| Chinese Text Project |
《願同穴一時喪禮盛 守孤靈半夜口脂香 - A Grand Funeral for a Moment of Shared Burial Desire, A Half-Night Perfumed Lip Balm Guarding the Solitary Spirit》 | English translation: AI and Chinese Text Project users [?] | Library Resources |
| 1 | 願同穴一... : | 詩曰： |
| The poem says: | ||
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湘皋煙草碧紛紛，淚灑東風憶細君。見說嫦娥能入月，虛疑神女解為雲。 花陰晝坐閑金剪，竹里游春冷翠裙。留得丹青殘錦在，傷心不忍讀迴文。 | ||
| The reeds and grass on the Xiang shore are green and misty; tears fall in the east wind as I recall my beloved. It is said that Chang'e can enter the moon, and one might suspect that the goddess of Shennv can transform into clouds. Sitting in the shade of flowers during the day, idly holding golden scissors; wandering through spring among bamboo with a cool green skirt. Left behind are faded brocades and paintings; heartbroken, one cannot bear to read the palindromic verses. | ||
| 2 | 願同穴一... : | 話說到十月二十八日，是李瓶兒二七，玉皇廟吳道官受齋，請了十六個道眾，在家中揚幡修建齋壇。又有安郎中來下書，西門慶管待來人去了。吳道官廟中抬了三牲祭禮來，又是一匹尺頭以為奠儀。道眾繞棺傳咒，吳道官靈前展拜。西門慶與敬濟回禮，謝道：「師父多有破費，何以克當？」吳道官道：「小道甚是惶愧，本該助一經追薦夫人，奈力薄，粗祭表意而已。」西門慶命收了，打發抬盒人回去。那日三朝轉經，演生神章，破九幽獄，對靈攝召，整做法事，不必細說。 |
| It happened on the twenty-eighth day of the tenth month, which was the second week after Li Ping'er's death. Wu Daoguan from the Jade Emperor Temple observed a vegetarian fast and invited sixteen Taoist monks to raise banners and build an altar for the ritual at her home. Also, An Langzhong came with a letter; Ximen Qing entertained the envoy and then saw him off. Wu Daoguan brought three sacrificial animals from his temple as offerings, along with a bolt of cloth as funeral gifts. The Taoist monks chanted incantations around the coffin, and Wu Daoguan paid homage before the spirit tablet. Ximen Qing and Jing Ji returned the courtesy and thanked him, saying, "Master, you have spent so much; how can we possibly deserve it?" Wu Daoguan said, "I am very embarrassed and ashamed. I should have assisted with a scripture recitation to recommend the lady's soul, but my strength is limited; this humble offering merely expresses my intention." Ximen Qing ordered that the offerings be received and sent the people who had carried the boxes back home. On that day, they recited scriptures for three days and nights, performed the divine chapter of birth, broke open the nine dark hells, summoned spirits before the spirit tablet, and conducted various rituals; there is no need to go into further detail. | ||
| 3 | 願同穴一... : | 第二日，先是門外韓姨夫家來上祭。那時孟玉樓兄弟孟銳做買賣來家，見西門慶這邊有喪事，跟隨韓姨夫那邊來上祭，討了一分孝去，送了許多人事。西門慶敘禮，進入玉樓房中拜見。西門慶亦設席管待，俱不在言表。 |
| The next day, first of all, Han Yifu's family from outside the gate came to offer sacrifices. At that time, Meng Yulou's brother Meng Rui had returned home from doing business and, upon seeing that Ximen Qing was mourning, followed Han Yifu to offer sacrifices. He received a share of the mourning clothes and presented many gifts. Ximen Qing observed proper etiquette and entered Meng Yulou's room to pay his respects. Ximen Qing also arranged a banquet to entertain them; all the details need not be mentioned. | ||
| 4 | 願同穴一... : | 那日午間，又是本縣知縣李拱極、縣丞錢斯成、主簿任良貴、典史夏恭基，又有陽谷縣知縣狄斯朽，共五員官，都鬥了分子，穿孝服來上紙帛弔問。西門慶備席在捲棚內管待，請了吳大舅與溫秀才相陪，三個小優兒彈唱。 |
| At noon that day, there were also five officials from the county: County Magistrate Li Gongji, Deputy County Magistrate Qian Sicheng, Assistant Clerk Ren Lianggui, Chief Clerk Xia Gongji, and Yanggu County Magistrate Di Sixiu. They all pooled their contributions, wore mourning clothes, and came to offer paper offerings and condolences. ල Ximen Qing prepared a banquet in the pavilion to entertain them, inviting Uncle Wu and Censor Wen Xiucai as his guests, while three young opera performers played and sang. | ||
| 5 | 願同穴一... : | 正飲酒到熱鬧處，忽報：「管磚廠工部黃老爹來弔孝。」慌的西門慶連忙穿孝衣靈前伺侯，溫秀才又早迎接至大門外，讓至前廳，換了衣裳進來。家人手捧香燭紙匹金段到靈前，黃主事上了香，展拜畢，西門慶同敬濟下來還禮。黃主事道：「學生不知尊閫沒了，弔遲，恕罪，恕罪！」西門慶道：「學生一向欠恭，今又承老先生賜弔，兼辱厚儀，不勝感激。」敘畢禮，讓至捲棚上面坐下。西門慶與溫秀才下邊相陪，左右捧茶上來吃了。黃主事道：「昨日宋松原多致意先生，他也聞知令夫人作過，也要來弔問，爭奈有許多事情羈絆。他如今在濟州住紮。先生還不知，朝廷如今營建艮岳，敕令太尉朱勔，往江南湖湘採取花石綱，運船陸續打河道中來。頭一運將到淮上。又欽差殿前六黃太尉來迎取卿雲萬態奇峰──長二丈，闊數尺，都用黃氈蓋覆，張打黃旗，費數號船隻，由山東河道而來。況河中沒水，起八郡民夫牽輓。官吏倒懸，民不聊生。宋道長督率州縣，事事皆親身經歷，案牘如山，晝夜勞苦，通不得閑。況黃太尉不久自京而至，宋道長說，必須率三司官員，要接他一接。想此間無可相熟者，委託學生來，敬煩尊府做一東，要請六黃大尉一飯，未審尊意允否？」因喚左右：「叫你宋老爹承差上來。」有二青衣官吏跪下，氈包內捧出一對金段、一根沉香、兩根白蠟、一分綿紙。黃主事道：「此乃宋公致賻之儀。那兩封，是兩司八府官員辦酒分資──兩司官十二員、府官八員，計二十二分，共一百零六兩。」交與西門慶：「有勞盛使一備何如？」西門慶再三辭道：「學生有服在家，奈何，奈何？」因問：「迎接在於何時？」黃主事道：「還早哩，也得到出月半頭。黃太監京中還未起身。」西門慶道：「學生十月十二日才發引。既是宋公祖與老先生吩咐，敢不領命！但這分資決不敢收。該多少桌席，只顧吩咐，學生無不畢具。」黃主事道：「四泉此意差矣！松原委託學生來煩瀆，此乃山東一省各官公禮，又非松原之己出，何得見卻？如其不納，學生即回松原，再不敢煩瀆矣！」西門慶聽了此言，說道：「學生權且領下。」因令玳安、王經接下去。問備多少桌席，黃主事道：「六黃備一張吃看大桌面，宋公與兩司都是平頭桌席，以下府官散席而已。承應樂人，自有差撥伺候，府上不必再叫。」說畢，茶湯兩換，作辭起身。西門慶款留，黃主事道：「學生還要到尚柳塘老先生那裡拜拜，他昔年曾在學生敝處作縣令，然後轉成都府推官。如今他令郎兩泉，又與學生鄉試同年。」西門慶道：「學生不知老先生與尚兩泉相厚，兩泉亦與學生相交。」黃主事起身，西門慶道：「煩老先生多致意宋公祖，至期寒舍拱候矣。」黃主事道：「臨期，松原還差人來通報先生，亦不可太奢。」西門慶道，「學生知道。」送出大門，上馬而去。 |
| læ Just as the drinking was at its most lively, a sudden report came: "Huang Laoda from the Ministry of Works in charge of the brick factory has come to offer condolences." Startled, Ximen Qing hurriedly put on mourning clothes and waited by the spirit tablet. Wen Xiucailing was already waiting at the front gate to greet them, leading them into the front hall where they changed their attire before entering. The family members, holding incense, candles, paper offerings, and bolts of gold-threaded silk, presented them before the spirit tablet. Huang Zhushi offered incense and paid homage; after completing the ritual, Ximen Qing and Jing Ji descended to return the courtesy. Huang Zhushi said, "Your student did not know that your esteemed lady had passed away; my condolences are late. Please forgive me, please forgive me!" Ximen Qing said, "Your student has always been lacking in respect. Now I am further honored by the old master's condolences and generous gifts; I am deeply grateful." After completing the courtesy, they were led to sit above the veranda. Ximen Qing and Wen Xiucailing sat below to accompany them; tea was served by attendants on both sides, which they drank. Huang Zhushi said, "Yesterday, Song Songyuan sent many regards to you, Master. He also heard of the passing of your esteemed lady and wanted to come to offer condolences, but unfortunately he was tied up with many affairs." He is now stationed in Jizhou. You may not know, Master; the imperial court is now constructing Genyue. An edict has been issued to Taiwei Zhu Mian, ordering him to go to Jiangnan and Huxiang regions to collect flower stones for transport, with ships arriving continuously along the river route. The first shipment is about to arrive at Huai Shang. Also, the imperial envoy Liu Huang Taiwei from Dianqian has come to receive the "Qingyun Wentai Qifeng"──a rock formation two zhang long and several chi wide. All of it is covered with yellow felt, escorted by yellow flags, requiring numerous boats for transport, arriving via the Shandong river route. Moreover, since there is little water in the river, eight prefectures have been mobilized to provide laborers to pull and tow the boats. Officials are corrupt and burdensome; the people can hardly survive. Song Daizhang supervises and directs the prefectures and counties, personally experiencing every matter. His official documents pile up like mountains; he