話說史南湘進內與仲清、王恂見了、喝了幾杯茶、王恂問其所從來、南湘將日間的事，一一說了，又將春航、蕙芳的光景說了一會。王恂、仲清羨慕不已。仲清道：「不料蘇媚香競能這樣，從此田湘帆倒可以收心改過了。」也將前日題畫規勸之事說了，又說春航且有徽慍。南湘道：「改日我與你們和事如何？」義問起子玉來，仲清道：「庚香日間在此，他的李先生於月初選了安徽知縣，就要動身了。」南湘說了幾句，也就回去不題。
卻說子玉在王恂處談了半天回家。李先生已經解館，要張羅盤纏，魏聘才替他拉了一纖。托張仲雨問西容借了一票銀子，占了些空頭，有二百餘金，添補些衣服，也叫了幾天相公。李元茂要在京寄籍，性全也只得由他。
當晚子玉與聘才在書房閒話。那日是忌辰，日間聘才獨自一人到櫻桃巷去，找著了葉茂林，兩人談了半天。聘才拉他在扁食樓上吃了飯，即同到那些小旦寓處，打了幾家茶圍。末了到琴言處，琴言倒出來與聘才談了幾句，即問起子玉來。聘才就將子玉的心事，再裝點了些，說得琴言著實感激，並與琴言約定了，明日同子玉前來相會。回來與子玉說知，子玉便添了一件心事，一夜未曾睡著。是夕士燮在尚書房值宿未回。到了次日，子玉正要打算和聘才去看琴言。忽見門上梅進滿面笑容的進來，說道：「恭喜少爺，老爺放了江西學差，報喜的現在門口。」子玉聽了也覺喜歡，便同著梅進到裡頭報與顏夫人知道，顏夫人欣喜更不必說。李性全就同元茂、聘才到上頭去道了喜。少頃，士燮回家，有些同僚親友陸續而來，一連忙了幾日。便接著李先生赴任日期，士燮又與先生餞行。到動身那一日，子玉同了元茂、聘才直送出城外三十五里，到宿店住下。性全囑咐他一番，又教訓了元茂幾句道：「庾香年紀雖小於你，學問卻做得你的先生，你以後須虛心問他。」元茂連聲答應。性全又對聘才道：「小兒本同吾兄出來，我看他將來是一事無成的，一切全仗照應。」聘才亦諾諾連聲。子玉是孝友性成，臨別依依，不忍分手，只得與元茂送了先生，同了聘才灑淚而別。
士燮也擇於三月初十日動身，今日已是初五了。顏夫人與士燮說道：「新年上，孫家太太為媒，與王表嫂面訂了二姑娘，將玉簪子為定。你如今又遠行了，也須過個禮，不是這樣就算的，別要教人怪起來。」士燮笑道：「你不說我竟想不起，這個是必要的，明日就請孫伯敬為媒就是了。」正說話間，孫亮功來拜，士燮出見，問了起程日子，便說起他的夫人的意思來，說：「新年與王家訂親，彼此是娘兒們行事，究竟也須行過禮，方才成個局面。況你此去也須三年才回，不應似這樣草草。」士燮道：「我們正商量到此，原打算來請吾兄。明日先過個帖，大禮俟將來再行罷。」亮功答應了。
次日，顏夫人備了彩盒禮帖，請亮功來，送了過去。文輝處回禮豐盛，有顏仲清幫同亮功押了回來，士燮備酒相待。是日不請外客，就請聘才、元茂相陪。這李元茂今日福至心靈，說話竟清楚起來。性全出京時留下二百兩銀子與他，元茂買了幾件衣裳，混身光亮。亮功眼力本是平常，今見了元茂團頭大臉，書氣滿容，便許為佳士，大有餘潤之意，便問起他的姻事來。仲清早已看明，便竭力贊揚。李元茂不知就裡，樂得了不得，心裡著實感激仲清。且按下這邊。
再說子玉在家無趣，趁他們吃酒時，便帶了雲兒去找劉文澤、史南湘。
先到了文澤處，不在家，去找南湘，恰好文澤的車也到南湘門口。子玉道：「我方才找你。」文澤道：「失候。我去找馮子佩，適值他進城去了。」說著遂一同進去，到南湘書房坐了。伺候南湘的龍兒送了茶道：「我們少爺，這時候還沒有起身呢！」說罷進去了，一盞茶時候，見南湘科頭赤腳，披著件女棉襖出來道：「你們來得好早。」子玉見了，便笑道：「我吃過了飯才來的。」文澤道：「好模樣，拿你們夫人的衣裳都穿出來，難道你們夫人也沒有起身麼？」南湘道：「他起身多時了。我方才睡醒，聽見你們二人來，我不及穿衣，隨手拉著一件就出來的。」就有龍兒拿上臉水，還有個虎兒送出衣裳靴帽。南湘洗了臉，慢慢的穿戴起來，便笑嘻嘻的向子玉作了一個揖道：「恭喜，恭喜！你瞞著我們定的好情。」子玉只當說他定親，倒害躁起來。文澤道：「定得什麼情？」南湘道：「前日我在度香處，他說有個叫杜玉儂，是古往今來第一個名旦，被庚香獨佔去子。他們還在怡園唱了一齣《定情》。」文澤道：「那個叫杜玉儂？我們怎麼也沒有見過。」南湘道：「好得很。據度香、靜宜品題，似乎在寶珠之上，我卻不認得。庚香今日何不同我們去賞鑑賞鑒？」子玉聽了，才知不是問他定親，然卻是初出茅廬，不比他們舞席歌場鬧慣的了，卻躁得回答不出了。文澤再三盤問，只得答道：「這玉儂就是琴言，你們也都見過的。」文澤道：「真冤枉殺人，我們不要說沒有見過，連這名字都沒有聽見過。」子玉道：「怎麼冤枉你們？難道正月初六在姑蘇會館唱《驚夢》那個小旦，你們忘了不成？」文澤想了一會道：「是了，是了。這麼樣你更該罰。那一天你們四目相窺，兩心相照，人人都看得出來。我問你，你還抵賴說認都不認得，如此欺人。今日沒有別的，快同我們去，難道如今還能說不認得麼？」南湘大笑道：「認得個相公，也不算什麼對人不住的事情。庚香真有深閨處女，屏角窺人之態。今日看你怎樣支吾，快去，快去！今日就在他那裡吃飯。」子玉被他們這一頓說笑，就想剖白也副白不來，只覺羞羞澀澀的說道：「憑你們怎樣說罷，我是沒有的，我也不知道他住在什麼地方。」南湘道：「你又撒謊。」文澤道：「若是那一個，我倒打聽了，只知道他叫琴官，是曹長慶新買的徒弟，住在櫻桃巷秋水堂。」南湘道：「走罷！」即向龍兒吩咐外面套車。子玉道：「我是不去。」南湘道：「好，好！有了心上人，連朋友都不要了，你是要一人獨樂的。」便拉了子玉上車，一徑往櫻桃巷琴言處來。
文澤的跟班進去，一問琴言不在家，聽得裡頭說道，就是劉大人帶到春喜園去了。文澤一個沒趣，子玉倒覺喜歡。南湘道：「那裡去？我還沒有吃飯，對門不是妙香堂素蘭家麼，咱們就找香畹去。」文澤道：「只怕也未必在家。叫人去問一問。「素蘭卻好在家，裡頭有人出來，請了進去，到客廳坐下，送了茶。文澤問子玉道」香畹你見過沒有？」子玉道：「沒有。」
南湘道：「此君丰韻，足並袁蘇，為梨園三鼎足。」不多一會，素蘭出來，與南湘、文澤見了，又與子玉相見。素蘭把子玉細細打量了一番，問文澤道：「這位可姓梅？」文澤向子玉道：「又對出謊來了，你方才說不認識他，他怎麼又認識你呢？」子玉真不明白，恰難分辯，倒是素蘭道：「認是並不認得，被我一猜就猜著了。」南船道：「我恰不信，那裡有猜得這麼准。你若是猜得著他的名字，就算你是神仙。」素蘭道：「他名字有個玉字，號叫庾香，可是不是的？」南湘、文澤大笑道：
「這卻叫我們試出來了，還賴說不認識。我們當庾香是個至誠人，誰知他倒善於撒謊。」說得子玉兩頰微紅，這個委屈，無人可訴。細看素蘭的面貌，與自己覺有些相像，恐怕被南湘、文澤看出說笑，他便走開，去看旁邊字畫。南湘對文澤道：
