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20210601 culture5

2021-06-15T14:16:02Z

Yao Yang: /* Frolics of the Five Animals */

'''Final Exam Paper Page. Please write now here and improve until grading on 2021 06 15'''
*Link to return to [[Foundations_of_Chinese_Cultures_2021|Course Homepage]].
*Link to the other Final Exam paper pages: [[20210601_culture|Final Exams 1 Bào Qìnwén 鲍沁雯 - Dù Xīnyǔ 杜心语]]; [[20210601_culture2|Final Exams 2 Guō Yàbō 郭亚波 - Huáng Zǐlóng 黄梓龙]]; [[20210601_culture3|Final Exams 3 Lǐ Yìhào 李艺浩 - Sū Xiāo 苏潇]]; [[20210601_culture4|Final Exams 4 Tāng Huì 汤惠 - Wáng Qìnyú 王沁瑜]]; [[20210601_culture5|Final Exams 5 Wáng Zǐhán 王子涵 - Zhào Kē 赵轲]].

1. Every student should write a new English text on a phenomenon in Chinese culture as a new chapter in the text book. Please also make a comparisons to similar or different cultural phenomenons in Europe and/or the USA.

2. Please find a paper you want to proof read, contact the author, proof read (by copying each paragraph and make corrections/suggestions in the copy) and sign until May 25. The author then finalizes (works in the suggestions) until the final deadline June 1! Please proof read a fellow students' paper by copying each paragraph and make your corrections in the paragraph. In a final step, the original author of the paper has to decide, what of the corrections he/she will accept and work into the paper. The final version submitted on the deadline should not carry any of the fellow student's paragraphs and comments.

*You can use the texts in the coursebook as an example (like Unit 1, Text A). You only need to write Text A (like "Longevity Noodles") or Text B ("Mooncakes"), not a whole Unit. But please try to find fellow students who topics fit under the same Unit title ("Festival Meals") and arrange it accordingly.
*In the topic, please write the category, then the topic - your name and student no.
*For the text, please indicate ALL SOURCES with bibliographical references. That means: At least for every paragraph, sometimes for single sentences, you have to indicate at the end, where you have found this information. E.g. (Liu Miqing 2010, 17). This means you have found it in the book or paper written by Ms Liu on page 17.
*Add a section at the end called "References". There you write the full version of the reference: Liu Miqing 刘宓庆. (2010). ''翻译基础'' [Translation Basis]. Shanghai: East China Normal University 华东师范大学. Similarly, you do it for papers: Jin Wenlu`靳文璐. (2019). 机器翻译可以取代人工翻译吗? [Can machine translation replace human translation?]. ''智库时代'' Think Tank Times (40) 282-284.
*Please also add a list "Terms and Expressions".
*Please add a "Questions" section.
*Please add a "Answers" section.

This is the the first page with the final exam papers.

Please write another chapter of the textbook on any cultural phenomenon in China.

=Wáng Zǐhán 王子涵= Tai Chi(taijiquan)

=Wang Zihan 王子涵= Tai Chi（Taijiquan）

= Chinese Martial Arts: Tai Chi - Wáng Zǐhán 王子涵 201930096017 =

== Introduction ==
Tai Chi (also known as T'ai Chi Ch'uan or Taijiquan) is one of the major branches of the traditional Chinese martial arts. Its name is derived from the philosophical term, “Tai Chi,” the first known written reference of which appeared in the Book of Changes over 3000 years ago during the Zhou Dynasty (1100-1221 BC). In this book it says that “in all changes exists Tai Chi, which causes the two opposites in everything.” Tai Chi means the ultimate of ultimate, often used to describe the vastness of the universe. (Dr Paul Lam 2006, 1-10)

The essential principles of Tai Chi are based on the ancient Chinese philosophy of Taoism, which stresses the natural balance in all things and the need for living in spiritual and physical accord with the patterns of nature. According to this philosophy, everything is composed of two opposites, but entirely complementary, elements of yin and yang, working in a relationship which is in perpetual balance. Tai Chi consists of exercises equally balanced between yin and yang, which is why it is so remarkably effective. (Dr Paul Lam 2006, 1-10)

== Major Styles ==
Based on Qigong and martial art techniques from thousands of years ago, Chen Wangting developed the Chen Style Tai Chi around 1670. At present, there are five major styles of Tai Chi. Each of them is named after the corresponding Chinese family from which the styles originate. They are Chen Style by Chen Wangting, Yang Style by Yang Luchan, Wu Style by Wu Yuxiang, Wu Style by Wu Jianquan and Sun Style by Sun Lutang.
Based on Controlled Breathing Exercise and martial art techniques from thousands of years ago, Chen Wangting developed the Chen Style Tai Chi around 1670. At present, there are five major styles of Tai Chi, and each of them is named after the corresponding Chinese family from which the styles originate. They are Chen Style by Chen Wangting, Yang Style by Yang Luchan, Wu Style by Wu Yuxiang, Wu Style by Wu Jianquan and Sun Style by Sun Lutang.--[[User:Wu Siyi|Wu Siyi]] ([[User talk:Wu Siyi|talk]]) 15:53, 14 June 2021 (UTC)
''' (1) Chen Style '''

Chen Style is characterized by its emphasis on spiral force. Its movements are similar to other martial arts. Slow and soft movements intermix with fast and hard ones. It contains explosive power and low stances. Chen Style is rich with combat techniques that are practical and effective, making it more suitable for younger people.

''' (2) Yang Style '''

The most popular style out of the bunch, the Yang style is widely practiced around the globe. Yang style is characterized by gentle, graceful and slow movements, which are easier to learn and promote health.
As the most popular style out of the bunch, the Yang style is widely practiced around the globe. It is characterized by gentle, graceful and slow movements, which are easier to learn and promote health.--[[User:Wu Siyi|Wu Siyi]] ([[User talk:Wu Siyi|talk]]) 15:53, 14 June 2021 (UTC)

''' (3) Wu Style '''

Also referred to as “The 1st Wu style”, it is the result of the combination of Yang and Chen styles. The movements are done in smaller frames with slow, smooth movements and a high posture.

''' (4) Wu Style '''

Dubbed as the “The 2nd Wu style”, it is the second most popular style practiced today. The defining differences of this style are in its hand form, pushing hands and weapons trainings. It is characterized by softness and emphasis on redirecting incoming force. It is also rich with hand techniques.

''' (5) Sun Style '''

This style focuses on smooth, flowing movements that exclude the more rigorous physical movements found in the other four styles, such as crouching and leaping. Due to its extra gentleness, it is most suitable to be used for physical therapy.

== Health Benefits ==
When learned correctly and performed regularly, Tai Chi can be a positive part of an overall approach to improving health. The benefits of Tai Chi may include:

''' (1) Physical and Mental Health '''

Several cross-sectional studies indicated that older adults who practiced Tai Chi regularly reported better mental and physical health, (Li 2010, 5) mental well-being, (Zhang 2020, 865-871) flexibility, (Zhu 2007, 355-357) reaction time, walking speed, and mobility compared to people who did not practice Tai Chi. (Wang 2004, 1128)

''' (2) Balance and Fall Prevention '''

Tai Chi movements are steady and slow, shifting from one side to the other with coordinating upper body movements. These movements help the core regain balance and reduces the risk of falling in elderly. (Jin 2005, 44-48)

''' (3) Strength and Endurance '''

Researches show that individuals who practiced Tai Chi at least 3 times a week on the regular, had higher strength and performance level. (Hu 2012, 51)

''' (4) Chronic Illness Prevention '''

Tai Chi helps in the treatment chronic illnesses like heart disease, blood pressure, arthritis, digestive disorders, depression and a few others. (Cui 2004, 1132)

''' (5) Respiratory System Regulation '''

Breathing is one of the three parts of Tai Chi. The deep breathing helps treat respiratory alignments such as asthma, bronchitis, and emphysema. (Feng 2019, 87-90)

''' (6) Aerobic Capacity '''

Aerobic capacity diminishes as we age, but research on traditional forms of aerobic exercise shows that it can improve with regular training. Investigators found that individuals who practiced Tai Chi for one year (classical yang style with 108 postures) had higher aerobic capacity than sedentary individuals around the same age. The authors state that Tai Chi may be a form of aerobic exercise. (Feng 2019, 87-90)
Aerobic capacity diminishes as we age, but research on traditional forms of aerobic exercise shows that it can improve with regular training. Investigators found that individuals who practiced Tai Chi for one year (classical yang style with 108 postures) had higher aerobic capacity than sedentary individuals around the same age.Therefore, Tai Chi may be a form of aerobic exercise.--[[User:Wu Siyi|Wu Siyi]] ([[User talk:Wu Siyi|talk]]) 15:56, 14 June 2021 (UTC)

== Terms and Expressions ==

Tai Chi 太极拳

The Book of Changes 《易经》

Chen Style 陈式太极拳（陈王廷）

Yang Style 杨式太极拳（杨露禅）

Wu Style (the 1st) 武式太极拳（武禹襄）

Wu Style (the 2nd) 吴式太极拳（吴鉴泉）

Sun Style 孙式太极拳（孙禄堂）

Chronic illness 慢性疾病

Arthritis 关节炎

Digestive disorders 消化不良;消化疾病;消化系统紊乱

Asthma 哮喘

Bronchitis 支气管炎

Emphysema 肺气肿

Aerobic capacity 有氧能力;有氧运动能力

== Questions ==

1. What ancient Chinese philosophy is Tai Chi based on?

2. What are the 5 main types of Tai Chi?

3. When did Chen Wangting develop the Chen Style Tai Chi?

4. Which Tai Chi style is the most popular?

5. What are the characteristics of Wu Style (the 2nd Wu Style)?

6. How many benefits of Tai Chi are mentioned in this article? What are they?

7. Why is Tai Chi good for balance and fall prevention?

== Answers ==

1. Taoism.‬

2. They are Chen Style, Yang Style, Wu/Hao Style, Wu Style and Sun Style.

3. Around 1670.

4. Yang Style.

5. It is characterized by softness and emphasis on redirecting incoming force. It is also rich with hand techniques.

6. Six. They are physical and mental health, balance and fall prevention, strength and endurance, chronic illness prevention, respiratory system regulation, aerobic capacity.

7. Because Tai Chi movements are steady and slow, shifting from one side to the other with coordinating upper body movements. These movements help the core regain balance and reduces the risk of falling in elderly.

== References ==
[1] Dr Paul Lam and Nancy Kayne保罗·林博士和南希·凯恩. (2006). Tai Chi for Beginners and the 24 Forms[太极拳初学者与24式太极拳]. Limelight Press[利姆莱特出版社] 1-10.

[2] Dr Paul Lam保罗·林博士. (2006). Teaching Tai Chi Effectively[有效的太极拳教学]. Tai Chi Productions[太极拳制作公司] 1-15.

[3] Wang Gang 王岗. (2001). 太极拳对现代人心理调节的作用[Functions of shadowboxing to psychological adjustment of modern men].武汉体育学院学报[Journal of Wuhan Institute of Physical Education]. (1)107-108.

[4] Li Guoping, Fang Yanchun, Zhang Yingjie, Duan Gongxiang 李国平,方艳春,张颖杰,段功香. (2010).太极拳运动对中老年人身心健康的影响[Effect of Tai Chi intervention on physical and mental health of middle-aged and elderly population]. 护理学杂志[Journal of Nursing Science] (2) 5-7.

[5] Zhang Qi, Song Huimin, Cao Rui, Sun Xue, Jin Yi 张琪,宋慧敏,曹睿,孙雪,金奕. (2020).太极拳对轻度认知障碍老年人认知功能干预效果的Meta分析[Effects of Tai Chi on cognitive function for aged with Mild Cognitive Impairment: a Meta-analysis]. 中国护理管理[Chinese Nursing Management] (6) 865-871.

[6] Zhu Jiaxin 朱家新. (2007). 太极拳对老年人心理健康的影响研究[Research on the Influence of Taijiquan on Senior Citizens′ Mental Health]. 湖北体育科技[Journal of Hubei Sports Science] (3) 355-357.

[7] Wang Li, Wang Sen 王利,王森. (2004). 太极拳锻炼对中老年人心理因素影响分析[Effect of shadowboxing on the psychological factors in middle and aged people]. 中国临床康复Chinese Journal of Clinical Rehabilitation (6)1128-1129.

[8] Jin Changlong, Ban Yusheng 金昌龙,班玉生. (2005). 太极拳练习对中老年人静态平衡能力的影响[Effect of Taijiquan Exercise on Middle and Old-aged Persons' Static Balance Ability]. 上海体育学院学报Journal of Shanghai Physical Education Institute (1)44-48.

[9] Hu Zhendong, Zhao Xianqing 胡振东,赵先卿. (2012). 太极拳运动对健康体适能的影响[Tai Chi for Health Fitness Influence]. 淮北师范大学学报(自然科学版) [Journal of Huaibei Normal University (Natural Science Edition)] (2)51-55.

[10] Cui Dongxue崔冬雪. (2004). 太极拳运动对老年人心血管功能的影响及机制探讨[Effects of shadowboxing on cardiovascular functions in old people and its mechanism]. 华东师范大学Shanghai: East China Normal University. 中国临床康复[Chinese Journal of Clinical Rehabilitation] (6)1132-1133.

[11] Feng Wei冯卫. (2019). 健康中国背景下太极拳健身功效研究[Research on the Fitness Efficiency of Tai Chi under the Background of “Healthy China”]. 广州体育学院学报[Journal of Guangzhou Sport University] (1) 87-90.

=Wǔ Sīyí 伍斯仪 Shu Embroidery (Sichuan Embroidery)=
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==Introduction==
[[File:"shu".jpg|300px|right|(https://img.henan.gov.cn/da73c2f49b89def7e36153a1a784f423?p=0)]]

"Shu" was a beautiful and rich land in Chinese ancient times. In the book Origin of Chinese Characters(Shuo Wen Jie Zi), it explained that the character "Shu" looked like a silkworm crawling on a wide leaf. And in 12 types of oracle bone inscriptions, the character "Shu" also had the image of silkworm, which obviously expressed the relationship between "Shu" and silkworm. What's more, there were many legends that showed that Shu was the birthplace of silkworms and the kingdom of silk. For thousands of years, the silk civilization of ancient Shu bred advanced silk weaving technology, which not only provided raw materials——silk and silk threads for Shu Embroidery, which laid a solid foundation for the development of Shu embroidery; but also created an industrial and cultural environment for the development and prosperity of Shu embroidery.(Zhao Min 2011)

==History and Development==
Shu embroidery, also called "Sichuan embroidery", mainly refers to embroidery in Chengdu-centered Sichuan Plain. Due to cultural and geographical factors, it also developed to the surrounding areas such as Chongqing. Shu embroidery and Xiang embroidery in Hunan, Yue embroidery in Guangdong, Su embroidery in Suzhou are called "Chinese four famous embroidery".

Shu embroidery was originated in the early Shang Dynasty. In the Spring and Autumn Warring States Period, the most developed textile industry was in Qilu area. With Qin gradually decreasing the six countries, the center of textile biased towards the ancient Shu. Besides, people's demand for diversity in clothing had made embroidery and brocade develop side by side, and produced the unique "brocade stitch" of Shu embroidery. In the Three Kingdoms Period, the nobles rushed to buy the splendid fabrics of Shu, so Shu embroidery became a symbol of wealth and status. At that time, Shu Embroidery was even used to exchange for carriages and horses to prepare for war. With the trade on the Silk Road, the demand for silk fabrics surged. In Sui and Tang Dynasties, Shu Embroidery developed rapidly and reached its peak, its weaving and embroidering patterns were also greatly enriched. Among them, the pattern invented by Dou Shilun was widely adopted and popular.

The hedonics of the emperors of the Song Dynasty greatly stimulated the demand for embroidery and promoted its development. And affected by Central Plains Embroidery School, people tended to pay more attention to the decoration and artistry of Shu embroidery rather than its practicality. Therefore, a large number of Shu embroidery were created on the basis of calligraphy and paintings of celebrities in the Song Dynasty. In the Ming Dynasty, in order to restore economy, Zhu Yuanzhang took effective measures to develop industry and commerce. Thanks to this, traditional textile technology had developed by leaps and bounds. Especially cross-stitch work and drawnwork were appreciated by civilians for their durability. In the Qing Dynasty, the industry of Shu embroidery gradually developed from home handmade to market-oriented management. In the late Qing, Shu embroidery formed a production and sales distribution center in Chengdu. With the improvement of the quality and quantity of Shu embroidery, a large number of works were spread overseas, which greatly enhanced the popularity of Shu embroidery in the world. Although various wars in modern times had a huge impact on Shu embroidery, and its skills had once been on the verge of extinction, after the foundation of new China, Chinese government attached great importance to the revival of Shu embroidery. Construction of a large number of technical centers and cultural bases helped to maintain the cultural treasure for generations. (Zhao Min 2011 3-6).

Nowadays,the young generation have also contributed to the development and inheritance of Shu embroidery. What's more, extensive international exchanges and cultural dissemination let Shu embroidery shine home and abroad, making it possible for it to return to glory and prosperity.

==Characteristics==
===1. Material Selection===

The materials used in Shu embroidery are especially carefully selected, the base material is usually silk soft satin, the embroidery thread is silk thread, and there are two strands in one thread, eight silk threads in one velvet. Generally, Shu embroideries are made of silk, satin, spun silk, yarn and crepe, and the threads and materials used vary according to the needs of the embroideries.(Xia Fangsheng 2020)

===2. Embroidery Techniques===

According to statistics, there are 12 categories of stitches and more than 130 kinds of stitches in Shu embroidery, which is the richest among the four famous embroideries, and the 70 processes of exquisite "Yi Jin Thread" are even unique to Shu embroidery. Commonly used stitches include halo stitch, needle laying, needle rolling, needle cutting, needle blending, needle covering, etc. Halo stitch is one of the basic techniques of Shu embroidery and is often used to express the texture of the work, reflecting its light, color and shape, so that the embroidered work comes to life. There are single-sided embroidery, double-sided embroidery and double-sided triple-variant embroidery, among which double-sided triple-variant embroidery is the highest and most difficult expression of Shu embroidery techniques.(Wu You 2020)

===3. Classic Patterns===
[[File:furongjinli.jpg|400px|left|(https://tse4-mm.cn.bing.net/th/id/OIP.7S0tYGuD8A7Ua7AIAIEBmgAAAA?pid=ImgDet&rs=1)]]

[[File:panda.jpg|400px|middle|(https://th.bing.com/th/id/Rc0701668260e4682810a1b87106f8f01?rik=ADTIBAGgsTyBJw&riu=http%3a%2f%2fwww.eastimpression.com%2fshow8.asp%3fid%3d6494&ehk=wZfTcgCnGSQyWhYnShT0t8jK185t4jueFwe9%2fSAEfiE%3d&risl=&pid=ImgRaw)]]

[[File:golden snub-nosed monkey.jpg|200px|right|(https://th.bing.com/th/id/Rad710c0d7e1c3690b004974911eddc92?rik=5FP8xPueFc7P8g&riu=http%3a%2f%2fp1.pstatp.com%2flarge%2fpgc-image%2f1e02c6a2e40647d6becfc1d090a60440&ehk=zsT2ThZuZ6IQcoPshymuQXg2RCfv8aQGHVTE2JcARjI%3d&risl=&pid=ImgRaw]]

The themes of Shu embroidery works are mostly beautiful and auspicious objects, such as dragon and phoenix symbolizing nobility, mandarin ducks symbolizing a happy couple, butterflies symbolizing happy love, hibiscus flowers symbolizing prosperity and wealth, and carp symbolizing luck and good fortune.
What's more, Shu embroidery also often features rare animals unique to Sichuan, such as the panda and the golden snub-nosed monkey.(Wu Nan Wang Kangjian Chen Zhang Liu Cairong Zeng Rong Xiu Manling Zhu Lirong 2018))

===4. Color Matching===
[[File:wucai.jpg|300px|left|(https://th.bing.com/th/id/R11a8f770d045f8fcc2deadd914904287?rik=3F4%2bySpykgzKdA&riu=http%3a%2f%2fwww.zjaca.com%2fKUpload%2fimage%2f20190102%2f20190102143304_8643.jpg&ehk=UyRaNbZmJ1axrsYv5G4oqvVPTGvQ7LoGstst%2fp01o3Q%3d&risl=&pid=ImgRaw)]]

There are four basic color matching methods in Shu embroidery, namely the overlay color matching method, the single-color matching method, the upper five-color matching method and the lower five-color matching method. The first two color schemes are used to produce a simple and generous work with consistency and coherence. The upper color scheme is bright and vivid, while the lower color scheme is quiet, elegant, and not too bright.(Hang Jianqin 2017)

==Current Situation and Inheritance==

Although Shu embroidery is one of the four famous embroideries, it is much lower than Su embroidery and Xiang embroidery in terms of domestic consumption and foreign export sales. At present, most of the enterprises engaged in the creation of Shu embroidery are small in scale, with insufficient brand influence, backward talent training mechanism, and the problem of talent gap is prominent. Most of the embroideries on the market are mainly handicrafts, but there are few practical items.(Yang Dequan 2020)

For Shu embroidery to have a breakthrough, it should integrate Shu culture with imagination and storytelling on the basis of retaining its own characteristics, rather than purely catering to market tastes. The government should strengthen the market regulation of the cultural sector on Shu embroidery as a cultural heritage, encourage the development of local Shu embroidery enterprises as well as give more preferential policies. By developing Bashu culture, preserving Shu embroidery works and nurturing back-up talents, Shu embroidery is thus consistently protected and inherited.(Xue Xiaoqian Li Qiju 2015.07.15)

==References==
*Zhao Min赵敏.(2011). 古蜀丝绸文明[Ancient Shu Silk Civilization]. 中国蜀绣Chinese Shu Embroidery,四川科学技术出版社,2011.05, 1-50
*Xia Fangsheng夏方胜(2020). 成都蜀绣[Chengdu Shu Embroidery]. 《地方文化研究》Local Cultural Studies(6),2020
*Wu You吴忧(2020). 蜀绣纹样在文创产品中的创新性应用[Innovative Application of Shu Embroidery Patterns in Cultural and Creative Products]. 《西部皮革》Western Leather(3) 2020
*Wu Nan Wang Kangjian Chen Zhang Liu Cairong Zeng Rong Xiu Manling Zhu Lirong吴楠王康建陈政刘才容曾蓉徐曼玲朱利容(2018) 蜀绣纹样的美好寓意[The Bautiful Symbolism of Shu Embroidery Patterns]. 《纺织科技进展》Advances in Textile Science and Technology(12), 2018
*Hang Jianqin杭建琴(2017) 蜀绣与色彩[Shu Embroidery and Color]. 《天工》The Work of Heaven(2),2017
*Yang Dequan杨德全(2020)《现代艺术》"文艺百家"工程·文艺讲坛Modern Art" "100 Artists of Literature and Art" Project - Literature and Art Forum(7),2020,110-115
*Xue Xiaoqian Li Qiju薛晓倩李奇菊(2015) 浅谈蜀绣历史发展与保护[A Brief Introduction to the Historical Development and Conservation of Shu Embroidery]. 《民俗民风》Folk customs and folkways，2015.07.15 87-88

==Terms and Expressions==
Origin of Chinese Characters 说文解字

central Plains Embroidery School 中原绣派

cross-stitch work 挑花

drawnwork 抽纱绣

cottage handmade 家庭手工制作

market-oriented management 市场化经营

subject mater 题材

silk 绸

satin 缎

spun silk 绢

yarn 纱

crepe 绉

Stitch 针法

single-sided embroidery 单面绣

double-sided embroidery 双面绣

double-sided triple-variant embroidery 双面三异绣

the overlay color matching method 套色配色法

the single-color matching method 单色配色法

the upper five-color matching method 上五彩配色法

the lower five-color matching method 下五彩配色法

back-up talents 后备人才

==Questions==

1. When and where did Shu embroidery came into being?

2. What are the common used stitches of Shu embroidery?

3. What are the classic patterns of Shu embroidery?

4. How should Shu embroidery be inherited?

==Answers==

1.In the early Shang Dynasty; in Chengdu-centered Sichuan Plain.

2. Halo stitch, needle laying, needle rolling, needle cutting, needle blending, and needle covering.

3. Beautiful and auspicious objects, such as dragon and phoenix, mandarin ducks, butterflies, hibiscus flowers, panda and the golden snub-nosed monkey.

4. It should integrate Shu culture with imagination and storytelling on the basis of retaining its own characteristics, rather than purely catering to market tastes. The government should strengthen the market regulation of the cultural sector on Shu embroidery as a cultural heritage, encourage the development of local Shu embroidery enterprises as well as give more preferential policies

=Wuqinxi (Frolics of the Five Animals) - Wú Xīnxīn 吴欣欣 201930096026 =

== '''Introduction''' ==

[[File:wuhuhu.jpg|800px|right|（https://ss3.bdstatic.com/70cFv8Sh_Q1YnxGkpoWK1HF6hhy/it/u=2474219657,1530866572&fm=26&gp=0.jpg）]]
Frolics of animals originated in the period of Spring and Autumn, and the Warring States Period, from Frolics of the Two Animals, Frolics of the Three Animals to Frolics of Multiple Animals. Based on this, Hua Tuo developed the Wuqinxi (Frolics of the Five Animals), a series of exercises based on movements of the tiger, deer, bear, ape, and crane. These easy to do, fun to practice movements are very complete for physical conditioning and internal health and well. It now enjoys a high reputation all over the world. (Anhui Tourism Administration)

春秋战国: the Spring and Autumn Period and the Warring States Period--[[User:Yao Yang|Yao Yang]] ([[User talk:Yao Yang|talk]]) 14:03, 15 June 2021 (UTC)

== '''Founder''' ==

[[File:huatuo.jpg|200px|left|(file:///E:/%E8%AF%BE%E4%B8%9A/%E5%A4%A7%E4%BA%8C%E4%B8%8B/%E4%B8%AD%E5%8D%8E%E6%96%87%E5%8C%96%E5%9F%BA%E7%A1%80/%E6%9C%9F%E6%9C%AB%E8%AE%BA%E6%96%87%E5%9B%BE/%E5%8D%8E%E4%BD%97.jfif)]]

Hua Tuo was born in Qiao, present-day Anhui Province (present-day Haoxian County, Anhui Province), which is one of the four major distribution centers of Chinese medicinal materials. In the Chronicles of the Later Han Dynasty, it is said that: "Knowing well the way to keep one in good health, Hua Tuo still appeared in the prime of his life when he was almost 100, and so was regarded as immortal.(Subhuti Dharmananda, Ph.D., Director, Institute for Traditional Medicine, Portland, Oregon.)

Hua Tuo (141-208 CE) was a contemporary of Zhang Zhongjing. He traveled from town to town treating patients and learning from other doctor's practices. He is famous for his skill as a surgeon and his application of anesthesia. The anesthesia was given as a powder called mafeisan that was dissolved in a fermented drink before performing surgery. It has been suggested the powder may have been hemp since its uses were unknown at that time. In addition to surgeries, Hua Tuo also suggested that his patients should use physical exercise. He devised movements that were similar to the movements of five different animals. These were the tiger, deer, bear, monkey and bird. (Traditional Chinese Medicine History - Han Dynasty By Shen-Nong TCM)

== '''Frolics of the Five Animals''' ==

'''Tiger'''

Tiger Play is to imitate the shape and movement of a tiger. The features of a tiger are its ferocity, strong body, and good at jumping and scratching. The most important element in the Tiger Play is to imitate the awe inspiring attitude of a tiger. Its spirit is shown in its eyes and its awesomeness comes out of its craws. It stared at angry eyes and moved like wind. It twists its waist with force, wags head and swings tail, and vibrates its body. (Five Animal Frolics)

The tiger is an animal that is known for its speed, agility and external strength. Training under this form will develop the bones, joints, and tendons as it requires intricate coordinated movements. The body is trained in the manner where it holds in twisting stances to develop a coil like exertion. This centers the body to the ground and develops the legs to become more graceful yet deadly. This form is perhaps the most physically challenging of all the forms. Mastery of this form will strengthen the forearms, legs, torso and hands. (Tak Wah Eng, The Spirit of the Five Animals, p. 101. )

'''Deer'''

The Deer Play is to imitate the shape and movement of a deer hoping to attain long life and pure soul like a deer. The features of a deer are its gentle disposition, swift movement, love to push with horns, and good at running. When it stands it likes to stretch its neck to glance at things afar. The deer also likes looking at left and right and its rear foot. It is also good at moving its tail bones (sacrum). The tail bone is the place where the Jen and Du Meridians meet. Thus, during practice, the practitioner not only needs to imitate the attitude of a deer with swift movement and calm spirit, but also needs to focus attention on the tail bone. This will guide Qi to the whole body, open meridians, circulate blood, relax tendons and bones, and benefit kidney and strengthen waist. It can also enhance blood circulation in the abdomen. This play is suitable for curing dysfunctional nerves in the internal organs, chronicle infections of the internal organs in the abdomen, fatigue in the waist muscles, nerve pain in the pelvis, deteriorated thigh bones, and the lack of sex drives. (Five Animal Frolics)

“love of pushing with horns” or “preference for goring”--[[User:Yao Yang|Yao Yang]] ([[User talk:Yao Yang|talk]]) 14:16, 15 June 2021 (UTC)

[[File:ple.jpg|200px|right|(https://gimg2.baidu.com/image_search/src=http%3A%2F%2Fn.sinaimg.cn%2Fsinacn20%2F292%2Fw640h452%2F20180329%2Fca2e-fyssmmc3957070.jpg&refer=http%3A%2F%2Fn.sinaimg.cn&app=2002&size=f9999,10000&q=a80&n=0&g=0n&fmt=jpeg?sec=1626271004&t=48422f584b1ce63147f40e5808b5b4c2)]]

'''Bear'''

In general, bear forms emphasize turning, twisting, and bending at the waist; and a focus on the power of the shoulders and upper back when reaching, grabbing, and "clawing." Bear forms usually have the feet separated in a horse stance or lower lunges, which helps exercise (stretch and strengthen) the lower body.

Awkward looking but clear in mind. It walks with lightness inside heavy steps.
Gathering Qi at Middle Dantian. It shakes and rampages with force in the shoulders. The bear looks awkward and clumsy, soft as if without bones, its temperament is stable, simple and honest, and it walks with heavy steps. However, flexibility and steadiness are hidden within the heavy steps. Do not mimic the heavy, simple and hones bearing of the bear only, but also try to show the flexibility and steadiness during the exercise. Shaking and rocking are features of the bears' movements, so exert forces with the upper arms (including the shoulders, elbows, hands, hips, knees and feet). Conduct Qi to the Middle Dantian, so as to accelerate deep abdominal respiration and form Dantian Qi.
(Jiao Guorui, Qigong Essentials for Health Promotion, 1988, pp. 193-195)

'''Ape'''

The Ape Play is to imitate the shape and movements of an ape to show its alertness, agility, and constant movement. The features of an ape are its love to imitate, agile movements, good at picking fruit using upper limbs, and escaping attacks from other animals. You should not only practice the agility of your limbs on the outside, but also practice controlling your thoughts on the inside. The goal of the "Ape Play" is to reach a level of "pure and tranquil in thoughts, light but strong body, and "body is moving but mind is calm". This play will enhance the functions of the heart and lung and strengthen the kidney and waist. This play is suitable for people who are older, weaker or in low spirits. (Five Animal Frolics)

When performing the ape exercise, try to imitate the light and swift movements of the ape, but for the internal exercise you should keep your mind like a bright moon shining in the quiet and still night. So the ape exercise is externally dynamic and internally static.
(Wu Qin Xi, Chinese Health Qigong Association, 2007, p. 66)

'''Crane'''

The bird exercise involves imitating a crane, traditionally regarded in China as a symbol of calmness, litheness, and longevity. In the practice of this exercise, you should imitate a crane standing upright, with its beak uplifted and displaying a carefree and contented mood, as well as the relaxed manner with which it flaps its wings. Protrude the neck and stiffen the back to drive the flow of Qi upward when raising your arms. Contract the chest and relax the abdomen to drive the flow of Qi downward to Dantaian in the lower abdomen when bringing your arms together downward. The crane exercise can promote circulation of Qi and blood in all the meridians and improve the motility of all the limbs.
(Wu Qin Xi, Chinese Health Qigong Association, 2007, p. 79)

== '''Benefits''' ==
The "Frolics of the Five Animals" mimics the fierceness of tiger, peacefulness of deer, calmness of bear, agility of ape, and lightness of crane to train the body and mind. It can improve body strength, move blood and Qi, and relax tendons and meridians so people will not get aged quickly.
If you can practice it persistently, you will enjoy light spirit, enhanced appetite, improved agility, and firm steps. This has the functions of nurturing spirit, regulating the flow of Qi and blood, helping Jang and Fu, opening meridians, activating sinews and bones, and benefiting joints. The "Frolics of the Five Animals" is also effective in preventing and curing lung diseases, asthma, high blood pressure, heheart-crownisease, weak nerve system, and indigestion, etc. In addition, frequent practice of the "Five Animal-Frolics" can correct abnormal footings and walking postures, prevent wilting of muscles, and improve body balance. It is also beneficial to other symptoms. Practitioners should practice for 15 minutes twice daily, one in the morning and one in the evening. Also, the practitioner should select a field with fresh air and luxuriant vegetation.

'''Tiger''' - to develop muscular strength. The Tiger strengthens the waist, sinews and kidneys and builds internal power.

'''Deer''' - to develop grace and relaxation. The Deer gives a long stretch to the legs and spine, creating open, expansive movement with very flexible sinew and bones.

'''Bear''' - to develop rooted power. The Bear creates greater leg strength, fortifies the bones and develops energy in the kidneys, your fundamental source of vitality.

'''Ape''' - to develop suppleness and agility. Become quick witted, alert and nimble.

'''Crane''' - to develop balance, lightness and agility. The Crane cools and relaxes your whole body, balances the heart-energy, gently stretches your ligaments and releases your spine.

(Five Animal Frolics)

== '''Terms and Expressions''' ==

Frolics of the Five Animals 五禽戏

Hua Tuo 华佗

Chronicles of the Later Han Dynasty 《后汉书》

Chi-kung 气功

the Tiger Frolics 虎戏

the Deer Frolics 鹿戏

the Bear Frolics 熊戏

the Ape Frolics 猿戏

the Crane Frolics 鹤戏

curing lung diseases 肺病

asthma 哮喘

high blood pressure 高血压

indigestion 消化不良

to move blood and Qi 活血益气

to regulate the flow of Qi and blood 理气活血

== '''Questions''' ==

1.Who is the founder of Wuqinxi?

2.What animals does Wuqinxi imitate?

3.What does the crane symbolize in traditional Chinese culture?

4.What kind of play is externally dynamic and internally static?

5.What are the characteristics of the deer?

== '''Answers''' ==

1.Hua Tuo.

2.Tiger; Deer; Bear; Apt; Crane.

3.The Crane is traditionally regarded in China as a symbol of calmness, litheness, and longevity.

4.The ape exercise is externally dynamic and internally static.

5.The features of a deer are its gentle disposition, swift movement, love to push with horns, and good at running.

== '''References''' ==

[1] Anhui Tourism Administration 安徽省旅游局 http://www.chinadaily.com.cn/m/anhui/travel/2010-06/29/content_10036053.htm

[2]"Hua Tuo" by Subhuti Dharmananda, Ph.D., Director, Institute for Traditional Medicine, Portland, Oregon.

[3] Traditional Chinese Medicine History - Han Dynasty By Shen-Nong TCM. http://www.shen-nong.com/eng/history/qinhan.html

[4] Tak Wah Eng, The Spirit of the Five Animals, p. 101.

[5] Jiao Guorui焦国瑞, Qigong Essentials for Health Promotion, 1988, p. 193-195

[6] Chinese Health Qigong Association国家体育总局健身气功管理中心Wu Qin Xi《五禽戏》2007, p. 66 p. 79

[7] Five Animal Frolics

=Yāo Yáng 么阳 Chinese Traditional Cultivation Culture=
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==Introduction==
Chinese culture is established on the basis of cultivation. Different from the western Fishing-Hunting Culture and Nomadic Civilization, Chinese farming civilization flourishes in the fertile land between the Yellow River and the Yangtse River, which enables ancient Chinese to have steadier access to food. Every development of agriculture (mainly about planting) is followed by an increment of population, and more population, more food requirements. Then the circle forms, agricultural instruments and institutions must be improved sequentially.

==History==
About how the ancient Chinese learned to plant crops, there is a mythology: Shen Nong was a great leader of ancient Chinese. It was believed that the leader of Jiang tribe (where people’s last name was Jiang) got his throne for knowing how to use fire. Thus, each leader of this tribe was called “Emperor Fire”. Shen Nong was the first “Emperor Fire”. As a leader, Shen Nong had the responsibility to lead his people a better life. About his contributions, there are two famous events. One is “Shen Nong tastes hundreds of herbal medicine”, another is “Shen Nong plants 5 cereal grains” [1][2][[File:Img.51wendang.jpeg|200px|thumb|left|alt five cereal grains]]. Shen Nong whose name in Chinese means “God Farmer” is regarded as the origin of Chinese cultivation. And his story maybe a myth, but at least that proves Chinese people has been working on planting long, long ago. Here are some archaeological evidences:
The earliest discovery of ancient plants in China is the store of rices in the Hemudu Culture remains[3][4]. The cabonized rices weight 150 tons, which is discovered to have existed since 7000 years ago. Almost in the same era of Hemudu People, primitive people in Banpo remains planted earliest millet.

===The Development of Cultivation Technology===
In primitive age, Chinese use farm tools made of bones.[[File:Mmexport1623687318765.jpg|200px|thumb|left|alt 耒耜]]
In Shang Dynasty and Zhou Dynasty, iron farm tools （picture2[[File:IMG_20210615_152815.jpg|200px|thumb|left|alt 2]]）appeared. And cattle helped people to plow（picture3[[File:IMG_20210615_152805.jpg|200px|thumb|left|alt 3]]）. So killing a cattle for no reason is against the law.
In Western Han Dynasty, Louche, an animal-drawn seed plough, was invented.
In Eastern Han Dynasty, Bi Lan invented Fanche, Turn-Over Water Wheel[9][[Media:P1.ssl.qhimg.jpeg]].( Fanche can also be called as Loongbone Water Wheel. Through Fanche,the water is lifted from water to irrigate the cultivated land. It consists of long plank channel in which placed are dozens of the matched scraper blades(or wooden dipper)hinging end to end in order of circle. At the top and the bottom both have a toothed wooden shaft. The shaft above moves, and the blades spin. So the water is brought from bottom to top. Its power can get from people, animals or water.)
In Tang Dynasty, Quyuanli, crankshaft plough[6], was invented. The plough with incurved shafts was invented by Han people during the Tang Dynasty. It’s referred to as a crankshaft plough and it’s different from a plough that has a straight shaft. It was first popularized in Suzhou and it was known as a “Jiangdong plough.” Compared with the frame of the previous ploughs, the frame of a crankshaft plough is much smaller and lighter. It can easily make turns, making it more flexible to operate. This saves work time. Also, the water wheel is improved and becomes Tongche[[Media:Economy.guoxue.jpeg]].[9] (Tongche’s function is as same as Fanche, but it mainly uses water as its power and it does more than Fanche. Only in some dry areas, animal power is used. Erect a water wheel in the place where water run fast, the bottom soaked into the water and other parts exposed above. Some bamboo tubes are tied obliquely on the wheel. They are getting water with the spinning of the wheel. When they come to the highest point, the water is poured in the channel automatically, flowing into the field.). Southern rice were planted in the skill called Seedling Transplanting Cultivation. Raise rice seed to sprouts first, then move them to the fields. This increased the survival rate and output. The economic center became transfer from North to South.
The growth of crops has to do with water. To water the crops, ancient Chinese not only invented related machines mentioned above, but also built a lot of water conservancy projects. The most famous one is the Dujiang Dam ( also called the Dujiangyan irrigation system) built in 256 B.C. To this day, it still benefits the southwestern people.
The growth of crops has to do with the weather, too. The plants grow according to the nature time. The 24 solar terms is one of the conclusions of weather. Accurate time measures allowed ancient people to work and plant.
The summary of ancient people’s wisdom of agriculture kept to today has the great four books. They are Si Shengzhi Articles in Western Han Dynasty, Essentials of People’s Happiness in Southern Wei Dynasty, Agricultural Book in Yuan Dynasty and The complete book of agricultural administration in Ming Dynasty.

===The Kind of Crops===
In primitive age, Hemudu people and Banpo people began to plant rice and millet. China is the earliest country to plant rice and millet.
In Shang Dynasty and Zhou Dynasty, what we called five cereal grains today had been planted completely and people knew how to select good seeds.
In Tang Dynasty, after Zhang Qian in Han Dynasty was sent to a diplomatic mission, more and more kinds of Xiyu[11] came into the land of ancient China at that time. “ The Classics on Tea ”, written by Lu Yu of the Tang Dynasty ( 618 A.D.-907 A.D.) was the world's earliest treatise on tea leave production. Dring Tea is popular in the whole counry.”
In Song Dynasty, “Zhan City” rice in ancient Viet Nam brought to China. The output of rice was much more than before. State Su and State Hu around Lake Tai turned into the most important area of grain production. The saying can be heard today: “Harvest in Su and Hu, Food of Nation Enough”.
In Ming Dynasty, the high-yield crops like corn and sweet potato from America came to China, and were planted widely in Qing Dynasty, which offered enough food to the population explosion at that time.

===The Land Ownership System===
In agricultural society, the farm land means wealth. The ownership of land is the most important problem.
In primitive society, land belonged to the whole tribe and people worked together.
In Shan Dynasty and Zhou Dynasty, the "Nine Squares" system with one large square divided into 9 small parts, the 8 outer ones being allocated to serfs who had to cultivate the central one for the serf owner. In fact, it was an aristocratic land ownership in the name of country. It was a period of transition from public ownership to private ownership.
In the Spring and Autumn Period and the Warring States Period, the use of cattle ploughing with iron plow made big progress in social productivity. The surplus products redistribution and new-appear market broke the foundation of Nine Squares system. The Land Private-Owning system appeared. The land could belong to farmers, landlords and monarchs. This pervasive land ownership system continued to modern times. Since the Land Reform in The People's Republic of China, it had been abandoned.
In Southern Wei Dynasty and Tang Dynasty, Land Equalization Policy was implemented together with the Land Private-Owning System. After war, many land became free land. These lands belonged to the country. And the government assigned them to common people. The land returned to the government after their death. The system finally failed, for the rich took away the nationalized lands by trickery or by force.

Chinese have an indissoluble bond with land and cultivation, which endows them with the good quality of diligence, courage,temperance,patience and kindness.A brilliant culture eats up on the adequate materals made by mature agriculture.However,their deep love of their land used to prevent the change of ancient China from feudalism to capitalism. The businessman would buy a new land as a landlord rather than invest his business with money earned. Even in modern China, people prefer to buy their own house rather than rent one. And modern Chinese regard planting as a good habit and hobby, they love to plant fruits, vegetables and something to eat in their garden or in the big flowerpot on the balcony.

==Terms and Expressions==

农耕文明：the Cultivation Culture

渔猎文明：the Fishing-Hunting Culture

游牧文明：Nomadic Civilization

两河流域（长江和黄河）：Two-River-Drainage Area

炎帝（神农）: Emperor Fire(Shen Nong)

五谷：Five Cereal Grains，which contains(稻)rice,(黍)millet([ladin]Panicum miliaceum, yellow millet, that has two kinds, sticky or not sticky.),(稷)millet(colorful),(麦)wheat and (豆)bean. Those are general names of different grains taken as staple food in ancient and modern China.

河姆渡文明：the Hemudu Culture

半坡文明：the Banpo Culture

耧车:Louche, an animal-drawn seed plough

曲辕犁(Quyuanli)： Crankshaft

翻车(Fanche)：Turn-over Water Wheel

筒车：Tongche(literation, “che” refers to wheeled machine)

育秧移植栽培：Seedling Transplanting Cultivation

都江堰：the Dujiang Dam

《汜胜之书》：Si Shengzhi’s Articles, written by Si shengzhi

《齐民要术》贾思勰：Essentials of People’s Happiness (CH’I MIN YAO SHU[10])，written by Jia Sixie

《农书》王祯：Agricultural Book,written by Wang Zhen

《农政全书》徐光启: The complete book of agricultural administration, written by Xu Guangqi

《茶经》：The Classic on Tea

西域：Xiyu( “xi” in Chinese means “western”, “yu” means area.) usually refers to Xinjiang in Han Dynasty, and with the ancient China communicated more and more with foreign counries, it could refer to many places in Asia and Europe.

占城稻：Zhan City rice

24节气：twenty-four solar terms

井田制：the Nine Squares system

土地私有制：The land private-owning system

均田制：Land Equalization Policy

==References==
[1]《白虎通义•卷一》：“谓之神农何？古之人民，皆食禽兽肉，至于神农，人民众多，禽兽不足。于是神农因天之时，分地之利，制耒耜，教民农作。神而化之，使民宜之，故谓之神农也。”

[2] 《淮南子•修务训》：“古者，民茹草饮水，采树木之实，食蠃蠬之肉。时多疾病毒伤之害，于是神农乃始教民播种五谷，相土地宜，燥湿肥墝高下，尝百草之滋味，水泉之甘苦，令民知所辟就。当此之时，一日而遇七十毒。”

[3]人教版七年级上册历史教科书第一单元第二课：原始的农耕生活

[4] Huang Jianhua黄剑华. (2016). 中国稻作文化的起源探析[An analysis of the origin of Chinese rice culture][J].地方文化研究Local Cultural Study,2016,(04):40-57.

[5]中国古代农业技术的进步发展

[6] 2018年全国大学英语四级翻译习题：曲辕犁,该文章来源于出国留学网，网址：https://english.liuxue86.com/e/3571825.html

[7] Li Falin李发林. (1986). 翻车和筒车浅谈[A brief discussion over turnover and barrel carriage][J]. 文史哲Literature, History and philosophy, 1986(03):76-78.

[8]Li Genpan李根蟠. (2011). 水车起源和发展丛谈(上辑)[The origin and development of waterwheel series(previous series)][J]. 中国农史History of Chinese Agriculture, 2011, 030(002):3-18. 水车起源和发展丛谈(中辑)[ The origin and development of waterwheel series(medium series)][J]. 中国农史History of Chinese Agriculture, 2011(04):22-49. 水车起源和发展丛谈(下辑)[ The origin and development of waterwheel series(next series)][J]. 中国农史History of Chinese Agriculture, 2012(01):3-21.

[9]古代水利工具翻车筒车示意图

[10]石声汉教授曾经出版英文版的《齐民要术概论》，《齐民要术》被音译为此名

[11]王璞西域英译考辨 2017

==Question==
1. What is the land ownership system in Tang Dynasty?

2. When did the high-yield crop come to China?

3. Did Bi Lan invent Fanche?

4. What are the last two of the four great agricultural books according to the time?

==Answer==
1.the Land Private-Owning System and Land Equalization Policy.

2.In Ming Dynasty.

3.Yes.

4. Agricultural Book,written by Wang Zhen and The Complete book of Agricultural Administration, written by Xu Guangqi.

=Yì Míngxiá 易明霞 Ancient literature: The Classic of Mountains and Seas=

== '''1.Overview''' ==

The Ancient Chinese literature ''Shan Hai Jing'', also known as ''The Classic of Mountains and Seas'' and ''The Classic of Great Wilderness'', which was written by various authors in a single time, is a Chinese classic text and a compilation of mythic geography and beasts. It is largely a fabulous geographical and cultural account of pre-Qin China as well as a collection of Chinese mythology. The book is divided into eighteen sections; it describes over 550 mountains and 300 channels.

As for the content, it is not a narrative. The “plot” involves detailed description of locations in the general direction of the ''Mountains, Regions Beyond Seas, Regions Within Seas, and Wilderness''. These descriptions are usually about medicines, animals, and geological features. Many of the creatures are ordinary and normal, while many are fantasy and strange. Each chapter in the book follows roughly the same formula, and the book is also repetitious in the same way. The different chapters of ''The Classic of Mountains and Seas'' progress very much like a travelogue, with each section focusing on a specific region, starting from the central lands (China) and working its way outward in each direction to the outlying lands located beyond the four seas which surround the central lands. The text has a vivid description of different races, deities, plants, and minerals unique to their own region, and records interesting information about each, including the histories and activities of many demonic or divine characters. This eclectic book also contains important information on early medicine (including treatments for impotence and infertility), ways of averting catastrophe with omens, and rites of sacrifice, and familiar and unidentified plants and animals. It provides a guided tour of the ancient known world, moving outward from the famous mountains of central China to the lands “beyond the sea”. In general, it functions as a guide, getting us to know more about the ancient world. (Michael 2001:679; Srisinthon 2018: 104; Sun Yuzhen 2003: 109，110)

=='''2.Authorship'''==
The exact author(s) of the book and the time it was written were controversial. It was originally thought that mythical figures such as Yu the Great or Bo Yi wrote the book. The consensus among modern Sinologists is that the book was not written at a single time by a single author, but rather by numerous people from the period of the Warring States to the beginning of the Han dynasty. Then, based on Yang Xinghui and Luo Dahe’s latest study, the book was initially dedicated by Bo Yi and transmitted orally by his descendants. Then, it was edited by Zhao Gao-lang or Heng the Father and presented to the emperor of the Zhou Dynasty by Zao the Father. Thus, it was passed on to the future generations. (Yang Xinghui / Luo Dahe 2016: 66,73)

=='''3.The Mythical Creatures Within the Book'''==
The mythical creatures portrayed in the book have a romantic quality. They are a combination of ancient ancestors’ awe and admiration for morality, power, life and nature, and the result of ancient ancestors’ wisdom. Although these creatures are different from each other, they have certain features in common. Firstly, they all embody ancient ancestors’ original concept of life. Secondly, they usually have the qualities of a spiritual leader. Lastly, instead of being average people, these mythical creatures are all transcendent deities. (Xue Zhengying 2016: 174,180)
The mythical creatures in the book can be classified into four kinds: the orcs, the aliens, the rare and exotic animals, the elves in plants. Some of them are popular and well know in Asian culture, such as Nine-tailed Fox, Phoenix, Nüwa, Houyi. These images are ancient people’s contemplation towards the origin of life and their exploration of nature. This surrealism has a profound impact on the traditional Chinese culture. Some of the images express Chinese ancestors’ pursuit of peace. Later, this pursuit of peace has also become a permanent pursuit in China. (Xiang Wei 2021: 25-26)

Here are some images and brief introductions to some typical mythical creatures within the book.

[[File:jiuweihu.jpg|400px|left|九尾狐(https://i0.wp.com/www.viewofchina.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/12/fox.jpg?w=880&ssl=1)]]

A nine-tailed white fox. As the legend goes, it was the matchmaker of China’s greatest hydraulic engineer The Great Yu and his wife Tushan Shi.

[[File:jiaoren.jpg|400px|left|鲛人(https://i1.wp.com/www.viewofchina.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/12/fishman.jpg?w=880&ssl=1)]]

Fish Man, a mermaid, specialized in weaving waterproof silk fabric.
According to the Book of Supernatural Beings, Fish Men/Women look like humans but with a fishtail. When they weep, their tears would turn into pearls; and their body oil can keep a lamp burning for a thousand years.

[[File:tu3.jpg|400px|left|中山神(https://i2.wp.com/www.viewofchina.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/12/shanhaijing-zhongshanshen.jpg?w=880&ssl=1)]]

A beast with a dragon head and horse body known as the deity of Mt. Zhongshan.

[[File:tu4.jpg|400px|left|狰(https://i2.wp.com/www.viewofchina.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/12/shanhaijing-zhen-e1576307283400.jpg?w=880&ssl=1)]]

A five-tail creature called Zheng, specialized in preying on man-eating beasts like tigers and leopards.

[[File:tu5.jpg|400px|left|䑏疏(https://i0.wp.com/www.viewofchina.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/12/shanhaijing-guanshu.jpg?w=880&ssl=1)]]

A Chinese unicorn called Quanshu.

[[File:tu6.jpg|400px|left|举父(https://i2.wp.com/www.viewofchina.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/12/monkey.jpg?w=880&ssl=1)]]

A monkey-like creature known as Jufu, specialized in long-range stone hurling which terrified other beasts.

=='''4.Changes in the Status'''==
The earliest reference to ''the Classic of Mountains and Seas'' in history was made by Sima Qian, who expressed strong doubts about its credibility, which had a great impact on the status of ''the Classic of Mountains and Seas'' in the traditional Chinese civilization. Hence, since Liu Xiu of the Han dynasty complied ''the table of the Classic of Mountains and Seas'' and Guo Pu of the Jin dynasty made the first note about ''the Classic'', scarcely had there been someone to study the book. Then, in the early twentieth century, the concept of “mythology” from the West and modern academic theories and methods such as anthropology and mythology were introduced to China. These brought a fundamental change in the status of ''the Classic''. Since then, instead of being criticized by historians, it has become the cornerstone in contemporary study of “Chinese mythology”. (Chen Shuai 2013: 209)

=='''5.Influences on Chinese Literature'''==
''The Classic of Mountains and Seas'' represents the earliest systematic repository of the myths and deities from ancient and early China, and this work has served as the primary inspiration for later Chinese mythology. The systematic presentation of these myths differs in nature from other textual collections of ancient and early myths identified with other parts of the world, which are structured by some forms of narrative continuity. ''The Classic'' is bereft of narrative continuity, and its material is structured in accordance with a mythic geography, in which different mythic elements, themes, and characters are located in terms of place and direction. It has no plot, but the mythological creatures and stories in the book lead to diversified imagination. The mythological creatures in the book have been extensively quoted in Chinese literature. In terms of narrative methods, the Classic is simple and concise in its descriptions but rich in imagination, which profoundly influences the narrative style and technique of the early Chinese novels.(Xiang Wei 2021: 25-26)

==References==
[1]Xiang Wei项薇. (2021). 浅析《山海经》神话形象对后世小说文学的影响[An analysis of the influence of the mythological images in ''the Classic of Mountains and Seas'' on the later literature ]. ''文学研究''Literary Studies(12),25-26. doi:CNKI:SUN:JGWC.0.2021-12-011.

[2]Srisinthon, P.(2018).《山海经》中山的概念[The Concept of Mountains in “The Classic of Mountains and Seas”]. ''瓦莱拉克社会科学杂志''Walailak Journal of Social Science. 11, 1 (Jun. 2018), 101-129.

[3]Xue Zhengying薛正英.(2016). 论《山海经》神话英雄形象及文化精神[An analysis on the images and cultural spirit of the mythical heroes in ''the Classic of Mountains and Seas'']. ''现代交际''Modern Communication(03),174-177+180. doi:CNKI:SUN:XKJJ.0.2016-03-068.

[4]Yang Xinhui & Luo Dahe杨兴慧 & 罗大和.(2016).《山海经》之作者析考[An analysis of the authors of the Classic of Mountains and Seas]. ''西南民族大学学报(人文社科版)''Journal of Southwest Minzu University(Humanities and Social Sciences Edition)(10),66-73. doi:CNKI:SUN:XNZS.0.2016-10-011.

[5]Chen Shuai陈帅. (2013).《山海经》神话研究综述[A review of mythological studies of ''the Classic of Mountains and Seas'']. ''学理论''Academic Theory(11),209-211. doi:CNKI:SUN:LBYT.0.2013-11-098.

[6]Sun Yuzheng孙玉珍(2003).《山海经》研究综述[A review of ''the Classic of Mountains and Seas''][J].''山东理工大学学报(社会科学版)''Journal of Shandong University of Technology(Social Science Edition),2003(01):109-112.

[7]Michael 麦克, T. (2001). ''宗教学报''[The Journal of Religion]. Chicago: The University of Chicago Press芝加哥大学出版社, 81(4), 678-680. http://www.jstor.org/stable/1206093

==Terms and Expressions==
The Classic of Mountains and Seas, The Classic of Great Wilderness 《山海经》

Mountains 《山经》

Regions Beyond Seas 《海外经》

Regions Within Seas 《海内经》

Wilderness 《大荒经》

Yu the Great 大禹

Bo Yi 伯益

modern Sinologist现代汉学家

nine-tailed white fox 九尾白狐

Tushan Shi 涂山氏

Fish Man 鲛人

mermaid 美人鱼

waterproof silk fabric鲛纱

Supernatural Beings 《搜神记》

Mt. Zhongshan 中山神

Zheng 狰

Quanshu 䑏疏

Jufu 举父

==Questions==

1.How many sections is the classic divided into?

2.What does the book describe?

3.How is the book arranged?

4.How was this book created?

5.What makes a great difference on the change of the status of this book?

== Answers ==
1. 18sections

2.It describes over 550 mountains and 300 channels.

3.Each chapter follows roughly the same formula, and the whole book is repetitious in this way. Then, the different chapters of The Classic progress much like a travel record, in which each section concentrates on specific region, starting from the central lands (China) and working its way outward in each direction to the outlying lands located beyond the four seas surrounding the central lands.

4. It was initially dedicated by Bo Yi and transmitted orally by his descendants. Then, it was edited by Zhao Gao-lang or Heng the Father and presented to the emperor of the Zhou Dynasty by Zao the Father.

5. In the early twentieth century, the concept of “mythology” from the West and modern academic theories and methods such as anthropology and mythology were introduced to China.
These brought a fundamental change in the status of ''the Classic''.

=Yuán Jìng 袁静 Kingfisher Craft点翠 =

==Introduction==
[[File:diancui.jpg|400px|thumb|left|jewelry made by kingfisher craft (https://img.zcool.cn/community/0167a25d58f1aca8012187f4f3229e.jpg@1280w_1l_2o_100sh.jpg)]]

Kingfisher craft is a traditional Chinese handmade craft. Artisans make beautify gold and silver headdresses using Kingfisher feathers, and decorated with gemstones and jewelry. It is a synthesis of many exquisite skills, which coalesces the wisdom and talent of groups of artisans over the generations and reflects the refined elegance of traditional Chinese craftsmanship. It is one of the exemplars of traditional Chinese handicraft. <③ P4）

==Meaning==
[[File:Cuiyu.jpg|200px|thumb|left|kingfisher feathers (http://n.sinaimg.cn/jiangsu/crawl/20170920/nZcY-fykymwm9838004.jpg)]]

“Cui,” which refers to a kind of green feather bird, here refers to the lime green feathers of birds. It combines Chinese metalwork and traditional feather artistic handicrafts. Artisans use precious and rare kingfisher feathers to paste on top of gold and silver products in an orderly manner, with coordinated color arrangements and contrasting hues. <①>

==History==
Kingfisher craft is an ancient and long-standing traditional craft in China, with a long history of thousands of years. The earliest record of Kingfisher craft is from Han Feizi, "There was a jewel merchant in the state of Chu who went to Zheng to sell his jewels. He made a box for the jewels out of magnolia wood, perfumed it with spices made of cinnamon and pepper, embellished it with beautiful jade, and attached it with feathers of kingfishers."
"( 《韩非子·外储说左上》：“楚人有卖其珠于郑者，为木兰之椟，熏以桂椒，缀以珠玉，饰以玫瑰，辑以羽翠。”) The "feathers of kingfishers" first recorded products of kingfisher craft.<③ P22>

It is generally believed that Kingfisher craft began in the Han Dynasty. In the Han Dynasty women's jewelry made greater development. The History of the Later Han Dynasty has recorded the jewelry worn by the Empress Dowager, "with jadeite of feathers, with white beads underneath, hanging gold hairpin." (《后汉书》曾记录过皇太后所佩戴的首饰：“以翡翠为毛羽，下有白珠，垂黄金镊。”)The "jadeite of feathers" is the jewelry decorated with kingfisher feathers. Cao Zhi's Ode the Goddess of the Luo River has written, “wearing gold jewelry and ornaments with kingfisher feathers, decorated with bright pearls." (三国曹植的《洛神赋》有：“戴金翠之首饰，缀明珠以耀躯。”)It recorded the jewelry made of kingfisher feathers and jewel together. <③ P24>

In the Tang Dynasty, women dressed elegantly and nobly, so precious pearls and kingfisher feathers were sought after by the noblewomen. (27) Lu Guimeng's Miscellaneous Ploys had a line that, "All the women living in palaces compete with each other to take a look in carriages, and more than three thousand women with Cui pearls admire the emperor." (陆龟蒙的《杂伎》写道：“六宫争近乘舆望，珠翠三千拥赭袍。”)The Cui pearls is the jewelry made of kingfisher feathers and pearls. <③ P28>

In the Song Dynasty, women's hair ornaments inherited from the Tang Dynasty, but in more various forms. Women wore jewelry made with Kingfisher craft on their hair buns, with the shape of flowers, birds and phoenixes. In one of Li Qingzhao's verses, it is recorded that "Wearing a hat with kingfisher feathers on its head and a snow willow whisked with beautiful gold thread, girls were neatly dressed up and beautiful." (李清照《永遇乐》中有记载：“铺翠冠儿，捻金雪柳，簇带争济楚。”) However, due to the gradual dominance of Neo-Confucianism of Cheng-Zhu, people's concept changed and began to advocate simplicity. The Song dynasty court also issued several edicts forbidding the use of kingfisher feathers in headgear. <③ P32>

The Ming Dynasty and the Qing Dynasty were the heyday of kingfisher craft. During the Ming Dynasty, the commodity economy gradually became more active. The style of women's jewelry became more gorgeous. Kingfisher feathers were colorful and therefore favored. Especially in the production of phoenix crowns, the "Nine Dragons and Nine Phoenixes Crown" of Empress XiaoDuan, unearthed in July 1958, is a classic, with its lively colorful kingfisher feathers and luxurious jewelry. The Ming Dynasty's tin flower headdress also created good conditions for the development of Kingfisher craft. This flower-like ornaments were perfect for the use of the Kingfisher craft. <③ P34/P35>
[[File:jiulongjiufengguan.jpg|200px|thumb|left|Nine Dragons and Nine Phoenixes Crown (http://5b0988e595225.cdn.sohucs.com/images/20171206/898057dc1e774546add03c8364853298.jpeg)]]

The Qing Dynasty saw the highest level of Kingfisher craft ever. The noblewomen of the Qing Dynasty paid more attention to the splendor of colors. Thus the glorious and never fading kingfisher feathers became an important decoration. Moreover, the emperor sounded the crown and costume system at that time. The consorts had to wear the imperial crown during the ceremony, and to wear the tin flower headdress on the festive day. Thus the demand for valuable jewelry promoted the use of the Kingfisher craft process on jewelry. <③ P38>Kingfisher craft gradually became a unique and specialized skill. Not only hairpins, head flowers, even fans and bonsai are also decorated with Kingfisher craft technology. Even the late Qing Dynasty set up a special institution responsible for the management and collection of kingfisher feathers. There were also special "kingfisher artisan" in charge of this craft. <③ P41>

In modern times, Kingfisher craft is in decline. Because women no longer use the traditional headdresses in these days, there was no market for them. With the enactment of various animal protection laws, the state does not allow the use of birds' feathers for decoration. Therefore, kingfisher craft gradually declines. However, in recent years, China has paid more attention to the protection of intangible cultural heritage, and kingfisher craft has attracted some attention again. There are already some designers who have designed modern kingfisher products with other alternative materials, and there are also people who use the craft to restore previous jewelry made of kingfisher feathers . <②>

==Characteristics==
The kingfisher craft is not alone. Instead, the jewelry of kingfisher feathers is usually made with gold and silver wire, pearls, gemstones. In order to show the most brilliant colors of the kingfisher's feathers, the artisans who make them must carefully design the shape of the headpiece. Almost every part of the kingfisher process has a different color, depending on the relative position of the observer and the feathers, the light and background color, and other factors. Experiments have shown that when the observer faces the light source, the feathers take on darker colors, such as indigo and blue. However, if the light source is at the back of the observer, the feathers will appear lighter blue-green and green. In order to achieve the brightest effect after wearing, the designer needs to consider the flat pattern of dotted green and design the angle between the models so that they match and illuminate each other. <①>

==Classification==
(1) Hard kingfisher feathers
Hard kingfisher feathers refers to the feathers on the wings and tail, which are more commonly used because they are at a larger area on the wings. Lt is also called eight large strips because there are almost eight feathers available on each kingfisher wing. Although there are eight large feathers but the usable part is very little. Hard kingfisher feathers is characterized by obvious texture, strong luster, and coarser texture. Hard kingfisher feathers is mostly cut and pasted because the hardness of the wing part of hard kingfisher feathers is suitable for cutting into the shape of a piece and pointing to the bottom of the tire. Moreover, hard kingfisher feathers is generally very flat and flaky.

(2) Soft kingfisher feathers
Soft kingfisher feathers refers to the brightest down on the neck and back of the kingfisher. The feather is only a little bit available on the tip, so it will be more expensive, and the production is almost point by point, which is a test of effort. The texture of soft kingfisher feathers is more delicate. However, it does not mean that the grade of jewelry made by soft kingfisher feathers is higher than that by hard kingfisher feathers, but it depends on the overall quality and difficulty of the whole process. The soft kingfisher feathers is made by melting a special glue with warm water and applying it to the back of the kingfisher feathers. This technique is called fixing the glue, and then proceeding with the dots after the glue is all dry. Soft kingfisher feathers are soft and small, so it is mostly used a little by a little. Generally, soft kingfisher feathers is more expensive and has a more delicate texture. <①>
==Making Process==
Generally speaking, the process includes five steps. First, draw the design. The craftsman has to sketch out the piece first, including the colors and many details. Second, make the base. The base has two kinds, including paper and metal ones. The base must be well polished so that kingfisher feathers can be stuck. Third, collect Kingfisher feathers. It is done by hand, which requires skill that does not damage the color of the feathers themselves. Forth, screen the feathers. It means screening out the required feathers. Fifth, paste the feathers. Feathers need to be patiently and meticulously arranged in an orderly manner little by little in the base. It requires artisans not only to take into account the matching of color shades, but also to consider the color of reflected light. <③ P76-82>
==References==
①Wang Hefei 王翮飞《中国珠宝首饰工艺最高水平——点翠》[The highest Level of Chinese Jewelry Craftsmanship--Kingfisher Craft]
https://wap.cnki.net/touch/web/Journal/Article/TGTG201909004.html

②Hu Jie 胡洁《民间工艺——点翠的前世今生》 [Folk Craft -- Kingfisher Craft's History]
https://wap.cnki.net/touch/web/Journal/Article/FJCA202002081.html

③Li Rongsen 李荣森《传统戏曲头饰点翠技艺的传承与发展》 [Inheritance and Development of Traditional Opera Headdress Embellishment Techniques--Kingfisher Craft]

④Han Feizi 韩非子《韩非子》

⑤Fan Ye 范晔《后汉书》

⑥Cao Zhi 曹植《洛神赋》

⑦Lu Guimeng 陆龟蒙《杂伎》

⑧Li Qingzhao 李清照《永遇乐》

==Expressions==
Kingfisher craft 点翠工艺

Empress XiaoDuan 孝端皇后

Han Feizi 韩非子

The History of the Late Han Dynasty 《后汉书》

Ode to the Goddess of the Luo River《洛神赋》

Miscellaneous Ploys 《杂伎》

Information《永遇乐》

hard kingfisher feathers 硬翠

soft kingfisher feathers 软翠

base 首饰胎底

tin flower headdress 钿花

Neo-Confucianism of Cheng-Zhu 程朱理学

Nine Dragons and Nine Phoenixes Crown 九龙九凤冠

==Questions==
1.What is the earliest known reference to kingfisher craft?

2.When did kingfisher craft origin?

3.In what dynasty did the governor issue edicts forbidding the use of kingfisher feather in headgear?

4.When did kingfisher craft reach its peak?

5.What are the two kinds of kingfisher feathers?

6.Is the grade of jewery made by soft kingfisher feathers higher than that by hard kingfisher feathers?

7.How many steps are involved in making process?
==Answers==
1.Han Feizi

2.in the Tang Dynasty

3.the Song Dynasty

4.in the Qing Dynasty

5.They are hard and soft kingfisher feathers.

6.No, It depends on the overall quality and difficulty of the whole process.

7.five

Corrector--[[User:Zhao Ke|Zhao Ke]] ([[User talk:Zhao Ke|talk]]) 09:14, 15 June 2021 (UTC)

=Zhào Kē 赵轲 Traditional Chinese Funeral Culture=
==A. Origin and Development==
[[File:zhoukoudian.jpg|200px|thumb|left|Excavation at Beijing Zhoukoudian Cavemen Sites (http://www.yxhenan.com/info/news/waisheng_1789_16738.html)]]
[[File:zhg.jpg|200px|thumb|right|Chinese Funeral (https://m.sohu.com/a/239501313_476716)]]
It is generally believed that the idea of immortality of the soul came into being before the middle Paleolithic Age, which is the essential basis of funeral rites. The earliest funeral rites in China originated in the late Paleolithic Age. Unearthed in 1933 Beijing Zhoukoudian Cavemen Sites found a burial chamber under the ruins, which pointed out that eighteen thousand years ago paleolithic cavemen followed funeral procedures, in which the bones of death bodies were surrounded with hematite powders, animal teeth used as tools, and flint stone and so on (Chen/Fan 2013:1).

After entering the feudal society, Chinese funeral rites developed to be complicated, institutionalized and hierarchical, and finally became a set of mature funeral systems. In the Zhou Dynasty, China's funeral rites had already been complete. The Rites of Zhou, The Book of Rites and other books made detailed stipulations on funeral rites. At this stage, the funeral rites were mainly influenced by the patriarchy and the Confucian concept of filial piety (Chen/Fan 2013:2).

This situation continued until the founding of New China. After this, the funeral culture gradually simplified. The reasons are complex. To name a few, that referred to three aspects especially: First, the original feudal class order was broken; Second, funeral procedures were greatly simplified; Third, the concept of immortality of the soul gradually disappeared, and the ritual of worshipping ghosts and gods was also greatly simplified (Chen/Fan 2013:2).

==B. Traditional Process==
In traditional Chinese funerals, one can leave at ease only after a complete funeral process, which includes several steps (Chen, etc. 2008:43).

[[File:zh.jpg|200px|thumb|left|Baosang (announce sb.'s death) (https://m.sohu.com/a/332995941_100186178/)]]
'''(1) A public announcement of the death with weeping and other sad expressions.'''

This is also called Baosang in Chinese, which is especially done by the female relatives, who announce the death to their neighbors with a loud voice and a predetermined form of crying. Sometimes this is not their voluntary action, but may be required by the will of the death. The official announcement of the death also includes hanging white curtains or lanterns outside the home. In some areas, this is optional, but crying is a necessary act (Hua, 2003:10).

'''(2) Changing clothes.'''
[[File:zsh.jpg|200px|thumb|right|Sangfu (mourning apparel) (https://kuaibao.qq.com/s/20191227A0IHSQ00?refer=spider)]]
Relatives of the dead wear white clothes, shoes and headscarves. Different relatives have different styles of clothing (different colors, etc.), which indicates the relationship between the deceased and the wearers. Of course, there are differences in color symbols and costume combinations, but white is a very clear symbol of mourning clothing, which is a basic feature of Chinese funeral ceremonies (Hua, 2003:10).

'''(3) Bathing the dead.'''

After the bath, the final dressing of the deceased is also performed, which is considered to be an important part of the final death (Shouzhongzhengqin\Die in one’s bed). The water used is also particular, often being "water obtained by praying to the gods" (actually bought back with a symbolic amount of money), called “Maishui” (Watson, 1982:1-2).

[[File:zsfh.jpg|200px|thumb|left|Shaozhi (burning paper) (http://nimg.ws.126.net/?url=http%3A%2F%2Fdingyue.ws.126.net%2F2021%2F0508%2Fd6442441j00qsr6ot000vc000go008tc.jpg&thumbnail=650x2147483647&quality=80&type=jpg)]]
'''(4) Delivering food, money, etc. to the world of the dead.'''

By burning paper objects (houses, furniture, etc.), people bring essential goods to the dead. Food, usually pork, rice, etc., is served in the form of offering (Hua, 2003:11).

'''(5) Setting the tablet.'''
[[File:zsash.jpg|200px|thumb|right|Paiwei (tablet) (http://www.t-chs.com/pche0/542793597396.html)]]
It is generally believed that dead people need a written tablet to settle their souls. These tablets are often placed in ancestral temples. Some unmarried women are not considered family members, so their tablets are usually placed in temples (Hua, 2003:11)

'''(6) Ritual use of money and hiring of professional staff.'''

Those personnel are employed to perform ceremonial performances that are not possible for the general public to perform due to the complexity of these performances. Money exchange permeates funeral rites in China in different forms (Hua, 2003:12).

[[File:zssssssh.jpg|200px|thumb|left|Chanting scriptures (http://www.dashangu.com/postimg_19508114.html)]]
'''(7) With music to accompany the dead, soothe the soul.'''

The sharp sound of flutes and suona horns (or trumpets), gongs and drums plays an important role, especially when the dead body needs to be moved (Hua, 2003:12).

'''(8) Going into the coffin.'''

This is an important feature of traditional Chinese funeral ceremonies, and wooden coffins have been common in China since the Neolithic Age. Ritual hammering of nails is central to the process, often carried out by the head of the deceased's surviving family (Wang, 2019:2; Hua, 2003:12-13).

[[File:zssssawefssh.jpg|200px|thumb|right|Buried (http://baijiahao.baidu.com/s?id=1672907444430681061&wfr=spider&for=pc)]]
'''(9) Buried.'''

After the coffin is sealed, it can be sent away for burial. It is not an act to be done right away. Well-established families sometimes keep coffins in their homes as a sign of respect for the deceased. But eventually the coffins have to be buried (Hua, 2003:13).

There are all kinds of traditional rites for funeral in China, which means that different nations and people living in different areas may have various funeral rites. But after all, the nine points mentioned above may be the most important part in the process of Chinese funeral (Meng, 2020:4-5; Zhao, 2020:2-4; Ding/Zhao, 1989:505).

==C. Some Main Forms==
'''1.Burial in Earth'''

Land was an extremely important condition for people's survival, production and life, as well as the growth of all things, so it was easy to form the worship of land. In the past, people believed that acts such as farming offended the god, so they would sacrifice themselves in blood to beg for forgiveness. Namely, it was burying dead bodies into earth. Under the influence of this thought, the Chinese people gradually formed the idea of "being buried to rest", and the burial in earth became the most common burial style of the Han people (Jin 1996:2).

'''2. Cremation'''

Cremation referred to the phenomenon of burning dead bodies to bones, and then burying those bones in tombs in the past. Some burned the dead outside the tomb and then buried the bones or ashes inside the tomb, while others burned the dead and even burial utensils and burial goods inside the tomb chamber. Nowadays, such a form has been used in a more sanitary way in funeral parlors (Gao\Song 2018:1-2).

[[File:zsssssasdsh.jpg|200px|thumb|left|Tianzangtai (Sky Burial Platform) (http://www.mafengwo.cn/g/i/7041035.html)]]
'''3. Sky Burial'''

In Tibetan residential areas, sky burial is the mainstream funeral custom. It is believed that people have afterlife and the soul is immortal, and that the human shell left behind after death means that it is only a skin and worthless. It is better to "give" this shell to hungry vultures to save other lives of other creatures that will be eaten by the vultures (Yang 2015:4). In the Tibetan language, celestial burial is called "Bird-giving"(Shiniao). It is a burial custom full of magical colors and allure, and it is also a unique burial custom on the Qinghai-Tibet Plateau. It is mainly influenced by the doctrines of Tibetan Buddhism such as "the six ways of reincarnation" and "karma", and especially directly influenced by the concepts of "mercy", "alms" and "reincarnation" in Tibetan Buddhism, such as giving up the life to feed tigers, cutting flesh to feed eagles and so on (Zhang 2017:1).

[[File:zssdssdsh.jpg|200px|thumb|right|Water Burial (http://blog.sina.com.cn/s/blog_9f36359f0102v72t.html)]]
'''4. Water Burial'''

The water burial ceremony of the Tibetan nationality can be divided into two categories: the water burial of whole bodies and the water burial of separated bodies. And the containers carrying dead bodies can be roughly divided into bamboo rafts, wooden coffins, wooden boxes, bamboo baskets and sink stones. The ritual process of the whole body burial is basically that the relatives of the deceased wrap the body in cloth and then put the wrapped body into a container. Bamboo baskets are more commonly used as the container. People wrap ropes or wooden strips around the basket or insert them into the basket and then carry the container to a fixed place for water burial. At the riverside, monks would chant sutras for the dead. When the sutras were finished, families will begin to dispose of the dead body. During the process, they will remove the white cloth that they have wrapped before, and then remove the ropes or wooden strips along with it, and tie large stones to the body so that it can sink under the water and never floats up (Li 2015:1).

==Terms==
Paleolithic Age 旧石器时代

Neolithic Age 新石器时代

Beijing Zhoukoudian cavemen sites 周口店北京人遗址

Die in one’s bed 寿终正寝

The Rites of Zhou 周礼

The Book of Rites 礼记

Immortality of the soul 灵魂不灭

Maishui 买水

Being buried to rest 入土为安

Burial in Earth 土葬

Cremation 火葬

Sky Burial \ Celestial burial 天葬

Water Burial 水葬

Bird-giving 施鸟

Water burial of whole bodies 整尸水葬

Water burial of separated bodies 分尸水葬

==Questions==
1.When did the earliest funeral rites originate?

2.What made detailed stipulations on funeral rites?

3.What are the reasons that funeral culture gradually simplified after the founding of New China?

4.What is the first step of traditional funeral process?

5.What is the last step of traditional funeral process?

6.Could you list some typical styles of traditional Chinese funeral?

7.In Tibetan language, what is celestial burial called as？

8.Which religions influences Chinese funeral most profoundly?

==Answers==
1.The earliest funeral rites in China originated in the late Paleolithic Age.

2.The Rites of Zhou, The Book of Rites and other books.

3.First, the original class order was broken; Second, funeral procedures were greatly simplified; Third, the concept of immortality of the soul gradually disappeared, and the ritual of worshipping ghosts and gods was also greatly simplified.

4.A public announcement of death with weeping and other sad expressions.

5.Buried.

6.Burial in Earth, Cremation, Sky Burial and Water Burial.

7."Bird-giving"(Shiniao).

8.Buddhism.

==References==
[1] Chen Peng, Fan Shaoxing. 陈鹏,范劭兴. (2013). 中国传统丧葬礼仪的功能变迁 [Function Changes of Chinese Traditional Funeral Rites]. ''劳动保障世界 (理论版)''. [World of Labor Security (Theory Edition)]. (07) 171-172；

[2] Chen Shujun, Chen Huawen 陈淑君, 陈华文. (2008) ''民间丧葬习俗'' [Folk Funeral Customs]；

[3] Ding Shiliang, Zhao Fang 丁世良，赵放. (1989). ''中国地方志民俗资料汇编·东北卷'' [Compilation of Chinese Local Chorography and Folklore Data. Northeast Volume];

[4] Deng Zhuoming, Deng Li 邓卓明, 邓力. (1992). ''中国葬俗'' [The Chinese Funeral Customs]；

[5] Gao Xiangping, Song Xueming 郜向平, 宋雪明. (2018). 商文化中的火葬与焚烧墓室现象 [Cremation and Burning of Grave Chamber in Shang Culture]. ''江汉考古''[Jianghan Archaeology]. (05):113-117;

[6] Hua Chen 华琛. (2003). 中国丧葬仪式的结构——基本形态、仪式次序、动作的首要性. [The Structure of Chinese Funeral Ritual--Basic Form, Ceremonial Order and Primacy of Action]. ''历史人类学学刊'' [Journal of Historical Anthropology] (02) 98-114；

[7] Jin Fenglin 靳凤林. (1996). 死亡与中国的丧葬文化 [Death and Funeral Culture in China]. ''北方论坛'' [The Northern Forum] 05 (139) 22-27 ;

[8] Meng Xuehua 孟学华. (2020). 贵州毛南族丧葬仪式及其文化内涵 [Funeral Ritual and Cultural Connotation of Maonan Ethnic Group in Guizhou]. ''黔南民族师范学院学报''. [Journal of Qiannan Normal College for Nationalities]. (06) 29-35;

[9] Li Maojia 李毛加. (2015). 浅谈藏族水葬仪式 [On Water Burial Ceremony of Tibetan Nationality]. ''商'' [Shang]. (52) 119.

[10] Watson, J. L. (1982). Of Flesh and Bones: The Management of Death Pollution in Cantonese Society. ''Journal of Guangxi University for Nationalities(Philosoph)''. (06) 161-162；

[11] Wang Zhijun 王治军. (2019). 中国特色的悲伤抚慰——传统丧葬礼俗视角[Sorrow Comfort with Chinese Characteristics--Perspective of Traditional Funeral Ritual]. ''中国医学人文''[Chinese Medical Humanities]. 5(11) 13-17;

[12] Yang Kuan 杨宽. (1985). ''中国古代陵寝制度历史研究'' [Study on the History of Chinese Ancient Mausoleum System];

[13] Yang Qun 杨群. (2015). 藏族丧葬习俗的文化地域特征探究[Study on the Cultural Regional Characteristics of Tibetan Funeral Customs].''边疆经济与文化''[Frontier Economy and Culture]. (12) 69-71;

[14] Zhao Shijian， Liao Liming 赵士见, 廖利明. (2020). 近代鄂伦春族丧葬习俗变迁研究 [The Changes of Funeral Customs of the Oroqen People in Modern Times]. ''地域文化研究'' [Research on Regional Culture]. (06) 97-104+149;

[15] Zhang Keji 张可吉. (2017). 略论甘南藏区天葬习俗[On the Custom of Sky Burial in Gannan Tibetan Area]. ''中国民族博览''[Chinese Nationalities Expo]. (07) 7-8;

[16] Zheng Xiaojiang 郑小江. (1995). ''中国死亡文化大观'' [The Grand View of Chinese Death Culture]；

[17] Zhou Suping 周苏平. (2004). ''中国古代丧葬习俗'' [Funeral Customs in Ancient China].

20210601 culture5

2021-06-15T14:03:53Z

Yao Yang: /* Introduction */

'''Final Exam Paper Page. Please write now here and improve until grading on 2021 06 15'''
*Link to return to [[Foundations_of_Chinese_Cultures_2021|Course Homepage]].
*Link to the other Final Exam paper pages: [[20210601_culture|Final Exams 1 Bào Qìnwén 鲍沁雯 - Dù Xīnyǔ 杜心语]]; [[20210601_culture2|Final Exams 2 Guō Yàbō 郭亚波 - Huáng Zǐlóng 黄梓龙]]; [[20210601_culture3|Final Exams 3 Lǐ Yìhào 李艺浩 - Sū Xiāo 苏潇]]; [[20210601_culture4|Final Exams 4 Tāng Huì 汤惠 - Wáng Qìnyú 王沁瑜]]; [[20210601_culture5|Final Exams 5 Wáng Zǐhán 王子涵 - Zhào Kē 赵轲]].

1. Every student should write a new English text on a phenomenon in Chinese culture as a new chapter in the text book. Please also make a comparisons to similar or different cultural phenomenons in Europe and/or the USA.

2. Please find a paper you want to proof read, contact the author, proof read (by copying each paragraph and make corrections/suggestions in the copy) and sign until May 25. The author then finalizes (works in the suggestions) until the final deadline June 1! Please proof read a fellow students' paper by copying each paragraph and make your corrections in the paragraph. In a final step, the original author of the paper has to decide, what of the corrections he/she will accept and work into the paper. The final version submitted on the deadline should not carry any of the fellow student's paragraphs and comments.

*You can use the texts in the coursebook as an example (like Unit 1, Text A). You only need to write Text A (like "Longevity Noodles") or Text B ("Mooncakes"), not a whole Unit. But please try to find fellow students who topics fit under the same Unit title ("Festival Meals") and arrange it accordingly.
*In the topic, please write the category, then the topic - your name and student no.
*For the text, please indicate ALL SOURCES with bibliographical references. That means: At least for every paragraph, sometimes for single sentences, you have to indicate at the end, where you have found this information. E.g. (Liu Miqing 2010, 17). This means you have found it in the book or paper written by Ms Liu on page 17.
*Add a section at the end called "References". There you write the full version of the reference: Liu Miqing 刘宓庆. (2010). ''翻译基础'' [Translation Basis]. Shanghai: East China Normal University 华东师范大学. Similarly, you do it for papers: Jin Wenlu`靳文璐. (2019). 机器翻译可以取代人工翻译吗? [Can machine translation replace human translation?]. ''智库时代'' Think Tank Times (40) 282-284.
*Please also add a list "Terms and Expressions".
*Please add a "Questions" section.
*Please add a "Answers" section.

This is the the first page with the final exam papers.

Please write another chapter of the textbook on any cultural phenomenon in China.

=Wáng Zǐhán 王子涵= Tai Chi(taijiquan)

=Wang Zihan 王子涵= Tai Chi（Taijiquan）

= Chinese Martial Arts: Tai Chi - Wáng Zǐhán 王子涵 201930096017 =

== Introduction ==
Tai Chi (also known as T'ai Chi Ch'uan or Taijiquan) is one of the major branches of the traditional Chinese martial arts. Its name is derived from the philosophical term, “Tai Chi,” the first known written reference of which appeared in the Book of Changes over 3000 years ago during the Zhou Dynasty (1100-1221 BC). In this book it says that “in all changes exists Tai Chi, which causes the two opposites in everything.” Tai Chi means the ultimate of ultimate, often used to describe the vastness of the universe. (Dr Paul Lam 2006, 1-10)

The essential principles of Tai Chi are based on the ancient Chinese philosophy of Taoism, which stresses the natural balance in all things and the need for living in spiritual and physical accord with the patterns of nature. According to this philosophy, everything is composed of two opposites, but entirely complementary, elements of yin and yang, working in a relationship which is in perpetual balance. Tai Chi consists of exercises equally balanced between yin and yang, which is why it is so remarkably effective. (Dr Paul Lam 2006, 1-10)

== Major Styles ==
Based on Qigong and martial art techniques from thousands of years ago, Chen Wangting developed the Chen Style Tai Chi around 1670. At present, there are five major styles of Tai Chi. Each of them is named after the corresponding Chinese family from which the styles originate. They are Chen Style by Chen Wangting, Yang Style by Yang Luchan, Wu Style by Wu Yuxiang, Wu Style by Wu Jianquan and Sun Style by Sun Lutang.
Based on Controlled Breathing Exercise and martial art techniques from thousands of years ago, Chen Wangting developed the Chen Style Tai Chi around 1670. At present, there are five major styles of Tai Chi, and each of them is named after the corresponding Chinese family from which the styles originate. They are Chen Style by Chen Wangting, Yang Style by Yang Luchan, Wu Style by Wu Yuxiang, Wu Style by Wu Jianquan and Sun Style by Sun Lutang.--[[User:Wu Siyi|Wu Siyi]] ([[User talk:Wu Siyi|talk]]) 15:53, 14 June 2021 (UTC)
''' (1) Chen Style '''

Chen Style is characterized by its emphasis on spiral force. Its movements are similar to other martial arts. Slow and soft movements intermix with fast and hard ones. It contains explosive power and low stances. Chen Style is rich with combat techniques that are practical and effective, making it more suitable for younger people.

''' (2) Yang Style '''

The most popular style out of the bunch, the Yang style is widely practiced around the globe. Yang style is characterized by gentle, graceful and slow movements, which are easier to learn and promote health.
As the most popular style out of the bunch, the Yang style is widely practiced around the globe. It is characterized by gentle, graceful and slow movements, which are easier to learn and promote health.--[[User:Wu Siyi|Wu Siyi]] ([[User talk:Wu Siyi|talk]]) 15:53, 14 June 2021 (UTC)

''' (3) Wu Style '''

Also referred to as “The 1st Wu style”, it is the result of the combination of Yang and Chen styles. The movements are done in smaller frames with slow, smooth movements and a high posture.

''' (4) Wu Style '''

Dubbed as the “The 2nd Wu style”, it is the second most popular style practiced today. The defining differences of this style are in its hand form, pushing hands and weapons trainings. It is characterized by softness and emphasis on redirecting incoming force. It is also rich with hand techniques.

''' (5) Sun Style '''

This style focuses on smooth, flowing movements that exclude the more rigorous physical movements found in the other four styles, such as crouching and leaping. Due to its extra gentleness, it is most suitable to be used for physical therapy.

