Hao Qiu Zhuan/en1761-en2026/Chapter 9
Chapter 9 — Translation Comparison: 1761 ↔ 2026
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Chapter 9: Fabricating Ghosts to Frighten a Beauty, Only to Make Her Burst Out LaughingFrom: 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. Page numbers preserved as [p. N]. Some scan errors may remain -- compare with the modern translation and Chinese original to verify. [Volume II, Book II, Chapters VII-VIII] CHAP. VII.[1] [p. 177] ALTHOUGH Tieh-chung-u was not a little offended at the impertinence of the old man and the Mandarine of the village, yet sometimes he could not forbear laughing at the ridiculous distress in which he was involved; and when supper was brought, made no scruple to eat and drink heartily: then ordering Stow-tan to get ready his bed, without any ceremony lay down to sleep. The moon[2] at this time was near [p. 178] the full and shone very bright: now it happened that he awoke about midnight, and opening his eyes, saw very clearly, Thao-chie sitting on his bedside; who perceiving him to stir, stretched forth her hand to embrace him. Upon which he started and said, "Forbear, woman! How can you offer at an indecency so ill becoming your sex?" This said, he turned himself about again to sleep. The girl was so confounded at this rebuke that she answered not a word; but went and laid her [p. 179] self down near the feet of the bed. Lee-thay-cong, who did not sleep a wink all night, but sat watching without, heard him reprimand the girl for her forwardness: by which he clearly perceived him to be a modest and virtuous youth; and no way inclined to any thing bad.[3] "I am now convinced, said he to himself, that this woman's running away was all her own contrivance. The stranger is faultless, and I have certainly wronged him." For which reason he would gladly have set him at liberty; but reflecting that he was the Mandarine's prisoner and committed to his custody, he contented himself with saying, "To-morrow, when we go be- [p. 180] fore the audience, I will endeavour to set the matter right." At break of day the old man carried with him a purse of money, and went to the Mandarine to desire him to drop the affair, and not bring it before a superior tribunal. The Mandarine [willing to shew his power] answered him sternly, "Did you send me hither, or invest me with this office, that I am to be directed by you in the execution of it? The order[4] was written out last night, and you must all go this morning before the Tao-yee. Come; come; let us set out." The old man seeing there was no remedy, brought the persons in his custody [p. 181] and attended the Mandarine; who set out with them followed by a great crowd of people. Now it happened to be the birth-day of the Tao-yee, and a great number of Mandarines were come to visit him in compliment to the occasion: but as the trumpets had only sounded the first time,[5] and the gates were not yet thrown open, they were all waiting without. When therefore they saw the concourse of people coming, they sent to know what was the matter: and were told that a young man had run away with another person's concubine. The people that were present asked him, how he, who seemed to be a gentleman, could be capable of such an action. Tieh-chung-u made them no answer. Then they asked the girl if that was the person, who had inticed her away. She replied, [p. 183] "Yes; it was he who persuaded me to do it." This answer she gave to every one that asked her; which did not a little please the Mandarine of the village. It happened that at the same time arrived the Pao Che-bien,[6] from whom Tieh-chung-u had so lately parted. He likewise was come to visit the Tao-yee, and to compliment him on the occasion of the day. As he came out of his chair, he looked round and saw the crowd that was gathered about the youth. Upon which he sent to the Mandarine of the village[7] to inquire what was the matter, and [p. 185] why they crowded so about that young gentleman? He came up and told him, that he had been taken along with a young woman, whom he had seduced; and that having been brought before him, he was willing to carry him to a higher tribunal. When the Che-hien heard this, he was very angry and said, "It is false. I do not believe it. Some villainous trick is played him. Do you know that his name is Tieh-chung-u, son of the Tu-cha-yuen or Superior of the viceroys.[8] He was at my city, and was pressed to marry a young lady of the first rank there, which for par- [p. 186] ticular reasons he declined: And is it likely that he would come to a paultry village and take up with such a dirty thing as this? No: there is some villainy at the bottom." "I know nothing of that, said the other: but he was brought before me by the old man, who was injured: and the woman herself accuses him of being the cause of her elopement. However I have not pretended to determine any thing about it: and for that reason have brought them hither." The Pao Che-hien then ordered his people to look out for a convenient place, where he might sit down and examine into the matter.[9] When he was seated he said to the youth, "You have but just now left my city: how is it that you have caused this crime to be laid to your charge?" Upon which he told him all that had happened. "Well, said the other; and did not you inquire the name of the young man, whom you met with this woman?" "He replied, I did. He is cousin to the old man, and his name is Suan-yin." When the Che-hien heard this, he called for Lee-thay-cong and the girl; and reprimanded the for- [p. 188] mer, saying, "Are not you ashamed, thus advanced in years, to take so young a creature to be your concubine? You were unable to manage and govern her, so she struck up an intimacy with your cousin and would have run away with him. And now when people have endeavoured to restore her to you, you abuse them for it. Is it thus you repay the services which are done you? Your age protects you or I would have you bastinadoed.