The words say:
With arms dropped and shoulders hunched, emotions vary between warmth and cold. When the mood strikes, children may come, and even a stone woman can be taught to conceive.
Don't let your power slip away overnight; your own children may not be as good as others'. Who are your true parents? Don't acknowledge the rear of the Duzhuan cave.
It is said that Ximen Qing went to Tokyo, and Wu Yueniang was at home. With so many women in the house, she feared trouble, so she ordered everyone not to go out unless necessary; the front door was securely locked, and the back door was locked at night too. The sisters busied themselves with needlework in their respective rooms. If Jingtai needed to fetch clothes from upstairs, Yueniang would let Chunhong or Lai'an follow. She routinely checked the doors and windows meticulously; in short, she was quite strict. Because of this, Pan Jinlian had no opportunity to flirt with Jingtai. She could only chat with her nurse Ruyi, and they got along well every day.
One day, Yue Niang prepared many clothes, undershirts, and underwear for Ximen Qing, and asked Ruyi and Han Sao to wash them. Chunmei happened to be washing laundry as well, so she asked Qiujie to borrow a stick from Ruyi. Ruyi and Yingchun were pounding laundry together and refused to lend it, saying, "You borrowed a stick a few days ago and haven't returned it yet; now you want it again! Han Sao is here, I have to help the master pound pants and undershirts!" Qiujie got angry and ran to complain to Chunmei, "I asked nicely to borrow it, but she won't lend it. Yingchun said it's okay to borrow, but Ruyi stopped me." Chunmei said, "Oh, how stingy! She won't even lend something in broad daylight. She won't even lend a stick for me to pound the foot wraps after washing. Qiujie, go ask someone else in the backyard." Pan Jinlian was sitting on the kang in the room wrapping her feet, and when she heard this, she was feeling frustrated and couldn't find a place to vent, so she cursed, "That shameless woman won't lend it? Go ask for it yourself; if you can't get it, curse that shameless woman, what's the big deal!" Chunmei got angry and went to Li Kinger's side, saying, "Who is that outsider? Won't even lend a stick. There's another person in charge in this house now!" Ruyi said, "Oh, it's right there, just take it and use it, who's stopping you from taking it? She just got angry. Madam ordered that while Han Mama is here, the master's undershirts and silk pants must be washed. Qiujie came to borrow it; I said to wait until I finish pounding the laundry for the master before borrowing it, but she made all kinds of excuses and said no. Yingchun heard everything." Unexpectedly, Pan Jinlian followed and cursed, "You old woman, shut up! Your master is dead, and now you're in charge in this house? Your father's clothes don't even fall under your jurisdiction; who serves him? All of us wives are dead, and you're going to wash his clothes for him? You're trying to suppress us with this method, but I'm not afraid of you!" Ruyi said, "Why is Fifth Sister saying that? Madam didn't order it; we were just helping the master sort out his clothes." Jinlian said, "You shameless, worthless woman, how dare you talk back! Who brought tea and water to the master in the middle of the night, and who helped him get dressed? Who do those things behind his back, thinking I don't know? Even if you're pregnant, I'm not afraid of you!" Ruyi said, "It's a proper pregnancy that ended in death; ours doesn't count for anything!" Jinlian didn't care much at first, but after hearing this, she became angry, her face turned red, and she grabbed Ruyi's hair and pinched her belly. Fortunately, Han Sao stepped forward to break it up. Jinlian cursed, "Shameless and worthless woman, despicable woman! We're still at leisure here; what are you, a cheap person, doing in the room? Even if you are the daughter-in-law of Laiwang's reincarnation, I'm not afraid of you!" Ruyi cried while fixing her hair, saying, "We only arrived later; we don't know who Laiwang's daughter-in-law is; all we know is that we're wet nurses in the master's house."
Jinlian said, "If you’re a nurse, just do your job. Why are you acting all high and mighty? I'm used to being in charge, so I’m not worried about any tricks you might pull!"
