Chapter 14 Chapter Fourteen
Yin'er left the Forbidden City with Master Zhen early in the morning, and drove all the way to the Summer Palace in a sedan chair, it was already past noon.She just entered the palace last year, so this is her first time entering the Summer Palace.Although she had heard Xiuzi and others praise how good this place was more than once in the past, she was still shocked by what she saw when she walked along the Zhichun Pavilion towards the Le Shoutang where Cixi lived.
Looking at the vast expanse of blue waves of Kunming Lake, the dense green Longevity Hill, and the endless promenade beside the lake, she couldn't believe that there is such a beautiful and magnificent place in the world in the capital.She felt that compared with the dreary palace, this place was full of vitality and natural interest.No wonder Lafayette liked it so much, he would go here to escape the summer heat every summer, and lived there until after the Beginning of Autumn, even after the Mid-Autumn Festival before returning to the city.Today is the summer solstice, and it’s not a big or small festival in the palace. Cixi invited the troupe from Tianqiao to sing on the big stage, and let the queen, concubine and princes of all walks of life come here to have a lively time. Fan.
Empress Longyu and other imperial concubines entered the garden a few days ago.Concubine Zhen has been accompanying Guangxu in the capital.Recently, the emperor's new government edict has been issued to the whole country, and the whole court is extremely busy. Guangxu, who is in charge of the overall situation, is busy with government affairs from morning to night.In order to take care of Guangxu, Concubine Zhen didn't want to leave the capital at first, and Cixi had always disliked her and didn't want to make fun of herself, so she refused to come to the Summer Palace. Including her niece, Queen Longyu, was quite critical.Considering that he couldn't get away, if Concubine Zhen didn't go there, Cixi would definitely be upset if she didn't say anything.In order to save Cixi's face, and to prevent the relationship between Concubine Zhen and the elderly from further deteriorating, he weighed it over and over again, and wrote a letter to Concubine Cixi himself, and asked Concubine Zhen to bring it, representing him to this imperial father who is not in the position but has great power. Regards.
Yin'er and several court ladies and eunuchs followed Master Zhen to Renshou Hall.From a long distance, Yin'er saw a light white thing propped up in midair, which looked like a mosquito net hung in summer, but much bigger than the mosquito net, and it was particularly eye-catching among the red walls and yellow tiles.She whispered to the maid beside her, what is that.The maid named Xiaohong told her that the thing was called the ceiling.Unlike the palace, the garden has a lot of mosquitoes in summer, and the canopy is set up to prevent mosquito bites.Taking a closer look, Yin'er couldn't help being stunned. The huge ceiling was made of high-quality cloth, and the workmanship was very exquisite, covering the entire Le Shoutang Hall where Lafayette slept.Oh My God!What a grandeur it is, and how much labor it takes to make such a canopy.
The eunuch guarding the side of the ceiling raised the curtain, allowing Concubine Zhen and Yin'er to enter the ceiling, while the others stayed in the side rooms to wait.
Yin'er followed Concubine Zhen into the Leshou Hall, knelt down to Cixi, and stood behind Master Zhen.Lafayette looked in good spirits.She took Guangxu's letter and asked Li Lianying to read it.After hearing this, she seemed very happy, and repeatedly said that the emperor was filial.Then he asked about Guangxu's body and daily life, and Concubine Zhen answered them one by one.Cixi narrowed her eyes with satisfaction after hearing this, and looked at Concubine Zhen.
Zhen'er is getting more and more juicy!Come, come and sit beside me, and let me take a good look!Cixi pointed to a chair beside her and said, look, how decent it is.Lafayette won the prize.Concubine Zhen knows that Cixi has opinions on her, and every time she sees her, she always feels uneasy, but when she speaks, not only makes outsiders think that she treats her very well, but sometimes even herself is confused by her outstanding performance , I can't tell what the other party is singing.
Do you know why I called you here?Cixi asked.
It's time for Zhen'er to wait on Lafayette.Concubine Zhen answered cautiously.
In fact, if you serve the emperor well, you have done your filial piety to me!The emperor is still so busy these days?
Yes, I get up early and sleep late every day, and I have to get up at night before I can go to sleep.
If you are good at writing and ink, you should help the emperor more.
Lafayette!Concubine Zhen is vigilant in her heart, but she smiles naturally on her face. According to the family law of her ancestors, concubines are not allowed to interfere in the government affairs.Zhen'er doesn't dare to get involved, so what do I know?Even if you want to blend it, you can't blend it.
Look at what this kid said.Family law also has its own life.Cixi said so, but she was thinking in her heart, among all the concubines, you are the only one who likes to mix things up the most. Now that the emperor is launching a new policy, you are more active than anyone else in following the emperor.Obviously the words were not speculative, so she changed the subject and talked about singing today, there is a good show today.The little name is Tian'er, and the nine gusts of wind go up to the dam.How boring you are staying in the palace, let you relax and feast your eyes.
Thank you Lafayette!Concubine Zhen has always disliked watching operas, but now she pretends to be happy.
Look, you're on your way early in the morning, haven't you eaten yet?Come on, go to eat first, and then go to say hello to the queen, don't make her feel unhappy.Cixi said with concern, when you come back, go to the theater with me.Stay a few more nights in the garden, and don't rush back to the city.
Concubine Zhen nodded quickly and said yes.
Yin'er stood there, listening to the questions and answers between Lafayette and Master Zhen, remembering the rumors in the palace that Lafayette and Master Zhen were struggling, the more she heard it, the more she felt that it was not the case, at least Lafayette was very sincere, even Master Zhen He noticed all the little things in etiquette between him and the queen, and reminded her without losing the opportunity.But then again, where there is no wind, there is no wave. If the masters on both sides had nothing to care about, Ping'er's incident would not have happened, so it is very likely that someone else is causing trouble.The first person who made her suspicious was Manager Li.She glanced at Li Lianying standing behind Cixi, and saw that he had a long donkey face, and his small eyes were narrowed into a line. The more she looked, the more she felt that was the case.I can't complain that people say that there are villains around adults, and it is these villains who do bad things.Looking at Lafayette, I thought to myself, how could such a bright and intelligent person like her be led by the nose by Mr. Li.
Ever since she followed Master Zhen into the door, Lafayette kept talking to Master Zhen, as if he didn't recognize her, which made her feel unspeakably disappointed, wondering if Lafayette still hated her for what happened last time.As she was thinking so, Lafayette suddenly raised his head and cast his gaze towards her.
