第十三回
第十三回 急先锋东郭争功 青面兽北京斗武
诗曰：
得罪幽燕作配戎，当场比试较英雄。
棋逢敌手难藏幸，将遇良才怎用功。
鹊画弓弯欺满月，点钢枪刺耀霜风。
直饶射虎穿杨手，尽在输赢胜负中。
话说当时周谨、杨志两个勒马在于旗下，正欲出战交锋，只见兵马都监闻达喝道：“且住！”自上厅来禀复梁中书道：“复恩相：论这两个比试武艺，虽然未见本事高低，枪刀本是无情之物，只宜杀贼剿寇，今日军中自家比试，恐有伤损，轻则残疾，重则致命，此乃于军不利。可将两根枪去了枪头，各用毡片包裹，地下蘸了石灰，再各上马，都与皂衫穿着，但是枪尖厮搠，如白点多者当输。此理如何？”梁中书道：“言之极当。”随即传令下去。两个领了言语，向这演武厅后去了枪尖，都用毡片包了，缚成骨朵[1]，身上各换了皂衫，各用枪去石灰桶里蘸了石灰，再各上马，出到阵前。杨志横枪立马看那周谨时，果是弓马熟闲。怎生结束？头戴皮盔，皂衫笼着一副熟铜甲，下穿一对战靴，系一条绯红包肚，骑一匹鹅黄马。那周谨跃马挺枪直取杨志，这杨志也拍战马拈手中枪来战周谨。两个在阵前来来往往，翻翻复复，搅做一团，扭做一块。鞍上人斗人，坐下马斗马，两个斗了四五十合。看周谨时，恰似打翻了豆腐的，斑斑点点，约有三五十处。看杨志时，只有左肩胛上一点白。梁中书大喜，叫唤周谨上厅看了迹，道：“前官参你做个军中副牌，量你这般武艺，如何南征北讨，怎生做的正请受的副牌？教杨志替此人职役。”
管军兵马都监李成上厅禀复梁中书道：“周谨枪法生疏，弓马熟闲，不争把他来逐了职事，恐怕慢了军心。再教周谨与杨志比箭如何？”梁中书道：“言之极当。”再传下将令来，叫杨志与周谨比箭。两个得了将令，都扎了枪，各关了弓箭。杨志就弓袋内取出那张弓来，扣得端正，擎了弓，跳上马，跑到厅前，立在马上，欠身禀复道：“恩相，弓箭发处，事不容情，恐有伤损，乞请钧旨。”梁中书道：“武夫比试，何虑伤残，但有本事，射死勿论。”杨志得令，回到阵前。李成传下言语，叫两个比箭好汉各关与一面遮箭牌，防护身体。两个各领了遮箭防牌，绾在臂上。杨志道：“你先射我三箭，后却还你三箭。”周谨听了，恨不得把杨志一箭射个透明。杨志终是个军官出身，识破了他手段，全不把他为事。怎见的两个比试？
一个天姿英发，一个锐气豪强。一个曾向山中射虎，一个惯从风里穿杨。彀满处兔狐丧命，箭发时雕鹗魂伤。较艺术当场比并，施手段对众揄扬。一个磨鞦解实难抵当，一个闪身解不可提防。顷刻内要观胜负，霎时间要见存亡。虽然两个降龙手，必定其中有一强。
当时将台上早把青旗磨动。杨志拍马望南边去，周谨纵马赶来，将缰绳搭在马鞍鞒上，左手拿着弓，右手搭上箭，拽得满满地，望杨志后心飕地一箭。杨志听得背后弓弦响，霍地一闪，去镫里藏身，那枝箭早射个空。周谨见一箭射不着，却早慌了，再去壶中急取第二枝箭来，搭上弓弦，觑的杨志较亲，望后心再射一箭。杨志听得第二枝箭来，却不去镫里藏身。那枝箭风也似来，杨志那时也取弓在手，用弓梢只一拨，那枝箭滴溜溜拨下草地里去了。周谨见第二枝箭又射不着，心里越慌。杨志的马早跑到教场尽头，霍地把马一兜，那马便转身望正厅上走回来。周谨也把马只一勒，那马也跑回，就势里赶将来。去那绿茸茸芳草地上，八个马蹄翻盏撒钹相似，勃喇喇地风团儿也似般走。周谨再取第三枝箭，搭在弓弦上，扣得满满地，尽平生气力，眼睁睁地看着杨志后心窝上，只一箭射将来。杨志听得弓弦响，扭回身，就鞍上把那枝箭只一绰，绰在手里，便纵马入演武厅前，撇下周谨的箭。
梁中书见了大喜，传下号令，却叫杨志也射周谨三箭。将台上又把青旗磨动。周谨撇了弓箭，拿了防牌在手，拍马望南而走。杨志在马上把腰只一纵，略将脚一拍，那马勃喇喇的便赶。杨志先把弓虚扯一扯，周谨在马上听得脑后弓弦响，扭动转身来，便把防牌来迎，却早接个空。周谨寻思道：“那厮只会使枪，不会射箭。等我待他第二枝箭再虚诈时，我便喝住了他，便算我赢了。”周谨的马早到教场南尽头，那马便转望演武厅来。杨志的马见周谨马跑转来，那马也便回身。杨志早去壶中掣出一枝箭来，搭在弓弦上，心里想道：“射中他后心窝，必至伤了他性命。他和我又没冤仇，洒家只射他不致命处便了。”左手如托泰山，右手如抱婴孩，弓开如满月，箭去似流星，说时迟，那时快，一箭正中周谨左肩。周谨措手不及，翻身落马。那匹空马直跑过演武厅背后去了。众军卒自去救那周谨去了。
