話說琴言從子玉處回來，華公子雖未知其細底，但責其私行出府，殊屬不知規矩，姑念初犯，權且免責，把他撥在內室，這是裡外不通的所在。一日，獨坐在水晶山畔，對著幾叢鳳仙花垂淚，心中想到人生在世，不能立身揚名，作些事業，僅與那些皮相平人混在一堆，光陰易過，則與草木同朽。即如草木開了花，人人看得可愛，便折了下來，或插在瓶中，或簪於鬢上，一日半日間，便已枯萎，雖說是愛花，其實是害花了。譬如這一叢鳳仙種在此處，你偎我倚，如同胞手足一樣，有個自然的機趣，即有風吹雨打之時，不過一時磨折，究無損於根本。
若將他移動了根本，就養在金盆玉盎中，總失其本性。還有那些造作的，剪枝摘葉，繩拴線縛，拔草剝苔，合了人的眼睛，減卻花的顏色，何異將人拘禁束縛，叫他笑不敢笑，哭不敢哭。
再子細思量，人還有不如花處，今年開過了明年還開，若人則一年不似一年。即如我之落在風塵，憑人作踐，受盡了矯揉造作，嘗盡了辛苦酸甜，到將來被人厭惡的時候，就如花之落圂飄茵，沾泥帶水，無所歸結，想至此豈不痛殺人，恨殺人。一面想，一面滴下淚來。再想到庾香雖然病好，但我從前說了些謊話，若知我近日的光景，他不能來，我不能去，只怕舊病又要發了，那時再來叫我，恐怕也不能再去。思前想後，終日淒淒楚楚的。一日一日的挨去，光陰最快，轉眼已一月有餘，只見丹桂芬芳，香盈庭院。
此日是八月十二，華公子想起六月二十一日在怡園觀劇，說秋涼了請度香過來。因想十五日是家宴之辰，不便請客，即定於十四日，請子雲、次賢、文澤等，在西園中鋪設了幾處，並有燈戲。為他們是城外人，日間斷不能盡興，於下貼時說明了夜宴。此日正是秋試二場，劉文澤為什麼不應舉呢？這一科大主考即係文澤之父大宗伯劉守正，副主考係王文輝，已升了閣學，陸宗沅、楊芳猷、周錫爵、孫亮功一班可可的一齊分房，將那一班知名之士迴避了一大半。內中除徐子雲、史南湘是前科舉人，蕭次賢是高尚自居，無心問世，只有田春航、高品入場。如子玉、王恂、文澤、仲清等皆遵例迴避。子玉在家悶悶不樂，又因琴言杳無音信，內外隔絕，又不能傳遞消息，幾次要去訪問聘才，又因華府威嚴，豪奴氣燄。故而子玉不肯前去，只得靜坐書齋，悶坐而已。
且說十四日早，子雲與次賢商議道：「今日華公子請我作通宵之飲，且聞賞燈，他今日必有一番熱鬧局面，並聞五大名班合唱。」即傳家人分派跟班，檢點衣服什物，零星珍寶賞需等類。總管預備好了，交與家人點過，免得臨時短少。說著已到未初，當下二人早吃了早飯，穿了衣裳，上車一徑往華府來。 且說華公子親自往各處點綴了一番。這西園景致奇妙，雖不及怡園，然而精工華麗，卻亦相埒。不過地址窄小，只得怡園三分之一。園中有十二樓，從前聘才所到之西花廳，尚是進園第一處。從前華公爺一個好友叫作謝笠山，是個畫畫好手，與他佈置了十二年，卻是濃淡相宜，疏密得體。到華公子長成，心愛繁華，又把笠山手筆改了許多。如今是一味雕琢絢爛，竟不留一點樸素處。
是日張仲雨一早進來，先在聘才處吃了早飯，與張、顧諸人談笑了半天。到得午正時候，拉了聘才、林珊枝來逛西園。
仲雨從前也不過到過一兩處，聘才雖經遊過兩回，也未全到。
此園有一妙處，曲折層疊，貫通園中。地基見方二十畝，築開一池，名玉帶河，彎彎曲曲，共有六折，每折建一橋，共有六橋。池邊有長廓曲榭，迴護其間，前後照顧，側媚傍妍。也有小艇三五個在岸泊著。池邊一帶名為小蘇堤。園中有好些大樹、虯松、修竹。假山有兩種：一種小者用太湖石堆砌出來，嵌空玲瓏；一種高大的用黃石疊成，高至數丈，蒼藤綠苔，斑駁纏護，亭榭依之，花木襯之。撮要提綱，則水邊有山，山下即水，空隙處是屋，聯絡處是樹。有抬頭不見天處，有俯首不見地處。
當下仲雨、聘才二人，跟著珊枝，順著山路徑，高低斜曲，穿入一個神仙洞內。從左邊上去，幾樹丹桂，不到十餘步，至一帶曲廊，作凹字形，罘□輕幕，簾櫳半遮。珊枝引入看時，共是七間，兩楹如翼外張，中間平廈三間，後面玻璃大窗，逼近池畔。室中陳設華美，署名「歸鴻小渚」。下有小跋數行，是華公自敘親筆。二人賞鑒了一回，從右邊長廊西首小門走去，是一個小小院子，有幾堆靈石，幾棵芭蕉，見一個小座落，是一個楠木冰梅八角月亮門，進內橫接著雁齒扶梯。上得樓來，卻是四面雕窗，樓中擺著數十個書架，橫鋪疊架，擺得有門有戶，縹緗萬卷，芸香襲人。此樓有兩所，作丁字形，一所三層，一所兩層，俱是明窗面面，中間鎖著四個大櫥。下擺一長桌，寶鼎噴香，瓶花如笑。
當下三人略坐一坐，便從屏門後扶梯下來。接著一帶紅闌，闌下種著一排垂柳，前面幾樹梧桐。進得樓來卻甚精雅，壁上掛著數張瑤琴，古錦斑斕，五色絢彩；几案上擺些古銅彝鼎，卻無一點時俗氣。賞玩了一回，又走下來，四面俱敞，傍水臨池，室中不染一塵，几案桌椅盡用湘竹湊成，退光漆面。左右兩行修竹，幾處秋聲動人。闌前擺著一張棋桌，放著兩個洋漆棋盒，仲雨道：「此間頗為幽靜，卻洗盡繁華氣象。」珊枝道：「公子雖愛熱鬧，其實也喜清靜。」仲雨走下階來，沿池而行，渡過紅橋，對面一個白石平臺，雕欄如玉；上面三間平榭，垂了湘簾。進去一看，覺得一片晶光射目，寒侵肌膚，為夏間避暑之地。一切桌凳几案，盡是玻璃面子。兩旁兩架雲母屏風，中間一口大缸，一缸清水，養些大金魚在內，中放一座四尺多高一塊水晶山。此刻秋涼時候，已覺陰森逼人。走了出來，只聽的遠遠敲梆之聲。珊枝道：「此是傳人伺候，公子將出來，客將到了，恐怕有事，我先出去。」說罷便走了。仲雨也同了聘才出來，仍到東園，穿好了衣裳等候。
卻說華公子宴客，今日共有三處：日間在恩慶堂設宴觀戲。
