話說長慶被打之後甚是著急，只得仍去央求葉茂林，同到華公府聘才書房負荊請罪，情願先送進來，分文不要。聘才見他小心陪禮，且說一錢不要，便甚得意，只道他一怒之後，使他愧悔送上門來，應了前日所說的話，便找了珊枝，請公子出來說了，華公子道：「為何不要身價呢？」聘才說：「他的意思恐怕孩子不懂規矩，二來如有錯處，公子厭了，他仍可以領了出去，所以他不敢領價。」公子點了點頭道：「這也使得，明日進來就是了。但既進了我的府，無論領價不領價，外面是不准陪酒唱戲的。」聘才道：「這個自然，長慶能有幾個腦袋，敢作這種事？」華公子又吩咐珊枝：「你對帳房說：每月給長慶二百銀子，叫他按月到府支領。」珊枝答應了，即同聘才出來，見了長慶，一一說明；聘才又作了許多情，長慶喜出望外，叩謝聘才而去。回來與琴言講了。琴言到此光景，自知不能不避。但今日之禍起蕭牆，子玉全然不知，明日進了華府，未卜何日相見，意欲就去別他一別，猶恐見面彼此傷心，耳目又多，諸多未便；欲寫信與他，方寸已亂，萬語千言，無從下筆，只好諄托素蘭轉致。便又想了一會，即將自己常常拭淚的那方羅帕，揀了四味藥另包了，將帕子包好，外面再將紙封了，交與素蘭，托他見了子玉面交。
至明日，長慶即把琴言送到華府，公子又細細的打量了一回，心中甚喜，即撥在留青舍伺候。又領他到華夫人處叩見，華夫人見他弱質婷婷，毫無優伶習氣，也說了個「好」字，華公子是更不必說。琴言心上總是惦記子玉，也只好暗中灑淚，背地長吁。過了幾天，見華公子脾氣是正正經經的，沒有什麼歪纏之處，便也略覺放心。惟見了魏聘才，只是息夫人不言的光景，聘才也無可奈何，就要用計收拾他，此時也斷乎不能。
且說琴言臨行之際，所留之物托素蘭面交子玉。素蘭打算過幾日，請子玉過來，與他面談衷曲。
卻說子玉自五月內與琴言一敘之後，直至今日，並非沒有訪過琴言，但其中有多少錯誤。這一日天氣涼爽，早飯後到素蘭處，先叫雲兒問了在家，素蘭聞知甚喜，忙出迎進。只見房內走出兩人來：子玉看時，認得一個是王蘭保；一個是琪官，因多時不見他，即看了他一看。見他杏臉搓酥，柳眉聳翠，光彩奕奕，嫋娜婷婷，年紀與素蘭彷彿，身量略小些，上前見了。
子玉道：「今日實不料香畹處尚有佳客。」蘭保道：「這就是你的小姨子，你們會過親沒有？」子玉道：「這是什麼話？那裡有這個稱呼？」素蘭道：「這個稱呼倒也通。」琪官也不好意思，便道：「靜芳不要取笑。」蘭保道：「這倒也不算取笑，你是玉儂的師弟，可不是他的小姨嗎？」子玉笑道：「豈有此理。」說著遂各坐下。見桌上杯盤狼籍，似吃飯的光景，素蘭叫人收拾了，便親送一碗茶來，問道：「你今日之來甚奇，想必已經知道了。」子玉聽了又是不解，問道：「什麼事已經知道？我卻實在是不知道。」蘭保看著子玉道：「你倒不曉得？已隔了五六天了，就算你不出來，難道也沒有人對你去說的麼？」
子玉更覺納悶，卻思不到琴言身上來，說道：「我實在不曉得你們說的是什麼，我是不出大門的，這兩天又沒人到我那裡，如何曉得外面的事？」琪官笑了一笑，素蘭道：「你真不知道，我只得告訴你，你且坐穩了。靜芳、玉豔，你兩個扶住了他，待我再說。」子玉道：「香畹一向直爽，今日何故作這些態度？想來也沒有什麼奇事，故作驚人之語耳。」素蘭又把子玉看了又看，惹得蘭保、琪官皆笑。子玉看他們光景，著實心疑，便道：「香畹，你且說來。」素蘭又怔了一怔道：「說倒有些難說，有件東西給你一看就知道了。」子玉此時直不知什麼事情，只見素蘭從小拜匣內，拿出一個紙包來，像封信是的，簽子上頭又沒有字，包又是方的，接到手內輕飄飄，拿手捏捏，覺鬆鬆的似乎有物。便即撕去封皮，見是一塊白羅，像是帕子，心上益發疑心，即一抖，掉出四個小紙包來。蘭保等亦都走過來看。子玉拆開紙包，攤放桌上，卻是四味藥，又不認得。素蘭便問道：「這是什麼藥？」子玉道：「我不認得。我且問你：給我看是什麼意思？怎麼你又不知道呢？」此時那三人都不言語，只管瞧著那幾包藥，子玉看他們也似不明不白的，心上便越發狐疑，便問素蘭道：「這包東西到底是誰的？你們講得這樣稀奇。」素蘭道：「不是我與你要這包東西，是你眠思夢想的那個人，臨別時留下，囑付我寄與你的，我當是有什麼要緊的東西，不曉得他就將天天所吃的藥包了些。這帕子他想你必認得，叫你睹物懷人的意思。」子玉一聽，心中老大一跳，一面看了看這羅帕，一面想道：「聽他如此說來，難道玉儂有什麼緣故？像是不吉的話。」如此一想更覺一股悲酸，從心裡走到泥丸宮，復轉將下來，竟透出眼鼻之間，已是涕泗淚瀾，忍耐不住，便索索落落的流下淚來。三人看了也一齊歎息。子玉見此光景，更不敢再問，倒像已經明白一樣，就把帕子拭了一拭，想道：「這藥想必臨終的時候吃的了，故寄與我看。」便覺萬箭攢心，手足無措，只得站起來到外間坐下，想要大哭幾聲，但在素蘭這裡究竟不便，只掩泣發怔。素蘭見此光景，倒悔自己孟浪，又想方才的話說得竟像玉儂死了，所以觸起他傷心，即忙出來，對子玉講道：「你且不必著急，還等我說。玉儂沒有怎樣，請進屋內坐下，候我細說。」子玉聽了便著急道：「香畹你有話就直說，別這麼半吞半吐的唬人，到底玉儂怎樣？」便又走到裡間來，蘭保、琪官看著他，也有些淒楚。素蘭道：「你細聽著這五月內的事情。」便一五一十的將魏聘才怎樣的來說，奚十一怎樣來鬧，他與蘭保怎樣的勸，怎樣的出主意，又怎樣的躲避奚十一，又怎樣的送進華府，臨行時怎樣哭泣囑付，又將不受身價並可靠假出來的話，細細的述了一遍，又安慰了幾句。
