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《第三十回 林黛玉初演碧落緣 曹雪芹再結紅樓夢 Chapter 30: Lin Daiyu First Perform Bi Luo Yuan, Cao Xueqin Again Conclude Honglou Meng》[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  | 第三十回 林黛玉初演碧落緣 曹雪芹再結紅樓夢 Chapter 30: Lin Daiyu's First Performance of Bi Luo Yuan, Cao Xueqin Reconnects Honglou Meng |
| 2 | 話說賈政出差去，約有兩三月方可回來。王夫人也趁著家務清閒，到了薛姨媽那邊去。黛玉便告訴寶玉，要趁此時候先與曹雪芹送行。寶玉也喜歡得很，寶玉只怕姊妹們不能會齊了。黛玉道：「你也太多慮了，連寶姐姐這麼個道學人兒，也就為頭為腦的高興，誰還不願意的，除了香菱嫂子要悄悄地約她，其餘鸞嫂子、鳳妹妹也肯來。咱們總不要告訴他，只等裡面坐定了，你同哥哥、姜姐夫好好地哄他進來，越發有趣。那些南邊辦的事情通不要提起，且等酒席過了再告訴他，就拿他的家信給他瞧。」 It was said that Jia Zheng had gone on a business trip and would not return for about two or three months. Madam Wang also took advantage of the quiet period with household affairs and went over to Xue Yimama's place. Daiyu then informed Bao Yu that they should take this opportunity to see Cao Xueqin off first. Bao Yu was also very pleased, for he was afraid the sisters would not all be able to gather together. Daiyu said, "You worry too much. Even Baojiejie, who is so scholarly and proper, is delighted to take the lead; who else would not be willing? Besides Xiangling's sister-in-law, whom we need to invite secretly, the rest—Luan's sister-in-law and Fengmeimei—are all willing to come." "We shouldn't tell him beforehand. Just wait until everyone is seated inside, and you, along with your elder brother and Jiang Jieshu, can coax him in properly—it will be even more interesting that way." "Don't mention at all the matters handled in the south, and wait until after the banquet to tell him. Just show him his family letters then." |
| 3 | 寶玉喜得了不得。兩個人正商議著，寶釵也走進來，說道：「林丫頭，前日說的話怎麼樣，天氣也好得很，不要耽誤了時候兒。」黛玉道：「可不是呢，我正在這裏告訴他。」寶玉道：「好姐姐，你也來得正好，咱們就明日樂一天罷。」寶釵道：「今日也好不過，明日從容些。只是南邊的事情曹先生通沒有知道，也不用等老爺回來告訴他，長久出門的人兒盼得家信緊，況且有他老太太的平安字兒，咱們何不今日告訴了他。」 Bao Yu was overjoyed. While the two were discussing, Baochai also walked in and said, "Lin丫头, how did your plans from the other day go? The weather is very nice; don't waste any time." Daiyu said, "Indeed it is. I was just telling him here." Bao Yu said, "Dear sister, you have come at the right time. Let us enjoy ourselves for a whole day tomorrow." Baochai said, "Today is just as good as any other day; it might even be more convenient tomorrow." "Just because Master Cao doesn't know anything about the matters in the south yet, we don't need to wait for Uncle Jia to return and tell him. People who have been away from home for a long time eagerly await letters from their families; especially since there is also a message of safety from his grandmother, why not inform him today?" |
| 4 | 黛玉道：「我也這麼想，不如明日酒後告訴他，他更樂呢。一則怕他見了字兒思鄉起來，二則也要告訴了他，一定要等老爺回來了再起身。等他應承了這一句，纔給他這封字兒看。」寶玉、寶釵都說妥當得很。寶玉道：「這麼著我今日正要到姨媽家去，請姨媽、太太的安，我就悄悄地告訴臻兒，約下香菱嫂子，順便就那邊去告訴林、姜兩兄，鸞、鳳二妹，明日早早地過來做一個雅集兒。」黛玉、寶釵都說好。寶玉即便去了。 Daiyu said, "I was thinking the same. Why not tell him after the banquet tomorrow? He will be even happier that way." "One reason is to prevent him from feeling homesick upon reading the letter, and secondly, we must also inform him that he will have to wait until Uncle Jia returns before leaving." "Only after he agrees to this should we show him the letter." Both Bao Yu and Baochai thought it was very well arranged. Bao Yu said, "Since I was planning to go to Aima's house today to pay my respects and greet Auntie and Madam, I will quietly inform Zhen'er to invite Xiangling's sister-in-law. On the way, I can also let Lin Xiong, Jiang Xiong, Luan Mei, and Feng Mei know in advance so they may come over early tomorrow for a refined gathering." Daiyu and Baochai both said it was a good idea. Bao Yu then left immediately. |
| 5 | 黛玉一面叫藕官來，叫她到梨香院去告訴一班姊妹，明日要揀簇新的從沒有唱過的戲唱，今晚先將曲本兒送過來瞧。黛玉又同寶釵去約李紈、平兒去了。路上遇著探春、湘雲，也同去了。原來黛玉、寶釵平日很敬重曹雪芹，一則是賈政、寶玉的至交，二則是前後《紅樓夢》兩書總為他夫婦三人寫照，心裏十分感激。因此上悄悄地探知雪芹有回南之意，知道負才高傲，不肯干謁諸侯，倦遊遠回，卻又無以自樂。且曹老太太漸漸年高起來，這位雪芹先生又是一個光明磊落之人，不肯低首下心，再去求這五斗米的。黛玉有的是銀子，什麼事情辦不出來？便悄悄地打發蔡良、單升往曹雪芹家鄉置下三千金一所住宅，也有菜畦、花園、竹園、藕池，又將一萬金替他置了八百畝水旱不竭的良田，又送他幾所水碓棧房，每月有百金花利，可以日用無憂，趁意地遨遊名山五嶽。這蔡良、單陞實在辦得精細，連動用家伙什物，件件辦得齊全，伺候得曹老太太、曹太太、曹少爺、曹姑娘搬進新宅。另外留下一萬兩的安家，還怕有新任的官兒查著漏稅，連契紙兒通稅過了。交代清楚，方纔討了家信，開了細折，趕進京交與黛玉。黛玉也很誇他妥當。 Daiyu called over Liu Guan and instructed her to go to Li Xiangyuan and inform the other sisters that tomorrow they would select brand new plays that had never been performed before, and asked them to send the scripts over tonight for review. Daiyu also went with Baochai to invite Li Wan and Ping'er. On the way, they met Tanchun and Xiangyun, who also joined them. Originally, Daiyu and Baochai always held Cao Xueqin in high regard; first, he was a close friend of Jia Zheng and Bao Yu, and second, the two books "Honglou Meng" before and after were essentially portraits of them and their spouses. They felt deeply grateful toward him. Therefore, they had secretly learned that Xueqin intended to return south. Knowing of his lofty talent and proud nature, he refused to visit nobles or seek official positions, yet he was weary from traveling far away and lacked a way to find joy for himself. Moreover, Madam Cao was gradually growing older. This Master Xueqin was a man of integrity and honesty who would not lower his head or humble himself to seek the meager salary again. Daiyu had plenty of silver; what could she not accomplish? She secretly sent Cai Liang and Shan Sheng to his hometown of Cao Xueqin to purchase a residence worth three thousand taels of gold, complete with vegetable plots, flower gardens, bamboo groves, and lotus ponds. She also spent ten thousand taels on eight hundred acres of fertile land that was productive regardless of drought or flood, and gave him several water-powered mills and storage houses, which would yield one hundred taels in monthly interest for his daily expenses without worry, allowing him to travel freely among the famous mountains and Five Sacred Peaks as he pleased. These Cai Liang and Shan Shen were indeed meticulous in their work, even procuring every necessary item with complete care. They ensured that Madam Cao, Lady Cao, Master Cao, and Miss Cao could move into the new residence comfortably. In addition, they left behind ten thousand taels as a settlement fund and even feared that newly appointed officials might investigate for unpaid taxes. Therefore, all the deeds were properly taxed to avoid any issues. After everything was clearly arranged and settled, they obtained the family letters, prepared a detailed account, and hurried back to the capital to deliver it to Daiyu. Daiyu also praised them for handling everything properly. |
