The Yellow Storm《四世同堂》- the Unabridged & Unexpurgated Edition [First ed.]

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By the Same Author

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HARCOURT, BRACE AND COMPANY

New York

COPYRIGHT, I95I, LAU SHAW

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BY

Y. SHU

All rights reserved,

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including

the right to reproduce this book or portions thereof in any form.

first edititm

PRINTED IN THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA

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PART I

The Little Sheep Fold 3

PART II

In the Company of the Tiger i87

PART III

There Is No Retribution 373

eltief eltaraeters

HOUSE NUMBER ONE Chien Mo Yin, the poet; and Mrs . Chien Chien Meng Shih, their son; and his wife and the baby Chien Cheng Shih, the second son Their relatives who live outside Father of young Mrs. Chien-Wang the Brother of old Mrs. Chien-Scholar Yeh

Third

HOUSE NUMBER TWO Fourth Master and Fourt:h Mistress Li and their family and neighbors

HOUSE NUMBER THREE Kuan the Morning Lotus and his wives, Big Red Pepper and Peach Blossom Kaodee and Meydee, daughters of Morning Lotus and Big Red Pepper

HOUSE NUMBER FOUR Widow Ma Cheng Chang Shun, her grandson Little Tsui and his wife, Little Mrs . Tsui Sun the Seventh, the barber; and his wife

HOUSE NUMBER FIVE THE HOUSE OF THE FOUR GENERATIONS Old Chi Chi Chi

Man Chi Tien Yiu, his son; and Mrs . Tien Yiu Rey Shuan, the eldest grandson; and his wife, Yun Mei Rey Feng, the second grandson; and his wife, Fat Chrysanthemum Chi Rey Tang, the third grandson (Old Three) Little Precious, the great-grandson and Niu Niu, the great-granddaughter, children of Rey Shuan and Yun Mei

HOUSE NUMBER SIX John Ting and his wife Little Wen , th e Duke; and his wife, Sunset Glory Master Liu, the shed-builder; and his wife .

OTHER CHARACTERS WITH MAJOR PARTS Sergeant Pai of the police force Lan the Eastern Sun Dr. Kao General Barren Hill Li

PA R T I

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Chapter One

0 only of not celebrating was not afraid of anything. He was afraid his eightieth birthday. In the years of LD GRANDFATHER cm

his strength, he had seen the allied forces of the eight nations attack and enter Peiping, and afterwards he had seen the Manchu-dynasty emperor leave his throne, and after that the never-ending internal strife. Suddenly the nine gates of the city would be closed and the sound of rifles and the sound of guns would not stop day or night. Suddenly the gates of the city would be opened and down . the main streets the victorious war lords, with high carriages and big horses, would fly and run . War did not frighten him; peace did not make him unduly happy. He celebrated each festival as it came and at each New Year he worshiped and sacrificed to the ancestors. He was a citizen, content with his lot, who had accepted himself. He wanted only a measure of quiet and to pass the days without worry for food and clothes. Even if the "scourge of soldiers" should descend or the "rampage of horses," he had plans for meeting them. The most important provision was to keep grain and salt vegetable always in his home, enough for his family to eat for three months. If bullets were flying in the air and soldiers rioting in the streets, he could close the main gate of the compound and place against it a great broken storage jar filled with stones . Thus he would be rid of the trouble and rid of the calamity. Why did Old Grandfather Chi think of preparing grain and salt vegetable for three months only? This was because he always thought in his inmost soul that the walls of Peiping were the most impregnable of any city under heaven and that, whatever the trouble, it must disappear within three months and all would be peaceful again. Peiping and its calamities could be likened to a person with the inevitable- headaches and the little fevers which, in the course of events, pass away in a few days. If you do not believe -just let us see. Old Grandfather Chi knew how to tell the future by counting past events on the joints of his fingers. How many months did the fighting between the war lords of Anhwei and 3

Hopeh last? And how many months did that between the Hopeh and Mukden groups last? Ah ! listen to me! Our Peiping troubles cannot last more than three months. In i937, the year of the seven-seven resistance, Old Grandfather Chi was already seventy-five years old. He had long ago given up concerning himself with household affairs . Now his most important work was to water the pots of flowers in the courtyard, tell the stories of olden times, give food to and change the water for the canary in the cage and, holding the hands of the great-grandson and the great-granddaughter, to wander very slowly out into the main streets of the city and to visit the Hu Kuo Ssu, the Temple of National Protection. But the guns of Marco Polo Bridge sounded and he, the old man of the family, could not help being a little con­ cerned and thoughtful. He was the only old man in the four gener­ ations. His son was already over fifty years of age. The daughter-in-law's body was always ailing and as she walked she bent sideways. Old Grandfather Chi, therefore, called his eldest grandson's wife to his presence. Old Man Chi was very fond of her : first, because she had borne a son and a daughter to the Chi family so that the old man had a great-grandson and a great-granddaughter; second, she knew how to manage the household and understood correct cere­ mony-she was not at all like the wife of the second grandson who had her hair curled into a nauseating hen's nest; third, since his son was not often at home and the daughter-in-law ill most of the time, it was, in fact, the wife of the eldest grandson who managed the house. The eldest grandson was away from home all day teaching school and in the evenings he had to prepare his class work or correct exercises. So the care of the family of ten-their clothes, food, tea; the celebrations and social intercourse with relatives, friends, and neighbors-all fell on and were managed singlehanded by the wife of the eldest grandson. This was not easy to do and so, with the strength of heaven and earth, the old man favored her espe­ cially. Also he was accustomed to the manners and ceremonials of the Manchus. When a daughter-in-law meets her father-in-law, naturally she should curtsy and stand at attention. His daughter-in­ law, however, was a person over fifty and her body was afflicted with constant ailments. If the old man did not allow her to curtsy and stand at attention he would be breaking apart the pattern of family manners. If he allowed her to be ceremonious, his heart was not comfortable. So it was more convenient to consult about im­ portant matters directly with the wife of the eldest grandson. 4

Old Man Chi's back was somewhat bent, but his body was still the tallest in the family. In his years of strength, wherever he went, he had always been called Chi the Big Fellow. With a tall body and a long face he should have been impressive, but his eyes were too small. A smile would change them to slits . People, therefore, seeing only his tall figure did not feel that he had any special points or features to make others afraid of him or respect him. When he was old he became better looking. He had a yellow face with dull skin and snowy eyebrows and beard. The corners of his eyes and his cheeks were pulled together into wrinkles that made it seem as though he were always smiling, and his little eyes were very deeply hidden in the small wrinkles and the white eyebrows. He seemed to people to be always smiling and kind. When he really laughed, his little eyes let out only a tiny bit of light so that it seemed as if he had limitless wisdom which he could not release all at once. He called his eldest grandson's wife to his presence. The old man took his little mustache comb and combed his white beard for a while without saying anything. The old man in his youth had studied only the Three Little Classics and the Miscellaneous Six Words. In his years of strength he had eaten all kinds of bitterness. Singlehanded he had bought the house and set up a household. His son also had studied for three years only in a small private school and had then been apprenticed. It was only when the family had arrived at the grandson's generation that the pressure of the new ways, to attend the universities, had reached the family. Now, though he was the Honorable Great-grandfather, he still felt that his learning was not as good as that of his son ( who could still repeat the Analects of Confucius and also write a few ideo­ graphs which were praised by the fortunetellers ) ; even less could his learning compare to his grandsons'. He was afraid that his son and his grandsons would look down on him . Because of this, when he was talking to one of the younger generation, he was always silent for a while to show that he could think. He should not have done this to the wife of his eldest grandson because, although she knew a few ideographs, if she were not calling the children there was in her mouth from morning to night talk only of oil, salt, sauce, and vinegar. However, since he had already formed the habit, it could not be helped but to have the eldest grandson's wife stand waiting a little while. The oldest grandson's wife had never been to school and so had no school name. After her marriage her husband had given her one, the name of Yun Mei, Elegant Plum Blossom, much as if he had given her an honorary degree. But the two words Yun Mei did not 5

seem to take root in the family. The father-in-law and the mother­ in-law and Old Man Chi did not have the habit of calling people by name. Others felt that she was a housewife and had no relation­ ship either with elegance or with plum flowers. Moreover, the old grandfather thought that Yun Mei, Elegant Plum Blossom, and yun mei, to transport coal, having the same sound should have the same meaning. So he said, "She is busy enough all the time. Why are you so cruel as to make her carry coal?" After this, even her husband was not quite comfortable in calling her name. Therefore, apart from "Elder Sister-in-law" and "Mama" and such family salu­ tations, she was called "Mother of Little Precious." Little Precious was her small son. The Mother of Little Precious was not bad looking. She was of medium height with a round face and two large sparkling eyes. Walking, talking, eating, working, her movements were all rapid but even though quick were not lacking in grace. She combed her hair and washed and powdered her face so quickly that sometimes by chance the powder was even and then she was more beautiful. If by chance the powder was put on unevenly she was not so pleas­ ant to the eyes. When she did not get the powder even and was laughed at by the others, she was not annoyed but laughed at herself along with them. She was good tempered by nature. When Old Man Chi had combed his whiskers enough, he took the palm of his hand and smoothed down his beard twice and then spoke to the Mother of Little Precious, "How much is there still of our grain?" The Mother of Little Precious glanced back and forth twice with her large and liquid eyes. She had already guessed what was in the old man's mind so she answered very promptly and concisely, "Still enough for three months' eating." There was not in fact that much grain in the house, but she did not want to tell the truth and make that much more worry for the old man. Toward the old man and to her son and daughter she knew how to use well-intentioned subterfuges. "Salt vegetable?" The old man brought out the second impor­ tant question. She answered even more quickly, "Also enough to eat. Salted and dried horse-radish, salted chives, turnips salted a long time-we have all." She knew that even if there were not enough and the old man wanted to inspect she could go out to the market and buy some in time. "Good ." The old man was satisfied. "With the grain for three months and salt vegetable, even if the heavens fall, the Chi family 6

will be able to hold out." But the old man did not think with this to make an end of his concern. He must tell the eldest grandson's wife the whole of his philosophy concerning the matter. "The Japanese devils have again raised trouble. Hum-let them make trouble! In the year of the Boxer Rebellion, when the eight countries allied and fought their way into Peking, even the emperor ran away but they did not take my head. If the eight countries could not, how can a few small Japanese devils? How far can they jump? Ours is a precious place, a sacred place. No matter how great the tumult and the confusion it cannot last over three months . We, however, must not be too careless or too bold . We must at the least have mixed-flour bread and salt vegetable to eat." This was the philosophy. As Old Man Chi said a sentence, the Mother of Little Precious nodded her head or said the one word "yes." She had already heard the old man's words at least fifty times but she acted as though this were the first time, that they were new to her ears. The old man, seeing that there was someone who appreciated his words, could not help raising his voice in order to enhance the force of his per­ suasion. "Your father-in-law, although he is over fifty, is far from perfect in managing household affairs, far behind us . Your mother-in-law is a bundle of illnesses . If you talk a matter over with her; all she can do is to groan. This family, I tell you, relies on you and me. If we did not worry our heads for the whole family they would not even have trousers to wear. Do you not agree?" The Mother of Little Precious did not like to say she agreed and she did not like to say she disagreed . She could only drop her eyelids and smile. The old man asked, "Has Rey Shuan not come back?" Rey Shuan was his eldest grandson. "He has four or five classes today," she answered. "Hum-the guns are sounding and he doesn't hurry back! Rey Feng and his crazy woman?" The old man was inquiring about his second grandson and his wife, the woman with the hair curled into a tousled hen's nest. "The two of them-" She did not know how best to answer. "The young husband and wife, always like oil in honey, cannot separate for a quarter of an hour or for a moment. They are not afraid of people laughing at them." The Mother of Little Precious smiled. "The young couples of the present day are all like that." "I cannot consider that to be right." The old man to "cut a nail 7

in two or to split iron" said, "It is all because your mother-in-law spoiled her. I never saw the like. A young married woman, all day at the Lake Park, the Arcade Market, and the uhhh-what cinema?" "I can't say either." She really could not tell because she had never had an opportunity to see a movie. "Where is Young Three?'' Young Three was Rey llang. The old man called him Young Three because he had not yet married. In fact he would soon graduate from the university. "The Third Brother has taken Little Niu Niu for a walk." Niu Niu was the sister of Little Precious . "Why did he not go to school?" "The Third has just been talking a long time to me. He said that if we still do not fight the Japanese, even Peiping cannot be de­ fended." The Mother of Little Precious said this very quickly and very clearly. "As he talked his face became red, bright red . He clenched his fist and wrung his hands but I continued to exhort him, 'We of the Chi family have not · offended the Japanese, they certainly cannot visit their anger on our heads.' My intentions in speaking to him in this way were good, were to help him to over­ come his anger. Huh-how was I to know? He looked sternly at me as if I were going in the same direction as the Japanese and of one breath with them. I did not dare to say any more. Clutching Niu Niu, he went out angrily. You see, sir. Was it my fault?" Old Man Chi thought awhile in silence and then sighed and said, "I am not at all comfortable about Young Three. I am afraid that sooner or later there will be trouble." Just at this point, Little Precious in the courtyard whined, "Grandfather, Grandfather, you have returned ! Have you brought any peaches for me? What, none? Not even one? Grandfather you certainly are no good." The Mother of Little Precious called from the room, "Little Precious, you must not be naughty to Grandfather. If you talk that way again I will beat you." Little Precious made no more noise. Chi Tien Yiu, the grand­ father, came in. The Mother of Little Precious went quickly to get tea. The grandfather, Chi Tien Yiu, was a black-mustached man of over fifty, of medium height, somewhat fat, with a round face, large eyes, hair and mustache both thick and black-the right appearance for the dignified manager of a shop. In fact, he was now the mana­ ger of a cloth shop three fronts wide. His footsteps were heavy and at each step the flesh on his face quivered. He had been in business 8

so long that the expression of complaisance was habitual . On his nose there were always a few laughter wrinkles. Today, however, his expression was not quite right. He was forcing himself to smile, but in his eyes was not the light that should accompany a smile. The wrinkles of the smile on his face did not seem to be tight. Even while he smiled he did not dare to lift his head with full expres­ sion and dignity. "How is it, Old First?" Old Man Chi smoothed his white beard very gently with his hands. The old man with the black mustache sat down rather awk­ wardly as if the old man with the white beard had done something to oppress his spirit. He gave his father a look and dropped his head and said in a small voice, "The situation is not good." "Will there be war?" the Mother of Little Precious asked. "The hearts of the people have no peace." Old Man Chi slowly stood up and said, "Mother of Little Precious, prepare the storage jar for holding the front gate."

Chapter Two �HE HOUSE of the Chi family was in the west city near the \/ Temple of National Protection in the street called the Little Sheep Fold. No one living there knew what the place had been in the past. Perhaps it had really been a sheep fold because it was not like the usual residential streets of Peiping which are straight for the most part. It was shaped instead like a thin-waisted gourd. The neck of the gourd opened into the west main street of the city and was, moreover, very long, very narrow, and very dirty. The entrance was so small that if a person did not look carefully or make inquiry of the postman he could easily miss it. And having entered he might not dare go forward until he saw the piled-up refuse and garbage along under the walls which told him, as the flotsam float­ ing on the sea had told Columbus, that people lived near, and gave him the courage to go forward. His eyes would brighten, however, a few tens of steps further, for he would see the chest of the gourd, an open space, forty paces -two hundred feet-from east to west, and thirty paces-one hun­ dred and fifty feet-from north to south . In the center were two big locust trees. On three sides of this space were the gates to the homes of six or seven families . On the further side of the chest was another small lane-the waist of the gourd-beyond which was another open space larger 9

by two or three times than the chest. This was the belly of the gourd. The chest and belly had probably been an imperial sheep fold but to know for certain we will have to wait for the researches of the historians. The Chi family house-Number Five-was in the chest of the gourd with the compound gate facing west, diagonally across from one of the big locust trees . When Old Man Chi had been looking for a house it had been the location of this one that had decided him to buy. He liked this location. The entrance from the main street was so narrow that no one would notice it and this made him feel secure, and that there were six or seven compounds where people lived made him feel warm and comfortable. The children could play under the two big trees, for no carts or horses could go through . There were also the locust pods, and the locust flowers, and the green locust caterpillars, which could be toys for the chil­ dren. And although it was a humble alley, it was not inconvenient for shopping. On the west it opened into a main street; and behind it, was the Temple of National Protection in the courts of which a fair was held six days a month. Because of all these things Old Man Chi had decided to buy the house. The house itself had no distinction. It had not the traditional harmonious layout, for the court was long from east to west and narrow from north to south. It was so long and narrow that the north and south houses could not be opposite each other. If they had been, the court would have become a passageway like that between ca bins on a steamer. The south house-facing north-was near the front gate and had two rooms. The five-room northern house faced the south wall. The two eastern rooms were at the far eastern end of the court. North of the eastern house was a small open space in which was the latrine. Beyond the south wall was an incense- and candle-making busi­ ness, and a court for drying the incense in which was a row of willow trees. This was fortunate for the Chi family. Without the trees they would have had nothing but barrenness to look at beyond the south wall as they stepped from their rooms. Nor were the houses in the compound well built. Except for the woodwork in the north house there was nothing which could be mentioned with praise. Since belonging to Old Man Chi, the side wall of the south house and the back wall of the east house, had each been down several times. And the walls between their court and those of the neighbors were made of broken brick so that every year during the rainy season some part of them was bound to fall. 10

The court was of packed earth with not even a paved walk. In the rainy season the water collecting in the court could be a foot deep and everyone had to be barefoot to come in and go out. Old Man Chi ten parts loved this house. The main reason was that he had bought this property himself, and so, no matter how poor the form and structure, it was worthy of pride. Moreover, from the time he had acquired this house, there had been additions to his family, and to this day there had been no losses, and there were now four generations in the house. When the eldest grandson, Rey Shuan, was married, the whole house had been thoroughly repaired. This had been done with Chi Tien Yiu's money. Chi Tien Yiu wanted to change the house his father had bought into a castle to be handed down from generation to generation. He would then have fulfilled his duty above (to the old man) and below (to his sons and his grandsons) . The rotting wood was all taken out and new wood put in . The broken bricks were replaced with solid bricks. The woodwork was painted and varnished. After this rebuilding, although the house could never be distinguished in appearance, in quality it became the first or second in the Little Sheep Fold. When Old Man Chi looked at the renewed house he was satis­ fied and gave a deep sigh . On his sixtieth birthday he made the decision to retire. His labor was then spent entirely on improving the courtyard of his compound. Under the south wall he planted begonias, jade-hairpin lilies, snowballs, and the tiger-ears grass that is used for making medicine to bring down fevers. In the center of the court he had four huge pots of pomegranate trees, two pots of oleanders, and many little plants that would flower without too much trouble. In front of the house he had set out two date trees, one which bore large white dates and the other sweet-sour dates shaped like lotus seeds. Looking at his own house, his own son and grandsons, and at the flowers and shrubs he had planted himself, Old Man Chi felt that his work of a lifetime had not been in vain. The walls of Peiping were the eternal walls; his house was the house that would never decay. There were, in all, nine rooms in the three houses of the com­ pound. Tien Yiu and his wife, taking charge of Little Precious, lived in the south house. The middle room of the five in the north house was the parlor. East and west of the parlor were the bed­ rooms of Rey Shuan and Rey Feng. The rooms to the far east and the far west had each its own door into the court. The one on the east was Rey Tang's room and the one on the west was Old Man 11

Chi's. One room in the east house was the kitchen and the other place to store grain, coal, kindling, and-in the winter-the pome­ granate trees and the oleanders. In the beginning, when Old Man Chi had first bought these houses and the compound, he had rented out the east and south houses so that he might not feel the court too empty. Today, how­ ever, his own son and grandsons were almost more in number than the compound could hold. All the rooms were filled with his own people and the old man's heart was full of happiness. He was like an old tree that had filled the court with its branches .. He was satisfied also with the Little Sheep Fold. He had now lived there continuously for forty or fifty years while the neighbors came today and moved away tomorrow. Those who had stayed ten or twenty years were few indeed . They lived and they died, they were prosperous and they lost what they had, and only Old Man Chi had sent down roots in this place. Old Man Chi did not try to keep in favor with those who had become prosperous and left this lowly place, nor had he any way to help those whose fortunes had declined and could not live even at this humble address. He knew only that he had always been there and had not moved. Slowly he became the Old Man, the Patriarch, of the Little Sheep Fold. Newcomers, on arrival, had first to go to his house to pay their neighborly respects, and when the neighbors had weddings or funerals, or gave parties, he wa s-by right-the most honored guest. He was the Old Man Star-the Star of Longevity-represent­ ing multiplying and prosperity for the whole neighborhood. In his satisfaction he dared not indulge in soaring imagination. He hoped only that he would in his own courtyard raise the mat­ shed of joyful occasions and celebrate his eightieth birthday. He did not like to think about what would happen after he was eighty. If the Old Heavenly Grandfather allowed him to live longer-very good. If the Old Heavenly Grandfather took him back, he would shut his eyes and go, and his son and grandsons, wearing white mourning garments, would take him outside the city. In the chest of the gourd were neighbors on three sides only. The one gate on the west side had been filled in. On the south side were two gates, each with the "Pure Water" style of gate roof, and the houses in these compounds were set in traditional pattern and formal order. On the north side were two gates also to two compounds. They were small and in each of them were three or four families. It was as though the south was the gentleman's dis­ trict and the north was the poor man's district. On the east were three gates; the most southerly one was that of the Chi family. a

12

Separated by only a wall from the Chi family compound was an­ other long court in which lived three fa milies . Further on was an­ other compound with two courtyards-front and back-with over twenty rooms in which lived at least seven or eight families . The standing of these people was not as high as that of the people in the other compounds since this was considered a "big mixed-court compound"-a tenement. Old Man Chi did not think much of this compound and so did not treat these people as neighbors. To cover this up he would say that only a small part of this compound was in the chest of the gourd-that the greater part was in the belly -so the people who lived there could not be accounted as close neighbors, as though the chest and the waist were separated by ten miles. Old Man Chi treated those who lived in the other five com­ pounds according to a classification of his own-as he saw them in his own eyes. The compound he most respected was on the south side-the gate farthest to the west-Number One. Within this gate lived a family named Chien. Mr. Chien and Chi Tien Yiu were of an age. Mr. Chien's two sons had both been in school with Rey Shuan. The elder one was married and the second son was engaged but not yet married. In the eyes of the neighbors the Chien family was queer. The members of the family were always ceremonious to all, whoever they were, and always kept a certain distance, as if they respected everyone or respected none. The clothes of all in the family were always ten years or even twenty behind the fashion. Old Man Chien, even to this day, still wore in winter the wind-hood of red wool. The women of the family never went outside the compound gate. When it became necessary for them to buy needles and thread or green vegetables from a peddler at the gate, they would open the gate a tiny slit only, as though they were afraid a secret might slip out. The men, although they came and went as men in other families, were very careful in their actions so none ever knew what was in their minds . Old Man Chien had no work and seldom left the compound. Only when there were signs of wine on his face did he stand­ wearing his very old-fashioned clothes-outside his gate for a while, and lift his head to look at the flowers of the locust trees or smile at the children . What his financial situation was, what happiness of life his family had, what sufferings, no one knew. There was never any sound from that courtyard. Whenever there were mar­ riages or funerals in the Little Sheep Fold, or when those came who performed the boat dance or those with trained monkeys, the neighbors would all go out to enjoy the excitement but the Chien 13

family gate would remain as tightly closed as ever. They did not seem to live as other people lived, but to live throughout the year as though they were avoiding their creditors, or as though they were refugees. Of those living in the Little Sheep Fold only Old Man Chi and Rey Shuan, the eldest grandson, went often to see the Chien family and knew something of their "secrets." The fact was, how­ ever, that the Chien family had no secrets, and Old Man Chi knew this, but he would not say so to anyone. It was as though he had a duty to keep this secret for the Chien family and thus raise his own status. The Chien family courtyard was not large and it was full of flowers. Many of the plants in Old Man Chi's courtyard had come from there. In Old Mr. Chien's rooms, besides the flowers, were only old books and faded pictures . His daily work was to water the plants, to read, to paint pictures, and to recite poetry. When espe­ cially happy he would drink two small cups of artemisia wine which he made himself. Mr. Chien was a poet but his poetry was never shown to anyone; it was for his own appreciation. His life was ar­ ranged according to his own ideals and it did not matter to him whether it was practical or not. Sometimes he suffered hunger but when hungry he would not say a word . . Mr. Chien's elder son taught a few hours a day in a middle school and was like his father in his interests. The second son was the most unpoetical person in the family. He drove a truck. Old Mr. Chien did not object to his son driving a truck but he did not like the smell of oil on his son . The second son very seldom came home, but not because of any difference of opinion or quarrel with his father. And the women of the Chien family were not kept in the compound because of any despotism of their men, but because the style of their clothes was so old they were ashamed to show them­ selves. Mr. Chien and his son had no desire to manage others, but their lack of ability to get money and their interest in the arts kept them from thinking about clothes. Their women could only habitually hide themselves and by not coming out conceal their disadvantage. Concerning the intercourse between Old Man Chi and Mr. Chien-Old Man Chi always went to see Mr. Chien but Mr. Chien never went to see Old Man Chi. If Old Man Chi brought a bottle of wine as a gift to Mr. Chien, Mr. Chien would immediately send his son with a gift that was two or three times as expensive. He could never take anything from anyone for nothing. In his hands money always melted, because he never kept accounts. If he had 14

money he spent it, if he had no money he thought of poetry. His elder son had the same temperament and would rather stay at home to paint pictures than to teach a few more hours at school and so get more money. By temperament and learning and interests Old Man Chi and Mr. Chien should not have been friends, but they were friends. Old Man Chi needed an older friend before whom he could spread his "old grain and rotting sesame," and he also admired Mr. Chien's learning and character. And though Mr. Chien had never gone out of his way to make friends, he would not refuse anyone who wanted to make friends with him. He was thoughtful and detached but amiable to those who came to see him. Although fifty-seven or -eight years old Chien Mo Yin's hair showed very little white. He was short of stature and plump. He had a full mouth of shining, even, oily black teeth. His thick body and simple ways made him very lovable. He had a round face and big eyes, which he often closed to think. The tones of his voice were low but modest and kindly so that people felt comfortable with him. Mr. Chien would talk to Old Man Chi about poetry and cal­ ligraphy. Old Man Chi would not understand what he was talking about. Old Man Chi would talk about the great-grandson who had again burst into bloom-this time with measles; how the second daughter-in-law had again curled her hair into a hen's nest. Mr. Chien would not be interested. They seemed, however, to have an understanding : you talk and I listen-I talk and you listen. Mr. Chien would show paintings to Old Man Chi. Old Man Chi would nod his head and say, "Good, good." Old Man Chi would talk about the everyday affairs of his family and Mr. Chien would from time to time say "Good, good," and "Really," and "Yes, yes," and make other simple replies. If there was left nothing else that he could say, he would shut his eyes and continuously nod his head. Toward the end of the conversation the two men would come to the cultivation of their gardens. Then the talk of the two would flow like a river and both would get the happiness that is not easy to achieve. Although Old Man Chi's interest in the pomegranate was that it should bear more and bigger fruit and Mr. Chien's in­ terest was in the beauty of the fruit and the redness of the blos­ soms, yet methods of cultivation were after all a necessity for both, and gav. e them the opportunity to "polish jade together." Having talked exhaustively about the flowers, Mr. Chien would often keep Old Man Chi to share his simple meal. This gave the women of the Chien family a chance to talk with Old Man Chi 15

about the places where their families were long and those of the neighbors short. At such times Mr. Chien could not but admit that in our lives besides writing poetry and painting pictures there are also the problems of oil, salt, sauce, and vinegar. Rey Shuan sometimes went with his grandfather to the Chien family home. Sometimes he went alone. When he went by him­ self, eight or nine times out of ten it was because he had been in a temper with his wife or someone else. He was a man who could use reason to control himself, and although sometimes his anger was moved, he would not shout or make an uproar. He would, without a sound, melt away to the Chien family and with the Chiens-father and son-talk a while about affairs far from those of the family, or the nation, so that the anger in his chest became dispersed. Besides the Chien family Old Man Chi liked the Li family in Number Two, the gate opposite the Chiens'. The Old Couple Li and Old Man Chi were the only ones of their generation in the whole of the Little Sheep Fold. Fourth Master Li's height was also not more than an inch shorter than that of Old Man Chi. This was not because his body was that much shorter than Old Man Chi's but because his back was more bent. He had the sign of his profession-a large permanent swelling on his neck. Twenty or thirty years ago in Peiping there were many men with such swell­ ings on their necks. They all belonged to one profession-that of moving people's possessions from one house to another. If people had valuables they wanted moved, such as large porcelain vases, or clocks, or camphor-wood chests, or furniture of fine hard rosewood, these men would bind them firmly and, placing narrow boards on their necks, carry them away. These men walked with a steady even gait. There was great strength in their necks to be able to carry such loads and to be able to guarantee that there would be no damage. People called the men of this profession the "Bent necks," but from th e time when the small handcarts began to appear they changed from "Bent necks" to "Cart pullers." Young people were still eating the food of this profession but on their necks were no swellings. Fourth Master Li had undoubtedly been handsome in his youth . And now, although there was a large swelling on his neck, and his back had long been bent, and his age only a little less than that of Old Man Chi, there were not many wrinkles on his long face, and his eyes were not dimmed. When he smiled or laughed his eyes and teeth so flashed that people could still see the beauty that had been his in youth. Fourth Master Li owned the compound at Number Two and 16

rented out some of the houses to two other families. Old Man Chi liked Fourth Master Li because he was a good man. In his business Fourth Master Li always used his heart to the utmost. Sometimes when moving for the poor neighbors he asked only the cost of his food and did not mention wages. Outside his profession and espe­ cially in times of trouble he was one who helped the neighbors. For example, if there was the scourge of mutinied soldiers, he was the one to take the risk and face the bullets, go to the main streets and make inquiries. He would come back and tell all the people what they had to do to meet the situation . "The city gates are going to be closed," he would shout from under the big locust trees . "The city gates are going to be closed; quickly prepare a store of food." When the trouble was over and the gates again opened he would call, "It is peaceful again; there is no · trouble now. You can let your hearts rest." Old Man Chi counted himself the Old Man Star of the neigh­ borhood, yet in service done for the people he felt ashamed that he was not equal to Fourth Master Li. The son of the Li family was also a "Bent neck," and the Li family courtyard was a dirty and noisy little ''mixed compound," but when the two men met under the big locust trees they would stand at attention, facing each other; then the younger generations of both families would quickly bring out stools, for they knew that the conversation of the two old men would be mostly about what had happened fifty or sixty years ago, and that at the least it would take one or two hours. Number Four, the compound next to Fourth Master Li's, was also a small mixed compound in which three families lived. There were the barber, Sun the Seventh, and his wife; there were Old Widow Ma, and her daughter's son who had the profession of wandering around the streets with a music box which had a needle that went round and round; and there was the rickshaw puller, Little Tsui, with a head like a seven-cornered, eight-lobed squash . Little Tsui, besides pulling a rickshaw, often beat his wife. Number Six was also a small mixed court. The professions of those living in this court when compared to those in Number Four were very little higher. In the north house-the one facing south and therefore the best.-lived John Ting, a believer in Chris­ tianity. He worked as table-boy in the British Embassy on Lega­ tion Street, called by him the English Palace. In the small house on the north in Number Six lived the mat­ shed builder, Master Liu and his wife. Besides building the mat­ sheds which sheltered the courts from the sun in the summer, or 17

were put up for ceremonial occasions such as weddings and funerals and birthday parties for those with the good fortune to live for a long time, Master Liu practiced the traditional stylized boxing and belonged to a club of lion dancers . He could be seen in the court­ yard any morning taking his exercise and perfecting the steps of attack and defense; and on high festival occasions, with the club to which he belonged, he would dance the lion dance for the spectators. Master Liu was the hind legs of the lion . In the east rooms lived Little Wen and his wife, both of whom could sing opera. On the surface they were amateurs, but secretly they took money. Old Man Chi always kept a suitable distance, not near or far, from the people of Number Four and Number Six. When there were special events in their lives he would help according to his ability and if nothing was happening each would mind his own affairs. But this was not Fourth Master Li's way. He was happy to help anyone, not only those who lived in Number Four and Number Six and were his friends, but even those in Number Seven-the big mixed court that Old Man Chi did not like. Even so, -Fourth Master had often to bear the criticism of Fourth Mistress, and her scoldings. Fourth Mistress Li had a head of white hair and a pair of large nearsighted eyes. Almost every day she reviled "that Old Thing." She felt that Fourth Master Li had not helped according to the fullness of his ability, and her scoldings were intended to get him to see the right and do it bravely. The children in the Little Sheep Fold-no matter how plain, no matter how dirty and smelly�were all "precious ones" to Mistress Li. And although she did not feel that she could call the grownups "dears" to their faces, in her heart they were all her big "precious ones," her big "dears." Her eyes could not see clearly who was ugly and who was beautiful, and her heart would not distinguish the poor from the rich, the old from the young. She felt that all people were worthy of pity and worthy of love, and that all needed the help of the two old people. Because of these things, the people in the Little Sheep Fold­ though they could not but respect Old Man Chi and keep at a dis­ tance-were always warmly loving and affectionate toward the Old Couple Li. If they had any sorrow they went to Fourth Mistress Li and appealed as to an authority, and Fourth Mistress Li would at once push Fourth Master to go and help them . Moreover, the sympathetic tears of Fourth Mistress were both sincere and plentiful. Number Three, the house between the Chi family and the Chien 18

family, was the nail in Old Man Chi's eyes. Before the Chi family house had been repaired Number Three was the handsomest house in the Little Sheep Fold. Even after the Chi family had repaired their house, in form it was still far behind Number Three. First : because outside the gate of Number Three, under the old locust tree, there was a screen wall on which the white plaster was very white and the black plaster very black, and in the center was a carefully painted red ideograph "Fu" for fortune; and there was no screen wall outside the Chi family gate, and no screen wall in front of any other gate in the chest of the Little Sheep Fold. Second : the gate roof of Number Three was in the classic "Pure Water" style, and that of the Chi · family was only bricks piled into a "Flowery Crown." Third : Number Three was a harmoniously laid out compound, with the houses built on four sides of the court and set in the traditional manner. And the court itself was paved with square bricks. Fourth : every summer Number Three would call Master Liu of Number Six to build a cool shelter of new mats over the court, and the Chi family shade came from the not very large date trees whose shadow was not extensive. Old Man Chi could not but be jealous. About their manner of living Old Man Chi felt even more op­ pression of spirit. The master of the house at Number Three­ Kuan the Morning Lotus-had two wives . The second was a sing­ song girl, one who sang in the Mukden style and had at one time been a favorite in the tea houses, by name Peach Blossom. Mr. Kuan was more than fifty years old, more or less the same age as Chi Tien Yiu, but in looks he seemed only about thirty; and he was smarter looking than anyone of thirty. Every day Mr. Kuan shaved and every ten days he was certain to have his hair cut. A white hair appearing was a white hair pulled. His clothes, whether Chinese style or foreign style, were all made of the finest material; or even if the material was not of the best, they were made in the most fashionable and well-fitting style. He was a short man with a long face, little hands and little feet-small and in every part well proportioned. The harmonious five features and four limbs, added to the graceful gestures and the fashionable clothes, made him look like a shiny toy balloon newly blown up. Although he was a small man he had a big manner; his air was great. In ordinary times he associated with famous people only or with noblemen. In his home he had a cook, a manservant who understood ceremonials exceedingly well, and a young maidservant who wore satin slippers. When guests came he would send for barbecued duck and bamboo­ leaf-green wine of great age. He could play at mah-jongg for at 19

least forty-eight rounds in a sitting, and before and after meals he would listen to popular drum songs and the old operas. He was very polite indeed to the neighbors with some position, but aside from the occasions of ceremony, he maintained no close relation­ ship with them. But he saw Fourth Master Li, and Master Liu, the barber, Sun the Seventh, and Little Tsui, as their occupations only, and did not think of them as men. 'Old Liu, come tomorrow and take away the mat-shed." "Fourth Master, go to the east city this afternoon and get that table for me. Do not be late." "Little Tsui, if you run so slowly, I will not use your rickshaw again-do you hear?'' This was the way he always treated them; very short and with authoritative orders . "Madame" Kuan was a tall woman . She was almost fifty years old but still loved to wear red clothes so her nickname was Big Red Pepper. Mrs . Kuan had many wrinkles on her face and many freckles on her nose. No matter how much she powdered and rouged she could not cover up the wrinkles and the black spots. Her air was even greater than that of her husband, and each motion and each action was designed to be like the Dowager Empress. She liked, even more than Mr. Kuan, to cultivate friends and was more capable at this than he. She could at one stretch play mah-jongg for two days and two nights and still maintain her loftiness and dignity. Mrs. Kuan had borne to Mr. Kuan two daughters only, so Mr. Kuan had married Peach Blossom in the hope of the birth of a fat son. Peach Blossom, up to now, had not borne the son but had begun to quarrel with the first wife, and the amount of noise she made in these engagements and her manner in conducting them was as though she had ten sons behind her as reinforcements. She was not beautiful but her eyebrows and eyes were charming. From morning to evening her eyebrows and her eyes were always "run­ ning about her face." The quality of the two girls-Kaodee and Meydee-was not bad; and between the instructions of their two mothers they knew how to dress and, moreover, to run their eye­ brows all over their faces. Old Man Chi, although jealous of house Number Three, could not respect the men and women in the house. He most especially disliked their clothes, and that the wife of his second grandson was always competing in these with the women of the Kuan family; and also that Young Three, Rey Tang, was often with Meydee. Because of all this, when he was in a bad temper he would point his finger toward the southwest and say to his son and his grand­ sons, "Don't learn from them. You can learn nothing good from 20

them." In this way he also gave a hint that if Young Three con­ tinued to make friends with Meydee the old man would put him out of the family.

Chapter Three

0 placed againsthadthehisgate. broken storage jar filled with stones and LD MAN cm

Fourth Master Li had given the warning from under the big locust trees . "Old neighbors, get food into your homes. The city gates are closed." This warning made Old Man Chi feel that he was like Chu Ke Liang, the farsighted warrior statesman of the Three Kingdoms. He wanted to stand behind his own gate and say to Fourth Master Li, "I have already made all necessary prepara­ tions." In his heart he was very pleased with himself. In the midst of his satisfaction he became overhopeful. "Before . three days are gone, all will be again peaceful." His son, Tien Yiu, was a man who took responsibility. The longer the city gates were closed the longer he stayed in his cloth shop and would not come home. His daughter-in-law, bent and ailing, sighed deeply when she heard of the trouble the Japanese devils were making. In her heart she feared that she might die during these days when the coffin could not be carried outside the city. She was so worried that her illness became worse. Rey Shuan pulled his brows together tightly and said not a word. He was the man of affairs for the family and could not in time of trouble indulge in long sighs or even short ones. Rey Feng and his "modern wife" gave no thought to national affairs or to home affairs. The great gate had been sealed by the grandfather so all they could do was to stay in their room and play poker, and there was Old Grandfather gabbing in the court­ yard. The two looked at each other, shrugged their shoulders, and stuck out their tongues . The Mother of Little Precious, though only twenty-eight years old, was already fully tested in calamity and trouble. She sympa­ thized with the old man's concern and worry but at the same time she was not afraid and not nervous. Her mind was older than her body. She saw clearly that calamity was inevitable and real, and that it could not be avoided. Still, if a person wanted to live, he must seek a cleft in the trouble so as to escape; that is, do all one could and trust in Heaven for the rest. Born in this age one must, 21

from time to time, go out bravely to face dangers but one must also try to avoid the most dangerous. One must put carefulness into the boldness, be able to fight and to retreat. One must suffer and take suffering as part of living, and even from suffering taste some sweetness. This could make one willing to live. With a word here and a reply there, she and Old Man Chi talked . Through her tears she thought of past troubles and hoped that this danger would be one that passed quickly. She listened to the old man's conclusions-that it would all be over in three days­ smiled and said, "That will be wonderful." She then expressed her own ideas . "I do not understand what the Japanese devils are up to. We-I can guarantee that none of us have offended them. We all pass our days peacefully and quietly. Is that not better than to take swords and spears and fight? I guess that the Japanese devils are natural trouble makers . Don't you think so?" The old man thought awhile and said, "From the time when I was young we have always had the little Japanese trying to bully us and I cannot find any logic in it. I only hope that this time the trouble will not develop further. The Japanese love the little bar­ gain. Perhaps this time they have taken a fancy to the Marco Polo Bridge." "Why should they fancy a bridge-the Marco Polo Bridge?'' The Mother of Little Precious was confused. "A big bridge-you cannot eat it and you cannot take it away." "But there is a stone lion carved on each post of the railing of the bridge. If I were in charge of this business, I would take those lions and give them to the Japanese. In fact, set there on the bridge, they are of no use to anyone." "Hum ! I do not understand. Why should they want those lions?" She was still confused. ''That is why they are little Japanese. They covet whatever they see." The old man was very pleased that he was able to under� stand the Japanese mind so well. "During the Boxer Rebellion the Japanese soldiers entered Peking. Street by street they searched for things. At first they wanted only jewelry and watches, but later they took even brass buttons." "Very likely they mistook the brass for gold-'Things' that they are with eyes not yet open." The Mother of Little Precious said this with anger-likening them to newborn puppies. She herself would not take even a blade of grass that was not hers. "Big Sister-in-law," Rey Tang suddenly appeared and shouted to her. "Yo!" She gave a start. "Old Three, what do you want?" 22

"You might keep your mouth shut for a while. You talk until my head aches." There was none in the family who dared oppose the old grand­ father except Rey Tang and Little Precious. And now, though Rey Tang was telling his sister-in-law to stop talking, his words carried a censure of the old grandfather. Old Grandfather Chi immediately caught the implication. "What! You do not want to hear us talking? Why not shut your ears?" "I certainly do not enjoy listening to such a conversation." Rey Tang was very like his grandfather in appearance. He was thin and tall. But in their thinking, he and his grandfather were separated by several hundred years. His eyes were small but full of spirit. The pupils were like two bright black beans. In school, he was always the first to be chosen in any basketball game, and as they played his two black beans followed the ball wherever it went. When the ball came into his hands, his mouth would shut tightly as though swallowing a mouthful of food. The expression of his eyes and mouth revealed his character. His temper was quick but he had good judgment. His eyes now moved from the grandfather to the sister-in-law and from his sister-in-law back to his grandfather in the same way as he watched the opponents on the ball courf. "The Japanese want Marco Polo Bridge! Nonsense! They want Peiping, Tientsin-they want North China-they want all of China." "That will do, that will do, Old Three. Don't talk so much." The sister-in-law was afraid that Old Three would anger his grand­ father. The fact was, however, that Old Man Chi never got really angry with his grandson, and even if it had been the great-grandson who had lost his temper, the great-grandfather would have apologized. "Big Sister-in-law, there you go ! No matter who is right and who is wrong, no matter how serious the problem, you are always urging a word less." Old Three was not ten parts annoyed with his sister­ in-law but he disliked her continuous efforts to comfort people and to make compromises. Now his anger, though it had been roused by his sister-in-law, was really directed against the general principle : he did not like the lack of differentiation between right and wrong and he did not like appeasement. "If I am not right this way, how do you want me to be?" The Mother of Little Precious wanted to exchange words with Old Three to give the old grandfather no opportunity to open fire on him. "When you are hungry, you come to me for food. When 23

cold, you ask me for clothes. Am I also to manage the things that are big under heaven?" This silenced Old Three. He was like a player who had failed to get the ball into the basket. He scratched his head with his long, thin, and powerful hand, and pulled his hair. His grandfather laughed and from his eyes came the old mis­ chievous gleam. "Little Three, from your sister-in-law you cannot buy under price. Without me and without her you would not even have food to eat. How can you talk of the great affairs of the country?" "If the Japanese devils break into Peiping no one will eat." Rey Tang gritted his teeth. He bitterly hated the Japanese. "Now in the year of the Boxers, the eight allied countries-" The old man had started to repeat his favorite stories, but lifting his head he saw that Rey Tang had disappeared . "That boy! If he cannot get the better of me in an argument he runs away. What a boy!" Outside, someone was knocking at the gate. "Rey Shuan, open the gate," Old Man Chi called. "Most likely it is your father." Rey Shuan called his youngest brother, Rey Tang, and between them they moved the big stone-filled jar. Standing outside the gate was not their father but Mr. Chien, the poet. The two brothers were both amazed and stood in silence. Mr. Chien' s making a visit was a strange and rare event. Rey Shuan saw at once that it was because of the gravity of the situation, and was troubled in his heart. Rey Tang also knew there was danger but felt only the ex­ citement, and was not uneasy or fearful. Mr. Chien was wearing a wide, old, faded blue coat with the cuffs and the edge of the collar frayed. He was still mild in manner and very calm, but he knew that coming today to the home of his friend was a sign of perturbation. He asked in a low voice, "Is the Old Gentleman at home?'' "Please come in, Uncle Chien." Rey Shuan made way for him. Mr. Chien hesitated for a moment and then walked in. Rey Tang ran ahead and told his grandfather, "Mr. Chien has come." When Old Man Chi and the family heard this they were all sur­ prised. Old Man Chi, surprised and delighted, came out to meet him and was unable to find words with which to welcome him. Mr. Chien was very direct and straightforward in all his dealings . He apologized, "This is the first time I have come to see you-the 24

very first time. I am too lazy. I do not like to go outside my front gate." They went into the parlor in the north house and sat down . Mr. Chien first said to Rey Tang, "Ten thousand thousand, do not call for tea. If you are ceremonious I will not dare come again." This was also to tell everyone that he wanted to speak out imme­ diately without ceremony, and not to wait unitl he should have greeted the whole family, one by one. Old Man Chi spoke immediately of the problem that seemed most important to him. "I have been worrying about you these days. We are old neighbors, old friends; we must not stand on ceremony with each other. Have you grain? If not, tell me. Grain is not in the same category with other things . No day can lack its meals." Mr. Chien did not say whether he had grain or not. He smiled absently as though he would not have given it much thought even if he had no food at all. "I-" Mr. Chien shut his eyes and smiled . "I have come to ask Rey Shuan to instruct me." And his eyes included Rey Tang. "How will the situation develop? I am not a person that inquires often about national affairs, but that I can live freely is a gift to me from my country. For the last few days I have been unable to do anything. I am not afraid of poverty, of hardships; I am afraid only of losing our city of Peiping. A flower growing on a tree is beautiful, but broken off and taken into our hands it is a dead thing. And the city of Peiping is beautiful, but if occupied by the enemy it will be like a plucked flower. Do you agree?" Seeing that they did not answer he added a couple of words, "If Peiping is a tree, I am a flower, and even if I am only a useless flower-if Peiping is lost, I think I need not live longer." Old Man Chi wanted to talk of his faith in the walls of Peiping and urge Mr. Chien not to be overanxious, but he did not fully understand what Mr. Chien was saying. Mr. Chien's words were like the ideographs on a pawn ticket which, though recognizable as words, were written in so different a way that if one tried to guess the meaning he could be embarrassed by being given the wrong article. So the old man's lips moved but no words came out. Rey Shuan had been worried for many days and wanted to talk about the troubles he could see coming, but with the old grand­ father at his side he could not speak out as he wished. Rey Tang had no such inhibitions. He had already decided what to say but had not been able to find the right person to listen. His eldest brother's learning and understanding were not bad, but he 25

was one that could purposefully keep silence. It was only by using many devices that one could make him talk. The second brother­ oh-with Second Brother and Second Sister-in-law one could talk only of movies and amusements. Talking with Second Brother and his wife was not even as satisfactory as talking with Grandfather and Eldest Sister-in-law about "oil, salt, sauce, and vinegar." These, though not very interesting, had at least something to do with liv­ ing. So now he caught at Mr. Chien. He knew that Mr. Chien was a thoughtfol man though his way of thinking was not similar to his own . Rey Tang stood up, straightened his back, and said : "I think that if there is no fighting it will be complete sur· render." "As serious as that?" The smile died on Mr. Chien's face and a tic appeared on his right cheek. "After the Tanaka Memorial the Japanese war lords could not but invade China. With the advantage gained in Manchuria in i931, they could not but make haste to invade China . Their plans for invasion have no limit. If they conquer the whole world they will very likely plan to conquer Mars." "Mars?" The grandfather did not believe the words of his grand· son and did not know on which of the main streets Mars was located. Rey Tang ignored his grandfather's question . Standing very straight and with great determination, he said, "The Japanese re­ ligion, education, temperament; their geography, military prepara­ tions, and industry; their culture built on pirate foundations and on the soaring ambition of their war lords; all lead to the same road-that of invasion and conquest. They smuggle on our coasts and provoke incidents-the necessary preliminaries of invasion. The shooting at Marco Polo Bridge is part of the means. If we tolerate it this time, within ten days or half a month, there will surely be trouble in some other place, perhaps in the Western Barracks, or the Temple of National Protection, and it will be even greater trouble than we now have. Japan is riding on the tiger's back. Only by spreading the confusion can they go forward." Rey Shuan smiled and there was a slight moisture in his eyes. Old Man Chi, hearing Rey Tang speak of the Temple of Na­ tional Protection, started and trembled in his heart. That temple was too near the Little Sheep Fold. "Third Son," Mr. Chien said in a quiet voice, "what shall we do?" Although Rey Tang's words had not been many, because of his anger they had come harshly from his mouth. He looked drained 26

and his mind was full of conflict. He could not go on talking. Ac­ cording to logic he knew that China was no match for Japan and that if it really came to fighting, China would be at a very grave disadvantage. Emotionally, however, he wanted to resist at once because for each day of delay the Japanese took more of China. If China waited until the Japanese had completed their prepara­ tions, any thought of striking back would be too late. He wanted to resist. If there were really to be a war between China and Japan he would offer his own life to his country. He began to perspire. He scratched his head and sat down . On his face appeared several small red spots. "Rey Shuan?" The expression of Mr. Chien's eyes and his in­ flection in speaking invited Rey Shuan to express his opinion. Rey Shuan smiled and then said in a very low voice, "It is better to fight." Mr. Chien closed his eyes and tasted very carefully the flavor of Rey Shuan's words. Rey Tang jumped up and put his two hands on Rey Shuan's shoulders and cried, "Big Brother, Big Brother!" His face flushed violently and again he called "Big Brother" twice and could say no more. At this moment Little Precious ran in . "Father, the gate, the gate." Old Man Chi had not found an opportunity to speak nor anyone to speak to. He now caught hold of his great-grandson. "You see, you see-the gate has just been opened and you run out. You won't listen to me. I tell you there is Japanese devil trouble." Little Precious wrinkled his nose and pulled down his mouth. "I am not afraid of any little Japanese. Ten thousand years to the Chinese Republic." He proudly shook his clenched fist. "Little Precious, what happened at the gate?" Rey Shuan asked . Little Precious pointed outward with a mysterious expression on his face. 'That man has come-says he wants to see you." "Who?" "The man from Number Three." Little Precious knew who he was but because he had so often heard criticism of that person he did not like to speak his name or his surname. "Mr. Kuan?" "Little Precious nodded. "Who? Oh, he!" Mr. Chien began to stand up. "Mr. Chien, please continue to sit," said Old Man Chi. "No, I'll not sit longer." Mr. Chien stood up. 27

"If you don't want to talk with him, let's go to my room ." Old Man Chi really wanted to keep his guest. "No, another day we will talk. I will come again. Please do not see me out." Mr. Chien walked rapidly to the door of the room. Old Man Chi, leaning on Little Precious, started to go out with his guest but when he reached the door of the room, Mr. Chien had already reached the date tree outside the south house, and Rey Shuan and Rey Tang were both following him, to see him out with the proper ceremony. Kuan the Morning Lotus was standing inside the threshold of the gate. He was wearing a coat of blue silk gauze into which was woven the pattern of dragon medallions which had been fashion­ able thirty years before, gone out of fashion, and now come in again. It suited him well and was dignified. The trousers under the coat were of white wash silk with a fine blue stripe. He had not bound his trousers at the ankle and on his feet were white silk socks and black satin shoes with soles of a thousand layers . Even his shadow looked smart. When he saw Mr. Chien come out he gave a gentle pull to his blue gown with one hand and stretched the other out to shake hands with Mr. Chien. The smile on his face seemed to be fanned by all the breezes of spring. Mr. Chien did not lose his natural manner nor did he seek any excuse. In a dignified way he went straight out the gate so that Mr. Kuan' s hand was left hanging in air. Mr. Kuan became very angry but gave his hand, as though noth­ ing had happened, to Rey Shuan and clasped his hand warmly. Then he shook hands with Rey Tang. He put his left hand on top and pressed lightly to show the doubl� warmth of his affection. Old Man Chi did not like Mr. Kuan . Taking Little Precious he went to his own room. Rey Shuan and Rey Tang went with the guest in to the living room to talk. Mr. Kuan had called only twice on the Chi family. The first time was when Old Mrs. Chi had died, and he had come to burn incense and offer wine. He had sat a very short time and left. The second time was whep. it had been rumored that Rey Shuan was to become headmaster of a middle school. He came over to celebrate and sat a very long time. The rumor had not become fact and he had not come again. He had come today to see Mr. Chien and at the same time to see the Chi family. Kuan the Morning Lotus had in the period of the war-lord fight­ ing been an official several times and, although the positions had not been very high, the fat had been very thick. He had been head of the Bureau of Customs, the district magistrate of a first-class 28

county, and a small official in the provincial government. But during the last few years his luck in getting positions had not been good. So he hated the Nanking government. Every day he played host to other disconsolates-the famous so-called scholars, the poli­ ticians, and the war lords. He was always hoping that among his friends there might be one or even two who would again be able to "beat drums and fly banners"-to come back to power-and so give him another spell of luck and money. He had recently begun to study Buddhism and do research into "black magic." Left-over people often join religious societies in order to work for rewards from the gods, make contact with influ­ ential people, and fill in their time. Mr. Kuan had now qualified for these societies . He did not believe in any gods or in Buddha but was using them exactly as he used his singing and his gambling. There was one group of accomplishments he had not. He could not write poetry or compose essays, he could not paint flowers and landscapes; and the "famous" people he knew could all do these things. The people in the foreign concessions in Tientsin, the poli­ ticians and war lords who were still rich though they had lost their power-even they had one or two such tricks which they used to show off. And even the rich who could not write or paint liked to talk about these things. These accomplishments were the decora­ tions of the rich men even as the rich women must have diamonds and pearls. He had long known that Mr. Chien could make poetry and paint pictures and that his means were not great. He had been thinking that he might send money to the Chien family as a "tuition fee" and that like a ham flavored by the smoke of the burning pine wood, he might get some of the smoke of learning on himself. He had no hope that he himself could learn to paint pictures and write poetry. He wanted only to know a few technical terms and the names and schools of the poets and artists so that when he was with his rich friends he would not again lose face. He had thought of many devices to get to know Mr. Chien but Mr. Chien was like a tree which returns no :m swer to any saluta­ tion. Morning Lotus did not dare go directly and call on Mr. Chien because if he was once refused he could not easily go again. Today he saw Mr. Chien go to the Chi family and so he hurriea over. If they could become acquainted in the Chi home he could then immediately send over a couple of pots of flowers or two bottles of good wine to the old man and then the opportunity to be "smoked" would come. Moreover, although Mr. Chien was poor, he did have a collection of valuable calligraphy and paintings. Of course if 29

Morning Lotus had been willing to buy art, there was ready-made, the Liu Li Chang-the art dealers' section of the city. He did not want, however, to spend his money on curios and art. If he could become a friend of Mr. Chien's, he thought, surely · he would find a way to get one or two valuable objects that would not be too expensive. With one or two curios in his room, when he served the old bamboo-leaf-green wine, and the beautiful concubine sat beside him, he would have more to show oft, and his position would be higher. He had not thought that he would "bump his head against a nail" with Mr. Chien, and he was very much displeased. He admit­ ted that Mr. Chien was a scholar but scholars of even greater fame than Mr. Chien did not build this large a frame around themselves. "I give you face and you refuse it. Well, let us wait and see." He thought of revenge. "Hum-if I once get an opportunity there will certainly be some unpleasantness for those of the surname Chien! " On the surface h e was calm and his face carried a smile a s h e talked with the two Chi brothers. "The situation these last few days has not been good. Is there any news?" "There is no news." Rey Shuan also did not iike Mr. Kuan but had no way to avoid talking with him. "What do you think?" "This-" Mr. Kuan lowered his eyelids and with his mouth slightly open put on a knowing expression. "This-very difficult to say. After all, the people in power do not know what to do. If they had planned well I do not think the situation would have come to this." Rey Tang's face again became red. In a very unceremonious way he asked, "Mr. Kuan, in what way do you think they should have carried on the negotiations?" "I?" He was smilingly silent for a while. "I am not in a position to say. I have nothing to say of politics. I am now almost entirely absorbed in studying Buddhism. I tell you, the flavor of Buddhism is certainly wonderful and there is no end to it. If you know a little of Buddha's teachings and have Buddha's ways in your heart, it is like drinking very fine wine, makes one so comfortable-like being slightly intoxicated. Day before yesterday, in the home of the Honorable Sung Ching-Marshal Ting, General Li, and the Honorable Fang were also there-we invited the Mother of West­ ern Heaven and were able to get her down to visit us. We took a photograph of the goddess. Mystic and wonderful-mystic beyond description . Just think of it-the Mother of Western Heaven her­ self! The picture was most clear. From her mouth stretched two long feelers like the feelers of a sheatfish. Very long, very long. 30

From here-" his finger pointed to his mouth, "directly to here," and his hand circled his head. "Wonderful." "Is this also Buddhism?" Rey Tang asked in a very unceremoni­ ous way. "Naturally, o f course, of course." Mr. Kuan made his face wooden and said very seriously, "Buddhism is wide, with no boundary. It has ten thousand changes . It can be revealed in the two long feelers of a fish." He was about to continue his discourse on Buddhism when he heard a commotion in his own courtyard. He stood up, listened, and said, "Oh, probably my second daughter has come back. She went yesterday to the Lake Parks for amusement, and due, I sup­ pose, to the demonstrations on the streets, the gates of the parks, both front and back, were shut and she could not get out. My wife was very worried but I was not excited. Those who worship accord­ ing to Buddhism have this advantage, the mind is always slightly intoxicated. I am never worried. I am never excited. Buddha ar­ ranges everything for us. Now I will go to see my daughter. On some other day we will have a longer talk." When he had finished, he went out, his face calm, his steps rapid. The Chi' brothers accompanied him to the gate. Rey Shuan looked at his third brother and the face of the third brother turned very red. At the gate Mr. Kuan said seriously and in a low voice to Rey Shuan, "Do not get excited. Even if the Japanese should enter the city we still have our ways. If there is any matter that cannot be managed, just come to see me. We are old neighbors and we should help each other."

