話說聘才從長慶處回來，聽其口風狡猾，似要萬金身價。
欲想個法子收拾他，叫他總不安神，自然就進府來。聘才沒有別法，找了張仲雨一次，也沒有見著。打算仍叫趕車的及三小等去鬧，但要耽擱幾天才好，不然恐被他們看出來。華公子是一時高興，況且他的聲色，享用不盡，自然也不專於一人身上。
這回書卻要另敘一人。前回書中是耳聞其事，今日必須親見其人。你道是誰？就是那奚十一。在長蘆鹽務裡躲了一月，恰值來了一幫洋船，他家是個洋商，又舊有首尾，便匯了兩萬銀子，又搭湊了五千銀子的洋貨，就重新闊起來。況木桶已壞，事情也就冷了。即便回京，仍舊一味的混鬧。
這奚十一既是個大家子弟，難道就沒有個名氏？他的官名叫做奚正紳，那些人將十一叫慣了。嶺南人的口頭話，十一兩字是個土字，因又叫他奚老土。此人初進京來，尚有一口廣東話，不甚清楚，此刻漸漸說起官話來了。他卻與兩個人往來，且係相好，一個是張仲雨，一個是潘其觀。張仲雨是慣向熱鬧場中走動，帳局子裡逢迎，看見奚十一這樣浪花浪費，打聽得他家的底子，便已結交得很熟。及奚十一銀子用完，要拉賬的時節，仲雨即向潘三銀號內，替他借了一萬，本是九扣，仲雨又扣了一千上腰，奚十一實得八千，但要用時，只得依了。如今有了銀子，就先還了這票借項，到京來一無所事，只與仲雨、潘三天天吃酒看戲。這三個人本是一流的，所以愈交愈密。況潘三也是愛坐車的，講到旱道上滋味，奚十一便當他是個知心朋友。試將奚、潘二人比較起來，還是潘三好些，雖然生得可厭，但其賦性疲軟，一來膽小，二來老婆利害，三來是個財主，防人訛他，所以心雖極淫，膽卻極小，凡事不敢任性，此還算他的好處。若那奚十一，仗恃有財有勢，竟是無法無天，人家起他個混名，叫做煙燻太歲，又有許多幫閒助惡的人，自然無所忌憚。且心上存著一個主意：在京耽擱不過一年半載，選到了，就要出京，不鬧個淋漓盡致，也叫人看不起，不像個公子官兒。近來因等選，倒先請了一個刑錢朋友，是王通政薦的，每年修金一千二百兩，已請到寓裡同住，且先做起篾片來。你道此人是誰？就是那位坐糞車的姬先生，見奚十一到班不遠，且是個直隸州，若得個美缺，一二年就可發財；又知他是個大手筆，不過糊塗公子，官將來怕不是替我做的，便去求孫亮功轉托王文輝，竟是一說就妥。真是物以類聚，又是個愛淘毛廁的，臭味相投。進門住了幾天，看出東家脾氣，便要巴結，已將巴英官送他用了幾回，奚十一心上極為暢快。那巴英官伺候過大老爺，在師爺面前，越發驕縱起來。況又得了幾件新衣，裱糊好了，覺得更加光彩。姬亮軒每到情急求他，竟是勉強應酬，不是那從前服貼光景。
閒話休煩。一日張仲雨在奚十一寓所吃早飯，賓主三人叫了兩個相公。仲雨是個貪財不貪色的，這些相公面上都是假應酬，不在裡頭講究，而奚、姬兩位，則捨此別無所好，奚十一更是下作，一飯之間，也要進去兩次。從前還只一個，如今又添了巴英官，更比春蘭巴結的好。巴英官肌膚雖黑，卻光亮滑澤，得個油字訣，所以愛的人最多，姬亮軒醉後也曾對人講過。
是日飲酒之間，奚十一叫春蘭進去了一回，出來坐了一坐；又叫巴英官進去了。仲雨不知其故，只道有事，便與亮軒講些閒話。這兩個相公，一個是蓉官，一個是春林，皆是奚十一常叫的。蓉官對著春林做眼色，春林笑了一笑。亮軒也做眉做眼的，仲雨偶然看見，卻不曉得什麼，也不便問。蓉官忽問仲雨道：「你能有個相好姓魏的，他初到京時，我就認識他，卻不見得怎樣。前日我在富三爺家見他，體面得了不得，大鞍子熱車，跟班亦騎上馬。他如今做了什麼官了？」仲雨道：「尚未得官，在華公府裡當師爺，發了財，自然就闊了。」亮軒道：「我聽得人說，華公府富貴無比，除了皇帝就算他家，是真的麼？」
仲雨笑道：「這也是外頭的議論。若說華府裡，田地甚多，我聽得有四十幾個莊頭，一年論租，就抵得一府分的錢漕，自然也算個極豪富的人家了。」亮軒點點頭：「我們東家也常提起，說華公子是他的世叔，華公爺是我老東家提臺老大人的老師。有這麼一個好世交，我們東家竟不拉攏。小弟是常勸他去走走。東家說，這是從前在軍營保舉的老師，那時華公子還小，說起來也未必知道，所以不肯去。就是現在那位徐中堂，做兩廣總督的，也是老師在軍營同拜的，如今只有二少爺在京裡。我前日在街上看見他，坐著輛飛沿後擋車，有七八匹馬跟著，相貌很體面，我看他將來也要做督撫的。我們東家也是不肯去，不知道什麼脾氣。」仲雨笑道：「徐二爺原是個頂闊的闊人，他與華公子真是一對。前日我為你東家，在他面前求了多少情，出了多少力，他還不曉得，我也沒告訴他。論理，你東家應該重重謝我呢。」亮軒忙問何事？仲雨笑道：「久後便知，此事也不必說了。」只見奚十一出來，趿著雙細草網涼鞋，穿條三缸青香雲紗褲，披著件野雞葛汗衫，背後巴英官拿著柄黑漆描金鬼子扇，笑嘻嘻一輕一重的亂撲出來。亮軒出席相迎，仲雨也照應了。奚十一坐下，仲雨道：「你今日有什麼事這麼忙？」
奚十一笑了笑，方說道：「有點小事都清理了。」便道：「我方才失陪你們，乾幾杯罷。」仲雨道：「喝得多了。」奚十一道：「好話，快再乾兩杯，我們豁幾拳罷。」仲雨道：「也好。」奚十一就與仲雨、亮軒、蓉官、春林豁了十拳，起初還叫得清，後來便叫出怪聲。廣東人豁拳是最難聽的，像叫些殺狗殺鴨的字音。
豁完了拳，講些閒話，仲雨忽然問奚十一道：「如今有個頂好的相公叫琴言，在秋水堂住，他的師傅叫長慶，你曾見過麼？」奚十一道：「沒曾見，聽是聽得說過，是好的。」仲雨正要話時，蓉官道：「好什麼？只得兩三齣戲。你叫他陪酒，終席不說話。要他斟鍾酒，是沒有的事。」春林道：「好沉架子，到他家去看他，倒是從不會客的。就是從前的王吉慶、李春芳，如今紅字號的袁寶珠、蘇蕙芳，也沒有這麼大架子。要他中意的，才陪著坐一坐；不中意的，簡直的不理，賞他東西謝也不謝一聲，也沒有見他給人請安。」奚十一道：「這麼樣的相公，沒有遇見我。若遇見我時，他要這樣起來，我就罵這婊子養的，他能咬掉我的卵子？」仲雨冷笑道：「別說你這奚老土，就是你那兩位老世叔，是有名的大公子，尚且不能難為他，倒常受他的氣。若教你去，准還不能進他的屋，休要想見他。」亮軒道：「那裡有這話？我不信。豈有東家這樣闊人，還不來巴結，難道他不喜歡銀錢的？」仲雨道：「別人你拿錢，可以熏他；這小東西，錢倒熏不動的。」奚十一道：「豈有此理，你不要盡講海話。你看我去，包管他必出來，還待得我好。」
