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《第十七回 林良玉孝友讓家財 賈喜鸞殷勤聯怨偶 Chapter 17: Lin Liangyu Filial Devotion Let Home Wealth, Jia Xiluan Diligent Connect Grudge Match》[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  | 第十七回 林良玉孝友讓家財 賈喜鸞殷勤聯怨偶 Chapter Seventeen: Lin Liangyu's Filial Piety and Kindness in Yielding Family Wealth; Jia Xiluan Diligently Unites a Lamenting Couple |
| 2 | 話說焦大正將趙全打罵，眾人聽見賈政回來，連忙勸他。焦大性起了，如何攔得住，幸虧賈政到林良玉、姜景星那邊去了。這裏焦大直打得滿心足意，方纔肯饒了他，就放下鞭子，一直地大罵去了。眾人便拉趙全出去，趙全卻久仰著賈政的仁慈，拉定欄桿，定要候賈政回來見一回。眾人見他打得可憐的，也就由他，只叫他端整了衣帽兒，跪在院子裏等候。王夫人等就笑嘻嘻地進去了。不多一會，賈政回來，趙全連忙磕頭。賈政連忙一手拉了他起來，說道：「趙老哥，你的不是呢原也不小，虧得天恩高厚，發到這裏來，到底是個舊同寅兒，我怎麼肯慢你。況且咱們自從祖宗下來，從沒敢刻薄待人。你往後再不要這樣，咱們大家侍候主子，當今聖上就是一個天，大家戴著天，拿出個良心就好。你往後只要自怨自艾，做過堂官的人怕沒有個棄瑕錄用的分兒？我本要留你在府中做個朋友，但是朝廷家的規矩，不敢不欽遵。我且檢一個小莊，請你住去。你也是得了大不是的人，查抄過的人，家口沒有養活，一起兒同去也好。咱們見了面，就請吧。」 As Jiao Da was beating and scolding Zhao Quan, the crowd, upon hearing that Jia Zheng had returned, hurriedly tried to dissuade him. Jiao Da was in a rage; how could anyone stop him? Fortunately, Jia Zheng had gone to visit Lin Liangyu and Jiang Jingxing. Jiao Da beat him to his heart's content before finally sparing Zhao Quan. He then dropped the whip and went off cursing loudly. The crowd then pulled Zhao Quan out, but Zhao Quan had long heard of Jia Zheng's kindness. He gripped the railing firmly and insisted on waiting for Jia Zheng to return so he could meet him once. Seeing how pitiful Zhao Quan looked after being beaten, the crowd let him be. They only told him to tidy up his clothes and hat and kneel in the courtyard waiting. Madam Wang and others then went inside with smiles on their faces. Not long after, Jia Zheng returned, and Zhao Quan hurriedly kowtowed. Jia Zheng quickly pulled him up by hand and said, "Old Brother Zhao, your fault was indeed not small. It is only due to Heaven's great kindness that you were sent here; after all, we are old colleagues. How could I possibly treat you with disrespect?" Moreover, since our ancestors, we have never dared to be unkind to others. "You must not behave this way again in the future. We all serve our master; His Majesty, the current Emperor, is like Heaven itself. Everyone wears Heaven above them—just show a bit of conscience." "As long as you reflect on your own faults in the future, would there not be a chance for someone who has served as an official to be forgiven and reemployed?" "I originally wanted to keep you in the mansion as a friend, but I dare not fail to strictly follow the rules of the imperial court." "I will now find a small estate and invite you to live there." "You are also someone who has committed serious faults. Those who have been investigated and confiscated of their property, if they lack means to support their family, it would be good for them all to go together." "We will invite you as soon as we meet." |
| 3 | 這趙全要見賈政，只望免了他服侍焦大，誰知賈政倒反這樣施恩，想起從前自己來查抄賈政的光景，真個愧也愧死，只得再爬下去磕頭。賈政就吩咐賈璉，安頓他去了。賈政一直進來，看見王夫人眾人都在那裏，也將趙全的事說了一遍，說道：「咱們世代忠厚人家，時刻留些有餘，還恐怕天恩祖德承載不起。大家伺候過老太太，想著老太太怎麼樣的仁慈，咱們敢忘記了？」 Zhao Quan wanted to see Jia Zheng merely hoping to be exempted from serving Jiao Da. Little did he know that Jia Zheng was actually bestowing such kindness upon him. Thinking back on how he had previously come to investigate and confiscate Jia Zheng's property, Zhao Quan felt deeply ashamed; there was no way he could bear it, so he knelt down again and kowtowed repeatedly. Jia Zheng then gave instructions to Jia Lian to settle him in properly. Jia Zheng came in directly and saw that Madam Wang and the others were there. He recounted the matter of Zhao Quan, saying, "We are a family known for generations for our loyalty and sincerity; we always leave some surplus at all times, still fearing we may not be worthy to bear Heaven's grace or our ancestors' virtue." "Everyone has served Old Madam; thinking of how kind and compassionate she was, could we ever dare to forget?" |
