話說華公子自琴言告假之後，假期已滿，不見回來，心上有些思念他。
一日在園中歸鴻小渚倚闌垂釣，珊枝與金、玉二齡，還有一個小丫鬟香兒，在傍伺候。金齡找了一個大瓷甌，走下池邊貯了水。華公子釣了一回，得了三寸長的一個小魚，已覺滿心歡喜。見那池水清冷，每於瀠流洄互處，把些銅皮嵌在石腳，那流水過來便有▉琮之聲，如琴築一般。又見水面上飛了無數的花瓣，一個紅鯉魚游來游去，吃那飛花，見了釣絲上的餌，便來吞了。
華公子急把釣竿一拽，絲綸已斷，那魚連釣吞下半截，斷絲尚浮在水面。
公子看了，一時高興，便叫金齡、玉齡去將小船撐過來。
那二齡聽不得一聲，走下臺基，便飛跑的去了。過了橋，到了潭水房山對岸。金齡走忙了，不防腳碰著個老樹根，栽了一交，跌得膝蓋甚疼，蹲在地下站不起來。玉齡將他扶起，揉了幾揉，同下了船，解了纜。這小船也三丈餘長，油漆光亮，兩邊欄杆，船頭有個亭子，中艙擺個小花梨圓桌。船篷上是綠油布頂，垂下白綾飛沿。金齡、玉齡在兩頭蕩漿，蕩了過來。華公子見此春光明媚，桃李齊芳，即叫小丫鬟去請夫人出來逛園。
約有兩刻工夫，聽得環□▉▉，華夫人帶了明珠、花珠、荷珠、贈珠四個女婢過來，華公子笑面相迎。華夫人道：「這兩日天氣甚好，我本來也想逛逛。方才香兒說你在這裡釣魚，我從西書房夾道中走來，倒也不遠。我又叫老婆子收拾些食品過來。」華公子道：「我本有此意，你倒預先辦妥了。」二人憑闌觀玩了一會，華公子道：「我們何不下船逛逛池子？」四珠即扶了夫人慢慢的走下臺階，明珠，贈珠先上了船頭，挽住華夫人上了船。公子也上來，同夫人坐在中艙，明珠、贈珠即走到後稍，花珠、荷珠在頭，花珠把漿一撬，明珠把槳一推，兩頭不能應手，把個小船滴溜溜的在水中旋起來。花珠手又一脫，把水划得直濺，濺得自己一臉。荷珠笑個不住。華公子道：
「怎麼樣，你們也蕩過漿的，今日又不會蕩起來。」花珠笑道：「明珠不會蕩，我望前，他倒望後。」明珠道：「不說你不會，倒說我不會。荷珠，你蕩罷，再用著他，這個船就要翻了。」荷珠替了花珠，果然好了。清風徐來，漣漪深碧，慢慢的穿過小橋。公子與夫人看橋邊及山石上纏的古藤，蒙蒙茸茸，垂到水面，底下的水，一派清冷戛玉之聲，覺得心曠神怡。過了小橋，蘇堤上便是些楊柳桃花，紅綠相間，春風和煦，眾鳥齊鳴。過了幾處亭臺，又繞過了潭水房山，到了留仙院，見修竹裡一個院落，開了無數碧桃。華公子道：「此處最佳，就到留仙院去罷。」荷珠將船繫好，搭了跳板，華公子上了岸，四珠扶夫人，從桃花林下欹欹斜斜的一條路進去，也有幾個堆靈石。過了個小石樑，接著一個石門。進了石門，是個亭子，名為惜芳亭，過去就是留仙院的油廊。
到了留仙院，其有三進，迴廊曲榭，疊閣崇臺，甚為華麗，紅白碧桃已開了好些。公子對夫人道：「賞花不可無酒，方才說老婆子預備，不知可曾停妥？」華夫人命花珠去看來，花珠拉明珠同他弄船過去。明珠道：「你又來混纏，不過愛頑罷了，那裡真不認得路徑？你從這後頭走過古藤書屋，再過了猗香亭，就通方才來的路，要坐什麼船？」花珠原是愛頑，並非不認得路徑，只得獨自出去。將到藤花書屋前，只見林珊枝正走來，口中嚷道：「花姑娘來了，想必在留仙院了。」花珠待要問時，只見藤花架邊走出一群人來，是六珠並兩個老婆子，還有幾個小丫鬟。愛珠對花珠道：「在什麼地方，你也不給個信，叫我們滿園的瞎找。」花珠道：「我們是坐船過去的，還到不多時，有人在岸上也應瞧得見。此刻原是來找你們的。」那兩個婆子抬了食箱，六珠婢也拿了零碎物件，還有二齡及珊枝幫忙。送到留仙院後，一一佈置了，群珠上前送了茶，一邊桌上擺了果盒，一邊擺了食盒，茶鐺、酒器都已預備，群珠分作兩行侍立。
只見那些蝴蝶一群一群的飛來飛去，又有些睡在花裡不動，被十珠婢捉了好些，在小丫頭頭上撥了一根頭髮，拴了兩個大蝴蝶，雙雙的飛舞。
華公子看得高興，對夫人道：「如此春光，不可不賞。這些蝴蝶兒倒比我們還頑得熱鬧。這園中最多的要算桃花，我們也該祭他一祭，何不取那百花露釀的竹葉春酒來，澆灌他一番。」
華夫人道：「我知道你愛這酒，已叫他們帶了些來，但是沒有什麼很好的果品。既是祭花，這些食物，都用不著，你想將什麼祭好呢？」公子笑道：「我倒被你問住了。年年祭花，也不過是些蔬果之類。這番是我們虔誠特祭，須得與花相稱才好。」
想了一想，叫愛珠去問珊枝找管屋的書童要了鑰匙來。不一會，愛珠取了進來，公子叫他開了兩個博古廚，攜著夫人細細看那廚中，盡是古銅、舊玉等物。又將抽屜一開，見有一個紫檀木匣，開了蓋子，看是個手卷，簽上寫著「花蕊夫人小像，管夫人畫」。華夫人笑道：「這個就很好。」公子扯開看時，是個絹本工筆，畫得秀豔絕倫。後有趙集賢書的小楷，就寫的花蕊夫人《宮詞》，真是雙絕。公子道：「可惜就這一樣，再找些什麼配上呢？」華夫人道：「馬四娘的蘭花，可以不可以？」公子搖頭道：「配不上，還是李香君那個桃花扇的冊頁罷，再將你繡的《玉臺新詠序》來配上更好。」華夫人笑道：「怎麼配上這個？如何稱得過那兩種？」公子道：「這是各人的好處。況且你那刺繡工夫，也算絕頂了。」華夫人就命寶珠、愛珠取這兩樣來。二珠去了，也有好一會才來，又找了個漢玉觴，貯了一觴酒，將桌子抬到廊前，擺了這三樣寶貝，再將博山爐焚了百合香。華夫人道：「怎樣，要拜不要拜呢？」華公子道：「不用拜罷。我們去揀頂好的花，將這酒去澆在他根上罷。」二人就走到林下，公子揀了一棵紅碧桃，夫人揀了一棵白碧桃，公子先澆了半杯，夫人也澆了。二人笑盈盈的在花下賞玩。
華夫人叫老婆子再去取一大瓶酒來，不要耽擱。公子道：「要這許多酒做什麼？」夫人笑道：「我看這些丫頭們見我們澆了花，覺得好饞似的，所以我要些酒來，也叫他們頑頑。」
公子笑道：「這叫做與人同來。但是他們祭花是要拜的，不好同我們一樣。」十珠都微微笑起來。掌珠對荷珠低低說道：「要拜我們十個一同拜，不要分先後，省得先拜的叫後拜的笑。」愛珠道：「我們一對一對的拜不好嗎？」花珠湊著愛珠的耳說道：「又不是夫妻拜堂，怎麼你要一對對的拜呢？」愛珠打他一下。已見老婆子顫巍巍的拎了一大瓶酒來，放在廊下。十珠等各拿了小酒杯斟了酒，分頭去覓那開得鮮豔的，你一杯我一杯的亂澆，走來穿去，也像一群穿花蝴蝶一樣，果然齊齊的拜了四拜。
公子、夫人看了，好不快樂。華公子叫取兩個錦褥來，就鋪在花下，與夫人對面坐了。擺了攢盒，把那百花春對飲了幾杯。華夫人道：「何不叫他們吹唱一回，以盡雅興。」公子道：「很好，你就分派他們唱起來。」夫人將十珠分了五對，吩咐道：「你們各揀一枝，總要有句桃花在裡頭的。我派定了對，不是此唱彼吹，就是彼吹此唱。若唱錯了，吹錯了，要跪在花下，罰酒一大杯。」愛珠笑道：「奶奶這個令，未免太苦了。況且我們會唱的也有限，譬如這人會唱這一枝，那人又不會吹那一枝。那人會吹那一枝，這人又不會唱這一枝，如何合得來？今奶奶預先派定了這個吹，那個唱，我們十個人竟齊齊的跪在花下，喝了這半大瓶的冷酒就結了。」說得公子、夫人都笑。
夫人道：「既如此，方才題目原難些，曲文中有桃花句子也少。你們十人接著唱那《桃花扇》上的《訪翠》、《眠香》兩出罷。」
公子聽了，笑道：「這個最好，這曲文我也記得，兩套共十一枝，有短的並作一枝，便是一人唱一枝了。」叫拿些墊子，鋪在惜芳亭前，與他們坐了好唱。
十珠也甚高興，即拿了弦笛、鼓板，我推你，你推我，推了一會，推定了是寶珠先唱。寶珠唱道：