梁中书见了大喜，叫军政司便呈文案来，教杨志截替了周谨职役。杨志喜气洋洋，下了马，便向厅前来拜谢恩相，充其职役。只见阶下左边转上一个人来，叫道：“休要谢职！我和你两个比试。”杨志看那人时，身材凛凛，七尺以上长短，面圆耳大，唇阔口方，腮边一部落腮胡须，威风凛凛，相貌堂堂，直到梁中书面前声了喏，禀道：“周谨患病未痊，精神不在，因此误输与杨志。小将不才，愿与杨志比试武艺。如若小将折半点便宜与杨志，休教截替周谨，便教杨志替了小将职役，虽死而不怨。”梁中书看时，不是别人，却是大名府留守司正牌军索超。为是他性急，撮盐入火，为国家面上只要争气，当先厮杀，以此人都叫他做急先锋。
李成听得，便下将台来，直到厅前禀复道：“相公，这杨志既是殿司制使，必然好武艺。虽和周谨不是对手，正好与索正牌比试武艺，便见优劣。”梁中书听了，心中想道：“我指望一力要抬举杨志，众将不伏。一发等他赢了索超，他们也死而无怨，却无话说。”梁中书随即唤杨志上厅，问道：“你与索超比试武艺如何？”杨志禀道：“恩相将令，安敢有违。”梁中书道：“既然如此，你去厅后换了装束，好生披挂。”教甲仗库随行官吏，取应用军器给与，就叫：“牵我的战马，借与杨志骑。小心在意，休觑得等闲。”杨志谢了，自去结束。
却说李成分付索超道：“你却难比别人，周谨是你徒弟，先自输了。你若有些疏失，吃他把大名府军官都看得轻了。我有一匹惯曾上阵的战马并一副披挂，都借与你。小心在意，休教折了锐气！”索超谢了，也自去结束。
梁中书起身，走出阶前来。从人移转银交椅，直到月台栏干边放下，梁中书坐定。左右祗候两行，唤打伞的撑开那把银葫芦顶茶褐罗三檐凉伞来，盖定在梁中书背后。将台上传下将令，早把红旗招动。两边金鼓齐鸣，发一通擂，去那教场中两阵内各放了个炮。炮响处，索超跑马入阵内藏在门旗下。杨志也从阵里跑马入军中，直到门旗背后。将台上又把黄旗招动，又发了一通擂，两军齐呐一声喊。教场中谁敢做声，静荡荡的。再一声锣响，扯起净平白旗，两下众官没一个敢走动胡言说话，静静地立着。将台上又把青旗招动，只见第三通战鼓响处，去那左边阵内门旗下，看看分开，鸾铃响处，正牌军索超出马，直到阵前兜住马，拿军器在手，果是英雄。怎生打扮？但见：
头戴一顶熟铜狮子盔，脑后斗大来一颗红樱；身披一副铁叶攒成铠甲，腰系一条镀金兽面束带，前后两面青铜护心镜；上笼着一领绯红团花袍，上面垂两条绿绒缕颔带；下穿一双斜皮气跨靴。左带一张弓，右悬一壶箭，手里横着一柄金蘸斧。坐下李都监那匹惯战能征雪白马。
看那匹马时，又是一匹好马。但见：
两耳如同玉箸，双睛凸似金铃。色按庚辛，仿佛南山白额虎；毛堆腻粉，如同北海玉麒麟。冲得阵，跳得溪，喜战鼓性如君子；负得重，走得远，惯嘶风必是龙媒。胜如伍相梨花马，赛过秦王白玉驹。
左阵上急先锋索超兜住马，挜[2]着金蘸斧，立马在阵前。右边阵内门旗下，看看分开，鸾铃响处，杨志提手中枪出马，直至阵前，勒住马，横着枪在手，果是勇猛。怎生结束？但见：
头戴一顶铺霜耀日镔铁盔，上撒着一把青缨；身穿一副钩嵌梅花榆叶甲，系一条红绒打就勒甲绦，前后兽面掩心；上笼着一领白罗生色花袍，垂着条紫绒飞带；脚登一双黄皮衬底靴。一张皮靶弓，数根凿子箭，手中挺着浑铁点钢枪。骑的是梁中书那匹火块赤千里嘶风马。
看时，又是一匹无敌的好马。但见：
鬃分火焰，尾摆朝霞。浑身乱扫胭脂，两耳对攒红叶。侵晨临紫塞，马蹄迸四点寒星；日暮转沙堤，就地滚一团火块。休言火德神驹，真乃寿亭赤兔。疑是南宫来猛兽，浑如北海出骊龙。
右阵上青面兽杨志，拈手中枪，勒坐下马，立于阵前。两边军将暗暗地喝采，虽不知武艺如何，先见威风出众。正南上旗牌官拿着销金令字旗，骤马而来，喝道：“奉相公钧旨，教你两个俱各用心。如有亏误处，定行责罚；若是赢时，多有重赏。”二人得令，纵马出阵，都到教场中心，两马相交，二般兵器并举。索超忿怒，轮手中大斧，拍马来战杨志。杨志逞威，拈手中神枪，来迎索超。两个在教场中间，将台前面，二将相交，各赌平生本事。一来一往，一去一回，四条臂膊纵横，八只马蹄撩乱。但见：
征旗蔽日，杀气遮天。一个金蘸斧直奔顶门，一个浑铁枪不离心坎。这个是扶持社稷，毗沙门托塔李天王；那个是整顿江山，掌金阙天蓬大元帅。一个枪尖上吐一条火焰，一个斧刃中迸几道寒光。那个是七国中袁达重生，这个是三分内张飞出世。一个似巨灵神忿怒，挥大斧劈碎西华山；一个如华光藏生嗔，仗金枪搠透锁魔关。这个圆彪彪睁开双眼，肐查查斜砍斧头来；那个必剥剥咬碎牙关，火焰焰摇得枪杆断。这个弄精神，不放些儿空；那个觑破绽，安容半点闲。
