Zhou Laodi met his mother's seemingly amused eyes and dared not hide the truth. Lady Zhou had just lost her temper, and in an effort to appease her, he said, "Mother, all this was slowly saved up by Qiu Niang from embroidering pouches and handkerchiefs. This is all we have managed to save."
The couple knew they were not favored, and fearing future discrimination when the family divided, they started to save money as soon as they were married.
Zhulan had some recollection; Mrs. Zhao hardly ever left the house, and Zhou Laodi would make trips to the county town from time to time. Observing the silver pieces on the table, the family did have its oddities. Mrs. Zhao wore all the money on her person, and Laodi knew and agreed with it!
Zhulan signaled to Mrs. Zhao, "Keep the Silver Coin safe and let's eat."
Mrs. Zhao stared unblinkingly at her mother-in-law's face, and seeing that she was not angry, her tears fell again, "Mother, you are truly kind."
