Hao Qiu Zhuan/en-wilkinson/Chapter 3

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Chapter 3: Miss Shui's Bold Ruse: Transplanting the Flower

From: Hau Kiou Choaan, or The Pleasing History. Translated by James Wilkinson, edited by Thomas Percy (London, 1761)

Note: This text was digitized via OCR from the original 1761 print. Some scan errors may remain -- compare with the modern translation and Chinese original to verify.

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CHAP. VI. IT T was now a month that Kwo-khé- tzu had sent his present; when ha- ving ving fitted up his house and prepared every thing for his marriage, he chofe a fortunate day, and sent to ac- quaint Shuey-guwin that he should come on the morrow to setch home his bride. A piece of news, which the latter received with much satisfaction. He went immediately to inform his niece of it, and desired her to make all suitable preparations. "I have no need, said she, to prepare any thing about me, otherwise than it is.” "Ah! ah! said he, you are merry; you know better: you do but jeft with me." When he came home, he told his fami- ly, that he believed his niece had loft her senses: "She talks of making no preparation for her wedding. 'Tis very whimsical; but perhaps it is only talk: she • she will doubtless to-night comply with custom and get things in order. Early to-morrow I will go again and see what she has done." The next day Kwo-khé-tzu, accord- ing to his promife, sent his gilded chair, his trumpets and music, with a long train of attendants, all in great magni- ficence and order, to the house of Shuey- guwin. He immediately run to his niece to tell her to get ready, for that the chair was come for her. "What is it you would have me get ready, replied she hastily? Am I not well enough as I am ?” "Are you so ig- not to know what you ought to do? Has not the bride- groom sent his chair for you? He is norant, said he, as alfo alfo coming to conduct you himself*. Does not he not shew you great honour and respect? Why then do you talk at this ridiculous rate?" "What is all that to me, replied the young Lady? I have nothing to say to it, it only relates to my sister your daughter." Shuey-guwin in the greatest confternation at these words, was not able to speak for some time: at last he said; "Is it not for your fake that this young gentleman hath taken so much pains, and put himself to all this trouble and expence ? Whom then does he come for? My daughter, do you say, that is as ugly as

• It is only in some provinces (but chiefly the

northern ones) that the bridegroom goes in per- son to conduct home the bride. See P. Semedo, p. 72. + See note to p. 75. an cc Can evil genius or demon ||, in comparison of you? no such thing." My father, answered the young lady, is in disgrace; he is banished afar off, and has com- mitted all he has here to my care: in this situation, how can I marry?" "Nay, said he in deep concern, if you are not difposed to marry, who will go about to force you? But why then did you give me your eight letters of Nean- kung?" "Uncle, said she, you was then asleep, and are not yet awake. I should be a fool indeed to give you any such writing while I was averfe to mar- It is chiefly the fects of Fo and Tao-tsë that believe the existence of evil spirits called Yen, whose business it is to torment the souls of the wicked in another life, &c. Their ignorance of nature makes the Chinese attribute its most common effects to some evil genius or demon. See P. Du Halde, vol. 1. p. 664,675. vol. 2. 235. riage. riage." "What, said he, did not I procure you the coloured paper? and did not you yourself write upon it ?” "If it was so, she replied, let me see it.” Shuey-guwin hafted home: My niece, said he to his sons and daugh- ter, refuses to marry Kwo-khé-tzu; and denies that the Nean-kung was of her writing." Then he took the paper and went to her house. "Here! said he holding it out, will you deny this to be your own hand-writing?" "I acknowledge the writing, replied she: I deny it not but if the eight let- ters are found to be mine, I'll be content to marry. Pray uncle, do

• Viz. the original writing from which the let-

ters of gold, that were fixed on the silk, had been copied. you ~66 you know when I was born?" "Doubtlefs, said he, I do : you were born on the fifteenth day of the eighth moon, at ten o'clock: I remember it perfectly well; it was a feast day, and I was making merry with your your father" Very well, Sir, said she; and when was my cousin Ghiang-koo born, your daughter?" "I must certainly, said he, be well acquainted with my daughter's birth: it was on the fixth day of the fixth moon, in the middle of the day." "Pray, Sir, then, proceeded she, when you took the paper with you, did not you observe the eight letters written upon it: they are as follows;"-here The repeated them -"The writing, you see, relates to your daughter; I am am no way concerned in it: why then do you give me so much trouble and perplexity ?" Shuey-guwin at this was greatly di- fturbed, "However, it is sufficient, he cried out in a rage; I saw you write it, and it matters not in what manner it was done." Seeing him begin to make a disturbance, she said to him calmly; "Sir, you must not be so warm: pray go and consult one that can divine*, and let him see whether those eight letters belong to me or your

• See note, p. 83. Diviners, foothsayers and

aftrologers no where meet with greater encou ragement than in China: the market places and streets are every where full of them, where they keep open fhop with their tables of calculation, and scarce any thing is done without consulting them. See P. Semedo, p. 93. P. Du Halde, &c. daugh- A CHINESE HISTORY. ros daughter." She argued in vain, he became still more angry and began to rave and stamp with his feet; saying that she only sought to do him pre- judice. "However, said he, it is no matter; you cannot hurt me; truth is truth. Both the Che-foo and Che-bien folicited your consent: the whole city knows of the young gentleman's pre- sent. How then can you say it is no concern of yours? you are extreme- ly blameable." If it was me, whom Kwo-kbé-tzu designed to marry, she replied, why did not he order his present to be brought to me here at my own house ? The Tieh-tfe and letter of compliments, run in your name and therein you only speak of your daughter; there is not the leaft mention mention of me." "How can you. thus embroil the matter, said her un- cle? the letter relates alone to you, and the form of it was agreed on between us." If you had no daugh- ter, resumed she, then you might have bestowed that title upon me without reserve it is not unusual, it is true, to reckon the nieces for daughters, but they are always diftinguished by elder and younger: but since in your› paper 'tis written fimply, my daughter, it can be only understood of Ghiang- koo my cousin. If you will force this marriage upon me, how will it appear reasonable to any Mandarine with whom a petition may chance to be lodged?" "To so much talk and prate, replied Shuey-guwin, it is in vain to give an- fwer. f fwer. Very well! very well! said he in a violent passion, your design I see is to plague and kill me. If we had. proceeded thus far with a man of the lowest rank, how should we avoid trouble and disgrace? much more with such a person as this, who is a youth of great resentment, and whofe father is prefered to such power at court. Your abrupt refusal! what disturb- ance, trouble and confusion will it cause? I shall certainly be ashamed to shew head: you my will force me to lay aside all respect of kindred. I must go lodge a complaint against you be- fore a Mandarine; then how will you be able to unravel and clear up so long a story before him? or how will you avoid

