The Ten Forbidden Books of the Ming and Qing Dynasties: Part 1 - The Wind Howls

Mei Xian, her face brightening with joy, was completely cured of her illness. She then replied with a sigh, "This humble scholar is of meager talent and virtue, yet I am deeply grateful for your kind promise, Miss. It is an immeasurable debt I cannot repay." She then read the oath in its entirety and hid it inside. Finding nothing to express her gratitude, she took a coral whip from a brocade pouch from her bedside and wrote another oath: " Mei Xian, I offer
my humble offering, though my talent and virtue are lacking.
The virtuous lady Feng Xiao, with your profound favor , bestows this
coral whip as a token of my humble gratitude.
We pledge to be inseparable, forever bound by our vows. May
Heaven's watchful eye punish any breach of this oath.
" Having finished writing, she handed the coral whip to Xia Xiao, saying, "This was a gift from the Immortal Master; I will never be without it, whether sitting or lying down. Now I will cherish it with you, Miss. Seeing this coral whip is like seeing me." Having said this, she gave him the oath, and they parted, each taking care of it.
Xia Xiao then gave it to Feng Niang. Upon seeing the coral whip, Fengniang sighed, "Although the auspicious dream has come true, my body is like a blank sheet of jade. Now, with this slight imperfection, I must wait for a skilled craftsman to polish it before I can regain my former state." Xia Xiao said, "Master Bai is the skilled craftsman. We will each receive our marriage decrees in a few days, and the slight imperfection will be left unpolished." Fengniang hid the vow and the coral whip.
Mei Xian also carefully stored away the amber rings and the covenant. From then on, the three of them recited poems together, enjoying each other's company. After recovering from her illness, Mei Xian resumed her tutoring duties, instructing Jin Sheng. Although she saw Xia Xiao, she had no lewd thoughts. Therefore, the two of them valued her even more. Having received the vow and the tokens, Mei Xian finally understood what Huang Du Ke had said. The line "Remembering the flute on the Phoenix Terrace" referred to marriage, and now it had indeed come true.
But it remains to be seen when the two will become a good match; let us hear the next chapter for the answer.
Chapter Nine: Having Traveled Through the Misty Waves, Returning to Their Hometown, Seeking Each Other's Voices Across the Ends of the Earth .
The poem reads: "
At sunset, I stop my oar to gather white water lilies, In vain I ask the traveler about my distant thoughts."
Fading sound and dust across a thousand miles, another spring has passed with lush grass.
Each time, poetry becomes a conversation, and dreams bring us together again.
The bright moon over Yanshan and the waters of Wujiang reflect the new,
white hair fluttering in the breeze. Now, let's talk about Bai Mei Xian. After making his vows, his illness was completely cured, and he resumed his teaching duties, day and night without fail. One sweltering summer day, Mei Xian sat in the courtyard to cool off. Hong Ying brought tea to the hall, but finding Mei Xian not there, she took the tea to the courtyard and said to him, "Master Bai, it's very hot today. I've brought you a pot of tea to quench your thirst." Mei Xian said, "Since there's tea, you can leave it in the hall." Hong Ying didn't leave, but stood there, smiling as she looked at Mei Xian. Mei Xian pretended not to see her and turned away. Feeling awkward, Hong Ying didn't leave the tea in the hall and went inside.
It turned out that Hong Ying secretly thought Mei Xian must be like Qiu Sheng, wanting to have an affair with him. Little did she expect that Mei Xian would actually come to her. Hongying, however, became displeased and whispered to the lady of the house, "Just now, I brought tea to the teahouse and was about to place it on the table when Master Bai reached out to take it. He pinched my hand, winked at me, and smiled. I ignored him and rushed in." The lady of the house was furious and said, "For a teacher to harbor such lewd thoughts is extremely impolite!" She then went to Fengniang's room to tell her what had happened. Fengniang said, "Master Bai is a learned man; how could he have such evil thoughts? Let's investigate the matter thoroughly before we can speak to him." Xiaxiao said, "Don't say anything now; we'll find out when the young master comes home from school." The lady of the house nodded in agreement.
A short while later, Jinsheng came in, not seeing the lady of the house, and instead went to Fengniang's room to bow. The lady asked, "Did Hongying drink the tea she brought out this morning?" Jinsheng replied, "No. He took the tea to the inn, but seeing the master resting in the courtyard, he took it there. I saw him say a few words to the master. The master didn't even drink the tea." The lady asked, "Did the master smile at him?" Jinsheng replied, "No. I only saw Hongying stand there and smile at the master. The master turned his back and ignored her. The previous Mr. Qiu often joked and laughed with Hongying. This Mr. Bai doesn't do that at all." The lady said, "That's it. This lowly maid tried to seduce him, but he ignored her, and this lowly maid has instead spread rumors." She then summoned Hongying and questioned her about Jinsheng's words. Hongying, seeing the truth revealed, bowed her head and remained silent. The lady was furious and beat Hongying severely. Fortunately, Fengniang and Xiaxiao intervened. From then on, she revered Meixian as a deity. Hongying dared not slander her anymore, nor did she wish to seek reconciliation.
While Mei Xian was in the academy, in addition to her daily lessons, she also paid attention to poetry and prose, and taught Jin Sheng to write. Jin Sheng was naturally intelligent, understanding things quickly and learning them easily, and the two got along very well. Before they knew it, three years had passed.
That year was the thirteenth year of Emperor Shenzong's reign, which was renamed the first year of Yuanfeng. Wang Anshi had been prime minister for a long time, and Emperor Shenzong was also tired of his long-term monopoly of state affairs. At that time, the treacherous Lü Huiqing knew that the emperor disliked Anshi, and he gave Emperor Shenzong private letters containing the words "Do not let anyone know." He used all his wits to harm Anshi. There was also a supervising censor named Cai Que, who was also an agent of Anshi. Now that the emperor disliked Anshi, he impeached Anshi on the way, accusing him of riding a horse into Xuande Gate and competing with the guards for Jia Zhi and other serious crimes. Emperor Shenzong listened to this and dismissed Anshi from his position as prime minister, demoting him to prefect of Jiangning. This was what was called "raising a tiger to devour itself." Anshi also sent people to attack Huiqing for his crimes, and he was also dismissed. Wang Gui was reinstated as co-prime minister, and Feng Jing was appointed to the Privy Council. All exiled officials were recalled, reinstated, and promoted—this is another story.
Now, let's talk about Bai Gong, who, after being rescued by Liu Zhao, bought a boat and fled. Bai Gong disguised himself as a fisherman and floated on the Five Lakes. Liu Zhao caught fish and sold them to support Bai Gong. Therefore, although Hui Qing issued a nationwide warrant for his capture, who would search the Five Lakes? At this time, both Wang Anshi and Hui Qing were dismissed, and the trouble had subsided. Bai Gong, knowing this, said to Liu Zhao, "I was rescued by you and supported for several years. Now, fortunately, the powerful minister has been dismissed, the storm has subsided, and I can return to my hometown and see the light of day again. You no longer need to fish; come back with me, and I will marry you, fulfilling your long-cherished wish, and repaying your kindness." Liu Zhao gladly agreed. He then sold the fishing boat to raise travel expenses and followed Bai Gong. The journey from Qingzhou was arduous, which need not be detailed. Upon
arriving at Le'an County, Bai Gong and Liu Zhao entered the city. They found the scene quite different from before. As the saying goes, "
The city walls remain, but the people are no longer the same."
Bai Gong, filled with sorrow, arrived at Liuyin Village. He saw the stele pavilion collapsed and the archway destroyed. Not knowing why, he was overcome with grief at the sight of these things and tears streamed down his face. A short while later, he arrived home. The path remained, but the place was utterly desolate. Wan'er was sweeping the ground in front of the door. Bai Gong called out, "Wan'er, I'm back." Wan'er looked up and recognized her old master. Without answering, she dropped her broom and rushed inside to inform her wife. Her wife, half-believing, hurried out. Bai Gong had already entered the hall. The wife and husband met and embraced, weeping bitterly. The wife asked, "I heard that you, sir, were missing in prison. I was worried day and night about your fate. I never expected to see you again today."
Wan'er called for a maid. Liu Zhao also greeted the wife. The wife asked, "Who is this?" Mr. Bai said, "I was rescued from prison by this man, otherwise my life would have been lost in a ditch!" His wife asked, "What is this man's name? How did he know to rescue you, sir?" Mr. Bai replied, "His name is Liu Zhao, nicknamed Black Flying God. He was originally from a fishing family, but because of his skill in leaping and bounding, he was forced into joining a gang of thieves. Years ago, during the Lantern Festival, they robbed my house. I gave him gold and silk, and he was the one who was released. Later, he went fishing, but he needed money to get married. When he couldn't repay his debts, he sold his wife and boat, but it still wasn't enough, so he came to me for help. I happened to go to the capital, and he followed me. He was imprisoned in the prison, but one night he climbed over the wall, stole something, and escaped. He bought a boat and fished in the Five Lakes to support me. Today, I am safe and sound, all thanks to his efforts."
His wife praised him greatly and then ordered the old woman who used to look after the farm to prepare wine and food for Liu Zhao. Bai Gong asked, "Where is my son?" His wife, with tears in her eyes, replied, "Since you disappeared in prison, the court sent cavalry to arrest him. Fortunately, my friends Yuan and Fang knew about this and persuaded him to flee, so he wasn't caught. The cavalry came to search our house, and I tricked them into going to the capital to find out about you. So when they left, they saw the memorial archway and the steles, and for some reason, they destroyed them all. They are still standing there." Bai Gong said, "These were built for me by Magistrate Bao, which is why they destroyed them. I wonder what has become of Brother Bao?" His wife said, "After you were arrested, he resigned from his post and disappeared." Bai Gong exclaimed, "How brilliant! How brilliant!" He then asked, "Where did my son go?" His wife said, "He left in a hurry that day without saying where he was going. We still don't know where he is."
Bai Gong wept again, saying, "Now that I've returned from this ordeal, when will my son be able to come home? He doesn't know the way, he doesn't know where he's going, his fate is uncertain, father to the south, son to the north, how painful!" The two of them burst into tears. Bai Gong asked, "Where have these servants gone?" The lady replied, "After our child ran away, seeing our household in ruins, all the servants went to work for powerful and wealthy families. Only Wan'er and the old servant couple who used to manage the estate are still with us, providing for our needs and cleaning." Upon hearing this, Bai Gong nodded and sighed, "I never imagined the world could be so cold and heartless." As the saying goes:
When the gold in one's purse is gone, even servants will betray their masters.
The lady prepared wine and recounted to Bai Gong the bitterness of their separation over the past few years. Wan'er entered and reported, "Lord Yuan and Lord Fang have sent a servant with a load of rice and several dried fish outside." Bai Gong asked, "Is it Yuan Jianlu and Fang Duanru?" The lady replied, "Since I left home, I've been entirely grateful to these two for their constant visits, bringing rice and firewood, and helping me with everything. They are truly rare and righteous men." Bai Gong said, "These are the kind of friends who would stand by me through thick and thin." He praised them highly and ordered them to be accepted. Bai Gong went out of the hall and said to the servant, "I've troubled you to bring these things again. Please thank the two gentlemen for me, and tell them I've returned and no longer need to send them. I will come to thank them in person tomorrow." He then invited the servant to stay for lunch and left.
The servant returned home and told the two gentlemen the reason for Bai Gong's return. The two gentlemen were overjoyed and came together to comfort Bai Gong. Bai Gong greeted them and led them into the hall. The two men hurriedly bowed and said, "Uncle, you suffered an undeserved calamity and lingered for several years. Now that you have returned home safely, we are overjoyed. We have failed to greet you properly." Bai Gong thanked them repeatedly. Duanru said, "Old man, you were still white-bearded and had gray hair when you left, but now you return
with your temples piled with frost. It's truly heartbreaking." Jianlu said, "Old man, we didn't see you in prison. How did you get out? Where are you hiding? We don't know yet." Bai Gong said, "Thanks to the righteous man Liu Zhao, the Black Flying God, who was released back then. He borrowed money from the Green Sprouts Fund to get married, but when he couldn't get the money back, he had to sell his wife and boat. Even then, he couldn't pay it off, so he came to me. I was arrested and taken to the capital, and he followed me. While I was in prison, he had the ability to leap over the wall and rescue me. We lived by fishing in the Five Lakes for the past few years. Now, I've been fortunate enough to travel all over the lakes and return to my hometown to meet you all. It's a blessing from heaven. I only learned today that after my son escaped, my family relied on your help. We will never forget your great kindness." The two friends said, "We are ashamed. We don't know if Brother Meixian will be able to get news and return?" Bai Gong said, "Do you two know..." Where should he go? The two said, "I didn't have time to ask before I went out that day." It was me and I who persuaded him to go, and today we are the ones who are looking for him to come back. "Bai Gong said: "After the family's support has not been underpaid, how dare you bother me again? I wrote an article to tell the world. If he knew I was coming home, he would definitely come back!
The two said: "The world is so vast, where can we publish so many notices?" The two of us are free at home again. Since ancient times, there has been a saying: 'The whole beginning must be the whole end. Do you dare to say that you have traveled far? 'But I don't know where Brother Bai is going. Where can he find happiness along the way? Duan Ru said, "I have a plan." Brother Bai will never leave the sky. If you visit all the corners of the world, you will find the stuff. The two of us went looking for it in two directions: north and south. But who goes south? Who goes north? Jian Lu said: "It's not difficult. It's just like casting lots." "Then they wrote two characters on the paper; one for south and one for north. They rolled it into a round shape and put it on the table. Those
who picked up the characters would go to the right direction. When the two of them finished reading, they found the character for south, and gradually they found the character for north. Shi Wan'er, who was nearby, heard that they were going to find the young master, so she stepped forward and said, "Since you two gentlemen are going to find my husband, I will go with you." The two said, "We will split up and go in two directions, north and south. Which one would you like to go with?"
As the three were discussing, Liu Zhao came in from outside. Bai Gong said, "This is the righteous man, Hei Fei Shen." The two friends looked at him and indeed, he had an extraordinary appearance. Bai Gong said to Liu Zhao, "You may come and pay your respects to Ministers Yuan and Fang." Liu Zhao bowed to them and asked, "What are you two ministers discussing here?" Duanru said, "We are going to find Minister Bai. We are going in opposite directions, one to the north and one to the south. Wan'er also wants to go with us, but we are undecided about which one to go with." Liu Zhao said, "In that case, one person is missing. I am here now, and I led the master to seek refuge. Can't the young lady go to find him? I will go with you." Duanru said, "A true righteous man, your name is well-deserved. But which direction do you two choose, south or north?" Jianlu said, "We can draw lots as we did before." The three agreed. Wan'er drew south, and Liu Zhao drew north. They decided that each would choose one of the two chosen.
Seeing that his two friends were determined to go, and that Wan'er and Liu Zhao were happy to go, Bai Gong had no choice but to prepare a farewell feast. He said, "I have committed many sins, causing my son to flee far away. Now, I have troubled you two to cross mountains and rivers, enduring hardships. It is all my fault." The two replied, "We are your sons' elder brothers, and we have been sworn brothers since childhood. Our bond is stronger than that of sworn brothers, and we share the same voice and aspirations. It is our duty. How could we, sir, trouble you with your earnest concern for us, given our distant distance?"
Bai Gong gave each of them ten taels of silver, saying, "Because I have been away from home for a long time, my family business has declined, and I have no substantial sum to give you. This is just a small token of my sincerity." The two friends said, "If you, sir, were to trouble yourself with such a small matter as travel expenses, we would be truly despicable." Bai Gong said, "It is but a small token, not travel expenses. It is just a small contribution. Although you two do not accept money, how could I, an old man, go with you and then ask for your kindness?" The two had no choice but to accept the gifts. Wan'er and Liu Zhao each packed their bags, and Bai Gong also gave each of them five taels of silver, which they hid with them.
Before parting, the two friends said to Bai Gong, "If you are fortunate enough to meet us when we leave, it would be best if you could return with us. If we cannot find you, and this delays, please rest assured, sir, at home." The two friends then bowed and took their leave, and Bai Gong, moved to tears, saw them off. The two friends, along with Liu Zhao and Wan'er, went home to pack their belongings and travel expenses. The four of them then went their separate ways, heading north and south respectively, to search for Mei Xian.
