第六十四回

第六十四回 呼延灼夜月赚关胜 宋公明雪天擒索超

古风一首：

古来豪杰称三国，西蜀东吴魏之北。

卧龙才智谁能如，吕蒙英锐真奇特。

中间虎将无人比，勇力超群独关羽。

蔡阳斩首付一笑，芳声千古传青史。

岂知世乱英雄亡，后代贤良有孙子。

梁山兵困北京危，万姓荒荒如乱蚁。

梁公请救赴京师，玉殿丝纶传睿旨。

前军后合狼虎威，左文右武生光辉。

中军主将是关胜，昂昂志气烟云飞。

黄金铠甲寒光迸，水银盔展兜鍪重。

面如重枣美须髯，锦征袍上蟠双凤。

衬衫淡染鹅儿黄，雀靴雕弓金镞莹。

紫骝骏马猛如龙，玉勒锦鞍双兽并。

宝刀灿灿霜雪光，冠世英雄不可当。

除此威风真莫比，重生义勇武安王。

话说这篇古风，单道蒲东关胜，这人惯使口大刀，英雄盖世，义勇过人。当日辞了太师，统领着一万五千人马，分为三队，离了东京，望梁山泊来。

话分两头。且说宋江与同众将，每日北京攻打城池不下。李成、闻达那里敢出对阵，索超箭疮又未平复，亦无人出战。宋江见攻打城子不破，心中纳闷：离山已久，不见输赢。是夜在中军帐里闷坐，点上灯烛，取出玄女天书，正看之间，猛然想起围城已久，不见有救军接应，戴宗回去，又不见来，默然觉得神思恍惚，寝食不安，便叫小校请军师来计议。吴用到得中军帐内，与宋江商量道：“我等众军围许多时，如何杳无救军来到？城中又不敢出战。眼见的梁中书使人去京师告急，他丈人蔡太师必然有救军到来，中间必有良将。倘用围魏救赵之计，且不来解此处之危，反去取我梁山大寨，此是必然之理，兄长不可不虑。我等先着军士收拾，未可都退。”正说之间，只见神行太保戴宗到来，报说：“东京蔡太师拜请关菩萨玄孙蒲东郡大刀关胜，引一彪军马飞奔梁山泊来。寨中头领主张不定，请兄长、军师早早收兵回来，且解山寨之难。”吴用道：“虽然如此，不可急还。今夜晚间，先教步军前行，留下两支军马，就飞虎峪两边埋伏。城中知道我等退军，必然追赶，若不如此，我兵先乱。”宋江道：“军师言之极当。”传令便差小李广花荣，引五百军兵去飞虎峪左边埋伏；豹子头林冲，引五百军兵去飞虎峪右边埋伏。再叫双鞭呼延灼，引二十五骑马军，带着凌振，将了风火等炮，离城十数里远近，但见追兵过来，随即施放号炮，令其两下伏兵齐去并杀追兵。一面传令前队退兵，倒拖旌旗，不鸣战鼓，却如雨散云行，遇兵勿战，自然退回。步军队里，半夜起来，次第而行。直至次日巳牌前后，方才鸣金收军。

城上望见宋江军马，手拖旗幡，肩担刀斧，人起还山之意，马嘶归寨之声，纷纷滚滚，拔寨都起。城上看了仔细，报与梁中书知道：“梁山泊军马，今日尽数收兵，都回去了。”梁中书听的，随即唤李成、闻达商议。闻达道：“眼见的是京师救军去取他梁山泊，这厮们恐失巢穴，慌忙归去。可以乘势追杀，必擒宋江。”说犹未了，城外报马到来，赍东京文字，约会引兵去取贼巢；他若退兵，可以立追。梁中书便叫李成、闻达各带一支军马，从东西两路追赶宋江军马。

且说宋江引兵退回，见城中调兵追赶，舍命便走，直退到飞虎峪那边。只听的背后火炮齐响。李成、闻达吃了一惊，勒住战马看时，后面只见旗幡对刺[1]，战鼓乱鸣。李成、闻达火急回军，左手下撞出小李广花荣，右手下撞出豹子头林冲，各引五百军马，两边杀来。措手不及，知道中了奸计，火速回军。前面又撞出呼延灼，引着一支马军，大杀一阵，杀的李成、闻达金盔倒纳，衣甲飘零，退入城中，闭门不出。宋江军马次第而回，早转近梁山泊边，却好迎着丑郡马宣赞拦路。宋江约住军兵，权且下寨，暗地使人从偏僻小路，赴水上山报知，约会水陆军兵，两下救应。有诗为证：

宋江振旅暂回营，飞虎坡前暗伏兵。

杀得李成无处走，倒戈弃甲入京城。

且说水寨内头领船火儿张横，与兄弟浪里白跳张顺当时议定：“我和你弟兄两个，自来寨中，不曾建功，只看着别人夸能说会，倒受他气。如今蒲东大刀关胜，三路调军打我寨栅。不若我和你两个先去劫了他寨，捉拿关胜，立这件大功，众兄弟面上也好争口气。”张顺道：“哥哥，我和你只管的些水军，倘或不相救应，枉惹人耻笑。”张横道：“你若这般把细，何年月日能勾建功？你不去便罢，我今夜自去。”张顺苦谏不听。当夜张横点了小船五十馀只，每船上只有三五人，浑身都是软战，手执苦竹枪，各带蓼叶刀，趁着月光微明，寒露寂静，把小船直抵旱路。此时约有二更时分。

