The verse goes:
Love too deeply, and never find rest even in old age. Moonlight and mist are mere expressions, especially when shared with a beloved. Sweet words of advice, gentle affection, melting one's heart. In the pavilion, as we drink, the water flows while the flowers wither.
Ximen Qing and Li Ping'er burned the paper, then slept in Pan Jinlian's room for a night. The next day, the Count's family sent a gift of celebratory noodles. Later, Huang Si brought his nephew Sun Wenxiang and a pig, a barrel of wine, two roasted geese, four roasted chickens, and two boxes of fruits to Ximen Qing. Ximen Qing politely declined several times, but Huang Si knelt and said, "Thanks to the master for saving our lives, our whole family is grateful. There is nothing much to offer, please accept this small gift!" After much refusal, Ximen Qing only accepted the pig and wine, saying, "You can give the rest to your father." Huang Si said, "Since that's the case, this small token of appreciation will do." He had no choice but to take the remaining items back. He then asked, "When will you be free, sir? I asked Ying Ershi and would like to invite you to visit." Ximen Qing replied, "Don't pay any attention to that! Please don't bother anymore, it's not necessary." Huang Si and his nephew left, expressing their heartfelt thanks.
On the first day of November, Ximen Qing returned from the yamen and went to Li Jiao'er's house to drink. Yu Niang was alone at home, dressed plainly, and took a sedan chair to Qiao Da's house to wish her sister a happy birthday. In the afternoon, Sister Xue from the nunnery heard that Yu Niang had agreed to let her come and recite scriptures for the deceased on the fifth day, so she secretly bought two boxes of gifts to see Yu Niang. Yu Niang was not at home, so Li Jiao'er and Meng Yulou invited her in for tea, saying, "Eldest sister went to Qiao's house to wish her a happy birthday. Wait for her to come back; she will talk to you." Sister Xue sat down. Pan Jinlian remembered that Yuxiao had said that Yu Niang only conceived after taking his protective talisman water, and also saw Ximen Qing asking for Yu Niang's milk, fearing that Yu Niang would take her child's love. So she invited Sister Xue to her own room and quietly gave her two taels of silver to help her prepare the protective talisman water.
In the evening, Yu Niang returned home, and Sister Xue stayed overnight. The next day, Yu Niang asked Ximen Qing for five taels of silver for the ritual expenses. Sister Xue kept it a secret from Wang the nun and the other masters, and early on the fifth day, she invited eight nuns to set up an altar in the garden's pavilion, reciting the Flower Adornment Sutra and the Diamond Sutra while chanting scriptures and performing rituals for the deceased. In the evening, they fasted and offered prayers for the souls of the deceased. That day, Wu Dajinzi, Huadasao, and official guests Wu Dajiu, Ying Bojue, and Wen Xiutai were invited to eat the vegetarian meal. The nuns did not use musical instruments, only wooden fish and bells while reciting scriptures.
The earl brought a message to the Huang family, inviting Ximen Qing to Zheng Ai Yue'er’s house for drinks on the seventh day of the month. Ximen Qing looked at the message and laughed, saying, “I’m busy on the seventh; I have to attend a birthday celebration at Zhang Xicun’s house. I’m free on the sixth.” He inquired who else would be attending, and the earl said, “It’s just us. I only invited myself, Li San, and four young ladies to perform 'The West Chamber'.” Ximen Qing told the Huang family to have vegetarian meals, sent them on their way, and changed the date to the sixth. The earl then asked, “What did Huang Si send you to thank you that day?” Ximen Qing recounted the incident: “I didn’t accept his gifts; he bowed to me repeatedly, and I only took the pig and the wine. I also gave him two bolts of white silk, two bolts of Beijing satin, and fifty taels of silver, which I considered a gesture of thanks to Long Ye Qian Gong.” The earl said, “Brother, not accepting money is sufficient; these are things he should do. Let’s say those four bolts of fabric are worth thirty taels of silver; where did the other twenty taels come from, then? That’s a benefit to him; it saved his and his son’s lives!” They stayed together until evening before parting ways. Ximen Qing told the earl, “Come back tomorrow.” The earl replied, “I understand.” He said his goodbyes and left. Eight nuns worked late into the night to complete the religious rites, burning scriptures and other offerings.
