Ouyang Xiu and the others approached. Wang Fuli cupped his hands in greeting. "Gentlemen, may I ask what brings you here?"
"I am Sheng Hong."
Wang Fuli immediately understood and hurriedly bowed. "Greetings, sir. This humble one is Wang Fuli, the steward. Young Master is having breakfast at the moment; I shall have him come welcome you at once."
"No need." Ouyang Xiu waved a hand. "Tell me first—why have all these commoners gathered outside your gate?"
Sheng Hong was Wang Yan's future father-in-law and the vice prefect of Yang Province. Wang Fuli knew all this well. Now, seeing Sheng Hong standing behind Ouyang Xiu and treating him with such careful courtesy, even if he did not know Ouyang Xiu's identity, he understood that this was an official of far greater rank than Sheng Hong.
"Reporting to Your Excellency, our young master has lately reflected on the hardships of the common people. He cannot govern elsewhere, so he wishes to do what he can here in Wang Family Village: care for the villagers and lead them toward better lives. Thus, he recently bought piglets, chicks, ducklings, and goslings to distribute among the villagers for raising. Once they have more chickens, ducks, and geese, they may eat their eggs and use them to nourish the elderly, children, women, and infants in their households. As for the pigs, they may be sold for meat at year's end, and the proceeds used to buy more piglets for the villagers to raise.
"Also, it rained some days ago. Young Master felt that the muddy roads in the village were difficult to travel, so he wishes to pave every small lane with stone slabs. Young Master also said that once he earns enough silver, he will help the villagers rebuild their homes..."
Wang Fuli spoke