== Health Benefits ==
When learned correctly and performed regularly, Tai Chi can be a positive part of an overall approach to improving health. The benefits of Tai Chi may include:

''' (1) Physical and Mental Health '''

Several cross-sectional studies indicated that older adults who practiced Tai Chi regularly reported better mental and physical health, (Li 2010, 5) mental well-being, (Zhang 2020, 865-871) flexibility, (Zhu 2007, 355-357) reaction time, walking speed, and mobility compared to people who did not practice Tai Chi. (Wang 2004, 1128)

''' (2) Balance and Fall Prevention '''

Tai Chi movements are steady and slow, shifting from one side to the other with coordinating upper body movements. These movements help the core regain balance and reduces the risk of falling in elderly. (Jin 2005, 44-48)

''' (3) Strength and Endurance '''

Researches show that individuals who practiced Tai Chi at least 3 times a week on the regular, had higher strength and performance level. (Hu 2012, 51)

''' (4) Chronic Illness Prevention '''

Tai Chi helps in the treatment chronic illnesses like heart disease, blood pressure, arthritis, digestive disorders, depression and a few others. (Cui 2004, 1132)

''' (5) Respiratory System Regulation '''

Breathing is one of the three parts of Tai Chi. The deep breathing helps treat respiratory alignments such as asthma, bronchitis, and emphysema. (Feng 2019, 87-90)

''' (6) Aerobic Capacity '''

Aerobic capacity diminishes as we age, but research on traditional forms of aerobic exercise shows that it can improve with regular training. Investigators found that individuals who practiced Tai Chi for one year (classical yang style with 108 postures) had higher aerobic capacity than sedentary individuals around the same age. The authors state that Tai Chi may be a form of aerobic exercise. (Feng 2019, 87-90)
Aerobic capacity diminishes as we age, but research on traditional forms of aerobic exercise shows that it can improve with regular training. Investigators found that individuals who practiced Tai Chi for one year (classical yang style with 108 postures) had higher aerobic capacity than sedentary individuals around the same age.Therefore, Tai Chi may be a form of aerobic exercise.--[[User:Wu Siyi|Wu Siyi]] ([[User talk:Wu Siyi|talk]]) 15:56, 14 June 2021 (UTC)

== Terms and Expressions ==

Tai Chi 太极拳

The Book of Changes 《易经》

Chen Style 陈式太极拳（陈王廷）

Yang Style 杨式太极拳（杨露禅）

Wu Style (the 1st) 武式太极拳（武禹襄）

Wu Style (the 2nd) 吴式太极拳（吴鉴泉）

Sun Style 孙式太极拳（孙禄堂）

Chronic illness 慢性疾病

Arthritis 关节炎

Digestive disorders 消化不良;消化疾病;消化系统紊乱

Asthma 哮喘

Bronchitis 支气管炎

Emphysema 肺气肿

Aerobic capacity 有氧能力;有氧运动能力

== Questions ==

1. What ancient Chinese philosophy is Tai Chi based on?

2. What are the 5 main types of Tai Chi?

3. When did Chen Wangting develop the Chen Style Tai Chi?

4. Which Tai Chi style is the most popular?

5. What are the characteristics of Wu Style (the 2nd Wu Style)?

6. How many benefits of Tai Chi are mentioned in this article? What are they?

7. Why is Tai Chi good for balance and fall prevention?

== Answers ==

1. Taoism.‬

2. They are Chen Style, Yang Style, Wu/Hao Style, Wu Style and Sun Style.

3. Around 1670.

4. Yang Style.

5. It is characterized by softness and emphasis on redirecting incoming force. It is also rich with hand techniques.

6. Six. They are physical and mental health, balance and fall prevention, strength and endurance, chronic illness prevention, respiratory system regulation, aerobic capacity.

7. Because Tai Chi movements are steady and slow, shifting from one side to the other with coordinating upper body movements. These movements help the core regain balance and reduces the risk of falling in elderly.

== References ==
[1] Dr Paul Lam and Nancy Kayne保罗·林博士和南希·凯恩. (2006). Tai Chi for Beginners and the 24 Forms[太极拳初学者与24式太极拳]. Limelight Press[利姆莱特出版社] 1-10.

[2] Dr Paul Lam保罗·林博士. (2006). Teaching Tai Chi Effectively[有效的太极拳教学]. Tai Chi Productions[太极拳制作公司] 1-15.

[3] Wang Gang 王岗. (2001). 太极拳对现代人心理调节的作用[Functions of shadowboxing to psychological adjustment of modern men].武汉体育学院学报[Journal of Wuhan Institute of Physical Education]. (1)107-108.

[4] Li Guoping, Fang Yanchun, Zhang Yingjie, Duan Gongxiang 李国平,方艳春,张颖杰,段功香. (2010).太极拳运动对中老年人身心健康的影响[Effect of Tai Chi intervention on physical and mental health of middle-aged and elderly population]. 护理学杂志[Journal of Nursing Science] (2) 5-7.

[5] Zhang Qi, Song Huimin, Cao Rui, Sun Xue, Jin Yi 张琪,宋慧敏,曹睿,孙雪,金奕. (2020).太极拳对轻度认知障碍老年人认知功能干预效果的Meta分析[Effects of Tai Chi on cognitive function for aged with Mild Cognitive Impairment: a Meta-analysis]. 中国护理管理[Chinese Nursing Management] (6) 865-871.

[6] Zhu Jiaxin 朱家新. (2007). 太极拳对老年人心理健康的影响研究[Research on the Influence of Taijiquan on Senior Citizens′ Mental Health]. 湖北体育科技[Journal of Hubei Sports Science] (3) 355-357.

[7] Wang Li, Wang Sen 王利,王森. (2004). 太极拳锻炼对中老年人心理因素影响分析[Effect of shadowboxing on the psychological factors in middle and aged people]. 中国临床康复Chinese Journal of Clinical Rehabilitation (6)1128-1129.

[8] Jin Changlong, Ban Yusheng 金昌龙,班玉生. (2005). 太极拳练习对中老年人静态平衡能力的影响[Effect of Taijiquan Exercise on Middle and Old-aged Persons' Static Balance Ability]. 上海体育学院学报Journal of Shanghai Physical Education Institute (1)44-48.

[9] Hu Zhendong, Zhao Xianqing 胡振东,赵先卿. (2012). 太极拳运动对健康体适能的影响[Tai Chi for Health Fitness Influence]. 淮北师范大学学报(自然科学版) [Journal of Huaibei Normal University (Natural Science Edition)] (2)51-55.

[10] Cui Dongxue崔冬雪. (2004). 太极拳运动对老年人心血管功能的影响及机制探讨[Effects of shadowboxing on cardiovascular functions in old people and its mechanism]. 华东师范大学Shanghai: East China Normal University. 中国临床康复[Chinese Journal of Clinical Rehabilitation] (6)1132-1133.

[11] Feng Wei冯卫. (2019). 健康中国背景下太极拳健身功效研究[Research on the Fitness Efficiency of Tai Chi under the Background of “Healthy China”]. 广州体育学院学报[Journal of Guangzhou Sport University] (1) 87-90.

=Wǔ Sīyí 伍斯仪 Shu Embroidery (Sichuan Embroidery)=
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==Introduction==
[[File:"shu".jpg|300px|right|(https://img.henan.gov.cn/da73c2f49b89def7e36153a1a784f423?p=0)]]

"Shu" was a beautiful and rich land in Chinese ancient times. In the book Origin of Chinese Characters(Shuo Wen Jie Zi), it explained that the character "Shu" looked like a silkworm crawling on a wide leaf. And in 12 types of oracle bone inscriptions, the character "Shu" also had the image of silkworm, which obviously expressed the relationship between "Shu" and silkworm. What's more, there were many legends that showed that Shu was the birthplace of silkworms and the kingdom of silk. For thousands of years, the silk civilization of ancient Shu bred advanced silk weaving technology, which not only provided raw materials——silk and silk threads for Shu Embroidery, which laid a solid foundation for the development of Shu embroidery; but also created an industrial and cultural environment for the development and prosperity of Shu embroidery.(Zhao Min 2011)

==History and Development==
Shu embroidery, also called "Sichuan embroidery", mainly refers to embroidery in Chengdu-centered Sichuan Plain. Due to cultural and geographical factors, it also developed to the surrounding areas such as Chongqing. Shu embroidery and Xiang embroidery in Hunan, Yue embroidery in Guangdong, Su embroidery in Suzhou are called "Chinese four famous embroidery".

Shu embroidery was originated in the early Shang Dynasty. In the Spring and Autumn Warring States Period, the most developed textile industry was in Qilu area. With Qin gradually decreasing the six countries, the center of textile biased towards the ancient Shu. Besides, people's demand for diversity in clothing had made embroidery and brocade develop side by side, and produced the unique "brocade stitch" of Shu embroidery. In the Three Kingdoms Period, the nobles rushed to buy the splendid fabrics of Shu, so Shu embroidery became a symbol of wealth and status. At that time, Shu Embroidery was even used to exchange for carriages and horses to prepare for war. With the trade on the Silk Road, the demand for silk fabrics surged. In Sui and Tang Dynasties, Shu Embroidery developed rapidly and reached its peak, its weaving and embroidering patterns were also greatly enriched. Among them, the pattern invented by Dou Shilun was widely adopted and popular.

The hedonics of the emperors of the Song Dynasty greatly stimulated the demand for embroidery and promoted its development. And affected by Central Plains Embroidery School, people tended to pay more attention to the decoration and artistry of Shu embroidery rather than its practicality. Therefore, a large number of Shu embroidery were created on the basis of calligraphy and paintings of celebrities in the Song Dynasty. In the Ming Dynasty, in order to restore economy, Zhu Yuanzhang took effective measures to develop industry and commerce. Thanks to this, traditional textile technology had developed by leaps and bounds. Especially cross-stitch work and drawnwork were appreciated by civilians for their durability. In the Qing Dynasty, the industry of Shu embroidery gradually developed from home handmade to market-oriented management. In the late Qing, Shu embroidery formed a production and sales distribution center in Chengdu. With the improvement of the quality and quantity of Shu embroidery, a large number of works were spread overseas, which greatly enhanced the popularity of Shu embroidery in the world. Although various wars in modern times had a huge impact on Shu embroidery, and its skills had once been on the verge of extinction, after the foundation of new China, Chinese government attached great importance to the revival of Shu embroidery. Construction of a large number of technical centers and cultural bases helped to maintain the cultural treasure for generations. (Zhao Min 2011 3-6).

Nowadays,the young generation have also contributed to the development and inheritance of Shu embroidery. What's more, extensive international exchanges and cultural dissemination let Shu embroidery shine home and abroad, making it possible for it to return to glory and prosperity.

==Characteristics==
===1. Material Selection===

The materials used in Shu embroidery are especially carefully selected, the base material is usually silk soft satin, the embroidery thread is silk thread, and there are two strands in one thread, eight silk threads in one velvet. Generally, Shu embroideries are made of silk, satin, spun silk, yarn and crepe, and the threads and materials used vary according to the needs of the embroideries.(Xia Fangsheng 2020)

===2. Embroidery Techniques===

According to statistics, there are 12 categories of stitches and more than 130 kinds of stitches in Shu embroidery, which is the richest among the four famous embroideries, and the 70 processes of exquisite "Yi Jin Thread" are even unique to Shu embroidery. Commonly used stitches include halo stitch, needle laying, needle rolling, needle cutting, needle blending, needle covering, etc. Halo stitch is one of the basic techniques of Shu embroidery and is often used to express the texture of the work, reflecting its light, color and shape, so that the embroidered work comes to life. There are single-sided embroidery, double-sided embroidery and double-sided triple-variant embroidery, among which double-sided triple-variant embroidery is the highest and most difficult expression of Shu embroidery techniques.(Wu You 2020)

===3. Classic Patterns===
[[File:furongjinli.jpg|400px|left|(https://tse4-mm.cn.bing.net/th/id/OIP.7S0tYGuD8A7Ua7AIAIEBmgAAAA?pid=ImgDet&rs=1)]]

[[File:panda.jpg|400px|middle|(https://th.bing.com/th/id/Rc0701668260e4682810a1b87106f8f01?rik=ADTIBAGgsTyBJw&riu=http%3a%2f%2fwww.eastimpression.com%2fshow8.asp%3fid%3d6494&ehk=wZfTcgCnGSQyWhYnShT0t8jK185t4jueFwe9%2fSAEfiE%3d&risl=&pid=ImgRaw)]]

[[File:golden snub-nosed monkey.jpg|200px|right|(https://th.bing.com/th/id/Rad710c0d7e1c3690b004974911eddc92?rik=5FP8xPueFc7P8g&riu=http%3a%2f%2fp1.pstatp.com%2flarge%2fpgc-image%2f1e02c6a2e40647d6becfc1d090a60440&ehk=zsT2ThZuZ6IQcoPshymuQXg2RCfv8aQGHVTE2JcARjI%3d&risl=&pid=ImgRaw]]

The themes of Shu embroidery works are mostly beautiful and auspicious objects, such as dragon and phoenix symbolizing nobility, mandarin ducks symbolizing a happy couple, butterflies symbolizing happy love, hibiscus flowers symbolizing prosperity and wealth, and carp symbolizing luck and good fortune.
What's more, Shu embroidery also often features rare animals unique to Sichuan, such as the panda and the golden snub-nosed monkey.(Wu Nan Wang Kangjian Chen Zhang Liu Cairong Zeng Rong Xiu Manling Zhu Lirong 2018))

===4. Color Matching===
[[File:wucai.jpg|300px|left|(https://th.bing.com/th/id/R11a8f770d045f8fcc2deadd914904287?rik=3F4%2bySpykgzKdA&riu=http%3a%2f%2fwww.zjaca.com%2fKUpload%2fimage%2f20190102%2f20190102143304_8643.jpg&ehk=UyRaNbZmJ1axrsYv5G4oqvVPTGvQ7LoGstst%2fp01o3Q%3d&risl=&pid=ImgRaw)]]

There are four basic color matching methods in Shu embroidery, namely the overlay color matching method, the single-color matching method, the upper five-color matching method and the lower five-color matching method. The first two color schemes are used to produce a simple and generous work with consistency and coherence. The upper color scheme is bright and vivid, while the lower color scheme is quiet, elegant, and not too bright.(Hang Jianqin 2017)

==Current Situation and Inheritance==

Although Shu embroidery is one of the four famous embroideries, it is much lower than Su embroidery and Xiang embroidery in terms of domestic consumption and foreign export sales. At present, most of the enterprises engaged in the creation of Shu embroidery are small in scale, with insufficient brand influence, backward talent training mechanism, and the problem of talent gap is prominent. Most of the embroideries on the market are mainly handicrafts, but there are few practical items.(Yang Dequan 2020)

For Shu embroidery to have a breakthrough, it should integrate Shu culture with imagination and storytelling on the basis of retaining its own characteristics, rather than purely catering to market tastes. The government should strengthen the market regulation of the cultural sector on Shu embroidery as a cultural heritage, encourage the development of local Shu embroidery enterprises as well as give more preferential policies. By developing Bashu culture, preserving Shu embroidery works and nurturing back-up talents, Shu embroidery is thus consistently protected and inherited.(Xue Xiaoqian Li Qiju 2015.07.15)

==References==
*Zhao Min赵敏.(2011). 古蜀丝绸文明[Ancient Shu Silk Civilization]. 中国蜀绣Chinese Shu Embroidery,四川科学技术出版社,2011.05, 1-50
*Xia Fangsheng夏方胜(2020). 成都蜀绣[Chengdu Shu Embroidery]. 《地方文化研究》Local Cultural Studies(6),2020
*Wu You吴忧(2020). 蜀绣纹样在文创产品中的创新性应用[Innovative Application of Shu Embroidery Patterns in Cultural and Creative Products]. 《西部皮革》Western Leather(3) 2020
*Wu Nan Wang Kangjian Chen Zhang Liu Cairong Zeng Rong Xiu Manling Zhu Lirong吴楠王康建陈政刘才容曾蓉徐曼玲朱利容(2018) 蜀绣纹样的美好寓意[The Bautiful Symbolism of Shu Embroidery Patterns]. 《纺织科技进展》Advances in Textile Science and Technology(12), 2018
*Hang Jianqin杭建琴(2017) 蜀绣与色彩[Shu Embroidery and Color]. 《天工》The Work of Heaven(2),2017
*Yang Dequan杨德全(2020)《现代艺术》"文艺百家"工程·文艺讲坛Modern Art" "100 Artists of Literature and Art" Project - Literature and Art Forum(7),2020,110-115
*Xue Xiaoqian Li Qiju薛晓倩李奇菊(2015) 浅谈蜀绣历史发展与保护[A Brief Introduction to the Historical Development and Conservation of Shu Embroidery]. 《民俗民风》Folk customs and folkways，2015.07.15 87-88

==Terms and Expressions==
Origin of Chinese Characters 说文解字

central Plains Embroidery School 中原绣派

cross-stitch work 挑花

drawnwork 抽纱绣

cottage handmade 家庭手工制作

market-oriented management 市场化经营

subject mater 题材

silk 绸

satin 缎

spun silk 绢

yarn 纱

crepe 绉

Stitch 针法

single-sided embroidery 单面绣

double-sided embroidery 双面绣

double-sided triple-variant embroidery 双面三异绣

the overlay color matching method 套色配色法

the single-color matching method 单色配色法

the upper five-color matching method 上五彩配色法

the lower five-color matching method 下五彩配色法

back-up talents 后备人才

==Questions==

1. When and where did Shu embroidery came into being?

2. What are the common used stitches of Shu embroidery?

3. What are the classic patterns of Shu embroidery?

4. How should Shu embroidery be inherited?

==Answers==

1.In the early Shang Dynasty; in Chengdu-centered Sichuan Plain.

2. Halo stitch, needle laying, needle rolling, needle cutting, needle blending, and needle covering.

3. Beautiful and auspicious objects, such as dragon and phoenix, mandarin ducks, butterflies, hibiscus flowers, panda and the golden snub-nosed monkey.

4. It should integrate Shu culture with imagination and storytelling on the basis of retaining its own characteristics, rather than purely catering to market tastes. The government should strengthen the market regulation of the cultural sector on Shu embroidery as a cultural heritage, encourage the development of local Shu embroidery enterprises as well as give more preferential policies

=Wuqinxi (Frolics of the Five Animals) - Wú Xīnxīn 吴欣欣 201930096026 =

== '''Introduction''' ==

[[File:wuhuhu.jpg|800px|right|（https://ss3.bdstatic.com/70cFv8Sh_Q1YnxGkpoWK1HF6hhy/it/u=2474219657,1530866572&fm=26&gp=0.jpg）]]
Frolics of animals originated in the period of Spring and Autumn, and the Warring States Period, from Frolics of the Two Animals, Frolics of the Three Animals to Frolics of Multiple Animals. Based on this, Hua Tuo developed the Wuqinxi (Frolics of the Five Animals), a series of exercises based on movements of the tiger, deer, bear, ape, and crane. These easy to do, fun to practice movements are very complete for physical conditioning and internal health and well. It now enjoys a high reputation all over the world. (Anhui Tourism Administration)

春秋战国: the Spring and Autumn Period and the Warring States Period--[[User:Yao Yang|Yao Yang]] ([[User talk:Yao Yang|talk]]) 14:03, 15 June 2021 (UTC)

== '''Founder''' ==

[[File:huatuo.jpg|200px|left|(file:///E:/%E8%AF%BE%E4%B8%9A/%E5%A4%A7%E4%BA%8C%E4%B8%8B/%E4%B8%AD%E5%8D%8E%E6%96%87%E5%8C%96%E5%9F%BA%E7%A1%80/%E6%9C%9F%E6%9C%AB%E8%AE%BA%E6%96%87%E5%9B%BE/%E5%8D%8E%E4%BD%97.jfif)]]

Hua Tuo was born in Qiao, present-day Anhui Province (present-day Haoxian County, Anhui Province), which is one of the four major distribution centers of Chinese medicinal materials. In the Chronicles of the Later Han Dynasty, it is said that: "Knowing well the way to keep one in good health, Hua Tuo still appeared in the prime of his life when he was almost 100, and so was regarded as immortal.(Subhuti Dharmananda, Ph.D., Director, Institute for Traditional Medicine, Portland, Oregon.)

Hua Tuo (141-208 CE) was a contemporary of Zhang Zhongjing. He traveled from town to town treating patients and learning from other doctor's practices. He is famous for his skill as a surgeon and his application of anesthesia. The anesthesia was given as a powder called mafeisan that was dissolved in a fermented drink before performing surgery. It has been suggested the powder may have been hemp since its uses were unknown at that time. In addition to surgeries, Hua Tuo also suggested that his patients should use physical exercise. He devised movements that were similar to the movements of five different animals. These were the tiger, deer, bear, monkey and bird. (Traditional Chinese Medicine History - Han Dynasty By Shen-Nong TCM)

== '''Frolics of the Five Animals''' ==

'''Tiger'''

Tiger Play is to imitate the shape and movement of a tiger. The features of a tiger are its ferocity, strong body, and good at jumping and scratching. The most important element in the Tiger Play is to imitate the awe inspiring attitude of a tiger. Its spirit is shown in its eyes and its awesomeness comes out of its craws. It stared at angry eyes and moved like wind. It twists its waist with force, wags head and swings tail, and vibrates its body. (Five Animal Frolics)

The tiger is an animal that is known for its speed, agility and external strength. Training under this form will develop the bones, joints, and tendons as it requires intricate coordinated movements. The body is trained in the manner where it holds in twisting stances to develop a coil like exertion. This centers the body to the ground and develops the legs to become more graceful yet deadly. This form is perhaps the most physically challenging of all the forms. Mastery of this form will strengthen the forearms, legs, torso and hands. (Tak Wah Eng, The Spirit of the Five Animals, p. 101. )

'''Deer'''

The Deer Play is to imitate the shape and movement of a deer hoping to attain long life and pure soul like a deer. The features of a deer are its gentle disposition, swift movement, love to push with horns, and good at running. When it stands it likes to stretch its neck to glance at things afar. The deer also likes looking at left and right and its rear foot. It is also good at moving its tail bones (sacrum). The tail bone is the place where the Jen and Du Meridians meet. Thus, during practice, the practitioner not only needs to imitate the attitude of a deer with swift movement and calm spirit, but also needs to focus attention on the tail bone. This will guide Qi to the whole body, open meridians, circulate blood, relax tendons and bones, and benefit kidney and strengthen waist. It can also enhance blood circulation in the abdomen. This play is suitable for curing dysfunctional nerves in the internal organs, chronicle infections of the internal organs in the abdomen, fatigue in the waist muscles, nerve pain in the pelvis, deteriorated thigh bones, and the lack of sex drives. (Five Animal Frolics)

[[File:ple.jpg|200px|right|(https://gimg2.baidu.com/image_search/src=http%3A%2F%2Fn.sinaimg.cn%2Fsinacn20%2F292%2Fw640h452%2F20180329%2Fca2e-fyssmmc3957070.jpg&refer=http%3A%2F%2Fn.sinaimg.cn&app=2002&size=f9999,10000&q=a80&n=0&g=0n&fmt=jpeg?sec=1626271004&t=48422f584b1ce63147f40e5808b5b4c2)]]

'''Bear'''

In general, bear forms emphasize turning, twisting, and bending at the waist; and a focus on the power of the shoulders and upper back when reaching, grabbing, and "clawing." Bear forms usually have the feet separated in a horse stance or lower lunges, which helps exercise (stretch and strengthen) the lower body.

Awkward looking but clear in mind. It walks with lightness inside heavy steps.
Gathering Qi at Middle Dantian. It shakes and rampages with force in the shoulders. The bear looks awkward and clumsy, soft as if without bones, its temperament is stable, simple and honest, and it walks with heavy steps. However, flexibility and steadiness are hidden within the heavy steps. Do not mimic the heavy, simple and hones bearing of the bear only, but also try to show the flexibility and steadiness during the exercise. Shaking and rocking are features of the bears' movements, so exert forces with the upper arms (including the shoulders, elbows, hands, hips, knees and feet). Conduct Qi to the Middle Dantian, so as to accelerate deep abdominal respiration and form Dantian Qi.
(Jiao Guorui, Qigong Essentials for Health Promotion, 1988, pp. 193-195)

'''Ape'''

The Ape Play is to imitate the shape and movements of an ape to show its alertness, agility, and constant movement. The features of an ape are its love to imitate, agile movements, good at picking fruit using upper limbs, and escaping attacks from other animals. You should not only practice the agility of your limbs on the outside, but also practice controlling your thoughts on the inside. The goal of the "Ape Play" is to reach a level of "pure and tranquil in thoughts, light but strong body, and "body is moving but mind is calm". This play will enhance the functions of the heart and lung and strengthen the kidney and waist. This play is suitable for people who are older, weaker or in low spirits. (Five Animal Frolics)

When performing the ape exercise, try to imitate the light and swift movements of the ape, but for the internal exercise you should keep your mind like a bright moon shining in the quiet and still night. So the ape exercise is externally dynamic and internally static.
(Wu Qin Xi, Chinese Health Qigong Association, 2007, p. 66)

'''Crane'''

The bird exercise involves imitating a crane, traditionally regarded in China as a symbol of calmness, litheness, and longevity. In the practice of this exercise, you should imitate a crane standing upright, with its beak uplifted and displaying a carefree and contented mood, as well as the relaxed manner with which it flaps its wings. Protrude the neck and stiffen the back to drive the flow of Qi upward when raising your arms. Contract the chest and relax the abdomen to drive the flow of Qi downward to Dantaian in the lower abdomen when bringing your arms together downward. The crane exercise can promote circulation of Qi and blood in all the meridians and improve the motility of all the limbs.
(Wu Qin Xi, Chinese Health Qigong Association, 2007, p. 79)

== '''Benefits''' ==
The "Frolics of the Five Animals" mimics the fierceness of tiger, peacefulness of deer, calmness of bear, agility of ape, and lightness of crane to train the body and mind. It can improve body strength, move blood and Qi, and relax tendons and meridians so people will not get aged quickly.
If you can practice it persistently, you will enjoy light spirit, enhanced appetite, improved agility, and firm steps. This has the functions of nurturing spirit, regulating the flow of Qi and blood, helping Jang and Fu, opening meridians, activating sinews and bones, and benefiting joints. The "Frolics of the Five Animals" is also effective in preventing and curing lung diseases, asthma, high blood pressure, heheart-crownisease, weak nerve system, and indigestion, etc. In addition, frequent practice of the "Five Animal-Frolics" can correct abnormal footings and walking postures, prevent wilting of muscles, and improve body balance. It is also beneficial to other symptoms. Practitioners should practice for 15 minutes twice daily, one in the morning and one in the evening. Also, the practitioner should select a field with fresh air and luxuriant vegetation.

'''Tiger''' - to develop muscular strength. The Tiger strengthens the waist, sinews and kidneys and builds internal power.

'''Deer''' - to develop grace and relaxation. The Deer gives a long stretch to the legs and spine, creating open, expansive movement with very flexible sinew and bones.

'''Bear''' - to develop rooted power. The Bear creates greater leg strength, fortifies the bones and develops energy in the kidneys, your fundamental source of vitality.

'''Ape''' - to develop suppleness and agility. Become quick witted, alert and nimble.

'''Crane''' - to develop balance, lightness and agility. The Crane cools and relaxes your whole body, balances the heart-energy, gently stretches your ligaments and releases your spine.

(Five Animal Frolics)

== '''Terms and Expressions''' ==

Frolics of the Five Animals 五禽戏

Hua Tuo 华佗

Chronicles of the Later Han Dynasty 《后汉书》

Chi-kung 气功

the Tiger Frolics 虎戏

the Deer Frolics 鹿戏

the Bear Frolics 熊戏

the Ape Frolics 猿戏

the Crane Frolics 鹤戏

curing lung diseases 肺病

asthma 哮喘

high blood pressure 高血压

indigestion 消化不良

to move blood and Qi 活血益气

to regulate the flow of Qi and blood 理气活血

== '''Questions''' ==

1.Who is the founder of Wuqinxi?

2.What animals does Wuqinxi imitate?

3.What does the crane symbolize in traditional Chinese culture?

4.What kind of play is externally dynamic and internally static?

5.What are the characteristics of the deer?

== '''Answers''' ==

1.Hua Tuo.

2.Tiger; Deer; Bear; Apt; Crane.

3.The Crane is traditionally regarded in China as a symbol of calmness, litheness, and longevity.

4.The ape exercise is externally dynamic and internally static.

5.The features of a deer are its gentle disposition, swift movement, love to push with horns, and good at running.

== '''References''' ==

[1] Anhui Tourism Administration 安徽省旅游局 http://www.chinadaily.com.cn/m/anhui/travel/2010-06/29/content_10036053.htm

[2]"Hua Tuo" by Subhuti Dharmananda, Ph.D., Director, Institute for Traditional Medicine, Portland, Oregon.

[3] Traditional Chinese Medicine History - Han Dynasty By Shen-Nong TCM. http://www.shen-nong.com/eng/history/qinhan.html

[4] Tak Wah Eng, The Spirit of the Five Animals, p. 101.

[5] Jiao Guorui焦国瑞, Qigong Essentials for Health Promotion, 1988, p. 193-195

[6] Chinese Health Qigong Association国家体育总局健身气功管理中心Wu Qin Xi《五禽戏》2007, p. 66 p. 79

[7] Five Animal Frolics

=Yāo Yáng 么阳 Chinese Traditional Cultivation Culture=
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==Introduction==
Chinese culture is established on the basis of cultivation. Different from the western Fishing-Hunting Culture and Nomadic Civilization, Chinese farming civilization flourishes in the fertile land between the Yellow River and the Yangtse River, which enables ancient Chinese to have steadier access to food. Every development of agriculture (mainly about planting) is followed by an increment of population, and more population, more food requirements. Then the circle forms, agricultural instruments and institutions must be improved sequentially.

==History==
About how the ancient Chinese learned to plant crops, there is a mythology: Shen Nong was a great leader of ancient Chinese. It was believed that the leader of Jiang tribe (where people’s last name was Jiang) got his throne for knowing how to use fire. Thus, each leader of this tribe was called “Emperor Fire”. Shen Nong was the first “Emperor Fire”. As a leader, Shen Nong had the responsibility to lead his people a better life. About his contributions, there are two famous events. One is “Shen Nong tastes hundreds of herbal medicine”, another is “Shen Nong plants 5 cereal grains” [1][2][[File:Img.51wendang.jpeg|200px|thumb|left|alt five cereal grains]]. Shen Nong whose name in Chinese means “God Farmer” is regarded as the origin of Chinese cultivation. And his story maybe a myth, but at least that proves Chinese people has been working on planting long, long ago. Here are some archaeological evidences:
The earliest discovery of ancient plants in China is the store of rices in the Hemudu Culture remains[3][4]. The cabonized rices weight 150 tons, which is discovered to have existed since 7000 years ago. Almost in the same era of Hemudu People, primitive people in Banpo remains planted earliest millet.

===The Development of Cultivation Technology===
In primitive age, Chinese use farm tools made of bones.[[File:Mmexport1623687318765.jpg|200px|thumb|left|alt 耒耜]]
In Shang Dynasty and Zhou Dynasty, iron farm tools （picture2[[File:IMG_20210615_152815.jpg|200px|thumb|left|alt 2]]）appeared. And cattle helped people to plow（picture3[[File:IMG_20210615_152805.jpg|200px|thumb|left|alt 3]]）. So killing a cattle for no reason is against the law.
In Western Han Dynasty, Louche, an animal-drawn seed plough, was invented.
In Eastern Han Dynasty, Bi Lan invented Fanche, Turn-Over Water Wheel[9][[Media:P1.ssl.qhimg.jpeg]].( Fanche can also be called as Loongbone Water Wheel. Through Fanche,the water is lifted from water to irrigate the cultivated land. It consists of long plank channel in which placed are dozens of the matched scraper blades(or wooden dipper)hinging end to end in order of circle. At the top and the bottom both have a toothed wooden shaft. The shaft above moves, and the blades spin. So the water is brought from bottom to top. Its power can get from people, animals or water.)
In Tang Dynasty, Quyuanli, crankshaft plough[6], was invented. The plough with incurved shafts was invented by Han people during the Tang Dynasty. It’s referred to as a crankshaft plough and it’s different from a plough that has a straight shaft. It was first popularized in Suzhou and it was known as a “Jiangdong plough.” Compared with the frame of the previous ploughs, the frame of a crankshaft plough is much smaller and lighter. It can easily make turns, making it more flexible to operate. This saves work time. Also, the water wheel is improved and becomes Tongche[[Media:Economy.guoxue.jpeg]].[9] (Tongche’s function is as same as Fanche, but it mainly uses water as its power and it does more than Fanche. Only in some dry areas, animal power is used. Erect a water wheel in the place where water run fast, the bottom soaked into the water and other parts exposed above. Some bamboo tubes are tied obliquely on the wheel. They are getting water with the spinning of the wheel. When they come to the highest point, the water is poured in the channel automatically, flowing into the field.). Southern rice were planted in the skill called Seedling Transplanting Cultivation. Raise rice seed to sprouts first, then move them to the fields. This increased the survival rate and output. The economic center became transfer from North to South.
The growth of crops has to do with water. To water the crops, ancient Chinese not only invented related machines mentioned above, but also built a lot of water conservancy projects. The most famous one is the Dujiang Dam ( also called the Dujiangyan irrigation system) built in 256 B.C. To this day, it still benefits the southwestern people.
The growth of crops has to do with the weather, too. The plants grow according to the nature time. The 24 solar terms is one of the conclusions of weather. Accurate time measures allowed ancient people to work and plant.
The summary of ancient people’s wisdom of agriculture kept to today has the great four books. They are Si Shengzhi Articles in Western Han Dynasty, Essentials of People’s Happiness in Southern Wei Dynasty, Agricultural Book in Yuan Dynasty and The complete book of agricultural administration in Ming Dynasty.

===The Kind of Crops===
In primitive age, Hemudu people and Banpo people began to plant rice and millet. China is the earliest country to plant rice and millet.
In Shang Dynasty and Zhou Dynasty, what we called five cereal grains today had been planted completely and people knew how to select good seeds.
In Tang Dynasty, after Zhang Qian in Han Dynasty was sent to a diplomatic mission, more and more kinds of Xiyu[11] came into the land of ancient China at that time. “ The Classics on Tea ”, written by Lu Yu of the Tang Dynasty ( 618 A.D.-907 A.D.) was the world's earliest treatise on tea leave production. Dring Tea is popular in the whole counry.”
In Song Dynasty, “Zhan City” rice in ancient Viet Nam brought to China. The output of rice was much more than before. State Su and State Hu around Lake Tai turned into the most important area of grain production. The saying can be heard today: “Harvest in Su and Hu, Food of Nation Enough”.
In Ming Dynasty, the high-yield crops like corn and sweet potato from America came to China, and were planted widely in Qing Dynasty, which offered enough food to the population explosion at that time.

===The Land Ownership System===
In agricultural society, the farm land means wealth. The ownership of land is the most important problem.
In primitive society, land belonged to the whole tribe and people worked together.
In Shan Dynasty and Zhou Dynasty, the "Nine Squares" system with one large square divided into 9 small parts, the 8 outer ones being allocated to serfs who had to cultivate the central one for the serf owner. In fact, it was an aristocratic land ownership in the name of country. It was a period of transition from public ownership to private ownership.
In the Spring and Autumn Period and the Warring States Period, the use of cattle ploughing with iron plow made big progress in social productivity. The surplus products redistribution and new-appear market broke the foundation of Nine Squares system. The Land Private-Owning system appeared. The land could belong to farmers, landlords and monarchs. This pervasive land ownership system continued to modern times. Since the Land Reform in The People's Republic of China, it had been abandoned.
In Southern Wei Dynasty and Tang Dynasty, Land Equalization Policy was implemented together with the Land Private-Owning System. After war, many land became free land. These lands belonged to the country. And the government assigned them to common people. The land returned to the government after their death. The system finally failed, for the rich took away the nationalized lands by trickery or by force.

Chinese have an indissoluble bond with land and cultivation, which endows them with the good quality of diligence, courage,temperance,patience and kindness.A brilliant culture eats up on the adequate materals made by mature agriculture.However,their deep love of their land used to prevent the change of ancient China from feudalism to capitalism. The businessman would buy a new land as a landlord rather than invest his business with money earned. Even in modern China, people prefer to buy their own house rather than rent one. And modern Chinese regard planting as a good habit and hobby, they love to plant fruits, vegetables and something to eat in their garden or in the big flowerpot on the balcony.

==Terms and Expressions==

农耕文明：the Cultivation Culture

渔猎文明：the Fishing-Hunting Culture

游牧文明：Nomadic Civilization

两河流域（长江和黄河）：Two-River-Drainage Area

炎帝（神农）: Emperor Fire(Shen Nong)

五谷：Five Cereal Grains，which contains(稻)rice,(黍)millet([ladin]Panicum miliaceum, yellow millet, that has two kinds, sticky or not sticky.),(稷)millet(colorful),(麦)wheat and (豆)bean. Those are general names of different grains taken as staple food in ancient and modern China.

河姆渡文明：the Hemudu Culture

半坡文明：the Banpo Culture

耧车:Louche, an animal-drawn seed plough

曲辕犁(Quyuanli)： Crankshaft

翻车(Fanche)：Turn-over Water Wheel

筒车：Tongche(literation, “che” refers to wheeled machine)

育秧移植栽培：Seedling Transplanting Cultivation

都江堰：the Dujiang Dam

《汜胜之书》：Si Shengzhi’s Articles, written by Si shengzhi

《齐民要术》贾思勰：Essentials of People’s Happiness (CH’I MIN YAO SHU[10])，written by Jia Sixie

《农书》王祯：Agricultural Book,written by Wang Zhen

《农政全书》徐光启: The complete book of agricultural administration, written by Xu Guangqi

《茶经》：The Classic on Tea

西域：Xiyu( “xi” in Chinese means “western”, “yu” means area.) usually refers to Xinjiang in Han Dynasty, and with the ancient China communicated more and more with foreign counries, it could refer to many places in Asia and Europe.

占城稻：Zhan City rice

24节气：twenty-four solar terms

井田制：the Nine Squares system

土地私有制：The land private-owning system

均田制：Land Equalization Policy

==References==
[1]《白虎通义•卷一》：“谓之神农何？古之人民，皆食禽兽肉，至于神农，人民众多，禽兽不足。于是神农因天之时，分地之利，制耒耜，教民农作。神而化之，使民宜之，故谓之神农也。”

[2] 《淮南子•修务训》：“古者，民茹草饮水，采树木之实，食蠃蠬之肉。时多疾病毒伤之害，于是神农乃始教民播种五谷，相土地宜，燥湿肥墝高下，尝百草之滋味，水泉之甘苦，令民知所辟就。当此之时，一日而遇七十毒。”

[3]人教版七年级上册历史教科书第一单元第二课：原始的农耕生活

[4] Huang Jianhua黄剑华. (2016). 中国稻作文化的起源探析[An analysis of the origin of Chinese rice culture][J].地方文化研究Local Cultural Study,2016,(04):40-57.

[5]中国古代农业技术的进步发展

[6] 2018年全国大学英语四级翻译习题：曲辕犁,该文章来源于出国留学网，网址：https://english.liuxue86.com/e/3571825.html

[7] Li Falin李发林. (1986). 翻车和筒车浅谈[A brief discussion over turnover and barrel carriage][J]. 文史哲Literature, History and philosophy, 1986(03):76-78.

[8]Li Genpan李根蟠. (2011). 水车起源和发展丛谈(上辑)[The origin and development of waterwheel series(previous series)][J]. 中国农史History of Chinese Agriculture, 2011, 030(002):3-18. 水车起源和发展丛谈(中辑)[ The origin and development of waterwheel series(medium series)][J]. 中国农史History of Chinese Agriculture, 2011(04):22-49. 水车起源和发展丛谈(下辑)[ The origin and development of waterwheel series(next series)][J]. 中国农史History of Chinese Agriculture, 2012(01):3-21.

[9]古代水利工具翻车筒车示意图

[10]石声汉教授曾经出版英文版的《齐民要术概论》，《齐民要术》被音译为此名

[11]王璞西域英译考辨 2017

==Question==
1. What is the land ownership system in Tang Dynasty?

2. When did the high-yield crop come to China?

3. Did Bi Lan invent Fanche?

4. What are the last two of the four great agricultural books according to the time?

==Answer==
1.the Land Private-Owning System and Land Equalization Policy.

2.In Ming Dynasty.

3.Yes.

4. Agricultural Book,written by Wang Zhen and The Complete book of Agricultural Administration, written by Xu Guangqi.

=Yì Míngxiá 易明霞 Ancient literature: The Classic of Mountains and Seas=

== '''1.Overview''' ==

The Ancient Chinese literature ''Shan Hai Jing'', also known as ''The Classic of Mountains and Seas'' and ''The Classic of Great Wilderness'', which was written by various authors in a single time, is a Chinese classic text and a compilation of mythic geography and beasts. It is largely a fabulous geographical and cultural account of pre-Qin China as well as a collection of Chinese mythology. The book is divided into eighteen sections; it describes over 550 mountains and 300 channels.

As for the content, it is not a narrative. The “plot” involves detailed description of locations in the general direction of the ''Mountains, Regions Beyond Seas, Regions Within Seas, and Wilderness''. These descriptions are usually about medicines, animals, and geological features. Many of the creatures are ordinary and normal, while many are fantasy and strange. Each chapter in the book follows roughly the same formula, and the book is also repetitious in the same way. The different chapters of ''The Classic of Mountains and Seas'' progress very much like a travelogue, with each section focusing on a specific region, starting from the central lands (China) and working its way outward in each direction to the outlying lands located beyond the four seas which surround the central lands. The text has a vivid description of different races, deities, plants, and minerals unique to their own region, and records interesting information about each, including the histories and activities of many demonic or divine characters. This eclectic book also contains important information on early medicine (including treatments for impotence and infertility), ways of averting catastrophe with omens, and rites of sacrifice, and familiar and unidentified plants and animals. It provides a guided tour of the ancient known world, moving outward from the famous mountains of central China to the lands “beyond the sea”. In general, it functions as a guide, getting us to know more about the ancient world. (Michael 2001:679; Srisinthon 2018: 104; Sun Yuzhen 2003: 109，110)

=='''2.Authorship'''==
The exact author(s) of the book and the time it was written were controversial. It was originally thought that mythical figures such as Yu the Great or Bo Yi wrote the book. The consensus among modern Sinologists is that the book was not written at a single time by a single author, but rather by numerous people from the period of the Warring States to the beginning of the Han dynasty. Then, based on Yang Xinghui and Luo Dahe’s latest study, the book was initially dedicated by Bo Yi and transmitted orally by his descendants. Then, it was edited by Zhao Gao-lang or Heng the Father and presented to the emperor of the Zhou Dynasty by Zao the Father. Thus, it was passed on to the future generations. (Yang Xinghui / Luo Dahe 2016: 66,73)

=='''3.The Mythical Creatures Within the Book'''==
The mythical creatures portrayed in the book have a romantic quality. They are a combination of ancient ancestors’ awe and admiration for morality, power, life and nature, and the result of ancient ancestors’ wisdom. Although these creatures are different from each other, they have certain features in common. Firstly, they all embody ancient ancestors’ original concept of life. Secondly, they usually have the qualities of a spiritual leader. Lastly, instead of being average people, these mythical creatures are all transcendent deities. (Xue Zhengying 2016: 174,180)
The mythical creatures in the book can be classified into four kinds: the orcs, the aliens, the rare and exotic animals, the elves in plants. Some of them are popular and well know in Asian culture, such as Nine-tailed Fox, Phoenix, Nüwa, Houyi. These images are ancient people’s contemplation towards the origin of life and their exploration of nature. This surrealism has a profound impact on the traditional Chinese culture. Some of the images express Chinese ancestors’ pursuit of peace. Later, this pursuit of peace has also become a permanent pursuit in China. (Xiang Wei 2021: 25-26)

Here are some images and brief introductions to some typical mythical creatures within the book.

[[File:jiuweihu.jpg|400px|left|九尾狐(https://i0.wp.com/www.viewofchina.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/12/fox.jpg?w=880&ssl=1)]]

A nine-tailed white fox. As the legend goes, it was the matchmaker of China’s greatest hydraulic engineer The Great Yu and his wife Tushan Shi.

[[File:jiaoren.jpg|400px|left|鲛人(https://i1.wp.com/www.viewofchina.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/12/fishman.jpg?w=880&ssl=1)]]

Fish Man, a mermaid, specialized in weaving waterproof silk fabric.
According to the Book of Supernatural Beings, Fish Men/Women look like humans but with a fishtail. When they weep, their tears would turn into pearls; and their body oil can keep a lamp burning for a thousand years.

[[File:tu3.jpg|400px|left|中山神(https://i2.wp.com/www.viewofchina.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/12/shanhaijing-zhongshanshen.jpg?w=880&ssl=1)]]

A beast with a dragon head and horse body known as the deity of Mt. Zhongshan.

[[File:tu4.jpg|400px|left|狰(https://i2.wp.com/www.viewofchina.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/12/shanhaijing-zhen-e1576307283400.jpg?w=880&ssl=1)]]

A five-tail creature called Zheng, specialized in preying on man-eating beasts like tigers and leopards.

[[File:tu5.jpg|400px|left|䑏疏(https://i0.wp.com/www.viewofchina.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/12/shanhaijing-guanshu.jpg?w=880&ssl=1)]]

A Chinese unicorn called Quanshu.

[[File:tu6.jpg|400px|left|举父(https://i2.wp.com/www.viewofchina.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/12/monkey.jpg?w=880&ssl=1)]]

A monkey-like creature known as Jufu, specialized in long-range stone hurling which terrified other beasts.

=='''4.Changes in the Status'''==
The earliest reference to ''the Classic of Mountains and Seas'' in history was made by Sima Qian, who expressed strong doubts about its credibility, which had a great impact on the status of ''the Classic of Mountains and Seas'' in the traditional Chinese civilization. Hence, since Liu Xiu of the Han dynasty complied ''the table of the Classic of Mountains and Seas'' and Guo Pu of the Jin dynasty made the first note about ''the Classic'', scarcely had there been someone to study the book. Then, in the early twentieth century, the concept of “mythology” from the West and modern academic theories and methods such as anthropology and mythology were introduced to China. These brought a fundamental change in the status of ''the Classic''. Since then, instead of being criticized by historians, it has become the cornerstone in contemporary study of “Chinese mythology”. (Chen Shuai 2013: 209)

=='''5.Influences on Chinese Literature'''==
''The Classic of Mountains and Seas'' represents the earliest systematic repository of the myths and deities from ancient and early China, and this work has served as the primary inspiration for later Chinese mythology. The systematic presentation of these myths differs in nature from other textual collections of ancient and early myths identified with other parts of the world, which are structured by some forms of narrative continuity. ''The Classic'' is bereft of narrative continuity, and its material is structured in accordance with a mythic geography, in which different mythic elements, themes, and characters are located in terms of place and direction. It has no plot, but the mythological creatures and stories in the book lead to diversified imagination. The mythological creatures in the book have been extensively quoted in Chinese literature. In terms of narrative methods, the Classic is simple and concise in its descriptions but rich in imagination, which profoundly influences the narrative style and technique of the early Chinese novels.(Xiang Wei 2021: 25-26)

==References==
[1]Xiang Wei项薇. (2021). 浅析《山海经》神话形象对后世小说文学的影响[An analysis of the influence of the mythological images in ''the Classic of Mountains and Seas'' on the later literature ]. ''文学研究''Literary Studies(12),25-26. doi:CNKI:SUN:JGWC.0.2021-12-011.

[2]Srisinthon, P.(2018).《山海经》中山的概念[The Concept of Mountains in “The Classic of Mountains and Seas”]. ''瓦莱拉克社会科学杂志''Walailak Journal of Social Science. 11, 1 (Jun. 2018), 101-129.

[3]Xue Zhengying薛正英.(2016). 论《山海经》神话英雄形象及文化精神[An analysis on the images and cultural spirit of the mythical heroes in ''the Classic of Mountains and Seas'']. ''现代交际''Modern Communication(03),174-177+180. doi:CNKI:SUN:XKJJ.0.2016-03-068.

[4]Yang Xinhui & Luo Dahe杨兴慧 & 罗大和.(2016).《山海经》之作者析考[An analysis of the authors of the Classic of Mountains and Seas]. ''西南民族大学学报(人文社科版)''Journal of Southwest Minzu University(Humanities and Social Sciences Edition)(10),66-73. doi:CNKI:SUN:XNZS.0.2016-10-011.

[5]Chen Shuai陈帅. (2013).《山海经》神话研究综述[A review of mythological studies of ''the Classic of Mountains and Seas'']. ''学理论''Academic Theory(11),209-211. doi:CNKI:SUN:LBYT.0.2013-11-098.

[6]Sun Yuzheng孙玉珍(2003).《山海经》研究综述[A review of ''the Classic of Mountains and Seas''][J].''山东理工大学学报(社会科学版)''Journal of Shandong University of Technology(Social Science Edition),2003(01):109-112.

[7]Michael 麦克, T. (2001). ''宗教学报''[The Journal of Religion]. Chicago: The University of Chicago Press芝加哥大学出版社, 81(4), 678-680. http://www.jstor.org/stable/1206093

==Terms and Expressions==
The Classic of Mountains and Seas, The Classic of Great Wilderness 《山海经》

Mountains 《山经》

Regions Beyond Seas 《海外经》

Regions Within Seas 《海内经》

Wilderness 《大荒经》

Yu the Great 大禹

Bo Yi 伯益

modern Sinologist现代汉学家

nine-tailed white fox 九尾白狐

Tushan Shi 涂山氏

Fish Man 鲛人

mermaid 美人鱼

waterproof silk fabric鲛纱

Supernatural Beings 《搜神记》

Mt. Zhongshan 中山神

Zheng 狰

Quanshu 䑏疏

Jufu 举父

==Questions==

1.How many sections is the classic divided into?

2.What does the book describe?

3.How is the book arranged?

4.How was this book created?

5.What makes a great difference on the change of the status of this book?

== Answers ==
1. 18sections

2.It describes over 550 mountains and 300 channels.

3.Each chapter follows roughly the same formula, and the whole book is repetitious in this way. Then, the different chapters of The Classic progress much like a travel record, in which each section concentrates on specific region, starting from the central lands (China) and working its way outward in each direction to the outlying lands located beyond the four seas surrounding the central lands.

4. It was initially dedicated by Bo Yi and transmitted orally by his descendants. Then, it was edited by Zhao Gao-lang or Heng the Father and presented to the emperor of the Zhou Dynasty by Zao the Father.

5. In the early twentieth century, the concept of “mythology” from the West and modern academic theories and methods such as anthropology and mythology were introduced to China.
These brought a fundamental change in the status of ''the Classic''.

=Yuán Jìng 袁静 Kingfisher Craft点翠 =

==Introduction==
[[File:diancui.jpg|400px|thumb|left|jewelry made by kingfisher craft (https://img.zcool.cn/community/0167a25d58f1aca8012187f4f3229e.jpg@1280w_1l_2o_100sh.jpg)]]

Kingfisher craft is a traditional Chinese handmade craft. Artisans make beautify gold and silver headdresses using Kingfisher feathers, and decorated with gemstones and jewelry. It is a synthesis of many exquisite skills, which coalesces the wisdom and talent of groups of artisans over the generations and reflects the refined elegance of traditional Chinese craftsmanship. It is one of the exemplars of traditional Chinese handicraft. <③ P4）

==Meaning==
[[File:Cuiyu.jpg|200px|thumb|left|kingfisher feathers (http://n.sinaimg.cn/jiangsu/crawl/20170920/nZcY-fykymwm9838004.jpg)]]

“Cui,” which refers to a kind of green feather bird, here refers to the lime green feathers of birds. It combines Chinese metalwork and traditional feather artistic handicrafts. Artisans use precious and rare kingfisher feathers to paste on top of gold and silver products in an orderly manner, with coordinated color arrangements and contrasting hues. <①>

==History==
Kingfisher craft is an ancient and long-standing traditional craft in China, with a long history of thousands of years. The earliest record of Kingfisher craft is from Han Feizi, "There was a jewel merchant in the state of Chu who went to Zheng to sell his jewels. He made a box for the jewels out of magnolia wood, perfumed it with spices made of cinnamon and pepper, embellished it with beautiful jade, and attached it with feathers of kingfishers."
"( 《韩非子·外储说左上》：“楚人有卖其珠于郑者，为木兰之椟，熏以桂椒，缀以珠玉，饰以玫瑰，辑以羽翠。”) The "feathers of kingfishers" first recorded products of kingfisher craft.<③ P22>

It is generally believed that Kingfisher craft began in the Han Dynasty. In the Han Dynasty women's jewelry made greater development. The History of the Later Han Dynasty has recorded the jewelry worn by the Empress Dowager, "with jadeite of feathers, with white beads underneath, hanging gold hairpin." (《后汉书》曾记录过皇太后所佩戴的首饰：“以翡翠为毛羽，下有白珠，垂黄金镊。”)The "jadeite of feathers" is the jewelry decorated with kingfisher feathers. Cao Zhi's Ode the Goddess of the Luo River has written, “wearing gold jewelry and ornaments with kingfisher feathers, decorated with bright pearls." (三国曹植的《洛神赋》有：“戴金翠之首饰，缀明珠以耀躯。”)It recorded the jewelry made of kingfisher feathers and jewel together. <③ P24>

In the Tang Dynasty, women dressed elegantly and nobly, so precious pearls and kingfisher feathers were sought after by the noblewomen. (27) Lu Guimeng's Miscellaneous Ploys had a line that, "All the women living in palaces compete with each other to take a look in carriages, and more than three thousand women with Cui pearls admire the emperor." (陆龟蒙的《杂伎》写道：“六宫争近乘舆望，珠翠三千拥赭袍。”)The Cui pearls is the jewelry made of kingfisher feathers and pearls. <③ P28>

In the Song Dynasty, women's hair ornaments inherited from the Tang Dynasty, but in more various forms. Women wore jewelry made with Kingfisher craft on their hair buns, with the shape of flowers, birds and phoenixes. In one of Li Qingzhao's verses, it is recorded that "Wearing a hat with kingfisher feathers on its head and a snow willow whisked with beautiful gold thread, girls were neatly dressed up and beautiful." (李清照《永遇乐》中有记载：“铺翠冠儿，捻金雪柳，簇带争济楚。”) However, due to the gradual dominance of Neo-Confucianism of Cheng-Zhu, people's concept changed and began to advocate simplicity. The Song dynasty court also issued several edicts forbidding the use of kingfisher feathers in headgear. <③ P32>

The Ming Dynasty and the Qing Dynasty were the heyday of kingfisher craft. During the Ming Dynasty, the commodity economy gradually became more active. The style of women's jewelry became more gorgeous. Kingfisher feathers were colorful and therefore favored. Especially in the production of phoenix crowns, the "Nine Dragons and Nine Phoenixes Crown" of Empress XiaoDuan, unearthed in July 1958, is a classic, with its lively colorful kingfisher feathers and luxurious jewelry. The Ming Dynasty's tin flower headdress also created good conditions for the development of Kingfisher craft. This flower-like ornaments were perfect for the use of the Kingfisher craft. <③ P34/P35>
[[File:jiulongjiufengguan.jpg|200px|thumb|left|Nine Dragons and Nine Phoenixes Crown (http://5b0988e595225.cdn.sohucs.com/images/20171206/898057dc1e774546add03c8364853298.jpeg)]]

The Qing Dynasty saw the highest level of Kingfisher craft ever. The noblewomen of the Qing Dynasty paid more attention to the splendor of colors. Thus the glorious and never fading kingfisher feathers became an important decoration. Moreover, the emperor sounded the crown and costume system at that time. The consorts had to wear the imperial crown during the ceremony, and to wear the tin flower headdress on the festive day. Thus the demand for valuable jewelry promoted the use of the Kingfisher craft process on jewelry. <③ P38>Kingfisher craft gradually became a unique and specialized skill. Not only hairpins, head flowers, even fans and bonsai are also decorated with Kingfisher craft technology. Even the late Qing Dynasty set up a special institution responsible for the management and collection of kingfisher feathers. There were also special "kingfisher artisan" in charge of this craft. <③ P41>

In modern times, Kingfisher craft is in decline. Because women no longer use the traditional headdresses in these days, there was no market for them. With the enactment of various animal protection laws, the state does not allow the use of birds' feathers for decoration. Therefore, kingfisher craft gradually declines. However, in recent years, China has paid more attention to the protection of intangible cultural heritage, and kingfisher craft has attracted some attention again. There are already some designers who have designed modern kingfisher products with other alternative materials, and there are also people who use the craft to restore previous jewelry made of kingfisher feathers . <②>

==Characteristics==
The kingfisher craft is not alone. Instead, the jewelry of kingfisher feathers is usually made with gold and silver wire, pearls, gemstones. In order to show the most brilliant colors of the kingfisher's feathers, the artisans who make them must carefully design the shape of the headpiece. Almost every part of the kingfisher process has a different color, depending on the relative position of the observer and the feathers, the light and background color, and other factors. Experiments have shown that when the observer faces the light source, the feathers take on darker colors, such as indigo and blue. However, if the light source is at the back of the observer, the feathers will appear lighter blue-green and green. In order to achieve the brightest effect after wearing, the designer needs to consider the flat pattern of dotted green and design the angle between the models so that they match and illuminate each other. <①>

==Classification==
(1) Hard kingfisher feathers
Hard kingfisher feathers refers to the feathers on the wings and tail, which are more commonly used because they are at a larger area on the wings. Lt is also called eight large strips because there are almost eight feathers available on each kingfisher wing. Although there are eight large feathers but the usable part is very little. Hard kingfisher feathers is characterized by obvious texture, strong luster, and coarser texture. Hard kingfisher feathers is mostly cut and pasted because the hardness of the wing part of hard kingfisher feathers is suitable for cutting into the shape of a piece and pointing to the bottom of the tire. Moreover, hard kingfisher feathers is generally very flat and flaky.

(2) Soft kingfisher feathers
Soft kingfisher feathers refers to the brightest down on the neck and back of the kingfisher. The feather is only a little bit available on the tip, so it will be more expensive, and the production is almost point by point, which is a test of effort. The texture of soft kingfisher feathers is more delicate. However, it does not mean that the grade of jewelry made by soft kingfisher feathers is higher than that by hard kingfisher feathers, but it depends on the overall quality and difficulty of the whole process. The soft kingfisher feathers is made by melting a special glue with warm water and applying it to the back of the kingfisher feathers. This technique is called fixing the glue, and then proceeding with the dots after the glue is all dry. Soft kingfisher feathers are soft and small, so it is mostly used a little by a little. Generally, soft kingfisher feathers is more expensive and has a more delicate texture. <①>
==Making Process==
Generally speaking, the process includes five steps. First, draw the design. The craftsman has to sketch out the piece first, including the colors and many details. Second, make the base. The base has two kinds, including paper and metal ones. The base must be well polished so that kingfisher feathers can be stuck. Third, collect Kingfisher feathers. It is done by hand, which requires skill that does not damage the color of the feathers themselves. Forth, screen the feathers. It means screening out the required feathers. Fifth, paste the feathers. Feathers need to be patiently and meticulously arranged in an orderly manner little by little in the base. It requires artisans not only to take into account the matching of color shades, but also to consider the color of reflected light. <③ P76-82>
==References==
①Wang Hefei 王翮飞《中国珠宝首饰工艺最高水平——点翠》[The highest Level of Chinese Jewelry Craftsmanship--Kingfisher Craft]
https://wap.cnki.net/touch/web/Journal/Article/TGTG201909004.html

②Hu Jie 胡洁《民间工艺——点翠的前世今生》 [Folk Craft -- Kingfisher Craft's History]
https://wap.cnki.net/touch/web/Journal/Article/FJCA202002081.html

③Li Rongsen 李荣森《传统戏曲头饰点翠技艺的传承与发展》 [Inheritance and Development of Traditional Opera Headdress Embellishment Techniques--Kingfisher Craft]

④Han Feizi 韩非子《韩非子》

⑤Fan Ye 范晔《后汉书》

⑥Cao Zhi 曹植《洛神赋》

⑦Lu Guimeng 陆龟蒙《杂伎》

⑧Li Qingzhao 李清照《永遇乐》

==Expressions==
Kingfisher craft 点翠工艺

Empress XiaoDuan 孝端皇后

Han Feizi 韩非子

The History of the Late Han Dynasty 《后汉书》

Ode to the Goddess of the Luo River《洛神赋》

Miscellaneous Ploys 《杂伎》

Information《永遇乐》

hard kingfisher feathers 硬翠

soft kingfisher feathers 软翠

base 首饰胎底

tin flower headdress 钿花

Neo-Confucianism of Cheng-Zhu 程朱理学

Nine Dragons and Nine Phoenixes Crown 九龙九凤冠

==Questions==
1.What is the earliest known reference to kingfisher craft?

2.When did kingfisher craft origin?

3.In what dynasty did the governor issue edicts forbidding the use of kingfisher feather in headgear?

4.When did kingfisher craft reach its peak?

5.What are the two kinds of kingfisher feathers?

6.Is the grade of jewery made by soft kingfisher feathers higher than that by hard kingfisher feathers?

7.How many steps are involved in making process?
==Answers==
1.Han Feizi

2.in the Tang Dynasty

3.the Song Dynasty

4.in the Qing Dynasty

5.They are hard and soft kingfisher feathers.

6.No, It depends on the overall quality and difficulty of the whole process.

7.five

Corrector--[[User:Zhao Ke|Zhao Ke]] ([[User talk:Zhao Ke|talk]]) 09:14, 15 June 2021 (UTC)

=Zhào Kē 赵轲 Traditional Chinese Funeral Culture=
==A. Origin and Development==
[[File:zhoukoudian.jpg|200px|thumb|left|Excavation at Beijing Zhoukoudian Cavemen Sites (http://www.yxhenan.com/info/news/waisheng_1789_16738.html)]]
[[File:zhg.jpg|200px|thumb|right|Chinese Funeral (https://m.sohu.com/a/239501313_476716)]]
It is generally believed that the idea of immortality of the soul came into being before the middle Paleolithic Age, which is the essential basis of funeral rites. The earliest funeral rites in China originated in the late Paleolithic Age. Unearthed in 1933 Beijing Zhoukoudian Cavemen Sites found a burial chamber under the ruins, which pointed out that eighteen thousand years ago paleolithic cavemen followed funeral procedures, in which the bones of death bodies were surrounded with hematite powders, animal teeth used as tools, and flint stone and so on (Chen/Fan 2013:1).

After entering the feudal society, Chinese funeral rites developed to be complicated, institutionalized and hierarchical, and finally became a set of mature funeral systems. In the Zhou Dynasty, China's funeral rites had already been complete. The Rites of Zhou, The Book of Rites and other books made detailed stipulations on funeral rites. At this stage, the funeral rites were mainly influenced by the patriarchy and the Confucian concept of filial piety (Chen/Fan 2013:2).

This situation continued until the founding of New China. After this, the funeral culture gradually simplified. The reasons are complex. To name a few, that referred to three aspects especially: First, the original feudal class order was broken; Second, funeral procedures were greatly simplified; Third, the concept of immortality of the soul gradually disappeared, and the ritual of worshipping ghosts and gods was also greatly simplified (Chen/Fan 2013:2).

==B. Traditional Process==
In traditional Chinese funerals, one can leave at ease only after a complete funeral process, which includes several steps (Chen, etc. 2008:43).

[[File:zh.jpg|200px|thumb|left|Baosang (announce sb.'s death) (https://m.sohu.com/a/332995941_100186178/)]]
'''(1) A public announcement of the death with weeping and other sad expressions.'''

This is also called Baosang in Chinese, which is especially done by the female relatives, who announce the death to their neighbors with a loud voice and a predetermined form of crying. Sometimes this is not their voluntary action, but may be required by the will of the death. The official announcement of the death also includes hanging white curtains or lanterns outside the home. In some areas, this is optional, but crying is a necessary act (Hua, 2003:10).

'''(2) Changing clothes.'''
[[File:zsh.jpg|200px|thumb|right|Sangfu (mourning apparel) (https://kuaibao.qq.com/s/20191227A0IHSQ00?refer=spider)]]
Relatives of the dead wear white clothes, shoes and headscarves. Different relatives have different styles of clothing (different colors, etc.), which indicates the relationship between the deceased and the wearers. Of course, there are differences in color symbols and costume combinations, but white is a very clear symbol of mourning clothing, which is a basic feature of Chinese funeral ceremonies (Hua, 2003:10).

'''(3) Bathing the dead.'''

After the bath, the final dressing of the deceased is also performed, which is considered to be an important part of the final death (Shouzhongzhengqin\Die in one’s bed). The water used is also particular, often being "water obtained by praying to the gods" (actually bought back with a symbolic amount of money), called “Maishui” (Watson, 1982:1-2).

[[File:zsfh.jpg|200px|thumb|left|Shaozhi (burning paper) (http://nimg.ws.126.net/?url=http%3A%2F%2Fdingyue.ws.126.net%2F2021%2F0508%2Fd6442441j00qsr6ot000vc000go008tc.jpg&thumbnail=650x2147483647&quality=80&type=jpg)]]
'''(4) Delivering food, money, etc. to the world of the dead.'''

By burning paper objects (houses, furniture, etc.), people bring essential goods to the dead. Food, usually pork, rice, etc., is served in the form of offering (Hua, 2003:11).

'''(5) Setting the tablet.'''
[[File:zsash.jpg|200px|thumb|right|Paiwei (tablet) (http://www.t-chs.com/pche0/542793597396.html)]]
It is generally believed that dead people need a written tablet to settle their souls. These tablets are often placed in ancestral temples. Some unmarried women are not considered family members, so their tablets are usually placed in temples (Hua, 2003:11)

'''(6) Ritual use of money and hiring of professional staff.'''

Those personnel are employed to perform ceremonial performances that are not possible for the general public to perform due to the complexity of these performances. Money exchange permeates funeral rites in China in different forms (Hua, 2003:12).

[[File:zssssssh.jpg|200px|thumb|left|Chanting scriptures (http://www.dashangu.com/postimg_19508114.html)]]
'''(7) With music to accompany the dead, soothe the soul.'''

The sharp sound of flutes and suona horns (or trumpets), gongs and drums plays an important role, especially when the dead body needs to be moved (Hua, 2003:12).

'''(8) Going into the coffin.'''

This is an important feature of traditional Chinese funeral ceremonies, and wooden coffins have been common in China since the Neolithic Age. Ritual hammering of nails is central to the process, often carried out by the head of the deceased's surviving family (Wang, 2019:2; Hua, 2003:12-13).

[[File:zssssawefssh.jpg|200px|thumb|right|Buried (http://baijiahao.baidu.com/s?id=1672907444430681061&wfr=spider&for=pc)]]
'''(9) Buried.'''

After the coffin is sealed, it can be sent away for burial. It is not an act to be done right away. Well-established families sometimes keep coffins in their homes as a sign of respect for the deceased. But eventually the coffins have to be buried (Hua, 2003:13).

There are all kinds of traditional rites for funeral in China, which means that different nations and people living in different areas may have various funeral rites. But after all, the nine points mentioned above may be the most important part in the process of Chinese funeral (Meng, 2020:4-5; Zhao, 2020:2-4; Ding/Zhao, 1989:505).

==C. Some Main Forms==
'''1.Burial in Earth'''

Land was an extremely important condition for people's survival, production and life, as well as the growth of all things, so it was easy to form the worship of land. In the past, people believed that acts such as farming offended the god, so they would sacrifice themselves in blood to beg for forgiveness. Namely, it was burying dead bodies into earth. Under the influence of this thought, the Chinese people gradually formed the idea of "being buried to rest", and the burial in earth became the most common burial style of the Han people (Jin 1996:2).

'''2. Cremation'''

Cremation referred to the phenomenon of burning dead bodies to bones, and then burying those bones in tombs in the past. Some burned the dead outside the tomb and then buried the bones or ashes inside the tomb, while others burned the dead and even burial utensils and burial goods inside the tomb chamber. Nowadays, such a form has been used in a more sanitary way in funeral parlors (Gao\Song 2018:1-2).

[[File:zsssssasdsh.jpg|200px|thumb|left|Tianzangtai (Sky Burial Platform) (http://www.mafengwo.cn/g/i/7041035.html)]]
'''3. Sky Burial'''

In Tibetan residential areas, sky burial is the mainstream funeral custom. It is believed that people have afterlife and the soul is immortal, and that the human shell left behind after death means that it is only a skin and worthless. It is better to "give" this shell to hungry vultures to save other lives of other creatures that will be eaten by the vultures (Yang 2015:4). In the Tibetan language, celestial burial is called "Bird-giving"(Shiniao). It is a burial custom full of magical colors and allure, and it is also a unique burial custom on the Qinghai-Tibet Plateau. It is mainly influenced by the doctrines of Tibetan Buddhism such as "the six ways of reincarnation" and "karma", and especially directly influenced by the concepts of "mercy", "alms" and "reincarnation" in Tibetan Buddhism, such as giving up the life to feed tigers, cutting flesh to feed eagles and so on (Zhang 2017:1).

[[File:zssdssdsh.jpg|200px|thumb|right|Water Burial (http://blog.sina.com.cn/s/blog_9f36359f0102v72t.html)]]
'''4. Water Burial'''

The water burial ceremony of the Tibetan nationality can be divided into two categories: the water burial of whole bodies and the water burial of separated bodies. And the containers carrying dead bodies can be roughly divided into bamboo rafts, wooden coffins, wooden boxes, bamboo baskets and sink stones. The ritual process of the whole body burial is basically that the relatives of the deceased wrap the body in cloth and then put the wrapped body into a container. Bamboo baskets are more commonly used as the container. People wrap ropes or wooden strips around the basket or insert them into the basket and then carry the container to a fixed place for water burial. At the riverside, monks would chant sutras for the dead. When the sutras were finished, families will begin to dispose of the dead body. During the process, they will remove the white cloth that they have wrapped before, and then remove the ropes or wooden strips along with it, and tie large stones to the body so that it can sink under the water and never floats up (Li 2015:1).

==Terms==
Paleolithic Age 旧石器时代

Neolithic Age 新石器时代

Beijing Zhoukoudian cavemen sites 周口店北京人遗址

Die in one’s bed 寿终正寝

The Rites of Zhou 周礼

The Book of Rites 礼记

Immortality of the soul 灵魂不灭

Maishui 买水

Being buried to rest 入土为安

Burial in Earth 土葬

Cremation 火葬

Sky Burial \ Celestial burial 天葬

Water Burial 水葬

Bird-giving 施鸟

Water burial of whole bodies 整尸水葬

Water burial of separated bodies 分尸水葬

==Questions==
1.When did the earliest funeral rites originate?

2.What made detailed stipulations on funeral rites?

3.What are the reasons that funeral culture gradually simplified after the founding of New China?

4.What is the first step of traditional funeral process?

5.What is the last step of traditional funeral process?

6.Could you list some typical styles of traditional Chinese funeral?

7.In Tibetan language, what is celestial burial called as？

8.Which religions influences Chinese funeral most profoundly?

==Answers==
1.The earliest funeral rites in China originated in the late Paleolithic Age.

2.The Rites of Zhou, The Book of Rites and other books.

3.First, the original class order was broken; Second, funeral procedures were greatly simplified; Third, the concept of immortality of the soul gradually disappeared, and the ritual of worshipping ghosts and gods was also greatly simplified.

4.A public announcement of death with weeping and other sad expressions.

5.Buried.

6.Burial in Earth, Cremation, Sky Burial and Water Burial.

7."Bird-giving"(Shiniao).

8.Buddhism.

==References==
[1] Chen Peng, Fan Shaoxing. 陈鹏,范劭兴. (2013). 中国传统丧葬礼仪的功能变迁 [Function Changes of Chinese Traditional Funeral Rites]. ''劳动保障世界 (理论版)''. [World of Labor Security (Theory Edition)]. (07) 171-172；

[2] Chen Shujun, Chen Huawen 陈淑君, 陈华文. (2008) ''民间丧葬习俗'' [Folk Funeral Customs]；

[3] Ding Shiliang, Zhao Fang 丁世良，赵放. (1989). ''中国地方志民俗资料汇编·东北卷'' [Compilation of Chinese Local Chorography and Folklore Data. Northeast Volume];

[4] Deng Zhuoming, Deng Li 邓卓明, 邓力. (1992). ''中国葬俗'' [The Chinese Funeral Customs]；

[5] Gao Xiangping, Song Xueming 郜向平, 宋雪明. (2018). 商文化中的火葬与焚烧墓室现象 [Cremation and Burning of Grave Chamber in Shang Culture]. ''江汉考古''[Jianghan Archaeology]. (05):113-117;

[6] Hua Chen 华琛. (2003). 中国丧葬仪式的结构——基本形态、仪式次序、动作的首要性. [The Structure of Chinese Funeral Ritual--Basic Form, Ceremonial Order and Primacy of Action]. ''历史人类学学刊'' [Journal of Historical Anthropology] (02) 98-114；

[7] Jin Fenglin 靳凤林. (1996). 死亡与中国的丧葬文化 [Death and Funeral Culture in China]. ''北方论坛'' [The Northern Forum] 05 (139) 22-27 ;

[8] Meng Xuehua 孟学华. (2020). 贵州毛南族丧葬仪式及其文化内涵 [Funeral Ritual and Cultural Connotation of Maonan Ethnic Group in Guizhou]. ''黔南民族师范学院学报''. [Journal of Qiannan Normal College for Nationalities]. (06) 29-35;

[9] Li Maojia 李毛加. (2015). 浅谈藏族水葬仪式 [On Water Burial Ceremony of Tibetan Nationality]. ''商'' [Shang]. (52) 119.

[10] Watson, J. L. (1982). Of Flesh and Bones: The Management of Death Pollution in Cantonese Society. ''Journal of Guangxi University for Nationalities(Philosoph)''. (06) 161-162；

[11] Wang Zhijun 王治军. (2019). 中国特色的悲伤抚慰——传统丧葬礼俗视角[Sorrow Comfort with Chinese Characteristics--Perspective of Traditional Funeral Ritual]. ''中国医学人文''[Chinese Medical Humanities]. 5(11) 13-17;

[12] Yang Kuan 杨宽. (1985). ''中国古代陵寝制度历史研究'' [Study on the History of Chinese Ancient Mausoleum System];

[13] Yang Qun 杨群. (2015). 藏族丧葬习俗的文化地域特征探究[Study on the Cultural Regional Characteristics of Tibetan Funeral Customs].''边疆经济与文化''[Frontier Economy and Culture]. (12) 69-71;

[14] Zhao Shijian， Liao Liming 赵士见, 廖利明. (2020). 近代鄂伦春族丧葬习俗变迁研究 [The Changes of Funeral Customs of the Oroqen People in Modern Times]. ''地域文化研究'' [Research on Regional Culture]. (06) 97-104+149;

[15] Zhang Keji 张可吉. (2017). 略论甘南藏区天葬习俗[On the Custom of Sky Burial in Gannan Tibetan Area]. ''中国民族博览''[Chinese Nationalities Expo]. (07) 7-8;

[16] Zheng Xiaojiang 郑小江. (1995). ''中国死亡文化大观'' [The Grand View of Chinese Death Culture]；

[17] Zhou Suping 周苏平. (2004). ''中国古代丧葬习俗'' [Funeral Customs in Ancient China].

20210601 culture

2021-06-15T10:22:38Z

Yao Yang: /* Yāo Yáng 么阳 Chinese Traditional Cultivation Culture */

20210601 culture5

20210324 culture

2021-06-14T16:10:22Z

Yao Yang: /* Wú Xīnxīn 吴欣欣 */

Homework 4 from Mar 24 for Mar 31, 2021

Quicklinks: [[Foundations_of_Chinese_Cultures_2021|Course Homepage]]. [[Joint_translation_terms|Joint translation terms]] Homework [[20210303_culture|1, Mar 3 Chapters 1-4]], [[20210310_culture|2, Mar 10 Chapters 6-7]], [[20210317_culture|3, Mar 17 Chapters 11-13]], [[20210324_culture|4, Mar 24 Chapters 15-17]], [[20210331_culture|5, Mar 31 Chapters 4-7]], [[20210407_culture|6, Apr 7 Chapters 8-10]], [[20210414_culture|7, Apr 14 Chapters 13-15]] , [[20210421_culture|8, Apr 21 Chapters 17-19]]etc.

'''《红楼梦》程甲本'''

Please find the most beautiful translations of names and jointly agree to use them. Please also list common terms and joint translation here:
*Jia Baoyu = Precious Jade
*Jia Yucun = Rain Village
*Lin Daiyu = Mascara Jade
*Zhen Shiyin = Hide-the-facts
*...(everybody please add more here)

=Bào Qìnwén 鲍沁雯=
第十六回贾元春才选凤藻宫秦鲸卿夭逝黄泉路

且说秦钟宝玉二人跟着凤姐自铁槛寺照应一番，坐车进城，到家见过贾母王夫人等，回到自己房中，一夜无话。至次日，宝玉见收拾了外书房，约定了与秦钟读夜书。偏生那秦钟秉赋最弱，因在郊外受了些风霜，又与智能儿偷期缱绻，未免失于调养，回来时便咳嗽伤风，懒怠进饮食，大有不胜之态，只在家中调养，不能上学，宝玉便扫了兴，然亦无法，只得候他病痊再议了。

那凤姐却已得了云光的回信，俱已妥协，老尼达知张家，果然那守备忍气吞声，受了前聘之物。谁知爱势贪财之父母，却养了一个知义多情的女儿，闻得退了前夫，另许李门，他便一条汗巾悄悄的寻了个自尽。那守备之子闻知金哥自缢，他也是个情种，遂投河而死。可怜张李二家没趣，真是“人财两空”。这里凤姐却安享了三千两，王夫人连一点消息也不知道。自此凤姐胆识愈壮，以后所作所为，诸如此类，不可胜数。

Chapter 6

Spring Merchant was selected as Imperial Consort in Phoenix Palace Qin Bell Dying Before His Time Sets Off for the Nether Regions

Before long Gem Merchant's outer study was ready. He had agreed with Qin Bell to start evening lessons together; but Qin Bell had a weak constitution, and a cold he had caught in the country following his secret affair with Intellect had upset him; thus on his return to town he developed a cough and lost his appetite completely. Too weak to go out, he had to rest at home. Although Jia Gem was very disappointed, he could do nothing but wait for his friend's recovery. Meanwhile, Sunny Feng had received Cloudlight's reply, and the abbess had informed the Zhangs that their problem was solved. So the inspector had to swallow his anger and take back the betrothal gifts. But though Zhang and his wife were snobbish and mercenary, they had a principled and sentimental daughter. When Gold Ge learned that her engagement had been broken she found a rope and quietly hanged herself; and the inspector's son was so much in love that he drowned himself when he heard of her suicide, showing that he was worthy of his good fiancée. Thus the Zhang and Li families were unlucky enough to lose both girl and money. Only Sunny Feng was the gainer by three thousand taels, quite unknown to Lady Wang and the rest of the household. This emboldened her from that time on to undertake countless similar transactions, but we need not recount these here.

Chapter 6

Spring Merchant was selected as Imperial Consort in Phoenix Palace Qin Bell Dying Before His Time Sets Off for the Nether Regions

Before long Gem Merchant's outer study was ready. He had agreed with Qin Bell to start evening lessons together; but Qin Bell had a weak constitution, and a cold he had caught in the country following his secret affair with Intellect had upset him; thus on his return to town he developed a cough and lost his appetite completely. Too weak to go out, he had to rest at home. Although Jia Gem was very disappointed, he could do nothing but wait for his friend's recovery. Meanwhile, Sunny Feng had received Cloudlight's reply, and the abbess had informed the Zhangs that their problem was solved. So the inspector had to swallow his anger and take back the betrothal gifts. But though Zhang and his wife were snobbish and mercenary, they had a principled and sentimental daughter. When Gold learned that her engagement had been broken， she found a rope and quietly hanged herself; and the inspector's son was so much in love with her that he drowned himself when he heard of her suicide, showing that he was worthy of his good fiancée. Thus the Zhang and Li families were unlucky enough to lose both the girl and the money. Only Sunny Feng was the gainer by three thousand taels, quite unknown to Lady Wang and the rest of the household. This emboldened her from that time on to undertake countless similar transactions, but we need not to recount these here.--[[User:Chen Keru|Chen Keru]] ([[User talk:Chen Keru|talk]]) 09:40, 1 April 2021 (UTC)

=Chén Kērǔ 陈柯汝=
一日正是贾政的生辰，宁荣二处人丁都齐集庆贺，热闹非常，忽有门吏报
道：“有六宫都太监夏老爷特来降旨。”唬的贾赦贾政一干人不知何事，忙止了
戏文，撤去酒席，摆香案，启中门跪接。早见都太监夏秉忠乘马而至，又有许多
跟从的内监。那夏太监也不曾负诏捧敕，直至正厅下马，满面笑容，走至厅上，
南面而立，口内说：“奉特旨：立刻宣贾政入朝，在临敬殿陛见。”说毕，也不吃茶，便乘马去了。

贾政等也猜不出是何兆头，只得即忙更衣入朝。贾母等合家人心俱惶惶
不定，不住的使人飞马来往报信。有两个时辰，忽见赖大等三四个管家喘吁吁
跑进仪门报喜，又说“奉老爷命，速请老太太率领太太等进宫谢恩”等语。

This day was Master Jia’s birthday. People from Ling Mansion as well as Rong Mansion got together to celebrate it, and it was really lively. Suddenly, a janitor came and said: “the excellency Xia,Chief Eunuch of the Six Palaces, has come with a Decree from the emperor.” This startled Master Jia and Jia She. They stopped the performance and had the feast cleared away. A table was set out with incense. At the central gate they knelt down to receive the decree. Soon Xia Shouzhong the Chief Eunuch arrived on horseback, followed by considerable number of eunuchs.Without any decrees, Xia Shouzhong did not get off the horse until at the main hall. Smiling, he entered the hall, facing the south direction and said; “ by special order of the emperor, Jia Zheng is to present himself at once for an audience in the Hall of Respectful Approach.” Then, he rode his horse without tea.

Master Jia could not guess what did this mean, the only thing he could do was to put on his formal cloth and to go the the palace.
The whole family were nervous about this. The Lady Dowager sent one mounted messenger after another in search of news.but it was four hours before Lai Da and a few other stewards came panting through the inner gate, crying:“Good news! His Lordship asks the old lady to go at once to the Palace with the other ladies to thank His Majesty.”

This day was Master Jia’s birthday. People from Ling Mansion as well as Rong Mansion got together to celebrate it, and it was really lively. Suddenly, a janitor came and said: “The excellency Xia,Chief Eunuch of the Six Palaces, has come with a Decree from the emperor.” This startled Master Jia and Jia She. They stopped the performance and had the feast cleared away, with a table set out with incense. At the central gate they knelt down to receive the decree. Soon Xia Bingzhong the Chief Eunuch arrived on horseback, followed by considerable numerous eunuchs.Without any decrees, Xia Bingzhong did not get off the horse until at the main hall. Smiling, he entered the hall, facing the south direction and said: “ By special order of the emperor, Jia Zheng is to present himself at once for an audience in the Hall of Respectful Approach.” Then, he rode his horse leaving here without drinking tea.

Master Jia could not guess what this mean, and the only thing he could do was to put on his formal cloth and go the the palace. The whole family were nervous about this and Granny Merchant even sent one mounted messenger after another in search of news. But it was four hours before Lai Da and a few other stewards came panting through the inner gate, crying:“Good news! His Lordship asks the old lady to go to the Palace immediately with the other ladies to thank His Majesty.”--[[User:Dai Muyu|Dai Muyu]] ([[User talk:Dai Muyu|talk]]) 16:20, 31 March 2021 (UTC)

This day was Master Merchant’s birthday. People from Ling Mansion as well as Honor Mansion got together to celebrate it, and it was really lively. Suddenly, a janitor came and said: “the excellency Summer,Chief Eunuch of the Six Palaces, has come with a Decree from the emperor.” This startled Master Merchant and Pardon Merchant. They stopped the performance and had the feast cleared away. A table was set out with incense. At the central gate they knelt down to receive the decree. Soon Loyalty-Guard Summer, the Chief Eunuch arrived on horseback, followed by considerable number of eunuchs.Without any decrees, Loyalty-Guard Summer did not get off the horse until at the main hall. Smiling, he entered the hall, facing the south direction and said; “ by special order of the emperor, Master Merchant is to present himself at once for an audience in the Hall of Respectful Approach.” Then, he rode his horse without tea.

Master Merchant could not guess what did this mean, the only thing he could do was to put on his formal cloth and to go the the palace.
The whole family were nervous about this. The Lady Dowager sent one mounted messenger after another in search of news.but it was four hours before Best Deadbeat and a few other stewards came panting through the inner gate, crying:“Good news! His Lordship asks the old lady to go at once to the Palace with the other ladies to thank His Majesty.”--[[User:Chen Keru|Chen Keru]] ([[User talk:Chen Keru|talk]]) 08:23, 4 June 2021 (UTC)

=Dài Mùyǔ 戴沐雨=
那时贾母心神不定，在大堂廊下伫候，邢王二夫人、尤氏、李纨、凤姐、迎春姊妹以及薛姨妈等，皆聚在一处打听信息。贾母又唤进赖大来细问端的，赖大
禀道：“小的们只在临庄门外伺候，里头的信息一概不知。后来夏太监出来道
喜，说咱们家的大小姐晋封为凤藻宫尚书，加封贤德妃。后来老爷出来亦如此
吩咐小的。如今老爷又往东宫去了，速请老太太们去谢恩。”贾母等听了方心
安，一时皆喜见于面，于是都按品大妆起来。贾母率领邢王二夫人并尤氏，一共
四乘大轿，鱼贯入朝。贾赦贾珍亦换了朝服，带领贾蔷贾蓉，奉侍贾母前往。

于是宁荣两处上下内外人等，莫不欣喜，独有宝玉置若罔闻。你道什么缘
故？原来近日水月庵的智能私逃入城来找秦钟，不意被秦业知觉，将智能逐去，
将秦钟打了一顿，自己气的老病发了，三五日光景，呜呼哀哉了。

At the time, Granny Merchant was waiting in the hall, feeling uneasy; Madam Xing and Wang, Lady You, Li Wan, Sister Phoenix, Welcome-Spring and her sisters and Untie Xue were all gathering to discuss about the message. Granny Jia inquired You Da for the details of the cause, and You Da only said: “We all just served outside the door of the Arrival-Village and heard nothing about the talk. Later Eunuch Xia congratulated us, saying that the eldest miss in our mansion was elevated to the minister of the Phoenix-Coral Palace, and then the imperial concubine known for her virtuous manner. The master came out with the same words. At present the master has gone to Eastern Palace and asked me to invite ladies all to thanks for the grace of the emperor.” Hearing that, Granny Jia calmed down, with the happiness appearing on her face, and began to make up following the ranks she belongs to. In four sedan chairs, Granny Jia commanded Mrs. Wang and Xing and Madam You arriving in the palace. Jia She and Jia Zhen also put on the court dress and led Jia Qiang and Jia Rong to wait upon Granny Jia.

The joy quickly spread to every corner of the Ning and Rong Mansion, and only Precious Jade seemed to have no sense of such happiness. How do you explain it? The reason was following: recently Zhi Neng, escaping from Sun Moon and Water Nunnery, has come to the city to look for Qin Zhong. Accidentally, Qin Ye knew about that and drove Zhi Neng away, criticizing Qin Zhong by hitting him. Due to this stimulation, Qin Ye suffered a relapse and passed away in a few days.--[[User:Dai Muyu|Dai Muyu]] ([[User talk:Dai Muyu|talk]]) 03:54, 28 March 2021 (UTC)

At the time, Granny Jia was waiting in the hall, feeling uneasy; Madam Xing and Wang, Lady You, Li Wan, Sister Phoenix, Welcome-Spring and her sisters and Untie Xue were all gathering to discuss about the message. Granny Jia inquired You Da for the details of the cause, and You Da only said: “We all just served outside the door of the Arrival-Village and heard nothing about the talk. Later Eunuch Xia congratulated us, saying that the eldest miss in our mansion was elevated to the minister of the Phoenix-Coral Palace, and then the imperial concubine known for her virtuous manner. The master came out with the same words. At present the master has gone to Eastern Palace and asked me to invite ladies all to thanks for the grace of the emperor.” Hearing that, Granny Jia calmed down, with the happiness appearing on her face, and began to make up following the ranks she belongs to. In four sedan chairs, Granny Jia commanded Mrs. Wang and Xing and Madam You arriving in the palace. Jia She and Jia Zhen also put on the court dress and led Jia Qiang and Jia Rong to wait upon Granny Jia.

The joy quickly spread to every corner of the Ning and Rong Mansion, and only Precious Jade seemed to have no sense of such happiness. How do you explain it? The reason was following: recently Zhi Neng, escaping from Sun Moon and Water Nunnery, has come to the city to look for Qin Zhong. Accidentally, Qin Ye knew about that and drove Zhi Neng away, criticizing Qin Zhong by hitting him. Due to this stimulation, Qin Ye suffered a relapse and passed away in a few days.--[[User:Deng Dan1|Deng Dan1]] ([[User talk:Deng Dan1|talk]]) 23:49, 30 March 2021 (UTC)

At the time, Grandma Merchant was waiting in the hall, feeling uneasy; Lady City and Lady King, Madam Outstanding, Silk Plum, Sister Phoenix, Spring Pleasure Merchant and her sisters and Aunt Marshgrass were all gathering to discuss about the message. Grandma Merchant inquired You Da for the details of the cause, and You Da only said, “We all just served outside the door of the Arrival-Village and heard nothing about the talk. Later Eunuch Xia congratulated us, saying that the eldest miss in our mansion was elevated to the minister of the Phoenix-Coral Palace, and then the imperial concubine known for her virtuous manner. The master came out with the same words. At present the master has gone to Eastern Palace and asked me to invite ladies all to thanks for the grace of the emperor.” Hearing that, Grandma Merchant calmed down, with the happiness appearing on her face, and began to make up following the ranks she belongs to. In four sedan chairs, Grandma Merchant commanded Lady King, Lady City and Madam Outstanding arriving in the palace. Pardon Merchant and Treasure Merchant also put on the court dress and led Rose Merchant and Prosperity Merchant to wait upon Grandma Merchant.

The joy quickly spread to every corner of the Ning and Rong Mansion, and only Precious Jade seemed to have no sense of such happiness. How do you explain it? The reason was following: recently Wise-ability, escaping from Sun Moon and Water Nunnery, has come to the city to look for Qin Zhong. Accidentally, Qin Ye knew about that and drove Wise-ability away, criticizing Qin Zhong by hitting him. Due to this stimulation, Qin Ye suffered a relapse and passed away in a few days.--[[User:Deng Dan1|Deng Dan1]] ([[User talk:Deng Dan1|talk]]) 06:45, 9 June 2021 (UTC)

At the time, Grandma Merchant was waiting in the hall, feeling uneasy; Lady City and Lady King, Madam Outstanding, Silk Plum, Sister Phoenix, Spring Pleasure Merchant and her sisters and Aunt Marshgrass were all gathering to discuss about the message. Grandma Merchant inquired Lai Da for the details of the cause, and Lai Da only said: "We all just served outside the door of the Arrival-Village and heard nothing about the talk. Later Eunuch Xia congratulated us, saying that the eldest miss in our mansion was elevated to the minister of the Phoenix-Coral Palace, and then the imperial concubine known for her virtuous manner. The master came out with the same words. At present the master has gone to Eastern Palace and asked me to invite ladies all to thanks for the grace of the emperor." Hearing that, Grandma Merchant calmed down, with the happiness appearing on her face, and began to make up following the ranks she belongs to. In four sedan chairs, Grandma Merchant commanded Lady King, Lady City and Madam Outstanding arriving in the palace. Pardon Merchant and Treasure Merchant also put on the court dress and led Rose Merchant and Prosperity Merchant to wait upon Grandma Merchant.

