After seeing off the messenger that morning, Shi’yiniang summoned Chang Xuezhi: “Go and find out — what is the annual tuition paid to the teacher currently employed by the Zhongshan Marquis Tang family’s clan school?”

The messenger she had sent out returned at noon, and with him came Luo Zhensheng.

“Your sister-in-law said you had something urgent to see me about, and sent someone to call me away from the school,” he said. Since Shi’yiniang generally went about things with unhurried composure and seldom acted with such urgency, his expression was somewhat grave. “Has something happened?”

Shi’yiniang invited Luo Zhensheng into the east side room and explained Zhun Ge’s situation to him: “…I would like to ask Elder Brother to recommend Teacher Zhao to the Marquis.”

Luo Zhensheng was somewhat hesitant: “I hear that Hanlin Academician Jin and others have already recommended several teachers, and the Marquis was not satisfied with any of them…”

“Teacher Zhao’s uncle is a student of Official Liu — his family’s scholarly tradition runs deep,” Shi’yiniang said. “Our family’s Yu Ge, that terror of a child, speaks of Teacher Zhao with the highest admiration — he must have quite a method in his teaching. Zhun Ge cannot afford to lose any more time. The longer this drags on, the less confidence he will have in himself, and the more displeased the Marquis will become.”

Just then Chang Xuezhi returned.

Shi’yiniang made no effort to exclude Luo Zhensheng, and called him in.

He bowed attentively to Luo Zhensheng, then reported to Shi’yiniang: “…The Zhongshan Marquis family’s teacher receives twelve taels of silver per year, a set of seasonal clothing each quarter, and is assigned one manservant.”

The brother and sister exchanged a glance.

Teacher Zhao’s previous annual tuition at the Zhongshan Marquis family had been fifteen taels. Now the current teacher received twelve. The fact that even a household as parsimonious as theirs was willing to pay three taels more for Teacher Zhao…

Both Shi’yiniang and Luo Zhensheng saw a quiet conviction in each other’s eyes.

Luo Zhensheng even patted his chest: “Leave this matter to me. I will find a way to bring him here.”

It was naturally far better for the maternal uncle himself to approach the matter than for her, a stepmother, to do so.

“As for the tuition, we can discuss it — whatever satisfies Teacher Zhao.” Shi’yiniang considered. “As for the Marquis… simply say that you care deeply about Zhun Ge’s studies, that we happened to speak of it, and it put the idea in your mind.”

Luo Zhensheng understood perfectly: “Do not worry — I know what to say to the Marquis.” Then he asked: “Why have I not seen the Marquis?”

“He is in the outer courtyard.” Shi’yiniang told Luo Zhensheng about the household’s plans to add a wing of rooms. “…Today there is timber being delivered.”

“It is indeed a bit cramped with all the children living with you,” Luo Zhensheng nodded, then spoke of Zhun Ge: “He can recite the book perfectly well — why would he be afraid of the teacher?” He found it very difficult to understand.

Shi’yiniang had no way to explain it either: “Quite so.” When she herself was a child, she had always looked forward to school and examinations — chances to show off before her parents, and let them show off before others. “Before, I had only heard of this…”

“You had heard of it before?” Luo Zhensheng was puzzled.

Shi’yiniang realized she had let something slip. She hastily spoke vaguely: “I think I heard someone mention it once — that there are people who have a particular dread of their teachers. I simply had never seen it for myself…” Just then a steward mamma came seeking instructions, and she quickly changed the subject. “…The day after tomorrow is already the Third Month Third. The household has arranged for the Deyin Troupe, the Changsheng Troupe, and the Jiexiang Society to perform private shows — events are coming thick and fast.”

Luo Zhensheng rose to take his leave: “Then go about your business. Take care of yourself.”

Shi’yiniang kept him for the meal: “…There is no rush.”

Luo Zhensheng had hurried over the moment he received word, and thinking he still needed to return to the school in the afternoon, he accepted without ceremony.

Shi’yiniang had already eaten lunch, and had the kitchen prepare four meat dishes, two vegetable dishes, and a soup for Luo Zhensheng.

Luo Zhensheng had just sat down when Xu Lingyi arrived.

“When did you arrive?” he reproached Shi’yiniang. “Why did no one come to call me?”

“I was the one who said not to call you.” Luo Zhensheng quickly spoke up for her. “I heard you were busy with the household’s extension works, so I said not to summon you.”

