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《第二十八回 林瀟湘邀玩春蘭月 賈喜鳳戲放仙蝶云 Chapter 28: Lin Xiaoxiang Invite Play Spring Orchid Moon, Jia Xifeng Play Release Immortal Butterfly Cloud》[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  | 第二十八回 林瀟湘邀玩春蘭月 賈喜鳳戲放仙蝶雲 Chapter Twenty-Eight: Lin Xiao Xiang Invites to Enjoy the Spring Orchid Month; Jia Xi Feng Plays with Releasing Fairy Butterfly Clouds |
| 2 | 話說李紈、寶釵、探春、平兒等因賈政、王夫人心裡不自然，做小輩的千思百想沒法說開，姊妹們一起商議，寶釵笑道：「我們各樣也想到了，到底要尋著林丫頭，她的巧勁兒很多，咱們只激著她，她一定的有什麼法兒。」 It was said that Li Wan, Baochai, Tanchun, Ping'er and others, because Jia Zheng and Madam Wang were feeling uneasy in their hearts, as the younger generation thought of a thousand things and a hundred thoughts but could not find a way to ease the situation. The sisters discussed together; Baochai smiled and said, "We have already considered many possibilities, but ultimately we must seek out Lin Yatou. She has many clever ideas, so if we just provoke her a little, she will certainly come up with some solution." |
| 3 | 李紈笑道：「她也巧極了，依我說倒不用激著她，她不吃這一箸。」 Li Wan smiled and said, "She is extremely clever. In my opinion, there's no need to provoke her; she won't fall for this trick." |
| 4 | 寶釵也笑著點點頭。大家就去問她。黛玉也猜著他們為這個來的，就笑道：「又來議事兒。」 Baochai also smiled and nodded slightly. Everyone then went to ask her. Daiyu also guessed that they had come for this reason, so she smiled and said, "You're here again to discuss matters." |
| 5 | 李紈笑道：「林丫頭，咱們也不激著你，到底你還有個算計兒，若是這箇上想不出方法來，也就不算林黛玉了。」 Li Wan smiled and said, "Lin Yatou, we won't provoke you. After all, you still have a plan in mind. If you can't think of a solution for this matter, then it wouldn't be Lin Daiyu anymore." |
| 6 | 黛玉笑道：「好一個不激著，告訴你知道，算你激了出來便了。」 Daiyu smiled and said, "A very good 'not provoking'—just let you know that it's as if you have provoked me into coming up with an idea." |
| 7 | 寶釵便坐下來問她。黛玉便道：「話是有句把中竅的話兒，單則是我只管上前也不像，這要用著寶姐姐。」 Baochai then sat down and asked her. Daiyu said, "There is a sentence or two of subtle advice. However, if I go forward alone, it would not look right; this requires Baojiejie to be involved." |
| 8 | 寶釵笑道：「聽憑諸葛孔明點將便了。」 Baochai smiled and said, "Then just let Zhuge Kongming assign the roles as he pleases." |
| 9 | 黛玉便道：「太太的話，老爺原也不能駁回他，老爺心裏頭只怕也有回味兒。老爺的話，太太也存著心，曲折講不出。咱們只就這上圓上來就完了。只說太太為的不見了久已查出來，原叫齊咱們三個上去說：『我一輩子惜穿惜戴，留一點子給環兒媳婦同蘭哥、芝哥媳婦，做個見面錢，不料的被他鬧殘了。要回老爺，打死了這箇沒媽的孩子，心裏也實在地疼，只好提醒些兒罷了。』這麼著講，怕的老爺不回心？」當下眾人一齊歎服。寶釵道：「為什麼用我呢？」 Daiyu then said, "Madam's words, the Master originally could not refuse. I think he must also be reflecting on them in his heart." 𝑙𝑜𝑎𝑑𝑖𝑛𝑔... The Master's words, Madam also has her thoughts but cannot express them clearly. We only need to smooth things over on this matter and that will be the end of it. It was only said that Madam, because the matter had long been investigated and found out, originally ordered all three of us to go up and say: "I have always cherished my clothes and ornaments throughout my life. I left a little for Huanyou's wife as well as Lan Ge and Zhi Ge's wives, just as a token when they first meet me. Unexpectedly, it was ruined by him." "I must report to the Master that this child without a mother was beaten to death. My heart truly aches, but I can only give some gentle reminders." "If we speak in this way, will the Master not reconsider?" At that moment, everyone sighed and admired her. Baochai said, "Why do you need me?" |
| 10 | 黛玉道：「大嫂子也近討媳婦了，怎麼說！我呢，怕老爺疑我打算出來的話兒；寶姐姐，你那芝哥還小著，你就說著，哪裏算得給媳婦子討見面錢。」眾人一齊說：「真個的賽過孔明了。」 Daiyu said, "Elder sister-in-law is also about to marry off a daughter-in-law. How could it not be relevant!" "As for me, I am afraid the Master might suspect that I have plans to bring this up. Baojiejie, your Zhi Ge is still young; you just say it was for giving a daughter-in-law some见面 money—how could that possibly count?" Everyone together said, "Truly, she surpasses Zhuge Liang." |
| 11 | 真箇寶釵遇了空閒，就依著她在賈政面前說了。賈政就只管點頭，一兩日間便不知不覺來親近王夫人。王夫人見賈政這樣，也就漸漸解釋，倒疑心誰人去說開了。悄悄去問寶釵，寶釵也不敢瞞，依直說了出來。王夫人樂得什麼似的。只道：「罷了，我的心坎兒都被林丫頭說穿了，咱們就同去瞧瞧她。」 Indeed, when Baochai had a moment of free time, she followed the plan and spoke before Jia Zheng. Jia Zheng merely nodded in agreement, and within a day or two, he gradually became close to Madam Wang without realizing it. Madam Wang, seeing Jia Zheng behave this way, gradually began to ease her mind and even suspected that someone had secretly smoothed things over. She quietly went to ask Baochai, who did not dare to hide the truth and told her directly. Madam Wang was overjoyed. She only said, "Enough! My innermost thoughts have been read by Lin Yatou. Let us all go and see her together." |
| 12 | 王夫人、寶釵就一同至瀟湘館來，同黛玉說笑了半日，只把黛玉喜歡得什麼似的。過一天，寶釵將王夫人喜歡的緣故告訴黛玉，便笑道：「也便一當兩等，上頭也同你釋然，卻也不是我編出來的。」黛玉也感謝寶釵不已。寶釵道：「上頭既這麼個意思，咱們做兒女的，盡著博他們喜歡纔好。你這幾日空閒，也上去得勤些。」 Madam Wang and Baochai then went together to Xiaoxiang Pavilion, where they spent the whole day chatting and laughing with Daiyu. It made Daiyu so happy that she was beside herself with joy. The next day, Baochai told Daiyu the reason why Madam Wang was so pleased. She smiled and said, "It's as if one action has two effects; those above have also become reconciled with you—yet it wasn't something I made up." Daiyu was also deeply grateful to Baochai. Baochai said, "Since those above have such intentions, as their children and grandchildren, we should do our best to please them." "You've had some free time these past few days; you might also visit more frequently." |
| 13 | 黛玉點點頭，真個跟了寶釵，約了眾姊妹不時上去，也玩玩牌兒，說說笑笑。王夫人便道：「為些不相干的事情，鬧過一冬，直到這個日子纔覺得清清淨淨的。你們大家也商議些玩兒的事情。」 Daiyu nodded, and indeed followed Baochai's advice. She arranged with the sisters to visit from time to time, playing cards and chatting merrily along the way. Madam Wang then said, "Because of some irrelevant matters, we had a disturbance all winter. It is only on this day that I feel truly peaceful and quiet." "You all should also discuss something fun to do." |
| 14 | 黛玉便說：「太太，愛什麼玩兒？」李紈道：「猜定是不愛瞧戲。」 Daiyu then asked, "Madam, what would you like to play?" Li Wan said, "I guess she definitely doesn't want to watch a play." |
| 15 | 王夫人道：「雖則這幾個女孩伶俐，實在的這個戲文也煩極了，就上了新戲也不愛瞧。」 Madam Wang said, "Although these young actresses are clever, the plays themselves are really too tedious. Even if new plays are performed, I don't feel like watching them." |
| 16 | 寶釵笑道：「咱們且商議定了，再來回複太太。」 Baochai smiled and said, "Let us first discuss and decide on something, then we will report back to Madam." |
| 17 | 眾人談了一會，就到寶釵處商議。原來是賈政吩咐過的，因為寶玉被僧道拐騙，故此僧道都不許到府。也為的馬道婆作怪，凡是三姑六婆不許上門。那鐵檻寺、散花寺、饅頭庵等處，雖則依了老太太時候的年例給他，這些內眷們，一概不許到庵觀寺廟去遊玩，只就大觀園裏憑她姊妹們玩兒。所以寶釵等商議，也只在園裏打算。大家商議起來，雅到種菊聯句，俗到割腥啖膻，連放風箏撲蝴蝶各色的玩兒都也玩過了，還剩下什麼來，若再重複起來，也沒有什麼情趣。探春道：「咱們不如大家鬥箇巧，各人堆一盆小花園，也有樹石亭榭，大家聚起來瞧的哪一個好。」 After chatting for a while, everyone went to Baochai's place to deliberate. Originally, it had been ordered by Jia Zheng because Baoyu had been deceived and led away by a monk and a Taoist. Therefore, no monks or Taoists were allowed to enter the estate. It was also because Ma Daopo had caused trouble; therefore, all kinds of female fortune-tellers and matchmakers—so-called "third aunts and sixth uncles"—were forbidden from entering the household. As for places like Tiekanshi Temple, Sanhua Temple, and Mantou Nunnery, although they still received their annual offerings according to the old custom of Lady Jia, these female relatives were strictly forbidden from visiting nunneries or temples for recreation. They could only play freely within the Grand View Garden among themselves. Therefore, Baochai and others deliberated that they would also plan activities entirely within the garden. Everyone discussed various possibilities, from refined activities like composing poetry while planting chrysanthemums to more common pastimes such as eating meat and dairy. Even things like flying kites or chasing butterflies had already been tried. What else was left? If they repeated the same things again, it would be without any interest or charm. Tanchun said, "Why don't we all compete in a clever contest? Each of us can build a small garden with miniature trees, rocks, pavilions, and terraces. Then we can gather together to see whose is the best." |
| 18 | 李紈笑道：「真是寶玉的妹妹，手指頭天天弄泥，好孩子氣。」寶釵道：「咱們各人選些列文出來，也分出各樣門類，合成一部書。」黛玉笑道：「這是他們翰林衙門纂修的差使。咱們常替寶玉當差，還鬧這個？寶姐姐真個倒道學先生，太文了。」 Li Wan smiled and said, "Truly a sister of Baoyu. Her fingers are always playing with dirt—so childish." Baochai said, "Let each of us select some literary works and categorize them into different types to compile a complete book." Daiyu smiled and said, "This is the kind of task that belongs to the Hanlin Academy officials." "We often take turns doing duties for Baoyu; are we going to stir up this sort of thing too?" "Baojiejie is truly acting like a Confucian scholar—too refined." |
