Long ago, there lived two inseparable friends. One, Lưu Bình, came from a wealthy family, while the other, Dương Lễ, was born into poverty. Knowing that Dương Lễ lacked the means to pursue his studies, Lưu Bình kindly invited him to live in his home and supported him.
Aware of his humble origins, Dương Lễ was diligent and hardworking, while Lưu Bình, content with his wealth, grew lazy and extravagant.
As fate would have it, while Dương Lễ passed his final examination with flying colours, Lưu Bình failed, leaving him disheartened.
Dương Lễ went on to become a high-ranking official, living comfortably in a grand house in the capital. Meanwhile, Lưu Bình continued his idle, wasteful, and indulgent lifestyle. Before long, he had squandered his entire fortune and still had no degree to his name.
Amidst poverty, Lưu Bình remembered his old friend, who had risen to prominence. Hoping for help, he journeyed to the capital and sought out Dương Lễ.
But Dương Lễ, knowing his friend all too well, pretended to be cold and indifferent.
He understood that if he helped Lưu Bình too easily, his friend would remain lazy and unambitious.
“You are no friend of mine,” Dương Lễ sneered. “All my friends are wealthy and distinguished, not poor and uneducated like you.” He then called out, “Guards! Escort this man out. Give him some leftover rice and salt!”
Humiliated and disheartened that his friend had forgotten their lifelong bond, Lưu Bình returned to his village in sorrow, determined to study hard and one day erase this shame.
Meanwhile, Dương Lễ asked his beautiful third wife, Châu-Long, to disguise herself as a silk-selling maiden and visit Lưu Bình’s village. Her task was to befriend him, offer to stay with him and support him while he studied. She even promised they would marry once he completed his education.
Inspired by this promise, Lưu Bình studied day and night with unwavering dedication. When the next examination came, he passed with distinction. Overjoyed, he rushed home to share the good news with Châu-Long, only to find her gone.
Later, Lưu Bình was also invited to serve as a high-ranking official. Yet, he could not forget the humiliation Dương Lễ had once inflicted upon him.
Seeking revenge, he confronted Dương Lễ. But upon his arrival, Dương Lễ greeted him with open arms, showing no concern for his friend’s harsh words. He waited patiently for Lưu Bình’s anger to subside.
Then, Dương Lễ called for his wife, Châu-Long, to introduce her to his friend. At last, Lưu Bình realised that Dương Lễ, a true friend, had orchestrated everything to help him succeed. Overcome with emotion, the two friends ran to each other and embraced tightly.