前回書講的寶珠生日，在怡園樂了一天，正是人生悲樂不同。卻說琴言在華府，因元宵之日，華公子命其與八齡演戲，是日琴言身子不快，且兼感傷往日，是以神情寂寞，興致不佳。
那日在臺上，演到中情所感，不覺真哭起來。華公子以為無故生悲，十分不悅，叫下來痛斥了一番，有幾日不叫上去。琴言獨居一室，來往無人，且與那些跟班小使氣味不投，鑿枘相處。
在留青精舍廂房後，有個小三間住著，有一個小使伺候。院子內有幾塊太湖石，兩棵綠萼梅，一棵紅梅，尚還盛開。
此日是正月二十七日，琴言對了這梅花，不覺思念怡園的梅崦來。想那度香相待的光景，較之今日，真有天淵之別。即有伺候不到處，度香非但沒有形之於色，並且不藏之於心，反百般的安慰體貼。此日的華公子，喜歡時便也與度香彷彿，及不合他的意時，不是發煩，就是挑斥，元宵那一日竟至詬斥起來，與諸奴相等。那一班逢迎巴結的見了，便欣欣得意，似乎也有今日，從此便可墮入輪迴，永無超升之理。主兒多叫一回，同伙多恨一回。主兒多賞一回，同伙多罵一回。那帶誚帶罵、冷言冷語的，叫人難受。總恨奚十一那個忘八蛋無緣無故的鬧上門來，因此墮落在此。又想魏聘才雖不是個好人，然尚有一言半語，道著我的心事，如今他又出去了。那個林珊枝倒像是半個主兒一般，先要小心謹慎的奉承他才喜歡，不然他就要撮弄人。如今索性把我攆出去了，倒也自在，自然也可以不到師父處去了。若得皇天保佑，使我做個清白人，我就饑寒一世，也自願意。不然人說前做過戲子，後做過奴才，好聽不好聽，人還看得起麼？琴言越想越氣，自然的落下淚來，孤孤單單坐在梅花樹下，傷心了一回。聽得林珊枝的口聲，叫了兩聲「玉儂！」即走將進來，琴言站起。珊枝見他滿面愁容，便問道：「你已知道了麼？」琴言不解所問，怔了一怔，便道：「知道什麼？」珊枝道：「你的師傅死了，方才著人來報信與你，並回明了公子，叫你回去送殮。」琴言聽了，也覺傷心，淚流不已，問道：「幾時死的？」珊枝道：「來人說是沒有病，昨夜睡了，今早看他已是死了。」琴言又感傷了一回，問道：「我怎樣回去呢？」珊枝道：「門外有人等你。公子吩咐也不要很耽擱，辦完了喪事就回來。」琴言想了一想，即便答應。珊枝出去了，琴言叫小使包了一包衣服，捆了鋪蓋，並帶了一包銀子，鎖了門出來。可憐琴言尚認不得路徑，小使指點了，走過了門房，卻喜那些人都知道了，也不來問。一直出了頭門，望見照牆邊歇著一輛車，即是他向來坐的車。又見他師娘的表弟伍麻子同來，琴言上前見了，兩人坐上車，一路的講出城來。
將到了門口，已見一班人在那裡搭篷。琴言進了門，一直進內，只見天壽跑出來，見了琴言，重又跑進。聽得他師娘在裡頭，嗚嗚咽咽哭起來。琴言到了牀前，見他師傅已穿好了衣，帕子蒙了面，自然一陣悲酸，跪在牀前，痛哭不止。倒是他師娘拉他起來，勸他住了哭。琴言問道：「師傅得了什麼病，好端端就死了？」他師娘道：「並沒有病，昨夜還是好好的。吹煙吹到三更後，睡了還講了好些話。我睡醒來摸他就冷了。若說受了煤毒，怎麼我又好好的呢？」琴言又問身後之事，他師娘道：「你師傅掙了一輩子的錢，也不知用到那裡去了，去年過年就覺得不甚寬餘。」說到此，便歎口氣道：「比你在家時就差遠了。你那兩個師弟十天倒有八天閒著，已後我也想不出個法子來。你師傅犯了這個急病，臨終時又沒有一言半語，平日在外頭的事也絕不告訴我。如今是我們欠人家的，人家欠我們的，都一概不知道。衚衕外有那兩所房子，也收不得多少租錢。這衣衾、棺木、搭篷，倒將就辦了。到買地辦葬事，只怕就有些拮據起來。」琴言歎息了幾聲，走到從前住房內，叫小使鋪設好了，將帶來的銀包打開看時，大大小小共十五錠，自己也不知多少，約有五六十兩，便拿進送與師娘，道：「這包銀子我也不知多少，公子、奶奶新年的賞賜。如今也可添湊作零用。」他師娘接了，掂了一掂，又解開點了數，便道：「你在華府裡，聽得很好，是上等的差使，可曾多積些錢？我知道你是不在行的，不要被人騙了去。自己費點心，積攢些才好。我是無兒無女，將來就要靠你呢。」琴言道：「公子賞的東西，都是些零星玩物。賞銀錢倒少，就是留著，我也沒用處。將來如果得了，再來孝敬師娘罷。」他師娘點點頭道：「這才好，算個有良心的孩子。」一面將銀子放在抽屜內，琴言也就出來。
只見眾人紛紛的忙亂，伍麻子捧了一包孝衣進來。又見袁寶珠、蘇蕙芳、陸素蘭來了，琴言即忙招接三人，一同坐下。
問了他師傅的事，然後問起他新年光景。琴言略將近事說了幾句。寶珠道：「你既回來，告了幾天假？」琴言道：「早上是林珊枝來告訴的，我也沒有見著公子，說辦完喪事就回去，也沒有限定幾天。」素蘭道：「總得告一個月的假，等出了殯才可進去，不然也對不住你師娘。」琴言道：「可不是。」蕙芳道：「索性告假告個長假，不去也罷了。究竟你也不是賣與他們的。」寶珠道：「在那裡好倒算好，就是拘束些。且同事中沒有一個知心的人，未免孤另些。」蕙芳道：「當日林珊枝也算不得什麼，此刻見了我們，那一種大模大樣。他就忘了從前同班子唱戲，他還唱亂彈時候，多油腔滑調，哄那些不會聽戲的人，發了些邪財。一進了華府，就像做了官，有些看不起同輩的人。偶然與我們說兩句話，又像個老前輩的光景。其實他與我同歲，也沒有大些什麼。」琴言道：「他也是這裡的徒弟，今日說得好笑，對我說道：『你的師傅死了。』難道你出了師，就算不得師傅麼？」寶珠道：「他如今要我們叫他為三爺，若叫他三哥，他就愛理不理的。他也只好在那八齡面前裝聲勢，充老手。你不記得從前王靜芳在燕□堂要打他麼？如今見了靜芳，還不瞅不睬的，記著前恨呢。」琴言道：「華公子的情性，雖算不得十分古怪，然有時卻也捉摸不定。偏是他上去，怎麼說怎麼好，沒有碰過釘子，這也是各人緣分了。真是隨機應變，總沒有一句答不上來，也算難為他。」素蘭道：「我聽得說，他們府裡，沒有一個不巴結他，就是三代老家人，也要在他面前周旋周旋。那魏聘才是叫他三兄弟、老三、三太爺這些稱呼。」
