong was too old to farm the land, so he was delighted with this employment.
That night, there were already nearly 30 canal workers living in Su Family's canal worker dormitory and two single rooms were also rented out. It was all paid first and then moved in. In one go, nearly a silver liang was earned. Everyone in Su Family was over the moon.
When collecting the money, You Jin asked everyone directly if they wanted to order breakfast for tomorrow morning: "One three-grain mantou and one bowl of coarse grain congee is two wen." After hearing this, everyone felt that the price was reasonable and ordered it. After arranging the accommodation, she gave some instructions to Uncle Hong and left Xiao Hei to guard the gate. Only then, You Jin took Da Huang and walked to the house not far away with a lantern in hand.
After returning home, everyone in Su Family was busy preparing the breakfast that had been ordered for tomorrow morning: Mrs. Su, who had put the two little babies to sleep, kneaded the dough with You Zhu, who had already grasped the mantou making process. You Jin took the coarse grains out of the warehouse, soaked them in water, lit a fire, and added firewood. She cooked the coarse grain congee. Only then, everyone washed up and went to bed.
Early the next morning, before dawn, You Jin came out of the east wing with a lantern, went into the kitchen, cut Mrs. Su and You Zhu's risen dough into equal-sized portions, and put them into the steamer. It was set on the top of the pot where coarse grain congee was cooking. The sun-dried bamboo burned with crackling sounds. Within a quarter of an hour, it was all ready.
When all the steamed buns were put into the basket covered with a layer of white cotton cloth and the coarse grain congee was poured into the wooden bucket, Mrs. Su in the main room and You Yin in the west wing room had got up. You Jin and Mrs. Su carried the large bucket of coarse grain congee, while You Yin carried the clean coarse porcelain bowl. The mother and daughters went to the canal worker's dormitory in the midst of the fading night.
The canal workers who got up early had just left the entrance when they found Su Family's mother and daughters' stall all set upl. The fragrant smell of the fist sized three-grain mantou seduced the awakened taste buds. Everyone hurriedly took out two wen and handed the money to You Jin. They asked for a bowl of congee to pair with the three grain mantou and nicely finished off their breakfast. Afterward, they waved Su Family's mother and daughters goodbye. The canal workers all went to work at about the same time. The breakfast brought by Su Family was sold out within a quarter of an hour. The mother and daughters packed up their things and went home.
Back to Lizheng He Hao's house. Mrs. Zhao had heard the news that few dozens of people had lived in Su Family's canal worker's dormitory. She was a little anxious: "Family Head, do you think we should quickly set up a stall across the river? These canal workers can earn a lot of money!"
He Hao was a well-established farmer. He had never done any small business and was a little worried. But thinking how Su Family's children who hadn't grown up yet and dared to do, they can do it too. He spoke: "In a while, go to Su's house to discuss with You Jin lass. Their family has built a lot of houses now. We can rent one room for food-selling."
Hearing what Family Head said, joy sprung on Mrs. Zhao's brows and she acknowledged in response. Then she hurried out to the west of the river. On the way, she encountered two villagers who had made mantou and sold them at the river base. They were returning with all with all smiles and grins. Seeing the baskets on their backs were empty, she can tell the business was good. At this, Mrs. Zhao became even more anxious. She couldn't miss this opportunity to make money!
It was now noon break time for the canal workers. You Jin had completed the check-in procedures for nineteen more canal workers. Now it changed to paying the accommodation fee every ten days. Although the canal workers were a little reluctant, who made Su Family's dormitory cheaper than the city. So they paid for it. You Jin, who came back from the dormitory, heard that Mrs. Zhao was here. She hurried into the main room, where Mrs. Zhao was chatting and laughing with Mrs. Su.
Chapter 63 Han Li
"You Jin, you're back? Your mother and I just talked about you!" Mrs. Zhao jollily sat on the edge of the kang. In her arms, she was hugging adorable little Eighth and was teasing her: "This big bundle of matters are all handled by you. It's not easy. Right, little Eighth?"
Little Eighth was over half a year old. She wasn't afraid of strangers. Seeing Mrs. Zhao teasing her, she yelled 'ahhh' in response. It was unknown what she said. Still, it made everyone laugh.
