The 3rd Tale of the Big Wife and the Little Wife That Must Be Told

Wang remained silent, secretly contemplating in her heart. Liu Kun's family, noticing Wang's expression, hesitated to speak: "There are just some words that I am unsure whether I should say or not. If I speak, I fear that the madam will blame me for being impolite; if I do not speak, I feel guilty for not fulfilling the old lady's instructions, leaving me uneasy."

What is being rectified? However, the thunder is loud but the rain is light; that wretched maid is his beloved, how could he bear to part with her

In both the Ming and Qing dynasties, there was a distinction between noble concubines and lowly concubines. Noble concubines typically included those who came with a bride's dowry (the most esteemed, though this practice was largely out of fashion during the Ming and Qing), freeborn women who were formally taken into the household (the second most esteemed), and concubines who had already borne children (the third most esteemed). Sometimes, it also included women gifted by elders or superiors (relatively less esteemed). Such concubines generally could not be bought or sold at will, nor could they be abused; at most, they could be dismissed without the need for a formal divorce document, although sometimes a separation document might be drafted. In contrast, maidservants with contracts, courtesans, or purchased concubines were considered lowly concubines, who could be bought, sold, abused, or subjected to even harsher punishments. This category also sometimes included women gifted by elders or superiors (relatively less esteemed). Such concubines generally could not be bought or sold at will, nor could they be abused; at most, they could be dismissed without the need for a formal divorce document, although sometimes a separation document might be drafted. In contrast, maidservants with contracts, courtesans, or purchased concubines were considered lowly concubines, who could be bought, sold, abused, or subjected to even harsher punishments.

Wang let out a long sigh, grasped Liu Kun's hand, and choked back tears, saying: "I usually only know how to show off and flaunt my abilities. I never expected to end up in such a situation over these past few years. In the days to come, I will need your support more than ever."

Wang sighed: "It is all my unfilial conduct; at this age, I still make my mother worry. Thanks to you, who advises me daily, I have finally managed to temper my stubbornness and reconcile with my husband. You also taught me to take a concubine for him, which has curbed Lin's arrogance. Speaking of which, that Wei concubine was also brought in by you; your judgment of character is commendable. She is beautiful yet does not cause any trouble. Since she entered the household, Lin has been much more subdued. This time, it is truly thanks to you that the wretched maid has made a mistake."

Wang pressed the armrest of the rattan chair and softly exclaimed: "Indeed, at that time I was truly bewildered, only knowing to quarrel with the master and the madam out of spite, yet I failed to grasp the crux of the matter, merely causing a useless commotion, which allowed that vile maid to profit from it. Fortunately, you have enlightened me today, and I have come to understand the reasons behind it. All that has transpired was indeed my fault."

As for Liu Kun's family, it is not yet finished: "... The sixth young lady has not been eating or speaking much these days; the madam should pay more attention. This sixth young lady is just a servant girl and will not inherit any family fortune. In the end, we can prepare a dowry for her and send her off, which will not trouble the madam at all. Besides, she can also keep the fifth young lady company, can't she?"

This is all the fortune of the madam, what does it have to do with the servant? It is only the beginning of the character for the death of Aunt Wei; there is still a stroke missing. How the master will deal with Aunt Lin remains unknown, perhaps she has been deceived, but we cannot let our guard down.

Wang was greatly intrigued and asked, "Is this true? If so, why is the master completely unresponsive"

Yao Yiyi swore to the mudslide that she had not eavesdropped intentionally; she had been awake for a long time but was too lazy to move or speak. Thus, she kept her eyes closed and continued to lie there. To her surprise, these two middle-aged women treated this place as a chat room, discussing everything from moving houses to raising daughters, and then delving into love and hate. The more they talked, the more excited they became, and the more engrossed they were in the storyline. Yao Yiyi felt increasingly embarrassed to wake up and interrupt them.

