話說光陰甚快，六月將過，又交七月，高品到了，住在怡園，與南湘同寓在清涼詩境。帶了本省撫臺的文書，一咨禮部，一咨府尹，保薦應考博學宏詞。四方名宿，紛紛漸到。已定於八月初十日開考。
且說春航吉期已到，這蘇侯是個闊家，大姑娘嫁與華公子，妝奩就值百萬。今知春航是個寒士，把京東的田莊批了二百頃，撥了兩名莊頭，六房家人男婦，十個丫鬟，至珠寶古玩、陳設鋪墊，以及衣服被褥、箱盒桌椅器皿之類，送奩那一日，用了二千名人夫，蘇夫人猶以為薄，不及大姑娘十分之七，於鋪箱時鋪了兩萬兩白銀、三千兩黃金。子雲是媒人，見春航房屋窄小，鋪張不下，把自己住宅東邊一所空房借與他，有個八九十間，還有個小花園在內。這回春航娶親，賀客紛紛，很為熱鬧，請酒演戲，內外鋪設，也成了個錦天花地。一個蕙芳如何料理得開？子雲去請了張仲雨來幫忙，管了帳房並指點鋪設一切。
仲雨這些事是最在行的，諸事調度得很有章程。新房內自有蘇府的人來鋪設。春航的母舅張桐孫已帶了家眷往直省候補去了，今奉差來京，也幫著春航張羅。初六那一日有兩處戲酒，一處在聚星堂，請的是鄉試座師禮部尚書劉守正、座師內閣學士王文輝、會試房師兵部郎中楊方猷，鴻臚寺卿周錫爵、光祿少卿陸宗沅，這兩位是同鄉前輩兼有年誼。張桐孫陪了這幾位在聚星堂觀戲，演得是聯珠班。春航陪著一班名士在花園挹爽齋觀演聯錦班。那一天大媒是徐子雲，客是蕭次賢、高品、南湘、顏仲清、劉文澤、王恂、梅子玉。近日子玉病已好了，勉強打起精神出來。這八個名旦不消說都在園中，那聚星堂上一個也不去，盡是一班中年的腳色，與那些尋常的旦腳，在那裡應酬。
蘇蕙芳一會兒走了來，又被張仲雨叫了去帳房幫忙，倒比別人還忙些。
早上就開了戲，諸人一面看戲，一面歡笑，好不高興。子玉見那些名旦之中，就只少了琴言，觸景傷情，頗有一人向隅之慘，眾人也都會意。忽不見了高品，子雲命書童去找他，找到戲房後頭，找著了。見高品在那裡教王蘭保的戲，蘭保點頭而笑。高品出來，裝出正經樣子，連笑話也都不說一句。少頃，王蘭保來請點戲，送到子雲面前，子雲點了一齣《喬醋》，高品點了一齣《當巾》。《喬醋》唱了，《當巾》卻是蘭保扮了小生，倒作得人情逼肖。春航是個聰明人，已知高品奚落他，便說道：「這李亞仙真是個女中豪傑，前賺鄭元和是遵母命，後來是感於至情。若我作了鄭元和，寧當身子上衣衫，不當這巾。你們不聽得這兩條網巾繩子是李亞仙親手打的麼？」高品道：「只怕衣裳有了泥，當不得了。你不聽得來興唱道：『相公，你戴月來，滿身露濕，我這件衣服呵白苧新裁，未沾汗跡。』」
子雲道：「他是沾的露，你又怎麼說他沾的泥呢？」眾人皆笑。作到來興進去，轎夫出來趕打，蘭保跌了一交，便改了口白，說道：「罷了！罷了！被他一路趕來，跌了一身泥垢。且喜七叔贈我這件衣衫，我且去當了，也可聽得兩天。阿喲！兀的不想殺小生也。」眾人聽了，個個駭異道：「忽然講些什麼？」
仔細一想，便大笑起來。高品只是微笑，眾人心裡早已明白。
又聽得蘭保唱那《玉抱肚》的曲子道：
我只得門前窺伺，跟隨他繡□香車。忍羞慚要乞青眸顧，應憐辱在泥塗，迴腸如路，雙輪一碾一嗟吁，怎笑倚。
蘭保唱到此，也要笑了，子雲等連聲喝采，諸人亂叫起「好」來。春航滿面通紅，指著高品罵道：「我只道你別過了一年，自然也改惡從善，誰道還是這副歪心肝。」高品道：「這才罵得奇，我又講了什麼？這不是自己栽了筋斗埋怨地皮麼？」
春航尚要罵他，只見家人進來稟道：「蘇府妝奩已到。」一片吹打之聲。春航請了子雲、次賢一同迎接上去。送奩的是蘇府幾位本家親戚，內中有華公子，繡衣金帶，玉貌如仙。春航尚是初見，已久仰這位連衿的大名，接進了聚星堂，齊齊見禮。
華公子見了劉尚書、王文輝是父執，便請了安，其餘都行平禮。
春航與華公子係是新親，無甚話說，不過彼此道些仰慕之意。
幸有王文輝、徐子雲幫著張羅，應酬了那幾位新親，頗不寂寞。
妝奩到了，擠滿了街道，二千名抬夫，也就與出兵一樣。只見眾家人帶領抬夫頭兒，紛紛搬運。張仲雨跑過來，跑過去，指這樣，說那樣。門外人聲嘈雜，蘇蕙芳發賞封，上號簿，一個人那裡打發得開，又叫了蘭保、素蘭來相幫，足足鬧了兩三個時辰，尚未清楚。裡頭許三姐也幫著手忙腳亂，同著那些陪房的擺這樣，安那樣，鬧得一身的汗，一件稠衫子沾住了背心，腰也酸了，腳也疼了，喝了一碗涼茶，把扇子扇了一會，再來收拾。春航忙進城謝妝去了。
王文輝要推華公子首坐，華公子不肯。子雲意欲邀他進園，與諸名士會會，華公子也不願在外，便同了子雲進園，文澤等齊齊站起，華公子上前見禮。除文澤之外，都不認識，內中見一個最年輕的，覺得如月光珠彩，鳳舉霞軒，骨重神清，風華雅麗，心裡一驚，覺眼中從未見過這樣人。子玉見華公子的品貌，也暗暗稱贊：「清華貴重，儀表天然，果是不凡。」華公子一一見了，問明了子雲。華公子道：「敘起來都也有世誼，小弟疏於交接，今日幸會，滌我塵衿。」諸名士也各述一番景仰，遂推華公子首坐。華公子如何肯坐，說道：「我們既幸會了，就與夙好一樣。若以小弟當客相待，倒是見棄了。我們今日敘定，下次就不用再推。方才諸兄怎樣坐的，自然是敘齒，那位年紀比我小，我就僭他。」敘起來，就是子玉比他小了三歲，華公子就坐在子玉之上。眾人見他直爽，也不讓了。華公子見這班人都是瀟灑出塵的相貌，將春航比起子玉來，稍遜一籌，而神情灑脫過之，可算瑜、亮並生了。
坐了席，開了戲，那邊王文輝、張仲雨進來，在華公子面前張羅了一番。華公子要請仲雨坐席，仲雨道：「今日我竟沒有這個福分。」春航謝妝已回，也請仲雨入席，仲雨道：「外面一個媚香，如何照應得來？不可叫他怨我。」便拱拱手走開，指著子雲道：「總是你好作成。」笑出去了。王文輝蹺起了朝靴，手捋長髯，與華公子、徐子雲講了一番話，也就踱了出去。
春航請客寬了公服，唱了一齣戲。華公子道：「天氣熱，倒不用唱戲了，也叫他們歇歇。」八旦上來，華公子不見蕙芳，便問春航道：「怎麼不見那位狀元夫人，還在帳房裡麼？」春航不好意思回答。子雲聽了，笑道：「如今鬧出兩位狀元夫人，倒與《燕子箋》上的《誥圓》一樣了。」華公子一想，自覺失言，便不再問。見素蘭美麗風流，亭亭可愛，即叫他上前，說道：「你去年寫在那《良宵風月圖》上的詩，我已裱成了手卷，並請人題了好些，實在畫也畫得好，字也寫得好，人人稱贊。」
即對子雲道：「此君風韻不減袁、蘇，貌類琴言，而聰明過之。」贊得素蘭好不喜歡。華公子又問子玉道：「弟與尊兄雖初次識面，但心契已久。有個魏聘才，是府上搬出來，在弟處住了半年，常常提及閣下，並有一事倒要請教。」子玉不知問他何事，即答道：「魏世兄也時常提及尊府，但未識荊，不敢晉謁，不知有何賜教？」華公子道：「事本細微，但一時不能索解。聞得閣下與琴言訂交最密，矢志不渝。琴言在弟處，弟即有所聞。琴言如今又同了敝業師出京，閣下何以忍心割愛，而琴言又何以掉臂遊行？乞道其詳。」這一問，把個子玉問得頓口無言，面有愧色，而心中悲苦，又隨感而生。子雲見子玉甚是為難，便大笑道：「這話須問我，庾香仁弟是長於情而拙於言。你說何以忍心割愛，而琴言又肯掉臂遊行，其故最易說明。此是庾香用情深處，欲成全這個人，所以叫他同了令業師去的。況令業師認為義子，已如平地而履青雲。琴言也明白這個道理，成身以報知己，豈不勝於輕身以事知己？」華公子點頭歎息，子玉方安了心。
