Chapter 142 I’m determined to take this back door!
Tan's cuisine, one of the most famous official dishes in China, is the family banquet of Tan Zongjun, a bureaucrat in the late Qing Dynasty. Because he was the second runner-up in the imperial examination in the second year of the Tongzhi reign, it is also called "Bangyan cuisine."
After the founding of the People's Republic of China, the inheritance of the Tan family began to suffer problems. In addition, all the wealthy customers who had spent lavishly and indulged in luxury had disappeared, and Tan's cuisine fell into a development dilemma for a time.
It was not until 1954 that the beloved great man heard about the situation of Tan’s cuisine and took the initiative to propose incorporating Tan’s cuisine into the catering system of the Yanjing Hotel to receive foreign guests and showcase the profound Chinese food culture.
In October of that year, the Tan family cuisine team moved into the restaurant on the 7th floor of the west building of Yanjing Hotel.
Entering the restaurant, Lin Weimin asked Ma Ke Neng and others to pick a table far away from Zheng Guo and the others, for fear of disturbing him and Yao Shuzhi.
Zheng Guo pretended not to see him, and handed the menu to Yao Shuzhi with a smile, "Shuzhi, you order!"
Yao Shuzhi looked at the prices on the menu and said, "Zheng Guo, why don't we eat out? It's too expensive here!"
Zheng Guo pretended to smile and said, "It's okay. I'm happy to treat you to a meal. I don't care how much it costs."
Lin Weimin handed the menu to Xiao Hei Yangzi, "Yangzi, let's order too!"
Xiao Hei Yoko hesitated for a moment. She had been to the Yanjing Hotel before and knew that the prices here were a bit expensive for Chinese people at that time.
"It's okay. Today is my treat."
Zheng Guo's Grandet can spend a lot of money today, so Lin Weimin doesn't mind showing off. It just so happens that he hasn't tasted the famous Tan family cuisine in Yanjing yet.
A few people ordered dishes. Following the waiter's suggestion, they ordered Baizhan Chicken and Dengying Beef as cold dishes, Braised Shark's Fin and Koumogaicai as hot dishes, Suhe as dessert, and finally Tremella Soup.
Six dishes are just right for four people.
After ordering the dishes, Lin Weimin told Mark Meng and the others about the long history of Tan’s cuisine. Mark Meng couldn’t help but look surprised when he heard that the history was more than a hundred years.
"Lin, your Chinese culture has a very long history. It's amazing that a family of chefs can be passed down for such a long time."
"Old Ma, I'm not just an ordinary cook. I once was a runner-up in the imperial examination, and my ancestors were also very wealthy."
Several people were chatting and laughing, looking forward to the delicious food that would be served.
"Keith? Is that you?"
A voice interrupted the conversation between Lin Weimin and others.
Mark Meng turned around and looked with surprise.
"Uncle Qiao Sen, why are you here?"
The middle-aged man had brown curly hair, was tall and wore a suit, which reminded Lin Weimin of the white-collar elites who worked in offices in later generations.
"You know, I work for Random House. China has just opened up, and many people in the country are very interested in this ancient and mysterious country. The company plans to introduce a batch of publications from China. So, I came here."
Uncle Qiaosen briefly introduced to Mark Meng the reasons for his coming to China, and then asked, "How about you? How is your stay in China? I heard from your father a long time ago that you chose to study in China."
Mark Meng smiled and said: "I have a good time in China and learned a lot of valuable knowledge."
"By the way, these are my friends..." Mark Meng introduced Lin Weimin and others to Uncle Qiao Sen.
After the two sides greeted each other, Lin Weimin said to Ma Kemeng, "It's better to meet by chance than to invite each other. Old Ma, we can have lunch with your uncle."
Mark Meng happily invited Uncle Qiao Sen, and he readily agreed.
After sitting down and chatting, Lin Weimin found out that Qiao Sen and Mark Meng’s father were what the Chinese call “faxiao”. They grew up together and still have a good relationship.
He currently works in the public relations department of Random House and came to China because the company wants to plan a series of books about Chinese culture.
"What a coincidence, Uncle Qiaosen." Mark Meng excitedly picked up the People's Literature in his hand and said, "Do you know that Lin is an outstanding writer in China? Not only that, he is also a staff member of the largest publishing organization in China. I think you must have common topics."
Qiao Sen looked at Lin Weimin in surprise, "What a coincidence..."
At the dinner table, Qiao Sen only knew Mark Meng, and was a little awkward at first. But now he and Lin Weimin had common topics, and the atmosphere at the table was harmonious.
The dishes were served one after another. The foreigners at the table were eating with their mouths drooling, and even Lin Weimin, a Chinese, was no exception.
Lin Weimin didn’t know how the later generations’ Tan family cuisine tasted, but as for the Tan family cuisine served at the Yanjing Hotel in 1981, it was indeed very good.
"Lin, thank you very much for your generous lunch!"