当下杨志和索超两个斗到五十馀合，不分胜败。月台上梁中书看得呆了。两边众军官看了，喝采不迭。阵面上军士们递相厮觑道：“我们做了许多年军，也曾出了几遭征，何曾见这等一对好汉厮杀！”李成、闻达在将台上不住声叫道：“好斗！”闻达心里只恐两个内伤了一个，慌忙招呼旗牌官拿着令字旗，与他分了。将台上忽的一声锣响，杨志和索超斗到是处，各自要争功，那里肯回马。旗牌官飞来叫道：“两个好汉歇了，相公有令。”杨志、索超方才收了手中军器，勒坐下马，各跑回本阵来，立马在旗下，看那梁中书，只等将令。李成、闻达下将台来，直到月台下禀复梁中书道：“相公，据这两个武艺一般，皆可重用。”梁中书大喜，传下将令，叫唤杨志、索超。旗牌官传令，唤两个到厅前，都下了马，小校接了二人的军器。两个都上厅来，躬身听令。梁中书叫取两锭白银，两副表里来，赏赐二人。就叫军政司将两个都升做管军提辖使，便叫贴了文案，从今日便参了他两个。索超、杨志都拜谢了梁中书，将着赏赐下厅来。解了枪刀弓箭，卸了头盔衣甲，换了衣裳。索超也自去了披挂，换了锦袄。都上厅来，再拜谢了众军官，入班做了提辖。众军卒打着得胜鼓，把着那金鼓旗先散。梁中书和大小军官，都在演武厅上筵宴。
看看红日沉西，筵席已罢，众官皆欢。梁中书上了马，众官员都送归府。马头前摆着这两个新参的提辖，上下肩都骑着马，头上都带着花红，迎入东郭门来。两边街道扶老携幼，都看了欢喜。梁中书在马上问道：“你那百姓欢喜为何，莫非哂笑下官？”众老人都跪下禀道：“老汉等生在北京，长在大名府，不曾见今日这等两个好汉将军比试。今日教场中看了这般敌手，如何不欢喜！”梁中书在马上听了大喜。回到府中，众官各自散了。索超自有一班弟兄，请去作庆饮酒。杨志新来，未有相识，自去梁府宿歇，早晚殷勤，听候使唤。都不在话下。
且把这闲话丢过，只说正话。自东郭演武之后，梁中书十分爱惜杨志，早晚与他并不相离。月中又有一分请受，自渐渐地有人来结识他。那索超见了杨志手段高强，心中也自钦伏。不觉光阴迅速，又早春尽夏来，时逢端午，蕤宾节至。梁中书与蔡夫人在堂家宴，庆贺端阳。但见：
盆栽绿艾，瓶插红榴。水晶帘卷虾须，锦绣屏开孔雀。菖蒲切玉，佳人笑捧紫霞杯；角黍堆金，美女高擎青玉案。食烹异品，果献时新。弦管笙簧，奏一派声清韵美；绮罗珠翠，摆两行舞女歌儿。当筵象板撒红牙，遍体舞裙拖锦绣。消遣壶中闲日月，遨游身外醉乾坤。
当日梁中书正在后堂与蔡夫人家宴，庆赏端阳。酒至数杯，食供两套，只见蔡夫人道：“相公自从出身，今日为一统帅，掌握国家重任，这功名富贵从何而来？”梁中书道：“世杰自幼读书，颇知经史。人非草木，岂不知泰山之恩，提携之力，感激不尽。”蔡夫人道：“丈夫既知我父亲之恩德，如何忘了他生辰？”梁中书道：“下官如何不记得！泰山是六月十五日生辰，已使人将十万贯收买金珠宝贝，送上京师庆寿。一月之前，干人都关领去了，见今九分齐备。数日之间，也待打点停当，差人起程。只是一件，在此踌躇：上年收买了许多玩器并金珠宝贝，使人送去，不到半路，尽被贼人劫了，枉费了这一遭财物，至今严捕贼人不获。今年教谁人去好？”蔡夫人道：“帐前见有许多军校，你选择知心腹的人去便了。”梁中书道：“尚有四五十日，早晚催并礼物完足，那时选择去人未迟。夫人不必挂心，世杰自有理会。”当日家宴，午牌至二更方散，自此不在话下。
不说梁中书收买礼物玩器，选人上京去庆贺蔡太师生辰，且说山东济州郓城县新到任一个知县，姓时名文彬，当日升厅公座。但见：
为官清正，作事廉明。每怀恻隐之心，常有仁慈之念。争田夺地，辨曲直而后施行；斗欧相争，分轻重方才决断。闲暇抚琴会客，也应分理民情。虽然县治宰臣官，果是一方民父母。
当下知县时文彬升厅公座，左右两边排着公吏人等。知县随即叫唤尉司捕盗官员，并两个巡捕都头。本县尉司管下，有两个都头：一个唤做步兵都头，一个唤做马兵都头。这马兵都头管着二十匹坐马弓手，二十个土兵；那步兵都头管着二十个使枪的头目，二十个土兵。
这马兵都头姓朱名仝，身长八尺四五，有一部虎须髯，长一尺五寸，面如重枣，目若朗星，似关云长模样，满县人都称他做美髯公。原是本处富户，只因他仗义疏财，结识江湖上好汉，学得一身好武艺。怎见的朱仝气象？但见：
义胆忠肝豪杰，胸中武艺精通。超群出众果英雄。弯弓能射虎，提剑可诛龙。一表堂堂神鬼怕，形容凛凛威风。面如重枣色通红。云长重出世，人号美髯公。
那步兵都头姓雷名横，身长七尺五寸，紫棠色面皮，有一部扇圈胡须。为他膂力过人，能跳二三丈阔涧，满县人都称他做插翅虎。原是本县打铁匠人出身，后来开张碓坊，杀牛放赌。虽然仗义，只有些心匾窄。也学得一身好武艺。怎见得雷横气象？但见：