子玉聽了，知琴言尚在人間，心便放了一分，停了一停道：「玉儂此去，也就如出塵離世的一樣。」便又滾下淚來，出了一回神，重把那幾味藥看了又看，只認得一樣是芍藥，其餘皆不認識，因對素蘭道：「玉儂寄這幾味藥，必有深意，但不知是什麼藥，你可叫人拿到藥鋪問明，叫他就寫在包上。」素蘭道：「說的是。」就要叫人，琪官道：「不用，跟我的人就認得，他在藥鋪裡當過伙計。」琪官即叫那人進來，把這四味藥給他認，那人看了，便說道：「這味是牽牛，這是獨活，這是芍藥，這是防己。」琪官拿起筆來寫了，卻想不出意思。素蘭道：「他離開了你，便是獨活了，我懂得這一味。」蘭保道：「防己是防自己的身子，好叫你放心。那兩樣實在想不出來。」子玉含著眼淚道：「玉儂的心事全見於此，這芍藥一名將離，言進了華府是已經離的了。既離了，自然是獨活了。獨活在華府中，難道浮沉俯仰與眾人一樣？自然自己必定小心謹慎，刻刻預防，守身如玉。這牽牛沒有別的解法，必定是七月七日回來，約我來一見，是織女、牽牛相見之期了。」素蘭道：「是極，妙極，你猜的一點不錯，正是這個意思。玉儂的心思，與人不同，他若寫封信與你，猶恐被人看見：且萬苦千愁，也難下筆，倒不如這個意思好。若到七夕，你是必到我這裡來歇一天。我們進去，還要把你今日的情形，講給他聽，也不枉了你這一片苦心。」說說講講，三人殷慇懃勤的安慰，子玉也只好忍耐住了。琪官是與子玉初次盤桓，因見子玉的丰標，十分羨仰，怪不得玉儂心上只有他一人；又看他如此情重，正如新婦須配參軍，只可惜緣分淺薄，會少離多，始信蒼天之磨折人也。
又對子玉，把從前魏聘才同船，一路在舟中下作的模樣講了好些。忽又想起奚十一來，復咬牙切齒的罵幾句。素蘭讓子玉吃飯，子玉心緒不佳，便要早回，辭了一徑回去，車上便覺四肢不舒起來。
到了家中，見過顏夫人，便到書房躺下，自言自語，忽歎忽泣，如中酒一般。次日即大病起來，心神顛倒，語言無次，一日之內，哭泣數次。初時見有人尚能忍住，後來漸漸的忍不住。見了他萱堂，也自兩淚交流，神昏色沮的的模樣。顏夫人當他著了邪病，延醫調治，甚至求籤問卜，許願祈神，一連十餘日，不見一毫效驗。一日之內有時昏憒，有時清楚，昏憒時糊糊塗涂，不聞不見的光景；清楚時與好人一樣。睡夢中囈語喃喃，有時叫玉儂，有時喚香畹，有時大罵奚十一、魏聘才諸人。顏夫人十分著急，顏仲清、王恂三天兩日常來看視，心中雖是明白，卻也無法可治。二人商量，又不好對顏夫人講，只好婉言解慰而已。顏夫人每聽子玉睡夢之中，必呼玉儂二字，心上便疑心子玉在外有什麼勾當，便當玉儂是個女人，心有說不出的隱情；因又想子玉不常出門，出門必有雲兒隨去。一日便喚雲兒來細細追問，說：「你跟少爺出去，到底在些什麼地方？那玉儂是誰？還是娼妓呢，還是什麼樣的人？」雲兒起初不招，只說：「少爺出門，無非是怡園，及王少爺、史少年幾處，並沒有見個女人。小的如撒了謊，今天就活不過。」顏夫人想道：「好好問他，他必不肯認。」遂命家人拿了板子，吩咐著實與我打著問他。雲兒見要打，只得跪下磕頭說：「實在是有個小旦，名字叫作琴言，少爺常去找他，見了面，兩人也是哭的時候多，笑的時候少。就是五月裡，有一天說是到怡園徐老爺處，也是假的，就同了那個小旦，還有一個也是小旦，在東門外運河裡遊了半天，也是哭了半天。小的在船頭上，別樣話是聽不見的。前日少爺到了那個小旦家裡，那個小旦說起琴言進了什麼華公府裡去了，又把那個小旦給少爺留了一個紙包，小的卻不知道是什麼東西，少爺就在那裡哭起來。他們勸住了，回來就是這個樣子。小的沒有一句謊話。至於別樣的事，少爺是一點沒有的。」顏夫人聽了，十分有氣，便罵雲兒道：「你就該結結實實的打。為什麼不早告訴我，直到要打才講。若不看你還說實話，今日就活活打死。」喝退雲兒，心中便恨起這個兒子來，年紀輕輕的，就如此荒唐。若說為了一個小旦，何至於就害如此大病。越想越氣，欲要教訓他一番，又看他病到如此；且自己也四十歲之外的人，止此一子，今病到如此，即教訓也是無益。萬一因這一番教訓，再添了病，更難治了，莫若待他好了再說。左思右想，便請進李元茂來，問其底細。
李元茂道：「小門生沒同出去過，琴言不琴言，我也不得而知。我去年聽見魏老聘常常贊那琴言，世叔就有些留心。到今年正月初六，會館團拜那一天，世叔看了琴言的戲回來，又聽得他們說好，以後的事，小門生實是沒有見聞，要問魏老聘才曉得他們的細底。」顏夫人便叫門上許順，到華府請魏少爺過來有事相商。聘才卻不曉得是這件事，近來與子玉頗覺疏遠，竟有一個多月不來。今聞顏夫人相請，道是有些好事與他商量。隔了一日，便服御輝煌的出城，到了梅宅，見過了顏夫人。見顏夫人臉上似有憂悶的光景，聘才先問了江西的近況，可有家信回來；又問起子玉，並說場期將近，今年一定高中的這些套話。
講了一回，顏夫人道：「子玉得了一個異樣的病症。」便把病的光景說與聘才聽，又將雲兒、元茂的話也說了，便說：「小兒與這琴言到底有什麼緣故？」聘才聽了便覺得有些躊躇不安，良心發動，臉上露出愧色。停了一會，說道：「去年小姪進京，是搭了一班戲子的船，內中有個小旦叫琴言。今年團拜這一天，卻好見著他的戲。後來世兄不知怎樣認識的，聽說在怡園打燈謎時認識的，又贈了一張琴。小姪是個粗人，搭不上這一般的文人。其中怎樣熟識，怎樣交情，小姪卻不曉得。世兄常往來的那一班公子，伯母也都知道，其中的深情，他們必知，伯母何不問問他們。」顏夫人道：「此時那個琴言呢？」聘才道：「琴言前在怡園學了什麼新戲，為華公子賞識了。」說到此處，又半站起來說：「小姪受老伯與老伯母的厚恩，實在感激不盡，知道世兄是為這個小旦害成了這一場大病，荒廢詩書，糟蹋身子，所以倒設法慫慂華公子買他。不料事有湊巧，有個姓奚的，為琴言在那裡鬧起來，要收拾他們。琴言的師傅害怕，不得主意，小姪因又勸他，於前幾日已把琴言送進華公府了。琴言既進了華府，一時是不能出來的。小倒心中倒覺喜歡，從此世兄倒可以杜絕了這片心，可以作些正經事，不然也為這個小旦所累了。」顏夫人聽了便怒上心來，頗恨子玉不成人，弄這些笑話出來，心上反感激聘才，先與聘才道了謝。又說道：「你兄弟如今病到這樣，看來必是為這個小旦；睡夢中胡言亂語，忽哭忽笑，口口聲聲只叫玉儂，自然是為那個小旦進了華府的原故。你兄弟雖沒出息，但我跟前就是他一個，設或有些長短，他父親回來，叫我何顏相對？世兄你是明白能辦事，怎麼想個方法將他醫好才好。」聘才搖搖頭道：「此事甚難，從來說心病還須心藥醫。小姪是知道府上規矩的，難道伯父大人肯許他出去鬧嗎？」顏夫人道：「不是這麼說，我豈肯縱容他出去鬧小旦，就算我溺愛，也斷不至此。我聽雲兒說他與小旦見面也只是哭，小孩子不知什麼意思，諒來沒有別的緣故，或是他們有些緣分也未可知。我想如今他眠思夢想的，總為著那個小旦。你既在華府裡，你可想個法子，叫那小旦出來安慰安慰他，或者就好的快了。」顏夫人說到此，便已滴下淚來。聘才縐著眉，也歎了一口氣道：「偏偏遇著這個人又是不順人情的，況是二百銀子一個月的工食，如何能叫的出來？」