| 6 | 這曹雪芹哪裡得知。這時候正是九秋天氣，到了次日早晨，曹雪芹正在林府裏濟美堂的左書廳東邊房內獨自一個人坐在那裏，恰好白魯隔一日前被外城朋友拉出去寫字，住在外城沒有回來，正是寂靜得緊。只聞得前前後後院子裏的木樨香兒，就走到小栖霞去，想聽個曲兒解解悶。哪知言、張、兩杭也往外城戲園子去了，只得又走了回來，呆呆地坐著。順手將書卷一翻，看見《杜工部詩集》，也就取過來看看。不知不覺地高了興，就吟哦起來，剛念到「南菊再開人臥病，西風一繫故園心」，只聽得賈寶玉、林良玉、姜景星一同進來，笑嘻嘻的道：「曹老先生，好用功呀，咱們要荒你的功，拉到那邊去玩玩。」曹雪芹站起來，打一欠伸道：「小弟今日懶得很。」寶玉就央及道：「好先生，包管你走一走，這懶筋兒就舒服了。」惹得大家笑起來。這曹雪芹本是一個無可無不可的，這會子現在悶著，又是這三個人拉他，如何不去，就要換起衣冠來。姜景星笑道：「老先生，你這麼個脫俗人兒，還拘著這個，況且左右都是自己家裏，不過求著你老人家，一同的走走散散。」 Master Cao Xueqin, of course, had no idea about any of this. At this time, it was the season of early autumn. The next morning, Cao Xueqin happened to be sitting alone in a room on the east side of the left study hall within Lin Fu's Jimei Hall. Bai Lu had been taken out by friends from the outer city for calligraphy work one day earlier and had stayed there without returning; thus, it was particularly quiet inside. He could only smell the osmanthus fragrance wafting from the courtyards in front and behind. He then walked toward Xiao Qixia, intending to listen to some music to relieve his boredom. Little did he know that Yan, Zhang, and the two Hangs had also gone to a theater in the outer city. With no one around, he could do nothing but return and sit there listlessly. He随手 flipped through some books and came across "The Poetry Collection of Du Gongbu." He took it up and began to read. Unaware of the time passing, he became cheerful and began reciting aloud. Just as he reached the lines "The southern chrysanthemums bloom again while I lie ill; the western wind tugs at my heart for my native land," he heard Jia Bao Yu, Lin Liangyu, and Jiang Jingxing enter together, smiling and saying, "Master Cao, you're studying hard! We are about to disturb your studies and take you over there to play." Cao Xueqin stood up, yawned, and said, "I am very lazy today, brothers." Bao Yu pleaded, "Dear Master, I promise that if you just take a walk, your laziness will be cured and you'll feel much better." This made everyone laugh. Cao Xueqin was originally a person who didn't mind much either way. Now that he was feeling bored and these three were pulling him along, how could he possibly refuse? He immediately began to change into his formal attire. Jiang Jingxing smiled and said, "Master, you are such a refined person; why still be bound by these formalities? Besides, we're all in our own home. We merely wish to accompany you for a pleasant walk." |
| 7 | 曹雪芹便笑著點點頭兒，就同著他們三個一同走過榮國府來。慌得這兩個府門口幾十位體面管家二爺們，一齊站起來垂著手。他們四位走到外書房，賈璉慌忙陪著笑，接進去坐下，喝了茶。寶玉就請到大觀園裏去。這曹雪芹素知賈府的規矩森嚴，但凡五尺之童，不奉傳喚不入中門。又這個大觀園自從元妃、仲妃遊幸之後，通是太太們姑娘們住的所在，官客非至親不進去。又是賈政出差，寶玉孩氣，如何便同他進去逛園。就算賈政不知，也過意不去。雖則內眷們也是賈政叫都見過了，設或在園中遇著，還是照應好不照應好，就說道：「寶世兄，你不要太玩兒了，你只要到上頭去，替我請太太的安，這園子裏我是不去的。我難道不曉得是內眷們住的園亭？」 Cao Xueqin smiled and nodded, then walked with the three of them together to Rongguo Fu. This caused dozens of well-dressed stewards and young masters at the two gate entrances to hurriedly stand up with their hands respectfully lowered. The four of them walked into the outer study, and Jia Lian hurriedly smiled and accompanied them in, seating them inside for tea. Bao Yu then invited them to Daguanyuan. Cao Xueqin had always known that the Jia family followed strict rules; even a five-foot-tall child could not enter the main gate without being summoned. Moreover, since Princess Yuan and Concubine Zhong had visited Daguanyuan, it had become a place exclusively for the ladies of the household. Officials or guests who were not close relatives could not enter. Moreover, with Jia Zheng away on a business trip and Bao Yu being so childish, how could he just go in with him to tour the garden? Even if Jia Zheng did not know about it, Cao Xueqin still felt uneasy about it. Although the female relatives had all been introduced to Jia Zheng, if they were to meet by chance in the garden, it would be awkward whether or not he could properly greet them. He said, "Bao Shixiong, you shouldn't play too much. Just go upstairs and pay your respects to Madam on my behalf; I will not enter this garden." "Do I not know that it is a place where the female relatives live?" |
| 8 | 林良玉道：「老先生，你沒知道，今日太太帶著嫂子們姑娘們，一起往薛姨太太家去了，寶兄弟怪清靜的，受不得，所以拉我們過來。其實秋色也富麗，桂花也盛開，只怕我們鬧到月斜了，他們還不回來呢。」賈璉也說道：「老先生，真個的這樣。」姜景星道：「咱們就過去吧。」曹雪芹也就信了，就攜了寶玉的手大家走過來。原來這一日的戲酒設在綴綿閣，這個閣，閣兒外四面皆曲水紅欄，板橋曲岸，傍閣臨涯盡是重重疊疊的青山，山坳內棕亭竹樓，也多有小路兒直通到橋上。又是各色各樣的鴈來紅、秋黃、雞冠、秋海棠，也到處開滿的菊花，菊花細種，皆一層層擺著描金五彩盆、玉石盆，真個是萬種秋容，滿地千層，古桂參天，一陣陣風兒吹過來，香得了不得。當下賈璉陪著雪芹等到園門口，就說：「老爺不在家，怕外面有些事情，寶兄弟陪著吧。」 Lin Liangyu said, "Master, you don't know. Today Madam took the sisters-in-law and the young ladies to Xue Aitai's house together. Bao Brother found it too quiet at home and couldn't bear it, so he pulled us over." "In fact, the autumn scenery is splendid and the osmanthus flowers are in full bloom. We just fear that if we make too much noise until the moon tilts westward, they might not return yet." Jia Lian also said, "Master, it is really like this." Jiang Jingxing said, "Then let's go ahead and visit the garden." Cao Xueqin believed them and took Bao Yu's hand as they all walked over together. Originally, the day's theatrical performance and banquet were set in Zhuimian Ge. This pavilion was surrounded on all sides by winding streams and red balustrades outside its walls; there were wooden bridges and curved riverbanks nearby. Alongside the pavilion, cliffs were flanked by layer upon layer of green mountains. In the mountain hollows, palm tree pavilions and bamboo towers could be found, with many small paths leading directly to the bridge. Moreover, various kinds of Yanlaihong (a type of chrysanthemum), qiu huang (autumn yellow flowers), jiguang (cock's comb flower), and qiuhetian (autumn hibiscus) were in full bloom everywhere. The chrysanthemums, carefully cultivated in different varieties, were arranged layer by layer in gilded five-color pots and jade stone pots. Truly, it was a scene of countless autumn beauties, with flowers covering the ground in layers upon layers. Ancient osmanthus trees towered overhead, and as the wind blew through from time to time, their fragrance filled the air delightfully. At that moment, Jia Lian accompanied Xueqin to the garden gate and said, "Uncle is not at home. I am afraid there might be some matters outside; Bao Brother will accompany you." |
