話說琴言病體懨懨，閉門謝客，只有同班中幾個相好時來寬慰。寶珠、素蘭又說子玉前日的光景，又不能常來看你，托我們傳話，千萬保重等語，琴言更加傷感。自患病以來，各處不去，怡園亦屏跡已久。奈其師長慶靠他做個搖錢樹，因其久病，不能見客，便也少了好些興頭。
大凡做戲班師傅的，原是旦腳出身，三十年中便有四變。
你說那四變：少年時丰姿美秀，人所鍾愛，鑿開混沌，兩陽相交，人說是兔。到二十歲後，人也長大了，相貌也蠢笨了，尚要搔頭弄姿，華冠麗服。遇唱戲時，不顧羞恥，極意騷浪，扭扭捏捏，尚欲勾人魂魄，攝人精髓，則名為狐。到三十後，嗓子啞了，鬍鬚出了，便唱不成戲，無可奈何，自己反裝出那市井模樣來，買些孩子，教了一年半載，便叫他出去賺錢。生得好的，賺得錢多，就當他老子一般看待。若生得平常的，不會哄人，不會賺錢，就朝哼暮口度。一日不陪酒就罵，兩日不陪酒就打。及至出師時，開口要三千五千弔，錢到了手，打發出門，仍是一個光身，連舊衣裳都不給一件。若沒有老婆，晚間還要徒弟伴宿。此等兇惡棍徒，比猛虎還要勝幾分，則比為虎。
到時運退了，只好在班子裡，打旗兒去雜腳，那時只得比做狗了。此是做師傅的刻板面目。琴言自去年臘月到京，迄今四個月，徐子雲已去白金數千，不為不多，是以長慶待琴言分外好。
若使琴言病了一年半載，只怕也要變了心，此是旁人疑議，且按下不題。
再說魏聘才進了華公府，滿擬錦上添花，立時可以發跡，那曉得進去了一月，賓主尚未見面。幾次請見，只以有事辭之，所往來交接者，皆不三不四的人。又有那一班豪奴，架子很大，見了居然長揖，公然上坐，所說的話，無非懵懵懂懂。少年的意氣揚揚，強作解事；老年的倚老賣老，一味藏奸。聘才極意要好，一概應酬，就華府內一隻犬，也不敢得罪，意思間要巴結些好處來，誰知賠累已多。府中那些朋友、門客及家人們算起來，就有幾百人，那一天沒有些事。應酬慣了，是不能揀佛燒香的，遇些喜慶事，就要派分子。間或三朋四友，聚在一處，便生出事來，或是撇蘭吃飯，或是聚賭放頭。還有那些三小子們，以及車夫、馬夫、廚子等類，時常來打個抽豐，一不應酬，就有人說起閒話來。雖止一月之間，府裡這些閒雜人，倒也混熟了，也有與聘才合式的，也有不對的。合式的是顧月卿、張笑梅諸人；不對的是閻簡安、王卿雲諸人。聘才也只好各人安分，合式的便往來密些，不對的便疏遠些。惟鬱鬱不樂者，尚未見過華公子一面。而且一無所事，不過天天與眾人廝混，正是「兩餐老米飯，一枕黑甜鄉」而已。
這一日出門閒走，出得城來，正覺得車如流水馬如龍，比城裡熱鬧了好些。順著路，走到鳴珂坊梅宅來，進去見子玉，臥病未愈，精神懶散。子玉問起聘才光景，聘才只得說好，隨口撒了幾句謊。又去見了顏夫人，道了謝，即出來找李元茂，只見鎖了房門，遂復辭了子玉出門，冷冷清清，到何處去呢？
信步走到伏虎橋邊，想起張仲雨住在吳宅，即向門房中一問，卻好在家，即請進去坐了。仲雨問了些寒溫，吃了一杯茶，略坐了一坐。仲雨道：「老弟如今進城，是難得出城的，何不找個地方坐坐，聽齣戲解個悶兒。」聘才道：「很好。這兩天實也勞乏了，要去就去。」於是二人同了出來，到了戲園揀個地方坐下。看了兩三齣戲，也有些相公陪著說話。遠遠望見李元茂同著孫嗣徽，在對面樓下。聘才過去，講了幾句話，又過來。
仲雨道：「這兩個郎舅至親，天生一對廢物，照應他做什麼？」是日，這幾齣戲，覺得陳腐欠新，仲雨坐不住，說道：「去罷！」算給了坐兒錢，與出聘才同上了酒樓，小酌敘談。仲雨見聘才似乎興致不佳，不像從前光景，因問道：「聽見老弟進了華公府，那裡局面寬大，且華公子是愛交接的，近來光景自然大有起色了。」聘才道：「仁兄不問，弟亦不便說起。始而富三爺講起華公子有孟嘗之名，門下食客數百人。弟進去了，門客卻不少，都是些勢利透頂人，不是擠那個，就是殺這個。弟進去一月有餘，華公子只是冷冷的，若長如此光景，弟倒錯了主意了。」仲雨道：「你見過華公子幾次？」聘才道：「見倒見過幾次，不過隨便寒暄幾句，就走開了。他的舊人本多，新進去的自然擠不上去。」仲雨默然良久，歎口氣道：「如今世界，自己要講骨氣，只好閉門家裡坐。你要富貴場中走動，重新要操演言談手腳，亦是不容易的。上等人有兩個，我們是學不來，一個是前賢陳眉公，一個就是做那《十種曲》的李笠翁。這兩個人學問是數一數二的，命運不佳，不能做個顯宦與國家辦些大事，故做起高人隱士來，遂把平生之學問，奔走勢利之門。又靠著幾筆書畫，幾首詩文，哄得王侯動色，朝市奔趨，那些大老官還要奉承他。若得罪了，到處就可以殺他，自然有拿得穩的本領，你道可怕不可怕？這上等的如今是沒有了。且說第二等人，也就一時選不出來，有十樣要訣。」
聘才道：「那十樣呢？」仲雨道：「一團和氣，二等才情，三斤酒量，四季衣服，五聲音律，六品官銜，七言詩句，八面張羅，九流通透，十分應酬。」聘才搖搖頭道：「要這許多？」仲雨道：「底下每句還要加個不字呢！一團和氣要不變，二等才情要不露，三斤酒量要不醉，四季衣服要不當，五聲音律要不錯，六品官銜要不做，七言詩句要不荒，八面張羅要不斷，九流通透要不短，十分應酬要不俗。」聘才道：「這等說，做人就難了。兄弟是一字都沒有的，如何學的全？」仲雨道：「那倒也不在乎此，只要有幾件也就可以應酬了。且各人有各人的時運，不過自己總要有點本事，才教人看得起。」聘才道：「還有那三等呢？」仲雨道：「那三等的也有七字訣：第一是童。」聘才道：「怎麼講？」仲雨笑道：「要考過童生的，自然就念過書，略會斯文些，比那市井的人就強多了。第二是半通，會足恭，巴結內東，奴才拜弟兄，拉門面靠祖宗，鑽頭覓縫打抽風。這就是三等人了。」聘才道：「不要小看這三等人，只怕如今都是些三等呢。」仲雨道：「可不是！依我看來，倒也不是印板的，就有全了十樣本領，也有弄不出好處來；連那七個字沒有的，也會尋出機會來。總之，各人的緣法。從來說』時來風送滕王閣，運退雷轟薦福碑。」我知道這華公子是極好相與的，現有多少人從他府裡走動，弄出多少好處來。我教你個法兒，要他與你相好很不難。這人我也認得，從前他也托過我事情。