HE WEATHER

Chapter Four

was hot and the hearts of all in the nation were '?' \/ cold. Peiping fell. Fourth Master Li stood under the locust tree and said with a sad voice to the people, "Prepare white cloth, and if we have to hang a flag, when the time comes you can use rouge to paint a round ball. In the year of the Boxers we made flags that way, once." He had a strong body but today he felt tired. When he had finished what he had to say, he squatted on his heels and stared at the green caterpillars under the locust tree. Fourth Mistress Li had been worried for several days, sensing danger. She had not asked what was happening but today she 31

understood; the Japanese soldiers had entered the city . Her big nearsighted eyes blinked rapidly and her face became pale. She did not scold her Old Man; she came out from their gate and squatted beside him. The rickshaw boy, Little Tsui, his shoulders bare, went in and out of the courtyard quickly and without purpose. He could not take his rickshaw out today and there was not a grain of rice in the home. After going in and out a few times he came over and stood in front of Old Mrs . Li. "Fourth Grandmother, your heart is good, will you be charitable?" Fourth Mistress was not, as usual, talking loudly and incessantly. In a low voice she said, "Wait a bit, and I will take two catties of mixed flour to you." "That will be good. I thank the Fourth Grandmother." Little Tsui' s voice was also not loud. "I tell you, good boy, don't quarrel so much with your wife. The Japanese devils have entered the city." Fourth Mistress Li sighed when she had finished speaking. The barber, Sun the Seventh, was at home as none of the shops had opened for trade. He did not work in a barber shop but had monthly contracts with business houses in the nearby streets . Ac­ cording to the standards of the old skills-for example, to clear the eyes, to clean the ears, to massage, to shave-he was very proficient; but he did not know the newfangled ways, such as to cut the hair with a part, or to curl the hair. He had no desire to learn these skills, and working for businessmen in the shops he had no need for them. In his own home he drank two cups of lonely wine. When his face flushed he came out, and borrowing the strength of the wine, tried to express his frustration and anger. "Fourth Uncle, you mean well when you tell the people to hang a white flag. Whoever wants to hang a white flag, let him hang. I, Sun the Seventh, will not hang a white flag. I hate the Japanese devils. I will wait. If they dare to come into our Little Sheep Fold, I will let them know the anger of Sun the Seventh." If this had happened in ordinary times Little Tsui would have started an argument which would certainly have become a quarrel, because the two of them, when arguing about the big affairs of the world, were always on opposite sides . But now Fourth Master Li made a negative gesture with his eyes, and Little Tsui went away without a sound. Sun the Seventh was disappointed when he saw Little Tsui go away but he still hoped that Old Man Li would talk with him. When Fourth Master Li also did not speak, Sun the Seventh was 32

at a loss. After he had stood there a while, Fourth Master lifted his head and with annoyance and near anger said, "Sun the Sev­ en th, go home and sleep." Sun the Seventh, although somewhat intoxicated, still did not dare to offend Fourth Master Li. He laughed a little and w.ent home. No one came out from house Number Six. Little Wen and his wife could usually have been heard practicing their voices but today they dared not make any noise. Master Liu the shed-builder, was polishing his sword with vigor. Above their heads were no more airplanes and from outside the city no longer came the sound of cannon. Everything, everywhere, was silent. Rey Shuan was plump and looked like his father. His appearance was always unpretentious, yet whatever he wore was in good taste. He only in the whole Chi family had this manner of good breeding. The old grandfather and Tien Yiu were responsible, self-respecting businessmen; their manner and conversation was without preten­ sion . Rey Feng had some education-he had been to the night school of accounting and banking-and was intolerant of his grand­ father and father. He did his best to imitate the tasteful and the fashionable, but he imitated too hard; he did not achieve the polish he wanted but, on the other hand, threw away his genuine inheritance. Rey Feng had the manner of a compradore or a gang­ ster. Old Three-Rey Tang-was a straightforward boy who did not concern himself with what was cultivated or what was crude. Only Rey Shuan cared-and who knows where he had learned these things . He was mild, courteous, and unaffected at all times. In his work he was sincere, like his grandfather and father. He was very careful in spending and did not waste a copper, but he could also be very generous. In those places where it was right to be generous he did not use the abacus. In his times of depression he was like a cloudy day in spring; all could rest assured there would be no wind­ storm or sudden rain . In his times of happiness he smiled only and never laughed out loud. It seemed as if he smiled at himself, wondering why he should be happy. Rey Shuan was very diligent in studying both Chinese and West­ ern literature and had a considerable understanding in both. It was a pity he had had no opportunity or money to go abroad and seek advanced study. At school he was the best teacher but not the most loved, because he would not pass poor work for any student. His attitude toward his fellow-teachers was always correct, and in his intercourse with them he always stopped at the right place. He ate 33

the food of his own ability and did not feel it necessary to buy the good will of others. In thought Rey Shuan was similar to Old Three; but he was deeper, perhaps, than Old Three. In the whole family he could talk to Old Three only. He and Old Three were different, however, in that he did not like to show his thoughts. This was not because of conceit-it was not due to thinking that he should not "play the lute before an ox"-but because there was always in his heart a feeling of self-depreciation . There seemed to be some feminine qualities in his character. He always sought to understand before acting. For example, long before he came to the age of marriage he had known the sanctity of a love match-but he had married Yun Mei, to whom he had been engaged by his father. He knew that he should not tie his whole life to a woman he did not love, but he could not look at the unhappiness, the tears, and the sad­ ness of his grandfather, his father, and his mother. He thought from the point of view of the old ones in the family and from that of his bride-to-be, and after thinking he understood the difficulties of the family and that they were part of the troubles of the world. So he had married her and laughed at himself for being so weak; but at the same time, when he saw the faces of his grandfather and father change from sorrow to happiness, he felt proud of himself, proud of his self-sacrifice. After snow had fallen Rey Shuan would always go to the North Sea Park and climb to the White Dagoba to look at the Western Hills in their white covering. He would stand there for an hour and let the white and distant, snow-covered hills take his thoughts to far places. But when he must come down from the Dagoba, he would bring his mind back from the high mountains and the wild seas and begin thinking again about his duties to his family and to his school. On his way home, like a dutiful son and kind father, he would buy some cakes for his grandfather or for Little Precious. Since I cannot go far and fly high, I will go home and make the old and young happy; and his face, reddened by the cold, would crease into a smile in spite of himself. He had almost no bad habits . He could drink a cattie of yellow wine at a sitting without showing any effects, but he would not touch it except at New Year's time or that of some other festival. He did not smoke. Tea and water, to him, held not much differ­ ence. His amusements were to help his grandfather with the flowers, and once or twice a week to go to the Ping An Cinema to see a movie. His English was not bad but his conversation was not fluent, so he liked to learn from the talkies. Whenever he went to 34

the Ping An Cinema, he always went early to get a front seat. This saved money and also he could hear more clearly. He never turned his head to look back. He knew that his second brother and sister­ in-law, if they were there, would certainly be in the first-class seats. He was not ashamed of sitting in the front seats but was afraid that it would make the second brother and his wife uncomfortable to see him there. When Peiping fell, Rey Shuan was like an ant on a hot stove, coming in and going out; he did not know what best to do. He lost his usual calm and did not try to pretend that he had not. Coming out of the room he lifted his head to look at the sky­ the sky so beautiful, so clear, so bright-and knew that he was stiII under the clear, blue skies of Peiping. He lowered his head and it was as though the strong sunlight in front of his eyes was black darkness. The sky was stiII bright and blue but Peiping no longer belonged to the Chinese. He went quickly back into his r9om. In the room he tried, from the accumulated knowledge of the past, to guess and estimate the relationship of the war between China and Japan and the rest of the world. Suddenly he heard the voices of his wife and Little Precious. He jumped, as though frightened, and was at once plunged back to the earth of daily life from the cloud of the world situation. He knew that the war between China and Japan was one that would change the geography and history of the world, but immediately before his eyes was the need for security, and food, and clothing for the whole family. His grand­ father was almost seventy-five and could not sell his labor for money. His father's earnings were small and also he was over fifty. His mother was ill and could not bear anxiety. The second brother's income was just enough for the spending of the two, the husband and wife. Old Three was stiII a student. While the world was at peace they could all, without worry, have enough to eat and to wear. But today Peiping was lost. What should he do? He had been the head of the family for some time but how much were his duties and difficulties now multiplied! On the one hand he was a citizen, and a citizen with knowledge and ability. He should go out and do something for his country in this time of his country's great calamity. On the other hand there was the family, and the old were old and the young were young. They leaned on him in ordi­ nary times and now they needed him even more. Could he throw up his hands and walk away? He could not, he could not. But if he did not go away he would, under the feet of the enemy, be "a slave in a conquered country." And that he could not bear. Coming in and going out, coming in and going out, he could 35

think of no good plan. His knowledge told him the highest duty; his un.derstanding forced him to be concerned with the nearest problems. He thought of Wen Tien Hsiang who fought the Mon­ gols and of many, many heroes of the race; and at the same time he thought also of Tu Fu, a wanderer and exile during a civil war, of the poetry he wrote of wanderings and of his great longing for his family. 1he Second was still in his room listening to a broadcast-a Japa­ nese broadcast. The Third was in the courtyard. He jumped up and said, "Old Two, if you don't shut that thing off I will smash it with a stone." Little Precious was frightened and ran quickly to his grand­ mother's room. His grandmother, in a weak and small voice said, "Old Three, Old Three." Rey Shuan did not say a word but took Old Three into his room. The two brothers sat a long time looking at each other. Each wanted to say something but did not know where to start. Old Three broke the silence. "Eldest Brother." Rey Shuan did not answer; it was as though a date stone was stuck in his throat. Old Three forgot what he had intended to say. There was no sound in the room, in the court, anywhere. The day was clear, the sun was bright, but under the sunlight the whole great city was like an ancient tomb. Suddenly from far came the sound as if great stones were being moved from the mountains. "Old Three, listen !" Rey Shuan thought it was the sound of heavy bombers. "The tanks of the enemy on the streets to awe the people." Old Three spoke from the corner of his mouth and with a bitter smile with which he was trying to stop the trembling of his lips. The Eldest listened again. "Right. Tanks, many, many-'.' He bit his lips. The sound of the tanks grew stronger in the air and the earth trembled . China that loved peace so much and peace-loving Peiping -which had built the palaces and imperial shrines and altars, the temples and monasteries, the homes and gardens, the high buildings and the Nine Dragon Screen in the North Sea Park; with its old cedars which could not be girdled by anyone's arms, the weeping willows, the white marble bridges, the flowers of the four seasons; with its light crisp speech, its gentle manners, its honest business, the slow steps and the imperial opera; for nothing, for nothing, sud­ denly to have its heavens and its roads taken over by airplanes and tanks ! "Eldest Brother," Old Three said again. 36

The tanks on the streets sounded like land mines exploding, a maddening noise. Rey Shuan's ears and heart were both deafened . "Eldest Brother." "Ah-" Rey Shuan' s head fell to one side as if to find Old Three's voice. "Well-speak up ." "I must go, Eldest Brother. I cannot stay here and be a slave in a conquered country." "Ah-" Rey Shuan's heart had followed the tanks as they moved forward. "I must go," Rey Tang repeated. "Go-where?" The sound of the tanks had diminished. "Anywhere-but I cannot live under the rising sun flag." "Right." Rey Shuan nodded his head. Goose flesh rose on his plump face. "But do not be in too much of a hurry. Who knows what will happen? Suppose peace is made after a few days-would it not be useless for you to go? You have only one more year before graduation." "Do you think the Japanese, having seized Peiping, will loosen their jaws?" "Only if North China is given to Japan." "Without North China where is Peiping?" Rey Shuan thought awhile and said, "What I meant-if we should allow them to use economic exploitation they might, per­ haps, withdraw their armies . To invade by force is not financially advantageous ." The sound of tanks was now like light thunder in the distance. Rey Shuan listened awhile and then said, "I will not keep you from going away. I ask you only to wait a bit." "What if I wait until there is no way to leave? What will I do?" Rey Shuan sighed. "Hum-you-I can never go." "Eldest Brother, let us go together." Rey Shuan's slight and sad smile was again on his sorrowing face. "How can I go? Would you like to see this whole family, old and young-" "What a pity! Look here, Eldest Brother, let us count those in our country who, like you and me, have received higher education and also have ability and could be useful to our country. How many are there?" "It's impossible for me." The elder brother sighed again. "It is better for you to serve the country and for me to serve the older generations." Rey Shuan was caught between the generations. Old Man Chi 37

was a hundred per cent old China, and his son Tien Yiu was seventy per cent old and thirty per cent new, as Rey Tang was seventy per cent new and thirty per cent old. Rey Shuan, however, was fifty per cent old and fifty per cent new. He could see the problems and difficulties of both, and the beauty and reasonable­ ness of both, and he could see the duties of both. Fourth Master Li had stood up and was talking quietly with Sergeant Pai under the locust tree. Sergeant Pai was over forty years old. He was clean shaven and looked energetic. He was very talka­ tive. When he came to the houses of the families-when they fought or quarreled-he was able at the same time to scold them and to pacify them. He could thus melt the big problems down to small ones and melt the small ones away. Because of this the people in the Little Sheep Fold were all afraid of his sharp tongue but respected his good heart. But today Sergeant Pai did not look energetic. He knew very well that his duties were heavy and great. If there are no police there is no order, and although he was only the sergeant of police for the Little Sheep Fold district, he felt that the whole of Peiping, more or less belonged to him. He loved Peiping. Even more he was proud to be a police officer of Peiping. But today Peiping was occu­ pied by the Japanese and from now on he must keep the peace for the Japanese. Logically if Peiping were occupied by foreigners, there could not, fundamentally, be any security to talk about. Yet he still wore the uniform and was still a sergeant. He did not fully understand what he was doing. Fourth Master Li asked him, "Sergeant, what do you think? Will they kill indiscriminately?" "I do not dare to say anything, Fourth Master." The sound of Sergeant Pai' s voice was very low. "I feel as though I was stuck in a big storage jar with the lid on. I cannot see heaven or earth." "We have so many soldiers, where are they all?" "They fought all right, but they could not overcome the enemy. In times like this, in this era, fighting is not a question of bravery only, and strength of body. Their cannon and guns are strong. They have airplanes and tanks. We-" "Then Peiping is really lost?" "The big tanks have just gone by. Did you not hear them?" "It is certain?" "It is certain." "What shall we do?" Fourth Master Li's voice was very low. "I tell you, Sergeant, I hate the Japanese devils." ·

38

Sergeant Pai looked around the four sides of the courtyard. ''Who does not hate them? Now let us talk business. Fourth Master, go quickly to the Chi family and to the Chien family and tell them, tell them to burn their books. The Japanese hate those who are educated. If The People's Three Principles is in the house, or even more terrible, any foreign books-I think that in this part of the Little Sheep Fold there are books in those homes only. You go. It is not well for me to go." He looked at his uniform. Fourth Master Li nodded. Sergeant Pai, without energy . or ex­ pression, walked toward the "waist of the gourd." Fourth Master Li went to the Chien home and knocked at the gate. There was no answer. He knew that Mr. Chien had a peculiar disposition and that, moreover, in the times of the "scourge of soldiers and the rampage of horses" he did not like to make a fuss. So Fourth Master waited awhile and then went on to the Chi family. Old Man Chi gave him a sincere welcome and gave the heart of Fourth Master some comfort. He was afraid that Old Man Chi would as usual start talking about the "old grain and rotting sesame," so he spoke immediately about the things he had to say. Old Man Chi had no special feeling for books, but books had been bought with money-to burn them would be a pity. He suggested that his grandsons should make a selection and that those which should be burned could be sold to the man with the little drum, the man who bought and sold old things. "TP.at will not do." Fourth Master was sincerely looking after the security of his old neighbors. "The rag man will not come these days and even if he should come he would not dare to buy books." He then told Old Man Chi about not being able to get into the Chien house. Old Man Chi went into the courtyard and called Rey Tang. "Rey Tang, good boy, burn all your books-your foreign books. They were all very expensively bought but should we keep them to bring trouble on us?" Old Three said to the Eldest, "Look-'burn the books and bury alive the scholars.' What now?" "Old Three, you are right. You must go but I cannot leave. I t is my fate. You go and I will burn the books, hang the white flag, be a slave in a conquered country." The elder brother could con­ trol himself no longer and shed tears. "Did you hear me, Little Three?'' Old Man Chi asked. "I heard. I will start right away," Rey Tang answered his grand39

father impatiently, and then in a small voice said to Rey Shuan, "Eldest Brother, if you feel this way, how can I go?" Rey Shuan wiped the tears with the back of his hand. "You go your way,\ Old Three. Remember, always remember, your eldest brother is not a man without principles." He swallowed a couple of times.

TANG

Chapter Five

11 EY left the sorting and burning of the books to his eldest /\, brother. He loved his books, but now he felt that the relation­ ship between himself and the books was no longer close: He should put down books and take up swords and guns. He loved his home, was fond of school, had a deep affection for Peiping, but these already were not holding the most important place in his heart. The warm blood of youth made his imagination fly; and, even in his dreams these days, he was a refugee, going to other places. He had not yet been able to decide how to go or where to go, but it was as though his heart had already flown from his body. Whether in the court or in his room he saw the high mountains and the great rivers, the military flags, and the sad and brave expanse of the world, and the earth red as blood. He wanted to go to the parts of the world where there was fresh blood and where guns were being fired. He wanted to move around, to struggle, and to fight. If only he could get there, he would remove the rising sun flag and put up the one with the blue sky and white sun, and wateh it flying in the strong wind. The China of a hundred years of oppression had given birth to youth of this kind. These youths wanted to leave their homes and burst forth as free men, free from the oppression of family and society. They wanted to smash the chains that bound the race and the nation, to become those who could stand erect and face every­ one, citizens of the world. They had no way to carry on their lives with any meaning unless they could create a new history of China . The innermost force of their minds was to fight against everything. Rey Tang was one of these. He took the Chinese family, sacred for many thousand years, as if it were only a relationship for daily living. When he heard the countris cries for help he echoed them. There should be no obstacle that could keep him from going at once. Like a full-feathered young bird, with no family ties, he could leave the nest without regret and fly away. Old Man Chi was worried when he heard Fourth Master Li say 40

that the Chien family gate did not open to his can, and could not let his heart rest. He knew that the Chien family had many books. He wanted Rey Shuan to warn Mr. Chien but Rey Tang came for­ ward and volunteered. It was already lamplighting time. The two big locust trees outside the gate were like two immense hens, spreading their kind black wings to cover the five or six courtyards and their families. There was no light in the other courts, only in Number Three ( it alone in the Little Sheep Fold had electric lights ) and the lights in this court were as bright as though to celebrate the New Year. Above the screen wan the leaves of the locust tree were a whitish-green. Rey Tang stood awhile beside the screen wall before he went to Number One and knocked on the gate. He did not dare to knock loudly. He tapped the gate ring twice very lightly and gave a couple of low dry coughs, "writing with two pens" to get the attention of those in the compound. He had done this several times before, from inside the gate, a low voice said, "Who's there?" He recog­ nized the voice of Uncle Chien. "I-Rey Tang." He had put his mouth to the crack between the two halves of the gate to answer. Very quickly and lightly the wooden bar was slid back, and the gate was opened. The gate passage was very dark. Rey Tang was uneasy. He could not decide whether it was better to go in or not to go in. He decided it was best for him to ten the reason for coming and see if Uncle Chien would ask him in or not. "Uncle Chien, our books, we had better burn them. Today Sergeant Pai told Fourth Master Li to tell us." "Come in and talk, Old Three." Mr. Chien shut the gate. He then stepped in front of Rey Tang and said, '' I'n lead the way, · the court is dark." When they had reached the door of the room Mr. Chien asked Rey Tang to wait a moment while he lighted the lamp. Rey Tang said, "Do not trouble." Mr. Chien replied-his words carrying a sad amusement : "The Japanese have not yet prohibited the lighting of lamps." When the lamp in the room was lit Rey Tang saw that an around him in the courtyard were tan and short flowering shrubs. "Old Three, come in," Mr. Chien called from inside the room. Rey Tang went in. Before he had time to sit down the old gentle­ man asked, "What is it? Bum the books?" Rey Tang's eyes swept once around the room. "These string­ sewed books will probably not have to meet the calamity. The 41

Japanese hate us students, but more they hate those who study the new books. The old books, perhaps, will not lead to disaster." "Oh-" Mr. Chien's eyes were shut for a while. "But our sol­ diers-few of them can read, but they can wield the broad sword and cut off the heads of the Japanese. Is that not so?" Rey Tang smiled, " If the invader had been willing to admit that others are also people, that others have human emotions and are able to rise in anger, he would not have invaded. The Japanese from the beginning to the present have taken us to be dogs. Kick them, beat them, they will make no noise." "That is a great mistake." Mr. Chien put out his short fat hand and invited his guest to sit down. "I am not in the habit of talking about the great affairs of the nation. I do not like to talk about matters I do not understand, but when people come to destroy my country-that I cannot bear with patience. I can ask the people of my own country to give me orders. I cannot allow the people of another country to come and be our masters ." His voice was low as usual but not as mild as in ordinary times . He was silent for a while and then in a still lower voice, "Did you know my second son came back today?" "Second Brother, where is he? I would like to see him." "He has gone again, he has gone again." Mr. Chien's words seemed to hold a secret. "What did he say?" "He?" Mr. Chien lowered his voice almost to a whisper. "He came to say goodbye to me." "Where has he gone?" "He has not gone anywhere. He said he would not come back again. He told me, when the time for the registration of families came, not to write his name. He is not to be counted as a member of my family." Mr. Chien' s voice was very low and from his eyes came a light that was not usually in them-a light of concern, excitement, and pride. "What has he gone to do?" The old man laughed softly. "My second son is a man who does not love the books sewed with string, nor the books bound in for­ eign fashion, but he will not live under the Japanese. Do you under­ stand?" Rey Tang nodded. "Second Brother will fight them. But this is something that must not be told." "Why not tell?" Mr. Chien' s voice was suddenly raised as if he were angry. In the courtyard Mrs. Chien coughed a couple of times. 42

"Nothing. I am chatting with the Third from the Chi family." Mr. Chien spoke to those outside the window, and then his voice became even lower and he said to Rey Tang, 'This is a thing of pride for me. I-a man who will not move a weed that lies on the ground or pull a weed that stands-how was it that I should have such a son ! What have I to be afraid of? I can only seek poetry from words. My son, a truck driver, can in the time of the invasion of his country and of disaster to his family, contribute his fresh blood to make poetry. I have lost a son but the country has gained a hero. When the Japanese come to ask me, 'Was that your son who killed us?' I will push my chest against their bayonets and say, 'Yes, that is so.' I can also say to them, 'We have many men like my son. You came a great horde of men and horses, but we can cut you down one at a time. In this country of ours, your carts, the houses you live in, the water you drink, the food you eat, can all become poison to you, poison to you.' " Mr. Chien said it all in one breath and then closed his eyes. His lips trembled. Rey Tang suddenly stood up, and went over to Mr. Chien, knelt before him, and put his head on the ground. "Uncle Chien, I thought that you were only an idle man, could only talk idly. Now I apologize." Not waiting for Mr. Chien to make a move Rey Tang stood up. "Uncle Chien, I also am planning to go." "Go?" Mr. Chien looked carefully at Rey Tang. "Good, you should go. You can go. Your heart is warm, your body is strong." "You have no other words to say to me?" Rey Tang now felt that Uncle Chien was the most lovable of all mankind, even more so than his father and mother and eldest brother, more lovable even than they. "There is only one word. At no time must you allow your heart to turn to ashes, to bum out-nor have any regrets. If one's heart turns to ashes it can then see only the mistakes of others, not its own degeneration. Remember this, Old Three." "I will remember. After I've gone I will be worried about Eldest Brother only. He is so thoughtful a person and has so much ability but he is tied by the family. There is no possibility for him to get away. In the home there is no one to whom he can talk. He must always be cheerful with everyone because he is the head of the family. After I am gone I hope, Uncle Chien, that you will often give him comfort. He admires you." "Na-let your heart rest. There is no way to move all the million people of Peiping. There must be those who are left behind. We the old, weak, discarded soldiers cannot leave. We also will have 43

need to be brave, almost as much as those of you who can get away. You must go to meet bullets. We wait for chains on our bodies, and we will not have lost our integrity either. Come, I will drink a cup of wine with you ." Mr. Chien felt under the table and found a bottle of wine, light green in color and clear like jade. It was artemisia wine he had made him self. He did not take the time to find wine cups but half filled two teacups. Throwing back his head, in one draught he drank the half cup of wine and smacked his lips. Rey Tang did not have that large a capacity for wine but he did not like to show his weakness, so he also in one motion took the wine to his mouth and swallowed it. The strength of the wine went from his tongue and burned in his chest. "Uncle Chien." He swallowed several gulps and said, "I am not sure that I will be able to come again to bid you farewell. We have to keep this a secret more or less." "Say goodbye? I tell you truly, when we separate this time I will not nourish the hope of seeing ·you again. 'When the wind whistles the water in the river is cold. The brave one goes away and never returns.' " Mr. Chien put his hands on the wine bottle and there was moisture in his eyes. The wine in Rey Tang's stomach was rising and he was slightly dizzy and wished to get into an open place and breathe in peace. 'Tm going." He did not dare to look at Mr. Chien but went straight out of the room. Mr. Chien still with his hands on the wine bottle sat silent until Rey Tang had gone out of the room door and then caught up with him . He did not say a word but opened the street gate for him and watched him go out. Then very quietly Mr. Chien shut the gate and gave a deep sigh. Rey Tang's half cup of wine had been drunk too quickly. As soon as he got outside into the cool breeze his blood began to flow as if the river had broken its dam. He stood under the black shadow of the locust tree and his mind was a magic lantern before which figures moved . It seemed as if many related, and then sud­ denly unrelated, scenes and events passed in procession before him. They all belonged to the time of day after the evening meal. There were the bright lights on Coal Market Street; and in Fresh Fish Court, and in other places like that, people smelling of wine and belching loudly with satisfaction, crowded toward the theaters . In the theaters, under lights so bright they made the heads of people ache, the fighting operas were being played. Suddenly the scene changed. From the Eastern Market and from the banks of the 44

North River came the young boys and girls, two and two, shoulder to shoulder, with the flowers of love in their eyes . They went toward the Chen Kwang or the Ping An or the Kuang Lu cinema houses from which came the blare of love songs over the loud-speakers . Again, on the water of the North Sea he saw the little boats float­ ing around in the shadows, away from the lights, where the taII lotus leaves were between them and hid them one from another. Again, in Central Park, under the old cedar trees were the modern men and women walking and sitting. At this hour it should be lively and busy everywhere. Rickshaws, horse carriages, tram cars, motorcars, should all be running fast and making a noise. A breeze blew away his visions . He strained his ears to listen care­ fuIIy. There was not a sound from the streets. Those most often heard, the bells of the trams and the shouting of the hawkers, were aII silent tonight. Peiping was silently weeping. Suddenly the edges of the locust trees became light as if in a dream. Suddenly he saw many ridge poles of many houses and as suddenly the light was gone and in front of his eyes it became very dark, darker than before. In the distance, in the sky, there came another shaft of light. It came quickly and went. Then another beam crossed the first and the two stood still awhile. The heavens were light and aII was dark below. In the heavens was a white quivering cross. The stars lost their light. The strange eyes of the invaders were searching the black night of Peiping. The strength of Rey Tang's wine was half gone. He did not know at what time his face had become wet with tears. He was not one to shed tears easily. But the wine, the silence, the trembling white light, and his beating heart, aII coming at once, had forced his tears without his knowledge. He did not wish to wipe away the tears . With tears on his face he felt more at ease in his heart. The gate of Number Three opened. Meydee came out and stood in the street. She lifted her head and looked around. She was short of stature like her father, smaII and very beautiful and charming. Her eyes were exceptionaIIy fine with deep double eyelids and a pair of very bright and very black irises. Wherever her eyes turned they were lively and charming. If she had not had those eyes, though weII proportioned and elegant, she would not have had any special attraction. Her eyes made her whole body alive. They covered aII her defects. Her eyes could speak the most difficult ideas and feelings . They could open the most lovely flowers for her. Even though she had no profound learning, had no special char­ acter or accomplishments that people could admire, her eyes could conquer aII. Seeing her eyes people would forget to consider any45

thing else but thought only that she was lovely. The light in her eyes could reach the hearts of people and make them straightway mad. She was wearing a very short white silk gown, very short and very wide. It had no collar and showed her white neck. Her little chin was lifted as if she were an immortal maiden looking to see what was happening in heaven. The light from the courtyard shone on the big locust tree. The green from the locust tree was reflected on her silk coat as though shadows had been drawn in lightly with a crayon but the shadows could not hide the sheen of the silk. The light and the shadow mixed made the coat seem to tremble -soft and shimmering-like the wings of a dragonfly quivering in the air. Rey Tang's heart beat more quickly, and without thinking he went over to her. He walked very quickly and lightly and was sud­ denly standing before her. This startled her and she put her hand on her heart. "You!" She dropped her hand. Because of her fright her eyes were even brighter and blacker as she looked steadily at Rey Tang. "Shall we go for a walk?" Rey Tang said very lightly. She shook her head and there was an apology in her eyes. She said, "That day I was shut in the North Sea Park for a night-I do not dare again take the risk." "I wonder if there will again be chances for us to enjoy the parks." "Why not?" She put her right hand on the frame of the gate and turned her face slightly. Rey Tang did not answer. His heart was disturbed. "Papa says the situation is not so very serious." "Oh! " His word carried surprise and displeasure. "Look at you ! Come in. Let us play a few rounds of mah-jongg. How boring it all is." She started forward. " I don't know how to play mah-jongg. See you tomorrow." And as if going forward to catch a ball he ran to his own gate in two or three steps. He opened the gate and then turned and looked at her. She was still standing there. He wanted to go back and say a few more words to her but he was angry and shut the gate with a bang. Meydee's words and manner had greatly disappointed him. He had not thought that at this time of the invasion of the city she would have had the heart to play mah-jongg. Let her go! The Japanese have entered the city-and still to think of her . . . No principles at all! He went to bed. 46

But he could not sleep. He thought it all over from the beginning but could not get it clear. He thought once, he thought twice, he thought three times. He became impatient with himself but still he could not sleep. He began to think of her. If she stayed in Peiping what would she turn into? Her father would try probably to get a position in the government and perhaps give her to a Japanese. When he thought of this, he sat up suddenly. Make her serve a Japanese! Give her beauty, her gentleness, and her ten-thousand, ten-thou­ sand times kind and wonderful voice, her eyes, her gestures-all to a wild animal ! However, even if these things he imagined should become fact what could he do about them? The first thing was to drive out the Japanese. He again reclined on the bed. He counted the crowing of the first cock, one, two, three . . .

Chapter Six '?' HE SPRING WATER from the Jade Fountain Park was flowing \/ leisurely as always. In the reservoir of the Ten Weirs and in the seas of the Three Palace Parks the green lotus still gave out its fragrance. To the north and the west the deep blue hills were still standing majestic beneath the bright blue sky. In the Temple of Heaven enclosure and in the imperial parks the old pines and the green cedars still kept company with the red walls and the golden tiles. All the brave and splendid scenes! But the people of Peiping had already lost the relationship they had had with Peiping. Peiping was no longer the Peiping of the Peiping people. The Japanese flag was flying above the green cedars and the yellow tiles. The eyes of the people, the hands of the artists, the minds of the poets, did not dare to see, did not dare to paint, did not dare to think of Peiping's majesty and great beauty. The eyes of the people all asked each other, "What shall we do?" The only answer was a shake of the head, and shame. Only Kuan the Morning Lotus did not perceive anything of dis­ comfort. What he said and what he believed were entirely different matters . His mouth said country and race but in his heart he knew only himself. He himself was everything. He himself was a bright sun, and Big Red Pepper, Peach Blossom, and the girls, were his planets. The four walls of the courtyard of Number Three, the Lit­ tle Sheep Fold, enclosed his universe. In this universe, country and race were terms only. If by selling his country he could get better 47

food to eat and more fashionable clothes, the god of this universe­ Kuan the Morning Lotus-would go right out and sell his country. In his mind, life was the living, and the living should be luxurious and comfortable. There was nothing he would not do to reach his ideal standard of living. He had hated Nanking for a long time because the National Government had never given him an official post. Would not the Japanese use him? He thought awhile and on his face floated a smile like a spring breeze blowing and melting the ice, and there appears slowly on the hard surface a little water. The thought had come to him that the Japanese could not bring a thousand or ten thousand officials . They must surely employ some of those who did not oppose Japan to run their affairs. The people of the city were confused and unhappy but Kuan the Morning Lotus started to make his first moves. His first trip out­ side his gate gave him great concern and he was not too comfort­ able in his mind about it. There were armed Japanese on guard at each of the important intersections such as the Crossroads of the Four Arches, the New Crossroad, and at the entrance to the Street of the Temple of the National Protection, and there were bright and shining bayonets on all their guns . The people who passed . these places were all forced to bow deeply to the Japanese soldiers. Morning Lotus would be happy to bow, and was happy that he knew how to make a Japanese bow, but he had no special badge or sign to wear, and if the Japanese soldiers did not know him, they might give him trouble. They had plenty of bullets, and just in play they could kill a score of people. Like the hoofs of a horse, Kuan the Morning Lotus was never still. But he had not run d own even the eyebrows of a hope. After he and his wife, Big Red Pepper, had been running around a few days he began to understand that the political and military head­ quarters were in Tientsin. Peiping was the garden city of the world and the treasure house of culture but in military and political mat­ ters it had been put under Tientsin . But Kuan the Morning Lotus was not downhearted. He believed implicitly that he would soon enter the period of harmonious rhythm of his luck, and the encour­ agement and assistance from Big Red Pepper made it impossible for him to stop even had he wanted to. He must succeed. Since he had married his secondary wife, Peach Blossom, he had formed with her an united front to fight Big Red Pepper, one on either side. Big Red Pepper, although she dared to talk and quarrel, was in her heart fairly straightforward. She needed only to hear a few words of reasonable talk and she could believe and she would be 48

forgiving. So Kuan the Morning Lotus would often, on the one hand, secretly support Peach Blossom and, on the other, give Big Red Pepper sweet words, so that she, though hating Peach Blossom deeply, could always find some reason to forgive her husband. She knew that in appearance and in age she had nothing which could strike a balance with Peach Blossom. To forgive her husband was a way in which she could make victory out of defeat. She made friends, and vigorously helped her husband to move around among those friends. She also wanted to show Peach Blossom that "each had a thousand autumns," that each had her own prowess. During this period of the loss of Peiping, except that she could not play mah-jongg and go to the theater, she had not met any dis­ comfort. She had not at first realized that Kuan the Morning Lotus' opportunity had come but when she heard his words she became excited and saw position, money, wine feasts, and beautiful clothes. She should, with her very life, go and help him so that these good things would come quickly to her hands. Her sincerity and efforts touched Morning Lotus so that he was especially gentle with his wife. Teasingly, he told her that her hair was short a curl or two. This warmed her heart so that for the time being she stopped fighting with Peach Blossom. From the experience of the last few days she knew that the friends left in Peiping had not much influence. So, though she told Morning Lotus to go to see them and continue to have intercourse with them, since even if it were not much use there was nothing to lose, she herself went to find other openings. She went to visit the women : the mothers of the rich men in Tientsin, the mothers, wives, concubines, or daughters who, because they liked the opera or for other reasons, were still in Peiping. She felt that this was a better road than her husband's because she knew that she had ability and she knew that to get an official position walking the inside paths was useful. First she told Morning Lotus to go. She told Peach Blossom to watch the house. She told her two daughters to go out. "You should not sit at home to eat bread you have not earned. Go out and move around for your father." Kaodee and Meydee were not as warmly devoted as their mother. Although their training in the home had made them fond of ex­ citement, luxury, and amusements, they were after all the younger generation. They knew a little of the shame of a conquered country. Meydee spoke first. She was her mother's baby so she had been more indulged than her sister. Today, because she was afraid that the Japanese soldiers might search each house, she had powdered 49

her face very lightly and had not put on lipstick. . "Mother, I hear that on the street one meets Japanese soldiers and they search peo­ ple. Especially they feel women's breasts ." "Why not let them feel? Can they feel off a piece of your flesh?" Big Red Pepper, having once made a decision, was afraid of noth­ ing. "What about you?" she asked Kaodee. Kaodee was a head taller than her sister. From the back she was handsome but her face was not pretty. Her lips were too thick and her nose too short. Her two eyes, however, showed spirit. In height and temperament she was like her mother so she did not have her mother's favor. When she and her mother were together neither was willing to give way so it was inevitable that the sparks should fly. She could be considered the most understanding person in the family. Sometimes, also, she would say a few of the words that people liked least to hear. Because of this, no one in the family dared to molest her; all were a bit afraid of her. "If I were you, Mother, I would not let my daughter go out at this time to find an official position for Papa. Shame!" Kaodee made her nose in to a hard little stick. "All right. You need neither of you go, but when the time comes and your father has money you need .not put out your hands and ask him for any." Big Red Pepper seized with one hand her bag embroidered with the seed stitch, and with the other, her sandal­ wood fan, which she held like a soldier in battle fighting with a bayonet. Meydee stopped her mother. "Don't be angry. I will go. Tell me where." Big Red Pepper quickly took a small piece of paper out of her bag. Pointing to the paper she said, "Go to these houses. Don't ask these people immediately for work, do you understand? Follow the conversation and watch for an opening. When you have made the inquiries, I will go myself, tomorrow. If I could go everywhere myself I would not put you young ladies to so much trouble. I have run around until my legs ache. But it is not for myself." After Big Red Pepper left Meydee said, "You are thinking about Chung Shih and nothing else." Chung Shih was the second son of the Chien family, the one who was a truck driver. He was strong and intelligent. When driv­ ing his truck his face was red and his hair untidy. When he took off his blue overalls and changed into ordinary clothes, with his hair combed straight, he looked like a clean, neat young engineer. Although he was a close neighbor of the Kuan family, he liad never taken any notice of the people in the Kuan compound. First, be50

cause he was not often at home; and second, because he was very fond of machinery. Every day, from morning to night, if he was not working on the engine of a motorcar ( he had already learned how to repair cars), he was taking apart and putting together again an old watch or a radio. He had no thought of women. His fiancee was a cousin of his brother's wife and had been spoken for him by his mother. He saw that his sister-in-law was quiet and well-man­ nered so he was willing to believe that his sister-in-law's cousin would also not be bad. He had not opposed the family when they arranged the match but he had shown no eagerness to get married. When his mother asked him, "When shall we make the marriage feast?" he always answered, "No hurry, wait until I have opened an auto repair shop. Then will be time enough to set the day." His ambition was to have a small shop of this kind in which he was the master and the help, and in which he could make all kinds of repairs. He liked to lie under a car and work. To see a car which could not move, move again, when he had finished work on it, gave him the greatest pleasure. At one time he had driven for a company which had cars run­ ning to the Warm Springs, north of Peiping. Once Kaodee had joined a group making the trip to the Warm Springs and had hap­ pened to go in the car driven by Chung Shih. As she had a tendency to car sickness she sat next to the driver, and recognized him. Chung Shih had never noticed her but when they began to talk and he knew that she was the daughter of the Kuan family he became extra polite. To Chung Shih this was natural and according to the code of human relationships; he had no other idea, but to Kaodee, because his appearance was lovable, this was the beginning of a romance. After she met Chung Shih, any sound from the west compound would make her heart beat. Patiently and with great pains, she made inquiry about the Chien family affairs but these were not known to many. From the telephone directory she found the ad­ dress of the motorcar company. She would often go out of her way to pass back and forth in front of the garage, hoping that she would see Chung Shih. But she never saw him, and she felt a loving pain . She used her imagination to fill in where she lacked information. She manufactured for Chung Shih, experiences, character, ability, and made a most ideal young man . According to Meydee, all in the Chien family were queer; and Chung Shih, though indeed a handsome young man, was too low in profession and standing. Even though her sister had no beauty she should not marry a truck driver. In the heart of Kaodee, how51

ever, Chung Shih was one who could do everything, knew every­ thing. For the time being he was driving cars as a pastime only. You could never tell on what day he would pierce through and become a hero, or would inherit a fortune and become a wealthy man. Whenever Meydee teased her she would reply seriously, "I would like so much to talk with him. I am sure that he knows everything." Today, when Meydee taunted her with Chung Shih, Kaodee again answered her seriously, "All right, what if he is a truck driver? It is much better than to kneel down and beg a posi­ tion from the Japanese. Much better."

Chapter Seven 'tJ EY SHUAN did not stop to put on his hat but went out quickly. � Rey Shuan taught in two schools . One was a municipal school in which he taught eighteen hours a week, all classes in Eng­ lish. The other was a Catholic cathedral school for students who needed to make up work. There he taught only four hours of Chi­ nese. He taught these four hours, not for the very slight pay but because he liked, by talking with the Italian fathers and those of other nations, to learn a little Latin and French. The main streets had not changed in appearance. He had hoped that the streets would be frightfully different so that he could grit his teeth in rage. But the streets looked as they always did except that the people and the cars were not as numerous as usual . As his father had told him, the shops were all open. But they did not seem to have much business. The well-behaved clerks were sitting quietly behind their counters, some nodding and ·some staring at the streets. The rickshaws for hire were beginning to come out onto the streets and were parked at the stands . The rickshaw boys, how­ ever, were not making jokes and telling stories as usual. Some of them were leaning quietly against the wall and some were sitting on the steps of their own rickshaws. Arriving at the school, Rey Shuan found that classes had really started though not all the students were there, and there were none of his classes that day. He went to see the Italian priest, Father Donofiro. In ordinary times Father Donofiro was a very kind man. Today, in Rey Shuan's eyes, he seemed cold and conceited. Rey Shuan did not know whether this was a fact or his own oversensi­ tivity. After saying a few words the priest said with a stern face that Rey Shuan had been absent from his classes. Rey Shuan 52

controlled himself and said, "Under circumstances like these I thought the classes must have stopped." "Oh !" The priest's manner was very arrogant. "In ordinary times you all love your country but when the cannon sounds you all hide." Rey Shuan swallowed and was silent and again controlled him­ self. He felt that the words of the priest had some reason . The people of Peiping really had less of the spirit of adventure than the Westerners and fewer heroic attitudes . The priest was a repre­ sentative of God and should speak the truth. Rey Shuan smiled and asked with sincerity for his opinion, "Father Donofiro, how will this war between China and Japan develop?" The priest also wanted to smile but a feeling of contempt held back the smile. "I do not know. I know only that it is an ordinary thing in Chinese history to change dynasties." Rey Shuan's face burned hotly. In the face of the priest he saw the baser nature of human beings : to worship success no matter in what evil way it be acquired; and to despise and insult those that fail . He did not say a word but walked out. After he had walked a short distance he turned around and went back. In the teachers' room he wrote on a piece of paper that he would not be back to teach again and asked someone to take it to Father Donofiro. As Rey Shuan entered the gate of his home he saw Old Man Chi and his father, with Rey Feng and his wife, standing under the date tree talking. Rey Feng had several half-red dates in his hands. He was eating as he talked. "This will do. It does not matter whether the Japanese are good or the Chinese are good, if only there is someone to take responsibility. Everything can be ar­ ranged between the Japanese and us; then our minds will all be settled." As he was speaking he pushed the date seeds with his tongue and spat them on the ground. Then again, very cleverly, he threw another date in the air and caught it in his mouth . Rey Feng had a dry skin. In no place on his head was any mois­ ture. Because of this he groomed himself especially. Wherever he could use the arts of man to make up for what nature had denied him, he put in time, capital, and work. His hair was always parted in the middle and dripping with hair lotion. His little dry face was always shaved very clean like a newly-peeled water chestnut smeared with after-shave lotion. The nails of his little dry fingers were filed very even and polished. His clothes were made with great care and 10£ flashy designs. If he should wander around the Bridge of Heaven area people would have taken him to be a lute player for a popular 53

sing-song girl. What he considered important were always the most practical things or problems . The road he took was always the short cut. He had no ideals whatsoever. He was the business manager of a middle school. Neither Rey Shuan nor Rey Tang liked the Second. But Old Man Chi and the parents liked him very much because his realism made the old people feel that he was safe and dependable and would not draw trouble from outside nor create difficulties. If it were not that he had married a modern girl of his own choice the old people would have appointed him home manager. He could buy so advantageously, he could cultivate people, he could-like an old woman-talk with the seven aunts and the eight uncles. But unfortunately, he had married "that person." He was practical but his wife was selfish. The old people saw that these two together made something that could not be depended on, so the Second lost the most important position in the family. In revenge for this he made a habit of never inquiring about home affairs but waited until the eldest brother or the sister-in-law paid too much for anything or made a mistake. He would then criticize them even to the point of attacking them. "Elder Brother," said Rey Feng very affectionately to show his inner happiness, "in our school we decided, for the time being, to use the reserve fund for running expenses . Each person, whether headmaster, teacher, or clerk, will be paid twenty dollars a month for living expenses . Most likely they will have to do something like this at your school also. Twenty dollars will not be enough for my rickshaw fares and smokes but it is a way to manage after all. Is it not so? I am told that the important Japanese, military and political, had a meeting today in the Japanese Embassy. Before long they will be able to announce which Japanese and which Chinese will be responsible for the various posts. I think the funds for the schools will be found as soon as there are people to take responsibility. The reserve fund will not last long but that's all right, it's a beginning. What matters who is to organize the gov­ ernment? It will be good if we can but earn money to live." Rey Shuan smiled in a dignified manner and did not dare to express his own opinion. He knew that between father and son and between brother and brother sometimes the safest way is to keep silence. Old Man Chi nodded continuously, agreeing entirely with the words of his second grandson but he did not say anything because the second granddaughter-in-law was also there. He did not like to praise his grandson and increase the conceit of the couple. 54

"Did you go to the cathedral? How was it?" his father asked Rey Shuan . Rey Feng quickly put in his word. "Elder Brother, that school is the foundation, the safest part of your income. No one can say what will be the outlook for the public schools, perhaps I should say, the Chinese-managed schools . The schools managed by for­ eigners are 'crops with iron stems,' like the imperial pension grain. You should get a few more hours work there. Foreigners will never reduce you to a living allowance only." Rey Shuan had thought that for the time being he would not tell his family about his experiences in the school . He would wait until he had found other work to make up the loss. But when the Second stung him in this way he flared up. Still smiling, but with a smile that was not pleasant to see, he said in a low voice but very clearly, "I have already given up those four hours ." Rey Shuan turned abruptly and went into the third brother's room. Old Three was lying on his bed reading a book bound with string. The foreign books had all been burnt by his eldest brother. He was reading this book because he wanted to see why the books bound in the Chinese way, with string, were safe. Having picked up one and having read it awhile he understood. It was a com­ mentary on one of the Four Confucian Classics. Patiently and very slowly he read the large ideographs. They were printed very clearly but they seemed like the old supporting cast on the stage, who wore the old faded clothes and hats, and pretended to act but had no spirit. When he read scientific books, whether in a foreign lan­ guage or in Chinese, the little closely printed words were like fleas, both bright and black. He knitted his brows and used his eyes to catch them-one at a time-to put in his mind. He would spend a lot of his mental energy and eyesight, but having read a paragraph he would have a whole piece of knowledge and would be happy. The more he used his mind the stronger it became. The fine little words and the clear diagrams made his mind broader and his imagination more active. From these small printed words and dia­ grams he could think of the order of the universe, the greatness of the universe, and its solemnity and beauty. When playing basket­ ball he felt that his entire body was strength and muscles and his mind empty. When reading he forgot his body and felt only that everywhere in the universe was the most profound knowledge. Now he could not make head or tail of this book-the old book with the large ideographs. He did not know after all his reading what it was about. He began to understand why the enemy was not afraid of the books with the Chinese bindings. 55

"Eldest Brother, you went out?" He threw his book aside and sat up. Rey Shuan told him of his experience with the priest. Then he added, "It's nothing, but I am somewhat more at ease." "I am glad, Eldest Brother, that you showed such spirit," Rey Tang said with excitement. "Of what use is such spirit? Can I keep it up?" "Of course it's useful. People without integrity are like those who hunt all day for food, like chickens picking up food with their heads down. How long can you keep this spirit? That is hard to say, Eldest Brother. You suffer for the whole family, including me. We all weigh you down." "Every time I think of Father Donofiro's expression, I feel I must go and fight for the honor of the Chinese people. If even the priests cannot respect us, how much will others if we continue to be cowards with our heads bent? No one in the whole world will sympathize with us or respect us." "Eldest Brother, you talk this way but still you do not let me go." "I do not keep you from going. When I see the time has come, I will certainly let you go." "But please keep it a secret. Do not tell even Sister-in-law." "Of course." "It is my mother that I am worried about. Her body is so weak. If I steal away will she not weep herself to death?" Rey Shuan was silent for a while and said, "What can you do about that? The country has been invaded. The family will be destroyed also." ·

Chapter Eight thoroughly that the time for K the harmonious rhythm believed of his luck was approaching. Every­ UAN T H E MORNING LOTUS

where he went he talked most fluently and loquaciously, talked until his voice became harsh and there was a bad taste in his mouth. He bought breath-sweetening pills and kept them in his mouth as though there should be something for his mouth to do when he was not talking. Although there was no progress in his affairs, still going everywhere he had learned of many new schemes and theories. Those bought from A he peddled to B, those learned from B he told to the people at C. If he had succeeded in getting a position he would not have concerned himself about his old neighbors, but since he had no 56

place and no certainty of one he began to think about his neighbors . As he walked around these days he saw everywhere many learned people who were prepared to use their poetry and literary works to make friends with the Japanese. There were even those who were thinking of establishing a society for the poets of both nations. These conversations and plans made Kuan the Morning Lotus think of Mr. Chien. Mr. Chien was a poet who could also paint pictures and also he loved to cultivate flowers . The heart of Kuan the Morning Lotus beat more quickly. He thought, "If I can carry Mr. Chien's banner and establish a poetry society or set up a little flower shop, I could be manager of either. Could I not then attract the Japanese to myself? Why run around and talk daily to people who have no more to say in public affairs than grand­ fathers and grandmothers." Kuan the Morning Lotus wanted very much to call on Mr. Chien but he was afraid of knocking his head against a stone wall. He thought of the time he had seen Mr. Chien outside the Chi family compound and he did not want to bump his head again against such a nail. He thought it would be best to go to the Chi family first and make inquiries. If Rey Shuan knew anything of Mr. Chien's plans he could then go with knowledge to Mr. Chien's house. Kuan the Morning Lotus put a pill into his mouth, combed his hair, and went to call on the Chi family. "Rey Shuan," Morning Lotus took Rey Shuan's hand and spoke his name in an affectionate way, "you are not busy? I have come to see you." He went with Rey Shuan into the room and sat down . First he praised Little Precious, and then he spoke of the thing on his mind. "What news is there?" "No news ." "Too heavy and suffocating!" Morning Lotus was sure that Rey Shuan had something he could say but would not, so set forth his own ideas to exchange for information . "I have been out almost constantly these last few days. Reliable news is scarce but gen­ erally speaking I have been able to get clearly the direction in which the big affairs are going. Generally speaking we all think that Japan and China must co-operate." "Who are we?" Rey Shuan did not like to offend his guest but with a man like Mr. Kuan he could not help putting thorns in his words. Mr. Kuan felt the thorn and rolled his eyes as he said, "Of course we all hope that China can use force and stop the invasion 57

but whether we can fight the Japanese or not is the problem. As for Peiping, undoubtedly for the time being it will be occupied by the Japanese. So I think that people like us, who have . ability, should come out to do something so that our people will suffer less . In the Little Sheep Fold I respect only you, Elder Brother, and Mr. Chien. I am especially concerned about you two. How has Mr. Chien been these days?" "I have not been to see him." "Has he or has he not any, ah-activity?" "I do not know. I do not think he would make any effort to get a position. He is a poet." "It is not unheard of for poets to make efforts to get official positions. I am told that the poet Tu Shou Ling will, very prob­ ably, come out and take a high position." Rey Shuan did not want to continue the conversation. "Shall we not go together to see Mr. Chien?" "Another day." ''What day? You set the time." Rey Shuan, thus pushed into a corner, could only change from being casual to attacking. "What do you want with him?" "That's it." The eyes of the Morning Lotus emitted light. "That is just what I wanted to talk over with you. I know Mr. Chien is a poet, an artist, and likes flowers. The Japanese also like these. We-you and I and Mr. Chien-could protect ourselves. Perhaps, if we organized a poets-and-painters society, we could make friends with the Japanese. We might then h.ave some possibilities for openings. This is the way to do it. It is · certainly a way of peace." "I think Mr. Chien would never consent to any such plan." "We have not seen him yet, how can you tell? If what is in people's hearts is not said distinctly, how can it be known?" Rey Shuan's face began to turn red. "I will not do any such thing." He thought that this would certainly offend Mr. Kuan and that there would be an end of his importunity. Mr. Kuan was not offended and he smiled. "You do not write poems and do not paint pictures . That does not matter. Neither do I. What I am saying is that we should get Mr. Chien to make . the goods and we two do the business-to start early and advertise the wares. The Japanese will smell the fragrance on the breeze and come. Our Little Sheep Fold will become the center of culture." Rey Shuan could control himself no longer. He forced a laugh. "Think it over." Mr. Kuan stood up. "I think this is worth doing. If we succeed it will be of value to us. If we do not succeed, there 58

will be no harm done." As he talked he walked into the courtyard. "How about it? I will give a party and invite Mr. Chien and we can all talk it over. If you do not like to come to my house I will have the wine and meats brought over here. What do you think?" Rey Shuan could not speak. When they had reached the main gate Mr. Kuan again asked, "How about it?" Rey Shuan did not know what he said as he turned and went back into his court. He thought of Father Donofiro's words and putting Father Donofiro's words and Mr. Kuan's words together he shivered. Kuan the Morning Lotus returned to his home and found that Mrs. Kuan had just come back. She was changing her clothes and calling for wash water and sour-plum nectar. All the powder had disappeared from her face. She was breathing loudly. Her manner was expansive as though she had just taken two or three machine guns from the enemy. Big Red Pepper believed that her husband's chances for getting money and position were assured. This was not because she had faith in her husband's ability but because she believed that her own hands and eyes could reach heaven. In the last few days she · had already becom·e sworn sister to five rich concubines, and had at the same time won over two thousand dollars at mah-jongg. She prophesied that before long she would be sworn sister with Japanese women and be able to invite Japanese military and po­ litical officials to play mah-jongg in her house. Because she was pleased with herself she found fault with others . "Meydee, Meydee, what have you been doing? And you Kaodee, what? Are you on strike at this time when extra effort is needed?" She was pointing at the elm to revile the willow. She was speaking to the two young ladies but her aim was in another direction. "How is it? Afraid to walk out for fear the sun will blacken your faces. My skin is old. I am not afraid of the sun. I know how to help my husband to make the family prosperous. I cannot think only of keeping my face white like a little ghoul." Having spoken she listened to hear if Peach Blossom would counterattack. She was ready for a big campaign. Peach Blossom, however, did not say anything. Big Red Pepper turned her guns toward her husband. "What have you done today that you do not go out? Are you leaving everything to me alone? Aren't you ashamed? Go, it is still early. Be good, and go out at least once: You are not a bound-footed little girl who is afraid of spreading her feet by walking." "I will go, I will go," said Mr. Kuan in a sing-song voice to 59

show that he was not afraid of his wife. "I beg Madame not to be angry." Having spoken, he put on his hat and affecting an indolent manner, he went out. After he had gone Peach Blossom opened fire on Big Red Pep­ per. She was very clever at timing her attacks. When Mr. Kuan was at home, if she could hold her anger, she held it, in order to avoid being in the position of the . one who started the engagement. Waiting until he had gone out, her bullets would begin to drop. Big Red Pepper's words were already insulting enough. Peach Blossom's words were several degrees more insulting. She could curse until even she herself felt that her words were not good to hear, but she would excuse herself by saying, "I am a sing-song girl and I don't care." Peach Blossom did not remember who her parents were. The surname she used was that of the old woman who had cared for her and the other little girls learning to be sing-song girls. She had been stolen and sold when she was four years old. When she was eight, she had begun to learn to sing; and as she was clever, she began to appear on the tea-house stages and sing when she was only ten. At thirteen she was raped by her teacher. Her skin was smooth and fine and her two eyes were especially alluring. Her voice was good in quality but without much depth and as she sang her voice would gradually disappear but her eyes made up for what she lacked in voice. When she mounted the stage she would sweep her eyes from left to right so that each per­ son in the audience thought that she were looking at him. Because of this she had had a period of special popularity. She was already twenty-two when she came to Peiping. She had not been very suc­ cessful in Peiping, because there were so many famous singers in the city and because she had had two abortions which made her voice even less strong. It was in this period of small success that Mr. Kuan had bought her out, if for no other reason than that, Big Red Pepper being so tall, he had for a long time wanted to marry a short woman. If Peach Blossom had been able to study for a few years in a regular way, she could have become a very useful little matron . Even without education, if she could have married in a regular way, she could have made a good housewife. She well knew that beautiful clothes, words pleasant to the ear, rich banquets, were all poison that would make her mind and body rot. In public she used her alluring eyes, her songs,-her wit, but in private she washed her face with tears. She had no parents, no brothers or sister, no relatives. When she opened her eyes she looked on an empty world. 6o

In this empty world she had to smile at everybody and make eyes in order to earn her two meals a day. At the age of twenty she already understood that all was nothing. She had hoped to meet a steady man who could give her some reality in life but she was only to become a concubine. If she could have got a good man, except that she could not control her eyes, she would have changed her bad habits. A concubine, however, was a toy of a man so she had to keep those habits to please him. In addition there was Big Red Pepper's jealousy and oppression. So, not to lose the food already in her mouth, she would try all the more to please her husband. In her heart she was no worse than others. Perhaps because she had been around the country she had a more than ordinary share of generosity. Taking her as a woman, she was not more unvirtuous than other women even though she had lost her virginity at thirteen and had had two abortions by the time she was twenty, for those had not been her own fault. But because of all this, the more Big Red Pepper attacked her the more she fought back. Today her quarreling was not only for herself but also for her old home, Mukden. She remembered the banks of the Little River, where she had sold her songs. She knew that the Japanese had taken her Mukden and knew that they were ill-treating her coun­ trymen . So she deeply hated Big Red Pepper and her plans to make friends with the Japanese. Kaodee was the only friend she had in the family. Kuan the Morning Lotus was good to her but his love for her was only af­ fectionate playing; he had no respect for her. Since Kaodee was not popular she was naturally looking for a friend. She treated Peach Blossom as an equal and Peach Blossom treated her with sincerity. After Peach Blossom had shouted and cursed at length Kaodee came over and begged her to be quiet. After thunder and rain it is often a clear fine day. Peach Blossom having cleared out the black humors was especially affectionate with Kaodee. The two began to talk from their hearts . After a while Peach Blossom started on a complaint against the world. "To be born a woman-I tell you, my young lady-has nothing to be said for it. A woman is like a kite. Although it floats in the air very prettily, red like a flower and green like 'the willow leaves, the string is in the hands of others. If you do not want to be tied, and break that string-well-you can fall head down into a tree or hang from a telegraph wire. With tail and wings torn off it would be worse to look at than almost anything." Complaining awhile she brought the talk around to Kaodee's 6i

great intent in Mr. Chien's second son, for Kaodee had confided her secret to Peach Blossom. "I never have seen the second son of the western neighbor, but if you want to marry, be sure to marry a steady man. Do not be afraid of poverty. Only be sure that the young couple can live alone-that is important. You have no need of haste. I will make inquiries for you . My life is finished. I have no person that is close to me anywhere under the skies . It is true that I have a husband, but he does not really count as a husband. It is only because my heart is wide and my skin thick that I have not long since drowned myself. I hope that you will have a good mar­ riage so that we have not been friends for nothing." Kaodee's short nose creased with a smile.

Chapter Nine .,.,HE SKY in Peiping was higher. August thirteenth and the sound \/ of guns in Shanghai pushed aside the black cloud that had hung over the heads of the people in Peiping. Rey Feng with an eye on the wind altered his course. Seeing that the news of the fighting in Shanghai pleased the family he felt that he ought to follow the sound of their voices like an echo. He had not thought much about whether it was better for his country to resist or not to resist. He wanted only an attitude that others would not despise. But as he was about to praise resistance he changed his mind quickly for his wife's words were quite different from those of the others. Mrs. Rey Feng, to say the best of her, was well built. To say the worst she was-in a word-a mound of flesh. Her height was not great. She had no neck. When one looked at her suddenly she re­ minded one of a beer barrel. Her face was stupid and she smeared it with make-up. Her hair was curled until it was a hen's nest. She looked dull and uninteresting. Rey Feng was so thih and dry and his wife so full and fat that when Rey Tang was angry he would call them, 'The Equalization of the Hard and the Soft." She was not only a mound of flesh, she was a mound of selfish flesh. "What is there to rejoice about, that there is fighting in Shanghai?" Her thick lips moved slowly. "I have never been to Shanghai. If the cannon lay it flat I will never see it." "It will not be laid flat," Rey Feng said, his face full of smiles. "The fighting is in the Chinese section. The tall foreign buildings are in the concessions. How can they be flattened? Even if they were unfortunately destroyed it would not matter. By the time we 6z

have the money to go sight-seeing they will have long since been built up again. Foreigners are so wealthy that when they say build, they build. When they say tear down, they tear down-all very quickly." "No matter what you say, I do not like to hear of the fighting in Shanghai. Could they not have waited until we had been there at least once?" Rey Feng was embarrassed. He had no power to stop the war and he did not like to offend his wife. The only thing he could do was to stop talking about the battle in Shanghai. "When we have money we will go to Shanghai." His silence did not pacify her. "When will you have enough money? I was cheated when I married you. Look at this family. Old, young-men and women­ all are misers. It seems that going to the movies once a week is a crime. From morning to night there is no talk, no laughter, no amusement-always with mouths shut as if we were at a funeral." "You must not be impatient." Rey Feng's dry face seemed about to crack with his smile. Then he said very seriously, "Wait until my affairs are a little better and I earn enough for us to spend. We'll move away and leave them." "Wait, wait, wait, always wait. Wait till when?" Mrs. Rey Feng's fat face flushed. Little spots of moisture appeared on her nostrils. The Chinese airplanes had come out and fought. The hearts of the people in Peiping rose high. The sound of the airplanes seemed always to be in the ears of Little Tsui, the riskshaw puller. He lifted his head and searched the skies. He saw an enemy plane but insisted that it was Chinese. His melon face turned red as he argued with the barber, Sun the Seventh. "In matters of shaving and haircutting, I have nothing to say. You have your master­ teacher and have served your apprenticeship, but in a matter o f eyesight you should keep your mouth shut. Your eyes, sir, d o not see far and I can see clearly. The blue sky and the white su-n are on the wings of the plane. There is no mistake. If our planes can bomb Shanghai they can certainly bomb Peiping." Sun the Seventh was pleased to have "our planes" come to Peiping but he argued a bit with Little Tsui. When Little Tsui attacked his eyesight, however, he had to admit defeat. He took the little cloth bundle of the tools of his profession under his arm and went smiling to the shops to do his work. To his customers in the shops he enlarged on the words of Little Tsui. While he pressed their heads down with one hand and with the other used the razor on their faces and under their chins, he said in a loud but 63

very serious voice, "I have just seen seven of our bombers-very large. On their wings were painted very clearly the blue sky and white sun." Under the hazard of the razor they did not dare to argue with him. Little Tsui, humming popular songs, pulled his rickshaw out to the parking place. He was still broadcasting that he had seen a Chinese plane. If he saw Japanese soldiers he would run like the wind and when there was a distance between them, he would say loudly so his customer might hear, "Kill all the turtles." Then he would tell his customer about "our planes coming to Peiping." Fourth Master Li had had no work for a long time. Outside the city there was still the sound of guns from time to time, and for several days the policemen were on strike. Who dared to move their household goods? Today, however, he had work. It was not to move anyone's furniture, it was a funeral. His real profession was to move household goods, but in these years of his age, he also worked as a conductor of funerals . Since he knew how to move boxes and chairs and tables, naturally he could also move coffins. In the Street of the Temple of National Protection the coffin was lifted to the great carrying frame. A handful of paper money like great white butterflies was floating in the air. Fourth Master Li an­ nounced the wine-money in a sharp clear voice, "The family give eighty thousand cash." The bearers with one voice cried, "Ahhhhhh ." Fourth Master Li, wearing a white mourning coat, struck with energy the sounding stick he held in his hand-giving the signals. It was as though he had forgotten all his worries and all his sorrows . Fourth Mistress Li-to watch her husband conduct the funeral­ stood outside the entrance to the Little Sheep Fold, near the edge of the main road. Managing a funeral was a responsible business and a dignified one. She rubbed her eyes several times before she saw Fourth Master Li. Smiling she said to herself, "Look at the Old Thing." The shed-builder, Master Liu, also had work today. The police had ordered all the families who had summer mat-sheds over their courts to take them down at once. The police did not tell the peo­ ple the reason for taking away the sheds but everyone guessed that the Japanese feared the coming of Chinese planes to bomb, and mats caught fire easily. So Master Liu was very busy taking down sheds. He stood high on the housetops, hoping to see a few of "our planes." Little Wen and his wife practiced their singing today in the courtyard as if they need never again feel ashamed. Even Old 64

Widow Ma of Number Four came to the gate to look. Her courage was very small. From the time the guns had begun to sound after the incident at Marco Polo Bridge, she had not crossed the thresh­ old of the gate. Nor would she allow her daughter's son-nineteen­ year-old Cheng Chang Shun-who wandered about the streets with a music box, to go to work. Widow Ma was kinder even than Fourth Mistress Li. She had been a widow from the time she was thirty-five years old, and was steady and careful. Her hair was completely white. Her body from her head to her feet was groomed very neatly. On her fingers she wore heavy rings of the designs of forty years ago. She had some savings but her way of living was very simple. The grandson-nineteen-year-old Cheng Chang Shun-had come to live with his mother's mother when he was eight years old, when his parents had died. His head was very large and he talked with a nasal sound as if he were always suffering from a cold. Because of his large head and the nasal quality of his voice he seemed stupid but in fact he was not at all stupid. His grandmother was very good to him. She gave him meat every meal while she herself was a vegetarian. When she selected a business for him it was after much thinking. She had bought an old gramophone and two dozen old records and had him go out in the afternoons and walk about the streets. Chang Shun liked this business of playing his records in peoples' homes. He also liked to sing himself. His business was also his pastime. He could sing all the records he had, and if a record broke and part of it was gone he could make it up with his own singing. Sometimes when he had played half a dozen records, his customers would ask him to sing himself. Although when talking he seemed to mumble his words, his singing was deep and powerful . His busi­ ness was not bad . Many people waited especially for him and would not patronize others. His nasal tones became his trade-mark. His ambition was eventually to go on the stage and play the parts of the painted faces . Today Chang Shun said to his grandmother, "It is not dangerous any more. I can now go out and do my work. They are fighting also in Shanghai. Our planes have gone out to bomb the Japanese devils . We will certainly win and when our soldiers have conquered in Shanghai, Peiping will be at peace also." The grandmother did not believe Chang Shun's words so she courageously came out to see for herself, as if from the gate she could see Shanghai. The old woman's white hair shone in the sunshine with a silver 65

halo. The green light reflected from the locust tree� softened her face and the wrinkles became faint fine lines. There was no one in the open space under the locust trees; there was no sound of talking in the Little Sheep Fold; there was no sound anywhere. She stood in the gateway alone for a while and then returned to her room. Everyone in the Little Sheep Fold was happy and all prepared to welcome the victory. Only Kuan the Morning Lotus was not par­ ticularly happy. While seeking a position he had not seen t::ven "the eyes or eyebrows" of a job. Suppose China were victorious . He decided very unhappily to stop his activities for a few days to see in which direction the wind would blow. Big Red Pepper would not own to the facts. "What's the matter with you? Things are just beginning. Why do you relax now? Fight­ ing in Shanghai! What has that to do with us? You think those fellows-those few soldiers in Nanking-can overcome the Japa­ nese? If there were six Nankings it would still make no difference." Big Red Pepper was like one possessed, as though the wealth and enjoyment for the whole of her life would depend on the effort now being made. She absolutely would not give up midway. John Ting was the only one in the Little Sheep Fold who asso­ ciated with the Kuan family. He looked down on all the other families and as none of them especially respected him, each family went its own way. He respected the Kuan family and the Kuan family appreciated his foreign airs. This laid the foundation of friendship. He often also brought butter or coffee from the "Pal­ ace," or the real Oxford marmalade, and only the Kuan family wanted them. They understood the quality. So there were many dealings between these two families, and he always sold these for­ eign foods to the Kuan family at a reasonable price. John Ting's father had been a Christian. In the year 1 900, he had been killed by the Boxers and so since the father had been martyred the son had the protection of the foreigners. He had been a "boy" in the British Embassy from the time he was thirteen and had gradually been promoted to being table-boy or waiter. Although he was a waiter-not a very noble profession from the point of view of the people of the Little Sheep Fold-John Ting was not one of the common lot. He was an adept at blowing up his own reputation. Whenever he mentioned himself and his connections he would say that he was an "hereditary Christian" as though it were some order of nobility. Whenever he was asked his profession he always said that he was in foreign affairs in the English Palace. He always called the Embassy the Palace-for a palace is only a 66

degree lower than the home of the emperors, the Forbidden City . He lived in three northern rooms, the best in the courtyard; not like Sun the Seventh or Little Tsui who lived each in only one room. His three rooms were arranged very neatly and he also had many foreign "art objects." On the table were many foreign books, the same in content but with different covers-the Four Gospels and the Holy Hymns. On the shelves were many broken but usable beer mugs, champagne cups, and glass bottles of many shapes, and coffee tins. His clothes were also special : he often wore a foreign sack coat outside his long Chinese gown in the way a Chinese cere­ monial topcoat of black satin was worn . Of course it was a "foreign ceremonial topcoat." Today he had brought only a half bottle of Scotch and he planned to give the whisky to Mr. Kuan. If John Ting had been a waiter in a foreign restaurant Big Red Pepper would not have been willing to notice him even if he had brought butter and canned goods daily. John Ting, however, was a waiter in the English Palace and there was quality in those two words. If the eunuchs of the Imperial Palace-maimed slaves iq reality-got respect from people because they worked in the Im­ perial Palace so Big Red Pepper could also look with different eyes at John Ting. She felt that John Ting himself and the things that he brought were nothing rare, but what impressed her was the label "English Palace." John Ting came from the English Palace so the things he brought came from the English Palace also, and this gave Big Red Pepper and the English Palace a relationship that could be a matter for pride. Whenever she brought out coffee or marma­ lade for her guests she would be sure to tell them over and over that "this came from the English Palace." These two words, "Eng­ lish Palace," seemed stuck in her mouth and as beautiful and sweet as chewing gum. When she saw John Ting with a bottle of whisky she at once stopped scolding her husband and brought all the smiles she could muster to her face. "Yo ! John Ting!" She especially liked the name John. Although it was not so grand or great as the words English Palace, it had at least as strong a foreign flavor as the words sardine and whisky. John Ting was over forty. His face was shaved very clean. His back was straight. His eyes never looked directly at anyone. He seemed always to be concerned with peoples' hands as if these hands were always holding knives and forks . When he heard Big Red Pepper's affectionate greeting he answered only with a little ·

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smile from his eyes. He had worked in the British Embassy so long that he dared not talk out or laugh loudly. "What have you brought?" Big Red Pepper asked. "Whisky. A gift for you, Madame Kuan." "Give me?" Her heart beat faster a time or two for she was very fond of small bargains . She took the bottle, holding it in her arms as if it were a baby. "Thank you-ahhhh-John. What tea will you drink? Better have some jasmine tea. You drink red tea in the English Palace and should have a change." "Sit down, John." Mr. Kuan was also very polite to him. "What is the news? What is the opinion in the English Palace about the battle in Shanghai?" "Can China win in the war against Japan? The foreigners say that probably in three months, at most in half a year, it will all be over." John Ting spoke objectively as if he were not a Chinese but a diplomat of some foreign country in China. "How will it end?" "The Chinese army will be beaten." When Big Red Pepper heard this she became so excited she nearly dropped the bottle of whisky. "Morning Lotus, did you hear? Although I am a woman I have not less insight than you men. Be bold. Don't miss your opportunity."

