The journey of the only child of a peasant family to take the imperial examination

Chapter 937 The Li Family's Ideas

The way the words were phrased changed so cleverly that Little Fish couldn't help but think about it more.

"Oh, really? So your sister is actually a scholar who studies at home. She is talented but not ostentatious, wise and dignified. It's a pity that there is no young lady of suitable age in my household to associate with her. It's a real shame."

After hearing this, the young masters of the Li family smiled, knowing that Xiaoyuer had grasped the meaning behind their words.

Moreover, the reply was perfectly timed, neither presumptuous nor dull, while subtly praising and acknowledging Miss Li's talent.

He possesses considerable linguistic talent and understands the art of social maneuvering.

The Li brothers were fairly satisfied with the result.

"Yes, yes, I almost forgot that Brother Zhang is an only child. With such a family background and such talent, I wonder which lucky girl will be able to match him in the future."

Little Fish said a few words of modesty, and then the conversation ended there.

It would be inappropriate to say anything more. The reputation of a daughter from a prominent family is more important than her life, and it cannot be inquired about with mere words.

Even if the two families were secretly interested in each other, they would still have to send an official matchmaker to follow the proper etiquette of the three matchmakers and six betrothal gifts.

Otherwise, it would be considered a private transaction, and if word got out, one would lose face in aristocratic circles.

Pengpeng wasn't very good at studying, but he was quite clever at times. After the conversation ended, he realized that the Li family was interested in a marriage alliance!

In his opinion, the marriage arranged by the Li family was actually quite good. He and Xiaoyuer were well-matched in terms of social standing, and they could help each other in the future, which would be a good thing.

That's what I was thinking, but on the surface I still had to pretend I didn't know.

Throughout the day, the Li brothers took the two men on a tour of the front yard and garden of the Li residence. They chatted, fished, admired flowers, and played chess, treating the two men with great courtesy and hospitality.

That evening, Xiaoyuer and Pengpeng stayed at the Li residence for dinner, and Li Chong and Li Yue also returned from the yamen.

Li Chong was now riding high, and knowing that someone from the Zhang family had come to visit, he secretly admired Zhang Ping'an's quick wit while outwardly considering Xiao Yu'er's abilities.

Li Yue wasn't stupid; he figured out some of the tricks of the trade, and he adopted a laissez-faire attitude towards it.

He and Zhuzhu have a good relationship, but he also knows that there needs to be a sense of propriety in interactions between relatives.

After the meal, the Li Chong family and the Zhang family instantly felt closer.

When Xiaoyuer and Pengpeng returned to the manor, the Li family gave them many valuable gifts in return as a sign of respect.

In the car, Pengpeng tentatively said, "Cousin, it seems like the Li family has taken a liking to you and wants you to be their son-in-law."

Xiao Yu'er leaned back in the carriage, and upon hearing this, said casually, "By observing the words and actions of her father and brothers, one can know the general character of the women in her family. In terms of family governance, sons resemble their fathers, and daughters follow their brothers' example. If the father and brothers speak with restraint, then the ladies of the inner chambers will certainly be no less outstanding!"

If the Li family truly intends to arrange a marriage, it wouldn't be a bad idea. Besides, I'm of age now, and it's a bit too much for my father to be the sole pillar of the family in court. We need to step up as soon as possible and share his burdens.”

Pengpeng nodded: "That makes sense, but in the end, it depends on what Uncle thinks."

When the two arrived home, the Zhang family had just finished dinner and were having tea and warming themselves by the fire in the main room.

The house was already warm because of the underfloor heating, but Zhang Lao Er and Xu Shi were used to adding a brazier, which made it feel even more homely.

"How is Zhuzhu? Is she alright?" Madam Xu asked with concern.

"She looks pretty good, but her belly is frighteningly big," Xiaoyuer replied.

While speaking, he complained about the heat and casually handed his cloak to a servant before sitting down by the brazier to warm himself.

After exchanging pleasantries about everyday matters, Xiaoyuer got down to business and mentioned the Li family's thoughts, "Dad, I reckon the Li family is interested in a marriage alliance. What do you think?"

“In terms of family background and social standing, they are naturally impeccable. What do you think?” Zhang Ping’an looked at his son.