The joy quickly spread to every corner of the Ning and Rong Mansion, and only Precious Jade seemed to have no sense of such happiness. How do you explain it? The reason was following: recently Wise-ability, escaping from Sun Moon and Water Nunnery, has come to the city to look for Qin Zhong. Accidentally, Qin Ye knew about that and drove Wise-ability away, criticizing Qin Zhong by hitting him. Due to this stimulation, Qin Ye suffered a relapse and passed away in a few days.--[[User:Dai Muyu|Dai Muyu]] ([[User talk:Dai Muyu|talk]]) 08:28, 8 June 2021 (UTC)

=Dèng Dān 邓丹=
秦钟本自怯弱，又带病未痊，受了笤杖，今见老父气死，此时悔痛无及，又添了许多病症。因此，宝玉心中怅怅不乐。虽有元春晋封之事，那解得他愁闷？贾母等如何谢恩，如何回家，亲友如何来庆贺，宁荣两府近日如何热闹，众人如何得意，独他一个皆视有如无，毫不介意。因此众人嘲他越发呆了。

且喜贾琏与黛玉回来，先遣人来报信，明日就可到家了，宝玉听了，方略有
些喜意。细问原由，方知贾雨村亦进京引见，皆由王子腾累上荐本，此来候补京
缺，与贾琏是同宗弟兄，又与黛玉有师徒之谊，故同路作伴而来。林如海已葬入
祖茔了，诸事停妥。贾琏此番进京，若按站而走，本该出月到家，因闻元春喜信，
遂昼夜兼程而进，一路俱各平安。宝玉只问了黛玉“平安”二字，余者也就不在
意了。

Gardener Wilde was timid in nature and has not recovered from his illness when he received this beating. The death of his father immersed himself with such regret that his condition was even worse. Because of this, Baoyu felt so gloomy that the honor conferred on Yuanchun failed to cheer him up. Jiayu remained indifferent, separating himself from congratulations of relatives, excitement in Jia Fu and triumph of others. His behavior was ridiculed by everyone.
Luckily, a messenger came with the news that Jia Lian and Daiyu would arrive home tomorrow. Hearing this, Baoyu showed a little joy. He asked the man and knew that Jia Yucun also came to the capital to pay homage. For thanks to Wang Ziteng’s recommendations he had been summoned to wait for a metropolitan appointment; and being a distant cousin of Jia Lian’s and Daiyu’s former tutor, he wad travelling with them. Lin Ruhai has been buried in the ancestral graveyard, his obsequies completed, Jia Lian started to come to the capital. Normally, they would arrive home in the beginning of the month; however, Yuanchun’s good news made them hurry back home. The journey was safe and smooth.

Qin Zhong was timid in nature and has not recovered from his illness when he received this beating. The death of his father immersed himself with such regret that his condition was even worse. Because of this, Precious Jade felt so gloomy that the honor conferred on First Spring Merchant failed to cheer him up. Precious Jade remained indifferent, separating himself from congratulations of relatives, excitement in Jia Fu and triumph of others. His behavior was ridiculed by everyone.
Luckily, a messenger came with the news that Romance Merchant and Mascara Jade would arrive home tomorrow. Hearing this, Precious Jade showed a little joy. He asked the man and knew that Rainvillage Merchant also came to the capital to pay homage. For thanks to Soar King’s recommendations he had been summoned to wait for a metropolitan appointment; and being a distant cousin of Romance Merchant’s and Mascara Jade’s former tutor, he wad travelling with them. Lin Ruhai has been buried in the ancestral graveyard, his obsequies completed, Romance Merchant started to come to the capital. Normally, they would arrive home in the beginning of the month; however, First Spring’s good news made them hurry back home. The journey was safe and smooth.--[[User:Deng Dan1|Deng Dan1]] ([[User talk:Deng Dan1|talk]]) 16:03, 27 April 2021 (UTC)

Luckily, a messenger came with the news that Jia Lian and Mascara would arrive home tomorrow. Hearing this, Precious Jade is joyful . He asked the man and knew that Rain Village also came to the capital to pay homage. For thanks to Wang Ziteng’s recommendations he had been summoned to wait for a metropolitan appointment; and being a distant cousin of Jia Lian’s and Mascara ’s former tutor, he wad travelling with them. Lin Ruhai has been buried in the ancestral graveyard, his obsequies completed, Jia Lian started to come to the capital. Normally, they would arrive in the beginning of the month; however, Yuanchun’s good news made them hurry back home. The journey has safety and smoothness .--[[User:Ding Zhongxia|Ding Zhongxia]] ([[User talk:Ding Zhongxia|talk]]) 23:43, 30 March 2021 (UTC)Ding Zhongxia

=Dīng Zhòngxià 丁仲夏=
好容易盼到明日午错，果报：“琏二爷和林姑娘进府了。”见面时彼此悲喜
交集，未免大哭一场，又致慰庆之词。宝玉心中忖度黛玉，越发出落的超逸了。
黛玉又带了许多书籍来，忙着打扫卧室，安排器具，又将些纸笔等物分送与宝
钗、迎春、宝玉等。宝玉又将北静王所赠零苓香串珍重取出来，转送黛玉。黛玉
说：“什么臭男人拿过的，我不要这东西！”遂掷而不取。宝玉只得收回，暂且无话。

且说贾琏自回家见过众人，回至房中，正值凤姐事繁，无片刻闲空，见贾琏
远路归来，少不得拨冗接待。房内无外人，便笑道：“国舅老爷大喜！国舅老爷
一路的风尘辛苦！小的听见昨日的头起报马来报说，今日大驾归府，略预备了
一杯水酒掸尘，不知可赐光谬领否？”贾琏笑道：“岂敢，岂敢！多承，多承。”一面平儿与众丫鬟参见毕，献茶。

Very hard to look forward to tomorrow afternoon wrong, the result: "Lian two Lord and miss Lin into the mansion." When they meet each other sad and happy
Intersection, rather a cry, and to celebrate the words of comfort. Precious Jade was thinking of Mascara Jade more and more elegantly.Mascara Jade also brought a lot of books, and was busy cleaning the bedroom, arranging utensils, and distributing some paper and pens to Bao
Flowers, spring, jade and so on. Precious Jade then took out the string of Lingxiang as a gift from the king of Beijing and sent it to Daiyu. The dai jade
Say: "what smelly man took of, I don't want this thing!" Then throw and do not take. Baoyu had to take back, and no words for the time being.

Jia Lian had seen many people since he returned home. When he returned to his room, Sister Feng was busy and had no spare time to see Jia Lian
Long way back, must not spare some time to receive. No outsiders in the room, he said with a smile: "uncle great joy! The prince's maternal uncle master
All the way the wind and dust hard! The younger one heard yesterday's first Malay information horse saying, "Today you are going back to the government, and I am slightly ready.
A cup of water and wine to dust, I do not know can give light false collar?" Jia Lian smiled: "How dare you! Keep it, keep it." One side of the girl and all the maids see the graduation, offer tea.

=Dù Xīnyǔ 杜心语=
贾琏遂问别后家中诸事，又谢凤姐的操持辛苦。凤姐道：“我那里管得这
些事来！见识又浅，口角又笨，心肠又直率，‘人家给个棒槌，我就认作针’。脸又软，搁不住人家给两句好话，心里就慈悲了。况且又没经过大事，胆子又小，
太太略有些不自在，就连觉也睡不着了。我苦辞过几回，太太又不许，倒说我图
受用，不肯学习。殊不知我是捻着一把汗呢。一句也不敢多说，一步也不敢妄
行。你是知道的，咱们家所有的这些管家奶奶，那一个是好缠的？错一点儿他
们就笑话打趣，偏一点儿他们就‘指桑说槐’的抱怨；‘坐山看虎斗’，‘借刀杀人’，‘引风吹火’，‘站干岸儿’，‘推倒油瓶不扶’，都是全挂子的武艺。况且我年纪轻，不压人，怨不得不放我在眼里。更可笑那府里蓉儿媳妇死了，珍大哥再三在太太跟前跪着讨情，只要请我帮他几日；我是再四推辞，太太做情允了，只得从命，依旧被我闹了个马仰人翻，更不成个体统，至今珍大哥还抱怨后悔呢。你明儿见了他，好歹描补描补，就说我年纪小，原没见过世面，谁叫大爷错委了他。”

Jia Lian then asked about other family matters, and after asking, he thanks Sister Feng for her hard work in helping him with his family affairs. Sister Feng said, "how can I manage these things! I'm not good at words. I'm straightforward. "If someone gives me a mallet, I'll take it as a needle.". My ears are soft, I can't resist a few good words, and my heart is soft. Besides, I haven't experienced any major events, and I'm timid. As long as my wife is a little uncomfortable, I can't even sleep well. I refused several times, but my wife didn't agree. On the contrary, she said that I only like to enjoy the comfort and refuse to study. But she did not know that I was holding a sweat, did not dare to say a word, did not dare to step out without authorization. As you know, which of all the old housekeepers in our family is a good talker? If you do something wrong, they will make fun of you. If you do something eccentric, they will complain‘ It's not easy to get into trouble when you're lazy enough to sit in the mountains and watch the tiger fight, kill people with a knife, start a fire and stand by. Besides, I'm too young to hold people down. They don't pay attention to me. But brother Rong's daughter-in-law died in Xiaofu. Brother Zhen knelt down in front of his wife again and again, asking me to help him for a few days; I refused several times. Finally, my wife agreed with me. I had to obey my orders. But in the end, I still made a fuss, which was even more out of order. Up to now, brother Jane still complains and regrets. If you see him tomorrow, you can help me to talk. You just say that I'm young and I haven't seen the world. let the moster wronged him. "

=Guō Yàbō 郭亚波=
说着，只听外间有人说话，凤姐便问：“是谁？”平儿进来回道：“姨太太打发了香菱妹子来问我一句话，我已经说了，打发他回去了。”贾琏笑道：“正是呢，我方才见姨妈去，和一个年轻的小媳妇子撞了个对面，生得好齐整模样。我疑惑咱家并无此人，说话时问姨蚂，方知道是上京买来的小丫头，名叫什么‘香菱’的，竟与薛大傻子作了房里的人，开了脸，越发出挑的标致了。那薛大傻子真玷辱了他。”凤姐道：“哎！往苏杭走了一趟回来，也该见些世面了，还是这样眼馋肚饱的。你要爱他，不值什么，我拿平儿去换了他来如何？那薛老大也是‘吃着碗里瞧着锅里’的，这一年来的光景，他为香菱儿不能到手，和姨妈打了多少饥荒。那姨妈看着香菱模样儿好还是小事，其为人行事，更又比别的女孩子不同，温柔安静，差不多的主子姑娘还跟不上他，故此摆酒请客的费事，明堂正道与他做了妾。过了没半月，也看的没事人一大堆了。我倒心里可惜他。”一语
未了，二门上小厮传报：“老爷在大书房等二爷呢。”贾琏听了，忙忙整衣出去。

Just then they heard voices outside and Splendid Phoenix King asked who was there. Patience came in and said, "Aunt Marshgrass sent Wiselotus Potterymaker over to ask me something. I’ve given her an answer and sent her back.” “That reminds me,” said Romance Merchant. “When I called on Aunt Marshgrass just now, I ran into a very handsome young woman whom I didn’t think belonged to our household and wondered who she could be. In the course of conversation I learned she’s the girl they bought just before coming to the capital. Her name’s Wiselotus Potterymaker. She belongs to that imbecile Marshgrass now, and since he made her his concubine and her face has been slicked she’s grown even lovelier. She’s too good for that silly fool.” “Well!” exclaimed Splendid Phoenix King. “I should have thought you’d have seen enough of the world now that you’re back from a trip to Suzhou and Hangzhou, but you’re never satisfied. If you love her, that’s simple: I’ll exchange our Patience for her how about that? Dragon Marshgrass is another of those greedy-guts who keep ‘one eye on the bowl and the other on the pan.’ Look how he plagued his mother for a whole year just to get hold of Splendid Phoenix King . It’s because Aunt Marshgrass saw she’s not only pretty but really well-behaved, being even gentler and quieter than most young ladies, that she went to all the trouble of inviting guests to a feast to make her his concubine in proper style. Yet in less than a fortnight he’s treating her like dirt. It’s really too bad.”At this point a page from the inner gate reported that Master Merchant was waiting for Romance Merchant in the big library. The young man hastily straightened his clothes and went out.

--[[User:Huang Fangfang|Huang Fangfang]] ([[User talk:Huang Fangfang|talk]]) 05:47, 9 June 2021 (UTC)
Just then they heard voices from outside and Sister Phoenix asked who was there. Patience came in and said, "Aunt Marshgrass sent Wiselotus Potterymaker over to ask me something. I’ve given her an answer and sent her back.” “That reminds me,” said Romance Merchant. “When I called on Aunt Marshgrass just now, I ran into a very handsome young woman whom I didn’t think belonged to our household and wondered who she could be. In the course of conversation I learned she’s the girl they bought just before coming to the capital. Her name’s Wiselotus Potterymaker. She belongs to that imbecile Marshgrass now, and since he made her his concubine, her face has been slicked and she’s grown even lovelier. She’s too good for that silly fool.” “Well!” exclaimed Sister Phoenix. “I should have thought you’d have seen enough of the world now that you’re back from a trip to Suzhou and Hangzhou, but you’re never satisfied. If you love her, that’s simple: I’ll exchange our Patience for her. How about that? Dragon Marshgrass is another of those greedy-guts who keep ‘one eye on the bowl and the other on the pan.’ Look how he plagued his mother for a whole year just to get hold of Wiselotus Potterymaker. It’s because Aunt Marshgrass saw she’s not only pretty but really well-behaved, being even gentler and quieter than most young ladies, that she went to all the trouble of inviting guests to a feast to make her his concubine in proper style. Yet in less than a fortnight he’s treating her as dirt. It’s really too bad.”At this point a page from the inner gate reported that Master Merchant was waiting for Romance Merchant in the big library. Romance Merchant hastily straightened his clothes and went out.

=Huáng Fāngfāng 黄芳芳=
这里凤姐乃问平儿：“方才姨妈有什么事，巴巴儿的打发香菱来？”平儿道：
“那里来的香菱，是我借他暂撒个谎儿。奶奶你说，旺儿嫂子越发连个成算也
没了。”说着，又走至凤姐身边，悄悄说道：“奶奶的那利银迟不送来，早不送来，这会子二爷在家，他偏送这个来了。幸亏我在堂屋里磞见，不然他走了来回奶奶，二爷少不得要知道，我们二爷那脾气，油锅里的还要捞出来花呢，知道奶奶有了体己，他还不大着胆子花么？所以我赶着接过来，教我说了他两句，谁知奶奶偏听见了。我故此当着二爷面前只说香菱儿来了。”凤姐听了笑道：“我说
呢，姨妈知道你二爷来了，忽剌巴的反打发个房里人来了，原来你这蹄子闹鬼！”

说着贾琏已进来了，凤姐命摆上酒馔来，夫妻对坐。凤姐虽善饮，却不敢任兴，只陪侍着。见贾琏的乳母赵嬷嬷走来。贾琏凤姐忙让吃酒，令其上炕去。

Here Sister Phoenix asked Ping: "What’s your aunt’s problem? She had anxiously sent Xiang Ling here." Ping said:" Nothing to do with Xiang Ling. Just I told a lie on his account. Tell me, grandmother, sister-in-law Wang is getting worse and worse." Saying this, then she went to Sister Phoenix and whispered," Madam’s sliver of interest is sent here neither later nor earlier, sent this moment when second master is at home. T hanks to my coming across him, otherwise if he walked back to see Madam, he must know it. What is the temper of our second master? He would get it even out of a frying pan to spend it. Knowing that Madam has an intimate, he may spend silver audaciously? So I rushed to take over slver, and complains of he with words. It’s surprising that Madam heard it casually. Thus, in front of the second master, I just said that Xiang Ling had come." Sister Phoenix laughed and said: "Oh Aunt knew the second master coming, suddenly stabbed of the contrary sent a room person to come. It was because that you this hoof made a trick!"
Jia Lian had already come in. Sister Phoenix ordered to set up alcoholic drink and dishes. The couple sat down to each other. Though Sister Phoenix is good at drinking, she did not dare to leave by herself but to keep company. Seeing Jia Lian’s nurse， Nanny Zhao，coming, Sister Phoenix invited Jia Lian to sit on the Kang, and drink some alcohol.

=Huáng Lìpèi 黄沥霈=
赵嬷嬷执意不肯。平儿等早于炕沿设下一几，又有小脚踏，赵嬷嬷在脚踏上坐
了，贾琏向桌上拣两盘肴馔与他，放在几上自吃。凤姐又道：“妈妈很嚼不动那
个，没的倒硌了他的牙。”因问平儿道：“早起我说那一碗火腿炖肘子很烂，正好给妈妈吃，你怎么不拿了去赶着叫他们热来？”又道：“妈妈，你尝一尝你儿子带来的惠泉酒。”赵嬷嬷道：“我喝呢，奶奶也喝一钟。怕什么？只不要过多了就是了。我这会子跑了来，倒也不为酒饭，倒有一件正经事，奶奶好歹记在心里，疼顾我些罢！我们这爷，只是嘴里说的好，到了跟前就忘了我们。幸亏我从小儿奶了你这么大。我也老了，有的是那两个儿子，你就另眼照看他们些，别人也不敢呲牙儿的。我还再三的求了你几遍，你答应的倒好，如今还是燥屎。这如
今又从无上跑出这样一件大喜事来，那里用不着人？所以倒是来和奶奶说是正
经。靠着我们爷，只怕我还饿死了呢。

But Nanny Walk was obstinate in her refusal. Patience and the other waiting-maids had placed a square stool next to the edge of the couch at an early hour, and there was a small footstool, and Nanny Walk took a seat on this footstool, whereupon Romance Merchant chose two dishes of delicacies from the table which he handed her and placed on the square stool for her won use. "Nanny Walk," Sister Phoenix remarked, "couldn't bite through that very well, as it might make her teeth drop! This morning," therefore she asked Patience, "I supposed that the shoulder of pork stewed with ham was so tender as it could be given to Nanny Walk to eat, and how come you haven't taken it over to her? Also, tell them to warm it and bring it in!" she went on, "Nanny Walk, you should taste this Kindness-Spring wine that brought by your foster-son." "I'll drink it," replied Nanny Walk, "but you, my lady, must also have a cup: what is there to be afraid of? As long as there is not any excess, that's all! But the reason I have come over, not for any wine and eatables; in contrast, there is a serious matter which I would ask for your ladyship to impress on your mind and to show me some regard, for this master of ours is only good to say some fine words, but when the time does come, he will forget all about us! As I have had the good fortune to nurse him in his infancy and bring him up to this age, I have grown old in years too, and all that belong to me are those two sons, also do look upon them with some favor! With anyone else, I shouldn't have ventured to open my mouth, but him, I will implored on several occasions anyway. Your assent was of course good, but up to those very moments he still withholds his help. Now, besides from the heavens has dropped such a piece of good luck, and in what place will there be no need of servants? That is why I come to tell you, my lady, as is right, for I were to depend upon our master, I am afraid that I shall even die of starvation."

=Huáng Xiàolán 黄笑兰=
凤姐笑道：“妈妈，你的两个奶哥哥都交给我。你从小儿奶的儿子还有什么不知他那脾气的？拿着皮肉倒往那不相干的外人身上贴。可见现放着奶哥哥那一个不比人强？你疼顾照看他们，谁敢说个‘不’字儿？没的白便宜了外人。我这话也说错了，我们看着是‘外人’，你却看着是‘内人’一样呢。”说着，满屋里人都笑了。赵嬷嬷也笑个不住，又念佛道：“可是屋子里跑出青天来了。要说‘内人’‘外人’这些混账缘故，我们爷是没有；不过是脸软心慈，搁不住人求两句罢了。”凤姐笑道：“可不是呢，有‘内人’的他才慈软呢，他在咱们娘儿们跟前才是刚硬呢！”赵嬷嬷道：“奶奶说的太尽情了，我也乐了，再吃一杯好酒。从此我们奶奶做了主，我就没的愁了。”

Xifeng laughed, "Just leave two foster-brothers to me, nanny. You know what he's like since you nursed him from babyhood. He goes out of his way to help complete strangers, people nowhere near as deserving as his two foster-brothers. Who could possibly object if he did something for them? But he just favors outsiders. Well, perhaps I shouldn’t say that. The people we consider outsiders are ‘in’ with him.” That raised a general laugh. Nanny Zhao chortled as ifs she would never stop. Then she said: “So here comes an impartial judge. Our master would be so cruel as to treat us as outsiders: but he's so kind-hearted he can’t say “no” to other people's requests to him. It's only to us womenfolk that he is adamant.” Xifeng laughed, “Oh yes, he’s very soft and generous to those “in” with him. It’s only to us womenfolk that he’s adamant.” “You've been so good, madam, and made me so happy that I’ll have another cup of that excellent wine. Now that I've got you to look after us, I needn't worry anymore.” Nanny Zhao replied.

Sister Phoenix laughed, "Just leave two foster-brothers to me, nanny. You know what he's like since you nursed him from babyhood. He goes out of his way to help unrelated strangers, none of whom deserves but the foster-brothers. Who could possibly object if he did something for them? But he just favors outsiders. Well, perhaps I shouldn’t say that. The people we consider outsiders are ‘insiders’ with him.” All the people inside burst into laughter. Nanny Zhao chortled as if she would never stop. Then she said: “So here comes an impartial judge. Our master would be so cruel as to treat us as outsiders: but he's so kind-hearted he can’t say “no” to other people's requests. It's only to us womenfolk that he is adamant.” Xifeng laughed, “Oh yes, he’s very soft and generous to those “in” with him. It’s only to us womenfolk that he’s adamant.” “You've been so good, madam, and made me so happy that I’ll have another cup of that excellent wine. Now that I've got you to look after us, I needn't https://wiki.ruhr-uni-bochum.de/skins/common/images/button_hr.pngworry anymore.” Nanny Zhao replied.--[[User:Huang Zilong|Huang Zilong]] ([[User talk:Huang Zilong|talk]]) 05:15, 31 March 2021 (UTC)

Sister Phoenix laughed, "Just leave two foster-brothers to me, nanny. You know what he's like since you nursed him from babyhood. He goes out of his way to help complete strangers, people nowhere near as deserving as his two foster-brothers. Who could possibly object if he did something for them? But he just favors outsiders. Well, perhaps I shouldn’t say that. The people we consider outsiders are ‘in’ with him.” That raised a general laugh.Nanny Walk chortled as ifs she would never stop. Then she said: “So here comes an impartial judge. Our master would be so cruel as to treat us as outsiders: but he's so kind-hearted he can’t say “no” to other people's requests him. It's only to us womenfolk that hes adamant.” Splendid Phoenix laughed, “Oh yes, he’s very soft and generous to those “in” with him. It’s only to us womenfolk that he’s adamant.” “You've been so good, madam, and made me so happy that I’ll have another cup of that excellent wine. Now that I've got you to look after us, I needn't worry any more.”Nanny Walk replied.

--[[User:Huang Xiaolan|Huang Xiaolan]] ([[User talk:Huang Xiaolan|talk]]) 16:34, 26 April 2021 (UTC)

=Huáng Zǐlóng 黄梓龙 Mr.=
贾琏此时没好意思，只是讪笑道：“你们别胡说了，快盛饭来吃，还要往珍
大爷那边去商议事呢。”凤姐道：“可是，别误了正事。刚才老爷叫你说什么？”
贾琏道：“就为省亲的事。”凤姐忙问道：“省亲的事竟准了？”贾琏笑道：“虽不十分准，也有八九分了。”凤姐笑道：“可见当今的隆恩呢！历来听书看戏，古时从来未有的。”赵嬷嬷又接口道：“可是呢，我也老糊涂了。我听见上上下下吵嚷了这些日子，什么省亲不省亲，我也不理论他去；如今又说省亲，到底是怎么个缘故？”贾琏道：“如今当今体贴万人之心，世上至大莫如‘孝’字，想来父母儿女之性，皆是一理，不在贵贱上分的。当今自为日夜侍奉太上皇、皇太后，尚不能略尽孝意，因见宫里嫔妃才人等皆是入宫多年，抛离父母，岂有不思想之理？

Jia Lian was shy and pretended to smile, “Don’t talk nonsense any more. You’d better go to fill a bowl with rice and eat, because we are going to Cousin Zhen’s place to discuss something important. Xi Feng said, “So we are. Do not delay the matters. What did master ask you to say?” Jia Lian replied, “Just the matter of visiting parents.” Xi Feng hastened to ask, “The matter was permitted?” Jia Lian smiled, “Almost.” Xi feng laughed, “ You can see the grace of the empire. I have never heard such thing in history even if I listened to so much storytelling or watched so much theatre.” Mammy Zhao asked immediately, “There are so much words about the visiting parents in the mansion these days. I didn’t care about it. Now it is mentioned again. So what on earth does it for?” Jia Lian answered, “ The empire cares his people.There is no such thing as important as filial piety in the world, which is the same for all families, without any difference between the gentle and simple. The empire serves his parents day and night and is afraid not to exert his filial piety. Considering that all the concubines in the imperial place have been in the palace for years, leaving their parents at home, there is no reason for the them not to miss their parents.

Jia Lian was shy and pretended to smile, “No nonsense any more. Fill a bowl with rice quickly, and we are going to Cousin Zhen’s place to discuss something important. Xi Feng said, “So we are. Do not delay the matters. What did master ask you to say?” Jia Lian replied, “Just the matter of visiting parents.” Xi Feng hastened to ask, “The matter was permitted?” Jia Lian smiled, “Almost.” Xi feng laughed, “ You can see the grace of the empire. I have never heard such thing in history even if I listened to so much storytelling or watched so much theatre.” Mammy Zhao asked immediately, “There are so much words about the visiting parents in the mansion these days. I didn’t care about it. Now it is mentioned again. So what on earth does it for?” Jia Lian answered, “ The empire cares his people.There is no such thing as important as filial piety in the world, which is the same for all families, without any difference between the gentle and simple. The empire serves his parents day and night and is afraid not to exert his filial piety. Considering that all the concubines in the imperial place have been in the palace for years, leaving their parents at home, there is no reason for the them not to miss their parents. ——Li Yihao

=Lǐ Yìhào 李艺浩=
且父母在家，思想女儿，不能一见，倘因此成疾，亦大伤天和之事，故启奏上皇、太后，每月逢二六日期，准其椒房眷属入官请候省视。于是太上皇、皇太后大喜，深赞当今至孝纯仁，体天格物。因此二位老圣人又下旨谕说：椒房眷属入宫，未免有关国体仪制，母女尚未能惬怀。竟大开方便之恩，特降谕诸椒房贵戚，除二六日入官之恩外，凡有重宇别院之家，可以驻跸关防者，不妨启请内廷銮舆人其私第，庶可尽骨肉私情，共享天伦之乐事。此旨下了，谁不踊跃感戴？现今周贵妃的父亲已在家里动了工，俺盖省亲的别院呢。又有吴贵妃的父亲吴天祐家，也往城外踏看地方去了。这岂非有八九分了？”

And parents at home missed their daughter, but they had no way to see their child. If this leads to parents' disease, it also harmed the morality greatly. So Emperor requested his father and his mother to allow her relatives to visit her into the palace six days. So emperor's father and his mother was very joyful and appreciated his for kindness, filial piety and comformation to God. So the two old sage decreed, written this thing was about our etiquette system and can not be satisfied. As a result, specially ordered her family into the palace except six days. And if there was other large and great houses and could be stationed, imperial concubine might wish to order servants to send them into the private with expressing miss and sharing family happiness. Under this order, who would be not grateful? Now the father of Zhou who was highest-ranking imperial concubine started to the house and the family of Wu Tianyou who was the father of Wu who was highest-ranking imperial concubine had gone out of the city to find the place. This had a great possibility.
——Li Yihao
And parents missed their daughter, but they had no way to see their child. Then he thought what a crime against nature it would be if these parents were to become ill for not seeing their daughters. So he requested the Ex-Emperor and Ex-Empress to allow the families of palace ladies to visit them in the palace on the twelfth day of every month.So the Ex-Emperor and Ex-Empress was very joyful and appreciated for his kindness, filial piety, and ”doing Heaven’s work among men”. So they decreed that when the families of palace ladies came to the Palace for these visits, inevitably they would be hampered to the etiquette system as well as their natural feelings. As a result, the Emperor specially issued a decree except the visit in the Palace on the twelfth day. He allowed any family which had a separate houses and could be stationed, imperial concubine might wish to order servants to send them into the private with expressing miss and sharing family happiness. This decree has created quite a stir. Now Concubine Lady Zhou’s father starts to build a wing in his house for visitations, and Lady Wu’s father, Wu Tianyou, has gone outside the city to site for this, and maybe it has settled for eight or nine parts.--[[User:Liu Tingyang|Liu Tingyang]] ([[User talk:Liu Tingyang|talk]]) 23:54, 30 March 2021 (UTC)Liu Tingyang

=Liú Tíngyáng 刘廷阳=
赵嬷嬷道：“阿弥陀佛！原来如此。这样说起，咱们家也要预备接大小姐
了？”贾琏道“这何用说？不然这会子忙的是什么？”凤姐笑道：“果然如此，我可也见个大世面了。可恨我小几岁年纪，苦早生二三十年，如今这些老人家也
不薄我没见世面了。说起当年太祖皇帝仿舜巡的故事，比一部书还热闹，我偏
没造化赶上。”赵嬷嬷道：“嗳哟！那可是千载希逢的！那时候我才记事儿，咱
们贾府正在姑苏扬州一带监造海船，修理海塘，只预备接驾一次，把银子花的像
淌海水似的！说起来……”凤姐忙接道：“我们王府里也预备过一次。那时我
爷爷专管各国进贡朝贺的事，凡有外国人来，都是我们家养活。粤、闽、滇、浙所有的洋船货物都是我们家的。”

“Amitabha Buddha!” said Nannie Zhao. “So that’s what it is! Speaking of this, I suppose that we shall soon be getting ready to receive our young lady?’ “Definitely.What else do you think we’re busy for?”Said Jia Lian.Xi-feng laughed and said:“If we finish it, it is a great experience for me to get through. Unfortunate for my young age. Only if I’d been born twenty or thirty years, those elders would not regard me as an inferiority as now. I heard about that the Emperor Tai-zu’s Southern Progress is much interesting than a novel. How I wish I could be there to see all of them!”"Ah, I know!" said Nannie Zhao. "That’s a sort of thing that scarce comes once in a thousand years! In those days, as I was in an age that I could remember, the Jia family was the superintendent of shipyards and repairing sea pond in the Gusu-Yangzhou Area. The way they spent silver on that visit of the Emperor, it was like pouring out sea water! In fact..." Xi-feng cut her short promptly: "We Wang palace prepare to receive the Emperor once too. At that time, my grandfather was in charge of all the foreign tribute to the Court. As those foreigners arrived, it was always my family to receive them. All the foreign goods of Kwangtung, Fukien, Yunnan and Chekiang are passed through our hands." --[[User:Liu Tingyang|Liu Tingyang]] ([[User talk:Liu Tingyang|talk]]) 13:28, 27 March 2021 (UTC)Liu Tingyang

“Amitabha Buddha!” said Nannie Zhao,“So that’s what it is! Speaking of this, I suppose that we shall soon be getting ready to receive our young lady?" “Definitely.What else do you think we’re busy for?”said Jia Lian. Xi-feng laughed and said:“If we finish it, it is a great experience for me to get through. Unfortunate for my young age. Only if I’d been born twenty or thirty years earlier, those elders would not regard me as an inferiority now. I heard about that the Emperor Tai-zu's Southern Progress which imitated Shun's is much more interesting than a novel's plot. What a pity that I don't have the fortune to see all of those things.”"Ah, I know!" said Nannie Zhao, "That’s a sort of thing that scarce occurs once in a thousand years! In those days, as I was at an age when I began to memorize something, the Jia family was the superintendent of shipyards and repairing sea pond in Gusu-Yangzhou Area. The way they spent silver on that visit of the Emperor was like pouring out sea water! In fact..." Xi-feng cut her short promptly, "We Wang Mansion prepared to receive the Emperor once, too. At that time, my grandfather was in charge of all the foreign tribute to the Court. As those foreigners arrived, it was always my family to receive them. All the foreign goods of Kwangtung, Fukien, Yunnan and Chekiang were passed through our hands."--[[User:Liu Zhuofan|Liu Zhuofan]] ([[User talk:Liu Zhuofan|talk]]) 13:56, 27 March 2021 (UTC)

“Amitabha Buddha!” said Nanny Walk,“So that’s what it is! Speaking of this, I suppose that we shall soon be getting ready to receive our young lady?" “Definitely.What else do you think we’re busy for?”said Romance Merchant. Splendid Phoenix King laughed and said:“If we finish it, it is a great experience for me to get through. Unfortunate for my young age. Only if I’d been born twenty or thirty years earlier, those elders would not regard me as an inferiority now. I heard about that the Emperor Tai-zu's Southern Progress which imitated Shun's is much more interesting than a novel's plot. What a pity that I don't have the fortune to see all of those things.”"Ah, I know!" said Nanny Walk, "That’s a sort of thing that scarce occurs once in a thousand years! In those days, as I was at an age when I began to memorize something, the Jia family was the superintendent of shipyards and repairing sea pond in Gusu-Yangzhou Area. The way they spent silver on that visit of the Emperor was like pouring out sea water! In fact..." Splendid Phoenix King cut her short promptly, "We Wang Mansion prepared to receive the Emperor once, too. At that time, my grandfather was in charge of all the foreign tribute to the Court. As those foreigners arrived, it was always my family to receive them. All the foreign goods of Kwangtung, Fukien, Yunnan and Chekiang were passed through our hands."--[[User:Liu Tingyang|Liu Tingyang]] ([[User talk:Liu Tingyang|talk]]) 11:55, 27 April 2021 (UTC)

=Liú Zhuōfán 刘卓凡 Mr.=
赵嬷嬷道：“那是谁不知道的？如今还有个口号儿呢，说‘东海少了白玉
床，龙王来请江南王。’这说的就是奶奶府上了。如今还有现在江南的甄家，噯
哟哟！好势派！独他家接驾四次，若不是我们亲眼看见，告诉谁也不信的。别
讲银子成了土泥，凭是世上有的，没有不是堆山积海的。‘罪过可惜’四个字竟
顾不得了。”凤姐道：“我常听见我们太爷说，也是这样的。岂有不信的？只纳
罕他家怎么就这样富贵呢？”赵嬷嬷道：“告诉奶奶一句话，也不过拿着皇帝家
的银子往皇帝身上使罢了！谁家有那些钱买这个虚热闹去？”
正说着，王夫人又打发人来瞧凤姐吃完了饭不曾。凤姐便知有事等他，忙
忙的吃了饭，漱口要走，又有二门上小厮们回：“东府里蓉蔷二位哥儿来了。”

Mammy Zhao said, “Who doesn’t know that? There is a slogan even in these days. It is said that ‘ there is no white jade bed in East Sea and the Dragon King comes to invite the King of south of the Yangtze River.’ This describes your family. Nowadays, there is the Zhen Family in the regions south of the Yangtze River. Ooh ooh ooh! So grand! Only they have welcomed the emperor to their home four times. If we didn’t see it in person, no one would believe. Don’t talk about silver becoming just like mud, there is nothing that does not pile up in their home. No one thinks excess guilty.” Lady Phoenix said, “I often heard that from my grandfather, just as same as you said. Does anyone not believe? I only feel puzzled why they are so wealthy?” Mammy Zhao said, “I’d like to tell you one thing. They just spent their money earned from the emperor on the emperor. Who has the money to buy the pompous buzz?” when they are chatting, Lady Wang sent someone to see whether Lady Phoenix had finished her dinner or not again. Lady Phoenix knew there was something waiting for her. She hurried to finish her dishes and rinse her mouth and she was going to set out. There were two doorkeepers coming to report that Lotus Jia and Rose Jia two of East Mansion came here.

Mammy Zhao said, “Who doesn’t know that? There is a slogan even in these days. It is said that ‘ there is no white jade bed in the East Sea and the Dragon King comes to invite the King of south of the Yangtze River.’ This describes your family. Nowadays, there is the Zhen Family in the regions south of the Yangtze River. Ooh, ooh, ooh! So grand! Only they have welcomed the emperor to their home four times. If we didn’t see it in person, no one would believe it. Don’t talk about silver becoming just like mud, there is nothing that does not pile up in their home. No one thinks excess guilty.” Lady Phoenix said, “I often heard that from my grandfather, just the same as you said. Does anyone not believe that? I only feel puzzled about why they are so wealthy?” Mammy Zhao said, “I’d like to tell you one thing. They just spent their money earned from the emperor on the emperor. Who has the money to buy the pompous buzz?” When they were chatting, Lady Wang sent someone to see whether Lady Phoenix had finished her dinner or not again. Lady Phoenix knew there was something waiting for her. She hurried to finish her dishes and rinse her mouth and she was going to set out. There were two doorkeepers coming to report that Lotus Jia and Rose Jia, two of East Mansion, came here.

--[[User:Peng Jiayu|Peng Jiayu]] ([[User talk:Peng Jiayu|talk]]) 11:07, 30 March 2021 (UTC)

Nanny Zhao said, “Who doesn’t know that? There is a slogan even in these days. It is said that ‘ there is no white jade bed in East Sea and the Dragon King comes to invite the King of south of the Yangtze River.’ This describes your family. Nowadays, there is the Zhen Family in the regions south of the Yangtze River. Ooh ooh ooh! So grand! Only they have welcomed the emperor to their home four times. If we didn’t see it in person, no one would believe. Don’t talk about silver becoming just like mud, there is nothing that does not pile up in their home. No one thinks excess guilty.” Splendid Phoenix said, “I often heard that from my grandfather, just as same as you said. Does anyone not believe? I only feel puzzled why they are so wealthy?” Nanny Zhao said, “I’d like to tell you one thing. They just spent their money earned from the emperor on the emperor. Who has the money to buy the pompous buzz?” when they are chatting, Lady Wang sent someone to see whether Splendid Phoenix had finished her dinner or not again. Splendid Phoenix knew there was something waiting for her. She hurried to finish her dishes and rinse her mouth and she was going to set out. There were two doorkeepers coming to report that Lotus Jia and Rose Jia two of East Mansion came here.--[[User:Liu Zhuofan|Liu Zhuofan]] ([[User talk:Liu Zhuofan|talk]]) 14:10, 24 April 2021 (UTC)

=Péng Jiāyù 彭佳钰=
贾琏才漱了口，平儿捧着盆盥手，见他二人来了，便问：“说什么话？”凤姐因亦止步，只听贾蓉先回说：“我父亲打发我来回叔叔：老爷们已经议定了，从东边一带，接着东府里花园起，至西北，丈量了，一共三里半大，可以盖造省亲别院了。已经传人画图样去，明日就得。叔叔才回家，未免劳乏，不用过我们那边去，有话明日一早再请过去面议。”贾琏笑说：“多谢大爷费心，体谅我，就从命不过去了。正经是这个主意，才省事，盖造也容易；若采置别的地方去，那更费事，且倒不成体统。你回去说，这样很好，若老爷们再要改时，全仗大爷谏阻，万不可另寻地方。明日一早，我给大爷请安去，再议细话。”贾蓉忙应几个“是”。

贾蔷又近前回说：“下姑苏请聘教习，采买女孩子，置办乐器行头等事，大
爷派了侄儿，带领着来管家两个儿子，还有单聘仁、卜固修两个清客相公，一同
前往，所以命我来见叔叔。”贾琏听了，将贾蔷打量了打量，笑道：“你能够在行么？这个事虽不甚大，里头却有藏掖的。”贾蔷笑道：“只好学着办罢了。”

Just at the time Jia Lian rinsed his mouth and Pinger brought him a basin to wash his hands,these two people came in. He asked what they wanted, and Xifeng stayed to hear Jia Rong's reply: “My father sent me to tell you, uncle, that the old gentlemen had settled on a plan. We’ve measured the distance from the east wall through the garden of the East Mansion to the north, and it comes to three and a half, enough to build a separate court for the visit. Someone has been commissioned to draw a plan which should be ready tomorrow. Since you must be tired after your journey, please don’t think of coming over. If you’ve any proposals, you can make them first thing tomorrow.” “Kindly thank your father for his consideration,” replied Jia Lian. “I shall do as what he says and not call on him now. This is the best possible scheme, and the easiest and the simplest one to carry out. Any other site would entail more work without such good results. Tell him when you get back that I thoroughly approve, and if the old gentlemen have second thoughts, I hope he will dissuade them from looking for another site. When I come tomorrow to pay my respects, we can talk about it in detail.” Jia Rong agreed at once to pass on this message.

Jia Qiang now stepped forward to announce, “My uncle has given me the job of going to Suzhou with Lai Da's two sons and the two secretaries, Shan Pingren and Bu Guxiu. We’re going to hire instructors, buy girl actresses and musical instruments and costumes there. He told me to let you know.” Jia Lian looked quizzically at the young man and asked, “Are you sure you're up to it? This may not be a big job, but there should be plenty of perks if you know the ropes.” “I shall have to learn,” was Jia Qiang's cheerful reply.

--[[User:Peng Jiayu|Peng Jiayu]] ([[User talk:Peng Jiayu|talk]]) 11:03, 30 March 2021 (UTC)

Just at the time Romance Merchant rinsed his mouth and Patience brought him a basin to wash his hands,these two people came in. He asked what they wanted, and Splendid Phoenix King stayed to hear Prosperity Merchant 's reply: “My father sent me to tell you, uncle, that the old gentlemen had settled on a plan. We’ve measured the distance from the east wall through the garden of the East Mansion to the north, and it comes to three and a half, enough to build a separate court for the visit. Someone has been commissioned to draw a plan which should be ready tomorrow. Since you must be tired after your journey, please don’t think of coming over. If you’ve any proposals, you can make them first thing tomorrow.” “Kindly thank your father for his consideration,” replied Romance Merchant. “I shall do as what he says and not call on him now. This is the best possible scheme, and the easiest and the simplest one to carry out. Any other site would entail more work without such good results. Tell him when you get back that I thoroughly approve, and if the old gentlemen have second thoughts, I hope he will dissuade them from looking for another site. When I come tomorrow to pay my respects, we can talk about it in detail.” Prosperity Merchant agreed at once to pass on this message.
Jia Qiang now stepped forward to announce, “My uncle has given me the job of going to Suzhou with Lai Da's two sons and the two secretaries, Shan Pingren and Bu Guxiu. We’re going to hire instructors, buy girl actresses and musical instruments and costumes there. He told me to let you know.” Jia Lian looked quizzically at the young man and asked, “Are you sure you're up to it? This may not be a big job, but there should be plenty of perks if you know the ropes.” “I shall have to learn,” was Jia Qiang's cheerful reply.
--[[User:Shu Lin|Shu Lin]] ([[User talk:Shu Lin|talk]]) 05:47, 14 June 2021 (UTC)

=Shū Lín 舒琳=
贾蓉在身傍灯影下悄拉凤姐的衣襟，凤姐会意，因笑道：“你也太操心了，
难道大爷比咱们还不会用人？偏你又怕他不在行了。谁都是在行的？孩子们
已长的这么大了，‘没吃过猪肉，也看见过猪跑’。大爷派他去，原不过是个坐
蠢旗儿，难道认真的叫他去讲价钱会经纪呢！依我说，很好。”贾琏道：“自然是这样。并不是我要驳回，少不得替他筹算筹算。”因问：“这一项银子动那一处的？贾蔷道：“刚才也议到这里。赖爷爷说，竟不用从京里带银子去，江南甄家还收着我们五万银子。明儿写一封书信会票我们带去，先支三万两，剩二万存
着，等置办彩灯花烛并各色帘帜帐幔的使用。”贾琏点头道“这个主意好。”凤
姐忙向贾蔷道：“既这样，我有两个在行妥当人，你就带他们去办，这个便宜了你呢。”

Chia Jung was standing next to lady Feng， out of the light of the lamp， and stealthily pulled the lapel of her dress. Lady Feng understood the hint， and putting on a smiling expression， "You are too full of fears！" she interposed. "Is it likely that our uncle Chen doesn't， after all， know better than we do what men to employ， that you again give way to apprehensions that he isn't up to the mark！ but who are those who are， in every respect， up to the mark？ These young fellows have grown up already to this age， and if they haven't eaten any pork， they have nevertheless seen a pig run. If Mr. Chen has deputed him to go， he is simply meant to sit under the general's standard； and do you imagine， forsooth， that he has， in real earnest， told him to go and bargain about the purchase money， and to interview the brokers himself？ My own idea is that （the choice） is a very good one."

"Of course it is！" observed Chia Lien； "but it isn't that I entertain any wish to be factious； my only object is to devise some plan or other for him. Whence will，" he therefore went on to ask， "the money required for this purpose come from？"

"A little while ago the deliberations reached this point，" rejoined Chia Se； "and Mr. Lai suggested that there was no necessity at all to take any funds from the capital， as the Chen family， in Chiang Nan， had still in their possession Tls. 50，000 of our money. That he would to-morrow write a letter of advice and a draft for us to take along， and that we should， first of all， obtain cash to the amount of Tls. 30，000， and let the balance of Tls. 20，000 remain over， for the purchase of painted lanterns， and coloured candles， as well as for the outlay for every kind of portieres， banners， curtains and streamers."

Chia Lien nodded his head. "This plan is first-rate！" he added.

"Since that be so，" observed lady Feng， as she addressed herself to Chia Se， "I've two able and reliable men； and if you would take them with you， to attend to these matters， won't it be to your convenience？"--[[User:Shu Lin|Shu Lin]] ([[User talk:Shu Lin|talk]]) 09:11, 27 March 2021 (UTC)

lady Feng → Lady Phoenix
the lapel of her dress → the corner of her dress?
to devise some plan or other for him → to devise some plans or some other things for him
Whence will，" he therefore went on to ask， "the money required for this purpose come from？" → he therefore went on to ask, “Where did the money come from?”--[[User:Su Xiao|Su Xiao]] ([[User talk:Su Xiao|talk]]) 05:52, 31 March 2021 (UTC)

=Sū Xiāo 苏潇=
贾蔷忙陪笑道：“正要和婶娘讨两个人呢，这可巧了。”因问名字。凤姐便问赵嬷嬷。彼时赵嬷嬷已听话听呆了，平儿忙笑推他，才醒悟过来，忙说：“一个叫赵天梁，一个叫赵天栋。”凤姐道：“可别忘了，我干我的去了。”说着便出去了。贾蓉忙跟出来，悄悄的向凤姐道：“婶娘要什么东西，吩咐了开个账儿给我兄弟带去。按账置办了来。”凤姐笑道：“别放你娘的屁！我的东西还没处撂呢，希罕你们鬼鬼祟祟的。”说着，一径去了。

这里贾蔷也是问贾琏：“要什幺东西？顺便织来孝敬。”贾琏笑道：“你别兴头。才学着办事，到先学会了这把戏。短了什么，少不得写信来告诉你，且不要论到这里。”说毕，打发他二人去了。接着回事的人不止三四起，贾琏乏了，便传与二门上，一应不许传报，俱待明日料理。凤姐至三更时分方下来安歇。一宿无话。

Jia Qiang laughed and said, "I'm going to beg for two people from you, my aunt. What a coincidence! " Then he asked for their names, and Lady Phoenix asked Nannie Zhao. At that time, Nannie Zhao had listened to them for a long time and started to mind-wander. Patience hurriedly pushed her with a laugh. Then she came to her mind and said, "One is Zhao Tianliang and the other is Zhao Tiandong." Lady Phoenix said, "Don't forget, and I'm going to do my job." Then she went out. Jia Rong hurried out and whispered to Lady Phoenix, "If you want anything, just give me an order to take it to my brother. I will buy it for you on account." Lady Phoenix smiled: "No bull shit! I don't have my things in place yet and I don’t care about your sneaky stuff." Saying so, she went away.
Here Jia Qiang also asked Jia Lian, "What do you want? I’ll provide them for you in passing to express my honor to you."Jia Lian smiled and said, "Don't be overexcited. You are still learn how to do things, but you learn the trick first. She will write to you if she lacks of something, so don’t talk about it here." Having said this, he sent them both away. Then there were more than three or four people coming to reply. Being tired, he passed it on to the porters, saying that anything should not be passed on and all should be treated tomorrow. Lady Phoenix came down to rest until the three-shift. They spent the night in silence.
--[[User:Su Xiao|Su Xiao]] ([[User talk:Su Xiao|talk]]) 17:23, 30 March 2021 (UTC)

=Tāng Huì 汤惠=
次早贾琏起来，见过贾赦贾政，便往宁国府中来，合同老管事人等，并几位世变门下清客相公，审察两府地方，缮画省亲殿宇，一面参度办理人丁。自此后，各行匠役齐全，金银铜锡以及土木砖瓦之物，搬运移送不歇。先令匠役拆宁府会芳园墙垣楼阁，直接入荣府东大院中。荣府东边所有下人一带群房已尽拆去。当日宁荣二宅，虽有一条小巷界断不通，然这小巷亦系私地，并非官道，故可以联络。会芳园本是从北墙角下引来一股活水，今亦无烦再引。其山树木石虽不敷用，贾赦住的乃是荣府旧园，其中竹树山石以及亭榭栏杆等物，皆可挪就
前来。如此两处又甚近，凑来一处，省许多财力，纵有不敷，所添有限。全亏一个胡老名公，号山子野，一一筹画起造。
The next morning, after calling on Pardon Merchant and Master Merchant, Romance Merchant went to the Ning Mansion. With some old stewards, secretaries and friends he inspected the grounds of both mansions, drew plans for the palaces for the Imperial visit and estimated the number of workers required. After that, all the workers were assembled, and loads of supplies were bought to the site: gold, silver, copper and tin, earth, timber,bricks and tiles. Jia Lian ordered the workers to first pull down the walls and pavilions of the Garden of Concentrated Fragrance in the Ning Mansion to connect it with the large eastern court of the Rong Mansion; and all the servants’ rooms were demolished. Formerly a small alley had separated the two houses, but since this was private property and not a public road the mansions of both could contact each other. As there had been a stream ran from the northern corner of the Garden of Concentrated Fragrance, there was no need to bring in another. And though there were not enough rocks or trees, the bamboos, trees and rocks as well as the pavilions and balustrades in the original garden of Rong Mansion where Jia She lived before could bring here. The proximity of the two mansions made amalgamation easy, in addition to saving much labor and expense. On the whole, not too many new features had to be added. The whole was designed by an old landscape gardener known as Gardener Ye.

The next morning, after calling on Pardon Merchant and Master Merchant, Romance Merchant went to the Ning Mansion. With some old stewards, secretaries and friends he inspected the grounds of both mansions, drew plans for the palaces for the Imperial visit and estimated the number of workers required. After that, all the workers were assembled, and loads of supplies were bought to the site: gold, silver, copper and tin, earth, timber,bricks and tiles. Romance Merchant ordered the workers to first pull down the walls and pavilions of the Garden of Concentrated Fragrance in the Ning Mansion to connect it with the large eastern court of the Rong Mansion; and all the servants’ rooms were demolished. Formerly a small alley had separated the two houses, but since this was private property and not a public road the mansions of both could contact each other. As there had been a stream ran from the northern corner of the Garden of Concentrated Fragrance, there was no need to bring in another. There were not enough rocks, trees, bamboos, as well as the pavilions and balustrades in the original garden of Rong Mansion where Pardon Merchant lived before could bring here. The proximity of the two mansions made amalgamation easy, in addition to saving much labor and expense. On the whole, not too many new features had to be added. The whole was designed by an old landscape gardener known as Gardener Wild.

--[[User:Tang Qizhou|Tang Qizhou]] ([[User talk:Tang Qizhou|talk]]) 12:09, 29 March 2021 (UTC)

=Táng Qǐzhōu 唐启洲 Mr.=
贾政不惯于俗务，只凭贾赦、贾珍、贾琏、赖大、来升、林之孝、吴新登、吴新登、詹光、程日兴等几人安插摆布。堆山凿池，起楼竖阁，种竹栽花，一应点景，又有山子野制度，下朝闲暇，不过各处看望看望，最要紧处和贾赦等商议商议便罢了。贾赦只在家高卧，有芥豆之事，贾珍等或自去回明，或写略节，或有话说，便传呼贾琏赖大等来领命。贾蓉单管打造金银器皿。贾蔷已起身往姑苏去了。贾珍赖大等又点人丁，开册籍，监工等事。一笔不能写到，不过是是喧阗热闹而已。暂且无话。

且说宝玉近因家中有这等大事，贾政不来问他的书，心中自是畅快；无奈秦钟之病，日重一日，也着实悬心，不能快乐。这日一早起来，才梳洗了，意欲回了贾母去望候秦钟，忽见茗烟在二门照壁前探头缩脑，宝玉忙出来问他：“做什么？”

Master Merchant was not accustomed to trifles, leaving all of the affairs to Pardon Merchant, Treasure Merchant, Romance Merchant, Big Rely, Come Rise, Filial Piety Forest, Ascend Proper Wu, Light Zhan, Daily Proper Cheng and several others. To heap up rockeries, to dig ponds, to build up buildings and halls, to plant bamboos and flowers, everything connected with improving the scenery was arranged by them. Moreover, with the help of Gardener Wild, he only needed to hang around to give a look after leaving the court, and discuss the most important issues with Pardon Merchant and others. Pardon Merchant only have to lay in the house because Treasure Merchant would go and check any tiny problems, either to report it in person or to write it down for him. Or if he had anything to say, he would call for Romance Merchant, Big Rely and others to receive orders. Prosperity Merchant was only in charge of making gold and silver containers. Rose Merchant had already gone to Suzhou. While for Treasure Merchant, Big Rely, and the rest, they were asked to call out the roll with the names of the workmen, to oversee the works, and so many other trifles that caused bustle and stir.

Master Merchant hadn't come to check the study of Precious Jade, which made him happy and relieved. However, considering the worsening health of Clock Qin, he felt uneasy at the same time. Waking up early this day, after washing his face and combing his hair, Precious Jade was panning to request Grandma Merchant's permission for visiting Clock Qin when he noticed Tealeaf peeping from the curtain-wall at the second gate. He stepped up hurriedly and asked what she was doing.
--[[User:Tang Qizhou|Tang Qizhou]] ([[User talk:Tang Qizhou|talk]]) 06:18, 26 March 2021 (UTC)--[[User:Tang Qizhou|Tang Qizhou]] ([[User talk:Tang Qizhou|talk]]) 13:42, 26 April 2021 (UTC)

Master Merchant was not accustomed to trifles, leaving all affairs to Pardon Merchant, Treasure Merchant, Romance Merchant, Big Rely, Come Rise, Filial Piety Forest, Ascend Proper Wu, Light Zhan, Daily Proper Cheng and several others. To heap up rockeries, to dig ponds, to build up buildings and halls, to plant bamboos and flowers, everything connected with improving the scenery was arranged by them. Moreover, with the help of Gardener Wild, he only needed to hang around to give a look after leaving the court, and discuss the most important issues with Pardon Merchant and others. Pardon Merchant only have to lay in the house because Treasure Merchant would go and check any tiny problem, either to report it in person or to write it down . Or if he had anything to say, he would call for Romance Merchant, Big Rely and others to receive orders. Prosperity Merchant was only in charge of making gold and silver containers. Rose Merchant had already set for Suzhou. While for Treasure Merchant, Big Rely, and the rest, they were asked to call out the roll with the names of the workmen, to oversee the works, and so many other trifles that caused bustle and stir.

Recently, because of such a big event at home,Master Merchant had no time to check the study of Precious Jade, which made him happy and relieved. However, considering the worsening health of Clock Qin, he felt uneasy at the same time. Waking up early this day, after washing his face and combing his hair, Precious Jade was panning to request Grandma Merchant's permission for visiting Clock Qin when he noticed Tealeaf peeping from the curtain-wall at the second gate. He stepped up hurriedly and asked what she was doing. --[[User:Teng Bixia|Teng Bixia]] ([[User talk:Teng Bixia|talk]]) 11:42, 27 April 2021 (UTC)

=Téng Bìxiá 滕璧霞=
茗烟道：“秦相公不中用了！”宝玉听了，吓了一跳，忙问道：“我昨儿才瞧了他还明明白白，怎么就不中用了？”茗烟道：“我也不知道，刚才是他家的老头子特来告诉我的。”宝玉听了，忙转身回明贾母，贾母吩咐派妥当人跟去，“到那里尽一尽同窗之情就回来，不许多耽搁了。

宝玉忙出来更衣。到外边，车犹未备，急的满厅乱转，一时催促的车到，忙
上了车，李贵茗烟等跟随。来到秦家门首，悄无一人，遂蜂拥至内室，唬的毒钟
的两个远房婶母并几个弟兄都藏之不迭。

此时秦钟已发过两三次昏了，已易箦多时矣。宝玉一见便不禁失声。李
贵忙劝道：“不可，不可，秦相公是弱症，未免炕上挺扛的骨头不受用，所以暂且挪下来松散些。哥儿如此，岂不反添了他的病？”

Tealeaf said:" Childe Qin is dying!" Hearing it, Precious Jade was so startled that he was rushed to asked:" he looked healthy yesterday, what is up to him?" "I do not know, ether. it is one of his sevants who exclusively told me this just now." Tealeaf said. On knowing it, Precious Jade hurridly came back to tell Grandma Merchant. And later, Grandma Merchant ordered servants to accompany Precious Jade. “When getting there, you should just express your friendship to schoolmates and came back without much delay”Grandma Merchant told him.Precious Jade quickly got dressed. Finding the carrige had not been prepared outside, he was anxious to turn around the full hall. When the carrige that he urged arrived, he got on quickly, followed by Expensive Gift and Tealeaf. Arriving at the door of Qin’s house, he found there was no one, and then flocked to the inner room, which frightened Qin`s two distant aunts and a few brothers to rush away.At this time, Clock Qin had been fainted two or three times, and also been unconscious for a long time. Precious Jade couldn't help but lost his voice at first sight. Expensive Gift persuaded him:"No, no, Childe Qin is too weak to use the stiff bones on the bed. So he is removed and loosened . Would not it aggravate his illness if you do like this?--[[User:Teng Bixia|Teng Bixia]] ([[User talk:Teng Bixia|talk]]) 11:26, 27 April 2021 (UTC)

Tealeaf said:" Qin Zhong is dying!" Hearing it, Precious Jade was so startled that he was rushed to asked:" he looked healthy yesterday, what is up to him?" "I do not know, ether. it is one of his sevants who exclusively told me this just now." Tealeaf said. On knowing it, Precious Jade hurriedly came back to tell the accident to Dowager Lady Jia. And later, Dowager Lady Jia ordered servants to accompany Jade Bao. “When getting there, you should just express your friendship to schoolmates and then came back without much delay.”Dowager Lady Jia told him.
Precious Jade quickly got dressed. Finding the carrige had not been prepared outside, he was anxious to go around and around in the hall. When the carrige that he urged arrived, he got on quickly, followed by Li Guiming and Tealeaf. Arriving at the door of Qin’s house, he found there was no one, and then flocked to the inner room, which frightened Qin`s two distant aunts and a few brothers to rush away.
At this time, Qin Zhong had been fainted two or three times, and also been unconscious for a long time. Precious Jade couldn't help but lose his voice at first sight. Li Gui persuaded him:"No, no, please don't. Qin Zhong is too weak to use the stiff bones on the bed. So he is removed and loosened . Would not it aggravate his illness if you do like this?
--[[User:Wang Chuyi|Wang Chuyi]] ([[User talk:Wang Chuyi|talk]]) 05:37, 31 March 2021 (UTC)

=Wáng Chǔyí 王楚仪=
宝玉听了，方忍住近前，见秦钟面如白蜡，合目呼吸，转展枕上。宝玉忙叫道：‘鲸哥！宝玉来了。”连叫了两三声，秦钟不睬。宝玉又叫道：“宝玉来了。”

那秦钟早已魂魄离身，只剩得一口悠悠余气在胸，正见许多鬼判持牌提索
来捉他。那秦钟魂魄那里肯就去？又记念着家中无人掌着家务，又记挂着智能
尚无下落，因此百般求告鬼判。无奈这些鬼判都不肯徇私，反叱咤秦钟道：“亏
你还是读过书的人，岂不知俗语说的：‘阎王叫你三更死，谁敢留人到五更。’我们阴间上下都是铁面无私的，不比阳间瞻情顾意，有许多关碍处。”

正闹着，那秦钟魂魄忽听见“宝玉来了”四字，便忙又央求道：“列位神差略慈悲，让我回去，和一个好朋友说一句话，就来了。”众鬼道：“又是什么好朋友？”秦钟道：“不瞒列位，就是荣国公孙子，小名宝玉的。”

Precious Jade listened and stopped crying. He came up to Qin Zhong, seeing his Zhong's face as white as wax. Qin Zhong closed his eyes and breathe weakly and tossed himself on the bed. Precious Jade hurriedly shouted: “Brother Jing! I’m here.” He shouted several times but Qin Zhong still didn't respond to him. Precious Jade cried again: "Me, Precious Jade, is here.” Qin Zhong’s soul had already left and he could only live for a while. Many ghost judges were holding licenses to catch him. How would Qin Zhong's soul like to leave? He was worrying that there would be no one in charge of the house and that there was still no Sapientia’s whereabouts. So Qin Zhong pleaded with the ghost judges in various ways. But these ghost judges were not willing to favor him. Instead, they scolded him: "You are still an educated person. Don't you know that an old saying goes:’ If Satan wants you to die at 3 o'clock, who dares to keep you alive till 5 o'clock.’ Here, We are all selfless instead of sentimental like the earthly realms which would cause much trouble to business. "When they were discussing, Qin Zhong suddenly heard someone say"Precious Jade has been here", and he hurriedly begged: "Could someone show a little mercy to me and let me go back to say something to a good friend, and then I will come back." They asked: "Who?" Qin Zhong replied, "To tell the truth, it's just the grandson of Duke of Honor Mansion. His nickname is Precious Jade."

Precious Jade listened and stopped crying. He came up to Qin Zhong, finding that his face was as white as wax. Qin Zhong closed his eyes and breathed weakly and tossed himself on the bed. Precious Jade hurriedly shouted: “Brother Whale! Precious Jade is coming.” He shouted several times but Qin Zhong still didn't respond to him. Precious Jade cried again: "Me, Precious Jade, is here.” Qin Zhong’s soul had already left and he could only live for a while. He saw that many ghost judges were holding licenses and ropes to catch him. How unwillingly could his soul follow the ghosts? He was worrying that there would be no one in charge of the house and that there was still no Sapientia’s whereabouts, so he spared no efforts to plead with the ghost judges for not taking away his soul. But these ghost judges were not willing to favor him. Instead, they scolded him: "Your books had been read for nothing. Don't you know that an old saying goes:’ If Yama wants you to die at 3 o'clock, who dares to keep you alive till 5 o'clock?’ Here, in the underworld, we are all untouchable rather than playing friendly like you people in the upper world, which would cause much trouble to our work. "When they were in a stalemate, Qin Zhong suddenly heard someone say"Precious Jade is coming", and he hurriedly begged: "Could anyone show little mercy to me and let me go back to say something to a good friend, and then I will come back." They asked: "Who?" Qin Zhong replied, "To tell the truth, it's just the grandson of Duke of Rong Mansion. And his nickname is Precious Jade. —[[User:Wang Jingyi|Wang Jingyi]] ([[User talk:Wang Jingyi|talk]]) 05:23, 31 March 2021 (UTC)

Precious Jade listened and stopped crying. He came up to Clock Qin, seeing his Zhong's face as white as wax. Clock Qin closed his eyes and breathe weakly and tossed himself on the bed. Precious Jade hurriedly shouted: “Brother Jing! I’m here.” He shouted several times but Clock Qin still didn't respond to him. Precious Jade cried again: "Me, Precious Jade, is here.” Clock Qin’s soul had already left and he could only live for a while. Many ghost judges were holding licenses to catch him. How would Clock Qin's soul like to leave? He was worrying that there would be no one in charge of the house and that there was still no Sapientia’s whereabouts. So Clock Qin pleaded with the ghost judges in various ways. But these ghost judges were not willing to favor him. Instead, they scolded him: "You are still an educated person. Don't you know that an old saying goes:’ If Satan wants you to die at 3 o'clock, who dares to keep you alive till 5 o'clock.’ Here, We are all selfless instead of sentimental like the earthly realms which would cause much trouble to business. "When they were discussing, Clock Qin suddenly heard someone say"Precious Jade has been here", and he hurriedly begged: "Could someone show a little mercy to me and let me go back to say something to a good friend, and then I will come back." They asked: "Who?" Clock Qin replied, "To tell the truth, it's just the grandson of Duke of Rong Mansion. His nickname is Precious Jade."
--[[User:Wang Chuyi|Wang Chuyi]] ([[User talk:Wang Chuyi|talk]]) 16:56, 27 April 2021 (UTC)

=Wáng Jìngyí 王静怡=
都判官听了，先就唬慌起来，忙喝骂鬼使道：“我说你们放了他回去走走罢，你们断不依我的话，如今等的请出个运旺时盛的人才罢。”众鬼见都判如此，也皆忙了手脚，一面又抱怨道：“你老人家先是那等‘雷霆火炮’，原来见不得‘宝玉’二字。依我们愚见，他是阳，我们是阴，怕他亦无益于我们。”毕竟秦钟死活如何，且听下回分解。

◎第十七回大观园试才题对额荣国府归省庆元宵

话说秦钟既死，宝玉痛哭不止，李贵等好容易劝解半日方住，归时还带余
哀。贾母帮了几十两银子，外又另备奠仪，宝玉去吊丧。七日后便送殡掩埋了，
别无记述。只有宝玉日日感悼，思念不已，然亦无可如何了。又不知过了几时
才罢。

Judge Du heard that, scared and panicked, yelling at ghosts:” I said that you should have released him back to the upper world but you did not follow my suggestion. Now, it is so “lucky” for you to invite a fortunate man who can overpower all of you.” The ghosts observed the behavior of Judge Du and then all were frantic, but at the same time they complained:” You are used to be somebody as if you had the power of thunderbolt and artillery. Unexpectedly, you fear these two characters--- Precious Jade. In our stupid opinions, he is in the upper world while we are in the low world. It is also of no benefit for us to fear him.” All in all, whether Qin Zhong died or not needs to be stated in the next chapter.

Chapter 17 Selected Masters by Inscribing the Couplets in the Grand View Garden Visited Parents to celebrating the Lantern Festival in the Rong Mansion

After Qin Zhong’s death, Precious Jade kept weeping bitterly. Li Gui and other people tried so hard that they comforted Precious Jade for a half day. But he still felt sorrowful endlessly. Dowager Lady Jia helped with dozen 500 grams of silver and prepared for the memorial ceremony. Then Precious Jade went there condoling with him. After seven days, Precious Jade with others attended the funeral and buried Qin Zhong without other records. Only Precious Jade were mournful and wailful almost every day, missing Qin Zhong heavily. But he could do nothing to change the fact Qin Zhong had died. Not knowing the end of his sadness.--[[User:Wang Jingyi|Wang Jingyi]] ([[User talk:Wang Jingyi|talk]]) 16:17, 27 March 2021 (UTC)

=Wáng Qìnyú 王沁瑜=
这日贾珍等来回贾政：“园内工程俱已告竣，大老爷已瞧过了，只等老爷瞧
了，或有不妥之处，再行改造，好题匾额对联的。”贾政听了，沉思一会，说道：“这匾对倒是一件难事。论礼该请贵妃赐题才是，然贵妃若不亲观其景，亦难悬拟；若直待贵妃游幸时再请题，若大景致，若干亭榭，无宇标题，任是花柳山水，也断不能生色。”

众清客在旁笑答道：“老世翁所见极是。如今我们有个主意：各处匾对断
不可少，亦断不可定。如今且按其景致，或两字、三字、四字，虚合其意拟了来，
暂且做出灯匾联悬了，待贵妃游幸时，再请定名，岂不两全？”贾政听了道：“所见不差。我们今日且看看去，只管题了，若妥使用；若不妥，将雨村请来，令他再拟。”众人笑道：“老爷今日一拟定佳，何必又待雨村。”
Some time later Jia Zhen came to report to Jia Zheng that the work on the new garden had been completed and Jia She had inspected it. “All is ready for you to look over, sir,” he announced. “If there is anything unsuitable, we can have it changed before the inscriptions for different places are chosen.”Jia Zheng reflected for a while, then said, “The inscriptions do present a problem. By rights, we should ask the Imperial Consort to do us the honour of composing them, but she can hardly do this without having seen the place.

“You are absolutely right, sir,” agreed his cultured companions. “I have an idea,” said one. “The inscriptions for different places can’t be dispensed with, but neither can they be fixed in advance.Why not briefly prepare some tentative couplets and names to suit each place? We can have them painted on lanterns in the shape of plaques and scrolls for the time being. Then, when Her Highness favours us with a visit, we can ask her to decide on permanent names. Wouldn’t this be a way out of the dilemma?”“A sound idea,” agreed Jia Zheng. “Let us have a look round then today and think up some inscriptions. If suitable, they can be used; if unsuitable, we can ask Jia Yucun over to help.”“Your suggestions are bound to be excellent, sir,” they countered. “Why need we call in Yucun?”

Some time later Cousin Zhen came to report to Master Merchant that the work on the new garden had been completed and he had inspected it. “All is ready for you to look over, sir,” he announced. “If there is anything unsuitable, we can have it changed before the inscriptions for different places are chosen.”Master Merchant reflected for a while, then said, “The inscriptions do present a problem. By rights, we should ask the Imperial Consort to do us the honour of composing them, but she can hardly do this without having seen the place.

“You are absolutely right, sir,” agreed his cultured companions. “I have an idea,” said one. “The inscriptions for different places can’t be dispensed with, but neither can they be fixed in advance.Why not briefly prepare some tentative couplets and names to suit each place? We can have them painted on lanterns in the shape of plaques and scrolls for the time being. Then, when Her Highness favours us with a visit, we can ask her to decide on permanent names. Wouldn’t this be a way out of the dilemma?”“A sound idea,” agreed Master Merchant. “Let us have a look round then today and think up some inscriptions. If suitable, they can be used; if unsuitable, we can ask Rainvillage Merchant over to help.”“Your suggestions are bound to be excellent, sir,” they countered. “Why need we call in Rainvillage?”--[[User:Wang Qinyu|Wang Qinyu]] ([[User talk:Wang Qinyu|talk]]) 05:21, 28 April 2021 (UTC)

Some time later Treasure Merchant came to report to Master Merchant that the work on the new garden had been completed and Pardon Merchant had inspected it. “All is ready for you to look over, sir,” he announced. “If there is anything unsuitable, we can have it changed before the inscriptions for different places are chosen.” Master Merchant reflected for a while, then said, “The inscriptions do present a problem. By rights, we should ask the Imperial Consort to do us the honour of composing them, but she can hardly do this without having seen the place.
--[[User:Wang Zihan|Wang Zihan]] ([[User talk:Wang Zihan|talk]]) 08:54, 9 June 2021 (UTC)

=Wáng Zǐhán 王子涵=
贾政笑道：“你们不知，我自幼于花鸟山水题咏上就平平；如今上了年纪，且案牍劳烦，于这怡情悦性的文章上更生疏了。纵拟出来，不免迂腐古板，反使花柳园亭因而减色，转没意思。”众清客道：“这也无妨。我们大家看了公拟，各举所长，优则存之，劣则删之，未为不可。”贾政道：“此论极是。且喜今日天气和暖，大家去逛逛。”说着，起身引众人前往。贾珍先去园中知会众人。

可巧近日宝玉因思念秦钟，忧伤不已，贾母常命人带他到新园中来戏耍。
此时亦才进去，忽见贾珍来了，向他笑道：“你还不快出去，一会儿老爷来了。”宝玉听了，带着奶娘小厮们，一溜烟就出园来。方转过弯，顶头看见贾政引着众人来了，躲之不及，只得一旁站了。贾政近因闻得塾师称赞他专能对对，虽不喜读书，偏有些歪才，所以此时便命他跟入园中，意欲试他一试。宝玉未知何意，只得随往。
Frankly, I was never a good hand even in my young days at writing verse about nature — flowers, birds and scenery. Now that I’m old and burdened with official duties I’ve quite lost the light touch required for belles-lettres. Any efforts of mine would undoubtedly be so clumsy and pedantic that they would fail to bring out the garden’s beauty: they might even have the opposite effect.” “Have no fears about that,” his secretaries assured him. “We can put our wits together. If each of us uses his ingenuity and we then choose the best suggestions, discarding the rest, we should be able to manage.” “Very well. Luckily it’s a fine day for a stroll.” Jia Zheng rose to his feet and set off at the head of the party, while Jia Zhen went on in advance to let everyone in the garden know they were coming.
It so happened that Baoyu had just arrived in the garden. For he was still grieving so much over Qin Zhong’s death that the Lady Dowager often told his servants to take him there to distract him.
Jia Zhen, coming upon him, warned him jokingly, “You’d better clear out! Lord Zheng is on his way here.” Baoyu rushed out like a streak of smoke, with his nurse and pages behind him. But just round the corner he ran into Jia Zheng’s party. Since escape was impossible, Baoyu stepped to one side. Now Jia Zheng had recently heard Baoyu’s tutor speak highly of his skill in composing couplets, remarking that the boy, though not studious, showed considerable originality. Having happened upon him like this, Jia Zheng ordered his son to accompany them. Baoyu had to comply, not knowing what his father wanted.--[[User:Wang Zihan|Wang Zihan]] ([[User talk:Wang Zihan|talk]]) 08:49, 9 June 2021 (UTC)

“It’s not a big deal,” his secretaries assured him. “Why not put our wits together. If each of us uses his ingenuity and we then choose the best suggestions, discarding the rest, we should be able to manage.” “Very well. Luckily it’s a fine day for a stroll.” Master Jia rose to his feet and set off at the head of the party, while Cousin Zhen went on in advance to let everyone in the garden know they were coming. It so happened that Precious Jade had just arrived in the garden. —[[User:Wu Siyi|Wu Siyi]] ([[User talk:Wu Siyi|talk]]) 07:17, 31 March 2021 (UTC)

=Wǔ Sīyí 伍斯仪=
刚至园门，只见贾珍带领许多执事旁边侍立。贾政道：“你且把园门闭了，
我们先瞧外面，再进去。”贾珍命人将门关上，贾政先秉正看门，只见正门五间，
上面筒瓦泥鳅脊；那门栏窗槅，俱是细雕时新花样，并无朱粉涂饰；一色水磨群
墙，下面白石台阶，凿成西番花样。左右一望，皆雪白粉墙，下面虎皮石，随意乱砌，自成纹理，不落富丽俗套，自是喜欢。遂命开门，只见一带翠嶂挡在面前。
众清客都道：“好山，好山！”贾政道：“非此一山，一进来园中所有之景悉入目中，则有何趣？”众人都道：“极是。非胸中大有丘壑，焉能想到这里。”

说毕，往前一望，见白石岐嶒，或如鬼怪，或似猛兽,纵横拱立；上面苔藓斑驳，或藤萝掩映，其中微露羊肠小径。贾政道：“我们就从此小径游去，回来由那一边出去,方可遍览。”说毕，命贾珍前导,自己扶了宝玉，逶迤各階層走山口。
At the entrance to the garden, they found Cousin Zhen with a group of stewards waiting on the sidelines.“Close the gate,” said Master Jia. “Let us see what it looks like from outside before we go in.” Cousin Zhen asked people to close the gate, and Master Jia inspected the gatehouse, a building in five sections with an arched roof of semi-circular tiles. The lintels and lattices, finely carved with fashionable designs, were not painted in pink; the walls were of polished bricks of a uniform color, and the white marble steps were carved with passion-flowers. Glancing from left to right, the view in sight was the whitewashed wall, and at its base was a mosaic of striped “tiger-skin” stones. The absence of vulgar ostentation pleased him. He had the gate opened and they went in, only to find their view screened by a green hill. His guests all cried, " wonderful view!" “If not for this hill,” observed Master Jia, “one would see the whole garden as soon as one entered, and how tame that would be.”“Exactly,” agreed the rest. “Only a bold landscape gardener could have conceived this.
After saying so, they looked forward.On the miniature mountain they saw rugged white rocks resembling monsters and beasts, some recumbent, some rampant, dappled with moss or hung about with creepers, a narrow zigzag path just discernible between them.“We’ll follow this path,” decided Master Jia. “Coming back we can find our way out at the other side. That should take us over the whole grounds.”Then he made Cousin Zhen lead the way and, leaning on Precious Jade's shoulder, followed him up through the boulders.

At the entrance to the garden, they found Cousin Zhen with a group of stewards waiting on the sidelines.“Close the gate,” said Master Jia. “Let us see what it looks like from outside before we go in.” Cousin Zhen asked people to close the gate, and Master Jia inspected the gatehouse, a building in five sections with an arched roof of semi-circular tiles. The lintels and lattices, finely carved with fashionable designs, were not painted in pink; the walls were of polished bricks of a uniform color, and the white marble steps were carved with passion-flowers. Glancing from left to right, the view in sight was the whitewashed wall, and at its base was a mosaic of striped “tiger-skin” stones. The absence of vulgar ostentation pleased him. He had the gate opened and they went in, only to find their view screened by a green hill. His guests all cried, " wonderful view!" “If not for this hill,” observed Master Jia, “one would see the whole garden as soon as one entered, and how tame that would be.”“Exactly,” agreed the rest. “Only a bold landscape gardener could have conceived this. After saying so, they looked forward.On the miniature mountain they saw rugged white rocks resembling monsters and beasts, some recumbent, some rampant, dappled with moss or hung about with creepers, a narrow zigzag path just discernible between them.“We’ll follow this path,” decided Master Jia. “Coming back we can find our way out at the other side. That should take us over the whole grounds.”Then he made Cousin Zhen lead the way and, leaning on Precious Jade's shoulder, followed him up through the boulders.—[[User:Wu Siyi|Wu Siyi]] ([[User talk:Wu Siyi|talk]]) 04:45, 28 April 2021 (UTC)

=Wú Xīnxīn 吴欣欣=
抬头忽见山上有镜面白石一块，正是迎面留题处。贾政回头笑道：“诸公请看，此处题以何名方妙？”众人听说，也有说该题“叠翠”二字的，也有说该题“锦嶂”的，又有说“赛香炉”的，又有说“小终南”的，种种名色，不止十几个。原来众客心中，早知贾政要试宝玉的才，故此只将些俗套来敷衍。宝玉也知此意。

贾政听了，便回头命宝玉拟来。宝玉道：“尝听见古人云：‘编新不如述旧，
刻古终胜雕今。’况此处并非主山正景，原无可题之处，不过是探景一进步耳。
莫如直书古人‘曲径通幽’这旧句在上，倒也大方。”众人听了，赞道：“是极，妙极！二世兄天分高，才情远，不似我们读腐了书的。”贾政笑道：“不当过奖他。他年小的人，不过以一知充十用，取笑罢了。再俟选拟。”

Raising his head， he suddenly beheld on the hill a block of stone， as white as the surface of a looking-glass， in a site which was， in very deed， suitable to be left for an inscription， as it was bound to meet the eye.
"Gentlemen，" Master Merchant observed， as he turned his head round and smiled， "please look at this spot. What name will it be fit to give it？"
When the company heard his remark， some maintained that the two words "Heaped verdure" should be written； and others upheld that the device should be "Embroidered Hill." Others again suggested： "Vying with the Hsiang Lu；" and others recommended "the small Chung Nan." And various kinds of names were proposed， which did not fall short of several tens.
All the visitors had been， it must be explained， aware at an early period of the fact that Master Merchant meant to put Precious Jade Merchant's ability to the test， and for this reason they merely proposed a few combinations in common use. But of this intention， Precious Jade Merchant himself was likewise cognizant.
After listening to the suggestions， Master Merchant forthwith turned his head round and bade Precious Jade Merchant think of some motto.
"I've often heard，" Precious Jade Merchant replied， "that writers of old opine that it's better to quote an old saying than to compose a new one； and that an old engraving excels in every respect an engraving of the present day. What's more， this place doesn't constitute the main hill or the chief feature of the scenery， and is really no site where any inscription should be put， as it no more than constitutes the first step in the inspection of the landscape. Won't it be well to employ the exact text of an old writer consisting of 'a tortuous path leading to a secluded （nook）。' This line of past days would， if inscribed， be， in fact， liberal to boot."
After listening to the proposed line， they all sang its praise. "First-rate！ excellent！" they cried， "the natural talents of your second son， dear friend， are lofty； his mental capacity is astute； he is unlike ourselves， who have read books but are simple fools."

"You shouldn't，" urged Master Merchant smilingly， "heap upon him excessive praise； he's young in years， and merely knows one thing which he turns to the use of ten purposes； you should laugh at him， that's all； but we can by and by choose some device."

"You shouldn't，" urged Master Merchant smilingly， "heap upon him excessive praise； he's young in years， and merely knows one thing which he turns to the use of ten purposes； which were going to be laughted at， that's all； but we can by and by choose some device."--[[User:Yao Yang|Yao Yang]] ([[User talk:Yao Yang|talk]]) 16:10, 14 June 2021 (UTC)

=Yāo Yáng 么阳=
说着，进入石洞来，只见佳木茏葱，奇花烂灼，一带清流，从花木深处泻于石隙之下。再进数些，渐向北边，平坦宽豁，两边飞楼插空，雕甍绣槛，皆隐于山坳树杪之间。俯而视之，但青溪泻玉，石磴穿云，白石为栏，环抱池沼，石桥三港，兽面衔吐。桥上有亭。贾政与诸人到亭内坐了，问：“诸公以何题此？”诸人都道：‘当日欧阳公《醉翁亭记》有云：‘有亭翼然’，就名‘翼然’罢。”贾政笑道：“‘翼然’虽佳，但此亭压水而成，还须偏于水题为称。依我拙裁，欧阳公句：‘泻于两峰之间’，竟用他这一个‘泻’字。”有一客道：“是极、是极。竟是‘泻玉’二字妙。”贾政拈须寻思，因叫宝玉拟一个来。宝玉回道：“老爷方才所说已是。

Through the stone cave, There are high trees luxuriant and wonderful flowers blooming alone , from which a stripe of spring is flowing into the stone chinks. Going further towards the north, the scene becomes wider and flatter. Tall buildings with decorated ridges and carved railings are on two sides, emerging in the forests and dales. Look down. What in your sight are jade fragments spattering on green streams; stone steps are cuting into the clouds; white stones are taken as banisters which surrounding pools and lakes; the stone bridge has three ports shaped like beast's mouth. On the bridge are a single pavilion. They come and sit in. Jia Zheng asks: “ What will you inscribe here？” Others say :“In Ouyang Xiu's The Roadside Hut of the Old Drunkard， it is written that ‘A hut with spreading roof which seems to fly’, how about ‘Flying’?” Jia Zheng smiles:“Sounds good, but this pavilion beside the stream, we should name it about water. In my poor opinion, Ouyang's another sentence is suitable, that is ‘cascading between two peaks’. What about ‘cascade’?” One says :“Great! yah, it cannot be better to use ‘cascading jades’.” Jia Zheng thinks a while, then ask Baoyu give an advice. Baoyu replys:“I have the same idea.”

Then, they entered the cave. There were high trees, luxuriant and wonderful flowers, through which a stripe of spring was flowing and falling into the stone chinks. In the further north, the scene becomes wider and flatter. Tall buildings decorated with ridges and carved railings were standing on two sides, hiding in the forests and dales. If looking down, you could see jade fragments spattering on green streams; stone steps were cutting into the clouds; white stones were taken as banisters, surrounding the pools and lakes; the stone bridge whose shape like beast’s mouth had three ports. On the bridge, there was a single pavilion. They came and sat in. Jia Zheng asked, “Waht will you inscribe here?” Others said, “ Ouyang Xiu wrote ‘A hut with spreading roof which seems to fly’ in his The Roadside Hut of the Old Drunkard. So, how about ‘Flying’?” Jia Zheng smiled and said, “Sounds good, but this pavilion is beside the stream, its name should be related to water. I would have suggested that Ouyang’s another sentence would be more suitable, that is ‘cascading between two peaks’. So how about ‘cascade’?” One said, “Terrific! Oh, it cannot be better than ‘cascading jades’.” Jia Zheng thought for a while, then asked Baoyu to give an advice. Baoyu replied, “I own the same opinion.”——[[User:Yi Mingxia|Yi Mingxia]] ([[User talk:Yi Mingxia|talk]])
Through the stone cave, There were high trees luxuriant and wonderful flowers blooming alone , from which a stripe of spring was flowing into the stone chinks. Going further towards the north, the scene became wider and flatter. Tall buildings with decorated ridges and carved railings were on two sides, emerging in the forests and dales. Look down. What in your sight were jade fragments spattering on green streams; stone steps were cuting into the clouds; white stones were taken as banisters which surrounding pools and lakes; the stone bridge had three ports shaped like beast's mouth. On the bridge were a single pavilion. They came and sat in. Master Merchant asked: “ What will you inscribe here？” Others said :“In Ouyang Xiu's The Roadside Hut of the Old Drunkard， it is written that ‘A hut with spreading roof which seems like a bird's extended wings to fly’, how about ‘Extended Wings’?” Master Merchant smiled:“Sounds good, but this pavilion beside the stream, we should name it about water. In my poor opinion, Ouyang's another sentence is suitable, that is ‘flowing between two peaks’. What about ‘flowing’?” One says :“Great! yah, it cannot be better to use ‘flowing jades’.” Master Merchant thought a while, then asked Precious Jade to give an advice. Precious Jade replied:“I have the same idea.”--[[User:Yao Yang|Yao Yang]] ([[User talk:Yao Yang|talk]]) 06:55, 27 April 2021 (UTC)

=Yì Míngxiá 易明霞=
但如今追究了去，似乎当日欧阳公题酿泉用一‘泻’字则妥，今日此泉也用‘泻’字，似乎不妥。况此处既为省亲别墅，亦当依应制之体，用此等字，亦似粗陋不雅。求再拟蕴藉古蓄者。”贾政笑道：“诸公听此论何如？方才众人编新，你说‘泻玉’二字，则不若‘沁芳’二字，岂不新雅？”贾政拈须点头不语。众人都忙迎台，称赞宝玉才情不凡。贾政道：“匾上二字容易。再作一副七言对来。”宝玉四顾一望，机上心来，乃念道：

绕堤柳借三篙翠，隔岸花分一脉香。

贾政听了，点头微笑。众人又称赞个不已。于是出亭过池，一山一石，一花一木，莫不着意观览。忽抬头见前面一带粉垣，数楹修舍，有千百竿翠竹遮映。众人都道：“好个所在！”

“However, after having a further analysis, it seems that the county commissioner Ouyang named the fermented spring with ‘Rushing’ is fine, while this spring seems not so good to be named with ‘Rushing’. Moreover, located in a noble’s villa, its name should be equal to the form of poetries or essays composed under the emperor’s order. With such a form and meaning, this name seems to be vulgar and inelegant. Thus, I hope another name containing ancient writing style will be created.” Jiazheng(Mr. Fake policy) smiled and said, “How about everybody else’s opinions about it. Other people named it just now, but you said ‘Rushing jade’ was not as good as ‘Refreshing Fragrance’. So, was because it not novel and elegant?” Jiazheng twisted his mustache, nodded and said nothing else. The surrounding people immediately pandered him by praising Baoyu’s outstanding talent. Then, Jiazheng said, “Naming just two words in this board is easy. You shall make a heptasyllabic sentence.” Baoyu looked around, got some inspiration and said,
“Willows reflected by the dyke lend three punts of verdancy; flowers sitting on either shore spare the same breath of fragrance.”
After hearing it, Jiazheng nodded and smiled; and the people greatly complimented it again. Then, they went out of the pavilion and passed the pond, meanwhile, admiring a hill, a stone, a flower or a tree there. People looking up, suddenly, a red wall appeared before them. Behind the wall, there were Lots of grand houses hiding in thousands of virid bamboo. Everybody praised, “What a wonderful place!”