「你可看得出香畹像誰？」文澤道；「像庾香，我第一回見庾香，我就要說他，因為他面嫩，所以沒有說出來。」子玉權當不聽見，由他們議論。素蘭道：「你們不要糟蹋他，怎麼將我比他？」說罷拉了子玉過來，到這邊坐下。南湘道：「我們還沒有吃飯，你快拿飯來。」素蘭即吩咐廚房備飯。子玉雖見過素蘭的《舞盤》，那日為了琴言，恰未留心。今見素蘭，秀若芝蘭，▉如桃李，極清中恰生出極豔來。年紀是十七歲，穿一件蓮花色縐綢綿襖，星眸低纈，香輔微開，真令人消魂蕩魄。便暗暗十分贊歎，也不在琴言、寶珠之下，只不知性情脾氣怎樣。外面已送進酒肴來，三人也不推讓，隨意坐了。素蘭斟酒，謂子玉道：「你是頭一回來，須先敬你。」子玉接了。
隨又與南湘、文澤斟了，文澤問道：「你今日倒不上戲園子去？」素蘭道：「今日沒有我的戲，可以不去。」子玉見了素蘭也是幽閒貞靜一派，心裡就契重他。素蘭一抬頭，見子玉只管偷看他，不覺一笑，便有一種幽情豔思搖漾出來，子玉把眼一低。文澤笑道：「同了庾香出來，我們有多少算不來處。」子玉不解。文澤笑道：「有了你，譬如逛燈那一天，車中的少婦只愛你，不愛看我們了，不是算不來麼。」說得子玉脹紅了臉，道：「我倒不曉得愛什麼。」素蘭對著南湘道：「我最愛你題我的畫蘭那首《木蘭花慢》詞。」南湘道：「你填的詞，近來也好得多了。」素蘭忽然怔怔的看著子玉，如有所思，被文澤瞧破，便謂素蘭道：「你愛他麼？」素蘭又一笑。子玉便不好意思，倒坐立不安起來。素蘭對子玉道：「你今日可曾看你的相好？」子玉摸不著是誰。便道：「你說那一個？」素蘭道：「我只知道你這一個，不知道還有幾個？」子玉益發不解。南湘、文澤也猜不出來，都問道：「你說他的相好是誰？」素蘭道：「他的相好，倒天天到我這裡來，就住在對門，你怎麼過門不入？快去請了他來。」子玉方悟出是琴言，心裡想道：「怎麼他們都會知道了。」文澤道：「何如？連庾香的相好，他都知道，可見你們交情很深。」南湘道：「我們先到對門，琴言不在家，方到這裡來。」素蘭道：「原來因他不在家，你們才過來。」子玉聽了，心上恰有些過意不去，正要開口，文澤接著道：「我們從那一頭來，先過他門口，自然要先問一聲再過來，也是由近而遠一定的道理。」素蘭道：「不怪你們，也不必圓轉。我告訴你們實話罷：我與庾香恰並無一面之識，都是玉儂告訴我的。這玉儂本來與我說得來，從正月初七日起，至今便天天過來與我長談，甚為莫逆。近來往往叫我的號便叫錯了，叫我庾香。」子玉一聽，已想著琴言的意思，便覺一陣心酸，凝神斂氣的等素蘭說下來。文澤指著子玉道：「他便叫庾香，怎麼琴言叫起你庚香來？」南湘道：「這還要問？這個緣故你還猜不出來？」文澤也不開口，再聽素蘭道：「我那裡曉得他叫庾香，起初也不在意，後來常聽他叫錯，便盤問他，他不肯說。
有一日瑤卿在此，我與他說起來，瑤卿便把你們的情節，說了一個透徹。玉儂已後自己也說出來道：『我有些像你，見我如見你一樣。』所以時常到我這裡來，並不是與我真心相好，不過借我作幅畫圖小影，你道這情深不深？人家費了這片心，難得你今日來，我所以替他明白明白，教你知道，不教他白費了這片心。」子玉聽了，便如啞子吃黃連，說不出苦來，兩眼眶的酸眼淚，只好望肚子裡咽。文澤、南湘連連點頭道：「這真難得。」文澤又道：「玉儂於庾香的情，可為二十四分了，不知庾香與玉儂的情怎樣，你可知道？」素蘭道：「怎麼不知道？也是瑤卿說的。」又將徐子雲將假琴言試子玉的情節，說了一番，聽得南湘、文澤笑了又贊，贊了又笑。子玉十分難受，只得說道：「些須小事，一經人道，便添出無數枝葉來了。」當下素蘭義遣人去問，琴言尚未回來。吃過飯，講了些閒話，子玉便要素蘭寫的字。素蘭道：「現成的卻沒有。」說罷便往裡面去，不多一會，拿出一柄湘妃竹紙扇，雙手呈上道：「這是方才寫的，權且奉贈，只是不好，看不得。」子玉看時，鐵畫銀鉤，珠圓玉潤，盎然古秀可愛，圖章亦古雅。子玉作了一揖謝了。談談講講，已是申末時候，子玉要回，南湘、文澤也就同了出來，素蘭送至大門，各人上車不題。
卻說孫亮功回去與陸夫人商量，要將大女兒許與元茂，陸夫人冷笑了幾聲，不發一言，亮功不敢再說。然主意已定，明日去托王文輝為媒，文輝躊躇了半天，心裡想道：『這個白人兒，怎好嫁人？』因又想道：『那李元茂，也不是個佳婿，呆頭呆腦的，那一天作個揖，就將我的帽子碰歪，只好娶這樣媳婦。』便應允了。為這件事，特到士燮處來，將亮功之意達之士燮。士燮大喜，就請了聘才、元茂出來，聘才自然一口贊成，元茂十分暢滿。士燮就與元茂代寫了求允帖，交與文輝，於初六日過了禮帖。這是千里姻緣，百年前定，李元茂這個呆子巴不得明日就贅了過去，才可免指頭兒告了消乏。
初十日，仲清、王恂絕早過來送行，梅學士行李一切早巳收拾停妥，已於初九日打發家人押了出城。是日親友擁擠不開，時候尚早，仲清、王恂先在書房，與子玉、元茂等等候。仲清便對元茂道了喜，道：「恭喜，恭喜！你今日真得了一個雪美人。你從前不是有句詩是『白人雙目近』麼？如今倒成了詩讖了。」元茂不解，頗自得意。
少頃，士燮送了客出去，便叫出子玉來，教訓了一番。又叮囑了元茂、聘才幾句。然後與夫人別了，即上車起程，顏仲清、王恂、魏聘才、李元茂一起隨後，顏夫人領著子玉，並有些僕婦丫鬟一群的車，也送出城來。城外是王文輝、孫亮功等十幾個同年至好，一齊在旗亭餞別。士燮盤桓了一會，文輝等進城。天色不早，顏夫人也只得帶了僕婦丫鬟灑淚先回。子玉、仲清、聘才、元茂與些家人們，隨到店中住了一夜，明日叩別。
士燮又勉勵了子玉幾句，子玉也只得同仲清等哭泣而回，且按下不題。
那日徐子雲也在旗亭送行回來，且不進宅，一徑到園，即到次賢屋裡，始知次賢在桃花塢賞桃花，還有寶珠、漱芳兩個，子雲就到桃花塢來。雖是自己園中，也不能天天遊覽，數日之間，已見桃花開滿，爛若晴霞，映著一水盈盈，草茵如繡，真覺春光已滿。走進了第三重，始見曲榭之中，次賢與玉珠、漱芳在那裡喝酒。見了子雲，寶珠、漱芳已迎上來，次賢也笑面相迎。
子雲笑道：「靜宜，今日竟偏我獨樂了。」次賢道：「我知道你今日早回，先已虛左而待。」漱芳道：「你不見擺了四個坐兒麼！？」子雲即在次賢對面坐了。
次賢問道：「今日送行的人多麼？」子雲道：「人倒不少，庾香、劍潭送到前站宿店去了，要明日才回。」即指著寶珠笑道：」准有他們同隊中，不見有一個人在那裡送行，只怕這位老先生，生平也沒有叫過他們。」寶珠笑道：「這位梅大人，每逢戲酒，叫我們也伺候過幾回，人倒謙雅的，就總沒有賞過一句話兒。倒不料他生出那麼一個風流的公子。這梅庾香前日竟在香畹處吃飯，還到玉儂處，沒有遇見。據香畹說，他待玉儂的情分，竟是有一無二的。」子雲道：「你怎麼知道他去找玉儂？是他一人去的麼。」寶珠道：「是香畹對我講的，他恰與竹君、前舟二人同去，香畹還送了他一柄扇子，他們倒也合式了。」次賢道：「我看前日庾香、玉儂二人，真可謂用志不紛，乃凝於神。