Who is that?Look at a little shadow!Cixi suddenly pointed to Yin'er and asked Concubine Zhen, as if she had just discovered her.Concubine Zhen quickly said that she was Yin'er, a court lady beside her, who was rewarded to her by Lafayette. Concubine Zhen wondered whether Cixi was pretending to be confused or really confused.Yin'er hurriedly stepped forward and knelt down, calling the servant Yin'er to kowtow to Lafayette.
get up.Where are you still alive?Cixi glared at her deliberately, her tone was very cold.In fact, Yin'er recognized her as soon as she entered the door.Before that, she had hinted that Li Lianying sent someone to find Yin'er and ask her about her current situation.It was said that Master Zhen liked Yin'er very much, and asked her to be the aunt in charge of the deputy head in Jingren Palace, and took her with her everywhere.She is smarter than Ping'er, and because Concubine Zhen has protected her, Concubine Zhen will not be too wary of her.Right now is an extraordinary moment, Cixi is in the Summer Palace, but her heart is in the palace, so many princes and ministers count on her, she can't ignore the affairs of the court.Therefore, it is more important than ever to keep track of Concubine Zhen and the emperor's movements, and Yin'er is just the best candidate. If she can send letters to this side from time to time, she will definitely be better than Ping'er, and she will never make trouble. Out of Pinger's clumsy stupidity.
She's not mad at you, is she?Cixi asked Concubine Zhen, the more she wanted to use Yin'er in her heart, the more she pushed Yin'er towards Concubine Zhen.
This kid is quite obedient.Concubine Zhen is actually two or three years older than Yin'er, but her status is different, so she is called a child.
That's good, let her catch her breath for a few more days, it's not her place to listen to the opera.Cixi said to Concubine Zhen calmly.
Yin'er has been by Cixi's side for more than a year. She doesn't believe that Lafayette has not recognized her for a long time since she came in.If you say she is old, it's only been a few days, and she can become like this all of a sudden.To say that she is pretending to be confused, why is it necessary.She used to be someone close to Lafayette, but she was rewarded by the old queen mother to Master Zhen after she committed a crime. It is said that she could follow Master Zhen back to her side, so why would she pretend not to recognize her.In short, she would never know what Lafayette was thinking, and she would never know what she was thinking about Xiuzi, Pinger and herself, including Master Zhen.Perhaps it is precisely because she can never be understood that people have an indescribable awe of her.
After Master Zhen went to the Queen's side to say hello, he came to Le Shoutang again, and accompanied Cixi to the Grand Theater to watch a play.Master Zhen's other attendants followed to watch the fun, because Lafayette had sent a message not to let Yin'er go, so she had to stay alone in the servant's room in the side courtyard of Renshou Hall to rest.Unexpectedly, Lafayette still hated her because of Ping'er.Standing by the window, she looked at the green trees and red flowers all over the yard, and the piles of artificial rocks brought from the great lake, comforting herself in her heart: It's fine not to go to the theater, it's fine to be alone here for a while.
Ever since she told her about Rong Qing's job with the emperor, her heart was like a pile of resurgent ashes, and a thought was about to move.It seemed like a hopeless, purposeless, even meaningless thought, to see him again.She couldn't tell why she wanted to see him, let alone what she wanted to say to him after seeing him, in short, she just wanted to see him, even if she didn't say anything, just seeing him was enough for her.
Li Lianying quietly walked into the east-facing couch room, and seeing Yin'er standing by the window in a daze, she coughed lightly.Yin'er hurriedly turned around and found Li Lianying standing by the door with a smile on her long face.
Manager Li!
Yin girl!Why didn't you go to the theater?Li Lianying asked knowingly.
Lafayette let me stay.Yin'er smiled, knowing that the other party had nothing to say.
I just came out of there, and "Bitter Meat" was being sung on the stage.Zhou Yu beat Huang Gai, one willing to fight and the other willing to suffer, that was a good show.Li Lianying smiled and sat down at the coffee table, and asked about Yin'er's work with Master Zhen, and whether she wanted to go back to Chuxiu Palace.
What's the use of thinking?That's what the master meant, let me work wherever I am.
Well said, well said!Miss Yin, you are much more sensible than before.Li Lianying pointed to the empty chair on the other side of the coffee table and told her to sit down. After Yin'er sat down, he closed the door and said to her in a low voice: Miss Yin, if you want to go back to Lafayette, I can help you.As long as you work hard and sing a bitter trick, you will be a yellow cover once.
As soon as she heard that the other party replaced the usual you with you, Yin'er's heart was already tensed, and then she was even more surprised when she heard that the other party wanted her to play tricks and make her a yellow cover.No matter how stupid she was, she could still understand the meaning of these words, he wanted to be Ping'er again, she lowered her head, her heart was pounding, she bit her tongue hard and did not speak.
do not worry.You know, I know, God knows, Earth knows, no third person knows.This girl Ping'er is too stupid, after the show is over, I'll just watch you sing from now on.Seeing that Yin'er was silent, Li Lianying was not in a hurry, and played with the snuff bottle in her hand, patiently enlightening her.
I can't sing at all.Yin'er pondered for a while, then bit the bullet and said something.
It's easy.If there is any movement from Master Zhen, you can just write two characters, and I will ask Xiao Hui to go back and pick them up. If you don't want to leave your words, you can just talk to Xiao Hui.
You let others do it, I can't, I can't do it!
Others are in the light, you are in the dark.Each has its own advantages.Besides, Master Zhen is close to you.
Steward!I beg you.I don't understand anything, I can't do it, I really can't do it, and maybe something will happen in the end!
Having said that, you have to do it if you do it, or you have to do it if you don’t.Li Lianying lowered her donkey face and turned her face when she said it. These days are critical, if you fail in singing, don't blame the audience for dragging her down, it's up to that point.Parents and mothers get married, everyone cares about others, no one can save you!
Is this what Lafayette means?As soon as Yin'er heard that tone, he immediately realized the seriousness of the problem. It was not just his intention. Even if he was the manager, the celebrities around Lafayette would not dare to compete with the emperor alone.She suddenly understood that Lafayette didn't let her go to the theater because he wanted to separate her from Master Zhen so that Manager Li could talk to her about it in his free time.
Then don't ask.
No, I want to meet Lafayette!
How proud are you?
Manager Li!Yin'er remembered Chashui Zhang reminded her about Ping'er's experience, and thought that she must not set foot on this boat, and once she got on, she would never get off again.Don't say that Master Zhen has saved her life, even if there is no such thing, as a slave, she must not get involved in this kind of thing.Thinking of this, she quoted what Cha Shui Zhang had said, and reasoned with the other party with a bitter face.Think about it, both sides are masters, and they both hold my little life.Mother, son, mother-in-law and daughter-in-law, even if there is a stumbling block, after all, it is a family, where should I insert it?Aren't you setting me on fire?
Don’t be afraid to sing badly, I’m here.You haven't seen Ping'er, who caused such a disaster, didn't Lafayette forcefully protect her?Li Lianying knew that what the other party said was reasonable, but his words were rigid, and this was what Lafayette asked him to do, so he had to do it even if he didn't want to.
Then I will have nowhere to find you!If you want my life, don't go around in such a big circle.Seeing that the other party's tone was soft, Yin'er simply opened up and said it to the end.Heh, a very transparent person, how could he be so confused?Li Lianying put the neti pot under the tip of her nose and sniffed vigorously a few times: Listen to me talking to you, don't look at Lafayette pressing the fire, the emperor and Master Zhen
Yin'er tightly covered her ears with both hands, and yelled: I didn't listen, I didn't hear.Li Lianying became anxious, opened her mouth wide in anger to scold her, but held back her words, and yelled at Yin'er:
So, Lafayette has to tell you personally?
