Lü Yu and his son packed their belongings, gave thanks, and took their leave, hiring a small boat to row out beyond the sluice. After traveling a few miles, they suddenly heard a great commotion along the riverbank — shouts and cries filling the air. Curious, Lü Yu stepped out of the cabin to ask the boatman what had happened. It turned out that a boat had capsized, and all aboard had fallen into the water.

A good deed brings unexpected reward

Lü Yu thought to himself: “To save a single life is greater than building a seven-tiered pagoda. I have here twenty taels of silver given by my in-laws — why not offer it as a reward for rescuing those people? That would be true merit.” He called out loudly: “Do not panic! I will provide a reward. Quickly rescue them! If you save everyone on that boat, twenty taels of silver are yours.” Hearing this, many small boats rushed forward to help, and even strong swimmers from the shore leaped into the water. In no time, all those on the capsized boat were saved. Lü Yu handed over the silver for them to divide, and the rescued passengers expressed endless gratitude.

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