顏夫人問道：「怎麼就要二百銀子一個月？這個人想來是個活寶了。既然這麼要錢，你兄弟是沒有錢的，怎麼又認識他呢？」
聘才道：「琴言原不要錢，他師傅是非錢不行。小姪方才細想了，斷無法子弄他來，必要和他師傅商量了，事方可行。他師傅又不肯講白話的。」顏夫人道：「他師傅是怎樣的？」聘才道：「難說話的很，在錢眼裡過日子，要和他商量，除非多許他錢，尚不知他肯不肯。他怕得罪了那邊，一年得不了這兩千四百頭就難了。我看這個東西要和他講白話，是斷斷不能的。」
顏夫人聽了這話，似乎要花些錢，便道：「只要把他叫得來，就給他錢也不要緊，但不知要用多少？」聘才道：「小姪再去見他講講看，總之小姪再沒有不盡心的，先請伯母大人寬心。
「說著起身告辭，顏夫人又含淚道：「多費世兄的心，此刻我也不說什麼了。既然如此，請你今日就去。如來得及，今日就賜一回信更好。」聘才答應了，即便告辭出來，看了看子玉。子玉見了聘才，雖在病中，卻未忘前事，便合眼裝睡，沒有理他。
聘才與元茂略談幾句，即便出來，一徑回華府，到自己房中坐下，細細的想了一回，沒有主意。即來找珊枝，把方才顏夫人托他話，都說與珊枝，又加上些話。又說我與這個兄弟是三代世交，且我這梅老伯母，止他一子，人極聰明，相貌生得也極齊整，你只當行好事，怎麼成全成全他。倘能醫好了這個病，我也感激你不盡。」珊枝道：「我有什麼法子？只好稟明了公子，說你說的，叫他去看一看就是了。」聘才連忙搖手道：「使不得，公子的脾氣，咱們還不知道？如此說非但不肯，大家也不好看，須得另想個法子。」珊枝道：「你有法子你就行，我是不管這些事的。」聘才聽了此話，便深深的一揖道：「好老三，好兄弟，你若成全了這件事，我叫我那兄弟送你兩匹新花樣的好庫紗。」珊枝被聘才再三求不過，躊躇了好一會，又觸起自己的心事來，便說道：「明日叫他去就是了。若問起來，我自有話說，不說你就是了。」聘才聽罷，笑逐顏開，深深的一揖，道了謝。因看天色尚早，即坐車出來，見了顏夫人，故作許多為難的光景，說：「他師傅依是依了，但是要給他二百銀子，他才肯去叫他出來；他又說怕一叫出來，那府裡不要了也未可知。若不能進府時，那就不好說話。只怕他就要照樣要起二千四百銀來。據小姪看來，此人實在刁滑可惡。把他痛痛說了一頓，他才有些害怕，說：『後來進去不進去，不關事，但此刻之二百兩是不能少的。不然，我擔了這個不是，一個錢不到手，又何苦作這險事。』」顏夫人聽了，心痛兒子，只得依他，便道：「明日就叫他來，就依他給他二百兩銀子就是了，以後的事情只好再說。」聘才見入其彀中，甚為歡喜。告辭出來，到了綢緞鋪，拿了兩匹好紗，次日送與珊枝。
你道珊枝是什麼意思，敢作主意叫他出來？原來琴言剛進來半月光景，連華夫人都疼他，時常賞他東西。又常說：「這孩子老實，不像個唱戲的。」因此珊枝便動了酸意。想道：「我進來了三年多，也算第一分的人，他才進來幾天，就這麼樣。腦袋又好，將來不要把我壓下去。」如此一想，便要設法擠他。今聽聘才的一番話，正好立主意，因此就應許他，便到了留青舍與琴言說知。琴言一聽就是眼淚汪汪的，說道：「怎麼庾香就病到如此，林哥你真能叫我出去，他家果真要我去看他嗎？」
珊枝道：「我無緣無故的，哄你作什麼？你只管放心：半天之內公子也不下來。即使叫你，我與你說，告假回去看師傅的病去就來的。公子若不說什麼，很好；要是說什麼，我自會答應。可有一層，你去只管去，可要早些回來。再者，你今既去，千萬把他的病治好了，再去第二回，可就難了。」琴言紅了臉不言語，心中卻也甚感激珊枝，我進來了倒全仗他照應，且能叫我去看庾香，以後倒不要忘了此人。珊枝走後，琴言想來想去，就把聘才的仇恨也就淡了，說這件事也虧他。
是日無話，好容易盼到天明，恰好又天從人願，華公子身子不爽快，在夫人房裡不出來。琴言便更放了心，忙忙的吃了飯，來找珊枝，說：「怎樣出去？我是不認得路徑。」珊枝道：「你同魏師爺出去，他們就不好問什麼；就使他們有話，也傳不到裡頭去。」琴言只得折口氣來找聘才，聘才見了心中甚喜，臉上卻裝了冷冷的說：「你去只管去，要謹慎些。將來鬧穿了，可別說我同你去的。」琴言答應了，即同聘才一重一重的出去，把門的有認得的，也有不認得的，見了聘才同著，卻不敢問。
出了大門，即叫琴言坐在車裡，放下車簾，自己跨沿，四兒坐在車尾，不多一刻即到了梅宅。聘才也不候通報，同了琴言一直到了書房。許順見了甚為詫異，卻又不好攔阻，也跟了進來。顏夫人正在盼望，見許順進來，似欲回什麼話似的，顏夫人問：「有什麼事？」許順說：「魏大爺同了一個人，到像個唱戲的似的，小的不敢不回。」顏夫人道：「我知道，快請進來。」許順去請，只見聘才同著一個十五六歲的孩子進來，不看也不覺得，細細一看，把顏夫人吃了一驚，倒像是那裡見過似的，忽然想起很像他未過門的媳婦瓊姑模樣。心中暗暗稱奇，說：「我常時聽戲，見過無數的小旦，不過上了裝像女人模樣，下臺時卻沒有細看過。今見這琴言玉骨冰肌，華光麗質，其尊貴的氣象，若梳了頭便是個千金小姐的身分。就是這本來面目，也像個宦家子弟，俊雅書生，恰與自己兒子生得大同小異。本來原有怒氣，想說他幾句。及至如今見了，不覺生出笑容來。