| 4 | 王夫人眾人無不歎服。賈政又說起：「下朝回來，姜姑爺約我過去，我也不知什麼事情，到了那邊，纔曉得良玉外甥這番古道，然而所說的話也太過了，卻也斷斷不能依他，就是中間人的話兒，也決然不能從命。」 Madam Wang and the others all sighed in admiration. Jia Zheng also mentioned, "After returning from court, Jiang Gegu invited me over. I did not know what it was about. When I arrived there, I learned of Lin Liangyu's nephew's old-fashioned virtue; however, the things he said were excessive. I could by no means agree to them, and even the words of a go-between would certainly not be followed." |
| 5 | 王夫人便問：「說的什麼話兒？」 Madam Wang then asked, "What did he say?" |
| 6 | 賈政就將林良玉話說出來道：「從小兒父母雙亡，毫無家業，全虧這邊父母血抱成人，現在這些產業家人統是這邊父母遺下來的。他而今已經得了官，除現在房屋及彀溝里外，全數要讓與他的妹子，苦死苦活罰神賭咒地求我做主。姜、曹諸公見我惱怒起來，再三地說，兄妹二人各分一半，全了他的孝友至情。林外甥還不依，說我們果真不依，他就賭下誓，要掛冠而逃的。我也十分敬他，也說不出什麼樣的話。停一會子，他們還要過來，這便怎樣？甥女也在這裏，這便怎麼樣的調停？」 Jia Zheng then recounted Lin Liangyu's words, saying, "Since childhood, my parents passed away and I had no family estate at all. It was entirely due to this couple's parents who raised me with their blood and sweat. Now, these properties and servants are all left by this couple's parents." "Now that he has already obtained an official post, except for the current house and Gou Gou Li, he wants to give all of it to his sister. He begged me desperately, swearing by gods and making vows, to take charge." Jiang, Cao and the other officials saw that I was becoming angry. They repeatedly suggested that the two siblings divide everything equally in order to fulfill his filial piety and kindness. Lin's nephew still refused, saying that if we truly did not agree, he would swear an oath and even resign from office to escape. I deeply respect him as well, but I could not find the right words to say. After a while, they will come over again—what should we do then? "His niece is also here. How shall we mediate this?" |
| 7 | 王夫人也說：「果其太過了，真個中間人說的也就過分得很。」 Madam Wang also said, "Indeed, he has gone too far. The go-between's suggestion was really excessive." |
| 8 | 黛玉心裏卻已長久知道了，到這時候也不能說出一句話兒。為什麼呢？若說不依，就不知他哥哥的至性；若說依了，又不是賈政的意思，只管回不出。賈政道：「甥女，這件事情到底是你們兄妹的情分，你要好好地回他。」 In her heart, Daiyu had long known the situation; at this moment, however, she could not utter a single word. Why was that? If she said no, it would go against her brother's sincere nature; if she agreed, however, it was not in accordance with Jia Zheng's intention. She could only remain silent and give no reply. Jia Zheng said, "Niece, this matter is ultimately a matter of affection between your brother and sister. You must respond to him properly." |
| 9 | 黛玉就說出一番不亢不卑的話來，叫賈政以下人人敬服，沒有一個字兒好駁回她了。黛玉就說道：「論起來，哥哥這種苦情，中間人這番議論，也不便不依。無不過舅太爺、舅太太的性情只愛幫扶著人家，不要人家幫扶咱們，祖宗下來統是這麼樣的。但則哥哥的意思，卻不是單單地惦記渭陽，要想盡些心力。不過想到罔極無報之處，還留下甥女一個人兒，愛本及枝，出於至性，就算全數推讓，纔滿他的願兒，不過咱們沒有這個理便了。而今親友商勸各半均分，我們如再不依，就不算成人之美，愛人以德了。」 Daiyu then spoke a set of words that were neither arrogant nor servile, which earned the respect and admiration of everyone under Jia Zheng. Not a single word could be used to refute her. Daiyu said, "To speak objectively, my brother's hardship and the go-between's proposal are not something we can easily refuse." "After all, Uncle and Aunt have always been people who love to help others but do not want help from them. Since our ancestors, this has always been the case." "But my brother's intention is not merely to think of Wei Yang; he wants to exert all his efforts and care." "It is only because he feels there are things left unrepaid to his parents, and that you, the niece, remain alone. His love for the root extends to the branches; it comes from genuine affection. Even if he were to give everything away completely, it would satisfy his wish. However, we simply do not have a reason to do so." "Now that relatives and friends have advised for an equal division, if we still refuse to agree, it would not be helping others achieve goodness or showing kindness through virtue." |
