【Illustrated Record of Fragrance】【75】【Author: Qingzhu Qiu】

page views:1 Publication date:2023-03-24

Chapter Seventy-Five: Commander Yun, with an umbrella, inspects the dikes again; Prefect Feng, greedy for merit, is dismissed. It is said that Yun Conglong, having requested leave to return to Henan, had already reached the end of his one-year term. Following Conglong's suggestion, he wished to extend his leave for another year so he could bring his family to Nanjing to reunite with Xiaoru and others. However, the dike works along the Zhejiang coast were in dire need of repair during the spring tide. The local governor-general hurriedly submitted a memorial requesting an imperial edict to repair them to prevent further flooding in the autumn, fearing that the situation would be even more difficult to manage at the last minute. Upon hearing of this, Li Wenjun immediately petitioned to "re-appoint Yun Conglong to inspect the dike works in Zhejiang Province, allowing him to act expediently. Moreover, since Yun Conglong supervised the repairs after the last flood in the Grand Canal, the waters have remained calm and tranquil. It would be better to send him back to Zhejiang to oversee the coastal dike works, and he can return to the capital after their completion." The inner court, upon seeing this memorial, greatly approved. Just as Conglong's leave was about to expire, an imperial edict was issued, ordering Yun Conglong to immediately go to Zhejiang Province to handle the matter. One day, Conglong, having been summoned to the capital, dared not delay and immediately packed his belongings, taking Wanrong, Xiaofeng, and others with him. He first settled his family in Nanjing before heading to Zhejiang.
At this time, Conglong was an official on patrol, and local officials along the way showered him with gifts, so news of his arrival in Nanjing had already reached him. After more than a day on the road, he arrived in Nanjing, where all the civil and military officials of the city came out ten miles outside the city walls to greet him. His boat docked, and Conglong, Wanrong, and Xiaofeng immediately took sedan chairs to their new residence. Afterwards, the servants and others escorted the luggage into the city. Upon arriving at the garden gate, Xiaoru and others greeted Conglong. They exchanged pleasantries. Wang Lan quickly relayed the news of Qin Guan and the others' arrival, which Conglong found very pleasing. Soon after, Wu Guan, along with Qin Guan and six others, and more than twenty children, came to pay their respects to Conglong. Upon seeing this, Conglong praised it highly and smiled at everyone, saying, "I've been away from here for over a year, and your garden is so thriving, truly enhancing the beauty of all the flowers and willows. It's a pity I can't linger too long this time, as I must go to Zhejiang, which is quite disheartening. After this, I must go to the capital to meet His Majesty, and I don't know if I'll be able to return to Nanjing. Fortunately, I still have a few days here, and I'm determined to enjoy myself for these two days. How can I let you all have all the beauty and let spring laugh at me!" Wang Lan clapped her hands and laughed, "Zai Tian is truly understanding. Tomorrow I will prepare a banquet and invite you first." Xiao Ru smiled and said, "Zhe Xiang is busy again. Tomorrow, Tian has to pay respects to all the officials in the city and won't have time. How about starting the day after tomorrow, we take turns welcoming him for ten days, which shouldn't delay his departure." Conglong nodded in agreement.