酉戌二時，在西園小平山觀雜技。夜間在留青精舍演燈戲。華公子已冠帶出來，先在恩慶堂前候客。卻好蕭、徐、劉三客約會了同來，進了大門，下了車，裡頭另換肩輿抬進，直進了垂花門，到大廳下轎。華公子出迎敘禮。即開了中門，賓主四人，慢慢的走進來，又走了兩進，才是恩慶堂。蕭次賢是初次登堂，便留心觀望。這恩慶堂極為壯麗，崇輪巍奂，峻宇雕牆，鋪設得華美莊嚴，五色成彩。堂基深敞，中間靠外是三面闌干，上掛彩幔，下鋪絨毯，便是戲臺，兩邊退室通著戲房。賓主重新敘禮，將要坐時，魏聘才同著張仲雨出來。一一相見了禮，遂即敘齒坐下，講了些寒溫，獻過了三道茶。只見兩個六品服飾的，領著四個人上來，鋪設桌面，擺了兩席。戲房便作起樂來，隨後銀盤金碗，玉液瓊漿獻上來。華公子起身安席，子雲、文澤等推讓，欲要並作一席，也換個圓桌，華公子執定不肯，遂讓次賢首坐，文澤次之，那一桌子雲首坐，仲雨次之，聘才與自己作陪。
今日是五大名班合演，拿牙笏的上來叩頭請點戲，各人點了一齣，就依次而唱。衝場的無非是那幾出，看官也都知道，只得略了。主人讓酒，四客飲了幾杯，上過了幾樣肴饌，正是羅列著海錯山珍，說不盡腥濃肥脆。清談妙語，佐以詼諧。那邊席上，聘才問次賢怡園的光景。次賢略述了幾處。隨後即見寶珠、蕙芳、素蘭、漱芳、玉林、蘭保、桂保，春喜、琪官等九個，又湊上一個，作了一齣《秦淮河看花大會》，有幽閒的，有妖冶的，有靜婉的，有風流的，極盡靡豔之致，眾人盡皆喝采。子雲、次賢等就於此出中間放了賞。華公子對著笑道：「此係抄襲吾兄舊文，殊覺數見不鮮。」子雲道：「唱的甚好，貞靜的卻極貞靜，放浪的卻極放浪，沒有一人雷同。」文澤道：「這齣戲我倒沒有見他們唱過。」次賢道：「如今秦淮河也冷落了。就是從前馬湘蘭的相貌，也只中等，並有金蓮不稱之說。」子雲道：「湘蘭小像我卻見過，文采丰韻卻是有的。」聘才、仲雨也隨聲附和，講了一陣。華公子酒興便發起來，便勸諸人暢飲了幾杯。子雲留心今日不見琴言，便問道：「我聞得琴言近在尊府，今日何以不見？」華公子道：「這孩子脾氣雖有些古怪，卻還老實，如今派在內書房，少刻就出來的。」子雲又留心看去，卻又不見林珊枝與那八齡班，心內思想，今日如此盛舉，為何又不見這些人？難道都在戲房裡扮戲麼？這齣戲唱完了，華公子就傳十旦上來敬酒。眾人一齊上來，肥瘦纖濃，各極其妙。子雲看九人之外添了一個全福班的全貴，也很嬌嬈豔麗，風致動人。都請過了安，齊齊的手捧金杯，分頭敬酒。
蕙芳敬到子雲面前，子雲問起春航場中文字得意麼，蕙芳道：「前日史竹君說他的很好，是必中的。」文澤在那席聽了笑道：「我聽得你在家，天天的焚香禱告，湘帆就文章不佳，也是必要中的。」蕙芳笑道：「誰說的？中舉可以禱告得來，我倒願替眾人禱告了。」華公子問道：「你們說的什麼？」子雲正要回言，蕙芳忙斟了一杯酒來勸子雲，子雲被他纏住，卻不能說。華公子呆呆的看著蕙芳，等著子雲說來，文澤見了便道：「待我說罷。」蕙芳對著文澤丟了個眼色，這邊張仲雨笑道：「媚香，今日人多嘴雜，你就要掩人的口，也掩不住這許多。」蕙芳道：「要掩人口作什麼？我也沒有怕說的，你們愛說就說罷。」笑著走到那邊來敬文澤。那邊寶珠，華公子賞了一杯酒，他吃過謝了。華公子道：「今日這齣戲也唱得好，淡裝濃抹，各有所宜。」寶珠微笑不言，華公子即問蕙芳之事，寶珠笑道：「我不曉得。」華公子笑道：「你們自相衛護，這般可惡，將來總問得出來。」便又叫過蕙芳來，蕙芳只得過來，華公子道：「我是性急，又聽不得糊塗事。你有什麼隱情，定要瞞著我作什麼？」蕙芳低下頭說道：「公子別聽他們的話，他們是取笑我的。」子雲笑道：「媚香，你們的事，城外是全知道。就是城裡，只怕也有人知道的。何不說與公子聽聽呢？
「蕙芳道：「我有什麼說的？」仲雨忽然笑道：「你事急，就借著人作護身符，如今你又忘恩負義了。」說得眾人不解，蕙芳怔了一怔，臉上不覺紅起來。華公子看了，想起前日的話，動了些憐念，料有些隱情不好講，慢慢的問度香罷了，便倒把別的話支開。當下談笑間，飲了許多酒，戲唱過了好幾出，吃過了兩道點心。華公子起身道：「請到園中散散罷。」次賢、子雲道：「甚好，本來酒已多了。」諸客一同起身，就有四五個家人，急忙從廊下近路抄入，通知園門伺候。
卻說東西兩園，在正廳兩旁，處處有門戶通入。當下華公子引著眾人，即從遊廊內繞過了幾處庭院，又到一個迴廊，見壁間嵌著一塊祝枝山草書木刻，約有六尺多高。眾人正待看時，只見一個跟班的走來一推，卻是一扇門作成的，當面便是綠陰滿目，水聲潺潺。大家推讓進園，走過紅橋，是一個青石臺，三面也有白石短闌，支了一個小綠綢幔子。左邊是山石，土坡上有叢桂數十株；右邊是曲水灣環，沿邊竹樹蒙葺，隔斷眼界。
上面是三間小榭，內書」潭水房山」四字，卻極幽雅。
子雲等欲要坐下，華公子讓到裡面去，從屏後走進，便見一個所在，裡窄外寬，三面如扇面。綺窗雕▉□，中間用烏木、象牙、紫檀、黃楊作成極細的花樣。此中隔作五六處，前面不用簾子，是一帶碧紗櫳。眾人到閣前看時，底下是一道清溪，有兩個小畫舫泊著。對面也是水閣，卻通垂了湘簾。華公子就命在碧紗櫳前擺了一個長桌，室中焚了幾爐好香，獻上香茗。眾人坐了，正覺秋光如畫，清洗心脾。子雲偶回頭時，又只見珊枝同著琴言上來，對著子雲等請了安。子雲等忙招呼了。
子雲見了琴言，此時低眉垂首，不像從前高傲神氣。且隔了兩月，從前是朝親夕見的，如今倒像是相逢陌路，對面無言，未免有些感慨。即叫他走近，問了些話，要問起子玉來，卻又縮住。次賢、文澤也問了幾句。
