Chinese Literature

Some students walked towards him, in groups of threes and fives. They were probably ‘coming back for lunch. Mr. Li lowered his head, pretending that he did not see them. Somehow he felt rather awkward. Something seemed to have a hold on him. What was it? Ah, yes! There was a meeting he should attend that afternoon.

He heard someone whispering and then a loud laugh. Startled, he turned back and looked. Two students had just entered the gate of the school.

“Hm, am I not allowed any freedom even on Sundays?” he thought, indignantly. “I just won't go to the meeting! Why should I take orders from that fellow Chen? ... Tet them say anything they like about me. I am not afraid. Quite frankly, I am not the man for trifle business. Every person has his own way of living. I have mine! After all, is it a crime to go and ask old Mr. Chang to drink a few cups of wine with me? Bah!”

And he quickened his steps.

Translated by Tso Cheng

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