Chapter 845 - 182: The Birth of Xixi
Fang Li believed that Fang Liuming, being in an official position, would have a substantial amount of silver. Thus, Old Scholar Fang gave him a travel allowance of more than ten taels of silver. He grumbled in dissatisfaction but did not insist on more, and took Fang Zhi with him as they followed the security escort agency to Baoning County.
Old Scholar Fang also had the agency’s people bring a letter to be personally delivered to Fang Liuming, explaining the situation clearly.
With Fang Li gone, the home suddenly became much quieter. Fang Fu, seeing that everything at home was in order, proposed to travel with Shen Songming. He wanted to visit Capital Jingcheng to check on news, but there was no need for him to go there since Mo Heng remained in the capital. Dalang needed to gain experience, and he would not be going, so Fang Fu could not just wait at home either. There had been no opportunity before, but now that there was one, he needed to seize it to broaden his horizons. Regardless of whether he would pass the examinations next year, he had to make an effort beforehand.
The eldest brother at home was unable to handle matters, and their father was getting old. Dalang would eventually take an official post outside and wouldn’t be able to look after home affairs, so someone needed to step up and take the initiative.
Old Scholar Fang, upon hearing of the trip with Shen Songming, did not refuse and readily agreed, ensuring Fang Fu had enough provisions. "Song Ming has his own things, but when you’re with him, you can’t always rely on his resources. Whenever possible, try to help out. Helping him is also helping Qinqin and yourself."
Last time, there was only one ship’s cargo, but this time there were two. Fang Fu understood priorities, nodded, and agreed. He thought that if possible, he would also engage in some trade to earn his keep, rather than continuously spending the family’s silver.
"Mother! Sister-in-law! With Lady Ruan at home, I’ll have to trouble you to keep an eye on her. And as for Xinxin, you can discipline her as necessary. None of those bad habits should be tolerated; being strict now is for her future benefit!" Fang Fu entrusted Grandma Fang and Lady Yu.
"Don’t worry! When she’s at home, we’ll definitely look after her! Xinxin is also well-behaved and obedient, so there’s no need for concern," Grandma Fang said, though she felt that the second daughter-in-law didn’t measure up to the first but was still much better than those others who were always causing trouble and stirring up strife.
Lady Yu also said they would take care of Lady Ruan and told him to be at ease.
After taking care of matters at home, Fang Fu went to find Shen Songming.