This was an arrangement that suited everyone, so the constables naturally nodded in agreement. But in the end, what was actually done was still up to them.
The contents of the exam baskets had been inspected time and again. With a single glance, the two constables could tell that nothing forbidden was concealed inside.
Still, they inspected every item one by one. They even seemed to wish they could crack open the charcoal briquettes for a closer look.
In truth, it wasn't that the constables were being nitpicky; the inspections for the county examination were simply that strict.
This was only because they hadn't brought steamed buns or flatbreads; if they had, the food would have been broken into tiny pieces. If they had carried chicken or quail eggs, the constables would have placed them in a nearby basin of water to see if they floated or sank. If they sank, all was well. But if they floated, the eggs would have to be cracked open to check for hidden cheat sheets.