我知道他府裡有個林珊枝，是他的親隨。」說到此便豎起大拇指來道：「是個這一分兒的，言聽計從，寸步不離，你先要打通這個關節，這關通了就容易了。還有那個八齡班，也是不離左右的，小孩子們有甚識見，給點小便宜就得了。慢慢兒一言半語吹進他耳朵裡去，今日聽見說魏師爺好，明日又聽見說魏師爺好，就打動他的心了。這教做放線雀兒，幾十丈線放了出去終究收得回來，只不要可惜小本錢。」聘才點點頭道：「承教，隨教！」仲雨又道：「譬如你同華公子交接過了，你看他是什麼脾氣，喜的是什麼樣，惡的是什麼樣，自然是順他意見。
順到九分，總要留一分在後，不好輕易拿出來。譬如馭那劣馬，若要駕馭他，拗他的性子是斷斷不能的，你跟著他跑，跑得足了，他也乏起來，便一勒就轉；譬如一件事，他能想到九分，你要想到十分，這一分便是勒轉劣馬的本事，這就叫收劣馬。
還有那種人各樣不好的，他也不與人往來，坐在房裡妻妾自奉，一人安享，也要打探他心上有一樣兩樣喜歡的，就把這樣去迎合他，獻點小忠小信，沒有一件事求他，他自然就放心了，說某人到有點真心，不是賺他。他上了賺，就憑我怎麼樣了，這叫做釣金蟬。至於為人雖要和氣，也不可一味的膿包，於那些沒相干，不中用的人如閻簡安、王卿雲等輩，倒不要去睬他，渾去應酬他也無用。大門子裡，有那一種在裡頭一句話都不能講的，他卻會懵人。你自己要看得清：可應酬則應酬，不必應酬就不應酬；你應酬那不中用的人，被那要緊人就看輕了。」聘才聽了大笑道：「吾兄真是當今第一個大才，陳平之智，諸葛之謀，也不過如此，能把天下人的性情脾氣，如寫在手掌中，弟當以門生貼來拜老師，庶可傳授心法。」仲雨笑道：「我都與你說了，還拜什麼老師？依著做去包管不錯，將來有了好處，不要忘了老師，就算你門生的良心了。」說罷彼此又笑，不覺就過了半天。仲雨算清了賬同了出來，說道：「老弟，你進城罷。我還有事，不得奉陪。」說罷，拱拱手去了。其時天氣尚早，一路行來，遠遠望見嗣徽、元茂兩人在前轉彎去了。聘才想道：「他們到何處去？」便悄悄的跟了來。到一條小衚衕，只見閒人塞滿，都在人家門口瞧。聘才曾聽得人說，有個東園是婊子聚會之處，便也隨著眾人，站住望將進去。見那一家是茅茨土牆，裡頭有兩間草屋。又見嗣徽、元茂就在他前頭站立。望著兩個婦人，坐在長凳上，約有二十來歲年紀，都腦滿腸肥，油頭粉面，身上倒穿得華麗。只見一個婦人對著嗣徽道：「進來坐坐。」嘻嘻的笑，引得嗣徽、元茂心癢難搔，欲進不進的光景，呆呆的看著出神。又見一個四十多歲的尷尬男人，在地下蹲著，穿件小襖兒，拴繫了腰，掛一個大瓶抽子，足可裝得兩吊錢。又見簾子裡，一個婦人走出來，約二十餘歲年紀，卻生的好看：瓜子臉兒，帶著幾點俏麻點兒，梳個丁字頭，兩鬢惺忪，插了一枝花。身上穿得素淨，腳下拖了一雙尖頭四喜堆絨蝠的高底鞋，也到凳上坐下，與那兩個講話。聽他口音不像北邊，倒像南方人。一身兒堆著俊俏，覺得比眾不同。聽得那一個醜的唱起來，唱道：俊郎君，天天門口眼睜睜，瞧得奴動情，盼得你眼昏。等一等，巫山雲雨霎時成，只要京錢二百文。聘才聽了好笑，又想道：雖然淫詞浪語，倒也說得情真。又聽得這個醜的，真對著嗣徽、元茂唱將起來，聘才再聽道：一個兒臉麻，一個兒眼花，瞎眼雞同著癩蝦蟆。
你愛的是咱，咱愛的是他。莫奢遮，溫柔鄉里，不像老行家。
眾人聽不出什麼來，聘才卻明白是罵他們二人的，幾乎放聲笑起來，只得忍住。再看那個生得好的，卻像是新出來的。原來京裡妓女，要進大局兒的，倒先要在東園、西廠落幾天，見見市面，自然就不知羞恥，老練起來。如行院中不好的打下來，又到此兩處。這個就是高品所說，從廣西新來的白菊花了。聘才看他舉止，尚有幾分羞澀。旁邊一個小兒，捧上一面琵琶，那人接了，彈了一套《昭君怨》，便惹得門口看的人益發多了。
元茂係近視眼，索性擠進去門裡呆看。聘才見那婦人，一面彈，一面唱道：楊柳枝、楊柳枝，昔年宮裡鬥腰肢。如今棄向道旁種，翠結雙眉怨路岐。畫船何處繫，駿馬向風嘶。盼不到東君二月陌頭來，只做了秋林憔悴西風裡。又見他把弦緊了一緊，和了一和，便高了一調了，再唱道：想當年是鴛與鴦，到今是參與商，果然是露水夫妻不久長。千山萬水來此鄉，離鸞別鳳空相望。歎紅顏薄命少收場，便再抱琵琶也哭斷腸。想情郎，昂昂七尺天神樣。千夫長，百夫防，洞庭南北多名望，恩爹愛娘，溫柔一晌漓江上。到如今撇下奴瘦嬋娟伶仃孤苦，真做了一枝殘菊傲秋霜。石公壩，追得好心傷；畫眉塘，險把殘軀喪。全湘沅湘，三江九江，只指望趕得上桃根桃葉迎雙槳，誰知道楚尾吳頭天樣長，又過那金陵王氣未全降，瓜州燈火揚州望，渡河黃，怕見那三閘河流日夜狂，淮、徐、濟、兗無心賞。幸一路平安到帝邦。只不曉那薄倖兒郎在何處藏。我是那剪頭髮尋夫的趙五娘，你休猜做北路邯鄲大道娼。