The next day, Ximen Qing went to the government office early in the morning. Wang Guzi came right over after hearing the news, saying that Xue Guzi took the money for the ritual and left. Yu Niang blamed her, saying, "Why didn't you come yesterday?" She replied, "You went to wish Wang Hongqin's family a happy birthday." Wang Guzi said, "This is the sneaky scheme of the old woman from the Xue family. She told me that our family moved the date to the sixth day to chant scriptures. Did she take all the ritual money and leave nothing behind?" Yu Niang said, "What are you waiting for? The ritual hasn’t even been performed yet, and she’s already taken all the money. I also left you a piece of cloth." Have Xiaoyu quickly bring her some leftover vegetarian food from yesterday and a piece of blue cloth. Wang Guzi muttered, "This old woman made a fortune from chanting rituals for Liu Niang. Originally, we were supposed to do it together, but she did it alone." Yu Niang said, "Old Xue said you took five taels of silver for the ritual to help Liu Niang's soul find peace. Why didn't you chant for her?" Wang Guzi said, "When she passed away on the seventh day after her death, I invited four masters to my house and chanted for half a month." Yu Niang said, "You chanted, why didn't you tell me? If you had told me, I would have given you some cloth." Wang Guzi sat in awkward silence for a moment before heading over to Xue Guzi's house to confront her. It is as follows:
Monks and nuns are one family in the Buddha's presence; the Dharma wheel turns endlessly to save all beings. This is only good for procreation, yet it’s a waste to cut blossoms with a golden knife.
Ximen Qing returned from the government office, and after finishing his meal, Count Ying arrived. He was wearing a newly made satin hat, dressed in a sandalwood hue pleated robe, and had powdered boots. He greeted Ximen Qing and said, "I have some free time this afternoon; let's head over there. They've sent several people to invite us." Ximen Qing replied, "We invited Kui Xuan to join us today." He asked Wang Jing to invite Scholar Wen across the street. After a while, Wang returned and said, "Scholar Wen is not at home; he is busy at a friend's house." The Count said, "We can't wait for him. That's not our concern. Don't delay the important matter." Ximen Qing instructed the qin boy, "Prepare the yellow horse for Count Ying to ride." The Count said, "I won't ride. How about this: to skip the fanfare, I'll go on ahead, and you can take your sedan chair at your own pace." Ximen Qing said, "You're right, you go on ahead." The Count left first.
Ximen Qing asked Dai'an, Qintong, and four sedan chair bearers to prepare ten warm sedan chairs to accompany him. Just as he was about to step out, Ping'an rushed over in a hurry, holding two invitations in his hand and said, "The Minister of Works is here to visit. He sent a small official to deliver the invitations, and the sedan chair is on its way." Ximen Qing quickly instructed the kitchen to whip up some food and told Lai Xing to grab some fancy snacks for the guests. After a while, Dr. An arrived, and Ximen Qing stepped out in formal attire to greet him. Dr. An was wearing a stunning official robe embroidered with cloud patterns and herons, with a golden belt around his waist. After entering, they exchanged greetings and then sat down as host and guest, while the servants served tea. After drinking tea, the two chatted for a while. Ximen Qing said, "I’m sorry I couldn’t congratulate you sooner on your promotion. You gave me many gifts some time ago, but I was tied up with a funeral at home and couldn’t thank you in person; I’m really sorry." Dr. An said, "I didn’t get a chance to offer my condolences either; that was rude of me! After I arrived in the capital, I sent people to visit your home. I wonder if you received my gifts?" Ximen Qing said, "I did, and I also got the funeral offerings from the Zhai family." Dr. An said, "Brother Si Quan (referring to Ximen Qing), you’ll definitely be promoted and prosper this year." Ximen Qing modestly said, "I have my limitations and a low position, so I can’t expect too much." He continued, "With your big promotion, you’ll definitely achieve great things. Your efforts in managing the Yellow River are admired by all." Dr. An said, "Thank you for your praise, Brother Si Quan. I am just an ordinary scholar; thanks to Mr. Cai's recommendation, I am responsible for water conservancy projects and river improvements. Right now, the people are really suffering and the national treasury is empty. Previously, the royal ships transporting granite damaged many river gates and embankments, causing great suffering to the people along the way, with heavy losses in both public and private sectors. In addition, with bandits rampant, even with magical skills, it’s tough to handle!" Ximen Qing said, "With your outstanding abilities, you will surely complete the task quickly and be promoted soon." He then asked, "Is there a deadline for your appointment this time?" Dr. An said, "It's a three-year term. After the river works are completed, the emperor will send officials to worship the River God." Ximen Qing then had a feast laid out. Dr. An said, "To be honest, I still need to visit Huang Taiyu." Ximen Qing said, "In that case, please sit for a while and let the servants have some snacks too." Soon, delicious food and wine were served, featuring sixteen dishes and warm wine, and the servants brought out exquisite snacks and meat dishes. Dr. An only drank three cups of wine before taking his leave, saying, "I will come to visit another day." Ximen Qing tried to persuade him to stay, but couldn’t, so he saw him off at the door, watching him leave in the sedan chair. Back in the hall, Ximen Qing changed out of his official clothes and slipped into something more casual, wearing only a purple velvet lion-patterned long shirt. He asked, "Is Master Wen back yet?" Dai'an replied, "Master Wen has not returned yet. Zheng Chun and Huang Sishu's family have come to invite you; they have been waiting here for half a day."