Meng Yulou strolled over slowly and said, "Sixth Sister, I called you to play chess, why aren't you going to play? What are you making all this noise about?" He pulled Jinlian inside and sat down, asking, "What exactly is going on?" Jinlian had calmed down, and Chunmei brought tea. After she took a few sips, she said, "Look at this shameless girl, I’m so angry my hands are cold, I can’t even hold my tea! I was in the room working on shoes, and you had Xiaoluan call me. I said I’d lie down for a bit first. I hadn’t even fallen asleep when I saw that little pest pounding on her skirt. I asked her to help me with the foot binding too. After a while, it got noisy, and it turned out Qiujun was asking her for a pestle. She wouldn’t give it to her and even snatched the pestle away, saying, ‘I lost one a few days ago, and now you want another! I’m busy helping my dad pound clothes!’ I got furious and told Chunmei to scold that wretch: ‘When did you get so bold as to bully others? We’ll deal with you! What are you in this house? Did we carry you in on a sedan chair? You’re far worse than the wife of Laiwang!’ I followed her, and she was still stubborn. I scolded her until she was in tears! If Sister Han hadn’t held me back, I would have dug the flesh out of her mouth! Eldest Sister is to blame too; she spoiled that good-for-nothing Laiwang and ruined him! It made me enemies with her, and later she even splashed dirty water on me, saying I was the one who killed Laiwang. And now this wife is also spoiling him, letting him run wild. As a daughter-in-law, you should be doing your part; why are you dressing up so flamboyantly every day? We can't stand any nonsense! That shameless girl, I don’t even know where she went, still bothering her. When she came back, she bowed to her shadow, mumbling something like she was chewing on maggots. At night, when he wanted tea, that wretch hurried up to bring him tea and even covered him with a quilt; the two of them cuddled together! What a sly fox! The girl just needs to serve tea; why does she have to get close and fawn over him? When she was asked for a cloak, that shameless one hurried to take silk from the cupboard to make him a cloak? And it doesn’t end there: on the day of the seventh mourning, her dad came in to burn paper and saw the girl and the wife being affectionate on the bed. Without saying a word, he instead said, ‘These offerings of wine and meat, don’t put them away, you can eat them yourselves.’ Such indulgence! That wretch even said, ‘It doesn’t matter if Dad comes or not, we’re waiting.’ I rushed in three steps at a time and scared her silly; she couldn’t say a word. What good wife? Just a promiscuous wretch, taking in everything good or bad. Turns out she’s just a loose woman. That wretch’s man is said to be dead. A few days ago, her man was holding a child; wasn’t he at the door eavesdropping? Sneaking around, acting all shady. Look at her now, she’s like a reincarnation of Li Ping’er! Eldest Sister just pretends to be deaf and mute all day; when someone brings her up, she just says it’s her fault.
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Yulou smiled and said, "How do you know so much in detail?" Jinlian replied, "Shen Wansan from Nanjing and the withered willow tree in Beijing. People fear notoriety just like pigs fear getting fat. What is there that I don't know? Burying a corpse in the snow, the truth will eventually be revealed." Yulou said, "I thought she didn’t have a man; how did another one suddenly appear?" Jinlian stated, "There are no walls that don't let the wind through in this world; who doesn't tell lies? If she didn't hide and conceal, would your family accept her? Back then, she was so thin and timid! After two years of eating well, she started acting up and got involved with men. If you don’t take care of her now, she’ll just get cocky again tomorrow. If she gets pregnant again, whose child will it be?" Yulou laughed and said, "You really are something, Sixth Sister." After that, the two of them went to play chess. It is said: Who inherits the shadow of the Three Lights? All things have no roots and grow on their own.
Speaking of Ximen Qing, one noon, he returned to Qinghe County. He had Ben Si and Wang Jing take the luggage home first, and then he took He Qianhu to the yamen to settle in. After settling He Qianhu, he rode back home. When he arrived home, Wu Yueniang hurriedly fetched water for him to wash his face. After washing his face, Yueniang had the maids set up a table in the courtyard, light incense, and Ximen Qing made a vow to the heavens and earth. Yueniang asked him what vow he made, and Ximen Qing said, "Don't mention it, I almost couldn't come back! On the twenty-third day of the eleventh month, just after crossing the Yellow River and arriving at Bajiao Town in Yishui County, we were caught in a strong wind that blinded us with sand, and we couldn't walk at all. It was also dark, with no one around; everyone was scared, and with all those loads, we were worried about thieves. We finally found a broken temple, where the monks were poor too; there was no light at night, so we had to make do with some bean gruel for the night. We only resumed our journey when the wind stopped the next day; this time was even tougher than the last few days! Although it was hot in the past few days, the weather was still good, but this time it was cold and frightening. If we had encountered this wind and waves by the Yellow River, what would we have done? I made a vow on the way, to slaughter pigs and sheep for offerings to the heavens on the first day of the twelfth month."
Madam asked him why he went to the government office first. Ximen Qing explained, "Xia Longxi has been promoted and has no time to deal with this matter. The new He Qianhu is the nephew of the supervisor, He Taijian, named He Yongshou. He’s not yet twenty, just a naïve young lad. He Taijian has asked me several times to help take care of him. I need to get him settled first; otherwise, what can he do? He took twelve hundred taels of silver—all of which I helped him secure—and bought Xia Longxi's house. He will move in after the Xia family moves out. A few days ago, Xia Daren found out someone reported him, so he paid Lin Zhenren to pull some strings with Zhu Taipu, hoping to continue as magistrate for another three years. Zhu Taipu reported it up the chain, and it nearly got me into hot water! If it weren't for the Zhai family's help, I’d have been done for ages ago! The Zhai family also criticized me for being careless, and I have no idea who's badmouthing me behind my back." Madam said, "I told you, you’re so careless in your work, flapping your gums like a flashy upstart! You’re always trying to scheme against others; how can you think you can outsmart everyone? Others go about their business quietly and steadily, while you’re completely in the dark!" Ximen Qing said, "Before Xia Daren left, he kept asking me to look after his family, so you should get something to bring when you visit." Madam said, "His wife’s birthday is on the second day of the Lunar New Year; you should go. You need to work on that short temper of yours. As the saying goes, 'When you meet someone, share a bit but don’t spill your guts.' Even I, as a woman, have to be careful—especially around outsiders!"