琴言道：「魏聘才搬了出去了，不知可在庾香處？」蕙芳道：「魏聘才麼，如今倒更闊了。就在宏濟寺住，同了奚十一、潘三、楊八一班混賬人天天的鬧，是什麼剃頭的，又是什麼大和尚、小和尚，開賭宿娼，鬧得不像。張仲雨也不與他往來了。」 琴言問起子玉來，寶珠道：「前日我們在怡園敘了一日。」便將前日怎樣喝酒，怎樣行令，次賢新製的酒壺、杯子都說了，琴言著實羨慕。又說那首詩，度香也刻了，庾香見了怎樣思念感傷的神色，一一說給琴言，琴言聽了也就感傷起來。蕙芳道：「你既回來，少不得我們要快聚幾天，不知明日可以不可以？」寶珠道：「明日他也無事。」琴言道：「師傅新死，於理有礙，須消停數日才可。」素蘭道：「若消停數日，你就要進城了。況大家敘敘，清談消遣，也沒有什麼妨礙。你又不是孝子，怕什麼？」寶珠道：「我去問度香，明日、後日皆可。」三人坐了好些時候，要走了，琴言拉住了不肯放，眾人不忍相離，只得坐下。後又來了王桂保、李玉林、金漱芳，大家直等了送殮，拜了，然後才散。琴言穿了孝袍，似乎明日不好出門，只得約定三日後再敘。又叫伍麻子到華府求珊枝轉為告假一月，俟出殯後方得進城。華公子准了，又拿了一個衣箱回來，琴言方才放心。
到了接三那日，有些人來，便請了金三、葉茂林來張羅，同班的腳色之外，還有各班的並左右街鄰，和館子掌櫃的，擠滿了一屋，看燒了紙才散。琴言也乏極了，回房就睡了。
到了明早，寶珠著人送了信來，道：「本定今日，因度香有事，遂改明日辰刻在怡園敘集。」琴言應了，梳洗畢，獨坐凝思：「今日空閒無事，不如去看看庾香罷。」因想去年梅夫人待的光景，去諒也無妨。主意定了，換了一身素服，吩咐套了車，一面告訴師娘去謝謝同班的人。到了外間，忽然又轉念道：「如今已隔了半年了，況從前是聘才領我去的，不要進門房裡回話。如今我獨自去，就算太太待我好，叫我進去，那門房裡我總要去求他，適或碰起釘子來，他倒不許我進去呢？況且他家的人除了雲兒之外，一個都不認識。」思前想後，不得主意，呆呆的站住。那小使進來說：「車已套了，到什麼地方去？」琴言不語，又想了一回道：「不如去找聘才，仍同了他去，省費許多說話。他出來了，我去看看他，他也感情的。」
遂對小使道：「我先到宏濟寺看魏師爺。」即出門上了車，小使跨了車沿，幾個轉變，不上一里路，已到了。琴言見寺門口歇一輛大鞍子四六檔車，有個車夫睡在車上。琴言當是聘才的車，想道幸而來早一步，不然他就要出門去了。小使進去問了，說道：「在家，請你進去。」琴言下來，走進了東邊的門，小使指點他一直過了兩層殿，從東廊後另有一個院子進去。琴言低著頭，並不留心別處，一直到了聘才院子裡，見聘才的四兒出來，與他點點頭，把風門一開。琴言方抬頭望去，吃了一驚，見坐著一屋子的人，心中亂跳，臉已紅了。欲待退出，聘才已迎將出來。只得定了定神，上前見了。聘才道：「今日緣何光降？令我夢想不到。」琴言紅著臉答不上來。聘才對著眾人道：「這是我天天說的第一個有名的杜大相公，如今是叫杜琴爺。」又對琴言道：「這幾位都是我的至好，那位是奚大老爺，那位是潘三爺，這位是我的房東唐佛爺，這位是他的小佛子，那兩個也是班裡頭的，你想必不認識，都見見罷。」琴言無奈，只得對眾人哈了一哈腰。和尚知道是華府來的，便合著掌把腰彎了幾彎，笑迷迷的說道：「多禮，多禮！請坐，琴爺。」潘三倒白對琴言作了一個揖，琴言照應和尚時，沒有留心。潘三已動了色心，借此走上前來，一把拉住了手，琴言欲縮不能。只見潘三口咨牙撩齒的，凝著兩個紅眼珠，笑迷迷的說道：「你是琴大爺，我的琴大太爺，我想見你一面都不能。今日真是有緣千里來相會了。」琴言含羞含怒的急忙灑脫了手。聘才知他害羞，急了是要哭的，忙支開潘三，扯他坐下，要問他時，見奚十一說道：「你如今在華府裡可好？」琴言只得答應了「好。」奚十一道：「你可認得我？」琴言舉眼看他是一個黑大漢子，頗覺威風凜凜，有些怕他，便說道：「不相認識。」奚十一哈哈大笑，走近琴言身邊。琴言要站起來，奚十一雙手按住了他的肩頭，琴言低了頭，心中亂跳。奚十一又道：「你該謝謝我。去年夏天我來找你，你分明在家，不出來見我。後來與你師傅鬧起來，你從後門跑了，從此你就進了華府。這不是我作成你的麼？今日見了，應該謝謝我。」琴言方知他是奚十一，心中更慌，偏著身子站了起來，連忙退縮。奚十一大笑道：「你這孩子年紀也不甚小了，怎麼這般面嫩，倒像姑娘一般。」聘才恐怕奚十一動粗，便解釋道：「他在華府裡規矩甚嚴，一年沒有見過生人，自然拘束了。」這邊潘三抓耳揉腮，垂涎已甚，卻不敢怎樣，唐和尚只好心中妄想而已。聘才便問琴言道：「你今日怎麼能出來？」琴言將他師傅死了，告了一月假：「今日來看你，還要你同我…」說到此，又不好意思說出來，聘才已經明白，便道：「要我同你到那裡去。」琴言只得說道：「要你同我去見見梅太太與庾香。」聘才笑了一笑，點點頭道：「使得，使得，停一停我們就去。」琴言見有人在此，不好催他。
奚十一是個粗鹵人，盡講實事的，但面目之好歹也分得出來。此時見了琴言，卻是生平未見過的寶貝，心中著實大動。
又想他已改了行，又在華府做親隨，便不好動手動腳調戲他，料想叫他陪酒也斷不肯的，怎樣想個法兒弄他一回。一面看，一面聽他們說話，要聘才同他到梅宅去，便想出一個計策來。
自己思算了一會，立起身來道：「我要走了。」便腆起肚子，幾步就走了出去。聘才與和尚連忙相送，潘三尚坐著不動，黃瞪瞪眼睛只管看著琴言，看得琴言一腔怒氣，不能發作。奚十一拉了聘才，走到和尚房中，對聘才作了一個揖道：「今日我要求你行件好事。方才這個人，我實在愛他。我若叫他陪酒，是一定不肯的。」聘才不等說完，忙搖頭道：「不肯，不肯！不肯，定的。」奚十一道：「況且他已改了行，也難強他。如今我有一個妙計，我們去了，你留他吃飯，說吃了飯，才同他到梅宅去。到正吃時，我再闖進來同他坐坐，雖不能怎樣，也就完了這件心事，諒來也不算輕褻他。再送他些東西，看他待我怎樣。老棣臺，我們相好一場，你為我出點力，我一輩子感激你。」聘才沉吟了一會，明知琴言的脾氣不能勉強，但又卻不得奚十一的情，只得說道：「依你這計也好，但是你不可撒村動粗的。他比不得別人，一句話說錯了，他就要哭的。這釘子我已碰過多了。」奚十一道：「你放心，我斷不動粗的。我只要與他坐一坐，怎敢還想別的好處。我還有幾樣菜著人送來，你快把潘三也叫他出來，天香、翠官也攆開，就擺飯，我去去就來。」說罷，慌慌張張上車去了。
聘才進來對潘三道：「和尚請你說話。」潘三不得已，遲延的出去，尚回顧了幾次。聘才把天香、翠官也打發走了，便故意的對琴言道：「好了，清淨了，我也被他們鬧昏了，鬧得一屋子俗臭不堪。我們如今清清淨淨談談，吃了早飯再去，自然有一會耽擱。」琴言一想，在聘才處吃飯也不妨。況且這些人都去了，自然沒有人來，便問聘才道：「今年見過瘐香幾次了？」聘才隨口說道：「三次了。」琴言又問道：「我聽得奚十一是個壞人，為什麼與他相好？」聘才道：「也沒有什麼很相好，看他也是個爽快人。」琴言道：「那個姓潘的，我也知道他。」聘才道：「那是個買賣老實人，就這和尚也極通世務的。」琴言心裡暗笑，也不便駁他。
