All Heavens Pension started from the fiery era

Chapter 730 731. Celebrity gathering and eye-opening

In August 1917, after Yue Wenxuan reported to the Institute, he had met Hu Shi and Jin Yuelin. In addition to these two celebrities of the Republic of China, there were three other famous figures studying at Columbia University at that time.

One of them was Sun Ke, the son of the founding father, and the other two were Jiang Menglin and Tao Xingzhi, but Yue Wenxuan had only heard of three or two of them and had not met them yet.

It was still the early days of the Republic of China, and the trend of studying abroad had not yet started on a large scale. There were not many Chinese students studying at Columbia University at this time, and with Yue Wenxuan and others, there were only a dozen people.

Transportation is inconvenient nowadays. It is a happy thing to meet old friends in a foreign country even in China, let alone in the United States across the ocean.

No matter what people's personalities are, being able to meet abroad will make them feel closer.

Yue Wenxuan and others had just entered school when they had a small gathering organized by Sun Ke, which was also to see off Hu Shi, Jiang Menglin and Tao Xingzhi as they returned to China.

All three of them have obtained their doctoral degrees from Columbia University and will return to China together in the near future after taking care of some trivial matters.

The gathering was held at a Chinese restaurant called "Ya Ji" near Columbia University. Although this restaurant is inconspicuous, it is well-known among international students for its authentic Chinese cuisine and warm atmosphere.

Inside the restaurant, several round tables were placed in an orderly manner, a few elegant traditional Chinese paintings were hung on the wall, and a few wisps of smoke were curling up from the blue and white porcelain incense burner, adding a touch of homeland flavor to this gathering in a foreign country.

When Yue Wenxuan, wearing a neat suit and gracefully walked into the restaurant, he saw Hu Shi, Sun Ke and others sitting around a table, chatting and laughing.

Hu Shi, wearing round-framed glasses and with a gleam of wisdom in his eyes, was passionately describing his new academic discoveries; Jin Yuelin, on the other hand, had a gentle and elegant appearance, nodding in agreement from time to time, occasionally interrupting, and always able to provoke deep thought with his unique logical perspective.

Although Jiang Menglin, Tao Xingzhi and others had not arrived yet, the atmosphere in the restaurant was already very lively.

Soon, footsteps were heard outside the door, followed by Jiang Menglin, Tao Xingzhi and others who came in. Their appearance seemed to inject more vitality and color into the gathering.

Sun Ke, the organizer of the party, stood tall and straight, and his words and deeds revealed an innate leadership quality; Jiang Menglin was gentle and elegant, with a sweet smile that made people feel like spring breeze; Tao Xingzhi was dressed simply, and his eyes were full of enthusiasm and persistence.

Everyone sat down one by one, and the waiter brought out the hot dishes. The aroma filled the air, instantly bringing everyone closer together.

After three rounds of wine and five dishes, the topic naturally turned to the three doctors who were about to return home.

Hu Shih was the first to raise his glass and face the crowd, his tone filled with both reluctance and expectation:

"My fellow students, I, Hu Shi, am about to embark on my journey home. In my heart, I am attached to this land of academic excellence and I am deeply concerned about the future of our country.

Although we are in a foreign country, our hearts are with China. We are willing to use what we have learned to serve our motherland and live up to our youth and the times.

Here, I offer a toast to everyone, may our friendship last forever, and may our motherland prosper!"

After saying that, he drank it all in one gulp, which resonated with everyone, and everyone raised their glasses in response.

Jiang Menglin took over the conversation, his tone gentle but firm:
"Menglin is also going home, and I am filled with emotion. After studying abroad for several years, I have deeply realized the power of knowledge to change destiny.

After returning to China, I will devote myself to education, cultivate more knowledgeable people, and contribute to the rise of the country.

Here, I also wish you all a bright future, and hope that we can meet again someday to share our experiences and glory together.”

Jiang Menglin's words were full of vision and confidence for the future.

Tao Xingzhi seemed even more excited. He stood up and looked at everyone present with sharp eyes:

"I, Tao Xingzhi, have no great ambitions in my life, except for rural education. My biggest dream is to spread the seeds of knowledge to every corner of the mountains and rivers of the motherland.

We are still a big agricultural country, and the farmers in our country have a very hard life. My biggest wish is to change this situation, to change their destiny through education, and to light up the future of the countryside through education.

I firmly believe that as long as we work together, the future of our motherland will be even better! Here, I also wish you all academic success, good health, and hope that we can meet again in the future and draw a blueprint for education together! "

His words were so powerful that they touched everyone present.

The atmosphere of the party reached its climax with the affectionate words from the three returning doctors.

Sun Ke also stood up. He looked around, his eyes flashing with determination and warmth:
“All of you seniors have lofty aspirations. Although I have not achieved as much as you, I also have the ambition to serve my country.

Today's gathering is a farewell and also an encouragement. Although we will go our separate ways, we will be able to shine in our respective fields and jointly promote the progress of our country with our hearts and strengths in the same place.