琴言一進門時，原為子玉病重，出於情所難忍，故不顧吉凶禍福，也拼著顏夫人罵了幾句。而且聘才在車上，一路上說了些利害話，心虛膽怯，只得戰戰兢兢上前，見夫人磕了一個頭起來，低頭傍立。顏夫人叫近前來，又打量了一回，即請聘才坐下。顏夫人道：「你是那裡人？去年幾時到京？怎麼認識我們少爺？又怎麼樣相好？你實對我說，我不難為你。」琴言見夫人顏色和霽，便略略放心，眼含雙淚，講了兩句，卻含含糊糊。夫人知他害怕，便安慰他道：「你不用害怕。這是我兒子不好，他來找你，不是你找他的。你只管放心，我決不難為你，你卻不可支吾，快些直說。」琴言停一停，只得說道：「小的是蘇州人，去年冬天到京，在聯錦班。因為父母雙亡，族中的叔母，將我賣出來的。今年正月初六日，在姑蘇會館唱戲，是頭一回見少爺。不知是怎麼緣故，倒像從前認識的一樣。到元宵那一日，小的到怡園徐老爺家看燈，看他們制些燈謎，內中小的最愛那『落花人獨立，微雨燕雙飛』那個燈謎，徐二老爺就把一張瑤琴，作了這個燈謎的彩頭，說有人猜著了，我就請他來與你相見。這日剛剛是少爺猜著。過了兩天就請了少爺來喝酒，叫小的來伺候。自從那一天才認識。第二次是素蘭邀遊運河，陪了半天。就這兩回，這是句句實話。夫人不信，只管問魏師爺。且少爺出門，夫人是曉得的。」話未說完，便止不住流下淚來。聘才道：「這都是實話，真真沒有見過三面。」顏夫人聽了，心中不解，所以又看琴言神氣，實在可憐，心中想道：「怎麼半年光景，就見過兩面？」便問道：「你的話自然句句是真的，但是少爺現在，心心念念就是惦記你，你自己想必明白。」琴言道：「夫人這樣恩典，小的敢不實說？實在也奇，非特我像從前見過少爺，就是少爺見了我，也說是好像從前認識的，就覺見面時，也是一家人似的，彼此也說不出緣故來。」顏夫人笑道：「聽你這一番話，卻真也奇，我實在想不出來。但如今少爺因為你進了華府，病到這個樣兒，我所以叫你來，你怎麼寬慰寬慰他，能夠叫他好了，我不但不怪你，還要賞你呢。」琴言聽了更覺酸楚，只不敢哭，惟嗚嗚咽咽的說了一句，卻不分明。顏夫人見此光景，倒反可憐，就請聘才同琴言到子玉房中來，自己與聘才在外間坐著，看他們所說何話，怎樣情景。那許順也直站到此刻，方才聽明少爺的病源，也跟到臥房中細聽。不知琴言怎樣醫好了子玉之病，且聽下回分解。
Certainly, here is the translation of the text paragraph by paragraph:
After being beaten, Changqing was extremely anxious and had no choice but to again ask Ye Maolin for help, to go together to the house of Master Hua to offer a formal apology. He was willing to let his charge enter without asking for any payment. Seeing Changqing’s cautious and respectful approach, and hearing that he asked for no money, Pincai was very pleased. He thought that after Changqing’s anger, he had been brought to repentance and humility, which confirmed what he had said the other day. So, he fetched Shanzhi and asked the young master to come out and speak. Master Hua asked, “Why isn’t he asking for a price?” Pincai explained, “He is probably worried that the child doesn’t understand the rules and might make a mistake, which could lead you, young master, to tire of him. Then he could take him back, so he dares not ask for a price.” The young master nodded and said, “That’s reasonable. Let him come in tomorrow. But once he’s in my house, whether or not a price is paid, he’s not allowed to accompany drinking or perform in plays outside.” Pincai replied, “Of course, how many heads does Changqing have to dare to do such a thing?” Master Hua then instructed Shanzhi: “Tell the accounting room to give Changqing two hundred silver pieces per month, which he should collect monthly from the estate.” Shanzhi agreed and left with Pincai. They met with Changqing and explained everything; moved by their kindness, Changqing was overjoyed and thanked Pincai before leaving. He went back and discussed everything with Qin Yan.