| 10 | 黛玉不謙不讓，說得軒軒昂昂的。就賈政、王夫人心裏也道是的，不過賈政說一句：「這麼樣，我總不能擔承。」正在說著，喜鸞、喜鳳也就過來，外面林良玉、姜景星、曹雪芹也來了。為這一件足足的往來五六日，方才將各半之說說明，就選了好日子，送過冊籍來。總帳細帳倒有二十餘套，像一部大書。送過來的雙身家人，便是蔡良，算一總管事，其餘副管事九個人，單升管內外城各銀樓字號，相軍管南邊莊地買賣，汪福管湖、廣、川省的帳目，徐喜管浙、閩、廣東的帳目，周秀管河南、山、陝西的帳目，吳昌管天津、山東、淮揚的帳目，曹誠管鹽務貿易，卜勝管洋行貿易，蔣涵管各色衣飾行頭，帶管領班，餘外零星的執事也不計其數。這蔡良便有個王元的身分，統計一千萬有零。卻說襲人，自從到了林府，逐日間檢點尺頭衣服，照料各項成衣，又添了戲班裏的行頭，事情也盡煩著。又不能一直到喜鸞處回話，總要候蔡良家的示下兒，將來伺候黛玉受些折磨，不必說了。還聽說紫鵑、晴雯也收了，還要跟著她叫聲姑娘兒。這紫鵑老老實實的，只怕還有些舊姊妹的情分兒。唯獨晴雯，仇也深，嘴也利，性也剛，只好三零四碎受她的牽扳便了。想起從前自己的身分，原是寶釵以下第一個人兒。怎麼樣就錯了主意，跨出這個門，又走到別條路上去。不要說見不得寶玉，也沒有臉再見寶釵。我也錯了主意，已經這樣，何不搬到他州外府去了，偏生的被林府上千方百計弄了過來，弄到黛玉手裡。從前寶姑娘原也待的好，出來的時候，也是他娘兒兩個哄我出來。我若能跳到那邊去還好，若長久在黛玉身邊，那就罷了。襲人這些想頭，一日也想有百十遍，獨自一人的時候，眼淚兒也不知流了多少。這一日，一眾男婦家人過來，黛玉先叫往各處磕頭去。襲人見了寶釵，也硬硬咽咽說不出的苦，寶釵也盡著揉眼，說道：「你快快的去見你奶奶，等個空閒兒，咱們著實講講話。」 Daiyu spoke neither modestly nor yieldingly; she was composed and dignified in her manner. Even Jia Zheng and Madam Wang inwardly agreed, but Jia Zheng added, "Still, I cannot bear the responsibility for this." Just as they were speaking, Xiluan and Xifeng also arrived. Outside, Lin Liangyu, Jiang Jingxing, and Cao Xueqin had come as well. Because of this matter alone, there were back-and-forth discussions for five or six days before the idea of an equal division was finally clarified. A good day was then selected, and the records and documents were sent over. The main account books and detailed accounts alone totaled more than twenty sets, like a large book. The transferred staff members included Cai Liang, who was appointed as the chief steward. The other nine were deputy stewards: one oversaw silver shops in both inner and outer cities; Xiang Jun managed land transactions in the southern estates; Wang Fu handled accounts for Hubei, Guangdong, and Sichuan provinces; Xu Xi took charge of accounts from Zhejiang, Fujian, and Guangdong; Zhou Xiu was responsible for accounts from Henan, Shandong, and Shaanxi; Wu Chang managed accounts in Tianjin, Shandong, Huaiyang; Cao Cheng oversaw salt trade; Bu Sheng handled foreign trade; Jiang Han managed all kinds of clothing and accessories, including leading the wardrobe staff. In addition, there were countless other minor attendants. This Cai Liang had a status equivalent to Wang Yuan, with total assets amounting to over ten million. Meanwhile, Xi Ren, since arriving at Lin's mansion, had been checking daily the fabric and clothes, taking care of various ready-made garments, and also managing new costumes for the opera troupe. Her duties were quite burdensome. She could not directly report to Xiluan, but had to wait for instructions from Cai Liang's wife. Naturally, this meant that serving Daiyu would bring her some hardships and trials. She also heard that Zijuan and Qingwen had been taken in, and they would have to address her as "Miss" as well. Zijuan was honest and straightforward; she might still retain some affection from their past sisterly bond. Only Qingwen, however, was deeply resentful, sharp-tongued, and stubbornly strong-willed. One could only endure her petty provocations in bits and pieces. Thinking back on her former status, she had once been the most important person after Baochai. How could things have gone so wrong that she made a mistake in her decision, stepped out of this door, and ended up on an entirely different path? Not only was it unbearable to see Baoyu again, but she also had no face to meet Baochai once more. "I also made a wrong decision, and now that it has come to this, why not move to another prefecture or province? Yet I was somehow lured over by Lin's mansion through all sorts of means and ended up in Daiyu's hands." "In the past, Miss Bao was also kind to me. When I left, it was her and her mother who tricked me into coming out." "If only I could jump over to the other side, that would be fine. But if I have to stay by Daiyu's side for a long time, then it is all over." These thoughts of Xi Ren occurred hundreds of times a day. Whenever she was alone, tears unknowingly streamed down her face in great quantity. One day, a group of male and female servants came over, and Daiyu first ordered them to kowtow at various places. When Xi Ren saw Baochai, she choked back bitter words and could not express her pain. Baochai also rubbed her eyes repeatedly and said, "Go quickly to see your grandmother. When there is a moment of leisure, we will have a proper talk." |
