One of the Ten Forbidden Books of the Ming and Qing Dynasties: Swallow Letter

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Table of Contents
Summary
Chapter One: Farewell to My Teacher, Arrival
in the Capital for the Examination
, Gift of a Painting of 　　Guanyin to My Good Friends Chapter Two: While Waiting for the Examination, I Stay in an Inn, Plotting Rebellion, Hunting Along the Way
Chapter Three: Old Acquaintances Exchange Money, Scholars Reunite, and I Write a Poem for Springtime Beauty Chapter Four: Clerk Zang Reports on Examination Abuses, Old Woman Miao Gets Drunk and Acts Madly Chapter Five: A Mistaken Painting is Taken, Startlingly Resembling a Poem, and the Letter is Departed to Be Carried 　　by Swallows Chapter Six: Huo Xiufu Picks Up a Character at Qujiang, Jia Nanzhong Sets Up Camp at Hulao Pass 　　Chapter Seven: The Secret is Leaked, Mei Xiang's Ugly Demeanor Turns into the Clerk's Words 　　Chapter Eight: Changing Seat Numbers to Test the Waters, Explaining the Reasons for Treating an Illness 　　Chapter Nine: Without Making Things Work, It's Hard to Succeed, Clerk's Dance Creates a Treacherous Scheme, Easily Frightening Friends 　　Chapter Ten: Huo Xiu Fu flees to his inn; 　　An Lushan breaks through Tongguan Pass. Chapter Eleven: Minister Li escorts the emperor to the imperial examinations; General Jia takes in his daughter and befriends her. Chapter Twelve 　　: The wife mistakenly identifies her own daughter; Xiu Shi is newly invited to join the inner circle. Chapter 　　Thirteen: Joining the army and writing a proclamation terrifies the rebels; the military governor, appreciating talent, grants a marriage alliance. 　　Chapter Fourteen: The handsome young man and the old woman hold a wedding ceremony in the army; the old woman petitions the emperor. Chapter Fifteen: The top scholar secretly visits his teacher; Hua Xingyun's adopted daughter 　　exposes her corruption 　　before her father. Chapter Sixteen: 　　The seemingly refined scholar locks himself in his study; truly ignorant, he escapes through a dog hole. Chapter Seventeen: 　　After a long separation, they reunite with joy; each recounts their past. 　　Chapter Eighteen: An imperial decree grants a double banquet; both wives and children receive honors　　　. Summary: A Qing Dynasty novel. Six volumes, eighteen chapters. There is a Yingxunlou edition, titled "Commentary by the Master of Playing with Flowers." The author of the A Ying collection is signed "Dan Yuan," but his real name is unknown. 　　The book narrates the passionate love affair between Huo Duliang, a talented scholar of the Tang Dynasty, and Hua Xingyun, a courtesan. Huo was skilled in painting, creating the painting "Listening to the Orioles and Catching Butterflies." A mounting craftsman mistakenly delivered a painting to Li Feiyun, the daughter of a high-ranking official. Li was captivated by the painting, falling in love with the scholar depicted in it, and inscribed a poem upon it. The poem, once completed, was carried away by a swallow and eventually found by Huo Duliang. Both fell ill with lovesickness. Just then, the imperial court held its civil service examinations, and Huo and his friend Xianyu Ji both took the exams. Xianyu Ji bribed officials to obtain Huo's exam paper and pass it off as his own. Before the results were announced, the An Lushan Rebellion broke out, and Li and Hua were separated during the chaos. Li was rescued by the military governor Jia Nanzhong. Jia arranged a marriage between Li Feiyun and Huo Duliang. Hua was rescued by Minister Li and adopted as his goddaughter. After the rebellion was quelled, the results were announced, and Xianyu Ji topped the list. Hua, who knew of Xianyu Ji's disgraceful conduct, told Minister Li the truth, resulting in a re-examination with stricter standards. Xianyu Ji's disgraceful conduct was exposed, Huo Duliang achieved the highest rank, and he and Hua were reunited. 　　The novel is adapted from the legendary tale of the same name by Ruan Dacheng of the late Ming Dynasty, with an additional chapter at the beginning and end. The first chapter bitterly denounces Ruan Dacheng as a remnant of the eunuch Wei Zhongxian, yet also highly praises "The Swallow's Letter," arguing that one should not dismiss a work because of its author. The final chapter concludes by comparing the novel and the legend. Although the book does not escape the clichés of polygamy and talented scholars and beautiful women, the plot is intricate and vivid, the character descriptions are delicate and moving, and the language is lively and witty. Although adapted from a legend, the book manages to develop a unique style based on the characteristics of a novel, avoiding a sense of imitation. However, it has a strong scholarly air and is not popular or accessible enough. The epilogue, ending with Xianyu Ji receiving his retribution in the underworld and both women receiving great honors, is superfluous. 　　Chapter One: Farewell to My Teacher, Arriving in the Capital for the Examination 　　, Presenting a Gift to My Good Friend - A Painting of Guanyin. A talented scholar from Fufeng, a descendant of the legendary courtier, surnamed Huo, from Duliang. He takes a friend to Chang'an to take the examination, but since the examination is still far off, he seeks pleasure and temporarily passes through Pingkang. With a brush of ink, I hear orioles fluttering and butterflies chasing, and paint a portrait of Yunniang. 　　Unexpectedly, a noblewoman, like a courtesan, is equally beautiful. She writes poems of spring's beauty, carried by swallows. Plotted against by her peers, she changes her name and decides to serve the king. Two beauties side by side, a unicorn in the high pavilion, a top scholar on horseback. 　　—Han Palace Spring 　　In this world, only marriage is determined by fate, beyond human control. Some are arranged by matchmakers, others begin with separation but end in perfect harmony. Some are chosen by their discerning eye, others by fate. And some are bound by destiny, like red leaves and flowing water, like silken baskets, like poems inscribed on cotton robes. From ancient times to the present, countless examples exist, but the union of talented men and beautiful women is most difficult, often involving countless separations and reunions, endless gossip and disputes, before they can finally be together. In short, their names must be recorded in the marriage register of the Old Man Under the Moon; though they may face obstacles, their union is ultimately perfect. Therefore, I said, "Marriage is always preordained by Heaven, and cannot be changed by human intervention." But enough of this digression; let me tell you a most extraordinary story. 　　During the reign of Emperor Yuanzong of the Tang Dynasty, there was a talented scholar named Huo Duliang, courtesy name Xiufu, from Maoling, Fufeng. He was a descendant of Yao Shi, and had recently been living in Xi'an. He was as handsome as Pan An, as talented as Ban Gu and Ma Chao, and possessed a refined and elegant demeanor. He was brimming with literary talent, not only composing poems and lyrics but also skilled in painting. However, his parents had died early, and he had no family, drifting aimlessly in a foreign land. Fortunately, he was fortunate to be visited by Mr. Ren Guangwen, surnamed Qin, named Ruoshui, a wise and experienced elder who had a long-standing friendship with the Huo family. Admiring Huo's talent, Mr. Ren invited him to study in his office, where they discussed matters day and night and found themselves very compatible. 　　One day, Huo sat alone in his study, and suddenly sighed. He said, “I am deeply grateful to Mr. Qin for treating me with the respect due to a national hero. However, considering my current situation, being alone and helpless, I feel quite desolate. I don’t know when I will be able to fulfill my lofty ambitions and enjoy the pleasures of flight, thus completing my life’s great undertaking. Now, in the bright spring, the scenery is captivating. Since I cannot go to the countryside to leisurely enjoy myself, I will stroll around the ponds and gardens around the academy to pass the time. Look: the plum blossoms are reflected in the pond, and the reeds on the banks are carpeted with grass. Winter has just passed, and the bright sunshine has arrived again. It is indeed a different scene altogether. I often think of Pan Anren’s handsome face, and whenever women see him while they are out enjoying themselves…” He was showered with fruit, and by chance, during the Lantern Festival, a beautiful woman gave him a golden sparrow, and they were thus betrothed. Later, he lived in Heyang, a place called Huaxian, and his name has been passed down through the ages. I, Huo Duliang, though talented, have not achieved fame or fortune, nor have I been betrothed to a lover. Why is my fate so unfortunate?” 　　Just as he was lamenting to himself, a gatekeeper from the school came up to him, holding a letter in his hand. He said to Huo Sheng, “This letter was sent by Master Xianyu. He said that Chang’an is recruiting talents this year, and he has already set off and is waiting for you to travel with him at an inn along the way.” He then handed over the letter. 　　Huo Sheng took it, unsealed it, and silently read it aloud, saying, "Since Master Xianyu has already left, I will pack my things and catch up with him sooner or later. It would be best if I could go with him." The gatekeeper said, "I am very grateful for your kindness, but I have something I cannot say." Huo Sheng said, "Please speak freely." The gatekeeper said, "I think Master Xianyu is not as good a person as you. He is shifty-eyed and not a sincere person. Moreover, he is involved in brothels and doesn't realize how easily he might be corrupted. It would be better if we went our separate ways." Huo Sheng said: "Thank you for your kindness. However, I have been his classmate for a long time, so it is not a problem for us to work together for the time being. After I pass the imperial examination, I will naturally distinguish right from wrong and not let him influence me. Please ask Master Qin to come out so that I can say goodbye in person. It will be fine for you to leave tomorrow morning." The gatekeeper then relayed the message inside. Upon hearing this, Master Qin said, "I was informed today that I have been promoted to magistrate of Qianyang County. Due to the requirements of my academic qualifications, I have taken up my post. I was just about to bid farewell to my student Huo Xiufu. May I ask what you have to say to him?" 　　When Huo Xiufu saw his teacher come out, he bowed and left. Master Qin returned the bow. Huo Sheng said, "I have been deeply grateful for your instruction over the years. Today, a classmate wrote to me saying that the examination is approaching and we have agreed to take it together. He specially asked you to come out and bid me farewell, so that I may depart tomorrow morning." Instructor Qin said, "I see, how wonderful! You are a man of great talent and learning, a peerless scholar. You will surely excel in the imperial examination. I heard today that I have been promoted to Qianyang and am currently making preparations for my new post. I have some small gifts to offer as a farewell gift. I will offer my congratulations again when you pass the examination!" He told the attendant to bring the gifts and give them to the instructor. 　　Huo Sheng took them and said, "Thank you for your trouble, teacher." Then he bowed and left. Instructor Qin said, "It's alright. I hope you will achieve great success in your new position and live up to my expectations." Huo Sheng said, "I am of meager talent and fear I cannot fulfill your wishes. My books and sword case are all ready. I bid you farewell now and hope you will depart tomorrow morning." He then took his leave. Qin Xueguan said, "I won't personally see you off tomorrow morning. Take care on your journey." Huo Sheng replied, "Thank you for your guidance. Please return, teacher." They then went to their respective rooms to prepare to depart the next morning. It was truly a scene of idyllic beauty: " 　　The Jade Pot Spring Wine is just right to carry, a country inn and mountain bridge bid farewell to the horse's hooves; 　　from now on, we'll gaze at the bright moon over Chang'an, the flowing water of the Longtou region swallowing our thoughts east and west."