The next day, Changqing sent Qin Yan to Master Hua’s residence. The young master examined him closely again and was very pleased, assigning him to stay at the Liqing Lodge to serve. He also took him to meet Lady Hua, who found Qin Yan’s delicate and elegant nature pleasing and devoid of any actor’s affectations, uttering a word of approval, which the young master did not even need to express. Qin Yan, however, continued to worry about Ziyu and secretly shed tears in private. After a few days, seeing that Master Hua’s temperament was very proper and he did not harass him inappropriately, Qin Yan felt somewhat relieved. Yet, whenever he saw Wei Pincai, it was as if he was seeing a silent Madame Wei; Pincai was powerless to do anything and could not resort to using tricks against him.
Meanwhile, Qin Yan entrusted Suyu with something for Ziyu before he left. Suyu planned to invite Ziyu over in a few days to talk heart-to-heart.
Since their meeting in May, Ziyu had not ceased to inquire about Qin Yan, although there had been many misunderstandings. On this cool day, after breakfast, Ziyu went to Suyu’s place. First, he sent Yuner to ask if she was home. Suyu was very happy to hear of his arrival and hurriedly welcomed him inside. Two people came out from the room: Ziyu recognized one as Lanbao and the other as Qiguan, whom he had not seen for a long time. He looked at her, noting her peach-like cheeks and arching green eyebrows, radiant and gracefully slim, about the same age as Suyu but slightly shorter, and then stepped forward to greet them.
Ziyu said, “I did not expect to find such distinguished guests at Xiangwan’s place today.” Lanbao said, “This is your little aunt, have you met before?” Ziyu responded, “What kind of title is that? Where did that come from?” Suyu said, “This title actually makes sense.” Qiguan, embarrassed, said, “Please, Jingfang, don’t tease.” Lanbao said, “It’s not really teasing; she is Yunnong’s junior, isn’t she your little aunt?” Ziyu laughed, “That’s absurd.” As they all sat down, he noticed the table was a mess, as if a meal had just been eaten. Suyu called someone to clean up and personally brought a bowl of tea over, asking, “Your visit today is quite unexpected; you must have already heard.” Ziyu, confused, asked, “Heard what? I really don’t know.” Lanbao looked at Ziyu and said, “You don’t know? It’s been five or six days; even if you don’t come out, hasn’t anyone told you?”
Ziyu was even more puzzled, but couldn’t think of it relating to Qin Yan, and said, “I really don’t know what you’re talking about. I don’t leave the house, and these past few days, no one has come to me, how could I know what’s going on outside?” Qig
uan smiled, and Suyu said, “You really don’t know, then I must tell you, but sit tight. Jingfang, Yuyan, you two hold him steady while I speak.” Ziyu said, “Xiangwan has always been straightforward, why this behavior today? It seems like you’re making a shocking statement for the sake of it.” Suyu looked at him again and again, prompting Lanbao and Qiguan to laugh. Seeing their expressions, Ziyu was truly puzzled and said, “Xiangwan, just tell me.” Suyu hesitated and said, “It’s a bit hard to explain, there’s something I’ll show you and you’ll understand.” At this point, Ziyu had no idea what it was about, only to see Suyu take a paper-wrapped package from a small box, looking like a sealed letter, square-shaped, light in his hand and somewhat loose as if it contained something. He tore off the wrapper and found a white silk handkerchief inside, which increased his suspicion. He shook it and four small paper packets fell out. Lanbao and the others came over to look. Ziyu opened the packets and spread them on the table; they were four types of medicine, none of which he recognized. Suyu asked, “What are these medicines?” Ziyu replied, “I don’t recognize them. What are you showing me this for? How come you don’t know either?” At that moment, the three of them were silent, just looking at the medicine packets. Ziyu, increasingly suspicious, asked Suyu, “Whose package is this? You talk about it so mysteriously.” Suyu said, “It’s not from me to you, it’s from the person you dream of. She left it before she left, entrusting me to give it to you. I thought it was something important, but didn’t know she just packed the medicine she takes every day. She thought you would recognize this handkerchief, meant to remind you of her.” Hearing this, Ziyu felt a great shock, looked at the handkerchief, and thought, “Listening to her say this, could it be something unfortunate involving Yunnong? Such thoughts made him feel even more deeply sad, the sorrow rising from his heart to his brain and then overflowing through his eyes and nose. He could not help but shed tears continuously. The three of them sighed together. Seeing this, Ziyu did not dare to ask further, as if he already understood, and wiped his face with the handkerchief, thinking, “This medicine must be what she takes when she’s dying, so she sent it to me.” He felt as if his heart was being pierced by thousands of arrows, unable to move, and had to stand up and sit outside, wanting to cry out loud, but it was not appropriate at Suyu’s place, so he just sobbed quietly. Seeing this, Suyu regretted her rashness, thinking her words had made it sound as if Yunnong had died, thus stirring up his grief, and quickly came out to speak to Ziyu: “Don’t worry, wait until I explain. Yunnong is fine. Come inside and sit down, and I’ll tell you everything in detail.” Ziyu, anxious, said, “Xiangwan, just speak plainly, don’t scare me like this. What’s happened to Yunnong?” He walked back inside, with Lanbao and Qiguan looking on, also somewhat sorrowful. Suyu said, “Listen carefully to what happened in May.” She recounted everything about Wei Pincai, how Xi Eleven caused trouble, how she and Lanbao advised and strategized, how they avoided Xi Eleven, and how they sent Qin Yan to Master Hua’s house, including the tearful farewell and the discussions about not taking a price and the possibility of taking him back if needed, comforting him with a few words.
