Of the two people standing outside the building, the one in front was an elderly man.
He wore a black Mao suit. Though advanced in years, he stood as straight as a pine.
A pair of mottled brown, full-rimmed glasses lent him an air of authority without diminishing his refinement.
Behind the elderly man stood a powerfully built young man with a buzz cut.
One glance told Zhou Quan that the man definitely had a military background and was probably this important figure's bodyguard.
By now, Zhou Quan had confirmed the important figure's identity.
Old Mr. Zhou, a leading figure in the Motherland's diplomatic circles, was unquestionably a man of great standing.
In the mid-eighties, when the Motherland and the Foreigners signed the Joint Declaration concerning Hong Kong Island, Old Mr. Zhou had headed the Motherland's delegation.
His current post was director of the Xinhua News Agency Hong Kong Island Branch, with full responsibility for affairs concerning Hong Kong Island.
Although Lee Man-bun's eyesight was not as sharp as Zhou Quan's, he could now make out Old Mr. Zhou's face too.
"Dad, Old Mr. Zhou is up ahead, waiting to welcome us."
Startled, he hurriedly informed Lee Shu-tong, who was resting with his eyes closed in the back seat.
"What!"
Old Master Lee's eyes flew open. He hurriedly sat upright and instructed Zhou Quan, "Chun, stop the car, quick!"
Old Mr. Zhou had done him the honor of coming out to welcome him personally. How could he dare ride right up to him as though it were his due?
Zhou Quan readily eased down on the brake and brought the car to a steady stop.
Before Lee Man-bun could get out and open the door, Old Master Lee had already stepped out himself, unable to wait.
"Brother Zhou, I already