蓉官道：「未必。或者出來見一見，就算高情了。要待你好斷不能。我見他待人沒有好過，就是見那幾位大人們，也是冷冷的。倒是他兩個師弟天福、天壽會應酬，相貌又不好，人也不喜歡他。他師傅曹長慶，也是個古怪脾氣，就是一門只愛錢，錢到了手，又不睬人了。」奚十一聽了這些話，心上著實不信，對仲雨道：「你停一停，同我去看看，到底怎樣？」仲雨道：「別處都去，他那裡我不去，況前日我還罵了他。」眾人吃了飯，又坐了一回，仲雨告辭去了。兩個相公又鬧了好一回方去。
奚十一過了夜，明日早飯後，想起仲雨所說的琴言這麼利害，到底不信，必要去試試。過癮之後，同了姬亮軒，帶了春蘭、巴英官，自己換了件新紗衫子，坐了車，叫春蘭、巴英官同跨了車沿，亮軒另僱一個車，到秋水堂來。
這邊琴言正在悲悲楚楚的時候，前日長慶見聘才生氣走了，雖托葉茂林為他婉言，總不見茂林回信，心上有些狐疑。又想起五月間，有兩個人鬧來，送了四吊錢，陪了多少禮方去，聽得傳說是華公府的車夫。昨日聽得聘才口風利害，似乎必要來的，便十分擔著擔子，進來與琴言商量。琴言自那日從怡園回後，直到今日總是啼哭，自己也不曉得為著什麼，一味的悲苦，倒像有什麼大事的，心中七上八下：一來為華公子賞識了他，將來必叫他進府唱戲，那時府裡多少人，怎生應酬得來；二來每逢熱鬧之場獨獨不見庾香，故此越想越覺傷心，倒不料得聘才即來，說要買他。
長慶進來，見了琴言啼哭，不知為著何事，便安慰他兩句，就說起聘才來說的話，去的光景，要尋事生端，叫你唱不成戲的意思，我不知你心內如何。若進去了，快活倒是快活的，不過是一世奴才，永作華府家人了。琴言聽了，不由得放聲大哭起來。長慶沒了主意，又安慰他。琴言帶哭說道：「師傅，多承你能收了我做徒弟，教養了半年，我心上自然感恩，所以忍耐，又活了兩個月。如今師傅既不要我，我也不到別處去，省得師傅為難。總之我沒有了，師傅也就安穩了。」說了又哭，長慶也連連的歎氣道：「不是這麼講，我原捨不得你去，不過與你商量，恐怕逆了他們的意，鬧些是非出來，大家受苦。他如今又不是白要你進去，他許下我幾千銀子。我是算不來的，覺得這個買賣有些折本，所以主意不定。若是進去，在你倒是極好的日子，只是苦了我了。」琴言道：「師傅要銀子也還容易，我在這裡一年，也替師傅掙了好些錢。設使我進去了，也就歇了，難道還能弄些錢出來？就是師傅少錢，也不必生這個念頭，還是不賣我的好，還能夠養得師傅三年兩載。」長慶道：「我主意原和你一樣，就是其中有好些難處。你如今倒別顧我，只要你自己想，自己定了主意才好，也不必哭了。我是有事要出門，偏偏天福、天壽又進戲園去了。你若氣悶，不如去請素蘭來與你頑頑，他今日不下園子，你們是講得來的。」一面說，就走出來了，叫人去請素蘭即便過來。
剛走到裡面，這邊奚十一已到門，春蘭、英官下來，進去問了，回說不在家。奚十一聽了，先有一分怒氣，自己也就下來，剛剛走進了門，姬亮軒尚在門外，只見一人笑嘻嘻的上前說道：「老爺是找那一個的？若是找相公們的，沒有一個在屋裡。」說罷，便迎面站住，也不說個請字。奚十一見了就有了三分氣。正要開口，倒是春蘭先說道：「呀！這是奚大老爺，無論相公在家不在家，總請大老爺進去，怎麼門口就擋住了？」
那人才退了兩步，說：「請大老爺進屋子裡喝茶。」即開了二門，奚十一同亮軒進內，走過了庭心，上了客廳，卻是三間：
東邊隔去了一間，算客房。對面兩間，一邊是門房，一邊空著。
當下兩人就進去房內坐了。英官、春蘭即在外間坐下。那人送了兩鍾茶上來，有些認得春蘭，問了來歷，進去告知長慶。 長慶道：「已經回說不在家，也就不必應酬他了。」又想道：「這姓奚的，雖聽得他是個冤大頭，但是個沒味的人，多少相公上了他的當，沒處伸冤，琴言是斷乎講不來的。不然叫天福、天壽回來，或者有些甜頭，也未可知。一面即打發人到戲園去叫，一面自己穿了衣裳、鞋襪出來，款待奚十一。
且說陸素蘭來，見了琴言問道：「何事？」只見琴言又是嬌啼滿面，歪倒在炕上。素蘭安慰道：「你又怎麼，你師傅請我來有何話說？」琴言道：「我今番真要死了，不比從前還可捱得下去。」素蘭忙問何事，琴言就把長慶的話述了一遍。素蘭也覺吃驚，發怔了半天，方問道：「你師傅的意思怎樣？」琴言道：「師傅也沒有主意，似乎兩難，只有我死了，便了結了。」素蘭素：「你開口就說死，事情須細細的商量。況現在並沒有鬧事，又沒人逼你，且緩緩的想個法兒。」琴言道：「有什麼法想？你忘了他們有個魏聘才，肯赦我這條命麼？只有一句，倒是瑤卿害了我了。」素蘭道：「怎麼說是瑤卿害你？」琴言又淌了些淚，不言語，素蘭疑心，連聲的問，琴言歎了口氣道：「若使大年初六那一天，瑤卿去唱了那齣《驚夢》，我便不上臺，也就乾乾淨淨，直到如今沒什麼丟不開的事。偏要我去當災替死，害得人半年以來，心上沒有一刻快樂。前日招此非災枉禍出來，仍係那齣《尋夢》斷送了我，偏與瑤卿合唱。他若寫意些，我也不經意了。若叫他當場壓下我來，又叫我沒臉，所以我不得不用心，偏又惹出這件事來。豈不是始終是瑤卿害的？」素蘭道：「我看華公子這個人，倒也沒有什麼不好，我也沒有見他糟蹋過人。你若心上沒有牽掛的事，倒可以去混幾年，或者倒有些好處，也不可知。就是不能會見庾香的苦了。」琴言道：「就算華公子是個好人，難道魏聘才就不教壞他麼？」
素蘭道：「你們若合了式，魏聘才那種東西，非特不能欺你，且要巴結你呢！但我有一句話，你倒不要怪我：譬如我們這班人與人相好，原是要論心的，但也不好太過。譬如度香、庾香兩人，待你的情分是一樣的。不過，庾香專在你身上，不肯移情於人，所以你就為這上頭，也就專為他，不肯移動一步，是講究專致的工夫了。但是庾香比不得別人，他年紀小，沒有慣常出來，一切都不甚便當。假使他們太太曉得了，還要教訓他，不准他出來；若訪出你們相好，還要歸怨於你，這是一層。你心上只管有庾香，臉上不要教人看破了，人就要怪你，說人是一樣的待他，他是兩樣的待人，他到底與庾香是那一種交情呢，這是兩層。此刻不怪你者，就是度香照常相待。你常常衝撞他，久而久之，要心冷的。你少了度香，也固然於你無損，你的師傅就不好了。此刻有度香供給他，他自然不叫你再找人。如果度香淡泊起來，他必要在你身上找還他那些錢。你想天下人，還有如度香這麼樣待人麼？那時你受盡了氣苦，只怕比進了華公府還苦呢，這是三層。到那個時候，庾香能救你還好，若依舊束手無策，不過將些眼淚給你，將些疾病報你，你兩人仍是隔開，依然空想。叫你一身在外，如驢兒推磨；一心在內，如道士煉丹，你受得受不得？那時只怕真要死了，這是四層。你若進去了，或者仍可出來，也不定的。我聽得華公子，最喜成人之美。若打聽你們兩人，有這樣至死不變的交情，倒因此成全作合起來也不可知。即或不然，你歇幾天，也可告個假出來，到我這裡，去請庾香來會一會，倒可無拘束。你心上若當他與奚十一、潘三一流人，我可以替他出結：斷不至此。依我這麼想，是進去的為妙。」