| 19 | 李紈笑道：「我就派你獻一個不文不武的玩兒上來。說得不好，咱們大家批評她。」黛玉笑道：「依著我，趁這個正二月天氣，大家種些蘭花。」寶釵、探春、薛寶琴都說道：「真箇倒有趣呢。」 Li Wan smiled and said, "Then I will assign you to present something neither literary nor martial as a game." "If it's not well done, we'll all criticize her." Daiyu smiled and said, "According to me, while it is still early February weather, let us all plant some orchids." Baochai, Tanchun and Xue Baoqin all said, "Truly, this is quite interesting." |
| 20 | 李紈笑道：「林丫頭，你且說出個種蘭的好處來。」 Li Wan smiled and said, "Lin Yatou, you had better explain the benefits of planting orchids first." |
| 21 | 黛玉道：「我還有句話，差不多我的生日也近了，你們大家也不替我做生日，就將這分子湊起來，辦這一件玩兒，連我的生日也就雅極了。」李紈笑道：「咱們瞧她管帳的心機兒，處處打算，還說雅呢，好個能員派兒。」 Daiyu said, "I also have something to say. My birthday is coming soon too; since none of you are going to celebrate it for me, let's pool our contributions together and use them for this activity. It would be the most refined way to combine both my birthday and this pastime." Li Wan smiled and said, "Look at her calculating mind for managing accounts—she plans everything carefully. And yet she still calls it refined! What a capable person she is!" |
| 22 | 黛玉道：「告訴你，從來說花朝生日的女命是極不好的。咱們而今自己先說破了，從來極不好的八字，總要出一個極好的人兒，所以做這個生日偏要比人家不同些。」 Daiyu said, "Let me tell you that women born on the Flower Festival birthday are traditionally considered to have very bad fates." "Now that we ourselves have already spoken it out, the idea is this: a birth date traditionally considered extremely bad must produce an exceptionally good person. Therefore, for my birthday celebration, I want to make it especially different from others." |
| 23 | 寶釵笑道：「不同些，不過自己要算個國香便了。」黛玉就啐一啐道：「你便是個天下香。」黛玉這一句就說她是個鄉愿的意思。寶釵笑道：「咱們瞧她嘴頭子。」眾人都笑起來。李紈笑道：「罷了，聽她說這蘭花的妙處。」 Baochai smiled and said, "To be a little different is nothing more than wanting to claim yourself as the national fragrance." Daiyu spat slightly in mock annoyance and said, "You are the fragrance of the whole world." Daiyu's remark was meant to imply that she was a mere hypocrite who conforms to vulgar standards. Baochai smiled and said, "Look at her sharp tongue." Everyone laughed. Li Wan smiled and said, "Enough teasing—let's hear her talk about the wonders of orchids." |
| 24 | 黛玉笑道：「蘭花的妙處，你若不懂你也不盡著問。咱們而今先定見了種不種，果然種了，對著她講。」眾人齊聲說：「一定要種的。」 Daiyu smiled and said, "The wonders of orchids—if you don't understand them, there's no point in asking further." "Let us first decide whether or not to plant orchids. If we actually do, then I will explain it all to her." Everyone spoke in unison: "We must definitely plant them." |
| 25 | 寶釵道：「我倒要講定了，也不許各人各種，也不許種在瀟湘館，要在一個公所。為什麼呢，偏這林丫頭千伶百俐，總要弄出頂好的壓人。上年扎燈就是了，咱們也不犯著大家來朝你。」李紈道：「這麼說，你就定一個地方。」 Baochai said, "I insist on setting some rules: no one is allowed to plant orchids individually, and they must not be planted in Xiaoxiang Pavilion. They should all be planted together in a common place." "Why? Because this Lin Yatou is so clever and resourceful, she always wants to come up with the best idea to outshine others." "Last year it was just making lanterns; we didn't need everyone coming to admire you then either." Li Wan said, "Then in that case, you decide on a place yourself." |
| 26 | 正說著，寶玉也來了，聽說種蘭，也喜歡的，就說：「在怡紅院種去。」寶釵笑道：「是呢，倒來朝你呢。」史湘雲便道：「大凡蘭花的妙處，全要些風月。這清風明月又妙在臨水的軒廊。」寶琴道：「這麼看，一定在凹晶館。」眾人都說好。黛玉道：「是呢，真個的，蘭花在月亮底下，也就有了蘭韻。」 Just as they were speaking, Baoyu also arrived. Upon hearing about planting orchids, he was delighted and said, "Let's plant them in Yihong Courtyard." Baochai smiled and said, "Yes indeed—so you are the one everyone will come to admire now." Shi Xiangyun then said, "Generally speaking, the beauty of orchids lies entirely in some breeze and moonlight." Their charm is especially enhanced by pavilions and corridors overlooking water." Xue Baoqin said, "Then it must be at Aojing Pavilion." Everyone agreed that this was a good idea. Daiyu said, "Yes indeed. Truly, orchids under the moonlight naturally acquire their orchid-like charm." |
| 27 | 寶琴道：「不是這種花，也配不得這春天的月亮。秋月令人愁思，春月令人喜歡，照著春花，也嫌它太嬌艷了，不如淡淡的映著這個花。」史湘雲點點頭道：「也還有貞起下元的真意。」黛玉聽了，跟著點頭。寶釵道：「這麼說來，咱們的大觀園內玩兒到蘭花月亮，也算極盛的了。大嫂子，你便知道，祖宗時的精致陳設，也都要換起來。」 Xue Baoqin remarked, "It is not just any flower that can match this spring moonlight." Autumn moons evoke melancholy thoughts, while spring moons bring joy. When illuminating spring flowers, even they seem too delicate and showy; it is better for the moonlight to cast a gentle, faint glow over these blossoms." Shi Xiangyun nodded and said, "There is also the true meaning of upholding virtue for future generations in this." Daiyu listened and nodded in agreement. Baochai said, "If this is the case, then playing with orchids and moonlight within our Grand View Garden can truly be considered a most splendid event." "Elder sister-in-law, you must know that even the elegant decorations and arrangements from our ancestors' time will need to be changed." |
| 28 | 李紈道：「這個你倒也派得妥當，我就色色掉過便了。」 Li Wan said, "You have assigned this matter very appropriately. I shall just take charge of everything and make the necessary changes." |
| 29 | 寶玉道：「連那字畫也換。」 Baoyu said, "Even the calligraphy and paintings should be changed as well." |
| 30 | 黛玉道：「換換也好。你若是掛些蘭花畫兒，蘭花句兒，也小家子極了。」 Daiyu said, "Changing them is a good idea." "If you hang some orchid paintings and verses about orchids, it would look too petty and vulgar." |
| 31 | 寶玉道：「林妹妹，你瞧得我這樣，我便舍得出畫蘭，也舍不出畫月。從古名家，也只畫出月影一輪，也沒有畫出月色來呢。」 Baoyu said, "Little Sister Lin, if you see me this way, I would be willing to give up painting orchids, but not the moon." "Even from ancient masters of art, they only painted a single round moon shadow; none have ever truly captured the essence and color of moonlight." |
| 32 | 眾人都也發笑。從此，榮國府裏就千方百計種出些各色各樣的蘭花來。偏這件高雅的花卉，頂好的倒在各銀號字號，徽州朝奉、紹興算手處覓了來，有的說丈人阿伯要沒有拿去，有的說這種花出在我王老三手裏。寶釵只吩咐不許用五彩盆，只用宜興窯紫白二色，上等的另將那哥汝定窯盆栽著。盆面上五色鋪勻了山泥，又叫人將布竿收了好許多草頭曉露，勻勻的澆灌養著。為的蘭花喜風，不用玻璃罩，全用淡雅色紗罩罩著，就防了蜂蝶螞蟻。便有素蟲、蘭綠、蘭蟲、舌臼、點丹、穎綠、心紫、翹斜芳、大中小荷花瓣、點、月英、菊青，同那些同心、並頭、並蒂的一總出名異品五百餘盆，一齊分著香几香架及各色檀梓梨楠高腳架子，擺列到凹晶館去。李紈要他月亮大，吩咐將七間卷蓬卸去，等蘭花過了再裝起來。為的蘭花愛著風，把四面屏窗一齊上了纏菊洋簾，望去只如輕煙一抹。那凹晶館裏的陳設，也二十分精致。正中間放一張水雲擁螭的羊脂白玉床；兩旁邊，左首放一張波斯國瑪璃榻，右首放一張西洋琉璃榻；上放著香梓紫檀油楠的炕桌，還是三藍繡花的靠枕、炕墊；冰梅紋紫檀的腳踏，一色素紫檀便椅、葵花紋虎斑木便椅。東西套間內，不擺炕，單鋪了幾張軟腳床，掛著刷花香羅帳，預備著倦乏了過去躺躺的。那茗酒之器也全用古玩。又是正中間掛一幅趙松雪墨筆『蘭亭修禊圖』，一邊是黃子久『換鵝圖』橫披，一邊是王蒙『讀易圖』橫披，掛幾聯張伯雨集、鮮于伯機的對聯，真個色色精雅，總要讓這蘭花的香生出來，將爐鼎通去了。當時有許多揀下的蘭花，黛玉還添了無數，就親自瞧著，在凹晶館東首隔水的坡子上一道的栽滿，倒掘去了好些芙蓉根兒。寶玉只說道：「可惜。」 Everyone laughed again. From then on, the Rongguo Mansion went to great lengths and planted all kinds of different orchids in every color imaginable. This particularly elegant flower, however, was said to be in the possession of various silver shops and stores. Some claimed it had been taken by a father-in-law or an elder uncle, while others insisted that this kind of orchid was now in the hands of Old Wang San from Shaoxing. Baochai only gave instructions that no colorful pots were to be used, but instead the purple and white Yixing kiln pots. The finest orchids were to be planted in special pots from Ge, Ru, or Ding kilns. The surface of the pots was evenly covered with five-colored mountain soil, and people were sent to collect a great deal of fresh morning dew from grassy areas. The orchids were then watered and nurtured carefully and evenly. Because orchids enjoy a gentle breeze, no glass covers were used; instead, light and elegant colored gauze was placed over them to keep out bees, butterflies, and ants. There were also orchids of various rare and famous varieties, such as Su Chong, Lanlv, Lanchong, Shejiao, Dian Dan, Yinglv, Xinzi, Qiaoxiefang, large, medium, and small lotus-petaled types, Dian, Yueying, Juqing, along with those of the same heart, twin-blossomed, or double-stemmed varieties. Altogether over 500 pots were arranged on incense tables, incense racks, and various tall stands made from sandalwood, camphor wood, pear wood, and nanmu (a type of aromatic hardwood), all displayed in Aojing Pavilion. Li Wan wanted the moon to appear larger, so she ordered that all seven sliding canopies be removed and not reinstalled until after the orchid season was over. Since orchids love a gentle breeze, gauzy chrysanthemum-patterned foreign curtains were hung on all four sides of the screen windows. Looking out from inside, it seemed as if only a faint wisp of smoke remained. The furnishings in Aojing Pavilion were also extremely refined and exquisite. In the very center was placed a white jade bed with water cloud and dragon designs, as smooth as sheep's fat. To its left stood a Persian marble couch, while to its right was an ornate glass couch from the West. On top of them were炕 tables made