當下眾人清談了好一回。已是申正時候，華公子便命擺了幾個果碟，幾樣小吃，小酌起來，又叫了群旦進來伺候。對面水閣上卻安放了一班十錦雜耍，便上起場來，說了好些笑話，作了一回像聲，又說了一回《龍圖公案》。次賢等不甚喜聽，便與群旦猜枚行令，彼此傳觴。華公子又叫了一檔變戲法兒的，耍了一回。堪堪月色將上，又撤了席，在園中散步了一回。便有十數對的紅燈籠前來引道，華公子與諸客都更了衣，隨著紅燈籠步出了園，仍從恩慶堂來，卻見明燈燦爛，霞彩雲蒸的一般。從屏後迤東而行，處處笙歌盈耳，燈彩如虹。進了一個月亮門，門前紮起一個五彩綢綾的大牌坊，掛著幾百盞玻璃畫花的燈，中間玻璃鑲成一匾，兩旁一副長聯。進了牌坊，月光之下，見庭心內八枝錫地照，打成各種花卉，花心裡都點著燈，射出火來，真覺火樹銀花一樣。前面又是一個燈棚，才到了戲臺，更為朗耀，兩廂清歌妙曲，蘭麝氤氳。對面就是留青精舍。
於是讓眾客進去，入了坐，主人定了席，重新開了戲，這番暢飲歡呼難以描寫。飲到二更，主客皆有醉意，便停了菜，換上果品，散坐一回。
忽見伺候的上來，說門上回話：說馮少爺來了，要進來。
華公子怔了一怔，道：「好，就請進來，卻無生客在此。」聘才道：「緣何三更半夜的才來？」華公子道：「想必關在城裡，無歇處了。」候了好一回，才聽得腳步聲，兩盞小明角燈引路，馮子佩搶步上前，與華公子見了禮，又與眾人相見了，卻也都為熟識。華公子即令其坐在聘才之上，將要問話，子佩便笑道：「好！如此熱鬧請客，卻不來叫我一聲，要我闖上門來。」劉文澤道：「恐怕你應酬忙。知道空閒，我早上就帶了你來了。」說得眾人笑了，子佩也不理會，便把那些個相公看了一看，即讓合席飲了兩杯酒，才又自己吃了幾箸菜。
華公子見他光景餓了，便問道：「你今日在何處？怎麼這時候才來？」子佩搖搖頭道：「不要說起。」才又吃了一塊蘋果，接著說道：「絕好一局，弄得不歡而散。」說到此，卻又懶說下去，華公子道：「為何不歡而散？你且說來。」子佩道：「今日和我妻舅歸自榮，同到他的妻舅烏大傻家替他嬸娘祝壽。」仲雨聽了要笑，子雲道：「有了烏大傻，自然就不妥了。」文澤點點頭道：「這套話倒必定可聽，快說罷。」子佩道：
「歸自榮並約了他小丈人，帶了那四個檔子。大傻也請了兩桌客，並些南邊朋友。」有幾個會串戲的在內，大家公議：「每人湊錢十弔，共得九十弔，遂叫了全福班演戲。歸自榮高興，與一個姓呂的串了一齣《獨佔》。」文澤道：「歸自榮本生得好，就是不該同小老婆另住在城外。聽說仍舊窘迫得很。」子佩丟個眼色，文澤不說了，蕭次賢冷笑一聲，聘才像要說話又不說。
子佩道：「他們愛串戲罷了，偏又拉上我。」華公子道：「不錯，你的戲是唱得最好的，我看比他們還強些。今日串的是什麼呢？」子佩道：「和別人串也好，偏偏大傻子死纏住了，要與他唱《活捉》。本來戲名就不吉利，大傻生得又呆又笨，種種不在行，難以盡述，看的人也不住的笑。正到進場的時候，我將帕子套住了他，忽然走進了一群人來，不論皂白，拿出刑部一張票子，給眾人瞧了瞧，就一條鏈子，把大傻子拉了出去。
裡頭奶奶們急得哭號起來。眾人不曉得是什麼緣故，欲待出去勸解，他們已經飛跑去了，沒頭沒腦的叫人怎樣，只得一哄而散。自榮是不能走的，還有大傻幾個至交在那裡，我便一直到這裡來。」眾人聽了也都稱奇，仲雨道：「我也猜著八分了。這事還是為著歸自榮起的，烏大傻不過聽了襯戲，吃了鑲邊酒，便替歸自榮擔了個苦海的干係。」馮子佩道：「我倒不知，你知是為著什麼？」仲雨道：「我也是猜測。我聽得人說：烏大傻子造了張假房契，替歸自榮借了六百吊錢，聽得借主知道了，要告他。我想一定是此事了。」馮子佩道：「有點像，錢是歸自榮與大傻兩個分用的，如今倒是烏大傻一人倒運了。」劉文澤道：「這個烏大傻子，也生得特奇，又呆又傻，倒是個戲癖。城外十個戲園，他每天必處處走到，一個園子裡至少也走個四五回。歪著肩膀，最可厭的是穿雙破皂靴，混混沌沌的走去走來。略有一面之交就斜著身子站住了，人又不留他，沒奈何又走過去。我不看戲便罷，若看戲必遇他的。」次賢笑道：「他也是我們浙江人，我看他書倒像念過的。」張仲雨道：「也不見得，我雖不懂文理，我見他那字就不成個樣子。」華公子道：「別講這些人，管他傻不傻。子佩你會唱戲，你何不上臺唱一齣，顯顯本領；況且多少賞鑒家都在此，或者巴結的上，於你有點好處。」子佩啐了一口道：「我又不是相公，要巴結誰？」徐子雲道：「誰又當你是相公？就是顧曲登場，也是風流自賞的事。況你具此美貌，不教人贊聲，豈不也冤枉煞了。」你一句，我一句，說得馮子佩有些活動，便道：「今日沒有伙計，唱不成的。」華公子道：「怎麼沒有？你就不和班裡人唱。」呶嘴道：「張老二，魏老大就很在行的。」仲雨搖頭道：「我不能，況且我只會幾套老生曲子，也配不上他。魏老大可以，不但小生，連二花面、三花面全能。」魏聘才只顧笑，也不招攬，也不推辭。徐子雲道：「這不用說了，就請魏兄與子佩一試，也是工力悉敵的。」聘才道：「只怕不對路，況且沒有請教過子佩怎麼樣？」華公子道：「這也不妨。關目腔調有不合處，預先對一對就是了。況且我這裡教曲的蘇州人也有好幾個，叫他們伺候場面就是了。」聘才道：「既如此，必須周三的笛子，秦九的鼓板方妙。」華公子便叫人傳了上來。在臺上伺候。聘才便自述所唱《折柳》、《獨佔》、《賞荷》、《小宴》、《琴挑》、《偷詩》等戲。子佩連連搖頭，原來卻有不會的，也有會而不熟的，便笑道：「我都不會，看來唱不成。」