華公子又與高品、南湘、仲清、王恂、文澤、次賢各講了些話，知高品才從蘇州來，問了些江蘇風景。偶然見素蘭的扇子一面畫的甚細，要了過來，看了一會。又見那一面寫著小楷，題目是《斷腸詞》。華公子道：「腸何可以輕斷？」子玉見了，又覺不安。華公子低低吟了一遍，又問素蘭道：「這是你自己的麼？」素蘭道：「字與畫都是胡亂塗寫的，這詞…」即指著子玉道：「就是梅少爺送玉儂的。」華公子摺了扇子，對著子玉道：「看時就有幾分猜著是吾兄手筆，非至情人不能道，果然，果然。」又笑道：「這夢魂到底喚得來喚不來呢？」子玉怎樣回答，眾人皆笑。
忽見林珊枝走來，華公子便叫取衣服過來，穿戴了，辭了春航，說道：「弟還要到舍親處有事，明早送轎來再會罷。」一拱而別。外面送奩來那幾位，早已去了。諸人送下了階，單是那春航送出。素蘭見拿了他的扇子，便跟了出來。到上車時，華公子始見素蘭送他，知他要那扇子，但又心愛此詞，不忍釋手，便對素蘭笑道：「你好不解事，今日這個好日子，你拿這《斷腸詞》扇出來，不教人忌違的麼？」一面說，把自己扇袋裡的扇子取出來，與素蘭道：「給你這一柄罷。」素蘭請安謝了，華公子登輿而去。春航、素蘭進來，素蘭將華公子換扇之事，與眾人講了。把他的扇子展開來與諸名士看時，見一面畫著兩枝桃花，紅白相間，一面寫的小楷，卻是美女簪花，娟秀無比，是兩首《梁州序》的曲子，後注：「金錯園賞桃花和《桃花扇》曲。」春航道：「這楷書是閨閣筆跡。」眾人看這兩首詞，情文互至，秀韻天然，贊歎不已。子玉道：「這第二首也像閨閣口氣。」子雲道：「不要是他夫人題的麼？這兩首像是唱和的。」仲清道：「未必，如果是他夫人寫的，怎肯給人？」次賢道：「這話說得是。」諸名士在園內談心，卻說那聚星堂上，王文輝見諸名旦一個不來，頗覺岑寂，又不好意思去叫他們。想蕙芳在帳房裡，便叫了他出來。蕙芳也累苦了，樂得出來歇歇，便到文輝席上來，就在文輝旁邊坐了。此處是兩席，那席是劉守正、周錫爵、楊方猷，這席是王文輝、陸宗沅、張桐孫。文輝道：「這幾天我知道你也累極了，所以叫你出來歇歇，此刻也應沒有什麼事了。」蕙芳道：「也沒有什麼忙，借此倒可跟著張二爺學學。那張二爺實在可以，大大小小，沒有一點遺漏。」陸宗沅道：「這是張老二的專門本事。大概遇著這些事情，這帳房非他不可。」文輝問蕙芳道：「你將來打算怎樣，也要立個主意。我若能放了外任，你同我出去罷，我就請你管帳。」蕙芳笑道：「管帳？我才幫了幾天帳房，已經鬧得昏了，還能與你管帳呢！我倒有個主意，而且還有幾個人也願來。我想開個古董書畫鋪，兼賣綢緞、紙張、花繡、香粉、花木等類，這些物件都到蘇杭去置辦。房子也有現成的，度香有所空房子近著他住宅，也有個小花圃在內，看大家湊起來，如果湊得成，倒也有趣。我們也不想發財，不過借此安了身，幾個相好聚在一處，也省得四方離散。」文輝道：「很好，我也願來一分，我來與你掌櫃。」蕙芳笑道：「我請不起你，你是就要放督撫的。你如果有不要的古董搬幾件出來，借光擺擺罷。」
王文輝道：「有、有、有！如果我放了督撫，我難帶的東西都與你留下。」蕙芳笑道：「難帶的東西想是粗笨的，你不要拿些木器傢伙，什麼鐵爐子、鐵火盒，寄放在我處，我是不領情的。」陸宗沅、張桐孫笑起來，王文輝也笑，把扇子打了蕙芳一下：「你薄我，這還了得。」蕙芳也笑。文輝手弄長髯，蕙芳道：「你那鬍子怎麼倒黑起來了？想是遵姨太太命染黑的。」文輝笑道：「這更胡說了。」便自己看看鬍鬚道：「老了，你們這些少年人，雖然與我們講些頑笑話，心上是很嫌我們的。」
陸宗沅笑道：「你不要帶著人說，我們的鬍子不是染的。」那邊席上的劉尚書、周錫爵、楊方猷都笑起來，惟有張桐孫是個道學人，不會頑笑。周錫爵道：「質夫，你那烏鬚藥的方子，可是你孫親家傳你的？」文輝道：「他那幾根鬍子，要用什麼烏鬚藥？」既而一想，便大笑起來。陸宗沅也明白，也笑了。
劉守正與楊方猷不解其故，連聲的問，文輝就將亮功女兒漆頭髮的一事講出來，聽得眾人皆笑，連張桐孫也笑起來。周錫爵道：「既是這麼著，質夫，你何不到班裡借個假鬍子帶著，省得這烏黑的東西，沾染了你們如夫人的臉。」劉守正道：「這一染，就直染到胸前呢。」文輝道：「嚼你的舌頭。」陸宗沅道：「怎麼你把這尺寸都量得清清楚楚的？」蕙芳道：「帶著假鬍子好。你索性把真鬍子剃掉了，出門時帶了假的出來，講房時就除下，不更好看麼？」大家又笑，文輝把扇子在蕙芳肩上打了兩下，笑著罵道：「你這尖酸刻薄鬼，怪不得田湘帆被你管得服服貼貼，一強也不敢強。但你也只有今天一天了，明日就有個真狀元夫人來，看你又怎樣？」蕙芳臉一紅，道：「豈有此理，這是什麼頑笑！」周錫爵道：「媚香不要理他，你到這裡來，咱們談談。」蕙芳到那邊席上去打了一轉通關，又到這邊來打了一轉。張仲雨又把蕙芳叫了去了，諸人已坐了一天，到迎親時刻尚早，也各自暫散。
那蘇府繁榮不能細述。明日辰刻，春航先行了親迎之禮，隨後子雲並一班迎親的押了花轎到蘇府來，一切交代排場已畢，花轎回來，一路笙歌鼎沸，儀從紛紜，滿街車填馬塞，好不熱鬧。進了門，請出新人，拜了花燭，珠圍翠繞，玉暖花香，說不盡富貴風流，溫柔旖旎。外面那些賓客及諸名士，又足足鬧了一日。到晚間春航進房，見了新人，果然應了子雲的話，真像蕙芳，便萬種溫存，十分美滿，真是佳人才子，玉女仙郎，占盡了人間香福矣。
明日，蘇夫人請了他大姑奶奶浣香與徐子雲夫人袁綺香去陪新，吃扶頭卯酒。田太夫人請了王文輝的陸氏夫人，帶了他大姑奶奶蓉華並媳婦孫少奶奶佩秋，又請劉守正的夫人，沒有來，他媳婦吳少奶奶紫煙來了。周錫爵、楊方猷、陸宗沅的夫人都辭了。
卻說華夫人清早起來梳妝，群珠伺候打扮停妥，華公子進來，在妝臺邊坐了一會，忽然笑道：「不知二妹心裡此時怎樣，還是苦，還是樂？」華夫人笑了一笑，道：「虧你作姐夫的講出這句話來。」群珠也都微笑。華夫人見公子的手內扇子，不是前日寫的那一把，要過來看了一看，把這詞念了一遍，道：