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Ximen Qing immediately stepped out and got into a sedan chair, accompanied by attendants on either side, and went straight to Zheng Aiyue's house. Upon arriving at the gate, the bearers of the sedan chair stepped aside, with only the reception staff standing on either side, not daring to kneel in greeting. Zheng Chun and Laidinger entered to announce his arrival. Ximen Qing arrived just as Yinqiao and Li San were playing a game of backgammon, and they quickly cleared the board upon hearing his arrival. Zheng Aiyue and Aixiang, dressed in splendid attire, looked like celestial beings and came out to greet him. Once Ximen Qing disembarked from the sedan chair, he entered the living room. Ximen Qing instructed that no musical instruments should be played, only the drum music should cease. Li San and Huang Si offered their respects first, then the matron of the Zheng family came out to pay her respects. Next, the two sisters Aiyue and Aixiang performed a kowtow to pay their respects. In the center stood two armchairs, with Ximen Qing and Yinqiao sitting down, while Li Zhi, Huang Si, and the Zheng sisters sat beside them. Dai An inquired, "Is the sedan chair still outside? Should I send it back?" Ximen Qing instructed the bearers to return with the sedan chair, and then directed Qintong, "Once you get home, check if Master Wen has returned, and if he has, use the yellow horse to bring him over." Qintong nodded in agreement and left. The earl asked, "Why did it take you half a day to arrive?" Ximen Qing then recounted his visit with Dr. An and the invitation to dinner.
After a while, Zheng Chun brought tea, and Ai Xiang handed a cup to the Earl. Ai Yue handed one to Ximen Qing, and the Earl quickly reached out to accept it, saying, "I took the wrong one; you should give it to him." Ai Yue replied, "Give it to you?—I’m not that fortunate!" The Earl said, "Look at this little vixen; she only cares about her own man and doesn’t care about guests at all." Ai Yue smiled and said, "Today is not your turn to be a guest!" After finishing their tea, four courtesans performing "The Romance of the Western Chamber" came out to bow respectfully to Ximen Qing, each reporting their names. Ximen Qing said to Huang Si, "When they come up to sing again later, only play the drums; no other instruments." Huang Si replied, "I understand." The brothel keeper was afraid that Ximen Qing would be cold, so she let Zheng Chun put down the warm curtain and added a lot of charcoal to the brazier. Several young girls in blue clothes heard that Ximen Qing was drinking at Zheng's house, gathered at the door to serve, peeking inside but too timid to enter. Upon recognizing Dai An, they greeted him, hoping he would speak on their behalf. Dai An quietly came in to plead for them but was reprimanded by Ximen Qing, which frightened them all away. After a while, a variety of exquisite fruits and dishes were served, with two tables arranged: Ximen Qing had one table to himself, and the Earl and Wen Xiucai had one table—Wen Xiucai's seat was on the left. The table next to them was for Li San and Huang Si, and on the right were the Zheng sisters. The dishes were beautifully presented, adorned with flowers in golden vases. Zheng Feng and Zheng Chun provided musical accompaniment from the side.
Just as the wine was poured and the seats were arranged, Wen Xiucai arrived. He was wearing a headscarf and a green cloud-patterned coat, and upon entering, he bowed in greeting. The count said, "Why did you come so late, old sir? The banquet has been ready for quite some time." Wen Xiucai replied, "I apologize; I wasn't aware you had called for me. I was just at a gathering with classmates, writing, so I arrived late." Huang Si quickly arranged the wine glasses and chopsticks and sat down with the count. Before long, the dishes were served, and two young performers performed a play. Four courtesans then sang a piece titled "Traveling in the Central Plains." At this moment, Dai An said, "Aunt Yin from the back courtyard sent Wu Hui and La Mei to bring tea." It turned out that Wu Yiner lived in the back courtyard of the Zheng family, just across an alley. Hearing that Ximen Qing was drinking here, she sent someone to deliver tea. Ximen Qing summoned them into the inner room, and Wu Hui and La Mei bowed and said, "Sister Yin asked us to bring tea for you." They opened the box and poured the tea, each with a cup of fragrant melon seed tea. Ximen Qing asked, "What is Sister Yin doing at home?" La Mei replied, "Sister is at home today and hasn't gone out." After drinking the tea, Ximen Qing rewarded each of them with three coins of silver and then told Dai An and Wu Hui, "You two hurry and invite Aunt Yin over." Zheng Aiyue, being clever, said to Zheng Chun, "You go with them and find a way to invite Aunt Yin. If she doesn't come, just say that I won't be working with her tomorrow." Count Ying laughed and said, "That's quite amusing; you two are actually courtesans!" Wen Xiucai said, "Brother Ying, you're being too insensitive. Since ancient times, like-minded people have always attracted each other, and things gather by their kind, people form groups by their kind. It's quite normal to partner with them." Aiyue said, "Brother Ying, you and Zheng Chun are all partners, working and singing together." The count said, "Silly child, I'm old! When I met your mother, you weren't even around!" While joking, the courtesans sang another piece titled "Half a Million Thieves." Ximen Qing called the girl from the Han family, who was singing, and asked, "Which girl from the Han family are you?" Ai Xiang'er replied, "Father, don't you recognize me? I am Han Jinchuan's niece, my nickname is Xiaochou'er, and I'm only thirteen this year." Ximen Qing said, "This girl will surely make a wonderful daughter-in-law one day. She is smart and clever in her manners, and her singing is lovely." He then invited her to the table to pour wine. Huang Si kept refilling soup and rice, being extremely attentive.