這兩人既相得了，將來必要找出多少苦惱的事情來，你們慢慢的看著他們罷。」當下這四人喝了一會酒，看了一會花，次賢對寶珠道：「度香所刻那十六個酒令，你們看見沒有？」寶珠道：「怎麼沒有看見。」子雲道：「你們今日何不也照這令行幾個出來，也見見你們的心思。」寶珠尚未回答，漱芳道：「這個我們只怕行不來，一來心思欠靈，二來這唐詩與《詩經》也不甚熟，那裡能說得這樣湊拍？除非在家裡把幾種書翻出來，揀對路的一個個湊，才湊得成呢。」寶珠道：「我們真自慚愧，這些姑娘們也與我們差不多年紀，怎麼他們就有這樣慧心香口，我們就這樣笨。」子雲道：「你們今日試行一行，包管你們行得好。」便叫拿副骰子來，家人便去取了副骰子放在盆裡，送到席上。子雲便叫寶珠先擲，寶珠尚推諉不肯，經子雲、次賢逼佐了，只得說道：「何苦要我們做笑話？我非但別樣記不清，連這曲牌名也記得有限。或者庾香還能，我是定說得不好的。」只得擲起來，擲了好幾擲，擲著了一個色樣，名為綠暗紅稀，便呆呆的想來，想了一會，不得主意，便道：
「這不是尋煩惱麼？」漱芳道：「我且擲著色樣再想。」他也擲了好幾擲，擲著了「蘇秦背劍」，便道：「這更難了。」忽見寶珠問次賢道：「《詩經》上有一句什麼永歎？我記不真。」次賢道：「每有良朋，況也永歎。」寶珠道：「有是有了一個，只就是不甚好。」子雲道：「你且說來。」寶珠念道：綠暗紅稀，夢好更尋難，你晚妝樓上杏花殘。懶畫眉，況也永歎。
次賢、子雲贊道：「說得很好，第一個就這麼通，真是難得。就這《詩經》一句稍差了些，然而也還說得過。」寶珠道：「這《詩經》實在難於湊拍，又要依這個韻，覺得更難了。」漱芳道：「我想的更不好。《詩經》上不是有一句『莫我肯顧』麼？」子雲道：「有。你快說。」漱芳要念時，重又頓住，覺有些羞澀，次賢又催，只得念道：蘇秦背劍，北闕休上書，誤你玉堂金馬三學士。不是路，莫我肯顧。
子雲道：「這個說得甚好，竟句句湊拍。」次賢道：「倒實在難為他。」寶珠道：「他的比我好，不比我的雜湊。」便覺兩頰微紅，大有愧色。子雲安慰道：「你的也好，不過你的題目寬泛些，難於貼切。他這蘇秦背劍的題目就好，所以比你的容易見長。」寶珠得了這一番寬慰，稍為意解。便又擲了一個「紫燕穿簾」，便道：「這個題目倒好。」便細細的想，想了好一會，問子雲道：「我記得有『繡窗愁未眠』這一句，是詩還是詞？」子雲道：「是韓亻屋的詩。」寶珠道：「這個略好些兒。」便念道：紫燕穿簾，繡窗愁未眠，慢俄延，投至到櫳門前面。四邊靜，愛而不見。
子雲等大贊。漱芳道：「你們知道他這『四邊靜，愛而不見』，是說得什麼？」次賢笑道：「大有春恨懷人之致。」子雲也笑。漱芳笑道：「不是。他昨日飛去一個秦吉了。我昨日到他那裡去，正遇著他急急的跑出房來，四下張看。
問我道：『你看見沒有？』他方才說的，倒像那昨日的神氣。」寶珠也笑道：「今日他又回來了。」漱芳又擲，擲了一個，『花開蝶滿枝』。漱芳想了一會，說道：花開蝶滿枝，是妾斷腸時，我是散相思的五瘟使。蝶戀花，春日遲遲。次賢等大贊道：「這個更好。」寶珠道：「他總比我的說得好，我今日的兩個都不及他。」便又擲了一個『打破錦屏風』，便道：「這個題目恰好，然難也難極了，須要在打破兩字上頭著想，若得湊成了，倒是個好令。」漱芳道：「這個難，教我就湊不成，只怕那句《詩經》就不容易。」寶珠怔怔的想，想著了《唐詩》，又湊不上《西廂》，想到了《西廂》，又湊不上《詩經》，好不著急。想了好一會，問道：「《詩經》上不是有一句『何以穿我墉』麼？」次賢道：「妙極了，這一句已經穩妥，中間湊得連絡就好了。」寶珠面有喜色，欣欣的念道：
打破錦屏風，暮色滿房櫳，吉丁當敲響簾攏。月兒高，何以穿我墉。
子雲等大贊，子雲道：「這個實在妙極了，就在那十六令中也是上等。我們恭賀三杯。」寶珠始為解顏歡喜。漱芳心裡又著急起來．恐怕再行，不能及他，便道：「算了罷！實在費心得很，我不擲了。」子雲道：「這令原也費心，但只五個，他得了三個。你才兩個，你再擲一個罷？」漱芳道：
「適或色樣重了呢？」次賢道：「重了不算，須要不重的才有趣。」漱勞不得已，擲了好幾個重疊色樣，然後才擲出一個楚漢爭鋒，便道：「擲了這個，就算完結了。」子雲應允。漱勞便構思起來，一人獨自走到桃花叢中去了。子雲等也到花叢中遊玩，漱芳道：「我想倒想著了一個，就是《唐詩》這一句還有些牽強，若除了這一句，我又找不出第二句來，只好將就些罷。」便念道：楚漢爭鋒，君王自神武，你助神威擂三通鼓。急三槍，百夫之御。
大家贊好。子雲道：「今日又得了六個，共有二十二個了，將來能湊成一百個就好了。」次賢道：「一百個是不能，況且骨牌名沒有這許多，曲牌名是儘夠，不如去了這骨牌名換個別樣，或者湊得成百數。若用骨牌名，可用的也不過五六十個，內中有幾個有趣的，偏擲不著，如公領孫、锺馗抹額、貪花不滿，三十禿爪龍等類，湊起來必有妙語。就是限定《西廂》也窄一點兒，不如用曲文一句就寬了。惟有那推倒油瓶蓋一個難些。」子雲道：「《詩經》上『瓶之罄矣』好用，曲牌名用《油葫蘆》。」次賢道：「《西廂》呢，用那一句？」子雲想了一想，笑道：「《西廂》上可用的恰又不是這個韻。」四人在花下坐了，子雲問起琴言今日何以不來，寶珠道：「今日他又替我到堂會裡去了。他就有一樣好處，他唱戲時並不很留心關目，他那丰韻生得好，就將他自己的神情，行乎所當行，倒比那戲文上的老關目還好些。所以才有人說他生疏，也有人說他神妙。」子雲笑道：「以後梅庾香，大約非玉儂之戲不看，非玉儂的之酒不喝的了。」漱芳笑道：「玉儂行事還沒媚香的奇，近來聞他天天到宏濟寺去一回。有個什麼田湘帆，也是個風流名士，鬧到不堪。後來見了媚香的戲，便天天跟著他的車，他往東就往東，他往西就往西，跟了整個月。媚香憐念他，與他一談，倒談成了知己，如今是莫逆得很，不可一日不見。」次賢笑道：「有這等事！我看媚香真算個鶻伶淥老不尋常，竟有人籠絡得住他麼．這人必是不凡。」正說得高興時，忽子雲的家人上前說：「有客來拜！」子雲便冠服出去。
不知後事如何，且聽下回分解。
The story continues with Shi Nanxiang entering the room and meeting with Zhongqing and Wang Xun. After having a few cups of tea, Wang Xun asked him where he came from. Nanxiang recounted the events of the day, including the circumstances of Chunhang and Huifang. Wang Xun and Zhongqing were envious. Zhongqing remarked, “I didn’t expect Su Meixiang to be capable of such things; from now on, Tian Xiangfan can really change for the better.” He also