[10] Tieh-chung-u interceded for him and the young woman, and desired they might be released: which was immediately granted. After which the little Mandarine of the village came up and made his reverence, asking pardon for what he had done. Then the Che-hien said to the young gentleman, "Yesterday I was desirous you should stay with me longer, but could not succeed. To-day I have the good fortune to meet with you again, and as you are detained by this [p. 191] accident, I hope now you will spend a day or two with me." The other told him he was so complaisant he knew not how to refuse him. The Mandarine charmed with his compliance, said, "With your leave then, I will go and present my compliments to the Tao-yee, and instantly come back to you." When he had given his present to that magistrate and wished him joy on his birth-day, he returned home with Tieh-chung-u and made a splendid entertainment for him. When they were at table[11] he every now and then made the fair Shuey-ping-sin the subject of his discourse: which was ever in her praise. "Sir, said the youth, all you say of [p. 193] her is but just. I now look upon you as my friend, and shall tell you one thing very truly. When I saw her the first time at your audience, her beauty made the deepest impression on my heart. But afterwards when my ill fortune involved me in trouble, and she was pleased to take me into her house, where she treated me with all the tenderness of a sister: then was I forced to relinquish my hopes. For my having been her guest so long hath caused a suspicion, which, although at present it seems forgotten, would not fail to revive, should such a marriage take place; and we should both be involved in disgrace and unhappiness. Do not urge me therefore any more on this subject, lest you [p. 194] cause me to take an oath to you, that I never will think of it. After what hath passed, to prosecute this marriage would be against all good order." The Che-hien urged him no farther on the subject. When therefore they both had drank till midnight, they retired to rest. In the morning when Tieh-chung-u was about to prosecute his journey, the Pao Che-hien ordered his servants to bring him twelve shoes, or pieces of silver;[12] which he presented to the young [p. 195] gentleman in order to defray his expences on the road. When he would have returned him thanks, he prevented him, saying, "This is not worth mentioning: I only desire you to hear me a word or two. You must not go travelling about the world in this manner. You had better return to your house, and pass your time with books in study. And when the day of examination arrives, you may come to be made a great doctor, and have your name famous throughout the world. But if you proceed in your present method, you will never acquire reputation and glory." "Sir, said the youth, I thank you for your good counsel; and shall not forget it." Then bidding adieu to each other, they parted. [p. 196] When Tieh-chung-u was got upon the road, he could not help reflecting on the change so visible in the Che-hien's behaviour: and especially on the earnestness with which he had urged him to prosecute the marriage. "Is it, said he to himself, from any private views of his own, or from a sincere inclination to serve me? Whatever were his intentions, I have said nothing that can bear an ill construction." Then he reflected on the lovely features and fine person of Shuey-ping-sin; as well as on her great ingenuity and sense. "What a capacity must she [p. 197] possess, would he say; to extricate herself out of so much danger? Again, what goodness must she have, when I had left her house so abruptly upon the discourse of her uncle without taking leaving of her, that she did not resent it: but on the contrary sent me a present for my journey? Another woman would have been highly affronted at my going away in so unhandsome a manner. Whoever can obtain her will be very happy. I am the most unlucky of all mankind. Had I been fortunate, I should have come to the [p. 198] city where she lives like myself, without any disturbance; Then I might have heard of her in such a manner, as with a good grace to have proposed a treaty of marriage, and might perhaps have succeeded. But as my acquaintance commenced with her through trouble and misfortune, there is no touching upon such a subject. I am very unhappy. Her age is exceeding suitable, and so is her condition and temper to mine." As he was going on in this pensive manner, his servant intreated him to mind his way, which they should be in danger of losing, and begged of him not to be so much cast down. "Siow-tan, said he, I was thinking of Shuey-ping-sin, what a lovely and what a sensible lady she is: and how great is my misfortune not to have known her but through troubles and disturbance.[13] Were I to search the world through, I should never meet with one of so many perfections, and such transcendent goodness." "I believe, Sir, said he, her equal is not be found under heaven.[14]" [p. 199] "Now, said his master, I will go home and stay a year, and when the examination is held, will offer myself a candidate. If I come off with credit and success, I shall have fulfilled my duty to my father and mother. Whether I am promoted to an office or not, I shall be unconcerned, provided I can but acquire a name. Then will Shuey-ping-sin hear of it, and be convinced how steadily I adhere to my word, and how punctually I follow the advice she gave me." Having confirmed himself in these resolutions, he put forward on the [p. 200] road towards the city of Tah-ming, the place of his birth. CHAP. VIII. [p. 200] SHUEY-PING-SIN having sent her servant with a present of money and sweetmeats [as was before related] was not a little impatient, when she found he did not return. Her fears suggested some mischief had happened, so that she was plunged in great anxiety and concern, till the afternoon, when her mes- [p. 201] senger came back. She inquired the reason of his stay, and was informed that the young stranger was but just departed from the city: that her present had been delivered to him, and that with it he had hired a mule for his journey. She asked what he had said at his departure. Then Shuey-yeong faithfully related all that he was ordered to report. She said nothing to him farther at that time, but bidding him refresh himself retired to her apartment. When she was alone, she reflected, that although Tieh-chung-u had met with disturbance on her account, she had made him all the returns in her power: that he was now fully recovered, and was no longer involved in trouble for her sake. This gave her a satisfaction, which was alone interrupted by her fears of some new attack from Kwo-khe-tzu and her uncle: to prevent and obviate these would, she thought, require her attention. [p. 202] Shame for the ill success of his schemes had kept Shuey-guwin for some days from her house; when one morning she saw him enter with a visible