“However, after having a further analysis, it seems that the county commissioner Ouyang named the Brewer’s spring with ‘spilling’ is fine, but it will be unsuitable here. Moreover, located in a noble’s villa, its name should be equal to the form of poetries or essays composed under the emperor’s order. With such a form and meaning, this name seems to be vulgar and inelegant. Thus, I hope another name containing ancient writing style will be created.”Master Merchant smiled and said, “How about everybody else’s opinions about it? When we suggest something original, he is all in favor of old quotation. But now that we are using an old quotation, he finds it too coarse. Well, what do you propose?” Master Merchant twisted his mustache, nodded and said nothing else. “Wouldn’t ‘Sweeping Fragrance’ be more original and tasteful than ‘Spilling Jade’?” The surrounding people immediately pandered him by praising Precious Jade’s outstanding talent. Then, Master Merchant said, “The selection of two words is easy. Go on and make a heptasyllabic sentence.”Precious Jade looked around, got some inspiration and said,
“Willows reflected by the dyke lend three punts of verdancy; flowers sitting on either shore spare the same breath of fragrance.”
After hearing it, Master Merchant nodded and smiled; and the people greatly complimented it again. Then, they went out of the pavilion and passed the pond, meanwhile, admiring a hill, a stone, a flower or a tree there. People looking up, suddenly, a red wall appeared before them. Behind the wall, there were Lots of grand houses hiding in thousands of virid bamboo. Everybody praised as they walked in, “What a wonderful place!”--[[User:Yuan Jing|Yuan Jing]] ([[User talk:Yuan Jing|talk]]) 14:39, 29 March 2021 (UTC)

“However, after having a further analysis, it seems that the county commissioner Ouyang named the fermented spring with ‘Rushing’ is fine, while this spring seems not so good to be named with ‘Rushing’. Moreover, located in a noble’s villa, its name should be equal to the form of poetries or essays composed under the emperor’s order. With such a form and meaning, this name seems to be vulgar and inelegant. Thus, I hope another name containing ancient writing style will be created.” Jiazheng(Mr. Fake policy) smiled and said, “How about everybody else’s opinions about it. Other people named it just now, but you said ‘Rushing jade’ was not as good as ‘Refreshing Fragrance’. So, was because it not novel and elegant?” Jiazheng twisted his mustache, nodded and said nothing else. The surrounding people immediately pandered him by praising Baoyu’s outstanding talent. Then, Jiazheng said, “Naming just two words in this board is easy. You shall make a heptasyllabic sentence.” Baoyu looked around, got some inspiration and said, “Willows reflected by the dyke lend three punts of verdancy; flowers sitting on either shore spare the same breath of fragrance.” After hearing it, Jiazheng nodded and smiled; and the people greatly complimented it again. Then, they went out of the pavilion and passed the pond, meanwhile, admiring a hill, a stone, a flower or a tree there. People looking up, suddenly, a red wall appeared before them. Behind the wall, there were Lots of grand houses hiding in thousands of virid bamboo. Everybody praised, “What a wonderful place!” ----[[User:Yi Mingxia|Yi Mingxia]] ([[User talk:Yi Mingxia|talk]])

=Yuán Jìng 袁静=
于是大家进入，只见进门便是曲折游廊，阶下石子漫成甬路；上面小小三间房舍，两明一暗，里面都是合着地步打的床几椅案。从里间房里，又有一小门，出去却是后园，有大株梨花并芭蕉，又有两问小小退步。后院墙下忽开一隙，得泉一派，开沟仅尺许，灌入墙内，绕阶缘屋至前院，盘旋竹下而出。贾政笑道：“这一处倒还好；若能月夜坐坐此窗下读书，也不枉虚生一世。”说着，便看宝玉，唬的宝玉忙垂了头，众人忙用闲话解说。又二客说：“此处的匾该题四个字。”贾政笑问：“那四个字？”一个道是：“淇水遗风。”贾政道：“俗。”又一个道是：“睢园遗迹。”贾政道：“也俗。”贾珍在旁说道：“还是宝兄弟拟一个来。”贾政道：“他未曾做，先要议论人家的好歹，可见就是个轻薄人。”众客道：“议论的极是，其奈他何。”
And they walked in. From the gate a porch twisted its way and was covered with a cobbled path below. There was a little cottage of three rooms, with two halls and one bedroom, inside which all furniture was made to fit the Measurements of rooms. Another small door in the inner room opened on to the back garden, where grew a large pear-tree, broad-leafed plantain and two tiny courts. Through a small opening on the back wall flowed a spring, ditched only a few feet, which wound past the steps and the lodge to the front court before meandering out through bamboos. Master Jia smiled, “This is a pleasant place. If one could study at this window under a moon, one would not have lived in vain.” He glanced at Precious Jade, who hung his head in confusion while others quickly changed the subject. Two of them suggested, “We need a four-character inscription here.” “What four character?” asked Master Jia. One said, “The survival of Qi River.” Master Jia replied, “It’s too commonplace.” “Traces of the Sui Garden?” “This is equally vulgar.” Treasure Merchant proposed, “Let Cousin Bao have a try.” “Before he makes any suggestion,” objected Master Jia, “the impudent fellow reviews other people’s.” Other people said, “But his comments are correct. How can you blame him?”--[[User:Yuan Jing|Yuan Jing]] ([[User talk:Yuan Jing|talk]]) 07:03, 26 March 2021 (UTC)

And they walked in. Through the gate a porch twisted its way and was followed with a cobbled path below. There was a little three cottages, with two halls and one bedroom where all furniture was made to fit the Measurements of rooms. Another small door in the inner room opened on to the back garden, where grew a large pear tree, broad-leafed plantain and two tiny courts. Through a small opening on the back wall flowed a spring, ditched only a few feet, which wound past the steps and the lodge to the front court before meandering out through bamboos. Jia Zheng smiled, “This is a pleasant place. If one could study at this window under a moon, one would not have lived in vain.” He glanced at Baoyu, who hung his head in confusion while others quickly changed the subject. Two of them suggested, “We need a four-character inscription here.” “What four character?” asked Jia Zheng. One said, “The survival of Qi River.” Jia Zheng replied, “It’s too commonplace.” “Traces of the Sui Garden.” “This is equally vulgar.” Jia Zhen proposed, “Let Cousin Bao have a try.” “He has never made any suggestion,” objected Jia Zheng, “the impudent fellow reviews other people’s.” Other people said, “But his comments are correct. How can you blame him?”--[[User:Zhao Ke|Zhao Ke]] ([[User talk:Zhao Ke|talk]]) 00:47, 27 March 2021 (UTC)

=Zhào Kē 赵轲 Mr.=
贾政忙道：“休如此纵了他。”因命他道：“今日任你狂为乱道，先说出议论来，方许你做。方才众人说的，可有使得的否？”宝玉见问，便答道：“都似不妥。”贾政冷笑道：“怎么不妥？”宝玉道：“这是第一处行幸之所，必须颂圣方可。若用四字的匾，又有古人现成的，何必再做？”贾政道：“难道‘淇水’、‘雎园’不是古人的？”宝玉道：“这太板了。莫若‘有凤来仪’四字。”众人都哄然叫妙。贾政点头道：“畜生，畜生！可谓‘管窥蠡测’矣。”因命：“再题一联来。”宝玉便念道：

宝鼎茶闲烟尚绿，幽窗棋罢指犹凉。

贾政摇头道：“也未见长。”说毕，引人出来。方欲走时，忽想起一事来，问贾珍道：“这些院落屋宇，并几案桌椅都算有了。还有那些帐幔帘子并陈设玩
器古董，可也都是一处一处合式配就的么？”

Jia Zheng said hastily,"Don't indulge him like this." Then he asked, "Now you are almost acting with craziness. You should say something out at first, and then we can allowed whether you can do it or not. What they have said can be done?" Precious Jade said, "It seems that they are all not so practical." Jia Zheng sneered, "Why?" Precious Jade said, "It is the first line of where the emperor will arrive, which means that we should praise our king. If we use four words' plaque which has been used by ancient people, why should we do it again?" Jia Zhen said, "Then are 'Qishui', 'Suiyuan' not things that belong to the pasts?" Precious Jade said, "You are too stale. Nothing better than 'A phoenix comes with grace to rest'." People around all laughed with joy, considering it was wonderful. Jia Zheng agreed and nodded,"Bed egg! That's 'restricted in view and shallow in understanding'. Can you come up with another one?" Precious Jade said,"Fenticores with the green mist and leisure tea; through peaceful windows there is someone who finishes a play of chess with cold fingers. "

Jia Zheng shaked his head, "It is not better than before." After that, he brought him out. When he was going to leave, he was remand of one thing, so he asked Jia Zhen, "There are things like chairs and tables in these houses. How about those curtains and antiques? Can it be placed one-to-one harmoniously?"--[[User:Zhao Ke|Zhao Ke]] ([[User talk:Zhao Ke|talk]]) 09:07, 26 March 2021 (UTC)

Master Merchant said hastily,"Don't indulge him like this." Then he asked, "Now you are almost acting with craziness. You should say something out at first, and then we can allowed whether you can do it or not. What they have said can be done?" Precious Jade said, "It seems that they are all not so practical." Master Merchant sneered, "Why?" Precious Jade said, "It is the first line of where the emperor will arrive, which means that we should praise our king. If we use four words' plaque which has been used by ancient people, why should we do it again?" Master Merchant said, "Then are 'Qishui', 'Suiyuan' not things that belong to the pasts?" Precious Jade said, "You are too stale. Nothing better than 'A phoenix comes with grace to rest'." People around all laughed with joy, considering it was wonderful. Master Merchant agreed and nodded,"Bed egg! That's 'restricted in view and shallow in understanding'. Can you come up with another one?" Precious Jade said,"Fenticores with the green mist and leisure tea; through peaceful windows there is someone who finishes a play of chess with cold fingers. "

Master Merchant shaked his head, "It is not better than before." After that, he brought him out. When he was going to leave, he was remand of one thing, so he asked Master Merchant, "There are things like chairs and tables in these houses. How about those curtains and antiques? Can it be placed one-to-one harmoniously?"--[[User:Zhao Ke|Zhao Ke]] ([[User talk:Zhao Ke|talk]]) 13:30, 26 April 2021 (UTC)

20210414 culture

2021-06-14T16:05:26Z

Yao Yang: /* Wú Xīnxīn 吴欣欣 */

Homework 7 from Apr 7 for Apr 14, 2021

Quicklinks: [[Foundations_of_Chinese_Cultures_2021|Course Homepage]]. [[Joint_translation_terms|Joint translation terms]] Homework [[20210303_culture|1, Mar 3 Chapters 1-4]], [[20210310_culture|2, Mar 10 Chapters 6-7]], [[20210317_culture|3, Mar 17 Chapters 11-13]], [[20210324_culture|4, Mar 24 Chapters 15-17]], [[20210331_culture|5, Mar 31 Chapters 4-7]], [[20210407_culture|6, Apr 7 Chapters 8-10]], [[20210414_culture|7, Apr 14 Chapters 13-15]] , [[20210421_culture|8, Apr 21 Chapters 17-19]]etc.

'''《红楼梦》程甲本'''

Please find the most beautiful translations of names and jointly agree to use them. Please also list common terms and joint translation here:
*Jia Baoyu = Precious Jade
*Jia Yucun = Rain Village
*Lin Daiyu = Mascara Jade
*Zhen Shiyin = Hide-the-facts
*...(everybody please add more here)

=Péng Jiāyù 彭佳钰=
宝玉大不自在，争奈父女之情，也不好拦阻。于是贾母定要贾琏送他去，仍叫带回来。一应土仪盘费，不消繁说，自然要妥贴。作速择了日期，贾琏与林黛玉辞别了众人，带领仆从，登舟往扬州去了。要知端的，且听下回分解。

◎第十三回秦可卿死封龙禁尉王熙凤协理宁国府
话说凤姐儿自贾琏送黛玉往扬州去后，心中实在无趣，每到晚间，不过同平
儿说笑一回就胡乱睡了。这日夜间正和平儿灯下拥炉倦绣，早命浓熏绣被，二
人睡下，屈指算行程该到何处，不知不觉已交三鼓。平儿已睡熟了。凤姐方觉
睡眼微蒙，恍惚只见秦氏从外走进来，含笑说道：“婶婶好睡！我今日回去，你也不送我一程。因娘儿们素日相好，我舍不得婶婶，故来别你一别。还有一件心
愿未了，非告诉婶婶，别人未必中用。”

凤姐听了，恍惚问道：“有何心愿？只管托我就是了。”秦氏道：“婶婶，你是
个脂粉队里的英雄，连那些束带顶冠的男子也不能过你，你如何连两句俗语也
不晓得？常言：‘月满则亏，水满则溢’，又道是：‘登高必跌重。’如今我们家赫赫扬扬，已将百载，一日倘或‘乐极生悲’，若应了那句‘树倒猢狲散’的俗语，岂不虚称了一世诗书旧族了！”凤姐听了此话，心胸不快，十分敬畏，忙问道：“这话虑的极是，

Although Precious Jade was most upset, he could hardly come between her and her father. The Lady Dowager decided that Jia Lian should accompany her granddaughter and bring her safely back. We need not dwell on the presents and arrangements for the journey, which naturally left nothing to be desired. A day was quickly chosen on which Jia Lian and Mascara Jade took their leave of everyone and, accompanied by attendants, set sail for Yangzhou. For further details, please read the next chapter.

Chapter 13 Keqing Dies and a Captain of the Imperial Guard Is Appointed, Sister Phoenix Helps to Manage Affairs in the Ning Mansion

Sister Phoenix found life excessively dull after her husband’s departure with Mascara Jade for Yangzhou. She passed the evenings as best she could chatting with Pinger before retiring listlessly to bed. One evening, tired of embroidering, she sat nursing her hand-stove by the lamp and told the maid to warm her embroidered quilt early, after which they both went to bed. When the third watch sounded, they were still reckoning on their fingers. The stage Jia Lian must have reached on his journey. Soon after that, Pinger fell fast asleep. And Sister Phoenix eyelids were drooping drowsily when to her astonishment in came Keqing. “How you love to sleep, auntie!” cried Keqing playfully. “I’m going home today, yet you won’t even see me one stage of the way. ” “But we’ve always been so close, I couldn’t go without coming to say goodbye. Besides, there’s something I’d like done which has no use in entrusting myself to anyone else.”

“Just leave it to me,” replied Sister Phoenix, rather puzzled. “You’re such an exceptional woman, auntie, that even men in official belts and caps are no match for you. Is it possible you don’t know the saying that ‘the moon waxes only to wane, water brims only to overflow,’ and ‘the higher the climb, the harder the fall’? Our house has prospered for nearly a hundred years. If one day it happens that at the height of good fortune the ‘tree falls and the monkeys scatter’ as the old saying has it, then what will become of our cultured old family?” Quick to comprehend, Sister Phoenix was awe-struck. “Your fears are well-founded,” she said,

--[[User:Peng Jiayu|Peng Jiayu]] ([[User talk:Peng Jiayu|talk]]) 06:37, 21 April 2021 (UTC)
----
Although Precious Jade Merchant was most upset, he could hardly come between her and her father. The Splendid Phoenix King decided that Romance Merchant should accompany her granddaughter and bring her safely back. We need not dwell on the presents and arrangements for the journey, which naturally left nothing to be desired. A day was quickly chosen on which Romance Merchant and Precious Jade Merchant took their leave of everyone and, accompanied by attendants, set sail for Yangzhou. For further details, please read the next chapter.

Chapter 13 Frivolity Grain Dies and a Captain of the Imperial Guard Is Appointed, Splendid Phoenix King Helps to Manage Affairs in the Ning Mansion
Splendid Phoenix King found life excessively dull after her husband’s departure with Precious Jade Merchant for Yangzhou. She passed the evenings as best she could chatting with Patience before retiring listlessly to bed. One evening, tired of embroidering, she sat nursing her hand-stove by the lamp and told the maid to warm her embroidered quilt early, after which they both went to bed. When the third watch sounded, they were still reckoning on their fingers. The stage Romance Merchant must have reached on his journey. Soon after that, Pinger fell fast asleep. And Splendid Phoenix King eyelids were drooping drowsily when to her astonishment in came Frivolity Grain. “How you love to sleep, auntie!” cried Frivolity Grain playfully. “I’m going home today, yet you won’t even see me one stage of the way. ” “But we’ve always been so close, I couldn’t go without coming to say goodbye. Besides, there’s something I’d like done which has no use in entrusting myself to anyone else.”
“Just leave it to me,” replied Splendid Phoenix King, rather puzzled. “You’re such an exceptional woman, auntie, that even men in official belts and caps are no match for you. Is it possible you don’t know the saying that ‘the moon waxes only to wane, water brims only to overflow,’ and ‘the higher the climb, the harder the fall’? Our house has prospered for nearly a hundred years. If one day it happens that at the height of good fortune the ‘tree falls and the monkeys scatter’ as the old saying has it, then what will become of our cultured old family?” Quick to comprehend, Splendid Phoenix King was awe-struck. “Your fears are well-founded,” she said.

--[[User:Shu Lin|Shu Lin]] ([[User talk:Shu Lin|talk]]) 06:34, 14 June 2021 (UTC)

=Shū Lín 舒琳=
但有何法可以永保无虞？”秦氏冷笑道：“婶婶好痴也！‘否极泰来’，荣辱自古周而复始，岂人力所能常保的。但如今能于荣时筹画下将来衰时的世业，亦可以常永保全了。即如今日诸事俱妥，只有两件未妥，若把此事如此一行，则后日可保永全了。”

凤姐便问：“何事？”秦氏道：“目今祖茔虽四时祭祀，只是无一定的钱粮；第
二，家塾虽立，无一定的供给。依我想来，如今盛时固不缺祭祀供给，但将来败
落之时，此二项有何出处？莫若依我定见，趁今日富贵，将祖茔附近多置田庄、
房舍、地亩，以备祭祀供给之费皆出自此处，将家塾亦设于此。合同族中长幼，
大家定了则例，日后按房掌管这一年的地亩钱粮、祭祀供给之事。如此周流，又
无争竞，也设有典卖诸弊。便是有罪，己物可入官，这祭祀产业，连官也不人的。
便败落下来，子孙回家读书务农，也有个退步，祭祀又可永继。若目今以为荣华
不绝，不思后日，终非长策。眼见不日又有一件非常喜事，真是烈火烹油、鲜花
着锦之盛。要知道，也不过是瞬息的繁华，一时的欢乐，万不可忘了那‘盛筵必
散’的俗语。若不早为后虑，只恐后悔无益了。”凤姐忙问：“有何喜事？”秦氏道：“天机不可泄漏。只是我与婶婶好了一场，临别赠你两句话，须要记着。”

but what plan is there adequate to preserve it from future injury？"

"My dear sister-in-law，" rejoined Mrs. Ch'in with a sardonic smile， "you're very simple indeed！ When woe has reached its climax， weal supervenes. Prosperity and adversity， from days of yore up to the present time， now pass away， and now again revive， and how can （prosperity） be perpetuated by any human exertion？ But if now， we could in the time of good fortune， make provision against any worldly concerns， which might arise at any season of future adversity， we might in fact prolong and preserve it. Everything， for instance， is at present well-regulated； but there are two matters which are not on a sure footing， and if such and such suitable action could be adopted with regard to these concerns， it will， in subsequent days， be found easy to perpetuate the family welfare in its entity."

"What matters are these？" inquired lady Feng.

"Though at the graves of our ancestors，" explained Mrs. Ch'in， "sacrifices and oblations be offered at the four seasons， there's nevertheless no fixed source of income. In the second place， the family school is， it is true， in existence； but it has no definite grants-in-aid. According to my views， now that the times are prosperous， there's， as a matter of course， no lack of offerings and contributions； but by and bye， when reverses set in， whence will these two outlays be met from？ Would it not be as well， and my ideas are positive on this score， to avail ourselves of the present time， when riches and honours still reign， to establish in the immediate vicinity of our ancestral tombs， a large number of farms， cottages， and estates， in order to enable the expenditure for offerings and grants to entirely emanate from this source？ And if the household school were also established on this principle， the old and young in the whole clan can， after they have， by common consent， determined upon rules， exercise in days to come control， in the order of the branches， over the affairs connected with the landed property， revenue， ancestral worship and school maintenance for the year （of their respective term.） Under this rotatory system， there will likewise be no animosities； neither will there be any mortgages， or sales， or any of these numerous malpractices； and should any one happen to incur blame， his personal effects can be confiscated by Government. But the properties， from which will be derived the funds for ancestral worship， even the officials should not be able to appropriate， so that when reverses do supervene， the sons and grandsons of the family may be able to return to their homes， and prosecute their studies， or go in for farming. Thus， while they will have something to fall back upon， the ancestral worship will， in like manner， be continued in perpetuity. But， if the present affluence and splendour be looked upon as bound to go on without intermission， and with no thought for the day to come， no enduring plan be after all devised， presently， in a little while， there will， once again， transpire a felicitous occurrence of exceptional kind， which， in point of fact， will resemble the splendour of oil scorched on a violent fire， or fresh flowers decorated with brocades. You should bear in mind that it will also be nothing more real than a transient pageant， nothing but a short-lived pleasure！ Whatever you do， don't forget the proverb， that 'there's no banquet， however sumptuous， from which the guests do not disperse；' and unless you do， at an early date， take precautions against later evils， reGREt will， I apprehend， be of no avail."

"What felicitous occurrence will take place？" lady Feng inquired with alacrity.

"the decrees of Heaven cannot be divulged； but as I have been very friendly with you， sister-in-law， for so long， I will present you， before I take my leave， with two lines， which it behoves you to keep in mind，" rejoined Mrs. Ch'in，--[[User:Shu Lin|Shu Lin]] ([[User talk:Shu Lin|talk]]) 07:35, 20 April 2021 (UTC)

=Sū Xiāo 苏潇=
因念道：

三春去后诸芳尽，各自须寻各自门。

凤姐还欲问时，只听二门上传事云板连叩四下，正是丧音，将凤姐惊醒，人
回：“东府蓉大奶奶没了。”凤姐吓一身冷汗，出了一回神，只得忙穿衣往王夫人处来。彼时台府皆知，无不纳闷，都有些疑心。那长一辈的，想他素日孝顺；平辈的，想他素日知睦亲密；下一辈的，想他素日的慈爱，以及家中仆从老小，想他素日怜贫惜贱、爱老慈幼之恩，莫不悲号痛哭。

闲言少叙，却说宝玉因近日林黛玉回去，剩得自己落单，也不和人玩耍，每
到晚间，便索然睡了。如今从梦中听见说秦氏死了，连忙翻身爬起来，只觉心中
似戳了一刀的，不觉“哇”的一声，直喷出一口血来。袭人等慌慌忙忙上来扶
着，问：“是怎么样的？”又要回贾母去请大夫。宝玉道：“不用忙，不相干。这是急火攻心，血不归经。”说着便爬起来，要衣服换了，来见贾母，即时要过去。袭人见他如此，心中虽放不下，又不敢拦阻，只得由他罢了。贾母见他要去，因说：“才咽气的人，那里不干净；二则夜里风大，等明早再去不迟。”宝玉那里肯依。贾母命人备车多派跟从人役，拥护前来。

一直到了宁国府前，只见府门大开，两边灯火，照如白昼，乱烘烘人来人往。
里面哭声摇山振岳。

With that she said:
After the three months of the spring, all flowers will fade and each will have to find its own way out.
Before Sister Phoenix could ask more she was woken with a start by four blows on the chime-bar at the second gate.And a servant announced, “Madam Jia Rong of the East Mansion has passed away.”Sister Phoenix broke into a cold sweat. When she had recovered from her astonishment, she dressed quickly and hurried over to Lady Wang.By that time the whole household was lamenting, distressed by this shocking news.The old people recalled Keqing’s filial behaviour, the young people her affectionate ways and the children her kindness; while all of the servants wept for grief recollecting her compassion for the poor and humble and her loving goodness to old and young alike.
But let us return to Precious Jade Merchant, who was so desolate after Mascara Jade’s departure that he had given up playing with his companions and went disconsolate to bed each night.Roused from sleep by the announcement of Keqing’s death, he sprang suddenly from his bed. At once he felt a stab of pain in his heart, and with a cry spat out a mouthful of blood. Aroma and his other maids rushed up to help him back to bed, asking anxiously what was the matter. Should they get the Lady Dowager to send for a doctor?“There’s no need.it doesn't matter.” he said. “A hot humour seized on my heart and stopped the normal flow of blood.”He got up again and demanded to be dressed so that he could go to his grandmother and then to the other mansion. Anxious though Aroma was, she dared not stop him when he was in this mood.

=Tāng Huì 汤惠=
宝玉下了车，忙忙奔至停灵之室，痛哭一番，然后见过尤氏。谁知尤氏正犯了胃痛旧症，睡在床上。然后又出来见贾珍。彼时贾代儒、代修、贾敕、贾效、贾敦、贾赦、贾政、贾琮、贾珩、贾珖、贾琛、贾琼、贾磷、贾蔷、贾菖、贾菱、贾芸、贾芹、贾蓁、贾萍、贾藻、贾蘅、贾芬、贾芳、贾蓝、贾菌、贾芝等都来了。贾珍哭的泪人一般，正和贾代儒等说道：“合家大小，远近亲友，谁不知我这媳妇比儿子还强十倍。如今伸腿去了，可见这长房内绝灭无人了。”说着又哭起来。众人忙劝道：“人已辞世，哭也无益，且商议如何料理要紧。”贾珍拍手道：“如何料理，不过尽我所有罢了！”

正说着，只见秦业、秦钟并尤氏的几个眷属尤氏姊妹也都来了。贾珍便命
贾琼、贾琛、贾磷、贾蔷四个人去陪客，一面吩咐去请钦天监阴阳司来择日，择准停灵七七四十九日，三日后开丧送讣闻。这四十九日，单请一百零八僧众在大
厅上拜《大悲忏》，超度前亡后化鬼魂；另设一坛于天香楼，是九十九位全真道
士，打十九日解冤洗业醮。然后停灵于会芳园中，灵前另外五十众高僧，五十位
高道，对坛按七作好事。

那贾敬闻得长孙媳死了，因自为早晚就要飞升，如何肯又回家染了红尘，
将前功尽弃，故此并不在意，只凭贾珍料理。

Alighting from his carriage Precious Jade hurried to the room where Frivolity Grain lay and having wept there went in to see Madam You, who happened to lay in the bed because of an old disease of stomachache. He then paid his respects to Cousin Merchant. By now Confucianism Merchant had arrived with Jia Daixiu, Jia Chi, Jia Xiao, Jia Dun, Pardon Merchant, Master Merchant, Jia Cong, Jia Bin, Jia Heng, Jia Guang, Jia Chen, Jia Qiong, Jia Lin, Rose Merchant, Jia Chang, Jia Ling, Jia Yun, Jia Qin, Jia Zhen, Jia Ping, Jia Zao, Jia Heng, Jia Fen, Jia Fang, Blue Merchant, Mushroom Merchant, Jia Zhi. Bathed in tears, Jia Zhen was telling Jia Dairu and the others, “Everyone in the family, old and young, distant or close, knows that my daughter-in-law was infinitely superior to my son. Now that she has gone, my branch of the family is fated to die out.” With that he broke down again. The man present tried to console him: “ Now that she has departed this world it is useless to weep. The main thing now is to decide what must be done .” “What must be done?”Jia Zhen clapped his hands. “I am ready to dispose of all in my possession.”

He was interrupted by the arrival of Qin Ye, Clock Qin and other relatives of Madam You as well as her younger sisters. Leaving Jia Qiong, Jia Chen, Jia Lin and Rose Merchant to keep the guests company, Cousin Merchant sent to invite someone from the Department of Astrology to choose auspicious days. It was decided that the body should remain in the house for seven times senven or forty-nine days, and mourning should start the third day after her death with the issue of obituary notices. During the forty-nine days a hundred and eight Buddhist monks were to perform the Litany of Great Compassion in the main hall to release the souls of those passed away before and after her and win remission for the sins of the deceased. At an alter erected in the Heavenly Fragrance Pavilion, ninety-nie Taoists of the Perfect Truth Sect should pray for forty-nine days for absolution. The coffin would then be taken to the Garden of Concentrated Fragrance, where another fifty high bonzes and fifty high Taoists would sacrifice before it once every seventh day during the forty-nine days.

Honor Merchant alone was untouched by the death of this eldest grandson’s wife. Expecting to attain immortality shortly himself, how could he go home to be soiled by mundane dust and squander all the merit he had acquired? So he left all the funeral arrangements to his son.

Alighting from his carriage Precious Jade hurried to the room where Keqing lay. Having wept there for a while, he went in to see Madam You, who happened to lay in the bed because of an old disease of stomachache. He then paid his respects to Precious Merchant. By now Dairu Merchant had arrived with Daixiu Merchant, Chi Merchant, Xiao Merchant, Dun Merchant, She Merchant, Politics Merchant, Cong Merchant, Bin Merchant, Heng Merchant, Guang Merchant, Chen Merchant, Qiong Merchant, Lin Merchant, Rose Merchant, Chang Merchant, Ling Merchant, Yun Merchant, Qin Merchant, Zhen Merchant, Ping Merchant, Zao Merchant, Heng Merchant, Fen Merchant, Fang Merchant, Lian Merchant, Mushroom Merchant, Zhi Merchant. Bathed in tears, Precious Merchant was speaking to Dairu Merchant and the others,“Everyone in the family, old and young, distant or close, knows that my daughter-in-law is infinitely superior to my son. Now that she has gone, my branch of the family is fated to die out.” With that she broke down again. The man present tried to console her: “ Now that she has departed this world, it is useless to weep. The main thing now is to decide what must be done .” “What must be done?”Precious Merchant clapped her hands. “I am ready to dispose of all in my possession.”

She was interrupted by the arrival of Ye Qin, Clock Qin and other relatives of Madam You as well as her younger sisters. Leaving Qiong Merchant, Chen Merchant,
Lin Merchant and Rose Merchant to accompany the guests, Precious Merchant sent a servant to invite someone from the Department of Astrology to choose auspicious days. It was decided that the body should remain in the house for seven weeks or forty-nine days, and the mourning should start from the third day after her death with the issue of obituary notices. During the forty-nine days a hundred and eight monks were to perform the Litany of Great Compassion in the main hall to release the souls of those passed away before and after Keqing and win remission for the sins of the deceased. At an alter erected in the Heavenly Fragrance Pavilion, ninety-nine Taoists of the Perfect Truth Sect should pray for forty-nine days for absolution. The coffin would then be taken to the Garden of Concentrated Fragrance, where another fifty high bonzes and fifty high Taoists would sacrifice before it once every seventh day during the forty-nine days.

Respect Merchant alone was untouched by the death of this eldest grandson's wife. Expecting to attain immortality shortly himself, how could he go home to be soiled by mundane dust and squander all the merit he had acquired? So he left all the funeral arrangements to his son.--[[User:Tang Qizhou|Tang Qizhou]] ([[User talk:Tang Qizhou|talk]]) 16:12, 20 April 2021 (UTC)

=Táng Qǐzhōu 唐启洲 Mr.=
且说贾珍恣意奢华，看板时，几副杉木板皆不中意。可巧薛蟠来吊，因见贾珍寻好板，便说：“我们木店里有一副板，叫作什么樯木，出在潢海铁网山上，作了棺材，万年不坏。这还是当年先父带来的，原系忠义亲王老千岁要的，因他坏了事，就不曾用。现在还封在店里，也没有人买得起。你若是要，就来看看。”贾珍听说甚喜，即命抬来，大家看时，只见帮皆厚八寸，纹若槟榔，味若檀麝，以手扣之，声如玉石。大家称奇。贾珍笑问道：“价值几何？”薛蟠笑道“拿着一千两银子只怕没买处，什么价不价，赏他们几两银子作工钱便是了。”贾珍听说，忙谢不尽，即命解锯造成。贾政因劝道：“此物恐非常人可享，殓以上等杉木也罢了。”贾珍如何肯听。

忽又听见秦氏之丫鬟名唤瑞珠的，见秦氏死了，也触柱而亡。此事可罕，合族都称叹。贾珍遂以孙女之礼殡殓之，一并停灵于会芳园之登仙阁。又有小丫鬟名宝珠的，因秦氏无出，乃愿为义女，请任摔丧驾灵之任。贾珍甚喜，即时传命，从此皆呼宝珠为小姐。那宝珠按未嫁女之礼，在灵前哀哀欲绝。

于是合族人丁并家下诸人都各遵旧制行事，自不得错乱。贾珍因想道：“贾蓉不过是黉门监，灵幡上写时不好看，便是执事也不多。”因此，心下甚不自在。

Treasure Merchant indulged herself in luxury and found it hard to choose an ideal coffin plank. Dragon Marshgrass happened to visit at this time. Finding Treasure Merchant was choosing for a good plank, he said," There is a plank in our wood store. It is found on the Iron Net Mountain at Huanghai and is named Qiang. If you use it as the coffin, it won't rot for thousands of years. It was ordered by Old Thousand and was brought back by my dead father. However, considering his crime, the wood has never been used, and as no one can afford it, it is still lying in the store now. If you are interested, now and have a look." Treasure Merchant was so delighted when hearing this that she immediately asked the servants to bring it here. The width of the wood was eight cun, with areca-not-like stripes and a smell of sandalwood and musk. When being knocked, it sounds like the jade. Everyone complimented the wood, including Treasure Merchant, smiling contentedly and asked the price of it. Dragon Marshgrass laughed," Don't think about the price. We only worry no one would buy it. Just pay several silver and that's a deal." Hearing this, Treasure Merchant hurriedly expressed her gratitude and immediately requested others to separate it. Master Merchant persuaded," It is not for a normal person to enjoy. It's okay if we use another good plank," but how could Treasure Merchant listen to his advice?

It was heard that one of Qin's maids, named Auspicious Pearl, committed suicide on the news of Qin's death. It was so rarely seen that the whole family was shocked. Treasure Merchant encoffined her following the rules for a dead granddaughter and buried her together at the Immortal Pavilion in the Meeting Fragrance Garden. As Qin had no descendant, another young maid named Jewel willingly become an adopted daughter and offered to play a role in the funeral. Treasure Merchant was really happy and asked others to call her miss ever since. That Jewel followed the rule of an unmarried women to cry sadly in front of the tomb.

Everyone in the family acted as the old discipline without any mistake. Treasure Merchant wondered," Prosperity Merchant is only a student from the Imperial College. He doesn't write well on the band of mourning, and doesn't arrange many affairs." Thinking about this, she felt quite uncomfortable.--[[User:Tang Qizhou|Tang Qizhou]] ([[User talk:Tang Qizhou|talk]]) 15:09, 16 April 2021 (UTC)--[[User:Tang Qizhou|Tang Qizhou]] ([[User talk:Tang Qizhou|talk]]) 14:07, 26 April 2021 (UTC)

Treasure Merchant indulged herself in extravagance. She found it hard to choose an ideal coffin plank when choosing planks.Dragon Marshgrass happened to visit at this time. Finding Treasure Merchant was choosing for a good plank, he said," There is a plank called Qiang in our timber shop. It is found on the Iron-Net Mountain at Huanghai . If you use it as the coffin, it won't rot for thousands of years. It was ordered by Old Thousand and was brought back by my dead father. However, after his disgrece, the wood has never been used, and no one dare to buy it at a high price. It is still lying in the store now. If you are interested, now and have a look." Overjoyed by his words, Treasure Merchant ordered the servants to fetch it without delay. The width of the wood was eight cun, with areca-not-like stripes and a smell of sandalwood and musk. When being knocked, it sounds like the jade. Everyone complimented the wood, including Treasure Merchant, smiling contentedly and asked the price of it. Dragon Marshgrass laughed," Don't think about the price. We only worry no one would buy it. Just pay several silver and that's a deal." Hearing this, Treasure Merchant hurriedly expressed her gratitude and immediately requested others to separate it. Master Merchant persuaded," “This seems too sumptuous for ordinary people. The best quality cedar-boards would be quite adequate.” but how could Treasure Merchant listen to his advice?It was heard that one of Qin's maids, named Auspicious Pearl, committed suicide on the news of Qin's death. It was so rarely seen that the whole family was shocked. Treasure Merchant encoffined her following the rules for a dead granddaughter and buried her together at the Immortal Pavilion in the Meeting Fragrance Garden. As Qin had no descendant, another young maid named Jewel willingly become an adopted daughter and offered to play a role in the funeral. Treasure Merchant was really happy and asked others to call her miss ever since. That Jewel followed the rule of an unmarried women to cry sadly in front of the tomb.All the clansmen and servants observed the etiquette traditionally prescribed for such occasions with unimpeachable propriety. Treasure Merchant wondered," Prosperity Merchant is only a student from the Imperial College. This would not look well in the inscription on the funeral banner and so did his arrangements for affairs." Thinking about thas, she felt quite uncomfortable.--[[User:Teng Bixia|Teng Bixia]] ([[User talk:Teng Bixia|talk]]) 13:42, 27 April 2021 (UTC)

=Téng Bìxiá 滕璧霞=
可巧这日正是首七第四日，早有大明宫掌宫内监戴权，先备了祭礼遣人来，
次坐了大轿，打道鸣锣，亲来上祭。贾珍忙接陪，让坐至逗蜂轩献茶。贾珍心中
早打定了主意，因而趁便就说要与贾蓉捐个前程的话。戴权会意，因笑道：“想
是为丧礼上风光些？”贾珍忙道：“老内相所见不差。”戴权道：“事倒凑巧，正有个美缺。如今三百员龙禁尉缺了两员，昨儿襄阳侯的兄弟老三来求我，现拿了一千五百两银子送到我家里。你知道，咱们都是老相好，不拘怎么样，看着他爷爷的分上，胡乱应了。还剩了一个缺，谁知永兴节度使冯胖子要求与他孩子捐，
我就没工夫应他。既是咱们的孩子要捐，快写个履历来。”贾珍忙命人写了一
张红纸履所来。戴权看了，上写着：

江南应天府江宁县监生贾蓉，年二十岁。曾祖，原任京营节度使世袭一等神威将军贾代化。祖，丙辰科进士贾敬。父，世袭三品爵威烈将军贾珍。

戴权看了，回手递与一个贴身的小厮收了，道：“回去送与户部堂官老赵，
说我拜上他起一张五品龙禁尉的票，再给个执照，就把这履历填上，明日我来兑
银子送过去。”小厮答应了。戴权告辞，贾珍款留不住，只得送出府门。临上轿，
贾珍问：“银子还是我到部去兑，还是送人内相府中？”戴权道：“若到部里兑，你又吃亏了；不如平准一千两银子送到我家就完了。”
It happened to be July 4th today. Power Advocacy, a superintendent who was in charge of the imperial things in The Daming Palace, first prepared a sacrifice ceremony ,ordered servants and then took the sedan chair to came to offer sacrifices in person, with gong being beaten along the whole way. Treasure Merchant rushed to greet, offering a cup of tea at the Doubee House. Having made up his mind early, Treasure Merchant took the opportunity to ask for a good position for Prosperity Merchant. Knowing that, Power Advocacy smiled and said:"Is it for pompat at the funeral？” Treasure Merchant quikly said:" you get the meaning." Power Advocacy responded:"By coincidence, there is a good position. Two members are needed in royal safeguards which consist of three hundred men. Yesterday, The Third,a brother of Duck of Xiangyang visited me and now he take 1,500 taels of silver to my house. You know, we are all good old friends, and because of his grandfather, I just responded indiscriminately. There was still one vacancy left, but no one expects that Fatty Feng , the military commissioner of Yongxing, arranges it for his children. I have no time to respond to him. If your children want it, ask him to write a resume at once." Treasure Merchant hastily ordered someone to write a resum in a piece of red paper. Power Advocacy looked at the resume which said: Prosperity Merchant, examinee of Jiangning County,is 20 years old.His great-grandfather was Virtuous Merchant , a hereditary First Class Shenwei general, who served as the imperial commander in Beijing. His grandfather was an advanced scholar in Bingchen. His father Treasure Merchant was Hereditorial General Willy, Third Pinker. Skimming over it. Power Advocacy gave it to a close attendant and said:"Go back and send it to Zhao, the minister of the household department, and tell him that I ask him to give him a ticket for the fifth grade dragon banned lieutenant, and then give a license and fill in this resume. I will exchange some money and send it to his house tomorrow." The attendant agreed. When Power Advocacy was ready to leave, Treasure Merchant wanted him to stay longer but faied, noly to send him out of the mansion. When it was time to get on the sedan, Treasure Merchant asked: "Should I go to the ministry to cash the silver, or send it to the interior minister's house?"Power Advocacy said:" If you go to the Ministry, you will suffer a loss; It would be better to send 1,000 taels of silver to my house."--[[User:Teng Bixia|Teng Bixia]] ([[User talk:Teng Bixia|talk]]) 08:54, 27 April 2021 (UTC)--[[User:Teng Bixia|Teng Bixia]] ([[User talk:Teng Bixia|talk]]) 12:54, 27 April 2021 (UTC)

As luck would have it, however, on the fourth day of the first week of mourning servants with sacrificial offerings arrived from the eunuch Power Advocacy, chamberlain of the Palace of Great Splendour, who followed in a great palanquin with an official umbrella and gonging and drumming to offer an oblation. Jia Zhen ushered him eagerly in and offered him tea in the Bee-Teasing Pavilion. He already had a scheme in mind and soon found occasion to express his wish to purchase a rank for his son. Power Advocacy rejoined with a knowing smile, “To make the funeral more sumptuous, I presume?” “Your assumption is correct, sir.”By a fortunate coincidence there happens to be a good post going. There are two vacancies in the corps of three hundred officers of the Imperial Guard.  Yesterday the third brother of the Marquis of Xiangyang sent me 1,500 taels and asked me for one of them; and since we are old friends, as you know, for his grandfather’s sake I made no difficulties but agreed out of hand. Who would have expected that Fatty Feng, Military Governor of Yongxing, wants to buy the other appointment for his son; but I haven’t yet had time to give him an answer. ”If your boy wants it, make haste and write out a statement of his antecedents.”Treasure Merchantat once sent a servant to pass on these instructions to his secretaries. The man returned presently with a sheet of red paper. After glancing at it Jia Zhen handed it to Dai Quan, who read: Jia Rong, twenty, State Scholar of Jiangning District, Jiangning Prefecture, Jiangnan. Great-grandfather: Power Advocacy, commander-in-chief of the Metropolitan Garrison and a hereditary general of the first class with the appellation Spiritual Might. Grandfather: Jia Jing, Metropolitan Scholar of the Yi Mao year. Father: Jia Zhen, hereditary general of the third rank with the appellation Mighty Intrepidity. Power Advocacy ordered one of his attendants, "Take this to Old Zhao, chief of the Board of Revenue, with my compliments. Ask him to draw up a warrant for an officer of the fifth rank in the Imperial Guard and to fill out a commission according to these particulars. Tomorrow I will weigh out the silver and send it over. Dai Quan then took his leave. His host, who could not detain him, saw him out. Before the eunuch mounted his palanquin Jia Zhen asked: “Shall I take the money to the Board or to you, sir?” “Just weigh out 1,200 taels and send it to my house. If you go to the Board, they’ll fleece you.”
--[[User:Wang Chuyi|Wang Chuyi]] ([[User talk:Wang Chuyi|talk]]) 16:31, 20 April 2021 (UTC)

=Wáng Chǔyí 王楚仪=
贾珍感谢不尽，因说：“待服满后，亲带大小犬到府叩谢。”于是作别。

接着又听喝道之声，原来是忠靖侯史鼎的夫人来了。王夫人、邢夫人、凤
姐等刚迎入正房，又见锦乡侯、川宁侯、寿山伯三家祭礼也摆在灵前；少时，三人下轿，贾珍接上大厅。如此亲朋你来我去，也不能计数。只这四十九日，宁国府街上一条白漫漫人来人往，花簇簇官来官去。

贾珍令贾蓉次日换了吉服，领凭回来。灵前供用执事等物俱按五品职例，
灵牌疏上皆写“诰授贾门秦氏宜人之灵位”。会芳园临街大门洞开，两边起了
鼓乐厅，两班青衣按时奏乐，一对对执事摆的刀斩斧截。更有两面朱红销金大
牌竖在门外，上面大书道：“防护内廷紫禁道御前侍卫龙禁尉。”对面高起着宣
坛，僧道对坛，榜上大书“世袭宁国公冢孙妇防护内廷御前侍卫龙禁尉贾门秦
氏宜人之丧。四大部洲至中之地，奉天永建太平之国，总理虚无寂静教门僧录
司正堂万、总理元始正一教门道纪司正堂叶生等，敬谨修斋，朝天叩佛”以及
“恭请诸‘伽蓝’‘揭谛’‘功曹’等神，圣恩普锡，神戚远振，四十九日销灾洗业平安水陆道场”等语，亦不及繁记。

只是贾珍虽然心意满足，但里面尤氏又犯了旧疾，不能料理事务，惟恐各
诰命来往，亏了礼数，怕人笑话，因此心中不自在。

Jia Zhen thanked him warmly and promised, "When the mourning is over I shall bring my worthless son to kowtow his thanks.” And so they parted. Then runners could be heard clearing the way for the wife of Shi Ding, Marquis of Zhongjing.  Lady Wang, Lady Xing, and Xifeng welcomed her into the drawing-room. Then sacrificial gifts from the Marquises of Jinxiang and Channing as well as the Earl of Shoushan were displayed before the coffin. Presently these three nobles alighted from their palanquins and Jia Zhen ushered them into the main hall. So relatives and friends past counting came and went. Indeed, for forty-nine days the street outside the Ning Mansion was a sea of mourners in white interspersed by officials in their brilliant robes. At his father’s order, Jia Rong changed into court dress the next day to collect his commission, after which the funerary ware in front of the coffin as well as the insignia for the cortege was made to befit an official of the fifth rank. The obituary tablet and notice were inscribed: “Obsequies of Lady Qin, Spouse of the House of Jia, Granted a Rank by Imperial Decree off the Celestial Court.” The street gate in the Garden of Concentrated Fragrance was opened, and on platforms erected at both sides groups of blue-clad musicians played at appropriate times. The retinue stood in pairs in perfect symmetry, and two large vermilion boards set up outside the gate bore the bold gilt inscriptions “Imperial Guard and Defender of the Palace Roads in the Inner Court of the Forbidden City.” Across the road, facing each other, towered two altars for Buddhist and Taoist priests. The announcement on them read Obsequies of Lady Qin of the Jia Family, Consort of the Eldest Great-Grandson of the Hereditary Duke of Ningguo, Imperial Guard and Defender of the Palace Roads in the Inner Court of the Forbidden City. In this land of peace and empire ruled according to the will of Heaven, in the center of the four continents, we, Chief Buddhist Abbot Wan Xu, Controller of the School of the Void and Asceticism, and Chief Taoist Abbot Ye Sheng, Controller of the Primordial School of the Trinity, having reverently purified ourselves raise our eyes to Heaven and kowtow to Buddha. We humbly invoke all divinities to show their divine compassion and display their spiritual majesty afar in these forty-nine days of grand sacrifice, that the departed may be delivered from sins and absolved from retribution. There was more in the same vein. Now all that still troubled Jia Zhen was the fact that his wife was ill in bed again, unable to see to things. If any breach of etiquette occurred while so many nobles were calling, the family would be laughed at.
--[[User:Wang Chuyi|Wang Chuyi]] ([[User talk:Wang Chuyi|talk]]) 16:24, 20 April 2021 (UTC)

Treasure Merchant thanked him warmly and promised, "When the mourning is over I shall bring my worthless son to kowtow his thanks.” And so they parted. Then runners could be heard clearing the way for the wife of Shi Ding, Marquis of Zhongjing.  Lady Wang, Lady Xing, and Splendid Phoenix welcomed her into the drawing-room. Then sacrificial gifts from the Marquises of Jinxiang and Channing as well as the Earl of Shoushan were displayed before the coffin. Presently these three nobles alighted from their palanquins and Treasure Merchant ushered them into the main hall. So relatives and friends past counting came and went. Indeed, for forty-nine days the street outside the Ning Mansion was a sea of mourners in white interspersed by officials in their brilliant robes. At his father’s order, Jia Rong changed into court dress the next day to collect his commission, after which the funerary ware in front of the coffin as well as the insignia for the cortege was made to befit an official of the fifth rank. The obituary tablet and notice were inscribed: “Obsequies of Lady Qin, Spouse of the House of Jia, Granted a Rank by Imperial Decree off the Celestial Court.” The street gate in the Garden of Concentrated Fragrance was opened, and on platforms erected at both sides groups of blue-clad musicians played at appropriate times. The retinue stood in pairs in perfect symmetry, and two large vermilion boards set up outside the gate bore the bold gilt inscriptions “Imperial Guard and Defender of the Palace Roads in the Inner Court of the Forbidden City.” Across the road, facing each other, towered two altars for Buddhist and Taoist priests. The announcement on them read Obsequies of Lady Qin of the Jia Family, Consort of the Eldest Great-Grandson of the Hereditary Duke of Ningguo, Imperial Guard and Defender of the Palace Roads in the Inner Court of the Forbidden City. In this land of peace and empire ruled according to the will of Heaven, in the center of the four continents, we, Chief Buddhist Abbot Wan Xu, Controller of the School of the Void and Asceticism, and Chief Taoist Abbot Ye Sheng, Controller of the Primordial School of the Trinity, having reverently purified ourselves raise our eyes to Heaven and kowtow to Buddha. We humbly invoke all divinities to show their divine compassion and display their spiritual majesty afar in these forty-nine days of grand sacrifice, that the departed may be delivered from sins and absolved from retribution. There was more in the same vein. Now all that still troubled Jia Zhen was the fact that his wife was ill in bed again, unable to see to things. If any breach of etiquette occurred while so many nobles were calling, the family would be laughed at.
—[[User:Wang Jingyi|Wang Jingyi]] ([[User talk:Wang Jingyi|talk]]) 06:54, 9 June 2021 (UTC)

Treasure Merchant thanked him warmly and promised, "When the mourning is over I shall bring my worthless son to kowtow his thanks.” And so they parted. Then runners could be heard clearing the way for the wife of Shi Ding, Marquis of Zhongjing.  Lady King, Lady City, and Splendid Phoenix welcomed her into the drawing-room. Then sacrificial gifts from the Marquises of Jinxiang and Channing as well as the Earl of Shoushan were displayed before the coffin. Presently these three nobles alighted from their palanquins and Treasure Merchant ushered them into the main hall. So relatives and friends past counting came and went. Indeed, for forty-nine days the street outside the Ning Mansion was a sea of mourners in white interspersed by officials in their brilliant robes. At his father’s order, Prosperity Merchant changed into court dress the next day to collect his commission, after which the funerary ware in front of the coffin as well as the insignia for the cortege was made to befit an official of the fifth rank. The obituary tablet and notice were inscribed: “Obsequies of Lady Qin, Spouse of the House of Jia, Granted a Rank by Imperial Decree off the Celestial Court.” The street gate in the Garden of Concentrated Fragrance was opened, and on platforms erected at both sides groups of blue-clad musicians played at appropriate times. The retinue stood in pairs in perfect symmetry, and two large vermilion boards set up outside the gate bore the bold gilt inscriptions “Imperial Guard and Defender of the Palace Roads in the Inner Court of the Forbidden City.” Across the road, facing each other, towered two altars for Buddhist and Taoist priests. The announcement on them read Obsequies of Lady Qin of the Jia Family, Consort of the Eldest Great-Grandson of the Hereditary Duke of Ningguo, Imperial Guard and Defender of the Palace Roads in the Inner Court of the Forbidden City. In this land of peace and empire ruled according to the will of Heaven, in the center of the four continents, we, Chief Buddhist Abbot Wan Xu, Controller of the School of the Void and Asceticism, and Chief Taoist Abbot Ye Sheng, Controller of the Primordial School of the Trinity, having reverently purified ourselves raise our eyes to Heaven and kowtow to Buddha. We humbly invoke all divinities to show their divine compassion and display their spiritual majesty afar in these forty-nine days of grand sacrifice, that the departed may be delivered from sins and absolved from retribution. There was more in the same vein. Now all that still troubled Treasure Merchant was the fact that his wife was ill in bed again, unable to see to things. If any breach of etiquette occurred while so many nobles were calling, the family would be laughed at.
--[[User:Wang Chuyi|Wang Chuyi]] ([[User talk:Wang Chuyi|talk]]) 17:13, 27 April 2021 (UTC)

=Wáng Jìngyí 王静怡=
当下正忧虑时，因宝玉在侧，便问道：“事事都算安贴了，大哥哥还愁什么？”贾珍便将里面无人的话告诉了他。宝玉听说，笑道：“这有何难，我荐一个人与你，权理这一个月的事，管保妥当。”贾珍忙问：“是谁？”宝玉见坐间还有许多亲友，不便明言，走向贾珍耳边说了两句。贾珍听了，喜不自胜，笑道：“这果然妥贴，如今就去。”说着，拉了宝玉，薛了众人，便往上房里来。

可巧这日非正经日期，亲友来的少，里面不过几位近亲堂客，邢夫人、王夫
人、凤姐并合族中的内眷陪坐。闻人报：“大爷进来了。”唬的众婆娘“唿”的一声，往后藏之不迭，独凤姐款款站了起来。

贾珍此时也有些病症在身，二则过于悲痛，因拄个拐踱了进来。邢夫人等因说道：“你身上不好，又连日事多，该歇歇才是，又进来做什么？”贾珍一面拄拐，扎挣着要蹲身跪下请安道乏；邢夫人等忙叫宝玉搀住，命人??椅子与他坐。

贾珍不肯坐，因勉强陪笑道：“侄儿进来有一件事要求二位婶婶并大妹妹。”邢夫人等忙问：“什么事？”贾珍忙忙道：“婶婶自然知道，如今孙子媳妇没了，侄儿媳妇又病倒，我看里头着实不成体统。要屈尊大妹妹一个月，在这里料理料理，我就放心了。”

Precious Jade noticed his preoccupation and asked: “Why do you look so anxious, cousin, now that everything’s settled so satisfactorily?” When told the reason he said cheerfully, “That’s no problem. I’ll recommend someone to take charge for you. Let her see to things this month and I guarantee that everything will go smoothly.”“Who do you mean?” Since there were many friends and relatives present, Precious Jade drew closer and whispered into his ear.“Excellent!” Treasure Merchant sprang to his feet, overjoyed. “I must see to it at once.” Taking leave of the others he hurried off with Precious Jade to the drawing-room.
As this was not one of the major days on which masses were said, only a few ladies who were close relatives had come. They were being entertained by Lady Xing, Lady Wang, Xifeng and other women of the household when Treasure Merchant was announced.The ladies uttered cries of astonishment and hurriedly tried to slip into the inner room. Only Xifeng stood up composedly.
Treasure Merchant was not in good health himself at this time and, being weighed down with grief, he limped in with a cane.“You are not well,” said Lady Xing. “After all your recent exertions you ought to rest. What business brings you here?”Still clutching his cane, Treasure Merchant made an effort to kneel to greet and thank his kinswomen. Lady Xing urged Precious Jade to restrain him and had a chair placed for him, but he would not take it.
Forcing a smile he announced, "Your nephew has come to ask a favour of his aunts and cousin.”“What is it?” inquired Lady Xing.“You know how it is, aunt. With my daughter-in-law gone and my wife ill in bed, everything is at sixes and sevens in the inner apartments. If my cousin Xifeng would condescend to take charge here for a month, that would set my mind at rest.”

=Wáng Qìnyú 王沁瑜=
邢夫人笑道：“原来为这个。你大妹妹现在你二婶婶家，只和你二婶婶说就是了。”王夫人忙道：“他一个小孩子，何曾经过这些事，倘或料理不清，反叫人笑话，倒是再烦别人好。”贾珍笑道：“婶婶的意思，侄儿猜着了，是怕大妹妹劳苦了。若说料理不开，从小儿大妹妹玩笑时就有杀伐决断，如今出了阁，在那府里办事，越发历练老成了。我想了这几日，陈了大妹妹再无人可求了。婶婶不看侄儿与侄儿媳妇面上，只看死的分上罢！”说着流下泪来。

王夫人心中为的是凤姐未经过丧事，怕他料理不起，被人见笑；今见贾珍苦苦的说，心中已活了几分，却又眼看着凤姐出神。那凤姐素日最喜揽事，好卖弄能干，今见贾珍如此央他，心中早已允了；又见王夫人有活动之意，便向王夫人道：“大哥说得如此恳切，太太就依了罢。”王夫人悄悄的问道：“你可能么？”

凤姐道：“有什不能！算外面的大事，已经大哥哥料理清了，不过是里面照管照管。便是我有不知的，问太太就是了。”王夫人见说得有理，便不出声。贾珍见凤姐允了，又陪笑道：“也管不得许多了，横竖要求大妹妹辛苦辛苦。我这里先与大妹妹行礼，等完了事，我再到那府里去谢。”说着就作揖下去，凤姐连忙还礼不迭。

Lady Xing laughed, “So that is what you do for. Your eldest sister is now with your second aunt and you just ask your second aunt.” Lady Wang hastily said: “She is such a child to has not experience these things. If she can’t deal with these well, then it will show other joke. It’s better not to annoy others anymore.” -

“I can guess your real objection, aunt,” he replied. “You’re afraid she’d find it too tiring. As for handling things badly, I know that wouldn’t be the case. And any little slip would be overlooked.

Ever since she was a child at play SisterPhoenix has known her own mind, and by managing the other house since her marriage she’s gained experience. I’ve been thinking this over for some days and there’s no one else so competent. If you won’t agree for my sake or my wife’s, aunt, do it for the one who’s dead.” His tears flowed again.

Lady Wang’s only concern had been lest SisterPhoenix, having no experience of funerals, might lay herself open to ridicule by managing badly. The earnestness of Jia Zhen’s request softened her heart and she eyed SisterPhoenix thoughtfully.Now SisterPhoenix loved nothing better than displaying her administrative ability. Although she ran the household competently, as she had never been entrusted with grand affairs like weddings or funerals she was afraid others were not yet fully convinced of her efficiency and she was longing for a chance like this.Jia Zhen’s request delighted her. Seeing that his eagerness was overcoming Lady Wang’s initial reluctance, she said: “Since my cousin is so earnest and pressing, won’t you give your consent, madam?” - “Are you sure you can cope?” whispered Lady Wang.
“I don’t see why not. Cousin Zhen has seen to all the important outside arrangements, it’s just a question of keeping an eye on the domestic side. And in case of doubt, I can consult you.”Since this was reasonable, Lady Wang made no further objection. “I can’t see to everything,” Jia Zhen said to SisterPhoenix. “I must beg you to help us, cousin.Let me express my gratitude now, and when everything’s over I shall come round to your side to thank you properly.” He made a low bow and, before she could return it.

/
Lady City laughed, “So that is what you do for. Your eldest sister is now with your second aunt and you just ask your second aunt.” Lady Wang hastily said: “She is such a child to has not experience these things. If she can’t deal with these well, then it will show other joke. It’s better not to annoy others anymore.” -

“I can guess your real objection, aunt,” he replied. “You’re afraid she’d find it too tiring. As for handling things badly, I know that wouldn’t be the case. And any little slip would be overlooked.

Ever since she was a child at play SisterPhoenix has known her own mind, and by managing the other house since her marriage she’s gained experience. I’ve been thinking this over for some days and there’s no one else so competent. If you won’t agree for my sake or my wife’s, aunt, do it for the one who’s dead.” His tears flowed again.

Lady Wang’s only concern had been lest SisterPhoenix, having no experience of funerals, might lay herself open to ridicule by managing badly. The earnestness of Cousin Zhen’s request softened her heart and she eyed SisterPhoenix thoughtfully.Now SisterPhoenix loved nothing better than displaying her administrative ability. Although she ran the household competently, as she had never been entrusted with grand affairs like weddings or funerals she was afraid others were not yet fully convinced of her efficiency and she was longing for a chance like this.Cousin Zhen’s request delighted her. Seeing that his eagerness was overcoming Lady Wang’s initial reluctance, she said: “Since my cousin is so earnest and pressing, won’t you give your consent, madam?” - “Are you sure you can cope?” whispered Lady Wang.
“I don’t see why not. Cousin Zhen has seen to all the important outside arrangements, it’s just a question of keeping an eye on the domestic side. And in case of doubt, I can consult you.”Since this was reasonable, Lady Wang made no further objection. “I can’t see to everything,” Cousin Zhen said to SisterPhoenix. “I must beg you to help us, cousin.Let me express my gratitude now, and when everything’s over I shall come round to your side to thank you properly.” He made a low bow and, before she could return it.--[[User:Wang Qinyu|Wang Qinyu]] ([[User talk:Wang Qinyu|talk]]) 05:33, 28 April 2021 (UTC)

Lady Xing laughed, “So that is what you do for. Your eldest sister is now with your second aunt and you just ask your second aunt.” Lady Wang hastily said: “She is such a child to has not experience these things. If she can’t deal with these well, then it will show other joke. It’s better not to annoy others anymore.” -

“I can guess your real objection, aunt,” he replied. “You’re afraid she’d find it too tiring. As for handling things badly, I know that wouldn’t be the case. And any little slip would be overlooked.

Ever since she was a child at play SisterPhoenix has known her own mind, and by managing the other house since her marriage she’s gained experience. I’ve been thinking this over for some days and there’s no one else so competent. If you won’t agree for my sake or my wife’s, aunt, do it for the one who’s dead.” His tears flowed again.

Lady Wang’s only concern had been lest SisterPhoenix, having no experience of funerals, might lay herself open to ridicule by managing badly. The earnestness of Jia Zhen’s request softened her heart and she eyed SisterPhoenix thoughtfully.Now SisterPhoenix loved nothing better than displaying her administrative ability. Although she ran the household competently, as she had never been entrusted with grand affairs like weddings or funerals she was afraid others were not yet fully convinced of her efficiency and she was longing for a chance like this.Jia Zhen’s request delighted her. Seeing that his eagerness was overcoming Lady Wang’s initial reluctance, she said: “Since my cousin is so earnest and pressing, won’t you give your consent, madam?” - “Are you sure you can cope?” whispered Lady Wang.
“I don’t see why not. Cousin Zhen has seen to all the important outside arrangements, it’s just a question of keeping an eye on the domestic side. And in case of doubt, I can consult you.”Since this was reasonable, Lady Wang made no further objection. “I can’t see to everything,” Jia Zhen said to SisterPhoenix. “I must beg you to help us, cousin.Let me express my gratitude now, and when everything’s over I shall come round to your side to thank you properly.” He made a low bow and, before she could return it.

/
Lady City laughed, “So that is what you do for. Your eldest sister is now with your second aunt and you just ask your second aunt.” Lady Wang hastily said: “She is such a child to has not experience these things. If she can’t deal with these well, then it will show other joke. It’s better not to annoy others anymore.” -

“I can guess your real objection, aunt,” he replied. “You’re afraid she’d find it too tiring. As for handling things badly, I know that wouldn’t be the case. And any little slip would be overlooked.

Ever since she was a child at play SisterPhoenix has known her own mind, and by managing the other house since her marriage she’s gained experience. I’ve been thinking this over for some days and there’s no one else so competent. If you won’t agree for my sake or my wife’s, aunt, do it for the one who’s dead.” His tears flowed again.

Lady Wang’s only concern had been lest SisterPhoenix, having no experience of funerals, might lay herself open to ridicule by managing badly. The earnestness of Cousin Zhen’s request softened her heart and she eyed SisterPhoenix thoughtfully.Now SisterPhoenix loved nothing better than displaying her administrative ability. Although she ran the household competently, as she had never been entrusted with grand affairs like weddings or funerals she was afraid others were not yet fully convinced of her efficiency and she was longing for a chance like this.Cousin Zhen’s request delighted her. Seeing that his eagerness was overcoming Lady Wang’s initial reluctance, she said: “Since my cousin is so earnest and pressing, won’t you give your consent, madam?” - “Are you sure you can cope?” whispered Lady Wang.
“I don’t see why not. Cousin Zhen has seen to all the important outside arrangements, it’s just a question of keeping an eye on the domestic side. And in case of doubt, I can consult you.”Since this was reasonable, Lady Wang made no further objection. “I can’t see to everything,” Cousin Zhen said to SisterPhoenix. “I must beg you to help us, cousin.Let me express my gratitude now, and when everything’s over I shall come round to your side to thank you properly.” He made a low bow and, before she could return it.
--[[User:Wang Zihan|Wang Zihan]] ([[User talk:Wang Zihan|talk]]) 09:04, 9 June 2021 (UTC)

=Wáng Zǐhán 王子涵=
贾珍便命人取了宁国府对牌来，命宝玉送与凤姐，说道：“妹妹爱怎么就怎
么样办，要什么，只管拿这个取去，也不必问我。只求别存心替我省钱，要好看
为上；二则也同那府里一样待人才好，不要存心怕人抱怨。只这两件外，我再没
不放心的了。”凤姐不敢就接牌，只看着王夫人，王夫人道：“你大哥既这么说，你就照看照看罢了。只是别自作主意，有了事打发人问你哥哥嫂子一声儿要
紧。”宝玉早向贾珍手里接过对牌来，强递与凤姐了。贾珍又问：“妹妹还是住
在这里，还是天天来呢？若是天天来，越发辛苦了。我这里赶着收拾出一个院
落来，妹妹住过这几日，倒安稳。”凤姐笑说：“不用，那边也离不得我，倒是天天来的好。”贾珍说：“也罢，也罢。”然后又说了一回闲话，方才出去。

一时女眷散后，王夫人因问凤姐：“你今儿怎么样？”凤姐道：“太太只管请
回去；我须得先理出一个头绪来才回得去呢。”王夫人听说，便先同邢夫人回去，
不在话下。

这里凤姐来至三间一所抱厦内坐了，因想：头一件是人口混杂，遗失东西；
二件，事无专管，临期推委；三件，需用过费，滥支冒领；四件，任无大小，苦乐不均；五件，家人豪纵，有脸者不能服钤束，无脸者不能上进。此五件实是宁府中风俗。不知凤姐如何处治，且听下回分解。
Jia Zhen took the Ning Mansion tally from his sleeve and asked Baoyu to hand it to her. “You will have a free hand, cousin,” he promised. “Just use this to requisition whatever, you want, there’s no need to consult me. I’ve only two requests to make. First, please don’t try to spare me expense, as I want everything done handsomely. And secondly, treat the servants here as you would your own, don’t be afraid they may resent it. Apart from these two provisos, nothing else worries me.” Xifeng did not venture to take the tally but glanced at Lady Wang. “Do as your cousin asks,” said Lady Wang. “But don’t take too much upon yourself. If there are any decisions to make, send to ask him and your sister-in-law what should be done.” Baoyu had already taken the tally from Jia Then and forced it on Xifeng. “Would you prefer to stay here or to come over every day?” Jia Zhen asked her. “Coming over every day might be rather tiring. Why not let me clear out an apartment for you to stay in. Wouldn’t that save you trouble?” “There’s no need,” replied Xifeng gaily. “They can’t do without me over there. I’ll come every day.” Jia Zhen did not insist but left them after a little further chat. As soon as the visitors had gone Lady Wang asked Xifeng what she proposed to do now. “Please don’t wait for me, madam. I must sort things out before I come home.” So Lady Wang left first with Lady Xing, while Xifeng retired to a small three-roomed annex to reflect as follows:  First, this household is such a mixed one that things may get lost; Secondly, unless duties are assigned the servants may shirk work; Thirdly, the heavy expenditure may lead to extravagance and faked receipts; Fourthly, if no distinction is made between large tasks and small ones, some will have a harder time than others; Fifthly, these servants are so out of hand that those with any pretensions may defy me, and those with none won’t do their best. These were indeed the’ five distinguishing features of the Ning Mansion. To know how Xifeng coped, read the following chapter. --[[User:Wang Zihan|Wang Zihan]] ([[User talk:Wang Zihan|talk]]) 09:03, 9 June 2021 (UTC)

“You will have a free hand, cousin,” he promised. “Just use this to requisition whatever, you want, there’s no need to consult me. I’ve only two requests to make. First, please don’t try to spare me expense, as I want everything done handsomely. And secondly, treat the servants here as you would your own, don’t be afraid they may resent it. Apart from these two provisos, nothing else worries me.” “Do as your cousin asks,” said Lady Wang. “But don’t take too much upon yourself. If there are any decisions to make, send to ask him and your sister-in-law what should be done.” “Would you prefer to stay here or to come over every day?” Cousin Zhen asked her. “Coming over every day might be rather tiring. Why not let me clear out an apartment for you to stay in. Wouldn’t that save you trouble?” “There’s no need,” replied Sister Phoenix gaily. “They can’t do without me over there. I’ll come every day.” Cousin Zhen did not insist but left them after a little further chat. As soon as the visitors had gone Lady Wang asked Sister Phoenix what she proposed to do now. “Please don’t wait for me, madam. I must sort things out before I come home.” So Lady Wang left first with Lady Xing, while Sister Phoenix retired to a small three-roomed annex to reflect as follows:  First, this household is such a mixed one that things may get lost; Secondly, unless duties are assigned the servants may shirk work; Thirdly, the heavy expenditure may lead to extravagance and faked receipts; Fourthly, if no distinction is made between large tasks and small ones, some will have a harder time than others; Fifthly, these servants are so out of hand that those with any pretensions may defy me, and those with none won’t do their best. These were indeed the’ five distinguishing features of the Ning Mansion. To know how Sister Phoenix coped, read the following chapter. —[[User:Wu Siyi|Wu Siyi]] ([[User talk:Wu Siyi|talk]]) 05:25, 21 April 2021 (UTC)

=Wǔ Sīyí 伍斯仪=
◎第十四回林如海捐馆扬州城贾宝玉路谒北静王
Sea Lin Dies in Dimension Poplar
Precious Jade Meets the Prince of Beijing on the Rode
话说宁国府中都总管来升闻知里面委请了凤姐，因传齐同事人等说道：
“如今请了西府里琏二奶奶管理内事，倘或他来支取东西，或是说话，须要小心
伺候。每日大家早来晚散，宁可辛苦这一个月，过后再歇息，不要把老脸面丢
了。那是个有名的烈货，脸酸心硬，一时恼了，不认人的。”众人都道：“有理。”
又有一个笑道：“论理，我们里面也该得他来整治整治，部忒不像了。”正说着，只见来旺媳妇拿了对牌来领呈文经榜纸札，票上开着数目。众人连忙让坐倒茶，
一面命人按数取纸；来旺抱着同来旺媳妇一路来至仪门，方交与来旺媳妇自己
抱进去了。

凤姐即命彩明定造册簿；即时传了来升媳妇，要家口花名册查看；又限明
日一早传齐家人媳妇进府听差。大概点了一点数目单册，问了来升媳妇几句
话，便坐车回家。

至次日卯正二刻，便过来了。那宁国府中婆子媳妇闻得到齐，只见凤姐与
来升媳妇分派众人执事，不敢擅入，在窗外打听。听见凤姐和来升媳妇道：“既
托了我，我就说不得要讨你们嫌了。我可比不得你们奶奶好性儿，由着你们去。
再不要说你们‘这府里原是这么样’的话，如今可要依着我行，错我半点儿，管
不得谁是有脸的，谁是没脸的，一例清白处治。”

Sheng, chief steward of the Ning Mansion, heard the news that Siste Phoenix was to take charge, he summoned all his colleagues and he told them, “Madam Jia Lian of the West Mansion is coming to supervise our household, when she asks for things or gives orders, we must be extra careful. Better turn up earlier and leave later everyday, working hard this month and resting afterwards, in order not to lose face. You know what a tenor she is, sour-faced, hard-hearted and no respecter of persons once she’s angry.” They agreed, and one said with a laugh, “actually we need her to get this place into shape. Things are too out of hand.” Just then Lai Wang’s wife came along with a tally and a receipt for the amount required, to fetch sacrificial paper and paper for supplications and prayers. They made her take a seat and have some tea while someone went for the amount required and carried it for her to the inner gate, where he handed it over to her to take inside.
Then Sister Phoenix ordered Sunshine to prepare a register and sent for Lai Sheng’s wife to bring her a list of the staff. She announced that all the men-servants’ wives were to come to her early the next morning for instructions. After checking quickly through the list and asking Lai Sheng’s wife some questions, she went home in her carriage.
She was back at half past six the next morning to find all the old serving women and stewards’ wives assembled. They did not venture into the antechamber when they saw that Sister Phoenix and Lai Sheng’s wife were busy assigning tasks, but from outside the window they heard her tell the latter: “Since I have been put in charge here, I dare say I shall make myself unpopular. I’m not as good-tempered as your own mistress who lets you do what you want to do; So don’t tell me how things used to be managed here, but just do as I command. If you disobeyed my order, I will deal with you publicly, no matter how much face the offender may have.”

Advancement, chief steward of the Ning Mansion, heard the news that Sister Phoenix was to take charge, he summoned all his colleagues and he told them, “Fake Romance of the West Mansion is coming to supervise our household, when she asks for things or gives orders, we must be extra careful. Better turn up earlier and leave later everyday, working hard this month and resting afterwards, in order not to lose face. You know what a tenor she is, sour-faced, hard-hearted and no respecter of persons once she’s angry.” They agreed, and one said with a laugh, “actually we need her to get this place into shape. Things are too out of hand.” Just then Prosperity’s wife came along with a tally and a receipt for the amount required, to fetch sacrificial paper and paper for supplications and prayers. They made her take a seat and have some tea while someone went for the amount required and carried it for her to the inner gate, where he handed it over to her to take inside. Then Sister Phoenix ordered Sunshine to prepare a register and sent for Prosperity’s wife to bring her a list of the staff. She announced that all the men-servants’ wives were to come to her early the next morning for instructions. After checking quickly through the list and asking Prosperity’s wife some questions, she went home in her carriage. She was back at half past six the next morning to find all the old serving women and stewards’ wives assembled. They did not venture into the antechamber when they saw that Sister Phoenix and Prosperity’s wife were busy assigning tasks, but from outside the window they heard her tell the latter: “Since I have been put in charge here, I dare say I shall make myself unpopular. I’m not as good-tempered as your own mistress who lets you do what you want to do; So don’t tell me how things used to be managed here, but just do as I command. If you disobeyed my order, I will deal with you publicly, no matter how much face the offender may have.”—[[User:Wu Siyi|Wu Siyi]] ([[User talk:Wu Siyi|talk]]) 05:11, 28 April 2021 (UTC)

Advancement, chief steward of the Ning Mansion, heard the news that Sister Phoenix was to take charge, he summoned all his colleagues and he told them, “Fake Romance of the West Mansion is coming to supervise our household, when she asks for things or gives orders, we must be extra careful. Better turn up earlier and leave later everyday, working hard this month and resting afterwards, in order not to lose face. You know what a tenor she is, sour-faced, hard-hearted and no respecter of persons once she’s angry.” They agreed, and one said with a laugh, “actually we need her to get this place into shape. Things are too out of hand.” Just then Prosperity’s wife came along with a tally and a receipt for the amount required, to fetch sacrificial paper and paper for supplications and prayers. They made her take a seat and have some tea while someone went for the amount required and carried it for her to the inner gate, where he handed it over to her to take inside. Then Sister Phoenix ordered Sunshine to prepare a register and sent for Prosperity’s wife to bring her a list of the staff. She announced that all the men-servants’ wives were to come to her early the next morning for instructions. After checking quickly through the list and asking Prosperity’s wife some questions, she went home in her carriage. She was back at half past six the next morning to find all the old serving women and stewards’ wives assembled. They did not venture into the antechamber when they saw that Sister Phoenix and Prosperity’s wife were busy assigning tasks, but from outside the window they heard her tell the latter: “Since I have been put in charge here, I dare say I shall make myself unpopular. I’m not as good-tempered as your own mistress who lets you do what you want to do; So don’t tell me how things used to be managed here, but just do as I command. If you disobeyed my order, I will deal with you publicly, no matter how much face the offender may have.”

=Wú Xīnxīn 吴欣欣=
说罢，便吩咐彩明念花名册，接名一个一个叫进来看视，一时看完，又吩咐
道：“这二十个分作两班，一班十个，每日在内单管人客来往倒茶，别事不用他们管。这二十个也分作两班，每日单管本家亲戚茶饭，也不管别事。这四十个人
也分作两班，单在灵前上香添油，挂幔守灵，供饭供茶，随起举哀，也不管别事。
这四个人专在内荼房收管杯碟茶器，若少了一件，四人分赔。这四个人单管酒
饭器皿，少一件也是分赔。这八个人单管收祭礼。这八个单管各处灯油、蜡烛、
纸札，我总支了来，交与你八个人，然后按我的定数再往各处分派。这二十个每
日轮流各处上夜，照管门户，监察火烛，打扫地方。这下剩的按房分开，某人守
某处，某处所有桌椅古玩起，至于痰盒掸帚，一草一苗，或丢或坏，就问这看守之人赔补。来升家的每日揽总查看，或有偷懒的，赌钱吃酒打架拌嘴的，立刻来回我。你要徇情，经我查出，三四辈子的老脸，就顾不成了。如今都有了定规，以后那一行乱了，只和那一行说话。素日跟我的人，随身俱有钟表，不论大小事，
皆有一定时刻，横竖你们上房里也有时辰钟：卯正二刻我来点卯，巳正吃早饭，
凡有领牌回事的，只在午初二刻。成初烧过黄昏纸，我亲到各处查一遍，回来上
夜的交明钥匙。第二日仍是卯正二刻过来。说不得咱们大家辛苦这几日罢，事
完了，你们大爷自然赏你们的。”

Having concluded these remarks， she went on to order Colorful Light to read the roll; and, as their names were uttered, one by one was called in, and passed under inspection. After this inspection, which was got over in a short time, she continued giving further directions. "These twenty，" she said "should be divided into two companies； ten in each company， whose sole daily duties should be to attend inside to the guests， coming and going， and to serve tea for them； while with any other matters， they needn't have anything to do. These other twenty should also be divided into two companies， whose exclusive duties will be， day after day， to look after the tea and eatables of the relatives of our family； and these too will have no business to concern themselves with outside matters. These forty will again be divided into two companies， who will have nothing else to look to than to remain in front of the coffin and offer incense， renew the oil， hang up the streamers， watch the coffin， offer sacrifices of rice， and oblations of tea， and mourn with the mourners； and neither need they mind anything outside these duties. These four servants will be specially attached to the inner tea-rooms to look after cups， saucers and the tea articles generally； and in the event of the loss of any single thing， the four of them will have to make it good between them. These other four servants will have the sole charge of the articles required for eatables and wine； and should any get mislaid compensation will have likewise to be made by them. These eight servants will only have to attend to taking over the sacrificial offerings； while these eight will have nothing more to see to beyond keeping an eye over the lamps， oil， candles and paper wanted everywhere. I'll have a whole supply served out and handed to you eight to by and by apportion to the various places， in quantities which I will determine. These thirty servants are each day， by rotation， to keep watch everywhere during the night， looking after the gates and windows， taking care of the fires and candles， and sweeping the grounds； while the servants， who remain， are to be divided for duty in the houses and rooms， each one having charge of a particular spot. And beginning from the tables， chairs and curios in each place， up to the very cuspidors and brooms， yea even to each blade of grass or sprout of herb， which may be there， the servants looking after this part will be called upon to make good anything that may be either mislaid or damaged. You， Lai Sheng's wife， will every day have to exercise general supervision and inspection； and should there be those who be lazy， any who may gamble， drink， fight or wrangle， come at once and report the matter to me； and you mustn't show any leniency， for if I come to find it out， I shall have no regard to the good old name of three or four generations， which you may enjoy. You now all have your fixed duties， so that whatever batch of you after this acts contrary to these orders， I shall simply have something to say to that batch and to no one else. The servants， who have all along been in my service， carry watches on their persons， and things， whether large or small， are invariably done at a fixed time. But， in any case， you also have clocks in your master's rooms， so that at 6.30， I shall come and read the roll， and at ten you'll have breakfast. Whenever there is any indent of any permits to be made or any report to be submitted， it should be done at 11.30 a.m. and no later. At 7 p.m.， after the evening paper has been burnt， I shall come to each place in person to hold an inspection； and on my return， the servants on watch for the night will hand over the keys. The next day， I shall again come over at 6.30 in the morning； and needless to say we must all do the best we can for these few days； and when the work has been finished your master is sure to recompense you."

Having concluded these remarks， she went on to order Colorful Light to read the roll; and, as their names were uttered, one by one was called in, and passed under inspection. After this inspection, which was got over in a short time, she continued giving further directions. "These twenty，" she said "should be divided into two companies； ten in each company， whose sole daily duties should be to attend inside to the guests， coming and going， and to serve tea for them； while with any other matters， they needn't have anything to do. These other twenty should also be divided into two companies， whose exclusive duties will be， day after day， to look after the tea and meals of the relatives of our family； and these too will have no business to concern themselves with outside matters. These forty will again be divided into two companies， who will have nothing else to look to than to remain in front of the coffin and offer incense， renew the oil， hang up the streamers， watch the coffin， offer sacrifices of rice， and oblations of tea， and mourn with the mourners； and neither need they mind anything outside these duties. These four servants will be specially attached to the inner tea-rooms to look after cups， saucers and the tea articles generally； and in the event of the loss of any single thing， the four of them will have to make it good between them. These other four servants will have the sole charge of the articles required for eatables and wine； and should any get mislaid compensation will have likewise to be made by them. These eight servants will only have to attend to taking over the sacrificial offerings； while these eight will have nothing more to see to beyond keeping an eye over the lamps， oil， candles and paper wanted everywhere. I'll have a whole supply served out and handed to you eight to by and by apportion to the various places， in quantities which I will determine. These thirty servants are each day， by rotation， to keep watch everywhere during the night， looking after the gates and windows， taking care of the fires and candles， and sweeping the grounds； while the servants， who remain， are to be divided for duty in the houses and rooms， each one having charge of a particular spot. And beginning from the tables， chairs and curios in each place， up to the very cuspidors and brooms， yea even to each blade of grass or sprout of herb， which may be there， the servants looking after this part will be called upon to make good anything that may be either mislaid or damaged. You， Lai Sheng's wife， will every day have to exercise general supervision and inspection； and should there be those who be lazy， any who may gamble， drink， fight or wrangle， come at once and report the matter to me； and you mustn't show any leniency， for if I come to find it out， I shall have no regard to the good old name of three or four generations， which you may enjoy. You now all have your fixed duties， so that whatever batch of you after this acts contrary to these orders， I shall simply have something to say to that batch and to no one else. The servants， who have all along been in my service， carry watches on their persons， and things， whether large or small， are invariably done at a fixed time. But， in any case， you also have clocks in your master's rooms， so that at 6.30， I shall come and read the roll， and at ten you'll have breakfast. Whenever there is any indent of any permits to be made or any report to be submitted， it should be done at 11.30 a.m. and no later. At 7 p.m.， after the evening paper has been burnt， I shall come to each place in person to hold an inspection； and on my return， the servants on watch for the night will hand over the keys. The next day， I shall again come over at 6.30 in the morning； and needless to say we must all do the best we can for these few days； and when the work has been finished your master is sure to recompense you."--[[User:Yao Yang|Yao Yang]] ([[User talk:Yao Yang|talk]]) 16:05, 14 June 2021 (UTC)

=Yāo Yáng 么阳=
说毕，又吩咐按数发与茶叶、油烛、鸡毛掸子、笤帚等物，一面又搬取家伙：
桌围、椅搭、坐褥，毡席、痰盒、脚踏之类，一面交发，一面提笔登记，某人管某处，某人领物件，开得十分清楚。众人领了去，也都有了投奔，不似先时只拣便宜的做，剩下苦差没个招揽。各房中也不能趁乱迷失东西。便是人来客往，也都安静了，不比先前紊乱无头绪，一切偷安窃取等弊，一概都蠲了。

凤姐自己威重令行．心中十分得意。因见尤氏犯病，贾珍也过于悲哀，不
大进饮食，自己每日从那府中熬了各样细粥，精美小菜，令人送来劝食。贾珍也
另外吩咐每日送上等菜到抱厦内，单与凤姐。凤姐不畏勤劳，天天按时刻过来，
点卯理事，独在抱厦内起坐，不与众妯娌合群，便有眷客来往，也不迎送。

这日乃五七正五日上，那应佛惜正开方破狱，传灯照亡，参阎君，拘都鬼，延
请地藏王，开金桥，引幢幡；那道士们正伏章申表，朝三清，叩玉帝，禅僧们行香，放焰口，拜水忏；又有十二众青年尼僧，搭绣衣，靸红鞋，在灵前默诵接引诸咒，十分热闹。

那凤姐知道今日人客不少，寅正便起来梳洗，及收抬完备，更衣盥手，喝了
几口奶子，漱口已毕，正是卯正二刻了。来旺媳妇率领众人伺候已久。
After talking, he ordered the tea leaves, oil candles, feather dusters, brooms and other things to be distributed according to the number, and at the same time he took out the objects: table circumference, chair, sitting mat, felt mat, sputum box, footrest, etc., and handed over at the same time, while holding a pen to register clearly who was in charge of a place, who took an object. Everyone took something, and all of them turned around. It's not like before when they only chose the cheapest, and there was nothing left to recruit, nothing lost in the chaos in each room. Even when people come and go, they are all quiet, no more chaotic and clueless than before, and all the evils such as stealing are all diminished.
Xi Feng saw her own majesty, feeling very proud. Seeing Ms.You's illness, Zhen Merchant was too sad and eat little. She cooked all kinds of porridge and exquisite side dishes from the house every day, which was sent for persuasion. Zhen Merchant also ordered the delivery of high-quality dishes every day, only to Lady Feng. Lady Feng was not afraid of industrious work, came on time every day, clicked on the directors, sat up in the holding hall alone, don't gregarious with all the wives,even there will be guests coming and going, they will not be greeted.
This day is the Thiry-fifth Day after Death, and the Buddha should open the way to break the hell, pass the lamp to the death, visit Yama , arrest the ghost, invite Ksitigarbha, open the golden bridge, and erect the flags; the Taoist priests were on the ground , appealed to the Three Qing Dynasty, knocked on the Jade Emperor, the monks performed incense, let off the flames, and worshipped water; there were also twelve young nuns,

After talking, he figured how to distribute the tea leaves, oil candles, feather dusters, brooms and other things according to the number, and at the same time he asked others to take out the table circumferences, chairs, sitting mats, felt mats, sputum boxes, footrest, etc., and handed over at the same time, deciding and writing down who was in charge of a place and who took an object. Everyone took something, and all of them turned around. It's not like before when they only chose the cheapest, and there was nothing left to recruit, and nothing lost in the chaos in each room. Even when people came and left, they were all quiet, no more chaotic and clueless than before, and all the evils such as stealing were all diminished. Sister Phoenix saw her own majesty, feeling very proud. Knowing the You's illness, Zhen Merchant was so sad that he ate little. She cooked all kinds of porridge and exquisite side dishes in the house every day, which was sent for persuasion. Zhen Merchant also ordered the delivery of high-quality dishes every day, only to Lady Feng. Lady Feng was not afraid of industrious work, came on time every day, clicked on the directors, sat up in the holding hall alone, did not get together with all the maids. There would be guests coming and leaving, they would not be greeted. This day was the Thiry-fifth Day after Death, and the Buddha should open the way to break the hell, pass the lamp to the death, visit Yama, arrest the ghost, invite Ksitigarbha, open the golden bridge, and erect the flags; the Taoist priests were on the ground, appealing to the Three Qing Dynasty, knocked on the Jade Emperor, the monks performed incense, let off the flames, and worshipped water; there were also twelve young nuns,----[[User:Yi Mingxia|Yi Mingxia]] ([[User talk:Yi Mingxia|talk]])
After talking, he figured how to distribute the tea leaves, oil candles, feather dusters, brooms and other things according to the number, and at the same time he asked others to take out the table circumferences, chairs, sitting mats, felt mats, sputum boxes, footrest, etc., and handed over at the same time, deciding and writing down who was in charge of a place and who took an object. Everyone took something, and all of them turned around. It's not like before when they only chose the cheapest, and there was nothing left to recruit, and nothing lost in the chaos in each room. Even when people came and left, they were all quiet, no more chaotic and clueless than before, and all the evils such as stealing were all diminished. Sister Phoenix saw her own majesty, feeling very proud. Knowing Madam Outstanding’s illness, Treasure Merchant was so sad that he ate little. She cooked all kinds of porridge and exquisite side dishes in the house every day, which was sent for persuasion. Treasure Merchant also ordered the delivery of high-quality dishes every day, only to Phoenix. Phoenix was not afraid of industrious work, came on time every day, clicked on the directors, sat up in the holding hall alone, did not get together with all the maids. There would be guests coming and leaving, they would not be greeted. This day was the Thiry-fifth Day after Death, and the Buddha should open the way to break the hell, pass the lamp to the death, visit Yama, arrest the ghost, invite Ksitigarbha, open the golden bridge, and erect the flags; the Taoist priests were on the ground, appealing to the Three Qing Dynasty, knocked on the Jade Emperor, the monks performed incense, let off the flames, and worshipped water; there were also twelve young nuns wearing embroidered clothes and red shoes, who read silently in front of the supernatural spirit. What an exciting scene. Sister Phoenix knew there were many guests today, so she got up at 4 o’clock , cleaned herself and drank some milk. After that, it was half past six. Her servant, Prosperity’s Wife, had waited for a long time with other servants.
--[[User:Yao Yang|Yao Yang]] ([[User talk:Yao Yang|talk]]) 07:33, 27 April 2021 (UTC)

=Yì Míngxiá 易明霞=
凤姐出至厅前，上了车，前面一对明角灯，上写“荣国府”三个大字。来至宁府大门首，门灯朗挂，两边一色矗灯，照如白昼，白汪汪穿孝家人两行侍立。请车至正门上，小厮退去，众媳妇上来揭起车帘。凤姐下了车，一手扶着丰儿，两个媳妇执着手把灯照着，撮拥凤姐进来。宁府诸媳妇迎着请安。风姐款步入会芳园中登仙閣灵前，一见棺材，那眼泪恰似断线之珠，滚将下来。院中多少小厮垂手侍立，伺候烧纸。凤姐吩咐一声：“供茶烧纸。”只听一棒锣鸣，诸乐齐奏，早有人端过一张大圈椅来，放在灵前，凤姐坐了放声大哭，于是里外上下男女都接声嚎哭。

一时贾珍、尤氏令人劝止，凤姐方止住。来旺媳妇倒茶濑口毕，凤姐方起
身，别了族中诸人，自人抱厦来，接名查点，各项人数，俱已到齐，只有迎送亲客上的一人未到，即令传来。那人惶恐，凤姐冷笑道：“原来是你误了！你比他们有体面，所以不听我的话。”那人回道：“小的天天都来的早，只有今儿来迟了一步，求奶奶饶过初次。”正说着，只见荣国府中的王兴媳妇来了，在前探头。凤姐且不发放这人，却问：“王兴媳妇来作什么？”王兴媳妇近前说：“领牌取线，打车轿网络。”说着将个帖儿递上去，

Sister Phoenix went out of the hall and got on the carriage in front of which had a couple of claw lamps with Thriving Country Mansion written on it. There were door lamps hanging on both sides of the Peace mansion’s main door, lighting up the darkness. When they arrived at the outside of the Peace mansion, the families clad in white stood on both sides of the door. Sister Feng was invited to enter the mansion through the main door. After the servants went away, the housemaids helped lift the curtain of the carriage. Then, Sister Phoenix got off with one hand holding the door and on hand holding the maid, Little Feng. She entered the mansion with a swarm of maids and two maids lighting the road in front of her. The maids of the Peace mansion came and greeted Sister Phoenix. Sister Phoenix marched in the Flagrant yard and stood in the front of the Immortal hall. Tears burst out as she saw the coffin. Lots of servants stood on the yard, waiting for order and burning the hell money. Sister Feng commanded, “Serve the tea and burn the hell money.” After a loud strike of the gong, the symphony for the dead began. At the same time, Sister Feng sat in a big chair which had been placed in the front of the mourning hall in advance cried out loudly. Then, all of the people there all cried out of breath.
It was not until Treasure Merchant and the You asked people to persuade her to stop crying that did Sister Phoenix no longer cry. After being served tea by the Lai Wang’s maids and cleared her mouth, Sister Phoenix got up and said goodbye to the families. Then, she went to a special hall and checked the attendance of the people. Then, she found all the people had arrived except for a servant who was at the position of greeting and sending guests. Then, she asked someone to tell him that he should come here right now. That person was frightened. And Sister Phoenix sniffed and said, “It turned out that you were the one who got late. It seems that you are more decent than others so that you can disobey my orders.” The people replied, “Every day, I came here very early, except for today. I hope that you could forgive me for my first-time making mistake.” As the on was explaining, the maid Wang Xing came, watching from the door. Sister Phoenix did not allow her to come in and asked her, “What do you want to do?” The maid came near and said, “I came here to get the sign to withdraw the money for procurement.” Then, she gave the letter to her.