mentioned the previous day’s event where they gave advice through painting. He mentioned that Chunhang was still upset. Nanxiang suggested, “How about I mediate between you guys another day?” When asked about Ziyu, Zhongqing said, “Geng Xiang was here during the day; his Mr. Li has been appointed as a county magistrate in Anhui at the beginning of the month and will be leaving soon.” After Nanxiang said a few words, he left without further mention.
Meanwhile, Ziyu had a long talk at Wang Xun’s place before heading home. Mr. Li had already resigned from his position to prepare for his new role, and Wei Pin had managed to arrange a boat for him. Through Zhang Zhongyu, he borrowed a large sum of silver and managed to gather more than two hundred gold pieces to supplement his clothing and even hired a few days’ service. Li Yuanmao wanted to register his household in Beijing, which was agreed upon.
That evening, Ziyu and Wei Pin chatted casually in the study. It was a memorial day, and during the day, Wei Pin went alone to Cherry Lane and found Ye Maolin; they talked for a long time. Wei Pin invited him to eat at the Pancake Tower, then they visited some young male opera singers’ residences and went to several tea houses. At last, they went to Qin Yan’s place, who came out to talk with Wei Pin, asking about Ziyu. Wei Pin then embellished Ziyu’s feelings, which genuinely touched Qin Yan, and they agreed to meet the next day. When Wei Pin informed Ziyu, he added another worry to his mind and couldn’t sleep all night. That evening, Shi Xie was on duty in the minister’s office and did not return. The next day, Ziyu planned to go see Qin Yan with Wei Pin. Suddenly, Mei Jin entered with a beaming smile, saying, “Congratulations, young master, the lord has been relieved from his educational duties in Jiangxi, and the bearer of good news is at the door.” Ziyu felt happy upon hearing this and went with Mei Jin to inform Madam Yan, who was overjoyed beyond words. Li Xingquan then went with Yuanmao and Wei Pin to convey their congratulations. Soon after, Shi Xie returned home, followed by colleagues and friends, keeping them busy for several days. As Li Xingquan’s departure day approached, Shi Xie also saw him off. On the day of departure, Ziyu, Yuanmao, and Wei Pin accompanied him thirty-five miles out of town to an inn. Xingquan gave them some advice and instructed Yuanmao, saying, “Although Yu Xiang is younger than you, his learning makes him your teacher; you must humble yourself and learn from him.” Yuanmao repeatedly agreed. Xingquan also told Wei Pin, “This child has come out with my brother, but I foresee that he will achieve nothing; please take good care of him.” Wei Pin also readily agreed. As a person of filial piety and friendship, Ziyu found it hard to part, and with tears, they bid farewell.
