第四十四回

第四十四回 锦豹子小径逢戴宗 病关索长街遇石秀

诗曰：

豪杰遭逢信有因，连环钩锁共相寻。

矢言一德情坚石，歃血同心义断金。

七国争雄今继迹，五胡云扰振遗音。

汉廷将相由屠钓，莫惜梁山错用心。

话说当时李逵挺着朴刀来斗李云。两个就官路旁边斗了五七合，不分胜败。朱富便把朴刀去中间隔开，叫道：“且不要斗！都听我说。”二人都住了手。朱富道：“师父听说：小弟多蒙错爱，指教枪棒，非不感恩。只是我哥哥朱贵，见在梁山泊做了头领，今奉及时雨宋公明将令，着他来照管李大哥。不争被你拿了解官，教我哥哥如何回去见得宋公明？因此做下这场手段。却才李大哥乘势要坏师父，却是小弟不肯容他下手，只杀了这些土兵。我们本待去得远了，猜道师父回去不得，必来赶我。小弟又想师父日常恩念，特地在此相等。师父，你是个精细的人，有甚不省得？如今杀害了许多人性命，又走了黑旋风，你怎生回去见得知县？你若回去时，定吃官司责怪，又无人来相救。不如今日和我们一同上山，投奔宋公明入了伙。未知尊意若何？”李云寻思了半晌，便道：“贤弟，只怕他那里不肯收留我么。”朱富笑道：“师父，你如何不知山东及时雨大名，专一招贤纳士，结识天下好汉。”李云听了，叹口气道：“闪得我有家难奔，有国难投！只喜得我又无妻小，不怕吃官司拿了。只得随你们去休！”李逵便笑道：“我哥哥，你何不早说！”便和李云剪拂了。这李云不曾娶老小，亦无家当，当下三人合作一处，来赶车子。半路上朱贵接见了，大喜。四筹好汉跟了车仗便行，于路无话。看看相近梁山泊，路上又迎着马麟、郑天寿，都相见了，说道：“晁、宋二头领又差我两个下山来探听你消息。今既见了，我两个先去回报。”当下二人先上山来报知。

次日，四筹好汉带了朱富家眷，都至梁山泊大寨聚义厅来。朱贵向前，先引李云拜见晁、宋二头领，相见众好汉，说道：“此人是沂水县都头，姓李名云，绰号青眼虎。”次后，朱贵引朱富参拜众位，说道：“这是舍弟朱富，绰号笑面虎。”都相见了。李逵诉说取娘至沂岭，被虎吃了，因此杀了四虎。又说假李逵剪径被杀一事，众人大笑。晁、宋二人笑道：“被你杀了四个猛虎，今日山寨里又添的两个活虎上山，正宜作庆。”众多好汉大喜，便教杀羊宰牛，做筵席庆贺。两个新到头领，晁盖便叫去左边白胜上首坐定。

吴用道：“近来山寨十分兴旺，感得四方豪杰望风而来，皆是二公之德也，众兄弟之福也。然是如此，还请朱贵仍复掌管山东酒店，替回石勇、侯健。朱富老小另拨一所房舍住居。目今山寨事业大了，非同旧日，可再设三处酒馆，专一探听吉凶事情，往来义士上山。如若朝廷调遣官兵捕盗，可以报知如何进兵，好做准备。西山地面广阔，可令童威、童猛弟兄两个带领十数个火伴那里开店。令李立带十数个火家，去山南边那里开店。令石勇也带十来个伴当，去北山那里开店。仍复都要设立水亭、号箭、接应船只，但有缓急军情，飞捷报来。山前设置三座大关，专令杜迁总行守把，但有一应委差，不许调遣，早晚不得擅离。”又令陶宗旺把总监工，掘港汊，修水路，开河道，整理宛子城垣，筑彼山前大路。他原是庄户出身，修理久惯。令蒋敬掌管库藏仓廒，支出纳入，积万累千，精通书算。令萧让设置寨中寨外、山上山下、三关把隘许多行移关防文约、大小头领号数。烦令金大坚刊造雕刻一应兵符、印信、牌面等项。令侯健管造衣袍铠甲、五方旗号等件。令李云监造梁山泊一应房舍厅堂。令马麟监管修造大小战船。令宋万、白胜去金沙滩下寨。令王矮虎、郑天寿去鸭嘴滩下寨。令穆春、朱富管收山寨钱粮。吕方、郭盛于聚义厅两边耳房安歇。令宋清专管筵宴。都分拨已定，筵席了三日，不在话下。梁山泊自此无事，每日只是操练人马，教演武艺。水寨里头领都教习驾船赴水，船上厮杀，亦不在话下。

忽一日，宋江与晁盖、吴学究并众人闲话道：“我等弟兄众位，今日都共聚大义，只有公孙一清不见回还。我想他回蓟州探母参师，期约百日便回，今经日久，不知信息，莫非昧信不来？可烦戴宗兄弟与我去走一遭，探听他虚实下落，如何不来。”戴宗道：“愿往。”宋江大喜，说道：“只有贤弟去得快，旬日便知信息。”

当日戴宗别了众人，次早打扮做个承局，下山去了。但见：

虽为走卒，不占军班。一生常作异乡人，两腿欠他行路债。寻常结束，青衫皂带系其身；赶趁程途，信笼文书常爱护。监司出入，皂花藤杖挂宣牌；帅府行军，夹棒黄旗书令字。家居千里，日不移时便到厅阶；紧急军情，时不过刻不违宣限。早向山东餐黍米，晚来魏府吃鹅梨。

且说戴宗自离了梁山泊，取路望蓟州来，把四个甲马拴在腿上，作起神行法来，于路只吃些素茶素食。在路行了三日，来到沂水县界，只闻人说道：“前日走了黑旋风，伤了好多人，连累了都头李云，不知去向，至今无获处。”戴宗听了冷笑。

当日正行之次，只见远远地转过一个人来。看见了戴宗走得快，那人立住了脚，便叫一声：“神行太保。”戴宗听得，回过脸来定睛看时，见山坡下小径边立着一个大汉。怎生模样？但见：

白范阳笠子，如银盘拖着红缨；皂团领战衣，似翡翠围成锦绣。搭膊丝绦缠裹肚，腿护膝衬鞋。沙鱼鞘斜插腰刀，笔管枪银丝缠杆。那人头圆耳大，鼻直口方。生得眉秀目疏，腰细膀阔。远看毒龙离石洞，近观飞虎下云端。