| 11 | 襲人就同眾人過去了。那邊黛玉預先吩咐已定，拉定寶玉叫他會會襲人，偏是賈政叫寶玉去了。蔡良便傳出黛玉的話來：「男女家人分兩班進去，單是蔣奶奶末了一位替另進去。」 Xi Ren then went along with the others. On that side, Daiyu had already given prior instructions and insisted on summoning Baoyu to meet Xi Ren. Unfortunately, Jia Zheng summoned Baoyu away at the same time. Cai Liang then relayed Daiyu's instructions: "Male and female servants should be divided into two groups to enter separately, with Madam Jiang entering last as a special case." |
| 12 | 襲人便猜不出黛玉的什麼意思。襲人果真等候眾人見了出來，方纔進去。見了黛玉，方纔要跪下去，只見黛玉滿面笑容，攙了她的手再三拉住她，道：「從小兒的姊妹，你要這麼著我可惱，你不知道我的心裏頭很有你這個人兒。而今重新在一塊了，你不要生分了我。」 Xi Ren could not figure out what Daiyu meant by this. As expected, Xi Ren waited until the others had come out after their audience before entering herself. When she saw Daiyu, Xi Ren was about to kneel down when she saw that Daiyu's face was full of smiles. Daiyu took her hand and pulled her repeatedly, saying, "Since childhood, we were like sisters; if you act this way toward me, I will be angry. You don't know how much I value you in my heart." "Now that we are together again, do not become distant with me." |
| 13 | 襲人哪裏敢說出一聲。黛玉又笑吟吟地說道：「可曾有個孩子，就算不是個時候，也該有個信兒，小門小戶的人家也是要緊的呢。」 How could Xi Ren dare to utter a word? Daiyu then smiled and said, "Have you had a child? Even if it is not the right time, at least there should be some news. After all, even in small households, such matters are important." |
| 14 | 襲人只得赧赧地說道：「沒有。」黛玉又附到她耳邊，低低地笑道：「寶玉還要同你敘敘舊呢，你可也卻不得，可有個人兒防著些。」 Xi Ren could only blush and say hesitantly, "No." Daiyu then leaned close to her ear and whispered with a smile, "Baoyu still wants to catch up with you. You cannot refuse him; be sure there is someone watching over you." |
| 15 | 襲人越發羞得要不得，面上通紅了。黛玉就說：「素芳，請兩位姑娘過來，快些看看舊日姊妹。」 Xi Ren became even more embarrassed and her face turned completely red. Daiyu then said, "Sufang, please bring the two young ladies over and quickly take a look at your old sister." |
| 16 | 不時間紫鵑、晴雯也打扮了過來。襲人便叫：「姑娘」。她兩個卻也照舊的情分，姐姐長，姐姐短，說些想念的話兒。襲人正不知怎麼樣纔好，黛玉道：「襲人姐姐，你來的正好，你的為人兒才分兒，我也統知道。不要說寶玉的衣服照管得好，就是我的衣飾零碎也全個兒託你，要你檢點著，省得我操這個心。」 Not long after, Zijuan and Qingwen also came over, dressed up. Xi Ren then called out, "Miss." The two of them also treated her as before, calling her "older sister" this and that, exchanging words about their longing for each other. Xi Ren did not know how to respond when Daiyu said, "Aunt Xi Ren, you have come just in time. I am fully aware of your character and abilities." "Not only did you manage Baoyu's clothes well, but even my clothing and accessories are entirely entrusted to you. I want you to check them carefully so that I do not have to worry about it." |
| 17 | 就叫：「紫鵑妹妹，晴雯妹妹，把帳折兒、鎖鑰兒交給你襲人姐姐。」她兩個真個地送過來交代了。黛玉道：「我怕你往來不便，也替你收拾個房兒，若是你們的琪官兒放心，你也分幾天進來伴伴我。」又笑向紫鵑、晴雯道：「你們瞧著，寶玉一定還要鬧你們這個姐姐，敢則要央及琪官兒講個情兒。」兩個也笑了。黛玉道：「你們且同著襲人姐姐，認認她的公寓辦得好不好。」 She then called, "Younger sister Zijuan, younger sister Qingwen, hand over the account books and keys to Aunt Xi Ren." The two of them indeed came forward and handed everything over. Daiyu said, "I am afraid it will be inconvenient for you to come and go. I have also prepared a room for you. If your Qiguan is at ease, you may spend a few days here with me." She then smiled at Zijuan and Qingwen and said, "You see, Baoyu will certainly still make a fuss about this sister of yours. He might even have to ask Qiguan to plead on his behalf." The two also smiled. Daiyu said, "You go with Aunt Xi Ren and check whether her apartment is properly arranged." |
