Clang, clang, clang.
The copper gong rang.
Water birds startled, flying off the mast.
Officials from the Huaidong River Station draped in the night, holding short cudgels, stepped on the gangplank, and informed the Donglin New Official individually: "Lord Ran has instructed, tell the brothers to be careful at night, don't let the anchor sink in the water; if it sinks, two people need to keep watch! The kitchen has prepared midnight snacks, two buns per person, to be claimed after 11 p.m., clear?"
"Clear!"
"No, brother, what's supposed to not sink? Ship anchor?" The Donglin New Official was puzzled, "This anchor is for the ship; am I just supposed to look at it?"
The old Huaidong official wasn't in the mood to explain much to the newcomer: "The government office sent you here to work, not to idle around, do what you're told, why so much nonsense! Just be careful, there are stakes on the wharf, if needed, tie a couple more hemp ropes."
"Alright."