戴宗听得那人叫了一声“神行太保”，连忙回转身来问道：“壮士素不曾拜识，如何呼唤贱名？”那汉慌忙答道：“足下真乃是神行太保！”撇了枪，便拜倒在地。戴宗连忙扶住答礼，问道：“足下高姓大名？”那汉道：“小弟姓杨名林，祖贯彰德府人氏。多在绿林丛中安身，江湖上都叫小弟做锦豹子杨林。数月之前，路上酒肆里遇见公孙胜先生，同在店中吃酒相会，备说梁山泊晁、宋二公招贤纳士，如此义气，写下一封书，教小弟自来投大寨入伙。只是不敢擅进，诚恐不纳。因此心意未定，进退蹉跎，不曾敢来。外日[1]公孙先生所说，李家道口旧有朱贵开酒店在彼，招引上山入伙的人。山寨里亦有一个招贤飞报头领，唤做神行太保戴院长，日行八百里路。今见兄长行步非常，因此唤一声看，不想果是仁兄。正是天幸，无心而得遇！”戴宗道：“小可特为公孙胜先生回蓟州去杳无音信，今奉晁、宋二公将令，差遣来蓟州探听消息，寻取公孙胜还寨，不期却遇足下相会。”杨林道：“小弟虽是彰德府人，这蓟州管下地方州郡都走遍了，倘若不弃，就随侍兄长同走一遭。”戴宗道：“若得足下作伴，实是万幸。寻得公孙先生见了，一同回梁山泊去未迟。”杨林见说了，大喜，就邀住戴宗，结拜为兄。

戴宗收了甲马，两个缓缓而行，到晚就投村店歇了。杨林置酒请戴宗，戴宗道：“我使神行法，不敢食荤。”两个只买些素饭相待，结义为兄弟。过了一夜，次日早起，打火吃了早饭，收拾动身。杨林便问道：“兄长使神行法走路，小弟如何走得上？只怕同行不得。”戴宗笑道：“我的神行法也带得人同走。我把两个甲马拴在你腿上，作起法来，也和我一般走得快，要行便行，要住便住。不然，你如何赶得我走！”杨林道：“只恐小弟是凡胎浊骨的人，比不得兄长神体。”戴宗道：“不妨。是我的这法，诸人都带得，作用了时，和我一般行。只是我自吃素，并无妨碍。”当时取两个甲马，替杨林缚在腿上，戴宗也只缚了两个。作用了神行法，吹口气在上面，两个轻轻地走了去，要紧要慢，都随着戴宗行。两个于路闲说些江湖上的事，虽只见缓缓而行，正不知走了多少路。

两个行到巳牌时分，前面来到一个去处，四围都是高山，中间一条驿路。杨林却自认得，便对戴宗说道：“哥哥，此间地名唤做饮马川。前面兀那高山里常常有大伙在内，近日不知如何。因为山势秀丽，水绕峰环，以此唤做饮马川。”两个正来到山边过，只听得忽地一声锣响，战鼓乱鸣，走出一二百小喽啰，拦住去路。当先拥着两筹好汉，各挺一条朴刀，大喝道：“行人须住脚！你两个是甚么鸟人？那里去的？会事的快把买路钱来，饶你两个性命！”杨林笑道：“哥哥，你看我结果那呆鸟！”拈着笔管枪，抢将入去。那两个头领见他来得凶，走近前来看了，上首的那个便叫道：“且不要动手！兀的不是杨林哥哥么？”杨林见了，却才认得。上首那个大汉提着军器向前剪拂了，便唤下首这个长汉都来施礼罢。杨林请过戴宗，说道：“兄长且来和这两个弟兄相见。”戴宗问道：“这两个壮士是谁？如何认得贤弟？”杨林便道：“这个认得小弟的好汉，他原是盖天军襄阳府人氏，姓邓名飞，为他双睛红赤，江湖上人都唤他做火眼狻猊[2]。能使一条铁链，人皆近他不得。多曾合伙，一别五年，不曾见面，谁想今日他却在这里相遇着。”邓飞便问道：“杨林哥哥，这位兄长是谁？必不是等闲人也。”杨林道：“我这仁兄是梁山泊好汉中神行太保戴宗的便是。”邓飞听了道：“莫不是江州的戴院长，能行八百里路程的？”戴宗答道：“小可便是。”那两个头领慌忙剪拂道：“平日只听得说大名，不想今日在此拜识尊颜。”戴宗看那邓飞时，生得如何？有诗为证：

原是襄阳关扑汉，江湖飘荡不思归。

多餐人肉双睛赤，火眼狻猊是邓飞。

当下二位壮士施礼罢，戴宗又问道：“这位好汉高姓大名？”邓飞道：“我这兄弟姓孟名康，祖贯是真定州人氏，善造大小船只。原因押送花石纲，要造大船，嗔怪这提调官催并责罚，他把本官一时杀了，弃家逃走在江湖上绿林中安身，已得年久。因他长大白净，人都见他一身好肉体，起他一个绰号，叫他做玉幡竿孟康。”戴宗见说大喜。看那孟康时，怎生模样？有诗为证：

能攀强弩冲头阵，善造艨艟越大江。

真州妙手楼船匠，白玉幡竿是孟康。

当时戴宗见了二人，心中甚喜。四筹好汉说话间，杨林问道：“二位兄弟在此聚义几时了？”邓飞道：“不瞒兄长说，也有一年之上。只近半载之前，在这直西地面上遇着一个哥哥，姓裴名宣，祖贯是京兆府人氏。原是本府六案孔目出身，极好刀笔。为人忠直聪明，分毫不肯苟且，本处人都称他铁面孔目。亦会拈枪使棒，舞剑轮刀，智勇足备。为因朝廷除将一员贪滥知府到来，把他寻事刺配沙门岛，从我这里经过，被我们杀了防送公人，救了他在此安身，聚集得三二百人。这裴宣极使得好双剑，让他年长，见在山寨中为主。烦请二位义士同往小寨相会片时。”便叫小喽啰牵过马来，请戴宗、杨林都上了马，四骑马望山寨来。行不多时，早到寨前，下了马。裴宣已有人报知，连忙出寨降阶而接。戴宗、杨林看裴宣时，果然好表人物，生得肉白肥胖，四平八稳，心中暗喜。怎见得？有诗为证：

问事时智巧心灵，落笔处神号鬼哭。

心平恕毫发无私，称裴宣铁面孔目。

当下裴宣出寨来，降阶迎接，邀请二位义士到聚义厅上。俱各讲礼罢，谦让戴宗正面坐了，次是裴宣、杨林、邓飞、孟康，五筹好汉，宾主相待，坐定筵宴。当日大吹大擂饮酒，一团和气。看官听说：这也都是地煞星之数，时节到来，天幸自然义聚相逢。