| 18 | 襲人遂到她們兩個房中，隨又兩個同了襲人到了襲人房中，只見這兩間房陳設一切與她兩個一樣的體面，也撥兩個丫頭全兒、簪兒，給她使喚著，而且紫鵑告訴她，同她們兩個一樣的，月錢每月十兩。襲人真個的喜出望外，就將這些帳折鎖鑰領過來，也檢點著房裡的東西。正在忙著，只見蔡良家的走進來，襲人連忙讓坐。蔡良家的悄悄告訴襲人道：「咱們姑娘有話吩咐你，說你呢，原是個舊人兒，姑娘也很抬舉。但只是要你眼睛裡算她一個主子，要你前前後後自己思量一番。又說你往後到上頭去回話，要斟酌些。又說寶二爺交給你，不要戲班裏引壞了。」又說：「大姑娘不托你別的話，只這幾句話，要你存神些。」 Xi Ren then went to the rooms of the two, and soon after, they accompanied her back to her own room. She found that everything in these two rooms was as elegant as theirs. Two maids, Quaner and Zaner, were also assigned to serve her, and Zijuan told her that she received the same monthly allowance—ten taels of silver per month—as the other two. Xi Ren was truly overjoyed and immediately took over these account books and keys, carefully checking the items in her room. While she was busy with this, Cai Liang's wife walked in, and Xi Ren hurriedly offered her a seat. Cai Liang's wife whispered to Xi Ren, "Our young lady has given instructions for you. She said that you are an old servant and that she treats you very highly." "But all she asks is that you regard her as your mistress in your eyes, and think carefully for yourself about everything before and after." She also said that when you go to report matters upstairs afterward, you must be careful and considerate. "She also mentioned that Baoyu is entrusted to your care, so do not let the opera troupe lead him astray." She also said, "The young lady did not entrust you with any other words—only these few sentences. You must keep them in mind and be attentive." |
| 19 | 襲人聽見了這番話，駭得魂都掉了，就暗泣起來，央及道：「好個蔡奶奶，姑娘的吩咐我一字字統記得，往後總求你老人家在姑娘跟前提拔我。不說姑娘是主子，便紫姑娘、晴姑娘兩位使著我，我也是個奴才。我盡知道走錯路來，算不得人兒。姑娘高著手，我便過得去，低著手，我就過不去。我往後要不拿出個良心，不要等姑娘氣惱，我也不得好死。總求你老人家慈悲，長久在姑娘前幫襯我，我也有孝順你老人家的情分。」 Xi Ren, upon hearing these words, was so startled that she felt her soul had left her body. She began to weep silently and pleaded, "Dear Madam Cai, I will remember every word the young lady said. In the future, please kindly recommend me to her." "Even if the young lady is not my mistress, as long as Miss Zi and Miss Qing use me, I am still a servant." "I fully understand that I have taken the wrong path and can no longer be considered a person of worth." "If the young lady lifts her hand high, I will get by; if she lowers it, I shall not pass through." "If in the future I do not show a good heart, I need not wait for the young lady to become angry—I shall not have a peaceful death." "I only beg you, kind old lady, to show mercy and continue supporting me in front of the young lady. I also have my own filial devotion toward you." |
| 20 | 蔡良家的就點著頭回話去了。從此襲人服侍黛玉一發小心盡職。王夫人、寶釵等見她相處得好，也說黛玉大方，此是後話。這一日寶玉見了賈政回來，也要見襲人，就走到黛玉處。恰好襲人在那裡，見了寶玉，就磕個頭。寶玉倒只嘻嘻地笑了一笑，沒有什麼問的。襲人不免走開去，十分不好意思。寶玉就到晴雯處拉了蔡良家的，細細問她，知道黛玉恩威並用的光景，明明地學著漢高祖接待九江王黥布的意思。重新走到黛玉房裏。這時候黛玉與寶玉已是敘舊論心，毫無嫌疑的了。天氣漸漸沉寒，兩個近著火爐說些舊話。黛玉道：「寶姐姐滿月後，你去也有限，只管的守著晴雯，晴雯也很嫌你鬧她，你今日務必到寶姐姐那邊去。寶姐姐呢，那裏存這個心，只怕上頭要說晴雯。你不依了我，我就惱，咱們一輩子不要講話。」 Madam Cailiang nodded her head and went off to report back. From then on, Xi Ren served Daiyu with even greater care and diligence. Lady Wang, Baochai, and others, seeing that they got along well together, also praised Daiyu for her generosity. This is a story to be told later. On this day, Baoyu returned home after seeing Jia Zheng and wished to see Xi Ren as well, so he went to Daiyu's quarters. Coincidentally, Xi Ren was there at the time; upon seeing Baoyu, she immediately kowtowed. Baoyu merely smiled and said nothing in particular. Xi Ren could not help but step aside, feeling very embarrassed. Baoyu then went to Qingwen's quarters and pulled Madam Cailiang aside, asking her in detail. He learned about the situation where Daiyu combined kindness with authority, clearly imitating the manner of Emperor Gaozu of Han receiving King Jianghuai Jing Bu. He then returned to Daiyu's room once more. At this time, Daiyu and Baoyu had already been exchanging old stories and confiding in each other's hearts, with no trace of suspicion or reserve. As the weather gradually grew colder, the two sat close to the brazier and spoke about old memories. Daiyu said, "After Baochai's full moon celebration, your visits will be limited. You have been clinging to Qingwen all the time, and now even Qingwen is annoyed by you. Today, you must go visit Baochai." "As for Baochai, she has no such intention at all; it is only that she fears someone upstairs might say something about Qingwen." "If you do not listen to me, I shall be angry and we will never speak again for the rest of our lives." |