却说关胜正在中军帐里点灯看书，有伏路小校悄悄来报：“芦花荡里，约有小船四五十只，人人各执长枪，尽去芦苇里面两边埋伏，不知何意，特来报知。”关胜听了，微微冷笑：“盗贼之徒，不足与吾对敌。”当时暗传号令，教众军俱各如此准备，“贼兵入寨，帐前一声锣响，四下各自捉人。”三军得令，各自潜伏。

且说张横将引三二百人，从芦苇中间藏踪蹑迹，直到寨边，拔开鹿角，径奔中军，望见帐中灯烛荧煌，关胜手拈髭髯，坐看兵书。张横暗喜，手搦长枪，抢入帐房里来。傍边一声锣响，众军喊动，如天崩地塌，山倒江翻，吓的张横倒拖长枪，转身便走。四下里伏兵乱起，可怜会水张横，怎脱平川罗网，二三百人不曾走的一个，尽数被缚，推到帐前。关胜看了，笑骂：“无端草贼，小辈匹夫，安敢侮吾！”将张横陷车盛了，其馀者尽数监了，“直等捉了宋江，一并解上京师，不负宣赞举荐之意。”

不说关胜捉了张横，却说水寨内三阮头领，正在寨中商议，使人去宋江哥哥处听令，只见张顺到来报说：“我哥哥因不听小弟苦谏，去劫关胜营寨，不料被捉，囚车监了。”阮小七听了，叫将起来，说道：“我兄弟们同死同生，吉凶相救。你是他嫡亲兄弟，却怎地被人捉了，你不去救，怎见宋公明哥哥？我弟兄三个，自去救他。”张顺道：“为不曾得哥哥将令，却不敢轻动。”阮小七道：“若等将令来时，你哥哥吃他剁做八段！”阮小二、阮小五都道：“说的是。”张顺说他三个不过，只得依他。当夜四更，点起大小水寨头领，各驾船只一百馀只，一齐杀奔关胜寨来。岸上小军望见水面上战船如蚂蚁相似，都傍岸边，慌忙报知主帅。关胜笑道：“无见识贼奴，何足为虑！”随即唤首将附耳低言如此如此。且说三阮在前，张顺在后，呐声喊，抢入寨来，只见寨内枪刀竖立，旌旗不倒，并无一人。三阮大惊，转身便走。帐前一声锣响，左右两边马军步军，分作八路，簸箕掌，栲栳圈，重重叠叠围裹将来。张顺见不是头，扑同地先跳下水去。三阮夺路便走，急到的水边。后军赶上，挠钩齐下，套索飞来，把这活阎罗阮小七搭住，横拖倒拽捉去了。阮小二、阮小五、张顺，却得混江龙李俊带的童威、童猛死救回去。

不说阮小七被捉，囚在陷车之中，且说水军报上梁山泊来，刘唐便使张顺从水路里直到宋江寨中，报说这个消息。宋江便与吴用商议，怎生退的关胜。吴用道：“来日决战，且看胜败如何。”说犹未了，猛听得战鼓齐鸣，却是丑郡马宣赞部领三军直到大寨，宋江举众出迎。门旗开处，宣赞出马。怎生打扮？但见：

征袍穿蜀锦，铠甲露银花。金盔凤翅披肩，抹绿云靴护腿。马蹄荡起红尘，刀面平铺秋水。满空杀气从天降，一点朱缨滚地来。

宋江看了宣赞在门旗下勒战，便唤首将：“那个出马先拿这厮？”只见小李广花荣拍马持枪，直取宣赞。宣赞舞刀来迎，一来一往，一上一下，斗到十合，花荣卖个破绽，回马便走。宣赞赶来，花荣就了事环带住钢枪，拈弓取箭，侧坐雕鞍，轻舒猿臂，翻身一箭。宣赞听的弓弦响，却好箭来，把刀只一隔，铮地一声响，射在刀面上。花荣见一箭不中，再取第二枝箭，看的较近，望宣赞胸膛上射来。宣赞镫里藏身，又躲过了。宣赞见他弓箭高强，不敢追赶，霍然勒回马，跑回本阵。花荣见他不赶来，连忙便勒转马头，望宣赞赶来，又取第三枝箭，望得宣赞后心较近，再射一箭，只听得铛地一声响，却射在背后护心镜上。宣赞慌忙驰马入阵，便使人报与关胜。关胜得知，便唤小校快牵过战马来。那匹马头至尾长一丈，蹄至脊高八尺，浑身上下没一根杂毛，纯是火炭般赤，拴一副皮甲，束三条肚带。关胜全装披挂，绰刀上马，直临阵前，门旗开处，便乃出马。有《西江月》一首为证：

汉国功臣苗裔，三分良将玄孙。绣旗飘挂动天兵，金甲绿袍相称。 赤兔马腾腾紫雾，青龙刀凛凛寒冰。蒲东郡内产英雄，义勇大刀关胜。

宋江看了关胜一表非俗，与吴用暗暗地喝采，回头与众多良将道：“将军英雄，名不虚传！”说言未了，林冲忿怒，便道：“我等弟兄，自上梁山泊，大小五七十阵，未尝挫了锐气。军师何故灭自己威风！”说罢，便挺枪出马，直取关胜。关胜见了，大喝道：“水泊草寇，汝等怎敢背负朝廷！单要宋江与吾决战。”宋江在门旗下喝住林冲，纵马亲自出阵，欠身与关胜施礼，说道：“郓城小吏宋江，到此谨参，惟将军问罪。”关胜道：“汝为俗吏，安敢背叛朝廷？”宋江答道：“盖为朝廷不明，纵容奸臣当道，谗佞专权，设除滥官污吏，陷害天下百姓。宋江等替天行道，并无异心。”关胜大喝：“天兵到此，尚然抗拒，巧言令色，怎敢瞒吾！若不下马受降，着你粉骨碎身！”霹雳火秦明听得大怒，手舞狼牙棍，纵坐下马，直抢过来。关胜也纵马出迎，来斗秦明。林冲怕他夺了头功，猛可里飞抢过来，径奔关胜。三骑马向征尘影里，转灯般厮杀。宋江看了，恐伤关胜，便教鸣金收军。林冲、秦明回马阵前，说道：“正待擒捉这厮，兄长何故收军罢战？”宋江道：“贤弟，我等忠义自守，以强欺弱，非所愿也。纵使阵上捉他，此人不伏，亦乃惹人耻笑。吾看关胜英勇之将，世本忠臣，乃祖为神，若得此人上山，宋江情愿让位。”林冲、秦明都不喜欢。当日两边各自收兵。