聘才問道：「你會的是什麼？」子佩道：「我會的是：《前誘》、《後誘》、《反誑》、《挑簾》、《裁衣》等戲。」聘才笑道：「也不對，竟唱不來。」華公子身子後邊，站著幾個八齡班內的，有一個對林珊枝低低說道：「魏師爺何不唱《活捉》，前日不是見他唱過的？」華公子早已聽見，便向聘才道：「你何不同他唱《活捉》呢？」聘才尚要支吾，經不得眾人齊聲參贊，聘才只得依了。子佩笑道：「唱便唱，不要又鬧出刑部的案來，將魏老大鎖了去。」眾人都笑了。子佩頗覺欣然，便又故意遷延，經眾人催逼了一回，然後與聘才到後臺裝扮。聘才是精於此事，毫不怯場，不知馮子佩怎樣，先在後臺操演了關目，馮子佩倒也對路。但聽得手鑼響了幾下，馮子佩出來，幽怨可憐，喑嗚如泣，頗有輕雲隨足，淡煙抹袖之致。纖音搖曳，燈火為之不明。
眾人甚覺駭異，如不認識一般。華公子已離席，走到臺前，眾客亦皆站起靜看。華公子道：「奇怪！居然像個好婦人，今日倒要壓倒群英了。」子佩聽得眾人贊他，略有一分羞澀；又見徐子雲身旁站著蕙芳、寶珠，見蕙芳看看他，便湊著子雲講些話，又湊著寶珠講些話；又見寶珠微笑；又見劉文澤與蕭次賢站著，在一處彼此俯耳低言，大約是品評他的意思。原來文澤與蕙芳倒不是講馮子佩，倒講的是歸自榮。
這歸自榮原藉江西，寄籍直隸，也進了一名秀才。少年卻很生得標緻，今已二十七八歲了。生平闇昧之事甚多。家本豪富，其父曾為大商，幼年夤緣得中舉人，加捐了中書，現在本籍安享。自榮在京八年未歸，糟蹋了多少錢財。家中現有妻室，謊言斷弦，娶了烏大傻之妹。又不甚合意，又娶了葉茂林之女為副室，另居城南。葉女在家時，即不安本分，喜交遊，而自榮寵嬖特甚。奩資頗厚，被自榮亂為花費，不到兩年化為烏有。
夫妻兩個都是不耐貧苦的，未免交謫誚謗。葉女又鼓搔頭弄姿，倚門賣俏，那些舊交漸漸走動起來。自榮始雖氣忿，後圖銀錢趁手，便已安之，竟彰明昭著，當起忘八來，並僱了一個伙計在家。士林久已不齒，而自榮猶常常的口稱某給事為業師，某孝廉為課友，而一班無恥好色者，亦欲相為徵逐。歸自榮與葉女住宅，就與蕙芳相近，故蕙芳知之甚詳。劉文澤也去吃過酒的。但去吃酒的。自榮必要作主人相陪，故此有些人不願去。
張仲雨是更相熟的，就是聘才尚未知道。
華公子是不喜與聞這些事情，故不理會，只顧看子佩出神，忽叫斟大杯酒來。家人捧上一個大玉杯，華公子叫送到子雲面前。未知子雲飲與不飲，且聽下回分解。
Qinyin returned from Ziyu’s place, and although Master Hua did not know the details, he reproached Qinyin for leaving the estate without permission, which was a serious breach of decorum. Considering it was his first offense, he was spared punishment but confined to the inner chambers, a place cut off from the outside. One day, sitting alone by the Crystal Mountain, Qinyin wept in front of several clusters of impatiens, thinking about how life is fleeting and without achieving something noteworthy, one merely blends in with the superficial crowd, decaying like plants. Just like flowers that are plucked for their beauty, loved briefly in a vase or worn in the hair, they wilt soon after, and although it seems like a gesture of love, it actually harms the flowers. For example, these impatiens growing here naturally have their own charm, even when battered by wind and rain, it’s only temporary and doesn’t harm them fundamentally.
If you were to move these flowers from their natural setting, even if they were kept in golden pots, they would lose their essence. And those that are artificially maintained through pruning, tying, and cleaning, they might please the eye but at the cost of their natural beauty, much like confining a person, restricting their laughter and tears.
