Chapter 391: Third Brother’s Eyes Are High
Translator: Henyee Translations Editor: Henyee Translations
“Sister, Brother-in-law, and Mother are all incredibly generous. We shouldn’t be petty,” remarked one of the daughters-in-law, echoing the sentiments of the others.
Mrs. Yang looked upon the daughters-in-law of her eldest and second sons with satisfaction. “As long as you’re comfortable with it, then it’s settled. The betrothal gifts for the third and fourth sons will be even more generous than yours.”
Qin Dalong nodded in agreement. “Mother, that’s absolutely the right approach. ”
In ancient times, the compatibility of families was a significant consideration.
When their own family was financially modest, so were their potential in-laws.
The size of the dowry often hinged on the generosity of the betrothal gifts.
However, their family’s newfound prosperity had elevated their social status. For instance, Chen Youwei’s family possessed a house and a shop in the prefectural city. He also served as the governor’s advisor, earning a salary from the imperial court. Though not extravagantly wealthy, they were considered affluent in the city. His daughter, Chen Shanshan, was a well-mannered and cultured young lady, significantly different from a rural, uneducated girl. Naturally, her dowry would surpa.s.s that of ordinary families, resulting in more generous betrothal gifts.
Mrs. Yang was confident that her sons understood this societal hierarchy, yet she shared these details primarily to ensure that their wives felt comfortable with the arrangements. Her maternal consideration and thoughtfulness were well-known among her family, which also contributed to the strong bond between her and her daughters-in-law.
Relieved by the understanding of her sons and daughters-in-law, Ms. Yang turned her attention to Qin Sanlong. “Third, since Fourth is already engaged, it’s time for you to expedite your own marriage. Don’t be overly selective.”
Qin Sanlong, now 22 years old, had long reached the age where marriage was expected. Back when he was working as a butcher, Mrs. Yang had tried to arrange a marriage for him. However, at that time, he had set rather high standards for his future wife and made his preferences clear to his parents: “My future wife must truly capture my heart. I need to see her and feel that connection before I can settle down.”
Mrs. Yang and Qin Shan had followed his wishes and introduced him to several girls from the neighboring village, conveniently close to their home. Secret visits were not difficult to arrange. The matchmaker presented three potential matches to him, but none of them met his approval. It seemed he was quite particular.
Both Mrs. Yang and Qin Shan were puzzled about how to handle his demands, and even the matchmaker couldn’t resist a mocking comment. “Are you expecting to marry a heavenly fairy? Take a good look at yourself!” However, Qin Sanlong remained steadfast in his refusal to compromise.
He explained to his parents, “It’s not that my requirements are exceedingly high; I simply believe that when I meet the right person, I’ll know it instantly. I think my destiny with my future wife hasn’t arrived yet, so I don’t wish to rush into an engagement.” At the time, he was still relatively young, and his mother and father respected his decision.
He refused to let the matchmaker continue the search for him. It was only when the family moved to the prefectural city that Mrs. Yang and Qin Shan decided to make another attempt at finding a suitable matchmaker for him.
Yet, once again, none of the candidates met Qin Sanlong’s criteria.
During a moment of frustration, Mrs. Yang scolded him, saying, “Don’t let our newfound wealth make you arrogant!”
Feeling unjustly accused, Qin Sanlong defended himself, saying, “How am I being arrogant?”
“I’ve mentioned it before, but it seems you still don’t believe me!” Qin Sanlong lamented. “Here’s what I propose: you don’t need to worry about my marriage. I’d like to let fate run its course. Perhaps our destined moment will arrive one day.”
Mrs. Yang wasn’t ready to concede.. “You think you can find a wife without a matchmaker? Is there such a convenient solution in this world?”