I propose that we raise our glasses once again to bid farewell to the three doctors and to toast to our common ideals! "

Everyone responded by clinking their glasses. The clear sounds echoed in the restaurant, as if it was a resonance of infinite longing and firm belief for the future.

At this moment, they are no longer isolated individuals, but closely connected compatriots and comrades-in-arms fighting together on the road to national rejuvenation.

Although this gathering was organized by Sun Ke, it was Yue Wenxuan who paid the bill in the end.

Among the students present here today, more than half are not in good financial condition. Even those who come from well-off families do not have much money in their pockets because they are living abroad.

Yue Wenxuan and his sister Yue Suzhi were picked up and dropped off by car when they went out. Everyone knew that he was a rich man and that he had paid the bill secretly, so they didn't treat him politely and instead teased him.

Seeing Yue Wenxuan's generous donation, everyone couldn't help but smile at each other, and the atmosphere became even warmer and more relaxed.

Hu Shih was the first to speak, his tone joking yet elegant: "Wenxuan, you are so generous that I'm afraid you will make us students who are short of money feel ashamed.

However, even though this meal was a farewell banquet, it also became a testimony to your generosity and generosity. When it is spread back to China, it will surely become a good story."

Upon hearing this, Jin Yuelin smiled slightly and said slowly:
"Wenxuan's action is actually a counterexample of 'the friendship between gentlemen is as pure as water, while the friendship between villains is as sweet as honey'.

He demonstrated with his actions what friendship between classmates is like, not judging by money. He is truly a role model for our generation.”

After saying this, everyone laughed, and Yue Wenxuan also laughed, and then said:
"No, no, I'm just being a good host. After all, I'm the only one among all of us who bought a house in the local area. If I don't even take this initiative, I'm afraid you'll say I'm stingy behind my back."

Everyone had already heard from Qu Shumo that Yue Wenxuan had spent a lot of money to buy a manor.

Seeing this, Sun Ke joined in the teasing. He patted Yue Wenxuan on the shoulder and said with a smile:
"Wenxuan, you are qualified to be a 'landlord'. Not only are you expected to do well in your studies, but you are also very wealthy. When you return to China in the future, I'm afraid you will become the 'God of Wealth' among us.

However, if you still have money to spare, you might as well sponsor more educational projects so that more children from poor families can have the opportunity to go abroad and see the wider world."

Yue Wenxuan heard this, a trace of seriousness flashed in his eyes, he nodded and said: "Brother Sun is right, I do have this intention. After I return home after completing my studies, I will discuss with my family to set up a special fund to support domestic education.

Especially rural education, if I have the ability, I will also pay attention to it. Just like what Brother Tao said, I hope that one day the light of knowledge can illuminate every corner. "

When this was said, everyone praised it. Tao Xingzhi was even more excited. He held Yue Wenxuan's hand tightly and said emotionally:

"Wenxuan, if you can do this, it will be a great deed! The children in the countryside will have a brighter future because of you. Your good deeds will light up their night sky like stars."

Although Yue Wenxuan had this intention, he was limited by the red warning progress bar and he didn't know how much money he could invest in this area, so he just talked about it briefly and didn't discuss it in depth. When he talked about this topic, he was also infected by everyone, and he spoke out when he was excited.

After this gathering, Yue Wenxuan and these seniors gradually became familiar with each other.

In about half a month at most, Hu Shi, Jiang Menglin and Tao Xingzhi would return to China. Before that, Yue Wenxuan would definitely host a banquet for them at his home.

After making preparations for the banquet, Yue Wenxuan notified everyone a few days in advance.

Knowing that Yue Wenxuan was going to host a dinner party at his home, naturally no one refused, and everyone planned to go to Yue Wenxuan's newly purchased manor to broaden their horizons.

A few days later, Yue Wenxuan's manor welcomed its busiest day.

Yue Wenxuan specially sent his family's car to pick up all the guests.

As cars slowly drove into the wide lawn in front of the manor, Hu Shi, Sun Ke, Jin Yuelin, Tao Xingzhi and other students, as well as several invited friends, got out of the cars and stepped into this exotic territory.

As soon as they stepped into the gate of the manor, everyone slowed down their pace involuntarily, looked around, and their eyes were full of amazement.

The manor is shaded by green trees and filled with the fragrance of flowers, and a cobblestone path leads guests deeper into it.

On both sides of the path, carefully trimmed bushes and various flowers compete for beauty, as if they are the most exquisite handwriting of nature. In the distance, a European-style villa shines brightly in the sun, with red bricks, white walls and a towering dome, revealing a self-evident solemnity and luxury.

"Wenxuan, your manor is truly a different world. If I hadn't seen it with my own eyes, it would be hard to believe that there is such an elegant place in a foreign country." Hu Shi was the first to break the silence, his tone full of surprise and delight at this unexpected event.

Sun Ke nodded in agreement, his eyes sparkling with admiration: "Yes, Wenxuan, this manor is not only exquisitely designed, but also has a rare tranquility and harmony, making people feel like they are in a paradise."