satisfaction in his countenance. He came up and asked if she had heard the news. "How should I who am a woman and live recluse, she answered, know what passes abroad in the world?" He replied, "I will tell you. When you brought home to your house the young stranger Tieh, I thought so highly of him, as to propose him to you for a husband. Your steady refusal was a great proof of your judgment and penetration. If you had consented, you would have been very unhappy. Whom could you believe this stranger to be?" She replied, "I know nothing of him or his family. But his discourse and actions shewed him to [p. 203] be a man of sense and honour." Her uncle affected to laugh at this very heartily: "Ay, ay! said he, a man of great sense and honour to be sure! You have always discovered great discernment hitherto. Your eyes were like the sun. How came they now to be so eclipsed? Tieh-chung-u is an impostor; his pretended sickness was all a cheat. What ill intentions he had, I know not: but you are very lucky, that he did nothing here to involve you in disgrace. The pitcher goes often up and [p. 204] down the well, but is broken at last.[15] He had no sooner left this city, but coming to the village Tong-chin he was guilty of a very scandalous action." She eagerly inquired, "What he had [p. 206] done?" "He went into the house, said he, of a rich man there, who had a [p. 207] beautiful concubine, of whom he was very fond. What brought him there I [p. 208] know not, but Tieh-chung-u carried this woman away. The rich men in the [p. 209] villages, have a greater authority over the inhabitants, than those of the city; So that a great many people were dispatched after them, who overtook them both together; when they came up with [p. 210] them, blows ensued, in consequence of which they beat him till he was almost killed. Then they carried him before the Mandarine of the village. There he disputed with, and so provoked that magistrate, that he gave out an order to carry him before the Tao-yee. The result I have not heard: but when he came before that audience, I doubt not but he would let fall some provoking word, and procure himself to be beat so severely, as not to survive it." [p. 211] "Pray, Sir, said Shuey-ping-sin, how came you to know all this?" He replied, "The Che-hien having been to pay his compliments[16] to that Man- [p. 213] darine, all his people give this account." His niece upon this, laughed and said, "Why do you tell me, that Tieh-chung-u is a bad man and a cheat? If you should come and report that CON-FU-CEE[17] was guilty of murder; what were that to me?" "It is true, said her uncle, this is nothing to you. I only tell you a fact I have heard. I could not but be sorry to see you receive a person into your house, whom you neither knew, nor whence he was. If you would look out for men that are truly wise and learned, you should go nearer home; where their characters and families are well known; where you may easily be informed what studies they follow, and what repute they are in for their learning." "Uncle, said [p. 214] she, although what you have been telling me were true, I am no way concerned in it; nor is it any business of mine to enter upon its confutation. Yet such is the opinion I have of that young gentleman, and such proofs have I seen of his integrity and worth, that I am persuaded this is a malicious and groundless calumny." "This young man, he replied, is no enemy of mine. Why then should I report this, if it were not true? It was related to me thus, by the Che-hien's people. You are mistaken therefore if you think him an honest man; you might as well say, The yellow river is clear.[18]" "Till I see it with my own [p. 216] eyes, she replied, I shall still deem him incapable of any thing base. This story is incredible: It cannot be. Perhaps it was some one, who resembled him in person, that was taken for him. Uncle, be so good as to make farther inquiry into this affair: and if you find it to be, as you have related, I will venture to give up both my eyes. For certain I am, that he cannot have been guilty of so dishonourable a thing." Shuey-guwin laughed and said, "I would not have you lose your eyes, but keep them in their places. However, to convince you, I will go again and inquire; and when you find it true, how will you be able to look me in the face?" "I rather believe, Sir, said she, you will be ashamed to see me, when you find you are mistaken." [p. 217] Shuey-guwin was a little piqued at her answer, and hasted to the Che-hien's audience. He inquired of the officers. Some said that Tieh-chung-u was guilty. Others believed he was falsely accused. At last he met with one who had been present at the examination. From him he learnt the whole truth of the matter. Shuey-guwin was so ashamed of his mistake, that he did not venture at first to return to his niece. "This girl, said he, is as cunning as a witch. She is mistaken in nothing. What shall I now do to get clear of this affair? I will go and consult Kwo-khe-tzu." To his house he repaired; where he told him all that had passed, and how [p. 218] ashamed he should be to contradict his story. "Sir, and father-in-law, he replied, you are surely a saint. Who in these days, beside yourself, makes any scruple of reporting a fact, as they would have it? Who scruples to say the thing that is not?[19] Tieh-chung-u hath given us a good handle, and shall not we make a song or history of him? There are those, who can convert the least shadow into substance; and if they catch hold of a word, will compose a volume." "You say true, replied the other: but whom shall we get to draw up this ballad?" "Who should do it but myself, said Kwo-khe-tzu? Am not I a student? I can do that surely!" Shuey- [p. 219] guwin said, "If you will do it, it will be very sufficient." "But although I should compose this song, said the other, I do not chuse to write it." "That, replied his father-in-law, may be performed by another hand. To procure it to be written shall be my care. Come, let us see what you will make of it." Kwo-khe-tzu stood a little to recollect himself, and thus began.