Inside, Madam Fang and others also welcomed Wanrong in. Xiao Feng greeted them and they sat down to talk about what had happened since they last met. When they talked about Hong Wen's death, Wanrong and Xiao Feng were also saddened. Luo Zhu immediately sent her wet nurse with Bao Shu to pay her respects. Xiao Feng quickly took the boy in her arms, stroked him for a while, and said, "Young master is born with extraordinary features; he will surely amount to something great in the future. Aunt Hong can die without regrets having such a son!" She then took out two small gold ingots from her side as a gift for the boy's first meeting, and Wan Rong also gave him something. Madam Fang smiled and bowed to thank her, then ordered the back room to be cleaned so that Wan Rong and the others could put away their luggage. The whole day was busy inside and out before things calmed down. Qi Hong and Wen Qin had already been invited
by Lü Ying and other head maids to go out and chat. The next day, the emperor returned the greetings to the civil and military officials and then personally went to the Zhu residence to pay his respects to Lord Zhu. Cheng Wan Rong also went to Jiang Su Xin's place with Xiao Feng. Afterwards, Old Madam Zhu brought Su Xin and her grandson Meng Geng to return the greetings, and Madam Fang kept Su Xin for several days. Now, Wanrong's son, named Yunhe, is about the same age as the young masters of various families, and all of them are handsome and dashing. That evening, after Xiaoru returned home, he discussed with Madam Fang: "We should still set up a stage in front of Liuchun Pavilion, with an embroidered curtain separating the two sides, so that the east side can host Conglong and the west side can host the ladies; since the troupe is small, they can't perform in both places. We've already agreed to take turns hosting for ten days, so you should also prepare some money to invite Mrs. Yun. Although Mrs. Yun lives here, you still need to invite her. If we set up a separate venue, it will be a hassle." Madam Fang agreed and immediately asked Lüying to invite Lan Gu over, informing her of the matter: "The banquets on both sides must be exceptionally lavish, and instruct the kitchen to gather all the dishes for payment in ten days." Lan Gu agreed to take care of it herself. Upon receiving the news, the servants of the Chen family busied themselves preparing Liuchun Pavilion overnight. They then informed the head servant that Xiaoru would invite Conglong over the next morning, while Madam Fang and others also invited Wanrong and Xiaofeng to Liuchun Pavilion. The servants had already set up a banquet. On the east side, Conglong was seated at the head table, accompanied by Xiaoru, Wang Lan, Meixian, and Wuguan. On the west side, Cheng Wanrong was seated at the head table, accompanied by Madam Fang, Hong Jingyi, Jiang Suxin, and Shen Langu. Xiaofeng was seated at the next head table, accompanied by Luozhu, Ba Shi, and Jinzheng. Qin Guan and Lingguan came up early to greet everyone, first reaching Conglong and presenting the play list. Conglong politely declined for a moment before choosing a play. On the west side, Yu'er greeted everyone from outside the curtain and presented the play list. Madam Fang smiled at Wanrong and said, "Yu'er is only fourteen years old this year, and he sings very well. Why don't we call him in, ask him which two plays he likes to sing, and then have him perform them?" Upon hearing this, Wanrong immediately ordered Yu'er to be brought in. The maids quickly lifted the curtain, and Yu'er rushed forward, greeted the ladies, and stood to the side with his hands at his sides. Wanrong looked at Yu'er and smiled, "This child is indeed very pleasing to the eye; no wonder Madam Chen praised him. You should sing whatever plays you are comfortable with; we won't choose any." Yu'er readily agreed and stepped aside. Suddenly, the gong sounded on stage. Today, the musicians and others were all in high spirits, each showcasing their talents, truly a resounding and enchanting performance. The audience, including Conglong, cheered enthusiastically. Awards were presented from both sides, and the musicians and others hurriedly came forward to thank them before continuing their performance. In the evening, only a few red candles were lit at the main banquet on both sides, while white glass lamps were lit in all ten rooms to the left and right, as well as at the entrance to the stage. The reflected light from these lamps illuminated the area in front of the banquet
, making it as bright as day. This continued until after the night watchman's drum, lasting for four or five days. On this day, Conglong said, "We sing opera every day, which is quite boring. Today, let them sit in front of the banquet and play and sing. Wouldn't that be a different kind of fun?" Xiaoru and the others agreed, so they asked Qin Guan, Ling Guan, Chun Guan, and a group of older children to sit on the east side; Lan Guan, Song'er, Yu'er, and a group of younger children to sit on the west side. They used only zithers and flutes, without gongs and drums, and everyone ate and drank while listening to them play and sing. Several more tables of wine were given as a reward, and Qin Guan and the others were invited to drink together in the ten rooms. On the tenth day, Conglong forced himself to host the banquet again. When the wine was half-drunk, he called Qin Guan and the others over and gave each of them a few gifts. After the banquet, he instructed his servants to prepare for their departure the next morning. Xiao Ru and the others, due to the imperial decree of the emperor, could not linger. Upon returning home, Conglong told Wanrong that he would depart the next morning. Xiao Feng had already checked and prepared all necessary items before they went to sleep. At
dawn the next day, Conglong rose to bid farewell to everyone and led his servants to the dock. Officials from the city were already waiting to see him off; Conglong declined their thanks, boarded the ship, and ordered the sails to be set sail south. After eight or nine days, they reached the border of Zhejiang Province. At this time, Feng Erlang had been transferred from Huzhou to act as the prefect of Hangzhou. Because of his excellent reputation in Huzhou, and given the vacancy in Hangzhou, Leng Huan had requested Erlang to take over. Hearing of Conglong's arrival, Erlang, along with the other officials, went out of the city to greet him. Zhu Boqing had also been appointed to Hangzhou. Conglong disembarked, first paying his respects to the military governor, and then came to meet him. Boqing and Erlang knew that Long Zong was coming, but they waited at the academy's office early on.
