話說史給事放了大名道，南湘隨任同行，且到明年會試再來。諸名士、名旦送行，又敘了幾日。光陰甚快，不覺又到臘月中旬。且說子玉因南湘、高品出京，又少了兩個知己。前月王閣學來對顏夫人說，不是冬底，就是春初，要與子玉畢姻。
顏夫人回說不好專主，須寄信到江西，俟其回信轉來，再為定奪，子玉因此連王宅也不大去了。徐子雲近日補了缺，衙門中添了些公事，不能天天在園。
是日天氣晴和，雪消風靜，子玉欲訪聘才，打探琴言消息。
早飯後稟過萱堂，乘輿進城，行不到半里，心裡忽又躊躇起來，料聘才也未必在家，越想越不高興，便說：「不去了，出城回去罷！」雲兒勒轉馬頭，趕車的倒轉車來，出了城，忽然有幾輛車塞滿了路，還有一群駱駝擠在裡頭。眾趕車的喧喧嚷嚷，開讓不來。子玉的車下了簾子，與一個車相並，子玉從玻璃窗內一望，卻好那人也轉過臉來望他，原來是寶珠。子玉見了，不覺一笑，寶珠問道：「你從那裡來？還到那裡去？」子玉道：「我從城裡回來，不到那裡去了。」寶珠道：「何不到我寓裡談談，我們也有兩月不見了。」子玉一想回去尚早，也可借此散散，便道：「甚好！」一邊車已走開，子玉在前，寶珠在後，同到了門口，下了車，寶珠讓進了裡面。
子玉尚是初次進來，到了內院，見正面上房三間，西間便是書齋，上懸一額是「小瑯▉室」。子玉進內，覺得芳香撲鼻，不染點塵，有兩盆水仙花已開足。桌上擺一個古銅瓶，插一枝天竹，兩枝臘梅，那邊還有兩盆唐花。壁上所掛字畫，皆是前人名跡，絕非世俗紗帽之作。又見一個小地罩內，左邊掛一個橫幅，是寶珠自己的倚竹圖小照，右邊掛著四幅小屏，是教他畫畫的那個金粟畫的花卉。子玉看了，不禁一歎，說道：「天下事真是有幸有不幸。你看此等名士，竟遭此劫，天之妒才果如是耶！」因向寶珠道：「我聽見人說，你之待此公，與此公之待你，亦不亞於蕙芳之待湘帆。且你於此公失意後，更覺親密，一切旅費悉賴你周全。此等居心，尤為難得，真令世俗衣冠中人愧煞。此公亦甚知感激。」子玉一面說話，但見寶珠默默無言，眼眶一紅，長歎一聲，道：「同是天涯淪落人，相逢何必曾相識。」不禁落下淚來。子玉因無意中數語，竟觸動寶珠心事，自覺出言唐突，忙指著窗外之竹，笑道：「當歲寒時節，將此君與唐花較量，方見其瀟灑自然，節同松柏。」寶珠聞之，又破涕成笑，子玉方覺放心，因又道：「不覺日子這麼快，轉眼又是年底了，真是流年如水。」寶珠道：「可不是麼，本來離年近了。前日我聽得劍潭講，一過年你就要恭喜了，可請我們吃喜酒麼？」子玉道：「還沒有定，等老人家家信回來再看。」寶珠道：「今日我倒得了兩樣菜，不曉得你肯賞臉在這裡吃飯麼？若肯在這裡吃飯，我便約了香畹來，大家敘敘。」
子玉躊躇道：「若吃飯回去就遲了。前日這麼大雪，你想必積了些雪水，我們何不煮雪烹茶，請了香畹來作個清談雅會，不好嗎？」寶珠笑道：「很好，到底你總與別人不同。」一面著人去邀素蘭，一面吩咐把火盆抬到外間去，將茶爐搬過來，並搬出全副茶具。子玉見地上先放了一個大銅盤，後將一個古銅茶爐座在盤內。那爐約有一尺多高，身圓如斗，下有鼎足，爐身兩孔，爐口圓小，從火盆內夾了些燄炭，又加上些生炭，便見一爐活火直燃起來。又一人捧過一個蔚藍大磁甌，又把個宜興窯提梁刻字大壺，盛了雪水。子玉見了，頗覺欣羨，便說道：「尚未煮茶，見了這一副茶具，已令人清心解渴了。」說話間，素蘭已到，大家見了。素蘭對寶珠笑道：「今日你如此之雅，一定是為雅人來了。但添了我這個俗人，不要把雅事鬧俗了麼？」寶珠道：「你也就雅極的了。」素蘭問子玉道：「近來何以足不出戶，可曾會過玉儂麼？」子玉道：「沒有。玉儂此刻如何能出來？倒不料他安身立命竟在那一處了。」寶珠笑道：「恐怕那處還不是玉儂安身立命處。玉儂之志，豈肯長受委屈的？」子玉道：「我聽得待他甚好，有甚委屈處？」寶珠道：「好原好，但華公子那人究竟不能十分體貼人的。度香這麼樣待玉儂，尚不能得玉儂歡心，那邊能如度香這麼樣麼？
局面就是兩樣，那處是步步不離規矩的，閒散慣的人也是不便的。八月十四那一天，我看玉儂出來伺候，就是勉強，叫作沒有法就是了。」素蘭道：「如今見了我們也是生生的，覺得心上總是憂鬱不開的光景。」子玉聽了，不禁歎了一聲。寶珠見水開了，自己於博古廚內取出一個玉茶缸，配了四種名茶，自己親手泡好了，把蓋子蓋上。又取出三個粉定茶杯，分作三杯，又將開水添滿茶缸，仍舊蓋了。子玉道：「要你親手自製，倒累了。」寶珠道：「你們嚐嚐，這茶味可好麼？」子玉與素蘭喝了兩口，覺得清香滿口，泌入心脾，都說道：「這茶好極，而且不像一種茶味。」寶珠道：「我將各樣好茶，並成一碗的。」子玉道：「怪不得香美如此。」寶珠又捧上一個果盒來，聊以侑茶。子玉道：「倒比酒好。」三人閒談了一會，素蘭問子玉道：「近日你可見你那世交魏聘才麼？」子玉道：「也有兩月不見了。我今日倒特特要去看他。已經進了城，我想他是常在外邊的，忽然不高興起來，所以轉回，恰才遇見瑤卿。」寶珠橫波一笑道：「你錯了，該去的。就使聘才不在家，你那心裡人是不出門的，他知道你去，必出來見的。」子玉不語。素蘭道：「你不曉得魏聘才近日的事吧？」子玉道：「什麼事？」素蘭笑道：「這魏聘才從前指使人去鬧玉儂，我心上極恨他。及至玉儂進去了，倒也不見怎樣。我看其人也不算個大惡，不過是個小人意見。殊不知他從前會糟蹋人，如今也受人糟蹋起來，而且以後還沒臉見人。」子玉聽了十分詫異，忙問道：「有何難見人的事？」寶珠尚未知道，也問何事。素蘭道：「魏聘才原不好，但如今交朋友也真難，人面獸心的多。你們真不知魏聘才宿娼，被坊官拿住送交刑部麼？」子玉吃了一驚，道：「有這等事！怎麼就送刑部呢？」素蘭道：「我是聽得張仲雨講的。如今仲雨是正指揮，所以知道這事，已有四五天了。
那一日魏聘才請富三爺在蓉官寓裡喝酒，富三爺想起一件事來，先進城去了。聘才便不進城，叫蓉官去叫了一個媳婦，名叫玉天仙，就借蓉官寓裡過夜。將近二更，尚在那裡喝酒唱曲。有個吏目郁泰孫來查夜，走了進來，與聘才認識的，且同過席聽過戲的。聘才見是郁吏目，便放了心，讓他入座，吏目不肯，聘才便與他頑笑起來。那吏目即變轉臉來道：『老魏，今日講不得頑笑，你可知道公事公辦麼？』聘才還當他是頑笑，便也說道：『什麼公事私事，你別把坊官擺在臉上，就是都老爺挾妓飲酒也是常有的。快坐下罷。』一面又扯他。那吏目哼了一聲，說道：『不要說是你，今日我來查夜，就是我們總憲坐在這裡，我也拿得他。』話才說完，有幾個兵役就拿鏈子出來，套上聘才，往外就拉。又有兩個，一個鎖了蓉官，一個鎖了玉天仙。可憐魏聘才斬新的一身衣服，被他們拴在車尾子上，跟著跑。到了吏目寓處，鐵面無私的訊起來。幸虧魏聘才的下人找了一個書辦，講了一千六百弔，寫了字據，找了舖保，方開開鎖。作了一套假供，魏聘才為李三才，今日蓉官留住吃飯，適逢蓉官出嫁之姊回家看弟，並無同桌吃酒，以致男女混雜。