卻說奚十一跨上車，叫車夫狠狠的幾鞭，那騾子一口氣就跑了回去。奚十一到寓處，即進他的書房，吩咐家人問姨奶奶要了昨日晚上送來的四樣菜、兩樣點心出來，送到魏老爺那裡去，又教了他一番說話。也不進房，就在書房內炕上開了燈，叫巴英官打泡，急急的吹了三十口大口煙，已有三錢，可以挨得半天了。心裡想道：「送他些什麼東西才好呢？」看著自己腰裡一個八大件鋼鑲表值二百吊錢，將這表給他罷。又想道：「單是了表也不算什麼貴重，只有那姨奶奶那對翡翠鐲子，京裡一時買不出來，把這個送他也體面極了。」即到菊花房裡，聽得唧唎唎的一聲。舉眼看時，原來菊花在淨桶上解手，見了奚十一便笑了一笑。奚十一道：「怪不得香氣薰人，我當著外頭開溝呢。」菊花啐了一口道：「嚼你的舌頭。」奚十一開了箱，四角裡掏了一掏，掏著一個匣子，開了蓋，看是了便揣在懷裡，也不蓋箱子蓋，轉身便走。菊花嚷道：「你拿我的鐲子做什麼？」奚十一道：「我與人比一比顏色就拿回來了。」到了書房，叫了巴英官，忙忙的踩開大步，一直到聘才處來。心裡喜道：「我若能弄上了他，這京裡的大老官，就要算我奚老土了。」再說潘三到和尚房裡，和尚把奚十一的計與他說了，潘三樂極，連稱妙計，便在和尚房中等候，心裡想道：「這個活寶，就與他坐一坐，喝一杯就夠了，還想頑他麼？就叫他頑我，我也願意。他若肯頑我，自然也肯給我頑了。」一面胡思亂想，口中淌出饞涎來，便咬著牙把手在脖子後捶了兩捶，鼻子裡哼了兩聲。唐和尚看了好笑，便道：「潘三爺做什麼，脖子漲的疼麼？」潘三也笑了。奚十一的人送了菜來，要面見聘才，四兒同了進去。來人道：「家爺說，有位琴爺在這裡，家爺從前不知道，冒犯了，深自懊悔。本來要請琴爺過去坐坐，恐怕不肯賞臉，叫我送了幾樣菜來，請大爺代家爺轉敬琴爺消消氣，家爺有事不能過來奉陪了。」聘才笑道：「怎麼要你老爺費事？又幾時得罪過琴爺？說得這樣周到，我就收下代做主人便了。你回去多多道謝。」即賞了來人五百錢，又對琴言說道：「這是奚老爺的盛情，送你的，我倒叨光了。你也應該謝一聲。」琴言不解其故，只得也謝了一句。聘才叫四兒吩咐廚房快弄起來，就要吃飯。
四兒去了不多一刻，就擺了酒菜上來，在個方桌子上。聘才道：「雖然便飯，也喝一杯酒。」琴言道：「不消了，就吃飯罷。」聘才不聽，斟了一杯送過來，琴言只得接了，也回敬了聘才一杯。聘才喜出望外，也是平生第一次得意，難得兩人對坐了。聘才隨口的說些話來哄琴言，要他喜歡，說庾香近來也不出門赴席聽戲，常托我對你說，在那裡放寬了心，不要惦記著他，他慢慢的去結交華公子，自然可以常見面了。聘才無非要他安心久坐，等奚十一來。無奈琴言急於要走，酒也不喝，菜也不吃，呆呆的坐著，如芒刺在背的光景。
正要催飯，只聽得院子裡一陣腳步響，已撬了風門進來，琴言見奚十一，心裡就慌，站了起來。聘才笑盈盈的說道：「來得正好，主人來陪客了。」奚十一笑道：「我知道此刻尚未吃完，竭誠來敬琴言一杯。」便叫巴英官拖過登子，就朝南坐了。一手執壺，一手擎杯，斟好了，直送到琴言嘴邊。琴言接又不好，不接又不好，急得滿臉通紅。聘才道：「這是主人敬客人之意，你不能乾，喝一口罷。」琴言只得接了，喝了一口，把杯子放下，對聘才道：「我真喝不得了，已飽得難受，你陪著喝一鍾罷。」便想走開，奚十一一把拉住，道：「好話，我來了你就坐也不坐，是分明瞧不起我。你回去問問，你家公子是我嫡嫡親親的世叔，我也不算外人。你既是他心愛的人，就算我的小兄弟一樣，豈有我來了你要走之理？」便拉住了，毫不用力，輕輕的把他一按，已坐下了。奚十一一面說，雙眉軒動，好不怕人。況舊年琴言已領略過了，嚇得戰戰兢兢，面容失色，只得坐下。奚十一好不快活，便要了一個茶杯，喝了一杯，夾了一條海參送與琴言。琴言按住了氣，站起來道：「請自用罷，我已吃不得了。」奚十一笑道：「別樣或吃不得，這東西吃了下去，滑滑溜溜的，在腸子裡也不甚漲的。」琴言聽了，也懂得是戲弄他，不覺眉稍微豎起來。聘才把腳踢一踢奚十一道：「你想必吃不得了。」奚十一又道：「你既吃不得，我吃了罷。」把琴言吃剩的酒也喝了，還嗒一嗒嘴道：「好酒。」琴言此時氣忿交加，又不便發作，捺住了一腔怒氣，心中想道：「這狗才不懷好意，我如今不唱戲了，他敢拿我怎樣？他如果無禮，我就與他鬧一場。」又見奚十一喝乾了酒，又斟了半杯，放在琴言面前，要他喝。琴言一手按住了杯子，對聘才道：「你知道我是從不喝酒的。」奚十一還要強他，只聽得切切促促腳步聲，見潘三同了和尚進來。潘三嚷道：「巧極了，被我闖了好筵席了。」和尚也說道：「原來魏老爺請客，也不虛邀我一聲。」潘三彎著腰，聳著肩，急急的幾步搶上來道：「待我來敬一杯。」便拿過琴言的杯子來道：「這酒涼了，我替喝了罷。」便一口乾了，把杯子在嘴唇上擦了一轉，斟了半杯，雙手遞來，直送到琴言嘴邊。琴言扭轉身來想走，無奈一邊是潘三，一邊是和尚擋住，不得出位，便接了酒杯。潘三尚不放手，要送進口來。琴言怒道：「我真不會喝酒，你放了，我慢慢的喝。」聘才讓潘三坐下，說道：「我真不能，你等他慢慢的喝罷。」潘三只得放手坐了，聘才與唐和尚拿兩張凳子坐在下面。琴言見潘三將杯子在嘴上擦了一轉，十分惱怒，已知他們一黨，有心欺侮他，若翻轉臉來，猶恐吃虧。
只得苦苦的忍住，拿起杯子來，裝作失手，「當」的一聲砸得粉碎，衣服上也濺了幾點酒，把絹子拭了，對聘才道：「我冒失了。」聘才也知道他的心思，便道：「這有何妨！」
又叫換個杯子來，琴言道：「不必，不必，就拿來我也不喝。」奚十一道：「那不能，也不多勸你，一人勸你三杯。」潘三滿擬這杯酒，他若喝了，琴言便親了他的□嘴一樣，偏又砸了，甚是掃興。還想重來敬他，被聘才攔住。唐和尚不知好歹，斟了半杯道：「阿彌陀佛，華公府是小寺的大施主，老太太裝過三世佛的金身，少奶奶塑過送子觀音像，捨了三年的燈油。如今他府裡爺們光降，我出家人無以為敬，借花獻佛，小琴爺請喝這鍾。」捧了杯子，打了個稽首，口中念道：「南無大慈大悲救苦救難觀世音菩薩！」惹得他們大笑。琴言見了，又好氣，又好笑，面色倒平和了一分，便道：「我真不能喝，你不用強我。」唐和尚陪著笑道：「我的琴爺爺，我方才念過佛，這杯酒就有佛在裡頭。你喝了前門增百福，後戶納千祥，願你大發財，日進一條金。」眾人聽了大笑，琴言只是不肯喝。和尚又把自己的臉抹了一抹，除下了氈帽，道：「小琴爺，你瞧瞧我和尚，難道不是個人臉，真是個雞巴腦袋嗎？」琴言見這怪樣，實在發笑，也忍不住笑了一笑。和尚道：「好了，好了，天開眼了。到底我這個雞巴，比人的腦袋還強呢。」琴言聽了又變了顏色。