| 9 | 賈璉就轉去了。曹雪芹就同他們三個走進來。這邊綴錦閣下，已經鋪設得天宮似的，戲毯兒就攤在院子里閣子底下，也盡開闊。中間一席，兩旁各三席，席前也鋪了大紅漳絨滿花的拜單。黛玉、寶釵、探春、李紈、史湘雲、喜鸞、喜鳳、香菱、紫娟、晴雯、鶯兒、平兒共十二個人，大家靚裝艷服，在閣後翻軒內坐著看菊花閒話，等曹雪芹進來，出去相見，也在哪裡各人憶各人的菊花詩兒。這邊曹雪芹同了寶玉、良玉、景星走進大觀園園門，走過了虎皮石路，當面就是一帶翠畽，再往前進便許多石筍兒。這石狀奇怪，也如異鳥怪獸，映著些樹木藤羅。那些藤羅上，畢竟是深秋了，也結著許多鮮紅的子兒，如珊瑚珠一般。寶玉就領了他們三個穿過幾條曲徑，上了山頂，又盤下去。過了石洞，到了平坦之處，飛樓畫檻，皆斗接銜抱於山坳，但覺得碧樹幹霄，青溪瀉玉，走上去便是沁芳亭。寶玉卻不引他們到綴錦閣去，先順了路同到瀟湘館來。笑著讓他們道：「舍下去坐一坐兒。」 Jia Lian then turned back and left. Cao Xueqin then entered the garden with them three. Under Zhuojin Ge on this side, the area had already been arranged like a celestial palace. The theatrical carpets were spread out beneath the pavilion in the courtyard, and everything was spacious and open. In the center was one seat, with three seats on each side; in front of each seat lay a large red Zhang velvet embroidered with full floral patterns as seating mats. Daiyu, Baochai, Tanchun, Li Wan, Shi Xiangyun, Xiluan, Xifeng, Xiangling, Zijuan, Qingwen, Ying'er, and Ping'er—twelve people in total—were all dressed up beautifully. They sat inside the pavilion behind the turning轩 (a type of covered corridor or room), admiring chrysanthemums and chatting idly while waiting for Cao Xueqin's arrival to greet him. Each person was also reciting their own chrysanthemum-themed poetry there. On this side, Cao Xueqin walked with Bao Yu, Liangyu, and Jingxing through the gate of Daguanyuan. After passing over a path paved with tiger-skin stones, they came face to face with a stretch of emerald grassland. Further ahead were many stone shoots (pointed rock formations). These stones had strange and unusual shapes, resembling exotic birds or bizarre beasts, set against the backdrop of trees and vines. On those vines, it was indeed deep autumn, and many bright red berries had formed, resembling coral beads. Bao Yu led the three of them through several winding paths to the top of the hill and then down along a winding path. After passing through a stone cave and reaching a flat area, there were flying pavilions with painted railings that connected and embraced the mountain hollow. One could only feel the sight of emerald trees piercing the sky and clear streams cascading like jade. Walking forward led directly to Qinfang Pavilion. However, Bao Yu did not lead them toward Zhuojin Ge first; instead, he followed the path and brought them to Xiaoxiang Guan. Smiling, he invited them in and said, "Please come inside for a while." |
| 10 | 惹得眾人大笑起來。曹雪芹道：「世兄，你這麼個雅人，這看竹子還沒有在行。你只要站在這裏，看這一帶粉壁花墻映著千竿的翠竹，也就好看呢。」寶玉道：「是便是了，到底要看看主人家，沒有個過門不入的？」 This caused everyone to burst into laughter. Cao Xueqin said, "Young Master, you are such a cultivated person, yet you still do not know much about appreciating bamboo." "Just stand here and look at this stretch of white-walled, flower-embellished walls reflecting against thousands of green bamboo stalks; it is already very beautiful." Bao Yu replied, "That may be true, but I still want to see the host. Who would not enter a house when passing through its gate?" |
| 11 | 雪芹道：「看竹何須問主人。」說著笑著，也就進來，同到堂中坐下。看不盡的古董字畫。小麼兒就抱了兩個銀絲盒兒上來，一碟松瓤乳油酥，一碟梅花香屑風米糕，一碟杏仁飛面野雞合子，一碟玫瑰合桃蛋卷兒，配上龍井茶。景星道：「原來是寶兄弟招進來打尖呢。」大家就用了些，景星只看壁上的詩，要尋著黛玉的筆跡，哪裏招得出，就問寶玉討著看。寶玉道：「落紙就燒掉了。」景星道：「批的前後《紅樓夢》呢？」寶玉道：「可不是鎖在箱子裏，連老先生要看，也是我過批出去的，還只許過了圈點，連批語通不許抄出去呢。」林良玉笑道：「真個的。」 Xueqin said, "To appreciate bamboo, one need not ask the owner." As he spoke and laughed, they entered together and sat down in the hall. There were antiques and calligraphy paintings everywhere, too numerous to take in at once. A young servant girl brought up two silver-threaded boxes, containing a dish of pine-stuffed milk oil pastry, a dish of plum-scented rice cakes, a dish of almond-flour stuffed pheasant dumplings, and a dish of rose and peach egg rolls, all served with Longjing tea. Jingxing said, "So it was Bao Brother who invited you in for a meal." Everyone had some of the food. Jingxing, however, only looked at the poems on the walls, trying to find Daiyu's handwriting. Unable to locate it, he asked Bao Yu for permission to look more closely. Bao Yu said, "The paper was burned as soon as it was written." Jingxing asked, "What about the annotations for the pre- and post-Honglou Meng?" Bao Yu said, "Indeed it is locked in a chest. Even if Master wanted to see it, I would have to go through the annotations first. Moreover, only those who are marked with circles may read them, and even then, no one is allowed to copy out any of the comments." Lin Liangyu laughed and said, "Truly so." |
| 12 | 姜景星笑道：「怪不得了。」就將從前問起寶玉，寶玉動了醋意的光景說出來，眾人盡皆大笑。就走出來沿著粉牆去。忽見青山斜阻，轉過去，露出一帶黃泥墻，牆上皆用稻莖遮著。眾人知是李宮裁的院子，便不進去。只看了些蓑笠犁鋤桔槔轆軸之具，也有些雞鵝鴨兒。再走過去，恰好後面那個山勢穿著墻，一派一派的過來，也夾著活水放閘，轉過山坡，全在濃蔭樹影裏過去。便走過了蓼花汀、紫菱洲、藕香榭。寶玉又拉他們進怡紅院去，看這一棵枯木重生，越發茂盛的海棠。又拉進蘅蕪院，告訴他們，這是寶釵的舊居。眾人也摘了好些香果兒在手裏。又走過浣葛山莊。倒是林良玉恐怕黛玉她們等候久了，就催他們轉過大觀樓，一直望綴錦閣來。就有藕官、芳官、文官、齡官等十二個女孩子一齊穿著刷花的真珠裘小衫，拖著灑花各色的褲腿，踏著滿幫花各色的鞋兒，。一齊地趕上來，攙著曹雪芹的手，迎他進去。雪芹一進了院子，望見了錦繡珠璣擺設的百分鮮麗，閣底下還擺著七席正席。就站住了，驚異起來，說道：「寶世兄，到底有什麼客人？」 Jiang Jingxing chuckled and said, "No wonder!" He then recounted how he had previously questioned Bao Yu about something that had caused Bao Yu to become jealous, which made everyone burst into laughter. They stepped outside and walked along the white-washed walls. 稂 uddenly, they saw a range of green hills slanting across their view. As they turned around the corner, a stretch of yellow clay wall came into sight, with reeds covering it entirely. Recognizing this as Li Gongcai's courtyard, everyone decided not to enter. They only took a look at some farming tools such as straw raincoats, bamboo hats, plows, hoes, and water-lifting devices, along with a few chickens, geese, and ducks. As they walked further, the mountain behind them passed through the wall in a series of ridges. Streams flowed between them with sluices releasing water. Turning over the hillside, everything was shaded by dense foliage and tree shadows. They then passed through Lianhuating, Ziling Zhou, and Ouxiang Xie. Bao Yu once again led them into Yihongyuan to see a withered tree that had miraculously regrown and was now flourishing, bearing hibiscus flowers. He also pulled them into Hengwu Yuan and told them that this had been Baochai's former residence. Everyone picked a good number of fragrant fruits to hold in their hands. They then passed by Huage Shanzhuang. Lin Liangyu, however, was afraid that Lin Daiyu and the others had been waiting too long, so he urged them to turn around at Daguan Lou and head straight toward Zhu Jin Ge. Twelve girls, including Ouguan, Fangguan, Wenguang, and Lingguan, all wore small jackets made of brocade embroidered with pearl patterns, trousers in various colors decorated with scattered floral designs, and shoes with full soles covered in colorful floral embroidery. They all hurried up together, holding Cao Xueqin's hands and accompanying him inside. As soon as Xueqin entered the courtyard, he saw the dazzlingly beautiful arrangements of brocade and pearl decorations. Beneath the pavilion were seven full sets of seating arranged in order. He stopped, surprised, and said, "Bao Shixiong, just who is the guest after all?" |
| 13 | 姜、林兩個笑道：「曹先生，你進去就知道了。」寶玉就飛跑進去了。曹雪芹還要問問，當不起芳官、藕官、齡官這班女孩子，就像蜜蜂螞蟻朝王似的，把一個曹雪芹扛了進來，一直推到正中間第一席第一座上。雪芹不知分曉，只一手據著席，一手據著椅子，如何肯坐進去。這芳官就拿頭來頂他。正在同這班女孩子鬧著，只見屏風後一群仙姬出來。曹雪芹掙脫了要走。這黛玉、寶釵一起十二位一齊望上拜將下去。慌得曹雪芹走到東首壁腳邊，一樣地還了禮。隨後林、姜二人也見了禮。寶玉就從黛玉、寶釵起，直到平兒，逐一通名道姓。曹雪芹道：「當不起各位夫人的盛禮，在下實在慚惶，實在寶二世兄沒有說知，青鞋布襪的過來，益發地不恭敬了。」 Jiang and Lin both smiled and said, "Mr. Cao, you will know once you go in." Bao Yu then ran inside quickly. Cao Xueqin was about to ask more, but before he could, Fangguan, Ouguan, Lingguan and the other girls rushed forward like bees and ants heading for their queen, carrying Cao Xueqin in and pushing him all the way to the first seat at the central table. Xueqin, not understanding what was happening, held one hand on the mat and the other on the chair, unwilling to sit down. Fangguan then pushed him with her head. Just as he was playing around with the girls, a group of fairy-like women suddenly emerged from behind the screen. Cao Xueqin struggled to break free and tried to run away. Lin Daiyu, Xiangyun, Baochai, and eleven others all bowed together toward the front in unison. Startled, Cao Xueqin hurried to the eastern wall corner and returned the courtesy with equal formality. Subsequently, Lin and Jiang also paid their respects. Bao Yu then began with Lin Daiyu and Baochai and went all the way down to Ping'er, introducing each one by name. Cao Xueqin said, "I am truly unworthy of such a grand reception by all the ladies. I feel deeply ashamed and embarrassed. My younger brother Bao Er did not inform me beforehand, so I came over in simple cloth shoes and plain clothes, which is even more disrespectful." |