天上罡星临世上，就中一个偏能。都头好汉是雷横。拽拳神臂健，飞脚电光生。江海英雄当武勇，跳墙过涧身轻。豪雄谁敢与相争。山东插翅虎，寰海尽闻名。
因那朱仝、雷横两个，非是等闲人也，以此众人保他两个做了都头，专管擒拿贼盗。当日知县呼唤，两个上厅来，声了喏，取台旨。知县道：“我自到任以来，闻知本府济州管下所属水乡梁山泊，贼盗聚众打劫，拒敌官军。亦恐各处乡村，盗贼猖狂，小人甚多。今唤你等两个，休辞辛苦，与我将带本管土兵人等，一个出西门，一个出东门，分投巡捕。若有贼人，随即剿获申解，不可扰动乡民。体知东溪村山上有株大红叶树，别处皆无。你们众人采几片来县里呈纳，方表你们曾巡到那里；各人若无红叶，便是汝等虚妄，官府定行责罚不恕。”两个都头领了台旨，各自回归，点了本管土兵，分投自去巡察。
不说朱仝引人出西门自去巡捕，只说雷横当晚引了二十个土兵，出东门绕村巡察，遍地里走了一遭，回来到东溪村山上，众人采了那红叶，就下村来。行不到三二里，早到灵官庙前，见殿门不关，雷横道：“这殿里又没有庙祝，殿门不关，莫不有歹人在里面么？我们直入去看一看。”众人拿着火，一齐照将入来，只见供桌上赤条条地睡着一个大汉。天道又热，那汉子把些破衣裳团做一块作枕头，枕在项下，齁齁的沉睡着了在供桌上。雷横看了道：“好怪，好怪！知县相公忒神明，原来这东溪村真个有贼。”大喝一声，那汉却待要挣挫，被二十个土兵一齐向前，把那汉子一条索子绑了，押出庙门，投一个保正庄上来。
不是投那个去处，有分教：直使得东溪村里，聚三四筹好汉英雄；郓城县中，寻十万贯金珠宝贝。正是：天上罡星来聚会，人间地煞得相逢。毕竟雷横拿住那汉投解甚处来，且听下回分解。
[1] 骨朵——古时守卫人拿的一种长柄仪仗兵器，头端形如金瓜、大蒜。后文第三十三回花荣射中的门神骨朵头，第五十九回宋江执着的骨朵，都是这种兵器。这里是说改造过的长枪形同骨朵。
[2] 挜（yà）——挥动。
CHAPTER 12. The Urgent Vanguard Strives for Merit at the Parade Ground; the Blue Faced Brute Takes Part in the Military Sports
YANG ZHI and Zhou Jin were mounted on their horses, but while waiting at the foot of the flagpole for the signal to start the staff officer Wen Da shouted out, “Wait a bit!” He then went to Grand Secretary Liang on the platform and said to him, “Sir, we do not yet know what skill these two men have in military sports, but their arms are dangerous weapons suitable for killing thieves and exterminating bandits. I am afraid that today somebody may be seriously wounded—a slight blow might cripple a man for life whereas a serious blow might kill a man, and that would not be for the good of the army. So I beg to suggest that the spikes should be removed from the spears, and replaced by the felt. Then they should both wear black dress. The felt knobs on the spears should then be rubbed in lime dust so that they would leave a mark on the clothing for each hit, and the man who has the most white marks will be the loser.”