Not long after, Wu Yiner arrived. She wore a white gauze headdress, a pearl hairpin, emerald hairpins, and several small hairpins arranged around. She wore a white silk jacket and delicate eyebrow makeup, a green silk skirt with a gold rolled hem, and dark blue satin shoes. She smiled as she entered, first bowing to Ximen Qing, then greeting Wenxiu Cai and the others. The Count exclaimed, "It's truly amusing how quickly I get angry upon arrival! Are we being treated like stepchildren? You only recognize your father, kowtowing to him, but casually bowing to us. It turns out that the little lady from your Lichun Court is quite disrespectful to her guests! If I had the power, I would definitely not let you go!" Aiyuer remarked, "Ying Huazi, you are such a shameless child. You don't even look good, just too busy fussing over your appearance." As she arranged the seats, she had Yiner sit next to Ximen Qing. Noticing her white headdress, Ximen Qing asked, "Who are you in mourning for?" Wu Yiner replied, "Dad, you’re asking me on purpose; I’ve been in mourning for my mother all this time." Upon hearing she was in mourning for Li Ping'er, Ximen Qing felt a surge of happiness and sat down beside her, whispering to each other.
Soon the dishes will be served, and Aiyue will come down to pour wine for them. Wu Yiner left the table and said, "I haven't met Zheng Ma yet." Saying this, she walked to the parlor to pay her respects, and after coming out, the madam said, "Sister Aiyue, let Sister Yin sit down. It's cold, ask the maid to bring a brazier to warm Sister Yin's hands." Then more hot dishes were brought out, and Wu Yiner only ate a little snack and drank a couple of sips of soup. She put down her chopsticks and chatted with Ximen Qing, saying, "Did Mother chant the scriptures a few days ago?" Ximen Qing replied, "Thank you for sending tea on the fifth and seventh." Wu Yiner said, "That day we sent some coarse tea, but instead you returned the favor with a generous gift, which surprised Mother. Yesterday, when Mother chanted the scriptures, Sister Aiyue, Sister Gui, and I also went to send tea. I wonder if they chanted at home." Ximen Qing said, "On the day of the seventh, I just invited a few nuns to chant at home. I didn't invite any relatives, fearing it would be troublesome." While drinking and chatting, Wu Yiner asked again, "Are the ladies at home doing well?" Ximen Qing replied, "All is well." Wu Yiner said, "Father, you just lost Mother, and being alone at home must be very lonely, right?" Ximen Qing said, "I miss her, that's for sure. A few days ago in the study, I even dreamt of her in the daytime and cried my heart out." Wu Yiner said, "It's so sudden that she's gone; it's only natural to miss her!" The Count said, "You’re all sharing such heartfelt words, leaving us out. You don't even come over to toast or sing a song for us. We will take our leave!" Li San and Huang Si quickly persuaded the Count to let the two girls come over to toast. After setting up the instruments, Wu Yiner also sat down. The three girls sat together at the table, surrounding the brazier, and sang a piece from the Zhong Lv Gong, "Pink Butterfly - Three Times the Plum Blossom," their voices filled with sorrow and emotion, leaving a lasting impression.
After singing, Ximen Qing said to the Count, "You let the three girls sing, and you come down and have a drink with them." The Count said, "No problem, it won't kill anyone. They can do whatever they like: lying back, lying flat, lying on their side, standing on one leg like a rooster; I can do whatever I want; also, wild horses running, foxes weaving silk, monkeys offering fruit, dogs urinating, immortals pointing the way—brother, you can choose one." Aixiang said, "I can't stand you, you filthy perv, talking nonsense!" The Count took three wine glasses and said, "Girls, each of you drink two glasses. If you don't drink, I'll splash it all over you." Aixiang said, "I'm not drinking today." Aiyuer said, "Kneel and beg Aunt Yue, let me slap you twice, and I'll drink." The Count said, "Yinjie, what do you say?" Wu Yiner said, "Uncle, I'm not feeling great today; I’ll just have half a glass." Aiyuer said, "Filthy perv, if you don't kneel, I won't drink even in a hundred years." Huang Si said, "Uncle, if you don't kneel, it looks insincere. Forget it, just kneel, don't get hit." Aiyuer said, "Even if you kneel, I won't hit you much, just let me slap you twice." The Count said, "Mr. Wen, you see, this little imp is really trying to make my life hard!" There was no choice, the Count had no choice but to kneel. Aiyuer rolled up her sleeves and playfully said, "Filthy perv, will you dare to be rude to Aunt Yue in the future?—Promise me loudly! If you don't promise, I won't drink either." The Count had no choice but to promise, "I dare not be rude to Aunt Yue again." Aiyuer then slapped the Count twice and drank the wine. The Count stood up and said, "This heartless little imp, you’ve left me with just one sip to drink. You’ve finished all the wine!" Aiyuer said, "Kneel down, I’ll reward you with a glass." So she poured a full glass of wine and poured it into the Count's mouth with a smile. The Count said, "You little imp, you’ve soaked me with wine. To be honest, I’ve only worn this outfit for a day, and you’ve already dirtied it. I’ll have a word with your husband about this!" Everyone shared a laugh and went back to their seats.