金粉未消亡，聞得六朝香，滿天涯煙草斷人腸。怕催花信緊，風風雨雨，誤了春光。《緱山月》
望平康，鳳城東、千門綠楊。一路紫絲韁，引游郎，誰家乳燕雙雙。
隔春波，碧煙染窗；何晴天，紅杏窺牆。一帶板橋長，閒指點茶寮酒舫。
聽聲聲、賣花忙，穿過了條條深巷。插一枝帶露柳嬌黃。《錦纏道》
公子道：「這曲文實在好，可以追步《玉茗堂四夢》，真才子之筆。」夫人道：「以後唯《紅雪樓九種》可以匹敵，餘皆不及。」只聽明珠接著唱道：
結羅帕，煙花雁行，逢令節，齊鬥新妝。有海錯、江瑤、玉液漿。相當，竟飛來捧觴，密約在鞭蓉錦帳。《朱奴剔銀燈》
公子道：「該打。少唱了『撥琴阮，笙簫嘹亮』一句。」掌珠接唱道：
端詳，窗明院敞，早來到溫柔睡鄉。鸞笙鳳管雲中響，弦悠揚，玉玎▉一聲聲亂我柔腸。翱翔雙鳳凰。海南異品風飄蕩，要打著美人心上癢。《雁過聲》
掌珠一面唱，一面將帕子打了一個結，望荷珠臉上打來。
荷珠嗤的一笑，公子喝了一聲采，夫人也嫣然微笑。二人各飲了一杯，聽荷珠唱道：
誤走到巫峰上，添了些行雲想。
匆匆忘卻仙模樣。春宵花月休成謊，良緣到手難推讓，準備著身赴高唐。《小桃紅》
《訪翠》唱完了，愛珠接唱《眠香》，唱道：
短短春衫雙捲袖，調箏花裡迷樓。今朝全把繡簾鉤，不教金線柳，遮斷木蘭舟。《臨江仙》
公子笑道：「這等妙曲，當要白香山的樊素唱來，方稱得這妙句。」夫人笑道：「樊素如何能得？就是他們也還將就，比外頭那些班中生旦就強多了。」公子點頭道：「是」。見贈珠唱道：
園桃紅似繡，豔覆文君酒；屏開金孔雀，圍春晝。滌了金甌，點著噴香獸。這當罏紅袖，太溫柔，應與相如消受。《一枝花》
花珠一面打鼓板，一面接唱道：
齊梁詞賦，陳隋花柳，日日芳情迤逗。青衫偎倚，今番小杜揚州。尋思描黛，指點吹簫，從此春入手。秀才渴病急須救，偏是斜陽遲下樓，剛飲得一杯酒。《梁州序》
公子對夫人道：「如此麗句，不可不浮一大白。」將大杯斟了，叫寶珠敬夫人一杯。寶珠擎杯雙膝跪下，夫人道：「我量淺不能飲這大杯，還請自飲罷。」遂把這大杯內酒倒出一小杯來，叫寶珠送與公子。寶珠又跪到公子面前，公子一口乾了。
明珠折了兩枝紅白桃花，拿個汝窯瓶插了，放在公子、夫人面前。又見珍珠唱道：
樓臺花顫，簾櫳風抖，倚著雄姿英秀。春情無限，金釵重與梳頭。
閒花添豔，野草生香，消得夫人做。今宵燈影紗紅透，見慣司空也應羞，破題兒真難就。《前腔》
公子道：「這『見慣司空也應羞』之句，豈常人道得出來？」夫人道：「與『今番小杜揚州』句，真是同一妙筆。」見蕊珠唱起，寶珠合著唱道：
金樽佐酒籌，勸不休，沉沉玉倒黃昏後。私攜手，眉黛愁，香肌瘦。
春宵一刻天長久，人前怎解芙蓉扣。盼到燈昏玳筵收，宮壺滴盡蓮花漏。《節節高》
畫珠接唱，明珠合著唱道：
笙簫下畫樓，度清謳，迷離燈火如春晝。天臺岫，逢阮劉，真佳偶。
重重錦帳香熏透，旁人妒得眉頭皺，酒態扶人太風波，貪花福分生來有。《前腔》
秦淮煙月無新舊，脂香粉膩滿東流，夜夜春情散不收。
《尾聲》唱完，公子與夫人甚是歡喜，十珠齊齊站起。公子道：「今日倒難為他們，須要賞他們些東西。」華夫人道：「此中要定個等第，才見賞罰分明。」即叫拿筆硯過來。愛珠搶先取了筆硯、花箋，送到公子面前。公子讓夫人品定，夫人又推公子，公子道：「這音律中實在我不如你，恐定得不公，還是你定罷。」夫人微笑，把筆先寫了十個字，就是珠字上面那個字，對公子道：「據我評來，以寶珠為第一，唱得風神跌宕，文秀溫存，十人中是他壓卷了。次則愛珠，情韻皆到，為第二。次贈珠，次掌珠，次蕊珠，次珍珠，次花珠，次荷珠，次畫珠，次明珠。不知定得不委屈麼？」公子道：「定得極是。」夫人又問十珠婢道：「如有委屈，不妨自說。」花珠陪著笑道：「奴才唱的，似乎在蕊珠、珍珠之上。」華夫人道：「就是你不服，你那裡知道自己唱的毛病。你想顯己之長，壓人之短，添出些腔調來，此所謂戲曲，非清曲。清曲要唱得雅，洗盡鉛華，方見得清真本色。你唱慣了搭白的戲曲，所以一時洗不乾淨。若不會聽的，怕不定你第一？」花珠方才服了，因又問道：「奶奶聽珊枝的怎樣？」華夫人道：「珊枝也是戲曲，倒是琴言雖然生些，還得清字意。」
公子聽說琴言，便對夫人道：「琴言這個孩子，實在有些古怪。我們待他也算好了，看他心上總像有些委屈。如今告假一個多月，也不見他進來。其實看他也不像那種下作的，不知為什麼心上總不喜歡，我實想不出來。」華夫人道：「我看這孩子，大抵是個高傲性子，像不是肯居人下的光景。但不知自己落到這個地位，也就無法。所謂『做此官，行此禮』，若妄自高傲，也真是糊塗人了。」華公子笑而不語。夫人賞那十珠的，記了一等是釵環，二等是香粉。
那跟來的兩個老婆子，遠遠的把那瓶冷酒偷吃了一半。一個老婆子已醺醺的歪靠著山石，坐在地下，將要睡著。那一個側著耳朵聽話，卻又聽不真。
見愛珠走來，問道：「姑娘，奶奶與你們講些什麼？又見他寫單子。」愛珠笑道：「要賞給我們東西。」那老婆子道：「你們姑娘們實在福分大，常常得賞賜。我們一天勞到黑，也沒有格外得過一點好東西。姑娘，如今賞下來，你不要的給我，不要給那些小丫頭糟蹋了。」愛珠一笑走開。那個小丫頭叫香兒的笑道：「他們還沒有到手，你倒想他轉賞了你。我明日買個沙弔子送你，好裝燒酒，省得你那個沒有把子，要倒拿著嘴使。你要想別的東西，你也配？」那老婆子被香兒取笑了，又不敢罵他，只得鼓起了眼睛，瞅了他一眼。那一個老婆子低低歎口氣道：「咳，從來說人老珠黃不值錢，你還同他們一般見識呢？」這邊華公子忽然念那《牡丹亭》上的兩句道：「良辰美景奈何天，賞心樂事誰家院。」華夫人笑道：「《牡丹亭》的《遊園驚夢》，可稱旖旎風光，香溫玉軟。但我讀曲時，想那柳夢梅的光景似乎配不上麗娘。」公子道：「我也這麼想，覺柳夢梅有些粗氣，自然不及麗娘。至於那《元人百種曲》只可唱戲，斷不可讀。若論文采詞華，這些曲本只配一火而焚之。
偏有那些人贊不絕口，不過聽聽音節罷了，這個曲文何能贊得一句好的出來？」華夫人道：「我想從前未唱時，或者倒好些。都是唱的人要他合這工尺，所以處處點金成鐵。不是我說，那些曲本，不過算個工尺的字譜，文理之順逆，氣韻之雅俗，也全不講究了。有曲文好些的，偏又沒人會唱。從那《九宮譜》一定之後，人人只會改字換音，不會移宮就譜，也是世間一件缺事。」公子道：「真是妙論！我想對此名花，又聽妙曲，意欲填首小詞，也叫他們唱唱。雖然比不上《桃花扇》的妙文，也是各人遣興，你道何如？」華夫人道：「很好，何不就填那《梁州序》，用他的工尺，唱我們的新詞，不省事麼？」公子道：「妙，妙！你就先填。」夫人笑道：「我如何能？還是你先來，我算和韻罷。」公子應了，喝了幾杯酒，想了一會，寫出一首《梁州序》來，遞與夫人，夫人念道：
明霞成綺，冰綃如翦，萬種柔情輕倩。良辰美景，烏紗紅袖相憐。
羞他仙子，閒引遊人，私把凡心遣。春光一刻千金賤，珠箔銀屏即洞天，休負了，金樽淺。
夫人念完，贊不絕口。自己也飲了一小杯，笑道：「這是我遵你的教，『休負了金樽淺』。但這原唱如此好，教我怎和得出來。就在《桃花扇》上，也是上上的好文字，細膩風光，識高意穩。我不做罷。」公子笑道：「你不要謙讓。你必定另有妙想，我想不到的，快寫出來，好叫他們唱。」夫人又念了一遍，贊了幾聲，也就寫了一闋，遞與公子念道：
簾櫳半漾，樓臺全見，絳雪飛瓊爭豔。清歌小拍，明眸皓齒生妍。
華年如水，綠葉成蔭，肯把春光賤？石家金谷花開遍，只羨鴛鴦不羨仙，休負了，金樽淺。