Leaving aside the matter of Huo Sheng bidding farewell to his teacher to attend the appointment, let us now turn to the Minister of Rites, Li Andao. Originally a scholar by examination, he now held this position and was known for his upright character and impartiality. His wife, Madam Bao, was a virtuous and devoted wife, bearing only one daughter named Feiyun. Feiyun was gentle and beautiful, possessing exceptional needlework skills and a profound knowledge of literature, poetry, and prose. However, she was childless in her old age, a slight disappointment. One day, returning from court with nothing to do at the office, he wished to spend some time in the garden under the flowers. He instructed his servant to quickly invite his wife and daughter out.
The servant went inside to report, and there, his wife led his daughter into the hall. After the formalities were completed, Minister Li said, “Madam, daughter, I am over sixty years old, my teeth and hair are thinning, and I should be content with my official career and avoid trouble early. But I have repeatedly petitioned to retire, yet His Majesty has always refused. What should I do?” The lady said, “Husband, the country is currently facing many troubles, and you are not yet old. You should devote yourself to public service and not seek personal gain.” Minister Li said, “Madam is right.” Feiyun said, “Seeing the bright spring sunshine, and with Father having some leisure time after his meal, I have prepared a cup of spring wine today to celebrate Mother’s birthday.” Minister Li said, “You will be very kind to me.”
They then took their seats, and the young lady personally served the wine. Minister Li drank a few cups, and, emboldened by the wine, said, “When I was young… ” Having passed the imperial examinations and received numerous imperial favors, he is now frail and often wishes to retire and return home to pay respects to his ancestors, sweep their graves, and hold daily feasts with relatives and clansmen to soothe his aging heart. However, An Lushan's treacherous plot in Hanyang makes it difficult for him to escape. His wife said, "My lord! We are a devoted couple, supporting each other through thick and thin. Don't let the lack of an heir cause you sorrow." She then pointed to Miss Feiyun and said, "This girl is knowledgeable and courteous, truly a paragon among women. She will find a good husband and enjoy a happy life." Upon hearing this, Feiyun bowed again and said, "I only wish for my parents' good health, and I am willing to serve them for life. Why must we be bound by marriage, which would only create more barriers between us?"
As they were chatting, drinking, and admiring the flowers and plum blossoms, a drum suddenly sounded outside, announcing, "The Heavenly Hero Army..." "The Governor, my fellow graduate Jia, has sent a messenger with a letter. He is waiting outside." Minister Li instructed, "Bring it in for me." The gatekeeper brought it in from a rotating drum, and the servant took it, saying, "Reporting to Your Excellency, the letter is here."
Minister Li took the letter, opened it, and read it clearly. Then he said to his wife and daughter, "This is my fellow graduate, the Governor of Tianxiong, Jia, named Nan Zhong. We are very close, like brothers. He sent this to inquire after me. However, there are too many gifts; it's not reasonable to accept them all!" His wife said, "This is a very meaningful visit. Accepting one or two items would be appropriate."
After reading the list of gifts, the Minister hesitated for a while and said, "Very well, accept his Wu Daozi's 'Ink Guanyin' painting! Bring it here to look at." The servant hurriedly unfolded it, and the Minister... He examined it carefully and said, "This painting is indeed a genuine work by Wu Daozi; it's a rare find these days." The young lady, watching from the side, said, "Give this portrait to my child." Minister Li said, "Very well." He then told the servant, "You may take this painting, mount it properly, and give it to the young lady." The servant replied, "Yes, sir. The official in this yamen is Miao Jiling, a very skilled mounter; send it to him for mounting." The minister said, "That's up to you. You can tell Master Jia's messenger to pick up the letter tomorrow." The servant responded, "Yes, sir." Minister Li said, "I have business at the yamen tomorrow; rest early, and let's go back to the courtyard together."
Because of this painting, many things happened; let's hear the next chapter for details.
Chapter Two: While waiting for the exam
, Xianyu Ji sought refuge in an inn, plotting rebellion and hunting along the way. He kept pacing the inn's doorway, saying, "Why did I ask Huo Xiufu to come with me? I planned to have him do the exam for me if I didn't pass; he's my savior. I remember when we were classmates, he was intelligent and diligent, always with a book in his hand, which is why he's so learned. But when I pick up a book, I feel sleepy; away from the study, I'm exceptionally energetic. What's the reason for this?"
He then thought, "I'm proficient in everything else; they can't fool me. Only when it comes to literature do I become so muddled. Besides, my family isn't short of money; we have oil, salt, soy sauce, vinegar, firewood..." Rice and tea were provided for all classes. As for my knowledge of literature, I had absolutely none—not even a trace of classical Chinese characters. It would be one thing to be unrefined, but I still desperately wanted a reputation. Every time I entered the examination hall, I would boast to others, "The top spot is clearly mine!" Only I knew this. The grand examination was approaching, and the other day I asked my friend Dou to invite my classmate, Xiu Fu Huo, to take the exam together. He was exceptionally talented, honest, and easily manipulated. I figured I'd need his corrections during the exam, and he wouldn't refuse to write for me. I thought he'd be here soon.
Looking up, I saw him riding a horse with a sword at his side, approaching quickly. When he reached me, he saw Xianyu Ji, dismounted, and they bowed to each other. Xian Sheng said, "Brother Huo, you've arrived! What a joy! I sent you a letter yesterday, I imagine it has arrived. I've been waiting here for you." Huo Sheng replied, "I am very grateful for your invitation the other day, but I had to part ways with Mr. Qin at the academy, hence my late arrival. I apologize!" Xian Sheng said, "The weather is fine today, perfect for a journey. Please, please!" Huo Sheng said, "I'm being presumptuous."
The two walked along ancient paths lined with weeping willows, across long bridges spanning the riverbanks; they slept by the water and ate in the wind, traveling by day and resting by night, and before they knew it, they had arrived in Chang'an. They entered the city gate and wandered through the streets and alleys. Xian Sheng said, "This is the entrance to the innkeeper's shop, Xiang Nianyao. Be careful, let's stay at his place." Huo Sheng said, "Sure. Where is the innkeeper?" The innkeeper came out and said, "So it's you two gentlemen, please come in and have a seat."
The two went into the inn and exchanged greetings. Xian Sheng said to the shopkeeper, "It's been several years, yet you're still so robust. You don't look like a seventy-year-old man." The shopkeeper replied, "Indeed, indeed. Both of you gentlemen look quite different from usual. You must both be in high spirits today. However, there's one thing: the examination has been moved to the beginning of April." Huo Sheng asked, "What's the reason for this?" The shopkeeper said, "Because of news of An Lushan's rebellion, there are matters at court, so the examination has been postponed."
Xian Yuji said to Huo Sheng, "In that case, we've come a bit early. How about we go to my house and come back later?" The shopkeeper said, "The matter of fame and fortune is not something that can be turned back on. Just stay at my humble abode for a month or two; it won't be hard to pass." Xian Sheng said, "That makes sense. But living in these few rooms, facing people saying 'Confucius said,' it's not enough. It would be better to go to some interesting places and have some fun."
Huo Sheng laughed. Xianyu Ji said, "What's with the laughter, brother? Are you laughing at me for wanting to wander around so soon after arriving, so restless?" Huo Sheng replied, "I'm not laughing at you, brother. I have something on my mind." Xianyu Ji said, "I guessed it, brother." He then whispered in Huo Sheng's ear, "Is it this person?" Huo Sheng laughed loudly, "I can't hide it from you anymore. Innkeeper, tell me, is Hua Xingyun, the lady I met here years ago, doing well at home?" Innkeeper Yao replied, "I heard that since Yunniang parted from her husband, she has only wanted to be with him, and now she doesn't keep guests very much." Upon hearing this, Huo Sheng recited, "A gentle breeze and fine rain moisten the plum blossoms, I ride my horse past the house of Biyu." The story of Xianyu Ji and Huo Sheng waiting in the inn is left unsaid. Meanwhile,
An Lushan, now the military governor of Fanyang, is a man of unusual birth, who abuses the emperor's favor, hoards grain and supplies, and privately keeps iron cavalry. All the towns under his control and those he coerced, in principle, were treated with great respect by the court; and he himself, already extremely wealthy and powerful, should have known when to step back. But instead, he was restless and harbored delusions, saying, "But that old man Yang Guozhong, along with that Da Xi Xun gang, constantly slanders us in court, saying we are treacherous and must harbor rebellious intentions. Thinking it over carefully, we are on the border while they are inside; they can't possibly escape this dog-headed scheme. Therefore, I have mustered my troops and am heading straight for Chang'an. Look at the prefectures and counties we pass through; they crumble at the mere sight of us. Recently, I sent He Qiannian and Gao Yao, under the pretense of presenting a skilled archer, to kidnap Yang Guanghui, and then tricked and captured Taiyuan. We'll have to rest for a few days, and then we'll cross the river soon. That's all in the past. Today the weather is fine; soldiers, go and hunt on the sandy ground outside the tent."