Master Wei's father and my late father-in-law were biological brothers. Master Wei and the old master are of similar age and initially studied together under the family teachings of Duke Ling. After leaving the family teachings, they both became disciples of Elder Yang. At that time, Elder Yang was still serving as a reader in the Hanlin Academy; the old master was doting on a concubine and completely disregarded the hardships faced by Master Wei and his mother. My family matriarch took great care of that old sister-in-law and her nephew, and since our master was originally of illegitimate birth, he had not lived easily before being raised by the matriarch. Thus, they shared a mutual sympathy, and the two brothers became very close. Although Master Wei has not held an official position, he manages his household well and possesses substantial wealth. Money does not hold much significance for him. Our master and my brother-in-law are both officials and will be able to look after his descendants in the future, so spending a little money on him is not a big deal.

Against the wall, there was a large square couch covered with fine silk, piled with brocade and thin satin. On it, two girls, around five years old, were sleeping soundly side by side. Two maids stood by the couch on small stools, gently fanning the girls. Upon seeing Madam Wang enter, they quickly rose to pay their respects. Madam Wang waved her hand, signaling them not to make noise and disturb the girls' afternoon nap, and walked directly to the couch to take a look. One girl was round and plump, sleeping in a charming and innocent manner, which made Madam Wang's brow relax and a smile appear in her eyes. Looking at the other girl, she was indeed beautiful, but her face was pale, clearly indicating a lack of vitality. The girl appeared frail and weak, even frowning slightly in her sleep. Madam Wang let out a gentle sigh, tucked the two girls in with a light silk blanket, and then walked over to a rattan chair to recline.

After a while, Wang nodded and slowly took a sip of tea

Liu Kun's family continued: "Lastly, and most importantly, the old woman said, 'Madam, you yourself are also lacking in strictness and courtesy, which is why you cannot speak freely in front of the master.'"

Wang nodded and said: "That girl is quite bold, daring to question Aunt Lin to her face. By standing up for her master like this, she does not disgrace Aunt Wei, who is like a sister to her; I wonder how things turned out later."

Liu Kun observed the fluctuating expressions of Wang, knowing her thoughts, and said leisurely: "Being filial to one's mother-in-law is always beneficial. The foremost advantage is the reputation of the wife. In the past, Master Wei's father also caused a stir by favoring a concubine over his wife, but Wei's old lady served her mother-in-law so well that all of Nanjing knew of her filial piety, and even Master Wei could do nothing about it."

Liu Kun's family whispered: "My husband heard from outside that Aunt Lin first drove Die'er to the estate, and then the steward Lai Fu took her away to the west courtyard. After the master was free, he questioned Die'er in detail for half an hour. After that, Die'er was decided by the old lady, and it is unknown where she was sent."

Wang gave a bitter smile; how could she not regret this matter from the beginning? She could only blame her own negligence, having never bothered to concern herself with the affairs on her mother-in-law's side

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What have I done wrong? Is it that only buying makeup for the actors for the master counts as a mistake? Wang was still filled with indignation.

Liu Kun found it difficult to respond, so he changed the subject and smiled, saying: "How is Miss Liu Six doing here with the lady? When I heard that the master personally carried her all the way from the Lotus Pond, I knew that Miss Liu Six would surely follow the lady."

Liu Kun's wife instructed two maidservants to stand guard at the door, then walked over to Mrs. Wang, found a small round stool to sit on, but was stopped by Mrs. Wang, who invited her to sit in the nearby rattan chair. After some polite refusals, Liu Kun's wife took a seat.

"Oh dear, my wife, the old lady is truly afraid of your stubborn temper, which is why she couldn't sleep all night! Please do not say such hurtful things, as it only harms both parties!" Liu Kun's family hurriedly waved their hands and urged, "By doing this, what will happen to the relationship between you and the master? What about the future of Bai Ge'er? How will we live in the days to come?"

Liu Kun's family laughed and said, "Look, Madam is speaking out of anger again. The other day at the uncle's residence, the old lady inquired in detail about several of Madam's maids and then told me that Madam has three faults, which I must relay back to her. I dare to take on this role of an informant today. I remember when Madam first got married, without a second thought, she dismissed the two concubine maids of the master, and neither the master nor the old lady said a word. During those years, Madam held all the power; not to mention that the old lady treated Madam with utmost courtesy, even the master and Madam were respectful to each other. Madam's first fault is that life has been too smooth, leading to arrogance and forgetfulness. You want to manage internal affairs and also meddle in external matters; you want to control the master's finances and personnel, making all the decisions. Your usual manner of speaking is absolute, always mentioning how the Wang family is and how the old master and uncle are, which makes the master feel uncomfortable. What man does not prefer a woman to be humble and gentle? Who does not want a tender and agreeable wife? The master is not a useless or cowardly man; outside, who does not say that our master has great prospects? Madam, you have shown the master your displeasure once or twice, and occasionally undermined his authority. How can the master be close to you, and how can he not develop feelings for someone else?"

