Courtyard House: Time Traveler Not Yet a Ghost

Night fell gently, and the streetlights of Nanluoguxiang lit up one by one. He Damin drove his military green Jeep, carrying Chen Xueru and He Yuzhu, and turned into the alley. Usually, he would drive directly into the garage through the gate of the quiet back alley behind the east courtyard, keeping a distance from the hustle and bustle of the front courtyard. The family squabbles and disputes within the courtyard seemed to be kept out by that moon gate. But today he was returning early and wanted to see his older brother, He Daqing, and also talk to him about the 4S public-private partnership, so he decided to enter through the main gate and walk through the front courtyard.

The car had just come to a stop in front of the two slightly mottled vermilion gates of the courtyard house, and before He Damin could open the door and get out, a figure flashed out from the gatehouse and blocked the front of the car.

It was Yan Bugui from the west wing of the front yard. He was wearing a faded blue cotton Zhongshan suit, with old glasses with their legs wrapped in tape perched on his nose. He forced an overly enthusiastic smile onto his thin face and waved into the car through the windshield.

He Damin raised an eyebrow and rolled down the car window: "Teacher Yan, is there something you need?"

Yan Bugui leaned closer to the car window, adjusted his glasses, and spoke in a clear but not loud voice: "Damin? You're back. I was just about to talk to you about something." He paused, glanced into the car, and when he saw Chen Xueru in the passenger seat and He Yuzhu in the back, his smile widened. "It's like this, I heard... that your 'Red Star' business is going to be a 'public-private partnership,' right? After that, will all the workers there become legitimate state employees?"

He Damin understood immediately; the news traveled incredibly fast. He remained outwardly calm and asked, "Yes, the district leaders just came over today to discuss this matter. Teacher Yan, your information network is excellent; how did you know?"

Yan Bugui chuckled and rubbed his hands together: "It's all over the place now! The newspapers say the government is encouraging private industry and commerce to accept reform and take the path of public-private partnership. I was thinking, your 'Red Star' is so big, it can't be left behind. This is a great thing! Once it becomes a state-owned enterprise, it'll be secure!" He spoke in a grand and dignified manner, but his eyes gleamed with a more pragmatic light.

"It is indeed a good thing, beneficial to the country and the people," He Damin replied casually, waiting for him to continue.

Sure enough, Yan Bugui leaned forward again, lowering his voice slightly: "Damin, you see... we're all neighbors in the same compound, and close neighbors are worse than distant relatives. After the 'Red Star' joint venture is established, it will definitely expand and need manpower, especially some educated people who know how to manage, right? You, Teacher Yan, are a proper schoolteacher by training, I can read, I can do accounting, and I'm an honest person... do you think I could recommend someone to the leaders of 'Red Star'? I don't ask for anything else, just to get a regular job, or... hehe, even just a minor cadre position, wouldn't that be better for serving the public?"

His words were subtle, but the meaning couldn't be clearer: he wanted to get into "Red Star," wanted a secure job, and ideally, even a minor official position.

Before He Damin could answer, Chen Xueru, sitting next to him, frowned slightly, clearly uncomfortable with this method of "job hunting" by stopping cars. He Yuzhu, in the back seat, pursed his lips but remained silent.

"This matter..." He Damin drawled, neither agreeing nor refusing, but simply said, "The joint venture has just started negotiations, and the specific personnel arrangements will depend on national policies and the opinions of the new leaders. How about this, Professor Yan, I'm usually home in the evenings. Why don't you come over for a chat tonight? We can talk about it slowly."

Upon hearing that there was a chance, Yan Bugui's face lit up with a smile, and he nodded repeatedly: "I have time! I have time! Damin, you're too kind! I'll bring a bottle of good wine over tonight, and we can drink and chat! By the way, Old Liu in the backyard... oh, I mean Liu Haizhong, Second Uncle, he's also interested. Shall we go together then?"

He Damin chuckled inwardly; this was a shrewd plan, even bringing along a companion. "Alright, you and Second Uncle can come over tonight. No need to bring any wine, we have some at home."

"How could I possibly accept that! I'll definitely bring it, I'll definitely bring it!" Yan Bugui said happily, making way for him.

Thinking that I could have my older brother's family go directly to the east courtyard that evening, I didn't get out of the car. I drove around the courtyard and directly into the east courtyard, parking in the newly built garage.

After the three got out of the car, Chen Xueru asked softly, "Brother Damin, is there... Second Uncle in this courtyard? Who is he? I don't know him."

Before He Damin could answer, He Yuzhu interjected, "Auntie, it's Liu Haizhong who lives in the backyard, a level seven blacksmith. The third uncle is Yan Bugui, the one who stopped the car earlier, a primary school teacher. The first uncle is my dad, He Daqing. It happened a few days ago. You were late coming back then and missed it. Director Wang from the neighborhood committee came to our compound for a meeting and said he wanted to select three 'liaison officers' to be responsible for conveying the neighborhood's directives and mediating minor neighborhood disputes. Yan Bugui was chosen for the front yard, Liu Haizhong for the back yard, and my dad for the middle yard."

