Chapter 33: Modified - 33 All Smart People
Madam Song led Mrs. Lu and her children to Meijun Garden.
"When the Prime Minister’s Mansion gifted this place, it was just as Zhou’er broke his leg, and you didn’t have the time to return. I’ve set up Meijun Garden according to your previous courtyard," Madam Song said to Mrs. Lu with a smile. "This setup is merely a rough imitation and doesn’t quite resemble your own living space. You should arrange it according to your own preferences."
Mrs. Lu looked at the spacious yard, which was tastefully and comfortably arranged, with a dozen or so wintersweet trees planted in the backyard, and realized it was done with care.
She was full of gratitude, "Elder sister-in-law, how could I ever be dissatisfied with your taste? This is already wonderful. To be honest, I should have returned earlier, but every time I planned to set off, various matters cropped up and I couldn’t free myself."
Madam Song patted her hand, "We are sisters-in-law; there’s no need to say such things in the future. Since you’re back, just settle in comfortably. In the yard, I’ve only left a few servant women and girls for rough work. I figured you would want to use people you’re accustomed to, so go ahead and arrange things first. Once you’ve settled everything, I’ll have Mama Liang bring some children over so you can choose some people to use."
A wise and generous lady knows what needs to be thorough and what can be left loose. Regarding servants, if you arrange everything yourself, others might think you have ulterior motives.
Mrs. Lu quickly said, "Speaking of servants, I must trouble you once more, elder sister-in-law. When we returned, we dismissed many maids and young servants because they were local to Shanxi and some were unwilling to leave their hometown. So, as you see, I didn’t bring many people back. The less critical positions can wait, but the ones serving the two children should be reliable, not like outsiders who can’t compare to the dependable ones raised in your mansion. I would like to ask you to select some for me."