Wang glanced at the girl on the couch and said, "This girl has lost her mother, and sooner or later she will come under my care. I know this, yet I cannot swallow this grievance. When that Lin woman gave birth to her children, why did the master not consider me as the legitimate mother? Why did he not bring the children to me to raise, claiming that the bond of blood is hard to sever, allowing Lin to raise them herself? Now that Wei has passed away, he suddenly remembers that I am the legitimate mother. I initially intended to keep him in suspense for a few days, but to my surprise, the very day the imperial decree was issued, the master stormed into my room, holding this girl fiercely, and without a word, he placed her down. I was taken aback and did not dare to say much, so I accepted this child."

Wang was displeased: "That despicable sycophant!"

In recent days, the servants in the household have been bustling about like fish crossing a river, moving swiftly through the eastern courtyard where the Wang family resides. Mrs. Wang, having shaken off years of gloom, was busily engaged and quite delighted. On this particular afternoon, after managing to organize matters to a certain extent, she summoned a few close maidservants to tally the remaining items and then entered the inner chamber to converse with Liu Kun's family.

Please provide the text you would like to have translated from Traditional Chinese to English.

"Madam, please do not say that. I sense that something is amiss this time." Liu Kun shook his head and leaned forward, "Do you still remember the butterfly in front of Concubine Wei?"

"Hmph! If the master does not deal with that wretched maid and continues to pamper and protect her as usual, then I shall lose all sense of shame and simply expose the matter. I will have the censors and officials accuse the master of favoring a concubine over his wife and disregarding human life. Let us see how he can continue to hold office!" Mrs. Wang slammed the table and snorted coldly.

Liu Kun observed Wang's expression with a cold gaze and continued, "The old lady said that since ancient times, women have always depended on their husbands after marriage. If the madam does not focus on winning the master's heart but only thinks about money and personal matters, that is putting the cart before the horse"

"Madam, you have been quite busy these past few days, both inside and outside. It seems that everything is nearly gathered. This morning, we received word from Dengzhou that the inner residence of the government office there has also been tidied up, and it is ready for you and the master to move in. I must say, although Master Wei and our master are cousins, they are even closer than ordinary brothers. I wonder how much silver Master Wei has spent; this is quite a favor indeed" Liu Kun's wife said warmly.

Yao Yiyi felt that Liu Kun's way of speaking was exceptionally artistic. If she were to summarize her advice, it would be: Madam, take a look in the mirror; we must be down-to-earth and pragmatic. Competing with Aunt Lin in terms of feminine charm and allure is essentially futile. However, do not worry; while we may not become Liu Dehua, we can certainly be Ouyang Zhenhua. Just take good care of your mother-in-law and the children, and we can leverage familial bonds and moral values, adopting a nurturing approach, which still holds a significant chance of success.

Quanzhou is located in southern Fujian, a place rich in resources and abundant in products. Sheng Hong served here as a deputy official for several years, assisting in the management of local salt, grain, river works, water conservancy, as well as the organization of military records and the pacification of the local populace, achieving notable political accomplishments. In recent years, the governor has changed three times, yet he has been promoted in rank while remaining in his original position. Sheng Hong is quite adept at socializing and has established good relations with local gentry and officials. Upon hearing that Mr. Sheng was to be promoted, everyone has been eager to host banquets in his honor these past few days. Sheng Hong found it difficult to decline these invitations and, having been engaged in social gatherings for several consecutive days, entrusted the packing and moving of the family to his wife, Mrs. Wang.

