《第二回老御史為兒謀婦 Chapter 2: The Old Magistrate Plans a Wife for His Son》[查看正文] [修改] [查看歷史]

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1	詩曰： The poem says:
2	憑君傳語寄登徒，只合人間媚野狐。 Please convey my words to Dengtu, for you are only fit to charm the wild foxes of the mortal world.
3	若有佳人懷吉士，從無淑女愛愚夫。 If there is a beautiful woman who cherishes an upright man, then there has never been a virtuous maiden who loves a foolish husband.
4	甘心合處錦添錦，強得圓時觚不觚。 With willing hearts, they dwell together like adding brocade to brocade; forcefully made whole, it is no longer a true measure—like a vessel that is not truly a vessel.
5	莫再鑿空旋妄想，任他才色兩相圖。 Do not carve in vain or spin idle fantasies; let them plot both talent and beauty as they will.
6	話說楊御史自從在白公衙裡賞菊飲酒，見了白小姐詩句，便思量要求與兒子為妻。原來楊御史有一子一女，兒子叫做楊芳，年纔二十歲，人物雖不甚醜，只是文章學問難對人言。賴楊御史之力替他夤緣，到中了江南鄉試，因會試不中，就隨在任上讀書。楊御史雖懷此心，卻知道白公為人執拗，在女婿上留心選擇，輕易開口決不能成。再三思想，並無計策。 It was said that since Magistrate Yang, after attending a chrysanthemum-viewing banquet at Bai Gong's official residence and reading Miss Bai's poetry, had been considering the idea of marrying her to his son. Originally, Magistrate Yang had one son and one daughter. His son was named Yang Fang, who was only twenty years old; although his appearance was not particularly ugly, his literary talent and scholarship were difficult to speak of openly. Thanks to Magistrate Yang's efforts in helping him make connections, he managed to pass the Jiangnan provincial examination. However, since he failed the metropolitan examination, he continued studying while accompanying his father on official duty. Although Magistrate Yang harbored this intention, he knew that Bai Gong was a stubborn man who carefully selected his son-in-law; thus, it would be impossible to succeed merely by making a casual request. After thinking about it repeatedly, he could come up with no plan at all.
7	忽一日拜客回來，剛到衙門首，只見一青衣人，手捧著一封書，跪在路旁稟道：「浙江王爺有信，候問老爺。」楊御史看見便問：「是吏部王爺麼？」青衣人答道：「正是吏部王爺。」楊御史隨叫長班接了書，吩咐來人伺候。遂下馬進到私衙內，一面脫去官服，一面就拆開書看。只見上面寫著： One day, as he returned from paying a visit to guests, just upon arriving at the entrance of the official residence, he saw a man dressed in blue robes kneeling by the roadside with a letter in hand and reported: "The Prince of Zhejiang has sent a letter to inquire after you, sir." Magistrate Yang saw this and asked, "Is it the Prince of the Ministry of Personnel?" The blue-robed man replied, "Yes, it is indeed the Prince of the Ministry." Magistrate Yang immediately called a servant to take the letter and ordered the messenger to be properly entertained. He then dismounted and entered his private residence, removing his official robes while at the same time opening the letter to read it. Inside, he saw written:
8	年弟王國謨頓首拜：弟自讓部歸來，不獲與年臺聚首於京師者，春忽冬矣。年臺霜威嚴肅，百僚丕振，而清透人聞之，曷勝欣仰。茲者，同鄉友人廖德明，原係儒者，既精風鑑，復善星平，往往有前知之妙，弟頗重之。今挾策遊長安，敢獻之門下，以為蓍龜之一助。幸賜盼睞而吹噓焉，感不獨在廖生也。草草奉瀆不宣。 Your junior brother Wang Guomo bows respectfully: Since my return from the Ministry, I have been unable to meet with you in the capital; spring has suddenly turned into winter. Your honor's dignified and solemn authority has invigorated the entire bureaucracy, and the people have heard of your integrity; how can I express my joy and admiration? Now, a fellow townsman and friend named Liao Deming, originally a scholar, is not only skilled in geomancy but also proficient in astrology; he often possesses the wondrous ability to foresee events. I hold him in high regard. Now, as he travels with his knowledge to Chang'an, I dare recommend him to your door, so that he may serve as an assistant in divination. I hope you will kindly look upon and support him; my gratitude would not be limited to Liao Sheng alone. This is a hastily written letter, so I refrain from further elaboration.
9	楊御史看完了書，知道是薦星相之士，撇不過同年的情面，只得吩咐長班道：「你去看王爺薦的那位廖相公可在外面，如在，可請他進來。」長班出去不多時，先拿名帖進來稟道：「廖相公請進來了。」須臾，只見一人從階下走上來。怎生模樣，但見： After reading the letter, Magistrate Yang realized that it was a recommendation for an astrologer. Unable to refuse the favor of his fellow examinee from the same year, he had no choice but to order the servant: "You go and check whether Mr. Liao recommended by the Prince is still outside; if so, please invite him in." The servant did not take long to return and first presented a visiting card while reporting: "Mr. Liao has been invited in." In no time, a man was seen coming up from the steps below. What kind of appearance did he have? Let me describe:
10	頭戴方巾，身穿野服。頭戴方巾，強賴做斯文一脈。身穿野服，假裝出隱逸三分。髭鬚短而不長，有類蓬蓬亂草。眼睛大而欠秀，渾如落落彈丸。見了人前趨後拱，渾身都是廉恭。說話時左顧右盼，滿臉盡皆勢利。雖然以星客為名，倒全靠逢仰作主。 He wore a square cap on his head and plain civilian clothes on his body. Wearing a square cap, he feigned himself as part of the literati tradition. Dressed in plain civilian clothes, he pretended to be a hermit with an air of seclusion. His beard was short rather than long, resembling tangled weeds. His eyes were large but lacked refinement, looking like scattered marbles. When he met people, he bowed forward and clasped his hands behind him; every part of his body exuded humility and courtesy. While speaking, he glanced left and right; every inch of his face was full of worldly ambition and self-interest. Although he claimed to be an astrologer by profession, in fact, everything depended entirely on flattery and fawning.
11	楊御史見了，即迎進廳來，見畢禮，分賓主坐下。廖德明先開口說道：「久仰台光，無緣進謁。今蒙王老先生介紹，得賜登龍，喜出望外。」楊御史道：「王年兄書中，甚推高明有道，今接芝字，果是不凡。」須臾茶罷，楊御史又問道：「兄抱此異術而來，京師中相知必多。」廖德明道：「晚生素性硜守，懶於干人。雖還有幾封薦書，晚生恐怕賢愚不等，為人所輕也，未必去了。今日謁過老先生，明日也只好還去見見敝鄉的陳相公、余少保、石都督、白太常三四位賢卿相罷了。」 Magistrate Yang saw him and immediately led him into the hall. After completing the formalities of courtesy, they sat down with the guest and host properly arranged. Liao Deming spoke first: "I have long admired your honor's reputation, but until now had no opportunity to pay my respects. Today I am honored by the introduction of Master Wang and have been granted this opportunity, which is beyond my wildest expectations." Magistrate Yang said: "In the letter from my senior colleague Wang, he highly praised your wisdom and virtue. Now that I have met you in person, it is indeed true that you are extraordinary." After a while the tea was finished, Magistrate Yang asked again: "Brother has come with such an unusual skill; there must be many people in the capital who know you." Liao Deming replied: "I have always been a man of simple and upright character, and I am lazy in seeking out others. Although I do have several letters of recommendation, the young man fears that people's wisdom and virtue vary greatly; for fear of being looked down upon by others, I may not necessarily go to visit them." "Today I have paid my respects to you, Master. Tomorrow, I suppose I will just go and visit a few of the virtuous officials from my hometown—Mr. Chen, Minister Yu, General Shi, and Minister Bai—as well."
