During this time, Gu Dexing threw a tantrum, kneeling and pleading with Gu Dafu for a whole day and night, even taking out the letter written by Scholar Shang, saying he wanted to study at the private school in the town. He was certain that with ten years of study, he would surely pass the exams and earn an official position, and studying at Songzi Gully was ruining his future prospects.
Gu Dafu did not agree. He said that the town was bustling and home to many wealthy families, fearing that if Gu Dexing went to study there, his temper might become even more restless. He suggested that Gu Dexing should first spend a year or two studying at Songzi Gully. If he became calmer and more stable, then he could be sent to a private school in the town.
