第二回

第二回 王教头私走延安府 九纹龙大闹史家村

诗曰：

千古幽扃一旦开，天罡地煞出泉台。

自来无事多生事，本为禳灾却惹灾。

社稷从今云扰扰，兵戈到处闹垓垓。

高俅奸佞虽堪恨，洪信从今酿祸胎。

话说当时住持真人对洪太尉说道：“太尉不知，此殿中当初是祖老天师洞玄真人传下法符，嘱付道：‘此殿内镇锁着三十六员天罡星，七十二座地煞星，共是一百单八个魔君在里面。上立石碑，凿着龙章凤篆天符，镇住在此。若还放他出世，必恼下方生灵。’如今太尉放他走了，怎生是好！他日必为后患。”洪太尉听罢，浑身冷汗，捉颤不住，急急收拾行李，引了从人，下山回京。真人并道众送官已罢，自回宫内修整殿宇，竖立石碑，不在话下。

再说洪太尉在路上分付从人，教把走妖魔一节休说与外人知道，恐天子知而见责。于路无话，星夜回至京师。进得汴梁城，闻人所说：天师在东京禁院做了七昼夜好事，普施符箓，禳救灾病，瘟疫尽消，军民安泰。天师辞朝，乘鹤驾云，自回龙虎山去了。洪太尉次日早朝，见了天子，奏说：“天师乘鹤驾云，先到京师。臣等驿站而来，才得到此。”仁宗准奏，赏赐洪信，复还旧职，亦不在话下。

后来仁宗天子在位共四十二年晏驾，无有太子，传位濮安懿王允让之子，太祖皇帝的孙，立帝号曰英宗。在位四年，传位与太子神宗天子。在位一十八年，传位与太子哲宗皇帝登基。那时天下尽皆太平，四方无事。

且说东京开封府汴梁宣武军，一个浮浪破落户子弟，姓高，排行第二，自小不成家业，只好刺枪使棒，最是踢得好脚气毬[1]。京师人口顺，不叫高二，却都叫他做高毬。后来发迹，便将气毬那字去了毛傍，添作立人，便改作姓高名俅。这人吹弹歌舞，刺枪使棒，相扑顽耍，颇能诗书词赋；若论仁义礼智，信行忠良，却是不会，只在东京城里城外帮闲。因帮了一个生铁王员外儿子使钱，每日三瓦两舍[2]，风花雪月，被他父亲开封府里告了一纸文状。府尹把高俅断了四十脊杖，迭配[3]出界发放。东京城里人民，不许容他在家宿食。高俅无计奈何，只得来淮西临淮州投奔一个开赌坊的闲汉柳大郎，名唤柳世权。他平生专好惜客养闲人，招纳四方干隔涝[4]汉子。高俅投托得柳大郎家，一住三年。

后来哲宗天子因拜南郊，感得风调雨顺，放宽恩大赦天下。那高俅在临淮州，因得了赦宥罪犯，思乡要回东京。这柳世权却和东京城里金梁桥下开生药铺的董将士[5]是亲戚，写了一封书札，收拾些人事盘缠，赍发高俅回东京，投奔董将士家过活。

当时高俅辞了柳大郎，背上包裹，离了临淮州，迤逦回到东京，竟来金梁桥下董生药家，下了这封书。董将士一见高俅，看了柳世权来书，自肚里寻思道：“这高俅，我家如何安着得他！若是个志诚老实的人，可以容他在家出入，也教孩儿们学些好。他却是个帮闲的破落户，没信行的人，亦且当初有过犯来，被开封府断配出境的人。倘或留住在家中，倒惹得孩儿们不学好了；待不收留他，又撇不过柳大郎面皮。”当时只得权且欢天喜地，相留在家宿歇，每日酒食管待。住了十数日，董将士思量出一个缘由，将出一套衣服，写了一封书简，对高俅说道：“小人家下萤火之光，照人不亮，恐后误了足下。我转荐足下与小苏学士处，久后也得个出身。足下意内如何？”高俅大喜，谢了董将士。董将士使个人将着书简，引领高俅竟到学士府内。门吏转报小苏学士，出来见了高俅，看罢来书，知道高俅原是帮闲浮浪的人，心下想道：“我这里如何安着得他！不如做个人情，荐他去驸马王晋卿府里，做个亲随。人都唤他做‘小王都太尉’，便喜欢这样的人。”当时回了董将士书札，留高俅在府里住了一夜。次日，写了一封书呈，使个干人[6]，送高俅去那小王都太尉处。

这太尉乃是哲宗皇帝妹夫，神宗皇帝的驸马。他喜爱风流人物，正用这样的人。一见小苏学士差人驰书送这高俅来，拜见了，便喜。随即写回书，收留高俅在府内做个亲随。自此高俅遭际在王都尉府中，出入如同家人一般。自古道：日远日疏，日亲日近。忽一日，小王都太尉庆诞生辰，分付府中安排筵宴，专请小舅端王。这端王乃是神宗天子第十一子，哲宗皇帝御弟，见[7]掌东驾，排号九大王，是个聪明俊俏人物。这浮浪子弟门风，帮闲之事，无一般不晓，无一般不会，更无般不爱。更兼琴棋书画，儒释道教，无所不通；踢球打弹，品竹调丝，吹弹歌舞，自不必说。当日王都尉府中准备筵宴，水陆俱备。但见：

香焚宝鼎，花插金瓶。仙音院竞奏新声，教坊司频逞妙艺。水晶壶内，尽都是紫府琼浆；琥珀杯中，满泛着瑶池玉液。玳瑁盘堆仙桃异果，玻璃碗供熊掌驼蹄。鳞鳞脍切银丝，细细茶烹玉蕊。红裙舞女，尽随着象板鸾箫；翠袖歌姬，簇捧定龙笙凤管。两行珠翠立阶前，一派笙歌临座上。

且说这端王来王都尉府中赴宴，都尉设席，请端王居中坐定，太尉对席相陪。酒进数杯，食供两套，那端王起身净手，偶来书院里少歇，猛见书案上一对儿羊脂玉碾成的镇纸狮子，极是做得好，细巧玲珑。端王拿起狮子，不落手看了一回，道：“好！”王都尉见端王心爱，便说道：“再有一个玉龙笔架，也是这个匠人一手做的，却不在手头，明日取来，一并相送。”端王大喜道：“深谢厚意。想那笔架必是更妙。”王都尉道：“明日取出来，送至宫中便见。”端王又谢了。两个依旧入席饮宴，至暮尽醉方散。端王相别回宫去了。

次日，小王都太尉取出玉龙笔架和两个镇纸玉狮子，着一个小金盒子盛了，用黄罗包袱包了，写了一封书呈，却使高俅送去。高俅领了王都尉钧旨，将着两般玉玩器，怀中揣了书呈，径投端王宫中来。把门官吏转报与院公。没多时，院公出来问：“你是那个府里来的人？”高俅施礼罢，答道：“小人是王驸马府中，特送玉玩器来进大王。”院公道：“殿下在庭心里和小黄门踢气球，你自过去。”高俅道：“相烦引进。”院公引到庭前。高俅看时，见端王头戴软纱唐巾，身穿紫绣龙袍，腰系文武双穗绦，把绣龙袍前襟拽扎起，揣在绦儿边，足穿一双嵌金线飞凤靴，三五个小黄门，相伴着蹴气球。高俅不敢过去冲撞，立在从人背后伺候。也是高俅合当发迹，时运到来，那个气球腾地起来，端王接个不着，向人丛里直滚到高俅身边。那高俅见气球来，也是一时的胆量，使个鸳鸯拐，踢还端王。端王见了大喜，便问道：“你是甚人？”高俅向前跪下道：“小的是王都尉亲随，受东人使令，赍送两般玉玩器来进献大王。有书呈在此拜上。”端王听罢，笑道：“姐夫直如此挂心。”高俅取出书呈进上。端王开盒子看了玩器，都递与堂候官收了去。

那端王且不理玉玩器下落，却先问高俅道：“你原来会踢气球。你唤做甚么？”高俅叉手[8]跪复道：“小的叫做高俅，胡踢得几脚。”端王道：“好！你便下场来踢一回耍。”高俅拜道：“小的是何等样人，敢与恩王下脚。”端王道：“这是‘齐云社’[9]，名为‘天下圆’，但踢何伤。”高俅再拜道：“怎敢。”三回五次告辞。端王定要他踢，高俅只得叩头谢罪，解膝下场。才踢几脚，端王喝采。高俅只得把平生本事都使出来，奉承端王。那身分模样，这气球一似鳔胶粘在身上的。端王大喜，那里肯放高俅回府去，就留在宫中过了一夜。次日，排个筵会，专请王都尉宫中赴宴。

却说王都尉当日晚不见高俅回来，正疑思间，只见次日门子报道：“九大王差人来传令旨，请太尉到宫中赴宴。”王都尉出来见了干人，看了令旨，随即上马来到九大王府前，下马入宫来，见了端王。端王大喜，称谢两般玉玩器。入席饮宴间，端王说道：“这高俅踢得两脚好气球，孤欲索此人做亲随，如何？”王都尉答道：“殿下既用此人，就留在宫中伏侍殿下。”端王欢喜，执杯相谢。二人又闲话一回，至晚席散，王都尉自回驸马府去，不在话下。

且说端王自从索得高俅做伴之后，就留在宫中宿食。高俅自此遭际端王，每日跟着，寸步不离。却在宫中未及两个月，哲宗皇帝晏驾，无有太子。文武百官商议，册立端王为天子，立帝号曰徽宗，便是玉清教主微妙道君皇帝[10]。登基之后，一向无事。忽一日，与高俅道：“朕欲要抬举你，但有边功，方可升迁。先教枢密院与你入名，只是做随驾迁转的人。”后来没半年之间，直抬举高俅做到殿帅府太尉职事。

且说高俅得做了殿帅府太尉，选拣吉日良辰，去殿帅府里到任。所有一应合属公吏衙将，都军禁军，马步人等，尽来参拜，各呈手本[11]，开报花名。高殿帅一一点过，于内只欠一名八十万禁军教头王进，半月之前，已有病状在官，患病未痊，不曾入衙门管事。高殿帅大怒，喝道：“胡说！既有手本呈来，却不是那厮[12]抗拒官府，搪塞下官。此人即系推病在家，快与我拿来！”随即差人到王进家来，捉拿王进。