公子念了又念，朗吟了幾遍，拍案叫絕，又說道：「這兩首比起來，我的就減色了。這五十七字如香雲繚繞，花雨繽紛，就是《桃花扇》中也無此麗句。」夫人笑道：「這是你謬贊，我看是不及你的。你如此贊賞，倒教我不安。」公子道：「『只羨鴛鴦不羨仙』雖是成句，但用來比原作還好，也不能教崔鴛鴦、鄭鷓鴣得名了。」即叫寶珠、愛珠過來念熟了好唱。
二珠念了幾遍熟了，唱了兩句，錯起板來。夫人道：「還不熟，你將工尺注在旁邊，倒是看著唱罷。」寶珠、愛珠將工尺寫了出來，果然一字字唱去，卻很對腔，聽得夫人、公子快樂非常。公子笑道：「這兩枝曲子，倒定了我們的生旦了。你何不唱唱。這裡唱，外人斷乎聽不見的。」夫人笑道：「你見我幾時會唱？」公子道：「你真不會唱，何以其中的深微奧妙都知道，且人偶然唱錯了一板，你總聽得出來。」夫人笑道：「三天兩天的聽，難道還聽不熟麼？」公子道：「其實我也很熟，往往的不留心，錯了竟聽不出來，大約總是粗心之過。」
夫人道：「你何不唱唱？」公子道：「我一人唱也無趣。」夫人道：「叫寶珠和你唱。況『休負了金樽淺』這句是要合唱的。」公子道：「不唱罷，明日我們多填幾闋，成了一套《賞花》。叫他們扮作你我，串他一齣，叫做《祭花》何如？」夫人道：「這倒沒趣味，串出來也像那《賞荷》一樣。不過那十珠丫頭，倒好扮些淨丑出來取笑，然而也覺俗了。」公子笑道：「若要扮丑腳的，只有花珠可以扮得。」花珠聽了，紅起臉來，扭轉頭，對著愛珠道：「還有愛珠也可扮得。」愛珠尚未開言，公子道：「愛珠是貼旦，畫珠是老旦，寶珠是正旦，蕊珠是小旦。其餘扮生、淨、外、末，比八齡又強了。」夫人道：「這倒可以，只怕他們害羞，做不出來。」夫人一面說，一面看那桃花，映著夕陽，紅的更如霞如錦，白的成了粉色，又有些如金色一般，分外好看，看看天色也將晚了，便對公子道：「今日也可算盡興，我有些乏了，進去罷。」便站起來，公子也起身。華夫人帶了十珠等，將花蕊夫人的像與《桃花扇》，並他繡的《玉臺新詠序》，都帶進去，公子也同了夫人緩緩而行。到古藤書屋，又進去略坐了一坐。到了猗香亭，山石路徑，險仄難行，群珠扶好了夫人，一步一步的走過。前面是一條青石荔枝街，平正得很的，又過三四處樓臺，便進內室。園裡這兩個老婆子收拾東西，雖有兩個小丫頭幫著他，一次也還拿不完。來時有六珠幫他拿些，如今只得央求珊枝、金齡、玉齡幫他拿了幾樣。
兩個老婆子跌跌撞撞的走了好一刻工夫，才到裡面。
這邊華公子直送夫人到房內坐了，又將方才填的詞看了一會，同吃了晚飯。忽又高興，到了洗紅軒，因想起琴言如何還不進來，像已過了假期了，即叫小丫頭去喚珊枝進來。小丫頭去了一會，同了珊枝上前。公子問道：「琴言是那天告假的？」珊枝道：「正月二十四日。」公子道：「正月二十四日，今日已是三月初二了。他告一個月假，怎麼過了七八在還不回來？」
珊枝不言語，停了一停，又說道：「想必有事，自然要完了事才進來。」公子道：「我想他也沒有什麼事，明日叫人出城找他，問他幾時進來。」珊枝答應了。
公子又問了些別的話，也就進去。不知後事如何，且聽下回分解。
After Master Hua took leave from Qin Yan, the set leave had expired, but he hadn’t returned, which made Hua feel a bit longing for him.
One day, while Hua was fishing at a small islet in the garden, leaning on the railings at Guihong, he was accompanied by Shan Zhi, along with Jin Ling, Yu Ling, and a little maid named Xiang’er. Jin Ling took a large porcelain bowl, walked down to the pool, and filled it with water. Hua fished for a while and caught a small fish about three inches long, which filled him with joy. The water in the pond was clear and cool, and where the currents swirled and converged, copper plates had been embedded at the base of the rocks. As the water passed over, it produced a sound like a bell, similar to the notes of a zither. On the surface of the water, countless flower petals floated. A red carp swam back and forth, eating the falling petals. It noticed the bait on Hua’s fishing line and came forward to swallow it.
Hua quickly pulled on the fishing rod, but the line snapped. The fish swallowed half of the bait along with the hook, and the broken line floated on the water’s surface.
Seeing this, Hua felt excited and immediately called Jin Ling and Yu Ling to fetch a small boat.
Without delay, the two ran down the steps, across the bridge, and reached the opposite shore near the pond house. Jin Ling, in her haste, tripped over an old tree root and fell, hurting her knee so badly she couldn’t get up. Yu Ling helped her to her feet, rubbed her knee, and they both went down to the boat and untied the ropes. The small boat, more than ten feet long, gleamed with fresh paint. It had railings on both sides, a small pavilion at the bow, and a pearwood round table set up in the middle cabin. The boat’s canopy was made of green oilcloth, with white silk curtains hanging down. Jin Ling and Yu Ling began rowing, and they brought the boat over. Hua saw the spring sunshine and the blooming peach and plum trees, and he asked the little maid to invite the madam to come and tour the garden.