toils day and night with no time for rest. Moreover, Huang Taiwei will soon arrive from the capital; Song Daizhang said that he must lead officials from the three departments to meet him. Since there are no familiar acquaintances in this area, he has entrusted me to come and respectfully trouble your esteemed household to host a banquet. We would like to invite the six Huang Taiweis for a meal; I wonder if you would be willing?" He then called out to his attendants, "Bring up your Uncle Song Chengcha." Two officials in blue robes knelt down and presented from within the felt package a pair of gold-threaded bolts, a piece of agarwood, two candles made of white wax, and a set of fine paper. Huang Zhushi said, "These are the mourning gifts from Gong Song." Those two packages are the contributions from officials of the two departments and eight prefectures for wine and expenses──twelve officials from the two departments, eight officials from the prefectures, totaling twenty-two shares, amounting to 106 taels." They were handed over to Ximen Qing: "Would you be so kind as to prepare a banquet on our behalf?" Ximen Qing repeatedly declined, saying, "Your student is in mourning at home; how can I possibly do so? How can I?" He then asked, "When will the reception be held?" Huang Zhushi said, "It is still early; it should not be until halfway through next month." "Grand Secretary Huang has not yet departed from the capital." Ximen Qing said, "Your student will only send off the funeral procession on the twelfth day of the tenth month." Since it is an order from Gong Song and the esteemed master, how could I dare refuse! But I absolutely cannot accept this contribution. However many tables of food are needed, just give the orders; your student will see to it that everything is fully prepared." Huang Zhushi said, "Master Siquan's intention is mistaken!" "Songyuan entrusted me to trouble you; this is a public gift from officials throughout the entire Shandong province, not something personally offered by Songyuan. How can it be refused?" "If you refuse to accept it, your student will return directly to Songyuan and dare not trouble you again!" After hearing these words, Ximen Qing said, "Your student shall temporarily accept it." He then ordered Dai'an and Wang Jing to take them away. He asked how many tables of food should be prepared. Huang Zhushi said, "Grand Secretary Huang will prepare one large table for dining and viewing; Gong Song and the two departments will have regular-sized tables, while the prefectural officials below will only have informal meals." "The musicians for entertainment are already arranged and on standby; your household need not call for more." After saying this, the tea was changed twice, and they took their leave. Ximen Qing tried to retain them, but Huang Zhushi said, "Your student still needs to visit Old Master Shang Liutang. He once served as county magistrate in my humble district and later became a judicial official in Chengdu Prefecture." Now, his son Lianshan is also a fellow examinee of your student from the same provincial examination." Ximen Qing said, "Your student did not know that the esteemed master was close to Shang Lianshan; Lianshan is also personally acquainted with your student." Huang Zhushi rose to leave, and Ximen Qing said, "Please convey your student's regards to Gong Song. On the appointed day, I shall await you at my humble home." Huang Zhushi said, "On that day, Songyuan will also send someone to inform you in advance. You should not make it too extravagant." Ximen Qing replied, "Your student understands." They were seen out the main gate and then rode off on horseback. | ||
| 6 | 願同穴一... : | 那縣中官員，聽見黃主事帶領巡按上司人來，唬的都躲在山子下小捲棚內飲酒，吩咐手下把轎馬藏過一邊。當時，西門慶回到捲棚與眾官相見，具說宋巡按率兩司八府來，央煩出月迎請六黃太尉之事。眾官悉言：「正是州縣不勝憂苦。這件事，欽差若來，凡一應祇迎、廩餼、公宴、器用、人夫，無不出於州縣，州縣必取之於民，公私困極，莫此為甚。我輩還望四泉於上司處美言提拔，足見厚愛。」言訖，都不久坐，告辭起身而去。 |
| The county officials, upon hearing that Huang Zhushi had brought the superiors from the inspection mission, were so frightened they all hid in a small veranda beneath the hill to drink wine, and ordered their subordinates to hide the sedan chairs and horses on one side. At that time, Ximen Qing returned to the veranda and met with the officials there. He recounted in detail how Song Xunan was leading the two departments and eight prefectural officials, and had asked him to host a banquet for Grand Secretary Huang in early next month. The officials all said, "Indeed, the prefectures are overwhelmed with worry and hardship." If the imperial envoy comes, all matters related to reception, provisions, official banquets, equipment, and laborers must be provided by the prefectures. The prefectures can only obtain these from the people; both public and private sectors are exhausted, with nothing more burdensome than this. We all hope that Siquan will speak highly of us to his superiors and recommend our promotion, which would be a true sign of your kindness." After saying this, none of them stayed long; they all took their leave and departed. | ||
| 7 | 願同穴一... : | 話休饒舌。到李瓶兒三七，有門外永福寺道堅長老，領十六眾上堂僧來念經，穿雲錦袈裟，戴毗盧帽，大鈸大鼓，甚是齊整。十月初八日是四七，請西門外寶慶寺趙喇嘛，亦十六眾，來念番經，結壇跳沙，灑花米行香，口誦真言。齋供都用牛乳茶酪之類，懸掛都是九醜天魔變相，身披纓絡琉璃，項掛髑髏，口咬嬰兒，坐跨妖魅，腰纏蛇螭，或四頭八臂，或手執戈戟，朱發藍面，醜惡莫比。午齋以後，就動葷酒。西門慶那日不在家，同陰陽徐先生往墳上破土開壙去了，後晌方回。晚夕，打發喇嘛散了。 |
| Let us not dwell on further details. On the third week after Li Ping'er's passing, from outside the gate came Daodian Changlao of Yongfu Temple, leading sixteen monks to recite scriptures. They wore cloud-patterned saffron robes and Pilu hats, with large cymbals and drums; they were very orderly in appearance. The fourth week fell on the eighth day of the tenth month. They invited Lama Zhao from Baoqing Temple outside the western gate, also with sixteen monks, to recite Tibetan scriptures, build an altar and perform sand rituals, scatter flower seeds while incense was burned, and chant mantras aloud. The offerings were all made of milk, tea, and curd. The images hung up depicted the Nine Ugly Heavenly Demons in various forms; they wore tassels and glass ornaments, had skulls hanging around their necks, bit infants with their mouths, sat astride demons, had serpents wrapped around their waists, some had four heads and eight arms, others held spears or halberds in hand. They had red hair and blue faces, more grotesque than anything else. After the noon vegetarian meal, they immediately served meat and wine. Ximen Qing was not at home that day; he had gone with Xu Xiangyin to the grave site to break ground and prepare the tomb, returning only in the afternoon. In the evening, they sent away the lamas. | ||
| 8 | 願同穴一... : | 次日，推運山頭酒米、桌面餚品一應所用之物，又委付主管伙計，莊上前後搭棚，墳內穴邊又起三間罩棚。先請附近地鄰來，大酒大肉管待。臨散，皆肩背項負而歸，俱不必細說。 |
| The next day, they arranged for the transportation of wine, rice, tableware, delicacies and all other necessary items. They also entrusted the head steward to oversee the staff in setting up tents at the front and back of the estate, and built three small shelters near the grave site. First, they invited nearby neighbors to come, entertaining them with large quantities of wine and meat. As they were about to leave, all the guests went home carrying their share on their shoulders or backs; there is no need for further details. | ||