訊明是實，相應開釋等情。」子玉道：「這已算明白了，怎麼又送部呢？」素蘭道：「聞說有位巡城都老爺，訪得吏目詐贓，改供私放，把這案提上去，送了刑部。」寶珠道：「如今魏聘才是在監裡了？應該，應該。但華公子怎麼不替他料理呢？」
素蘭道：「據仲雨講，是瞞著華公子，況且又是個假名假姓。大約臉總丟了，也不至有什麼大罪。又聽說魏聘才新捐了一個從九品，審實了，這功名只怕也革的了。」子玉聽了，甚替聘才著急，連說道：「這怎麼好！就是我們那位李世兄，也在外邊胡鬧。夏間去嫖，連衣服都被人剝了。親友們都知道，鬧得很不好看。不料魏聘才又鬧出這件事來。」素蘭道：「也叫他吃些虧才好，如今報應得甚快。誰叫他會使趕車的糟蹋人，如今是加倍奉還了。」子玉又笑起來。
當下三人講了好一回，子玉見天色不早，辭了二人回家。
到上房見了顏夫人，顏夫人似有不悅之色，子玉也不敢問，呆呆的站在一邊。顏夫人道：「你父親有家書回來了，你作的事，他都知道，並且說我不能教訓，你自去看罷。」便將家書遞與子玉，子玉接了，未看時已唬得目定口呆。走到窗前，恭恭敬敬捧了，看了一遍，兩頰通紅，一言不發，只看著顏夫人。顏夫人見了這樣光景，心上著實可憐，只得故作冷笑道：「知道害怕，莫若從前不作這些事不好麼！以後學好也由你，不學好也由你，橫豎我不能跟著你出外。你若再不要好，你父親回來恐未必依你。」子玉只得連連答應幾個：「是！」也不敢坐下，也不敢退出。顏夫人也不便安慰他，只好問他今日可見魏聘才。
子玉聽了，似有躊躇，欲說不說的光景。顏夫人又問了一聲，子玉說道：「沒有見著，而且得個信，說魏聘才不曉得鬧了什麼事，被人告了，前日已收在刑部監裡。」顏夫人聽了，吃驚不小，急問道：「這話是誰說的？為著什麼事，你從何處打聽來？」子玉隨口說道：「是一個認識的人，就是魏世兄的親戚張仲雨說的。他也講得不甚明白，倒像是狎妓飲酒被坊官拿去的。」顏夫人聽了，罵了一聲：「下作東西！作這些不愛臉的事，如今便怎樣呢，難道華府裡也不管他嗎？」子玉道：「聽得魏世兄在城外的日子多，這件事改著個假名假姓，說姓李，大約還瞞著華府裡。又有人說，他新捐了個從九品。他雖說是李三才，人原知道他是魏聘才。」顏夫人臉都氣紅，停了一會，道：「好嗎，都是這些不成材的。就是李世兄也是天天不在家，不知在外面作什麼事，想來也未必幹正經，我又不好說他。聘才的事，諒他總知道細底。」子玉道：「據李世兄講，有兩三月不見聘才了，他們近來倒很疏遠。」顏夫人道：「但則聘才的事怎麼好？其人雖不足惜，但究竟是老爺世交之子，打聽個實信才好。」便叫個僕婦去傳梅進進來，梅進即便走到階下站住。顏夫人將聘才的事說了，叫他到王親家老爺處，托他關照關照，到部裡說個情也好。梅進應道：「奴才就去。但魏少爺的事情雖小，已經收在監裡，連他的家人都不容進去送飯，不知怎麼要如此嚴緊。只怕親家老爺未必肯講這個情。或者他那華府裡有人張羅他。」顏夫人道：「你想是知道他的情節，到底是怎樣的？」梅進道：「昨日聽得人說的。」便細細的將聘才的事說了一遍。顏夫人道：「雖然如此，我們是盡我們的心，你且到王老爺處走一走，能與不能再說罷。」梅進出去了，顏夫人冷笑道：「這是喜歡到相公家裡去的榜樣。」子玉臊得滿臉通紅，只得在下邊凳子上坐下，即陪侍顏夫人吃了飯，然後回他書房。從此子玉心上懼怕，竟好幾天不敢再作妄想。
梅進來到王宅，文輝傳進，問了來意。梅進稟明，文輝冷笑了一聲，道：「那魏聘才，我一見他，就知道不是個東西。你們老爺定要留他，幸而如今出去了。這件事怎樣去說，且刑部裡絕無相好。你回去與太太請安，說我只好轉托人，碰他的運氣罷。」梅進回去照直說了，顏夫人也無法，只得聽其自然。且說聘才在監裡許了蓉官與玉天仙許多銀子，叫他們跟著他的口供，說係那日吏目請他在蓉官寓處吃酒，叫了媳婦玉天仙。飲酒中間，要問聘才借銀一千兩，聘才不允，因此口角。
郁吏目預先帶有兵役，即將他們鎖了，帶回寓所。改作查夜拿獲，詐贓賣放，勒寫欠票等情。玉天仙又供郁吏目常到他家吹煙飲酒，半月前發貼請分子，分金未到，因此挾嫌，設計鎖拿。
那日鎖拿之後，又逼索錢五百弔改供賣放。蓉官所供一樣。部裡審了兩堂，彼此口供相對。華公子已知道了，欲待不管，心裡又有些不安，只得著人到刑部裡與他托情關照，因此輕辦了好些。將吏目革職，聘才杖了二十，玉天仙逐出境外，蓉官釋放回家，結了案。
聘才尚欣欣的得意進城，道是官司贏了，一徑回華府來。
門上人見了，都來寬慰了好些話。聘才揚揚的說道：「倒也沒有受一點委屈，這些司官老爺們，都與我相好，司獄又是我的至交，一切全仗了他們。這幾日倒也張羅得很好，不知公子可知道此事麼？」眾人只好回說不知道。
聘才進了自己屋子，尚有一起一起的人來問他，唯不見華公子打發人來，聘才真道他不知此事，便放了心。到了第三日，見林珊枝進來，兩手捧了一大封，像是銀子，放在桌上，說道：「這是公子送你的。」說完轉身就走，聘才「道謝」兩字尚說不及，已去遠了。聘才見此光景，與平日不同，有些疑異，遂看銀包，上面寫著：「贐儀二百兩。」心中跳了一跳，沉思了一回，已經明白，但一時不得主意，欲候珊枝出來說個明白。
誰知候了兩日，不見一個人來，就是平時常見的顧月卿、張笑梅也不過來。再思量了半夜，才定了主意，次早寫了一封謝札，先說些感激的話，後說梅宅有事，現要請其回去照料家務，情面難卻，只得暫去，俟開春再來。寫完，自己到門房裡告訴了門上，將書信給他傳講。約有半個時辰，見門上進來道：「方才的字，公子已看，說回梅宅去的很是，公子有事，不及親送了。」聘才心上尚冀轉過臉來，聽了這話，不覺心如死灰，只得說道：「多多道謝公子，並各位大爺們，多承照應了大半年。我今日就要搬出去，也不能當面叩辭了。」管門的答應著去了。聘才無奈，只得收拾行李物件，一面問管事的要了一個大車裝好。自己有一車一馬、兩個小使、一個廚子、一個車夫，一齊的出了城，暫在一個店裡歇了，消停了再找寓處。
聘才在華府裡僅有十個月，在外面招謠撞騙，所得銀錢卻也不少。華公子於修金之外，尚多遺贈。聘才捐了個從九，花去四百餘金，作衣服及浪花浪費共有二千金。此時除前日二百金之外，尚存三百金，還有些玩好等物。且幸所捐名次在前，約半年可選。因此膽壯心豪，與從前大不相同了。在店裡住了兩日，嫌他嘈雜，即租了宏濟寺春航住的房子，高車大馬，大闊起來。也不到梅宅去看望。蓉官、玉天仙時常往來，聘才以百金分送二人，又給了些零星玩好，日日徵歌斗酒，自然有那一班氣味相投的與他親密。