| 21 | 寶玉笑嘻嘻地看了黛玉，又不忍違拗她，就便道：「是的了，你叫我去，我去就是了。」寶也也要將黛玉待襲人的話過去告訴寶釵，寶玉就往寶釵處去了。過幾天，一陣陣地刮起風雪來，雪霽了，越發的冷。襲人因是寶玉、黛玉更換些皮衣，便看著老婆子們曬晾著些衣服。就便走到院子裏，望著天說道：「只怕還有雪下呢，你們看天上雲頭兒亂得很，不知道東風西風。」 Baoyu smiled at Daiyu, then could not bear to refuse her. He said, "All right, if you want me to go, I will go." Baoyu also intended to tell Baochai about the way Daiyu had treated Xi Ren, so he went over to Baochai's quarters. A few days later, the wind and snow began to blow fiercely; after the snow cleared, it became even colder. Xi Ren, because Baoyu and Daiyu needed to exchange some fur coats, watched as the old women dried and aired out their clothes. She then walked into the courtyard and looked up at the sky, saying, "I am afraid there will be more snow. Look how chaotic the clouds are in the sky; we cannot tell whether it is an east wind or a west wind." |
| 22 | 黛玉也走出來，看看天說道：「不知東風壓了西風，西風壓了東風。只恰是上風兒壓著下風呢。」說著就帶了晴雯、素芳往寶釵處去了。襲人只一聲兒不言語，憶著從前打探的舊話兒。過幾日，漸漸近年起來。王夫人便與李紈商議道：「林姑娘與寶玉直到而今還沒有圓過房，到底不成事體。他們兩個也不生分了，悄悄地打聽，也有話有笑，沒個法兒勸回林姑娘。我瞧瞧憲書，今日很好。你可想出一個主意兒。」 Daiyu also came out and looked at the sky, saying, "I wonder whether it is the east wind that prevails over the west wind or vice versa." "It's just as if the upper wind suppresses the lower one," she added. As she spoke, she led Qingwen and Sufang to Baochai's residence. Xi Ren said not a word, silently recalling the old stories she had previously overheard. A few days later, it gradually approached New Year's time. Lady Wang then discussed with Li Wan, saying, "Miss Lin and Baoyu have not yet officially shared a room up to now; this is truly inappropriate." The two of them are no longer distant. When I secretly inquired, there were words and laughter; there is no way to persuade Miss Lin back." "I will check the calendar—today seems very auspicious." "Can you think of a plan?" |
| 23 | 李紈沉吟了一回，說道：「勸呢是不中用的，我們且請喜姑娘姊妹過來，大家商量。」 Li Wan pondered for a moment and said, "Persuading her is of no use. Let us first invite Miss Xiluan and the others over; we can discuss it together." |
| 24 | 王夫人也說好。就悄悄地接了她兩個過來，彼此商量，也都沒法。喜鸞忽然想起自己成親的那一晚，就笑將起來，道：「有了，咱們倒要哄著林姑娘，說寶哥哥今日往別人家去，晚上通不回來，咱們再想個法兒把林姑娘灌醉了，再等寶哥哥進房去，豈不好？」 Lady Wang also thought this was a good idea. They then quietly invited the two of them over, and after discussing among themselves, they all found no solution. Xiluan suddenly recalled the night of her own wedding and burst into laughter, saying, "I have an idea! Let us deceive Miss Lin by telling her that Baoyu will go to someone else's house today and won't return at all tonight. Then we can think of a way to get her drunk. Afterward, when Baoyu enters the room, wouldn't it be perfect?" |
| 25 | 探春、李紈都說好。王夫人便叫探春、李紈去教了寶玉。吩咐了外頭，就叫人請眾姊妹上來。黛玉、寶釵、邢岫煙、史湘雲、薛寶琴、李紈、李紋、李綺、探春、紫鵑、晴雯、平兒先後都到齊了，寶玉也上來。王夫人便喜喜歡歡地說道：「今日姜姊夫得了關東的異樣海鮮，叫鳳妹子帶過來，替咱們做個消寒會。姨媽不肯過來，已經送過去了。咱們今日且樂一樂，領鳳妹子的情兒。」 Tanchun and Li Wan both thought this was a good plan. Lady Wang then instructed Tanchun and Li Wan to go teach Baoyu. She gave instructions outside, then had someone summon the young ladies upstairs. Daiyu, Baochai, Xing Xiuyan, Shi Xiangyun, Xue Baoqin, Li Wan, Li Wen, Li Qi, Tanchun, Zijuan, Qingwen, Ping'er—all arrived one after another, and Baoyu also came upstairs. Lady Wang happily said, "Today, Uncle Jiang received some rare sea delicacies from the eastern frontier. He has asked Feng's younger sister to bring them over for us to hold a cold-weather gathering." "Auntie refused to come over, so they have already been sent here." "Let us enjoy ourselves today and appreciate Feng's kindness." |
| 26 | 喜鳳笑道：「沒有什麼好的，不過借景消寒罷了。」 Xifeng smiled and said, "There is nothing particularly good about it; we are merely using the scenery to pass away the cold weather." |
| 27 | 平兒道：「怕他們弄壞了，也曾告訴他們，老老實實的，原湯原水，就便攙和些什麼，也不許太翻新。」 Ping'er said, "I was afraid they might mess it up. I had already told them to be honest and stick strictly to the original broth and water. Even if they want to add something else, they must not get too creative." |