一面彈，一面唱，其聲悽慘，唱得聘才流下淚來，想道：「這人倒是個鍾情人，歷訴生平受盡難苦，不知那個負心人何處去了。」只聽得孫嗣徽道：「阿喲不好了，我身上的東西竟是空空如也，可惡！可惡！」蹬著腳，歎一口氣道：「咳！君子無故，玉不去身，他竟卷而懷之。我以後便如喪不佩起來，看他便能奈我何！」元茂道：「京中這剪綹的實在可恨。我去年拿了家父十兩銀子與魏老聘去看戲，到戲園子門口，絆了一交，即有人攙我起來，還替我拍拍灰。我還當他是個好人，及到後來，銀子也沒有了。後來家君查出來，足足罵了一天。你看這些狗東西害人不害人？」那時聽者無不暗笑。孫嗣徽道：「彼美人兮，君子好逑，你何不疾趨而進之？」元茂笑道：「我不，十目所視的，怎樣進得去？」聘才聽了，失聲一笑。元茂聽得聲音很熟，便瞅著眼睛，四下張望，望見是聘才，便漲紅了臉，與嗣徽擠將出來，與聘才見了。嗣徽道：「魏大哥，我知道你如今是狡兔三窟，竟是鞠躬而入公門了，也不來顧盼顧盼舊日朋友，今日既一見之，我心則喜呢。」聘才道：「勞人草草，本要奉候的。因天晚了，要進城了。」元茂道：「你如今在那華府裡可好？今日還進城麼？」聘才道：「就進城了。」元茂道：「我們也要回去了，同走罷。」於是在路談談講講。聘才道：「你方才聽他們唱的，可聽得出來？」元茂道：「我一字不懂，我倒愛那胖婆娘，對著我盡笑盡勾，我又不敢進去坐坐。」
嗣徽道：「美哉，美哉！價廉而工省。明日我與汝姑一試之，若遲遲吾行，恐為捷足先得，則雖悔莫追矣。只要其樂陶陶，又何論十目所視。」聘才聽他仍是咬文嚼字，滿口胡柴，忍住笑，只好由他罷了。到了路口，各人分路。聘才聽得後面車聲磷磷，直走過去，聘才連忙讓開，只見坐在車裡的就是方才彈唱的那個媳婦，車沿上坐著一個老婆子，跑得風快的過去了。
且按下聘才那邊。
要說這白菊花，是廣西梧州府人，生得十分俊俏，嫁了一個姓宋的，是個不長進的人。這菊花善與人交，相識了一個營員姓張的，是湖廣人。兩人在廣西十分相好，誓同偕老，已有數年。去年這個張營員，奉差進京，這白菊花倒是個有情有義的人，於張營員走後，即帶了些盤費，一個小丫頭，趕將上來。
不知怎樣錯了路，一直出了廣西省，到了湖南，尚趕不著，又不知相去多遠，且盤費已盡，舉目無親，進退維谷，在湖南住下。忽得了個謊信，說這張營員在京營作了千總，不得出京。
他就賣了些衣裳作路費，搭了個便船進京。及到京時，那姓張的早已差竣回去，以致菊花流落在此，只得倚門賣笑。
今日來接他的是個開門戶的陶家。這陶媽媽家裡有三個姑娘，內中一個好的名叫玉天仙，是揚州人，生得風騷嬌俏。這兩天接著一個大嫖客，就是廣東那個奚十一。陶媽媽打聽他的家世，知他是海南大家，家有千萬之富，兄弟十人，都作道府大員。老太爺是現任提臺，家裡開著洋行。又訪他是個大冤桶，便想發他一票大財。無奈那幾個姑娘不大懂他的話，兼之奚十大員。老太爺是現任提臺，家裡開著洋行。又訪他是個大冤桶，便想發他一票大財。無奈那幾個姑娘不大懂他的話，兼之奚十一是個鴉片大癮，一天要吃一二兩；這三個姑娘雖會吃幾口白土煙，吃了那黑土煙幾分就醉倒了，且彼此語言，都不甚投機。
因此，奚十一不大喜歡。陶媽媽知道菊花是廣西人，又生得好看，必定勾得住他，所以把他接了過來，認為義女。登時換了嶄新的衣服，與諸姊妹相見，菊花與玉天仙尤為相愛。菊花受盡了狼狽，到此已如出了地獄，心裡還有甚不足，一心就候那奚十一來。
且說這奚十一自到京來，不上半年，銀子已花去數萬，盡填在糞窖裡。有人勸他何不娶個妾。他是遊蕩慣的，見了那良家之女子，甚為厭惡，惟在娼妓隊裡物色，又沒有合意的。一日陶媽媽轉來請他，說他家新到了一個廣西人。奚十一聽見是廣西的便滿心歡喜，叫個小跟班帶了煙具，也不坐車，昂然的步行而去。到了陶家，陶媽媽先出來見了，便極意的脅肩諂笑了一回，然後說道：「你們快請四姑娘出來。」不多一刻，見白菊花裊裊婷婷的，一身香豔，滿面春情，上前見了，說了些話，彼此語音相對。奚十一看他相貌，正是嬌如花，柔如水，甜如蜜，黏如餳，十分大喜，略問了幾句話，便同進了房。便叫小跟班擺好了煙具，開了燈，一面吹，一面談。這奚十一要吃大口煙的，菊花替他燒煙，先從半分一口起，加到三分一口，方才合意。菊花燒煙的本事甚好，燒得不生不熟，奚十一又喜吃麵條煙，將這煙挑了一簽子，在火上四面的一燒，那條煙就掛得有五寸長，放在斗門口，奚十一唦、唦、唦的一口吸盡，還閉了嘴不放一點煙散出來，這是奚十一的生平絕技。菊花也吃了幾口，便睡到奚十一懷裡來，與他上煙。奚十一連吃了七八錢，也夠了，便勃然動起興來，兩人收過了燈，關了門，就作出一回秘戲，描不出蝶戀花，顛倒鴛鴦，諸般妙處。一個猛於下山虎，一個熟似落蒂瓜，直鬧到兩個時辰，方各滿心足意，收拾乾淨了，重複開燈吃煙，便連著喝酒吃飯。
奚十一在那裡一連宿了七八天，每一天也花幾十吊錢，老鴇便欲砍起斧子來：本人身上作衣服，打首飾製鋪墊，是不必說了，還有那些姑娘們，要這樣，要那樣，連老鴇婆、幫閒、撈毛的，沒有一個不打把式。好在奚十一爽快性成，從無吝嗇。