且说这王进却无妻子，止有一个老母，年已六旬之上。牌头与教头王进说道：“如今高殿帅新来上任，点你不着。军正司禀说染患在家，见有病患状在官。高殿帅焦躁，那里肯信，定要拿你，只道是教头诈病在家，教头只得去走一遭。若还不去，定连累众人，小人也有罪犯。”王进听罢，只得捱着病来，进得殿帅府前，参见太尉，拜了四拜，躬身唱个喏[13]，起来立在一边。高俅道：“你那厮便是都军教头王升的儿子？”王进禀道：“小人便是。”高俅喝道：“这厮！你爷是街市上使花棒卖药的，你省的甚么武艺！前官没眼，参你做个教头，如何敢小觑我，不伏俺点视！你托谁的势要，推病在家安闲快乐！”王进告道：“小人怎敢！其实患病未痊。”高太尉骂道：“贼配军！你既害病，如何来得？”王进又告道：“太尉呼唤，安敢不来。”高殿帅大怒，喝令左右，教拿下王进，“加力与我打这厮！”众多牙将都是和王进好的，只得与军正司同告道：“今日是太尉上任好日头，权免此人这一次。”高太尉喝道：“你这贼配军，且看众将之面，饶恕你今日之犯，明日却和你理会[14]！”

王进谢罪罢，起来抬头看了，认得是高俅。出得衙门，叹口气道：“俺的性命今番难保了！俺道是甚么高殿帅，却原来正是东京帮闲的圆社[15]高二。比先时曾学使棒，被我父亲一棒打翻，三四个月将息不起，有此之仇。他今日发迹，得做殿帅府太尉，正待要报仇，我不想正属他管。自古道：不怕官，只怕管。俺如何与他争得！怎生奈何[16]是好？”回到家中，闷闷不已。对娘说知此事，母子二人抱头而哭。娘道：“我儿，三十六着，走为上着。只恐没处走。”王进道：“母亲说得是。儿子寻思，也是这般计较。只有延安府老种经略相公镇守边庭[17]，他手下军官，多有曾到京师，爱儿子使枪棒的极多，何不逃去投奔他们？那里是用人去处，足可安身立命。”娘儿两个商议定了。其母又道：“我儿，和你要私走，只恐门前两个牌军，是殿帅府拨来伏侍你的，他若得知，须走不脱。”王进道：“不妨。母亲放心，儿子自有道理措置他。”

当下日晚未昏，王进先叫张牌入来，分付道：“你先吃了些晚饭，我使你一处去干事。”张牌道：“教头使小人那里去？”王进道：“我因前日病患，许下酸枣门外岳庙里香愿，明日早要去烧炷头香。你可今晚先去，分付庙祝，教他来日早开些庙门，等我来烧炷头香，就要三牲献刘李王。你就庙里歇了等我。”张牌答应，先吃了晚饭，叫了安置[18]，望庙中去了。当夜，子母二人收拾了行李衣服，细软银两，做一担儿打挟了；又装两个料袋袱驼[19]，拴在马上。等到五更天色未明，王进叫起李牌，分付道：“你与我将这些银两去岳庙里，和张牌买个三牲煮熟，在那里等候。我买些纸烛，随后便来。”李牌将银子望庙中去了。王进自去备了马，牵出后槽，将料袋袱驼搭上，把索子拴缚牢了，牵在后门外，扶娘上了马。家中粗重都弃了，锁上前后门，挑了担儿，跟在马后，趁五更天色未明，乘势出了西华门，取路望延安府来。

且说两个牌军买了福物[20]煮熟，在庙等到巳牌，也不见来。李牌心焦，走回到家中寻时，见锁了门，两头无路，寻了半日，并无有人曾见。看看待晚，岳庙里张牌疑忌，一直奔回家来，又和李牌寻了一黄昏。看看黑了，两个见他当夜不归，又不见了他老娘。次日，两个牌军又去他亲戚之家访问，亦无寻处。两个恐怕连累，只得去殿帅府首告：“王教头弃家在逃，子母不知去向。”高太尉见告了，大怒道：“贼配军在逃，看那厮待走那里去！”随即押下文书，行开诸州各府，捉拿逃军王进。二人首告，免其罪责，不在话下。

且说王教头母子二人，自离了东京，在路免不得饥餐渴饮，夜住晓行，在路上一月有馀。忽一日，天色将晚，王进挑着担儿跟在娘的马后，口里与母亲说道：“天可怜见，惭愧了我子母两个，脱了这天罗地网之厄。此去延安府不远了，高太尉便要差人拿我也拿不着了。”子母两个欢喜，在路上不觉错过了宿头。走了这一晚，不遇着一处村坊，那里去投宿是好。正没理会处，只见远远地林子里闪出一道灯光来。王进看了道：“好了！遮莫[21]去那里陪个小心，借宿一宵，明日早行。”当时转入林子里来看时，却是一所大庄院，一周遭都是土墙，墙外却有二三百株大柳树。看那庄院，但见：

前通官道，后靠溪冈。一周遭杨柳绿阴浓，四下里乔松青似染。草堂高起，尽按五运山庄；亭馆低轩，直造倚山临水。转屋角牛羊满地，打麦场鹅鸭成群。田园广野，负佣庄客有千人；家眷轩昂，女使儿童难计数。正是：家有馀粮鸡犬饱，户多书籍子孙贤。

当时王教头来到庄前，敲门多时，只见一个庄客出来。王进放下担儿，与他施礼。庄客道：“来俺庄上有甚事？”王进答道：“实不相瞒，小人子母二人，贪行了些路程，错过了宿店。来到这里，前不巴[22]村，后不巴店，欲投贵庄借宿一宵，明日早行，依例拜纳房金。万望周全方便。”庄客道：“既是如此，且等一等，待我去问庄主太公，肯时，但歇不妨。”王进又道：“大哥方便。”庄客入去多时，出来说道：“庄主太公教你两个入来。”王进请娘下了马。王进挑着担儿，就牵了马，随庄客到里面打麦场上，歇下担儿，把马拴在柳树上。子母两个直到草堂上来见太公。

那太公年近六旬之上，须发皆白，头戴遮尘暖帽，身穿直缝宽衫，腰系皂丝绦，足穿熟皮靴。王进见了便拜，太公连忙道：“客人休拜，且请起来。你们是行路的人，辛苦风霜，且坐一坐。”王进母子两个叙礼罢，都坐定。太公问道：“你们是那里来？如何昏晚到此？”王进答道：“小人姓张，原是京师人，今来消折了本钱，无可营用，要去延安府投奔亲眷。不想今日路上贪行了些程途，错过了宿店，欲投贵庄借宿一宵，来日早行。房金依例拜纳。”太公道：“不妨。如今世上人，那个顶着房屋走哩。你母子二位，敢未打火[23]？”叫庄客安排饭来。没多时，就厅上放开条桌子，庄客托出一桶盘，四样菜蔬，一盘牛肉，铺放桌子上，先盪酒来筛下。太公道：“村落中无甚相待，休得见怪。”王进起身谢道：“小人子母无故相扰，得蒙厚意，此恩难报。”太公道：“休这般说，且请吃酒。”一面劝了五七杯酒，搬出饭来，二人吃了，收拾碗碟。太公起身，引王进子母到客房中安歇。王进告道：“小人母亲骑的头口，相烦寄养，草料望乞应付，一发拜还。”太公道：“这个亦不妨。我家也有头口骡马，教庄客牵去后槽，一发喂养，草料亦不用忧心。”王进谢了，挑那担儿到客房里来。庄客点上灯火，一面提汤来洗了脚。太公自回里面去了。王进子母二人谢了庄客，掩上房门，收拾歇息。

次日，睡到天晓，不见起来。庄主太公来到客房前过，听得王进子母在房中声唤。太公问道：“客官失晓，好起了。”王进听得，慌忙出房来，见太公施礼，说道：“小人起多时了。夜来多多搅扰，甚是不当。”太公问道：“谁人如此声唤？”王进道：“实不敢瞒太公说，老母鞍马劳倦，昨夜心疼病发。”太公道：“既然如此，客人休要烦恼，教你老母且在老夫庄上住几日。我有个医心疼的方，叫庄客去县里撮药来，与你老母亲吃。教他放心，慢慢地将息。”王进谢了。

话休絮繁。自此王进子母两个，在太公庄上服药。住了五七日，觉道母亲病患痊了，王进收拾要行。当日因来后槽看马，只见空地上一个后生，脱膊着，刺着一身青龙[24]，银盘也似一个面皮，约有十八九岁，拿条棒在那里使。王进看了半晌，不觉失口道：“这棒也使得好了。只是有破绽，赢不得真好汉。”那后生听得大怒，喝道：“你是甚么人，敢来笑话我的本事！俺经了七八个有名的师父，我不信倒不如你，你敢和我扠一扠么？”说犹未了，太公到来，喝那后生：“不得无礼！”那后生道：“叵耐这厮笑话我的棒法。”太公道：“客人莫不会使枪棒？”王进道：“颇晓得些。敢问长上，这后生是宅上的谁？”太公道：“是老汉的儿子。”王进道：“既然是宅内小官人，若爱学时，小人点拨他端正如何？”太公道：“恁地时，十分好。”便教那后生来拜师父。那后生那里肯拜，心中越怒，道：“阿爹休听这厮胡说！若吃他赢得我这条棒时，我便拜他为师。”王进道：“小官人若是不当村[25]时，较量一棒耍子。”那后生就空地当中，把一条棒使得风车儿似转，向王进道：“你来，你来！怕的不算好汉！”王进只是笑，不肯动手。太公道：“客官既是肯教小顽时，使一棒何妨？”王进笑道：“恐冲撞了令郎时，须不好看。”太公道：“这个不妨。若是打折了手脚，也是他自作自受。”王进道：“恕无礼。”去枪架上拿了一条棒在手里，来到空地上，使个旗鼓[26]。那后生看了一看，拿条棒滚将入来，径奔王进。王进托地拖了棒便走，那后生抡着棒又赶入来。王进回身，把棒望空地里劈将下来。那后生见棒劈来，用棒来隔。王进却不打下来，将棒一掣，却望后生怀里直搠将来，只一缴，那后生的棒丢在一边，扑地望后倒了。王进连忙撇下棒，向前扶住道：“休怪，休怪！”那后生爬将起来，便去傍边掇条凳子，纳王进坐，便拜道：“我枉自经了许多师家，原来不值半分。师父，没奈何，只得请教。”王进道：“我子母二人，连日在此搅扰宅上，无恩可报，当以效力。”

