The booming of gongs announced the arrival of the good news in the village. Ah Q, having just gulped down two bowls of yellow wine, was gesticulating with his hands, stamping his feet, and explaining that this event reflected great honor upon himself because he and the Venerable Mr. Chao were of the same surname. By careful family exposition, he made it clear that he was more venerable than the Hsiu-t'sai by three geneological degrees. At this juncture, a few bystanders who had caught his high-sounding words, began to stand in awe of him.
But how was it to be expected that, on the day following, the ti-pao4 would summon Ah Q into the presence of the Venerable Mr. Chao? As soon as this man set eyes on Ah Q, his face lighted up with red fury.
"Ah Q, you stupid creature! Did you say that you were of the same surname as I?" he shouted.
Ah Q did not so much as open his mouth.
The more he looked at him the more infuriated the Venerable Mr. Chao became. He ran forward a few steps, exclaiming: "How dare you speak such nonsense! How could I have such a relative as you? Is your surname Chao?"
Ah Q remained silent, wishing to retreat to the rear, but the Venerable Mr. Chao rushed upon him and gave him a smack on the mouth.