of fragrant camphorwood, purple sandalwood, and oil楠 wood, along with embroidered flower-patterned cushions and mats in three shades of blue. There was also a footstool carved with plum blossom patterns on purple sandalwood, as well as plain purple sandalwood side chairs and side chairs made from tiger-spotted wood with chrysanthemum patterns. In the east and west connecting rooms, there were no kang beds; instead, several low-legged soft beds were laid out, each hung with embroidered fragrant gauze canopies, prepared for people to lie down and rest when they felt tired. The tea and wine vessels used there were all antique wares. In the center was hung a black-ink painting by Zhao Mengfu titled "Lanting Xiu Xi Tu" (The Orchid Pavilion Gathering). On one side, there was a horizontal scroll of Huang Zijiu's "Huan E Tu" (Goose Exchange Picture), and on the other side, Wang Meng's "Du Yi Tu" (Reading the I Ching Picture). Several couplets were also displayed—some collected by Zhang Boyu and others by Xianyu Boji. Truly, every detail was elegant and refined, all arranged to let the fragrance of the orchids emerge fully, even going so far as to remove incense burners entirely. At that time, there were many orchids selected and set aside. Daiyu added even more of them herself, personally overseeing their planting along the slope across the water to the east of Aojing Pavilion, so much so that she dug up quite a few lotus roots in the process. Baoyu only said, "What a pity." |
| 33 | 李紈也笑道：「裡邊這樣楚楚，那邊真個雜亂無章了，黛玉笑道：「你們誰懂得？」寶玉笑道：「這有什麼不懂，算有個蘭臺年年發花，供著你簪兒上帶帶便了。」黛玉笑道：「算是這個便了。那坡子高起，正對著一帶欄桿，芙蓉開時十分好看。雖則前後的芙蓉很多，可惜缺了這一帶。」寶玉嗟惜不已，便看著人去種這些芙蓉根兒，口裏也悄悄地埋怨道：「林妹妹，也替晴雯忌些兒好。」 Li Wan also smiled and said, "Inside is so elegant and orderly, while over there it's really chaotic." Daiyu laughed and said, "Who among you understands?" Baoyu smiled and said, "What's there not to understand? It's just like having a Lan Tai orchid that blooms every year, ready for you to wear in your hairpin." Daiyu laughed and said, "Well then, let it be just like that." The slope rose high, directly facing a stretch of balustrades. When the lotuses bloomed, it was particularly beautiful to behold. "Although there are many lotuses in front and behind, it's a pity this stretch is missing." Baoyu sighed with regret and, watching as people went to plant these lotus roots, muttered quietly, "Little Sister Lin, you should also spare some care for Qingwen." |
| 34 | 這裏姊妹們玩兒這箇，賈政、王夫人也走來瞧瞧。賈政喜他們玩得斯文，王夫人也說有趣。那花便漸漸的放起來。可可的過了二月初五六，天色陰陰起來，也毛毛的下了幾番細雨。雖則花情快活，卻是人意不歡。邢岫煙便笑李宮裁去得好捲篷。李綺便說：「瞧林姐姐求史真人叫個月亮出來。」 While the sisters were playing with this, Jia Zheng and Madam Wang came over to take a look as well. Jia Zheng was pleased that they were behaving so politely and elegantly, while Madam Wang also found it amusing and interesting. The flowers gradually began to bloom. Just as the second month passed its fifth or sixth day, the sky grew overcast and it rained lightly in several brief showers. Although the flowers were blooming joyfully, people's moods remained somber and unhappy. Xing Xiumei laughed at Li Gongcai for having removed the sliding canopies just in time. Li Qi said, "Look how Sister Lin is asking Shi Zhenren to summon a moon out for her." |
| 35 | 黛玉便笑說：「花朝的命兒不好，要這樣微風細雨纔配呢。」 Daiyu laughed and said, "The orchids have an unfortunate fate; only a gentle breeze and light drizzle are suitable for them." |
| 36 | 寶琴怕黛玉存了心，便道：「林姐姐瞧吧，到了天晴得久起來，沒有些雨絲兒，蘭花倒不樂呢。」黛玉笑道：「你也說得太巧。」李紈、寶釵道：「她真是個惜花人兒。」 Baoqin, fearing that Daiyu was brooding over something, said, "Sister Lin, just watch. When the weather stays clear for too long and there's not even a trace of drizzle, the orchids won't be happy at all." Daiyu laughed and said, "You're saying that far too cleverly." Li Wan and Baochai said, "She is truly a person who cherishes flowers." |
| 37 | 誰知初十獻午，天就晴起來，到了十一那天，太陽微微烘起來。那些蘭花分外開得茂盛，香也香極了。王夫人以下都替黛玉予賀。寶玉也喜喜的跳出跳進。寶釵就與黛玉商議道：「這樣幽雅的玩兒，放不得俗人在裏面。咱們而今日裏頭，讓寶玉同姑夫們去賞玩，憑他們喝酒聽曲，只不許做戲文惱了蘭花。等他們散了，咱們只等月亮上來出去，也不吃什麼，只品些上好的茶葉泉水。」黛玉道：「很好。」 Little did they know that on the tenth day at noon, the sky cleared up. By the eleventh day, the sun began to shine gently and warmly. Those orchids bloomed especially vigorously and their fragrance was absolutely exquisite. Madam Wang and those below her all congratulated Daiyu on behalf of the occasion. Baoyu was also delighted, leaping about joyfully in and out. Baochai then discussed with Daiyu, saying, "Such an elegant gathering cannot allow vulgar people to be part of it. Today, we should let Baoyu and his uncle go in to enjoy themselves. Let them drink wine and listen to music as they please, but only on the condition that they do not perform plays or disturb the orchids." "After they are done, we will wait until the moon rises and then go out. We won't eat anything—just taste some of the finest tea leaves with spring water." Daiyu said, "That sounds wonderful." |
| 38 | 真個到了十二日早晨，黛玉便艷妝了出去，家廟裏拈香，拜了舅舅、舅太太，長幼上下都拜過了壽。宮裏仲妃也打發人送畫出來。這裡賈政、賈赦、璉兒、寶玉、蘭哥兒讓著曹、白、章、萬、杭氏兄弟、林、姜二位並程日興等門客，都到凹晶館賞花聽曲。直到日色平西，盡歡而散。王夫人、薛姨媽只同著邢夫人、尤氏、蓉兒媳婦在內堂瞧女樂。這裏大觀園姊妹史湘雲、香菱、寶釵、寶琴、李紈、李紋、李琦、探春、喜鸞、喜鳳、平兒、黛玉、寶玉、紫鵑、晴雯、鶯兒一十六人，各帶丫頭、老婆子，踏著月色，一群人都望凹晶館來。一路上穿著樹影花陰，也就可愛。大家瞧著身上，都像刺了墨繡花兒。那幾天天色驟晴，春光和暖，也著不住小毛衣服，只穿些棉紗棉縐衫兒。這夜的月色明亮得很，天上一點雲彩沒有，就如鋪了一片綠波。月亮旁邊有兩三顆明星，像著翡翠上嵌的珠子。將近凹晶館，就有一陣陣蘭花香韻飄過來。薛寶琴、寶玉走得快，先走近了凹晶館的西首欄桿，寶琴就拍手笑道：「妙極了，下了大雪了。」隨後眾人走來都說道：「有趣，有趣，月亮要跌下來了。」 Indeed, on the morning of the twelfth day, Daiyu went out in a gorgeous and elaborate makeup. She burned incense at the ancestral temple, paid respects to her uncle and aunt, and offered birthday greetings to all family members, both young and old, according to their ranks. From within the palace, Zhong Fei also sent people with paintings as a gift. Meanwhile, Jia Zheng, Jia She, Lian Er, Baoyu, and Lan Geer invited Cao, Bai, Zhang, Wan, Hang brothers, as well as Lin, Jiang, and Cheng Rixing among other guests to Aojing Pavilion for flower-viewing and music-listening. They stayed until the sun was about to set in the west, enjoying themselves heartily before finally dispersing. Madam Wang and Auntie Xue were only accompanied by Madam Xing, You Shi, and Rong'er's wife in the inner hall to watch female musicians perform. Meanwhile, in the Grand View Garden, sixteen sisters and companions—Shi Xiangyun, Xiangling, Baochai, Baoqin, Li Wan, Li Wen, Li Qi, Tanchun, Xiluan, Xifeng, Ping'er, Daiyu, Baoyu, Zijuan, Qingwen, Yinger—all brought along their maids and elderly servants. Under the moonlight, a large group of them made their way toward Aojing Pavilion together. Along the way, they passed through shadows of trees and blossoms, which was also very charming. Everyone looked at themselves and found that their clothes seemed as if embroidered with ink patterns. Those few days saw the weather suddenly clear up, and the spring air was warm and pleasant. People could no longer wear their thin woolen clothes; instead, they wore only light cotton gauze or crêpe garments. The moon that night was exceptionally bright, with not a single cloud in the sky, as if it were spread out like a sheet of emerald ripples. Beside the moon hung two or three bright stars, resembling pearls embedded in jade. As they approached Aojing Pavilion, a fragrant breeze of orchids drifted toward them in waves. Xue Baoqin and Baoyu walked quickly and arrived at the western balustrade of Aojing Pavilion first. Baoqin clapped her hands and laughed, saying, "It's absolutely wonderful—there has been a heavy snowfall!" As the others came up behind, they all said in delight, "How interesting! How interesting! The moon is about to fall down!" |
| 39 | 寶玉便走到臺基中間亂舞，又叫道：「咱們快走，到月心子裏來。」眾人真個的依著他。黛玉笑道：「大家瞧琴妹妹好標致呢。」李紈笑道：「這月亮地下，憑你小戶人家村莊裡的女孩子，大凡眉清目秀的總瞧得好，不要說咱們家這個琴妹妹。從前老太太也只見她在雪地裏，沒見她在這個月亮下。」寶琴笑道：「大家也瞧林姐姐愛不愛？」黛玉笑道：「也瞧你家寶姐姐，愛不愛？」大家說笑，把個寶玉樂得什麼似的，只說道：「為的你們不愛擦粉，替你們擦這個月亮粉便了，大家瞧瞧勻不勻。」 Baoyu then ran into the middle of the terrace and danced wildly, shouting, "Come on, let's all hurry up and go to the very heart of the moon!" The others really followed his lead. Daiyu laughed and said, "Everyone look how graceful little sister Qin is." Li Wan smiled and said, "Under this moonlight, even a girl from a small village or peasant family with clear eyebrows and bright eyes looks beautiful. That's not to mention our own little sister Qin." "Before, Old Lady only saw her in the snow; she never had a chance to see her under this kind of moonlight." Baoqin laughed and said, "Everyone look—does Sister Lin also find it appealing?" Daiyu smiled and said, "Also take a look at your sister Baochai—does she like it or not?" Everyone was laughing and chatting, which delighted Baoyu beyond measure. He exclaimed joyfully, "Since you all don't like to put on powder, I'll just apply this moonlit powder for you instead—everyone take a look and see if it's even or not." |