众人吃酒中间，戴宗在筵上说起晁、宋二头领招贤纳士，结识天下四方豪杰，待人接物一团和气，仗义疏财，许多好处；众头领同心协力；八百里梁山泊如此雄壮，中间宛子城、蓼儿洼，四下里都是茫茫烟水；更有许多军马，何愁官兵到来。只管把言语说他三个。裴宣回道：“小弟寨中，也有三百来人马，财赋亦有十馀辆车子，粮食草料不算。倘若仁兄不弃微贱时，引荐于大寨入伙，愿听号令效力。未知尊意若何？”戴宗大喜道：“晁、宋二公待人接纳，并无异心。更得诸公相助，如锦上添花。若果有此心，可便收拾下行李，待小可和杨林去蓟州见了公孙胜先生回来，那时一同扮做官军，星夜前往。”众人大喜。

酒至半酣，移去后山断金亭上看那饮马川景致吃酒。端的好个饮马川。但见：

一望茫茫野水，周回隐隐青山。几多老树映残霞，数片采云飘远岫。荒田寂寞，应无稚子看牛；古渡凄凉，那得奚人饮马。只好强人安寨栅，偏宜好汉展旌旗。

戴宗看了这饮马川一派山景，喝采道：“好山好水，真乃秀丽！你等二位如何来得到此？”邓飞道：“原是几个不成材小厮们在这里屯扎，后被我两个来夺了这个去处。”众皆大笑。五筹好汉吃得大醉。裴宣起身舞剑饮酒，戴宗称赞不已。至晚各自回寨内安歇。次日，戴宗定要和杨林下山，三位好汉苦留不住，相送到山下作别，自回寨里来收拾行装，整理动身，不在话下。

且说戴宗和杨林离了饮马川山寨，在路晓行夜住，早来到蓟州城外，投个客店安歇了。杨林便道：“哥哥，我想公孙胜先生是个出家人，必是山间林下村落中住，不在城里。”戴宗道：“说得是。”当时二人先到城外，一到处询问公孙胜先生下落消息，并无一个人晓得他。住了一日，次早起来，又去远近村坊街市访问人时，亦无一个认得，两个又回店中歇了。第三日，戴宗道：“敢怕城中有人认得他？”当日和杨林却入蓟州城里来寻他。两个寻问老成人时，都道：“不认得。敢不是城中人？只怕是外县名山大刹居住。”

杨林正行到一个大街，只见远远地一派鼓乐，迎将一个人来。戴宗、杨林立在街上看时，前面两个小牢子，一个驮着许多礼物花红，一个捧着若干段子采缯之物，后面青罗伞下罩着一个押狱刽子。那人生得好表人物，露出蓝靛般一身花绣，两眉入鬓，凤眼朝天，淡黄面皮，细细有几根髭髯。那人祖贯是河南人氏，姓杨名雄，因跟一个叔伯哥哥来蓟州做知府，一向流落在此。续后一个新任知府却认得他，因此就参他做两院押狱兼充市曹行刑刽子。因为他一身好武艺，面貌微黄，以此人都称他做病关索杨雄。有一首《临江仙》词，单道着杨雄好处。但见：

两臂雕青镌嫩玉，头巾环眼嵌玲珑。鬓边爱插翠芙蓉。背心书刽字，衫串染猩红。 问事厅前逞手段，行刑处刀利如风。微黄面色细眉浓。人称病关索，好汉是杨雄。

当时杨雄在中间走着，背后一个小牢子擎着鬼头靶法刀。原来才去市心里决刑了回来，众相识与他挂红贺喜，送回家去，正从戴宗、杨林面前迎将过来，一簇人在路口拦住了把盏。只见侧首小路里又撞出七八个军汉来，为头的一个叫做踢杀羊张保。这汉是蓟州守御城池的军，带着这几个都是城里城外时常讨闲钱使的破落户汉子，官司累次奈何他不改。为见杨雄原是外乡人来蓟州，有人惧怕他，因此不怯气。当日正见他赏赐得许多段匹，带了这几个没头神，吃得半醉，却好赶来要惹他。又见众人拦住他在路口把盏，那张保拨开众人，钻过面前叫道：“节级拜揖。”杨雄道：“大哥来吃酒。”张保道：“我不要酒吃，我特来向你借百十贯钱使用。”杨雄道：“虽是我认得大哥，不曾钱财相交，如何问我借钱？”张保道：“你今日诈得百姓许多财物，如何不借我些？”杨雄应道：“这都是别人与我做好看的，怎么是诈得百姓的？你来放刁！我与你军卫有司，各无统属！”张保不应，便叫众人向前一哄，先把花红段子都抢了去。杨雄叫道：“这厮们无礼！”却待向前打那抢物事的人，被张保劈胸带住，背后又是两个来拖住了手。那几个都动起手来，小牢子们各自回避了。杨雄被张保并两个军汉逼住了，施展不得，只得忍气，解拆不开。

正闹中间，只见一条大汉挑着一担柴来，看见众人逼住杨雄动掸不得。那大汉看了，路见不平，便放下柴担，分开众人，前来劝道：“你们因甚打这节级？”那张保睁起眼来喝道：“你这打脊饿不死冻不杀的乞丐，敢来多管！”那大汉大怒，焦躁起来，将张保劈头只一提，一跤翻在地。那几个帮闲的见了，却待要来动手，早被那大汉一拳一个，都打的东倒西歪。杨雄方才脱得身，把出本事来施展动，一对拳头撺梭相似，那几个破落户，都打翻在地。张保尴尬不是头，扒将起来，一直走了。杨雄忿怒，大踏步赶将去。张保跟着抢包袱的走，杨雄在后面追着，赶转小巷去了。那大汉兀自不歇手，在路口寻人厮打。戴宗、杨林看了，暗暗地喝采道：“端的是好汉！此乃路见不平，拔刀相助，真壮士也！”有诗为证：

路见不平真可怒，拔刀相助是英雄。

那堪石秀真豪杰，慷慨相投入伙中。

当时戴宗、杨林向前邀住，劝道：“好汉且看我二人薄面，且罢休了。”两个把他扶劝到一个巷内。杨林替他挑了柴担，戴宗挽住那汉手，邀入酒店里来。杨林放下柴担，同到阁儿里面。那大汉叉手道：“感蒙二位大哥解救了小人之祸。”戴宗道：“我弟兄两个也是外乡人，因见壮士仗义之心，只恐足下拳手太重，误伤人命，特地做这个出场。请壮士酌三杯，到此相会，结义则个！”那大汉道：“多得二位仁兄解拆小人这场，却又蒙赐酒相待，实是不当。”杨林便道：“四海之内，皆兄弟也，有何伤乎！且请坐。”戴宗相让，那汉那里肯僭上。戴宗、杨林一带坐了，那汉坐于对席。叫过酒保，杨林身边取出一两银子来，把与酒保道：“不必来问，但有下饭，只顾买来与我们吃了，一发总算。”酒保接了银子去，一面铺下菜蔬果品案酒之类。