Xu Lingyi heard this and instructed Shi’yiniang: “Bring out that Great White Dew that the palace sent as a gift last time. Add a pair of chopsticks for me.”

Luo Zhensheng quickly declined: “I still need to return to the school this afternoon — please excuse me from the wine.”

Xu Lingyi did not press him. He took the chopsticks and ate half a small bowl of rice alongside Luo Zhensheng, then moved to the west side room for tea.

“Zhun Ge has been at school for over half a month now, and I came especially to see how he is getting on.” Seizing the opportunity, Luo Zhensheng came straight to the point: “But from the way Eleventh Sister spoke, it seems things are not quite right?”

Xu Lingyi glanced at Shi’yiniang, and gave a wry smile: “I cannot think who he takes after. Your sister is sharp and capable, as goes without saying, and I am not the sort of timid, cowardly man myself.”

Luo Zhensheng took the opportunity to bring up Teacher Zhao: “…Would it be all right if I made enquiries on your behalf about Teacher Zhao’s willingness?”

Xu Lingyi, however, showed little great enthusiasm: “Let us revisit the matter later.”

Luo Zhensheng was quietly anxious, yet could not press further. He made some casual conversation about the most talked-about topic in court circles — the matter of lifting the maritime prohibition — and seeing that the hour was growing late, rose to take his leave.

Xu Lingyi could not help remarking to Shi’yiniang afterward: “Zhun Ge is simply not yet settled in. He will be fine with time. Was there need to tell Zhensheng about it?”

“I was worried,” Shi’yiniang said, and told Xu Lingyi how Zhun Ge had fluently recited the *Elementary Learning* for her in private. She also murmured: “When the Marquis sets his face, even I feel nervous inside — let alone Zhun Ge.”

Xu Lingyi was momentarily at a loss for words.

And seeing that he had fallen silent, Shi’yiniang pressed her advantage gently: “Marquis, Elder Brother also has Zhun Ge’s best interests at heart. Would the Marquis at least agree to meet the man before deciding? That way Elder Brother’s good intentions will not have gone to waste.” She added with a soft sigh: “Besides, this is only Elder Brother’s view. Whether Teacher Zhao would even be willing to come is another matter entirely.”

Xu Lingyi could not help raising an eyebrow.

Shi’yiniang built up the case for Teacher Zhao: “When Teacher Zhao left the capital, someone had already sought him out by reputation and wished to engage him as a private tutor. He declined at the time, citing his obligation to escort his Third Aunt’s Fifth and Sixth Brothers back to Shanxi. So when Elder Brother heard me speak of Zhun Ge being afraid of his teacher, he thought of those two unruly younger brothers, and it gave him the idea to ask Teacher Zhao.”

Xu Lingyi’s interest was genuinely piqued. He gave a slight nod: “Let us see the man first, and then decide.”

There is no harm in giving it a try.

Shi’yiniang let out a quiet breath of relief.

Xu Lingyi’s gaze, however, had fallen on the half-written letter on the low table.

“It is for Gan Family’s Seventh Miss!” Shi’yiniang smiled in explanation. “She invited me to visit her at home afterward… This time I wanted to invite her to come and enjoy the festivities… But the twenty-sixth of the third month is her wedding day — I do not know whether she will be able to come.” Her tone carried a trace of wistfulness.

That would be the young woman she met at the Girls’ Festival that year.

Xu Lingyi thought of all that had happened that year, and a shadow crossed his eyes. He comforted Shi’yiniang: “The Liang family is in Yanjing. There will be plenty of opportunities in the future.”

Shi’yiniang saw that his expression was not quite at ease and smiled, changing the subject: “I thought the same. So I am writing her a letter to see if she can come.”

Xu Lingyi had no wish to dwell on it, and asked how her preparations were coming along: “…If you truly find yourself overwhelmed, let Zhaoying come and help you. He used to work in the accounts office — I saw he was quick-witted, and that is why I kept him at my side. He has accompanied me long enough to have seen quite a bit.”

He was afraid she lacked experience for hosting such a banquet for the first time.

Shi’yiniang smiled: “Everything is being done according to precedent, and the steward mammas are all experienced. I do not expect any great problems.”

Though she was genuinely grateful in her heart, she dared not accept — having Zhaoying by her side would certainly make everything twice as easy. But in the eyes of those watching for an opening, it would become grounds to attack her.