Upon further reflection, humans are at times lesser than flowers; flowers bloom annually without fail, whereas humans change year by year. Like myself, fallen into disrepute, subjected to manipulation and hardships, tasting both the bitter and the sweet. Eventually, when shunned by others, it feels as devastating as flowers falling into the mud, losing their luster without achieving anything—thinking of this is utterly heart-wrenching. As these thoughts and tears flowed, I also remembered Yu Xiang has recovered from illness, but if he knew about my recent conditions, unable to visit him or have him visit, it might trigger his illness again. And if he were to call for me then, I might not be able to go either. Thinking back and forth, I spent my days in profound sorrow, as days passed swiftly, over a month had gone by, the fragrant osmanthus bloomed, filling the courtyard with scent.
On the twelfth of August, Master Hua recalled the play he watched on the twenty-first of June at Yi Garden, and planned to invite Yu Xiang since the weather was cooler. Considering the family banquet on the fifteenth, he decided to hold the event on the fourteenth instead, inviting Ziyun, Ci Xian, and Wen Ze to set up several spots in the West Garden for a lantern show. Since they were from outside the city and couldn’t fully enjoy the daytime activities, he clarified that there would also be a night banquet. On this very day, the autumn exams were held, and Liu Wen Ze should have participated. The chief examiner was Wen Ze’s father, Liu Shouzheng, and the deputy was Wang Wenhui, now promoted. Lu Zongyuan, Yang Fangyou, Zhou Xijue, and Sun Lianggong, all notable scholars, were there, with many renowned individuals deliberately absent. Among them, Xu Ziyun, Shi Nanxiang who had previously participated in exams, and Xiao Ci Xian, who was aloof from worldly affairs, only Tian Chunhang and Gao Pin were present. Ziyu, being secluded and lacking any news from Qinyin, felt stifled and unable to send messages due to the strictness of the Hua household and the dominance of the servants. Thus, he preferred to stay quietly in his study, brooding alone.
On the morning of the fourteenth, Ziyun and Ci Xian discussed, “Today Master Hua has invited us for an all-night celebration, including enjoying the lanterns. It will surely be a lively affair with performances by five famous troupes.” They sent a servant to prepare clothes and other valuable items for the show. The steward made sure everything was ready, to avoid any last-minute shortages. By mid-morning, they had breakfast, dressed, and took a carriage to the Hua residence.
Master Hua himself had decorated the West Garden, which was marvelous though not as extensive as Yi Garden. It was only a third of its size but was exquisitely ornate. The garden had twelve buildings, the first being the West Flower Hall, where talent had previously been sought. A friend of old Master Hua, Xie Lishan, an excellent painter, had helped set up the place over twelve years, achieving a balance between density and openness. As Master Hua grew up fond of splendor, he altered much of Lishan’s work, resulting in a space of intricate design without a trace of simplicity.
On that day, Zhang Zhongyu came early in the morning, had breakfast at the talent’s place, and spent half the day chatting and laughing with Zhang, Gu, and others. At noon, he brought the talent and Lin Shan Zhi to tour the West Garden.
Zhongyu had been to the garden only once or twice before, and although the talent had visited a couple of times, he had not seen it all.
This garden was cleverly designed with winding paths throughout its twenty-acre foundation, which included a pond named Jade Belt River, with six zigzagging turns and a bridge at each turn. There were long, curved pavilions by the pond, providing comprehensive views. There were also a few small boats docked along the shore. The area was called Little Suzhou. The garden boasted large trees, twisted pines, and tall bamboos. There were two types of artificial hills: smaller ones made of Taihu rocks intricately arranged, and larger ones made of yellow stones reaching several meters high, covered in old vines and moss, complemented by pavilions and flowers. To summarize, where there was water, there were hills; where there were hills, there was water. Some spots were so enclosed that one could not see the sky, and some so secluded that one could not see the ground.
Zhongyu and the talent followed Shan Zhi along a mountain path, ascending and descending through a fairy cave. They emerged to see several osmanthus trees and soon reached a curved corridor shaped like a “C”, lightly covered by screens. Shan Zhi led them inside to see seven chambers, with the central three connected by large glass windows close to the pond. The rooms were luxuriously furnished, named “Return of the Swans.” Below was a small inscription by Master Hua himself. After admiring the place, they exited through a small door to the west of the long corridor into a small courtyard with spirit stones and banana trees, leading to an eight-angled nanmu door. They climbed a staircase to a tower surrounded by intricately carved windows, containing dozens of bookshelves, well-organized with numerous volumes, emitting a fragrant literary aroma. This tower was designed in a “T” shape, with one section having three floors and the other two, all with clear windows and locked large cabinets. Below, a long table held a precious incense burner and vases like smiling flowers.
The three of them sat briefly, then descended the stairs behind a screen. They came to a red railing with a row of weeping willows in front and several parasol trees. Entering the elegant building, the walls hung with ancient zithers and colorful old brocades; the tables displayed ancient bronze vessels, untouched by modern vulgarity. After admiring these, they walked down to an open area by the pond, where the room was immaculately clean, and the furniture was made of polished bamboo. Bamboo lined both sides, and the area resonated with the sounds of autumn. In front of the railing, there was a chess table with two lacquered chess boxes. Zhongyu remarked, “This place is very serene, completely free from ostentation.” Shan Zhi replied, “Although the master enjoys lively events, he also appreciates tranquility.” They descended the steps and walked along the pond, crossing a red bridge to a white stone platform with a three-chambered pavilion draped with Xiang curtains. Inside, they were struck by the bright reflections and coolness, an ideal spot for summer relaxation. The furniture was all glass-topped, with two mica screens on the sides and a large tub of clear water in the middle, housing big goldfish and a four-foot-tall crystal mountain. Now, in the cool autumn, the atmosphere was chillingly eerie. They walked out, hearing the distant sound of a gong. Shan Zhi said, “The master will be coming out soon, and guests are arriving; there might be something urgent, so I’ll go ahead.” Saying this, she left. Zhongyu and the talent also left, went to the east garden, got dressed, and waited.
It so happens that Young Master Hua is hosting guests today, and there are three separate events scheduled: daytime feasting and watching plays at Enqing Hall.