• The women in China are kept so reclufe,

and avoid expofing yourself to a great deal of shame?" All this he spoke with tears in his eyes. 66 Uncle, answered Shuey- ping-fin, I shall not make so long a story of it, as you may imagine: 1. shall only say that you, who are my uncle, taking advantage of my father's ab- fence, would force me, who am left a young and helpless maid, to marry, in • A and converse so little with the men, that to be. obliged to appear before a court of justice, and there to enter into a long detail of facts, may well be supposed very terrible to them. The Chinese women not only immure them- felves in their apartments, into which scarce their nearest relations of the opposite sex are permitted to enter, but it is even thought inde- cent for them when they falute a man to use the common Chinese form l'an so, or All happiness to you; their falute is therefore confined to a silent curt'fey, which they make in the same manner as the ladies in Europe. Even in the prison and the grave, where all distinctions commonly ceafe, that of fex is not forgotten in China: in both these the men and women are most carefully fe- parated. P. Du Halde, vol. 1. p. 281, 293, 310, 555. vol. 2. p. 49, 50, 77. order order to take possession of my fub- ftance. This will make you appear in so criminal a light, that you will not be able to hold up your head." Shuey-guwin was a good deal alarmed at these words, and began to be more calm. "I would not willingly, said he, bring a petition before a Mandarine; but if I do not, how shall I extricate myself out of thefe difficulties?" "Un- cle, said the young lady, if you will lay aside your ungenerous intentions against me, I'll undertake to bring you off clear." Shuey-guwin wiping his eyes replied, "Alas! that I fear is im- possible; it is not in the power of a Saint†to deliver me." "Pursue my directions, It is chiefly among the followers of the two idola- directions, proceeded she, and this sorrow shall be turned into joy." "Alas! said he, at a time when life and death are indifferent to me, what hope can I have of so favourable a change? However, I would know how you propose to assist me in this affair, so that this young man's re- sentment may not fall on my head." "Attend then, said she, and do ex- idolatrous fects of Fo and Tao-tsë that there are (worshiped in China a kind of Saints or Heroes under the name of Sien-jin, or immortal men. Thefe are commonly represented by little images. P. Du Halde, vol. 1. p. 649, 674, &c. The name of Shing or Saint is alfo given by the feet of the Literati or Philofophers, (whofe re- ligion is more pure and uncorrupt) to some of their ancients as have been uncommonly diftin- guished for their virtue and wisdom : they ex- plain the word Shing to mean such as have ar- rived to the utmost pitch that man by his faculties can attain unto. Vid. Confucius five Scien. Sin. p. 52. N. B. The former seem to be chiefly intended in this history. actly ? } actly as I would have you: if I mistake not, my cousin Ghiang-koo is just seventeen, of a sit age to be mar- ried, you have now a fine opportunity. of doing it send her in my ftead, and all the difficulty is over." At these words he hung down his head and paused at length looking up with a mixture of joy and terror, he said, "Well, but your cousin is very, or- dinary and disagreeable in her person; and if the should marry Kwo-khé-tzu, he will not like her, and so I shall still be involved in trouble *." 66 Uncle, the replied, leave, that to me: in other As the Chinese marriages are altogether brought about by the intervention of some third person, and the bridegroom never fees the bride till she is brought home to him; so when he first opens the chair, if he finds he has been deceived in his account of her, he may have his remedy in sending her back, provided he will be other respects there's nothing irregu- lar; the eight letters are rightly and truly your daughter's: 'tis as true that the present came to your house:: all this is notorious. The Tieh-tfe run in your name: and in the letter of compliments you say, my daughter : in consequence of all this the chair is now come to your house: then what should hinder you from sending my cousin? on the other hand consider the credit it will be to have him for your son-in-law does not all this afford you pleasure?" At this the countenance of Skuey-guwin began to clear up: he smiled and said, "Daughter and cou- fin, how came you, that are a little be content to lofe the presents, &c. which he made her. In this cafe the persons that deceived m are liable to be punished. P. Du Halde, vol. 1. p. 304, 305, &c. helplefs A CHINESE HISTORY. r09 helpless and lonely maid, to be pof- feffed of so much ingenuity, as at once thus to kill me and restore me to life? "Sir, replied his niece, it was never my desire to deceive you : this affair was all your own feek- ing to give me disturbance." "E- nough, said he, let that be for- gotten one thing yet remains; your cousin is very aukward, and neither knows how to dress herself out, nor to behave as she ought, on such an occasion you must go to assist, and inftruct her." "I will go, said she, and if any thing be wanting, let me have the blame." 6.50 She took accordingly two of her maids, and went to dress up her cousin other respects there's nothing irregu- lar; the eight letters are rightly and truly your daughter's: 'tis as true that the present came to your house: all this is notorious. The Tieh-tse run in your name: and in the letter of compliments you say, my daughter: in consequence of all this the chair is now come to your house: then what should hinder you from sending my cousin? on the other hand consider the credit it will be to have him for your son-in-law does not all this afford you pleasure?" At this the countenance of Shuey-guwin began to clear up: he smiled and said, "Daughter and cou- fin, how came you, that are a little be content to lofe the presents, &c. which he made her. In this cafe the persons that deceived him are liable to be punished. P. Du Halde, vol. 1. p. 304, 305, &c. helplefs A CHINESE HISTORY. rc9 helpless and lonely maid, to be pof- feffed of so much ingenuity, as at once thus to kill me and restore me to life? "Sir, replied his niece, it was never my desire to deceive you : this affair was all your own feek- ing to give me disturbance." " E- nough, said he, let that be for- gotten one thing yet remains; your cousin is very aukward, and neither knows how to dress herself out, nor to behave as she ought, on such an occasion you must go to assist, and inftruct her." "I will go, said she, and if any thing be wanting, let me have the blame." .6.0 She took accordingly two of her maids, and went to dress up her cousin; in in order to which she caused her to bathe and wash herself clean from head to foot, to whiten her teeth, to form her eye-brows, and put on cloaths per- fumed with the sweeteft wood and gums: this took them up a good part of the day: she then instructed her, when she was brought to the house of the bridegroom to behave herself with reserve and modesty; and on coming into his own apartment when he should advance to take off her veil, to run and hide herself in the curtains. She alfo instructed the two waiting women, when they were to offer him wine to

• After the bride is brought home, and has

performed the four reverences to heaven in the great hall, and the same to her husband's rela- tions, she is then led into the inner apartment, &c. where she and her husband usually drink what A CHINESE HISTORY. III to be as liberal of it as possible, and when he should have a mind to retire, to be sure to put out the lights. Then ordering the maids to withdraw and get themselves ready, she took the op- portunity of their absence to proceed as follows: "The next morning when the bridegroom fees you, he will per- haps be angry to find you not so handsome as he expected: in that case you must throw yourself into violent fits of crying, and offer to lay violent hands on yourself; this will doubtless what is called the cup of alliance; after which they sit down together to an entertainment, &c. but sometimes the bridegroom stays and makes merry with his relations; on all which occasions the wine flows about freely. As for the bride, she is put into the hands of the female relations who are present. P. Semedo, p. 72. P. Du Halde, vol. 1. p. 303, 632. vol. 2. p. 43, 45, 122, 172. make 'TIO HAU KIOU CHOAAN. in order to which she caused her to bathe and wash herself clean from head to foot, to whiten her teeth, to form her eye-brows, and put on cloaths per- fumed with the sweetest wood and gums: this took them up a good part of the day: she then instructed her, when she was brought to the house of the bridegroom to behave herself with reserve and modesty; and on coming into his own apartment when he should advance to take off her veil, to run and hide herself in the curtains. She alfo instructed the two waiting women, when they were to offer him wine *, to

• After the bride is brought home, and has

performed the four reverences to heaven in the great hall, and the same to her husband's rela- tions, she is then led into the inner apartment, &c. where she and her husband usually drink what to be as liberal of it as possible, and when he should have a mind to retire, to be sure to put out the lights. Then ordering the maids to withdraw and get themselves ready, she took the op- portunity of their absence to proceed as follows: "The next morning when the bridegroom fees you, he will per- haps be angry to find you not so handsome as he expected: in that cafe you must throw yourself into violent fits of crying, and offer to lay violent hands on yourself; this will doubtless what is called the cup of alliance; after which they sit down together to an entertainment, &c. but sometimes the bridegroom stays and makes merry with his relations; on all which occasions the wine flows about freely. As for the bride, the is put into the hands of the female relations who are present. P. Semedo, p. 72. P. Du Halde, vol. 1. p. 303, 632. vol. 2. p. 43, 45, 122, 172. make make him afraid, and prevent his of- fering you any ill treatment." Ghiang- koo promised to observe all her di- rections and then they took their leaves of each other. Kwo-kbé-tzu was now arrived to setch home his bride. Shuey-guwin "You are very went in to see her. fine, said he, there wants nothing now but a veil for your face: when that is covered you will be perfectly hand- some." Then taking her in his arms he carried and seated her in the chair. That ceremony over, the bridegroom mounting his horse with great con- tent, went before the chair towards his house there he ordered the gates to be thrown open, and desired his female female relations to be ready to receive her. He beheld her with great de- light as he got out of the chair, and her face being covered the ap- peared to him like a Saint or Angel *. Then walking by her side into the great hall, their friends and relations made them their compliments. After this they retired into his apartment, where he went to take off her veil : upon which, according to her cousin's advice, she ran and hid herself in the bed. The bridegroom then ordered the table to be covered, but Ghiang-koo would not come to sit down. The wait- ing women desired him to seat himself. and drink first. He said, "No: your mistress is ashamed now, and out of mo- defty will not shew herself, yet perhaps

• See notes pag. 17, 41, 105. .

