Explore Chapter 11 of '啼笑因缘' with the original Chinese text, English translation, detailed Chinese vocabulary explanations, and audio of the Chinese original. Listen and improve your reading skills.
At this moment, Fan Jiashu was fully awake. He looked out the window where the pale dawn light already illuminated half the tall buildings. In the alley, no one was speaking loudly. Only the birds in the trees could be heard, fluttering their wings and chirping incessantly. Standing by the window, he mused dreamily. The events of the night were clearly real, not a dream. From this perspective, there was absolutely no doubt about Feng Xi. She had come out of love for me, yet I had looked down on her and caused her such embarrassment. How could I face her with a clear conscience? To speak honestly, such a beautiful and affectionate woman—I truly had no reason not to love her. A slight estrangement had arisen between us. Who had planted the seed of this estrangement? I ought to forgive her. Why cling to her somewhat improper behavior? Falling in love is all too easy for young people. Should I break with her over this? No, no! Starting tonight, I will cherish her doubly. From this moment on, I will no longer regard her as an outsider.
Lost in these thoughts, he sat until daybreak without realizing it. For some destiny-driven reason, after a night of reflection, he felt not tired but refreshed instead. His mind was preoccupied, making sleep impossible, so he gave up on resting. He stood up, washed his face, and rinsed his mouth. The street gate was still closed, so he took out a key and opened the room door. Glancing at the small desk clock, he saw it was only a quarter to seven. The room felt empty. On the desk lay writing brushes, ink, and a few books, all left untidy. He thought to himself, since meeting Feng Xi, he had lent her books, taught her characters, and guided her studies—all without interruption. He never imagined he would now have such leisure. As he pondered, he tidied the books, casually pulling out a copy of Dream of the Red Chamber and placing it on the desk. When he reached the chapter "The Bitter Crimson Pearl's Spirit Returns to the Heaven of Parting Sorrows," he thought of Feng Xi's circumstances, so similar to Lin Daiyu's. Her current situation was even more pitiable. How should he treat her to do right by her?
He was lost in reverie when Liu Fu peeked into the room several times. Seeing Fan Jiashu sitting and reading, he dared not disturb him. Later, Fan Jiashu felt somewhat fatigued. He stood up and stretched. Liu Fu then brought in washing water. Fan Jiashu washed his face and said to Liu Fu, "I won't go out today. If anyone comes looking for me, say I've gone to the Western Hills." Liu Fu assented. Fan Jiashu changed clothes, casually took along that copy of Dream of the Red Chamber, and went to the courtyard to look at the potted plants. His mind wandered, thinking he shouldn't have treated Feng Xi that way yesterday. He should find time to visit her.
Just as he thought this, he saw Liu Fu leading someone in. Turning, Fan Jiashu recognized Shen Sanxuan, Feng Xi's uncle. He first smiled and bowed respectfully. Fan Jiashu invited him to sit inside. Shen Sanxuan dared not sit, standing with hands at his sides. Fan Jiashu asked, "Do you have business?" Shen Sanxuan replied, "Nothing much. We've just moved to a new place. Feng Xi still thinks of you, Mr. Fan. She asked me to come see if you're here and invite you over for a visit." Fan Jiashu saw his usual slick demeanor and didn't wish to engage much. But hearing Feng Xi had sent him, he said, "I'll come when I have time." Shen Sanxuan said, "Yes, then please come early, Mr. Fan." With that, he bowed again and left.
Fan Jiashu reflected. Feng Xi had been wronged yesterday. Today, she sent her uncle to invite him. He should give her this face. Thinking so, he changed clothes and planned to go to Feng Xi's new home. Just as he stepped out, he encountered Tao Bohe returning by car. Tao Bohe asked, "Where are you off to?" Fan Jiashu said, "Going for a stroll to the Western Hills." Tao Bohe said, "I'm heading there too. Let's go together in the car." Fan Jiashu replied, "I wouldn't dare trouble you." Tao Bohe said, "We're family. No need for formalities." So saying, he took Fan Jiashu's hand, and they boarded the car together. Fan Jiashu couldn't refuse and went along.
The car passed through Xizhimen Gate. In the distance, the faint blue silhouette of the Western Hills lay before them. A light rain had fallen the previous night, washing the mountain vegetation clean, free of dust. The green held a tender freshness. The air was exceptionally pure, invigorating to breathe. Tao Bohe laughed, "This kind of air can't be bought in the city." Fan Jiashu smiled and nodded. Soon, the car arrived at the Western Hills hotel entrance. They alighted and strolled on the lawn.
