Bab 240: Chapter 240: Three Wives and Four Concubines Are Common
"Uncle San, I didn't expect you to come over. I just wanted to notify Grandpa and wouldn't have surprised him by visiting myself," Han Yezhen said with a smile.
Li Chunshan chuckled.
"When you come to Hong Kong, how could your third uncle not come to pick you up? The old man even arranged a room for you and asked me to collect you, but I didn't expect Mr. Victor to also come."
Li Chunshan glanced at Victor.
Victor, with respect, addressed Han Yezhen: "Miss Han, I received a telegram from Mr. Hardy in advance. I have prepared a place and a vehicle for you."
"I've booked a room for you at the Peninsula Hotel and bought a villa in Mid-Levels. Because of the rush, it will take a week to renovate. If you prefer not to stay in a hotel, there are resorts in South Bay. If you prefer a quieter place, you can stay there."
Li Chunshan looked at Victor in astonishment. His demeanor was exceedingly respectful, almost as if a subordinate were addressing a boss.
Victor was a prominent figure in Hong Kong. He dined with the Governor and interacted with officials. Many big businessmen deferred to him, and even the triads relied on his favor. Yet, in front of my niece, he behaved like this.
He suddenly realized the name Victor mentioned—'Mr. Hardy'—must be the same Mr. Hardy from the Hardy Group!
My niece is connected to that Mr. Hardy?
"Thank you, Victor," Han Yezhen said, nodding at him.
"This is my duty," Victor responded promptly.
Han Yezhen turned to Li Chunshan. "Uncle San, I'll arrange things here, then we can go see Grandpa. Please wait a moment."
"Don't worry," Li Chunshan hurriedly said.
Han Yezhen called Victor aside. "I've brought some construction team members; Mr. Victor, could you help arrange things for them?"
"Of course, Miss Han."
"And there's a batch of goods on the plane. Please arrange for someone to look after it and find a secure place to store it once we get settled," Han Yezhen added.
She mentioned the goods because they were a significant part of her visit.
"May I ask what it is, Miss Han?" Victor inquired.
"It's an antique collection from Hardy. Since he plans to build an antique museum here in Hong Kong, we're transporting the collection in advance. It needs to be stored safely until the museum is ready," Han Yezhen explained.
Han Yezhen had brought a large number of antiques, including French antiques from World War II. For now, these items were hidden away. The local vault was ideal for storage, but in a few decades, they could simply claim they were purchased.
Victor, knowing how much his boss valued these antiques, took the matter seriously. He understood how important these items were to Mr. Hardy.
"Don't worry, Miss Han. I'll make sure everything is taken care of," Victor assured.
Li Chunshan, watching from afar, couldn't hear their conversation but saw Victor standing in front of his niece, slightly bent and nodding at every word she said. It was an unusual sight for him.
Once the arrangements were made, Han Yezhen approached Li Chunshan. "Uncle San, let's go see Grandpa. I've missed him so much."
"Let's go," Li Chunshan agreed.
They all left together. Victor had several architects taken to the hotel and arranged for security personnel to oversee the boss's plane. Han Yezhen got into a Lincoln Continental, specially provided for her during her stay in Hong Kong.
"Miss Han, this car is a new addition, exclusively for your use while you're here," Victor said.
Li Chunshan observed Victor's attentiveness.
"Thank you, Victor."
Han Yezhen entered the Lincoln, Li Chunshan got into his car, and Victor followed as they drove to the house where Old Mr. Situ resided in Shanghuan.
Upon arrival, Victor initially planned to wait outside, but Li Chunshan felt it inappropriate and insisted that Victor join them inside.
"Mr. Victor, please come in with us to meet Grandpa," Han Yezhen said.
"Certainly, Miss Han," Victor replied.
Li Chunshan:
It seems my niece can persuade people easily.
Upon entering, they found Old Mr. Situ waiting at the door, despite his frail condition.
"Grandpa~!"
Han Yezhen ran forward and embraced her grandfather. "I've missed you so much. It's been years."
Old Mr. Situ smiled and patted her shoulder. "You're still as affectionate as ever, but you've grown up."
After Han Yezhen released her grandfather and led him inside, Old Mr. Situ noticed Victor standing with Li Chunshan and asked politely, "Yezhen, who is this?"
Victor stepped forward, bowed slightly, and said, "Hello, Mr. Situ. My name is Victor."
"Hello, Mr. Victor. It's kind of you to come all the way from Los Angeles," the old man greeted with a smile.
Li Chunshan, sensing a misunderstanding, quickly clarified: "Master, Mr. Victor is our business associate."
Old Mr. Situ was momentarily taken aback but then understood. "Oh, I didn't realize Mr. Victor was here on such an occasion. My apologies."
Victor quickly reassured, "No, Mr. Situ, there's no misunderstanding. I am here with Miss Han."
"I see. In that case, please make yourself at home, Mr. Victor. Yezhen, let's go inside and catch up," Old Mr. Situ said with a smile.
The old man was well-traveled and respected. He had connections with both domestic and international figures. Roosevelt, the former President of the United States, was once his lawyer.