After finishing the meal, Qiao Sen wiped his mouth and said with a smile.
"You're welcome, Mr. Williams."
Uncle Johnson's full name is Johnson Williams.
Because he had something else to do later, Qiao Sen said goodbye after chatting for a few minutes.
Before leaving, he took out a book from his briefcase. "This is Oliver Twist, published by Random House. It's a classic that I like very much. Lin, your English is so good, it shouldn't be difficult to read. It's nice to meet you today, and thank you for the lunch."
The English version of "Oliver Twist" is obviously a frequently read book and is a favorite of the owner.
Lin Weimin gladly accepted the book. The price of the gift was not important; what was important was the thought behind it. Qiao Sen’s gift touched his heart.
"Uncle Qiao Sen, wait a minute!"
When Mark Meng saw that Qiao Sen gave Lin Weimin a book, he happened to think of the "People's Literature" he had just read.
"This is one of the most famous literary magazines in China. Lin has published a novel there before. If you have time, you can take a look at it."
Qiao Sen laughed, "Silly boy! Do you think your uncle can understand Chinese?"
Mark Meng was stunned for a moment. He had become accustomed to reading Chinese, so he reacted subconsciously. He was about to speak when Qiao Sen took the People's Literature from him and said with a smile, "Thank you anyway. This book will become one of the most treasured works on my bookshelf."
Mark Meng smiled happily and said, "Uncle Qiao Sen, actually Lin wrote an English novel before, and I helped translate it. It was published in the Ellery Queen Mystery Magazine."
"Really?" Qiao Sen was surprised. He didn't expect that someone in isolated China had published a work in an American magazine. "Then I must read it later."
"I believe you won't be disappointed." Mark Meng said proudly.
"Is it because of your translation?"
Mark Meng said: “And Lin’s literary talent!”
"I'll wait and see."
Qiao Sen left the restaurant with a smile on his face.
Lin Weimin said to Mark Meng: "Old Ma, thank you."
"You are welcome."
Everyone has just noticed that Mark Meng was recommending Lin Weimin's "Farewell My Concubine" to Qiao Sen.
Unfortunately, Mr. Qiao Sen did not take up the topic but cleverly avoided it.
Human relationships are human relationships, and work is work. Uncle Qiao Sen makes the distinctions very clear.
"Lin, I'm not doing this for your sake, but because Farewell My Concubine is so good that I can't help but want to let American readers see its charm."
"That's right! Mr. Lin, given the outstanding level of "Farewell My Concubine", there will definitely be a large number of publishing houses rushing to publish it in the future. You don't need to worry about it at all." Xiao Heiyangzi said confidently.
She looked at Lin Weimin with dark eyes full of admiration. She was secretly glad that Mark Meng's recommendation was not successful, otherwise her plan would have failed.
Lin Weimin noticed the look in Xiao Heiyangzi's eyes and was instinctively a little scared.
Female donor, please let this poor monk go west.
He gave little Hei Yoko a charming smile. Yoko was really getting better and better at speaking.
Lin Weimin finished his lunch and when he paid the bill, Mark Meng used foreign exchange coupons, and Lin Weimin gave him RMB.
This lunch cost Lin Weimin 42 yuan, which was equivalent to a month's salary for a mature worker of that era. It was indeed expensive, but worth it.
Not to mention the taste, the most important thing when entertaining someone for a meal is face. Choosing the Yanjing Hotel as the venue and serving Tan’s cuisine will not lose its status even after forty years.
Zheng Guo and Yao Shuzhi also finished their lunch and met at the restaurant entrance.
Yao Shuzhi is still a little shy, but Zheng Guo, who was a little embarrassed at the beginning, now feels quite proud.
"Weimin, thank you so much for today. I plan to go to Beihai Park with Shuzhi this afternoon."
Lin Weimin joked, "I understand, I understand. We, the light bulbs, won't disturb your world of two."
Zheng Guo smiled happily. Yao Shuzhi stared at Lin Weimin with almond eyes, "What nonsense are you talking about?"
"I'm just talking nonsense. But you two should remember that I'm your matchmaker."
Zheng Guo laughed and said, "Don't worry, I will definitely not forget it."
Yao Shuzhi glared at Lin Weimin in shame and anger, "Let's go, don't bother with him, he's not a decent person."
Zheng Guo ran quickly to catch up with Yao Shuzhi.
Lin Weimin looked at the two people's backs. From now on, there will be one more henpecked husband in the world!
So, what do love and marriage bring to men?
Oh!
The next day at work, Lin Weimin asked Yao Shuzhi in a servile manner, "Sister Yao, you look very energetic today?"
"What's it to you?" Yao Shuzhi rolled her eyes at him.
Lin Weimin coughed twice and said seriously, "Let's be serious. Are you planning to get together with Zheng Guo?"
Two blushes appeared on Yao Shuzhi's face. She hesitated for a moment, then nodded and said "hmm".