這一席話，說得徹底澄清，一絲不障，就是個極糊塗的人，也能明白，豈有夙慧如琴言，尚不能領悟，便也點點頭道：「我並不是料不著這些事，我為著情在此時，事尚在日後，故重情而略事，行吾心之所安，以待苦樂之自來。如到極處，則捐生以報，成我之情，一無顧忌。」
素蘭道：「殺身圖報，難道我輩做不出來？但也要看什麼事。你為庾香捐軀，是為什麼？問你，你自己也就說不出；你死了也不算什麼忠臣烈士，節婦義夫。明白人還說你可憐，是一個情癡，糊塗人便說你是個呆子。甚至於胡猜到另有他故。且庾香到你死後，他不能不看破了。他上有父母，要報答的；自己有功名，要奮勵的；且未娶妻生子，後嗣是要接續的，如何肯能為你捐軀？那時他倒想開了，一痛之後，反倒哈哈一笑，說：『罷了！罷了！鏡花水月，到眼皆空。』只是可惜了你，到陰司，仍是孤孤單單，盼不到他，一樣的悲苦，無人可訴，你還能唱《陽告》嗎？再要死時，就難再活了。」
說到此處，自己笑起來，琴言也就笑了，叫道：「蘭哥，蘭哥！我真佩服你，你這些見解從何處得來？」素蘭忽要走動，問道：「後面那小院子，可解手麼？」琴言道：「有毛廁，倒還乾淨。」素蘭就開了房後一扇小門，上了毛房。只聽得叩門之聲，見院子內東基角上有一小後門，叩得亂響，即問道：「是那個？」外面應道：「我是對門王蘭保，叫我送西瓜來與琴言的。」琴言聽了，叫人開了門。那人挑著四個西瓜進來，說道：「蘭保說，這瓜好，送給你的。我從著後門進來，省了半里路。」琴言叫人封了二百錢給他，回去道謝，又問蘭保在家，那人道在家，仍往後門去了。素蘭解手畢，琴言即開了一個瓜，兩人吃時，甚是甜美。正吃得好，忽聽得外面喧嚷之聲，急叫人出去看時，那人去了一回，慌慌張張跑進來，說：「了不得了，那姓奚的鬧得潑反盈天，你師傅被你打倒了。」尚未說完，唬得琴言、素蘭魂不在身。素蘭道：「快關了房門，叫外面拿鎖鎖了。」兩人開了後門，走到王蘭保家去了。
且說長慶出來見了奚十一，請了個安，舉眼看他，相貌魁梧，身材高大，滿臉的煙氣，似有怒容。那一個是個獐頭鼠目，短小身材。又見兩個俊俏跟班，一個認得是春蘭，就請客房坐下。奚十一道：「我姓奚，想來你也知道，不用我說。我聽得你這裡有個琴言，特來會會他，快些叫他出來。」長慶陪笑道：「琴言偏偏不在家，進城去了。」
奚十一聽了，皺皺眉說道：「天天不進城，偏今日進城。沒有的話，快叫出來，為什麼要躲著不見人？躲別人也罷了，難道你不打聽打聽，我是躲得過的麼？你不要發昏。」長慶看勢頭不好，像是有意來的，便一面陪笑支吾，一面打算個搪塞他的法子，只得把大帽子，且壓他一壓，且看怎樣。便滿面堆著笑道：「不瞞大老爺說，我們班裡近日串了幾出新戲，前在怡園演了一個月，才上臺。前日華公子即在徐老爺處見了，就把他們叫了進府，唱了兩天了，還要三天才得唱完。琴言的戲又多，華公子又喜歡他。若是別處，就可以叫回來，惟有這個府裡，小的們是不敢去的。大老爺或與公子有交情，倒可以打發管家拿個貼子，去要了出來。如果合老爺的意，就將他留著使喚都使得。小的久聞大老爺的威名，幾次想請駕過來頑頑，恐怕貴人不踏賤地，又因沒有伺候過，所以不敢冒昧。大老爺倒不要疑心。若要躲著不見人，這又圖什麼呢。不要說大老爺，就是中等人，也沒有不出來的。」
說到此，便近奚十一身邊。將扇子扇著，又笑嘻嘻的道：「請寬寬衫子，如要炕上躺躺，小的倒有老泥煙。」奚十一見他如此小心，氣也消了，發作不出來；且聞留他吃煙，正投其所好，便道：「既然真不在家，也就罷了。不是我自己誇口，大概通京城相公，也沒有一個不曉得我的。你若懂竅，過兩天領他來見見我。就是華公子，我們也是世交，你對他說，是我叫他，他也不好意思不放回的。」說罷，便解開了兩個扣了。長慶替他脫了衫子，折好了，交與春蘭，即請他到吃煙去處，亮軒也隨了進去。
奚十一的法寶是隨身帶的，春蘭便從一個口袋中，一樣一樣的拿出來，擺在炕上。長慶陪了，給他燒了幾口，心上又起了壞主意，陪著笑道：「小的還有兩個徒弟：「一個叫天福，一個叫天壽，今日先叫他們伺候，遲日再叫琴言到府上來，不知大老爺可肯賞臉？」奚十一既吹動了煙，即懶得起來。又想他如此慇懃，便也點點頭，說：「叫來看看。」長慶著人叫了天福、天壽回來，走進炕邊。奚十一舉目看時：一個是圓臉，一個是尖臉，眉目也還清艉潔白。一樣的湖色羅衫，粉底小靴。
請過了安，又見亮軒。長慶叫他們來陪著燒煙，自己抽空走了。
天福就在奚十一對面躺下，天壽坐在炕沿上。亮軒拖張凳子近著炕邊，看他們吃煙，春蘭、巴英官在房門口簾子邊望著。只見天壽爬在奚十一身上，看他手上的翡翠鐲子，天福也斜著身子，隔著燈盤拉了奚十一的手，兩人同看。亮軒也來炕上躺了，兩個相公就在炕沿輪流燒煙。天福挨了奚十一，天壽靠了姬亮軒，兩邊唧唧噥噥的講話。亮軒不顧天熱，就把天壽摟在懷裡，門口巴英官見了咳嗽一聲，托的一口痰，吐進房內。亮軒見了，拿扇子扇了兩扇，說道：「好熱。」奚十一把一條腿壓在天福身上，一口煙，一人半口的吹。
春蘭、巴英官看不入眼，便走出去，各處閒逛。走到裡面，看見些堂客們，知係長慶的家眷。又見東邊一個小門半掩著，二人便推開進去，見靜悄悄的，有株大梅樹。上面三間屋子，東邊的窗心糊的綠紗，裡面下了捲簾。二人一步步的走到窗前，從窗縫裡張時，見牀上坐著兩個絕色的相公：「一個坐著不言語，一個低低說話，春蘭卻都認得。」
只見素蘭忽然回頭，看見窗縫裡有個影子，便問：「是誰？」那兩個噗哧的一笑，跑了出來。素蘭要出來看時，琴言道：「看他做什麼，自然是福、壽這兩個頑皮了。」素蘭終不放心，也因前日嚇怕了，叫人關上門，別叫人進來。春蘭對巴英官道：「他們說琴官不在家，在牀上坐的不是嗎？」巴英官道：「那個呢？」春蘭道：「是素蘭。待我們與老爺說了，好不依他。」於是二人又到房門口，見他們還擠在一處，聽得奚十一道：「琴言到底幾時回來？」天福正要回言，春蘭即說道：「他們哄老爺的，琴言現在裡頭，同著素蘭坐在牀上說話，還說在城裡唱戲呢？」奚十一聽了心如火發，便跳起身就走出來，天福、天壽兩邊拉住，奚十一摔手，兩個都跌倒了，問春蘭道：「你見琴言在那裡？」春蘭道：「在後面，有個小門進去。「奚十一十分大怒，不管好歹，直闖進去。長慶業已聽見，忙忙的從內迎將出來，劈面撞著，即陪笑問道：「大老爺要往那去？裡面都是內眷住的。」奚十一嚷道：「我不看你的婆娘。「說了又要走，長慶已知漏了風，琴言守門的人已經看見，便進內報信去了。這邊長慶如何擋得住？被奚十一一扌叉，踉踉蹌蹌跌倒了。