Chapter Ten

J vi:

John Ting's pronouncement, Kuan the Morn­ ing Lotus decided to join the monkey show and to disregard the resistance in Shanghai as something without meaning. Since both the Mayor and the Commissioner of Police had been an­ nounced, he decided to try for contacts in the office of the City Government and that of the Police Commissioner. He and Big Red Pepper ran around again for three or four days but there were still no results. News and rumors-like winds, now hot and now cold-came to Peiping from many directions . Peiping in the minds of the world was already dead, but the people of Peiping still lived as part of the Republic of China. Their hearts still moved with the battles wherever they were : the guerillas in Manchuria were again on the march; about two thousand of the enemy were killed in Nankow; Shihchiachuang was bombed. The communiques, · real and false, followed closely one on another; and each in a very short time had spread throughout the city. The news that most excited the people FTER HE HEARD

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in the Little Sheep Fold was that a young driver in Nankow had taken his truck with more than thirty Japanese soldiers to death with him over a precipice. Who was that young man? No one knew, but all guessed that he must be the second son of the Chien family. · He was young. He was driving a truck north of Peiping. He seldom came home. Surely it must be he. But the Chien family gate remained closed tightly, and there was no way for the neigh­ bors to ask for news . Rey Shuan was both happy and surprised when he heard these whispers. No matter from what motive, Rey Shuan felt that to dare to die was an expression of integrity and honor. The Japanese had invaded Peiping this time but the people seemed to be cleverer than their grandfathers had been in the time of the Boxer trouble. Except for the officers and soldiers who died in battle there were none who sacrificed themselves for their country or their honor, who committed suicide as they had then. When he heard of the action of the second son of the Chien family, Rey Shuan felt that not all the people in Peiping were like himself-indecisive and living in a false peace. The action of the second son of the Chien family was more heroic than suicide and had more meaning. Rey Shuan was afraid that this affair would involve the whole Chien family if the neighbors-because of their admiration for the hero-were careless and used his name as they spread the story. He went to see Fourth Master Li. Fourth Master Li promised to advise all the neighbors secretly not to make any more noise about the matter. And he said in praise, "If we were all like the second son of the Chien family, not only the small Japanese but the big Japanese would not dare to raise their hackles." Rey Shuan wanted very much to go to see Mr. Chien but he did not go. He was afraid of drawing the attention of the neighbors . And he was afraid that if Mr. Chien did not know about this matter, and he spoke of it, he would make the old man anxious . Fourth Master Li warned the neighbors and they all agreed to be more careful . But before he had seen him, Little Tsui had already told the story to Peach Blossom. Peach Blossom had sym­ pathy for the poor and often purposely hired his rickshaw. She would also give him extra money. Peach Blossom liked to gossip with Little Tsui as she sat in his rickshaw. All the domestic affairs at home were managed by Big Red Pepper, and Peach Blossom had no part in them; although she was married she was yet not a housewife . She felt like a prosti­ tute living in a hotel. So she liked to discuss with Little Tsui the 69

longs and the shorts of the families in the Little Sheep Fold. She envied Little Tsui's wife who, although poor and often beaten, was after all a regular housewife. And Little Tsui not only reported all his domestic policies to Peach Blossom but he also talked about the affairs of his neighbors. According to the usual pattern he now reported what he considered to be a glorious thing. "Madame Kuan"-when not in the presence of any of the Kuan family he always called her Madame Kuan in return for her kind­ ness-"a wonderful thing has happened for the Little Sheep Fold." "What wonderful thing?" she asked to give him a chance to take a few deep breaths. "We have heard that the second son of the Chien family killed a truck load of Japanese soldiers." "Really! Who told you?" "Everybody says so." "Ha ! He was good man." "Not all who live in Peiping are useless things." "What happened to him?" "Of course he is dead also. It was war to the death with him." When Peach Blossom returned home she told all this to Kaodee and with even more leaves on the branch. Meydee overheard and immediately told Morning Lotus as if it were her own exclusive communique. Morning Lotus felt no special reaction to Meydee's report. He felt only that the second son of the Chien family was a bit of a fool. Each of us can live but one life. Why, in order to kill others, should one throw away his own life? In the course of an idle con­ versation he told Big Red Pepper. When Big Red Pepper had decided on a course of action she even dreamed about it. Her thoughts were now entirely on the subject of getting her husband an official position. So if the wind blew or a magpie lighted on the eaves of the house, she was sure it had something to do with the rhythm of fate for Mr. Kuan's official life. When she heard this news about the second son of the Chien family she immediately made a new plan. "Morning Lotus"-her eyes blinked and on her face was an exalted and mysterious expression as if the Empress Dowager were discussing national affairs with her cabinet ministers-"go and inform. This is your road to advancement." Morning Lotus was silent. He would take a bribe if offered but he had not the courage to stick out his chest and kill. "How about it?" "Inform! That would mean the whole family." Morning Lotus 70

felt that if the Chien family were taken away and executed, Mr. Chien would certainly return and haunt him. "You softheaded sneak thief, you should think of your own advancement. Why should you care if another's family is extin­ guished? Hasn't Mr. Chien made you eat nails? Don't you want revenge? This is your opportunity." Morning Lotus was moved when he heard the word revenge. Mr. Chien should not have held him off a thousand miles. If the Chien family were blotted out it would be the result of Mr. Chien's own actions and in that case there would probably be no danger of his coming back to haunt Morning Lotus after death. So he said, "Is this news true and reliable?" "Peach Blossom heard it. Ask her." Big Red Pepper had issued an edict. The examination of Peach Blossom did not make Morning Lotus feel the report ten-parts sure. He hesitated to take this news which might be true and might not be true, and use it to seek reward. Big Red Pepper saw differently. She said, "It is not important whether it is true or not. Only inform. What will it matter if the news is false? Our news may be false but our hearts are not. This will let the Japanese know that we are truly on their side. Will that not be to our advantage? If you have not enough courage, I will go." Morning Lotus was still not happy but he dared not let the Empress Dowager trouble herself. All he could do was to agree . Peach Blossom immediately told Kaodee. Kaodee walked around and around in her room. The second son of the Chien family-the hero of her imagination-had now become a real hero . She felt that this hero belonged to her and that she should save the Chien family. But how could she talk with Mr. Chien? He seldom came out and the gate of the compound was always shut tight. If she knocked at the gate her own family would hear and know. If she wrote a letter and slipped it between the halves of the gate it would not do the thing needed . She must see him herself. In that way only could she say all that must be said and say it sincerely. She went to Peach Blossom for help and Peach Blossom sug­ gested climbing over the wall. Peach Blossom said, "Is there not a small locust tree on the west end of our south house? If you climb the tree you can reach the top of the wall." Kaodee was willing to risk the adventure. She was sure that the death of the second son of the Chien family was due to her thoughts of his bravery and her desire that he should be a hero . She decided to climb the wall. She asked Peach Blossom to keep watch for her. 71

At about nine o'clock-Mr. Kuan had not yet returned home, Big Red Pepper had a headache and had gone early to bed, Meydee was in her room reading a love story-Kaodee decided the time had come to go to the west neighbor. She asked Peach Blossom to listen at the gate for her return as she would not need to come back over the wall. Tiny drops of perspiration appeared on her short nose. Her hands and lips trembled slightly. The danger of crawling over the wall and the strangeness of the action made her excited, bold, and a bit afraid. When she got to the other side of the wall she would see the home of the hero and al though the hero was dead she would see something of what he had left behind. She might even get one or two things as keepsakes. As she thought of this her heart beat faster. If Peach Blossom had not given her a couple of shoves she would not have been able to climb that small tree but once on the tree her mind became clear. Danger drove away confusion. She opened her eyes wide and with her trembling hands grasped tightly the top of the wall. After much effort she was over the wall, her hands grasping the top and her feet hanging halfway down. She was breathing heavily and forgot all else. She did not dare to look down and she did not dare to loosen her grip, and hung with her eyes shut for a long time. Suddenly her mind went blank and because there was no strength left in her hands she let go and dropped to the ground. As she was tall and the ground-because Mr. Chien planted flowers-was soft, she felt only a slight shock. Neither in her legs nor in her feet was there any pain . She turned and saw that all the rooms were dark except for a bit of lamplight shining from the west room of the north house. The lamp was shaded and only a tiny bit of light showed. In the courtyard were row on row of flowering plants, tall and short, which looked in the faint light like people squatting. Kaodee's heart beat even faster. Slowly feeling out the ground with her feet, she moved forward. The edge of her gown caught often on the thorns. At last she was in front of the north house. In the room she could hear two people talking in low tones . She held her breath and squatted outside the window. The voices inside the room were those of an old person and a young person. The old one she thought must be Mr. Chien and the young one might be the elder son of the Chien family . After listening awhile, however, she was able to distinguish that the young one did not speak with the Peiping intonation but like a person from Shantung province. This aroused her curiosity. She thought she would stand up and ·

72

see if there were a hole in the paper window. She was so anxious to stand up she forgot the window ledge and bumped her head against it. She said only half of an "ai ya" but those in the room had heard. The lamp was immediately put out. And after a short time Mr. Chien's voice said, "Who is it?" Frightened, she drew into herself. With one hand on her heart and the other on her forehead she half-squatted and half-stood, frozen to the spot. Mr. Chien, walking very lightly, came out and again in a low voice said, "Who is it?" "I," she answered also in a low voice. Mr. Chien was startled and said, "Who are you?" Kaodee stood up very carefully. "Speak more quietly. I am the elder daughter from the neighbor across the wall. I have something to tell you." "Come in." Mr. Chien went in first and lit the lamp. Kaodee's right hand was still rubbing the lump on her head as she slowly walked in. Mr. Chien had been dressed in the informal short coat and now he hastily hunted out his long gown and put it on, buttoning it askew. "Miss Kuan, how did you get in?" Kaodee-her feet wet with dew, her clothes snagged by the thorns, a lump on her forehead, and her hair disordered-looked at herself; and then she looked at Mr. Chien, and felt like laughing. She smiled . Mr. Chien was calm but wondered what could be the meaning of this strange visit. Blinking his eyes he looked at her. "Uncle Chien, I climbed over the wall." She sat on a low stool. "Climbed over the wall !" The poet looked out toward the court­ yard. "Why did you climb over the wall?" "Because I have something important to tell you ." She felt that the old man was so gentle and sincere that he was most lovable. She felt that it was not right that things should be hidden from him. "About your second son." "What about my second son?" "Uncle, you do not know?" "I do not know. He never came back." "All say-all say-" She bent her head and was silent. "What do all say?" "All say that he destroyed a truck load of Japanese soldiers." "Is that true?" The old man's black teeth were shining as he opened his mouth waiting for her reply. 73

"Everybody says so." "Oh-and he?" "Also-" The old man's head sank slowly and his eyes turned aside, away from her. Kaodee stood up quickly thinking the old man was about to weep. Suddenly he lifted his head and though there was moisture in his eyes he was not weeping. He sniffed once and putting out his hand took the wine bottle from under his desk. "Miss Kuan, you-" His words were not clear and the last part of the sentence was lost in his throat. With hands that trembled slightly he poured more than half a cupful of wine and throwing his head back drank a large mouthful. He wiped his mouth with his sleeve and his eyes brightened. Looking up he said quietly, "He died well . Good." He hiccoughed once and bit his lower lip with his black teeth. "Uncle Chien, you must go away." "Go away?" "Go. Everyone is talking about this now. If the Japanese should hear, would it not be a calamity that would destroy the whole family?" "Oh." Mr. Chien smiled and again took up the wine. "I have nowhere to go. This is my home and also my tomb . Would it not be cowardly to run away when the sword is on the neck? Miss Kuan, I thank you. You had better go home. How will you go?" Kaodee was very unhappy. She could not tell Mr. Chien of her parents' treachery, and Mr. Chien was so pure and upright and lovable. The daydreams and fantasies of many months were all forgotten. She forgot her love for the second son and that she had come to see the home of ·the hero. She was face to face with an admirable old man about to be persecuted. She should make a plan to save him but could think of none. Covering her uneasiness with a slight smile she said, "I need not climb the wall again." "Of course not, of course not. I will open the gate for you." He first drank the wine in the cup and staggered twice. Kaodee steadied him. The old man braced himself and said, "It's all right. I will open the gate." He walked out of the room and as he walked he said to himself, "A good death, a good death, my-" He did not dare to speak his son's name. He stood awhile with his hands on the frame of the door. The flowers in the courtyard were giving off fragrance. He drew a deep breath. Kaodee could not understand the complicated emotions of the old poet. She could feel only that in every way Mr. Chien was different from her father. This difference was not in appearance and clothes only but in spirit, in something intangible that she 74

could not name. Mr. Chien was like an old-time book, its characters large and clear, in quiet good taste and dignified. When they had reached the gate .Kaodee spoke from her heart, "Uncle Chien, don't grieve." Mr. Chien murmured a reply. Leaving the gate Kaodee reached home in a few flying steps. The motive which had taken her over the wall was adventure prompted by the mystery of love. To save Mr. Chien had been only a part. But now she felt full and exalted. She forgot the second son and thought only of Mr. Chien. She wanted to tell everything imme­ diately to Peach Blossom. Peach Blossom was waiting for her inside their gate and before Kaodee could knock she had it open. Mr. Chien stood outside his gate with his head lifted, looking at the thick growing leaves of the big locust trees and sighed deeply. Suddenly an idea flashed into his mind and he ran quickly to the Chi family gate. Rey Shuan was just locking the gate for the night when he got there. He called Rey Shuan out, "Have you time? I have something to say to you." "I haye time. I was just locking the gate ,and if you had not come, would have gone to bed. There is nothing for me to do . I cannot even read." "Good, come to my house." "I will go in and tell them." Mr. Chien went back first and waited inside his gate for Rey Shuan, who followed almost immediately. Although it was only a few steps across, he was short of breath after running over. He knew that it must be something very important for Mr. Chien to have come over in the night. When they got to the room Mr. Chien took Rey Shuan' s hand and said, "Rey Shuan." He had thought to tell Rey Shuan about his second son . He not only wanted to talk about his son's sacrifice but he wanted to talk about him, tell everything about him-what he was like as a child, how he went to school, what he liked to eat. He wanted to tell all these things to Rey Shuan, but he swallowed and let go his hand. His lips trembled as if saying to himself, "Why should I bother to talk about those things?" With a gesture of his hands he invited Rey Shuan to sit down, and put his elbows on the table. With his face close to Rey Shuan's he said urgently in a hushed voice, "I want your help." Rey Shuan nodded and did not ask any questions . He felt that whatever Uncle Chien asked him to do he would do immediately. Mr. Chien brought over a little stool and sat down. He shut his eyes for a little while and when he opened them he seemed more 75

calm, the flesh of his face not so taut. He said calmly, "Last night I could not sleep. Night after night for the last few nights I have been unable to sleep. I think that, at the very least, men who have lost their country should not be able to sleep. I could not sleep and thought that I would go outside the gate and walk around . I had opened the gate a crack when I saw a man standing close to the big locust tree. I drew back quickly. You know that I do not like to have much to do with the neighbors . I could not see his face, but the outline of his body was not like any I knew. This aroused my curiosity. I am never one to meddle in the affairs of others, but a person who is sleepless is especially active mentally. I wanted to see who that man was and what he was doing under the tree." Mr. Chien again shut his eyes and then put the few drops left in the cup into his mouth, and savored the liquor. "I did not think he was a petty thief or a robber, because I have no valuables. Nor did I think he was a beggar. I thought that he must have a trouble more serious than lack of food or clothes . With one eye I looked through the crack in the gate and just as I had thought, he was in serious trouble. He was walking very slowly back and forth under the locust tree. After a while he stood still and looked up. Then he again dropped his head and walked slowly back and forth a long time. Suddenly he went rapidly to the blocked-up gate on the west, and loosened his belt. I waited, cruelly I waited . I had to wait until he had tied the belt before I went out. I was afraid that if I went out too soon he would nm away." "You were right." Rey Shuan said this to give the old man a chance to get his breath . "I ran out quickly." Mr. Chien's eyes were bright. "I grasped him around the waist. He struck backwards angrily at me twice. I said gently, 'Friend,' and he stopped struggling and began to tremble all over. If he had continued to struggle I would have had to loosen my grip for he was young and strong. I let go and said one word, 'Come,' and like a little lamb he came in with me." "Is he here now?" Mr. Chien nodded. "What does he do?" "He is a poet." "A poet?" Mr. Chien smiled . "He is a soldier but his spirit is that of a poet. His surname is Wang. He is Sergeant Wang. He was unable to leave when the troops retreated. He has no money and only the suit of worn clothes he has on. To leave was not easy; to hide might involve others. He was also afraid of being captured by the enemy. 76

So he decided to commit suicide. He would rather die than be a prisoner. I said he was a poet. He cannot write poetry but I call those poets who are rich in emotions and pure of heart. We get on well together. I asked you to come because of this man . We must help him escape from the city. I can think of no way. Moreover-" The old man was silent. "And what, Uncle Chien?" The old man's voice was so low he could hardly be heard . "More­ over, I am afraid that if he stays here I will involve him. You know my second son-" Mr. Chien hesitated . "My second son is prob­ ably dead and it may cost my life also. I am told that he destroyed a whole truck load of Japanese soldiers. The Japanese are so petty -how can they forgive me? And if they should come here won't they find Sergeant Wang also?" "Who told you that your son is dead?" "Never mind that." "Uncle, should you not hide?" "I will not think of it. My hand has not the strength to hold a chicken . I cannot kill the enemy and cleanse us of our national shame. I can only face danger without fear. As my son died, so will I. The Japanese will soon discover that he was my son. Yes, if they arrest me I will call out loudly and tell them that he who killed was my son. Well-let's not talk of this . We must come to a decision-how to get Sergeant Wang out of the city at once. He is a soldier and knows how to kill the enemy. We cannot let him die here." Rey Shuan rubbed his face and thought deeply. Mr. Chien again poured half a cup of wine and sipped it slowly. After thinking awhile Rey Shuan suddenly stood up. "I'm going home to talk with Old Three. I'll be back very soon." "Good, I'll wait for you."

Chapter Eleven

0 Shuan THREE, depressed in spirit, had already gone to bed. Rey woke him and told him briefly the important parts LD

of Sergeant Wang's story. Old Three's bright black bean eyes shone like a cat's in the night. The pupils became larger and blacker, and two red spots appeared on his cheek bones. When he had heard the story he said, "We must save him ." Rey Shuan was also excited but kept calm. He did not want to rush into action through excitement. Too great a rush could mean 77

defeat. Calmly and deliberately he said, "I have a plan. I do not know what you will think of it." Old Three with excited hands and fast-moving feet pulled on his trousers and got off the bed as though he would carry Sergeant Wang right away out of the city on his own back. "What is your plan, Eldest Brother?" "Don't rush. We must discuss each detail. This is not a game." Old Three sat patiently on the edge of the bed. "Old Three, I think you can go with him." Old Three stood up again. "That would be wonderful." "There are advantages in this plan and disadvantages . The ad­ vantages-Sergeant Wang is a soldier and once out of the city he will know what to do: He will not let you suffer. The disadvantages -the callous spots on his hands, the manner of his speech, his body movements-all proclaim his occupation to anyone seeing him. It will not be easy to pass the Japanese soldiers guarding the city gates. And if he had the misfortune to get into trouble you would also be involved." "I'm not afraid." Old Three set his teeth tightly and the tendons on his neck stood out. "I know you are not afraid." Rey Shuan wanted to smile but did not succeed. "Courage without foresight does not make success. If we die it must be under the flag with the blue sky and the bright sun. We must not die casually. I will get Fourth Master Li." "He's a good man, but if he has a plan for this kind of thing, I'm sure I don't know what it could be." "I will tell him the plan and if only he is willing-I think my plan is not bad." "What is your plan, what is your plan?" "If Fourth Master Li should be conducting a funeral within the next few days, I think that the two of you could wear heavy mourn­ ing and get out of the city with the mourners, and not be searched." "Eldest Brother, you certainly know a thing or two." Old Three jumped up. "Steady, don't let the family hear you. Once out of the city you must listen to Sergeant Wang. He is a soldier and he will be able to find the army." "We'll do this, Eldest Brother." "You are willing? You will have no regrets?" "Eldest Brother, how can there be regrets for this-leaving the city to avoid being a slave in a conquered country." Rey Shuan thought awhile. "This is what I am trying to say­ leaving the city will not be like going from hell to paradise. There 78

will be many difficulties. Being under fire for five minutes can make anyone a hero, but the real hero is one who-:no matter how much he suffers or for how long a time-still has no regrets and does not let his heart turn to ashes . Remember this, Old Three. If you remember this you will know that to eat manure under the national flag is better than to eat meat under the flag of the rising sun. If you are always as you are this evening, and never down­ hearted or despondent, my heart will be at peace. Well, I'll go to see Fourth Master." Rey Shuan went out to seek Fourth Master Li. The old man was already asleep but Rey Shuan woke him. Fourth Mistress also got up and put in her sixes and sevens-if it wasn't that Mrs. Chi was going to have · a baby, it must be that someone had been taken ill suddenly and a doctor was wanted. It was only after Rey Shuan had explained that she understood he had come to talk a matter over with Fourth Master. She then decided that she must boil a pot of water to make tea for the guest, and Rey Shuan could not stop her. Also if she left the room it would save their talking at cross purposes. Wrapping her clothes around her, she went out to fetch firewood and build a fire to make the tea. While she was busy outside, Rey Shuan very simply told the purpose of his visit. Fourth Master Li assented immediately and most willingly. "Eldest, you are a scholar and your thoughts are comprehensive," the old man said quietly. "The strictest search is at the city gates and the railway station. It is certainly not easy . to get out of the city. On the hands, the feet, and the bodies of military men are signs which can be recognized by the Japanese at a glance, and to be caught is to be beheaded. In a funeral they even tap the coffin­ sounding it-but those wearing mourning have not had much trouble. Leave it to me. There is a funeral tomorrow which I am conducting. Tell the two of them to leave with me at daybreak. There are mourning clothes in the funeral shops . I will rent two suits for them. Whether they should be among the mourners, or among those who carry the banners and insignia in the procession, I will decide when the time comes. What is best I will do." Fourth Mistress' water had not yet boiled when Rey Shuan took his leave. She was very sorry, and said, "The kindling was damp from the rain. It's all your fault, you Old Thing; you don't see to anything. You don't even bring in the kindling when it rains." Meantime Old Three was in his room thinking of many things and could not concentrate. He wished that he could jump over the city wall in one bold leap. Suddenly he saw himself in a little row­ boat with Meydee among the lotus in the North Sea Park. He 79

·

wanted to go immediately to see her and tell her that he was about to flee the city and become a "hero of the resistance." No, no, no. He knew that she would not appreciate his bravery and integrity. In the south house his mother coughed several times. Pity for his mother immediately calmed Old Three's mind. "Once I have left this gate I may never see her again." He wanted to go imme­ diately to see his mother and say the kindest softest words to her, but he did not have the courage. He had never before realized that the relation between the mother and son could be so deep and close. He had often said to his schoolmates, "A youth of the present generation is like a baby chick : as soon as born he can leave his mother and find food for himself." But now, although he had no regrets for his decision, he knew that he was not like a baby chick. He realized that there was a bond, forever indissoluble, between him and his mother. Rey Shuan came in softly and Old Three asked, "How is it, Eldest Brother?" "You and Sergeant Wang leave in the morning." The following day was unbearably long for Rey Shuan. Even the shadows seemed to stand still. At last it was four o'clock in the afternoon . He heard Fourth Mistress Li talking in a loud voice. Quickly he ran out of the compound. Fourth Master Li said in a quiet voice, "They got out of the city."

Chapter Twelve

HY, WHY, Eldest Brother, did you let Old Three go?" The W skin on Rey Feng's face was tight as a drum.

"He was determined to go. I could not stop him. And vigorous youth should go." "Eldest Brother, it is easy for you to say that. He was about to graduate, and after graduation he could get a job and help with the family expenses. How could you let the chicken-about to lay eggs-go away? Besides they will in a few days take a census, and we will have to report that we have someone outside, outside fighting." If the Second had scolded him because of anxiety for the safety of Old Three, Rey Shuan would not have been angry, but when the Second threw away brotherliness and talked only of material gain, Rey Shuan could not but be angry. He managed, however, to control himself. He was the head of the family and should have patience. With the city captured and the nation in danger why So

should he make trouble in the family. With great difficulty he forced a smile. "Old Second, you are right. I had not thought of that." "Now it is most important not to let any hint of this out," the Second said arrogantly. "Once this news got out our whole family would lose their lives. I said long ago that you spoiled Old Three but you would not listen to me. I think we had better live sepa­ rately. Then, if Old Three gets into trouble-that would be fine." Rey Shuan could no longer hold back his anger. His eyes became two slits and the flesh on his face tightened . His voice was still low but each word fell like a pebble in a mountain pool. In a low intense voice he said, "Second, get out!7' Rey Feng had not thought that Rey Shuan would make this move. His small face reddened until it looked like a polished cherry. He wanted to let his anger go and make a scene but one look at his brother's eyes made him control his temper. "Good, I'll go." The elder brother stopped him. "Wait, I still have words to say." His face was frighteningly pale. "In the past I tolerated you because I am the manager of the household. I did not think it suitable to quarrel with you . That was a mistake. You thought that I did not argue with you because you were right, and your faults became habit. You think a shrewd bargain is all that is worth while and that any sacrifice is meaningless. I should have corrected you long ago and I am sorry that I did not. Today I will tell you the truth. It was good that Old Three went away. It was right. If you consider yourself a man you will go also and do something more important than eating and drinking and dressing up. I cannot go because the two older generations are still with us, but I do not, because of this, excuse myself. I cannot force you to go. Think it over. Think of the greater and broader things ." His anger began to subside and his face regained its normal color. "Please forgive me that I lost my temper. You should know that the truth is not always pleasant to hear. Well-go! " The headmasters of the middle schools, learning that the war in Shanghai was going well and that the Japanese had not ap­ pointed anyone to take responsibility for the educational work in Peiping, decided to open the schools at once. Rey Shuan got a notice of a meeting at the school. The teachers did not all appear because some had already escaped from Peiping. The faces of all, as they talked of the escape of others, showed shame of themselves. Each had a reason for not leaving, but the more they talked of these reasons the more they felt shame. 81

The headmaster arrived. He was over fifty, very sincere and con­ scientious, an old hand at middle-school education. Everyone sat down and the meeting started. The headmaster stood up and looked at the wall on the other side of the room. For fully three minutes he could not find any words. Rey Shuan with his head bent low said, "Please, sir, sit down." The headmaster, like a small student caught in error, sat down slowly. The youngest teacher asked what everyone had wanted to ask but none had dared : "Master, if we continue to work here are we traitors?" All eyes were fixed on the headmaster. He rose stiffly, and rolling a pencil in his fingers, he cleared his throat several times before he could speak. "Teachers, as I see it, this war cannot be finished in a short time. According to what is right we should all leave Peiping, but middle school s are different from universities. Univer­ sities g�t their instructions directly from the Board of Education but we have to wait for instructions from the Commissioner of Education in Peiping. As there is no one in the Commissioner's office we must make our own decisions. If a university is instructed to move from Peiping, the students are able to travel to far places. But our students are young, and ninety-nine out of a hundred are from Peiping homes. We cannot take them away. I know that if we stay we will have trouble; yet I think we should open our school now before the J apanese have made any plans, so that the students will not be wasting their time staying at home. When the Japanese shall have made their plans we will do our best to keep the students out of the greatest dangers . My friends, those who can go away, please go. I will not hold you. Those who cannot leave-I beg you, live like widows who have been raped but continue to live for their children . Who knows whether we are traitors or not." Again he cleared his throat and let his hands fall on the table. "I have many other words to say but cannot say them. If you agree with me we will open school next Monday." There were tears in his eyes as he sat down very, very slowly. After a long silence someone said in a hushed voice, "I agree to opening the school ." " Is there any other opinion?" The headmaster wanted to stand up but could not. No one said anything. He waited awhile and then said, "Good. We will open the school and see what happens . Great changes will come. We can but do our best." Coming out from the school Rey Shuan felt oppressed as though he were sickening with a fever. He wanted to calm himself and think a way out clearly, but he was confused and disturbed and 82

could not grasp a starting point for thought. He was even more oppressed when he heard himself talking to himself. He used to pity those who walked along the streets talking to themselves­ those with something wrong in their heads-and now he was one of them. He wanted to go to the North Sea Park or Central Park for a walk, but he stopped himself and said, "Public parks are for people enjoying peace. You are not qualified to go ." He walked toward his home and said to himself, "The beaten dog puts his tail between his legs and runs home. There is no other way." He was stopped at the entrance to the Little Sheep Fold by a policeman. Rey Shuan said politely, "I live here." The policeman was also polite and said, "Wait a bit-they are making an arrest." "Making an arrest?" Rey Shuan was frightened . "Who? What is the charge?" "I do not know." The policeman smiled in apology. "I know only that I am to guard the entrance and not let anyone pass ." Rey Shuan asked, "The Japanese gendarmes?" The policeman nodded and then-seeing there was no one near -whispered, 'There is no word of pay this month and yet we come to help arrest our people. What fools we are! Who knows what our · Peiping will turn into! Take a walk and come back. You must not stand here." Rey Shuan walked away but as he walked he tried to guess, ''Who are they arresting?" The first person to come to mind was the poet, Mr. Chien. He told himself, "If it is really Mr. Chien, ahhh-" His legs felt weak. The second person he thought of was Old Three. Had he been caught? He perspired all over. The Japanese gendarmes were at that moment arresting Mr. Chien, the poet, who-except for a little pleasure-loving laziness­ had nothing against him. Both entrances to the Little Sheep Fold were guarded by policemen to stop all from passing in. Kuan the Morning Lotus led the way. He had no desire to stick out his neck and show his face but the Japanese insisted that he lead them. It almost seemed as if-since he was the one who had reported­ they would take him if they failed to make the arrest. He had not thought of such a turn of affairs and all he could now do was to stiffen his neck .a nd go forward. His heart beat fast and it was with great difficulty that he pretended to be calm. His eyes were like those of a fox surrounded by hounds . He looked in every direction, fearful that the neighbors would see him. He pulled his hat far down on his forehead, hoping they would not so easily recognize him. All in the Little Sheep Fold had closed their gates. Except 83

for the green caterpillars hanging from the old locust trees there was no living thing in sight, so there was a little peace in his heart. He thought that all were hiding in their rooms, but in fact the shed-builder, Master Liu, and some of the others were looking out through the crack between the halves of their gates and recog­ nized him. There was not a bit of color in Sergeant Pai's face. He walked behind Morning Lotus looking like one whose soul was lost. All in the Little Sheep Fold were his friends. He had never in the past been willing to arrest anyone and now he could not bear to see his friends arrested by the Japanese. He did not know Mr. Chien well because Mr. Chien seldom came outside his gate and never had dealings with the police, but he knew that Mr. Chien was a man a hundred-and-two-per-cent good. If everyone were like Mr. Chien the police would be able to spend all their time in meditation and follow the Way. When they reached the Chien family gate and he realized that they were about to arrest Mr. Chien, he would have liked to kill Morning Lotus with one crunch of his jaws, but there were four Japanese standing like iron posts behind him, and he had to suppress his anger. Ever since the fall of Peiping he had known that sometime he would have to be claws and teeth for the enemy and oppress his own people. He could not avoid this dis­ graceful duty unless he took -his uniform off at once. But he could not shed his uniform. Food and clothes for himself and his family had already decided for him that he must do this deed which had not the smell of humanity. They knocked for a while at the gate but there was no answer. One of the iron posts was about to kick the gate when it opened gently. He who opened the gate was Mr. Chien, looking as if he had just awakened from sleep. There were red creases on his face and he had stuck his feet into his shoes and wore them like slippers . His left hand was buttoning his coat. The first person he looked at was Morning Lotus, who quickly dropped his eyelids . The second person he looked at was Sergeant Pai but Sergeant Pai turned his head. The third glance showed him Morning Lotus giving a slight nod to the Japanese soldiers. Two thoughts leaped to his mind : if this were not because Sergeant Wang had got into trouble it was because of his second son. He realized immediately that it must be the latter, because Morning Lotus was in front of him and he remembered Kaodee's warning. Proudly and simply he asked, "What do you want?" It was as though these words were red-hot iron. Mr. Kuan bent his head and retreated a step as if to avoid the sparks. Sergeant 84

Pai also retreated. Two of the soldiers rushed forward as if going into battle. Mr. Chien's hands were on the frame of the gate, blocking the way. Again he said, "What do you want?" One of the soldiers hit Mr. Chien on the wrist and bringing his hand up, slapped him on the face. Blood flowed from the poet's mouth . The soldier walked into the gate. The poet grasped his collar and shouted, "What are you doing?" The soldier struggled to get away but Mr. Chien's hands grasped him as those of a drowning man grasp a stick, his grip locked. Sergeant Pai was afraid that this would make the old man suffer more and so came quickly for­ ward. He pushed up Mr. Chien's elbow so that his grip was loosened . Sergeant Pai then squeezed between them and separated the soldier from Mr. Chien, and the soldier's kick landed on Sergeant Pai. Sergeant Pai bore the pain and drew Mr. Chien for­ ward toward the courtyard, pretending to be busy trying to fight him. Mr. Chien said nothing more. One of the soldiers guarded the gate and the others entered the court. Sergeant Pai, drawing Mr. Chien with him, came in also. Sergeant Pai said in a whisper, "Do not be over-angered, Old Sir. A good Son of Han does not fight the inevitable." The ambition of Kuan the Morning Lotus was great but his courage was small. He dared neither to enter the gate nor to stand outside. He stepped into the entry and took out his cigarette case of silver. As he opened the case he remembered the soldier outside the gate and immediately stretched his arm and offered him a cigarette to buy his friendship. The enemy soldier looked at him and looked at the cigarette case, took the case, shut it and put it in his pocket. Mr. Kuan smiled wryly and imitating the Japanese accent in speaking Chinese said, "Good, good; big, big good ." The elder son of Mr. Chien was suffering from dysentery. He was thin and weak by nature and after a few days of illness he did not look like a human being. His long hair was on end, the color of his face was greenish, and holding up his trousers with both hands he was walking across the court to his room. As he walked he groaned. Seeing his father being pulled along by Sergeant Pai and seeing three enemy soldiers waddling across the courtyard, he forgot his illness and staggered toward his father. Sergeant Pai thought quickly. If the enemy planned to arrest Mr. Chien only, it would be bad business to add another. If young Mr. Chien tried to resist the Japanese he would also be arrested. Sergeant Pai grit-:­ ted his teeth and still keeping hold of Mr. Chien, he made a fist with his other hand. When young Mr. Chien came near, he gave 85

him a blow in the face. Young Mr. Chien fell to the , ground . Sergeant Pai shouted, "Opium sot, opium sot." He then pointed to the eldest son, and raising his fist with the thumb and little finger extended, as though it were a pipe, he put the thumb to his mouth and began to draw in his breath as though he were smok­ ing an opium pipe. He knew that the Japanese favored those who smoked opium because they hoped to weaken the nation. The enemy soldiers went into the north room to search. Sergeant Pai took this opportunity to explain to Mr. Chien . "Old Sir, you are not young. If you want to fight to the death, fight to the death-but your son should not also be arrested ." Mr. Chien nodded. His son lay on the ground and did not move . for a long time. He had fainted. Mr. Chien watched him with bent head and although he was unhappy there was comfort in his unhappiness. The death of his second son was now completely proved . His eldest son's suffering and his own he felt to be in­ evitable. There was nothing strange or imusual ab.o ut it. In times of peace he had flowers and shrubs, poetry, wine, and tea. In the time of his country's defeat he had sacrifice and death. He was content with what had come to him. He saw clearly that prison was before him-torture and death. He had no fear or anxiety but hoped only that his elder son would not be arrested so that the old wife and the daughter-in-law would have someone to care for them. He did not wish to say goodbye to his old wife. He knew that she would not understand. She had suffered poverty with him all her life and had never complained, and now that he was about to die she would perhaps see the value of his death. He had no hate for Morning Lotus. He felt that people in the world were like the Five Hundred Arhats-each had his own peculiar seat. He would die, and Morning Lotus would sell people and seek wealth. In the past, whenever he was moved, he would write a poem. But now he felt that his second son's sacrifice, the coming of Sergeant Wang who would rather commit suicide than sur­ render, and his own fate, were all good poems. They were poems even though written in prose. He need no longer seek poetry from rhythm and word harmony. Mrs. Chien was pushed out of the room by the enemy soldiers and nearly fell. Mr. Chien did not want to say anything to her but she ran quickly to him. "They are taking our things, go quickly and do something." Mr. Chien laughed. Sergeant Pai tugged at his arm . "Mr. Chien, don't laugh, don't laugh ." Now Mrs. Chien saw the blood on her husband's face and began to wipe it with her sleeve. "What hap86

pened?" When the old wife's sleeve touched his mouth he sud­ denly felt a pain and perspired all over. He took hold of his wife to steady himself and shut his eyes . Opening his eyes he said quietly, "I have not told you-our second son is already dead, and now they have come to arrest me. Do not let your heart be troubled, do not let your heart be troubled." Mrs. Chien felt that she was in a dream : what she saw and what she heard did not fit at the joints . There had not been a day, after the first shots at the Marco Polo Bridge, that she had not worried about her "baby," but her husband and the elder son always told her that he would soon be back. A few days ago, in the n ight, there had suddenly been a guest in the house who looked like a country­ man and also like a soldier. She had not dared to inquire nor had they told her who he was, and suddenly he was gone. She asked her husband later but he only smiled and told her nothing. Another evening she was certain that she heard someone moving in the courtyard and the voice of a woman . And the next day she asked and again had no explanation. What was the meaning of all these things? Today her husband's mouth was bleeding, the Japanese soldiers were in her rooms searching and looting, and now her husband said that her second son was no more. She wanted to weep, but surprise and confusion blocked her tears. She held her husband's arm and wanted to ask him everything in detail. Before she could open her mouth, the enemy soldiers had come out of the rooms . They threw a leather thong to Sergeant Pai. Mr. Chien said, "No need to bind me, no need to bind me. I will go with you ." Sergeant Pai picked up the thong and said in a whisper, "Let me bind it loosely, otherwise they will beat you again." Mrs. Chien became excited and shouted, "What are you doing? Where are you taking my old man? Let him loose." She held tight to her husband's arm. Sergeant Pai was worried for fear the soldiers would beat her. Just at that moment the elder son came to and called, "Mother." Mr. Chien whispered to his wife, "Look after the Elder. I am going but will soon return . Don't worry." He turned and loosened her grip. In his eyes were tears compounded of anger, of being wronged, of pride, and of courage. With his head held high he began to walk away. After a few steps he turned and looked at the flowers he had planted with his own hands. A hibiscus had just bloomed with great golden blossoms . Rey Shuan met Mr. Chien and the four Japanese soldiers walk­ ing south on the main street. The soldiers had not brought a truck as they usually did-and made Mr. Chien walk, probably ·

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to frighten people more. Mr. Chien was bareheaded, the shoe on his left foot flapped like a slipper, and his right foot was bare. His eyes were looking straight ahead and there was a half smile on his face. His hands were bound behind his back. Rey Shuan wanted to call out but Mr. Chien did not see him. Stupefied, Rey Shuan stood still, watching, watching, until he could see only a few shadows on the edge of the road moving slowly. Under the bright beautiful sunshine, above the head of Mr. Chien, a white light shimmered. Rey Shuan entered the Little Sheep Fold. All the gates were still shut except that of Fourth Master Li, and it was half open. Rey Shuan wanted to go to the Chien family, to see them and try to comfort them. Just as he got to the gate of the Chien family, Fourth Master Li-from inside his own gate-called Rey Shuan . Fourth Master Li pulled Rey Shuan inside his gate and said, "Don't go to the Chiens' now. In times like these relatives must not think of relatives and friends must not think of friends . Be careful ." Rey Shuan did not reply. He stood awhile and then walked out. By the time he reached home his head was aching as though it would split. When Peiping fell the people of the Little Sheep Fold had been confused and depressed; when they heard of the battle in Shang­ hai they had been excited and hopeful; but not until this day had they seen what the enemy looked like, nor imagined what kinds of suffering they would be given to bear. Today they smelled blood. The beating and arrest of Mr. Chien made them know the terror of the enemy. Their ideas about the little Japanese changed. These little Japanese had come not only to occupy the city, they had come to take the lives of the people. The people of the Little Sheep Fold looked out of the corners of their eyes at the Kuan family gate, knowing they must be careful. Even the term "little Japanese" must not be used because' there were among the neigh­ bors those who wished to be "running dogs" for the Japanese. Kuan the Morning Lotus shut his gate tight and his thoughts tumbled continuously in his mind. After the sun set he was even more afraid, fearing that someone from the Chien family would come for vengeance. He dared not speak openly but hinted that there should be someone to watch the house through the night. Big Red Pepper was very much pleased and announced to all, "Good, now we have finished the first stage of the job, and even if we should want to retreat we could not. We must go forward with all our strength ." When she had made this clear she began to issue orders-more than ten every five minutes-until the feet 88

of the three servants scarcely touched the ground. First she wanted win e to drink to her husband's success. Then she sent invitations to frie nds to come and play mah-jongg. Then she had to change her clothes to go out and make inquiries about Mr. Chien. Then the clothes to which she had changed must be taken off. And then she ordered the servants to prepare quickly for her the "im­ po rted" tapioca pudding. She became angry when she saw that Morning Lotus was afraid. "You coward, you do not know good from bad . You want to eat but are afraid of being scalded. What kind of a Thing are you. How difficult it has been to find a road-a way to preferment­ and now you are afraid. Is Old Chien your father that you should be afraid that he will be beaten to death?" Morning Lotus compelled himself to be sprightly and said, "A real man-one who dares to act-can also take the consequences. I am not afraid." Big Red Pepper's words became softer. "That's right." In the western court Mrs. Chien was weeping loudly. Even Big Red Pepper did not dare to let her voice be heard.

Chapter Thirteen "'HE MOST BEAUTIFUL TIME in Peiping is just before and just \/ after the Mid-autumn Festival. The days are neither too cold nor too hot, and the days and nights are equally long. There are no dust storms from Mongolia as in the winter ahd no hail storms as in the summer. The sky is so high, and so blue, and so bright, that it seems to say smilingly to the people of Peiping, "In these days nature does not threaten or cause destruction." The Western Hills and the Northern Mountains take on a deeper blue and every evening they are draped in a multicolored sunset robe. In peaceful years, the fruits spread out by the sidewalk peddlers; or on the fruit stalls, were of so many kinds that only the people of Peiping could name them all. Every variety and size of grape, every kind and shape of pear, every variety of apple; gave people plenty to see, to smell, to eat. But there were even more : those beautiful, fragrant, sweet, crisp, little pears; the crab apples as big as harvest apples; and for fragrance only, the little apple-sized quinces; and the red Peiping apple, covered with little gold stars, which decorated the rooms and added fragrance to the air. There was also the fruit used in the worship of the moon, pillow-shaped watermelons decorated with strips of gold paper and displayed 89

together with red and yellow cockscomb blossoms . All this made people not only wish to satisfy their desires but made it difficult to decide which fragrance was best, which color most pleasing, and gave to all a slight feeling of intoxication. These fruits, whether in the stalls or on the stands, were ar­ ranged in a most decorative manner. The bloom on the ·fruit had not been taken off and all the fruit was piled in fragrant designs making people feel that the peddlers were all artists who could make beautiful things more beautiful. The peddlers also sang. With great earnest effort they spread and arranged the fruit, and then-with crisp clear voices-they sang to them tuneful praises . The melodies quivering in the sweet-smelling air harmonized with the static beauty of the apples and grapes, and made the feet of the people go slowly; listening to, looking at, and smelling the beauty of Peiping's autumn. During this same time, the Lianghsiang chestnuts, big and fat, were roasted in fine sand and molasses, in iron basins over the little sidewalk furnaces, and filled the air with their purigent aroma. Even the smoke of the wood fire under the furnaces was fragrant. Besides the great earthen jars outside the wine shops, peddlers cooked finely sliced mutton mixed with snow-white onions. A cup of wine, four ounces of meat-and with twenty or thirty cents, one had his fill. Fresh water crabs, fat from the grain harvest, were carried in baskets of matting by the peddlers to all the streets where people lived. Those who knew how to enjoy themselves could go to the Cheng Yang restaurant and with the small wooden hammers, lightly crack the hairy legs of the crabs. During this same time, between the fragrant and decorative fruit stands were many stands selling "Rabbit Kings," spread row on row, with white shiny faces and many-colored bodies, carrying small imperial umbrellas and flags of yellow paper on their backs. Some were large and some were small but all alike were finely constructed. Some rode tigers and some were on lotus blossoms. Some carried barbers' kits and some carried tiny red boxes on their backs . These minor masterpieces of sculpture planted the seeds of beauty in thousands and tens of thousands of children. During this same time, from Fengtai where flowers are crops, came processions of men carrying loads swinging from the ends of poles, basket after basket of chrysanthemums. The gardeners in the public parks and the amateur chrysanthemum growers all made preparations for the chrysanthemum show. The varieties 90

of chrysanthemums in Peiping are so many that perhaps they are more than in any other place in the world. During this same time, the young students, beautiful as spring flowers, came from Tsing Hua University, from Haitien where the white lotus wine is made, from the north, the east, the west, and the south city, to the North Sea Park to row in the boats . The lotus petals had already fallen but the leaves still gave the boys and girls some fragrance to carry away. Their bodies would be scented with this perfume. During this same time, the overcultivated people of Peiping, as they neared the Eighth Moon, were preparing seasonal gifts for their relatives and friends. The shops on the streets with their wine jars of many shapes, moon cakes with fillings of different flavors, were decorated as freshly and beautifully as brides. Peiping's autumn was a paradise on earth and probably more enchanting than paradise. Old Man Chi's birthday was on the thirteenth of the Eighth Moon, two days before the full moon, the day of the Mid-autumn Festival. Although he said nothing, in his heart he was hoping that this day would be as delightful and well celebrated as in the past. His birthday celebration was followed every year so closely by the festival that after he was sixty years old, the celebration of the two almost became his religion. On his birthday he wore his favorite clothes. He prepared beforehand many small red paper packets with the newest small silver coins inside, to give the chil­ dren who came to kowtow before him. He would most kindly ask his relatives and friends about their welfare, and then, ac­ cording to his own experience of life, give them one by one en­ couragement and advice. He would see most carefully that each guest had enough to eat and, moreover, pick out what he did not like among the fruits, melons, and cakes, to give the children to take away. He was the Old Star of Longevity : he must be fully, therefore, what the symbol of longevity should be-kind, polite, and generous-so that the guests would be fully satisfied with him and not complain secretly and so shorten the years of his life. When the birthday was over he would be tired, and although still concerned with the enjoyment of the Moon Festival, he con­ sidered that as the tail end of the birthday celebrations, and whether or not they should observe the festival was not too im­ portant. The birthday was his own; the festival belonged to every­ one. Since the whole family-people and property-had been cre­ ated by him, he felt that he was justified in this amount of selfishness. 91

This year, tens of days before the birthday, he had already begun not to sleep well at night. He knew that with the Japanese occupation he could not expect to celebrate his birthday and the festival as well as in the past, but he was not willing to give up hope easily. Had not Mr. Chien been arrested by the Japanese? Well-who knew how many days he had to live? Why not cele­ brate the birthday happily? One could never tell-perhaps this might be the last one. Moreover, he knew definitely that he had never himself offended the Japanese, and no matter how unrea­ sonable they might be, would they not let a quiet old man cele­ brate his seventy-fifth birthday? Old Man Chi decided to go on the street and look around. Shutting his eyes he could see clearly what the streets should look like but he wanted to see what they did look like. If the streets were as busy as in the past he would undoubtedly be able to enjoy his birthday happily once more, and the armed occupation by the Japanese would not be too uncomfortable. When he reached the main street he did not smell the fragrance of the fruit. He did not meet people carrying baskets of fruit on their arms or slung from poles on their shoulders, or those carry· ing gifts to their friends. He did not see many moon cakes on display. He usually walked very slowly; now it was as though he could not walk at all . He could see that there was no fruit in the city because it was not peaceful in the country. He knew also that the lack of moon cakes was a sign that the people would not cele­ brate the festival. Suddenly he felt a chill all over his body. If the Japanese had not interfered with his way of living he would never have thought of hating them. He now understood that the Japa­ nese would not let him celebrate his birthday and they would not let him celebrate the festival. His little eyes were not used to tears but now he could not see clearly what was in front of him . He borrowed a seat from a sour­ bean soup stand on the sidewalk and sat down. He gradually became calmer. Slowly he started back home. On the way he saw two stands selling Rabbit Kings . In past years, holding the hand of his son or grandson or great-grandson, he would stand for hours in front of such a display, to appreciate, criticize, to select, and buy one or two of these rabbits of such small price and good workman­ ship, but today he was alone as he walked in front of the stands and he felt lonely. Today these two stands were isolated. The fact that there were no fruit stalls on either side made him feel strange and a little frightened.

He thought he would take a couple of Rabbit Kings to Little Precious and Niu Niu . Then very quickly he changed his mind. In times like these to buy toys for children? But before he had quite made up his mind, the peddler-a thin man of about thirty -called to him with a smile, "Old Sir, give me some patronage." From the smile on the peddler's face and the geniality in his voice Old Man Chi knew that even if he did not buy anything but only chatted awhile, the peddler would be pleased. Old Man Chi, how­ ever, did not slow his steps. The thin man stepped forward . "Buy something please-a good bargain ." Hearing the word "bargain," the old man stopped, almost by instinct. The smile of the peddler broadened. He sighed and seemed to say, "Now I have caught a god of wealth." "Old Sir, sit awhile and rest your legs." The thin man pulled a bench over and wiped it with his sleeves. "I tell you, Old Sir, they have been displayed three days and I have entered nothing in my account book. What can one do at a time like this? My stock is the work of a whole summer. Can I do other than bring them out for sale? But-" Seeing that the old man had sat down he came quickly to the point. "Well, Old Sir, take two of the big ones. I guarantee that I am selling at less than cost. Which kind do you like? This pair-one riding a black tiger and one on a yellow tiger-is not bad." "Buying for two children, I must buy two alike to avoid quar­ rels." The old man felt that he had been captured by the thin peddler and had to push him away with his words . "There are many of the same pattern-you choose." The thin man would certainly not let the old man escape. "Do you want two with black tigers or would you like a pair sitting on lotus blossoms? The price is the same. I sell cheaply." " I don't want such large ones . The children are small . If the toys are too large they are easily broken." The old man again pushed the peddler away and was more comfortable. "Then pick a couple of small ones." The thin man was de­ termined to carry this business to a successful conclusion. "Big or little, there is not much difference in the prices . The small ones take more work. They take less material but not any less work or time." Very gently he took up a pair of Rabbit Kings not more than three inches tall, held them in his hand, and looked at them closely. "Look at them, see how fine is the workmanship." The little rabbits were really beautifully made. Even an old man almost seventy-five could not help liking them as much as the children would. There was no red on their cheeks but their 93

tiny mouths were fine red lines. They had long thin white ears with a hint of pink inside. The upper parts of their bodies were dressed in coats of deep red and from the waist down were jade green leaves and pink lotus blossoms. Each fold of the leaves and each petal of the flowers was clear and beautiful. It was as though the green leaves and pink flowers were moving. Old Man Chi's little eyes became bright but he knew how to control himself. He would not let these little clay figures tempt him to throw away his money : he could rein his horses back at the edge of the precipice. This ability was the main reason he had been able to establish his family and his business. "I think I had better pick a couple that are neither too big nor too smaII ." He saw that the middle-sized ones were not dignified like the big ones nor as dainty and aIIuring as the little ones, and of course those considerations would make the price more reasonable. The thin man was disappointed but according to his Peiping peddler's courtesy, he hid his disappointment in his heart and did not let it show. "Pick out the ones you like. After aII, they are but toys and do not matter much." The old man used up twenty-five minutes to pick a pair and almost another twenty-five minutes to bargain over the price. After the price was fixed he sat down again because until the inevitable moment arrived he did not like to bring out his money. As long as the money was in his belt it was as safe as if it were in his own room with a pet dog tied there. The thin man was in no hurry. He liked having an old gentle­ man of this kind sitting by his stand-a free advertisement; and at the same time, the business being settled, they could become friends . He talked to the old man from his heart. "If conditions go on this way my little handicraft will be rooted up." "Why?" The hand that was about to reach for his purse was again puIIed back. "Think-if I can't seII my wares this year wiII I be fool enough · to make any next year? Of course not. If these conditions should continue several years wiII not this little craft be lost?" "How many years?" The old man's heart chiIIed. "Has not Manchuria been lost for many years?" "Heng !" The old man's hands shook a little. Quickly he puIIed out his money and handed it to the thin man. "Heng! Many years ! I wiII be in the ground." When he had finished talking he nearly forgot to take the pair · of rabbits. The thin man handed them to him very carefuIIy. Many years ! As he walked he muttered to himself. In his mind 94

he could see his coffin carried out of a city gate that was guarded by Japanese soldiers and he could see his descendants living in a Peiping without Rabbit Kings. With the destruction of the Rabbit King industry would go many delightful special products of Peiping-withered at the roots. He had reached the Little Sheep Fold without realizing it. Like an old horse, even with his eyes shut he could find his home. When he reached the Chien family gate he remembered Mr. Chien and felt that to be carrying two Rabbit Kings was most unsuitable. He did not know whether his best friend was living or dead and yet he had the heart to buy toys for his great-grandchildren. The gate of the Chien family home opened. The old man walked forward quickly. He did not want anyone in the Chien family to see him carrying the Rabbit Kings. After a few steps he was remorseful and stood still and looked back shamefacedly. Mrs. Chien, a short woman more gentle than a butterfly, stood outside the gate, and under her arm was a small blue cloth bundle. Her deep-set eyes looked at the big locust trees and then at her blue cloth parcel as though she had lost her way outside her home. Old Man Chi turned. Mrs . Chien lifted her long gown a bit with her hand-it was a very old, very long gown, coming down to her ankles. She also wanted to turn away. The old man went over quickly and said, "Mrs. Chien." She stood still and looked blankly at him. The muscles and flesh of her face seemed to have forgotten how to form any expression. Only her eyelids slowly rose and fell. The old man finally managed to say, "How is Mr. Chien?" Mrs. Chien bent her head slightly but did not weep. Her tears seemed to have been used up. She turned quickly and went into her gate and the old man followed her. In the gate passage she found her voice-a hoarse voice : "I have asked everywhere but can't find out where he is . Uncle Chi, I was one who never crossed this threshold year in and year out; now I have searched the whole city." "How is your elder son?" "Nearly, nearly-finished. His father arrested, his brother dead, he himself ill. For three days he has eaten nothing and not said a word . Uncle Chi, if the Japanese had used guns to level the walls of Peiping it would have been better than to destroy people in this way." When she said this she lifted her head and her eyes were balls of anger. As if troubled by smoke she did not stop blinking. The old man stood still. He wanted very much to help. If these 95

troubles had fallen on someone else he would have said simply, "This is your fate," but he could not say this to Mrs. Chien for he knew that all in the Chien family were good people. By right they should not suffer in this way. "Where were you going just now?" She looked at the blue cloth parcel and her face twisted. Then deciding to overcome her shame she again lifted her head. "I was going to the pawnshop." And with great resolution she forced a tiny smile to her face. It was as though a tiny bit of sunshine had pushed itself from behind a black cloud. "Um, in the past, even when the cash was in my hands, I was afraid to buy things. Now I dare to go even to the pawnshops." Old Man Chi saw an opportunity to help. " I-I can lend you a few dollars." "No, Uncle Chi." She said it decisively and there was a sharp­ ness in her hoarse voice. "What is a few dollars between us?" "No. My husband never asked help in his life. I cannot while he is not at home-" She did not finish the sentence. She wanted to be strong but she knew how great was the price of steadfast­ ness. She changed the subject suddenly. "Uncle Chi, what do you think? Can my husband still be alive? Will he come back?" The old man's hands were shaking. He could not answer. After thinking a long time he said, "Mrs. Chien, should we not ask the help of Kuan the Morning Lotus?" "He? Ask help of him?" Her eyebrows lifted. ''I'll do it, I'll go," the old man said quickly. "You know I also dislike that person." "You need not go. He is not a human being." In all her life Mrs. Chien had been unable to say an evil word. "Not a human being" encompassed all the hate she had and was all the cursing she could do. "Ahhh, I must go to the pawnshop." And she went quickly out the gate. Old Man Chi did not understand her, did not understand how a person so quiet, ceremonious, and shy, could have become so decisive and courageous. He followed her out. of the gate. Outside the gate he wanted to stop her but she had already turned the corner. She had forgotten to close the gate-the gate that had always been closed so tightly. The old man sighed. He wanted to throw the two Rabbit Kings he had in his hands against the locust trees but he did not do so. He was exhausted by the time he reached home. He gave the toys to the Mother of Little Precious and without a word went 96

into his own room. The Mother of Little Precious, intent on the clay toys, did not notice the old man's expression. She said, "Yo, there are still those who sell Rabbit Kings!" When she had spoken she was sorry, for her words could seem to carry a criticism of the old man. She felt awkward and to cover her embarrassment she shouted for Little Pr�cious. "Come quickly, Great-grandfather has brought you a Rabbit King." Little Precious and Niu Niu shot over like arrows. Little Precious held out his hand and took a Rabbit King. Niu Niu put her finger on her lips and looking at the Rabbit King drew in her breath . Her face flushed. "And do you not go in to thank your Great-grandfather?" their mother said loudly. Niu Niu hugging her Rabbit King with both arms went with her brother into the old man's room. "Great-grandfather"-Little Precious was smiling so much that his eyebrows had left their regular place-"you bought these for us?" Niu Niu also wanted to express her thanks but could not find the words. "Go and play," the old man said with his eyes half-closed. "Play with them this year. Next year-" "What about next year? Next year you'll buy even bigger ones?" Little Precious asked. "Big, big ones?" said Niu Niu, copying her brother. Old Man Chi closed his eyes tightly and said nothing. On the thirteenth of the Eighth Moon, the Mother of Little Precious and Rey Shuan prepared a celebration for his seventy4 fifth birthday but it was not as joyful as in other years.

