Chapter 888 - 195: Repaying Kindness
Most families who brought out cabbages did so willingly; they might eat less themselves, but they made some money too. Yet, there were those reluctant to comply, "Just because we were taught the pickled cabbage recipe doesn’t mean we can all sell pickled cabbage to make money, yet you used it to buy our winter’s supply of cabbages and radishes!"
"This isn’t simply teaching, this is bartering! Still, it’s presented so attractively, fishing for compliments! It’s practically coercive trading!"
Soon, people everywhere began to say that Pei Qin, though appearing to do good deeds, was actually pursuing her own profits. The vegetables were virtually given to them, not only easing their urgent needs but also letting them make a substantial profit this year without buying cabbages. Those who gave Pei Qin their cabbages were indebted to her! The people of Fang Family Village benefited from the Sweet Potato Flour Workshop, and they should’ve contributed! The villagers from around were helping out in times of need, truly indebted to her! They wondered how those at the workshop would show their gratitude in the future!
Many disagreed with the idea of coercive trading, as they had learned to make pickled cabbage and had willingly sold their own cabbages and radishes to Pei Qin and company. However, the notion of emergency help and indebtedness resonated with many. They thought if only Pei Qin expanded her workshop to their village or hired them as workers, they would then experience her gratitude.
People’s hearts are often selfish and opportunist, even more so when guided by circumstances. Within days, some couldn’t resist inquiring about the Sweet Potato Flour Workshop.
The Lizheng from Lin Town even came, saying he could bring in a lot more cabbages and radishes for discussion, proposing to Pei Qin the idea of opening a Sweet Potato Flour Workshop in their town.
Pei Qian turned pale with anger at the pretense of discussing; their respectful manner and smiles were clearly opportunistic exploitation, using kindness as leverage! She feared Pei Qin might waver and agree, "The purchase of cabbages was willing on both sides, with silver money paid upon agreement!"
Seeing her expression, Pei Qin didn’t bring up the matter; she had no intention to agree. There were places everywhere to open a Sweet Potato Flour Workshop, and she might just open three or five if she felt like it. But now she wasn’t in the best of moods! She outright refused and sent the visitor away.
Without reaching an agreement, the Lizheng from Lin Town felt rather embarrassed and vexed. When he returned to his own town, his words carried a tinge of spite.