I would would be glad to take some refresh- ment: therefore to fave her blushes, I'll retire a little while she comes out, and will go and eat with my friends and acquaintance." His relations afk- ed him why he left the lady, and if it were not usual for the bride and bride- groom to eat together?" Shuey-ping- fin*, replied he, is a woman of great fashion

• It may be proper to observe here once for

all, that in the Translator's manuscript she is never spoken of by her proper name, except by her parents or superiors, but instead thereof by that of Shuey-frauw-tze, or tfieh, that is, Shuey the young Lady or Mandarine's daughter: it being unpolite in China, as well as with us, to call persons of any rank by their bare proper names: only the Chinese range the complimentary title differently, putting it after the name. In the same manner Kwo-khé-tzu, Tieh-chung-u, and the reft, are always spoken of (except in the cafes above mentioned) by the name of Kwo or Tieh-cong-tzu, i. e. Tieh a Mandarine's son. Un- lefs when they are addressed by an inferior, or when some particular respect is intended; and then it isTich-fiang-coon, rendered by the Tran- flator fashion and delicacy: she ought to be treated with suitable respect, and hath certainly now a just claim to indul- gence." Her relations acknowledged it was very kind and respectful: then inviting him to sit down and partake of their entertainment, they quickly fell to drinking, plying one another* so fast, that Kwo-khé-tzu became very much fuddled. When all the guefts were retired, he went into the bride's chamber; and seeing it full of lights, he approached the bed, flator T. the young Gentleman; tho' he acknow- ledges it to mean something more, and to be equivalent to his or your bonour, worship, &c. with us. To prevent confusion the Editor chofe to retain only the proper name every where. In the Translator's manuscript it is "ply- ing one another left and right hand man." This is only mentioned as it is probably the Chinese idiom. and and asked her why she did not take her repofe? why she stayed for him, and hindered herself from sleeping with so many tapers? Ghiang-koo, as he opened the curtains, turned aside her face, and ordered her women to put out the lights. They hesitated, observing that he was not undressed; but he said,, "Whatever your new lady orders, obey her defer it not upon my account. They obeyed him and retired †. The laws the Editor hath prescribed to himself of fuppreffing nothing however ridicu lous, oblige him to inform the reader that the Chinese Author concludes this paragraph with a passage, that will not fail to make him fmile, viz. They obeyed him and retired. Kwo-khé- "tzu then ftretching out his hands to find his " way to the bed, said, "Ah! she is asleep: "I will pull off my cloaths and go to sleep "too." This probably did not so much proceed from fimplicity in the Author, as from an affectation of modesty. The Chinese are a very affected people, and all affectation leads to abfurdity. The $ A CHÍNESE HISTORY. 117 The next morning an hour or two after it was day, as he was going to rife and put on his cloaths, he saw the ugly face of his wife. He could not for some time believe his senses: "Surely, said he aloud rubbing his eyes, "the Shuey-ping-fin which I saw, was exquifite- ly beautiful: but who are you? you are "not the bride for whom I contracted." "Why not, answered Ghiang-koo? but I am." "I expected a lady compleatly -handsome, said he, and here is an ill-fa- voured monster indeed." Then starting up in a rage, he vented his fury in ex- clamations against Shuey-guwin, pouring ´on his head a thousand curfes. Ghiang- koo hearing him thus abuse her father, calling him dog and villain so to deceive him, was highly troubled “What, said she, am not I your wife, and is not my my father your father-in-law and do you treat him with no more respect, than thus to abuse him in my hearing?" Kwo-kbé-tzu at this was the more per- plexed: ""Tis enough, said he, I am foundly cheated! and is Shuey-guwin really your father ?" "Is he, said she? most certainly you must know no- thing: you must be very dull of ap- prehenfion to doubt it. Why, Shuey- ping-fin is my younger sister; the daughter of my uncle. If you would have married her, why did not you go to her own house, and ask for her there? The Nean-kung you received is really mine: the Tieh-tse run in the name of my father. In his letter he writes, my daughter. 'Twas to his house your present was brought: and thither you came yourself to setch me away. All All the city knows I was carried out of his house, and no other. I am of a family very much honoured and re- fpected; and for you, to whom I am newly married, to treat me and my friends with all this scorn and abufe, is it possible I should bear it? No: I will never live under so much indignity. I will sooner die a thousand deaths." Then working herself up into the greatest tranfport of rage and grief, she fell to stamp and beat herself furi- oufly and fnatching up a fafh that lay in the room, was going to ftrangle herself with it. Kwo-khé-tzu alarmed at this violence; and fearing the trouble and disgrace in which it would involve him and his family should such an ac- cident happen within his own apart- ment', ment, and to his new-married bride, flew to her instantly and held her arm: then in a foothing manner begged her to attribute his words to the wine he had drank over-night; it being usually his misfortune to be passionate after it: that she should not be so moved by a few inconsiderate expref- fions but that now they were married, they should endeavour to live in peace and amity. CHAP. VII.* KWo-kbé-t Wo-khé-tzu having thus married a wife, who was his averfion, in all respects the reverse of Shuey-ping-fin, was greatly perplexed and disturbed in his mind. "And yet, said he to him- self, although Ghiang-koo my bride is very ugly, she hath a great deal of rea-

• CHAP. IV. in the Translator's manuscript.

son son for what she says: and if she should do herself any violence, it will be attri- buted to me." He therefore ordered his servants to keep along with her, and take care no harm happened to her in his absence. This done, he went to visit the Che- foo; to whom with a heavy heart he re- lated the villainous trick Shuey-guwin had played him; who after carrying him to see his niece, and encouraging a marriage contract between them, had put his ugly daughter upon him in her ftead: "I have also been, said he, at vast expence in this affair; yet that I regard not; but to be thus out-witted and made a a jest of, I cannot endure: I hope therefore, he added, as you, Sir, are acquainted with my father, for fake of his honour you will not suffer me to be so fcandalously imposed on.” Certainly, replied that Mandarine, Shuey-guwin hath done very ill in put- ing this abuse upon you: but you your- self have been alfo to blame; you should have proceeded on greater cer- tainty. Why did not you send the nuptial present to the house of the young lady herself? When you received the eight letters, why did not you cause inquiry to be made whether they were truly hers? The papers of invitation were in the name of her uncle: yester- day you went yourself to his house: and you have accordingly brought away his daughter: there is nothing irregular in all this. Had you gone to the house of Shuey-ping-fin, and thence carried €6 carried away the other, so flagrant an imposition and fraud had been punish- able. But if you found yourself cheat- ed in your bride, why did not you send her back the same night you were married? then your charge would have procured credit, and you might have obtained redress: now it cannot be had in the ordinary course of justice: we must go more artfully to work. I will send for Shuey-guwin and talk over the mat- ter with him-calmly: perhaps by fair and gentle means I may gradually draw forth a discovery of the truth. But with regard to his carrying you to see his niece, that will not be proper to be laid before the public; neither can it give any advantage to your cause. Go home then, make no more disturbance on the contrary seem contented and happy: happy : above all things carry it kindly to your wife, left you drive her to ex- tremities, that may occasion you infinite trouble." Kwo-khé-tzu finding there was no better course to be taken, thank- ed him and promised to follow his advice. All this while Sbuy-guwin was not more happy he had no sooner sent away his daughter, but he began to apprehend what might follow. He slept not a wink all that night, but getting up in the morning at break of day, sent people to the house of the bride- groom to liften if they could hear any disturbance. Intelligence was brought him that every thing was in profound quiet. He revolved again and again what could be the meaning of this tran- tranquility: he could not account to himself for this paffive conduct of Kwo- kbé-tzu, whose fiery temper he knew very well, and whofe resentment he had so much right to expect. In the midft of reflections of this kind he received a meffage that the Che-foo wanted to see him. Then his mind mifgave him, and he suspected every thing was not right. With an aching heart he waited on that magistrate: who received him into the second hall*, and after the customary falute invited