| 40 | 李紋道：「來來來，瞧寶姐姐的金釵上一絲絲的金焰，直射到月亮裏。」寶釵道：「誰不是這樣，就瞧你頭髮上，不是一圈佛頂光。」黛玉便指著樹林裡說道：「雕板子也沒有這樣清楚。」寶玉就仰著頭，將兩隻手望上亂撩，腳下亂跳，道：「你就下來吧。」又走到石欄桿邊望著水裏，道：「你們瞧，它耀眼睛似的，一晃一晃引著我，怪不得李太白丟了性命要捉住它。」黛玉怕寶玉真個發呆，就拉他轉來，道：「咱們大家還是瞧蘭花去。」於是大家都走到蘭花架子邊，只見蘭葉上也亮得很。黛玉叫一概去了紗罩，細細地瞧。那些蘭花益發幽靜，也有全放的，半吐的，放一瓣像指著人的，也有蒂莖兒繞一圈兒往上的，都像要言語的意思，也有隱在叢裏像高人幽士在草廬中獨坐的。那些花葉交加，總望得玲瓏剔透，映在地下也好學些筆法兒。寶玉道：「怎麼著費了多少心栽它，把些香韻都被月亮裏的蝦蟆精吸去了，就一些兒也不聞。」 Li Wen said, "Come on, come on—look at the golden flame shimmering from Sister Baochai's hairpin; it shines all the way into the moon." Baochai said, "Who among us isn't like this? Just look at your own hair—it's not a halo of golden light on top?" Daiyu then pointed toward the grove and said, "Even carved printing blocks don't look this clear." Baoyu looked up with his head tilted back, flailing both hands upward and hopping about on the ground as he said, "Come down then!" He then walked to the stone balustrade and looked into the water, saying, "Look at how it shines in my eyes, flickering back and forth as if trying to lure me. No wonder Li Taibai lost his life chasing after it." Daiyu, fearing that Baoyu might really become dazed and lost in thought, pulled him back and said, "Let's all go look at the orchids instead." So everyone moved toward the orchid stands. They saw that the leaves of the orchids were also shining brightly. Daiyu ordered all the gauze covers to be removed so they could examine them carefully. The orchids appeared even more serene and quiet. Some were fully blooming, others half-unfurled; some opened a single petal as if pointing at people. Others had stems curling upward in circles, all seeming to want to speak. There were also those hidden among the foliage, like reclusive sages sitting alone in thatched huts. The interwoven flowers and leaves looked delicate and translucent, casting beautiful shadows on the ground that seemed like a fine calligraphy model to study. Baoyu said, "No matter how much effort we put into planting them, the fragrance has all been sucked away by the toad spirits in the moon. Not a trace of it can be smelled." |
| 41 | 黛玉道：「你不知，這個花可遠不可近的，大家跟我來。」就一齊到東窗邊坐下，只覺得欄桿外隔水的坡子上，一陣陣蘭香悠悠揚揚地送過來，眾人纔服她前日的布置。寶玉道：「這個香到底有些苦意。」寶釵道：「清得很。」寶琴道：「而今人很熱鬧的，就說這個人紅，也說紅極了。咱們想起來，凡是花卉十分紅的不很香，算有玫瑰花兒也憩俗，大凡清香的原有些苦味呢。」史湘雲道：「譬如月亮，紅了也不會明，清白兩字原是連的。」 Daiyu said, "You don't know—this kind of flower is best appreciated from afar rather than up close. Everyone follow me." They all sat down together by the eastern window and immediately felt a gentle, lingering fragrance of orchids drifting in from the slope across the water beyond the balustrade. Only then did everyone truly appreciate her arrangements from the previous day. Baoyu said, "This fragrance still carries a hint of bitterness." Baochai replied, "It's very refreshing." Baoqin said, "Now that people are so lively and cheerful, they say this person is red—meaning popular—and indeed, it's the most vibrant." "When we think about it, any flower that is extremely red tends not to be very fragrant. Even roses, though beautiful, can seem a bit vulgar. Generally speaking, the ones with a delicate fragrance often have some bitterness in them." Shi Xiangyun said, "Take the moon for example—it doesn't shine when it's red. The words 'clear' and 'pure' are originally connected." |
| 42 | 黛玉道：「這是底子裏的緣故，倘若月亮遮了雲，也不明。所以謝三愛一個微雲點綴，倒被王道子說一個心地不淨，滓穢太清了。」史湘雲道：「這番議論，倒也是一個格物的見解。」 Daiyu said, "This is due to the nature of its foundation. If the moon were covered by clouds, it wouldn't shine either." "Therefore, Xie San loved a faint cloud to accentuate the moon, but Wang Daozi criticized it as an impure heart, saying that too much dirt spoiled its clarity." Shi Xiangyun said, "This kind of discussion is actually a profound insight into the nature of things." |
| 43 | 那時候月亮也直起來，眾人也喝了好些茶。再瞧那蘭花，又放開好些。忽見綠楊影裏簌簌的響，眾人駭了一跳，卻是焙茗、李瑤聽了寶玉的吩咐，抬了一座大千里鏡來，就將架子支起。寶玉說：「是祖宗時上陣用的寶貝，咱們且拿來瞧這個月兒。」又叫李瑤提了好些收香鳥，放在蘭臺上，收些蘭花香兒到各人房裏去。眾人真個的就著這千里鏡望月，盡著眼力瞧去。也不過瞧得大了好些，望去一塊塊山石影子似的。只有黛玉看得月亮分外親近，像是見些宮殿人影兒。問著史湘雲，也只笑笑不肯說。眾人也盡興了。內裏戲也完上來。王夫人叫人來催進去，只得大家轉來，寶琴道：「討人嫌的這個月亮，我快也快，我慢也慢，只跟著跑似的，不要惹我走轉去追著它。」眾人都笑說道：「好孩子氣。」 At that time, the moon had risen high in the sky and everyone had already drunk quite a bit of tea. Looking at the orchids again, they saw that even more blossoms had opened up. Suddenly, a rustling sound was heard from among the green willow shadows, startling everyone. It turned out to be Beiming and Li Yao, who had followed Baoyu's instructions and brought a large telescope, setting up its stand right there. Baoyu said, "This is an heirloom treasure used by our ancestors on the battlefield. Let's use it to take a look at this moon." He also ordered Li Yao to bring several scent-collecting birds and place them on the orchid terrace, so they could gather some of the orchid fragrance to take back to each person's room. Everyone really used this telescope to gaze at the moon, straining their eyes as far as they could see. It was no more than seeing it appear somewhat larger, looking like patches of shadowy rocks. Only Daiyu seemed to feel the moon especially close; she appeared to see some palace figures and human silhouettes within it. When asked by Shi Xiangyun, she only smiled and refused to say anything. Everyone had their fill of enjoyment. Inside, the performance was also finished. Madam Wang had people come to urge everyone back inside, so they all reluctantly returned. Baoqin said, "This moon is annoying—whether I go fast or slow, it just keeps running ahead of me like a shadow; don't make me turn around and chase after it." Everyone laughed and said, "What a childlike remark." |
| 44 | 大家說說笑笑望王夫人那邊去。正將走到角門，只見琥珀過來說道：「太太說夜深了，上頭客人都散了，太太也坐不住醉得很，就待上床，叫姑娘們奶奶們通不要上去了。」眾人只得同到寶釵處坐了一會子，大家方纔回去。到了第二日，黛玉早起謝壽畢，就走到李紈處來。方纔坐定，只見素芳來說：「王大爺在外面。」黛玉就走出去，叫他進來，問他有什麼話。王元笑嘻嘻的打了一千，站起來笑道：「小的有一件物事，要來孝敬大姑娘。」黛玉問：「是什麼？」 Laughing and chatting, everyone made their way toward Madam Wang's quarters. Just as they were about to reach the corner gate, Hupo came over and said, "Madam says it is getting late at night; all the guests upstairs have dispersed. Madam herself can barely stay seated from being so drunk and is going straight to bed. She has ordered that none of the young ladies or aunts should go up." Everyone had no choice but to gather at Baocai's place and sit for a while before finally going back. The next day, early in the morning after Daiyu had finished offering her thanks on her birthday, she went to Li Wan's quarters. No sooner had she just sat down than Sufang came in and said, "Master Wang is outside." Daiyu immediately went out and called him in, asking what he had to say. Wang Yuan smiled cheerfully and made a thousand bows before standing up and laughing, saying, "I have something to present as a gift for the young lady." Daiyu asked, "What is it?" |
| 45 | 王元笑道：「不瞞姑娘說，這一件物事從來沒有到京的，到了京也沒人敢吃他。」黛玉嚇了一嚇，道：「一定是什麼毒物了。」 Wang Yuan laughed and said, "I won't hide this from the young lady—this item has never come to the capital before, and even when it does arrive in the capital, no one dares eat it." Daiyu was startled and said, "It must be some kind of poisonous creature." |
| 46 | 王元笑道：「實在就是河豚魚。」黛玉笑道：「這個麼，我小時候也在南邊嘗過的，好是實在好，不過只是險些兒。」 Wang Yuan laughed and said, "In truth, it's just a pufferfish." Daiyu laughed and said, "That one—I did taste it when I was a child in the south. It's really delicious, though just a bit risky." |
| 47 | 王元笑道：「不妨事的。就是咱們家吳老朝奉在南邊來，竟拿一個大木桶，盛了江水活養著二三百尾帶進京來，竟有一百多尾是活的。小的為了年紀上了，也不敢試它。這吳老朝奉帶了會弄它的廚子進來，老朝奉就吃給小的瞧，小的也吃了。今日小的也蒸製了好些，大爺嘗著也說好得很，叫小的過來回大姑娘，大姑娘若不放心，小的拚著老命先嘗給大姑娘瞧。」黛玉笑道：「果然放心吃得，妙極的了，你就拿過來。」王元便即去了。李紈便走出來笑道：「好，這也妙絕了，咱們而今就拿它賞蘭花。」黛玉道：「很好。」就叫人請了眾姊妹同寶玉來。眾人到了，聽說這個，大家喜出非常。寶玉便道：「咱們快去吧。」 Wang Yuan laughed and said, "It's perfectly safe." It was our household's Old Wu Chaofeng who, coming from the south, brought in a large wooden barrel filled with river water and kept two or three hundred of them alive all the way to the capital. More than one hundred were still alive when they arrived. I, being old now, dare not try it myself. This Old Wu Chaofeng brought in a cook who knows how to prepare it. The old chaofeng ate some in front of me, and I also had a taste. Today, I also steamed and prepared quite a bit. The master tasted it and said it was very good indeed. He sent me over to inform the young lady. If you don't feel at ease, I'm willing to risk my old life first and eat some in front of you." Daiyu laughed and said, "If it's truly safe to eat, that's wonderful. Bring it over then." Wang Yuan immediately left. Li Wan came out laughing and said, "Good! This is absolutely wonderful. Let's now serve it as a treat with the orchids." Daiyu said, "That sounds very good." She then ordered someone to invite all the sisters and Baoyu over. When everyone arrived and heard about it, they were extremely delighted. Baoyu immediately said, "Let's go quickly then." |
