Making money, taking exams and supporting the family

chapter 60: Mr. Guo and Mr. Li Comes Calling

“What good news brings you to me?”

After entering the room and observing basic courtesy by offering water to the guest, Lin Ze straightforwardly asked.

Lately, he had been extremely busy—reading, baking bread, teaching He Xiangfeng how to make sugar from sugar beets, and discussing the details of the banquet with Zhang Xiu. He truly had no time for idle chatter and wasting time on pleasantries.

Fortunately, both Li Guangcai and Guo Yuanwai understood his temperament. Additionally, Lin Ze’s scholarly achievements made ordinary people respect him, otherwise, his attitude might have offended someone else.

The purpose of the two men coming to see Lin Ze was very simple—besides being there for their “Nanyang Town Double Waste” sons, they had no other reason.

Knowing that Lin Ze wanted to open a private school, the two old foxes began to figure out how to please him. After the news of the successful overturning of the Qingshan County case came back, the two men were even more eager. They did not hesitate at all and hurriedly calculated everything overnight before coming to visit the village today.

“Mr. Lin, we are here to congratulate you on clearing your name. With your talent, you will surely become famous in the future. We, these two old guys, are here to flatter you first. Please don’t look down on us…”

Li Guangcai’s words were quite pleasing to the ear. His flattery was so obvious that it was not annoying; instead, it felt refreshing.

Zhang Xiu smiled and Lin Ze was not embarrassed at all, accepting the praise openly.

“I dare not claim to be virtuous, but I am confident in my reputation. I am quite easy to become proud, so Mr. Li, Mr. Guo, please don’t praise me too much. We have known each other several times, so just speak frankly.” Let’s not waste time!

Li Guangcai had experienced Lin Ze’s style of doing things last time.

Guo Yuanwai was a bit stunned. Although Lin Ze was unrestrained at his house banquet last time, he still behaved politely in public. He was amazed by Lin Ze’s self-love for a while before continuing to smile.

“Mr. Lin is indeed extraordinary. In fact, we came here to discuss the matter of the private school with you. Last time at the mansion, I heard you say you wanted to open a private school. This kind of education is important, so Old Li and I want to contribute. I wonder if you agree…”

“Please, go on.”

“The most important things for establishing a private school are the teacher’s knowledge and a peaceful courtyard. As for the former, you have no problem with your vast knowledge. Regarding the latter, it might be a bit difficult for you in the short term, so Old Li and I discussed it. We can help with the courtyard.”

“Old Li has a house by the Willow River, which is quiet and peaceful. The size of the house is also very suitable. I can provide the funds for renovation. After the renovation is completed, the private school will belong to you. Old Li and I only ask that you accept our two unworthy sons as disciples. Otherwise, accepting them as students is also fine…”

This was equivalent to donating a teaching building to the school in exchange for admission slots.

The status and treatment of disciples and students were vastly different, but if the private school teacher valued them, being a student was ahead of others. These two old guys’ calculations were quite good.

Lin Ze was quite interested. This was like falling asleep and finding a pillow. He was just wondering how long he would have to save money to start the private school.