As evening fell, candles were lit. Ximen Qing instructed someone to bring a dice bowl. He let Wen Xiucai play first, but the scholar said, "What’s this all about! Let’s have the old gentleman start." So Ximen Qing and Yin'er played a game of "抢红" (a dice game) with twelve dice, as four courtesans played instruments and sang nearby. After a round of drinks, Wu Yin'er turned to play "抢红" with Wen Xiucai and the count, while Ai Xiang'er came over to toast Ximen Qing and guess the dice. A little later, Ai Yue'er came over to play "抢红" with Ximen Qing, and Wu Yin'er toasted Li San and Huang Si. It turned out that Ai Yue'er had just returned to her room to freshen up, wearing a brocade jacket with firework patterns, a pale yellow silk skirt adorned with gold threads, flower-patterned knee pants, and bright red phoenix-toed shoes, making her delicate face look even more enchanting in the light. Truly:
Her fragrant beauty is even more captivating, like autumn waters and spirits graced by auspicious snow. The white jade exudes fragrance, and the flowers speak their meanings; it's truly hard to spend a night worth a thousand gold.
Seeing this, how could Ximen Qing not be moved? After a few drinks, feeling a bit tipsy, he recalled what Li Ping'er once said in a dream: not to indulge in drinking outside at night. So he stood up to wash his hands in the back. The matron quickly called for a maid to light the lamp and led him to the back. After he returned from the restroom, Ai Yue'er immediately followed to attend to him. Once he finished washing his hands, Ai Yue'er took his hand, and they walked back to the room together.
Moonlight streamed through the half-open window in the room, the candlelight was bright and warm, like spring, and the fragrance was overflowing. Ximen Qing had removed his outer garments, leaving only a white silk robe, as the two nestled together on the bed. Aiyue asked first, "Dad, are you not coming home today?" Ximen Qing said, "I will be going back. Firstly, Yiner is here, it's not appropriate; secondly, I am an official, and I have to be assessed this year, worried about causing trouble, so I’m just here to keep you company during the day." He also said, "Thanks for the snails you sent the other day. After you sent them, I felt uneasy for half a day. Only the late Liu Niang would have picked these before. She's gone, who else in the family would pick these?" Aiyue said, "Picking these isn’t hard, as long as you can get the forbidden fruit. I cracked those melon seeds one by one, I told those pesky rascals, and they ate quite a lot." Ximen Qing said, "Ask those annoying guys; they took a lot. There's not much left; I ate them." Aiyue said, "Those pesky rascals got a good deal, just right to butter them up." She continued, "Thank you for the plum-flavored treats; Mom was so happy when she saw them. If she gets too much phlegm, she’ll cough all night, and it’s a real bother. Usually, her mouth is dry; she feels more comfortable with one in her mouth. My sister and I only ate a few, and she keeps the jar in the room to eat in the morning and evening; who would dare touch it!" Ximen Qing said, "It's okay, I'll have the servant send you another jar tomorrow." Aiyue then asked, "Have you seen Guijie lately?" Ximen Qing said, "Since Xiaotang came back, who has seen her?" Aiyue asked, "Did she bring tea on the seventh day of Liu Niang's death?" Ximen Qing said, "Her family sent Li Ming to bring it." Aiyue said, "I have something to say, but keep it to yourself." Ximen Qing asked, "What is it?" Aiyue thought for a moment and said, "I better not say it. If I do, it’ll sound like I’m talking behind my sisters’ backs, and I don’t want that." Ximen Qing hugged her neck and said, "What are you talking about? Tell me; no one will know it was you who said it."