“That is a sensible proposal,” said the Grand Secretary Liang. Orders were given accordingly.
Upon receiving the order the two horsemen retired behind the platform, where the spikes were removed from their spears and replaced by the knobs of felt. They rubbed these knobs well with lime dust, and put on some black clothing. When this had been done they remounted, and rode round to the drill ground.
Zhou Jin urged his horse forward to fight with Yang Zhi, and the latter did the same. They both dashed past each other, returned again, backwards and forwards many times, thrusting and parrying as they passed. After about fifty of these passages at arms Zhou Jin had so many white spots on his clothes that he looked as though somebody had thrown bean curd at him whereas Yang Zhi had only one single white spot under his left shoulder.
Grand Secretary Liang was much pleased at this, and summoning Zhou Jin he spoke to him; ‘‘My predecessor gave you a commission as Lieutenant, but I think your military skill is of poor quality as you have been beaten in this way. So how can you fight anywhere and continue to receive a Lieutenant’s salary?” He then summoned Yang Zhi, and gave him the position of Zhou Jin.
Just then General Li Cheng arrived on the platform and reported to Grand Secretary Liang that Zhou Jin’s use of the spear was very poor, but as a mounted archer he was excellent. For that reason he must not be dismissed from his position, as the troops would be dissatisfied if that was done. Perhaps it would be better if Zhou Jin and Yang Zhi now contested as archers.
Grand Secretary Liang thought that a good idea, and gave instructions accordingly.
Upon receiving this order Zhou Jin and Yang Zhi both stuck their spears in the ground, and armed themselves with bows and arrows. Yang Zhi took the bow out of its case, adjusted the string, then raising it aloft he mounted his horse, and rode to the front of the platform where he saluted the Grand Secretary Liang by rising in his stirrups and said, “I am afraid, sir, that one of us may be wounded by an arrow, and I ask for your instructions in the matter.”
Grand Secretary Liang said, “in military sports one should not display anxiety about wounds. If someone is killed by an arrow we shall not hold a court-martial.”
Yang Zhi returned to the parade ground, and General Li Cheng then gave an order that each combatant should bear a rattan shield to protect his body from the arrows being shot.
Both combatants took a shield and hung it on his shoulder. Yang Zhi then told his opponent that he could have three shots at him, and he would follow with three shots.
Zhou Jin upon hearing this only wished that he could shoot an arrow that would go right through Yang Zhi’s body.
On the other hand Yang Chin saw that Zhou Jin had no skill, and was not afraid of him.
Just then the purple signaling flag was waved from the platform, and Yang Zhi urged his horse forward, and rode towards the south side. Zhou Jin followed him, and dropped the reins on the saddle. With the bow in his left hand, he took an arrow in his right hand aimed at Yang Zhi’s back and pulling the bow to its full extent and let fly the arrow.
Yang Zhi heard the twang of the bow string, and immediately swung his body down resting entirety on one stirrup. The arrow flew past without touching him. Upon seeing that the arrow had missed its mark Zhou Jin was very much upset. He immediately took a second arrow out of his quiver, fitted it to his bow, took a steady aim at Yang Zhi’s back, and again let fly the arrow.
Yang Zhi heard the arrow flying through the air, and taking his bow, turned round, and parried the arrow by a stroke of his bow. The arrow turned several somersaults ere it reached the ground.
This made Zhou Jin more annoyed than ever. As Yang Zhi had now reached the extreme limit of the parade ground he wheeled his horse round, and galloped back to the platform. Zhou Jin also galloped back to the same spot, and there the two horses pranced about impatiently. Zhou Jin now took his third arrow from his quiver, fixed it carefully to the bowstring, and exerting his full strength, drew the bow to its full extent and shot the arrow again at Yang Zhi’s back. But Yang Zhi again heard the twang of the bowstring, and turning round in his saddle he caught the arrow with his hand as it flew past him. Then urging his horse forward he galloped to the front of the inspection platform and there threw the arrow on the ground.
Upon seeing this feat of skill Grand Secretary Liang was much pleased, and gave an order that Yang Zhi must now shoot three arrows at Zhou Jin. The purple flag was again waved to signal that the sport was to continue.