[20] Kwo-khe-tzu having repeated the foregoing lines, Shuey-guwin, who had listened to them with great attention, clapped his hands and cried out, "Excellent! Excellently good! But I am afraid, said he, from the particular [p. 220] manner of the description, my niece will scarcely believe they are of any body's composing but our own." "Let her think so, if she pleases, replied the other; that signifies nothing." Shuey-guwin procured a person to write them; and then took them with him: but before he went, the other said to him, "If your niece will be influenced in my favour by those lines, it will be well. If not, I shall soon be able to plague her; for in a short time there will come a Ngan-yuen or Grand Visitor into this province,[21] who was a pupil of my father's. Him will I get to oblige her to marry me. And as your brother hath no son, instead of [p. 222] bringing her home to my house, I will go and solemnize the marriage at her own.[22] Then what tricks will she find to evade it?" Here Shuey-guwin started, and said, "I thought, at first, you only wanted my niece. Now I find you would have all she is possessed of. I cannot consent to this. You must carry her home, otherwise her [p. 223] house and effects will be yours; nor will it be in my power to handle then so much as a straw." "Sir, and father-in-law, said Kwo-khe-tzu, can you think I have any thing in view beside your niece? You cannot but know I want for nothing. I am son of a prime minister; and have every thing at command. As for your brother's house, when I am once possessed of his daughter, you may depend on that and all that belongs to it." "I am satisfied, said the other, I will go and carry the verses to my niece. If she acquiesces, it is well. If she scolds, or is angry, I will give her a hint about the Grand Visitor. And whatever she says, I will come and impart to you." "Well, go then, replied the youth; I will wait here till you bring me an answer." [p. 224] What the young lady says to this, we must look for in the next chapter.
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Chapter 9: Fabricating Ghosts to Frighten a Beauty, Only to Make Her Burst Out LaughingModern English translation by Martin Woesler (2025) To the tune of "Green Willow Tips": A great man calls it slander; a small man calls it fabricating ghosts. You cannot hide it from heaven, nor screen it from the sun — All wasted, those oily lips and honeyed mouth. Those bright eyes, clear as water, One glance and they have pierced through lung and liver, brain and marrow. Why bother, for no reason, To abandon this bright discernment And make yourself a puppet?
Tie Zhongyu started up in a rush of anger, pushed her away, and said: "A woman should value her modesty! Stop this disgraceful behavior!" He turned on his side, facing the wall, and went back to sleep. Taozhi, rebuffed, was reluctant to leave. She sat for a while, then lay down at the foot of the bed, fully clothed. Now Old Master Li, though he had locked the concubine in the room, was far from easy in his mind. He crept to the door and listened. When he heard Tie Zhongyu's sharp rebuke, it dawned on him at last: "So it was the hussy who was up to mischief all along. This young man is innocent — I wronged him." At dawn he was ready to release him, but the Commander, who had received no money and had been insulted by Tie Zhongyu, stubbornly issued his paperwork and insisted on sending the case to the Circuit Intendant's office. Old Master Li could not overrule him, and so, with a crowd of escorts, they all set off. As it happened, that day was the Circuit Intendant's birthday. Officials from the prefectural and county governments had come to offer their congratulations. The gates had not yet opened, and the officials were all waiting outside. Then along came the crowd, escorting Tie Zhongyu and the concubine Taozhi, on charges of adultery and abduction. The officials all went over to look. Seeing Tie Zhongyu's handsome appearance — clearly not a kidnapper — they asked: "Who are you? Why did you kidnap this woman?" Tie Zhongyu made no reply. They asked Taozhi: "Was it this man who kidnapped you?" Taozhi, still smarting from Tie Zhongyu's rebuff the night before and with no other outlet for her spite, stubbornly insisted: "It was indeed he who kidnapped me." Every official who asked received the same answer. The Commander, taking this for solid confirmation, was in high spirits, waiting only for the Circuit Intendant to open his gates so he could present his achievement. Just as he was feeling pleased with himself, along came Magistrate Bao of Licheng County, having also come for the birthday celebration. No sooner had he alighted from his sedan chair than he caught sight of the crowd, with Tie Zhongyu and a woman among them. Greatly alarmed, he demanded: "What is the meaning of this?" The Commander, fearing someone might answer incorrectly, rushed forward to report: "This unknown young man abducted Old Master Li Ziqu's concubine and was caught in the act by the townspeople on the road. Person and evidence are both in hand, and this humble officer has brought them to the Circuit Intendant to present his achievement." Magistrate Bao was furious: "Nonsense! This is the Iron young gentleman — son of Censor-in-Chief Tie. In my own county I served as go-between, proposing that Vice-Minister Shui's daughter marry him. He refused because he had not received his father's consent, and departed in haste. How dare some village wench accuse him of kidnapping!" The Commander, hearing that this was the Censor-in-Chief's son, was already half deflated. He tried to shift the blame: "This is none of my doing — it was Li Ziqu who filed the complaint, and this woman who made the accusation." Magistrate Bao summoned Tie Zhongyu and invited him to sit, then asked: "After you left, sir, how did you come to be caught up in this business?" Tie Zhongyu recounted how he had encountered a young man and the woman by the edge of the woods. Magistrate Bao said: "What a pity you did not learn the young man's name." Tie Zhongyu said: "But I did. He is Li Ziqu's own grandson by his daughter — his name is Xuan Yin." Magistrate Bao, hearing this, summoned Old Master Li and the woman. He scolded the old man: "You wretched old fool! At your age, you ought to know better than to take a young woman as concubine — that was wrong to begin with. Then, failing to keep watch, you let her run off with someone, and you falsely accuse a passerby of kidnapping! What punishment do you deserve?" Old Master Li protested: "I did not falsely accuse him! My concubine disappeared, and she was found walking with him — caught by the crowd in full view. And last night at the inn, the woman herself stated clearly it was he. How is that a false accusation?" Magistrate Bao said: "You damnable old fool! Your