Housekeeper Han said, "I’m not trying to criticize, but what’s the rush? At your age, you should take things easier. Some people just don’t understand that slow is smooth, and smooth is fast."

"Alright, alright, I’ll slow down a bit." Housekeeper Cao instinctively reached for his side, but didn’t bring his small teapot; without something to sip, he felt a bit uncomfortable.

At this moment, it was Wan Accountant’s turn.

Before he spoke, he covered his mouth with a handkerchief and coughed lightly a few times.

Housekeeper Cao squeezed his eyes shut tightly.

Wan Accountant softly said, "Marquis, Madam, I’ve cross-checked these account books several times. Besides finding a few gaps, I also perceive some areas of concern."

"Oh?"

Qin Yuan raised her eyebrows, saying, "What have you found? Feel free to speak."

Housekeeper Cao was taken aback, nudged Housekeeper Han at his side, and whispered, "Did I hear wrong? Did he say he reviewed it several times?"

Housekeeper Han moved his body outward and replied dully, "You didn’t hear wrong."

Housekeeper Cao listened blankly to Wan Accountant speaking.

"I found that although this shop has many types of goods, only a few actually sell and make a profit. The goods acquired a few years ago are now worth little yet remain on the books, unaddressed. Although the accounts show no apparent write-offs, in reality, losses have accumulated."

Qin Yuan nodded.

Housekeeper Cao beamed with a smile.

Wan Accountant continued, "The goods that do sell have slim profits, just barely balancing expenses. The shopkeeper hasn’t tried selling other goods to generate revenue; that’s one issue. Additionally, when goods are wrongly procured, they should be discounted and cleared to recover capital before purchasing new stock. Overall, the shopkeeper lacks foresight, is insufficiently diligent, and doesn’t dare make decisive calls. Thus, future shop success is unlikely. Replacing the shopkeeper is necessary for improvement."

Housekeeper Cao couldn’t contain his excitement and nudged Housekeeper Han again.

Housekeeper Han: "..."

Gu Jinghui suddenly inquired, "Could it be that the shopkeeper is just unlucky?"

Wan Accountant shook his head and softly replied, "A Marquis needs provisions on the battlefield yet never concerns himself with the luck of the grain transport officer. Managing provisions is crucial to victory or defeat."

Marquis Gu nodded.

Wan Accountant said, "The goods in the shop are effectively provisions. If the shopkeeper can’t manage the flow of these goods, it’s his dereliction, and the business is bound to fail."

Marquis Gu bent his hand into a fist, gently tapped the table, and looked at Wan Accountant, "Indeed, your words are very true."

Qin Yuan chuckled, "Wan Accountant, many say your family has been in the military managing provisions for generations, a family legacy. Today I see, indeed, you live up to the reputation."

Hong Ye couldn’t help but laugh.

Housekeeper Cao slapped his thigh, saying, "Good lad, recommending you wasn’t in vain."

Housekeeper Han glared at him, "Shh."

Wan Accountant coughed a few more times before saying, "I’m not in good health and haven’t inherited much skill from my ancestors. But with nothing to do while sick, I often pondered over ledgers, leading to more insights."

This person is truly humble.

Qin Yuan told everyone, "In terms of accounting skills, all of you present are very proficient. Even if some were somewhat careless earlier, it was due to nerves, not their regular conduct. It’s just that with the Marquis here, everyone is inevitably tensed."

The accountants collectively let out a sigh of relief, gratefully looking towards Qin Yuan.

Qin Yuan continued, "I believe Wan Accountant is more suited for managing the general ledger. Does anyone have any objection?"

"We have no objections." 𝗳𝚛𝗲𝕖𝚠𝚎𝚋𝗻𝗼𝕧𝗲𝐥.𝚌𝚘𝐦

"We fully agree."

Wan Accountant humbly said, "Thank you, Marchioness, for the recognition. I will do my utmost."

Qin Yuan asked, "But are you sure your health can bear such a heavy responsibility?"

Wan Accountant replied, "It’s not a problem; I’ve had health issues from a young age and have gradually improved. Accounting from a young age has become instinctual."

Marquis Gu said, "Your ancestors excelled in managing provisions in the army, even earning honors. I can request Doctor Li from Renhe Hall to provide treatment. If he can fully treat you, your skills can be well passed down. What do you say?"

Wan Accountant hesitated.

Housekeeper Cao grew anxious and was about to speak.

Housekeeper Han quickly gripped his hand.

Realizing, Housekeeper Cao hurriedly shut his mouth.

Qin Yuan smiled, "Wan Accountant, no need to decline. Brother Qi and his mother were treated by Doctor Li. Recently, I heard Brother Qi’s mother nearly regained her sight. Who knows, Doctor Li may cure your ailment too. Renhe Hall has close ties with the mansion, and the consultation fees align with our annual gift exchanges. Doctor Li’s acupuncture is marvelous and will soon show results."

This suggests his costs, like Old Lady Qi’s, will be borne by the Marquis Mansion, and it won’t cost much.

Wan Accountant immediately said, "Thank you, Marquis, and Madam, for your care. I will forever remember this kindness."

Marquis Gu smiled, "Just do your job well. I trust with you managing the general ledger, the estate’s businesses will flourish, and many people’s livelihoods depend on you."

Hearing this, Wan Accountant felt a bit nervous, stammering.

Qin Yuan quickly added, "The Marquis is right. Although the estate currently doesn’t lack silver coin, as the saying goes, spending doesn’t lead to poverty, but lack of planning does. With Wan Accountant’s management, we can continually support those who have served with the Marquis."

With these words, the look in everyone’s eyes towards Marquis Gu and Wan Accountant changed.

The future of their descendants is closely tied with the estate.

The thrive of the Marquis Mansion means a better life for their descendants.

Wan Accountant said, "Rest assured, Marquis, and Madam, I will do my utmost."

Marquis Gu nodded.

"Your ancestors did well, and I trust you."

Wan Accountant was deeply moved.

Qin Yuan said, "Since the general accountant has been chosen, it’s time to appoint the housekeeper for the inner courtyard."

Everyone looked at Steward Qian standing on the outskirts.

Hong Ye laughed, "Steward Qian, you’re standing too far. You should move closer to Housekeeper Cao and Housekeeper Han."

Qin Yuan smiled, "Hong Ye, you should now call him Housekeeper Qian."

Steward Qian beamed with joy, stepping forward to bow to Marquis Gu and Qin Yuan, "This old servant will diligently manage the inner courtyard, easing the burden on the Marquis and Madam."

Marquis Gu lightly lifted his eyelids, saying casually, "You must take Housekeeper Zhang as a caution."

Housekeeper Qian quickly said, "I won’t be like him, ungrateful and disrespectful. My family has served the estate for generations, and my descendants will continue to serve faithfully."

Marquis Gu cleared his throat and said, "This mindset is best."

His gaze, sharp as lightning, swept over everyone present.

"Sun Accountant and Housekeeper Zhang have both received severe punishment. While traitors typically face death, because Sixth Master is still dealing with the Xu family in court, their lives are spared for now. If you betray from within, this is your fate, not just losing family honor but also implicating relatives and kin!"