Taking in a Disciple (Part Three)
Qingqing said, “The people are not just men; although women might not be as knowledgeable as men, they are an essential part of ‘the people.’ Moreover, ‘one must manage the family before governing the nation.’ If there are no women, how can one ‘manage the family’? If a husband goes out to defend the country, but his wife does not understand ‘the ways of governance’ and constantly obstructs him, how can you men govern with peace of mind?”
Mr. Liu laughed and said, “Haha, your insights are indeed unique, causing one to view you, and indeed all women, with new eyes. It seems that women must also understand these principles of governance.”
Qingqing’s words not only made Mr. Liu see her in a new light, but also Mr. Lin and everyone else present. Lin Hong seemed indifferent, but Yafu, seeing this, slightly frowned, displeased though she was well-mannered enough not to show it. She asked, “Father, who is this young lady? I’ve never seen her before.”
Mr. Lin had always told outsiders that his eldest daughter was frail and not suited for guests, fearing that her dark complexion would embarrass him. Now, seeing Qingqing speak so eloquently with unique insights, he felt less aversion towards her, and seeing Mr. Liu’s praise, he was secretly pleased. Mr. Lin said, “She is your eldest sister.”
Upon hearing this, both Yafu and Lin Hong were startled, but quickly bowed and said, “Greetings, eldest sister!”
Qingqing, having just displayed her “eloquent discourse” out of a sudden urge to show off, had actually learned these bits of knowledge by “stealing” from her mother’s side since childhood, combined with her natural intelligence. Now, she returned to her usual timid self and returned the bow awkwardly.
Mr. Lin asked, “Qingqing, who taught you to read?”
“No one taught me,” Qingqing replied, feeling it might be inappropriate to say she learned by eavesdropping, so she added, “I’ve just listened a lot while serving by my mother’s side, and in my spare time, I’ve studied books on my own…”
Her voice grew fainter as she noticed the increasingly surprised looks from Mr. Lin and the others, thinking they were mocking her. In reality, they were marveling at her self-taught knowledge and innate talent.
Taking in a Disciple (Part Four)
Everyone’s attention was focused on Qingqing when suddenly a woman’s rude scolding voice was heard, causing slight frowns among the crowd for its vulgarity, though the voice was pleasant and somewhat similar to Qingqing’s. Qingqing, unlike the others, was already scared white upon hearing it, trembling as she said, “Mother, I’m here.”
It turned out that the third madam, seeing Qingqing hadn’t returned after a long while, feared she might have offended someone. Qingqing wanted to go to her, but with her father and everyone else there, she dared not move. The third madam was still scolding loudly, but upon approaching and seeing Mr. Lin and others looking at her disdainfully, and Qingqing standing submissively, she approached without hesitation and slapped Qingqing hard across the face. Qingqing’s face immediately showed clear red marks, slightly swollen with traces of blood. The third madam paid no mind, quickly kneeling down to kowtow, “This ignorant girl, if she has offended you, please punish her as you see fit.”
Qingqing, in shock, forgot her pain and also knelt down. Mr. Lin hadn’t seen the third madam in a long time. Her beauty might still be there, but she had lost her former grace, her attire was casual, and her hair was disheveled. Mr. Lin felt a pang of sadness, wondering how such a once proud woman had become so unbecoming, so fearful. His disdain for her grew. He said indifferently, “She hasn’t offended anyone. You’ve taught her well, but why are you…”
The third madam was unsure if Mr. Lin was genuinely complimenting her teaching or being sarcastic, as she had never actually taught her daughter. Even Qingqing’s red sugar as a child was delivered to her mouth by the third madam’s toenail. “What have you done wrong?” she asked Qingqing, lacking the resources or mood for guessing games or coquetry, only seeking a quick resolution without implicating herself.
“I don’t know…” Qingqing replied.
Just as the third madam was about to scold again, Mr. Liu interjected, “Madam, the eldest miss hasn’t offended anyone. She’s a clever woman, and I wish to take her as my student.”
His words stunned everyone, except for the third madam, who didn’t know who this man was and looked questioningly at Mr. Lin.
Taking in a Disciple (Part Five)
Mr. Lin, still not very fond of Qingqing, hesitated, “Qingqing has always been in poor health, I’m afraid…”
“Mr. Lin, looking at the eldest miss’s demeanor, any illness she might have had seems to have been cured. If you do not agree, then I will have to seek other arrangements for your son and daughters.” Saying this, he bowed slightly, intending to leave, implying that if Qingqing couldn’t study with Lin Hong and Yafu, he would teach none of them.
Mr. Lin pondered: Even if she studies with them, I can ensure she doesn’t appear when there are guests. Moreover, having one more student would provide mutual competition, beneficial for their progress. He nodded, “As you wish, Mr. Liu, I hope you will teach her diligently.”
Mr. Liu said, “Your son and daughters are young yet know propriety and understand Confucian teachings. Such students are sure to become my pride, and I will certainly teach them with all my heart.”
Qingqing was overwhelmed with sudden joy, her excitement beyond words. The third madam, still not fully understanding, heard Mr. Lin say, “From now on, Qingqing will study with Hong’er and Yafu.”
The third madam, forgetting her fear and annoyance, stood up, laughing, “Master, actually, Qingqing can recite many poems.”
Mr. Lin nodded, “I already know that without you saying.”
Looking at Qingqing in her plain clothes and worn-out shoes, contrasting with the elegantly dressed Yafu, she looked more like her maid. He instructed the butler, “Go to the accounting room, fetch some silver and new fabric for the third madam.”
The third madam, who hadn’t received such treatment in years, only ever getting meager gifts during holidays, was now being personally instructed by Mr. Lin. He said, “Make a few sets of clothes for Qingqing, and a couple of pairs of shoes.”
The third madam quickly pulled Qingqing to bow in gratitude. Mr. Lin then told Qingqing, “Starting tomorrow, you will study with your brother and sister in the study. Remember to respect your elders and love the young.”