且说关胜回到寨中，下马卸甲，心中暗忖道：“我力斗二将不过，看看输与他，宋江倒收了军马，不知主何意？”却教小军推出陷车中张横、阮小七过来，问道：“宋江是个郓城小吏，你这厮们如何伏他？”阮小七应道：“俺哥哥山东、河北驰名，都称做及时雨呼保义宋公明。你这厮不知礼义之人，如何省的！”关胜低头不语，且教推过陷车。当晚寨中纳闷，坐卧不安，走出中军，立观月色满天，霜华遍地，嗟叹不已。有伏路小校前来报说：“有个胡须将军，匹马单鞭，要见元帅。”关胜道：“你不问他是谁？”小校道：“他又没衣甲军器，并不肯说姓名，只言要见元帅。”关胜道：“既是如此，与我唤来。”没多时，来到帐中，拜见关胜。关胜看了，有些面熟，灯光之下略也认得，便问是谁。那人道：“乞退左右。”关胜道：“不妨。”那人道：“小将呼延灼的便是。先前曾与朝廷统领连环马军，征进梁山泊，谁想中贼奸计，失陷了军机，不能还乡。听得将军到来，不胜之喜。早间宋江在阵上，林冲、秦明待捉将军，宋江火急收军，诚恐伤犯足下。此人素有归顺之意，无奈众贼不从，暗与呼延灼商议，正要驱使众人归顺。将军若是听从，明日夜间，轻弓短箭，骑着快马，从小路直入贼寨，生擒林冲等寇，解赴京师，共立功勋。”关胜听罢大喜，请入帐，置酒相待。备说宋江专以忠义为主，不幸从贼无辜。二人递相剖露衷情，并无疑心。次日，宋江举众搦战。关胜与呼延灼商议：“今日可先赢首将，晚间可行此计。”有诗为证：

亡命呼延计最奇，单人匹马夜逃归。

阵前假意鞭黄信，钩起梁山旧是非。

且说呼延灼借副衣甲穿了，彼各上马，都到阵前。宋江见了，大骂呼延灼道：“我不曾亏负你半分，因何夤夜私去！”呼延灼回道：“汝等草寇，成何大事！”宋江便令镇三山黄信出马，仗丧门剑，驱坐下马，直奔呼延灼。两马相交，斗不到十合，呼延灼手起一鞭，把黄信打落马下。宋江阵上众军，抢出来扛了回去。关胜大喜，令大小三军一齐掩杀。呼延灼道：“不可追掩，恐吴用那厮广有神机，若还赶杀，恐贼有计。”关胜听了，火急收军，都回本寨，到中军帐里置酒相待，动问镇三山黄信之事。呼延灼道：“此人原是朝廷命官，青州都监，与秦明、花荣一时落草。今日先杀此贼，挫灭威风，今晚偷营，必然成事。”关胜大喜，传下将令，教宣赞、郝思文两路接应；自引五百马军，轻弓短箭，叫呼延灼引路。至夜二更起身，三更前后，直奔宋江寨中，炮响为号，里应外合，一齐进兵。是夜月光如昼。黄昏时候披挂已了，马摘鸾铃，人披软战，军卒衔枚疾走，一齐乘马。呼延灼当先引路，众人跟着。转过山径，约行了半个更次，前面撞见三五十个伏路小军，低声问道：“来的不是呼将军么？宋公明差我等在此迎接。”呼延灼喝道：“休言语，随在我马后走。”呼延灼纵马先行，关胜乘马在后。又转过一层山嘴，只见呼延灼把枪尖一指，远远地一碗红灯。关胜勒住马问道：“有红灯处是那里？”呼延灼道：“那里便是宋公明中军。”急催动人马。将近红灯，忽听得一声炮响，众军跟定关胜，杀奔前来。到红灯之下看时，不见一个；便唤呼延灼时，亦不见了。关胜大惊，知道中计，慌忙回马，听得四边山上，一齐鼓响锣鸣。正是慌不择路，众军各自逃生。关胜连忙回马时，只剩得数骑马军跟着。转出山嘴，又听得树林边脑后一声炮响，四下里挠钩齐出，把关胜拖下雕鞍，夺了刀马，卸去衣甲，前推后拥，拿投大寨里来。却说林冲、花荣自引一支军马截住郝思文，回头厮杀。月光之下，遥见郝思文怎生打扮？有《西江月》为证：

千丈凌云豪气，一团筋骨精神。横枪跃马荡征尘，四海英雄难近。 身着战袍锦绣，七星甲挂龙鳞。天丁元是郝思文，飞马当前出阵。

林冲大喝道：“你主将关胜中计被擒，你这无名小将，何不下马受缚！”郝思文大怒，直取林冲。二马相交，斗无数合，花荣挺枪助战。郝思文势力不加，回马便走，肋后撞出个女将一丈青扈三娘，撒起红绵套索，把郝思文拖下马来。步军向前一齐捉住，解投大寨。话分两处。这边秦明、孙立自引一支军马去捉宣赞，当路正逢此人。丑郡马宣赞怎生打扮？有《西江月》为证：