奚十一走進院子，只見下了窗子，就戳破窗心，望了一望，不見其人，便轉到中間，見房門鎖著，便要鑰匙開門。長慶趕來說道：「這是我的親戚姓伍的住的，鑰匙他帶出去了，房裡也沒有什麼看頭。」奚十一欲要打進去，又似躊躇，春蘭道：「小的親眼看見，還有英官同見的，如今必躲在牀底下了。」長慶道：「青天白日你見了鬼了。」春蘭道：「我倒沒有見鬼，你盡說鬼話。」奚十一怒氣沖天，忍耐不住，兩三腳踢開了門進去，團團一看，春蘭把帳子揭起，牀下也看了，只不見人。
奚十一見房後有重小門開著，走去一望，院子裡有個後門虛掩著，就知從這門出去了，便氣得不可開交，先把琴言牀帳扯下，順手將桌子一翻，零星物件，打得滿地。長應見了心中甚怒，又不敢發作。想要分辯兩句，不防奚十一一把揪住，連刷了五個嘴巴。長慶氣極欲要動手，自己力不能敵，紅著半邊臉，高聲說道：「我的祖太爺，你放手咱們外面講。你受了誰的賺，憑空來吵鬧，我雖吃了戲飯，也沒有見無緣無故的打上門來，我們到街上去講理。」奚十一也不答話，抓住了長慶，走到外面，把他又摔了一交。姬亮軒忙上前，作好作歹，連忙勸開，長慶家裡人也來勸住。奚十一坐了，長慶爬起來，氣得目瞪口呆，只是發喘。亮軒見此光景，忙把衫子與奚十一穿上，死命勸了出去。奚十一一面走，一面罵道：「今日被你們躲過了，明日再來搜你這龜窩，叫我搜著了，就打爛你這娘賣□的。你就拿他藏在你婆娘海裡，我也會掏出來。」亮軒竭力的勸，方把奚十一拉出了門。上了車，還罵了幾聲，亮軒也上了車隨去，那天福、天壽，不知躲到那裡去了。
長慶受了這一場打罵，不敢哼一聲，關上門，即叫人到蘭保處找回琴言，素蘭連蘭保也送了過來。大家說起這奚十一一味凶蠻，真是可怕，只怕其中又有人調唆出來，日後還不肯干休。一個魏聘才冤仇未解，又添出個奚十一來，如何是好？說得長慶更無主意，越發害怕，琴言只是哭泣。蘭保道：「我有一個好主意，只勸得玉儂依了，倒是妥當的。你們明天就送他到華公府，他府裡要賞你身價，你萬不可要，只說恐孩子不懂規矩，有伺候不到之處，叫他權且進來，伺候兩月看看，好不好再說。譬如有事，你原可以去請個假，叫他出來幾天。華公子見他不能出來唱戲，自然必有賞賜，那時你就有財有勢，閒人也不敢上門了。進去後，即或不合使喚，仍舊打發出來，可不原是一樣？你若先要身價，且爭多嫌少惱了他，也是不好的。進去了，死死活活都是他府裡的人了。」話未說完，素蘭先就拍手叫妙，又道：「好主意，曹老闆你聽不聽？」蘭保這一席話，說得個個豁然開朗，就是琴言見了今日的光景，也無可奈何，只得依了。長慶心服口服，自不必說，是晚即移到素蘭家裡。明日奚十一果然又來，各處搜尋不見，猶惡狠狠的而去。
未知後事如何，且聽下回分解。
Here’s the English translation, preserving every detail as per your request:
The story continues with Piancai returning from Changqing’s place. Perceiving a cunning tone in Changqing’s speech, it seemed he valued himself highly, possibly at a price of ten thousand gold pieces.
Piancai wanted to devise a way to unsettle him, making him anxious and naturally, he would come into the mansion. Without any other strategies, Piancai once tried to meet with Zhang Zhongyu but failed. He planned to stir up trouble again by sending the coachman and Sanxiao, but decided to delay it for a few days to avoid arousing suspicion. Young Master Hua was merely enjoying the moment; moreover, with his indulgence in pleasures never fully satisfied, his attentions were not devoted solely to one person.
This segment introduces another character not mentioned before. Previously, we only heard of him, but today we must meet him in person. Who might that be? It is Xi Shi. Having hidden in the Changlu Salt Administration for a month, just as a group of foreign ships arrived, his family, being foreign merchants with old connections, managed to pool together twenty thousand silver pieces, along with an additional five thousand in foreign goods, and thus regained their wealth. With the barrel broken, the issue had cooled down. He then returned to the capital, continuing to live disruptively as usual.