After about two quarters of an hour, the sound of jewelry clinking could be heard, and Madam Hua arrived, accompanied by four maids: Mingzhu, Huazhu, Hezhu, and Zengzhu. Hua greeted her with a smile. Madam Hua said, “The weather has been lovely these past two days. I was thinking of taking a stroll. When Xiang’er told me you were here fishing, I came over from the west study. It’s not too far. I also asked the old woman to prepare some food.” Hua replied, “I had the same thought, but you’ve prepared it already.” The two of them leaned on the railings and admired the scenery for a while. Then Hua suggested, “Why don’t we get on the boat and tour the pond?” The four maids helped Madam Hua slowly descend the steps. Mingzhu and Zengzhu boarded the boat first and helped Madam Hua onto it. Hua also got on, sitting with Madam Hua in the middle cabin. Mingzhu and Zengzhu went to the back of the boat, while Huazhu and Hezhu were at the front. Huazhu pushed the oar, and Mingzhu pulled it, but their coordination was off, and the boat began spinning in circles on the water. Huazhu lost her grip, and water splashed onto her face, making Hezhu laugh uncontrollably. Hua said:
“What’s wrong? You’ve rowed before, but today you can’t manage it.” Huazhu laughed and said, “Mingzhu doesn’t know how to row. I’m facing forward, but she’s facing backward.” Mingzhu retorted, “Don’t say you don’t know how, and blame me for it. Hezhu, you row, or else this boat will tip over.” Hezhu took over from Huazhu, and sure enough, things went smoothly. A gentle breeze stirred the deep, green ripples, and they slowly passed under a small bridge. Hua and Madam Hua admired the ancient vines that clung to the rocks along the shore, trailing down to the water’s surface. The clear, cool water below made a sound like jade striking against each other, filling their hearts with a sense of serenity and joy. After crossing the small bridge, they passed through willows and peach blossoms, with the red and green hues intermingling, while birds chirped harmoniously in the warm spring breeze. After passing several pavilions, they rounded the pond and the rocky hills and arrived at the Liuxian Courtyard. They saw a courtyard amidst the bamboo grove, with countless peach blossoms in bloom. Hua remarked, “This place is the best. Let’s go to Liuxian Courtyard.” Hezhu tied the boat securely, set up the plank, and Hua stepped ashore. The four maids helped Madam Hua up and led her along a winding path under the peach trees, where there were a few piles of strange rocks. They crossed a small stone bridge and came to a stone gate. Entering the gate, they found a pavilion named Xifang Pavilion, beyond which lay the winding corridors of Liuxian Courtyard.