卷缩短黄须发，凹兜黑墨容颜。睁开怪眼似双环，鼻孔朝天仰见。 手内钢刀耀雪，护身铠甲连环。海骝赤马锦鞍鞯，郡马英雄宣赞。

当下宣赞出马，大骂：“草贼匹夫，当我者死，避我者生！”秦明大怒，跃马挥狼牙棍，直取宣赞。二马相交，约斗数合，孙立侧首过来。宣赞慌张，刀法不依古格，被秦明一棍搠下马来。三军齐喊一声，向前捉住。再有扑天雕李应引领大小军兵，抢奔关胜寨内来，先救了张横、阮小七并被擒水军人等，夺去一应粮草马匹，却去招安四下败残人马。

天晓，宋江会众上山。此时东方渐明，忠义堂上分开坐次，早把关胜、宣赞、郝思文分投解来。宋江见了，慌忙下堂，喝退军卒，亲解其缚，把关胜扶在正中交椅上，纳头便拜，叩首伏罪，说道：“亡命狂徒，冒犯虎威，望乞恕罪。”关胜连忙答礼，闭口无言，手足无措。呼延灼亦向前来伏罪道：“小可既蒙将令，不敢不依，万望将军免恕虚诳之罪。”关胜看了一般头领义气深重，回顾与宣赞、郝思文道：“我们被擒在此，所事若何？”二人答道：“并听将令。”关胜道：“无面还京，俺三人愿早赐一死。”宋江道：“何故发此言？将军倘蒙不弃微贱，一同替天行道。若是不肯，不敢苦留，只今便送回京。”关胜道：“人称忠义宋公明，话不虚传。今日我等有家难奔，有国难投，愿在帐下为一小卒。”宋江大喜。当日一面设筵庆贺，一边使人招安逃窜败军，又得了五七千人马。其馀各自四散。投降军内，有老幼者，随即给散银两，便放回家；一边差薛永赍书往蒲东，搬取关胜老小，都不在话下。

宋江正饮宴间，默然想起卢员外、石秀陷在北京，潸然泪下。吴用道：“兄长不必忧心，吴用自有措置。只过今晚，来日再起军兵，去打北京，必然成事。”关胜便起身说道：“小将无可报答不杀之罪，愿为前部。”宋江大喜。次日早晨传令，就教宣赞、郝思文拨回旧有军马，便为前部先锋；其馀原打北京头领，不缺一个。再差李俊、张顺将带水战盔甲随去，以次再望北京进发。

这里却说梁中书在城中，正与索超起病饮酒，只见探马报道：“关胜、宣赞、郝思文并众军马，俱被宋江捉去，已入伙了。梁山泊军马见今又到。”梁中书听得，唬得目瞪痴呆，手脚无措。只见索超禀复道：“前者中贼冷箭，今番且复此仇。”随即赏了索超，便教引本部人马，争先出城，前去迎敌。李成、闻达随后调军接应。其时正是仲冬天气，时候正冷，连日彤云密布，朔风乱吼。宋江兵到，索超直至飞虎峪下寨，次日引兵迎敌。宋江引前部吕方、郭盛，上高阜处看关胜厮杀。三通战鼓罢，关胜出阵。只见对面索超出马。怎生打扮？有诗为证：

生居河北最英雄，累与朝廷立大功。

双凤袍笼银叶铠，飞鱼袋插铁胎弓。

勇如袁达安齐国，壮若灵神劈华峰。

马上横担金蘸斧，索超名号急先锋。

当时索超见了关胜，却不认得。随征军卒说道：“这个来的便是新背反的大刀关胜。”索超听了，并不打话，直抢过来，径奔关胜。关胜也拍马舞刀来迎。两个斗不十合，李成正在中军，看见索超斧怯，战关胜不下，自舞双刀出阵，夹攻关胜。这边宣赞、郝思文见了，各持兵器前来助战，五骑搅做一块。宋江在高阜处看见，鞭梢一指，大军卷杀过去。李成军马大败亏输，杀得七断八绝，连夜退入城去，坚闭不出。宋江催兵直抵城下，扎住军马。

次日，索超亲引一支军马，出城冲突。吴用见了，便教军校迎敌戏战，他若追来，乘势便退。此时索超又得了这一阵，欢喜入城。当晚彤云四合，纷纷雪下，吴用已有计了。暗差步军去北京城外，靠山边河路狭处，掘成陷坑，上用土盖。是夜雪急风严，平明看时，约有二尺深雪。城上望见宋江军马，各有惧色，东西栅立不定。索超看了，便点三百军马，就时追出城来。宋江军马四散奔波而走。却教水军头领李俊、张顺身披软战，勒马横枪，前来迎敌。却才与索超交马，弃枪便走，特引索超奔陷坑边来。这里一边是路，一边是涧。李俊弃马跳入涧中去了，向着前面，口里叫道：“宋公明哥哥快走！”索超听了，不顾身体，飞马抢过阵来。山背后一声炮响，索超连人和马将下去。后面伏兵齐起，这索超便有三头六臂，也须七损八伤。正是：烂银深盖藏圈套，碎玉平铺作陷坑。毕竟急先锋索超性命如何，且听下回分解。

[1] 对刺——交叉。

CHAPTER 63. Huyan Zhuo Lures Guan Sheng in the Moonlight; Song Jiang Arrests Suo Chao in a Snowstorm

AT DAMING, the bandits attacked the town every day, but the government troops inside dared not sally forth for combat. Suo Chao had not yet recovered from the arrow wound, and could not take part in the fighting.