Xi Shi, a scion of a prominent family, surely had a formal name, didn’t he? His official name was Xi Zhengshen, but he was commonly referred to as Xi Eleven. In Lingnan, where he was from, “eleven” is a colloquial term, and thus he was also called Xi Laotu (Old Xi). Initially, when he arrived in the capital, he still spoke with a heavy Cantonese accent, which gradually became clearer as he started speaking Mandarin. He kept company mainly with two people, Zhang Zhongyu and Pan Qi Guan, with whom he got along well. Zhang Zhongyu was used to bustling environments and was skilled in managing accounts; seeing Xi Eleven splurge without care, Zhang quickly became familiar with Xi’s family background. When Xi Eleven’s money ran out and he needed to borrow more, Zhongyu facilitated a loan of ten thousand from Pan San’s silver office, taking a commission of one thousand himself, leaving Xi Eleven with eight thousand. Now with money in hand, he first repaid his debts and came to the capital without any specific duties, spending his days drinking and watching plays with Zhongyu and Pan San. These three were well-matched, and their friendship deepened. Pan San loved traveling by carriage and talked about the joys of travel on land; thus, Xi Eleven regarded him as a confidant. Comparing Pan and Xi, Pan was somewhat preferable; though annoying in appearance, his nature was feeble. He was timid, his wife was formidable, and as a wealthy man wary of being swindled, he was extremely cautious despite his lascivious desires. Xi Eleven, on the other hand, relying on his wealth and power, was lawless. His infamous nickname was “Smoky Tai Sui,” surrounded by many who would abet his misdeeds, and thus he acted without fear. He had a plan: stay in the capital no more than a year or two, get appointed to an office, and then leave. He wouldn’t make a scene unless it made him look less than a noble official. Lately, while waiting for an appointment, he had already invited a friend from the punishment department, recommended by Wang Tongzheng, who he paid annually twelve hundred taels to share his residence and start a small enterprise. Who was this person? It was Mr. Ji, the manure cart driver, who, noticing that Xi Eleven wasn’t far from promotion and coming from the same province, hoped to secure a good position within a year or two. Knowing Xi’s generous spending habits and seeing him as a naive noble, Ji didn’t expect to be working for him in the future and thus sought Sun Lianggong’s help to ask Wang Wenhui for a favor, which was readily granted. True to the saying “Birds of a feather flock together,” both were fond of exploiting opportunities, a perfect match in unsavory ways. After living with Xi for a few days, Ji figured out his host’s temperament and began to ingratiate himself, even managing to please him by giving him a few gifts from Officer Ba Ying, whom Xi greatly enjoyed. Ba Ying, having served a high official before, became increasingly arrogant in front of the family’s advisors, feeling more prestigious in his new clothes. When Ji desperately needed him, he would reluctantly socialize, a stark contrast to his previously accommodating behavior.
Let’s put aside these minor stories. One morning, while Xi Eleven was having breakfast at his residence with three guests, Zhang Zhongyu called for two courtiers. Unlike Zhongyu,
who was greedy for money but not for flesh, these courtiers were just superficially polite and not genuinely interested in deeper relationships, whereas Xi and Ji had no other interests but indulgence. Xi Eleven, particularly debase, would leave the table twice during a meal. Previously, only one courtier was involved, but now Ba Ying, even more eager to please than Chunlan, had joined. Although Ba Ying had dark skin, it was shiny and smooth, earning him the most affection due to his “oily” charm, as Ji drunkenly told others.
That day, during a drinking session, Xi Eleven called Chunlan away once and then sat back down before sending for Ba Ying. Unaware of the reason, Zhongyu thought it was some urgent matter and chatted idly with Liangxuan. The two courtiers, Rongguan and Chunlin, who were often called by Xi Eleven, exchanged glances and smiled. Liangxuan also made expressive gestures, and Zhongyu, catching a glimpse, was puzzled but refrained from asking. Suddenly, Rongguan asked Zhongyu, “Do you have a friend with the surname Wei? I recognized him when he first arrived in the capital, but I haven’t seen much of him lately. The other day I saw him at Fu Sanye’s place, looking quite distinguished with a big saddle and a heated carriage, and he even had attendants riding horses. What position does he hold now?” Zhongyu replied, “He hasn’t received an official position yet; he’s working as an advisor in Master Hua’s mansion and has become quite prosperous.” Liangxuan added, “I’ve heard people say that the wealth of the Hua family mansion is unmatched, second only to the emperor’s. Is that true?”
Zhongyu laughed, “That’s just gossip from outsiders. Speaking of the Hua family, they own a lot of land—over forty estates—and their annual rent alone is equivalent to the financial allocations of an entire mansion, which indeed makes them extremely wealthy.” Liangxuan nodded, “Our master often mentions that Young Master Hua is his uncle by generation, and Lord Hua was the old teacher of my former master. With such a significant connection, it’s strange our master doesn’t seek closer ties. I often advise him to visit. My master says that Lord Hua was his teacher back in the military camp, and back then Young Master Hua was still a child, probably not even aware of it, so he’s reluctant to visit. Even the current Governor of Guangdong and Guangxi, Xu Zhongtang, was a fellow disciple in the military camp. Now, only his second son is in the capital. I saw him the other day in a carriage with a fly screen and several horses following him, looking very dignified. I think he’ll be appointed as a governor or protector soon. Our master is also hesitant to visit him, and I don’t understand his temperament.” Zhongyu chuckled, “Young Master Xu is indeed a very wealthy man, and he and Young Master Hua are well matched. The other day, I spoke highly of your master to him, put in a lot of effort, and he doesn’t even know it; I haven’t told him yet. Logically, your master should thank me profoundly.” Liangxuan eagerly asked what it was about. Zhongyu just smiled, “You’ll find out later; no need to talk about it now.” Just then, Xi Eleven came out, wearing a pair of fine mesh sandals, a pair of blue musk silk pants, and a wild chicken kudzu sweatshirt, with Ba Ying following behind, carrying a black lacquer gold-decorated foreign fan, smiling and playfully emerging from the room. Liangxuan stood to greet him, and Zhongyu responded accordingly. Xi Eleven sat down, and Zhongyu asked, “What kept you so busy today?”
Xi Eleven smiled and replied, “Just took care of some small matters.” Then he said, “I was just accompanying you; let’s have a few more drinks.” Zhongyu responded, “I’ve had enough already.” Xi Eleven insisted, “Come on, let’s have two more and play a few rounds of punches.” Zhongyu agreed, “Alright.” Xi Eleven then played ten rounds of punches with Zhongyu, Liangxuan, Rongguan, and Chunlin. Initially, they called out clearly, but later their calls turned into strange sounds. Punching in Cantonese is the most unpleasant to listen to, sounding like the yelling involved in slaughtering dogs or ducks.
After finishing their round of boxing, they chatted idly when Zhong Yu suddenly asked Xi Eleven, “There’s a top-notch gentleman named Qin Yan living at Autumn Water Hall; his master is named Chang Qing. Have you ever seen him?” Xi Eleven replied, “I haven’t met him, but I have heard of him, and he’s reputed to be quite good.” Just as Zhong Yu was about to speak, Rong Guan interjected, “Good at what? He knows only two or three plays. If you invite him to drink, he won’t speak throughout the meal. Asking him to pour wine is out of the question.” Chun Lin added, “He puts on quite an air. When you visit his home, he doesn’t entertain guests at all. Even Wang Jiqing and Li Chunfang from the past, or current celebrities like Yuan Baozhu and Su Huifang, don’t act so high and mighty. He only socializes with those he likes; if he dislikes someone, he utterly ignores them. He doesn’t even thank you when you give him gifts, nor does he ever greet anyone.” Xi Eleven said, “I’ve never met such a gentleman. If I were to meet him and he behaved that way, would I curse him as a son of a bitch, and would he dare to bite off my balls?” Zhong Yu sneered, “Don’t brag, Xi the bumpkin. Even your two renowned ‘uncles’ who are well-known gentlemen can’t trouble him and often endure his arrogance. If you tried to visit him, you probably wouldn’t even make it inside his door, let alone meet him.” Liang Xuan argued, “How can that be? I don’t believe it. Could a wealthy host like him not seek to ingratiate himself with others? Doesn’t he like money?” Zhong Yu responded, “Others might be swayed by money, but this young fellow isn’t moved by it.” Xi Eleven retorted, “That’s nonsense, don’t just make wild claims. Watch me go there; I guarantee he will come out and treat me well.”