「好詞。這扇子那裡來的？」公子道：「是陸素蘭的。我愛這首詞，所以帶了他回來。」華夫人道：「這首詞甚好，但不像是送朋友的。若送朋友，怎麼有這『只道今生常廝守，盼銀塘不隔秋河漢』呢？若說夫婦離別之詞，又不像，說是贈妓的，也不甚像。然而語至情真，卻有可取。」華公子笑道：「你真好眼力，這一評真評得不錯。這首詞是一個人送琴言的，可不是夫婦不像夫婦，朋友不像朋友，妓又不像妓麼？然而寫這片情，真寫得消魂動魄。」華夫人道：「是度香作的麼？」華公子道：「不是，是梅庾香，就是琴言向日的知已。」華夫人問道：「前日我寫的扇子呢？你不要給人瞧。」華公子聽了這句話，方想起給了素蘭，就是這扇，心中甚悔一時沒有留心，只得說道：「我不與人瞧，我恐扇舊了，已收起了。」華夫人也不疑心他給了人。將要出門，帶了寶珠、愛珠、蕊珠、珍珠、明珠、掌珠六婢，又帶了小香兒與兩個僕婦。此時新秋，天氣尚熱，也不須多帶衣服，帶了一個小錦箱、一個錦匣，裝些花鈿脂粉。外面叫一個老年的管家騎了頂馬，金齡、玉齡、蘭齡、桂齡騎了跟班馬。華夫人出房到內花廳，就坐肩輿，出了垂花門，上了車，另有車道。繞過大堂，家人方上馬，隨後八輛大鞍車，坐了群婢。雕輪繡□，流水一般的出城。來到了田宅，眾夫人已到。田老夫人迎下階來，群珠扶擁著夫人進來。田老夫人一見，真是仙娥下降，玉女臨凡。走上臺階，田老夫人一把手挽住了。眾夫人出坐相迎，華夫人略略照應。管家婆鋪下紅氈，華夫人行拜見禮。田老夫人再三推辭，執定不肯。華夫人拜了，田老夫人也還了拜。然後與眾夫人相見，除了徐度香的夫人之外，都不認識，徐夫人一一告知，都相見了。然後請出新人來拜，見了婆婆，又與各位夫人也對拜了。六珠婢磕了田夫人的頭，又與新人叩頭賀喜。蘇家賠房的一群丫鬟、僕婦十七八個，還有許三姐，都到華夫人面前來叩頭，把三間花廳擠得滿滿的了。
鼓樂開戲，請新人正席居中，東西分了兩席，田夫人定席，徐夫人坐首席，徐夫人道：「老伯母怎麼將姪女當作客了。這首席該定新親，是要華家妹妹坐的。」田老夫人只得讓華夫人坐，華夫人道：「這個姪女如何坐得？」即對徐夫人道：「姐姐，我姐妹不知敘過多少次了，怎麼今日忽然推起來？」徐夫人道：「往日我就僭你，今日妹妹是新親，況且你老遠的出來，我又近在此，我如何僭得你來？」華夫人道：「今日姐姐是家母請來陪舍妹的，叫妹妹跟著姐姐過來，怎麼今日倒要讓我坐呢？」徐夫人笑道：「我今日與你讓定的了，非但我不坐這首席，連那邊首席我也不坐。那邊自然要讓王老伯母的。」田老夫人道：「這個賢姪女太謙了，若序齒呢，自然是王太太，但是老身請來作陪的，只好委屈些了。賢姪女不必過謙，從直些罷。」徐夫人那裡肯坐，便道：「老伯母吩咐，姪女就坐那邊，這邊是一定不坐的。」便走到西邊去了。田老夫人見徐夫人決不肯坐，只得又讓華夫人，華夫人又與徐夫人讓了好一會，讓不過徐夫人，經陸夫人也幫著田老夫人勸，他只得坐了。陸夫人坐東席第二，劉少奶奶坐第三，王少奶奶坐西席第二，顏少奶奶坐第三。田老夫人在東邊作陪。陸夫人對田老夫人道：「太太，那邊不用你過去張羅了。」便叫蓉姑道：「你在那邊代作主人罷，省得田老太太走來走去的費事。」田老夫人滿面笑容，站起來說道：「若得姑奶奶張羅，就妙極的了。」說罷便福了兩福，蓉華連忙還禮。陸夫人道：「太太實在多禮，小孩子也當得起你這麼著？他們姐妹聚會還高興不過，只怕你老人家過去，倒拘束了他們。」田老夫人見新婦這般天姿國色，不覺喜動顏開。再看華夫人，真是同胞姊妹，一樣嬌柔，分不出次第來。看他們二人，倒像在那裡見過的一般，想不出來，惟覺眼中很熟，想去想來，原來有些像蘇蕙芳，怪不得像見過的了。看徐子雲的夫人袁綺香是冰肌玉骨，雍容大雅，真是林下風流，與子雲恰是一對佳偶。劉少奶奶娟秀可愛，顏少奶奶秀麗超群，甚是灑落，王少奶奶靜婉和妍，與劉少奶奶彷彿。
再看那陸夫人，雖是四十以外中年人，骨格風華，穿衣打扮，尚極美麗。兩顴微露，臉上生了幾點雀斑，若遠遠望去尚是一個絕代佳人，像個智慧聰明、才幹出眾的人。
陸夫人道：「想我太太真有天樣大的福氣，生這個狀元兒子，娶這個天仙媳婦。你老人家只怕是王母下凡，靈妃轉世，所以有這些仙子、仙女跟了你老人家下來。我們雖不算蟠桃會上人，今日卻也沾了多少光，托了多少福。」田老夫人笑道：「我看太太的福氣也就是全福了，自己是正二品的誥命，到一品也快了。膝下佳兒、佳婦朝夕承歡，還有兩位千金在家，東牀又皆是人中英俊。大姑爺已是極好的了，前日我見二姑爺這個品貌，誰還趕得上他！學問是小兒佩服得很的，下科怕不是一門三鼎甲麼？」陸夫人欣欣笑起來，道：「據太太在外面看我，我原像個有福氣的，殊不知一家就是我一個人操心，還要照應到外頭的事呢。我們老爺，他是不管家務的。至於兒子、女婿卻也不算不好，但此時都還未中。我想起來，我只怨我們老爺，去年偏偏作了主考。我早料著有這件事，我勸他先告一個月的病假，躲過了這個差。他執意不肯，倒說收了幾個好門生，也與兒子、女婿中了一樣。你看如今是一樣嗎？依了我的話，三個人進場，難道一個也不中出來？所以被他誤盡了。八月內又聽得考博學宏詞，這也是百年難遇的，考中了也可作翰林，但知道考得中考不中呢？設或又派了他作起主考來，那就是坑死人了。太太你將我來比你，若論上半世呢，我也將就，論下半世，只怕就差得遠了。」華夫人與劉少奶奶聽他這一口清而且脆的話，聽得甚有趣。又見他捲起大袖子，手上金釧、金鐲碰得叮叮噹噹，那一種精明爽辣的樣兒，倒也可愛。那邊徐夫人笑道：「伯母倒也不必自謙，我看你們兩位，一位是東華聖母，一位是南嶽夫人，正是敵體。」新人坐了一坐，早已告退。這邊太太們講得好不投機，底下是許三姐張羅。徐家的紅雪、紅蓮、紅香、紅玉、紅梅、紅月、紅露、紅□八個，並華家六珠，與那些家人媳婦丫鬟們，整整坐了八桌。這八桌裡頭，有會說會笑的，有會喝會吃的，有抿著嘴不開口的，有縮著手不動箸的，各人有各人的模樣。三姐八面張羅，滿場飛舞。
正席上聽了幾齣戲，放過了賞，散了席，太太奶奶們都到新房中坐。華夫人與他妹子說了好一會話，然後告辭。徐夫人要留他逛園，華夫人說晚了，改日再來奉拜罷，遂帶了群珠登輿而去。徐夫人也即告辭，陸夫人同了女、媳回去，劉少奶奶也回，田老夫人一一相送。不知後事如何，且聽下回分解。
Here is the translation of the text, paragraph by paragraph, as requested:
Time flies quickly, and June passed by as July approached. Gao Pin arrived and stayed at Yi Garden, living together with Nan Xiang in the serene and poetic atmosphere of Cool Breeze Pavilion. He brought official documents from the provincial governor, one addressed to the Ministry of Rites and another to the prefect, recommending him to take the examination for the “Erudite Scholar with Broad Learning.” Scholars from all over gradually arrived. The examination was scheduled for the 10th day of August.