As he was speaking, Dai An came to inform Ximen Qing that Ben Si was asking whether to go to the Xia family. Ximen Qing told him to finish his meal first. Li Jiaoer, Meng Yulou, Sun Xue'e, Pan Jinlian, and the eldest sister all came to greet him and engage in conversation. Ximen Qing remembered that on his last return from Tokyo, Li Ping'er was still alive, so he went to her room, knelt before her spirit to kowtow, and wept. Ruyi'er, Yingchun, and Xiuchun also knelt down to pay their respects. Yueniang asked Xiaoyu to set the table, and after finishing the meal, rewarded the groom with four taels of silver and wrote a note of thanks to Zhou Shuibe. She also asked Xing'er to prepare half a pig, half a sheep, forty pounds of flour, a bag of rice, a jar of wine, two smoked hams, two geese, ten chickens, along with oil, salt, soy sauce, vinegar, and other provisions to send off He Qianhu, and arranged for a chef to accompany them.
While arranging things in the hall, Qintong came in to announce the arrival of Mr. Wen and the Count. Ximen Qing hurriedly invited them in and exchanged a few pleasantries. The Count said that in the morning he heard the magpie calling non-stop, and the people at home said it might be Ximen Qing back home, so he came to see. He didn't believe it, but Ximen Qing really had returned. Seeing so much wine and rice in the hall, the Count asked who it was for. Ximen Qing said it was a little gift for the new Mr. He who had just arrived, whose family had not yet come, so he was currently staying at the yamen. Tomorrow, he would invite him to a welcoming dinner, with Mr. Wen, the Count, and Wu Yueniang's brother joining him. The Count said that Wu Yueniang's brother was an official, Mr. Wen wore a square scarf, and he wore a small hat—how could he possibly join them? Ximen Qing chuckled and offered to lend him his satin hat, saying it was his eldest son's. Everyone laughed. The Count said his head was too small to wear it. Mr. Wen chimed in that his head was also too small, so he could lend his hat to the Count. Ximen Qing said not to lend it to him, or he might get hooked on borrowing. Mr. Wen also laughed and said Ximen Qing had dragged him into it. After drinking tea, Mr. Wen asked if Xia Longxi had been promoted and wasn't coming anymore. Ximen Qing said he had been promoted to a high position, wearing python robes and carrying a rattan stick, looking very imposing, so why would he still come! After a while, the invitations were written, things were taken away, and Dai An sent them off. Ximen Qing led Mr. Wen and the Count to sit on the warm kang in the side room. He also had Qintong call Wuhui, Zhengchun, Shaofeng, and Zuoshun, the four young actors, to come and help out tomorrow.
Before long, the banquet was prepared, and Ximen Qing had someone bring a pair of chopsticks to invite Chen Jingji to join him for a drink. The four of them gathered around the fire, drinking and chatting about the frightening experiences on the road. The Count remarked that Ximen Qing had a kind heart and was very fortunate, and that heaven would protect good people. Wen Xiucai said that good people could protect the country for a hundred years. Ximen Qing asked Chen Jingji how things were at home, and Chen Jingji replied that there was nothing wrong at home, but the Ministry of Works had sent someone to check in twice, and they came again yesterday, saying that Ximen Qing had not yet returned home.
While they were talking, Ping An suddenly came to report: "The officials from the yamen and those petty leaders have come to report in." Ximen Qing hurriedly ran to the hall to stand and let them in. Two of them knelt down and said, "Excuse me, sir, when will you officially take office? How should the public funds of the yamen be used, and how much money will be spent?" Ximen Qing said, "You can manage it the same way as before." The officials said, "Last year, you were the only one in office, but now you're officially taking office, and with Lord He newly appointed, the two matters will be handled together, which is a change from before." Ximen Qing said, "In that case, give him an additional ten taels of silver." The two agreed and withdrew. Ximen Qing then called them back and instructed, "Regarding the date for taking office, you should ask Lord He which day is suitable." The two said, "Lord He has picked the twenty-sixth." Ximen Qing said, "In that case, make sure to take good care of him." Only then did the two leave. Then, Lord Qiao came by to congratulate him. Ximen Qing asked him to sit for a bit, and after drinking tea, he got up and left. Ximen Qing returned to drink with the two until it was time to light the lamps before dispersing. He returned to Yue Niang's room and slept soundly through the night.
The next day, a banquet was held at home to welcome He Qianhu and wash away the dust. Sister Wen had already heard that Ximen Qing was back, so she informed Wang Sanguan and sent over an invitation. Ximen Qing picked up some pig trotters, two fresh fish, two roast ducks, and a jar of fine wine to send over with Dai An as a belated birthday gift for his wife. He gave Dai An three taels of silver, and that was that. The main hall was beautifully set up for the banquet, with bright tables and chairs. Wu Dajie, Ying Bojue, and Wen Xiucai all arrived early, and Ximen Qing joined them for tea before sending someone to invite He Qianhu. Before long, Xiao Youer came in to pay his respects. Bojue asked, "Hey, why didn’t you invite Li Ming today, bro?" Ximen Qing replied, "He hasn’t been to my place, so how could I invite him?"