太公大喜，叫那后生穿了衣裳，一同来后堂坐下。叫庄客杀一个羊，安排了酒食果品之类，就请王进的母亲一同赴席。四个人坐定，一面把盏，太公起身劝了一杯酒，说道：“师父如此高强，必是个教头。小儿有眼不识泰山。”王进笑道：“奸不厮欺，俏不厮瞒。[27]小人不姓张，俺是东京八十万禁军教头王进的便是，这枪棒终日搏弄。为因新任一个高太尉，原被先父打翻，今做殿帅府太尉，怀挟旧仇，要奈何王进。小人不合属他所管，和他争不得，只得子母二人逃上延安府去，投托老种经略相公处勾当。不想来到这里，得遇长上父子二位如此看待；又蒙救了老母病患，连日管顾，甚是不当。既然令郎肯学时，小人一力奉教。只是令郎学的都是花棒，只好看，上阵无用。小人从新点拨他。”太公见说了，便道：“我儿，可知输了，快来再拜师父。”那后生又拜了王进。太公道：“教头在上，老汉祖居在这华阴县界，前面便是少华山，这村便唤做史家村。村中总有三四百家，都姓史。老汉的儿子从小不务农业，只爱刺枪使棒。母亲说他不得，呕气死了。老汉只得随他性子，不知使了多少钱财，投师父教他。又请高手匠人，与他刺了这身花绣，肩臂胸膛总有九条龙，满县人口顺，都叫他做九纹龙史进。教头今日既到这里，一发成全了他亦好。老汉自当重重酬谢。”王进大喜道：“太公放心，既然如此说时，小人一发教了令郎方去。”自当日为始，吃了酒食，留住王教头子母二人在庄上。史进每日求王教头点拨，十八般武艺，一一从头指教。那十八般武艺？

矛锤弓弩铳，鞭简剑链挝，

斧钺并戈戟，牌棒与枪杈。

话说这史进每日在庄上管待王教头母子二人，指教武艺。史太公自去华阴县中承当里正，不在话下。不觉荏苒光阴，早过半年之上。正是：

窗外日光弹指过，席间花影坐前移。

一杯未进笙歌送，阶下辰牌又报时。

前后得半年之上，史进把这十八般武艺，从新学得十分精熟。多得王进尽心指教，点拨得件件都有奥妙。王进见他学得精熟了，自思：“在此虽好，只是不了。”一日想起来，相辞要上延安府去。史进那里肯放，说道：“师父，只在此间过了。小弟奉养你母子二人，以终天年，多少是好！”王进道：“贤弟，多蒙你好心，在此十分之好。只恐高太尉追捕到来，负累了你，恐教贤弟亦遭缧绁之厄，不当稳便，以此两难。我一心要去延安府，投着在老种经略处勾当，那里是镇守边庭，用人之际，足可安身立命。”史进并太公苦留不住，只得安排一个筵席送行。托出一盘，两个段子[28]，一百两花银谢师。次日，王进收拾了担儿，备了马，子母二人相辞史太公、史进。请娘乘了马，望延安府路途进发。史进叫庄客挑了担儿，亲送十里之程，中心难舍。史进当时拜别了师父，洒泪分手，和庄客自回。王教头依旧自挑了担儿，跟着马，和娘两个，自取关西路里去了。

话中不说王进去投军役，只说史进回到庄上，每日只是打熬[29]气力，亦且壮年，又没老小[30]，半夜三更起来演习武艺，白日里只在庄后射弓走马。不到半载之间，史进父亲太公染患病症，数日不起。史进使人远近请医士看治，不能痊可，呜呼哀哉，太公殁了。史进一面备棺椁盛殓，请僧修设好事，追斋理七[31]，荐拔太公。又请道士建立斋醮，超度生天。整做了十数坛好事功果道场，选了吉日良时，出丧安葬。满村中三四百史家庄户，都来送丧挂孝，埋殡在村西山上祖坟内了。史进家自此无人管业，史进又不肯务农，只要寻人使家生[32]，较量枪棒。

自史太公死后，又早过了三四个月日。时当六月中旬，炎天正热。那一日，史进无可消遣，捉个交床[33]，坐在打麦场边柳阴树下乘凉。对面松林透过风来，史进喝采道：“好凉风！”正乘凉哩，只见一个人，探头探脑在那里张望。史进喝道：“作怪！谁在那里张俺庄上？”史进跳起身来，转过树背后，打一看时，认得是猎户摽兔李吉。史进喝道：“李吉！张我庄内做甚么？莫不来相脚头[34]？”李吉向前声喏道：“大郎，小人要寻庄上矮丘乙郎吃碗酒，因见大郎在此乘凉，不敢过来冲撞。”史进道：“我且问你，往常时，你只是担些野味来我庄上卖，我又不曾亏了你，如何一向不将来卖与我？敢是欺负我没钱？”李吉答道：“小人怎敢！一向没有野味，以此不敢来。”史进道：“胡说！偌大一个少华山，恁地广阔，不信没有个獐儿兔儿。”李吉道：“大郎原来不知。如今近日上面添了一伙强人，扎下个山寨，在上面聚集着五七百个小喽啰[35]，有百十匹好马。为头那个大王唤做神机军师朱武，第二个唤做跳涧虎陈达，第三个唤做白花蛇杨春。这三个为头，打家劫舍。华阴县里不敢捉他，出三千贯赏钱召人拿他。谁敢上去惹他？因此上小人们不敢上山打捕野味，那讨来卖！”史进道：“我也听得说有强人，不想那厮们如此大弄，必然要恼人。李吉，你今后有野味时，寻些来。”李吉唱个喏，自去了。

史进归到厅前，寻思：这厮们大弄，必要来薅恼[36]村坊。既然如此，便叫庄客拣两头肥水牛来杀了，庄内自有造下的好酒，先烧了一陌顺溜纸[37]，便叫庄客去请这当村里三四百史家庄户，都到家中草堂上，序齿坐下。教庄客一面把盏劝酒，史进对众人说道：“我听得少华山上有三个强人，聚集着五七百小喽啰，打家劫舍。这厮们既然大弄，必然早晚要来俺村中啰唣[38]。我今特请你众人来商议，倘若那厮们来时，各家准备。我庄上打起梆子，你众人可各执枪棒前来救应。你各家有事，亦是如此。递相救护，共保村坊。如若强人自来，都是我来理会。”众人道：“我等村农，只靠大郎做主。梆子响时，谁敢不来。”当晚众人谢酒，各自分付，回家准备器械。自此史进修整门户墙垣，安排庄院，拴束衣甲，整顿刀马，提防贼寇，不在话下。

且说少华山寨中，三个头领坐定商议。为头的神机军师朱武，虽无本事，广有谋略。朱武当与陈达、杨春说道：“如今我听知华阴县里出三千贯赏钱，召人捉我们。诚恐来时，要与他厮杀。只是山寨钱粮欠少，如何不去劫掳些来，以供山寨之用。聚积些粮食在寨里，防备官军来时，好和他打熬。”跳涧虎陈达道：“说得是。如今便去华阴县里先问他借粮，看他如何。”白花蛇杨春道：“不要华阴县去，只去蒲城县，万无一失。”陈达道：“蒲城县人户稀少，钱粮不多。不如只打华阴县，那里人民丰富，钱粮广有。”杨春道：“哥哥不知，若去打华阴县时，须从史家村过。那个九纹龙史进是个大虫，不可去撩拨他。他如何肯放我们过去？”陈达道：“兄弟好懦弱！一个村坊过去不得，怎地敢抵敌官军？”杨春道：“哥哥不可小觑了他，那人端的了得。”朱武道：“我也曾闻他十分英雄，说这人真有本事。兄弟休去罢。”陈达叫将起来，说道：“你两个闭了鸟嘴！长别人志气，灭自己威风。也只是一个人，须不三头六臂，我不信。”喝叫小喽啰：“快备我的马来！如今便去先打史家庄，后取华阴县。”朱武、杨春再三谏劝，陈达那里肯听，随即披挂上马，点了一百四五十小喽啰，鸣锣擂鼓，下山望史家村去了。

且说史进正在庄内整制刀马，只见庄客报知此事。史进听得，就庄上敲起梆子来。那庄前庄后，庄东庄西，三四百史家庄户，听得梆子响，都拖枪拽棒，聚起三四百人，一齐都到史家庄上。看了史进头戴一字巾，身披朱红甲，上穿青锦袄，下着抹绿靴，腰系皮搭膊[39]，前后铁掩心，一张弓，一壶箭，手里拿一把三尖两刃四窍八环刀。庄客牵过那匹火炭赤马，史进上了马，绰[40]了刀，前面摆着三四十壮健的庄客，后面列着八九十村蠢的乡夫，各史家庄户都跟在后头，一齐呐喊，直到村北路口摆开。却早望见来军，但见：

红旗闪闪，赤帜翩翩。小喽啰乱搠叉枪，莽撞汉齐担刀斧。头巾歪整，浑如三月桃花；衲袄紧拴，却似九秋落叶。个个圆睁横死眼，人人辄起夜叉心。

那少华山陈达，引了人马，飞奔到山坡下，便将小喽啰摆开。史进看时，见陈达头戴干红凹面巾，身披裹金生铁甲，上穿一领红衲袄，脚穿一对吊墩靴，腰系七尺攒线搭膊，坐骑一匹高头白马，手中横着丈八点钢矛。小喽啰两势下呐喊，二员将就马上相见。

陈达在马上看着史进，欠身施礼。史进喝道：“汝等杀人放火，打家劫舍，犯着迷天大罪，都是该死的人。你也须有耳朵，好大胆，直来太岁头上动土[41]！”陈达在马上答道：“俺山寨里欠少些粮食，欲往华阴县借粮，经由贵庄，借一条路，并不敢动一根草。可放我们过去，回来自当拜谢。”史进道：“胡说！俺家见当里正，正要来拿你这伙贼。今日到来，经由我村中过，却不拿你，倒放你过去？本县知道，须连累于我。”陈达道：“四海之内，皆兄弟也。相烦借一条路。”史进道：“甚么闲话！我便肯时，有一个不肯，你问得他肯便去。”陈达道：“好汉教我问谁？”史进道：“你问得我手里这口刀肯，便放你去。”陈达大怒道：“赶人不要赶上[42]，休得要逞精神！”史进也怒，抡手中刀，骤坐下马，来战陈达。陈达也拍马挺枪来迎史进。两个交马，但见：

