Case 2 analysis :

Li Hongzhang, one of the top officials inthe Qing Dynasty, was invited to visit the United States. He was warmlywelcomed. One day, Li was hosting a banquet for the American officials in apopular restaurant. As the banquet started, according to the Chinese custom, Listood up and said, “I am very happy to have all of you here today. Though these dishesare coarse and not delicious and good enough to show my respect for you, I hopeyou will enjoy them…”

 The next day, the English version of hiswords was shown in the local newspaper. To his shock, the restaurant owner flewinto a rage. He thought it was an insult to his restaurant and insisted that Lishould show him the evidence of which dish was not well-made and which dish wasnot delicious. Otherwise, Li intentionally damaged the reputation of therestaurant, and he should apologize. All the fuss made Li rather embarrassed.