| 48 | 寶釵便道：「而今，我有一個議論在此，咱們從前，聚得熱鬧的時候，大家高興起過詩社。此調不彈久了，就前日你們做幾首青蓮花詩，也算不得。想起從前的詩社，惟有菊花社最盛，詩也多。恰好而今種了蘭花，古人說得好，春蘭秋菊各占一時之秀，咱們今日不可不作蘭花詩，也便請了鸞、鳳二位同香菱嫂子一齊入社，大家評評好不好？」寶玉先跳起來，道：「妙極。」眾人都說好。寶玉道：「索性我說出來吧。林妹妹從前焚的詩稿，我已經替她一齊默了出來，她這些時正在用功收拾，這件事益發打入她的拳路去了。」 Baocai said, "Now, I have a suggestion to make. In the past, when we gathered in such lively company, we once formed a poetry society out of our joy." We haven't played this game for quite some time. Even the few poems you wrote about the blue lotus a couple of days ago don't really count. Thinking back to our previous poetry society, only the chrysanthemum society was most flourishing and produced many poems. Now that we have just planted orchids, as the ancients said well, "spring orchids and autumn chrysanthemums each claim their own season of beauty." We must not fail to compose some orchid poems today. I also suggest inviting Luan, Feng, and Aunt Xiangling to join the society together, so everyone can judge whether it is good or not." Baoyu jumped up first and said, "That's absolutely brilliant!" Everyone agreed it was a good idea. Baoyu said, "Let me go ahead and say this out loud." "The poems that Miss Lin burned before, I have already memorized them all for her. She has been diligently working to organize these recent days, and this matter is now even more deeply absorbed into her focus." |
| 49 | 李紈道：「寶妹妹的議論果然好，我還有一個省事而有趣的道理。比如從前是憶菊，而今就憶蘭，從前是訪菊，而今就訪蘭，一直排下去，也還他十二首，好不好？」黛玉笑道：「實在好。」 Li Wan said, "Baocai's suggestion is indeed excellent. I also have a simple yet interesting idea." "For example, just as we used to have 'Recalling Chrysanthemums,' now we can have 'Recalling Orchids'; where before it was 'Visiting the Chrysanthemum,' now it will be 'Visiting the Orchid.' We could continue this pattern and still compose twelve poems. Does that sound good?" Daiyu laughed and said, "That's really great." |
| 50 | 寶琴道：「好便好，蘭卻比菊難了好些。」探春道：「真個呢，這倒也是一句甘苦話呢。」李紈笑道：「而今有河豚吃了，怕不作出兩句好詩。」寶玉笑道：「從前也吃過螃蟹呢。」寶釵笑道：「螃蟹配不上河豚呢。」眾人都大笑起來。當下寶玉便去能請了喜鸞、喜鳳、香菱過來，會齊了，一同到凹晶館去。那時侯春陽近午，蘭花十分馥郁。眾姊妹便次第的坐下。寶玉倒像個書房小子似的，出出進進，捧了端硯、古墨、湖筆、雪箋過來。先將十二個題目一排兒寫出。史湘雲道：「而今倒有一句話，有些新入社的沒有別號，各人且自己說出來。」喜鸞便說是「聞風逸士，」喜鳳便說是「碧桐靜友」，香菱便說是「映蓮仙客」，寶琴便說是「松下清僚」。這寶玉、黛玉、寶釵、探春各仍其舊。眾人公議，仍舊請李紈為主司，評定甲乙。各人就去揀題。香雪便替王元上來請示，問幾時擺席。李紈吩咐交卷就席。當下寶釵先去把第一個《憶蘭》勾了，題下注上一個「蘅」字。寶玉道：「又是她把第一個勾了。」黛玉便把《問蘭》、《供蘭》、《畫蘭》勾了。湘雲也把《蘭影》、《蘭夢》勾了。寶玉道：「這種搶法，差不多好的通揀完了，等我也挑一個。」 Baoqin said, "It's good indeed, but orchids are much more difficult to write about than chrysanthemums." Tancun said, "That's true. This is actually a very honest and heartfelt remark." Li Wan laughed and said, "Now that we have pufferfish to eat, I don't think it will be hard to compose a couple of good poems." Baoyu laughed and said, "We've also eaten crabs before." Baocai laughed and said, "Crabs can't compare to pufferfish at all." Everyone burst into laughter. At once, Baoyu went to invite Xi Luan, Xi Feng, and Xiangling over. After they all gathered together, they headed off to the Aojing Pavilion as one group. At that time, the spring sun was approaching noon and the orchids were exuding an especially rich fragrance. The sisters then sat down in order. Baoyu, like a scholarly boy from the study, went in and out repeatedly, bringing over an inkstone, ancient ink, Huxi brushes, and snow paper. He first wrote down all twelve titles in a row. Shi Xiangyun said, "Now I have something to say—some of the new members haven't yet chosen a pseudonym. Everyone should now come up with one and announce it." Xi Luan said her pseudonym was "Wenfeng Yishi," Xi Feng chose "Bitong Jingyou," Xiangling selected "Yinglian Xianke," and Baoqin declared hers to be "Songxia Qingliao." Baoyu, Daiyu, Baocai, and Tancun each kept their old pseudonyms. Everyone agreed unanimously to still invite Li Wan as the chief judge to determine rankings. Each person then went ahead and selected a topic. Xiangxue came forward on behalf of Wang Yuan to inquire when the meal would be served. Li Wan gave instructions that once everyone had submitted their poems, they could proceed with the banquet. At once, Baocai went first and marked off the first poem, "Recalling Orchids," writing a "Heng" character beneath the title. Baoyu said, "Again it's her who marked off the first one." Daiyu then marked off "Inquiring about Orchids," "Offering Orchids," and "Painting Orchids." Xiangyun also marked off "Orchid Shadows" and "Orchid Dreams." Baoyu said, "With this kind of competition for the best topics, almost all the good ones have been taken. Let me pick one as well." |
| 51 | 正說著，寶琴也來把《殘蘭》勾了，香菱也就把《訪蘭》勾了。寶玉隨即也勾了一個《詠蘭》，隨後喜鸞便勾了《種蘭》，喜鳳勾了《對蘭》。各在題下注了一字。這班閨閣裙釵，倒也筆如風雨，兩三盞茶時，也都完了。寶玉就叫香雪、碧漪揀一幅鵝黃衍波箋謄出來，各題下各注出別號。寫完了，送與李紈，就從頭讀道：憶蘭蘅蕪君曾接梅花細細開，叢無香影費徘徊。行依芳草難忘去，夢到空山乍醒來。記我先春耕翠畹，溯他前度透蒼苔。羅堂被徑離披處，試請東風一早催。訪蘭映蓮仙客欲求幽品度層巒，枉遇樵人告雪寒。筇杖撥雪尋徑曲，筠筐行路見香難。悠莧粲臚靈悟，清苣終僅古歡。應是嚴阿留絕代，儻傳消息慰盤桓。種蘭聞風逸士生即當門未忍鋤，移根好與惜清疏。想他藤徑含葩處，稱爾松根放箭初。泥屑細勻丹穎茁，水華輕灑綠翹舒。只須淨洗黃磁斗，差配天寒倚竹居。對蘭碧桐靜友下玉階來喜見之，延俄正好挹清姿。自知性癖看無厭，任笑餘癡坐肯移。餐秀盡容前覿面，襲芳休悔後相思。猗猗忽使生慚愧，忘卻法緣爾許時。供蘭瀟湘仙子擬覿幽芳近愈遙，衡雲天上望迢迢。請登玉几當湘賦，應坐紗籠抵楚騷。高見鶯黃含嫩舌，珍宜翡翠配芳苕。只將沿水陳清獻，欲讓生香鼎篆消。詠蘭怡紅公子詩意逢君怕阻深，遠藏岩谷孰追尋。含毫信否傳高致，選韻疑於配素心。品絕煙霞難吐屬，貌窮仙隱費沉吟。饒他長吉言幽露，啼眼徒憐病態侵。畫蘭瀟湘仙子春風筆底忽回翔，落紙離披肖素芳。誰向繁中求靜趣，難從空處取真香。唇脂雅配含心淡，手釧生憎放葉長。儻寫靈根辭水墨，輕青嫩綠辨微茫。問蘭瀟湘仙子試向青客君子呼，獨尋芳畹竭區區。那將山意幽來絕？怎把春光淡到無？別去煙蘿寧不恨？伴些松竹可嫌迂？忘言應笑嘵嘵舌，許我同心調豈孤。簪蘭蘅無君露穀摘下最鮮新，在月梳旁點綴勻。恰向鬟雲窺靜女，恍於髮鑒映佳人。翠羞顏色拈來淡，玉比精神琢未真。膏沐艷香添雅韻，只憐零落枕邊春。蘭影枕霞舊友汛汛驚看墨蔭稠，靜將釵股暗中偷。生花映紙青俱盡，折葉依墻粉細勾。身為檠風對搖漾，叢因紗月兩明幽。縱知色相具空處，自寫清姿韻致留。蘭夢枕霞舊友遙汀被處阻湘煙，春困欄邊亦可憐。情澹略因雲緒惹，神清也為月魂牽。都房旖旎鶯驚覺，茂苑芊眠蝶栩然。一勺寒泉發深醒，懶容低亞倍芳妍。殘蘭松下清僚檀心瘦甚古香留，漸有微黃暈瓣頭。一半春中情若怨，十分幽處態含愁。再思采采心何忍，尚見婷婷意似羞。為惜精神早加剪，盡堪芄佩繡囊收。李紈正在反複吟哦，眾姊妹大家稱獎起來，彼此各相推服。寶玉只說道：「你們都好到這樣，實在難於品評了。」 Just as he was speaking, Baoqin also came and marked off "Fading Orchids," while Xiangling took "Visiting the Orchid." Baoyu then quickly marked off "Ode to Orchids." Shortly after, Xi Luan took "Planting Orchids," and Xi Feng marked off "Facing the Orchid." Each of them wrote a single character beneath their chosen title. These young ladies, with their hairpins and skirts, wrote as if caught in a storm; within the time of drinking two or three cups of tea, they had all finished. Baoyu then ordered Xiangxue and Biyi to select a sheet of yellow ripple-patterned paper to transcribe the poems, making sure each title was annotated with its respective pseudonym. After it was all written, they sent it to Li Wan. She began reading from the beginning: "Recalling Orchids—Hengwu Jun once connected with plum blossoms opening delicately; among the clusters without fragrance or shadow, I lingered in aimless wandering." "Following fragrant grass, it is hard to forget departure; dreaming of empty mountains, one suddenly awakens." "Remember me tilling the emerald fields in early spring, tracing his former steps through moss-covered paths." "In the secluded halls where paths diverge and scatter, I beg the east wind to come early and urge them on." "Visiting Orchids—Yinglian Xianke wishes to seek a refined fragrance beyond the mountain ridges, but in vain meets a woodcutter who speaks of cold snow." "Sticking with a bamboo staff to clear snow and find winding paths; carrying a bamboo basket, the fragrance is hard to catch along the way." "Youshan's bright clarity awakens spiritual insight; Qingju remains only as ancient joy." "It should be Yan A, who left behind a generation of excellence. If word could reach him, it would comfort my lingering thoughts." "Planting Orchids—Wenfeng Yishi says: When born right at the gate, one cannot bear to dig it up; better to transplant its roots and cherish its clarity and sparseness." "Thinking of where vines trail with blooming flowers, this is the time when your pine-rooted orchid first unfurls its arrows." "Fine soil evenly nourishes red buds as they sprout; light water sprinkles, and green tassels gently unfurl." "Just need to clean the yellow porcelain basin well—this is a modest match for a cold day leaning by the bamboo dwelling." "Facing Orchids—Bitong Jingyou descends the jade steps with joy at seeing it, lingering just long enough to admire its clear beauty." "Knowing my eccentric nature, I can never look enough; let them laugh as they may—I remain content and still." "Eating the beauty of its bloom, I welcome this face-to-face encounter. Let fragrance linger—do not regret thoughts that come later." "Yi yi suddenly makes me feel ashamed, forgetting for so long the bond of fate and connection." "Offering Orchids—Xiao Xiang Xianzi imagines meeting the