Remembering a dear friend

Another international friend was Michael Lindsey from the United Kingdom. It was through Jardin Bussiere that this professor of economics at Yenching University escaped from the Japanese invaders, eventually fleeing to Yan'an in what is now Shaanxi province and becoming the founding architect of the communication system of the CPC's stronghold areas.

Perhaps his most touching story is that of his love with Wu Sidan. Wu came from a prominent family and had experienced illness since she was a child.

After seeing her, Bussiere believed that she didn't have any major health issues and encouraged her to embrace life outdoors.

With Bussiere's encouragement, she not only became healthy but also was admitted to Fu Jen Catholic University, majoring in fine arts. Because Wu Mingyuan, her father, was general manager of the Sino-French Industrial Bank, where Bussiere was a board director, Wu Sidan became a frequent visitor to Jardin Bussiere. Through this young female friend, Bussiere gained a deeper understanding of the breadth and profundity of Chinese culture. Seeing Bussiere overwhelmed with work, Wu Sidan often went to his clinic to help him and even simply offered to serve as his assistant after graduating from university.

After more than 10 years, the affection between them gradually grew into love, and they were married. Bussiere and his young wife left China in 1954 and returned to France. One year later, Wu Sidan became pregnant and gave birth to a son. Three years later, Bussiere passed away.