Liuxian Courtyard had three sections, with winding corridors, curved eaves, and grand terraces. It was lavishly decorated, and many red and white peach blossoms were already in bloom. Hua said to Madam Hua, “You can’t enjoy the flowers without wine. You said earlier that the old woman was preparing things. Has she finished?” Madam Hua sent Huazhu to check, and Huazhu pulled Mingzhu along to row the boat back. Mingzhu said, “You’re just trying to fool around again. It’s not like you don’t know the way. You can walk through the ancient vine study behind us, past the Yixiang Pavilion, and you’ll reach the same road we took earlier. Why take the boat?” Huazhu, who loved to play, indeed knew the way, but had no choice but to go alone. When she reached the area in front of the vine-flower study, she saw Lin Shanzhi approaching, shouting, “Miss Hua is here! You must be at Liuxian Courtyard already.” Just as Huazhu was about to ask, she saw a group of people emerging from the vine trellis: the six maids, two old women, and several little maids. Aizhu said to Huazhu, “Where have you been? You didn’t send any message, and we’ve been searching the entire garden in vain.” Huazhu replied, “We came by boat, and it didn’t take long. Someone should have seen us from the shore. I was just coming to find you.” The two old women carried the food boxes, while the six maids brought miscellaneous items. Jin Ling, Yu Ling, and Shanzhi also helped. Once they arrived at Liuxian Courtyard, everything was arranged. The maids presented tea, setting up fruit boxes on one table and food boxes on another. The tea kettle and wine vessels were prepared, and the maids stood in two rows, ready to serve.
Groups of butterflies fluttered back and forth, while others lay motionless in the flowers, asleep. The ten maids caught quite a few butterflies, and they tied two large butterflies with a strand of hair, making them flutter together above the heads of the little maids.
Hua Gongzi, delighted by the sight, said to his wife, “Such beautiful spring scenery must be appreciated. These butterflies are having even more fun than we are. The garden is filled with peach blossoms, and we should honor them. Why don’t we get some of the bamboo leaf spring wine brewed from a hundred flowers and pour it over the peach blossoms as an offering?”
Madam Hua responded, “I know you love that wine, so I’ve already asked them to bring some. However, we don’t have any particularly good fruits. Since this is an offering to the flowers, the usual food won’t suffice. What do you think we should offer instead?” Hua Gongzi laughed, “You’ve stumped me. Every year, we make offerings to the flowers, usually with fruits and vegetables. But since we’re doing this with such sincerity today, we should match the offerings to the flowers’ beauty.”
After thinking for a moment, he called Ai Zhu to ask Shan Zhi to get the key from the bookboy who managed the storeroom. Before long, Ai Zhu brought the key, and Hua Gongzi instructed her to open two antique cabinets. He and his wife carefully examined the contents, which were full of ancient bronzes and old jade artifacts. He then opened a drawer and found a small box made of purple sandalwood. Opening the lid, they saw a scroll inside, with a label that read, “Portrait of Lady Hua Rui, painted by Lady Guan.” Madam Hua smiled and said, “This one is perfect.” Hua Gongzi unrolled the scroll, revealing a meticulously painted silk portrait of exceptional elegance and beauty. On the back was a small script written by Zhao Jixian, which included a poem from Lady Hua Rui’s Palace Poems, a masterpiece in both painting and calligraphy. Hua Gongzi said, “It’s a shame we only have this one item. What else could we pair with it?” Madam Hua suggested, “What about the orchid painting by Lady Ma Siniang?” Hua Gongzi shook his head, “It doesn’t quite match. Let’s use the Peach Blossom Fan album by Li Xiangjun, and we can also add the New Songs from the Jade Terrace that you embroidered. That would be perfect.” Madam Hua laughed, “How could that match? How does it compare to those two?” Hua Gongzi replied, “Each piece has its own merit. Besides, your embroidery skills are top-notch.” Madam Hua then instructed Bao Zhu and Ai Zhu to retrieve the two items. The maids left and returned after a while, bringing a jade goblet from the Han Dynasty, which they filled with wine. They set up a table in the corridor, arranging the three treasures on it, and lit some lily incense in a Boshan incense burner. Madam Hua asked, “So, are we going to make a formal offering or not?” Hua Gongzi replied, “There’s no need for a formal ritual. Let’s just pick the best flowers and pour the wine over their roots.”
The two of them walked to the grove. Hua Gongzi selected a red peach blossom tree, while Madam Hua chose a white peach blossom. Hua Gongzi poured half a cup of wine over the roots, and Madam Hua did the same. Smiling, the two of them admired the flowers under the trees.
Madam Hua called the old woman to fetch another large bottle of wine, instructing her not to delay. Hua Gongzi asked, “Why do we need so much wine?” Madam Hua laughed, “I noticed that the maids looked envious when they saw us pouring wine on the flowers, so I thought I’d get some wine for them to have some fun, too.”
Hua Gongzi laughed, “This is truly sharing the experience with everyone. But if they’re offering to the flowers, they should perform the full ritual and make formal bows. It wouldn’t be proper to do it the same way we did.” The ten maids smiled. Zhang Zhu quietly said to He Zhu, “If we’re going to make formal bows, we should all bow together, so that none of us can laugh at the others for bowing first.” Ai Zhu suggested, “Why don’t we bow in pairs?” Hua Zhu whispered into Ai Zhu’s ear, “It’s not a wedding ceremony, so why would you want to bow in pairs?” Ai Zhu playfully hit her. By this time, the old woman had arrived, carefully carrying a large bottle of wine, which she placed in the corridor. The ten maids each took a small wine cup, filled it with wine, and went off in different directions to find the most vibrant flowers. They poured wine over the roots, one cup after another, moving around like a swarm of butterflies. In the end, they all bowed four times to the flowers.
