Words of Thanks

Song Dalin said, "We won't register. I'll have them disperse on the spot."

Yu Qian frowned. "Our yamen has relief money and grain to distribute. If you don't come, how are we supposed to issue it?"

"Just give it directly to me. I'll distribute it."

"No," Yu Qian refused. "Every last cent and grain of the yamen's funds must be entered into the accounts. If we don't register and compile the records, all our heads will roll. We must distribute it in person."

After a pause, Yu Qian said, "How about this? If you don't wish to enter the city, I can have a clerk come to the Ten-Li Long Pavilion to register you, or go straight to Sanhu Village."

Song Dalin was tempted and was just about to agree when Wang Xiaojing tugged at his sleeve.

Song Dalin instantly came back to himself and immediately refused. "No need. Use the yamen's money and grain to relieve the villagers instead. We'll disperse where we stand."

Yu Qian turned around and gave Pan Yun a blank-faced look.

Pan Yun looked back at him with utter innocence.

Song Dalin saw it and became even more resolute. "Once my lord has issued the proclamation and given us our pardons, we'll immediately disperse and return home. There'll be no need for that relief money and grain."

At worst, they could find another couple of wicked landlords to rob tonight. Then the brothers would have the money and grain they needed to get home.

Cai Sheng sneered. "Song Dalin, don't measure a gentleman's heart with a petty man's yardstick. Do you think the Imperial Envoy is doing this to collect your names and places of origin, so he can deal with you afterward?"

Yu Qian: ...

Pan Yun: ...

Song Dalin sneered. "Isn't that exactly