own grandson Xuan Yin has been carrying on an affair with this woman for ages. Yesterday they seized their chance to elope. It was only by good fortune that they ran into the Iron young gentleman, who caught them and brought her back for you. Instead of being grateful, you repay kindness with malice!" Old Master Li, hearing the magistrate name Xuan Yin, suddenly saw the light: "So it was that little scoundrel who took her! No wonder he has been coming around every day, smooth-talking and flattering me." He knocked his head on the ground again and again: "Say no more — Your Honor is truly a god!" Magistrate Bao was about to issue a warrant for Xuan Yin's arrest when Old Master Li pleaded: "By rights I should ask Your Honor to arrest and punish him. But his father is dead and my daughter is a widow — he is her only child. I beg Your Honor's mercy. In future I shall simply forbid him from entering my house." Magistrate Bao then proposed to have Taozhi subjected to the thumbscrews. Old Master Li dared not object, but Tie Zhongyu interceded: "This Taozhi is the old man's very life. Since you are not pursuing Xuan Yin, let her off as well." Magistrate Bao said: "A wanton woman like this, corrupting public morals — even if we crushed her thumbs it would not be too much. But since the Iron young gentleman requests it, consider yourself fortunate. Send her away — I shall not investigate further." Old Master Li and Taozhi hastily kowtowed in thanks and withdrew. The Commander came forward again and again to beg pardon. Magistrate Bao gave him a sharp rebuke and dismissed him. Then, turning to Tie Zhongyu, he said: "Yesterday I wished to detain you for a quiet drink, but your earlier suspicions were not yet allayed, and you were determined to leave. I felt deeply regretful. Now, by good fortune, these country folk have detained you on my behalf, and we meet again. Will you consent to forget the past and drink freely, to ease both our hearts?" Tie Zhongyu said: "Yesterday, my former resentments still unresolved, I left in bitter haste. Now, thanks to Your Honor's noble generosity — lofty as the clouds, gentle as flowing water — I, Tie Zhongyu, feel as though I were drinking the purest wine. Never mind being invited to stay — even if you tried to drive me away, I could not bear to leave." Magistrate Bao was overjoyed and ordered a feast prepared. After paying their respects to the Circuit Intendant, they would return and drink to their hearts' content. As the verse says: How swiftly the muddled affairs of the world can change; Sincerest friendship, given time, will deepen on its own. Ask old heaven what it means by these reversals — In the main, it is to temper the human heart. Magistrate Bao, having congratulated the Circuit Intendant, returned to his quarters and laid out wine for himself and Tie Zhongyu. Their previous meeting, though cordial enough, had been mere courtesy, without real warmth. This time they had become true friends, exchanging cups with genuine pleasure. Halfway through the drinking, when inhibitions had dissolved, they spoke without reserve. When the conversation turned to Miss Shui, Magistrate Bao urged him yet again to consider the match. Tie Zhongyu said: "Between friends who truly understand each other, I dare not speak a false word. When I first saw Miss Shui in the magistrate's court, standing like jade, glowing like a blossom — even in the heat of my anger, my heart could scarcely contain itself. Later, when I lodged at the Longevity Temple, though our encounters were fleeting and in passing, in my inmost heart I could not forget her. Even this illness, which began from something I ate, was also brought on by my wandering, distracted state of mind. Then, when I lay in the stupor of my sickness and she had me moved to her house for treatment, I considered the tender devotion of her care — greater than a parent's, finer than a child's — all conducted with feeling and with propriety. And so my entire private torrent of infatuation was transformed into a pure current of gratitude. From that day to this, I have not dared to harbor a single improper thought. If anyone so much as mentions the word 'marriage,' my heart trembles and my very bones shake, as though I were committing a sacrilege against the divine. And so, each time Your Honor raises the subject, the disquiet of my soul and body deepens. This is not false modesty designed to win a reputation for virtue." Magistrate Bao listened and sighed: "From what you say, Miss Shui stands before you as awesome as a goddess, not to be profaned. For my part, I would say this: unless Miss Shui resolves never to marry in this life, then when her father returns and she must, after all, undergo the rites of marriage — if she rejects a hero such as you on the grounds of propriety, and goes off to seek some other match, would that not be an even greater profanation? You and Miss Shui are people of true virtue, and at this moment you are deep in the feelings of gratitude and reverence — naturally you do not think of such things. But I, an observer, have witnessed your chivalry with my own eyes. If I do not bring you together, then I am a man who sees righteousness and fails to act." Tie Zhongyu said: "Perhaps Your Honor sees some way forward that I cannot. But for my part, I can only say that I am struck with awe and dare not presume." The two talked on with such animation that they did not stop until they were thoroughly drunk. They spent the night together at the magistrate's lodgings. The next morning, Magistrate Bao had official business calling him back to the county, and Tie Zhongyu wished to continue his journey. As they parted, the magistrate presented him with twelve taels as a travel gift and said: "I have one more word of counsel." Tie Zhongyu said: "I am glad to hear it." Magistrate Bao said: "Though an official career and scholarly fame add nothing essential to true character, in our present age the continuation of one's family's scholarly tradition is not to be neglected. Rather than wandering aimlessly, would it not be better to pluck the green and purple of official rank as easily as a mustard seed, and win an honored name?" Tie Zhongyu, hearing this, nodded with pleasure: "I shall heed this counsel." And so they parted, Tie Zhongyu setting off ahead. As the verse says: Spear and shield are ice and fire; Close bonds are lacquer and glue. Let the heart but turn one inch, And the road grows deep and long. Magistrate