Rong Guan said, “Maybe not. Even if he comes out to meet you, that would be considered generous. He can’t possibly treat you well. I’ve seen how he treats people; it’s never pleasant, even when meeting important guests, he’s always cold. His two junior brothers, Tian Fu and Tian Shou, are better at socializing despite not being good-looking, and people don’t like them either. Their master, Cao Changqing, also has a peculiar temperament; he only loves money. Once he gets the money, he stops paying attention to people.” After hearing this, Xi Eleven genuinely couldn’t believe it and said to Zhong Yu, “Hold on, come with me and let’s see for ourselves what he’s like.” Zhong Yu replied, “I’ll go anywhere but there; besides, I cursed him the other day.” After dinner, everyone sat for a while longer before Zhong Yu took his leave. The two gentlemen continued their ruckus for a while before departing.
The next day, after breakfast, Xi Eleven remembered what Zhong Yu had said about Qin Yan and couldn’t believe it, deciding he must see for himself. After getting ready, he took Ji Liang Xuan, Chun Lan, and Ba Ying Guan with him. Changing into a new silk shirt, he rode in a carriage, with Chun Lan and Ba Ying Guan riding alongside him, while Liang Xuan hired another carriage to go to Autumn Water Hall.
Meanwhile, Qin Yan was in a sorrowful mood; just the day before, Chang Qing had left angrily after seeing an engagement, and despite Ye Maolin trying to soothe him with gentle words, he hadn’t replied, leaving Chang Qing somewhat suspicious. He also remembered an incident in May when two people had caused a disturbance, delivering four strings of coins and many gifts before leaving, supposedly the coachmen from the Duke Hua’s residence. Hearing about the engagement’s aggressive terms, he was very apprehensive and went to discuss with Qin Yan. Since returning from Yi Garden, Qin Yan had been crying constantly until now, not even knowing why, just feeling deeply sorrowful, as if something significant was bothering him. He worried first about the Duke’s son, who had shown appreciation and would likely invite him to perform in the mansion, where he would have to interact with many people; secondly, he missed Yu Xiang, who never appeared at lively events, adding to his heartache. Unexpectedly, the engagement was about to be finalized with plans to buy him.
Chang Qing entered, saw Qin Yan crying, and not knowing the reason, tried to comfort him. He then mentioned the engagement’s demands, which hinted at causing trouble to ensure Qin Yan couldn’t perform. He said, “I don’t know what you’re thinking, but if you go, it might be a life
of ease, but you’d be a servant in the Duke’s household forever.” Qin Yan, overwhelmed, began to sob loudly. Chang Qing, at a loss, tried to console him again. Qin Yan, through tears, said, “Master, I am so grateful that you took me in as your disciple and nurtured me for half a year. That’s why I’ve endured and lived on these past two months. Now that you no longer want me, I won’t go elsewhere to avoid troubling you. If I’m gone, you’ll be at peace.” After saying this, he cried again, and Chang Qing repeatedly sighed, “It’s not like that; I really can’t bear to let you go. I’m just discussing this because I fear opposing them might cause trouble for us both. They’re not asking for you for nothing; they’ve promised me thousands of silver. I can’t make sense of it; it feels like a loss-making deal, so I’m undecided. If you go, you’d indeed have better days, but it would be hard on me.” Qin Yan replied, “Master, it’s easy for you to get money; I’ve earned quite a bit for you this year. If I go, I’ll just stop; can I still make money? Even if you’re short on money, you shouldn’t think this way; it’s better not to sell me. I can still support you for a few more years.” Chang Qing said, “I originally thought the same as you, but there are many difficulties. Now, don’t worry about me; just think for yourself and decide what’s best. No need to cry anymore. I have to go out, and unfortunately, Tian Fu and Tian Shou have gone to the theater. If you’re feeling stifled, why not ask Su Lan to come and play with you? He’s not going to the garden today, and you get along well with him.” Saying this, he left and sent someone to invite Su Lan right away.
Just as he stepped inside, Xi Eleven had already arrived at the door. Chun Lan and Ying Guan got off the carriage and inquired within, only to be told that no one was home. Hearing this, Xi Eleven felt a surge of anger and got down from the carriage himself. Just as he was entering, Ji Liang Xuan was still outside when someone cheerfully approached and said, “Sir, whom are you looking for? If it’s the young gentlemen, none of them are in the house.” With that, he stood blocking the way and didn’t even say “please.” Xi Eleven saw this and his anger rose a notch. Just as he was about to speak, Chun Lan preempted him, saying, “Oh! This is the great Lord Xi. Regardless of whether the young gentlemen are home or not, you should invite the great lord inside. Why are you blocking the doorway?”
The man took two steps back and said, “Please come inside for some tea, sir.” He then opened the second door, and Xi Eleven, along with Liang Xuan, entered. They crossed the courtyard and entered the main hall, which was divided into three sections:
On the east side, one room was partitioned off as a guest room. Opposite were two rooms: one served as the gatehouse, and the other was empty.
The two men then entered one of the rooms and sat down. Ying Guan and Chun Lan sat outside. The man brought two cups of tea and, recognizing Chun Lan, asked about their origins before going to inform Chang Qing. Chang Qing said, “Since I’ve already sent word that I am not at home, there’s no need for formalities.” He thought to himself, “Although this Mr. Xi seems to be a naive sort, he is a tasteless person. Many a young master has fallen for his tricks, with no way to seek redress. If only Tian Fu and Tian Shou were here, perhaps there could be some benefit.” He then sent someone to the theater to call for them and dressed himself in preparation to entertain Xi Eleven.
Meanwhile, Lu Su Lan arrived and seeing Qin Yan asked, “What’s the matter?” She saw Qin Yan crying profusely, slumped over on the kang (a traditional Chinese bed). Su Lan comforted her, “What’s wrong now? What did your master say to call me here?” Qin Yan replied, “I really think I’m going to die this time; it’s not like before when I could endure it.” Su Lan urgently asked what was the matter, and Qin Yan recounted Chang Qing’s words. Su Lan was shocked and dazed for a while before asking, “What does your master intend?” Qin Yan said, “My master is at a loss, seeing no way out but my death to resolve this.” Su Lan responded, “You speak of death too readily; the matter must be carefully considered. After all, there is no turmoil now, and no one is pressing you; let’s slowly think of a solution.” Qin Yan said, “What solution can there be? Have you forgotten they have Wei Pin Cai, who would never spare my life? The only thing certain is that Yao Qing has doomed me.” Su Lan asked, “How can you say Yao Qing doomed you?” Qin Yan cried again, remaining silent. Su Lan, growing suspicious, pressed further, and Qin Yan sighed, “If only on the sixth day of the new year, Yao Qing had performed in ‘Startling Dream’, I wouldn’t have gone on stage, and would have remained clear of any mess. It’s her insistence that I perform that disaster of a substitute, causing me half a year of joylessness. The other day, that very play ‘Seeking Dreams’ ruined me, especially since I performed it with Yao Qing. If she had been satisfied, I might have been careless too. But to be humiliated on stage by her, I had no choice but to engage wholeheartedly, which led to this disaster. Isn’t it all Yao Qing’s fault?”