和尚道：「我的祖爺爺，你不喝這一鍾，我和尚就沒有臉，明日只好還俗了。」便將酒杯頂在光頭上，雙膝跪下，兩手靠在琴言膝上，口中不住的念佛，不肯起來，笑得眾人捧腹。琴言被他纏得無法，只得說道：「請起，請起，我喝一口，下不為例。」便在光頭上拿了杯子，喝了一口。想一想，恐人喝他的剩酒，索性乾了。立起身來想走，奚十一推住了，和尚抱了他的腿，跪著在他膝上碰頭。琴言只得坐下，真急了，便厲聲正色的說道：「今日請教各位，待要怎樣？」聘才連忙說道：「不喝酒了，倒是大家談談罷。」拉了和尚起來。琴言道：「我有事不能再會了。」又要走，奚十一攔住不放，說道：「不喝酒就是了，坐一會，忙什麼？」聘才只得說道：「快拿飯來吃了，我們還有事呢。」琴言又只得坐下，萬分氣惱，勉強忍住。
奚十一暗忖道：「這孩子真古怪，鬥不上筍來。若不是他，我早已一頓臭罵，還要硬頑他一回。不過我憐惜他，他倒這般倔強，實屬可恨。」又轉念道：「向來說他驕傲，果真不錯。我若施威，又礙著華府裡。況他已不唱戲了，原不該叫他陪酒。
且把東西賞他，或者他受了賞，回心轉意也未可定。」潘三想道：「這孩子比蘇蕙芳更強，可惜我沒有帶結票子來賞他，或他得了錢就巴結我，也未可知。」奚十一道：「我有樣東西送你，你可不要嫌輕。」便從懷裡掏出個錦匣子，揭開了蓋，是一對透水全綠的翡翠鐲子，光華射目。
潘三伸一伸舌頭道：「這個寶貝，只有你有。別人從何處得來？這對鐲子，城裡一千吊錢也找不出來。」不住「嘖嘖嘖」的幾聲。聘才、和尚也睜睜的望著。聘才暗想道：「好出手，頭一回就拿這樣好東西賞他，看他要不要？」琴言也不來看，只低了頭。奚十一道：「你試試，大小包管合式。」便叫琴言帶上。琴言站起來，正色的說道：「這個我斷不敢受，況且我從不帶鐲子的。」琴言無心，伸出一手給他們看，是帶鐲子不帶鐲子的意思。奚十一誤猜是要替他帶上的意思，便順手把住了他的膀子，一拽過來，用力太重，琴言嬌怯，站立不穩，已跌到奚十一懷裡。奚十一索性抱了他，也忍不住了，臉上先聞了一聞，然後管住他的手，與他帶上一個鐲子。奚十一再取第二個，手一鬆，琴言掙了起來，已是淚流滿面，哭將起來，也顧不得吉凶禍福，哭著喊道：「我又不認識你。我如今改了行，你還當我相公看待，糟蹋我，我回去告訴我主人，再來和你說話。」遂急急的跑了出去。到了院子，忙除下鐲子，用力一砸，一聲響，已是三段，沒命的跑出去了。奚十一大怒，罵了一聲，「不受抬舉的小雜種！」便要趕出去揪他。聘才死命的勸住，奚十一那裡肯依，暴跳如雷，大罵大嚷，更兼身高力大，聘才如何拉得住他，只得將頭頂住了他，連說道：「總是我不好！你要打打我，要打打我。」潘三與唐和尚還在旁邊火上添油，助紂為虐。奚十一被聘才頂住，不能上前，又想琴言已跑出寺門，諒已上車走遠，不好追趕，只得罷了。氣得兩眼直豎，肚皮挺起，坐下發喘。
他的巴英官在旁抿著嘴笑，走到院子裡，撿了那碎鐲子，共是三段，放在掌中拼好，說道：「待我花三錢銀子鑲他三截，也發個標，帶個三鑲翡翠鐲子，不知道人肯賞我不肯賞呢。」
拿來放在奚十一面前，又道：「一千弔的鐲子，如今倒直三千弔了。」奚十一見了，越發氣狠狠的罵了一會。潘三與唐和尚連說可惜。大約奚十一回去，只剩一個鐲子，菊花必有一場大鬧，正是癩哈蟆想吃天鵝肉，也不料自己的福分。
且說琴言上了車，下了簾子，一路掩面悲泣。到家即脫下外褂，上牀臥下，越想越恨，只怨自己發昏，去找聘才，惹出這場禍來。把被蒙了頭，整整哭了半日，幾乎要想自盡。不知後事如何，且聽下回分解。
In the previous story, during Baozhu’s birthday celebration, they enjoyed a full day at Yiyuan Garden, highlighting the different joys and sorrows of life. Meanwhile, at the Hua residence, Qinyan was tasked by the young master to perform with Ba Ling on the day of the Lantern Festival. However, Qinyan was not feeling well that day, and he was also nostalgic about the past, leading him to feel melancholic and lack enthusiasm.
On that day, while performing on stage, Qinyan was so moved by the emotions in the play that he began to cry genuinely. The young master Hua, thinking that Qinyan was inexplicably sad, became very displeased and scolded him harshly, leaving him off the stage for several days. Qinyan, isolated in his room, had no one to visit him, and he didn’t get along with the servants, finding their interactions difficult and incompatible.
In the back room of Liuqing Pavilion, there was a small three-room area where Qinyan stayed, attended by a small servant. In the courtyard were a few Taihu stones, two green plum trees, and a red plum tree, still in full bloom.