Chapter Fourteen

'A J v' YJ-

greeted Rey Feng and his wife with great warmth . Morning Lotus held Rey Feng's hand for about three minutes and was still unwilling to let it go. Big Red Pepper -her new permanent making her hair stick out around her head like that of the little demons in the temples-embraced Mrs . Rey Feng so violently that her hair shook. Ever since the arrest of Mr. Chien the people of the Little Sheep Fold had shown only the whites of their eyes to the Kuan family. The visit of Rey Feng and his wife made Big Red Pepper think that the "public opin­ ion" of the Little Sheep Fold had changed, for the Chi famliy R. AND MRS . KUAN

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were the oldest residents and should therefore be representative of them all. The little present Rey Feng had brought was nothing much but Big Red Pepper received it with great consideration. It was a symbol that all in the Little Sheep Fold still respected her-respected her as they would the Empress Dowager. Rey Feng and his wife felt very much at home with the Kuans. What they heard, what they saw, and what they felt in this house­ hold was exactly what they wanted to hear, to see, and to feel. Big Red Pepper made coffee for them with her own hands­ coffee from the English Palace. With her own hands she cut a newly invented moon cake from a big hotel in the east city. As he drank the coffee Rey Feng seemed gradually to become in­ toxicated. Mr. Kuan's most inconsequential statements seemed to reach Rey Feng's deepest soul. Mr. Kuan's gestures and deport­ ment made Rey Feng admire and envy him. His little dry face flushed. His eyes-when not stealing glances at Peach Blossom and Meydee-were closed as though hot wine had reached the very innermost parts of him, and he was dizzy from intoxication. Even Mrs. Rey Feng's indolent fat face was alert and her fat body smartly erect, so that suddenly she had a neck and was an inch taller. Talking and laughing she even told them her "milk name" which only her own family should know. Big Red Pepper suggested, "Let's play a few rounds of mah· jongg." Rey Feng did not have much money with him but felt he must agree. This was the Mid-autumn Festival when it was fitting to play mah-jongg. If he refused to play it would be spoiling the Kuan family pattern. Mrs . Rey Feng quickly agreed, saying, "The two of us will play one hand. I'll play first." And as she was say­ ing this she touched the gold rings on her fingers as a hint to her husband that having the gold rings they would not lose face through being unable to pay their debts should they lose. Rey Feng admired his wife's foresight but was not happy about letting her play first. His little dry face stiffened. At this moment Big Red Pepper asked Morning Lotus, "Will you play?" "Well-you ladies play. We men will serve you tea." Morning Lotus' respect to women was nearly that of an educated American. Big Red Pepper gave an order. Male and female servants came flying. In the flick of an eye, the mah-jongg table was ready. The motions of the servants were as quick and accurate as those of a mechanized army. Peach Blossom yielded to Meydee with a show of good man98

ners, but in fact she was afraid that they would get into a quarrel if she played with Big Red Pepper. Kaodee, Meydee, Mrs. Rey Feng, and Big Red Pepper sat down . Morning Lotus talked with Rey Feng and they did not even look at the table where the women were playing. "Playing mah­ jongg and drinking," he said to the guest, "are not to be forced. To force one to play mah-jongg is as unreasonable as to pour wine down one's throat by holding his ear. I never seek much drink and I never push myself into games of mah-jongg, and therefore I never force others to play. I believe that my attitude is the most proper for social occasions." Rey Feng nodded continuously. At the same time he covertly watched Big Red Pepper. She was like a lioness. Her right eye took care of her own tiles. Her left eye watched the expressions on the faces of the other players and the tiles they set down. Then both eyes together swept the whole table. She glanced at the guest sitting at a distance and gave him a slight smile. In her smile was dignity and cunning. Picking a tile and throwing one seemed not to be done with movements of her arms and fingers. The tile seemed to be drawn by the magnetism of her flesh; and the thrown tile seemed to burst from her hand, her wrist, her elbow, and even her breast. The sharp clash of the thrown tile unnerved the other players. Purposefully she confused them all. Rey Feng looked at his wife. Sitting beside this lioness, she had already changed into a pitiable fat little lamb. Her left hand was on the table tightly holding two tiles as if afraid that they might slip away. Her right hand was busily drawing in tiles and setting them up. Before her turn she had stretched out her hand, and when she found that she was too early, she quickly withdrew her hand, and her sleeve knocked down the whole little bamboo wall . Rey Feng forced himself to keep the conversation with Morning Lotus going but he was very apprehensive for the gold rings on his wife's fingers. Big Red Pepper had won three . consecutive games when sud­ denly the two women in the Chien compound began to weep. She wished to continue the game but could not control her per­ spiration, and her playing became slower and slower. Kaodee's and Meydee's hands shook. Big Red Pepper played a wrong tile and Mrs . Rey Feng won a very big round. Morning Lotus, seeing that Mrs . Rey Feng had won a round, thought to clap his hands in congratulation but before he could get his hands together he discovered that the palms were covered with cold sweat. 99

"Father," Kaodee said, "play in my place." "All right, all right." He had just sat down when the weeping in the Chien court became a torrent. Big Red Pepper slammed a tile on the table and said angrily, "This is impossible. Those two stinking women, what are they howling about . on a festival day?" "Never mind." Morning Lotus picked up a tile with two fingers and glancing at his wife said, "They weep theirs, and we play ours. " "How many rounds left?" Rey Feng came over to the table. "Shall we not rest?" His wife said abruptly, "My game has just begun to change to better luck. If you want to go home, go. There is no one keeping you." "Of course we'll play. We'll play at least sixteen rounds. That is the rule." Mr. Kuan lighted a cigarette and smartly let two small smoke dragons come from his nostrils. Rey Feng went back to his seat. He felt that his wife did not understand the situation but he dared not speak. He knew that the harmony between the husband and wife depended on the ability of the husband to smile and accept the lack of under­ standing. "If I had the power-peng, I have a pair!" Big Red Pepper took her pair and continued, "I would take women like those and kill them to relieve my anger. A nuisance to have neighbors like that. They don't even let you play out a few small rounds of mah· jongg in peace." The door of the room was open into the court. Big Red Pepper saw Peach Blossom and Kaodee going out of the compound gate. "Heil Where are you two going?" Peach Blossom wanted to hurry and get out, but Kaodee was not afraid of her mother, and challenged her purposely. "We are going to see the western neighbors." "Nonsense." Big Red Pepper half stood up to give the order to Morning Lotus . "Stop them." Morning Lotus, not waiting to apologize to Mrs . Rey Feng, ran out with a tile in his hand. When he reached the courtyard, the two had already gone, and Morning Lotus returned to the room. Big Red Pepper said to him angrily, "You are a useless Thing. You could not even stop those two. You married a con­ cubine, you got a daughter, but you cannot control them." Morning Lotus, toying with the tile in his hand, smiled and 1 00

s aid, "The concubine I married, that is true. The daughter, how� ever, was made by both of us. I cannot take the whole responsi­ bility." There was no way to continue the game. Mrs. Rey Feng's fat face went from red to purple like an over-ripe egg plant. She had a good hand again but Morning Lotus had already left the table. Rey Feng went to her quickly to comfort her. "Someone has died, probably, in the Chien family. If the old fellow has not been shot by the Japanese, the illness of the older son is probably worse. Let's go home. In our court we will not hear the weeping so plainly." Mrs. Rey Feng picked up her little leather bag with one hand, and with the other pushed over the "good hand" and went angrily out. "Don't go." Morning Lotus' words urged them to stay but he stepped aside out of their way. Big Red Pepper thought about keeping them but did not try, and said only, "Don't go. I'm sorry indeed. Come again some other day." As soon as Rey Feng and his wife had left, Big Red Pepper faced Morning Lotus and let go a broadside. "What happened to you? Don't you know enough to go with guests to the gate? You are afraid to go out of the gate. Are the women in the western court tigresses who can eat you in a mouthful apiece?" Morning Lotus did not want to talk back. He said in. a small voice to himself, "This is perhaps a small retribution." Big Red Pepper heard and with her arms akimbo, said quickly, "What? Fart your mother's ass's wind." "All farts stink, why should it be a donkey's?" Morning Lotus felt that he had made the smart rejoinder and his heart was lighter. Sun the Seventh, Fourth Master Li, Mistress Li, and Rey Shuan came one after the other into the Chien home. The situation was very clear : the eldest son of the Chien family had died. His mother and his wife wept. Sun the Seventh stamped his feet and said, "What kind of a world is this-the old one arrested and the young one dead!" He wanted to curse but dared not. Rey Shuan was standing behind Fourth Master Li . Sorrow, anger, impatience got nothing done. Old Man Chien was his friend, and the elder son had been his own schoolmate, but he 101

decided that he would keep calm and take charge of affairs for Mrs. Chien. The elder son of . the Chien family was still in his ordinary clothes, a worn coat and trousers. He lay on the kang as though sleeping. There was no trace of pain or look of illness on his thin face. Rey Shuan wanted to go over and take the thin, pale hand of his old schoolmate but he did not go over. He knew that he who did not resist the enemy before his death could only tamely shut his eyes . Ninety-nine out of a hundred people of Peiping had not resisted and he himself was one of them. There could . come a day like this for him also and his eyes shut in this way. Although he had intended not to weep, Rey Shuan wept both for his dead friend and for the shame of conquered Peiping. Fourth Mistress Li held the hands of the two women. Mrs. Chien and her daughter-in-law had already wept themselves into a stupor. They could not draw their breath; they seemed to suf· focate. Fourth Mistress pounded their backs gently, and slowly they were able to breathe again. Fourth Master Li, with unshed tears in his eyes, stood and waited. His age and his experience gave him the patience to wait. He waited while they fainted and were revived several times before he said in a loud voice, "You cannot bring the dead back by weeping. Stop weeping, both of you. We must make arrange· men ts. We cannot leave the dead in the house until he stinks." Sun the Seventh could not bare to watch any longer and went into the courtyard. The red and yellow cockscombs blossomed luxuriantly. He felt like going over and pulling them up, to relieve his anger. "The human beings have died and you still bloom gaily. His mother's--! " Rey Shuan stopped weeping and said gently, "Aunt Chien, Aunt Chien." He wanted to say some comforting words but for one in a conquered country to try to comfort another was like two oxen in the slaughterhouse moaning to each other. Mrs. Chien's eyes were open and staring straight ahead. Her hands and feet were icy cold. Except that her heart was still beating there was no movement anywhere in her body. The young Mrs . Chien still gasped. Fourth Mistress held her hand, blinking her two eyes that were red from weeping, and comforted her. "Good girl. Good girl. Think beyond this. If you should die who would look after your mother-in-law?" The younger Mrs. Chien lifted her head and with great effort stopped weeping. Suddenly she knelt down and kowtowed once 1 02

to the company. She was announcing ceremonially the death of her husband. The tears of Fourth Mistress flowed afresh, "Rise, child of a bitter life." But the young woman could not get up. Her hands and feet trembled violently and she collapsed on the floo r. At this moment, Mrs. Chien foamed from her mouth and groaned. "Let your thoughts go further, Mrs. Chien," said Fourth Master Li. "With all these people the affairs will be quickly managed." Mrs. Chien, as if awakening from a dream, looked at all the people and nodded her head. Peach Blossom and Kaodee had already stood for a long time in the gate passage. When the weeping ceased they walked for­ ward tentatively. Sun the Seventh saw them and quickly went to meet them and see who they were. When he was close enough to see clearly, the tendons on his neck stood out. He had been wanting to make a scene and now he found a suitable reason for one. "Young ladies, there is no opera being performed here. There is no monkey and trained-dog show playin g here. There is nothing to interest you, get out." Peach Blossom said, "Mr. Sun, you are also here helping. Is there anything I can do?" Sun the Seventh had heard from Little Tsui that Peach Blos­ som was not a bad sort. He had made a mistake and got the situation snarled. Peach Blossom was forced to take the initiative. She went into the room and brought Fourth Master Li out into the courtyard. "Fourth Master," Peach Blossom said in a low warm voice, "I know that all in this neighborhood hate our family, but Kaodee and I are not to blame. We two have not done anything to hurt others . Kaodee and I wanted to tell Mrs. Chien this but she has wept so bitterly, we cannot talk with her. I beg you, sir, speak for us." Fourth Master did not dare to believe her words. When they first came in he had thought they were spies from the Kuan family, but now hearing the sincerity in Peach Blossom's words he felt that he must have been overly suspicious. "Fourth Master," Kaodee said with feeling, "is not Mrs. Chien very poor?" Fourth Master Li looked down on Kaodee even more than on Peach Blossom. He replied harshly, "What is there to poverty? The Chien family has had their root broken and their hope for the future taken away. If you two have nothing else to do, please go away." 103

Peach Blossom said quickly, "Fourth Master, Kaodee and I have

a trifling gift." She offered him the small paper parcel she held

in her hand. The paper had already wrinkled from the sweat of her palms. "You need not tell the Chien family or anyone else. Use it any way you wish." Fourth Master Li's heart warmed a bit. He took the little paper parcel. He knew that the Chien family was very poor and a funeral cost money. To show his good faith he opened the little parcel before the two women. · Inside was one of Peach Blossom's little gold rings and twenty-five dollars in biIIs from Kaodee. "I wiII keep these for you. If they are not needed I will return them. If they are used, I will give you a clear account." Peach Blossom and Kaodee looked happier and felt that they had done something worth while. After they had gone, Fourth Master Li called Rey Shuan into the courtyard and consulted with him. "We should hurry up and make the arrangements. The clothes have not been changed. If we continue to delay this way when will we carry him out? At a time like this things must be done even more quickly." Rey Shuan nodded several times . "I think we need not buy spe­ cial burial clothes. He can wear whatever there is in the house. At a time like this we should not worry about form. Let's buy a strong coffin, engage sixteen carriers, and take him out as soon as we can. What do you think?" Fourth Master Li grasped the swelling on his neck and said, "I think that's the way. And we had better engage five Buddhist monks to read the sutras. We can save in other things but we must spend on this." "Fourth Master," Rey Shuan said, "if we try to discuss this now with Mrs. Chien, I am sure we will get nowhere. She has wept herself into a stupor. I'll go home and get the Mother of Little Precious and ask her to talk with Mrs. Chien." ' When Rey Shuan reached home, Old Man Chi called him. Rey Shuan knew that if he told of the death it would make the old man unhappy, but there was no way to avoid telling him, be­ cause he would learn anyway. Although the fall of Peiping had made Old Man Chi uneasy, he had his own ways of meeting that; but the arrest of Mr. Chien, his own birthday not properly celebrated, and now the death of young Mr. Chien on the day of the festival, coming one after the other, were like poisoned arrows shot into his heart. Rey Feng listened stealthily outside the window in order to 1 04

report the words of his grandfather and brother to the Kuan family. He was determined to get the favor of Morning Lotus and Big Red Pepper so that he would have a bright future. But even if the Kuan family did not help him to any position, to go there often would still be a good bargain. Rey Shuan came out of his grandfather's room and the two brothers met face to face. Rey Feng, seeing that his brother's eyes were red, guessed that his brother must be in sympathy with Mrs. Chien. He called his brother to stand under the date tree. The date tree is not a handsome tree. It drops its leaves early, and be­ comes as ugly as a woman who, not beautiful naturally, becomes bald. At the very top there were still a few red dates which had not been dropped by Little Precious' brickbats and these took away from the ugliness of the tree. Rey Feng said, "Eldest Brother, you should not help the Chien family. If the Japanese should see you always at the Chien home, there might come serious trouble. If you will not listen to me, I think we should divide the property and live separately. I do not want to be involved." Suddenly Rey Shuan was angry and his face flushed . "vVhat do you want? Do you want to divide the property? Roll-get out at once!" Mrs. Rey Feng, like a steam roller made of flesh and blood, came out of their room . "Rey Feng, come in. Don't we hasten to pack when we are told to roll? Do we wait for them to kick us out?" Rey Feng left Rey Shuan and went like an arrow to his wife. Old Man Chi called from his room, "Rey Shuan, Rey Shuan." Then not waiting for Rey Shuan to answer he delivered a lecture. "You mustn't do that. There's no news from Little Three-how can you drive out the Second? It's the Mid-autumn Festival on which there are reunions in every family. Why should we alone talk of dividing the house. If you really want to divide the house and divide the property, wait until I am dead. How many more days have I to live? Can you not wait?" Rey Shuan did not answer his grandfather. With his head hanging he went out of the courtyard. Outside the gate he met Yun Mei. Her eyes were red. "Go quickly," she said to him, "Mrs. Chien has stopped weeping. Sun the Seventh has gone to tell her relatives and those of young Mrs . Chien . Go quickly and make the arrangements with Fourth Master." Rey Shuan' s anger had not diminished but he determined to go 1 05

and help the Chien family. Only in helping others could he rid himself of his own sorrows . He watched the dead at the Chien home for the whole night.

Chapter Fifteen

8 not weep aloudtheiragain. relatives arrived, the two Chien women did Mrs. Chien's temples and cheeks sank XCEPT WHEN

deeply so that her nose and . cheek bones stuck out like the ridge pole and corners of a house. There was a tiny light in her deeply sunken eyes . It was as fierce as that of a gentle mother cat afraid that mischievous children would molest her kittens whose eyes were not yet open. It was as brave as a hen who sees a vulture flying overhead and calls her chicks to her wings . She would not weep again nor would she talk, but she shot out the light from her eyes and then withdrew it-keeping it inside for a while and then letting it out again. All were uneasy about this light. Fourth Master Li began to like Mrs. Chien very much; she was so simple and direct. When he suggested a plan she would at once nod and give him no trouble. Only when he suggested getting monks to pray for the dead did she shake her head. He wanted to know why. Perhaps the Chien family were "secondary hairy ones" -those who believed in the foreign religion-but he did not dare to ask. He could not think of any time when the family had been to church, nor was there any flavor of anything foreign in the house. Fourth Master Li went and asked the younger woman. She said, "Father-in-law and my husband were both fond of writing poetry and they did not believe in any gods or Buddhas." Fourth Master Li did not know what poetry was, and could see no con­ nection between whatever poetry was and in not believing in Buddha. So all he could do was to ask how much money there was in the family. The young woman replied without hesitation, "Not a copper." Fourth Master Li scratched his head. He took Rey Shuan to one side and whispered in his ear. Rey Shoan thought awhile and said, "I know that most of the people in the Little Sheep Fold will want to help, but I know that Mrs. Chien would be absolutely against our going out and taking up a collection for her. We ourselves could not get to­ gether more than eight or ten dollars. That is far from the amount needed. We had better ask the members of her own family." 1 06

·

"Let's ask them. In times like these everything must be paid for in cash. If it were not for the Japanese devils, I could guar­ antee to get a coffin on credit. Now I cannot get even a pound of rice on credit, to say nothing of a coffin ." Mrs. Chien's younger brother and the father of the younger woman had both come. Mrs . Chien's brother, Scholar Yeh, was a man of learning, thin and middle-aged. Because his face was thin his eyes looked especially large. When his eyes were still he seemed to be a deep person, but they were seldom still. With such a pair of eyes and with lips thin as a knife blade, he seemed light as a feather floating in the air. He was, in fact, neither deep nor frivolous. He was a good man. If he had not had a wife lying in the cemetery and another lying on the bed at home, and the eight children they had borne him, he would never have allowed anyone to think of him as light as a feather. If he could have exerted a little effort only, he could have become a famous scholar. But eight little mouths like locusts, and sixteen feet plowing through shoes made him lose forever his promise as a scholar. No matter how hard he worked, the shoes and socks of the eight children made it impossible for him to love them and at the same time fulfill his destiny. And though he loved them he was unable to keep them in shoes and socks. He was Mr. Chien's closest relative and also his best friend. He was very fond of coming to see his sister and brother-in-law. He could discuss scholarly matters with Mr. Chien. He called this rubbing the dust off his mind. He could not come often . Eight children, and a wife who was constantly ill, bound him to fire­ wood, rice, oil, and salt. It was he who watched the dead with Rey Shuan that first night. Rey Shuan liked the man. It was their anxiety about their country that brought their minds together. He said to Rey Shuan, "From the point of view of our long history there is nothing to be ashamed of in being a Chinese, but from the point of view of taking care of ourselves and of not taking public responsibility, I certainly do not admire the Chinese. Peiping has been lost for a long time and how many dare fight the enemy? The Chinese overfondness for living, and their ability to put up with shame, should be cursed . Although we talk in this way, yet you and I-" He stopped and quickly corrected himself. "No, I should not have said that." "Don't be disturbed." Rey Shuan smiled sadly at him. "There is not much difference between you and me." "Even so I had better talk of myself only. Eight children, an old sick wife-and I am stuck like a fly on flypaper. I wish to 10 7

soar but I cannot move my body. We-please excuse me. Not we-I-I am just an old woman." Rey Shuan sighed deeply. "I also am a woman." When Rey Shuan and Fourth Master Li began to discuss plans with Scholar Yeh, his eyes became still. His thin face gradually darkened. His face could not redden because the blood was too thin . He opened his mouth several times before he could speak. "I have no money. My sister is probably in the same condition." Fearing that Scholar Yeh would be embarrassed, Rey Shuan spoke quickly, "We are all poor together." They went to find the father of the younger woman, Third Master Wang. He was a tall man with broad shoulders, a thick neck, and a head that was almost square. He had no beard and there were left on his head a few grey hairs only. His scalp and his face were a shining red, and the reddest place of all was his broad nose. He could drink a catty and a half of kaoliang wine at a sitting. In his youth he could kick down the "five thick stakes," was an amateur wrestler, a stone lifter, and a proficient in stylized boxing, but he had never read a single book. Fifty-eight springs and autumns had passed over him, and although he had ceased training, he was still as strong as a bull. Wang the Third's office was a small tea shop. As he brewed his jasmine tea with the leaves he had brought himself, his eyes watched the people coming and going, his ears listened to the talk around him, and his mind counted his money. When he saw a suitable prospect or heard words that inspired him, he would wedge himself into business. He was a go-between for marriage engagements, he was middleman for buying and selling houses, he made loans. There was not an ideograph in his brain but there were many rows of neatly arranged figures. He was extremely fond of money but he could also be very generous. When he had to buy face he could treat himself with cruelty and bring out the money. He could not allow his red nose to lose any of its brilliance. He and Mr. Chien had been neighbors in the same courtyard. Mr. Chien had never borrowed money from him, and had instead often given him some of his own artemisia wine. Because of this the two had become good friends. Mr. Chien had a stomach full of poetry and Wang the Third had a stomach full of accounts, but when they were not talking of poetry or of accounts, when their faces were red with wine, the two discovered that they were both human beings . Because of this friendship they had become relatives by marriage. After his daughter's marriage, Wang the Third had had some 1 08

regrets . The Chien family could never keep accounts and, in fact, had no accounts to keep. Looking more carefully, however, he saw that his daughter was not oppressed by her father-in-law or her mother-in-law; that the husband and wife got on well together; that although the Chien family were poor, they had the pride of poverty. Not only had they never borrowed money from him, they did not seem to know what money was; and the artemisia wine of his relatives by marriage was as fragrant as it had been before. Now he could drink it for nothing. He therefore dis­ missed his regret, and from time to time secretly gave his daughter a bit of money, sacrificing both capital and interest. This time, when he came to the Chien family, he knew that the business of buying the coffin was his, yet he did not feel that he should vol­ unteer. He must wait. His money was like a star in an opera : it must wait until the proper music is played for an entrance. Fourth Master Li and Rey Shuan came to beat the drum, for the opening of the act. Wang the Third immediately agreed and readily. "Within two hundred dollars, I will carry the cost. If more than two hundred, I will not be responsible even for petty cash. In times like these there is not much in anyone's hands." After saying this, he and Fourth Master Li discussed details. He agreed, nodding his head, to all of Fourth Master Li's proposals. After a few words he had discovered that Fourth Master Li knew his business. His contribution would not be misused. He did not pay much attention to Rey Shuan. He felt that Rey Shuan was too gentle and not a man of affairs . Fourth Master Li went away to make arrangements. Rey Shuan and Scholar Yeh talked as though there was a secret understand­ ing between them. They were both afraid of mentioning Mr. Chien. They both hoped that the old man was still alive, and could return to freedom, so that this family could have some way to manage; but they could not talk about him openly. They had no way to save Mr. Chien . Their eyes said to each other, "We are two of the most useless things." Talking back and forth, they came to the problem of how the two women would live. Suddenly a thought came to Rey Shuan, "Do you know whether they have any valuables stored away? Pictures, or rare editions of books? If they have anything of this kind we could help to sell them. Would they not then have some money to live on?" "I don't know." Scholar Yeh's eyes moved rapidly. "Even if they have anything, who would buy pictures and rare books now? Our ways of thinking are for peaceful times only. But today-" 1 09

''What about asking Mrs. Chien?" Scholar Yeh's eyes moved even more rapidly. "You do not know my sister's character. She adores my brother-in-law." Very care­ fully he had avoided using his brother-in-law's name. "She would rather starve a whole day than not give him his wine. If he wanted to buy a book, she would at once sell the silver pins from her headdress. You see, if he really had any valuables she would not touch them, to say nothing of selling them." "Then, after the funeral, what will they do?" Scholar Yeh did not speak for a long time although he was a very talkative man. Finally he said slowly, "I could move here to live with them. They need a close relative to look after them . Have you not seen the light in my sister's eyes?" Rey Shuan nodded. "That light in her eyes is not good. Her husband arrested, her two sons dead-I am afraid she has already made up her mind to some course of action. I am worried. I should come to care for her, but how can I feed two more people? Once a country is conquered, one loses the kindness that should exist between rela­ tives and friends. Moreover, my sister is used to quiet. If I bring eight children, in one day all the flowers in the courtyard will be trodden underfoot and, in half a day, their ears would be deafened. In a word, I have no way to help. My heart is nearly broken but I can think of nothing." The coffin arrived-a solid, clumsy, and unbeautiful coffin. All the defects of the unpainted wood showed clearly and pitilessly. The elder son, dressed in a suit of old clothes, was placed in this , feelingless box. Wang the Third struck the coffin twice with his big fist. The red light on his face . darkened and he called loudly, "Son, Son, you go in this cruel way." Still Mrs. Chien did not weep. When the coffin was about to be closed, she tremblingly took from her breast a small roll of faded paper and placed it beside her son's head. Rey Shuan and Scholar Yeh looked at the roll and guessed that it was a picture or two, but they did not dare to ask her. The young wife' wept loudly. Wang the Third went over and taking his daughter's hand, called in a loud voice, "Don't cry, don't cry." The daughter continued to weep. He stopped shout­ ing and his tears also fell. The day of the funeral was the saddest day for all the Little Sheep Fold. Sixteen poor men, without the usual funeral gar­ ments, directed by Fourth Master Li's sounding stick, slowly and 1 10

carefully carried the coffin out to the locust trees, and under them, placed it on the carrying frame. There was no heir to mourn, so young Mrs. Chien, her hair uncombed, wearing a long white sackcloth coat, walked in front of the coffin, to lead the soul. She looked like a ghost herself. Wang the Third, sad and impatient, supported her. The small group of musicians began to play the simple music. Fourth Master Li's sounding stick must not be struck wrong, not even once. It was the eyes and ears for the carriers . But the beating of the stick was not loud. Mrs . Chien rode in an old mule cart, pulled by a thin mule that was even slower than the speed of the coffin. Her eyes were dry and, with the strange look in them, stared steadily at the back of the coffin. As the cart moved, her head also moved slightly. Old Man Chi was still sick. Supported by Little Precious, he watched the funeral from inside his gate. He did not dare go out to watch . Little Niu Niu wanted to go out and watch but was pulled back by her mother. Rey Shuan, Little Tsui, and Sun the Seventh walked with the mourners. Except for the Kuan family, all the neighbors were standing outside their gates, weeping. Seeing young Mrs. Chien, Old Widow Ma nearly cried aloud, and was helped back home by her grandson . Little Mrs . Wen looked and went back into her house. Fourth Mistress Li's duty was to watch the house for the Chiens while they were away, yet she followed the coffin, weeping, to the entrance of the Little Sheep Fold, until she was scolded back by Fourth Master Li. The Chien family cemetery was outside the Tung Chih Men, the Gate Straight to the East. When the funeral procession had reached the Drum Tower, Wang the Third, acting for Mrs. Chien, decided to ask the friends not to accompany them any further. Rey Shuan was not used to long walks but still he wished to go as far as the city gate. Scholar Yeh, however, was willing to accept this well-intentioned suggestion . His thin face was al­ ready turning green. He knew that he would be ill if he went further. According to Peiping custom, close relatives must accom­ pany the procession to the grave. He was unwilling to be the only one to turn back and so whispered to Rey Shuan . Rey Shuan looked at the color of Scholar Yeh's face and decided to stop with him. Little Tsui and Sun the Seventh decided to go outside the city, to go the whole way. Scholar Yeh was very unhappy. He went to the side of the shabby old mule cart and took leave of his sister. Mrs. Chien' s 111

eyes were fixed on the back of the coffin. It was as if she heard and then as if she did not hear his words. He followed the cart a few steps. "Sister, don't take it so hard. If I don't come tomorrow, I will come the day after, to see you." There was much he wished to say but he stood there and the cart went on. Rey Shuan and Scholar Yeh stood by the side of the road and watched the coffin moving slowly forward. The street stretched out a long way and they could see the city gate through the haze of dust. Slowly the coffin drew further and further away, until the telephone lines were so close together they seemed like pliers, ready to seize the coffin; but the furthest gate tower slowly and quietly drew it forward, as if it wished to suck it into the tunnel of the city gate through which a coffin may pass out but never in . After standing a long time the two men started back home. They said nothing. Rey Shuan did not notice where they were going. With his head hanging they had passed the Drum Tower when suddenly he looked around. "Yo, where have I got to?" "I should not come this way either," said Scholar Yeh. Rey Shuan turned back and Scholar Yeh still followed him. Rey Shuan thought that he was being over ceremonious and after walking some distance could contain himself no longer. "Mr. Yeh, there is no need to accompany me further." Scholar Yeh's head could not have hung lower. He wiped his mouth with his sleeve and his thin lips began to tremble. "Mr. Chi," he sighed deeply, "Mr. Chi, you-you-have you a dollar? I want to take back a bit of flour. Eight children. Ai-" He sighed again. Rey Shuan quickly took a five-dollar bill and tucked it into Scholar Yeh' s hand. Quickly he walked toward his home.

·

Chapter Sixteen

H EY SHUAN and Fourth Mistress Li were very uneasy. It was I\- getting dark and yet those who went to the grave had not yet returned. Fourth Mistress Li had long since finished setting the rooms in order and was only waiting for them to get back before going home to rest. Since they had not returned and she was not one who could be idle, the best she could do was to take the old broom and sweep again to the east and to the west to pass the time. Rey Shuan constantly urged her to rest. As she came in and went out there was constantly in her mouth a grumbling 112

about "that Old Thing," as if all the troubles were due to Fourth Master Li. The setting sun cast a brilliant peach color on the clouds . The red cockscombs at the foot of the wall were-in that rosy light­ like great clots of blood. Gradually grey patches began to appear in the sunset clouds. The red of the cockscombs became dark purple. After a while the sunset clouds scattered. There were patches of red and patches of grey as if the sky displayed bunches of grapes and piles of apples. The grapes became brighter and were neither blue nor grey. They shone bright and transparent with a sinister frightening beauty. The red apples turned into fire balls with a purple tinge. Then as if the flowers had suddenly faded the sunset turned into a greyish haze and the sky became dark as if the sunset had fallen away. Rey Shuan called gently, "Fourth Mistress, go home and rest. You have worked the whole day through . You should take a rest." "That Old Thing! Having buried the coffin and he still does not return." She would not leave but insisted on waiting until Mrs. Chien got back. Suddenly she said, "Listen, they have come." She ran into the courtyard and nearly stumbled on the threshold. They heard the sound of the old mule cart stopping before the gate, and Wang the Third shouting angrily, "Is there any living person inside? Bring a light." Rey Shuan had reached the courtyard but went back into the room for the lamp. By the light of the lamp Rey Shuan saw people who were cov­ ered with yellow dust moving about, saw a motionless cart cov­ ered with yellow dust, and saw an animal dust-covered and with­ out the energy even to move its tail-an animal that might be a donkey or might be a mule. Wang the Third shouted, "You dead demons, carry her out." Fourth Master Li, Sun the Seventh, and Little Tsui-their faces and heads covered with yellow dust, their eyes black holes-said nothing but came forward to carry the person. Rey Shuan held the lamp and saw that the one they carried out was young Mrs . Chien. He tiptoed forward and looked into the cart and saw that it was empty. There was no Mrs. Chien the elder. Fourth Mistress Li rubbed her shortsighted eyes but still she could not see clearly. "What's happened? What's happened?" But her hands were already trembling. Wang the Third again gave orders. "Make way!" 113

Fourth Mistress quickly stepped aside and almost bumped into Little Tsui. "Bring the lamp and lead the way. Don't stand there like a post." Wang the Third shouted toward the light. Rey Shuan quickly turned himself and with one hand shading the light, slowly walked into the gate. When they reached the room, Wang the Third sat down on the floor. Although so strong, he was completely exhausted . Fourth Master Li was bent over so far that he' could not bend further. It was as though his two big feet could n ot move another step, but he was as usual calm and composed. He said to Fourth Mistress, "Go quickly and make some sugar drink. If there is no fire here, go home and get some." Fourth Mistress answered quickly, "There is a fire. I knew that you would want a drink when you returned. What has happened?" "Get to work. This is no time to talk." Fourth Master turned to Sun the Seventh and Little Tsui. "Go home and wash your faces, then go to my house for food. Where is the driver of the cart?" The driver was standing outside the room. Fourth Master Li took out some money. "Master, you have had a heavy day. On some other occasion I will invite you to drink with me." He did not give a copper more than the bargain. The driver, a donkey-faced, middle-aged man, did not even look at the money but put it into his pocket. "Oh, Fourth Master, we've been through much . I'm going." Fourth Master Li did not accompany the driver but said quickly to Wang the Third, "Who will go to Scholar Yeh' s to take the message?" "Not my business . I'm through ." Wang the Third still sat on the floor. His red nose covered with yellow dust was like a radish just pulled from the ground. "That fellow Yeh was not something to play with. Anyway I can't go for him. The soles of my feet are worn through." "What happened, Fourth Grandfather?" Rey Shuan asked . Fourth Master Li gasped, "Mrs. Chien beat herself to death on the coffin ." "What?" Rey Shuan was very sorry indeed that he had not gone all the way with the coffin. If there had been an extra person, perhaps Mrs. Chien might have been saved. And also, he and Scholar Yeh had noted that strange light in her eyes. Just tqen, Fourth Mistress Li forced a drink of warm sweetened water between young Mrs. Chien's lips. The young woman began 1 14

to gasp. Hearing his daughter's voice, Wang the Third forgot his sore feet and got up. "Child of a bitter fate. This is what I call a complete disaster." As he spoke, he went into the inner room to see his daughter. His temper was calmer and he made up his mind at once. "Daughter, don't worry. Your father will look after every­ thing. Your father will see that you have food and clothes . If you will come with me, we'll go home at once. Will you?" Rey Shuan knew that he could not let Wang the Third go. In a low voice he asked Fourth Master Li, "Where is the body?" "If it had not been for me, there would have been no way to manage at all. The temples will keep coffins, but will not receive an uncoffined body. I went first to the suburb outside the Gate Straight to the East and got a matchwood box on credit. Then I went to the Sacred Lotus Temple. I had almost to kowtow before they were willing to keep the coffin for two days. We should decide at once whether we will change to a real coffin, and how to make a funeral. Heh! Never in my whole life of helping people, have I met with such a business." The always calm :.md composed Fourth Master was now uneasy and impatient. "Fourth Mistress, give me a cup of tea. My throat is burning." "I go, I go." Fourth Mistress heard the trouble in her husband's voice and did not dare to call him "Old Thing." "We must not_Iet Wang the Third go," Rey Shuan said. Wang the Third came out of the inner room. "Why will you not let me go? Do I owe anything? I have buried my son-in-law, am I to be responsible for the mother-in-law of my daughter also? Go get that fellow Yeh. The dead one is his own sister." Rey Shuan controlled his anger, and said smiling, "Third Uncle, Scholar Yeh has just borrowed five dollars from me. Do you think he can manage a funeral?" "If I had five dollars, I would not lend it to that fellow." Wang the Third sat on a bench, and with one hand rubbed his feet and with the other wiped the yellow dust from his face. Rey Shuan said very simply to Wang the Third, "He is really poor. At this time, with the Japanese occupying the city, those who work cannot get their salaries . And he has eight children. What can he do? And so, Uncle, to do good, you must do it to the end. In short, without you there is no way to manage." Fourth Mistress Li brought a large pot of boiling water and poured a cup of tea for each. Fourth Master squatted. Wang the Third was still sitting on the bench. Together they sipped the hot tea. The warmth of the tea seemed to melt the ice in \Vang the Third's heart. "All right, Mr. Chi. Find Scholar Yeh . I will give ll5

the money, but he must be told. A smart man does not spend his money in the dark." Although he was very tired, Rey Shuan decided to look himself for Scholar Yeh. The moon had not come up and the gate passage was very dark. Not very far from the gate Rey Shuan stepped on a round thing, like a stick, but not as hard. He withdrew his foot instinctively, thinking it was a big snake. Before he could think that there were. no big snakes in the north, a voice came from the ground, saying, "Strike! There is nothing to say." Rey Shuan recognized the voice. "Uncle Chien, Uncle Chien !" There was no sound from the ground. Rey Shuan bent and searched, straining his eyes. He saw Mr. Chien lying face down. His body was inside the gate and his feet were on the threshold. Rey Shuan found an arm. It was still soft but was cold and damp. He shouted to those in the house, "Uncle Wang, Grandfather Li, come quickly." His urgent voice stirred the two old men . They ran out quickly. Wang the Third said, "What's happened now? What's happened now?" "Come quickly, we must carry Uncle Chien," Rey Shuan said impatiently. "Who? My in-law?" Wang the Third collided with Rey Shuan. "Relative, you have chosen a good time to come back." But very quickly he found and lifted Mr. Chien's legs. Fourth Master Li, feeling in the dark, lifted Mr. Chien' s shoulders . When they reached the room they placed Mr. Chien on the floor. He was really Mr. Chien, but he was not as they remem­ bered him. There was no flesh on Mr. Chien' s plump face. There was left only loose skin hanging. His hair was long and stuck together as if with glue and in it were stuck cakes of mud and bits of straw. The skin on his temples was burnt brown and crisp, and there were brown marks as though he had been cuffed. His eyes were closed and his open mouth showed that he had no teeth . He had on only a thin short coat and a pair of trousers . They were torn in places, and in places stuck to his body. The cloth was hard with blood or other sticky material . His feet were bare and covered with filth and mud. They were so swollen they looked like two small pigs just out of the wallow. They all stared at him. Surprise, pity, and anger twisted their hearts . Fourth Mistress Li brought a cup of hot sugar water. Very care1 16

fully and reverently Rey Shuan lifted the old man's head so that Fourth Mistress could feed him the sugar water. Mr. Chien's lips moved and he groaned. Fourth Master Li brought an old wicker chair from the inner room. As soon as they had raised Mr. Chien to the sitting position, Wang the Third said, "Aiii," with an accent of surprise. On Mr. Chien's back were left only the two shoulders of his coat. Below the shoulders were a few strips of cloth only, firmly inlaid in the blood on his back. In places the blood was congealed and firm, yellow and red. In places there were open wounds, bright red, from which yellowish liquid oozed . Some of the wounds were not open but were black and blue and swollen. From under some of the black scabs came streams of white mucous. A strip of cloth, a strip of black, a strip of red, a strip of black, a strip of white; his black was a bloody web, woven over many days. "In-law, In-law," Wang the Third said, "how did this happen?" "Don't disturb him." Rey Shuan supported Mr. Chien. "Fourth Master, go quickly and get a doctor." "I have some Yunnan powder." Fourth Master started to go quickly to fetch the medicine. "Yunnan powder will not do. Get a foreign-trained doctor, a surgeon," Rey Shuan said decisively. Although Fourth Master Li had faith in Yunnan powder, he did not dare to argue. Dragging his two feet which could hardly move, he went out. Mr. Chien opened his eyes and groaned, and then shut them again . Fourth Mistress Li brought another cup of sugar water. After he had drunk a bit, Mr. Chien' s stomach rumbled. His eyes were still closed but his toothless mouth moved a little, although no one could understand what he said. After a while Mr. Chien said clearly, "Beat me again. I have nothing to say, nothing to say!" As he spoke, his hands, which were as black as his feet, scrabbled in the earth as if to brace himself against the pain. Suddenly he opened his eyes and they were like the eyes of an image in a temple, big and bright but without sight. "In-law, it is I, Wang the Third." Wang the Third squatted on the floor and brought his eyes on a level with Mr. Chien's. "Uncle Chien, I am Rey Shuan." Mr. Chien closed his eyes and when he opened them again, he was still looking straight ahead, as if he was trying to think of something that was difficult to recall.

In the inner room, Fourth Mistress Li, half-pleading and half­ scolding, said to young Mrs. Chien, "Don't get up, good child. Lie longer. If you don't listen to me I will not take care of you any more." It seemed as if Mr. Chien had forgotten the thing he had been thinking about and his eyes closed to slits and his head fell to one side as if listening secretly. Hearing the voices in the inner room, anger appeared on his face. "Ahh" -he sucked his lips twice -"now it is Number Three's turn to be tortured. Brace vourself. " Don't give way. Bite your lips even if you bite them to pieces." Young Mrs. Chien came out of the inner room. She cried, "Father!" Rey Shuan thought that surely her voice and the mourning clothes she was wearing would attract Mr. Chien's attention, but Mr. Chien did not notice anything. Putting her hands on the old wicker chair, the young woman wept. Mr. Chien pressed his hands on the ground, as if to stand up. Rey Shuan wanted to take this opportunity to help him into the chair, but Mr. Chien's strength came forth like that of a mad man's. With a sudden effort he was up on his haunches. His eyes sunken and bright, he said, ''Now I remember, his name is Kuan . Ha, ha ! I will ask him to go and see. I am not dead." With another effort he was standing. He shook himself twice and then stood steadily. He saw Rey Shuan but did not recognize him. His sunken cheeks quivered and he tried to back away. ''Who are you? Are you taking me to the electric torture?" He placed his two hands quickly on his temples. "Uncle Chien, it is I, Chi Rey Shuan. This is your home." Mr. Chien's eyes were like those of a hungry tiger imprisoned in a cage. He still looked at Rey Shuan but could not tell who he was. , Wang the Third suddenly had an idea. "In-law, your son and your wife are both dead ." He thought that if Mr. Chien heard this sad news he might be shocked into the present. Mr. Chien did not understand what Wang the Third had said. The fingers of his right hand pressed his temple as if he were trying to think of something. He began to walk forward. He could hardly lift his swollen feet, and when he had lifted them he did not seem to know where to put them down. After he had walked a few steps he seemed to be happier. "I can't forget. How can I forget? I will go and confront that man Kuan." As he spoke he went forward, the effort as great as though he were walking in chains. 118

Because he could think of no better plan, Rey Shuan thought well of Wang the Third's. He decided that if Mr. Chien thought only of going to find Mr. Kuan, there was no need to stop him. He went over and took Mr. Chien's arm, to support him. "Stand aside." Mr. Chien would not let anyone help him. "Stand aside. Why are you taking hold of me? I can walk. I can also walk to the execution ground." Rey Shuan could only walk behind him. Wang the Third looked at his daughter and also followed . There is no telling how many times Mr. Chien came near to falling, before he arrived outside the gate of the Kuan house. Wang the Third and Rey Shuan were close behind him, fearing that he would fall. The gate of the Kuan Family was open. Mr. Chien tried sev­ eral times but he could not mount the steps. His swollen feet would not work. Wang the Third helped his relative through the gate. The Kuan couple were entertaining two guests at a game of cards. The guests were a man and a woman. The man was a big fellow who looked as if under the war lords he had been a colonel or a general. The woman was about thirty years old and looked like a woman who had been a prostitute but was now married. The man was a minor war lord. The woman was the prostitute then living with him. He had lived in Tientsin and had come only recently to Peiping. It was said that he would become the head of the secret police. Because of this the Kuans had asked him to dinner and begged him to bring his female companion. After eating they had started to play cards. The war lord had no ethics . Whenever he had an ace, king, or queen in his hands he would mark it. When dealing he would look at the others' cards and say shamelessly, "Huh, you have a pair of aces ." When he had fin­ ished dealing he would tum up the cards that were left. His mind and his hands were both clumsy so he could not cheat secretly. His methods were those of open blackmail such as had always been practiced by the old war lords. The Kuan couple were a pair of skilled card players and cer­ tainly would not willingly suffer this kind of cheating. They de­ cided today, however, that they were willing to lose in this way to the man who might tomorrow be the head of the secret police. The more Morning Lotus lost, the more at ease he was and the livelier he became. From time to time he made eyes at the woman. Big Red Pepper� however, sometimes could not control her temper. Her freckles became bright and dark in tum. From time 1 19

to time Morning Lotus touched her with the tip of his shoe to make her understand that she must not offend their guests. Morning Lotus was facing the door and was the first to see Mr. Chien. When he saw Mr. Chien all the blood left his face. He put down the cards and tried to stand. "What's the matter?" Big Red Pepper asked. Before he could answer she saw them coming in. "What do you want?" When she recognized Mr. Chien she also put down her cards. "Old Kuan, your play." The war lord had glanced at those coming in but his mind was entirely absorbed in the play. Mr. Chien saw Kuan the Morning Lotus, and his lips began to move slightly like those of a young pupil standing in front of the teacher, first saying his lesson over to himself. Wang the Third followed his relative closely and stood beside him. Rey Shuan had thought not to enter the room but then he felt that he was a coward if he did not go in, and very quietly he also entered the room. Morning Lotus saw Rey Shuan and wanted to raise his hands in the ceremonious salute, but he could not lift his hands. He sat stunned. "His mother's--! What is all this about?" The war lord be­ came angry. Mr. Chien stepped forward. He had recognized no one since his return but now he recognized Morning Lotus, and his words, like a poem long memorized, sprang forth as from a spring. "Mr. Kuan, you need not be afraid. I am a poet. I do not know how to use force. I have come because I want to see you, and that you should see that I am not dead. The Japanese are skilled in beating people, but though they have broken my flesh and broken my bones, they cannot make me change my mind. My heart is always that of a Chinese. You? May I ask you? Of what country is your heart? Please answer me." When he finished speaking, he seemed entirely exhausted. He swayed. Rey Shuan quickly supported the old man. Morning Lotus was motionless except for licking his lips con­ tinuously. Mr. Chien's appearance and words moved him not at all . He was afraid only t;hat Mr. Chien might rush forward and seize him. The war lord spoke. "Mrs. Kuan, what is this all about?" Big Red Pepper understood Mr. Chien, knew that he had not come to fight, and that she had by her side the chief of the secret 1 20

police. She decided to be tough . "This is just to make trouble. Roll, all of you, roll." The square head and red nose of Wang the T�ird suddenly shone. In a step he was beside the card table. "Who is to get out?" He caught Morning Lotus by the throat, pulled him forward and then pushed him back. Morning Lotus and the chair were both pushed over. "Beating people, are you?" Big Red Pepper stood up. Her eyes looked to the war lord for help . The war lord stood up quickly and went to one side. The prosti­ tute hid like a mouse behind him. "A good Son of Han does not fight a woman ." Wang the Third started around the table to pick up Morning Lotus who lay upside down like a turtle. Big Red Pepper was slow in moving out of the way, and as Wang the Third impatiently raised his hand it struck her face, loosening two of her teeth . Blood began to flow from her mouth. She put her hand to her mouth and began to shout, "Help ! Help !" "If you shout I will beat you to death ." Big Red Pepper held her face and dared not make another sound. She moved to one side. She wanted to go out and call the police but she knew that the police of this time did not do their work well. At this moment, even she felt the inconvenience of having lost the country. The war lord and the prostitute both wanted to escape. Wang the Third feared they would go for reinforcements and shouted, "Don't move." Rey Shuan had no desire to stop the fight but he was afraid that Mr. Chien. would faint again. He held the old man's arms tightly with both his hands and said to Wang the Third, "That will do. Let's go." Wang the Third walked very calmly around the table. "I must give him a lesson. Don't worry. I know how to beat people and give them pain without hurting their flesh or bones." Morning Lotus, his arms and legs busy, had turned himself over and, seeing no way to escape, had crawled under the table. Wang the Third seized one of his feet and, as if dragging a dead dog, pulled him out. Morning Lotus knew the code of ethics of the semireligious boxing organizations and their strict orders, patterned on the family. He put himself under \Vang the Third's protection and gave himself the final humiliation. He called out, "Father, don't beat me!" 121

Wang the Third was blocked . Morning Lotus had called him father, so he could not beat him. Rubbing his red nose, he said helplessly, "You got off cheap this time, young fellow." When he had finished speaking, he squatted and taking Mr. Chien on his back, nodded to Rey Shuan. "Let's go." Outside the door of the room, he stood still and said, "I am Wang the Third. I live on New Street. Whenever you wish to call on me, I will serve you tea respectfully."

Chapter Seventeen

'l J R. v vi or

recovered slowly. Although he still slept more day night than he was awake, he now knew hunger and thirst. Rey Shuan took his fur coat secretly to the pawnshop and bought a few chickens to make soup for the sick man . He did . not know whether-when the winter came-he would be able to redeem the coat or not, but even if he had no fur coat to wear in the winter he would be satisfied if Mr. Chien were but restored to strength. Young Mrs. Chien was still very pale but she steadfastly refused to let Fourth Mistress nurse her and insisted on getting up to wait on her father-in-law. Wang the Third on his way to the tea shops came in every day to see his daughter and her father-in-law. Although Mr. Chien could now eat and drink he still did not recognize anyone; so whenever Wang the Third came, whether Mr. Chien was asleep or awake, he would always go to the head of the sickbed and nod his square head. He did not expect to talk with his in-law nor had he much to say to his daughter. He thought that to be widowed was to be widowed, just as to sell a house was to sell a house. There was no need to go out of the way to be sorrowful. When he estimated that his daughter was out of money he would put two or three dollars on the bed of the sick man and with a loud voice, as if broadcasting to the world, would say to his daughter, "I have put the money on the bed." Whenever he came to the Chien house or left, he would stand awhile outside the gate to show that he was not afraid to be seen by the Kuan family. If he did not see any of them he would cough loudly once or twice. Before long all the children in the Little Sheep Fold were imitating his cough and they often prac­ ticed behind Mr. Kuan as he walked by. Mr. Kuan was not, however, unwilling to come out of his gate. CHIEN

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Recently, wherever he went, he heard that now there were three ways to official preferment. The first was the City Government, but at this time in the City Government, the Tientsin clique was most influential. Second was the New People's League, a lately organized government bureau, a propaganda bureau born from the smoke of guns. It was to spread, for the Japanese army, .the news of their "benevolence." With this organization, the Japanese army was able to cover over the pools of blood left by their butchering. With this organization, the Japanese believed that they had a peaceful way to deal with the Chinese. Any person who had a skiII, even if only one, could squeeze in. The third way was to come to the notice of the "Old Men" of the secret societies . These do not know politics. They seek only practical safety for themselves and their disciples, the members of the societies . They may know enmity to the Japanese, but if the enemy should give them face, they could for the sake of their own safety, work to­ gether with the Japanese. It was not necessary for them to become officials; they were willing to be advisers of the enemy. Theirs was the most solid and enduring power. Morning Lotus thought he should enter the New People's League. He did not inquire carefully what were the functions of this new society, but felt only that he had the qualifications for a first-class collaborator. At the worst, he could sing a few operatic arias learned from Peach Blossom . He began to work in this direc­ tion. Though he still had had no success after running around several days, he did not lose heart. With great complaisance he told Rey Feng about two of the three roads. Rey Feng's little dry face darkened . He had not thought that Mr. Kuan was a man with such vision and ability. Mr. Kuan did not tell Rey Feng about the New People's League, because he was in the midst of running down that road himself and there was no need to let Rey Feng add to the competition. Mr. Kuan had measured carefully in his mind and decided where he should tell and where he should guard the secret. On the West Long Peace Street, from the office of the New People's News, a balloon was sent up. Under the balloon was a large flag, and on the flag were huge words : "To C ELEBRATE THE FALL OF pAOTING. " The New People's League seized the opportunity to show what they could do. Even if the Japanese had wanted to keep quiet, the chief collaborators in the New People's League would not have been willing. They did not distinguish between China and Japan, and were willing to be slaves if only they were given food. Their 123

sense of nationality was that of flies or bedbugs. They decided to organize a huge parade. Knowing that it would be difficult to get the other organizations and civic societies to join in, they decided to get the students. They wanted all the middle-school and pri­ mary-school students to march in the parade to make it a success . Rey Feng became very much excited. In the past, whenever there was a celebration among his friends or relatives, he would be sure to join in. Even on "sad occasions" -at the times of wear­ ing white-he would be there, to eat, to see, and to enjoy. Women wearing white mourning clothes were even more beautiful than usual. Rey Feng would pay special attention to the wine and food, the degree of goodness or badness, and whether the monks chanted the prayers in good voice or not. He would then, on returning home, tell about these things for all to hear. The sadness of the occasion was for others. The enjoyment was his own . He made a sharp distinction between these two. But even he was somewhat ashamed to celebrate the fall of his country; and by the time he saw the five-colored flags in the streets, the pine branches on the tram cars, and the colored streamers,. he felt that the "sad occasion" of the country was like that of a family, only larger. He must certainly see this excitement. Among his colleagues at the school where Rey Feng was busi­ ness manager was a man whose surname was Lan, and whose given name was Purple Sun. When this man gave him a smile and a few nice words, "Old Feng, you must help in this parade," he felt that he must put forth real exertion. Mr. Lan was dean of the school and also taught Chinese. His power in the school was greater than that of the headmaster. He could write essays and modern poetry, and liked being called a writer. His poetry and his essays were of the same style as his appearance. He was very short and his face was very thin. His nose was bent to the left and his right eye was permanently rolled upward. Thus, one to the right and one toward the left, it was as though he had cut his own face in two. His essays and poems were short like his body, and in these few short lines he would use many "althoughs" and "yets," confusing his thought as his nose and eyes confused those with whom he talked. His poems and essays always returned very soon after they had been sent out. He was not fond of brushing his teeth, and his words were more foul than his mouth. Because of this his colleagues did not like to provoke him so he became even more conceited. Gradually he became the tyrant of the school. If anyone had been willing to give him but one slap, he would have run away and not have 1 24

dared return to his rooms even for his baggage; but his colleagues dared not put forth their hands against anyone for anything. When the Japanese took Peiping, Mr. Lan changed his name from Purple Sun to Eastern Sun, an allusion to the Rising Sun . He began to send his compositions to the papers published by the enemy or by the traitors. Mr. Lan's essays did not make sense, but because these papers lacked material, the two words Eastern Sun, like two little black moles, appeared often on the rumps of the papers. Whenever he saw any of his own work published, he would cut it out very carefully, mount it on school stationery, and hang it on the wall, adding page by page. He did not smile easily. But seeing the row of mounted papers he laughed loudly. He was grateful to the Japanese for giving him a chance to make a name. What most touched his heart was the fee of eighty cents per con­ tribution . Looking at his eighty cents, he would imagine eight dollars, eighty dollars, eight hundred dollars. He joined the New People's League. During the last two days he had been busy preparing for the celebration and hurriedly writing propaganda literature. His short essays were not difficult to write. In one forenoon he could write forty or fifty pieces. The preparations for the celebration were, however, not so easy. He notified all the teachers and all the students and said many threatening words. When the students went out as a body, they were usually conducted by the physical education director, but Eastern Sun did not dare to try to force the physical · education director to lead them this time. He was afraid of his fist. So he seized on Rey Feng. "Old Feng" -with a great effort he arranged his eyebrows and nose and eyes into a forced smile-"if none of them will go, let's you and me go. I will be the captain of the march . No-I will be the commander and you will be the vice-commander." Rey Feng's little dry face shone. He liked excitement and he liked even more the title vice-commander. "I will be glad to help, but what if the students refuse to obey?" "That's very simple. Anyone who won't go will be expelled. Very simple."

'?'HERE \..!

_

BEEN

Chapter Eighteen

HAD a period in the Kuan family when Big Red Pepper and Peach Blossom had joined forces to attack Morning Lotus . Sunset Glory, the wife of Little Wen, had been the cause of the co-operation between Mr. Kuan's two wives.

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Little Wen had been born on the first day of the first month of the first year of the Republic of China. He was born in a palace with a garden c ompound and many courtyards and pavilions. When he was a child every second of his life had been paid for in gold. That there were among his many toys one or two small gold ingots of a tael each and small teapots carved from solid green jade was not considered anything unusual. If he had been born twenty or thirty years earlier he would have inherited a title, that of Duke of the First Rank, and have ridden in a sedan chair carried by eight bearers when he went to see the emperor. He had many pairs of beautiful pigeons which according to sched­ ule danced and flew every day in the blue sky like a moving sun­ set cloud . He had many little gourds full of pedigreed crickets and whenever they were in contests many white and shining silver dollars would change hands. He ate and drank and played and laughed in the same luxury as the crown prince without the restric­ tions of a crown prince. Besides eating, drinking, playing, and laughing, he was also often ill . One who lives in the midst of gold is often not fully healthy. Also whenever he was ill he received more affection, and more money was wasted so the illness became an interesting pastime. A nobleman's illness is often more enviable than the health of the poor. Little Wen was very intelligent. Although he was not very familiar with books he became expert after one look at whatever game or pastime he took up. When he was eight years old he could already sing several complete operas and by the time he was ten he could play the flute and fiddle exceptionally well. By the time he was thirteen or fourteen, Duke Wen's great two­ storied palaces, the goldfish and the white pigeons, had all been changed into flour and grain. This had not disturbed him. He had not bought those valuable things and he did not know how much they were worth. He did not know how much a pound of flour or of grain cost. He felt only amusement that those things could be changed for grain and flour. Having been amused this way many times, he discovered that all he had left was the flute and the fiddle. His wife, Sunset Glory, had been early betrothed to him by his family. Her family was not as great a family as his, but like his, it had also suddenly found itself with nothing. They were married when they were eighteen and had a small home in which everything, whether an onion or a table, had to be bought by themselves. Why they had been born into golden families was a riddle to them. Why suddenly they should be changed to people 1 26

without even as much as a tile to their names was something they had learned in a dream. They knew only that they were as beauti­ ful as a pair of flowers and that if they had but a roof to keep the rain and snow away from them, they could be as happy as a pair of little birds in the spring. They did not know what was meant by "national affairs" nor how many continents there were in the world . They had no sentiment about their past nor any worry about the future. If they had food today they took the living of the day. After eating they would sing together. Their singing gradually brought them rice and flour, and so without any worry or struggle they used their singing to make a living. They had passed through the greatest changes of history, yet they were living in as artless a way as babes. Their artlessness brought them their greatest blessing. Little Wen had by now forgotten that he should be addressed as Duke. After his marriage his health had improved . He was a short man with a small square face and two long fine eyebrows. His appearance was appealing. He had no conceit nor did he feel inferior. He was always simple and natural. His eyes looked straight at anyone and he walked neither quickly nor slowly. He was polite to all and at the same time he never went out of his way to cultivate anyone. If the neighbors came to him for help he never shook his head but gave whatever happened to be in his hands . Because of these qualities the neighbors did not look down on him for his profession but respected him for his conduct as a man. Sunset Glory was thinner and more delicate in appearance than her husband yet she had more energy. She had an oval face and a delicate neck. Her skin was fine and white. Her eyebrows were strong and arched . Her eyes bright and clear. She walked slowly with her eyes. on the ground as if she were afraid of stepping on a worm. Seeing her walking slowly with her head bent, no one would have believed that she could go on the stage and sing an op�ra. Yet when she was on the stage her face shone like the petals of a peach blossom. She had the figure for acting and walked rhythmically. She used the rhythmic motion to control the music. When necessary she could walk very fast-it was not walking, it was as though she flew across the stage. Her singing, her acting, her ability to make up, all qualified her to be a profes­ sional but she preferred to be an amateur and did not join any company. She sang and Little Wen played her accompaniments on the flute or the fiddle. He never showed off but accompanied fit1 27

tingly. If there were those who understood opera that criticized Sunset's singing and acting, there were none who did not admire his fiddling. With his fiddle Sunset's voice could without strain­ ing get applause. Little Wen's earnings were greater than hers be­ cause he did not need to buy costumes and people constantly sought him as an accompanist. When this young couple had first moved to the Little Sheep Fold all the young people of the place had added pomade to their hair and those who could not afford pomade had added more water. Whether they had an excuse or not they each walked an extra time or two in the open space under the locust trees hoping to see Sunset. She did not come out often and even when she did she walked with bent head so that no one could come close to her. After a few months all began to understand that the young couple were good, and stopped putting oil on their hair. The one who had come out most often on her account was Morning Lotus. He not only met her in the Little Sheep Fold, he was able to go to see her at the opera. He felt that if he was cold to her he had overlooked a duty to himself. Since in age, appear­ ance, and talent she was far above Peach Blossom, if he did not pay attention to her would it not be thought that he had eyes but did not recognize value? He knew that the young men added oil to their hair but he was c onfident that if he should merely ad­ vance a step none of them would have any hope. He therefore had decided to step forward. He had met Sunset several times in the Little Sheep Fold and on the main street. He had followed her closely and coughed gently and made alluring eyes but with no result. He changed his tactics . Taking some simple gift he went to call on his new neighbors . The Little Wen couple lived in two eastern rooms. The outer room was the living room and the inner room the bedroom. A clean white curtain hung in the frame of the door leading into the bedroom . There was not much in the sitting room except a tea table and two stools. In the corner were three rattan reeds to be used as swords and spears as they practiced their war dances. The room was so simply furnished to make it possible for Sunset to practice the martial dances and operatic steps. Little Wen sat in the living room and chatted with Mr. Kuan. Mr. Kuan knew a little about opera and decided to talk about it with Little Wen . Chatting awhile, Little Wen saw that the eyes of his guest were always on the white curtain, so he called, "Sunset, Mr. Kuan 1 28

has come," as though Mr. Kuan were an old friend of many years. Very, very slowly, Sunset lifted the curtain and came out. She was wearing a blue gown which was neither long nor short, and a pair of white satin slippers. She had powdered her face very lightly. As she came out, she looked at the guest with dignity and .said in a full, clear voice, "Mr. Kuan, please seat yourself." Mr. Kuan sat again before he had been able fully to rise. He was confused. She was really very good to look at but he dared not look at her too much. Her voice was good to hear, but he did not want to hear more of it, because in the voice was a sobering chill. They talked about any subject he brought up. But what­ ever they talked about, their language and facial expressions were always held within a certain limit. They never crossed that line nor did they allow Morning Lotus to cross that line. Morning Lotus was adept at making advances through seemingly stupid clowning, but here he was not able to use these tactics . The young couple had many callers. Some came to teach Sun­ set and some came to learn from her. Some came to learn the fiddle from Little Wen. There were men and women, young and old, seemingly useless people, without whom, however, no society can be a society. They had a useless use. The callers seemed to know this, so they only nodded their heads slightly to Mr. Kuan, when they came in, to show their dignity; and when they went out, they said only, "See you again," and did not use any of the more friendly expressions. Mr. Kuan sat there for four hours . They talked of the opera they were rehearsing, about steps in the dances in the opera, about practicing the fiddle. The Wens felt no inconvenience because of him . They seemed most natural and as though he were not really in the line of their vision . Mr. Kuan felt that they were both cold to him. Several times he thought to leave but he could not bear to do so. He knew that he should not just sit there stupidly but that he should join in their activity. At a suitable opportunity he said to Little Wen, "I also can sing an aria or two." It was meant as a hint for Little Wen to play the fiddle while he sang. Little Wen did not nod nor did he shake his head. He merely put Mr. Kuan's words aside. Mr. Kuan again thought about leaving. Just at this moment, because there were too many people in the room, Little Wen rolled up the white curtain. Morning Lotus' eyes were suddenly blinded . The walls of the inner room had recently been papered, clean and warm as a bridal chamber. The imported bed had a spring 1 29

mattress. The few pieces of furniture were of redwood. On the wall hung a very valuable landscape painting. This room was richer and in better taste than his. Morning Lotus first stood at the door and looked in. Then pretending to examine the painting, he went in and inspected the whole room. After the inspection he sat on their bed and looked very carefully at the embroidery on their pillows. He sat another hour. During this last sixty min­ utes he came to a conclusion. He was sure that Sunset must have a second profession, otherwise how could they afford to buy such furniture and objects of art. He decided he must lie a few times on this bed. On the next day he came very early to report. The Wen couple did not welcome him nor were they purposely cold to him. They were as before, not close and not distant. When it was about time for the noon meal, he invited them to go with him to eat in a small restaurant. They excused themselves, saying they had work to do. On the third day, Mr. Kuan came even earlier. The young couple were as before, not humble and not arrogant. He had to acknowledge that there was no progress in his affair. But all the more, because of this, he could not change his road. Just being there, even if no one said anything and they merely sat opposite each other in silence, still made him feel exalted. It was during these four or five days that Big Red Pepper and Peach Blossom had become allies. In the beginning, if it had not been that the gold of Big Red Pepper's family glittered in the heart of Morning Lotus, he would never have married her. Her face had been as freckled before their marriage. After their marriage Big Red Pepper loved Morning Lotus very much . He had really been a lovable and romantic young man . She was also afraid, for she did not know what she would do if he should give his affections to another woman . So, while he slept quietly behind her, she would plan how to love him, to dress him up, to serve him, like an older sister concerned for a younger brother. When she saw or guessed that he was not obeying her, she could discipline him ruthlessly, and be as cruel as a stepmother beating her stepson. It was a pity that she never bore a male child to the Kuan family. No matter how stubbornly she boasted, she could not tell the world with a loud voice, "It's all right, even if there is no son." She had been to all the women's hospitals, she had burned incense to all the goddesses who brought babies, but she had not been able to keep Morning Lotus from taking a "small wife," 1 30

since his motive was high and noble-to get a son. She made scenes; she shed tears and spoke of suicide; she pied with him again and again. She used all the ways and means but she had not been able to stop his marriage to Peach Blossom. Morning Lotus had shown courage and cleverness in carrying out this project. He arranged everything in three days. He had given a great feast to his friends and told them that because he wanted a son he had taken a secondary wife. He rented a suite of northern rooms in the south city to be his second bridal chamber. Big Red Pepper, marshaling her infantry and cavalry, made a surprise attack on the camp, before those in the bridal chamber could get to sleep. There was not much furniture in the rooms but what there was, she broke into a thousand pieces . She did this to establish her supremacy. Having done this, she hired a motorcar and escorted her husband and the new wife home. She had to acknowledge Peach Blossom's existence, but she could make that existence live before her own eyes. If it had been possible she would have ground her to death. Peach Blossom was able, fortunately, to establish her own battle ground firmly. For every attack made by Big Red Pepper she made a counterattack. Big Red Pepper and Peach Blossom quarreled at every opportunity, yet secretly each gave the other grudging ad­ miration. Morning Lotus, running each day to the Wen home, made Big Red Pepper and Peach Blossom change from enemies to allies . Big Red Pepper decided she would not allow her husband to take another "loose" woman. Peach Blossom had not borne a son to Morning Lotus and also she was getting older. If Morning Lotus should really bring in another woman, her outlook would be very dark. The two wives made an alliance. Peach Blossom decided not to say a word but asked Big Red Pepper to be plenipotentiary for her. Big Red Pepper shot goal in her first sentence. "Morning Lotus, I ask you not to go again to Number Six. If you must go, Peach Blossom and I have decided that we will break your legs . When we have crippled you, we two will willingly support you and take care of you." Morning Lotus wanted to argue, to say that he had gone only to learn a few songs, and that he had no other intention. Big Red Pepper would not let him open his mouth. She said, "Now your legs are good. If you want to go, go. But after you have gone, your legs- What I say, I will do." Her voice was ex131

ceptionally low but her face was ghostly white, showing that she could have killed at once. Morning Lotus wanted to resist her and started several times to walk away, but each time he remembered the ghastly look on his wife's face and dared not go to see Sunset. Peach Blossom and Big Red Pepper took turns standing guard over the front gate. Morning Lotus had no way to escape the eyes of the sentry. He could only make careful inquiries about where Sunset was going, and when and at what theater she was performing, so that he could be one of those who applauded her nightly, hoping that he could go backstage and see her, and invite her to eat with him'. He saw her in an opera but she did not look at him from the stage. He went backstage to see her only to find that she had disappeared. Before long, Big Red Pepper saw through this bit of secret work. As soon as Mr. Kuan sat down in the theater, the two wives sat also in the theater. As soon as Mr. Kuan shouted with his whole heart in applause of Sunset, both his ears were seized simul­ taneously, and he was dragged out of the theater, his feet not touching the ground. He had become the prisoner of war of his two wives. After this, although Morning Lotus had not given up hope, on the surface he obeyed his wife's words . He did not even dare look at the gate of Number Six. After the J apanese came into Peiping, Morning Lotus was very much concerned about the Wen couple. It was true that they had redwood furniture in their room, but all the theaters were closed. They would probably soon be hungry. He wanted very much to send them some grain or a few dollars. But if he went secretly, it would provoke quarrels . If he should try to talk , it over with his wife, she would not believe that his motives were good. The more concerned he became about the Wen couple, the more he pitied himself, that he had lost control and dignity in the family. Now that he had had his attention called to the New People's League and had learned through inquiries that the great parade was to be managed by this organization, he had also heard that all walks of life had been notified to join the parade. These were the cobblers', the carpenters', and other artisans' guilds, and their clubs and the semireligious societies-the "hui." These "hui" were organized by those who wished to go on pilgrimages to Miao Feng Shan or other temples, to offer incense and their skills to the gods . There were the society of "Those Who Clear the Path," the so­ ciety of the "Lion Dancers," the "Stilt Walkers," and the "Sword 1 32

Dancers," and many others . In recent years because of the growing poverty of the people, the decline in the belief in "religious super­ stitions," the changes in the ways of public amusement, these so­ cieties had begun to die out. Four or five years before the war these nearly forgotten folk dances had been discovered by the army and revived. The army did not revive them to please the gods but for developing skills. Those in the New People's League remembered these exhibitions, and since these societies were organized by mem­ bers of the different trade guilds, they thought that if they gathered these societies together they would have all the people. Moreover, these were not field and track con tests, not boxing in the Western style, but genuinely Chinese. They thought these would please those who wanted to conquer the Chinese by using Chinese ways. Morning Lotus went to Number Six this time with his wife's permission . He was going to see the shed-builder, Master Liu, who could dance the Grand Lion and also play the Small Lion. The Lion Dance was the shed-builder's avocation. Whenever several societies of these players in procession came to a bridge, the Grand Lion and the Small Lion had to put on the most dangerous act­ that of ''Drawing Water." Leaping over the railing of the bridge and balancing themselves, they would hang head down over the river. Only the shed-builders who were used to climbing high places were qualified to play the lions. Master Liu was a famous lion player. Morning Lotus went to invite Master Liu. He planned that he would himself offer this "amusement" to the New People's League. He was sure that in this way he could make the authorities take notice of him. He had already arranged with a newspaper reporter to spread the notices. As soon as he reached the gate of Number Six his heart began to pound. When he had entered the courtyard, he wanted to shoot straight as a rocket into the eastern house, into the rooms of the Wen couple. But he put on his mental brake and went toward the small northern room. "Is Master Liu at home?'' he asked gently. Master Liu's height was not great, but because he had strength in every part of his body, he seemed to have a big frame. He was almost forty years old and there were no wrinkles on his · face. His complexion was dark so his teeth and his eyes seemed extra white. A full mouth of white and shining teeth like Master Liu's easily showed him to be a man of health and spirit. He had a round face which shone at every prominence. Hearing someone call him, he came like a leopard out of the room. When he saw that the one 133

standing outside his door was Morning Lotus, he quickly with­ drew his pleasant expression. "Oh, Mr. Kuan." He stood below the steps, standing in the way of the guest, to show that what was to be said must be said face to face, and that there was no need to go into the room. His room was indeed very small but if his guest had not been Morning Lotus, he would surely have invited him in for a cup of tea. Morning Lotus did not take the hint and tried to go on into the room. From those whose positions were higher than his, he would take even a fart for a hint. From those whose positions were lower than his, a hint was taken as a fart. "Have you any business for me, Mr. Kuan?" Master Liu still held himself between his caller and the door. "If-let us go to a teashop. My room is too untidy." He thought that Mr. Kuan would surely now get his meaning and stepped aside a bit. Mr. Kuan acted as though he had not understood Master Liu, and seeing that he had stepped aside slightly, he put out his hand to open the door. Master Liu' s face hardened. "Mr. Kuan, it is not convenient for you to go into my room. What words we have to say, can be said here." Seeing that Master Liu's expression was hostile, Morning Lotus smiled quickly and said in honeyed tones, "Master Liu, I have come to seek your help." "Say what you have to say, Mr. Kuan ." "No"-Morning Lotus made a charming eye-"No, you must first give me your promise." "If you do not make yourself clear, I cannot nod my head." Master Liu spoke with decision. "But-the words to be said are many. We have no place-" Morning Lotus looked all around and felt that this was not a good place for a discussion. "It's good enough. When we rough laborers do our work, three words or two phrases are enough, and we do not choose places." "Master Liu, do you know-" Mr. Kuan again looked around the court and in a very small voice said, "Paoting-Isn't there to be a great parade?" "Oh." Master Liu smiled suddenly. "You have come to ask me to play the 'Lion Dance.' " "Don't speak so loudly. How did you know?" "They have already been here to ask me." "Who?" "From the New People's League." 1 34

"Oh." "I told them I would not perform for the Japanese. My old home is in Paoting. The graves of my ancestors are in Paoting. I cannot celebrate the fall of Paoting." Morning Lotus stood silent. Then he smiled. "Master Liu, if you don't want to help them won't you give me some face? We are old friends." "Even if my father came to ask me I would not perform the Lion Dance for the Japanese." Having said this Master Liu opened his door and went into his room with great dignity and shut the door behind him.