一来一往，一上一下。一来一往，有如深水戏珠龙；一上一下，却似半岩争食虎。左盘右旋，好似张飞敌吕布；前回后转，浑如敬德战秦琼。九纹龙忿怒，三尖刀只望顶门飞；跳涧虎生嗔，丈八矛不离心坎刺。好手中间逞好手，红心里面夺红心。

史进、陈达两个斗了多时，只见战马咆哮，踢起手中军器；枪刀来往，各防架隔遮拦。两个斗到间深里，史进卖个破绽，让陈达把枪望心窝里搠来，史进却把腰一闪，陈达和枪入怀里来。史进轻舒猿臂，款扭狼腰，只一挟，把陈达轻轻摘离了嵌花鞍，款款揪住了线搭膊，丢在马前受降。那匹战马拨风也似去了。史进叫庄客将陈达绑缚了。众人把小喽啰一赶，都走了。史进回到庄上，将陈达绑在庭心内柱上，等待一发拿了那两个贼首，一并解官请赏。且把酒来赏了众人，教权且散。众人喝采：“不枉了史大郎如此豪杰！”

休说众人欢喜饮酒，却说朱武、杨春两个，正在寨里猜疑，捉摸不定，且教小喽啰再去探听消息。只见回去的人牵着空马，奔到山前，只叫道：“苦也！陈家哥哥不听二位哥哥所说，送了性命。”朱武问其缘故，小喽啰备说交锋一节，怎当史进英勇。朱武道：“我的言语不听，果有此祸。”杨春道：“我们尽数都去，和他死并如何？”朱武道：“亦是不可。他尚自输了，你如何并得他过。我有一条苦计，若救他不得，我和你都休。”杨春问道：“如何苦计？”朱武附耳低言，说道：“只除恁地。”杨春道：“好计！我和你便去，事不宜迟。”

再说史进正在庄上，忿怒未消，只见庄客飞报道：“山寨里朱武、杨春自来了。”史进道：“这厮合休，我教他两个一发解官。快牵过马来。”一面打起梆子，众人早都到来。史进上了马，正待出庄门，只见朱武、杨春步行已到庄前，两个双双跪下，擎着两眼泪。史进下马来喝道：“你两个跪下如何说？”朱武哭道：“小人等三个，累被官司逼迫，不得已上山落草[43]。当初发愿道：‘不求同日生，只愿同日死。’虽不及关、张、刘备的义气，其心则同。今日小弟陈达不听好言，误犯虎威，已被英雄擒捉在贵庄，无计恳求，今来一径就死。望英雄将我三人一发解官请赏，誓不皱眉。我等就英雄手内请死，并无怨心。”史进听了，寻思道：“他们直恁义气！我若拿他去解官请赏时，反教天下好汉们耻笑我不英雄。自古道：大虫不吃伏肉。”史进便道：“你两个且跟我进来。”朱武、杨春并无惧怯，随了史进直到后厅前跪下，又教史进绑缚。史进三回五次叫起来，那两个那里肯起来。惺惺惜惺惺，好汉识好汉。史进道：“你们既然如此义气深重，我若送了你们，不是好汉。我放陈达还你如何？”朱武道：“休得连累了英雄，不当稳便。宁可把我们去解官请赏。”史进道：“如何使得。你肯吃我酒食么？”朱武道：“一死尚然不惧，何况酒肉乎！”当时史进大喜，解放陈达，就后厅上座置酒设席，管待三人。朱武、杨春、陈达拜谢大恩。酒至数杯，少添春色。酒罢，三人谢了史进，回山去了。史进送出庄门，自回庄上。

却说朱武等三人归到寨中坐下，朱武道：“我们不是这条苦计，怎得性命在此。虽然救了一人，却也难得史进为义气上放了我们。过几日备些礼物送去，谢他救命之恩。”

话休絮繁。过了十数日，朱武等三人收拾得三十两蒜条金，使两个小喽啰，趁月黑夜送去史家庄上。当夜初更时分，小喽啰敲门，庄客报知史进。史进火急披衣，来到门前，问小喽啰：“有甚话说？”小喽啰道：“三个头领再三拜复，特地使小校送些薄礼，酬谢大郎不杀之恩。不要推却，望乞笑留。”取出金子递与。史进初时推却，次后寻思道：“既然送来，回礼可酬。”受了金子，叫庄客置酒，管待小校。吃了半夜酒，把些零碎银两赏了小校回山去了。又过半月有馀，朱武等三人在寨中商议，掳掠得一串好大珠子，又使小喽啰连夜送来史家庄上。史进受了，不在话下。

又过了半月，史进寻思道：“也难得这三个敬重我，我也备些礼物回奉他。”次日，叫庄客寻个裁缝，自去县里买了三匹红锦，裁成三领锦袄子；又拣肥羊煮了三个，将大盒子盛了，委两个庄客去送。史进庄上，有个为头的庄客王四，此人颇能答应官府，口舌利便，满庄人都叫他做赛伯当。史进教他同一个得力庄客，挑了盒担，直送到山下。小喽啰问了备细，引到山寨里，见了朱武等。三个头领大喜，受了锦袄子并肥羊酒礼，把十两银子赏了庄客。每人吃了十数碗酒，下山回归庄内，见了史进，说道：“山上头领多多上复。”史进自此常常与朱武等三人往来，不时间只是王四去山寨里送物事，不则一日。寨里头领也频频地使人送金银来与史进。

荏苒光阴，时遇八月中秋到来。史进要和三人说话，约至十五夜来庄上赏月饮酒。先使庄客王四赍一封请书，直去少华山上，请朱武、陈达、杨春来庄上赴席。王四驰书径到山寨里，见了三位头领，下了来书。朱武看了大喜，三个应允，随即写封回书，赏了王四五两银子，吃了十来碗酒。王四下得山来，正撞着如常送物事来的小喽啰，一把抱住，那里肯放，又拖去山路边村酒店里，吃了十数碗酒。王四相别了回庄，一面走着，被山风一吹，酒却涌上来，踉踉跄跄，一步一，走不得十里之路，见座林子，奔到里面，望着那绿茸茸莎草地上，扑地倒了。

原来摽兔李吉正在那山坡下张兔儿，认得是史家庄上王四，赶入林子里来扶他，那里扶得动。只见王四搭膊里突出银子来，李吉寻思道：“这厮醉了。那里讨得许多！何不拿他些？”也是天罡星合当聚会，自然生出机会来。李吉解那搭膊，望地下只一抖，那封回书和银子都抖出来。李吉拿起，颇识几字，将书拆开看时，见上面写着少华山朱武、陈达、杨春，中间多有兼文带武的言语，却不识得，只认得三个名字。李吉道：“我做猎户，几时能勾发迹。算命道我今年有大财，却在这里！华阴县里见出三千贯赏钱，捕捉他三个贼人。叵耐史进那厮，前日我去他庄上寻矮丘乙郎，他道我来相脚头踩盘[44]。你原来倒和贼人来往！”银子并书都拿去了，望华阴县里来出首。

却说庄客王四一觉直睡到二更，方醒觉来。看见月光微微照在身上，王四吃了一惊，跳将起来，却见四边都是松树。便去腰里摸时，搭膊和书都不见了。四下里寻时，只见空搭膊在莎草地上，王四只管叫苦，寻思道：“银子不打紧，这封回书却怎生好！正不知被甚人拿去了？”眉头一纵，计上心来，自道：“若回去庄上，说脱了回书，大郎必然焦躁，定是赶我出去。不如只说不曾有回书，那里查照。”计较定了，飞也似取路归来庄上，却好五更天气。

史进见王四回来，问道：“你如何方才归来？”王四道：“托主人福荫，寨中三个头领都不肯放，留住王四，吃了半夜酒，因此回来迟了。”史进又问：“曾有回书么？”王四道：“三个头领要写回书，却是小人道：三位头领既然准来赴席，何必回书？小人又有杯酒，路上恐有些失支脱节，不是耍处。”史进听了大喜，说道：“不枉了诸人叫做赛伯当，真个了得！”王四应道：“小人怎敢差迟，路上不曾住脚，一直奔回庄上。”史进道：“既然如此，教人去县里买些果品案酒[45]伺候。”

不觉中秋节至，是日晴明得好。史进当日分付家中庄客，宰了一腔大羊，杀了百十个鸡鹅，准备下酒食筵宴。看看天色晚来，怎见得好个中秋？但见：

午夜初长，黄昏已半，一轮月挂如银。冰盘如昼，赏玩正宜人。清影十分圆满，桂花玉兔交馨。帘栊高卷，金杯频劝酒，欢笑贺升平。年年当此节，酩酊醉醺醺。莫辞终夕饮，银汉露华新。

且说少华山上朱武、陈达、杨春三个头领，分付小喽啰看守寨栅，只带三五个做伴，将了朴刀，各跨口腰刀，不骑鞍马，步行下山，径来到史家庄上。史进接着，各叙礼罢，请入后园。庄内已安排下筵宴，史进请三位头领上坐，史进对席相陪，便叫庄客把前后庄门拴了。一面饮酒，庄内庄客轮流把盏，一边割羊劝酒。酒至数杯，却早东边推起那轮明月，但见：

桂花离海峤，云叶散天衢。彩霞照万里如银，素魄映千山似水。一轮爽垲，能分宇宙澄清；四海团，射映乾坤皎洁。影横旷野，惊独宿之乌鸦；光射平湖，照双栖之鸿雁。冰轮展出三千里，玉兔平吞四百州。

史进正和三个头领在后园饮酒，赏玩中秋，叙说旧话新言，只听得墙外一声喊起，火把乱明。史进大惊，跳起身来，分付：“三位贤友且坐，待我去看。”喝叫庄客不要开门，掇条梯子，上墙打一看时，只见是华阴县县尉在马上，引着两个都头，带着三四百土兵，围住庄院。史进和三个头领只管叫苦。外面火把光中，照见钢叉、朴刀、五股叉、留客住[46]，摆得似麻林一般。两个都头口里叫道：“不要走了强贼！”

不是这伙人来捉史进并三个头领，有分教：史进先杀了一两个人，结识了十数个好汉，大闹动河北，直使天罡地煞一齐相会。直教芦花深处屯兵士，荷叶阴中治战船。毕竟史进与三个头领怎地脱身，且听下回分解。

