| Chinese Text Project Wiki |
《第二十一回 比美方容定評甲乙 葬花祭雪感格神靈 Chapter 21: Comparing Beauty and Deciding Between Jia and Yi; Burying Flowers and Honoring Snow, Touching the Spirits》[View] [Edit] [History]
An aligned English translation of this text is available and can be displayed alongside the source text (instructions). Please note that AI has been used in creating these translations. Translation setting: [None] [English]1  | 話說湘蓮舞劍煞手之時，雙劍一分，砍倒兩株拱把的柳樹，嚇得人人驚恐。湘雲問寶釵道：「寶姊姊，你最明事理，柳二哥休劍，為什麼要砍倒兩株樹？」寶釵道：「這要問柳二嫂子才知道。」妙玉說：「他的劍舞到這個光景，周身的勁都貫足在劍鋒，劈空再休不住，必需觸物乃止。許多相好央他舞劍，只舞過兩次。院子里埋著木樁，收的時候，一砍兩段。」湘雲道：「你家用木匠做東西，只叫二哥舞劍砍成段子，木匠不用銀子。」說得眾人大笑。 When Xianglian was finishing his sword dance with a decisive move, the two swords suddenly separated and cut down two willow trees as thick as an arm's girth, frightening everyone into alarm. Xiangyun asked Baocai, "Sister Bao, you are the most sensible. When Erge Liu stopped his sword dance, why did he have to cut down two trees?" Baocai said, "You must ask Erpo Liu's wife to know." Miaoyu said, "When his sword dance reaches this stage, all the force in his body is concentrated at the tip of the sword. If he stops mid-air, it cannot be controlled; it must strike something to stop." Many friends have asked him to perform his sword dance, but he has only danced twice. "Wooden stakes are buried in the courtyard; when he finishes, one strike splits them into two pieces." Xiangyun said, "If you need carpenters to make things at your home, just ask Erge to perform his sword dance and cut them into pieces; the carpenter won't charge any silver." This made everyone laugh heartily. |
| 2 | 男客散歸花廳，女客又到花園散逛。夜間各處張燈，水亭水廓盡掛琉璃圓珠燈，池中倒影，燈火參差，樓臺沉靜。亭內女客唱曲，花廳男客串戲。寶玉東奔西走，無所適從。鬧到更闌，方才內外各散。 The male guests dispersed and returned to the Huating, while the female guests went to stroll around the garden again. At night, lanterns were hung everywhere; round crystal pearl lanterns adorned the water pavilions and corridors. The reflections of the lights shimmered in the pond, creating a scene where lights flickered unevenly and the towers stood quietly still. Inside the pavilion, female guests sang songs, while male guests in the Huating performed plays. Baoyu ran back and forth, feeling at a loss about where to go. The revelry continued until the end of the night watch, when finally everyone inside and outside dispersed. |
| 3 | 次日寶玉方起，傳聞薛姨媽家有報子爭索喜錢。原來寶玉代王子騰的孫子、邢夫人的侄孫、並探春姑爺、湘雲姑爺、甄寶玉、梅翰林之子等謀幹之時，因薛蝌奮志青雲，即代為納監，後首與寶琴姑爺同點翰林。寶玉又代薛蟠贖罪回來。薛蟠想要做官，代其捐了縣丞，分發在京城附近地方。今因拿獲一伙盜犯，首從數名均已嚴刑伏法，潛逃去一名，未曾緝捕，因此超升知縣；報子開發去後，諸親友來道喜。薛府開賀，請酒、唱戲，賈、林、周、柳、甄、梅、王、邢各家男女等眾，一連又熱鬧了幾天。 The next day, Baoyu got up late, and he heard rumors that Madam Xue's family had messengers coming to demand wedding money. Originally, when Baoyu was helping to arrange official positions for the grandson of Prince Wang Ziteng, the nephew-grandson of Madam Xing, Tanchun's husband, Xiangyun's husband, Zhen Baoyu, and the son of Mei Hanlin, he had already sponsored Xue Ke to enter the imperial examination system out of admiration for his lofty aspirations. Later on, he was appointed as a Hanlin official together with Baoqin's husband. Baoyu also helped Xue Pan redeem his crime and return. Xue Pan wanted to become an official, so Baoyu sponsored him for the position of Xiancheng (a county assistant), and he was assigned to a place near the capital. Now, because a gang of thieves was captured, several ringleaders and accomplices had already confessed under severe interrogation and were punished according to law. One criminal escaped and had not yet been apprehended; therefore, the county magistrate received an unexpected promotion. After the official notification was sent out, relatives and friends came to offer their congratulations. The Xue family held a celebration, serving wine and staging plays. Men and women from the Jia, Lin, Zhou, Liu, Zhen, Mei, Wang, and Xing families all attended, and for several more days, it was another round of lively festivities. |
| 4 | 且說薛蟠所拿盜犯，因打劫過多家，並孫紹祖家的家財，紹祖率家丁與鬥，伙盜遁去。紹祖身被重傷，臥床兩月，喊叫如牛，血枯而斃。迎春冤孽至此才銷。往後去，薛蟠調缺回京途中，遇著潛逃的那名盜犯代同伙報仇，在旅店中暗施毒藥，薛蟠誤服而死。此乃兩傷人命，未經抵賞之報，後文預先交代。 Now, regarding the thieves captured by Xue Pan, they had robbed many households, including Sun Shaozu's family wealth. Shaozu led his household retainers to fight them off, and the gang of robbers fled. Shaozu was seriously injured, bedridden for two months, shouting like an ox in agony, and eventually died from blood loss. Thus, Yingchun's grievance and karma were finally resolved. Later, on his way back to the capital after being reassigned, Xue Pan encountered that escaped thief who had come to avenge his accomplices. In an inn, the thief secretly poisoned him; Xue Pan mistakenly consumed it and died. This incident involved two unjust deaths without prior retribution or reward, which will be revealed in advance in the following narrative. |
| 5 | 展眼又交芒種，黛玉約眾姊妹做餞花會。是日清晨，同喜鸞往北郡王府拜太妃生日。寶玉拜過壽，假說有事，即忙回家，來到秋爽齋。湘雲、探春問道：「二嫂子合喜妹妹怎麼還不回來？」寶玉跺足道：「偏是太妃高興，留他們吃酒，只怕晚上才得回來，今日的會豈不掃興！」湘雲道：「急什麼？就到晚上點著花籃燈餞花，還不有趣嗎？」寶玉即刻叫人到花塚上搭彩棚。 Before long came Mangzhong Festival; Daiyu invited all her sisters to hold a flower-farewell gathering. On this day in the early morning, they went with Xiluan to visit the Northern Jun Prince's Mansion to pay respects on the birthday of the Tai Fei. After paying his respects on the occasion of someone's birthday, Baoyu made an excuse that he had something to attend to and hurried home, arriving at Qiushuang Zhai. Xiangyun and Tanchun asked, "Why haven't Erpo's wife and Xipian come back yet?" Baoyu stamped his foot and said, "It's just that the Tai Fei is in a good mood and kept them to drink wine. They might not return until tonight. Won't today's gathering be ruined?" Xiangyun said, "Why are you so anxious?" "Even if we hold the flower-farewell ceremony at night with lanterns and flower baskets, wouldn't it still be fun?" Baoyu immediately ordered people to set up a colorful tent at the flower grave. |
| 6 | 正在忙亂，寶釵、鶯兒、麝月、秋紋到了，問什麼事搭彩棚。湘雲告以原委，寶釵道：「等人到齊，大家商議。晌午時候，林妹妹包管回來的。」寶玉道：「太妃留住了，怎麼得來？」寶釵道：「妹妹自有脫身之計。況且太妃疼愛妹妹像親生女兒似的，妹妹要回來，有什麼不依哩？」鴛鴦、玉釧、襲人、碧痕也來了，鴛鴦道：「才剛奶奶說什麼不依，到底什麼事？誰不依？」寶釵告以前事，鴛鴦道：「郡主必定早回，且叫人去打聽打聽。如果回來得晚，咱們就依雲姑娘的辦法，扎兩號結彩燈船，將各花用紗囊盛著，挂在船上，從沁芳閘游到花塚上坡。咱們各人的花囊自己捧著，每人面前四對鬚絡彩畫琉璃花籃燈，將花送去掩埋好了，咱們坐上燈船，吹打唱曲回來，可好麼？」寶玉、湘雲齊道：「一定是這麼著。」探春道：「你們很會玩，今兒要鬧夜局了。」寶釵道：「還該等大家商議。」正說著，佩鳳、偕鸞、寶琴、岫煙、香菱也到了，雙蘭、李綺約同李紋又陸續到了，隨後惜春來到，問妙玉怎麼還不來，丫頭回說：「已請過了，柳二奶奶要先在自己園裏餞過花，再到這邊來。」 Just as they were in the midst of the commotion, Baocai, Ying'er, Shuyue, and Qiuren arrived and asked why a colorful tent was being set up. Xiangyun explained the whole situation. Baocai said, "Wait until everyone arrives and we can discuss it together." "Lady Lin will definitely return by noon." Baoyu said, "The Tai Fei has detained them. How can they possibly come?" Baocai replied, "My sister will surely find a way to leave." "Besides, the Tai Fei loves her like a real daughter. If my sister wants to come back, would she not agree?" Yanyang, Yuchuan, Xi Ren, and Bihen also arrived. Yanyang asked, "Just now the lady said something about not agreeing—what exactly is going on?" "Who is refusing it?" Baocai recounted the previous events. Yanyang said, "The princess must have returned already; let's send someone to check." "If she returns late, we'll follow Miss Yun's suggestion. Let us make two decorated lantern boats, put all the flowers in gauze bags and hang them on the boats, then float from Qinfang Zhae up to the flower grave." "We can each carry our own flower bags, and in front of everyone place four pairs of embroidered silk lanterns with painted crystal flower basket designs. We'll send the flowers to be buried properly, then board the lantern boats and return while playing music and singing songs—how does that sound?" Baoyu and Xiangyun both said in agreement, "That's definitely the way to do it." Tanchun said, "You two are very good at having fun. We're going to have a night-long celebration today." Baocai said, "We should still wait for everyone's opinion first." Just as they were talking, Peifeng, Xieluan, Baoqin, Xiuyan, and Xiangling also arrived. Shuanglan, Li Qi, and Li Wen came one after another. Shortly afterward, Xichun arrived and asked why Miaoyu had not come yet. A maid replied, "She has already been invited; Madam Liu Er wants to hold a farewell for the flowers in her own garden first before coming here." |