fragrant bloom, yet it feels even more distant. Looking up at the clouds over Hengshan Mountain in heaven, I see only endless distance." "Please ascend to the jade table and compose a verse worthy of Xiang; you should sit beneath the gauze lantern, rivaling the poetry of Chu." "High above, yellow orioles with tender beaks sing; precious indeed to pair emerald feathers with fragrant tassels below." "Just present the clear offering along the stream, wishing for its living fragrance to vanish like incense in an ancient censer." "Ode to Orchids—Yihong Gongzi says: Meeting you with poetic intent, I fear the path is too deep. Hidden far in rocky valleys, who can find and follow?" "Holding my brush, do I truly convey lofty meaning? Choosing rhymes, I wonder if they match a pure heart." "Of such refined beauty, even mist and clouds cannot capture its essence; in appearance it hides like an immortal, making one ponder endlessly." "Even if Chang Ji speaks of dewy seclusion, the tearful eyes only pity a sickly condition." "Painting Orchids—Xiao Xang Xianzi: Spring winds beneath the brush suddenly wheel and dance; on paper, scattered strokes capture the pure fragrance." "Who seeks quiet charm among abundance? True fragrance cannot be found in emptiness." "Lip rouge gracefully matches a modest heart; bangles, though elegant, resent the long leaves' spread." "If I were to write of this spiritual root beyond ink and wash, faint greens and tender greens would barely distinguish themselves." "Questioning Orchids—Xiao Xian Xiangzi: Try calling out to the gentleman of green, but in vain I search alone for fragrant fields." "How can one convey the mountain's deep solitude?" "How can spring light be diluted to nothingness?" "Parting from misty vines, could one not feel regret?" "To be accompanied by pines and bamboos—could it seem too old-fashioned?" "Forgetting words, I should laugh at the babbling tongue; may my kindred heart not feel lonely in this harmony." "Adorning with Orchids—Hengwu: The most fresh and new, plucked from the dewy valley; evenly placed beside the moon comb." "Just as I glimpse a quiet maiden among her cloud-like hair, it's like seeing a beautiful woman reflected in a mirror of tresses." loyd "Green blushes—colors plucked with delicacy; jade compared to spirit, yet not truly carved." "Oiled and perfumed, adding elegance and charm—only pity the withering spring by my pillow." "Orchid Shadow—Jiu You: Rushing waters startle me as I see the inked shade thickening; quietly, hairpins are stolen in secret." "Living flowers cast green shadows on paper; broken leaves lean against walls, delicately outlined with pink." "The body sways in the wind's embrace, while clusters beneath gauzy moonlight glow softly and clearly." "Even knowing color and form are empty, I still paint the clear grace that lingers." "Orchid Dream—Jiu You: Distant shores are blocked by Xiang mist; spring drowsiness at the railing is also pitiable." "Feelings grow faint from clouds' thoughts, yet clarity of spirit is drawn by the moon's soul." "The boudoirs are lush and charming; orioles startle awake. In Maoyuan, butterflies flutter over sleeping grass in a dreamlike state." "A spoonful of cold spring water awakens deeply; the lazy face droops lower, yet becomes even more fragrant and beautiful." "Wilted Orchids—Under the Pine: The heart is slender, leaving an ancient fragrance; gradually, a faint yellow tints the petals." "Half of spring's charm carries sorrowful feelings; in its deepest solitude lies a state full of melancholy." "To think again of picking them—how could the heart bear it? Still, their graceful beauty seems shy and delicate." "Out of pity for their spirit, I should cut them early; they are fit to be placed in embroidered pouches as ornaments." Li Wan was reciting the verses repeatedly, and all the sisters praised her highly. They admired each other's talents and were mutually impressed. Baoyu only said, "You are all so good to this extent; it is really difficult to evaluate." |
| 52 | 李紈笑道：「題目呢卻比上次的菊花難些，詩卻好呢。我再從公批評出來：《問蘭》第一，《憶蘭》第二，《蘭影》第三，《畫蘭》第四，《供蘭》第五，《殘蘭》第六，又要推瀟湘仙子為魁了，真個的春蘭、秋菊都被她占去了。以下《訪蘭》、《種蘭》、《對蘭》、《簪蘭》、《蘭夢》不好了，末了《詠蘭》又是寶兄弟了。」寶玉也拍手歡喜道：「實在公極。」 Li Wan smiled and said, "The topic is a bit more challenging than the last one on chrysanthemums, but the poems are excellent." "I will now give a fair evaluation: 'Questioning Orchids' is first, 'Remembering Orchids' second, 'Orchid Shadow' third, 'Painting Orchids' fourth, 'Offering Orchids' fifth, and 'Wilted Orchids' sixth. Once again, Xiao Xiang Xianzi takes the lead; truly, both spring orchids and autumn chrysanthemums have been claimed by her." "The following 'Visiting Orchids,' 'Planting Orchids,' 'Facing Orchids,' 'Adorning with Orchids,' and 'Orchid Dream' are not as good. Lastly, 'Ode to Orchids' is once again by Bao Xiongdi." Baoyu also clapped his hands with joy and said, "That's truly fair." |
| 53 | 李紈道：「眾人以為何如？」黛玉只笑說：「當不起的。」 Li Wan asked, "What do the rest of you think?" Daiyu only smiled and said, "I am not worthy." |
| 54 | 眾人都說：「確當得很。」 Everyone said, "It is indeed very appropriate." |
| 55 | 李紈道：「這『行依芳草』『夢到空山』一聯難道不好？無奈她這『那將山意』、『怎把春光』二句又把蘭花問得無言可對了。底下那個『青俱盡』、『粉細勾』也實在沉著，雖有『唇脂』、『手釧』巧艷之句，不能讓她。那『供』字也烘托得妙，『殘』字也出神。往後好句尚多，算來都壓下去了。」黛玉道：「那《對蘭》的『看無厭』、『坐肯移』也妙。」湘雲道：「就『稱爾松根』一句也出神。」黛玉道：「那《蘭影》、《蘭夢》尤妙，也是個見道之言。我從前見她這箇枕霞的號，就知道她離塵超凡了。」當下，眾姊妹便重新的大家吟賞了一會，方纔上席。都贊這個河魚，果然是一件尤物，大家都盡興吃了些，也吃了好些青果。李紈忽然笑道：「寶兄弟，我記起來，你從前還我一首《螃蟹詩》，而今何不補出一首《河豚詩》？」 Li Wan asked, "Is the couplet 'Walking among fragrant grass' and 'Dreaming of empty mountains' not good?" Unfortunately, her two lines "How can one convey the mountain's meaning" and "How can spring light be diluted" once again leave the orchid speechless in response. The lines "green fades completely" and "pink delicately outlines" are indeed profound. Though there are cleverly vivid lines such as "lip rouge" and "bangles," they cannot surpass her. The word "gong" (offer) is rendered marvelously, and the word "can" (wilted) is truly divine in its expression. "There are still many excellent lines afterward, but when counted, they all fall short." Daiyu said, "The lines 'Looking without tiring' and 'Sitting unwilling to move' in 'Facing Orchids' are also wonderful." Xiangyun said, "Even the single line 'Calling you pine roots' is divine." Daiyu said, "The poems 'Orchid Shadow,' and 'Orchid Dream are especially wonderful; they express profound insight." "I had always known from the beginning that she was detached and transcendent, ever since I saw her name Zhenxia." At this moment, all the sisters once again recited and appreciated the poems for a while before finally sitting down to the meal. Everyone praised this river fish, which was indeed an exceptional delicacy; they all ate heartily and also enjoyed a great variety of fresh fruits. Li Wan suddenly smiled and said, "Bao Xiongde, I remember that you once gave me a poem about crabs. Why not now compose a 'River Pufferfish Poem' to match?" |
| 56 | 寶玉笑道：「不過取笑罷。」就取筆寫道：江千異品數鮐，萬里風帆日下來。蘆蕨掘殘潮雪上，楊花落遍浪雲開。應教橄欖堆千顆，詎惜盧醑瀉百杯。莫艷荔枝登北地，有誰攜此到燕臺。黛玉笑道：「比從前《螃蟹詩》似乎像樣些。」李紈道：「也好呢。」寶玉笑道：「你同寶姐姐也照舊作一首。」黛玉道：「先請教寶姐姐吧。」寶釵笑道：「我比他好得有限呢。」 Baoyu smiled and said, "It was just for fun." He took up a brush and wrote: "Among the myriad species of the river, the tai fish is unique; wind-swept sails travel thousands of miles, coming down each day." "Reeds and ferns dug bare on the snowy tide, willow fluff falls everywhere as waves part the clouds." "One should gather thousands of olive fruits; how could one regret pouring hundreds of cups of Lu xiu wine?" "Do not admire lychees brought northward—how many have ever carried this delicacy to Yantai?" Daiyu smiled and said, "This seems more refined than your previous 'Crab Poem.'" Li Wan said, "It's quite good." Baoyu smiled and said, "You and Bao Meimei should also compose one as before." Daiyu said, "Let me first invite Bao Meimei to recite hers." Baochai smiled and said, "I can only compose something slightly better than he did." |