卻說富三爺聞得聘才鬧了事，便在部裡打聽了幾日，自己無路可通。後聞華公子替他托了情，才放了心。後又聽見聘才辭館出來，便又惦記著放心不下，意欲邀他回家。一日，起早出城來找聘才，只見寺門口一班人在那裡囉唣。富三爺下車時，見一個披著件青布老羊皮大襖，戴一頂舊秋帽，有三十多歲，口中在那裡撒村混罵。富三爺聽他說道：「原來這麼不是朋友，一天到晚買長買短，茶茶水水，生爐子燒炕，那一樣不伺候到？許給一百弔，才這麼著。如今不認了，給三十吊錢就算了。你想公門中行好是沒有的，過了河就拆橋，保佑你別進來。第二回再來，你瞧著罷。」富三聽了，知是刑部的禁卒，便皺著眉走進去。聘才的人見了，即忙通報。富三已走進院子，聽得咭咭咯咯打鼓板。小使開了風門，見聘才與蓉官迎出來，蓉官便搶上一步，哈了一哈腰，就來拉手。富三把他擰了一把，蓉官便將富三的手扭轉來。富三罵道：「小兔子鬧什麼？」擺脫了手，忙與聘才見了，問了好，便道：「恭喜！恭喜！那幾天我實在放心不下，司裡頭又沒有認識的人，也不能進來瞧你。到你進了城，正要來看你，你又辭了館了。老弟，你叫作哥哥的怎麼不惦記你？你是個異鄉人，無親少故的，如今打算怎樣？還是要找館地呢，還是在城外住？不然，到舍下去，過年也有個照應，省得廟裡冷清清的。」聘才道：「多謝三哥美意。但小弟在城外住便當些，還有幾件事情。若到城裡去，就不便了。或者明年再來叨攏罷。」富三道：「旅費敷衍得下去嗎？」聘才道：「暫住幾月，尚可敷衍。」富三道：「也要省儉些才好。你在華府中也受用慣了，若如今要照那樣兒就費事。」聘才道：「自然要減省些。此刻就算這兩個牲口是多餘的，然而也省不來。僱來的車，一天也要一弔六百錢。核算起來，也就費得有限了。」富三要拉聘才出去吃飯，聘才說道：「在這裡吃罷。」就吩咐多添幾樣菜。富三道：「咱們上館子去罷，省得你自己費心。」聘才尚未回答，蓉官道：「你好糊塗，今日已是臘月二十五了，還有館子？家家都收了，要討長呢。」富三笑道：「不錯，這兩天心緒不佳，連日子都忘了。」聘才道：「你有什麼心事，還怕過不去年麼？」富三道：「倒不是為過年，過年原不要緊。你忘了我這個直隸州，如今已是頂選。前日出了兩個缺，一個湖北，一個貴州。湖北好，貴州極苦。本應湖北輪到我，偏偏來了一個壓班的來投供，只怕是他的了。貴州我聽得一年不滿三竿，如何是好？我想到選司找先生們商量商量，不知可好斡旋麼？」聘才道：「這裡的和尚是僧▉司，他的兄弟就是吏部文選司的經承。或者就托這和尚去商量商量，可以挽回也未可知。」富三道：「很好，我倒不便面講，你就去與他說，若辦成了，我重重的謝他。」聘才點頭道：「這和尚倒好說話的。那裡算什麼出家人，吃喝嫖賭樣樣精明，吹唱也好，還會專醫楊梅瘡，倒也真快活有趣。
人人稱他為唐老爺，他又要人叫他唐大哥。」聘才話未說完，只聽得風門一響，探進一個頭來，戴個鑲邊醬色氈帽，兩撇濃鬍子，又縮了出去。聘才道：「唐大哥進來坐。」那人道：「停一回再來。」聘才道：「就請進來，這位客就是我說的富三老爺，他正要會會你。」唐和尚便撬開風門，走將進來。聘才與富三站起，唐和尚滿面堆下笑來，說道：「原來這是富三老爺，今日僧人有幸，瞻仰了大貴人。」富三也說：「久仰得很。」與他拉了手，和尚一屁股就坐在椅子上，把富三上下瞧了兩眼。富三看這和尚也就生得異樣，五短身材，穿一件青縐細羊皮僧袍，拴一條黃絲縧，腳下是灰色絨毛兒窩，滿面陰騭紋，一雙色眼，手中拿個白玉煙壺，遞給富三，富三也把個瑪瑙壺送給他。和尚聞了煙，便問道：「三老爺在城裡住？三老爺是不認得我。當年我的師父與太爺很相好的，太爺巡南城時，常到小寺來，愛下大棋，常與我師父下棋。你方才沒有瞧見老爺神座旁邊那幅對子麼，還是太爺親筆寫的，刻好了送來。這話有二十九年了。三老爺，你能此刻恭喜在那個衙門？」富三道：「我在戶部主事上當了幾年差使，今年遵例加捐了直隸州，目下也要出京。」和尚道：「如今選在那一省？」富三道：「尚未定，現有湖北、貴州兩個缺，只好碰我的運氣了。」和尚道：「三爺一定是湖北。我祖籍是湖北，今日可巧見著我，一定是湖北，不用說了。」說罷，哈哈大笑。聘才道：「你也在這裡吃飯，還有一件事要和你商量。」和尚應允。聘才拉他到房裡說了一會話，富三聽得明白，和尚連聲的道：「容易，交給我包管作臉兒，放心，放心。」同走了出來，和尚又對富三說道：「三老爺的喜事，方才魏大爺已講了，我就著人叫我兄弟來商量。包管妥當，不用三老爺費一點心，都在我身上。」富三便道了謝，忽見風門外走進一個小和尚來，約有十六七歲，生得十分標緻。頭上戴個青綢灰鼠暖兜，身穿藕色花縐綢狐犭欠皮僧袍，腰拴絲縧，腳穿大紅鑲鞋，拿了一枝水煙袋來，替他師父裝煙。和尚也不讓客，就吸起來。富三見了，著實愛慕，彎流流兩眼只管看他。蓉官站在聘才背後，對著富三作手作腳的，引得富三笑道：「唐大哥，這位是你徒弟麼？我倒像見過他。」
和尚得意洋洋的道：「小徒叫得月，今年十五歲了，唸經唱曲都也將就，就是愛頑皮，我總不許他出門，三老爺不知從何處見他？」富三爺笑得兩眼瞇，齊說道：「待我想來。」想了一回，忽然的大笑道：「呸！我記錯了，我認是大悲庵的姑子，實在像得很。」說得聘才大笑，小和尚漲紅了臉。唐和尚笑道：「三老爺取笑。」聘才道：「叫他裝個姑子，卻也看不出來。我們這唐大哥是第一個快樂人，吃的、穿的、用的、頑的，件件都好。」唐和尚道：「阿彌陀佛，出家人有什麼好。我師兄在日把我拘束住了，如今比從前卻舒服些。原先這屋子裡有位田老爺，住了一年，也是天天有相公來的。我偶來走走，師兄便嘮嘮叨叨的說我不該過去。可笑我那師兄，不吃不喝不花，緊緊的守住了那租子，都被他姪兒騙得乾乾淨淨。臨終時一雙空手，身後事都是我辦的。人生在世，樂得吃，樂得頑。三老爺也不是外人，如今出家人都是酒肉和尚，守什麼清規？我生平不肯瞞人，實在吃喝嫖賭也略沾滋味的。」說得富三大笑道：「真是個爽快人。」三人談了好一回。富三見那小和尚生得實在可愛，不覺垂涎起來。又見他與蓉官坐在一凳，彼此交頭接耳的說話。
鐘上已交正午，才見聘才的人來擺桌子，放杯箸。富三道：「你可不要費事。」聘才道：「沒有什麼可吃的。」於是分賓主坐了，富三叫得月也坐了。唐和尚命得月同著蓉官斟酒。富三見果碟小吃已擺滿了一桌，便道：「作什麼，都拿開，留四碟就夠了。」便叫留下山雞絲、火腿、倭瓜子、杏仁。蓉官道：「慢些，慢些！」便搶了一碟橘子，又抓了一把金橘道：「你不愛吃，還有人愛吃呢。」一連上了九樣菜，倒也很好滋味。蓉官夾了一個肉圓颯噻到唐和尚嘴裡，和尚囫圇吞了。蓉官又夾了一個，和尚又吃了。蓉官道：「兩個卵子十八斤，吃葷的不用，吃素的便請。」富三、聘才大笑起來，唐和尚也笑道：「我吃不要緊，你若吃時，可受不住了。不要說是十八斤，就是四兩重一條的，你可吃得下？」說罷伸手過來，把蓉官捏了兩把。蓉官瞪著眼睛，將他氈帽除了，在他光頭上摸了一摸，道：「你們看，像是什麼？」唐和尚道：「很像雞巴，你愛不愛？」蓉官又將他的氈帽折攏道：「你瞧這個又像什麼？」富三道：「蓉官總是這麼淘氣，別叫唐老爺打你。」唐和尚連忙陪笑道：「不妨，不妨！頑笑罷了，什麼要緊。」便歪轉臉來，湊著蓉官耳邊說道：「就像你那後庭花。我這腦袋，又在你的前面，又在你的後面，給點便宜與你，好不好？」蓉官把氈帽與他帶上，說道：「好個賊禿。」那得月喝了幾杯酒，臉上即紅起來，越顯得嬌媚。富三道：「蓉官，你瞧得月，何等斯文。」蓉官道：「他好，你敢是想他作徒弟麼？」大家混鬧一陣，唐和尚煙癮來了，就在聘才處開了燈，吹一會煙，直到申末才散。