Meanwhile, the auspicious date for Chun Hang’s wedding had arrived. The Su family was wealthy, and their eldest daughter had married Mr. Hua with a dowry worth millions. Knowing that Chun Hang came from a humble background, they sold 200 qing of land in Jingtong, assigned two stewards, six family members, ten maidservants, and added valuable jewelry, antiques, and furnishings, as well as clothes, bedding, boxes, tables, chairs, and utensils. On the day of the dowry delivery, they employed 2,000 workers. Madam Su still considered this inadequate, saying it was only seventy percent of what they gave their eldest daughter. She added 20,000 taels of silver and 3,000 taels of gold to the dowry. Zi Yun, the matchmaker, noticed that Chun Hang’s house was too small for such lavish preparations, so he lent them an empty house on the east side of his own residence, with 80 or 90 rooms and a small garden. The wedding was lively, with many guests attending, feasting, and watching plays. Both inside and outside were splendidly decorated. Since Hui Fang could not handle all the arrangements by herself, Zi Yun invited Zhang Zhongyu to help manage the accounts and oversee all the preparations.
Zhang Zhongyu was very experienced with such matters and managed everything in an orderly manner. The people from the Su family took care of decorating the bridal chamber. Chun Hang’s uncle, Zhang Tongsun, had gone to the province with his family to await a government position, but since he had received an assignment in the capital, he also helped Chun Hang with the wedding preparations. On the 6th day of the month, there were two banquets. One was held at the Gathering Stars Hall, where they invited Liu Shouzheng, the Minister of Rites and examiner of the provincial exam, Wang Wenhui, the academician of the cabinet and the examiner of the metropolitan exam, Yang Fangyou, the Langzhong of the Ministry of War and examiner of the final exam, Zhou Xijue, the Qing of the Ministry of Ceremonial Affairs, and Lu Zongyuan, the Shaoqing of the Ministry of Imperial Household, both of whom were from the same hometown and had long-standing friendships with the family. Zhang Tongsun accompanied them at the Gathering Stars Hall, where they watched a performance by the Lianzhu Opera Troupe. Chun Hang accompanied a group of scholars in the garden’s Yushuang Study, where they watched the Lianjin Opera Troupe perform. The matchmaker that day was Xu Zi Yun, and the guests included Xiao Ci Xian, Gao Pin, Nan Xiang, Yan Zhongqing, Liu Wenze, Wang Xun, and Mei Ziyu. Mei Ziyu, who had recently recovered from an illness, managed to join despite not feeling entirely well. The eight famous actresses performed in the garden, while none went to the Gathering Stars Hall, where only middle-aged actors performed, engaging with the regular guests.
Su Huifang, after a brief appearance, was called by Zhang Zhongyu to help with the accounting, making her busier than anyone else.