• The houses of all the Mandarines are pret-

ty much alike. After one or two large courts, round which are small houses for the officers of the tribunal, there is a another court, at the end of which is a great hall, wherein the Mandarine adminifters public justice: lastly follow fuccef- fively two very neat halls for receiving visits, furnished with chairs and other moveables, &c. The courts are large, the gates lofty, and some- times adorned with elegant carvings, but the halls Then order- invited him to sit down. ing all the servants out of the room, he very mildly opened the matter. "Kwo- kbé-tzu, said he, this morning presented a petition to me, wherein he accuses you of very criminal practices. You know that even I interested myself to bring on a marriage between him and your niece: how then could you palm your daughter upon him? You have not only deceived that young noble- man, but me alfo; and thereby shewn me the greatest flight and difrespect imaginable. Now justice demands that this fraud should be punished with the utmoft rigour, and the youth himself infifts upon it but having a respect halls of audience are neither beautiful nor neat. N. B. The houses in China are generally but one story high. P. Le Compte, tom. 1. p. 97. P. Du Halde, vol. 1. p. 284. For for your brother, who was a great Mandarine, I was unwilling to pro- ceed to severities, 'till I had talked over the matter with you in friendship. Pray therefore let me know the whole truth, otherwise I must shew you no favour." Frighted at these words, Shuey-guwin fell on his knees, "Sir, said he, my life is in your hands: how then can I dare to deceive you? Yefter- day's business hath ten thousand intri- cacies in it but it was not of my feek- ing it was a violence upon my incli- nations; and if you will pardon me, I will let you know all that relates to it." The Che-foo bade him rise and speak without reserve. "Let me then in- form you Sir, said he, that my niece, whofe averfion to this marriage is not unknown to yourself, is the fpring and mover and mover of all this confusion. Every step that has been taken was the effect of her management: for the hath a furprizing capacity.. Yesterday when the bridegroom came for his wife, I went to my niece, expect- ing she was ready to go with him: in- ftead of that she flew into a passion, and. refused to comply, infifting upon it that it was no affair of hers; but fug-: gefted to me for my own fecurity, to obtrude my daughter upon him in her ftead: which far from being the result of my own choice or intentions, was merely owing to that necessity to which the had reduced me. This considered therefore, and as it cannot be recalled, let me intreat you to inter- cede with Kwo-khé-tzu to forgive me." "And is your niece indeed so in- genious, genious, said the Che-foo? truly I cannot but admire a lady of such uncommon spirit and understanding. If it be so, justice is difarmed: only I fear this young gentleman will still nourish for her a fruitless passion." "The disap- pointment, said Shuey-guwin, may pof- fibly increase it however as all is now over, and as my niece is quiet and com- posed, nor thinks any longer of a mar-

• In the original it is, "he was very glad to hear

it. I shall have a great love and esteem for her." The Chinese, who are the most subtle crafty people in the world, may naturally be supposed to esteem and admire fubtilty and craft. The reader must have observed that thefe qualities are predominant in the character of Shuey-ping-fin; who is yet set forth by the Chinese author, as a perfect exemplar of all virtue. The Chinese morals, notwithstanding their boafted purity, evidently fall short of the Chriftian, since they know not how to infpire that open and in- genuous fimplicity, void of all guile, which more elevated principles of morality propose to our esteem and imitation. riage riage she hath got clear of so handsome- ly, it will be best not to alarm her afresh, but to let the affair sleep, at least for the present. Yet if he will not be pre- vailed on to forget her; let him wait a little with patience: I hope yet for an opportunity to obtain her for him." The Mandarine, glad to hear him speak thus, said, "If you can still effect this marriage, you will entirely disarm all resentment, and convince the world you were no way blameable. But then if this young lady hath so much wit, you will not easily over-reach her." "Now my daughter is married, and all is quiet, he replied, my niece will be no longer on her guard. If you will please to send for the young gentleman, I will talk over the matter here before you.” The The Che-foo afsented, and Kwo-khé- tzu accordingly came. When they had unravelled the whole affair, the youth remained fully satisfied, and told him, "If you will still endeavour to procure me your beautiful niece, I shall entire- ly forget the injury done me, nor shall the less esteem and respect your daugh- ter. But what means can you think of to effect your purpose ?" "I am not unprovided of thefe, said the other. Do you go home, caress and make much of your wife: touch not on the affair of Shuey- ping-fin, nor on any thing that hath past: let no difsatisfaction appear in your face, on the contrary seem contented and happy and on the third, the fixth, the ninth or twelfth day, on any one of thefe, when it is usual to entertain the relations, relations, the men in the outer apart. ments and the women within, let my niece be invited with the reft: you must also intreat the presence of the two Mandarines of the city. The eight letters of Nean-kung you must get changed to those of my niece, whom it will be the principal part of your ma- nagement to induce to come by means of your wife, and by all gentle and per- fuafive methods. Every thing being thus previously disposed, when she is arrived at your house and got into the hall, you must produce the eight letters, and pronouncing them to be hers, tax her with the former deceit she was guilty of, and appeal to the magistrates and company for the right you have to do yourself justice. How after this can can she avoid marrying you ?" Kwo- khé-tzu was charmed with his plausible contrivance, and pronounced it excel- lent. The. Che-foo himself thought it well concerted, yet doubted of its fuc- cefs from the proofs she had given of her great penetration, apprehending she would hardly be induced to come." "Why not, said her uncle? my daugh- ter lives in great harmony with her husband all is quiet: what then should alarm her?" Here they parted. Shuey-guwin went home to his house, and from thence to that of his niece. He dropped not a fyllable that could give her suspicion on the contrary he complimented her on her great inge- nuity, in having extricated him so well out out of all his difficulties. She receiv ed his applaufes with a becoming modesty. "I was this morning, said he, very uneasy and fearful of mif- chief, for which reason I sent fpies to liften if all was right; they brought me back notice that every thing was quiet: perhaps it is so, and he is not disatisfied with my daughter." "I can hardly be persuaded to believe that, she replied; I am well afsured he cannot love her you will yet perhaps hear something about them." "That is by no means likely now," said he as he withdrew who went home admiring the fhrewd and fubtle spirit of his niece, and fearing every thing from so piercing a difcernment. On + On the other hand Kwo-khé-tzu was so fanguine about the success of their artifice, that he thought twelve days as long as so many years: for in crder to remove suspicion, he had brought himself to six on the longest day. Three days therefore before it came, he sent five Tieh-tfe or papers of invita- tion*, one for the young lady, the rest