Hearing this, Ziyu felt slightly relieved to know Qin Yan was still among the living, and after pausing, said, “Yunnong’s departure is like leaving the dust of the world behind.” He then burst into tears again, coming out of his trance, and looked again at the four medicines, recognizing only one as peony root, the others he did not recognize. He said to Suyu, “Yunnong sent these four medicines with a deep meaning, but I don’t know what they are. Can you send someone to the pharmacy to find out and have them write it on the packets?” Suyu agreed, but Qiguan said, “No need, my attendant recognizes them; he used to work in a pharmacy.” Qiguan called the attendant in, who identified the medicines as morning glory, angelica, peony root, and fangji. Qiguan wrote this down, but could not decipher the meaning
. Suyu said, “He left you, which is like being alone; I understand that meaning.” Lanbao said, “Fangji is about protecting oneself, to reassure you. The other two, I really can’t figure out.” Ziyu, with tears in his eyes, said, “Yunnong’s feelings are all shown here. The peony root’s other name is ‘leaving,’ which means that entering Master Hua’s house is already leaving. Since he has left, he must be living alone. Living alone in Master Hua’s house, could his ups and downs be the same as others? He must be extremely cautious, always on guard, preserving his chastity like jade. The morning glory has no other interpretation; it must be that he will return on the seventh day of the seventh month to meet me, which is the appointed time for the Weaver Girl and the Cowherd to meet.” Suyu said, “Exactly, brilliantly guessed. That’s exactly the meaning. Yunnong’s thoughts are unlike others; if he wrote a letter to you, he feared it might be seen. It’s better to convey his feelings this way. If it’s the Qixi Festival, you must come here to rest for a day. We will go in and tell him about your state today, not wasting your heartfelt effort.” After much discussion and earnest comfort from the three, Ziyu managed to calm down. This was Qiguan’s first lengthy interaction with Ziyu, and seeing his striking appearance, she greatly admired him, no wonder Yunnong cared only for him; seeing his deep emotions was like a bride matched with an officer, only pitying that their fate was shallow, meeting less and parting more, thus believing in the heavens’ torment of people.
Sure, here’s the translation of the text:
He also talked to Ziyu about the behavior of Wei Piencài when they were together on a boat journey, recounting quite a few incidents. Suddenly, he remembered Xi Shi and again gritted his teeth in anger, cursing a few times. Sulan asked Ziyu to eat, but Ziyu, feeling distressed, decided to leave early and excused himself to return home. On the way back, he started to feel unwell in his limbs.
Upon reaching home and seeing Lady Yan, he went straight to his study, lay down, and talked to himself, sometimes sighing, sometimes crying, as if drunk. The next day, he became severely ill; his mind was confused, and his speech incoherent. Throughout the day, he cried multiple times. At first, he could hold back his tears when others were around, but gradually he could no longer restrain himself. Even seeing his mother, tears would flow from both, and his demeanor was bewildered and dispirited. Lady Yan thought he was possessed and sought medical treatment, even resorting to praying and divining for more than ten days, all without any effect. Within a day, he would alternate between being delirious and lucid. During his delirium, he was in a confused state, neither hearing nor seeing; when lucid, he appeared normal. He would mutter in his sleep, sometimes calling out for Yunnong, sometimes for Xiangwan, and at times furiously cursing Xi Shi and Wei Piencài. Lady Yan was extremely worried, and Yan Zhongqing and Wang Xun frequently visited to check on him, understanding the situation but also helpless. The two discussed the matter but could not speak directly to Lady Yan, only managing to offer words of consolation. Lady Yan, hearing Ziyu mention Yunnong in his sleep, suspected that Ziyu might have some secret involvement with someone outside, thinking Yunnong was a woman, hiding unspeakable secrets. She also considered that Ziyu rarely left the house without Yun accompanying him. One day, she summoned Yun and questioned him closely, asking, “When you go out with the young master, where exactly do you go? Who is Yunnong? Is she a prostitute or someone else?” Initially, Yun did not confess, only saying, “The young master only visits Yi Garden, and a few places belonging to young masters Wang and Shi, and I haven’t seen any women. If I lie, I may not live past today.” Lady Yan thought, “If I ask him nicely, he surely won’t admit to it.” Therefore, she ordered the servants to fetch a plank and threatened to beat the truth out of him. Seeing that he was about to be beaten, Yun knelt and kowtowed, saying, “Honestly, there is a young performer named Qin Yan. The young master often visits him, and whenever they meet, they cry more often than they laugh. In May, there was a day he said he was going to Yi Garden at Master Xu’s, but that was false. He was actually with that young performer and another performer in the canal outside the East Gate, crying for half the day. I was at the bow of the boat, and couldn’t hear anything else. The other day, the young master went to that young performer’s house, and that performer mentioned that Qin Yan had entered Master Hua’s residence. He also left a paper package for the young master, but I don’t know what was inside. After that, the young master started crying. They managed to console him, and since then, he has been like this. I haven’t lied about anything. Regarding other matters, the young master has done nothing wrong.” Hearing this, Lady Yan became very angry and scolded Yun, saying, “You deserved a good beating. Why didn’t you tell me sooner, waiting until you were about to be beaten to speak? If it weren’t for your honesty today, you would have been beaten to death.” Dismissing Yun, her heart filled with resentment towards her son, thinking how reckless he was at such a young age. She thought, if it were just for a young performer, why would it cause such a severe illness? The more she thought about it, the angrier she became, wanting to discipline him. Yet, seeing how ill he was and considering herself over forty years old with only this son so seriously ill, any discipline would be futile. Should his condition worsen due to her reprimand, it would only make matters worse. It would be better to wait until he recovered. After much deliberation, she summoned Li Yuanmao to inquire further.
Li Yuanmao said, “I haven’t gone out with him, so I don’t know whether it’s Qin Yan or not. Last year, I heard Old Master Wei often praise Qin Yan, and your son took some interest. This year, on
the sixth day of the first lunar month, after the guild hall’s New Year greetings, your son saw Qin Yan’s performance and heard others speak highly of it. I haven’t witnessed anything else, and you would have to ask Old Master Wei for more details.” Lady Yan then instructed Xu Shun to invite Young Master Wei from the Hua residence to discuss something important. Piencài, unaware of this matter and having felt some distance from Ziyu recently, had not visited for over a month. Hearing Lady Yan’s invitation, he thought it was for some good reason. After a day, he dressed splendidly and left the city for the Mei residence, meeting Lady Yan. Seeing her worried expression, Piencài first inquired about the recent situation in Jiangxi and whether there was any news from home. He also asked about Ziyu, mentioning the upcoming examination and the certainty of success this year.
