The lecturer intent on sowing discord blushed with shame, knowing that if he continued, this pedantic and useless person would really turn against him, and might even repeat his words to Mo Qingze, thus seeking to curry favor and move up in rank.
Considering this possibility, the lecturer even resented the well-intentioned Servant Meng, but he quickly apologized, "Brother Meng, it was my foolishness. I spoke without thinking, and I hope you won't take it to heart. I won't say such things again."
Servant Meng didn't know the other's true thoughts and, seeing that he acknowledged his mistake, naturally refrained from lecturing further, but couldn't help reminding him, "Such words must never be mentioned again. If you feel dissatisfied with Mr. Mo, you could learn more from him. Over time, you'll realize that what I've said wasn't just flattery."
"Yes, yes, I thank Brother Meng for the reminder," the lecturer agreed hastily, his true thoughts known only to himself.