Just as he was speaking, Ping'an hurriedly came with a note to report: "Lord Zhou from the General's residence has come to visit, and has already dismounted." Uncle Wu, Scholar Wen, and Baron Yinhao all hid in the west wing room. Ximen Qing put on his hat, dressed neatly, and came out to greet in the hall. After exchanging pleasantries, he began talking about congratulating on the promotion. Ximen Qing also thanked Lord Zhou for bringing his attendants. Then they sat down as host and guest. Lord Zhou asked about the matters discussed in court, and Ximen Qing recounted them all. Lord Zhou said, "Longxi hasn't come, so he must have sent someone to escort his family to the capital." Ximen Qing said, "Even if he does, it will have to wait until the end of the month. At the moment, Mr. He is temporarily staying at the yamen. Xia Gong's house has been arranged for him, also by me." The lord said, "That's even better." Seeing the banquet set up in the hall, he asked, "Who are the guests invited today?" Ximen Qing said, "I just set up a simple table to welcome Mr. He. It's best not to be too extravagant among colleagues." They had tea together, and Lord Zhou got up and said, "I will bring the guards to formally congratulate both of you another day." Ximen Qing said, "I dare not trouble you; thank you for coming to congratulate first." He made a bow and left on horseback. Ximen Qing returned, changed his clothes, and joined the three of them for dinner in the study. Mr. He only arrived in the afternoon, and Uncle Wu and the others exchanged greetings, chatting for a few moments. After finishing tea, they took off their coats. Mr. He saw that Ximen Qing's family was wealthy, the banquet was lavish, and four young musicians were playing various instruments, taking turns toasting. They drank until the evening drum sounded, and Mr. He stood up and headed back to the yamen. Uncle Wu, Baron Yinhao, and Scholar Wen also said their goodbyes before leaving.
Ximen Qing sent Xiaoyou out, ordered her to pack up, and went to Jinlian's room. Jinlian was in the room with heavy makeup, having reapplied her makeup, bathed with fragrant oils, waiting for Ximen Qing to arrive, her face beaming with a smile. She helped him out of his clothes and loosened his belt, quickly asked Chunmei to make tea for him to drink, and then helped him to rest on the bed. It was indeed a warm and soft jade in his arms, lying on her soft chest; the two shared a passionate night, Jinlian was enchanting...whispering sweet nothings...Jinlian just wanted to capture Ximen Qing's heart, not to mention they hadn't seen each other for half a month; she had been thinking about it, her desire burned like fire, and once she had him, she felt an overwhelming desire to be as close to him as possible. The two spent the whole night together, never wanting to part. When Ximen Qing wanted to get up and urinate, Jinlian didn't let him go, saying, "My dear, urinate in my mouth, and I'll swallow it, so it won't be cold; it's better to be warm, don't catch a cold." Ximen Qing was thrilled to hear this, saying, "Who is as caring as you!" So he really urinated in Jinlian's mouth. Jinlian caught it in her mouth, slowly swallowing it. Ximen Qing asked, "How does it taste?" Jinlian said, "A little salty. Give me some fragrant tea to wash it down." Ximen Qing said, "The fragrant tea is in my white silk jacket; you can help yourself." Jinlian pulled his sleeve, took out a few tea cakes from inside, and popped them into her mouth before stopping. Indeed, "The servant cannot compare to Xiangru's thirst; he specially gives a cup of golden dew." Readers, let me explain: In order to please her husband, a concubine will go to any lengths, even if it means enduring humiliation in silence; she feels no shame. But a legitimate wife, how could she ever stoop to such things? That night, Ximen Qing and Jinlian remained entwined until dawn.
The next morning, Ximen Qing went to the yamen with He Qianhu to assume his duties and attend the public banquet, while the bands from both yamen played lively music. He returned home in the afternoon, when the yamen sent over the banquet. Wang Sanguan also sent someone to invite him. Just as Ximen Qing had finished preparing, a servant came to report: "Minister An from the Ministry of Works is here to visit." Ximen Qing hurriedly straightened his clothes and went out to welcome him. Minister An was the Chief of the Temple, wearing a gold-trimmed jade belt and a white official robe with deer patches. He was followed by many officials, all with smiling faces, who greeted one another in the hall, exchanged congratulations, and took their seats as host and guest. Minister An said, "I’ve come to visit you uninvited because I’d like to ask for your help with something: Cai Shaotang, the ninth son of Mr. Cai Laoxian from Jiujiang, is coming to the capital to pay his respects. He sent a letter a few days ago saying he will arrive soon. Myself, Song Songquan, Qian Yunye, and Huang Taiyu want to host him and thought of using your residence to entertain him. I hope you don’t mind?" Ximen Qing replied, "How could I possibly refuse the old man's request? May I ask when this will be?" Minister An said, "It will be on the 27th. I’ll send the invitation over tomorrow; please help arrange it as a gesture of your kindness." After that, he drank another cup of tea, bid farewell, and left on horseback. Ximen Qing then went to Wang Zhaoxuan's mansion for a banquet. Upon arriving at the door, he first presented his invitation card. Wang Sanguan quickly came out to greet him and led him into the main hall. In the center of the hall hung a plaque bestowed by the emperor, bearing the golden inscription "Shizhong Hall." On the side doors were couplets that read, "The ancient trees endure wind and frost, the mountains and rivers are renewed." After exchanging pleasantries, Wang Sanguan invited Ximen Qing to take the seat of honor, while he sat beside him. Tea was served quickly, and after finishing the tea, the banquet began. Wang Sanguan also called for two young actresses to sing and entertain.