12	楊御史聽見說要見白太常，便打動心事，因問道：「白太常莫不就是敞同年白太玄麼？」廖德明應道：「正是貴同年白老先生。」楊御史聽了，心中暗想道：「這段姻緣要在此人身上做得過脈。」因吩咐左右排飯，一面就邀廖德明往書房中坐住。廖德明道：「晚生初得識荊，尚未獻技，怎麼就好叨攪？」楊御史道：「若是他人，我學生也不輕留。兄乃高明之士，正有事請教。」遂同到書房中坐了。坐了一歇，廖德明就說道：「老先生請正尊容，待晚生觀一觀氣色何如？」楊御史道：「學生倒不消勞動，到是小兒有一八字求教求教罷。」廖德明道：「這個當得。」 Upon hearing that he was going to see Minister Bai, Magistrate Yang felt a stirring of thoughts and thus asked: "Is Minister Bai none other than my fellow examinee from the same class, Bai Taiyuan?" Liao Deming replied: "Yes, it is precisely your esteemed senior colleague, Master Bai." After hearing this, Magistrate Yang thought to himself: "This marriage arrangement might be made possible through this man." He then ordered the attendants to prepare a meal and invited Liao Deming to sit in his study. Liao Deming said, "I have just had the honor of making your acquaintance and have not yet presented my skills; how could I possibly be so presumptuous as to trouble you with a meal?" Magistrate Yang said, "If it were anyone else, my students would not have detained them lightly. But you are a man of great wisdom and talent; I have something to consult with you." With that, they went together into the study and sat down. After sitting for a while, Liao Deming said: "Please allow me to examine your honor's face and observe the complexion; let me see what it reveals." Magistrate Yang said: "I do not need to trouble you for my own sake, but rather I have my son's birth chart that I would like your advice on." Liao Deming replied: "That is certainly acceptable."
13	楊御史隨叫左右取過文房四寶，寫了四柱，遞與廖德明。廖德明細細看了一遍道：「令公子先生，這尊造八字清奇，五行相配，真如桂林一枝，崑山片玉，又兼計羅裁出恩星，少年登科自不必說。目下二十歲，尚在酉限，雖得頭角崢嶸，猶不為奇。若到二十五歲，運行丙子南方，看鳳池獨步，翰院邀遊，方是他得意之時。只是妻宮不宜太早，早了便有刑剋。」 Magistrate Yang then ordered his attendants to bring over the writing materials, wrote down the four pillars of birth, and handed them to Liao Deming. Liao Deming carefully examined it and said, "Your esteemed son's birth chart is extraordinary. The five elements are well balanced; it is truly like a single branch of the Gui forest or a piece of jade from Kunshan Mountain. Moreover, with the benevolent stars in favorable positions, his early success in the imperial examinations goes without saying. At present, he is twenty years old and still under the influence of the You period; although he has already begun to show promise, it is not yet remarkable. But when he reaches twenty-five years old and enters the flow of the Bingzi period in the south, then we shall see him walking alone at the Phoenix Pool and strolling freely in the Han Academy—this will be his time of true success. However, it is not advisable for him to marry too early; if he does so, there may be conflicts and misfortunes."
14	楊御史笑道：「算得准，算得准。小兒今春自會試不曾中得，發憤在衙讀書。每每與他議親，決決不肯認真，直要等中了進士，方肯議親。我只道他痴心妄想，原來命中應該如此。」廖德明道：「富貴皆命裏帶來，豈人力所能強求？」又問道：「貴公子難道從未曾娶過？」楊御史道：「曾定過敝鄉劉都堂的孫女，不料未過門就死了，所以直跟著蹉跎至今。」廖德明道：「既然剋過，這命纔准。只是後來這頭親事，須選個有福的夫人之命，方配得過。」 Magistrate Yang smiled and said: "You have calculated it accurately. You have indeed calculated it accurately. My son failed to pass the metropolitan examination this spring, and he has been studying diligently at the official residence with renewed determination. Whenever we have discussed marriage arrangements for him, he has always refused to take it seriously and insisted that he would only consider a marriage after passing the jinshi examination. I thought he was just indulging in idle fantasies, but now I see it is indeed so written in his destiny." Liao Deming said: "Wealth and honor are all brought by one's fate; how can they be forcefully pursued through human effort?" He then asked, "Has your young master never been married before?" Magistrate Yang replied: "He once had a betrothal with the granddaughter of Minister Liu from our hometown, but unfortunately she died before they could be married. That is why he has been delayed and put off until now." Liao Deming said: "Since there was a loss, this reading of the birth chart is indeed accurate. But for his future marriage, you must choose a wife with an auspicious destiny in order to be truly compatible."
15	正說著，左右擺上酒來。楊御史進了坐，二人坐下。一邊飲酒，一邊廖德明又問道：「令公子近日有甚宅院來議親麼？」楊御史道：「連日來議親者頗多，說來皆是富貴嬌痴，多不中小兒之意。近聞得白年兄有一令媛，容貌與才華俱稱絕世。前日學生在白年兄衙中飲酒，酒後分韻做詩，白年兄醉了未曾做得，他令媛就暗代他做了一首，清新秀美，使我輩同年中幾個老詩人俱動手不得。」 Just as they were speaking, the attendants brought out wine. Magistrate Yang took his seat, and the two of them sat down together. While drinking wine, Liao Deming asked again: "Recently, has any family come to discuss marriage arrangements for your young master?" Magistrate Yang said: "In recent days, quite a few families have come to discuss marriage. However, when it comes down to it, they are all rich and spoiled young ladies who do not suit my son's preferences at all." Recently I heard that Master Bai has a daughter, whose beauty and talent are both said to be unparalleled in the world. The other day, when I was drinking at Master Bai's official residence, after the wine flowed and we divided rhymes for a poetry contest, Master Bai, who had become drunk, failed to compose one. His daughter secretly composed a poem in his place; it was fresh and elegant, so much so that even several elder poets among my fellow examinees could not match her."
16	廖德明道：「白小姐既有如此才華，可謂仕女班頭，令公子又乃文章魁首，自是天地生成一對好夫妻；況老先生與白公又係同年，正是門當戶對，何不倩媒一說？」楊御史道：「此雖美事，只是敞同年這老先生性有些古怪，他要求人，便千肯萬肯，你要求他，便推三阻四，偏有許多話說，所以學生不屑下氣，先去開口。這兩日聞知他擇婿甚急，若得其中有一相知，將小兒才學細細說與此老知道，使此老心肯意肯，然後遣媒一說，便容易成了。」廖德明道：「老先生所見最高，只是晚生人微言輕不足取信。明日往候白公時，倘有機會，細細將令公子這等雄才大志說與他知。」楊御史道：「既有此高情，切不可說出是學生之意。」廖德明笑道：「這個晚生曉得，這也不獨為令公子求此淑女，送這等一箇佳婿與白公，還是他的便宜。」 Liao Deming said: "Miss Bai, with such talent, can be called the foremost among ladies of the gentry. Your young master is also a leading figure in literary circles; they are truly a perfect match made by heaven and earth. Moreover, you and Master Bai are fellow examinees from the same year—this is clearly a case of equal social standing and mutual suitability. Why not ask a matchmaker to make the proposal?" Magistrate Yang said: "This is indeed a fine match, but my fellow examinee Master Bai has somewhat eccentric character. When he seeks something from others, they are willing to agree a thousand times over; however, if you seek him out, he will find all sorts of excuses and raise many objections. Therefore, I have not yet deigned to humble myself by making the first move." "I have recently heard that he is urgently seeking a son-in-law. If we can find someone who knows him well and carefully explain my son's talents to this old man, making him genuinely willing in heart and mind, then sending a matchmaker would make the matter much easier to settle." Liao Deming said: "Your honor has the highest insight, but I am afraid that my humble status and light words are not enough to be trusted. "When I visit Master Bai tomorrow, if the opportunity arises, I will carefully explain to him about your young master's great talents and lofty aspirations." Magistrate Yang said: "Since you are so kind-hearted, please do not mention that it is my intention." Liao Deming smiled and said: "This, the young man understands. It is not only for your son to seek such a virtuous lady, but also because offering such an excellent son-in-law to Master Bai would be beneficial for him as well."