[1] 气毬——“毬”就是“球”。古时踢的球，外面是皮，里面是羽毛；到宋时气球才盛行。宋时人踢气球，动作近似现在踢毽子。

[2] 三瓦两舍——瓦舍是宋时游戏场和妓院、茶楼、酒馆、赌博场等等集中的场所。三瓦两舍，漫指一些瓦舍。

[3] 迭配——就是递配。把罪犯按境解送到他处。

[4] 隔涝——疥疮。干隔涝，干疥疮。开封、杭州都有这话。这里是不干不净、不清不楚的意思。

[5] 将士——“士”应为“仕”。将仕本是将仕郎（官名）的简称，后用来称呼那些没有官职的富豪。

[6] 干人——官府中的办事人员，又称“府干”。

[7] 见——这里同“现”。

[8] 叉手——两手交叉放在胸前，是恭敬的拱手姿势。

[9] 齐云社——宋时踢球的团体组织。

[10] 玉清教主微妙道君皇帝——赵佶（宋徽宗）酷信道教，道士们恭维他，送给他这样一个尊号。也省称作“道君皇帝”或“道君”。

[11] 手本——官吏的履历帖子，在谒见长官时用的。

[12] 厮——这里是指人而言，对男子的贱称，犹如说家伙、小子。

[13] 唱喏（rě）——一面拱揖，一面口中作喏声，这种敬礼方式，叫做唱喏。躬身特别弯屈、声音特别响亮的叫做唱肥喏、大喏。这是宋时的一种礼俗。宋时以后，还有些地区把拱揖叫做唱喏，但只有动作，并不发声。

[14] 理会——这里是解决、办理的意思。有时也作了解、懂得和关心、注意解释。

[15] 圆社——球社。这里用作对球社中陪客踢球的专门职业者的称呼。

[16] 奈何——原意是如之何。这里是对付、处理的意思。

[17] 北宋时，种世衡和他的子孙，先后在西北一带任边防重要职务，其中种谔、种师道、种师中战绩最著：谔任军职时间久；师道老年时威望甚高，人民把他当作抗金的主要旗帜，称他作“老种”；师中是在抗金战役中牺牲的。本书中的“老种经略”，当时是指种谔；“小种经略”，是指种师道。

[18] 安置——就寝，安歇。后来用作称别人就寝的敬词。

[19] 袱驼——驮在马背上的包袱、包裹。也写作“袱驮”。

[20] 福物——祭神的肉类食品。祭过神，将祭物散给大家吃，叫做散福。

[21] 遮莫——有尽管、那怕、拼着、无论、莫非等意思。又写作“折莫”。

[22] 巴——靠近。后文第十六回“巴到岗子上”的巴，是爬的意思。

[23] 打火——指行人在旅途中做饭或者吃饭。

[24] 刺着一身青龙——为了表示英雄好汉，在身上刺花纹，叫做锦体，是宋时盛行的风俗。花纹都涂上青色，因之也叫雕青。

[25] 村——冲撞，冒犯。又作粗野、愚蠢解释。

[26] 旗鼓——这里是架式、姿势的意思。

[27] 奸不厮欺，俏不厮瞒——真人面前不说假话的意思。

[28] 两个段子——这里“段”字同“缎”。两个段子，就是两匹缎子。

[29] 打熬——锻炼的意思。有时也作忍耐、坚持解释。

[30] 老小——这里专指老婆，有时也用以泛称一家老幼，犹如后来说的“家眷”。

[31] 理七——人死之后，生者每七天斋供他一次，找和尚来念一回经；四十九天，共设斋供七次，叫做理七。最后的一个七天，叫做断七。

[32] 家生——家伙、器具。这里指的是武器。

[33] 交床——有靠背、能折叠的椅子。也叫胡床、交椅。

[34] 相脚头——相，看，观察。相脚头，就是踩盘子，宋时江湖上的隐语。详见下文“踩盘”注。

[35] 喽啰——旧时对占有固定地盘的强人部众的称呼。有时也作伶俐、机警解释。

[36] 薅（hāo）恼——搅扰。也写作“蒿恼”。

[37] 一陌顺溜纸——一刀纸钱。迷信的传说：举行任何仪式，都要烧纸钱给鬼神，才能求得顺溜（吉利）。后文常有“烧纸”一语，就指的烧纸钱。一陌本是一百张，通常指的一刀或者一垛。

[38] 啰唣——吵闹，纠缠，骚扰。

[39] 搭膊——一种束衣的腰巾。多由布或其他织物制成，呈袋状，中间开口，束在腰间，可装钱物。

[40] 绰——抄、抓、提。

[41] 太岁头上动土——自找倒霉的意思。古人迷信，称木星做“太岁”，认为是凶煞；如若朝着木星出现的方向动土建筑，就要发生灾祸。

[42] 赶人不要赶上——意思是不要逼人太甚。

[43] 落草——旧时把逃往山林为盗称做落草。

[44] 踩盘——窃贼事先探行路线。是宋时江湖上的隐语。

[45] 案酒——原是用菜肴下酒的意思，通常指下酒的菜肴。有时也写作“按酒”。

[46] 留客住——一种有倒钩的武器。

CHAPTER 1. Drill Instructor Wang Goes Stealthily to Yanan Prefecture; Shi Jin Defends His Village

DURING the reign of the Emperor Zhezong of the Song Dynasty there lived at the Eastern Capital Bianliang, in Kaifeng Prefecture, a loose profligate, named Gao.44 He could handle well either spear or cudgel, and was an extremely good player at football. He was the second son of a Gao family, but instead of calling him Gao the Second,45 people gave him the nickname of Gao Qiu meaning Gao “the Ball.” Later on, however, he adopted another character, also pronounced Qiu.

He could play well on wood or string instruments, but was no good at poetry or literature. If there was a discussion of benevolence, justice, propriety, wisdom, or virtue he was unable to take part. He wasted his time in the company of the son of a wealthy man, and every day these two spent their time in pleasure resorts. His conduct became so bad that at last the wealthy man lodged a complaint before the Prefect who had him arrested, punished with twenty blows of the bamboo, and then banished from the capital.

Gao Qiu went to Huaixi in Linhuai Prefecture where he found refuge in a gambling den, which afforded shelter to all the lazy rascals from all places. Three years after this, however, the Emperor granted an amnesty so as to show his benevolence. Upon hearing of this, Gao Qiu decided to return to the capital, and got an introduction to a man named Dong Jiangshi who kept a drug store at the Jinliang Bridge. Upon reading the letter, this man remembered the bad reputation of Gao Qiu, and was afraid that if he lived at his house he might have an evil influence on his children. So after about ten days Dong spoke to Gao Qiu, “Here we can offer you little help. I will however recommend you to a certain Su the Younger, a scholar, who may assist you in cutting a fine career. What do you think of that?”

Gao Qiu was much pleased at this and thanked Dong Jiangshi. Dong wrote a note and sent this with Gao Qiu to the residence of the high official. The doorkeeper announced the arrival, and the scholar Su came out to see Gao Qiu. He also remembered that Gao Qiu was a profligate and decided to get rid of him by recommending him to the Emperor’s son-in-law, the Prince Consort Wang Jinqing as a steward.

The following day Su sent Gao Qiu with a servant to Prince Consort Wang Jinqing. This Prince Wang was the husband of the younger sister of the Emperor Zhezong, and son-in-law of the Emperor Shenzong. He took pleasure in meeting flaboyant, stylish men, and when he received the introduction he was glad, and he made Gao Qiu his personal attendant.

An ancient saying is: “Remoteness begets neglect; nearness brings about intimacy.” It happened that on his birthday Prince Wang suddenly gave orders to prepare a feast, and specially invited his maternal uncle Prince Duan who was the eleventh son of the late Emperor Shenzong, and the younger brother of the Emperor Zhezong. He controlled the affairs of the Emperor’s eastern palaces where he was known as the Ninth Prince. He was intelligent and handsome—but his taste was not so—he preferring profligacy. However, he was a good performer on the lute, he could play chess, paint pictures, and was an excellent footballer. On the day mentioned Prince Duan took the seat of honor at the feast prepared. When the wine was brought in they drank several cups, and after the second course Prince Duan took leave for the toilet. He then retired to the library for a rest and there he happened to see on the reading table a pair of lions made of white jade used as paperweights. They were of elegant workmanship, and he admired them very much. Prince Wang saw that Prince Duan was fond of them so he said, “There is also a jade brush rack with a dragon design made by the same hand, but it is not here now. I will get it tomorrow and send both of them to you.” Prince Duan was much pleased and said, “I am much obliged for your generosity. I think the brush rack must be very fine.” The two men then returned to the banquet and feasted until the evening—when they were very intoxicated they separated, and Prince Duan returned to the palace.

The following day Prince Wang packed the two jade-lion paperweights and the jade brush rack in a golden box, wrote a letter, and sent Gao Qiu off with them. Upon reaching Prince Duan’s palace the doorkeeper reported his arrival to the courtyard attendant who inquired his business and then said, “My master is playing football with the eunuchs in the courtyard. You may go in by yourself.” The courtyard attendant accompanied him to the gate, and there Gao Qiu saw Prince Duan wearing as a cap, a soft gauze towel of the Tang Dynasty style, and arrayed in a purple gown embroidered with a dragon and a waistbelt with two tassels. The gown was folded up and tucked in the belt. His boots were inlaid with golden thread in the design of a phoenix. There were three or five eunuchs playing football with him.

Gao Qiu dared not to intrude—so he took up his position behind the servants. Now good luck had come to Gao Qiu. The ball rebounded from the ground and Prince Duan failed to kick it—it bounced into the crowd of spectators and landed at the side of Gao Qiu. He saw the ball and instantly had courage. He used the mandarin-duck twist (one leg behind the other) and kicked the ball back to Prince Duan. Prince Duan saw this and being pleased with the exhibition, asked who he was.

Gao Qiu knelt down and said, “I am a confidential servant of Prince Consort Wang and by his orders, I have brought two jade curios to present to Your Highness,” so saying, he offered the letter with both hands.