"That's good. I feel relieved now. My efforts as a matchmaker have not been in vain."
"Thank you, Weimin." Yao Shuzhi said in a low voice.
"You're welcome. Just tell me what you want to say." Lin Weimin said sarcastically.
After get off work in the evening, Lin Weimin rushed to the People's Art Theatre. He first had a meeting with Ouyang Shanzun and Lan Yinhai.
The script of "Farewell My Concubine" is still being polished. Ouyang Shanzun suggested that if it really doesn't work, Cheng Dieyi could try using opera actors.
"That's one way."
Lin Weimin had no objection to this. He had thought about it during this period. All his impressions of "Farewell My Concubine" came from the movie. Even if the People's Art Theater chose a national-level actor to play the role of Cheng Dieyi, it would still not meet his standards. It would be better to give this power completely to the People's Art Theater.
Of course, there is another reason why Lin Weimin did this.
"Teacher Ouyang, has the role of Fourth Master Yuan been decided?"
Ouyang Shanzun said: "No, the leading role has not been decided yet, so I won't consider the supporting role for the time being. However, there are many people in our theater who are suitable for the role of Fourth Master Yuan, so it won't delay anything."
"That's not what I meant." Lin Weimin said embarrassedly, "It's like this. I have a good friend who is a movie actor at the Bayi Film Studio. He has always dreamed of playing a drama. When Farewell My Concubine was written, I promised to give him the role of Master Yuan Si. You see..."
Ouyang Shanzun frowned, "This..."
After a moment's silence, he said, "Teacher Lin, it's not that I don't give you face, but it seems that there is no precedent for this in our People's Art Theatre. Otherwise, why don't you ask Dean Yu?"
Lin Weimin knew that this matter was not that easy, so he nodded and said, "Okay, I'll go ask him later."
After talking about the drama, Lin Weimin came out of the rehearsal room and went to Yi Shizhi's office.
After exchanging a few polite words with Yi Shizhi, he told him about Chen Xiaoer's matter.
Yi Shizhi also hesitated for a long time, and Lin Weimin said: "Please give me a hand, even if it's just playing a B role."
Yi Shizhi said, "How about this. I will arrange a secondment for him, so that he can act in the People's Art Theatre with full justification. As for the Bayi Film Studio, Teacher Lin, you have to let him figure it out on his own."
Lin Weimin said happily: "Chengchengcheng, thank you so much, Teacher Yu."
After finishing talking about this matter, Lin Weimin said: "There is one more thing I want to ask you."
"You say."
"Has the People's Art Theatre decided on the recruitment schedule for this year?"
"Not yet. But according to the usual practice, it's usually in early to mid-September. Are you planning to..."
Lin Weimin said, "My nephew is studying acting and will soon graduate from Yanying. I'm thinking of enrolling him in our People's Art Theatre."
Then his eyes rolled and he thought to himself, this is a good thing!
The National Theatre of China is not short of good actors now, but what it lacks is good scripts.
Over the past year, Lin Weimin's performance has fully demonstrated his talent in drama creation.
He is Mr. Wan's disciple, and currently he provides scripts to the People's Art Theatre entirely out of Mr. Wan's favor.
But the problem is that Mr. Wan is now in his seventies and he may pass away at any time. When that time comes, it is hard to say whether the People's Art Theatre will still be able to invite Lin Weimin.
Now he wants his nephew to enter the National Theatre of China. Doesn't this add another layer to the relationship?
Not to mention that his nephew is a graduate of Yanying, so his major is suitable for him.
So they made up their mind that as long as this nephew could read the script fluently, they would hire him.
I'm determined to take this back door!
"No problem! No problem! I'll tell you in advance that registration will start soon. During this time, you can bring your nephew here to meet our teachers so that he can prepare."
Lin Weimin was surprised and said, "Isn't this... bad?"
Yi Shizhi waved his hand and said, "What's wrong with that? Teacher Lin, you are now a member of our People's Art Theater, and your nephew is also a member of our People's Art Theater. What's wrong with our family members coming to visit the theater?"
Teacher Yu is worthy of being a performing artist. His speech was sonorous, powerful and resounding, and his words were righteous and stern. Lin Weimin said that he had learned something new.
"Thank you very much."
"Teacher Lin, you are too polite. Your business is our business."
For the sake of the script, Teacher Yu’s moral integrity was shattered.
"Teacher Lin..." Yi Shizhi said, carefully considering his tone.
"Teacher Yu, please tell me."
"In fact, we have quite a few pretty girls in the National Theatre..."
Lin Weimin was shocked. Teacher Yu, when did you change your career?
"Hehe, thank you for your kindness, Mr. Yu. I'm not in a hurry at my age."
His words reminded Yi Shizhi, who would have forgotten that Teacher Lin is only in his early twenties this year and is in the prime of his youth!
Yi Shizhi leaned back in his chair and recalled his youthful days. It’s so good to be young!
Four thousand words.
(End of this chapter)
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