Shi Xie also planned to depart on the tenth day of March, and today was the fifth. Madam Yan said to Shi Xie, “At the beginning of the new year, Madam Sun acted as a go-between for the engagement with Wang’s cousin for the second daughter, securing it with a jade hairpin. Now that you are traveling far, you should properly perform the rites; it can’t just be left as is, lest people think ill of us.” Shi Xie laughed, “Had you not mentioned it, I would have forgotten entirely; it’s essential indeed. Tomorrow, I’ll ask Uncle Sun to act as the go-between.” While they were talking, Sun Lianggong came to visit, and Shi Xie went out to meet him. They discussed the date of departure, and Shi Xie mentioned his wife’s intentions, saying, “Since we’re engaged to the Wang family, it’s proper for the women to perform the rituals thoroughly. Besides, you won’t be back for three years; it shouldn’t be rushed like this.” Shi Xie replied, “We were just discussing this, and planned to invite my brother. We’ll send an initial gift tomorrow, and the grand ceremony can wait until later.” Lianggong agreed.
The next day, Madam Yan prepared a colorful gift box and invitation for Lianggong, which was sent over. Wen Hui responded with a generous return gift, with Yan Zhongqing and Lianggong escorting it back, and Shi Xie prepared a feast in their honor. That day, they didn’t invite other guests, only Wei Pin and Yuanmao. Li Yuanmao, inspired that day, spoke clearly for once. Xingquan had left him two hundred taels of silver when he left Beijing; Yuanmao bought some clothes, making himself quite presentable. Lianggong, who was generally unobservant, now saw Yuanmao’s scholarly demeanor and considered him a promising scholar, hinting at a potential match. He inquired about his marital prospects. Zhongqing, having understood the situation, praised him vigorously. Yuanmao, unaware of the arrangements, was overjoyed and deeply grateful to Zhongqing. Let’s leave this story here for now.
Returning to Ziyu, finding no joy at home, he took the opportunity while others were drinking to go out with Yuner to find Liu Wenzhe and Shi Nanxiang.
First, they went to Wenzhe’s place, but he wasn’t home, so they went to find Nanxiang, coincidentally just as Wenzhe’s carriage also arrived at Nanxiang’s door. Ziyu said, “I was just looking for you.” Wenzhe replied, “Sorry for the wait. I went to look for Feng Zipei, just as he went into town.” They entered together and sat in Nanxiang’s study. Nanxiang’s servant Long’er brought tea and said, “Our young master hasn’t gotten up yet!” After a while, Nanxiang came out barefoot and wearing a woman’s cotton jacket, saying, “You guys are early.” Ziyu laughed, “I had breakfast before coming.” Wenzhe said, “Nice look, wearing your wife’s clothes. Didn’t she get up either?” Nanxiang replied, “She’s been up for a while. I just woke up and heard you two were here; I didn’t have time to dress and just grabbed something to wear.” Long’er brought water for washing up, and another servant, Hu’er, brought out clothes and boots. After washing, Nanxiang dressed slowly and jokingly bowed to Ziyu, saying, “Congratulations, congratulations! You’ve made a fine match without telling us.” Ziyu, thinking he was referring to his engagement, became annoyed. Wenzhe asked, “What match?” Nanxiang explained, “The other day at Duoxiang’s place, she mentioned a Du Yulong, claimed to be the best famous courtesan of all times, now monopolized by Geng Xiang. They even performed ‘Setting the Heart’ at Yiyuan.” Wenzhe replied, “Du Yulong? We haven’t even met her.” Nanxiang responded, “She’s very good. According to Duoxiang and Jingyi’s assessment, she’s even above Baozhu, though I don’t know her. Why doesn’t Geng Xiang join us today to appreciate her?” Ziyu, realizing they weren’t discussing his engagement, felt out of his depth, not used to their accustomed raucous entertainment. He was so flustered he couldn’t respond. After repeated questioning by Wenzhe, he finally said, “This Yulong is actually Qin Yan, whom you’ve both met.” Wenzhe exclaimed, “You’re really unjustly killing us; not only have we not seen her, we haven’t even heard the name.” Ziyu replied, “How am I unjust to you? Don’t you remember the young dan who sang ‘Shocking Dream’ at the Gusu Guild on the sixth day of the first month?” After thinking for a moment, Wenzhe said, “Yes, yes. In that case, you deserve a penalty. That day, everyone could see the looks you exchanged, the understanding in your eyes. I asked you, and you denied even knowing her. Such deception! There’s nothing else for it today; come with us, and don’t say you don’t know her now.” Nanxiang laughed, “Knowing a lady isn’t something to be ashamed of. Geng Xiang really has the demeanor of a sheltered maiden peeping from behind a screen. Today, let’s see how you squirm; let’s go, let’s go! We’ll eat there today.” Ziyu, teased mercilessly by them, felt unable to clear his name, only feeling bashfully embarrassed as he said, “Say what you will, I have nothing of the sort, and I don’t know where she lives.” Nanxiang retorted, “You’re lying again.” Wenzhe added, “If it’s the one I’m thinking of, I’ve inquired about her; she’s known as Qin Guan, a new apprentice bought by Cao Changqing, living in Qiu Shuitang on Cherry Lane.” Nanxiang declared, “Let’s go!” then ordered Long’er to prepare the carriage. Ziyu protested, “I’m not going.” Nanxiang concluded, “Fine, fine! With a sweetheart, you don’t even need friends anymore; you want to enjoy her alone.” He then pulled Ziyu onto the carriage, and they headed straight to Qin Yan’s place on Cherry Lane.
Wenzhe’s attendant went inside and found out that Qin Yan was not home, having been taken to Chunxi Garden by Lord Liu. Wenzhe was disappointed, but Ziyu seemed pleased. Nanxiang said, “Where shall we go? I haven’t eaten yet. Isn’t that Miaoxiang Tang across from us, Su Lan’s place? Let’s go find Xiang Wan.” Wenzhe said, “She might not be home either. Let’s send someone to ask.” Fortunately, Su Lan was at home. Someone came out and invited them in. They sat down in the living room and were served tea. Wenzhe asked Ziyu, “Have you met Xiang Wan?” Ziyu replied, “No.”