Mrs. Su knew that Mrs. Zhao came to see You Jin for something, so she said with a smile: "You Jin is back. Mrs. Zhao, whatever the matter you have, you two talk first. I'll take Kang-er out and walk around."
She left with Kang-er and considerately gave the room to the two of them.
You Jin stretched out her hand to take little Eighth who was stretching out her hand to her for a hug. She sat down on the edge of the kang where a table separated her from Mrs. Zhao and asked, "Auntie Zhao, you came here for the matter of selling food, right?"
Mrs. Zhao smiled shyly and replied, "I didn't want to bother your family, but you know that our family's eldest child is studying in the city. My daughter is thirteen years old. After two years, it's marriage time and the dowry will be an expense. Your Uncle Lizheng feels embarrassed, so I have to stick my face out and beg you for help."
"Our family moved to Wuliqiao few months ago. It's thanks to Auntie Zhao and Uncle Lizheng's help. If you need something, I would naturally oblige. It's like this, our family had built two rooms next to the canal worker's dormitory. It's not big. One room can only accommodate seven or eight tables, but at least it sheltered one from the wind and rain. This room can be used by you and Uncle Lizheng first. The other room will be used by us to do some other food when the time comes. We won't clash. What does Auntie Zhao think?" You Jin roughly told Mrs. Zhao what her plan was. "There are at least hundreds of people digging the canal. Even if we only sell one hundred shares every day, it'll still earn a lot of money."
When Mrs. Zhao heard this, she felt it was doable. Even if she only earns ten or twenty wen a day, she can earn a lot of money in a month, right? After getting You Jin's promise, he happily went home to prepare.
After sending off Mrs. Zhao, You Zhu and the others came around and asked, "Elder Sister, can't we cook and sell it by ourselves? Do we need to share with the villagers? It means we will earn a lot less?"
You Jin smilingly shook her head. She broke down her decision and explained to her sisters: "Our family bought ten mu of wasteland in one go and built a dormitory for canal workers. When our lives go exceptionally well, people holding grudges is inevitable. Even though the breakfast business is given to Lizheng's family, our family gets one more supporter, no? In the future, if anyone wants to bully our family, would Lizheng's family stand by and watch?"
From You Jin's point of view, this income was also part of the investment.
"I understand what Elder Sister means. Even if our family doesn't lend that house to Lizheng's family and they want to earn the money, they can carry food to the riverside and still earn money. While using our house is owing us a favor. Isn't that right, Eldest Sister?" You Bao understood the reasoning and said as she pondered with her head tilted.
"You Bao is right. Debts are easy to repay in this world, but debts of favor are not so easy to repay." You Jin replied with twinkles in her eyes. She seized every opportunity to educate her sisters. She asked for nothing else but for them to be strong enough to protect themselves even if she isn't by their side.
Mrs. Zhao's hands and feet were also fast. Within two days, they bought the things to open a steamed stuffed bun shop. Although there were only a few benches and three or four old tables, they can open a shop after tidying up. On a slightly cool morning in July and the day was dimly lit. On the quiet embankment, the small house where Mrs. Zhao and He Hao were lit up. Mrs. Zhao kneaded the dough vigorously. Two simple stoves had been set up outside the door and seven or eight layers of steamer baskets had been stacked on top of the stoves. The hot and fragrant smoke drifted across the countryside with the July wind and attracted the early-rising canal workers.
According to the word of mouth of the canal workers who lived here since a few days ago, more than 90 people have lived in Su Family's canal worker dormitory. Seven of the ten small single rooms had been rented out. It can be said that the business was very hot. The early-rising canal workers initially thought it was inconvenient to find food in Wuliqiao and saw a small house on the side of the road setting up a stall to sell breakfast today. After a night of hunger, their stomachs' cravings were pulled upon the smell of fragrant hot food. They all came here in groups of twos and threes.