| 9 | 願同穴一... : | 十一日白日，先是歌郎並鑼鼓地弔來靈前參靈，弔《五鬼鬧判》、《張天師著鬼迷》、《鐘馗戲小鬼》、《老子過函關》、《六賊鬧彌陀》、《雪裡梅》、《莊周夢蝴蝶》、《天王降地水火風》、《洞賓飛劍斬黃龍》、《趙太祖千里送荊娘》，各樣百戲弔罷，堂客都在簾內觀看。參罷靈去了，內外親戚都來辭靈燒紙，大哭一場。 |
| On the eleventh day, during the daytime, first came the actors and drummers to perform at the spirit tablet. They performed "Five Ghosts Disturbing the Judge," "Zhang Tianshi's Ghostly Deception," "Zhong Kui Teasing Little Ghosts," "Laozi Crossing the Hangu Pass," "Six Thieves Disturbing Amitabha Buddha," "Plum Blossoms in Snow," "Chuang Zhou's Butterfly Dream," "The Heavenly King Subduing Earth, Water, Fire and Wind," "Dongbin Flinging His Sword to Slay the Yellow Dragon," and "Emperor Zhao Taizu Sends Jingniang a Thousand Li Away." After all these various performances were completed, the female guests watched from behind the curtains. After finishing their performance and leaving, relatives both inside and outside came to bid farewell by burning paper offerings before the spirit tablet and wept loudly. | ||
| 10 | 願同穴一... : | 到次日發引，先絕早抬出名旌、各項幡亭紙紮，僧道、鼓手、細樂、人役都來伺候。西門慶預先問帥府周守備討了五十名巡捕軍士，都帶弓馬，全裝結束。留十名在家看守，四十名在材邊擺馬道，分兩翼而行。衙門裡又是二十名排軍打路，照管冥器。墳頭又是二十名把門，管收祭祀。那日官員士夫、親鄰朋友來送殯者，車馬喧呼，填街塞巷。本家並親眷轎子也有百十餘頂，三院鴇子粉頭小轎也有數十。徐陰陽擇定辰時起棺，西門慶留下孫雪娥並二女僧看家，平安兒同兩名排軍把前門。女婿陳敬濟跪在柩前摔盆，六十四人上扛，有仵作一員官立於增架上，敲響板，指撥抬材人上肩。先是請了報恩寺僧官來起棺，轉過大街口望南走。兩邊觀看的人山人海。那日正值晴明天氣，果然好殯。但見： |
| On the next day of the funeral procession, early in the morning they carried out the honorific banners and various paper-made pavilions and flags. Monks and Taoist priests, drummers, musicians, and attendants all arrived to wait on duty. Ximen Qing had previously asked Zhou Shoubei of the Commandery Office for fifty patrol soldiers, all armed with bows and horses, fully equipped and ready. Ten were left at home to guard the house, while forty formed a horse-riding procession along the coffin's route, arranged in two wings. Another twenty soldiers from the government office cleared the way and took charge of the funeral goods. Twenty more were stationed at the tomb entrance to guard it and oversee the sacrificial offerings. On that day, officials, scholars, relatives, neighbors, and friends who came to see the funeral off caused a commotion with their carriages and horses, filling the streets and alleys. There were also more than a hundred sedan chairs from family members and relatives, while dozens of small sedan chairs for courtesans and beauties from the three houses were present as well. Xu Xiangyin had selected the hour of Chen for the coffin to be lifted. Ximen Qing left Sun Xue'e and two female nuns in charge of the house, while Ping'an Er and two soldiers guarded the front gate. Xu Xiangyin's son-in-law Chen Jingji knelt before the coffin and broke the clay pot in mourning. Sixty-four men lifted it, with one official 仵作 standing on a scaffold to strike a wooden board and direct those carrying the coffin onto their shoulders. First, they had invited monks from Baoren Temple to lift the coffin, then turned south and walked past the main street entrance. The streets on both sides were packed with people watching, as dense as mountains and seas. That day happened to be a clear and sunny one; indeed, it was an auspicious funeral. One could see: | ||
| 和風開綺陌，細雨潤芳塵，東方曉日初升，北陸殘煙乍斂。鼕鼕嚨嚨，花喪鼓不住聲喧；叮叮噹當，地弔鑼連宵振作。銘旌招颭，大書九尺紅羅；起火軒天，衝散半天黃霧。猙猙獰獰開路鬼，斜擔金斧；忽忽洋洋險道神，端秉銀戈。逍逍遙遙八洞仙，龜鶴繞定；窈窈窕窕四毛女，虎鹿相隨。熱熱鬧鬧採蓮船，撒科打諢；長長大大高蹺漢，貫甲頂盔。清清秀秀小道童一十六眾，都是霞衣道髻，動一派之仙音；肥肥胖胖大和尚二十四個，個個都是雲錦袈裟，轉五方之法事。一十二座大絹亭，亭亭皆綠舞紅飛；二十四座小絹亭，座座盡珠圍翠繞。左勢下，天倉與地庫相連；右勢下，金山與銀山作隊。掌醢廚，列八珍之罐；香燭亭，供三獻之儀。六座百花亭，現千團錦繡；一乘引魂轎，扎百結黃絲。這邊把花與雪柳爭輝，那邊寶蓋與銀幢作隊。金字幡銀字幡，緊護棺輿；白絹繖綠絹繖，同圍增架。功布招颭，孝眷聲哀。打路排軍，執欖桿前後呼擁；迎喪神會，耍武藝左右盤旋。賣解猶如鷹鷂，走馬好似猿猴。豎肩樁，打斤鬥，隔肚穿錢，金雞獨立，人人喝彩，個個爭誇。扶肩擠背，不辨賢愚；挨睹並觀，那分貴賤！張三蠢胖，只把氣吁；李四矮矬，頻將腳跕。白頭老叟，盡將拐棒拄髭鬚；綠髩佳人，也帶兒童來看殯。 | ||
| A gentle breeze opened the colorful paths, while drizzle moistened the fragrant dust. The morning sun in the east began to rise, and the lingering smoke from the north gradually dispersed. Dongdong longlong, the funeral drums sounded continuously without ceasing; Dingding dangdang, the performance gongs rang out all night in succession. The honorific banner fluttered, inscribed on a nine chi tall red silk cloth; The funeral pyre's smoke rose into the sky, dispersing the yellow haze in half the heavens. Fearsome and ferocious path-opening ghosts carried axes diagonally on their shoulders; Mysterious and ethereal road-protecting deities held silver halberds upright. Free and easy, the Eight Immortals of the Caves floated by, with turtles and cranes circling around them; Graceful and elegant were the Four Hairpin Maidens, accompanied by tigers and deer. Lively and bustling was the lotus-picking boat, full of playful teasing; Tall and imposing were the stilt-walkers, clad in armor and helmets. Sixteen clear and graceful young Daoist boys followed; all wore flowing robes and Daoist hairpins, producing a divine melody that stirred the air; Twenty-four stout and plump Buddhist monks followed; each wore cloud-patterned saffron robes, performing rituals for the five directions. Twelve large silk pavilions followed in procession; each pavilion fluttered with red and green banners dancing in the wind; Twenty-four smaller silk pavilions, each adorned with pearls and emerald ornaments. On the left side were the heavenly granary and earthly storehouses connected together; On the right side, golden mountains and silver hills formed a procession. The kitchen for preparing sauces displayed jars of the Eight Treasures; The incense and candle pavilion offered the three ceremonial presentations. Six flower pavilions displayed thousands of brocade-like floral arrangements; A spirit-guiding palanquin, adorned with hundreds of yellow silk tassels. On one side, flowers and willows vied in splendor; on the other, treasure canopies and silver banners formed a procession. Golden-charactered banners and silver-charactered banners closely guarded the coffin-bearer; White silk parasols and green silk parasols encircled and supported the funeral structure together. The honor banners fluttered, while the mourning relatives wept in sorrowful voices. Road-clearing soldiers, holding long poles, shouted and surged forward and backward; Funeral processional deities performed martial arts displays, circling left and right. The sword dancers moved like hawks and falcons; horse riders galloped as swiftly as monkeys. Shoulder poles were erected, acrobats performed somersaults, coins were threaded through the stomach, and one-legged stands like a golden rooster drew cheers from all, with everyone vying to praise them. Elbows jostled shoulders, making it impossible to distinguish the wise from the foolish; Crowded together and watching side by side, who could tell nobility from commoners! Zhang San, clumsy and stout, only managed to pant for breath; Li Si, short and hunched, frequently stomped his feet. White-haired old men used their canes to prop up their beards; Young women with green braids also brought children to watch the funeral. | ||
| 11 | 願同穴一... : | 吳月娘與李嬌兒等本家轎子十餘頂，一字兒緊跟材後。西門慶總冠孝服同眾親朋在材後，陳敬濟緊扶棺輿，走出東街口。西門慶具禮，請玉皇廟吳道官來懸真。身穿大紅五彩鶴氅，頭戴九陽雷巾，腳登丹舄，手執牙笏，坐在四人肩輿上，迎殯而來。將李瓶兒大影捧於手內，陳敬濟跪在前面，那殯停住了。眾人聽他在上高聲宣念： |
