Zhao Erhu had been silently observing without expressing his opinion. After they finished discussing, he said, "I understand, but I need to discuss this matter with my wife when I get home. She's in charge of our silver."
By saying that, Zhao Erhu was actually showing his reluctance to contribute the money. It wasn't that he coveted that bit of silver; he just didn't want to be outmaneuvered by Zhao Quan and Zhao Xing. Even if he had to spend money, it wouldn't be in this manner. Having the silver end up in Zhao Quan and Zhao Xing's pockets pained him more than cutting his own flesh, so he deliberately used this excuse. He didn't feel anything wrong with a man like himself being managed by his wife, and besides, he had already promised Li Xiaomei that they would make decisions together regarding family affairs, and he wouldn't make any unilateral decisions.