Explore Chapter 24 of 'Spring Ming Outer History' with the original Chinese text, English translation, detailed Chinese vocabulary explanations, and audio of the Chinese original. Listen and improve your reading skills.
Since parting from Li Yun the other day, Yang Xingyuan had thought of her often. On this free day, he made his way once more to the Pine and Bamboo House in search of her.
Li Yun was delighted to see Yang Xingyuan. She hurriedly invited him into her chamber, had him sit, and personally poured him tea.
Noticing that Li Yun was dressed with particular elegance that day, Yang Xingyuan said with a smile, “It’s only been a few days, yet you’ve grown even more lovely.” Li Yun replied shyly, “Master Yang, you’re teasing me again.”
After a while of idle conversation, Li Yun suddenly asked, “Master Yang, did you bring that book you mentioned finding for me the other day?” “Ah!” exclaimed Yang Xingyuan, “I completely forgot. I’ll be sure to bring it tomorrow.”
“It’s no trouble,” said Li Yun. “I’m merely bored and thought reading might pass the time.” Yang Xingyuan replied, “It’s a fine thing that you are willing to study. I shall certainly support you.”
Just then, a voice called from outside, “Seventh Miss, a guest has sent a Summons for a courtesan.” Li Yun rose to her feet. “Please wait here a moment, Master Yang. I shall return shortly.”
Yang Xingyuan sat alone in the room. Gazing at the calligraphy and paintings on the wall, his eyes fell upon a couplet. It read: “New verses shimmer through verdant silk, a verdant past lingers in fragile memory; Brocade strings swept by scarlet sleeves, a night so fine is brushed away.” He could not help but nod in silent admiration.
Before long, Li Yun returned, a faint weariness on her face. Yang Xingyuan said, “You must be weary from entertaining guests. Please rest. I shall visit another day.” Li Yun urged him, “Why must you leave in such a hurry, Master Yang? Won’t you stay a little longer?”
Yang Xingyuan sat a while longer. Seeing the sky darken, he finally rose to take his leave. Li Yun escorted him to the courtyard. Lowering her voice, she asked, “Will you be free to come tomorrow?” Yang Xingyuan nodded his assent.
After leaving the Pine and Bamboo House, Yang Xingyuan walked lost in thought. He reflected on Li Yun’s deep affection and his own inability to secure her freedom from this life. A pang of melancholy washed over him.
Upon returning to the Guild Hall, he found a letter on his desk. Opening it, he saw it was from home, informing him that his mother was gravely ill and urging his swift return.
After reading the letter, Yang Xingyuan was seized with anxiety. He spent a sleepless night, pondering what to do.