Wang felt that there was much truth in this, so he remained silent. Liu Kun's family continued: "Secondly, the master has done some things that are not in accordance with propriety. You cannot speak against him, but the old lady can certainly address it. On that day, the master wanted to elevate Lin Yiniang's shop, and if you had said something, people would have accused you of jealousy and being unable to tolerate others. However, if the old lady had been willing to say a few words back then, we would not be in this situation today"

All I could hear was Liu Kun's family saying: "... Our master is not a fool; he has navigated the officialdom smoothly and understands everything in his heart. Madam, you must not play tricks on him, as it would only lead to trouble. You are a straightforward person; how can you compare with Concubine Lin's cunning and seductive tactics? What is most important for you now is to be virtuous and obedient. You should show proper filial piety towards the old lady. I see that the master holds the old lady in great respect. Even if you cannot attend to her every morning and evening, you should still visit her from time to time to inquire about her well-being and show concern. Even if it's just for appearances, you must do it convincingly. As for the sixth daughter, you should nurture her well. The master feels quite guilty towards Concubine Wei, and the better you treat the sixth daughter, the more it will remind him of how Concubine Wei passed away, which will also make you appear virtuous and loving. Over time, the master's heart will return to you."

Approximately so, please do not delve deeply; if you must investigate, please remain calm

Liu Kun took a fan and stood beside Wang, gently fanning her. He said, "I fear that Aunt Lin's silver tongue has once again softened the master's heart. However, even if we only sell a few servants, it would still be good to diminish Aunt Lin's power. This is a perfect opportunity for the madam to take action."

Yao Yiyi tightly closed her eyes, even more unwilling to wake up. It was simply unbearable to think that a promising young person like her had fallen to such a state. Moreover, this layer of skin seemed to be quite incompatible with her, leaving her feeling unwell and even not very hungry. Yao Yiyi, who refused to accept reality, remained in a state of passive neglect.

Wang held Liu Kun's hand tightly and said softly, "What are you talking about? We grew up together, having shared the same milk, and are as close as sisters. You married a few years earlier than I did, and I should have brought your whole family along as companions. However, your in-laws are managed by my mother, which is why we have been apart for a few years. You can say whatever you wish."

Liu Kun's family felt relieved, picking up a fan beside him and slowly waving it: "The lady is straightforward by nature, how could she know the cunning tricks of those vixens? Lin Yiniang and the master secretly had an affair without her realizing it. If she had discovered it earlier, while the matter was still manageable, and had quietly reported it to the old lady, arranging for Lin Yiniang to be married off immediately, the master would have been unable to act. Yet, it was only when the situation escalated beyond control that the lady's protests became futile. This is the lady's second mistake"

Wang leaned dejectedly against the back of the chair, reminiscing about the enchanting scenes of her newlywed days, and could not help but feel a pang of sadness. Back then, who among her close friends did not envy her for marrying well? Although her husband’s family was not of high rank, they were wealthy and well-off, with a prestigious lineage. She did not have to adhere to her mother-in-law's rules, nor was she troubled by concubines. Her husband was of noble character, exceptionally talented, and had a smooth career path, making it not impossible to envision herself as a lady of honor in the future.

***

Liu Kun's family smiled and sat down in front of the Wang family: "Look at what Madam said, the old lady is most concerned about you. When you married, many capable people accompanied you here, but my father-in-law is an old man whom the old lady is accustomed to, so he stayed in the Wang residence to enjoy his old age. That year, when the old lady heard that Concubine Lin had given birth to a son, she was so anxious that she couldn't sleep all night. She summoned me overnight and carefully instructed me for half a day, then sent my husband and a few children over. What do you think the Madam is unclear about? Isn't it just that she is afraid you will be bullied in your in-laws' house and that Baige'er will be neglected? What do you think the Madam is unclear about? Isn't it just that she is afraid you will be bullied in your in-laws' house and that Baige'er will be neglected? Truly, it is pitiful how a loving mother cares for her children."

Liu Kun's family hurriedly turned aside, saying they were undeserving. The two of them were exchanging polite remarks, while one of the little girls lying on the square couch stirred slightly. Classmate Yao Yiyi relaxed her numb legs and opened her eyes a crack to glance at the little girl sleeping next to her, Sheng Rulan. She was softly snoring, indicating that she was truly asleep.