| 7 | 寶釵道：「要辦夜局，趕早合璉二嫂子說。」寶玉道：「我去。」一徑來到議事廳，李紈正合平兒開發事件。寶玉道：「二嫂子請你就去，大家候著你呢！」平兒道：「二爺先請，我把幾件事開發了就來。」寶玉道：「遲一刻，只怕那班最可厭的東西一起一起的回話，又要耽誤了，我同嫂子一陣去的好。」平兒趕快開發了，合寶玉同來。只見丫頭迎來報說：「二位郡主回來了。」寶玉大喜，連忙趕往瀟湘館。這裡平兒見過眾人，商量了一會，再二五成群的散逛。 Baocai said, "If we are to hold a night gathering, we should inform Erpo's wife as soon as possible." Baoyu said, "I'll go." He went straight to the meeting hall, where Li Wan was just settling affairs with Ping'er. Baoyu said, "Sister Erpo, please go right away; everyone is waiting for you!" Ping'er replied, "Master Erge, please go ahead. I'll finish up a few matters and come right after." Baoyu said, "If we delay even a moment, I'm afraid those most annoying people will come in batches to report things and cause more delays. It's better for me to go with you at once." Ping'er quickly finished up the matters and came along with Baoyu. They were just about to proceed when a maid rushed over to report, "The two princesses have returned." Baoyu was greatly delighted and hurriedly went toward Xiaoxiang Guan. Meanwhile, Ping'er greeted the others, discussed for a while, and then people dispersed in groups of two or five to stroll around. |
| 8 | 探春、湘雲、香菱、平兒、鴛鴦、玉釧、襲人來到紅香圃，湘雲道：「咱們躺著歇歇。回來林姊姊一到，人都齊全了，各有各事，晚上又有夜局。這會兒我倒有些懶懶的。」探春道：「咱們七人，除開香菱姊姊，都是雙料的，如何不懶？再過兩個月，只怕你時刻躺著，連飯都懶得吃呢！」 Tanchun, Xiangyun, Xiangling, Ping'er, Yanyang, Yuchuan and Xi Ren arrived at Hongxiang Pu. Xiangyun said, "Let's lie down and rest a while." "When Lady Lin arrives later, everyone will be complete; each person has their own task, and there's also the night gathering in the evening." "At this moment, I feel a bit lazy." Tanchun said, "We are seven people; excluding Lady Xiangling, we're all double-qualified. How could we not feel lazy?" "In another two months, I'm afraid you'll be lying around every moment and even too lazy to eat your meals!" |
| 9 | 玉釧歪在炕上，一眼望著平兒，細細的打略。只見平兒穿著月白織花洋夏布大褂，元細滾白紗百褶裙，頭上一股羊脂玉釵，裴翠雙圈耳環，手上套一副純白瑪淄鐲，間著伽南香串。玉釧呆呆的望著，只是點頭。平兒道：「你盡管瞧著我，代我相面嗎？」玉釧道：「咱們二爺道地是個鑒家，他常說：凡標致女人，越談妝越好看。雲姑娘，三姑娘，瞧瞧他，可比往常格外標致了？」探春道：「好多著哩！」湘雲道：「可喜龐兒淺談妝，穿一套鎬素衣裳。」 Yuchuan lay on the kang, gazing at Ping'er with a sidelong glance and scrutinizing her carefully. She saw Ping'er wearing a moon-white woven floral foreign summer cotton robe, with a pale blue rolled white gauze pleated skirt. In her hair was a single jade comb of sheep-fat quality; she wore emerald double-loop earrings and on her arms were a pair of pure white mazarine bangles interspersed with kanan incense beads. Yuchuan gazed at her dazedly, nodding only in silence. Ping'er said, "You may look all you want—trying to read my fortune by face-reading?" Yuchuan replied, "Our Master Erge is truly an expert in appraising things. He often says: the more a beautiful woman talks and puts on makeup, the prettier she becomes." "Miss Yun, Third Miss, take a look at her—doesn't she look even more beautiful than usual?" Tanchun said, "She looks much better!" Xiangyun remarked, "Her light makeup and plain attire suit her well." |
| 10 | 平兒道：「雲姑娘別拿我開心，我這個燒糊的卷子算什麼？咱們家實在可惜了二姨兒，那才算得個標致的。」鴛鴦道：「蓉大奶奶合二姨兒還不是一對於嗎？」玉釧道：「咱們兩府裡的人，標致的很多，今兒倒要大家細細評評。」襲人道：「柳二奶奶合喜姑娘又是天生一對。」探春道：「這四位，畢競誰強一點子？誰差一點兒？」襲人道：「咱們也評過，這四位，再配上晴大姨娘，可稱五美。細細比較起來，難分高下。」香菱道：「評差了，且把芙蓉女撂開，他與這四位不同。先把四位到底要分個伯仲叔季，據我說，首取柳二奶奶。」玉釧道：「我的意思尤二姨娘為最，那種柔媚令人疼愛的樣兒，再沒人比得他上。」鴛鴦道：「你這話偏了，難道蓉大奶奶又不是這樣的嗎？比二姨還豐富點子。據我說，數他第一。」湘雲道：「你這話也差了，喜姑娘的頭臉、手腳、身量、七孔、五官、皮膚，那一件不強似他們三個？我最愛他那張菱角嘴，腮邊兩個小窩兒，一笑起來愛殺了人，要取他為首。」香菱道：「我說柳二奶奶當居第一，不說別的，只看他那雙秋水盈盈的眼睛，把人一望，任他鐵石人都要銷魂。再他的肌膚、模樣兒，上上下下，那一件比這三位差了嗎？他的文才學識還不好嗎？」鴛鴦道：「現論容貌，別說文才。」香菱道：「就論容貌，四位中無出其右。」探春向平兒、襲人道：「他們評的都不差，咱們怎麼說？」 Ping'er said, "Miss Yun, don't tease me. What am I but a burnt offering in the oven?" "Our family really is unfortunate to have lost my second aunt—she was truly beautiful." Yanyang said, "Isn't Madam Rongda and your second aunt also a pair of beauties?" Yuchuan said, "There are many beautiful people in both our households. Today we should take the time to evaluate them carefully." Xi Ren said, "Madam Liu Er and Miss Xi are a naturally matched pair." Tanchun asked, "Among these four, who is slightly more beautiful?" "Who is a bit less so?" Xi Ren said, "We've discussed this before. These four, together with Madam Qing, can be called the Five Beauties." "When carefully compared, it's hard to determine who is superior or inferior." Xiangling said, "If you make a mistake in the evaluation, just set aside Lady Lotus Blossom; she is different from these four." "First, we must determine a clear ranking among the four. In my opinion, Madam Liu Er should be ranked first." Yuchuan said, "In my opinion, Madam You Erniang is the most beautiful. Her gentle and charming demeanor makes people feel affection for her; no one can surpass her." Yanyang said, "You're biased. Is Madam Rongda not the same?" "She is even a bit more graceful than Madam Erniang." "In my opinion, she should be ranked first." Xiangyun said, "Your statement is also wrong. Miss Xi's face, hands and feet, figure, seven orifices, facial features, and skin—how can any of these not surpass the other three?" "I love her most for that pointed little mouth, and the two small dimples on her cheeks. When she smiles, it's absolutely charming; I would rank her first." Xiangling said, "I say Madam Liu Er should rank first. I won't mention anything else—just look at her eyes, full of autumn water. When she glances at someone, even a heart of iron or stone would be moved to soul-shattering emotion." "Besides her skin and appearance, from head to toe, how can any of these aspects be worse than the other three?" "And isn't her literary talent and knowledge also excellent?" Yanyang said, "Let's discuss appearance for now; don't mention literary talent." Xiangling replied, "Even if we only talk about beauty, none among the four can surpass her." Tanchun turned to Ping'er and Xi Ren and said, "Their evaluations are not wrong. What do you two think?" |
| 11 | 正在辯論，恰好妙玉、晴雯攜著手來了。只見妙玉雲鬟高髻，簪著玉釵翠鈿；穿著談綠素紗繡冰梅的襖、白素羅百褶裙。晴雯頭上籠著堆雲髻，蟬鬢上貼著一圍翠絡花鈿，橫斜一支裴翠簪，上首一個顫巍巍珠蝴蝶；穿件翠藍素紗闊鑲花襖，上面堆著八個三色金錢夾孔雀尾編成的花籃，各色線繡的大朵時花，天青闊鑲邊上三藍洋蓮翻漢紋，又釘著珊瑚、各色東洋珠，下繫嬌黃羅滿繡三藍夾談五色的百疊裙。通體光華，人衣艷麗。二人一路說笑，冉冉行來。 Just as they were debating, Miaoyu and Qingwen happened to arrive hand in hand. Miaoyu was seen with her hair piled high in an elegant bun, adorned with jade combs and emerald decorations; she wore a light green plain silk jacket embroidered with ice plum blossoms and a white plain silk pleated skirt. Qingwen wore a piled cloud bun on her head, with cicada-like side buns adorned by a row of emerald floral decorations. A crooked emerald hairpin was inserted across the top, and above it hung a trembling pearl butterfly. She wore a broad-trimmed embroidered jacket in light blue plain silk; on its front were eight flower baskets made from three-colored gold coins and peacock feathers, each filled with large, colorful embroidered seasonal flowers. The sky-blue wide trim featured three-color foreign lotus patterns in Han-style embroidery, further decorated with coral and various Eastern pearls. Below, she wore a bright yellow silk pleated skirt fully embroidered with three-color designs and five-colored patterns. Her entire appearance was radiant; both her person and attire were brilliantly beautiful. The two walked along, chatting and laughing, moving gracefully forward. |