It was the twenty-seventh day of the first lunar month. As Qinyan gazed at the plum blossoms, he couldn’t help but think of the plum grove at Yiyuan Garden, and the memories there. Compared to his current situation, the difference was like heaven and earth. Back then, Du Xiang would not only never show his feelings openly but also always comforted and cared for him in every possible way. However, young master Hua, though kind when pleased, would be irritated and scold him when things didn’t go his way, as he did on the Lantern Festival, treating Qinyan like any other servant. The flatterers and sycophants around would be delighted by this, as if they had finally found their day of triumph, believing that Qinyan would now fall into the cycle of despair with no hope of rising again. Every time the master called him, his peers would resent him more; every time the master rewarded him, they would scold him even more. The sarcastic remarks and cold words made life unbearable. Qinyan resented the incident where Xie Shiyi’s troublemaking led to his downfall. He also thought about how, although Wei Pintai was not a good person, he at least understood some of Qinyan’s feelings, but now he had left too. Lin Shanzhi, on the other hand, seemed like half a master, needing to be carefully flattered; otherwise, he would cause trouble. Now that Qinyan had been completely dismissed, he felt more at ease, knowing that he wouldn’t have to deal with the master anymore. If the heavens would bless him to live a clean and simple life, he would be willing to endure poverty and hunger for the rest of his life. Otherwise, if people knew he had once been an actor and then a servant, how could they still respect him? The more Qinyan thought about it, the angrier he became, and naturally, tears began to fall. He sat alone under the plum tree, heartbroken for a while. Then he heard Lin Shanzhi calling “Yunong!” twice and walked in. Qinyan stood up. Shanzhi saw the sorrow on his face and asked, “You’ve heard, haven’t you?” Qinyan, not understanding, was startled and replied, “Heard what?” Shanzhi said, “Your master has passed away. Someone just came to inform you and reported it to the young master, who asked you to return and attend the funeral.” Qinyan, upon hearing this, felt deeply saddened, tears streaming down uncontrollably, and asked, “When did he die?” Shanzhi replied, “The messenger said he wasn’t sick; he went to sleep last night, and by this morning, he was found dead.” Qinyan grieved again and asked, “How should I return?” Shanzhi said, “Someone is waiting for you outside. The young master instructed not to delay too long; you should return immediately after the funeral.” Qinyan thought for a moment and agreed. After Shanzhi left, Qinyan asked the servant to pack some clothes, bundle up the bedding, and brought a bag of silver. He locked the door and left. Poor Qinyan didn’t even know the way, but the servant pointed it out, and he walked past the gatehouse. Fortunately, everyone there knew what had happened, so no one questioned him. He walked straight out the main gate and saw a carriage by the wall, the same one he usually rode. He also saw his master’s wife’s cousin, Wu Mazi, who had come with the carriage. Qinyan approached, greeted him, and they both got into the carriage, heading out of the city while talking.
When they arrived at the entrance, they saw a group of people setting up a canopy. Qinyan entered the house and walked straight inside, where he saw Tianshou running out to meet him. Upon seeing Qinyan, Tianshou quickly ran back inside. From within, Qinyan heard his master’s wife sobbing. When he reached the bed, he saw that his master had already been dressed in his funeral clothes, his face covered with a cloth. Overcome with grief, Qinyan knelt by the bed and wept uncontrollably. It was his master’s wife who pulled him up and persuaded him to stop crying. Qinyan asked, “What illness did the master have to die so suddenly?” His master’s wife replied, “He wasn’t ill; he was fine last night. After midnight, when the incense smoke rose, he went to sleep and talked for a long time. When I woke up and touched him, he was already cold. If it was carbon monoxide poisoning, why am I fine?” Qinyan then asked about the funeral arrangements, and his master’s wife said, “Your master worked hard all his life, but we don’t know where the money went. Last year, we already felt the financial strain during the New Year.” She sighed and continued, “It’s much worse than when you were at home. Your two junior brothers are idle most of the time, and I can’t think of a solution for the future. Your master had a sudden illness, and he didn’t leave any last words. He never told me about his business outside, so now we don’t know who owes us money or whom we owe. The two houses outside the alley don’t bring in much rent. The clothes, the coffin, and the canopy have been arranged, but I’m afraid we’ll struggle to buy land and arrange the burial.” Qinyan sighed a few times and went to his old room. He had the servant set everything up and opened the silver bag he brought with him. There were a total of fifteen ingots, large and small, which he didn’t know the exact value of, but he estimated it to be around fifty or sixty taels. He then took the silver to his master’s wife and said, “I don’t know how much this silver is; it’s the New Year’s reward from the young master and mistress. It can be used as extra money for the funeral.” His master’s wife accepted it, weighed it, opened it, and counted, then said, “I hear that your situation at the Hua residence is good, and you have a high position. Have you saved some money? I know you’re not familiar with this, so don’t let anyone cheat you. Take care to save some money. I have no children, so I’ll rely on you in the future.” Qinyan replied, “The young master’s rewards are mostly small trinkets; the silver rewards are few. Even if I saved it, I wouldn’t have much use for it. If I get more in the future, I’ll come and honor you.” His master’s wife nodded and said, “That’s good; you’re a conscientious child.” She then placed the silver in the drawer, and Qinyan went outside.
He saw everyone bustling about, and Wu Mazi came in carrying a bundle of mourning clothes. Soon after, Yuan Baozhu, Su Huifang, and Lu Sulan arrived, and Qinyan hurried to greet them and invited them to sit together.
After inquiring about his master’s situation, they then asked about how he spent the New Year. Qinyan briefly mentioned the recent events. Baozhu asked, “Since you’ve returned, have you requested a few days off?” Qinyan replied, “It was Lin Shanzhi who informed me this morning. I didn’t see the young master, but he said to return after handling the funeral. There wasn’t a specific time limit given.” Sulan suggested, “You should request a month off to stay until the funeral is over. Otherwise, it wouldn’t be fair to your master’s wife.” Qinyan agreed, “You’re right.” Huifang added, “You might as well request a long leave and not return at all. After all, you’re not their property.” Baozhu remarked, “It’s not bad there, but it’s somewhat restrictive. And without a confidant among the staff, it’s bound to feel a bit lonely.” Huifang commented, “Back then, Lin Shanzhi wasn’t anything special, but now when he sees us, he acts all high and mighty. He seems to have forgotten that he used to perform with us in the troupe. When he was singing in the miscellaneous plays, he was full of tricks to deceive those who didn’t understand theater and made some dirty money. But once he entered the Hua residence, it was as if he became a high-ranking official, looking down on his peers. Occasionally, when he speaks to us, he acts like a seasoned veteran. But in fact, he’s the same age as me, not much older.” Qinyan added, “He was also a disciple here, and today, humorously, he told me, ‘Your master has died.’ Does becoming independent mean you no longer consider someone your master?” Baozhu responded, “He now wants us to call him ‘Third Lord.’ If we call him ‘Third Brother,’ he acts indifferent. He only knows how to put on airs in front of Ba Ling, pretending to be experienced. Don’t you remember when Wang Jingfang wanted to hit him in Yantang? Even now, when he sees Jingfang, he still ignores him, holding onto that old grudge.” Qinyan said, “Young Master Hua’s temperament isn’t particularly strange, but he can be unpredictable. Yet, whenever Lin Shanzhi is around, everything he says is right, and he never faces rejection. It seems like good fortune, being able to adapt to any situation without missing a beat; that’s no easy task.” Sulan commented, “I’ve heard that in their household, no one dares to cross him, even the old servants who have been there for three generations have to accommodate him. Wei Pintai calls him ‘Third Brother,’ ‘Old Three,’ and ‘Third Lord.’”
Qinyan asked, “Wei Pintai moved out, is he staying at Yuxiang’s place?” Huifang replied, “Wei Pintai? He’s gotten even wealthier. He’s living at Hongji Temple, hanging out with a bunch of scoundrels like Xie Shiyi, Pan San, and Yang Ba. They’re always up to no good, gambling, and consorting with prostitutes. It’s a mess. Even Zhang Zhongyu doesn’t associate with him anymore.”
Qinyan then inquired about Ziyu. Baozhu said, “We met at Yiyuan a few days ago.” He then described how they drank, played drinking games, and admired the new wine pot and cups made by Cixian, which made Qinyan quite envious. Baozhu also mentioned the poem that Duxiang engraved, and how Yuxiang looked sorrowful and nostalgic upon seeing it, recounting everything to Qinyan, who also felt a pang of sadness upon hearing it. Huifang suggested, “Since you’re back, we should definitely get together for a few days. How about tomorrow?” Baozhu added, “He’s free tomorrow.” Qinyan replied, “My master just passed away, so it wouldn’t be proper. I should wait a few days.” Sulan argued, “If you wait a few days, you’ll have to return to the city. Besides, getting together and chatting a bit won’t cause any harm. You’re not his filial son, so what’s there to fear?” Baozhu said, “I’ll ask Duxiang; either tomorrow or the day after should be fine.” The three of them sat for a while longer before preparing to leave. Qinyan, not wanting to part with them, held them back, so they sat down again. Later, Wang Guibao, Li Yulin, and Jin Sufang arrived, and everyone stayed until the burial was completed and the rites were performed before they finally dispersed. Qinyan, dressed in mourning clothes, felt it wouldn’t be proper to go out the next day, so he arranged to meet again in three days. He then sent Wu Mazi to the Hua residence to ask Shanzhi to request a month’s leave on his behalf, to stay until after the funeral. Young Master Hua approved, and even sent back a clothing trunk, which put Qinyan at ease.