Mrs. Zhao was a swift worker. The buns and mantou were delicious too. Although the price was the same as in the city, they were more than 50 percent bigger in size than the ones in the city. An adult man can eat one meat bun and a bowl and a half of coarse grains congee and be full for the whole morning. And it only cost four wen. As for those who want to save money, they can choose a three-grain mantou. One mantou plus a bowl of coarse-grain congee cost only two wen. Which was the same price as Su Family's from earlier.
Although the steamed buns at the He's Bun Shop weren't as good as the ones sold by the Su Family's, the taste was pretty decent. So the business was booming every day. Old He couple got up early every day to open the shop and do business. Although getting up early make them sleepy, the thought of earning more than 100 wen a day, the couple felt it was worth it no matter how tired they were.
As for Su Family's canal worker dormitory's side. Since there were more and more people living in now, Uncle Hong couldn't handle it all alone. So You Jin sought the two little beggars who had been following their sour plum soup stall in the city: "Do you want to be full?"
When the little one heard that they could be full, he repeatedly nodded. The older one defensively looked at You Jin, as if she was a villain who was tricking them with candy before selling them to traffickers: "What do you want?"
You Jin stood opposite the two and replied, "I can provide you with a place to live and let you have enough food every day. How about you work for me?"
"Do what?" The older beggar was half a head taller than You Jin, but he cautiously kept a distance of five or six steps from her, as if she was a man-eating monster.
You Jin paid no heed to his precautions and merrily explained: "Our family opened a canal worker dormitory at Wuliqiao. We lack two porter attendants. If you were willing, you can have enough food every day but no pay. How about it?"
As soon as the younger one heard that he could have enough to eat, he immediately looked at the older one with bright eyes, wishing that he could nod and agree in his place. It was unknown what the older one was thinking. He hesitated for a while before slightly nodding: "Okay."
You Yin, who was at the side, was slightly relieved when she heard his agreement. This was an opportunity that she spent half the day to obtain from Eldest Sister! If he refuse, how unfortunate it'll be!
After selling out today's sour plum soup, You Jin sisters returned to the Su's house in Wuliqiao with the completely dirty little beggars.
After returning to Su's house, You Jin directly told the two of them to wash themselves in the river: "After washing, throw away all the old clothes and shave all hair. We can't let fleas and lice into the house."
Since she opened her mouth, the older one took the younger one into the shallow water. First, he carefully shaved off the little beggar's filthy hair that had already formed a nest. Then he shaved off his own hair without saying a word. When You Jin brought clean clothes and towels to the two of them, she saw two bald heads soaking in the water and seriously washing off the dirt on their bodies. She shouted: "The clothes and towels are here. Come back by yourselves after washing up!"
Hearing the voice on the embankment, the older one already knew how to be embarrassed and immediately squatted down, only showing a shaved head like dysentery on the water. He answered with a blushing face: "Got it. "
You Jin knew that this was the shyness of a little boy. Chuckling, she left. These clothes were old clothes she asked from Auntie Zhao and were worn by her eldest son!
When the two little beggars returned to Su's courtyard after washing clean and were about to open the door to enter, they heard a few dogs barking. It frightened the two to the point of not daring to move. Soon, a little girl's voice sounded from inside: "Don't call Wang Cai!"
Afterward, she came out quickly and took the two of them in. It turned out to be You Yin. She had been waiting all this time and rushed out after hearing the noise.
She led them to the main room and considered having met everyone in Su Family. Sitting on the edge of the Kang, You Jin said with a smile, "I've seen you so many times, but this is the first time I've seen your true face! What's your name?"
The older one was about thirteen or fourteen years old. He looked simple and honest, but was extremely defensive. Wherever he went, he protected the younger one, for fear that someone would snatch him away. Seeing You Jin asking this question, he murmured, "My name was Han Li. His name is...his name is Han Er Hua."
The younger one looked only four or five years old. Although he was a little darker and thinner, he got handsome feature. He wasn't afraid of them. Standing behind Han Li, he tilted his head and looked at You Jin: "Elder Sister, do you really have something to eat for us to eat?"
"Of course I have. But the meals at Elder Sister's house aren't free. If you want to eat, you have to work for Elder Sister!" You Jin smilingly replied. She liked pretty little doll. It went without saying she felt close to Han Er Hua. Seeing that they were indeed hungry, she stated: "Now it happens to be lunch time at our house. Let's eat first. We can talk afterward."