| 12 | 香菱對眾人道：「咱們細細瞧瞧他們二位。」妙玉、晴雯來到，大家一面問好，一面細細打略。湘雲向探春低低說道：「菱姊姊的話不差。他兩個比並起來，乍看難分高下，細比起來，晴雯姊係要強點兒。這所以然的道理，竟說不出來。」探春道：「一個濃妝艷麗，一個談飾幽研，自然濃妝見強。」湘雲說：「我有個辦法。」問妙玉、晴雯道：「你二人今兒可係約會的？這麼打扮，一濃一淡，搭配的很好。」妙玉道：「各人打扮，愛怎樣就怎樣，為什麼要約會呢？」湘雲道：「不為別的，他們說你兩人如天仙下凡似的。可能夠兩人的衣裙對換著穿起來，給大伙兒瞧瞧？橫豎你二位身量、長短一樣。」晴雯道：「這又值什麼？咱們就換起來。」妙玉道：「你們很會玩，人家穿的衣服也要換來換去。」于是二人寬衣褪裙，調換好了。又細細端詳一會，香菱暗向探春、湘雲道：「柳二奶奶濃妝起來格外好了，芙蓉女談妝起來格外更好了。」探春、湘雲道：「這個實在奇了，你的眼法很準，咱們服了你。」妙玉道：「諸位可看夠了？咱們要還原了。」二人將衣裙換回，晴雯道：「叫咱們脫了又穿，穿了又脫，到底為什麼呢？」 Xiangling said to the others, "Let's take a good look at these two." When Miaoyu and Qingwen arrived, everyone greeted them while carefully observing their appearance. Xiangyun whispered to Tanchun, "Sister Xiangling's words are not wrong." Compared with each other, at first glance it is hard to tell who is superior; but upon closer comparison, Sister Qingwen seems slightly better. But the exact reason for this remains unspoken." Tanchun said, "One is heavily made up and brilliantly adorned, while the other wears a light, elegant style. Naturally, the more elaborate look appears stronger." Xiangyun said, "I have an idea." She asked Miaoyu and Qingwen, "Are the two of you meeting by appointment today?" "Dressed like this, one in bold colors and the other in soft tones, they complement each other very well." Miaoyu said, "Each person dresses as she pleases. Why would we need to make an appointment?" Xiangyun replied, "Not for any other reason—people say the two of you look like heavenly immortals descending to the mortal world." "Perhaps the two could switch dresses and skirts, so everyone can see?" "After all, you two are of the same height and build." Qingwen said, "What's the big deal about that?" "Let's just switch." Miaoyu said, "You all know how to have fun. People also change their clothes back and forth." Then the two took off their outer garments and skirts and exchanged them. After carefully examining for a while, Xiangling whispered to Tanchun and Xiangyun, "When dressed in bold makeup, Lady Liu looks especially good; when dressed simply, Lotus Girl looks even better." Tanchun and Xiangyun said, "This is really amazing. Your eye for detail is very sharp; we are truly impressed by you." Miaoyu asked, "Have all of you had enough looking?" "We need to change back now." The two changed their clothes and skirts back. Qingwen said, "Making us take off and put on our clothes repeatedly—what was the point of it all?" |
| 13 | 眾人未及回答，丫頭來說：「二位郡主來了。」眾人忙迎出去，但見喜鸞梳著花藍頭髻，翠圍珠披，倩口香腮，嬌姿美目；穿件果綠紗襖，滿繡五色大團時花，夾著各色洋蝶，天青闊滾邊上蛹三色金銀線漢紋夾洋蓮，繫條桃紅素紗三藍扣線錦地加孔雀尾壓金錢皮錢花裙。艷容麗服，燦勝春花。又見黛玉雲鬢高挽，蟬鬢垂鬈，珠翠釵鈿，光搖奪目，眉蹙春山，目盈秋水，桃腮杏靨，櫻口瓠犀，玉臂雪膚，柳腰蓮步，艷麗羞花，嬌妍閉月；身穿粉紅素紗衫，上面繡著三綠三藍翠竹元紗闊鑲邊，堆著三套金銀線香草雲，下穿西湖水素羅百榴裙，襉內暗藏談五色間三藍的碎花，底下一道天青織金花邊。站住不動，瞧著是條素裙，一行動了，襉內的花才露出來。 Before anyone could answer, a maid came to announce, "The two princesses are coming." Everyone hurried to go out and welcome them. They saw Xiluan with a flower-blue bun, her head adorned with emerald ornaments and pearl veils, her rosy lips and fragrant cheeks giving off a delicate charm; she had a graceful figure and beautiful eyes. She wore an orange-green gauze jacket fully embroidered with large five-colored seasonal flowers and interspersed with various foreign butterflies. The sky-blue broad rolled trim featured three-color gold and silver thread Han-style patterns combined with foreign lotus motifs. Below, she was wearing a peach-red plain silk skirt in three colors, with brocade ground decorated by peacock tail feathers and golden coin-shaped floral patterns. Her beautiful face and splendid attire were more dazzling than spring flowers. They also saw Daiyu with her hair high in a cloud bun, cicada-like side curls hanging down, adorned with pearl and jade decorations that shimmered dazzlingly. Her eyebrows were like spring mountains, her eyes as deep as autumn waters; her peach-blossom cheeks bore plum-like dimples, her cherry lips revealed white teeth like gourds, her jade arms had snow-white skin, and her willow-like waist moved with lotus steps—her beauty was so radiant that flowers blushed in shame, and the moon hid its face. She wore a pink plain silk blouse embroidered on top with three shades of green and blue emerald bamboo patterns on broad-trimmed yuan silk edging, adorned with three sets of gold and silver thread fragrant grass clouds; below, she wore a West Lake water plain silk pleated skirt in hundreds of folds, the lining subtly hidden with small flowers in five soft colors interspersed with three blues. At the bottom was a sky-blue woven golden floral trim. Standing still, it looked like a plain skirt; only when she moved did the flowers hidden in the lining become visible. |
| 14 | 二人來到庭前，大家相見問好。湘雲、探春、鴛鴦等，人人交頭接耳，黛玉微微一笑，已猜著眾意。喜鸞笑道：「你們有話不明說，鬼鬼祟祟的做什麼呢？」湘雲走來，拉妙玉、黛玉、喜鸞、晴雯往炕上並坐。晴雯道：「這個我可不敢。」湘雲道：「你不敢，誰還敢？你說不敢，我偏要你敢。這是當敢而才敢，敢云『不敢』乎？」黛玉、喜鸞齊說：「你就暫坐一刻兒也使得；又不是合外客坐席，何妨的呢？」于是四人坐定。 The two arrived at the courtyard and everyone greeted each other politely. Xiangyun, Tanchun, Yuanyang and others all whispered to each other. Daiyu smiled slightly, already guessing the thoughts of everyone else. Xiluan laughed and said, "If you have something to say, just speak plainly. Why are you whispering like this?" Xiangyun walked over and pulled Miaoyu, Daiyu, Xiluan, and Qingwen to sit together on the kang. Qingwen said, "I don't dare do that." Xiangyun replied, "If you're afraid to, who else would dare?" "You say you don't dare, but I will make you dare." "This is a case where one dares only when compelled to. How can one call it 'not daring'?" Daiyu and Xiluan both said, "You can sit for a moment if you like; it's not as though we are sitting with outside guests. What harm could there be?" Thus the four of them sat down. |
| 15 | 湘雲等正要發話，寶釵、寶琴、岫煙、李紈、李紋、李綺、佩鳳、偕鸞、紫鵑、蕙香、鶯兒、麝月、秋紋、碧痕等都來了，大家相見問好不迭。李雙蘭又到了，重復敘禮。黛玉吩咐秀筠先拿蓮粉湯，等人齊了再拿點心。隨即有十二個俊俏丫頭捧上茶盤，裏面一色五彩鐘，盛著蓮粉杏酥湯，送到各人面前。 Just as Xiangyun was about to speak, Baochai, Baoqin, Xiuyan, Li Wan, Li Wen, Li Qi, Peifeng, Xieluan, Zijuan, Huixiang, Ying'er, Shaye, Qiwen, and Bihen arrived. Everyone greeted each other repeatedly with great enthusiasm. Li Shuanglan also arrived, and the greetings were repeated once more. Daiyu instructed Xiuyun to first bring lotus powder soup, and then serve snacks after everyone had arrived. Soon twelve pretty maidservants brought out tea trays, each with a set of colorful cups filled with lotus powder and apricot cake soup, which they served to everyone present. |
| 16 | 大家吃畢，湘雲復把妙、黛、喜、晴四人不由分說，拉到炕．上一排坐著。寶釵道：「你又鬧什麼故事？」湘雲道：「寶姊姊，你合大家瞧瞧：他們四位，我竟沒有得褒獎了，只把他三個比作月殿嫦娥，」獨指著黛玉道：「把他比作桃林大士，如何呢？」眾人齊說：「確切極了。」寶釵道：「只有個白衣大士，這桃林大士可系杜撰。」湘雲道：「只因他衫上繡的竹子，原像件大士衣，但是粉紅的，所以用『桃林』二字，聊取意而已。」寶琴道：「雖說杜撰，這四字的神理確不可移。」李紈道：「雲姑娘的文章傳神入妙。」探春道：「就叫緋衣大士也使得。」寶琴道：「這是直寫。他是物外渲染的筆法，最佳。」 After everyone had finished eating, Xiangyun once again pulled Miaoyu, Daiyu,Xiluan and Qingwen without hesitation to sit in a row on the kang. Baochai asked, "What kind of mischief are you up to now?" Xiangyun said, "Sister Bao, you and everyone else look: among these four, I can't find a single one to praise. I have only compared the other three to Chang'e of the Moon Palace," then she pointed at Daiyu and said, "But what if I compare her to Taolin Dashì? How does that sound?" Everyone agreed in unison, saying, "That's absolutely spot on." Baochai said, "There is only a White-robed Bodhisattva; this Peach Grove Bodhisattva must be made up." Xiangyun replied, "It's only because the bamboo embroidered on her blouse resembles a Bodhisattva's robe. But since it is pink, I used the term 'Peach Grove' just to capture the meaning." Baoqin said, "Although it may be a fabrication, these four characters truly convey an indescribable spirit and meaning." Li Wan said, "Miss Yun's writing is vivid and exquisite beyond words." Tanchun added, "Calling her the Crimson-robed Bodhisattva would also work." Baoqin said, "This is a direct description. But her style is more like an artistic rendering beyond the physical world; it's the best." |