Chen Xueru was even more puzzled: "A liaison officer is a liaison officer, so why call him 'Grandpa'? And why the numbering?"

Zhu Zi scratched his head: "Hey, wasn't this Liu Haizhong's suggestion? He said calling them 'liaison officers' was too formal, so it would be better to arrange them by age, and calling them 'Grandpa' would sound more friendly and authoritative. Director Wang of the neighborhood office didn't object, so it went by that. When it came time to choose, Yan Bugui reported his age using the traditional Chinese age system, and Liu Haizhong also exaggerated his age. My dad saw this and thought, 'Well, I can't be left out,' so he also reported his age a few years higher. In the end, my dad was the 'oldest,' so he became 'Grandpa One,' Liu Haizhong was 'Grandpa Two,' and Yan Bugui was 'Grandpa Three.' Actually, in terms of real age, they're probably all about the same."

Upon hearing this, He Damin couldn't help but shake his head and smile. This was very much in line with the style of Liu Haizhong, that "official-obsessed" man, and Yan Bugui, that "calculator." One was after fame, and the other was after potential benefits (such as getting some benefits or favors during mediation). He guessed that his elder brother was also half-heartedly going along with it, feeling that it was prestigious to be a "big shot."

"Xueru, don't worry about these empty titles." He Damin put his arm around his wife's shoulder and walked into the house. "Yan Bugui stopped the car today for a very clear purpose. You know the salary and benefits at our 'Red Star'. Even ordinary skilled workers there earn far more than eighth-grade workers in other factories. Before, when it was a private company, they might have worried about the job's stability. Now that it's going to be a joint venture and become a state-owned enterprise, the allure of a secure job is much greater. Plus, if I can 'recommend' them to get in, their starting point might not be that of an ordinary worker. They might even get a 'cadre' status, which would be like a carp leaping over the dragon gate for them."

Chen Xueru understood: "That's why they were in such a hurry, coming to our door as soon as the news came out."

"Hmm." He Damin nodded, a hint of amusement flashing in his eyes. "I'm just curious how they're so well-informed. District Chief Yang just left this morning, and they already know by evening. It seems someone in the compound is watching us, or... even with District Chief Yang, the information isn't completely kept secret."

Once inside, He Damin said to Chen Xueru, "Xueru, they'll be coming over tonight and will definitely want us to stay for dinner. Have Zhuzi prepare a few dishes, nothing too extravagant, just a simple home-cooked meal. I have some wine here."

He then said to He Yuzhu, "Zhuzi, your cooking skills are pretty good now. Make four or five dishes, that's enough for us. You can join us at the table when you're done."

"Okay, Uncle!" He Yuzhu replied, tied on his apron, and headed to the kitchen.

Chen Xueru hesitated, "Brother Damin, are you really going to recommend them? Teacher Yan is alright, at least he's somewhat educated. But that Liu Haizhong... he's just an ordinary worker, and his personality... is he really capable?"

He Damin walked to the window, looked at the courtyard in the twilight, and slowly said, "A recommendation is not out of the question. Aren't we about to leave? 'Red Star' will soon be part of the state. Yan Bugui is shrewd and calculating, and Liu Haizhong is power-hungry. These two have their flaws, but they also have their uses. Put them in suitable positions, for example... let Yan Bugui be the deputy head of the finance department, in charge of accounts and supplies. His calculating mind will definitely be happy to do so, and he'll keep a close eye on things. Let Liu Haizhong be the deputy director of the maintenance workshop, so he can enjoy managing people. He'll definitely work hard. With these two quick-witted people, and with a bit of self-interest, the new management team, if they want to completely dominate or go too far, will probably have to think twice. This is the little bit of 'balance' we'll leave for 'Red Star' before we leave. It's better than leaving a stagnant pool, or a place full of sycophants."

He turned to Chen Xueru and said, "In the past, we had high hiring standards, requiring young and educated people for rapid development. Now that we're handing it over, keeping a couple of 'veterans' like these in there to stir things up and cause some trouble isn't always a bad thing. Of course, that's on the premise of placing them in 'deputy' positions. The main positions should be reserved for people sent by the state."

Chen Xueru listened carefully and couldn't help but admire her husband's far-sightedness. This wasn't just about repaying a favor to their neighbor; it was a strategic move. She nodded, "I understand. I'll cooperate with you that night."

At dinner time, the small living room in the east courtyard was brightly lit. On the round table were several home-style dishes prepared by He Yuzhu: braised carp, stir-fried cabbage with sliced ​​pork, shredded potatoes with vinegar, a plate of pig's head meat with cucumber, and a large bowl of tomato and egg soup. It wasn't a lavish meal, but it was hearty and perfect with drinks.

He Daqing, as the "elder brother" and "big brother," naturally accompanied them. Yan Bugui indeed brought over a bottle of bulk liquor with a red label. The label said "Erguotou," but the bottle looked old, and it was unclear which year's stock it was. Liu Haizhong also arrived, empty-handed, but wearing a crisply starched blue work uniform, his hair neatly combed, his hands behind his back, and his slightly protruding belly, trying his best to strike the pose of the "second elder brother."