After talking for a while, Lady Yan said, “Ziyu has contracted a strange illness.” She then described his condition to Piencài and also shared Yun and Yuanmao’s accounts, asking, “What exactly is the relationship between my son and this Qin Yan?” Piencài, feeling somewhat uneasy and conscience-stricken, his face showing guilt, paused for a moment before saying, “Last year, when I went to the capital, I traveled with a troupe of actors, including a young performer named Qin Yan. This New Year, I happened to see his performance. Later, I don’t know how your son got to know him. I heard they met while solving lantern riddles at Yi Garden and even exchanged a musical score. I’m a straightforward person and don’t mingle with such literary types. How they became acquainted and their relationship, I’m not sure. The group of gentlemen your son frequents are known to you, and they would know the depth of their relationship. Why not ask them?” Lady Yan asked, “Where is Qin Yan now?” Piencài replied, “Qin Yan recently learned some new plays at Yi Garden and was appreciated by Master Hua.” At this point, he half stood up and said, “I am deeply grateful for the generosity of my uncle and aunt. Knowing that your son has fallen ill because of this young performer, neglecting his studies and ruining his health, I tried to persuade Master Hua to buy him out. Coincidentally, someone named Xi caused trouble there, wanting to deal with them. Qin Yan’s master was afraid and indecisive. I persuaded him, and a few days ago, I managed to send Qin Yan to Master Hua’s residence. Now that Qin Yan is in Master Hua’s residence, it’s impossible for him to leave for a while. I am somewhat pleased that this might finally sever your son’s attachment, allowing him to focus on more serious matters. Otherwise, he would continue to be troubled by this young performer.” Lady Yan, hearing this, became angry, disliking how her son had become the subject of such jokes, yet she was grateful to Piencài, thanking him first. She added, “Your brother is so ill now, it seems definitely because of this young performer. In his sleep, he speaks nonsense, alternating between crying and laughing, constantly mentioning Yunnong, surely because of this young performer entering Master Hua’s residence. Although my son is worthless, he is the only one I have. If something happens to him, how could I face his father when he returns? Cousin, you are clever and capable. How about thinking of a way to cure him?” Piencài shook his head, saying, “This is very difficult. They say that only the heart can heal a heart’s sickness. I know the rules of your household. Would your father really allow him to cause such a scene?” Lady Yan replied, “It’s not what you think. I would never indulge him to cause a scene with the young performer, even if I dote on him. I don’t believe there is any other reason for their meeting, perhaps just some fate. I think he is constantly dreaming of that young performer. Since you are in the Hua residence, could you think of a way to bring the young performer out to comfort him? Perhaps he would recover quickly.” Lady Yan said this, her tears falling. Piencài frowned and sighed, saying, “It just so happens that this person is uncooperative, and with a monthly wage of two hundred silver pieces, how could he be summoned?”
Lady Yan asked, “Why does it cost two hundred silver pieces a month? This person must be quite valuable. Since he’s so expensive, how did your brother come to know him?”
Piencài replied, “Qin Yan himself doesn’t require payment; it’s his master who insists on money. I just thought about it, and there’s no way to bring him here without discussing it with his master, who won’t speak plainly.” Lady Yan asked, “What’s his
master like?” Piencài responded, “Very difficult to talk to, living day to day with money as his focus. To negotiate with him, unless you offer him more money, it’s uncertain if he would agree. He’s afraid of offending the other side, and losing out on the two thousand four hundred annual income would be difficult. I think it’s absolutely impossible to speak plainly with him.”
Lady Yan, hearing this, seemed willing to spend the money, saying, “As long as he can be summoned, paying him wouldn’t be a problem, but I don’t know how much it would cost?” Piencài replied, “I will go see him again and talk it over. In any case, I will do my utmost. Please, aunt, rest assured.”
Saying this, he stood up to take his leave, and Lady Yan, with tears, said, “You’ve taken much trouble on my behalf, and I won’t say anything more. Since that’s the case, please go today. If possible, sending a reply today would be even better.” Piencài agreed and then left. On his way out, he saw Ziyu. Although Ziyu was ill, he had not forgotten their previous interactions and pretended to be asleep, ignoring him.
Piencài briefly spoke with Yuanmao before leaving straight for the Hua residence, sitting in his room to think it over, but without any ideas. He then went to find Shanzhi, telling her everything Lady Yan had entrusted to him, adding a few words. He also mentioned, “I am a third-generation friend of this brother, and our Old Aunt Mei, having only this one very clever and well-mannered son, you should consider doing a good deed to help him. If you can cure this illness, I would be extremely grateful to you.” Shanzhi replied, “What can I do? I can only report to the young master as you say and let him go take a look.” Piencài quickly waved his hand, saying, “That won’t do. We both know the young master’s temperament. If we say it like that, not only will he refuse, but it will also look bad. We must think of another way.” Shanzhi said, “If you have a way, then do it. I don’t handle these matters.” Hearing this, Piencài bowed deeply, saying, “Good old third, good brother, if you can help with this matter, I will have my brother send you two pieces of new patterned fine gauze.” Shanzhi, persuaded by Piencài’s repeated requests and thinking of her own concerns, said, “Let him go tomorrow then. If asked, I have my own words to say, and I won’t mention you.” After hearing this, Piencài smiled broadly and bowed deeply in thanks. Seeing that it was still early, he took a carriage to see Lady Yan, putting on a distressed appearance, saying, “His master has agreed, but he demands two hundred silver pieces before he will call him out; he also said that once called out, it’s uncertain whether the residence will still want him. If he can’t enter the residence again, then it’s hard to negotiate. I’m afraid they will then demand the full two thousand four hundred silver pieces. From what I see, this person is really cunning and despicable. I gave him a severe scolding, and he became somewhat afraid, saying, ‘Whether he goes back in or not isn’t my concern, but the two hundred pieces right now are non-negotiable. Otherwise, why would I take this risk without any gain?’” Lady Yan, pained for her son, agreed to his terms, saying, “Have him come tomorrow, and just give him the two hundred silver pieces as he asks. We’ll deal with what comes after later.” Piencài, seeing his suggestion accepted, was very pleased. He took his leave, went to a silk shop, and picked up two pieces of fine gauze, sending them to Shanzhi the next day.