I believe in Lafayette alone!Yin'er made up her mind, although she was very scared in her heart, she put on a determined determination on her face.
In the middle of the play, Cixi in the stands fell asleep amidst the loud sound of gongs and drums.The eunuchs and maids serving beside her, including Empress Longyu, Concubine Zhen, Concubine Jin, and the prince's Fujin all didn't know whether to wake her up, let her continue to sleep, or simply stop the show on stage.Everyone got together to discuss, hoping that Empress Longyu could make up her mind.But she had no idea.At this time, one play was over, and another play was about to start. Concubine Zhen immediately asked people to stop the gongs and drums on the stage, so that the singers could rest for a while, so that Cixi could sleep for a while, and the other Fujin wives who were watching the play Take a break too.
Strange to say, when the gongs and drums stopped, Cixi woke up instead.As soon as she woke up, she kept asking why the stage stopped singing.Longyu quickly said that it was Zhenfei's idea, so that Lafayette could sleep for a while.Cixi rubbed her eyes and said that she was old and wanted to be in the past, she didn't even care if she looked around for a day.She waved her sleeves and asked the stage to continue singing, saying that she couldn't break the ancestor's rules because of her alone, there is no one who doesn't sing in the summer solstice, and finally everyone decided to let Cixi go back to the palace to rest for a while, and then come here to watch after resting.Anyway, according to the rules here, the play will be performed from afternoon to night, for two consecutive days.Cixi refused at first, but couldn't stand the persuasion of everyone, so she had to agree to go back to the palace for a rest.Before leaving, she said to Longyu and Concubine Zhen, you are the heads of the palace, and you are not allowed to leave when I leave, and she specifically told Longyu: When Xiao Jiaotian'er comes to the stage, you must stop first, and just play some tricks, Then send someone to call me, and let him wait for me!The empress knew that she was addicted to drama, so she nodded her head repeatedly, so that Cixi was forced to be helped down from the stands, and left in a soft sedan chair.
The play on the big stage continued to be sung.Most of the people watching the play were female relatives. As soon as Cixi left, the prince's Fujin and concubines relaxed a lot, and the slaps became louder than before.Concubine Zhen didn't want to watch the play, but she was still thinking about Yin'er who stayed in Renshou Hall. Cixi was not here, so she wanted Xiaohong next to her to ask her to come here to take a look, otherwise she would take a hard trip with herself, and even the famous I haven't seen the big stage, so it's not too bad.After thinking for a long time, she still didn't let Xiaohong call Yin'er, because there are too many eyes and ears here.
Originally, she always felt that Cixi didn't let Yin'er go to the theater with her, and there seemed to be something tricky about it.Among other things, Yin'er has been in the hall for a long time, but she didn't recognize it, maybe it was a deliberate feign.Just now I saw Cixi fell asleep while watching the play, maybe she is really old.After all, she is already in her 60s and is on her way to 70. No matter how good her health is, she can't keep up with her age!Thinking of how many princes and ministers went to the Summer Palace recently to sue the old queen, she was worried at first, but now she breathed a sigh of relief.As long as the emperor stays up for another two years and seizes several key departments of the military aircraft department, the world will soon belong to the emperor.
Cixi did not go back to Le Shoutang to sleep.In fact, she was not sleepy, she just pretended to be seen by others, especially Concubine Zhen, and she asked someone to carry her all the way to the Buddha Fragrance Pavilion. In order to avoid people's eyes and ears, she specially chose to meet Yin'er here.
Cixi was leaning on a mahogany couch, and beside the couch was a long copper pipe and a set of tools for offering cigarettes.She picked up the cigarette bag several times and put it down again, picked up the blue cigarette in the paper bag, put it under the tip of her nose, and sniffed the fragrance inside.After a while, Li Lianying walked in and told her softly that Yin'er was here.
As soon as Li Lianying finished speaking, Yin'er walked in from the door.As soon as she entered, Yin'er was stunned when she met Cixi's piercing eyes.This look is completely different from when she met Master Zhen at Le Shoutang just now, it reminded her of the usual majesty of Lafayette, the content in Cixi's eyes could not be more clear, she did not forget her at all, let alone not recognize her .Then why did she pretend to be a fool just now?Yin'er knelt on the ground, kowtowing while thinking in her heart.
Yiner!Cixi stared at Yin'er, pondered for a moment, and suddenly asked an unexpected question straight to the point, do you hate me?
Lafayette!Yin'er froze there, at a loss for a while, and chatted for a long time, the slave deserved what he deserved, and he didn't hate Lafayette.
You don't speak your mind.Cixi said calmly.
The slave dares to swear, I said it from the bottom of my heart.
What if I really beat you to death that day?
I can only blame the slaves for not knowing the rules.There are thousands of people in the Sangong and Sixth Courtyard, and Lafayette has to worry about them.If you don't start from the people around you, others will not be convinced!Thinking of that day when Cixi said that Ping'er was going to be executed, the pipe in her hand almost poked Lafayette's mouth, a fine sweat broke out on her forehead.
Do you still think you are by my side?Cixi's tone softened a lot.
Only those around me know that Lafayette is not easy.Cixi let out a long breath, nodded slightly, and said: Well, I saw the right person.Yiner!Lafayette ordered, your monthly bills here will remain as usual, and all will be kept for you.Li Lianying interrupted without losing the opportunity.
Lafayette!This slave dare not accept it.Yin'er was startled, and hurriedly kowtowed on the ground.
get up.Cixi glanced at the copper pipe on the coffee table.
Lafayette, my servant presents you with cigarettes.Yin'er immediately stepped forward to pick up the cigarette pouch, squatted on the ground, filled the cigarette skillfully as usual, lit the fire, lit the paper medium, and then passed the pipe to Cixi's mouth. On the tobacco pot filled with shredded tobacco, everything was so skillful, so clean and tidy, Cixi took a long puff of the cigarette, looked at the cloud of blue-gray smoke around her head, and then decided in her heart that she was right.
What is understanding?That is, a wink, nothing else is needed, Yin'er did everything Cixi wanted her to do.Before Yin'er entered the door, Cixi deliberately put a smoking set on the coffee table, to see if the court lady could still serve her as carefully as before.From Cixi's point of view, whether Yin'er can do it is not only a question of whether she is smart or not, but a test of whether a slave is loyal to her master.
Cixi smoked several bags of cigarettes in a row, and then leaned on the couch with satisfaction and comfort.Yin'er put away the smoking set, and gently massaged the empress dowager's back shoulders.Pressing and pressing, Cixi gradually became sleepy, closed her eyes, and relaxed her body and mind, enjoying this satisfaction.Yin'er wondered, Manager Li asked her to come here to meet Lafayette in order to ask Cixi to ask her to monitor Concubine Zhen in Jingren Palace, but Cixi didn't say anything.Yin'er wanted to ask several times but held back.If the master doesn't talk about any topic in the palace, the slave can't bring it up first.