It is unknown who will meet Mei Xian first, or whether they will ultimately meet. Let us find out in the next chapter .
Chapter Ten: Sailing on West Lake, Shenji Shi tells Nan Yan to return to heaven , and family reunions take place.
The poem reads:
A narrow path leads into the misty clouds, deep in the mountains, human footprints are scarce.
The wind blows through the treetops, the sound of monkeys howling; after the rain, birds fly over the stream.
Moss grows long, green coins clinging to waxed clogs; plum blossoms drift, fragrant snow dotting spring clothes.
Searching for seclusion, I did not realize how late I returned; several times, crows cawed in the evening glow.
Meanwhile, Fang Duanru and Wan'er had been searching for Mei Xian all the way south. They visited every teahouse, inn, nunnery, and temple, but found no trace of her. Unable to find her in one place, they moved on to another, still without success. They had been traveling through several provincial capitals and countless counties for months. Duanru said, "Wan'er, we've been traveling east and west without any luck. I just heard someone say this is Macheng County in Huguang. Let's go into the city and ask if there's a fortune teller there. We can ask him which way to go."
Having decided, the two entered the city. It was a bustling place, teeming with carriages and merchants—a truly prosperous place. They strolled around and saw many fortune tellers, but they sat quietly. Duanru said, "Those sitting quietly alone are probably not very skilled; don't bother asking them." The two wandered east and west, inquiring about Mei Xian's whereabouts. As evening approached, they had no choice but to find lodging. Duanru asked the innkeeper, "Are there any skilled diviners here?" The innkeeper replied, "There are plenty of diviners, about ten in the neighborhood, but they all just swindle money from you, spout a few random words, and send you on your way. They're not reliable. There's a local earth god on West Street; his dreams are very effective. Just sleep in the temple for one night, and the earth god will appear in your dream. If you act according to the dream, it will surely come true. All the people in this county go to this temple to seek their dreams."
Duanru was overjoyed. The next morning, after a devout fast and bath, he prepared incense and candles and went to the temple. He went in first to burn incense and pray, pouring out his feelings. After praying, he returned to the inn, had dinner, and told Wan'er to stay there. He took his bedding and went to the temple to sleep beside the altar. He wondered where Mei Xian was, and what would happen if she appeared in his dream. He tossed and turned, unable to sleep, until midnight when he was extremely tired and his eyes began to drowsy. He saw himself sitting in a boat, in the middle of a lake. The boats were like ants, their embroidered decorations dazzling. Duanru asked the boatman, "What is the name of this lake? Why are there so many tourists?" The boatman replied, "This is called West Lake." A moment later, a painted boat appeared. A person peeked out, and Duanru recognized Meixian. He hurriedly waved his hand, saying, "Brother Bai, Brother Bai, I've come specifically to find you! Please come aboard quickly!" As the two boats drew near, he saw a woman in the cabin wearing a golden phoenix crown, and another woman standing beside her playing the flute. Meixian tried to approach, but the two women held him back. Duanru pulled hard, swaying the boat to one side. Startled, Duanru jumped awake. It was all a dream.
Duanru was overjoyed. It was already the third crow of the rooster. He got up, thanked the local earth god, packed his bedding, and returned to the inn. He told Wan'er about his dream, adding, "West Lake belongs to Hangzhou. Let's go to Hangzhou now." The two were overjoyed, thanked the innkeeper, and set off. They didn't delay their journey and soon arrived in Hangzhou. Because of the dream, they went to West Lake every day to inquire, but to no avail.
After searching for over a month, Duanru said to Wan'er, "The dream seemed to have a reason. Now that we've come to West Lake to inquire, why is there no trace? Could it be that even the gods are deceiving me?" Then she thought again, "The gods' words must be profound. Although it's West Lake, it may not actually be West Lake. I will now search every county under the jurisdiction of Hangzhou Prefecture; surely I will find it." Having made their decision, the two went to search every county under the prefecture, but still found nothing. Finally, they arrived at Xincheng County. They searched the entire city and then went outside the city to search for several more days.
One day, the two passed by Muyun Nunnery. Duanru said, "Although this nunnery is desolate, we should still go in and take a look." So he and Wan'er went into the nunnery and found it deserted. Wan'er said, "Let's go out. We can't find any lively places, and this nunnery is completely deserted. What's the point?" Duanru said, "Since we're already in, let's take a look." The two went into the guest hall, and Wan'er said, "There are some lines of writing on the wall. Why don't you go and take a look, sir?" Duanru asked, "Where is it?" Wan'er pointed and said, "Isn't it on this wall?" Upon looking, it was just as the saying goes: "
I searched high and low without finding it, but it came to me without any effort. "
Duanru looked up and saw that the poem was followed by "Inscribed by Bai Meixian, a guest of Qidong." Duanru immediately jumped up and clapped his hands, laughing loudly. Looking at the words on the other wall, he saw that Bai Meixian had inscribed them, and he was even more delighted, laughing heartily. Wan'er asked, "Why are you so happy, my lord?" Duanru replied, "The poem on the wall was written by your husband. Alright, alright, we've found a needle in a haystack!" Wan'er said, "My lord, don't be so happy. This hermitage is extremely desolate, and there's not a soul in sight. It's possible that you live here. Perhaps you just happened to pass by, wrote a poem here, and then went somewhere else. Who knows?"
Duanru, who had been overjoyed, lost his spirits after Wan'er's words. He was too listless to move and sat motionless on the stool. Wan'er said, "Husband, don't be discouraged. Go and ask someone at the nunnery." Duanru said, "I'm too lazy to walk. You go and ask."
Wan'er then searched around and found an old Taoist priest weeding vegetables in the back garden. Wan'er quickly stepped forward and bowed, saying, "Old friend, is Master Bai in your nunnery?" The priest replied, "No." Wan'er's heart skipped a beat, and she had to ask again, "Master Bai from Shandong, did you inscribe a poem on the wall of your nunnery?" The priest said, "He's gone."
Wan'er became even more alarmed and asked again, "Where did he go?" The priest said, "He went to tutor Minister Jin in the city." Wan'er felt relieved and asked for details. When she returned to the guest hall, she saw Duanru sitting blankly. Wan'er said, "Now you should be able to walk. My husband is tutoring Minister Jin in the city. I've confirmed it. Go and find him." Upon hearing this, Duanru's face lit up with joy, and his strength returned. When Wan'er and I entered the city, we asked the Jin family. Finding no one at the door, we went inside and called out , "Is Master Bai here?"
Mei Xian, who was just revising some text with Jin Sheng, heard someone calling him and assumed it was someone asking him to write an essay for a fan. He slowly came out of the shop and asked, "Who is it?" Mei Xian didn't recognize Duanru. Duanru, seeing Mei Xian, hurriedly went to the hall and bowed, saying, "Brother, where are you staying? I've been searching for you everywhere!" Mei Xian returned the bow, stood up, and looked closely before recognizing Duanru. He bowed again, overjoyed, saying, "Brother, you've traveled a long way; how did you find me here?" Just then, Wan'er entered and kowtowed. Mei Xian was delighted, saying, "Why have you come too?" He gestured for Duanru to sit on the threshold, then took Duanru's hand and sat down. He asked about Master Bai's whereabouts, whether his wife was well after their separation, and why he had come to find him. He inquired about his whereabouts in detail.
Duanru then explained that Master Bai had been rescued from prison by Liu Zhao, escaped to the lake, and returned home, where peace had been restored. He then sent his two friends to search for him separately, one going north and the other south. He himself had come to
Hangzhou through a dream, and happened to visit the temple while reading poetry, where he learned of the situation. He recounted the whole story. Mei Xian expressed her gratitude and appreciation. Jin Sheng, knowing that someone from the gentleman's family had come, went in to inform his wife. He hurriedly prepared a meal at the inn, and an old servant came to invite them. Mei Xian then went in with Duan Ru and sat down. The old servant then accompanied Wan'er to the outer room for a meal. Duanru said to Meixian, "Your father longed for your brother, so I came to visit him. Now that we are reunited, I only hope that you will return with me." Meixian replied, "I also miss home day and night, and I often dream of my parents. However, I dare not return because I fear the troubles have not yet subsided. Now that you have come, we will naturally return together. Why should I stay here?" Duanru said, "No. I dreamt of you before, and although I saw you on a boat, just as you were about to pass, two women wearing golden phoenix crowns and playing the flute grabbed you and wouldn't let you go. I woke up in fright. So even though I see you now, I beg you to return immediately." Meixian chuckled to himself upon hearing this. Duanru asked, "What's so funny?" Meixian whispered in his ear, telling him about the alliance between Fengniang and Xiaxiao.
Duanru exclaimed in surprise, "The dream has truly come true!" Meixian said, "Not only has the dream come true, but the Yellow Calf Guest I met with you years ago also gave me a few words, which I now believe have all come true. The first line says, 'Riding a small boat, I invite flying immortals to travel.' According to you, these two lines apply to your father's matter. Also, the line 'Birds roost on trees by the pond, a monk knocks on the moonlit gate' applies to your stay at Muyun Nunnery. As for 'Remembering the flute on Phoenix Terrace,' it also applies to this. Only the last line is unclear. Since you doubt me because of the dream, I will secretly write a farewell letter to you two and tell your mother tomorrow so that you and I can go together."
That night, Duanru and Wan'er stayed at the Jin family's house. Fengniang knew that Meixian wanted to leave, and she couldn't keep her, nor could she see her off. She could only give Meixian five taels of silver and a hairpin in advance, and in the evening, she sent Xiaxiao to deliver them to Meixian as a farewell gift, and prayed that he would not break his promise. Mei Xian also wrote a farewell letter to Xia Xiao, saying, "I have nothing to give you, but I will give you one of my two volumes of 'The Collection of Coral Whips.' If we are married in the future, we will compile the two volumes into one, fulfilling our shared wish. Since you cannot say goodbye in person, please convey my gratitude." Xia Xiao accepted the letter and the collection of poems, adding, "My lord, take care on your long journey. Upon your return, please come and propose marriage immediately, so that neither of us will be disappointed." They parted, each weeping.
The next day, the lady of the house hosted a farewell banquet. Jin Sheng wept, saying, "I have received your teachings for several years, your kindness is like a second life. Today I am returning far away, and I do not know when we will meet again. How can I express my feelings?" Mei Xian also wept, saying, "Do not be sad, the days ahead are long, why worry about not being able to meet again?" She then asked the lady of the house to come out and bid him farewell. The lady of the house gave Mei Xian all the money she had accumulated for her studies, and also gave her five taels of silver for travel expenses.
Mei Xian packed her bags, carefully placing the amber rings and the vows in a brocade pouch on her chest. All the antiques and trinkets given to her by friends, which were not suitable to take with her, were given to Jin Sheng. She instructed Wan'er to pack her luggage and go out with Duanru. Jin Sheng followed to see her off. Mei Xian said, "I still need to say goodbye to my friends Wei and He, there's no need to see me off, go back." Jin Sheng had no choice but to return home in tears.
Mei Xian first came to say goodbye to Wei Feixia. Feixia said, "I didn't know, I haven't had a farewell yet." He repeatedly pleaded with her to stay. Wei Feixia sent He Shengzhi and Shen Yunpeng to see her off. They shared their heartfelt feelings. The next day, Wei Feixia presented her with two bolts of colored silk, four bolts of pine brocade, and ten taels of silver. He and Shen each gave her several taels of silver. The three saw Mei Xian off outside the city, weeping as they bid her farewell. Mei Xian then went to Muyun Temple to say goodbye to Kongru, presenting him with two bolts of colored silk and five taels of silver to repay his kindness in staying with her. From then on, the three hired servants and set off for Shandong.
On the way, Duanru asked Meixian, "How is the horse you brought?" Meixian replied, "It died in the nunnery, so I stayed here." Duanru then asked, "Did you bring the coral whip with you?" Meixian said, "Yes, I did." Duanru asked, "Why isn't it here?" Meixian silently told him that he had already given it to Fengniang. Duanru said, "In that case, it's on me. I'll go back and tell my uncle, and then we can arrange the betrothal." Meixian asked, "Since we parted, have you married your sister-in-law? How is your career going?" Duanru said, "I married her the year before last. Brother Yuan has been married for three years and has a son. I'm still single. It was after you left for three years that we both entered the academy."
The two of them asked and answered each other, and the journey was not lonely. They had no worries and soon arrived home. Wan'er carried their luggage and ran home to inform them. Bai Gong was overjoyed and came out of the hall with Lady Changsun to see them. Meixian came in and knelt down, saying, "You unfilial son has been away from home, unable to help your father in his time of need, and neglecting your mother in her old age. You are truly a sinner of the world."
Bai Gong helped her up. Duanru also paid his respects. Bai Gong and his wife repeatedly expressed their gratitude. They then asked Meixian, "Where have you been hiding for the past few years?" Meixian recounted in detail her stay at the nunnery and her lodging at the Jin family's residence. Bai Gong then asked Duanru, "How did you manage to find them after such a long journey?" Duanru then recounted in detail his dream at the temple, the poems on the wall, and the farewell feast with his friends. Bai Gong sighed, "In ancient times, only those seeking relatives would travel thousands of miles without hesitation. Now, you are such a friend; how can my foolish father and I repay you?" Duanru modestly declined.
His wife had already prepared wine in the outer room and invited them to sit down. During the banquet, Duanru said, "When Brother Bai fled to avoid the calamity, he was only a young man, but now he is in his prime. Fortunately, the troubles have been quelled, and you, sir, can arrange your marriage. With the help of your family, your affairs will be settled." Bai Gong said with tears in his eyes, "I have long had this intention. Because of this unfortunate misfortune, I have not been able to do so. Now, if I could find a suitable match, the marriage would be perfect." Duanru said, "There is a matter that is a serendipitous encounter." She then recounted in detail the whole story of Meixian's stay at the inn, and her relationship with Fengniang and Xiaxiao.
Upon hearing this, Bai Gong was delighted and said, "It is indeed a good match. However, the journey is long, so who will offer betrothal gifts?" Duanru replied, "Brother Yuan has gone north; when will he return? I wish to go and find him, so I cannot go with him. It would be perfect if I went. You can send Wan'er to ask him; there will be no obstacles. Alternatively, Brother Bai can write a letter to Wei Feixia. I will take my leave now." Bai Gong agreed and then asked Duanru, "When will you go to find Brother Yuan?" Duanru replied, "I am going home now, and I will head north immediately." Bai Gong said, "To forget one's family for a friend is truly a rare and righteous person in this world." He then gave Duanru a pound of silver as travel expenses. Meixian also gave Duanru twenty taels of silver and a bolt of pine silk given by Feixia.
Duanru accepted Meixian's gift but firmly refused Bai Gong's gold. After repeated refusals, Bai Gong finally gave her a fast donkey for her journey. Duanru accepted it and returned home. Before parting, Meixian said, "I hope to meet Brother Yuan soon and return. I have prepared wine for us to reminisce." Duanru readily agreed. Upon returning home, she also bid farewell. She packed her bags and, riding the donkey given to her by Bai Gong, set off north to find Yuan Jianlu and Liu Zhao.
Bai Gong, having heard of Duanru's marriage proposal, presented her with a betrothal letter, a pair of gold phoenix hairpins, a pair of jade hairpins, four bolts of brocade, and fifty taels of betrothal money, instructing Wan'er to hide them well, take plenty of travel expenses, and prepare for her journey. Meixian also gave Wei Feixia, He Shengzhi, and Shen Yunpeng three elegant fans, her own finely written calligraphy, and three ancient inkstones as a token of her gratitude. Wan'er placed all of these in her bag. She bid farewell to her master and headed towards Hangzhou.
Whether the marriage proposal will be accepted remains to be seen; let's find out in the next chapter.
Chapter Eleven: The Stove's Treacherous Nature Gradually Spreads; The Prison Magistrate Personally Delivers the Phoenix.
A poem reads:
Spring arrives, red and purple blossoms adorn the fragrant countryside; Pity the lack of old friends amidst the revelry.
Even the finest steed's ambition remains unfulfilled; The wren
longs for its nest in vain. Wine cups are drunk with delight as flowers bloom; White tea, startling the sleeper, is knocked upon through the bamboo.
The sweetness of forests and springs is distinct from the blandness of nature; From now on, the mountain spirits will no longer mock us.