| Wu Yueliang, Li Jiaoer and other relatives had more than ten palanquins following closely behind the coffin in a straight line. Ximen Qing, wearing mourning attire, walked with relatives and friends behind the coffin; Chen Jingji closely supported the coffin-bearer as they exited through the eastern street entrance. Ximen Qing presented offerings and invited Master Wu of Yu Huang Temple to perform a ritual invocation. He wore a large red, five-colored crane robe, had on a Nine Yang Thunder Headcloth, donned crimson shoes, and held an ivory tablet in his hand. Sitting on a palanquin carried by four men, he arrived to accompany the funeral procession. He held in his hands the large portrait of Li Ping'er; Chen Jingji knelt before him, and thus the funeral procession halted. The crowd listened as he loudly recited from above: | ||
| 恭惟故錦衣西門恭人李氏之靈，存日陽年二十七歲，元命辛未相，正月十五日午時受生，大限於政和七年九月十七日醜時分身故。伏以尊靈，名家秀質，綺閣嬌姝。稟花月之儀容，蘊蕙蘭之佳氣。鬱德柔婉，賦性溫和。配我西君，克諧伉儷。處閨門而賢淑，資琴瑟以好和。曾種藍田，尋嗟楚畹。正宜享福百年，可惜春光三九。嗚呼！明月易缺，好物難全。善類無常，修短有數。今日棺輿載道，丹旆迎風，良夫躃踴於柩前，孝眷哀矜於巷陌。離別情深而難已，音容日遠以日忘。某等謬忝冠簪，愧領玄教。愧無新垣平之神術，恪遵玄元始之遺風。徒展崔巍鏡里之容，難返莊周夢中之蝶。漱甘露而沃瓊漿，超知識登於紫府；披百寶而面七真，引凈魄出於冥途。一心無掛，四大皆空。苦，苦，苦！氣化清風形歸土。一靈真性去弗回，改頭換面無遍數。眾聽末後一句：咦！精爽不知何處去，真容留與後人看。 | ||
| May the spirit of Lady Li, former Madam of the Jin Yi Guard Ximen, rest in peace. During her life she was twenty-seven years old at the time of her yang age; born on the wu hour of the fifteenth day of the first month under the xinwei zodiac year; and passed away at the chou hour on the seventeenth day of the ninth month during the seventh year of Zhenghe. You were a noble spirit, born of an esteemed family with graceful beauty; a delicate and charming maiden from a refined household. Possessing the grace of flowers and the moon in appearance, you carried within you the fragrant virtue of orchids and lilies. Your noble character was gentle and graceful; your nature was warm and kind. Mated to me, Master Ximen, you were a harmonious couple. In the boudoir, you displayed virtue and grace; with lute and zither, we shared harmony and affection. Once planted in Lantian's fields, now lamented in the fragrant gardens of Chu. Just beginning to enjoy a hundred years of happiness, alas, springtime was cut short at twenty-seven. Alas! Bright moons are easily marred, and fine things rarely remain whole. Virtuous people are not immune to the unpredictability of fate; longevity or brevity is all predestined. Today, the coffin-bearer fills the road and red banners flutter in the wind. A devoted husband stumbles before the bier, while mourning relatives grieve with sorrow along the streets. The depth of parting is profound and hard to bear; your voice and visage grow ever more distant, day by day fading from memory. We are unworthy individuals who have mistakenly taken up the headdress of office, ashamed to lead the Daoist faith. Shamed by our lack of divine arts like those of Xinyuan Ping, we strictly follow the legacy of the Primordial Dao. We can only display your towering visage in a mirror, but cannot return you as the butterfly from Zhuang Zhou's dream. Drinking sweet dew and nourishing with ambrosia, transcending knowledge to ascend to the Purple Palace; Clad in treasures and facing the Seven True Spirits, guiding your pure soul from the underworld path. With a single mind free of attachments, all four great elements are empty. Alas! Alas! Alas! Your breath becomes the clear wind, your form returns to the earth. One's true nature departs without return; countless rebirths await in endless transformations. All, listen to the final words: Eureka! The spirit's brilliance knows not where it has gone; only your true visage remains for future generations to see. | ||
| 12 | 願同穴一... : | 吳道官念畢，端坐轎上，那轎捲坐退下去了。這裡鼓樂喧天，哀聲動地，殯才起身，迤邐出南門。眾親朋陪西門慶，走至門上方乘馬，陳敬濟扶柩，到於山頭五里原。 |
| After Master Wu finished reciting, he sat upright in the palanquin; then the palanquin slowly withdrew with him seated inside. Here, drums and music filled the sky, while mournful cries shook the earth; only then did the funeral procession rise and slowly exit through the southern gate. Relatives and friends accompanied Ximen Qing on foot until they reached the gate, where they mounted their horses. Chen Jingji supported the bier all the way to Wuliyuan at the hilltop. | ||
| 13 | 願同穴一... : | 原來坐營張團練，帶領二百名軍，同劉、薛二內相，又早在墳前高阜處搭帳房，吹響器，打銅鑼銅鼓，迎接殯到，看著裝燒冥器紙紮，煙焰漲天。棺輿到山下扛，徐先生率仵作，依羅經弔向，巳時祭告后土方隅後，才下葬掩土。西門慶易服，備一對尺頭禮，請帥府周守備點主。衛中官員並親朋伙計，皆爭拉西門慶遞酒，鼓樂喧天，煙火匝地，熱鬧豐盛，不必細說。 |
| Originally, Captain Zhang of the garrison had led two hundred soldiers, along with the two eunuchs Liu and Xue. They had already set up tents on a high ground in front of the tomb earlier, blowing instruments, beating copper gongs and drums to welcome the funeral procession. They watched as people burned paper effigies and incense offerings, sending plumes of smoke into the sky. When the coffin-bearer arrived at the foot of the hill, Master Xu led the coroner and others to determine the direction using a compass. After an offering was made to the Earth Deity in the appropriate cardinal direction at the si hour, they finally buried her and covered the grave with earth. Ximen Qing changed into formal attire and prepared a pair of cloth gifts, inviting Captain Zhou from the Commandery Office to perform the soul-pointing ceremony. The officials from the Wei Commandery, along with relatives and business associates, all vied to pull Ximen Qing forward for toasting. Drums and music filled the sky; fireworks blanketed the ground. The celebration was lively and lavish—there is no need to describe it in detail. | ||
| 14 | 願同穴一... : | 吃畢，後晌回靈，吳月娘坐魂轎，抱神主魂幡，陳敬濟扶靈床，鼓手細樂十六眾小道童兩邊吹打。吳大舅並喬大戶、吳二舅、花大舅、沈姨夫、孟二舅、應伯爵、謝希大、溫秀才、眾主管伙計，都陪著西門慶進城，堂客轎子壓後，到家門首燎火而入。李瓶兒房中安靈已畢，徐先生前廳祭神灑掃，麼門戶皆貼闢非黃符。謝徐先生一匹尺頭、五兩銀子出門，各項人役打發散了。又拿出二十弔錢來，五弔賞巡捕軍人，五弔與衙門中排軍，十弔賞營裡人馬。拿帖兒回謝周守備、張團練、夏提刑，俱不在話下。西門慶還要留喬大戶、吳大舅眾人坐，眾人都不肯，作辭起身。來保進說：「搭棚在外伺候，明日來拆棚。」西門慶道：「棚且不消拆，亦發過了你宋老爹擺酒日子來拆罷。」打發搭彩匠去了。後邊花大娘子與喬大戶娘子眾堂客，還等著安畢靈，哭了一場，方纔去了。 |
| After the feast, in the afternoon they returned with the spirit. Wu Yueliang sat in a spirit-guiding palanquin holding the ancestral tablet and spirit banner; Chen Jingji supported the spirit bed, while sixteen young Daoist boys on either side played delicate music and drums. Uncle Wu Da, Qiao Dahu, Uncle Wu Er, Uncle Hua Da, Aunt Shen's husband-in-law, Uncle Meng Er, Ying Bojue, Xie Xida, Wen Xiucai, and the other managers and associates all accompanied Ximen Qing into the city. The ladies' palanquins followed behind, and upon arriving at their home entrance, they passed through a fire ritual before entering. After the spirit tablet of Li Ping'er was properly placed in her room, Master Xu performed a ritual to honor and purify the front hall; yellow talismans warding off evil were pasted on all doors. Xie gave Master Xu a bolt of cloth and five taels of silver before he left the house, after which all hired laborers were paid off and dispersed. Another twenty strings of cash were taken out: five strings to reward the patrol soldiers, five strings given to the gate guards at the yamen, and ten strings as a bonus for the garrison troops. He sent messages of thanks to Captain Zhou, Captain Zhang, and Inspector Xia; these details need not be elaborated further. Ximen Qing still wanted to keep Qiao Dahu, Uncle Wu Da and the others for a meal, but they all refused and took their leave. Lai Bao stepped forward to say, "The temporary shelter outside is ready; it will be dismantled tomorrow." Ximen Qing said, "There's no need to dismantle the shelter yet. Wait until after Old Man Song's banquet is held before taking it down." The workers who built the colorful canopy were then sent away. Behind, Lady Hua and Lady Qiao, along with other female guests, still waited until the spirit tablet was properly placed. After a weeping session, they finally left. | ||