Bao returned to his county — we shall leave him for the moment. Now Tie Zhongyu, having taken leave of the magistrate, hired a donkey as before and rode on his way. As he went, he pondered: "This Magistrate Bao — how villainous he was at first, yet how kind he has proven in the end. Once a man can reform, there is no limit to what he may become." Then his thoughts turned to Miss Shui: "If one considers her beauty — slender as a spring willow, lovely as a crab-apple in bloom — neither Xi Shi nor Mao Qiang could surpass her. Add to that her three acts of brilliant stratagem, which nearly drove Young Master Guo to despair — even Chen Ping's six ingenious schemes were no more than this. When danger struck without warning, she contrived to bring the case before the magistrate's court, and once there, argued with the composure and clarity of a statesman. Without talent, eloquence, discernment, and courage, how could she have done it? When I was poisoned and fell ill, had she not possessed those sharp eyes, how could she have seen through the plot? Even had she seen through it, without the bold resolution of a hero, how could she have arranged my rescue? Even had she managed to rescue me, without her true-hearted, fierce-spirited devotion — governed by feeling yet bound by propriety — she would scarcely have avoided falling into impropriety. Even at my departure, when her uncle's single blunt word offended me and I left without a farewell — anyone else would have been angry; yet she had already prepared traveling money and sent it after me with the most considerate care. If one tallies everything without the slightest error, she must truly be reckoned the foremost woman of our age." He mused further: "Among the beauties celebrated through the ages, Xi Shi and Zhuo Wenjun represent the highest — yet neither possessed the virtue of chastity. As for Meng Guang and Wuyan, whose fame rests upon moral virtue — they were no more than homely women. But Miss Shui is the 'fair mate by the river's edge' of the ode — the one for whom the noble gentleman 'tosses and turns, awake through the night.' If one could win her, that would truly be the greatest happiness on earth. But alas, I, Tie Zhongyu, was born without such fortune. We are of the same age, our years match, our characters are alike, and we cherish the deepest mutual regard — yet our meeting was fatally ill-timed. We met in adversity, in a public court; without a matchmaker we exchanged words, without ceremony we associated. It became a tale of chivalry and honor — but how different from the drums and bells of a wedding feast, the harmony of lute and harp! If, having already established ourselves as comrades in honor, we were then to negotiate a marriage — would not all our former chivalry be destroyed? If I were to open my mouth on the subject, not only would others mock me — Miss Shui herself would think less of me. It is out of the question! The only course is to resolve firmly to remain, for all time, a friend who honors gratitude and mutual esteem, so that both our hearts may be free of reproach." Then he thought again: "She is not only scrupulous in her own conduct — even the counsel she gave me about studying and avoiding my enemies was full of wisdom. Her advice to take up my father's legacy and not wander forlorn to the ends of the earth — those few words struck at the very heart of my weakness. If I, Tie Zhongyu, do not earn a place in the imperial examinations, and go on drifting about as a wandering knight — though my name fill the world, I would still be a vagabond, and Miss Shui would laugh at me in the end. Better to return home and sit for the provincial and capital examinations in the year after next, thus fulfilling my parents' hopes for me. After that, whether I take up office or not, I shall be free to pursue my chivalric adventures — and shall I not stand on higher ground than now, when I merely quarrel with petty men?" His mind made up, he rode straight back to Daming Prefecture. As the verse says: Words spoken pass the ear and are forgotten; Deeds discarded still alarm the heart. The longing in both hearts is the same — Yet never has longing run so deep as this. We shall set aside Tie Zhongyu's return home for the moment. Now Miss Shui, after sending Shui Yong with the traveling money, waited half the day without word. Fearing that some villain might have harmed him, she was deeply anxious. It was not until midday that Shui Yong returned and reported: "The Iron young gentleman was only now leaving the city. The silver and the provisions have been delivered to him and to Xiao Dan." Miss Bingxin asked: "Did the Iron young gentleman have any parting words?" Shui Yong said: "The Iron young gentleman said only this: 'Between myself and the young lady — strangers who met by chance — if I tried to speak of gratitude, the debt is too deep for words. If I tried to speak of feeling, there is no feeling to speak of.' He asked me to pay his respects to the young lady and say that after his departure, she should think of him no more." Miss Bingxin heard this and fell silent. After dismissing Shui Yong, she thought to herself: "He made enemies for my sake and nearly lost his life. Now that he has departed safely, one matter is laid to rest. But I fear that Young Master Guo and Uncle Shui Yun, plotting together, will not let the matter go, and I must remain on my guard." For some time Shui Yun, embarrassed at having offended Tie Zhongyu and driven him away, did not come to visit. Then one day he appeared, all smiles, and said: "Dear niece, do you know the most extraordinary news?" Miss Shui said: "Living quietly in my chambers, how would I know what happens outside?" Shui Yun said: "That fellow surnamed Tie the other day — I thought he was a good man and even advised you to marry him. Fortunately you had enough sense not to agree so easily. Had you agreed, you would have ruined your life! Can you guess what sort of man this Tie really is?" Miss Bingxin said: "His family background I do not know. But judging from his bearing and conduct, he is a man of chivalry and honor." Shui Yun slapped his thigh: "A man of chivalry and honor? You have always had the sharpest eye — but today it seems to have failed you!" Miss Bingxin said: "If not a man of chivalry and honor, then what?" Shui Yun said: "A professional kidnapper, is what! The other day, while he was living here pretending to be ill, who knows what scheme he was hatching. It