EIPING

Chapter Nineteen

P

SAw a sad and solemn parade. The power of the New People's League was still small, so they had not been able to get people from all classes in Peiping to join in the parade. Those who came were nearly all students. No matter what they studied, no matter how childish and young they were, no matter how obedient, these students knew the con­ cept "Nation"-a concept which their fathers had not known. Hanging their heads, carrying the little paper flags upside down, they walked two and two in the procession. It was as though they were attending the funeral of their parents . From every part of the city they marched toward the Gate of Heavenly Peace. Rey Shuan had received the notice of the parade from his school and torn it into tiny pieces as soon as he had read it, and prepared to resign. On the morning of the parade Rey Feng did not wait until his brother got up but made his toilet and left. He wanted to get to the school early so that he might be more help to Eastern Sun. With great daring he wore his Sun-Yat-Sen suit. Ever since the Japanese came to Peiping, the Sun-Yat-Sen suits along with the copies of The People's Three Principles had been hidden and Rey Feng was one who knew how to watch the way the wind blows. He had not only taken off his dark blue Sun-Yat-Sen suit but had hid it at the very bottom of his chest. Today, however, he was to lead the procession. The one at the head of a procession had to wear a jacket and trousers and not the long gown . Even the Japanese, he felt, would be able to see that his wearing of the Sun­ Yat-Sen suit had nothing to do with revolution. If the Japanese could in this way excuse him, he would be the first among his

1 35

friends to wear this style of suit again, and thus he could boast. Wearing his Sun-Yat-Sen suit he walked to the belly of the Little Sheep Fold and began to practice his voice. "Attention ! March !" His voice was dry and sharp. When he arrived at school, Lan the Eastern Sun had not yet got up and not a single student had arrived. Rey Feng felt uneasy in the empty place. For the first time he began to be afraid. He closed his eyes and thought, "What if, when all the students are gath­ ered in front of the Gate of Heavenly Peace the Japanese should open fire with machine guns." He shuddered, for although by eat­ ing, drinking, playing, and being amused, he had already sur­ rendered to the Japanese, even he now had his fears. The students gradually came in by twos and threes . Rey Feng's fears and fancies began to abate. He went to see Lan the Eastern Sun . Mr. Lan had just awakened and had not yet decided to get up. With his eyes shut he was enjoying his first cigarette. Rey Feng asked, "Are you awake, Mr. Lan?" Mr. Lan was always annoyed if anyone disturbed him in the morning. Although he heard Rey Feng clearly he did not answer. Rey Feng spoke again, "The students are about ready." Eastern Sun became angry. "If they are ready, go. Why do you disturb me?" "The Headmaster has not yet come. There is only one teacher. How can we go?" "If we don't start, we don't start." Mr. Lan flung his cigarette butt on the ground and hid his head in the quilts. Rey Feng stood silent. After a while Mr. Lan's head poked out from among the never­ washed quilts. He did not need to bother about putting on his socks and other clothes for he had them all on. The only dif­ ference between his clothes for day and those for night was a long gown and a quilt. In the daytime he did not cover himself with a quilt. At night he did not wear a long gown. In all other respects there was no difference. He did not discuss anything with Rey Feng but began to give orders, "Get the students together." "Do we start as early as this?" Rey Feng asked. "Early or late, what is the difference?"' "Do we call the roll?" "Of course. So I can punish those who do not come." "Do we carry the school flag?" "Of course." ·

·

"Don't we wait for the Headmaster?" , "Why should we wait for him?" Eastern Sun's right eye rolled up until only the white showed. "Even if he should come, I man� age this parade. I belong to the New People's League." After ringing the bell Lan the Eastern Sun took the school roll books and Rey Feng the school flag and together they went to the playing field. Two school servants, carrying armfuls of varicolored little paper flags, followed them. Rey Feng feared that the students would laugh outright at his Sun-Yat-Sen suit, or even if they did not laugh out loud at him, that they would whisper to each other. But the students standing in twos and threes around the grounds were nearly all hanging their heads. There was no sound. Rey Feng stood the flag against the wall. The students began to form two lines. Their heads were still hanging and they made no sound. Eastern Sun's lips had been trembling, he was afraid the students would make trouble, but when he saw them so quiet his heart re­ laxed. At once he put on a masterful manner. Under his arm he carried the books of the roll. Looking directly at the students, he shouted, "No need to call the roll. I know who have not come. They will be expelled. After they have been ex­ pelled, I will certainly report to, the Japanese and the Japanese will know them to be rebels. They will most certainly be taken to prison. Have you heard?" There was a spot of yellow matter in the corner of Mr. Lan's eye. Waiting for the students' answer he dug the matter out with his finger and wiped it on his gown. The students still made no sound. Mr. Lan was not at all disturbed. Turning his head he told the servants to distribute the little paper flags to the students . The stu­ dents silently and of necessity accepted the flags . When the flags had been distributed, Mr. Lan said to Rey Feng, "Start the march." Rey Feng ran over and taking the school flag unfurled it. As soon as the school flag was unfurled the students lifted their heads and without orders stood immediately at attention, as if to say, "To make us go is enough. There is no need to insult the flag which represents the whole school." Rey Feng offered the flag to the boy at the head of the line. He did not shake his head nor did he speak but it was clear that he would not take the flag. He was about fifteen years old and he had heavy eyebrows in a fat face. There were tears in his eyes and his face was flushed. He breathed with difficulty and held his two hands rigidly by his side. His whole ·

1 37

body showed that no one could force him to take the flag, that he would rather die. Rey Feng saw the determination of the fat student and offered the flag to the one behind him. It was refused in the same manner. It was as though an electric current carried the knowledge all down the line even to the last student at the end, that the two would not take the flag. No one made a sound. All made their faces wooden to show that none of them was willing to take the school flag. Lan the Eastern Sun saw the problem and knew that he could not push the students further. He said to one of the servants, "Carry the flag. I will give you two dollars wine money." The servant sighed and took the flag. With hanging head he stood in front of the line. It was now time for Rey Feng to call the orders. To get into posi­ tion he walked smartly backwards and felt that he had done it in great form. After walking a short distance he stood at attention, snapped his feet together, and from his diaphragm shouted a sharp piercing "Attention!" Then lifting himself onto his toes, with his eyes closed, he thought he was shouting a crisp and · forceful "March," but for some reason the word "march" did not sound. His little face and neck turned red. He was sure that the students would laugh at him, but strangely they did not laugh. The servant carrying the flag did not wait for Rey Feng to open his mouth again. He made a right turn and started off. The students slowly followed him. They went through the school gate into the street. The further they went, the lower they hung their heads. They held the little paper flags close to their sides. They did not dare make a sound or look at the people in the streets. This was the day on which, in the presence of the Japanese, they acknowledged that they were slaves in a conquered country. Under those especially clear skies of Peiping walked the boys and girls of the schools in procession to receive the historical hu­ miliation . They knew they were parading for the enemy. On the little flags in their hands was written, "Ten Thousand Years for Great Japan." This great humiliation made even a child of ten know how to keep silence. The automobiles, the tram cars, the rickshaws, the fronts of the houses and of the shops were all hung with flags and decorated with bunting. Yet Peiping was as quiet as though dead. Rey Feng had come with the idea of having a lively and exciting time. He had not thought that the streets would be quiet like this . He regretted that he had joined the parade. He stole quietly back to see Eastern Sun. Eastern Sun had disappeared. Rey Feng be1 38 ·

came apprehensive. Although the sunlight was beautiful and there were flags everywhere, he suddenly felt frightened. He felt that the sky of Peiping, the earth of Peiping, and the people of Peiping were all frightening today. Rey Feng and the students were the first to reach the Gate of Heavenly Peace. He had expected that there would be happy crowds as at a temple fair, that there would be crowds of peddlers selling candy and fruit, crowds of men and women dressed in gay clothes, shouting, pushing, and bustling around. And perhaps there would be peep shows and magicians, and those playing musical instruments . But before his eyes was the ·exact opposite of what he had ex­ pected. The red walls of the Gate of Heavenly Peace, the marble balustrades in front of the red walls, the old cedars dark and green behind the red walls, gave the whole scene a quiet dignity. A simple platform with a mat-shed above had been built in front of the marble bridge, for the meeting. Although it was draped with large and small flags it was markedly without distinction. The gate tower and the marble bridge were eternal but this mat-shed could have been blo�n away with a gust of wind and left not a shadow. No one was on the platform. Rey Feng looked at the empty platform and looked at the gate tower and quickly hung his head. He felt afraid. It seemed that each of the black portholes of the gate tower in the strong sunlight slowly winked at him. Who could guarantee there were no machine guns in them? He hoped very much that more people would come, to fill the square and give him courage. Gradually from the east and from the west and from the south, the students came. There was no music. Rank upon rank they came quietly and stood. More and more students came. Although there were now many people they still did not fill the square in front of the Gate of Heavenly Peace. The more people there were the redder the walls became and the higher the gate tower. The people and the banners seemed no more than feathers. The Gate of Heavenly Peace was a mountain majestic and beautiful. Police and gendarmes gathered but they had no martial air. Slouching shamefacedly they stood beside the students . No one dared to talk. The majesty of the Gate of Heavenly Peace silenced them and shamed them. How beau­ tiful the walls and towers of the city ! How shameful the people! The red ribbon which would show that he was one of the man­ agers of the parade was still in Eastern Sun's pocket. He had not dared pin it to his coat. And he was standing about a quarter of a mile from the students. He rose to his tiptoes frequently to look 1 39

at the platform, anxiously awaiting the arrival of his superiors in the League, and of the Japanese. The quiet and majesty of the Gate of Heavenly Peace and the silence of the students made him afraid. He felt that with so many people together and yet so quiet, there would surely be trouble. The students had stood until their feet were numb and still there was no sign of any movement on the platform. Pair on pair of little eyes watched the mat-shed on which were hung the Japanese flag and another flag, one of five colors, which they did not recognize, for it had once been the flag of the Republic of China, before they were born . They did not know what those five stripes meant. Was this the flag of a conquered country? Who knew. They dared not ask their teachers. The teachers were all standing with their heads bent and tears in their eyes. The students could only also hang their heads and with their hands lightly tear to pieces those paper flags on which was written, "China and Japan Are Brother Countries." The opening of the meeting was dramatic . On the platform, the loud-speaker sounded suddenly, playing a sorrowful and melancholy Japanese composition. Suddenly Japanese soldiers carrying guns surrounded the platform. Suddenly on the platform were many people. Some of them were Chinese in long gowns and some were Japanese in uniform. Suddenly people with red badges, including Lan the Eastern Sun, were everywhere as though they had sprung out of the earth . But i n these majestic surroundings this effort a t the dramatic was lost as the voice of an infant would be shouting to the ocean. The loud-speaker did not fill the space with sound. It was as though someone at a distance were chanting the sutras, or weeping. The soldiers between the Gate of Heavenly Peace and the great Front Gate of the city were so small they looked like small black pegs. In front of the great tower of the Front Gate all ugly things lost their power to frighten. On the platform those in long gowns and those in uniform all looked like puppets and not like anything alive. One of those in a long gown stood up and facing the loud­ speaker began to talk. The voice coming from the instrument struck the red walls and was spread over the boundless space like a muffled cough. The students standing with heads hanging could hear noth­ ing nor did they want to hear. They called those standing in long gowns with the Japanese, traitors. The man in the long gown sat down. A Japanese in uniform stood up. Eastern Sun and his friends had already placed them1 40

selves in key positions so they could lead the students. They clapped with all their might. But the sound of their palms meeting palms was as though sparrows were flapping their wings in the Gobi desert. This was a signal for the students to clap. The students with hang­ ing heads did not move. One after the other the little Japanese wooden figures on the platform sent their humming toward the great gate. All the Japa­ nese felt that it would have been better to have swept all in front of the stage with machine guns. They also felt as if they had been made fools of in some way. On the towers and under the marble bridge were ambushed soldiers and machine guns. But the great gate and· the stud en ts seemed not to understand the meaning of these preparations. Silence and indifference seemed also to be military weapons. Those wearing red ribbons on the platform and among the crowd shouted slogans. Their mouths were opened wide and their hands were lifted high but the sound of their voices was small and very indistinct. The students still made no sound. The puppets on the platform came down and disappeared. Those wearing the badges carried baskets of Hirohito candy and gave it out, one to each student. The Hirohito candy and the little paper banners were left by the students on the ground.

Chapter Twenty

J VJ became

was held for Lan the Eastern Sun and he the precious friend of Morning Lotus. When Eastern Sun had first come to Peiping he had thought that to go to the Eastern Market Bazaar to eat meat dumplings and drink millet gruel was luxury; after a few years he began to know that the foreign food in the Railway Restaurant at the Chien Men Station and the Chinese food at the Tung Hsing Lou was food that could be talked about. Today he learned that food in restaurants-no matter how well prepared-could not be called part of the art of living. On Mr. Kuan's table even a dish of salt vegetable had been pre­ pared with care; even the color of a cup of tea and the fragrance of a goblet of wine, and the cups themselves, were all matters for the connoisseur. Beside the comfort of the wine and food Eastern Sun felt a gentle warm breeze like the gentle breeze over the blossoming peach trees. It came from Mr. Kuan's eyes, nose, mouth, eyebrows, and throat. It blew on his face and was not cold, and it made 141 GREAT DINNER PARTY

Eastern Sun's heart itch. Eastern Sun had always considered him­ self an oppressed person because his manuscripts had always been returned. Today, from the moment he entered the gate, Mr. Kuan had called him poet; and after drinking a few cups of wine, Mr. Kuan had asked him to recite his poems. They were all short and the recitation did not take much time. He finished the reading and Mr. Kuan, with his mouth wide open, clapped. At last Mr. Kuan said most seriously, "Good, exceedingly good. Good indeed." Poet Lan smiled so much that his eyes were lost in their sockets and did not roll do�n again for a long time. "Kaodee' � -Mr. Kuan affectionately called to his elder daughter­ "Aren't you interested in the new literature? Why not study with Eastern Sun?" Immediately he said to Eastern Sun, '�Eastern Sun, will you take a female pupil?" Eastern Sun did not answer. He thought of women day and night but in their presence he found it difficult to speak. Kaodee dropped her head. She did not like this thin, dirty, and ugly "poet." Mr. Kuan seeing that his daughter would not answer took up the small porcelain wine pot and poured wine for his guest. Rey Feng and his fat wife, although feeling threatened, were still in good spirits. Although Lan the Eastern Sun had been theirs originally and now it looked as though Mr. Kuan had stolen him, Big Red Pepper thought of ways to keep Rey Feng and his wife from feeling slighted. Also the fat lady had a special right to be happy, for Eastern Sun looked constantly at her. She felt that she had defeated the two young ladies of the Kuan family and that was worthy of pride. In fact, whenever Eastern Sun looked at a woman he thought of practical things. Naturally he felt that this fat matron was more lovable than the young maidens. Meydee was especially skilled in making fun of toads. She smiled winningly and said to Eastern Sun, "Tell me, how does one become a writer?" Then without waiting for an answer, she said, "Is not brushing one's teeth and not washing one's face necessary for writ-­ ing good essays?" Eastern Sun's face flushed. Kaodee and Peach Blossom laughed. Mr. Kuan in a composed manner took up the wine cup and nodded to Eastern Sun. "Come, we will find Meydee a cup, and we also will drink with her. She is after all only a girl." After the meal was over, everyone begged Peach Blossom to sing .. Peach Blossom hated to show her origin to new friends. She said that she had a cold and was not in voice. Then to redeem this dis1 42

courtesy she suggested that they play mah-jongg. Lan the Eastern Sun was a miser but he was now eight-parts drunk and seeing all these women he became bold. "I'll play. We'll settle for sixteen rounds." Rey Feng and his wife did not dare to enter the contest for they had already experienced the Kuan family game. Big Red Pepper, Peach Blossom, Meydee, and Eastern Sun started to play. Mr. Kuan was slightly intoxicated. He took two of the thin­ skinned Peiping pears with stars sprinkled on their golden skins, and nodded to Rey Feng. Rey Feng took a pear from him and following his host went into the courtyard. "Rey Feng, tell me the truth," Mr. Kuan said affectionately. "You must not be ceremonious. Is there anything, in my treatment of my guest, t at I have left out?" Rey Feng spat the pear seeds out quickly and said, ''I'll not tell a lie. You were perfect." Mr. Kuan smiled but sighed immediately. He said, "Yet the rhythm of my fortune does not seem to be good." Rey Feng hearing this was silent and started quickly toward the house. He did not like to be despondent. To him the most shame­ less happiness was better than the most sublime sorrow. In the room, Lan the Eastern Sun's game was not going well . He threw the tiles sharply on the table and cursed the dice. He complained that the others played too slowly and that the light was not right. He found fault with the tea, that it was not hot enough . Rey Feng, seeing that things were not happy, lightly pulled his fat wife's hand. The two did not dare say goodbye but quietly stole out. Mr. Kuan accompanied them to the street gate. On the next day, Rey Feng thought that as soon as he arrived at school he would half-jokingly mention Miss Kaodee to Eastern Sun and hint that if he really would consider it, Rey Feng would like to be go-between for a match. In this way with one arrow he would shoot down two eagles and he would have both Lan and Kuan in his hands. When he saw Eastern Sun, Rey Feng was not so optimistic. The color of Eastern Sun's face was greenish grey and the whole face worked as if it would split. Eastern Sun spoke first. "How much did that wine, food, and tea at the Kuan's cost last evening?" Rey Feng knew that most likely this question was ill-inten­ tioned, but he took it on its face value and answered, "Oh, it must have cost over twenty dollars." "They won eighty from me, enough to eat in that way four times. How much did they share with you?" 143

"Share with me?" Rey Feng's little eyes were wide open. "Of course. Otherwise, why, since I had no relation with them, did you introduce us?" Even Rey Feng could not accept this heartless and dirty attack. The veins on his little dry head began to beat. "You are joking." "I never joke. I lost money." "Can there be mah-jongg without losing and winning? If you are afraid of losing you should not sit at the gaming table." "Listen to me." All of Eastern Sun's yellow teeth were bared, like a dog about to fight. "I am now the dean. Before long I will be the headmaster. Your position is in the palm of my hand. I tell you, unless you repay me that eighty dollars, I will fire you." Rey Feng smiled. He was after all a Peiping man, and even the women of Peiping were not like Lan the Eastern Sun, seeing only one side of a question . "Mr. Lan, you had your time of happy fingers. But to ask me to pay for it-ha, where under the sky is there as good a bargain as that? If there were such, I would long since have gone after it." His words were smart but he had no money. There had been no payment of salaries for three months . Also he knew that Lan the Eastern Sun loved money as he loved his life. As he thought of this he smiled again and said, "All right. It was my fault. I should not have taken you to the Kuan home. But I had good intentions. I wanted to introduce you to Miss Kaodee. Who could foresee that you would lose all that money?" "Don't waste words . Give me the I_Iloney." Eastern Sun's prose, compared to his poetry, was concise and clear. Rey Feng remembered an anecdote about Eastern Sun. It was said that he had once bought some combs and handkerchiefs for his girl friend, and when they had quarreled, he had written a list of the things and had demanded them back. Now Rey Feng be­ lieved this anecdote. At the same time he was distressed. He had no money and Eastern Sun was not reasonable. The flesh on the face of Eastern Sun quivered like that of a poisoned lizard. "I tell you, if you do not give me money, I will inform on you, tell what you told me yourself-that your younger brother has escaped from Peiping and joined the guerillas." Rey Feng's face paled. He was full of remorse that he had told Eastern Sun about the affairs of his home. Telling Eastern Sun about the Third's escape from Peiping had been merely to show intimacy. He had come face to face with the Japanese gendarmes and their electric chair and their whips. Suddenly he perspired all over. 1 44

"What about it? Will you give me the money or will you wait for me to inform?" Rey Feng knew that even if he gave Lan the eighty dollars the matter would still not be at an end. Whenever Eastern Sun wanted to, he still could inform. "How about it?" Eastern Sun came forward and faced Rey Feng. Rey Feng was cornered like a mangy dog. There was no way but to show his teeth . He struck out with his fist as if he had no control of it. He did not know where the fist did strike. All he knew was that he struck something and that Eastern Sun fell im­ mediately on the ground . He had not thought that Eastern Sun could take so little. He hastened to look down. Eastern Sun's eyes were closed and he did not move. He did not dare to look again or sfop to feel if Eastern Sun had any breath in him. He ran away as quickly as he could . Never had he run that fast. By the time he had reached the gate of his home, he had no breath left. Leaning against the gate he shut his eyes and big drops of sweat fell pitapat on the ground. He wiped the sweat from his face with his sleeve and walked into the courtyard. He went straight to his eldest brother's room. "Eldest Brother! " Rey Shuan was lying o n his bed. Never during the last five years had Rey Feng addressed his brother in so warm a way. Rey Shuan rose quickly. "What is it, Second?" The Second squeezed the words out between his teeth, "I've killed a man." Rey Shuan stood up and asked in a low voice, "What happened? Sit down and tell me." He poured out a cup of not very warm water for his brother. The Second drank it down in one gulp. Rey Shuan's lack of hurry or confusion and the sweetness · of the water soothed the Second's nerves. He sat down . Quickly and concisely he told of the quarrel with Eastern Sun. When his story was finished he took out his cigarettes with trembling hands and lighted one. Rey Shuan said, "Perhaps he had only fainted. How can one die as easily as that?" The Second drew a deep breath of smoke. "I don't know." "That's easy. Let's telephone and ask. Whoever answers the telephone will be sure to tell whether he is dead or not." "If he is not dead we will have to talk with him." "If he has not died, the man who answers the telephone will say, 'Please wait a while.' Then you can hang up." "That's so." The Second suddenly smiled. 1 45

"Shall I go or will you?" the elder brother asked. "Let's go together." The Second did not want to leave his elder brother. Among other reasons, he did not want his wife to know about this business. He now saw clearly that he could say anything to his brother but with his wife he sometimes had to keep his mouth shut. They went out together to find a telephone. When the call was put through they learned that Mr. Lan had just gone out. The Second said to his brother, "That will not be the end of the matter, will it?" "Let's wait and see." "That will not do. I think that no matter what happens, I had better look quickly for another job. I can't go to the school again . If that Lan fellow does not see me, he may forget this business ." "Perhaps." Rey Shuan understood the Second's lack of courage. They had walked, when returning, as far as the gate of Number Seven and stood still. There was no color in the Second's face. Three people were walking from the Kuan gate toward their gate. One of them was in uniform. Rey Feng wanted to turn and run but was stopped by his brother. "That is Sergeant Pai. They are probably taking the census of the families." The Second was frightened. "I must get out of their way. Per­ haps the men in plain clothes are members of the secret police." Not waiting for Rey Shuan to speak again, he ran back into the belly of the gourd . Rey Shuan walked home alone. He reached his gate just as the policeman was knocking at it. He smiled and said, "What is it, Sergeant Pai?" "Taking the census, nothing else," Sergeant Pai said in an espe­ cially gentle tone. He did not want those who lived in the houses to be frightened. Rey Shuan looked at the two men in plain clothes . They indeed looked like secret police. Sergeant Pai explained to the men in plain clothes, "This is the family that has been here the longest." As he spoke he opened the census book and asked Rey Shuan, "Except that the Third has died, has there been any change in the family?" Rey Shuan was very grateful to Sergeant Pai but he did not dare show his gratitude. He answered quickly, "No change." "There are no relatives or friends living here now?" Sergeant Pai asked officially in routine language. "None," Rey Shuan answered. ·

1 46

Sergeant Pai turned to the plain-clothes men. "What do you think? Shall we go in?" At this moment Old Man Chi came out. Rey Shuan was very much afraid that his grandfather would give away the story of Old Three. Fortunately, the two plain-clothes men, seeing the old man's white hair and white whiskers, seemed to be easier in their minds. They seemed to hesitate about whether to go in or not to go in. Sergeant Pai seized the opportunity and smilingly led them toward Number Six. Rey Shuan and his grandfather were turning into their gate when one of the plain-clothes men came back and said arrogantly, "Listen, according to this census we will issue the identification passes which prove that you are reliable. At any time, no telling when, perhaps in the middle of the night, we will make sampling searches. If the number of people is not as in this book, there will be punishment, most severe punishment. Remember that." Rey Shuan pushed a whole ball of fire into his heart and an1wered not a word . The old man's lifetime motto had been : "Wealth through amia­ bility." Very amiably he accepted the lecture of the plain-clothes man and with a smile said, "Yes, yes, you work hard. Won' t you come in and drink a cup of tea?" The plain-clothes man said no more but walked arrogantly away. The old man, watching his back, still smiled as if his humility was limitless. Rey Shuan could not scold his grandfather. Apples are a fragrant and beautiful fruit but when rotten are not as useful as a fresh cucumber, hard and durable. China has a long and deep . culture, but within it something rotten . That rottenness was shown when a kind and good old man, seventy-five years old, could smile and bow profoundly to a man in the secret service. Old Man Chi shut the gate and asked Rey Shuan, "What did Sergeant Pai say? Did he ask about Little Three?" "Old Three is counted as dead," Rey Shuan said in a low voice.

Chapter Twenty-one ?'HE DAYS grew steadily colder and colder. The Chi family had \..! been in the habit of buying in May or June, when the weather was warm and there was no rain, one or two mule-cart loads of coal dust. They would then have two wheelbarrow loads of yellow clay dumped into the courtyard and would call two "blackmen" to roll the coal balls for them. Enough coal balls would be made for the 1 47

winter's use. This year, since the gates of the city were at times closed and at times open, there was no way to fetch in the coal. Besides, while the fighting had gone on it was as though all had forgotten there would be this need. Only when Old Man Chi could not sleep at night did he remember. The coal rose in price each day. The north wind blew more often . The Japanese had stopped the coal coming from Tang Shan. The coal mines in the Western Hills had ceased work because of the fighting between the Japanese and the guerillas . In the Chi family, only in the old man's room and in that of Tien Yiu had the kangs-the brick beds-been kept. In the other rooms, they had been tom away and modem beds installed. Old Man Chi was fond of hi� kang. Keeping the kang showed that he was not one who "chased after the new and despised the old"; the brick bed was an old and tested institution and had its good points. Even though the old man's room faced south and was full of sunshine, and the walls were thick and kept out the wind, · by the latter part of a winter night the old man would feel as though there were drafts on his temples and shoulders . The old man would curl his body like a cat and though covered with a thick quilt he still was not warm. Only . if in the fire hole of the brick bed was pushed a small brazier of hot coals could he sleep comfortably the whole night. Mrs. Tien Yiu did not like to sleep on a heated brick bed. She kept the brick bed because she knew that the grandchildren, as they reached the age of three or four, would be assigned to sleep in their grandmother's room, and a brick bed was more convenient-the surface of the brick bed was wide and the children could not easily roll off, and caring for them in the night was easier. Her room was in the south house, facing north, and so was the coldest and dampest in the compound . During the great cold sometimes the water bottles broke from freezing. Because of this, although she did not like a warm brick bed, she must occasionally heat it to drive away the damp and cold. If he had had the money, Rey Shuan would have paid the high prices and bought enough of the stored coal for the winter. But neither he nor Rey Feng had been paid for several months and the income of his father was slight. Rey Shuan suddenly saw a long way ahead. There was no coal today. How could one be sure that tomorrow there would not be a shortage of grain? In the past he had thought that the bitterness of the conquered was in the sword or the bullet. He now began to be aware that death might not be a sudden blow. The whole family 1 48

could die of cold and hunger. He repudiated all the reasons he had given himself for not leaving Peiping. He was extremely depressed. He even talked it over in the eve­ ning with Yun Mei. In the past he had never discussed domestic affairs but now he even talked with his wife about his duty to leave Peiping. Yun Mei was not willing that he should go because of these things. "I think there will be coal in time. There is no use worrying. And to starve-I don't believe a person can starve that easily. If you go away, it is certain that the Second cannot support this family. I would be willing to do it but I have not the ability to earn money. Don't worry and think of so many things . A day passed is a day passed. Why go out of the way to find worries?" Her words showed no ideals or imagination but each word had weight and gave Rey Shuan no chance for argument. Yes, what­ ever happened he would not be able to take the whole family out of Peiping. So with the whole family-old and young-in Peiping he himself could not go. This was as obvious as that two and two make four. Rey Shuan could only hope that the National Army would be victorious and quickly win Peiping back again. But Taiyuan-the capital of Shensi province-fell. The big bal­ loon was again raised. OF TAIYU N . The students had again to parade. Rey Shuan had thought to resign, but since Rey Feng did not dare return to his school, Rey Shuan had gone as usual to his classes. He could not let the old people see both brothers idle at home. In these last few days the eyebrows of Rey Feng were constantly knit. His fat wife had not spoken to him for three or four days. For the first two or three days she had believed his boastings that he had another and better job. But since they came back from the Kuans she had not spoken to him. The purpose of their visit .to the Kuan family had been to tell Mr. and Mrs. Kuan about that matter with Eastern Sun, and to get them to help Rey Feng find a job. If Rey Feng could find a job they would like to move to the Kuan home to live and avoid being involved by Old Three. Rey Feng had thought that the Kuan couple would certainly be able to help him . And besides, his quarrel with Eastern Sun had resulted because the Kuans had won his money. Mr. Kuan was polite but he wanted to leave the action to Big Red Pepper. She was wearing a purple· silk padded coat. There was heavy lipstick on her mouth. Her hair had just been

"CELEBRATE THE FALL

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A

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given a permanent. This time it resembled the tail of a broadtail sheep. Her manner was more expansive than they had ever seen before. Each of the freckles on her face showed arrogance and satisfaction. The efforts of the military officer who had been in the Kuan home when Wang the Third had fought, had now met with suc­ cess . It would soon be announced that he was the Chief of the Secret Service of the City Police Force. His name was Barren Hill and his surname Li. He had had many wives, most of whom had been prostitutes . He decided, now that he had an official post, to demobilize the prostitutes and marry a good girl from a regular family, and moreover, an educated girl. He took a fancy to Meydee, but Big Red Pepper was not willing to sell Meydee so cheaply. She would rather release Kaodee. Barren Hill nodded his consent. Although Kaodee was not so beautiful, she was really a young lady, and one who had studied in schools. When it should be necessary, he could again get a prostitute or two, making Kaodee the empress among imperial concubines. He did not anticipate many problems . The daughters of Big Red Pepper could not be given for nothing to anyone. Barren Hill promised to help her get the job as Director of the Bureau for the Inspection of the Prostitutes. This bureau, after the removal of the capital to Nanking, had been quite unim­ portant. Now, however, to comfort the Japanese soldiers and to prevent the spread of venereal disease, this bureau was being re­ vived. Barren Hill saw that Big Red Pepper had the ability for the job and that with her, the budget of the department wquld be increased. Moreover, stricter inspection would bring in no little extra money. Barren Hill knew that this bureau could become a "nice fat little office." If he could place this "fat office" in the hands of his mother-in-law-to-be, he could bully Kaodee from time to time and also get squeeze money from his mother-in-law. When Big Red Pepper gave him money, he would be nice to Kaodee for a day or two. After he had made these plans he began to work seriously for Big Red Pepper. According to the la test news, the business was about to be successful. Getting up, going to bed, walking, going to the latrine, always in the mouth of Big Red Pepper was the word "Director." This word was like a piece of candy stuck between her lips . Whenever she said it, her mouth was full of saliva. She was elated, proud. She resented that she could not in one leap jump to the roof and shout in a loud voice, "I am Director of a Bureau." She answered her husband with a "hung" or with a "ha" and paid no attention to him. She tried to get her elder daughter to accept the match. She 1 50

even stopped challenging Peach Blossom to battle : a great person does not contend with a small person. Often she said to herself, "In season and out of season, I will inspect. If they are afraid of pain or trouble they will give money, give money." As she said this she would nod her head so that sev­ eral of her hairpins would drop out. Rudely she told Rey Feng, "We will soon have a 'happy occasion,' and will need the small room for our own use. I don't think Lan the Eastern Sun is so bad. You quarreled with him because of us? I am really sorry, but we have no responsibility for your troubles . Have we?" This last . ques­ tion was addressed to Morning Lotus. Morning Lotus nodded his head slightly, saying nothing. Rey Feng and his wife stood up quickly, and like two dogs that had been beaten, went back home. What made the two even more miserable was that Eastern Sun came to visit the Kuan family as usual, and was received well. Big Red Pepper returned forty dollars to Eastern Sun : "When we play mah-jongg we always discount our gains by half. In our haste the other day, we made a mistake and took too much. I am truly sorry." Eastern Sun became generous also and bought half a pound of peanuts for the two sisters. Big Red Pepper commented on this little gift. "Eastern Sun, you have done right. In times like these a young man should know that money is good. He should be economical, to save for his wed­ ding. The gift is small, but it is the giver that counts. Even if you gave them half a peanut only, it would still show your good heart. If you had spent a lot of money and bought them expensive but useless things, I would not value you." When Eastern Sun heard this he showed all his yellow teeth . Because they had both eaten a few of his peanuts, .h e regarded himself as the beloved of the two sisters . These events were learned through Peach Blossom, who whis­ pered gossip outside the gate to the fat wife of Rey Feng. The fat woman was angry enough to faint and all her fat flesh quivered . She said nothing, but secretly packed a small bundle and re­ turned to her mother's home.

Chapter Twenty-two '°?'HE PARADE in celebration of the fall of Taiyuan gave Eastern � Sun great self-satisfaction; the number of people attending had been much larger than that at the celebration of the fall of Paoting and the program had been much better; but he had not 1 51

been completely successful, the Japanese were not satisfied with the opera sung in Central Park. Neither Eastern Sun nor his friends with whom he discussed the program knew anything about opera. This group of men had lived for a few years only in Peiping and knew that Peiping opera was good but did not know why. They brought the famous actors and amateurs out by force but had not known which operas to choose. Their greatest mistake was that they had chosen too few with "bedroom" scenes. The Japanese had hoped to see sex plays and the group had not provided them. Many sex plays had been banned for over thirty years and the group did not even know their names nor which actors could play them. Eastern Sun thought that if they had had among them a Morn­ ing Lotus they would not have found themselves in this predica­ ment. He again visited Morning Lotus . He had no intention of introducing him into the New People's League for he was afraid that Morning Lotus would get ahead of him. He wanted only to talk more with him and get from his talk what he needed. When he arrived, a group of children were gathered around the Kuan gate and beggars were pasting huge red posters on the sides of the gate. As they pasted they shouted, "We have come to report good news. May your Honorable Palace see ever higher pro­ motions." Big Red Pepper's appointment as Director of the Bureau had been announced. To please his wife, Kuan the Morning Lotus had written the two posters of "happy announcement" and had sent Fourth Master Li to find two beggars to announce the good tidings before his gate in the traditional way. When Morning Lotus had graduated from the upper primary school there had been still those who came to the gates to announce "happy news," but after the establishment of the republic, this custom had gradually died out in Peiping. Morning Lotus had decided today to bring it to life again. The beggars had asked three times for tips and Morning Lotus had paid them three times. He had given them very little each time in order to make them ask again and so make more noise at the gate. When Eastern Sun arrived, the beggars had come for the fourth time. Mr. Kuan already had the twenty cents in his hand, but he had not come out because he wanted them to shout a few more times. He had hoped that all in the Little Sheep Fold would come to his gate, but he saw that outside his gate was only a crowd of little children. The biggest was Cheng Chang Shun. His "happy" posters were well written. Though Big Red Pepper had been appointed director of the prostitutes' inspection bureau, 1 52

Mr. Kuan was unwilling to post the word "prostitutes" outside his gate, but he did not know how to say prostitute in the classical language. He had thought a long time and had had an inspiration . He had written, "The Honorable Palace of the Lady Kuan who has been Gloriously Appointed the Director of the Bureau of the Proper Ladies." Eastern Sun twisted his head and looked at the posters. He could not understand what was meant by the "Proper Ladies." Just then, Mr. Kuan, waving his two arms as if to chase away chickens, rushed out of the gate. From his mouth issued a stream of words : "Go, go, go, get out of here. You have deafened me with your shouts." He then threw the twenty-cent piece, already hot from being held so long, onto the ground . "I'll certainly not add a cent, do you hear?" When he had finished speaking he looked around to let the beggars know that this was the last time. They picked up the twenty-cent piece and walked slowly away. Morning Lotus saw Eastern Sun and quickly said, "Please come in, please come in." The two walked into the courtyard and heard the rustle made by the paper in the windows when they shake. Morning Lotus hastened to say, "The Lady coughs. The Lady is the Director of a Bureau. Her cough is now more explosive." Big Red Pepper sat in the exact center of the parlor. Coughing, laughing, talking, she made the rafters ring. Even the sound of her breathing was as though it came out of a loud-speaker. She did not rise when she saw Eastern Sun, and gave him only a stingy nod, and then pointed with a heavily powdered hand to a chair. So great was her presence, it was already impossible for her daugh­ ters to call her Mother or for her husband to call her Wife. They had to call her Director. Eastern Sun sat down. Big Red Pepper managed her throat as if she were too indolent to make a sound and yet there was added authority. The sound was deep and heavy. She said, "Come, pour tea." . Eastern Sun had never before seen a woman like this. She was no longer the same person she had been two days ago. Now she was herself and the Director of Bureau in one. Morning Lotus saved Eastern Sun. He said to Big Red Pepper, "Reporting to the Madame Director of Bureau." Big Red Pepper as if angry but not angry, as if laughing but not laughing, said, "Madame Director of Bureau? Simply-Director of Bureau." 1 53

Morning Lotus smiled and said sweetly, "Reporting to the Di­ rector of Bureau, Eastern Sun has come to congratulate you ." Eastern Sun, his face working, stood up. He still had not found the words to say. He opened his mouth and showed a few big yellow teeth. "I am not worthy, I am not worthy." Big Red Pepper still did not stand. Like the Empress Dowager she sat on her throne and received the greetings of her ministers . Just at this moment there was a sound in the courtyard, a sharp and silly sound, "Congratula.t ions, congratulations ! " "Rey Feng," Morning Lotus said i n a low voice. "Invite him in." Although Big Red Pepper despised Rey Feng she could not refuse his congratulations. To refuse congratulations would be unlucky. Morning Lotus WE'.nt to the door of the room to greet him. "We · have put you to trouble, to trouble." Rey Feng, wearing his best gown and a short black topcoat, looked as though he were on his way to attend a banquet. When he had almost reached the steps in front of the room he stopped and let his wife go ahead. This was a foreign custom he had learned from the movies. The fat wife was also dressed in her very best clothes. Her face was covered with extra pride, making her fat face fatter. She held her head high and swaying her fat hips, she mounted step by step. In her hands she carried a gift parcel . When Big Red Pepper saw the gift basket, bright red and fresh green, she stood up in spite of herself. In the matter of ceremony Rey Feng was ten-parts better than Eastern Sun. He was a Peiping man and therefore he loved cere­ mony. He said his congratulations warmly and bowed deeply, and then taking the gift basket from his wife, he placed it on the table. That basket was both cheap and vulgar, yet set on the table it gave the room a festive air. When he had finished his ceremonial congratulations, in warm tones he greeted Lan the Eastern Sun. "Brother Eastern Sun, you are here also. I have been too busy these last few days to go to school. How are you?" Eastern Sun's face worked and he ran his eyes up into his fore­ head and back down again. In his heart he said, "Sooner or later I will put you in prison, young fellow. You do not need to match teeth and lips with me." By this time the fat wife had sat down beside Big Red Pepper and she had already told Big Red Pepper that Rey Feng had been appointed Chief of the Business Section of the Commission of Education of the City Government. She really had not come to 1 54

congratulate Big Red Pepper, she had really come to get her re­ venge. Her husband was now a section chief. "What?" the Kuan couple said together. Big Red Pepper was a bit unhappy that her husband's voice and hers had not shown any first and second. She said, "Let me speak first, if you please." Morning Lotus quickly backed a couple of short steps and smil­ ingly answered, "Of course, Director. I beg your pardon." "What?" Big Red Pepper stood up and stretched out her big hand loaded with gold rings. "You came to congratulate me, Sec­ tion Chief Chi? You'll do. You came in and did not say a word . You could hold your news." As she spoke she held Rey Feng's hands tightly until the gold rings cut his fingers . Loosening his hand she shouted for the servant, "Bring the brandy from the English Palace.:' Then she said to the company, "We will drink a cup to congratulate the Section Chief and the wife of the Sec­ tion Chief." "No," said Rey Feng. "No, we will first congratulate the Di­ rector of the Bureau and the Lord of the Director of the Bureau." "We will all together congratulate each other," Morning Lotus said with great charm. Eastern Sun stood there, his face growing steadily more green. He was jealous . He was sorry that he had not sent Rey Feng to prison several days ago. Now all he could do was to become friends with him again . He hated Rey Feng but he could not hate the Section Chief. The wine came and all clinked their glasses-foreign style. Rey Feng began to tell the story of the way he got the position of section chief. ''I must thank my lady. Her second uncle is the sworn brother of the newly appointed Commissioner of Educa­ tion. Without her second uncle to advise him, the new Commis. sioner would not have dared accept the position. Second Uncle was once the Commissioner of Education himself. It just happened that my wife was visiting at her home." Lan the Eastern Sun wanted to take his leave. The air in the room was thicker than he could stand. Big Red Pepper would not let him go. "Go? You are too difficult. Should we not be gay on this day? If you really want to go, I will not keep you, but you must wait until I have finished what I have to say." She stood up, one hand on her heart and the other on the table, and as if acting on the stage said, "Eastern Sun, you are in the New People's League. Rey Feng, you are in the Commission of Education. I? I have been given a small, small position as director of a bureau. And what about Morning Lotus? Before long he also will have a 1 55

position. We have started out well at this time of changing dynasties. We must be united and help each other so that we can open the new world smoothly to us, give every one in our families something to do, get power and money. Of course the Japanese will take the first chances. We, and even our uncles and aunts, should come in for the second lot. We must combine to build up power, so that all, even the Japanese, will have to listen to us and give us the best things ." Rey Feng bent his head to his shoulder and listened very care­ fully. When Big Red Pepper spoke of such good things, his lips moved with hers. Morning Lotus stood up in a very correct manner, and nodded with each sentence she spoke. When Big Red Pepper finished her speech, he led the clapping, and then very sweetly asked Mrs. Chi to make a speech . The fat face of the fat lady flushed, and holding the sides of the chair with both hands she refused to get up. Her heart was very happy but she could find no words . The two hands of Morning Lotus clapped quickly and lightly. "Please, Lady of the Section Chief, please, please." The fat lady rose, and Morning Lotus clapped more loudly. She was, however, not preparing to make a speech. Smiling she said to Rey Feng, "Let's go home. We have such a lot to do." Big Red Pepper said at once, "That's right. We must celebrate properly another day. Today we are all busy." Section Chief Chi and his wife went out. Director of the Bureau Kuan and her husband accompanied them to the gate. When they had almost reached the outer gate, Big Red Pepper remembered, "I say, Section Chief Chi, if you want to move over, we will all welcome you, the whole family." The fat lady found words to say, "We will soon move to my second uncle's place to live. That is near the Commission of Edu­ cation and the houses are good. Also-" She wanted to say, "And here the family, the grandfather, the father and mother, are all country bumpkins, not qualified to be the senior generations for a section chief." But she looked at Rey Feng and thought better. Her husband was a section chief, she must leave him with some face. When Rey Shuan first heard the news he thought of nothing but relief. No matter what Rey Feng was going to do he was going away. If only he did not come back to be a nuisance-thank Heaven and thank Earth. After a while Rey Shuan changed his mind. He could not in this 1 56

way, without saying a word, let the Second and his wife go. He was the eldest brother; he should tell his younger brother that Chi Rey Shuan could not have a brother working for the Japanese. The Third had escaped from Peiping to do his duty to his country. How could the accounts be balanced if the Second stayed at home to be an official for the Japanese? He waited in the courtyard for the Second. The pomegranate trees and the oleanders had been taken to the eastern house for the winter and the courtyard seemed bare. The plants under the southern wall had withered . In past years they would have been covered long ago with ashes from the stove, and upturned flower pots placed over them. But this year, although the old man tried often to calm the family, saying that the troubles would soon be over, he himself did not ten parts believe his own words. The fact that he did not cover the flowers was proof. There were no leaves on the two date trees and a pair of swallows was squatting under one of them. A few spears of dried grass on the ridge of the house waved in the light breeze. When Rey Shuan saw Rey Feng come in through the gate he called him to his own room. He asked immediately, "Old Second, have you decided to accept the post?" The Second pulled at his coat collar and answered calmly, "Of course, the position of Section Chief cannot be picked up on a street." "Do you know or do you not know that this makes you a traitor?" Rey Shuan's eyes pierced the Second. Rey Feng said one word : "Traitor-" He had not considered this aspect. Slowly he said, "Sec tion Chief, traitor-the two terms have no connection whatsoever." "That would be true in times of peace," Rey Shuan pointed out to his brother. "In times like these we must think very clearly before doing anything, because Peiping has been occupied by the Japanese." The Second decided to counterattack. "If you talk that way, isn't Father, selling Japanese goods in his shop, also a traitor, and you teaching school?" Rey Shuan smiled and said, "That is really not the same. If because of the necessity to support the whole family a person can­ not escape from the city, and has no intention to serve the Japa­ nese, he cannot be called a traitor. How many people are there in Peiping? They cannot all at once all run away and leave the city empty. Those who cannot leave must earn money for living. This cannot be helped. But people who make a plan willingly to kow­ tow to the Japanese, such as Eastern Sun, Morning Lotus, and you, 1 57

cannot easily be called anything but traitors. You could leave the city and you should leave, but you are not willing to. If you are not willing to go away, you should steadily and quietly do your work. Then you would have only the mistake of having been able to go-and of not having gone-on your conscience, but you would not be called a traitor. But you are happy to work under the hands of the Japanese. To do administrative work for them means that you have already surrenClered to the Japanese. You are happy today to be Section Chief. Tomorrow you will not refuse the position of Commissioner. Your heart must decide whether you are loyal or a traitor, and to make this decision it does not matter whether the position is high or low. Old Second, listen to me, take your wife and leave the city. Be a 'pure and clean' person . I cannot go away. I cannot leave our grandfather and our father and mother, but I will never beg food from the Japanese. If I can teach school, I will continue to teach. If I can't go on teaching, I will try to get some other work." When he had said this, Rey Shuan felt comfortable as if he had spit out a fishbone lodged in his throat. He had not only advised the Second, he had found also the only possible stand for himself, a compromise that yet did not compromise him. This had been very difficult to state because the line he wished to draw was very fine and not easy to grasp. But now that he had made the state­ ment he was pleased. He was not pleased with the way he had expressed it, but was pleased that the words had come from the sincerity of his inner mind. Rey Feng stood up, adjusted his coat, seemed about to smile but did not smile, about to speak but did not speak, and walked out. He could not understand what his eldest brother had said. The best he could do was to walk out, to show that if the eldest brother had the heart of an eldest brother, the younger brother had the younger brother's way to act. Neither need interfere with the other.

Chapter Twenty-three

S

was in a small general store cutting the hair of the clerks. Outside in the street were newsboys selling extras. From the experience of the past three months, extras were like funeral notices. When the newsboys shouted the extras, they used cheerless voices . They hated to shout the victories of the enemy. One boy, his nose red from the cold, put his head inside the door UN THE SEVENTH

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of the shop, and asked in a quiet voice, "Care for a look at an extra, Manager?" "What's happened?" Sun the Seventh asked, continuing to shave his customer. The newsboy rubbed his nose. "Shanghai-" "What's happened to Shanghai?" "Ahhh-retreat." Sun the Seventh dropped the razor. The razor dropped from the shoulder to the knees of the clerk before it fell on the ground. "Hei, this is not a joking matter, Master Seven," the clerk scolded Sun the Seventh. "Shanghai finished !" Sun the Seventh slowly picked up the razor. "Oh !" The clerk was no longer angry. He knew what the end of Shanghai meant. Sun the Seventh gave the newsboy a copper. The newsboy sighed, left a small page of newsprint, and walked away. Sun the Seventh and the clerk shared the extra. S H NGH I-THE The clerk took over the paper, rolled it into a ball, flung it on the ground, and pulverized it with his foot. Sun the Seventh went back to shaving him. His shortsighted eyes blinked and it seemed difficult to see.

IMPERIAL ARMY-DECISIVE VrcTORY."

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Little Tsui-his pumpkin face flushed-and Cheng Chang Shun with his nasal tones more pronounced, argued fiercely. Chang Shun was sure that although the armies had been defeated in Shanghai, N anking would surely be saved. Little Tsui hoped that Nanking could hold out but the retreat from Shanghai was a heavy blow to him. He dared no longer be optimistic. Had not the Peace of January Twelfth been made in 1934 as soon as Shanghai was defeated? Chang Shun looked up an elementary school textbook. "See this map of Nanking." He pointed on the map for Little Tsui. "This is the Terrace of Raining Flowers. This is the Yangtze River. Heh, if we can defend it, not even a bird will be able to fly in." "Nankow, Niangtsekuan-two great mountain passes-were both impossible- to take. How-" Chang Shun did not wait for Little Tsui to finish his sentence and said, "Nanking is Nanking. Niangtsekuan is Niangtsekuan." His face flushed and there were tears in his eyes. He had been speaking quietly for fear that his grandmother would hear, but as he talked his voice had become louder. "Chang Shun." It was the voice of his grandmother. He knew what his grandmother's next words would be. Not 1 59

waiting for her to speak he went quickly into the room, and to wait for another chance to argue with Little Tsui. In Number Six the shed-builder, Master Liu, almost fought with John Ting. In ordinary times they would nod at meeting and not often speak to each other. John Ting, thinking that he belonged to the English Palace and to Jesus, looked down on Master Liu. As for Master Liu, he knew that John Ting belonged to the Eng­ lish Palace and to Jesus, and therefore all the more he looked down on John Ting. John Ting had just returned from the English Palace, and was carrying some butter which he planned to take to the Kuans. He had already seen the posters outside the Kuan gate. When he met Master Liu in the courtyard, John Ting nodded to him coldly. Master Liu decided this day to overlook the conceit of the imita­ tion Westerner and to inquire about the news. He thought that the news from the English Palace would be fuller and more reliable. He tried to be agreeable and asked with a smile, "You have just returned? What is the news?" "News about what?" "Shanghai." Master Liu moved a step forward and blocked John Ting's path . He was really anxious to learn about Shanghai. "Oh, Shanghai." John smiled secretly. "Finished ." Master Liu again asked, "What of Nanking?" John Ting knitted his eyebrows. "Nanking?" Why should I bother about Nanking?" He spoke the truth. He was of the English Palace. What had he to do with Nanking? Master Liu flared up and said without thinking, "Would you say that Nanking is not our capital? Would you say that you are not a Chinese?" John Ting's face fell. He knew that Master Liu's questions were calling him a "running dog of the foreigners ." He was not afraid of being called a running dog, but Master Liu, a stinking shed­ builder, was not qualified to do the calling. "Oh ! So I'm not a Chinese! You are. What of it? I have never seen you, sir, strike down a Japanese." Master Liu' s face flushed to his ears. John Ting had touched his sore spot. He knew something about boxing, he loved his country, but he had not gone to fight the Japanese. He had no reply. John Ting hurried away, knowing that he had won the exchange of words. ·

Little Wen, the duke, with his hands in his sleeves, stood motion­ less on the steps to his rooms. A cigarette hung from his mouth 1 60

with ashes like an ear of corn. He was planning a new way for his wife to sing an aria. He had not noticed the quarrel between J olm Ting and Master Liu, just as he had taken no notice of who was defeated or who was victorious in Shanghai. He was concentrating on the new way to sing the aria. This new music would "raise waves" in all the theaters of Peiping, bring more glory to Sunset, and give more smiles to his own face. There was no China or Japan in his mind. He knew only that the universe should have wonderful music and melodious singing. Sunset had a cold and was still in bed. After John Ting and Master Liu had both gone away, Little Wen was suddenly inspired. He went quickly into his room and took up his fiddle. Although Sunset was not well, she was still much concerned about the new music. "How is it? Have you got it?" "Don't interrupt me. I've nearly got it." John Ting took the butter and went to congratulate the Kuan family. Big Red Pepper thought it over awhile. She had become director of a bureau. Should she sit in equality with a waiter? But when she saw the butter, she shook John Ting's hands without any hesi­ tation . She worshiped butter. · She could speak no foreign language, knew little of foreign affairs, but she often used butter in her con­ versation. For example, "That girl's face is as fresh and smooth as butter." Descriptions like this made her feel that she knew foreign ways well and as though she were speaking a foreign language. John Ting was used to the ways of the British Embassy and understood how to address people. In each sentence he inserted a "Director of Bureau." This made Big Red Pepper's heart itch with pleasure. Morning Lotus, seeing that his lady was as fond as ever of John Ting, brought out the manner and courtesy he used for entertain­ ing foreign guests. After greeting John Ting as if he had been sent by the League of Nations, Morning Lotus asked, "What is the opinion in the English Palace about Shanghai?" "China cannot win," John Ting answered objectively-as cold and arrogant as an English Lord. "Oh ! We can't win?" Morning Lotus asked with his eyes half­ closed as if to hide some of his happiness. John Ting nodded. Morning Lotus made an alluring eye at his lady, as if to say, "Let us with courage do what we want to do. The Japanese will not leave Peiping in a short time." +

1fo

"Hum, he bought me and sold his daughter! What a game!'' Peach Blossom said fiercely but in a low voice. "I will not marry that man. I won't." Kaodee was almost weeping. That man was General Barren Hill Li. Big Red Pepper now had the directorship, and General Barren Hill wanted Kaodee in pay­ ment. "But it is no use just to feel badly. We must make a plan." "I have no plan," Kaodee said honestly. "A few days ago, I thought that if we won the battle of Shanghai such people as General Barren Hill would be sent rolling back to Tientsin, so I was not in a hurry or worried. Now that Shanghai is lost, and Nanking cannot be held-" She did not need to say more. Peach Blossom could guess what she left unsaid. Peach Blossom was the member of the Kuan family who paid most attention to national events . She considered herself · from Manchuria, and she had always wanted to return to the place where people spoke the language as she did. When she realized that she would have no opportunity to return to her native place, and felt hopeless, she laughed at herself. "Was a great event in a nation prepared just for you, little woman?" Now hearing Kaodee's words, she was surprised to realize that the private affairs of each person are involved in national events . Yes, Kaodee's marriage was involved with national events. She said quickly, "Kaodee, we must go away." "Go away?" In the past, when Kaodee quarreled with her mother or younger sister, she had always felt that she was brave, but now she f�lt that she had no courage at all. "I will go with you." Peach Blossom saw that Kaodee had not the courage to go alone. "You, why should you go away?" "Why should I want to stay here?" Peach Blossom smiled. She wanted very much to say to Kaodee, "Even though she is your mother, I can't stand her any longer, now that she has become Director of a Bureau." The words had already reached her lips but she stopped them.