At the hour of youshu (approximately 5-7 PM), they watched acrobatics at Xiaoping Mountain in the western garden. At night, lantern plays were performed at the Liuying Retreat. Young Master Hua, dressed in formal attire, was already waiting for guests in front of Enqing Hall. Fortunately, Xia, Xu, and Liu—three guests—had arranged to arrive together. They entered the main gate, alighted from their carriages, and were carried in sedan chairs to the Chuihua Gate and then to the main hall. Young Master Hua came out to greet them and exchange pleasantries. After opening the central door, the host and his guests walked slowly inside, passing through two halls before reaching Enqing Hall. Xia Cixian, visiting for the first time, was keenly observing everything. The hall was magnificent, with lofty and elaborately carved walls, and beautifully solemn decorations in five colors. The base of the hall was spacious, with three sides featuring balustrades, colored curtains hanging above, and carpets below forming the stage. Flanking rooms connected to the stage. After the host and guests exchanged greetings again, just as they were about to sit, Wei Pin and Zhang Zhongyu appeared. They exchanged formal greetings and then sat down, discussed the weather briefly, and were served tea three times. Soon, two officials in sixth rank attire led four servants to set the table, preparing two seatings. As the musicians began to play, dishes and drinks of exquisite quality were served. Young Master Hua stood to settle the seating, Zi Yun, Wen Ze, and others modestly tried to sit together at one round table, but Young Master Hua insisted on separate seating, thus Cixian was seated first at one table, followed by Wen Ze, while Zi Yun and Zhongyu headed the other table, with Wei Pin accompanying them.
Today, the entertainment featured five renowned troupes performing together. The performer with the jade tablet came forward to kowtow and ask for the play selections, and each guest chose one play to be performed in sequence. The plays that opened the performance are well-known, so we need not dwell on them here. The host offered toasts, and the four guests drank several glasses, partook of various dishes, enjoying a selection that included both exotic and delicately flavored delicacies. The conversation was light and witty. At the other table, Wei Pin inquired about the current state of Cixian’s Yi Garden, and Cixian gave a brief description. Soon after, Baozhu, Huifang, Sulan, Shuangfang, Yulin, Lanbao, Guibao, Chunxi, and Qiguan—nine performers in total, plus one more making a play called “The Great Flower Viewing at Qinhuai River,” displaying characters that were serene, enchanting, gentle, and flirtatious, achieving the ultimate in beauty and charm. Everyone applauded enthusiastically. Zi Yun and Cixian then handed out rewards during the intermission. Young Master Hua jokingly remarked, “This is but a rehash of my brother’s old writings, quite commonplace.” Zi Yun responded, “The singing is excellent; those meant to be virtuous are exactly that, and those meant to be wanton are utterly so, with no two characters alike.” Wen Ze said, “I haven’t seen this play performed by them before.” Cixian noted, “The Qinhuai River has declined now. Even the famed Ma Xianglan was only of average beauty, and there are those who say she did not compare to Jinlian.” Zi Yun added, “I have seen a small portrait of Xianglan; she indeed had literary grace and charm.” Wei Pin and Zhongyu echoed these sentiments, and the conversation continued for a while. Young Master Hua, feeling the wine’s effects, encouraged everyone to drink liberally. Zi Yun, noting the absence of Qin Yan, asked, “I heard that Qin Yan has been staying at your estate recently, why do we not see him today?” Young Master Hua replied, “The boy is somewhat eccentric but honest. He is currently assigned to the inner study and should be out shortly.” Zi Yun looked around but did not see Lin Shan Zhi or the Baling troupe, wondering why they were missing from such a grand event. Could they possibly be in the theatre, playing roles? After this play concluded, Young Master Hua called for the performers to come forward and offer a toast. The performers, varying in stature and attractiveness, each in their own way charming, came forward. After greetings, they each held a gold cup and offered toasts individually.
Huifang approached Zi Yun and asked how his recent writings had fared at
the spring literary exam, to which she replied, “The other day, Shi Zhujun said his work was excellent and sure to pass.” Wen Ze, overhearing this at the other table, laughed and said, “I hear you’ve been praying daily at home, saying that even if Xiang Fan’s writing isn’t good, he’s bound to pass.” Huifang laughed and responded, “Who said that? If passing the exam could be achieved through prayer, I’d be glad to pray for everyone.” Young Master Hua asked, “What are you all talking about?” Just as Zi Yun was about to reply, Huifan quickly poured him another drink, preventing him from speaking. Young Master Hua, looking puzzled, waited for Zi Yun’s explanation, but Wen Ze interjected, “Let me explain.” Huifang gave Wen Ze a look, and Zhang Zhongyu, laughing, added, “Meixiang, with so many people around today, even if you try to silence them, you can’t stop everyone from speaking.” Huifan responded, “Why try to silence them? I’m not afraid of what they say. Let them talk if they wish.” She then walked over to toast Wen Ze. Meanwhile, Baozhu, having received a toast from Young Master Hua and thanked him, listened as he commented, “Today’s performance was also well done, with each actor’s makeup and demeanor fitting their role.” Baozhu smiled quietly, not responding. Young Master Hua then asked about Huifang’s earlier conversation, to which Baozhu replied, “I don’t know.” Young Master Hua laughed, “You all cover for each other so well, but eventually, everything will come out.” He then called Huifang over, who reluctantly approached. Young Master Hua said, “I am impatient by nature and cannot stand unclear matters. If you have something to hide, why keep it from me?” Huifan bowed her head and said, “Young Master, don’t listen to them; they are just teasing me.” Zi Yun laughed, “Meixiang, everyone outside the city knows about your affairs. Even those within the city must know something. Why not share it with the Young Master?”
Huifan responded, “What is there to say?” Suddenly, Zhongyu laughed, “When things get tough, you use others as a protective talisman, and now you’re ungrateful.” This comment puzzled everyone, and Huifan paused, her face reddening. Young Master Hua, recalling a previous conversation and feeling some compassion, guessed there might be some hidden issues she was reluctant to discuss. He tactfully shifted the conversation to other topics. During this light-hearted chat, they drank a lot, watched several more plays, and enjoyed a couple of snacks. Young Master Hida then suggested, “Let’s go to the garden for a stroll.” Cixian and Zi Yun agreed, “That’s a great idea, especially since we’ve had quite a bit to drink.” The guests all stood up, and several servants quickly took a shortcut through the corridor to prepare the garden gates.
The gardens, located on either side of the main hall, were accessible through various doors. Leading the guests, Young Master Hua guided them through several courtyards and a circular gallery, where they saw a six-foot-tall wooden carving of calligraphy by Zhu Zhi Shan embedded in the wall. Just as they were about to examine it, a servant pushed through what appeared to be a door, revealing a lush green view with the soothing sound of water. They courteously entered the garden, crossing a red bridge to a green stone platform with three sides enclosed by short white balustrades, topped with a small green silk curtain. To the left were rocky mounds with clusters of osmanthus trees, and to the right, a curved water channel surrounded by bamboo, creating a secluded atmosphere.