A maid must first have her face unveiled to be considered a proper concubine, and only then can she be referred to as a 'young lady.' Being elevated to the status of a secondary wife qualifies her as a concubine. Therefore, even if Xiren and Baoyu have engaged in intimate relations, without any formal procedures, it amounts to nothing. This is why Qingwen mocks her, saying, "You haven't even earned the title of a young lady yet, yet you keep saying 'we' have risen." However, even if Xiren were to be elevated to a secondary wife, before having children, she would merely be regarded as a lowly concubine. Although Aunt Zhao appears to be in a pitiful situation, she is actually a favored concubine. As for my favorite, Sister Ping'er, she remained a mere concubine until Gao E's continuation was written. Alas, it amounts to nothing, which is why Qingwen mocks her again, saying, "You haven't even earned the title of a young lady yet, yet you keep saying 'we' have risen." However, even if Xiren were to be elevated to a secondary wife, before having children, she would merely be regarded as a lowly concubine. Although Aunt Zhao appears to be in a pitiful situation, she is actually a favored concubine. As for my favorite, Sister Ping'er, she remained a mere concubine until Gao E's continuation was written. Alas.

"Madam, please have a cup of tea to calm down, and allow me to explain slowly." Liu Kun poured a cup of warm tea and handed it to Mrs. Wang, "Although the master has indeed acted inappropriately, the old lady also mentioned that you have your shortcomings."

Madam Wang was unwilling to accept this and immediately wanted to argue back, but Liu Kun gently pressed her shoulder and reassured her, "Madam, please do not be anxious; let me explain slowly. The old lady said that as a daughter-in-law, you should not set rules in front of your mother-in-law. It is not appropriate to mention the morning and evening rituals, and you only visit two or three times a month. Each time you come, you wear a cold expression and hardly say a few words. The old lady manages all her own needs, and you do not concern yourself with her affairs. This, if spoken of, would be a great act of unfiliality. Even if you have a hundred reasons with the master, this one point leaves you speechless, does it not? Regardless of how indifferent the old lady may be or how much she dislikes being disturbed, you must still fulfill your duties of respect and filial piety completely.

It is unclear when the master became increasingly indifferent towards her, no longer sharing intimate words. Meanwhile, she was preoccupied with her own ambitions, wanting to grasp everything tightly in her hands, firmly holding the Sheng residence. Just as she was at the height of her success, unexpectedly, a concubine named Lin emerged, leading her to make one misstep after another, allowing Lin to grow in power day by day.

Liu Kun's family recited a Buddhist phrase and smiled, saying: "Madam, your compassion is truly commendable; this is the rightful principle. Regardless of how many concubines the master has, you will always be the legitimate wife, and that status cannot be surpassed. Previously, Concubine Lin used her charm to deceive the master, which muddled the rules. Madam, you should focus on managing the household and educating the children. I see that the master is about to take measures against Concubine Lin this time, so you must remain steady and display the dignified demeanor of a legitimate wife, ensuring that the situation does not become chaotic."

Madam thought to herself, one must never say such things in front of the master; it is essential to express gratitude for the kindness of Lord Wei. Moreover, one should refrain from constantly mentioning how things are with Madam's family, lest one forget how Aunt Lin once stirred up trouble.

Wang immediately felt disheartened and gritted her teeth, saying: "Then what do you suggest we do? Before I got married, my mother only taught me how to manage household affairs, but never mentioned how to deal with concubines. Yet this Lin concubine is not an ordinary secondary wife; she cannot be beaten or sold, and she comes from the old lady's side. It is truly infuriating for me."

Liu Kun's family hurriedly added the final touch: "It is good that my wife has come to her senses today. Let us not discuss the matters of the past; from now on, we must plan carefully and not allow ourselves to be easily manipulated again."

Wang did not speak anymore, and this statement hit the nail on the head. In fact, there have been quite a few people in the Quanzhou area who have secretly discussed their mother-in-law and daughter-in-law relationship. Several close ladies have also spoken to her about this, advising her to show more filial piety towards her mother-in-law to avoid being criticized. At that time, she did not take it to heart. The elderly lady exempted her from the daily greetings, and she happily complied.