Hearing this, the soldiers dared not delay, set up the hunting ground, and with shouts and cheers, they began to hunt rabbits on the grassy slope. Some released dogs, some used hawks, and some shot arrows; they went on a chaotic hunt, catching many game. A soldier stepped forward and said, "Your Majesty, may we rest for a while, allowing the troops and horses to rest briefly?" An Lushan replied, "Of course, of course."
Lushan sat on a felt mat, ordering female musicians to play music and serve wine. Beautiful women served wine, played the pipa, and sang and danced, their skirts fluttering, the music tinkling. After drinking heartily for a while, as night fell, he ordered the retreat.
It was truly a scene of chaos:
Clouds drift across the desert near Yuyang, the ancient battlefield of Chiyou;
swift cavalry return, saddles adorned with two rabbits, bows still drawn, shooting at yellow sheep.
Lushan's intention to invade Chang'an was temporarily halted; as for the story of the fleeing clouds, that will have to wait for the next chapter.
Chapter Three: Old Acquaintances, Scholars, and Reunion – A Poem Presented to a Courtesan in Springtime Beauty
The story goes that in Chang'an lived a courtesan named Hua, nicknamed Xingyun. She was elegant and beautiful, a natural beauty, truly a leader among courtesans. Although of low social standing, she was never frivolous, and often harbored thoughts of reforming her ways, but had not yet met a suitable man, so she dared not act rashly. Two years ago, she met Huo Xiufu, a talented scholar from Maoling, and they had a prior acquaintance. However, because it was their first meeting, she was hesitant to speak openly, also harboring a sense of unease about their shallow relationship. Fortunately, he was now taking the imperial examinations again, and since the examinations were still far off, he was staying in the capital. Xingyun took him in to live with her temporarily so he could study. He said, “Look at Huo Lang, so intelligent and talented, so sincere. I secretly wish to entrust my life to him. Today, the rain has just stopped, the flowers in the vase are fragrant, the windows are bright and the table is clean—it’s quite delightful . I can’t help but invite Huo Lang out for a chat. Mr. Huo, please come in!”
Upon hearing this, Huo Sheng turned and came out of the painted pavilion. He saw Xingyun and said, “I’m so grateful for your hospitality!” Xingyun said, “What are you saying, Huo Lang? But this humble alley and thatched cottage are probably not a place for someone like you who appreciates flowers.” Huo Sheng smiled and said, “I don’t care about any other flowers, but this one flower that understands me—even if I searched all over Qujiang, I wouldn’t find it anywhere.” Xingyun smiled. Huo Sheng glanced at the table and asked, "Yunniang, what kind of painting is this scroll on the table?" Xingyun replied, "I borrowed it from a neighbor's daughter; it's a scroll titled 'Zhaojun Mounting a Horse.'" Huo Sheng unfolded it and said, "Indeed, it's beautifully painted. Yunniang, I see that you are exceptionally beautiful, and you look exactly like Zhaojun in this painting, without any difference." Xingyun said, "You are not similar in any way, except that she was destined for a life of hardship, ending up in a brothel, just like her suffering when she left for the border!"
After saying this, she couldn't help but feel sad. Huo Sheng said, “Yunniang, don’t worry. I’ve always known a little about painting. Look, today the orioles are singing in the trees, and butterflies are flitting over the walls. The scenery is truly picturesque. I’ll paint you a picture of ‘Listening to the Orioles and Catching Butterflies,’ a very joyful scene, so you won’t be saddened by the sight of tears. What do you say?” Xingyun said, “I’ve long heard of Huo Lang’s exquisite painting skills, but I’m of humble birth and cannot possibly trouble you with your brush.” Huo Sheng said, “Of course.” He then spread the silk on the table, mixed the colors, and took the brush, saying, “Yunniang, let me examine you closely before I begin to paint.” He then looked at her from head to toe. As he painted, he looked at the painting and said, "Why is that little red mark on your cheek? It truly is a face as
beautiful as a peach blossom." Upon hearing this, Xingyun quickly took a mirror to look at herself, then looked at the painting and said, "It is indeed a perfect likeness." Huo Sheng said, "It only resembles your beautiful appearance, but as for that natural charm of smiling and frowning, of being both indifferent and affectionate, how could I possibly paint it?" He then compared the painting with the "Zhaojun Portrait" and laughed, saying, "Zhaojun, Zhaojun! I knew Yunniang would not allow it. How could I be like Mao Yanshou, deliberately adding a black mole to ruin your beautiful face?" Xingyun rose to thank him, but Huo Sheng stopped her. Xingyun said, "My intention is that Huo Lang also paint my own face on it, only then will it be interesting." Huo Sheng said, "That is fine. But I am a literary demon from the lower realm, how dare I be placed alongside a jade fairy, how could I not be terrified! Well then, while there is still some rosy cheeks left, I will not make a fool of myself!" So he picked up his brush, looked at his reflection in the pond, and then looked at himself in the mirror before putting pen to paper. Before long, the painting was finished. Xingyun examined it carefully and said, "So dashing and handsome, truly lifelike! But your literary talent is something even you yourself cannot describe. Huo Lang! Not only is your writing unparalleled, but your painting skills are also unmatched. Where in the world can you find such a talented man? Rare indeed!"
Just as the two were enjoying themselves, Xianyu Ji suddenly decided to visit Huo Sheng. He said, "I haven't been feeling well these past few days and haven't been able to visit Brother Huo. Today I must go and see him, to spend some time with him and offer my assistance. It's only now, during the entrance ceremony, that I've finally arrived. You see, after all the twists and turns, I've already reached the top of the brothel." He knocked on the door and went in, saying to Huo Sheng, "These past few days I've been a little unwell at my lodgings and haven't been able to visit you and Yunniang as often as I'd like. I'm so sorry." Huo Sheng said, "I've also been a little unwell, which is why I haven't been able to see Brother Xianyu." Xianyu Ji said, "I know about your illness, brother." He then whispered in his ear and laughed, "Is this..." "Like this?" Huo Sheng laughed, "Don't tease me." Xianyu Ji, seeing the painting on the table, asked, "Who painted this?" Huo Sheng replied, "To tell you the truth, I made it up."
Xianyu Ji examined it closely and laughed, "So it's you two, the old folks passing down their divine image to their descendants. How can it look so real? You even stick the painting on your face." Huo Sheng asked, "What do you mean by that?" Xianyu Ji said, "I've always avoided getting close to Yunniang, because I'm afraid you might get jealous. Today I'm taking advantage of her a little with the painting, please don't be offended! Please don't be offended!" Huo Sheng smiled. Xianyu Ji said, "Yunniang, I have something else to say to you. Such a fine painting must not be ruined by its mounting. That drunkard Miao, the gatekeeper of the Imperial Examination Hall, is extremely skilled. He promised the Ministry of Rites that someone should be sent to him for mounting." Xingyun said, "I will certainly obey your command." Xianyu Ji said, "Today, I'm going to have a few drinks. Yunniang, please make an exception and sing a very poignant song so that Brother Huo and I can all have some fun." Xingyun said, "Please come to the warm pavilion for a drink." Xianyu Ji added, "Brother Huo! From now on, you and Yunniang shouldn't call each other anything, just call us 'the painting.'" Huo Sheng said, "Don't tease me." The three drank until the night watchman's watch before returning home.
It was truly a scene of tales:
Clouds yearn for her garments, flowers for her face; a beautiful woman's painting leads the spring breeze.
The warbling oriole cleverly conceals her, the infatuated butterfly flits deep into the winding thicket.
This one painting alone has given rise to many events; let's hear the next chapter for the rest.
Chapter Four: Clerk Zang Explains the Abuses of the Examination Hall; The Drunken Old Woman
Causes a Scene. It is said that in Chang'an there was a clerk named Zang Butui. He said, "I am in charge of all the numbering and copying of examination papers. Every year, people come to bribe me, and I have to do one or two favors, so I have many patrons. Last year, a friend named Xianyu from Maoling asked me to do something for him, but the opportunity didn't come, so I couldn't help him. Who knew there would be such a kind person who doesn't ask for a penny? I wonder if he has arrived this year? If he has, I must go and see him; perhaps he will ask me for favors again." It was truly a case of:
sitting at home, money falling from the sky.
While old Zang was wondering, unexpectedly, Xianyu Ji came to visit. He said, "This is Old Zang's door. Let me knock." He asked, "Is anyone home?" Zang Butui opened the door and saw Xianyu Ji. He bowed and said, "I was just thinking of you, brother. I was ashamed of my past shortcomings, yet I have received such a generous gift. How can I possibly accept it?" Xianyu Ji said, "These are small things, no need to mention them. As the saying goes, 'If you have the heart to pay New Year's greetings, it's never too late, even on the Dragon Boat Festival.' This year, I must trouble you, brother, to devise a plan to ensure everything is done perfectly."
Zang Butui frowned and said, "I've got it. I think it's possible to act as a messenger, but it might not be a matter of chance. This year, the security is tight, and not a single word or detail can be leaked. There's only one plan: I've already compiled these numbers. I just need to carefully inquire with which friend in Chinese characters to write them." "If I find out his number perfectly, I'll secretly infiltrate the two companies and change their numbers, just like writing an essay for you, without leaving a trace. This is a foolproof plan. What do you think? What do you think?" Xianyu Ji said, "That's excellent." He then stepped forward to thank him, saying, "My family has accumulated a lot of money, hoping only to wear an official hat. If you can help me achieve fame and success, I will never forget your great kindness." He said, "I'm currently giving you five hundred taels of silver, and once you're on the list, I'll double the amount." Zang Bitui happily said, "Just one thing: after you succeed in the exam and become an official, you must allow me to take a few more bribes. Don't be like Zhang Zhi then, or everything will fall into place." Xianyu Ji said, "What are you talking about! Let's go to the tavern for a good drink and discuss it later." Let's leave aside their two schemes and cheating for now.