Hua Gongzi and Madam Hua watched with great joy. Hua Gongzi called for two silk cushions, which they placed under the flowers, where he and Madam Hua sat facing each other. They set out a tray of snacks and enjoyed several cups of the spring wine brewed from a hundred flowers. Madam Hua said, “Why don’t we ask them to sing a few songs to enhance the mood?” Hua Gongzi replied, “That’s a great idea. Go ahead and assign them their roles.” Madam Hua divided the ten maids into five pairs and instructed them, “Each of you must choose a song that includes lines about peach blossoms. I’ll assign the pairs. One of you will sing, and the other will play. If you sing or play the wrong notes, you’ll have to kneel under the flowers and drink a large cup of wine as punishment.” Ai Zhu laughed and said, “Madam, your rule is a bit too harsh. Besides, we only know a limited number of songs. One person might know how to sing one song, but the other might not know how to play it. Or, one might know how to play, but the other doesn’t know how to sing that particular song. How can we get it right? With your prearranged roles, all ten of us will end up kneeling under the flowers, drinking cold wine until we’ve finished the entire bottle.” Her words made Hua Gongzi and Madam Hua burst into laughter.
Madam Hua said, “In that case, since the original challenge was too difficult, and there aren’t many songs with lines about peach blossoms, you can just perform Visiting Cui and Sleeping Fragrance from the Peach Blossom Fan instead.”
Hua Gongzi, upon hearing this, laughed and said, “This is perfect. I remember this song well. There are eleven parts in total, with some shorter ones combined into a single part. So, each person can sing one part.” He ordered cushions to be brought and laid in front of the Xifang Pavilion so that the maids could sit comfortably while singing.
The ten maids were also very excited. They grabbed their instruments—flutes and drums—and after some playful nudging and pushing among themselves, they decided that Baozhu would sing first. Baozhu began singing:
“Gold dust has not faded away, the fragrance of the Six Dynasties lingers. Across the horizon, the smoke of distant fields tugs at the heart. The winds and rains rush in, hastening the message to the flowers, but alas, they have spoiled the spring.” (Goushan Yue)
“Looking towards Pingkang, in the east of the Phoenix City, thousands of green willows line the gates. A purple-reined bridle leads the traveler, and in whose house do the young swallows fly in pairs?”
“Across the spring waves, green smoke dyes the windows; on this clear day, red apricots peek over the walls. Along the long plank bridge, one leisurely points to the teahouses and wine shops.”
“Listening to the busy sounds of flower sellers, passing through deep alleys. Inserting a dew-laden willow branch, a tender yellow.” (Jinchandao)
Hua Gongzi remarked, “This song is truly wonderful. It could rival the Four Dreams of Yuming Hall. A true scholar’s work.” Madam Hua added, “Only the Nine Varieties of Red Snow Hall can compare to it; everything else falls short.” Just then, Mingzhu followed with her song:
“Tying a silk handkerchief, amidst fireworks and flying geese. At the festival, everyone competes with new makeup. Delicacies from the sea and river, with jade-like nectar. How fitting it is when they come flying, offering a toast, with secret rendezvous in the fragrant silk tent.” (Zhunu Picking the Silver Lamp)
Hua Gongzi interrupted, “You’re in trouble! You missed the line ‘Plucking the qin and ruan, the sheng and xiao echo brightly.’” Zhangzhu then continued with the song:
“Carefully observing, the bright windows and spacious courtyard lead early to the gentle land of dreams. The sounds of phoenix flutes and luan pipes resonate through the clouds. The strings softly sing, and the sound of jade tinkling stirs my tender heart. Two phoenixes soar in the sky. Exotic breezes from Hainan stir the air, teasing the beauty’s heart.” (The Passing of Wild Geese)
As Zhangzhu sang, she playfully tied a knot in her handkerchief and threw it at Hezhu’s face, making Hezhu giggle. Hua Gongzi applauded loudly, and Madam Hua smiled gracefully. They each took a sip of wine as Hezhu began her song:
“By mistake, I walked up Mount Wu, bringing with me thoughts of drifting clouds. In my hurry, I forgot the look of the immortal. Let not the spring night with flowers and the moon be a lie. A good match has come my way, hard to refuse. I’m ready to meet my fate in Gaotang.” (Little Peach Blossom)
After finishing the part Visiting Cui, Aizhu began to sing Sleeping Fragrance:
“The short spring jacket has its sleeves rolled up, plucking the zither amidst the flowers, lost in a dream. This morning, I fully raised the embroidered curtain hook, not allowing the golden willow threads to block the magnolia boat.” (Immortal at the River)
Hua Gongzi laughed and said, “For such a marvelous song, it would take someone like Fan Su of Bai Xiangshan to sing it perfectly.” Madam Hua laughed and replied, “How could we get Fan Su? Even these maids are quite adequate, far better than those actors in the theater troupes outside.” Hua Gongzi nodded in agreement, saying, “Indeed.” Next, Zengzhu sang:
“The garden’s peach blossoms are as red as embroidery, their beauty filling Wenjun’s wine cups. The golden peacock screen opens, encircling the day with spring. The golden goblets have been washed clean, and the fragrant incense burner has been lit. This soft, gentle touch should be enjoyed by Xiangru.” (A Branch of Flowers)
Huazhu, while beating the drum, followed with her song:
“Poetry and prose from the Qi and Liang dynasties, the flowers and willows of the Chen and Sui. Day by day, the fragrance of love continues to linger. Leaning against green robes, now Little Du wanders in Yangzhou. Reflecting on past beauty, playing the flute, from this moment, spring is in my hands. The scholar’s thirst is urgent, in need of relief, but the setting sun seems reluctant to descend the stairs, just as I finish a cup of wine.” (Liangzhou Prelude)
Hua Gongzi said to his wife, “Such beautiful lines deserve to be honored with a large cup of wine.” He filled a large cup and asked Baozhu to offer it to his wife. Baozhu, holding the cup, knelt down on both knees. Madam Hua said, “My tolerance for alcohol is low, so I cannot drink this large cup. Please drink it yourself.” She then poured some of the wine from the large cup into a small one and instructed Baozhu to give it to Hua Gongzi. Baozhu then knelt before Hua Gongzi, who drank it in one gulp.
Mingzhu broke off two branches of red and white peach blossoms, placed them in a Ruyao vase, and set it before Hua Gongzi and Madam Hua. Then Zhenzhu began to sing:
“The flowers tremble on the tower, the wind shakes the curtains, leaning on a figure of heroic elegance. The endless feelings of spring, the golden hairpin is once again used to arrange her hair.”
“The idle flowers bloom even more beautifully, wild grasses give off their fragrance, befitting a lady. Tonight, the lamplight glows softly through the gauze. Even a seasoned official might blush. It’s hard to compose a fitting line.” (Previous Tune)
Hua Gongzi remarked, “The line ‘Even a seasoned official might blush’—how could an ordinary person come up with such a phrase?” Madam Hua added, “It is as brilliant as the line ‘Now Little Du roams in Yangzhou.’” Just then, Ruizhu and Baozhu began to sing together:
“The golden goblet accompanies the drinking game, never ceasing, as the jade goblet is overturned after dusk. Secretly hand in hand, eyebrows furrowed with worry, fragrant skin grows thin.”