菊花見奚十一這個雄糾糾的相貌，比從前的相好更勝一倍。又知道是個大老爺，在京候選的，便起了從良之念。奚十一本為物色小星而來，見菊花這般美貌，又是個極在行的，便也要買他為妾。倒是那個老鴇不甚願意，菊花方來幾天，且並非他的人，又無身價可勒，只想留他在家多弄些錢，若從良去了，不是白幹了這件買賣麼？便從中調唆，在菊花面前說奚十一是個沒良心的人，他家裡有幾十房小星。聽他二爺們說，娶到了家就丟在腦後，又去貪戀別處，是個戀新棄舊的人。這樣人斷不可嫁他，你別錯了主意。在奚十一面前，只說這菊花有本夫在此，不肯賣他的。又說菊花性子不好，吃慣了這碗飯，不能務正的，老爺要娶姨奶奶，我包管與你揀一個十全的人，不必要他。無奈他們兩人結得火熱的交情，雖有老鴇打破，彼此全然不信。菊花將他的始末根由細細告知奚十一，說這老鴇是接他過來，單為著應酬你的。我如今要從良，與他們毫不相干，只要賞他幾兩銀子就是了。奚十一定了主意，即叫了官媒婆作媒，賞了陶老鴇五十金，將菊花領回，買了丫頭，僱了老媽子，菊花便嫁了奚十一，作了姨奶奶，從此倒入了正路。不知後事如何，且聽下回分解。
Here is the translation into English:
It is said that Qin Yan, being ill and weak, closed his doors to visitors, only a few close classmates came to comfort him from time to time. Baozhu and Sulan spoke of Ziyu’s recent condition and his inability to visit often. They asked us to relay his message to take great care, which made Qin Yan even more sorrowful. Since falling ill, he had stopped visiting places and had been absent from Yi Garden for a long time. His teacher, Qing, who depended on him as a money tree, saw fewer visitors due to his prolonged illness, which diminished their enthusiasm.
Generally, the master of a theater troupe originates from a leading role in the plays, and within thirty years undergoes four transformations.
These four transformations are as follows: In youth, one is admired for charming and graceful appearance, like carving open the chaos, when positive energies meet, resembling a rabbit. After reaching twenty, as one matures, the appearance may become less refined, yet still striving to flaunt beauty with fine clothes and headwear. When performing, unabashedly flaunting shamelessly and seductively, capturing souls and essence, then one is likened to a fox. By thirty, the voice fades, and facial hair grows, rendering one unable to perform; left with no choice but to adapt to the ways of the market, buying some children, training them for a year and a half, and then sending them out to make money. Those who are talented and earn more are treated like one’s own father. If they are ordinary, not charming or profitable, they are barely managed with grudging support. If they don’t entertain with drinks, they face scolding, and without entertainment for two days, they face beating. When they graduate, they ask for a large sum, but once paid, they are sent away penniless, not even given old clothes. If they have no wife, the master might even require the disciple to accompany him at night. Such brutal masters are more ferocious than wild tigers, hence compared to tigers.