The performance started in the morning, and everyone watched while laughing and enjoying themselves. Mei Ziyu, upon noticing that the famous actresses were present, felt melancholy as the absence of Qin Yan reminded him of sorrowful memories. Everyone seemed to understand his feelings. Suddenly, Gao Pin was nowhere to be seen. Zi Yun sent a servant to find him, and he was eventually found backstage, instructing Wang Lanbao on a performance. Lanbao nodded and smiled. When Gao Pin returned, he acted very proper and did not crack a single joke. Shortly after, Wang Lanbao came to request a selection of plays. He presented the options to Zi Yun, who chose “Qiao Cu” (Jealous Joe). Gao Pin chose “Dang Jin” (The Belt). After “Qiao Cu” was performed, “Dang Jin” followed, with Lanbao playing the young male lead. His performance was quite convincing. Chun Hang, being a clever man, realized that Gao Pin was mocking him and remarked, “This Li Yaxian is truly a heroine. In the beginning, she tricked Zheng Yuanhe by following her mother’s orders, but later, she was moved by true affection. If I were Zheng Yuanhe, I’d rather pawn my clothes than this belt. Didn’t you hear that the strings on the net cap were tied by Li Yaxian herself?” Gao Pin replied, “I’m afraid once the clothes get muddy, they can’t be pawned anymore. Didn’t you hear when Lai Xing sang, ‘Sir, you arrived under the moon, your body drenched with dew. This garment is made of fresh white ramie, unsoiled by sweat.’”
Zi Yun said, “The garment was soaked with dew, so how can you say it was mud?” Everyone laughed. As the scene moved to Lai Xing going inside and the sedan bearers rushing out, Lanbao fell and changed his lines, saying, “Enough! Enough! I’ve been chased all the way here and fallen into the mud. Fortunately, my seventh uncle gave me this garment, so I can pawn it and get two days’ worth of rest. Oh! This is enough to kill me.” Everyone was astonished, asking, “What did he just say?”
After a moment of thought, everyone burst into laughter. Gao Pin merely smiled, and everyone understood the joke.
Then they heard Lanbao sing a line from “The Jade Waistband”:
“I can only peep outside the door and follow her perfumed sedan, enduring my shame, hoping for a glance of compassion, but she only despises my lowly state in the mud. With a heartache like a twisting road, the wheels of her sedan crush me, yet how can I laugh while leaning on this?”
This translation follows the original text exactly, without summarizing or omitting any details.
Here is the translation of the text, paragraph by paragraph, without any summarization or omission:
When Lanbao reached this part of the song, he almost laughed himself. Zi Yun and the others cheered loudly, and everyone called out “Bravo!” Chun Hang’s face turned bright red, and he pointed at Gao Pin, cursing, “I thought that after a year had passed, you would naturally turn over a new leaf, but who would have thought you’re still this wicked!” Gao Pin replied, “Now that’s an odd accusation. What did I say? Aren’t you just blaming the ground for tripping over yourself?”
Chun Hang still wanted to scold him, but at that moment, a family servant came in to report, “The dowry from the Su family has arrived.” The sound of music filled the air. Chun Hang invited Zi Yun and Ci Xian to go together and receive the dowry. The people delivering the dowry were relatives from the Su family, including Mr. Hua, dressed in embroidered robes with a golden belt, his handsome appearance like that of an immortal. This was Chun Hang’s first time meeting him, though he had long heard of the famous in-law. They all entered the Gathering Stars Hall and greeted each other.
When Mr. Hua saw Minister Liu and Wang Wenhui, whom he respected as his father’s peers, he paid his respects. To the others, he offered a standard greeting.
Chun Hang and Mr. Hua, being new in-laws, didn’t have much to talk about, so they exchanged compliments about each other’s reputation.
Fortunately, Wang Wenhui and Xu Zi Yun helped with the hosting, keeping the new relatives entertained, so the occasion wasn’t dull.
The arrival of the dowry caused a commotion, filling the streets. The 2,000 bearers looked like an army. The servants led the head bearers, and the process of moving the items in began. Zhang Zhongyu rushed around, directing people here and there. Outside, the noise of the crowd was overwhelming. Su Huifang was distributing reward money and writing down names in the account book, but she couldn’t handle it all by herself. She called Lanbao and Su Lan to help, but even with them, it took two to three hours before things were somewhat organized. Inside, Sister Xu was also busy, helping the maids arrange the items, setting up this and that, sweating all over. Her silk shirt stuck to her back, her waist was sore, and her feet hurt. After drinking a bowl of cold tea and fanning herself for a while, she went back to work. Chun Hang hurried into the city to express thanks for the dowry.
Wang Wenhui tried to give Mr. Hua the seat of honor, but Mr. Hua refused. Zi Yun wanted to invite Mr. Hua to the garden to meet the scholars, but Mr. Hua, not wishing to linger outside, accompanied Zi Yun into the garden. Liu Wenze and the others stood up as Mr. Hua entered. Mr. Hua greeted them. Besides Liu Wenze, he didn’t know anyone. Among the group, one person stood out, the youngest of the scholars, who had an air of grace and elegance, his presence like moonlight and pearls, his bearing lofty and radiant. Mr. Hua was struck, thinking he had never seen such a person before. Mei Ziyu, upon seeing Mr. Hua’s refined appearance, silently admired him, thinking, “So dignified and noble, naturally impressive. Truly exceptional.” After greeting everyone, Mr. Hua asked Zi Yun to introduce them. Mr. Hua said, “It turns out we all share old ties. I’ve been remiss in keeping connections, but I’m fortunate to meet you today, which refreshes me.” The scholars each expressed their admiration for Mr. Hua, then tried to give him the seat of honor. Mr. Hua, however, refused, saying, “Since we’re lucky to meet, let’s act like old friends. Treating me as a guest would be to dismiss me. Today, we’ll settle this, so there’s no need to push next time. Let’s sit according to age. That gentleman is younger than me, so I’ll take his place.” As it turned out, Mei Ziyu was three years younger than Mr. Hua, so Mr. Hua sat above him. Everyone appreciated Mr. Hua’s straightforwardness and did not argue further. Mr. Hua noticed that this group of people all had an air of elegance and sophistication. Comparing Chun Hang to Mei Ziyu, he found Chun Hang slightly inferior in appearance but superior in charm and composure, making the two like the famous historical figures Yu and Liang.
Once seated, the play began. Wang Wenhui and Zhang Zhongyu came in and fussed around Mr. Hua for a while. Mr. Hua wanted to invite Zhang Zhongyu to sit with them, but Zhang Zhongyu replied, “I’m not lucky enough to join today.” Chun Hang, having returned from thanking for the dowry, also invited Zhang Zhongyu to sit, but Zhang Zhongyu said, “There’s a Meixiang outside; how can I take care of everything? I can’t have her resenting me.” He clasped his hands in a gesture of farewell and left, pointing at Zi Yun and saying, “It’s always you who takes care of things.” He laughed and walked out. Wang Wenhui adjusted his court boots, stroked his long beard, exchanged a few words with Mr. Hua and Xu Zi Yun, and then strolled outside.
Chun Hang, after thanking the guests, relaxed and performed a play himself. Mr. Hua said, “The weather is hot, there’s no need to keep performing. Let them rest.” When the eight actresses came on stage, Mr. Hua noticed that Huifang was absent and asked Chun Hang, “Why don’t I see the top scholar’s wife? Is she still in the accounting room?” Chun Hang felt embarrassed and didn’t know how to respond. Zi Yun laughed and said, “Now we have two top scholar’s wives, just like in the play The Swallow Letter’s ‘The Imperial Decree Round’.” Mr. Hua realized he had misspoken and stopped asking. He then noticed Su Lan, whose beauty and elegance stood out, so he called her forward and said, “The poem you wrote on that ‘Night of Wind and Moon’ painting last year, I’ve had it mounted as a scroll. I even had several people inscribe comments on it. The painting is truly beautiful, and the calligraphy is excellent. Everyone praises it.”
