Shopkeeper Zheng and Doctor Ji felt somewhat embarrassed when facing Manbao and his disciple, even though Manbao had already smoothed things over for them in front of County Magistrate Tang.
Sending someone to follow others does bring a secret delight when undiscovered, especially upon obtaining the desired information; but once found out, the embarrassment is all too clear.
Nevertheless, Manbao wasn't the least bit embarrassed and heartily greeted them as soon as he saw them, then said, "Shopkeeper Zheng, Doctor Ji, my teacher says he wants to treat you to a meal."
Shopkeeper Zheng immediately said, "How could we, how could we, it should be us treating you."
With these words, the awkwardness on Shopkeeper Zheng's face disappeared instantly, and he finally felt back in his element as a shopkeeper, smiling obsequiously at Mr. Zhuang and suggesting, "Mr. Zhuang, after you, how about we head to Ganxiang Pavilion?"
Mr. Zhuang nodded and left with them for Ganxiang Pavilion.