17	二人說得大悅，又飲了數杯，方纔吃完飯，廖德明就告辭起身。楊御史道：「尊寓在何處？尚未曾回拜。」廖德明道：「小窩暫寄在浙直會館，怎敢重勞台駕。」說畢，送出廳來，到了門前，楊御史又囑咐道：「此事若成，決當重謝。」廖德明道：「不敢。」方纔別去。正是： The two men were very pleased with the conversation and drank several more cups before finishing their meal. Afterward, Liao Deming took his leave and rose to go. Magistrate Yang asked: "Where is your residence?" "I have not yet had the chance to visit you in return." Liao Deming replied: "I am temporarily staying at the Zhezhi Guild Hall; how could I dare to trouble your honor with a visit?" After saying this, he escorted Liao Deming out of the hall and to the front gate. Magistrate Yang then gave further instructions: "If this matter is successfully arranged, I shall certainly give you a generous reward." Liao Deming replied: "I dare not accept such gratitude." With that, he took his leave. Indeed:
18	曲人到處皆奸巧，詭士從來只詐謀。 Wherever schemers go, they are full of deceit and cunning; from the beginning, sly men have only resorted to trickery.
19	豈料天心原有定，空勞明月下金鉤。 Who would have thought that Heaven's will is already determined? In vain do they cast golden hooks beneath the bright moonlight.
20	楊御史送了廖德明，回衙不題。且說廖德明受了楊御史之託，巴不得成就此事，就有托身之地。回到館中，宿了一夜，次早起身梳洗畢，收拾些乾飯吃了，依舊叫家人拏了王吏部的薦書，竟往白太常的私衙而來。 Magistrate Yang bid farewell to Liao Deming and returned to his official residence; no more will be said about this for now. Let us turn our attention to Liao Deming, who had accepted Magistrate Yang's commission and was eager to accomplish this matter, as it would give him a place to establish himself. After returning to the guild hall, he stayed there for a night. The next morning, after getting up and washing himself, he ate some dry rice, then packed up again and had his servant take along the letter of recommendation from Minister Wang before heading directly toward Minister Bai's private residence.
21	到了衙前，先將王吏部的書投進去，等了一會兒，方見一個長班出來相請。廖德明進到廳上，又坐了一歇，白公方纔出來相見。敘過了來意，吃了茶，白公便問道：「王年兄稱先生風鑑如神，但學生衰朽之夫，豈足以當大觀。」廖德明道：「老先生道光德譽，天下景仰，非晚生末學所能淺窺。倘不棄鄙陋，請正台顏，容晚生仰測一二。」 Upon arriving at the front of the official residence, he first sent in Minister Wang's letter. After waiting for a while, an attendant finally came out to invite him in. Liao Deming entered the hall and sat there for a moment before Minister Bai finally appeared to greet him. After exchanging greetings and drinking tea, Minister Bai asked: "My senior colleague Master Wang praised you as having supernatural insight in geomancy. But I am but an old and decrepit man; how could I possibly deserve such a distinguished visit?" Liao Deming replied: "Your honor's moral virtue and illustrious reputation are revered throughout the land; they are far beyond what a humble student like me could ever hope to fathom. "If you would not disdain my ignorance, please allow me to examine your countenance and offer a few humble observations."
22	白公將椅子向上移了一移，轉過臉來道：「君子問災不問福，請先生勿隱。」廖德明定晴細細看了一晌，因說道：「觀公神凝形正，儼然有山岳之氣象。更兼雙眉分聳入鬢，兩眼炯炯如寒星，為人一生高傲，行事清奇古怪，處艱難最有膽量，遇患難極重義氣。最妙在準頭隆直，五岳朝歸，這富貴只怕今生享他不盡。只惜神太清了，神清則傷子嗣。說便是這等說，卻喜地閣豐厚，到底不是孤相，將來或是猶子，或是半子，當自有一番奇遇，轉高出尋常箕裘之外。」白公嘆道：「學生子息上久已絕望，若得個半子相依，晚年之願足矣。若說眼前這些富貴，不瞞先生說，真不異浮雲敝屣。」廖德明道：「據老先生之高懷，雖不戀此，若據晚生相中看來，這富貴正無了期，子息上雖非親生，另有一番奇遇。目下印堂紅黑交侵，若不見喜，必有小災，卻不妨。老先生可牢記此言，到明日驗了，方知晚生不是面欺。」白公道：「多承指教，敢不心佩。」正相畢，左右又喚了一道茶來。 Minister Bai moved his chair slightly upward, turned toward him and said: "A gentleman inquires about misfortunes rather than blessings; please do not withhold anything from me, Master." Liao Deming fixed his gaze and carefully examined him for a while, then said: "Observing your honor's composed spirit and upright form, you clearly possess the grandeur of mountains and rivers. Moreover, your two eyebrows rise sharply into the temples, and your eyes are bright as cold stars. You are a person of lifelong haughtiness, with eccentric and peculiar actions; in times of hardship you display great courage, and when facing adversity, you place utmost importance on righteousness. Most remarkable is your prominent nose, straight and elevated, with the Five Peaks converging toward it—this wealth and honor seem to be beyond what you can possibly enjoy in this lifetime. Yet I regret that your spirit is too refined; a refined spirit often harms one's descendants. Though it is said as such, I am pleased to see that your honor's physique is robust and substantial; thus, you are not a solitary figure. In the future, whether through an adopted son or a stepson, there will surely be some extraordinary encounter, surpassing the ordinary lineage beyond expectation." Minister Bai sighed and said: "For a long time, I have given up hope for descendants. If I could only find a stepson to rely on, it would fulfill my wish in old age. As for the wealth and honor I possess at present, I will not be dishonest with you, Master—they are truly as insignificant to me as passing clouds or discarded shoes. Liao Deming said: "According to your honor's lofty character, although you do not covet these things, from my observation as a humble student, this wealth and honor are just beginning. Though the descendants may not be of your own bloodline, there will still be an extraordinary encounter in store for you. At present, the red and black hues are invading your forehead; if there is no good news, a minor misfortune will surely come, but it should not be too serious. Your honor may remember these words well; by tomorrow you shall verify them and come to know that I am not deceiving you in person." Minister Bai said: "I have received much instruction from you; how could I not be deeply respectful and grateful?" As the conversation was about to end, a servant came in with another round of tea.