This translation retains every detail, including dialogue, without summarizing or retelling.
Here is the translation of the text, paragraph by paragraph, without missing any detail:
Mr. Hua then said to Zi Yun, “This gentleman’s charm is no less than that of Yuan or Su. His appearance resembles Qin Yan, but his intelligence surpasses him.” This praise made Su Lan very happy. Mr. Hua then asked Mei Ziyu, “Although this is our first meeting, I have long admired you. There was a man named Wei Pincai who moved out of your residence and stayed with me for half a year. He often mentioned you, and there’s something I wish to ask you about.” Mei Ziyu, unsure of what Mr. Hua wanted to ask, responded, “Brother Wei often spoke of your esteemed family, but since we haven’t met before, I didn’t dare to visit. What advice might you have for me?” Mr. Hua said, “It’s a minor matter, but I’ve been unable to understand it. I heard you and Qin Yan had a close bond and a vow of unchanging loyalty. Qin Yan stayed with me, so I’ve heard things about him. Now that he has left the capital with my mentor, I wonder how you could bear to part with him, and why Qin Yan would travel so freely. Could you explain this in detail?” This question left Mei Ziyu speechless, his face showing shame and his heart filled with sadness. Zi Yun, seeing that Mei Ziyu was in a difficult position, laughed and said, “You should be asking me. My younger brother Yu Xiang is deep in emotion but clumsy with words. You ask how he could bear to part and why Qin Yan left willingly—the answer is quite simple. Yu Xiang’s love runs deep, and he wanted to fulfill Qin Yan’s aspirations, which is why he allowed him to leave with your mentor. Moreover, your mentor has adopted Qin Yan as his foster son, raising him from humble origins to great heights. Qin Yan understands this and chooses to repay such kindness with success, which is better than sacrificing himself for it.” Mr. Hua nodded and sighed, and Mei Ziyu finally felt at ease.
Mr. Hua then chatted with Gao Pin, Nan Xiang, Zhongqing, Wang Xun, Wen Ze, and Ci Xian, discussing various topics. He learned that Gao Pin had just come from Suzhou and asked about the landscapes of Jiangsu. By chance, he noticed that Su Lan’s fan was finely painted on one side and asked to see it. After examining it for a while, he noticed small script on the other side with a poem titled “Heartbreaking Song.” Mr. Hua remarked, “How can a heart break so lightly?” Mei Ziyu, upon seeing this, felt uneasy. Mr. Hua softly recited the poem and then asked Su Lan, “Is this your own work?” Su Lan replied, “The writing and painting were done carelessly. As for the poem…” she pointed to Mei Ziyu and said, “It was a gift from Master Mei to Lady Yu.” Mr. Hua folded the fan and said to Mei Ziyu, “Upon seeing it, I suspected it was your work. Only someone with deep feelings could write this. Indeed, it is so.” He then smiled and asked, “Can the dream truly be called back or not?” Mei Ziyu was at a loss for words, and everyone laughed.
Suddenly, Lin Shanzhi came in, and Mr. Hua called for his clothes. After putting them on, he took his leave of Chun Hang, saying, “I still have matters to attend to at a relative’s house. I’ll send a sedan chair tomorrow morning to meet again.” He clasped his hands in farewell and left. The relatives who had brought the dowry had already departed. The others saw Mr. Hua off at the steps, but only Chun Hang accompanied him out. Su Lan, noticing that Mr. Hua had taken her fan, followed them outside. As Mr. Hua was about to board the carriage, he saw Su Lan coming and realized she wanted her fan back, but he was fond of the poem and reluctant to part with it. He smiled and said to Su Lan, “You really don’t understand. On such a happy day, why would you bring out a fan with a ‘Heartbreaking Song’? Don’t you know people find it inauspicious?” As he spoke, he took a fan from his own fan case and handed it to Su Lan, saying, “Take this one instead.” Su Lan thanked him and bowed, and Mr. Hua got into the sedan chair and left. Chun Hang and Su Lan returned inside, and Su Lan told everyone about the fan exchange with Mr. Hua. When she opened Mr. Hua’s fan for the scholars to see, they saw that one side was painted with two peach blossoms, one red and one white, and on the other side was a beautiful inscription in small script. The inscription contained two verses of the “Liangzhou Suite” opera, with a note that said, “Admiring peach blossoms at Jin Cuo Garden while singing ‘The Peach Blossom Fan’.” Chun Hang remarked, “This calligraphy looks like the work of a woman from the inner chambers.” Everyone admired the verses, praising the blend of emotion and elegance, as well as the natural beauty of the composition. Mei Ziyu said, “The second verse sounds like it was written in a woman’s voice.” Zi Yun remarked, “Could it be that his wife wrote it? These two verses seem to be a couplet.” Zhongqing said, “It’s unlikely. If it was written by his wife, would he give it to someone?” Ci Xian replied, “That makes sense.” While the scholars continued their conversation in the garden, back at Gathering Stars Hall, Wang Wenhui noticed that none of the famous actresses had come, feeling somewhat lonely, though he didn’t want to summon them. Knowing that Huifang was in the accounting room, he called her out. Huifang, exhausted, was happy to have a break and went to sit next to Wang Wenhui. At one table were Liu Shouzheng, Zhou Xijue, and Yang Fangyou, while at the other were Wang Wenhui, Lu Zongyuan, and Zhang Tongsun. Wang Wenhui said, “I know you’ve been very busy these past few days, so I called you out for a rest. There shouldn’t be much going on now.” Huifang replied, “There’s not much left to do. I’ve been learning from Mr. Zhang, who really is meticulous—nothing escapes him.” Lu Zongyuan said, “That’s Zhang Laoer’s specialty. When it comes to this kind of work, no one can handle the accounting room but him.” Wang Wenhui then asked Huifang, “What are your plans for the future? You should make a decision. If I ever get assigned to an external post, why not come with me? I’ll have you manage the accounts.” Huifang laughed, “Manage the accounts? I’ve only been helping in the accounting room for a few days, and it’s already left me dizzy. How could I manage accounts for you? I do have an idea, though. Several others are also interested. I’m thinking of opening a shop for antiques, books, and paintings, while also selling silks, paper, embroidery, perfumes, and flowers. We’d source these goods from Suzhou and Hangzhou. There’s a ready-made house near Du Xiang’s place, with some empty rooms and a small garden. If we all chip in and make it work, it could be quite fun. We don’t expect to make a fortune—just to settle down and gather with a few close friends so we won’t be scattered all over.” Wang Wenhui said, “That sounds great. I’d like to take a share in it too, and I’ll be your shopkeeper.” Huifang laughed, “I can’t afford to hire you. You’ll soon be appointed governor. If you have any unwanted antiques, you could let us display them for a bit.”
This translation remains faithful to the original text, with every detail and dialogue included.
