What is a "top, hat"? Have you ever worn such a hat? It is said that the best way of flattering(奉承) someone is to give him a "top hat" to wear. Almost everyone will fell happy in his face when others praise him even though it's not exactly true. Here is a story.
A student was going to leave the capital to become an official in a city far away.
Before he started, he came to say goodbye to his teacher first, "You must be strict with yourself and take care of yourself," his teacher said, "It's not an easy job to be a good official," "I know it's hard. But don't worry about me, Sir." the student answered, "I have already prepared one hundred " top hats ", which will make those people quite happy. "
"But we are real gentlemen! How could a real gentleman do such a thing?" His teacher was a bit angry. "Never forget what I taught you in class!" "You are always seen in the world now," said the student. It seemed that he had to do so. After hearing this, the teacher was pleased, "What you said is ture."
"l have sent out one "top hat" already. Now I have ninety-nine left." the student said to his friends later. He said he gave a "top hat" to his teacher when he talked with him.