| 15 | 願同穴一... : | 西門慶不忍遽舍，晚夕還來李瓶兒房中，要伴靈宿歇。見靈床安在正面，大影掛在旁邊，靈床內安著半身，裡面小錦被褥，床幾、衣服、妝奩之類，無不畢具，下邊放著他的一對小小金蓮，桌上香花燈燭、金碟樽俎，般般供養，西門慶大哭不止。令迎春就在對面炕上搭鋪，到夜半，對著孤燈，半窗斜月，翻覆無寐，長吁短嘆，思想佳人。有詩為證： |
| Ximen Qing could not bear to part so soon; in the evening he still came back to Li Ping'er's room, wishing to stay by her spirit tablet for the night. He saw the spirit bed placed in front, with her large portrait hanging nearby. Inside the spirit bed lay a half-body effigy wrapped in small brocade bedding; on the bedside table and dressing vanity were all manner of items fully prepared. Below was placed her pair of tiny golden lotus-shaped shoes. On the table stood incense, flowers, lamps, candles, golden plates, wine vessels, and sacrificial offerings—every item meticulously arranged. Ximen Qing wept uncontrollably. He ordered Yingchun to make a bed on the opposite kang. Through the night, facing only a solitary lamp and with moonlight slanting through half an open window, he tossed and turned without sleep, sighing deeply now and then, longing for his beloved. There is a poem to attest: | ||
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短嘆長吁對鎖窗，舞鸞孤影寸心傷。蘭枯楚畹三秋雨，楓落吳江一夜霜。 夙世已違連理願，此生難覓返魂香。九泉果有精靈在，地下人間兩斷腸。 | ||
| Long sighs and short laments by the barred window, A lone phoenix's shadow breaks my heart. The orchid withers in Chu's fragrant garden beneath autumn rains; Maple leaves fall on Wu River, blanketed by a night of frost. Our past-life wish for union has long been denied; In this life, it is hard to find the fragrance that brings souls back. If indeed her spirit lingers in the nine depths of hell, Both above and below, hearts are torn asunder. | ||
| 16 | 願同穴一... : | 白日間供養茶飯，西門慶俱親看著丫鬟擺下，他便對面和他同吃。舉起箸兒來：「你請些飯兒！」行如在之禮。丫鬟養娘都忍不住掩淚而哭。奶子如意兒，無人處常在跟前遞茶遞水，挨挨搶搶，掐掐捏捏，插話兒應答，那消三夜兩夜。這日，西門慶因請了許多官客堂客，墳上暖墓來家，陪人吃得醉了。進來，迎春打發歇下。到夜間要茶吃，叫迎春不應，如意兒便來遞茶。因見被拖下炕來，接過茶盞，用手扶被，西門慶一時興動，摟過脖子就親了個嘴，遞舌頭在他口內。老婆就咂起來，一聲兒不言語。西門慶令脫去衣服上炕，兩個摟在被窩內，不勝歡娛，雲雨一處。老婆說：「既是爹抬舉，娘也沒了，小媳婦情願不出爹家門，隨爹收用便了。」西門慶便叫：「我兒，你只用心伏侍我，愁養活不過你來！」這老婆聽了，枕席之間，無不奉承，顛鸞倒鳳，隨手而轉，把西門慶歡喜的要不的。 |
| During the day, when offerings of tea and food were made, Ximen Qing personally watched as the maidservants arranged them. He would then sit across from her spirit effigy and eat together with it. He raised his chopsticks and said, "Please have some food!" Performing the ritual as if she were still alive. The maidservant Yangniang could not help but weep silently, holding back her tears. The wet nurse Ru Yi, in private moments, often stood by his side to serve tea and water. She would cling closely, pinch and pat him affectionately, interjecting words and responding constantly—this went on for two or three nights without end. On this day, Ximen Qing had invited many official guests and ladies to the house. After returning home from a tomb-warming ceremony at his ancestors' gravesite, he entertained them and became drunk while keeping company with the guests. When they came in, Yingchun sent them away to rest. At night when he wanted tea, he called for Yingchun but she did not respond; then Ru Yi came and served him the tea. Seeing her dragged down from the kang, he took the tea cup and used his hand to hold up the quilt. In a moment of passion, Ximen Qing embraced her around the neck, kissed her on the mouth, and thrust his tongue into hers. The wet nurse began to suckle him, not uttering a single word. Ximen Qing ordered her to take off her clothes and get onto the kang, where they embraced in bed. The two of them were filled with joy as they made love together. The wet nurse said, "Since Master has shown me favor and my mother is already gone, I am willing to remain in your household. Let me be at your disposal." Ximen Qing then called out, "My child, as long as you serve me faithfully, I will never worry about not being able to support you!" Hearing this, the wet nurse became even more attentive in bed, flattering and pleasing him without fail. She danced like a phoenix and turned with ease, delighting Ximen Qing beyond measure. | ||
| 17 | 願同穴一... : | 次日，老婆早晨起來，與西門慶拿鞋腳，疊被褥，就不靠迎春，極盡殷勤，無所不至。西門慶開門尋出李瓶兒四根簪兒來賞他，老婆磕頭謝了。迎春知收用了他，兩個打成一路。老婆自恃得寵，腳跟已牢，無復求告於人，就不同往日，打扮喬模喬樣，在丫鬟夥內，說也有，笑也有。早被潘金蓮看在眼裡。 |
| The next day, the wet nurse got up early in the morning and fetched Ximen Qing's shoes, made his bed, and did not rely on Yingchun at all. She showed utmost diligence and kindness, going to great lengths for him. Ximen Qing opened the door and took out four hairpins from Li Ping'er as a reward for her; the wet nurse knelt down to thank him. Yingchun, knowing that he had taken her in, became close with her and they formed a bond together. Now that the wet nurse had gained favor and her position was secure, she no longer needed to beg for help from others. She was different from before, dressing up prettily and acting coyly among the maidservants, chatting and laughing as if nothing were amiss. This did not go unnoticed by Pan Jinlian. | ||
| 18 | 願同穴一... : | 早晨，西門慶正陪應伯爵坐的，忽報宋御史差人來送賀黃太尉一桌金銀酒器：兩把金壺、兩副金台盞、十副小銀鐘、兩副銀折盂、四副銀賞鐘；兩匹大紅彩蟒、兩匹金緞、十壇酒、兩牽羊。傳報：「太尉船隻已到東昌地方，煩老爹這裡早備酒席，準在十八日迎請。」西門慶收入明白，與了來人一兩銀子，用手本打發回去。隨即兌銀與賁四、來興兒，定桌面，粘果品，買辦整理，不必細說。因向伯爵說：「自從他不好起，到而今，我再沒一日兒心閑。剛剛打發喪事出去了，又鑽出這等勾當來，教我手忙腳亂。」伯爵道：「這個哥不消抱怨，你又不曾兜攬他，他上門兒來央煩你。雖然你這席酒替他陪幾兩銀子，到明日，休說朝廷一位欽差殿前大太尉來咱家坐一坐，只這山東一省官員，並巡撫巡按、人馬散級，也與咱門戶添許多光輝。」西門慶道：「不是此說，我承望他到二十已外也罷，不想十八日就迎接，忒促急促忙。這日又是他五七，我已與了吳道官寫法銀子去了，如何又改！不然，雙頭火杖都擠在一處，怎亂得過來？」應伯爵道：「這個不打緊，我算來，嫂子是九月十七日沒了，此月二十一日正是五七。你十八日擺了酒，二十日與嫂子念經也不遲。」西門慶道：「你說的是，我就使小廝回吳道官改日子去。」伯爵道：「哥，我又一件：東京黃真人，朝廷差他來泰安州進金鈴吊掛御香，建七晝夜羅天大醮，如今在廟裡住。趁他未起身，倒好教吳道官請他那日來做高功，領行法事。咱圖他個名聲，也好看。」西門慶道：「都說這黃真人有利益，請他到好，爭奈吳道官齋日受他祭禮，出殯又起動他懸真，道童送殯，沒的酬謝他，教他念這個經兒，表意而已。今又請黃真人主行，卻不難為他？」伯爵道：「齋一般還是他受，只教他請黃真人做高功就是了。哥只多費幾兩銀子，為嫂子，沒曾為了別人。」西門慶一面教陳敬濟寫帖子，又多封了五兩銀子，教他早請黃真人，改在二十日念經，二十四眾道士，水火煉度一晝夜。即令玳安騎頭口去了。 |