After exchanging pleasantries, they removed their coats and were invited into the inner courtyard to discuss their feelings since their separation. Conglong then spoke of the Qin Guan and others from Nanjing. Boken said, "I received a letter from Zhexiang last month mentioning this matter; he praised them highly. Now that I've seen them in person, please tell me and Chuqing just how good they are." Conglong laughed, "Zhexiang's praise is indeed commendable; the six Qin Guans, the leader, are truly unparalleled. Even the other children each have their merits. In short, compared to Xiao Qu and Wu Guan, the six Qin Guans cannot be considered the best, and the other six are not to be underestimated." Before Conglong could finish speaking, Erlang... He stamped his foot and said, "It's just that Boqing and I have only just left Nanjing, and they're already enjoying themselves like this. It's truly enviable and infuriating! Boqing will return to the capital after his three-year term and then immediately go to Nanjing to see its splendor. As for me, I don't know when I'll be able to go back here in Zhejiang!" Boqing laughed and said, "Don't worry, Chuqing. I have a perfect solution. I heard you'll be taking up your post in Hangzhou soon, but you still need to return to your original post in Huzhou. Coincidentally, Tian is ordered to inspect the canal work. You can postpone your return and ask him to recommend you to work on the project. After the work is done, you'll be promoted and rewarded. At that time, you can also ask him to grant you a year or two off." "Go back to Nanjing and do whatever you want." Erlang was overjoyed upon hearing this, and immediately stood up and bowed deeply to Boqing, saying, "Thank you for your guidance. I don't care about any promotion, I just want a convenient way to go back to Nanjing." He then turned to Conglong and bowed, saying, "Everything depends on Tian's help, and I am always grateful to you." Conglong smiled and waved his hand, saying, "Wait, wait! Although you said you didn't seek a promotion, since you've come with me, after the project is completed, there will be a recommendation from the people's congress. How can I leave you out? In that case, how could you..." "Isn't this a win-win situation for both the public and private interests? Such a good thing shouldn't be given to you so easily. Explain it to Boqing, how will Chuqing thank me?" Erlang immediately stood up with a smile and said, "Since you, sir, are willing to help me, I only ask for your instructions, and I will obey without question!" Conglong said, "Boxiao, listen to such sharp words, it's quite disgusting!" Boqing laughed and said, "It's not good for you to be in the fields, how can a dignified imperial envoy ask for thanks? Since you offered a bribe first, it's no wonder Chuqing and you are so sharp-tongued." The three of them chatted and laughed for a while, then Conglong got up to take his leave, and Erlang also returned to his own office.
The next day, Conglong went to discuss with the governor the selection of several people familiar with the pond work, including Erlang, and jointly petitioned to be assigned to the work. He also sent a messenger to the governors of Zhejiang and Fujian to come and handle the matter. Just then, the governor of Hangzhou arrived, and Erlang quickly finished his instructions and prepared a separate residence to settle his family. He also hurriedly packed his bags so that he could go with Conglong to the capital. Within a few days, the imperial edict arrived, and the matter was resolved as instructed. Conglong, together with the governor, chose an auspicious day to depart, taking his entourage of officials. They first inspected the thirty coastal dikes in succession. They also dispatched officials to inspect different areas, determining where repairs and blockages were necessary, to be reassessed upon the return of the inauspicious spirits. A day later, the officials submitted their reports and maps of key locations. At this time, the governor and other officials were all present at the construction site. They discussed and finalized the regulations, then jointly submitted a memorial, reporting the construction dates and the allocation of funds from the treasury. Officials were also assigned to each section to hire laborers and supervise the construction. Conglong also visited the construction sites, observing the diligence and laziness of the workers.
