The next morning, Weng called Cherry’s old boss at the factory,

then got in touch with the Beijing School for Blind Children

that his son attended.

The principal of the school listened to Fun Weng’s proposal,

then suggested they meet that afternoon in person at her office.

After a tour of the facilities, Weng reiterated his willingness

to make a donation, but humbly requested that a gifted

engineer he knows

be allowed to visit the school and give

elementary lessons in mechanics.

“Of course!” Said the principal, “We always welcome

skilled volunteers, as we do donations of any sort.

Did you have a figure in mind, Mr. Fun?”

“Yes,” Weng said, “but there isn’t enough space on the

check for all the zeros, so I’ll be sending cash if that’s okay.”

The principal was silent for a moment, then burst out laughing.

“For a moment there, Mr. Fun, I thought you were serious.”