Meanwhile, Bai Gong sent Wan'er to Jin Yongwu's house in Hangzhou to propose marriage. That year, Emperor Shenzong passed away, and Crown Prince Xu ascended the throne, changing the era name to Yuan You, becoming Emperor Zhezong. He summoned a group of upright gentlemen from the previous dynasty, such as Sima Guang, Wen Yanbo, and Su Shi, to govern the court. He abolished all of Wang Anshi's new laws. The world unanimously praised the good governance. At that time, Wang Anshi had already died. Therefore, his faction was punished, and Lü Huiqing was exiled to Jianzhou. Jin Yongwu was summoned back to govern Qingzhou. Jin Gong accepted the imperial decree and hastily prepared for his departure.
When Lü Huiqing was at the height of his power, he demoted and exiled people to satisfy his personal grudges. Now, however, his fate had befallen him, and he felt resentful and refused to leave the capital. Forced by the imperial decree, he had no choice but to pack up all his treasures and valuables, load them onto a cart, and take his family with him, hurrying towards Jianzhou. He sighed with despair along the way, each step a step less strenuous. One day, the coachman said, "Hurry, we'll reach Jianzhou soon, only a hundred li away."
Hearing that they were close, Lü Huiqing's anxiety grew, thinking that reaching Jianzhou would be like falling into a well. Just then, he saw a desolate area and heard the sound of bells ringing from the woods. Huiqing turned to ask the coachman, only to see twenty or thirty riders galloping towards them. The coachman, seeing them, panicked and fled. The men pushed the baggage cart away. Huiqing, unwilling to give up, got off the cart to try and seize it. The men bound Lü Huiqing and even his family. They packed everything up, even pushing the cart away, leaving only an empty one.
Lü Huiqing watched them take it, feeling a pang of pity, yet daring not to cry out. The bandits fled, and he struggled on the ground, unable to break free, secretly groaning in despair. The bandits, having seen the many valuables in the cart along the way, rushed out to this open space and robbed it. Huiqing was lamenting his misfortune when he saw a pair of yellow flags ahead, bearing the words "Imperial Edict to Ascend Office," and a cart approaching from behind. Huiqing cried out, "Help! Help!" He heard the man in the cart say, "Stop the cart and untie this man." A man came forward and untied Lü Huiqing's ropes. Huiqing then freed his family. The man in the cart asked, "Are you Prime Minister Lü?"
Lü Huiqing looked up and recognized Jin Yongwu. Overwhelmed with shame, he could only step forward and pay his respects. Jin Gong returned the greeting from the carriage and asked, "Old Prime Minister Lü, why have you come here? Is this also at the behest of your teacher?" Huiqing bowed his head and replied, "I have been banished by the Emperor's grace, and there is no escaping my punishment." Jin Gong then asked, "Why are you bound here?" He replied, "I was robbed." He gritted his teeth and spoke with resentment. Jin Gong said, "Although your valuables have been stolen, it is enough that you have kept your head. Now I have also been granted a title by the Emperor, which is equivalent to my former position as one of the Three Excellencies. However, since you have been robbed, you must be short of travel expenses. I have borrowed one hundred taels of silver from the treasury for travel expenses, and I will give you ten taels as a small token of my gratitude for forcing me to come here in the past and for our meeting today."
Upon hearing Jin Gong's words, Huiqing was drenched in sweat and firmly refused to accept the gift. Jin Gong said, "Please do not refuse. It can be returned with interest, just like the Green Sprouts Loan." Lü Huiqing was even more ashamed and had no choice but to accept the gift and reluctantly thanked him. Jin Gong urged the carriage onward, laughing loudly, "Even if you scooped up all the water of the Xiang River, it wouldn't wash away the shame on my face today."
Huiqing, hearing this, regretted his actions and sighed, "I willingly served as a lackey of a powerful minister, and today I am scorned by others. How can I face anyone?" Just then, the coachman, realizing the thieves had dispersed, returned and drove off, complaining that Huiqing had carried too much money and bribes, causing the loss of the carriage, and demanding compensation. Lü Huiqing arrived in Jianzhou, and died of shame and resentment. His family was scattered and their fate unknown. As the saying goes: "
Unable to leave a lasting legacy, only to be remembered with infamy."
Meanwhile, Jin Gong, returning home after more than ten years away, decided to return one last time before taking up his post. He then went to Hangzhou. His family had already informed him of his arrival. Jin Sheng was now fifteen years old. Since the return of Bai Mei Xian, he had not hired a tutor, spending his days and nights discussing literature with Feng Niang, becoming well-versed in the arts. Knowing of Jin Gong's return, they went out of the city to welcome him home. His wife and Feng Niang greeted him and bid him farewell. Xia Xiao also came to pay her respects.
The lady ordered wine to be prepared to welcome her home. When asked about the events of the past few years, Jin Gong sighed, "When I left to become the magistrate of Wujiang, Fengniang was still a child, and Helang was just born. Now one has reached marriageable age, and the other is a grown man. We are both getting old. Time truly flies, and joyful days are few." He then discussed with his wife, "Our child is still young, so we can postpone the opium trade. Our daughter has reached marriageable age; while I am at home, we can arrange a marriage." The lady agreed. She immediately ordered a matchmaker to arrange a marriage between Fengniang and Jin Gong.
From then on, suitors came one after another. Fengniang was renowned for her beauty and talent, but because Jin Gong had offended those in power, no one had proposed to her. Now that Jin Gong had returned with a promotion, who wouldn't covet this beautiful woman? Knowing that suitors had arrived, Fengniang discussed with Xiaxiao, saying, "There are so many suitors. If Father accepts another's proposal, what will become of Baisheng? I can't tell my parents, so I'm in a dilemma. If things don't go my way, how will you repay Baisheng? If you can keep your promise to Baisheng the day after tomorrow, you can express my feelings. I will die without regret." Xiaxiao said, "Miss, why are you in such a hurry? This matter is very easy. Let me go and tell Madam. Tell her about your dream from years ago. Madam knows that the former tutor Baisheng's name matches the dream, and the coral whip is now present. Who else but him would dare to lay down in marriage? Although Miss has no ulterior motives, she has pledged her life to him. If Master wants to take another's proposal now, Miss will only swear by her death. Madam loves Miss very much, and this will surely provoke Master to compromise."
Fengniang was overjoyed and took out the coral whip, handing it to Xiaxiao to hide in his sleeve. Xiaxiao went to Madam's room and saw that Jin Gong was out, with only Jin Sheng sitting beside Madam, chatting idly. Xiaxiao went in and greeted them all. The lady asked, "What brings you here?" Xia Xiao smiled and said, "This humble servant has something to tell you, Madam, but it's not easy to say yet."
The lady also liked Xia Xiao very much, so she said, "What is it? Please speak plainly." Xia Xiao said, "The year before last, Miss often talked about the dream she had. Do you remember it, Madam?" The lady thought for a while and said, "Was it the dream about an old man riding an ox, and a white-browed youth holding a coral whip?" Xia Xiao said, "That's right. Does Madam know who this white-browed youth is?" The lady said, "I don't know. Do you know?" Xia Xiao turned to Jin Sheng and said to the lady, "You can ask the young master to find out."
The lady asked Jin Sheng. Jin Sheng said, "I don't know either." Xia Xiao said, "Young master, do you remember the name of the gentleman who went back this year? Did he have a pen name?" Jin Sheng said, "I saw that he signed all his letters with the name Bai Yin. His friends called him Mei Xian." Xia Xiao said, "So he's called Bai Mei Xian?" Jin Sheng thought for a moment, then clapped his hands and laughed, "The name matches Meng Jing's, that's strange." The lady also nodded in surprise and asked, "But I don't know about the coral whip, what does it mean?" Xia Xiao took out a coral whip from her sleeve and handed it to the lady, saying, "This is the coral whip."
The lady was greatly surprised when she saw it. Jin Sheng also laughed in astonishment. The lady asked, "Where did this come from?" Xia Xiao hurriedly knelt down and said, "This humble servant deserves to die a thousand deaths." The lady quickly helped her up and asked her. Xia Xiao said, “It is Master Bai’s. After I entered the academy, I went out to pick jasmine flowers and saw this whip hanging by the bedside. I also saw that the name matched my dream, so I told Miss about it and advised her to commit to him for life. Now that Miss has received the marriage proposal, she is afraid that Master will arrange another marriage and has repeatedly tried to hang herself. I am terrified and have nowhere to turn, so I risked my life to tell you.” After speaking, she knelt down again. Jin Sheng called her up. The lady said, “Young lady, how could you be so short-sighted? Since the dream foreshadowed a good marriage and it was not a shameful affair, wait for Master to return and explain. The marriage with the Bai family will be settled. Leave the coral whip here. Go and tell Miss.” Jin Sheng also followed Xia Xiao to Feng Niang’s room to tell Feng Niang. Feng Niang then told Xia Xiao that she was allied with him and that she was willing to be his concubine in the future. Jin Sheng also told the lady the details.
When Jin Gong returned, his wife explained his intentions. Jin Gong said, "Old Bai is a loyal and righteous man, and also a descendant of a famous family. His son is also a talented young man. The marriage is very suitable. It's just that he came to propose marriage." His wife said, "We should stop the marriage proposal for now. Even if our daughter is a hundred years old, she will still belong to the Bai family!" Jin Gong then bid farewell to the matchmaker, and the marriage proposals ceased.
Meanwhile, Wan'er, on her journey, was about to reach Xincheng County when she thought, "If I go to propose marriage myself, what if the Jin family doesn't accept the betrothal gifts? I've heard that Minister Wei is a great hero of Hangzhou, and I'm glad I brought gifts for him. I'll ask my master to ask him to propose marriage. It will surely be appropriate." Having made up her mind, she went to the Wei family. Fei Xia,
knowing that it was Mei Xian who had sent her, came out to greet her. Wan'er bowed and said, "I was sent by Minister Bai of Qingzhou to pay my respects to Minister Wei. Because of the long journey, it's inconvenient to present formal gifts, so I'm offering these two items to express my farewell." She then took out a gold fan and an ancient inkstone. He added, "This is for Gentlemen Shen and He. I don't recognize it, so I'll trouble you to have someone deliver it to them." Wei Feixia said, "Thinking of old friends from afar shows how devoted he is to friendship." He then invited Wan'er to stay. Wan'er told Feixia about her intention to propose marriage. Feixia was overjoyed and sent someone to invite Shen and He. They arrived shortly after. Feixia explained that Mei Xian had extended her greetings and proposed marriage. The three friends happily agreed and went together to the Jin family home.
Old Master Jin welcomed them in, and after exchanging greetings, the three said, "We are deeply sorry for not greeting you properly, sir." Old Master Jin politely declined and offered tea. Feixia said, "We have come to ask for your daughter's hand in marriage." Old Master Jin said, "My daughter is already engaged." The three were all surprised. He then asked, "Who is the person seeking your hand in marriage?" Jin Gong hesitated for a moment, then addressed the three men, "Who is the person you three gentlemen are seeking marriage with?" Fei Xia replied, "He is a young prodigy, unparalleled in this age. He once served as a tutor in your household, the son of Imperial Censor Bai, named Yin, also known as the Immortal of Eyebrows." Jin Gong said, "I heard he was a tutor at my residence, but he resigned this year. However, he is in Qingzhou. Why are you three seeking marriage with him?" Fei Xia said, "When Brother Bai was in your household, he formed a sworn brotherhood with me, and now he has sent someone to my residence to make this request." He then showed Jin Gong Bai's betrothal letter. Jin Gong said, "Since you three gentlemen have acted on my behalf, how could I dare refuse? But when will the betrothal ceremony take place?" The three men replied in unison, "Since you have granted our kind promise, we will hold the betrothal ceremony tomorrow."
Jin Gong invited the three men to stay for a small meal. The three men thanked him repeatedly before departing. The three men discussed on the way, "Old Master Jin said his daughter was already betrothed, but then agreed. I wonder what he meant? Let's not worry about it for now; we'll just have the betrothal ceremony tomorrow."
Meanwhile, Master Jin saw the three men off and went inside, saying to his wife, "Today, Wei Feixia, along with He Shengzhi and Shen Yunpeng, came to ask for my daughter's hand in marriage." His wife hurriedly asked, "What happened?" Master Jin said, "I was surprised when he said he was proposing marriage. I could have easily explained it to him, but the three men said that my daughter hasn't been betrothed yet. How could I explain that? Then they said it was the Bai family of Qingzhou who were proposing." His wife quickly asked, "Have you agreed?" Master Jin said, "I have. They will hold the betrothal ceremony tomorrow. These three are quite capable."
Having said this, he took out the betrothal letter from his sleeve and gave it to his wife to hide. He then said to his wife, "Now that the marriage is settled, it should be convenient for both sides. He lives a thousand miles away, and the journey will be difficult for the wedding. I am going to Qingzhou to take up my post; why not send our daughter to his home for the wedding?" His wife was overjoyed and said, "My lord's idea is excellent."
The next day, Wei Feixia put the betrothal gifts in a box and instructed Wan'er to carry them. He himself, along with his two friends Shen and He, went to the Jin family. Jin Gong accepted the betrothal gifts, thanked the three men, and invited them into the inner hall. A lavish banquet had been prepared. Everyone took their seats. Wan'er served them in the outer room. While seated, Jin
Gong explained his intention to send the bride to his post to the three men. The three men were overjoyed. After the banquet, they took their leave, and Wan'er thanked him. Feixia immediately wrote a letter and instructed Wan'er to return first, explaining her acceptance of the betrothal and the intention to send the bride. She was to first prepare for the wedding.
Jin Gong prepared two large boats, packed his belongings, and disembarked with his wife, Feng Niang, Xia Xiao, and Jin Sheng. Hong Ying had already married and taken a new maid named Yu Lan as part of her dowry. Jin Gong ordered the main gate sealed and a notice posted. Only two servants were left to guard the gate. The old servant had died, and the servants entered and exited through the back gate. After everything was arranged, they prepared to set sail. Wei, He, and Shen sent gifts for Tian Ru and congratulatory gifts for Mei Xian, asking Jin Gong to deliver them. Jin Gong accepted them, sent a thank-you note, and then headed towards Qingzhou.
The scenery along the way was dazzling. Upon reaching Qingzhou, a drought struck. He said to Jin Sheng, "I am under imperial command and cannot attend to personal matters first. You can send Feng Jie there, and then come to the city." They then split into two groups: Jin Gong and Madam Hu went to Qingzhou, while Jin Sheng, Feng Niang, Xia Xiao, and Yu Lan went to the Bai family. The farewell was filled with unspeakable sorrow.
The Bai family, having learned of the situation, dispatched four brocade-draped carriages and a fine horse. They arrived at Liuyin Village and were already waiting at the gate. Bai Gong presented the horse as a sacrifice. The matron helped the two beauties out of the carriages and into the hall. The man and two women bowed to Heaven and Earth, and then to Bai Gong and his wife. They went into the room and drank from the nuptial cup. After all the rites were completed, Bai Gong and Mei Xian came out to welcome Jin Sheng inside, and they also exchanged greetings. The matron then led Yu Lan to pay her respects. A feast was set up in the hall, decorated with colorful lanterns, and everyone sat down to drink. The servants were all rewarded and left. Although Jin Sheng and Mei Xian were the groom's brother-in-law, they were actually old teacher and student, and they were very happy to see each other, drinking to their hearts' content. Jin Sheng was then allowed to stay overnight in the outer wing.
After everything was finished, Mei Xian went into the room to renew the rites with Feng Niang and Xia Xiao, sitting by the lamp and reminiscing. Fengniang took out the coral whip and returned it to Meixian, saying, "Today, the two pearls have returned to Hepu; it is truly a great fortune." Meixian also took out the amber ring and returned it to Fengniang, saying, "After years of longing, today we are finally united." They chatted and laughed for a while, and the three of them slept together, while Yulan slept in the outer room. That night:
The hibiscus quilt was warm, and the jade water clock stopped its urging.
The Cloud and Rain Terrace was completed, and their eternal vows were sealed.
After their marriage, the affection between the three of them was self-evident. Bai Gong and his wife were also overjoyed to see the beauty and virtue of their two daughters-in-law. Jinsheng stayed for several days before bidding farewell and going to Qingzhou.