“A moment of spring night feels like eternity. How can one explain the longing of the lotus bud clasp before others? Waiting until the lamps are dim and the banquet table is cleared, the palace jars drip until the lotus-shaped water clock runs out.” (Step by Step High)
Huazhu followed by singing, and Mingzhu accompanied:
“The sound of flutes and pipes echoes from the painted pavilion, filling the air with soft singing, the lights flickering like spring daylight. On Mount Tiantai, Liu and Ruan meet—the perfect couple.”
“Layer upon layer of embroidered curtains permeated with fragrance, onlookers’ brows furrow with envy. The drunken revelers are like waves in the wind, but those who have the fortune to indulge in beauty were born with it.”
“The misty moon over Qinhuai has seen no change, and the scent of makeup and powder fills the Eastern Flow. Night after night, spring feelings scatter without end.”
After the final verse, Hua Gongzi and Madam Hua were very pleased. The ten maids stood up together. Hua Gongzi said, “It must have been hard for them today; they deserve a reward.” Madam Hua responded, “We should establish a ranking to make the rewards and penalties clear.” She then called for writing tools. Ai Zhu quickly fetched a brush, ink, and floral paper, placing them in front of Hua Gongzi. Hua Gongzi deferred to his wife, asking her to judge. Madam Hua insisted that he do it, but Hua Gongzi said, “When it comes to music and rhythm, I truly am not as skilled as you. I’m afraid I wouldn’t be fair, so it’s better if you decide.” Madam Hua smiled and took the brush, writing ten characters, one for each maid, based on the character preceding their names. She then said to Hua Gongzi, “According to my judgment, Baozhu should be ranked first. Her singing was lively and elegant, with a refined and gentle charm. Out of the ten, she stood out the most. Second is Ai Zhu—her emotions and artistry were well-rounded. Next is Zhenzhu, then Zhangzhu, Ruizhu, Zhenzhu, Huazhu, Hezhu, Huazhu, and Mingzhu. I wonder if this seems fair?” Hua Gongzi replied, “It is perfectly fair.” Madam Hua then asked the ten maids, “If any of you feel wronged, don’t hesitate to speak.” Huazhu, smiling shyly, said, “I feel that my singing might have been better than Ruizhu’s and Zhenzhu’s.” Madam Hua replied, “You may not be satisfied, but you don’t realize your own faults when singing. You try to highlight your strengths and cover others’ weaknesses by adding embellishments to your melody, which is more characteristic of opera rather than pure music. Pure music should be sung with elegance, free of excessive ornamentation, to reveal its true nature. Since you’re used to performing operatic pieces, you haven’t quite mastered the purity of tone yet. If the listener didn’t know better, they might have placed you first!” Huazhu finally accepted the judgment. She then asked, “Madam, what do you think of Shanzhi’s singing?” Madam Hua replied, “Shanzhi is also inclined towards opera, but Qin Yan, though inexperienced, has a clearer sense of music.”
Hearing Qin Yan’s name, Hua Gongzi said to Madam Hua, “That child Qin Yan is indeed a bit strange. We treat him well, but he always seems to carry some grievance in his heart. He has taken leave for over a month now and hasn’t come back. He really doesn’t seem like someone of low character, but for some reason, I just don’t feel at ease with him. I can’t figure out why.” Madam Hua replied, “I see him as having a rather proud disposition, and he doesn’t seem like the type willing to serve under others. However, he must realize his current position leaves him no choice. As the saying goes, ‘Do the duties of your office and observe its rites.’ If he continues to act haughtily, he’s truly being foolish.” Hua Gongzi smiled without saying anything further. Madam Hua then distributed the rewards to the ten maids: those ranked first received hairpins and rings, while those ranked second received fragrant powder.
The two old women who had accompanied them had sneaked off to drink half of the cold wine. One of them was already tipsy, leaning against a rock and sitting on the ground, nearly falling asleep. The other was trying to eavesdrop on the conversation but couldn’t hear it clearly.
When Ai Zhu approached, the old woman asked, “Miss, what were Madam and the others discussing? I saw her writing something down.” Ai Zhu smiled and replied, “She’s writing down what to reward us with.” The old woman said, “You young ladies are truly lucky, always receiving rewards. We work from dawn till dusk, and we’ve never been given anything special. Miss, when the rewards come, if there’s anything you don’t want, give it to me. Don’t let those little maids waste it.” Ai Zhu chuckled and walked away. A little maid named Xiang’er laughed and said, “They haven’t even received the rewards yet, and you’re already asking for leftovers. Tomorrow, I’ll buy you a flask so you can store more wine. You’re always holding that jug without a handle, drinking straight from the mouth. Do you think you deserve anything better?” The old woman, ridiculed by Xiang’er, didn’t dare scold her and could only glare at her in frustration. The other old woman sighed softly, saying, “It’s always been said that when people grow old, their value fades, just like pearls turning yellow. Why do you bother arguing with them?”
At this point, Hua Gongzi suddenly recited two lines from The Peony Pavilion: “Such fine times and beautiful scenes, yet the heavens seem cruel; such joyful occasions, whose courtyard do they grace?” Madam Hua smiled and said, “The Peony Pavilion’s Wandering in the Garden and Dreaming of Love can indeed be called charming and graceful, with the soft warmth of fragrance and jade. But when I read the play, I always thought that Liu Mengmei didn’t seem worthy of Liniang.” Hua Gongzi replied, “I’ve thought the same. Liu Mengmei does seem a bit rough and naturally doesn’t match Liniang’s refinement. As for the One Hundred Plays of the Yuan, they are suitable for performances, but not for reading. In terms of literary merit, these plays should just be thrown into the fire and burned.”
He continued, “It’s baffling how some people endlessly praise them, merely enjoying the rhythm and sounds. How could anyone find a single good line in those texts?” Madam Hua said, “I think that before these plays were performed, they might have been better. But the performers modify them to fit their melodies, turning gold into iron with every change. Not to brag, but these plays are no more than musical scores. They don’t pay attention to the elegance or crudeness of the language. When there are plays with better lyrics, no one knows how to perform them. Ever since the establishment of the Nine Palace Scores, everyone only knows how to change words or tones, but they don’t know how to adjust the tunes to fit the lyrics. This is another unfortunate thing in the world.” Hua Gongzi exclaimed, “That’s a brilliant insight! As I look at these famous flowers and hear such wonderful music, I’m inspired to write a small poem and have them sing it. Though it may not compare to the elegance of the Peach Blossom Fan, it would still bring us enjoyment. What do you think?” Madam Hua replied, “That’s a great idea! Why not compose it to the tune of Liangzhou Prelude and use its melody for your new poem? Wouldn’t that make things easier?” Hua Gongzi responded, “Wonderful! Wonderful! You should compose it first.” Madam Hua laughed, “How could I? You should write it first, and I’ll follow your rhyme.” Hua Gongzi agreed, drank a few more cups of wine, thought for a moment, and then wrote a poem to the tune of Liangzhou Prelude, handing it to Madam Hua. She read aloud:
“Radiant clouds form a tapestry, icy silk like scissors, countless tender emotions gently flow. Such fine times and beautiful scenes, black gauze and red sleeves sway together.”