is your great good fortune that my words were sharp enough to frighten him off — he could see there was nothing to be gained, and so he left in a pretended huff. But as the saying goes, 'The cracked pot always breaks at the seam.' No sooner had he reached Dongzhen than the truth came out." Miss Shui said: "What truth?" Shui Yun said: "A wealthy family at Dongzhen had a beloved concubine. By some trick or other, without anyone knowing, he kidnapped her and tried to escape. Unfortunately the household kept a great number of retainers who gave chase in every direction and caught them. They beat him half to death on the spot before hauling him to the Town Commander's office. If he had known his place and begged the Commander for mercy, perhaps he would have gotten off with a few blows. But the stupid fool, even at that point, tried to put on airs and insulted the Commander. The Commander was incensed and had him sent to the Circuit Intendant's office. Everyone says that this time, with the evidence clear, a sentence of exile is certain." Miss Bingxin asked: "How did you come to know all this?" Shui Yun said: "Magistrate Bao went to congratulate the Circuit Intendant on his birthday. The runners who accompanied him — every one of them saw it. The rumor is spreading everywhere. That is how I know." Miss Bingxin listened, gave a cold laugh, and said: "Even if the Iron young gentleman had turned kidnapper — even if Zeng Shen himself had truly committed murder — what concern would it be of mine?" Shui Yun said: "Of course it is no concern of yours. I mention it only in passing. But it goes to show — people one does not know from birth cannot be trusted. If one is seeking talent, it is better to choose someone whose roots one knows." Miss Bingxin said: "If the Iron young gentleman's affairs are no concern of mine, then in principle there is nothing to defend. But when my uncle says that strangers cannot be trusted, he seems to imply that my judgment was faulty — that I misjudged the Iron young gentleman. If my uncle mocks me for misjudging a stranger, I can let that pass too. But I fear my uncle is suggesting I misjudged the Iron young gentleman himself. This young man, in his youth, defended me with chivalry on the public stage of the magistrate's court. I in turn received him here to convalesce, saving his life. If the Iron young gentleman is truly a professional kidnapper, then what passed between us was not chivalry but a private affair. And that would not only destroy the Iron young gentleman's honor — my uncle's slander would destroy it utterly. How can this go unanswered?" Shui Yun said: "Your words make me by turns angry and amused. I have no old grudge or new quarrel with this Tie fellow — why would I slander him? He kidnapped a wealthy man's concubine — you, being at home, naturally did not know, but every runner at the county gates is talking about it. How can you blame me? If you wish to argue that you were deceived — that you misjudged him unintentionally — that might hold up. But if you are trying to argue that he is not a kidnapper, I am afraid that even if he jumped into the Yellow River, he could not wash himself clean." Miss Bingxin said: "What I intend to argue is precisely that the Iron young gentleman is not a kidnapper, and that it is petty men who slander him. Only thus will it be shown that my judgment was not in error. As for whether I was acting intentionally or unintentionally — that requires no argument at all." Shui Yun said: "Dear niece, you are too stubborn. The man is a kidnapper — people saw it with their own eyes, plain as day. What is there left to argue?" Miss Bingxin said: "My uncle says people saw it. I myself not only did not see it — I did not even hear of it. Truly, I have nothing concrete to argue from. But reasoning from principle and examining the facts, the Iron young gentleman is absolutely not a kidnapper. Even if appearances suggest otherwise — if it is not a false rumor, then there is certainly some other explanation. If my uncle insists he was truly acting as a kidnapper, I am willing to gouge out both my eyes and forfeit them to you." Shui Yun said: "He kidnapped a wealthy man's beloved concubine! The case has been sent from the Commander to the Circuit Intendant's office! This is hardly a false rumor. And with the person and evidence both in hand, what other explanation could there be? At this point, you are still defending his reputation — this is truly love blinding judgment!" Miss Bingxin said: "At this moment, whatever I argue, my uncle will naturally not believe me. But I would ask my uncle not to be too hasty in his conclusions. Go and make careful inquiries — the truth will become clear of its own accord." Shui Yun said: "If I do not inquire, he is still a kidnapper. If I do inquire, he will still be a kidnapper. But if you insist, I shall inquire — it costs nothing more than half a day's trouble. Very well. But since you are so certain, tell me: on what 'principle' and what 'facts' do you base your confidence?" Miss Bingxin said: "Principle and facts — these two words are the most precise and wonderful things in the world. See through them, and all is clear as day. Fail to see through them, and one stumbles in confusion to the end. It is no easy thing to explain them to a person who does not understand principle and fact. But since my uncle asks, I dare not refuse to speak. "The principle I rely upon is the principle of righteous propriety. In general, when a person's conduct and speech accord with the rightness of principle, that person cannot be wicked. I have observed the Iron young gentleman, from the public court to the private chamber: in all he does, there is nothing that is not righteous and proper; in all he says, there is nothing that does not accord with the moral order. Only one whose inborn nature is grounded in righteous principle could behave thus. And if his nature is so grounded, to call him a kidnapper is a sheer impossibility. "The facts I examine are the facts of public and private conduct. In general, one whose passions serve the public good will not use them for private ends. I have observed the Iron young gentleman, from our first meeting to his departure: those whom he rushes to save at the risk of his life are always strangers, with no regard for whether they are close or distant. Those dangers he braves without a thought are always matters of principle, never of personal affection. Only one whose feeling