Prince Duan hearing this, laughed and said that Prince Wang was very obliging. He opened the box and after examining the curios handed them to an attendant. He then asked Gao Qiu, “Can you play football? Who are you?” Gao Qiu clasping his hands and kneeling down said, “I am called Gao Qiu. I was punishable for kicking that football.” Prince Duan said, “Good! come into the playground and again try.” Gao Qiu saluted with folded arms, and said, “What kind of man I am to dare play with Your Highness?” Prince Duan replied, “This is the Society of Gathering of Clouds,” also known as the “World’s Horizon” (meaning, there is plenty of room for you). It does not matter if you play.” Gao Qiu again saluted; saying, “I cannot do it.” He begged leave to depart time and again, but as Prince Duan insisted upon his playing, Gao Qiu had no escape—so he kowtowed, and confessed his inability, he then untied the garters round his knees and moved towards the center of the ground. Gao Qiu kicked a few times, and Prince Duan applauded. Gao Qiu had to use all his skill to please the Prince. He played the ball as though it stuck to his body like glue or paste. He never missed it. Prince Duan was highly amused and was unwilling to let Gao Qiu return, so he kept him there for the night. Next day Prince Duan ordered a banquet and sent a special invitation to Prince Consort Wang. The latter had become anxious at the absence of Gao Qiu but upon receipt of this invitation he mounted a horse and went to Prince Duan’s palace. Upon entering the banquet hall Duan expressed his gratitude for the curios and then said, “This man Gao Qiu kicks equally well with both feet. I should like to have him for my personal attendant—what do you say?” Prince Wang answered, “If you have any use for him, you may keep him.” Prince Duan was pleased and offering a cup of wine thanked him. The two men chatted until evening.

From that time Prince Duan had Gao Qiu as a special servant and the latter did his work well. Every day he accompanied Prince Duan and was always close at his hand. In less than two months the Emperor Zhezong died without an heir. A large number of civil and military officials petitioned Prince Duan to become Emperor. He ascended the throne with the reign title of Huizong, and known with the Taoist titles of High Priest of Jade Purity and the Emperor of Subtle Truth.

Upon ascending the throne he did nothing remarkable. One day he said to Gao Qiu, “I want to make you an official. But I cannot promote you unless you have shown your merit. Now I will first tell the Grand Council to record your name as an imperial attendant.” Within six months Gao Qiu was raised to Marshal of the Imperial Guard.

Before proceeding to his new post he selected a fortunate hour and a lucky day to begin his duties. All the lower officers of various military ranks—both cavalry and infantry—visited him to pay their respects—present their credentials with details of their records. Gao Qiu, the Marshal of the Imperial Guard, examined these reports one by one and noticed one was missing, that is of Wang Jin, the Drill Instructor of the Imperial Guard. About two weeks before Wang Jin had been sick and had not been able to attend business at his yamen.46 Gao Qiu was very angry at this and shouted, “What nonsense! His credentials are here but he himself has not come. This is disobedience, yet he pretends to be sick at home. Men, have him brought here at once.” He forthwith sent men to arrest Wang Jin.

Now this Wang Jin had no wife and lived with his mother who was over sixty years of age. The sergeant spoke to Wang Jin, “Marshal Gao Qiu of the Imperial Guard has assumed his post but has not yet seen you. The Adjutant reported that you were sick at home but Marshal Gao Qiu did not believe this and has sent me to arrest you—you had better go and see him. If you do not go, I shall be implicated.” Wang Jin hearing this saw no alternative but to go, in spite of his sickness.

Upon entering the door of the headquarters he saw the Marshal at the other end of the hall and kowtowed four times, then bowing he called “nuo” (a sound to attract attention almost equivalent to saying “waiting your order”), then lifting his head he stood at one side.

Marshal Gao Qiu asked, “Are you not the son of Wang Sheng who used to be a Drill Instructor of the whole army?” Wang Jin admitted this.

Marshal Gao Qiu then shouted at him, “So it is you—your father used to sell medicine and exercise the fencing stick to attract a crowd on the street. What military skill have you? But don’t be supercilious because I can court-martial you—you must not dare to presume on your rank and differ from my point of view. On whose influence are you depending? What excuse have you for resting at home?” Wang Jin answered, “I speak the truth. I am certainly sick and have not yet recovered.” Marshal Gao Qiu used abusive language and said, “You banished thief! If you were sick how could you come here?” Then Wang Jin said, “You summoned me here so I had to come.” Marshal Gao Qiu was very angry and shouted an order to the attendants to seize Wang Jin and beat him severely. Among the junior officers there were many who were friendly with Wang Jin, they therefore joined to plead to Marshal Gao Qiu, “Today is your inauguration day it is a lucky day, please forgive this man, this time.”

Marshal Gao Qiu spoke in a loud voice, “You banished thief! These junior officers want me to forgive you. I will speak to you again tomorrow.” Wang Jin confessed his guilt. Holding up his head he recognized that he was Gao Qiu. He left the headquarters and heaving a sigh said, “Just now my life is insecure; this Gao Qiu was previously at the capital known as Gao the Second—head of a gang of lazy men. At that time he was learning to use the cudgels, and my father hit him, and for three or four months he could not get up from a sick bed. Now he has fortunately become Marshal of the Imperial Guard, and is eager for revenge. I did not know that he was my superior officer. From ancient times it has been said: “Fear not the authorities, except those that have authority over you.” There is no help for me. He returned home in a very melancholy mood.

He told his mother about the affair, and they held together and cried: “My son, of thirty-six ways of doing a thing going is the only one that is the best. I am afraid there is no safe place for us.” Wang Jin said, “What you say, mother, is true. Your son has also thought of this plan. There is at Yanan Prefecture a General who guards the frontier and controls many military officers, who used to come to the capital to see me fence. Why should we not now fly to him for refuge? At that place I could get employment and settle down to a quiet life.”

Mother and son discussed this matter and after deciding, she said, “My son, I must go with you secretly: but I am afraid of the sentries who are stationed outside the door by the headquarters, and we certainly will not be able to get away if they hear of our plans.” Wang Jin said, “Never mind, don’t worry, mother, I will arrange matters satisfactorily with them.” Before the sun set Wang Jin called the sentry Zhang to come inside. He gave him an order—“After you have had your supper I want you to go to a place to do something for me.” The sentry inquired where he was to go. Wang Jin said, “Because of my sickness I once took a vow to offer sacrifice at the Yue Temple outside the Suanzao Gate—I wish to be there tomorrow morning and be the first person to burn incense—I want you to go this evening and inform the head priest of this matter. Tell him to have the doors open early tomorrow morning and wait until I come to burn the first incense. There I shall present three sacrifical meats to the gods Liu, Li, and Wang. You must stay at the temple till I come.”

Zhang, the sentry replied, “I have already had my supper and will now go to the temple to arrange matters.”

That night the mother and son packed their baggage—making two loads for carrying on a pole. They filled two bags with fodder to be tied on the horse, and waited until nearly dawn. Then Wang Jin awakened Li, the other sentry, and giving him silver told him to go to the temple and buy the three meats for the sacrifices, as he himself would buy some yellow candles and would arrive later. Li, the sentry, took the money and departed. Wang Jin saddled the horse and led it out of the stable, fastening the fodder on with ropes and making all tight, he assisted his mother to mount. The furniture, etc., was abandoned. Locking the door he shouldered his load and followed the horse. It was the fifth watch about 4 A.M. and was still dark—so availing themselves of this, they left by the Xihua Gate—and traveled quickly toward Yanan Prefecture, Shaanxi province.

The two sentries at the temple bought the meats for the sacrifices, cooked them, and then waited until about 11 A.M. without seeing Wang Jin. Sentry Li became anxious and returned to the house to look for Wang Jin. He found that the doors were locked, and he could not enter. After half a day he saw nobody come. Sentry Zhang stayed at the temple until evening and then returned to the house. They both watched the house during the night without seeing Wang Jin or his mother. The following day they inquired of Wang’s relatives but no one could be found. They did not wish to be implicated, and therefore reported the matter to the headquarters.

Marshal Gao Qiu upon hearing the report was very angry and wrote a dispatch instructing the officials in every prefecture and district to arrest Wang Jin. The two sentries were free from all blame.

Wang Jin and his mother traveled a good distance from the capital taking their meals on the way as chance permitted. They had been on the way over a month, when one evening Wang Jin remarked to his mother who was riding the horse in front, “May Heaven have pity on us and we are now beyond the reach of legal punishment, as although Marshal Gao Qiu has ordered my arrest, Yanan Prefecture is not far away.” They both felt contented but they were not aware that they had passed the only available inn. As it grew dusk, however, they saw the glimmer of a light in a forest a good distance away. Wang Jin decided to investigate as to whether they could stay there for the night. He went into the forest, and saw a farmyard which was surrounded by a mud wall, with about three hundred willow trees outside. He knocked at the gate, and when a servant came he saluted with folded hands. He explained the situation, and asked for a night’s lodging for his mother and himself for which they would pay.

The servant went inside to report the matter, and upon his return said the farmer wished to see them. Wang Jin requested his mother to dismount and tied the horse to a tree. He put his load on the threshing floor, and then they followed the servant into the house.

The farmer was over sixty years of age, and his hair was all white. He was wearing a warm cap to protect his head from the dust; a loose fitting gown with a black sash round the waist, and dressed leather boots. Wang Jin saluted, but the farmer said, “Friend, don’t stand on ceremony. You are travelers in distress. Please be seated.”

Wang Jin and his mother, observing the rules of propriety, sat down, and in answer to the farmer’s questions Wang Jin explained, “My name is Zhang, and I lived in the capital. Business was bad so I sold all my things, and am now on my way to Yanan Prefecture where I hope to stay with my relatives. Today we have traveled a good distance, but have unfortunately missed the inn. We now wish to stay for the night at your honorable house.”

The farmer said, “Never mind! No men of this world carry houses about with them. Have you dined?” He then ordered a servant to bring food. The servants soon arranged a table, and carried in trays with four dishes of vegetables, and dishes of beef. They placed these on the table, and then poured out wine. After exchanging complimentary phrases they sat down, and after several cups of wine, rice was brought in. When they had finished the meal, the farmer conducted them to the guest chamber. Wang Jin said, “My mother has ridden the horse a long way, and I suppose that it will be well fed.”

“That does not matter,” said the farmer. “Here we have many animals, horses and mules, and I have already instructed the servants to look after your horse and feed it well.”

Wang Jin thanked him, and then brought his bundles into the chamber. The servants lit a lamp and brought in a tub of hot water for the guests to wash their feet. When the farmer and servants had withdrawn Wang Jin and his mother retired to rest. They slept till well after daybreak the next day. The farmer came to the door of their room to make inquiries, and heard Wang Jin’s mother groaning so he asked what was the matter. Wang Jin told him, “I certainly will not deceive you. My mother was very tired last night, and she became sick.”