Li Lianying was more anxious than Yin'er.He patted his chest in front of Yin'er and assured her that it was Lafayette's idea to ask her to inquire about the situation with Master Zhen. To prove this, he brought her to the Buddha Fragrance Pavilion to kowtow to Cixi.Fortunately, Cixi smoked a cigarette and said a lot of irrelevant things, but she didn't mention a word about letting Yin'er play a trick.He blinked his eyes, and wanted to lead the conversation here a few times, seeing that Lafayette was motionless with his eyes closed, he thought to himself that she had already slept in at noon, why did she feel sleepy again.
Cixi suddenly opened her eyes and saw Li Lianying standing aside, she couldn't help laughing.What's the matter with me today, why did I fall asleep again.
Lafayette, this servant is about to talk to you. Li Lianying seized the opportunity and wanted to tell her about Yin'er.
You see, if you want to sleep for a while, you won't be able to sleep peacefully, and you will be woken up again.Cixi glared at each other unhappily.
Lafayette, Yin'er is here!She insists on asking you to tell her face to face!Li Lianying was afraid that she would fall asleep again later, so she didn't care about it anymore, so she knelt down beside the couch.
By the way, if Cixi realizes something, she turns to look at Yin'er after a while, and I want to talk to you.
Lafayette, please order!Yin'er let go of the hands that were massaging Cixi's shoulders, and stood there in awe.
Yin'er, you remember.Cixi pondered for a while and said, don't care what Director Li told you, don't believe it!He doesn't make any fuss, it doesn't seem to show him.
Lafayette!The servant Li Lianying felt aggrieved when she heard this, and thought to herself that she had ordered it herself, so how could she push it all away at this moment.Cixi glared at him, obviously not to let him speak, so he had no choice but to stand there, took out the snuff bottle, just about to put it under the tip of his nose, but quickly retracted it.
As soon as I saw you, I remembered the time when I was a court lady.Cixi said to Yin'er with a pleasant smile.
Lafayette was a court lady?It was the first time Yin'er heard about it, and Lafayette said it himself, which surprised her very much.
Give your ladies a long face, right?Who said that the women in the house are going to serve others all their lives?Your Lafayette was also born as a court lady.Cixi pointed at Li Lianying, he knows this matter best, I told him a long time ago
Lafayette!That's an old story from many years ago. You see Li Lianying smiling with you, but secretly complaining in your heart. I don't know what kind of muscle the old man has twisted. He suddenly talked about these disgraceful things to a servant who is a court lady. , he lowered his head, and sneaked a peek at Cixi from the corner of his eye, not knowing what kind of trick she was playing again, leaving the serious business aside, stirring up old sesame seeds and rotten millet from decades ago.I don't mention it, someone mentions it!Forty-six years, it's rare that they still remember!Cixi obviously ignored Li Lianying, and talked about these past events with Yin'er more and more excitedly. They are all nobles of the dynasty, sons and daughters of phoenixes and dragons.Such a great Qing Dynasty, why did you let me be the family?Once you become one, you become it, and once you become it, it lasts for decades.Dissatisfied?deserve it!Speaking of this, she couldn't help laughing out loud.After laughing for a while, she asked Yin'er to pick up the teacup on the coffee table, let her take a sip, and then continued to say to Yin'er: "Being a court lady has probably been the same since ancient times."Mouth more than a dumb man, breath more than a dead man, watching his master's face all day long.When the master is angry, you are a venting bag; when the master is unlucky, the slave follows suit.After ten or eight years, if you can go out with all your needs and tails, then you have accumulated great virtue in eight lifetimes!
After hearing Cixi's words, Yin'er was very moved, and felt that she and Lafayette had suddenly become much closer.It turned out that she also had the same experience as herself. Thinking of Li Lianying forcing herself to play a trick for him just now, the more she thought about it, the more she felt that it was Mr. Li's own intention and had nothing to do with Lafayette.She swallowed her saliva, thankful that she was not fooled by Li Lianying, and believed that the relationship between Lafayette, the emperor, and Master Zhen was so tense because people like Li Lianying provoked it. To be unhappy.
The more Li Lianying heard it, the more she felt that what Cixi said was outrageous.He remembered that Cixi was selected into the palace as the concubine of Emperor Xianfeng.It's just that her status is very low, and she is the lowest class of concubines who are promised or often present.These people often stay in the palace for several years without seeing the emperor, some even for a lifetime, and they are not like palace maids, they can never be released from the palace.These people are usually widows, and the emperor will keep the tablet for the rest of his life. In a sense, the fate of these people is worse than that of court ladies.But there is one thing, no matter how low the status of these people is, they are different from court ladies, and the family members dare to show off that they have married the royal family outside.He didn't understand why Lafayette mentioned this experience to Yin'er, and he didn't understand why she said that she had also been a court lady. Wasn't it because he deliberately didn't give himself face?He was in a hurry, scratching his ears for a while, coughing for a while, trying to think of a way to remind Lafayette not to talk about these boring past events in front of his slaves.
Cixi saw what Li Lianying meant, so she sent him away and asked him to go to the big stage to find out when Xiao Xiaotian would be on stage. With unspeakable disappointment in my heart, I left helplessly.
As soon as he left, only Cixi and Yin'er were left in the room. The old lady spoke more vigorously, not treating her as a slave at all, as if she was a bosom friend, talking about something that few people knew many years ago.It turned out that Cixi also liked to kick shuttlecock back then, and she played as many tricks as Yin'er, and could kick more than 300 times in one breath.It was by kicking the shuttlecock that she was favored by Emperor Xianfeng.Speaking of these past events, Cixi was immersed in girlish joy.
Who would have thought wow, kicked like crazy that time, didn't see someone behind him, a shuttlecock was kicked flying, and landed on that person's face, guess who is that person?Cixi never mentioned this matter to anyone, not even Li Lianying, her most confidant.
have no idea.Yin'er shook her head, unable to stop being curious.
You guessed it, but dare not say it.That person is my late emperor!
The first emperor?Yin'er asked in surprise.
Everyone present was terrified and thought I was going to die.In the end, I hit the first lottery and got rich and honor with one kick, but the first emperor just happened to take his fancy.What a feathered shuttlecock, Wanli Jinjiangshan!
Yin'er stared at Cixi intently.At this moment, she has subconsciously forgotten the supreme authority of Cixi sitting on the opposite couch, and she has forgotten that she is an old man over sixty years old.The other party's narration was full of girlish tenderness, which made her feel that the woman in front of her was just like herself, a daughter of mortal flesh and bones, with joys, sorrows, sorrows and joys in the world, and what other people have, she also has.
Unexpectedly, forty years later, another good shuttlecock came out.What a pity, what a pity, you only hit the empress dowager, not the emperor!Cixi teased Yin'er happily.