“Shaming even the immortals, they leisurely lead the traveler, secretly dispelling worldly thoughts. A moment of spring is worth a thousand pieces of gold, jeweled curtains and silver screens reveal a paradise—don’t waste the shallow gold cup.”
Madam Hua, after reading it, praised it endlessly. She drank a small cup of wine herself and laughed, saying, “I followed your advice with ‘don’t waste the shallow gold cup.’ But with such a beautifully composed song, how could I possibly match it? Even in the Peach Blossom Fan, the writing is so refined and delicate, with such an elevated tone. I should just give up.” Hua Gongzi laughed and said, “Don’t be so modest. You certainly have brilliant ideas that I can’t think of. Quickly write it down so they can sing it.” Madam Hua recited the poem again, praised it a few more times, and then wrote her own poem, handing it to Hua Gongzi, who read:
“The curtains gently sway, the towers are fully visible, crimson snow and flying jade compete for beauty. Soft songs and delicate glances give rise to even more charm.”
“The years pass like water, green leaves turn to shade—how could springtime be sold so cheaply? Flowers bloom everywhere in Jin Gu and the Stone House, envying only the mandarin ducks, not the immortals. Don’t waste the shallow gold cup.”
Hua Gongzi recited it several times, clapped his hands in admiration, and exclaimed, “This poem surpasses mine! These fifty-seven words are like fragrant clouds swirling and flower petals falling in a shower. Even the Peach Blossom Fan doesn’t have lines as beautiful as these.” Madam Hua smiled and said, “You flatter me too much. I believe it doesn’t compare to yours. Your high praise makes me feel uneasy.” Hua Gongzi replied, “Though ‘envying only the mandarin ducks, not the immortals’ is a familiar phrase, your use of it here surpasses the original. It would be a shame if Cui Yuanyang and Zheng Zhage hadn’t become famous from it.” He then called Baozhu and Ai Zhu over, instructing them to memorize the poems well so they could perform them.
The two maids, Baozhu and Aizhu, practiced the song several times until they had memorized it. They began singing, but after just two lines, they got the rhythm wrong. Madam Hua said, “You’re still not familiar with it. Write the musical notation next to the lyrics and sing while looking at it.” Baozhu and Aizhu wrote down the notation, and when they sang again, it matched the tune perfectly. Both Madam Hua and Hua Gongzi were very pleased. Hua Gongzi laughed and said, “These two songs have certainly established our singers. Why don’t you sing as well? No one outside can hear us here.” Madam Hua smiled and replied, “When have you ever seen me sing?” Hua Gongzi said, “If you truly don’t know how to sing, how is it that you understand the subtle nuances so well? And whenever someone makes a mistake in the rhythm, you always catch it.” Madam Hua laughed and said, “After listening to it every few days, how could I not become familiar with it?” Hua Gongzi said, “I’m quite familiar with it as well, but sometimes I don’t pay attention, and when a mistake is made, I don’t even notice. I suppose it’s because I’m careless.”
Madam Hua said, “Why don’t you sing?” Hua Gongzi replied, “Singing alone is no fun.” Madam Hua said, “You can sing with Baozhu. Besides, the line ‘don’t waste the shallow gold cup’ is meant to be a duet.” Hua Gongzi said, “Let’s not sing now. Tomorrow, we’ll compose a few more verses and create a full suite called Appreciating Flowers. We can have them perform as if they were us, and call it Flower Offering. What do you think?” Madam Hua said, “That wouldn’t be very interesting. It would turn out like Appreciating Lotuses. The ten maids might be good at playing comedic roles, but it would still feel too common.” Hua Gongzi laughed and said, “If there’s a comedic role to be played, only Huazhu can handle it.” Hearing this, Huazhu blushed, turned her head, and said to Aizhu, “You could play it, too.” Before Aizhu could respond, Hua Gongzi said, “Aizhu will be the supporting female role, Huazhu will be the old female role, Baozhu will be the lead female role, and Ruizhu will be the young female role. The others can play the male roles, the painted faces, and the supporting roles, which will be even better than the eight performers.” Madam Hua said, “That sounds doable, but I’m afraid they might be too shy to pull it off.” As she spoke, she admired the peach blossoms, which were bathed in the evening light, appearing even more vibrant—red like glowing clouds and brocade, white turning to a soft pink, and some even shimmering like gold. The sight was exceptionally beautiful. However, noticing that the day was drawing to a close, she said to Hua Gongzi, “We’ve enjoyed ourselves enough for today. I’m starting to feel a bit tired. Let’s go inside.” She stood up, and Hua Gongzi rose as well. Madam Hua led the ten maids and took Lady Hua Rui’s portrait, The Peach Blossom Fan, and her embroidered New Songs from the Jade Terrace inside with her. Hua Gongzi accompanied her, walking leisurely.
They stopped briefly at the Ancient Vine Study before proceeding to the Yixiang Pavilion. The path over the rocky terrain was steep and difficult to traverse, so the maids carefully supported Madam Hua as they slowly made their way forward. Ahead was a smooth, paved stone street called Lychee Street, which they crossed easily. After passing three or four more pavilions, they finally entered the inner chambers.
Meanwhile, in the garden, the two old women were cleaning up. Though they had the help of two little maids, they still couldn’t carry everything in one trip. Earlier, six of the maids had helped carry some items, but now they had to rely on Shanzhi, Jinling, and Yuling to help with a few more things.
The two old women staggered and stumbled for quite a while before finally making it back inside.
Hua Gongzi escorted Madam Hua all the way to her room and sat with her for a while, reviewing the lyrics they had written earlier. Afterward, they had dinner together. Suddenly feeling in high spirits, Hua Gongzi went to Xihong Pavilion. Remembering that Qin Yan hadn’t returned from his leave, even though it seemed his time off had already passed, he called a little maid to summon Shanzhi. After a while, the maid returned with Shanzhi. Hua Gongzi asked, “On what day did Qin Yan take leave?” Shanzhi replied, “The 24th day of the first month.” Hua Gongzi said, “The 24th day of the first month—today is already the 2nd day of the third month. He requested one month off, so why hasn’t he returned after seven or eight extra days?”
Shanzhi remained silent for a moment before saying, “Perhaps something came up, and he needs to finish his business before returning.” Hua Gongzi said, “I don’t think he has any pressing matters. Tomorrow, I’ll send someone out of the city to find him and ask when he plans to return.” Shanzhi agreed.
After exchanging a few more words, Hua Gongzi went inside. What happens next remains to be seen. Stay tuned for the next chapter.