They sat down, and tea was served. Han Yezhen sat beside her grandfather, holding his hand. "Grandpa, it's been a while. I graduated from college last year."
"Then what are you doing now? You didn't mention in your telegram why you came to Hong Kong," the old man asked.
"Hardy Group wants to build a museum here. As the president of Hardy Group Auction Company, and with my background in architectural design, I'm overseeing the project," Han Yezhen explained.
"A museum."
The old man murmured thoughtfully but said nothing further.
"So, after graduating, you didn't pursue construction but went to work for an auction company?" the old man asked.
"Yes, I started working in an auction company before graduating. I've known Mr. Victor since then," Han Yezhen said, glancing at Victor.
Victor smiled and nodded, unbothered by the previous issues. His current success and popularity in Hong Kong made him feel proud of his achievements.
Old Mr. Situ looked at Victor and said, "Mr. Victor, thank you for your support. The triad will cooperate with you, which is beneficial for business."
Victor smiled and said, "It's all thanks to Mr. Hardy. I'm just carrying out his instructions."
The old man grew more serious and said, "I've heard from Chunshan that payments have been delayed recently. Please understand, and we'll raise funds to clear the payments as soon as possible."
Han Yezhen, understanding her grandfather's financial situation and knowing his history of supporting various causes, offered, "Grandpa, I've saved some money over the past two years. I'd like to contribute to help with your current needs."
Old Mr. Situ smiled warmly at his granddaughter. "Yezhen, you've grown up and even earned money. Thank you."
"I can offer half a million dollars. I hope it helps with your expenses," Han Yezhen said.
"Five hundred thousand? How did you save so much?" Old Mr. Situ was surprised.
"I'm the president of Hardy Auction Company with a high salary and bonuses. I don't spend much, so I've saved a fair amount," Han Yezhen explained with a smile.
"With this amount, how much of a shortfall remains?" Han Yezhen asked.
"That's a significant donation," Old Mr. Situ said kindly.
"Just let me know, Grandpa. I can advance payments if necessary," Han Yezhen said, pleading with her grandfather.
"I don't have the exact figures," Old Mr. Situ replied.
Han Yezhen turned to Li Chunshan. "Uncle San, what's the remaining difference?"
Li Chunshan looked at the old man and replied, "The total payment due is 2.63 million dollars. With the additional funds from Yezhen, it's about 2 million dollars."
"I'll send a telegram to Hardy to request an advance on the salary to cover the difference," Han Yezhen said.
She then looked at Victor. "Mr. Victor, could you assist with sending the telegram?"
"Certainly, Miss Han. I'll contact the boss right away," Victor said, standing up and nodding to Mr. Situ and Li Chunshan before leaving.
Old Mr. Situ and Li Chunshan watched as Victor departed.
The situation felt peculiar to them. Victor's boss was Hardy, and the goods were Hardy's as well. Han Yezhen's donation and request for an advance on salary to cover the cost of Hardy's goods seemed like a circular arrangement.
Victor's role was clear. He was an executor, not authorized to make decisions. It was up to the boss to approve any advance payments, and any favor would ultimately reflect back on Hardy.
Victor went to the telegraph office, sent a detailed message outlining Miss Han's request, and relayed his observations to Mr. Hardy.
Hardy, upon receiving the telegram, found the
situation amusing. He couldn't help but admire his niece's determination and sense of responsibility. Despite his unconventional methods, Hardy respected her.
"You're really something, Yezhen," Hardy said, shaking his head with a smile.
Hardy issued instructions for the advance payment. Han Yezhen's approach had been effective. He would allocate the funds to cover the shortfall and ensure her efforts were not in vain.
When Victor returned, he brought good news: Hardy had approved the advance, and the necessary funds would be sent immediately.
The old man, Han Yezhen, and Li Chunshan were all relieved.
Old Mr. Situ thanked Han Yezhen and, after a brief discussion, everyone adjourned for the day.
The next morning, the funds arrived, and the payment issue was resolved.
Victor remained in Hong Kong for a few more days to oversee the storage of the antiques and ensure the museum construction began smoothly.
Han Yezhen, now more at ease, continued her work with Victor and prepared for the upcoming project.
She knew the future held challenges, but with the support of her family and associates, she was ready to face them head-on.
Bab 241: Chapter 241: Planning a New Industry
The following day, Han Yezhen and her design team began inspecting various plots of land. Victor had secured five potential sites, and Han Yezhen had the freedom to choose the one that best suited their needs.
After evaluating several options, Han Yezhen concluded that the land under Jiulongtang and Lion Rock were the most promising. The beach area was too humid, and Sha Tin was too remote. Ultimately, the decision hinged on the properties of the land near Lion Rock.
Returning to Mr. Situ's house, Han Yezhen was greeted by the old man, who had arranged a nourishing stew.
"How did it go?" Mr. Situ asked as he served the soup.
Han Yezhen took a sip and replied, "The land under Jiulongtang and Lion Rock are both suitable, but Jiulongtang is designated as an industrial area. It would be impractical to include a museum amidst a large industrial zone."
"I see," Mr. Situ nodded. "What about the Lion Rock area?"
