There were six big trucks, two for each settlement. Before the trucks arrived, Li Long had called Xu Chengjun, so by the time they set off, Xu Chengjun had already shouted the announcement over the loudspeaker. Most people who wanted a checkup had come out to the roadside in front of their settlements.
Others were still hurrying over.
Once the trucks arrived, they turned around. The drivers got out and called for help lowering the tailgates, then told everyone to climb aboard.
Although they would be riding in big trucks, the checkups were free, and a meal was included. Most people were understanding and grateful, laughing and joking with one another as they climbed aboard.
Although rural living standards were lower than those in the cities at the time, life was generally fairly relaxed. This was especially true of Team 4, which was relatively prosperous, had a good standard of living, and enjoyed good relations between neighbors. To put it in official terms, it was full of revolutionary optimism.
Liang Shuangcheng was responsible for the eastern settlement. Seeing that not many people had boarded-only twenty-odd per truck-he called to the driver once everyone was aboard, intending to make a circuit through the settlement and call out again to see whether he could get a few more people.
Ma Jinbao was sitting solemnly at home. His son and daughter-in-law were both urging him to hurry outside; all the neighbors who wanted checkups had already gone out and boarded.
"I've already made myself clear. If Li Long doesn't invite me, I'm not going." Although Ma Jinbao had already changed into his going-out clothes, he was still putting on airs, speaking unhurriedly. "I guarantee there are reporters waiting at the hospital already.
"If too few people go, Li Long will lose face. Even