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

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 she 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 frustrating for me."

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

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

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.

Hmph! If the master does not deal with that wretched maid and continues to pamper and protect her as usual, then I will lose all sense of shame and simply expose the matter. I will have the censors and officials report to the master about his favoritism towards a concubine while neglecting his wife and disregarding human life. Let us see how he can continue to hold office

"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 mentioned that you also have your shortcomings."

Wang nodded and said, "That girl is quite bold, daring to confront Aunt Lin to her face. By standing up for her master like this, she does not disgrace the bond between Aunt Wei and her sisters; I wonder how things turned out later."

What mistakes have I made? Is it really considered wrong to buy a performer for the master?" Wang was still indignant

Madam, you have been quite busy these past few days, both inside and outside. It seems that everything is nearly in order. This morning, we received word from Dengzhou that the inner residence of the local government has also been tidied up, and it is ready for you and the master to move in. It must be said that 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.

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.

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 grounded and pragmatic. Comparing your feminine charm and allure with Lin Yiniang is essentially futile. However, do not worry; if you cannot become Andy Lau, you can still be Ouyang Zhenhua. Just take good care of your mother-in-law and the children. We can play the family card and the virtue card, adopting a nurturing approach, which still has a good chance of success." You comparing your feminine charm and allure with Lin Yiniang is essentially futile. However, do not worry; if you cannot become Andy Lau, you can still be Ouyang Zhenhua. Just take good care of your mother-in-law and the children. We can play the family card and the virtue card, adopting a nurturing approach, which still has a good chance of success.

Liu Kun's family hurriedly added the final touch: "It is good that my wife has come to her senses today. As for the matters from before, we shall not discuss them at all. Moving forward, we must plan carefully and not allow ourselves to be easily deceived or manipulated."

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

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

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 been intimate, without any formal procedures, it means 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 become intimate." However, even if Xiren were to be elevated to a secondary wife, before having children, she would still 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 merely a concubine until Gao E's continuation was written. Alas, it means nothing.

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. I merely caused a useless commotion, inadvertently benefiting that vile maid who profited from it. Fortunately, you have enlightened me today, allowing me to understand the reasons behind it. All that has transpired in the past was indeed my fault"

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, making Yao Yiyi feel even more embarrassed to wake up.

Liu Kun took a fan and stood beside Wang, gently fanning her, saying: "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 mistress to take action."

Liu Kun's family continued: "Finally, 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 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 resentment. When that Lin woman gave birth to her children, why didn’t the master think of me as the legitimate mother? Why didn’t he bring the children to me to raise? He spoke of the bonds of blood and kinship, allowing Lin to raise them herself. Now that Wei has passed away, he suddenly remembers I am the legitimate mother. I initially intended to make him wait a few days, but unexpectedly, the very day the imperial decree was issued, the master stormed into my room, holding this girl, and without a word, he placed her down. I was taken aback and dared not say much, so I accepted this child.

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"

It is unclear when it began, but the master and she have grown increasingly distant, no longer sharing intimate words. Meanwhile, she is 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 gain power day by day.

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 greet her. 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.

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

Wang felt that this made a great deal of sense, so he fell silent. Liu Kun 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 voice her opinions. On that day, when the master wanted to elevate Lin Yiniang's status and promote the Zhuangzi shop, 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."

Wang leaned wearily against the back of the chair, reminiscing about the enchanting scenes of her newlywed days, and couldn't help but feel a pang of sadness. Back then, who among her close friends did not envy her good fortune in marriage? Although her husband's family was not of high rank, they were wealthy and well-off, with a noble lineage. She had no need to adhere to her mother-in-law's rules, nor was she troubled by concubines. Her husband was of admirable 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 was not easy to converse with, so he changed the subject and smiled, saying: "How is Miss Liu Six doing with you, Madam? Hearing that the master personally carried her all the way from the Lotus Pond that day, I knew that Miss Liu Six would surely be following you."

Wang remained silent, secretly contemplating. 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 Madam will blame me for my lack of decorum; if I do not speak, I feel guilty for not fulfilling the old lady's instructions, leaving me uneasy."

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 managed to temper my stubbornness and reconcile with my husband. You also taught me to take a concubine for my husband, 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 made a mistake."

Liu Kun smiled as he sat down in front of Wang, saying: "Look at what Madam said, the old lady cares most for you. When you got married, many capable people accompanied you here, but my father-in-law is an elderly man whom the old lady is accustomed to, so he stayed in the Wang residence to enjoy his old age. The year 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 meticulously instructed me for half a day, then sent my wife and me along with a few children here. What do you think was the reason, Madam? Was it not out of concern that you might be bullied in your in-laws' home, and that Baige'er might be neglected? What do you think was the reason, Madam? Was it not out of concern that you might be bullied in your in-laws' home, and that Baige'er might be neglected? Truly, it is pitiful how a loving mother cares for her children."

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

Liu Kun's household sent two maidservants out to watch the door, while she herself walked over to Wang's side, found a small round stool to sit on, but was stopped by Wang, who invited her to sit in the nearby rattan chair. After some polite refusals, Liu Kun's household took a seat.