On the day of the “receiving the deceased” ritual, some people arrived, and they invited Jin San and Ye Maolin to help with the arrangements. In addition to the actors from the same troupe, there were also actors from other troupes, neighbors, and the restaurant owner, all filling the room. They didn’t leave until the paper offerings were burned. Qinyan, exhausted, returned to his room and fell asleep.
The next morning, Baozhu sent a message, saying, “Originally, we planned to meet today, but Duxiang has something to attend to, so we’ve postponed the gathering at Yiyuan to tomorrow.” Qinyan agreed and, after washing up, sat alone in thought, “I have nothing to do today; perhaps I should visit Yuxiang.” He recalled how Lady Mei treated him last year and thought it wouldn’t hurt to visit. Having made up his mind, he changed into simple clothes, ordered the carriage to be prepared, and told his master’s wife that he was going to thank the people from the same troupe. However, as he stepped outside, he suddenly reconsidered, “It’s been six months now, and last time, Wei Pintai took me there, so I didn’t have to speak to the gatekeeper. Now, if I go alone, even if Lady Mei is kind and lets me in, I’d still have to deal with the gatekeeper. What if he gives me trouble and doesn’t let me in? Besides, I don’t know anyone there except for Yun’er.” He pondered for a while, unable to make a decision, and stood there in a daze. The servant came in and asked, “The carriage is ready; where are we going?” Qinyan didn’t reply, thinking a bit longer before saying, “I might as well go find Pintai and have him go with me; it’ll save me a lot of trouble. He’ll understand when I visit him.”
So he told the servant, “Let’s go to Hongji Temple to see Master Wei first.” He then left the house and got into the carriage. The servant climbed onto the carriage step, and after a few turns, they arrived in less than a mile. Qinyan saw a large four-wheeled carriage with a saddle parked at the entrance of the temple, with a driver sleeping on it. Qinyan assumed it was Pintai’s carriage and thought, “Luckily, I arrived early; otherwise, he would have already left.” The servant went inside to inquire and returned, saying, “He’s at home and invites you to come in.” Qinyan got out of the carriage and entered through the eastern gate. The servant directed him through two halls, leading to a separate courtyard behind the eastern corridor. Qinyan, with his head lowered, didn’t pay attention to his surroundings and walked straight into Pintai’s courtyard. He saw Pintai’s fourth son come out, nodding at him, and opened the door. Qinyan raised his head and was startled to see a room full of people, his heart pounding, and his face flushing. He wanted to leave, but Pintai had already come out to greet him. He had no choice but to compose himself, step forward, and greet him. Pintai said, “What brings you here today? I never dreamed you’d come.” Qinyan, blushing, couldn’t find the words to reply. Pintai then addressed the others in the room, “This is the famous Mr. Du that I always talk about, now known as Master Du Qinyan.” He then turned to Qinyan and said, “These are all my close friends. That’s Mr. Xi, the great lord; that’s Mr. Pan San; this is my landlord, Master Tang Fo, and this is his young disciple. The other two are also from the troupe, whom you probably don’t recognize. Go ahead and greet them.” Qinyan had no choice but to bow slightly to the group. The monk, knowing he was from the Hua residence, clasped his hands and bowed deeply several times, smiling, “No need for such formality! Please, sit down, Master Qinyan.” Pan San, looking at Qinyan, gave him a salute, which Qinyan absentmindedly returned while focusing on the monk. Pan San, having developed an interest in Qinyan, moved forward, grabbed his hand, and Qinyan tried to pull away but couldn’t. Pan San, grinning, with two red eyes staring intently, said, “You’re Master Qinyan, my dear Master Qinyan. I’ve longed to see you but couldn’t.
Xi Shiyi was a crude and straightforward man who always spoke the truth, but he could distinguish between good and bad people. When he saw Qinyan, he was struck by how precious Qinyan seemed, someone unlike anyone he had ever encountered before. This deeply stirred his emotions.
However, knowing that Qinyan had changed his profession and was now serving as a personal attendant in the Hua household, Xi Shiyi realized that it wouldn’t be appropriate to physically tease him or act improperly. He knew that asking Qinyan to drink with him would surely be met with refusal. As he thought about how he could manage to engage with Qinyan, he began devising a plan while continuing to listen to the conversation, where Qinyan was asking Pintai to accompany him to the Mei residence.
After pondering for a while, Xi Shiyi stood up and said, “I have to leave now.” With that, he puffed out his chest and quickly walked out. Pintai and the monk hurried to see him off, while Pan San remained seated, his eyes glaring at Qinyan, who felt a surge of anger but couldn’t express it. Xi Shiyi pulled Pintai aside to the monk’s room and bowed to Pintai, saying, “Today, I need to ask you for a favor. I really like that person who was just here. If I ask him to drink with me, he will definitely refuse.” Pintai quickly shook his head before Xi Shiyi could finish, saying, “He won’t, he won’t! He definitely won’t.” Xi Shiyi continued, “Moreover, he’s changed professions, so it’s hard to force him. But I have a clever idea: after we leave, you keep him here for a meal, telling him that you’ll go to the Mei residence afterward. When the meal is served, I’ll barge in and join you, and although I won’t be able to do much, at least I’ll fulfill my wish of sitting with him. I’m sure he won’t feel too insulted by that. I’ll also give him a gift afterward to see how he reacts to me. My good friend, if you help me with this, I’ll be grateful to you for the rest of my life.” Pintai hesitated for a while, knowing that Qinyan’s temperament couldn’t be forced, but he couldn’t ignore Xi Shiyi’s request either. So, he reluctantly agreed, “Your plan might work, but you mustn’t act too rough. He’s different from others; if you say the wrong thing, he’ll start crying. I’ve run into this problem with him many times.” Xi Shiyi assured him, “Don’t worry, I won’t be rough. I just want to sit with him; I wouldn’t dare expect anything more. I’ll send over a few dishes in a moment. You should also get Pan San to leave, and send away Tianxiang and Cuiguan too. Then set up the meal. I’ll be back shortly.” With that, Xi Shiyi hurriedly left and got into his carriage.
Pintai returned inside and told Pan San, “The monk wants to speak with you.” Pan San reluctantly got up to leave, still glancing back several times. Pintai also sent Tianxiang and Cuiguan away and then casually told Qinyan, “Good, it’s quiet now. I was getting dizzy from all the commotion and couldn’t stand the vulgar atmosphere in the room. Now we can have a peaceful conversation. Let’s eat breakfast here before we go, which will naturally delay us a bit.” Qinyan thought it wouldn’t hurt to eat at Pintai’s place, especially since everyone else had left, and no one else would come by. So, he asked Pintai, “How many times have you seen Yuxiang this year?” Pintai replied casually, “Three times.” Qinyan then asked, “I’ve heard that Xi Shiyi is a bad person; why do you associate with him?” Pintai responded, “We’re not particularly close; I just think he’s a straightforward person.” Qinyan said, “I also recognize that man with the surname Pan.” Pintai replied, “He’s an honest businessman, and even the monk is very worldly.” Qinyan inwardly smiled but didn’t argue with him.