Meanwhile, after assigning his section, Conglong began construction, assessing the terrain and building accordingly. Every day, no fewer than a thousand laborers carried out their tasks methodically. Moreover, the coastal dikes and embankments were mostly constructed by stonemasons, requiring the gathering of craftsmen. Given the scale of the project, every official present was eager to profit, constantly seeking to prolong the work. It was inevitable that the hired laborers would submit underreported expenses. Only Erlang, however, was impatient for immediate completion, both to fulfill the emperor's trust and to satisfy his own selfish desires. Seeing his colleagues so slacking off, he grew impatient, thinking, "Their only intention is to exert their strength. It will take three or five years to satisfy their greed. How can I tolerate this? I'd better rush the work; then they'll have to follow my lead." Having made up his mind, he ordered the foreman to hire more laborers, increase wages and rewards, and to work day and night. He himself braved wind and rain, inspecting the work site daily. Anyone found slacking off was immediately punished. His system of rewards and punishments was truly strict and uncompromising. Little did he know that the men harbored a different mindset. He didn't realize that although the wages for working day and night were more than double that of other sections, and there were also bonuses, he only resented that Erlang wouldn't allow them to slack off. They complained incessantly in twos and threes behind his back, yet dared not disobey orders. They only sought quick results, completely disregarding the terrain and the sturdiness of the materials. The foreman, also pressured by Erlang, had no choice but to make do. Erlang, not being very knowledgeable about water conservancy, and now harboring a desire for speed, was overjoyed to see them working together so diligently, expecting to finish in a few days.
That day, Erlang rose early, taking two personal servants to inspect the work. Around noon, suddenly a dark cloud rose in the northwest, quickly spreading out and obscuring the sun. Then a strong wind arose, the sky darkened considerably, and it seemed raining. The servants came up and asked him to return to the official residence to take shelter from the wind and rain. Erlang angrily said, "If I leave, these laborers will surely seek shelter from the rain. The unfinished work will collapse if the rain soaks it. Go quickly and tell them to finish before the rain starts. Once the top is sealed, they won't have to worry about the rain anymore. Give them extra rewards!" Seeing Erlang's anger, the servants dared not return and hurriedly went to fetch rain gear to serve him, first instructing the foreman to inform all the laborers.
In an instant, the wind howled more fiercely, and the rain followed, pouring down like a torrential downpour. The poor laborers, seeing Erlang still standing on the embankment, dared not seek shelter. They could only stand upright in the rain, digging and laying earth. They expended boundless strength, and by the time they reached the embankment, the soil was already soaked through. Even the newly laid stonemasons, swept away by the sudden downpour, staggered and cried out in distress. Although Erlang had rain gear to cover him, the rain was so heavy that he was soaked to the bone. Although it was early summer, the wind and rain were biting cold, and he felt he couldn't bear to see the craftsmen on the embankment, soaked to the bone like ghosts, and he couldn't bear it any longer. He ordered his servants to relay a message: "Everyone, take shelter for a while. Once the rain stops, come back and finish the work. Don't delay!" With that, he turned and went down the embankment with two servants. The craftsmen, hearing this, were as if granted a pardon; they all whistled and scattered.
Erlang returned to the office, changed his clothes, ate some food, and it was already dusk. After a short while, he lit the lamps, and the wind and rain outside grew even fiercer. Erlang sat by the window, lost in thought, listening to the howling wind and rain, and felt a growing fear. He was also worried about the unfinished project, which seemed to be going to waste all night. He didn't know when this storm would end, and his heart was filled with anxiety. He managed to sit for a while longer, and was about to go to sleep when suddenly he heard a loud crash outside, as if the sky had collapsed. Erlang
was startled. Instantly, he heard a commotion all around, realizing that something had happened at the construction site. Just as he was about to call someone out to investigate, the foreman rushed in and reported, "Last night, the north wind whipped up the tide, raising it by four or five feet. It washed away a section of the work that wasn't finished today, widening it by several dozen feet. Even the neighboring sections were shaken and were in grave danger. Now, much of the tide is flooding into the dike, and nearby residents are fleeing. All the officials are at the construction site, supervising the laborers in their efforts to protect the dike. They've come to ask for instructions on how to proceed." Upon hearing this, Erlang broke out in a cold sweat and stamped his feet repeatedly, saying, "What's going on? Of all times, the wind and rain have come down. If we wait any longer, I'm sure it's the heavens working against me!" Several fast horses were already prepared outside to deliver the message. Erlang quickly led his servants, mounted them, and rode straight to the construction site.
From afar, the lights on the dike were as numerous as stars, and the shouts of the craftsmen rushing to reinforce it filled the air. The sound of the rushing water was like a raging torrent. The surrounding villages were filled with the cries of children and the wailing of the poor.
