Everyone gathered around the fireplace, talking for more than an hour, until Mr. Zhuang felt sleepy and everyone dispersed.
A place like the post station, with only one building within five miles, typically meant an early bedtime after sunset. By the time the Post Station Steward returned, his eyes were almost shut.
His wife couldn't help but mutter, "City folks are strange. It's dark and they don't sleep, but sit together chatting idly."
The Post Station Steward said, "Don't talk nonsense. I think these officials are observing the people's sentiments, just like in the plays."
"There are just the five of us here, what sentiments are they observing?"
Post Station Steward: "…They asked a lot of questions, but not much about our family. If you don't understand, don't speak randomly."
His wife couldn't help but mutter, "How do I not understand? By the way, do you know where they dug up the mountain pepper?"
"Where did they dig it up?"