Meanwhile, Xi Shiyi climbed into his carriage and instructed the driver to whip the mule harshly, making it gallop back in one breath. Once back at his residence, Xi Shiyi went straight to his study and instructed his servants to ask his concubine for the four dishes and two snacks that were brought over the previous night to be sent to Master Wei’s place. He also gave them specific instructions on what to say. Without going inside, he lit a lamp in the study, had Ba Yingguan prepare some tea, and quickly smoked thirty large puffs, which would keep him satisfied for half the day. He then pondered, “What gift should I give him?” Looking at the eight-piece steel-inlaid watch on his waist, worth two hundred strings of cash, he thought about giving that to Qinyan. But then he reconsidered, thinking, “Just the watch alone doesn’t seem valuable enough. My concubine’s pair of jade bracelets would be perfect. They’re rare and can’t be easily bought in the capital.” He then went to the Chrysanthemum Room and heard a slight noise. Looking up, he saw Chrysanthemum relieving herself on the toilet. Seeing him, she smiled. Xi Shiyi joked, “No wonder the fragrance is so strong; I thought there was an open drain outside.” Chrysanthemum spat at him, “Stop wagging your tongue.” Xi Shiyi opened a chest, rummaged through the corners, and found a box. He opened it, saw the bracelets, put them in his pocket, and left without closing the chest. Chrysanthemum yelled, “What are you doing with my bracelets?” Xi Shiyi replied, “I’m just borrowing them to compare the color with something else; I’ll return them shortly.” He then called for Ba Yingguan and hurriedly left for Pintai’s place, thinking to himself, “If I can win him over, I’ll be the most popular man in the capital.”
Meanwhile, Pan San went to the monk’s room, where the monk told him about Xi Shiyi’s plan. Pan San was overjoyed, repeatedly calling it a brilliant idea, and stayed in the monk’s room to wait. He thought to himself, “Just sitting with this treasure and having a drink would be enough; I wouldn’t even think of teasing him. But if he wanted to tease me, I’d be more than willing. If he’s willing to tease me, he’d naturally let me tease him back too.” As he daydreamed, drool began to drip from his mouth, and he clenched his fists, pounding the back of his neck twice, letting out a few grunts from his nose. The monk, amused, asked, “What are you doing, Lord Pan? Is your neck hurting?” Pan San laughed.
Soon, Xi Shiyi’s servant brought over the dishes and asked to see Pintai. Pintai’s fourth son escorted him inside. The servant said, “My master asked me to bring these dishes to apologize to Master Qinyan. My master didn’t realize who he was before and deeply regrets offending him. He originally wanted to invite Master Qinyan over, but feared he might not be willing to honor the invitation, so he sent these dishes as a token of his respect and to make amends. Unfortunately, my master has some matters to attend to and can’t come in person.” Pintai smiled and said, “There was no need for your master to go to such trouble. When did he ever offend Master Qinyan? Such thoughtful words! I’ll accept these on his behalf and play the host. Please thank your master profusely.” He then gave the servant five hundred coins as a reward and turned to Qinyan, saying, “This is Lord Xi’s generous gesture for you. I’ve taken advantage of it. You should thank him too.” Qinyan, not understanding the situation, had no choice but to express his thanks. Pintai then instructed his fourth son to have the kitchen prepare the meal quickly so they could eat.
Within a short time, the meal was set up on a square table. Pintai said, “Even though it’s a simple meal, let’s have a drink.” Qinyan replied, “There’s no need, let’s just eat.” But Pintai insisted and handed him a cup, so Qinyan had no choice but to accept it and returned the gesture by offering a cup to Pintai. Pintai was overjoyed, feeling a rare sense of satisfaction at having Qinyan sit across from him. He casually made small talk to please Qinyan, trying to lift his spirits. He mentioned that Yuxiang hadn’t been going out lately to attend banquets or listen to operas and often asked him to convey to Qinyan that he shouldn’t worry about him, assuring him that he would gradually build connections with Young Master Hua and that they would naturally meet more often. Pintai’s main goal was to keep Qinyan there long enough for Xi Shiyi to arrive. However, Qinyan, eager to leave, neither drank the wine nor ate the food, sitting there uncomfortably as if on pins and needles.
Just as Qinyan was about to urge them to serve the meal, he heard footsteps approaching from the courtyard. The door creaked open, and Xi Shiyi entered. Upon seeing him, Qinyan became flustered and stood up. Pintai, smiling broadly, said, “Perfect timing! The host has come to accompany the guest.” Xi Shiyi smiled and said, “I knew you hadn’t finished eating yet, so I’ve come to sincerely offer Qinyan a drink.” He called Ba Yingguan to bring over a stool, and he sat facing south. Holding a pot in one hand and a cup in the other, he poured the wine and brought it directly to Qinyan’s lips. Qinyan felt awkward, unable to refuse but also unwilling to accept, his face turning bright red with embarrassment. Pintai urged him, “This is the host’s gesture of hospitality. If you can’t drink it all, just take a sip.” Qinyan had no choice but to accept the cup, took a sip, and then put it down, saying to Pintai, “I really can’t drink anymore. I’m already so full it’s uncomfortable. You should drink in my place.” He tried to leave, but Xi Shiyi grabbed his arm, saying, “My friend, you won’t even sit down now that I’m here? Are you deliberately trying to insult me? Go ask your young master; I’m a close family friend of his, so I’m not an outsider. Since you’re someone he cherishes, I consider you my younger brother. How can you leave just because I’ve arrived?” With a gentle but firm push, Xi Shiyi made Qinyan sit down again. As he spoke, his eyebrows moved in a menacing way, which was quite intimidating. Qinyan, remembering how he had experienced this before, was terrified, trembling with fear and losing all color in his face. He had no choice but to sit down. Xi Shiyi, very pleased with himself, asked for a teacup, drank a cup of wine, and picked up a piece of sea cucumber to offer to Qinyan. Qinyan, trying to suppress his anger, stood up and said, “Please enjoy it yourself; I really can’t eat anymore.” Xi Shiyi laughed and said, “You may not be able to eat other things, but this will go down smoothly without making you feel too full.” Qinyan, realizing that Xi Shiyi was mocking him, couldn’t help but feel his eyebrows start to rise in anger. Pintai nudged Xi Shiyi with his foot and said, “He probably really can’t eat anymore.” Xi Shiyi then said, “If you can’t eat it, I’ll eat it.” He then drank the wine Qinyan had left and smacked his lips, saying, “Good wine.”
Qinyan, now filled with both anger and frustration, struggled to maintain his composure. He thought to himself, “This scoundrel has bad intentions. I’m no longer a performer, so what can he do to me? If he’s rude, I’ll fight back.” Seeing Xi Shiyi pour another half cup of wine and place it in front of him, urging him to drink, Qinyan placed his hand over the cup and said to Pintai, “You know I don’t drink.” Xi Shiyi was about to insist when suddenly they heard hurried footsteps, and Pan San entered with the monk. Pan San shouted, “What a lucky coincidence! I’ve walked in on a great feast!” The monk added, “So, Master Wei is hosting a banquet, and I wasn’t even invited?” Pan San, bending over and hunching his shoulders, quickly moved forward, saying, “Let me offer a toast.” He took Qinyan’s cup and said, “This wine is cold; I’ll drink it for you.” He then drank it in one gulp, wiped the cup around his lips, poured another half cup, and handed it to Qinyan, bringing it directly to his mouth. Qinyan turned away, trying to leave, but found himself blocked by Pan San on one side and the monk on the other, unable to escape. He had no choice but to take the cup. Pan San still wouldn’t let go, trying to force the wine into Qinyan’s mouth. Qinyan, now angry, said, “I really can’t drink. Let go, and I’ll drink it slowly.” Pintai intervened, telling Pan San to sit down and said, “I really can’t force him. Let him drink it at his own pace.” Pan San reluctantly let go and sat down, while Pintai and the monk pulled up two stools and sat on the side. Qinyan, deeply offended by Pan San’s gesture of wiping the cup with his mouth, realized they were all in on the plan to humiliate him. Yet, fearing it might backfire on him if he retaliated, he suppressed his anger.