Tao Bohe said, "Let's talk here." He sat down on the grass. Fan Jiashu had no choice but to sit beside him. Tao Bohe said, "You seem somewhat out of sorts lately. Any worries?" Fan Jiashu said, "No." Tao Bohe said, "No need to hide it. Young people all have their concerns. But I advise you to see things more lightly. Love is important, but there are things in life more crucial than love." Fan Jiashu remained silent. Tao Bohe said, "I see you get along well with that eldest Guan girl. But her family background seems a bit low." Fan Jiashu said, "What does that matter?" Tao Bohe said, "It doesn't matter, but such families aren't quite suitable. What do you think?" Fan Jiashu said, "I believe things can't be generalized." Seeing his displeasure, Tao Bohe smiled. "This is just my personal opinion. You must decide for yourself."
They chatted a while, had lunch at the hotel, and returned by car. By the time they reached home, it was already evening. Fan Jiashu, preoccupied with Feng Xi, hurried through dinner and went to her house. Upon entering, Auntie Shen greeted him with a smile. "Mr. Fan! Why are you so late? Our girl has been talking about you all day." Fan Jiashu smiled and walked straight to Feng Xi's room. She was lying in a rattan chair near the electric lamp, reading a book. Lifting her head and seeing Fan Jiashu, she quickly put the book down and stood up smiling. "I thought you'd come today, and here you are." Fan Jiashu said, "I intended to come this morning, but something held me up." As he spoke, he noticed Feng Xi's face seemed tinged with melancholy. He said, "Are you still angry with me?" Feng Xi laughed. "Why would I be angry? It's my own fault for annoying you." Fan Jiashu smiled. "Your words still sound resentful." Feng Xi said, "Truly, I'm not lying. I thought all night. I feel I'm really not fit to be with you."
Fan Jiashu, hearing her speak so earnestly, was taken aback. He said, "What do you mean?" Feng Xi said, "Think about it. Who are you, and who am I? Can this last between us? You only pity me, trying to uplift me. But I must understand my place. I can't overstep just because you think highly of me." Fan Jiashu said, "Why say this suddenly? When have I ever put on airs with you?" Feng Xi said, "You haven't, but I always feel I'm not worthy. And you have elders at home—your parents, uncles. Would they approve of someone like me? I've thought it over. It's better to end it early..." Her voice choked here.
Fan Jiashu said, "Don't let your thoughts run wild. Since I'm involved with you, I have my reasons. As for my family, they're in the south. They can't control my affairs. Even if they could, as long as I'm willing, they can't do much." Feng Xi said, "Even so, I feel uneasy. You're educated and sensible. You know marriage isn't child's play. If we continue this ambiguous relationship, what will happen in the future?" Fan Jiashu, hearing this, found her perspective surprisingly astute. He said, "You're right. But rest assured, I won't abandon you after leading you on. You're still young and studying. In a couple of years, when your studies are complete, I'll find a way."
Feng Xi lowered her head, twisting the corner of her clothes slowly. "Your words might be true, but I can't wait. Think about it. I wait for you here every day as if for something precious. If you don't come one day, I feel unsettled all day. If this goes on, I fear I'll fall ill." Fan Jiashu laughed. "Isn't that silly? I'm busy now and can't come daily, but I will in the future." Feng Xi shook her head. "The future is the future. Now is now." Her eyes reddened, tears welling up.
Fan Jiashu quickly took her hand. "Don't be sad. Whatever you want, I'll agree." Feng Xi said, "I don't want anything. Just keep me in your heart and visit often. That's enough." Fan Jiashu said, "I can do that. I'll come every day from now on." Feng Xi then turned from sorrow to joy, sticking out her tongue. "Really? You're not lying?" Fan Jiashu said, "Why would I lie?"
At that moment, Auntie Shen coughed outside the room and brought in tea. Glancing at Feng Xi's tear-stained face, she smiled. "Have you been quarreling again?" Fan Jiashu laughed. "No, we were just talking." Auntie Shen said, "Quarreling is fine. Young couples always have spats. They make up soon enough." She placed the tea on the table, cast a glance at Feng Xi, and left smiling.
After her mother left, Feng Xi whispered, "See how my mother always talks nonsense." Fan Jiashu smiled. "She means well." Feng Xi said, "What good intentions? She's just seizing the opportunity." Fan Jiashu saw her charming pout and found it adorable. He teased her, "So, is it better for us to quarrel or not?" Feng Xi glanced at him, lowered her head, and suddenly giggled.