| 17 | 恰值惜春來到，見過眾人，隨問道：「我方才進來，聽說什麼『物外渲染的筆法』，誰在這裏論畫嗎？」探春告以前事。惜春道：「究竟咱們幾府的人頭兒尖兒都在這裏。若論文才，已有大譜兒，惟有容貌未曾分個等第。」李紈道：「四姑娘，你就評論出來，試試你的眼法。」湘雲道：「四妹妹要仔細呀！有兩位法眼在這裡呢！」 Just then, Xichun arrived. After greeting everyone, she asked, "I just came in and heard something about 'artistic rendering beyond the material world.' Is someone here discussing painting?" Tanchun recounted what had happened before. Xichun said, "Indeed, the sharpest minds from all our households are gathered here. If it comes to literary talent, we already have a ranking; but as for beauty, no one has yet ranked the order." Li Wan said, "Fourth Miss, you just give your evaluation and test your eye for beauty." Xiangyun said, "Little sister Si, be careful now! There are two people with discerning eyes here!" |
| 18 | 惜春道：「我評定了，分出等第來，寫在瓊華榜上，永為定評。」李紈道：「正該這麼著。」湘雲道：「瓊華榜可有出典？」惜春道：「你問柳二嫂子。」一面叫丫頭取了一幅艷霞箋，鋪了筆現說道：「我點的一甲一名，大慨于今普天之下沒有高自他的。」湘雲道：「你說呀！擱在你肚子里誰知道呢？」惜春道：「這是萬人一見，大眾自然定是這麼著，還要說嗎？」湘雲道：「定要說明了才算。」惜春道：「把大士服作件狀元袍就是了。」大家聽說，齊道：「這是一定的。」寶釵道：「一甲二名是誰？」忽聽外面應道：「是吳雲驟。」眾人哄堂大笑。原來是寶玉進來，見過眾人。 Xichun said, "I will evaluate them and rank their beauty, then write the results on a Qionghua Honor Roll to serve as an eternal judgment." Li Wan said, "That's exactly what should be done." Xiangyun asked, "Is there a classical reference for the Qionghua Honor Roll?" Xichun replied, "Ask Liu Er Pozi." While saying this, she called a maid to fetch a sheet of brilliant cloud paper and laid out the brush before continuing, "The first place in my ranking is probably unmatched by anyone under heaven today." Xiangyun said, "Then tell us who it is!" Who would know if you keep it hidden in your stomach?" Xichun said, "This is a once-in-a-lifetime beauty; naturally everyone will agree. Is there any need to say more?" Xiangyun insisted, "It must be clearly stated to count." Xichun said, "Just consider the Bodhisattva robe as a top scholar's official robe." Everyone hearing this all agreed, saying, "That is certainly right." Baochai asked, "Who is the second place in the first class?" Suddenly a voice from outside answered, "It's Wu Yunzhou." Everyone burst into laughter. It turned out that Baoyu had just come in and greeted everyone. |
| 19 | 丫頭擺上點心，大家吃畢，湘雲道：：二哥哥，你別則聲，聽四妹妹點甲。」寶玉問點什麼甲，探春將上項事說明。寶玉大喜，見黛玉為大眾賞識，心中更樂。湘雲道：「二名是誰？明說了罷！」俗春道：「偏要說個啞謎兒：二名是雪人的前身，原是一身兩人，今作兩人一身，此卿可配點榜眼。」喜鸞、香菱齊道：「你這玉尺量才，毫厘不錯。」大家又細細的打略了晴雯一番，又看看喜鸞、妙玉，人人點頭佩服。 The maids brought out snacks, and after everyone had finished eating, Xiangyan said to Baoyu, "Elder Brother Er, don't say a word. Listen to Fourth Sister's ranking." Baoyu asked what kind of ranking was being discussed, and Tanchun explained the previous events. Baoyu was greatly pleased; seeing Daiyu recognized by everyone, he felt even happier in his heart. Xiangyun asked, "Who is the second?" "Just say it plainly!" Xichun said with a playful tone, "I prefer to give you a riddle: the second place is the former self of Xue Ren. Originally one person in two forms, now it's two persons as one body—this lady can be matched for the runner-up position on the honor roll." Xiluan and Xiangling both said in unison, "Your jade ruler for measuring talent is spot on, not a hair's breadth off." Everyone then carefully examined Qingwen once more and also looked at Xiluan and Miaoyu. Everyone nodded in admiration. |
| 20 | 李紈道：「探花是誰？」惜春道：「大嫂子問，我就直說了。這要點雙的，柳二嫂子合喜妹妹。」寶玉將手一拍道：「是極！是極！」湘雲道：「怎麼三鼎甲鬧出四個人來？」惜春道：「上年二哥哥們點兩個狀元。咱們取兩個探花，使不得嗎？」眾人說：「這議論公平。」惜春又道：「還有兩位去世的，若在時，同點探花。」寶琴問是誰，惜春道：「尤二姨、蓉哥兒媳婦。他們這四位，可是兩句俗語：四個八兩共二斤，兩個二斤分四半。」湘雲向香菱、平兒、鴛鴦、玉釧、襲人道：「你們已前的評論都偏了，這才公平定準呢！」 Li Wan asked, "Who is the third place?" Xichun said, "Since Elder Sister-in-law is asking, I'll just say it plainly. This one needs to be awarded jointly—to Liu Er Pozi and Younger Sister Xiluan." Baoyu clapped his hands and said, "That's absolutely right! "That's exactly it!" Xiangyun asked, "How come there are four people in the top three rankings?" Xichun replied, "Last year, Elder Brothers Er pointed out two zhuangyuan (top scholars). Why shouldn't we take two tanshua (third place) this time?" Everyone said, "This discussion is fair." Xichun added, "There are also two who have passed away. If they were still alive, they would be jointly awarded the tanshua position." Baoqin asked who they were. Xichun replied, "Second Aunt You and Rongge'er's wife." "These four of them can be summed up in two common sayings: 'Four eight-liang make two jin, and two jin split into four halves.'" Xiangyun said to Xiangling, Ping'er, Yuanyang, Yuchuan, and Xiren, "All your previous evaluations were biased. This is the fair and accurate judgment!" |
| 21 | 惜春道：「一甲已定，再點二甲。」湘雲問：「誰是傳臚？」惜春道：「已取定了，又是雙的。」湘雲道：「不必雙的、單的，就寫區區二字。」惜春道：「輪到你還早。」湘雲道；「你會意錯了，『區區』不是我，是你呀！你現在填榜唱名，自己忍作傳臚，榜上填寫二甲一名，『區區』豈不恰當？」眾人聽說大笑。寶玉道：「別說笑了，真正填名，二甲一名是誰？」惜春道：「請你合梅大爺做兩位傳臚夫人。這二甲第一兩名點的是寶大爺、寶二爺賢崑仲。」 Xichun said, "The first class has been decided; now let's select the second class." Xiangyun asked, "Who is the chuanlu?" Xichun said, "They have already been selected, and it's another pair." Xiangyun said, "Whether they are paired or single, just write the word 'ququ' (a humble term)." Xichun replied, "It's still too early for it to be your turn." Xiangyun said, "You misunderstood. 'Ququ' doesn't refer to me—it refers to you!" "You are now compiling the list and announcing names. If you yourself are willing to be the chuanlu, and if on the list you write 'first in the second class,' wouldn't 'ququ' be perfectly appropriate?" Hearing this, everyone burst into laughter. Baoyu said, "Don't joke around—when it really comes to listing names, who is first in the second class?" Xichun replied, "Please appoint you and Uncle Mei as two chuanlu ladies." "These two first places in the second class are awarded to Master Bao and Second Master Bao, who are virtuous brothers." |
| 22 | 黛玉推著寶釵、寶琴笑道：「二兄新做貴人，快拿喜酒來喝。」寶琴道：「先要領了你的狀元紅，賞過榜眼宴，喝著探花盃，再飲咱們的傳臚酒。」黛玉道：「畢竟姊姊大方，妹妹小氣，先喝了你的，咱們的還賴得掉嗎？」探春道：「大家聽聽，殿撰公親口說的，這喜酒又有得鬧了。」李紈道：「我有個公論：大家彼此公賀兩天，人人都要派分；三鼎甲合傳臚分四回請人；各太史或數人一回，又分作四天。攏共攏兒有十回酒席，盡夠鬧了。」 Daiyu pushed Baocai and Baoqin aside while laughing and said, "My two elder brothers have just become honored officials. Hurry up and bring the celebratory wine to drink!" Baoqin said, "First you must receive your zhuangyuan red (a ceremonial honor), attend the bangyan banquet, drink from the tanshua cup, and then finally partake in our chuanlu wine." Daiyu said, "After all, you are the elder sister and generous, while I am a younger sister and stingy. Once you've drunk yours, how can we possibly avoid drinking ours?" Tanchun said, "Everyone listen—this is what the Dean Zhuan Gong himself said. There's going to be more fun with this celebratory wine." Li Wan said, "I have a fair proposal: everyone should celebrate each other for two days, and everyone must be invited in turn; the three top scholars combined with the chuanlu will invite people four times in total; each tai shi (a scholar-official) or several of them together will form one round, which will also be divided into four days." "In total, there will be ten banquets altogether. That's more than enough for celebration!" |
