Chapter 1601: Tempted
Despite receiving 300 taels of silver from General Sun and 200 taels each from the Crown Prince’s and the Fourth Prince’s residences, they had used a substantial portion to procure medicines for their tortured brothers. The expenses included high-quality ginseng and ganoderma lucidum, totaling over 100 taels. Remaining cautious, they refrained from touching the remaining silver, preserving it for future herbal remedies and the upcoming winter. Their lack of business knowledge deterred them from taking financial risks.
Madam Shao’s proposal offered a long-term solution, providing not just a place to settle down but also stable employment.
Furthermore, the promise of three mu of land for vegetable cultivation and raising chickens and ducks was particularly enticing. Aunt Zhang and Aunt Liu, who had always harbored dreams of poultry farming, now saw an opportunity to realize their aspirations.
“To be honest, your suggestion is truly tempting. Are there any specific requirements?” Zheng Sangge inquired.
Qiao Xuan, smiling at the chance to help, responded, “I have no special requirements. We cultivate a variety of crops each year—potatoes, watermelons, cantaloupes, and even turnips and cabbages in autumn. Your responsibilities would include farming, weeding, watering, and harvesting according to the seasonal demands. The children, being young, can attend school if they wish. We’ll cover half the expenses, and the other half should be sufficient.”
“As for wages, men aged 15 to 65 receive three taels of silver monthly, while women receive two taels. For those between 12 and 15, the monthly wage is two taels. Those below 12 are not included.”
“In addition, on the 15th of August every year, and during the Spring Festival, we distribute rewards. Everyone receives a minimum of two taels of silver, along with provisions such as rice, flour, oil, cloth, and more. Every year, two sets of clothing, shoes, and socks for both spring and winter are also provided.”
“This arrangement applies to everyone aged 12 to 65.”
Qiao Xuan, however, did not extend these benefits to younger children and senile old men. It wasn’t a matter of affordability, but rather an understanding that excessive generosity might not evoke gratitude but instead breed greed.
It would also foster dissatisfaction among those who put in the effort to earn their wages. Not everyone might harbor such feelings, but the majority likely would.
Qiao Xuan held the belief that individuals like Zheng Sangge and Liu Fu were good-hearted, yet she acknowledged the potential for less virtuous thoughts among them.
With the offered conditions, Qiao Xuan believed that as long as those capable of working exerted themselves, it would suffice to support others.
Zheng Sangge found the proposal increasingly tempting. He saw nothing amiss with Qiao Xuan’s arrangement; on the contrary, he deemed it highly reasonable. Recognizing that Qiao Xuan owed them nothing and had extended a rare opportunity, he was more than willing to consider it.
“Your terms are already very generous, much better than our current situation!” Zheng Sangge expressed gratitude with a smile and a sigh. “I thank you, Sister-in-law. I’ll discuss it with everyone tonight. Is Brother Yunduan at home tomorrow? I plan to visit him, or if the Postnatal is fine too.”
Qiao Xuan, pleased with Zheng Sangge’s positive response, felt reassured. If he found the proposal favorable, the others would likely share the sentiment. It was genuinely a beneficial offer.
“Alright, I’ll eagerly await the good news from you, Brother Zheng! Why don’t we meet tomorrow? In fact, our manor was initially looking to hire workers. It’s not a special arrangement for you, Brother Zheng. Please don’t overthink it,” Qiao Xuan suggested with a warm smile.
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