Nanxiang said, “This gentleman is graceful, a match for Yuan Su, a pillar of the Pear Garden.” Shortly, Su Lan came out and met Nanxiang and Wenzhe, and then Ziyu. She scrutinized Ziyu and asked Wenzhe, “Is this Mr. Mei?” Wenzhe said to Ziyu, “You’ve been caught in a lie again; you just said you didn’t know him, so how does he know you?” Ziyu was genuinely confused and had a hard time explaining, but Su Lan said, “It’s not that he knows him; I guessed it.” Nanxiang said, “I don’t believe it, it’s too precise to be just a guess. If you can guess his name, you must be a deity.” Su Lan asked, “His name has the character ‘Yu’ in it, and he’s called Yu Xiang, isn’t he?” Nanxiang and Wenzhe laughed, saying, “We’ve caught you in a lie about not knowing him. We thought Yu Xiang was honest, but it turns out he’s good at lying.” Ziyu blushed with embarrassment, feeling unjustly accused.
Examining Su Lan’s features, Ziyu noticed she looked somewhat like himself and feared Nanxiang and Wenzhe would tease him about it, so he moved away to look at some calligraphy and paintings. Nanxiang asked Wenzhe, “Can you see whom Xiang Wan resembles?” Wenzhe replied, “She looks like Yu Xiang. When I first met Yu Xiang, I wanted to say something because he looked so youthful, but I didn’t speak up.” Ziyu pretended not to hear their discussion. Su Lan said, “Don’t malign him, how can you compare me to him?” She then pulled Ziyu over to sit with them. Nanxiang said, “We haven’t eaten yet; please bring some food.” Su Lan instructed the kitchen to prepare a meal. Although Ziyu had seen Su Lan’s ‘Dancing Plates’ before, he hadn’t paid much attention that day because of Qin Yan. Seeing Su Lan now, as delicate as an orchid and as radiant as peach and plum blossoms, strikingly beautiful yet with a vivid presence, he was greatly impressed. She was seventeen, dressed in a lotus-colored silk cotton jacket, her eyes downcast, lips slightly parted, truly enchanting. He admired her quietly, thinking she was no less than Qin Yan or Baozhu, though he didn’t know her temperament yet.
The food and wine were served, and the three of them sat down without any formality. Su Lan poured wine and said to Ziyu, “This is your first visit; I must toast you first.” Ziyu accepted the toast.
She then poured for Nanxiang and Wenzhe. Wenzhe asked, “Aren’t you supposed to be at the theater today?” Su Lan replied, “I have no performances today, so I don’t need to go.” Ziyu, seeing Su Lan’s serene and virtuous demeanor, felt a deeper connection with her. Su Lan looked up, caught Ziyu staring at her, and smiled, a subtle charm emanating from her. Ziyu quickly looked away. Wenzhe joked, “Being out with Yu Xiang, there’s a lot we can’t calculate.” Ziyu didn’t understand. Wenzhe continued, “With you around, like the day we went to see the lanterns, the young woman in the carriage only had eyes for you, not for us. Isn’t that incalculable?” Ziyu’s face flushed as he said, “I really don’t understand what’s to love.” Su Lan told Nanxiang, “I love the poem you wrote about my painting of orchids, ‘Mulanhua Slow.’” Nanxiang replied, “Your recent lyrics have improved a lot.” Suddenly, Su Lan stared pensively at Ziyu, which Wenzhe noticed and asked her, “Do you love him?” Su Lan smiled again. Ziyu felt uncomfortable and shifted uneasily. Su Lan asked Ziyu, “Did you see your beloved today?” Ziyu, puzzled, asked, “Which one are you talking about?” Su Lan replied, “I only know of this one; how many do you have?” Ziyu was even more confused. Nanxiang and Wenzhe also couldn’t figure it out and asked, “Who is his beloved?” Su Lan said, “His beloved comes to my place every day, living right across the street. Why don’t you go and invite him over?” Ziyu then realized she was talking about Qin Yan and thought, “How do they all know about this?” Wenzhe said, “See? Even Yu Xiang’s beloved knows him well, which shows how close you two are.” Nanxiang added, “We first went to the opposite side; since Qin Yan wasn’t home, we came here.” Su Lan said, “So you came here because he wasn’t home.” Ziyu felt somewhat guilty and was about to speak when Wenzhe continued, “We came from that direction and naturally asked first before coming here; it’s simply logical to go from near to far.” Su Lan said, “I don’t blame you, and there’s no need for excuses. I’ll tell you the truth: I don’t know Yu Xiang at all; it was Yulong who told me about him. Yulong gets along well with me, and from the seventh day of the first month, she has been coming here daily for long talks, which are very agreeable. Recently, she often calls me by the wrong name, calling me Yu Xiang.” Upon hearing this, Ziyu, already aware of Qin Yan’s intentions, felt a pang of sorrow, listening intently as Su Lan continued. Wenzhe pointed at Ziyu and asked, “If she calls him Yu Xiang, how come Qin Yan calls you Geng Xiang?” Nanxiang said, “Isn’t the reason obvious?” Wenzhe didn’t speak, waiting for Su Lan to continue, “I didn’t know he was called Yu Xiang; at first, I didn’t care, but after hearing her repeatedly get it wrong, I questioned her, and she wouldn’t say.
One day, Yaoqing was here, and when I talked to her about it, Yaoqing explained everything clearly. Yulong later admitted, ‘I look somewhat like you, seeing me is like seeing you.’ That’s why she often comes here, not truly out of affection for me but rather using me as a stand-in, a silhouette for her painting. Do you think this affection is deep? Someone has put so much effort into this, and it’s rare for you to come here, so I wanted to make it clear for her, to let you know, so her efforts aren’t wasted.” Ziyu felt as if he had swallowed bitterness, unable to express his discomfort, his eyes brimming with tears, which he had to swallow. Wenzhe and Nanxiang nodded repeatedly, saying, “This is truly rare.” Wenzhe added, “Yulong’s affection for Yu Xiang could be rated as perfect, but I wonder how Yu Xiang feels about Yulong; do you know?” Su Lan replied, “How could I not know? Yaoqing told me.” She then recounted the episode where Xu Ziyun pretended to be Qin Yan to test Ziyu’s feelings, which made Nanxiang and Wenzhe laugh and praise, then laugh again. Ziyu, feeling very uncomfortable, could only say, “A minor matter, once spoken of by others, grows into countless branches.” At that moment, someone went to check, and Qin Yan had not yet returned. After eating and chatting for a while, Ziyu asked for Su Lan’s calligraphy. Su Lan said, “I don’t have any ready.” After a while, she went inside and came out with a bamboo paper fan, which she had just written on, presenting it with both hands, saying, “This is freshly written, just a casual gift; it’s not very good, not worth looking at.” When Ziyu saw it, the calligraphy was strong and fluid, anciently elegant and charming, with an ancient and graceful seal. Ziyu bowed in thanks. As the evening approached, Ziyu prepared to leave, and Nanxiang and Wenzhe also came out. Su Lan saw them to the door, and they each got into their carriages without further mention.