| 14 | 寶玉笑道：「老先生，你還說這個話兒。可不是良大哥說得好，像姜大哥方配得穿個衣服兒，像曹先生方配得不穿衣服兒，誰不服這兩句話。而今請先生入座了，大家方好坐。」 Bao Yu smiled and said, "Master, you still say such things." "Isn't it just as Brother Liang said? Only someone like Uncle Jiang is worthy of wearing fine clothes, and only a person like Master Cao is truly humble enough to wear simple attire. Who could possibly disagree with those two sentences?" "Now that we have invited you, Master, to take your seat, then everyone else may sit as well." |
| 15 | 曹雪芹再三推辭，要兩邊坐，姜景星、林良玉都道：「先生通算做門生媳婦便了，怎麼讓起來。」雪芹道：「這樣說，小弟一定該稱晚生了。」這裏正讓著，那芳官一班女孩子又一群地上來，直將曹雪芹按住在正中間第一座上。紫娟、晴雯、鶯兒三個人服事了。黛玉、寶釵、喜鸞、喜鳳上席來送了杯盤。曹雪芹不便回敬，只走到各席前打恭謝了，然後入座。景星、良玉、寶玉兩橫相陪。排下去左首是史湘雲，右首是李宮裁坐起，直到平兒共賓主一十六人坐定。因請賈璉不過來，李紈就叫了蘭哥兒來跟著林姑夫坐。蘭哥兒又為的對面是寶玉，爺兒兩個不便對坐，打了恭，告過坐，方纔坐下，共是一十七個人。當下曹雪芹留心看去，只見黛玉，穿著粉紅色三藍鳳穿牡丹花的緞披風，下襯著墨色灑線洋菊花滿繡裙，鬢兒邊圍了半邊桂花球，垂下無數的長珠串。寶釵穿著豆綠色顧繡梅花翠羽的緞披風，下襯著大紅花縐切金蝙蝠鏤雲裙，頭上貼幾枝扁翠芙蓉。李紈、探春一樣的燕尾青哆羅呢掛子，大紅哆羅呢如意掛線裙。喜鸞、喜鳳、香菱等也打扮得十分艷麗，只有史湘雲穿著件氅衣，戴一頂巾，像箇黃冠的模樣。通是紫黑白三色的種骨羊裘兒。當下曹雪芹坐下，便道：「曹雪芹今日承諸兄諸位夫人這樣盛禮，可也當不起。」 Cao Xueqin repeatedly declined, insisting on sitting at the side. But Jiang Jingxing and Lin Liangyu both said, "Master, you are practically a son-in-law of our family; how could we possibly let you stand?" Xueqin replied, "If that is the case, then I must certainly call myself a junior disciple." While they were still exchanging courtesies, Fangguan and the group of girls rushed in again, forcing Cao Xueqin to sit down at the very center seat. Zijuan, Qingwen, and Ying'er served him personally. Lin Daiyu, Baochai, Xiluan, and Xifeng came forward with cups and dishes to serve the guests. Cao Xueqin did not feel it was appropriate to reciprocate, so he merely bowed in gratitude at each table before finally taking his seat. Jingxing, Liangyu, and Bao Yu sat on either side to accompany him. To his left was Shi Xiangyun, and to his right sat Li Gongcai, continuing down the line until Ping'er. In total, sixteen guests and hosts were seated in place. Since Jia Lian was not invited to come over, Li Wan called Lan Ge'er to sit with Lin Gufu. Lan Ge'er, seeing that Bao Yu was seated directly across from him, felt it was inappropriate for the two of them to face each other. He bowed respectfully and asked permission before finally sitting down. This brought the total number of people present to seventeen. At that moment, Cao Xueqin carefully observed and saw Lin Daiyu wearing a pink satin cloak embroidered with blue phoenixes among peonies. Underneath was a dark-colored skirt fully embroidered with scattered chrysanthemum patterns in thread embroidery. Half of her hair was adorned with osmanthus balls, from which hung countless long strands of pearl tassels. Baochai wore a green satin cloak with embroidered plum blossoms and emerald feathers, Gu Xiu style. Underneath was a deep red pleated skirt decorated with golden bats on carved cloud patterns. On her head were several flat jade lotus flowers attached as ornaments. Li Wan and Tan Chun both wore swallow-tailed dark blue Doro ni jackets, paired with deep red Doro ni skirts embroidered with auspicious patterns in thread. Xiluan, Xifeng, Xiangling and others were also dressed in very bright and elegant attire. Only Shi Xiangyun wore a chanyi robe and a cap on her head, resembling the appearance of someone wearing a yellow official's hat. All were dressed in purple, black, or white sheepskin coats made from young lambs' wool. As Cao Xueqin sat down, he said, "Today I have received such a grand reception from all of you brothers and esteemed ladies. Truly, I feel unworthy." |
| 16 | 李紈先說道：「老先生休得過謙，今日主人本是林薛二位的敬意，卻是咱們母子也得個借花獻佛，小兒全仗了教訓，如何敢忘。」就叫蘭哥兒：「替我敬師傅。」蘭哥兒就起來斟酒。曹雪芹只得領謝了。黛玉曉得曹雪芹酒量不甚高，只送一個杯與寶玉遞上去，卻是一個小小的翡翠玉杯兒，比大拇指差不多大小。雪芹連忙笑領了。這陪坐的一齊點頭笑起來。黛玉就叫紫鵑、晴雯、鶯兒上來替自己斟酒。曹雪芹連忙站起來，托寶玉謝住，說：「斷斷不敢當。」寶玉哪裏肯。林、姜二人也說：「先生，只好領了，卻不得主人的盛情。」 Li Wan spoke first, saying, "Master, please do not be too modest. Today's hospitality is originally a gesture of respect from Lin and Xue. Yet we as mothers and children also get to offer our humble tribute by borrowing the flowers for this offering. My son has greatly benefited from your teachings; how could he ever forget?" She then called out to Lan Ge'er, "Go ahead and offer a toast to my master." Lan Ge'er immediately rose to pour the wine. Cao Xueqin had no choice but to accept and express his thanks. Lin Daiyu knew that Cao Xueqin could not hold much alcohol, so she only gave a small emerald jade cup to Bao Yu to pass up. The cup was about the size of a thumb. Xueqin quickly smiled and accepted it. Those seated nearby all nodded and laughed in approval. Lin Daiyu then called Zijuan, Qingwen, and Yinger to come forward and pour wine for herself. Cao Xueqin immediately stood up, asked Bao Yu to stop the gesture, and said, "I truly cannot accept this." Bao Yu would not agree. Lin and Jiang both said, "Master, you must accept this; otherwise it will be a waste of the host's generous hospitality." |
| 17 | 雪芹就站了腳，低了頭，一口氣喝過三杯，再低著頭拱拱手說道：「三位姑娘，請不要折壞了曹雪芹。」惹得眾人合座大笑。原來曹雪芹果真量小，喝了這三小杯的酒，面上就春色起來，只將頭來搖，再將指頭拈拈鬚，弄弄自己的鈕子。黛玉就悄悄地笑，向寶釵道：「你看老先生斯文的，又像吟詩了。」 Xueqin stood on his toes, lowered his head, and drank three cups in one breath. Then, still bowing with clasped hands, he said, "Misses, please do not break Cao Xueqin." This caused everyone at the table to burst into laughter. In fact, Cao Xueqin really could not hold his liquor. After drinking just those three small cups, a flush of color appeared on his face. He shook his head and then fidgeted with his mustache and the buttons on his own clothes. Lin Daiyu quietly laughed and said to Baochai, "Look at the old gentleman; he is so refined, yet now he looks as if about to recite a poem." |
| 18 | 寶釵笑道：「不是吟詩，又要將席上的光景替咱們編入《紅樓夢》呢。」這席上聽見了的又笑起來。寶釵恐怕曹雪芹醉了，說叫：「快替曹太爺送醒酒湯上去。」林良玉道：「到底今日主人的盛意，也要請主人家自己宣一宣兒。」姜景星也說：「很是的，我們陪客也要知道的。」 Baochai smiled and said, "It's not poetry he is about to recite; it must be that he wants to include the scene at this banquet into Honglou Meng." Those seated nearby who heard this burst out laughing again. Baochai, fearing that Cao Xueqin might get too drunk, called out, "Quickly bring some hangover soup to Master Cao." Lin Liangyu said, "After all, today's generous hospitality from the host must also be announced by the host himself." Jiang Jingxing added, "That is very true; we as guests should know about it too." |