Lafayette, the slave doesn't mean that!One word from the other party dragged Yin'er back to the grim reality.
Does that mean, are you still alive today?Hey, beat my legs again!Cixi put away the smile on her face, simply slid down from the back of the chair, and lay flat on the couch.
Yin'er hurriedly beat her leg.Cixi repeatedly said that she was comfortable, and just about to close her eyes, Li Lianying hurried in, saying that Xiaojiao Tianxia was about to take the stage. When Cixi heard this, she immediately sat up in her chair and asked people to prepare a soft sedan chair, saying that she was going to watch the theater there. .Li Lianying sent a message to the door, helping Cixi up, while thinking about her and Yin'er.He asked in a low voice: Lafayette, what happened?Cixi replied loudly on purpose: I'm fine.Yin'er sneered in her heart, feeling that Li Lianying hadn't tricked her.Li Lianying was stunned, and stood there silently for a long time. If Cixi hadn't urged him to go to the theater, he didn't know how long he would have stood here.
Returning to the palace from the Summer Palace, Master Zhen went to the Hall of Mental Cultivation to talk to the emperor for a while, and then came back early.It was said that the emperor was very busy, and he was going to summon Kang Youwei and others in the palace tonight, so Master Zhen had to sleep alone in Jingren Palace.Normally, Master Zhen spends the night in the Hall of Mental Cultivation, and occasionally the emperor comes here.If the emperor came, the person on duty would have to sit outside the door all night.Yin'er opened her eyes, staring at the night cover on the gauze lamp in a daze.In this darkness, her mind is particularly good, and she can suddenly become enlightened about things that she usually can't understand clearly, but she still can't figure out the reason for what Lafayette told her a few days ago
Fell asleep?Concubine Zhen was used to being with Guangxu, but she felt awkward sleeping alone, she tossed and turned on the bed, but couldn't fall asleep.She wanted Yin'er to talk to her, but she didn't agree, so she raised her head in doubt: Yin'er! |
I am awake!Yin'er woke up from her contemplation, and suddenly straightened her body to answer.
What are you thinking?
Master Zhen, don't think about anything.
What's the matter today, I can't sleep.
Shall I beat your legs?Yin'er propped up her upper body with both hands.
Need not.You sit with me for a while.Concubine Zhen pointed to the footbed by the bed where the shoes were placed.Yin'er sat down on the floor made of mahogany, not knowing what to say, waiting for Master Zhen to start.
You said, what did Lafayette ask me to do that day?
Listen to the play.Yin'er said without thinking.
Just listening to the show?Concubine Zhen shook her head suspiciously, as if asking herself or Yin'er.Seeing that the other party didn't speak, she pondered for a moment, then continued, logically speaking, Lafayette should ask me about the emperor, but why didn't she mention a word?
Maybe Lafayette knows.Yin'er said.
Yes, someone had already told her.Concubine Zhen said pointedly.I was very puzzled by the fact that Cixi refused to let Yin'er go to the big stage with her to watch a play and left her in the Hall of Renshou. In addition, someone reported that Yin'er had frequent contacts with Wang Huihui, the little eunuch next to Cixi. Together, she was even more puzzled.She didn't take it seriously when she heard about Yin'er and Xiao Huihui.She feels that Yin'er is not cunning, nor is she desperately trying to climb up like Ping'er, plus she saved her life, she is not grateful to Dade, and she will never do anything to be sorry for herself.But after the incident at the Summer Palace the day before yesterday, Concubine Zhen no longer dared to vouch for Yin'er as before. After returning, she told Guangxu about the situation.Guangxu advised her to focus on the overall situation, pretending to be confused on the surface, and then inquire in private, and don't startle the snake first. Concubine Zhen is quick-tempered, so she couldn't help asking Yin'er herself.
Master Zhen!Yin'er heard the other party's voice, and hurriedly argued that what should be said should not be said, but the slave girl never said anything!
really not?
I dare to swear to the temple god!
What did Xiaohui come back to find you a few days ago?
Little Huihui?Yin'er's heart was shocked, she didn't expect to let her know about her meeting with Xiao Huihui.
It's the little eunuch from Chuxiu Palace!Concubine Zhen stared at Yin'er and said, why is he looking for you?
He, he came to me, nothing happened
How dare you lie to me?Concubine Zhen pressed her hard, not letting her catch her breath.
By the way, the master did not take a foreign picture for me, I asked him to show it to my family, nothing else!Yin'er mentions the photo Concubine Zhen took for her.
Yiner!Concubine Zhen suddenly sat up from the bed, and sneered coldly, do you think I'm easy to bully?There is no stick in Jingren Palace, but the emperor has one.
Master Zhen!Yin'er thumped and knelt by the bed, feeling unspeakable panic in her heart.Why do they all look the same when they are masters, if they change their faces, they will change their faces.Master Zhen has always been kind to others, and she has never seen her play with her servants. She never thought that her face would be scary if she changed her face.She lay on the ground, feeling unspeakable grievances in her heart, thinking that Manager Li would force her like that, and she would not agree to work secretly for him, but this side suspected that she was playing tricks with that side.She gritted her teeth, wishing she could open her chest and dig out her heart for the other party to see. I dare to swear that I will never be sorry to you in the slightest, otherwise I will be struck to death by lightning, and I will not be able to see the sun tomorrow!
Let me ask you, little Huihui, what else did he tell you besides sending you photos?Concubine Zhen ignored what she said about other things, and asked about Xiao Huihui.
Thinking about Xiao Huihui mentioned Rongqing to her, could it be that Master Zhen also knew about it.If there was anything she was hiding from her, it was this matter.For the sake of Rongqing, that is to kill her, she can't say anything.Thinking of this, Yin'er felt very painful, wondering why this enemy didn't enter the palace sooner or later, but why did she enter the palace soon, and Xiao Huihui happened to run into each other, it was all fate.
You speak, why don't you speak?
Don't ask, Master Zhen, I can't tell!
Yin'er, this is not me asking you, but the Qing Dynasty asking you.Master Zhen suddenly felt that the problem was serious, stood up from the bed, and shouted sharply.
Master Zhen, Yin'er is lying in front of the bed, kowtowing again and again, even if you beat me to death, I can't tell!
explain!What's going on here?Seeing that Yin'er was lying on the ground and refused to speak, Concubine Zhen was obviously very angry. She pointed at her and said, "I was the one who got you out from under the messy stick. When you arrive at Jingren Palace, what will I do to you?"It can be said that I never said anything serious about you, and never gave you a face.Can't you just tell me the truth?
Master Zhen, I guarantee with my head that this matter has nothing to do with you, the emperor, the empress dowager or the court.There is only one person involved here, this person is my life, I live for him, I respect you, love you, but don't force me to tell him!Yin'er lay there, crying before she finished speaking.
You mean he is the one in your heart?Concubine Zhen is moved by Yin'er's sincerity and bravery.