Two people were chatting enthusiastically when suddenly the Count burst in, shouting, "Hey, good friends! You left me here to whisper!" Ai Yue'er said, "Oh, you annoying git! You scared me when you suddenly barged in!" Xi Menqing scolded, "You crazy dog, get lost! Kui Xuan and Yin Jie are still waiting back there; they've all gone back there." The Count sat down on the bed and said, "Let me take a bite of your arm first, then I’ll be on my way. You two can keep messing around!" Before either of them could react, he grabbed Ai Yue'er's snowy white wrist and praised, "My girl, your hands are made for this!" Ai Yue'er retorted, "You bastard, I can't even be bothered to yell at you!" The Count bit her and then left. Ai Yue'er yelped in pain, cursing, "You bastard, barging in here out of nowhere!" Then she called out to Tao Hua, "Keep an eye on him as he goes out and shut the door."
Aiyue told Ximen Qing about Li Guizhi and Wang Sanguan's situation: "Sun Guazi, Zhu Mazai, Xiaozhang Xian, Jiayu Kuan, Nie Yuer, Kicking Head Bai Huizi, and Xiang San, these people are loitering around her house every day. Now she has ditched Qi Xiang'er and got together with Qin Jiayuzhi, and the two of them are spending money together. Once the money runs out, she sold her fur coat for thirty taels of silver and pawned her wife's gold bracelet with Li Guizhi for a month's rent." Ximen Qing cursed after hearing this: "This little slut, I told her not to fool around with this kid; she didn't listen and even went against me on purpose." Aiyue said, "Dad, don't be angry. I have a plan to make Wang Sanguan pay and help you let off some steam." Ximen Qing hugged her and said, "My good daughter, what method? Tell me quickly." Aiyue said, "Dad, this can't get out; don't even tell Yinghuazi, for fear of word getting out." Ximen Qing said, "Just tell me, I won't tell anyone!" Zheng Aiyue said, "Wang Sanguan's mother, Mrs. Lin, is under forty, and she's stunning! She dresses like a vixen. Her son is always in the yard, and she looks for men everywhere at home. She pretends to go to Aunt An's nunnery for vegetarian meals, but she actually goes to Mrs. Wen's place, where Mrs. Wen helps her set up dates and introduces her to romantic affairs. I said, Dad, finding her tomorrow will be easy. There is also a clever plan: Wang Sanguan's wife is just nineteen, and she's the niece of the Six Yellow Marshal of Dongjing; she's a real beauty and knows how to play chess and play double land. When Sanguan is often away, she feels like a widow, completely miserable. If you handle her mother first, his wife will be yours for the taking."
Ximen Qing was so captivated by her words that he embraced Aiyue and said, "My darling, how did you know so clearly?" Aiyue didn't mention that she often sang at her house; she just said, "I have a friend who saw her mother somewhere, and it was through Wensao that I found out." Ximen Qing asked, "Who is it? Could it be Zhang Erguan, the nephew of Zhang Dahuzi from the neighborhood?" Aiyue said, "That Zhang Maode kid, with a face full of pockmarks and squinty eyes—he's so ugly! Only the slaves of the Jiang family would like him." Ximen Qing said, "I can't figure out who that could be." Aiyue said, "Let me tell you, Dad: it's a guy from the South I get along with pretty well. He has been doing business here two or three times a year, never staying at a hotel, just hanging out outside." After hearing this, Ximen Qing felt that this idea suited him, and happily said, "My daughter, since you are so considerate of me, I'll give your mom thirty taels of silver for household expenses every month, and you don't have to see clients anymore; just taking care of you is enough. I will come to see you when I have time." Aiyue said, "Dad, if you really care about me, thirty taels or twenty taels doesn't matter; just give Mom a few taels of silver, and I don't need to see clients anymore, just serving you is enough." Ximen Qing said, "What are you talking about! I will definitely give you thirty taels of silver every month!" After that, the two of them went to bed and had intercourse. The bedding was thick, piled up a foot high. Aiyue asked, "Should I take my clothes off, Dad?" Ximen Qing said, "Let's keep our clothes on for now; we don't want to make anyone wait." With that, he pulled over a pillow, Aiyue untied her lower garment, and lay back on the pillow... only to see her delicate curves swaying. It was just as: "The flowers are tender and can't resist the spring breeze that just won't quit. The heart of the flower is not enough; the affection is endless. Calling softly to the lover, the joy of this spring night feels like it could go on forever." The two of them enjoyed themselves for a long time... as the clouds cleared and the rain faded, they both straightened their clothes, washed their hands and walked hand in hand to the table.
Wu Yin'er and Ai Xiang'er are playing dice with Kui Xuan and the Count, the clinking of glasses fills the air, and the atmosphere is lively. When everyone sees Ximen Qing coming in, they all stand up to offer him a seat. The Count says, "You’re being quite rude, leaving us here and only coming out now. Come, have a drink to settle your nerves." Ximen Qing replies, "Let’s have a quick chat; what’s going on?" The Count says, "Alright, you were just whispering." The Count pours some hot wine and everyone drinks with Ximen Qing. The four courtesans play their instruments and sing. Dai An chimes in, "The sedan chair has arrived." Ximen Qing nods at him, and Dai An quickly orders someone to light lanterns and wait outside. Ximen Qing also remains standing, drinking with everyone. He instructs the four courtesans, "Sing 'Shy at First Sight' again for me." Han Xiaochou picks up the pipa and sings softly:
Shy at first sight, rain and clouds, two intentions intertwined. I see her with a thousand charms, countless enchantments, and a hint of tenderness. We exchange words through letters, sending hidden messages with our glances. Kept in my heart. In my heart, when will it come to fruition?