Ximen Qing said, "I would like to meet Mrs. Wang." Wang Sanguan quickly instructed a servant to fetch her. After a while, the servant returned and reported, "Please come to the back hall to meet Mrs. Wang." Wang Sanguan invited Ximen Qing into the back hall. Ximen Qing said, "Xianqi, my son, please lead the way." So Ximen Qing entered the inner hall. Lin Shi was dressed in luxurious attire, wearing a red robe cinched at the waist with a gold and jade belt, and a black brocade flower skirt, looking like a goddess. Ximen Qing bowed and said, "Please, Madam, take a seat." Lin Shi replied, "Sir, you are a guest, please take a seat." After some polite exchanges, they both paid respects to each other. Lin Shi said, "My son is ignorant; he was disrespectful to you a few days ago. Thanks to your forgiveness and for punishing those wrongdoers, we are grateful. Today, we prepared a modest feast to thank you for coming, and I specially came to express our gratitude. I was surprised that you also brought such a generous gift; we truly feel honored."
Ximen Qing said, "Oh no, I was delayed in Tokyo on business and missed the opportunity to wish the old lady a happy birthday. This small gift is a token of respect." Ximen Qing saw Old Wen nearby and said, "Old Wen, bring over a wine glass, I want to have a drink with Madam." Then he called for Da'an to come over. It turned out that Ximen Qing had prepared a set of clothes with a "gold scattered all over" pattern in his felt bag, which he took out and gave to Lin Shi. Lin Shi was delighted to see the shiny gold. Wensao quickly brought over a golden cup and a jade bowl. Wang Sanguan wanted to call Xiaodan in to play and sing, but Lin Shi said, "Don't call them in, the music outside is fine." After finishing their drinks, Ximen Qing and Lin Shi toasted each other, and just as Ximen Qing was about to return the gesture, Lin Shi said, "Please don't, there's no need for formalities." Ximen Qing said, "I wouldn't dare." Lin Shi said, "You're such an important official, you're more than qualified to be my son's godfather! My son hasn't studied well since he was young, he hasn't learned from good people. If you are willing to accept him as your godson, teach him to be a decent man, I'll have him bow to you as his godfather today, and if there is anything wrong in the future, feel free to discipline him, I will not cover for him." Ximen Qing said, "Madam, you are too kind. Your son is talented and intelligent; he is just young, and he will naturally change for the better in the future. Madam, please don't worry too much." So Ximen Qing took his seat again, Wang Sanguan toasted three glasses of wine, and Ximen Qing performed the four bows ceremony. After the toasting was finished, Ximen Qing stood up again to thank Lin Shi, who smiled and returned the gesture. From that day on, Wang Sanguan respectfully referred to Ximen Qing as his godfather.
It is said: Often taking advantage of the good and deceiving the kind-hearted, using power to oppress the weak.
There is also a poem to lament this:
Men and women have never been able to reciprocate,
Flirting and scheming are truly disgraceful.
Sanguan doesn't grasp the real meaning,
Even bowing to his own mother for nothing.
After a few rounds of drinks, Mrs. Lin instructed Wang Sanguan, "Please, sir, go rest up front for a bit and change your clothes." Dai'an brought a clean cloth for Ximen Qing to change into. Soon after, the banquet was set up, the young female performers began singing and playing again, the chefs began serving dishes one after another, and Dai'an served on the side. After having five dishes and listening to two performances, candles were lit, and Ximen Qing stood up to say goodbye. Wang Sanguan insisted on keeping him and invited Ximen Qing to his study. The study had three small rooms, adorned with flowers and plants, and filled with calligraphy and paintings. In the center hung a plaque with gold leaf, with the words "Sanquan Poetry Pavilion" written on it, and four ancient paintings on the walls. Ximen Qing asked, "Who is Sanquan?" Wang Sanguan hesitated to answer, and after a while finally said, "That's my son's style of calligraphy." Ximen Qing didn't say anything and started drinking again, while a few young female performers played music on the side, and Mrs. Lin arranged the dishes in the back.
After midnight, Ximen Qing was feeling a bit tipsy, so he got up, gave money to Xiaoyou'er and the chef as a reward, and went home. Once home, he headed straight to Pan Jinlian's room. Pan Jinlian was still awake, having just taken off her headpiece, styled her hair in a high bun, put on light makeup, and was brewing tea in the room, with the scent of incense wafting from the burner, waiting for him. When she saw Ximen Qing come in, she was thrilled and quickly took his clothes, asking Chunmei to make a cup of tea for him. After Ximen Qing finished his cup of tea, Chunmei helped him out of his shoes and clothes and served him to bed. Pan Jinlian took off her jewelry under the lamp, changed into her sleeping shoes, and lay down on the bed as well. The two cuddled up closely together. Ximen Qing had one arm around Pan Jinlian, feeling like he was holding warm, fragrant jade, with their chests and faces close together, kissing intimately. Before long, their emotions ran deep, and passion ignited. Pan Jinlian kept touching Ximen Qing there.