Erlang stamped his foot on his horse, filled with self-reproach: "It's all my fault for handling things poorly, causing these innocent people to suffer this calamity. How can I repay the kindness of the officials entrusted with this task?" He whipped his horse again, and upon reaching the dike, he hurriedly dismounted. Officials from neighboring sections quickly surrounded him, some discussing how to hasten the reinforcement, others complaining that he shouldn't have been so eager for quick results, leading to this unexpected turn of events. Some, envious of him, were getting their wish, offering sarcastic and mocking remarks from the sidelines.
Erlang had no time to argue with them. He rushed to the breach and saw that it was indeed several dozen feet wide. The water outside the dike poured in like rolling silver and jade. It was high tide, and the current was exceptionally fierce. Seeing this, Erlang was at a loss and sighed, "Even if we could manage to build a fortified position, we would still have to bear the consequences. Besides, with such a raging torrent of water, where would we even begin? We might as well go and discuss it with Zaitian and see what his plan is. I'd rather lose my position as prefect than suffer the consequences if half the sky collapses." He then ordered his servants to bring his horse, and without informing anyone, he mounted it and headed towards the imperial carriage.
By this time, it was already dawn. Conglong, who had been waiting at the camp for some time and had heard the news, was quite surprised. Upon hearing that Erlang had arrived, he immediately invited him inside to meet. After they met, he asked about the current situation. Erlang gave him a detailed account. Upon hearing this, Conglong remained silent for a long time before saying, "This time, requesting you to join the construction has only burdened you, and even I have been punished. Your punishment is self-evident. Fortunately, the provincial governor and viceroy have both returned to their offices because the construction still needs time to complete, so I can still smooth things over for you. In short, it's up to your luck!" Erlang laughed and said, "Even now, those in Tian are not truly understanding me. When I was in Huai'an, I didn't care about fame or fortune. Do you think I've become another Feng Chuqing? You must not let personal feelings interfere; you must act impartially. Don't let outsiders say that you and I are old friends, that you're protecting me, or that you're plotting something behind my back. That wouldn't be you causing me trouble, but me causing you trouble." Conglong nodded in agreement and immediately sent word outside to wait for someone to go to the construction site to oversee the work. Erlang also went along.
Before long, they arrived at the construction site, where all the officials came to greet them. Conglong alighted from his sedan chair and went to the embankment. He saw that the water had calmed, partly because the wind and rain had stopped, and partly because the tide had receded; it was only a temporary flood, not comparable to the autumn flood. Conglong was somewhat relieved and ordered all the workers to stop their work and focus on repairing the breached embankment. He warned that if the tide returned and loosened the foundation, it would be difficult to repair. He himself sat in front of the embankment to supervise the work, and the workers, seeing Conglong there, eagerly volunteered. In about two hours, the breach was sealed, ensuring that even if the night tide came again, it would be unimpeded. Conglong gave further instructions before returning to his headquarters. He also instructed the local officials to investigate the affected residents and provide them with proper compensation. The work section was given a replacement, and Erlang was relieved of his post. He then consulted with the governor and viceroy, and submitted a joint memorial to the throne.
The next day, Erlang came to say goodbye and returned to Hangzhou to await further instructions. Several days later, Conglong received an imperial edict: "According to the memorial submitted by the governor and others, the current prefect of Huzhou, Feng Bao, was guilty of greed for merit and ruined affairs, and deserves to be dismissed from his post. However, considering his integrity during his previous tenure, all the money spent on the dike construction will be graciously exempted from compensation. As for the governor and others' request for further investigation, this matter need not be discussed." Conglong immediately informed Erlang, who, upon receiving the letter, came in to inform Xiaodai, and to make preparations for their departure. Xiaodai, usually a magnanimous person, was also happy to hear that she was returning to Nanjing and would continue living with the other ladies. She busied herself with preparing her luggage with Mu Shi, ready to depart.
At this time, the people of Hangzhou and Huzhou, upon hearing that Erlang had been dismissed from office, all sighed with regret. Several prominent gentry members gathered to see him off. On the day of Erlang's departure, they all gathered on the riverbank to await him. Erlang humbly greeted them for a while before boarding his boat and setting sail.
