It was getting late. Grandpa ate the two bowls of cornmeal porridge left over from lunch, then instructed Xiao Man to cook white rice for dinner since they had a guest. Afterward, he prepared to leave to guard the reservoir.
He picked up a hatchet and hung it at his waist, then slung a bamboo basket onto his back. Xiao Man rushed over and handed Grandpa a bamboo canteen filled with water.
She had prepared it specially, mixing in some spiritual spring water.
Grandpa said, "Just give me the empty canteen. The spring water in the mountains is perfectly fine. You should save the boiled water at home for yourselves to drink!"
Xiao Man insisted, "The spring water is too cold! If you drink too much, you'll get a stomachache. Grandpa, you have to take care of your health. It's one thing to have a few sips when you're out and have no other choice, but at home, it's best to drink boiled water when it's available!"