When their fortunes wane, they can only serve in the troupe in menial roles, then they are likened to dogs. This is the rigid face of a master. Qin Yan, since arriving in the capital last December to now, four months later, Xu Ziyun has already spent thousands of taels of silver on him, not a small sum, therefore Qing treats Qin Yan exceptionally well.
If Qin Yan were ill for a year and a half, he might also change his heart, which is a doubt others might have but let us not discuss it now.
Further speaking of Wei Pin, who had recently entered the household of Lord Hua, intending to add glory to his career, thought he could rise immediately, only to find a month later that he had not yet met his host. Several requests to meet were declined due to other engagements, and those he came in contact with were dubious characters. With a group of arrogant servants taking high seats, the conversations were vague and unclear. The young were overly assertive, and the elderly relied on their age to hide their scheming. Pin tried to get along with everyone, not daring to offend even a dog within the household, hoping to curry some favor, but only found himself deeper in debt. There were hundreds of friends, clients, and household staff to deal with daily. Accustomed to social obligations, he could not choose peaceful pursuits, and during festive occasions, he had to contribute. Occasionally, gatherings with friends led to troubles, such as leaving meals unpaid or engaging in gambling. There were also lower servants like drivers, grooms, and cooks who would often come seeking favors. If Pin did not entertain them, idle gossip would start. Even within a month, he had become familiar with the numerous trivial characters in the house, some aligning with him and others not. Those in accord were like Gu Yueqing and Zhang Xiaomei, while those who were not included Yan Jian’an and Wang Qingyun. Pin could only keep to his own, getting closer to those he agreed with and distancing from others. Yet, he was not happy, having not met Lord Hua even once, and without any real duties, he simply mingled daily, living a mundane life.