Sister Phoenix went out of the hall and got on the carriage, in front of which had a couple of claw lamps with Thriving Country Mansion written on it. There were lamps hanging on both sides of the Peace mansion’s main door, lighting up the darkness. When they arrived at the outside of the Peace mansion, the families clad in white stood on both sides of the door. Sister Feng was invited to enter the mansion through the main door. After the servants went away, the housemaids helped lift the curtain of the carriage. Then, Sister Phoenix got off with one hand holding the door and the other hand holding the maid, Little Feng. She entered the mansion with a swarm of maids, two maids lighting the road in front of her. The maids of the Peace mansion came and greeted Sister Phoenix. Sister Phoenix marched in the Flagrant yard and stood in the front of the Immortal hall. Tears burst out as she saw the coffin. Lots of servants stood on the yard, waiting for order and burning the hell money. Sister Feng commanded, “Serve the tea and burn the hell money.” After a loud strike of the gong, the symphony for the dead began. At the same time, Sister Feng sat in a big chair which had been placed in the front of the mourning hall in advance cried out loudly. Then, all of the people there all cried out of breath. It was not until Treasure Merchant and the You asked people to persuade her to stop crying that did Sister Phoenix no longer cry. After being served tea by the Lai Wang’s maids and cleared her mouth, Sister Phoenix got up and said goodbye to the families. Then, she went to a special hall and checked the attendance of the people. Then, she found all the people had arrived except for a servant who was at the position of greeting and sending guests. Then, she asked someone to tell him that he should come here right now. That person was frightened. And Sister Phoenix sniffed and said, “It turned out that you were the one who got late. It seems that you are more decent than others so that you can disobey my orders.”The people replied, “Every day, I came here very early, except for today. I hope that you could forgive me for my first mistake.” As he was explaining, the maid Rising King came and watched from the door. Sister Phoenix did not allow her to come in and asked her, “What do you want to do?” The maid came near and said, “I came here to get the sign to withdraw the money for procurement.” Then, she gave the letter to her.--[[User:Yuan Jing|Yuan Jing]] ([[User talk:Yuan Jing|talk]]) 06:26, 21 April 2021 (UTC)

Sister Phoenix went out of the hall and got on the carriage in front of which had a couple of claw lamps with Thriving Country Mansion written on it. There were door lamps hanging on both sides of the Peace mansion’s main door, lighting up the darkness. When they arrived at the outside of the Peace mansion, the families clad in white stood on both sides of the door. Sister Feng was invited to enter the mansion through the main door. After the servants went away, the housemaids helped lift the curtain of the carriage. Then, Sister Phoenix got off with one hand holding the door and on hand holding the maid, Little Feng. She entered the mansion with a swarm of maids and two maids lighting the road in front of her. The maids of the Peace mansion came and greeted Sister Phoenix. Sister Phoenix marched in the Flagrant yard and stood in the front of the Immortal hall. Tears burst out as she saw the coffin. Lots of servants stood on the yard, waiting for order and burning the hell money. Sister Feng commanded, “Serve the tea and burn the hell money.” After a loud strike of the gong, the symphony for the dead began. At the same time, Sister Phoenix sat in a big chair which had been placed in the front of the mourning hall in advance cried out loudly. Then, all of the people there all cried out of breath. It was not until Treasure Merchant and the You asked people to persuade her to stop crying that did Sister Phoenix no longer cry. After being served tea by the maid, Prosperity, and cleared her mouth, Sister Phoenix got up and said goodbye to the families. Then, she went to a special hall and checked the attendance of the people. Then, she found all the people had arrived except for a servant who was at the position of greeting and sending guests. Then, she asked someone to tell him that he should come here right now. That person was frightened. And Sister Phoenix sniffed and said, “It turned out that you were the one who got late. It seems that you are more decent than others so that you can disobey my orders.” The people replied, “Every day, I came here very early, except for today. I hope that you could forgive me for my first-time making mistake.” As the on was explaining, the maid Rising King came, watching from the door. Sister Phoenix did not allow her to come in and asked her, “What do you want to do?” The maid came near and said, “I came here to get the sign to withdraw the money for procurement.” Then, she gave the letter to her.----[[User:Yi Mingxia|Yi Mingxia]] ([[User talk:Yi Mingxia|talk]])

=Yuán Jìng 袁静=
凤姐令彩明念道：“大轿两顶，小轿四顶，车四辆，共用大小络子若干根，每根用珠儿线若干斤。”凤姐听了数目相合，便命彩明登记，取荣国对牌掷下。王兴家的去了。

凤姐方欲说话，只见荣国府的四个执事人进来，都是要支取东西领牌的，凤姐命他们要了帖念过，听了一共四件，因指两件道：“这个开销错了，再算清了来领。”说着将帖子掷下。那二人扫兴而去。

凤姐因见张材家的在旁，因问：“你有什么事？”张材家的忙取帖子回道：
“就是方才车轿围做成，领取裁缝工银若干两。”凤姐听了，收了帖子，命彩明登记。待王兴交过，得了买办的回押相符，然后与张材家的去领。一面又命念那
一件，是为宝玉外书房完峻，支领买纸料糊裱。凤姐听了．即命收帖儿登记，待
张材家的缴清再发。

凤姐便说道：“明儿他也来迟了，后儿我也来迟了，将来都没有人了。本来
要饶你，只是我头一次宽了，下次就难管别人了，不如开发的好。”登时放下睑
来，命带出去打二十板子，众人见凤姐--[[User:Zhao Ke|Zhao Ke]] ([[User talk:Zhao Ke|talk]]) 09:27, 18 April 2021 (UTC)动怒，不敢怠慢，拉出去照数打了，进来回复；凤姐又掷下宁府对牌：“说与来升革他一月银米。”吩咐：“散了罢。”众人方各自办事去了。那时被打之人亦含羞饮泣而去。彼时荣宁两处领牌交牌人往来不绝，凤姐又一一开发了。
Sister Phoenix ordered Colorful Light to read out the number of strings of beads and tassels. She said, “It needs two palanquin and four sedan-chairs as well as four carriages. Finding the figures correct, Sister Phoenix told Colorful Light to register them and and gave a Rong Mansion tally to Wang Xing's wife, who left then. Before Sister Phoenix could say something there came four stewards from the Rong Mansion with intents for stores. Sister Phoenix had their orders read out and pointed at two of the four items. "These figures are wrong. Come back when you have worked them out correctly. "The two stewards whose intents she tossed back withdrew very sheepishly. Then she noticed Zhang Material's wife and asked her business. The woman handed her an order form, saying, "The covers for the carriages and Sedan-chairs are finished, and I have come for the money for the tailor. " King Phoenix told Colorful Light to enter this, and when Wang prosperity's wife had returned the tally and fetched the accountant's receipt for the right sum Zhang Material's wife was sent to get the money. Another order for wall-paper to paper Precious Jade's outer study was read out and registered. After Zhang Material's wife has finished her business and returned the tally, the other was sent with it to get Wall-paper. Then she said, "If you are late today and I'm late tomorrow, there will soon be nobody here. I should have liked to let you off, but if I overlook the first offence, the others will get out of hand. I shall be obliged to make an example of you. " With a stern look, she ordered the woman to be taken out and given twenty strokes with bamboo. She then threw down the Ning Mansion tally and gave orders that Advancement should dock this usher of a month's wages. When the others heard this and saw Sister Phoenix's angry frown, they dared not show slackness in carrying out her orders. Some hastily dragged out the woman; others passed on the order to Lai Sheng. After the usher had been given twenty strokes she had to turn to kowtow to Sister Phoenix. Then she dismissed the servants. After a while, a steady stream of domestics from both mansions kept coming to hand in or apply for intents, while the woman who had been beaten left shamefully. --[[User:Yuan Jing|Yuan Jing]] ([[User talk:Yuan Jing|talk]]) 04:22, 18 April 2021 (UTC)

Sister Phoenix ordered Colorful Light to read out the number of strings of beads and tassels. She said, “It needs two palanquin and four sedan-chairs as well as four carriages. Finding the figures correct, Sister Phoenix told Colorful Light to register them and and gave a Rong Mansion tally to Wang Xing's wife, who left then. Before Sister Phoenix could say something there came four stewards from the Rong Mansion with intents for stores. Sister Phoenix had their orders read out and pointed at two of the four items. "These figures are wrong. Come back when you have worked them out correctly. "The two stewards whose intents she tossed back withdrew very sheepishly. Then she noticed Zhang Cai's wife and asked her business. The woman handed her an order form, saying, "The covers for the carriages and Sedan-chairs are finished, and I have come for the money for the tailor. " King Phoenix told Colorful Light to enter this, and when Wang Xing's wife returned the tally and fetched the accountant's receipt for the right sum Zhang Cai's wife was sent to get the money. Another order for wall-paper to paper Precious Jade's outer study was read out and registered. After Zhang Cai's wife has finished her business and returned the tally, the other was sent with it to get Wall-paper. Then she said, "If you are late today and I'm late tomorrow, there will soon be nobody here. I should have liked to let you off, but if I overlook the first offence, the others will get out of hand. I shall be obliged to make an example of you. " With a stern look, she ordered the woman to be taken out and given twenty strokes by bamboo. She then threw down the Ning Mansion tally and gave orders that Lai Sheng should dock this usher of a month's wages. When others heard this and saw Sister Phoenix's angry frown, they dared not show slackness in carrying out her orders. Some hastily dragged out the woman; others passed on the order to Lai Sheng. After the usher had been given twenty strokes she had to turn to kowtow towards Sister Phoenix. Then she dismissed the servants. After a while, a steady stream of domestics from both mansions kept coming to hand in or apply for intents, while the woman who had been beaten left shamefully.--[[User:Zhao Ke|Zhao Ke]] ([[User talk:Zhao Ke|talk]]) 09:27, 18 April 2021 (UTC)

=Zhào Kē 赵轲 Mr.=
于是宁府中人才知凤姐利害，自此各兢兢业业，不敢偷安，不在话下。

如今且说宝玉，因见人众，恐秦钟受了委曲，遂同他往凤姐处坐坐，凤姐正
吃饭，见他们来了，笑道：“好长腿子，快上来罢。”宝玉道：“我们偏了。”凤姐道：“在这边外头吃的，还是那边吃的？”宝玉道：“同那些浑人吃什么！原是那边，我还同老太太吃了来的。”说著，一面归坐。

凤姐饭毕，就有宁府一个媳妇来领牌，为支取香灯，凤姐笑道：“我算着你
今儿该来支取，想是忘了。要终久忘了，自然是你包出来，都便宜了我。”那媳妇笑道：“何尝不是忘了，方才想起来，再迟一步，也领不成了。”说毕，领牌而去。

一时登记变牌。秦钟因笑道：“你们两府里都是这牌，倘别人私造一个，支
了银子去，怎样？”凤姐笑道：“依你说，都没王法了。”宝玉因道：“怎么咱们家没人来领牌子支东西？”凤姐道：“他们来领的时候，你还做梦呢。我且问你，你们多早晚才念夜书呢？”宝玉道：“巴不得今日就念才好，只是他们不快给收拾出书房，也是没法。”凤姐笑道：“你请我一请，包管就快了。”宝玉道：“你也不中用，他们该做到那里的时候，自然有了。”凤姐道：“就是他们做也得要东西，搁不住我不给对牌，是难的。”

Then those who belonged to Ning Mansion knew Sister Phoenix's fierceness. They did their own work and did not dare to be lazy, of course.
Now Precious Jade met them, being afraid that Qin Zhong may suffer wrong, and sat towards Sister Phoenix with him. Sister Phoenix was eating and saw them, "How fast you are! Come here." Precious Jade said, "Our way is slanting. " Sister Phoenix said, "Where did you eat, out of here or there?" Precious Jade said, "Why should we eat with those bastards? I ate with an old woman there." With his words, he sat down.

After eating, there is a woman in Ning Mansion to get a plate for drawing a Fragrance lighting. Sister Phoenix smiled, "I consider that you will come to draw it today, and you may forget it. If you forget it forever, then I take advantage of you." The woman smiled, "I do forget, but I just recall it. If I come here later, I think I can not get it, too. " She went away after saying the words.

When they registered the plate, Qin Zhong smiled, "Both your plates are like this. If someone makes it on his own, he takes the money away. How about that?" Sister Phoenix said, "If it is that, there is no rules." Precious Jade said, "Why do not our servants come to get something?" Sister Phoenix replied, "When they are here, you are still dreaming. Well, I ask you one thing. When will you start to study?" Precious Jade said, "I would like to start today. But they have not cleared up the schoolroom. That's the problem." Sister Phoenix said, "You can ask me for help. It will be down as soon as possible." Precious Jade said, "You can not do that, too. When they finished their things, it will be down naturally." Sister Phoenix said, "It is that they should do things with right plate. It will be difficult with wrong plate."--[[User:Zhao Ke|Zhao Ke]] ([[User talk:Zhao Ke|talk]]) 09:21, 18 April 2021 (UTC)

Then those who belonged to Peace Mansion knew Sister Phoenix's fierceness. They did their own work and did not dare to be lazy, of course.
Now Precious Jade met them, being afraid that Frivolity Bell may suffer wrong, and sat towards Sister Phoenix with him. Sister Phoenix was eating and saw them, "How fast you are! Come here." Precious Jade said, "Our way is slanting. " Sister Phoenix said, "Where did you eat, out of here or there?" Precious Jade said, "Why should we eat with those bastards? I ate with an old woman there." With his words, he sat down.

After eating, there is a woman in Peace Mansion to get a plate for drawing a Fragrance lighting. Sister Phoenix smiled, "I consider that you will come to draw it today, and you may forget it. If you forget it forever, then I take advantage of you." The woman smiled, "I do forget, but I just recall it. If I come here later, I think I can not get it, too. " She went away after saying the words.

When they registered the plate, Frivolity Bell smiled, "Both your plates are like this. If someone makes it on his own, he takes the money away. How about that?" Sister Phoenix said, "If it is that, there is no rules." Precious Jade said, "Why do not our servants come to get something?" Sister Phoenix replied, "When they are here, you are still dreaming. Well, I ask you one thing. When will you start to study?" Precious Jade said, "I would like to start today. But they have not cleared up the schoolroom. That's the problem." Sister Phoenix said, "You can ask me for help. It will be down as soon as possible." Precious Jade said, "You can not do that, too. When they finished their things, it will be down naturally." Sister Phoenix said, "It is that they should do things with right plate. It will be difficult with wrong plate."--[[User:Zhao Ke|Zhao Ke]] ([[User talk:Zhao Ke|talk]]) 13:45, 26 April 2021 (UTC)

=Bào Qìnwén 鲍沁雯=
宝玉听说，便猴向凤姐身上立刻要牌，说：“好姐姐，给他们牌，好支东西去收拾。”凤姐道：“我乏的身上生疼，还搁的住你这揉搓？你放心罢，今儿才领了裱糊纸去了，他们该要的还等叫去呢，可不傻了？”宝玉不信，凤姐便叫彩明查册子与宝玉看了。

正闹着，人来回：“苏州去的昭儿来了。”凤姐急命唤进来。昭儿打千儿请
安。凤姐便问：“回来做什么的？”昭儿道：“二爷打发回来的。林姑老爷是九月初三巳时没的。二爷带了林姑娘同送林姑爷的灵到苏州，大约赶年底就回来。
二爷打发小的来报个信请安，讨老太太示下。还瞧瞧奶奶家里好，叫把大毛衣
服带几件去。”凤姐道：“你见过别人了没有？”昭儿道：“都见过了。”说毕，连忙退出。凤姐向宝玉笑道：“你林妹妹可在咱们家住长了。”宝玉道：“了不得，想来这几日他不知哭的怎样呢。”说着蹙眉长叹。

凤姐见昭儿回来，因当着人不及细问贾琏，心中自是记挂，待要回去，奈事
未了毕，少不得耐到晚上回来，复令昭儿进来，细问一路平安信息。连夜打点大
毛衣服，和平儿亲自检点包囊，再细细追想所需何物，一并包裹交付昭儿。又细
细吩咐昭儿：“在外好生小心伏侍，不要惹你二爷生气。时时劝他少吃酒，别勾
引他认得混账女人，———回来打折你的腿！”
Precious Jade cuddled up to her at that and coaxed, "Dear cousin, do give them the tally so that they can get what they need." “I'm so tired, my bones are aching,” protested Sister Phoenix. “Must you jostle me like that? Don’t worry, they’ve just taken the wall-paper for your study. You must be crazy if you think they need telling when to ask." When Precious Jade refused to believe this she made Caiming show him the record. Just then someone announced that Zhaoer was back from Suzhou and Sister Phoenix promptly ordered him to be brought in. Zhaoer fell on one knee to greet her. “Why have you come back?" she asked. “The master sent me, madam. Lord Lin died on the third of the ninth month, at nine in the morning. The master and Miss Lin are escorting his coffin to Suzhou and should be home about the end of the year. He sent me to bring the news with his greetings and to ask for the old lady’s instructions. I was to see, too, if you were well at home, madam, and to take back some of his fur-lined gowns." “Have you reported to the other ladies?" "Yes, madam. Everyone." With that he withdrew. Sister Phoenix turned to Precious Jade with a smile. "Now your cousin Daiyu can stay with us a good long time." "Poor thing!" exclaimed Precious Jade. “Think how much she must have been crying the last few days." He knit his brows and sighed. Sister Phoenix was anxious for news of her husband but had not liked to question Zhaoer too closely in the presence of others. Tempted to go home but kept by unfinished business and afraid of making herself look ridiculous, she had to restrain her impatience until the evening, when she summoned Zhaoer to give her all the particulars of their journey. That same night she got Pinger to help her select some fur-lined clothes and carefully thought out what else her husband might need. Having packed these things together she handed them to Zhaoer and cautioned him: “Mind you look after your master properly outside and don't make him angry. Try to keep him from drinking too much, and don’t pander to him by finding him loose women-if you do, I’ll break your legs when you get back."

Precious Jade cuddled up to her at that and coaxed, "Dear cousin, do give them the tally so that they can get what they need." “I'm so tired, my bones are aching,” protested Sister Phoenix. “Must you jostle me like that? Don’t worry, they’ve just taken the wall-paper for your study. You must be crazy if you think they need telling when to ask." When Precious Jade refused to believe this she made Colorful Light show him the record. Just then someone announced that Lucency was back from Suzhou and Sister Phoenix promptly ordered him to be brought in. Lucency fell on one knee to greet her. “Why have you come back?" she asked. “The master sent me, madam. Master Forest died on the third of the ninth month, at nine in the morning. The brother of Master Forest and Miss Forest are escorting his coffin to Suzhou and should be home about the end of the year. He sent me to bring the news with his greetings and to ask for Grandma Merchant’s instructions. I was to see, too, if you were well at home, madam, and to take back some of his fur-lined gowns." “Have you reported to the other ladies?" "Yes, madam. Everyone." With that he withdrew. Sister Phoenix turned to Precious Jade with a smile. "Now your cousin Mascara Jade can stay with us a good long time." "Poor thing!" exclaimed Precious Jade. “Think how much she must have been crying the last few days." He knit his brows and sighed. Sister Phoenix was anxious for news of her husband but had not liked to question Lucency too closely in the presence of others. Tempted to go home but kept by unfinished business and afraid of making herself look ridiculous, she had to restrain her impatience until the evening, when she summoned Lucency to give her all the particulars of their journey. That same night she got Pinger to help her select some fur-lined clothes and carefully thought out what else her husband might need. Having packed these things together she handed them to Patience and cautioned him: “Mind you look after your master properly outside and don't make him angry. Try to keep him from drinking too much, and don’t pander to him by finding him loose women-if you do, I’ll break your legs when you get back."--[[User:Chen Keru|Chen Keru]] ([[User talk:Chen Keru|talk]]) 07:35, 4 June 2021 (UTC)

=Chén Kērǔ 陈柯汝=
赶乱完了，天已四更，睡下，不觉早又天明，忙梳洗过宁府来。

那贾珍因见发引日近，亲自坐车带了阴阳司吏，往铁槛寺来踏看寄灵所
在；又一一嘱咐住持色空好生预备新鲜陈设，多请名憎，以备接灵使用。色空忙
备晚斋，贾珍也无心茶饭，因天晚不及进城，竟在净室胡乱歇了一夜。次日早，
便进城来料理出殡之事；一面又派人先往铁槛寺，连夜另外修饰停灵之处，并厨
茶等项，接灵人口。

凤姐见发引日期在限，也预先逐细分派料理，一面又派荣府中车轿人从跟
王夫人送殡，又顾自己送殡去占下处。目今正值缮国公诰命亡故，邢王二夫人
又去吊祭送殡；西安郡王妃华诞，送寿礼；镇国公诰命生了长男，预备贺礼；又有胞兄王仁连家眷回南，一面写家信禀叩父母并带往之物；又有迎春染疾，每日请医服药，看医生启帖、症源、药案……各事冗杂，亦难尽述。又兼发引在迩，因此忙的凤姐茶饭无心，坐卧不宁。刚到了宁府，荣府的人跟着；既回到荣府，宁府的人又跟着。凤姐虽然如此之忙，只因素性好胜，惟恐落人褒贬，故费尽精神，筹划得十分整齐，于是合族中上下无不称叹。

这日伴宿之夕，里面两班小戏并耍百戏的，与亲朋等伴宿。尤氏犹卧于内
室，一切张罗款待，独是凤姐一人周全承应，

After Phoenix Sister finished her business, it was 1’oclock already. She slept for a little while and found it was soon morning again; so she dressed up quickly and arrived at Ning mansion.

The day of the funeral approaching, Cousin Zhen with Yin Yang officials went to Iron Threshold Temple by carriages to check the place where coffin would be buried. He required the abbot No Sex to prepare new instruments needed carefully, and to invite good monks for receiving the coffin.
No Sex was occupied with supper preparation. Cousin Zhen was not in the mood to eat or drink. As it was late for him to go back home, he slept in a room of the temple casually.
The next morning, he went back home to deal with relevant things about carrying out the coffin upon burial for which he sent people to repair the place timely where coffin would be placed, and arranged teas as well as assistant people needed in Iron Threshold Temple.

The day of carrying out the coffin upon burial approaching, Phoenix Sister dispersed tasks to people in a detailed way in advance. She arranged people and carriages in Rong mansion to accompany Lady Wang when carrying out the coffin. She also made sure that she had a satisfactory place to sleep there.A mass of things happened at this period: the Duke of Shanguo’s wife had just died, Lady Xing and Lady Wang had to send sacrificial gifts and attend her funeral; the birthday presents had to be sent to the consort of the Prince of Xi’an. Then a first son was born to the Duke of Zhengguo and congratulatory gifts had to be sent. Then Phoenix Sister had to write a letter home and prepare gifts for her brother Wang Ren to take when he returned south with his family. Then Welcome Spring fell ill and every day they had to call in doctors, study their diagnoses, discuss the cause of the illness and decide on prescriptions...

As the day of the funeral approached, Phoenix was so occupied that she did not want to eat or drink, and was nervous. When she just arrived at Ning mansion, servants of Rong mansion followed her for an arrangement; when she just came back at the Rong mansion, attendants from Ning mansion asked her for a resolution.Though Phoenix Sister was so busy, she lifted her spirits and arranged everything very well, which was praised by the whole families. She did this because she was a kind of person who wanted to be powerful and was afraid to be criticized.

Now the time had come for the wake. The family’s two troupes of actors and some musicians, dancers and acrobats were to perform a long programme of items, and the place was crowded with relatives and friends. As Madam You was still lying in the inside room, Phoenis Sister took charge of all greetings and disposition.

After Phoenix Sister finished her business, it was 1’oclock already. She slept for a little while and found it was soon morning again; so she dressed up quickly and arrived at Ning mansion.

The day of the funeral approaching, Cousin Zhen with Yin Yang officials went to Iron Threshold Temple by carriages to check the place where coffin would be buried. He required the abbot No Sex to prepare new instruments needed carefully, and to invite good monks for receiving the coffin. No Sex was occupied with supper preparation. Cousin Zhen was not in the mood to eat or drink. As it was late for him to go back home, he slept in a room of the temple casually. The next morning, he went back home to deal with relevant things about carrying out the coffin upon burial for which he sent people to repair the place timely where coffin would be placed, and arranged teas as well as assistant people needed in Iron Threshold Temple.

The day of carrying out the coffin upon burial approaching, Phoenix Sister dispersed tasks to people in a detailed way in advance. She arranged people and carriages in Rong mansion to accompany Lady Wang when carrying out the coffin. She also made sure that she had an appropriate place to stand.A mass of things happened at this period: the Duke of Shanguo’s wife had just died, Lady Xing and Lady Wang had to send sacrificial gifts and attend her funeral; the birthday presents had to be sent to the consort of the Prince of Xi’an; the first son of the Duke of Zhenguo was born and congratulatory gifts had to be sent; Phoenix Sister had to write a letter home and prepare gifts for her brother Wang Ren to take when he returned south with his family; Welcome Spring fell ill and every day they had to call in doctors to study her diagnoses, discuss the cause of the illness and decide on prescriptions..., name a few.

As the day of the funeral approached, Phoenix was so occupied that she did not want to eat or drink, and was too nervous to sit and lie down comfortably. When she just arrived at Ning mansion, servants of Rong mansion followed her for an arrangement; when she just came back at the Rong mansion, attendants from Ning mansion asked her for a resolution.Though Phoenix Sister was so busy, she lifted her spirits and arranged everything very well, which was praised by the whole families. She did this because she was a kind of person who wanted to be powerful and was afraid to be criticized.

Now the time had come for the wake. The family’s two troupes of actors and some musicians, dancers and acrobats were to perform a long programme of items, and the place was crowded with relatives and friends. As Madam You was still lying in the inner room, Phoenis Sister took charge of all greetings and disposition.--[[User:Dai Muyu|Dai Muyu]] ([[User talk:Dai Muyu|talk]]) 05:54, 21 April 2021 (UTC)

After Phoenix Sister finished her business, it was 1’oclock already. She slept for a little while and found it was soon morning again; so she dressed up quickly and arrived at Ning mansion.

The day of the funeral approaching, Treasure Merchant with Yin Yang officials went to Iron Threshold Temple by carriages to check the place where coffin would be buried. He required the abbot No Sex to prepare new instruments needed carefully, and to invite good monks for receiving the coffin. No Sex was occupied with supper preparation. Treasure Merchant was not in the mood to eat or drink. As it was late for him to go back home, he slept in a room of the temple casually. The next morning, he went back home to deal with relevant things about carrying out the coffin upon burial for which he sent people to repair the place timely where coffin would be placed, and arranged teas as well as assistant people needed in Iron Threshold Temple.

The day of carrying out the coffin upon burial approaching, Phoenix Sister dispersed tasks to people in a detailed way in advance. She arranged people and carriages in Rong mansion to accompany Lady King when carrying out the coffin. She also made sure that she had a satisfactory place to sleep there.A mass of things happened at this period: the Duke Repair’s wife had just died, Lady City and Lady King had to send sacrificial gifts and attend her funeral; the birthday presents had to be sent to the consort of the Prince of Xi’an. Then a first son was born to the Duke Conquering A Country and congratulatory gifts had to be sent. Then Phoenix Sister had to write a letter home and prepare gifts for her brother Wang Benevolence to take when he returned south with his family. Then Spring Pleasure Merchant fell ill and every day they had to call in doctors, study their diagnoses, discuss the cause of the illness and decide on prescriptions...

As the day of the funeral approached, Phoenix was so occupied that she did not want to eat or drink, and was nervous. When she just arrived at Ning mansion, servants of Rong mansion followed her for an arrangement; when she just came back at the Rong mansion, attendants from Ning mansion asked her for a resolution.Though Phoenix Sister was so busy, she lifted her spirits and arranged everything very well, which was praised by the whole families. She did this because she was a kind of person who wanted to be powerful and was afraid to be criticized.

Now the time had come for the wake. The family’s two troupes of actors and some musicians, dancers and acrobats were to perform a long programme of items, and the place was crowded with relatives and friends. As Madam Outstanding was still lying in the inside room, Phoenix Sister took charge of all greetings and disposition.--[[User:Chen Keru|Chen Keru]] ([[User talk:Chen Keru|talk]]) 07:36, 4 June 2021 (UTC)

=Dài Mùyǔ 戴沐雨=
台族中虽有许多妯娌，也有羞口羞脚的，也有不惯见人的，也有惧贵怯官的，种种之类，俱不及凤姐举止大雅，言语典则，因此也不把众人放在眼里，挥霍指示，任其所为，旁若无人。一夜中灯明火彩，客送官迎，百般热闹，自不用说。至天明吉时，一般六十四名青衣请灵。前面铭旌上大书：“诰封一等宁国公冢孙妇防护内廷紫禁道御前侍卫龙禁尉享强寿贾门秦氏宜人之灵柩。”一应执事陈设，皆系现赶新做出来的，一色光彩夺目。宝珠自行未嫁女之礼，摔丧驾灵，十分哀苦。

那时官客送殡的，有镇国公牛清之孙现袭一等伯牛继宗，理国公柳彪之孙
现袭一等子柳芳，齐国公陈冀之孙世袭三品威镇将军陈瑞文，治国公马魁之孙
世袭三品威远将军马尚，修国公候晓明之孙世袭一等于侯孝康；缮国公诰命亡
故，其孙石光珠守孝不得来。这六家与荣宁二家，当日所称“八公”的便是。余
者更有南安郡王之孙，西宁郡王之孙，忠靖侯史鼎，平原侯之孙世袭二等男蒋子
宁，定城侯之孙世袭二等男兼京营游击谢鲲，襄阳侯之孙世袭二等男戚建辉，景
田侯之孙五城兵马司裘良。余者锦乡伯公子韩奇、神武将军公子冯紫英，陈也
俊、卫若兰等，诸王孙公子，不可枚数。堂客也共有十来顶大轿，三四十顶小轿，
连家下大小轿车辆，不下百十余乘。

In the whole family, there were many sisters-in-law, some of whom were too shy to speak, some of whom were unaccustomed to the strangers, and some of whom were afraid of the officials. All of them had no capacity of coming up to the standards of Sister Phoenix, achieving her manner and conduct. That’s why she looked down to others, just giving instructions and orders and did what she wants as if there were nobody. In the whole night, the lanterns shined brightly and the fire flickered brilliantly, let alone the jollification together with the guests welcoming the arrival of the officials. At the dawn of the next morning, sixty four people dressed in blue carried the coffin at the appropriate moment. On the funeral streamer, it said: “Coffin of lady Qin, a lady of the fifth degree, (by marriage) of the Merchant mansion, deceased at middle age, consort of the grandson of the Ning Kuo Duke with the first rank title of honour, (whose status is) a guard of the Imperial antechamber, charged with the protection of the Inner Palace and Roads in the Red Prohibited City.” As all of the paraphernalia and ornaments were all brand-new, hurriedly made for the present occasion, the uniform lustrous brilliancy they shed was sufficient to dazzle the eyes. Precious Pearl, who could just observe the rites prescribed for unmarried daughters, dashed the bowl and walked by the coffin sorrowfully.

At that time, among the officials who escorted the funeral procession, were Niu Jizong, the grandson of Zhen Guo duke (Niu Qingzhi), who had now inherited the status of earl of the first degree; Liu Fang, the grandson of the duke of Li Kuo Liu Biao, who had recently inherited the rank of viscount of the first class; Chen Ruiwen, the grandson of Chen Yi, duke of Qi Guo, who held the hereditary rank of general of the third degree, with the prefix of majestic authority; Ma Shang, the grandson of Ma Kui, duke of Zhi Guo, by inheritance general of the third rank with the prefix of majesty afar; Hou Xiaokang, an hereditary viscount of the first degree, grandson of the duke of Xiu Guo, Hou Xiaoming by name; while the death of the consort of the duke of Shan Guo had obliged his grandson Shi Guangchu to go into mourning so that he could not be present. These were the six families which had, along with the two households of Rong and Ning, been, at one time, designated the eight dukes. Among the rest, there were the grandson of the Prince of Nan An; the grandson of the Prince of Xi Ning; Shi Ding, marquis of Zhong Jing; Jiang Zining, an hereditary baron of the second grade, grandson of the earl of Ping Yuan; Xie Kun, an hereditary baron of the second order and Captain of the Metropolitan camp, grandson of the marquis of Ding Cheng; Qi Jianhui, an hereditary baron of the second rank, a grandson of the marquis of Xiang Yang; Si Qiuliang, in command of the Five Cities, grandson of the marquis of Jing Tian. The remainder were Han Qi, the son of the earl of Qin Xiang; Feng Ziying, the son of a general, whose prefix was supernatural martial spirit; Chen Yejun, Wei Ruolan and others, grandsons and sons of princes who could not be counted. As for the ladies, there were also about ten large official sedan chairs, thirty or forty private chairs, and including the official and non-official chairs, and carriages containing inmates of the household, there must have been over a hundred and ten.

In the whole family, there were many sisters-in-law, some of whom were too shy to speak, some of whom were unaccustomed to the strangers, and some of whom were afraid of the officials. None of them could compare with Sister Phoenix with her manner and conduct. That’s why she looked down upon others, just giving instructions and orders and did whatever she wanted as she liked regardless of anyone else. In the whole night, the lanterns shined brightly and the fire flickered brilliantly, let alone the jollification together with the guests welcoming the arrival of the officials. At the dawn of the next morning, sixty four people dressed in blue carried the coffin at the appropriate moment. On the funeral streamer, it said, “Coffin of lady Qin, a lady of the fifth degree, (by marriage) of the Merchant mansion, deceased at middle age, consort of the grandson of the Ning Kuo Duke with the first rank title of honour, (whose status is) a guard of the Imperial antechamber, charged with the protection of the Inner Palace and Roads in the Red Prohibited City.” As all of the paraphernalia and ornaments were all brand-new, hurriedly made for the present occasion, the uniform lustrous brilliancy they shed was sufficient to dazzle the eyes. Precious Pearl, who could just observe the rites prescribed for unmarried daughters, dashed the bowl and walked by the coffin sorrowfully.

At that time, among the officials who escorted the funeral procession, were Niu Jizong, the grandson of Zhen Guo duke (Niu Qingzhi), who had now inherited the status of earl of the first degree; Liu Fang, the grandson of the duke of Li Kuo Liu Biao, who had recently inherited the rank of viscount of the first class; Chen Ruiwen, the grandson of Chen Yi, duke of Qi Guo, who held the hereditary rank of general of the third degree, with the prefix of majestic authority; Ma Shang, the grandson of Ma Kui, duke of Zhi Guo, by inheritance general of the third rank with the prefix of majesty afar; Hou Xiaokang, an hereditary viscount of the first degree, grandson of the duke of Xiu Guo, Hou Xiaoming by name; while the death of the consort of the duke of Shan Guo had obliged his grandson Shi Guangchu to go into mourning so that he could not be present. These were the six families which had, along with the two households of Rong and Ning, been, at one time, designated the eight dukes. Among the rest, there were the grandson of the Prince of Nan An; the grandson of the Prince of Xi Ning; Shi Ding, marquis of Zhong Jing; Jiang Zining, an hereditary baron of the second grade, grandson of the earl of Ping Yuan; Xie Kun, an hereditary baron of the second order and Captain of the Metropolitan camp, grandson of the marquis of Ding Cheng; Qi Jianhui, an hereditary baron of the second rank, a grandson of the marquis of Xiang Yang; Si Qiuliang, in command of the Five Cities, grandson of the marquis of Jing Tian. The remainder were Han Qi, the son of the earl of Qin Xiang; Feng Ziying, the son of a general, whose prefix was supernatural martial spirit; Chen Yejun, Wei Ruolan and others, grandsons and sons of princes who could not be counted. As for the ladies, there were also about ten large official sedan chairs, thirty or forty private chairs, and including the official and non-official chairs, and carriages containing inmates of the household, there must have been over a hundred and ten.--[[User:Deng Dan1|Deng Dan1]] ([[User talk:Deng Dan1|talk]]) 06:27, 9 June 2021 (UTC)

=Dèng Dān 邓丹=
连前面各色执事陈设百耍，浩浩荡荡，一带摆三四里远。

走不多时，路上彩棚高搭，设席张筵，和音奏乐，俱是各家路祭：第一棚是东
平王府的祭，第二棚是南安郡王的祭，第三棚是西宁郡王的祭，第四棚便是北静
郡王的祭。原来这四王，当日惟北静王功最高，及今子孙犹袭王爵。现令北静
王世荣年未弱冠，生得美秀异常，情性谦和。近闻宁国府冢孙妇告殂，因想当日
彼此祖父有相与之情，同难同荣，未以异姓相视，因此不以王位自居，上日也曾
探丧上祭，如今又设路奠，命麾下各官在此伺候。自己五更入朝，公事一毕，便
换了素服，坐大轿，鸣锣张伞而来，至棚前落轿，手下各官两旁拥侍，军民人众不得往还。

一时只见宁府大殡浩浩荡荡、压地银山一般从北而至。早有宁府开路传
事人等报与贾珍，贾珍急命前面住扎，同贾赦贾政三人连忙迎来，以国礼相见。
世荣在轿内欠身，含笑答礼，仍以世交称呼接待，并不自大。贾珍道：“犬妇之
丧，累蒙郡驾下临，荫生辈何以克当。”世荣笑道：“世交至谊，何出此言？”遂回头令长府官主祭代奠。贾赦等一旁还礼，复亲身来谢恩。世荣十分谦逊，因问贾政道：“那一位是衔玉而诞者？久欲得一见为快，今日一定在此，何不请来。”
贾政忙退下，命宝玉更衣，领他前来谒见。

With all kinds of decorations and performances in front, the procession extended about three of four miles away. Before long they reached stands with coloured silk awnings by the roadside where music was played and sacrificial offerings had been set out by different families. The first building belonged to the houses of the Prince of Dongping, the second was the Prince of Nan'an, the third was the Prince of Xining, and the last one is the Prince of Beijing. In the past, the Price if Beijing owned the highest status of the four, and his title was inherited by his descendants. The Prince of Beijing was very young with handsome appearance and gentleness. When he heard the grandson of the Duke of Ningguogong had lost his wife, the friendship and shared danger between their forefathers' made him ignore other considerations of rank. Yesterday, he went in person to express his condolences.Now, he had set up a funeral booth along the road.Some officials were dispatched by him to serve while he went to the court at dawn. Having finished all the things, he changed into simple clothes and went back by palanquin, accompanying with sound gongs and ceremonial umbrellas. He went off the palanquin at the door and his officers served him at hand. Soldiers and civilians were not allowed to pass.

Presently, from the north, the Ning Mansion’s magnificent funeral procession bore down on them like a great silver landslide. The runners sent ahead to clear the way had reported the prince’s arrival to Jia Zhen, who now ordered the procession to halt while he, Jia She and Jia Zheng went to greet the prince according to state ceremonial. The prince bowed affably in return from his palanquin, treating them as old family friends without any affectation. Jia Zhen said, “We are overwhelmed by the favor done us by Your Highness in honoring my daughter-in-law’s funeral with your presence.”“That is no way for good friends to talk,” protested the prince.Then he turned and ordered his chief steward to preside at the sacrifice for him and pour a libation. Jia She and the others, having bowed in return, stepped forward to express their gratitude. The Prince of Beijing was completely unassuming. He asked Jia Zheng, “Which is the young gentleman born with a piece of jade in his mouth? I have long wanted to meet him but have never had the time. I am sure he must be here today. Won’t you present him?” Jia Zheng withdrew at once to fetch Precious Jade. He made him change out of mourning, then took him to meet the prince.

With all kinds of decorations and performances in front, the procession extended about three of four miles away. Before long they reached stands with coloured silk awnings by the roadside where music was played and sacrificial offerings had been set out by different families. The first building belonged to the houses of the Prince of Dongping, the second was the Prince of Nan'an, the third was the Prince of Xining, and the last one is the Prince of Beijing. In the past, the Price if Beijing owned the highest status of the four, and his title was inherited by his descendants. The Prince of Beijing was very young with handsome appearance and gentleness. When he heard the grandson of the Duke of Ningguogong had lost his wife, the friendship and shared danger between their forefathers' made him ignore other considerations of rank. Yesterday, he went in person to express his condolences.Now, he had set up a funeral booth along the road.Some officials were dispatched by him to serve while he went to the court at dawn. Having finished all the things, he changed into simple clothes and went back by palanquin, accompanying with sound gongs and ceremonial umbrellas. He went off the palanquin at the door and his officers served him at hand. Soldiers and civilians were not allowed to pass.

Presently, from the north, the Ning Mansion’s magnificent funeral procession bore down on them like a great silver landslide. The runners sent ahead to clear the way had reported the prince’s arrival to Treasure Merchant, who now ordered the procession to halt while he, Pardon Merchant and Master Merchant went to greet the prince according to state ceremonial. The prince bowed affably in return from his palanquin, treating them as old family friends without any affectation. Treasure Merchant said, “We are overwhelmed by the favor done us by Your Highness in honoring my daughter-in-law’s funeral with your presence.”“That is no way for good friends to talk,” protested the prince.Then he turned and ordered his chief steward to preside at the sacrifice for him and pour a libation. Pardon Merchant and the others, having bowed in return, stepped forward to express their gratitude. The Prince of Beijing was completely unassuming. He asked Master Merchant , “Which is the young gentleman born with a piece of jade in his mouth? I have long wanted to meet him but have never had the time. I am sure he must be here today. Won’t you present him?” Master Merchant withdrew at once to fetch Precious Jade. He made him change out of mourning, then took him to meet the prince.--[[User:Deng Dan1|Deng Dan1]] ([[User talk:Deng Dan1|talk]]) 16:22, 27 April 2021 (UTC)

The runners sent ahead to clear the way the prince’s would arrive to Jia Zhen, who now ordered the procession to halt while he, Jia She and Jia Zheng went to greet the prince according to state ceremonial. The prince bowed affably in return from his palanquin, treating them as old family friends without any affectation. Jia Zhen said, “We are overwhelmed by the favor done us by Your Highness in honoring my daughter-in-law’s funeral with your presence.”“That is no way for good friends to talk,” protested the prince.Then he turned and ordered his chief steward to preside at the sacrifice for him and pour a libation. Jia She and the others, having bowed in return, stepped forward to express their gratitude. The Prince of Beijing was completely unassuming. He asked Jia Zheng, “Which is the young gentleman born with a piece of jade in his mouth? I have long wanted to meet him but have never had the time. I am sure he must be here today. Won’t you present him?” Jia Zheng withdrew at once to fetch Precious Jade. He made him change out of mourning, then led him to meet the prince.--[[User:Ding Zhongxia|Ding Zhongxia]] ([[User talk:Ding Zhongxia|talk]]) 09:40, 2 June 2021 (UTC)Ding Zhongxia

=Dīng Zhòngxià 丁仲夏=
那宝玉素闻得世荣是个贤王，且才貌俱全，风流跌宕，不为官俗国体所缚，每思相会，只是父亲拘束，不克如愿，今见反来叫他，自是喜欢。一面走，一面瞥见那世荣坐在轿内，好个仪表。不知近前又是怎样，且听下回分解。

◎第十五回王凤姐弄权铁槛寺秦鲸卿得趣馒头庵

话说宝玉举目见北静王世荣头上戴着净白簪缨银翅王帽，穿着江牙海水
五爪龙白蟒袍，系着碧玉红鞓带；面如美玉，目似明星，真好秀丽人物。宝玉忙
抢上来参见，世荣忙从轿内伸手搀住。见宝玉藏着束发银冠，勒着双龙出海抹
额，穿着白蟒箭袖，围着攒珠银带；面若春花，目如点漆。世荣笑道：“名不虚传，果然如‘宝’似‘玉’。”问：“衔的那宝贝在那里？”宝玉见问，连忙从衣内取出，递与世荣。世荣细细看了，又念了那上头的字，因问：“果灵验否？”贾政忙道：“虽如此说，只是未曾试过。”世荣一面极口称奇，一面理顺彩绦，亲自与宝玉带上，又携手问宝玉几岁，现读何书。宝玉一一答应。

世荣见他语言清朗，谈吐有致，一面又向贾政笑道：“令郎真乃龙驹凤雏，
非小王在世翁前唐突，将来‘雏凤清于老凤声’，未可量也。”贾政陪笑道：“犬子岂敢谬承金奖，敕藩郡余祯，果如所言，亦荫生辈之幸矣。”

Looking up, Precious Jade saw that the Prince of Beijing had on a princely silver-winged cap with white tassels, a white robe embroidered with zigzag wave patterns and five-clawed dragons, and a red leather belt studded with green jade. With his face fair as jade, his eyes bright as stars, he was truly a handsome figure. Precious Jade started forward to make his obeisance. As the prince from his palanquin raised him up, he noticed that Precious Jade was wearing a sliver chaplet in the form of two dragons rising from the sea, an archer’s coat embroidered with white serpents, and a silver belt set with pearls.  “You live up to your name,” remarked the prince. “You are really like precious jade. But where is that gem with which you came into the world?””Precious Jade hastily took the jade from inside his garments and handed it to the prince, who examined it carefully and read the inscription. “Does it actually have magic powers?” he asked.“So they say,” answered Jia Zheng. “But it has never yet been put to the test.” The prince was very struck by the jade and, smoothing its silken cord, with his own hands he put it round Precious Jade’s neck. Then taking the boy’s hand he asked him his age and what he was studying. The clarity and fluency of Precious Jade’s answers made the prince turn to observe to Jia Zheng, “Your son is truly a dragon’s colt or young phoenix. May I venture to predict that in time to come this young phoenix may even surpass the old one?” “My worthless son does not deserve such high praise,” rejoined Jia Zheng hurriedly with a courteous smile. “If thanks to the grace of Your Highness such proves the case, that will be our good fortune.”

=Dù Xīnyǔ 杜心语=
世荣又道：“只是一件，令郎如此资质，想老太夫人自然钟爱；但吾辈后生，甚不宜溺爱，溺爱则未免荒失了学业。昔小王曾蹈此辙，想令郎亦未必不如是也。若令郎在家难以用功，不妨常到寒第，小王虽不才，却多蒙海内众名士凡至都者，未有不垂青目，是以寒第高人颇聚，令郎常去谈谈会会，则学问可以日进矣。”贾政忙躬身答道：“是。”

世荣又将腕上一串念珠卸下来，递与宝玉，道：“今日初会，仓卒无敬贺之
物，此系圣上所赐蕶苓香念珠一串，权为贺敬之礼。”宝玉连忙接了，回身奉与贾政。贾政与宝玉一齐谢过了。于是贾赦、贾珍等一齐上来请回舆，世荣道：“逝
者已登仙界，非碌碌你我尘寰中人也。小王虽上叨天恩，虚邀郡袭，岂可越仙輀
而进也？”贾赦等见执意不从，只得告辞谢恩回来，命手下人掩乐停音，将殡过
完，方让北静王过去。不在话下。

且说宁府送殡，一路热闹非常。刚至城门，又有贾赦、贾政、贾珍诸同寅属
下各家祭棚接祭，一一的谢过，然后出城，竟奔铁槛寺大路而来。彼时贾珍带着
贾蓉来到诸长辈前让坐轿上马，因而贾赦一辈的各自上了车轿，贾珍一辈的也
将要上马；凤姐因记挂着宝玉，怕他在郊外纵性不服家人的话，贾政管不着，惟
恐有闪失，因此命小厮来唤他。
=Guō Yàbō 郭亚波=
宝玉只得到他车前。凤姐笑道：“好兄弟，你是个尊贵人，同女孩儿一般人品，别学他们猴在马上。下来，咱们姐儿两个同车，岂不好么？”宝玉听说，便下了马，爬上凤姐车内，二人说笑前进。

不一时，只见那边两骑马直奔凤姐车，下马扶车回道：“这里有下处，奶奶
请歇歇更衣。”凤姐命请邢王二夫人示下，那二人回说：“太太们说不歇了，叫奶奶自便。”凤姐便命歇歇再走。小厮带着轿马岔出人群，往北而来。宝玉在车
内急命请秦相公。那时秦钟正骑着马随他父亲的轿，忽见宝玉的小厮跑来请他
去打尖，秦钟远看这宝玉所骑的马，搭着鞍笼，随着凤姐的车往北而去，便知宝
玉同凤姐一车，自己也带马赶上来，同入一庄门内。

那庄农人家，无多房舍，妇女无处回避；那些村姑庄妇见了凤姐、宝玉、秦钟
的人品衣服，几疑天人下降。凤姐进入茅屋，先命宝玉等出去玩玩。宝玉会意，
因同秦钟带了小厮们各处游玩。凡庄家动用之物，俱不曾见过的，宝玉见了，都
以为奇，不知何名何用。小厮中有知道的，一一告诉了名目并其用处。宝玉听
了，因点头道：“怪道古人诗上说：‘谁知盘中餐，粒粒皆辛苦。’正为此也。”一面说，一面又到一间房内，见炕上有个纺车，越发以为稀奇。小厮们又告以：“纺线织布之用。”

Accordingly she ordered a page to summon him to her carriage, and when perforce he came she told him with a smile:“Dear cousin, you have your dignity and are as delicate as any girl. Don’t copy those apes on horseback. Wouldn’t it be better to come and share my carriage?” Precious Jade Merchant hurriedly dismounted to join her. They drove on laughing and chatting until two horsemen galloped up and alighted by the carriage to report, “We have reached a halting place, madam. Will you stop for a rest?”Having asked to know the wishes of Lady Xing and Lady Wang, Splendid Phoenix King was told, “Their Ladyships are not stopping, but they want you to suit your convenience.” Thereupon Splendid Phoenix King ordered a halt. Attendants led their carriage northwards away from the cortege and at Precious Jade Merchant’s orders went to invite Clock Grain, who was riding behind his father’s chair, to join them. When Precious Jade Merchant’s page brought him this invitation and he saw his friend’s riderless horse following Splendid Phoenix King’s carriage north, Clock Grain knew that Precious Jade Merchant must be with her. He promptly overtook them and together they entered the gateway of a farm. The menfolk here had long since been packed off, but the farmhouse had so few rooms that the womenfolk had nowhere to go to keep out of the way. The sudden appearance in their midst of Splendid Phoenix King, Precious Jade Merchant and Clock Grain with their gorgeous clothes and refined looks and manners made these village women stare with admiration. Once in the thatched house Splendid Phoenix King suggested to Precious Jade Merchant that he should amuse himself outside. Taking the hint, he led Clock Grain and the pages off to look around.He had never seen farm implements before and was thoroughly intrigued by the spades, picks, hoes and ploughs, although quite ignorant of their names and uses. When a page who knew informed him he nodded and remarked with a sigh:“Now I understand the words of the old poet: Who knows that each grain of rice we eat, Is the fruit of intensive toil?” Strolling into an outhouse, he was still more intrigued by a spinning-wheel on the kang. His pages told him this was used to weave yarn. He had just climbed up on the kang to turn the wheel for fun when in came a peasant girl of seventeen or eighteen. She ran over crying: “Don’t! You’ll break it!” She was shouted at by his pages, but Precious Jade Merchant had already let go of the wheel. “I’ve never seen one before,” he explained with a smile. “I just wanted to have a try.”“How could you people know how?” said the girl. “Get out of my way and I’ll show you.”

=Huáng Fāngfāng 黄芳芳=
宝玉便上炕摇转作耍，只见一个村妆丫头，约有十七八岁，走来说道：“别弄坏了！”众小厮忙喝住了，宝玉也住了手，说道：“我因不曾见过，所以
试一试玩儿。”那丫头道：“你们不会，我转给你瞧。”秦钟暗拉宝玉道：“此卿大有意趣。”宝玉推他道：“再胡说，我就打了。”说着，只见那丫头纺起线来，果然好看。忽听那边老婆子叫道：“二丫头，快过来！”那丫头丢了纺车，一径去了。

宝玉怅然无趣。只见凤姐打发人来叫他两个进去。凤姐洗了手，换了衣
服，问他换不换，宝玉道：“不换。”也就罢了。仆妇们端上茶食果品来，又倒上香茶来，凤姐等吃过茶，待他们收拾完备，便起身上车。外面旺儿预备赏封，赏了那庄户人家，那庄妇人等来谢赏。宝玉留心看时，并不见纺线之女。走不多远，却见这二丫头怀里抱了个小孩子，想是他的兄弟，同着几个小女孩子说笑而来。宝玉情不自禁，然身在车上，只得以目相送。一时电卷风驰，回头已无踪迹了。

说笑间，忽已赶上大殡。早已前面法鼓金饶，幢幡宝盖，铁槛寺中僧众已
列路旁。少时到了寺中，另演佛事，重设香坛，安灵于内殿偏室之中，宝珠安理
寝室为伴。

Precious Jade had just climbed up on the kang to play with the spinning-wheel by rotating it when in came a peasant girl of seventeen or eighteen. She ran over crying: “Don’t! You’ll break it!” She was shouted at by his pages, but Precious Jade had already let go of the wheel."I’ve never seen one as this before," he explained with a smile. "I just wanted to have a try." The girl said: "You don't know how to rotate it. Get out of the way and I’ll show you." Clock Qin pulled Precious Jade quietly and whispered:" How interested are this girl!" Precious Jade pushed him:" If you say any flimflam else, I will hit you." When they were talking, the girl came to weave yarn, which looks beautiful. Suddenly, an old woman there was calling:" Come on! Second Girl. Hurry up!" The girl stopped weaving yarn, and went right away.

Precious Jade felt so bored. Sister Phoenix sent a person to invite the two of them to come in. Sister Phoenix washed her hands and changed her clothes, then asked Precious Jade whether he would change his clothes. Precious Jade said:"No." Then so he did. The servants brought in tea and fruits, and poured out fragrant tea. After eating and drinking, Sister Feng waited until they were ready, and then got up and boarded the carriage. Outside, Vigor prepared a reward and rewarded the peasant family. The peasant woman waited to give thanks. Precious Jade looked around carefully, but he did not see the spinning girl. When they had not gone a long way, he found her, with a little boy in her arms. She came joking and laughing with several little girls. Precious Jade thought that the little boy could be her brother. Precious Jade could not help herself, but he was in the carriage and could only see her off. After a moment of wind, he looked back only to find no trace.

During the time of chatting and laughing, suddenly they had caught the funeral. Drums and cymbals, and settings for Buddhist ceremony had already been ready in front. The monks of the Iron Temple had listed by the roadside. A short while later, they arrived at the temple. Another Buddhist ceremony was held; the altar of incense was reset. Memorial tablets were placed in the inner temple partial room. Pearls and jewels were put in bedrooms as company.

=Huáng Lìpèi 黄沥霈=
外面贾珍款待一应亲友，也有扰饭的，也有就告辞的，一一谢过乏，
从公、侯、伯、子、男，一起一起的，散至未末方散尽了。里面的堂客皆是凤姐陪伴接待，先从诰命散起，也到晌午方散完了。只有几个近亲本族，等僦过三日道场方去呢。那时邢王二夫人知凤姐必不能回家，便要进城。王夫人要带了宝玉
同去，宝玉乍到郊外，那里肯回去？只要跟凤姐住着，王夫人只得交与凤姐而
去。

原来过铁槛寺是宁荣二公当日修造的，现今还有香火地亩，以备京中老了
人口，在此停灵。其中阴阳两宅俱是预备妥帖的，好为送灵人口寄居。不想如
今后人繁盛，其中贫富不一，或情性参商：有那家业艰难安分的，便住在这里了；
有那有钱有势尚排场的，只说这里不方便，一定另外或村庄，或尼庵，寻个下处，
为事毕宴退之所。即今秦氏之丧，族中诺人，皆权在铁槛寺下榻。独凤姐嫌不
方便，因遣人来和馒头庵的姑子净虚说了，腾出两间房来做下处。原来这馒头
庵就是水月寺，因他庙里做的馒头好，就起了这个浑号，高铁槛寺不远。

当下和尚工课已完，奠过晚茶，贾珍便命贾蓉请凤姐歇息。凤姐见还有几
个妯娌陪着女亲，自己便辞了众人，带了宝玉秦钟往水月庵来。原来秦业年迈
多病，不能在此，只命秦钟等待安灵罢，那秦钟只跟着凤姐宝玉。

In the outer apartments, Treasure Merchant did the honors among the whole party of relatives and friends, some of whom asked to be allowed to stay for their meals, while others at this stage took their leave. And after they had returned thanks one by one, the dukes, marquises, earls, viscounts and barons, each in respective batches and they kept on leaving from between 1 and 3 pm, before they had finally all dispersed. In the inner chambers, the ladies were solely entertained and attended by Lady Phoenix. First were the consorts of officials to make a move here, and noon had also come. By the time, the whole party of them had left. These that remained were simply a few relatives of the same clan and others like them who eventually left after the completion of three days. The two ladies City and King, at this time aware that Lady Phoenix could not return home, will desire to enter the city at once. Madam King wanted to take Precious Jade home, but Precious Jade who had entered the city, entertained, of course no wish to go back, and he would agree to nothing else than to stay behind Lady Phoenix. So that Madam King had no option but to hand him over to her charge and left.

In fact, the Temple of Iron Fence had been erected in days gone by, at the expense of two duke Peace and Honor; and there still remained up to these days, acres of land from which were derived the funds for incense and lights, on which the coffins of any members, old or young who died in the capital had to be deposited in this temple; and the inner and outer houses were all kept in good order and readiness, for the accommodation of those who formed the part of the cortege. At this time, the descendants mustered an immense crowd and among them were poor and rich of various degrees, or with like and dislike completely opposed. There were those who being in poor circumstances at home, and easily contented, readily took up their quarters in the temple; and there were those with money and position with extravagant ideas, who maintained that the accommodation in the temple was not suitable, and went in search of additional quarters, either in country houses or in convents, where they could have their meals and retire, after the ceremonies were over. On the occasion of Mrs. Grain's funeral, all the members of the clan put up temporarily in the Iron Fence Temple, Lady Phoenix looked down upon it as inconvenient and consequently despatched a servant to go and tell Pure Modest, a nun in Bread Convent, for empty rooms for her to go and live in. This Bread Convent had been styled the Water Moon Nunnery at one time; but because of good bread was made in this temple, hence it is given the nickname. This convent was not very distant from the Iron Fence Temple.

So that, the bonzes brought their functions to a close and the sacrifice of evening was offered. Treasure Merchant asked Master Merchant to request Lady Phoenix to rest, and as Lady Phoenix perceived that there still remained several sisters-in-law to keep company to the female relatives. She took leave of the whole party of her own accord, along with Precious Jade and Clock Grain came to the Water Moon Convent. Notice that Business Grain was advanced in years and a victim to many illness, so that he was unable to remain in the temple long, then he ordered Goblet Qin wait until the coffin had been set in its resting place, with the result that Clock Grain came along. At the same time, as Lady Phoenix and Precious Jade back to the Water Moon Convent.

=Huáng Xiàolán 黄笑兰=
一时到了水月庵，净虚带领智善智能两个徒弟出来迎接，大家见过。凤姐等至净室更衣净手毕，因见智能儿越发长高了，模样越发出息了，因说道：“你们师徒怎么这些日子也不往我们那里去？”净虚道：“可是这几日都没有工夫，因胡老爷府里产了公子，太太送了十两银子来这里。叫请几位师父念三日‘血盆经’，忙的没个空儿，就没有来请奶奶的安。”

不言老尼陪着凤姐，且说秦钟宝玉二人正在殿上玩耍，因见智能过来，宝
玉笑道：“能儿来了。”秦钟说：“理那东西作什么？”宝玉笑道：“你别弄鬼！那一
日在老太太房里，一个人没有，你楼着他作什么？这会子还哄我。”秦钟笑道：
“这可是没有的话。”宝玉道：“有没有也不管你，你只叫住他倒碗茶来我吃，就
丢开手。”秦钟笑道：“这又奇了！你叫他倒去，还怕他不倒？何必要我说呢。”
宝玉道：“我叫他倒的是无情意的，不及你叫他倒的是有情意的。”秦钟只得说
道：“能儿倒碗茶来。”那能儿自幼在荣府走动，无人不识，常和宝玉秦钟玩笑，如
今长大了，渐知风月，便看上了秦钟人物风流，那秦钟也爱他研媚，二人虽未上
手，却已情投意合了。智能走去倒了茶来。秦钟笑说：“给我。”宝玉又叫：“给
我！”智能儿抿嘴笑道：“一碗茶也争，难道我手上有蜜！”

They were met at the gate of the Water Moon Nunnery by Abbess Emptiness Quiet and two novices, Kindness and Sapientia. After an exchange of greetings, Sister Phoenix retired to a rest room. While she was changing she noticed how tall and pretty Sapientia had grown. "Why haven’t you and your abbess been to see us lately? " she asked. "A few days ago a son was born to Mr. Hu," explained the abbess. "His good lady sent us ten tales of silver to get some of our sisters to chant the Nativity sutra for three days, so we've been too busy to come and pay our respects."

But let us return to Precious Jade and Clock Qin, who were fooling about in the hall when Sapientia came in. "Look who's here," said Precious Jade with a smile. "What about it?" retorted Clock Qin. It's no use play-acting. What were you doing with her on your lap that day in my grandmother's room, when no one else was about? Stop trying to fool me." "You're just making that up!" protested Clock Qin. "Well, never mind. Tell her to pour me some tea and I'll let you off." "Don't be ridiculous. Could she refuse if you ask her yourself? Why should I ask for you?" "For you, she would do it for love, but not for me." Then Clock Qin said, "Bring me some tea, Sapientia, will you?" This young novice had been in and out of the Rong Mansion since childhood. She knew everyone there and had often romped with Precious Jade and Clock Qin; and now that she was old enough to know the meaning of love she had taken a fancy to handsome young Clock Qin, who was attracted in tum by her pretty looks. Although nothing had passed between them, they already had a secret understanding. So now with a radiant glance at him she complied. Soon she back again with a cup of tea. "Give it to me!" urged Clock Qin with a smile. "No, to me!" cried Precious Jade. Sapientia laughed mockingly. "Do I have honey on my hands that you squabble even over a cup of tea?"

=Huáng Zǐlóng 黄梓龙 Mr.=
宝玉先抢得了，喝着，
方要问话，只见智善来叫智能去摆果碟子，一时来请他两个去吃果茶。他两个
那里吃过些东西？略坐一坐仍出来玩耍。
凤姐也略坐片时，便回至净室歇息，老尼相送。此时众婆娘媳妇见无事，
都陆续散了，自去歇息，跟前不过几个心腹小婢，老尼便趁机说道：“我有一事，
要到府里求太太，先请奶奶一个示下。”凤姐问：“何事？”老尼道：“阿弥陀佛！
只因当日我先在长安县善才庵内出家的时节，那时有个施主姓张，是大财主。
他有个女儿小名金哥，那年都往我庙里来进香，不想遇见了长安府太爷的小舅
子李衙内。那李衙内一心看上，要娶金哥，打发人来求亲，不想金哥已受了原任
长安守备的公子的聘定。张家若退亲，又怕守备不依，因此说已有了人家。谁
知李公子执意要娶他女儿，张家正无计策，两处为难。不料守备家一知此信，也
不问青红皂白，便来作践辱骂，说：‘一个女儿许几家人家？’偏不许退定礼，就打
官司告状起来。那家急了，只得着人上京来寻门路，赌气偏要退定礼。我想如
今长安节度云老爷，与府上相契，可以求太太与老爷说声，发一封书，求云老爷
和那守备说一声，不怕他不依。若是肯行，张家连倾家孝顺也都情愿。”

Baoyu grabbed hold of the cup and started drinking, and before he could speak again Zhishan came to fetch Zhineng to lay the table.Presently she returned to invite them to have some refreshments, but the tea and cakes served in the convent did not tempt them. They sat a while, then escaped as soon as they could to amuse themselves elsewhere.
Xifeng retired presently, too, to the rest room accompanied by the abbess. When the older maid-servants saw there was nothing to do they went off to bed themselves, leaving only a few trusted younger maids in attendance.The abbess seized this chance to say, "There"s something I've been meaning to go and ask Her Ladyship, but I"d like to have your advice on it first, madam." "What is it?" asked Xifeng."Amida Buddha!" sighed the abbess."When I became a nun in Shancai Convent in the county of Changan, one of our benefactors was a very wealthy man called Zhang, whose daughter Jinge often came to our temple to offer incense. A young Mr. Li, who is brother-in-law to the prefect of Changan, met her there. He fell in love at first sight and sent to ask for her hand; but she was already engaged to the son of the former inspector of Changan. The Zhangs would have liked to cancel the engagement but were afraid the inspector might object, so they explained to the Lis that she was betrothed. Still young Mr. Li insisted on having her, making things very difficult for the Zhangs. "When word of this reached the inspector"s family, without even finding out the truth of the matter they came and stormed,,How many more men will you engage your daughter to?" They refused to take back the betrothal gift stook the matter to court. "The girl"s family are desperate. They've sent to the capital to enlist help and are quite determined to return the gifts. "Well, I understand that General Yun the Military Governor of Changan is on friendly terms with your family. If Lady Wang would get His Lordship to write to General Yun, asking him to have a word with the inspector, I'm sure he'd drop the suit. And the Zhangs would gladly give any-thing - even their whole fortune - in return for this favour.”

Precious Jade Merchant grabbed hold of the cup and started drinking, and before he could speak again Zhishan came to fetch Zhineng to lay the table.Presently she returned to invite them to have some refreshments, but the tea and cakes served in the convent did not tempt them. They sat a while, then escaped as soon as they could to amuse themselves elsewhere.
Splendid Phoenix King retired presently, too, to the rest room accompanied by the abbess. When the older maid-servants saw there was nothing to do they went off to bed themselves, leaving only a few trusted younger maids in attendance.The abbess seized this chance to say, "There"s something I've been meaning to go and ask Her Ladyship, but I"d like to have your advice on it first, madam." "What is it?" asked Splendid Phoenix King."Precious Jade firstly grabbed the cup and started drinking. When he wanted to ask some questions, Zhishan fetched Zhineng to lay a fruit tray on table and she invited them to eat fruits and tea.But they had not eat such things before, so they sat for a while and then escaped to amusing themselves.
"Well, I knew that General Yun the Military Governor of Changan is on friendly terms with your family. So,if Lady Wang would ask His Lordship for a letter to request General Yun the Military Governor of Changan to inform the inspector, General Yun must agreed with it. And the Zhangs would gladly give anything, even their whole fortune in return for this favour.”_Li Yihao

=Lǐ Yìhào 李艺浩=
凤姐听了笑遭：“这事倒不大，只是太太再不管这样的事。”老尼道：“太太
不管，奶奶可以主张了。”凤姐笑道：“我也不等银子使，也不做这样的事。”净虚
听了，打去妄想，半响叹道：“虽如此说，只是张家已知我来求府里。如今不管这
事，张家不知道没工夫管这事，不希罕他的谢礼，倒像府里连这点子手段也没有
的一般。”

凤姐听了这话，便发了兴头，说道：“你是素日知道我的，从来不信什么阴
司地狱报应的，凭是什么事，我说要行就行。你叫他拿三千两银子来，我就替他
出这口气。”老尼听说，喜之不胜，忙说：“有，有！这个不难。”凤姐又道：“我比
不得他们扯蓬拉牵的图银子。这三千两银子，不过是给打发去说的小厮们作盘
缠，使他赚几个辛苦钱，我一个钱也不要。便是三万两我此刻还拿的出来。”老
尼忙答应道：“既如此，奶奶明日就开恩也罢了。”凤姐道：“你瞧瞧我忙的，那一
处少了我？我既应了你，自然快快的了结。”老尼道：“这点子事，在别人跟前，就
忙的不知怎么样；若是奶奶跟前，再添上些，也不够奶奶一发挥的。只是俗语说
的：‘能者多劳。’太太见奶奶大小事都妥帖，越发都推给奶奶了，奶奶也要保重
贵体才是。”一路奉承的话，凤姐越发受用，也不顾劳乏，更攀谈起来。

Splendid Phoenix King laughed at this: "This matter is not big, but the wife no longer care about such things." The old anun said, "You can master such things." Splendid Phoenix King smiled and said, "I have enough money, and I am unwilling to do such things." After hearing this, Jing Xu dismissed her delusion. After a while Jing Xu sighed and said: "Although the condition is such, the Zhangs know that I have come here to beg for this thing.Now the Zhangs plan not to deal with this matter, and do not like his gifts, which lost us face."

Upon hearing this words, Splendid Phoenix King became very angry and said, "You have known that I have never believed in anything fetishistic. I do whatever I want to do. Tell him to bring three thousand Yin, and I will help him vent his anger." On hearing this, The old anun was very excitedly said, "Yes, yes! It's not hard." Splendid Phoenix King said again: "I do not lack money. This three thousand Yin was only for the trip fee for servants who were sent to pass on a message so they can earn some money. I don't keep any money. Even though it is 30,000 Yin, I also plan not to take any." The old anun hurriedly replied: "In that case, Could you do it tomorrow?" Splendid Phoenix King said: "I'm busy now, because any small or big affairs need me to deal with. Since I promised you, of course I must be done it quickly." Old anun said: "this small matter, in front of others, may be always in in suspense. On the contrary, if given it , even some more things, to you, it is very easy too. It's just saying goes- Able men are always busy. The wife knew you can deal everything properly, so the wife entrusted more to you.But you also remember to take care of yourself." All the way to flatter, Splendid Phoenix King are more and more pleasant and chatted with her more,regardless of her fatigue.

Splendid Phoenix King laughed at this: "This doesn't matter, but the wife no longer care about such things." The old nun said, "You can master such things." Splendid Phoenix King smiled and said, "I have enough money, and I am unwilling to do such things." After hearing this, Jing Xu dismissed her delusion. After a while, Jing Xu sighed and said: "Although the condition is such, the Zhangs know that I have come here to beg for this thing. Now the Zhangs plan not to deal with this matter, and do not like his gifts, which lost us face."

Upon hearing these words, Splendid Phoenix King became very angry and said, "You have known that I have never believed in anything fetishistic. I do whatever I want to do. Tell him to bring three thousand Yin, and I will help him vent his anger." On hearing this, The old nun was very excitedly said, "Yes, yes! It's not hard." Splendid Phoenix King said again: "I do not lack money. This three thousand Yin was only for the trip fee for servants who were sent to pass on a message so they can earn some money. I don't keep any money. Even though it is 30,000 Yin, I also plan not to take any." The old nun hurriedly replied: "In that case, Could you do it tomorrow?" Splendid Phoenix King said: "I'm busy now because any small or big affairs need me to deal with. Since I promised you, of course, I must be done it quickly." Old nun said: "this small matter, in front of others, maybe always in suspense. On the contrary, if given it, even some more things, to you, it is very easy too. It's just saying goes- Able men are always busy. The wife knew you can deal with everything properly, so the wife entrusted more to you. But you also remember to take care of yourself." All the way to flatter, Splendid Phoenix King is more and more pleasant and chatted with her more, regardless of her fatigue.--[[User:Liu Tingyang|Liu Tingyang]] ([[User talk:Liu Tingyang|talk]]) 13:14, 14 June 2021 (UTC)

----

=Liú Tíngyáng 刘廷阳=
谁想秦钟趁黑晚无人，来寻智能，刚至后面房中，只见智能独在那里洗茶
碗。秦钟便搂着亲嘴，智能急的跺脚说：“做什么！”就要叫唤。秦钟道：“好人，
我已急死了！你今儿再不依我，我就死在这里。”智能道：“你想怎么样？除非
等我出这牢坑，离了这些人，才好呢。”秦钟道：“这也容易，只是远水救不得近
火。”说着一口吹了灯，满屋漆黑，将智能抱到炕上，就云雨起来。那智能百般的
挣挫不起，又不好叫的，少不得依了。正在得趣，只见一人进来，将他二人按住，
也不出声，他二人唬得魂飞魄丧。倒是那人“嗤”的一声笑了，方知是宝玉。秦
钟连忙起来抱怨道：“这算什么？”宝玉道：“你倒不依？咱们就叫喊起起来。”羞的
智能趁暗中跑了。宝玉拉着秦钟出来道：“你可还和我强？”秦钟笑道：“好人，
你只别嚷的众人知道，你要怎样我都依你。”宝玉笑道：“这会子也不用说，等一
会睡下再细细的算帐。”一时宽衣安歇的时节，凤姐在里间，宝玉秦钟在外间，满
地下皆是家下婆子打铺坐更。凤姐因怕“通灵玉”失落，便等宝玉睡下，令人拿
来塞在自己枕边。宝玉不知与秦钟算何帐目，未见真切，此系疑案，不敢创纂。
一宿无语。

至次日一早，便有贾母王夫人打发了人来看宝玉，又命多穿两件衣服，无
事宁可回去。

Who could have thought that under the cover of darkness with no one on the occasion, Clock Qin come to see Sapientia. He found her on her own washing up teacups. putting his arms around her, he gave her a kiss. Sapientia stamped with rage:“What are you doing!” She would shout out, but Clock Qin spoke to her: “Sweetie, I want you so desperately! If you won’t let me, I’ll just die in here!”“If you want me,” said Sapientia, “you must first get me out of this hole and away from these people.”“That’s easy,” said Clock Qin. “But distant water is no cure for a present thirst.” And he blew out the light, and plunged the room into darkness, and carried Sapientia on to the kang. She struggled hard to get up, though still not proper to call out. Suddenly, a third person came in the room and fastened them without any sound. For some moments the other two were almost freak out until there was a suppressed laughter and they knew that it was Precious Jade. “What the hell are you doing?” complained Clock Qin as he got up. Precious Jade responded: “So you want to complain? Then I’ll call Out.”Poor Sapientia was so overcome with shame that she slipped away in the dark. Precious Jade hauled Clock Qin from the room. “Now,” he said: “are you still going to dispute with me?” “Look, bro, I’ll do anything you say as long as you promise to keep the secret.” “We won’t say about it just now,” said Precious Jade. “Wait until we are both in bed and I’ll settle accounts with you then.”Bedtime soon came and they’ve settled down for the night, Splendid Phoenix in an inner room and they in an outer room. And there were numerous old servants lay about everywhere on the floor wrapped up in their bedding. Splendid Phoenix was afraid that the ‘Magic Jade’ might disappear in the night; so until Precious Jade was in bed she asked someone to fetch it from him, and put it under her own pillow for safety. We have been unable to know exactly what Precious Jade asked; and as we would not for the world be guilty of fabrication, it’s a mystery.

The next day someone arrived from Grandma Merchant and Lady King to see how Precious Jade was getting on; For there’s nothing matter, they only asked him to have two more clothes.--[[User:Liu Tingyang|Liu Tingyang]] ([[User talk:Liu Tingyang|talk]]) 09:34, 13 June 2021 (UTC)

Who could have thought that under the cover of darkness with no one on the occasion, Clock Qin come to see Sapientia. He found her on her own washing up teacups. putting his arms around her, he gave her a kiss. Sapientia stamped with rage:“What are you doing!” She would shout out, but Clock Qin spoke to her: “Sweetie, I want you so desperately! If you won’t let me, I’ll just die in here!”“If you want me,” said Sapientia, “you must first get me out of this hole and away from these people.”“That’s easy,” said Clock Qin. “But distant water is no cure for a present thirst.” And he blew out the light, and plunged the room into darkness, and carried Sapientia on to the kang. She struggled hard to get up, though still not proper to call out. Suddenly, a third person came in the room and fastened them without any sound. For some moments the other two were almost freak out until there was a suppressed laughter and they knew that it was Precious Jade. “What are you doing?” complained Clock Qin as he got up. Precious Jade responded: “You don’t mind? Then I’ll call Out.”Poor Sapientia was so overcome with shame that she slipped away in the dark. Precious Jade hauled Clock Qin from the room. “Now,” he said: “are you still going to dispute with me?” “Bro, I’ll do anything you say as long as you promise to keep the secret.” “We won’t say about it just now,” said Precious Jade. “Wait until we are both in bed and I’ll settle accounts with you then.”Bedtime soon came and they’ve settled down for the night, Splendid Phoenix in an inner room and they in an outer room. And there were numerous old servants lay about everywhere on the floor wrapped up in their bedding. Splendid Phoenix was afraid that the “Magic Jade” might disappear in the night; so as soon as Precious Jade was in bed she asked someone to fetch it from him, and put it under her own pillow for safety. We have been unable to know exactly what Precious Jade asked; and as we would not for the world be guilty of a fabrication, it’s a mystery.
Next day someone arrived from Grandma Merchant and Lady King to see how Precious Jade was getting on; for there’s nothing matter, they only asked him to have two more clothes.--[[User:Liu Zhuofan|Liu Zhuofan]] ([[User talk:Liu Zhuofan|talk]]) 10:34, 14 June 2021 (UTC)

=Liú Zhuōfán 刘卓凡 Mr.=
宝玉那里肯回去？又有秦钟恋着智能，调唆宝玉求凤姐再住一
天。凤姐想了一想：丧仪大事虽妥，还有些小事未安排，可以借此再住一日，岂
不又在贾珍跟前送了满情，二则又可以完了净虚的那件事，三则顺了宝玉的心。
因有此三益，便向宝玉道：“我的事都完了。你要在这里逛，少不得越发辛苦了，
明儿是一定要走的了。”宝玉听说，千“姐姐”万“姐姐”的央求：“只住一日，明儿
必回去的。”于是又住了一夜。

凤姐便命悄悄将昨日老尼之事说与来旺儿，旺儿心中俱已明白，急忙进
城，找着主文的相公，假托贾琏所嘱，修书一封，连夜往长安县来。不过百里之
遥，两日工夫，俱已妥协。那节度使名唤云光，久悬贾府之情，这些小事，岂有不
允之理，给了回书，旺儿回来，不在话下。

且说凤姐等又过了一日，次日方别了老尼，着他三日后往府里去讨信。那
秦钟与智能，百般不忍分离，背地里多少幽期密约，俱不用细述，只得含恨而别。
凤姐又到铁槛寺中照望一番。宝珠执意不肯回家，贾珍只得派妇女相伴。且听
下回分解。

Precious Jade did not want to go home. In addition, Bell Qin falls in love with Ability Wet and he instigated Precious Jade to beg for living another day there. Sister Phoenix considered that the most important affair about the funeral was finished but there were still some little things to arrange, so they could live for another day. There are three advantages. First, it helped to do favours at no great cost to Treasure Merchant. Second, Emptiness Quiet’s could be solved. Third, it obeyed Precious Jade’s will. Sister Phoenix told to Precious Jade that “My affairs were finished and solved. You hanging out here is adding to my painstaking. Tomorrow we should leave without negotiation. Hearing that, Precious Jade pleaded by calling her “sister” for thousands of times. “Just one day. Tomorrow must be the date to go back home,” Precious Jade said. Therefore, they lived there for another night.
Sister Phoenix ordered some one to tell the thing about the old Buddhist nun to Brightie. Brightie had known clearly and rushed to the downtown to find the minister in charge of the art. He lied that it was Vessel Merchant who ordered to write a letter and then he went to Chang’ an County overnight. Just one hundred miles and two days, the affair was dealt with well. The khrom named Cloudlight, who remembered the kindness of Jia mansion. So, such a little affair was easily dealt with. Cloudlight wrote a letter and let Brightie to bring back.
Sister Phoenix waited for another day and bid farewell to the old Buddhist nun the next day and asked her to go to Jia mansion to get the letter. Bell Qin and Ability Wet could not bear the pain of separation. How many secret meetings they had in privacy did not deserve narrating in detail. They had to say goodbye to each other in regret. Sister Phoenix went to Iron Sill Temple to visit Jewel. She was still unwilling to go back home, so Treasure Merchant had to send some maids to accompany her. Other stories would be analysed and explained below.

Precious Jade did not want to go home. In addition, Bell Qin falls in love with Ability Wet and he instigated Precious Jade to beg for living another day there. Splendid Phoenix considered that the most important affair about the funeral was finished, but there were still some little things to arrange, so they could live for another day. There are three advantages. First, it helped to do favours at no great cost to Treasure Merchant. Second, Emptiness Quiet’s could be solved. Third, it obeyed Precious Jade’s will. Sister Phoenix told Precious Jade that “My affairs were finished and solved. You hanging out here is adding to my painstaking. Tomorrow we should leave without negotiation. Hearing that, Precious Jade pleaded by calling her “sister” thousands of times. “Just one day. Tomorrow must be the date to go back home,” Precious Jade said. Therefore, they lived there for another night. Sister Phoenix ordered someone to tell the thing about the old Buddhist nun to Brightie. Brightie had known clearly and rushed downtown to find the minister in charge of the art. He lied that it was Vessel Merchant who ordered him to write a letter and then he went to Chang’an County overnight. Just one hundred miles and two days, the affair was dealt with well. The khrom named Cloudlight, who remembered the kindness of Jia mansion. So, such a little affair was easily dealt with. Cloudlight wrote a letter and let Brightie bring it back. Sister Phoenix waited for another day and bid farewell to the old Buddhist nun the next day and asked her to go to Jia mansion to get the letter. Bell Qin and Ability Wet could not bear the pain of separation. How many secret meetings they had in privacy did not deserve narrating in detail. They had to say goodbye to each other in regret. Sister Phoenix went to Iron Sill Temple to visit Jewel. She was still unwilling to go back home, so Treasure Merchant had to send some maids to accompany her. Other stories would be analysed and explained below.

--[[User:Peng Jiayu|Peng Jiayu]] ([[User talk:Peng Jiayu|talk]]) 06:26, 21 April 2021 (UTC)
----

Precious Jade did not want to go home. In addition, Bell Qin falls in love with Ability Wet and he instigated Precious Jade to beg for living another day there. Splendid Phoenix considered that the most important affair about the funeral was finished but there were still some little things to arrange, so they could live for another day. There are three advantages. First, it helped to do favours at no great cost to Cousin Zhen. Second, Emptiness Quiet’s could be solved. Third, it obeyed Precious Jade’s will. Sister Phoenix told to Precious Jade that “My affairs were finished and solved. You hanging out here is adding to my painstaking. Tomorrow we should leave without negotiation. Hearing that, Precious Jade pleaded by calling her “sister” for thousands of times. “Just one day. Tomorrow must be the date to go back home,” Precious Jade said. Therefore, they lived there for another night.
Splendid Phoenix ordered some one to tell the thing about the old Buddhist nun to Vigor. Vigor had known clearly and rushed to the downtown to find the minister in charge of the art. He lied that it was Fake Romance who ordered to write a letter and then he went to Chang’ an County overnight. Just one hundred miles and two days, the affair was dealt with well. The khrom named Cloudlight, who remembered the kindness of Jia mansion. So, such a little affair was easily dealt with. Cloudlight wrote a letter and let Vigor to bring back.
Splendid Phoenix waited for another day and bid farewell to the old Buddhist nun the next day and asked her to go to Jia mansion to get the letter. Bell Qin and Ability Wet could not bear the pain of separation. How many secret meetings they had in privacy did not deserve narrating in detail. They had to say goodbye to each other in regret. Splendid Phoenix went to Iron Sill Temple to visit Jewel. She was still unwilling to go back home, so Cousin Zhen had to send some maids to accompany her. Other stories would be analysed and explained below.--[[User:Liu Zhuofan|Liu Zhuofan]] ([[User talk:Liu Zhuofan|talk]]) 14:26, 24 April 2021 (UTC)

20210421 culture

2021-06-14T15:58:45Z

Yao Yang: /* Wú Xīnxīn 吴欣欣 */

Quicklinks: [https://bou.de/u/wiki/uvu:Community_Portal#Frequently_asked_questions_FAQ FAQ] [https://bou.de/u/wiki/uvu:Community_Portal Manual] [[Foundations_of_Chinese_Cultures_2021|Course Homepage (this page)]]. [[Joint_translation_terms|Joint translation terms]] Homework [[20210303_culture|1, Mar 3 Chapters 1-4]], [[20210310_culture|2, Mar 10 Chapters 6-7]], [[20210317_culture|3, Mar 17 Chapters 11-13]], [[20210324_culture|4, Mar 24 Chapters 15-17]], [[20210331_culture|5, Mar 31 Chapters 4-7]], [[20210407_culture|6, Apr 7 Chapters 8-10]], [[20210414_culture|7, Apr 14 Chapters 13-15]] , [[20210519_culture|12, May 19 Chapters 17-19]]etc.
=Shū Lín 舒琳=
贾珍回道：“那陈设的东西早已添了许多，自然临期合式陈设。帐幔帘子，昨日听见琏兄弟说，还不全。那原是一
起工程之时就画了各处的图样，量准尺寸，就打发人办去的。想必昨日得了一半。”贾政听了，便知此事不是贾珍的首尾，便叫人去唤贾琏。一时来了。贾政问他：“共有几种？现今得了几种？尚欠几种？”贾琏见问，忙向靴筒内取出靴掖内装的一个纸折略节来，看了一看，回道：“妆蟒绣堆、刻丝弹墨，并各色绸绫大小幔子一百二十架，昨日得了八十架，下欠四十架。帘子二百挂，昨俱得了。
外有猩猩毡帘二百挂，湘妃竹帘二百挂，金丝藤红漆竹帘二百挂，黑潦竹帘二百挂，五彩线络盘花帘二百挂，每样得了一半，也不过秋天都全了。椅搭、桌围、床裙、杌套，每分一千二百件，也有了。”

一面说，一面走，忽见青山斜阻。转过山怀中，隐隐露出一带黄泥墙，墙上皆用稻茎掩护。有几百枝杏花，如喷火蒸霞一般。里面数楹茅屋，外面却是桑、榆、槿、柘，各色树稚新条，随其曲折，编就两溜青篱。篱外山坡之下，有一土井，旁有桔槔辘轳之属；下面分畦列亩，佳蔬菜花，一望无际。

贾政笑道：“倒是此处有些道理。虽系人力穿凿，而入目动心，未免勾引起我归农之意。我们且进去歇息歇息。”

"Of the things that have to be placed about," Treasure Merchant explained, a good number have, at an early period, been added, and of course when the time comes everything will be suitably arranged. As for the curtains, screens, and portieres, which have to be hung up, I heard yesterday brother Lien# say that they are not as yet complete, that when the works were first taken in hand, the plan of each place was drawn, the measurements accurately calculated and someone dispatched to attend to the things, and that he thought that yesterday half of them were bound to come in.

Chia Cheng, upon hearing this explanation, readily remembered that with all these concerns Chia Chen had nothing to do; so that he speedily sent some one to go and call Chia Lien.

Having arrived in a short while, "How many sorts of things are there in all?" Chia Cheng inquired of him. "Of these how many kinds have by this time been got ready? and how many more are short?"

At this question， Chia Lien# hastily produced， from the flaps of his boot， a paper pocket-book， containing a list， which he kept inside the tops of his boot. After perusing it and reperusing it， he made suitable reply. "Of the hundred and twenty curtains，" he proceeded， "of stiff spotted silks， embroidered with dragons in relief， and of the curtains large and small， of every kind of damask silk， eighty were got yesterday， so that there still remain forty of them to come. The two portieres were both received yesterday； and besides these， there are the two hundred red woollen portieres， two hundred portieres of Hsiang Fei bamboo； two hundred door-screens of rattan， with gold streaks， and of red lacquered bamboo； two hundred portieres of black lacquered rattan； two hundred door-screens of variegated thread-netting with clusters of flowers. Of each of these kinds， half have come in， but the whole lot of them will be complete no later than autumn. Antimacassars， table-cloths， flounces for the beds， and cushions for the stools， there are a thousand two hundred of each， but these likewise are ready and at hand."

As he spoke， they proceeded outwards， but suddenly they perceived a hill extending obliquely in such a way as to intercept the passage； and as they wound round the curve of the hill faintly came to view a line of yellow mud walls， the whole length of which was covered with paddy stalks for the sake of protection， and there were several hundreds of apricot trees in bloom， which presented the appearance of being fire， spurted from the mouth， or russet clouds， rising in the air. Inside this enclosure， stood several thatched cottages. Outside GREw， on the other hand， mulberry trees， elms， mallows， and silkworm oaks， whose tender shoots and new twigs， of every hue， were allowed to bend and to intertwine in such a way as to form two rows of green fence. Beyond this fence and below the white mound， was a well， by the side of which stood a well-sweep， windlass and such like articles； the ground further down being divided into parcels， and apportioned into fields， which， with the fine vegetables and cabbages in flower， presented， at the first glance， the aspect of being illimitable.