Yes, the man who the servant almost got into the sedan chair with him.吟兒跪在地上，臉上的神情非常凝重，喃喃低語地說，珍主子，奴才這條命本是您給的，這會兒您想怎麼樣都行，吟兒絕無半點怨言。
珍妃沒想到會問出這樣一個結果。按祖宗的規矩，宮女絕不能嫁人在先，然後進宮入奴。也不可人在宮中，仍然對宮外的男人有這種掛念，更不用說有任何實際上的聯繫了，望著跪在地下的吟兒，珍妃心裡大為震動。一方面同情她，另一方面覺得這事兒挺嚴重，這事兒要讓人知道了可得掉腦袋啊！
除了我，這事兒還有誰知道？珍妃問。
宮裡沒有人知道。求主子千萬替奴婢瞞著。吟兒跪在地上，抬起一雙淚眼求著對方。
你讓小回回傳話，他能不知道？珍妃懷疑地問。
主子放心，他蒙在鼓裡，啥也不知道，就連那男人也不知道。吟兒要是有一句假話，立即撞死在您面前！
你先起來吧。
主子不答應，奴婢不敢起來啊！
珍妃在屋裡來回走了一圈，心裡冒出一串問題，這男人在哪兒，小回回幫他倆傳話，怎麼會不知道他倆之間的事。想來想去，她總也想不明白。她很想問個明明白白。但轉念一想，吟兒已經將這性命攸關的要害告訴了她，而且表示她絕不會說出有關那男人的情況，再要問不只是不相信她，也有負她對自己一片信任，過了半晌，她才對吟兒說，只要她不惹出禍來，這事兒就到此為止了。
就這麼著。就算爛在我肚裡了！珍妃伸手拉對方起來。吟兒不肯起來，趴在地下一連磕了三個響頭，聲淚俱下地說：
謝珍主子大恩大德。吟兒這輩子報不了主子大恩大德，來世一定替主子當牛作馬！
下午，天特別悶熱，榮慶接到茶水章傳來皇上口諭，讓他立即去養心殿，說皇上有事召見他。他穿過養心門，進了大殿右側的西廳，只見光緒皇上一個人站在大殿的窗櫺前，兩眼望著窗外發呆。榮慶猶豫片刻，跨上前一步，跪在地上給光緒請大安，口中叫著皇上萬歲萬歲萬萬歲。
榮慶，起來吧。光緒轉身揮揮衣袖，你還在乾清門值班吧？
是，隔天一次班。
朕有件小事，不知你能不能辦？光緒沉吟地。
皇上只管差遣，榮慶萬死不辭！榮慶一聽，慌忙再次跪下領命。
也沒那麼玄。你起來。光緒笑笑。
Thank you, Your Majesty!
有個小太監叫王回回，是不是常出常入？
回皇上話，是有這麼個人。榮慶立即想起那個長得眉清目秀的小回回，不知皇上什麼意思，心裡有些緊張。因為他還指望有一天能讓他替自己捎個口信給吟兒。
你替朕盤查一下。他本應該常在頤和園侍候皇太后，不知為什麼經常往城裡跑，好像跟什麼宮女有來往。光緒說得很含蓄，甚至有些含混不清。與軍中明確簡單的命令正相反，宮中的主子說事都說半截兒，剩下的讓你自個兒去猜。榮慶已經慢慢習慣了宮中的做派，不管明白或不明白，反正都順著皇上意思說就成了。
這好辦，奴才抽空把他抓起來，找個背靜地兒盤問一下。榮慶答得挺快。
No.光緒沉吟半晌說，這件事不能明刀明斧，最好別在宮中盤問他，至於什麼地兒，你自己另想辦法。
這榮慶不解地望著光緒，心想小回回不就一個十四五歲小太監，怕他什麼。
他是皇太后宮裡的人，朕不想驚動別人，明白了？光緒看出對方心裡疑惑，知道他們這些軍士不比宮中的太監，心眼兒死，話要說透才行。想到這兒又叮囑了上句，另外，不要跟任何人提這件事。有什麼情況，你直接稟報朕就成了。
twitter!The slave obeys the order.榮慶雙手抱拳，挺直了身子恭恭敬敬地回答。他在承德當兵時別說見統領大人，就是見個參軍副將之類的人物也不容易。可在這兒，皇上親自讓他辦事，而護軍大營中的統領想見皇上一面，那也是難上加難啊。想到這兒，他心裡說不出的得意，同時也覺得皇上身邊無小事，再小的事也是大事。因此，無論如何他也得將皇上交辦的事兒辦得漂漂亮亮。
交侍了小回回的事，光緒問起他的槍法練得如何。他連忙說他天天在練，比剛拿到手槍時大有長進，就是子彈太少，不敢練得太勤。光緒當即給他寫了個條，讓他找三旗包衣軍需處邊佳將軍，讓他從那兒多領幾匣子彈。你只管真槍實彈練。哪一天朕要考考你了。榮慶請了跪安，離開養心殿後一路回到軍機處不遠處的值房。
他回到值房，心裡思忖起皇上交辦的事，越想越覺著這事兒重要，自己也因為這事兒變得重要起來。他暗暗決定先跟手下衛士打個招呼，哪天見到小回回從頤和園回來，立即通知他。這樣等到小回回離開宮中時，他悄悄跟蹤他，在宮外找個背靜處再下手，他正想著這事兒，軍機處一位隨員進來找他，說瑞王要他去一趟軍機處朝房。
一聽瑞王找他，自然不敢怠慢，立即跟著隨員到了瑞王的朝房。隨員留在門外，示意榮慶一個人進去。他走進朝房，見瑞王正在吃早點，他剛要叩首敬禮，瑞王連連擺手說免禮，指著書案邊的椅子讓他坐。
我說榮慶啊，你抖啦。軍機還沒召見哪，先叫你個起兒。是不是龍心大悅了，要賞你個紅頂子了？瑞王喝了一大口茶，連吞帶咽地清了清嘴裡醬羊肉，抹了抹嘴邊上的油，咧開大嘴笑起來。
王爺意思是？榮慶心裡暗暗思忖，瑞王是個軍人，是個痛快人，怎麼一進這宮門說話味兒也變了，讓你懂又不讓你全懂。想到這兒，他跟在皇上面前一樣，順著對方話茬走唄。
還裝什麼大瓣兒蒜！往後咱們爺兒倆就得一殿為臣了吧？瑞王不滿意地瞪起圓眼。
Lord!這話說到哪兒去了。皇上問我槍法練的怎麼樣了？還說哪天要考考我呢。榮慶知道不說些什麼過不了關。
皇上一大早叫你去他身邊獨對兒，就這兩句旨意？瑞王疑慮地盯著榮慶，想從他臉上找出所需的東西。