Meanwhile, Sun Lianggong went back and discussed with Madame Lu the idea of betrothing their eldest daughter to Yuanmao. Madame Lu scoffed several times but said nothing, and Lianggong did not dare to speak further. However, his mind was made up, and the next day he planned to ask Wang Wenhui to act as a go-between. Wenhui hesitated for a long
time, thinking, “How can this simple man be suitable for marriage?” Then he thought, “Li Yuanmao is not an ideal son-in-law either, dull and clumsy; the day he bowed, he knocked my hat askew, only such a daughter-in-law would suit him.” He then agreed. For this matter, he specifically went to Shi Xie’s place to convey Lianggong’s intentions to Shi Xie. Shi Xie was delighted and called out Wei Pin and Yuanmao. Wei Pin naturally agreed immediately, and Yuanmao was very pleased. Shi Xie then had Yuanmao draft a marriage proposal letter, which he handed over to Wenhui, and on the sixth day, the formal proposal was sent. This was a match made thousands of miles away, determined a century ago. Yuanmao, the simpleton, could not wait for tomorrow to become a son-in-law, just to alleviate his fatigue.
On the tenth day, Zhongqing and Wang Xun came early to send off Scholar Mei. All his luggage had been packed and sent out of the city with his family on the ninth. On the day of his departure, the place was crowded with friends and family. It was still early, so Zhongqing and Wang Xun first waited in the study with Ziyu, Yuanmao, and others. Zhongqing congratulated Yuanmao, saying, “Congratulations, congratulations! Today you truly won a beauty as pure as snow. Didn’t you have a poem before that went ‘The fair one’s eyes draw near’? Now it seems like a prophetic verse.” Yuanmao didn’t quite understand but was pleased with himself.
After a while, Shi Xie sent the guests away and called Ziyu out for some final instructions, also giving a few words of advice to Yuanmao and Wei Pin. Then, he bid farewell to his wife and set off in his carriage, followed by Yan Zhongqing, Wang Xun, Wei Pin, and Li Yuanmao. Madame Yan, leading Ziyu and accompanied by a group of maids and servants, also went to see them off outside the city. Outside the city gates, Wang Wenhui, Sun Lianggong, and several close peers gathered at the pavilion to say their farewells. After lingering for a while, Wenhui and others returned to the city. As it was getting late, Madame Yan had to return home with the servants and maids, tears streaming down her face. Ziyu, Zhongqing, Wei Pin, Yuanmao, and some family members stayed overnight at an inn, planning to say their final goodbyes the next day.
Shi Xie also encouraged Ziyu with a few more words. Ziyu, along with Zhongqing and others, returned home weeping, and let’s leave it unmentioned for now.
That day, Xu Ziyun also returned from the pavilion send-off and went straight to the garden, specifically to the Hermitage of the Second Sage, only to find out that the Second Sage was at the Peach Blossom Thicket admiring the blossoms with Baozhu and Shu Fang. Ziyun then went to the Peach Blossom Thicket. Although it was his own garden, he couldn’t visit every day. Within a few days, the peach blossoms had bloomed profusely, radiant as a clear sky, reflecting over the water, the grass as detailed as embroidery, truly a full embrace of spring. Entering the third enclosure, he saw the Second Sage drinking with Yu Zhu and Shu Fang in the curved pavilion. Upon seeing Ziyun, Baozhu and Shu Fang came up to greet him, and the Second Sage also welcomed him with a smile.
Ziyun laughed and said, “Jingyi, today it seems I alone get to enjoy this pleasure.” The Second Sage said, “I knew you’d be back early today and have been waiting in vain.” Shu Fang said, “Didn’t you see the four seats we set out?” Ziyun then sat across from the Second Sage.
The Second Sage asked, “How many came to the send-off today?” Ziyun replied, “There were quite a few. Yu Xiang and Jian Tan went to the previous station’s inn and won’t be back until tomorrow.” Pointing at Baozhu, he joked, “There must be some from their group there. No one was seen at the send-off; perhaps this old gentleman never called on them.” Baozhu laughed and said, “This Mr. Mei, whenever there’s a play or a banquet, has called us to serve a few times. He’s quite modest and never once praised us in words. Unexpectedly, he has such a romantic son. Mei Yu Xiang was actually dining at Xiang Wan’s place the other day and even went to Yulong’s place but didn’t meet her. According to Xiang Wan, his affection for Yulong is truly unmatched.”
Ziyun asked, “How do you know he went to find Yulong? Did he go alone?” Baozhu replied, “Xiang Wan told me about it. He went with Zhu Jun and Qian Zhou, and Xiang Wan even gave him a fan; they matched quite well.” The Second Sage commented, “I saw Yu Xiang and Yulong together the other day; they really seemed focused and connected in spirit.
Since these two have found each other, they are bound to face many troubles ahead, just watch.” After this, the four of them drank for a while and admired the flowers. The Second Sage asked Baozhu, “Have you seen the sixteen drinking commands carved by Duoxiang?” Baozhu replied, “How could I not have seen them
?” Ziyun suggested, “Why don’t you also try some of those commands today, and let’s see your creativity.” Baozhu hadn’t answered when Shu Fang said, “I’m afraid we can’t do it. First, our wit isn’t sharp enough, and second, we’re not very familiar with Tang poetry and the Book of Songs, how could we match them up so well? Unless we pick out several books at home, find the matching ones, and piece them together.” Baozhu felt ashamed, “We are truly embarrassed. These girls are about our age, how come they have such clever and eloquent minds, and we are so dull.” Ziyun said, “Try one today, I guarantee you’ll do well.” He then called for a pair of dice, and a servant fetched them and placed them on the table. Ziyun asked Baozhu to roll first, but she hesitated and was reluctant. After being pressed by Ziyun and the Second Sage, she reluctantly said, “Why must you make us the butt of jokes? Not only do I not remember other things clearly, even these tune names I barely recall. Perhaps Yu Xiang could do it, but I certainly can’t do well.” She then rolled the dice several times, finally landing on a pattern called ‘Green Dim, Red Sparse,’ and sat puzzled for a while, unable to decide, and said:
“Isn’t this just inviting trouble?” Shu Fang said, “Let me roll and think about the pattern.” She also rolled several times and landed on ‘Su Qin Carrying Swords,’ and said, “This is even harder.” Suddenly Baozhu asked the Second Sage, “Is there a line in the Book of Songs about eternal sighing? I can’t remember it clearly.” The Second Sage replied, “Every good friend, alas, forever sighs.” Baozhu said, “There’s one, but it’s not very good.” Ziyun said, “Just say it.” Baozhu recited: Green dim, red sparse, it’s hard to seek dreams again, your evening makeup on the tower, apricot flowers faded. Lazy to paint the eyebrows, alas, forever sighs.