One day, Fengniang mentioned that Wei Feixia, He Shengzhi, and Shen Yunpeng had proposed to her. Before leaving, she added to her dowry and presented a congratulatory gift to Meixian. Meixian sighed, "We met once, yet you have already shown your love; you are truly chivalrous heroes of this world." Then, thinking of her two friends, Yuan Jianlu and Fang Duanru, she couldn't help but shed tears. Fengniang asked, "What sorrows cause you to weep?" Meixian recounted the entire story of their escape years ago, including the details of
how Yuan Jianlu and Fang Duanru searched for her separately, yet she had not returned. The three of them sighed deeply. However, they didn't know what had become of Yuan Jianlu's search for Meixian on the northern route. To be continued in the
next chapter. Chapter Twelve: Intercepting the Ferry, Winning Funds, Reaching the Other Shore, Dividing the Estate, Marrying, and Resuming the Marriage .
The poem reads:
Peach blossoms dot the mountain rain, willows green on the water's surface.
Spring's beauty evokes sorrow, I write my longing on brocade paper.
A parrot calls from the small window, heralding spring dreams; a wine pot is raised in the fragrant cupboard, hastening the time for intoxication.
Half of a hundred years have passed in sorrow, I often drink from a jade cup before the flowers. Now,
let's talk about Yuan Jianlu and Liu Zhao, who traveled north to find Meixian. They ate and drank as they went, sleeping at night and traveling by day, searching east and west, but found no trace of her for nearly three years. In desperation, they had to consult the gods and divine the future. Some said they couldn't find him, some said they'd encountered him right now, and some said they'd find him naturally if they went further north. The two men listened, puzzled and undecided. Liu Zhao said, "We've searched here for a long time without success; let's cross the Yellow River and see." The two men escorted him across the Yellow River, passing through several prefectures and counties, but to no avail.
Yuan Jianlu, finding no other way to find him, devised a plan. He bought a four- or five-foot-long piece of white cloth, wrote the immortal's face and hometown on it, and hung it on a bamboo pole, having Liu Zhao fan it as they searched everywhere, but to no avail. Jianlu then thought of another plan; he composed a folk song and had Liu Zhao sing it: "White-browed Immortal, White-browed Immortal, nowhere to be found. If anyone knows, tell us, and we'll reward them with thirty strings of cash. We'll keep our word; the cash is with us now." Liu Zhao walked along, reciting the song, calling out to search for him for ten days in each prefecture, five days in each county, and three days in each village. From then on, children who heard this were terrified and laughed, and, following Liu Zhao's advice, often sang and recited it.
Yuan Jianlu thought, "If the ballad spreads, perhaps the fairy will know the news," but to his surprise, there was no news. One day, the two searched in a village, calling for two days, and had no choice but to continue on. After crossing several miles of wasteland, they saw a river ahead, two or three miles wide, with no boats passing by. The two stood and waited for half a day, when they saw a person walking on the main road. Liu Zhao asked, "What is the name of this river? Where is this place? Is there a ferry?"
The man replied, "This is Puyuan County, Lintao Prefecture. This river was formerly called Cangjin, but it has been renamed Jiedu." Yuan Jianlu asked, "Why was it renamed?" The man said, "There is a ferry about two miles away by a side road. The two brothers who run the ferry are called Qiangyu and Rongwei, respectively, and they are extremely fierce. They charge one tael of silver for each person they ferry. If you pay less than the amount due, you will not be allowed to go ashore until you pay the full amount; if you do not pay the full amount, the ferry will be pulled to the side, and you will fall into the water and die. Therefore, it has been renamed Jiedu."
Liu Zhao asked, "Why doesn't the government punish him? Is there no other ferry?" The man replied, "He charges several dozen taels of silver for the ferry every day. He regularly gives this to the government. Who in the government dares to punish him? Several ferries have been intercepted and sunk by him. Seeing his ferocity, who dares to argue with him?" Yuan Jianlu said, "In this peaceful world, demons and clowns dare to act so violently; isn't that infuriating?" Liu Zhao said, "Let's go and ask him to take us across, and see what he does."
So they thanked the man and came by a side path. They saw a ferry moored on the shore. Several people were sitting in the cabin. One person at the bow was leaning against the river with a pole. Another person at the stern was lying across the deck. Liu Zhao said, "These two men look fierce; they must be the Qiang brothers." Liu Zhao put down his cloth pole and baggage by the roadside, told Yuan Jianlu to guard them, and walked to the boat. He stepped off and said, "Hurry up and ferry me across." A man on the bow shouted, "You damned barbarian! Don't you know our master's rules? You didn't even offer a ferry fee, yet you dared to disembark on our master's boat!"
Liu Zhao stopped, opened his eyes wide, and shouted, "If you want a ferry fee, I'll give you a few coins. Why are you cursing?" The people on the boat laughed and said, "You're from afar; don't you know that the one on the stern is Master Qiang, and the one on the bow is Master Qiang the Second? There's a rule: first give one tael of silver, then board..." "Boat." One of them pointed at Yuan Jianlu and said, "Is that one with you?" Liu Zhao said, "That's right." The crowd said, "Master Qiang, for the sake of us, these two who came from afar should at least give us a tael of silver, right?" Qiang Er said, "Don't pay any attention to this fellow. He won't even give us a tael and nine mace and nine fen." Liu Zhao said, "Bullshit! I've traveled all over the world, where have I ever seen a ferryman charge a tael of silver? If I asked your captain, would it cost several thousand? We'll only give you two mace of silver, and we'll insist on you ferry us across. Let's see what you can do to me!"
Seeing that Liu Zhao's words were rude and his appearance unusual, Qiang Er wasn't particularly fierce. Qiang Da said, "I won't argue with you, you barbarian donkey. I only have two taels of silver to ferry you two across. If you don't have the silver, please stand on the shore. Do you think you can fly across?" This one sentence hit Liu Zhao where it hurt. He feigned slowness and said, "If I fly across, what will you do?"
Erqiang, knowing he couldn't fly, loudly proclaimed, "If you fly across, I'll give you all the ferry money in the boat, and from now on, it'll only cost one coin per ferry." Liu Zhao asked, "How much ferry money do you have today?" Qiangda replied, "I ferry three times a day, ten people at a time. This is the third ferry, and there are seven people in the boat. One tael per person." Liu Zhao said, "Don't go back on your word!"
The people in the boat, hearing that if he flew across, it would only cost one coin per ferry from now on, all said in unison, "We all guarantee that Master Qiangda will not go back on his word." Qiangda said, "If you can't fly across, what will you lose to me?" Liu Zhao said, "If I can't fly across, I'll give you all the luggage and travel expenses. If I do fly across, you'll have to bring that gentleman and his luggage." The others said again, "This is a small matter, no need to discuss it." Liu Zhao was overjoyed, went to Yuan Jianlu, and explained his intentions. He tightened his clothes and held the cloth pole in his hand. Looking at the river, it was about a mile wide. Then he shouted, "Open your eyes and look!" Everyone looked up.
Liu Zhao leaped with all his might, several feet high, then, using the cloth pole as a horizontal bar, he tilted his body to the side and stood upright on the cliff. Everyone clapped their hands on their foreheads and said, "Truly a god!" They then kowtowed and worshipped from the boat. Er Qiang was so frightened that he collapsed.
Liu Zhao laughed loudly from the opposite bank and shouted, "Quickly bring my Master Yuan over!" The crowd, without letting Er Qiang have a say, actually asked Yuan Jianlu to get off the boat and carried his luggage for him. Some poled, some rowed, and in no time, they helped Jianlu onto the cliff. Liu Zhao ran off the boat and said, "Now you can return the money to the master."
Er Qiang had no choice but to struggle to his feet, go to the stern, and bundle the ferries money into a bag, which he handed to Liu Zhao with both hands. Liu Zhao grabbed a handful and said to the crowd, "I suppose your ferries money is in there too, so I'm returning it to you." The crowd was overjoyed, and they also went ashore to thank him and asked the two men their names. Liu Zhao said, "That gentleman's surname is Yuan, and his given name is Jianlu. My surname is Liu, and my given name is Zhao. My nickname in the martial arts world is 'Black Flying God.'" Everyone nodded and said, "He is indeed Master Black Flying God." After saying this, they dispersed. Erqiang, who was on the boat, also remembered Liu Zhao's name, but he regretted his slip of the tongue and had no choice but to row away.
Liu Zhao hid the silver beside him and said to Yuan Jianlu, "We are very lucky. We were just running out of travel expenses when we got this windfall." Yuan Jianlu asked, "Why did you carry a cloth pole with you when you were going to jump?" Liu Zhao replied, "The cloth is four or five feet long. When I jump, the wind blows through it, so I can only go up and not down, which is not very helpful. The river is about a mile wide, so I can jump really high. When I take off with the wind, I can reach the other side and earn my money." Yuan Jianlu sighed and said, "No wonder you rescued Bai Gong from prison so easily. You are truly an extraordinary person." Liu Jian, still carrying his bag and waving the cloth pole, went off to look for Mei Xian.
Now, Fang Duanru rode the donkey given to him by Bai Gong northwards to search for Yuan and Liu. He searched for over a year without any news, so he crossed the Yellow River and passed through several prefectures and counties. On the road, he heard children singing a folk song about searching for the White-Eyebrowed Immortal. He asked a local, "Who wrote this song?" The person replied, "It was two people from another place who couldn't find the White-Eyebrowed Immortal. They tied a cloth to a bamboo pole and sang this song. The children heard it and learned to sing it for fun." Duanru was delighted that the two had been found, so he asked everyone along the way, "Where did they go, carrying a cloth pole and calling out to find people?" People said they went that way. He followed, but they still couldn't find them. He asked again, and they said they went that way again. He continued his search until he reached the Cangjin River.
Wanting to cross, he found that because he had a donkey, the fare was three qian of silver. Duanru said, "Why so much?" The people on the boat said, "If you had come the other day, it would have cost three liang." Duanru asked why. The boatman said, "A man carrying a cloth pole has been flying across the river. The betting odds have been reduced to one coin per crossing." Duanru recognized him as Liu Zhao, so he gave him three coins, led his donkey off the boat, and hurriedly urged him to cross. Erqiang asked, "Sir, what urgent matter is this? Why are you in such a hurry?" Duanru replied, "I need to find the cloth pole to call out to someone I'm looking for." The boatman said, "The one who flew across the river the other day is him." Erqiang asked, "Do you know his name?" Duanru replied, "If you're looking for him, how could I not know? One is surnamed Yuan, styled Jianlu, and the other is surnamed Liu, named Zhao." Erqiang asked, "Do you know his nickname?" Duanru replied, "His nickname is Black Flying God." Erqiang said, "Since you're looking for him, take him across." He then returned the three coins and set sail.
A short while later, they reached the shore. Duanru thanked him and led his donkey up the bank. Thinking to himself, "Alright, the ferryman didn't charge me, and the two of them seem like they've found someone." He hurried on, traveling about several dozen miles, when he heard a man by the roadside say, "Why was that man shouting and looking for someone with a cloth pole?" Duanru quickly asked, "Where is the person he's looking for?" The man replied, "In the village ahead."
Hearing this, Duanru spurred his donkey and galloped closer. He then heard Liu Zhao singing a folk song. Duanru responded and sang, "White-browed Immortal, White-browed Immortal, I found you on the south road first. Now I've found you again, no need to pay thirty strings of cash. I'm overjoyed, the two of you stay ahead."
Yuan Jianlu and Liu Zhao heard the song being sung behind them, thinking it was just children imitating him. But then they saw the song changed, and Yuan Jianlu turned around and recognized Fang Duanru. Duanru jumped off his donkey and came over. Jianlu quickly bowed and asked, "Brother Fang, what brings you here?" Liu Zhao also bowed and asked in surprise.
Fang Duanru then explained that he had found the White-browed Immortal and had now come north to search for him. Yuan Jianlu said, "If you hadn't come, we would have searched for a century and still not know Brother Bai was at home." The three then turned back together. On the way, they asked Fang Duanru why they had searched all this way. Fang Duanru then recounted the nursery rhyme and how crossing the river didn't require silver. The three laughed heartily.
Returning to the ferry, Liu Zhao called out, "You can ferry us across; I'll give you three coins of silver, so I don't have to fly back." Seeing it was Liu Zhao, Erqiang had no choice but to row the boat across. The three disembarked together and rowed to the shore. Liu Zhao took out two coins from his waist and gave them to Erqiang. Erqiang dared not accept them. Liu Zhao said, "It's said since ancient times that even emperors don't use people for free; how can this be?" He then went ashore and threw the silver into the boat.
The three continued on their way. Liu Zhao said, "Now that we don't need to find Master Bai, nor do we need to fly across the river, what use is this cloth pole?" He then threw the cloth pole into the Cangjin River. Duanru rode a donkey, while Jianlu and Liu Zhao each hired livestock, and they sped home. Before long, they arrived at Le'an County.
The three went straight to the Bai family's house in Liuyin Village. They found a feast laid out in the hall, bustling with activity. Just as they were wondering what was going on, Mei Xian came out from inside. Duanru said, "Brother Bai, have you prepared a feast for the three of us to welcome
us?" Mei Xian looked up and saw them, quickly bowing in greeting, and pointed to Liu Zhao, asking, "Is this the righteous Liu?" Liu Zhao bowed forward. Mei Xian quickly returned the bow, helped them up, and helped his two friends to sit, gesturing for Liu Zhao to sit as well. Liu Zhao said, "I'll go in and see the master and mistress first," and then went inside.
Mei Xian inquired about the details of his two friends' journey north. Each friend recounted their past in detail, and Mei Xian thanked them profusely. Just then, a young man emerged from within, greeted the two, and sat down with them. Fang Duanru looked closely and recognized him as Jin Sheng, then asked Mei Xian, "Why has your esteemed disciple come here?" Mei Xian smiled and replied, "He was my junior disciple before, and now he is my brother-in-law." Fang Duanru nodded, recalling the past.
Yuan Jianlu, bewildered, asked Duanru. Duanru recounted the events. Jianlu said, "Only today do I understand the reason for Brother Bai's departure." Duanru then asked, "When was Brother Bai's engagement?" Mei Xian replied, "It was after you went north that the engagement was completed, and you were happily married last year." He then sighed, "I am at peace at home, while you two are suffering abroad; how can I atone for this sin?" The two friends then asked, "Why is there a banquet today?" Mei Xian replied, "The other day I acquired a jade pendant, and today we are having a soup and cake feast, hence the invitation for my brother-in-law." The two friends offered their congratulations repeatedly.
Knowing his two friends had returned, Bai Gong came out to express his gratitude. The two friends said, "Uncle, you've already planted fragrant orchids; your nephews have failed to offer their congratulations." Bai Gong replied, "I am deeply ashamed. You two have endured many hardships, and I have yet to repay your kindness. This feast is a great honor." He then invited the two friends to join him at the table, and also ordered Liu Zhao to join them. With Jin Sheng and Bai Gong and his son, there were six people in total. They drank merrily and became quite drunk. The two friends
saw them off for the night. The next day, the two friends took their leave. Bai Gong, having nothing to offer in return for their kindness, gave them half of his four pairs of red jade cups, and also gave each of them a copy of Bai Juyi's manuscript. Mei Xian also gave each of them four bolts of brocade, a sable coat, and a piece of mutton-fat jade inkstone, saying, "Wealth is not what I value; I dare not give you these small gifts, only to express my humble sentiments." She placed them in boxes and instructed Wan'er to deliver them.
The two friends dared not refuse and thanked him repeatedly. Before parting, the two friends said, "Brother Bai, we will offer our congratulations on the birth of your son another day." Bai Gong, along with Mei Xian and Jin Sheng, saw him off at the door. Duan Ru, seeing the donkey tied to a tree in the corner, said to Bai Gong, "The fine donkey you gave me, sir, is of no use to me now. Please keep it as a gift." They thanked each other and parted.
Bai Gong then said to Mei Xian, "How can I repay Liu Zhao for his hard work? He came to me to borrow money to marry, saving me from the brink of death. I intend to marry him to fulfill his long-cherished wish." Mei Xian said, "If you want to marry him, you can buy him a house to live in and give him several acres of land, then you can settle his life's affairs."
Bai Gong then built several houses near his residence, provided him with household items, and arranged for him to live there. He then arranged for a matchmaker to marry a newly widowed woman named Zhang Min, nearly forty years old, to Liu Zhao. He also gave him ten acres of land and two acres of vegetable garden to cultivate and use. Liu Zhao was overwhelmed with gratitude and burned incense daily, praying for the Bai family.