三人饮过数杯，戴宗问道：“壮士高姓大名？贵乡何处？”那汉答道：“小人姓石名秀，祖贯是金陵建康府人氏。自小学得些枪棒在身，一生执意，路见不平，但要去相助，人都唤小弟作拚命三郎。因随叔父来外乡贩羊马卖，不想叔父半途亡故，消折了本钱，还乡不得，流落在此蓟州，卖柴度日。既蒙拜识，当以实告。”戴宗道：“小可两个因来此间干事，得遇壮士。如此豪杰，流落在此卖柴，怎能勾发迹？不若挺身江湖上去，做个下半世快乐也好。”石秀道：“小人只会使些枪棒，别无甚本事，如何能勾发达快乐！”戴宗道：“这般时节认不得真！一者朝廷不明，二乃奸臣闭塞。小可一个薄识，因一口气，去投奔了梁山泊宋公明入伙。如今论秤分金银，换套穿衣服，只等朝廷招安了，早晚都做个官人。”

石秀叹口气道：“小人便要去，也无门路可进。”戴宗道：“壮士若肯去时，小可当以相荐。”石秀道：“小人不敢拜问二位官人贵姓？”戴宗道：“小可姓戴名宗，兄弟姓杨名林。”石秀道：“江湖上听的说个江州神行太保，莫非正是足下？”戴宗道：“小可便是。”叫杨林身边包袱内取一锭十两银子，送与石秀做本钱。石秀不敢受，再三谦让，方才收了，作谢二人，藏在身边，才知道他是梁山泊神行太保。正欲要和戴宗、杨林说些心腹之话，投托入伙，只听的外面有人寻问入来。三个看时，却是杨雄带领着二十馀人，都是做公的，赶入酒店里来。戴宗、杨林见人多，吃了一惊，闹哄里，两个慌忙走了。

石秀起身迎住道：“节级，那里去来？”杨雄便道：“大哥，何处不寻你，却在这里饮酒。我一时被那厮封住了手，施展不得，多蒙足下气力救了我这场便宜。一时间只顾赶了那厮，去夺他包袱，却撇了足下。这伙兄弟听得我厮打，都来相助，依还夺得抢去的花红段匹回来，只寻足下不见。却才有人说道：‘两个客人劝他去酒店里吃酒。’因此才知得，特地寻将来。”石秀道：“却才是两个外乡客人邀在这里酌三杯，说些闲话，不知节级呼唤。”杨雄大喜，便问道：“足下高姓大名？贵乡何处？因何在此？”石秀答道：“小人姓石名秀，祖贯是金陵建康府人氏。平生性直，路见不平，便要去舍命相护，以此都唤小人做拚命三郎。因随叔父来此地贩卖羊马，不期叔父半途亡故，消折了本钱，流落在此蓟州卖柴度日。”杨雄看石秀时，果然好个壮士，生得上下相等。有首《西江月》词，单道着石秀好处。但见：

身似山中猛虎，性如火上浇油。心雄胆大有机谋，到处逢人搭救。 全仗一条杆棒，只凭两个拳头。掀天声价满皇州，拚命三郎石秀。

当下杨雄又问石秀道：“却才和足下一处饮酒的客人，何处去了？”石秀道：“他两个见节级带人进来，只道相闹，以此去了。”杨雄道：“恁地时，先唤酒保取两瓮酒来，大碗叫众人一家三碗，吃了去，明日却得来相会。”众人都吃了酒，自去散了。杨雄便道：“石家三郎，你休见外。想你此间必无亲眷，我今日就结义你做个弟兄，如何？”石秀见说大喜，便说道：“不敢动问节级贵庚？”杨雄道：“我今年二十九岁。”石秀道：“小弟今年二十八岁。就请节级坐，受小弟拜为哥哥。”石秀拜了四拜。杨雄大喜，便叫酒保：“安排饮馔酒果来！我和兄弟今日吃个尽醉方休。”

正饮酒之间，只见杨雄的丈人潘公，带领了五七个人，直寻到酒店里来。杨雄见了，起身道：“泰山来做甚么？”潘公道：“我听得你和人厮打，特地寻将来。”杨雄道：“多谢这个兄弟救护了我，打得张保那厮见影也害怕。我如今就认义了石家兄弟做我兄弟。”潘公叫：“好，好！且叫这几个弟兄吃碗酒了去。”杨雄便叫酒保讨酒来，众人一家三碗吃了去。便教潘公中间坐了，杨雄对席上首，石秀下首，三人坐下，酒保自来斟酒。潘公见了石秀这等英雄长大，心中甚喜，便说道：“我女婿得你做个兄弟相帮，也不枉了！公门中出入，谁敢欺负他！”又问道：“叔叔原曾做甚买卖道路？”石秀道：“先父原是操刀屠户。”潘公道：“叔叔曾省得杀牲口的勾当么？”石秀笑道：“自小吃屠家饭，如何不省得宰杀牲口。”潘公道：“老汉原是屠户出身，只因年老做不得了。止有这个女婿，他又自一身入官府差遣，因此撇了这行衣饭。”三个酒至半酣，计算了酒钱，石秀将这担柴也都准折了。三人取路回来，杨雄入得门便叫：“大嫂，快来与这叔叔相见。”只见布帘里面应道：“大哥，你有甚叔叔？”杨雄道：“你且休问，先出来相见。”布帘起处，摇摇摆摆走出那个妇人来。生得如何？石秀看时，但见：

黑鬒鬒鬓儿，细弯弯眉儿，光溜溜眼儿，香喷喷口儿，直隆隆鼻儿，红乳乳腮儿，粉莹莹脸儿，轻袅袅身儿，玉纤纤手儿，一捻捻腰儿，软脓脓肚儿，翘尖尖脚儿，花簇簇鞋儿，肉奶奶胸儿，白生生腿儿。更有一件窄湫湫、紧、红鲜鲜、黑稠稠，正不知是甚么东西。