Since Yun Conglong had impeached Erlang, fearing further negligence among the officials and unable to afford further delays, he dispatched two honest and reliable attendants to inspect the work, and personally visited the construction sites frequently. All the officials knew that Erlang and Conglong were close friends, yet he still upheld the law and impeached them; they also knew Conglong was upright and incorruptible, showing no favoritism. Therefore, everyone worked diligently and carefully. By mid-July, all the coastal dike construction projects in Zhejiang Province were completed, and reports were submitted one after another. Conglong personally oversaw the projects with utmost impartiality, issuing a report to the emperor to celebrate the successful completion of the project and to reward the officials accordingly. He also consulted the relevant departments for verification of all the necessary documents and records, and after completing these procedures, he departed for Hangzhou to await further instructions.
As it happened, he met Bo Xiao on the way. Bo Xiao already knew the reason why Erlang had missed work and been impeached. He smiled and said to Conglong, "Chuqing originally intended to return to Nanjing after completing the work, but now his wish has been fulfilled. It's just that he has to return after being dismissed from his post, which is difficult for him. Fortunately, he still has little desire for his former reputation, so it seems there's nothing he can't get over." Conglong also smiled and said, "According to what you said, I didn't impeach him, but rather helped him. Shouldn't Chuqing be grateful to me? I'm afraid he's secretly resenting me!" The two talked for a while, but since they were both on the road and it was inconvenient to stay long, they parted ways.
When Conglong arrived in Hangzhou, the memorial had just returned. "The officials have been rewarded as requested. All the governors and ministers of this province have been promoted three ranks and handed over to the Ministry for preferential treatment. It is said that Conglong has been summoned to the capital for an audience with the Emperor, where there will be another imperial decree." Upon seeing this, Conglong hurriedly packed his bags and headed north. But let's leave that aside for now.
The next day, Erlang arrived in Nanjing and immediately ordered his servants to escort his luggage and other belongings directly to Huifang Garden. He and Xiaodai followed shortly after. Xiaoru and Wang Lan had already received the news and came to greet him. Inside, Madam Fang and others also welcomed Xiaodai in and cleaned out their old residence for her to settle in.
After exchanging greetings with everyone, Xiao Ru and the others first expressed their grievances and offered words of comfort. Erlang, however, remained calm and composed, saying, “When I first took up my post in Huai’an Prefecture, it was an unexpected honor. Later, due to some incident, I was demoted, and I intended to retire from public life. Who knew that the other day, I was recommended by Prime Minister Li, and I was also deeply grateful for the Emperor's boundless grace, who did not disregard my humble abilities and appointed me to guard Huzhou. I originally intended to retire and return to my hometown in the next few years. Just then, Tian came to oversee the seawall project, and I willingly went with him, so I thought I could use this opportunity to request retirement. But then, a storm broke out overnight, and the seawall collapsed. This is my own fault, and I have no one else to blame! Besides, it was Tian's duty to impeach me; how could I let personal matters interfere with public duty? From now on, I will relinquish this minor reputation and become a free spirit, roaming freely. Why should I spend my days chasing after fame and fortune?” "It's so vulgar. And you all live a life of pleasure in Nanjing, which is truly enviable. When I first heard what Zaitian said, I wanted to return temporarily, and now my wish has been fulfilled. And now it's exactly as I wanted, except that I've given up worldly fame, which has brought me no loss. I, Feng Chuqing, am still Feng Chuqing as I always have been. You didn't think I resented Zaitian, and I'm actually grateful to Zaitian." Upon hearing this, Wang Lan slapped the table and exclaimed, "Although Chuqing has been in the world of fame and fortune, he hasn't been tainted by any vices. He truly deserves to be called one of us!" Erlang then stood up and said, "Let's go to Duoyan Tower. I've heard of its reputation for a long time. Now that I'm back in Nanjing, I want to see what kind of people the musicians are—only then will I feel at ease." Xiao Ru and Wang Lan also came along. As they passed the Red Fragrance Courtyard, they heard the melodious flute music and clear singing voices carried on the wind, which were intoxicating. Upon entering, they saw a group of children sitting on the steps, rehearsing their usual songs. Seeing them enter, the children quickly rose to greet them. Wu Guan pointed to Erlang and said, "This is Master Feng, the one we often call 'Handsome Erlang'." Hearing this, the children all smiled and came over to greet Erlang. Erlang, while pulling them back, turned and jokingly scolded Wu Guan, "You mischievous devil, always trying to tease people! Do you think they don't know my nickname? I insist you tell them it out loud, so tomorrow I'll make up a nickname for you too!" Wu Guan laughed, "Go ahead and make one up, I won't be as suspicious as you." They chatted and laughed as they reached the bottom of the stairs.