| 57 | 寶釵隨即口占道：妙溯鮐楊子津，江南風味擅三春。常同半苦蘆芽薦，舊與回甘諫果陳。浴盡井華疑頓釋，調來姜露訝何因。世間毒甚河魚味，既飽歡娛未惜身。黛玉也口占道：蘆筍牙肥綱細穿，喜看出清淵。群分燕尾方名辨，品汰魚食譜傳。融珀膏流雲液潤，凝脂乳滑雪花旋。漫嫌唐突西施甚，應別煙波過別船。寶玉說：「好極了。」李紈笑道：「一個誚古，一個諷今，倒也工力相敵。」寶玉道：「林妹妹、寶姐姐，我到衙門裏去考都不怕，單單地怕定了你們這一班。怪不道你們代筆的，沒人考得過了。」說得眾人大笑起來。直說笑到下午方散。 Baochai immediately recited: "Marveling at tai fish from Yangzi, the Jiangnan flavors excel in spring." "Often paired with bitter reed shoots, once served with sweet-tasting fruits as offerings." "Washed in well water, the mystery is suddenly resolved; seasoned with ginger dew, one wonders at its cause." "In this world, the flavor of river fish is most dangerous; having feasted and enjoyed, one no longer spares his body." Daiyu also recited: "Reed shoots grow fat as fine nets pierce through; joyfully watching them emerge from clear depths." "Their tails like swallows' distinguish their kind, and recipes for fish are passed down in detail." "Amber-like fat flows with cloud-soft moisture; congealed milk-white flesh swirls like snowflakes." "Do not resent the boldness of Xi Shi too much; one should distinguish between misty waves and other passing boats." Baoyu said, "That's excellent!" Li Wan smiled and said, "One mocks the ancients, while the other satirizes the present; their craftsmanship is evenly matched." Baoyu said, "Lin Meimei and Bao Meimei, I would not fear going to the government office for an examination at all, but I am especially afraid of you two." "No wonder no one can pass your examinations when you write on their behalf!" This made everyone laugh heartily. They continued laughing and chatting until the afternoon, when they finally dispersed. |
| 58 | 這大觀園裏一眾姊妹們玩這些蘭花直到了二月盡邊，方纔收拾過去，重新在凹晶館搭起那七間捲篷。到了三月初，環兒吉期也近了，黛玉不免到議事處同紫鵑、晴雯、鶯兒忙了好幾天，也教襲人幫著照應。王春人也時常問些親事零碎，也便各色齊全，只是賈政還惱環兒不許見面。虧得林良玉、姜景星拉了賈赦同來。再三勸釋，硬叫他上來。賈政還氣得要打，又是眾人再三勸開。從此賈環始敢上來請安，賈政也不問他什麼言語。到了吉期，只得將收了彩雲的話回明，賈政也沒法了。那邊王親家處也慕賈家的勢，費了數千金贈奩。到這吉期，一樣也唱戲受賀，請客人待新婦。仲妃也遣人送賀禮出來。 The sisters in the Grand View Garden continued to enjoy these orchids until the end of February, when they finally packed up and moved on. They once again set up the seven-roofed pavilion at Aojing Pavilion. By early March, Huan'er's wedding date was drawing near. Daiyu could not help but go to the administrative office and spend several busy days with Zijuan, Qingwen, Ying'er, and also asked Xiaren to assist in overseeing matters. Wang Chunren also frequently asked about various details of the wedding arrangements, and everything was prepared in full. However, Jia Zheng still forbade Huan'er from meeting anyone. Fortunately, Lin Liangyu and Jiang Jingxing managed to bring Jia She along. After repeated persuasion, they insisted on bringing him up. Jia Zheng was so angry that he wanted to beat Huan'er, but once again the others persuaded him repeatedly and calmed the situation. From then on, Jia Huan dared to come up and pay his respects, but Jia Zheng did not speak a word to him. On the wedding day, they had no choice but to inform Jia Zheng about having accepted Caiyun's dowry. Jia Zheng had no alternative but to accept it. On the other side, Wang Qinjia's family also admired Jia Family's status and spent thousands of gold pieces as dowry gifts. On the wedding day, just like any other celebration, plays were performed and guests were invited to congratulate them and entertain the newlywed bride. Zhong Fei also sent people to present congratulatory gifts. |
| 59 | 這賈環之妻王氏，小名順娟，性情倒也溫良，只是面貌十分醜陋，麻臉大口，一雙白花眼睛，身軀偉岸包得下環哥兒。環兒甚不得意，只得將心腹托與彩雲。順娟小家女子，談吐蠢俗。王夫人倒也諒她，只是排在李紈、寶釵、黛玉之後，真個不配。又沒見世面，瞧見不識的物事，逐件要問。惹得老婆子小丫頭們暗地裏笑她，黛玉等背後常拿她做個笑話兒。王夫人打量著眾姊妹們都不入隊，尤怕黛玉瞧不起她，就悄悄地拉住黛玉說道：「不是這樣一個呢，人家也不肯給環兒。若是要教她費氣力，她也還自己知道分兒，安頓穩重，你只瞧她學到那裏，隨時提提她便了。」 Jia Huan's wife, Lady Wang, whose childhood name was Shunjuan, had a gentle and kind nature. However, her appearance was extremely ugly—pockmarked face, wide mouth, and two pale eyes. Her tall and sturdy figure easily overshadowed Huan'geer. Huan'er was very unhappy about the marriage and had no choice but to entrust his innermost thoughts to Caiyun. Shunjuan, a daughter of a humble family, spoke in an awkward and vulgar manner. Lady Wang was somewhat lenient toward her, but she ranked behind Li Wan, Baochai, and Daiyu—truly an unfit match. She had never seen the world before; upon seeing unfamiliar things, she would ask about each one in turn. This provoked the old maids and young maidservants to secretly laugh at her, while Daiyu and others often used her as a subject for private jokes. Lady Wang, noticing that none of the sisters were suitable for Huan'er and especially fearing that Daiyu looked down on her, quietly pulled Daiyu aside and said, "If it weren't for a girl like this one, no family would be willing to give their daughter to Huan'er." "If you want her to exert effort, she is still aware of her own limits and will behave properly. You just need to observe how far she learns and remind her from time to time." |
| 60 | 黛玉知道王夫人的意思，也就一口答應。這順娟也還懂得，就自己在房裏學些針指，不同他們玩兒。倒也跟著王夫人服侍，王夫人到薛姨媽家，也跟著走走。只有寶玉笑說道：生平慕的是女孩兒，原來也有這一個，還是做一個臭小子。」 Daiyu understood Lady Wang's intention and readily agreed. Shunjuan also showed some understanding, choosing to stay in her room learning needlework instead of playing with the others. She even followed Lady Wang around as a servant, and when Lady Wang visited Auntie Xue, she went along too. Only Baoyu laughed and said, "All my life I have admired girls; it turns out there is such a one after all—but she ended up being the daughter of an ugly little boy." |
| 61 | 漸漸的三月往後，牡丹開起來。各處的牡丹臺遮了錦幔，掛了花鈴。賈政公事也清閒，就請王親家來會親。排日間開席請酒。北靖王、南安郡王知道了，也要攜樽過來。慌得賈政盛飾請了一天。兩班文武班輪流唱戲，直鬧到三更時分，方纔席散。虧得牡丹還盛，纔開到七八分。寶釵就說：「從前芍藥開時，虧得雲妹妹醉眠了，花片沒有辜負她。咱們在這牡丹花上，也覺得淡泊些。你看魏紫、姚黃開得那樣富麗，咱們雖不奉承它的富貴，也要體諒著春工的意思。」 As March gradually passed, the peonies began to bloom. Peony pavilions in various places were draped with brocade canopies and adorned with floral bells. Jia Zheng, having some free time from official duties, invited Uncle Wang to a family gathering. Banquets and wine were arranged day after day. Prince Bei Jing and Prince Nan An Jun Wang, having learned of this, also wished to bring their cups and join the celebration. This greatly alarmed Jia Zheng, who then lavishly prepared and hosted a banquet for one day. The civil and military officials took turns performing plays, and the revelry continued until past three o'clock in the morning before the banquet finally ended. Fortunately, the peonies were still in full bloom, having opened to about seven or eight tenths of their fullness. Baochai said, "In the past, when the peonies bloomed, it was fortunate that Yun's younger sister fell into a drunken sleep; the petals did not go to waste on her." But with these peonies, we feel somewhat more detached. Look at how luxuriantly the Wei Zi and Yao Huang peonies bloom. Although we may not flatter their opulence, we should still appreciate the intention of spring's craftsmanship." |
| 62 | 史湘雲笑道：「我就醉了一場，惹你們牽扳到而今，這牡丹也不要賞了。你們不知道，前日鳳妹妹說，她有一件絕好的物事，等官客們不來，她就帶到牡丹花最熱鬧的地方來，玩給眾人瞧。我再三問她，她說還要等兩日纔有。問她什麼事物，她不說。敢則我倒知道了。」黛玉笑道：「誰還能瞞過你。到底是什麼玩兒？」湘雲道：「自然瞧見了再說纔有趣。」 Shi Xiangyun laughed and said, "I once got drunk and caused you all to bring it up until now; I don't want to admire these peonies either." "You don't know," she said, "the other day Feng's younger sister mentioned that she has an absolutely wonderful thing. Once the official guests are gone, she will bring it to the most lively place among the peonies and show it off for everyone." I asked her repeatedly, but she said she still needed to wait a couple more days. When I asked what it was, she wouldn't say. "I think I might know what it is," said someone. Daiyu laughed and said, "Who could possibly keep anything from you?" "So what exactly is it that you know?" Xiangyun said, "It will be more interesting to talk about it after we see it." |
| 63 | 寶玉聽不得一聲，就趕過去催著喜鳳。好半日才回來，說是鳳妹妹古怪得很，斷不肯說，只說兩日後斷有的。到第三日，果真喜鳳同喜鸞過來。約了王夫人、眾姊妹、寶玉到錦香亭。便有丫頭拿了好些竹筐過來。喜鳳就叫逐筐子打開了，只見筐子裏飛出無數蝴蝶來，也有芭蕉扇大的，也有碗大的，還有無數小的，也有五彩顏色各樣花紋，也有渾金色、渾黑色，真個璀璨陸離，飄飄漾漾，只在花台上盤旋往來。太陽耀著，那些牡丹花也就順著風兒顫搖搖的，引著這些蝶兒如雲錦一樣。寶玉哪曾瞧過，喜得了不得，只說：「誰也不許去拿它，留它在這裡養小蝴蝶呢。」 Baoyu could not bear the suspense and hurried over to urge Xi Feng. After a long while, he finally returned, saying that Young Miss Feng was very strange and absolutely refused to say anything, only mentioning that it would definitely be there in two days. On the third day, as expected, Xi Feng came over with Xiluan. They invited Lady Wang, all the sisters, and Baoyu to Jinxiang Pavilion. Then some maidservants brought over a number of bamboo baskets. Xi Feng ordered the baskets to be opened one by one. Out flew countless butterflies—some as big as banana-leaf fans, others as large as bowls, and many tiny ones too. They came in all sorts of colors and patterns: some with five-colored hues, others entirely golden or black. Truly dazzling and colorful, they fluttered gracefully around the flower pavilion, circling to and fro. The sunlight shone brightly, causing the peonies to sway gently in the breeze, luring these butterflies like a cloud of brocade. Baoyu had never seen anything like this before and was overjoyed, exclaiming, "No one is allowed to catch them. Let them stay here to raise baby butterflies." |
