Qingxian City, County Yamen.
"Looks like there's still quite a bit of silver in our yamen's accounts," Lu Xuan commented, browsing through the ledger.
The former magistrate, though corrupt, had never delayed the staff's wages. He wasn't particularly concerned about the "small money" in the treasury.
"Li Ming," Lu Xuan called out.
"Present," Li Ming responded.
"How are the refugees from Qinghe County doing now?" Lu Xuan inquired.
"Reporting to you, sir," Li Ming replied, "Those with money have bought homes and settled down in the western part of the city. Those without funds are living together in makeshift shelters, with some looking for work and others resorting to begging."
"Go to the treasury and take out some silver," Lu Xuan ordered, handing him the account book. "Set up a porridge stall in the western city tomorrow and announce that the yamen is providing porridge to aid the refugees."
"Yes, sir," Li Ming acknowledged.