As Jin Yuelin walked, he savored every detail and nodded in praise from time to time: "Brother Wenxuan's taste is indeed extraordinary. Every brick and tile of this manor reveals the owner's extraordinaryness and care."

Tao Xingzhi was more direct. He stopped, looked at the green garden in the distance, and said bluntly:
"Compared to you, I am just a vulgar person. The first impression this manor gave me was that it was huge. The area is really too big. With such a wide view, I estimate that it should be more than ten acres."

"Brother Tao's eyesight is quite accurate. The difference is not that big. The area of ​​this manor is about twenty acres." Yue Wenxuan said.

As everyone walked into the villa, they were shocked by its interior decoration and layout.

In the center of the hall, a huge crystal chandelier hangs down from the dome, shining brightly; exquisite works of art are hung on the surrounding walls, including both classical paintings and modern sculptures, all of which demonstrate the owner's unique aesthetic and profound heritage.

After everyone finished the tour, Hu Shi said with emotion: "I have always heard Shu Mo say that the manor Wen Xuan bought is large and luxurious. After seeing it with my own eyes today, I realized how inadequate my previous imagination was.

Only by seeing it with my own eyes can I know that the beauty of modern architecture and modern decoration has reached this level. Today is really an eye-opener."

Yue Wenxuan's manor was indeed too luxurious, and others felt the same way.

As Hu Shi's sigh died down, Yue Wenxuan smiled and led everyone into the restaurant.

Inside the restaurant, the long table has been carefully arranged, with gleaming silverware and crystal-clear porcelain. Each set of tableware reveals extraordinary taste and delicate craftsmanship. There are also flowers adorning the table, the fragrance is overwhelming, and the sunlight pouring in from the window interweaves into a warm and elegant picture.

"Everyone, please take your seats."

Yue Wenxuan invited everyone to take a seat

Afterwards, he waved his hand gently, the door of the restaurant slowly opened, and a team of waiters in uniform from the big hotel filed in.

They held silver plates in their hands, on which were placed all kinds of delicacies, which were colorful, fragrant and mouth-watering.

Yue Wenxuan said: "I think you haven't eaten authentic hometown food for a long time. I specially invited the most prestigious Chinese chef team in New York to prepare a feast for everyone. I hope you will be satisfied."

It had indeed been a long time since everyone had eaten authentic hometown food, and when they saw the plates of delicious food, they were so hungry that their stomachs were about to burst.

The first dish served was an exquisite squirrel mandarin fish. The skin was fried golden and crispy, the fish meat inside was tender and juicy, and the sweet and sour sauce was even more memorable.

Then, classic dishes such as steamed sea bass, braised lion head, and Kung Pao chicken were presented one by one. Each dish was an ultimate interpretation of Chinese food culture.

Yue Wenxuan raised his glass from time to time to express his respect to everyone present.

Hu Shi, Sun Ke and others also responded, and there was constant laughter and joy as the glasses clinked.

They talked about academics, ideals, and shared interesting stories of life in a foreign country. The atmosphere was warm and lively.

After dinner, everyone moved to the garden of the villa, which had been set up as a small salon venue.

In the center of the garden, under a huge white parasol, there are several comfortable sofas and coffee tables, on which are placed various snacks and books.

"In the afternoon, why don't we have a relaxing salon to talk about knowledge and life," Yue Wenxuan suggested.

Everyone readily agreed and took their seats.

Hu Shi spoke first. He picked up a book called "Outline of the History of Chinese Philosophy" and began to expound his unique insights into ancient Chinese philosophy.

His explanation was easy to understand and well-cited, which benefited everyone present.

Jin Yuelin supplemented and extended Hu Shi's views from the perspective of logic. His analysis was rigorous and profound, which made people deeply yearn for the beauty of logic.

Tao Xingzhi then changed the subject and talked about the current situation and challenges of rural education. His words were full of love and expectations for rural children. He hoped that through education, the face of the countryside could be changed so that every child could have a bright future.

Sun Ke combined his own political ideals and talked about the development and future of the country. His words revealed a firm belief and determination, which made everyone present feel his responsibility and commitment as the son of the founding father.

Before I knew it, the sky gradually darkened.

But the atmosphere in the garden became increasingly intense. Everyone seemed to have forgotten the passage of time and just wanted to continue chatting, learning and growing in this wonderful time.

Finally, when night fell and the stars twinkled, Yue Wenxuan announced the end of the salon.

After dinner, he personally saw off each guest and still arranged for a car to take them back to their residence.

A few days after this gathering, Hu Shi and his colleagues were scheduled to return home.

Yue Wenxuan specially prepared a gift of one thousand US dollars for each person. It was not a lot of money, but it was a token of his thoughtfulness.

With Hu Shi's financial resources, he was able to sponsor Ji Xianlin to study abroad with a sum of one thousand US dollars, so the gifts he prepared must not be too small.

If you give too much, I'm afraid people will refuse. This number is more appropriate and is well within everyone's acceptable range.

Everyone had some understanding of his financial resources and knew that this would not be a burden to him, so they gladly accepted it.