Chapter 388: Chapter 375: Do Me a Favor

“The Cheng family’s decision proves the quality of the mosquito repellent herbs.”

Zhuang Yutian thoughtfully responded, “The Cheng family’s decision not only ensures a steady supply of goods at a predictable price, but it also helps to improve their business reputation in Jiangsu and Zhejiang.”

“Although the Cheng family is well-known among locals, their reputation is not as strong in wealthier areas of Jiangsu and Zhejiang. They desperately need a unique product to secure their position in there.”

“Manager Cheng must be considering this; using our mosquito repellent herbs will surely create a splash in the deep business waters of Jiangsu and Zhejiang.”

“To us, selling to the Cheng family is no different than selling to other merchants. Doing business with numerous parties can be more exhausting, and regardless of you or me, we’re just small businessmen. If someone were to covet our product, there’s no telling what they might do.”

“But if we can team up with the Cheng family, most people won’t dare to act impertinently. In return for supplying them with the mosquito repellent herbs, they will naturally provide us with sufficient amounts, and we may even negotiate a better price.”

“Generally speaking, I think this is a proposition we can agree to.”

After listening to Zhuang Yutian’s explanation, Zhuang Qingning nodded in agreement, “Uncle Yutian, you have a point. The Cheng family only wants to expand their business in Jiangsu, Zhejiang, and Lingnan. They are not interested in the local county business, and it will not affect our cloth business.”

“In the end, we will still be responsible for the herbal supplies, and Uncle Yutian will handle the cloth wrapping. We should carry out the business thoroughly. Later, when Manager Cheng inquires, we can provide a definitive response.”

“Nevertheless, Uncle Yutian, you should prepare early, secure the cloth goods, and find people who can produce in good time.”

“Hmm.” Zhuang Yutian nodded, his heart was filled with relief and gratitude.

Although Zhuang Qingning is now partnering with the Cheng family, it shouldn’t affect him particularly; after all, the investment agreement they signed originally only covered this year. And even if business with the Cheng family starts next year, it doesn’t break any written agreement.

However, Zhuang Qingning still wanted to collaborate with him, which clearly indicated the intention to include him in the business.

Zhuang Yutian knew exactly what this meant, and after a moment, he sincerely said, “Thankyou, Ning.”

“There’s no need for thankyous between us, Uncle Yutian,” Zhuang Qingning responded, “I didn’t have a place to sell the mosquito repellent herbs initially. I was worried. If it weren’t for you and your wife thinking of selling them, the items would have been difficult to sell.”

“Because of you, I was able to connect with the Cheng family and get into business. I was fortunate then and naturally must continue doing business with you.”

“Furthermore, Uncle Yutian, I do need a favor.”

“Sure, let me know. If I can help, I will not refuse.”

“I’ve made a few friends in town named Hu. There are three brothers, all quite tall and strong, and they’re decent people. However, they currently have no jobs.”

Zhuang Qingning truthfully explained, “Originally, I intended to assign them some duties, but most of the workers in my workshop are female villagers. I couldn’t figure out a suitable position for them in town.”

“Considering you’ve been doing business in the county town for a long time and know many people, I thought maybe you could recommend them to someone who operates a shop or workshop, someone who is decent and needs strong workers.”

“That’s easy. I’ll see what I can do.” Zhuang Yutian replied, “These individuals you mentioned, are they tall, strong and have a decent acting tough?”

“Um… they’re okay…”

In reality, these brothers, with their scruffy beards, only succeeded in frightening children to a certain extent.

“So, you’re saying that they look a bit intimidating?” Zhuang Yutian asked, laughing.

“Well, yes.”

This time, Zhuang Qingning immediately nodded in agreement.

Excluding their intellect, the three brothers could be quite daunting with their robust build and stoic demeanor.

“That’s easy then,” Zhuang Yutian responded with a smile, “Just yesterday, I was speaking to Manager Lu of a freight company who mentioned he has a lot of business this year, so he is short of staff. He’s been looking for strong and hearty men who are capable of hard work. Importantly, he prefers unmarried men.”

“Why don’t you ask them if they would be interested in freight delivery? Although it’s a tough job, it pays well. If they are willing to endure the hardships, they can surely give it a try.”

“The Hu brothers have been manual laborers at the dock for several years. As for the hardship, that should not be an issue. I will relay the message and ask them if they’re willing. If they are, can they visit you tomorrow to discuss further?” Zhuang Qingning asked.

“Yes, they can come find me, I’ll take them over to meet Manager Lu.” said Zhuang Yutian with immediate agreement.

Zhuang Qingning and Zhuang Yutian continued to chat before quickly realizing it was noon.

After a quick meal with Zhuang Yutian, Zhuang Qingning departed for town to find the Hu brothers.

At the edge of the village, it was relatively easy to find the house the Hu brothers stayed in, next to the soapberry tree.

Only Hu Er was in the yard, tending a simple stove. Seeing Zhuang Qingning, he quickly wiped his hands on his clothes, offered her a chair, and asked, “Why have you come?”

Hu Er wanted to serve Zhuang Qingning tea but could only find a cup without cracks. There were no decent tea leaves to be found. Stood awkwardly to one side, he said, “My older and younger brothers are not at home; they should be back soon. If Manager Zhuang has any business, please tell me….”

“Where did they go?” Zhuang Qingning casually asked.

“We’ve stopped taking money to act as muscle for others. Please don’t misunderstand, Manager Zhuang,” Hu Er quickly clarified, “My older brother has just taken the youngest out to find some casual work.”