Mr. Xue certainly is knowledgeable and eloquent. He politely performed a respectful bow upon his arrival, and then proceeded with flatteries akin to "The Magistrate's presence brings glory to our humble shop" before ushering guests further inside.
Lu Wen initially kept quiet, but as he ascended to the second floor, he began to cause trouble, suddenly inquiring, "Young Master Sun, Manager Xue... do the private rooms in your 'West Lake Elegant Seats' differ in quality?"
This question was a trap.
If you responded that the private rooms here did not vary in quality, that all were equal, he would argue, "Why should I, a dignified Magistrate, receive the same treatment as other guests?" And if you mentioned they varied in quality, then you would have to vacate the best one for him, even if it was already occupied.
Hearing this inquiry from Mr. Lu, Manager Xue grew suspicious. Eager and sharp-minded, and familiar with scholars and officials, he almost instinctively sensed some malice.