富三進，城又重托了唐和尚，蓉官也自回去。不知後事如何，且聽下回分解。
The story begins with the character Shi Geishi leaving Daming Road, accompanied by Nanxiang on his official journey, with plans to return next year for the imperial examinations. Several esteemed scholars and famous actors saw them off, and they spent a few more days together. Time passed quickly, and before they realized it, it was already mid-December. Ziyu, feeling the absence of two close friends, Nanxiang and Gaopin, who had left the capital, was left with fewer confidants. Last month, Wang Geshixue visited Madam Yan, mentioning that Ziyu’s marriage should be arranged either by the end of winter or early spring.
Madam Yan replied that it would be inappropriate to make decisions alone and suggested sending a letter to Jiangxi to wait for a response before making any final decisions. Because of this, Ziyu had not been visiting the Wang residence as often. Recently, Xu Ziyun had filled a new position, which added more official duties, preventing him from visiting the garden every day.
One day, the weather was clear and mild, with the snow melting and the wind calm. Ziyu felt the urge to visit Pingcai and inquire about Qinyan’s whereabouts.
After breakfast, after reporting to his mother, he set out for the city. He hadn’t gone half a mile before he suddenly hesitated, thinking that Pingcai might not be home, and the more he thought about it, the less he wanted to go. He said, “Let’s not go, let’s return to the countryside!” Yun’er turned the horse around, and the carriage driver reversed the carriage. As they were leaving the city, they suddenly encountered several carriages blocking the road and a group of camels crowded in. The carriage drivers were shouting and bustling, unable to make way. Ziyu’s carriage lowered the curtain, aligning with another carriage. When Ziyu glanced out from the glass window, he saw that the person in the other carriage also turned to look at him—it was Baozhu. Seeing this, Ziyu couldn’t help but smile. Baozhu asked, “Where are you coming from? Where are you going?” Ziyu replied, “I’m coming back from the city, not going anywhere else.” Baozhu said, “Why not come to my place for a chat? We haven’t seen each other for two months.” Ziyu thought it was still early to return home and that he could take this opportunity to relax, so he said, “That sounds good!” As the carriages moved on, Ziyu led the way, with Baozhu following, and they both arrived at Baozhu’s residence. After getting out of the carriage, Baozhu invited Ziyu inside.