| 64 | 眾人問她哪裏來的，喜鸞纔說是姜妹夫問一個廣東同年要來的羅浮仙蝶繭。王夫人也喜歡，就排開席來，大家吃過了。這裏正在喜歡，忽然說內閣有信，傳寶玉同良玉、景星。寶玉只得阻了興，冠帶而去。王夫人等不放心，就同眾姊妹來到上房裏來。下午寶玉回來，方知道派了纂修的書，每日五更便須趕進去辦事。王夫人等俱各歡喜，只有寶玉、黛玉心裏十分怏怏。隨後賈政回來，將寶玉勉勵教訓了好些語言，吩咐他：「不知道的便請教兩位姊夫，遇了前輩只管虛心，稟請一個教益，就不能在總裁面前見長，總要盡心竭力，刻刻認真。」 When the others asked where they came from, Xiluan finally revealed that Uncle Jiang had obtained them by asking an old classmate from Guangdong for Luofu Fairy Butterfly Cocoons. Lady Wang also liked it and arranged a banquet, after which everyone enjoyed the meal together. Just as they were enjoying themselves, someone suddenly announced that there was news from the cabinet summoning Baoyu along with Liangyu and Jingxing. Baoyu had no choice but to leave his enjoyment behind, dressed in official attire as he went. Lady Wang and the others felt uneasy and so came with all the sisters to the main hall. In the afternoon, Baoyu returned and learned that he had been assigned a position as an editor of historical records, requiring him to go in for work at dawn every day. Lady Wang and the others were all delighted, but Baoyu and Daiyu felt deeply unhappy in their hearts. Soon after, Jia Zheng returned and gave Baoyu a long lecture of encouragement and instruction. He told him, "If you don't know something, be sure to consult your two elder brothers-in-law. When meeting senior officials, always remain humble and seek their guidance. Even if you cannot stand out before the chief editor, you must still do your utmost and work diligently at all times." |
| 65 | 寶玉答應了是。又叫黛玉，每四鼓催他吃物事上車。黛玉口雖答應，幾乎落下淚來。寶玉就回到瀟湘館，同黛玉談了一夜，倒像個久別離家的光景，從此寶玉便日日進朝。這大觀園姊妹們也為的寶玉不在家，無心遊玩，不過彼此往來談論些書卷針指而已。直過了端午節後，誰想賈政、寶玉又派了隨駕出差。王夫人等心裏益發驚慌。這孩子長得這麼大了，從沒離過女人，便怎麼好。黛玉心裏益發驚慌，倒是寶釵走過來再三地勸黛玉道：「林妹妹，不要呆了，他整日間在我們隊裏混，等他出去歷練歷練纔好。」 Baoyu nodded in agreement. He also instructed Daiyu to wake him up at four drum beats each day and prepare food for his journey to the carriage. Though Daiyu verbally agreed, she was almost moved to tears. Baoyu returned to Xiaoxiang Pavilion and spent the whole night talking with Daiyu, their parting feeling like that of a long separation. From then on, Baoyu began going to court every day. The sisters in the Grand View Garden also lost interest in playing and touring, since Baoyu was no longer at home. They merely visited each other to discuss books or needlework. It wasn't until after the Dragon Boat Festival that they unexpectedly received another assignment—Jia Zheng and Baoyu were both sent on a mission to accompany the imperial procession. Lady Wang and others grew even more anxious in their hearts. This child has grown so big, yet he's never been away from women—how could that possibly be good? Daiyu's heart grew even more anxious, but Baochai came over and repeatedly advised her, saying, "Young Miss Lin, don't be so upset. He has been mixing around with us all the time; it is only right for him to go out and gain some experience." |
| 66 | 黛玉帶著哭低低地道：「我打算叫襲人跟他去。」寶釵大笑道：「林妹妹，你這個人說出這個話來，還虧告訴我，不然時天下人通笑死了。誰見隨駕的官兒帶著家眷走？襲人又會昭君出塞的騎牲口？你不要說了，臊死了。」黛玉揉眼道：「曹先生呢？」寶釵道：「未必肯。告訴你放心，現在跟著老爺走。」黛玉泣道：「身子熬不起些。」寶釵笑道：「遊方和尚也熬過了。」黛玉也無可奈何，只與寶玉兩個依依不舍。寶玉也泣道：「好妹妹，你不要在老爺太太面前說我戀著你。」黛玉只管泣著點頭。到了起身之日，賈政就衙門裡一直長行，叫人催著寶玉。這裏黛玉、晴雯最是割舍不得，紫娟、鶯兒也只背地裏掩淚，獨有寶釵大方。王夫人也再三拉住了叮囑。賈璉再三來催。林之孝又傳賈政的言語來，說的在打尖的地方等著。寶玉只得出門，臨行還幾遍地含淚兒回望黛玉。黛玉就睡了好幾天不起身，惹得史湘雲來笑她，說她好個修仙學道的人兒。黛玉也不能駮回了。從此時常寄信，刻刻望寶玉回來。直到七月裏，父子兩人換班回來，合家大喜。寶玉請了太太的安，望過了寶釵，略略站一站說幾句，就奔到瀟湘館來。見了黛玉大笑道：「也有回來的日子。」黛玉笑道：「你記得從前上學回來，也說這個。」寶玉大笑。從此一門聚樂，說不盡的快活。 Daiyu, her voice low and filled with tears, said softly, "I was planning to have Xi Ren go with him." Baochai burst out laughing and said, "Young Miss Lin, I can't believe you actually suggested such a thing. If I hadn't been told about it, the whole world would have laughed to death." "Who has ever seen an official accompanying the imperial procession take his family along?" 藟 Xiren would she know how to ride like Wang Zhaojun going beyond the frontier? "Don't say anything more—it's too embarrassing." Daiyu rubbed her eyes and asked, "Where is Master Cao?" Baochai replied, "He might not be willing." "Don't worry," she said. "He is currently accompanying the master on his journey." Daiyu wept and said, "I can't endure the strain of it." Baochai smiled and said, "Even wandering monks have endured hardships." Daiyu had no choice but to accept it and could only part from Baoyu with deep reluctance. Baoyu wept as well and said, "Dear sister, don't say in front of Master or Madam that I am attached to you." Daiyu only continued to weep and nod. On the day of departure, Jia Zheng left directly from his office for a long journey, having someone urge Baoyu along. At this moment, Daiyu and Qingwen were the most reluctant to part. Zi Juan and Ying'er also wept secretly behind closed doors, while only Baochai remained composed and graceful. Lady Wang also repeatedly held Baoyu back to give him instructions. Jia Lian came to urge them repeatedly as well. Lin Zhishou also delivered Jia Zheng's message, saying they were waiting at the rest stop ahead. Baoyu had no choice but leave the house, and as he departed, he turned back several times with tears in his eyes to look at Daiyu. Daiyu lay in bed for several days without getting up, which led Shi Xiangyun to tease her, calling her a fine person practicing cultivation and Daoist ways. Daiyu could not refute this either. From then on, she often sent letters and longed for Baoyu's return every moment. It wasn't until July that father and son returned from their shift, bringing great joy to the entire family. Baoyu paid his respects to Madam, greeted Baochai briefly with a few words, and then hurried straight to Xiaoxiang Pavilion. Seeing Daiyu, he laughed heartily and said, "So there is finally a day I return." Daiyu smiled and said, "You used to say the same thing when you came back from school before." Baoyu burst out laughing. From then on, the entire household rejoiced together, enjoying endless happiness and joy beyond words. |
| 67 | 一日，賈政下衙門回來，王夫人問道：「下午不出門去？」賈政道：「要在家裡候一位客人。」王夫人問：「是什麼客？」賈政道：「前日北靖王在朝裏，當面說起有一位南方先生，高明得很，姓張號梅隱，卜得好蓍，靈得了不得。性情也古板得很，不肯受謝儀，只是勸人為善。請他占卦的，他總要勸你，依著他行幾件善事兒，在神前立了誓，他方纔替你占卜。他也並不募勸什麼財物去，只指著眼前地方上的好事情，叫你做一兩件。他也無室無家，孤雲野鶴，露宿風餐。你說這個人可敬不可敬？」 One day, after Jia Zheng returned from his office, Lady Wang asked him, "Are you not going out this afternoon?" Jia Zheng replied, "I need to stay home and wait for a guest." Lady Wang asked, "What kind of guest is it?" Jia Zheng said, "The other day, Prince Bei Jing mentioned in court that there is a very talented scholar from the south. His surname is Zhang and his courtesy name is Meiyin. He is excellent at divination with yarrow stalks and is extremely perceptive." He also has a very old-fashioned personality, refusing to accept any gifts of thanks, only encouraging people to do good. Anyone who asked him for divination had to first listen to his advice and perform a few good deeds as he instructed. Only after making an oath before the gods would he agree to cast the oracle for them. He did not ask for any material offerings, but simply pointed out a couple of good deeds in the local area and asked you to do them. He had no home or family, living like a solitary cloud and wild crane, sleeping under the open sky and eating in the wind. "What do you think of this man—should he be respected or not?" |
| 68 | 王夫人道：「你可曾見他？」賈政道：「為什麼沒有見過，濃眉鳳目，大鼻方口，長方面，一部長鬚，雪白的，有精神得很。穿件藍綢衣服兒，走一步真個地飄然有神仙之氣。」王夫人道：「你請他占什麼卦？」賈政道：「占個家宅平安便了。」王夫人道：「我有一句話道沒有告訴第二人，這幾天瞧著林姑娘愛吃點了酸味兒，叫璉兒請王太醫去診診脈，說影響兒也沒有。還是醫家平常呢，還是真個沒有信兒。你為什麼不請他占這一件？」賈政點頭說：「很是的。」坐談了一會，就有吳新登通報，張師爺進來，賈政便迎出。不知張梅隱卜卦如何，且聽下回分解。 Lady Wang asked, "Have you met him yet?" Jia Zheng said, "How could I not have met him? He has thick eyebrows and phoenix-like eyes, a large nose and square mouth. His face is long and oval-shaped, with a long beard as white as snow—very spirited indeed." He wore a blue silk robe, and every step he took truly exuded an ethereal aura of a divine being. Lady Wang asked, "What kind of divination did you ask him to do?" Jia Zheng replied, "I only had him cast a hexagram for the safety and peace of our household." Lady Wang said, "I have a piece of information I haven't told anyone else. These past few days, I noticed that Lin'er has been craving something sour. I had Lianer invite Doctor Wang to examine her pulse, and he said there was no sign of any illness." It could be just the doctor's usual caution, or it might truly mean that there is nothing to worry about. "Why didn't you ask him to cast a hexagram for this matter?" Jia Zheng nodded and said, "That's very true." After chatting for a while, Wu Xindeng announced the arrival of Master Zhang. Jia Zheng immediately stepped out to greet him. What kind of oracle did Master Zhang Meiyin cast? Stay tuned for the next chapter. |
URN: ctp:ws806347
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