Whether the son of the White-Eyebrowed Immortal was born to Feng Niang or Xia Xiao remains to be seen. To find out, please read the next chapter.
Chapter Thirteen: Recommending an Old Friend, Drafting a Memorial, Presenting a Memorial, and Inscribing a Famous Stone.
The poem reads: "
The daytime is spent with pen and ink, occasionally I find pleasure at Songguan.
The autumn sounds are endless, the leaves rustling, the evening scenery is fading, the mountains are faint.
The insects chirp in the cold vegetarian room, the monks are at peace, the moss grows wild in the deep courtyard, the guests are always idle.
Knowing that my life is all an illusion, do not laugh at my graying temples in the west wind.
" Now, let's talk about who the son of the White-Eyebrowed Immortal was born to. After Feng Niang and Xia Xiao married, they both became pregnant. Feng Niang gave birth to a son, whose nickname was Qiong Lang. She sent someone to Qingzhou to inform Lord Jin. Lord Jin then sent Jin Sheng to inquire. At that time, a soup dumpling party was being held, and Fang Duanru, Yuan Jianlu, and Liu Zhao were returning north, so they joined in the singing and dancing. Jin Sheng stayed, waiting until the baby's one-month celebration before returning home.
More than twenty days later, Xia Xiao also gave birth to a son. Mr. and Mrs. Bai were overjoyed with Mei Xian and chose the nickname Yao Lang for her. They also held a soup dumpling party, coinciding with Qiong Lang's one-month celebration, achieving two goals at once. They then held a grand banquet and sent people to invite Yuan Jianlu, Fang Duanru, and other relatives to the soup dumpling party. None of the relatives could attend. Yuan and Fang, upon learning that Mei Xian had given birth to another son, were overjoyed and came to the Bai family home to congratulate Mei Xian, saying, "You have planted two laurels in succession, a rare joy in the world. We two have nothing to offer in return, only to celebrate this auspicious birth." Mei Xian also expressed her gratitude. Mr. Bai and Jin Sheng came out to greet them.
Just then, Liu Zhao entered from outside, greeting them respectfully. The two friends asked where he had come from. Liu Zhao replied, "I came from home. My master summoned me, but I didn't know why, so I came to see him." The two friends said, "You're here, so why do you say you came from home?" Liu Zhao then recounted in detail the story of Mr. Bai's division of the estate and his marriage. The two friends sighed, "Today, all evil has been eradicated, all good deeds have been accomplished, and we also have the joy of a son. All the joys and sorrows, the partings and reunions, are now over." They laughed and chatted for a while.
It was March, the garden flowers were in full bloom, and a hundred birds sang their spring songs. Mei Xian led the two friends and Jin Sheng to wander around. They saw tender grass growing beside the Ruyi Stone, and the stone drum mound covered in moss and snail droppings. Mei Xian sighed, "Back then, my two brothers and I enjoyed watching the snow, and we lit a fire on this drum mound. The things remain the same, but time has changed so much." The two friends said, "Thinking back on this, more than ten years have passed; it feels like a dream." They were all melancholy.
A short while later, a family member came to invite them to sit down. Mei Xian said, "The weather is fine, and the flowers and birds are in full bloom. Why not have some fun on the stone?" The three happily agreed and ordered their seats to be moved to the stone. Bai Gong also came out. Mei Xian said, "Can we call Old Liu out?" Bai Gong said, "He went inside and got drunk and went back." "The five men sat on the rocks, drinking and enjoying themselves. The two friends parted at dusk. Jin Sheng stayed for several more days before bidding farewell and returning to Qingzhou. He told Jin Gong that Xia Xiao had also had a son. Madam Hu sent someone to inquire about him.
That year, during the provincial examination, Jin Sheng surprisingly passed despite being from Qingzhou. Since the people of Shandong were not particularly skilled in literature, the examiners only considered a few points. However, seeing that Jin Sheng's writing was eloquent and exceptionally brilliant, they placed him in a high rank. After the examination, he visited Bai's house, partly to thank him for his teachings and partly to visit relatives. From then on, they frequently visited each other. After
Jin Gong completed his three-year term, he was promoted to Pacification Commissioner of Hebei. The people, because of Jin Gong's benevolence and kindness, were reluctant to see him go and petitioned to stay. The court approved his petition, and he was reinstated for another three years, with an additional 300 shi of grain and 300 guan of silver per year. From then on, Jin Gong remained in Qingzhou. Now, let's talk
about Bao Lifei, the former magistrate of Le'an County. After Bai Gong was arrested, he saw powerful ministers in power and new laws being implemented." The court was rife with corruption, loyal officials were demoted, and sycophants filled the court, so he resigned and left. Later, the Imperial Guard, after arresting Mei Xian, saw the memorial tablets and destroyed them all. He returned to the capital and instigated Lü Huiqing and Wang Pang to arrest and punish Bao Gong. The two traitors, seeing that the matter involved the hidden secrets and not knowing Bao Gong's whereabouts, let it go. Bao Gong thus escaped disaster. Now he has returned to officialdom and has been promoted to Vice Minister of the Court of Imperial Sacrifices. Thinking that Bai Gong had been arrested and was now at home, he heard that the Imperial Guard had destroyed the memorial tablets and felt great pity, wanting to recommend Bai Gong for officialdom. Through a conversation during a relocation, he knew Bai Gong's character and thought that Bai Gong had a son who was just over twenty when he last met him. Now he could recommend him to the court so that he could be appointed to an official position, thus fulfilling their old friendship. So he wrote a letter and sent it to Bai Gong.
The man arrived in Le'an County, inquired about the facts, and found that he had come to Liuyin Village and arrived at the Bai family's hall. The family members announced that Bai Gong had come out of the hall. The man kowtowed and said, "I am sent by Master Bao from the capital." "Bai Gong, recognizing Bao Lifei, asked in return, 'What official position does Master Bao hold now?' The man replied, 'I am currently the Vice Minister of the Court of Imperial Sacrifices. I have sent this humble servant to deliver a letter to you, sir.' He then took out the letter from his pouch and handed it to Bai Gong. A servant took it and gave it to Bai Gong. Bai Gong ordered his servants to prepare wine and food to entertain the man, and
then went inside. Upon opening the letter, he read: 'Your younger brother, Bao Long, respectfully writes to Your Excellency, esteemed Master Bai. Since Your Excellency suffered an unjust calamity, I have been filled with resentment and had nowhere to turn, but I was powerless to help. Therefore, I resigned my post and left this world. Fortunately, the wicked have been silenced, and the Way has been restored. Your Excellency and I are both at peace, all thanks to the spirits of our ancestors in heaven. Now, everyone is united in their efforts to rectify the situation, and the court is restored to order. Talented and virtuous men are flocking to the court, filling its halls and palaces. I humbly recall that Your Excellency retired in your prime, surely not seeking glory until old age.'" But your son, a young man of letters, how can he be content to remain a humble cricket? If he could serve with unwavering loyalty, what shame would he have in enjoying high office? I dream of you, but my thoughts are as fleeting as a letter from afar. Your son is so ambitious, yet he is destined for high office. I only hope that your wise counsel, sir, will offer some solace, for I have no place to vent my frustrations. This is written in cursive script, and is not respectful. This is my declaration.”
After reading this, Bai Gong called to Mei Xian and asked, “Lord Bao recommended you to resign. What do you think?” Mei Xian replied, “Lord Bao is fond of recommending me for office, but I am of humble nature and have no ambition for officialdom. Moreover, my father holds a high position, yet he cannot fulfill his ambitions and has instead suffered humiliation and exile. If I were to take on this honor, it would be like riding a tiger, as my father said. Besides, both my parents are nearing seventy. Even if they were still in office, they would have to resign to care for their parents. How could I abandon my aging parents for fame and fortune?” "
Bai Gong nodded in agreement, then wrote a reply, went out of the hall, and handed it to the messenger, saying, 'Please convey my regards to Master Bao, telling him that I have not yet had the chance to congratulate him on his promotion, and that the journey is too long for me to personally deliver the gift. I am sending this letter for you to take with you. Three taels of silver are for your travel expenses.' The man dared not accept it, declined politely for a while, but finally accepted it, kowtowed in thanks, and left.
Upon returning to the capital, he reported to Master Bao and presented Bai Gong's reply. Master Bao dismissed the man, then opened Bai Gong's reply and read:"
"Your younger brother, Bai Rang, bows again and writes to Your Excellency, esteemed Mr. Bao: Since our parting at the prison, I have felt like a wild goose lost its mate, pitifully left to languish in the netherworld. Fortunately, I rose from the ashes at Hulao Pass and found a life of fishing and woodcutting in the waters, wandering for over ten years, living in peace and contentment. Now, Your Excellency has been promoted to a high-ranking position, and my father and I are merely unable to offer our humble congratulations. We are also deeply grateful for Your Excellency's favor, extending to my humble servant, Xiao Chu. I only regret that my old age and gray hair cannot repay such a great kindness. Although serving as a teacher and rising to high office is the long-cherished wish of every scholar, my talents are insufficient for the high-ranking officials of this era. Moreover, I am of humble and simple nature, unable to fulfill your expectations, and being old and destitute, my desire for officialdom remains unfulfilled." "I wish to resign and return home to care for my elderly parents. How could I abandon them and be consumed by ambition and fame? This sentiment is quite valid. Therefore, although I cannot receive the imperial edict upon receiving the news of your victory, I still yearn to meet you, sir, during your leisure time. This is but a draft, offered as a small
token of my gratitude. I beg your understanding that it should not be published." Upon reading it, Lord Bao slapped the table in praise, saying, "Father and son, living in seclusion, truly recluses. They have fulfilled their long-cherished wish. However, the memorial tablet I erected is now destroyed. What a pity! I will now convey this to the authorities, so that the old tablet can be re-erected, and another memorial tablet can be built for them, to show that the two generations have lived in seclusion, so that future generations may admire them, and thus complete our friendship." He then wrote to the Prime Minister.
At that time, Lord Lü was serving as the Chancellor. Upon seeing Lord Bao's letter, he gladly agreed. He then reported to Emperor Zhezong, who then issued a decree ordering the prefecture and county to build a memorial tablet, and also granted a acre of charitable land, exempting three generations from corvée labor. All of this was due to Lord Lü's intention to cherish the virtuous and for this grand undertaking. He then personally wrote the four characters "Le Tian Shi Yi" (meaning "Enjoying a Leisurely and Contented Life") and presented them to Bao Gong, instructing him to make a plaque for Bai Gong. Bao Gong repeatedly expressed his gratitude. Because Bai Gong's letter hinted at a meeting, he kept the four characters and promised to personally deliver them to Bai's family after his term of office was over. He also wrote to the Prefect of Qingzhou and the Magistrate of Le'an County, requesting that they build a memorial tablet for the Bai family and pay close attention to it.
At this time, the Prefect of Qingzhou was Jin Gong, who had been reinstated. The Magistrate, surnamed He, was a former student of Bao Gong. Upon seeing the letter, he knew that he and Bai Gong were close relatives and needed no further explanation; Magistrate He, seeing that it was an imperial decree, a request from Bao Gong's teacher, and a close relative of the Prefect, was even more eager to serve. He ordered the local officials to summon dozens of craftsmen to rebuild the old memorial archway. Half a mile ahead, a new memorial archway was built for Meixian. A main road was opened in the middle, paved with bluestone, and planted with elm and willow trees. The old pavilion was also rebuilt, the stone tablet was erected, and a new pavilion was built opposite it. The construction was magnificent, and a stone tablet was erected, with the inscription written by Magistrate He. Three locust trees were planted in front of each pavilion for good fortune. Construction took more than two months, and the craftsmen completed the work. The plaque left by Bao Gong in seclusion was cleaned and placed on the old archway. Magistrate He personally wrote the four characters "Qing Shi Yi Min" (meaning "Recluse of a Pure Era") and placed it on the new archway. He also wrote a plaque with the four characters "Fu Yin Zi Yi" (meaning "Father in Seclusion, Son in Leisure") and sent it to the Bai family. From the new archway to the Bai family, the entire route was decorated with colorful banners. Magistrate He ordered musicians to play music and wear red ribbons, and had the plaque carried by four men while he personally delivered it on horseback.
Bai Gong and his son came out of the steps to greet him respectfully, exchanged greetings, and expressed their gratitude. The plaque was then placed in the central hall, forming a pair with the plaque of Bao Gong in seclusion. A banquet was prepared to entertain Magistrate He, and the yamen runners were all rewarded accordingly. Magistrate He thanked them and took his leave. Later, rows of elm and willow trees grew, and travelers would rest in these two pavilions, thus establishing a lasting legacy.
One day, Mei Xian told Bai Gong, "In the past, on a whim to enjoy the snow, I took my two friends, Yuan and Fang, to see the plum blossoms south of the fort. In the woods, we met an old man riding a yellow ox. He asked us our surnames, and we told him. He told me that these two friends were trusted by the future emperor. The two friends had traveled north and south for several years, and the emperor's words had come true. I asked him his surname. He said he had no surname, that he had served as an official in the previous dynasty, and that he had later followed Chen Xiyi into the mountains to cultivate himself, calling himself Huangdu Ke (Yellow Ox Guest)."
Upon hearing this, Bai Gong said, "So he is an immortal. Why not seek him out?" Mei Xian said, "I..." I begged him for guidance. He said I was not an immortal, so what guidance could I offer? I pleaded repeatedly. He said I was skilled in poetry and gave me several lines. The first line was: "Riding a small boat, I invite flying immortals to travel." These two lines alluded to my father's ordeal. Bai Gong nodded and said, "How strange! How strange! Is there anything else?" Mei Xian said, "There is also: 'Birds roost on trees by the pond, a monk knocks on the moonlit gate.' These two lines alluded to my lodging at Muyun Nunnery, which I had already told my father. And there is: 'Remembering the flute on Phoenix Terrace,' which alluded to my marriage."
Bai Gong nodded repeatedly in amazement. Mei Xian said, "The last line says, 'Yang Zi shed tears at the monument back then.' This must be related to the rebuilding of the monument today. The joys and sorrows of the whole family are all contained in a few words, and now it has all come true. When the old man left, he also gave me the coral whip hanging on the ox horn, saying that it would be useful in the future. I fled, and indeed I relied on this whip, and now I am about to be engaged. Doesn't this also prove that his words about it being useful in the future are true? I always thought that heavenly secrets could not be revealed in advance, so I did not tell my father. Now I am testing the past, and it is clear before my eyes. But when he left, he said that we would meet again. I don't know when we will meet again?" Bai Gong said, "So my suffering of wandering was also preordained. Today my career is complete, and I can only enjoy my grandchildren and be happy in my old age."
Mei Xian then told Feng Niang and Xia Xiao about the matter. The two were startled and said, "How could we forget? We didn't tell you! Years ago, we were admiring lotus blossoms and resting on a rock in Taihu Lake when we had a dream. In the dream, we saw an old man riding an ox, with a white-browed boy, each holding a coral whip. The old man said to us, 'Miss, the person you will become when you grow up like a vine clinging to a tall tree.' Then he turned to the boy and said, 'You can give this whip to Miss.' The boy came closer and gave me the coral whip. It turns out the old man was the immortal master. And the white-browed boy was you."
Mei Xian sighed, "As they say, marriage is preordained." Feng Niang said, "You can take a copy of the 'Coral Whip Collection' that you gave me when you returned home." So she took it back to Mei Xian. Mei Xian also returned the white jade hairpin to Feng Niang. From then on, the family lived in peace and happiness. Now
, let's talk about how, after Bao Gong and Bai Shi rebuilt the memorial tablet, more than a year later, he passed the imperial examination and became a third-rank official in the Secretariat-Chancellery. Bao Gong said, "I am nearly sixty years old. What use is there for me to still be concerned with official titles? Besides, I have already repaid my debt of gratitude to the Bai family. What more could I hope for? I would rather enjoy my twilight years." He then submitted a memorial to resign, but it was not permitted. He submitted the memorial three times, and finally, he was granted the title of Right Grand Counselor and allowed to retire. Bao Gong was overjoyed and knelt before the palace to express his gratitude. He was originally from Bianjing (Kaifeng). When he returned home, many officials came to congratulate him. After several busy days, he finished all his business and thought that he had not yet sent the four characters "Le Tian Shi Yi" (meaning "Enjoying Life in a Leisurely World") written by Lü Gongzhu to the Bai family. So he packed his bags and headed to Shandong. He traveled for a while, but we will not go into details
about the journey. When he arrived in Le'an County, Magistrate He came out of the city to greet him and led him to the government office. After exchanging pleasantries, he inquired about Bao Gong's purpose. He explained in detail his intention to send the plaque. Magistrate He then ordered his servants to repair the four characters written by Lü Gongzhu into a plaque, which was extremely beautiful. He placed it in the county hall and invited Bao Gong to see it. Master Bao was overjoyed and said, "My esteemed friend has greatly embellished this old man's work." Magistrate He replied, "This is merely the duty of a student; there's no need for my venerable teacher to repeatedly express his concern." He then kept Master Bao for several more days. Master Bao was determined to depart, so Magistrate He sent several servants to carry the plaque from Master Bao to the Bai family.