Su Family's current meal was now a fixed one meat, one vegetable and one soup. Although it wasn't bountiful, it tasted superb. Although Han Li brothers were slightly wolfing it down, their eating manners weren't too bad. This made You Jin look at them admirably. Presumably, the beggars' previous environment was educated, right? She pondered about it while eating.
Seeing that the two children were anxiously eating, Mrs. Su felt distressed. She kept clipping food for the two of them: "Good child, eat slowly. If there's not enough, there's more."
Although Su Family's meals were simple, the portions were large. Guaranteed that every child can be full. This was the only requirement that You Jin had for the food at home.
Lifting the cold bamboo shoots and pork bone soup, Han Li slowly finished it. Only then, he put down the rough porcelain bowl in his hand in content. Watching Han Er Hua who was still sipping the soup, his heart couldn't help but felt hot. After so many years, the two of them finally had a hot meal. While his heart was agitated, he also became much less defensive towards Su Family.
Chapter 64 Trouble
Of course, Su Family's rice bowl wasn't easy to hold.
After eating this meal, Han brothers were arranged to live with Uncle Hong in the small room on the right side of the courtyard gate at the canal worker's dormitory. The kang was big enough. It wasn't too crowded for three people to sleep in.
You Jin took Han Li brothers around the canal worker's dormitory: "We don't need to take care of the sanitation in each room. Only need to be responsible for the sanitation of the public areas. You have to sweep the front and back yards every day and the toilet must be cleaned regularly. In addition, you can start a fire to boil water inside the compound. That's why you must pay attention to the problem of fire and not cause a fire to break out. Your daily work are these. Is there any problem?"
Han Li was a relatively taciturn person. After hearing what You Jin said, he just nodded his head and said 'yes'. No question asked.
Seeing that he had nothing to ask, You Jin handed him over to Uncle Hong: "Uncle Hong, both of these brothers are still young. You need to pay more attention to everything."
Then she turned to the two brothers and stated, "One day, three meals. Just come to our house for them. I will call You Yin and the others to call you when it's mealtime."
Nearby, Uncle Hong jollily spoke: "You Jin, you take care of the meal! Don't leave me out!"
You Jin smiled and said: "Of course I won't leave you elder behind."
Two days ago, Uncle Hong specially approached You Jin. He was willing to take only fifty wen a month. The rest would be his food expenses. He wanted Su Family to help cook his meals. You Jin knew about Uncle Hong's situation. In the early years when there was a plague in Luohe Prefecture, Uncle Hong was the only one in his family who survived. It took a little effort, so she agreed.
After sending You Jin away, Uncle Hong brought the two Han brothers into the small room where he usually sleeps: "You two will live here with me from now on. If anyone bullies you, tell me."
Back then, Uncle Hong had two young grandsons who died of illness in that plague. If those two children were still alive, they must be about the same age as Han Li.
Han Li cautiously thanked Uncle Hong before asking, "Uncle Hong, what should I do now?"
Seeing that he was on guard, Uncle Hong didn't mind. He thought for a while and answered, "Then you go and clean up the yard first!"
Having a task, Han Li, went to the backyard with his broom. Han Er Hua followed closely behind his brother with his short legs. One swept, one played. Feeling quite comfortable.
More and more people were living in Su Family's canal worker's dormitory. Now the six shared quarters were almost all occupied. Wuliqiao villagers with a smart mind tidied up their family's vacant rooms and old houses. The price was the same as Su Family's canal workers' dormitory; three sen per night. This had attracted many canal workers to live in the village.
He Hao, who was pushing the cart with Mrs. Zhao from the west of the river, looked at the grown men with unfamiliar faces walking out of the village in twos and threes and couldn't help feeling a little worried: "Now that there are so many strangers coming to the village. If we don't put some restraints, I'm afraid something will happen!"
How could Mrs. Zhao possibly like to hear this? She said: "It's just you being a worrywort! It's a good thing that someone lives in and everyone can earn money together, no? What else can happen?"