Song Jiang was disappointed at the delay in taking the town, and one night he was sitting in his tent reading by candlelight the Heavenly Books he had received from the Taoist Mystic Goddess, when his orderly entered and said that Wu Yong wished to see him.

When Wu Yong entered he said, “We have been besieging this town for a long time, and it is strange that no troops have come to relieve the town. We know that three horsemen left the town, and I expect they carried dispatches asking for help. As Grand Secretary Liang is son-in-law to Prime Minister Cai Jing the latter must send relief at once. But as no troops have arrived here it is possible that they have gone to Liangshan Marsh, and are adopting the military strategy as used in saving the Zhao by besieging the capital of the Wei. In that case, what shall we do? That is a possibility which we must not overlook. Would it not be better if we quietly sent some of our men back?”

Just then Dai Zong, the “Divine Traveler,” came in and spoke, “A large army of Imperial troops have arrived at Liangshan Marsh, in charge of General Guan Sheng. Our leaders there cannot decide as to what should be done, but they ask you at least to send some men back to relieve the assault.”

“Though this is the position,” said Wu Yong, “we must not send all our men back at once. Tonight we can order our foot soldiers to start off on the return journey. The cavalry must be left here, and be so divided up that the enemy will not notice our reduced numbers. If the imperial troops in the town find out our position they would renew their attacks with greater vigor.”

“What you say is quite true,” said Song Jiang. He gave orders that Hua Rong should take charge of five hundred men and encamp on the left of the Feihu Gully, while Lin Chong should encamp on the right-hand side of the same village with another five hundred men. Huyan Zhuo should post his artillery about three li from the town, and in case of any attack from the government troops he must at once open fire. All the other men must disperse, and return individually to Liangshan Marsh, and were not to fight with any Imperial troops they might meet on the way. This movement took place secretly in the night, and by about 10 A.M. the following morning most of the brigands were quietly making their way towards Liangshan Marsh.

But the troops inside the town discovered the movement of the brigands, and Grand Secretary Liang was duly informed of this, and he summoned his two Generals for a conference.

“I think that this movement indicates that the Imperial troops are attacking Liangshan Marsh,” said General Li Cheng, “and this has forced the brigands to withdraw their men from here. We must embrace this opportunity to attack them and capture Song Jiang.”

Just at this point a messenger arrived with a dispatch from the Prime Minister at the Eastern Capital stating that an attack was being made upon Liangshan Marsh, and that if the brigands withdrew from Daming Prefecture the troops in the town should immediately attack them. Grand Secretary Liang therefore ordered his generals to pursue the brigands.

The Imperial troops shortly afterwards left the town for an assault, but when they had only gone a short distance they were fired upon by artillery at their rear. At this Generals Wen Da and Li Cheng were surprised and called a halt. Looking back they saw numerous flags flying, and heard many drums and gongs sounded as though there were many brigands there. While they were still wondering what to do they were attacked from two sides by the brigands in charge of Hua Rong and Lin Chong. General Li Cheng was afraid of a trap, and gave orders for a retreat to the town. The attack was so fierce, however, that the troops were just able to reach the town gates in the nick of time.

The brigands who were on their way to Liangshan Marsh found their roads blocked by Imperial troops, and could not reach their destination. So Song Jiang collected them together in a secluded place, and sent a messenger secretly to Liangshan Marsh informing them where he was, and giving orders for a joint attack to be made from both sides.

At Liangshan Marsh Zhang Heng and Zhang Shun were in charge of a fort on the bank of the lake. When Song Jiang’s order was made known Zhang Heng spoke to his brother, “We have been here a long time, but so far have had no chance of doing anything. Now General Guan Sheng’s army is approaching by three roads to attack us. How would it be if we attack his camp and capture the General himself? Then our reputation would be much enhanced.”

“We are only in charge of this fort,” replied Zhang Shun, “and if we do not get help from the other leaders we should be in great disgrace if we lost.”

“If we are so circumspect, what day can we achieve a meritorious deed?” said Zhang Heng. “You need not take part in this. I will do it by myself this very night.”

Zhang Shun remonstrated with his brother without effect. That night Zhang Heng took fifty boats, with five men on each armed with bamboo poles, spears, and swords, and clad in light short clothing. It was a cold frosty night with very little moonlight. The boats were taken across the lake and the men disembarked.

It was about 11 P.M. and General Guan Sheng was reading a book in his tent. One of his scouts entered, and reported that many boats had just come across the lake, and that the men were now making their way through the reeds and grasses towards the camp. General Guan Sheng smiled at this, and turning to his adjutant spoke quietly some secret word.

Zhang Heng and his two hundred and fifty men made stealthy progress through the reeds towards Guan Sheng’s camp and removed sundry obstacles placed there as part of the defenses of the camp. In the camp they saw the General’s tent, well lighted by lamps, and the General himself reading a book and stroking his beard. Zhang Heng saw no soldiers about, so he ran forward with his long spear in his hand. He had not gone into the tent when a gong was sounded, and there was such an outburst of shouting that it seemed as though both Heaven and Earth were falling to pieces. Zhang Heng was alarmed, and turned to retreat. But it was too late. He was seized, and also all his men were surrounded and captured. They were all taken before General Guan Sheng who laughed when he saw them. “You rabble of brigands! How dare you visit me like this?” He ordered Zhang Heng to be placed in a prisoner’s cart and the rest to be put under guard.

At Liangshan Marsh, Zhang Shun went to the headquarters where the leaders were assembled, and told them what had occurred to his brother.

Upon hearing this Ruan the Seventh was excited, and said, “We are all in the same boat, and we must at once rescue our elder brother. Why did you not rescue him yourself? I and my brothers must go at once to rescue him.”

