ABSTRACT
I was often amazed by the seemingly inexhaustible social connections of Ye. He knew many important people in the commune, the district, and the city offices on whom he could call in time of need. When Lin Qishan, my landlord, who hauled bricks in a used truck, was arrested by traffic police for speeding in Xiamen City, both Lin and his truck were detained by the police. At that point the city had just issued a set of strict regulations to improve the chaotic traffic conditions in downtown Xiamen. The traffic police were ready to enforce these new laws on early violators to set an example for others. It seemed that Lin Qishan would be heavily fined, and perhaps even spend a few weeks in jail.