Su Lan said, “I think Mr. Hua is not a bad person; I’ve never seen him mistreat anyone. If you didn’t have these worries, you could mix in for a few years; perhaps there might even be some benefits, who knows. It’s just that you won’t be able to meet Yu Xiang, which is sad.” Qin Yan responded, “Even if Mr. Hua is a good man, could Wei Pin Cai not corrupt him?”
Su Lan replied, “If you were together, Wei Pin Cai wouldn’t just not bully you; he’d probably try to curry favor with you! But let me say this, and don’t be upset with me: in our circle, when people get along, it’s about the heart, but one shouldn’t go too far. Take Du Xiang and Yu Xiang, for example; both treat you the same. However, Yu Xiang focuses solely on you, unwilling to shift his affection, so you, in turn, focus solely on him, not willing to budge—that’s a committed effort. But Yu Xiang is different from others; he’s young, not used to being out, and it’s all rather inconvenient. If their family finds out, they’ll scold him, forbid him from going out; if they discover your relationship, they’ll blame you too. Keep Yu Xiang in your heart but don’t let others see through it. People will fault you, saying you treat everyone the same, but act differently towards him. Right now, no one blames you; Du Xiang treats you as usual. But if you constantly confront him, he might grow cold over time. Losing Du Xiang wouldn’t harm you, but your master would suffer. Right now, with Du Xiang supporting him, he wouldn’t need you to find someone else
. But if Du Xiang becomes indifferent, he’ll surely try to recover his expenses from you. Who else in the world treats people as Du Xiang does? When that time comes, you might suffer more than if you were in Mr. Hua’s house, which is saying something. If at that time, Yu Xiang could save you, that would be great; otherwise, he’ll only offer you tears and report your illness, keeping you both apart, still longing for each other. Imagine yourself, pushing the mill like a donkey on the outside, refining pills like a Taoist on the inside—can you endure that? Then you might truly wish for death, and that’s the fourth level. If you go in, maybe you can still come out; it’s uncertain. I hear Mr. Hua likes to facilitate others’ happiness. If he learns of your undying loyalty, perhaps he’ll help you two come together. Or at least, take a few days off, come to me, and we can invite Yu Xiang to meet without restrictions. If you think of him as just another Xi Eleven or Pan San, I can settle it for him: it won’t come to that. In my view, going in is the wiser choice.”
This thorough discourse, clear and unobstructed, even the most confused person could understand. How could Qin Yan, with her innate wisdom, not grasp it? She nodded and said, “I’m not unaware of these matters. I focus on affection at this moment, with matters to follow later. I prioritize what my heart finds peace in, waiting for joy and sorrow to come naturally. If it comes to the extreme, I will sacrifice my life in expression of my love, without any reservations.”
Su Lan said, “Sacrificing oneself for revenge, can’t we do it? But it also depends on the situation. Why would you sacrifice your life for Yu Xiang? If asked, even you couldn’t explain; and by dying, you wouldn’t be regarded as a loyal or heroic figure, nor as a chaste widow or righteous husband. The discerning would say you’re pitiable, a lovesick fool, while the ignorant might call you an idiot. Some might even wildly guess there’s another reason behind it. Furthermore, after your death, Yu Xiang would see through it all. He has parents to repay, a career to pursue; he hasn’t yet married or had children to continue his lineage—how could he justify sacrificing his life for you? Eventually, he would come to terms with it, and after some pain, he would laugh it off, saying, ‘Enough! Enough! All are mere illusions and void.’ It’s a pity for you, though. In the netherworld, you’d still be utterly alone, unable to see him, suffering the same sorrow, with no one to confide in. Could you still sing ‘Yang Gao’? When it comes time to die again, it would not be easy to live again.”
At this point, she herself laughed, and Qin Yan laughed too, exclaiming, “Brother Lan, Brother Lan! I truly admire you. Where did you gain such insights?” Suddenly, Su Lan wanted to move and asked, “Is there a place to relieve oneself in that small courtyard behind?” Qin Yan replied, “There’s a latrine, and it’s quite clean.” Su Lan then opened a small door at the back of the room and went to the latrine. Just then, there was a knocking sound; seeing a small back door in the northeast corner of the courtyard making noise, she asked, “Who is it?” From outside came the response, “I am Wang Lan Bao from across the street, sent to deliver watermelons to Qin Yan.” Hearing this, Qin Yan had someone open the door. The person brought in four watermelons, saying, “Lan Bao said these are good melons, sent as a gift to you. I entered through the back door, saving half a mile.” Qin Yan had someone give him two hundred coins to take back as thanks and asked if Lan Bao was at home. The man said he was, then returned through the back door. After Su Lan finished in the latrine, Qin Yan opened a melon, and they found it incredibly sweet as they ate. While they were enjoying the melons, suddenly there was a commotion outside; hurriedly sending someone to check, the person returned panicking, saying, “It’s terrible, that Mr. Xi is causing a huge uproar, and your master has been knocked down.” Before finishing, the shock left Qin Yan and Su Lan soulless. Su Lan said, “Quick, close the room door and have someone lock it from the outside.” The two then opened the back door and went to Wang Lan Bao’s house.
Meanwhile, Chang Qing went out to meet Xi Shi Yi, greeted him, and upon looking up at his imposing appearance—tall, sturdy, with a face clouded by smoke and seemingly angry—and another man of small stature with a mean look, he saw two handsome attendants, recognizing one as Chun Lan, and invited them into the guest room. Xi Shi Yi said, “My surname is Xi, and you probably know that without me saying. I’ve heard you have a Qin Yan here; I specifically came to meet him. Call him out quickly.” Chang Qing, smiling apologetically, said, “Unfortunately, Qin Yan is not at home; he went into the city.”
Upon hearing this, Xi Shi Yi frowned and said, “He never goes to the city, but chooses today to do so. If he’s not here, call him out; why hide? You might hide from others, but do you think I can be avoided? Don’t be foolish.” Seeing that things were getting tense and it seemed like Xi had come with a purpose, Chang Qing tried to stall, smiling all the while and thinking of ways to placate him. He said, “Honestly, our troupe recently added several new plays, which we performed at Yi Garden for a month before going on stage. Just the other day, young Master Hua saw them at Master Xu’s and invited them to perform in his mansion. They’ve sung for two days and will need three more to finish. Qin Yan has many parts to play, and young Master Hua likes him. If it were somewhere else, I could call him back, but I dare not do so from that mansion. Perhaps if you have connections with the young master, you could send a steward with a note to request his presence. If it pleases you, you could keep him for your use. I have long heard of your
great reputation and wanted to invite you over for fun, fearing that a nobleman like you wouldn’t step into a lowly place like ours and also because we’ve never served you before, so I didn’t dare to presume. Don’t be suspicious. If I wanted to hide him, what would I gain? Not to mention someone of your stature, even ordinary people would come out.”