有诗为证：

二八佳人体似酥，腰间仗剑斩愚夫。

虽然不见人头落，暗里教君骨髓枯。

原来那妇人是七月七日生的，因此小字唤做巧云。先嫁了一个吏员，是蓟州人，唤做王押司，两年前身故了，方才晚嫁得杨雄，未及一年夫妻。石秀见那妇人出来，慌忙向前施礼道：“嫂嫂请坐。”石秀便拜。那妇人道：“奴家年轻，如何敢受礼！”杨雄道：“这个是我今日新认义的兄弟。你是嫂嫂，可受半礼。”当下石秀推金山，倒玉柱，拜了四拜。那妇人还了两礼，请入来里面坐地。收拾一间空房，教叔叔安歇，不在话下。过了一宿。话休絮烦。次日，杨雄自出去应当官府，分付家中道：“安排石秀衣服巾帻。”客店内有些行李、包裹，都教去取来杨雄家里安放了。

却说戴宗、杨林自酒店里看见那伙做公的入来寻访石秀，闹哄里两个自走了，回到城外客店中歇了。次日，又去寻问公孙胜。两日，绝无人认得，又不知他下落住处。两个商量了，且回去，要便再来寻访。当日收拾了行李，便起身离了蓟州，自投饮马川来，和裴宣、邓飞、孟康一行人马，扮作官军，星夜望梁山泊来。戴宗要见他功劳，又纠合得许多人马上山。

这段话下来，接着再说：有杨雄的丈人潘公，自和石秀商量要开屠宰作坊。潘公道：“我家后门头是一条断路小巷，又有一间空房在后面，那里井水又便，可做作坊。就教叔叔做房安歇在里面，又好照管。”石秀见了，也喜端的便益[3]。潘公再寻了个旧时识熟副手，“只央叔叔掌管帐目。”石秀应承了，叫了副手，便把大青大绿妆点起肉案子、水盆、砧头，打磨了许多刀仗，整顿了肉案，打并了作坊猪圈，赶上十数个肥猪，选个吉日开张肉铺。众邻舍亲戚都来挂红贺喜，吃了一两日酒。杨雄一家得石秀开了店，都欢喜，自此无话。一向潘公、石秀自做买卖，不觉光阴迅速，又早过了两个月有馀。时值秋残冬到，石秀里里外外身上，都换了新衣穿着。

石秀一日早起五更，出外县买猪，三日了方回家来，只见铺店不开。却到家里看时，肉案、砧头也都收过了，刀仗家火亦藏过了。石秀是个精细的人，看在肚里，便省得了，自心中忖道：“常言：人无千日好，花无百日红。哥哥自出外去当官，不管家事，必然嫂嫂见我做了这些衣裳，一定背后有说话。又见我两日不回，必有人搬口弄舌，想是疑心，不做买卖。我休等他言语出来，我自先辞了回乡去休。自古道：那得长远心的人。”石秀已把猪赶在圈里，却去房中换了脚手，收拾了包裹、行李，细细写了一本清帐，从后面入来。潘公已安排下些素酒食，请石秀坐定吃酒。潘公道：“叔叔远出劳心，自赶猪来辛苦。”石秀道：“礼当。丈丈[4]且收过了这本明白帐目，若上面有半点私心，天地诛灭！”潘公道：“叔叔何故出此言？并不曾有个甚事。”石秀道：“小人离乡五七年了，今欲要回家去走一遭，特地交还帐目。今晚辞了哥哥，明早便行。”潘公听了，大笑起来道：“叔叔差唉！你且住，听老汉说。”

那老子言无数句，话不一席，有分教：报恩壮士提三尺，破戒沙门丧九泉。毕竟潘公对石秀说出甚言语来，且听下回分解。

[1] 外日——往日，前些天。

[2] 狻猊（suān　ní）—— 狮子。

[3] 便益——方便。

[4] 丈丈——宋时对老者的尊称。

CHAPTER 43. The Gay Leopard Meets Dai Zong on a Narrow Road; the Sick Guan Suo Meets Shi Xiu on a Big Street

LI KUI and Inspector Li Yun fought for about seven bouts, without either gaining an advantage. Zhu Fu at last also took a halberd and rushing between the two stopped the fighting. “No more fighting!” he said, “listen to me! Teacher! I am much obliged to you for your instructions, and shall always think of repaying you for favors received. My brother Zhu Gui received orders from Song Jiang, the commander-in-chief, at Liangshan Marsh to come here to help Li Kui. If you should arrest Li Kui and send him to prison how could my brother face Song Jiang if he had not helped Li Kui to escape? I am responsible for the plan to get you to drink the drugged wine. Our elder brother wanted to kill you, but I interposed and saved your life. We thought that you would pursue us as you would not care to return to the yamen without obtaining your revenge. But when I remembered what favors you had bestowed on me in the past I decided to stay here and speak to you. Teacher, you are an intelligent man and will know how difficult it will be for you to explain to the magistrate how your policemen were killed and the prisoner escaped. You will undoubtedly be tried and nobody will help you. Would it not be better if you come with us to Liangshan Marsh and there join our band? What do you think of that?”

Inspector Li Yun thought the matter over for some time and at last said, “I am afraid that they will not allow me to join their band.”

Zhu Fu laughed at this question. “Teacher, have you not heard the reputation of Song Jiang who is famous for welcoming and receiving heroes from all quarters?”

Inspector Li Yun sighed, “I am homeless and without a place of refuge. I, however, have neither wife nor child to be arrested. I will go with you.”

Li Kui laughed. “But, elder brother, why didn’t you say this before?” He then exchanged salutations. All three men then pursued the cart of Zhu Gui, which they met halfway. They journeyed to Liangshan Marsh, and upon arriving there Li Yun and Zhu Fu were introduced to the leaders by Zhu Gui who mentioned their nicknames, “Blue Eyed Tiger” and “Laughing Tiger.” Li Kui then told them of his adventures and of the death of his mother and Song Jiang laughing said, “You are a wonderful fellow. You killed four tigers and have now brought two living tigers to our stronghold.” Everybody was pleased at the news, and a feast was arranged to celebrate the occasion.