Right now, He Family's breakfast shop business was getting better and better. Look at the money that kept coming in every day. Mrs. Zhao can't wait for more people to live in here!
He Hao's worry wasn't unreasonable. In just two days, something happened in the village.
Just as the lights were turned on that night, a younger generation's panting voice came from outside He Family's yard: "Uncle Lizheng, something happened in the village!"
He Hao, who was enjoying the cool air in the courtyard after dinner, immediately sat up when he heard that something happened. He hurried out to open the courtyard door: "What happened?"
"The canal worker who lives, lives, lives at Third Uncle Chen's house said that his money is missing. Right now, he's arguing with Third Uncle Chen!" The younger generation had heard the commotion and went to watch the excitement. But seeing that that both sides were about to fight, the village elders sent him to get Lizheng to come over to preside over the overall situation. So the young man ran all the way over and was feeling out of breath.
"Old Third Chen?" He Hao knew it was deep trouble as soon as he heard about it. This old Third Chen was the most rogue rascal in Wuliqiao Village. He hurriedly closed the courtyard door: "Quick, let's have a look!"
Before He Hao reached the gate of old Third Chen's house, he heard the ruckus in old Third Chen's yard from a distance. There were people watching the commotion outside the courtyard in the night. He Hao frowned. He rushed through the crowd and entered the yard. What came to sight was two groups headed by the canal worker who had lost his money and old Third Chen. The atmosphere was tense, as if the next moment a fight would break out.
"It was you who stole our money while we were away! Otherwise, who else would have come in?" The leading man was so mad the veins were popping in his face. He had followed the workers to dig the river channel from other places. It was all to earn some silver for his family so his blind mother can receive treatment. How can he not be angry now the money was gone?
But who was old Third Chen? A famous hooligan rascal in the whole of Wuliqiao. From young, he always took advantage of others. In response to what the man said, he acted like a complete hooligan: "Everything must rely on evidence. You said I stole your money. There must be evidence, right?"
This time, there were a total of five canal workers living in old Third Chen's house. All of them were from other places. So they didn't know the infamous old Third Chen. Old Third Chen was certain that even if they got stolen, they wouldn't dare to do anything. That was why he had the guts to steal five people's money.
"You!" The two younger men standing behind the leading man wanted to rush forward, but were stopped by the leading man. These five canal workers who lived in old Third Chen's house had all their hidden money stolen by old Third Chen except for the little money they had on their bodies. They were all waiting to send home the money. How could they swallow this breath down?
"Alright! What's the fuss?" The crowd was attracted by this angry shout. It turned out that He Hao had arrived.
Old Third Chen had been a rascal for many years and also top-notch at playing tricks. When he saw Lizheng come, his mind spun and started the act of the villain complaining first: "Lizheng, you came at a good time. It's enough that these outsiders live in my house and don't give money. Now they accused me of stealing their money! As the village lizheng, you have to uphold justice for us!"
"It was clearly you who stole our money. You even slander us of not paying for the stay!" The outsiders who had their money stolen were all very furious and pointed at old Third Chen as they berated.
Seeing that old Third Chen called him Lizheng, the red-faced man at the head also turned around and cupped his hands at He Hao: "You are the village's Lizheng, right? We live in his house. Yesterday, the wages were paid. When we got off work today, we discovered they were all gone. The room is still in a mess. Beside him, who else could come in and search for our things?"
"How much money did you lose?" He Hao frowned and took in the messy courtyard. This old third Chen was getting more and more out of hand.
"I lost seven coin!" "I lost six coin!" "I lost..." The wages of canal workers were quite high. But compared to other jobs, it was labor-intensive. They were all from poor families. It would be strange if they weren't anxious!
He Hao only felt that his sight darkened. He was also a farmer. So how could he not know the importance of six or seven silver coins to a family? After taking a deep breath, he looked at old Third Chen and asked, "Old Third San, this happened in your house. As the head of the house, no matter who did it, you have to give an explanation."