what do you mean?榮慶認準一個理，他既然是皇上的人，就得死死跟著皇上。雖說是瑞王保舉他到皇上身邊當差，主子只能是一個，那就是皇上。所以他絕不能說出皇上交辦的事，要想不說，只有裝傻，就像那天在皇上面前不能說瑞王爺的事兒一樣，他一裝傻，瑞王那邊頓時變得聰明了，
這裡頭有點兒意思養兵為用兵，皇上想用兵了？瑞王認真地揣摸起光緒問他練槍法的話。心想榮慶是自己保舉來的，又跟傻兒子拜了把子，不會跟他耍花樣。
Lord!您說，這鬧好了，會不會讓我當個御前侍衛？榮慶這一問，瑞王更認定他沒說假話。
準不住！瑞王看他一眼，想陞官兒了？
think.當了御前，也許就能見著老佛爺了。
一提起見老佛爺的事，瑞王忍不住哈哈大笑。那天在他們家，由小格格頂替他傻七哥跟榮慶拜過把兄弟後，榮慶趁著酒勁兒提出要瑞王帶他見老佛爺。瑞王爺問他為什麼要見皇太后？他反問瑞王，說你當初在承德不是代表皇太后犒賞三軍，說了老佛爺如何英明，自然想見見這位了不得的聖母皇太后。瑞王見他說得有理，只得告訴他，說他現在官職太小，等十年八年再說。當時榮慶就沉下臉，一副不高興的樣子。
你沒忘這茬兒，就是好小子！我逗你哪！一塊吃點兒桂順齋的醬羊肉，剛出鍋兒。瑞王樂壞了，一定要他吃，榮慶說不餓，瑞王瞪起兩眼，問他是不是皇上賞他飯了。榮慶一聽急了，伸手撕了一大塊羊肉放進嘴裡。
一大早，小回回便離開皇宮出了神武門，榮慶一路跟著他。因為早有準備，榮慶換了一身便裝，遠遠尾隨著這位小太監。榮慶跟在小回回身後，走到西四大街十字路口一帶，見小回回進了一個當鋪，心裡覺得納悶，這小太監上那兒去幹什麼？他愣了一會兒，突然想起別人說過有關太監由宮中偷東西的故事，這才明白過來，三步並作兩步地跑進那家當鋪。
小回回正趴在高高的櫃台邊，從懷裡掏出一件黃綢包裹的玉器，讓掌櫃的估價。掌櫃的跟他顯然熟，一見小回回連忙迎上前。掌櫃的抖開綢布，兩眼頓時放光，興奮地在心中想，這可是件寶貝兒，沒等他估價，榮慶突然衝上前，伸手抓住那隻綠玉做成的如意，另一隻手揪住小回回衣領，不由分說將他從櫃台邊拖。
榮慶出現得太突然，小回回還沒完全回過神，已經被他帶到街邊一處靜僻的胡同裡。
王回回！這叫怎麼說？榮慶鬆開他衣領，一手叉著腰，另一隻手舉著那隻玉如意，原來成天進進出出，幹的是這玩意兒！
榮侍衛！me.小回回嚇得滿臉灰白，渾身發抖，半天說不出一句完整的話。其實他進進出出，都是李總管藉著讓他回京城皇宮中打探消息的由頭，實際上是替李總管幹他的私事。像今兒，就是讓他上當鋪賣掉這件宮中的寶貝，然後將銀票存到李蓮英乾兒子家。
你當我認不出，這是宮中的如意。explain!從哪兒偷來的？小回回站在那兒，一汪苦水嚥不下肚子裡。你想想，他一個未成年小太監，要地位沒地位，要膽子沒膽子，他憑什麼敢偷這麼貴重的玩意兒。就是敢，他也偷不到啊。可當著這位軍爺的面讓人抓到了，人贓俱在，想賴是賴不了的。他敢說出這是李總管交辦的事？殺了他也沒這個膽子，何況李總管早就警告過他，要他千萬小心，萬一出了事，那可是爹死娘嫁人，各管各的，誰也顧不上誰啊。這話說得再透也不過，那就是說一旦出了事，再大的罪也得由他一個人頂！耳邊響起李總管說這話兒時那惡狠狠的聲音，小回回雙膝一軟，不由自主地當街給榮慶跪下，沒張口說話，眼圈先紅了。
榮大人！求您饒了奴才
你只要說出這個如意的來歷，我就饒了你。榮慶見他眼汪汪，心裡頓時軟下來。心中暗自思忖，只要如意不是他偷的，交出後面的主就成了。更重要的是將他與那位宮女之間的事問得清清楚楚。這才是皇上交辦的，因此重點仍在後一件事情上。但要撬開他的嘴，必須抓住他賣如意這事兒不放。他見小回回跪在地下，滿臉是汗，咬著一雙薄嘴唇不吭聲，看來不認真嚇唬他一下，是問不出結果的。
你到底說不說？榮慶拔出腰刀，在他眼前一晃。
到底是孩子，他這邊一亮出刀，那邊已經哭開了。他磕磕巴巴說了半天，榮慶終於聽出如意是李蓮英的。
榮大人！我求求您，要是這事兒告到上頭，傷不了總管的一根毛，可我就死定了
看得出他說的是實話。正如他自己所說，他就是想偷，這種宮中稀罕的寶貝想偷也偷不到。而且這事兒要是鬧上去，傷不著李總管，而他肯定賠上一條小命，榮慶收起腰刀，帶他到了一家茶館，一邊喝茶一邊問起有關他與那位宮女之間的事。
我問你一件事，只要你跟我說實話，如意的事我就不捅上去。
只要我知道，問什麼都行。
Well.我問你，你在宮中與那位宮女怎麼回事？她是不是你相好？
您這是哪兒的話！我一個太監，武功全廢了，還能拈花惹草？
你當我不知道！榮慶故意詐他：那天你丟了個手帕包，一看就知道是宮女用的玩意兒。你說，那天你是不是替她出宮辦事的？
yes.說到替宮女辦事，小回回非常坦然，一點也不像剛才為如意的事嚇得面如死灰。他不假思索地說了那天替吟兒送相片的事，歸了包堆就一回，也算不了什麼事，給她們家送了回洋畫片。
洋畫片？畫的什麼呀？
就是她本人的小照，那天包在手帕裡丟在地下，還是您幫著撿起的。那可是她們宮中主子給照的呢！小回回認真地向他介紹著照相機拍人像的道理，越說越說不清楚，最後連他自己也糊塗了。
蒙我吧，這活脫脫的人能自個兒跑到紙片片上去？I do not believe.任小回回怎麼解釋，榮慶還是不明白活生生的人怎麼能印在一張紙片片上，你拿出來給我看看。
她們家離這兒不算太遠。你要是不信，我就領你去她們家看看！小回回說宮女托他帶的相片已經送到她家裡人手上，並表示現在就可以領他去那兒當面對質，要有半句假話，任他怎麼處置都行。
她在哪個宮的？Rong Qing asked.