It was Ziyu’s first time visiting. Upon entering the inner courtyard, he saw that the main house had three rooms, with the western room serving as the study, where a plaque hung with the inscription “Little Langya Studio.” Inside, the fragrance was overwhelming, without a speck of dust. Two pots of blooming narcissus flowers were on display. On the table, there was an ancient bronze vase holding a branch of heavenly bamboo and two branches of winter plum. Additionally, there were two pots of Tang flowers. The paintings and calligraphy hanging on the walls were all works by famous artists of the past, not the works of common artisans. There was also a small showcase with a horizontal scroll hanging on the left side, which was a small portrait of Baozhu leaning on bamboo, while on the right side, there were four small screens painted with flowers by Jin Su, who had taught Baozhu to paint. Seeing this, Ziyu couldn’t help but sigh and say, “In this world, some are fortunate, while others are not. Look at these famous scholars, who have suffered such calamities. Is it truly that Heaven is jealous of talent?” He then said to Baozhu, “I’ve heard people say that the way you treat this gentleman, and the way he treats you, is no less than how Huifang treats Xiangfan. Moreover, after this gentleman fell out of favor, you grew even closer, covering all his travel expenses. Such kindness is truly rare and would make ordinary people in officialdom feel ashamed. This gentleman is also deeply grateful.” While Ziyu was speaking, Baozhu remained silent, her eyes turning red as she sighed deeply and said, “We are all wanderers in this world, so why should it matter if we have known each other before or not?” She couldn’t help but shed tears. Ziyu, realizing that his unintentional words had touched Baozhu’s heart, felt he had spoken out of turn. He quickly pointed to the bamboo outside the window and said with a smile, “In this cold season, comparing this noble gentleman to the Tang flowers shows his graceful nature, standing tall like pine and cypress.” Baozhu, hearing this, broke into a smile through her tears, and Ziyu felt relieved. He then added, “Time passes so quickly; in the blink of an eye, it’s the end of the year again. Truly, the years flow like water.” Baozhu replied, “Indeed, the year is almost over. The other day, I heard Jian Tan say that after the new year, we should congratulate you. Will you invite us to your wedding banquet?” Ziyu said, “It’s not decided yet; I’ll wait for the family letter to come back and then see.” Baozhu said, “Today, I have prepared two dishes. I wonder if you would honor us by staying for dinner? If you do, I’ll invite Xiangwan over, and we can all chat together.”
Ziyu hesitated and said, “If I stay for dinner, it will be late when I return. The other day, when there was such heavy snow, you must have collected some snow water. Why don’t we brew tea with the snow, invite Xiangwan over, and have a refined gathering? Wouldn’t that be better?” Baozhu smiled and said, “That sounds wonderful; you’re always different from others.” She then instructed someone to invite Sulan and ordered the brazier to be moved to the outer room, along with the tea stove and the full set of tea utensils. Ziyu saw that a large copper tray had been placed on the floor, and then an ancient bronze tea stove was set on the tray. The stove was over a foot high, round like a bushel, with tripod legs. The stove body had two holes, and the mouth of the stove was small and round. Some glowing embers were taken from the brazier and added to the stove, along with some fresh charcoal, and soon a lively fire was burning in the stove. Someone else brought over a large blue porcelain bowl and a large Yixing clay kettle with a carved handle, filled with snow water. Seeing this, Ziyu was quite impressed and said, “Even before brewing the tea, just seeing this tea set already refreshes the mind and quenches thirst.” While they were talking, Sulan arrived, and everyone greeted her. Sulan smiled at Baozhu and said, “Today, you’ve set such an elegant scene; it must be for an elegant guest. But adding me, a common person, won’t I spoil the refined atmosphere?” Baozhu said, “You’re very refined yourself.” Sulan then asked Ziyu, “Why have you been staying home lately? Have you met Yuning?” Ziyu replied, “No, I haven’t. How could Yuning come out now? I didn’t expect him to settle in such a place.” Baozhu smiled and said, “I’m afraid that’s not where Yuning will settle for long. Yuning’s ambitions won’t let him suffer for long.” Ziyu said, “I heard he is being treated very well. What grievances could there be?” Baozhu said, “The treatment is good, but Young Master Hua isn’t someone who can truly be considerate of others. Duoxiang treated Yuning so well, but still couldn’t win Yuning’s heart. How can this side compare to Duoxiang?”
The situation is different, where everything must follow strict rules, which can be inconvenient for those who are used to a more relaxed lifestyle. On the fourteenth of August, I noticed that Yurong was serving, but it seemed forced; it was like she had no choice.” Sulan said, “Now, even when she sees us, she seems distant, as if there’s always a cloud of worry over her heart.” Upon hearing this, Ziyu couldn’t help but sigh. Baizhu, noticing the water was boiling, went to the antique kitchen and took out a jade tea jar. She mixed four types of famous teas herself, brewed it by hand, and covered the jar. Then, she took out three fine porcelain tea cups, poured the tea into them, and refilled the tea jar with hot water before covering it again. Ziyu said, “It was a lot of work for you to make it yourself.” Baizhu replied, “Please try it and see if it tastes good.” Ziyu and Sulan each took a sip and found the tea fragrant and refreshing, filling their mouths and warming their hearts. They both said, “This tea is excellent, and it doesn’t taste like just one kind of tea.” Baizhu said, “I combined various good teas into one.” Ziyu remarked, “No wonder it’s so wonderfully fragrant.” Baizhu then brought out a box of fruits to accompany the tea. Ziyu said, “This is better than wine.” The three of them chatted idly for a while. Sulan asked Ziyu, “Have you seen your old family friend Wei Pintai recently?” Ziyu replied, “It’s been about two months since I last saw him. Today, I was planning to visit him specifically. I had already entered the city, but then I thought he might be out, and I suddenly lost interest, so I turned back. That’s when I ran into Yaoqing.” Baizhu smiled and said, “You should have gone. Even if Pintai wasn’t home, your heart’s person rarely goes out; if she knew you were visiting, she would definitely come out to see you.” Ziyu remained silent. Sulan said, “Do you know what Wei Pintai has been up to lately?” Ziyu asked, “What happened?” Sulan smiled and said, “This Wei Pintai used to send people to harass Yurong. I really hated him for that. But after Yurong went in, nothing much happened. I realized he isn’t truly evil, just a petty person. Little did I know that while he used to mistreat others, now he’s being mistreated himself. And soon, he won’t be able to show his face in public.” Ziyu was very surprised and quickly asked, “What happened that makes him unable to show his face?” Baizhu, who also didn’t know, asked what had happened. Sulan explained, “Wei Pintai was never a good person, but it’s really hard to find true friends these days; so many people have a human face but a beast’s heart. Do you really not know that Wei Pintai was caught by the local authorities while spending the night with a prostitute and was handed over to the Ministry of Justice?” Ziyu was shocked and said, “Is that true? How did he end up being handed over to the Ministry of Justice?” Sulan said, “I heard this from Zhang Zhongyu. Zhongyu is now in command, so he knows about this. It happened about four or five days ago.
On that day, Wei Pintai had invited Lord Fu to drink at the lodging of a courtesan named Rongguan. Lord Fu remembered something and went into the city first. Pintai didn’t enter the city but asked Rongguan to call a woman named Yu Tianxian, and they spent the night at Rongguan’s place. It was nearly midnight, and they were still drinking and singing. A patrol officer named Yu Taisun came in to inspect and recognized Pintai, as they had attended banquets and watched operas together before. Seeing that it was Officer Yu, Pintai relaxed and invited him to sit, but the officer refused. Pintai started joking with him. But then, the officer’s expression changed, and he said, ‘Old Wei, today is not a day for jokes. Don’t you know that public business must be handled publicly?’ Pintai, thinking he was still joking, replied, ‘What public business or private business? Don’t bring up official business like this. Even if a senior official entertains a courtesan, it’s nothing unusual. Come on, sit down.’ As he spoke, he tried to pull him over. The officer snorted and said, ‘It doesn’t matter who you are; tonight, I’m on duty, and even if our commander-in-chief were here, I would still arrest him.’ As soon as he finished speaking, several guards came out with chains and shackled Pintai, dragging him outside. Two others also locked up Rongguan and Yu Tianxian. Poor Wei Pintai, dressed in his brand-new clothes, was tied to the back of a cart and forced to run along. They took him to the officer’s residence, where he was interrogated without mercy. Fortunately, Pintai’s servant found a clerk, paid 1,600 coins, and wrote a false confession. They also found a shopkeeper to vouch for him, and only then were the chains removed. The fake confession stated that Wei Pintai was actually Li Sancai and that he had been dining at Rongguan’s place, where they had been unexpectedly visited by Rongguan’s married sister, with whom he had no improper relations.