This was the logic. But what kind of character was old Third Chen? What explanation can he give? As soon as old Third Chen heard what Lizheng said, he spread his hands and pretended to be helpless: "What can I do? I didn't let the thief in. Besides, who knows if they really lost money or faked it? They said they lost a few silver coins. I can say how many liang, no, how many dozens of silver liang my family lost after they moved in!"
At this moment, not only did the five sufferers who lost their money falter backwards from anger, but even He Hao and the spectating villagers outside refreshed their understanding of old Third Chen's scoundrel again. This was the villain's complaining first!
Old Third Chen had been in the village for so many years. He was a scoundrel who can even cheat eggs from children. Even when everyone in the village knew that he stole it, old Third Chen would insist that they have no evidence. No one can do anything to him.
Seeing old Third Chen's triumphant look, the five men were so infuriated that blood rushed to their heads. The two young and vigorous men rushed up at this time. Their casserole-sized fists went straight to old Third Chen's proud face.
People who can work as canal workers had a good bit of strength. Old Third Chen had lived by cheating and tricking all these years. Although he wasn't short, he was very thin. How can he possibly withstand these all-out fists?
"Ouch!" Old Third Chen fell down in response. Blood oozed from his nose. He unsteadily stood up with the support of a few pigs and dogs friends: "Ge, you dare to beat me on my ground! My brothers!"
All the people who fooled around with old Third Chen were also present today. Although they watched old Third Chen being punched until his nose spurted blood, they could only boost their courage and charge. How can the few of them hang out in Luohe Prefecture if they don't retaliate?
The young man whose money was stolen was mad. Both sides immediately started to brawl. Although there were only five canal workers and were all young and strong, there were seven or eight people on old Third Chen's side. They were outnumbered.
Hollers, violently waving fists, and the dull sound of flesh collison... The scene instantly fell into chaos. Although He Hao was present, he was the only one person. He couldn't stop them. He beckoned the villagers who were watching the excitement outside to come in and break up the fight. It took a long time to separate the two groups of people whose eyes were red from beating.
Although both sides suffered some injuries, the canal workers only had slight bruises on their faces and all stood upright. While old Third Chen's sides all had bruised noses and swollen faces. They kept wailing and screaming in pain.
All the villagers who had been cheated by old Third Chen felt extremely happy in their hearts. This kind of person deserved to be beaten up by someone! The few villagers who had a feud with old Third Chen winked at old Third Chen. Their mood were quite merry!
But who was old Third Chen? He was the one who can accuse one of stealing his cattle just for walking past his house! Would he take this beating lying down? He can be seen falling directly to the ground and clutching his broken nose as he hollered: "Ouch! Murder! Report to the officer!"
Old Third Chen's wife was also a powerful character. She directly pinched the daughter who was standing timidly by the side into tears. Then she plopped down on the ground and cried: "Unreasonable! Oppressing good people!"
The cries of the adults and the cries of the children were mixed together. Chen Family was really lively for a while.
Chapter 65 Trouble (2)
He Hao got a headache from the whole family's behavior. He yelled angrily: "All stop!"
For a moment, even rascal old Third Chen was scared into silence by the normally easygoing. He stared blankly at He Hao who had an aura of dignity.
Naturally, the spectating villagers didn't say anything. After all, it wasn't good to get involved with old Third Chen. If they can not get involved, it is best not to get involved.
"You're already a few dozen years old and still rolling around throwing a tantrum. Don't you feel ashamed!" Irritated, He Hao scolded old Third Chen before turning his head to look at the two young men nearby: "Hurry up and support him! What does this look like!"
Old Third Chen, who was being lifted up, was only frightened at the beginning. He, who can anger his old father to death and then sell his own sister by marrying her off, was naturally an asshole. Grasping his dusty sleeves, he pretended to wipe away the non-existing tears from the corners of his eyes and said, "Elder Brother He Hao, as the village lizheng, you can't let outsiders bully our Wuliqiao folks! Look at how they beat me up. If they don't pay me ten silver liang for medical expenses today, this matter will never end!"
"Brother He Hao! You have to uphold justice for our family! Our family of six/seven depend on our family head to live. If something happens to him, how will us orphans and widow live!" Old Third Chen's wife stretched out her hand and pinched her already crying daughter. Crying and sobbing to make themselves look miserable.