| 28 | 王夫人道：「真個兒的，這麼天氣，誰愛變什麼新樣兒，只要配的口就好。」眾人挨次地坐下，寶玉只說跟定了王夫人。王夫人也叫蘭哥兒過來。方纔上了幾色菜，都說收拾得配口。只見焙茗慌忙趕進來，說道：「老爺現在北靖王府里，說王爺請寶二爺、蘭哥兒馬上就過去。」 Lady Wang said, "Indeed, in such weather, who would want to try something new? As long as it tastes good, that is enough." Everyone sat down in order, and Baoyu insisted on staying close by Lady Wang's side. Lady Wang also called Lan Ge'er over. Just as several kinds of dishes were served, everyone praised them for being well-prepared and delicious. Just then, Beiming rushed in anxiously and said, "Master is now at the Bei Jing王府 (Bei Jing王府), saying that the Prince has requested Baoyu Er and Lan Ge'er to come immediately." |
| 29 | 王夫人問他：「為什麼事情？」 Lady Wang asked him, "What's this about?" |
| 30 | 焙茗道：「說是上了新戲。」寶玉跌著腳道：「我這裏正樂得很，誰愛著什麼新戲，蘭哥兒你去走走罷。你替我回明了，說我身上不大好。」王夫人也說：「很好。」 Beiming said, "They say there is a new opera being performed." Baoyu stamped his foot and said, "I am having a great time here. Who cares about some new opera? Lan Ge'er, you go ahead if you want to." "Go and explain for me that I am not feeling very well." Lady Wang also said, "That's fine." |
| 31 | 蘭哥兒正要起身，只見李瑤又上來回道：「老爺吩咐，說王爺的話叫寶二爺立刻就去，等著開戲，連蘭哥兒也一定得跟著，快走。」 Just as Lan Ge'er was about to get up, Li Yao came in and reported, "Master gave instructions saying the Prince insists that Baoyu Er must go immediately for the opera is about to start. Even Lan Ge'er must accompany him. Hurry up!" |
| 32 | 王夫人便說道：「真正的冤家，你老子這麼說，你知道他的性子，你快些走吧。到底這本戲文幾時纔完得了？」 Lady Wang then said, "Truly a troublemaker! Your father is speaking this way. You know his temper—go quickly." "But when will this opera finally end?" |
| 33 | 李瑤道：「老爺已打發人取了衣服去了，說是一夜呢。」 Li Yao said, "Master has already sent someone to fetch the clothes. He says it will last all night." |
| 34 | 黛玉就叫晴雯過去同著襲人收拾寶二爺晚上的衣服。晴雯答應著去了。王夫人益發喜歡。寶玉就假裝著怏怏地去了。這裏大家就行起打五更數月令的令來。眾人算計黛玉一個人，黛玉也不知她們的計較。還有喜鳳、寶釵、紫鵑陪著她喝到了更深，黛玉就醉得人事不知了。王夫人恐怕她著了風，就像小孩子似的遮著被，用椅子扶著抬著，自王夫人以下一總送她到瀟湘館來。寶玉歡喜得什麼似的，在那裏迎著。也悄悄地化了和會喜神，點著成雙畫燭，一進房來便是水安息香隔水溫著，香得恬靜幽堋Ｗ暇欏⑶璉、寶釵便悄悄替黛玉寬衣，輕輕地扶她睡下了。 Daiyu then called Qingwen over to help Xi Ren prepare Baoyu Er's clothes for the evening. Qingwen nodded in agreement and went away. Lady Wang was even more pleased. Baoyu then pretended to leave in a sullen mood. Meanwhile, everyone began playing the game of "Counting the Months at Five O'Clock." Everyone planned to target Daiyu alone, and Daiyu was unaware of their scheme. Xifeng, Baochai, Zijuan also accompanied her drinking until late at night, and Daiyu eventually became so drunk that she lost consciousness. Lady Wang, fearing that Daiyu might catch a chill, covered her with a blanket like a child and used chairs to support and carry her. Everyone from Lady Wang down accompanied her all the way back to Xiaoxiang Pavilion. Baoyu was overjoyed, waiting there to greet them as if nothing had happened. They also secretly prepared offerings to the god of happiness, lit pairs of painted candles, and as soon as they entered the room, there was water infused with anxiang fragrance gently warmed in a brazier. The scent filled the air with tranquility and elegance. Xifeng, Zijuan, and Baochai quietly helped Daiyu undress and gently supported her to lie down. |
| 35 | 王夫人等已經散去。寶玉送寶釵出來，寶釵將寶玉推進去，紫鵑便代寶玉送她回房。這一夜黛玉、寶玉的燕好，自不必說。也不知黛玉酒醒過來如何悔恨涕泣，寶玉如何央求。到底是天定姻緣，圓敘之後，自然相親相愛。 Lady Wang and the others had already dispersed. Baoyu saw Baochai out, but Baochai pushed him back inside. Zijuan then took Baoyu's place and accompanied her back to her room. Needless to say, that night brought a harmonious union between Daiyu and Baoyu. No one knew how deeply regretful and tearful Daiyu would become upon waking from her drunkenness, nor the extent of Baoyu's pleading. After all, it was a love destined by heaven; after their union, they naturally grew to cherish and love each other. |