'?' \.-'

Chapter Twenty-four

HE WEATHER was cold; the greyish white clouds cut off the sunlight; and water poured on the ground turned immediately to ice. The big balloon again went arrogantly �p into the sky. "To 1 62

CELEBRATE THE FALL

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OF N NKING ." The people of Peiping had lost their own city and now they lost the capital of their nation. Rey Feng and his fat wife came to see the Kuans . Morning Lotus and Big Red Pepper welcomed them warmly. Big Red Pepper had already taken over office and during the last few days had been planning her work : First : She wanted to associate with herself the vagabonds and toughs, because the prostitutes had close dealings with them. Second : She must devise means to control General Barren Hill and Lan the Eastern Sun . Eastern Sun, recently, had been coming to the Kuan home whenever he had any time. Although he did not say anything about marriage openly, every time he came he brought half a pound of peanuts or a couple of frozen persimmons for the young ladies. Big Red Pepper saw that this was his invest­ ment for love. She made both him and Barren Hill understand that Meydee was not to be touched. In her own heart she said, "Meydee must at least marry a Japanese commander-in-chief." She knew also that Kaodee was not very obedient and would not be willing to follow her mother's plan for getting two birds with one arrow. According to the agreement, Kaodee should go to General Barren Hill, but Big Red Pepper wanted to make him do more work for her before he should become prince consort. Once he had become prince consort, the old mother-in-law would lose much of her authority over him. And while General Barren Hill was kept waiting, she would like Kaodee to give some affection, not too much, to Eastern Sun so that he would get a job for Morning Lotus in the New People's League. But Kaodee was very cold to both of the men. Third : She should go ahead on two important lines of work. One was to make a thorough investigation and the other was to provide thorough protection. She must examine the prostitutes very strictly and drastically, and arrange exemption for any willing to pay who could not stand the examination . The plan for protec­ tion was to order the prostitutes to acknowledge her as their sworn mother. When the relationship of mother and daughter was for­ mally established their affection for each other would draw them ever closer and closer, if only the prostitutes were willing to give the fee acknowledging the relationship and bring appropriate gifts on each of the three festivals. Fourth : Some plan was needed for dealing with the "dark doors." Big Red Pepper knew that war and famine had combined to pro­ duce many secret prostitutes . On the surface she would prohibit the secret prostitutes with great severity, but in practice she would

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tell the girls in the "dark doors" to bring the presents wrapped in gay kerchiefs. Those in the "dark doors," in order to make their living and not to become involved with the law, had no way but to pay money. All these schemes so tired Big Red Pepper that she constantly beat on her breast, though lightly, with her fist. Her three-pint thermos bottle (imported) was always filled with chicken soup, which she drank to avoid damaging her health with overwork. She worked desperately. She was afraid that the war might suddenly end. So now if she could get a penny more she seized upon it. If she could only gather enough money, even if the war stopped and Peiping returned to its original ways, it would not matter. When Nanking fell, Big Red Pepper did not need to work desperately any more. She could now rest her heart and, relaxed, calmly do her job. She would use her directorship as a ladder on which, step by step, she would mount to the highest place. She wanted to become the first lady of ' Peiping : have her own car; go in and out of the Legation Quarter and the Grand Hotel de Pekin, wearing rings with the largest diamonds, wearing the gowns, hats, skirts, and shoes that would change the fashion of women's clothes in all Asia. She welcomed Rey Feng and his wife warmly. "We-now the stone has really reached the ground-we can work with easy hearts. Nanking cannot be recovered in a year or six months. We can now enjoy ourselves in Peiping without worrying. I tell you, young people, life in this world is for eating and drinking, playing and to be gay. Don't wait for the teeth to fall out before we eat, and we are old and bent before we think of beautiful clothes . That will be too late." Then she said to the fat woman, "Mrs. Chi, you and I must stand together. If I become Number One Lady in Peiping, you must be Number Two. For example, if today I have my hair curled like an owl, you must go at once and have the same curl done. Then we will take a walk in the North Sea Park or Central Park and the next day all the women in Peiping will fight to have their hair curled like an owl. When they have all had their permanents, we will again have changed to something else. We will make them follow us closely and yet never allow them to catch up. We will make their hands busy and their feet struggle, so they will have no way but to kowtow and call us 'masters .' " At this point Rey Feng interrupted. "Director Kuan, please for­ give my interruption. For the last two days I have been trying to think of a good name for my wife, so we can print visiting cards for her. You see, since I am now Section Chief, she will naturally i 64

have much social life, and so visiting cards are a necessity. Please help us. Is Beauty Chi better or Chrysanthemum Chi?" Big Red Pepper, without stopping to think, decided at once. "Chrysanthemum is better, it sounds like a Japanese name. Every­ thing with a Japanese flavor will become the fashion." On the day the news of the fall of Nanking came Mr. Chien had decided to get off the bed and try to walk a step or two. The wounds on his body were almost healed and his face was fuller. He had not shaved for some time and had grown a · soft black beard which made him look even more like a poet. He was worried about his legs; his ankles swelled often and were painful. On this day he felt in good spirits and since his ankles were not swollen, he wanted to get off the bed and try to walk. He was afraid that his legs were permanently harmed so that he could never again walk. He did not tell his daughter-in-law of his plans for he was afraid she would try to stop him. He sat up and let his legs down over the side of the bed. He heard the clatter of Fourth Mistress Li's big shoes . In a friendly voice he called, "You have come, Fourth Mistress." "I've come," Fourth Mistress replied from the courtyard. "There's no need to tell you-I've been quarreling again with that Old Thing and have a belly full of wind." "Both over seventy-what do you find to quarrel over?'' Mr. Chien's spirits were high and he easily found things to say. "You see" -she would not come into the room but stayed in the courtyard so that young Mrs . Chien could also hear her-"he had just come in from outside. His lips stuck out and he was saying­ let me see what it was-Nanking was lost. He was so angry he would not eat and he would not drink. I was not the one to guard Nanking. Why should he take it out on me?" Mr. Chien heard only that Nanking was lost and heard no more . His feet touched the floor. It was as if, hearing that Nanking had fallen, he must stand. His feet had barely touched the floor when his ankles bent like broken kaoliang stalks, and he fell flat on the floor. He almost lost consciousness, and lay on the cold floor a long time before he could breathe again. His ankles, from having no feeling became numb, and then slightly painful, and then pained with a torture that pierced the whole body. He shut his mouth tightly and refused to groan. The pain was so great that beads of sweat as large as soybeans stood out on his forehead . He refused to call out. With a struggle he sat up and felt of his feet. He was in pain but he was more concerned whether his feet had 1 65

been numb because they had not been used so long, or because the Japanese had so beaten him that he might never walk again. He must know which it was . He must have a pair of legs that would carry him, so that he could go and fight to the death with the Japanese. Holding the edge of the bed, he pulled himself up desperately. It was as if a hundred fine needles all pierced his ankles together. His sweat poured, but he was standing. He wanted to stand awhile, but suddenly all turned black, and he fell across the bed. He lay this way for quite a time before he could crawl over and get into bed. His feet still hurt, but he believed that if he started moving gradually, he would certainly be able to walk again . He shut his eyes. There were only two things going in and out of his mind : Nanking had fallen and his feet hurt. Gradually there was again no feeling in his feet. If only he could walk, there were many things he could do; things that were con­ cerned with the fall of Nanking, and the death of his two sons, and of his wife. He began to think from the beginning. He should decide soon what he should do next, but it seemed that it had already become a habit that he must think again of all that had passed before he could be at peace in his mind, and before he could think in a clear and orderly way of what he should do. He could see the day of his arrest like a picture. When he closed his eyes he could see Sergeant Pai, Morning Lotus, the Japanese gendarmes, his wife, his elder son, all as they had been on that day, and exactly where each had stood. He even remembered the two big hibiscus blossoms under the sou them wall. Fallowing the gen­ darmes he had walked to a small street near the Western Single Arch. He ought to know what street it was, but even to the present he had not been able to think of its name. Inside the street was a blind alley with a small gate through which he had been taken . The courtyard into which they had gone was not small, and the row of houses had more than ten rooms as though it were a bar­ racks . There were seven or eight southern rooms which looked as if they had been converted from stables . The courtyard was level like a small drill ground. As soon as he had entered the gate he heard shrieking from the southern house. His head had been cov­ ered with sweat, but as soon as he heard these shrieks, he felt cold all over. Instinctively he had stopped. Like cattle and sheep enter­ ing the slaughterhouse, instinctively he sensed danger. The gen­ darmes pushed him and he walked forward. He lifted his head and braced himself. He said to himself, "The worst is death." Entering the far eastern room on the north side, he was searched i 66

by a J apanese soldier. He was wearing only a coat and a pair of trousers, and one shoe. He had nothing else. The search over, he was taken to the second room, and there a J apanese who could speak Chinese, asked him his name and surname, his birthplace, age, and profession. It was all written down on a card. When he answered that he had no profession, the J apanese, with the pencil between his teeth, looked at him searchingly. This was a thin, hard, pale-faced man. Mr. Chien felt that this thin man would not be too bitterly cruel so he stood naturally and without fear. The man took the pencil from his mouth and again asked, "What is your crime?" Mr. Chien did not know what his crime was, and smiled as he would have done to his friends. He smiled naturally and shook his head. Before his head had stopped, the thin man had stood up suddenly and slapped him. Mr. Chien spat out a tooth. The thin man's pale face seemed to frost over and again he asked, "What is your crime?" Mr. Chien's anger stopped his pain . Very calmly and proudly he said slowly, "I do not know." He now was slapped so hard that it turned him around. He wanted to ask in a loud voice if the man had th e right to strike people and for what was he being struck; but he remembered that the man before him was a J apanese. If the J apanese had had any respect for what was right they would not have come to attack China. Looking at the blood on his clothes he shut his eyes and said to himself, "Beat me. You can smash my face but you cannot smash my heart." The thin, hard J apanese again asked, "Have you any crime?" With this question his hand went into position, ready, if he should receive a "no," or a shake of the head, to strike a most powerful blow. Mr. Chien was aware of his opponent's intention, but separating his feet so that he could stand more firmly he determined not to open his mouth again, and prepared to be struck. From childhood he had considered that to strike was an act of nonreason . Never, even in his dreams, had he thought to be tortured for governmental or military affairs. Now, he was in great pain, but with the pain came a sudden glory that was born of the pain. The hand slapped him again . Mr. Chien made no sound, but only stood firm. Gradually his neck had no more strength; gradu­ ally his legs became weak. He moved. The slaps from the right and from the left made him sway from side to side like the toy weighted in the bottom with which children play, the toy that i 67

cannot be knocked down. The Japanese laughed aloud. It' was not only his duty to beat people, but it was the expression of his religion and education. . Under the light _ of the lamp, Mr. Chien remembered that he had been pushed into a big truck. His face was so swollen that he could hardly open his eyes. The truck moved and his body moved with it. He felt that it was not a truck but a ship in a storm. Gradually the cold breeze wakened him, and from the slits between his eyelids, he saw the lights running backwards. He felt dizzy and shut his eyes again. The truck stopped. He did not know where nor did he bother to look. He could only remember that there was a large many­ storied building that looked like a college. He walked very slowly because his feet were chained. He could not understand why the enemy were so afraid that he would run away as to chain him, unless it was to give him more pain. Yes, the enemy was the enemy. If the enemy had human feelings and human instincts, how could they make war. They beat him again because he walked so slowly. Confused, he could not distinguish whether the chains on his ankles or the beating on his back hurt the more. He was thrown into a room without light. He fell. He fell on a person. The man on whom he fell cursed. Mr. Chien did not say a word. Gradually his body slid over onto the ground. The ground was bare, without even straw. Half unconscious, he fell asleep. Nothing happened on the next day except that two more people were put into the room. He had no interest in trying to see the people in the room. His face swelled until the skin was tight. He could not brush his teeth. His face was unwashed. There was not a spot on his whole body that did not ache. At about ten o'clock in the morning someone brought him a small wooden box of rice and a bowl of water. He drank the water but did not touch the rice. He shut his eyes, stretched out his legs, and leaned his back against the wall, waiting for death. Nothing happened on the third day. He became angry. He began to understand that a man who had lost his country could not even die when he wanted to. He opened his eyes. The room was very small and quite bare. There was a small window in one wall. Its curtain was several iron bars . In the middle of the room lay a middle-aged man, probably the one on whom he had fallen when he had been thrown in. The man's face was covered with dried blood . His legs were drawn . up and his arms thrown out. He lay on his back and his eyes were shut. Opposite to Mr. Chien sat a couple, a young man and a young woman sitting very close to each 1 68

other. The man was not very handsome but the woman was very beautiful. The man looked at the ceiling and did not move for a long time. The woman held the man's arm with one hand and pressed her own knee with the other. Her eyes, a pair of very beauti­ ful eyes, blinked without ceasing as if she had been very greatly frightened. Seeing them, Mr. Chien forgot his determination to die. He opened his mouth and asked the two young people, "What did you do?" The young man was startled and brought his eyes from the ceiling. The woman looked around with her beautiful eyes as if looking for something fearful. "We-" The man patted the girl's arm and she moved even closer to him. "You're seeking punishment," the man lying on the ground said. "Don't talk." When he said this he moved, as though he had forgotten his hands, and the pain made his face contract. His head rolled from side to side in his pain . "Aiyo, aiyo," came the cries of pain he could not hold back. "Aiyo, they hung me for three hours. The wrists are broken, broken." The woman hid her face in the man's arms. The man swallowed hard. From outside the room came the sound of heavy steps of leather shoes. From the eyes of the middle-aged man came a gleam of hatred. "Ai, I-" Mr. Chien's hand had stifled the middle-aged man's cry. His mouth continued to move and the hot breath spat into Mr. Chien's palm. "I will shout. I will call them." Mr. Chien held his mouth tightly. There was no sound in the room. They could still hear the leather shoes outside. In the lowest possible voice Mr. Chien asked and got enough answers to understand that the middle-aged man did not know what his crime was, unless it was that he looked like another man. The Japanese had not caught that other man but had caught him. He was not willing to confess to any crime, so the Japanese had hung him for three hours, and broken his wrists. Neither did the young people know what their crime was. They had been taken from a tram car by the Japanese. They were school­ mates and also lovers. They had not yet been examined and so were even more frightened . They knew that to be examined was to be tortured. The same evening an enemy soldier came in and sweeping the room with a flashlight, pulled the girl to her feet with one motion. The girl screamed. The young man stood up and with one blow knocked the soldier down. The soldier jumped up and continued 1 69

to drag the girl out. She struggled. Another soldier came in and they carried her away. The man ran after them. The door was shut in his face. Far away they heard the girl screaming in a high shrill voice which pierced the room like a needle, almost as if the sound had light. The woman stopped screaming. The young man began to cry softly. Mr. Chien wanted to get up and stand by the boy and hold his hand, but his feet were already numb. He could not stand. He wanted to say something to comfort the boy but his tongue seemed also numb. Staring into the dark he suddenly thought, "I will not die, I will not die. I must live and get away from here. I must kill them as they have killed us. I must live for revenge." Looking at the little light that came in the window as the day was about to break, Mr. Chien felt cold. At this moment the door was opened and, as a dead dog is thrown, the girl was thrown in to the room. The little window became rose-colored and the light stole in trembling. . The girl was naked below the waist. There was only a small white shirt on her upper body. She did not move. On her thighs the blood had already dried . The boy took off his own coat and covered her legs, and then in a low voice called, "Jade Green, Jade Green." She did not move or answer. He took one of her hands . It was already icy cold. He put his mouth to her ear and called, "Jade Green, Jade Green." Still she did not move. The boy did not call nor touch her again . He put his hands on his belt and stood facing the little window. The sun had risen. The iron bars of the little window were bright because they had been newly put in. The boy stood without movement looking at the bright iron bars. He stood for a full half hour, and then he leaped suddenly and grasped the window sill with his hands. He wanted to beat his head against the bars but his head could not reach them. He dropped back down, disappointed. He turned and looked at the body of the girl. The tears streamed down his face. He then sprang forward as if to beat his head against the wall. "What are you doing?" Mr. Chien shouted. The young man stood still. "If she is dead must you die also? Who will avenge her? Grow some bones, young man. Think of revenge, revenge." The young man again stuck his hands in his belt and stood for a long time. He nodded to the corpse, and then quietly and gently 1 70

lifted her and whispered into her ear. Then he laid her in a corner, and nodded to Mr. Chien as if he had accepted the old man's advice. At this moment the door was opened, and a soldier and a doctor came into the room . . The doctor looked at the corpse, and taking out a form, asked the boy to sign the paper. The doctor said in Chinese, " Infectious disease, you sign." He handed the boy a Parker pen. The youth bit his lip and refused to take the pen. Mr. Chien coughed . The young man signed. The doctor placed the form very carefully in his pocket, and went over to look at the middle-aged man. The middle-aged man made a noise in his throat but did not open his eyes . He was a peaceable man, and even with his last breath would not have wanted to groan. Even when almost dead he still swallowed the injustice and suffering, and was not willing to speak out. He was the most peace-loving Chinese in the world. The doctor blinked his eyes as if satisfied and said to the soldier, "Remove the source of infection." The soldier pulled the middle-aged man, who was not yet dead, out of the room. The doctor rubbed his hands, drew two deep breaths, and then bowed deeply and walked out, locking the door from outside. The young man trembled all over and his legs gave way. He squatted on the floor. "This is an infectious disease," Mr. Chien said in a low voice. 'The Japanese are the germs . If you are not infected, you must find a way to get out. The most worthless are those who try to commit suicide." The door opened again and a Japanese soldier brought the girl's clothes and threw them to the young man. "You, she, walk." The young man threw the clothes on the floor and stood like a hungry wolf smelling food. Mr. Chien coughed again, and said, "Go." The young man dressed the corpse and lifted her in his arms. The Japanese soldier said, "Talk others, cut head, cut head." The young man, carrying the corpse, stood beside Mr. Chien as if to say something. Then he walked out slowly.

Chapter Twenty-five

was left. He suddenly felt that the room was O NLY very large. The room had been bare to begin with and now MR. CHIEN

it looked especially empty-empty in a fearful way. He shut his eyes. In his mind the man still lay on the ground . In the corner of 1 71

the room still sat the young couple-the boy and girl. With them there he had felt less lonely. He thought in detail about each of these people, the way they had looked and the fate of each . He thought of the future of the boy. What would he do? It did not matter what the boy would do. Mr. Chien had given him the best advice and if the young man accepted it he would certainly be as able to deal with the enemy as Second Son had been. He opened his eyes. The room was not so empty; the room was not a small prison room only; it was a place of origin for resistance to the enemy. His heart was at peace. He forgot his poetry, his painting, his wine and his flowers, and his body. Now he even felt that the little room was beautiful. It was his own prison and also that of many other people. It was a link where the destinies of individuals and nations joined. He looked at the chain on his ankles, he touched the wounds on his face, and smiled. He decided to eat the food brought to him and make use of the small amount of nour­ ishment it gave so he could resist. Five or six days passed and he had still not been tried. At first he had been impatient but gradually he understood. Whether he was to be judged or not was in the hands of the enemy. Through the crack in the door someone passed in a bundle of straw. He spread it on the floor. With nothing to do, he would take a straw or two and twist them. Inside a straw he found a small worm. Very carefully he put the worm on the floor as if he had found a new friend. The worm lay quietly, its body curled. Mr. Chien watched it and said, "You thought that there would be safety inside the straw, but you fell into my hands. I used to feel safe but all I had was a straw. Don't be angry with me, your life is as valuable as mine. If we can survive, however, our lives will be still more valuable. I'm sorry I disturbed you, but who told you to trust in straw?" It was on the evening when he found the worm that he was taken out for trial . The place of trial was upstairs in a very large room which looked like a classroom. The light in the room was dim, but as soon as he came in, a very strong beam was shot over from the opposite side, and blinded him. They led him before the judgment table. When he reached the table he opened his eyes again and saw three green faces shining. They were painted faces. The three green faces were quite still . The six eyes stared at him, like those of three cats, together watching a mouse. Suddenly the three heads stretched forward on the necks, and together they showed their white teeth.

Mr. Chien looked at them and did not move. He despised this childish play-acting. He felt that the Japanese who play-acted in this childish way were ridiculous, but he did not laugh for he also admired them for doing such things as seriously as Satan. When they had finished this act, the little green devil in the center nodded slightly to the ones on the right and the left. He was probably suggesting, "This is a tough fellow." In broken Chi­ nese, he began to question Mr. Chien. "You are what?" Mr. Chien, without thinking, started to say, "I am a Chinese," but restrained himself. He wanted to save his body. It would not be good, for the satisfaction of the moment, to bring harm to his skin and bones. At the same time he could think of no suitable answer. "You are what?" the little devil asked again; and immediately explained himself, by saying, "You communist?" Mr. Chien shook his head. He wanted to say, "Not all Chinese who resist the Japanese are communists ." But again he restrained himself. The green face on the left spoke. "Where were you on the first of the Eighth Month?" "At home." "What were you doing at home?'' Mr. Chien thought a moment. "I do not remember." The green face on the left gave a signal with his eyes to the two green faces on his right, as if to say, "This fellow is tough." The green face on the right stretched out his neck like a snake and hissed, "You, big, big, beat." He immediately drew back his head and raised his right hand. There was a rush of wind behind Mr. Chien. The leather thong was like a red hot poker across his back. He staggered forward and his head struck the table. He could no longer restrain himself. Like an angry tiger, he shouted, "Beat, beat, I have nothing to say." The three green faces laughed through their clenched teeth. They enjoyed the sound of the whip and the old man's angry roars . The whip, as though controlled by a machine, fell evenly and un­ ceasingly and with force. Gradually the roars turned to groans. His eyeballs protruded . After a few more blows he fainted. When he came to, he was again in the little room. He was thirsty but there was no water to drink. He put his shoulders against the corner of the room, so that his back would not touch the walls . He fainted from time to time. Each time he fainted he felt that his life, like the steam from a boiling pot, was leaving him. To make people suffer had become an art with the Japanese. 1 73

The second time they brought him to trial was on a fine, bequtiful afternoon. There was only one judge. He was wearing civilian clothes. He was sitting in a very small room with light green walls. The windows were open. The sunshine pouring in showed on a pot of vermilion geranium on the window sill. The Japanese sat beside a small round table on which was spread a dark green velvet cloth. A small vase of ancient design stood on the table. There was a flower in the vase. Beside the vase were two small wine cups and a bottle of light yellow wine. As Mr. Chien walked into the room, the man was reading a book of Chinese poetry. When the old man came close, he seemed startled, and quickly putting down his book, stood up. He asked his "guest" to be seated. His Chinese was fluent and often pedantic. The old man sat down, and the fellow, constantly sucking his breath, poured wine into the two cups. Having poured the wine, he took up a cup and said, "Please." The old man threw back his head and drank the wine. The man also emptied his cup. Then sucking his breath, he again poured the wine. When they had drunk the second cup, he smiled and said, "This is all a misunder­ standing, a little misunderstanding. I hope that you will not take it too seriously." "What misunderstanding?" The old man having drunk two cups of wine was warm. He had not intended to talk, but the strength of the wine forced him to open his mouth. The Japanese did not answer him directly but only smiled cun­ ningly. He again poured the wine and watched the old man drink it down before he spoke. "You write poetry?" The old man closed his eyes before he answered. "Modern or old style poetry?" "I have never learned to write modern poetry." "Good, very good. We Japanese are fond of the old style poetry." The old man thought awhile and said, "Chinese taught you to write the old style poetry. Modern poetry you have not yet learned ." The Japanese smiled. He laughed . He lifted his cup. "Let us empty our cups in one draft, to show that Japan and China have the same culture, sharing glory and shame. 'Within the four seas all men -are brothers,' but we, Japanese and Chinese, are practically 'brothers of the same parents.' " The old man did not lift the cup. "Brothers? Since you have come to kill us, we are enemies . Brothers ! You are joking." "Misunderstanding, misunderstanding." The man still smiled, but the smile was forced. "They came, making trouble, and even I do not agree with them." 1 74

"Who are they?" "They-" The Japanese rolled his eyes. "I am your friend . I would like to be your very good friend, if you will accept my very best advice. You see, you are a Chinese of the older generation, you drink a bit of wine, write a bit of poetry. I like very much your kind of person. They, although they make disturbances, are not all charging about with eyes closed. They do not like your young people, those young people who write modern poetry and read modern poetry. Those young people are not really Chinese. They have been cheated by the English and the Americans into going against Japan. Because I cannot stop their use of force nor keep your young people from resistance, I made up my mind to make more friends among the Chinese-friends like you. If only you and I can face each other with sincerity, we can gradually spread our influence and improve the relations between China and Japan, so that we will become true friends with mutual understanding and be mutually helpful. What do you want to do? Tell me. There is nothing that cannot be done. I have power to free you ." The old man was silent for a long time. "How about it?" the Japanese urged. "Oh, I should not press you. Real Chinese are slow. Take your time." "I do not need to think. If you wish to free me, please do it quickly." "But after you are freed?" "I will make no conditions. To starve is a small thing. To lose one's integrity is big." "Think of me. If I set you free without conditions, what will I report?" "That's your problem. I love my life, but I love my integrity more. " "What integrity? We have no thought to conquer China." "Then why the war?" "That is the misunderstanding." "Misunderstanding? Well, let the misunderstanding stay until the end. Unless history is all lies, there will be a day when we will know what this misunderstanding is ." "All right." The Japanese slowly stroked his face. His left eye became a narrow slit, but his right eye remained open . "You said it was a small thing to starve. All right, I will starve you and see. For three days you will receive nothing to eat." The old man stood up. He was somewhat dizzy. He took hold of the table to steady himself. The Japanese stretched out his hand. "Let's shake hands." 1 75

There was no expression on the old man's face. He sta rted slowly out. He had already walked out of the room door when he was stopped. "When you have thought it over, and understand, let me know. I want to be your friend." Returning to the little room, Mr. Chien determined to wait for starvation . Yes, the Japanese truly knew how to make people suffer. After wounding the outside, they punished the inside. He smiled. The same evening three more prisoners came to the room, men of thirty or forty. Judging from their frightened appearance, he knew they also had committed no crimes. Those who have really done wrong, can calmly wait for judgment. He did not wis h to question them, but in a low voice he urged, "You must confess to nothing, po matter how they beat you . No need to fear. The country has been conquered . We should suffer. Hold out. If you can hold out, there will be revenge." For three days there was nothing for him to eat. For three days the three men were tortured in turn . Hunger, pain, and the raw flesh and blood before his eyes, made him close his eyes and be silent. He still did not know what his crime was, nor did he know why the Japanese urged him to surrender. He was confused, but after three days of starvation, his mind was clear and he under­ stood. It did not matter what the Japanese wanted. He himself must make up his own mind. If the Japanese should say that he had committed a crime, he had committed a crime. His flesh and blood would take the punishment. That the Japanese asked him to join them was no crime of his. But he must keep his integrity even if he lost his life. When he saw this clearly, he felt that the matter was very simple. He gave himself a parable. If one should meet a tiger, there is no use to argue with him . One must decide whether to fight or not. There is no need to consider the reasons why the tiger wants to bite one or doesn't want to bite one. One must think only of ways to strike the beast. Thinking clearly, although his whole body was covered with filth and wounds, he felt that his whole body was transparent, like a great piece of crystal. The Japanese, however, did not consider him a piece of crystal nor stop their torture. Even if he had been a diamond they would have sought ways to crush him. He bore the torture. Only when he could stand it no longer, he cried out, "Strike, strike, I have nothing to say." He gritted his teeth, but the teeth had been knocked out. When he fainted, they poured cold water on him to revive him. They forced cold water 1 76

down his throat, a pailful at a time, and then made him vomit it forth again. They pressed his legs with poles . They bnrned his head with flame. He bore it all. The days passed very slowly when he was conscious. The days passed quickly when he was unconscious . He was more decided than ever not to give in. Those conducting the trials were different each time. Different ones used different tortures and asked different questions. He saw that the Japanese themselves were not quite certain of what he was accused, but having arrested him, they could not let him go without some reason. Also to beat him as a pastime whenever they thought of it, was pleasant. The cat catches not only mice but sometimes catches a beautiful bird, and plays with it for a long time. Those in the room with him came and went. He did not re­ member how many there were. Whether those that went away were executed or freed, he did not know. Sometimes he remained uncon­ scious for a long time, and when he again opened his eyes, those in the room would be different. Seeing the condition he was in, it seemed as if they dared not talk with him. But if he had even a little strength, he would encourage them, tell them to remember their hatred, and to prepare for revenge. This became his only pur­ pose and mission in life. He had already completely forgotten himself. One day when the sun had already started to go down in the west, he became entirely conscious. Opening his eyes he saw a well-groomed man standing in the room looking searchingly at him. Mr. Chien closed his eyes . It seemed to him that the man had asked a question but he could not remember how he had answered . He remembered, however, that the man had very gently and warmly held his hand . Suddenly his mind was clear; the warmth of the hand seemed to have reached his heart. He heard the man say, "They arrested me by mistake. After a while I will be able to leave. I can save you. I am of the Secret Society. I will say that you are one of us. Shall I?" He could not remember what happened after that. It seemed to his blurred memory that he pressed his thumb mark on a book, and that confusedly he promised never to tell what had happened to him. When the lamps were lighted he was pushed out of a large wide gate. Half-asleep and half-awake he lay outside the gate. The autumn breeze was chilly and awakened him from time to time. The place around him was very dark and those that passed by were few. In the distance were street lights and the barking of dogs. The little strength left him was enough only to crawl a few 1 77

steps forward. Desperately he crawled forward. When his arms weakened he would again lie awhile on the ground. He was not dead but his hands and feet had not the strength to move him. He was about to go to sleep when he seemed to see a man-Kuan the Morning Lotus. As a drowning man can in a few seconds see the events of his life, he suddenly remembered everything, and that Kuan the Morn­ ing Lotus was the starting point of all these events. He did not know where the strength came from, but he raised his head and saw clearly that behind him, the place where he had lived all these days, was the Peking University compound. He decided to crawl westward. Morning Lotus was in the west. He crawled. He rolled. Blood and sweat poured from his body. The sweat smarted in his open wounds but he would not stop his forward movements. Before his eyes was always the figure of Kuan the Morning Lotus. When he reached the Little Sheep Fold the last of his strength was gone. He crawled into his own gate. He did not know how he had got into his own room. When he was conscious again, he thought of Morning Lotus. Slowly he began to recognize the people around him and to re­ member some of what had passed. He was very grateful to Rey Shuan, Wang the Third, and Fourth Mistress Li for their care and nursing, but there was one thing only which turned over and over in his mind . He wanted to complete in his mind the full his­ tory of the events from the time of his arrest to the time he had crawled out of the prison. Every day he thought about these things . The stronger he became the more he was able to remember. It was true that there were many little blanks in the story but slowly he was able to put together the main outline. Gradually he was able, when he thought of any special incident, to relate it to other events. Rey Shuan questioned him many times but he was not willing to tell the story. This was not because he had sworn to the enemy but because the story, kept in his own mind, was like a rare and precious possession, and he was unwilling to show it to anyone. With the story safely guarded in his own heart, he would be able to guard safely his plan for revei:ige. In this story of his imprisonment, his one regret was that he could not remember the man who had saved him. He remembered only vaguely what the man looked like. He could not remember the ' man's name, his profession, where he lived. He often thought about his wife and son, but he did not think of i 78

them apart from his prison experience. He put them into one set of thoughts so that his hatred was increased. There was nothing to keep him from carrying out his plans except the need to make arrangements for his daughter-in-law. In fact it would have been easy to make arrangements for her except that she was pregnant. Mr. Chien could forget other things but he could not forget the grandson or granddaughter about to come. He could sacrifice himself but he must think of his descendants. Th� other end of hatred is love. The two ends can be brought together to form a circle. "Daughter," he called. She came in and he looked at her awhile before he spoke. "Can you walk? I want you to go for your father." She quickly agreed. Her health was restored. There was color in her face. The wound in her heart was not yet healed but because of this child she was carrying, she had determined not to weep any more or give way to sadness. After she had gone, Mr. Chien sat up. He hoped that Wang the Third would come quickly, but he was sorry he had not cautioned his daughter-in-law not to walk too fast. He said to himself, "She knows how to be careful, she knows, poor child." He said this several times and then started to laugh at himself. Acting in this solicitous way, like an old woman, did not seem like one seeking vengeance. Young Mrs. Chien was away over an hour. The shining red face of Wang the Third was steaming with sweat, not from walking fast, but from exasperation at walking with his daughter, step by slow step. Arriving in the room he sighed, "If I had to walk a day's journey with her, I would be dead of exasperation ." The young woman was not talkative, but she felt free with her own father. "I walked fast." "All right, all right. Go and take a rest." A gleam of kindness came from the eyes of Mr. Chien . He could not say whether he had been fond of her in the past or not. She had been his daughter­ in-law only, and between daughter-in-law and father-in-law there is a curtain. Now he felt that she was one to be pitied and one to be honored . Everyone else could die but she must live, so that a life could be added, a life that would make a dead one not dead. "Third Master, I beg a favor of you. That bottle of wine under the table, will you bring it to me?" "Just beginning to get well and you think of drinking," Wang the Third said without ceremony. He found the bottle of wine, 1 79

however, and also found two cups. He poured a half cup of wine, and looked at Mr. Chien. "Enough?" Mr. Chien seemed impatient. "Give it to me, I'll pour." Wang the Third sighed and poured the cup full. He gave it to his in-law. "What about you?" "Should I drink also?" Mr. Chien nodded. "Also a full cup." Wang the Third poured a cup for himself. "Drink." Mr. Chien raised the cup. "More slowly," Wang the Third said in an anxious voice. "It won't hurt me." Mr. Chien drank the wine in two drafts. He showed the bottom of the cup to Wang the Third and waited for him to drink. When Wang the Third had finished his wine, Mr. Chien shouted, "Third Master," and then with all his strength he threw the cup against the wall where it broke into many pieces . "What's the matter?" Wang the Third was startled. "From this time forward, I will drink no wine." Chien closed his eyes. "That's good." Wang the Third brought a stool over and sat by the head of the bed. Mr. Chien, seeing that his in-law was seated, slid suddenly over the edge of the bed and knelt on the ground. Before the in-law could think of anything to do he had kowtowed to him. Wang the Third hastened to raise his in-law. "What's all this about, what's all this about?" As he spoke he helped his in-law to the edge of the bed and seated him there. "Third Master, sit down please." When Wang the Third was seated, Mr. Chien went on to say, "Third Master, I beg something of you . Although I have kowtowed to you, there must be no obliga­ tion for you to do it or not to do it for me." "Speak, my in-law. Your affairs are my affairs." Wang the Third brought out his long pipe and began to fill it with tobacco. "This business is not a small one." "Don't frighten me first." Wang the Third smiled. "My daughter-in-law is pregnant. I, her father-in-law, have no way to care for her. I plan to-" "You want her to return to her mother's home. Is that not it? Just say it. This small matter is not worth a kowtow. After all she is my daughter." Wang the Third felt that he was both intelligent and generous. "No. There is more difficulty than that. Whether she bears a boy or a girl, you must rear the child in the name of the Chien 1 80

family. I am giving into your care both my daughter-in-law and my descendants. The daughter-in-law is still young. If she is unwill­ ing to bear widowhood, let her marry again . There will be no need to consult me. But if she should remarry, the child must stay with you. You must rear it as though it were your own grandson. You must often tell the child the manner of the death of his grand­ mother, his father, and his uncle. Third Master, this is not a small thing that I am asking you. Think it over before you reply. If you promise, all the generations of the ancestors will be grateful to you. If you do not promise, I will not think ill of you . Think it over and decide." Wang the Third could not make heads or tails of all this. Suck­ ing his pipe he sat silent. He could calculate but could not think. To take his daughter back home again and to bring up the child were both things he could do. But what was behind all this, what was in his in-law's mind, he could not imagine. Unwilling to sit silent longer, he asked, "What will you do?" The strength of the wine had risen and Mr. Chien's face flushed. He became impatient. "Don't worry about me. I have my plans. If you will take your daughter, I will ask Fourth Master Li to sell these few sticks of furniture for me, and then I may leave Peiping. I may rent a small room and live by myself. At any rate, I have my own ways of getting a living. I have plans." "I will not feel easy about you." The red glow on the face of Wang the Third was passing. "You and my daughter both come to my house. You are over fifty. I am about sixty. Together, we can drink a cup of wine every day." "Third Master, the times are not right. We have each his own road to go. Make it short. Will you promise me or will you not?" "I promise, but you must also promise me to move to my house." With great unhappiness Mr. Chien told a lie. "We'll do it this way. First let me see if I can care for myself alone. If it will not work, I will certainly go to you." Wang the Third nodded his head. He stood up quickly, knocked out his pipe bowl, and drew a deep sigh. Then he went to his daughter's room. Mr. Chien still sat on the edge of the bed. He would never see his wife and his two sons again. Now he was taking the last leave of his old friend and his daughter-in-law, and of the grandson that was not yet born. He looked at the wine bottle and wanted to take another drink, but he did not touch it. He must keep faith with the cup he had broken.

As he sat there, Scholar Yeh came quietly in. "What, you can now sit up?" Scholar Yeh was very pleased. Mr. Chien smiled and nodded. "Soon I will be able to walk." "Very good, very good," Scholar Yeh said, rubbing his hands. Scholar Yeh' s face was much better to look on than before. Although he still had not much flesh on his face, it was not green in color. He wore a new padded coat and the padded shoes on his feet were new. As he talked with his brother-in-law, he dug in the breast pocket of his coat. After digging for a long time he brought out fifteen dollars in bills. With a smile he placed the bills on the edge of the bed. "What for?" Mr. Chien asked. "For you to buy something to eat." When Scholar Yeh had spoken his thin lips closed tightly as though he was afraid that his brother-in-law would not accept the money. "I-I have found a rather good job. The new government has been established." "What new government?" Scholar Yeh sighed. "Brother-in-law, you know me. I am not one without bones, but eight children, a sick wife-what can I do? Can I sit and watch them starve?" "Therefore you have found a job in the government set up by the Japanese." Mr. Chien looked steadily at Scholar Yeh. Scholar Yeh's face worked . "I did not seek the job. I know some shame. They came to me and asked me to help them. My con­ science will excuse me." Mr. Chien very slowly took up the bills and threw them quickly into Scholar Yeh's face. "Get out. Never come again! I have no such relative. Go! " His trembling hand pointed to the door Scholar Yeh stood up slowly. "Brother-in-law, we-" Shame and pain held back his words. Hanging his head he went out. "Wait," Mr. Chien called to him. Scholar Yeh stopped, still hanging his head. "Come, open that box. There are two little pictures. Each can be sold for four or five hundred dollars. Those are my only valuable possessions. Take them and get some money, and start a little busi� ness. What is there to fear in peddling peanuts? It is better than to surrender to the enemy." Saying this relieved Mr. Chien's anger by a large half. He loved Scholar Yeh's learning and knew his dif­ ficulties. He was happy to help him. "Go on ." His voice was as gentle as usual. "Take them with you. They were just my toys. I have no heart to play with them any more." Scholar Yeh did not take time to think whether he should take 1 82

the pictures or not, but quickly opened the box. There was no picture inside. "Not there?" Mr. Chien asked. "I can't find them." "Bring all that rubbish here. Put it here." He patted the bed. " I will look." Carefully, as if carrying precious things, Scholar Yeh one by one put everything from the box on the bed. Mr. Chien could not find the two pictures either. He called in a loud voice, "Daughter-iri­ law, come here." The sound of his voice was so urgent that Wang the Third also came over with his daughter. Seeing the odds and ends on the bed, Wang the Third s·aid, "What is this?" Young Mrs. Chien wanted to greet Scholar Yeh but her fatherin-law spoke fi�st, "Those two pictures?" "What two pictures?" "Those two in the box, the two worth money." "I don't know." Young Mrs. Chien was bewildered. "Think! Who has opened the box?" Young Mrs . Chien remembered. Wang the Third also remembered. "Was it not a paper roll?" he asked. "Yes, yes. They were pictures that had not yet been mounted." "They were put in the coffin of your elder son." ·

PART I I

Jn lite eompOH!f Pf the C:iger

Chapter One

S

NOT CONCERNED with f�1e sorrow and suffering of mankind but it again brought warmth, fragrance, and color to Peiping. The ice had melted from the ground and the moats, and green was showing on the banks of the streams and at the foot of the walls. Bright yellow flecks showed on the branches of the wil­ low trees . The geese formed their battalions in the high heavens and honked their questions and answers to each other. Everywhere were signs of life. Little Precious and Niu Niu were not very happy. It was the time of year to buy clay molds to make little figures of yellow earth. After the figures were cast, Little Precious and Niu Niu would place them on little benches and lay before them the sprouts of the fragrant grasses with the leaves still curled, and then sing : "Mud pies, mud men, you are many; Old men drink wine, don't share any." What fun that would be, but their mother did not give them the money to buy the molds . And when they dug up the fragrant grasses and were about to sing, the father, displeased, said to them, "Be quiet, be quiet." They did not understand why their mother had lately become so stingy that she would not even buy the clay molds for them to make the mud toys . Father was even more strange. Whenever he spoke it was with staring eyes like an angry tiger. The great-grand­ father was really their savior but recently even this grand old man had changed. In the past, whenever the willow trees began to show green he would take them to the Temple of National Protection to buy the tiny new gourd vines and the seeds of many kinds of flowers, but this year he did not even plant the roots of the cab­ bages and turnips, to say nothing of buying the new young plants . The grandfather did not come home often, and even when he did, he had forgotten to b uy them something to eat. Was this not the time of the year when the rose-scented dates, dried persimmons, and Tientsin turnips were sold? Why should grandfather say there was nothing to eat being sold on the streets? Little Precious said to his sister, "Grandfather certainly likes to tell lies." 1 87 PRING WAS

The grandmother was still very good to them but she was always ·sick, groaning and unhappy. She often talked about Third Uncle, hoping that he would soon come back, but when Little Precious said that he would go to find Third Uncle she would not let him go. Little Precious felt that if the grandmother would only allow him to go he could surely bring Third Uncle back. Niu Niu also often thought of Third Uncle and wanted to go with Little Precious. Because of this the little brother and sister often quar­ reled. Little Precious would say, "Niu Niu, you can't go. You do not know the way." Niu Niu refused to acknowledge that she did not know the way. "I know even the Crossroads of the Four Arches." In the family only Second Uncle's face shone brightly. They did not know why but he never came home. He came home only at New Year time, when with great ostentation he kowtowed to the great-grandfather and to the grandparents and went away again. He did not buy even a catty of salted peanuts for them. So the two of them refused to kowtow to him and wish him a Happy New Year. The fat aunt did not come at all. The ones they envied most were the Kuan family. See how they enjoyed the New Year! When Yun Mei was not noticing they would steal out and watch from the gate. "Ai ya, how many beau­ tiful girls come to the Kuan family!" Little Niu Niu watched until she was stupefied . The girls were not only wearing gay clothes but their hair was combed and their faces made up very smartly. They were also very lively, laughing and talking loudly, not at all like mother, with sorrowful eyebrows and bitter eyes. The girls, when coming to the Kuan home always carried presents in their hands. Little Precious stuck his second finger into his mouth and sucked it constantly. Little Niu Niu counted, "One, two, three." The largest number in her mind was twelve, and in a very short time she had counted to twelve bottles, twelve boxes, and so on and on . She expressed the thoughts deep in her mind when she said, "They have so much good food to celebrate the New Year." Once they saw their fat aunt carrying a present to the Kuans. At first they had thought that she was bringing these good things to eat to them, and had run over and called to her. She had not said a word but had gone into the Kuan gate. Because of this the children envied the Kuans and hated them : the Kuans had taken away their delicacies . They returned home and reported this to their mother. Their mother said to them in a low voice, "Ten thou­ sand times you must not let Great-grandfather and Grandmother know about this." They did not understand the reason for this i 88

caution and thought only that their mother was strange. Was not the fat aunt a member of their family? Could she have become a member of the Kuan family? They could not, however, disobey their mother's commands, but kept this anger-breeding affair in their minds . Little Precious said to his sister, "We must listen to Mother's words." When he had spoken he nodded like a small grown-up person as though he had increased in knowledge. Yes, Little Precious had grown in knowledge. You see, although the grown people in the family did not like to hear of the affairs of the Kuan family they were always whispering about the Chien family. The Chien house, they learned from the talk of the grown people, was an empty house only : young Mrs. Chien had returned to her mother's home, and that old man who loved flowers was suddenly seen no more. Where had he gone? No one knew. The great-grandfather, when he had nothing else to do, was always talking to Father about this, and once the great-grandfather had shed tears concerning it. Little Precious had run quickly away : the tears of the grown people were not for children to see. What made Little Precious afraid to speak was the news that the Chien house had been rented by Mr. Kuan and that he was preparing to sublet it to Japanese. The Japanese had n6t yet moved in. The house was being done over; the window sills were lowered; the floors were being changed to wooden floors to take the Japanese tatami. Little Precious wanted very much to go to Number One, and see, but he was afraid of meeting any Japanese. All he could do was to collect some yellow clay, and tell his sister she was a bricklayer, and must build a little house, while he was the fore­ man. No matter how low his sister placed the window he would find fault. "Still too high, stiII too high." He made a very small clay figure, about half an inch tall. "See, Sister, the Japanese are short. They are only so ta11." Their mother also forbade this game. It seemed that Mother not only thought the Japanese not so short, but also that they were very much to be feared, since she was so disturbed about being such close neighbors with the Japanese. Little Precious saw that his mother's expression was strange, and so did not ask her any questions. All he could do was to order his sister to destroy the little clay house, and to change the half-inch tall little man into a ball and throw it out the gate. The apricot trees blossomed . There was a great victory in Taierh­ chuang. Cheng Chang Shun's business was completely hopeless. The 1 89

Japanese had gathered up all the short-wave radios in the city, and then forced the people in each courtyard to buy a four-tube set which could receive only from Peiping itself and from the special area northeast of the city. The Kuan family followed instructions and their radio blared day and night. The programs from the spe­ cial area were an hour later than the Peiping programs, so right into the night, up to twelve o'clock, the Kuan household sounded their drums and beat their gongs to heaven. Little Wen of Number Six bought a set to hear the Peiping opera. The sounds from these two courtyards, one in front of them and one behind, assaulted the Chi family. This so annoyed Rey Shuan that he often cursed. He was determined not to buy a set. Fortunately Sergeant Pai was easy to deal with and did not force him. "Mr. Chi, I tell you what to do," Sergeant Pai suggested. ''You wait. Wait until it might cost me my job before you buy. If we can manage, we'll manage. If you do have to buy and don't want to be annoyed, just don't tum it on. This is a way for the Japanese to do big business. As for listening to the news-who believes-" In Number Four, neither Sun the Seventh nor Little Tsui had money for buying a radio, nor did they wish to buy. Little Tsui said, "Tired after a day's work-when I come home I want to sleep. Who has time to listen?" Sun the Seventh was completely in agreement with Little Tsui's words, but to show that he knew more than Little Tsui, he brought out another reason for not buying a radio. "It is not only that one might sleep, but who do the broadcasting? The Japanese. No more need be said. I certainly will not spend money to listen to the little devils manufacture rumors." They would take no responsibility, but Widow Ma was troubled . Sergeant Pai had come and told them clearly that there must be one in each courtyard. How could that order be disobeyed? Sup­ pose the Japanese came to inspect-would that not be dreadful? At the same time she was not willing to spend the money herself. She could afford what was needed, but what she was most afraid of was to let people know that she had some savings. She decided to talk it over with Little Mrs. Tsui, but she was as unwilling to spend the money as her husband. She also had to show that her own hand was not very full. "I say, young Mrs . Tsui" -the old lady blinked her eyes-"in each of the other courts there is the sound . We cannot always delay. I think we must get one of those things that make a noise so as not to give occasion for the Japanese to pick a fault with us." Little Mrs . Tsui did not answer the question directly but pulling 1 90

around her padded coat that showed the cotton wool through the holes, she dropped her head and said, "The weather will soon be warm, and I still cannot change from this padded coat. It wor­ ries me to death." "Yes, a spring coat is more important than a radio." Widow Ma sighed and returned to her room and discussed the matter with Chang Shun . Chang Shun's nasal tones did not sound good-tempered. "This has finished off my business . Now that every household has a radio who will listen to my phonograph? Who? Our business is done with and yet we must buy a radio. Really, if the Japanese come to inspect, I will explain the logic of it all." 'They must also talk their logic, Chang Shun. It was not easy to rear you to this age. You must not bring trouble on me now." Chang Shun was determined that he would not buy one but to appease his grandmother he often played his phonograph . "If the Japanese come to inspect, we will also have some noise. That will do." Chang Shun could not listen from morning to night to his phonograph and began to visit his neighbors. He knew that he should not go to the Kuan family for the little education given him by his grandmother had made him disdain the Kuans . He wanted to go to the_ Wen family to learn some arias, but he knew that his grandmother did not want him to become an actor, so he went to see John Ting when he was at home on leave from his work. Chang Shun wanted to learn a little English so that he could read the foreign words on the records. He thought that all foreign words were English, and that John Ting knew English well, and so he was very much disappointed that John Ting could not read the words on the records. John Ting, however, had his own explaining : "English i s like Chinese. There i s the colloquial, and there i s the classic. I work in the English Palace, where a mouthful of English is enough. To read English-that can be done only with assiduous attention from youth up. Too bad I did not give time and appli­ cation when I was young. As for speaking English-I do very well. For example : 'huang yiu' is butter, 'cha' is tea, 'shui' is water. I can listen and I can reply." . John Ting did not satisfy his curiosity, so Chang Shun went to see Rey Shuan . He had long wished to come closer to Rey Shuan, but looking at Rey Shuan's cultivated manner, he had not dared to try. One day he saw Rey Shuan standing-holding Little Niu Niu's hand-by the front gate. They were watching two magpies in the locust trees, so Chang Shun came over and greeted Rey Shuan. 191

And as they talked he began to realize that Rey , Shuan was not conceited, and so followed him into the courtyard . When they got to Rey Shuan's room he asked the meaning of the words on the records. Rey Shuan knew them all, and explained them carefully and in detail. Chang Shun was full of admiration for Rey Shuan and said to himself, "He certainly has used time and applied him­ self diligently from his youth up." So Chang Shl,m began to come often to see Rey Shuan. And Rey Shuan was glad to have someone come to talk with him. When Nanking had fallen the year before, his mind had gone com­ pletely dark, but now that he had heard the government declaration of continued war he was no longer depressed . He had often said to himself, "If we but fight there will be a way out." He did not wear a fur coat the whole winter because it had been pawned when Mr. Chien was ill, and he had not been able to redeem it, nor had he felt any special discomfort. Whenever his wife urged him to get the coat back, he would smile and say, "When the heart is warm the body does not feel cold." There was nothing in the house when New Year came, but this did not disturb him. It was as though he had forgotten that there was such a thing as the celebration of the New Year. When his wife urged him to make some provision, he suggested that she pawn the fur coat she wore when she went out. Yun Mei got angry. "Where did you learn to specialize in running to pawn­ shops? A good householder adds to his possessions. We talk only of reducing ours." Rey Shuan did not get angry with Yun Mei. He had decided not to let such small things stir up his emotions . The result was that Yun Mei's fur coat went into a pawnshop. When the school opened after the New Year holiday there were five teachers who did not appear. They had fled from the city. Rey Shuan was ashamed that he had not gone also. From Rey Feng he heard that there was to be a Japanese secre­ tary to the headmaster in every school. He decided that whenever possible he would give the students encouragement and comfort them secretly, so they should not forget China, and if he could not do this he would resign and find other work. The sudden disappearance of Mr. Chien worried Rey Shuan. He could easily guess that Mr. Chien would not hide unless he had gone to do something he was unwilling to talk about with others . He could not think what the poet would do or how he would do it, but he believed that the old man would not give up his life. Every­ thing about Mr. Chien seemed to be bound in with resistance. 1 92

Rey Shuan drank a cup of wine, a toast, to the success of the old poet. In his heart he said, "War makes men. The bad become worse. The good become even better." If the escape of his colleagues and the disappearance of �fr. Chien excited him, the order against using the national currency made him miserable. He had no account in the bank, and so did not need to go to the bank to change to the new bills, but he felt that there was a rope tightly bound around the necks of all the people. He knew that they in North China would only be playing with paper : that all the real wealth would be gone. The bookshops which sold new books were in the same situa­ tion as the banks . Their new books had all been taken away by the Japanese and burned. Those that were being printed now were not the new books, but were the old classics, "Filial Piety," the "Four Books," and so forth . The new books were no longer to be seen. The Japanese did not allow the Chinese to express their thoughts. Yes, already Peiping had no more wealth, no education, no thought. Rey Shuan's heart, however, was lighter than it had been for months because he saw that if the Chinese could only continue fighting, the Japanese would in time have wasted all their tricks. The most formidable Japanese weapon was to keep the people of Peiping from hearing the broadcasts of the Central Govern­ ment, and to use the Peiping operas and comic stories, and the mournful Japanese music to anesthetize their ears. Rey Shuan was able to find ways to hear the Central Government broadcasts, or to read the records of them. He had one or two English friends, and their radios had not been taken from them by the Japanese. When he heard or read the news of the Central Government he felt that he was still a Chinese. The victory of Taierhchuang transformed his steadfastness into a religion. The big balloon on the Street of Eternal Peace went up again. The broadcasting stations and the newspapers all proclaimed a Japanese victory. The Japanese military experts wrote many articles comparing this battle to the Battle of Tannenberg in the First World War, the decisive battle in East Prussia . Rey Shuan believed that his country had won the battle, but he could not shout aloud that the enemy's "news" was false. He could only rejoice within himself, and smile disdainfully at the racket coming from the Kuan house. Chang Shun had come to see him at an opportune time and he was glad to tell him what was in his heart. Chang Shun wanted to pass on to others what he heard from Rey Shuan, for information and emotion are both things that do 193

not like to be contained. He could not, of course, tell his grand­ mother. She had .already asked him why he went so often to the Chi home, and Chang Shun had evaded and said, "Mr. Chi is teaching me to read the foreign language." But before long his secrecy began to be torn and the lining to show, for he had let out his information to Sun the Seventh and Little Tsui. Old Widow Ma was frightened; she was sure that Chang Shun was being ruined by the Chi family. She decided it was time to get Chang Shun a job. If he had a real job, then she could get a wife for him, to hold his mind. She had only this one grandson, and the Cheng family had this one root only. To insure the continuation of the family was her greatest responsibility, and one that could not be avoided. In spite of the crooked ways of the Japanese her grandson must get married and have children . Even if she should suffer under the Japanese the rest of her life, Chang Shun's children might be able to enjoy prosperity and have peace­ ful lives . The old lady thought this out very clearly. She was very happy and felt that she had grasped something that could be held to, something fundamental, something that from the Han dynasty (the most ancient times of which she knew) to the present day, had not changed and would forever and ever be the same-that grandsons must get married and have sons and daughters. Chang Shun's sons and daughters would never forget this old woman, and when she died there would be those to burn incense and paper money for her. Her eyes shone and a red flush appeared on each cheek. Rey Shuan had not thought that Chang Shun could absorb what he said so quickly and was surprised one day when Chang Shun said, "Mr. Chi, do you think I should go and join the army?" Rey Shuan suddenly discovered a truth : people who have not much knowledge have deep feeling. The source of his own emo­ tion was China's ancient civilization . A man can easily get knowl­ edge, but the depths of one's being cannot be cultivated in a short time. He remembered the battles of Shanghai and Taierhchuang, and the nameless heroes who fought in them . Were they not-most of them-unlettered countrymen? Most likely they could not even write the two words country and nation; but they had sacrificed their lives for their country, looking on death as a home-going. And he thought of those with knowledge, like himself-afraid of the wolf in front and the tiger behind-who dared not go forward courageously. Knowledge, it seemed, bound emotion. While Rey Shuan was thinking these thoughts Chang Shun spoke again : "Now I understand; even if the Japanese did not 1 94

force each family to buy a radio, and I could still do my business every day, what would it amount to anyway? If the country is lost, what are a few phonograph records? Could they save my life? I don't want to leave my grandmother, but things being as they are, must I live only for my grandmother? Who of those now fight­ ing with the army have no homes and no old people? If they are willing to sacrifice their lives for the country, I also should go to fight. Don't you think so, Mr. Chi?" Rey Shuan could not answer. According to what he considered right he knew that every Chinese should fight to protect his an­ cestors' graves and his culture, but becaus,e he was a Chinese he was forced to think of the difficulties for each person. If Chang Shun should leave his grandmother and become a soldier, what would become of the old woman? "Mr. Chi, do you think it would be better for me to join the in­ fantry or the artillery? I would like to join the artillery. You see­ you aim at the enen1y' s tanks and whoolung the cannon sounds and a whole lot of them die. Good!" He said this with such .:i aive enthusiasm that even his nasal tones sounded pleasant to the ear. Rey Shuan smiled and said, "Wait awhile. Wait until we have considered it from all angles and we will talk of it again." His words had so little force or decision that it seemed as if his mouth were full of sawdust. After Chang Shun left, Rey Shuan scolded himself in a low voice. "You, Rey Shuan, you are not hard enough . You are always afraid that someone might suffer. Just because of your pity for an old woman you are not willing for a good young man to become a soldier."

Chapter Two #re RED PEPPER became the collective sworn mother of all the fl' prostitutes of Peiping, and Dr. Kao was her most capable "chief eunuch ." Dr. Kao had originally sold medicinal herbs. He had gone to Japan, but when he returned he had hung out his shingle and become a doctor. He was very careful to keep the secret of his past, but with his patients he could not forget his boastful habits as a hawker of herb medicines. His language was much better than his knowledge of medicine. . When Big Red Pepper asked him to help her he was very grateful, for his business was not too prosperous, and besides, to be a secretary in the Bureau for the Inspection of Prostitutes was 195

very excellent opportunity for making money. He knew a few words of everyday Japanese, he dressed well enough to make a good impression on the prostitutes, and he had a mouth that was clever at talking; for all these reasons he felt that he could do the work satisfactorily. He had the opium habit but because his income had not been great he had not been able to indulge regularly. He knew how to anticipate Big Red Pepper's every smallest wish. It seemed as though he had taken root in the Kuan family. He would never join them at mah-jongg, unless there was a hand short. His game was good but he knew the proverb, "To drink together deepens friendship : to gamble together lessens friendship." When he was not playing he would stand behind Big Red Pepper and occasionally give her advice that could be taken or left as she pleased . He would pour her tea, light her cigarettes, bring her the things she liked to eat, and sometimes he would very carefully re­ arrange a lock of her hair that had strayed. Because he waited on her so obsequiously and made her so comfortable, Big Red Pepper trust � d him utterly. Whenever Big Red Pepper stepped into a car or out of one he was sure to be there to help her. Whenever she wanted to create a new hairdo or a new fashion in dress he was always beside her to offer an opinion . Her husband, even though he was Kuan the Morning Lotus, had never been so attentive. Dr. Kao was to Big Red Pepper what Li Lien Ying, the chief eunuch, had been to the Empress Dowager. In his heart he had other ideas but he wanted first to get Big Red Pepper's complete confidence, and some money. Then when his own hands were full he would be able to go directly to the Japanese and knock her off her pedestal, or still better, to get the Bureau of Public Health into his hands. If he could get the position of Chief of the Bureau of Public Health, Big Red Pepper would have to stand behind his back and give him advice about playing mah-jongg. In Kuan the Morning Lotus he saw only the husband of the Director of the Bureau. Morning Lotus had no position; therefore he need not be specially polite to him. For those who came often to the Kuan home, such as General Barren Hill, Lan the Eastern Sun, Rey Feng and his wife, he wagged his tail and addressed them sonorously as "Section Head," "Chief," and so on . Having thus ad­ dressed them with elaborate ceremony he would in a very cold voice say, "Mr. Kuan," so that on the face of Morning Lotus would rise a row of small white spots. Morning Lotus, Eastern Sun, and Rey Feng had become sworn brothers. Even though Morning Lotus had dropped five years in 1 96 a

stating his age he was still the eldest brother. He envied Eastern Sun and Rey Feng because they were younger than he and had already become officials. He was worried and Dr. Kao goaded him. That cruel "Mr." was like a dagger stabbing his heart. He wished to reply with clever words to make Dr. Kao smart also, but it did not seem good sense for the moment to annoy his wife, and Dr. Kao was her favorite. Even though Dr. Kao was in the house day after day, he could not take away from Morning Lotus the right to talk to Big Red Pepper on the pillows. Because of this Morning Lotus did not go often to sleep in Peach Blossom's room . Big Red Pepper not only appreciated Dr. Kao's ability in man­ aging her affairs, she also enjoyed his attentiveness. She had known for many years that her husband did not really care for her. She was satisfied with the power her relationship to the prostitutes gave her, but she was also envious of their free lives and their uncon­ ventionality. She did not respect Dr. Kao, and his attentions were after all attentions only-still for the last twenty or thirty years who had given her any attention? She had never had a springtime in her life. She knew that her guests, if not looking at Meydee or Kaodee, were looking at Peach Blossom, and if they looked at her at all, it was to ask for tea or food. In their eyes she was the house­ wife, and a housewife who was not very much like a woman. Big Red Pepper did not often go to her office, because once when she had just reached the gate of the bureau, two or three boys of about fifteen or sixteen who were there shouted in loud voices, "Bawd," "She-pimp," "Madam." If there were any docu­ ments, she had Dr. Kao bring them to the house for her attention. She could leave the ordinary affairs of the office to the clerks, be­ cause when she took over she had changed the entire staff and installed her own relatives. They were not only relatives, they knew her temper. When she had decided to work at home she ordered Peach Blos­ som to move to a little room, and made Peach Blossom's room into the Third Parlor. The parlor in the north house was Number One Parlor. Kaodee's bedroom was Number Two. All the important guests and the first-class prostitutes were received in Number One. Number Two Parlor was for the middle-class friends and relatives, and the second-class prostitutes; they were entertained 'by Kaodee. The poor relations and friends, and the third-class prostitutes went to Number Three to be entertained by Peach Blossom. There were gaming tables always set in Number One and Num­ ber Two Parlors; mah-jongg sets, playing cards, and dice were there for the guests to use as they pleased. No limits were set to the time 1 97

of playing or to the stakes : but no matter what game was played, each player at each bid must pay the ten per cent to Big Red Pepper. This was a considerable sum, and paid for the luxuries the guests enjoyed : for wherever a guest sat he could put out his hand and take a cigarette of the most expensive brand; boiling water for tea was never absent and the tea of the most expensive kind­ whether it be jasmine tea or dragon well-was there for the guests; hot towels were brought in every three or five minutes, and handed to the guests by smart-looking young women servants. The towels were disinfected. This was Dr. Kao's suggestion. Only the super-special guests could go into Big Red Pepper's own room. There was red tea from the English Palace, brandy, and Chesterfield cigarettes. Also there was a very beautiful set of equip­ ment for smoking opium. Big Red Pepper had recently become more portly. The rings on her fingers became wrapped in folds of flesh so that her fingers looked like newly made sausages. With the growth of her fat, her manner increased. Every day she powdered her face carefully and put on lipstick, and then putting on her red jacket or long gown she would sit in the hall to do her work and receive her guests . Her eyes and ears controlled the whole compound. Her coughs and yawns were signals. If the guests in Number Two or Number Three became too boisterous she would cough twice to quiet them. If she felt tired she would yawn loudly, and the guests would bow and take their leave. When she was tired of sitting in her room, she would go to the other rooms to make an inspection and then only would the second and third class of guests have the opportunity to tell her what they wanted to see her about. If she nodded-it would do. If she knitted her brows-it might be arranged. If she showed no expression-it was "no." If guests became importunate, and continued to plead, she would curse Peach Blossom. She took a nap after lunch. Once the curtain of her bedroom door was lowered the people in the compound stopped breathing and walked on tiptoe. If there were a very special guest she would sacrifice her nap and not become tired. She was a born politician. When the weather was fine, if she did not take Meydee with her she took Mrs . Rey Feng, or occasionally she would take along one or two of her favorite "daughters" to Central Park or to the North Sea Park for a walk; there she could exhibit at the same time her new hairdo and her new-fashioned clothes. Many of the women of the new "nobility" would wait purposely to see her in order to imitate her hairdo and her clothes. i 98

Whenever there was an exhibition of paintings in the park she would go. She did not care for landscapes, flowers, or birds. She liked only the "beauties" of olden times. If she saw a painting of a beautiful girl she would buy it. She wanted to keep the words "Director Kuan" before people's eyes, so when she bought a picture she would be sure to tell them to write these two words on an especially long piece of red paper and attach it to the picture. When the picture had been brought home she would order Morn­ ing Lotus to unroll it and she would study it carefully. Most meticulously she would look at the beauty's clothes, how the colors matched, how her hair was combed, what kind of fan she carried . After she had looked at the picture two or three times� she would invent broad-sleeved and wide-skirted coats, or a long chignon like that of the Tang dynasty. Each of her inventions at once became the fashion. When she gave dinner parties to the Japanese she would bring out all her best. She was not a traitor, she was not a slave in a conquered country, she was the tutor of the Japanese in matters of eating, drinking and wearing. The Japanese, like the prostitutes, were all her darlings. She would give them good things to eat and drink, and good amusement. She was the Empress of Peiping and they were no more than country children. If Big Red Pepper was as happy and comfortable as though she had champagne every day instead of tea, Kuan the Morning Lotus felt more and more weight upon his chest. He did not lose hope, however, but continued to press forward at every opportunity. He paid great attention to small things in order to show his ability and knowledge. It was his idea to rent the Chien house and to sub­ let it to the Japanese. Ever since he had sold Mr. Chien he knew that no one in the Little Sheep Fold had any respect for him. He had thought when Big Red Pepper got the position of Director of the Bureau that all would come to court them, but the neighbors were still very cold to him, and not one came to congratulate him and Big Red Pepper. Now he was to be a secondary landlord, and a Japanese even would be renting from him; and although a sec­ ondary landlord was not an official title, those renting from him were Japanese, and with Japanese as his tenants his glory would not be small. Kuan the Morning Lotus had made a "Who's Who" for Big Red Pepper. This was divided into four sections : Section A-Japa­ nese; Section B-the high officials of the puppet government; Sec­ tion C-older men without influence or power, but with names so well known that the Japanese had invited them to be advisers; 1 99

Section D-local people with a certain amount of face. Under each name he carefully recorded the age, address, birthday, and hobby of the person . If a name was but put in the book, he began to consider that person his friend, and make plans for taking presents to him. To give a present, according to his point of view, was to set in motion a magic power that could conquer anyone. Morning Lotus discovered, while studying how to give presents, that the Japanese were very superstitious. He saw that the sol­ diers had charms and images of Buddha. He also heard that the Japanese were superstitious not only about their own gods and Buddha, but were afraid of the taboos from any part of the world. The Japanese observed the foreigners' taboo on Friday, on thir­ teen, and on lighting three cigarettes with one match . They were afraid of prophecy and dared not say the word "death ." The presents Morning Lotus sent the Japanese followed this principle, and were always in threes . He avoided four because the word for "four" and the word for "death" sounded too much alike. This little discovery made him known in all Peiping. The newspapers not only reported it, but all ran columns praising him.