23	吃了茶，白公又問道：「先生自浙江到京師，水陸三千餘里，閱人必多，當今少年才士，看得幾人中意？」廖德明道：「晚生一路看來，若論平常科甲，處處皆有。倘要求曠世奇才、名重天下之人，惟有楊御史令公子方纔當得起。」白公驚問道：「是那個楊御史，難道就是敝同年楊子獻麼？」廖德明道：「是江西諱廷詔的，到不知可是貴同年否？」白公道：「正是，他只得一位乃郎，前年中了鄉榜。學生曾見過。其人也只尋常，就是硃卷，也不見怎麼高妙，為何先生獨取此子？」廖德明道：「若論文章一道，晚生不敢深辨。若從他星命看來，文昌躔斗，當有蘇學士之才華，異日自是第一人，玉堂金馬。不但星命註定，就是他已經鄉薦，今年二十歲，仍然終日潛修，尚未肯議婚，只這一段念頭也不可及。老先生不要等閒錯過。」白公道：「原來如此，學生到也不知。」 After drinking the tea, Minister Bai asked again: "Master, since you have traveled from Zhejiang to the capital by land and water for over three thousand li, you must have met many people. Among today's young men of talent, how many do you find particularly impressive?" Liao Deming said: "As I have traveled along the way, if we speak of ordinary scholars who pass the imperial examinations, they can be found everywhere. But if one is seeking a rare genius of this age or someone whose name commands respect throughout the land, only Magistrate Yang's esteemed son would truly be worthy." Minister Bai was surprised and asked: "Which Magistrate Yang are you referring to? Could it possibly be my fellow examinee, Yang Zixian?" Liao Deming said: "He is from Jiangxi and his courtesy name is Tingzhao. I do not know if he happens to be your fellow examinee or not." Minister Bai said: "That is indeed correct. He has only one son, who passed the provincial examination two years ago. I have met him before." He is an ordinary person, and even his official examination papers do not appear particularly outstanding. Why then does Master you single out this young man?" Liao Deming said: "If we are to speak of literary talent, I dare not make a thorough judgment. But if we examine his stars and destiny, the star of Literature is in conjunction with the constellation Dou; he shall possess the literary talent of Su Xueshi. In time to come, he will surely become a first-rate scholar, destined for the jade hall and golden horse." Not only is this foretold by his stars and destiny; even now, after having already been recommended at the provincial level, he is twenty years old yet still devotes himself to study day after day without agreeing to any marriage proposal. This single-minded devotion alone is something others cannot match. Your honor must not casually let this opportunity pass." Minister Bai said: "It is indeed so; I did not know about it myself."
24	二人又說了些閒話，廖德明就起身告辭。白公道：「本該留先生在此小酌三杯，奈一個敝相知見招，往李皇親府上去，已著人來催早去，故此有慢先生，多得罪了。」隨命家人封了一兩代儀，送與廖德明。廖德明打一拱受了，再三致謝出門，隨即將此話報與楊御史去了。不題。 After exchanging some more casual conversation, Liao Deming rose and took his leave. Minister Bai said: "I should have kept you here for a small drink, but unfortunately an acquaintance of mine has invited me to the residence of Prince Li, and someone has already come to urge my early departure. Therefore, I must be rude in not keeping you longer; please forgive me." He then ordered his servant to present a gift of one tael as a token of appreciation, which was given to Liao Deming. Liao Deming bowed and accepted the gift, repeatedly expressing his thanks before leaving. He immediately conveyed this conversation to Magistrate Yang. No more will be said about it for now.
25	且說白公自聽了廖德明一席話，心下就有幾分打動了，便要訪問楊公子消息，又不好對外人說。恰好吳翰林來訪他，白公就留在書房中小飲。二人飲到半酣，白公因問道：「楊子獻的乃郎你曾見過麼？」吳翰林道：「你為何問他？」白公道：「前日敝同年薦了一個相士來，我偶問及他京中誰家子弟多才而賢，他盛稱老楊的乃郎，以為後來第一才人，且以鼎甲相期。小弟因為紅玉親事，恐怕當面錯過，所以問他，不知他的文字何如？」吳翰林道：「他是詩二房盧知縣的門生。文字雖未曾見，人是見過的，卻也不曾留心。如今細細想起來，也不像個大才之人。就是老楊，從也不見狀誇，若果好時，他怎肯自己埋沒了？」 Let us return to Minister Bai, who after hearing Liao Deming's words was somewhat moved in his heart and wished to inquire about the news of Magistrate Yang's son. Yet he could not openly speak of it before outsiders. Just then, Hanlin Scholar Wu came to visit him, and Minister Bai invited him into his study for a small drink together. As the two were drinking merrily, Minister Bai suddenly asked: "Have you ever met Yang Zixian's son?" Hanlin Scholar Wu said: "Why do you ask about him?" Minister Bai said: "The other day, a fellow examinee of mine recommended a fortune-teller to me. I happened to ask him which young men in the capital are both talented and virtuous; he highly praised Young Master Yang of the elder Yang family, believing him to be the most outstanding talent of his generation, and even predicting that he would achieve top honors in the imperial examination." My younger brother is asking about this because of my daughter Hongyu's marriage prospects, fearing that we might miss the opportunity by not meeting him in person. I wonder how his writings are?" Hanlin Scholar Wu said: "He is a student of County Magistrate Lu from the second branch of the Shi family. I have not seen his writings, but I have met him in person; however, I did not pay much attention to him at the time. Now that I think about it carefully, he does not seem like a man of great talent. Even Elder Yang himself has never been seen to boast or praise his son openly; if the boy were truly outstanding, how could he allow himself to be so obscure?"
26	白公道：「我也是這等疑心。那相士又說他今年二十歲，尚未議婚，說他立志必要登了甲榜，方肯洞房花燭。若果有此志，便後生可畏，定他不得了。」吳翰林道：「這也不難。到等小弟明日設一席，請他父子來一敘，再面觀其動靜，才不才便可知矣。」白公道：「此最有理。」二人商量已定，又吃了半日酒，方纔別去。 Minister Bai said: "I have had similar doubts as well. The fortune-teller also said that he is twenty this year and has not yet discussed marriage. He claims the young man has vowed to achieve top honors in the metropolitan examination before agreeing to a wedding." If he truly holds such aspirations, then this youth is indeed formidable and cannot be easily predicted. Hanlin Scholar Wu said: "This is not difficult to verify. Tomorrow, I shall prepare a banquet and invite both father and son to meet. By observing their demeanor in person, we will soon know whether he is truly talented or not." Minister Bai said: "That makes the most sense." The two men had made their plans and continued drinking for another while before finally taking leave.
27	到次日，吳翰林就差長班下兩個請帖，去請楊御史父子即日私衙小敘。這日楊御史因得了廖德明的信，知道白公已有幾分心允，正要央人去說親，忽見吳翰林長班來請他父子吃酒，便大喜，暗想道：「若不是白家老兒聽了廖德明之言，老吳為何請我父子兩個？親事必有幾分妥帖。到只愁兒子無真實之才，恐怕一言兩語露出馬腳。欲待托故不去，又恐怕老白生疑。」卻又想道：「就去也不妨，他人物也還充得過。況他已是舉人，料不好席上考他。」就答應了都來。打發來人去了，就叫兒子楊芳打扮得齊齊整整的，又吩咐道：「你到那裡須要謙遜，不可多言。倘若要你作文作詩，你只回說『父執在上，小姪焉敢放肆。』楊芳應諾。原來這楊芳生得人物倒也豐厚，只是秉性愚蠢，雖夤緣做了個舉人，若重新問他七個題目，只怕還有一半記不清白。 The next day, Hanlin Scholar Wu sent an attendant with two invitations to invite Magistrate Yang and his son to a private gathering at Minister Bai's residence that very day. On this day, Magistrate Yang had just received news from Liao Deming that Minister Bai was already somewhat inclined to agree. He was about to ask someone to go and propose the marriage when suddenly Hanlin Scholar Wu's attendant arrived with an invitation for him and his son to drink together. This made him very happy, and he thought to himself: "If it were not for Elder Bai having heard Liao Deming's words, why would Old Wu invite both my son and me?" The marriage must be nearly settled. But he was only worried that his son lacked genuine talent, and feared that a few careless words might give him away. He wanted to feign an excuse and decline the invitation, but he was afraid that Minister Bai might become suspicious. Yet he thought again: "Going there would not be a problem; his appearance is still quite acceptable." Besides, since he has already become a juren (provincial degree holder), I suppose they won't test him at the banquet. So he agreed to go along with his son. After sending the messenger away, he had his son Yang Fang dress neatly and orderly. He also gave instructions: "When you get there, you must be humble and not speak too much. If they ask you to compose an essay or a poem, simply reply: 'My father's friend is present; how dare I be so bold as to act recklessly?'" Yang Fang nodded in agreement. In fact, Yang Fang was well-built and had an imposing appearance; however, he was naturally dull-minded. Although he had managed to become a juren through connections, if one were to ask him seven questions again, it would be likely that half of them remained unclear in his mind.