Now, let's talk about Miao Jiling, the mounter. He said, "Because I usually enjoy a few drinks, everyone calls me Miao the Drunkard. I'm also good at business and my sales are booming. Since I'm an official in the Ministry of Rites, I often have to go and deal with things. The other day, Lord Li of the Ministry of Rites sent me a painting of Guanyin by Wu Daozi, and some Mr. Huo personally delivered a painting of Spring Beauty. The workmanship is doubled, and he asked me to take good care of mounting it." After saying this, he looked at the wall and said, "Both of these are completely dry. Today the weather is fine, so I'll take them down and put the scrolls back on. I'm afraid they'll come and bother me, so quickly get the paste basin and brush!"
His wife heard this and came over and said, "Old man, the paste basin and brush are here." Miao Jiling said, "Mother, there are one or two important customers who need your help to finish their business so they won't come and bother you. Come here, come here!" So he took a stool, helped his wife, and took the paintings down. He said, "This is a painting called 'Springtime Beauty' sent by Minister Huo," and then lifted up the image of Guanyin, saying, "It belongs to the Li family. Let me sprinkle some cloud incense powder inside; this is to ward off the bookworms."
The old woman brought wine and meat, saying, "Old man, I know your name. After you finish your work, you'll need a few cups of strong liquor." Miao Jiling happily replied, "That's perfect. You've worked so hard; you should have a few drinks to loosen your muscles." The old woman poured the wine, urged her husband to drink, and stuffed several slices of meat into his mouth, saying, "It's roasted mutton; eat a few more pieces." They drank and drank, and before they knew it, they were drunk. He said, "I'm drunk; let's go to sleep." Miao Jiling retorted, "How can I go to sleep in broad daylight?"
Just as the old woman was arguing with the drunkard, a servant from the Ministry of Rites came and said, "This is Miao the Drunkard's shop. Is anyone inside?" Miao Jiling asked in surprise, "Who is it?" The servant replied, "I'm from the Ministry of Rites; I'm here to appoint you as an official." Miao Jiling opened the door, still drunk. The servants said, "We've come for no other reason than to collect the paperwork for the imperial examinations this year. The magistrate wants you to collect the wages and allowance so everyone can get to work quickly." Miao Jiling said, "What a headache! What bad luck! I haven't even finished a few business deals this spring, and now I'm being asked to become an official." The servants said, "No way. You're the head of the trade, why are you pretending to be stupid?" They then dragged him away.
Miao the Drunkard said to his wife, "I'll go to the yamen and come back as soon as I've seen the officials. There are two paintings on this table, one is a Guanyin painting by Lord Li of the main hall, and the other is a Spring Scene painting brought by Lord Huo of Maoling. If he comes to ask for them, I'll give them to him." Miao's wife said, "Go, go, I know! Can't you even handle a few things?" She watched as her husband left with the servants. Granny Miao said, "How boring! I was just enjoying my meal and wanted to chat with the old man, but now you want me to be some kind of official? Your mother's official! Your grandmother's official! There's still half a pot left here, so I might as well finish it all off." Then she started drinking from the pot, swallowing loudly. Suddenly, she heard someone knocking at the door. Thinking it was her husband, she opened it, hugged him tightly, and cried out, "My dearest old man! You've come at the perfect time! I'm getting drunk, let's go to sleep, stop pretending!"
The woman spat and said, "This old woman's gone mad! Open your eyes and see who your husband is! I'm here to pick up the painting from Master Li's office. Where's your husband? I sent him the Guanyin image to be framed a long time ago. Miss wants to worship it and is urging me to bring it to her!" Old Woman Miao pointed to the table and said, "The painting is right here, isn't it? Even if you're not my husband, let's have a couple of drinks and have some fun, what's wrong with that?" The woman said, "What are you talking about! A woman, drunk like this." She picked up the painting and left.
Granny Miao got up, still looking outside, and said, "Bah! So this is how clueless people are, enjoying such hot wine." She then turned her head and took a few steps, saying, "Am I, with my good looks, some kind of scoundrel? What bad luck, what bad luck!" Looking at the table, she said, "So the painting was taken. Why did they take the one without the bag? This one with the bag is left here; it must belong to the Huo family. Let's take it inside and wait for them to come and claim it." Indeed
:
The old woman, shrewd as ever, still has her charm in her old age.
If not for a mistake involving a painting, how could they have formed a union in two places?
The courtyard has taken the painting; since it was a mistake, will it be returned? To be continued...
Chapter Five: A Mistaken Painting Brought, a Startling Expression Like a Gift of Poems Departed
, Let the Swallows Carry It. It is said that Miss Feiyun remembered the Guanyin image and called to Meixiang, "The Guanyin image that Master gave me to worship the other day, the courtyard servant hasn't brought it in for a long time. Perhaps it hasn't been mounted yet? Could you urge him to do so? The Buddha's Birthday is approaching, and I want to hang it in the small pavilion for daily worship." Meixiang replied, "I know. Where is the old courtyard servant?" The old courtyard servant came over, and Meixiang said, "Miss asked me to ask you, yesterday Master instructed you to mount the Guanyin image, is it finished? It's to be worshipped soon!" The courtyard servant said, "It's already mounted and is here. I was just about to hand it to Miss, please take it in." Meixiang took it and said, "I know." She then told Miss that the painting had been brought. The young lady said, "Meixiang, this painting is no ordinary one; it is a manifestation of the Bodhisattva, and must be treated with reverence. You may light incense, and I will first unfurl and pay my respects before offering it."
Meixiang unfurled the painting, and the young lady exclaimed in surprise, "How strange! It's not a Guanyin image, but a painting of a young woman in springtime, which was carelessly taken." Meixiang pointed to the painting and said, "Miss, look at the woman chasing butterflies with that young lady; how beautifully she is depicted!" The young lady said, "How shameful! How can a young woman be with that scholar..." "How can you act like this, playing around?" Meixiang said. "This painting, 'Spring Beauty,' is no less beautiful than 'Water Moon Guanyin.'" Then she turned her back and said, "How come the girl in the painting looks exactly like you, Miss?" Then she turned to her Miss and said, "The girl in this painting is exactly the same as you. Why is that?" Miss looked carefully again and said, "I'm afraid it was just a casual drawing. It's just a coincidence, not necessarily done with care." Meixiang said, "Look at the yellow and kingfisher feathers, everything is similar. How could it be something that was casually painted by Pang'er of Caoqiao?" Miss examined it again and said, "Oh! There's even a signature on it. Let me see. 'Painted by Huo Duliang of Maoling, presented to Yunniang for her dressing.'"
Meixiang said, "That's strange. How can she also be called Yunniang? Miss, look at her delicate eyebrows, her slanted fingers, her rosy cheeks, like a peach blossom standing on the moss; her lotus steps are light and steady, showing off her charm. She's already quite lovely. And the butterflies that seek flowers, and the pair of orioles singing among the willows, make the scene even more interesting." "Miss said, 'Looking at the scene in the painting, could it be Liu Ruan leading people astray on Tiantai Mountain, or perhaps Sima Xiangru casually accompanying Wenjun? It's truly impossible to guess. Meixiang, I was going to send the painting to the courtyard to exchange for it, but the painting is a bit strange. Let me take a closer look.' Meixiang said, 'No need to exchange it, Miss, keep it and consider it as your own springtime beauty.' Miss said, 'But there's an extra person in it; I'm afraid it won't be appropriate for my parents to see it.' Meixiang laughed again, 'If Master and Madam see it, there really is an extra person; but if Miss sees it herself, I'm afraid it's just right!' Miss shouted, 'Stop talking!' Then she went back to her boudoir. It is truly: '
How can one's heart be like this, her soul should be among a hundred flowers.'
Now, after seeing the painting, Miss Feiyun unknowingly became somewhat melancholy. One day, in front of the Xubu Pavilion, she heard the spring breeze blowing, scattering the flowers. Suddenly she looked up and exclaimed, 'Ah!'" "How can these two butterflies fly so skillfully, fluttering around my clothes? Why? Look, they've flown off to the flowering tree to peek at the blossoms, and now they're swirling around my skirt again. Just as they're about to leave, they fly back. Look, they're on the table now, let me catch them." She tried to catch them, but couldn't.
Feeling sleepy, she lay down on the table and fell asleep. Meixiang came over and said, "Oh! Miss, you've just finished washing up, why are you sleeping by the dressing table? Let me gently wake you up so you can do some needlework." She coughed, and Miss woke up. She asked, "Meixiang, what's that noise from under the eaves?" Meixiang said, "It's the iron horse-drawn carriage turning without wind, but it's being snagged by the wings of a little bird pecking at flowers." Miss said, "I haven't been feeling well these past few days. Just now, I had a hazy dream, like I was swatting at those pink butterflies under the flowering tree, and a tea thorn got caught on my embroidered skirt. It flickered for a moment, and then I woke up." Meixiang said, "Yes, yes! The other day I made a mistake with that painting 'Springtime Beauty,' which had so many scenes on it. Miss saw it and thought about it, hence this dream. I wonder if you were with the woman in red in your dream?" Miss said, "Don't talk nonsense! Bring me the painting, let me take a closer look."
Meixiang didn't dare to delay and brought the painting. Miss examined it for a while and said, "If it was just a casual stroke, how could it look like this? Meixiang, bring me the mirror." As she looked at the painting, she looked in the mirror and couldn't help but laugh. She said, "The woman in the painting really looks like me, except for the red mark on her cheek." Meixiang said, "Miss, look at the oriole and the pair of pink butterflies, how can they be painted so vividly? Miss, are the two people in this painting a married couple, or are they in a brothel, buying pleasure and chasing after laughter? If they are from a respectable family, they shouldn't be dressed so coyly; if they just met, they shouldn't be so familiar with each other." "Look at this young man in red, with his black gauze hat and red apricot-colored shirt, so handsome! I've often heard of Pan Anren, who could throw fruit and ride in a fragrant carriage; I doubt he'd let him have it." The young lady said, "Since the signature is Huo Duliang, and the handwriting is still fresh, this person must be here. I look closely at this painting; it's half real, half fake, intentional, and unintentional, truly perplexing. Fortunately, there are writing implements on the table, so I might as well write a poem to express my melancholy." She then took a small piece of floral stationery, picked up her brush, hesitated for a moment, and wrote: "
The wind blows, the rain passes, the flowers wither, the spring dream in the boudoir is cold.