Ximen Qing asked, "My dear, do you miss me while I'm not at home?" Pan Jinlian said, "You've been gone for over half a month, and I haven't been able to relax at all! The nights feel so long, and I can't sleep alone. The bed is cold, my legs are frozen stiff; I can only curl up, waiting for you in vain, and I've lost count of the tears I've shed on my pillow. Later, Chunmei saw me sighing and played chess with me at night, staying up until almost dawn before sleeping. Chunmei and I shared the same bed. Brother, this is how I feel; I don't know what's in your heart." Ximen Qing said, "You have a way with words; although there are other people at home, who doesn't know how well I treat you?" Pan Jinlian said, "Stop it, you're just trying to fool me! You're keeping your options open; I don't know? You're so close to Laiwang's wife, leaving me aside. Later, when Li Ping'er had a child, she looked at me as if I were an enemy. Now you've run off to her place? I'm just being honest here. You're like a poplar flower in the wind, drifting everywhere; now you can't seem to get enough of that vixen, Ruyi. Regardless of what she is, at least she has a man, a proper family's daughter-in-law. You insist on her; tomorrow you'll have to coax her man to tend sheep at the door. What will people think of you as an official? Look at that woman; a few days ago when you weren't home, she and Chunmei had a big fight over a wooden mallet, not letting me get a word in."
Ximen Qing said, "That's right, my dear, she's just a servant. How could she dare to defy you? If you're powerful, she'll naturally be convinced." Pan Jinlian said, "That’s easy to say! Without Li Ping'er, she's become arrogant. She even learned from you to say to her, 'If you serve me well, I'll give you all the property from my family.' Is that really what you said?" Ximen Qing said, "Don't jump to conclusions, I didn't say that! You forgive her, and I'll make her apologize to you by kowtowing tomorrow." Pan Jinlian said, "I don't want her apology, and I won't allow you to go to her room to sleep." Ximen Qing said, "I sleep there for a different reason, but because I can't get over Sister Li's (Li Ping'er) love. I'm just keeping watch there; who has any private affair with her?" Pan Jinlian said, "I don't buy your story. It's been a hundred days since she died, what kind of vigil are you keeping? You're just going to the granary, ringing the bell in the first half of the night, and the maid hears the sound of the gong in the second half of the night." Ximen Qing, frustrated, pulled her close and kissed her, saying, "You little troublemaker, why are you causing so much trouble!" Then he turned over and pressed her down, and the two of them had a passionate encounter. Ximen Qing asked, "Are you afraid? Do you still dare to control me?" Pan Jinlian said, "You bad guy, I don't care about you, go to hell! I know you can't leave that woman; I'll decide after I find out tomorrow. If she asks you for something, she must tell me; you're not allowed to secretly give her anything. If you don't listen, I'll find out, and you'll see me make a scene! I'll divorce her; she’s not worth it. It's almost because of Li Ping'er's matter that I almost got killed. You scoundrel, what’s so special about you? I'm smart now." Ximen Qing laughed heartily. The two of them lingered until three in the morning before finally stopping. With rain in the umbrella and smoke in the air, her enchanting figure feels almost too delicate. All night long, they share their hearts, leaving the east wind reluctant to depart.
The two of them held each other and slept until dawn. Pan Jinlian was still not satisfied and kept touching Ximen Qing, which stirred him, and he exclaimed, "Dear husband, I want to stay on top of you forever." ... Pan Jinlian said, "My darling, during the day I'll make you a white belt, putting the kind of medicine that the monk gave you inside, and then tie it with two long straps. When we sleep, you can tie it at the base and then use these two long straps to tie it around your lower back. It's soft and strong, not like that hard thing that hurts, right?" Ximen Qing said, "My dear, you do it. The medicine is in the medicine box; you can pack it yourself." Pan Jinlian said, "Come over tonight, and let’s give it a try, okay?" So, the two of them became entangled once again.
At this moment, Dai An came in with a notice and asked Chunmei, "Has the master gotten up yet? Old An sent someone with money and also brought two jars of wine and four pots of flowering trees." Chunmei replied, "The master hasn't gotten up yet; let him wait." Dai An said, "He left in a hurry and still needs to report to the Xinkekou gate." Ximen Qing heard this from inside the room, called out to Dai An to ask for clarification, brought the notice inside, opened it, and saw that it read:
"Four envelopes sent, totaling eight taels. However, there are fewer tables and seats, so the rest is just for casual drinking. I hope those present will pay attention, which reflects great generosity. Additionally, there are four pots of seasonal flowers for your enjoyment; two jars of Zhejiang wine to help meet the needs of your guests. I hope you will accept this; thank you!"
After Ximen Qing finished reading, he got up, didn't even comb his hair, topped his head with a felt hat and donned a padded jacket, and walked to the hall to let Old An's people in. He accepted the money. Ximen Qing saw four pots of flowers and plants: a pot of red plum blossoms, a pot of white plum blossoms, a pot of jasmine, a pot of sweet olive, and two jars of wine, which filled him with joy. He hastily accepted them and sent back a reply, giving the messenger five silver coins, and then asked, "What time will the old men come tomorrow? Do we need to invite a theater troupe?" The messenger said, "They will come early. The theater troupe will be using sea salt." After speaking, he left. Ximen Qing asked someone to move the flowers and plants to the study for arrangement, instructed Dai'an to invite the theater troupe, and gave Lai'an money to go buy things. It was also Meng Yulou's birthday that day, and the courtyard was alive with young singers and musicians performing in the evening.