Passersby, seeing that it was the calligraphy of the current prime minister, repaired by the magistrate, and presented by a retired minister, all considered it an honor. When Master Bao arrived at the archway, he saw that its magnificent scale was vastly different from what had been built before, and he was overjoyed.
How the Bai family would greet him upon its arrival remains to be seen; we'll find out in the next chapter.
Chapter Fourteen: A Double Marriage, A Friendship in Harmony, Inscription on the Plaque to Thank the Emperor's Grace .
The poem reads:
Most delightful is the invitation after the rain, the spring in the southern garden borrows the cold blossoms. Don't
mind the slippery moss on my shoes, the gentle sound of bamboo rustling at the door.
Cranes bathe in the square pond, offering their carefree cries; the pen cultivates the land, concealing fame.
Unwilling to accept the imperial decree, my beard grows old; let me instead raise a clear cup to the chrysanthemums.
Now, when Bai Gong learned of Bao Gong's arrival, he sent someone to fetch him en route, while he and Mei Xian greeted him respectfully at the gate. Upon entering the hall, they exchanged greetings. Bao Gong said, "Since our parting at the city corner, several years have passed. Today, we reunite, a joyous occasion." Bai Gong replied, "We are deeply grateful for Xi Hua's order to build this pavilion and plaque. What virtue or ability do my father and I possess that warrants such esteemed favor from you, sir?" They then reminisced about the past.
A short while later, the plaque arrived. Bao Gong said, "This plaque was presented by the late Prime Minister Lü, a high-ranking official of the current dynasty. We humbly request that it be prominently displayed to commemorate this great recluse." Bai Gong and Mei Xian thanked him again, and then took the plaque from Bao Gong, along with the one from Magistrate He, and hung them in a side room of the hall, while Lü Gong's plaque was hung in the central hall. The servants, each with their assigned tasks, departed. Bao Gong was then invited to a seat. The next day, a banquet was held, and a messenger was sent to invite Yuan Jianlu and Fang Duanru to join the festivities. The two friends arrived, exchanged greetings, and chatted for a while. Seeing the inscription hanging high, they inquired about its origin. Bai Gong replied, "This was a gift from Mr. Bao." The two friends then thanked Mr. Bao.
Soon, the feast was ready. Bai Gong invited Mr. Bao to take the seat of honor, but Bao politely declined. The two friends, Yuan and Fang, said, "Mr. Bao, there's no need for you to refuse. How could we, as juniors, presume to sit here?" Mr. Bao then sat down. The two friends sat in order, with Bai Gong opposite them, and Mei Xian accompanying them at the other table. After several rounds of drinks, they recounted their past experiences in detail. Bai Gong said, "I am deeply grateful for the kindness and support of you, sir, which is comparable to that of sworn brothers. I, too, owe a debt of gratitude to you two gentlemen for your help in times of trouble. Truly, you are the epitome of friendship." He then recounted the entire story of their encounter. Mr. Bao said, "You two are truly chivalrous and righteous individuals; I am far inferior to you." The two friends humbly replied, "We dare not accept such praise."
Just then, a small gong rang out, and a child rushed out from the inner hall. As Bao Gong looked, he heard laughter, and another child rushed out to snatch the gong. They were about the same age and looked identical. Bao Gong quickly asked who the two children were. Bai Gong replied, "They are my two grandsons. One is called Qionglang, and the other Yaolang." Mei Xian said to the two children, "Uncle Bao, please bow." Qionglang placed the gong on Mei Xian's chair and stood facing upwards with Yaolang, bowing repeatedly. Mei Xian said, "Stop. These are Uncles Yuan and Fang, you may also bow." The two children bowed again. Qionglang suddenly wobbled, somersaulted, and fell to the ground. Yaolang clapped his hands and laughed, "How embarrassing! Even a simple bow can lead to a fall!" Mei Xian quickly helped him up.
Qionglang didn't cry but laughed loudly. The whole banquet was filled with laughter. When Lord Bao arrived, he held the two children on his lap and said, "What a lovely pair of children! How old are they now?" Lord Bai replied, "They are both five years old, only about twenty days apart." Lord Bao asked in surprise. Lord Bai then explained his intention to marry two wives, each bearing a son. Lord Bao congratulated him profusely and gave the two children fruit pits to eat. The two children stroked Lord Bao's beard and touched his face, laughing happily. Lord Bao was delighted and asked his two friends, "How many sons do you two have?" Yuan Jianlu said, "My eldest son is twelve years old this year, named Wenjian, and is studying at the academy. I also have a daughter who is only four years old this year." Fang Duanru said, "I am ashamed to say that my eldest daughter is only four years old, and my son is still newborn."
Lord Bao nodded, considered for a moment, and said, "I have something to say to you two gentlemen. Brother Mei's two sons are five years old, and your daughters are four years old. It would be perfect for a marriage between them. Today, at this banquet, I will act as matchmaker to fulfill our friendship. What do you two think?" The two friends readily agreed. Bao Gong said, "Brother Mei, go and fetch the two betrothal gifts."
Mei Xian was overjoyed and went inside to fetch the pair of gold phoenix hairpins and the pair of jade hairpins that Bai Gong had given to the Jin family, and handed them to Bao Gong. Bao Gong said, "It's difficult to divide the betrothal gifts between the two gentlemen." So he placed them on the table and let the two children take them. Qiong Lang took the gold phoenix hairpins, and Yao Lang took the jade hairpins. Bao Gong pointed to the two friends and said to the children, "Give them to whichever one you like." Qiong Lang gave the gold phoenix hairpins to Fang Duanru, and Yao Lang gave the jade hairpins to Yuan Jianlu. The two friends took them and put them in their sleeves. Bao Gong said, "Today, the two fine sons-in-law can choose their fathers-in-law." He then said to the two children, "Call them 'father-in-law'." The two children shouted in unison, "Father-in-law! Father-in-law!" Everyone at the table applauded and laughed.
The two children said to Bao Gong, "I want to go in." Bao Gong said, "Go in for what?" The two children said, "Go in to ask for candy." Everyone laughed again. The two children ran inside together, then turned back and said to Mei Xian, "Give me back my gong." Mei Xian said, "You must bow and thank Uncle Bao before I return your gong." The two children bowed repeatedly. Mei Xian took the gong from the chair and returned it. The two children then banged the gong wildly inside again. Bao Gong laughed loudly, "This is truly what is meant by worldly joy." After the banquet, Bao Gong said to his two friends, "I will be the matchmaker for your wedding the day after tomorrow." The two friends thanked him, hid the betrothal gifts, and left with thanks.
The next day, Bao Gong took his leave. Bai Gong prepared generous gifts to see him off. Bao Gong lingered in the county for a few more days before returning to Bianjing. More than five years later, he fell ill and died. He had a son named Yan Chen, who was already grown up, and his funeral was conducted with full respect. The Bai family sent messengers to offer condolences. Later, Yan Chen rose to the position of Attendant-in-Ordinary and maintained close ties with the Bai family. Meanwhile,
Jin Gong was appointed to Qingzhou again, and after three years of service, he was promoted to Judge of the Ministry of Agriculture. Although the people loved him dearly and were reluctant to part with him, they knew they could not keep him, so they could only offer incense and weep as they saw him off. Because Jin Gong wished to marry Jin Sheng, and Madam Hu wanted to see her daughter, he petitioned for leave and went to the Bai family first.
Bai Gong and Mei Xian first welcomed Jin Gong and Jin Sheng into the hall to exchange greetings. Then, Madam Changsun, along with Feng Niang and Xia Xiao, came out to welcome Madam Hu inside to exchange greetings. Mei Xian also went in to pay respects to her mother-in-law, and then came out to accompany Jin Gong and Jin Sheng in a banquet in the outer room. A separate banquet was prepared in the inner room to entertain Madam Hu. On this day, mother and son were reunited, and father-in-law and son-in-law met; their joy was beyond words. The entourage rested separately.
Several days later, Jin Gong wished to return. Mei Xian said, "Two years ago, my friends Wei, Shen, and He sent congratulatory gifts, which I have not yet returned. Now, please convey my farewell to them on behalf of my son-in-law. Also, please send a gift to Master Kongru of Muyun Nunnery, which will also convey my final farewell." Jin Gong agreed and, together with Jin Sheng, bid farewell. Madam Hu, along with Fengniang and Xiaxiao, wept bitterly at their farewell. Bai Gong presented them with gifts to see him off.
Jin Gong set off, traveling day and night, and arrived in Xincheng County in less than a day. His family greeted him from afar. Jin Gong ordered the main gate opened and sealed off before entering. Relatives and friends, knowing of Jin Gong's return home, all came to offer their congratulations. Jin Gong instructed his family to deliver the gifts sent by Meixian to Kongru. Kongru was already over seventy years old, frail and pitiful. He accepted the gifts and repeatedly expressed his gratitude. He passed away two years later. Jin Gong then sent gifts to Wei, Shen, and He. The three men accepted the gifts and came to visit Jin Gong, expressing their gratitude and offering their own gifts. They then asked Jin Gong, "We heard that you, sir, have been promoted to the position of Minister of Agriculture. Why did you return home instead of taking up your post?"
Jin Gong then revealed his desire to marry Jin Sheng and asked the three men to act as matchmakers. Shen Yunpeng thought for a moment and said, "There is a wonderful match. I think Brother Wei has a younger sister who is of marriageable age, but due to the need to find a suitable match, her marriage has been delayed. If you, sir, were a virtuous man, it would be a wonderful thing."
Jin Gong was overjoyed and said, "I only fear that you, sir, might not be willing to marry into such a humble family." Wei Feixia said, "How could I dare? I only fear that my younger sister is unfit for marriage. If you, sir, would you dare to object?" Seeing that Wei Feixia was willing, Jin Gong said, "I trouble you, brothers Shen and He, to act as matchmakers and choose a date for the betrothal. After the wedding, I will go to the capital." The two agreed and departed.
Jin Gong then conducted the betrothal. Several days later, an auspicious day was chosen for the wedding. Wei Feixia personally escorted his sister. His two friends, Shen and He, also came. Jin Gong prepared a grand banquet. Jin Sheng came out and exchanged greetings. Feixia, seeing Jin Sheng's youthful talent and appearance, was overjoyed and asked, "I do not yet know your brother-in-law's name?" Jin Sheng replied, "My humble name is Zhiyu." All three praised him and asked who had chosen him. Jin Sheng said, "It was my brother-in-law who chose this place." Wei Feixia said, "Now that I call you brother-in-law, I should have called you 'sir' before." They laughed heartily, drank freely, and parted
in high spirits. Feixia's younger sister, whose nickname was Yunniang, was eighteen years old, with a graceful appearance and was also literate. The couple got along very well. A month later, Jin Gong went to the capital to take up his post. Jin Zhiyu stayed at home, spending his days discussing literature and composing poems with Wei Feixia, Shen Yunpeng, He Sheng, and others.
Before they knew it, a year had passed. It was time for the imperial examination. Zhiyu, who had originally entered the examination as a native of Qingzhou, wanted to go and take the exam, so he prepared his travel gear. Madam Hu said, "When you go to Qingzhou, tell them you can go to the Bai family to visit your sister." Zhiyu accepted the order and bid farewell to Yunniang. Feixia had already prepared money and wine to see him off, and all the relatives and friends also came to bid him farewell. Zhiyu set off and went to Qingzhou to visit his relatives at the Bai family.
Meixian was overjoyed to see Zhiyu arrive and invited him inside, where they all greeted each other. Fengniang asked, "Brother, when you return, whose house will you visit with your belly exposed?" Zhiyu replied, "It will be the sister of Wei Feixia from this city. My friends Shen and He will act as matchmakers." Fengniang then asked, "How long has Father been in the capital? Is Mother well at home?" Zhiwu replied, "Father has been in the capital for over a year. Fortunately, Mother is well and healthy. I wish to go to the capital to take the imperial examination, so I came to visit you."
The next day, Fang Duanru and Yuan Jianlu arrived, and Meixian greeted them and had them sit down. The two friends, Yuan and Fang, said, "We wish to go to the capital to take the imperial examination, so we came to say goodbye." Meixian said, "My brother-in-law is also going to the capital to take the examination; he arrived here yesterday. If you two brothers wish to go, you may come with us." The two friends gladly agreed. Meixian invited Zhiyu to come out and meet the two friends, and they bowed and sat down. Meixian explained the two friends' intention to take the examination. Zhiwu said, "If you two go, I will also follow suit. To be able to squeeze into the ranks of those who have passed the imperial examination would be my greatest wish." Meixian then prepared wine and money, and ordered a servant to go to the inn to invite a tutor to accompany them.
The two friends asked, "When was your tutor hired? We haven't had a chance to pay our respects yet." Mei Xian replied, "He was hired at the beginning of this spring." On the way, the two friends inquired about the tutor's name. Mei Xian said, "Your name is Li, and your courtesy name is Renfu. You are from this county and also work in the treasury. Now, being over fifty, you have no desire to take the exam..." Before she finished speaking, Mr. Li arrived. They all bowed and inquired about each other's names, then took their seats and drank wine. They chatted for a while, and when the banquet ended, Mr. Li took his leave first, going to his study.
Zhi Yu also went inside to say goodbye. Mei Xian presented each of them with gifts. Zhi Yu then went out with the two friends. Mei Xian said, "I hope all three of you will achieve top honors. I will prepare wine at home and await the good news." The three said, "We wish to do as you wish." They then rode together to the capital.
Upon arriving in the capital, they found lodging together. Because Zhi Yu had not yet taken the exam, he did not go to see Mr. Jin first, but instead studied with his two friends at the lodging. When the exam day arrived, they all took the exam. After the examination, when the results were announced, Yuan Hong ranked thirteenth in the second class, Fang Kan ranked seventh in the third class, and Jin Sheng ranked twenty-eighth in the third class. The three were overjoyed, saying, "We've all made it onto the list; it's truly a remarkable achievement that we came together." Each of them sent news home.
After the examination was over, Zhiyu and his two friends came to pay their respects to Master Jin. Master Jin already knew that the three had passed the examination together and said to his two friends, "My son is fortunate to have been recognized by you two gentlemen. I am overjoyed to have shared in this good fortune." The two friends replied, "We are truly fortunate to have been able to follow in your footsteps, thanks to your esteemed guidance." Master Jin ordered a celebratory feast.
The three men spent over a month in the capital paying respects to their fellow graduates and teachers, and then stayed in the capital to observe the civil service examinations before receiving their official certificates. Jin Sheng supported the study of Jin in Huguang, Fang Kan was appointed Assistant Magistrate of Caizhou, and Yuan Hong was appointed Magistrate of Puyuan County. The three men paid their respects to the emperor, bid farewell to
Jin Gong, and returned home to pay respects to their ancestors and sweep their graves. The three men went to Le'an County together. The two friends went home first, while Zhiyu unexpectedly came to the Bai family. Meixian was delighted to welcome them and they chatted. Everyone greeted each other, and Yulan also came to pay her respects. Fengniang said, "Greetings to the new Jinshi, so I can arrange your marriage." Zhiyu asked why, and Fengniang said, "Because he has grown up, he wants to choose someone to marry. I saw that Wan'er is unmarried, and she had previously helped in finding a husband, so I chose tomorrow to marry him. You've come today, which is a good opportunity to see." As
the two were talking, they suddenly heard someone outside announce that the banquet was over and asked Zhiyu to come out. Zhiyu then took Fengniang's leave and saw Mr. Li sitting there. After exchanging greetings, he took his seat. Meixian's two sons, who were already young, also came to pay their respects to their maternal uncle. Zhi Gong asked, "What names should we choose?" Mr. Li replied, "They were chosen by Master Mei: Bai Shan and Bai Hu."