With this, he approached Xi Shi Yi, fanning him and chuckling, “Please relax your clothes; if you want to lie down on the heated brick bed, I even have some old clay tobacco for you.” Seeing his careful demeanor, Xi Shi Yi’s anger subsided, unable to erupt; smelling the tobacco, which he liked, he said, “Since he’s truly not at home, let it be. I’m not boasting, but there’s hardly a gentleman in the capital who doesn’t know me. If you understand, bring him to meet me in a few days. Even young Master Hua, our families are old friends; if you tell him I asked for him, he wouldn’t feel good about refusing.” With that, he unfastened a couple of buttons. Chang Qing helped him off with his jacket, folded it neatly, handed it to Chun Lan, and then invited him to the place to smoke, with Liang Xuan following them inside.
Xi Shi Yi’s treasures were always carried with him; Chun Lan took them out one by one from a pocket, setting them on the brick bed. Chang Qing stayed, lighting a few for him, then came up with another bad idea, accompanying it with a smile, “I have two other apprentices: one named Tian Fu, the other Tian Shou. Today I’ll have them serve you; later we’ll call Qin Yan to the mansion. I wonder if that would be acceptable to you?” Since Xi Shi Yi was already enjoying his smoke, he felt too lazy to get up. Thinking about Chang Qing’s earnestness, he nodded, saying, “Call them to see.” Chang Qing then had someone fetch Tian Fu and Tian Shou, who came and stood by the brick bed. Xi Shi Yi looked at them: one with a round face, the other with a pointed face, both with clear and fair features, dressed alike in lake-blue silk robes and small pink boots.
After the security check, Liangxuan reappeared. Changqing called them to join him in smoking, and then he slipped away when he found a moment.
Tianfu lay down across from Xi Shiyi, while Tianshou sat on the edge of the bed. Liangxuan pulled a stool close to the edge of the bed to watch them smoke. Chunlan and Ba Yingguan stood by the curtain at the door, watching. Suddenly, Tianshou climbed onto Xi Shiyi to look at the jade bracelet on his wrist. Tianfu also leaned over, pulling Xi Shiyi’s hand across the lamp plate, and they both looked together. Liangxuan then lay down on the bed too, and the two young lords took turns smoking on the edge of the bed. Tianfu sat next to Xi Shiyi, and Tianshou next to Ji Liangxuan, chatting incessantly on both sides. Despite the heat, Liangxuan embraced Tianshou, and seeing this, Ba Yingguan at the door coughed and spat phlegm into the room. Liangxuan, seeing this, fanned with his fan twice, exclaiming, “It’s so hot.” Xi Shiyi, with one leg over Tianfu, shared a puff of smoke between them.
Chunlan and Ba Yingguan, unable to bear the sight, walked out and strolled around. Inside, they saw some guests, who were relatives of Changqing. They also noticed a half-open door to the east, pushed it open, and entered to find a quiet place with a large plum tree. Three rooms were there, with green gauze pasted on the eastern window and the blinds drawn. Step by step, they approached the window and peeked through a crack, seeing two exceptionally beautiful young lords on the bed, one silent, the other speaking softly, both recognized by Chunlan.
Suddenly, Sulan turned her head, seeing a shadow at the window and asked, “Who’s there?” The two burst out laughing and ran away. When Sulan wanted to check, Qin spoke, “Why bother? It must be the mischievous Tianfu and Tianshou.” Sulan, still uneasy from being frightened the day before, asked someone to close the door to prevent entry. Chunlan told Ba Yingguan, “They say Qin is not home, but isn’t that him sitting on the bed?” Ba Yingguan asked, “Who then?” Chunlan replied, “It’s Sulan. Let’s tell our master, he won’t agree with this.” They returned to the door and saw everyone still crowded together, hearing Xi Shiyi asking, “When exactly is Qin coming back?” As Tianfu was about to reply, Chunlan said, “They are deceiving our master; Qin is inside, sitting on the bed talking with Sulan, claiming he’s in the city for a play.” Hearing this, Xi Shiyi, enraged, jumped up and stormed out, with Tianfu and Tianshou holding him back. Xi Shiyi broke free, causing both to fall. Chunlan pointed out, “I saw Qin through that small door at the back.” Enraged, Xi Shiyi, caring for nothing, stormed in. Changqing, having heard, hurried out to meet him, bumping face-to-face and hastily inquired with a smile, “Where are you headed, my lord? It’s just family living here.” Xi Shiyi shouted, “I’m not here to see your wife,” and pushed past as Changqing realized the news had leaked and the guard at the gate had seen it and went inside to report. Changqing was unable to stop him and was pushed aside by Xi Shiyi, stumbling and falling.
Xi Shiyi entered the courtyard, saw the window, and broke through the paper, looking around but seeing no one. He then turned to the center, saw the door locked, and demanded the keys. Changqing rushed to say, “This is where my relative Mr. Wu lives; he has the keys with him, and there’s nothing worth seeing inside.” Xi Shiyi, hesitant to break in, was assured by Chunlan, who had seen it with his own eyes, that the person must be hiding under the bed. Changqing retorted, “You’ve seen a ghost in broad daylight.” Chunlan replied, “I haven’t seen a ghost, but you’re speaking nonsense.” Enraged, Xi Shiyi kicked open the door and entered, only to lift the curtain and look under the bed, finding no one.
Xi Shiyi saw a back door in the rear open, peeked out, and noticed a gate slightly ajar, realizing the escape route. Furious, he first tore down Qin’s bed curtains, then flipped a table, scattering small items everywhere. Changying, very angry yet unable to protest, tried to speak but was interrupted
as Xi Shiyi slapped him five times. Changqing, overwhelmed and unable to fight back, with half his face red, shouted, “Great ancestor, let’s talk outside. Who has deceived you to come and make trouble here? Although I am involved in the opera, I’ve never seen anyone come to fight without reason; let’s discuss this in the street.” Xi Shiyi, without responding, grabbed Changqing, dragged him outside, and threw him down again. Ji Liangxuan hurriedly intervened, desperately trying to separate them, and Changqing’s family also came to calm things down. Xi Shiyi sat down, Changqing got up, gasping for breath and stunned. Liangxuan, seeing this, quickly dressed Xi Shiyi and earnestly persuaded him to leave. As Xi Shiyi left, still cursing, Liangxuan followed him in the carriage, while Tianfu and Tianshou had disappeared.
After this ordeal, Changqing dared not utter a sound, closed the door, and immediately sent someone to find Qin at Lan Bao’s place, who also sent Sulan. Everyone talked about how Xi Shiyi was brutally ferocious, fearing that someone might be inciting him and he wouldn’t stop in the future. One unresolved grievance with Wei Pin was bad enough, and now Xi Shiyi added to their troubles. This left Changqing even more afraid, with Qin just crying. Lan Bao suggested, “I have a good idea, only if Yu Nong agrees, it would be proper. Send him to Duke Hua’s residence tomorrow. They will offer you a reward, which you should refuse, saying you fear the child might not understand the rules and fail in service, suggesting he be taken in temporarily for two months to see if it suits. If there’s a problem, you can always ask for leave to bring him out for a few days. Seeing he can’t perform, the Duke will naturally reward him, and then you will have both wealth and influence, and no one will dare bother you. Once inside, even if he’s unsuitable, you can still send him back, right? If you demand a reward upfront, arguing over it could annoy him, which is unwise. Once he’s in, he’ll belong to the Duke’s household.” Before he finished, Sulan applauded the plan, and even Qin, seeing today’s events, felt helpless but agreed. Changqing, convinced, moved that night to Sulan’s house. The next day, Xi Shiyi indeed returned, searched everywhere without finding anyone, and left furiously.
What happens next will be told in the next chapter.