Zhou Jin threw down his bow, and taking his shield in his hand he urged his horse forward, and rode towards the southern part of the parade ground. Yang Zhi stooping forward in his saddle, urged his horse in the same direction. He then drew the string of his bow, without placing an arrow there, and let the bowstring, go. Zhou Jin hearing the twang of the bowstring, turned round, and held his shield to protect his body, but no arrow came. He thought that Yang Zhi might be good with a spear, but evidently he could not even shoot an arrow. He continued his course, and decided that if the second attempt was also a failure he would shout out, and claim a win. As he had now reached the limit of the parade ground he wheeled round, and returned to the platform again. Upon seeing this Yang Zhi also wheeled his horse round, and returned to the same spot. By that time Yang Zhi had taken an arrow out of his quiver, and fitted it to his bowstring. He thought that if he shot the arrow at Zhou Jin’s back he would probably kill him. As he had no enmity towards Zhou Jin he decided to shoot an arrow and hit him in some non-vital spot. In his left hand he held the bow as firmly as a mountain while in his right hand he held the arrow as lightly as though he carried a baby. So pulling his bowstring to its full extent until the bow was like a full moon in shape, he shot the arrow which flew with the speed of a falling star, and struck Zhou Jin’s shoulder. This occurred much quicker than it takes us to describe it. Zhou Jin fell off his horse and the animal being free galloped off to the back of the inspection platform. A number of soldiers came forward to help Zhou Jin to get up.
Grand Secretary Liang was again much pleased at seeing this, and summoning his adjutant he dictated an order that Yang Zhi take the rank and position of Zhou Jin. Yang Zhi heard this but did not allow his feelings to be visible in his face. He dismounted and approaching the inspection platform saluted, and offered thanks for his promotion.
Just then however a man ascended the steps leading to the inspection platform on the left side, and called out, “You need not offer thanks for your promotion. I will have a couple of bouts with you.”
Yang Zhi saw that the man was over seven feet in height; had a round face with large ears; a broad and square shaped mouth; with bushy side whiskers; a general austere, dignified, and handsome appearance. Coming before the Grand Secretary he called out, “Sir, Zhou Jin has evidently not quite recovered from a sickness, and not being in the best of health, has been defeated by Yang Zhi. Though I have no particular ability, yet I am quite willing to compete with Yang Zhi. If Yang Zhi defeats me even only slightly then I shall be quite willing to let him take my rank and position instead of Zhou Jin’s. Even if he kills me it won’t matter.”
Grand Secretary Liang recognized the man as Captain Suo Chao of the headquarters at the Northern Capital, Daming. He had a fiery disposition, and would invariably fought for the honor of the state, and even killed men so that everybody called him “The Urgent Vanguard.”
General Li Cheng upon hearing the man make this statement left the inspection platform, and going round to the front of it addressed the Grand Secretary, “Sir, Yang Zhi was previously an officer in the Imperial Guard and therefore it is only to be expected that his skill in military sports would be better than that of Zhou Jin. I think it would be a good idea if Yang Zhi now contested with Captain Suo, and then we should see exactly who is the better man.”
Grand Secretary Liang thought the matter over. He certainly wished to give Yang Zhi an officer’s commission, but as so many were opposed to that, he would wait until Yang Zhi had defeated Suo Chao, so that nobody could then raise any objection even if Suo Chao was killed. So he summoned Yang Zhi and asked him, “Would you care to compete against Suo Chao in the military sports?”
Yang Zhi replied, “Sir, if you give me an order I must obey it.”
Liang said, “In that case you had better go behind this platform, and put on your full armor. Also tell the armorer to accompany you and give you whatever you require in the way of accouterment. You can also take my warhorse, and ride it. Now, be careful, and do not treat your opponent too lightly.”
Yang Zhi expressed his thanks, and retired to put on his armor, etc.
General Li Cheng went and spoke to Suo Chao, “You, of course, cannot be compared to anyone else. Zhou Jin was a pupil of yours, but he has just been defeated by Yang Zhi. If you be also only slightly defeated by Yang Zhi he will make nothing of all the officers at Daming, I will lend you my superb war horse, and also a suit of armor. I hope that you will take care, as I do not want a man with your valor to be defeated.”
Suo Chao thanked him, and then went off to dress.
Grand Secretary Liang got up, and walked to the front of the inspection platform near the railings, and there the attendants brought his chair. He also told the umbrella bearers to open there the large official umbrella made of brown gauze, with a silver button on top, and with three fringes round to make it cool on hot days, and they were to hold it aloft behind his chair. On both sides of him the officers took their positions in two ranks. He then instructed the officer in charge to wave the red flag as a signal that the sports were to proceed. The gongs and drums on both sides were beaten, so that they gave a low rolling sound like thunder. In the center of the parade ground two cannons were fired off. Upon this signal Suo Chao galloped to the parade ground, and took up his position at the foot of the flagstaff near the cannons, surrounded by the soldiers on parade. Yang Zhi also galloped forward, and took his position behind the flag on the opposite side.
On the inspection platform the yellow flag was waved, and upon this all the drums again rolled, and the troops cheered. After that there was absolute silence. A gong was now sounded, and a white flag was hoisted up on a pole on the inspection platform. The officers stood to attention, and there was not a single word spoken after this. A purple flag was now waved on the platform, and the drums rolled again for the third and last time upon which Suo Chao left his position, and rode in front of the platform where he took his arms, and certainly gave the audience the impression that he was a valiant warrior. On his head he wore a steel helmet with a lion design on it, and a large red tassel hanging down at the back. His body was covered by armor in the form of iron leaves linked together; round his waist was a silk belt with a buckle with a tiger’s head design in gold; on his breast and also on his back was a bronze protecting mirror; his outer garment was of red silk with a design of florid circles all over it; on each side there hung a green silk sash; his big riding boots had strips of leather on them in a slanting direction; a bow was at his left side, and a quiver with arrows on his right; in his hand was a large battle-axe; and he was riding the trained war horse, as white as snow, belonging to General Li Cheng.