Certainly! Here is the English translation of the provided Chinese text, paragraph by paragraph:
“What do you mean by suggesting Shan Zhi without asking? Just half a month after Qin Yan arrived, even Lady Hua took a liking to him, frequently giving him gifts. She often remarked, ‘This child is honest and doesn’t seem like a typical opera singer.’ This made Shan Zhi feel jealous. She thought, ‘I’ve been here for over three years and considered top among us. He’s only been here a few days and is already so favored. He’s smart too; he might overshadow me in the future.’ With this in mind, she decided to find ways to undermine him. Today, hearing what Mr. Pin Cai said, she seized the opportunity and agreed to his plan, then went to Li Qing’s residence to inform Qin Yan. Hearing the news, Qin Yan’s eyes welled up with tears, and he asked, ‘Is Yu Xiang really that sick? Lin, can you really take me to see him? Do they truly want me to visit him?’
Shan Zhi replied, ‘Why would I deceive you without reason? Just be at ease: the young master won’t be down for half a day. Even if he calls for you, I’ll tell him you’ve gone to visit your sick master and will be back soon. If the young master doesn’t say anything, great; if he does, I’ll handle it. Just go, but make sure to return early. Besides, if you go today and manage to cure his illness, going a second time might be difficult.’ Qin Yan blushed and remained silent, but he felt very grateful to Shan Zhi. He relied entirely on her help since his arrival and appreciated her enabling him to visit Yu Xiang. He resolved not to forget her. After Shan Zhi left, Qin Yan pondered over everything and even his resentment towards Pin Cai faded, thinking that he owed this chance to him.”
“Nothing noteworthy happened that day, and Qin Yan eagerly awaited dawn. Fortunately, it was as if fate agreed; Young Master Hua wasn’t feeling well and stayed in his lady’s room, giving Qin Yan peace of mind. He quickly ate his meal and went to find Shan Zhi to ask, ‘How do I go out? I don’t know the way.’ Shan Zhi said, ‘Go out with Master Wei. They won’t dare to question you much; even if they do, it won’t reach the inside.’ Qin Yan had no choice but to reluctantly seek Pin Cai, who was pleased to see him but kept a cold face, saying, ‘Just go, but be careful. If this gets out, don’t say I went with you.’ Qin Yan agreed and left with Pin Cai, passing gates manned by some who recognized him and others who did not, but seeing him with Pin Cai, they dared not ask questions.”
“Once outside the gate, Pin Cai instructed Qin Yan to sit inside the carriage and lower the curtains, while he sat on the edge and Si’er at the back of the carriage. They quickly arrived at the Mei residence. Without waiting for an announcement, Pin Cai and Qin Yan went straight to the study. Xu Shun was surprised to see them but did not dare to stop them and followed them inside. Madame Yan was expecting them. Seeing Xu Shun, she seemed about to say something but then asked, ‘What’s the matter?’ Xu Shun replied, ‘Master Wei brought someone who looks like an opera singer. I had to report it.’ Madame Yan said, ‘I know, please invite them in.’ Xu Shun went to invite them, and soon Pin Cai entered with a 15- or 16-year-old child. At first glance, Madame Yan was startled, feeling as if she had seen him somewhere before, then suddenly remembering he resembled her future daughter-in-law, Qiong Gu. She was secretly amazed, thinking, ‘I often watch opera and have seen many young female roles dressed like women, but I never looked closely offstage. Now seeing Qin Yan, with his noble and elegant demeanor, he looks like a young lady of high birth. Even without the make-up, he looks like a scholarly gentleman, strikingly similar to my own son. Initially angry, she wanted to scold him, but seeing him now, she couldn’t help but smile.”
“When Qin Yan entered, he was deeply moved by Zi Yu’s severe illness, driven by emotions he couldn’t suppress, and was prepared for any consequences, even risking Madame Yan’s wrath. Moreover, Pin Cai had spoken of serious matters during the carriage ride, making Qin Yan nervous and cautious. Upon entering, he knelt and greeted the lady, then stood with his head bowed. Madame Yan beckoned him closer and scrutinized him again, then invited Pin Cai to sit. Madame Yan asked, ‘Where are you from? When did you come to the capital last year? How did you
meet our young master? How did you become friends? Tell me the truth, and I won’t make it difficult for you.’ Seeing the lady’s softened demeanor, Qin Yan felt slightly relieved and spoke a few words through tears, though not clearly. Knowing he was scared, she reassured him, ‘Don’t be afraid. It’s my son’s fault; he sought you out, not the other way around. Just relax, I won’t make it hard for you, but don’t be evasive, speak plainly.’ Qin Yan paused, then said, ‘I am from Suzhou, arrived in the capital last winter, and joined the Lian Jin Troupe. My parents passed away, and my aunt sold me. On the sixth of the first month this year, at the Suzhou Guild Hall, I performed opera for the first time before the young master. I don’t know why, but it felt like we had known each other before. On the Lantern Festival, I went to Yi Yuan, Mr. Xu’s house, to see the lanterns and riddles. I particularly liked the riddle ‘A solitary flower falls, twin swallows fly amidst light rain.’ Mr. Xu Xu placed a guqin as a prize for this riddle, saying he would invite the solver to meet you. That day, the young master solved it. A few days later, he invited the young master for drinks and had me serve. That was the first time we met. The second time was when Su Lan invited us for a canal tour; I accompanied them for half a day. These two occasions are the whole truth. If you don’t believe me, you can ask Master Wei. You must know that the young master went out,’ Qin Yan explained, tears streaming down his face. Pin Cai added, ‘These are true words; he indeed hasn’t seen the young master more than three times.’ Madame Yan, puzzled, stared at Qin Yan, feeling sympathy and wondering, ‘How could they have only met twice in six months?’ She then said, ‘Your words are certainly true, but the young master is constantly thinking of you; you must understand that yourself.’ Qin Yan replied, ‘Madame, with such kindness, how can I not tell the truth? It’s indeed strange; not only do I feel as if I had seen the young master before, but he also felt a familiarity upon seeing me, as if we were family. I can’t explain it either.’ Madame Yan laughed, ‘Hearing your story, it truly is strange; I can’t figure it out. But now, because of you, my son has become so ill; I called you here to comfort him, to help him recover. If you can do that, not only will I not blame you, but I will also reward you.’ Qin Yan, feeling even more distressed, tried not to cry but sobbed softly, his words unclear. Madame Yan, seeing his state, felt even more pity and invited Pin Cai and Qin Yan to Zi Yu’s room, sitting outside with Pin Cai to listen to their conversation and observe their interaction. Xu Shun had been standing until then, and only now understood the root of the young master’s illness; he followed them to the bedroom to listen closely. How Qin Yan would heal Zi Yu’s illness will be revealed in the next installment.”