Ying Bojue took five invitation cards and had Ying Bao carry a box to have Wen Xiucai write the invitations. He wanted to invite Ximen Qing's five wives to come to the house on the 28th for the full moon celebration. Just as they turned the corner, they heard someone shouting from behind, "Second Master, you're back!" Bojue turned around and saw Li Ming, so he stopped. Li Ming walked up and asked, "Second Master, where are you going?" Bojue said, "I have a little matter to discuss with Master Wen." Li Ming said, "There's something at home I need to mention to you." At this moment, a man strolled by from behind, holding a box in his hand, so Bojue had no choice but to head back home. Li Ming quickly kowtowed, brought the box in, and opened it to reveal two roast ducks and two bottles of good wine, saying, "It's just a little something for you, Second Master. I have a favor to ask and hope you can help me, Second Master." He knelt down and wouldn’t get up. Bojue hurriedly pulled him up and said, "Silly boy, just tell me what you need, why bring gifts?"
Li Ming said, "I have been working at your home since I was young, serving for several years, and now your family no longer needs me. As for the matter concerning Sister Gui, I honestly don't know anything about it. Now the master is blaming them and also taking it out on me. I feel really wronged; I have no place to seek justice, so I can only come to ask you, Second Father. Please go to my home and speak a few good words for me to the master. Even if Sister Gui is truly at fault, it has nothing to do with me. If the master is angry and blames me, that's one thing, but now my coworkers are bullying me too." The Count said, "No wonder you weren't at the banquet for Old Father He yesterday. I invited Wu Hui, Zheng Chun, Shao Feng, and Zuo Shun to help. I asked your father, and he said, 'He didn't come; I didn't invite him!' Silly child, why don't you hurry and find a job? Who are you holding a grudge against?" Li Ming said, "If the master's family doesn't call for me, how can I go? A few days ago, those four were there helping, and today it's Third Miss's birthday, and An Guaner took two of them away this morning; tomorrow Old Father is hosting a banquet, and it will be those four again. I was left out; how can I not worry? I just hope you can help me clear this up, Second Father, and I will bow to you again." The Count said, "I will definitely help you speak. I have helped many people with good words before; this small matter, I will surely assist you! You listen to me, take this gift back. Where did you get the money? I can't accept your money! Come with me now, and I'll explain everything to you in a bit." Li Ming said, "If Second Father doesn't accept the gift, I also dare not leave. Although Second Father doesn't care for it, this is just a small token of my gratitude." After repeated refusals, the Count finally accepted the gift. He gave thirty wen and sent the person who brought the box back. Then they left together and arrived at the house opposite Ximen Qing.
Upon arriving at the entrance of the academy, he knocked on the door and called out, "Is Mr. Kui Xuan home?" Mr. Wen was writing at his desk and quickly replied, "Please come in." The servant opened the door, and the count sat down in the main room. Mr. Wen came out to greet him, politely inviting the count to sit and asking, "Why are you up so early, sir? Where are you going?" The count said, "Could I trouble you to write a few invitations? You see, on the twenty-eighth, it’s my son's full moon celebration, and I would like to invite the ladies from your household to come over." Mr. Wen said, "Where are the invitations? I will write them right away." The count had Ying Bao take out five invitations and handed them over. Mr. Wen took them to the inner room and had just written two when a servant rushed in and said, "Master Wen, write two more invitations—one for Auntie Qiao and one for Auntie Da. Just now, the boy who plays the qin went to get the invitations for Auntie Han and Auntie Meng; have they been sent out?" Mr. Wen replied, "Your brother-in-law has been keeping an eye on them; they were sent out quite a while ago." The chess boy said, "Master Wen, after you finish these two, you still have to write four more for Auntie Huang, Auntie Fu, Auntie Han, and Mrs. Gan. I'll go find Lai An to bring them back." Shortly after, the invitations were sent out. Lai An came to collect these four invitations, and the count asked, "Is your father home? Did he go to the local government office?" Lai An said, "Father didn’t go to the yamen today; he is receiving gifts in the hall." Mr. Wen said, "The old gentleman was late to the Wang family's banquet yesterday." The count inquired about the Wang family, and Mr. Wen said, "It’s the Zhao Xuan Mansion." The count understood. After a while, Lai An took the invitations and left, and Mr. Wen finally finished writing. The count arrived with Li Ming.
Ximen Qing, with his hair disheveled, was receiving gifts and responding to invitations in the hall, with a table beside him. When the Count arrived, Ximen Qing hurried to greet him and offer him a seat. The Count thanked him for his hospitality the day before, then asked, "Brother, what's this table for?" Ximen Qing told the Count that he was hosting a banquet for An Langzhong at the request of Prefect Cai. The Count asked, "Are there going to be actors or young performers tomorrow?" Ximen Qing replied, "I've invited a group of actors from Haiyan, and I've also got four young performers lined up." The Count asked, "Why not call Li Ming?" Ximen Qing replied, "He's moved up in the world; why would he bother coming here?" The Count said, "Brother, why do you say that? If you call him, he will come. I don't know why you've been holding a grudge against him. But those matters have nothing to do with him. How would he know about San Shen's affairs? Don't wrongly accuse him. He came to me this morning, crying and telling me: 'Don't mention my sister at the master's house, just say that I served for a few years, and now that there is someone else, I am no longer needed.' He swore repeatedly that he had no idea about San Shen's affairs. If you're upset, don't take it out on him. What kind of bad intentions could a nobody like him possibly have? If you get a little upset, how could he handle it?" Then he said to Li Ming, "Come over and tell your dad yourself. Why are you hiding? You know what they say: an ugly daughter-in-law has to meet her in-laws."