I rise, powerless, and lean on the railing, gazing at the painting.
Green sleeves flutter, accompanied by red robes, the orioles are charming, and the butterflies are innocent.
When will we meet again at Wushan? Li'er is like a painting.
" — Inscribed by Feiyun in the right-hand style of "Drunken Peach Blossom Spring".
The young lady said, "This poem of mine is worth more than this painting." She then put down her brush. Just then, Meixiang exclaimed, "How strange! Why are these swallows on the beam flying back and forth in front of the dressing table, unlike before? Let me swat them down. Look, the swallow's mud has stained the makeup box. Oh! How did they take away the poem you wrote? Swallow, come back! Come back! Give me back my young lady's poem!" The young lady laughed, "Silly girl, how can swallows understand human speech? Let it be." Meixiang said, "Alright, I'll pack up my brush and inkstone and go inside first. You can rest in the pavilion, young lady." She sent Meixiang inside. The young lady said, "Alas! With this girl here, I couldn't speak my mind." She smiled and said again, "Indeed, the girl in the red dress in the painting is quite lovely. I just wrote a poem, and the swallow carried it away. It's just like the story of the red leaves in the imperial moat—it's all for the best."
Indeed:
The swallows do not return, the flowers are wet with rain, the spring breeze should lament the dusk.
Where has the letter carried by the swallow landed? To be continued in the next chapter.
Chapter Six: Huo Xiufu Picks Up a Letter at Qujiang, Jia Nanzhong Settles in at Hulao Pass
. It is said that Huo Xiufu was staying at Xingyun's house, waiting for the examination. He said, "The other day I painted a small portrait of Yunniang, which I was very pleased with. However, when I took it to be framed, a framer mistakenly sent it elsewhere, and instead gave me a painting of Guanyin in ink and wash, which is a genuine work by Wu Daozi. Alas! Although my handwriting is not as good as Wu Daozi's, Yunniang's appearance is probably comparable to the South Sea Moon. This matter is laughable; where am I supposed to find her? I can only let it be. However, the examination is still far off, and the journey is tedious, so I secretly went to the Qujiang embankment for a stroll. Look at the willow branches like gold, the peach blossoms like fire, the east wind blowing, and the fallen petals covering the ground—truly a spring scene. I have no heart to appreciate it, but I cannot suppress my thoughts. Thinking of that painting from the other day, which depicted Yunniang so realistically..." Others might mistakenly take it, but there's no one as beautiful as this woman to borrow; even if one did, it would be in vain. It's just that I mistakenly chose another painting, specifically a "Guanyin" painting. Now it hangs in my small pavilion, where I burn incense and change the water—it's quite amusing. We've arrived at Qujiang. The newly cleared scenery is truly captivating! Look at these swallows flying so curiously, hovering right above my head, as if they recognize me! Look at them, flitting about in the wind, why did a tuft of red feather fall? Let me see what it is.”
He picked it up and examined it, exclaiming in surprise, “It's not a feather, it's a piece of paper the size of a red leaf, with many tiny characters written on it. Let me see.” He then recited the poem "Drunken Peach Blossom Spring." Looking closely at the poem, it seemed to be inspired by the painting "Spring Beauty"—the tone and brushstrokes were so delicate, clearly the work of a young woman. "Alas! I just said there might not be anyone like Xingyun in the world, but who knew there would be one here. That last line, 'Like a painting of Li'er,' is practically a confession. Huo Duliang, Huo Duliang, you're so difficult to amuse yourself with! Wait a moment, Xingyun was still wondering about missing Chunrong yesterday, so I must hurry back and tell him the painting has been found, so he won't be troubled." He circled the doorway: "Open the door! Open the door!"
Xingyun opened the door and asked, "Huo Lang, where did you go this morning?" Huo Sheng replied, "Yunniang, I took a walk along the Qujiang embankment this morning." Xingyun asked, "What was the scenery like at Qujiang?" Huo Sheng said, "The scenery there was beautiful. Suddenly, I saw a swallow carrying a piece of flowered paper, falling from the sky. When I picked it up, there was a poem on it. Look at the poem, it clearly says, 'I mistakenly accepted your painting, Chunrong.'" "And the title. Don't be upset, I'll inquire later and return it to you. But what's it called, Flying Cloud?" Xingyun said, "Huo Lang, the painting you gave me, 'Spring Scenery,' I didn't have the fortune to see it. The swallow brought the poem, there must be a strange connection. Keep it safe, and inquire about its whereabouts after the exam."
While the two were talking, Bao'er came and said, "Master Huo, Master Xianyu just sent a letter saying that the Ministry of Rites issued a notice today, and we need to enter the exam tomorrow morning. Please go early at dawn." Huo Sheng replied, "I know." He said to Xingyun, "Why did the exam start so suddenly? I caught a chill and feel a little unwell. I'll rest in the small pavilion. Please have Yunniang take care of my writing materials." Xingyun said, "I know everything you need, I'll take care of it. Don't worry about it." She prepared Huo Sheng for the exam, but that's another story.
Now, the military governor of Tianxiong was named Jia Nanzhong, who was the one who had previously presented the ink painting of Guanyin to Minister Li. Originally from Xingzhou, he distinguished himself on the border. Due to some disturbances in the Yuyang area, he said, “I am deeply grateful for the Emperor’s favor, appointed as a military commander to govern Tianxiong. My loyalty is as steadfast as a bushel, and I have always longed to repay the Emperor. However, this scoundrel An Lushan is mediocre, yet he has unjustly sought the Emperor’s favor. I have heard that he has raised an army in Fanyang and has captured many prefectures and counties. I have no choice but to prepare my troops and horses to go to the capital to defend the Emperor. I think: Tongguan is firmly guarded by the old General Geshu; I only fear that An Lushan will launch a surprise attack on Shangnan via the Hulao Pass, which will inevitably shake Chang’an. Soldiers! You must establish your camp at the Hulao Pass and not allow a single soldier from Fanyang to cross it. When the signal fires are lit, be alert and check carefully. Make sure the bells and weapons are in perfect order. If enemy cavalry charges, you must bravely intercept and kill them. Anyone who retreats will be punished according to military law.” The soldiers all agreed, “Understood!” Commander Jia ordered the camp to be set up, and the troops advanced in unison, not daring to make any mistakes.
Along the way, Jia Jiedu was filled with resentment, saying, "Lushan, Lushan! You rat! The court has treated you well, yet you dare to act recklessly, waging war and causing such suffering to those people. How hateful! How hateful! Hulao Pass is just ahead; rush up and set up camp." The soldiers responded, "Yes, sir!" In no time, squads upon squads, layer upon layer, surrounded Hulao Pass like an iron barrel. An order was also issued that no bandit slaves were to be allowed to pass.
It was truly a case of:
General Baima frequently defeating the enemy, how could the barbarian cavalry be allowed to cross Hulao Pass?
What happened next? Let's find out in the next chapter.
Chapter Seven: The Secret is Leaked, Mei Xiang's Ugly Demeanor Transformed into a Clerk's Words.
It is said that Minister Li and Madam Bao suddenly noticed that Miss Feiyun was listless, only wanting to sleep, and looking thin and haggard, which greatly worried them. They summoned a servant and instructed, "Miss is unwell; quickly fetch a doctor to take a look." The servant replied, "Master is not in the yamen; it is inconvenient to summon a doctor." "There's a female doctor on this street named Mama Meng. Everyone says her medicine is miraculous. Why don't we ask her to come and see you?" the lady said. "Then go and fetch her quickly." The servant, hearing this, dared not delay. He went to the Meng family's gate and asked, "Is anyone home?"
The female doctor, a hunchback, came over and asked, "Who is this?" The servant said, "I'm from Master Li's residence. I've asked you to see a patient." Mama Meng said, "Then let's go together." Before long, they entered the yamen and saw the lady. The servant said, "This old woman kowtows." The lady said, "Please rise. Female doctor, I only have one daughter. She's been a little unwell these past few days. I would be grateful if you could examine her and cure her." Mama Meng said, "Madam, gynecology is my specialty. I will certainly do my best." The lady said, "Meixiang, you can take her in." The lady then followed and asked, "Girl, are you feeling better today?" The young lady said, "Not really. I have no other symptoms, but I just can't muster any energy." "Meng Ma stepped forward and said, 'Miss, please forgive my formalities! Let me check your pulse so I can prescribe the medicine.'
After taking your pulse for a while, she said, 'Miss, you are weak and afraid of the wind. You get feverish in the afternoon. You have palpitations.' The young lady said, 'You are right about the illness.' Meng Ma said, 'I have been treating patients since I was seventeen or eighteen years old. I have never misdiagnosed an illness. This illness is easy to treat. I will prepare one dose of medicine, and you will be fine.' Mei Xiang asked, 'What are the ingredients for this medicine? I will go and decoct it.' Meng Ma said, 'Three slices of ginger and two dates. Decocted until eight-tenths of the original volume, please have the old lady personally prepare the prescription.' The old lady said, 'In that case, please sit for a while. I will wait until it is prepared, and then I will trouble you to personally deliver the prescription to the young lady.' Meng Ma said, 'That is fine.' The old lady then stepped forward."