“It was done without any orders,” said Zhang Shun, “and therefore I dared not go with him.”

“If you wait for orders from our commander-in-chief before you act then you will be too late to save your brother,” said Ruan the Seventh.

Zhang Shun and the three brothers Ruan thereupon embarked their men, and about 3 A.M. a hundred boats were filled with men and went across the lake.

The scouts of the Imperial troops seeing this fleet with armed men immediately informed Guan Sheng. He laughed, and said, “These slaves are stupid.” He turned and whispered orders to his adjutant again.

The brigands disembarked, and as they approached the camp they saw many lights burning, but not a single man. The brothers Ruan were startled, and decided to retreat. But a gong was sounded, but immediately soldiers sprang forth from hiding places on all sides. The brigands were quite surrounded, and Zhang Shun being near the boats dived in to the water at once. He and about four others escaped in this way, but all the others were taken prisoners.

Upon the news of the disaster reaching Liangshan Marsh, Liu Tang ordered Zhang Shun at once to make his way by swimming to Song Jiang’s secluded camp. Upon arriving there Zhang Shun told the news, and Song Jiang discussed with Wu Yong how they could repel General Guan Sheng’s army.

“Tomorrow we must have a trial of strength with these Imperial troops,” said Wu Yong.

While they were talking of their plans the sound of drums was heard, and Wu Yong was surprised as it indicated that General Xuan Zan was approaching to attack the secluded camp. Song Jiang marched all his men out to meet the attack, and met then the Imperial troops. He turned to his men, and asked, “Who will go for single combat?” In response Hua Rong spurred his horse forward to engage in combat with General Xuan Zan. That General was ready, and they engaged in a fight. After about ten bouts, Hua Rong decided on a change of tactics. After delivering a blow with his sword he wheeled round and retreated. He now took his bow and arrow, and turning in his saddle shot at General Xuan Zan who was pursuing him. The General saw the movement, and lifting his sword caught the flying arrow with it. Hua Rong saw that he had failed, so immediately took another arrow, and shot it at the General who was now quite close. This time the general saw the arrow, and bent down on his horse, and the arrow just missed him. But the General realized the great skill of Hua Rong, and decided to run no further risks. He turned his horse, and went back to his men. Hua Rong seeing this also turned and pursued the General. Again he shot an arrow, but this struck the brass plate on the General’s back and did no damage. Now the General rushed back to his camp and reported the feat to Guan Sheng.

General Guan Sheng ordered his attendant to bring his fiery horse. He rode forth with his great halberd in his hand. Song Jiang saw the fine martial bearing of the man, and turning round called out, “He is indeed a great hero!” Lin Chong hearing this expression was annoyed, and called out, “We brothers, since we joined at Liangshan Marsh we have taken part in many fights, and so far have never been daunted in any contact. Today we are not to be despised.” So saying he whipped his horse and rushed forward to fight.

General Guan Sheng seeing this called out, “You brigands, it is not worthwhile for me to fall on you. I want Song Jiang to come forward, and explain why he has rebelled.”

Song Jiang hearing this called Lin Chong to return, and then rode forward himself. He halted in front of General Guan Sheng, and saluting said, “I am now waiting for your questions.”

“You were a clerk in a yamen,” shouted General Guan Sheng, “how dare you rebel in this way?”

“The Imperial affairs are in disorder,” replied Song Jiang, “and corrupt officials are in power; loyal men are ignored; and covetous men are employed. This results in the suffering of the people. We are the agents of Heaven, and have no personal aims.”

Guan Sheng shouted, “It is clear that you are a brigand. Which Heaven has appointed you? My troops carry out the Son of Heaven’s wish, but you have only fine words on your side. If you don’t dismount at once, I will have you cut into many pieces.”

Upon hearing this Qin Ming was angry, and dashed from the rear on horseback. At the same moment Lin Chong did the same. Guan Sheng, however, stood his ground, and fought with the two. The three horses circled round like a small whirlwind. Song Jiang called to the gongs to summon the two leaders to come back, and when they returned Qin Ming protested, “We could have captured that man. Why did you stop us?”

Song Jiang replied in a loud voice, “We are honest and upright, and we do not like to see two men attacking one. It is not fair. If you had captured him you could not capture his mind. He is a loyal and devoted official, and the spirits of his ancestors must be very proud of him. If we could win him over I would immediately resign in his favor.”

Both Qin Ming and Lin Chong could say nothing against this. That day nothing further was done, and both armies retired to their bases.

Upon reaching his camp General Guan Sheng doffed his armor and sat down in silent meditation, “I would have been defeated by those two men, but when they were on the point of seizing me Song Jiang summoned them to return. I wonder why he did that?” So he sent for both the prisoners Zhang Heng and Ruan the Seventh and then asked them, “Song Jiang previously was only a clerk in a magistrate’s yamen so why do you men serve him so faithfully?”

Ruan the Seventh replied, “Our leader Song Jiang is famous in Shandong and Hebei as ‘the Protector.’ You do not know honest and upright men, and therefore cannot recognize such men when you meet them.”

General Guan Sheng bowed his head, but did not speak except ordering the prisoners to be taken back. That night he was restless, and as he could not sleep he got up, and strolled round his camp in the moonlight. It was a cold night, and hoarfrost covered the ground. Shortly an orderly came and said that a General had arrived and wished to speak to him.

“What is his name?” asked General Guan Sheng.

“He would not tell me that,” said the orderly. “He is however unarmed and without armor.”

“In that case you can admit him,” said the general.

In a short time the man was brought to his tent. General Guan Sheng trimmed his lamp so as to get a clear view of the man, and thought the face was familiar. He, however, asked for his name.

