The conversation so far had consisted almost entirely of formal 
courtesies. This had eventually led them into a discussion of Confucian 
philosophy and traditional culture, clearly a subject of interest to both of 
them. Judge Fang had complimented the Doctor on his sublime calligraphy, and 
they talked about that art for a while. Then, obligatorily
returning the compliment, Dr. X told the Judge how superbly he was executing 
his duties as magistrate, particularly given the added difficulty of having to 
deal with barbarians.