Chapter 1601: Tempted
Despite receiving 300 taels of silver from General Sun and 200 taels each from the Crown Prince’s and the Fourth Prince’s residences, they had used a substantial portion to procure dicines for their tortured brothers. The expenses included high-quality ginseng and ganoderma lucidum, totaling over 100 taels. Remaining cautious, they refrained from touching the remaining silver, preserving it for future herbal redies and the upcoming winter. Their lack of business knowledge deterred them from taking financial risks.
Madam Shao’s proposal offered a long-term solution, providing not just a place to settle down but also stable employnt.
Furthermore, the promise of three mu of land for vegetable cultivation and raising chickens and ducks was particularly enticing. Aunt Zhang and Aunt Liu, who had always harbored dreams of poultry farming, now saw an opportunity to realize their aspirations.
“To be honest, your suggestion is truly tempting. Are there any specific requirents?” Zheng Sangge inquired.
Qiao Xuan, smiling at the chance to help, responded, “I have no special requirents. We cultivate a variety of crops each year—potatoes, waterlons, cantaloupes, and even turnips and cabbages in autumn. Your responsibilities would include farming, weeding, watering, and harvesting according to the seasonal demands. The children, being young, can attend school if they wish. We’ll cover half the expenses, and the other half should be sufficient.”
“As for wages, n aged 15 to 65 receive three taels of silver monthly, while won receive two taels. For those between 12 and 15, the monthly wage is two taels. Those below 12 are not included.”
“In addition, on the 15th of August every year, and during the Spring Festival, we distribute rewards. Everyone receives a minimum of two taels of silver, along with provisions such as rice, flour, oil, cloth, and more. Every year, two sets of clothing, shoes, and socks for both spring and winter are also provided.”
“This arrangent applies to everyone aged 12 to 65.”
Qiao Xuan, however, did not extend these benefits to younger children and senile old n. It wasn’t a matter of affordability, but rather an understanding that excessive generosity might not evoke gratitude but instead breed greed.
It would also foster dissatisfaction among those who put in the effort to earn their wages. Not everyone might harbor such feelings, but the majority likely would.
Qiao Xuan held the belief that individuals like Zheng Sangge and Liu Fu were good-hearted, yet she acknowledged the potential for less virtuous thoughts among them.
With the offered conditions, Qiao Xuan believed that as long as those capable of working exerted themselves, it would suffice to support others.
Zheng Sangge found the proposal increasingly tempting. He saw nothing amiss with Qiao Xuan’s arrangent; on the contrary, he deed it highly reasonable. Recognizing that Qiao Xuan owed them nothing and had extended a rare opportunity, he was more than willing to consider it.
“Your terms are already very generous, much better than our current situation!” Zheng Sangge expressed gratitude with a smile and a sigh. “I thank you, Sister-in-law. I’ll discuss it with everyone tonight. Is Brother Yunduan at ho tomorrow? I plan to visit him, or if the Postnatal is fine too.”
Qiao Xuan, pleased with Zheng Sangge’s positive response, felt reassured. If he found the proposal favorable, the others would likely share the sentint. It was genuinely a beneficial offer.
“Alright, I’ll eagerly await the good news from you, Brother Zheng! Why don’t we et tomorrow? In fact, our manor was initially looking to hire workers. It’s not a special arrangent for you, Brother Zheng. Please don’t overthink it,” Qiao Xuan suggested with a warm smile.
Reviews
All reviews (0)