“Can we talk together privately?” asked the man.

General Guan Sheng laughed at this and said, “I am commander-in-chief of these hundred thousand soldiers, and we are all united together with one mind. If we were not of one mind how could I command them? They are all familiar with my affairs, and I keep no secrets from them. You can talk to me without any hesitation.”

“I am Huyan Zhuo,” said the man, “and was previously a General in the Imperial army, and was once appointed to attack the brigand at Liangshan Marsh. They captured me by a ruse, and all my army was annihilated so that I dared not go back. Yesterday I heard that you had arrived here, and I was much pleased. This morning you were attacked by Qin Ming and Lin Chong, but Song Jiang summoned them to return as he was afraid that they might wound you. He had the idea that at some time he might surrender to you but the others would not agree with him. Just now I have had a secret conversation with Song Jiang, and discussed how we might make all the others surrender to you. So if you are willing we can suggest a plan. Tomorrow night you may come to our camp by a small by-path, lightly armed, to capture Lin Chong and the other bandits. By this not only you will gain great credit, but Song Jiang and I may also redeem our guilt.”

General Guan Sheng was much pleased at this, and invited Huyan Zhuo to drink wine with him. Huyan Zhuo talked very much of the honesty and justice of Song Jiang, and dwelt upon his hard luck which had forced him to become a brigand.

The next day General Guan Sheng spoke to Huyan Zhuo, “As you have a certain plot for this evening, it would be better if I attacked and defeated the brigands today.”

Huyan Zhuo donned his armor, and rode to the front of the Imperial army. When Song Jiang saw him he cursed him, “We never treated you unfairly why did you desert us last night?”

“Previously you were only a petty officer so how could you undertake a big affair now,” replied Huyan Zhuo.

Song Jiang did not reply to this insult, but ordered Huang Xin to engage in single combat with Huyan Zhuo. The two fought for about ten bouts, and then Huyan Zhuo hit Huang Xin a severe blow with his bludgeon and knocked him off his horse.

General Guan Sheng was much pleased at this, and ordered a general attack. But Huyan Zhuo said this was not advisable because Wu Yong was full of tricks which he would use if his men were hard pressed. General Guan Sheng agreed and ordered a retreat to their camp.

Upon reaching the camp Generals Guan Sheng and Huyan Zhuo drank wine in the former’s tent, and there the General asked about the opponent who apparently had been killed.

“That man Huang Xin was previously a Lieutenant-General in the Imperial army,” replied Huyan Zhuo. “He joined the brigands at the same time as Qin Ming and Hua Rong. He is at variance with Song Jiang about many questions and perhaps that is why Song Jiang today ordered him to attack me so that he would get killed and be removed out of his way.”

General Guan Sheng was pleased to hear this. He issued orders that Generals Xuan Zan and Hao Siwen at eleven o’clock that night should lead five hundred cavalry as a reserve on an attack on Song Jiang’s camp. At the appointed time everything was ready. The iron accoutrements on horses and men had been taken off so that less noise would be made. Each man had a small gag in his mouth to prevent any talking. Huyan Zhuo mounted his horse and led the way.

It was a bright moonlight night. They had traveled for about an hour, and upon turning round a mountain they encountered a party of about fifty mounted brigands who called, “Are you not Huyan Zhuo’s men?”

Huyan Zhuo told the men not to speak, but just follow him. He then whipped his horse, and galloped forward followed by General Guan Sheng and his men. They had soon passed round another ridge of the mountain, and then Huyan Zhuo halted, and pointed to a red lamp burning in the distance on the mountain.

“Where is that red lamp burning?” asked the general.

“That is in Song Jiang’s camp,” replied Huyan Zhuo.

They proceeded on their way, but when fairly near the red camp a bomb was fired, and General Guan Sheng galloped forward and called his men to follow him. But when they reached the red lamp they found nobody there, and even Huyan Zhuo had vanished. General Guan Sheng was startled and realized that he had been deceived. He turned round and ordered a retreat.

But now gongs and drums were heard on all sides. The path was soon lost, and the General saw his men scattering in all directions so that soon he had only about ten men with him. As they turned the spur of the mountain another bomb was fired, and he now saw a large body of armed brigands blocking his way. He was soon surrounded by men armed with hooked poles, and with these they caught hold of his clothes and pulled him off his horse. They seized his great halberd and horse, bound his arm, and pushed him forward towards their camp. Lin Chong and Hua Rong led another attacking party, to cut off Guan Sheng’s reserve forces in charge of Lieutenant-General Xuan Zan who fought for about twenty bouts in the bright moonlight. At the end Xuan Zan was almost exhausted, and turning his horse tried to escape. But the “Ten Feet of Green,” Hu San Niang had been watching this at one side, and she now threw her red silk lasso, caught Xuan Zan, and brought him off his horse. He was seized by the men around, and was also taken to the brigand’s camp as a prisoner.

We will now see what had happened to the brigands led by Qin Ming and Sun Li against the reserve force of the Imperial troops under Lieutenant-General Hao Siwen. When they met on the road Hao Siwen reviled the brigands, “If you brigands obstruct my progress you will certainly die. If you wish to live then withdraw at once.”

Qin Ming was angry at this speech, lashed his horse, and dashed forward for single combat. They fought for a long time, and then Sun Li went forward to assist Qin Ming. When Hao Siwen saw he had two opponents he was undecided what to do and was off his usual guard. Qin Ming seized the opportunity, and knocked Hao Siwen off his horse, who was immediately seized by the brigands.

Li Ying led other brigands to the camp of the Imperial troops, where they overcome the guard, released Ruan the Seventh and Zhang Heng, and took away all the stores, fodder, and accoutrements.