Seeing her laugh, Fan Jiashu felt much relieved. He said, "I came late today. Let me play a game of chess with you." Feng Xi said, "I'm not good at it." Fan Jiashu said, "No matter. I'll let you win." He stood up to set the board. Feng Xi helped. They sat facing each other and began playing. Fan Jiashu intentionally yielded, retreating with each move. Feng Xi concentrated fiercely on winning, pondering every piece for a long time. After half an hour, they had only made over twenty moves.
Just then, someone in the courtyard said loudly, "Ah! Mr. Fan is here today." Fan Jiashu looked back to see Shen Sanxuan. He entered with a package, smiling broadly. Fan Jiashu had to stand and greet him. Shen Sanxuan said, "Please sit, please sit. Continue your game." He placed the package on the table—it contained peanuts, walnut candies, and some half-empty snacks. Opening it, he said, "I bought some simple things. Don't disdain them, Mr. Fan." Fan Jiashu said, "No need for such courtesy." Shen Sanxuan said, "It's a small token. Please help yourself."
Fan Jiashu, seeing his obsequiousness, felt somewhat awkward. He sat down and casually took a walnut candy. Feng Xi grew impatient. "Uncle, don't disturb us. We're playing chess." Shen Sanxuan laughed. "Fine, play on. I won't speak." He retreated to a chair but kept his eyes fixed on the chessboard.
Fan Jiashu and Feng Xi continued their game. Shen Sanxuan watched a while and suddenly said, "That's a good move." Feng Xi said, "Uncle, you don't understand. Don't talk nonsense." Shen Sanxuan smiled. "I may not understand, but I can see." Fan Jiashu could only smile faintly. Feng Xi said, "If you want to watch, do so quietly. No talking." Shen Sanxuan indeed fell silent.
After a few more moves, Shen Sanxuan sighed. Feng Xi said, "What now?" Shen Sanxuan said, "Nothing. I remembered something." Feng Xi said, "What?" Shen Sanxuan said, "Yesterday, I went to Tianqiao (the ‘Heavenly Bridge’) and met some old friends. They urged me to play small-stakes mahjong. I didn't dare go because I had no money. But watching them made me itch." Feng Xi slapped a chess piece down. "You want to gamble again? I won't allow it." Shen Sanxuan said, "I won't go. I'm just saying."
Fan Jiashu, seeing the uncle and niece bicker, stayed out of it, focusing on the game. Due to Shen Sanxuan's interruptions, Feng Xi grew impatient and lost. She pushed the board away. "I quit. I always lose." Fan Jiashu smiled. "Your chess has improved a lot." Feng Xi said, "You're just saying that. I know you let me win." Fan Jiashu said, "I didn't let you." Feng Xi said, "You still deny it? Do you think I don't know?"
Shen Sanxuan chimed in, "Feng Xi, don't argue with Mr. Fan. He was going easy on you." Feng Xi said, "Mind your own business." Shen Sanxuan laughed. "Fine, I won't speak." He stood up. "You two talk. I'll take a walk." Feng Xi said, "Where are you going?" Shen Sanxuan said, "Just to the gate." Feng Xi said, "Don't go far." Shen Sanxuan assented and left.
Fan Jiashu and Feng Xi chatted a while longer. Seeing it was late, Fan Jiashu rose to leave. Feng Xi saw him to the main gate, quietly holding his hand. "You must come tomorrow." Fan Jiashu nodded in agreement. Only then did Feng Xi release his hand. After walking a few steps, Fan Jiashu looked back. Feng Xi still stood at the gate, watching him. Fan Jiashu waved. Feng Xi waved back. Then he turned and walked away.
At the alley entrance, he saw Shen Sanxuan talking with someone. Paying no heed, Fan Jiashu hired a rickshaw home. There, Tao Bohe and his wife were still awake. Mrs. Tao smiled. "Cousin, you're back. Where have you been all this time?" Fan Jiashu said, "At a friend's house." Mrs. Tao said, "A female friend, right?" Fan Jiashu laughed. "Cousin-in-law always jokes." Mrs. Tao said, "I'm not joking at all. I know about your affairs." Fan Jiashu said, "What do you know?" Mrs. Tao said, "I know you have a drum-song performer girlfriend, quite pretty."
Hearing this, Fan Jiashu's heart skipped a beat, but he feigned calm. "Who told you that, cousin-in-law?" Mrs. Tao said, "No need to ask. I just know. But I advise you to keep your distance from such families." Fan Jiashu said, "Why?" Mrs. Tao said, "No particular reason. Just my advice." Seeing she wouldn't elaborate, Fan Jiashu asked no more. After some idle talk, he returned to his room.
He then reviewed the day's events. Feng Xi's words today made sense. She had thoughtfully considered their future, showing she wasn't foolish. He should treat her well from now on and not betray her sincerity.