| In the morning, as Ximen Qing was sitting with Ying Bojie, a messenger suddenly arrived from Song Yushi, delivering a set of gold and silver wine vessels to celebrate Grand Marshal Huang: two golden ewers, two sets of golden table cups, ten small silver cups, two sets of folding silver bowls, and four sets of silver reward cups; two bolts of crimson brocade with dragon patterns, two bolts of gold satin, ten casks of wine, and two yokes of sheep. The messenger reported: "Grand Marshal Huang's boat has already arrived at the Dongchang area. We kindly request Master to prepare a banquet in advance, as he is expected to be received on the eighteenth day." Ximen Qing noted everything clearly and gave the messenger one tael of silver, then sent him off with a written receipt. He immediately gave the silver to Ben Si and Laixing'er, who arranged the banquet table, prepared the fruits, and made all necessary preparations; there is no need to go into further detail. He then said to Bojie, "Since the day he fell ill until now, I have not had a single day of peace in my heart. Just as I was finishing up the funeral arrangements, another such matter has come up out of nowhere, leaving me in a complete mess." Bojie said, "Brother, there's no need for you to complain. You didn't ask for him; he came knocking on your door and troubled you." Although you are spending a few taels of silver to host this banquet for him, tomorrow, aside from the imperial envoy and Grand Marshal Huang coming to our house, just the officials from the entire Shandong province, along with the provincial governor, censors, and military officers, will bring great honor and prestige to our household." Ximen Qing said, "That's not the point. I had hoped he would arrive after the twentieth day at the earliest; I didn't expect to have to welcome him on the eighteenth—it's far too sudden and hasty." It is also his thirty-fifth day of mourning, for which I have already given Wu Daoguan the silver to conduct a ritual. How can it now be changed! Otherwise, with two sets of torches and processions coming together in one place, how could we possibly manage the chaos?" Ying Bojie said, "That's not a problem. I've calculated it: your sister-in-law passed away on the seventeenth day of the ninth month; therefore, the twenty-first day of this month is exactly her thirty-fifth day." You can hold a banquet on the eighteenth and there will still be time to recite sutras for your sister-in-law on the twentieth." Ximen Qing said, "You're right. I'll send a boy to inform Wu Daoguan and change the date." Bojie said, "Brother, I have another matter to mention: Huang Zhenren from Dongjing has been sent by the court to Taian Zhou to present golden bells and incense offerings for a seven-day and night grand ritual. He is currently staying at the temple." While he hasn't yet risen, it would be better to have Wu Daoguan invite him on that day to serve as the high priest and lead the ritual proceedings. We can gain some reputation from this, which will also look good." Ximen Qing said, "Everyone says this Huang Zhenren is effective. It's good to invite him, but unfortunately Wu Daoguan received his offerings on a fasting day and was also involved in the funeral procession by hanging true images, with Daoist apprentices accompanying the coffin. We didn't properly thank or reward him, so we can only ask him to recite this sutra as a gesture of courtesy." Now if we again invite Huang Zhenren to preside over the ceremony, wouldn't that be putting him in an awkward position?" Bojie said, "The fasting day is still his as before; we just need to have him invite Huang Zhenren as the high priest." Brother, you'll only need to spend a few more taels of silver. It's all for your sister-in-law; we haven't done this for anyone else." Ximen Qing had Chen Jingji write an invitation while also giving him five more taels of silver, instructing him to invite Huang Zhenren early and change the sutra recitation to the twentieth day. Twenty-four Taoist priests would be present for a full day and night of water-fire purification rituals. He immediately ordered Dai'an to go on horseback. | ||
| 19 | 願同穴一... : | 西門慶打發伯爵去訖，進入後邊。只見吳月娘說：「賁四嫂買了兩個盒兒，他女兒長姐定與人家，來磕頭。」西門慶便問：「誰家？」賁四娘子領他女兒，穿著大紅緞襖兒、黃綢裙子，戴著花翠，插燭向西門慶磕了四個頭。月娘在旁說：「咱也不知道，原來這孩子與了夏大人房裡抬舉，昨日才相定下。這二十四日就娶過門，只得了他三十兩銀子。論起來，這孩子倒也好身量，不象十五歲，到有十六七歲的。多少時不見，就長的成成的。」西門慶道：「他前日在酒席上和我說，要抬舉兩個孩子學彈唱，不知你家孩子與了他。」於是教月娘讓至房內，擺茶留坐。落後，李嬌兒、孟玉樓、潘金蓮、孫雪娥、大姐都來見禮陪坐。臨去，月娘與了一套重絹衣服、一兩銀子，李嬌兒眾人都有與花翠、汗巾、脂粉之類。晚上，玳安回話：「吳道官收了銀子，知道了。黃真人還在廟裡住，過二十頭才回東京去。十九日早來鋪設壇場。」 |
| After sending Bojie off, Ximen Qing went into the inner quarters. He saw Wu Yueniang saying, "Ben Sige's wife has bought two boxes of gifts. Her daughter Changjie is to be betrothed and came here to kowtow." Ximen Qing asked, "To whom?" Ben Sige's wife led her daughter, dressed in a crimson satin jacket and yellow silk skirt, adorned with flowers and jewels. She lit incense and kowtowed to Ximen Qing four times. Wu Yueniang, standing by the side, said, "We didn't know about it either. It turns out this child has been given to Master Xia's household for raising; they only finalized the arrangement yesterday." The wedding will take place on the twenty-fourth day, and we received thirty taels of silver from them. To be honest, this child is quite well-proportioned; she doesn't look fifteen at all but rather sixteen or seventeen. She's grown so much since we last saw her—she looks like a proper young woman now." Ximen Qing said, "He told me the other day at a banquet that he wanted to raise two children to learn music and singing. I didn't know your child had been given to him." He then instructed Wu Yueniang to lead them into the room, serve tea, and invite them to sit. Later on, Li Jiaoer, Meng Yulou, Pan Jinlian, Sun Xue'e, and Dajie all came to greet them and sat with them. Before they left, Wu Yueniang gave them a set of heavy silk clothes and one tael of silver; Li Jiaoer and the others also received gifts such as floral hair ornaments, handkerchiefs, and cosmetics. In the evening, Dai'an reported back: "Wu Daoguan has received the silver and is aware of it." Huang Zhenren is still staying at the temple and will return to Dongjing after the twentieth day. He will come early on the nineteenth day to set up the ritual platform." | ||
| 20 | 願同穴一... : | 西門慶次日，家中廚役落作治辦酒席，務要齊整，大門上扎七級彩山，廳前五級彩山。十七日，宋御史差委兩員縣官來觀看筵席：廳正面，屏開孔雀，地匝氍毹，都是錦繡桌幃，妝花椅甸。黃太尉便是肘件大飯簇盤、定勝方糖，吃看大插桌；觀席兩張小插桌，是巡撫、巡按陪坐；兩邊布按三司，有桌席列坐。其餘八府官，都在廳外棚內兩邊，只是五果五菜平頭桌席。看畢，西門慶待茶，起身回話去了。 |
| The next day, Ximen Qing arranged for the cooks and servants at home to prepare a banquet with great care, making sure everything was in perfect order. Colorful paper mountains of seven tiers were erected on the main gate, and five-tiered ones in front of the hall. On the seventeenth day, two county officials sent by Song Yushi came to inspect the banquet: in front of the main hall, a peacock screen was displayed; the floor was covered with thick carpets. All the tables were draped with brocade and embroidered tablecloths, while the chairs were adorned with floral decorations. Grand Marshal Huang had large platters of elaborate dishes and square sugar candies for victory, all arranged on a grand central table for eating and viewing; two smaller side tables were set up for the provincial governor and censors to accompany him in seating; On both sides, officials from the three judicial departments of Bu An were seated at arranged tables. The remaining officials from the eight prefectures sat on both sides inside the tents outside the hall, with only simple tables offering five kinds of fruits and five kinds of vegetables. After inspecting everything, Ximen Qing served tea to them, then they rose and left after exchanging words. | ||
| 21 | 願同穴一... : | 到次日，撫按率領多官人馬，早迎到船上，張打黃旗「欽差」二字，捧著敕書在頭裡走，地方統制、守御、都監、團練，各衛掌印武官，皆戎服甲胄，各領所部人馬，圍隨，儀杖擺數里之遠。黃太尉穿大紅五彩雙掛繡蟒，坐八抬八簇銀頂暖轎，張打茶褐傘。後邊名下執事人役跟隨無數，皆駿騎咆哮，如萬花之燦錦，隨鼓吹而行。黃土塾道，雞犬不聞，樵採遁跡。人馬過東平府，進清河縣，縣官黑壓壓跪於道旁迎接，左右喝叱起去。隨路傳報，直到西門慶門首。教坊鼓樂，聲震雲霄，兩邊執事人役皆青衣排伏，雁翅而列。西門慶青衣冠冕，望塵拱伺。良久，人馬過盡，太尉落轎進來，後面撫按率領大小官員，一擁而入。到於廳上，又是箏琴、方晌、雲璈、龍笛、鳳管，細樂響動。為首就是山東巡撫都御史侯濛、巡按監察御史宋喬年參見，大尉還依禮答之。其次就是山東左布政龔共、左參政何其高、右布政陳四箴、右參政季侃廷、參議馮廷鵠、右參議汪伯彥、廉使趙訥、採訪使韓文光、提學副使陳正匯、兵備副使雷啟元等兩司官參見，太尉稍加優禮。及至東昌府徐崧、東平府胡師文、兗州府凌雲翼、徐州府韓邦奇、濟南府張叔夜、青州府王士奇、登州府黃甲、萊州府葉遷等八府官行廳參之禮，太尉答以長揖而已。至於統制、制置、守御、都監、團練等官，太尉則端坐。各官聽其發放，外邊伺候。然後，西門慶與夏提刑上來拜見獻茶，侯巡撫、宋巡按向前把盞，下邊動鼓樂，來與太尉簪金花，捧玉斝，彼此酬飲。遞酒已畢，太尉正席坐下，撫按下邊主席，其餘官員並西門慶等，各依次第坐了。教坊伶官遞上手本奏樂，一應彈唱隊舞，各有節次，極盡聲容之盛。當筵搬演《裴晉公還帶記》，一折下來，廚役割獻燒鹿、花豬、百寶攢湯、大飯燒賣。又有四員伶官，箏琴、琵琶、箜篌，上來清彈小唱。 |