| 23 | 寶玉道：「大嫂子議的極公，就是這樣很好。我怎樣呢？」湘雲道：「人也不應賀你，你也不應請人。橫豎這個重身的狀元郎要躺著養相度，你算個狀元的聽差，請請客，陪陪人罷了。」探春道：「你的調侃，大有聊齋手筆。」寶玉道：「這賀局從明兒起就連下去。」探春道：「接著鬧也沒趣，每月只可兩三回，分開來才好。現在每月例請、曲局、生日局鬧不清白，詩社一事，竟作撂開了。這賀局不能連著盡管鬧。」寶玉道：「明兒必要先辦一趟。」探春道：「你別忙。二甲、三甲都沒點完，到底待四妹妹點定了再說。」喜鸞道：「二哥哥如今不叫『無事忙』，叫『樂得忙』了。」 Baoyu said, "Elder Sister-in-law's proposal is very fair. This arrangement is excellent." "What about me?" Xiangyun said, "No one should celebrate with you, and you shouldn't invite anyone either. "After all, this pregnant 状元 (top scholar) should be lying down to rest and prepare for the birth. You're just an attendant of the 状元, so you can only invite guests and accompany people." Tanchun said, "Your teasing is very much in the style of Liaozhai Zhiyi (Strange Tales from a Chinese Studio)." Baoyu said, "This celebration will continue starting tomorrow." Tanchun said, "Continuing the revelry without a break would be boring. There should only be two or three rounds each month, and they should be spaced out for it to work well." At present, the regular monthly gatherings, music performances, and birthday parties are already too frequent and confusing; as for the poetry society, it has practically been put on hold. "These celebratory gatherings can't go on nonstop." Baoyu said, "Tomorrow I must definitely attend the first round." Tanchun said, "Don't rush." "The second and third classes haven't been fully assigned yet. We should wait until Fourth Sister has finalized everything before deciding anything." Xiluan said, "Second Brother is no longer called 'Wushi Mang' (Busy with Nothing), but now he's called 'Lode Mang' (Happy to Be Busy)." |
| 24 | 惜春笑道：「確切！再不必打岔，我要唱名了。」妙玉道：「我的姊姊、尤家二姨的妹妹可算得二名？」惜春道：「我正待下筆，被你先說出來了。三名邢大姊姊，四名紋姊姊，五名綺姊姊，六名現在的璉二嫂子，七名香菱姊姊，八名鳳姊姊，九名叫『愛哥哥』的姊姊。」湘雲道：「但願你將來抱個孩子，趕著叫『愛舅舅』，那才有趣呢！」喜鸞道：「只怕再過幾個月，就有叫『愛舅舅』的了。」眾人聽說大笑。惜春又道：「十名襲姨娘，十一名雙蘭姊姊。三甲第一名三姊姊，二名區區，三名二姊姊，四名佩姨娘，五名偕姨娘，六名紫姨娘，七名鴛姨娘，八名金釧姨娘，九名玉釧姨娘，十名麝姨娘，十一名秋姨娘，十二名鶯姨娘，十三名大嫂子，十四名巧姐，十五名蕙姨娘，十六名碧姨娘，十七名小紅，十八名春燕。」 Xichun laughed and said, "Exactly right!" "No more interruptions. I'm about to announce the names now." Miaoyu asked, "Can my elder sister and Younger Aunt You's younger sister be considered as the second names?" Xichun said, "I was just about to write it down when you spoke first." "Third place is Elder Sister Xing, fourth place is Wen Jiejie, fifth place is Qi Jiejie, sixth place is current Er Pozi Lian, seventh place is Xiangling Jiejie, eighth place is Feng Jiejie, and ninth place is the sister called 'Aigeguo'." Xiangyun said, "I hope that in the future you will have a child who can run up and call you 'Aijiu' (Uncle Ai), which would be even more interesting!" Xiluan said, "I'm afraid that in a few more months, there might already be someone calling 'Aijiu.'" Hearing this, everyone laughed heartily. Xichun continued, "Tenth place is Madam Xi, and eleventh place is Shuanglan Jiejie." "First place in the third class is Third Jiejie, second place is Ququ, third place is Second Jiejie, fourth place is Pei Madam, fifth place is Xie Madam, sixth place is Zi Madam, seventh place is Yuanyang Madam, eighth place is Jinchuan Madam, ninth place is Yuchuan Madam, tenth place is She Madam, eleventh place is Qiu Madam, twelfth place is Ying Madam, thirteenth place is Elder Sister-in-law, fourteenth place is Xiao Jia, fifteenth place is Hui Madam, sixteenth place is Bi Madam, seventeenth place is Xiaohong, eighteenth place is Chunyan." |
| 25 | 湘雲道：「丫頭很多，怎麼只取小紅、春燕。」惜春道：「我也知道，比他兩個俊的還有。但是小紅嫁了蕓哥兒作正室，春燕把了芹哥兒作妾，他二人身分不同，所以列在咱們單上。還有俊的、俏的、有才的很多，過一天閑著，再替他們另分個等第單子。如仍呢？」寶玉道：「這倒難呢！還有許多丫頭，你認不清。」惜春道：「你又呆了，我把他們都叫來瞧瞧，揀俊俏的開上單子，分出等第。那不成形的，猶如傻大姐那般尊容也上單子嗎？」 Xiangyun asked, "There are many maids. Why were only Xiaohong and Chunyan selected?" Xichun replied, "I know that there are also others who are more beautiful than these two." "But Xiaohong married Yunge'er as his official wife, and Chunyan became Qin'ge'er's concubine. Since their social statuses are different, they were included on our list." "There are also many others who are beautiful, charming, and talented. If we have a free day later, we can create another list to rank them separately." "What about Ru Reng?" Baoyu said, "That's actually difficult!" "There are still many maids; you can't recognize them all." Xichun said, "You're being silly again. I'll have them all come over so we can look at them and select the pretty and charming ones to list, then rank them accordingly." "Will those who are plain-looking, like Madam Shagongzhu with her unattractive appearance, also be included on the list?" |
| 26 | 眾人哄然一笑，將榜再四推敲，正是直書，毫無偏袒。湘雲道：「三甲二名，你居然自寫區區，倒也直捷。」惜春道：「臨文不諱。」李紈道：「四姑娘若做了太史，道地一支董狐之筆。」 Everyone burst into laughter. They thoroughly reviewed and discussed the rankings again, which were indeed written straightforwardly with no favoritism at all. Xiangyun said, "Second place in the third class—you actually wrote 'ququ' for yourself. That's surprisingly direct." Xichun replied, "I don't avoid mentioning it when writing about it." Li Wan said, "If Fourth Miss were to become a tai shi (scholar-official), she would truly be an authentic historian like Dongfu." |
| 27 | 黛玉道：「時候不早，咱們商議餞花正文。」寶玉道：「已備了幾號燈船，夜裡葬花。」黛玉道：「另創一格，倒也別致。」晴雯道：「今兒葬花，奶奶起動不便，我代奶奶的勞。」黛玉道：「很好。」晴雯道：「葬花還是日里掩埋好了，晚上用結彩燈船，艙裏供一個『百花仙之位』的牌，送花神歸塚。大眾坐船隨後，送到花塚，供上牌位，陳設名香、佳若、珍果、芳醪，大家酹茶奠酒，虔祭一番，常得花神默佑也未可知。」黛玉道：「你的心意合我一樣。」大家齊說：「年年餞花葬花，未曾祭過。今兒如此虔誠，方不負大家敬愛護惜之意。」 Daiyu said, "It's getting late. Let us now discuss the main arrangements for our farewell to the flowers." Baoyu said, "Several decorated boats have already been prepared; we will bury the flowers at night." Daiyu said, "Creating a new style is quite unique." Qingwen said, "Since burying flowers today would be inconvenient for Madam to move around, I will do it on her behalf." Daiyu replied, "That's very kind of you." Qingwen said, "It's better to bury the flowers during the day. At night, we can use a decorated boat with colorful lanterns and place a plaque reading 'The Seat of the Flower Immortal' in the cabin to honor the flower deity as she returns to her resting place." Everyone followed in the boats, accompanying it to the flower grave. They placed the plaque there and arranged fragrant incense, fine flowers, rare fruits, and aromatic wine. Everyone poured tea and offered wine as a solemn sacrifice, praying earnestly; perhaps they might even receive silent blessings from the Flower Immortal. Daiyu said, "Your intention is exactly the same as mine." Everyone together said, "Every year we have sent off and buried flowers, but we've never held a ritual to honor them before. Today's sincere ceremony is the only way to truly live up to everyone's respect and affection for the flowers." |
| 28 | 晴雯道：「還有一事：我那替身墳墓築成之後，未曾祭奠。今兒備了瓣香清若，趁此自祭一回，以舒積念。」說罷涕泗交流。眾人勸道：「不必悲傷了，咱們同去葬花。」 Qingwen said, "There is one more thing: after my substitute grave was built, no sacrifice has ever been made there. Today I have prepared some incense and fresh flowers; let me take this opportunity to offer a personal sacrifice, so as to relieve my accumulated feelings." After saying this, she wept bitterly. The others comforted her, saying, "Don't be so sad anymore; let's all go together to bury the flowers." |
| 29 | 晴雯換了一件楊妃色素紗短襖，翠雲綢鑲邊；上面堆片的百花，一條蛋青素紗裙，繡著茸茸綠草，上面攢三聚五、拆一聯雙的彩蝶，繫著翠藍桅子同心結，杏黃排穗絲絛，頭戴累金絲嵌寶石珠絡，翠沿遮經，荷著朱紅描金柄花鋤，提著鶯兒製的五色絲夾金銀線編成的巧式花囊，一人在前，款款而行。後面群釵也提著花囊，灑時花的、繡蝶的、皮錢的、萬字的、雲蛹的、蟠螭的、漢紋的、宋錦的、香草雲的、三台蘭的、散技菊的、鴛鴦堆線的、冰梅的、墨竹的、朱竹的、寒鵲爭梅的、連環套錦的、草蟲的、金魚的、山水人物的、異樣兜羅的、各色衲錦的、戳紗的、結絡的、打子的、盤線的、掐線的、堆片的，各色各樣，光怪陸離。一同來到塚前，啟開土來，各人將囊內花片一一傾在坑裏，重復掩埋好了。 Qingwen changed into a short-sleeved, pale-colored silk jacket in Yangfei hue with emerald cloud brocade trimming; embroidered on it were clusters of various flowers. She wore a plain egg-blue silk skirt, embroidered with soft green grass and dotted with butterflies that clustered three or five together or paired up by splitting one apart—each butterfly was tied with a jade-blue gardenia-shaped 同心结 (symbolizing unity), along with apricot-yellow tassels made of silk threads. On her head she wore a gold-threaded hair ornament inlaid with gemstones, and an emerald-edged veil that covered the scripture. In one hand, she carried a red gilded flower hoe, and in the other, a dainty floral pouch made by Ying'er from five-colored silk thread interwoven with gold and silver threads. Walking gracefully ahead of everyone else, she moved forward with measured steps. Behind her, the group of women also carried floral pouches in various styles—some embroidered with scattered flowers, others with butterflies, leather coins (symbolic money), the character "wan" (萬) repeated in patterns, cloud pupae, coiled dragons, Han dynasty motifs, Song brocade, fragrant grass and clouds, three-tiered orchids, scattered chrysanthemums, yuanyang (mandarin ducks) with embroidered lines, ice plum blossoms, ink bamboo, red bamboo, winter magpies competing for plum branches, interlocking rings of brocade, insects among grasses, goldfish, landscapes with figures, exotic dourou patterns, patchwork brocades in various colors, pierced silk, tassels, seed embroidery, coiled threads, cut threads, and layered floral clusters. Each pouch was a different style and color, dazzlingly colorful and strange to behold. Together they arrived at the grave site, dug up the soil, and each person poured out the flower petals from their pouches one by one into the pit before carefully refilling it. |