After exchanging pleasantries, everyone took their seats. He Yuzhu poured wine for everyone.

After a few drinks, the atmosphere became lively. The topic naturally turned to the joint venture of "Red Star".

Yan Bugui reiterated his desire to join "Red Star," this time being more direct. He emphasized that he was cultured, good at accounting, and capable of handling clerical, accounting, or warehouse management work. Liu Haizhong, on the other hand, talked at length about how he mentored apprentices and organized production at the steel rolling mill, implying that he had management skills and was more than qualified to be a leader in "Red Star's" maintenance workshop or logistics department.

He Daqing listened from the side, occasionally chiming in with a few words of support. After all, it was his younger brother's business, and it was a good thing that he could take care of the people in the courtyard.

He Damin listened patiently until the two had finished speaking, then slowly put down his wine glass, his face showing a troubled yet considerate expression.

"Teacher Yan, Master Liu," he said, "I understand what you mean. We're old neighbors, and I'd be happy to lend a hand if I can."

Their eyes lit up.

"However," He Damin changed the subject, "there are some things I need to tell you both to avoid any misunderstandings in the future."

"You speak, Damin, we're listening," Yan Bugui quickly said.

"This public-private partnership is not simply a matter of changing the nameplate," He Damin said solemnly. "After the state takes over, the management of 'Red Star,' the main responsible persons, such as the director, factory manager, and heads of various departments, will most likely be appointed by higher authorities or transferred from other state-owned units. This is the rule, and it is also to ensure leadership. Although I am still the representative of the capital, I have limited say in personnel arrangements."

The excitement on Yan Bugui and Liu Haizhong's faces subsided somewhat.

"However," He Damin continued, "I still have the right to recommend deputies, or rather, deputies for some key departments. After all, I am familiar with the factory's situation, and the country also needs people who are familiar with the business to assist the new leader."

Hope was rekindled in the two of them.

"So," He Damin looked at them, "if you two really want to go to 'Red Star,' my suggestion is to set your goals more realistically. For example, Teacher Yan, you could become the deputy head of the finance department, assisting the head in managing accounts and materials, and using your meticulousness and shrewdness to your advantage. As for you, Master Liu, you could become the deputy director of the repair workshop, assisting the workshop director in managing production and training apprentices. You have experience and can command respect. Although the title of a deputy is not as prestigious as that of a head, it is more stable and less likely to be easily replaced. A head is brought in by a new leader; if you do well, you may be promoted, and if you don't, you may be transferred. But as long as you do your job conscientiously and are familiar with the business, you can often stay in a deputy position for a long time. That's the real 'iron rice bowl.'"

These words both gave them hope and lowered their expectations, while also offering seemingly reasonable advice—a deputy position was more stable. Yan Bugui and Liu Haizhong exchanged a glance, both seeing interest in each other's eyes. Deputy section chief, deputy director! Those were still cadres! Much better than ordinary workers! And it certainly sounded more secure.

"Damin, you're absolutely right!" Liu Haizhong slapped his thigh. "Deputy director it is! I, Old Liu, guarantee I'll do a great job there, and I won't let our institute down, nor will I let you down!"

Yan Bugui nodded repeatedly, "Hello, Deputy Section Chief! I will definitely be conscientious and diligent in managing accounts and materials, and there won't be a single mistake!"

He Damin smiled and said, "It's good that you two think that way. However, my recommendation alone isn't enough; we also need to go through the formal transfer procedures. So, once the specific details of the joint venture are finalized and the new leadership is almost in place, I'll find an opportunity to mention it to the leader in charge of the takeover, introducing your wishes and abilities. At that time, you might need to go for an interview at the new unit to go through the process. As long as you meet the basic requirements, there shouldn't be any major problems."

He pointed out the "interview" and "procedures," which made it seem more formal and also left himself some room for maneuver.

Yan Bugui and Liu Haizhong were overjoyed, feeling that the matter was almost settled. They raised their glasses repeatedly to toast and showered each other with compliments.

The meal lasted very late. After seeing off the radiant Yan Bugui and the proud Liu Haizhong, He Damin returned to the living room.

He Yuzhu was clearing the dishes when He Daqing helped him out: "Damin, you handled this a bit sloppily. Lao Yan and Lao Liu aren't very capable either. One is a shrewd old man who's always trying to make a quick buck, and the other is a bureaucrat with no education. If they go to work for you, won't they cause chaos at the 4S store?"

He Damin smiled but didn't explain further.

Chen Xueru walked over and asked in a low voice, "Brother Damin, are you really planning to do this?"

Looking out at the deep night, He Damin said calmly, "Hmm. I'll write the recommendation letters, and I'll say the right things. As for whether they can get in, and what will happen after they get in, that depends on their own fate and the new leadership's arrangements. As for us, our intentions are enough. With these two quick-witted people in, the days at 'Red Star' shouldn't be too boring."

He put his arm around his wife's shoulder: "Get some rest. We'll be busy tomorrow."

Chen Xueru nestled against him, watching the lights in other houses in the courtyard go out one by one, and felt a sense of peace in her heart.