| 19 | 黛玉道：「咱們姊妹間家常事兒，煩先生錦心繡口編出前後兩部《紅樓夢》，叫天下後世的通知道咱們這幾個人兒。咱們算得上什麼，無不過托了先生這兩部書也便不朽了。」 Lin Daiyu said, "These are just everyday matters among us sisters. We trouble you, Master, with your poetic mind and eloquent tongue to compile the two parts of Honglou Meng, so that people throughout the world for generations to come will know about us." "What are we really? We amount to nothing. It is only by virtue of these two books written by you, Master, that our names will be remembered forever." |
| 20 | 曹雪芹連忙謝不敢。寶釵道：「你說得還小，想先生的抱負，三長七略，百城五車，盡可研京練都。休說雕龍吐鳳，乃使劍氣未騰，珠光莫識，誰為看者，應增相士之差。先生故欲晦名，借此抒寫，揮毫染素，我等適供指揮。這兩部書不好算咱們的描真，只好算先生的著述小影。為什麼先生的各種的著述不許人傳，單這兩部書給人傳抄呢。」眾人一齊稱服。曹雪芹連說：「這個益發不敢當。」 Cao Xueqin quickly declined with a bow, saying he was unworthy. Baochai said, "You are still underestimating yourself. Considering Master's ambitions—his mastery of the Three Classics and Seven Strategies, his vast knowledge comparable to five chariots of books—he could easily become a scholar in the capital or an official in the imperial court." "Do not speak of carving dragons and breathing phoenixes. Even now, his sword-like spirit has yet to rise fully, and the brilliance of his pearls remains unrecognized. Who among us can truly recognize such talent? This will surely increase the error in judging people." "Master deliberately wishes to remain obscure, using this as an excuse to express himself. With his brushstrokes on white silk, we are merely here at your command." "These two books cannot be considered true portraits of us; they can only be regarded as a small reflection of Master's writings." "Why is it that none of your other works are allowed to be passed on, yet these two books are the only ones permitted for people to copy and spread?" Everyone present nodded in agreement. Cao Xueqin kept saying, "This is even more something I cannot accept." |
| 21 | 這曹雪芹見這番議論，就自己斟一杯飲了，謝寶玉夫婦三位。就送上戲目，請雪芹點戲。雪芹道：「世兄同二位夫人這樣盛禮，我也不知前生什麼緣法，得此奇逢，還敢推辭點戲。但則府上的女樂從沒見過，今日雅集，必須點些上好的戲兒，在下的意思要同林、姜兩兄商議，請寶二世兄轉求主人點戲，未知何如？」良玉、景星也說好得很。史湘雲、探春也直截就說道：「恭敬不如從命，你二位就依了老先生吧。」 Seeing this discussion, Cao Xueqin poured himself a cup of wine and drank it to express his gratitude toward Bao Yu, Daiyu, and Baochai. They then presented the list of plays and invited Xueqin to choose one. Xueqin said, "With such a grand reception from my elder brother and the two esteemed ladies, I do not even know what karmic connection in past lives has brought me this rare encounter. How could I dare to refuse choosing a play?" "But since I have never seen the female musicians of your household before, and today is such a refined gathering, it would be necessary to choose some excellent plays. In my opinion, I should consult with Brothers Lin and Jiang first. Please ask Bao Shixiong to request the host to select the play instead. What do you think?" Liangyu and Jingxing both said it was a very good idea. Shi Xiangyun and Tan Chun also bluntly said, "Respect is better than refusal; the two of you should just follow Master's suggestion." |
| 22 | 黛玉就點了「卓文君臨筇當爐」、「司馬相如上殿奏賦」，寶釵就點了「李太白脫靴醉酒」。眾人齊聲說好。這班女孩子便扮上來。就這桂花香風裏，奏出一派笙歌女樂之音。一面叫芳官、藕官、齡官、蕊官周回勸酒。這三回戲文過了，又換了席面，大家論起《紅樓夢》來。 Lin Daiyu then selected "Zhuo Wenjun at the Bamboo Market" and "Sima Xiangru's Imperial Eulogy." Baochai chose "Li Bai Drunkenly Removes His Boots." Everyone present cheered in approval. The group of girls then took the stage to perform. Amidst the fragrant osmanthus breeze, a melody of flutes and songs from the female musicians filled the air. At the same time, they had Fangguan, Ouguan Lingguan, and Rui Guan go around serving wine. After the three plays were performed, they changed the table setting, and everyone began discussing Honglou Meng. |
| 23 | 姜景星說：「這兩部書是見過了，到底二位嫂子的批本沒有見，終是個缺典。」寶玉就道：「我們這兩部書，實在配得上玉茗堂，玉茗堂都有吳吳山夫婦合評，惹人議論。不要這二婦合評的《紅樓夢》出去，也要惹人家的議論來。」姜景星道：「這個哪裏比得。」寶玉道：「就把這箇圈點的本兒傳出去也罷了。」史湘雲也笑道：「這兩部書不用說是好得很了。只是我是個世外的人，配不得在這裡頭，亦且我只是無掛無牽的靜坐靜坐，也不好說得那麼樣，倒像是有什麼道理的。」史湘雲說這兩句，倒惹得寶玉走出席來，到湘雲席上，打恭作揖，求她變箇戲法兒玩玩。湘雲笑笑道：「你不要叫老先生又編進《紅樓夢》裏去呢。」 Jiang Jingxing said, "We have seen the two books, but we still haven't had a chance to see the annotated editions by the two sisters. That is truly an omission." Bao Yu said, "Our two books are truly worthy of the Yuming Tang collection. Even there, they have joint annotations by Wu Wushan and his wife, which has caused much discussion among people." "If these two annotated editions of Honglou Meng by the women are published, they will surely also provoke discussion from others." Jiang Jingxing said, "How could that possibly be compared?" Bao Yu replied, "Then let this annotated edition go out as well." Shi Xiangyun also smiled and said, "Needless to say, these two books are already very good. "I am just an outsider, and I do not belong in this world. Moreover, I prefer to sit quietly without any attachments or concerns. It would be improper for me to say much about it, as if there were some great wisdom behind it." After Shi Xiangyun said these two sentences, it actually prompted Bao Yu to step out of his seat and go over to her table, where he bowed respectfully and asked her to perform a little magic trick for fun. Xiangyun smiled and said, "Don't make the old gentleman write me into Honglou Meng again." |
| 24 | 眾人都同聲地求。湘雲道：「罷了。就取一盆菊花，采一枝桂花過來。」當下就取了兩樣花過來。湘雲就叫翠縷送過翡翠小杯兒，摘下六朵菊花圓擺在桌子上，將小杯放在中間，斟滿酒，那六朵菊花就捧著這杯酒飛到曹雪芹面前。眾人喜極了。曹雪芹只得飲乾。翠縷又將這枝桂花撲一下，只見平空落下無數桂花來，這些桂花就從湘雲席上起，直到曹雪芹席上，倒合了一片桂花橋，這小杯兒就骨碌碌地從桂花橋上滾過去。湘雲斟了酒，那杯酒又從花橋上，一步一步地走過來。眾人益發奇絕了。曹雪芹也便喝乾，站起來拱謝道：「一生一世，第一回吃這個仙賜酒。」那菊花桂花依舊的上了花枝了。合座無不稱奇，重新坐下。原來湘雲的丫頭也有這等道術。黛玉就說道：「今日這個雅集，也算是古今第一了。昨日戲班裏送上許多新戲的曲本來，好的也有，內有一部《碧落緣》，是南邊一位名公新製的，填詞兒直到元人高妙處。這些班兒裏通沒有唱出來，倒是咱們這些女孩兒學會了。今日且摘錦做幾折好不好？」 Everyone present echoed their request. Xiangyun said, "Alright." She then took a pot of chrysanthemums and picked over a branch of osmanthus. At once, she brought the two kinds of flowers over. Xiangyun then ordered Cuilu to bring over a small emerald cup, plucked six chrysanthemum flowers and arranged them in a circle on the table. She placed the small cup at the center, filled it with wine, and suddenly the six chrysanthemums lifted the cup of wine and flew right up to Cao Xueqin's face. Everyone was overjoyed. Cao Xueqin had no choice but to drink it all. Cuilu then gave the osmanthus branch a quick flick. Suddenly, countless osmanthus blossoms fell from midair, forming an osmanthus bridge that stretched from Xiangyun's table all the way to Cao Xueqin's table. The small cup rolled merrily along this floral bridge. Xiangyun poured some wine, and the cup of wine then moved step by step across the flower bridge toward them. Everyone was even more amazed. Cao Xueqin drank it all, then stood up and bowed in gratitude, saying, "This is the first time in my entire life that I have tasted this divine wine." The chrysanthemums and osmanthus blossoms returned to their branches as before. Everyone at the gathering marveled without exception, then sat down again. It turned out that Xiangyun's maidservant also possessed such magical skills. Lin Daiyu then said, "Today's elegant gathering can truly be considered the finest of all time." "Yesterday, the theater troupe sent over many new play scripts. Some were good, and among them was a work called Bi Luo Yuan. It is newly composed by a famous scholar from the south, whose lyrics reach the excellence of those from the Yuan dynasty." "These theater troupes have not performed it at all; instead, we girls here have learned it." "Shall we perform a few acts of it today?" |
