Chapter 505: Assessment
Translator: Henyee Translations Editor: Henyee Translations
“It’s not our concern whether they’re wealthy or not. Our hope is that the new Governor Su can make a positive impact for us!”
“If we can deter those troublemakers in the mountains and prevent them from robbing without cause, it’ll be a cause for celebration!”
Despite the recent tranquility in the city over the past month or so, with no sign of the mountain bandits causing trouble, uncertainty lingered as to whether it was a temporary respite.
“I believe the new governor must have a plan. Why else would he be recruiting half of the constables?”
“We’ll wait and see what Governor Su can accomplish for us in the future. There’s no use dwelling on it here. The most practical approach is to head home quickly and have your son register at the government office.”
“If we can enlist as constables, we’ll be able to contribute to everyone’s well-being!”
“You make a good point. I’ll sign up immediately.”
“Oh, I’ll rush home as well and have my son register!”
“If we manage to secure the position, let’s not think about anything else. Four taels of silver a month is much better than toiling in the fields!”
Consequently, all eligible young men hurried to the government office, resulting in a lengthy queue.
Given the significance of constable recruitment, Mr. Chen felt compelled to investigate.
The initial phase involved pre-selection, where a hundred young men would be chosen.
Liu Dazhuang and Poxed Face Wang took charge, accompanied by their guards, assessing the physical condition and age of the applicants.
Although the announcement lacked explicit criteria, certain conditions were implied: good health, a presentable appearance, literacy, and eloquence. Those meeting these conditions could progress.
Some of them exhibited strength and possessed basic martial arts skills.
Priority was given to those adept at scaling heights, navigating low terrain, and moving freely across rooftops. Mr. Chen clarified that as constables, they might need to chase criminals who would take to the roofs.
Those selected were provided with a note detailing their names, ages, family members, and their proficiency in specific skills.
Approximately 500 to 600 people formed the queue, with the goal of selecting 100 men. Mr. Chen would then review and filter out half of them.
In essence, out of every hundred registrants, only ten would be chosen, making for a relatively low selection rate.
Liu Dazhuang and Poxed Face Wang took their responsibilities seriously, having decided not to entertain bribes or accept any undue advantages. They committed to following Mr. Chen’s guidelines, a decision influenced by the previous night’s meal.
They recognized that the meager benefits they might gain were inconsequential compared to Governor Su’s generous reward. Any attempt to let undeserving individuals pass through bribery could be easily exposed by Mr. Chen.
Mr. Chen observed their actions from the sidelines.
After a morning of selection, they finally settled on 50 young men.
Poxed Face Wang, addressing the disappointed queue behind him, declared loudly, “I apologize, but today’s selection concludes here!”
“Everyone, be sure to arrive early for the next recruitment!”
The lingering crowd expressed regret, acknowledging their failure to decide promptly to join the queue.
Nevertheless, Poxed Face Wang assured them that there would be another opportunity next time.
The fifty successful candidates were each given thirty copper coins to return the next day. At that time, 30 copper coins could buy 10 meat buns, indicating a fair compensation for their efforts..