28	這日到了午後，吳翰林著人來邀，楊御史就領了楊芳，騎馬而來。此時白公已先在衙中多時了。左右報楊御史來了，吳翰林出來，迎接進廳。先是白公與楊御史相見，楊御史要讓白公，白公再三不肯，道：「小弟今日特來奉陪，又是舍親處，決無此理。」遜了一會，還是楊御史僭了。吳翰林也見過禮。就是楊芳與白公見禮，白公也還要遜讓楊芳，楊芳忙推讓道：「年伯在上，小姪焉敢放肆。」楊御史就用手扯過白公到左邊來，說道：「年兄這就不是了，子姪輩當教之以正。」白公不得已，只得僭了。相見畢，讓坐。楊御史在東邊第一座，白公是西邊第一座，楊芳轉在前面朝上而坐，吳翰林就並在白公一帶，略將椅子扯斜些相陪。 That afternoon, after Hanlin Scholar Wu had sent someone to invite them, Magistrate Yang led his son Yang Fang and rode a horse over. At that time, Minister Bai had already been waiting in the official residence for quite some time. When the attendants announced Magistrate Yang's arrival, Hanlin Scholar Wu stepped out to greet them and led them into the hall. First, Minister Bai met with Magistrate Yang. Magistrate Yang wanted to yield the seat of honor to Minister Bai, but Minister Bai repeatedly refused, saying: "I have come especially today to accompany you, and this is my own residence; it would be utterly unreasonable for me to accept such courtesy." After some polite exchanges, Magistrate Yang finally took the seat of honor. Hanlin Scholar Wu also paid his respects in accordance with proper etiquette. When Yang Fang paid his respects to Minister Bai, Minister Bai still insisted on yielding the courtesy to him. Yang Fang hurriedly declined and said: "My senior elder is present; how could a junior nephew dare be so bold?" Magistrate Yang then pulled Minister Bai to the left side and said: "Senior colleague, this is not right. One must teach one's juniors according to proper conduct." Minister Bai had no choice but to accept the courtesy as well. After the greetings were exchanged, they took their seats. Magistrate Yang took the first seat on the east side, while Minister Bai occupied the first seat on the west. Yang Fang sat in front facing upward, and Hanlin Scholar Wu sat beside Minister Bai, slightly shifting his chair to accompany him.
29	一面茶罷，一面楊御史就向吳翰林說道：「小弟屢屢欠情，今日為何反辱寵招？」吳翰林道：「自從令郎到京，從不曾申敬，今日治杯水酒，聊表微意，到不是為老先生。」楊御史道：「子姪輩怎敢當此盛意！今日小兒因貪讀書，再不肯來。小弟因說他，豈有承父執呼喚不來之理！況又有老年伯在此，領教得一日，勝似讀十年書，所以纔來了。」白公道：「令郎如此用功，難得難得！」楊御史道：「自小就是如此。他母親恐他費精神，常常勸戒，他也不聽，就是前秋僥倖了，人家要來與他結親，他決意都辭了。每日只守定幾本書，連見小弟也不丟書，小弟嘗常戒他道，書不是這等讀的，他總理會不來。」吳翰林道：「這等高才，又肯如此藏修，其志不小。老先生有此千里駒，弟輩亦增光多矣。」 After the tea was served, Magistrate Yang turned to Hanlin Scholar Wu and said: "I have long been in your debt; why today do you honor me with such a gracious invitation?" Hanlin Scholar Wu replied: "Since your son arrived in the capital, I have never had a chance to express my respect. Today's small gathering with some humble wine is merely a way for me to show a little sincerity; it is not specifically for you, Senior." Magistrate Yang said: "How could my son or I possibly deserve such generous hospitality!" Today, my son was so engrossed in his studies that he refused to come. I scolded him and said: How could a junior nephew fail to appear when summoned by his father's friend! Besides, with such an esteemed elder present, a day of learning from you is worth ten years of study. That's why he finally came." Minister Bai said: "Your son is so diligent; it is truly rare, indeed!" Magistrate Yang replied: "He has been like this since childhood. His mother was afraid he would exhaust himself and often tried to dissuade him, but he never listened. Even when last autumn brought unexpected success, and people came to propose marriage for him, he firmly refused them all. Every day, he clings to a few books and even refuses to put them down when meeting me. I often warned him that one should not read in such a way, but he never understood my meaning. Hanlin Scholar Wu said: "Such a talented young man who is also willing to study so diligently must have great aspirations. Senior, having such an outstanding son is truly a source of pride for all of us."
30	閒話了一會兒，左右報酒席齊備，吳翰林就起身遞酒定席，大家仍照舊位坐了。吃了半日，白公與吳翰林留心看楊芳舉止動靜，欲要聽楊芳開口說話，但問他話，就是楊御史替他答應，一時看不出深淺。又吃了一會兒，吳翰林奉楊御史行令。楊御史謙遜了一會，方纔受了，因說道：「酒也多，只取紅罷，一紅一杯自飲。」吳翰林道：「太容易了，還要另請教嚴些。」白公道：「令既出了，如何又改，只是求添一底罷。」楊御史道：「這也使得。」因擲下，卻只得一個紅，止該一杯酒。左右斟上，楊御史吃乾道：「就該一個紅字罷，『霜葉紅于二月花』。」此時是十月初旬，正是白雲紅葉，故楊御史說此一句，蓋為時景而發。說完就將盆子遞與白公。 After exchanging some casual conversation, the attendants announced that the banquet was ready. Hanlin Scholar Wu then rose to propose a toast and set the seating order; everyone returned to their original seats as before. After drinking for a while, Minister Bai and Hanlin Scholar Wu carefully observed Yang Fang's behavior and mannerisms. They wanted to hear him speak, but whenever they asked him something, it was always Magistrate Yang who answered on his behalf, so they could not discern the depth of his character at that moment. After drinking some more, Hanlin Scholar Wu served Magistrate Yang with a toast and proposed a game of command. Magistrate Yang modestly declined for a while before finally accepting. He then said: "There is already plenty of wine; let us play with red cards only, and whoever draws one drinks it himself." Hanlin Scholar Wu said: "That is too easy. We should set a more challenging rule instead." Minister Bai said: "The command has already been given; how can it be changed now? Let us simply add a base rule to it." Magistrate Yang replied: "That is acceptable." He then cast the cards, but only drew one red card, which meant he had to drink just a single cup of wine. The attendants poured the wine for him, and Magistrate Yang drank it dry before saying: "It is just a single red card—'Frost leaves are redder than flowers in February.'" At that time, it was the first ten days of the tenth month, when white clouds and red leaves were in full view. Hence, Magistrate Yang made this remark inspired by the scenery of the season. After finishing his words, he immediately passed the dice cup to Minister Bai.