After finishing a song, Wu Yin'er pours wine for Ximen Qing, Zheng Xiang'er pours wine for the Count, Ai Yuer pours wine for Wen Xiucai, and Li Zhi and Huang Si each pour wine for themselves. The four courtesans perform another song. After finishing the wine, everyone raises their glasses for several rounds of toasts, and the courtesans perform two more songs.
After they finished singing, everyone finished drinking, and Ximen Qing stood up. He asked Daian to take out eleven packets of reward money from his bag to distribute: each of the four prostitutes received three taels of silver, the kitchen helper received five taels, Wu Hui, Zheng Chun, and Zheng Feng each received three taels, those who helped make tea received two taels each, and the little maid Tao Hua also received three taels. Everyone bowed in thanks. Huang Si repeatedly urged, saying, "Uncle Ying, you should take your time; it's still early! Please sit for a while longer, let us show our hospitality, why leave so soon? Yue, you should also persuade him." Ai Yue said, "I persuade him, but he doesn't listen." Ximen Qing said, "You don't know, I have plans tomorrow." Then he bowed to Huang Si and said, "Sorry to intrude!" Huang Si said, "No, no! I shouldn't let you go hungry; you shouldn’t sit for too long, it's my fault." The three opera singers also bowed and said, "Father, when you get home, please send our regards to the mistress and all the ladies. We are free now, and we will go to the mansion to see the mistress with Yin Jie." Ximen Qing said, "You’re welcome to come by anytime." After speaking, he took the lantern down the steps, and the madam of the Zheng family came forward to bow, saying, "Father, why are you in such a hurry to leave? Do you dislike our food? There's still a bowl of rice that hasn't been served!" Ximen Qing replied, "That’s enough, really; I have to get up early tomorrow, I still have work at the yamen. If Brother Ying has nothing to do, let him sit for a while longer." The Count also prepared to leave, but Huang Si stopped him, saying, "Second Master, it's no fun if you leave." The Count said, "No, don't stop me. If you keep Mr. Wen here, I’ll give you my respect." Mr. Wen wanted to run, but was held by the Huang family's servant. Ximen Qing walked to the gate and asked the boy, "Is Mr. Wen's donkey ready?" The boy said, "The donkey is ready; Hua Tong is watching it." Ximen Qing said to Mr. Wen, "Since the donkey is ready, you should stay with Brother Ying for a bit longer; I'll leave first." Everyone sent him out. Zheng Yue quietly took Ximen Qing's hand and gave it a little pinch, saying, "You know what I mean; don’t tell anyone." Ximen Qing said, "I know." Ai Yue also called Zheng Chun, "You escort the old man home." Ximen Qing left in a sedan chair. Wu Yiner said her goodbyes to everyone and the Zheng sisters at the door, and Wu Hui went home with a lantern. Zheng Yue said to Wu Yiner, "When you see that thug, don’t bring this up." Wu Yiner said, "I know." Everyone returned to the table, added charcoal, continued drinking, singing, dancing, and playing until the early hours of the morning before dispersing. Huang Si hosted the banquet and also earned ten taels of silver, and the matter passed. That day, Ximen Qing left in a sedan chair, with two yamen holding lanterns, and left the courtyard, allowing Zheng Chun to go home.
The next day, Xia Ti sent someone to summon Ximen Qing to the yamen early to investigate the theft case. He was interrogated until noon and then returned home. After eating, Shen Yifu Shen Ding sent someone to bring a young man named Liu Bao, who worked as an assistant in the satin shop. Ximen Qing decided to keep him and took the note before heading home with Shen Ding. Dian was standing beside him when Ximen Qing asked, "What time did Mr. Wen arrive yesterday?" Dian said, "I slept in the shop for a while. I only heard Huatong opening the door. He probably arrived around three in the morning. This morning, Mr. Wen hadn’t had any drinks; however, Second Master had too much to drink and ended up vomiting everywhere. Madam Yue was worried it was getting too late, so she had Zheng Chun take him home." Ximen Qing burst out laughing and called Dian over, saying, "Where does that Lady Wen live, the one who was introduced to your brother-in-law before? Find her and have her come to the house across the street to see me. I have something to tell her." Dian said, "I’m not sure where Lady Wen lives, but I’ll go ask my brother-in-law." Ximen Qing urged, "Go ask quickly!"
