But for many other hutong, the future of their slow-paced, village-like way of life hangs precariously in the balance.

BBC: Old Beijing at its timeless best

"In the balance hangs the life of Milke, " Kozinski said, explaining the importance of his decision to overturn her convictions.

CNN: STORY HIGHLIGHTS

If ever a man is to receive credit for the good he has done, and his immediate misconduct assessed in the context of his overall life hitherto, it should be at the moment of his sentencing, when his very future hangs in the balance.

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