• The Tieh-tfe, or (as it is rendered by P. Du

Halde) the visiting billet, confifts of a sheet of red paper, flightly embellished with flowers of gold and folded up like a fcreen. On one of the folds is written the name of the person who sends it with the addition of some respectful terms, according to the rank of the person to whom it is sent: they would say for instance, The tender and sincere friend of your Lordship, and the perpetual difciple of your doctrine, presents him- self in this quality to pay his duty, and make his reverence even to the earth. Which is expressed in these words tun-shew-pay. It confifts of only one line of writing. P. Du Halde, vol. 1. p. 296. P. Semedo, p. 60. for for her uncle and his three sons. Shuey- guwin carried that for his niece to her himself. "The day, said he, that I followed your advice and sent away my daughter, I was very apprehensive of bad consequences. You encouraged me and rather foretold a great deal of joy. Your prediction is now verified, and all is right between her and her husband; otherwise he would hardly have sent us thefe invitations: here is one directed for yourself; which, as there will be other female relations there, it will be but right in you to comply with." The young lady af- sented. "If you intend to go then, said her uncle, it is customary always to send some present a day or two before." She agreed it was proper. Upon which he he run and setched the gilded paper and paint for her to write the parti- culars of the present*: in the mean while she desired him to get it ready, for as it was for a new relation, she

• It is the custom in China to accompany

their presents with billets of the particulars. Sometimes they send thefe billets before the presents are bought, intending to purchase those which shall be pitched upon these are selected from the reft by drawing a small circle round them, &c. Then a billet of thanks is returned, wherein mention is made of what is either receiv ed or chofen. If any thing is returned back or refused they add the words Pi-fie, these are precious pearls, I dare not touch them. P. Du Halde, vol. 1. p. 298. N. B. The gilded paper mentioned above, is perhaps only the red paper described in the pre- ceding note as ornamented with the golden flowers. See P. Du Halde, ibid. P. Semedo, p. 60. As we are not informed by the authors just quoted, that they write with a different colour on thefe occasions; by paint in the text is probably meant only ink, which as it in China is ufed with a hair pencil may properly enough be so called. This will be found explained in a future note. would would have it conducted in the gen- teeleft manner. Shuey-guwin obeyed her with great satisfaction, and went to his son-in-law to tell him that his niece would certainly come. "Prepare, said he, the Nean-kung: she suspects no- thing: I told you this was the way to catch her." Kwo-kbé-tzu got ready the piece of silk together with the pro- per letters, and gave them to his wife to six them on. Shuey-guwin had notwithstanding fre quent returns of doubt and distrust, fearing that some whim would seize his niece, and prevent her from going at the time appointed. He went therefore the day before, and advised Kwo-khé- tzu to send two of his maids to know

if if she wovld afsuredly come. He ap- proved of his advice and sent the wo- men accordingly: who together with enquiries after her health, said that her company would give such pleasure to their master and mistress, that they could not be satisfied 'till they had sent to know whether he would certainly favour them with it. She told them, if they had not paid her this compliment she intended to go and wish them joy. This she spoke with a very pleasant countenance, ordering tea to be brought, and appointing them to sit down on one side of the room, While the servants were gone for tea, she asked them; "Hath your mistress been well since he came home?" One of them answered, "She hath been very well, and and paffes her time with much fatis- faction in playing, telling stories, and such diverfions." “This morning, said the other, my master brought her a piece of red twan-ze or taffaty to six something of embroidery upon it." "Flowers I suppose," said Shuey-ping- fin. They were neither flowers, nor any thing in colours, she answered : but something in gold." "Poffibly letters," said the young lady. "Yes, the replied, they were letters." She afked how many pieces there were: and was answered about feven or eight. Then having entertained and given them presents, she difmiffed them, They returned home with answer that the young lady would not fail to come, 66 Twice "Twice, said Kwo-kbé-tzu, have mef fages been sent, they must go again to- morrow which will finish the compli- ment. Accordingly he gave them a gold- en box curiously wrought, in which he inclosed ten large pearls of the finest water and sent them away with pro- per inftructions. Shuey-guwin who was present inquired the meaning of this. “The eight letters, said he, have been followed by no present, for which rea- son I send these jewels." "You are right, said the other; you have as good a head as my niece: you know what be- longs to ceremonies*. When once you

• There is nothing for which the Chinese have

higher veneration than their ceremonies: these are looked upon by them as efsential to the good order and peace of the state. The com- mon you are married what a sensible pair will you two make ?" The maids carried the present in the name of the bride, whofe compliments they presented with a great deal of ce- mon falutations, visits, presents, feasts, &c. &c. being rather so many standing laws than fashions introduced by custom. Among their books upon this subject, there is one that prefcribes upwards of 3000 rules of civility. Far from being dif couraged at their number, the Chinese, who are brought up to them from their infancy, are great- ly pleased with them, and believe for want of the like, other nations become barbarous. One of the principal councils of the empire, called the Li-pu or Tribunal of Rites, is established to watch over the obfervance of them, wherein it is so strict that it will not excuse even foreign ambaffadors from the obligation. P. Du Halde, vol. 1. p. 249. 291. vol. 2. p. 62. Ridiculous as thefe punctilios may appear, to them is owing in a great measure the won- derful stability of the Chinese empire, and its ha- ving fubfifted above 4000 years. Compare on this subject the fine remarks in L'Esprit des Loix, liv. 19. ch. 12, 13, 16, 17, &c. with P. Le Compte, tom. 2. p. 30—49. remony, remony, intreating her ladyship to let their mistress see her as soon as possible, for that he had a thousand things to talk over with her. "She likewise, proceeded they, intreats your accept- ance of this box of pearls: which she gave us to present to you privately as a small acknowledgement for the trou- ble your ladyship had at her wedding." "Thefe pearls, said Shuey ping-fin looking upon the box and its con- tents, are exceedingly precious indeed: if they are to be fold, my house is not valuable enough to purchase them: if they are a present, I dare not be bold enough to accept them: therefore carry them back again to your lady: I will at least defer my acceptance of them till 144 HAU KIOU CHÓAAN. till I see her." The women express'd an unwillingness to carry them back. "Well, said she, on no other condition will I go to your house." The maids not being prepared for this accident, with some difficulty took up the box and carry'd it back with them. By this time arrived Shuey-guwin, who commanded her servants to get ready the chair of state and the Whang- fan or umbrella. His niece hearing him cried out, that so much ceremony and trouble was needlefs. "Needlefs! re- plied he; at the house of your cousin yonder are affembled a great many Mandarines and people of quality; and every thing is disposed with the utmost grandeur: and will not you make a suitable suitable preparation ?" "My father, said she, is in disgrace and banishment: how will it appear for me to affume so much pomp and state at a juncture like this? It will not only expose me to the deri- fion of the world, but should the Em- peror hear of it, he will think that our house contemns his authority. Pray uncle don't give yourself so much trou- ble, when I am able to give orders my- self." "Well then, said Shuey-guwin, if I leave you to yourself; how will you proceed?" "Yesterday, replied she, came here four countrymen, that brought corn with them; two of them I ordered to stay: there is a little chair in the house, which two men can carry they shall attend me with that." "Should you come in that manner, said said her uncle, would you not be more exposed to the laughter of mankind? Would your relations and the other visitants shew you any respect?" "Let me be laught at or affronted, said she, I go notwithstanding no otherwise than I ought." When Shuey-guwin found her so determined, he said, "Enough! it shall be as you please. It is high time for me to go: I hope we shall presently see you there." He then took his three sons with him and departed. Kwo-kbé-tzu, who waited for her ar- rival with the utmost impatience, had sent people to inform him of all her motions: and when he heard that she was preparing to come, was hardly able to contain his joy. He then applied to the the Che-foo and Chi-bien to be witnesses to the marriage: and having sent for four counsellors*, he laid before them the steps he had taken, both the box of jewels which had been sent for a pre- sent, and her writing of eight letters which he had to produce. He then ordered feven or eight lufty women to be ready, who immediately when she was set down were to prevent her from getting away, as alfo from flying into any outrage. He had likewise prepared a chamber for her réception, set off with the richest furniture of gold and silver. Mid-day was now past, when