The interrogation concluded, proving the story to be true, and he was released.” Ziyu asked, “So, it was all clarified. Why was the case sent to the Ministry then?” Sulan replied, “I heard that a city patrol officer discovered that the officer had extorted money, altered the confession, and privately released the suspects. So, the case was submitted to the Ministry of Justice.” Baizhu asked, “So is Wei Pintai in jail now? He deserves it, but why isn’t Young Master Hua helping him?”
Sulan said, “According to Zhongyu, this was all kept secret from Young Master Hua, and besides, Pintai used a false name. Although his reputation is ruined, it likely won’t lead to any major charges. I also heard that Wei Pintai recently purchased a low-ranking official title, but if the investigation proves it true, he might lose that title as well.” Ziyu, hearing this, became very worried for Pintai and kept saying, “What a mess! Even our family friend, Brother Li, is causing trouble outside. He was caught visiting a prostitute this summer, and even his clothes were stolen. All the relatives and friends know, and it caused a huge scandal. Now Wei Pintai has gotten himself into this mess.” Sulan said, “It’s good that he suffers a bit. Retribution comes quickly nowadays. He used to have people mistreated, and now he’s getting it back in double.” Ziyu smiled at this.
The three of them continued to talk for a while. As the day grew late, Ziyu said goodbye to the two of them and went home.
When he arrived at the main room to see Madam Yan, she seemed displeased. Ziyu dared not ask why and stood quietly to the side. Madam Yan said, “Your father has sent a letter home. He knows everything you’ve done and even mentioned that I haven’t been able to discipline you. You should read it yourself.” She handed the letter to Ziyu. Before he even opened it, he was already so frightened that he was speechless. He walked to the window, respectfully held the letter, and read it once through. His cheeks turned bright red, and without saying a word, he simply looked at Madam Yan. Seeing him in this state, Madam Yan felt a deep pity for him but forced herself to smile coldly and said, “If you knew you’d be scared, wouldn’t it have been better not to do such things in the first place? From now on, it’s up to you whether you choose to improve yourself or not. I can’t follow you around when you’re out and about. If you continue down this path, I’m afraid your father won’t be so lenient when he returns.” Ziyu could only repeatedly reply, “Yes!” He didn’t dare to sit down or leave. Madam Yan, finding it difficult to comfort him, could only ask, “Did you see Wei Pincai today?”
Ziyu hesitated, as if he wanted to speak but was unsure. Madam Yan asked again, and Ziyu replied, “I didn’t see him, but I received some news that Wei Pincai has gotten into some trouble and has been reported by someone. A few days ago, he was taken into custody by the Ministry of Justice.” Madam Yan was shocked and quickly asked, “Who told you this? What was the reason? Where did you hear it?” Ziyu casually replied, “It was from someone I know, a relative of Brother Wei, named Zhang Zhongyu. He wasn’t very clear about it, but it seems that Wei was caught by local officials for consorting with prostitutes and drinking.” Upon hearing this, Madam Yan cursed, “Shameless scoundrel! Doing such disgraceful things, what will he do now? Won’t the Hua family care about this?” Ziyu replied, “I’ve heard that Brother Wei spends most of his time outside the city. He used a fake name and identity, calling himself Li. He probably kept this hidden from the Hua family. Some say that he recently bought a low-ranking official position. Even though he goes by Li Sancai, people know he’s really Wei Pincai.” Madam Yan’s face turned red with anger. After a pause, she said, “What a disgrace, all of them! Even Brother Li is always out, who knows what he’s doing. I doubt it’s anything proper, but I can’t really say anything about him. As for Pincai’s situation, I’m sure he knows all the details.” Ziyu added, “According to Brother Li, he hasn’t seen Pincai in two or three months, and they’ve grown quite distant recently.” Madam Yan said, “But what can be done about Pincai’s situation? He may not be worth much, but after all, he is the son of an old family friend. We should at least find out the truth.” She then called a servant to fetch Meijin. Meijin promptly arrived and stood at the bottom of the steps. Madam Yan explained Pincai’s situation and asked him to visit the Wang family patriarch and ask for his help in speaking on Pincai’s behalf at the Ministry of Justice. Meijin replied, “I’ll go right away. However, even though Young Master Wei’s situation is minor, he’s already been taken into custody, and his family isn’t even allowed to bring him meals. It’s unclear why it’s so strict. I’m afraid the patriarch may not be willing to intervene, or perhaps someone in the Hua family is already handling it.” Madam Yan asked, “Do you know exactly what happened?” Meijin responded, “I heard about it from someone yesterday,” and then detailed Pincai’s situation. Madam Yan said, “Even so, we should do our part. Go visit the patriarch and see what can be done.” Meijin left, and Madam Yan sneered, “This is what happens when you frequent brothels.” Ziyu blushed deeply, feeling humiliated, and could only sit on a stool below. He then stayed to accompany Madam Yan for dinner before returning to his study. From that point on, Ziyu was so fearful that he didn’t dare entertain any more reckless thoughts for several days.
Meijin arrived at the Wang residence, where Wen Hui let him in and inquired about his purpose. Meijin explained the situation, and Wen Hui sneered, “I knew from the moment I met Wei Pincai that he was no good. Your master insisted on keeping him around, but fortunately, he’s out now. How can we speak on his behalf? Besides, there’s no one we can rely on in the Ministry of Justice. Go back and inform Madam that I can only try to find someone to help, but it will depend on his luck.” Meijin returned and reported this to Madam Yan, who found herself helpless and could only let things take their course. Meanwhile, Pincai, while in custody, had promised large sums of silver to two courtesans, Rongguan and Yutianxian, to follow his story. They claimed that on that day, the magistrate invited him to Rongguan’s residence for a drink, where they called for Yutianxian. During the drinking, the magistrate asked to borrow a thousand taels of silver from Pincai, who refused, leading to a quarrel.
The magistrate, who had soldiers ready, immediately had them all chained and brought back to his residence. The situation was then reframed as an arrest during a night raid for extortion, forcing the signing of an IOU, and other charges. Yutianxian also testified that the magistrate frequently visited her home to smoke opium and drink. She claimed that two weeks earlier, he had sent out invitations asking for contributions, and because the money hadn’t arrived, he held a grudge and plotted the arrest.
After the arrest, the magistrate further extorted 500 strings of cash to alter their testimonies and secure their release. Rongguan’s testimony matched this account. The Ministry of Justice held two hearings, and their stories aligned. Young Master Hua had already learned of the situation. He considered not getting involved but felt uneasy, so he had someone speak on Pincai’s behalf at the Ministry, leading to a more lenient handling of the case. The magistrate was dismissed, Pincai was given twenty strokes of the cane, Yutianxian was banished, Rongguan was released and sent home, and the case was closed.