Seeing her eyes bright and her spirits high, with every appearance of calm confidence, Xu Lingyi could say no more. He simply instructed Zhaoying afterward to keep a close eye on things that day and help with any errands as needed.

That afternoon, Fifth Master sent over the program of plays from the three theater troupes.

The Deyin Troupe would perform *The Embroidered Jacket*, the Changsheng Troupe *The Story of the Gauze Veil*, and the Jiexiang Society *The Tale of the Broken Kiln*.

He too was a little worried Shi’yiniang might not be able to manage the occasion, and said quietly: “I have already arranged everything. Sibao will help coordinate the three troupes — he has been running around theater circles with me since he was small and knows everyone. On the day, Fourth Sister-in-law need only attend to entertaining the older ladies.”

It was nothing more than having a performance troupe come to the house — Shi’yiniang had already made her own arrangements. But she accepted Xu Lingkuan’s kindness all the same, thanked him sincerely, and personally saw him to the door.

Being able to help Shi’yiniang made Xu Lingkuan very happy, and he walked away with a light step.

Shi’yiniang watched him go and could not help covering her mouth to laugh.

Back in the room, Lvyun brought clothes from the sewing room.

A right-lapel pale pink thin jacket and a jade green layered skirt — worn on Shi’yiniang, she looked like a spring flower just about to bloom.

A sandy green outer robe with a moon-white embroidered skirt — fresh and natural as a new bud on a branch outside the window.

An apricot yellow double-breasted short jacket with a deep purple moon-glory skirt — rich and vibrant, dignified and magnificent.

Shi’yiniang was very pleased. She instructed Yan Rong: “On the first day, style a peony hair arrangement with two pearl hair combs. On the second day, style a spiral chignon and use the silver ginkgo-blossom head ornament set. On the third day, style a round bun and use the ruby head ornament set.”

Lvyun nodded repeatedly. Shi’yiniang asked about Zhen Jie’er’s clothes: “Has everything been prepared for her?”

“All ready!” she smiled. “As per your instructions — one apricot-white outer robe, one blue brocade outer robe, and one honey-gold double-breasted jacket.”

Shi’yiniang sent for Wen Yiniang.

“Daughters from the various households will likely all be attending,” she said, explaining things carefully to Wen Yiniang. “Zhen Jie’er is the eldest daughter of our household, and naturally should take the lead in receiving them. However, she is still in mourning, and it would not be quite appropriate for her to remain in Dianchun Hall watching the performance. I intend to place her and the others in the Liufang Bower. As you know, Liufang Bower is a wonderful spot — boating, kite flying, and fishing are all possible there. The only concern is that it is by the water, which is not entirely safe. That day, Nanny Du will be with Zhun Ge and Sijie at Second Young Master’s Beautiful Scenery Pavilion. I do not feel easy entrusting the other arrangements to just anyone — only you. I am counting on you to keep an eye on things there.” She also reminded her: “After Elder Sister’s mourning-removal ceremony in the fourth month, it will be time to find Zhen Jie’er a marriage. With so many guests gathered now, it is a fine opportunity. You must pay close attention.”

The matter was stated plainly enough, and Wen Yiniang was shrewd. She of course agreed with an eager willingness and went off delighted, turning her whole room upside down in search of clothes to wear that day — they must not be too plain, lest it reflect poorly on the Xu family; yet they must not be too splendid either, lest they overshadow Shi’yiniang. This threw Qiuhong and Donghong into a night-long ordeal.

On Shi’yiniang’s side, she summoned Qin Yiniang: “Nanny Du will be looking after Second Young Master’s side of things, so you need not worry about that. Wen Yiniang will be helping to look after Zhen Jie’er. With only you and Qiao Yiniang remaining at home…”

Before she could finish, Qin Yiniang immediately said: “Then… then let me go and keep Yi Yiniang company. She is alone guarding that big house — she must be feeling rather uneasy.”

Shi’yiniang nodded and instructed Yan Rong: “That day, only Qin Yiniang and Qiao Yiniang will be at home. With the maids and mammas on duty hearing the drums and gongs at Dianchun Hall, they will inevitably want to run off and watch the excitement. Stay at home and help me keep order.”

Yan Rong nodded: “Madam, do not worry. I will be here.”

—