| 25 | 合座都說好。文官等就扮出來。這芳官羞羞澀澀扮這個蘭芝，十分摹神。曹雪芹賞得了不得。又說果真是才人之筆，沒有一點子俗筆兒。正演到關目之處，恰好一輪月亮，在東山側首桂花叢裏湧將上來，照耀得香雪有光，只覺得萬團金粟迷離，一派仙音嘹亮。曹雪芹、寶玉、良玉、景星反又出席，走到山子上的亭子內遠望遠聽了，重新踏月回來，穿過竹橋，入閣上座。林黛玉又親自上來斟了酒。雪芹只得也托寶玉請過杯來斟了，托寶玉送過去。李紈、史湘雲、探春等又叫丫頭斟上酒來。姜景星、林良玉、寶玉、蘭哥兒也陪著喝。這曹雪芹本來有限，到了開懷時候倒不甚醉。黛玉便道：「今日先生光臨，咱們也邀幸得很，可好請先生留題一詩，以記雅集？」雪芹道：「珠玉在前，哪裏獻得醜。」寶釵笑道：「一總算來通是門下，先生謙得太過些。」姜景星道：「不如請先生起句，大家聯吟一章，雖則勉步後塵，也算珠聯璧合。」雪芹笑道：「這只好諸公諧夫人聯吟記盛，弟只好做一箇執筆抄胥。」 Everyone at the gathering agreed that it was a good idea. Wen Guan and others then took on their roles and performed. Fangguan, blushing with shyness as she played the role of Lan Zhi, portrayed it with extraordinary lifelike skill. Cao Xueqin was extremely pleased and gave lavish praise. He also remarked that it was indeed the work of a talented writer, with not even the slightest touch of vulgar writing. Just as the performance reached a crucial moment, by coincidence, a full moon rose from among the osmanthus grove on the side of East Mountain. Its light illuminated the fragrant snow with brilliance, making one feel surrounded by countless golden grains in a hazy glow and filled with clear, ethereal music. Cao Xueqin, Bao Yu, Liangyu, and Jingxing rose from their seats once more, walked to the pavilion on top of the hill to gaze into the distance and listen attentively. Afterward, they returned under the moonlight, crossed the bamboo bridge, and reentered the pavilion to resume their seats. Lin Daiyu personally came over again to pour wine for them. Xueqin had no choice but also to ask Bao Yu to bring a cup, poured the wine himself, and then asked Bao Yu to pass it over. Li Wan, Shi Xiangyun, Tan Chun, and others called their maidservants to pour more wine for everyone. Jiang Jingxing, Lin Liangyu, Bao Yu, and Lange also joined in drinking along with them. Cao Xueqin originally had a low tolerance for alcohol, but when he was in high spirits, he did not get very drunk. Lin Daiyu then said, "Today is a great honor to have the master here. We are truly fortunate. Would it be acceptable if we asked you to compose a poem as a memento of this elegant gathering?" Xueqin replied, "With such gems already present, how could I dare to offer my humble work." Baochai smiled and said, "Considering we are all your students in a way, the master is being too modest." Jiang Jingxing said, "Why not let the master start with a line and we all join in to compose a collaborative poem? Though it may be an effort to follow in your footsteps, it will still make for a harmonious combination of talents." Xueqin smiled and said, "Then it would be best for all of you gentlemen and ladies to collaborate in composing a poem to record this occasion. I shall merely serve as the scribe." |
| 26 | 寶玉笑道：「一則統是門人，二則統是通家世好，先生灑脫異常，還拘著這個。先生若果真不棄，就請起句，叫蘭侄兒在旁謄清。」雪芹笑道：「弟也不敢辭讓，只是咱們今日雅集，千古所無，就聯起句來，也不要拘著舊套。只是各人適意愛吟的便吟，次序也不拘，長短多少也不拘，就謄清的也照著各人吟的句子注出名號。要住便住，也不拘定多少韻數，直做到天風琅琅，海山蒼蒼，纔有個興會。」林良玉笑道：「這就更妙了。」黛玉便叫女樂暫歇，將一個嵌玉的香楠木雕西番蓮的茶几，放了文房四寶，移近蘭哥兒。蘭哥兒就蘸了墨等著。雪芹便吟道：金陵佳氣繞鐘山。鳳舞鸞騫上玉關。五等冠僚聯賜宅，三司掌典領朝班。世家喬木青雲地，累將重侯書傳記。景星吟道：繡閣金屏戚誼尊，龍樓月殿家人侍。寶玉道：天恩祖德日方中，彝訓清嚴教孝忠。共愛薄昭持謹恕，更推郭況守謙恭。雪芹先說：「好！」眾人皆點頭。曹雪芹吟道：祖宗功德留青史，柱下官應載終始。為檢香奩快綠紅，特將煙素摹蘭芷。黛玉道：「好個轉關領袖。」寶釵道：「題得逼清了。」林良玉道：一叢祺燕有通靈，景星笑一笑道：寶黛雙來扣玉聲。眾人都說好句。黛玉道：「姊妹很多，咱們大家敘進去。」就吟道：姊妹滿堂歡畫錦，環瑤接葉吐琪英。喜鳳笑道：外家兩兩團團喜，喜是甥兒及姨子。香菱道：暖翠曾攜思遠親，談詩更得康成婢。大觀園內聚金釵，寶釵道：風月看來分外佳。雪芹道：「便要渾融跳脫的過去才好。」 Bao Yu smiled and said, "First of all, we are all your disciples; secondly, we have long been close friends across generations. The master is usually so free-spirited—why still be bound by such formalities?" "If the master truly does not mind, please begin with a line. Let my nephew Lan copy it down on the side." Xueqin smiled and replied, "I would not dare to refuse. However, since our gathering today is one of a kind in history, when we compose together, let us not be bound by old conventions." "Just let each person recite whatever they feel like, without being restricted by order. The length and number of lines do not matter either. When copying them down, simply note the names next to each line as they were recited." "If anyone wishes to stop, they may do so freely. There is no need to fix the number of rhymes. Only when we reach a point where the wind sings and the sea mountains turn dark will there truly be a sense of inspiration." Lin Liangyu smiled and said, "This is even better." Lin Daiyu then asked the female musicians to take a brief rest. She brought forward an inlaid jade, fragrant nanmu wood table carved with western lotus patterns, placed the four treasures of the study on it, and moved it closer to Lan Geer. Lan Geer dipped his brush in ink and waited. Xueqin began reciting, "The auspicious aura of Jinling surrounds Zhongshan Mountain." "Phoenixes dance and鸾 birds soar toward the Jade Pass above." "The five ranks of officials and their attendants gather at the bestowed residence; the three departments oversee the imperial court's order." "From noble families, tall trees reach into the blue sky; generations of marquises and dukes have left their names in historical records." Jingxing recited, "Brocade pavilions and golden screens honor the noble kinship; dragons' towers and moon palaces are served by family attendants." Bao Yu recited, "Heaven's grace and ancestral virtue shine at midday; the teachings of filial piety and loyalty are clear and strict." "Together we cherish Bo Zhao's prudence and tolerance, and further emulate Guo Kuang in upholding humility and respect." Xueqin first said, "Excellent!" Everyone nodded in agreement. Cao Xueqin recited, "The virtues and achievements of ancestors remain recorded in history; the officials under the pillars should be inscribed from beginning to end." "To examine the fragrant casket and swiftly distinguish green from red, I especially depict the orchid and sweet flag in plain ink." Lin Daiyu said, "What a fine transition and leadership in this verse." Baochai remarked, "The theme is clearly and vividly captured." Lin Liangyu recited: "A cluster of auspicious swallows possesses spiritual connection." Jingxing smiled and added, "Bao and Dai arrive together, their jade pendants ringing in harmony." Everyone praised the lines as excellent. Lin Daiyu said, "There are many sisters here; let us all continue composing together." She then recited: "Sisters fill the hall, joyfully painting brocade; jade rings and leaves connect, blooming with rare blossoms." Xifeng smiled and recited: "From the maternal side, two by two, joy is gathered in a circle; this joy comes from nieces and cousins." Xiangling recited: "In warm greenery, I once carried thoughts of distant kin; in discussing poetry, I gained the help of Kangcheng's maid." Within Daguayuan gathered golden hairpins. Baochai recited: "The wind and moon appear especially beautiful." Xueqin said, "It would be best if the verses could flow seamlessly and break free from constraints." |