Above them was a small pavilion, elegantly inscribed with the words “Room of Mountain and Water.” Zi Yun and the others were about to sit when Young Master Hua invited them further inside. They passed behind a screen and entered a space that was narrow on the inside and wide on the outside, shaped like a fan. The intricate window carvings, made from ebony, ivory, rosewood, and boxwood, divided the area into five or six sections. The front was open, protected only by a stretch of green gauze. As they approached the pavilion, they saw below them a clear stream with two small painted boats moored opposite another water pavilion, curtained with hanging silks. Young Master Hua arranged for a long table to be set in front of the green gauze, where several good incenses were burned, and fragrant tea was offered. As they sat, the autumn scenery, refreshing and picturesque, cleansed their spirits. Zi Yun, turning his head, saw Shan Zhi and Qin Yan approaching, who
then greeted him and the others, who promptly returned their greetings.
Zi Yun noticed that Qin Yan, usually proud and aloof, now appeared subdued and less confident, almost as if they were strangers meeting on a road, which made him feel somewhat melancholic. He called Qin Yan closer and engaged in a brief conversation, initially wanting to ask about Zi Yu but then hesitating. Cixian and Wen Ze also exchanged a few words with him.
The group enjoyed a lengthy and pleasant chat. It was now around the hour of shen (3-5 PM), and Young Master Hua ordered a few fruit plates and snacks to be served, and they began to drink lightly again. He then called for the performers to attend to them. Across the water, a troupe performed a variety of acts, including comedy, mimicry, and a segment from “The Dragon Diagram Case.” Cixian and the others, not particularly enjoying the performance, played a guessing game with the performers, passing drinks among themselves. Young Master Hua also called for a magician, who entertained them for a while. As the moon began to rise, they cleared the tables and took a walk in the garden. Soon, numerous pairs of red lanterns appeared to guide their way. Young Master Hua and the guests changed their clothes and followed the lanterns out of the garden, returning through Enqing Hall, which was now brightly illuminated, resembling a scene of glowing clouds and colorful lights. They proceeded eastward behind the screen, with music and singing filling the air and lantern lights like rainbows. They entered through a moon gate, where a colorful silk archway was set up, adorned with several hundred glass lanterns, the glass arranged to form a plaque with a pair of long couplets on either side. Passing through the archway under the moonlight, they saw eight silver candlesticks illuminating various flower shapes, with each flower’s center lit, casting a fiery glow, creating an effect like fiery trees and silver flowers. Ahead was another lantern tent, and as they reached the stage, the area was even more brilliantly lit, with delicate songs and the scent of orchids filling the air. Opposite was the Liuyin Retreat.
The hosts ushered the guests in, and after everyone was seated, the host arranged the seats and restarted the performance. The merry drinking and cheering that followed were indescribable. By the second watch of the night, both the hosts and the guests were tipsy, so they stopped serving dishes and switched to fruits, taking a break to sit around.
Suddenly, a servant came up and relayed a message from the door: Young Master Feng had arrived and wished to enter. Master Hua was momentarily stunned and then said, “Alright, let him in. We have no strangers here.” Pincai asked, “Why has he come at such a late hour?” Master Hua replied, “He must have been locked in the city and found nowhere else to stay.” After waiting a while, they heard footsteps, and two small bright lanterns led the way. Feng Zipai quickly stepped forward, exchanged greetings with Master Hua, and then greeted everyone else, all of whom he knew well. Master Hua immediately invited him to sit above Pincai and was about to ask him questions when Zipai joked, “How lively! Inviting guests and not even telling me, making me crash the party.” Liu Wenzhe said, “I feared you were busy. If I knew you were free, I would have brought you along earlier.” This made everyone laugh, and Zipai, ignoring it, glanced at the young scholars and then joined them in drinking a couple of cups of wine before helping himself to some dishes.
Seeing that he was hungry, Master Hua asked, “Where have you been today? Why have you come only now?” Zipai shook his head and said, “Don’t even mention it.” He then ate an apple slice and continued, “It was a perfect gathering, but it ended unpleasantly.” Upon saying this, he hesitated to continue, but Master Hua urged, “Why did it end unpleasantly? Tell us.” Zipai replied, “Today, I and my uncle by marriage, Gui Zirong, went to his uncle-in-law Wu Dashao’s house to celebrate his aunt’s birthday.” Zhong Yu started to laugh, and Zi Yun commented, “With Wu Dashao involved, it naturally went awry.” Wenzhe nodded and said, “This sounds like an interesting story, please continue.” Zipai continued:
“Gui Zirong also brought his father-in-law and four other men. Dashao invited two tables of guests, including some friends from the south.” Some guests who were familiar with theater chimed in, “Everyone chipped in ten strings of cash, totaling ninety, and hired the Quanfu troupe to perform a play. Zirong was delighted and even performed a duet with a Mr. Lu in the play ‘Sole Possession.’” Wenzhe added, “Zirong has a natural talent, though it’s a shame he lives separately from his concubine outside the city. I hear he’s still struggling financially.” Zipai gave Wenzhe a look, and he stopped talking, while Xiao Cixian scoffed, and Pincai looked as if he wanted to say something but refrained.
Zipai said, “They love to meddle in plays, and somehow they dragged me into it.” Master Hua responded, “Indeed, you perform the best among them, even better than they do. What play did you perform today?” Zipai replied, “I was fine with performing with others, but Dashao stubbornly clung to me, insisting on performing ‘Captured Alive’ with him. The title itself is ominous, and Dashao, being both dull and clumsy, performed poorly, making it difficult to describe how the audience laughed. Just as I was about to make my entrance, I had just wrapped my scarf around him when suddenly a group of people walked in. Without discerning the situation, they showed everyone an official document from the Ministry of Justice and shackled Dashao, pulling him away.