“This being the case, you must not worry,” said the farmer. “Tell your mother that she can rest here for a few days. I have a prescription for her sickness, and will send a servant into the town for the medicine. Tell her that she will soon be well again.” Wang Jin expressed his thanks. His mother took the medicine and in about five days she was quite well again.

On that day Wang Jin wished to leave and went to the stables to look at the horse. In the yard he saw a young man with naked body, tattooed all over with nine dragons and with sleeves turned up. His face was as white as a silver plate. He was about eighteen years old and was exercising with a cudgel. Wang Jin watched him for some time and then soliloquized, “You use your cudgels very well but I think it could be improved, as there are better men than you.”

The young man was angry upon hearing this and said in a loud voice, “Who are you? How dare you sneer at my display—I have been trained by about eight well-known teachers, and I do not think you are their equal. Would you care to fence with me?” While he was speaking the farmer came on the scene and said, “Young man, you are ill-mannered.” He replied, “He should not have laughed at my display.”

“Can our guest use the cudgel?” asked the farmer. “I know a little about it. May I ask who is this young man?” The farmer replied. “He is my son.” “As he is a young man of this house I will give him a few lessons if he likes.” “That’s very good,” said the farmer. He then summoned his son to come and pay respects to the guest, but he was unwilling to do this and instead he became very angry—He said, “Father, do not listen to his stupid talk—If he beats me with the cudgel, then I will pay respects to him as a teacher.”

“If you do not believe that I can do this, let us have a contest with the cudgels.” The young man walked to the middle of the yard and picking up a cudgel whirled it round. He addressed Wang Jin, “Come on! If afraid, you will be a coward.” Wang Jin only laughed, and was unwilling to move. “If you are willing to instruct my son, what objection have you to using the cudgel?” said the farmer. Wang Jin laughed, “I am afraid that I may hurt your son, and that will not do.” “That does not matter. Even if you break his arm or leg, that will be his own fault,” said the farmer. Wang Jin said, “Forgive me if I make a mistake.” He then went to the arms rack, and taking a cudgel, went to the center of the yard and stood on guard. The young man seeing this, seized his cudgel and went to strike at him. Wang Jin retreated, trailing his cudgel on the ground. The farmer’s son flourished his weapon and pursued him. Wang Jin suddenly turned round and delivered a downward blow. Seeing the blow descending, the farmer’s son met it with an upward thrust. Wang Jin stayed his blow, drew his cudgel away, and then with a sudden thrust, struck the young man on the breast and with a twist, knocked the young man’s cudgel out of his hand. He fell down on his back, and Wang Jin immediately advanced to lift him, saying; “Do not blame me! Do not get offended!” The farmer’s son scrambled up, brought a stool and requested Wang Jin to be seated. He saluted Wang Jin, saying: “I have wasted my time with other teachers; but they prove to be unworthy half a cash.47 Now I have to ask you to be my teacher.”

“My mother and I have given much trouble to your house for many days,” said Wang Jin. I have no favors to give you but I can compensate by teaching you.” The farmer was much pleased and told the servants to kill a sheep—prepare a feast with wine and fruit. He also invited Wang Jin’s mother to attend the banquet. All four sat down and drank wine together. The farmer stood up with a cup of wine and addressing Wang Jin, said, “Teacher, you are so skillful; you must be an instructor. My son, you have eyes, but have failed to see this eminent person.” Wang Jin laughed, “I will not deceive you. I am not Zhang; I am Wang Jin, Drill Inspector of the Imperial Guard at Kaifeng. Just now a new commander has arrived—Marshal Gao Qiu—and because my father once knocked him down with a cudgel he still harbors resentment, against me. As I am his subordinate I cannot dispute with him, so I take my mother to Yanan Prefecture. It was by chance that I came here and met you. You have treated me well—cured my mother, entertained us, so I felt uneasy of your generosity. If your son is willing to learn I can teach him. At present, his fencing is only showy and spectacular, but in a real contest it would be of no use. I will instruct him properly from the beginning.” The farmer insisted upon his son paying respects to his new teacher, and said, “You are a first-class instructor. My ancestors lived in this district of Huayin County, close to Mount Shaohua. This is the Shi family village, and contains about four hundred families of the surname Shi. My son takes interest in playing with lances and cudgels instead of doing farm work. When his mother remonstrated with him, he paid no heed and she became angry and died. I am unable to control him and do not know how much money he has spent. He engaged a man to teach him and also employed a workman to tattoo nine dragons on his body, so that the people about here call him “Shi Jin with nine dragons.” Drill Instructor, you have come here today and completed his training very well. I will amply reward you.”

Wang Jin began his lessons from that day and Shi Jin asked to be taught the eighteen subjects of athletics in detail. In a little over half a year he had mastered these:(1)use of the lance;(2)the long-handled mallet;(3)the bow;(4)the crossbow;(5)the jingal;(6)the iron whip;(7)the iron truncheon;(8)the two-edged sword;(9)the chain;(10)the hooks;(11)the axe;(12)the battle-axe;(13)the three-pronged spear;(14)the halberd;(15)the shield;(16)the cudgel;(17)the spear;(18)the rake.

He learned these one by one and became proficient.

Wang Jin thought that he could not stay there any longer although the conditions were suitable. One day he told them that he wished to leave. Shi Jin replied, “Master, you must not think of leaving; I will keep both you and your mother here till your dying days; will that not be better?” “Worthy sir, I have received many favors from you but I am afraid that Marshal Gao Qiu’s men may arrive and you will be implicated. I must go to Yanan Prefecture, where men are needed: there I can rest and settle.” Shi Jin spoke to his father and it was agreed that Wang Jin must stay until they had prepared a farewell feast. They presented him two rolls of silk and one hundred taels of silver.48 When he left, Shi Jin told one of his men to carry Wang Jin’s baggage and accompany him for ten li,49 where they parted with tears.

Drill Instructor Wang again shouldered up his load and mother and son traveled along the road to the western pass.

We will now leave Wang Jin and return with Shi Jin to his home. There he continued his drill. In the middle of the night he would practice for two hours, and during the day, ride his horse outside the village. In less than six months Shi Jin’s father died. He prepared a coffin and engaged Buddhist monks to conduct the usual memorial services for seven days. He also asked a Taoist priest to erect an altar; repeat the funeral services; pray for the safe passage of the soul to heaven; attend at the altar for ten days and select a lucky and fortunate time for the funeral and burial.

About four hundred members of the Shi clan came to the funeral in white mourning clothes and they buried the dead in the ancestral graveyard in the hills to the west of the village. After this there was no one at home to manage the property as Shi Jin only wanted to practice fencing.

Three or four months after the death of the farmer on a hot day in the sixth month Shi Jin was idling away his time. He placed a bedstead outside on the threshing floor, in the shadow of a willow tree, and took rest. A breeze came from the fir trees just opposite. He was enjoying the cool breeze, when all at once he saw a man stealthily spying. He shouted, “What are you doing, and who is there looking round this place?” As he said he rose and went to behind a tree to get a better view. He recognized that that man was Li Ji, the rabbit hunter. Shi Jin called, “Li Ji, what are you looking for in my village? Have you come as a spy?”

Li Ji stepped forward and said “Yes, sir, I want to find a man named Qiu Yilang to drink wine with him, but seeing you taking a siesta I dared not intrude.”

“Did you not previously come here selling game—and did I not pay you liberally? So why have you not been here lately with your game. You might think that I had no money.” Li Ji replied, “That’s not the case. Just now there is no game and therefore I did not come.”

“Stupid talk,” said Shi Jin. “Shaohua is a mountain of vast expanse and I do not believe that neither deer nor hare can be found there.” Li Ji answered, “You do not know that there is a band of robbers on the mountain, where they have erected a stronghold. They have collected about seven hundred armed men and over a hundred horses. The chief is a man named Zhu Wu, nicknamed “Intuitve Strategist,” and the second in command is Chen Da, nicknamed “Leaping Tiger,” the third in command is Yang Chun, nicknamed “White-speckled Snake.” These three leaders take to robbing houses; they have been officially denounced in Huayin County, and a reward of three thousand strings of cash has been offered for their capture. But who dare go to arrest them? Even we hunters dare not go to the mountain to shoot game, so how could I come here to sell it.”

“I have heard of those robbers,” said Shi Jin, “but did not know that they have made so much trouble. This being the case the people certainly dislike them. Li Ji, if you have any game in the future bring it here.”

Shi Jin thought this matter over. “These men will certainly come here to plunder.” He then told the farm laborers to select two fat buffaloes and kill them; and bring the best brew of the village. He sent invitations to all the Shi clan and upon arrival they seated themselves in order of seniority. Wine was served and Shi Jin then spoke to the audience, saying, “I have heard there are three robbers on Mount Shaohua, who have altogether about seven hundred followers, and they rob the people with violence. Sooner or later they will come and pillage our village. I now invite you here to discuss this matter—so that we may be prepared when they come. I will have a rattle sounded at my house when they arrive; and upon hearing this you must bring your arms to defend the village. If your families are attacked we will defend you.” All of them are agreed to what Shi Jin said. They then returned home and prepared their weapons. Shi Jin repaired the defenses of the village.

At Mount Shaohua, the three bandit chiefs were now holding a conference. The leader, Zhu Wu, the “Intuitve Strategist,” was a Dingyuan County man and could fight with a sword in each hand. He was clever in arranging plans for an attack. The second chief Chen Da was a Yecheng County man, and was skillful in the use of a steel lance while the third Yang Chun was a Xieliang County man and used a long sword.

When they were discussing, Zhu Wu said, “I have heard that there is a reward offered for anyone who can capture us, and I am really afraid that when the soldiers come we shall have a severe strugge with them; but we are short of food so we must take some for use here. We must collect a large stock of food on the mountain ready for the time when the soldiers attack us.”

Chen Da the “Leaping Tiger” agreed. “Let us go to Huayin County, and ask the people there to lend us some grain and we can see what they say.”

Yang Chun the “White-speckled Snake” remarked, “There is no need to go there; it would be better to go to Pucheng County. The chances are ten thousand to one, we shall not fail there.” Chen Da said, “There are very few people in Pucheng and very little money or grain there. It will be better to attack Huayin County. The folk there are wealthy and have abundance of grain.”