He picked up the cup, pretending to lose his grip, and with a loud crash, the cup shattered into pieces, spilling some wine on his clothes. He wiped it off with a cloth and said to Pintai, “I’m sorry, I was careless.” Pintai, understanding his feelings, responded, “It’s no big deal!”
He called for another cup, but Qinyan quickly said, “No need, no need. Even if you bring one, I won’t drink.” Xi Shiyi said, “That’s not possible; I won’t press you too much. Each of us will just offer you three cups.” Pan San had hoped that if Qinyan had drunk that cup, it would have been like kissing him directly, but now that the cup was broken, his mood was ruined. He wanted to offer another toast, but Pintai stopped him. The monk, oblivious, poured another half cup and said, “Amitabha, the Hua residence is a major benefactor of our little temple. The old lady once funded the gilding of the three Buddha statues, and the young madam sponsored the statue of Guanyin, donating three years’ worth of lamp oil. Now that a guest from their household is here, as a monk, I have nothing to offer but this small cup of wine. Master Qinyan, please accept this humble offering.” He handed the cup over, bowing, and chanted, “Namo Great Compassionate Bodhisattva Guanyin!” causing everyone to burst into laughter. Qinyan, seeing this, was both angry and amused, and his expression softened a bit as he said, “I really can’t drink. Please don’t force me.” The monk, smiling, said, “My dear Master Qinyan, I’ve just invoked the Buddha’s blessing on this cup. Drinking it will bring you a hundredfold blessings and a thousandfold good fortune. May you prosper and grow rich, earning a gold ingot every day.” His words made everyone laugh again, but Qinyan still refused to drink. The monk then wiped his own face, took off his felt hat, and said, “Master Qinyan, look at me. Don’t I have a human face? Or is it really the head of a chicken?” Qinyan, seeing his ridiculous appearance, couldn’t help but laugh. The monk said, “There, that’s better! Even the heavens have smiled. It seems my chicken head is stronger than a human brain!” Qinyan’s expression changed again upon hearing this.
The monk then said, “My dear sir, if you don’t drink this cup, I’ll be so ashamed that I’ll have no choice but to leave the monastic life tomorrow.” He then placed the cup on his bald head, knelt down, and rested his hands on Qinyan’s knees, chanting prayers without getting up, making everyone laugh heartily. Qinyan, finding himself cornered, reluctantly said, “Please get up, please get up. I’ll take a sip, but just this once.” He took the cup from the monk’s bald head, drank a sip, and then, thinking it better to avoid someone else drinking his leftover wine, decided to finish it in one go. He stood up to leave, but Xi Shiyi pushed him back down, and the monk clung to his legs, kneeling and knocking his head against Qinyan’s knees. Qinyan had no choice but to sit down again, now truly distressed, and said sternly, “What exactly do you all want from me today?” Pintai quickly intervened, saying, “No more drinking; let’s just talk.” He pulled the monk up. Qinyan said, “I have matters to attend to and can’t stay any longer.” He tried to leave again, but Xi Shiyi blocked his way, saying, “If you don’t want to drink, that’s fine, but at least sit for a while. What’s the rush?” Pintai then said, “Let’s bring the food quickly. We still have things to do.” Qinyan had no choice but to sit back down, seething with anger but forcing himself to endure it.
Xi Shiyi thought to himself, “This kid is really strange, so hard to deal with. If it weren’t for him, I would have cursed him out and forced him to comply by now. But because I care for him, he’s being this stubborn. It’s truly infuriating.” He continued to think, “They say he’s arrogant, and it seems to be true. But if I act too harshly, it might cause trouble with the Hua household. Besides, he’s no longer a performer, so I shouldn’t be making him drink.”
“Let’s give him the gift first; maybe after accepting it, he’ll change his mind,” Xi Shiyi thought. Pan San also thought, “This kid is even tougher than Su Huifang. It’s a pity I didn’t bring any money to offer him. If he gets some cash, maybe he’ll warm up to me.” Xi Shiyi then said, “I have something for you. Don’t think it’s too modest.” He reached into his pocket and pulled out a brocade box. When he opened it, there was a pair of flawless, translucent green jade bracelets that sparkled brilliantly.
Pan San stuck out his tongue in amazement and said, “What a treasure! Only you could have something like this. Where else could anyone find it? You couldn’t buy these jade bracelets in the city even for a thousand strings of cash.” He clicked his tongue in admiration. Pintai and the monk also stared in awe. Pintai thought to himself, “What a generous gift! Giving such a valuable item right off the bat—let’s see if he’ll accept it.” But Qinyan didn’t even look at the bracelets, keeping his head down. Xi Shiyi said, “Try them on. I guarantee they’ll fit perfectly.” He moved to put the bracelets on Qinyan.
Qinyan stood up, his expression serious, and said, “I absolutely cannot accept this. Besides, I never wear bracelets.” Without thinking, he extended a hand to show them, intending to indicate that he didn’t wear such things. But Xi Shiyi misunderstood, thinking Qinyan wanted him to help put the bracelets on, so he grabbed Qinyan’s arm and pulled him closer. He used too much force, and Qinyan, being delicate, lost his balance and fell into Xi Shiyi’s arms. Seizing the opportunity, Xi Shiyi embraced him, unable to resist smelling his face, and then, holding Qinyan’s hand, slipped one of the bracelets onto his wrist. When he reached for the second bracelet, Qinyan managed to pull away, tears streaming down his face as he began to cry. Forgetting all thoughts of propriety, he sobbed and shouted, “I don’t even know you! I’ve changed my profession, but you still treat me like some actor, humiliating me. I’ll go back and tell my master, and then we’ll see what happens!” With that, he bolted from the room.
Once outside in the courtyard, he hastily removed the bracelet and, with a strong swing, smashed it to pieces. The sound of the breaking jade echoed, and without looking back, he ran out as fast as he could. Xi Shiyi, now furious, cursed, “Ungrateful little bastard!” and was about to chase after him when Pintai desperately tried to hold him back. But Xi Shiyi, enraged, refused to listen, shouting and cursing loudly. Being tall and strong, Xi Shiyi was hard to restrain, so Pintai had to press his head against Xi Shiyi’s chest, repeatedly saying, “It’s all my fault! If you want to hit someone, hit me!” Meanwhile, Pan San and the monk added fuel to the fire, making the situation worse. Xi Shiyi, with Pintai blocking him, couldn’t move forward and realized that Qinyan had probably already fled the temple and gotten into his carriage, too far to chase down. He finally gave up, sitting down in a huff, breathing heavily, his eyes bulging in anger.
Ba Yingguan, who had been standing nearby with a smirk, went out into the courtyard and picked up the broken pieces of the bracelet. There were three segments, which he put together in his palm. He said, “I’ll spend three coins to have these three pieces set in gold, and then I’ll have a triple-set jade bracelet. I wonder if anyone will reward me for that.”
He placed the pieces in front of Xi Shiyi and said, “A thousand-string bracelet is now worth three thousand strings.” Seeing this, Xi Shiyi only grew more furious, cursing even louder. Pan San and the monk both lamented the loss, predicting that when Xi Shiyi returned home with only one bracelet, there would be a big commotion from his concubine, Chrysanthemum. It was like a toad dreaming of eating swan meat, never considering whether it deserved such fortune.
As for Qinyan, he climbed into his carriage, drew the curtains, and wept bitterly the entire way home. Upon arriving, he immediately took off his outer garments and lay down on his bed. The more he thought about it, the angrier he became, blaming himself for foolishly seeking out Pintai and bringing this disaster upon himself. He pulled the quilt over his head and cried for half the day, to the point of nearly contemplating suicide. What happened next will be revealed in the following chapter.