Manbao woke the next morning to the sounds of bustling activity in the main courtyard. After washing up and slinging the Small book box over her shoulder, curiosity led her toward the commotion.
A courtyard filled with about twenty women fell silent for a moment before Dazhu's familiar wife eagerly grasped Manbao's hand and exclaimed, "Manbao, you're awake! Come, take a look. These are all here to work. Do you think we can keep them?"
All eyes intently fixed on Manbao.
Manbao was startled and, seeing the familiar face of Daliang's wife, asked, "Daliang's wife, are you coming to work at the small farmstead too?"
"No, no, no," Daliang's wife quickly waved her hands, "We have plenty of land of our own. It's not me who's coming; it's my aunt."