Yang Chun replied, “Elder brother, you do not know that if we attack Huayin County we must pass the village of the Shi clan where that dangerous fellow Shi Jin with nine dragons lives, and we must not provoke him. He will not let us pass.”

Chen Da said, “Younger brother, what a coward you are, you are even afraid to pass a village, so what can you do when you are opposed by soldiers?”

“Elder brother, you should not despise Shi Jin. He is hard to deal with.”

“I have already heard that he is very brave and is extremely capable,” said Zhu Wu. “Younger brother, do not go.”

Chen Da would not change his mind, and said, “You two, shut up! Do not increase the other man’s determination and reduce our own courage. He is only one man and has not three heads or six arms.” He then called to his armed followers, “Get my horse ready! I will attack the Shi clan village, and afterwards seize Huayin County.”

Zhu Wu remonstrated with him but Chen Da did not listen. He put on his armor and mounted his horse: he then mustered about one hundred fifty armed brigands down the mountain and went with gongs and drums sounding.

The brigands’ approach was duly reported to Shi Jin, who instantly had the rattles sounded and quickly all the men assembled in arms. Shi Jin wore a towel round his head and was equipped with red mail over an embroidered black wadded coat. On his feet were embroidered green boots and round his waist a leather belt. In front and behind were round metal plates. He carried a bow with quiver full of arrows. In his hand he held a double-edged sword with three sharp spikes at the end and four holes with eight rings attached. He was mounted on a roan horse. Before him were forty of his retainers while behind were ninety of the farm laborers. With a combined shout they all moved toward the north of the village. The brigands halted. Shi Jin saw that Chen Da was in front of his men, wearing a red cap with a concave top, and with iron-armor covered with gilt, wadded red clothing, thick army boots and a plaited waistbelt. He rode a white horse and carried a three-pronged halberd which was about ten feet long. As the two leaders met, the men raised a loud shout. Chen Da paid his respect to Shi Jin by rising in his stirrups.

Shi Jin spoke in a loud voice, “You kill people, set places on fire, rob with violence; your crimes fill the heavens, and you are all deserving of death. You ought to have ears; how dare you come to pouch the tiger’s litter!”

Chen Da replied from his horse, “We are short of grain at our mountain fortress and are going to borrow some grain at Huayin County. We have taken a short cut by passing your honorable village—but we will not disturb even a blade of grass here. Let us pass and on our return we will thank you.” “Nonsense,” replied Shi Jin, “I am the head of this village and I must arrest you. If I don’t do so, I shall be implicated and the magistrate will blame me.” “Within the four seas all men are brothers, so let us use your road,” said Chen Da.

“What meaningless talk!” said Shi Jin. “Even if I am willing, but there is one who is not, so you must have his consent before you pass.”

“You are a hero. Tell me whom I must ask?” replied Chen Da.

“You can ask the sword in my hand and if it is willing then you can pass,” said Shi Jin.

Chen Da spoke angrily, “You are trying to deceive me, but you should not be presumptuous.” Shi Jin was also angry, and brandishing his sword, he rode forward to fight.

Chen Da whipped his horse, thrust forward his three-pronged halberd, and advanced to meet Shi Jin. They fought for some time. Then Shi Jin thought of a plan, and purposely allowed Chen Da to thrust in his halberd, he parried the blow by moving to one side, as Chen Da lunged forward. With a dexterous turn of the arm he caught Chen Da and pulled him out of his saddle, then he took hold of his plaited waistbelt and threw him to the ground. The horse galloped away like a gust of wind. Shi Jin told his servants to bind Chen Da, and the band of robbers scattered. Shi Jin returned to his house and bound Chen Da to a pillar in the hall to wait until he captured the other robber chiefs so as to send them together to the magistrate’s yamen to be dealt with. He gave wine to all the villagers and then dismissed them. Everyone applauded him and said, “You, sir, are a hero.”

We will not say anything more about the feast at the Shi clan village, but let us consider the anxiety of Zhu Wu and Yang Chun in their mountain stronghold. They had sent many soldiers to make inquiries, and on the way they met the men returning with the riderless horse. The defeated men said, “Bad luck! Our elder brother’s life is in danger.”

Upon reaching the stronghold they gave details of the fight, saying, “Shi Jin was a great hero.”

“Shall we risk our lives in rescuing him?” asked Yang Chun.

“We cannot do that,” replied Zhu Wu. “The disaster is of his own making. How can we defeat Shi Jin? I have a desperate plan but if we fail to rescue Chen Da, that will be the end of all of us.” Zhu Wu whispered his plan. Yang Chun said, “Good! Let us go without delay.”

Now in the village Shi Jin’s anger had not abated when a laborer rushed in and reported that the other robber chiefs had come. Shi Jin said, “I will send them both to the magistrate. Bring me my horse.”

The rattle was sounded and the same crowd of armed men assembled. He was just on the point of leaving when he saw the two robber chiefs walking to the gate. They both knelt down and cried. Shi Jin dismounted and shouted, “What have you to say?” Zhu Wu crying, answered, “We shall be arrested and tried, and cannot live as bandits on the mountains. Once we took a vow that we would die on the same day. Although we have not the heroism of Guan Gong, Zhang Fei, and Liu Bei, yet we have the same objects in mind.50 Today our brother Chen Da did not listen to our advice, but he unintentionally offended your dignity. You, hero, have already arrested him at your noble village. As we have no alternative we come only to beseech you to put us to death together. We hope that you, hero, will send us three men to the magistrate, and ask for a reward. We swear that we shall not feel sorrow at that; we are entirely in your hands and wish to die.”

Shi Jin heard this, and thought that they were brave. If he sent them to the magistrate and requested a reward, then all heroes would be ashamed of him for not being a brave man. The ancients said, “The tiger does not eat the flesh of a tiger.” So he said to these men, “Come inside.” They were not afraid and followed Shi Jin into the hall, where they knelt and asked him to bind them. Shi Jin told them several times to rise but they declined to do so. He thought, “Intelligent people like intelligence in others, and so good folk recognize the good in others.” He said, “As your bravery is so great, I cannot send you to the magistrate. How will it be if I release Chen Da?”

“We do not wish to implicate you,” said Zhu Wu. “It will be better for you to ask for the reward.” “How can I do that?” said Shi Jin. “Are you willing to eat my food and drink wine?”

“We are not even afraid of death so how can we be afraid of meat and drink?”

Shi Jin was much pleased at this, and released Chen Da. He invited all three to dine with him, and they expressed their thanks for his great benevolence. After drinking several cups of wine they departed. As a token of thankfulness the three brigand chiefs got together thirty taels of gold in ingots, which was sent in a dark moonless night by two of their men, to Shi Jin. When the bandits arrived at the farm Shi Jin came to the gate to inquire what they wanted, and they presented the gold and asked him to accept the same. At first Shi Jin refused to accept the gift but he saw that the intention was good so he accepted the gold, and then ordered a servant to give the men refreshments. When they departed he gave them some small pieces of silver for themselves. A fortnight afterwards the bandit leaders took a big jewel which they had looted sometime before, and sent it to Shi Jin who accepted it. He saw that they were grateful for his mercy so he had three gowns made with red embroidered silk and sent these with some wine and three fat roasted sheep to the brigands, and his steward Wang the Fourth was put in charge of this matter. Shi Jin and the brigands became very friendly, and were frequently giving each other presents.

On the fifteenth day of the eighth month, Shi Jin sent Wang the Fourth with an invitation for a banquet and the bandit chiefs wrote a reply, accepting the invitation.51 After a few cups of wine Wang the Fourth left, but on his way down the mountain he met some brigands who took him to an inn where he drank more wine. When he left, he was slightly drunk, and staggered along. After going about three li he came to a forest which he entered and lay down in the long grass to sleep. The hunter, Li Ji came to that spot to look for hares, and recognizing Wang the Fourth he attempted to raise him up, but he could not do so. In doing this some silver fell out from Wang the Fourth’s girdle which made Li Ji meditate, “This man is drunk, but where did the money come from? Why should I not take some?” It was now the opportunity for the baneful forces to come together, so unexpected events ensued naturally. He unloosened Wang the Fourth’s girdle, and upon shaking it, the sealed reply from the bandits fell out. He opened that, and recognized the names of the brigand chiefs. “Here is my luck. A fortune teller told me that I should have great fortune and here it is. A reward is offered for their arrest, and perhaps I can get something for this letter also.” So he took the silver, and the letter, and went to report the matter to the officials at Huayin County.

When Wang the Fourth awoke that evening, the moon was shining through the trees. He found his girdle in the grass, but the silver and the letter were missing. He felt greatly annoyed and thought the matter over. He thought if he said that he had lost the letter Shi Jin would probably dismiss him, so at last he decided to say that the invitation had been accepted, but there was no written reply. He told this to Shi Jin who asked why he had been so long in returning, and he explained that the bandits had pressed him to stay, drinking wine for half the night.

On the day appointed Shi Jin had a banquet prepared, and the three bandit leaders duly arrived with about five armed men. They took their seats. But when they had drunk much wine there was a loud noise and much torchlight outside the gate. Shi Jin was startled, and jumping up told the brigands to keep their seats while he went to see what had happened. He told the servants not to open the gate, and putting a ladder against the wall he looked over. He saw that the county police inspector was on a horse, two constables and about four hundred soldiers surrounded the farm. He returned and told the bandits that the soldiers had come evidently to arrest them.

Men concealed in the deep of reeds,

Prepared their boats among the lotus leaves.

Soldiers sent to capture them,

Did only make them intimate.

We will now relate how the brigands made their escape.

Footnote

44 A Prefecture was a level of government incorporating a number of counties, centered on a prefectural capital city or town. As a general rule, the use of “prefecture” or “county” in this edition will refer to the geographic area, which may include that administrative level’s city or town eg “Yanan Prefecture.” A specific reference to the city or town itself will use the specific name, eg “Yanan.”

45 A common appellation, indicating a person’s place in the family hierarchy, in this case, the second son of the Gao family.

46 A Yamen was the office of a government official or bureaucracy.

47 The Chinese currency of a square holed coin.

48 “Tael” was an English expression of the Chinese measure of weight, the “liang,” approximating an ounce.

49 Li is the Chinese distance equivalent of a mile.

50 The heroes from the historical novel Romance of the Three Kingdoms, who swore an oath of brotherhood.

51 The Mid-Autumn Festival falls on the 15th day of the 8th month in the Chinese lunar calendar.