聘才, still basking in the glory of his recent success, returned to the city, proclaiming that he had won the case and heading straight back to the Hua residence.
The doormen, upon seeing him, came up and offered many words of comfort. With pride, Pint Cai said, “I didn’t suffer any injustice at all. The officers and officials are all on good terms with me, and the jailer is a close friend of mine. Everything went smoothly, thanks to them. I’ve been well taken care of these past few days. Does the young master know about this?” The group could only reply that they did not know.
Pint Cai entered his own room, where more people came to inquire about his situation. However, there was no sign of anyone sent by the young master of the Hua family, which led Pint Cai to genuinely believe that he was unaware of the matter. This put his mind at ease. On the third day, Lin Shanzhi came in, holding a large envelope in both hands, which looked like it contained silver, and placed it on the table, saying, “This is from the young master for you.” He turned and left before Pint Cai could even say “thank you.” Seeing this unusual behavior, Pint Cai became suspicious. He examined the silver package, which was labeled “Gift of 200 taels.” His heart skipped a beat, and after pondering for a while, he understood the situation but could not immediately decide what to do. He thought of waiting for Shanzhi to come out and explain.
To his surprise, two days passed without anyone coming to see him, not even Gu Yueqing or Zhang Xiaomei, whom he often saw. After contemplating for half the night, he finally made up his mind. The next morning, he wrote a letter of thanks, expressing his deep gratitude. He then explained that there was an urgent matter at the Mei residence, requiring his immediate return to attend to family affairs, and that he would have to leave temporarily, promising to return in the spring. After writing the letter, he went to the gatehouse to inform the doorman and gave him the letter to deliver. About half an hour later, the doorman returned, saying, “The young master has read your letter. He agrees that returning to the Mei residence is appropriate, but he has urgent matters and cannot see you off in person.” Pint Cai had still harbored a faint hope of reconciliation, but upon hearing this, his heart sank, and he could only say, “Please thank the young master and all the gentlemen for taking care of me over the past six months. I will be leaving today and won’t be able to bid farewell in person.” The doorman acknowledged and left. With no other options, Pint Cai began packing his belongings and requested a large cart from the steward. He had his own cart and horse, two servants, a cook, and a driver. Together, they left the city and stayed temporarily at an inn, planning to find a place to live later.
Pint Cai had been living at the Hua residence for just ten months, during which time he managed to swindle a significant amount of silver. Besides his salary, the young master of the Hua family had also given him many gifts. Pint Cai had spent over 400 taels to purchase an official title and 2,000 taels on clothing and other extravagances. Now, aside from the 200 taels he received a few days ago, he still had 300 taels left, along with some valuables. Fortunately, his purchased title was high on the list, and he expected to be appointed within six months. This emboldened him, making him much more confident than before. After staying at the inn for two days, he found it too noisy and rented a house at Hongji Temple Spring Hang, where he lived lavishly. He didn’t bother visiting the Mei residence. The courtesans Rong Guan and Yu Tianxian frequently visited him, and Pint Cai generously gave them 100 taels each and some small gifts. They spent their days indulging in music and wine, naturally attracting a group of like-minded companions.
Meanwhile, Master Fu heard that Pint Cai had been in trouble, so he made inquiries at the department for a few days but found no way to intervene. When he later heard that the young master of the Hua family had interceded on Pint Cai’s behalf, he was relieved. Upon learning that Pint Cai had resigned from the residence, he became worried again, considering inviting him to stay at his own home. One morning, he got up early and went out of the city to find Pint Cai. At the temple gate, he saw a group of people causing a commotion. When Master Fu got out of his carriage, he noticed a man in his thirties, dressed in a blue cloth sheepskin coat and an old autumn hat, cursing loudly. Master Fu listened and realized the man was a jailer from the Ministry of Justice, ranting, “So, you’re not a true friend, huh? I’ve spent all day running errands for you, buying this and that, making tea, tending to the stove, and what do I get? You promised me 100 strings of cash, and now you only want to give me 30? Let me tell you, there’s no room for kindness in the government. Once you’ve crossed the river, you burn the bridge behind you. Pray you don’t end up in here again. Next time, you’ll see what happens!” Hearing this, Master Fu frowned and walked inside. Pint Cai’s servants saw him and quickly informed Pint Cai, who hurried out to greet him with Rong Guan. Rong Guan stepped forward, bowed, and reached out to shake hands, but Master Fu twisted his hand away, causing Rong Guan to retaliate by twisting Master Fu’s hand back. Master Fu cursed, “You little brat, what are you doing?” He shook off Rong Guan’s hand and quickly greeted Pint Cai, asking how he was. He then said, “Congratulations! Congratulations! I was really worried about you those few days. I don’t know anyone in the Ministry, so I couldn’t visit you. When I heard you had entered the city, I wanted to see you, but you had already resigned from the residence. My dear brother, how could I not be concerned about you? You’re a stranger here with no family or close friends. What are your plans now? Are you looking for a new place to stay, or are you planning to live outside the city? If not, why don’t you come stay with me? At least you’ll have some company during the New Year, and it’ll be better than staying in this cold temple.” Pint Cai replied, “Thank you, Brother Fu, for your kind offer. But it’s more convenient for me to stay outside the city for now, as I have a few matters to attend to. It wouldn’t be convenient to stay in the city. Perhaps I’ll take you up on your offer next year.” Master Fu asked, “Do you have enough money to get by?” Pint Cai responded, “I have enough to get by for a few months.” Master Fu advised, “You should be frugal. You were used to a certain lifestyle at the Hua residence, but now you’ll have to cut back.” Pint Cai said, “Of course, I’ll need to be more frugal. Right now, these two horses are a bit of a luxury, but I can’t do without them. Hiring a cart costs 1,600 cash a day, so the expenses are manageable.” Master Fu suggested going out for a meal, but Pint Cai replied, “Let’s eat here.” He then ordered a few more dishes. Master Fu said, “Let’s go to a restaurant instead, so you don’t have to go to the trouble.” Before Pint Cai could reply, Rong Guan chimed in, “How silly, it’s already the 25th of the twelfth month. All the restaurants are closed for the New Year.” Master Fu laughed and said, “You’re right, I’ve been so preoccupied that I even forgot the date.” Pint Cai asked, “What’s been on your mind? Are you worried about not making it through the New Year?” Master Fu replied, “It’s not about the New Year. That’s not a big deal. Did you forget I’m up for a promotion in a prefecture in Zhili? There were two vacancies recently, one in Hubei and one in Guizhou. Hubei is great, but Guizhou is very tough. I should have been next in line for Hubei, but now someone’s come along and taken it from me. I’m afraid it’s going to him. Guizhou is said to be very harsh, with not even enough sunlight throughout the year. How will I manage? I’m thinking of going to the Selection Department to talk to the officials there, but I’m not sure if it’ll help.” Pint Cai said, “The monk here is a supervisor, and his brother is a clerk in the Ministry of Personnel’s Selection Department. Perhaps we could ask the monk to intervene and see if he can change things.” Master Fu said, “That sounds good. I can’t ask him directly, so could you speak to him for me? If it works out, I’ll reward him handsomely.” Pint Cai nodded and said, “The monk is easy to talk to. He’s not like a typical monk; he’s skilled in all kinds of worldly matters—eating, drinking, gambling, and womanizing. He’s also a skilled singer and even treats syphilis. He really knows how to enjoy life.”