Chapter Three '?'HE MOTHER of Little Precious had to make preparations for the \/ family to celebrate the Fifth Moon Festival. In past years, on the first and fifth days of the Fifth Moon those shouting the sale of white and purple mulberries and red cherries could be heard from daybreak until time to eat the noon meal. This year the Mother of Little Precious missed this reminder-the shouting of the hawkers. There was still fighting outside the city and no one brought fruit into the city. The Mother of Little Precious said to the Kitchen God, "This year you will have to suffer want. There are none who sell cherries." After apologizing to the Kitchen God she thought perhaps she could get some chungtse-glutinous rice and dried fruits wrapped in broad rush leaves and steamed-to offer but she could not even buy chungtse. To make up for not being able to get any chungtse she wanted to buy rushes and artemisia to put on the gate and a few of the seasonal charms printed on yellow paper that there might be a little look of a festival. But she could find none to buy. She did see one or two selling the charms but the price was very high since the Japanese did not allow the free use of paper. As for the rushes and 200

artemisia, because of lhe inconvenience of coming in and going out the city gates, there was none on sale. The tongue of Little Precious gave his mother many heartaches. "Mother, will we have new clothes to wear for the festival? Will we eat chungtse? Will you mix wine and sulphur and write 'Krnc' on our foreheads? Mother, you should go to the market for the meat. The Kuans have already bought so much meat. They have bought fish, too." Every sentence was like a reproof. The mother could not be angry with her child. Children are the center of the New Year and festival celebrations and they should be merry and have much to enjoy. Unhappy, she could only say, "On the fifth we will mix the sulphur and wine and write 'Krnc' on your forehead. Don't be impatient. I will certainly put the characters on your heads." "We must have gourds, too." The "gourds" were made by wrap­ ping bright silk threads of many colors around bits of cotton wool, and shaping them into tiny gourds, cherries, little tigers, and mul­ berries. These were strung together and given to little girls to wear, fastened to their shoulders. "Little stinky, do boys wear gourds?" the mother said, half in exasperation and half-laughing. "For little sister to wear." Little Precious was always sound in giving reasons . The mother had to take the time to make a few "gourds" for Niu Niu . She had made a little yellow tiger when she pushed away the sewing basket. There were no other festival things . What was the use of having a mere string of "gourds"-that was cheating the children . She secretly shed tears. Tien Yiu, on the morning of the fifth, brought home a catty of pork and two bunches of garlic tops . Although Little Precious did not understand the weight, he could see how small was the piece of meat. "Grandfather, you have brought a very small piece of meat." The grandfather made no answer. Having made the rounds and called on Old Man Chi and on his wife, he returned to his shop. He was very depressed, but he did not want to tell his troubles to his family : he could not carry on his business, but also he could not close the doors . The Japanese did not allow any firm to close down whether there was business or not. Tien Yiu knew that when the big and little traitors became officials there would be silk and satin trade, but the main line in his shop had been cotton cloth . Those who dressed well had not patronized it, and the ordinary people, because of the high prices, could think only of eating and could have no concern with what they wore. He really had no 201

business. He would like to have closed the doors but the officials did not allow anyone to report bankruptcy, and he had to keep the shop open. All he could do was to let clerks go and that gave him great pain. His clerks had never done anything wrong, and also, in these times of "the rampage of soldiers" all should share their troubles together. Why should he dismiss them without cause? At this festival of the Fifth Moon he had again dismissed two clerks-two men who had been his own apprentices, whom he had taught himself. They understood his difficulties and did not say an unpleasant word . Yet the more understanding they were, the more his heart was heavy. Rey Shuan thought about the Japanese teacher in his school. Shimizu was a short man of about fifty. He had an oblong face and grey hair, and wore very thick glasses for his nearsightedness. He was an ornithologist and his publication, The Birds of North China, was rather well known. Except when teaching his classes in the Japanese language, he stayed in his room, reading or stuffing his specimens, and seldom bothered about school affairs . His Chi­ nese speech was very good, but when the students ragged him he pretended not to hear. Sometimes the students put blackboard erasers on top of the door, and when he opened the door, they would drop on his head, but he did not report the students. This made Rey Shuan take especial notice of him, for Rey Shuan had heard that there was the same sort of thing in other schools, and that if the Japanese teacher reported the students, they were at once arrested and put in prison. Rey Shuan thought that Shimizu must be a scholar, and against the invasion, and an tiwar. But an event changed Rey Shuan's opinion. One day when the teachers were in their study Shimizu came in very quietly, and very politely bowed to all, and said to the dean that he wanted to make a speech to the students. He invited the teachers also to listen to him, and his courtesy made it difficult for the teachers to refuse. The students · all went to the assembly hall. The Japanese mounted the platform with great dignity. His eyes were very bright. His voice was low and powerful. His body moved not at all. He spoke in Chinese. "I tell you something, something very important : My son Major Shimizu was killed in battle, in Honan; this is my greatest, greatest glory. China and Japan are brother countries . The Japanese war in China is not for conquering China but to save China . The Chinese do not understand. The Japanese are farsighted, are brave, and dare to sacrifice their own lives to save China. That my son 202

died in China is most glorious. I tell you this so that you will know that my son died for you. I loved my son deeply but I dare not shed tears. A Japanese should not shed tears for a hero who died doing his duty." His voice from the beginning to the end was both low and strong. Every word was controlled fanaticism. His eyes were dry the whole time. His lips were held tightly like two razor edges. His nearly perfect Chinese was concise and powerful. It was as though his emotion was held down by some great pres­ sure which rationalized his fanaticism and made it possible for him to speak systematically and in a foreign tongue. When he had finished, he fixed his eyes on the students as if he looked down on them and despised them, but he bowed to them again deeply with his great customary courtesy. After that he slowly left the platform, lifted his head, smiled, and then quickly walked out. Rey Shuan thought that he should go to see Shimizu and talk with him. He wanted to tell him, "Your son was not sacrificed to save China. Your son and the hundreds of thousands of fellow sol­ diers came to conquer us ." He also wanted to say to Shimizu, "I did not think that you, a scholar, would be as stupid as all the other Japanese. Your stupidity has made you mad. You think only that you are the best and most intelligent people, and that you should be the master race. You don't know that there is no race that would willingly be your slaves . The Chinese war of resistance will teach you this, make you understand that you are not the master race, and that the peace of the world is dependent on freedom and equality between races ." But Rey Shuan walked around the school field several times and swallowed all the words he had prepared. He felt that . he would be unable · to persuade Shimizu to believe him, and even if he did persuade one person­ of what use would that be? Today he again thought of Shimizu, and at the same time wondered what he would do if, after the summer vacation, his classes or half his classes should be taken from him. He thought he should go out and hunt for another job. He was unhappy because he had to ask someone to help him get a job. He had never been willing to ask favors from others, or to use friendship to seek advancement. Today he must, however, go to his friends. The person Rey Shuan was going to see was one he liked to see, and was also the foreigner he was most afraid of seeing. He was an Englishman, Mr. Goodrich, who once had taught him English in the University. Mr. Goodrich was a typical Englishman . He had his own opinions about everything. If in argument he had lost, he 203

still would not easily give up his opinion. Arguing was his pastime. His words were always sharp, quick, and without ceremony, chok­ ing him so that his breath came with difficulty. If others won the argument, he was not angry, but when forced into a corner, his neck would swell, becoming green and purple, and his head would shake constantly. Then he would invite the one who had con­ quered him to a drink. He still would not admit defeat, but he would show respect for the victorious enemy. He was very proud of being an Englishman, but if anyone should first say anything good about England, he would begin to criticize England severely as though never in all English history had there been a single good thing. If his opponent followed his lead and criticized England, he would turn and defend England; in all her history England had never done anything wrong. He had already lived for thirty years in Peiping. He loved Peiping. His love for Peiping was nearly equal to his love for England . All the things of Peiping, even its dust, and the men who carried the night soil, were admirable in his eyes. He never, of course, said that Peiping was better than England, but when he was a little intoxicated he would say, "My bones are to be buried outside the hunting park in the Western Hills." He knew more than the ordinary person in Peiping about the customs of the city, its traditions, and the lore of its many famous places. He was a foreigner and his eyes overlooked nothing. He studied everything carefully and then he would give his own judg­ ment. Gradually he became an encyclopedia of Peking lore : he considered himself the master of Peiping because he knew every­ thing about it, and he disliked the tourists . "To understand Peiping in a week! Why waste your money, and insult Peiping at the same time?" he would say with anger. The greatest ambition of his life was to write a book about Peiping. Daily he worked on his manuscript but always he lacked "a little more." He was an Englishman, so until he had finished he would not tell anyone about it, and was unwilling to tell any­ one that he was writing a book, but in his will he had already called himself the author of the masterpiece on Peiping. Mr. Goodrich wanted to keep all the old things of Peiping. If, when walking along the foot of the city wall or in the suburbs he met one carrying a bird cage, or a left-over person from the Manchu dynasty rolling two walnuts in his hand, he would stop and talk for hours. At such times he forgot England, forgot Shake­ speare, and thought only of those left-over men and their birds and walnuts . As an Englishman he should be against shutting a 204

bird up in a cage, but now he had forgotten England and his eyes had become those of a Chinese, and he felt that China had an unique and independent culture of which to keep birds in cages was a part. He disliked the new Chinese : they wanted revolution, to make changes, to take off the long gown and wear short coats, wanted to keep their women from binding their feet which would be like setting free the caged blackbirds and thrushes . He felt that these things would ruin the whole pattern of the culture, and that all change should be at once forbidden. He did not wish to make the Chinese remain in a stagnant pool, but he was afraid that in making changes, the Chinese would lose the Peiping about which he had written. He would sometimes bring out the collection of New Year woodcuts, printed thirty years ago, and say, "Look, are the woodcuts of thirty years ago better or the lithographs of today? Look at the color. Look at those eyebrows . Look at that line. Look at the paper. What productions have you now to compare with these of thirty years ago? You have already forgotten what beauty is. You want to change, you want to change from a tiger into a cat." Besides the New Year woodcuts he had collected many other things of thirty years ago : opium sets, shoes for bound feet, official peacock feather insignia, mandarin beads, and many other kinds of things . "Yes, it is not good to smoke opium, but look carefully and see how beautiful and how fine is the workmanship of this pipe." When he first came to Peiping he was working in the legation . After resigning from the legation he taught in Chinese universities, and occasionally he would help in Chinese businesses . He had ability and his way of living was very simple, so although his earnings were small they were quite sufficient for his needs . He rented three rooms and a garden in the southeastern corner of the city which had been a part of an old estate. The walls of the three rooms were completely covered with scrolls on which were mounted Chinese paintings and calligraphy, and in the rooms were a variety of Chinese curios. He had asked a Chinese scholar to write the characters for a Board of Honor to hang over his gate. He called his place the "Little Liu Li Chang" after the street in Peiping where books and curios were sold. In the garden were a few great jars for goldfish, several cages with birds, and many kinds of flowers . Just inside the gate he had built a small room for the eunuch he had found to be his gatekeeper, who had been in the service of the Emperor Kuang Hsu. During the festivals and at the New Year, he would have the eunuch wear his official red-tasseled hat, 205

and make chiaotse for him to eat. He observed Christmas and Easter, and also observed the Fifth Moon Festival and the Moon Festival of the Eighth Moon. "If everyone were like me, would they not have several times more enjoyment?" he said smilingly to the eunuch. He did not want to marry. Whenever his friends talked to him about marriage he would always shake his head and say, "I am an old monk watching a dowry procession and hoping for marriage in the next incarnation." He had learned many of the succinct Peiping sayings and used them very appropriately. When the British Embassy moved to Nanking he returned to work in the Embassy. He begged the Ambassador to leave him in Peiping. He was now a man over sixty. He had taught and liked Rey Shuan. The reason was that Rey Shuan was always calm and had an even disposition. In his eyes Rey Shuan seemed like a person of thirty years ago. Rey Shuan often helped him collect material for the masterpiece that prob­ ably would never be finished, and also helped him translate Chinese poetry and essays that he wanted to use. Rey Shuan's English was good and his Chinese not bad, and Mr. Goodrich enjoyed working with him. When Peiping fell Mr. Goodrich sent a man with a letter to Rey Shuan, in which he compared the fall of Peiping with the invasion of Rome by the northern barbarians in the dark ages of Europe, and said that he had not been able to eat properly for three days. At the end of the letter he had said, "If you have any trouble, please come to me. I will do my best to help you. I have lived in China for thirty years. I have learned a little about the way in which Eastern people make friends and help each other." Rey Shuan had answered with a very polite letter but had not been to see Mr. Goodrich . He was afraid that the old man would blame the Chinese. He could imagine that the old man would curse the Japanese invasion and at the same time blame the Chinese who were not able to protect Peiping. Today, however, he had no way but to go. He was sure the old man could help him, yet he knew that the old man would pour out all his complaints and criticisms which would be difficult for Rey Shuan to bear. No matter how one looked at it, to bear the old man's talk was better than to stretch out the hand and take money from the Japanese. Exactly as he had expected, Mr. Goodrich started in immediately and criticized the Chinese for a quarter of an hour. It was true he did not scold Rey Shuan himself, but Rey Shuan could not, because he was not criticized himself, fail to defend his countrymen. 206

When they had argued for over half an hour, the old man sud­ denly remembered. "How terrible, just thinking about arguing and I forget my Chinese manners." He quickly rang the bell and asked the servant to bring tea. The one who brought the tea was John Ting. When he saw Rey Shuan sitting and talking with Mr. Goodrich, John's surprise was beyond description . The old man drank his tea and voluntarily stopped the argument. He had no way to defeat Rey Shuan, and yet he could not easily give up his own point of view. It was best to wait for another opportunity in which to join the battle of tongues . He knew that Rey Shuan must have some reason for coming to see him; he should not take all the time in general conversation. "How are things?'' he asked . "You must have some reason for coming to see me. Let's get our business talked out." Rey Shuan told him his reason for coming. The old man stretched his neck several times, and then said to Rey Shuan, "You had better come here. I cannot find a good assistant. If you come we can work together, and it will be certain that we will both be satisfied. You see, these old school Chinese­ their English is of no use but their Chinese is reliable; and those now graduating from the universities-neither their English nor their Chinese is any good. You always defend your new Chinese, but what I have just said, even you cannot argue against." "When a country is changing from the old to the new, it is, of course, impossible to jump to paradise in one leap," Rey Shuan said with a smile. "What?" The old man quickly swallowed a mouthfol of tea. "There you go again . Peiping is already lost, and you still want to change-change to what?" "Lost : but it will be taken back." "All right, all right, I don't at all believe what you say, but I admire you for the strength of your convictions. All right, let's not talk any more today. We will have plenty of opportunity in the future to hold debate. Come to work on Monday. Write your work history in both Chinese and English ." Rey Shuan wrote it out, and the old man put it in his pocket. "How about a drink of wine? It is the Fifth Moon Festival today." When Rey Shuan returned to the courtyard he saw his mother standing under the date tree looking at the tiny new dates like little green peas, and felt it strange to see her there. She did not look familiar. The leaves of the date tree reflected a tender green 207

light on the yellow but serene face of the old woman. Rey Shuan felt that he was looking at a tranquil and touching painting. He thought of his mother of the past; and compared the one today with the one he had known when he was ten, or when he was twenty, and seemed not to know her. He stood silently watching her. Slowly she took her eyes from the little green dates and saw him. Her eyes were sunk deep in their sockets, and the eyeballs were flattened and dull, but they still showed her kindness and gentleness . Her eyes had changed but the rhythm of her soul was as it had always been; she was still the Mother. Rey Shuan sud­ denly felt a warmth in his heart. He wanted to go · over and take her hand, and call, "Mother," and bring back to her eyes the light of ten or twenty years ago. If he could speak to her in that way, he felt that he would be as innocent as Little Precious or Niu Niu . He wanted to pour out all the sorrows of his heart and make himself comfortable, but he did not call to her. The tongue of more than thirty years could not in that simple way call, "Mother." "Rey Shuan," his mother called him gently, "come here, I want to talk with you." Her voice was so gentle that it carried a pleading note. He answered her with great affection. He could not refuse his mother's plea. He knew that with the Second and the Third away his mother was very lonely, and he was ashamed that he had not thought of this before and given her more comfort and affection. He went with her into the south house. Rey Shuan told her that he had a new job, and his mother said, "You have a new job, but it seems to me that you are not too happy about it. Am I right?" "Unng-" He was embarrassed, and did not know how to answer. "Tell me the truth." "You are right, Mother, I am not too happy about it." "Why?" The old lady smiled again as though to show her son that no matter how he answered she would not be angry with him. Rey Shuan knew that he had no need to hide his feelings . "Mother, if I work for the family I cannot work for the country : because of this I have been unhappy most of the time for the last few months . I am still not happy, and in the days to come, I think I will still be unhappy. I feel that when the country has suffered such great calamity, and I have not joined with those who are resisting the enemy, it is really a-really a-" He could not find the suitable word, but smiled sadly. 208

The old lady sat still for a while and then nodded her head. "I understand, your grandfather and I have tied you down." "I have also a wife and children. They also have to depend on me for a living." "Do people ridicule you often? Do they say you are a coward?" "No. It is my conscience that constantly ridicules me." "Umm, I hate myself that I still do not die but am always a burden to you! " ''Mother!'' "I see it. The Japanese devils will not leave Peiping in a short time, and with them here you can never be happy. I watch you every day through the window. You are my first born : when you are unhappy I cannot be happy either." Rey Shuan walked back and forth in the room. Then he smiled, "Mother, don't worry, I'll be happy by-and-by." "Yon?" The mother also smiled. "I know you." Rey Shuan's heart pained him and he could say nothing. Nor did the mother speak. After a while Rey Shuan said, "Mother, lie down awhile. I want to write a letter." Awkwardly, he left the room. Back in his own room, he wrote a very short letter to the head­ master of his school. The following day Rey Shuan met Master Liu, the shed-builder, as he came out of the gate. Master Liu's face was tight. "Mr. Chi, you are going out? I have something very important to talk over with you." The way he spoke showed that no matter what affairs of importance Ray Shuan had he must first listen to what Master Liu had to say. Rey Shuan ushered him into his room. Master Liu began to talk as soon as he sat down . His words came as though they had been on the edge of his lips for a long time. ''Mr. Chi, I have a very difficult problem. I went to the North Sea Park yesterday, and although I did not do the lion dance for them, my heart is not happy. I did not eat my evening meal, but went out to get rid of my oppression, and met Mr. Chien." "Where?" Rey Shuan's eyes brightened. "Over there in the empty space." Master Liu said it very rapidly as if he was annoyed by Rey Shuan's interruptions. "The empty space?" Master Liu paid no attention to Rey Shuan's question, and went right on talking. "As soon as I saw him he asked me what I was doing. He did not wait for my answer but said again, 'Why don't you go away,' and again without waiting for me to speak he said, ·

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'Peiping is already dead. Inside the city there are ghosts only. You have to go outside the city to find men .' I did not entirely understand all he said, but I was able to guess most of what he meant. I told him about my problems : I have a wife at home. He smiled and told me to look at him. He said, 'I had wife and sons . Where now are my wife and sons? Those who are afraid of death, die. Those who are not afraid of death, may live.' At the end he said to me, 'Go and see Mr. Chi, perhaps he can help you .' And when he had spoken he went away toward the east. After a few steps, he turned and said, 'Give my greetings to the Chi family.' "Mr. Chi, I thought about this the whole night through. I have determined to go away, but my wife needs six dollars a month on which to live. With the price of grain and flour as it is today, with six dollars my wife could pay the rent and eat corn bread. Things may go up in price, who knows. Mr. Chi, if you can give her six dollars each month, I will go immediately. If things become more expensive, ask her to come and help Mrs. Chi in the kitchen, and give her two meals a day, that will be enough . This is the plan that came to me. Are you willing or not? Ten thousand, ten thou­ sand, do not hesitate out of politeness to say what you think." Master Liu took a deep breath . "I want to go. If I stay here, sooner or later I will suffocate. Every time I go out of the city or come in, I have to bow to the Japanese. When there is nothing happening they come for me to do the lion dance for them . I can't stand it any longer." Rey Shuan thought awhile and smiled . "Master Liu, I will be very happy indeed to follow your plan. Six dollars a month will not be difficult for me now. How it will be in the future, no one knows ." Master Liu stood, and gave a great sigh of relief. "Leave the future to the future. You are willing to help now, so I can go with a comfortable heart. Mr. Chi, I don't know how to say the right words . You are my benefactor." He clasped his hands, and made the traditional obeisance which took in earth and heaven.

Chapter Four ?"HE SUMMERS of Peiping were beautiful in peaceful years. Each \/ summer-from the time the cherries of the Ming Tombs Valley were brought to market to the time the dates began to turn red-was an epic of the history of fruit. Look! The green apricots with kernels not yet hard-in little rush baskets the size of a fist210

which are sold with a dash of syrup to the young women and chil­ dren . Awhile later the kernels of the apricots become hard but the skin is still green, and the hawkers come again to cry their wares . Their shouts make the mouths of the boys and girls water, and the old-who could only rub their already loose teeth-smile sadly. Before long apricots that are half-red and half-green come to mar­ ket. Then suddenly all the varieties of apricots come to the market at the same time. Some are big and deep yellow, some are small and light yellow. Some are small and red. Last of all are the famous white apricots, wrapped carefully in soft paper. As if the best has been saved to the last, these end the apricot season. Before the apricots come to an end the little peaches with their red tips askew have already come to take their places . When all the apricots have disappeared, all kinds of peaches-round ones, flat ones, blood red, all green, hard ones, soft ones-all come to Peiping to give enjoyment to eyes, noses, and mouths. The red plums, yellow plums, apples, come one after another. People can see many varieties on one hawker's load. As each kind of fruit ripens the country people bring it to the city, carrying it from the mountains on their backs in carefully covered deep baskets . Their simple straightforward calls are heard and they wait before they call again-"Big Apples" or "Big honey peaches ." What they sell is the real mountain fruit from their own orchards. The appearance of the mountain people and the genuine­ ness of what they sell makes the people of Peiping see-in their imaginations-the orchards in the Western Hills and the Northern Mountains, and feel poetic. Pears, dates, and grapes all come somewhat later, but they are so many in variety and so fine in quality that their late coming does not make them coldly received by the people of Peiping. Peiping people are very proud of their big white dates, small white pears, and the long milky grapes. When the people see the pears and dates they know that the first leaf of autumn has fallen and begin to sun their lined coats and to rip and wash their padded coats. Besides the fruits there are also the melons. How many varieties of melons there are, how many varieties of cantaloupe! Although the watermelons are good they must lose for fragrance to the canta­ loupe. These silvery white ones are suitable for the refined to eat, these with the thick hard skins are good for the young and strong, and "Joy of the Aged" can save the toothless old ones from having to sit facing the corner with nothing to do. At the Mid-summer Festival the wealthy can taste the tender lotus roots from the Hot Springs. When the time comes for the ·

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main supply of fresh lotus roots to come to market, even those who are not so rich can taste the "iced bowl." On the tender lotus leaves covering the cracked ice in a large bowl are fresh lingchao, walnuts, apricot seeds, lotus roots, and sliced cantaloupe. This makes a "wine drinking dish" that is fragrant, fresh, dainty, and cool. Since the Immortals eat fresh fruit only, and never touch that which is cooked, their earthly palace should be Peiping. The weather is hot, but the evenings and mornings are cool and sharp, and people can work. Those who know how to be comfort­ able place the decorative ice boxes of hard redwood trimmed in copper and the drum-shaped stools made of five-colored porcelain, in their rooms, and build mat-sheds over their courtyards to ward off the heat. If they do not want to stay at home they can go to the North Sea Park and row in small boats in the lotus lake, or walk in the Park of the Imperial Ancestral Temple, or drink tea and play chess under the old cedar trees in Central Park. Those who wish to get even closer to nature can take fishing rods to the Northern Reservoir or to the High Arched Bridge outside the Western Straight Gate of the city. They can sit under the old wil­ lows on the banks and fish for half a day. If one wants to go far, there are the Western Hills where one can stay for days in the Temple of the Sleeping Buddha or the Azure Cloud Temple. And sometimes in the hills, if you are fortunate enough, you can even in a rustic tea house or a little restaurant come across an imperial cook who will make a couple of dishes for you or pastry which once was enjoyed only by the emperor. The Chi family, even though they did not have a mat-shed over the courtyard or decorative ice boxes in their rooms, and had no ice bowl or lotus leaf drink with the eight precious ingredients­ even though they did not have these comforts they enjoyed the summer. Old Man Chi could see, each morning as he pushed open his door, the blue, white, red, and many-colored morning glories with the dew still on them, holding their tiny trumpets upward as if making music to glorify the Creator. He did not have the habit of going to the public parks or to the North Sea Park, but after his noon nap he would walk slowly to the Temple of National Protection. There, in the Hall of the Heavenly Kings-when there was no temple fair-would be storytellers, and the old man would drink a cup of tea and listen to the stories. The hall was high and deep so there was always a gentle breeze which could give the old man a chance to get away from the heat. When the sun went to the west he would walk slowly back home. He would carry back two or three cantaloupes for Little Precious and Niu Niu. They 212

w ould always be under the big locust trees, picking up the locust blossoms and waiting for their great-grandfather. When the old man en tered his gate, the western wall of the compound would already be in shadow. He would take a small stool, and sit under the date tree, and drink the green bean soup that the Mother of Little Precious prepared for him. The evening meal would be eaten in the courtyard under the shadow of the walls. The old man would rest awhi le after the meal, and then taking an earthen bowl and a sprinkler would water his flowers . When he had finished this work, the day would still not be dark, so he would sit under the eav es, and with the children watch the bats flying low or tell them a story that had been told countless times before. In this way the old man's day was done. Mrs. Tien Yiu felt better in the summer and could do a little work that was not too arduous . She would help to dry the spinach, and the rind of the eggplant in preparation for stuffing the New Year chiaotze. In the watermelon and pumpkin season she would dry the melon and pumpkin seeds on the window sills so that on rainy days when the peddlers did not come around she could roa; t the seeds and give the children something to chew on . These little duties made her forget for the time the thought of death . Some­ times relatives or friends calling on them, and seeing her busied with these little tasks, would overpraise her. She would answer, "Ai ya, I am still alive, but who knows what will happen in the winter." Even the Mother of Little Precious, although she still had to cook and wash for the family in the summer, could manage a little time to enjoy the leisurely pursuits of summer. She could buy tube­ roses from the peddlers at the front gate to put in her hair for fra­ grance, or she could mix lady's-slipper blossoms with a little alum, and holding Niu Niu's little hand paint her finger nails red. Rey Shuan had no way to amuse himself. He was not interested in bustle and merrymaking, but enjoyed most the quiet pastimes . He would borrow a book and read peacefully in the Peiping library for half a day. Sometimes, if he felt happy he might go outside the Western Straight Gate of the city, to the side of the river, where he would rent a mat and sit reading under the willow trees. If he had Little Precious with him, Little Precious would pick tiny golden water lilies and little "green lanterns" from the river, and when he got home ask his great-grandfather to buy a few little goldfish to put with these water plants. The happiness of Little Precious and Niu Niu in the summer was greater than that of anyone else. They could go barefoot. If there was nothing else amusing there were always the two big 21 3

locust trees outside the gate. They could pick up the locust blos­ soms and taking them to their grandmother, ask her to braid them into attractive patterns. When they were tired of playing with the green locust tree caterpillars they could search at the roots of the trees, and in the corners of the walls, for the chrysalises with heads that turn round and round. One could ask a chrysalis which is east and which is west, and it would silently turn its head. Though the meals in the summer were light, when necessary, cucumbers could be stolen from the kitchen, and melons and fruit were often bought and brought home. Little Precious would announce many times, "If I had three hundred peaches to eat a day I could go without meals ." Even in the time of the Great Rains there would be those outside the gate who sold boiled peas . Ah, how exciting to go out and buy the boiled peas ! Little Precious, with an old piece of oilcloth over his head, and his feet bare, would wade through the water in the courtyard to reach the front gate, and the peas that had been boiled with spices, and the boy selling the p�as with his big stiff peasant's straw hat, his trousers rolled to his crotch, and the basket over his arm. The peas were measured with a tiny wine cup : one copper for a tiny cupful . When Little Precious went back he would sit on the kang and share the peas with Niu Niu, but Niu Niu's share could never be as fragrant or as beautiful as his for Niu Niu had not had the adventure of going to the gate to make the purchase. When the rain was over they would watch the many dragonflies flitting through the courtyard and the seven­ colored rainbow in the sky. But in the summer this year they had only the heat. There was almost nothing else that was good. Old Man Chi lost his flowers, and he had no heart to go to the Hall of the Heavenly Kings to listen to the storytellers . Mrs. Tien Yiu though in better health had nothing to do. How could she dry spinach for the winter when they could not get enough even for them to eat each day. Every two or three days the city gates would be closed so the vegetables could not be brought in daily to the city, and when the Japanese decided to take "health measures" against the spread of "infectious diseases" they would pour lime water on the eggplant and other vegetables as they were brought into the city through the city gates, so the vegetables would rot in a short time. Therefore, with a closing of the city gates and a "disinfection," the vegetables would rise in price, so that they would cost more than meat. She felt that living in this way it was impossible to make plans for the future. If they wanted to eat chiaotse stuffed with dried vegetables at New Year, let them think 214

about it at New Year time. Who knew what kind of a world it would be then? She felt no desire to rise from her bed. Little Precious and Niu Niu dared not go outside their gate. Japanese had moved into house Number One. There were two men, two young women, an old woman, and two boys of about eight or nine years of age. The first to feel the oppression of their moving in was Sergeant Pai. Kuan the Morning Lotus regarded himself as the Super-ser­ geant. He ordered Sergeant Pai to -clean up the Little Sheep Fold, and told , him to notify the neighbors not to let their children pass water under the locust trees; told him there must be a street light placed on one of the trees; told him to instruct the water carriers that no matter how dry the weather, no matter how low the water in the wells, they must see that Number One had enough water to use. "I tell you Sergeant Pai, the Japanese must bathe every day. They use a lot of water. Other families can wait but Number One must never lack for water." Although the others in the Little Sheep Fold did not receive this kind of direct pressure they, nevertheless, felt spiritually op­ pressed. Because Peiping had been the capital for many centuries the people of Peiping did not count foreigners as outsiders. The people of the Little Sheep Fold would never have looked out of the corners of their eyes at an English family, or a Turkish family, but they felt an unease in their hearts because of this family of Japanese. They knew that the Japanese had first conquered Peiping and then moved in. They had to admit that their neighbor was also their conqueror. They had heard something about how the Japanese had conquered Korea, how they had taken Formosa, and of how they ill-treated the people of Korea and Formosa; and now those who had ill-treated the Koreans and the Formosans had come and were before their own eyes . They felt that they were not neigh­ bors only but that they must also be spies. When they looked at Number One they felt that they were looking at a time bomb. The two men of house Number One were both small merchants and about thirty years of age. Early every morning they and the two children, each wearing only a very short pair . of pan ts, did their drill under the locust trees. The orders for the drill were broad­ cast. All the Japanese in the city drilled at this time. At about seven o'clock in the morning the two children with their books on their backs shot like arrows from their gate and ran toward the main street. They would push between people's legs into the tram cars, not as though they were entering a car, but as though they were wooden wedges driven in. No matter how 21 5

many were in the tram or outside the tram they would force their way in. After school they would take over the chest of the gourd, the open space in the Little Sheep Fold. They would run races. They would climb the trees. They would roll on the ground. Sometimes they fought until their heads were broken and bloody. Whatever they wanted to do, they did. They played as though they had been born the rulers of the place. If they felt like climbing someone's wall, or knifing someone's dog, they would without the least hesitation do it at once. Their women always smiled at the little boys. Even when they had broken their heads the women would with great politeness come out, and bind up the wounds, and dare not scold them. They were Japanese males, and Japanese male children must be the heroes of the future who would be able to kill people without blinking their eyes . The two men went out at about eight o'clock in the morning, and returned about five in the afternoon . They always went out and came back together, and as they walked they talked in low voices. Even if they met a dog they would stop talking at once. They wanted always to stick out their chests and look down on everyone, and walk with the German goose step and a clatter of leather shoes, but when they met people they instinctively bent their heads as if they were ashamed of their own evil hearts . They did not greet their neighbors. Their neighbors did not greet them. They seemed to feel lonely, but yet they seemed to have a certain enjoyment of their own. Of all in the Little Sheep Fold only Kuan the Morning Lotus had anything to do with them. Every two or three days he would take a couple of melons or a few flowers, and visit house Number One. They never took presents to him. The only reward for Morn­ ing Lotus was that when he came out of their house the whole family would accompany him to the gate where they would bow deeply to him. His bow would be even deeper than theirs. When he had finished his bow he would walk very, very slowly to his own house so that the neighbors could see that he had just come out of house Number One, and that even though he had just come out of house Number One he could still keep his calm and walk slowly. And times when he did not take a present to the Japanese he would be walking under the locust trees about the time when the Japanese were to come back home so he could bow to them. If under the trees he met those two children whom no one liked, he would play with them . Sometimes the two children would run from a distance and butt their heads with full force into his stomach and make him gasp. Sometimes they would pur216

p osely touch his snow-white gown with their dirty hands. He would always s mile and pat their heads . If a neighbor was passing he would sa y, "These two children are interesting, very interesting." The neighbors disagreed completely with Mr. Kuan's "interest­ ing." They disliked those two boys at least as much as they dis­ liked Kuan the Morning Lotus . Those two children not only butted their heads into Mr. Kuan, they also butted other people. They liked especially to butt Fourth Mistress Li and little children. Once they knocked Little Precious down and rode on him, catching his hair as reins. Little Precious being a Chinese boy could meet danger only with the cry, "Mother." The Mother of Little Precious came running out, and seeing that he had been made into a horse, flared up immediately. In the past when Little Precious had fought with other children, she would pull him back to their home, and never put the blame on the other children; but today she did not deal with it this way­ Little Precious was being ridden as a horse by Japanese children. She ran over, and seizing the horseman, pushed him aside so that he fell on the ground. She stretched out her hand, and pulled Little Precious up; then she stood, holding him by the hand, and waited to see whether the two little enemies would attack again or not. The two Japanese boys looked at her, and said nothing, and went toward their home. She waited for them, thinking that they were going to tell the grown people, but they did not come out. She relaxed and began to scold Little Precious, "Have you no fists? Why did you not strike them?" Little Precious began again to cry. "Cry, cry, all you know is to cry." Angrily she pulled him home. Old Man Chi was not pleased that Yun Mei should plant enmity in this way. She became more angry. She never talked back to the old people, but today it was as though she had an anger that could not be controlled and made her forget her ordinary manners . Her voice was not loud, but all could hear her stubborn anger. ''l don't care. If they had not been Japanese boys I might have smiled and let it go, but since they were Japanese boys I had to challenge them." The old man saw that his grandson's wife was really angry, and dared not say more. He took Little Precious into his own room and said to him, "Can't you play in our own courtyard? Why do you go out and get into trouble? They are unreasonable. My dear, you must not go out and be at a disadvantage." As soon as Rey Shuan came home in the evening Old Man Chi 217

said to him in a low voice, "Little Precious' Mother had some trouble today." Rey Shuan was startled . He knew that Yun Mei was not one to seek trouble. "What happened?" he asked anxiously. The old man told him of the battle under the locust trees. Rey Shuan smiled. "Grandfather, don't worry. There's nothing to it, nothing to it. It would be just as well to let Little Precious practice fighting." Old Man Chi did not understand what his grandson meant. According to the way he saw things he should take the great-grand­ son to Number One, and apologize, but he did not say anything. He did not want to quarrel with his grandson because of his own desire to be careful. Rey Shuan did not want to give thought to this small matter, but he could not help having a slight feeling of elation. He saw from this small incident that no matter how peace-loving a person is, if cornered, he can also resist. The whole summer Rey Shuan seemed to have forgotten how to smile. He could not compose himself to read. Eight out of ten times he would meet those two Japanese men as he went out in the mornings or came back in the evenings. It was true that there were Japanese in every part of the city, but to meet them in one's own Little Sheep Fold, made him especially unhappy. He did not know what to do when he met them. He would not nod or bow to them, nor would he stare angrily at them. This was a small and unimportant matter, but it embarrassed him. He was especially unhappy on Sundays. Little Precious and Niu Niu would beg him, "Father, let's go somewhere. We haven't seen the monkeys in the park for a long time." How could he not listen to the pleadings of his children, but he knew that all the parks, and the Temple of Heaven, and the zoo were entirely Japanese worlds on Sundays. Japanese women-those always-smiling little porcelain dolls, dressed most gaily, carrying their babies on their backs, carrying bottles of wine and boxes of food in their hands; and Japanese men-followed by their women who were always their slaves; and the children who were never still a minute; went every­ where in groups. Wherever the scenery was best or the flowers most beautiful, they were there, with their wine, the wine that makes small men feel big. They drank and then went madly everywhere; swaying from east to west, they would throw the bottles on the paths or into the flower beds . Then, having with great difficulty got through Sunday, there was another great difficulty with which he must deal when he went 218

to work on Monday. There was no way to avoid Mr. Goodrich, for Mr. Goodrich would not leave Peiping even in the summer vacation. He considered Peiping the best summer resort. "Tsingtao? Mokanshan? Peitaiho? Pooh !" he would puff. "Those places are not China. If I wanted to look at foreign houses could I not go back to England?" He would not leave Peiping. "Peiping," he said, "is a great flower. The Purple Forbidden City and the Three Seas are the heart of the flower. Other places are the petals and the sepals. The White Dagoba in the North Sea Park is the pistil stretching upward toward the sky. Yes, Peiping is a great flower." He would not take a summer holiday, and he would come every day to the Embassy to see what was going on, and whenever he came he would make wounds in Rey Shuan's heart. "Oh, ho, Anking has fallen! " Mr. Goodrich would shout the minute he saw Rey Shuan. Mr. Goodrich did not wish to make Rey Shuan miserable, and he was really concerned about China, but he could not help blurt­ ing out the news of the day. Although Rey Shuan understood Mr. Goodrich, he could not help feeling the thorns in Mr. Goodrich's words. "Oh, ho, the fort at Matang has gone! " ''Yo, ho, they are fighting in the streets of Kiukiang!" "Yo, ho, Lu An has fallen! " There was certain t o b e bad news every few days. Rey Shuan could not lift his head. He had to admit that these were facts, and hang­ ing his head he dared not look Mr. Goodrich in the face. Rumors of peace were many. The Peiping newspapers all talked of peace. The foreign diplomats in Peiping were sure that if the Japanese got to Hankow the Chinese National Government would not move again. Even Mr. Goodrich thought that peace was not far away. He did not like the Japanese, but he thought it would be good if less of the blood of those he loved was shed. He hinted at this several times to Rey Shuan, but Rey Shuan never answered; for according to him should peace be made at this time, the Japa­ nese would but plot another invasion, and if they invaded again, they would not only kill more Chinese, they would also drive the English and the Americans from China. In his heart Rey Shuan would say, "When that happens, even you, Mr. Goodrich, will have to pack and go away." On the anniversary of the "incident" at the Marco Polo Bridge, Rey Shuan heard the broadcast from the National Government, "China will continue to fight." Rey Shuan's eyes brightened . He felt that the sufferings of the summer had gone completely, gone beyond the sky. He asked for a half day's leave. He did not want to see the Chinese people and the Chinese students go again to 219

the Gate of Heavenly Peace for another of those meetings. He had to stay at home and avoid that. He wanted to print all the broad­ casts from the National Government, and distribute them to every­ body in Peiping, but he had no way to print, nor did he dare to run the risk.

Chapter Five

e Rey Shuan said tostillhim,came"Everyone often to see Rey Shuan. One day with a heart should leave HENG CHANG SHUN

Peiping." Chang Shun's eyes brightened. "I should go?" Rey Shuan nodded. "Good, I'll go right away." After Chang Shun left Rey Shuan began to worry, and for sev­ eral days in succession had Yun Mei go over to see if Chang Shun had left yet or not. Chang Shun had not gone. Rey Shuan was puzzled. Sometime later, on a day when it looked as though it would rain, Chang Shun came again. Rey Shuan did not dare to ask Chang Shun why he had not gone for fear of making him unhappy, but Chang Shun did not wait for Rey Shuan to ask him. With his face flushed, and his nasal tones more pronounced than ever, he said, "Mr. Chi, I cannot go." Rey Shuan did not smile or say anything, but only nodded his head in sympathy. Chang Shun continued, 'The grandmother has some money, all in national currency. She will not let it out to interest, nor will she put it in the Postal Savings Bank. She keeps it herself. Only when the money is in her own hands is she satisfied." "Old people are all like that," Rey Shuan said. Chang Shun seeing that Rey Shuan understood old people spoke more freely. "I didn't know how much money my grandmother had, she never told me." "That's the way it is. No one else ever knows where the old people have hidden their money, nor how much there is." "That's exactly the trouble." Chang Shun wiped his nose on his sleeve. ''Didn't the Japanese make a proclamation a few months ago telling us all to change the national bills to the new currency? I told my grandmother as soon as I saw the proclamation, but it was as though she did not hear." 'The old, of course, would not trust the foreign devil's money!" 220

"Exactly, so I did not urge her. I thought that perhaps she did not have much in her hands, and that whether it was changed or not would not make much difference. Then when the matter of changing money became more acute ; I urged her. One day my grandmother told me that she had bought five catties of millet from a countryman who had said, in a low voice, that he wanted national currency; and so she is more unwilling than ever to let national currency out of her hands . Two days ago when Sergeant Pai was making his rounds he stood at our gate, and talked awhile with Grandmother, and so she found out that the time for chang­ ing the bills had passed, and that anyone found still using the national currency would get a year in prison . Grandmother wept the whole night through. She has altogether a thousand dollars, all in one dollar bills : new ones of the Bank of Communications. She has a thousand dollars, and yet she has not a single one. After she lost her money she began to curse the Japanese devils, and she says that she will go to fight the Japanese to the death. I couldn't go with my grandmother in trouble like this. That money was my grandmother's entire fortune. That money lost, the three meals a day for the two of us immediately became a problem. I must find a way to support my grandmother. She supported me from child­ hood to this age; now is the time I should repay what she has done for me." There were two bright tears in the corners of Chang Shun's eyes . Wringing his hands, he waited for Rey Shuan to speak. Rey Shuan rose, and walked up and down the room. He saw himself again in Chang Shun. Family and filial piety had chained them both to the Little Sheep Fold. He sighed, and said to Chang Shun, "Give that thousand dollars to someone you know from Shan tung province or Shensi. They can take the money to parts of the country where the Japanese have not penetrated, where a dollar is still a dollar. Of course, they will not be able to change a dollar for a full dollar, but to take a discount is better than to throw them all away." "That's right, that's right." Chang Shun lifted his head, and fixed his eyes on Rey Shuan's face, as if each word he said was cer­ tainly ten-parts true. ''I know Manager Yang. He is a Shantung man. He will help me with this, but, Mr. Chi, what can I do to earn money?" Rey Shuan could not imagine what would be a suitable profes­ sion for Chang Shun. "Let's think it over," he said. "That's right, you think for me, and I will think also." Chang Shun wiped the sweat from his nose, and then said in a low voice, 22 1

"Mr. Chi, you are not laughing at me because I am unable to leave?" Rey Shuan smiled sadly, "We are goods of the same variety." "What?" Chang Shun did not understand what Rey Shuan meant. "Nothing of importance." Rey Shuan did not want to explain . "Tell your grandmother not to worry. See you tomorrow." Chang Shun's affairs were going round and round in Rey Shuan's mind when Scholar Yeh came to visit him. Scholar Yeh's clothes were whole and presentable, but his face was greener than ever. When he came into the room and sat down, his eyes stopped moving and his thin lips closed tightly. He tried several times to speak, but each time he opened his mouth he shut it again quickly. Rey Shuan noticed that when he took up the tea­ cup his hand trembled. "Have you been well since I saw you?" Rey Shuan hoped to draw his visitor out, with gentle questions. Scholar Yeh' s eyes began to move again, and he smiled slightly. "If one does not die in times like this, it can be counted as living peacefully. Rey Shuan, have you seen my brother-in-law?" "Several friends have seen him, but I haven't myself. I have looked everywhere for him, but I have not been able to find him." Scholar Yeh moistened his lips, and said quickly, "Yes, yes, I've done the same thing. Two friends, artists, told me they had seen him." "Where?" "At the exhibition of paintings. You know, Rey Shuan, my brother-in-law can paint." Rey Shuan nodded. "But he had not gone to see the paintings. They told me that my brother-in-law walked very carefully around the exhibition, and then very politely called them out. He said to them, 'For what pur­ pose do you paint these birds, flowers, and mists and clouds, these hills and streams? Is it to amuse yourselves? Have you the heart to amuse yourselves while your real . mountains and rivers are run­ ning with blood, and even your birds and flowers are blown to pieces by the guns? Or are you painting for the Japanese to see and admire? The Japanese have destroyed your green hills, and red­ dened your rivers, and you still have face to paint spring blossoms and autumn moons to gladden the hearts of the Japanese. Take away these things that insult art and make you cheap . If you must paint, you should paint the blood of the battle field, and paint the heroes who resist the invasion.' When he had finished talking, 222

'

he made a deep bow and told them to think over what he had said. My friends did not know who he was, but when they described him to me, I knew that it must be my brother-in-law." "What did your two friends say about him?" "They said that he was one-half crazy." "Half crazy? Don't you think what he said was reasonable?" Scholar Yeh smiled as though to apologize for his friends. "Oh, of course, they did not say that his words were crazy. You see, the only way they can earn money to buy food is to paint and hold exhibitions. This cannot be counted as too great a crime. And they felt that if he continues to talk this way everywhere, sooner or later he will be arrested by the Japanese and killed. So, so-" "So? You wanted to find him, and urge him to be more careful?" "I urge him?" Scholar Yeh' s eyes were still again. They were like those of a dead fish . He was still for a long time, then he sighed deeply. "Rey Shuan, didn't you know that he has broken off our relationship?" "Broken off your relationship?" "Broken off." Scholar Yeh nodded several times. "My heart is a secret torture chamber where every kind of instrument, and every method of torture, is used ." He told the story of the occasion on which his brother-in-law had broken off the relationship with him. "It was all my fault. I have no face to see him again, because I cannot do as he told me to do-take off the clothes bought with Japanese money, and stop buying food for my children with J apa­ nese money. And all the time, I know that to work even a day for the Japanese, and to do one thing for them puts my name forever in the list of the traitors. I have no face to see him, but I think of him day and night. He is my relative, and also my good friend. If I could but see him I would be happy even if he slapped my face . His hand would strike away some of my mental illness, would be healing to my sick conscience, but I cannot find him. I'm worried about his safety, and his health. I'm willing to kneel down to beg him to accept money or a garment from me, but I know that he would not take anything from these soiled hands, not anything. So what would we do if we should meet? Would it not simply make my pain worse?" He drank some tea quickly and said, "There is only pain, only pain. It is as though my heart was made of pain. The children do not starve. They have clothes to wear. They run around, and dance and sing. There is flesh on their small faces. But their singing and dancing are poisoned darts in my heart. What am I to do? There is no other way for me except to think of a way to make myself without feeling, to be numb, numb, numb, 223

forever. So in order to avoid pain, I have more pain. When my heart is all pain, then I can forget what pain is." "Mr. Yeh, do you smoke opium?" Beads of sweat appeared on Rey Shuan's nose. Scholar Yeh covered his face with both hands, and did not move for a long time. "Mr. Yeh," Rey Shuan said with great sincerity, "you must not ruin yourself in this way." Scholar Yeh slowly let his hands drop, and nodding his head, said, "I know, I know. But I cannot control myself. My brother­ in-law told me that it was better to sell peanuts and melons on the street than to work for the Japanese, but those of us who are used to wearing the long gown would rather cover the national humiliation with a long gown than take off the long gown. So-I anesthetize myself. It is expensive to smoke opium. I get extra jobs. The more I do the less energy I have, and then to keep going I smoke more. Now I am busy from morning to night just to find enough money for my opium. Only after I have smoked enough am I able to forget my pain, forget myself, forget the national humiliation. Rey Shuan, I'm finished, finished." He stood up slowly. 'Tm going. If, by chance, you meet my brother-in-law, tell him my trouble and pain, my opium habit, and that I am finished." He walked out. Rey Shuan in a daze walked out with him. There was much he wanted to say but he could not say a word. Very slowly and silently the two walked out. When they reached the gate Scholar Yeh stopped suddenly and turned around. "Rey Shuan, I nearly forgot. I still owe you five dollars." His right hand went in to his coat. "Mr. Yeh, what is five dollars between us?"

Chapter Six

eANTON The Chinese army retreated from Hankow, and Chungking became the wartime capital. FELL .

The Japanese in Peiping again went mad with joy. Victory, vic­ tory, and after victory, peace-peace that would mean the capitula­ tion of China. The Peiping newspapers printed the Japanese peace terms . The Japanese did not want Canton and Hankow; they wanted only North China. The traitors also were happy. North China would be Japanese forever, and so it would also be theirs forever. There were great 224

celebrations over the retreat from Hankow. These celebrations went on day and night-shouting, laughing, and merrymaking. And the first thing that happened was a promotion for Lan the Eastern Sun. The Japanese saw North China in their grasp. Therefore, in order to keep the common people quiet, they did away even more dras­ tically with those they called rebels. They also increased and con­ solidated the organization of the New People's League. When the New People's League was reorganized they merged in it the functions of the Information Bureau, the Ministry of Social Welfare, the Political Party, and the Youth Corps. They planned to establish several departments, each department to have its own head. They planned propaganda. They planned to organize the dif­ ferent trades and professions, to establish a Young People's Society and a Children's Society. They planned the work of the New Peo­ ple's League as though it were a political party with the aim to make the Chinese into Japanese. ' At the time of the reorganization the Japanese sent for all the people who had worked in the League, and gave them an examina­ tion in order to select a few to be heads of departments, and for other important official positions. Eastern Sun's appearance took the fancy of one of the examiners. Looking as he did-three parts like a man and seven parts like an ogre-the Japanese felt that Eastern Sun's appearance was a kind of qualification and a guar­ antee. A man such as he was without doubt unadulterated traitor material. He was chosen to be head of a department. The Kuans were the first, of course, to give him a dinner in cele­ bration of his promotion . He came purposely late an hour and a half. When he finally arrived his manner was so lordly that not even all the clever and smart sayings of Morning Lotus could make him show his yellow teeth even once. As soon as he came in to the room he half-sat and half-lay on the sofa and did not say a word. When he was asked to take his seat at the table, he was too indolent to rise. At last, after being asked three or four times he wriggled himself like a caterpillar to the seat of honor. As soon as his buttocks touched the chair he put both his elbows on the table and seized a pair of chopsticks. Taking as much meat as he could at once, he put it in his mouth, and chewed and swallowed loudly as though there were no one else present. Big Red Pepper and Morning Lotus looked at each other. They decid e d to call him "Department Chief" without ceasing. They felt that being a department chief he should put on airs . If Eastern Sun had not put on airs they would have been disappointed. They 22 5

called "Department Chief" in all the ways at their command, from the lowest tones to the highest pitch. Sometimes both would call at the same time, one with a low voice, and one with a high, as if singing a duet. No matter how they addressed him Eastern Sun would not an­ swer a word. He was the chief of a department. He must maintain his dignity. A "big shot" did not talk easily. When in the middle of the meal the sweet came on, Eastern Sun suddenly stood up and started to walk out, saying only, "I have business." After he had gone Morning Lotus could not stop praising his appearance. "As soon as I became acquainted with him, I saw that the appearance of Department Chief Lan was unusual. Did you see it also? Although his face is quite green, if you look closely you will see some purple underneath. That is called a 'mercury powder' face, and means that he will certainly get a position of power." Big Red Pepper was more practical. "What does the kind of face he has matter? The headship of a department is goods of ten-parts pure quality." She waited only until she and Morning Lotus were alone in the room and said to him. "I think we had best give Kaodee to Eastern Sun. A department head is after all bigger than a section chief." "Yes, yes. Go and talk to her about it. That child, always stub­ born and refusing to listen to what she's told." "I have my plans . Don't you worry." Kaodee had not been disobedient once only. She would not do as her mother told her. She would not make an effort to ensnare General Barren Hill. Whenever General Barren Hill came, he would immediately go into Kaodee's room whether she was fully dressed or not, or even if she was still sleeping on her bed. He regarded himself as practically her husband. He would throw him­ self on her bed as soon as he entered the room, and if he was feel­ ing happy, he would chat with her. If he was feeling otherwise, he would just watch her-his two eyes constantly on her. He was used to brothels, used to living with prostitutes, and he thought that all women were more or less like prostitutes. Kaodee could not endure this treatment. She protested to her mother. Big Red Pepper self-righteously lectured her daughter. "You are stupid. Think! Wasn't it with his help that I got the position of Director of the Bureau? And you-you do not have the beauty of one of the Immortal Maidens. He is a section chief. I can see nothing unsuitable in this match. Open your eyes and look at the facts. Don't close your eyes and dream. He shares the ac22 6

counts with me-three-tenths of the money-and I am the one who gets tired. He gets the money for nothing. Am I a deaf-mute to eat gall, and say nothing? If you understood reason, you would marry him. After that, would he have the face to split accounts with his mother-in-law?" Since her protests were useless, Kaodee naturally drew closer to Peach Blossom, and this made Big Red Pepper hate Peach Blos­ som all the more, and plan vigorously to drive her to a brothel. In order to help Peach Blossom, Kaodee decided not to be with her too much, so all she could do when General Barren Hill lay on her bed was to take her parasol and leather bag, and go out. Once she went out it would be for the day. Since Kaodee avoided him in this way, Big Red Pepper could only get Meydee to appease General Barren Hill. She was not willing to let Meydee go easily, but she dared not offend General Barren Hill absolutely, for if he was offended, her rice bowl was broken. From the time her mother became Director of the Bureau Meydee was daily with the prostitutes, chatting and laughing, and had already lost her ingenuous maiden beauty. In the past her most romantic dream had been much the same as that of any young girl student. Novels and movies were the materials from which her dreams were made. She liked to dress up and decorate herself, liked to have men friends, yet she had not thought of the relations be­ tween men and women, and the problems. Now, seeing prostitutes everyday, she suddenly grew up. From the prostitutes she learned no longer to dream of romance; she wanted to try bold action im­ mediately. To be entirely truthful, her clothes and hairdo were still modern and such as were worn by the best families; they had not been in­ fluenced by the prostitutes who dressed in bold but old-fashioned styles. In expression and language, however, she had changed greatly. She imitated the prostitutes' ways of talking and shame­ lessly admired her own boldness, smacking her lips over the impli­ cations of the obscene words she used. The small amount of edu­ cation she had received in the schools was not enough to enable her to distinguish good from bad, right from wrong. She obeyed her mother's order to appease General Barren Hill. Whenever General Barren Hill looked at a woman he could im­ mediately see her most secret places. In this respect he was very like Japanese men . When Meydee came to entertain him he would immediately seize her hand and kiss her, and feel her body. He had long wanted to do this to Kaodee but she had refused to listen 227

to him, and now he was able to do these things to Meydee who was more beautiful and younger than Kaodee. He was elated and went straightway to the shops and bought silk for three dresses . Big Red Pepper was startled when she saw the silk. Meydee was her treasure and was not for Barren Hill to possess, but silk was­ after all-silk. Silk spoke fair words for General Barren Hill, and she was unable to tell Meydee to refuse. She · also believed that Meydee was clever and would certainly not allow herself to be taken advantage of. Therefore Big Red Pepper did not say any­ thing. Meydee did not like General Barren Hill. She had no idea of marrying him. She wanted only to be adventurous, to experience the most stimulating pleasures. No one except General Barren Hill had dared to put his hands on her. Well, what was wrong with that? More than once she had seen her father secretly kissing prosti­ tutes . She had now dared greatly, and it seemed there was nothing very much wrong about it, nor of any very great consequence. After the fall of Hankow the Japanese speeded up their drive to clear out the "rebels" who might be in hiding in Peiping, and took a census to help in finding them. They arrested people in droves. General Barren Hill was busy. He had no time to lie on Kaodee' s bed. He arrested people indiscriminately. He arrested many and then he would bargain with them one by one. Those who were willing to pay would be released at once. Those who had no money, whether they had committed any crime or not would lose their lives. He was as courageous in butchering the innocent as he was in stretching forth his hand to touch women. Big Red Pepper, seeing that General Barren Hill had not come for several days, was worried. Had her daughters offended him? She sent Meydee to see him. "I tell you Meydee, my dear, go and see him. Say to him, 'Hankow is finished,' and that many people are here celebrating and without him we cannot be happy. Invite him, tell him-ten thousand-he must come. Wear one of the dresses he gave you." After she had . sent Meydee off she called Kaodee and said, "Kaodee, your mother wants to say a few words to you . I see that you do not like General Barren Hill. I will not try to force you. Lan the Eastern Sun is now a Department Chief. I think you could be satisfied with him. He is not careful about cleanliness but that is because he is not married . If he had a wife to look after him he would not be that dirty. Truly, if he were dressed up carefully he would be very smart looking. And he is young, has ability-is now already a Department Chief. Who knows but that he may become 228

a governor. Good girl, listen to your mother. Make friends with him. If you marry successfully, won't the whole family enjoy pros­ perity with you?" When she had finished speaking she beat her breast lightly as though she were very tired. Kaodee said nothing. She wanted first to consult Peach Blossom. Seizing an opportunity when Big Red Pepper was not at home Kaodee and Peach Blossom walked on the canal outside the Western Straight Gate of the city. They walked slowly and talked heart-to-heart. The canal was about half a mile from the city gate and it was very quiet along the banks. Not a single person passed them. The old willow trees on the banks had lost all their leaves, and there were only a few dried leaves left in the lotus ponds on the southern side of the canal. In the middle of a pond a white heron stood quietly. The banks of the canal were damp, and here and there were snails half in the mud and half out, but there were no children digging for them. Autumn had given the suburbs of Peiping a feeling of sadness and loneliness, not at all as it should be around a capital city. When they had walked awhile they picked a very large willow tree and sat down on the exposed roots. "I've changed my mind. I'm not going away." Peach Blossom knitted her brows and smoked her cigarette. "That's good. If you went away and left me alone, I would be lost." Peach Blossom half-closed her eyes and watched the smoke curling from her nostrils. There was a slight smile on her face as: though she was enjoying Kaodee's confidences. Kaodee' s short nose wrinkled. "But if Mother should really drive: you away, and send you to-" . Peach Blossom threw the cigarette down and ground it to pieces under her heel. ''I'll wait for her to make the first move. I have my plans all made. I'm not afraid of her. You know that I have long been thinking of running away, but you would not come with me, so I have been thinking what I could do outside. It is true that I can sing, but what kind of a life would it be to run away from Peiping and have to sing for a living? It would be different if you would go with me. You, at least, can write a bit and keep accounts. If you got some work I would be happy to wash your clothes and dishes and be your maid. I'm sure that we two could live quite com­ fortably. But you are unwilling to leave and I cannot go alone." "I can't bear to leave Peiping, and I can't bear to leave home." Kaodee very simply told the truth. Peach Blossom smiled. "Peiping is occupied by the Japanese; 229

your mother wants you to marry the executioner; and you still say that you cannot bear to leave them." Kaodee hugged her knees and sat silent. She was silent for a long time and then she said, "Didn't you say that you had changed your mind?" Peach Blossom lifted her head and threw back her hair. "Don't consider me. I have my own way of doing things." "What way?" "I can't tell you." "Well, I have my way also. I will not marry Barren Hill, and I will not r,narry Eastern Sun. I'll marry the one I want to marry." Peach Blossom said nothing for quite a while. Kaodee repeated, ''I'll marry the one I want to marry." "But can you go against your family? What you eat and drink is theirs, and you have to listen to them." Peach Blossom's voice was very low, but what she said was said with great sincerity. " I will not b e able t o help you, Kaodee. I have my own work. If I were you I would go away immediately. There are many many women helping the men to fight the Japanese in Manchuria. Why don't you join them? Only by going away can you be free. Don't you believe me?'' "What are you really doing? Why won't you help me?" Peach Blossom shook her head and shut her mouth tightly. After a long time Peach Blossom took off a small ring, and put it in Kaodee's hand and then held it with both of hers. "Kaodee, from now on we must not talk together at home. They all know that we are friends, and if we are together they will become suspicious. If I do not talk with you, then perhaps they will think that we are no longer friends, and so perhaps, they will let me stay a little longer. Keep this ring to remember me." Kaodee was frightened. "You-you are thinking of suicide." Peach Blossom smiled sadly. "I will .not commit suicide." When they reached home the sun was about to set. Meydee had not come home. Big Red Pepper wanted very much to keep calm but she did not succeed. She began to walk slowly in the courtyard, and as she walked she thought of ways to deal with General Barren Hill. She had been, all her life, a "bare stick" working alone and ac­ complishing things; and now she had lost face. She shouted for her coat, and when she had put it on she wanted to go out and hunt for General Barren Hill, and fight him to the death, but she did not leave the courtyard. She knew that Barren Hill was a man who would not treat a woman as a woman. If she struck him, he 2 30

would certainly return the blows. If she went to see him she would lose still more face. Morning Lotus had seen for some time that his wife was not at peace. He even seemed to get some enjoyment out of her dis­ comfiture. Big Red Pepper and Barren Hill were officials and he still had no job. He would enjoy seeing these two officials fighting like two fierce dogs. He had no concern for his daughter. To lose his daughter was much like losing his country. He could calmly admit the facts, and it was not necessary to stir up the emotions. Morning Lotus saw that a storm was near, and quickly tightened his face and knitted his eyebrows, pretending that he was worried about Meydee. Big Red Peppds thunder crashed. "I did not bring Meydee with me from my mother's house. She is a virgin of the Kuan family, and you are not worried." "I am very much worried ." Morning Lotus' face was very sad. "But Meydee often goes out alone and comes back late." "But today is not the same as other days. Today she went to see-" Big Red Pepper did not dare go on but spat instead . " I didn't tell her to go." Big Red Pepper took up a teacup and hurled it across the room. It crashed; the cup and a glass in the window broke to pieces . On top of this nois·e she shouted, "What kind of a Thing are you? From morning to night I work inside the home and out, and you stay at home and do nothing. Have you a heart at all?" Dr. Kao was taking a nap in the inner room after having smoked several pipes of opium. The sound of breaking glass woke him. He yawned slowly, rubbed his eyes, took a drink from the spout of the little teapot, and then sat up. In three sentences and a couple of words he understood the whole situation. He volunteered to look for Meydee. Morning Lotus wanted also to go. If Meydee had indeed fallen into the net he would immediately demand that Barren Hill kowtow to him as father-in-law, and take the opportunity to state his conditions-namely, that Barren Hill should give him a position as an official in which he would receive a salary but do no work. He thought that if he could by seizing this opportunity get a posi­ tion, Meydee's misdeeds could become something with which to glorify the ancestors . But Big Red Pepper would not allow him to go. She wanted him at home so she could curse him with full force. Dr. Kao smiled at Morning Lotus and went out. Behind Big Red Pepper's back Dr. Kao had many times invited women for Barren Hill and he knew the place where Barren Hill 231

entertained them. It was a student hostel near the Western Single Arch. In the past this had been a hostel for students, and had had a good reputation for sobriety and decency and respectability. The hostel was empty after the war started so General Barren Hill took it over. There was not a single day that Dr. Kao did not watch for an opportunity to defeat Big Red Pepper. Because of this he had been especially anxious to curry favor with Barren Hill. He knew that Barren Hill liked women; in his mind he tied Barren Hill and women into one knot. Big Red Pepper had assigned the work of handling the "dark doors" to Dr. Kao, so while working for Big Red Pepper he was able to cater to Barren Hill. "Section Chief, I have a new plan. I would like your honorable opinion about it. Whenever there is a new 'dark door' opened, I will first bring her to you, so that you, Section Chief, can 'baptize' her. How about it?" General Barren Hill did not know the term "baptize," but when Dr. Kao gently folded back his sleeves and winked, Barren Hill understood. He laughed so hard he could not close his mouth. When with great difficulty he had stopped laughing, he said, "Yon have used much thought for me. How shall I reward yon? Shall I give you some opium?" Dr. Kao sprang back quickly and decisively, and made a nega­ tive gesture with his hands. "Reward? What reward? In your posi­ tion it is for others to do things for you. Whatever I can do for you is my work. How can there be talk of reward? Section Chief, if you are so ceremonious, I will not dare come again ." This line of flattery made Barren Hill almost forget his own surname. Patting Dr. Kao's shoulder he said to him, "My brother, my brother." So Dr. Kao began to send women to this hostel . Dr. Kao's calculations were accurate. If Meydee had really fallen into the trap she would be in this hostel. Before he reached the hostel, General Barren Hill and Meydee had already amused them­ selves there for three hours. Meydee was wearing the dress Barren Hill had given her and a pair of the highest heeled shoes which suddenly gave her a greatly increased height. She stretched her small white neck and held high her not yet fully matured breasts . It seemed as if she wanted to become a ripe little woman in a few hours . Gleams of light floated from her black eyes as she looked to the east and to the west to show her great boldness, but in it was also a lack of confidence. She had painted her lips especially red and especially wide as if she would use her lips to bolster her courage. Her hair was done in long 232

curls, some of which fell on her neck, and above her forehead it was done high. From time to time she would look upward as if to see that hair. Her hair was high, her heels were high, and with her outstretched neck and her high-held breasts, she felt that she was grown-up, and should have the courage to do what the grown-ups did. Barren Hill did not wait for her to say anything but took her immediately to the hostel . She knew that she was falling into the well, and was frightened, but she would not show her weakness and run away, but on the contrary held her breasts even higher. Her eyes could not see clearly what was before them but moved constantly. Her throat was dry and from time to time she coughed slightly, and after coughing she would smile without any cause . Her heart beat fast, and she felt that her body was lifting upward as if she were going to fly into the sky. She was frightened but she was excited. Her quickly beating heart seemed about to split in two. She sobered a bit when they reached the hostel, and thought of running away, but she felt a lassitude that kept her from moving. She looked at Barren Hill and felt that he was coarse and un­ pleasant. He smelled badly. Two plain-clothes men were already on guard in the courtyard. She pretended to be calm, and looked at her face with a small mirror. She hummed a well-known song from the movies . She thought that if she showed the dignity of a modern young woman it might perhaps stop Barren Hill's attack. She now treasured herself. Eventually, however, she got what she wanted. When it was over, she regretted it very much, and shed tears. General Barren Hill had never been moved by any tears that women shed. Women once fallen into his hands should be like cotton wool and take whatever shape he wanted. He had no gentleness and was even proud of his toughness and lack of feeling. His proudest and most sophisticated saying was, "Do not show feeling to a woman. If you break her legs she will love you the more."