• Beside the Che-foo and Che-bien, &c. every

city hath nineteen leffer magistrates employed in several Offices fubordinate to the principal: two whereof have a president and four counsellors, &c. P. Semedo, p. 131. intel- you are married what a sensible pair will you two make ?” The maids carried the present in the name of the bride, whofe compliments they presented with a great deal of ce- mon falutations, visits, presents, feasts, &c. &c. being rather so many standing laws than fashions introduced by custom. Among their books upon this subject, there is one that prefcribes upwards of 3000 rules of civility. Far from being dif couraged at their number, the Chinese, who are brought up to them from their infancy, are great- ly pleased with them, and believe for want of the like, other nations become barbarous. One of the principal councils of the empire, called the Li-pu or Tribunal of Rites, is established to watch over the observance of them, wherein it is so strict that it will not excuse even foreign. ambaffadors from the obligation. P. Du Halde, vol. 1. p. 249. 291. vol. 2. p. 62. Ridiculous as thefe punctilios may appear, to them is owing in a great measure the won- derful stability of the Chinese empire, and its ha- ving fubfifted above 4000 years. Compare on this subject the fine remarks in L'Efprit des Loix, liv. 19. ch. 12, 13, 16, 17, &c. with P. Le Compte, tom. 2. p. 30—49. remony, remony, intreating her ladyship to let their mistress see her as soon as possible, for that she had a thousand things to talk over with her. "She likewise, proceeded they, intreats your accept- ance of this box of pearls: which the gave us to present to you privately as a small acknowledgement for the trou- ble your ladyship had at her wedding." "These pearls, said Shuey ping-fin looking upon the box and its con- tents, are exceedingly precious indeed : if they are to be fold, my house is not valuable enough to purchase them: if they are a present, I dare not be bold enough to accept them: therefore carry them back again to your lady: I will at least defer my acceptance of them till 144 HAU KIOU CHÔAAN. till I see her." The women express'd an unwillingness to carry them back. "Well, said she, on no other condition will I go to your house." The maids not being prepared for this accident, with some difficulty took up the box and carry'd it back with them. By this time arrived Shuey-guwin, who commanded her servants to get ready the chair of state and the Whang- fan or umbrella. His niece hearing him cried out, that so much ceremony and trouble was needlefs. "Needless! re- plied he; at the house of your cousin yonder are affembled a great many Mandarines and people of quality; and every thing is disposed with the utmost grandeur: and will not you make a suitable - suitable preparation?" "My father, said she, is in disgrace and banishment: how will it appear for me to affume so much pomp and state at a juncture like this? It will not only expose me to the deri- fion of the world, but should the Em- peror hear of it, he will think that our house contemns his authority. Pray uncle don't give yourself so much trou ble, when I am able to give orders my- self." "Well then, said Shuey-guwin, if I leave you to yourself; how will you proceed?” “ Yesterday, replied she, came here four countrymen, that brought corn with them; two of them I ordered to stay: there is a little chair in the house, which two men can carry they shall attend me with that.". "Should you come in that manner, said said her uncle, would you not be more exposed to the laughter of mankind? Would your relations and the other visitants shew you any respect ?" "Let me be laught at or affronted, said she, I go notwithstanding no otherwise than I ought." When Shuey-guwin found her so determined, he said, "Enough! it shall be as you please. It is high time for me to go: I hope we shall presently see you there." He then took his three sons with him and departed. Kwo-kbé-tzu, who waited for her ar- rival with the utmost impatience, had sent people to inform him of all her motions: and when he heard that she was preparing to come, was hardly able to contain his joy. He then applied to the the Che-foo and Chi-bien to be witnesses to the marriage: and having sent for four counsellors*, he laid before them the steps he had taken, both the box of jewels which had been sent for a pre- sent, and her writing of eight letters which he had to produce. He then ordered feven or eight lufty women to be ready, who immediately when she was set down were to prevent her from getting away, as alfo from flying into any outrage. He had likewise prepared a chamber for her reception, set off with the richest furniture of gold and silver. Mid-day was now past, when

• Beside the Che-foo and Che-bien, &c. every

city hath nineteen leffer magistrates employed in several Offices fubordinate to the principal: two whereof have a president and four counsellors, &c. P. Semedo, p. 131. intel- intelligence was brought him, that the young lady was set out. He was presently informed she was arrived half way. Transported at the news he instantly planted the music at the gates, ordering them the moment she arrived to found aloud the marriage song*. So great was his impatience, that the chair not instant- ly appearing, he could not forbear going out to look for itt. At a distance he beheld it coming, attended by four well- looking maids, and followed by feven or eight servants. Ravished at the

• The reader is not to understand by this ex-

preffion, that there is any piece of music parti- cularly appropriated to the nuptial solemnity, or always to be used on that occasion. None of the accounts, of China mention any such thing: and the contrary is evident from the beginning of the next chapter, &c. This is to be supposed a piece of levity in- confiftent with the Chinese gravity and decorum. sight, sight, he stay'd in the street till they were got pretty near: he then hafted in, and told the company that his new bride was just at the door. They all wished him joy, except the two Mandarines of the city, who said one to the other, "This young person discovered at first a great deal of fense: but there is a weak- nefs in women, which notwithstanding their wit fails not to appear one time or other; and in this inconftancy they are inferior to men." "This is a poor unfortunate girl, said the other; with all her caution and foresight she at length is fallen into the snare." Scarce had he spoke, when Shuey- ping-fin arrived at the gates; and the four female attendants lifting up the chair, chair, she rose from her seat* in order to go out. At the same inftant the music and trumpets began to found. Struck with the noise, and alarmed at the sight of the eight women planted near the door, she set herself down again in her chair, and turn'd her face aside in great displeasure, saying, "The noise of this ugly music is enough to tear one's head to pieces: it would kill me if I was to go in!" Then immediately she gave a signal to return, and her attendants carried her out of sight in a moment: they came the more flowly, in order to make their retutn the speedier.

• The custom is to sit at the bottom of the

chair or fedan cross-legg'd upon a cushion. And yet these vehicles are made so very low, that the person doth almoft reach the top with her head. Modern Univers. Hist. vol. 8. p. 260. note. CHAP. CHAP. VIII. KWO-kbé-tzu hearing the trumpets and music, never doubted but Shuey-ping-fin had entered the house: nay he pofted himself in a private cor- ner that he might behold her as the passed by having waited some time, and heard the music play twice, he began to wonder that no body appear- ed; but how great was his astonish- ment and confusion, when the eight women came to tell him, his beautiful mistress was gone back again. He en- quired the meaning. They told him that when the music begun to play, she seemed surprized, and instantly fled. He asked why they did not endeavour to stay her? They said, that was im- possible, possible, she was gone so suddenly. He would have sent his people after her, but they afsured him it would be in vain; she must have got home by this time for that she went away as fwift as an arrow. Kwo-khé-tzu raved and stared like a madman: he returned to the hall, and acquainted the Man- darines of the city, together with all his relations and friends. Some of them smiled, all were astonished. "This young woman, said the Che- foo, is a prodigy: to discover his in- tention from the bare playing of the music! What, said he, turning to Shuey-guwin, does your niece study at home any book of divination ?" "When she was a child, replied her uncle, uncle, she would be always with her father poring over his books; so that by often reading and converfing with him, she would tell what days would be fortunate, and what unlucky: when to expect good weather, or bad: but we never used to regard what she said: however the now seems to have a spirit of divination, that from the bare found of the music could discover our intentions." None that were present could help conceiving a great esteem and admira- tion for a lady of so much difcern- ment. Kwo-khé tzu stood overwhelm- ed with the deepest melancholy: at length roufing himself up, he could not help making one other effort, by sendin • sending the two females once more to her house. They were ordered to re- mind her that this was the twelfth day of her cousin's marriage: that her friends and relations were there affem- bled: that their mistress had a par- ticular affection for her, and renewed her intreaties that she would not dif- appoint her of her company, it being a pleasure she had so much depended on: and that their master had the utmoft esteem and respect for her. All this they punctually delivered: adding far- ther, that they were surprized her lady- fhip should return, after she had once come to the door: that the music was now removed; and therefore they hop- ed nothing would prevent her from going again. She She replied: "As I thought the invitation I received from your lady and her spouse, flowed from sincere and undesigning friendship, I esteemed it my duty to comply with it: how far it proceeded from finifter views, is best known to themselves. But if there was nothing extraordinary intended, how came the eight letters to be changed? What was meant yesterday by the pre- sent of pearls? What brought the Che-foo, and Che-bien, who I have dif covered were at his house? Was it not with a view of trepanning me into a marriage with your master? Thank Heaven* the music at the door pre- served