| 27 | 便道：忽有盛衰吟草露，暫時閒冷落秋槐。盛衰轉眼衰還盛，玉返珠還兩相映。寶玉道：豆蔻棚前宵露零，牡丹亭上春風病。春病誰憐憶死生，湘雲笑道：再來人想掃花行。天上真妃親詔冊，人間嘉偶始完盟。眾人都笑了，黛玉倒害起臊來。雪芹道：內遷供奉神仙客，宣出金閨到前席。景星道：香象蟠霞燦筆花，金鱗躍浪舒雲融。天情寵拔冠詞臣，御賜青雲滿後塵。前輩愧慚輸後進，小名呼喚侍雙親。寶玉笑道：「這個如何當得。」 He then recited: "Suddenly, the grass dew sings of prosperity and decline; for now, it is idle and cold under the autumn sophora." "Prosperity and decline turn in a blink—decline returns to prosperity. Jade returns, pearls return, shining upon each other." Bao Yu recited: "Before the kapok trellis, night dew falls; on the peony pavilion, spring wind brings illness." "Who pities this spring sickness and remembers life and death?" Shi Xiangyun smiled and recited: "When people return, they will wish to sweep the flower paths once more." "Heavenly true consorts receive imperial decrees; on earth, a happy couple finally fulfills their vows." Everyone laughed. Lin Daiyu blushed with embarrassment. Xueqin recited: "Internally, attendants serve the immortal guests; they are summoned from golden chambers to the front seats." Jingxing recited: "Fragrant elephants coil through rosy clouds, radiant with poetic blossoms; golden scales leap over waves, spreading and blending into the clouds." "Heavenly favor bestows honor upon officials and ministers; imperial grants of blue clouds fill the path behind them." "Senior scholars feel ashamed to fall short of younger talents; they serve their parents with affection, calling each other by their childhood names." Bao Yu smiled and said, "How could I possibly deserve this?" |
| 28 | 雪芹道：「真好，我又要轉關敘事了。」就道：榮禧堂上光華滿，兩度雲鑾迓星罕。熏風殿裏論丹青，鳳藻宮中奏笙印１︻蔚潰骸陡瘃》雅樂敬傳宣，黛玉道：問省歸來月正圓。寶釵道：彩嬪分縑頒姊妹，昭儀引扇導嬋娟。湘雲道：佛堂香火仙因果，黛玉道：獨訪真人久聯坐。喜鸞道：觸到螟蛉負子心，偷彈珠淚蛾眉鎖。雪芹道：「往後弟效勞罷。」便道：鐘鳴鼎食盡繁昌，繫駟高門匯吉祥。火齊珊瑚堆檻下，繡鞍貂袖列墀旁。尚書亮弼司農政，益勵冰淵矢公正。瓜瓞增輝誥券家，蔦蘿並締金張姓。南國詞人袱硯來，獨教珠履許追陪。黛玉道：要將洛水陳思筆，歌舞觴前說善才。雪芹道：魏武子孫歷坎懍，不貌尋常貌仙品。繭紙新蠶紀艷多，魚箋春蚓言情甚。十年湖海賣文遊，吏隱而還屋打頭。陟屺再來依後乘，買湖竟許返而舟。西園文翰稱千古，絲繡誰如趙家工。祖餞何當玳瑁筵，聯吟請泐榮寧府。眾人齊聲說好得很了。又叫蘭哥兒念了一遍，說明日請先生的法書寫了，就這裡勒石。黛玉重新叫女樂演上戲文。到了戲完席散，那一個月亮冰也似的，恰恰的貼在天心。這些顧繡穿珠，貼絨貼墨明角玻璃內重新剪燭，真個花天月地瓊室瑤階。寶玉、良玉先上前來說明，老爺吩咐定要出差回來方肯餞別。曹雪芹本來要面別賈政，又是寶王、黛玉等如此款留，就一口承應，便說道：「不瞞列位說，在下若不因老母，也就不願南回，看得妻子真如敝屣。不要說錦繡叢中，日夜雅歌醇酒，只同諸兄在深山蕭寺，也可以相對忘年。」 Xueqin replied, "Truly excellent. Now I must shift the narrative once more." He continued: "The Guanghua Hall of Rongxi is radiant; twice, clouds and dragons welcome rare stars." "In the Xunfeng Palace, they discuss paintings; in Fengzao Palace, flutes and seals are played. The elegant music is respectfully transmitted," Lin Daiyu recited: "Upon returning from paying respects, the moon is full." Baochai recited: "Colorful consorts divide silks among sisters; Zhaoyi waves her fan to guide the graceful moon." Shi Xiangyun recited: "The incense and fire of the Buddhist hall reveal the karmic causes and effects of immortals." Lin Daiyu replied: "Alone, I visit the true sage, sitting in long companionship." Xiluan recited: "Touching upon the heart of a foster mother who bears her child, secretly shedding pearl-like tears behind locked brows." Xueqin said, "From now on, I shall serve as your assistant." He continued: "With bells ringing and tripod feasts in full prosperity, four horses tethered to high gates gather auspiciousness." "Red coral like fire piles beneath the railings; embroidered saddles and sable sleeves line the steps beside." "The Minister of Rites, loyal and wise, oversees agricultural policies, further encouraging impartiality like ice in deep waters." "Gourd vines add luster to the imperial decree and family honor; tendrils and ivy intertwine, binding the golden surname Zhang." "Southern literary men bring their inkstones to visit; only they are allowed to accompany with pearl-embroidered shoes in attendance." Lin Daiyu recited: "One must take the brush of Luoshui and Chen Si, singing and dancing before cups to speak of Shancai." Xueqin recited: "The descendants of Wei Wu have endured hardships and trials, not appearing ordinary but rather possessing the bearing of immortals." "Silk paper with new silkworms records many vivid tales; fish-patterned letters and spring eels express deep emotions." "For ten years, I wandered the lakes and seas selling my writings; returning as a hidden official, I find my house still waiting for me." "Zhiqi returns once more to rely on the following carriage; buying a lake, he is finally allowed to return in his boat." "The literary works of Xiyuan are praised for all time; who can rival the embroidery skills of the Zhao family?" "When will our ancestors host a banquet of tortoiseshell and mother-of-pearl, that we may recite together at the Rongning Mansion?" The crowd all cheered in unison, saying it was very good. They also had Lan Geer recite it once more, explaining that tomorrow they would have the master's calligraphy written and then inscribed here on stone. Lin Daiyu ordered the female musicians to perform a play again. When the performance ended and the banquet dispersed, that moon was as icy clear as ever, fittingly pasted right at the center of the sky. These attendants, with their embroidered robes and pearl-threaded garments, pasted velvet and ink onto horn glass windows as they trimmed the candles anew; truly it was a jade chamber and jadeflower steps beneath flowers and moonlight. Baoyu and Liangyu stepped forward first to explain that the master had ordered them not to be seen off until they returned from their official errand. Cao Xueqin had originally intended to bid farewell in person to Jia Zheng, but since Baowang, Daiyu and others insisted so warmly on keeping him, he readily agreed. He said: "I will not hide this from you all; were it not for my old mother, I would have no wish to return south, regarding wife and children as truly as worn-out shoes." "Let alone the brocade gardens, where day and night refined songs and fine wine are enjoyed; even if I were to stay in a quiet temple deep in the mountains with my elder brothers, we could still converse as equals beyond age." |