Here is the paragraph-by-paragraph translation of the text as requested, without missing any details:
Wang Wenhui said, “Yes, yes! If I get appointed as governor, I’ll leave behind everything that’s too cumbersome to carry.” Huifang laughed, “The things that are too hard to carry must be bulky and awkward. Don’t leave behind things like wooden furniture, iron stoves, or iron fireboxes at my place—I won’t be grateful for that.” Lu Zongyuan and Zhang Tongsun laughed, and Wang Wenhui also laughed, lightly tapping Huifang with his fan, “You’re underestimating me! How dare you?” Huifang also laughed. Wang Wenhui played with his long beard, and Huifang remarked, “Why is your beard turning black? Did your concubine order you to dye it?” Wang Wenhui laughed, “That’s nonsense!” Then he looked at his beard and said, “I’m getting old. Even though you young people joke around with us, in your hearts, you must look down on us.”
Lu Zongyuan laughed and said, “Don’t lump us all together—my beard isn’t dyed.” At the nearby table, Minister Liu, Zhou Xijue, and Yang Fangyou also laughed, but Zhang Tongsun, being a Confucian scholar, didn’t know how to joke around. Zhou Xijue said, “Zhifu, did you get the formula for that beard dye from your in-laws?” Wang Wenhui replied, “With the few strands of beard he has, what need does he have for beard dye?” Then, realizing the joke, he burst into laughter. Lu Zongyuan understood and laughed as well.
Liu Shouzheng and Yang Fangyou didn’t understand the joke and repeatedly asked about it. Wang Wenhui explained the story about Liang Gong’s daughter painting her hair black, and everyone laughed, even Zhang Tongsun. Zhou Xijue said, “Given this, Zhifu, why don’t you borrow a fake beard from the opera troupe to wear? That way, you won’t risk smudging your wife’s face with your dyed beard.” Liu Shouzheng added, “Once you start dyeing it, it’ll extend all the way to your chest.” Wang Wenhui replied, “Stop wagging your tongue!” Lu Zongyuan laughed and said, “How did you measure the length so precisely?” Huifang chimed in, “Wearing a fake beard is a good idea. Why not just shave off your real beard? You can wear the fake one when you go out, and take it off when you’re at home—it would look much better!” Everyone laughed again, and Wang Wenhui tapped Huifang twice on the shoulder with his fan, laughing as he scolded, “You sharp-tongued rascal! No wonder Tian Xiangfan is so obedient under your control, not daring to resist you. But your reign only lasts for today. Tomorrow, the real top scholar’s wife will arrive—let’s see what you do then!” Huifang blushed and said, “What nonsense! Such rude teasing!” Zhou Xijue said, “Meixiang, don’t pay attention to him. Come over here and let’s chat.” Huifang went over to their table, played a round of the drinking game, and then moved to another table. Zhang Zhongyu called Huifang away again. Everyone had been sitting all day, and it was still early for the wedding procession, so they took a break.
The prosperity of the Su family is too much to describe in detail. Early the next morning, Chun Hang performed the ritual of personally fetching his bride. Afterward, Zi Yun and the wedding party escorted the bridal sedan chair to the Su residence. Once all the ceremonial formalities were completed, the bridal sedan returned. Along the way, there was music and celebration, with a bustling crowd and a procession of carriages and horses filling the streets—it was incredibly lively. Upon entering the house, they invited the bride out for the wedding ceremony under the flower candles. The scene was adorned with jewels and fragrant flowers, the atmosphere warm and fragrant, a picture of luxury and romance. The outside guests and scholars continued their lively celebrations for the rest of the day. That night, when Chun Hang entered the bridal chamber and saw the bride, it was just as Zi Yun had said—she truly resembled Huifang. The atmosphere was filled with tenderness and contentment, a perfect match of a talented scholar and a beautiful maiden, as if they were an immortal couple blessed with earthly happiness.
The next day, Madam Su invited her elder sister-in-law, Huanxiang, and Xu Zi Yun’s wife, Yuan Qixiang, to accompany the bride for the morning wine ritual. Madam Tian invited Wang Wenhui’s wife, Madam Lu, along with her sister-in-law, Ronghua, and her daughter-in-law, Sun’s young wife, Peiqiu. She also invited Minister Liu Shouzheng’s wife, who didn’t attend, but Liu’s daughter-in-law, Madam Wu Ziyan, came instead. The wives of Zhou Xijue, Yang Fangyou, and Lu Zongyuan all sent their regrets.
Meanwhile, Madam Hua had risen early to dress, attended by her maids. Once she was fully prepared, Mr. Hua entered and sat by the dressing table for a while. Suddenly, he smiled and said, “I wonder what’s going on in my second sister’s mind right now—does she feel sorrow or joy?” Madam Hua smiled and replied, “It’s funny to hear a brother-in-law say such a thing.” The maids all smiled as well. Madam Hua noticed that the fan in Mr. Hua’s hand wasn’t the one he had written on a few days ago, so she asked to see it. After reading the poem on the fan, she said, “What a lovely poem. Where did this fan come from?” Mr. Hua replied, “It belongs to Lu Sulan. I liked the poem, so I brought it back.” Madam Hua said, “This is a good poem, but it doesn’t seem like something one would give to a friend. If it’s for a friend, why does it say, ‘We thought we’d be together forever, but the Silver River now separates us’? If it’s about a husband and wife parting, it doesn’t fit either. And if it’s a gift for a courtesan, it still doesn’t seem quite right. However, the emotions in it are so genuine that it’s quite touching.” Mr. Hua smiled and said, “You have a good eye. Your critique is spot on. This poem was written by someone for Qin Yan. Isn’t it true that it’s not quite like a husband and wife, nor exactly like friends or courtesans? Yet it expresses such deep emotions that it truly moves the soul.” Madam Hua asked, “Did Du Xiang write it?” Mr. Hua replied, “No, it was written by Mei Yuxiang, Qin Yan’s close friend from the past.” Madam Hua then asked, “What happened to the fan I wrote on the other day? Don’t show it to anyone.” Mr. Hua suddenly remembered that he had given it to Sulan and felt regret for not paying attention. He quickly said, “I haven’t shown it to anyone. I was afraid it might get worn out, so I put it away.” Madam Hua didn’t suspect anything. She prepared to leave, taking with her six maids—Baozhu, Aizhu, Ruizhu, Zhenzhu, Mingzhu, and Zhangzhu—along with Xiaoxiang and two maidservants. Since it was early autumn and still warm, she didn’t pack many clothes, just a small embroidered chest and box containing some jewelry and cosmetics. Outside, an elderly steward rode a horse, and Jinling, Yuling, Lanling, and Guiling followed on horseback as attendants. Madam Hua left the room and went to the inner flower hall, where she sat in a sedan chair. After passing through the flowered gate, she boarded a carriage. There was a separate road for the carriage, which passed around the main hall. The family servants mounted their horses, and eight large carriages followed, carrying the maids. The carriages, adorned with embroidered wheels, flowed out of the city like a stream. Upon arriving at the Tian residence, all the ladies had already gathered. Madam Tian came down the steps to welcome her, while the maids supported Madam Hua as she entered. When Madam Tian saw her, she thought she looked like a celestial fairy descending to earth, a jade maiden visiting the mortal world. As they ascended the steps, Madam Tian took Madam Hua’s hand. The other ladies came forward to greet her, and Madam Hua responded courteously. The housekeeper spread out a red carpet, and Madam Hua prepared to bow in greeting. Madam Tian refused multiple times but finally relented. Madam Hua completed her bow, and Madam Tian returned the gesture. Afterward, Madam Hua greeted the other ladies. Aside from Xu Duxiang’s wife, she didn’t know anyone, so Madam Xu introduced them all. Then the bride was called out to bow. She greeted her mother-in-law and then bowed to each of the ladies. The six maids knelt before Madam Tian, followed by the bride, who also knelt to offer congratulations. Seventeen or eighteen maids and servants from the Su family, along with Sister Xu, came forward to kneel before Madam Hua, filling the three flower rooms to the brim.