Wu Yong spoke, “Our affairs have recently been very prosperous and we must have a great reputation everywhere. Great heroes have come here from all quarters because of the great virtue of our two chiefs, Chao Gai and Song Jiang, and also because they have heard of our great happiness. I propose that we establish three more inns in the surrounding country so that we can spy on travelers, and also look out for any more heroes who may pass this way. They can also inform us of any movement of troops so that we shall not be taken by surprise. On the west side there is a very wide area where we can well have an inn in charge of Tong Wei and Tong Meng with about ten men. An inn can be established on the road to the south, in charge of Li Li, with about ten men. Shi Yong and ten more men can start an inn on the north road. We must arrange boats and signaling arrows. We must also establish three barriers on those roads for our outposts, and we can place Du Qian in charge of them. We must also place a number of men under Tao Zongwang to deepen the creeks and waterways, and repair the roads in the surrounding area. He knows how to undertake that kind of work. Our granaries and storerooms must be kept in order by Jiang Jing. Xiao Rang can have charge of all our means of communication between the various units. All engraving work on tablets etc. shall be in charge of Jian Dajian. All clothing armor, flags, etc shall be under the control of Hou Jian. Li Yun shall have charge of all building constructions. Ma Lin in charge of all boats, Song Wan and Bai Sheng to be stationed at our main entrance, the Jinsha Bank, while Wang Ying and Zheng Tianshou be stationed at our outpost at Yazui Beach, Mu Chun and Zhu Fu to be in charge of the treasury, Lu Fang and Guo Sheng to be in charge of the assembly hall; Song Qing to be in charge of all rations.” These appointments were agreed to, and arranging the details of all these staff matters took fully three days. Everything went smoothly at Liangshan Marsh and the men were drilled every day.

One day Song Jiang spoke to Chao Gai, Wu Yong, and other leaders, “Just now we are all assembled at this place in the cause of justice, but our Gongsun Sheng is absent. He went to Jizhou, Zhili province, to visit his mother and teacher and said that he would return in a hundred days. He has now been absent for a long time and yet no tidings has arrived concerning him. We had better send Dai Zong to make inquiries, and then we shall know what has happened.”

Dai Zong agreed to do this and early the following day he departed for Jizhou. On the way he took only tea and simple food without meat. On the third day he arrived at Yishui County, and there happened to hear a man say that Li Kui had escaped a few days ago after killing many policemen and that inspector Li Yun had disappeared, and nobody knew where he had gone to.

Dai Zong was amused at this. He had left the town, and was proceeding on his way when he saw a man in the distance approaching who was armed with a spear. The man seeing Dai Zong traveling at such a great speed called out Dai Zong’s nickname, “Divine Traveler!” Upon hearing this Dai Zong turned his head to look at the man. He saw a big man with a straight nose, and a big mouth, a handsome countenance, a slender waist but broad shoulders. Dai Zong retraced his steps and said to the man, “I do not seem to remember you and yet you have called my name.”

The man quickly replied, “You are the ‘Divine Traveler,’” and he thereupon kowtowed. Dai Zong returned the compliment and then asked, “What is your esteemed name?”

“I am Yang Lin of Zhangde Prefecture, Henan province. I am a highwayman and people call me ‘Gay Leopard.’ A few months ago I met Gongsun Sheng at an inn on the road, and he told me that at Liangshan Marsh there are many heroes who are keen for justice. He gave me a written introduction for Liangshan Marsh and urged me to join your band. I did not dare to go there straightway. He also informed me about the inn kept by Zhu Gui who was always looking out for suitable men. He also told me about you. I did not expect that Heaven would favor me and enable me to meet you like this today.”

“I have orders from Song Jiang to proceed to Jizhou, and find out what has become of Gongsun Sheng,” said Dai Zong, “and I never expected to meet you.”

“I know the Jizhou district very well,” replied Yang Lin, “and if you like I will accompany you to that place.”

“That will suit me very well,” said Dai Zong. “After I have found Gongsun Sheng we can proceed to Liangshan Marsh together.”

Yang Lin was much pleased at this. Dai Zong now took off his charmed puttees and they both traveled along the road at an ordinary pace. They stopped that evening at an inn, and there Dai Zong told Yang Lin that he was a vegetarian. Yang Lin agreed to eat the same food. The following morning when they had started off Yang Lin said, “I am afraid that I am only holding you back, because I cannot travel at your speed. Would it not be better if we each went our own way?”

“I can fasten two of my charmed puttees on your legs,” said Dai Zong, “and then we can both travel quickly.”

“I am only a common person,” said Yang Lin, “and am afraid that I could not equal your skill in rapid locomotion.”

“Never mind!” said Dai Zong, “I have a means whereby any man can travel with me. I myself am a vegetarian but that will not be any obstacle to the other people.” He then took two of his charmed puttees and put them on Yang Lin’s legs. He had two on his own legs also. He then recited a spell breathed on the puttees, and they both started off. Dai Zong controlled the speed at which they traveled whether slow or fast. They conversed as they traveled and did not notice how far they had gone. About 10 A.M. they came to a post station which was surrounded by hills. Yang Lin knew the place as Yinma Valley, and told Dai Zong that the hill in front was generally infested with brigands, but he did not know whether there were any there now. The hills had a fine appearance with many pointed peaks, and streams winding in all directions. Just as they reached the foot of the mountain they heard gongs and drums being beaten and saw their way obstructed by a body of about one hundred men. In front were two big men armed with swords, who called out, “Halt! Who the hell are you and where are you going? If you pay our road toll we will spare your lives.”

Yang Lin laughed and said to Dai Zong, “Elder brother, you can now watch me kill those pricks.” Seizing his spear he advanced. The two men noticed the fierce look of Yang Lin and one called out, “No need for fighting! Are you not Yang Lin?”

Yang Lin stood still as he recognized them. The men now advanced and saluted. Yang Lin beckoned Dai Zong to approach and introduced them to each other. “This is Deng Fei, of Xiangyang Prefecture, who is nicknamed ‘Fiery Eyed Beast.’ He is skilled in the use of a chain, and in fight nobody can get near him. We used to be in the same band but I have not seen him for five years. I never expected to meet him in this place.”

Deng Fei asked Yang Lin who his friend was as he was evidently no ordinary person.

Yang Lin introduced Dai Zong, and after the usual compliments he then introduced the second man. “This is Meng Kang of Zhending Prefecture, Zhili province, and he is a boat builder. Once a commander-in-chief was worrying him about the work and he killed the man and then sought refuge in the mountains, and lived as a bandit. Because of his great size people call him ‘Flagstaff.’”

Dai Zong was much pleased and asked, “How long have you two gentlemen been doing business at this delightful spot?”

“I will tell you the truth,” replied Deng Fei. “We have been here for more than a year. About six months ago we met on the west side of this place a man named Pei Xuan, a Jingzhao Prefecture man, who had been an official clerk and used to write out excellent official indictments in this division. He was well known as an upright official and could not be tampered with, and so he gained the nickname of ‘Iron Faced Clerk.’ He was both wise and brave. A very covetous Prefect was however appointed to this Prefecture and made false accusations and banished Pei Xuan to Shamen Island. On the way the escort passed this place, and we attacked them, killed most of the men and rescued Pei Xuan. We now have about three hundred men here. Pei Xuan is now our leader, and he is very skillful with two swords, one in each hand. We request you two gentlemen to come with us to our stronghold where we will introduce you to our leader.” He then ordered horses for Dai Zong and Yang Lin and the party soon reached the stronghold. Pei Xuan had already been informed by messenger of the newcomers and he met them at the entrance. He was a fine type of man and had a very dignified appearance. After the usual introductions and salutations he invited them to come into the main hall where he asked Dai Zong to take his seat facing him with Yang Lin and the others at the sides. A feast was arranged for that evening and during same Dai Zong gave free accounts of the power of the bandits at Liangshan Marsh, and eventually suggested that they should join them.