| 30 | 晴雯來到雪人墓前，將墳邊小草芟除了些。眾人跟來，只見墳頂一抹翠森森細草，如覆釜一般，細軟柔潤，芳香似蘭。寶琴道：「漢時青塚獨傳，今有香塚為偶了。」大家嘆賞一回，散逛各處消遣，唱曲、下棋、接麻、射詩眼、打雙陸、鬥百草，各適其適。惟晴雯一人在墳前哭得悲淒欲絕，驚動遊神。哭罷回去躺著，直至傍晚，來至沁芳亭。 Qingwen came to the snowman's tomb and trimmed away some of the small grasses around the grave. The others followed and saw that on top of the grave was a patch of emerald-green, fine grass, like an overturned cauldron. The grass was soft, smooth, and fragrant, its scent reminiscent of orchids. Baoqin said, "In the Han dynasty, there was only the Green Tomb (Qingzhu) as a legend; now we have this Fragrant Tomb to match it." Everyone admired and marveled for a while, then dispersed to enjoy themselves in various ways—singing songs, playing chess, playing mahjong, composing poetry by guessing poetic clues, playing double sixes (a board game), and fighting with hundred herbs. Each person engaged in whatever suited their fancy. Only Qingwen remained alone at the grave, weeping so bitterly and sorrowfully that it moved even the wandering spirits. After crying, she returned home and lay down, remaining there until dusk before coming to Jin Fang Pavilion. |
| 31 | 黛玉一人坐在那裡念詩，見晴雯來了，便道：「你葬花乏了。咱們唱曲所以不來找你。」晴雯道：「倒不很乏，只是心裏懶懶的。大家唱的什麼曲子？」黛玉道：「選了十二套首曲，十二位唱《數花》、《數蝶》、《遊園》、《驚夢》、《尋夢》、《魂游》、《秘議》、《拾釵》、《題曲》、《女彈》、《長城》、《借扇》。因為你的《尋夢》已唱好了，想你唱這一套。偏你又回去了，我只得代了你唱。」晴雯道：「奶奶代我唱了這一大套，又要唱自己的，豈不乏了？」黛玉道：「派著我的題曲，另叫秀筠代唱。倒難為他，細腔韻度通有了，板眼也很準。今兒最得趣是鶯姑娘，《長城》、《借扇》最考弦索的，他彈得很好，浪頭、催頭、滾頭，進點兒、小點兒，精純極了。紫妹的鼓板已合弦子，攪融了笛的指法，音韻也更長了。喜姑娘唱的《只道是淡黃昏，月影斜》無出其右。咱們二奶奶的《游園》已代他磨純了，他那柔脆嗓子，真個鶯語如簧。三姑娘的《女彈》，雲姑娘的《數花》，邢姑娘的《秘議》，香菱姑娘的《長城》都唱淳化了。柳二奶奶還唱了一套《只見漢嶺雲格霧蔽》，聽得人淌淚。 Daiyu was sitting alone reciting poetry when she saw Qingwen arrive and said, "You must be tired from burying the flowers." "That's why we didn't come to find you for our singing session." Qingwen replied, "I'm not really very tired; it's just that I feel a bit lazy in my heart." "What songs were you all singing?" Daiyu said, "We selected twelve sets of songs. Twelve people performed 'Shuhua' (Counting Flowers), 'Shudie' (Counting Butterflies), 'Youyuan' (Wandering in the Garden), 'Jingmeng' (Startled Dream), 'Xunmeng' (Seeking the Dream), 'Hunyou' (Soul's Journey), 'Miyi' (Secret Discussion), 'Shizhai' (Picking Up a Hairpin), 'Tiqu' (Title of a Poem), 'Nutan' (A Woman Playing Zither), 'Changcheng' (Great Wall), and 'Jieshan' (Borrowing an Umbrella)." "Since you have already performed 'Xunmeng,' we wanted to invite you to perform this set." "But since you went back, I had no choice but to sing for you instead." Qingwen said, "Madam sang this entire set on my behalf and then had to sing your own songs as well. How could you not be exhausted?" Daiyu said, "Since I was assigned the 'Tiqu,' someone else—Xiu Jun—was asked to sing it for me. "It's quite a challenge for him, but he managed the subtle melodies and tones well, with precise timing." ล The most enjoyable today was Ying Nü, who performed "Changcheng" and "Jieshan," which are the most demanding for string instruments. She played them very well; her playing of the lantou (surge), cuichou (acceleration), guntou (rolling), jindian (advanced beat), and xiaodian (minor beat) was extremely refined and pure. Zimei's drum and clappers were already in harmony with the xianzi (a two-stringed instrument), blending seamlessly with the flute techniques, making the musical tones even more lingering. Xi Gege's performance of "Zhidao Shi Dan Huanghun, Yueying Xie" (Thinking It Is a Pale Twilight, the Moon's Shadow Slants) was unparalleled. "Our Second Madam has already polished his 'Youyuan' to perfection. His soft and crisp voice is truly like a nightingale's, sweet as a zither." Third Miss's 'Nutan,' Yun Gege's 'Shuhua,' Xing Gege's 'Miyi,' and Xiangling Gege's 'Changcheng' were all performed with great refinement. Liu Er Nai Nai also performed a set of "Zhi Jian Hanling Yunge Wubi," which moved the listeners to tears. |
| 32 | 正說得高興，秀筠、輕雲走來道：「大家都在榆蔭堂等侯。」又見兩個丫頭捧著衣包鏡奩來，站在晴雯旁邊。輕雲道：「衣裳拿來了，就在這裡穿罷！」晴雯更換衣服、釵環，談妝縞素，穿件月白密羅衫，繡著談色芙蓉，白素紗裙，畫著綠水波紋，前後裙門浮幾片芙蓉花辯，髻上斜插一支白玉簪，正面一朵花鈿，嵌著朱紅寶石。黛玉留心看其妝飾，只是點頭，不覺微微笑道：「妹妹這樣妝扮，儼然芙蓉仙下界，我竟愛殺你了。」晴雯道：「奶奶這樣衣妝，難道不是湘妃臨凡嗎？我對著奶奶，連餓都不知道了。」黛玉道：「咱們走罷！」恰好寶玉迎來，望著晴雯出神。黛玉問道：「可是來催咱們？」寶玉點點頭。三人走至半路，丫頭傳言：「老爺候著二爺說話。」寶玉只得快快而去。 Just as they were speaking happily, Xiu Jun and Qingyun came over and said, "Everyone is waiting for you at Yuyin Hall." They also saw two maidservants carrying a bundle of clothes and a mirror case, standing by Qingwen's side. Qingyun said, "The clothes have been brought here; you might as well change right now!" Qingwen changed into new clothes and jewelry, applying light makeup in a simple style. She wore a pale moon-white silk robe with embroidered light-colored lotuses, paired with a white gauze skirt patterned with green rippling water waves. A few floating petals of lotus flowers adorned the front and back panels of her skirt. In her hairpin was slanted a single piece of white jade hairpin, with a floral ornament in front, set with a ruby-red gemstone. Daiyu carefully observed her attire and merely nodded, then couldn't help but smile slightly and said, "With such a style, my sister looks like a lotus fairy descending from heaven. I am truly captivated by you." Qingwen said, "Madam, with such elegant attire and makeup, are you not the Xiangfei (the weeping lady of Xiang) descending to the mortal world?" "In your presence, I don't even feel hungry anymore." Daiyu said, "Let's go then!" Just at that moment, Bao Yu came over to greet them and gazed at Qingwen in admiration. Daiyu asked, "Have you come to urge us along?" Bao Yu nodded. The three of them had barely walked halfway when a maid servant came to deliver the message: "Master is waiting for Second Master to speak with him." Bao Yu had no choice but to leave quickly. |
| 33 | 一時眾美齊集，同黛玉、晴雯上了燈船，一班會吹打的丫頭在花神牌位前奏樂，悠悠揚揚，水流音韻，眾人的船隨後。到了岸邊，另有女樂引路。四十對繡衣丫鬟，提著鬚絡彩畫琉璃花籃燈在前，黛玉棒著赤玉爐，內炷海南香，晴雯捧花神牌位。後首，每人面前四對花籃燈，眾姊妹挨次隨行。到了花塚，上面已搭就一座細巧燈棚，通身滿彩，懸著綢［料］明角扎的各樣亮花，四角四個大彩蝶，陳設器皿、古磁、玉玩，極其精致。湘雲道：「待二哥哥來，合林姊姊先拜了，咱們再拜。」黛玉道：「他才去，不知多早晚回來，咱們先拜。」於是群釵虔誠祭畢。黛玉吩咐丫頭：「回來二爺拜後，請他招牌位、紙箔一同焚送，奠酒酹茶就是了。」 In no time, all the beauties gathered and boarded a lantern-lit boat with Daiyu and Qingwen. A group of maids who knew how to play musical instruments performed before the shrine of the Flower God, their music flowing gently along with the water's rhythm, while everyone else followed in their boats. When they reached the shore, there were other female musicians to guide the way. Forty pairs of embroidered-cloth-clad maids carried colorful, painted glass flower basket lanterns with tassels in front. Daiyu held a red jade incense burner filled with Hainan incense, while Qingwen carried the shrine tablet of the Flower God. Behind them, each person was followed by four pairs of flower basket lanterns, and all the sisters walked in order one after another. When they arrived at the flower grave, a delicate lantern pavilion had already been set up on top. The entire structure was adorned with vibrant colors and hung with various bright flowers made of silk and horn thread. At each corner were four large colorful butterflies. Vases, ancient porcelain wares, and jade ornaments were arranged in an extremely refined manner. Xiangyun said, "Let us wait for Second Brother to come first; he and Lin Sister should bow first before we do." Daiyu said, "He just left. We don't know when he will return. Let us bow first." With that, the group of women solemnly completed their offerings with sincere devotion. Daiyu instructed the maidservant, "After Second Master returns and bows, please have him bring the shrine tablet and paper offerings to burn together. Just offer wine and tea as a libation." |