• It is thus that the Chinese generally speak of

Divine Providence: see pag. 17. of this hist. & paffim: ¦ served me but for that friendly alarm I had now been at his difpofal. [Then wiping her eyes, for she could not re- frain from tears when the thought of paffim and here it may not be improper to ob- serve, that although the vulgar are chiefly of the idolatrous fects of Fo and Tao-tse, yet the Lite- rati, Mandarines, &c. profefs no other religion than that prescribed in their ancient classical books, which is the worship of one Supreme Being, the Lord and fovereign Principle of all things, under the name of Shang-ti, i. e. Supreme Emperor but more frequently under that of Tien, or Heaven: which their interpreters explain to mean, that Spirit which presides in HEAVEN, because HEAVEN is the most excellent work produced by this firft cause. The same books enjoyn to honour, but (as the missionaries pretend) with a fubordinate worship, inferior spirits which preside over cities, rivers, mountains, &c. None but the Emperor sacrifices to Heaven, which he does in a magnificent temple three or four times a a year. After all moft of the modern Literati understand the word Tien, &c in their ancient books in a low material sense, and are down- right atheists. See P. Du Halde, vol. 1. p. 640, 658. &c. P. Semedo, p. 96. the the narrow escape she had had ;] Go home, proceeded she, and together with my humble services to your maf- ter, advise him to live peaceably and lovingly with his wife: for that he and myself are never formed to come together: it will therefore be his wifeft way to defift from all future attempts, and to trouble me no more." When this answer was reported to the Magistrates and the company, their admiration was still increased, and they looked upon her as no lefs then a pro- phetess however as they had been in- vited to a feast, and had been waiting a great while, they desired it might be served up; and after they had eaten, took their leaves and departed. When When all the company was gone: "Certainly, said Kwo khé-tzu to Shuey- guwin whom he had detained still with him your niece is a woman of un- common penetration: and yet all this may be accounted for, without fup- pofing her possessed of fupernatural powers: perhaps she and you have agreed together to play me these tricks: and it was from yourself she learnt my designs." Shuey-guwin, piqued at this suspicion, not only denied it with the moft vehement affeverations, but of- fered to take his solemn oath * of it. He After a very clofe enquiry among the wri- ters concerning China, the Editor hath not been able to meet with any account of the Chinese Oaths or Forms of fwearing, nor of the cere- monies attending it. But this is not the only emiffion, which we have reason to complain of in I He accepted this offer, and remained satisfied: then desiring him to sit down by in the descriptions which thofe gentlemen give of the civil and religious rites of China. That the Chinese are not without Forms of Swearing, appears not only from the text, but from the following Authors. The first is Marti- nius, who in his Atlas Sinenfis. (pag. 13.) tells us, that in every city, among other idol-tem- ples," is a magnificent one to its guardian "Genius, in which although idols are at pre- "sent facrilegiously worshiped: yet there was "a time when they only acknowledged the "tutelar Spirit. Here all the Magistrates, "when first they enter upon their office, TAKE AN OATH (Sacramentum dicunt) by which they promise to discharge it faithfully, and to "have regard to justice: calling upon the Spirit to bear witness and to punish their default." Ogilby hath copied this account, and from this or some other writer adds, "In ancient times "instead of images in these temples, was only a "board written with characters [of gold] to this "effect, The seat of the guardian Angel of the city. "But in thefe latter times they have used ima- "ges instead of boards to represent their protect- ors, so to strike the greater awe on those that "take the Oath [of allegiance] vol. 2. p. 547." Picart gives the same passages, and tells us that the Mandarines, not only when they enter on by him, he said, "When firft I saw your niece, I fell in love with her for her on any poft do homage in the first place to the Chin-hoan or guardian Genius, and take the Oath, &c. but that this homage must be repeat- ed twice a year. See vol. 4. p. 220. Martinius alfo tells us of the Chinese, that PEJERANTES, obfcenave loquentes audire rarum eft." Which however proves the existence of the thing. Atlas Sin. p. 9. ፡፡ That forms of fwearing are familiar to the Chi- nefe, appears alfo from a curious passage in The Travels of P. Gerbillon, &c. into Tartary in 1689, as given us by P. Du Halde, vol. 2. the length of which the reader will excuse. That father, who was present at the treaty concluded between the Ruffians and Chinese for settling their respective frontiers, tells us, that after each party had sign ed and sealed the two copies that were to be de- livered to the other, viz. the Chinese, one in Tartarian and the second in Latin; and the Rufians one in their own language and the other in Latin; after this the ambaffadors rifing all together, and holding each the copies of the treaty, "wore in the names of their masters to "observe them faithfully, taking Almighty "God, the Sovereign Lord of all things, to "witness to the sincerity of their intentions. "Our ambaffadors, (adds the father, meaning "the Chinese,) had express orders from the Emperor, to wear the peace by the GOD of "the her beauty, but now were the more ugly than Ghiang-koo, I should admire her no lefs "the Christians, believing nothing could influ- 66 ence the Ruffians more to the obfervance of "it, than their knowing it was fworn in the name of the TRUE GOD. Our ambaffadors "had composed the form of an Oath, which I "shall here faithfully tranflate, the better to "shew their genius." The Oath itself is too long to be here infert- ed but after observing that effufion of blood, c. is intirely contrary to the will of Heaven, which is a friend to publick tranquillity, and after giving the heads of the treaty, it concludes in this re- markable manner, But should any one have the thought only or secret design to tranfgrefs these ar- ticles of peace, or breaking his word and faith, should violate them out of private interest, or from the design of exciting new troubles and of rekind ling the fire of war, we pray the Supreme LORD of all things, who knows the bottom of men's hearts, not to suffer such people to live out their days, but to punish them by an untimely death. "It was the design (he adds) of the Chinese "ambaffadors to have read this form of Oath "before an image of the God of the Chriftians, "and to have adored him by proftrating them- "felves on the ground according to their custom, "and then to have burnt the said formula signed "with lefs for her ingenuity and wit. I am diftracted to obtain her: you must still contrive some way to oblige me." "with their hand, and sealed with the seal of "the Emperor's troops. But the Rufians said "each party should fwear after their own man- For this reason our ambaffadors drop- ped their own formula.... and fwore in the in the same terms with the Ruffians." Ibid. pag. 315. Let. ed. vij. 195. "ner. But that the Chinese are not unacquainted with Forms of Swearing, and that they readily adopt thofe of other nations, appears alfo from a Let- ter of P. Jartoux in the Lettres edifiant. & curieus. jx. 403. where we are told, but in general terms, that to remove certain fcruples of the Miffiona- ries, the heir apparent Swore upon the faith of a Prince, and moreover drew a Cross upon the ground, and Swore by the Cross. See also P. Du Halde, vol. 1. p. 385. Upon the whole then it may be inferred from the above extracts, that the manner of Swearing in China is to fall proftrate before the image of one of their Genij, Spirits, &c. calling upon him to atteft the truth and integrity of their words or actions, and to punish any deviation from it. Fide Mart. Hift. p. 12. The length of this note it is hoped will be ex- cused, as it is upon a subject, which perhaps is no where profeffedly treated of, but in this book. After After a profound silence of some mi- nutes, Shuey-guwin started up and said, "I have at length discovered means which I think cannot fail." Kwo-kbé-tzu was all attention. "The twentieth day of the ninth moon, proceeded the other, is the anniversary of her mother's death, when it was her yearly custom to go to her tomb, and there to burn incense and offer up sacrifice*: at which time she receives