“Here we have about five hundred men, and three hundred horses, plenty of food and treasures. But if you do not disdain our humble establishment you might introduce us to your leaders and we might be of some use to you,” said Pei Xuan.

“Our two leaders, Chao Gai and Song Jiang, would treat you well, as they are keen on having heroes like you in their band,” replied Dai Zong. “If you go it will add brilliance to our present splendor. At present I am on my way to Jizhou Prefecture to find one of our leaders Gongsun Sheng, and upon my return journey I will call here, and if you will be ready we can all depart together to Liangshan Marsh.”

They were all pleased with this proposal, and continued with their feasting and drinking.

The next day Dai Zong and Yang Lin went on their way, and the bandits began to make preparations for their early departure to Liangshan Marsh.

Dai Zong and Yang Lin soon reached Jizhou Prefecture and upon entering an inn there Yang Lin said, “As Gongsun Sheng is a keen Taoist moralist it is very probable that he is staying in some secluded spot in the mountains or forests and not in this town.”

Dai Zong agreed and they left the inn, and went outside the town. They traveled in the surrounding country and continually inquired for Gongsun Sheng, but nobody had heard of him. The next day they extended their journey, but again without any result.

On the third day of their wanderings Dai Zong said, “Perhaps there will be somebody in the town who knows him. Let us go there.” They made inquiries in the town that day, but without success. As they were going along the main street, however, they saw a procession with music. In front were two jailers carrying presents and rolls of silks and at the rear was a large umbrella of blue silk under which walked an executioner. The latter was well dressed in blue silk. His eyebrows were long and his beautiful eyes were tilted upwards. His skin was light brown and his mustache was scanty.

He was a Henan province man, named Yang Xiong, and his cousin had been Prefect of Jizhou Prefecture. The new Prefect knew Yang Xiong and had appointed him superintendent of two prisons and also chief executioner. He was skilled in military exercises, and because he had a yellow skin people called him “Sick Guan Suo” (Guan Suo being the name of a strong man of Tang dynasty). Behind Yang Xiong in the procession was the executioner carrying a sword. An execution had just been carried out in the town at the crossroad, and on his way back to his home many people had congratulated him. He had to stop in many places on the street and drink wine with his numerous friends. Just as the procession reached them Yang Lin and Dai Zong saw a band of about eight men emerge from a side street under the leadership of a man called Zhang Bao whose nickname was the “Goat Kicker.” This man was in command of the city guard, but the men with him were a gang of rowdies who lived by demanding money from all classes of people both in the town and outside. The officials had failed to suppress their depredations. Many people were afraid of Yang Xiong, but Zhang Bao was not of the number. Knowing that Yang Xiong would have received many rolls of silk on way Zhang Bao had got these rowdies together in order to create a disturbance on the street. Yang Xiong had stopped to drink wine, and Zhang Bao pressed his way through the crowd and said to him, “Congratulations!”

Yang Xiong returned the salute and replied, “Brother, please join me with wine.”

“I did not come for a drink,” said Zhang Bao, “but to borrow a hundred strings of cash from you.”

“Although I know you,” replied Yang Xiong, “I do not remember having been very intimate with you so why should I lend you money?”

“Today you have fraudulently taken valuables from a great many people so why should you not lend me some money?” asked Zhang Bao.

“These things were duly presented to me as gifts by my admirers,” said Yang Xiong. “So why do you say they were fraudulently taken from people? You are a military man whereas I am in charge of the prisons so that we have nothing to do with each other, and you have no claim on me.”

Zhang Bao did not attempt to reply to this, but turning round told the rowdies to seize the rolls of silk. Yang Xiong protested, saying “You have no manners.” He was going to strike the rowdise but was seized hold of by Zhang Bao, but two of the rowdies grabbed hold of his arms. Several men advanced in threatening attitudes, and Yang Xiong’s men bolted upon seeing that Yang Xiong could not move, and also had to submit to the indignities. A man in the crowd carrying a load of firewood, however, jumped forward to assist Yang Xiong. He called out, “Why do you beat this official like this?”

Zhang Bao stared at the interrupter and said, “Beggars should mind their own business. This has nothing to do with you.” The man was enraged at this insult, and seizing hold of Zhang Bao’s hair threw him to the ground. The rowdies came to the rescue of Zhang Bao, but the man fought them with his fists—striking on all sides. This had taken men from holding Yang Xiong, and he, freeing himself, also joined in the fight. The rowdies were soon knocked down, and Zhang Bao seeing the position made his escape. Yang Xiong was now very angry, and pursued Zhang Bao. The men with the booty were in front, and when they turned into an alley Zhang Bao followed them with Yang Xiong running after him.

The man who had changed the position kept on fighting the rowdies who were left behind. Dai Zong nodded to Yang Lin and said, “What a fine man! He draws his sword to help another in trouble on the road.” The two advanced and spoke to the man, “Listen to us! There has now been enough fighting.” They conducted the man into an alley close by, where they found an inn. Yang Lin had carried in the man’s load of firewood.

After the usual salutations Dai Zong said, “We are quite strangers here, but we witnessed your chivalrous action, and being afraid that you might kill one of the men we intervened. Please drink wine with us, and let us become intimate friends.”

“I am much obliged to you, gentlemen, for amicably settling that affair,” replied the man, “and many thanks for your invitation.”

They all sat down. Yang Lin summoned the waiter, and giving him a tael of silver told him to serve whatever food was available. This was soon placed on the table with wine, and answering a question the guest stated, “My name is Shi Xiu, and I am a Nanjing man. I have had some training in military exercises, and I love to help people on the road who are in difficulties. Because of this people call me ‘Desperado.’ I went with my uncle on a business trip, but he died on the way. I went on with the business, but lost all the money so that I could not go back. Therefore I stayed here, and eke out a livelihood by selling firewood. I tell you all this because of your helping me in that matter on the street.”

“We are on business here,” said Dai Zong, “and are pleased to meet such a chivalrous hero as you. You merely sell firewood here so how can you hope to become wealthy? Would it not be better if you became a brigand and enjoyed life a little?”