景仁宮。在珍主子身邊當差。
聽說這位宮女是珍主子身邊的，榮慶頓時明白了皇上為什麼這麼吃緊，原來萬歲爺懷疑這位宮女和儲秀宮的小太監暗通關節，這才命令他私下查一查。這樣看來，摸清楚他和那位宮女間的關係，才能回去向皇上覆命，想到這，他當即提出跟小回回去那位宮女家核實他說的話。
小回回領著榮慶出了茶樓，由小胡同地路向北走去：，到了北城根豁口附近，那兒有一大片灰牆灰瓦的四合院人家，再往北是一大片梨樹林子。榮慶越走越覺得不對勁兒，心想吟兒家不就住在這一帶，當他跟著小回回走進梨花胡間，果然見小回回將他帶到了吟兒家的大門口。他心裡說不出的慌亂，將小回回拉到一邊，低聲問道：
how?你說的宮女是不是叫吟兒？
Yes.do you know her小回回驚訝地瞪著一雙大眼。
我我跟他們家是遠房親戚。榮慶心裡有說不出的激動，支支吾吾地扯著小回回衣袖，低聲對他說，行了，咱們不進去，我信你了。說著轉身要走。
榮侍衛！小回回拉住他衣袖，別呀，咱們落個小蔥拌豆腐，一清二白吧！既然她跟你是親戚，那更好說了。
小回回走到黑漆斑駁的大門前，抓起門上的銅環要敲門，榮慶搶上前將小回回雙手抱起，轉身就跑。小回回邊叫邊掙扎，讓他放他下地。榮慶不理他，抱著他跑了老遠，這才氣喘喘地將小回回放下地。
榮侍衛！您這是怎麼回事兒。我說了您不信，硬要我當面對質，真到了那家人門口，你又不讓我敲門。小回回不滿地嘟著嘴抱怨著，反過來問起榮慶，誰讓您打聽這事的？
沒誰。
不能吧。
Without further ado.榮慶打斷對方，心裡緊張地思忖著，腦殼裡冒出一連串疑問，難道皇上和小回回說的宮女真的是吟兒。她不是儲秀宮老佛爺身邊的人，怎麼又成了景仁宮珍主子身邊的人，我問你，吟兒先前不是在儲秀宮，怎麼又到了景仁宮？
那是哪年的黃曆了！她一個多月前就調到景仁宮，是老佛爺賞給珍主子的。
小回回將吟兒從儲秀宮調出去的情況前後說了一遍。榮慶聽後終於明白，吟兒原先和小回回在一起，都是老佛爺身邊當差的，因此他倆早就認識，後來分開了，偶爾在宮中見了面，自然免不了說話，甚至託他辦事。由此看來，託小回回辦事的宮女肯定是吟兒已經無可置疑，皇上要查的宮女也就是吟兒了。
一想到吟兒就在珍主子身邊當差，珍主子是皇上最親近的人，而他又是皇上的侍衛，他胸口裡那活蹦亂跳的玩意兒頓時揪緊了，塞在肺葉和肋骨之間，堵得他心裡發慌。他長長喘了口氣，認真考慮著這件事，覺得小回回不會騙他的，既然是珍主子替吟兒拍的相片，並讓她送到宮外給家裡人看，這事兒就簡單得多，至少這裡頭不存在什麼陰謀，因此向皇上覆命也就有了結果。這頭沒事了，另一頭又冒出個主意：既然吟兒能託小回回捎相片，難道我就不能託小回回捎個信給吟兒？
自他們家退了吟兒這門親事，他一直想捎個口信給吟兒本人，苦於他們家為了退婚的事惱恨他，怎麼也不肯替他傳話。另一方面，退婚的事雖是他父母幹的，但自己是當事人，因此他有負於她，僅僅讓別人傳話還不夠，他應該有所表示，以證明自己的歉意和等她的決心。在宮中太監可以和宮女說話，侍衛卻不可以，想來想去，只有請小回回替他帶一封信捎給吟兒。他與小回回離開了吟兒家，來到一座土地廟前，突然冒出一句沒頭沒尾的話。
小回哥，請你幫我捎封信，行不行？
捎給誰呀？小回回問。
給吟兒。
您說給吟姑娘？
yes.榮慶漲紅了臉，點點頭。
這怕不行。小回回連忙搖頭說，宮裡宮外密不通風，捎進一個屁去就算暗通關節，要是捎封信，罪名就更大了。榮軍爺，咱倆前世無冤今世無仇的，你可別把我往井裡推呀！
我還沒告你進當鋪賣如意的事，你敢說不行？榮慶威脅對方說，你能幫吟兒捎東西到宮外，就不能替我帶個信給她？
那不一樣那是洋畫片，上頭沒字。您不是不知道，宮中凡傳帶有字的條兒，可是了不得的大罪啊！小回回為難地說。
Well.榮慶急了，拔刀壓指，準備切下一截手指頭。
What are you doing?小回回急忙拉住他。別拉我。你不肯捎信，我讓你帶我一個手指頭送去給她！別別別，您少個手指頭還怎麼拿槍呀？那不連飯碗兒都砸了！小回回勸著對方，不讓他下刀。
I can't manage that much anymore!榮慶邊說邊舉刀切手指。
好了好了，我的爺爺！我給您捎。小回回見他動了真格，慌忙叫住他。心想自己是儲秀宮裡的人，年歲又小，其他人也不怎麼提防他，說到底這也不是什麼太難的事兒。不過先說好了，就這一回，再沒下回了。
That's natural.榮慶高興地間，您真的答應？
說出的話兒潑出的水，說了自然認賬。
不反悔？
不反悔！
您跟吟姑娘真的是親戚？
不騙你，不信你當面問她。榮慶心裡激動得不行，臉上卻裝出輕鬆的樣子。
那好，您寫好了交給我。小回回，好兄弟！榮慶兩條腿，上跪君王，下跪父母，還沒給平輩兒的跪過，您是頭一個！他心頭一熱，沒等話說完，當著小回回的面就地跪下。
您看您，這叫哪兒對哪兒呀！小回回伸手拉不動對方，心裡一急，慌忙也跟著跪下，面頂面地對榮慶說：榮侍衛，再說就遠了，您快起來吧。
下午，珍主子去了養心殿。吟兒例假來了，沒跟著過去，在後院下房的迴廊下洗衣服。
日頭曬得院子裡的青磚地上冒出一片片熱氣，是人都躲進了屋裡。遠處的知了叫個不停，一聽這聲音吟兒就犯睏，手在搓衣板上來回搓，眼皮兒忍不住打架。突然她聽見不遠處有動靜。撐開眼皮子一看，只見通往東二街的側門邊進來個人，直向她招手。吟兒從眼角的餘光裡瞅見來人是小回回，假裝沒看見，仍然低著頭繼續洗衣服。
吟兒姐姐，有事兒。小回回見四下沒人，壯著膽子走過來。
you go!吟兒抬起頭。想起那晚上珍主子審問自己的情況，心裡說不出的害怕，一個勁兒地催他離開。
不騙你，真有事兒嘛。小回回低聲說。吟兒無奈地揮揮手，示意他先走，自己