Qin Guan and the others, having also received the news, hurried down to meet Erlang. Erlang looked at the crowd and only nodded in approval. Wang Lan said, "Tomorrow I'll host a show for you. You praised them highly when you saw them, and you'll praise them even more when you see them perform." It turned out that Xiao Ru and Wang Lan had recently discussed building a stage in front of the artificial hill downstairs for everyday banquets. For celebrations or when the women wanted to perform, a stage would be built further inside.
The next day, Wang Lan ordered a banquet to be prepared to welcome Erlang. Everyone sat at the entrance, facing the stage, and indeed had a very clear view. A short while later, the gong sounded. Whenever... Each time someone stepped onto the stage, Erlang would applaud, and then distribute the silks brought from Zhejiang Province to the musicians and others until the night watchman's drum sounded. Next, Xiaoru, Meixian, and Wuguan took turns entertaining Erlang. The ladies inside also prepared a feast to welcome Xiaodai. The busyness lasted until the Mid-Autumn Festival, the details of which need not be elaborated.
That day, Erlang rose early, strolling to find Wuguan for a chat, and also intending to pick a few branches of osmanthus to take home and arrange in a vase. Upon arriving at Conggui Villa, he saw the young boy who accompanied Wuguan come up and say, "Fifth Master and Master Jin have gone to the musician's place." Erlang immediately turned and headed towards Duoyan Tower. Entering the courtyard, he saw Yu'er and a group of children playing hide-and-seek. Yu'er happened to be there, seeing him with a large red handkerchief tied around his face, groping around aimlessly. The children were hiding in front of or behind him. Suddenly looking up and seeing Erlang approach, the crowd was about to greet him when Erlang quickly waved his hand to stop them. Seeing Yu'er's appearance, they couldn't help but laugh. Yu'er, hearing someone laughing beside her, grabbed the handkerchief and pulled it off. Seeing it was Erlang, she couldn't help but laugh. She said, "What are you doing here? I'm really unlucky today, I've been caught so many times. It's rare to catch you like this. Who told you to come? You can be the one to catch me!" Without waiting for Erlang's reply, she used the handkerchief to blindfold him, then pushed him from behind, saying, "Go ahead and grope around carefully, but don't bump into a pillar or an old man's nose. I won't care." "Saying this, he also dodged away. The children, seeing Erlang standing there, couldn't stop laughing.
Erlang stood in the courtyard and laughed, 'I haven't done this business for twenty days, let me try it today!' He then called to Yu'er and asked, 'Are you here? Don't let me hide so I can't touch you!' Yu'er said, 'Of course I'm here! Go ahead and touch me.' Hearing Yu'er speak from the side, Erlang rushed forward to grab her, and Yu'er jumped away in panic. The children also hurriedly dodged, laughing even more loudly. At this time, Mei Xian, Wu Guan, Qin Guan, and others were also watching from the entrance of the building. Seeing Erlang running around and touching things in the courtyard, they all burst into laughter."
Just then, Xiao Ru and Wang Lan entered. Xiao Ru laughed, "Chu Qing, how can you fool around with a bunch of kids like this? It's a joke!" Erlang seized the opportunity to grab Xiao Ru and Wang Lan, saying, "You've got two of them!" He then took off his handkerchief and tossed it to Yu'er, saying, "Tell them to go on the spot, I don't care." He then went downstairs and sat down to catch his breath. Xiao Ru, Wang Lan, and the other children also entered, laughing. Mei Xian and the others also came downstairs. Wu Guan smiled at Erlang and said, "I didn't know you had such a clever trick up your sleeve. Let's play hide-and-seek for a bit." Erlang shook his head and said, "Spare me! I've only played a couple of rounds, and you can tell I'm already out of breath. If we play any more, you might fall asleep!" This made Xiao Ru and the others laugh again.
Just then, a servant brought in a letter and reported, "Someone from the Second Master of Jiangxi has arrived." He then presented the letter. Xiao Ru took the letter and, seeing it was in Ren Shou's handwriting, quickly unfolded it to examine it. What does Chen Ren Shou have to say in this letter? We'll find out in the next installment.

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【Illustrated Record of Fragrance】【75】【Author: Qingzhu Qiu】

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