Zhi Yu asked, "Why these names?" Master Mei said, "My former master gave me a coral whip, which led to our marriage. I dare not forget it, hence the names for my two sons. I intend to name Bai Shan with the courtesy name Pei Jia and Bai Hu with the courtesy name Xia Yi. I was just about to ask you, sir, if it's alright?" Master Mei said, "Excellent! These two characters are perfect. They should start writing now, and in the future, they will be as glorious as their maternal uncle, and I will also enjoy his favor." Zhi Yu said, "These two sons are exceptionally handsome and will surely pass the imperial examinations at a young age. At that time, I will be humbled by their achievements." They all laughed and parted ways. The next day, the two friends came to visit, and they also prepared wine and chatted.
Zhi Yu saw that Wan'er and Yu Lan had gotten married, so he set off to return to Hangzhou. Upon arriving home, he was overjoyed to see his mother and sons, and his wife and husband. They paid respects to their ancestors and were busy for over a month before he went to take up his post.
Yuan and Fang also finished their duties at home before going to take up their posts. Fang Duanru went to Caizhou. Yuan Jianlu went to Puyuan County, Lintao Prefecture. The yamen runners came to meet him at his post. He also paid respects to his superiors and local gentry, and only after finishing all the important matters did he begin to govern. One day, a memorial was presented to him. He read it slowly, then slammed his fist on the table and gritted his teeth in resentment.
The reason for this is unknown. Let's find out in the next chapter. Chapter Fifteen 　　:
The successful magistrate of Puyuan is granted a three-foot birthday celebration 　　and a wine cup is offered to celebrate his eightieth birthday. The poem reads: The slanting sun shines through the green snail shell at the gate, the spider weaves its web, waiting for the butterfly to pass by. 　　Many lines are not just cold sighs, but also idle sorrows, so let's sing aloud. 　　The wind sweeps away the flowers in the courtyard, leaving traces of birds, the dust on the books is enough to make the desk rot. 　　The white clouds outside the window do not linger, attracting two cranes to dance gracefully. 　　It is said that Yuan Jianlu was appointed as the magistrate of Puyuan County. After more than a month in office, he saw a memorial one day, which was about the Cangjin Ferry. It described the matter of the two strongmen in great detail. Yuan Jianlu slammed his fist on the table in a rage, saying, "After Liu Zhaofei crossed the river, the price was reduced to one qian (a unit of weight), how come now it's two liang (another unit of weight)? I suspect these two scoundrels are utterly wicked and deserve to be captured by me." He immediately dispatched several messengers to arrest them. 　　However, the two thugs had already foreseen this and fled. The messengers reported back, "The ferry is nowhere to be found, and when they went home, even their wives and children were nowhere to be seen." Yuan Jianlu said, "Let's wait until tomorrow to arrest them." That day, a local gentry came to visit and mentioned the matter of the two thugs. He took out several tens of liang of gold from his sleeve and gave it to Yuan Jianlu, begging him not to punish them. Jianlu said, "I am not fond of wealth, I dare not accept this order." The gentry had no choice but to leave. Jianlu then summoned the village head and instructed him, "How long have these thugs been on the run? They will surely come back to ferry people. When that time comes, secretly report to me." The village head knocked on a tree and left. 　　Several days later, the village head returned with the gold, claiming that the county magistrate had accepted it. The two thugs, knowing there was no trouble, did not stop the ferry service. At that time, the village head reported to Yuan Jianlu. Yuan Jianlu then boarded a sedan chair, followed by yamen runners, and arrived at the Canghe River ferry. The two thieves were shouting and cursing at someone, demanding silver. Yuan Jianlu ordered his runners to arrest them. The crowd quickly disembarked, bound the two thieves, and pushed them ashore. The village head had already set up an incense table, inviting Yuan Jianlu to sit down. He shouted, “You two thieves have been rampant and cruel, harming countless innocent people. You hoped to bribe your way out, but who knew that I, your lord, am someone who doesn't care about money, but works for the court to eliminate the wicked and violent. Look up, do you recognize me?” 　　The two thieves dared not look up, only prostrating themselves and begging for mercy. Yuan Jianlu said, “Do you remember that I was the one who came with Fei Du Hei Fei Shen? You two thieves, although I wish to spare you, Heaven will not forgive you. Guards, give them a good beating!” Seeing that their magistrate had given the order, the runners began to beat them mercilessly with a wooden board, ten blows at a time. The two thieves cried out in agony, only then realizing that the gold had been embezzled by the village official. The magistrate was none other than Yuan Jianlu. After drinking for over two hundred days, the two thieves finally died. Jianlu ordered their bodies to be thrown into the Cangjin River. 　　The people rejoiced, prostrating themselves in gratitude and offering incense as a sign of their passing. Jianlu returned to his office, reported to his superiors, and established an official ferry crossing, thus ending the scourge. The people erected a stele pavilion at the ferry crossing to commemorate Yuan Gong's virtue. Later, after Liu Zhao's death, he appeared in a dream to the locals, saying, "God pitied my loyalty and appointed me as the Inspector and Judge of the Cangjin River. The black-clad Liu Jun who flew across the river years ago is me." The next day, the locals told each other about the dream. The people were greatly astonished and reported it to the county government. By then, the county magistrate was no longer Jianlu, and his actions differed from those of the prefect. Jianlu ordered a temple to be built. The locals then built a temple behind Yuan Gong's stele pavilion and enshrined a statue of Liu Zhao. They also sculpted statues of the two thieves, placing them in shackles and kneeling beside the temple gate as a warning against evil. From then on, the temple was filled with the smoke of incense. But that is another story. 　　Now, let us say that Liu Zhao married Bai Gong, who also granted him land and supported him for life. Later, they had a son, whom Liu Zhao named Liu Zhongbai in gratitude for Bai Gong's kindness. At the age of ten, Liu Zhao fell ill and was bedridden for over a month. His condition gradually worsened, and he summoned his wife, Zhang, and son, Zhongbai, saying, "I was born in Wu, but I was born into an unsuitable family. It is thanks to Master Bai's special favor that I have you and your son before me today; otherwise, I would have perished long ago. After my death, you and your son must dedicate your lives to the Bai family, without any disloyalty, so that I may die in peace." Having said this, he passed away. Mother and son wept together. Zhongbai rushed to the Bai family to report the news. Master Bai and Meixian returned home that very day, weeping bitterly. They gave him a lavish funeral and performed Buddhist rites to commemorate Liu Zhao. 　　More than a month later, Bai Gong said to Mei Xian, "Liu Zhao has been dead for over a month, and a burial site has not yet been chosen. We should buy a plot of land to bury his coffin and complete his funeral arrangements." Mei Xian sent a geomancer to select a site, which turned out to be auspicious south of Xiangshi. Xiangshi was also a local name, and the land covered more than two acres. They then ordered earthworks to be built, and planted a thousand pine and cypress trees. Two ornamental stone pillars were erected in front of the tomb. A stone tablet was also erected, inscribed with the event. The tomb was enlarged, and the main stone inscription on the edge read "Tomb of the Late Righteous Man Liu of the Song Dynasty." A date was chosen for the burial. 　　Liu Zhongbai and his mother accompanied the coffin to the tomb, and seeing its exceptionally neat arrangement, they were overjoyed and grateful. The burial was scheduled for the appointed time. Bai Gong and Mei Xian arrived together, and family members brought wine, paper money, and silk as offerings. The inscription read: " 　　The weeping is mournful, the wind is sorrowful. The swaying is alas, the swirling boat, the white night, the accumulated snow. A fleeting glance, a startled swan. Alas, the chaos of life, the falling petals gradually scatter and decay." Gathering and scattering in an instant, their true nature unknown. Heaven and earth are a furnace, where errors and misfortunes intertwine. Alas, a hundred years is so fleeting, how uneven are joys and sorrows! Touching their voices and faces as if from yesterday, we unexpectedly become close in distant lands. Seeking refuge, we entered Pan'a, singing clear songs on moonlit evenings. Flowers bloomed repeatedly in the mornings, their vibrant colors mingling with the sounds of dew and frost. What joy was there not to be enjoyed, what pleasure not to be shared? Together we sought peace and tranquility, lingering in a corner. Hoping for joy or sorrow, life and death were decided in an instant. We saw the spirits, who commanded us. Suddenly, the hearse could not return. Looking towards the three passes, they were so close. The soul returned, its dwelling place shrouded in mist, its mounds filled with flowing streams. Looking up at the floating clouds, we felt a surge of emotion. 　　The ceremony concluded. The loyal mother and son prostrated themselves in gratitude, and Bai Gong comforted them, leading them back together. He also frequently sent people to bring them provisions. Later, Liu Zhongbai grew up, married, and had children, serving the Bai family faithfully for generations. 　　At that time, Meixian's two sons, Bai Shan and Bai Hu, were thirteen years old, handsome and charming. The tutor, Li Renfu, devoted himself to their instruction. The two sons also studied diligently and quickly became well-versed in literature. The tutor told Meixian, "Although the two boys are young, their writing is quite remarkable. This year, when the school holds its examinations, it would be good to send them to see how things are going." Meixian was overjoyed and prepared their belongings, instructing Wan'er to attend to them, while she and Mr. Li led the two boys to Qingzhou to take the examination. 　　The two boys took the exam, completed their essays, and submitted their papers to the school officials. The examiner, noticing the two children's similar ages and appearances, and their early mastery of writing, found it remarkable and asked, "Are you two from the same family?" The two children bowed in unison and replied, "We are brothers." The examiner then asked, "What was your grandfather's occupation, and what was his name?" The two children answered, "His surname is Bai, his grandfather's name is Rang, and his courtesy name is Jiguang. His father's name is Yinhao Meixian. His grandfather was once an imperial censor, and his father was a commoner." 　　Seeing their fluent responses, the examiner said, "Show me your writings." The two children unfolded their scrolls and presented them to the examiner with both hands. The examiner, seeing their excellent understanding, was greatly pleased and said after reading the writing, "Such writing at such a young age; one can only imagine what their future holds." He then personally approved their registration. The two children bowed in gratitude and left, informing Meixian and Mr. Li of the matter. 　　The next day, when the registration was opened, the two children were indeed listed on the table. Meixian and Mr. Li were overjoyed. After the examination and the tour of the archives, the two children returned home, paid respects to their grandparents and parents, and again thanked Mr. Li, presenting him with generous gifts. Everyone was happy.

A few days later, it was Bai Gong's eightieth birthday. Mei Xian presented him with fruit pits as a birthday gift, offering a toast and saying, "May the peaches of immortality bring you blessings, my venerable father." Bai Gong was overjoyed and drank the cup in one gulp. The whole family offered their congratulations. Mei Xian had already prepared a feast in the hall. It was late March, the weather was pleasantly warm, and the garden was bright and beautiful. Mr. Li also came out of his study to offer his congratulations. Then Bai Gong and the others took their seats. Mr. Li sat at the head of the table, with people
sitting around him. There were no other guests that day, so they reminisced over the feast. Mr. Li said, "Old Bai, you are celebrating your eightieth birthday, and your two grandsons are also delighted with their admission to the academy. I, a humble tutor, have also been fortunate enough to receive your favor. My gratitude cannot be expressed in words." Bai Gong said, "My two grandsons are fortunate to have been admitted to the academy thanks to your teachings and your good fortune. I only wish for their continued success. If they are granted an official position in the future, I will be able to wipe away my aging eyes and smile again. That would be a great blessing." Mr. Li then answered his questions. Mei Xian said, "Today is my father's 80th birthday. I have nothing to offer him, so I hastily composed a few simple verses here. I
humbly request your consideration." She then took them out of her sleeve and handed them to Mr. Li. Mr. Li read them and wrote: "White hair, blue eyes, a long-lived man; A cup of wine offered in celebration, a humble offering.
A hundred years not yet over, seven thousand days; Three months have passed, another spring has arrived.
Orchid buds on the jade steps are newly sprouted; Fragrant osmanthus blossoms in the empty woods.
I long to borrow your robes for a playful performance, but alas, I am too engrossed in my own entertainment..."
Mr. Li read them and said, "A truly wonderful piece, perfect for celebrating this auspicious occasion." He praised them endlessly, and they
parted in high spirits. At this time, relatives and friends, knowing of Mr. Bai's 80th birthday, came in droves to offer their congratulations. Furthermore, Bai Shan and Bai Hu both entered school, and they also offered their congratulations. They were busy for over a month. It was April, and the weather was exceptionally hot. One day, Mei Xian was chatting idly with Feng Niang in her room, talking about their two sons entering school together, laughing heartily. Fengniang said, "It's only early summer, and it's already so hot. Spring is much better." Meixian said, "Because of the leap month in spring, April is now like May, no wonder it's so hot." Xiajian said, "The other day, because of the leap month, I wanted to write a poem about it. I saw in Bai Juyi's manuscripts the line 'Spring is added by the leap month,' so I wrote four five-character regulated poems in that style. I haven't shown them to you yet, for fear you'd laugh at me." Meixian said, "Who dares laugh at you? Quickly bring them to me so I can proofread them." Xiaxiao said, "I doubt you can proofread them all; they're pretty much the same as mine. Fine, let me show them to you. If I don't proofread them well, I'll give you two slaps on the head." The three of them laughed incessantly. Xiaxiao then retrieved the poems from the box and handed them to Meixian. Fengniang also came to look. It read: Poem
1:
Spring is added by the leap month, a wonderful thing in the boudoir.
The curtains are drawn back, trying on makeup by the bamboo curtain.
The forehead gleams like white plum blossoms, the eyebrows resemble willow tips.
The east wind cannot be resisted, it should stir the slender waist of Chu.
Second
poem: Spring is added
by the leap month, adding to the beauty of the secluded study. Orchids intertwine on the steps, swallows seek their oath and return to the curtain.
Jade petals of plum blossoms fly white, golden buds of willows burst forth.
I stand watching the cranes in the courtyard, learning to dance, their movements slender and graceful.
Third
poem: Spring is added by the leap month, adding to the beauty of the gauze window.
Willows, with intoxicated eyes, convey messages from the
plum blossoms behind the sparse curtain. The smoke from the incense burner flies in the mist, the brush tip is shrouded in clouds. I enjoy reading
on the half-rested bed, the spirit book treads on the fragrant, slender steps.