Inside, the grandmothers were so distressed they began to cry. The guests, not understanding what was happening and wanting to intervene, found themselves unable to as the group had already run off, leaving everyone confused and forcing the event to disperse. Zirong couldn’t leave as he still had close friends there, so I came straight here.” Everyone found the story remarkable, and Zhong Yu said, “I guessed as much. This must have started because of Zirong. Wu Dashao was merely complementing the play, indulging in the celebration, but ended up shouldering the burden for Zirong.” Zipai replied, “I didn’t know; you knew it was for what?” Zhong Yu said, “It’s just a guess. I heard that Wu Dashao forged a house deed to help Zirong borrow six hundred strings of cash. When the lender found out, he wanted to sue. I’m sure it was because of this.” Zipai noted, “It sounds likely. The
money was meant to be split between Zirong and Dashao, but now it seems Wu Dashao is the unlucky one.” Wenzhe added, “This Wu Dashao is a peculiar character; both dull and foolish, yet he’s obsessed with theater. There are ten theaters outside the city, and he visits each one daily, walking in and out at least four or five times in each. Leaning his shoulder, wearing worn-out soap boots, he ambles about most annoyingly. If he recognizes someone, he stops and leans towards them, but people don’t keep him around, so he just moves on. If I weren’t watching the plays, I wouldn’t see him, but if I am, I inevitably run into him.” Cixian laughed, “He’s also from our Zhejiang, and he seems educated.” Zhang Zhongyu countered, “Not necessarily; I’m not literate, but his writing is barely legible.” Master Hua suggested, “Let’s not talk about these people, whether they are foolish or not. Zipai, you can sing opera; why don’t you perform a play to showcase your skills? Besides, there are many connoisseurs here who might take a liking to you, which could be to your advantage.” Zipai spat and retorted, “I’m not a courtesan; whom should I flatter?” Xu Ziyun said, “Who considers you a courtesan? Even if Gu Qu sang on stage, it would be for his own pleasure. Besides, with your good looks, it would be a shame not to receive some compliments.” This exchange stirred Zipai, who then said, “Without a partner, I can’t perform today.” Master Hua objected, “Why not? You don’t need to perform with your regular troupe.” He muttered, “Zhang Lao’er, Wei Lao’da are quite skilled.” Zhongyu shook his head, “I can’t; besides, I only know a few old man tunes, which wouldn’t suit him. Wei Lao’da could do it; he’s skilled not only in young male roles but also in secondary and tertiary painted face roles.” Wei Pincai just smiled, neither volunteering nor refusing. Xu Ziyun suggested, “Let’s not debate this. Why not let Brother Wei try with Zipai? They are evenly matched in skill.” Pincai said, “It might not work out; besides, I haven’t consulted with Zipai on this.” Master Hua reassured, “That’s no problem. If the musical styles don’t match, they can rehearse together beforehand. Plus, I have several teachers from Suzhou here to help manage the stage.” Pincai agreed, “In that case, we need Zhou San’s flute and Qin Jiu’s drumbeats for the best effect.” Master Hua then called for someone to bring them up to the stage. Pincai then recited the plays he knew, “Breaking the Willow,” “Sole Possession,” “Admiring the Lotus,” “Small Banquet,” “Lute Challenge,” “Stealing Poetry,” etc. Zipai shook his head repeatedly, indicating there were some he didn’t know and others he wasn’t familiar with, and laughed, “I don’t know any of these; it seems I can’t perform.”
Pincai asked, “What do you know?” Zipai replied, “I know ‘The First Temptation,’ ‘The Second Temptation,’ ‘Counter Deception,’ ‘Raising the Curtain,’ ‘Cutting Clothes,’ etc.” Pincai chuckled, “Those don’t match either; it seems you really can’t perform.” Several young actors from the Baoling troupe were standing behind, and one of them whispered to Lin Shanzhi, “Why doesn’t Master Wei perform ‘Captured Alive’? Didn’t we see him do it just the other day?” Master Hua had already heard and turned to Pincai, “Why don’t you perform ‘Captured Alive’ with him?” Pincai was still hesitating, but could not withstand the unanimous encouragement from everyone, and finally agreed. Zipai laughed, “If we’re going to perform, let’s not end up with a Ministry of Justice case, getting Master Wei locked up.” Everyone laughed. Zipai seemed pleased and then deliberately delayed as the crowd urged him on. After some time, he and Pincai went backstage to get ready. Pincai was skilled in these matters and not stage-shy at all, but it was unknown how Zipai would fare. They practiced their roles backstage, and Zipai seemed to match well. Just as the hand gongs sounded a few times, Zipai came out, his performance was mournful and pitiable, with a voice as soft as a whisper, showing a flair of light clouds following the feet and faint smoke brushing the sleeves. His voice was delicate and wavering, making the lights dimmer with its subtlety.
The audience was shocked
, as if they didn’t recognize him. Master Hua had left his seat and walked to the front of the stage, and the other guests also stood up to watch quietly. Master Hua exclaimed, “Amazing! He looks like a virtuous woman, and today he seems set to outshine everyone.” Hearing the crowd praise him, Zipai felt a bit bashful; he saw Xu Ziyun talking to both Huifang and Baozhu, moving from one to the other, and noticed Baozhu smiling. He also saw Liu Wenzhe and Xiao Cixian standing together, whispering to each other, likely critiquing his performance. It turned out that Wenzhe and Huifang were not discussing Zipai, but rather Gui Zirong.
This Gui Zirong, originally from Jiangxi and registered in Zhili, had also become a scholar. Although young, he was quite handsome, now in his late twenties. He had many shady dealings in his life. Coming from a wealthy family, his father had been a major merchant. In his youth, he managed to become an imperial scholar through connections, and later contributed enough to be recorded in the central registry, now enjoying a comfortable life back home. Zirong had been squandering money in the capital for eight years without returning home. He had a wife at home, but their relationship was strained, so he married the sister of Wu Dashao as a secondary wife, settling in the south of the city. The woman, Miss Ye, was unruly at home, fond of socializing, and deeply favored by Zirong. She brought a significant dowry, which Zirong quickly spent within two years.
The couple was not accustomed to hardship, inevitably leading to criticism and slander. Miss Ye, flirtatious and prone to attracting attention, gradually resumed contact with old acquaintances. Although Zirong was initially outraged, he eventually tolerated it for the sake of money, openly flaunting his disregard for conventional morality and even employing a manager at home. The literati had long disdained him, yet Zirong still often boasted of his connections with certain government examiners and scholars, while a group of shameless, lecherous men also sought to associate with him. Zirong and Miss Ye’s residence was close to Huifang’s, hence she knew much about their affairs. Wenzhe had also attended their banquets. But those who went to these banquets were expected to play the host, which made some people reluctant to attend.
Zhongyu was more familiar with these matters, though Pincai was not yet aware.
Master Haidu was uninterested in hearing about these issues and instead was captivated by Zipai’s entrancing performance, suddenly calling for a large cup of wine to be brought. A servant presented a big jade cup, which Master Hua sent to Ziyun. Whether Ziyun drank it or not, we’ll find out in the next installment.