| 34 | 只見雙蘭嘆口氣道：「人生在世，必須廣見多聞。姊姊們就這個玩意兒的事，都要準情酌理，做妹子的拳拳服膺，從此又增一番學問了。」探春道：「你還不知，咱們二哥、林姊姊從前培這花塚葬花，也不知哭了許多眼淚。」雙蘭道：「我有個表姊能詩，最愛他一句詩道：『怕看花飛不卷簾』。古今情女、才人命薄者，多感嘆飛花，適以自喻。那命短的猶如花之朝開暮落；命薄的如開不逢時，摧殘風雨；那福厚的亦不過榮華滿枝，開得悠久，終有枯落之日。現在咱們這干人正當秀發榮茂之時，數十年後不知怎麼樣了。我勸大眾姊姊們及時取樂，後首光陰不必思慮了。」一席話，說得眾人心驚意暢。黛玉、寶釵道：「姊姊洞徹人情物理，強於咱們多矣。」此地三兩談心，暫且按下。 Just then, Shuanglan sighed and said, "In this life, one must see widely and hear much. "For such a matter as this, sisters must act with due consideration of the facts and reason. As a younger sister, I am sincerely convinced by your words; from now on, I have gained yet another lesson in knowledge." Tancun said, "You don't know yet. Our Second Brother and Lin Sister used to cultivate this flower grave for burying flowers; they must have shed countless tears." Shuanglan said, "I once had a cousin who was good at poetry. She loved one of her own lines most: 'Afraid to see petals fly, I dare not roll up the curtain.'" Throughout history, many sentimental women and talented people with frail fates have expressed their feelings through the falling petals of flowers, using it as a metaphor for themselves. Those with short lives are like flowers that bloom in the morning and fall by night; those with frail fates, like blossoms that open at an ill-timed moment, crushed by wind and rain. Even those blessed with longevity can only enjoy their glory for a time—flowers may flourish on every branch, but they too will eventually wither and fall. Now, we here are just at the peak of our youth and flourishing lives; who knows what will become of us in several decades? "I advise all my elder sisters to enjoy the pleasures while we can; there is no need to worry about what will happen in later years." Her words stirred both alarm and deep reflection among everyone present. Daiyu and Baocai said, "Sister understands human feelings and the principles of life so profoundly; you are far superior to us." Their conversation here, among a few close friends, will be set aside for now. |
| 35 | 單表晴雯一人先到芙蓉墓前陳設端正玉丹金卮、香若旨醴，四圍樹上扦著無數芙蓉花燈，盡是紗羅明角扎的，地下鋪著談色絨毯。晴雯將頭上紅寶石花鈿除下，伏身下拜，叫了兩聲：「依卿，你命好薄呀！『淚如泉湧，哭得宿鳥驚飛，花神濺淚。丫頭觸目傷心，也嚎響起來。輕雲、艷雪含著淚，將晴雯扶起，焚花紙錢，酹過茶酒。釵、黛二人遠聞哭聲，連忙趕到，正要下拜，晴雯急止住道：「正月新築此墳，大眾來拜，已經不當。今兒乃我私祭之情，非我自亡之日。一鬧起來，大家又鬧不成事體了。」接著群釵都來勸慰，打點要拜，黛玉力代辭卻。 Let us now focus on Qingwen, who first arrived at the lotus tomb. She arranged jade-red pills and golden cups of wine in neat order before it, along with fragrant offerings as sweet as nectar. Countless lotus-shaped lanterns were hung among the trees around; all made from silk, gauze, and horn thread. The ground beneath was covered with a pale-colored velvet carpet. Qingwen removed the ruby-red floral ornament from her head, knelt down with a bow, and called out twice: "Yiqing, your fate is truly frail!" "Tears gushed like spring water, crying so bitterly that the night birds were startled into flight and even the Flower God wept." The maidservant was moved by what she saw and began to wail loudly. Qingyun and Yanxue, tears in their eyes, helped Qingwen to her feet, burned the paper offerings for flowers, and poured tea and wine as a libation. Baocai and Daiyu heard the weeping from afar and hurried over. Just as they were about to kneel, Qingwen quickly stopped them, saying, "This tomb was newly built in the first lunar month; it is already inappropriate for everyone to come here to pay respects." "Today's mourning is a private offering of my own feelings, not the day I myself have perished." "If we make too much noise, it will only cause more trouble and prevent us from doing anything properly." Then the other women all came to comfort her and insisted on paying their respects, but Daiyu strongly refused on behalf of everyone. |
| 36 | 湘雲道：「一個雪人，何必如此傷感？你竟有些呆。」晴雯道：「這塚內有我指甲二枚，頭發一綹。甲乃骨之餘，髮乃血之餘。又有婉妹指血點精。雖曰雪人，尚有骨血生氣，焉能不感？這還在其次。我最悲者，世人以身祭人之魂，今我以魂祭己之幻身。借人實在之身，祭自己身外之身。這般顛倒命運，如何不傷？再又替婉妹悲者：自己之身未曾祭己之魂，先祭我身外之身，並祭己自身之血，也是顛顛倒倒。算來命薄，莫如我晴、婉二人之極也。」探春、寶釵道：「你不必傷了，好在你兩人仍然在世，非亡故的可比。」晴雯又哭道：「可憐我兩人一身兩用。每逢更換之期，不過在幻境相敘兩天，即要分散，永不能兩人在陽世相敘。名雖有時來時去之便，實卻是半生半死之人。」大眾聽說，人人墮淚，惟黛玉更甚。寶釵道：「固雖如此，畢竟強似那磕然長逝的。」晴雯止住哭，簪上朱紅寶石花鈿，叮囑了輕雲幾句，同眾人坐船回來，各自散歸。 Xiangyun said, "It's just a snow person; why be so sad?" "You're being a bit silly." Qingwen said, "Inside this grave are two of my fingernails and a lock of my hair." Nails are the remnants of bones, and hair is the remnant of blood. There was also Wanmei who used her fingertip's blood to mark a spirit. Though it is but a snow figure, there is still the vitality of bone and blood within; how could one not feel moved? But that's secondary. What truly saddens me most is that in this world, people offer their bodies to honor the souls of others; today, I am offering my soul to mourn a phantom self. Using someone else's real body as a vessel, I pay homage to that part of myself which exists beyond the physical form. How could such an inverted fate not cause sorrow? Even more heartbreaking for Wanmei: she has not yet offered her own body to honor her own soul, but first offers it to my external self and even to the blood of her own body—this is also a topsy-turvy fate. All things considered, frail fates are nowhere as extreme as those of me, Qingwen and Wanmei." Tancun and Baocai said, "You need not grieve so much. Fortunately, you two are still alive; your situation is nothing like that of the deceased." Qingwen wept again and said, "Alas, my body must serve two purposes at once. Every time we meet during the change of seasons, it is only for two days in an illusory world before parting again. We can never be together in this mortal world forever." "Our names may come and go at times, but in reality, we are people who live half a life and die half a death." Everyone present heard this and shed tears; Daiyu was especially moved. Baocai said, "Though it is indeed tragic, at least you are still better off than those who have passed away forever." Qingwen stopped crying, fastened the ruby-red gemstone floral ornament back into her hair, gave Qingyun a few parting words, and then returned with everyone else by boat. They all dispersed to their respective homes. |