Li Ming stood by the door, bowing his head, looking like a ghost hiding in the back room, watching the two people talk. When the count called him, he quickly went in and knelt down, constantly kowtowing, saying, "Master, I truly had no idea about what happened last time. Even if I were crushed by a car, trampled by a horse, or beaten to death by the authorities, I would accept it! I can never repay the kindness you have shown me before. This time, I didn't mean to make you angry; my companion made fun of me. He bullied me; who else could I turn to for help?" After he spoke, he broke down in tears, kneeling on the ground unable to get up. The count said on the side, "Alright, I have seen enough of this. A gentleman does not dwell on the mistakes of others. Even if he is truly at fault, since he is like this, forgive him." He then said to Li Ming, "Come here; the saying goes, 'wearing green and hugging a black pillar.' Your father said so, so I won't hold it against you. Be more careful in the future." Li Ming said, "Second uncle is right; I will correct my mistakes and be more careful in the future." After pondering for a while, Ximen Qing said, "Since your second uncle has pleaded for you so many times, I won't blame you. Get up." The count said, "Quickly kowtow!" Li Ming quickly kowtowed and stood aside. The count then had Yingbao take out five invitations to Ximen Qing and said, "The 28th is the baby's full moon; please come and celebrate." After reading it, Ximen Qing instructed Lai'an, "Take the invitations and the box to Madam for her to review. I doubt we'll be able to go the day after tomorrow. Let me tell you the truth, tomorrow is your third mother's birthday, and there is a banquet at home. On the 28th, he has to go see Mr. Xia's wife. How can he go?" The count said, "Brother, are you trying to kill me! If my sister-in-law doesn't go, who else can we count on for the fruit from the garden! I will personally go and invite her." After a while, Lai'an came back with an empty box, "Madam said she knows, no need to reply." The count handed the box to Yingbao and said with a smile, "Brother, you are fooling me again. If my sister-in-law doesn't go, I'll bang my head against the ground until it breaks, but I still need to invite her to make a trip." Ximen Qing said to the count, "Don't go yet; wait for me to freshen up, and then we can eat." After speaking, he went inside.
The earl said to Li Ming, "What’s up? If I hadn’t talked him down just now, he would’ve been even angrier. He has money and power; a few words from him carry weight. As the saying goes: 'A fist does not strike a smiling face.' In this day and age, one must know how to flatter. To do business, you need capital, but even more, you need three parts charm. If you hold on stubbornly, who will pay attention to you? You must be adaptable, as flexible as water, in order to make money. If you hit a wall and others are well-fed while you are still hungry, what good is that? You promised him for years, yet you still don’t get his temperament? Tomorrow, have Sister Gui come over early, and we can handle two things at once: celebrate San Niang's birthday and apologize to him, and everything will be settled in one day." Li Ming said, "Second Dad is right; I will talk to San Niang after I get home." As he spoke, Lai An set the table and said, "Please take a seat, Second Dad; the boss will be out shortly."
After a while, Xi Menqing finished grooming and sat down with the earl, asking him, "Haven't you seen Old Sun and Zhu Mazi recently?" The earl replied, "I told them to come, but they knew you were upset. I said, 'It's still brother who remembers the old feelings; that day, when the bugs and grasshoppers rushed over, what were they gonna do!' They swore they wouldn't associate with the Wang family's servant anymore. They heard you were drinking at his place yesterday? They didn’t know." Xi Menqing said, "Yesterday they hosted a banquet for me, recognized me as their godfather, and we only dispersed after drinking until the second watch. How could they stop associating? As long as it doesn't mess with my business, they can do whatever they want; why should I care? I'm not their real father, so I can't control them!" The earl said, "You’re being too rigid. They will come to apologize to you within a day or two." Xi Menqing replied, "Let them come; what do they need to apologize for?" At that moment, Lai An brought out a feast of land and sea delicacies. Xi Menqing had porridge while the earl had rice. After finishing the meal, Xi Menqing asked, "Have those two little courtesans arrived?" Lai An said, "They’ve been here for a whole day." Xi Menqing called them to eat with Li Ming. Han Zuo and Shao Qian came up to bow and then went to eat together.
After a long time, the Count stood up and said, "I'm leaving; my family must be waiting for me. The hardest work at home is done by the common folk; from the kitchen to the living room, everything costs money." Ximen Qing said, "Go ahead and get busy. Come over in the evening to pay your respects to Lady San for her birthday." The Count replied, "I'll definitely come and bring some gifts." After saying that, he left. Indeed, wine deepens friendships and leads to endless conversations with close friends. Let’s not forget to respect each other; see you tomorrow at the cottage.