Fourth poem:
Spring is added by the leap month, adding to the beauty of the garden. Plum blossoms are dense, orioles avoid the slingshot, 　　swallows, nested, fly
through the curtain. Bees pluck flowers like needles, thunder ruffles the buds. 　　The branches are full of spring's essence, the green hands feel slender. 　　Mei Xian finished reading and said, "Good, good. No need to revise." Feng Niang said, "Truly, his conception is very clever, the rhyme is fresh and elegant, not inferior to Jiang and Ban's learning. No need to revise, nor to beat him." The three laughed and dispersed. 　　When Li Renfu, the tutor, fell ill, he returned home to recuperate, so Meixian took it upon herself to tutor her two sons. The two sons were already grown up, truly quick-witted and exceptionally intelligent, their talents greatly developing. However, Mr. Li suddenly fell ill and never recovered. Bai Shan and Bai Hu mourned deeply, and the Bai family helped with half of the funeral expenses. 　　Another year passed. It was late spring, still bitterly cold, but the plum blossoms in the courtyard were still in full bloom. Meixian, Fengniang, and Xiaxiao came out to admire the plum blossoms. Fengniang said, "You haven't written poetry in a long time. These plum blossoms are beautiful; why not compose a poem?" Meixian, hearing this, took up her brush and inkstone, sat in the main hall, and ground the ink and brush. She picked up her brush and began to write her poem. Fengniang said, "Make it well. If it's not good, I'll have to scold you after I finish reading it." The three of them laughed heartily. Meixian recited: " 　　The catkins are cut to compose a new poem, Xue Yuan originally protected the cold fragrance. 　　Only the night moon and the clear breeze invite it, its slender shadow moving across the bamboo bed." 　　Mei Xian paused her writing, lost in thought, when Wan'er approached and said, "Master invites the eldest son in for a talk." Mei Xian put down her pen and hurried inside. Feng Niang and Xia Xiao then gathered their writing materials and went into the room. 　　What did Bai Gong want with Mei Xian? We'll find out in the next chapter. 　　Chapter Sixteen: Single Whip Re-tied, High and Low Angles, Double Laurels Passing the Imperial Examinations . 　　The poem reads: 　　A day of wind and rain, the great river cold, I rest 　　my loom, entrusting my fishing rod to the seagulls. My ink-stained beard seems too narrow for my age, frost-covered yellow leaves make autumn seem vast. 　　The fence against the weasel and chicken is full of thorns, the patched paper and gauze windows tightly protect the orchids. 　　I'll brew a thousand days of intoxication, carrying my staff and wearing my leather cap. 　　Now, Mei Xian went inside to see Bai Gong. Bai Gong told her to sit down and said, "Tomorrow is Qingming Festival. Take wheat rice and offerings to Liu Zhao's grave in Xiangshi to sweep the tomb. I'm afraid of the cold and cannot go; you can go in my place." Mei Xian accepted the order and returned to her room. Fengniang said, "Your poetic inspiration wasn't finished just now, so I'll compose a poem in response." She then showed it to Meixian. It read: " 　　The spring breeze hasn't stirred, yet the jade-like makeup is tried; the full moon on the branches carries fragrance. 　　A slender frame can withstand the firmness of ice and snow; a gentle paper curtain accompanies the doctor's bedside. 　　" Meixian read it and said, "The rhyme is complete; your poetic inspiration is at its peak." Fengniang asked what Meixian wanted. Meixian said, "My father said tomorrow is Qingming Festival, and he wants to go to sweep Liu Zhao's grave, but he's afraid of the cold and won't go, so he asked me to go in his place." Fengniang said, "The sky is full of dark clouds; I'm afraid it will snow." Meixian said, "Last month it was so cold; it did snow." 　　The next day, indeed, the ground was covered in jade-like snow. After the ceremony, Meixian saw that the ground was frozen and difficult to walk on, so she and Fengniang took a coral whip and set off on their donkey. The family carried the offerings and followed. Before long, they arrived at Liu Zhao's grave in Xiangshi. The family laid out the offerings, Meixian offered the prayers, and the family burned paper money. Mei Xian found the snow scene lovely, so she ordered her family to pack up the sacrificial offerings and take them back first. She then leisurely rode her donkey, admiring the snowscape. Gazing at a small hill in the distance, its snow-capped peaks and valleys exquisitely detailed, she rode her donkey to its foot. After watching for a while, she suddenly heard someone singing in the pine forest. The song went: " 　　Heaven and earth have just parted from their bed, I've arrived in the east of Qi. 　　Overnight, the green mountains have aged completely, leaving me with endless sighs. I awoke 　　from my dream on my high throne, to the bright moon and gentle breeze. 　　Alas, the whip has been whipped, long since we parted, today we meet again." 　　Upon hearing this, Mei Xian quickly dismounted and approached. He heard someone say, "Mei Xian, I have been here for a long time." Mei Xian turned and saw a yellow ox deep in the woods, with an old man sitting on its back. Recognizing Huang Du Ke, he hurriedly bowed and said, "Immortal Master, we have been separated for so long! Today we meet again. Please save my remaining life." The old man told him to rise and said, "Several years have passed since we parted, and youth has changed drastically. Have the poems I gave you come true?" 　　Mei Xian stood respectfully and replied, "They have all come true. Now I wish to follow you, Immortal Master." The old man said, "You are already at peace; why must you follow me? Learning the Dao does not necessarily require wandering beyond the mortal realm, fasting, and cultivating qi. Besides, you will enjoy endless worldly riches. I will guide you to the Dao after your natural lifespan ends." Mei Xian asked, "When will my natural lifespan end?" The old man said, "The years are difficult to predict. Only after your eyebrows turn white will you sever your ties to the mortal world. At that time, you will truly be a white-browed immortal. I gave you a coral whip before; may you return it now."

Mei Xian presented the coral whip with both hands. The old man said, "Coral whip, coral whip, you've been gone for several years, and you've accomplished many great things. Now you can go back!" He then hung it on the ox's horn. Only to find that one horn was broken in half. Mei Xian asked, "Why is the ox's horn broken? When did it break?" The old man said, "Master Xi Yi once gave me a verse, the last line of which said, 'When the two horns are high and low, the true fruit is achieved.' Now that half of the ox's horn has broken off, the meaning of the verse has been fulfilled. I will not leave the mountain now. When you die, I will guide you to witness the end. I say no more, and I will depart forever." He then drove the ox away at breakneck speed.
Mei Xian bowed again to see him off, and in a flash, he disappeared, then mounted his donkey and returned home. He recounted this story to his parents and family. All who heard it were amazed and astonished! Mei Xian said, "The former Immortal Master said we would meet again, and today we have indeed met. The coral whip was reattached to the horns of the ox, and we departed. I suppose my family's fortunes are limited to this. But how can I obtain these two white eyebrows so that I can be listed in the Immortal Records?" Everyone laughed heartily upon hearing this.
At that time, Bai Shan and Bai Hu, who were going to the capital to take the imperial examination, came to bid farewell. Hearing about the Immortal Master's story, they were also amazed. Mei Xian ordered Wan'er to accompany them to the capital for the examination. When the results were announced, Bai Shan ranked second in the second class, and Bai Hu ranked eighth in the third class. The brothers were overjoyed to have passed the examination together and went to visit Master Jin. At that time, Master Jin was the Left Vice Minister of the Ministry of Personnel. He had retired and was about to return home when he suddenly saw his two grandsons coming to visit. Seeing that they were brothers who had passed the examination together, he was overjoyed and ordered a feast to be prepared. They enjoyed themselves to the fullest.
Several days later, Master Jin returned with his two grandsons. Upon arriving at Liuyin Village, seeing the neatly arranged memorial tablets, Bai sighed to his two grandsons, "This was built by Master Bao. The structure remains as it is, but Master Bao is gone; it's truly heartbreaking."
Upon hearing that Jin Gong had returned with his two grandsons, Bai Gong immediately sent men to greet him from afar. Upon reaching the hall, Bai Gong, leaning on his cane, came out to pay his respects. Mei Xian also bowed in greeting. Afterwards, Bai Shan and Bai Hu paid their respects to their grandfather and father, and then went inside to pay their respects to their grandmother and two mothers. Jin Gong also went inside to meet Feng Niang and Xia Xiao, and they chatted intimately. A grand banquet was held that day, extremely lavish. Jin Gong invited them to stay at the Bai family home.
Bai Shan and Bai Hu each rode out on horseback to visit relatives and old friends. Even gentry and high-ranking officials from the county town came to pay their respects. The county also sent banners and plaques. Liuyin Village, usually a remote and desolate place, was now bustling with officials and dignitaries.
When Fang Duanru returned from his post as Provincial Surveillance Commissioner and Yuan Jianlu returned from his post as Military Commissioner of Qizhou, they learned of Bai Shan and Bai Hu's success in the imperial examinations and went to the Bai family home. After exchanging greetings with Bai Gong and his sons, Jin Gong also came out to pay his respects. Yuan and Fang repeatedly expressed their gratitude for their time in the capital. Bai Shan and Bai Hu also came out to greet them. Jin Gong said, "You two sons-in-law have both passed the imperial examinations thanks to the blessings of your fathers-in-law, which is a great joy for our family." Fang Duanru said, "It is all thanks to my maternal grandfather's blessing; what did we two have to do with it?" Yuan Jianlu said, "I met you two years ago when you were just children; now
you are both over twenty. No wonder we are in our declining years." They chatted for a while. That day, Bai Gong also held a grand banquet, and several people took their seats. Jin Gong said, "I still don't know how the betrothal of your daughters was arranged." Mei Xian couldn't help but laugh and recounted the story of the two sons' marriage, how Bao Gong arranged the betrothal, and how the two sons were assigned their daughters. The whole family laughed heartily. Bai Shan and Bai Hu found it quite amusing. Master Jin said to the two friends, Yuan and Fang, "Two years ago, it was Master Bao who acted as matchmaker. Now, Master Bao has unfortunately passed away. My two grandsons are grown up, and your daughters are of marriageable age. Both are currently on leave at home, and I am here. Therefore, I will be the officiant for the wedding. We will choose a date for the ceremony. What do you two think?" The two friends, Yuan and Fang, were overjoyed and said, "We will obey your command." The group drank for a long time.
After the banquet, the two friends departed. Master Jin repeatedly instructed Mei Xian, and they chose the eighth day of the month for the betrothal ceremony and the thirteenth day for the wedding. He wrote the invitations and sent them to the Yuan and Fang families.
On the eighth day, the betrothal ceremony was completed. On the tenth day, Jin Zhiyu suddenly arrived. It turned out that Zhiyu had also returned home after completing his examination as a councilor in Jiangxi. Knowing that Master Jin had retired and had not returned home, he assumed he was staying at the Bai family's house. Madam Hu also wanted him to come and visit, so Zhiyu came to the Bai family's house. Mei Xian, overjoyed, exclaimed, "You've come at the perfect time! My nephews are celebrating their wedding!" Zhi Yu, inquiring about the joyous occasion, replied, "I wish I had come sooner; if I had been a few days later, we wouldn't have been able to enjoy this feast." Everyone laughed.
Inside, they found Jin Gong chatting with Feng Niang in her room. Seeing Zhi Yu arrive, he inquired about his purpose. Zhi Yu greeted them, explaining he was visiting relatives after completing his term, and then went to pay his respects to Bai Gong and Lady Changsun. Bai Shan and Bai Hu, knowing of Zhi Yu's arrival, also came to pay their respects. Zhi Yu, learning of his nephews' consecutive success in the imperial examinations, exclaimed with delight, "I told Mr. Li that my nephews would surely achieve high honors in the examinations at a young age. Now my words have come true! How will you thank me?" Feng Niang replied, "The wedding will take place tonight; bow to your maternal uncles a few more times, and that will suffice." Everyone laughed heartily. They then prepared wine in the inner room, welcomed Zhi Yu, and settled in with Jin Gong.
On the thirteenth day, the Bai family dispatched two embroidered carriages and a retinue of musicians to fetch the brides from the Yuan and Fang families. Each first offered sacrifices to the wild geese, pushed the cart three steps, and rode back on horseback. Fang Duanru appointed his son, named Kun, styled Xianghuang, to ride a horse to escort his sister. Yuan Jianlu appointed his eldest son, named Wenjian, styled Tiangu, to ride a horse to escort his younger sister. The journey was filled with the sounds of drums and music, and the red lanterns illuminated the scene, making it very lively. Upon arriving at the Bai family's gate, the cart stopped. Meixian burned the Hehe Horse (a type of ceremonial horse). The master of ceremonies chanted a poem: "
Auspicious air fills the hall today, two silver candles shine brightly.
Cranes ride into the sky from the incense burner, mandarin ducks playfully splash in the water beneath the covers."
After the master of ceremonies invited them three times, the attendant helped the two beauties out of the cart and into the hall. The master of ceremonies then invited Bai Shan and Bai Hu to bow to Heaven and Earth with the two beauties. Bai Gong and Lady Changsun sat on embroidered chairs, and after the master of ceremonies had given them a bow, Meixian, Fengniang, and Xiaxiao sat down together. After the bows, Jin Gong and Zhiyu were invited to pay their respects. Afterwards, Jie Lirong was taken to the room to drink from the nuptial cup. After all the ceremonies were completed, the master of ceremonies invited Yuan Tiangu and Fang Xianghuang into the hall for a formal greeting. A lavish banquet was laid out in the hall, with the two new maternal uncles seated at the head of the table, accompanied by several people, while musicians sang and served wine. After the banquet, Fang Xianghuang and Yuan Tiangu bid farewell and rode away together. All the servants received generous rewards and dispersed.
The next day, Mei Xian held another banquet, inviting Yuan Jianlu and Fang Duanru to attend, and they exchanged pleasantries. Jin Zhiyu also attended. The two friends, Yuan and Fang, said, “Brother Mei, you have achieved great success in both the major and minor imperial examinations. Your father-in-law and uncles, though separated by a thousand miles, have gathered here today. This banquet truly makes for a reunion, a joyous occasion for the whole family.” They dispersed, all quite drunk.
At the same time, due to the wedding celebrations, a large number of people arrived with congratulatory gifts. The family was overjoyed to have two beautiful and virtuous brides. Mei Xian said, "Human happiness has come to an end; what more could I hope for? I will enjoy my leisurely years until my eyebrows turn white."
Several days later, Jin Gong and Zhi Yu bid farewell and returned home. He then maintained close relationships with Wei Feixia, Shen Yunpeng, He Sheng, and others. Jin Gong died in his seventies. Madam Hu also passed away soon after. Jin Zhi Yu rose to the position of Proofreader at the Chongwen Academy, and had two sons, both of whom held high ranks. Yuan Jianlu rose to the position of Right Vice Minister. Fang Duanru rose to the position of Imperial Censor. Both sons also held important positions. Bai Shan rose to the position of Vice Chancellor. Bai Hu rose to the position of Pacification Commissioner of Hebei, and was granted the title of Imperial Grandee. Bai Gong died at the age of ninety-two, and was posthumously awarded the title of Secretary of the Imperial Library and the posthumous name Zhuangmin Gong. Madam Changsun died at the age of eighty-eight, and was granted the title of Lady of Yan'an County, a second-rank official. Mei Xian
lived to be over eighty years old, her beard and hair turning white, extending to her eyebrows, and she died peacefully in her bed without illness. The court wished to posthumously award her the title of Grand Councilor and the posthumous name Wensu. The two sons followed their father's wishes, accepting only posthumous titles and declining the honor of being appointed Attendant-in-Ordinary. Both Fengniang and Xiaxiao died at a young age. The two sons mourned them deeply, performing all the proper rites, and built a tomb for them, expanding it three times. The tombstone is inscribed "Tomb of Bai Gong, the Recluse of the Song Dynasty." Bai Shan had three sons, and Bai Hu had two sons, all of whom received high-ranking titles from the court. From then on, the Bai, Jin, Fang, and Yuan families maintained close ties through marriage. They returned home to become prominent clans, their literary traditions passed down through generations, and their official positions were held for generations, their fame still evident to this day. This shows
that those who do good ultimately benefit, while those who do evil only harm themselves.
If it were like Huiqing, whose power was like a jackal, he would inevitably feel ashamed of his own greatness; Liaoyuan, posing as a tutor, was greedy and lustful, and ultimately died in the belly of a river fish; a group of thieves robbed a boat, and two strongmen intercepted them while they were crossing—one died by a knife, the other by a cane—is this not a clear and unambiguous retribution? As for Liu Zhao, the Black Flying God, who reformed his ways and devoted himself to repaying kindness, he finally found happiness with a wife and children, his tomb was sealed three feet high, his power and prestige were awe-inspiring, and he was promoted to the position of River God. Another example: Friendships flourished, marriage alliances were forged, and lasting harmony lasted a hundred years, which was not in vain. Others will not be detailed here. He lived a life of seclusion, his name inscribed on a stele, his traces recorded for ten thousand years. He was invited to the Peach Banquet, indifferent to the comings and goings of the world. His small book, filled with casual writing, was a favorite, used to ease his worries. If one can ease one's worries, then one is a fairy, and it would not be in vain that I have recounted this anecdote. A poem laments: The cuckoo's
cry fades as spring grows old, fallen petals carpet the fragrant grass.
Swallows peer into their nests, hindering the twilight, a pond ruffled by the early spring breeze.
In quietude, he played the zither and recited poetry, enjoying the ink and brush in the incense smoke.
He idly searched for flowers and the moon, turning them into musical scores, recognizing a different world within the pot.
The autumn rain pattered on the paulownia trees, each sound telling its story to the stones before the steps.
The beaded curtain was rolled up, leaving only the empty moon, the distant mountains divided into green hues.
Who pities the plum blossoms by the pavilion, their steadfast integrity lingering alone amidst the cold fragrance and light snow?
Even more distasteful is the sound of the neighbor's flute, its notes fading into the distance, the rhythm of life rising from the ashes of six pipes.
I intend to dispel this fleeting dream with the tip of my brush, as the sun moves the flower shadows across the wall's edge.
Do not dismiss these anecdotes as worthless; let us invite the fragrant breeze to accompany our wine.

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