Madam Meng pulled Meixiang aside and said, "Meixiang, let me ask you, I see that Miss's pulse is heavy with melancholy, like a spring fever. Tell me the truth, how did this happen?" Meixiang replied, "To tell you the truth, Madam, Miss is usually very serious and doesn't have a single careless thought. It's just that the other day, when she was mounting a scroll of Guanyin to offer as a sacrifice, the mounting shop mistakenly sent her a painting." Madam Meng asked, "Are you upset about the mistake?" Meixiang said, "Not at all, it's quite amusing." Madam Meng asked, "How so?" Meixiang said, "Who knew that the mistaken painting was a spring scene painting? The woman in the painting looks exactly like my Miss. Beside her, there's a handsome young man, very dashing. When my Miss saw it, it seemed like she was thinking about that man. She even wrote a poem about it on a piece of paper, which is quite strange." Madam Meng asked, "How is it strange?" Meixiang said, "I just finished writing when a swallow flew down from the beam and snatched it away. Since then, Miss has been listless and dispirited." Meng Ma said, "Sister Meixiang, you're talking nonsense. You can't fool your old mother. Who ever suffers from lovesickness when they don't see each other? I don't believe it." Meixiang said, "I wouldn't believe the truth if I told you. Look, Miss is fast asleep. I'll secretly take the painting and show it to you, and you'll see clearly." Meng Ma said, "Go ahead and bring it here!"
Meixiang brought it. Meng Ma unfolded it and exclaimed in surprise, "So it really is true! But I think I recognize this girl, though I can't quite place her." She then secretly looked at Miss and said, "She really looks just like Miss." Meixiang said, "Mama, I can't read. Miss said there's the painter's name on it." Meng Ma said, "I can roughly recognize a few characters from writing prescriptions. Let me see." "Then she looked and read aloud: 'Written by Huo Duliang of Maoling as a gift to Yunniang. It truly has a name. This matter is truly strange, which is why she has these wild thoughts, causing this spring fever. But this longing from not seeing each other is ultimately easier to bear and not difficult to cure. You should put the painting away; it might be inconvenient if the old lady sees it.'
Just then, the lady brought the medicine with a servant, ordered the young lady to take it, and instructed Meixiang: 'It would be good for the young lady to sleep.' Suddenly, it was announced that the master had returned to the yamen. The lady greeted him, saying, 'My husband is back.' Minister Li asked, 'Madam, is the girl feeling better?' The lady replied, 'I just had this female doctor come to see her, and she said it's nothing serious. She slept after taking the medicine.' Meng Ma stepped forward and kowtowed. The minister said, 'Thank you for your trouble. Is the young lady's illness serious?' Meng Ma said, 'The young lady's illness is a slight cold, and she's also a little depressed. Just one or two doses of medicine will make her feel better.'" The Minister said, “That would be good. Madam, our daughter is still ill, and I am ordered to attend the imperial examinations today, so I must enter immediately. You can give the female doctor a tael of silver; if she needs medicine later, just send someone to fetch it. To avoid the security checkpoint, you cannot come in. When our daughter is better, I will thank you profusely after I finish my performance.” Meng Ma agreed, bowed in thanks, and left.
The servant came to report that the patrol officers were all waiting in the outer room. Minister Li said, “I am about to enter the examination hall; please go inside, Madam.” Then he went to the outer courtyard and called the patrol officers over: “I have a security notice; please have it engraved and printed immediately, and post it everywhere without delay.” The patrol officers responded and left. The servants reported, “Please, sir, depart.” The servant said, “See sir off.” The Minister instructed the servant, “You are experienced and mature; everything in the yamen must be kept strictly confidential. Go inside.” The servant said, “Understood.” "The servants rushed off.
Meanwhile, the examiner had arrived at the examination hall early and instructed the patrol officers to signal the gate to open. He ordered the candidates to be thoroughly searched, to enter in single file, and to be assigned to their assigned cells by name, without skipping any. The patrol officers obeyed. Just then, the gate was sounded with a gong. Upon entering, the patrol officers lined up on both sides. The scholars, some old, some young, answered their names one by one. The patrol officer shouted, 'Search carefully!' The officers replied in unison, 'No fault found.' Some went to the east cell, some to the west, leaving one without a cell. The patrol officer said, 'What if the room is full? Very well, let him sit here. Reporting to the sir, the roll call and search are complete; please seal the gate.' The gate was then sealed. The examiner said, 'It is gratifying that this year's examination is conducted with strict discipline and without any faults. The weather is also pleasant; this is a cause for celebration. We have risen early today; let us go in and rest a bit, and we can open the gate tomorrow.'" "
The following evening, a crowd of people, each carrying a tall lantern, came to welcome the candidates. They said, 'Guys, the rules are strict this year. Don't crowd near the fence. Stand at a distance and wait for your respective candidates to come out before going to greet them.' Just then, a bailiff carrying a clapper came over and said, 'The rules are very strict this year. You are not allowed to approach the fence. But when a candidate comes out,
let him out clearly. Anyone who tries to push will be beaten.' Three clappers were struck inside, and a shout came to open the gate. The patrol officer outside said, 'Make preparations inside, the first candidate is coming out.' The bailiff said, 'Everyone, stand back a bit so the candidates can walk.' The crowd looked inside and saw an old candidate being carried away. Then a man with a crew cut came to greet Huo Sheng. Seeing Huo Sheng come out, he said, 'Sir, you must be very successful.'" He hurriedly took the pen and inkstone and followed. Then, a shopkeeper named Yao said, "Master Xianyu went into the examination hall, but the sun is already high in the sky. I've had breakfast at home, and he still hasn't come out. I was worried, so I went to check the examination hall to see what was going on. This is the gate of the examination hall, and it's still sealed off." He heard the bailiffs shouting, "What a waste! What a waste! These gentlemen, I don't know if they're truly skilled, but they're really fighting hard inside; or maybe the ink has dried up, and they can't squeeze out a single drop. Damn it! We have to work so hard serving them here. They're habitual gamblers and whores, what a disgrace!" Shopkeeper Yao said, "Sigh! Listening to these people's complaints, it's as if they know Master Xianyu's usual behavior."
Suddenly, there was a shout from inside the courtyard for grabbing the examination papers, and the gate was opened by striking the gong. The bailiffs said, "Thank heavens! It's done, he's out!" The shopkeepers saw Master Xianyu come out and greeted him, saying, "I'm here to receive you." Xianyu Ji said, "It's so tiring." The bailiff stepped forward and said, "I ask you, if you're working so hard, why don't you just stay home and relax? You might as well stay away from this world. We've suffered all this time because of you. Looking at your face, you don't seem like someone who's made it big." Xianyu Ji retorted, "I won't dare to do that again. If I do, well, well..." He turned and went home with the shopkeeper.
On the way, he said, "Speaking of which, the writing inside was so meticulously done, it must have been so intense that my teeth suddenly started hurting. Oh dear, I felt like I was going to die, so I had to slowly copy it down, which is why I'm out here now. No wonder these dogs are talking." He then went into the shop, and the owner, Yao, said, "Sir, please have some food and rest. I also need to go and rest." Xianyu Ji said, "Thank you for your trouble! Please make yourself at home." The shopkeeper took his leave.
Xianyu Ji turned back and laughed, "Xianyu Ji, Xianyu Ji! I ask you: What do you mean by this?" "Living in this world, I've endured so much hardship and toil, taking three years to finally take the exam. But once inside, I couldn't write a single word, and instead, I was humiliated by those scoundrels. It wasn't a performance; it was torture. Let's sit down and eat this food and drink. It's my first time taking the imperial examinations."
After finishing, he continued, "Thinking back to when I was writing in the exam hall, my heart was pounding. I don't know what I wrote—a bunch of 'drinking tales,' just scribbles like ghosts. To pass, unless I'm surrounded by officials like magpies flying overhead, and I crash into them, otherwise, I'll remain a worthless shell for life. Now, I'm sure I'll have to go discuss some methods with Old Zang. I'll go see Huo Xiufu first and ask him what his name is." "
It is indeed so:
Let us steal the brocade pouch of the Heavenly Weaver Girl from the road beside the Milky Way.
As for how the name was changed, let us hear the next chapter for the explanation.
Chapter 8: Changing Seat Numbers to Test the Waters and Explaining the Reasons for Treating Illness .
After Huo Sheng appeared, he was very pleased with his writing and said to Yun Niang, "My writing is excellent, and I have not disappointed you. However, I am not feeling well." He then took out the writing from his sleeve and said, "I shouldn't have copied the writing by the window this morning. Now, my head is even more dizzy, and my heart is very agitated. I'm afraid that I am not fortunate enough to be worthy of the title of scholar." Xing Yun said, "What are you saying! Your body is thin and you have been working hard, so you are a little impatient. I remember that I was ill in the past and consulted a female doctor named Meng. Her medicine was very effective. I have already sent someone to invite her. When she comes to see me, I will be fine after taking a dose or two of medicine. You can rest assured." Just then, Xianyu Ji suddenly entered. Huo Sheng awkwardly bowed, and Xianyu Ji said, "Brother Huo, why are you in such a state?" Huo Sheng replied, "I've been slightly unwell and unable to greet you. Please forgive me!" Xianyu Ji said, "You must have been working too hard in the arena." Xingyun said, "That's exactly right."
Xianyu Ji moved his chair closer and said, "Good things are coming soon, so you must take good care of yourself and not treat this lightly. You'll be in high spirits in the arena, no need to say more." Huo Sheng said, "Under the eaves, I hastily finished this piece, writing this nonsense here." Xianyu Ji took it and hummed it silently, but didn't utter a single word. Kua Jiang said, "Seven such exquisite essays, you're sure to pass with flying colors. How can you say they're hasty? Is there such a thing as hasty writing? How can you have so many good things in your belly? You should be sick from bloating." Huo Sheng asked, "Brother, you must be very proud of yourself. If you write something, I'd like to ask for your advice."