31	白公要遜楊芳，楊芳不肯，白公就擲了，卻是兩個紅。白公吃一杯，說道：「『萬綠叢中一點紅』。」蓋默喻紅玉之美。又吃一杯，說：「『紫道紅不以為褻服』。」又喻婚姻非等閑可求也。說完即送楊芳。 Minister Bai wanted to let Yang Fang go first, but Yang Fang refused. So Minister Bai cast the dice himself and drew two red cards. Minister Bai drank a cup of wine and said: "A single red in ten thousand greens." This was an implicit allusion to the beauty of Hongyu. He drank another cup and said: "Purple paths and red—never considered as common attire." This was again an allusion to the fact that marriage is not something easily attainable. After finishing his words, he passed the dice cup on to Yang Fang.
32	楊芳欲推辭，吳翰林笑說道：「難道叫主人替客？」楊芳推辭不過，只得受了，因說道：「父執之前，小姪告飲一杯，不敢放肆。」吳翰林道：「豈有此理，不必過謙。」白公道：「通家之飲，何必太拘。」楊御史料推辭不過，只得說：「恭敬不如從命罷。」 Yang Fang wanted to decline, but Hanlin Scholar Wu smiled and said: "Would you have the host play for the guest?" Yang Fang could not refuse and had to accept. He then said: "Before my uncle, I, your junior, respectfully drink a cup and dare not be unrestrained." Hanlin Scholar Wu replied: "How could that be? There is no need to be overly modest." Minister Bai said: "This is a drink among close families; there is no need for excessive formality." Magistrate Yang, unable to refuse further, finally said: "Respectful refusal is not as good as obeying the command."
33	楊芳沒奈何，立起身來一擲，卻不湊巧，倒是三個紅。左右斟上一杯，楊芳吃了，說道：「『一色杏花紅十里』。」白公心下想道：「雖然不暗時景，或者自道其少年志氣，倒也使得。」第二杯酒，楊芳酒便吃了，酒底卻費思量。假推未乾，捱了一會，忽想起來，說道：『御水流紅葉』。」楊御史聽了，自覺說得不雅，又不好說不好，又不好替說，只得微笑了一聲。白公也不做聲，轉疑是楊芳有意求親，故說此話，反不覺其窘而偶然撞著。到了第三杯，楊芳實是沒了酒底，只推辭吃不得，再三告免。吳翰林原自有心，那裡肯放，白公又在旁幫勸，楊芳推不過，只得拿起酒來，顛倒在《千家詩》上搜索。 Yang Fang had no choice but to stand up and cast the dice. Unfortunately, it was not a lucky throw—he drew three red cards instead. The attendants poured him a cup of wine, which Yang Fang drank and then said: "A stretch of ten li with apricot blossoms in full red bloom." Minister Bai thought to himself: "Although it does not exactly match the season, perhaps he is expressing his youthful aspirations. That would also be acceptable." For the second cup of wine, Yang Fang drank it readily, but he found himself struggling to come up with a suitable saying for the final line. Pretending that his cup was not yet empty, he delayed for a while. Suddenly an idea came to him and he said: "The imperial stream carries red leaves." Magistrate Yang, upon hearing this, felt that the line was not elegant. Yet he could neither openly criticize it nor offer a substitute for him; so he could only smile slightly. Minister Bai also said nothing, but began to suspect that Yang Fang had intentionally made the remark in order to propose marriage. Thus he no longer felt embarrassed by it and instead regarded it as a coincidence. By the third cup, Yang Fang was truly unable to come up with an appropriate saying for the final line and began to feign inability to drink. He repeatedly asked to be excused from drinking further. Hanlin Scholar Wu, who had his own intentions from the beginning, would not let him off easily. Minister Bai also urged him on from the side. Unable to refuse further, Yang Fang took up the wine and frantically searched for a suitable line in A Thousand Tang Poems.
34	楊御史初意，只道酒底紅字甚易，一兩個量他還說得來，不料擲了三個紅，見楊芳說不來著急，又不好替他說，要提醒他一個經書與唐詩中的，知他不曉得，只得在《千家詩》上想了一句，假做說閒話道：「如今朝廷多事，你我做侍臣的，日日隨朝，淡月疏星，良不容易。到不如那些罷歸林下的，甚是安閒。」此乃楊御史以淡月疏星提醒楊芳，口中雖然說著，卻以目視楊芳。白公與吳翰林一時解不出，因含糊答道：「正是如此。」 Magistrate Yang had originally thought that the red card rule was easy, and expected Yang Fang to be able to come up with something for one or two draws. He did not expect three red cards to appear in a row. Seeing Yang Fang struggling, he wanted to help but could not do so openly. He tried to hint at a line from classical texts or Tang poetry, only to find that Yang Fang was unfamiliar with it. So Magistrate Yang thought of a line from A Thousand Tang Poems and casually remarked as if making small talk: "Nowadays the court is full of affairs; you and I, as attendants, must follow the emperor in daily court sessions. It's truly hard to enjoy even a quiet evening with dim moonlight and sparse stars." It is actually not as pleasant as those who have retired from officialdom and returned to the mountains, enjoying a life of peace and leisure." This was Magistrate Yang's way of hinting at the line "dim moonlight, sparse stars" to remind Yang Fang. Though he spoke these words aloud, his eyes were fixed on Yang Fang. Minister Bai and Hanlin Scholar Wu did not immediately understand the hint at that moment, so they vaguely replied: "Indeed it is."
35	楊芳見父親以目視他，知是提醒，又聞淡月疏星、侍臣之言，一時想起，滿心歡喜。因將酒吃乾，說道：「一朵紅雲捧玉皇。」白公會過意來，轉贊一聲：「好。」楊芳見白公贊好，遂欣欣然將盆送與吳翰林。 Yang Fang, seeing that his father was looking at him and realizing it was a hint, also heard the words about "dim moonlight, sparse stars" and being an attendant. At once he recalled the line and felt overjoyed in his heart. He then drank the wine dry and said: "A single red cloud supports Jade Emperor." Minister Bai understood the meaning behind it, turned to Yang Fang, and gave a brief compliment: "Good." Seeing that Minister Bai had praised his line, Yang Fang happily passed the dice cup to Hanlin Scholar Wu.
36	吳翰林擲下個紅，也吃了一杯，說道：「『酒入四肢紅玉軟』。」令完了，吳翰林便斟一大杯送楊御史謝令。楊御史接了酒，一面飲，一面看著楊芳，說道：「詩詞一道，固是風雅，文人所不可少，然最終舉業有妨，必功成名立，乃可述心寄興。似汝等小生後進，只宜專心經史，斷不可因看前輩名公淵博之妙，便思馳騖。此心一放，收斂便難。往往見了人家少年俊才，而不成器者，多生此病痛也，最宜戒之。」因回顧白公道：「年兄，你道小弟之言是否？」白公道：「年兄高論，自是少年龜鑑，然令郎天姿英邁，才學性成，又非年兄可限也。」 Hanlin Scholar Wu cast and drew a red card, drank a cup of wine, and said: "The wine flows into the limbs, softening them like red jade." After finishing his turn, Hanlin Scholar Wu poured a large cup of wine and presented it to Magistrate Yang as a gesture of thanks for the game. Magistrate Yang took the wine, drank it while looking at Yang Fang and said: "Poetry is indeed elegant and refined, an essential part of a literatus's life. However, if one becomes too absorbed in it, it may hinder his official career. One must first achieve success and establish a name before he can truly express his feelings and aspirations through poetry." Those of you young scholars should focus solely on the classics and history. You must not, because you admire the profound learning of senior officials, become distracted by idle pursuits. Once this heart strays into such distractions, it becomes difficult to bring it back under control. We often see young men of talent who ultimately fail to amount to anything, and this is usually due to such a problem. It is something you should be most cautious about." He then turned to Minister Bai and said: "Elder Brother Nian, do you think my words are correct?" Minister Bai replied: "Elder Brother Nian's insightful remarks are naturally a guiding principle for young men. However, your son is endowed with extraordinary talent and natural ability; his learning and character have already taken shape, which cannot be constrained by Elder Brother Nian."