The sharp cries of old Third Chen's wife and children annoyed He Hao to the max. His brows became more and more wrinkled. This family was truly one family. Each and every one were top-notch at playing tricks. After taking a deep breath, he said loudly: " Alright! Stop messing!"
This old Third Chen's family was a pool of muddy water. If he wasn't the Lizheng, he didn't want to get involved in this matter at all. First, he turned his head to look at the tightly huddled together outsiders who looked at him with hatred: "Today's matter, each have their own say. You said he stole the money, but there is no evidence. There's also you beating the other. This matter ah!"
When the five canal workers heard this, their hearts turned cold. They were in a foreign land and their strength was limited. Even if they went to report to the officials and said that they had slandered them, what could they do?
Seeing the bloodshot eyes of the few canal workers, He Hao sighed deeply. He turned to look at old Third Chen: "As for old Third Chen, you were the house owner. They lived at your place and lost money. You can't escape from responsibility. You pay back the accommodation money paid by the five of them and this matter was over."
"Why! Let them live in our house for nothing these days!" Old Third Chen's wife was also a shrew. When she heard that they were to return the money they got, she immediately got counterattacked. She stood up and pointed at He Hao. "As Lizheng, you are helping outsiders. Not afraid of me reporting to the official and take off your lizheng's black gauze hat here. See how you can still show off your power then!"
"Although I, He Hao, have not accomplished much, my conscience can be at ease with what I have done in my life. If anyone thinks that I am unfair, they can go to the Yamen to report!" His gaze landed on old Third Chen and stated: "The only thing I felt ashamed about this matter is that I can't get back the stolen money for the five of them. It's best to report to the official. Maybe the stolen money can be found and all those goddamn thieves will be arrested and sentenced to three to five years in prison!"
He Hao made it sound serious. Those thieves were naturally a little guilty. Old Third Chen glared at his wife angrily. Was she trying to harm him? Although each person refunded a few dozen wen, the total amount was nearly two yuan. But when he thought about the bulging money bag he had hidden, old Third Chen gritted his teeth and submitted: "Since you have said so, I, old Third Chen San can be regarded as a reasonable and loyal person and we can get together and part on good terms. Just treat it as making friends with the few of you."
He picked and searched his pockets for half a month's accommodation money for the five. Afterward, he even wanted to hook his arms on some sad and angry canal workers' shoulder with a playful smile: "Brothers, if someday you want to come back and live at my place, you're welcome to anytime!"
One of the younger generation heavily shook off the arm put on his shoulder and followed behind the leading canal worker. Fuming, the five of them left old Third Chen's house with the few old clothes they had and went to the west of the river.
This farce ended like this. The villagers dispersed when they saw that there was no more excitement to watch. He Hao looked at old Third Chen with a playful smile, sighed deeply, shook his head, and left.
After all the unrelated people left, old Third Chen's wife angrily complained: "Why did you agree to pay the money, you got injured! The money for the accommodation is what we deserve. We lost it in vain!"
Old Third Chen rubbed his injured chin and yelped. Then he angrily retorted: "You think I am willing to pay? That He Hao's face is black as coal. If we don't lose some money, what should I do if those outsiders really reported to the officials?"
After saying that, he viciously spat. He harbored resentment towards He Hao who favored outsiders.
Speaking of He Hao, old Third Chen kept grumbling: "He really thinks of himself as an official! Only know to bully us. Wait until my son is successful in the future and I'll make them look good!"
The couple had rolled on the ground and their bodies were dusty. Old Third Chen irritatedly kicked the eldest daughter who stood timidly by the side: "What are you looking at! Bring me water to wash up!"
Chen Xiao Hong, who was kicked, woodenly acknowledged before going to the kitchen to fetch hot water for her parents. She still heard old Third Chen cursing behind her: "Raised her for twelve or thirteen years and not at all promising. Ate my rice for nothing. Once I find someone who can afford the money, I will sell you immediately!"