| 36 | 到了第二日，黛玉怪不好意思的，害著臊，就不肯出來。王夫人告知賈政，也都喜歡。王夫人又為了她害臊，告訴姊妹們千萬不要取笑她。王夫人、李紈、寶釵、探春、惜春也天天過來，寶玉又天天晚上守著黛玉。黛玉也漸漸地大方起來，夫妻之間彼此敘舊談心，到也無嫌無忌。只是黛玉一生愛潔，立志修行，今遇了作合姻緣，若不能自行己意，也就落淚嘆氣，暗暗地慘傷。雖則寶玉十分體貼她，一時間哪能變她的冰霜本性，所以伉儷新諧，每每分衾對語，也是人人不肯相信的。 The next day, Daiyu felt very embarrassed and shy, so she refused to come out. Lady Wang informed Jia Zheng of the matter, and they were both delighted. Lady Wang also felt embarrassed for her and told the young ladies not to tease her at all. Lady Wang, Li Wan, Baochai, Tanchun, and Xichun also came over every day. Baoyu stayed by Daiyu's side night after night. Daiyu gradually became more at ease, and between husband and wife they exchanged old stories and confided in each other's hearts without any suspicion or restraint. Yet, as Daiyu had always cherished her purity and vowed to pursue spiritual cultivation, now that she was bound by this fated marriage, if she could not follow her own wishes, she would weep and sigh in secret sorrow. Although Baoyu was very considerate toward her, how could he change her icy and frosty nature in such a short time? Thus, though their marriage was harmonious, whenever they lay separately in bed and spoke to each other, it was something no one else would believe. |
| 37 | 卻說榮國府中，自從黛玉過門以後，賈璉也從容得十二分，不用說宿逋一清，也還顧得那府裏的用度。後來蔡良過門來了，賈璉有什麼商議倒反不回賈政，也不及回黛玉。倒是黛玉說：「璉二哥，有什麼支發，統問蔡良。」 Meanwhile, in the Rongguo Mansion, since Daiyu had married into the family, Jia Lian became twelve times more at ease. Not only were his outstanding debts cleared, but he was also able to manage the household expenses properly once again. Later, when Madam Cailiang married into the family, whenever Jia Lian had something to discuss, he no longer returned to consult with Jia Zheng or even Daiyu. Instead, it was Daiyu who said, "Elder Brother Lian, if there is anything to be spent or arranged, just ask Cailiang." |
| 38 | 以此將典出去的產業，也都恢復過來，榮國府依舊轟轟烈烈，倒是蔡良掌了個七八分主意。賈政開首也還分了房基公中，到後來看見大勢兒這麼樣了，也就由他。黛玉還更周到，打量著薛姨媽處艱難，也叫蔡良一樣地照應，所以王夫人、寶釵也十分的感激黛玉。這年過年，諸事一切闊大開張，竟同林家的豪富光景差不多兒。近年邊，一樣的祭宗祠、慶家宴，新正裡加倍地請年酒唱戲，說不盡的富貴風流，恰好當今採訪聲名，確見得賈政居官端方清正，就超升了少司寇之職。新年上又添了些賀喜的酒筵，真個錦上添花，福祿並集，合家大小不勝喜歡。一日早起，黛玉正在梳著頭，只見晴雯走進來，說一奇事，說是從前埋香塚上長起一棵樹來，一年來就長得很大了。眾人原也不認得它什麼樹，而今開出一種花，誰也認不出來。黛玉、寶玉便要去看。又有些小丫頭也進來說道：「實在的稀奇古怪，說是梅花也不是梅花，要算別的，算個什麼名兒，顏色還那樣好看。」 Because of this, the properties that had been mortgaged were all restored, and the Rongguo Mansion once again flourished with great vigor. In fact, Madam Cailiang took charge of about seven or eight parts of the decision-making. At first, Jia Zheng still divided up the family assets and shared them among the household. But later, seeing how things had turned out so well, he simply let her manage it as she wished. Daiyu was even more considerate. Observing that Auntie Xue's situation was difficult, she also instructed Cailiang to provide the same care and support. Thus, Lady Wang and Baochai were deeply grateful toward Daiyu. That year's New Year celebration was grand in every way, and the splendor of it was almost on par with that of the Lin family. In recent years, the family continued to hold ancestral rites and grand family banquets. During the first lunar month, they hosted even more lavish New Year feasts with operas performed in celebration—there was no end to their wealth and elegance. Just as the imperial court was investigating reputations at the time, it became clear that Jia Zheng had served his official duties uprightly and cleanly, so he was promoted directly to the position of Shaosi Kou (Minister of Punishment). More celebratory banquets were added for the New Year, truly adding flowers to brocade and bringing both fortune and blessings together. The entire family, young and old, could not contain their joy. One morning, as Daiyu was combing her hair, Qingwen walked in and told her a strange tale. She said that on the former Fragrant Burial Mound, a tree had grown up over the years and had become quite large by now. Originally, no one could identify what kind of tree it was; but now it had bloomed with a type of flower that nobody recognized. Daiyu and Baoyu immediately wanted to go see it for themselves. Some young maids also came in and said, "It's really strange and unusual. It isn't plum blossoms, but if it is something else, what name could we give it? The color is still very beautiful." |
| 39 | 黛玉、寶玉益發要緊去看。不知到底是什麼花兒，且聽下回分解。 Daiyu and Baoyu became even more eager to go see it. What kind of flower it was, however, will be revealed in the next chapter. |
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