37	吳翰林見楊御史酒吃完了，就要送令與楊芳。楊御史見了，慌忙立起身來說道：「要送令自是白年兄，然酒多了，且告少停。」白公亦立起身說道：「也罷，且從命散散，換過席再飲罷。」 Hanlin Scholar Wu saw that Magistrate Yang had finished drinking and was about to pass the command game on to Yang Fang. Magistrate Yang, seeing this, hurriedly stood up and said: "If one must pass the command, it should be Elder Brother Bai. However, since we have already had too much wine, I suggest we pause for a while." Minister Bai also stood up and said: "Very well, let us then disperse for a while as requested. We can continue drinking after rearranging the seating."
38	吳翰林不好勉強，遂邀三人過廳東一所小園子裏來閒步。這軒子雖不甚大，然圖書四壁，花竹滿階，珠覺清幽，乃是吳翰林習靜之處。大家到了軒子中，四下裏觀看了一回。楊御史與白公就往階下僻靜處小便，惟吳翰林陪楊芳在軒子邊立著。 Hanlin Scholar Wu could not insist further and thus invited the three of them to take a leisurely walk in a small garden located east of the hall. Though this pavilion was not very large, it had bookshelves on all four walls and flowers and bamboo growing abundantly on the steps. It felt refreshingly quiet and secluded; this was Hanlin Scholar Wu's place for quiet study and contemplation. Everyone arrived at the pavilion and took a look around for a while. Magistrate Yang and Minister Bai went to the quiet corner of the steps to relieve themselves, while Hanlin Scholar Wu remained with Yang Fang standing by the pavilion.
39	楊芳抬頭，忽見上面橫著一個扁額，題的是「弗告軒」三字。楊芳自恃認得這三個字，便只管注目而視。吳翰林見楊芳細看，便說道：「此三字乃是聘君吳與弼所書，點畫遒勁，可稱名筆。」楊芳要賣弄識字，便答道：「果是名筆，這軒字也還平常，這弗告二字寫得入神。」卻將告字讀了常音，不知弗告二字蓋取《詩經》上弗諼弗告之義，這告字當讀與谷字同音。吳翰林聽了，心下明白，便模糊應道：「正是。」有詩道得好： Yang Fang looked up and suddenly noticed a horizontal plaque above, inscribed with the three characters "Fugao Xuan." Confident that he recognized these three characters, Yang Fang continued to gaze at them intently. Hanlin Scholar Wu noticed Yang Fang looking closely and said: "These three characters were written by Master Wu Yubi. His brushwork is vigorous and powerful, and can be called a masterpiece." Yang Fang wanted to show off his knowledge of characters and replied: "Indeed, it is a fine brushwork. The character for 'pavilion' is quite ordinary, but the two characters 'Fu Gao' are written with such spirit that they seem almost divine." However, he pronounced the character "gao" with its common reading and did not know that the phrase "Fu Gao" was derived from The Book of Songs, where it means "not to forget and not to neglect." In this context, the character "gao" should be read with a pronunciation similar to "gu." Hanlin Scholar Wu heard this and understood what was going on in Yang Fang's mind. He responded vaguely: "Exactly." There is a well-written poem that says:
40	利口善面，龍蛇莫辨。 Fluent in speech and skillful in appearance, one cannot distinguish between dragon and snake.
41	只做一聲，醜態盡見。 With just a single remark, all his ugly traits are revealed.
42	正說完，楊御史與白公小便完走來，大家又說些閑話，吳翰林就復邀上席，又要行令。楊芳讓白公，白公又推楊芳，兩下都不肯行。楊御史也恐行令弄出醜來，便乘機說道：「年兄既不肯行，小兒焉有妄動之理，倒不如淡淡領一杯為妙，只是小弟不該獨僭。」白公道：「見教得是，但酒要吃得爽利。」楊御史道：「知己相對，安敢不醉？」吳翰林遂叫左右各奉大杯。四人一頭說，一頭吃，又吃了半日，大家都微有醉意。楊御史恐怕白公酒酣興起，要作詩賦，遂裝作大醉，同楊芳力辭，起身而別。正是： Just as the poem was finished, Magistrate Yang and Minister Bai returned after relieving themselves. They exchanged some casual conversation again, and Hanlin Scholar Wu invited them back to their seats and wanted to resume the game of command once more. Yang Fang offered Minister Bai the first turn, but Minister Bai in turn insisted that Yang Fang should go first; neither side was willing to take the lead. Magistrate Yang, fearing that the game might lead to embarrassment, took the opportunity to say: "Since Elder Brother Nian is unwilling to start, how could my son possibly act rashly? It would be better for us simply to drink a cup in quiet fashion. However, I should not drink alone." Minister Bai said: "Your advice is correct, but let us make sure the wine flows freely and without restraint." Magistrate Yang replied: "In the presence of a true friend, how could I dare not to get drunk?" Hanlin Scholar Wu then ordered the attendants to serve large cups for everyone. The four of them continued talking and drinking, and after another while, they were all slightly drunk. Magistrate Yang was afraid that Minister Bai, in the midst of his wine-induced enthusiasm, would want to compose poetry or essays. So he pretended to be very drunk and, together with Yang Fang, insisted on taking their leave and rose to depart. Indeed:
43	客有兩雙手，主有四隻目。 A guest has two hands, while a host has four eyes.
44	掩雖掩得卻，看亦看得著。 Though one may try to conceal something, it can still be seen through.
45	楊御史父子別去不題。 That is the story of how Magistrate Yang and his son took their leave; we will not dwell on it further.
46	卻說吳翰林復留白公重酌，就將楊芳錯念弗告之言說了一遍。白公道：「我見他說酒底艱難，已知其無實學，況他又是《詩經》弗告二字再讀差了，其不通可知，相士之不足憑如此。」吳翰林笑道：「你又來自愚了，相士之言未必非，老楊因甥女前日題詩，故特遣來作說客耳。」白公連連點頭道：「是是是，非今日一試，幾乎落他局中。」二人又說了一會兒，又飲了幾杯，方纔散席。正是： Let us now return to Hanlin Scholar Wu, who invited Minister Bai for another round of drinking and recounted the incident in which Yang Fang had misread "Fu Gao." Minister Bai said: "I saw how difficult it was for him to come up with the final lines, and I already knew he lacked real learning. Moreover, he misread the two characters 'Fu Gao,' which are from The Book of Songs, twice. His ignorance is evident. This shows just how unreliable a fortune-teller can be." Hanlin Scholar Wu smiled and said: "You are being overly self-deceptive again. The fortune-teller's words may not necessarily be wrong; Old Yang sent this young man especially as a go-between because his niece composed a poem the day before." Minister Bai nodded repeatedly and said: "Yes, yes, yes. If it were not for this test today, I would have almost fallen into his trap." The two of them continued chatting and drinking a few more cups before finally breaking up the banquet. Indeed:
47	他人固有心，予亦能忖度。 Though others may have their own intentions, I am also capable of discerning them.
48	千機與萬關，一毫不差錯。 A thousand strategies and ten thousand intricacies—every detail is perfectly accurate without the slightest error.