Everyone called him Mr. Tang, but he preferred to be called Brother Tang. Before Pingcai could finish his sentence, the door creaked open, and a head peeked in. The man wore a brown felt hat with an embroidered brim and had thick mustaches. He quickly withdrew. Pingcai said, “Brother Tang, come in and have a seat.” The man replied, “I’ll come back in a little while.” Pingcai insisted, “Please come in now. This is Mr. Fu San, the gentleman I mentioned. He’s eager to meet you.” The monk, Tang, pushed the door open and walked in. Pingcai and Fu San stood up. The monk, with a broad smile on his face, said, “So this is Mr. Fu San. It’s an honor for this humble monk to meet such a distinguished person.” Fu San replied, “I’ve heard much about you,” and shook hands with him. The monk immediately sat down on a chair, giving Fu San a once-over. Fu San noticed that the monk was indeed quite unusual. He was short and stout, dressed in a blue, finely pleated lambskin monk’s robe, with a yellow silk sash tied around his waist. He wore grey woolen slippers, had a face full of wrinkles, and a pair of lustful eyes. In his hand, he held a white jade snuff bottle, which he handed to Fu San. Fu San, in turn, handed him an agate bottle. After taking a sniff, the monk asked, “Mr. Fu San, do you live in the city? You probably don’t recognize me. My master was very close to your grandfather. When your grandfather was patrolling the southern city, he often visited our small temple to play chess with my master. You must have seen that couplet beside your grandfather’s shrine; he wrote it himself and had it carved and sent to us. That was twenty-nine years ago. Mr. Fu San, which office are you currently serving in?” Fu San replied, “I’ve been working in the Ministry of Revenue for several years. This year, I followed protocol and made a donation, which has earned me a promotion to the position of Governor of a prefecture. I’ll soon be leaving the capital.” The monk asked, “Which province have you been assigned to?” Fu San replied, “It hasn’t been decided yet. Hubei and Guizhou are the options available, so it’s up to fate.” The monk said, “It’ll definitely be Hubei. My ancestral home is in Hubei. It’s no coincidence that we met today—it’s definitely Hubei. No doubt about it.” He then burst into laughter. Pingcai said, “You should stay for dinner. There’s something else I need to discuss with you.” The monk agreed. Pingcai pulled him into the room, and they talked for a while. Fu San overheard the monk repeatedly saying, “Easy, leave it to me. I’ll handle it. Don’t worry.” When they returned, the monk said to Fu San, “Mr. Fu San, I’ve already discussed your matter with Mr. Wei. I’ll have my brothers handle it. Everything will be taken care of, so you won’t have to worry about a thing.” Fu San expressed his gratitude. Just then, a young monk, about sixteen or seventeen years old, entered through the door. He was very handsome, wearing a warm gray squirrel fur cap and a lotus-colored silk monk’s robe with a fox-fur lining. He had a silk sash around his waist and wore red shoes with embroidered edges. He carried a water pipe and prepared it for his master. The monk didn’t stand on ceremony and started smoking right away. Fu San was deeply attracted to the young monk, his eyes continually drawn to him. Rongguan, standing behind Pingcai, gestured and made faces at Fu San, making him laugh. Fu San asked, “Brother Tang, is this your disciple? He looks familiar to me.”
The monk, proud, said, “This is my disciple, Demoon. He’s fifteen years old this year. He’s decent at chanting scriptures and singing, but he’s a bit mischievous. I never let him go out. Mr. Fu San, where have you seen him before?” Fu San, squinting with laughter, said, “Let me think.” After a moment, he suddenly burst out laughing, “Oh! I was mistaken. I thought he was a nun from the Great Compassion Convent. They really look alike.” Pingcai laughed heartily at this, while the young monk blushed. The monk Tang said, “Mr. Fu San, you’re teasing me.” Pingcai added, “If you dressed him as a nun, no one could tell the difference. Our Brother Tang here knows how to enjoy life; everything he eats, wears, uses, and plays with is of the finest quality.” The monk Tang replied, “Amitabha, what could a monk like me have? When my senior brother was alive, he kept me in check. But things are a bit better now. Originally, there was an old gentleman, Mr. Tian, living in this house for a year. He always had young men visiting him. Whenever I came by, my senior brother would scold me for it. It’s funny—my senior brother didn’t eat, drink, or spend money, and he held tightly onto the rent money, but in the end, his nephew swindled him out of everything. He died with empty hands, and I had to take care of his funeral. Life is short; one should enjoy good food and fun while one can. Mr. Fu San, you’re not an outsider. Nowadays, monks are all meat-and-wine monks. Who follows the rules anymore? I’ve never been one to hide things. I must admit, I indulge in a bit of everything—eating, drinking, gambling, and women.” Fu San laughed heartily, “You’re truly a straightforward person.” The three of them chatted for a long time. Fu San couldn’t take his eyes off the young monk, who was indeed very charming. He also noticed the young monk whispering and giggling with Rongguan, who was sitting on the same bench.
It was already noon when Pingcai’s men came to set the table and lay out the cups and chopsticks. Fu San said, “There’s no need to go to so much trouble.” Pingcai replied, “There’s not much to eat.” They then took their seats, with Fu San inviting Demoon to join them. The monk Tang ordered Demoon and Rongguan to pour the wine. Fu San saw that the table was already full of small dishes and snacks, and he said, “Take these away; just leave four dishes.” He asked to keep the shredded pheasant, ham, pumpkin seeds, and almonds. Rongguan said, “Hold on, hold on!” He grabbed a plate of oranges and snatched a handful of kumquats, saying, “You may not like them, but someone else does.” Nine dishes were eventually served, and they were quite tasty. Rongguan picked up a meatball and popped it into Tang’s mouth. The monk swallowed it whole. Rongguan picked up another, and the monk ate it as well. Rongguan said, “Two eggs weigh eighteen catties. You don’t need them if you’re eating meat, but if you’re eating vegetarian, please enjoy.” Fu San and Pingcai burst out laughing, and the monk Tang also laughed, saying, “It doesn’t matter if I eat them. But if you eat them, you won’t be able to handle it. Never mind eighteen catties—even a strip weighing four taels, can you manage that?” With that, he reached out and pinched Rongguan a couple of times. Rongguan glared at him, then took off his felt hat, rubbed his bald head, and asked, “What does this look like to you?” The monk Tang replied, “It looks like a penis. Do you like it?” Rongguan folded the felt hat and asked, “What does this look like?” Fu San said, “Rongguan is always so mischievous; don’t let Mr. Tang hit you.” The monk Tang quickly laughed, “It’s fine, it’s fine! We’re just playing around, no harm done.” Then he leaned over to Rongguan and whispered in his ear, “It’s just like your back garden. My head can be in front of you or behind you. How about giving you a little fun?” Rongguan put the felt hat back on his head and said, “You little bald thief.” After drinking a few cups of wine, Demoon’s face turned red, making him even more charming. Fu San said, “Rongguan, look how refined Demoon is.” Rongguan replied, “If you like him so much, do you want him as your disciple?” Everyone laughed and joked around, and then the monk Tang started craving a smoke. He lit a lamp at Pingcai’s place and smoked for a while until the late afternoon before they finally dispersed.
Fu San went into the city and entrusted another matter to the monk Tang. Rongguan also went back. To know what happens next, please stay tuned for the next installment.