| The next day, the provincial governor and censor led a large number of officials and troops to greet Grand Marshal Huang early at his boat. A yellow flag bearing the words "Imperial Envoy" was unfurled, with officials carrying the imperial decree walking ahead. Local commanders, garrisons, military supervisors, and militia leaders, along with all high-ranking officers in charge of their respective units, were clad in full armor and uniforms, each leading their troops to surround and accompany him. The ceremonial procession stretched for miles. Grand Marshal Huang wore a crimson, five-colored double-hung embroidered dragon robe. He rode in an eight-man sedan chair with silver-topped canopy and was followed by a tea-brown umbrella. Behind him, countless attendants and officials followed without end, all riding powerful steeds in a thunderous procession, like a dazzling brocade of myriad flowers, marching to the sound of music and drums. The yellow earth road was so crowded that not even chickens or dogs could be heard; woodcutters and foragers had all disappeared from sight. As the procession passed through Dongping Fu and entered Qinghe Xian, county officials knelt in a dark mass along the roadside to welcome him. They were then loudly ordered by attendants on both sides to rise and move aside. The news was passed along the way, all the way to Ximen Qing's gate. Musicians and drummers from the court orchestra played with such intensity that their sound shook the heavens. On both sides, attendants in dark blue robes stood in neat rows like wings of a wild goose formation. Ximen Qing, dressed in plain black robe and official hat, bowed respectfully from the roadside, watching with reverence as the procession passed by. After a long time, when all the troops and horses had passed by, Grand Marshal Huang stepped down from his sedan chair and entered. Behind him, the provincial governor and other officials led a crowd of high- and low-ranking officers who surged in together. Upon arriving at the hall, zithers, flutes, and other instruments such as yunao (a type of bell) and longdi (dragon flute), began to play soft music. Leading the procession was Hou Meng, the Shandong provincial governor and vice minister of supervision, followed by Song Qiaonian, the censurer. They paid their respects to Grand Marshal Huang, who responded in accordance with proper etiquette. Next came Gong Gong, the Left Governor of Shandong; He Qigao, the Left Assistant Governor; Chen Sizhen, the Right Governor; Ji Kantiang, the Right Assistant Governor; Feng Tinghu, the Deputy Counselor; Wang Boyan, the Assistant Counselor on the Right; Zhao Ne, the Inspector General; Han Wenguang, the Investigator; Chen Zhenghui, the Vice Director of Education; and Lei Qiyuan, the Military Preparatory Officer. These officials from both departments paid their respects as well, and Grand Marshal Huang showed them somewhat more generous courtesy. When the officials from Dongchang Fu, Xusong; Dongping Fu, Hu Shiwen; Yanzhou Fu, Ling Yunyi; Xuzhou Fu, Han Bangqi; Jinan Fu, Zhang Shuye; Qingzhou Fu, Wang Shiqi; Dengzhou Fu, Huang Jia; and Laizhou Fu, Ye Qian—all eight prefectural officials—performed the formal bow of respect in the hall, Grand Marshal Huang merely responded with a long 揖 (greeting gesture). As for the commanders, military supervisors, garrison officers, and militia leaders, Grand Marshal Huang simply sat upright without rising. The officials stood by to await his orders, waiting outside. Then, Ximen Qing and Xia Diting came forward to pay their respects and offer tea. Hou the governor and Song the censurer stepped forward with cups in hand. Below, musicians played as they presented golden flowers to Grand Marshal Huang and offered jade goblets of wine for mutual toasting. After the wine was served, Grand Marshal Huang took his seat at the main table. The governor sat to his side as host, while all other officials and Ximen Qing followed in order of rank and seated themselves accordingly. The court musicians presented their credentials and began to perform, with each group of dancers and singers following a carefully arranged sequence. The performance reached the height of splendor in music and dance. During the banquet, they performed "The Tale of Pei Jin Gong Returning His Sash." After one act, the cooks served roasted deer, flowered pigs, hundred-treasure soup, and large steamed dumplings. Four more court musicians then came forward to play zithers, pipas, and konghou (a type of harp), performing light melodies with soft singing. | ||
| 22 | 願同穴一... : | 唱畢，湯未兩陳，樂已三奏。下邊跟從執事人等，宋御史差兩員州官，在西門慶捲棚內自有桌席管待。守御、都監等官，西門慶都安在前邊客位，自有坐處。黃太尉令左右拿十兩銀子來賞賜各項人役，隨即看轎起身。眾官再三款留不住，即送出大門。鼓樂笙簧迭奏，兩街儀衛喧闐，清蹕傳道，人馬森列。多官俱上馬遠送，太尉悉令免之，舉手上轎而去。 |
| After the songs ended, two courses of soup had been served and the music played three times. Meanwhile, the attendants following from below were hosted by two local officials sent by Song Yushi. They had their own banquet tables and food prepared in Ximen Qing's pavilion. Ximen Qing also arranged accommodations for the garrison officers, military supervisors and others in front-row guest seats; they each had their own designated places to sit. Grand Marshal Huang ordered his attendants to bring ten taels of silver as a reward for the various staff and officials. Immediately afterward, he looked at his sedan chair and rose to leave. The officials tried repeatedly to persuade him to stay longer but failed; they then escorted him out of the main gate. Drums, flutes, and musical instruments played in succession; ceremonial guards filled both streets with noise. The procession cleared the way as people and horses stood in orderly ranks. All the officials mounted their horses to see him off at a distance, but Grand Marshal Huang politely declined and waved goodbye before entering his sedan chair. | ||
| 23 | 願同穴一... : | 宋御史、候巡撫吩咐都監以下軍衛有司，直護送至皇船上來回話。桌面器皿，答賀羊酒，具手本差東平府知府胡師文與守御周秀，親送到船所，交付明白。回至廳上，拜謝西門慶說：「今日負累取擾，深感，深感！分資有所不足，容當奉補。」西門慶慌躬身施禮道：「卑職重承教愛，累辱盛儀，日昨又蒙賻禮，蝸居卑陋，猶恐有不到處，萬里公祖諒宥，幸甚！」宋御史謝畢，即令左右看轎，與候巡撫一同起身，兩司八府官員皆拜辭而去。各項人役，一鬨而散。西門慶回至廳上，將伶官樂人賞以酒食，俱令散了，止留下四名官身小優兒伺候。廳內外各官桌面，自有本官手下人領不題。 |
