A round table was laden with twenty-four lavish courses, a symbolic arrangement representing "all-encompassing elegance," "wealth from all directions," and "bountiful fortune."
In the world of business, it is impossible to avoid a faint whiff of greed. Yet, there are rules to be followed. If one partakes in the eight "all-encompassing elegance" dishes, it implies the host is there to build a connection and foster goodwill. If one eats the eight "wealth from all directions" dishes, it is an offering of gifts. Only when dining on the eight "bountiful fortune" dishes is it an invitation to conduct serious business. Some things left behind by our ancestors are dross, but others are quite useful. A dining table can communicate one's intentions through food and drink, significantly increasing efficiency.
"President Wang, we should withdraw the eight 'wealth from all directions' dishes. I am but a junior official; this is inappropriate."
Chapter 128