"This is，" Chia Cheng observed chuckling， "the place really imbued with a certain amount of the right principle； and laid out， though it has been by human labour， yet when it strikes my eye， it so moves my heart， that it cannot help arousing in me the wish to return to my native place and become a farmer. But let us enter and rest a while."--[[User:Shu Lin|Shu Lin]] ([[User talk:Shu Lin|talk]]) 10:52, 27 April 2021 (UTC)

=Sū Xiāo 苏潇=
说毕，方欲进去，忽见篱门外路旁有一石，
亦为留题之所，众人笑道：“更妙，更妙！此处若悬匾待题，则田舍家风一洗尽
矣。立此一碣，又觉许多生色，非范石湖田家之咏不足以尽其妙。”贾政道：“诸
公请题。”众人云：“方才世兄云：‘编新不如述旧。’此处古人已道尽矣，莫若直
书‘杏花村’为妙。”贾政听了，笑向贾珍道：“正亏提醒了我。此处都好，只是还
少一个酒幌，明日竟做一个来，就依外面村庄的式样，不必华丽，用竹竿挑在树
梢头。”贾珍答应了，又回道：“此处竟不必养别样雀鸟，只养些鹅、鸭、鸡之类，才
相称。”贾政与众人都说：“妙极。”贾政又向众人道：“‘杏花村’固佳，只足犯了
正村名，直待请名方可。”众客都道：“是呀。如今虚的，却是何字样好？”

大家正想，宝玉却等不得了，也不等贾政的命，便说道：“旧诗有云：‘红杏
梢头挂酒旗’。如今莫若且题以‘杏帘在望’四字。”众人都道：“好个‘在望’！又
暗合‘杏花村’意思。”宝玉冷笑道：“村名若用‘杏花’二字，则俗陋不堪了。又
有唐人诗云‘柴门临水稻花香’，何不用‘稻香村’的妙？”众人听了，越发同声拍
手道：“妙！”贾政一声断喝：“无知的业障！你能知道几个古人，能记得几首旧
诗，也敢在老先生前卖弄！方才那些胡说，也不过是试你的清浊，取笑而已，你
就认真了！”

After saying so, Master Merchant was about to enter, suddenly noticing a stone beside the road outside the hedge gate, which was for writing something. People laughed :”It is considerably wonderful! If a plaque was hung here to be named, the family style of the field would be washed away completely. In making this plaque, there are a lot more vivid features here, and other than Stone Lake Model's poem about countryside is not enough to express its best.”Master Merchant said,”Please create a name and write it here.” The others suggested:”Stating the previous, compared with the newly-created, is better. There have been a lot from the ancients, so it would be excellent to write down ‘Apricot Blossoms Village.’”After hearing that, Master Merchant smiled at Treasure Merchant:”That reminds me. All is well except for a wine flag. I’ll bring one tomorrow, just like the style of the village outside. There is no need to be gorgeous, just using a bamboo pole in the treetop head.”

=Tāng Huì 汤惠=
说着，引众人步入茆堂，里面纸窗木榻，富贵气象一洗皆尽。贾政心中自
是欢喜，却瞅宝王道：“此处如何？”众人见问，都忙悄悄的推宝玉教他说好。宝
玉不听人言，便应声道：“不及‘有凤来仪’多矣。”贾政听了道：“无知的蠢物，你
只知朱楼画栋、恶赖富丽为佳，那里知道这清幽气象？终是不读书之过！”宝玉
忙答道：“老爷教训的固是，但古人尝云‘天然’，此字不知何意？”

众人见宝玉牛心，都怪他呆痴不改；今见问“天然”二字，众人忙道：“别的
都明白，如何‘天然’反不明白？‘天然’者，天之自成，而非人力之所为也。”宝
玉道：“却又来！此处置一田庄，分明是人力造作而成：远无邻村，近不负郭，背
山山无脉，临水水无源，高无隐寺之塔，下无通市之桥，峭然孤出，似非大观，怎
似先处有自然之理，得自然之趣？虽种竹引泉，亦不伤穿凿。古人云‘天然图
画’四字，正畏非其地而强为其地，非其山而强为其山，即百般精巧，终不相宜
……”未及说完，贾政气的喝命：“扠出去！”才出去，又喝命：“回来！”命：“再题
一联，若不通，一并打嘴！”宝玉只得念道：

新绿涨添浣葛处，好云香护采芹人。

贾政听了，摇头道：“更不好。”一面引人出来，转过山坡，穿花度柳，抚石依
泉，过了荼蘸架，入木香棚，

Saying that he led the party into one of the cottages. It was quite gorgeous, with paper windows and wooden couches. Secretly pleased, he glanced at Precious Jade and asked, “What do you think of this place?” The guests hinted the boy to express his approval. However, Precious Jade ignored these and answered, “It can’t compare with ‘Where the Phoenix Alights’.” “Ignorant idiot!” Master Merchant sighed. “All you care for are red pavilions and painted beams. With your perverse taste for luxury, how can you appreciate the natural beauty of such a quiet cottage? This comes of neglecting your studies.” “Yes sir,” replied Precious Jade. “But the ancients were always using the term ‘natural’. I wonder what they really meant by it? Afraid he will lead to another trouble, the others hastily put in, “You understand everything well, why ask about the term ‘natural’? It means coming from nature, not human efforts.” “That’s it! The cottages here are obviously artificial and out of place with no villages in the distance, no fields near by, no mountains ranges behind, no source for the stream at hand, above, no pagoda from any half hidden temple, below, no bridge leading to a market. Perched here in isolation, it is nothing like as fine a sight as those places which were far-fetched. The bamboos and streams there didn’t look so artificial. What the ancients called ‘a natural picture’ means precisely that when you insist on an unsuitable site and hills where no hills should be, however skillful you go about it the result is not suitable....” “Get out!” thundered Master Merchant. “Stop, come back. Make another couplet. If it is no good I’ll slap your face on both accounts.” Precious Jade had to comply. He said:

“The green tide fills the creek where clothes are washed; Clouds of fragrance surround the girls plucking water-cress.”

Master Merchant shook his head, “Worse and worse.” With that he led the crowd out. The path now curved around a slope, past flowers and willows, rocks and springs, they entered a tree-peony pavilion.--[[User:Tang Hui|Tang Hui]] ([[User talk:Tang Hui|talk]]) 14:11, 25 May 2021 (UTC)

Saying that he led the party into one of the cottages. It was quite gorgeous, with paper windows and wooden couches. Secretly pleased, he glanced at Precious Jade and asked, “What do you think of this place?” The guests hinted the boy to express his approval. However, Precious Jade ignored these and answered, “It can’t be compared with ‘A Phoenix Comes With Grace to Rest’.” “Ignorant idiot!” Master Merchant sighed. “All you care for are red pavilions and painted beams. With your perverse taste for luxury, how can you appreciate the natural beauty of such a quiet cottage? This comes of neglecting your studies.” “Yes sir,” replied Precious Jade. “But the ancients were always using the term ‘natural’. I wonder what they really meant by it? Afraid he will lead to another trouble, the others hastily put in, “You understand everything well, why ask about the term ‘natural’? It means coming from nature, not human efforts.” “That’s it! The cottages here are obviously artificial and out of place with no villages in the distance, no fields near by, no mountains ranges behind, no source for the stream at hand, above, no pagoda from any half hidden temple, below, no bridge leading to a market. Perched here in isolation, it is nothing like as fine a sight as those places which were far-fetched. The bamboos and streams there didn’t look so artificial. What the ancients called ‘a natural picture’ means precisely that when you insist on an unsuitable site and hills where no hills should be, however skillful you go about it the result is not suitable....” “Get out!” thundered Master Merchant. “Stop, come back. Make another couplet. If it is no good I’ll slap your face on both accounts.” Precious Jade had to comply. He said:

“The green tide fills the creek where clothes are washed; Clouds of fragrance surround the girls plucking water-cress.”

Master Merchant shook his head, “Worse and worse.” With that he led the crowd out. The path now curved around a slope, past flowers and willows, rocks and springs, they entered a tree-peony pavilion.--[[User:Tang Qizhou|Tang Qizhou]] ([[User talk:Tang Qizhou|talk]]) 08:34, 29 May 2021 (UTC)

=Táng Qǐzhōu 唐启洲 Mr.=
越牡丹亭，度芍药圃，入蔷薇院，来到芭蕉坞，盘簇曲折。忽闻水声潺潺，出于石洞；上则萝薜倒垂，下则落花浮荡。众人都道：“好景，好景！”贾政道：“诸公题以何名？”众人道：“再不必拟了，恰恰乎是‘武陵源’三字。”贾政笑道：“又落实了，而且陈旧。”众人笑道：“不然就用‘秦人旧舍’四字也罢。”宝玉道：“越发过露了。‘秦人旧舍’说避乱之意，如何使得？莫若‘蓼汀花溆’四字。”贾政听了道：“更是胡说。”

于是贾政进了港洞，又问贾珍：“有船无船？”贾珍道：“采莲船共四只，座船一只，如今尚未造成。”贾政笑道：“可惜不得入了。”贾珍道：“从山上盘道也可以进去。”说毕，在前导引，大家攀藤抚树过去。只见水上落花愈多，其水愈清，溶溶荡荡，曲折萦纡。池边两行垂柳，杂以桃杏遮天蔽日，真无一些尘土。忽见柳阴中又露出一个折带朱栏板桥来，度过桥去，诸路可通，便见一所清凉瓦舍，一色水磨砖墙，清瓦花堵。那大主山所分之脉，皆穿墙而过。

贾政道：“此处这一所房子，无味的很。”因而步入门时，忽迎面突出插天的大玲珑山石来，四面群绕各式石块，竟把里面所有房屋悉皆遮住。且一株花木也无，只见许多异草：或有牵藤的，或有引蔓的，或垂山巅，或穿石脚，甚至垂檐绕柱，

..., past the Pavilion of Peony and the Garden of Chinese Herbaceous Peony, and reached where the plantain grew, winding and curving. Suddenly they heard the sound of a gushing spring from a cave hidden behind vines, and saw fallen flowers floating on the water below. People exclaimed," What a good scene!" Master Merchant asked them to suggest a name for it.“What would be better than ‘The Spring of Wuling’?” said people.“It's same name as a real place, and how stale it is!” objected Master Merchant with a smile.“Then how about 'The Refuge of a Man of Qin'?”“That's even more impossible,” said Precious Jade. “How can we use something that implies taking refuge in the wartime? I would suggest ‘Smartweed Bank and Flowery Harbor.”“That's more like a nonsense,” commented Master Merchant.

Then Master Merchant strolled to the water’s edge and asked Treasure Merchant, “Any boats here?”“There will be four boats for lotus-gathering and one boat for sight-seeing, but they haven't been prepared yet.”“What a pity we can’t enter it!”“We can go by the path on the hills,” said Treasure Merchant who then led the way, and the others followed there, clinging to creepers and trees. There were more fallen flowers floating on the water, which was clearer than ever as it swirled down. The stream was accompanied by weeping willows and peach and apricot trees, so lush that they screened the sun, and there was no dust in the air. Suddenly, in the shade of the willows, they saw an arched wooden bridge with scarlet railings, over which lay paths to everywhere. However, their attention was caught by an airy house of smooth brick with spotless tiles and an ornamental wall on one of the lesser slopes of the main hill.

“That building seems inappropriate here,” remarked Master Merchant. When he stepped in, he was greeted by tall weathered rocks of every description which hid the house from sight. There were no trees and flowers but abundant rare grasses, stretching their vines, falling from the artificial mountains, growing through the rocks, hanging from the eaves, winding the pillar...--[[User:Tang Qizhou|Tang Qizhou]] ([[User talk:Tang Qizhou|talk]]) 14:42, 6 May 2021 (UTC)

=Téng Bìxiá 滕璧霞=
萦砌盘阶，或如翠带飘飘，或如金绳蟠屈，或实若丹砂，或花如金桂，味香
气馥，非凡花之可比。贾政不禁道：“有趣！只是不大认识。”有的说：“是薜荔
藤萝。”贾政道：“薛荔藤萝那得有此异香？”宝玉道：“果然不是。这众草中也有
藤萝薜荔，那香的是杜若蘅芜，那一种大约是茝兰，这一种大约是金葛，那一种
是金?草，这一种是玉蕗藤，红的自然是紫芸，绿的定是青芷。想来那《离骚》
《文选》所有的那些异草，有叫作什么霍纳姜汇的，也有叫作什么纶组紫绛的，
还有什么石帆、水松、扶留等样的，见于左太冲《吴都赋》。又有叫作什么绿荑
的，还有什幺丹椒、蘸芜、风莲，见于《蜀都赋》。如今年深岁改，人不能识，故皆
象形夺名，渐渐的唤差了，也是有的……”未及说完，贾政喝道：“谁问你来？”唬
的宝玉倒退，不敢再说。

贾政因见两边俱是超手游廊，便顺着游廊步入，只见上面五间清厦连着卷
棚，四面出廊，绿窗油壁，更比前清雅不同。贾政叹道：“此轩中煮茶操琴，亦不
必再焚香矣。此造却出意外，诸公必有佳作新题，以颜其额，方不负此。”众人笑
道：“莫若‘兰风蕙露’贴切了。”贾政道：“也只好用这四字。其联云何？”一人
道：“我想了一对，大家批削改正。”道是：

麝兰芳霭斜阳院，杜若香飘明月洲。
...grew through the rocks, hung from the eaves, twined round the pillars and carpeted the steps. Some seemed like floating green belts or golden bands; others had berries red as cinnabar and flowers like golden osmanthus which gave off a penetrating scent, unlike the scent of ordinary flowers.“This is charming!” Master Merchant could not help exclaiming,“but I am not familiar with them."“Climbing fig and wistaria?” someone suggested.“Master Merchant said :"but they don’t have such a strange fragrance, do they?”“They certainly don’t,” said Precious Jade. “There are climbing fig and wistaria here, but the fragrance comes from alpinia and snakeroot. That one over there is iris, I fancy, and here we have dolichos, dwarf-mallow and glyrcyrrhia. That crimson plant is purple rue, of course; the green, angelica.A lot of these rare plants are mentioned in the Li Sao and Wen Xuan, plants with names like huona, jiangqian, lunzu and zijiang; shifan, shuisong and fuliu; luyi, danjiao, miwu and fenglian.But after all these centuries scholars can no longer identify these plants, for which new names have been found…”“Who asked your opinion?” roared his father. Precious Jade stepped back nervously and said no more.Finding corridors ran along both sides of this court, Master Merchant led his party down one of these to a cool five-section gallery with roofed verandahs on four sides, green windows and painted walls, more elegant than any they had yet seen.“One could brew tea here and play the lyre without having to burn rare incense.”He sighed appreciatively, “This is certainly unexpected. We need a good inscription, gentlemen, to do it justice.”“What could be apter than ‘Wind in the Orchids and Dew on Angelicas’?” one ventured.“I suppose we have no other choice. Now what about a couplet?”“I have thought of one,” said another. “The rest of you must correct it.”Fragrance of musk-orchids fills the court at dusk,Scent of alpinia floats to the moonlit island.

=Wáng Chǔyí 王楚仪=
众人道：“妙则妙矣！只是‘斜阳’二字不妥。”那人引古诗“蘼芜满院泣斜阳”
句，众人云：“颓丧，颓丧！”又一人道：“我也有一联，诸公评阅评阅。”念道：
三径香风飘玉蕙，一庭明月照金兰。

贾政拈须沉吟，意欲也题一联，忽抬头见宝玉在旁不敢作声，因喝道：“怎
么你应说话时又不说了？还要等人请教你不成！”宝玉听了回道：“此处并没有
什么‘兰麝’、‘明月’、‘洲渚’之类，若要这样着迹说来，就题二百联也不能完。”
贾政道：“谁接着你的头，教你必定说这些字样呢？”宝玉道：‘如此说，则匾上莫
若‘蘅芷清芬’四字。对联则是：

吟成豆蔻诗犹艳，睡足荼?梦也香。”

贾政笑道：“这是套的‘书成蕉叶文犹绿’，不足为奇。”众人道：“李太白‘凤凰台’之作，全套‘黄鹤楼’。只要套得妙。如今细评起来，方才这一联竟比‘书成蕉叶’尤觉幽雅活动。”贾政笑道：“岂有此理！”

说着，大家出来，走不多远，则见崇阁巍峨，层楼高起，面面琳宫合抱，迢迢
复道萦纤。青松拂檐，玉兰绕砌，金辉兽面，彩焕螭头。贾政道：“这是正殿了。
只是太富丽了些。”众人都道：“要如此方是。虽然贵妃崇尚节俭，然今日之尊，
礼仪如此，不为过也。”一面说，一面走，只见正面现出一座玉石牌坊，上面龙蟠螭护，玲垅凿就。

“Very good,” they commented. “Only the reference to ‘dusk’ seems inappropriate.”He then quoted the old poem with the line, “The alpinia in the court weeps in the dusk.”“Too sad, too sad,” they protested.“Here’s one for your consideration.” said another.

Along three paths white angelica scents the breeze,
In the court a bright moon shines on golden orchids.

Master Merchant thoughtfully tugged at his beard and seemed about to propose a couplet himself when, raising his head, he caught sight of Precious Jade, now afraid to open his mouth. “Well?” he said sternly. “When it’s time to speak you say nothing. Are you waiting to be begged for the favour of your instruction?”“We have no musk, moon or islands here,” said Precious Jade. “If you want allusive couplets of that kind, we can easily compose hundreds.”
“Who is putting pressure on you to use those words?”“Well then, I suggest ‘Pure Scent of Alpinia and Iris.’” And for the couplet:

Singing on cardamons makes lovely poetry;
Sleeping beneath roses induces sweet dreams.

Master Merchant laughed. “You got that from the line ‘Write on plantain leaves and green is the writing.’ This is mere plagiarism.”“There’s nothing wrong with plagiarism provided it’s well done,” countered the others. “Even Li Bai copied from Yellow Crane Pavilion when he wrote his Phoenix Tower. If you consider this couplet carefully, sir, it is livelier and more poetical than the original. It even looks as if the other line plagiarizes this by our young master.”
“Preposterous!” Master Merchant smiled.
From there they went on some way until ahead of them loomed towering pavilions enclosed by magnificent buildings, all of them connected by winding passageways. Green pines brushed the eaves, white balustrades skirted the steps, the animal designs glittered like gold and the dragon-heads blazed with colour.“This must be the main reception palace,” observed Master Merchant. “Its one fault is that it is too luxurious.” “Unavoidably so,” they reasoned. “Although Her Royal Highness prizes frugality, this is no more than is due to her present exalted rank.”They were now at the foot of a marble arch finely carved with rampant dragons and coiling serpents.

--[[User:Wang Chuyi|Wang Chuyi]] ([[User talk:Wang Chuyi|talk]]) 06:22, 8 May 2021 (UTC)

“Very good,” they commented. “Only the reference to ‘dusk’ seems inappropriate.”He then quoted the old poem with the line, “The alpinia in the court weeps in the dusk.”“Too sad, too sad,” they protested.“Here’s one for your consideration.” said another.

Along three paths white angelica scents the breeze,
In the court a bright moon shines on golden orchids.

Master Merchant thoughtfully tugged at his beard and seemed about to propose a couplet himself when, raising his head, he caught sight of Precious Jade, now afraid to open his mouth. “Well?” he said sternly. “When it’s time to speak you say nothing. Are you waiting to be begged for the favor of your instruction?”“We have no so called musk, moon or islands here,” said Precious Jade. “If you want allusive couplets of that kind, we can easily compose hundreds.”
“Who is putting pressure on you to use those words?”“Well then, I suggest ‘Pure Scent of Alpinia and Iris.’” And for the couplet:

Singing on cardamons makes lovely poetry;
Sleeping beneath roses induces sweet dreams.

Master Merchant laughed. “You got that from the line ‘Write on plantain leaves and green is the writing.’ This is mere plagiarism.”“There’s nothing wrong with plagiarism provided it’s well done,” countered the others. “Even Li Bai copied from Yellow Crane Pavilion when he wrote his Phoenix Tower. If you consider this couplet carefully, sir, it is livelier and more poetical than the original. It even looks as if the other line plagiarizes this by our young master.”
“Preposterous!” Master Merchant smiled.
From there they went on some way until ahead of them loomed towering pavilions enclosed by magnificent buildings, all of them connected by winding passageways. Green pines brushed the eaves, white balustrades skirted the steps, the animal designs glittered like gold and the dragon-heads blazed with colour.“This must be the main reception palace,” observed Master Merchant. “Its one fault is that it is too luxurious.” “Unavoidably so,” they reasoned. “Although Her Royal Highness prizes frugality, this is no more than is due to her present exalted rank.”They were now at the foot of a marble arch finely carved with rampant dragons and coiling serpents.--[[User:Wang Jingyi|Wang Jingyi]] ([[User talk:Wang Jingyi|talk]]) 15:52, 1 June 2021 (UTC)

=Wáng Jìngyí 王静怡=
贾政道：“此处书以何文？”众人道“必是‘蓬莱仙境’方妙。”
贾政摇头不语。

宝玉见了这个所在，心中忽有所动，寻思起来，倒像在那里见过的一般，却
一时想不起那年那月日的事了。贾政又命他题咏，宝玉只顾细思前景，全无心
于此了。众人不知其意，只当他受了这半日折磨，精神耗散，才尽词穷了；再要
留难逼迫着了急，或生出事来，倒不便。遂忙都劝贾政道：“罢了，明日再题罢
了。”贾政心中也怕贾母不放心，遂冷笑道：“你这畜生，也竟有不能之时了。也
罢，限你一日，明日题不来，定不饶你。这是第一要紧处所，要好生作来！”

说着，引人出来，再一观望，原来自进门至此，才游了十之五六。又值人来
回，有雨村处遣人回话。贾政笑道：“此数处不能游了。虽如此，到底从那一边
出去，也可略观大概。”说着，引客行来，至一大桥，水如晶帘一般奔入。原来这
桥便是通外河之闸，引泉而入者。贾政因问：“此闸何名？”宝玉道：“此乃沁芳
源之正流，即名‘沁芳闸’。”贾政道：“胡说，偏不用‘沁芳’二字。”

于是一路行来，或清堂，或茅舍，或堆石为垣，或编花为门，或山下得幽尼佛
寺，或林中藏女道丹房，或长廊曲洞，或方厦圆亭，贾政皆不及进去。因半日未
尝歇息，腿酸脚软，忽又见前面露出一所院落来，

“What should be inscribed here?” asked Master Merchant. “‘The Fairy Land of Penglai’?” He shook his head and said nothing. As for Precious Jade, he felt strangely stirred by this sight, as if he had seen a place of this kind before: though just when he could not remember. Called upon to compose an inscription, he was too preoccupied to think of anything else. The others, not knowing this, imagined that his wits were wandering and he was exhausted after his long ordeal. Fearing that if he were pressed too hard the consequences might be serious, they urged his father to give him a day’s grace. Master Merchant, aware that his mother might well be anxious, said with an ironic smile, “So sometimes you are at a loss too, you young rascal. Very well, I’ll give you until tomorrow. But if no inscription is ready then, so much the worse for you. This is the most important place, so mind you do your best.” They continued with the tour of inspection and had covered little more than half the grounds when a servant reported that someone had arrived with a message from Rain Village. “We can’t see the rest of the places,” said Master Merchant. “But by going out the other way we can at least get a general idea, even if we don’t see them all.” He led the way to a large bridge above a crystal curtain of cascading water. This was the sluice admitting water from outside. Master Merchant asked for a name for it. “Rubbish.” said his father. “Since this is the source of the River of Seeping Fragrance it could be called ‘Seeping Fragrance Lock,”’ Precious Jade suggested. “We just won’t have ‘Seeping Fragrance.” On they went past quiet lodges and thatched huts, stone walls and pergolas of flowers, a temple secluded in the hills and a convent half hidden among the trees, long covered walks, meandering grottoes, square mansions and round kiosks, none of which they had time to enter. However, it was so long since their last rest that all were footsore and weary by the time they saw another lodge in front, --[[User:Wang Jingyi|Wang Jingyi]] ([[User talk:Wang Jingyi|talk]]) 15:23, 1 June 2021 (UTC)

=Wáng Qìnyú 王沁瑜=
贾政道：“到此可要歇息歇息
了。”说着一径引入，绕着碧桃花，穿过竹篱花障编就的月洞门，俄见粉垣环护，
绿柳周垂。贾政与众人进了门，两边尽是游廊相接，院中点衬几块山石，一边种
几本芭蕉，那一边是一株西府海棠，其势若伞，丝垂金缕，葩吐丹砂。众人都道：
“好花，好花！海棠也有，从没见过这样好的。”贾政道：“这叫做‘女儿棠’，乃是
外国之种，俗传出‘女儿国’，故花最繁盛，亦荒唐不经之说耳。”众人道：“毕竟
此花不同，‘女国’之说，想亦有之。”宝玉云：“大约骚人咏士以此花红若施脂，
弱如扶病，近乎闺阁风度，故以‘女儿’命名。世人以讹传讹，都未免认真了。”
众人都说：“领教，妙解！”

一面说话，一面都在廊下榻上坐了。贾政因道：“想几个什么新鲜字来
题？”一客道：“‘蕉鹤’二字妙。”又一个道：“‘崇光泛彩’方妙。”贾政与众人都
道：“好个‘祟光泛彩’！”宝玉也道：“妙。”又说：“只是可惜了。”众人问：“如何可
惜？”宝玉道：“此处蕉棠两植，其意暗蓄‘红’‘绿’二字在内，若说一样，遗漏一
样，便不足取。”贾政道：“依你如何？”宝玉道：“依我，题‘红香绿玉’四字，方两
全其美。”贾政摇头道：“不好，不好！”

说着，引人进入房内。
Master Merchant said, “Here we must take a rest.” Then,he led the way in past some double-flowering peach in blossom and through a moon-gate made of bamboo over which climbed flowering plants. Whitewashed walls and green willows confronted them then. Along the walls ran covered corridors, and the rockery in the centre of the courtyard was flanked on one side by plantains, on the other by a red multi-petalled crab-apple tree, its branches trained in the shape of an umbrella, with green trailing tendrils and petals red as cinnabar. “What superb blossoms!” they exclaimed. “We have never seen such a splendid one before.”
“This is a foreign variety called ‘Maiden Apple,’” Master Merchant told them.
“Tradition has it that it comes from the Land of Maidens, and that it blossoms profusely in that country; but that is nothing but an old wives’ tale.”
“If so, how did the name come to be handed down?” they wondered.
“Quite likely the name ‘Maiden’ was given by some poet,” said Precious Jade，“because this flower is as red as rouged cheeks and as frail as a delicate girl. Then some vulgar character made up that story and ignorant people believed it.”
“A most plausible explanation,” said the others.

They sat down on some benches in the corridor and Master Merchant at once asked for another inscription. “Plantains and Storks’?” one proposed. ‘‘Or ‘Towering Splendour and Shimmering Radiance.’”another one said. Master Merchant and the rest approved, as indeed did Precious Jade , adding, “It’s a pity, though...” Asked to explain himself, he said, “Plantain and crabapple blossom suggest both red and green. It’s a pity to refer to one and not the other.” “What do you suggest then?” Master Merchant said.“ Something like ‘Red Fragrance and Green Jade’ would bring out the charm of both, I think.”“Not fit!” Master Merchant shook his head. He led the way into the building.

Master Merchant said, “Here we must have a rest.” Then, he led the way in past some double-flowering peach in blossom and through a moon-gate made of bamboo over which climbed flowering plants. Whitewashed walls and green willows confronted them then. Along the walls ran covered corridors, and the rockery in the centre of the courtyard was flanked on one side by plantains, on the other by a red multi-petalled crab-apple tree, its branches trained in the shape of an umbrella, with green trailing tendrils and petals red as cinnabar. “What superb blossoms!” they exclaimed. “We have never seen such a splendid one before.”
“This is a foreign variety called ‘Maiden Apple,” Master Merchant told them.
“Tradition has it that it comes from the Land of Maidens, and that it blossoms profusely in that country; but that is nothing but an old wives’ tale.”
“If so, how did the name come to be handed down?” they wondered.
“Quite likely the name ‘Maiden’ was given by some poet,” said Precious Jade，“because this flower is as red as rouged cheeks and as frail as a delicate girl. Then some vulgar character made up that story and ignorant people believed it.”
“A most plausible explanation,” said the others.

They sat down on some benches in the corridor and Master Merchant at once asked for another inscription. “Plantains and Storks’?” one proposed. ‘‘Or ‘Towering Splendour and Shimmering Radiance.’”another one said. Master Merchant and the rest approved, as indeed did Precious Jade , adding, “It’s a pity, though...” Asked to explain himself, he said, “Plantain and crabapple blossom suggest both red and green. It’s a pity to refer to one and not the other.” “What do you suggest then?” Master Merchant said.“ Something like ‘Red Fragrance and Green Jade’ would bring out the charm of both, I think.” “Not fit!” Master Merchant shook his head. He led the way into the building.
--[[User:Wang Zihan|Wang Zihan]] ([[User talk:Wang Zihan|talk]]) 09:07, 9 June 2021 (UTC)

=Wáng Zǐhán 王子涵=
只见其中收拾的与别处不同，竟分不出间隔来的。
原来四面皆是雕空玲珑木板，或“流云百蝠”，或“岁寒三友”，或山水人物，或翎
毛花卉，或集锦，或博占，或万福万寿，各种花样，皆是名手雕镂，五彩销金嵌玉
的。一槅一槅，或贮书，或设鼎，或安置笔砚，或供设瓶花，或安放盆景；萁槅式
样，或圆，或方，或葵花蕉叶，或连环半璧。真是花团锦簇，玲珑剔透。倏尔五色
纱糊，竟系小窗；倏尔彩绫轻覆，竟如幽户。且满墙皆是随依古董玩器之形抠成
的槽子，如琴、剑、悬瓶之类，俱悬于壁，却都是与壁相平的。众人都赞：“好精
致！难为怎么做的！”

原来贾政走了进来，未到两层，便都迷了旧路，左瞧也有门可通，右瞧也有
窗暂隔，及到跟前，又被一架书挡住。回头又有窗纱明透门径可行，及至门前，
忽见迎面也进来了一起人，与自己的形相一样，——却是一架大玻璃镜。转过
镜去一发见门多了。贾珍笑道：“老爷随我来，从此门出去便是后院，出了后
院，倒比先近了。”引着贾政及众人转了两层纱厨，果得一门出去，院中满架蔷
薇。转过花障，则见青溪前阻。众人咤异：“这水又从何而来？”贾珍遥指道：
“原从那闸起流至那洞口，从东北山坳里引到那村庄里，又开一道岔口，引至西
南上，共总流到这里，仍旧合在一处，从那墙下出去。”
It was unusually set out with no clear-cut divisions between the different rooms. They were beautifully carved with the motifs “clouds and a hundred bats” of the “three companions of winter”: pine, plum and bamboo, as well as landscapes and figures, birds and flowers, scrollwork, imitation curios and symbols of good fortune or long life. All executed by the finest craftsmen, they were brilliantly coloured and inlaid with gold or precious stones. There were only partitions formed of shelves for books, bronze tripods, stationery, flower vases and miniature gardens, some round, some square, some shaped like sunflowers, plantain leaves or intersecting arcs. The effect was splendid, the workmanship exquisite. Here a strip of coloured gauze concealed a small window, there a gorgeous curtain hid a door. There were also niches on the walls to fit antiques, lyres, swords, vases or other ornaments, which hung level with the surface of the wall. Their amazement and admiration for the craftsmen’s ingenuity knew no bounds.
After passing two partitions Jia Zheng and his party lost their way. To their left they saw a door, to their right a window; but when they went forward their passage was blocked by a bookshelf. Turning back they glimpsed the way through another window; but on reaching the door they suddenly saw a party just like their own confronting them: they were looking at a big mirror. Passing round this they came to more doorways. “Follow me, sir,” urged Jia Zhen with a smile. “Let me take you to the back courtyard and show you a short cut.” He conducted them past two gauze screens out into a courtyard filled with rose trellises. Skirting round the fence, Baoyu saw a clear stream in front. All exclaimed in astonishment, “Where does this water come from?” Jia Zhen pointed to a spot in the distance. “It flows from that lock we saw through the ravine, then from the northeast valley to the little farm, where some is diverted southwest. Here both streams converge to flow out underneath the wall.”--[[User:Wang Zihan|Wang Zihan]] ([[User talk:Wang Zihan|talk]]) 09:05, 9 June 2021 (UTC)

It was unusually set out with no clear-cut divisions between the different rooms. They were beautifully carved with the motifs “floating clouds and a hundred bats”or the “three companions of winter”: pine, plum and bamboo, as well as landscapes and figures, birds and flowers, scrollwork, imitation curios and symbols of good fortune or long life. All executed by the finest craftsmen, they were brilliantly coloured and inlaid with gold or precious stones. There were only partitions formed of shelves for books, bronze tripods, stationery, flower vases and miniature gardens, some round, some square, some shaped like sunflowers, plantain leaves or intersecting arcs. The effect was splendid, the workmanship exquisite. Here a strip of coloured gauze concealed a small window, there a gorgeous curtain hid a door. There were also niches on the walls to fit antiques, lyres, swords, vases or other ornaments, which hung level with the surface of the wall. Everyone was amazed by the work’s delicacy and the craftsmen’s ingenuity .
After passing two partitions Master Merchant and his party lost their way. To their left they saw a door, to their right a window; but when they went forward their passage was blocked by a bookshelf. Turning back they glimpsed the way through another window; but on reaching the door they suddenly saw a party just like their own confronting them: they were looking at a big mirror. Passing round this they came to more doorways. “Follow me, sir,” urged Master Merchant with a smile. “Let me take you to the back courtyard and show you a short cut.” He conducted them past two gauze screens out into a courtyard filled with rose trellises. Skirting round the fence, Precious Jade saw a clear stream in front. All exclaimed in astonishment, “Where does this water come from?” Master Merchant pointed to a spot in the distance. “It flows from that lock we saw through the ravine, then from the northeast valley to the little farm, where some is diverted southwest. Here both streams converge to flow out underneath the wall.”--[[User:Wu Siyi|Wu Siyi]] ([[User talk:Wu Siyi|talk]]) 03:00, 14 June 2021 (UTC)

=Wǔ Sīyí 伍斯仪=
众人听了，都道：“神妙之
极！”说着，忽见大山阻路，众人都谜了路，贾珍笑道：“随我来。”乃在前导引，众
人随着，由山脚下一转，便是平坦大路，豁然大门现于面前，众人都道：“有趣，有
趣！搜神夺巧，至于此极！”于是大家出来。

那宝玉一心只记挂着里边姊妹们，又不见贾政吩咐，只得跟到书房。贾政
忽想起来道：“你还不去，看老太太记念你。难道还逛不足么？”宝玉方退了出
来。至院外，就有跟贾政的小厮上来抱住，说道：“今日亏了老爷喜欢，方才老太
太打发人出来问了几次，我们回说老爷喜欢；若不然，老太太叫你进去了，就不
得展才了。人人都说，你才那些诗比众人都强，今儿得了彩头，该赏我们了。”宝
玉笑道：“每人一吊。”众人道：“谁没见那一吊钱！把这荷包赏了罢。”说着，一
个个都上来解荷包，解扇袋，不容分说，将宝玉所佩之物，尽行解去。又道：“好
生送上去罢。”一个个围绕着，送至贾母门前。那时贾母正等着他，见他来了，知
道不曾难为他，心中自是喜欢。

少时袭人倒了茶来，见身边佩物，一件不存，因笑道：“带的东西必又是那
起没脸的东西们解了去了。”林黛玉听说，走过来一瞧，果然一件无存，因向宝玉
道：“我给你的那个荷包也给他们了？你明儿再想我的东西，可不能够了！”

“Miraculous!” they marveled. Now another hill blocked their way and they all got lost. But Treasure Merchant laughed and said, “following me,” and as soon as they rounded the foot of the hill they found themselves on a smooth highway not far from the main entrance. “How interesting,” they said. “How fabulous.” And then they left the garden.
Precious Jade was longing to get back to the girls, but receiving no dismissal from his father he had to follow him to the library. Now Master Merchant suddenly remembered his presence. “Why are you still here?” he demanded. “Haven’t you had enough of wandering around? The old lady will be worrying about you. She’s wasting her love on you. Off you go, quick.” Then at last Precious Jade could withdraw. As soon as Precious Jade was out of the courtyard, the pages who attended Master Merchant stepped forward to throw their arms around his waist. They said, “It’s lucky for you that the master was in such a good mood today. The old lady sent several times to ask how things were, and you should thank us for telling her he looked pleased. Otherwise she’d have sent for you and you wouldn't have had this chance to shine. Everybody said your poems were the best. “Today’s your lucky day, so give us a tip.” “You shall each have a string of cash,” he promised them. “Who hasn’t seen a string of cash?” cried one. “Give me your pouch.” Swarming round without so much as a “by your leave,” they stripped him of his scented pouch, fan-sheath and other pendants. “Now let’s see him back!” they cried. With one of them carrying him, the others in a troop escorted him along to the outer courtyard of the Grandma Merchant’s apartments. Since she had sent several times to see how her grandson was faring, she was naturally pleased when her nannies and maids brought him in, none the worse for his experience.
When presently Aroma handed him tea she noticed that not one of his pendants was left. “So those shameless wretches have taken all your things again,” she remarked with a smile. Mascara Jade Forest came over to see if this was true. Sure enough, all his trinkets had gone. “So you’ve given them that pouch I made you too!” she remarked. “All right, that’s the last thing you’ll ever get from me.”

=Wú Xīnxīn 吴欣欣=
说
毕，生气回房，将前日宝玉嘱咐他做而未完之香袋，章起剪子来就铰。宝玉见他
生气，便忙赶过来，早已剪破了。宝玉曾见过这香袋，虽未完工，却十分精巧，无
故剪了，却也可气。因忙把衣领解了，从里面衣襟上将所系荷包解了下来，递与
黛玉道“你瞧瞧，这是什么东西？我可曾把你的东西给人？”林黛玉见他如此
珍重，带在里面，可知是怕人拿去之意，因此又自悔莽撞剪了香袋，低着头一言
不发。宝玉道：“你也不用剪，我知你是懒怠给我东西。我连这荷包奉还，何
如？”说着掷向他怀中而去。黛玉越发气得哭了，拿起荷包又剪。宝玉忙回身
抢住，笑道：“好妹妹，饶了他罢！”黛玉将剪子一摔，拭泪说道：“你不用合我好
一阵歹一阵的，要恼就撂开手。”说着赌气上床，面向里倒下拭泪。禁不住宝玉
上来“妹妹”长“妹妹”短赔不是。

前面贾母一片声找宝玉。众人回说：“在林姑娘房里。”贾母听说道：“好，
好，好！让他姊妹们一处玩玩罢。才他老子拘了他这半天，让他开心一会子罢。
只别叫他们拌嘴。”众人答应着。

黛玉被宝玉缠不过，只得起来道：“你的意思不叫我安生，我就离了你。”说
着往外就走。宝玉笑道：“你到那里，我跟到那里。”一面仍拿着荷包来带上。
黛玉伸手抢道：“你说不要，这会子又带上，我也替你怪臊的！”说着“嗤”的一声
笑了。

After uttering these words， she returned into her apartment in high dudgeon， and taking the scented bag， which Precious Jade had asked her to make for him， and which she had not as yet finished， she picked up a pair of scissors， and instantly cut it into pieces.

Precious Jade noticing that she had lost her temper， came after her with hurried steps， but the bag had already been cut with the scissors； and as Precious Jade had observed how extremely fine and artistic this scented bag was， in spite of its unfinished state， he verily deplored that it should have been rent to pieces for no reason. Promptly therefore unbuttoning his coat， he produced from inside the lapel the purse， which had been fastened there. "Look at this！" he remarked as he handed it to Mascara Jade； "what kind of thing is this！ have I given away to any one what was yours？" Lin Mascara Jade， upon seeing how much he prized it as to wear it within his clothes， became alive to the fact that it was done with intent， as he feared lest any one should take it away； and as this conviction made her sorry that she had been so impetuous as to have cut the scented bag， she lowered her head and uttered not a word.

"there was really no need for you to have cut it，" Precious Jade observed； "but as I know that you're loth to give me anything， what do you say to my returning even this purse？"

With these words， he threw the purse in her lap and walked off； which vexed Mascara Jade so much the more that， after giving way to tears， she took up the purse in her hands to also destroy it with the scissors， when Precious Jade precipitately turned round and snatched it from her grasp.

"My dear cousin，" he smilingly pleaded， "do spare it！" and as Mascara Jade dashed down the scissors and wiped her tears： "You needn't，" she urged， "be kind to me at one moment， and unkind at another； if you wish to have a tiff， why then let's part company！" But as she spoke， she lost control over her temper， and， jumping on her bed， she lay with her face turned towards the inside， and set to work drying her eyes.

Precious Jade could not refrain from approaching her. "My dear cousin， my own cousin，" he added， "I confess my fault！"

"Go and find Precious Jade！" dowager Grandma Merchant thereupon gave a shout from where she was in the front apartment， and all the attendants explained that he was in Miss Lin's room.

"All right， that will do！ that will do！" her ladyship rejoined， when she heard this reply； "let the two cousins play together； his father kept him a short while back under check， for ever so long， so let him have some distraction. But the only thing is that you mustn't allow them to have any quarrels." To which the servants in a body expressed their obedience.

Mascara Jade， unable to put up with Precious Jade's importunity， felt compelled to rise. "Your object seems to be，" she remarked， "not to let me have any rest. If it is， I'll run away from you." Saying which， she there and then was making her way out， when Precious Jade protested with a face full of smiles： "Wherever you go， I'll follow！" and as he， at the same time， took the purse and began to fasten it on him， Mascara Jade stretched out her hand， and snatching it away， "You say you don't want it，" she observed， "and now you put it on again！ I'm really much ashamed on your account！" And these words were still on her lips when with a sound of Ch'ih， she burst out laughing.

After speaking these words， she returned into her apartment in high dudgeon， and taking the scented bag， which Precious Jade had asked her to make for him， and which she had not as yet finished， she picked up a pair of scissors， and instantly cut it to pieces.

Precious Jade noticing that she had lost her temper， came after her with hurried step， but the bag had already been cut with the scissors； and as Precious Jade observed how extremely fine and artistic this scented bag was， in spite of its unfinished state， he verily deplored that it should have been rent to pieces for no rhyme or reason. Promptly therefore unbuttoning his coat， he produced from inside the lapel the purse， which had been fastened there. "Look at this！" he remarked as he handed it to Mascara Jade； "what kind of thing is this！ have I given away to any one what was yours？" Lin Mascara Jade， upon seeing how much he prized it as to wear it within his clothes， became alive to the fact that it was done with intent， as he feared lest any one should take it away； and as this conviction made her sorry that she had been so impetuous as to have cut the scented bag， she lowered her head and uttered not a word.

"there was really no need for you to have cut it，" Precious Jade observed； "but as I know that you're loth to give me anything， what do you say to my returning even this purse？"

With these words， he threw the purse on her lap and walked off； which vexed Mascara Jade so much the more that， after giving way to tears， she took up the purse in her hands to also destroy it with the scissors， when Precious Jade precipitately turned round and snatched it from her grasp.

"My dear cousin，" he smilingly pleaded， "do spare it！" and as Mascara Jade dashed down the scissors and wiped her tears： "You needn't，" she urged， "be kind to me at one moment， and unkind at another； if you wish to have a tiff， why then let's part company！" But as she spoke， she lost control over her temper， and， jumping on her bed， she lay with her face turned towards the inside， and set to work drying her eyes.

Precious Jade could not refrain from approaching her. "My dear cousin， my own cousin，" he added， "I confess my fault！"

"Go and find Precious Jade！" dowager Grandma Merchant thereupon gave a shout from where she was in the front apartment， and all the attendants explained that he was in Miss Lin's room.

"All right， that will do！ that will do！" her ladyship rejoined， when she heard this reply； "let the two cousins play together； his father kept him a short while back under check， for ever so long， so let him have some distraction. But the only thing is that you mustn't allow them to have any quarrels." To which the servants in a body expressed their obedience.

Mascara Jade， unable to put up with Precious Jade's importunity， felt compelled to rise. "Your object seems to be，" she remarked， "not to let me have any rest. If it is， I'll run away from you." Saying which， she there and then was making her way out， when Precious Jade protested with a face full of smiles： "Wherever you go， I'll follow！" and as he， at the same time， took the purse and began to fasten it on him， Mascara Jade stretched out her hand， and snatching it away， "You say you don't want it，" she observed， "and now you put it on again！ I'm really much ashamed on your account！" And these words were still on her lips when with a sound of Ch'ih， she burst out laughing.--[[User:Yao Yang|Yao Yang]] ([[User talk:Yao Yang|talk]]) 15:58, 14 June 2021 (UTC)

=Yāo Yáng 么阳=
宝玉道：“好妹妹，明儿另替我做个香袋儿罢。”黛玉道：“那也瞧我的高
兴罢了。”

一面说，一面二人出房，到王夫人上房中去了，可巧宝钗亦在那里。此时
王夫人那边热闹非常。原来贾蔷已从姑苏采买了十二个女孩子并聘了教习以
及行头等事来了。那时薛姨妈另迁于东北上一所幽静房舍居住，将梨香院另行
修理了，就令教习在此教演女戏；又另派家中旧曾学过歌唱的众女人们——如
今皆是皤然老妪，着他们带领管理。就令贾蔷总理其日月出入银钱等事，以及
诸凡大小所需之物料账目。

又有林之孝家的来回：“采访聘买得十二个小尼姑、小道姑，都到了，连新
做的二十分道袍也有了。外又有一个带发修行的，本是苏州人氏，祖上也是读
书仕宦之家，因自幼多病，买了许多替身，皆不中用，到底这姑娘入了空门，方才
好了，所以带发修行。今年十八岁，取名妙玉。如今父母俱已亡故，身边只有两
个老嬷嬷、一个小丫头伏侍。文墨也极通，经典也极熟，模样又极好。因听说
‘长安’都中有观音遗迹，并贝叶遗文，去年随了师父上来，现在西门外牟尼院
住着。他师父精演先天神数，于去冬圆寂了。遗言说他：‘不宜回乡，在此静候，
自有结果。’所以未曾扶灵回去。”王夫人便道：“这样我们何不接了他来？”林之
孝家的回道：“若请他，他说：‘侯门公府，必以贵势压人，我再不去的。’”
Precious Jade said:” Friendly sister, please make a perfume pouch for me in future.” Mascara Jade replied:” That is up to my mood.” While speaking, they left for Lady King’s best room. Precious Hairpin happened to be there. Meanwhile, there was a noise for Rose Merchant had bought twelve girls and employed instructors and professional clothes. At that time, Aunt Marshgrass moved to a quiet house in the northeast, so Pear Fragrance Court was repaired and used for play-training to those girls. And other women in the house who learned singing, now old, was sent to help to manage. Rose Merchant was ordered to take charge in the daily expenses, the tally and other things.
Filial Piety Forest's Wife came and said:” The twelve buddhist nuns and Taoist nuns all arrived. The twenty new-made costumes are ready. Besides, there is a haired nun. She is from Soochow. Her family has the tradition of reading and being official. Because of her weak body, though many selected ringers, she has to serve a religious belief in person. After doing so, her health became better. That’s why she still has hair. Now she is 18 years old and named Wonderful Jade. Her parents died, only two old women and a little girl looking after her. She is not only beautiful but also good at reading and writing and she is familiar with classics. Heard of there are Avalokitesvara (Guanyin) relics and the remains of buddhist texts writing on the leaves in Forever Peaceful Capital, she came with her master last year. He was good at reading one’s fortune, but he died in winter. And in his last words, he said ‘It is not suitable to return hometown. Stay still and soon the answer appears.’ So she didn’t sent the remains of her master back to hometown. Now she lives in the Muny yard.” Lady King said: “ Why not pick her up?” Filial Piety Forest's Wife answered: “ If so, she would say: ‘The noble family always overwhelm people with their power, I don’t want to go.’”

“Dear cousin, do make me another sachet tomorrow.” “We’ll have to see how I feel.” They went together then to Lady Wang’s quarters where they happened to find Baochai. Everyone was in a state of great excitement, as the twelve young actresses bought by Jia Qiang in Suzhou had just arrived, together with the instructors he had hired and the costumes for the operas they would perform. Aunt Xue had moved to quiet, secluded quarters in the northeast part of the grounds, and Pear Fragrance Court had been made ready for the rehearsals. Some family maids who had once trained as opera-singers themselves but were now hoary dames were sent to look after the little actresses, while Jia Qiang was put in charge of their daily expenses and the provision of everything they required. Just at this time, Lin Zhixiao’s wife came to report, “The twenty-four little nuns---twelve Buddhist and twelve Taoist---whom I selected and purchased have now arrived, and their twenty-four new habits are ready. There’s another girl, too, who had entered holy orders without shaving her head. She comes from a Suzhou family of scholars and officials. She was delicate as a child, and although they bought many substitute novices for her it was no use---her health didn’t improve until she joined the Buddhist order herself. That’s how she became a lay sister. She’s eighteen this year and her name in religion is Miaoyu. Her parents are dead now and she only has two old nurses and one maid to look after her. She’s widely read and well-versed in the sutras, besides being very good-looking. She came to the capital last year, having heard there were relics of Guanyin here and canons inscribed on pattra leaves. She’s been living in the Sakyamuni Convent outside the West Gate. Her tutor was an excellent diviner, but she passed away last winter. Miaoyu had meant to escort the coffin back to her native place; but as her tutor lay dying she told the girl not to go back home but to wait quietly where she was for something fortune had in store for her. So， she didn’t accompany the coffin back.” “In that case, why not ask her here?” put in Lady Wang. “She’d refuse,” objected Lin Zhixiao’s wife. “She’d be afraid of being looked down on in a noble household.”----[[User:Yi Mingxia|Yi Mingxia]] ([[User talk:Yi Mingxia|talk]])

=Yì Míngxiá 易明霞=
王夫人
道：“他既是宦家小姐，自然要傲些，就下个请帖请他何妨？”林之孝家的答应着
出去，叫书启相公写个请帖去请妙玉，次日遣人备车轿去接。不知后来如何，且
听下回分解。

◎第十八回皇恩重元妃省父母天伦乐宝玉呈才藻

话说被时有人回，工程上等着糊东西的纱绫，请凤姐去开库拿纱绫；又有人
来回，请凤姐开库收金银器皿。王夫人并上房丫鬟等皆不得空闲。宝钗说：
“咱们别在这里碍手碍脚。”说着，同宝玉等往迎春房中来。

王夫人日日忙乱，直到十月里才全备了，监督都交清账目；各处古董文玩，
俱已陈设齐备；采办鸟雀，自仙鹤、鹿、兔以及鸡、鹅等，已买全，交于园中各处饲
养；贾蔷那边也演出二十出杂戏来；一班小尼姑、道姑也都学会念佛经咒。于是
贾政方略心安意畅，又请贾母等到园中，色色斟酌，点缀妥当，再无些微不当之
处。贾政才敢题本。本上之日，奉旨：“于明年正月十五日上元之日贵妃省
亲。”贾府奉了此旨，一发日夜不闲，连年亦不曾好生过的。

转眼元宵在迩，自正月初八，就有太监出来，先看方向：何处更衣，何处燕
坐，何处受礼，何处开宴，何处退息。又有巡察地方总理关防太监，带了许多小
太监来各处关防，挡围幕；指示贾宅人员何处出人，何处进膳，何处启事，种种仪
注。
“A young lady from an official family is bound to be rather proud,” agreed Lady King. “Why not send her a written invitation?” Obedience Forest’s wife agreed and left. One of the secretaries was instructed to make out an invitation, and the following days servants were senet with a carriage and leave that till later.
Chapter 18
Unit Spring Visits Her Parents on the Feast of Lanterns
Mascara Jade Helps Precious Jade by Passing Him a Poem
A servant came just then to request Sister Phoenix to open the storeroom and issue the gauze and silk needed by the workmen fore screens. Another asked her to store away the gold and silver utensils. Meanwhile Lady King and her maids were busy too. So Precious Jade suggested, “Let’s not stay here where we’re only in the way. Let’s go and find Seeking-spring.” She took Precious Jade and Mascara Jade to the rooms of Spring Pleasure and others to while away the time. For Lady King and her helpers, the days passed in a flurry of preparations until, towards the end of the tenth month, all was ready. The stewards had handed in their accounts: antiques and precious objects had been set out; the pleasure grounds were well-stocked with cranes, peacocks, deer, rabbits, chicken and geese to be reared in appropriate places; Wall Merchant had twenty operas ready; and the little Buddhist and Taoist nuns had memorized various sutras and incantations. The Policy Merchant, able at last to breathe more freely, invited the Lady Dowager to make a final inspection of the Garden and see that all was in order with nothing overlooked. This done, he chose an auspicious date and wrote a memorial, and the very same day that it was presented the Son of Heaven permitted to visit her parents for the Feast of Lanterns on the fifteenth of the first month the following year.
This threw the whole household into such a commotion that, hard at work day and night, they scarcely had time to celebrate the New Year. In a twinkling the Feast of Lanterns would arrive. On the eighth of the first month eunuchs came from the Palace to inspect the general layout of the Garden and the apartment where the Imperial consort would change her clothes, sit with her family, receive their homage, feast them and retire to rest. The eunuch in charge of security also posted many younger eunuchs as guards by the screened and curtained to the retiring rooms. Detailed instructions were given to all members of the household as to where they should withdraw, where they should kneel, serve food or make announcements—all the exact etiquette to be observed.

“A young lady from an official family is bound to be rather proud,” agreed Lady King. “Why not send her a written invitation?” Obedience Forest’s wife agreed and left. One of the secretaries was instructed to make out an invitation, and the following days servants were senet with a carriage and sedan-chair to fetch Wonderful Jade. As to what followed, we can leave that till later.

Chapter 18 Unit Spring Visits Her Parents on the Feast of Lanterns Mascara Jade Helps Precious Jade by Passing Him a Poem
A servant came just then to request Sister Phoenix to open the storeroom and issue the gauze and silk needed by the workmen fore screens. Another asked her to store away the gold and silver utensils. Meanwhile Lady King and her maids were busy too. So Precious Hairpin Marshgrass suggested, “Let’s not stay here where we’re only in the way. Let’s go and find Seeking-spring.” Then she took Precious Jade to the rooms of Spring Pleasure and others to while away the time. For Lady King and her helpers, the days passed in a flurry of preparations until, towards the end of the tenth month, all was ready. The stewards had handed in their accounts: antiques and precious objects had been set out; the pleasure grounds were well-stocked with cranes, peacocks, deer, rabbits, chicken and geese to be reared in appropriate places; Wall Merchant had twenty operas ready; and the little Buddhist and Taoist nuns had memorized various sutras and incantations. The Policy Merchant, able at last to breathe more freely, invited the Lady Dowager to make a final inspection of the Garden and see that all was in order with nothing overlooked. This done, he chose an auspicious date and wrote a memorial, and the very same day that it was presented the Son of Heaven permitted to visit her parents for the Feast of Lanterns on the fifteenth of the first month the following year. This threw the whole household into such a commotion that, hard at work day and night, they scarcely had time to celebrate the New Year. In a twinkling the Feast of Lanterns would arrive. On the eighth of the first month eunuchs came from the Palace to inspect the general layout of the Garden and the apartment where the Imperial consort would change her clothes, sit with her family, receive their homage, feast them and retire to rest. The eunuch in charge of security also posted many younger eunuchs as guards by the screened and curtained to the retiring rooms. Detailed instructions were given to all members of the household as to where they should withdraw, where they should kneel, serve food or make announcements—all the exact etiquette to be observed.--[[User:Yuan Jing|Yuan Jing]] ([[User talk:Yuan Jing|talk]]) 23:22, 25 May 2021 (UTC)

=Yuán Jìng 袁静=
外面又有工部官员并五城兵马司打扫街道，撵逐闲人。贾赦等监督匠人扎
花灯烟火之类，至十四日，俱已停妥。这一夜，上下通不曾睡。

至十五日五鼓，自贾母等有爵者，俱各按品大妆。大观园内帐舞蟠龙，帘
飞彩凤，金银焕彩，珠宝生辉，鼎焚百合之香，瓶插长春之蕊，静悄悄无一人咳
嗽。贾赦等在西街门外，贾母等在荣府大门外。街头巷口，用围幕挡严。正等
的不耐烦，忽见一个太监骑匹马来了，贾政接着，问其消息。太监云：“早多着
呢！未初用晚膳，未正还到宝灵宫拜佛，酉初进大明宫领宴看灯方请旨，只怕戌
初才起身呢。”凤姐听了道：“既这样，老太太与太太且请回房，等到了时候，再来
也未为晚。”于是贾母等且自便去了。园中赖凤姐照料。执事人等，带领太监
们去吃酒饭，一面传人挑进蜡烛，各处点起灯来。

忽听外面跑马之声不一，有十来个太监，喘吁吁跑来拍手儿。这些太监都
会意，知道是来了，各按方向站立。贾赦领合族子弟在西街门外，贾母领合族女
眷在大门外迎接，半日静悄悄的。忽见两个太监骑马缓缓而来，至西街门下了
马，将马赶出围幕之外，便面西站立。半日又是一对，亦是如此。少时便来了十
来对，方闻隐隐鼓乐之声，一对对龙旌凤翣，雉羽宫扇，又有销金提炉，焚着御
香；然后一把曲柄七凤金黄伞过来，便是冠袍带履。

There were officers of the Ministry of Works and the Chief of the Metropolitan Police sweeping and clearing the streets. Jia she supervised craftsmen making festive lanterns and fireworks. By fourteen, everything was ready. And no one slept at that night. Next day all those with official ranks from Lady Jia put on full ceremonial dresses since 3. am. In the garden, hangings and screens were everywhere, which were embroidered with dangcing dragons and flying phoneix. Gold and silver glittered; pearls and precious stones shimmered. Richly blended incense burnt in the bronze tripods, and fresh flowers filled the vases, silent without any cough.Jia She and the other men waited outside in the west street entrance, while the Lady Dowager and the women waited outside the main gate. The ends of the street and the alleys leading to it all had been screened off. They were growing patiently when a eunuch approached on a big horse. The Lady Dowager welcomed him in and asked for news. “It will be a long time yet,” the eunuch told her. “She is to dine at one, then pray to Buddha in the Palace of the Precious Spirit at half past two, and at five go to feast in the Palace of Great Splendour and look at the display of lanterns before asking leave from the Emperor. She can hardly set out until seven.” Phoenix King said," Such being the case, Lady Dowager and Lady Wang should go inside to rest and come back later." So the Lady Dowager and others retired, leaving Xifeng in charge. She ordered the stewards to invite the eunuchs for treats. Then she had loads of candles carried in for all the lanterns. It was when the candles was lit that a clatter of hooves was heard in the street. The next moment ten or more eunuchs came, clapping their hands as they ran. At this signal the other eunuchs said, “Her Highness is coming!” They all rushed to their posts. Jia She and the young men of the family stood by the entrance of the west street, the Lady Dowager and the women in front of the main gate. It was silent for a long time. Then two eunuchs wearing scarlet uniforms rode slowly up to the entrance of the west street. Dismounting, they led their horses behind the screens, then stood to attention, turning towards the west. After some time another pair of eunuchs appeared, then another, until there were ten pairs lined up and soft music could be heard in the distance. Several pairs of eunuchs carryied dragon banners, others with phoenix fans, pheasant plumes and ceremonial insignia, as well as gold censers burning Imperial incense. Next came a curved-handled yellow umbrella on which were embroidered seven phoenixes, and under this a head-dress, robe, girdle and slippers. After that deacon eunuchs came, bearing a rosary, embroidered handkerchiefs, a rinse-bowl, fly-whisks and the like.--[[User:Yuan Jing|Yuan Jing]] ([[User talk:Yuan Jing|talk]]) 23:48, 13 May 2021 (UTC)

There were officers of the Ministry of Works and the Chief of the Metropolitan Police sweeping and clearing the streets outside. Pardon Merchant supervised craftsmen making festive lanterns and fireworks. By fourteen, everything was ready. And no one slept at that night. Next day all those with official ranks from Lady Merchant put on full ceremonial dresses since 3. am. In the garden, hangings and screens were everywhere, which were embroidered with dangcing dragons and flying phoneix. Gold and silver glittered; pearls and precious stones shimmered. Richly blended incense burnt in the bronze tripods, and fresh flowers filled the vases, silent without any cough. She and the other men waited outside in the west street entrance, while the Lady Dowager and the women waited outside the main gate. The ends of the street and the alleys leading to it all had been screened off. They were growing patiently when a eunuch approached on a big horse. The Lady Dowager welcomed him in and asked for news. “It will be a long time yet,” the eunuch told her. “She is to dine at one, then pray to Buddha in the Palace of the Precious Spirit at half past two, and at five go to feast in the Palace of Great Splendour and look at the display of lanterns before asking leave from the Emperor. She can hardly set out until seven.” Phoenix King said," Such being the case, Lady Dowager and Lady Wang should go inside to rest and come back later." So the Lady Dowager and others retired, leaving Xifeng in charge. She ordered the stewards to invite the eunuchs for treats. Then she had loads of candles carried in for all the lanterns. It was when the candles was lit that a clatter of hooves was heard in the street. The next moment ten or more eunuchs came, clapping their hands as they ran. At this signal the other eunuchs said, “Her Highness is coming!” They all rushed to their posts. Pardon Merchant and the young men of the family stood by the entrance of the west street, the Lady Dowager and the women in front of the main gate. It was silent for a long time. Then two eunuchs wearing scarlet uniforms rode slowly up to the entrance of the west street. Dismounting, they led their horses behind the screens, then stood to attention, turning towards the west. After some time another pair of eunuchs appeared, then another, until there were ten pairs lined up and soft music could be heard in the distance. Several pairs of eunuchs carryied dragon banners, others with phoenix fans, pheasant plumes and ceremonial insignia, as well as gold censers burning Imperial incense. Next came a curved-handled yellow umbrella on which were embroidered seven phoenixes, and under this a head-dress, robe, girdle and slippers. After that deacon eunuchs came, bearing a rosary, embroidered handkerchiefs, a rinse-bowl, fly-whisks and the like--[[User:Zhao Ke|Zhao Ke]] ([[User talk:Zhao Ke|talk]]) 03:13, 22 May 2021 (UTC)

=Zhào Kē 赵轲 Mr.=
又有执事太监捧着香巾、绣
帕、漱盂、拂尘等物。一队队过完，后面方是八个太监抬着一顶金顶金黄绣凤銮
舆，缓缓行来。贾母等连忙跪下，早有太监过来，扶起贾母等，那銮舆抬入大门、
仪门往东一所院落门前，有太监跪请下舆更衣。于是抬舆入门，太监散去，只有
昭容、彩嫔等引元春下舆。只见苑内各色花灯熌灼，皆系纱绫扎成，精致非常。
上面有一灯匾，写着“体仁沐德”四个字，元春入室，更衣出，复上舆进园。只
见园中香烟缭绕，花影缤纷，处处灯光相映，时时细乐声喧，说不尽这太平景象，
富贵风流。

却说贾妃在轿内看了此园内外光景，因点头叹道：“太奢华过费了！”忽又
见太监跪请登舟，贾妃下舆登舟，只见清流一带，势若游龙，两边石栏上，皆系水
晶玻璃各色风灯，点的如银光雪浪；上面柳杏诸树，虽无花叶，却用各色绸绫纸
绢及通草为花，粘于枝上，每一株悬灯万盏；更兼池中荷荇凫鹭之属，亦皆系螺
蚌羽毛做就的，诸灯上下争辉，真是玻璃世界，珠宝乾坤。船上又有各种盆景
灯，珠帘绣幕，桂楫兰桡，自不必说。已而入一石港，港上一面匾灯，明现着“蓼
汀花溆”四字。

看官听说：这“蓼汀花溆”四字及“有凤来仪”等字，皆系上回贾政偶试宝玉
之才，何至便认真用了？想贾府世代诗书，自有一二名手题咏，岂似暴发之家，
竟以小儿语搪塞了事呢？

There are also deacon eunuchs holding incense towels, embroidered handkerchiefs, gargle pots, feather dusts and other things. After passing by team by team, the back side is eight eunuchs carrying a golden yellow embroidery phoenix imperial carriage, slowly get closer.(After these deacon eunuchs passing by group by group,there came another eight eunuchs in the back side...--[[User:Bao Qinwen|Bao Qinwen]] ([[User talk:Bao Qinwen|talk]]) 15:20, 8 June 2021 (UTC)) Grandma Merchant hurriedly knelt down, and early eunuchs came to help Grandma Merchant. The imperial carriage was carried into the gate, and along with the gate to the east of a courtyard in front of the eunuchs kneeling. They asked Princess Merchant and her servants got off and changed clothes with their help. So carrying the imperial carriage in, eunuchs were dismissed, and only Braw Appearance and Colourful Concubine helped First Spring get off. In the garden, all kinds of lanterns were like burning, and all were made of gauze satin which were exquisite. There was a light plaque above, written four words, “body benevolence and covered with morality” . First Spring getting into the room, changed clothes, and then went into the park. She saw the garden wreathed by fragrant smoke, with colorful shadows, lights everywhere, fine music loud. This was a peaceful scene with wealth and admiration, which should be difficult to be described.

But Princess Merchant looked at the scene outside the carriage. She nodded and sighed, "It is too luxurious and expensive!" Suddenly eunuchs kneeling to ask for boats, Princess Merchant then got on the boat. The clear stream lay a line, like a wandering dragon and on both sides of the stone fence, there were all crystal glass colorful wind lamps, such as silver light snow waves; The willow apricot trees above, though they have no flowers and leaves, were glued to the branches with colorful silk and silk paper and grass. Each tree was hung with thousands of lights. And the floating heart heron in the pool, were also made of snail feathers, the lights up and down competing, was really a world of glass, jewelry. There were also various bonsai lamps, beaded curtains and embroidered curtains, beautiful boats and orchards, which were needless to talk about. In the past, they had entered a stone port. There was a board lamp on the port, and the words "Smartweed Amifostine Flower Waterside" were visible.

The magistrate was told that the word "Smartweed Amifostine Flower Waterside" and the word "A Phoenix Comes with Grace to Rest" were both words that Master Merchant had tried Precious Jade’s talent last time. Why had it been using it seriously? Thinking about Merchant Mansion’s generation(generations--[[User:Bao Qinwen|Bao Qinwen]] ([[User talk:Bao Qinwen|talk]]) 15:20, 8 June 2021 (UTC)) of poetry, of course it should keep some perfect poem(poems--[[User:Bao Qinwen|Bao Qinwen]] ([[User talk:Bao Qinwen|talk]]) 15:20, 8 June 2021 (UTC)). For Merchant Mansion, instead of a new money, why it had been prevaricated with some innocent words?--[[User:Zhao Ke|Zhao Ke]] ([[User talk:Zhao Ke|talk]]) 14:03, 7 May 2021 (UTC)

=Bào Qìnwén 鲍沁雯=
只固当日这贾妃未入宫时，自幼亦系贾母教养。后来
添了宝玉，贾妃乃长姊，宝玉为幼弟，贾妃念母午将迈，始得此弟，是以独爱怜
之。且同侍贾母，刻未相离。那宝玉未入学之先，三四岁时，已得贾妃口传教授
了几本书，识了数千字在腹中。虽为姊弟，有如母子。自入宫后，时时带信出来
与父兄说：“千万好生扶养，不严不能成器；过严恐生不虞，且致祖母之忧。”眷念
之心，刻刻不忘。前日贾政闻塾师赞他尽有才情，故于游园对聊一试之，虽非名
公大笔，却是本家风味；且使贾妃见之，知爱弟所为，亦不负其平日切望之意。
因此故将宝玉所题用了。那日未题完之处，后来又补题了许多。

且说贾妃看了四字，笑道：“‘花溆’二字便好，何必‘蓼汀’？”侍坐太监听
了，忙下舟登岸，飞传与贾政，贾政即刻换了。彼时舟临内岸，去舟上舆，便见琳
宫绰约，桂殿巍峨，石牌坊上“天仙宝境”四大字，贾妃命换了“省亲别墅”四字。
于是进入行宫，只见庭燎绕空，香屑布地，火树琪花，金窗玉槛。说不尽帘卷虾
须，毯铺鱼獭，鼎飘麝脑之香，屏列雉尾之扇。真是：

金门玉户神仙府，桂殿兰宫妃子家。
贾妃乃问：“此殿何无匾额？”随侍太监跪启道：“此系正殿，外臣未敢擅拟。”贾
妃点头不语。礼仪太监请升座受礼，两阶乐起。
The Imperial Consort, before she entered the Palace, had been brought up from childhood by the Lady Dowager. And after Precious Jade was born, as Princess Merchant was his elder sister and Precious Jade her younger brother, bearing in mind that their mother had given birth to him late in life, she loved him more than her other brothers and lavished all her care on him. They both stayed with their grandmother and were inseparable. Even before Precious Jade started school, when he was hardly four years old, she taught him to recite several texts and to recognize several thousand characters. she was more like a mother to him than an elder sister. After she entered the Palace she often wrote letters home reminding her parents to educate him well, for unless strictly disciplined he would not amount to much, but if treated too sternly he might also give them cause for anxiety. Her loving concern for him had never ceased. Treasure Merchant, earlier on, had scarcely believed the tutor’s report that Precious Jade had a flair for literary composition. As the Garden happened then to be ready for inspection, he had called on his son for inscriptions in order to test him. And although Precious Jade’s childish efforts were far from inspired, at least they were passable. The family could easily enough have enlisted the help of famous scholars; but it seemed to them that a special interest attached to names chosen by a member of the house. Besides, when the Imperial Consort learned that these were the work of her beloved younger brother, she would feel that he had not fallen short of her hopes. For these reasons Precious Jade’s inscriptions were adopted. Not all had been chosen that day; some he supplied later. But enough of this. When the Imperial Consort saw this name, she commented with a smile: "Just Flowery Harbor" would do. Why Smart-weed Bank" too?" As soon as the eunuch in attendance heard this, he hastily disembarked and went ashore to report to Master Merchant, who immediately had the alteration made. Meanwhile the boat had reached the further shore and again Princess Merchant mounted her palanquin. Before her now there towered the beautiful hall of an imposing palace. The marble archway in front of it bore the inscription: Precious Realm for the Immortal." At once she ordered this to be changed to House of Reunion" As she entered this temporary palace, she saw torches in the courtyard flaring to the sky, powdered incense strewing the ground, flaming trees, jasper flowers, gilded windows and jade balustrades, to say nothing of screens as fine as the shrimp’ s antennae, carpets of otter-skin, musk burning in tripods, and fans made from pheasant plumage. Truly this was: An abode with golden gates and jade doors fit for immortals, its cassia and orchid chambers a worthy setting for the Imperial Consort. After glancing around she asked, "Why has this place no name?" The eunuch attendant fell on his knees. "Because this is the main palace," he replied," no subject outside the Court dared suggest a name.” The eunuch attendant fell on his knees. Because this is the main palace," he replied, "no subject outside the Court dared suggest a name.” The Imperial Consort nodded and said nothing. Another eunuch, the Master of Ceremonies, knelt and begged her to sit in a chair of state to receive the obeisances of her family. On both sides of the steps music was played as two eunuchs ushered in.

The Imperial Consort, before she entered the Palace, had been brought up from childhood by the Grandma Merchant. And after Precious Jade was born, as Princess Merchant was his elder sister and Precious Jade her younger brother, bearing in mind that their mother had given birth to him late in life, she loved him more than her other brothers and lavished all her care on him. They both stayed with their grandmother and were inseparable. Even before Precious Jade started school, when he was hardly four years old, she taught him to recite several texts and to recognize several thousand characters. she was more like a mother to him than an elder sister. After she entered the Palace she often wrote letters home reminding her parents to educate him well, for unless strictly disciplined he would not amount to much, but if treated too sternly he might also give them cause for anxiety. Her loving concern for him had never ceased. Master Merchant, earlier on, had scarcely believed the tutor’s report that Precious Jade had a flair for literary composition. As the Garden happened then to be ready for inspection, he had called on his son for inscriptions in order to test him. And although Precious Jade’s childish efforts were far from inspired, at least they were passable. The family could easily enough have enlisted the help of famous scholars; but it seemed to them that a special interest attached to names chosen by a member of the house. Besides, when the Imperial Consort learned that these were the work of her beloved younger brother, she would feel that he had not fallen short of her hopes. For these reasons Precious Jade’s inscriptions were adopted. Not all had been chosen that day; some he supplied later. But enough of this. When the Imperial Consort saw this name, she commented with a smile: "Just Flowery Harbor" would do. Why Smart-weed Bank" too?" As soon as the eunuch in attendance heard this, he hastily disembarked and went ashore to report to Master Merchant, who immediately had the alteration made. Meanwhile the boat had reached the further shore and again Princess Merchant mounted her palanquin. Before her now there towered the beautiful hall of an imposing palace. The marble archway in front of it bore the inscription: Precious Realm for the Immortal." At once she ordered this to be changed to House of Reunion" As she entered this temporary palace, she saw torches in the courtyard flaring to the sky, powdered incense strewing the ground, flaming trees, jasper flowers, gilded windows and jade balustrades, to say nothing of screens as fine as the shrimp’ s antennae, carpets of otter-skin, musk burning in tripods, and fans made from pheasant plumage. Truly this was: An abode with golden gates and jade doors fit for immortals, its cassia and orchid chambers a worthy setting for the Imperial Consort. After glancing around she asked, "Why has this place no name?" The eunuch attendant fell on his knees. "Because this is the main palace," he replied," no subject outside the Court dared suggest a name.” The Imperial Consort nodded and said nothing. Another eunuch, the Master of Ceremonies, knelt and begged her to sit in a chair of state to receive the obeisances of her family. On both sides of the steps music was played as two eunuchs ushered in.--[[User:Chen Keru|Chen Keru]] ([[User talk:Chen Keru|talk]]) 05:47, 7 June 2021 (UTC)

=Chén Kērǔ 陈柯汝=
二太监引贾赦贾政等于月台下
排班上殿，昭容传谕日：“免。”乃退出。又引荣国太君及女眷等自东阶升月台
上排班，昭容再谕口：“免。”于是亦退。

茶三献，贾妃降座，乐止；退入侧室更衣，方备省亲车驾出园。至贾母正室，
欲行家礼，贾母等俱跪止之。贾妃垂沮，彼此上前厮见，一手挽贾母，一手挽王
夫人，三个人满心皆有许多话，俱说不出，只是呜咽对泣而已。邢夫人、李纨、王
熙凤、迎春、探春、惜春等，俱在旁垂泪无言。半日，贾妃方忍悲强笑，安慰贾母
王夫人道：“当日既送我到那不得见人的去处，好容易今日回家，娘儿们一会不
说不笑，反到哭个不了，一会子我去了，又不知多早晚才能一见！”说到这句，不
禁又哽咽起来。邢夫人忙上来劝解。贾母等让贾妃归坐，又逐次一一见过，又
不免哭泣一番。然后东西两府执事人等在外厅行礼。其媳妇丫鬟行礼毕。贾
妃叹道：“许多亲眷，可惜都不能见面。”王夫人启道：“现有外亲薛王氏及宝钗
黛玉在外候旨。外誊无职，不敢擅入。”贾妃命请来相见。一时薛姨妈等进来，
欲行国礼，命免过，上前各叙阔别。又有贾妃原带进宫的丫鬟抱琴等叩见，贾母
连忙扶起，命人别室款待。执事太监及彩嫔昭容各侍从人等，宁府及贾赦那宅
两处自有人款待，只留三四十小太监答应。

Two eunuchs ushered Pardon Merchant and Master Merchant to range below the dais. Pardon Merchant and Master Merchant were waiting for visiting Imperial Consort, but were exempted from the ceremony and they withdrew. And then the Lady Dowager of the Rong Mansion and the female relatives were led up the east flight of steps to the dais, but they too were exempted from the ceremony and shown out. After tea had been served three times, First Spring Merchant sat down and music stopped. She dressed up herself in a side chamber and ordered carriages for home to be prepared; and she set up. She arrived at the Lady Dowager’s reception room to pay her respects as a grand-daughter of the house, but before she could do so her grandmother and the other knelt to prevent her. She was crying when she was approaching Lady Dowager and Lady King. She linked her arms with the two. They could not speak out one word but sob though they had a lot to share. Others were sobbing silently: Lady City, Silk Plum, Splendid Phoenix King, Spring-cherish Merchant, Spring Pleasure Merchant, Seeking-Spring Merchant and so on. Only after a long time could First Spring Merchant refrain from soreness and squeeze out a smile. Then she comforted Lady King and Lady Dowager: “After all the trouble, I managed to go back home since you sent me to the untoward place. You ladies did not welcome me with smiles, but non-stop crying. I don’t know when we will meet next time after my leaving this time.” She whimpered. Lady City consoled her in a hurry and Lady Dowager persuaded her to sit down. Then, she changed courtesies with each in turn with sobbing. Next the stewards and attendants of both mansions paid their respects outside the door, and so did their wives and the maids. First Spring Merchant sighed: “ What a pity that I can’t see many other family members.” Lady City started: “Aunt Marshgrass, Precious Hairpin Marshgrass, and Mascara Jade Forest are waiting outside, not being members of the Jia family and having no official status.” First Spring Merchant(Imperial Concubine Merchant) asked them to come in. Aunt Marshgrass, as well as others entered and wanted to pay homage according to Palace etiquette but were exempted by First Spring Merchant. And then they chatted. Musical Instrument Carrier, Imperial Concubine Merchant’s attendant who followed her to the palace kowtowed, and was lifted up by Lady Dowager quickly, who ordered another room to treat her well. Deacon eunuchs and ladies-in-waiting were entertained by members of the staff of both mansions, leaving only three or four young eunuchs in attendance.

Two eunuchs ushered Pardon Merchant and Master Merchant to range under the stairs. Pardon Merchant and Master Merchant were waiting for visiting Imperial Consort exempted from the ceremony and they withdrew. And then the Grandma Merchant of the Rong Mansion and the female relatives were led up the east flight of steps to the dais, and they too were exempted from the ceremony and shown out.

After tea had been served three times, First Spring Merchant sat down with the music stopped. She dressed up herself in a side chamber and ordered the servants to prepare carriages for home. She arrived at Grandma Merchant’s reception room to pay her respects as a grand-daughter of the house, but before she could do so her grandmother and other relatives all knelt to prevent her action. She was crying when she was getting closer to Grandma Merchant and Lady King. She linked her arms with the two. They could not speak out one word but sobbing though they had a lot to share. Others were sobbing silently: Lady City, Silk Plum, Splendid Phoenix King, Cherishing Spring Merchant, Spring Pleasure Merchant, Seeking-Spring Merchant and so on. Only after a long time could First Spring Merchant refrain from soreness and squeezed out a smile. Then she comforted Lady King and Grandma Merchant: “After all the trouble, I’ve managed to go back home since you sent me to the untoward place. You ladies did not welcome me with smiles, but non-stop crying. I don’t know when we will meet next time after my leaving this time.” She whimpered. Lady City consoled her in a hurry and Grandma Merchant persuaded her to sit down. Then, she changed courtesies with each in turn with sobbing. Next the stewards and attendants of both mansions paid their respects outside the door, and so did their wives and the maids. First Spring Merchant sighed: “ What a pity that I can’t see many other family members.” Lady King started: “Aunt Marshgrass, Precious Hairpin Marshgrass, and Mascara Jade Forest are waiting outside, not being members of the Jia family and having no official status.” First Spring Merchant (Imperial Concubine Merchant) asked them to come in. Aunt Marshgrass, as well as others entered and wanted to pay homage according to Palace etiquette but were exempted by First Spring Merchant. And then they chatted. Musical Instrument Carrier, Imperial Concubine Merchant’s attendant who followed her to the palace kowtowed, and was lifted up by Grandma Merchant quickly, who ordered another room to treat her well. Deacon eunuchs and ladies-in-waiting were entertained by members of the staff of both mansions, leaving only thirty or forty young eunuchs in attendance.--[[User:Dai Muyu|Dai Muyu]] ([[User talk:Dai Muyu|talk]]) 14:25, 6 June 2021 (UTC)

=Dài Mùyǔ 戴沐雨=
母女姊妹，叙些久别情景，及家务私
情。

又有贾政至帘外问安，贾妃于内行参等事。又向其父说道：“田舍之家，齑
盐布帛，得遂天伦之乐；今虽富贵，骨肉分离，终无意趣。”贾政亦含泪启道：“臣
草芥寒门，鸠群鸦属之中，岂意得征风鸾之瑞。今贵人上锡天恩，下昭祖德，此
皆山川日月之精奇、祖宗之远德钟于一人，幸及政夫妇。且今上体天地生生之
大德，垂古今未有之旷恩，虽肝脑涂地，岂能报效于万一！惟朝乾夕惕，忠于厥
职。伏愿我君万岁千秋，乃天下苍生之福也。贵妃切勿以政夫妇残年为念，更
祈自加珍爱，惟勤慎肃恭以侍上，庶不负上眷顾隆恩也。”贾妃亦嘱以“国事宜
勤，暇时保养，切勿记念。”贾政又启：“园中所有亭台轩馆，皆系宝玉所题；如果
有一二可寓目者，请即赐名为幸。”元妃听了宝玉能题，便含笑说道：“果进益
了。”贾政退出。元妃因问：“宝玉因何不见？”贾母乃启道：“无职外男，不敢擅
入。”元妃命引进来。小太监引宝玉进来，先行国礼毕，命他近前，携手揽于怀
内，又抚其头颈笑道：“比先长了好些……”一语未终，泪如雨下。

尤氏凤姐等上来启道：“筵宴齐备，请贵妃游幸。”元妃起身，命宝玉导引，
遂同诸人步至园门前。早见灯光之中，诸般罗列，进园先从“有凤来仪”、

There were lots of domestic affairs during the time of separation that her mom and sisters wanted to share with her.

Master Merchant also paid his respect standing outside the curtain, Concubine Merchant asked for the other things inside. Then she talked to her father: "In peasant family, they can still be together to enjoy the family time with crude salt and plain clothes; although we are wealthy now, we have to tolerate the situation of being separated, lacking union and entertainment." Filled with tears, Master Merchant replied: "I was born poorly and in the class of poultry in the society, never imagining our fortune of accepting the appreciation of the Emperor. At present you received the favor of god and inherited the will of ancestors, converging the essence of the nature and the morality of forefathers to one person, which is absolutely our pleasure. Additionally, the Emperor sympathized with sky and earth understandingly and enacted unprecedented gifts toward us. We can return for little compared with what he has done though throwing our liver and brain to the ground. What we could do is to be responsible for our position and hard-working day and night. That our Emperor could live for thousands of years would bring benefits to the whole society, which is our mere hope. Concubine should cherish yourself and be careful to serve the Emperor rather than worry about me and my wife due to our age, and only does that can you show respect to the gift of the Emperor." Concubine Merchant then enjoined that "When working, industrious to it; when resting, enjoy it. Don't miss me." Master Merchant responded: "The pavilions, terraces and halls in the garden were all entitled by Precious Jade Merchant. If you have witnessed one or two of them, please award a name for it as our pleasure." Hearing about Precious Jade's inscription, Concubine Yuan smiled: "It seems that he did make progress." Master Merchant exited. Then, Concubine Yuan asked: "Why does Precious Jade not here?" Grandma Merchant answered: "As a male without any official ranking, he dares not to come in." Concubine Yuan then asked someone to lead him in. The eunuch guided Precious Jade and after giving a salute required by the country, Concubine ordered him to come close, then grasping his hands and hugging him in the arms. At the time, Concubine tapped his head and smiled: "Growing much taller than before..." Having not finished the words, the tears came out of the eyes like the pouring rain.

Sister Phoenix and Madam Outstanding walked forward and reported: "The feast has already prepared, and we are pleased to invite you to come to enjoy it." Concubine Yuan stood up and asked Precious Jade to lead her, and then followed other people walking to the gateway.--[[User:Dai Muyu|Dai Muyu]] ([[User talk:Dai Muyu|talk]]) 08:46, 8 June 2021 (UTC)

She had been separated from her mother and sister for such a long time that she had a lot to share with them. Master Merchant also paid his respect standing outside the curtain at this time, Concubine Merchant asked for the other things inside. Then she talked to her father with tears,"In peasant family, they can still be together to enjoy the family time with crude salt and plain clothes; although we are wealthy now, we have to tolerate the situation of being separated, lacking union and entertainment." With tears too Master Merchant replied, "I was born poorly and in the class of poultry in the society, never imagining our fortune of accepting the appreciation of the Emperor. At present you received the favor of god and inherited the will of ancestors, converging the essence of the nature and the morality of forefathers to one person, which is absolutely our pleasure. Additionally, the Emperor sympathized with sky and earth understandingly and enacted unprecedented gifts toward us. We can return for little compared with what he has done though throwing our liver and brain to the ground. What we could do is to be responsible for our position and hard-working day and night. That our Emperor could live for thousands of years would bring benefits to the whole society, which is our mere hope. Concubine should cherish yourself and be careful to serve the Emperor rather than worry about me and my wife due to our age, and only does that can you show respect to the gift of the Emperor." Concubine Merchant then enjoined that "When working, industrious to it; when resting, enjoy it. Don't miss me." Master Merchant responded, "The pavilions, terraces and halls in the garden were all entitled by Precious Jade . If you have find one or two of the buildings not too tame, please award a name for it as our pleasure." Hearing about Precious Jade's inscription, Concubine Yuan smiled, "It seems that he does make progress." Master Merchant withdrew. Then, Concubine Yuan asked, "Why does Precious Jade not here?" Grandma Merchant answered, "As a male without any official rank, he dares not to come in." Concubine Yuan then asked someone to lead him in. The eunuch guided Precious Jade and after giving a salute required by the country, Concubine ordered him to come close, then grasping his hands and hugging him in the arms. At the time, Concubine tapped his head and smiled: "Growing much taller than before..." Having not finished the words, the tears came out of the eyes like the pouring rain.

