Meanwhile, Yang Mengchen ordered her workers to pick some green grapes and guided the winery staff in making white wine and raisins from them.
The mulberry wine and white wine were brewed, sealed in jars, and stored deep within Dayang Mountain.
The one happiest about the wines being made was none other than Song Bochao. Unfortunately, Yang Mengchen said that the white wine had to be stored for at least a month and the mulberry wine for more than three months before they could be drunk, which had him counting the days eagerly.
As fruits like peaches, green apples, plums, and watermelons ripened in succession, aside from selling them, Yang Mengchen also taught her workers how to make candied fruits and fruit wine.
Yang Mengchen sent some of the new products to various households, of course not forgetting the Imperial Palace (in the name of Long Yingtong) and the Grand Prince Mansion, but only in small quantities. Also, some were sent to Youming Palace and Saber Rattling Villa.
On top of that, she prepared candied fruits, shredded dried meat, pickled vegetables, chili sauce, a few jars of sorghum wine, and clothes, packing two carts full of goods to send to the frontier for Yang Chengning.
The recipients were delighted with the gifts and sent their own in return.
Yang Chengning wrote back, saying the soldiers enjoyed the items, especially the shredded dried meat and chili sauce, while General Ye fancied the sorghum wine.
Knowing the harsh conditions at the border, Yang Mengchen arranged for a cart of food to be sent there every month, though rarely including alcoholic beverages; but that's another story.
In the blink of an eye, the entire Anping County started harvesting wheat, and Yang Mengchen gave the workers a five-day leave.
With superior seeds, and under the guise of Xiao Hongtao, Yang Chengrong arranged for technical staff to regularly guide the villagers in fertilization and pest control. This year's wheat yield more than doubled from previous years, leaving the villagers overjoyed and in tears. Plus, with the Emperor having reduced taxes for three years, they were deeply grateful to Xiao Hongtao.
Other county magistrates, upon hearing the news, were envious but could do nothing about it, except try to ingratiate themselves with Xiao Hongtao.
Bei Mingchuan was very pleased, but Prince Chen had already made a point, so he did not report it to the Imperial Court.
As for the second season of wheat, which had not been tested, Yang Mengchen was uncertain, so she asked Xiao Hongtao to explain the situation clearly to the villagers, relying entirely on their willingness to participate.
The neighboring villages of Yangliu village naturally responded, and unexpectedly, the villagers from other villages were willing too. Yang Mengchen promptly arranged for technical staff to supervise the villagers in tilling the land and hasten the planting of the wheat seeds, while Yang Chengrong had already cultivated the same quantity of seeds as before.
The Academy began its summer break, with most teachers and female instructors returning to their homes.
Yang Chengyou and his three peers were about to take part in the provincial exams. Old Hai stayed behind to supervise their studies. Song Bochao claimed he stayed to tutor Yang Chengbin in his studies, but in reality, he was simply eager for a taste of the treats.
With no one to look after the village children, the teachers who were now free from their duties during the summer took the opportunity to organize summer hobby classes, a perfect solution for all.
The hospital was completed, and Yang Mengchen chose an auspicious day to officially open it for business, with people from several households coming to congratulate her.
The Grand Prince and Long Xuanmo were preoccupied and couldn't attend, but they sent trusted representatives bearing gifts, as did Prince Ning.
The spacious and bright lobby and wards, the illustrative signs, the clean and organized sickrooms, and the friendly smiles of the nurses all attracted many people on opening day. With clear pricing and reasonable fees, as well as staff on duty around the clock, the public naturally praised the facility highly.
Yao Chuanbai and Zhang Duheng moved into their townhouses, and Yang Mengchen arranged for people to take care of their daily needs, including a pair of apprentices (Elite Guards) for each. The male and female nurses trained by Jing Xiuyu were already in place, and additionally, Doctor Luo brought over all the doctors from Apricot Forest Hall.
As for the distribution of staff and assignments, Yang Mengchen left it to Yang Cheng'an to organize, with her assistance from the sidelines.
After staying at the hospital for a few days, Yang Cheng'an, although a bit inexperienced, handled affairs competently and smoothly. With Uncle Luo's guidance, Yang Mengchen left for home feeling reassured, accompanied by Sister Jin and the others.
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