The Second Sage and Ziyun praised, “That’s very good, to get it right on the first try is truly rare. Just that line from the Book of Songs is a bit weak, but it still passes.” Baozhu said, “Matching the Book of Songs is really hard, especially with this rhyme, it feels even harder.” Shu Fang said, “Mine is even worse. Isn’t there a line in the Book of Songs that says ‘No one deigns to look at me’?” Ziyun said, “There is. Quick, say it.” Shu Fang hesitated again, feeling a bit shy, but the Second Sage urged her on, and she reluctantly recited: Su Qin carrying swords, stop sending letters to the northern palace, you’ve mistaken the three scholars in the golden horse hall. It’s not the way, no one deigns to look at me.
Ziyun said, “This one is very good, fitting each sentence.” The Second Sage said, “It’s really hard for her.” Baozhu said, “Hers is better than mine, not as mixed as mine.” She felt her cheeks turning red, deeply embarrassed. Ziyun comforted, “Yours is also good, just that your theme is broader, harder to fit precisely. Her theme of ‘Su Qin carrying swords’ is good, so it’s easier for her to excel.” Baozhu felt somewhat relieved by this reassurance. She then rolled ‘Purple Swallows Flying Through the Curtains,’ and said, “This theme is good.” She thought carefully for a while and asked Ziyun, “I remember a line, ‘The embroidered window worries sleepless,’ is that from a poem or a lyric?” Ziyun replied, “It’s from Han Yu’s poem.” Baozhu said, “This one is a bit better.” Then she recited: Purple swallows fly through the curtains, the embroidered window worries sleepless, slowly delaying, reaching the bamboo door in front. All around is quiet, love unseen.
Ziyun and others greatly praised her. Shu Fang asked, “Do you know what he means by ‘All around is quiet, love unseen’?” The Second Sage laughed, “It truly carries the sentiment of spring longing for someone.” Ziyun also laughed. Shu Fang laughed, “No. He had a guest named Qin Ji fly away yesterday. I went to his place yesterday, just as he rushed out of the room, looking all around.
He asked me, ‘Did you see it?’ What he said just now was just like his demeanor yesterday.” Baozhu also laughed, “Today he’s come back.” Shu Fang rolled again
, landing on ‘Butterflies Fill the Branches.’ After thinking for a while, she said: Butterflies fill the branches, it’s the time when my heart breaks, I am the emissary of scattered lovesickness. Butterflies in love, spring days linger. The Second Sage and others praised, “This one is even better.” Baozhu said, “She always speaks better than me; my two today don’t match hers.” She then rolled ‘Breaking the Brocade Screen,’ and said, “This theme is just right, but it’s extremely difficult, it needs to focus on the two words ‘breaking,’ if it can be matched, it’s a good command.” Shu Fang said, “This one is difficult, I just can’t match it, probably that line from the Book of Songs won’t be easy.” Baozhu, deep in thought, remembered a line from the Tang poems, couldn’t match it with ‘West Chamber,’ thought of ‘West Chamber,’ but couldn’t match it with the Book of Songs, extremely anxious. After thinking for a while, she asked, “Isn’t there a line in the Book of Songs that says ‘How to breach my walls’?” The Second Sage said, “Excellent, this line is already perfect, just need to match the middle connections.” Baozhu’s face lit up with joy, and she eagerly recited:
Breaking the brocade screen, twilight fills the room, jingling sounds as the curtain knocks. The moon is high, how to breach my walls.
Ziyun and others praised greatly, Ziyun said, “This one is truly wonderful, even among those sixteen commands, it’s top-notch. We congratulate with three cups.” Baozhu began to smile happily. Shu Fang felt anxious again, fearing another round wouldn’t match up, and said, “Let’s stop! It’s really too taxing, I won’t roll anymore.” Ziyun said, “This command is indeed taxing, but only five have been done, he’s won three. You’ve only done two, try one more?” Shu Fang said:
“What if I repeat a pattern?” The Second Sage said, “A repeat doesn’t count, it must be a unique one to be interesting.” Shu Fang reluctantly rolled several repeated patterns, then finally rolled ‘Chu and Han Contend,’ and said, “After this one, let’s call it finished.” Ziyun agreed. Shu Fang then started to think, walking alone into the peach blossoms. Ziyun and others also went to play among the flowers, Shu Fang said, “I thought of one, but this line from the Tang poems is a bit forced, if not for this line, I couldn’t find a second line, just have to make do.” She then recited: Chu and Han contend, the king himself is divinely martial, you assist the divine might, beating the triple drums. Three quick spears, a hundred men’s defense.
Everyone praised it well. Ziyun said, “Today we’ve gotten six, making a total of twenty-two, it would be good if we could reach a hundred in the future.” The Second Sage said, “A hundred is not possible, besides, there aren’t that many bone tile names, tune names are enough, rather than using bone tile names, switch to another style, maybe we can reach a hundred. If we use bone tile names, there are only about fifty or sixty usable ones, among them, a few interesting ones are hard to roll, like ‘Public Leads Grandson,’ ‘Zhong Kui Wipes His Brow,’ ‘Greedy for Flowers Not Satisfied,’ ‘Thirty Bald Dragon Claws,’ etc., when matched up they must have brilliant phrases. Limiting to ‘West Chamber’ is also a bit narrow, using a line from the lyrics is broader. Only that ‘Tipping Over the Oil Bottle Cover’ is a bit difficult.” Ziyun said, “From the Book of Songs, ‘The bottle is emptied’ works well, use ‘Oil Gourd’ for the tune name.” The Second Sage said, “What about ‘West Chamber,’ which line to use?” Ziyun thought for a moment and laughed, “From ‘West Chamber,’ the usable ones just don’t fit this rhyme.” The four sat under the flowers, and Ziyun asked why Qin Yan didn’t come today, Baozhu said, “Today he went to a meeting on my behalf again. He has one good quality, he doesn’t pay much attention to the plot when he sings, his charm is well-born, just letting his own emotions flow appropriately, it’s better than sticking to the old plot of the opera. That’s why some say he’s unfamiliar, while others say he’s marvelous.” Ziyun laughed, “From now on, Mei Yu Xiang, probably won’t watch any plays or drink any wine that isn’t Yulong’s.” Shu Fang laughed, “Yulong’s actions aren’t as strange as Mei Xiang’s, recently heard he goes to Hongji Temple every day. There’s a Tian Xiangfan, also a romantic scholar, who caused a commotion to the point of unbearable. Later, after seeing Mei Xiang’s play, he followed her carriage every day, wherever she went east, he went east, and west, he went west, followed her for a whole month. Mei Xiang pitied him, had a talk with him, and they ended up becoming close friends, now they can’t go a day without seeing each other.” The Second Sage laughed, “Such a thing! I see Mei Xiang is truly an unusual and compelling figure, actually having someone who could charm her. This person must be extraordinary.” As they were talking happily, suddenly Ziyun’s servant came forward and said, “A guest has come to visit!” Ziyun then dressed up and went out to greet the guest.
What happens next will be revealed in the following chapter.