One day, stepping out for a walk, he felt the city’s liveliness as cars flowed like water and horses like dragons, more bustling than inside the city. Following the road, he visited the Mei residence at Mingke Square, where he saw Ziyu, still unwell and listless. Ziyu asked about Pin’s situation, and Pin had to lie, saying all was well. He then visited Lady Yan to express his thanks before leaving to find Li Yuanmao, only to find the door locked, and thus he bid Ziyu farewell and left, feeling lost.
Wandering aimlessly to Fuhu Bridge, he remembered Zhang Zhongyu lived in the Wu residence and decided to
visit. Fortunately, Zhang was home, and after a brief exchange and some tea, Zhang suggested, “Young brother, since you rarely come to the city, why not find a place to relax and enjoy a play to ease your mind.” Pin agreed, saying, “That sounds good. These days have indeed been tiring, let’s go.” They went together to the theater, picked a spot, and enjoyed a few plays while chatting with some gentlemen. From afar, Pin saw Li Yuanmao with Sun Sihui below the opposite balcony. Pin went over, exchanged a few words, and returned.
Zhang remarked, “These two, closely related by marriage, are born useless; why bother with them?” That day, the plays seemed stale and uninteresting, and Zhang, unable to sit still, suggested leaving. After paying their seats, they went to a restaurant for a drink and talked. Zhang noticed Pin seemed less enthusiastic than before, and asked, “I heard you’ve entered Lord Hua’s household, a place of great influence and with a sociable young lord, your prospects must have greatly improved recently.” Pin replied, “Brother, you shouldn’t ask, and I’d rather not speak of it. Initially, Rich Lord San spoke highly of Lord Hua, saying he was like Mengchang with hundreds of followers. I went there, and indeed, there were many clients, all quite mercenary, either pushing one or eliminating another. I’ve been there over a month now, and Lord Hua has been distant. If things continue this way, I might have made the wrong choice.” Zhang asked, “Have you seen Lord Hua often?” Pin answered, “I’ve seen him a few times, just exchanged brief pleasantries, and then he walks away. He has many old associates, and newcomers naturally can’t get close.” Zhang was silent for a long time before sighing and saying, “In today’s world, if you want to maintain your integrity, you might as well stay home. If you want to navigate the world of wealth and power, you have to constantly practice your speech and actions, which is not easy. The top people, like the ancient sage Chen Meigong and playwright Li Liweng, despite their significant learning, had unfortunate destinies and couldn’t perform great services for the state, thus they became high-minded hermits, relying on a few paintings and poems to charm the powerful, who would rush to their support. If offended, they could be killed anywhere; they indeed had formidable skills. Are they not fearsome? Such top-tier people are no longer around. As for the second tier, it’s also hard to choose, with ten key secrets.”
Pin asked, “What are those ten?” Zhang listed, “A harmonious temperament, second-rate talents, three jin of alcohol tolerance, clothes for all seasons, a precise sense of musical pitch, a sixth-grade official rank, seven-character poems, connections everywhere, knowledge of all sorts, and perfect sociability.” Pin shook his head, “That’s a lot, isn’t it?” Zhang added, “And each quality should be accompanied by a ‘not’: a harmonious temperament should not change, second-rate talents should not be revealed, three jin of alcohol should not intoxicate, clothes should not be seasonal, musical pitch should not be incorrect, a sixth-grade rank should not be pursued, seven-character poems should not be neglected, connections should not be broken, knowledge should not be shallow, and sociability should not be vulgar.” Pin said, “It’s hard to be a person then. I don’t have a single one of those qualities, how can I learn them all?” Zhang reassured, “That’s not so important; having a few can still make do. Everyone has their own fortune, but you still need some skills to be respected.” Pin asked, “What about the third tier?” Zhang explained, “The third tier also has a seven-word secret: the first is being a child.” Pin asked, “What do you mean?” Zhang smiled, “If you’ve passed the imperial examinations as a child, you’ve naturally studied and know some literature, which already makes you better than the common folk. The second is semi-knowledgeable, polite enough to flatter your boss, servile enough to call a servant ‘brother,’ relying on appearances and ancestral prestige, finding loopholes to exploit. That’s the third tier.” Pin commented, “Don’t underestimate these third-tier people; I’m afraid many are like that nowadays.” Zhang agreed, “Exactly! From what I see, even if someone had all ten skills, they might still not manage to reap benefits; even those without the seven words can find opportunities. In the end, it’s all about fate. As the saying goes, ‘When the time comes, the wind sends you to Tengwang Pavilion; when fortune declines, thunder strikes the recommended fortune stele.’ I know this Lord Hua is very approachable, with many
people coming and going from his household, gaining many benefits. I’ll teach you a way to get along well with him; it’s not difficult. I know him; he has even asked me for favors before.”