is public rather than private could act thus. And if his feeling is public, to ascribe to him the deeds of a kidnapper is again a sheer impossibility. "This is why I see clearly and hold firm, unshaken even unto death. According to my uncle's account, everything sounds absolutely true — but if it were true, then the nature with which heaven and earth endow mankind would be unreliable, and the moral teachings of the sages would be mere fabrications. That simply cannot be so. As the common saying goes, 'What the ear hears is false; what the eye sees is true.' I ask my uncle not to be too quick to mock. Go and make your inquiries. If you discover, beyond all doubt, that he is truly a kidnapper without a shadow of error — then come back and mock me. It will not be too late. Why assume the worst of a gentleman based on the mind of a petty man?" Shui Yun laughed: "Since you are determined to embarrass yourself to the very end, I shall go and find the definitive proof. Then let us see what you have to say!" Miss Bingxin smiled: "I only fear my uncle will find the inquiries too embarrassing and not come back at all." Shui Yun went out, thinking as he walked: "How can this girl be so unshakably certain? Could it be that the rumors were garbled after all? I had better go to the county gates and ask around again." He made his way to the county seat and questioned every runner he met. Some said that indeed there had been a young man and a woman bound together — that much was true. Others said the young man was no kidnapper. All gave confused and contradictory accounts. Only at last, when he found a personal attendant close to the magistrate, did he learn the full story: Old Master Li had falsely assumed Tie Zhongyu was the kidnapper, and it was Magistrate Bao who investigated and cleared him. Shui Yun was inwardly alarmed: "This girl is truly a remarkable woman! I was completely convinced, yet she had the nerve to stand her ground, biting down on nails and chewing iron, insisting flatly it was not so, offering to gouge out her eyes to make a wager. And as I was leaving, she said she feared I would find the inquiries too embarrassing to come back! How I mocked her earlier — and now I truly haven't the face to see her." He dithered for a long while, then thought: "Better go and consult with Young Master Guo first, and then decide what to do." He went to Young Master Guo's house and recounted the whole affair. Young Master Guo said: "My dear sir, you need not take everything so literally. Nowadays, what is settled is called unsettled; what does not exist is made to exist. Since the Tie fellow had this episode, why not embellish it a bit, add a few touches, and make it stick? It does not have to be all fabrication." Shui Yun said: "Who minds telling a lie? But at the moment there is no lie to tell." Young Master Guo said: "Lies are not hard. Just compose a little ditty about him — say it is something people are singing — and show it to her. That is all the proof you need. True or false, who will come forward to dispute it?" Shui Yun said: "A fine idea! But who should compose it?" Young Master Guo said: "Who but my vastly learned and supremely talented self could compose it?" Shui Yun said: "If the young master would compose it himself, it will surely be a masterpiece. Pray compose it and write it out." Young Master Guo said: "Composing it is easy enough — I can recite it to you. But writing it out is beyond me." Shui Yun said: "Then recite it to me first." Young Master Guo thought for a moment and recited: What a joke, this son of Tie — Pretending to be a gentleman fine! A great big hat upon his head, And empty airs from top to toe. Playing the fool, the pompous dunce, Duping a silly girl, what fun! Stripped of his disguise at last — Lo and behold, a kidnapper! A rope around his neck he wears, A beating on his backside bears. Above, a prowling wall-climber; Below, a common beggar-man. What an unworthy son he is — A disgrace to his father's name! Poor Miss Shui, a lady true, A jewel of the inner chambers! She mistook a roaming rogue For a man as chaste as Lu Nanzi. What a show he made of virtue — Bitter the truth beneath the mask! Her eyes are most to blame, alas, For they were lacking any pearls. All young men are much the same — In a pinch, no one's a gentleman. A dog-thief puts on lordly airs; A chicken-chaser plays it small. If she would keep her lady's name, She should have married Master Guo! When the recitation was finished, Shui Yun clapped his hands and laughed: "Splendid! Splendid! Only the last two lines are too obvious — she will grow suspicious. Better leave them out." Young Master Guo said: "To make her suspicious, those two lines are essential." Shui Yun said: "Leave them or not — it needs to be written out and shown to her, to look authentic." Young Master Guo said: "Writing it out is easy enough." He called in a literate servant, dictated the verses, and had them written out. He handed the paper to Shui Yun: "Take this and show it to her first — let it take some of the wind out of her sails. If she relents, well and good. If she still puts on airs, the new Provincial Inspector has just been appointed — his name is Feng Ying, and he is one of my father's most devoted protégés. Once he arrives and takes up his post, I shall petition him to officiate as matchmaker by force and have me married into the Shui household as a groom-in-residence. Then let her try to escape!" Shui Yun was alarmed: "If you marry into the household, the family property goes to you, and we of the Shui name are left with nothing at all!" Young Master Guo laughed: "My dear sir, do not take it so seriously. The talk of marrying in is only to get the wedding done. Once married, she will naturally move to my house. Do you think the Guo family lacks property? I would never covet your family's estate and make myself a Shui son-in-law!" Shui Yun, relieved, said: "I was being too suspicious. Let me take this ditty and show it to her. If she is cowed and relents, I shall then explain about the Inspector's matchmaking, and she will have no choice but to submit." Young Master Guo was delighted: "Go quickly and come back quickly — I await the good news." Shui Yun took the paper and went home to see Miss Bingxin. And this meeting was to prove: Gold, the more it is refined, the harder it becomes; Virtue, the more it is tested, the purer it grows. To learn what Miss Bingxin had to say, read on in the following chapter. |