Chapter 497 - Chapter 497: Accumulating Silver
Chapter 497: Accumulating Silver
Translator: Henyee Translations Editor: Henyee Translations
Su Bin smiled without uttering a word.
Mr. Chen recognized that it was his cue to step in, and he gestured with his hand. “It appears there might be some confusion regarding the governor’s instructions.”
Poxed Face Wang’s expression turned fierce as he inquired, “Mr. Chen, could you please clarify what I’ve misunderstood?”
“The governor’s message was quite straightforward: You only need to replicate 24 announcements today,” Mr. Chen replied calmly.
Poxed Face Wang grew increasingly agitated, his tone taking on a threatening edge. His true deceitful nature became evident as he deliberately feigned ignorance of Mr. Chen’s explanation.
He intended to employ the same tactic he had used with the previous governor to pressure Su Bin and Mr. Chen into making concessions, but they were not so easily manipulated.
Mr. Chen spoke slowly, “The governor’s statement was crystal clear. Poxed
Face Wang, did you not hear it accurately? Allow me to reiterate it for you.”
“The governor’s intent was that if you copy both announcements on a single sheet of paper, you only need to produce 24 copies. However, if you choose to separate the two announcements and copy them individually, you’ll be required to produce 48 copies.”
“Isn’t this a straightforward and logical directive?”
Mr. Chen’s words took on a reprimanding tone naturally.
Poxed Face Wang, accustomed to asserting his dominance, was about to lose his temper when two others intervened, firmly pressing down on his shoulders.
“Brother Wang, there’s no need to get upset. Anger won’t help us resolve this issue. Let’s approach the governor and discuss the matter amicably.”
What was the most valuable thing in the world? Undoubtedly, it was money!
For the sake of this wealth, these individuals were absolutely unwilling to see Poxed Face Wang quarrel with the governor.
If Poxed Face Wang failed to complete his task, wouldn’t the money promised by the governor vanish into thin air?
Nevertheless, these individuals still wished to support Poxed Face Wang. They aimed to help him negotiate with Su Bin and compose just one announcement. By doing so, Poxed Face Wang could swiftly accomplish the day’s mission, enabling all of them to fulfill their duties.
They collaborated with Poxed Face Wang to strategize and engage in discussions with Su Bin.
“Governor Su, it’s worth noting that both announcements are squeezed onto a single sheet of paper. It’s quite cramped.”
“That’s correct. The paper is overcrowded, necessitating smaller text. If the text becomes too small and is posted high on the wall, it might go unnoticed by those with poor vision. Wouldn’t that render our efforts pointless?” “Thus, Poxed Face Wang’s interpretation is not unfounded. Let’s craft one announcement today.”
“We can save the other announcement for tomorrow.”
“After all, there are very few cases reported in this region. There’s hardly any work to be done.”
“Governor Su, please don’t doubt our words. Despite the rumors of chaos in Shanglin Prefecture, the reality is quite different. Just take a look for yourself— there hasn’t been a single report made here! Even if you inspect the holding cells, you’ll find that few people have committed crimes.”
Su Bin chuckled. “Your arguments do seem reasonable.”
“Considering how idle everyone appears to be, should we perhaps consider reducing your salaries by half?”
How could he even contemplate such an idea?
The objections were unanimous. “Are you kidding? Our salaries are already meager. This is absolutely not acceptable!”
“We have elderly and young family members relying on this money for support!”
Su Bin observed their expressions. “I don’t mind reducing my own salary. I’ll even forfeit half of it. Small amounts can add up over time. Half a year from now, it will amount to a substantial sum.”
“Mr. Chen, could you calculate the potential savings over six months?”
Mr. Chen nodded and took a moment to perform the calculation. “There are 12 bailiffs. Each one receives four taels of silver per month, except for Constable Liu, who gets six taels. That means you can save 27 taels per month..”