Explore Chapter 54 of '水浒新传' with the original Chinese text, English translation, detailed Chinese vocabulary explanations, and audio of the Chinese original. Listen and improve your reading skills.
It is told that Gongsun Sheng, having departed from Liangshan Marsh, journeyed northward. On this day, he arrived at Lugou Bridge. He beheld the river's ceaseless flow beneath the bridge, with willows swaying tenderly on either bank. As he was admiring the view, he suddenly heard a voice call out, 'Master Gongsun, how fares it since we last met?' Gongsun Sheng turned and saw an old acquaintance, known in the martial world as Iron-Armed Ape, Zhou Tong. Overjoyed at their meeting, they sought a wine shop to recount their experiences since parting.
Zhou Tong said, 'Since we parted at Liangshan Marsh, I have wandered the martial world. I heard you have been traveling far and wide. To encounter you today is truly a heaven-sent fortune.' Gongsun Sheng sighed, 'The affairs of this world are like a game of chess. Our brotherhood has scattered, and who knows when we may reunite for righteous cause.' As they drank, Zhou Tong spoke of recent events in Yan City, saying that the Jin people were advancing south, the Central Plains were in turmoil, and heroes were emerging everywhere.
The next day, Gongsun Sheng followed Zhou Tong into Yan City. He beheld a scene of thriving markets and a confluence of notable figures. Zhou Tong led him to a residence where they met Sick Wei-Chi Sun Li. After the amnesty and recruitment, Sun Li had been granted an official post. But discontented with the court's politics, he had retired here, devoting himself to befriending heroes of the martial world.
Sun Li was delighted to see Gongsun Sheng. He said, 'Master Gongsun's visit brings glory to my humble dwelling.' Gongsun Sheng said, 'Brother Sun, how have you fared? I heard you have gained quite a reputation here.' Sun Li laughed, 'I merely while away the days in idleness. Now, with treacherous officials holding sway at court and foreign threats frequent, though I live in seclusion, I often reminisce about the old days at Liangshan Marsh.'
Gongsun Sheng said, 'Though we are scattered across the land, our hearts remain tied to our homeland. Now, the Jin people gaze upon us with covetous eyes, yet the court persists in seeking peace. If this continues, the Central Plains may not endure.' Sun Li struck the table and said, 'Your words are most apt. Here, I have contacted many patriots. We await but the right moment to join forces for a great cause.'
Zhou Tong said, 'Brother Sun, through his righteousness and generosity, has won the allegiance of many heroes in Yan City. Recently, he has also befriended some border guards, all men of mettle and courage.' Hearing this, Gongsun Sheng secretly rejoiced and said, 'That is excellent. We must plan with foresight and not act rashly.'
For several days in succession, Gongsun Sheng lingered with Sun Li and the others, discussing strategies to resist the Jin. Sun Li said, 'Yan City is a crucial military stronghold. If we can accumulate strength here, we can serve as an inside force in the future.' Gongsun Sheng said, 'We must proceed with caution and not reveal our traces.'
On this day, Gongsun Sheng bid farewell to all, intending to visit other places. Sun Li provided him with travel funds and said, 'Take care, Master Gongsun. If there is any news, I will surely send word.' Gongsun Sheng clasped his hands and said, 'Brother Sun, your noble righteousness is cherished. We shall meet again another day.' With that, he departed like a drifting cloud.
After leaving Yan City, Gongsun Sheng was filled with profound emotion and countless reflections. He thought of the brothers from Liangshan Marsh, now scattered like stars, uncertain when they might reunite. As he reached the outskirts, he suddenly saw a rider galloping towards him. The man on horseback shouted, 'Master Gongsun, stay your steps!' It was Zhou Tong in pursuit. He delivered a secret letter, saying it was confidential information obtained by Sun Li, urging Gongsun Sheng to swiftly relay it to Liangshan Marsh.