| 37 | 寶玉回到園中，大家已散，忙到花塚焚香展拜，燒紙酹茶，親自捧牌焚送。又到雪人墳上虔誠拜了，細問輕雲晴雯祭墓光景。輕雲只是含糊，寶玉生疑，細細追問。輕雲被寶玉嚴詰，正在無法，忽聽空中有人叫聲：「二爺，我在這裏。」嚇得人人毛髮倒豎，抱著打戰。寶玉聽出係婉香的魂說話，又驚又喜，忙問：「你怎麼來的？」婉香的魂道：「今兒姊姊在墳前哭得悽慘。又說了些話，惻人肺肝。日遊神聽了，因姊姊係幻境仙子，飛風報與仙姑知道。仙姑深念咱們可憐，叫我從此回家來了，姊姊不必回太虛，免我兩人調換之勞，常在家中自便，埃將來壽終之日，雙回幻境，歸入仙班。我才到這裏，姊姊已經回去。聽丫頭們說：『等二爺祭過，再撤香供。』我所以候著二爺，先說明了，再同去見二位奶奶，合姊姊說話。」寶玉道：「咱們蒙仙姑如此垂憐，三生有幸。合你回去罷！」 Bao Yu returned to the garden, only to find everyone had already dispersed. He hurriedly went to the flower grave to burn incense and pay his respects, burned paper offerings, poured tea as a libation, and personally carried the shrine tablet to be burned away. He also went to the snow figure's grave and paid reverent homage, carefully inquiring from Qingyun about the scene of Qingwen's mourning ceremony. Qingyun was vague in her answers, and Bao Yu grew suspicious, pressing for details. Just as Qingyun was at a loss under Bao Yu's stern questioning, she suddenly heard someone calling from the air: "Second Master, I am right here." The sound startled everyone so much that their hair stood on end and they trembled in fear. Bao Yu recognized the voice as belonging to Wanjia's spirit, and was both startled and delighted. He quickly asked, "How did you come here?" The spirit of Wanjia said, "Today my sister wept bitterly at the grave." She went on to say a few more words that touched people's hearts deeply. The gods of daily wanderings, having heard this, reported to the immortal maiden because she was a fairy from the illusory realm, and thus informed the Fairy Madam through the wind. The Fairy Madam, moved by our pitiful situation, has ordered me to return home from now on. My sister need not go back to the Illusory Realm; this will save us both the trouble of switching places. I can stay at home freely for now, and when my time comes in the future, we shall both return to the illusory realm together and be reborn among the immortals. "I had just arrived here, and you have already returned." I heard the maids say: 'Wait until Second Master has made his offering before removing the incense and offerings.' "That's why I was waiting for Second Master, to explain things first before going together to see the two Madams and speak with my sister." Bao Yu said, "We are deeply honored by the Fairy Madam's compassion; it is a blessing in three lives. "Go back with her then!" |
| 38 | 寶玉走後，丫頭、媽子個個搖頭吐舌，有一人說道：「好靈……」說到此字又咽住了，乍著膽子問了一聲：「二姨娘去了嗎？」不聽聲響，才說：「好靈鬼！常言道：舉頭三尺有神明，再不錯的。」 After Bao Yu left, the maids and servants all shook their heads and stuck out their tongues. One of them said, "So... so spirit..." but stopped at that word, hesitated for a moment, then plucked up her courage to ask, "Has Second Madam passed away?" Hearing no response, she finally said, "What an amazing ghost!" "As the old saying goes: 'Three feet above your head are gods and spirits watching you.' It's absolutely true." |
| 39 | 不言媽子、丫頭饒舌，且說寶玉來至瀟湘館，黛玉道：「你可曾蕆事？」寶玉道：「先祭花塚，後拜雪墳，遇著一件奇事。」黛玉問：「什麼奇事？」寶玉道：「我帶了一個人來，叫他說給你們聽。」寶釵問：「帶了誰來？」只聽虛空說道：「二位奶奶別怕，我來了。」釵、黛二人打個寒嗓，叫聲：「呵唷！婉妹妹來了嗎？」婉香的魂道：「我來了。」將回寶玉的話述了一遍，晴雯在套間里短睡，忽聽婉香說話。忙出來道：「妹來大好，不等我來換你，必有要事來的。」婉香的魂又述了前言，晴雯道：「仙姑如此栽培咱們二人，覆載之德不過如此。往後你我神魂可以時刻相通，朝更暮換。」寶玉道：「我另收拾一所房子與你二入神魂棲息。」黛玉道：「可以不必，這房裡就作棲香之所。況且兩妹形影相隨，只消打個盹兒，這會兒是晴，那會兒是婉，自便不構，倒好極了。」寶釵道：「夜裏同床，可能一被歇宿？」婉香的魂道：「這卻不能，到底魂是陰氣，不當與生人陽氣混淆。帳外談心也是一樣。」寶玉說：「你今夜怎麼樣？」婉香的魂道：「就在這裡歇。」 Without mentioning the servants and maids gossiping further, let us return to Bao Yu, who arrived at Xiaoxiang Pavilion. Daiyu asked, "Have you finished your errand?" Bao Yu replied, "I first paid respects at the flower grave and then visited the snow tomb. I encountered a strange event along the way." Daiyu asked, "What kind of strange thing?" Bao Yu said, "I've brought a person with me. Let him tell you himself." Baocai asked, "Who have you brought?" Just then a voice from the air said, "Don't be afraid, Madams. I am coming." Baocai and Daiyu both shivered and exclaimed in unison, "Oh my!" "Has Wan Meimei come?" The spirit of Wanjiang said, "I have arrived." She recounted to them what Bao Yu had said. Qingwen, who was taking a short nap in the inner room, suddenly heard Wanjiang speaking. She hurried out and said, "Sister's arrival is most timely; you must have come with urgent business instead of waiting for me to fetch you." The spirit of Wanjiang repeated her previous words. Qingwen said, "Immortal Madam has been so kind to both of us; this is the very essence of her nurturing and protection." "Thereafter, our spirits can communicate at any moment, changing shifts from morning till night." Bao Yu said, "I will prepare another house for the two of you to rest your spirits in." Daiyu said, "It is unnecessary. This room can serve as a resting place for the fragrance of your spirit." "After all, the two sisters are always together like shadow and form. Just take a short nap; at one moment it's Qingwen, the next it's Wanjiang. It is most convenient and actually perfect." Baocai said, "At night when sleeping in the same bed, could you both rest under one quilt?" The spirit of Wanjiang replied, "That would not be possible. After all, a soul is yin in nature and should not mix with the yang energy of the living." "Having heart-to-heart talks outside the mosquito net is just as good." Bao Yu asked, "How would you like to arrange it tonight?" The spirit of Wanjiang said: "I will rest here." |
| 40 | 晴雯道：「我二人感仙姑再造之恩、二爺合二位奶奶栽培之德，生生世世報答不盡。將來這個身軀咽了氣，務必要將芙蓉家啟開，把這肉身與雪身合葬，千萬要緊！」寶玉道：「你兩人放心，任憑怎麼，這件事咱們三個人牢牢緊記的。我就將牌式先擬定了，說給你聽。待你兩人合墓後，墳頂上豎一碑「連理芙蓉塚」，墳前墓門上「邊室淑人晴雯吳氏、婉香柳氏合墓」，左書年月日，右書「紅樓主人賈寶玉拜立」。將來你二人過後，神主用兒子的稱呼可好？」晴雯笑道：「二爺這般恩惠，在俗語說死亦瞑目，在我兩人說生也忘憂了。」婉香的魂道：「姊姊的話回的很好，不用我再說了。難得二爺把咱們的事前前後後想的周到。」寶釵道：「告訴你們，二爺原也細心，這件事，玉奶奶早已合他斟酌的。」黛玉道：「你兩個記著，寶奶奶一同商議的。」晴雯道：「我兩人若說命好。則不該兩人共一身；若說命差，又遇著三位思主極力栽培。大概係命根淺，造化高，從此無復遺憾矣。」黛玉道：「好呀！這才是達人之言。時已更闌，也該歇了。」於是各人安寢，欲知後文，下回分解。 Qingwen said, "The two of us are deeply grateful for Immortal Madam's second chance at life and Master Er's as well as the two Madams' nurturing kindness. We can never repay this in a single lifetime." "When the time comes and my body draws its last breath, you must be sure to open up the lotus house and bury this physical form together with the snow body. This is of utmost importance!" Bao Yu said, "You two may rest assured. No matter what happens, the three of us will remember this matter firmly and never forget it." "I have already prepared a draft for the memorial tablet. Let me read it to you." "After the two of you are buried together, a stele shall be erected on top of the grave reading 'Lianli Fu Rong Zong' (Twin-stemmed Lotus Grave). On the tomb gate in front it will read: 'The Virtuous Lady Qingwen Wu Shi and Wanjiang Liu Shi, jointly interred.' The left side will record the date, while the right side reads 'Erected by Honglou Master Jia Bao Yu.'" "After you two pass away in the future, would it be acceptable to use your sons' names for the spirit tablets?" Qingwen smiled and said, "Such kindness from Master Er would mean in common words that I could die with my eyes closed. For the two of us, it means even while living we can forget all worries." The spirit of Wanjiang said: "Sister's words are perfectly expressed. There is no need for me to say anything further." "It is rare that Master Er has thought so thoroughly about all aspects of our affairs." Baocai said, "Let me tell you: Master Er is originally very meticulous. This matter was already carefully discussed and decided upon by Madam Yu long ago." Daiyu said, "The two of you should remember that Baonai Nai also participated in the discussion." Qingwen said, "If we were to say our fate is good," "it would not be because of being born as two souls in one body; if we were to say our fortune is poor, then again we have met three kind-hearted masters who have nurtured us with great effort." "It must be that although our roots of fate are shallow, the heavens' arrangements are high. From now on, we have no more regrets." Daiyu said, "That's wonderful!" "This is the kind of wise words one would expect from a sage." "It's already late at night; it's time to rest now." Thus, everyone went to sleep. To learn what happens next, please await the following chapter. |
URN: ctp:ws309913
| Enjoy this site? Please help. | Site design and content copyright 2006-2026. When quoting or citing information from this site, please link to the corresponding page or to http://ctext.org. Please note that the use of automatic download software on this site is strictly prohibited, and that users of such software are automatically banned without warning to save bandwidth. 沪ICP备09015720号-3 | Comments? Suggestions? Please raise them here.Do not click this link |