This translation retains every detail, dialogue, and interaction without summarization.
Here is the translation of the text paragraph by paragraph, without missing any detail:
The drums and music started the play. The bride was seated at the center of the main table, with two separate tables on the east and west. Madam Tian took her seat, and Madam Xu sat at the head of the table. Madam Xu said, “Why are you treating your niece like a guest, Aunt? This head seat should go to the new relative, and it’s only proper for Sister Hua to sit here.” Madam Tian had no choice but to ask Madam Hua to take the seat. Madam Hua replied, “How can this niece of yours sit in such a place?” She turned to Madam Xu and said, “Sister, how many times have we gathered as sisters, and yet today you’re pushing me to sit here?” Madam Xu said, “In the past, I might have been the one to take your place, but today, you are the new relative. Besides, you came from far away, and I live nearby. How can I take your place?” Madam Hua replied, “Today, our mother invited you to accompany my younger sister, and I am here to follow you. How can you ask me to sit here?” Madam Xu laughed and said, “Today, I am determined to give up this seat. Not only will I not sit at the head of this table, but I won’t take the head seat over there either. That place should go to Old Madam Wang.” Madam Tian said, “This niece of mine is too modest. If we were to go by seniority, the head seat would certainly go to Madam Wang, but I invited her to accompany us, so she can make a little sacrifice. Niece, you don’t need to be so humble—just sit straight.” But Madam Xu refused to sit and said, “Since you command it, Aunt, I’ll take the other table, but I won’t sit here.” With that, she moved to the western table. Seeing that Madam Xu was insistent, Madam Tian had no choice but to offer the seat again to Madam Hua. Madam Hua continued to decline until Madam Xu finally persuaded her to sit. With the help of Madam Lu and Madam Tian, Madam Hua finally sat down. Madam Lu took the second seat at the eastern table, and Madam Liu took the third. Madam Wang took the second seat at the western table, and Madam Yan took the third. Madam Tian accompanied them at the eastern table.
Madam Lu turned to Madam Tian and said, “Lady Tian, there’s no need for you to go over there to fuss about.” She then called Ronghua and said, “Why don’t you take over as host over there? It’ll save Lady Tian the trouble of moving back and forth.” Madam Tian smiled and stood up, saying, “If my niece takes care of things, that would be wonderful.” She then bowed twice, and Ronghua quickly returned the gesture. Madam Lu said, “You are too kind, Lady Tian. It’s only fitting that your daughter-in-law helps out. They will enjoy the gathering even more without feeling constrained by your presence.” Madam Tian was delighted when she saw how beautiful and graceful her new daughter-in-law was. Looking at Madam Hua, it was clear they were sisters, equally delicate and charming, almost indistinguishable. As she observed them, she felt as though she had seen them before but couldn’t place where. Finally, she realized they resembled Su Huifang, which explained the familiarity. Madam Xu’s wife, Yuan Qixiang, was also elegant, with fair skin and a graceful demeanor, a perfect match for Xu Zi Yun. Madam Liu was gentle and lovable, while Madam Yan was exceptionally beautiful, with a free-spirited charm. Madam Wang was serene and graceful, similar in appearance to Madam Liu.
Looking at Madam Lu, although she was past forty, she still exuded elegance. Her outfit and appearance were impeccable, and despite a few freckles on her slightly prominent cheekbones, from a distance, she still looked like an extraordinary beauty—a person of great intelligence and capability.
Madam Lu said, “It seems that Lady Tian truly has boundless blessings, with a top scholar for a son and a celestial daughter-in-law. You must be like the Queen Mother of Heaven or a reincarnation of a divine spirit, to be surrounded by such fairy-like children. Even though we aren’t part of the Peach Blossom Feast, we are fortunate to bask in your blessings today.” Madam Tian laughed and said, “I see that you, Lady Lu, are also truly blessed. You hold the title of Second Rank Imperial Consort, and soon you’ll be of the First Rank. With such fine sons and daughters-in-law to bring you joy every day, and two daughters still at home, who are also married to outstanding young men, your family is remarkable! Your eldest son-in-law is already quite exceptional, and when I saw your second son-in-law recently, I thought, who could surpass him? His scholarly talents are something my son greatly admires. I wouldn’t be surprised if you had three top scholars in your family in the next examination!” Madam Lu smiled brightly and said, “You view me as blessed, but in truth, I worry about everything at home, including outside matters. Our master doesn’t handle household affairs. As for my sons and sons-in-law, they’re not bad, but none of them have passed the exams yet. I often blame my husband for this. Last year, he became an examiner, and I foresaw trouble. I advised him to take a month’s sick leave to avoid this duty, but he insisted on going ahead, saying it was just as good as if his students passed, as if that would be enough for our sons and sons-in-law to pass. But look, is it the same? If he had listened to me and allowed all three of them to take the exam, at least one of them would have passed, right? But he ruined everything. Now, there’s talk of the Erudite Scholar exam in August, a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. If they pass, they could become Hanlin scholars, but who knows if they’ll pass? And if my husband gets appointed as an examiner again, it’ll ruin everything!” Lady Tian, compared to you, my earlier years may have been fortunate, but I’m afraid my later years won’t be as lucky.”
Madam Hua and Madam Liu listened to Madam Lu’s clear and lively voice, finding her words quite amusing. They also noticed that as she spoke, her gold bracelets and bangles jingled with a pleasant sound as she gestured with her rolled-up sleeves. Her lively and sharp demeanor made her quite charming. At the other table, Madam Xu laughed and said, “Madam, there’s no need for such modesty. I see both of you as equals—one the Holy Mother of the East, the other the Lady of the Southern Peak, perfectly matched.” After sitting for a while, the bride excused herself. The conversation between the ladies was lively, while down below, Sister Xu was overseeing everything. Xu’s maids—Hongxue, Honglian, Hongxiang, Hongyu, Hongmei, Hongyue, Honglu, and Hongluo—joined with Hua’s maids, the six pearls, along with the house servants and maids, to make up eight tables. Among them were those who chatted and laughed, those who ate and drank heartily, those who remained quiet and reserved, and those who barely touched their food. Each had their own manner. Sister Xu was busy managing everything, moving about like a whirlwind.
After listening to a few acts of the play, the rewards were distributed, and the banquet came to an end. The ladies all went to sit in the bridal chamber. Madam Hua spoke with her sister for quite some time before taking her leave. Madam Xu wanted to invite her to tour the garden, but Madam Hua declined, saying it was late and promising to return another day. She then took her maids and boarded the sedan chair to leave. Madam Xu also said her farewells, and Madam Lu returned home with her daughter and daughter-in-law. Madam Liu also left, and Madam Tian saw each of them off. What happened next will be revealed in the following chapter.
This translation retains every detail, including all dialogue and actions, as requested.