Xianyu Ji laughed and said, "I can't hide anything from you, brother. I'll just have a meal or two at the examination hall, and when I get home, I'll go and fool the villagers, saying that Master Xianyu has attended the examination again. The writing is just a few random lines; how could I remember them? You're just teasing me! There's another thing: the rules for this year's examination are different from previous years. Everyone has to identify the number on their paper. When the results are announced, only the number is written, not the name." After presenting the document and verifying its accuracy, only then were names written down and the list of successful candidates announced. Huo Sheng said, "I remember this." Xianyu Ji said, "My name is 'Ze'." Huo Sheng said, "My name is 'Ri'." Xianyu Ji said, "Do you remember it clearly?" Huo Sheng said, "How could I not remember my own name?" Xianyu Ji laughed and said, "Yunniang, don't blame me for saying this, but whenever you encounter someone with the name 'Ri,' hug them and say, 'This is my Huo husband, my Huo husband.'" Yun said, "Xian husband, don't blame me for saying this, but you really are a 'thief's' husband." Huo Sheng stopped her, saying, "Don't make fun of me."
Suddenly, Bao'er led in a hunchbacked old woman who was a doctor. Xianyu Ji said, "Where did this old woman come from?" Yun said, "She is a woman..." "Sir, I invited you to examine Huo Lang." Meng Ma greeted him, then turned her back and said, "I mentioned that the painting in the Li residence the other day resembled a person, but I couldn't quite place it then. It turns out it looks just like Hua Yunniang, the woman who consulted me years ago."
Xingyun asked Huo Lang to raise his head: "I'm honored to have a female physician here so I can examine his pulse." Meng Ma looked closely, then turned back and said, "How strange! This gentleman's face is somewhat familiar, but I couldn't quite place it. Oh, it also resembles the scholar in the red robe in the painting I saw in the Li residence. I understand now." She then pulled Xingyun aside and asked, "I just heard this gentleman's surname is Huo. Is his name Huo Duliang?" Xingyun replied, "Indeed, it is." Meng Ma asked, "Do you know how many strokes a painting can produce?" "What?" Xingyun said, "It's painted exceptionally well. Mother, how do you know his name and his skill in painting?" Meng Ma said, "Don't worry about it, there's something to say." Then she turned her back and said, "What a coincidence, it just so happens to be him! Don't say anything yet, let me take his pulse and then I'll say something to startle him and see how he reacts."
So she took his pulse and said, "Ah! Why is he so thin and haggard? Since he's been living in a brothel, how could that other woman have been spying on him?" Xingyun said, "Mother, I only asked you to treat me, why are you talking about these things?" Meng Ma said, "It's not idle talk, the root of the illness is here. There's another thing, you shouldn't have used the painted silk, even the most miraculous medicine can't cure this illness. If you want to get better, you'll have to break through..." "It would be best if we could become a loving couple."
Upon hearing this, Xianyu Ji angrily said, "This old woman, Master Huo invited you to treat his illness, but instead of explaining the symptoms, you spout nonsense. How despicable, how despicable!" Meng Ma said, "It's not nonsense, it's the scroll painting 'Spring Beauty'." Xianyu Ji said, "Still this nonsense." Meng Ma said, "It's not nonsense, it's a poem." Xianyu Ji said, "Where did you hear this from?" Meng Ma said, "I've heard of it, I've heard
of it, and now I've troubled that swallow." Huo Sheng was surprised and asked Xingyun quietly, "This old woman seems to know the whereabouts of the painting. You should ask her." Xingyun said, "Old woman, what you just said seems to have some origin. Please explain it clearly." Meng Ma said, "To tell you the truth, the other day I was invited by the Li family to examine Miss's illness. Her symptoms seemed to be those of spring fever. I questioned Meixiang carefully, and she said, 'The other day, because I was making offerings to the Guanyin scroll, I mistakenly received a painting of a woman in spring. The woman in that painting looks just like her.'"
Huo Sheng and Xingyun exclaimed in surprise, "So that's how it is!" Meng Ma continued, "The painting depicts a handsome young man in red. Miss saw him and missed him terribly, which is why she fell ill. I didn't believe it at the time, but Meixiang secretly brought the painting to me." Huo Sheng asked, "Mother, what does the painting look like?" Meng Ma replied, "The woman in the painting who resembles Miss is none other than Yunniang; the woman in red..." "Just like you, sir." Huo Sheng laughed, "There are many people in the world who look alike, how could I be the only one?" Meng Ma also laughed, "Sir, are you still trying to hide it from me? There's a signature on it, I remember it's 'Written by Huo Duliang of Maoling, presented to Yunniang for her dressing.' Isn't that right? Or is it just nonsense?" Xianyu Ji said, "I know that you gave your painting 'Spring Beauty' to Miao the Drunkard to frame, but I didn't know about these things later." Huo Sheng said, "Who knew that old Miao was a drunkard, he must have been drunk and sent it to the wrong place. Now, hearing what Meng Ma said, it's clear that it was mistakenly sent to the Li family."
Xian Sheng asked Meng Ma, "Is the person in the Li family the one who is in charge of the imperial examinations this year?" Meng Ma said, "That's right." Huo Sheng said, "'Spring Beauty' was originally written for Yunniang." Who knew that Miss Li looked exactly like Yunniang? Now she mistook her for herself and was confused. No wonder when I was strolling along Qujiang, I saw a swallow carrying a letter, the handwriting and tone of which sounded like a young woman's. Now, after Aunt Meng explained, I know it was Miss Li who wrote it. Aunt Meng said, "Meixiang also mentioned this matter. When you pass the imperial examination, I will act as your matchmaker." Xingyun said, "I dare not trouble myself with matchmaking. Please tell Miss Li gently that I will return 'Spring Beauty' to her. I would be very grateful." Aunt Meng said, "If you want it back, how can she believe it without proof?"
Xingyun thought for a moment and said, "I've got it. Take the letter to Miss Li and have her verify it. Then she will believe it. Return 'Spring Beauty' to her and send 'Guanyin' to her. How about that?" So he asked Huo Sheng for the letter. Xian Sheng took the letter and read aloud, "Is this Miss Li's own handwriting?" Meng Ma replied, "Yes." Xing Yun took the letter and handed it to Meng Ma, along with a phoenix hairpin, saying, "This is for you, Mama. If you return the painting, I'll thank you even more." Meng Ma was pleased and said, "Thank you! Thank you! I can't enter the mansion yet. Master Li said before I entered, 'The security is tight; I've instructed you not to move around.' I'll see Miss Li after I leave; perhaps she'll send it."
Hearing this, Huo Sheng felt much better; his illness had almost completely disappeared. He sent Meng Ma back. Xian Yu Ji said, "So that's what happened. Brother Huo, take good care of yourself. I need to go to my place to pack my things. If things get tough after the results are released, I'll be like that hunchbacked woman, bend over, carry my bag, and run away!" Huo Sheng said, "Don't tease me. I won't see you off."
Xian Yu Ji took his leave. What will happen next? Let's find out in the next chapter.
Chapter Nine: Without compromise, nothing can be accomplished; the official's dance reveals his treacherous schemes, easily frightening his friend.
It is said that after Xianyu Ji took his leave of Huo Sheng, he said on the way, "Just now I heard that old woman with the camel's head say many things, all about the tricks she's playing with 'Spring Beauty,' but let her be. It's good that she asked about his pen name in detail. Although I don't understand the subtleties of his writing, seeing his triumphant state despite his illness, his writing must be excellent. I must go find Old Zang to handle that matter. This is his door: Open the door! Open the door!" Zang Butui, hearing this, opened the door and said, "So it's Brother Xianyu, please come in and talk." The two entered the hall and sat down. Zang Bitui asked, "Did you do well in yesterday's examination?" Xiansheng laughed and said, "If I had, I wouldn't have come to see you. Fortunately, I asked a friend about his pen name." Zang Bitui asked, "What pen name?" Xiansheng said, "My friend's pen name is 'Ri' (日), and mine is 'Ze' (昃). I've come to trouble you so we can switch pen names as soon as possible, lest it be too late."
Upon hearing this, Zang Bitui thought carefully and said, "That way, we don't even need to cut the paper. We can just remove the bottom half of your pen name and add a few strokes to the bottom half of your friend's pen name. Wouldn't that be a perfect match?" Xiansheng said, "That makes sense! That makes sense! Well thought." Zang Bitui said, "There's only one condition: the essay must be exceptionally good." "It's a sure thing," Xian Sheng said. "The writing is beyond question." Zang Butui said, "Wait! Where is your esteemed friend from?" Xian Sheng said, "He's my classmate, Huo Duliang from Maoling." Zang Butui said, "Luckily you asked clearly, otherwise things would have gotten out of hand. This kind of cheating can only be done by using someone from another prefecture or county, someone you don't know. But if it's a classmate, once the results are announced, the papers will be out in the open, and there won't be time to change the judgment. What will happen if that Huo guy says something? I won't be able to get away with it either. This is absolutely unacceptable! Unless we find someone else." Xianyu Ji said, "What should we do then? There's no other friend who writes well enough to do that."
Hesitantly, he said, "I've got it! I've got it! This friend Huo has recently done something nasty." Zang Butui asked, "What is it?" Xian Sheng replied, "The other day he painted a scroll titled 'Spring Beauty,' which was sent to Minister Li's residence to seduce the young lady. When the young lady saw the painting, she thought of him and fell ill." Zang Butui asked, "Is it this Minister Li, who is in charge of the imperial examinations?" Xian Sheng replied, "Yes, yes. The young lady personally wrote a poem on a piece of paper and gave it to him, which he accepted." Zang Butui said, "This is even more inexcusable." Xian Sheng said, "Brother, this is clearly breaking up her private life and using it to secretly gain favor; the crime is not uncommon." Zang Butui asked, "Is this really true? We need some proof." Xian Sheng replied, "It is indeed true! Now, the ones leading the horses on both sides are all those hunchbacked old women doctors." He also gave the old woman a gold hairpin. The young lady's poem is now in the old woman's hands; if we seize it and question her, we'll find out the truth.”
Zang Bitui asked, “Is that hunchbacked old woman surnamed Meng?” Xian Sheng replied, “Yes, she is.” Zang Bitui said, “That's easy; she often uses medicine at my house. To be honest, I have two servants who are currently arresting people. We'll have them go and fetch her first, saying they'll treat her illness. Once they get the information out of her, we'll trick her into giving us the poem and the hairpin, then lock her up. We'll make her a useful tool so we can arrest that man surnamed Huo and send him to the authorities.” Xian Sheng said, “Excellent! Excellent! But if we take him to the authorities, it'll become a big problem, and difficult to handle. It's better to scare him into fleeing on his own; once he gets the title, it'll be mine. That's much smoother.” Zang Bitui said, “You've shown some maturity.” He then called his servants over.