• As the Chinese are diftinguished for filial

piety beyond all other nations, so they seem to carry this to an idolatrous excefs. Various and exceffive are the honours which they pay to their deceased parents and ancestors. *Before the dead are interred, while the corpfe lies in state they make many proftrations, and offer per- fumes, flowers, lighted tapers, &c. before it. They afterwards observe a long time of mourn- ing [three years for a father or the Emperor] during which time they wear coarse white gar

• Dionyf. Kao. p. 179, n.

ments, receives her rents of the neighbouring villages, and walks and amufes herself for ments, and must retire from all publick em- ployments, &c. They afterwards every spring and autumn meet in an apartment called, The Hall of their Ancestors, where all the descendants of the family affemble, and burn perfumes, offer delicate viands, &c. before their images, their pictures, or at least their names. The last ho- nours the Chinese pay to their deceased parents is to refort once a year to their burial places; which are built without the city, generally upon some eminence, and planted round with pine and cypress trees, diverfified with little groves, &c. After clearing the fepulchres from weeds and bushes, they make the same expressions of veneration, gratitude and grief, which they ob- served at their death. Then they offer up on the tomb, wine and victuals, with which they afterwards regale themselves. The Jefuits al- ledge that thefe ceremonies, as prelcribed by the laws, are not idolatrous, but only marks of civil respect: but this notion has been much controverted by the Missionaries of other orders. However the former (while they had admiflion into China) allowed their converts to join in thofe rites, tho' they taught them to place a crucifix * among So P. Gobien quoted by Picart, p. 213. for two or three days among the gar- dens. At that juncture do you pro- vide a good swift horfe for yourself, and a set of ftout Cooleys or chairmen : day wait for her with these as she goes or returns: ordering them, when you give the signal, to stop the men that carry her chair, and after they have fallen upon them and beat them, to feize and carry her home to your house." among the ftatues when they made the proftra- tions. But it is agreed that the Bonzees have introduced many fuperftitious practices, such as burning gilt paper in the form of money, and even pieces of silk; teaching that the souls of the deceased hover about and feed upon the meats and perfumes that are burnt. N. B. At or near the tombs of people of quality are built several apartments,where the relations sometimes pass a month in mourning, and whither they oc- cafionally return. P. Du Halde, vol. 1. p. 306. &c. P. Semedo, part 1.ch. 16.& 19 paffim, Picart, p. 212, &c. Kwo- Kwo-kbé-tzu was charmed with this proposal, and resolved to put it in ex- ecution. "" Nothing, said he, can de- seat a design so well concerted as this: unless badness of weather should keep her at home." "Even that, said Shuey- guwin, will hardly prevent her from going for the bears the greatest re- gard for her mother's memory.' " Kwo- khé-tzu had no farther doubts about the success of their project: in the happy contemplation of which Shuey-guwin left him. As soon as he got home, he haftened to his niece to chide her for what had happened. "Your cousin's husband, said he, shewed you great civility, not only to invite you, but also to do it in so so respectful a manner and for you to come to his door and then run away, what could occasion such strange be- haviour? It hath brought a great deal of shame not only on yourself but also on me: for I could hardly lift up my head any more in company." "I need not use many words, replied Shuey- ping-fin; let me only say, that whether my suspicions were well grounded or not, is best known to himself, but I had certainly the strongest foundation for them." "By no means, said he, all that he wanted was to pay his com- pliments to his new relations, and to shew you that respect which he thought due to the cousin of his wife." "That, said his niece, you will hardly persuade me to believe: nay although I escaped the snare this time, I am of opinion that he is still contriving some trick to catch me. And you know best whether you yourself are altogether innocent. You will probably deny it; but the event will thew it before it be long." Shuey-guwin's heart began to beat, and he went home without utter- ing a single fyllable. Now the ninth moon being come, Shuey-ping-fin began to think of paying her respects at her mother's tomb, and of visiting the places where he was every year accustomed to go. She sent therefore to acquaint her uncle and his three sons, of her intention. It instantly occured to Shuey-guwin, that if he went with her, he would be thought a party concerned concerned in the carrying her off: he therefore returned for answer that he was indisposed. She then desired his two eldest sons might accompany her: but they, it was answered, were in- gaged in business which they could not leave but that his youngest son, if she required it, might go with her. At the same time he sent to advife Kwo- khé-tzu of it, and that she was to set out the very next morning. On the morrow she ordered every thing to be got ready with such prepa- ration, as might testify her respect for the memory of her mother. She ap- pointed her grand chair* to be set out, together

• The compilers of the Modern Univerfal Hif

tory inform us, that these chairs or fedans are of two together with four smaller chairs for her maids. She had a horfe brought to two forts. Those belonging to people of quality are borne on two or more men's shoulders; but those of the inferior rank have only one pole put through a ring on the top; and rather re- femble a large cage carried between two men, the hindermoft holding it with both his hands to prevent it from jogging to and fro. Those of the inferior kind, which are common- ly of japanned wood, have either some small holes or oblong narrow flits, not only to let in the air, but to give them that are in it a glimpse of what paffes in the streets through which they are conveyed but thofe of the better sort are covered with such rich silks as not only shut out the light, but even the fresh air. The same writers defcribe both kinds as made very low. (See vol. 8. p. 260. note K.) If one may judge from the Chinese prints, thefe fedans are not so very low, as they are here represented. And with regard to thofe ufed by the men for travelling, Du Halde afsures us that they are higher as well as lighter than those used in Europe. Thefe, he says, are made of bambû, and are of a convenient fize for sitting at eafe, being carried by men like If there be but two chairmen, the ends of the poles reft on their shoulders: but if there ours. be to the door in the street for her cou- fin*: then ordering the chairs into the hall, and having placed herself and her women in them, the chairmen came and took them away. From thence they marched along in great order; first of all went the chair of state, preceded by a magnificent um- brella, and carried by four cooleys or chairmen: then came the four small ones, followed by her cousin on horfe- back attended by two servants. be four, then the ends of the poles, as well before as behind, pass through two running knots of a strong pliable cord, hung by the middle to a thick stick, whofe ends reft on the shoulders of the chairmen. P. Du Halde, vol. 1. p. 266. N. B. All authors inform us, that the chairs ufed on solemn occasions are very splendid, being finely gilt, and in other respects pompously decorated. Brother in the original.. They They were now got out of the city, and wanted but about a lee* of the tomb: when suddenly there came up three lufty men on the left hand and as many on the right; who stopped the grand chair. And presently after from among the bushes, there rushed out more than twenty cooleys or chairmen, five or six of whom immediately feized on the chair, crying out to them who carried it: "This is our place; would you take our livelihood from us?" Then beating them off, they took it up and ran away with it as faft as they could. The servants on horseback seeing this, rode after them, demanding how they durft offer such infult to a lady of

• See note pag. 15.

quality. quality. They made no reply, but hurried away the fafter. One of the servants was almost up with the chair : when of a fudden bolted out Kwo-kbé-tzu himself and stopped him. "How now, impudence! said he, your lady there is my wife." "I knew not that, Sir, said the servant, I only did my duty which had I not done, my lady would have punished me." "Lay the blame upon me, replied the other, do you go home about your business." The servant stood still. Then Kwo-kbé-tzu for- bidding him with heavy threats to ad- vance, hafted after the chair. By this time the four other chairs were come up together with the attendants; "" who who after a little consultation, turn'd about and went home again. In the mean while Kwo-khć-tzu ac- companied his prize 'till it was got within the gate of the city: then giving the stricteft charge to his servants to take great care of it, and see it safely set down within his house, he turned aside to the Che-foo and Che-hien, in order to intreat them to come and be witnesses.