Who is Old Ding from Iron & Silk and what is their importance? Iron_&_Silk English & Literature Old Ding | Iron & Silk

Old Ding is a fisherman on the Xiang River. Mark strikes up a friendship with Old Ding, after which, Mark is invited to his home. Old Ding's family takes such a liking to Mark that they offer to purchase a boat for him if he will stay.