"If we use the land under Lion Rock, we'll need a large space to ensure the museum's safety," Han Yezhen explained. "The current maps are quite basic. We are surveying the terrain to determine the best location."
Mr. Situ pondered for a moment before suggesting, "I know a reputable Feng Shui master who could help with this. His name is Cai Lianfang."
"Feng Shui?" Han Yezhen was intrigued. Although she had studied Feng Shui in her architecture courses, she had never fully embraced it.
Mr. Situ continued, "Cai Lianfang's father, Cai Zubai, was a renowned Feng Shui master during the Qing Dynasty. After the fall of the Qing Dynasty, Cai Zubai and his son moved to Hong Kong. Cai Lianfang followed in his father's footsteps and became a well-known Feng Shui master himself."
"He visits me occasionally, and I can ask him to assist with your project if you'd like," Mr. Situ offered.
Han Yezhen smiled. "I appreciate the offer, Grandpa. It might be useful to get his perspective. Please go ahead and contact him."
Mr. Situ nodded and smiled. "Enjoy your meal. Are you adjusting well to the local cuisine?"
Han Yezhen laughed. "I have a taste for both Chinese and Western food, so I'm managing just fine."
The following day, Han Yezhen's team was joined by two new members: Cai Lianfang and his son Cai Boli. Cai Lianfang, in his fifties, wore a traditional gray cloth gown, while his son, Cai Boli, was dressed in a modern suit. They began inspecting the land under Lion Rock.
Cai Lianfang, using a compass, examined the terrain while discussing his observations with his son. Han Yezhen, curious about their findings, asked, "Master Cai, what do you think of this site for building a museum?"
Cai Lianfang handed the compass to his son and said, "Miss Han, to be honest, building a museum here might not be the best use of the land."
Han Yezhen was surprised. "Why do you say that?"
Cai Lianfang explained, "Museums are primarily for storing collections. As long as you protect them from fire and water, the location is less critical. However, this land is exceptionally auspicious."
He pointed to Lion Rock and continued, "Lion Rock has a distinctive shape—the head faces west, and the body and tail extend across the mountain. This area is protected by the mountain's 'dragon veins,' and its shape resembles a 'bat carrying a basket.' The Feng Shui here is excellent. It's ideal for both residential and commercial purposes, as long as you preserve the mountain's integrity."
Han Yezhen listened intently. While she only partially understood the intricate details, she recognized the land's potential.
Cai Lianfang added, "However, there is one precaution. Feng Shui emphasizes the importance of topography. Altering the landscape could change the Feng Shui, and whether it becomes better or worse is uncertain."
After the survey, Han Yezhen returned to Mr. Situ's house. The old man had just finished a phone call with Cai Lianfang.
"Cai Lianfang informed me that the land under Lion Rock is highly favorable, but he also mentioned that using it for a museum might be a waste. He believes that building a house here would enhance the master's fortune," Mr. Situ said with a smile.
Han Yezhen replied, "I believe we can make it work as a museum and still benefit Hardy's fortunes."
Mr. Situ chuckled. "It seems you've already made up your mind."
Despite feeling confident about the land's suitability, Han Yezhen decided to send a telegram to Hardy for final confirmation.
Upon receiving the telegram, Hardy reviewed it carefully. He agreed with Han Yezhen's assessment and instructed, "Proceed with the museum under Lion Rock. Allocate all 180 acres of land to the museum. Additionally, Victor should acquire the surrounding land to ensure the protection of Lion Rock's landscape."
The 180 acres were equivalent to nearly 720,000 square meters, comparable to the size of the Forbidden City. Hardy was aware of the future impact of human development and preferred to secure the land to preserve its Feng Shui.
Hardy also added a note to the telegram, suggesting that the Cai family be hired as the Feng Shui experts for the Hong Kong branch of Hardy Group.
Han Yezhen received Hardy's confirmation and instructed the construction team to proceed with the planning. Victor took on the task of acquiring the land, which involved negotiating with the government.
Victor learned that the land surrounding Lion Rock was still owned by the government and that the area was protected due to its proximity to a reservoir. The government had designated it as an "indestructible area" to safeguard the environment and water resources.
Victor explained that Hardy Group intended to purchase the land not for development but to preserve the landform. After discussing with Governor Grantham, Victor received approval to purchase the land with the condition that no extensive damage would be caused.
The deal was finalized for £550,000, and Hardy Group acquired over 300 acres of land surrounding Lion Rock, including the reservoir area.
With the museum project officially underway, Hardy continued to focus on expanding his business empire. The company was preparing to launch supermarket chains and logistics companies as part of its three-year plan.
Two new presidents were recruited: Sam Wharton for the supermarket chain and a former vice president of United Parcel Service of America for the logistics company. Both positions were offered on an annual salary plus dividend basis.
Hardy planned to build several large-scale logistics warehouses across the United States, starting with a few in Los Angeles and San Francisco. The locations were chosen in the suburbs, avoiding central areas where poverty was more prevalent.
Hardy believed in creating a robust supply chain and management team to support the supermarket and logistics ventures. The goal was to provide high-quality products at competitive prices and to build a successful network that could adapt and thrive in the evolving market.
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