“I know that there’s a Lin Shanzhi in his household, who is his close attendant,” he said, raising his thumb in approval. “He’s someone very close, obeys every word, and never leaves his side. You need to win over this person first. Once he’s on your side, everything will be easier. Then there’s that eight-year-old boy, who also never leaves his side. Kids don’t have much discernment; just give him a little treat and he’ll be yours. Slowly, you can whisper things in his ear—today he hears good things about you, tomorrow he hears more, and eventually, you’ll win his heart. This is called ‘letting out the kite string’—you let out the string for dozens of yards, but you’ll eventually reel it back in, just don’t mind the small initial costs.” Pincai nodded and said, “I understand and will follow your advice!”
Zhongyu continued, “For instance, when you make contact with Mr. Hua, observe his temperament—what he likes and dislikes. Naturally, you should cater to his preferences.
“However, always leave a bit of leeway—if you give everything away too easily, it won’t work. It’s like taming a wild horse: you can’t just fight its nature. Run with it until it’s tired, and then it will yield to you with just a pull of the reins. Similarly, if he can only think nine-tenths of a plan, you need to think through the whole ten. That extra bit is what will allow you to turn the situation in your favor, and that’s called ‘reining in a wild horse.’
“There are also those who don’t socialize much and enjoy their solitude. Find out what they like, and cater to those interests, offering small tokens of loyalty and trust without asking for anything in return. They will then trust you, seeing you as sincere and not trying to deceive them. Once they trust you, you can influence them however you like. This is called ‘fishing for the golden cicada.’ While being friendly, don’t be too lenient. To those irrelevant or useless, like Yan Jian’an or Wang Qingyun, don’t waste your time on them. If someone can’t say a useful word, just ignore them. You must discern for yourself: entertain those worth entertaining, and ignore those who aren’t. If you waste time on useless people, the important ones will think less of you.”
Pincai laughed and said, “My brother, you truly are a genius of our time. Your wisdom rivals that of Chen Ping and Zhuge Liang. You understand human nature as if you have it written on your palm. I should become your disciple and learn your secrets.” Zhongyu smiled and said, “I’ve already told you everything, so why talk of being a disciple? Just follow my advice and you’ll succeed. When you reap the benefits, don’t forget about your teacher; that’s how a good disciple shows gratitude.” They laughed together, and before they knew it, half a day had passed. Zhongyu settled the bill and said, “Brother, you should head into the city. I have other matters to attend to.” He then clasped his hands in farewell and left.
It was still early, and as Pincai walked, he saw Si Hui and Yuan Mao turning a corner ahead. Pincai wondered where they were going and quietly followed. They came to a small alley, crowded with people looking at a house. Pincai had heard that the East Garden was a place where prostitutes gathered, so he stood among the crowd to look inside. He saw a thatched house with two rooms and noticed Si Hui and Yuan Mao standing in front, staring at two women sitting on a bench. The women, in their twenties, were plump and heavily made up but dressed elegantly. One of the women smiled and invited Si Hui and Yuan Mao in, making them visibly tempted but hesitant.
Pincai also noticed a man in his forties, awkwardly squatting nearby, wearing a short jacket tied at the waist and holding a large bottle that could hold two strings of coins. From behind a curtain, another woman emerged, around twenty years old and quite attractive, with a melon-seed face, a few charming freckles, and a neat hairstyle. She wore simple clothes and delicate, high-soled shoes. She sat on the bench and chatted with the other two women. Her accent was southern rather than northern, and she exuded a unique charm.
One of the plainer women began to sing:
“Handsome young man, gazing at me every day at the gate,
Longing so much, waiting for you till my eyes grow faint.
Wait a while, our love will bloom like a sudden rain,
For just two hundred coins, you’ll find joy again.”
Pincai found it amusing but thought, despite the lewd lyrics, they were quite sincere. The plainer woman then sang directly to Si Hui and Yuan Mao:
“One has a pockmarked face, the other’s eyes are dim,
A blind rooster with a toad, what a pair so grim.
You love me, I love him, don’t pretend otherwise,
This love nest of tenderness is no place for wise guys.”
The crowd didn’t understand, but Pincai knew she was mocking them and almost burst out laughing. The attractive woman, who seemed new, looked a bit shy. In Beijing, new prostitutes often spent time in places like the East Garden to become more seasoned. This one was apparently the newly arrived Bai Juhua from Guangxi. Pincai noticed her shyness and charm. A young boy brought her a pipa, which she played, drawing more onlookers.
Yuan Mao, who was nearsighted, squeezed into the door to get a closer look. The woman played and sang a sad song, moving Pincai to tears:
“Willow branches, willow branches, once we competed in the palace,
Now planted by the roadside, adorned with sorrow.
Where will the painted boat anchor, as the noble steed whinnies in the wind?
Waiting in vain for the spring lord’s return, only to wither in autumn’s chill.
When I think of our love, once like mandarin ducks,
Now separated, longing from afar,
Sighing over my ill fate, even as I play the pipa, I weep.”
