"As for the Liao family's mother-in-law and daughter-in-law, knowing but not reporting and even helping to conceal, they have already violated the law. Considering they are first-time offenders and physically weak, they are to be punished with ten strokes of the cane to serve as a warning to others! Uncle Xiao, do you think that's acceptable?"

Xiao Hongtao nodded: "Chenchen's method is very good!"

The Jinquan villagers had heard that the County Magistrate was very fond of and protective of Ninth Sister Yang. They had never expected it to be true and now held Yang Mengchen in awe.

"Do any of the three of you have any objections?" Yang Mengchen asked the Liao family's mother-in-law and daughter-in-law and Mu Songlin indifferently.

All three said in unison: "No!" If it weren't for Ninth Sister Yang leading the effort to eradicate the epidemic, they would have long since died and would still be burdened with heavy sins.

Looking at Mu Songlin, Yang Mengchen spoke meaningfully: "Your parents passed away early, and the Grandma of the Liao family has also lost her only son. Are you willing to dedicate yourself to serving her and providing for her in her old age?"

"In my heart, my aunt is like my own mother. I am willing to serve my aunt and provide for her in her old age!" Mu Songlin answered with a resonant voice.

Yang Mengchen nodded silently, then turned to Xiao Hongtao and asked: "Uncle Xiao, I wonder if it might be possible to grant Mu Songlin a suspended sentence?

Firstly, Mu Songlin's crime is relatively minor, and he has shown signs of repentance. Secondly, the Liao family consists only of women and children, who need someone to take care of them;

Law does not stand aloof from humanity. Considering the actual situation, he won't be taken into custody but during his sentence, he can only stay in Jinquan Village under the supervision of the villagers, with the County Office sending people to inspect at any time;

If he abides by the laws and doesn't commit new crimes or if it's discovered that he hasn't committed any other past crimes, after the test period is over, his original sentence may be rescinded. Otherwise, the suspended sentence will be revoked, and he will be taken into custody immediately, not only to serve his original sentence but to receive an additional, harsher punishment;

Uncle Xiao, do you think this method could work?"

"Sir, this commoner is willing to guarantee for Mu Songlin!" Mu Songlin was honest, diligent, and warm-hearted, and the Clan Leader of Jinquan Village liked this young man very much.

"This commoner is willing to vouch for Mu Songlin!" The village chief nodded in agreement: With Mu Songlin around, the Liao family would have someone to rely on.

"This commoner is also willing to guarantee for Mu Songlin!" The Lizheng followed, expressing his willingness.

"This commoner too!" Several elders said in unison, and all the Jinquan villagers subsequently indicated their willingness to vouch for Mu Songlin.

Moved to tears, the Liao family's mother-in-law and daughter-in-law along with Mu Songlin knelt down and repeatedly kowtowed to everyone: "Thank you, everyone, thank you!"

Looking at the united and harmonious Jinquan villagers, Xiao Hongtao was very satisfied: "Since all of you are willing, and this method does not contravene the law, this official shall permit it. But you must constantly supervise Mu Songlin and ensure that no further illegal activities occur. Otherwise, you will bear joint liability. Understood?"

"This commoner understands!" The villagers of Jinquan Village breathed a sigh of relief upon hearing this, for they believed in Mu Songlin and were thus willing to take on the responsibility.

"This commoner (woman) offers thanks for the Magistrate's kindness!" The Liao family's mother-in-law and daughter-in-law and Mu Songlin kowtowed to thank Xiao Hongtao, then turned to heavily kowtow three times to Yang Mengchen: "Thank you, Ninth Sister Yang, for your great kindness and grace, which we will never forget in our lifetimes.

In the next life, even if we become cows or horses, we will repay your grace!"

Helping the Grandma of the Liao family to her feet, Yang Mengchen advised: "I hope you will always maintain this simple and kind-hearted nature, and never again commit such foolish acts, especially you, Mu Songlin. As a man, you should be upright and honest, courageous and accountable, not disregarding the law for personal reasons."

"I will remember your teachings!" Mu Songlin had already come to a deep realization and was immensely grateful to Yang Mengchen, willing to follow whatever she said.

The Liao family's mother-in-law and daughter-in-law also blushed with shame and hurriedly expressed they would always remember Yang Mengchen's admonition.

"Mu Songlin, remember what you just said. Serve the Grandma of the Liao family with all your heart, and provide for her in her old age." Seeing Mu Songlin nod seriously, Yang Mengchen handed a small porcelain bottle to Fang Qin: "This is a healing medicine I made myself. Apply it to the wounds, and they will heal in three days."

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