“I am only skilled in the use of stick,” said Shi Xiu, “but as I have no other ability how can I improve my position and enjoy life?”

“You need not say you have no other ability,” said Dai Zong. “It is only too true that the government is corrupt and the officials are traitorous. I had a friend who through temper got into trouble, but he joined the bandits at Liangshan Marsh where he now has good clothing and plenty of money. When government affairs are put in order he will undoubtedly be recalled and receive a good post.”

Shi Xiu sighed, “I would like to go, but I do not see how it could be done.”

“If you want to go I could introduce you to the bandits.”

“I dare not ask the names of you two gentlemen,” said Shi Xiu.

Dai Zong disclosed their names, and offered Shi Xiu ten taels of silver which however the latter accepted only after much pressing. Just then they heard men outside and looking round they saw Yang Xiong with about twenty policemen. Dai Zong and Yang Lin were afraid of the police, and made their escape.

Shi Xiu went forward, and asked Yang Xiong where he was going. The latter said, “Brother, I have been looking for you everywhere. Why did you come in here to drink wine? When I was held up by Zhang Bao and his gang, I could not have got free had you not intervened for which I am much obliged to you. I went to arrest Zhang Bao, and get my presents back and so had to abandon you for the nonce. These men all came to my assistance, and when I had recovered all the stolen things I came to look for you, but could not find you. I however heard that you had come here with two men so I came here to look for you.”

“I just came in here with two strangers to drink wine, and I did not think you would be looking for me.”

Yang Xiong asked for his name, etc. and Shi Xiu gave him the information, and also his life’s short history which we have just read.

Yang Xiong then invited all the men to drink three cups of wine, and this having been done they all departed.

“I think that you have no relatives in this town,” said Yang Xiong, “and I therefore suggest that we become sworn brothers.”

Shi Xiu asked for his honorable age and upon learning that he was twenty-nine, he said, “Well, I am only twenty-eight, so I must ask you to be seated, and receive my kowtow and salutations.” This was done—Shi Xiu giving four kowtows. Yang Xiong was much pleased at this and ordered the waiter to bring more wine. He said, “Younger brother, we will celebrate this by getting drunk.”

While they were drinking wine Yang Xiong’s father-in-law named Pan came in with about five men, “What do you want, sir?” asked Yang Xiong.

“I heard that you had had a fight on the street,” said Old Pan, “and therefore I came to find you and help you.”

“My younger brother here came to my assistance,” said Yang Xiong, “and we beat our assailant Zhang Bao so that he would run away upon seeing our shadows. Just now I have become the sworn brother of this gentleman, Shi Xiu.”

“That is splendid,” said Old Pan, “when my men have had a drink they will depart.” The men were served with three cups of wine each, and then left. Old Pan then took his seat between the two friends.

“I am much pleased that you have become a sworn brother of my son-in-law,” said Pan. “Having your assistance he will fittingly be an employee in the yamen and nobody will dare try to deceive him. What business are you engaged in, may I ask?”

“My father was a butcher,” said Shi Xiu.

“And do you follow the same occupation?” asked Old Pan.

“As a boy I, of course, got to know all about the trade,”said Shi Xiu laughingly.

“I followed the same trade,” said Old Pan, “until my son-in-law here got a position in the yamen when, of course, I had to give up that trade.”

When they had drunk some more wine together Yang Xiong paid the bill, and they took their departure, Shi Xiu shouldering his load of firewood. Upon reaching the door of Yang Xiong’s house he called out, “Wife, come and be introduced to my newly sworn brother.”

A voice inside the curtain asked, “Who is this new sworn brother?”

“You need not ask questions,” said Yang Xiong; “you can come and see for yourself.”

The curtain was raised and a woman stepped forth. She had been born on the 7th day of the seventh lunar month, and therefore had the name of Qiaoyun or “Clever Clouds” (the seventh month is called the “clever month”). She had first married an official clerk called Wang, who had died after two years of married life. Her second husband was Yang Xiong and they had been married almost a year.

Shi Xiu saluted her, but she objected, “I am much younger than you, and cannot accept such marks of respect.”

“We have become sworn brothers today,” said Yang Xiong, “so that you are the elder brother’s wife, and therefore can receive at least half of these salutations.” Accordingly Shi Xiu kowtowed four times. The woman responded with two kowtows, and then invited them inside. She also prepared a spare room for Shi Xiu’s use.

We need not go into many details. The next day Yang Xiong before he left for his office in the yamen told his wife to see that Shi Xiu had whatever clothes he required.

When Dai Zong and Yang Lin had left Shi Xiu in the inn they went outside the town and found an inn there. The next day they continued their inquiries for Gongsun Sheng without any result. So they gave up their search, and returning to Yinma Valley they joined Pei Xuan and his company and started off with them for Liangshan Marsh where they were all duly introduced and placed on the strength.

Old Pan discussed with Shi Xiu the question of reestablishing a slaughterhouse. He said that behind his house there was an alley with a dead end and also an empty house. There was also a well, and he thought it a very suitable place for a slaughterhouse. Shi Xiu could live on the premises.

Shi Xiu was much pleased at the proposal, and agreed at once. Old Pan made inquiries and soon found suitable assistants. He suggested that Shi Xiu should keep the accounts. They soon purchased the stock in trade, knives, benches, etc. and after selecting a lucky day they started business. All the neighbors and relatives came to take part in the feasting on the opening day.

Matters proceeded smoothly for a long time. One day during the winter Shi Xiu went into the country to buy pigs, and upon his return three days later he found that the butchery was closed. Upon going inside he discovered that all the tools and fittings had been removed. He thought, “There is a saying, ‘Men cannot be good for a thousand days, and flowers cannot bloom for a hundred days.’ Yang Xiong has to go to his office every day, and cannot look after the home affairs. His wife must have been talking behind my back, and finding fault because I have been away for three days. He has suspected me, and has closed the business. I will not trouble to even ask for an explanation, but will just return to my old home.” So he made up his accounts, changed his clothes, packed up his own things, and entered by the back door. He found that Old Pan had prepared a vegetarian feast in readiness for Shi Xiu’s return. Old Pan said, “You have been a long way, and must be very tired.”

“Sir, that’s my duty,” replied Shi Xiu, “Now I have squared up the account book, and everything is in order. If there is any error may Heaven and Earth destroy me.”

“Why do you talk like this?” asked Old Pan. “There is no necessity for it.”

“I have not been home for nearly seven years,” said Shi Xiu, “and as I must now go I have squared up all the accounts.”

Old Pan laughed loudly and said, “You are mistaken. Please listen to me.”

Revenge is sought, so toll the knell,

And send an unfaithful monk to hell.