Sister Phoenix and Madam Outstanding walked forward and announced, "The feast is ready, and we are pleased to invite you to come to enjoy it." Concubine Yuan stood up and asked Precious Jade to lead her. Followed by others she walked to the gateway, where the sights were lit up by lanterns.--[[User:Deng Dan1|Deng Dan1]] ([[User talk:Deng Dan1|talk]]) 06:18, 9 June 2021 (UTC)

=Dèng Dān 邓丹=
“红香
绿玉”、“杏帘在望”、“蘅芷清芬”等处，登楼步阁，涉水缘山，眺览徘徊。一处处
铺陈不一，一桩桩点缀新奇。贾妃极加奖赞，又劝：“以后不可太奢了，此皆过
分。”既而来至正殿，谕免礼归坐，大开筵宴，贾母等在下相陪，尤氏、李纨、凤姐
等捧羹把盏。

元妃乃命笔砚伺候，亲拂罗笺，择其喜者赐名。题其园之总名曰“大观
园”，正殿匾额云：“顾思思义”，对联云：
天地启宏慈，赤子苍生同感戴；古今垂旷典，九州万国被恩荣。
又改题：“有凤来仪”赐名“潇湘馆”，“红香绿玉”改作“怡红快绿”赐名“怡红
院”，“蘅芷清芬”赐名“蘅芜院”，“杏帘在望”赐名“浣葛山庄”；正楼曰“大观
楼”，东面飞楼曰“缀锦楼”，西面叙楼日“含芳阁”；更有“蓼风轩”、“藕香榭”、
“紫菱洲”、“荇叶渚”等名。又有四字匾额如“梨花春雨”、“桐剪秋风”、“获芦
夜雪”等名，不可胜纪。又命旧有匾联不可摘去。于是先题一绝句云：

衔山抱水建来精，多少工夫筑始成。夭上人间诸景备，芳园应锝“大
观”名。
写毕，向诸姊蛛笑道：“我素乏捷才，且不长于吟咏，姊妹辈素所深知；今夜聊以
塞责，不负斯景而已。异日少暇，必补撰‘大观园记’并‘省亲颂’等文，以记今
日之事。

Past “Where the Phoenix Alights,” “Crimson Fragrance and Green Jade,” “Approach to Apricot Tavern” and “Pure Scent of Alpinia and Iris” they strolled, mounting pavilions, crossing streams, climbing miniature hills and enjoying the view from various different points. All the buildings were distinctively furnished, and each corner had such fresh, unusual features that Yuanchun was lavish with her praise and approval. But she cautioned them: “You mustn’t be so extravagant in future. This is far too much!” When they reached the main reception palace she desired them to dispense with ceremony and take their seats. It was a sumptuous banquet. The Lady Dowager and the rest sat at tables on either side, while Madam You, Li Wan and Xifeng passed round dishes and poured the wine. Meanwhile Yuanchun asked for writing-brush and inkstone and with her own hand wrote names for the spots she liked best.
For the main reception palace she wrote the inscription:
Recalling Imperial Favour, Mindful of Duty. And the couplet:Compassion vast as the universe extends to old and young,
Grace unknown before honours every state and land.The pleasure grounds were named the Grand View Garden.“Where the Phoenix Alights” was renamed “Bamboo Lodge”.“Crimson Fragrance and Green Jade” was changed to “Happy Red and Delightful Green” and also called Happy Red Court. The name “Pure Scent of Alpinia and Iris” was altered to “Alpinia Park”. The “Approach to Apricot Tavern” became “Hemp Washing Cottage.” The main pavilion became “Grand View Pavilion”; Its eastern wing “Variegated Splendour Tower,” that on the west “Fragrant Tower.” Other names given were “Smartweed Breeze Cot”, “Lotus Fragrance Anchorage”, “Purple Caltrop Isle” and “Watercress Isle”. She composed a dozen or so other inscriptions too such as “Pear Blossom in Spring Rain”, “Plane Trees in Autumn Wind” and “Artemisia in Evening Snow”. The rest of the inscriptions cannot all be recorded here. The other former inscriptions at her order remained unaltered. Then the Imperial Consort wrote this verse: Enfolding hills and streams laid out with skill, what labor went to build this pleasure ground! For these, the finest sights of earth and heaven, Not fitter name than “Grand View” can be found. With a simile she showed this to the girls and said, “I have never had a ready wit or any skill in versifying, as all of you know, but tonight I had to try my hand at a verse in honor of these pleasure grounds. Some day when I have more time, I promise to write a Description of Grand View Garden and a panegyric called The Family Reunion to commemorate this occasion.--[[User:Deng Dan1|Deng Dan1]] ([[User talk:Deng Dan1|talk]]) 06:58, 19 May 2021 (UTC)

The pleasure places were named the Grand View Garden.“Where the Phoenix Alights” was renamed “Bamboo Lodge”.“Crimson Fragrance and Green Jade” was changed to “Happy Red and Delightful Green” and also called Happy Red Court. The name “Pure Scent of Alpinia and Iris” was altered to “Alpinia Park”. The “Approach to Apricot Tavern” became “Hemp Washing Cottage.” The main pavilion became “Grand View Pavilion”; Its eastern wing “Variegated Splendour Tower,” that on the west “Fragrant Tower.” Other names given were “Smartweed Breeze Cot”, “Lotus Fragrance Anchorage”, “Purple Caltrop Isle” and “Watercress Isle”. She composed a dozen or so other inscriptions too such as “Pear Blossom in Spring Rain”, “Plane Trees in Autumn Wind” and “Artemisia in Evening Snow”. The rest of the inscriptions cannot all be recorded here. The other former inscriptions at her order remained unaltered. Then the Imperial Consort wrote this verse: Enfolding hills and streams laid out with skill, what labor went to build this pleasure ground! For these, the finest sights of earth and heaven, Not fitter name than “Grand View” can be found out. --[[User:Ding Zhongxia|Ding Zhongxia]] ([[User talk:Ding Zhongxia|talk]]) 09:42, 2 June 2021 (UTC)Ding Zhongxia

=Dīng Zhòngxià 丁仲夏=
妹等亦各题一匾一诗，随意发挥，不可为我微才所缚。且知宝玉竟能
题咏，一发可喜。此中潇湘馆蘅芜苑二处，我所极爱；次之怡红院浣葛山庄，此
四大处，必得别有章句题咏方妙。前所题之联虽佳，如今再各赋五言律一首，使
我当面试过，方不负我自幼教授之苦心。”宝玉只得答应了，下来自去构思。

迎春、探春、惜春三人中，要算探春又出于姊妹之上，然自忖亦难与薛林争
衡，只得勉强随众塞责而已。李纨也勉强凑成一律。贾妃挨次看姊妹们的，写
道是：

旷性怡情(匾额)迎春

园成景物特精奇，奉命羞题额旷怡。谁信世间有此境，游来宁不畅神思？

万象争辉(匾额)探春

名园筑就势巍巍，奉命多惭学浅微。精妙一时言不尽，果然万物有光辉。

文章造化(匾额)惜春

山木横拖千里外，楼台高超五云中。园修日月光辉里，景夺文章造化功。

文采风流(匾额)李纨

秀水明山抱复回，风流文采胜蓬莱。绿裁歌扇迷芳草，红衬湘裙舞落梅。珠玉自应传盛世，神仙何幸下瑶台。名园一自邀游赏，未许凡人到此来。

Now I want each of you to write an inscription and a poem to go with it. Do your best, and don’t feel restricted by my lame attempt.
It was such a delightful surprise to me to find that Precious Jade can compose inscriptions and poems. The Bamboo Lodge and Alpinia Park are the places I like best, and after them Happy Red Court and Hemp Washing Cottage. We must have four poems specially written for these.
Although Precious Jade’s couplets composed earlier are charming, I want him now in my presence to write four lushi in five-character lines on each of these places. That will repay the efforts I made to teach him when he was a little boy.” Precious Jade had to agree and went off to rack his brains.
Of Yingchun, Tanchun and Xichun, Tanchun was the cleverest, but she realized that she was no match for Baochai and Mascara Jade. Still she had to write something, as the others were doing. Li Wan, too, contrived to compose a verse of sorts.
The Imperial Consort looked first at the girls’ attempts. Here is what they had written:
REFRESHING THE HEART (Yingchun)
Landscapes strange and rare here we find,
Bashfully, at the word of command, I take up my pen;
Who dreamed of such loveliness in the world of men?
A stroll through these grounds refreshes heart and mind.
ALL THINGS VIE IN SPLENDOUR (Tanchun)
This garden laid out with consummate art,
I blush, with my poor skill, its fame to render.
Past telling are the marvels in this place,
For here, indeed, all things compete in splendour.
REFINEMENT IN CREATION (Xichun)
This landscape stretches to infinity,
Its high pavilions soaring to the sky;
Laid out in radiance of the moon and sun,
Nature itself is by these scenes outdone.
Bright hills and crystal water intertwine,
No fairy isle is half as fair or fine.
Green fans of singers mid sweet herbs are lost,
Plum-petals by red skirts of dancers tossed.
Rare verses should record this golden hour,
Our joy at the nymph’s descent from jasper tower.
Once she has visited these lovely grounds,
No mortal foot may overstep their bounds.

The Imperial Consort looked first at the girls’ attempts. Here is what they had written:
REFRESHING THE HEART (Yingchun)
Landscapes strange and rare here we find,
Bashfully, at the word of command, I take up my pen;
Who dreamed of such loveliness in the world of men?
A stroll through these grounds refreshes heart and mind.
ALL THINGS VIE IN SPLENDOUR (Tanchun)
This garden laid out with consummate art,
I blush, with my poor skill, its fame to render.
Past telling are the marvels in this place,
For here, indeed, all things compete in splendour.
REFINEMENT IN CREATION (Xichun)
This landscape stretches to infinity,
Its high pavilions soaring to the sky;--[[User:Ding Zhongxia|Ding Zhongxia]] ([[User talk:Ding Zhongxia|talk]]) 08:30, 9 June 2021 (UTC)Ding Zhongxia

=Dù Xīnyǔ 杜心语=
凝晖钟瑞(匾额)薛宝钗

芳园筑向帝城西，华日祥云笼罩奇。高柳喜迁莺出谷，修篁时待凤来
仪。文风已著宸游夕，孝化应隆归省时。睿藻仙才瞻仰处，自惭何敢再为
辞？

世外仙源(匾额)林黛玉

宸游增悦豫，仙境别红尘。借得山川秀，添来气象新。香融金谷酒，
花媚玉堂人。何幸邀恩宠，宫车过往频。

元妃看毕，称赏一番，又笑道：“终是薛林二妹之作与众不同，非愚姊妹所及。”原
来林黛玉安心今夜大展奇才，将众人压倒，不想贾妃只命一匾一咏，倒不好违谕
多做，只胡乱做一首五言律应命罢了。

彼时宝玉尚未做完，才做了“潇湘馆”与“蘅芜苑”两首，正做“怡红院”一
首，起稿内有“绿玉春犹卷”一句。宝钗转眼瞥见，便趁众人不理论，推他道：
“贵人因不喜‘红香绿玉’四字，才改了‘怡红快绿’；你这会子偏又用‘绿玉’二
字，岂不是有意和他分驰了？况且蕉叶之典故颇多，再想一个改了罢。”宝玉见
宝钗如此说，便拭汗说道：“我这会子总想不起什么典故出处来。”宝钗笑道：
“你只把‘绿玉’的‘玉’字改作‘蜡’字就是了。”宝玉道：“‘绿蜡’可有出处？”

Glory and auspiciousness are all gathered here (the title of the poem), written by Xue Baochai

         The beautiful grand view garden is built in the west of the capital. The bright sunshine and colorful clouds cover the treasures in the garden.

The towering willows happily welcome the yellow warbler from the valley, and the high bamboo bushes are waiting for the Phoenix to come here.

The imperial court's enlightenment is more obvious on the night when the imperial concubine travels, and the emperor's filial piety is more prosperous when the imperial concubine goes home to visit relatives.

Looking up to the poems of the virtuous imperial concubine's genius, how could those learned Taifu dare to write again?

                 Fairyland outside the world (the title of the poem), written by Lin Daiyu

         Where is this famous Grand View Garden built? It's like a fairyland in the sky, not in the world. Skillfully with the help of the original beauty of the landscape, but also ingenuity to add a new Dou Qiao scenery. Tonight, the empress of Yuanfei went home to visit her relatives. She drank wine and wrote poems in the garden. The strong fragrance of flowers blended into the wine helped her to be more elegant, and the flowers opened more charming to her. So lucky to get the favor of the emperor, now as a lady, every trip has a palace carriage guard of honor. It's really beautiful and remarkable.

After reading their poems, Yuan Fei praised them and said with a smile, "in the end, Xue Baochai and Lin Daiyu's poems are different. The other sisters are far inferior to them."

Originally, Lin Daiyu was ready to show her skills and concentrate on overwhelming everyone tonight, but she didn't expect that Princess Jia would only write a plaque and chant. She was also embarrassed to disobey orders and create more poems, so she could only write a five character metrical poem.

     At this time, Jia Baoyu had not finished his poem, so he wrote two poems: "Xiaoxiangguan" and "juanwuyuan". He was writing the poem "yihongyuan". In the first draft, there was a sentence "lvyuchunyoujuan". When Xue Baochai caught a glimpse of it, she pushed Jia Baoyu and said, "because you don't like the word" red fragrant green jade ", you changed the word" happy red and green "; Now you use the word "green jade" again. Didn't you mean to fight against her? What's more, there are so many allusions about banana leaves that you just want to change them. " Seeing that Xue Baochai said so, Jia Baoyu wiped away her sweat and said, "I can't think of any allusions at this time." Xue Baochai said with a smile, "you can only change the word" jade "from" green jade "to" wax. " Jia Baoyu said: "does green wax have a source?"

=Guō Yàbō 郭亚波=
宝
钗悄悄的咂嘴点头笑道：“亏你今夜不过如此，将来金殿对策，你大约连‘赵钱
孙李’都忘了呢！唐朝韩翊咏芭蕉诗头一句：‘跨烛无烟绿蜡干’，都忘了么？”
宝玉听了，不觉洞开心意，笑道：“该死！眼前现成之句一时竟想不到。姐姐真
可谓‘一字师’了。从此只叫你师傅，再不叫姐姐了。”宝钗亦悄悄的笑道：“还
不快做上去，只姐姐妹妹的。谁是你姐姐？那上头穿黄袍的才是你姐姐呢。”
一面说笑，因怕他耽延工夫，遂抽身走开了。

宝玉续成了此首，共三首。此时黛玉未得展才，心上不快。因见宝玉构思
太苦，走至案旁，知宝玉只少“杏帘在望”一首，因叫他抄录前三首，却自己吟成
一律，写在纸条上，搓成个团子，掷向宝玉跟前。宝玉打开一看，觉比自己做的
三首高得十倍，遂忙恭楷誊完呈上。贾妃看是：

有凤来仪，宝玉秀玉初成实，堪宜待凤凰。竿竿青欲滴，个个绿生凉。迸砌防阶水，穿帘碍鼎香。莫摇分碎影，好梦正初长。

蘅芷清芬
蘅芜满静苑，萝薛助芬芳。软衬三春草，柔拖一缕香。轻烟迷曲径，
冷翠湿衣裳。谁谓“池塘”曲，谢家幽梦长。

怡红快绿
深庭长日静，两两出婵娟。绿蜡春犹卷，红妆夜未眠。凭栏垂绎袖，
倚石护清烟。对立东风里，主人应解怜。

杏帘在望
杏帘招客饮，在望有山庄。菱荇鹅儿水，桑榆燕子梁。一畦春韭绿，
十里稻花香。盛世无饥馁，何须耕织忙。

With a mocking smile and a smack of the lips she nodded. “If you’re in such a state tonight, by the time you sit for the Palace Examination I dare say you’ll even forget the first primer you ever read. Have you forgotten the opening line of that poem on the plantain by the Tang poet Qian Xu, ‘Smokeless the cold candles, the green wax is dry’?” Precious Jade Merchant felt as if a veil had been lifted from his eyes. “How stupid of me!” he chuckled. “Fancy forgetting a ready-made phrase like that. You’re really my ‘one-word-teacher.’ From now on I shall have to address you as ‘master’, not as ‘sister’ any more.” Suppressing a smile Precious Hairpin Marshgrass replied, “Hurry up and finish instead of talking such nonsense. Who are you calling ‘sister’? That’s your sister sitting up there in the golden robes. Why call me your sister?” Afraid to delay him by chatting, she slipped away. Precious Jade Merchant persevered until three poems were done and Marscara Jade Forest, depressed at having no chance to shine, came up to his desk where he was struggling alone, meaning to help him out by writing a couple of poems for him. Asked if he had finished, Precious Jade Merchant said, “I’ve only done three. All left now is Approach to Apricot Tavern.” “Well then, let me do that for you, while you copy out the other three.” After thinking for a moment with lowered head, she scribbled the poem out on a slip of paper, screwed it into a ball and tossed it to Precious Jade Merchant. When he smoothed it out he found it ten times better than his own attempts. He was overjoyed. Having hurriedly copied it out with care he presented all four poems to First Spring Merchant.
This is what she read:

WHERE THE PHOENIX ALIGHTS
The fruit fresh formed on jade stalks rare, Makes for the phoenix fitting fare;
So green each stem they seem to drip, With coolness seeping from each verdant tip.
Bursting through stones, they change the water’s track, Piercing through screens, hold tripod’s incense back;
Let none disturb these chequered shades, That sweetly she may dream till daylight fades.

PURE SCENT OF ALPINIA AND IRIS
Alpinia fills the courtyard free from dust, By climbing fig its fragrance reinforced;
Softly they heighten the fresh green of spring, Gently they trail their perfume, ring on ring.
A light mist hides the winding path from view, From covered walks drips chill and verdant dew.
But who will celebrate the pool in song? Lost in a dream, at peace, the poet sleeps long.

HAPPY RED AND DELIGHTFUL GREEN
In quiet court long days pass tranquilly, A charming match, plantain and apple-tree;
The green wax leaves in spring are yet furled tight, The blossom decked in red keeps watch at night;
With crimson sleeves one sweeps the balustrade, One, misty green, is by the rocks arrayed.
Facing each other in the soft east wind, They surely bring their mistress peace of mind!

APPROACH TO APRICOT TAVERN
A grove of apricots, a tavern-sign, And a hillside hamlet beyond;
Elms, mulberries, swallows on rafters, And geese on the caltrop pond.
In the fields spring leeks are green, All round, the paddy flowers scent the breeze;
None goes hungry in these good times, Ploughman and weaver alike can take their ease.

--[[User:Huang Fangfang|Huang Fangfang]] ([[User talk:Huang Fangfang|talk]]) 05:27, 9 June 2021 (UTC)
the Tang poet Qian Xu→the Tang poet Korea Assistance

“How stupid of me!”→“How stupid I am!”

From now on I shall have to address you as ‘master’, not as ‘sister’ any more.”→From now on I shall have to address you as my ‘master’, not as my ‘sister’ any more.”

Asked if he had finished→Asking if he had finished

After thinking for a moment with lowered head→After thinking for a moment with her lowered head

=Huáng Fāngfāng 黄芳芳=
贾妃看毕，喜之不尽，说：“果然进益了！”又指“杏帘”一首为四首之冠，遂将“浣
葛山庄”改为“稻香村”。又命探春将方才十数首诗，另以锦笺誊出，令太监传
与外厢。贾政等看了，都称颂不已。贾政又进《归省颂》。元春又命以琼酪金
脍等物，赐与宝玉并贾兰。此时贾兰尚幼，未谙诸事，只不过随母依叔行礼而
已。

那时贾蔷带领一班女戏子在楼下，正等得不耐烦，只见个太监飞跑下
来，说：“做完了诗了，快拿戏目来！”贾蔷忙将戏目呈上，并十二个人的花名册
子。少时，点了四出戏：第一出，《豪宴》；第二出，《乞巧》；第三出，《仙缘》；第四
出，《离魂》。贾蔷忙张罗扮演起来，一个个歌有裂石之音，舞有天魔之态，虽是
妆演的形容，却做尽悲欢情状。

刚演完了，一个太监执一金盘糕点之属进来，问：“谁是龄官？”贾蔷便知是
赐龄官之物，连忙接了，命龄官叩头。太监又道：“贵妃有谕，说：‘龄官极好，再
做两出戏，不拘那两出就是了。’”贾蔷忙答应了，因命龄官做《游园》《惊梦》二
出。龄官自为此二出原非本角之戏，执意不从，定要做《相约》《相骂》二出。贾
蔷扭他不过，只得依他做了。贾妃甚喜，命：“莫难为了这女孩子，好生教习。”额
外赏了两匹宫绸，两个荷包，并金银锞子食物之类。

After seeing these, Princess Merchant was overjoyed and said, "Surely, you have made a progress!" Then, she appointed the "Apricot Curtain" as the crown of four poems, and transferred "Hemp- Washing Cottage" to "Rice Fragrance Village". In addition, she ordered Seeking-Spring to copy the poems out with delicate and ornate letter paper, and sent an eunuch to bring these to the outside. Master Merchant and others all praised them a lot. Master Merchant wrote the "Praises for Returning Home" as well. First Spring also was ordered to give wine, sugar, gold and other items to Precious Jade and Cymbidium Merchant. At that time, Cymbidium Merchant was still young and did not know anything. She just followed his mother and uncle to give a salute.

Rose Merchant, followed by a group of female actors, was waiting impatiently downstairs. At that moment, a eunuch flew down the stairs and said: "The project of making poems has finished. Quickly please give me the contents of plays!" Rose Merchant hurried up passing on the contents, together with the roster of twelve people. After a while, four plays were ordered: the first, the "A Grand Banquet", the second, "Qi Qiao", the third, "Fairy", the fourth, "Missing Souls". Rose Merchant hastily prepared people to play up. They all could sing with the sound of cracked stone, and dance with the state of the devil. Although they made up well, they presented sadness happiness extremely.

As soon as the performance was over, an eunuch came in with a golden plate with cakes and asked, "Who is the 龄官official?" Rose Merchant knew it was
to be given to Charmante. She quickly received it and ordered Charmante to kowtow.The eunuch said, "Your concubine has an order, saying, 'Charmante performed very well. Make another two plays. You are not limited to make those very two.'" Rose Merchant agreed quickly, ordering the Charmante to make "Garden Travel" and "Surprising Dreams" two plays. Charmante thought that those two had not been her own plays where she played the leading role. So she insisted on rejecting to perform, and persisted to perform "Meeting" and "Scolding". Rose Merchant failed to persuade her but to allow her do what she wanted to do. Princess Merchant was very happy, ordering: "Don't let this girl feel awkward. Teach her attentively." There were additional rewards: two palace silk, two bags, some small pieces of gold and silver, some food and so on.

=Huáng Lìpèi 黄沥霈=
然后撤筵，将未到之处，复
又游玩。忽见山环佛寺，忙盥手进去焚香拜佛，又题一匾云：“苦海慈航”；又额
外加恩与一班幽尼女道。

少时，太监跪启：“赐物俱齐，请验按例行赏。”乃呈上略节。贾妃从头看了
无话，即命照此而行。太监下来，一一发放。原来贾母的是金玉如意各一柄，沉
香拐杖一根，伽楠念珠一串，“富贵长春”宫缎四匹，“福寿绵长”宫绸四匹，紫金
“笔锭如意”锞十锭，“吉庆有余”银锞十锭。邢夫人等二分，只减了如意、拐、珠
四样。贾敬、贾赦、贾政等每分御制新书二部，宝墨二匣，金银盏各二只，表礼按
前。宝钗黛玉诸姊妹等，每人新书一部，宝砚一方，新样格式金银锞二对。宝玉
亦同。贾兰是金银项圈二个，金银锞二对。尤氏、李纨、凤姐等皆金银锞四锭，
表礼四端。另有表礼二十四端，清钱一千串，是赏与贾母王夫人及各姊妹房中
奶娘众丫鬟的。贾珍、贾琏、贾环、贾蓉等皆是表礼一端，金银锞一对。其余彩
缎百匹，白银千两，御酒数瓶，是赐东西两府及园中管理工程、陈设、答应及司
戏、掌灯诸人的。外又有清钱五百串，是赐厨役、优伶、百戏、杂行人等的。

众人谢恩已毕，执事太监启道：“时已丑正三刻，请驾回銮。”贾妃不由的满
眼又滚下泪来，却又勉强笑着，拉了贾母王夫人的手不忍放，再四叮咛：“不须记
挂，好生保养。

When the banquet had been cleared, and Charmante once more continued her visit through those places to which she had not been. She quite caught sight of the Buddhist Temple encircled the hills and promptly rinsing her hands, she walked in and burnt incense and worshipped Buddha. She also composed an idea for a tablet, "a humane boat on the world's bitter sea", and went once again so far as to show additional grace to a company of ascetic nuns and Taoist priestesses.

A eunuch came in a short while and reverently fell on his knees. "The presents are all in readiness," he reported, " and may please you to check them and to distribute them, in compliance with custom," and he presented her a list which the Merchant consort skimmed from the very top and without raising any objection, and readily commanding that action could be taken according to the list. A eunuch descended and issued the gifts one after another. The presents for Grandma Merchant consisted, of two scepters, one of gold, the other of jade with " may your wishes be fulfilled" inscribed on them; a staff made of lign-aloes; a string of chaplet beads of Jia-nan fragrant wood; four rolls of imperial satin with words "Affluence and honors and Perennial Spring"; four rolls of imperial silk with the words "Perennial Happiness and Longevity"; ten purple gold ingots, representing "a pen as you like", and ten silver ingots with the device "Felicitous Blessings." While the two shares of Madam City →Lady City--[[User:Huang Xiaolan|Huang Xiaolan]] ([[User talk:Huang Xiaolan|talk]]) 11:24, 25 May 2021 (UTC) and Madam King →Lady King--[[User:Huang Xiaolan|Huang Xiaolan]] ([[User talk:Huang Xiaolan|talk]]) 11:24, 25 May 2021 (UTC) were received four things in all, only shorts of Grandma Merchant by the scepters and staffs. Master Merchant, Pardon Merchant, Honor Merchant and the others had been each distributed a work newly written by the Emperor, two boxes of superior ink, and gold and silver cups, two pairs of each; their other gifts being identical with those above. Jeweled Hairpin, Mascara Jade Forest, all the sisters and the rest were assigned each a copy of a new book, a fine slab, and two pair of gold and silver ornaments of new kind and original in shape; Precious Jade Merchant likewise receiving the same presents. Cymbidium Merchant's gifts consisted of two necklets, one of gold, the other of silver, and two pairs of gold ingots. Mrs. You, the widow Silk Plum, Lady Phoenix and the others had, each of them, four ingots of gold and silver; and four pieces of silk. In addition, there were presents consist of twenty-four pieces of silk and a thousand strings of good cash to be allotted to the nurses and waiting maids in the apartments of Grandma Merchant, Madam King →Lady King--[[User:Huang Xiaolan|Huang Xiaolan]] ([[User talk:Huang Xiaolan|talk]]) 11:24, 25 May 2021 (UTC) and the respective sisters; while Treasure Merchant, Romance Merchant, Ring Merchant, Prosperity Merchant and the rest had, everyone, a piece of silk, and a pair of gold and silver ingots for presents. As regards the other gifts, there were a hundred rolls of various colored silks, a thousand ounces of pure silver, and several bottles of imperial wine intended to be allotted upon all the men-servants of the mansions, on the East and the West, as well as upon those who had been in the garden overseeing works, arranging the decorations and in waiting to answer calls and who looked after the theatres and managed the lanterns. Besides, there being five hundred strings of pure cash for the cooks, waiters, jugglers and hundred of actors and every kind of domestics.

The whole party had finished by giving expression to their thanks for her bounty, when the managers and eunuchs respectfully announced: " It is already a quarter to three, and may please your Majesty to turn back to your chariot." The Merchant consort's eyes brimmed over, much against she will, and she once more gave vent to tears. However, forcing herself to put on a smile again, she clasped Grandma Merchant's and Madam King's →Lady King--[[User:Huang Xiaolan|Huang Xiaolan]] ([[User talk:Huang Xiaolan|talk]]) 11:24, 25 May 2021 (UTC) hands and could not bring herself to let them go' and she repeatedly impressed their minds that there was no need to give away any concern and that they should take good care of their health.

=Huáng Xiàolán 黄笑兰=
如今天恩浩荡，一月许进内省视一次，见面尽容易的，何必过悲。倘明岁天恩仍许归省，不可如此奢华糜费了。”贾母等已哭的哽噎难言了。贾妃虽不忍别，奈皇家规矩，违错不得的，只得忍心上舆去了。这里诸人好容易将贾母劝住，及王夫人搀扶出园去了。未知如何，下回分解。

◎第十九回情切切良宵花解语意绵绵静日玉生香

话说贾妃回宫，次日见驾谢恩，并回妻归省之事，龙颜甚悦，又发内帑彩缎金银等物，以赐贾政及各椒房等员，不必细说。

且说荣宁二府中连日用尽心力，真是人人力倦，各各神疲，又将园中一应陈设动用之物收拾了两三天方完。第一个凤姐事多任重，别人或可偷闲躲静，独他是不能脱得；二则本性要强，不肯落人褒贬，只扎挣着与无事的人一样。第一个宝玉是极无事最闲暇的。偏这一早，袭人的母亲又亲来回过贾母，接袭人家去吃年茶，晚间才得回来。因此，宝玉只和众丫头们掷骰子赶围棋作戏。正在房内玩得没兴头，忽见丫头们来回说：“东府里珍大爷来请过去看戏，放花灯。”宝玉听了，便命换衣裳。才要去时，忽又有贾妃赐出糖蒸酥酪来；宝玉想上次袭人喜吃此物，便命留与袭人了，自己回过贾母，过去看戏。

谁想贾珍这边唱的是《丁郎认父》、《黄伯央大摆阴魂阵》，更有《孙行者大闹天宫》、《姜太公斩将封神》等类的戏文。倏尔神鬼乱出，忽又妖魔毕露。

Thanks to the Emperor’s kindness you can now come to the Palace once a month to see me, so we shall have many chances to meet again. There is no need to be upset. If next year by Imperial grace, I’m allowed another visit home, you must promise not to be so extravagant. Grandma Merchant and other women were sobbing too bitterly to make any reply. But although First Spring could hardly bear to leave, she could not disobey the Imperial regulations and had no alternative but to re-enter her palanquin which carried her away. The whole household did their best to console the Grandma Merchant and Lady King as they helped them out of the Garden. But more of this in the next chapter.

Chapter 19
An Eloquent Maid Offers Earnest Advice One Fine Night
A Sweet Girl Shows Deep Feeling One Quiet Day

The day after her return to the Palace the Imperial Consort appeared before the Emperor to thank him for his kindness, and so pleased him with an account of her visit home that he sent rich gifts of satin, gold and silver from his privy store to Master Merchant and other fathers of visiting ladies. But no more of this.

The inmates of the Rong and Ning Mansions were completely worn out after their recent exertions, and it took several days to remove and store away all the decoration and other movables from the Garden. The heaviest responsibility devolved upon Splendid Phoenix, who, unlike the others, had not a moment's respite; but she was always so eager to shine, so anxious to give no one a handle against her, that she strove to carry out her many tasks as if they were nothing. Precious Jade, on the other hand, was the one with the least to do and the most leisure. One morning Aroma’s mother came and asked the Grandma Merchant permission to take her daughter home to tea and keep her until the evening. So Precious Jade was left to amuse himself with the other maids at dice or draughts. He was feeling rather bored when a girl announced that a message had come from Treasure Merchant inviting him over to the Ning Mansion to watch some operas and see their New Year lanterns. While Precious Jade was changing his clothes before setting out, a gift of sweetened junket arrived from the Imperial Consort. Remembering how Aroma had enjoyed this delicacy the last time they had some, he asked them to keep it for her. Then, having taken his leave of the Grandma Merchant, he went over to the other mansion.

He was rather taken aback to find them performing operas like ''Master Ding Finds His Father'', ''Huang Boyang Deploys Chosts in a Battle'', ''Monkey Plays Havoc in Heaven'' and ''The Patriarch Jiang Kills Generals and Deifies Them''. In all these, especially the two last, gods, ghosts monsters

=Huáng Zǐlóng 黄梓龙 Mr.=
内
中扬幡过会，号佛行香，锣鼓喊叫之声，远闻巷外。满街上个个都赞：“好热闹
戏，别人家断不能有的。”宝玉见繁华热闹到如此不堪的田地，只略坐了坐，便
走往各处闲耍。先是进内去和尤氏并丫头姬妾说笑了一回，便出二门来。尤氏
等仍料他出来看戏，遂也不曾照管。贾珍、贾琏、薛蟠等只顾猜谜行令，百般作
乐，纵时不见他在座，只道在里边去了，也不理论。至于跟宝玉的小厮们，那
年纪大些的，知宝玉这一来了必是晚间才散，因此偷空也有会赌钱的，也有往亲
友家去吃年茶的，或赌或饮，都私自散了，待晚间再来；那些小些的，都钻进戏房
里瞧热闹去了。

宝玉见一个人没有，因想：“素日这里有个小书房内曾挂着一轴美人，极画
的得神。今日这般热闹，想那里自然无人，那美人也自然是寂寞的，须得我去望
慰他一回。”想着，便往那厢来。刚到窗前，闻得房内呻吟之声。宝玉倒唬了一
跳：“敢是美人活了不成?”乃大着胆子，舐破窗纸，向内一看，那轴美人却不曾
活，却是茗烟按着一个女孩子，也干那警幻所训之事。宝玉禁不住大叫：“了不
得！”一脚踹进门去，将那两个唬开了，抖衣而颤。

茗烟见是宝玉，忙跪下哀求。宝玉道：“青天白日，这是怎么说！珍大爷知
道，你是死是活？”一面看那丫头，虽不标致倒白净，些微亦有动人心处，羞的脸
红耳赤，低首无言。

and ogres took the stage among waving pennants, temple processions, invocations to Buddha and offerings of incense, while the din of gonging, drumming and shouting carried to the street outside. The passersby commented appreciatively that no other family but the Jias could afford to put on such a lively entertainment. Only Baoyu, disgusted by suchrowdy, showy proceedings, soon slipped away to amuse himself elsewhere. First he went to the inner rooms to chat with Madam You and tease the maids and concubines there. And when he strolled out of the inner gate they did not see him off, assuming that he was going back to watch the performance. The menfolk - Jia Zhen, Jia Lian,Xue Pan and the restwere having such а good time gaming and drinking that they did not worry about his ;absence either, taking it for granted that he hagone inside. As for the servants who had come with him, the older ones, not expecting him to leave before dusk, sneaked off to gamble, drink New Year tea with relatives and friends or visit some brothel or tavern, intending to be back bydark. The younger ones, for their part, squeezed into the theatre to watch the fun.

When Baoyu found himself alone he thought, "There"s а marvellously lifelike painting of а beauty in the small study here. In all this excitement today she must be lonely. l"d better go and cheer her up." He made his way towards the study.As he neared the window he heard a moaning inside which pulled him up with a start.Could the beauty in the picture have come to life? Screwing up his courage, he made a hole inthe window-paper with his tongue and peepedthrough. No, the painted beauty had not come Tlife, but his page Mingyan was holding down аgirl and indulging in the game taught Baoyu by the Goddess of Disenchantment.Heavens above!"As Baoyu charged into the room, the trembling lovers quickly broke apart. And whenMingyan saw who it was, he fell on his knees tobeg for mercy. "A fine way to carry on in broad daylight!"cried Baoyu. Do you want Lord Jia Zhen to killyou?" Meanwhile he was sizing up the maid, nobeauty but а girl with а fair complexion and a certain charm. Red to the ears with shame,she hung her head in silence.

and ogres took the stage among waving pennants, temple processions, invocations to Buddha and offerings of incense, while the din of gonging, drumming and shouting carried to the street outside. The passersby commented appreciatively that no other family but the Jias could afford to put on such a lively entertainment. Only Precious Jade Merchant, disgusted by such rowdy, showy proceedings, soon slipped away to amuse himself elsewhere. First he went to the inner rooms to chat with Madam You and tease the maids and concubines there. And when he strolled out of the inner gate they did not see him off, assuming that he was going back to watch the performance. The menfolk - Treasure Merchant, Romance Merchant,Dragon Marshgrass and the rest were having such а good time gaming and drinking that they did not worry about his ;absence either, taking it for granted that he had gone inside. As for the servants who had come with him, the older ones, not expecting him to leave before dusk, sneaked off to gamble, drink New Year tea with relatives and friends or visit some brothel or tavern, intending to be back by dark. The younger ones, for their part, squeezed into the theater to watch the fun.
When Precious Jade Merchant found himself alone he thought, "There"s a lifelike painting of а beauty in the small study here. In all this excitement today she must be lonely. l"d better go and cheer her up." He made his way towards the study.As he neared the window he heard a moaning inside which pulled him up with a start.Could the beauty in the picture have come to life? Screwing up his courage, he made a hole in the window-paper with his tongue and peeped through. No, the painted beauty had not come to life, but his page Tealeaf was holding down аgirl and indulging in the game taught Precious Jade Merchant by the Goddess of Disenchantment.Heavens above!"As Precious Jade Merchant charged into the room, the trembling lovers quickly broke apart. And when Tealeaf saw who it was, he fell on his knees to beg for mercy. "A fine way to carry on in broad daylight!"cried Precious Jade Merchant. Do you want Lord Treasure Merchant to kill you?" Meanwhile he was sizing up the maid, no beauty but а girl with а fair complexion and a certain charm. Red to the ears with shame,she hung her head in silence. ——Li Yihao

=Lǐ Yìhào 李艺浩=
宝玉跺脚道：“还不快跑？”一语提醒了那丫头，飞也似的去
了。宝玉又赶出去叫道：“你别怕，我是不告诉人的。”急得茗烟在后叫：“祖宗，
这是分明告诉人了！”宝玉因问：“那丫头十几岁了？”茗烟道：“不过十六七岁
了。”宝玉道：“连他的岁数也不问问，别的自然越发不知了，可见他白认得你了。
可怜，可怜！”又问：“名字叫什么？“茗烟笑道：“若说出名字来话长，真正新鲜奇
文。他说他母亲养他的时节，做了一个梦，梦得了一匹锦，上面是五色富贵不断
头的‘卍’字花样，所以他的名字就叫作万儿。”宝玉听了笑道：“真也新奇，想必
他将来有些造化。”说着，沉思一会。

茗烟因问：“二爷为何不看这样的好戏？”宝玉道：“看了半日，怪烦的，出来
逛逛，就遇见你们了。这会子作什么呢？”茗烟微微笑道：“这会子没人知道，我
悄悄的引二爷往城外逛去，一会儿再往这里来，他们就不知道了。”宝玉道：“不
好，仔细花子拐了去。且是他们知道了，又闹大了。不如往近些的地方去，还可
就来。”茗烟道：“就近地方谁家可去？这却难了。”宝玉笑道：“依我的主意，咱
们竟找花大姐姐去，瞧他在家作什么呢。”茗烟笑道：“好，好！倒忘了他家。”又
道：“他们知道了，说我引着二爷胡走，要打我呢？”宝玉道：“有我呢。”茗烟听
说，拉了马，二人从后门就走了。幸而袭人家不远，不过一半里路程，转眼已到
门前。
Precious Jade Merchant stamped foot and said: "still not fast run?" This word reminded that girl, so she run away quickly.
"Don't be afraid. I don't tell anyone." Tealeaf was so anxious that she cried: "This is clearly to tell others!" "Is that girl in her teens?", asked by Precious Jade Merchant. Tealeaf said: "Sixteen or seventeen years old." "She did not even asked how old he is," said Precious Jade Merchant, "and of course she didn't know anything else. What a poor girl!" "What was his name?" he continued to ask. Tealeaf said with a smile:"It is a long story behind his name, and his name was really a fresh and strange. He said that her mother had a dream about getting a brocade with five colors with .. in it when she raised him, so
his name is called Wan er." Precious Jade laughed and said, "That is a novelty. There may be have luck for him". After this words, he kept thinking for a while.

As a result, Tealeaf asked: "Why not see such good play?" "I've been watching it for half a day, and it makes me really annoying. So hang out and meet you. What are we going to do?"" said Precious Jade Merchant. Tealeaf slightly smiled: "No one notice us, I quietly lead you to go out towards the city, and then come back, so they do not know this trip." Precious Jade Merchant said, "That is not a good idea. Be careful with human traders. And if they know, it will make a big fuss. So be better to some close place." Tealeaf relied, "Whose house can we go? It's hard." Precious Jade Merchant said with a smile, "According to my idea, let's go to Sister Hua's and to see what her family are doing." Tealeaf said with a smile again: "Good, good! I forgot her family. If they know it is I that incite you, other people want to beat me?" "I am with you," said Precious Jade Merchant.After hearing this promise, she pulled up their horses and left from the back door." Fortunately, it was not far from the Aroma's house, half a mile away. They arrived in the blink of an eye. ——Li Yihao

Precious Jade Merchant stamped a foot and said: "still not fast run?" This word reminded that girl, so she run away quickly.
"Don't be afraid. I don't tell anyone." Tealeaf was so anxious that she cried: "This is clearly to tell others!" "Is that girl in her teens?", asked Precious Jade Merchant. Tealeaf said: "Sixteen or seventeen years old." "She did not even ask how old he is," said Precious Jade Merchant, "and of course she didn't know anything else. What a poor girl!" "What was his name?" he continued to ask. Tealeaf said with a smile: "It is a long story behind his name, and his name was really fresh and strange. He said that her mother had a dream about getting a brocade with five colors with .. in it when she raised him, so
his name is called Wan er." Precious Jade laughed and said, "That is a novelty. There may have luck for him". After these words, he kept thinking for a while.

As a result, Tealeaf asked: "Why not see such good play?" "I've been watching it for half a day, and it makes me really annoying. So hang out and meet you. What are we going to do?" said Precious Jade Merchant. Tealeaf slightly smiled: "No one notices us, I quietly lead you to go out towards the city, and then come back, so they do not know this trip." Precious Jade Merchant said, "That is not a good idea. Be careful with human traders. And if they know, it will make a big fuss. So be better to some close place." Tealeaf relied on, "Whose house can we go to? It's hard." Precious Jade Merchant said with a smile, "According to my idea, let's go to Sister Hua's and see what her family are doing." Tealeaf said with a smile again: "Good, good! I forgot her family. If they know it is I that incite you, other people want to beat me?" "I am with you," said Precious Jade Merchant. After hearing this promise, she pulled up their horses and left from the back door." Fortunately, it was not far from the Aroma's house, half a mile away. They arrived in the blink of an eye. --[[User:Liu Tingyang|Liu Tingyang]] ([[User talk:Liu Tingyang|talk]]) 13:16, 14 June 2021 (UTC)

=Liú Tíngyáng 刘廷阳=
茗烟先进去叫袭人之兄花自芳。此时袭人之母接了袭人与几个外甥女儿
几个侄女儿来家，正吃果茶，听见外面有人叫“花大哥”，花自芳忙出去看时，见
是他主仆两个，唬的惊疑不定，连忙抱下宝玉来，至院内嚷道：“宝二爷来了！”别
人听见还可，袭人听了，也不知为何，忙跑出来迎着宝玉，一把拉着问：“你怎么
来了？”宝玉笑道：“我怪闷的，来瞧瞧你作什么呢。”袭人听了，才把心放下来，
说道：“你也胡闹了，可作什么来呢？”一面又问茗烟：“还有谁跟来？”茗烟笑道：
“别人都不知，就只我们两个。”袭人听了，复又惊慌说道：“这还了得！倘或撞
见了人，或是遇见了老爷，街上人挤马碰，有个闪失，也是玩得的？你们的胆子
比斗还大。都是茗烟调唆的，回去我定告诉嬷嬷们打你。”茗烟撅了嘴道：“二
爷骂着打着叫我引了来的，这会子推到我身上。我说别要来罢！不然，我们还
去罢。”花自芳忙劝道：“罢了，已是来了，也不用多说了。只是茅檐草舍，又窄又
不干净，爷怎么坐呢？”

袭人之母也早迎了出来。袭人拉了宝玉进去。宝玉见房中三五个女孩
儿，见他进来，都低了头，羞脸通红。花自芳母子两个恐怕宝玉冷，又让他上炕，
又忙另摆果桌，又忙倒好茶。袭人笑道：“你们不用白忙，我自然知道，果子也不
用摆了，不敢乱给东西吃。”

Tealeaf went first to call for Aroma"s brother The Fragrant Flower. Aroma"s mother was had just fetched several nephews to their home, and as the family just settled down to their tea when they heard this voice outside calling for The Fragrant Flower. The Fragrant Flower surprised and went out, only to find that his sister"s young master waiting at the gate with a servant. He went back to the courtyard and yelled: "It"s Precious Jade!" Aroma came running out to discover the cause of this unaccountable visit. As soon as she saw him she clung to him anxiously: "What"s wrong with you?” Precious Jade laughed and said: “I was just feeling bored, so I came over to see what did you do.” "That doesn’t make sense." said Aroma, relieved to find that nothing was amiss. "What did you think I would do?" She turned to Tealeaf and asked: "Who else is with you?" "Nobody," said Tealeaf , smilely. "Nobody knows we’re here." This time Aroma freaked out again. "That"s terrible! Suppose you will meet someone? Suppose you were to meet the Master?" She glanced at Precious Jade. "In any case, the streets are so crowded now, you could easily get ridden down or something. It would be no joke if you were to have an accident. You two are totally crazy." She turned to Tealeaf again. "You put him up to here? Wait till I get back, I’ll tell his nannies about you. And they’ll have you flogged like a felon!" Tealeaf pulled a puppy dog face. "Don’t blame on me! Precious Jade was cursing at me to make me go with him. I kept telling him not to come. But we’d better be going back now." "You might as well stay, now you’re here," said The Fragrant Flower. "There"s no point to quarrel about it. But our place is poor and cramped and not so clean. Maybe hardly a fit place for Precious Jade."

Now Aroma’s mother came to welcome them. Aroma took Precious Jade by the hand and led him in. He saw four or five girls sitting down inside who hung their heads and blushed when he entered. Despite their blushes, The Fragrant Flower and his mother insisted that Precious Jade should get up on the kang with them, as they were afraid that he would find their house cold. Having installed him on the kang, they bustled to and fro fetching things to eat and pouring tea. "It’s no use to prepare for him, mom," said Aroma. “I know how to take care of him. There’s no point in your giving him a lot of things he won’t be able to eat."--[[User:Liu Tingyang|Liu Tingyang]] ([[User talk:Liu Tingyang|talk]]) 09:34, 13 June 2021 (UTC)

Tealeaf went first to call for Aroma"s brother The Fragrant Flower. Aroma"s mother was had just fetched several nephews to their home, and as the family just settled down to their tea when they heard this voice outside calling for The Fragrant Flower. The Fragrant Flower surprised and went out, only to find that his sister"s young master waiting at the gate with a servant. Having lifted Precious Jade off his horse, he went back to the courtyard and yelled: "Precious Jade comes!" Aroma came running out to discover the cause of this unaccountable visit. As soon as she saw him she clung to him, anxiously: "What"s wrong with you?” Precious Jade laughed and said: “I was just feeling bored, so I came over to see what did you do.” "That doesn’t make sense." said Aroma, relieved to find that nothing was amiss. "What did you think I would do?" She turned to Tealeaf and asked: "Who else is with you?" "Nobody," said Tealeaf with a grin. "Nobody knows we’re here." This time Aroma freaked out again. "That"s terrible! Suppose you will meet someone? Suppose you were to meet the Master?" She glanced at Precious Jade. "In any case, the streets are so crowded now, you could easily get ridden down or something. It would be no joke if you were to have an accident. You two are totally crazy." She turned to Tealeaf again. "You put him up to here, right? Wait till I get back, I’ll tell his nannies about you. And they’ll have you flogged like a felon!" Tealeaf pulled a puppy dog face. "Don’t blame on me! Precious Jade was cursing at me to make me go with him. I kept telling him not to come. But we’d better be going back now." "You might as well stay, now you’re here," said The Fragrant Flower. "There’s no point to quarrel about it. But our place is poor and cramped and not so clean. Maybe hardly a fit place for Precious Jade."
Now Aroma’s mother came to welcome them. Aroma took Precious Jade by the hand and led him in. He saw four or five girls sitting down inside who hung their heads and blushed when he entered. Despite their blushes, The Fragrant Flower and his mother insisted that Precious Jade should get up on the kang with them, as they were afraid that he would find their house cold. Having installed him on the kang, they bustled to and fro fetching things to eat and pouring tea. "It’s no use to prepare for him, mom," said Aroma. “I know how to take care of him. There’s no point in your giving him a lot of things he won’t be able to eat." --[[User:Liu Zhuofan|Liu Zhuofan]] ([[User talk:Liu Zhuofan|talk]]) 10:35, 14 June 2021 (UTC)

=Liú Zhuōfán 刘卓凡 Mr.=
一面说，一面将自己的坐褥拿了，铺在一个杌子上，
宝玉坐了；用自己的脚炉垫了脚，向荷包内取出两个梅花香饼儿来，又将自己的
手炉掀开焚上，仍盖好，放与宝玉怀内；然后将自己的茶杯斟了茶，送与宝玉。
彼时他母兄已是忙着齐齐整整的摆上一桌子果品来，袭人见总无可吃之物，因
笑道：“既来了，没有空去的理，好歹尝一点儿，也是来我家一趟。”说着，便拈了
几个松子瓤，吹去细皮，用手帕托着送与宝玉。

宝玉看见袭人两眼微红，粉光融滑，因悄问袭人道：“好好的哭什么？”袭人
笑道：“何尝哭！才迷了眼揉的。”因此便遮掩过了。因见宝玉穿着大红金蟒孤
腋箭袖，外罩石青貂裘排穗褂，说道：“你特为往这里来，又换新衣服，他们就不
问你往那里去的？”宝玉笑道：“原是珍大爷请过去看戏换的。”袭人点头，又道：
“坐一坐就回去罢，这个地方不是你来的。”宝玉笑道：“你就家去才好呢，我还
替你留着好东西呢。”袭人笑道：“悄悄的，叫他们听着什么意思。”一面又伸手
从宝玉项上将“通灵玉”摘下来，向他姊妹们笑道：“你们见识见识。时常说起
来都当稀罕，恨不能一见，今儿可尽力瞧了。再瞧什么稀罕物儿，也不过是这么
个东西。”说毕，递与他们传看了一遍，仍与宝玉挂好，

Aroma took her seat pad and stretched it on a foot-stool; then, Precious Jade sit down. She put her foot stove under her foot and took out two plum flower sweet cakes from her pouch. After that, she burned her hand stove and put it in Precious Jade’s arms. Then, she made one cup of tea for Precious Jade. By that time, her brother had been busy on laying out a lot of nuts on the table neatly. Aroma still thought that nothing is suitable for Precious Jade’s taste and said: “You have come to our home, so there is no reason for you to leave with hunger. Please have some food which at least proves that you have come to our home.” She picked up several pinenut kernels and blew away the thin pericarp. Then, she put them on a napkin and she gave them to Precious Jade.
He saw that her eyes were slight red, so he asked secretly why she was crying. Aroma smiled and said: “I am not crying! I rubbed my eyes just now because of the dust.” The lie convinced Precious Jade. Seeing Precious Jade wore a large red gold python with armpit sleeves and a stone blue sable coat, she asked: “You put on your new clothes and head for here intentionally. No one have asked about your destination?” He laughed and said: “The clothes were changed when Treasure Merchant invited me to watch a play.” Aroma nodded and said: “You go back quickly. This place is not suitable for you to come.” “It is good for you to come back with me. I still keep some good things for you,” he said. Aroma said: “Quiet. It not good for other people to hear it.” Then, she stretched out her hands and took down the precious jade from his neck. She talked to her sisters: “See. When talking about it, you regard it as a rare treasure and wish to see it. Today, you should stare at it carefully. There is nothing rarer than this one.” she gave the jade to them and let them see it one by one. After that, she hung it back around his neck.

=Péng Jiāyù 彭佳钰=
又命他哥哥去雇一乘小
轿，或雇一辆小车，送宝玉回去。花自芳道：“有我送去，骑马也不妨了。”袭人
道：“不为不妨，为的是碰见人。”

花自芳忙去雇了一顶小轿来，众人也不好相留，只得送宝玉出去。袭人又
抓些果子与茗烟，又把些钱与他买花炮放，教他：“不可告诉人，连你也有不是。”
一面说着，一直送宝玉至门前，看着上轿，放下轿帘。茗烟二人牵马跟随。来至
宁府街，茗烟命住轿，向花自芳道：“须得我同二爷还到东府里混一混，才过去
的，不然人家就疑惑了。”花自芳听说有理，忙将宝玉抱出轿来，送上马去。宝玉
笑道：“倒难为你了。”于是仍进了后门来，俱不在话下。

却说宝玉自出了门，他房中这些丫鬟们都越性恣意的玩笑，也有赶围棋
的，也有掷骰抹牌的，磕了一地的瓜子皮。偏奶母李嬷嬷拄拐进来请安，瞧瞧宝
玉，见宝玉不在家，丫鬟们只顾玩闹，十分看不过，因叹道：“只从我出去了不大
进来，你们越发没了样儿了，别的嬷嬷越不敢说你们了。那宝玉是个‘丈八的
灯台——照见人家，照不见自己’的，只知嫌人家腌臜，这是他的屋子，由着你
们遭塌，越不成体统了。”

Then she asked her brother to hire a sedan-chair or a small carriage and escort Precious Jade home. “I can see him back quite safely on horseback,” said Zifang. “That’s not the point. I’m afraid of his meeting someone.”

Then Zifang hurried out to hire a sedan-chair, and not daring to detain Precious Jade. They saw him out. Aroma gave Tealeaf some sweetmeats and money to buy firecrackers, warning him that he must keep this visit secret if he wanted to steer clear of trouble. She saw Precious Jade out of the gate, watched him get into the chair and lowered its curtains. Her brother and Tealeaf followed behind with the horse. When they reached the street where the Ning Mansion stood, Tealeaf ordered the chair to stop and told Zifang, “We must look in here for a while before going home, if we don’t want people to suspect anything.” Since this made good sense, Zifang handed Precious Jade out and helped him to mount his horse, while the boy apologized for troubling him. Then they slipped through the back gate, and there we will leave them.

During Precious Jade’s absence, the maids in his apartments amused themselves as they were pleased at draughts, dice and cards, until the floor was strewn with melon-seed shells. Nanny Plum chose this moment to hobble along with her cane to call on Precious Jade and see how he was. She shook her head over the way the maids were carrying on behind his back. “Since I’ve moved out and don’t come so often, you’ve grown quite out of hand,” she scolded. “The other nurses don’t dare take you to task either. ”As for Precious Jade, he’s like a ten-foot lampstand that sheds light on others but none on itself. He complains that other people are dirty, yet leaves you to turn his own rooms topsy-turvy. Disgraceful, I call it.”

--[[User:Peng Jiayu|Peng Jiayu]] ([[User talk:Peng Jiayu|talk]]) 05:09, 28 April 2021 (UTC)
----
Then she asked her brother to hire a sedan-chair or a small carriage and escort Precious Jade Merchant home. “I can see him back quite safely on horseback,” said Zifang. “That’s not the point. I’m afraid of his meeting someone.”
Then Zifang hurried out to hire a sedan-chair, and not daring to detain Precious Jade. They saw him out. Aroma gave Tealeaf some sweetmeats and money to buy firecrackers, warning him that he must keep this visit secret if he wanted to steer clear of trouble. She saw Precious Jade Merchant out of the gate, watched him get into the chair and lowered its curtains. Her brother and Tealeaf followed behind with the horse. When they reached the street where the Ning Mansion stood, Tealeaf ordered the chair to stop and told Zifang, “We must look in here for a while before going home, if we don’t want people to suspect anything.” Since this made good sense, Zifang handed Precious Jade Merchant out and helped him to mount his horse, while the boy apologized for troubling him. Then they slipped through the back gate, and there we will leave them.
During Precious Jade’s absence, the maids in his apartments amused themselves as they were pleased at draughts, dice and cards, until the floor was strewn with melon-seed shells. Nanny Plum chose this moment to hobble along with her cane to call on Precious Jade Merchant and see how he was. She shook her head over the way the maids were carrying on behind his back. “Since I’ve moved out and don’t come so often, you’ve grown quite out of hand,” she scolded. “The other nurses don’t dare take you to task either. ”As for Precious Jade, he’s like a ten-foot lampstand that sheds light on others but none on itself. He complains that other people are dirty, yet leaves you to turn his own rooms topsy-turvy. Disgraceful, I call it.”

--[[User:Shu Lin|Shu Lin]] ([[User talk:Shu Lin|talk]]) 06:43, 14 June 2021 (UTC)

20210602 culture

2021-06-14T15:42:56Z

2021-06-14T14:13:18Z

Yao Yang: /* Yāo Yáng 么阳 */

=Bào Qìnwén 鲍沁雯=
所以宁荣二府之人，都得人手。因这媳妇妖调异常，
轻浮无比，众人都呼他作“多姑娘儿”。如今贾琏在外熬煎，往日也见过这媳
妇，垂涎久了，只是内惧娇妻，外惧娈童，不曾下得手。那多姑娘儿也有意于贾
琏，只恨没空；今闻贾琏挪在外书房来，他便没事也要走三四趟去招惹。贾琏似
饥鼠一般，少不得和心腹的小厮们计议，多以金帛相许，焉有不允之理，况都和
这媳妇是旧友，一说便成。

是夜，多浑虫醉倒在炕，二鼓人定，贾琏便溜进来相会。一见面，早已神魂
失据，也不及情谈款叙，便宽衣动作起来。谁知这媳妇有天生的奇趣，一经男子
挨身，便觉遍体筋骨瘫软，使男子如卧绵上；更兼淫态浪言，压倒娼妓。贾琏此
时恨不得化在他身上。那媳妇故作浪语，在下说道：“你们女儿出花儿，供着娘
娘，你也该忌两日，倒为我腌臜了身子，快离了我这里罢。”贾琏一面大动，一面
喘吁吁答道：“你就是‘娘娘’！那里还管什么‘娘娘’！”那媳妇越浪起来，贾琏
不禁丑态毕露。一时事毕，两个又盟山誓海，难舍难分。自此后，遂成相契。

一日，大姐毒尽癍回，十二日后送了“娘娘”，合家祭天祀祖宗，还愿焚香，
庆贺放赏已毕，贾琏仍复搬进卧室。见了凤姐，正是俗语云“新婚不如远别”，
更有无限恩爱，自不必细说。
So most of the men in the Ning and Rong Mansions had had their fling with her. And because she was such a remarkably good-looking wanton, everyone called her "the Mattress"(Miss Multi), Romance Merchant was now inflamed by his banishment from his own bedroom. He used to eye "the Mattress" avidly but had so far taken no steps to get her for fear of his wife at home and his fancy boys outside. Miss Multi for her part had been hankering after Romance Merchant too, waiting eagerly for her chance. As soon as she heard that he had moved to the study she kept strolling past to flaunt her charms, and Romance Merchant rose to the bait like a famished rat. He consulted his trusted pages, who agreed to arrange a secret assignation for him, for not only did he promise them rich rewards - they were all on intimate terms themselves with Miss Multi. So the matter was settled at once. At the second watch that night, when the household had retired and Droopy Duo lay on his kang in a drunken stupor, ha Lian slipped into her room. The mere sight of her threw him into such a frenzy that with no preliminary professions of love he flung off his clothes and set to work. Now this woman was so curiously constituted that the touch of a man seemed to melt her very bones, so that he felt as if bedded in cotton-wool, while in her wanton tricks and amorous cries she outdid any prostitute. No man but was driven to utter frenzy by her. Romance Merchant only wished he could melt into her body! To inflame him further, the woman under him teased, "Your daughter has smallpox and they’re sacrificing in your home to the goddess. You ought to lead a clean life for a couple of days, not dirty yourself for me. Hurry up and get out of here.” "You’re my goddess," he panted, going all out. What do I care for any other goddess?" The more wanton the woman, the more debauched Romance Merchant revealed himself. At the end of this bout they vowed to be true to each other and could hardly bear to part. From that day they became sworn lovers. But Sister Ingenious’ illness spent its course, her pustules gradually healed. After twelve days they "saw off" the goddess and the whole family sacrificed to Heaven and their ancestors, made offerings, burnt incense, exchanged congratulations and distributed largesse. When these ceremonies were at an end, Romance Merchant returned to his old quarters and Splendid Phoenix King. As the proverb says, Reunion after long separation is better than a wedding night." We need not dwell on the transports of their love.--[[User:Bao Qinwen|Bao Qinwen]] ([[User talk:Bao Qinwen|talk]]) 12:46, 4 June 2021 (UTC)

So most of the men in the Ning and Rong Mansions had had their fling with her. And because she was such a remarkably good-looking wanton, everyone called her "the Mattress"(Miss Multi), Romance Merchant was now inflamed by his banishment from his own bedroom. He used to eye "the Mattress" avidly but had so far taken no steps to get her for fear of his wife at home and his fancy boys outside. Miss Multi for her part had been hankering after Romance Merchant too, waiting eagerly for her chance. As soon as she heard that he had moved to the study she kept strolling past to flaunt her charms, and Romance Merchant rose to the bait like a famished rat. He consulted his trusted pages, who agreed to arrange a secret assignation for him, for not only did he promise them rich rewards - they were all on intimate terms themselves with Miss Multi. So the matter was settled at once. At the second watch that night, when the household had retired and Droopy much lay on his kang in a drunken stupor, Romance Merchant slipped into her room. The mere sight of her threw him into such a frenzy that with no preliminary professions of love he flung off his clothes and set to work. Now this woman was so curiously constituted that the touch of a man seemed to melt her very bones, so that he felt as if bedded in cotton-wool, while in her wanton tricks and amorous cries she outdid any prostitute. No man but was driven to utter frenzy by her. Romance Merchant only wished he could melt into her body! To inflame him further, the woman under him teased, "Your daughter has smallpox and they’re sacrificing in your home to the goddess. You ought to lead a clean life for a couple of days, not dirty yourself for me. Hurry up and get out of here.” "You’re my goddess," he panted, going all out. What do I care for any other goddess?" The more wanton the woman, the more debauched Romance Merchant revealed himself. At the end of this bout they vowed to be true to each other and could hardly bear to part. From that day they became sworn lovers. But Sister Ingenious’ illness spent its course, her pustules gradually healed. After twelve days they "saw off" the goddess and the whole family sacrificed to Heaven and their ancestors, made offerings, burnt incense, exchanged congratulations and distributed largesse. When these ceremonies were at an end, Romance Merchant returned to his old quarters and Splendid Phoenix King. As the proverb says, Reunion after long separation is better than a wedding night." We need not dwell on the transports of their love.--[[User:Chen Keru|Chen Keru]] ([[User talk:Chen Keru|talk]]) 05:41, 7 June 2021 (UTC)

=Chén Kērǔ 陈柯汝=
次日早起，凤姐往上房里去后，平儿收拾外边拿进来的衣服铺盖，不承望
枕套中抖出一绺青丝来，平儿会意，忙藏在袖内，便走至这边房内，拿出头发来，
向贾琏笑道：“这是什么？”贾琏一见，连忙抢上来要夺，平儿便跑，被贾琏一把揪
住，按在炕上，从手中来夺。平儿笑道：“你是没良心的，我好意瞒着他来问你，
你倒赌狠！等他回来我告诉了，看你怎么样。”贾琏听说，忙陪笑央求道：“好人，
你赏我罢，我再不敢赌狠了。”

一语未了，只听凤姐声音进来，贾琏听见松了不是，抢又不是，只叫：“好
人，别叫他知道！”平儿才起身，凤姐已走进来，命平儿：“快开匣子，替太太找样
子。”平儿忙答应了，找时，凤姐见了贾琏，忽然想起来，便问平儿：“前日拿出去
的东西都收进来没有？”平儿道：“收进来了。”凤姐道：“可少什么不少？”平儿
道：“细细查了，并没少一件儿。”凤姐又道：“可多什么没有？”平儿笑道：“不少
就罢了，怎么还有得多出来？”凤姐又笑道：“这半个月，难保干净，或者有相厚的
丢下的东西戒指、汗巾等物，亦未可定。”一席话，说的贾琏脸都黄了，在凤姐身
背后，只望着平儿杀鸡抹脖使眼色，求他遮盖。

The next morning, Phoenix Sister went up early and left for the principal room. Then, Patience took the clothing outside in and prepared for the bed. To her surprise, a wisp of hair fell down from the pillow case. She understood instantly and hid it under her sleeves. Then she entered the room where Romance Merchant was and took out that hair. She smiled to him: “What’s this?” As soon as he saw it, he was about to rob it; however, Patience ran away, she was caught and pressed on the kang by him, and he grabbed the hair in her hand too. Patience smiled: “You are a heartless creature! I asked you without letting her know out of kindness, but you pull a stunt like that. What will happen to you if I tell her?” Romance Merchant entreated her, smiling: “Fair girl, please do me a favour, I won’t make an act of sheer bravado.”
Before he could finish, Phoenix’s voice came in, which put him into a dilemma whether to loose it or to clutch it. He cried: “Fair girl, do not let her know!” Sister Phoenix had entered when Patience rose up. Sister Phoenix ordered Patience: “Get the patterns out of that box for the mistress, quick.” Patience promised quickly. When they were finding the patterns, Sister Phoenix saw Romance Merchant and she suddenly remembered something and asked Patience: “Have you taken in all the things that were taken out?” “ Yes, I brought them all in.” “ Anything lost?” “I checked carefully and nothing disappeared.” “Anything new appeared?” Patience smiled: “It is normal to check whether anything was lost, how could it be that anything new appears?” Sister Phoenix smiled: “For the past half month, it was difficult to make sure that nothing new appeared. Nobody can say sure that whether his lover outside left a ring, a scarf and so on.” These words paled his face; he begged Patient to hide this for him behind Sister Phoenix.--[[User:Chen Keru|Chen Keru]] ([[User talk:Chen Keru|talk]]) 05:27, 7 June 2021 (UTC)

The next morning, Sister Phoenix went up early and left for the principal room. Then, Patience took the clothing outside in and prepared for the bed. To her surprise, a wisp of hair fell down from the pillow case. She understood instantly and hid it under her sleeves. Then she entered the room where Romance Merchant was in and took out that hair. She smiled to him: "What's this?" As soon as he saw it, he was about to rob it; however, Patience ran away, who was caught and pressed at the kang by him, and the hair in her hand was grabbed as well. Patience smiled: “You are a heartless creature! Out of kindness, I came to ask you without letting her know, but you pull a stunt like that. What will happen to you if I tell her?” Romance Merchant entreated her, smiling: "Fair girl, please do me a favour, I won't make an act of sheer bravado."

Before he could finish speaking, Sister Phoenix's voice came in, which put him into a dilemma whether to loose it or to clutch it. He cried: "Fair girl, do not let her know!" Sister Phoenix had entered when Patient rose up. Sister Phoenix ordered Patient: "Get the patterns out of that box for the mistress, quick." Patience promised quickly. When she was finding the patterns, Sister Phoenix saw Romance Merchant and she suddenly remembered something and asked Patience: "Have you taken in all the things that were taken out?" "Yes, I brought them all in." "Anything lost?" "I checked carefully and nothing disappeared." "Anything new appeared?" Patience smiled: "It is normal to check whether anything was lost, how could it be that anything new appears?" Sister Phoenix smiled: "For the past half month, it was difficult to make sure that nothing new appeared. Nobody can say sure that whether his lover outside left a ring, a scarf and so on." These words paled his face; he begged Patient to hide this for him behind Sister Phoenix.--[[User:Dai Muyu|Dai Muyu]] ([[User talk:Dai Muyu|talk]]) 07:57, 8 June 2021 (UTC)

=Dài Mùyǔ 戴沐雨=
平儿只作看不见，因笑道：“怎么
我的心就和奶奶一样！我就怕有这样的，留神搜了一搜，竟一点破绽也没有。
奶奶不信，亲自搜一搜。”凤姐笑道：“傻丫头，他便有这些东西，那里就叫咱们搜
着。”说着，拿了样子出去了。

平儿指着鼻子，摇着头儿，笑道：“这件事你该怎么谢我呢？”喜的贾琏眉开
眼笑，跑过来搂着，“心肝肠儿肉儿”乱叫。平儿手里拿着头发，笑道：“这是一
辈子的把柄儿。好就好，不好咱们就抖出这个来。”贾琏笑着央告道：“你好生
收着罢，千万可别叫他知道。”口里说着，瞅他不堤防，一把便抢过来，笑道：“你
拿着终是祸胎，不如我烧了，就完了事了。”一面说，面掖在靴掖子内。平儿咬
牙道：“没良心的，‘过了河儿就拆桥’，明儿还想我替你撒谎呢！”

贾琏见他娇俏动情，便搂着求欢，平儿夺手跑了出来，急的贾琏弯着腰恨
道：“死促狭小娼妇儿！一定浪上人的火来，他又跑了。”平儿在窗外笑道：“我
浪我的，谁叫你动火？难道图你受用，叫他知道了，又不代见我呀！”贾琏道：“你
不用怕他，等我性子上来，把这‘醋罐子’打个稀烂，他才认得我呢！他防我像
防贼似的．只许他同男人说话，不许我和女人说话。我和女人说话，略近些，他
就疑惑；他不论小叔子、侄儿、大的、小的，说说笑笑，就不怕我吃醋了。以后我
也不许他见人！”
Patience pretended not to see it and then smiled: “What a coincidence that what I thought was the same as yours. So I watched out for it especially to avoid such things, it turned out that there’s no flaw. If you don’t trust me, just search for it in person.” Splendid Phoenix King laughed: “My silly girl, if he does have those things, how could he tell us?” Saying this, she took the sample and walked out.

Patience pointed to the nose of Romance Merchant, with her head shaking, and said that: “How do you intend to thank me?” Romance Merchant was so joyful that his brows and eyes were curved, running to hug her and calling her “my sweet heart”, “my intestines”, and “my fleshes”. Holding hair in her hand, Patience smiled: “I could keep this handle for my whole life. If you treat me well, then I’ll keep your secret, otherwise I’m afraid I may not be able to keep it.” He then asked earnestly: “You just keep it well and don’t let her know.” At the time he said this, he grabbed it when she wandered, smiling: “Holding in your hands, it could be the disaster in the end. It will be much better if I burn it out.” Simultaneously he hided it in his sleeves. Gritting her teeth, Patience said: “You are just ungrateful, and you just kick down the ladder, I will never say one word for you.”

Witnessing her pretty, Romance Merchant hugged her for pleasure. Patience threw out his hands and ran away, letting him stoop and yelled: “What a whore you are! You are just profligate, attracting other’s attention and then dodging.” Patience laughed outside the window: “I am profligate by myself, who asks you to look at me? For your ability? Splendid Phoenix King would not tolerate me if she knew.” He replied: “You don’t need to fear her. Only when I take it seriously and break this “vinegar jar” can she realize my power. She guarded against me just as if I was a thief and she prohibited me from chatting to women but spoiling herself for talking with males. When I talked with women, if I stayed closer to them, she would think that I’ve done something bad; for her, she talked cheerfully with those uncles and nieces, juniors and seniors, ignoring my feelings. Anyway, I’ll limit the people she meet afterwards.”--[[User:Dai Muyu|Dai Muyu]] ([[User talk:Dai Muyu|talk]]) 15:43, 6 June 2021 (UTC)

Patience pretended not to see it and then laughed, “What a coincidence that what I thought was the same as what you thought. So I searched carefully, it turned out that there’s no flaw. If you don’t trust me, just search for it in person.” Splendid Phoenix King laughed, “My silly girl, if he does have those things, how could he let us detect it?” Saying this, she took the sample and walked out.

Patience pointed to the nose of Romance Merchant with a shaking head and said ,“How are you going to thank me for that?” Romance Merchant was so joyful that his brows and eyes were curved, running to hug her and calling her “my sweet heart”, “my intestines”, and “my fleshes”. Holding hair in her hand, Patience smiled: “I could keep this handle for my whole life. If you treat me well, then I’ll keep your secret, otherwise I’m afraid I may not be able to keep it.” He then asked earnestly: “You just keep it well and don’t let her know.” At the time he said this, he grabbed it when she wandered, smiling: “Holding in your hands, it could be the disaster in the end. It will be much better if I burn it out.” Simultaneously he hided it in his sleeves. Gritting her teeth, Patience said: “You are just ungrateful, and you just kick down the ladder, I will never say one word for you.”

Witnessing her pretty, Romance Merchant hugged her for pleasure. Patience threw out his hands and ran away, letting him stoop and yelled: “What a whore you are! You are just profligate, attracting other’s attention and then dodging.” Patience laughed outside the window: “I am profligate by myself, who asks you to look at me? For your ability? Splendid Phoenix King would not tolerate me if she knew.” He replied: “You don’t need to fear her. Only when I take it seriously and break this “vinegar jar” can she realize my power. She guarded against me just as if I was a thief and she prohibited me from chatting to women but spoiling herself for talking with males. When I talked with women, if I stayed closer to them, she would think that I’ve done something bad; for her, she talked cheerfully with those uncles and nieces, juniors and seniors, ignoring my feelings. Anyway, I’ll limit the people she meet afterwards.”--[[User:Deng Dan1|Deng Dan1]] ([[User talk:Deng Dan1|talk]]) 09:18, 9 June 2021 (UTC)

=Dèng Dān 邓丹=
平儿道：“他醋你使得，你醋他使不得，他原行的正，走的正，你
行动便有坏心，连我也不放心，别说他呀。”贾琏道：“你两个一口贼气！都是你
们行得是，我凡行动都存坏心。多早晚才叫你们都死在我手里呢！”

一句未了，凤姐走进院来，因见平儿在窗外，就问道：“要说话，怎么不在屋
里，跑出来隔着窗子，是什么意思？”贾琏在内接嘴道：“你可问他，倒像屋里有老
虎吃他呢！”平儿道：“屋里一个人没有，我在他跟前作什么？”凤姐笑道：“正是
没人才好呢。”平儿听说，便道：“这话是说我么？”凤姐便笑道：“不说你说谁？”
平儿道：“别叫我说出好话来了。”说着，也不打帘子，一径往那边去了。

凤姐自掀帘子进来，说道：“平儿丫头疯魔了，这蹄子认真要降伏起我来
了，仔细你的皮要紧！”贾琏听了，倒在炕上，拍手笑道：“我竟不知平儿这么利
害，从此倒服了他了。”凤姐道：“都是你兴的他，我只和你算帐就完了。”贾琏听
了啐道：“你两个不睦，又拿我来垫喘儿，我躲开你们。”凤姐道：“我看你躲到那
里击。”贾琏道：“我有处去。”说着就走，凤姐道：“你别走，我有话和你说呢。”不
知何事，且听下回分解。

Patience said,“She’s right to be jealous of you, but you’re wrong to be jealous of her.”“She has done nothing wrong. But you bear malice in your minid. Even I wouldn’t trust you.”“You two are in the same team. All you two do is right, all I do is wrong. Sooner or later I’ll avenge myself on what you've done on me.”
When he was speaking, Splendid Phoenix King walked into the yard. Seeing Patience at the window,she asked, “Why not talk in the room? Why run out of the room to shout through the window? What do you mean?”Jia Lian replied from the room,“she acts as if there's a tiger in the room determining to eat her."
“There's no one else in the room. Why should I stay there alone with him?” asked Patience.“That's fine”, Splendid Phoenix King smiled.“Is that remark aimed at me?”“Who else?” Splendid Phoenix King laughed.“Don’t make me say something you’ll be sorry for!” Instead of raising the door curtain, Patience went straight and left the room. Splendid Phoenix King raised the curtain herself and remarked, “The girl must be crazy, trying to threaten me. You’d better watch out!”“I never knew Patience could be so crazy,” Romance Merchant crowed, clapping his hands. “I've been convinced by her.”Romance Merchant had fallen back laughing on a heatable brick bed.“It’s you who’ve spoiled her. I'll hold you responsible.”“You can't get along well with her, why put the blame on me? I’d better make myself stay away from you", said Romance Merchant. “Where are you going?”“I will go somewhere pleasant”,replied Romance Merchant.“Wait,” said Splendid Phoenix King. “There’s something I'd like to talk with you.” To know what it was, read the next chapter.--[[User:Deng Dan1|Deng Dan1]] ([[User talk:Deng Dan1|talk]]) 08:30, 9 June 2021 (UTC)

You two are in the same team now . All your guys do is right, all I do is wrong. Sooner or later I’ll avenge myself on what you've done on me.”
When he was speaking, Splendid Phoenix King walked into the yard. Seeing Patience at the window,she asked, “Why not talk in the room? Why run out of the room to shout through the window? What do you mean?”Jia Lian replied from the room,“she acts as if there's a tiger in the room determining to eat her."
“There's no one else in the room. Why should I stay there alone with him?” asked Patience.“That's fine”, Splendid Phoenix King smiled.“Is that remark aimed at me?”“Who else?” Splendid Phoenix King laughed.“Don’t make me say something you’ll be sorry for!” Instead of raising the door curtain, Patience went straight and left the room. Splendid Phoenix King raised the curtain herself and remarked, “The girl must be crazy, even trying to threaten me. I think you’d better watch out!”“I never knew Patience could be such a crazy person!” --[[User:Ding Zhongxia|Ding Zhongxia]] ([[User talk:Ding Zhongxia|talk]]) 09:17, 9 June 2021 (UTC)Ding Zhongxia

=Dīng Zhòngxià 丁仲夏=
◎第二十二回听曲文宝玉悟禅机制灯谜贾政悲谶语

话说贾琏听凤姐儿说有话商量，因止步问：“是何话？”凤姐道：“二十一是
薛妹妹的生日，你到底怎么样？”贾琏道：“我知道怎么样？你连多少大生日都
料理过了，这会子倒没有主意了。”凤姐道：“大生日是有一定的则例。如今他
这生日，大又不是，小又不是，所以和你商量。”贾琏听了，低头想了半日，道：“你
竟糊涂了！现有比例，那林妹妹就是例。往年怎么给林妹妹做的，如今也照样
给薛妹妹做就是了。”凤姐听了冷笑道：“我难道这个也不知道？我原也这么想
定了。但昨日听见老太太说，问起大家的年纪生日来，听见薛大妹妹今年十五
岁，虽不是整生日，也算得将笄之年。老太太说要替他做生日，自然与往年给林
妹妹的不同了。”贾琏道：“既如此，就比林妹妹的多增些。”凤姐道：“我也这么
想着，所以讨你的口气。我若私自添了东西，你又怪我不告诉明白你了。”贾琏
笑道：“罢，罢！这空头情我不领；你不盘察我，就够了，我还怪你？”说着，一径去
了，不在话下。

Hearing that Splendid Phoenix King wanted to consult him about something, Jia Lian stopped to ask what it was.“It’s Baochai’s birthday on the twenty-first,” she said. “What do you intend to do about it?”“Why ask me that?” he retorted. “You’ve handled plenty of big birthday celebrations. Why can’t you cope with this?”“For big birthdays there are definite rules but this is neither big nor small, that’s why I wanted your advice.”He lowered his head to think before answering. “You’re losing your grip,” he said after a pause. “There’s a precedent in Baiyu’s birthday. Just celebrate this the same way.”“As if that hadn’t occurred to me too!” Splendid Phoenix King smiled mockingly. “But yesterday the old lady told me she’d been asking everybody’s age and learned that Baochai would be fifteen this year, and although that’s not a round number it means she’s reached marriageable age.If the old lady wants to celebrate her birthday specially, it’ll have to be different from Daiyu’s in the past.”“In that case, have things on a more lavish scale.”“That’s what I thought, but I wanted to sound you out so as not to be blamed for doing something extra on my own initiative without consulting you.”“Well, well! Why this sudden show of consideration? Me blame you? I’m quite satisfied if you don’t find fault with me.” With that he left, but where he went does not concern us.--[[User:Ding Zhongxia|Ding Zhongxia]] ([[User talk:Ding Zhongxia|talk]]) 09:16, 9 June 2021 (UTC)Ding Zhongxia

=Dù Xīnyǔ 杜心语=
且说史湘云住了两日，因要回去，贾母因说：“等过了你宝姐姐的生日，看
了戏，再回去。”史湘云听了，只得住下，又一面遣人回去，将自己旧日作的两件
针线活计取来，为宝钗生辰之仪。

谁想贾母自见宝钗来了，喜他稳重和平，正值他才过第一个生辰，便自己
捐资二十两，唤了凤姐来，交与他备酒戏。凤姐凑趣，笑道：“一个老祖宗，给孩
子们作生日，不拘怎样，谁还敢争？又办什么酒席。既高兴，要热闹，就说不得
自己花费几两老库里的体己。这早晚找出这霉烂的二十两银子来做东，意思还
叫我们赔上。果然拿不出来，也罢了；金的、银的、圆的、扁的，压塌了箱子底，只
是累掯们。举眼看看，谁不是你老人家的儿女？难道将来只有宝兄弟顶你老
人家上五台山不成？那些东西只留与他，我们如今虽不配使，也别苦了我们。
这个够酒的？够戏的？”说的满屋里都笑起来。贾母亦笑道：“你们听听这嘴！
我也算会说的了，怎么说不过这猴儿？你婆婆也不敢强嘴，你就和我‘??’啊
‘??’的。”凤姐笑道：“我婆婆也是一样的疼宝玉，我也没处去诉冤，倒说我强
嘴！”说着，又引贾母笑了一会。贾母十分喜悦。

After living in Jia's house for two days, Fragrant-cloud History was about to go back. Grandma Merchant said, "after Precious Jade Merchant's birthday, after watching the opera, I'll go back." After hearing this, Fragrant-cloud History had to stay. On the other hand, she sent someone back to take two pieces of needlework she had done before as Precious Jade Merchant's birthday gift.

But she never thought that when Precious Jade Merchant came, his grandmother liked his stable and peaceful character. On his first birthday in Jia's house, she paid 20 Liang for Splendid Phoenix King to prepare for his birthday party and opera. Splendid Phoenix King said with a smile: "an old ancestor celebrates children's birthday. No matter what, who dares to argue? What else is the banquet. As long as you are happy and lively, how much money can't you take out of your wallet? Sooner or later, if we can find out the rotten twenty taels of silver to be the host, there is no reason for us to compensate. If you can't get the money out, you can forget it; But gold, silver, round, flat money, I'm afraid it will collapse the bottom of the box, push together, do not want to take it out. Look up, who is not your son and daughter? Can only Precious Jade Merchant carry you to WUBAOSHAN in the future? The legacy is only left to him. Although we are not qualified now, don't let us suffer. Is this enough for opera singers? " All the talk made the house laugh. "Listen to this," Grandma Merchant said with a smile ”I can say it. How can I not say this man? Your mother-in-law dare not answer back. " Splendid Phoenix King said with a smile, "my mother-in-law loves Precious Jade Merchant the same way. I have no place to complain. Instead, you say I have to fight back!" She said, and made the lady laugh for a while. Grandma Merchant was very happy.

=Guō Yàbō 郭亚波=
到晚上，众人都在贾母前，定省之余，大家娘儿姊妹等说笑时，贾母因问宝
钗爱听何戏，爱吃何物。宝钗深知贾母年老人，喜热闹戏文，爱吃甜烂之物，便
总依贾母素喜者说了一遍，贾母更加喜欢。次日，先送过衣服玩物去，王夫人、
凤姐、黛玉等诸人皆有随分的，不须细说。

至二十一日，就贾母内院搭了家常小巧戏台，定了一班新出小戏，昆弋两
腔俱有。就在贾母上房摆了几席家宴酒席，并无一个外客，只有薛姨妈、史湘
云、宝钗是客，余者皆是自己人。这日早起，宝玉因不见黛玉，便到他房中来寻。
只见黛玉歪在炕上，宝玉笑道：“起来吃饭去，就开戏了，你爱听那一出，我好
点。”黛玉冷笑道：“你既这样说，你就特叫一班戏，拣我爱的唱与我听，这会子犯
不上借着光儿问我。”宝玉笑道：“这有什么难的，明儿就这样行，也叫他们借着
咱们的光儿。”一面说，一面拉他起来，携手出去。

吃了饭，点戏时，贾母一面先叫宝钗点，宝钗推让一遍，无法，只得点了一折
《西游记》。贾母自是欢喜。然后使命凤姐点。凤姐虽有王夫人在前，但因贾
母之命，不敢违拗；且知贾母喜热闹，更喜谑笑科诨，便先点了一出，却是《刘二
当衣》。贾母果真更又喜欢。然后使命黛玉点，黛玉又让王夫人等先点。

That night, after the family had gathered to pay their evening respects to the Grandma Merchant and then gone on to chat, she asked Precious Haipin to name her favourite operas and dishes. Knowing the old lady’s partiality for lively shows and sweet, pappy food, Precious Haipin gave these as her own preferences, adding even more to the Grandma Merchant’s pleasure. The first thing next day she had presents of clothing and trinkets sent to the girl. Lady King, Splendid Phoenix, Mascara Jade and the others also sent theirs according to the status of each. But these need not be enumerated in detail. On the twenty-first a small stage was set up in the Grandma Merchant’s inner courtyard and a new troupe of young actresses had been hired who were able to perform both Kunqu and Yiyang operas. Tables were laid in the hail for a family feast, to which no outsiders were asked: apart from Aunt Marshgrass, Fragrant-cloud and Precious Haipin, who were guests, all the rest would be members of the family. Not seeing Mascara Jade that morning, Precious Jade went to look for her and found her curled up on her kang. “Come on to breakfast,” he said, “The show will soon be starting. Tell me which opera you’d like and I’ll ask for it.” Mascara Jade smiled disdainfully: “If that’s how you feel, you’d better hire a special company to play my favourite pieces instead of expecting me to cash in on someone else’s birthday.” “That’s easy, we’ll hire a company next time and let the rest of them cash in on us. He pulled her up and they went off hand in hand. After breakfast it was time to choose the plays and the Grandma Merchant called on Precious Haipin to name her choice. The girl declined the honour at first but finally, to the old lady’s delight, named a scene from Pilgrimage to the West. Next, Splendid Phoenix was ordered to take her pick. And knowing the old lady’s liking for lively plays, especially comedies and burlesques, she pleased her even more by selecting Liu Er Pawns His Clothes. Mascara Jade, told to choose next, deferred to Aunt Marshgrass and Lady King.

=Huáng Fāngfāng 黄芳芳=
贾母道：“今儿原是我特带着你们取乐，咱们只管咱们的，别理他们。我巴巴的唱戏
摆酒，为他们不成？他们在这里白听，白吃，已经便宜了，还让他们点戏呢！”说
着，大家都笑。黛玉方点了一出。然后宝玉、史湘云、迎春、探春、惜春、李纨等
俱各点了，按出扮演。

至上酒席时，贾母又命宝钗点，宝钗点了一出《鲁智深醉闹五台山》。宝玉
道：‘你只好点这些戏。”宝钗道：“你白听了这几年戏，那里知道这出戏的好处？
排场又好，词藻更妙。”宝玉道：“我从来怕这些热闹戏。”宝钗笑道：“要说这一
出‘热闹’，还算你不知戏呢。你过来，我告诉你，这一出戏是一套‘北点绛唇’，
铿锵顿挫，那音律不用说是好的了；只那词藻中，有一只‘寄生草’，填得极妙，你
何曾知道！”宝玉见说的这般好，便凑近来央告：“好姐姐，念与我听听。”宝钗便
念道：
漫揾英雄泪，相离处士家。谢慈悲，剃度在莲台下。没缘法，转眼分
离乍。赤条条，来去无牵挂。那里讨，烟蓑雨笠卷单行？一任俺，芒鞋破
钵随缘化！

Grandma Merchant said:" I was going to let you have fun. So let's focus on our happiness and let them alone. Don't I order others to sing operas and prepare a meal for them? They have taken advantage of listening and eating freely here. They even are allowed to order plays." People all laughed when Grandma Merchant was talking. Then Mascara Jade ordered one play. Precious Jade, Fragrant-cloud History, Spring Pleasure, Seeking-Spring, Cherishing Spring, and Silk Plum followed her to order some plays. Opera singers performed with the orders.

When the meal was served, Grandma Merchant had Precious Hairpin to order another more play. Precious Hairpin ordered the play, Drunken Intelligent Savage' trick on the Five Stages Mountain. Precious Jade said:" You order plays like only this kind of plays." Precious Hairpin replied:" You have listened opera plays in vain these years. Aren't you sure about the advantages of this play. It was well arranged and had flowery language." Precious Jade said:" I have ever been afraid of such lively opera plays." Precious Hairpin said with a smile:" If you say this is lively one, you still don't have a good knowledge of the play. Come here. I tell you that the play is ＇Crimson the Lips of the North Point＇, which is sonorous and resonant, and whose rhythm is good undoubtedly. There is a ＇Parasitic Weed ＇ in its phrases. It was wonderfully filled and you never know it!" Hearing that it was thought highly, Precious Jade came closed to her and begged her:" Good sister, please you read it for me." Precious Hairpin read:" Weeping my tears for the moment, I leave my close friend's home. Giving thanks to Bodhisattva's mercy, I can have my head shaved under the Lotus Platform. Having no karma, we have to break up. I am alone with nothing. I am free from care to come and go. Where can I find a kind of life where I can go anywhere if I want？ Let me wear a pair of straw sandals and bring a broken plate with me to travel around the world with fate."

=Huáng Lìpèi 黄沥霈=
宝玉听了，喜的拍膝摇头，称赏不已，又赞宝钗无书不知。林黛玉道：“安静看戏
罢！还没唱《山门》，你就《妆疯》了。”说的湘云也笑了。于是大家看戏，到晚方
散。

贾母探爱那做小旦的与一个做小丑的，因命人带进来，细看时，益发可怜
见。因问年纪，那小旦才十一岁，小丑才九岁，大家叹息了一回。贾母令人另拿
些肉果与他两个，又另赏钱两吊。凤姐笑道：“这个孩子扮上活像一个人，你们
再看不出。”宝钗心内也知道，却点点头不说；宝玉也点了点头，亦不敢说。史湘
云便接口道：“倒像林姐蛆的模样。”宝玉听了，忙把湘云瞅了一眼．使个眼色，众
人听了这话，留神细看，都笑起来了，说“果然像得狠！”一时散了。

晚问，湘云便命翠缕把衣包收拾了，翠缕道：“忙什么？等去的那日包也不
迟。”湘云道：“明早就走，还在这里做什么？看人家的嘴脸！”宝玉听了这话，忙
近前说道：“好妹妹，你错怪了我。林妹妹是个多心的人。别人分明知道，不肯
说出来，也皆因怕他恼。谁知你不防头就说了出来，他岂不恼？我怕你得罪了
人，所以才使眼色。你这会子恼了我，岂不辜负了我？若是别个，那怕他得罪了
十个人，与我何干呢！”

As soon as Precious Jade had listened to Precious Hairpin's recital, he was joyful that clapping his knees with his hands and shaking his head, he has lauded her recital and then he told Precious Hairpin, saying: "There is no book that you don't know!" "Be quiet! and listen to the play," Mascara Jade Forest urged, "they haven't sung about the 'mountain gate' yet and you already 'pretend to be mad'!" At these words, Fragrant-cloud also laughed. Therefore, the whole party watched the performance until evening and they broke up.

Grandma Merchant was so much into the young actor who played the role of a lady as well as the one who acted as a buffoon, so she gave orders to bring them in, and as she looked them closely, she felt much more interest on them, then she went on to inquire what their ages were. When the actor who played the role as a lady replied that he was just eleven while the other one was just nine. The whole party gave an expression of sympathy for them. Then, Grandma Merchant let servants to bring some fresh fruits and meats for both of them and also gave them two tiaos as a present apart from their wages. “This young actor looks like a certain person when he dressed up as a girl, did you notice it?" Lady Phoenix observed and smiled. Precious Hairpin was also aware of the fact, but she simply nodded her head and did not say who it was. Precious Jade— shaking his head — did not presume to speak out. However, Fragrant-cloud History readily took up the conversation. She interposed, "He resembles Cousin Forest's face!" When this remark reached Precious Jade's ear, he casted an angry scowl at Fragrant-cloud and to make her a sign, while the whole party indulged in careful of the young actor after hearing what had been said and they began to laugh: "They really look alike!" they exclaimed. After a while, they parted.

When evening came, Fragrant-cloud directed Kingfisher to pack up her clothes. " What is in the hurry?" Kingfisher asked, " they will have time to pack up on the day we left." "We will left tomorrow morning," Fragrant-cloud rejoined, "for what the point is to stay here and have to look at people's mouths and faces!" At these words, Precious Jade pressed forward and urged: "My dear cousin, you are wrong in bearing me a grudge! Cousin Forest is a girl that very touchy, so though one else distinctly knew the answer and they wouldn't speak out and all because they were afraid that she would be angry but you came out with unexpectedly, at that moment when off your guard, how couldn't she not feel hurt? It was also because I was afraid that you would given offence to other people so I winked at you and now here you are angry at me, wasn't that being ungrateful to me? Had it been anyone else, would I care whether she had given ofeence to even ten, and that would had been none of my business!"