It was near daybreak when all was finished, and Song Jiang ordered all to start for Liangshan Marsh. Upon arriving there all the leaders assembled in the Loyalty and Justice Hall where the three captured Generals were brought. Song Jiang came forward to meet the Generals, and released them himself. He conducted General Guan Sheng, and made him sit in his own chair. He then bowed, and saluted the General and said, “We ruffians have offended your dignity, and beg for your pardon.”

Huyan Zhuo now stepped forward, bowed, saluted, and then addressed the General, “I acted under orders from my commanding officer whom I dared not disobey. I hope that you will forgive me for deceiving you.”

General Guan Sheng looked round on all the assembled leaders, and realized that they were all actuated by upright principles. He turned round and spoke to his two Lieutenant Generals, “We are prisoners here. What can we do?”

“We will follow your orders,” they replied.

“We are too disgraced to return to the capital,” said General Guan Sheng to Song Jiang. “Let us have an early death.”

“Why do you talk like that?” asked Song Jiang. “If you do not despise our lowly calling perhaps you might join us to carry out the Will of Heaven. But if you are unwilling to do so, then we will not detain you here, but allow you to return to the capital.”

“Many people have said that you are loyal and just, but now I know that that remark is true,” said General Guan Sheng. “In this life if the Emperor treats me well, I will support him; if a friend treats me well, I will support him too. Now as I am undetermined I will stay here in the capacity of an ordinary soldier.”

Song Jiang was much pleased, and ordered a feast to be prepared in honor of the General. He also ordered all the prisoners to be brought to Liangshan Marsh, and to be well treated. Those soldiers who wished to return home were allowed to do so, and presented with money for traveling expenses. A man was also sent to take the family of General Guan Sheng to join him at Liangshan Marsh.

During the aforementioned feast Song Jiang remembered that Lu Junyi and Shi Xiu were still in the prison at the Northern Capital, Daming so he shed tears. Wu Yong then spoke to Song Jiang, “Brother, do not be downhearted. I have a plan of rescuing our brothers. Tomorrow morning we may dispatch men to assist in the final attack on Daming.”

Upon hearing this General Guan Sheng stood up and said, “I have not yet had the opportunity of recompensing you for your generosity, please allow me to take charge of this movement.”

Song Jiang was much pleased, and agreed to this. Guan Sheng’s troops were now enrolled as brigands, and were placed in charge of Hao Siwen and Xuan Zan who were under General Guan Sheng. They were to be the vanguard in the new attack on Daming.

In the Northern Capital, Grand Secretary Liang was now dining with Suo Chao. It was a dull day with a strong wind blowing. A scout entered, and reported that General Guan Sheng and all his troops had been captured, and moreover had all joined the brigands. They were now all advancing towards the Daming Prefecture.

When Liang heard this he was astounded, and dropped the wine cup he was holding at the moment.

“I was wounded by an arrow from the brigands, and now must have my revenge,” said Suo Chao.

Grand Secretary Liang the filled up a cup with wine, and presented it to Suo Chao saying, “Take the troops to encounter immediately.”

It was now the middle of winter, and the weather was very cold with strong winds. The hooves of the horses were frozen and the armor was as cold as ice when they left the town.

Song Jiang had taken up his position on a mound where he could watch the pending battle.

The brigands under Guan Sheng soon faced the troops under Suo Chao. The latter did not recognize Guan Sheng, but his officers told him that fact. Suo Chao did not make any remark, but dashed forward on his horse, Guan Sheng also did the same, and the two fought.

After about ten bouts Lieutenant-General Li Cheng saw that Suo Chao was getting the worst of the combat so he galloped forward to assist him. But Xuan Zan and Hao Siwen on the other side, seeing this move, also came forward to assist Guan Sheng. Now the five horses were so close together that it was hard to follow individual movements. Song Jiang seeing this from his mound ordered a general advance, and the brigands attacked the Imperial troops, and drove them back towards the city. When they were close to the gates Song Jiang signaled for a cessation of hostilities.

The following day was very cloudy and it seemed like it was going to rain. Suo Chao led his troops outside the city, and Wu Yong ordered the brigands to put up a trifling defense. If pressed they were to retire. Thus Suo Chao won a slight victory, but ordered a retreat. That evening the clouds were heavier and quite low, and a big wind also sprang up. This was soon followed by a heavy fall of snow. Seeing this Wu Yong ordered a party of men to proceed to a defile in the hills near the town where a narrow road passed through, and there make pitfalls which, when finished, were to be covered over with earth. This was done. It snowed all night, and next morning the snow was deep enough to reach to the horse’s knees.

In the morning Suo Chao went to the city wall to view the enemy. He noticed that owing to the snow the horses moved with difficulty, and were in some disorder. He therefore ordered three hundred of his cavalry to start a sudden raid. The mounted brigands upon seeing the cavalry scattered in all directions.

Song Jiang had ordered Li Jun and Zhang Shun to leave off their armor, and go out for single combat. They opposed Suo Chao, but soon threw away their spears and bolted after their men. Suo Chao was hasty, and pursued these men who induced Suo Chao towards the concealed pitfalls. The narrow path was on the bank of the river, and upon reaching that part the two men dismounted and jumped into the river as though to escape from Suo Chao. In the water Li Jun called out, “Brother Song Jiang, get away quickly!” and Suo Chao hearing this dashed forward along the road towards the point where he thought Song Jiang was, and fell into one of the pitfalls, and at once brigands were on the scene from all sides. Even if Suo Chao had had six arms and three heads he could not have got away.

White sheets of snow like silver,

As pure as broken jade,

Concealed a cunning pitfall,

As good as man e’r made.