“County Head Clark, hello. My name is William Bolton, I’m also from Liziping Town, and I’m currently studying in the Youth Cadre Training Class. Since the township leaders are here, I came specially today to report on my studies at the Party School.” William Bolton said calmly and confidently.

“Youth Cadre Training Class?” Henry Clark smiled and immediately encouraged, “That class is the cradle of our Party’s cadres! You must seize this opportunity!” He then reached out to shake hands with William Bolton.

After some polite exchanges between host and guests, since the room was too small, Samuel Foster and Eric Brooks could only sit temporarily on the bed, while William Bolton had to stand. At this moment, the hotel attendant had already arrived, served everyone tea, and then left.

“Secretary Foster, Township Head Brooks, I’ve just arrived in Yongping, and I’m still in the dark about many things. I’ll be counting on your support in the future!” Henry Clark said with a smile.

Of course, Samuel Foster and Eric Brooks nodded repeatedly. The conversation soon turned to the situation in Liziping. During the discussion, Samuel Foster mentioned the difficulties faced by Liziping and expressed hope that the county committee would provide more support for its economic development.

“Secretary Foster, as far as I know, although Liziping is relatively remote, it still has its advantages! What are your thoughts on the next stage of development for Liziping? Let’s just chat casually!” Henry Clark said.

Samuel Foster and Eric Brooks exchanged a glance. They did have a plan, but it had just been overturned, and for a moment, they didn’t know how to respond. However, Samuel Foster was an old hand; after a brief pause, he said, “Little William, why don’t you talk about it? You young people are more articulate. If there’s anything missing, Township Head Brooks and I will add to it.” He then glanced at Henry Clark and explained, “Little William is currently also serving as the township government secretary. He’s a knowledgeable young man and has been a great help to us old-timers!”

William Bolton found this amusing, but he had to admit that experience does come with age. By having him speak, even if he didn’t do well, it wouldn’t leave a bad impression on the leaders, and it would also earn Samuel Foster a reputation for nurturing young talent—a clever move that killed two birds with one stone.

Of course, this was also an opportunity for William Bolton. After a brief moment of thought to organize his ideas, he said, “County Head Clark, you’re absolutely right. Although Liziping is a remote mountainous area, we do have our own advantages. In recent years, under the leadership of Secretary Foster and Township Head Brooks, Liziping has achieved remarkable results, which I don’t need to elaborate on. For the next stage of our economic work, we still plan to focus on tea and flue-cured tobacco. Liziping Township is located near the 30th parallel north, which is very suitable for tea cultivation. Tea has always been a traditional strength of our township. Next, we…”

William Bolton spoke at length for ten minutes, covering everything in detail—from the management of tea trees by local farmers to the production, processing, sales, and brand building of tea. His speech was not only professional but also very practical, with a particular emphasis on the transformation of government functions and the government’s role in overall planning and guidance.

He then talked about the development strategy for flue-cured tobacco, proposing specific ideas on how to develop tobacco while protecting forest resources. Every word was closely aligned with the central government’s directives on sustainable development, and everyone nodded in agreement. The eyes of Samuel Foster and Eric Brooks even sparkled with excitement.

Opportunities always favor the prepared. The reason William Bolton could say so much was not only due to his past experience but also his recent diligent study—not just of matters, but of people. He had already figured out Henry Clark’s background, so he tailored his words to Henry Clark’s preferences.

Sure enough, after listening to William Bolton’s report, Henry Clark gave him a meaningful look. William Bolton was confident that the county magistrate would remember him. At the same time, William Bolton also observed Charles Harris’s expression and noticed that he, too, was slightly moved, though his deep composure kept it from showing on his face.

“Hmm, Little William, that was well said! It seems your Liziping leadership team is quite strong! That puts my mind at ease.” Henry Clark said lightly, as if not showing much interest.

After that, he chatted casually with Samuel Foster and the others for a few more moments, then excused himself, saying he needed to visit Yanshan Township. With Samuel Foster and the others seeing him off, he left the room.

“Little William, do you think you might have misjudged? Why did County Head Clark seem a bit indifferent?” After seeing the leaders off, Eric Brooks asked worriedly.

William Bolton smiled and said, “Township Head Brooks, County Head Clark is newly appointed—how could he express his position so easily? Don’t worry! Township Head Brooks, we must trust our leaders! As long as our policies are supported by the people, they are good policies, don’t you think?”

Samuel Foster nodded and said, “This young County Head Clark is not ordinary. Little William is right. We must not waver in our plan; going back and forth would only leave a bad impression on the leaders. Little William, I’ll leave this matter to you. Work a little overtime tonight and put what you just said into writing. When we get back, I’ll recommend you for a commendation!”

William Bolton smiled modestly, repeatedly thanking the leaders for their trust. Then, seeing that everything was settled, William Bolton took his leave and went home.