From the other side Yang Zhi galloped to the front of the platform, where he reined in his horse, with a spear in his hand, and with a very bold appearance. He was wearing a fine steel helmet which glittered in the sun, and had a green tassel hanging down at the back; his armor was made up of iron in the form of plum blossoms and leaves of the elm tree all linked together; his silk sash was of red color; on his breast and back were two protecting metal mirrors; his outer coat was of white silk; and holding it in position was a belt of purple silken texture—his small boots were of undyed leather; at his side was a bow, and also a quiver full of arrows; in his hands he carried a heavy steel spear, and he was riding the Grand Secretary’s red war horse which was capable of galloping about three hundred li against the wind.
The troops and officers on both sides approved of both combatants in whispers, and although they did not yet exhibit their military skill, yet their grand majestic appearance had already made a bold impression.
On the south side of the parade ground an officer now waved a flag with the character “Ling”58 in gold, and riding up on his horse called out, “His Excellency orders both of you to exercise great care. Whoever of you is defeated will have to suffer the punishment, and the one who wins will be handsomely rewarded.”
The two combatants after receiving this order pressed their horses to the center of the parade ground, where they passed each other backwards and forwards several times, holding their arms ready in their hands, and watching for a chance of dealing a serious blow. Suo Chao lost his temper and brandishing his battle-axe challenged Yang Zhi to fight. But Yang Zhi was not afraid of this, and holding his spear in both hands he also charged towards Suo Chao. They met in front of the inspection platform, and there they both used their utmost skill. Backwards and forwards they went; lunging, slashing, and parrying and each time they met there was a general whirl of their arms and the legs of their horses. After more than fifty bouts neither of them had either won or lost.
Grand Secretary Liang was lost in admiration as he watched this marvelous display. The officers kept up a general round of applause. Among the troops on parade there were general remarks passed to one another such as, “We have been in the army for many years, and taken part in several battles, but we have never seen such a deadly conflict between such fine men.” On the inspection platform the two Generals Li Cheng and Wen Da kept up an incessant comment, “Well done! Well done!” In fact Wen Da was so afraid that one of the two combatants would be seriously wounded that he gave the signaler an order to take the flag with the golden character “Ling” on it, and place it between the combatants as a signal that fighting was to cease. At the same time a gong on the inspection platform was sounded as a signal for the two men to stop fighting, but they were both so keen on winning that they would not rein in their horses or leave the spot. As the gong had no effect the signaling officer rushed towards the combatants, and shouted out, “You two must take a rest now! This is His Excellency’s order!”
Yang Zhi and Suo Chao upon hearing this both reined in their horses, and returned each to his respective flag to await further orders. The Generals Li Cheng and Wen Da came forward to the front of the platform, and addressed the Grand Secretary, “Sir, we think that the military skill of both these men is of high order, and their merit is worthy of reward.”
Upon hearing this Grand Secretary Liang was much pleased, and immediately summoned Yang Zhi and Suo Chao. The signaling officer transmitted the order, and both combatants came to the front of the inspection platform, where they dismounted. Two soldiers received their weapons, and the two heroes then ascended the platform where they stood in a respectful attitude.
Grand Secretary Liang gave instructions that each was to receive an ingot of silver and two suits of clothing as presents, and then instructed his adjutant that both men were to receive the rank of Major, and that an order must be issued accordingly—their commission was to take effect from that day.
The two heroes expressed thanks to the Grand Secretary, received the gifts, and leaving the platform they divested themselves of their swords, bows, armor, and put on their ordinary clothes. They then returned to the platform, and saluted the assembled officers. They saluted each other according to the instructions of Liang who then informed them that they both had the rank of Major.
The troops marched off to the accompaniment of their drums.
Grand Secretary Liang invited all the officers to dine with him. They feasted together until dusk when Grand Secretary Liang and all the other officers departed on horseback, the two Majors riding in front with red silk flowers in their caps. Upon entering the East Gate the people stood on both sides of the road, and welcomed the cavalcade.
Grand Secretary Liang on his horse asked, “Why are you people so pleased at seeing this?”
The old men in the crowd responded, “We were born and bred at Daming and never before have we seen such splendid fellows as these two. Today we have seen them on the parade ground, and know that they are equally matched. So why should we not be glad?”
Grand Secretary Liang was very pleased at hearing this. Upon arrival at the headquarters all the officers dispersed.
The comrades of Suo Chao invited him to a banquet in celebration of his feat; but as Yang Zhi had only recently arrived he had no acquaintances who would invite him to a feast; he went to his quarters to sleep. Yang Zhi after this attended to his duties very diligently all day long, but we need not say anything more about that.