Liu Kun's family remarked: "Look, Madam is speaking in anger again. The other day at the uncle's residence, the old lady carefully inquired about several of the maids by Madam's side, and then told me that Madam has three faults. I dare to take the liberty to relay this to Madam today, acting as this ear-witness. In the early days of Madam's marriage, without a second thought, she dismissed the two concubine maids of the master. The master and the old lady did not utter a word of protest. During those years, Madam held absolute power; not only did the old lady treat Madam with utmost courtesy, but the master and Madam also respected 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 decisions entirely. Your usual manner of speaking and acting is one of absolute authority, constantly mentioning how the Wang family and the old master and uncle are doing. How can this make the master feel comfortable? What man does not prefer a woman to be humble and gentle? Who does not desire a tender and agreeable wife? The master is not an incompetent or weak 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 others?"

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 assets. In the end, we can prepare a dowry for her and send her off, which won't affect the madam in any way. Besides, she can also keep the fifth young lady company, can't she?"

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

Wang was unwilling to accept this and immediately wanted to argue back, but Liu Kun gently pressed down on her shoulder and reassured her, saying, "Madam, do not be anxious; let me explain slowly. The old lady says that as a daughter-in-law, you not only fail to establish rules in front of your mother-in-law, but you also neglect the morning and evening rituals, visiting only two or three times a month. Even when you do visit, you wear a cold expression and hardly say a few words. Your mother-in-law manages all her own needs without your assistance, which is a significant act of unfilial conduct. Even if you have a hundred reasons with Master Tu Shu, this alone leaves you without a defense, does it not? Regardless of how indifferent the old lady may be or her dislike for being disturbed, you must still fulfill your duties of respect and filial piety completely.

Madam thought to herself, in front of the master, she must never say such things; she must express her gratitude for Master Wei's kindness. Moreover, she should refrain from constantly mentioning how things were with her maternal family, and she must not forget how Aunt Lin had instigated matters in the past. Liu Kun's household noticed that Wang's old habits had resurfaced and quickly reminded her.

"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 felt relieved and picked up a fan nearby, slowly waving it: "The lady is straightforward by nature and is unaware of the cunning tricks of those vixens. She was oblivious to the secret affair between Concubine Lin and the master. If she had discovered it earlier, while the matter was still manageable, she could have discreetly reported it to the old lady and arranged for Concubine Lin to be married off immediately. The master would have been unable to act against it. Instead, she waited until the situation escalated beyond control, and by then, no amount of fussing would make a difference. This is the lady's second mistake."

Quanzhou is located in southern Fujian, a place rich in resources and abundant in goods. 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 over the past few days. Sheng Hong found it difficult to decline these invitations and has been busy with social engagements, entrusting the packing and moving of the family to his wife, Mrs. Wang.

Yao Yiyi tightly closed her eyes, even more unwilling to wake up. It was simply unbearable for her, a promising young person, to have fallen to such a state. Moreover, this skin seemed to be quite incompatible with her, leaving her in a constant state of illness, and she hardly felt hungry. Yao Yiyi, who refused to accept reality, remained in a state of passive neglect.

The author has something to say

(About this much, please do not delve too deeply; if you must, please remain calm)

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

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, such as nieces and nephews (the most esteemed, though this practice was largely obsolete in 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). Occasionally, 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 beaten; 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, beaten, or subjected to even harsher punishments.

Wang was displeased: "That despicable sycophant!"

All I can hear is Liu Kun's family saying: "... Our master is not a fool; he navigates the officialdom smoothly and understands everything in his heart. Madam, you must not play tricks on him, as it would only backfire. You are a straightforward person; how can you compare with Concubine Lin's cunning and manipulative ways? What is most important for you now is to be virtuous and compliant. 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 every few days 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."

"Lord Wei's father and my late father-in-law were biological brothers. Lord Wei and my husband are of similar age and initially studied together under the family teachings of Duke Ling. After leaving the family studies, they both became disciples of Elder Yang. Oh, at that time, Elder Yang was still serving as a reader in the Hanlin Academy; the elder lady was then favoring a concubine and completely disregarded the hardships faced by Lady Wei and her son. My elderly lady took great care of that old sister-in-law and her nephew, and since our lord was originally born of a concubine and had not had an easy life before being raised by the elderly lady, it is no wonder that he and Lord Wei found solace in each other’s shared misfortunes, making them very close brothers. Although Lord Wei has not held an official position, he manages his household well and possesses substantial wealth. Money does not hold much significance for him, and both my husband and my brother-in-law hold official positions, which will also benefit his descendants in the future. Spending a little money on him is not a big deal." Lady Wang appeared quite pleased.

Liu Kun observed the fluctuating expressions of Wang, understanding her thoughts, and said leisurely: "Being filial to one's mother-in-law always brings benefits, the foremost being the reputation of the lady. Initially, the father of Lord Wei also caused a stir with his favoritism towards a concubine over his wife, yet Lady Wei managed to serve her mother-in-law in such a way that all of Nanjing knew of her filial piety, and thus Lord Wei could do nothing about it."

Liu Kun's family recited a Buddhist phrase and smiled, saying: "Madam, your compassion is truly commendable; this is the essence of reason. Regardless of how many concubines the master has, you will always be the legitimate wife, and that status cannot be surpassed. Previously, it was Lin the concubine who, with her charm, deceived the master, thus muddling the rules. You should focus on managing the household and educating the children. I see that the master is about to take measures against Lin the concubine this time. You must remain steady and display the dignified demeanor of a legitimate wife, and do not let the situation become chaotic."

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 before me, 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 whispered, "My husband heard from outside that Aunt Lin first chased 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, it was up to the old lady to decide what to do with her, and we do not know where she was sent."