As her eyebrow twitched, Chen Xiao Hong's hands shook. She accidentally spilled some hot water, which happened to land on the feet of old Third Chen's eldest son, Chen Da Cheng. Chen Da Cheng kicked her too. Chen Xiao Hong, who was kicked down with the basin, didn't dare to cry while listening to her parents and eldest brother berate. She hurriedly picked up the wooden basin and went back to the kitchen to fetch hot water.
Back to the five canal workers who came out of Wuliqiao Village. They looked at the dark surroundings. From time to time, a few dogs barking or howling wolves could be heard. The night wind was still a bit chilly.
The younger ones felt aimless for a while and looked at each other, not knowing where to go. The leading man hesitated for a while before saying in a deep voice: "Go. Let's go to the west of the river!"
Seeing the canal worker's dormitory on the west side of the river that was still slightly shining in the distance, the few people had no choice but to go there to try their luck. In fact, they had wanted to live in Su Family's canal worker's dormitory at the beginning, but Su Family's side had long been full. The five people really had no choice but to go to the east of the river and lived in old Third Chen's house. Who would have thought that there would be so many moths all at once?
Uncle Wang, who was about to take a rest, heard a knock on the door outside. He signaled Han Li and Han Er Hua to sleep first. He lit a lantern, put on his outer clothes, and went to the front yard: "It's so late at night, who is it?"
"Sir, we are the canal workers who used to live across the river. We would like to stay with you for one night. Is it possible?" The leader of the canal workers cupped his hands and asked a little embarrassedly.
When Uncle Wang heard that they wanted to stay, he waved his hands, and replied, "We are full. No place left anymore!"
When they heard that there was no place left, they were a little disappointed and prepared to leave dejectedly. One young boy didn't give up. He begged once more: "Sir, we were tricked by old Third Chen's family on the other side of the river. He stole all our money. We really have no choice. So late at night, the city gate is also closed. We really have nowhere to go. Sir, please help us!"
As soon as he heard that it was the canal workers who lived in old Third Chen's house, Uncle Wang unconsciously frowned: "Why did you live in his house?"
However, his compassion bubbled up and led the five people to the side of the yard. Walking to a row of single rooms, he opened one of the vacant rooms with a key: "Why don't you live here today. The rooms here are all paid by month. I don't think it's easy for you, just give me the money for one night first."
Seeing how accommodating he was, the few people were naturally very grateful. They hurriedly scraped together the rent for one night and gave it to Uncle Wang. After gratefully seeing off Uncle Wang, they took a look at the single room. The kang could barely fit five people. There were tables, chairs and benches. Though it was small, it for one night.
In the early morning of the next day, Uncle Wang roughly explained the matter to You Jin who came to check the canal worker's dormitory at the daily fixed time: "Those canal workers lived in a single room for one night. You Jin lass, don't blame this old man for making the decision on my own!"
After listening to Uncle Wang's words, You Jin smiled and said, "Sir, you did the right thing. Our family taking them in for one night is a slight help of hand. But what happened at the east side of the river?" Su Family lived on the west side of the river. The advantage of being far away from the village was that it was calm and tidy. But the disadvantage was that they didn't know what happened in the village.
Speaking of this, Uncle Wang spat in disgust: "That old Third Chen isn't a thing! The hard-earned money of several canal workers had been stolen. If Lizheng hadn't stepped forward and had him refunded the accommodation fee, those people were probably going to sleep on the streets!"
After listening to Uncle Wang's general account of what happened, You Jin frowned and asked: "Can't those canal workers report to the officials? The officials can't ignore the loss of so much money, right?"
Uncle Wang sighed and said: "You Jin lass, your family had only moved here for less than half a year. So you don't know how powerful old Third Chen is. He is well-known in our area. It's not that he hadn't been reported to the officials before. Just don't know where old Third Chen hid the things after stealing them. The officials couldn't find any evidence, so the sufferer could only let it go in the end and admit that they were unlucky!"
"Then it is really a disaster?" You Jin asked, feeling a sense of crisis. Most of her family members were helpless females. If old Third Chen set their eyes on them, there would be a catastrophe!
Uncle Wang helplessly shook his head. Who can say for sure?