=Huáng Xiàolán 黄笑兰=
湘云摔手道：“你那花言巧语，别望着我说。我也原不如
你林妹妹，别人拿他取笑都使得，只我说了就有不是。我原不配说他，他是主子
小姐，我是奴才丫头，得罪丁他了。”宝玉急的说道：“我倒是为你为出不是来了。
我要有坏心，立刻化成灰，教万人践踏！”湘云道：“大正月里，少信口胡说这些没
要紧的恶誓散语歪话！说给那些小性儿、行动爱恼人、会辖治你的人听去！别
叫我啐你。”说着，至贾母里间屋里，忿忿的躺着去了。

宝玉没趣，只得又来寻黛玉。谁知才进门，便被黛玉推出来，将门关了。
宝玉又不解何故，在窗外只是低声叫：“好妹妹。”黛玉总不理他。宝玉闷闷的
垂头不语。袭人早知端的，当此时，再不能劝。

那宝玉只呆呆的站着。黛玉只当他回去了，却开了门，只见宝玉还站在那
里。黛玉不好再闭门，宝玉因随进来，问道：“凡事都有个原故，说来，人也不委
屈。好好的就恼了，到底是为什么起？”黛玉冷笑道：“问的我倒好，我也不知为
什么。我原是给你们取笑的？拿着我比戏子，给众人取笑。”宝玉道：“我并没
有比你，也并没有笑你，为什么恼我呢？”黛玉道：“你还要比？你还要笑？你不
比不笑，比人家比了笑了的还利害呢！”宝玉听说，无可分辩。

Fragrant-cloud waved him crossly away. "Don't try to get round me with your flattering talk. I'm not in the same class as your Cousin Mascara Jade. It's all right for other people to make fun of her, but I'm not even allowed to mention her. She's a grand young lady, I'm a slave-how dare I offend her?" "I was only thinking of you, yet now you put me in the wrong." Precious Jade was desperate. "If I meant any harm, may I tum into dust this instant and be trampled on by ten thousand feet!" "Stop talking such nonsense just after the New Year. Or go and rave if you must to those petty-minded creatures who are so quick to take offence, and who know how to manage you. Don't make me spit at you!" She flounced off to the Lady Dowager's inner room and threw herself down angrily on a couch.

After this snub Precious Jade went to look for Mascara Jade, but scarcely had he set foot in her room than she pushed him out and closed the door in his face. Mystified, he called in a subdued voice through the window: "Dear cousin!" But Mascara Jade simply ignored him. He hung his head then in dejected silence. Aroma knew it would be useless to reason with him just then.

So he was standing there like a fool when Mascara Jade opened the door, thinking him gone. When she saw him still standing there, she hadn't the heart to shut him out again. She turned away and curled up on her bed, while he followed her into the room. "There's always a reason for everything," he said. "If you'd explain, people wouldn't feel so hurt. What's upset you suddenly?" "A fine question to ask!" Mascara Jade gave a short laugh. "I don't know. For you I'm a figure of fun, to be compared with an actress in order to raise a laugh. " "But why be angry with me? I didn't make the comparison. I didn't laugh. " "I should hope not, indeed! But what you did was even worse than the others laughing and making comparisons." Precious Jade did not know how to defend himself and was silent.

=Huáng Zǐlóng 黄梓龙 Mr.=
黛玉又道：“这一
节还可恕。再者，你为什么又和云儿使眼色？这安的是什么心？莫不是他和我
玩，他就自轻自贱了？他是公侯的小姐，我原是贫民家的丫头。他和我玩，设如
我回了口，岂不是他自惹轻贱？你是这个主意不是？你却也是好心，只是那一
个不领你的情，一般也恼了。你又拿我作情，倒说我‘小性儿，行动肯恼人’。
你又怕他得罪了我，我恼他，与你何于？他得罪了我，又与你何干？”

宝玉听了，知方才与湘云私谈，他也听见了。细想自己原为怕他二人生
隙，故在中间调停，不料自已反落了两处的贬谤，正与前日所看《南华经》内：
“巧者劳而智者忧，无能者无所求，蔬食而邀游，泛若不系之舟。”又曰：“山木自
寇，源泉自盗”等句，因此越想越无趣；再细想来：“如今不过这几个人，尚不能应
酬妥协，将来犹欲何为？”想到其间，也无庸分辩，自己转身回房。林黛玉见他去
了，便知回思无趣，赌气去了，一言也不曾发，不禁自己越舔了气，便说：“这一
去，一辈子也别来了，也别说话！”

那宝玉不理，竟回来，躺在床上，只是闷嗗咄的。

"I wouldn't have minded so much if you hadn't made eyes at Fragrant-cloud," Mascara Jade went on. "Just what did you mean by that?" That she would lower and cheapen herself by joking with me? She is a daughter of a noble house, I'm a nobody. If she were to joke with me and i answered back, that would be degrading for her- was that the idea? That was certainly kind of your part. Too bad she didn't appreciate your thoughtfulness but flared up all the same. Then you tried to excuse yourself at my expense,calling me 'pretty-minded and quick to take offence." You were afraid she might offend me, were you? But what is it to you if I ger angry with her? Or if she offends me?"

Precious Jade realized that she had overheard his conversation with Fragrant-cloud. He had intervened in an attempt to prevent bad feeling between them but, having failed, was now held to blame by both sides. This reminded him of the passage in Zhuangzi:"The ingenious work hard, the wise are full of care; but those without ability have no ambition. They enjoy thir food and wander at will like drifting boats freed form their moorings." And again:" Mountain trees are the first to be falled, clear fountains the first to be consumed." The more he thought the more depressed he grew. "If I can't even cope now with just these two, what will it be like in the future?" he reflected. At this point it seemed quite useless to attempt to justify himself, so he started back to his room.Mascara Jade realized that he must be very dejected by what had occurred to go off so sulkily without a word. But this only made her angrier than ever." Go then!" she cried." And don't ever come back! Don't speak to me again!"

Precious Jade paid no attention. Returning to his room, he lay down on his bed starting fixedly before him.

"I wouldn't have minded so much if you hadn't made eyes at Fragrant-cloud," Mascara Jade went on. "Just what did you mean? That she would lower and cheapen herself because of playing with me? She is a noble young lady, but I'm only the poor. If she were to play with me and I answered back, that would degrade for her.This is your meaning! You are certainly kind, but she didn't appreciate your thoughtfulness, and flared up all the same. Then you tried to excuse yourself at my expense,calling me pretty-minded and quick to take offence." You were afraid she might offend me, were you? But what is it to you if I get angry with her? Or if she offends me?"

Precious Jade realized that she had overheard their conversation. His aim is to solve contradiction between them but was now held to blame by them. This reminded him of the passage in Zhuangzi:"The ingenious work hard, the wise are full of care; but those without ability have no ambition. They enjoy their food and wander at will like drifting boats freed form their moorings." And again:" Mountain trees are the first to be fell, clear fountains the first to be consumed." The more he thought the more depressed he grew. "If I can't even cope now with just these two, what will it be like in the future?" he reflected. At this point it seemed quite useless to attempt to justify himself, so he started back to his room.Mascara Jade realized that he must be very dejected by what had occurred to go off so sulkily without a word. But this only made her angrier than ever." Go then!" she cried." And don't ever come back! Don't speak to me again!"

Precious Jade had no response, and returned to his room,laid down on his bed starting fixedly before him. ——Li Yihao

=Lǐ Yìhào 李艺浩=
袭人深知原委，不敢就说，只得以他事来解说，因笑道：“今儿看了戏，又勾出几天戏来。宝姑娘一定要还席呢。”宝玉冷笑道：“他还不还，与我什么相干？”袭人见这话不似往日口吻，因又笑道：“这是怎么说？好好的大正月里，娘儿们姊妹们都喜喜欢欢，你又怎么这个行景了？”宝玉冷笑道：“他们娘儿们姊妹们欢喜不欢喜，也与我无干。”袭人笑道：“他们随和，你也随和些，岂不喜欢？”宝玉道：“什么‘大家彼此’？他们有‘大家彼此’，我只是赤条条无牵挂的。”言及此句，不觉泪下。袭人见此景况，不敢再说。宝玉细想这一句意味，不禁大哭起来，翻身站起来，至案边，提笔立占一偈云：
你证我证，心证意证。是无有证，斯可云证。无可云证，是立足境。写毕，自己虽解悟，又恐人看此不解，因又填一只“寄生草”，写在偈后。又念一过，自觉心中无有挂碍，便上床睡了。谁知黛玉见宝玉此番果断而去，假以寻袭人为由，来视动静。袭人回道：“已经睡了。”黛玉听了，就欲回去，袭人笑道：“姑娘请站着，有一个字帖儿，瞧瞧是什么话。”便将宝玉方才所写的与黛玉看。
Aroma knew the reasons, but she feared speaking out, so explained other things. So she smiled,"I saw the play today,and I will space several other days to see play. Precious Hairpin Marshgrass must come." Precious Jade Merchant sneered: "Whether she come or not come, it is matter for me?" Aroma felt the words did not seem to be his usual tone, so she laughed again, "Why did you say that? In the first lunar month, the ladies and sisters are all happy. Why do you do this?" Precious Jade Merchant sneered, "It is nothing to do with me whether your ladies or sisters are happy or not." Aroma said with a smile, "They will be easygoing, and you will be easygoing. And you all are happy together?" Precious Jade Merchant said, "Each other? They have intimate relationship but I'm just excluded and have no relationship with them." While Speaking of this sentence, he can't help crying. Seeing this, Aroma dare not say anything any more. Thinking over the meaning of his words,burst into tears, turned to his feet, went to the table, picked up his pen and wrote a verse:
You think you know it, I think I know it, but it is only through the communion of the heart that the true understanding can be achieved. When there is no more understanding, it can be said to be truly thorough consciousness. The highest state of thought is reached when there is no more need to be tested. After writing this poem, although he understood it, he was afraid that others would not understand it, so he added a "parasitic grass" after the chapter. After reading it again, he felt that he was relaxed and went to asleep. It is beyond imagination that Mascara Jade Forest saw Precious Jade Merchant decisively left. So she pretended to seek to Aroma but in fact to see Precious Jade Merchant. Aroma replied, "He has been already asleep." Hearing this, Mascara Jade Forest wanted to go back, but Aroma said with a smile, "Girl, please stand here. I have a post and would like you see what it is." Then Aroma read to Mascara Jade Forest what Precious Jade Merchant had just written.

Aroma knew the reasons, but she feared speaking out, so explained other things. So she smiled, "I saw the play today, and I will space several other days to see the play. Precious Hairpin Marshgrass must come." Precious Jade Merchant sneered: "Whether she come or not come, it is a matter for me?" Aroma felt the words did not seem to be his usual tone, so she beamed again: "Why did you say that? In the first lunar month, the ladies and sisters are all happy. Why do you do this?" Precious Jade Merchant sneered, "It is nothing to do with me whether your ladies or sisters are happy or not." Aroma said with a smile, "They will be easygoing, and you will be easygoing. And you all are happy together?" Precious Jade Merchant said: "Each other? They have an intimate relationship but I'm just excluded and have no relationship with them." While Speaking of this sentence, he can't help crying. Seeing this, Aroma dare not say anything anymore. Thinking over the meaning of his words, burst into tears, turned to his feet, went to the table, picked up his pen, and wrote a verse:
You think you know it, I think I know it, but it is only through the communion of the heart that the true understanding can be achieved. When there is no more understanding, it can be said to be truly thorough consciousness. The highest state of thought is reached when there is no more need to be tested. After writing this poem, although he understood it, he was afraid that others would not understand it, so he added a "parasitic grass" after the chapter. After reading it again, he felt that he was relaxed and went to sleep. It is beyond imagination that Mascara Jade Forest saw Precious Jade Merchant decisively left. So she pretended to seek Aroma but in fact to see Precious Jade Merchant. Aroma replied, "He has been already asleep." Hearing this, Mascara Jade Forest wanted to go back, but Aroma said with a smile: "Miss, please stand here. I have a post and would like you to see what it is." Then Aroma read what Precious Jade Merchant had just written to Mascara Jade Forest.--[[User:Liu Tingyang|Liu Tingyang]] ([[User talk:Liu Tingyang|talk]]) 13:23, 14 June 2021 (UTC)

=Liú Tíngyáng 刘廷阳=
黛玉看了，知宝玉为一时感忿
而作，不觉可笑可叹。便向袭人道：“作的是个玩意儿，无甚关系。”说毕，便拿了
回房去，与湘云同看。次日，又与宝钗看，宝钗念其词曰：

无我原非你，从他不解伊。肆行无碍凭来去。茫茫着甚悲愁喜，纷纷
说甚亲疏密？从前碌碌却因何？到如今，目头试想真无趣！
看毕，又看那偈语，又笑道：“这个人悟了。都是我的不是，是我昨儿一支曲子惹
出来的。这些道书机锋，最能移性，明几认真起来，说些疯话，存了这个念头，岂
不是从我这一支曲子起？我成了个罪魁了。”说着，便撕了个粉碎，递与丫头们，
叫：“快烧了。”黛玉笑道：“不该撕了，等我问他。你们跟我来，包管叫他收了这
个痴心邪说。”

三人果往宝玉屋里来。黛玉先笑道：“宝玉，我问你：至贵者‘宝’，至坚者
‘玉’。尔有何贵？尔有何坚？宝玉竟不能答。二人笑道：“这样愚钝，还参禅
呢！”湘云也拍手笑道：“宝哥哥可输了！”黛玉又道：“你那偈末云，‘无可云证，
是立足境’，固然好了，只是据我看来，还未尽善。我还续两句在后。”因念云：
“无立足境，方是干净。”

Daiyu watched, and knows that it was baoyu’s work with angry, so she smiled and plaint. And she said to Xiren: " Well it's an interesting thing, just let him go." After that, she took it back to her room and read it again with Xiangyun. The next day, she brought it to Baochai, who reads it aloud:
We are different, and also he doesn't understand you. Running freely in my way. Wondering, what’s my sadness and happiness? Why am I so busy? Until now, everything is boring to think about!” After reading it and review it, Baochai laughed again: "This man got it. It's all my mistakes for I played a tune yesterday. These Taoist songs are the most translatable things to a person’s personality. If he takes it seriously, speaks some crazy words, and save such ideas, I've become the original criminal."As she said, baochai tore it to pieces, handed it to servant girls, and said："Burn it up, hurry up." "No, you shouldn’t tear it. Wait, I’ll ask him. Come with me, he will not say that again."Daiyu said with a smile.
Consequently, these three girls came up to Baoyu’s room. Daiyu smiled first, and said: “Baoyu, let me ask you a question. The most expensive thing is treasure, and the hardest thing is jade. Where is the expensive or hard part of you? ” Baoyu didn’t know how to answer. Daiyu and Baochai laughed and said to him: “ You are so fool to awaken! ” Xiangyun laughed with clapping hand and said: “ Brother Jade is the loser!” Daiyu made a comment again: “ The last part of your maxim says, ‘ there’s no evident to support, so to support it with practice.’ It’s not bad, but in my opinion, it doesn’t good enough. I want to add two sentences, ‘If there’s no practice, there’s no everything.’”--[[User:Liu Tingyang|Liu Tingyang]] ([[User talk:Liu Tingyang|talk]]) 04:48, 7 June 2021 (UTC)

Mascara Jade watched, and knows that it was Precious Jade's work with angry, so she didn't think it deserved smiling at and appreciating. And she said to Aroma: " Well it's an interesting thing, just let him go." After that, she took it back to her room and read it again with Fragrant-cloud. The next day, she brought it to Precious Hairpin, who read it aloud:

We are different, and also he doesn't understand you. Running freely in my way. Wondering, what’s my sadness and happiness? What's closeness and distance? What was I busy for before? Until now, everything is boring to think about!” After reading it and the Buddhist verse, Precious Hairpin laughed again: "This man got a sudden enlightenment. It's all my fault to play that tune yesterday. These Taoist songs are the most translatable things to a person’s personality. If he takes it seriously, speaks some crazy words, and keeps such ideas, I will become the original criminal."As she said, Precious Hairpin tore it into pieces, handed it to servant girls, and said："Burn them up, hurry up." "No, you shouldn’t tear it. Wait, I’ll ask him. Come with me. He will not have such ideas again."Mascara Jade said with a smile.

Consequently, these three girls came up to Precious Jade’s room directly. Mascara Jade smiled first, and said: “Precious Jade, let me ask you a question. The most expensive thing is treasure, and the hardest thing is jade. Where is the expensive or hard part of you? ” Precious Jade didn’t know how to answer. Mascara Jade and Precious Hairpin laughed and said to him: “ You are so fool to practice meditation! ” Fragrant-cloud laughed with clapping hands and said: “ Brother Jade is the loser!” Mascara Jade made a comment again: “ The last part of your verse says, ‘ there’s no evident to support, so to support it with practice.’ It’s not bad, but in my opinion, it is not good enough. I want to add two sentences after them, ‘If there’s no practice, there’s nothing.’”--[[User:Liu Zhuofan|Liu Zhuofan]] ([[User talk:Liu Zhuofan|talk]]) 09:35, 8 June 2021 (UTC)

=Liú Zhuōfán 刘卓凡 Mr.=
宝钗道：“实在这方悟彻。当日南宗六祖惠能，初寻师
至韶州，闻五祖宏忍在黄梅，他便充役火头僧。五祖欲求法嗣，令徒弟请僧各出
一偈，上座神秀说道：‘身是菩提树，心如明镜台；时时勤拂拭，莫使有尘埃。’彼
时惠能在厨房舂米，听了这偈说道：‘美则美矣．了则未了。’因自念一偈日：‘菩
提本非树，明镜亦非台；本来无一物，何处染尘埃？’五祖便将衣钵传他。今儿这
偈语亦同此意了。只是方才这句机锋，尚未完全了结，这便丢开手不成？”黛玉
笑道：“他不能答就算输了，这会子答上了也不为出奇了。只是以后再不许谈
禅了。连我们两个所知所能的，你还不知不能呢，还去参禅呢。”宝玉自己以为
觉悟，小想忽被黛玉一问，便不能答；宝钗又比出“语录”来，此皆素不见他们能
者。自己想了一想：“原来他们比我的知觉在先，尚未解悟，我如今何必自寻苦
恼。”想毕，便笑道：“谁又参禅，不过是一时的玩话儿罢了。”说罢，四人仍复如
旧。

忽然人报娘娘差人送出一个灯谜来，命他们大家去猜，猜后每人也作一个
送进去。四人听说，忙出来至贾母上房，只见一个小太监，拿了一盏四角平头白
纱灯，专为灯谜而制，上面已有了一个，众人都争看乱猜。

Precious Hairpin said, “That shows your thorough understanding. In the past, Wit Ability, the sixth forefather of Zen Buddhism’s south sect, wanted to acknowledge the fifth forefather Hung-jen as his master, so he came to Beauty County. Hearing Hung-jen was in Yellow Plum, he served as a cooking monk for him. Hung-jun was going to pick a successor for himself, so he asked his disciples to come up with a Buddhist verse respectively. His chief disciple Miracle said: ‘The body is a bodhi tree. The heart is a mirror. Always wipe, do not coat it with dust.’ At that time, Wit Ability was pounding rice in the kitchen. He heard it and said: ‘It is beautiful enough but not finished.’ Then, he created another verse which said: ‘There is no Bodhi. There is no mirror. Nothing exists. What could the dust coat?’ Therefore, Hung-jen passed his mantle to him. Today, this verse means the same thing. But the keen words are not finished, do you want to abandon it?” Mascara Jade laughed and said: “He has been lost when he could not answer it. If he come up with it now, it is also not surprising. Just don't talk about Zen anymore. You don’t even know what we know. How can you practise meditation?” Precious Jade thought he had thoroughly understanded and he never predicted that he would fail to answering Mascara Jade’s question. Besides, Precious Hairpin also mentioned the allusion. These all proved that he was not as knowledgeable as them. Again, he thought that they had began to think about the question earlier than him but they still did not understand thoroughly; then, he did not have to trouble himself. After considering these, he said: “Who says I am going to practise meditation? I am just kidding.” After that, the four became reconciled again.

Suddenly, someone came to report that the imperial concubine ordered someone to send a lantern riddle to them; after they guessed, they had to come up with one respectively and sent them to palace. They heard that and rushed to Grandma Merchant’s room. A little eunuch was there, taking a quadrangle and flatheaded white gauze lantern which was designed for lantern riddles with one riddle already on it. People all competed to see and guess.--[[User:Liu Zhuofan|Liu Zhuofan]] ([[User talk:Liu Zhuofan|talk]]) 08:57, 4 June 2021 (UTC)

=Péng Jiāyù 彭佳钰=
小太监又下谕道：“众
小姐猜着，不要说出来，每人只暗暗的写了，一齐封送进去，侯娘娘自验是否。”
宝钗听了，近前一看，是一首七言绝句，并无新奇，口中少不得称赞只说“难
猜。”故意寻思，其实一见早猜着了。宝玉、黛玉、湘云、探春四个人也都解了，各
自暗暗的写了。一并将贾环贾兰等传来，一齐各揣心机猜了，写在纸上，然后各
人拈一物作成一谜，恭楷写了，挂于灯上。

太监去了，至晚出来，传谕道：“前日娘娘所制，俱已猜着，惟二小姐与三爷
猜的不是。小姐们作的也都猜了，不知是否？”说着，也将写的拿出来，也有猜着
的，也有猜不着的。太监又将颁赐之物，送与猜着之人，每人一个宫制诗筒，一
柄茶筅。独迎春贾环二人未得，迎春自以为玩笑小事，并不介意，贾环便觉得没
趣。且又听太监说：“三爷所作这个不通，娘娘也没猜着，叫我带回问三爷是个
什么。”众人听了，都来看他作的是什么，写道：

大哥有角只八个，二哥有角只两根。大哥只在床上坐，二哥爱在房上蹲。
众人看了，大发一笑。贾环只得告诉太监说：“是一个枕头，一个兽头。”太监记
了，领茶而去。

=Shū Lín 舒琳=
贾母见元春这般有兴，自己一发喜乐，便命速作一架小巧精致围屏灯来，
设于堂屋，命他姊妹们各自暗暗的做了，写出来，粘在屏上，然后预备下香茶细
果，以及各色玩物，为猜着之贺。贾政朝罢，见贾母高兴，况在节间，晚上也来承
欢取乐。上面贾母、贾政、宝玉一席，王夫人、宝钗、黛玉、湘云又一席，迎春、探
春、惜春三人又一席，俱在下面。地下婆子丫鬟站满。李宫裁、王熙凤二人在里
间又一席。

贾政因不见贾兰，便间：“怎么不见兰哥儿？”地下女人们忙进里间问李氏，
李氏起身笑着回道：“他说方才老爷并没去叫他，他不肯来。”婆子回复了贾政，
众人都笑说：“天生的牛心古怪。”贾政忙遣贾环与两个婆子将贾兰唤来，贾母
命他在身边坐了，抓果子与他吃，大家说笑取乐。往常间只有宝玉长谈阔论，今
日贾政在这里，便唯唯而已。余者，湘云虽系闺阁弱质，却素喜谈论，今日贾政
在席，也白钳口禁语；黛玉本性娇懒，不肯多话；宝钗原不妄言轻动，便此时亦是
坦然自若。故此一席，虽是家常取乐，反见拘束。

贾母亦知因贾政一人在此所致，酒过三巡，便撵贾政去歇息。

Grandma Merchant, noticing in what buoyant spirits First Spring Merchant was, felt herself so much the more elated, that issuing forthwith directions to devise, with every despatch, a small but ingenious lantern of fine texture in the shape of a screen, and put it in the Hall, she bade each of her grandchildren secretly compose a conundrum, copy it out clean, and affix it on the frame of the lantern; and she had subsequently scented tea and fine fruits, as well as every kind of nicknacks, got ready, as prizes for those who guessed right.
And when Master Merchant came from court and found Grandma Merchant in such high glee he also came over in the evening, as the season was furthermore holiday time, to avail himself of her good cheer to reap some enjoyment. In the upper part of the room seated themselves, at one table dowager Grandma Merchant, Master Merchant, and Precious Jade Merchant; Lady King, Precious Hairpin Marshgrass Mascara Jade Forest, Fragrant-cloud History sat round another table, and Spring Pleasure Merchant, Seeking-Spring Merchant and Cherishing Spring Merchant, the three of them, occupied a separate table, and both these tables were laid in the lower part, while below, all over the floor, stood matrons and waiting-maids for Li Kung-ts'ai and Splendid Phoenix King were both seated in the inner section of the Hall, at another table.
Master Merchant failed to see Chia Lan, and he therefore inquired: "How is it I don't see brother Lan," whereupon the female servants, standing below, hastily entered the inner room and made inquiries of widow Li. "He says," Mrs. Li stood up and rejoined with a smile, "that as your master didn't go just then to ask him round, he has no wish to come!" and when a matron delivered the reply to Master Merchant; the whole company exclaimed much amused: "How obstinate and perverse his natural disposition is!" But Master Merchant lost no time in sending Chia Huan, together with two matrons, to fetch Chia Lan; and, on his arrival, dowager Grandma Merchant bade him sit by her side, and, taking a handful of fruits, she gave them to him to eat; after which the party chatted, laughed, and enjoyed themselves.
Ordinarily, there was no one but Precious Jade Merchant to say much or talk at any length, but on this day, with Master Merchant present, his remarks were limited to assents. And as to the rest, Fragrant-cloud History had, though a young girl, and of delicate physique, nevertheless ever been very fond of talking and discussing; but, on this instance, Master Merchant was at the feast, so that she also held her tongue and restrained her words. As for Mascara Jade Forest she was naturally peevish and listless, and not very much inclined to indulge in conversation; while Precious Hairpin Marshgrass, who had never been reckless in her words or frivolous in her deportment, likewise behaved on the present occasion in her usual dignified manner. Hence it was that this banquet, although a family party, given for the sake of relaxation, assumed contrariwise an appearance of restraint, and as Grandma Merchant was herself too well aware that it was to be ascribed to the presence of Master Merchant alone, she therefore, after the wine had gone round three times, forthwith hurried off Master Merchant to retire to rest.--[[User:Shu Lin|Shu Lin]] ([[User talk:Shu Lin|talk]]) 03:36, 5 June 2021 (UTC)

Grandma Merchant, noticing in what buoyant spirits First Spring Merchant was, felt herself so much the more elated, that issuing forthwith directions to devise, with every despatch, a small but ingenious lantern of fine texture in the shape of a screen, and put it in the Hall, she bade each of her grandchildren secretly compose a conundrum, copy it out clean, and affix it on the frame of the lantern; and she had subsequently scented tea and fine fruits, as well as every kind of nicknacks, got ready, as prizes for those who guessed right. And when Master Merchant came from court and found Grandma Merchant in such high glee he also came over in the evening, as the season was furthermore holiday time, to avail himself of her good cheer to reap some enjoyment. In the upper part of the room seated themselves, at one table dowager Grandma Merchant, Master Merchant, and Precious Jade; Lady King, Precious Hairpin, Mascara Jade, Fragrant-cloud sat round another table, and Spring Pleasure, Seeking-Spring and Cherishing Spring, the three of them, occupied a separate table, and both these tables were laid in the lower part, while below, all over the floor, stood matrons and waiting-maids for Aulic Sanction Plum (Silk Plum) and Splendid Phoenix King were both seated in the inner section of the Hall, at another table.

Master Merchant failed to see Orchid Merchant, and he therefore inquired: "How is it I don't see brother Orchid," whereupon the female servants, standing below, hastily entered the inner room and made inquiries of widow Plum. "He says," Mrs. Plum stood up and rejoined with a smile, "that as your master didn't go just then to ask him round, he has no wish to come!" and when a matron delivered the reply to Master Merchant; the whole company exclaimed much amused: "How obstinate and perverse his natural disposition is!" But Master Merchant lost no time in sending Ring Merchant, together with two matrons, to fetch Orchid Merchant; and, on his arrival, Grandma Merchant bade him sit by her side, and, taking a handful of fruits, she gave them to him to eat; after which the party chatted, laughed, and enjoyed themselves. Ordinarily, there was no one but Precious Jade to say much or talk at any length, but on this day, with Master Merchant present, his remarks were limited to assents. And as to the rest, Fragrant-cloud had, though a young girl, and of delicate physique, nevertheless ever been very fond of talking and discussing; but, on this instance, Master Merchant was at the feast, so that she also held her tongue and restrained her words. As for Mascara Jade she was naturally peevish and listless, and not very much inclined to indulge in conversation; while Precious Hairpin, who had never been reckless in her words or frivolous in her deportment, likewise behaved on the present occasion in her usual dignified manner. Hence it was that this banquet, although a family party, given for the sake of relaxation, assumed contrariwise an appearance of restraint, and as Grandma Merchant was herself too well aware that it was to be ascribed to the presence of Master Merchant alone, she therefore, after the wine had gone round three times, forthwith hurried off Master Merchant to retire to rest.--[[User:Su Xiao|Su Xiao]] ([[User talk:Su Xiao|talk]]) 07:28, 9 June 2021 (UTC)

=Sū Xiāo 苏潇=
贾政亦知贾
母之意，撵了他去，好让他姊妹兄弟们取乐，因陪笑道：“今日原听见老太太这里
大设春灯雅谜，故也备了彩礼酒席，特来入会，何疼孙子孙女之心，便不略赐与
儿子半点？”贾母笑道：“你在这里，他们都不敢说笑，没的倒叫我闷的慌。你要
猜谜，我便说一个你猜，猜不着是要罚的。”贾政忙笑道：“自然受罚。若猜着了，
也要领赏呢！”贾母道：“这个自然。”便念道：

猴子身轻站树梢——打一果名。
贾政巳知是荔枝，故意乱猜，罚了许多东西，然后方猜着了，也得了贾母的东西，
然后也念一个灯谜与贾母猜，念道：

身自端方，体自坚硬。虽不能言，有言必应——打一用物。

说毕，便悄悄的说与宝玉，宝玉会意，又悄悄的告诉了贾母。贾母想了一想，果
然不差，便说：“是砚台。”贾政笑道：“到底是老太太，一猜就是。”回头说：“快把
贺彩献上来。”地下妇女答应一声，大盘小盒，一齐捧上。贾母逐件看去，都是灯
节下所用所玩新巧之物，心中甚喜，遂命：“给你老爷斟酒。”宝玉执壶，迎春送
酒。贾母因说：“你瞧瞧那屏上，都是他姐儿们做的，再猜一猜我听。”贾政答应，
起身走至屏前，只见第一个是元妃的，写着道：

能使妖魔胆尽摧，身如束帛气如雷。一声震得人方恐，回首相看已化
灰——打一物。
贾政道：“这是爆竹呢。”宝玉答道：“是。”

Master Merchant knew Grandma Merchant's intention as well. Getting him out, so that his sisters and brothers could have fun. So he smiled and said, "Today I heard that mom set the spring lantern riddles, so I also prepared wonderful gifts and banquets for joining the party. Why don't you give your son a little of your love for your grandchildren?" Grandma Merchant laughed, "they don't dare to talk and laugh if you stay here. That silence makes me bored. Since you want to guess a riddle, I'll just tell you one to guess. If you don't guess out, you'll be punished." Master Merchant smiled at once, "Of course. But if I guess out, don't forget to give me the reward!" "That's for sure." Then Grandma Merchant read,

The light monkey stands on the treetop. The answer was a fruit name.
Master Merchant already knew that it was lichee, but he gave several wrong answers on purpose, with many things being fined. Then he guessed out and got the reward from Grandma Merchant. After that, he also read a lantern riddle to Grandma Merchant to guess, that is, his body is square and hard; he couldn’t speak but would answer all your questions. The answer is an article for use.
After saying this, he whispered to Precious Jade, who understood and whispered to Grandma Merchant. After thinking for a while, Grandma Merchant realized that it was surely right, so she replied, “It is an inkstone.” Master Merchant smiled, “Worthy of being our highly respected lady! You get the right answer at once.” He looked back and said, “Present my prepared gifts.”

--[[User:Su Xiao|Su Xiao]] ([[User talk:Su Xiao|talk]]) 04:23, 9 June 2021 (UTC)

=Tāng Huì 汤惠=
贾政又看迎春的，道：
天运人功理不穷，有功无运也难逢。因何镇日纷纷乱？只为阴阳数不同——打一用物。

贾政道：“是算盘。”迎春笑道：“是。”又往下看，是探春的，道：
阶下儿童仰面时，清明妆点最堪宜。游丝一断浑无力，莫向东风怨别
离——打一物。

贾政道：“好像风筝。”探春道：“是。”贾政再往下看，是黛玉的，道：
朝罢谁携两袖烟？琴边衾里两无缘。晓筹不用鸡人报，五夜无烦侍
女添。焦首朝朝还幕暮，煎心日日复年年。光阴荏苒须当惜，风雨阴睛任
变迁——打一物。
贾政道：“这个莫非是更香？”宝玉代言道：“是。”

贾政又看道：
南面而坐，北面而朝，“象忧亦忧，象喜亦喜”——打一物。
贾政道：“好，好！如猜镜子，妙极！”宝玉笑回道：“是。”

贾政道：“这一个却无名
字，是谁做的？”贾母道：“这个大约是宝玉做的。”贾政就不言语。往下再看宝
钗的，道是：
有眼无珠腹内空，荷花出水喜相逢。梧桐叶落分离别，恩爱夫妻不到
冬——打一物。
贾政看完，心内白忖道：“此物还倒有限。只是小小年纪，作此等言语，更觉不
祥，看来皆非福寿之辈。”想到此处，愈觉烦闷，大有悲戚之状，只是垂头沉思。

Master Merchant move on to read Spring Pleasure’s:

No end to the labour of men, to heaven’s decrees,
But labour unblessed by Heaven will fruitless be.
What causes this constant, frenzied activity?
The uncertainty of mortal destiny.

“An abacus?” Spring Pleasure agreed with a smile. Master Merchant read the next riddle:

The children by the steps look up:
Spring surely has no fitter decoration.
But when the silk cord breaks it drifts away,
Blame not the east wind for this separation.

“That sounds like a kite,” said Master Merchant. When Seeking Spring had confirmed this he looked at another riddle by Mascara Jade:

Who leaves the levee with smoke-scented sleeves?
Not destined by the lute or quilt to sit,
It needs no watchman to announce the dawn,
No maid at the fifth watch to replenish it.
Burned with anxiety both day and night,
Consumed with anguish as time slips away,
As life speeds past we learn to hold it dear—
What cares it whether foul or fair the day?

“Is it incense?” Precious Jade said for Mascara Jade: “Yes.”

Master Merchant thought to himself: “The object itself isn’t ill-omened, but what inauspicious lines for a young girl to write. It doesn’t look as if any of these girls will have good fortune or long life.” He lowered his head in thought and sunk in gloom.--[[User:Tang Hui|Tang Hui]] ([[User talk:Tang Hui|talk]]) 06:02, 6 June 2021 (UTC)

Master Merchant move on to read Spring Pleasure's riddle:

No end to the labor of men, to heaven’s decrees,
But labor unblessed by Heaven will fruitless be.
What causes this constant, frenzied activity?
The uncertainty of mortal destiny.

"An abacus?" Spring Pleasure agreed with a smile. Then, Master Merchant read the next riddle:

The children by the steps look up:
Spring surely has no fitter decoration.
But when the silk cord breaks it drifts away,
Blame not the east wind for this separation.

"That sounds like a kite," said Master Merchant.Seeking Spring confirmed his answer, and so he moved on to look at another riddle by Mascara Jade:

Who leaves the levee with smoke-scented sleeves?
Not destined by the lute or quilt to sit,
It needs no watchman to announce the dawn,
No maid at the fifth watch to replenish it.
Burned with anxiety both day and night,
Consumed with anguish as time slips away,
As life speeds past we learn to hold it dear—
What cares it whether foul or fair the day?

"Is it incense?" "Yes,"said Precious Jade.

The emperor faces the north while ministers face the south
Looks like gloom and it is gloom
Looks like happiness and it is happiness

"Good! It's a mirror!" Precious Jade smiled and said "Yes".

Master Merchant said," There is one without a name on it. Who made it?" Grandma Merchant said, " Maybe it was made by Precious Jade." Master Jade said no words and moved on to read the one made by Precious Hairpin.

Having read this, Master Merchant thought to himself: “The object itself isn’t ill-omened, but what inauspicious lines for a young girl to write! It doesn’t look as if any of these girls will have good fortune or long life.” He lowered his head in thought and sunk in gloom.--[[User:Tang Qizhou|Tang Qizhou]] ([[User talk:Tang Qizhou|talk]]) 06:49, 9 June 2021 (UTC)

=Táng Qǐzhōu 唐启洲 Mr.=
贾母见贾政如此光景，想到他身体劳乏，又恐拘束了他众姊妹，不得高兴玩耍，即对贾政道：“你竟不必在这里了，歇着去罢。让我们再坐一会子，也就散了。”贾政一闻此言，连忙答应几个“是”，又勉强劝了贾母一回酒，方才退出去了。回至房中，只是思索，翻来复去，甚觉凄惋。

这里贾母见贾政去了，便道：“你们乐一乐罢。”一语未了，只见宝玉跑至围屏灯前，指手画脚，信口批评，这个这一句不好，那个破的不恰当，如同开了锁的猴子一般。黛玉道：“还像方才大家坐着，说说笑笑，岂不斯文些儿。”凤姐自里间屋里出来，插口说道：“你这个人，就该老爷每日合你寸步不离方好。刚才我忘了，为什么不当着老爷，撺掇叫你作诗谜儿。这会子不怕你不出汗呢！”说的宝玉急了，扯着凤姐儿厮缠了一会。

贾母又与李宫裁并众姊妹等说笑了一会子，也觉有些困倦，听了听，已交四鼓了，因命将食物撤去，赏与众人，随起身道：“我们安歇罢。明日还是节呢，该当早起。明日晚上再玩罢。”于是众人散去。且听下回分解。

Grandma Merchant assumed that he must be tired, and felt his presence was spoiling the young people’s enjoyment. “There’s no need for you to stay here. You can go and rest,” she said. “We will sit up a little bit and go to rest, too.”Master Merchant responded several "yes" and forced himself to toast his mother once more before he withdrew. Back in his own apartment, he thought about it over and over again in his mind with a grievous sense.

As soon as he had gone, Grandma Merchant urged her grand-children, “Now relax and have some fun!”Precious Jade had already run up to the screen-lantern and was prancing about like a monkey freed from its chain, pulling different riddles to pieces.“Why not sit down as you were before, and chat with us in a more civilized way?”said Mascara Jade. Splendid Phoenix, who had joined them now, interrupted, “you ought to have the master keeping you by his side all the time. I forgot to suggest that you should make up some riddles in his presence. If I had, I’m sure you will be in a cold sweat!”Precious Jade made a frantic grab at her and a scrimmage ensued.

After chatting for a while with the girls, Grandma Merchant began to feel tired, and hearing the fourth watch sounded she asked the food to be cleared away, and told the servants they could have the left.“Let’s rest now,” she said, rising to her feet. “Tomorrow is still a holiday, and we have to get up early. We can enjoy ourselves again in the evening.”To know what happened the next day, read the following chapter.--[[User:Tang Qizhou|Tang Qizhou]] ([[User talk:Tang Qizhou|talk]]) 05:28, 6 June 2021 (UTC)

Grandma Merchant assumed that he must be tired, and felt his presence was spoiling the young people’s enjoyment. “There’s no need for you to stay here. You can go and have a rest,” she said. “We will sit up a little bit and leave, too.”Master Merchant responded several "yes" and forced himself to toast his mother once more before he withdrew. Back in his own apartment, he thought about it over and over again in his mind with a grievous sense.

As soon as he had gone, Grandma Merchant urged her grand-children, “Now relax and have some fun!”A word not finished, Precious Jade had already run up to the front of screen-lantern , pointing out his fingers and carelessly criticizing that this or that word was not good. He was prancing about like a monkey freed from its chain.“Why not sit down as you were before, and chat with us in a more civilized way?”said Mascara Jade. Splendid Phoenix, who had joined them now, interrupted, “you ought to have the master keeping you by his side all the time. I forgot to suggest that you should make up some riddles in his presence. If I had, I’m sure you will be in a cold sweat!”Precious Jade made a frantic grab at her and a scrimmage ensued.

After chatting for a while with the girls, Grandma Merchant began to feel tired, and hearing the fourth watch sounded she asked the food to be cleared away, and told the servants they could have the left.“Let’s rest now,” she said, rising to her feet. “Tomorrow is still a holiday, and we have to get up early. We can enjoy ourselves again in the evening.”To know what happened the next day, read the following chapter.--[[User:Teng Bixia|Teng Bixia]] ([[User talk:Teng Bixia|talk]]) 07:47, 9 June 2021 (UTC)

=Téng Bìxiá 滕璧霞=
◎第二十三回西厢记妙词通戏语牡丹亭艳曲警芳心

话说贾元春自那日幸大观园回宫去后，便命将那日所有的题咏，命探春依
次抄录妥协，自己编次，叙其优劣，又令在大观园勒石，为千古风流雅事。因此
贾政命人各处选拔精工名匠，大观园磨石镌字，贾珍率领贾蓉、贾萍等监工。因
贾蔷又管理着文官等十二个女戏子并行头等事，不得空闲，因此只将贾菖、贾菱
唤来监工。一日烫蜡钉朱，动起手来。这也不在话下。

且说那个玉皇庙并达摩庵两处，一班的十二个小沙弥并十二个小道士，如
今挪出大观园来，贾政正想发到各庙去分住。不想后街上住的贾芹之母周氏，
正打算到贾政这边谋一个大小事件与儿子管管，也好弄些银钱使用，可巧听见
这边有事，便坐车来求凤姐。凤姐因见他素日不大拿班做势的，便依允了。想
了几句话，便回王夫人说：“这些小和尚道士，万不可打发到别处去，一时娘娘出
来，就要应承的。倘或散了，若再用时，可又费事。依我的主意，不如将他们都
送到家庙铁槛寺去，月间不过派一个人拿几两银子去买柴米就是了。说声用，
走去叫一声就来，一点儿不费事。”王夫人听了，便商之于贾政。贾政听了笑道：
“倒是提醒了我。就是这样。”即时唤贾琏。

After First Spring Merchant’s return to the Palace from her visit to Grand View Garden， she gave instructions that Seeking- Spring should copy out all the poems written that day for her to arrange in order of merit, because she wished them to be inscribed on the tablets in the Garden as a lasting memorial to that splendid occasion.Treasure Merchant accordingly ordered skilled artisans to be found to polish and engrave the stones under the supervision of Treasure Merchant, assisted by Prosperity Merchant and Merchant.As Rose Merchant had his hands full looking after the twelve actresses and their properties, he asked Jia Chang and Jia Ling to supervise the work instead.In due course wax was melted over the tablets and the poems were engraved in vermilion. But no more of this.The twenty-four young Buddhists and Taoists from the Dharma Convent and Jade Emperor’s Temple in the Garden had now been moved out, and Master Merchant had been thinking of sending them to various temples elsewhere.Word of this reached Talent Merchant`s mother Lady Zhou who lived in the street behind just as she had decided to look in Master Merchant’s house for some remunerative job, whether big or small, for her son. So she came by sedan-chair to enlist Xifeng’s help.As this woman was normally unassuming, Splendid Phoenix King agreed. Having thought out the right approach she told Lady King: “We mustn’t send away the little Buddhists and Taoists, because they’ll be needed next time Her Highness comes, and it would be hard to get them together again if once they’d been dispersed.My idea is to move them all to our family’s Iron Threshold Temple. Then all we need do is to send someone with a few taels of silver every month for their firewood and rice, and they can be fetched back if needed without any trouble.”Lady King passed on this proposal to her husband. “Quite right,” he agreed. “I’m glad you reminded me.” He sent for Lian Merchant.--[[User:Teng Bixia|Teng Bixia]] ([[User talk:Teng Bixia|talk]]) 07:01, 9 June 2021 (UTC)

=Wáng Chǔyí 王楚仪=
贾琏正同凤姐吃饭，一闻呼唤，放下饭便走。凤姐一把拉住，笑道：“你且
站住，听我说话，若是别的事，我不管；若是为小和尚小道士们的那事，好歹依我
这么着。”如此这般，教了一套话。贾琏笑道：“我不知道，你有本事你说去。”凤
姐听说，把头一梗，把筷子一放，腮上带笑不笑的瞅着贾琏道：“你当真，还是玩
话儿？”贾琏笑道：“西廊下五嫂子的儿子芸儿来求了我两三遭，要件事管管，我
应了，叫他等着。好容易出来这件事，你又夺了去。”凤姐儿笑道：“你放心，园子
东北角上，娘娘说了，还叫多多的种松柏树，楼底下还叫种些花草，等这件事出
来，我包管叫芸儿管这工程。”贾琏道：“果然这样，也倒罢了。只是昨儿晚上，我
不过是要改个样儿，你就扭手扭脚的。”凤姐听了，“嗤”的一声笑了，向贾琏啐了
一口，低下头便吃饭。

贾琏一径笑着去了。走到前面，见了贾政，果然为小和尚的事，贾琏便依
了凤姐的主意，说道：“看来芹儿倒大大的出息了，这件事，竟交与他去管办，横
竖照在里头的规侧，每月叫芹儿支领就是了。”贾政原不大理论这些小事，听贾
琏如此说，便依允了。贾琏回至房中告诉凤姐，凤姐即命人去告诉周氏，贾芹便
来见贾琏夫妻，感谢不尽。

Romance Merchant and Sister Phoenix were having their meal together. When the summons arrived, he put down his rice bowl at once and started to go out. “Wait a minute and listen to me!” She caught hold of his arm. “If this is some other business, that’s not my affair; but if it’s about those little novices, you must handle it in my way.” She told him then exactly what to say. Romance Merchant shook his head, laughing. “This is none of my business. If you’re so clever, go and ask uncle yourself.” Sister Phoenix threw back her head and laid down her chopsticks, staring at Romance Merchant with an icy smile. “Do you mean that, or are you joking?” He smiled, “Rue, the son of Fifth Sister-in-Law who lives in West Lane, has come several times begging me to find him a job, and I promised him I would if he would wait. Now here’s a job at last, but as usual you want to snatch it away.” Sister Phoenix smiled and said, “Don’t worry. Her Highness wants more pines and cypresses planted in the northeast corner of the Garden, as well as more flowers at the foot of the tower. When that job comes up, I promise to let Rue have it.” “All right then,” he chuckled. “But why were you so uncooperative last night when all I wanted was to try something different?” Sister Phoenix snorted with laughter and spat at him in mock disgust, then lowered her head and went on with her meal. Grinning broadly, Romance Merchant left. When he found that his uncle had indeed sent for him about the novices, taking his cue from his wife he suggested: “Celery seems to be shaping well. We might entrust this to him. He can just draw the allowance every month in the usual way.” Since Master Merchant never took much interest in such matters, he made no objection. As soon as Romance Merchant went back to tell Sister Phoenix, she sent a maid to notify Celery’s mother, and the young man came to thank them both profusely.
--[[User:Wang Chuyi|Wang Chuyi]] ([[User talk:Wang Chuyi|talk]]) 04:42, 9 June 2021 (UTC)

Romance Merchant and Sister Phoenix were having their meal together. As soon as the summons arrived, he put down his rice bowl at once and started to go out. “Wait a minute and listen to me!” She caught hold of his arm. “If this is some other business, that’s not my affair; but if it’s about those little novices, you’d better handle it in my way.” She told him then exactly how to do it. Romance Merchant shook his head, laughing, “This is none of my business. If you’re so clever, go and ask uncle yourself.” Sister Phoenix threw back her head and laid down her chopsticks, staring at Romance Merchant with an icy smile. “Do you mean that, or are you joking?” He smiled, “Rue, the son of Fifth Sister-in-Law who lives in West Lane, has come several times begging me to find a job for him, and I promised him I would if he would wait. Now here’s a job at last, but as usual you want to snatch it away.” Sister Phoenix smiled and said, “Don’t worry. Her Highness wants more pines and cypresses planted in the northeast corner of the Garden, as well as more flowers at the foot of the tower. When that job comes up, I promise to let Rue have it.” “All right then,” he chuckled. “But why were you so uncooperative last night when all I wanted was to try something different?” Sister Phoenix snorted with laughter and spat at him in mock disgust, then lowered her head and went on with her meal. Grinning broadly, Romance Merchant left. When he found that his uncle had indeed sent for him about the novices, taking his cue from his wife he suggested: “Celery seems to be shaping well. We might entrust this to him. He can just draw the allowance every month in the usual way.” Since Master Merchant never took much interest in such matters, he made no objection. As soon as Romance Merchant went back to tell Sister Phoenix, she sent a maid to notify Celery’s mother, and the young man came to thank them both profusely. —[[User:Wang Jingyi|Wang Jingyi]] ([[User talk:Wang Jingyi|talk]]) 06:44, 9 June 2021 (UTC)

=Wáng Jìngyí 王静怡=
凤姐又做情先支三个月的费用，叫他写了领字，贾琏
批票画了押，登时发了对牌出去，银库上按数发出三个月的供给来，白花花三百
两。贾芹随手拈了一块与掌平的人，叫他们“吃了茶罢”。于是命小厮拿了回
家，与母亲商议。登时，又雇几辆车子，至荣国府角门前，唤出二十四个人来，坐
上车子，一径往城外铁槛寺去了。当下无话。

如今且说那贾元春在宫中编《大观园题咏》之后，忽想起那园中的景致，自
从幸过之后，贾政必定敬谨封锁，不叫人进去，岂不辜负此园？况家中现有几个
能诗会赋的姊妹们，何不命他们进去居住，也不使佳人落魄，花柳无颜。却又想
宝玉自幼在姊妹丛中长大，不比别的兄弟，若不命他进去，又怕冷落了他，恐贾
母王夫人心上不喜，须得也命他进去居住方妥。命太监夏忠到荣府下一道谕：
“命宝钗等在园中居住，不可封锢，命宝玉也随进去读书。”

贾政、王夫人接了谕命，夏忠去后，便回明贾母，遣人进去各处收拾打扫，安
设帘幔床帐。别人听了，还犹自可，惟宝玉喜之不胜。正和贾母盘算，要这个，
要那个，忽见丫鬟来说：“老爷叫宝玉。”宝玉呆了半晌，登时扫了兴，脸上转了
色，便拉着贾母，扭的扭股儿糖似的，死也不敢去。

With a show of conferring further favors, Splendid Phoenix King‘begged’ Romance Merchant to allow Celery Merchant three months’ payment in advance. A receipt was written for this amount and Romance Merchant’s seal affixed to it, and there and then Celery Merchant was issued with a tally and sent to the counting-house to collect the money.
When the three hundred taels of shining silver had been weighed and counted and handed over, Celery Merchant picked up a piece at random and tossed it to the cashiers to ‘buy themselves a cup of tea with’. He had a boy to carry the money back home for him, and after taking counsel with his mother he hired a stout little donkey for himself to ride on and four or five covered mule-carts for the nuns, an~ conducting the carts round to the side gate of the Rongguo Mansion, he called forth the twenty-four little nuns and packed them all inside. Then off they set, with Celery Merchant on his donkey at the head of the procession, to the Temple of the Iron Threshold outside the city. And there we leave them.

First Spring’s editing of the Prospect Garden poems had given her a vivid recollection of the garden’s beauties. She was sure that her father, out of a zealous reverence for the Emperor and herself, would have kept it all locked and closed since her visit and would have allowed no one else to enter, and she felt this to be a waste and a shame—the more so when her family contained so many poetical young ladies who would have found inspiration in its scenery—not to mention the benefit their presence would have bestowed on the garden itself: for, as is well-known,

When lovely woman smiles not,
All Nature’s charms ate dead.

Assuredly, the girls must be allowed into the garden. It should become their home. And if the girls, why not Precious Jade? He had grown up in their midst. He was different from other boys. If he were not allowed into the garden as well, he would consider himself left out in the cold, and his distress would cause Lady Wang and Grandma Merchant to feel unhappy too. Unquestionably she should ask for him to be admitted along with the girls. Having reached this decision, she summoned the eunuch Faithfulness Summer and ordered him to convey the following Edict to Rongguo Mansion:

Precious Hairpin and the other young ladies of the household ate to reside in the Garden. The Garden is not to be kept closed. Precious Jade is to accompany the young ladies into the Garden and to continue his studies there.

The Edict was received by Master Merchant and Lady Wang. When Faithfulness Summer had gone, they reported it at once to Grandma Merchant and sent servants into the garden to sweep and prepare its buildings and rehang the blinds, portieres and bed-curtains in readiness for occupation.
No one was mote excited by the prospect of this move than Precious Jade. He was discussing it animatedly with Grandma Merchant (it was a discussion in which the words ‘I want’ recurred rather frequently) when suddenly a maid came in and announced that he was wanted by his father. At this bolt from the blue his countenance fell and all his animation drained away. Clinging to his grandmother with the gluey persistence of a toffee twist, he made it abundantly plain to her that he had no wish to obey.
--[[User:Wang Jingyi|Wang Jingyi]] ([[User talk:Wang Jingyi|talk]]) 17:02, 8 June 2021 (UTC)

=Wáng Qìnyú 王沁瑜=
贾母只得安慰他道：“好宝
贝，你只管去，有我呢，他不敢委屈了你。况你做了这篇好文章，想是娘娘叫你
进园去住，他吩咐你几句话，不过是怕你在里头淘气。他说什么，你只好生答应
着就是了。”一面安慰，一面唤了两个老嬷嬷来，吩咐：“好生带了宝玉去，别叫他
老子唬着他。”老姥嬷答应了。

宝玉只得前去，一步挪不了三寸，蹭到这边来。可巧贾政在王夫人房中商
议事情，金钏儿、彩云、彩凤、绣鸾、绣凤等众丫鬟都廊檐下站着呢，一见宝玉来，
都抿着嘴儿笑他。金钏一把拉着宝玉，悄悄的说道：“我这嘴上是才擦的香渍
的胭脂，你这会子可吃不吃了？”彩云一把推开金钏，笑道：“人家心里正不自在，
你还奚落他。趁这会子喜欢，快进去罢。”宝玉只得挨门进去。原来贾政和王
夫人都在里间呢。赵姨娘打起帘子，宝玉挨身而入，只见贾政和王夫人对坐在
炕上说话，地下一溜椅子，迎春、探春、惜春、贾环四人都坐在那里。一见他进
来，惟有探春、惜春和贾环站了起来。

贾政一举目见宝玉站在跟前，神彩飘逸，秀色夺人；又看见贾环人物委琐，
举止粗糙；忽又想起贾珠来。再看看王夫人只有这一个亲生的儿子，素爱如珍；
自己的胡须将已苍白，因这几件上，把平日嫌恶宝玉之心，不觉减了八九分。

Grandma Merchant comforted him, “Go, my sweeter. I won’t let him be hard on you. Besides, it’s because you wrote so well that the empress has said you should move into the garden. And your father only warns you to behave yourself when you are in the garden. Just say “yes” to whatever he tells you.” When comforting him, Grandma Merchant called two old nurses and ordered them, “Take Precious Jade there and don’t let his father frighten him.” The nurses complied.
Precious Jade had to left, with dragging steps. It so happened that Master Merchant was discussing some business in Lady King’s room, while her maids Golden Bracelet, Silver Bracelet, Sun Cloud, Embroidered Bluebird, Embroidered Phoenix were standing outside under the eaves. When they saw Precious Jade, they smiled knowingly. Golden Bracelet caught Precious Jade and whispered, “I’ve just put some rouge o my lips. Do you want to taste it now?” Sun Cloud pushed her away and laughed, “Don’t tease him when he is felling low. Go in quickly, while the master is in a good mood.” Precious Jade had to sidle in and Master Merchant and Lady King were in the inner room. Concubine Zhao raised the portiere. Precious Jade entered with a bow. Master Merchant and Lady King was talking on the bed, sating facing each other, while Spring Pleasure, Seeking Spring, Cherishing Spring, Ring Merchant sat on a row of chair below. Seeing his entering, only Seeking Spring, Cherishing Spring and King Merchant got up.
Master Merchant glanced up and saw Precious Jade standing before him. The boy’s striking charm and air of distinction contrasted with King Merchant vulgar, common appearance that he was reminded of his dead son, Bead Merchant. He glanced at Lady King who had only this one son left and doted on him. As for himself, his bread was already turning gray. Because of these, his abominate to Precious Jade reduced.

Grandma Merchant comforted him, “Go, my sweetheart. I won’t let him punish you. Besides, it’s because you wrote so well that the empress has said you should move into the garden. And your father only warns you to behave yourself when you are in the garden. Just say “yes” to whatever he tells you.” When comforting him, Grandma Merchant called two old nurses and ordered them, “Take Precious Jade there and don’t let his father frighten him.” The nurses complied.
Precious Jade had to left, with dragging steps. It so happened that Master Merchant was discussing some business in Lady King’s room, while her maids Golden Bracelet, Silver Bracelet, Sun Cloud, Embroidered Bluebird, Embroidered Phoenix were standing outside under the eaves. When they saw Precious Jade, they smiled knowingly. Golden Bracelet caught Precious Jade and whispered, “I’ve just put some rouge o my lips. Do you want to taste it now?” Sun Cloud pushed her away and laughed, “Don’t tease him when he is felling low. Go in quickly, while the master is in a good mood.” Precious Jade had to sidle in and Master Merchant and Lady King were in the inner room. Concubine Zhao raised the portiere. Precious Jade entered with a bow. Master Merchant and Lady King was talking on the bed, sating facing each other, while Spring Pleasure, Seeking Spring, Cherishing Spring, Ring Merchant sat on a row of chair below. Seeing his entering, only Seeking Spring, Cherishing Spring and King Merchant got up.
Master Merchant glanced up and saw Precious Jade standing before him. The boy’s striking charm and air of distinction contrasted with King Merchant vulgar, common appearance that he was reminded of his dead son, Bead Merchant. He glanced at Lady King who had only this one son left and doted on him. As for himself, his bread was already turning gray. Because of these, his abominate to Precious Jade reduced.--[[User:Wang Zihan|Wang Zihan]] ([[User talk:Wang Zihan|talk]]) 09:10, 9 June 2021 (UTC)

=Wáng Zǐhán 王子涵=
半
晌说道：“娘娘吩咐你说，日日在外游嬉，渐次疏懒，如今叫禁管你同姐妹们在园
里读书，你可好生用心学习；再不守分安常，你可仔细！”宝玉连连答应了几个
“是”。王夫人便拉他在身边坐下。他姊弟三人依旧坐下，王夫人摸索着宝玉
的脖项说道：“前儿的丸药都吃完了没有？”宝玉答应道：“还有一丸。”王夫人
说：“明早再取十丸来，天天临睡时候，叫袭人伏侍你吃了再睡。”宝玉道：“自从
太太吩咐了，袭人天天临睡打发我吃的。”贾政便问道：“谁叫‘袭人’？”王夫人
道：“是个丫头。”贾政道：“丫头不拘叫个什么罢了，是谁起这样刁钻的名宇？”
王夫人见贾政不自在了，便替宝玉掩饰道：“是老太太起的。”贾政道：“老太太
如何晓得这样的话？一定是宝玉。”宝玉见瞒不过，只得起身回道：“因素日读
诗，曾记古人有句诗云：‘花气袭人知昼暖。’因这丫头姓‘花’，便随意起的。”王
夫人忙向宝玉说道：“你回去改了罢。老爷也不用为这小事生气。”贾政道：“其
实也无妨碍，不用改。只可见宝玉不务正，专在这些浓词艳诗上做工夫。”说毕，
断喝了一声：“作孽的畜生，还不出去！”王夫人也忙道：“去罢，去罢！怕老太太
等吃饭呢。”

After a pause he said: “Her Highness has ordered you to study and practise calligraphy with the girls in the Garden, instead of fooling around outside and neglecting your studies. Mind that you apply yourself there to your lessons. If you go on misbehaving, watch out!”

“Yes, sir,” agreed Precious Jade hastily. Then his mother drew him over to sit beside her while Jia Huan and the other two sat down again.

Stroking her son’s neck fondly Lady Wang asked:“Have you finished those pills prescribed for you the other day?”

“All but one.”

“You must fetch ten more tomorrow. Get Aroma to see that you take one each evening at bedtime.”

“Ever since you ordered it, madam, Aroma has been giving me one every evening.”

“Who is Aroma?” demanded Master Merchant.

“One of the maids,” his wife told him.

“A maid can be called anything, I suppose. But who thought up such a suggestive name for her?”

To shield Precious Jade from his father’s displeasure Lady Wang said, “It was the old lady’s idea.”

“Such a name would never occur to the old lady. This must have been Precious Jade’s doing.”

Since there was no hiding the truth Precious Jade rose to confess: “I remembered that line of an old poem: When the fragrance of flowers assails men we know the day is warm. As this maid’s surname is Hua (Flower), I called her Aroma.”

“You must change it when you go back,” put in Lady Wang quickly. Then she turned to her husband. “Don’t be angry, sir, over such a little thing.”

“It doesn’t really matter, there’s no need to change it. But this shows that instead of studying properly Precious Jade gives all his time to romantic trash.”

Then he said sternly to Precious Jade: “What are you standing there for, you unnatural monster?”

“Run along, “urged Lady Wang. “The old lady is probably waiting for you for supper.
--[[User:Wang Zihan|Wang Zihan]] ([[User talk:Wang Zihan|talk]]) 09:02, 10 June 2021 (UTC)

After a pause he said: “Her Highness has ordered you to study and practise calligraphy with the girls in the Garden, instead of fooling around outside and neglecting your studies. Mind that you apply yourself there to your lessons. If you go on misbehaving, watch out!”
“Yes, sir,” agreed Precious Jade hastily. Then his mother drew him over to sit beside her while the other two sat down again. Stroking her son’s neck fondly Lady Wang asked:“Have you finished those pills prescribed for you the other day?” “All but one.” “You must fetch ten more tomorrow. Get Aroma to see that you take one each evening at bedtime.”
“Ever since you ordered it, madam, Aroma has been giving me one every evening.” “Who is Aroma?” demanded Master Merchant. “One of the maids,” his wife told him. “A maid can be called anything, I suppose. But who thought up such a suggestive name for her?” To shield Precious Jade from his father’s displeasure Lady Wang said, “It was the old lady’s idea.” “Such a name would never occur to the old lady. This must have been Precious Jade’s doing.” Since there was no hiding the truth Precious Jade rose to confess: “I remembered that line of an old poem: When the fragrance of flowers assails men we know the day is warm. As this maid’s surname is Hua (Flower), I called her Aroma.” “You must change it when you go back,” put in Lady Wang quickly. Then she turned to her husband. “Don’t be angry over such a little thing.” “It doesn’t really matter, there’s no need to change it. But this shows that instead of studying properly Precious Jade gives all his time to romantic trash.” Then he said sternly to Precious Jade: “What are you standing there for, you unnatural monster?” “Run along, “urged Lady Wang. “The old lady is probably waiting for you for supper. ”--[[User:Wu Siyi|Wu Siyi]] ([[User talk:Wu Siyi|talk]]) 03:14, 14 June 2021 (UTC)

=Wǔ Sīyí 伍斯仪=
宝玉答应了，慢慢的退出去；向金钏儿笑着伸伸舌头，带着两个老嬷嬷，一
溜烟去了。刚至穿堂门前，只见袭人倚门而立，见宝玉平安回来，堆下笑来，问
道：“叫你做什么？”宝玉告诉：“没有甚么，不过怕我进园淘气，吩咐吩咐。”一面
说，一面回至贾母跟前，回明原委。只见黛玉正在那里，宝玉便问他“你住在那
一处好？”黛玉正盘算这事，忽见宝玉一问，便笑道：“我心里想着潇湘馆好，我爱
那几竿竹子，隐着一道曲栏，比别处幽静。”宝玉听了，拍手笑道：“正合我的主
意！我也要叫你那里去住，我就住怡红院。咱们两个又近，又都清幽。”

二人正计议，就有贾政遣人来回贾母，说：“二月二十二日是好日子，哥儿
姐儿们好搬进去的。这几日内遣人进去分派收拾。”薛宝钗住了蘅芜院，林黛
玉住了潇湘馆，贾迎春住了缀锦楼，探春住了秋掩书斋，惜春住蓼风轩，李纨住
丁稻香村，宝玉住怡红院。每一处添两个老嬷嬷，四个丫头；除各人奶娘亲随丫
头外，另有专管收拾打扫的。至二十二日，一齐进去，登时园内花招绣带，柳拂
香风，不似前番那等寂寞了。

闲言少叙。且说宝玉自进园来，心满意足，再无别项可生贪求之心，每日
只和姊妹丫鬟们一处，或读书，或写字，或弹琴下棋，作画吟诗，以至描鸾刺凤，
斗草簪花，低吟情唱，拆字猜枚，无所不至，倒也十分快意。

Precious Jade answered and slowly withdrew. He grinned and stuck out his tongue at Golden and ran away swiftly with the two nurses. While He just arrived at the entrance hail, he found Aroma leaning in the doorway. Her face lit up when she saw that Precious Jade was back safely, and she asked, “What did your father tell you to do?” “Nothing much. Just to warn me not to go to the Garden and behave myself.” He answered. Having by now reached the Lady Dowager’s room he told her what had happened. Then he saw Mascara Jade was here and asked, “ in which part of the Garden would you like to live?” Mascara Jade had been thinking this over and she smiled and answered: “I’d like to live in Bamboo Lodge. I love those bamboos half hiding the winding balustrade, and the place is quieter than anywhere else.” “Just what I thought!” Precious Jade clapped his hands and laughed. “That’s where I want you to live. I am in Happy Red Court, we are close and we can enjoy the quietness.”
At this point Master Merchant sent a servant to report to the Lady Dowager that the twenty-second of the second month would be an auspicious day for the move into the Garden, and the young people’s quarters would be ready by then. Precious Hairpin Marshgrass lived in Asarum Garden, Mascara Jade Bamboo Lodge, Spring Pleasure Merchant Variegated Splendour of tower, Seeking Spring Merchant the Studio of Autumn Freshness, Spring Cherish Merchant Smartweed Breeze Cot, Silk Plum Paddy-Sweet Cottage, and Precious Jade Happy Red Court. Two old nurses and four maids were assigned to each apartment in addition to the occupant’s nanny and own attendants, and there were other servants whose sole duty was cleaning and sweeping. On the twenty-second they all moved in and at once the Garden gay with flowers and willows ruffled by a fragrant breeze from embroidered sashes lost its former air of desolation.
But no need to describe this in detail. Precious Jade found life in the Garden all he could wish. He asked nothing better than to spend every day with his sisters, cousins and maids, reading, writing, strumming the lute, playing chess, painting, chanting poems, watching the girls embroider their phoenix patterns, enjoying the flowers, softly singing, guessing riddles or playing the guess-fingers game. He had a carefree life here.”

=Wú Xīnxīn 吴欣欣=
他曾有几首四时即
事诗，虽不算好，却是真情真景。
“春夜即事”云：
霞绡云幄任铺陈，隔巷蛙声听未真。枕上轻寒窗外雨，眼前春色梦中
人。盈盈烛泪因谁泣，点点花愁为我嗔。自是小鬟娇懒惯，拥衾不耐笑言
频。

“夏夜即事”云：
倦绣佳人幽梦长，金笼鹦鹉唤茶汤。窗明麝月开宫镜，室霭檀云品御
香。琥珀杯倾荷露滑，玻璃槛纳柳风凉。水亭处处齐纨动，帘卷朱楼罢晓
妆。

“秋夜即事”云：
绛芸轩里绝喧哗，桂魄流光浸茜纱。苔锁石纹容睡鹤，井飘桐露湿栖
鸦。抱衾婢至舒金凤，倚槛人归落翠花。静夜不眠因酒渴，沉烟重拨索烹
茶。

“冬夜即事”云：
梅魂竹梦已三更，锦罽鹴衾睡未成。松影一庭惟见鹤，梨花满地不聞
莺。女奴翠袖诗怀冷，公子金貂酒力轻。却喜侍儿知试茗，扫将新雪及时
烹。

不说宝玉闲吟，且说这几首诗，当时有一等势利人，见是荣国府十二三岁
的公子做的，抄录出来，各处称颂；再有等轻薄子弟，爱上那风流妖艳之句，也写
在扇头壁上，不时吟哦赏赞。因此上竟有人来寻诗觅字，倩画求题的。宝玉一
发得意，每日家做这些外务。

谁想静中生动，忽一日，不自在起来，这也不好，那也不好，出来进去，只是
闷闷的。园中那些女孩子，正是混沌世界天真烂熳之时，坐卧不避，嬉笑无心，
那里知宝玉此时的心事？

From his pen emanate four ballads on the times of the four seasons， which， although they could not be looked upon as first-rate， afford anyhow a correct idea of his sentiments， and a true account of the scenery.
the ballad on the spring night runs as follows：

the silken curtains， thin as russet silk， at random are spread out. The croak of frogs from the adjoining lane but faintly strikes the ear. The pillow a slight chill pervades， for rain outside the window falls. The landscape， which now meets the eye， is like that seen in dreams by man. In plenteous streams the candles' tears do drop， but for whom do they weep？ Each particle of grief felt by the flowers is due to anger against me. It's all because the maids have by indulgence indolent been made. The cover over me I'll pull， as I am loth to laugh and talk for long.

This is the description of the aspect of nature on a summer night：

the beauteous girl， weary of needlework， quiet is plunged in a long dream. The parrot in the golden cage doth shout that it is time the tea to brew. The lustrous windows with the musky moon like open palace-mirrors look； The room abounds with fumes of sandalwood and all kinds of imperial scents. From the cups made of amber is poured out the slippery dew from the lotus. The banisters of glass， the cool zephyr enjoy flapped by the willow trees. In the stream-spanning kiosk， the curtains everywhere all at one time do wave. In the vermilion tower the blinds the maidens roll， for they have made the night's toilette.
the landscape of an autumnal evening is thus depicted：

In the interior of the Chiang Yuen house are hushed all clamorous din and noise. The sheen， which from Selene flows， pervades the windows of carnation gauze. The moss-locked， streaked rocks shelter afford to the cranes， plunged in sleep. The dew， blown on the t'ung tree by the well， doth wet the roosting rooks. Wrapped in a quilt， the maid comes the gold phoenix coverlet to spread. The girl， who on the rails did lean， on her return drops the kingfisher flowers！ This quiet night his eyes in sleep he cannot close， as he doth long for wine. The smoke is stifled， and the fire restirred， when tea is ordered to be brewed.

the picture of a winter night is in this strain：

the sleep of the plum trees， the dream of the bamboos the third watch have already reached. Under the embroidered quilt and the kingfisher coverlet one can't sleep for the cold. The shadow of fir trees pervades the court， but cranes are all that meet the eye. Both far and wide the pear blossom covers the ground， but yet the hawk cannot be heard. The wish， verses to write， fostered by the damsel with the GREen sleeves， has waxed cold. The master， with the gold sable pelisse， cannot endure much wine. But yet he doth rejoice that his attendant knows the way to brew the tea. The newly-fallen snow is swept what time for tea the water must be boiled.

But putting aside Precious Jade Merchant， as he leisurely was occupied in scanning some verses， we will now allude to all these ballads. There lived， at that time， a class of people， whose wont was to servilely court the influential and wealthy， and who， upon perceiving that the verses were composed by a young lad of the Jung Kuo mansion， of only twelve or thirteen years of age， had copies made， and taking them outside sang their praise far and wide. There were besides another sort of light-headed young men， whose heart was so set upon licentious and seductive lines， that they even inscribed them on fans and screen-walls， and time and again kept on humming them and extolling them. And to the above reasons must therefore be ascribed the fact that persons came in search of stanzas and in quest of manuscripts， to apply for sketches and to beg for poetical compositions， to the increasing satisfaction of Precious Jade Merchant， who day after day， when at home， devoted his time and attention to these extraneous matters. But who would have anticipated that he could ever in his quiet seclusion have become a prey to a spirit of restlessness？ Of a sudden， one day he began to feel discontent， finding fault with this and turning up his nose at that； and going in and coming out he was simply full of ennui. And as all the girls in the garden were just in the prime of youth， and at a time of life when， artless and unaffected， they sat and reclined without regard to retirement， and disported themselves and joked without heed， how could they ever have come to read the secrets which at this time occupied a place in the heart of Precious Jade Merchant？

=Yāo Yáng 么阳=
那宝玉心内不自在，便懒在园内，只在外头鬼混，却又
痴痴的。茗烟见他这样，因想与他开心，左思右想，皆是宝玉玩烦了的，只有这
件，宝玉不曾见过。想毕，便走到书坊内，把那古今小说，并那飞燕、合德、武则
天、杨贵妃的“外传”与那传奇角本，买了许多来引宝玉。宝玉一看，如得珍宝。
茗烟又嘱咐道：“不可拿进园去，若叫人知道了，我就‘吃不了兜着走’呢。”宝玉
那里肯不拿进去？踟蹰再四，单把那文理雅道些的，拣了几套进去，放在床顶
上，无人时方看；那粗俗过露的，都藏于外面书房内。

那日正当三月中浣，早饭后，宝玉携了一套《会真记》，走到沁芳闸桥那边
桃花底下一块石上坐着，展开《会真记》，从头细看。正看到“落红成阵”，只见
一阵风过，树上桃花吹下一大斗来，落得满身满书满地皆是花片。宝玉要抖将
下来，恐怕脚步践踏了，只得兜了那花瓣，来至池边，抖在池内。那花瓣浮在水
面，飘飘荡荡，竟流出沁芳闸去了。

回来只见地下还有许多花瓣，宝玉正踟蹰间，只听背后有人说道：“你在这
里做什么？”宝玉一回头，却是林黛玉来了：肩上担着花锄，花锄上挂着纱囊，手
内拿着花帚。宝玉笑道：“好，好，来把这个花扫起来，撂在那水里去罢。我才撂
了好些在那里呢。”
That Precious Jade was uncomfortable in his heart, so he stayed lazily in the garden, only fooling around outside, but he was as in a trance. And Tealeaf saw him like this. In order to make him happy，she racked her brains：Precious Jade was enough of all the playing things，only this one，Precious Jade had never seen it before. After thinking about it, she went to the bookstore and bought Precious Jade a lot of ancient and modern novels, along with the "unofficial biographies"of Zhao Flying Swallow, Zhao Virtue, Empress Wu Zetian, and the Imperial Concubine Yang, and the romantic novels. Upon reading these books, Precious Jade was as if gaining the most precious treasures. Tealeaf again ordered: "Don't take it into the garden. If someone knows it, I'll be in real trouble."But would Precious Jade be willing not to bring the book into the garden？After hesitating four more times, he picked up only a few sets of the more highbrow ones, and put them on the top of the bed so that he can read them when there's no one else; the vulgar and indecent ones were all hidden in the outside study.
That day was the middle of March. After breakfast, Baoyu brought a set of "The Story of Huizheng" and walked to the Qinfang Gate Bridge. Sitting on a stone under the peach trees, he opened "The Story of Huizheng" and carefully read it from the beginning. When he was seeing the "falling red（flowers）was piled"，a gust of wind passed, blowing down a big bucket of peach blossoms from the tree and Precious Jade’s whole body ，the entire ground and book were covered with flowers. Precious Jade was about to shake off the flowers, but he was afraid that his footsteps would trample them on, so he had to take the petals in clothes, come to the edge of the pool, and shook them into the pool. The petals floated on the water, drifting, and flowed out of the Qinfang Gate. When he came back, he found there were many petals in the ground again. While Precious Jade was hesitating what to do with these petals，he heard someone behind him say: "What are you doing here?" Precious Jade turned around and found that was Mascara Jade，who came with a flower hoe on her shoulder, and a gauze-bag hung on that hoe，a flower broom was held in her hand. Precious Jade smiled and said: "Well, well, come and sweep these flowers up and put them in the water. I have just thrown lots of them there."

=Yì Míngxiá 易明霞=
黛玉道：“撂在水里不好，你看这里的水干净，只一流出去，有
人家的地方什么没有？仍旧把花遭塌了。那畸角上我有一个花冢，如今把他扫
了，装在选绢袋里，埋在那里，日久随土化了，岂不干净。”

宝玉听了，喜不自禁，笑道：“待我放下书，帮你来收拾。”黛玉道：“什么
书？”宝玉见问，慌的藏之不迭，便说道：“不过是《中庸》《大学》。”黛玉道：“你又
在我跟前弄鬼。趁早儿给我瞧瞧，好多着呢。”宝玉道：“妹妹，要论你，我是不怕
的。你看了，好歹别告诉别人。真正这是好文章！你若看了，连饭也不想吃
呢。”一面说，一面递了过去。黛玉把花具放下，接书来瞧，从头看去，越看越爱，
不顿饭时，将十六出俱已看完。但觉词句警人，余香满口。虽看完了，却只管出
神，心内还默默记诵。宝玉笑道：“妹妹，你说好不好？”林黛玉笑道：“果然有
趣。”宝玉笑道：“我就是个‘多愁多病的身’，你就是那‘倾国倾城的貌’。”林黛
玉听了，不觉带腮连耳通红，登时竖起两道似蹙非蹙的眉，瞪了两只似睁非睁的
眼，桃腮带怒，薄面含嗔，指着宝玉道：“你这该死的胡说！好好的，把这淫词艳
曲弄了来，说这些混帐话来欺负我。我告诉舅舅、舅母去！”说到“欺负”二字，
就把眼圈儿红了，转身就走。
‘It isn’t a good idea to tip them in the water,’ said Mascara Jade Forest. ‘The water you see here is clean, but farther on beyond the weir, where it flows past people’s houses, there are all sorts of muck and impurity, and in the end they get spoiled just the same. In that corner over there I’ve got a grave for the flowers, and what I’m doing now is sweeping them up and putting them in this silk bag to bury them there, so that they can gradu¬ally turn back into earth. Isn’t that a cleaner way of disposing of them?’
Precious Jade was full of admiration for this idea.
‘Just let me put this book somewhere and I’ll give you a hand.’
‘What book?’ said Mascara Jade Forest.
‘Oh... The Doctrine of the Mean and The Greater Learning,’ he said, hastily concealing it.
‘Don’t try to fool me!’ said Mascara Jade Forest. ‘You would have done much better to let me look at it in the first place, instead of hiding it so guiltily.’
‘In your case, coz, I have nothing to be afraid of;’ said Bao-yu; ‘but if I do let you look, you must promise not to tell anyone. It’s marvellous stuff. Once you start reading it, you’ll even stop wanting to eat!’
He handed the book to her, and Mascara Jade put down her things and looked. The more she read, the more she liked it, and before very long she had read several acts. She felt the power of the words and their lingering fragrance. Long after she had finished reading, when she had laid down the book and was sitting there rapt and silent, the lines continued to ring on in her head.
‘Well,’ said Precious Jade, ‘is it good?’
Mascara Jade smiled and nodded.
Precious Jade laughed:

‘How can I, full of sickness and of woe,
Withstand that face which kingdoms could o’erthrow?’

Mascara Jade reddened to the tips of her ears. The eyebrows that seemed to frown yet somehow didn’t were raised now in anger and the lovely eyes flashed. There was rage in her crimson cheeks and resentment in all her looks.
‘You’re hateful!’ - she pointed a finger at him in angry accusal — ‘deliberately using that horrid play to take advantage of me. I’m going. straight off to tell Uncle and Aunt!’
At the words ‘take advantage of me’ her eyes filled with tears, and as she finished speaking she turned from him and began to go.

"It isn’t a good idea to tip them in the water," said Mascara Jade Forest. "The water you see here is clean, but farther on beyond the weir, where it flows past people’s houses, there are all sorts of muck and impurity, and in the end they get spoiled just the same. In that corner over there I’ve got a grave for the flowers, and what I’m doing now is sweeping them up and putting them in this silk bag to bury them there, so that they can gradually turn back into earth. Isn’t that a cleaner way of disposing of them?" Precious Jade was full of admiration for this idea. "Just let me put this book somewhere and I’ll give you a hand." "What book?" said Mascara Jade Forest. "Oh... The Doctrine of the Mean and The Greater Learning," he said, hastily concealing it. "Don’t try to fool me!" said Mascara Jade Forest, "You'd better let me look at it in the first place, instead of hiding it so guiltily." "In your case, I have nothing to be afraid of," said Precious Jade, "but if I do let you look, you must promise not to tell anyone. It’s marvellous stuff. Once you start reading it, you’ll even stop wanting to eat!" He handed the book to her, and Mascara Jade put down her things and looked at it. The more she read, the more she liked it, and before very long she had read several acts. She felt the power of the words and their lingering fragrance. Long after she had finished reading, when she had laid down the book and was sitting there rapt and silent, the lines continued to ring on in her head. "Well," said Precious Jade, "is it good?" Mascara Jade smiled and nodded. Precious Jade laughed, "How can I, full of sickness and of woe, withstand that face which kingdoms could overthrow?"
Mascara Jade reddened to the tips of her ears. The eyebrows that seemed to frown yet somehow didn’t were raised now in anger and the lovely eyes flashed. There was rage in her crimson cheeks and resentment in all her looks. "You’re hateful!"— she pointed a finger at him in angry accusal — "deliberately using that horrid play to take advantage of me. I’m going. straight off to tell Uncle and Aunt!" At the words ‘take advantage of me’ her eyes filled with tears, and as she finished speaking she turned from him and began to go.--[[User:Yuan Jing|Yuan Jing]] ([[User talk:Yuan Jing|talk]]) 23:24, 8 June 2021 (UTC)

=Yuán Jìng 袁静=
宝玉着了忙，向前拦住道：“好妹妹，千万饶我这一遭，原是我说错了。若
有心欺负你，明儿我掉在池子里，叫个癞头鼋吃了去，变个大忘八，等你明儿做
了‘一品夫人’病老归西的时候，我往你坟上替你驼一辈子碑去。”说的林黛玉
“扑嗤”的一声笑了，一面揉着眼，一面笑道：“一般唬的这么个调儿，还只管胡
说。呸，原来也是个‘银样蜡枪头’。”宝玉听了，笑道：“你说说，你这个呢？我
也告诉去。“林黛玉笑道：“你说你会‘过目成诵’，难道我就不能‘一目十行’
么？”宝玉一面收书，一面笑道：“正经快把花埋了罢，别提那些个了。”二人便收
拾落花。

正才掩埋妥协，只见袭人走来，说道：“那里没找到？摸在这里来。那边大
老爷身上不好，姑娘们都过去请安，老太太叫打发你去呢，快回去换衣服罢。”宝
玉听了，忙拿了书，别了黛玉，同袭人回房换衣不提。

这里林黛玉见宝玉去了，听见众姐妹也不在房中，自己闷闷的。正欲回
房，刚走到梨香院墙角外，只听见墙内笛韵悠扬，歌声婉转，林黛玉便知是那十
二十女孩子演习戏文。
Precious Jade got alarmed and stopped her, saying, "Dear sister, please forgive me for this time. I has said wrong words. If I meant to insult you, I'll fall into the pond tomorrow and let the tortoise with scabby-head swallow me. Then I will become into a turtle. And when you get the first rank of lady and pass away, I will bear the stone tablet to your grave all my life. " Mascara Jade Forest burst into laughter after hearing that. She wiped her eyes and said, "You are so easy to scare, and you still talk nonsense. ' You are nothing but a flowerless sprout. You are also a lead spearhead that looks like silver'." Precious Jade laughed, "You said this, and I'll tell on you, too." Jade Forest said, " You said you can read once and memorize a passage. Why can't I read ten lines at one glance. " Precious Jade laughed as putting away books, "Don't go on saying it. Let's keep hurrying the flowers. " As soon as they finished burrying, Aroma came and said, "You are here. I'very been looking for you. The elder Master feels unwell, all the ladies gone to inquire after his health. The old lady asks you to go. Come back and get dressed. " Precious Jade then took his books, said goodbye to Jade Forest and went back to his room with Aroma. Since Precious Jade has gone and the other girls are all out, Jade Forest felt glum. When she decided to go back her room, she heard melodious fluting and sweet singing over the wall of Pear Fragrance Court. And she got to know that the twelve girls are practicing performing operas. --[[User:Yuan Jing|Yuan Jing]] ([[User talk:Yuan Jing|talk]]) 01:20, 6 June 2021 (UTC)

Precious Jade got alarmed and stopped her, saying, "Dear sister, please forgive me for this time. I have said wrong words. If I mean to insult you, I'll fall into the pond tomorrow letting the tortoise with scabby-head swallow me. Then I will become into a turtle. And when you get the first rank of lady and pass away, I will bear the stone tablet to your grave all my life. " Mascara Jade Forest burst into laughter after hearing that. She wiped her eyes and said, "You are so easy to scare, and you still talk nonsense. ' You are nothing but a flowerless sprout. You are also a lead spearhead that looks like silver'." Precious Jade laughed, "You said this, and I'll tell on you, too." Mascara Jade said, " You said you can read once and memorize a passage. Why can't I read ten lines at one glance. " Precious Jade laughed as putting away books, "Don't go on saying it. Let's keep hurrying the flowers. " As soon as they finished burrying, Aroma came and said, "You are here. I've been looking for you. The elder Master feels unwell, and all the ladies gone to inquire after his health. The old lady asks you to go. Come back and get dressed. " Precious Jade then took his books, said goodbye to Mascara Jade and went back to his room with Aroma. Since Precious Jade has gone and the other girls are all out, Mascara Jade felt glum. When she decided to go back her room, she heard melodious fluting and sweet singing over the wall of Pear Fragrance Court. And she got to know that the twelve girls are practicing performing operas.--[[User:Zhao Ke|Zhao Ke]] ([[User talk:Zhao Ke|talk]]) 05:34, 9 June 2021 (UTC)

=Zhào Kē 赵轲 Mr.=
虽未留心去听，偶然两句吹到耳内，明明白白一字不落
道：“原来是姹紫嫣红开遍，似这般，都付与断井颓垣。”林黛玉听了，倒也十分感
慨缠绵，便止步侧耳细听，又唱道是：“良辰美景奈何天，赏心乐事谁家院？”听了
这两句，不觉点头自叹，心下自思：“原来戏上也有好文章，可惜世人只知看戏，
未必能领略其中的趣味。”想毕，又后悔不该胡想，耽误了听曲子。再听时，恰唱
到：“只为你如花美眷，似水流年……”黛玉听了这两句，不觉心动神摇。又听
道“你在幽闺自怜”等句，越发如醉如痴，站立不住，便一蹲身坐在一块山子石
上，细嚼“如花美眷，似水流年”八个字的滋味。忽又想起前日见古人诗中有
“水流花谢两无情”之句，再词中又有“流水落花春去也，天上人间”之句，又兼
方才所见《西厢记》中“花落水流红，闲愁万种”之句，都一时想起来，凄聚在一
处。仔细忖度，不觉心痛神驰，眼中落泪。正没个开交，忽觉背后有人击他一
下，及回头看时，原来是个女子，未知是谁，下回分解。

Though she did not pay so much attention, she still caught all the words clearly according to those sentences happened to moving into her ears. It said, “It turns out that those flowers are booming with all kinds of colors, but all of such things are all burned into ruins.” Mascara Jade Forest heard that, filled with a thousand regrets. So she stopped and listen more carefully, and then got another sentence that “There is a pleasant day coupled with a fine landscape but I am not in the mood to admire it; in whose house there are those things happened have their mind relaxed and joyful?” Mascara Jade Forest could not help nod and sigh after those two sentences. She muse, “So actually there are some perfect articles in dramas. However, ordinary people are only able to watch shows and get no awareness of such fun.” At the next moment she regretted for her conjectures with blindness and disorder, which wasted her time of watching the drama. When her attention was back, she heard that “Only for your flowers-like beauty but years pass by quickly… ” Mascara Jade felt a sense of touch after hearing that. Then there came other words like “You are lamenting yourself lonely in your secluded boudoir.” and so on, which caused her feeling of indulging. Failing to keep standing, she sat on a stone and considered the word “Only for your flowers-like beauty but years pass by quickly… ” carefully. Suddenly she reminded that the day before yesterday she happened to see sentences in predecessor’s poems, which are that “Water runs and flowers fade away, which are both ruthless.” and “The spring has gone just like water runs away and flowers fade away; the past is like heaven but today only leaves ruins.” Together with the sentence listened just now in Romance of the Western Chamber, “When flowers fell into running water it becomes red, which bring thousands of melancholy to people.” she finally got all those sentences.Pitifully and sorrowfully, she shed tears after her considering. At this time, there was a person who suddenly touched her. She turned her head and figured out that’s a woman. We will know who she is in next chapter.--[[User:Zhao Ke|Zhao Ke]] ([[User talk:Zhao Ke|talk]]) 10:47, 5 June 2021 (UTC)

Though she did not pay so much attention, she still caught all the words clearly according to those sentences happened to move into her ears. It said, “It turns out that those flowers are booming with all kinds of colors, but all of such things are all burned into ruins.” Mascara Jade Forest heard that, filled with a thousand regrets. So she stopped and listened more carefully, and then got another sentence that “There is a pleasant day coupled with a fine landscape but I am not in the mood to admire it; in whose house there are those things happened have their mind relaxed and joyful?” Mascara Jade Forest could not help nod and sigh after those two sentences. She mused, “So actually there are some great articles in dramas. However, ordinary people watch shows only but get no awareness of such fun.” At the next moment she regretted for her conjectures with blindness and disorder, which wasted her time of watching the drama. When her attention was back, she heard that “Only for your flowers-like beauty but years pass by quickly… ” Mascara Jade felt a sense of touch after hearing that. Then there came other words like “You are lamenting yourself lonely in your secluded boudoir.” and so on, which caused her feeling of indulging. Failing to keep standing, she sat on a stone and considered the word “Only for your flowers-like beauty but years pass by quickly… ” carefully. Suddenly she reminded that the day before yesterday she happened to see sentences in predecessor’s poems, which are that “Water runs and flowers fade away, which are both ruthless.” and “The spring has gone just like water runs away and flowers fade away; the past is like heaven but today only leaves ruins.” Together with the sentence listened just now in Romance of the Western Chamber, “When flowers fell into running water it becomes red, which bring thousands of melancholy to people.” she finally got all those sentences.Pitifully and sorrowfully, she shed tears after her consideration. At this time, there was a person who suddenly touched her. She turned her head and figured out that’s a woman. We will know who she is in next chapter.--[[User:Bao Qinwen|Bao Qinwen]] ([[User talk:Bao Qinwen|talk]]) 16:00, 8 June 2021 (UTC)