| Song Yushi and the provincial governor ordered all military supervisors, guards, and local officials below the rank of doujian to escort Grand Marshal Huang back to his imperial barge and report upon arrival. The banquet tableware, gifts of sheep and wine for celebration, along with written credentials, were entrusted to Hu Shiwen, the governor of Dongping Fu, and Zhou Xiu, the garrison commander. They personally delivered everything to the ship's location and ensured a clear handover. After returning to the hall, he bowed in gratitude toward Ximen Qing and said, "Today's visit has been a great burden on you. I am deeply grateful!" "Should there be any shortfall in the expenses, I will make up for it personally." Ximen Qing hurriedly bowed and said, "Your subordinate is deeply honored by your kindness. I have been greatly embarrassed by such grand ceremonies. Moreover, yesterday I received your generous gifts of mourning money. My humble residence is lowly and modest; I fear there may still be many shortcomings. I sincerely hope you will forgive me, Your Honor!" After Song Yushi expressed his thanks, he immediately ordered his attendants to prepare the sedan chair and departed together with the incoming provincial governor. Officials from both administrations and eight prefectures all bowed in farewell before leaving. All the staff and officials dispersed in a commotion. Ximen Qing returned to the hall and rewarded the musicians and performers with food and drink, sending them all away. He only kept four young court entertainers as attendants. The banquet tables for officials inside and outside the hall were naturally managed by their own subordinates, which need not be mentioned here. | ||
| 24 | 願同穴一... : | 西門慶見天色尚早，收拾傢伙停當，攢下四張桌席，使人請吳大舅、應伯爵、謝希大、溫秀才、傅自新、甘出身、韓道國、賁四、崔本及女婿陳敬濟，──從五更起來，各項照管辛苦，坐飲三杯。不一時，眾人來到，擺上酒來飲酒。伯爵道：「哥，今日黃太尉坐了多大一回？歡喜不歡喜？」韓道國道：「今日六黃老公公見咱家酒席齊整，無個不歡喜的。巡撫、巡按兩位甚是知感不盡，謝了又謝。」伯爵道：「若是第二家擺這席酒也成不的，也沒咱家恁大地方，也沒府上這些人手。今日少說也有上千人進來，都要管待出去。哥就陪了幾兩銀子，咱山東一省也響出名去了。」溫秀才道：「學生宗主提學陳老先生，也在這裡預席。」西門慶問其名，溫秀才道：「名陳正匯者，乃諫垣陳了翁先生乃郎，本貫河南鄄城縣人，十八歲科舉，中壬辰進士，今任本處提學副使，極有學問。」西門慶道：「他今年才二十四歲？」正說著，湯飯上來。 |
| Seeing that it was still early in the day, Ximen Qing prepared everything properly and arranged four banquet tables. He sent a servant to invite Uncle Wu Da, Ying Bojue, Xie Xidai, Wen Xiucan, Fu Zixin, Gan Chushen, Han Dao guo, Bin Si, Cui Ben, and his son-in-law Chen Jingji — all of whom had been up since dawn managing various affairs. They were seated to drink three cups in appreciation for their hard work. In no time, the guests arrived and wine was served for them to drink. Ying Bojue said, "Brother, how long did Grand Marshal Huang sit today?" "Was he happy or not?" Han Daoguo said, "Today, Grand Marshal Huang saw that our banquet was well-prepared and everyone was delighted." The provincial governor and the censure commissioner were especially grateful, thanking us repeatedly. Ying Bojue said: "If another household tried to host such a banquet, they wouldn't be able to do it. They would not have our spacious venue or the staff available at your home." "Today alone, there were easily over a thousand people coming in, and we had to see them all off with hospitality." "Even though you spent only several taels of silver, our entire Shandong province will now be famous for it." Wen Xiucan said: "My teacher, Master Chen Laoxian of the provincial academy, was also present at this banquet." Ximen Qing asked for his name, and Wen Xiucan replied: "His name is Chen Zhenghui. He is the son of Master Chen Liaoweng from the imperial censors' office. Originally from Juancheng Xian in Henan Province, he passed the imperial examination at eighteen as a jinshi (advanced degree holder) during the Renchen year. Currently serving as vice provincial education commissioner here, he is extremely learned." Ximen Qing said: "He's only twenty-four years old this year?" They were still talking when the soup and rice arrived. | ||
| 25 | 願同穴一... : | 眾人吃畢，西門慶叫上四個小優兒，問道：「你四人叫甚名字？」答道：「小的叫周採、梁鐸、馬真、韓畢。」伯爵道：「你不是韓金釧兒一家？」韓畢跪下說道：「金釧兒、玉釧兒是小的妹子。」西門慶因想起李瓶兒來：「今日擺酒，就不見他。」吩咐小優兒：「你們拿樂器過來，唱個『洛陽花，梁園月』我聽。」韓畢與周採一面搊箏撥阮，唱道： |
| After everyone had finished eating, Ximen Qing called up four young entertainers and asked, "What are your names?" They replied: "We are named Zhou Cai, Liang Duo, Ma Zhen, and Han Bi." Ying Bojue asked, "Aren't you the family of Han Jinchuan?" Han Bi knelt and said: "Jinchuan and Yuchuan are my younger sisters." Ximen Qing then thought of Li Ping'er and said, "Today's banquet didn't include her." He ordered the young entertainers: "Bring your musical instruments over and sing 'Luoyang Flowers, Liangyuan Moon' for me." Han Bi and Zhou Cai plucked the zither and played the ruan while singing: | ||
| 【普天樂】洛陽花，梁園月。好花須買，皓月須賒。花倚欄桿看爛熳開，月曾把酒問團圞夜。月有盈虧，花有開謝。想人生最苦離別。花謝了，三春近也；月缺了，中秋到也；人去了，何日來也？ | ||
| [Putianle] Luoyang flowers, Liangyuan moon. Fine flowers must be bought; bright moons can only be borrowed. Flowers lean against the balustrade, blooming in full splendor; under the moonlight, wine was poured to ask about a round and perfect night. The moon waxes and wanes; flowers bloom and wither. Thinking of the bitterness of parting, one realizes it is the most painful aspect of life. When flowers wither, spring draws near; When the moon wanes, Mid-Autumn arrives; When people leave, when will they return? | ||
| 26 | 願同穴一... : | 唱畢，應伯爵見西門慶眼裡酸酸的，便道：「哥教唱此曲，莫非想起過世嫂子來？」西門慶看見後邊上果碟兒，叫：「應二哥，你只嗔我說，有他在，就是他經手整定。從他沒了，隨著丫鬟撮弄，你看象甚模樣？好應口菜也沒一根我吃！」溫秀才道：「這等盛設，老先生中饋也不謂無人，足可以夠了。」伯爵道：「哥休說此話。你心間疼不過，便是這等說，恐一時冷淡了別的嫂子們心。」 |
| After the song ended, Ying Bojue noticed tears welling in Ximen Qing's eyes and said: "Brother, are you singing this tune because it reminds you of your late sister-in-law?" Ximen Qing, seeing the fruit platters at the back, called out: "Erye Ge, don't be angry if I say this — whenever he was here, it was always him who arranged and prepared everything." "Ever since he passed away, the maids have been fumbling around. Look at how things are now!" "Not even a single piece of properly prepared vegetable has I eaten!" Wen Xiucan remarked, "With such an elaborate banquet, it is not as if there are no capable women in the household to manage affairs. It should be sufficient enough." Ying Bojue replied: "Brother, don't say such things." "You are hurting inside and saying this just now. I'm afraid it might make the other sisters-in-law feel neglected." | ||
| 27 | 願同穴一... : | 這裡酒席上說話，不想潘金蓮在軟壁後聽唱，聽見西門慶說此話，走到後邊，一五一十告訴月娘。月娘道：「隨他說去就是了，你如今卻怎樣的？前日他在時，即許下把繡春教伏侍李嬌兒，他到睜著眼與我叫，說：『死了多少時，就分散他房裡丫頭！』教我就一聲兒再沒言語。這兩日憑著他那媳婦子和兩個丫頭，狂的有些樣兒？我但開口，就說咱們擠撮他。」金蓮道：「這老婆這兩日有些別改模樣，只怕賊沒廉恥貨，鎮日在那屋裡，纏了這老婆也不見的。我聽見說，前日與了他兩對簪子，老婆戴在頭上，拿與這個瞧，拿與那個瞧。」月娘道：「豆芽菜兒──有甚捆兒！」眾人背地裡都不喜歡。正是： |
| While they were talking at the banquet, Pan Jinlian happened to be listening from behind a curtained partition. Upon hearing Ximen Qing say these words, she went to the back and told Yue Niang everything in detail. Yue Niang said: "Let them talk as they please; what are you going to do now?" "The day before yesterday, while he was still alive, he promised to assign Xiu Chun to serve Li Jiaoer. Yet when I actually did it, he opened his eyes and scolded me, saying: 'He's been dead for so long already — why are you now dispersing the maids from his quarters?'" I didn't utter another word after that. "These past two days, with his wife and the two maids acting so boldly, are they getting out of hand?" "As soon as I open my mouth to say something, she accuses us of conspiring against him." Jinlian said, "This old woman has been acting strangely these past two days. I fear that shameless wretch spends all day in her room, and no one can see them together." "I heard that the other day she gave her two pairs of hairpins. The old woman wore them on her head, showing one to this person and another to that." Yue Niang said: "Radishes — what a big deal!" Everyone behind the scenes was secretly unhappy. Indeed: | ||
| 遺蹤堪入時人眼，多買胭脂畫牡丹。 | ||
| His lingering traces may still catch the eyes of people, yet they only buy more rouge to paint peonies. |
URN: ctp:jinpingmei/ch65