49	且說楊御史自從飲酒回來，只道兒子不曾露出破綻，心下暗喜道：「這親事大約可成，但只是央誰人為媒方好？」又想道：「此老倔強，若央了權貴去講，他又道我以勢壓他。莫若只央蘇方回去，彼此同年，又是相知，再沒得說了。」主意已定，正要去拜蘇方回，忽長班來稟道：「昨日都察院有傳單，今日公堂議事，此時該去了。」楊御史道：「我到忘了。」又想道：「蘇方回少不得也要來。」遂叫左右備馬，竟到都察院公堂來。 Let us now return to Magistrate Yang. Since returning from the banquet, he had thought that his son had not revealed any flaws and secretly rejoiced: "This marriage is likely going to be arranged successfully; I just need to decide who would be the best person to serve as a matchmaker." He also thought: "This old man is stubborn. If I send someone of high rank and power to propose, he will say that I am trying to pressure him with my influence." It would be better if I simply ask Su Fang to go back and propose on my behalf. We are of the same year in the imperial examination, and we know each other well; there will be no room for further objections." Just as he had made up his mind to visit Su Fanghui, a longban came in and reported: "Yesterday the Censorate issued a notice. There is an assembly at the public hall today; we should go there now." Magistrate Yang said: "I had completely forgotten." He also thought to himself: "Su Fanghui is sure to be coming as well." So he ordered his attendants to prepare the horse and went directly to the public hall of the Censorate.
50	此時眾御史都已來了，蘇御史恰好也來了，大家見過。卻原來是朝廷要差一官往北番迎請上皇兼送寒衣，因吏部久不推上，故有旨著九卿科道會議薦舉。故都察院先命眾御史私議定了，然後好公議。眾御史議了一回，各有所私，不好出口，都上堂來打一恭道：「迎請上皇，要隻身虜廷，不辱君命，必須才能智略，膽氣骨力兼全之人，方纔去得，一時恐難亂舉。容各職回去，思想一人報堂，以憑堂翁大人裁定。」堂上應了，大家遂一哄散去。正是： At this time, all the magistrates had already arrived, and just as it happened, Magistrate Su also came; they greeted each other. It turned out that the imperial court wanted to appoint an official to go north to welcome back the retired emperor and deliver winter clothes. Since the Ministry of Personnel had not recommended anyone for a long time, an edict was issued ordering the Nine Ministers and the Censorate to hold a meeting and jointly recommend suitable candidates. Therefore, the Censorate first instructed all magistrates to privately deliberate and reach an agreement before proceeding with a public discussion. The magistrates deliberated for a while, but each had his own private interests and could not openly express them. So they all came forward to bow respectfully and said: "To go alone into the enemy court to welcome back His Majesty the Retired Emperor is no small task; one must be a person of both talent and strategy, as well as courage and backbone, in order to undertake such an important mission. It may not be easy to find someone suitable at short notice." "We request permission to return and think of a suitable person, whom we will then report back for the honorable elder's decision." The presiding official nodded in agreement, and everyone immediately dispersed. Indeed:
51	公事當庭議，如何歸去思。 Official matters should be discussed in court; how can one go home to think about them?
52	大都臣子意，十九為存私。 Most of the ministers' intentions are, after all, largely self-serving.
53	眾御史散了，楊御史連忙策馬趕上蘇御史，說道：「小弟正有一事相求，要到尊寓。」蘇御史道：「年兄有何事，何不就此見教？」楊御史道：「別的事路上好講，此事必須要到尊寓說，方纔是禮。」二人一面說，一面並馬而來。不多時，到了蘇御史私衙，二人下馬，同進廳來坐下。 After the magistrates dispersed, Magistrate Yang hurriedly rode after Magistrate Su and said, "Brother, I have a matter to request from you; I need to visit your residence." Magistrate Su asked, "Elder Brother Yang, what is it that you wish to discuss? Why not enlighten me right here?" Magistrate Yang replied, "Other matters can be discussed on the way, but this particular matter must be spoken of at your residence; that would be proper etiquette." As they spoke, the two rode side by side. Not long after, they arrived at Magistrate Su's private residence; both dismounted and entered the hall together to sit down.
54	蘇御史問道：「年兄有何見教？」楊御史道：「別無他事，只因小兒親事，要求年兄作伐。」蘇御史道：「令郎去秋已魁鄉榜，為何尚未畢婚？」楊御史道：「小兒今年是二十歲，前年僥倖，敝鄉曾有人議親，只因他立志要求一個賢才之女，所以直遲至今。前日同年兄在白太玄家飲酒，見他令媛能代父吟詩，則賢而有才可知。小弟歸家與小兒說知，小兒大有懷求淑女之意。小弟想，白年兄性氣高傲，若央別人去說，恐言語不投，不能成事。同年中惟年兄與彼相契，小弟又叨在愛下，故敢斗膽相求，不知年兄肯周旋否？」蘇御史道：「此乃婚姻美事，小弟自當贊襄。但只是白年兄性情耿直，年兄所知。他若肯時，不論何人，千肯萬肯；他若不肯，任是知己也難撮合。但年兄之事，在令郎少年高才，自是彼所深慕，必無不允之理。今日遲了不恭，明早小弟即去，道達年兄之命，看他從違，再來奉覆。」楊御史打一恭道：「多感多感！」說罷了，就起身別去。只因這一說，有分教──塞北馳孤飛之客，江南走失旅之人。正是： Magistrate Su asked, "Elder Brother Yang, what do you wish to advise me on?" Magistrate Yang said, "There is nothing else; it's only because of my son's marriage that I wish to ask Elder Brother to act as matchmaker." Magistrate Su asked, "Your son topped the provincial examination last autumn; why has he not yet married?" Magistrate Yang said, "My son is twenty years old this year. Two years ago, by sheer luck, someone from my hometown proposed a marriage alliance, but since he has set his heart on marrying the daughter of a virtuous and talented family, we have delayed until now." The other day when Elder Brother was drinking at Bai Taixuan's home, I saw his daughter who could recite poetry in place of her father; from this, it is clear that she is both virtuous and talented. When I returned home and told my son about it, he expressed a strong desire to marry such a refined lady. I thought that Elder Brother Bai is proud and haughty in nature; if I were to ask someone else to go speak on our behalf, the words might not be well received, and the matter would likely fail. Among our contemporaries in office, only Elder Brother has a close relationship with him. Moreover, I am fortunate enough to be under your care; therefore, I dare to make this bold request—would Elder Brother be willing to help facilitate the matter?" Magistrate Su said, "This is a beautiful match; naturally, I will gladly assist." But Elder Brother knows well that Magistrate Bai has an upright and stubborn personality. If he is willing, no matter who it is, he will agree a thousand times over; but if he refuses, even close friends would find it hard to bring the two together. However, as for Elder Brother's matter, your son is a young man of great talent; naturally, he would be deeply admired by Magistrate Bai. There should be no reason for refusal. "It is too late to go today and would be disrespectful, but tomorrow morning I will go immediately and convey Elder Brother's message to him. After seeing whether he agrees or refuses, I shall come back with the reply." Magistrate Yang bowed respectfully and said, "Thank you very much!" After saying this, he rose to take his leave. Because of this single conversation, it was destined that—alone travelers would gallop across the northern frontier, while lost wanderers would journey southward from Jiangnan. Indeed:
55	意有所圖，千方百計。 When one has a plan in mind, he will go to great lengths and devise countless strategies.
56	成敗在天，人謀何濟。 Success or failure lies with Heaven; what can human schemes accomplish?
57	蘇御史去說，不知允與不允，且聽下回分解。 Magistrate Su went to make the proposal, but whether it was accepted or not will be revealed in the next chapter.