We will now come to the point. After the affair at the military sports Grand Secretary Liang was fonder than ever of Yang Zhi, and they were always together.
As Yang Zhi had a monthly allowance, many persons wished to be friendly with him. Now Suo Chao had great respect for Yang Zhi because he knew that he had great military skill.
The time flew very quickly, and it was almost summer. Grand Secretary Liang and his wife Madame Liang were celebrating the Dragon Boat festival with a feast in the private apartments. When they had drunk several cups of wine, and partaken of two courses of food, Madame Liang said, “Sir, you are now commander-in-chief and control the army, but where did this great success and rank come from?”
Grand Secretary Liang replied, “I have been a student of the classics and history ever since I was a boy. I am not blockhead, and how can I be unaware of your father’s generosity? He assisted me a great deal, and I am very grateful to him.”
His wife replied, “Sir, you are aware of my father’s benevolence, but why have you forgotten his birthday?”
Liang said, “I am well aware that your father’s birthday is on the 15th day of the sixth month. A month ago I sent a man with one hundred thousand strings of cash to buy gold, pearls, and other valuables which I will send to your father as a birthday gift. That will shortly be all arranged, and then I will dispatch the presents. About that only one thing keeps me in hesitation. Last year I also bought many precious stones and jewelry and dispatched them to your father at the Eastern Capital, but when about halfway there the escort was attacked by some brigands who took away the whole presents, and up to the present time the brigands have not been captured. Who is the best man to escort the presents this year?”
Madame Liang replied, “In your employ you have plenty of soldiers from whom you can select a reliable man.”
Grand Secretary Liang said, “During the next month I will look round carefully and select a really reliable man whom I will intrust with that job. You need not worry any more about it, as I have a plan.”
They feasted together up to about ten o’clock that evening, but we need not pursue that matter any further.
At that time a new magistrate named Shi Wenbin had just been appointed to Yuncheng County at Jizhou Prefecture in Shandong province. Upon taking up his duties he at once summoned two inspectors and officers whose special work was suppression of banditry. One Inspector was in charge of mounted police consisting of twenty men armed with bows and arrows, and twenty local men. The other Inspector had twenty foot soldiers armed with spear, and also twenty local men.
The Inspector in charge of the mounted police was named Zhu Tong; he was over six feet in height; had a thick beard nearly two feet long; his face was fiery red; and he had piercing eyes. In appearance he resembled Guan Gong, the God of War very much, and he was well known everywhere as the “Beautiful Whiskers.” Previously he was a very wealthy man, and being generous he had become friendly with all the leaders of bandits from whom he had acquired great ability in using arms.
The Inspector in charge of the other platoon was named Lei Heng; he was about five and a half feet tall; had a swarthy complexion; a broad fan-like beard; and great muscular strength. He could jump a distance of twenty feet, and was known everywhere as the “Winged Tiger.” Previously he had been a blacksmith; then had changed his occupation and became a proprietor of rice grinding mills; a butcher; or even a gambler. He was sometimes a great defender of righteousness but he was not of a generous disposition. He was also versed in military skill.
These two inspectors were experts in suppressing brigandage. Now the magistrate summoned them to his yamen, and handing them his written order he said, “Since I took up my duties here I have learned a great deal of a large number of bandits at Liangshan Marsh, a village in this prefecture, who have not only robbed and looted, but have even resisted capture by our troops. I am also afraid that there are other bandits in the various villages. So I want you two to face this difficult matter with our police force—one platoon to go out through the West Gate, and the other through the East Gate. If you find any bandits then arrest them and report the matter at once. In doing this, however, you must not disturb the people. I am aware that at Dongxi village there is a tree, on the top of a hill, with red leaves and there is no other tree like that at anywhere else. I want you to pluck some of those leaves, and upon your presenting them to me I shall know that you have been at that place. If you return without the red leaves I shall not accept any excuse, but shall punish you severely.”
The two inspectors took the order, and left the court. They called the rolls of their platoons, and then filed off according to the order.
We need not follow the platoon under inspector Zhu Tong which left by the West Gate. But the platoon of twenty soldiers under Inspector Lei Heng left by the East Gate, and duly reached the hill at Dongxi village where they plucked some of the red leaves, and then returned to the village. Leaving the village they came to the Lingguan Temple in about a li. Inspector Lei Heng noticed that the gate of the temple was open, and he wondered why this was since he knew there were no priests living there at the time. As he suspected some irregularity he decided to look inside. As it was almost dark they lit torches, and then entered the temple. There they found a big man sleeping on the altar table with naked body. He had made a pillow of a lot of torn clothing, and was snoring loudly.
“How strange! How strange!” Inspector Lei Heng said. “Our magistrate evidently knew that there have been some bandits at the Dongxi village.” He then shouted in a loud voice, and awoke the man who attempted to get up, but was seized by the soldiers and bound with ropes. They then all left the temple, and took their prisoner to the village chief.
Four brave men of Eastern Stream
Captured jewels with bold scheme;
As earthly spirits they did their feat,
As heavenly gods they came to meet.
In the next chapter we will narrate what this village was that Inspector Lei Heng went to.
Footnote
58 “Command” or “order.”