Si Hui exclaimed, “Oh no, my belongings are all gone! Damn it!” Stomping his foot, he sighed, “A gentleman should always have his jade. How could someone steal it from me? I’ll never be without my pendant again. Let’s see what they can do to me now!” Yuan Mao said, “These Beijing pickpockets are really hateful. Last year, I lost ten taels of silver that my father gave me to watch a play with Mr. Wei. I tripped near the theater, and someone helped me up and patted the dust off. I thought he was kind, but later realized the silver was gone. My father found out and scolded me for a whole day. Aren’t these scoundrels awful?” The crowd secretly laughed.
Si Hui said, “Such a beauty! Why don’t you go to her quickly?” Yuan Mao laughed, “I can’t! With so many eyes watching, how can I?”
Pincai, hearing this, laughed out loud. Yuan Mao, recognizing the voice, looked around and saw Pincai, blushing as he and Si Hui came over to greet him. Si Hui said, “Brother Wei, I know you’re busy with your official duties now and have no time for old friends. But meeting you today makes me very happy.” Pincai replied, “I’ve been busy, otherwise I would have visited. But it’s getting late, and I need to head into the city.” Yuan Mao said, “Are you still working at the Hua residence? Are you going into the city now?” Pincai replied, “Yes, I’m heading there now.” Yuan Mao said, “We’re also going back. Let’s go together.”
As they walked and talked, Pincai asked, “Did you understand the song they sang earlier?” Yuan Mao said, “Not a word, but I liked that chubby woman. She kept smiling and teasing me, but I didn’t dare go in and sit with her.”
Sihui said, “Wonderful, wonderful! It’s cheap and saves effort. Tomorrow, let’s try it with your aunt. If we delay, I fear the quick-footed will get ahead of us, and we will regret missing it. As long as it brings joy, who cares about the scrutiny of ten eyes?” Pincai, hearing him still speaking in such flowery and nonsensical language, held back his laughter and let him be. At the crossroads, they parted ways. Pincai heard the sound of a carriage behind him and quickly stepped aside. He saw that the woman in the carriage was the same one who had been singing and playing earlier, with an old woman sitting by the carriage’s edge, swiftly passing by.
Let’s leave Pincai for now.
Now, about Bai Juhua. She was from Wuzhou, Guangxi, and was very beautiful. She married a man named Song, who was a good-for-nothing. Juhua was good at socializing and became close to a soldier named Zhang, who was from Huguang. They were very affectionate in Guangxi and swore to grow old together, having been together for several years. Last year, Zhang was ordered to go to the capital, and Juhua, being loyal and devoted, took some travel money and a maid to follow him.
However, she lost her way, ending up in Hunan without catching up to him. With no money and no acquaintances, she was stuck. She then received false news that Zhang had become a commander in the capital and couldn’t leave. She sold some clothes for travel expenses and took a convenient boat to the capital. But by the time she arrived, Zhang had already returned, leaving Juhua stranded and forced to work as a courtesan.
Today, a household called the Tao family came to pick her up. The Tao family had three daughters, the most charming one named Yu Tianxian, from Yangzhou, known for her coquettish beauty. Recently, they had entertained a wealthy client, Xi Shiyi from Guangdong. Tao’s mother, upon learning that Xi was from a rich and influential family in Hainan, aimed to make a fortune from him. However, the daughters couldn’t understand his dialect well, and Xi had a strong opium addiction, requiring one to two taels daily. The girls, though accustomed to some opium, were overwhelmed by his amount and the language barrier, making Xi dissatisfied.
Tao’s mother, knowing Juhua was from Guangxi and beautiful, believed she could attract Xi, thus she brought Juhua in, introducing her as an adopted daughter. Juhua was given new clothes and met her new sisters, quickly bonding with Yu Tianxian. After much hardship, Juhua felt as if she had left hell, content to wait for Xi Shiyi.
Xi, having spent thousands of taels in the capital within months, was advised to take a concubine. Used to a libertine lifestyle, he disliked respectable women and preferred courtesans. Tao’s mother invited him, mentioning a new girl from Guangxi. Excited, Xi took his opium kit and walked to Tao’s house. Tao’s mother greeted him warmly and called for the fourth daughter. Soon, Juhua appeared, captivating Xi with her beauty and charm. They conversed happily, and Xi, delighted by her looks and skills, took her to his room, where she skillfully prepared his opium. Impressed by her expertise, he indulged deeply, and they spent the night together intimately.
Xi stayed for several days, spending lavishly, making Tao’s mother eager to exploit him further. Despite the expense, Xi was generous. Juhua, seeing Xi’s commanding presence and learning of his official status, considered becoming his concubine. Xi, taken by her beauty and skills, decided to marry her. However, Tao’s mother, wanting to keep Juhua for more profit, discouraged both, claiming Xi was unfaithful and that Juhua had a husband. Despite this, their bond remained strong. Juhua confided her past to Xi, and they arranged for an official matchmaker, rewarding Tao’s mother with fifty taels. Juhua became Xi’s concubine, turning her life around. What happens next will be revealed in the following chapters.