"Come in. These are mats for the kang (heated brick bed). The dust won't get through; they're woven very tightly. There are also some boxes over here, which can hold clothes and such. They also have locks; you can make your own lock."
"As for the other tables and chairs, you can choose whatever you need. Just exchange as many as you need, and don't waste them."
The two old men sat to one side talking, letting them choose for themselves.
"Brother Han, let's choose this big table, and then twelve chairs. I'll also get a new box to put our clothes in. Take a look and see what you need. Pick everything at once to save us the trouble."
Li Gang acted like a secretary, clearly arranging everything for the leader. Han Weidong, the manager, had an easy job, not having to do anything but keep order, while his subordinates did everything else.
Han Weidong chose a box and a washbasin stand. He also picked up a wooden basin because it looked nice.
"Li Gang, let's buy a few more mats for that room and cover the entire kang (heated brick bed) and the ceiling with them, so that we don't get dusty."
"Brother Han, that's a good idea. I was just wondering where I could find some old newspapers."
The two then picked out three more mats, which looked to be about the same size.
After they had chosen their items, the group came over to pay. The items weren't expensive; on average, each person only spent about ten yuan, which was much cheaper than in their city.
"The oxcarts are all busy right now, so we'll deliver them to you during the lunch break. If you need something urgently, just take it back yourself and choose the easiest one."
Grandpa Lin thought the children were doing well, so he gave them a few more words of advice.
"Alright, sir, let's take the mat back first so we can put the bedding on."
"Alright, go back now. If you need anything, just let me know at home. My son is the brigade leader, do you remember where he is?"
"I know, I know, thank you so much."
Carrying several mats and other light items, the group returned to the educated youth settlement.
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