Dai An arrived at the shop and asked Chen Jingji. Jing Ji asked, "What do you need her for?" Dai An said, "How would I know? Just send me to find her." Jing Ji said, "Head out of East Street and keep going south, pass Tongren Bridge Archway and turn east, enter Wangjia Lane, halfway there is a police station, there's an old stone bridge right across from it, after crossing the stone bridge, right next to an auntie's nunnery, beside it is a small alley. Go into the alley and head west; the third tofu shop on the uphill, with a red double fan door, is her home. Just call out for Aunt Wen, and she'll come out." Dai An said, "Can you give me more detailed directions? Following the incense burner is way too complicated! Say it again, I'm afraid I'll forget." Chen Jing Ji repeated it, and Dai An said, "It's so close! I'll ride a horse there." He led out a big white horse, got on, gave it a whip, and the horse took off. After leaving East Street and heading south, passing Tongren Bridge Archway, entering Wangjia Lane, and sure enough, there was a police station in the middle, and across from it was an old stone bridge, with part of the wall painted red, belonging to the nunnery. Going west up a small alley, there was a tofu shop sign, and at the door, an old lady was drying horse manure. Dai An called from the horse, "Old lady, is there a matchmaker named Aunt Wen here?" The old lady replied, "That's the house next door." Dai An arrived at the door of Ximen Qing's house and saw two red lacquered doors. He quickly dismounted, knocked on the door with his whip, and shouted, "Is Aunt Wen at home?" Her son, Weng Tang, opened the door and asked, "Who are you?" Dai An said, "I’m from the County Ya magistrate's office, sent by Master Ximen. Please ask Aunt Wen to come over quickly." When Weng Tang realized it was someone from the magistrate's office, he quickly let Dai An in. Dai An tied up the horse and entered the house. He noticed a statue of the God of Wealth inside, and several people were doing calculations there. After a bit, they brought tea and said, "My mom is not home; she said to come back tomorrow." Dai An said, "The donkey is still at home, how can you say she’s not home?" With that, he headed toward the backyard.
Unexpectedly, Sister Wen and her daughter-in-law were drinking tea with a few old madams. They didn't have time to hide and were seen by Dai An. Dai An said, "Isn't this Sister Wen? You just said you weren't at home!" Sister Wen laughed and greeted Dai An, saying, "Thank you for making the trip, Brother. I'm entertaining guests at home today. I don't know what the master wants from me; I'll go early tomorrow." Dai An said, "I was just ordered to find you; I don't know what the master wants. I didn't know you lived here, so I had to look for you for a long time." Sister Wen said, "In recent years, the master has been busy buying maids, matchmaking, and giving gifts. Lao Feng, Sister Xue, and Mama Wang are all busy. When would it ever be our turn! He suddenly found me today; I guess it’s because your Sixth Sister has passed away; he probably wants me to help you find a new match for her." Dai An said, "I don't know. If you go, my dad will tell you." Sister Wen said, "In that case, brother, please sit for a while. I'll send the guests away, and we'll go together." Dai An said, "My dad is waiting at home, anxious for me to hurry and bring you back. After talking to you, I still have to go to Prefect Luo's place for drinks." Sister Wen said, "Alright, wait for me to prepare some snacks for you to eat, then we'll go together." Dai An said, "No need." Sister Wen asked, "Has your mother given birth yet?" Dai An said, "Not yet." Sister Wen prepared some snacks for Dai An while getting dressed, saying, "You ride ahead; I'll walk slowly." Dai An said, "You have a donkey, why don't you ride it?" Sister Wen said, "Where would I get a donkey? It belongs to the tofu shop next door. They lent it to me to feed; just think of it as mine." Dai An said, "I remember you used to ride a donkey. Where did it go?" Sister Wen said, "Oh! That year, one of the maids hanged herself; we had to sell the old house in a lawsuit, where would we still have a donkey!" Dai An said, "It doesn't matter if the house is gone; it would have been nice to keep the donkey for company. By the way, you used to often carry a thick horse whip." Sister Wen laughed, "You little rascal, you’re going to give yourself a short life! I thought it was a compliment and listened attentively. It's been a few years, and you've learned to be so smooth-tongued. Tomorrow, you'll have to let me help you find a marriage!" Dai An said, "My horse runs fast; you walk, it will be dark by the time you arrive, won't your father scold you? You can ride a horse too; let's ride together." Sister Wen said, "You heartless little one, I'm not your shadow! It's embarrassing to be seen by so many people on the street." Dai An said, "Then just ride the donkey from the tofu shop and pay them when we get there." Sister Wen said, "That works too." As Wen Tang brought out the donkey and put on a blindfold, Sister Wen rode the donkey, and together with Dai An, they headed to Master Ximen's house.
That's exactly it:
To seek beauty in the inner chamber, one depends entirely on the red leaves as the perfect matchmaker.