| 29 | 眾人皆謝了。黛玉、寶釵就捧了一只拜匣上來，貼一個紅簽，寫著：前後《紅樓夢》潤筆。雪芹揭開一看，只見老母家書就批在《紅樓夢》的首頁上。又是一箇折貼。便都開看了，約費有三四萬金，雪芹只得連說了幾個「當不起」，又笑首著打了恭，說替家母謝了厚贈。又說道：「我曹雪芹一輩子的牢騷鬱結，一會子通已掃除。憑著我將母閉關也好，憑著我遨遊天下名山也好，通是世兄兩位夫人所賜。」 Everyone thanked him. Lin Daiyu and Baochai then presented a casket, with a red tag attached that read: "Remuneration for the Preface and Postscript of Honglou Meng." Xueqin opened it to find his mother's letter written on the first page of Honglou Meng. It was another kind gesture. They all opened and examined it, estimating the value to be around thirty or forty thousand taels of gold. Xueqin could only say "I am unworthy" several times, then bowed with a smile, saying he would thank his mother on her behalf for such generous gifts. He added: "All the frustrations and sorrows of my life, Cao Xueqin, have been completely dispelled in an instant." "Whether it is because I kept my mother in seclusion or because I traveled and roamed the famous mountains of the world, all are gifts from you two madams." |
| 30 | 姜景星又送了兩冊書目過來，說：「這是兄弟同良大哥存在南邊的書八千種，名畫古帖六百餘種，一總奉贈怡神。」 Jiang Jingxing also sent over two catalogues of books, saying: "These are eight thousand kinds of books and more than six hundred famous paintings and ancient calligraphy works that my younger brother and Liang Dage stored in the south; I present them all to you for your enjoyment." |
| 31 | 曹雪芹益發感謝。從古及今，做稗乘的獲報，哪有雪芹這樣便宜。真事真傳，休疑他一字假借。那些郊寒島瘦，枉自的苦吟覓句，苦過了一生。這裡眾人便一一散了。黛玉、寶釵猶恐雪芹醉了，就閣後先設了鋪，請雪芹安歇一宵。只叫寶玉抵足相陪，再著芳官、藕官、蕊官、齡官伺候著，彼此替曹太爺、寶二爺搥著腰兒腿兒。又吩咐老婆子小丫頭把各色燈點得通明，直到天亮。恐怕挑燈夜話，也叫柳嫂子過來伺候了半夜餐。這雪芹、寶玉真個餘興勃勃，又談論起《紅樓夢》來。彼時屏風後暖閣下，供著一大瓶桂花，擺著四大盆四季素心建蘭，又環繞些異種名菊。兩個人只由著女孩子搥腰腿，一面喝梅片茶兒。這曹雪芹只笑嘻嘻看著寶玉，待說不說的。寶玉盡著問他，雪芹笑道：「我而今各樣心事也完了，就將今日這番雅集歸結兩部《紅樓夢》，也便結得它住。承府上這番盛情，現有老母批在書上的家書，這就可以算做序文，我不必另為做序。只是總有一個缺陷在裏頭。為什麼呢，今日席上一十二位，恰是冊子上的十二釵，只借一位平姑娘在裡頭，也是前書內副冊上的。不過薛、林二位的評定我沒看見，不知道這前後兩部書的瑕瑜，所以我心裏只覺得缺了一件似的。」 Cao Xueqin was even more grateful. From ancient times to the present, among those who write minor histories or novels, who has ever received such generous rewards as Xueqin? True events and true transmission—do not doubt a single word is borrowed or false. Those who were as cold and thin as Jiao and Dao, vainly toiling over lines of poetry, suffering through their entire lives. At this point, the crowd gradually dispersed one by one. Lin Daiyu and Baochai were still afraid that Xueqin might get drunk, so they prepared a room in the pavilion first and invited Xueqin to rest for the night. They only asked Baoyu to sleep with his feet at the end of Xueqin's bed for company, and also had Fangguan, Ouguan, Ruiguan, and Lingguan in attendance, taking turns massaging the waist and legs of Master Cao and Second Master Bao. They also ordered the old women and young maids to light all kinds of lamps brightly, continuing until daylight. In case they talked into the night by lamplight, Liu Pozi was also sent over to serve a midnight meal for half the night. Xueqin and Baoyu were indeed full of enthusiasm, continuing to discuss Honglou Meng once more. At that time, behind the screen in a warm inner room, there was a large vase of osmanthus flowers on display, four large pots of plain-hearted Jianlan orchids for all seasons, and around them were various rare chrysanthemum varieties. The two men simply allowed the young girls to massage their waists and legs while drinking plum-leaf tea. Cao Xueqin only smiled happily at Baoyu, as if wanting to say something but holding back. Baoyu kept asking him, and Xueqin smiled and said: "Now that all my concerns are settled, I will conclude this elegant gathering today into two volumes of Honglou Meng, thus bringing it to a close." "I owe you all this warm hospitality. There is already a letter from my old mother written in the book, which can serve as an introduction; I need not write another preface." "But there is still one flaw within it." "Why? Today at the banquet there were twelve guests, exactly matching the Twelve Gold Locks in the register. Only one Ping girl was included among them, and she too is from the secondary register of the earlier book." "I have not seen evaluations from Xue and Lin, so I do not know the merits and flaws of these two volumes. Therefore, in my heart, it feels as if something is missing." |
| 32 | 寶玉也盡著笑，不言語。雪芹盡著問他，寶玉笑道：「這兩部書還有什麼說，說不好的便也由他，說好的也說不出怎樣的好，難道他們姊妹兩個，當真的還贊得上來。不過林妹妹說，這兩部書妙是妙極的了。若果真的要結住它，總要依她這個，寶姐姐也服她，我也很服。」 Baoyu smiled but said nothing. Xueqin kept asking him, and Baoyu smiled and said: "What more can be said about these two books? If people say they are bad, let them; if they praise them, they cannot really express how good they are. Are the two sisters truly able to give such praise?" "Only Lin Meimei said these two books were wonderful beyond words." "If one really wants to conclude it, they must follow her opinion. Baojiejie agrees with her, and I agree as well." |
| 33 | 曹雪芹又拉住了緊問，寶玉總笑著不肯說出來，推了一會，寶玉道：「她說老先生果真地依了她，這樣結束，天下後世人還要批兩句，曲終人不見，江上數峰青呢。」曹雪芹急了就趕過來作一揖道：「好世兄，如果一定該應那樣的結束，我就一字不改，依著便了。」 Cao Xueqin pulled him again and pressed for more details, but Baoyu kept smiling and refused to say. After a while of pushing back and forth, Baoyu said: "She said that if the old master truly followed her suggestion in this conclusion, people from all generations would still comment on it with two lines: 'The music ends and the person is gone; several green peaks remain over the river.'" Cao Xueqin became anxious and hurried over to bow respectfully, saying: "Dear elder brother, if it is indeed supposed to end in that way, I shall not change a single word and will follow her suggestion." |
| 34 | 寶玉笑道：「她也沒有續上什麼，只寫兩句現成話兒，就在那踏青掃墓一回上寫了兩句。」雪芹央及寶玉道：「好世兄，既這麼著，你倒不要說，你快快地去拿來給我自己瞧一瞧。」寶玉笑了笑，就走進去，悄悄地瞞了黛玉偷將出來。曹雪芹大喜。寶玉笑道：「老先生，咱們不許瞧第二頁講明了再拿出來。」曹雪芹道：「一定的，斷不相欺的。」寶玉方才拿出這一冊，揭開這一頁來。曹雪芹方纔認得林黛玉的真跡。小行楷的，其千嬌百媚，從王獻之十三行中出來。曹雪芹揩了揩眼睛，攜近燭光看得親切。只見寫一行道：「杯酒自澆蘇小墓，可知妾是意中人」。又另起一行寫道：「人間亦有癡於我，豈獨傷心是小青。」 Baoyu smiled and said: "She did not add any continuation, only writing two ready-made lines in the chapter about spring outings and tomb sweeping." Xueqin pleaded with Baoyu: "Dear elder brother, since it is like this, you need not say anything. Please go quickly and bring them for me to see myself." Baoyu smiled, then went in and secretly took it out without telling Daiyu. Cao Xueqin rejoiced greatly. Baoyu smiled and said: "Master, we must not look at the second page first; it is clearly explained that you should take it out only after reading." Cao Xueqin replied: "Of course, I will not deceive you in the slightest." Only then did Baoyu take out this volume and open to that page. Cao Xueqin finally recognized Lin Daiyu's genuine handwriting. It was written in small running script, full of grace and charm, clearly derived from Wang Xianzhi's thirteen lines. Cao Xueqin wiped his eyes and held the candlelight close to examine it carefully. He saw a line written: "A cup of wine poured at Su Xiao's tomb, knowing that I am the one in his heart." Then, on another line it read: "There are also those more foolish than I in this world; why should Xiaoqing alone be the one who grieves?" |
URN: ctp:ws314598
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