The two men approached and said, "What orders does the master have for us?" Zang Butui said, "This gentleman's surname is Xian. He has something for you to do. Come here!" He then whispered something in their ears and asked, "Do you understand?" The two men understood and said in unison, "We understand. We need to tell you where that Huo man lives; and we also need Master Xian to go there, play tricks, and settle the score before we can stop." Xian said, "That makes sense. Everyone, when you catch the Camel Woman tomorrow, secretly send me a message, and I'll go there pretending not to know her. There's a reason for that. You can leave now. You'll be rewarded after it's done." The two men agreed and left.
It was truly
a plan to capture the Jade Rabbit in the moonlight and to seize the Golden Crow in the sun.
But how exactly did they capture the Camel Woman and frighten Huo? Let's find out in the next chapter.
Chapter Ten: Huo Xiufu Flees to an Inn, An Lushan Destroys Tongguan Pass.
It is said that Hua Xingyun burned incense and prayed before the Guanyin statue, saying, "Yesterday, because Huo Lang was ill, I made a wish, and today I am fortunate to be well. I sincerely thank the Great Bodhisattva for saving me, and I am deeply grateful." She then prostrated herself in prayer. Unbeknownst to her, Huo Xiufu had overheard everything and said, "So, Yunniang is praying for me here." She then said to Xingyun, "We are a couple who have only been together for a short time, yet our feelings are so deep. Today, before the Bodhisattva, let us make a vow." The two knelt down together. Huo Xiufu said, "I am Huo Duliang. Now that I have a chance to achieve fame and fortune, I will marry Hua Xingyun, and we will never forget each other." They rose from their knees, and Huo Xiufu said, "I have one more thing to say beforehand: if we ever meet that special person in the future, we will surely be united in marriage." Xingyun said, "We'll talk about that then." The two made their vows and discussed the matter further.
Meanwhile, the two constables had bound Meng Po and dragged her around looking for Huo Sheng. Meng Po said, "Poor thing, how would I know anything about such shady dealings! I was asking Huo Xiucai to exchange these poems and hairpins for 'Spring Beauty' because of his illness. What kind of connection is this?" The constables shouted, "Don't try to sweet-talk us. We're already at Hua Xingyun's door. Don't make a scene. Let's coax him out." So they gently knocked on the door, and Xingyun asked from inside, "Who are you looking for?" The constables replied, "I'm looking for Huo Duliang."
Huo Sheng heard this. Surprised, he withdrew to avoid the situation. Xingyun then asked, "What are you looking for him for?" Opening the door, a constable burst in, saying, "You still ask what's wrong? How did you manage to pull strings and seduce a young woman? There's a confession from her." Meng Po said, "Hua Xingyun! Quickly summon Scholar Huo! Let's confront him face to face. Why did I implicate him? Why am I being tortured like this for no reason? I'm distressed! Distressed!"
Just as she was arguing, Xianyu Ji walked in and asked, "What kind of idle people are making such a fuss here?" The constable replied, "They're not just idle people making a fuss; they're here to break into the gate." Xianyu Ji said, "Who's breaking into the gate?" "Who is it?" the constable asked. "It's Huo Duliang," Xianyu Ji replied. "Hmph! Humph! Humph! Master Huo is my good friend, a man of talent and integrity. How could he do such a thing? Don't come here recklessly. What evidence do you have?" The constable said, "This gentleman is right. As the saying goes, 'To catch a thief, catch him with the stolen goods; to catch an adulterer, catch him in the act.'" He then handed the letter and hairpin to Xianyu Ji, asking, "What are these?" Xianyu Ji replied, "It's a piece of stationery." The constable said, "Who wrote this on this stationery? It's the handwriting of the young lady of the official in charge of the imperial examinations. Huo Duliang first drew a portrait of her in spring, then stole..." He gave it to the young lady, then seduced her, and wrote a poem in response. The meaning was nothing more than using this romantic encounter to exchange feelings and secretly communicate. This hairpin belonged to the old woman, and he was asked to run errands between them; it was truly stolen. The real culprit would be taken away and tortured; he had brought it upon himself. How could I be accused of deceiving a scholar? Besides, Master Li is very strict; if he found out, would he release him easily? Even Hua Xingyun is a key criminal. Speak quickly! Where is Huo Duliang? If he's hiding, that's serious!"
Upon hearing this, Hua Xingyun cried out in fear, "I packed it up and took it back after leaving the palace; it's not here." The constable said, "Since you don't admit it..." "Lock him up." Xianyu Ji stopped him, saying, "Let's discuss this slowly. As the saying goes, 'Saving a life is better than building a seven-story pagoda.'" He then pulled Xingyun behind him and whispered, "It's bad. The other day, you and that old woman with the hairpin were caught by these people. We can't force it. Quickly pack some things, make them pay properly, and leave." Xingyun panicked and said, "I have nothing else with me, only a pair of gold bracelets and a box of gold hairpins. Please give them to them, Master Xian, and let this matter be settled." Xianyu Ji said, "Quickly fetch them."
Xingyun turned around, fetched them, and handed them to Xianyu Ji. Xianyu Ji took them and said, "I have my own way." He turned around and said, "Esteemed officers, Master Huo has already gone back after the event and is not here. This Hua Xingyun is only temporarily with him. How would a woman know where he is? Please accept this small token of our respect, as a favor to our student, and let her go." He then stuffed the items into the sleeve of a constable. The constable said, "This is a matter of utmost importance! How can we settle accounts for these few items? We can't do this! We can't do this!" Xingyun said, "There's no way to deal with this." Xianyu Ji said, "Very well, for the sake of a friend, I still have two ingots of silver left. I'll give them that." Xingyun said, "Thank you! But one thing, the poem must not remain in their hands. Since you've added silver, you must ask for it back."
Xianyu Ji said to the constable, "Gentlemen, this young lady really doesn't have anything with her. I'll give you another twenty taels of silver to forgive her and return the poem." The constable said, "Sir, what you said before was completely unreasonable. How come you're so reasonable now? I've seen it all, but out of respect for you, you're really putting human feelings above the law." He handed over the poem, and Xingyun accepted it. Xian Sheng said to the constable, "Thank you." Meng Po spoke up, "Gentlemen, please have pity on me, I am a cripple, and let me go." The constable shouted, "Hey, you can't let her go! You have to take her to the judicial office for trial and conviction to prove we weren't extorting her; we also have to deal with her at Huo Duliang's hometown." Then he chained and dragged the camel woman away.
Xian Yu Ji then asked Xing Yun, "How did this happen?" Xing Yun said, "Even I don't know how it happened. I was perfectly fine at home when suddenly these constables rushed in, and there was no time for anyone to explain." Xian Sheng said, "It must be that the camel woman's tongue is loose, and she told others about what happened before. Alas! What kind of time is this? A little carelessness, and trouble has arisen. Tell me, where is Brother Huo?" Xing Yun said, "He's in the back room, let's go in and meet him."
When Huo Sheng saw Xian Yu Ji, he couldn't help but shed tears. Xingyun said, "I am so grateful to Master Xianyu. He spent so much of his own money to save me from all this trouble. I have also redeemed my poem." Huo Sheng took the poem and bowed to thank Xianyu. Xianyu Ji stopped him, saying, "We have been friends since childhood. What a bond we have! Why are you thanking me?" Huo Sheng said, "Brother Xianyu, do you know how I have ever suffered like this in my life? If I were to go to court and be interrogated without any regard for the truth, how would I answer?" Xianyu said, "It doesn't matter." Huo Sheng said, "The painting was indeed done by me, and it looks just like that young lady; the poem is also in Miss Li's own handwriting. If I confess that a swallow brought it, I would be covered in mouths. Who would believe that? I would definitely be tortured and punished, and my life would be over."
Upon hearing this, Xingyun was overcome with sorrow. Xianyu Ji said, "Brother Huo, this matter seems fine. I'll help you take the lead and debate with those corrupt officials; I'm sure I won't lose. There's no need to go far. If you go, it won't hinder your career advancement." Huo Sheng said, "Brother, my life is more important now; I can't afford to think about fame and fortune. I must bid you farewell. Please take care of things after we part." Xianyu Ji said, "If you really must go, I will naturally take care of everything after we part and make sure everything is settled properly. Don't worry about it." Huo Sheng said behind his back, "Very well. I'll go to [location name] to find Teacher Qin." He turned around, and then bid farewell to Xingyun and Xianyu Ji with tears in his eyes, and hurriedly left. Xian Sheng
also bid farewell to Xingyun. On the way, he exclaimed happily, "The plan was indeed well thought out! It's a good help. I'll tell Old Zang again and reassure him that it's done." Leaving aside the matter of Xianyu Ji's cheating, let's talk about
the old general Geshu Han, who was ordered to guard Tongguan. He gave his soldiers an order: "Look at the Yuyang troops, they're swarming towards Tongguan like ants. When they get close, charge forward with all your might, don't retreat!" The soldiers obeyed and held their ground tightly.
Meanwhile, An Lushan, leading He Qiannian and tens of thousands of soldiers, advanced. Lushan said, "Tongguan is not far away! Geshu Han's troops are here, you and I will charge forward." Before he finished speaking, the two armies clashed, and after a fierce battle, Geshu Han was defeated and fled. Lu Shan laughed loudly, "Look at that old man Geshu Han! In just one or two battles, all those soldiers have scattered like rats. General He Qiannian, you can lead five thousand iron cavalry to storm Tongguan and head straight for Chang'an."
After He Qiannian received the order, did he manage to break through Tongguan? Let's find out in the next chapter.

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One of the Ten Forbidden Books of the Ming and Qing Dynasties: Swallow Letter

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