Chapter Seven

W face and apply lipstick to give the appearance that nothing HEN MEYDEE SAW

Dr. Kao come in she began to powder her

had happened. She had often seen her parents-when they had lost face-act in this way. This acting calmed her, and she felt that since she had had her adventure, she would now let whatever fol­ lowed take care of itself. She greeted Dr. Kao in a matter of fact 233

way as if to tell him, "If you know, all right; if you don't know, all right. In any case I do not care." Dr. Kao had seen to the bottom of this affair with one glance. He started praising Meydee's beauty and courage to let her know that he was her friend, and that he would do his best to help her; that is, if she should need any help. Meydee began to feel happy as she listened to Dr. Kao's chatter, and she began to laugh and talk as if it would be all right for her to stay with Barren Hill forever. She looked again at herself in the little mirror. Her eyes, nose, and mouth were all so beautiful, she felt that with such beauty she could never meet troubles or mis­ fortune. When he considered that he had talked long enough to Meydee, Dr. Kao winked at her and took General Barren Hill into another room. As soon as they were through the door he made three deep ceremonious bows, congratulating Barren Hill. Barren Hill did not think there was anything worth congratu­ lations. Women were women, all more or less alike. He had not found anything exceptional in Meydee's body. All he said was, "Very troublesome." "Troublesome? Why?" Dr. Kao asked. "She is not a professional. Troublesome." Barren Hill sat in a big chair as if very tired. "Section Chief" -there was a serious expression on Dr. Kao' s thin face-"weren't you planning to marry a modern wife? In your position you should have a formal wife. Miss Meydee is beautiful and young, why not marry her?" Dr. Kao's words brought a smile to Barren Hill's face but he still continued to say, "Troublesome, troublesome." He was near to forgetting what it was that he had thought troublesome but it seemed that having taken this word he could think of no other. When Dr. Kao saw that the Section Chief was smiling he went quickly over, and putting his mouth to Barren Hill's ears he said, "Wasn't she really a virgin?" The big body of Barren Hill writhed like a snake, and he poked his elbow into Dr. Kao's ribs . "You, you! " Then he smiled and said, "You! " " I f only for this, Section Chief, i s i t not worth while t o enter­ tain your friends to a wedding feast?" Dr. Kao started again to fold up his sleeves, and he smiled so much that the opium dust fell off his face. "Troublesome." General Barren Hill's mind had discovered no new word. 2 34

"Not troublesome." Dr. Kao suddenly became serious. "Not at all troublesome. You notify the Kuans. No matter how much Big Red Pepper carried on she would not dare to fight you." "Of course." Barren Hill nodded in entire agreement. "Then the two families send out invitations. Everything can be left to Morning Lotus to manage. While we sit enjoying ourselves everything will be done. Morning Lotus loves to manage such affairs and he knows how. We must first ask the Kuans for the dowry. I tell you, Section Chief, with your help Big Red Pepper has already made a lot of money. You should make her spit up some of it. When we have made a good bargain, and when the lucky day comes, I'll keep the accounts . When I settle the ac­ counts I'll hand over all the lucky scrolls and the banners to the Kuans, but give you the ready cash . If Big Red Pepper dares to say that we should divide equally-well, let her see our revolvers. This is a piece of real luck and no mistake." Barren Hill smiled when he heard this speech, but he still said, "Troublesome, troublesome." "Not a bit troublesome." The more Dr. Kao talked the more powerful were his arguments. "Leave it to me. First of all, appoint me as your go-between. There's only Big Red Pepper who is dif­ ficult to deal with, and if she dares even to bristle, you can chop off her directorship. Now we're merely chatting, but suppose we do chop her off, and you would like to do me a favor-I would not give you only a three-tenths cut. I would take out whatever I could for you. I would not, like Big Red Pepper, be one who forgets kindness and has no gratitude. However, this is all side talk. Section Chief, you mustn't think that I am trying to push Big Red Pepper out. We'll return to our original subject. Hand everything over to me, I am sure that I can handle everything to your satisfaction." "Troublesome." Barren Hill was very much pleased with Dr. Kao's line of reasoning, but to show that he could think, he was not willing to agree immediately. "If one once has a family, one is not free any longer." Dr. Kao laughed lightly. "Section Chief, could a family tie down a person such as you or me? If I don't know anything else, at least I have been in Japan ." "I n J apan, you.7" "I was• there awhile," Dr. Kao said modestly, but proudly. " I know the ways of the Japanese. If Japanese men bring strange women to their homes, their wives must make their beds for them . That is the right way to do things ." Dr. Kao pointed to the next room. "She is a modern girl, probably will be jealous, but you need 23 5

only discipline her a time or two and she will be biddable and listen to what you say. Beat her, bite her, pinch her-there are all good ways to teach. When you have finished teaching her, buy her some clothes or jewels-anything, and she will exchange tears for laughter. If you act this way she will not limit your freedom, and at the big banquets or when you entertain the Japanese, you will have a very smart young wife to show off. How wonderful! Not troublesome at all, not troublesome. What's more, I'll tell you something else very pleasant. If you should tire of her-really tire of her-you could just give her to a Japanese. I tell you, Section Chief, with the Japanese occupying Peiping we have indeed every convenience." Barren Hill laughed and agreed with Dr. Kao's last suggestion. "Section Chief, it's agreed." Dr. Kao went out with quick light steps . From outside the window he called in to Meydee, "Miss Second, I'll take word to your family that you are not returning today." Without waiting for Meydee to say anything he left. He hired a rickshaw and returned to the Kuan home, and smiled all the way. He did not stop smiling until he entered the Kuan gate. It was very quiet in the compound. Peach Blossom and Kaodee were already in bed and asleep, and there was light in the northern rooms only. B ig Red Pepper was stiII sitting in the main room. All the powder on her face had disappeared, and the dark and yellow wrinkles and the big black freckles showed, and her nose was shiny. Morning Lotus was walking back and forth in the room, and from time to time he looked at her. When Dr. Kao entered, Morning Lotus with a sincere and composed manner asked what had happened. Dr. Kao paid no attention to Morning Lotus but went straight to the inner room, saying, "I must first smoke." Big Red Pepper followed him, and after Dr. Kao had had a pipe she asked, "How is it? Did you find them?" While very slowly taking the opium from the little jar he said, "I found them. Miss Second said she would not come back today." Big Red Pepper felt that there were many hands slapping her face. Like a peal of thunder she roared, "Morning Lotus, send for a car." This thunder brought Dr. Kao to his feet. "What for?'' With one hand on her hip and the other pointing at the opium lamp, Big Red Pepper said, "I'm going to fight that Barren HiII. I'll find him." ·

Dr. Kao stood up. "Director, it was with the agreement of Miss Second." "You talk nonsense. I know the child I brought up." There was a layer of frost on Big Red Pepper's face, but her shaking finger still pointed at the opium lamp. "Morning Lotus, call a car." Morning Lotus peered into the room. Big Red Pepper faced Morning Lotus. "You useless Thing, your daughter has been stolen and you hide your head like a turtle. Are you a man-a man? Speak up." "Never mind what I am." Morning Lotus said this with great composure. ·"We should first talk it over and decide how we should settle the matter. What's the use of losing one's temper?" Big Red Pepper stood still. Dr. Kao took over the conversation . "Director, don't be angry. Your own health is important. If you are angry, you will become ill." He brought a chair and helped her to sit down . Big Red Pepper moaned. Dr. Kao continued, "I have a suggestion, a small suggestion which I offer for your consideration . Firstly-the times we are in are times of freedom, and so Miss Meydee hasn't done much wrong. Secondly-with the name and position you hold, even if Miss Meydee has been indiscreet, no one will dare say anything; so don't let that worry you. Thirdly-even if Barren Hill did wrong you, he is Section Chief of the Secret Police. Well-this match is ready­ made, the doors match the doors and the windows match the windows _ Fourthly-our Peiping is not the Peiping of the past, and we should not worry about the customs of the past. Think, Di­ rector, am I not right?" Big Red Pepper's face was long. Her eyes were fixed on the embroidery of her shoes. She did not make a sound. Morning Lotus was still standing in the doorway. He now said, "I think, Director, that we might as well give Meydee to him and call it a job." "Shut up." Dr. Kao rinsed his mouth with cold tea and spat into the spit­ toon. "Director, let me be the go-between. The quicker the matter is settled the better. The longer the sleep the more the dreams." Big Red Pepper drew a deep breath and rubbed her chest lightly with her hand. She felt suffocated. Dr. Kao quickly smoked another pipe and then took leave of Big Red Pepper. "We will talk it all over in detail tomorrow. Just don't be angry, Director." The next day Big Red Pepper got up very late. She had been 237

awake since daybreak but had been unwilling to stir. She had hoped that Meydee would come back before she got up so she could pretend that she did not know when she got back, and thus lessen the discomfort of the meeting. She waited until almost noon and still Meydee had not returned. Big Red Pepper became angry again but did not show her anger. She had cursed Morning Lotus enough the day before; if she should curse him today it would be too mo­ notonous. She wanted another target and had to choose between Peach Blossom and Kaodee. When she got up she did not trouble to wash or comb her hair but went first to Peach Blossom's room, but Peach Blossom was not there. Kaodee, her face not yet powdered, came out of her room and said, "Mother." Big Red Pepper looked at her daughter and asked, "Where is she?" "Who? You mean Peach Blossom? She and Father went out very early-probably to see Meydee. I heard Father say, 'to see the new relative.' " Big Red Pepper's head bent and her hands clenched. Kaodee moved forward a couple of steps, and although a little afraid, she said bravely, "Mother, you wanted me to be attentive to General Barren Hill. Do you think he is a good man?" Big Red Pepper lifted her head and calmly asked, "What do you mean?'' Kaodee was afraid that her mother would become angry, and quickly pretending to smile, said, "Mother, ever since the Japanese came to Peiping, the way you and Father have been doing things has been wrong. Look at the neighbors . Who among them respects us? Who does not say that we eat Japanese rice? It seems to me that General Barren Hill is not himself a powerful man . He is only a dog barking for his master. His power to oppress us is from the J apanese. Big Red Pepper laughed coldly. "Oh, you are lecturing me, are you? Wait a moment. I can face the Old Heavenly Grandfather. All my heart and work has been for this worthless herd, this family. And you lecture me. That's strange. Without me you would not have even dog's dirt to eat." Kaodee' s short nose began to perspire and she wrung her hands. "Mother, look at Chi Rey Shuan, Fourth Master Li, Sun the Seventh. They don't-they have not starved. Why should we-'� Big Red Pepper again laughed coldly. "What do you know?" Just at this moment, with a face of smiles and his little tripping steps, Morning Lotus came running in. Like a bee to a flower he 238 "

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flew immediately to Big Red Pepper. He stopped when still two steps from her. Then he said very sweetly, "Director, Second Daughter has returned." As soon as Morning Lotus had finished Meydee came in walking daintily and with an expression on her face which seemed to say that she did not know how to express herself and that yet there was no shame or fear. Her beautiful eyes moved from Kaodee to her mother, and then to the beam in the roof. Her eyes were very bright but not steady, and there was a little light that could change at any moment. She swallowed and then smiled, and said, "Mother." Big Red Pepper did not say anything. Peach Blossom had also come in. She glanced at Kaodee, then went to her own little room. "Sister." . Meydee, pretending to great vivacity, went over and took her sister's hand and began to laugh. Even she did not know what she was laughing about. Morning Lotus looked at his daughters and at his wife. His face was benign and happy. He murmured to himself, "There is no problem at all. There is a way to handle it, a way to handle it." ''Where is that beast?" Big Red Pepper asked Morning Lotus . "Beast?" Morning Lotus thought awhile before he understood. "There is no problem at all, Director. Please go and wash your face." Meydee let go her sister's hand and holding her head high, she made three steps into two and ran into her room. Before Big Red Pepper had reached her own door Dr. Kao arrived. He hurried forward to help Big Red Pepper up the steps as if she were seventy or eighty years old.

Chapter Eight

S

could not find his brother-in-law, Mr. Chien, so he was especially attentive to the grandson. Young Mrs. Chien had indeed borne a male child. When her time had drawn near Scholar Yeh had begun to buy things to hasten the birth and had taken them to the Wang home. He knew that Wang the Third had no respect for him and he wanted to regain his face. Now that his circumstances were better he wanted Wang the Third to see that he was not a person who did not know human feelings. He felt also that since young Mrs. Chien was living in her maternal home, she would feel badly if none of the Chien relatives went to CHOLAR Y E H

2 39

see her. He was happy-in the status of her husband's maternal uncle-to give her comfort and warmth of affection. On the Third Day, the Twelfth Day, on the day the child completed the Full Month, Scholar Yeh went to see the baby and took presents. He could never forget his brother-in-law, no matter how much the brother-in-law tried to break up their relationship. Ever since he had been working for the puppet government he had had no friends. In ttie past his friends had been, most of them, in the academic world . Among these many had already escaped from Peiping; some, although still in Peiping, had closed their gates and retired into research, unwilling to co-operate with the enemy; and some like himself, because of the burden of their fam­ ilies, had gone to work for the Japanese to earn money for their food. Scholar Yeh had not the face to visit those who were un­ willing to work for the enemy, and even if he met them accidentally on the street, he would bend his head and dared not greet them. He had also broken his relationship with those like himself, since when they met both parties felt uncomfortable. He had, of course, new colleagues, but colleagues are not necessarily friends. Loneliness is a kind of imprisonment. He smoked opium to overcome his loneliness and shame. When young Mrs . Chien gave birth Scholar Yeh was happy. He himself had eight children, and he did not especially like chil­ dren, but the Chien baby was very different from other babies, he was the grandson of Mr. Chien, the poet. If "Poet Chien" was written in his heart with red letters so was this "Baby Chien." To make him even more happy, Wang the Third when cele­ brating the Third Day and the Full Month did it in very fine style. If Wang the Third was willing to spend money in this way for an "outside" grandson who did not bear his name, Scholar Yeh felt that he must make friends with Wang the Third . Wang the Third was fond of face. He had hoped that when he celebrated the Third Day and the Full Month for the baby Mr. Chien would come. He could then take his in-law's hand and say to him, "See, you have trusted your daughter-in-law and grandson to me, and I have treated them well. You and I are real friends, your grandson is my grandson." But his in-law did not come. Therefore, as second best, he hoped some friend would come and be witness that he had fulfilled his old friend's trust. Scholar Yeh came, therefore, at a very opportune time. When there was some wine in Wang the Third he told Scholar Yeh plainly, "I did not think much of you in the past but now I see that you are not bad."· Thus they became friends .

If Wang the Third could so easily forgive Scholar Yeh, it could readily be imagined that he could also easily forgive the Japanese. His business was now prospering and since Mr. Chien was not beside him he nearly forgot the Japanese. The Japanese army, in the country around Peiping, was killing people; many came to Peiping to escape their misery. Wang the Third was busy. Other businesses in Peiping were poor, and only those who plied the same trade as Wang the Third, and those who beat the little drum, selling old clothes, had any. \Vang the Third was a man whose mind walked one road only. When he saw a deal he forgot everything else. He said to himself, "The Japanese are not so bad after all. They have brought me no little business. Well, you occupy Peiping and I still have business, so we don't interfere with each other. That's not bad." He thought of the future and said to himself, "If things continue this way I can buy houses for myself. I am almost sixty. I should buy two or three small houses and live on the rent. Ren ts will go up, and I will have white flour to eat. Why should I continue in business? I could take my grandson and go sit in the tea shops or wander the streets." The child grew well, not fat, but strong in every way. Wang the Third said that the child's nose and eyes were like his mother's, but the mother was certain that not only the eyes and nose but also the hair and ears were like her husband's . This question was one that could not be settled. There was another question that could not be solved, that of a name for the baby. Young Mrs. Chien insisted that they wait until Grandfather Chien should come and name the child. Wang the Third felt that the baby should have a milk name at once, and wait for Mr. Chien to give him his formal name-his school name. What should the baby's milk name be? The father and daughter again did not agree. Wang the Third sometimes called the baby "Little Dog," and sometimes "Little Bull," but young Mrs. Chien did not like those animals. When she played with the baby she would call him, "Little Fatty," or sometimes, "Little Stinky," but this drew on her censure from Wang the Third who said, "He is neither fat nor stinking." After a while Wang the Third took the simplest way, and called the baby "Grandson." Young Mrs. Chien called him "Son." So when the child heard either "Grandson," or "Son," he would open his little mouth and laugh. This made it difficult for others since they could not call this little person either "Grandson" or "Son." Because of this not great but difficult problem the father and 241

daughter both wished that Mr. Chien would come quickly and name the baby. But Mr. Chien did not come. Scholar Yeh was extremely fond of this nameless child because he was Mr. Chien' s grandson, and also because he had been the middleman between him and Wang the Third in bringing about the friendship. He was certain to come to see the baby whenever he had time. He knew that the baby could not eat anything yet, nor play with toys, but he was unwilling to come with empty hands; so every time he came he was certain to bring some fruit, or a little bright red-and-green cart, or a cluster of tiny drums on a stick. Wang the Third was not able to let such expenditure pass. "The child cannot eat and cannot play. Why do you throw away money? Next time don't bring anything." "A small thing, a small thing," Scholar Yeh said apologetically. "The Chien family has only this one root." In his heart he was thinking, "I have lost his grandfather, my very best friend, I cannot afford to lose this little friend. When the little friend grows older, I hope that he will affectionately call me 'Great Uncle,' and that he will not call me other and unpleasant names." On this day a long time after dark Scholar Yeh, carrying a large parcel of cakes, went to see the baby. While still at a distance he stretched his long thin neck to look at the Wang house and see if there was any light, for he knew that Wang the Third and young Mrs . Chien both went to bed early. He hoped that they had not gone to sleep yet, so he could give them the parcel of cakes . When he had walked a few more steps his heart chilled-there was no light at the Wang home. He stood still and said to himself, "Too late. Those who smoke opium have no idea of time. I should die." He walked a few steps more, unwilling to turn round and give up. When he was only five or six steps from the gate he saw some­ one standing there, someone who suddenly began to walk away in the opposite direction, someone who walked very slowly. Scholar Yeh could not see clearly who it was, but felt intuitively that it was Mr. Chien . He hastened forward. The dark shadow in front of him also walked more quickly, and limped as it walked . Scholar Yeh began to run, and overtook the one in front. His tears and his voice burst forth simultaneously, "Brother-in-law." Mr. Chien bent his head and pressed forward. Scholar Yeh dropped the parcel of cakes on the ground and seized his brother­ in-law's arm. "Brother-in-law, Brother-in-law, I have looked for you everywhere, and now I see you again ." Mr. Chien walked slowly but he kept his head bent, and made not a sound.

Scholar Yeh held his brother-in-law's arm with both hands. "Brother-in-law, how can you be so cruel? I know, I admit that I am weak and vain, and that I am a rotten egg, but I beg you to speak one word to me, just one word. Yes, Brother-in-law, speak just one word to me." At this moment they walked under a street lamp. Scholar Yeh bent over, hoping to see his brother-in-law's face. It was dark and thin, the unkempt beard covered his mouth, and down either side of his nose, the tears streamed. "Brother-in-law, if you still do not speak, I will kneel here before you." Mr. Chien sighed. "Brother-in-law, didn't you come also to see the child?" Mr. Chien walked more slowly and wiped the tears from his face with the back of his hand . "Ummm !" When Scholar Yeh heard this sound from his brother-in-law, he laughed like a child laughing through his tears. "Brother-in-law," he said, "that is a fine boy. He is handsome and strong." "I have never seen him," Mr. Chien said in a low voice. "I have only heard him cry. Everyday, when I think that Wang the Third is in bed, I stand awhile outside the gate, and when I •have heard the baby cry, I am satisfied. I wait until he has finished crying and gone to sleep. Then I lift my head and look at the stars above the house. I pray to the stars to protect my grandson. When a man is in danger, it is easy to be superstitious ." They walked silently to the main street, Scholar Yeh still holding his brother-in-law's arm tightly. Suddenly Mr. Chien stood still and freed his arm, and the two stood face to face. Scholar Yeh saw Mr. Chien's eyes and shuddered. In his memory his brother-in­ law's eyes had always been living springs of kindness and warmth; but now they were bright with a steely light, cold and fearful. Mr. Chien looked at Scholar Yeh only once, then turned his head. "You should go east, I think." "I-" Scholar Yeh moistened his lips. "Where do you live?" "I can sleep in any quiet place." "Are we to part in this way?" "Ummm-we can be together again when the nation is restored." "Brother-in-law, have you forgiven me?" Mr. Chien shopk his head very slightly. "I cannot. Neither you nor the Japanese will ever have my forgiveness ." Scholar Yeh' s thin face suddenly became hot. "Curse me! If you would but curse me, it would be a blessing." Mr. Chien did not say anything but walked slowly away. 2 43

Scholar Yeh again grasped his arm. "Brother-in-law, I still have many things to talk about with you." "I do not feel like idle talk." Scholar Yeh' s heart surged like water boiling. He picked a theme at random and said, "Why should we not go to see the child? It would also make Wang the Third happy." "Wang the Third? He has disappointed me just as you have. I do not want to see him. Just let him look after the child for me. If I could manage in any way I would not even give him the re­ sponsibility of looking after the child. I am most anxious to see my grandson, but I must first sweep clean a piece of the earth for my grandson that he may live a free man. If the grandfather dies, perhaps the grandson may live. If, on the contrary, the grandfather and grandson are both slaves in a conquered country-well, well-" Mr. Chien smiled and his smile was beautiful. "Go home. I'll see you when fate brings us together." Without moving his eyes, Scholar Yeh watched his brother-in­ law move away. That black shadow limping away was really his brother-in-law but yet not very much like his brother-in-law. The shadow left the street and Scholar Yeh sighed deeply. Scholar \'eh returned again to the Wang gate and heard the baby cry. He imagined that his brother-in-law had stood in just this way outside the gate and listened to the baby cry. He went quickly away and his eyes were moist. He decided to go i m mediately to see Rey Shuan and tell him the story of his meeting with his brothe·r-in-law. Rey Shuan was already in bed and was startled by the knocking at the gate. During the last few days because of the fall of Hankow the Japanese had been arresting people on all sides. The victory at the front had made the enemy in the north want to grasp North China tightly and never let it go. They had to arrest those who refused to bend their knees to them. The Japanese called this "Enforcing the Social Order." If they could not arrest the real "criminals," they would arrest innocent people for torture and death . Like owls catching little birds, they changed the time for making arrests to the night. Rey Shuan was startled for he knew he was a suspect since he worked for the English. He dressed quickly and went out. The courtyard was dark. When he got to the spirit screen he asked, "Who is there?" "I-Scholar Yeh ." Rey Shuan opened the gate. The street light outside Number Three shone into the passage. There was a sound of laughter from 244

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the Kuan compound, and he realized that the shamelessness of these people was the best passport for the present times. "Yo, you had already slept. Those who take opium have no idea of time. I'm sorry to disturb you." Scholar Yeh wiped the sweat from his face. "That doesn't matter. Come in." Scholar Yeh hesitated. "It's really too late, I'm afraid." But as he spoke he started into the courtyard. Rey Shuan unlocked the guest room. Scholar Yeh went straight to his subject. " I have seen my brother­ in-law." Rey Shuan's heart leaped. "You saw him?" Scholar Yeh told the story of his meeting with his brother-in­ law. He told the story very simply. , Rey Shuan showed no emotion. He was not thinking about Scholar' Yeh, but about how much he would like to see Mr. Chien . He made a plan . "Tomorrow night at eight thirty I will meet you outside the Wang house." "Tomorrow?" Scholar Yeh rolled his eyes . 'Tm afraid he won't-" Rey Shuan knew, of course, that since Mr. Chien did not respect Wang the Third and Scholar Yeh, he might never go there again, either tomorrow or at any other time, but he wanted so much to see Mr. Chien that he said only, "Never mind, never mind. I'll be there anyway." The next day he and Scholar Yeh waited the whole evening outside the Wang house. Mr. Chien did not come.

Chapter Nine 11 EY SHUAN was mistaken . When the Japanese made arrests they � did not knock at the gate but climbed over the wall when . day was about to break. To catch a mouse the Japanese use the power and planning that would be needed to catch an elephant. Rey Shuan had committed no crime and the Japanese who were about to arrest him could have done it with great ease by sending a gendarme or one policeman. But they had to make a small thing into a large one in order to show their great ability in handling detail. At about four o'clock in the morning a big truck stopped outside the entrance of the Little Sheep Fold. There were ten men in the truck-some wearing uniforms and some in plain clothes-and in a 24 5

small motorcar behind the truck were two officials : to arrest a scholar who had little physical strength they were using twelve men and a lot of gasoline. The truck and the car stopped . The two officials .got out first to look over the terrain and placed a guard at the entrance to the Little Sheep Fold. They took out a map and studied it carefully. They whispered to each other and then whispered to the men who had come off the truck. It seemed as though they were about to attack a fort or an arsenal . When they had consulted and whispered for quite a while one of the officers returned to the car and sat with his hands one on top the other. The other officer led six men into the Little Sheep Fold. They walked lightly like cats and made no noise for they wore rubber-soled shoes . When they saw the two big locust trees the officer raised his arm and two of the men climbed the trees and settled themselves in the forks of the branches and aimed their guns at Number Five. The officer again raised his arm and the others-mostly Chinese-dispersed them­ selves, some to climb the wall and some to get on the roof. The officer hid himself between the tree and the spirit screen in front of Number Three. The day was beginning to become light but there were a few stars left. In all the Little Sheep Fold there was not a sound. The light morning breeze blew through the leaves of the old trees. A cat ran around under the walls, and the guns in the trees and beneath the tree at once changed their aim . When the soldiers saw that it was only a cat they again earnestly watched the gate of Number Five with expressions even more serious. Rey Shuan heard a sound on the roof and guessed intuitively what it meant. He did not think it was thieves because the Chi family had lived there for decades and never had a thief. In this small residential district friendliness to all was insurance against thieves . Without making a sound he quickly put on his clothes and then quickly shook his wife awake. "There is someone on the roof. Don't be frightened. If they have come to arrest me, don't worry but go to see Mr. Goodrich." Yun Mei, as though understanding and yet not understanding, was already shaking. "Arrest you-what can I do alone?" Her hands held his trousers tightly. "Let go! " Rey Shuan said in an insistent voice. "You are brave, I know you will not be afraid. Ten thousand, you must not let the grandfather know about this . Just say that I have gone to the country with Mr. Goodrich for a few days." He stepped quickly off the bed.

"If you don't come back?" "Who knows?" There was a light tapping on the door of his room which Rey Shuan pretended not to hear. Yun Mei was shaking so that her teeth chattered. There was another tapping on the door. Rey Shuan asked, ''Who?'' "Are you Chi Rey Shuan?" From outside the door came the low-voiced question. Rey Shuan put on his shoes with trembling hands and pulled back the bolt to the room door. Several shadows surrounded him. Several guns pressed against his body. A flashlight was shone suddenly in his face and made him close his eyes. The guns were pressed in his ribs and someone said, "Don't make any noise-walk." Rey Shuan braced himself, and walked out slowly. Old Man Chi had never been able to sleep after the dawn and so he heard some noise. Just as Rey Shuan was passing his grand­ father's door, the old man first coughed and then in a comfortable sleepy voice asked, "Who is there? Has someone diarrhea?" Rey Shuan's feet hesitated a moment and then went on . The sky became lighter. As soon as he came out of the gate Rey Shuan saw a man jump down from each of the locust trees . There was no color in his face but he smiled. He would have liked to say to them, "Do you need all these to arrest me?" But he said nothing. Looking left and right he felt that the Little Sheep Fold was more spacious than it used to be and he was more at peace. There was a slight sound at the gate of Number Four. Several guns as though automatically controlled from a central station immediately faced north in unison . There was nothing at the gate so all walked for­ ward. When they reached the gate of Number Three the officer popped out from behind the screen. Two men went back to Num­ ber Five, went in the gate and closed it. When Rey Shuan heard the slight sound made by the gate closing he felt more at peace. The family was shut away behind him; he could with courage go forward to face his own destiny. With her heart in great confusion Yun Mei dressed and without waiting to wash her face or comb her hair ran into the courtyard to start out to find Mr. Goodrich. She did not often go out of the compound and she did not know how she should go about looking for Mr. Goodrich, but she did not hesitate on that account. She closed her room door very lightly and started quickly across the court. When she rounded the spirit screen and could see the 2 47

gate, she saw also the two men standing there, a tall one and a short one. They were both Chinese but they had guns ill their hands given them by the Japanese. The two guns stopped her. "What do you want? You are not allowed to go out." Yun Mei's legs gave way but she steadied herself with her hand on the screen. Her big eyes flashed. "Stand aside. I wish to go out." "No one is allowed to go out," the tall man said . "I tell you, go and boil some water, make us tea, bring us something to eat. Go back quickly." Yun Mei shook all over. She wanted to defy them and fight them to the death but she knew that alone she could not fight two men with guns; and, moreover, she had never thought, in all these years she had lived, to fight with anyone and she did not know how; but yet she was unwilling to retreat without an effort. She knew it was useless but she asked them, "Why have you arrested my husband? He is a most harmless man." Now it was the turn of the short man . "Don't waste words.· The Japanese wanted to arrest him. We don't know why. Get us some boiling water quickly." "Aren't you Chinese?" Yun Mei asked, her eyes fixed on them. The short one became angry. "I tell you, we have been very courteous to you. You don't know when you are well off. Go back." His gun came closer to Yun Mei. Yun Mei stepped back. Her tongue was no match for their guns. She backed a couple of steps and then suddenly turned and ran to the southern house. She had no other way open to her; since she could not go out of the gate she must consult with her mother­ in-law. Daylight had arrived but the southern house was still very dark. Mrs. Tien Yiu could not see Yun Mei's face clearly although she knew intuitively that something was wrong. "What's the matter, Mother of Little Precious?" Yun Mei's tears which had been controlled for so long began to flow. She still held onto herself and did not cry aloud. "What has happened, what has happened?" Mrs . Tien Yiu repeated. "Rey Shuan was taken away by them." It was as though ice water had been poured down Mrs. Tien Yiu's back. She shivered but controlled herself. She was the mother­ in-law and must n.ot set a bad example for her daughter-in-law. She held tightly to the table and asked, "How did they take him away?" Yun Mei told her quickly what had happened. Mrs. Tien Yiu could see the end of life. Without Rey Shuan the 24 8

whole family would die, but she hid this thought in her mind and would not speak of it. A few less hopeless words would give her daughter-in-law some comfort. "Mother of Little Precious, think of some way to push out a piece of the wall, and tell the people in Number Six to go to the British Embassy." This way of establishing communications was not an invention of the old lady's; she had learned it from Old Man Chi. In the past when there was a mutiny among the soldiers or a war the old man would knock a hole in the wall so that the people in the two courtyards could communi­ cate. This did not necessarily help them avoid danger but it had great psychological effect : the people of both courts felt that there were then more of them together, and this lessened their fear. Yun Mei ran to the kitchen to find a tool for breaching the wall . She felt that it was something to do. To save her husband she believed that she could have moved a mountain. Just then Old Man Chi got up and taking a broom started to go out to sweep the ground outside the gate. This was his daily exer­ cise. He believed that if old people took exercise they would not have so much illness; and also when he swept the court and the broom was in his hand, he would look at his son and his grandsons as if to say, "This is the way a family is established, by industry and work." As soon as the old man rounded the spirit screen and saw the two men he spoke. This was his own courtyard. He had a right to question the intruders. "What are you doing here, you two?" His words were said strongly to show his authority, and at the same time they were gentle to avoid offending. Even if the two men were robbers he did not want to offend them. The sight of their guns did not frighten him nor cause him to shout. He had lived for over seventy-five years in a troubled world and it had made him steady like rubber, both yielding and hard. "What, are you short of money? We are a poor family." "Go back!" the tall one said. "Tell all inside that no one may come out." "Why?" The old man was still unwilling to become angry but his eyes narrowed slightly. "This is my home." "So you are going to be troublesome. If you were not an old man I would slap you," the short one said. He obviously had a worse temper than the tall one. Without waiting for the old man to answer the tall one said, "Go back, don't make trouble. The one called Rey Shuan-is he your son or your grandson?" "My eldest grandson," the old man said with pride. 2 49

"He has been arrested by the Japanese, and we have been ordered to stay here to guard the gate, to keep you all from going out. Now do you understand?" The broom dropped from the old man's hands and his face turned grey. "Why was he arrested? He had committed no cnrne. " "Don't waste words . Go back!" The short one pushed his gun toward the old man. The old man was not thinking of taking the gun from the short one but he took a step forward. He had been born a poor man and now, although he was old, he was still strong. "This is my house. If I want to go out, I go out. What can you do to me? Fire. I will not step aside. You arrest my grandson-why?" The old man wished to plead with them but his anger had kept his tongue from obeying his mind, and his words had come as they would, and without order. Since he had already spoken, he thought no more of his old life and shouted, "Arrest my grandson ! That won't do! The Japanese arrested him? What are you doing here? Step aside. I will go to see the Japanese." As he said this he drew aside his coat and bared his thin hard chest. "Corne, shoot me." His anger made his hands tremble but he beat his breast until it sounded. "If you shout I will really fire," the short one said through his clenched teeth. "Fire, fire, fire here!" With his trembling hand the old man pointed at his chest. His little eyes had narrowed to slits. He straightened his back and his beard shook. Mrs. Tien Yiu arrived first, and Yun Mei who had not yet removed a single brick came also. The two women, one on each side, took hold of the old man's arms and pulled him toward the courtyard . The old man jumped up and down cursing loudly. He forgot courtesy, he forgot peacefulness; because courtesy and peace­ fulness had not given him peace and good fortune. The two women drew the old man back to his room. He stopped shouting and only the trembling was left. "Grandfather," Mrs . Tien Yiu said in a low voice, "don't be angry. We must think of some way to save Rey Shuan." The old man swallowed several times and looked at his daughter­ in-law and his granddaughter-in-law with eyes that were dry and bright. From being ashen, his face began to have some color. He closed his eyes. He had already showed his courage, he must now think of a plan. He knew that they would not have any good plan, for he had always considered women to be people who could not think. An idea came very quickly, "Send for Tien Yiu ." .

2 50

Yun Mei smiled from habit. "But we can't go out the gate, Grandfather." The old man's heart pained him sharply and he hung his head. He did not even dare to touch his beard. The beard was no longer the symbol of experience and wisdom but had become a sign of age and decay. He lay down on the bed. "Leave me now, I have no plan." Mrs. Tien Yiu and Yun Mei stood a moment in silence and then quietly walked out. "I will go and work some more on the wall," said Yun Mei. "Wait a bit, I will go and plead with those two men to let me go out." "No use, they will listen to no pleading." "But aren't they Chinese? Wouldn't they help us a little?" Yun Mei shook her head . The sun came out and the few thin clouds in the sky could not keep away any of the sunshine. The two women looked at the sky and felt as if they were in a dream. Yun Mei again went to the north wall and took up the poker. She dared not use too much force for fear of making a noise that could be heard by the two men, but without force she could not loosen a brick. She began to perspire. As she dug at the wall she called softly, "Mr. Wen, Mr. Wen," for this part of the wall was very near to the rooms where the Little Wens lived. She hoped that Little Wen would hear her calling, but it was no use, her voice was too low. She stopped calling and put more strength into her blows. After a long time she had removed one brick. Little Niu Niu called her and she ran quickly back to her room. She must tell Little Niu Niu not to go to the gate. Little Niu Niu did not understand but she knew from her mother's face that something was wrong. Her little eyes followed her mother. After her mother had dressed her she stayed close by her mother. She was a child of the Chi family and she knew fear. The mother went to the kitchen to make a fire. Niu Niu helped to get the matches and kindling. She wanted to show how good she was and not make her mother angry. Mrs. Tien Yiu stood in the courtyard with her eyes on the pome­ granate trees that had already lost their leaves but she saw nothing. Her heart was beating fast. She must in some way think of some­ thing to save her son . Suddenly her eyes brightened and she squatted a moment because she had become dizzy. It was tiring to think of plans . She stood up again very carefully, and then walked quickly to the south house.

In her trousseau chest she had fifty or sixty silver dollars . Very quietly she opened the chest and on the bottom she found an old white cloth stocking. She lifted the sock with both hands so there would be no sound. She put her hand into the sock and felt the cold, bright pieces of silver. This was her own money. Whenever she was very ill she always thought of these few tens of dollars . This little hoard of money could give her comfort when she was about to die because they could be changed into a coffin for her, and so give her sons less trouble. Today she decided to alter her plans for their use, even though when she should die there might not be enough money to buy her a coffin. She must first save her eldest son. Gently she took the coins out one by one. Each piece was bright and on one side was the fat face of Yuan Shih Kai. She took out twenty dollars. She hated those two who worked for the Japanese and felt that ten dollars each was enough to buy them off. She put back the remaining money. Then wrapping the twenty dollars in a handkerchief she put them into her pocket and walked quietly out. She stopped when she reached the date tree. She stood there a long time unable to make up her mind. Just at this moment of indecision she heard the sharp ringing of a rickshaw bell. Rey Feng had come. Ever since Rey Feng had hired Little Tsui's rickshaw on contract he had to ring the bell several times whenever he came, even if the gate were wide open. The sound of the bell broadcast for him his new dignity and spirited style. Mrs. Tien Yiu ran forward two steps quickly, only two steps, and then stopped . She must let her second son do his duty. She was a woman of the Chi family and knew that the affairs that a man should handle should be left to a man, and women should not interfere. Yun Mei had also heard the bell and came quickly over. She whispered to her mother-in-law, "The Second." The old lady nodded and a slight smile appeared at the corners of her mouth . The two women were silent and there was some comfort in their hearts . They thought that Old Second would be able to help be­ cause Rey Shuan was his own brother. Yun Mei started forward but her mother-in-law pulled her back. Yun Mei whispered, "I will peep around the edge of the spirit screen. I won't go around it." She stood behind the spirit screen and looked out beyond it with one eye . The two men were facing outward and the short one opened the gate. The sun shone on Rey Feng's dry little face, and his forehead and 252

nose were bright. His hat was in his right hand, and he was wear­ ing a suit of Chung-Shan clothes, of dark blue serge, which had just been made for him. On his breast he wore the badge of the Commission of Education . He was especially pleased with himself today because he would in his position of Section Head in the Commission of Education have an opportunity to see the two spe­ cial envoys sent over by the Emperor of Japan. North China had become more important after the fall of Hankow. The Japanese might have been willing to give up Hankow, even to give up Nanking, but they would never loosen their grasp of North China. Because of this the Japanese Emperor had sent over two special envoys to stiffen the determination of the traitors of Peiping. These two special envoys were today to receive all of­ ficials of the rank of section head or higher in the Hall of Cherished Benevolence in the Southern Sea Park to proclaim to them the graciousness of the Heavenly Emperor. The reception was to be at nine o'clock in the morning. Rey Feng had not been able to sleep the latter half of the night and by five o'clock he was already up. He combed his hair with great care and washed his face, and then put on the new Chung-Shan suit which had been fitted five times and was without a single fault. He had wakened Fat Chrysanthemum when he was about to leave. "Look me over. Is it really all right everywhere? It seems to me that the sleeves are still a little too long, a tenth of an inch too long." Chrysanthemum paid no attention to him. He smiled to himself. . Since it was still too early he decided to go home and show off his new Chung-Shan suit and at the same time let all his family, the old and the young, know that he was going to see the special envoys . He made Little Tsui polish the rickshaw again before he got in; once in it he leaned back against the frame of the seat and held his head high. The imitation ivory cigarette holder was in his mouth, the morning breeze caressed his face, the newly risen sun shone on his new clothes and on his badge. If he saw an ac­ quaintance he stretched his neck far out to attract his attention, and then would smile. The smile covered his face with creases like a walnut just broken open, and as he smiled he held his hands between the left side of his face and his left shoulder clasped to­ gether in the ceremonious greeting. Even after the rickshaw had gone a long way his clasped hands were still there to show that in spite of being in so high a position he had not forgotten his man­ ners . As soon as his hands were lowered his foot would quickly 253

press the bell, whether it was necessary or not. He was as proud of himself as if the whole of Peiping belonged to him. The gate of his home opened and he saw the short one. He stood still, for he smelled danger and he had very little courage. "Come in," the short one ordered him. Rey Feng did not move. The tall one came over. Rey Feng knew the tall one because he had made friends among the secret police. Like a child seeing a familiar face, he forgot his fear. Rey Feng smiled, "Heh, Old Meng!" Old Meng nodded only in reply. The short one seized Rey Feng and pulled him in. Rey Feng's eyes were still on Old Meng. "What is it all about, Old Meng?" "Making an arrest," Old 1-1eng said with his face wooden. "Who are you arresting?" Rey Feng's face paled. "It must have been your brother." Rey Feng was touched; after all a brother was a brother. But on second thought-a brother was after all not oneself. He backed away a couple of steps, moistened his lips, and forcing himself to smile, he said, "Oh, we live separately, we brothers. Neither of us has anything to do with the affairs of the other. I came to see my old grandfather." "Go in." The short one pointed into the courtyard. Rey Feng rolled his eyes. "I think I will not go in ." The short one seized Rey Feng's wrist and said, "Having come, you are not allowed to leave again . Those are our orders.'� "Don't say that, don't say that, Old Meng." Rey Feng purposely avoided the short one. "I am Section Head in the Commission of Education." He pointed with his chin to the badge on his chest. He had his hat in one hand and the other was held by the short one. "No matter who you are we have our orders." The hands of the short one tightened until Rey Feng's wrist hurt. "I am an exception." Reg Feng was becoming tough. "I am on my way to the meeting where we see the special envoys of the Heavenly Emperor. If you don't let me go, you must get me a leave of absence." He immediately became mild again. "Why be bitter? We are all friends." Old Meng coughed twice. "Section Head Chi, this is really very difficult for us. You have your duty, but this is our duty. If we let you go we will have broken our rice bowls." Rey Feng put his hat on his head and · his hand in his pocket 2 54

but he found only two dollars. He had to hand over all his money to Fat Chrysanthemum, and then daily ask her for his daily needs . Feeling the two bills only he dared not bring them out. He coun­ terfeited a smile and said, "Old Meng, I must go to the Hall of Cherished Benevolence. Let's settle it this way-some day soon I'll invite you to a drinking party; we're all one family." He turned to the short one and asked, "What is the honorable surname of this elder brother?" "Kuo, but it doesn't matter." Yun Mei did not stop trembling. Mrs. Tien Yiu had come over and held her daughter-in-law's hand so she also had heard the con­ versation which made her daughter-in-law tremble with anger. Sud­ denly she let go Yun Mei's hand and went around the spirit screen . "Mother !" Rey Feng had only half got the word out. He was afraid that if he proved that he was Rey Shuan's brother he would not be able to escape. The old lady looked at her son, and then she looked at the two men . Slowly she took out the handkerchief with the twenty dollars wrapped in it, and gently opening it showed the bright shining white coins. Six eyes, as though looking at a magic show, stared at those snow-white and shiny silver pieces, such as none had seen for a long time. The jaw of the short one dropped. "Take these, and let him go." The old lady had ten dollars in each hand and set them in little piles by their feet. She disdained to put the money into their hands . The short one let go of Rey Feng's hand and quickly picked up the money. Old Meng drew a deep breath, smiled at the old lady, and then also picked up the money. The short one took one of the dollars, blew on the edge of it and then put it to his ear to hear the ringing. He then also smiled and said, "I haven't seen any of . this good stuff for years ." Rey Feng's mouth dropped open and he ran quickly out. The old lady went back into the courtyard taking her empty handkerchief. As she rounded the screen she came face to face with her daughter-in-law. There were tears in Yun Mei's eyes, but the tears did not cover the fire of anger. She had never, in all the years she had been in the Chi family, quarreled with her mother­ in-law. Today she could not control herself, and although she was unable to speak, she could stare in anger at the old lady. The old lady held onto the wall and said in a low voice, "The Second is not a Thing, but still he is my son." Yun Mei sat on the ground, and with both hands in front of her face began to cry softly. 2 55

As soon as Rey Feng got out of the gate he wanted to get in his rickshaw and quickly go away. The more he thought about it, the more frightened he was, and he began to tremble. Little Tsui's rickshaw was as usual under the western locust tree. Rey Feng stopped when he reached the gate of Number Three. He wanted to see a friend to tell him about his adventure and his fright. He had entirely forgotten his brother, Rey Shuan, and felt only that if he could enter the Kuan house, and talk gaily, he would get comfort and satisfaction. On ordinary days the Kuan family did not get up so early. Today, however, Big Red Pepper was also going to the Hall of Cherished Benevolence, so all had to get up early. Big Red Pepper had already spent an hour plucking her eyebrows, powdering her face, applying her lipstick, but she still was not satisfied, and com­ plained that the powder was poor, the lipstick no good. When the make-up was finished, the selection of the dress was another knotty problem. She was going to see the special envoys today; she must be dressed to the utmost, and not even a button could be over­ looked. All her boxes were opened, and the clothes piled on her bed and the sofa. She could not be satisfied. "If the special envoy would only give me an order, and tell me what to wear, it would save a lot of trouble." "Stand still, let me see you from a distance." Morning Lotus went to the end of the room, leaned his head to the left and looked searchingly to the right. "I think it is all right. Walk a few steps and let me see." "Walk-your mother's dung! " Big Red Pepper said half-smiling and half-angry. "Ai, ai, to open your mouth and hurt people-it is not right," said Morning Lotus with a smile. "I dare not annoy you today. How wonderful, even the special envoys will see you, very good, very good. I tell you the truth, if I had been going to see them, I would have been trembling all over by this time. Director, you are really a person with a strong mind, you can compose' yourself. Don't change again, my eyes have become blurred." Rey Feng came in at this moment. His face was still pale, but the sound of the Kuans' voices had already calmed him. "Look at the new Chung-Shan suit," Morning Lotus began to shout as soon as he saw Rey Feng. "After all, it is easier for us men to dress up. This suit of Chung-Shan clothes has made Rey Feng look ten years younger." "It's terrible." Rey Feng sat down on the sofa. "What's the matter?" Big Red Pepper asked. 2 56

"It's awful. I have known for a long time that sooner or later this was bound to happen. Rey Shuan, Rey Shuan." He purposely kept up the suspense. "What's happened to Rey Shuan?" "Fallen in." "What?" "Arrested." ''Really?" Morning Lotus drew in his breath. �'How did they arrest him?" Big Red Pepper wanted to know. "It was terrible. Even I was almost caught by them. Life and death ! If it had not been for this suit of Chung-Shan clothes and this badge, I am sure that I also would have fallen in. I have told my eldest brother many times, many times, not to be difficult with the Japanese, but he would never listen to me. And now see-has he got it or not?" Rey Feng felt much better when he had finished saying all this, and the color gradually returned to his face. "You are right, right," Morning Lotus said, nodding. "Rey Shuan obviously thought he had the English behind him and so he could not get into trouble. He doesn't seem to know that Peiping now belongs to the Japanese, and that the English and Americans are now only second-rate." Big Red Pepper had no sympathy with Rey Shuan, but she was scornful of Rey Feng; he was not much of a man to be fussing about such a small matter. She pushed the subject aside and asked Rey Feng about other matters. "If you are going in your rickshaw, you'd better be moving." Rey Feng stood up . "That's right, I'll go ahead. Director, you are taking a motorcar?" Big Red Pepper nodded. Rey Feng went out and seated himself in the rickshaw. He began to feel uncomfortable. Big Red Pepper had been cool to him. Hum! It must be that Big Red Pepper was afraid of being involved, and that was the reason she was cool. Little Tsui suddenly spoke. "Mr. Chi, why did you not go in just now when you were at home?'' Rey Feng did not want to tell Little Tsui about it all . He knew that the two secret policemen would not like him to tell; but he could not hold back his words . He first warned Little Tsui, "You must not tell anyone else, do you hear? Rey Shuan has fallen in." "What?" Little Tsui drew back his feet, and his running became a walk. "Ten thousand, you must not tell anyone." 257

"Well, are we still going to the park? S�10uldn't we be making a plan for saving him?" "Save him? Even I almost fell in." Little Tsui's red face now became purple. He walked a few steps and then set down the shafts, and in a very unceremonious voice said, "Get out!" Rey Feng, of course, was not willing to get out of the rickshaw. "What's the matter?" he said. "Get out!" Little Tsui was very determined. " I will not serve a man like you. He is your own brother. Huh, you don't take any responsibility. Are you a man or not?" Rey Feng also became heated. No matter how weak and vain he was, he could not take a lecture from his own rickshaw boy, but he swallowed his anger, for today he must get to the Park of the Southern Sea in a contract rickshaw. How many, many people would be in motorcars, and if he went in a hired rickshaw, he would lose too much face. He would rather eat a few words from Little Tsui than lose face outside the Park of the Southern Sea. A con� tract rickshaw was also a badge. He pretended to laugh. "All right, Little Tsui, wait until I have seen the envoys, and I will think of a way to save my brother-sure." Little Tsui hesitated. He wanted very much to go right back and help the Chi family, but he knew that his power to help them was very small and that it would be more to the point to urge Rey Feng to some effort. Moreover, if Rey Feng should really refuse to help, he could pull him to some quiet place and give him a good beating. When he had thought this out clearly he picked up the shafts of the rickshaw. As they neared the Park of the Southern Sea, they saw soldiers and policemen lining the streets on either side. There were three rows of soldiers on each side of the main street : two rows with fixed bayonets faced the street, and another row with guns held horizontally faced the shops. Over the shops hung the five-colored flag and the Japanese flag, but all the shops were boarded up. Except for those going to the meeting there were no cars or pedestrians on the street. Even the tram cars had stopped running. Rey Feng looked at the road, and then looked at the six rows of soldiers and policemen, and was frightened, but at the same time he felt proud of himself. Communications had all stopped, yet he could travel on the main road. That was real dignity. He started to sound the bell and stretched his foot to press on it, but quickly pulled his foot back. The main street was so broad, and so still, if a rickshaw bell should sound suddenly, it might bring a bullet. 2 58

Even Little Tsui felt uncomfortable, and ran very fast. From time to time he turned his head to look at Rey Feng. Rey Feng said to himself, "Death seeker, don't look at me, don't look at me. You draw suspicion on us. They will fire on us ." At the gate of the park, a very tall policeman stretched out his hand, and Little Tsui turned where he was sent. The rickshaws were all to stop outside the western wall of the park where there were twenty or thirty soldiers and policemen with guns in their hands, keeping order. As Rey Feng was getting out of his rickshaw he saw two ac­ quaintances and immediately felt more comfortable. He nodded to them, and went over to walk with them. One of them said, "There will be an opera this afternoon, and all the stars of Peiping will perform." Rey Feng loved excitement, he loved to listen to opera. "Will there be opera? Can we also be there?" And he began to think about the opera, that he must see it whether his rank was high enough or not. At the gate of the Park of the Southern Sea they were sur­ rounded by soldiers and policemen. They registered. Their cre­ dentials were inspected and they were searched . Rey Feng did not feel it insulting, he felt only that a section head was privileged to have such treatment. He entered the main gate and turned to the right, and before his eyes stretched the lake, and the palaces with the roofs of five­ colored tiles; but he had no mind to their beauty; he wanted only to hasten to the Hall of Cherished Benevolence-for the good cakes and tea that would most certainly be there. He smiled. He saw Big Red Pepper ahead of him, distant about three arrow flights. He wanted to catch up with her but the soldiers were so thick on the sides of the road that he dared not walk quickly. At this moment the military band in the gate tower began to play. His heart beat fast, the special envoys were arriving. The sol­ diers and the policemen shouted "Stop!" Obediently everyone obeyed the order and drew to the side of the road, and stood still. After they had stood a long time the band stopped playing. There was no sound anywhere. Rey Feng was afraid of silence, and the palms of his hands began to sweat. Suddenly there was the sound of two shots, very near, as if just outside the gate. Several more shots followed immediately. Rey Feng was frightened, and without thinking, he began to run. Two bayonets stopped him. "Don't move." The shots continued, and Rey Feng's heart jumped to his throat. He did not see the Hall of Cherished Benevolence but was taken 2 59

by the soldiers and policemen, with many others, including Big Red Pepper, to a large south hall inside the main gate. These people, all dressed in their best clothes, with their badges on their breasts, had suddenly become prisoners in a damp cold room. There was no tea, and not enough chairs or tables for the number of people, only soldiers and policemen and their bayonets. Rey Feng and the others did not know what had happened outside the gate, and could only guess that perhaps someone had tried to assassinate the special envoys. Rey Feng was not concerned about the special envoys, but felt only disappointment; not only would he not see the opera, he would not even get the tea and cakes. It was fortunate that he was in the first lot to be brought in, and had a chair. Those who came in later had to stand. He sat without moving in his chair, afraid of losing it. Big Red Pepper was after all a person of command and with a presence. She pulled someone out of a chair and sat down, and as she sat she talked loudly. She even questioned the soldiers and policemen. "What is all this about? I have come to attend a re­ ception . I have not come to be pushed around." Finally Rey Feng's stomach told him the time. It was most cer­ tainly after noon . His stomach began to rumble from hunger. He began to be afraid . If the soldiers and the policemen surrounded them in this way forever, and did not allow him to go out and buy something to eat, it would be dreadful . When he was hungry all the unlucky words, such as sacrifice and death came swiftly to his mind. It was perhaps two o'clock in the afternoon when about ten Japanese gendarmes came in, each looking as troubled and unkempt as though he had just lost his father. They ordered the soldiers and the policemen to search very carefully each person in the room, whether man or woman. They all had to take off their clothes, even their underwear. Rey Feng felt that there was something unjust about this since what had happened had been outside the gate­ why should those inside be troubled? But when he saw that Big Red Pepper had bared her shoulders and exposed her two big, dark breasts, he began to feel more comfortable. The search lasted about an hour but nothing was discovered. One of the officers of the gendarmes raised his arm, and guarded by the soldiers they were taken to the Park of the Middle Sea. They left through the back gate of the Park of the Middle Sea and breathed again the air of freedom. Rey Feng talked to no one, but making two steps take the place of three he reached the Western 26o

Four Arches, ate a few baked breads, and drank a big bowl of soup. His stomach once filled, he completely forgot the ugly show that had happened such a short time before, and thought of it as he would a dream that had not been very pleasant. When he reached the Commission of Education he heard that the two special envoys had both died outside the Park of the Southern Sea. The city gates were closed again, and no one knew how many people had been arrested on the streets. Rey Feng nodded his head to the badge on his coat and said, "It's fortunate that I am a section head. · How awful it would have been if I had been arre�ted as a suspect." He thought he should drink a couple of cups of wine to celebrate his own good fortune. The section headship was his life insurance. He looked for Little Tsui outside the gate of the office at clos­ ing time, but could not find him. He became angry and began to curse. "His mother's ! He never was anything anyway, and when he decides to steal time, he steals time." Rey Feng walked home on his own feet, and asked as soon as he had en fered the gate, "Has Little Tsui returned?" No one had seen Little Tsui. Rey Feng wondered, "Is the fellow really going to quit? I'm not anxious about Rey Shuan, why should he be anxious? He is not his eldest brother." He became angry again and decided that when Little Tsui came in the morning, he would curse him a solid round. Little Tsui did not show up the next day. People were still being arrested everywhere inside the city. Rey Feng said to him­ self, "Do you suppose that fellow has been arrested? Who knows?" To avenge the death of the envoys more than two thousand people had been arrested, Little Tsui among them. People of all sorts had been arrested whether there was reason for suspicion or not, and no distinction had been made between men and women, old and young; all were given all the tortures. The assassin was not caught. The Japanese commandant of the gendarmes could wait no longer. In order to prove how capable he was, he had to execute somebody at once, so from among the two thousand W! th torn skins and open flesh he selected two. One was a chauffeur, aged about forty; and the other was Little Tsui. On the third day, at eight in the morning, the chauffeur and Little Tsui were bound and brought forth, and paraded through the streets for all to see. They were dressed only in their trousers . Bound to their bare backs and rising vertically above their heads were poles from which hung the long strips of white cloth with the wuntun

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26i

BE BEHEADED.

big black words-To After that had happened their heads were to be hung on the Five Arched Pailou outside the Great Front Gate of the city. The chauffeur had already collapsed and was supported by two policemen . Little Tsui held up his head and walked alone. His eyes were redder than his face, but he did not curse. He was not afraid of death, but regretted deeply that he had not listened to the advice of Rey Shuan. His age, his physical condition, and his good heart were all exactly what they should be for fighting the Japanese soldiers on the battle field; and yet, he was now being hauled out in this way-without name and serving no purpose-to be beheaded. He walked a few steps and lifting his head looked at the sky. Then he bent his head and looked at the ground. How beautiful the blue sky of Peiping, and the earth­ every inch familiar to his running feet. Yet this day was to see his death and this earth to be his grave. Two drums and four bugles led the way. In front and behind were many ranks of soldiers and policemen carrying their guns with bayonets fixed, on their shoulders. In the middle of the procession walked the chauffeur and Little Tsui, and behind were the Japanese officers, proudly supervising the butchering. Rey Feng, somewhere near the Western Single Arch, heard the drums and the bugles. He flew to catch up with the procession. He liked to see any excitement. An execution was also a show. He must go to see it. "Yo!" He could not help but exclaim. He had seen Little Tsui. Rey Feng's face became a sheet of white paper, and he drew back quickly. He did not think of Little Tsui but felt of his own neck. Little Tsui had been his rickshaw boy, did that not mean danger for him also? He thought quickly. He must find someone he could trust with whom he could consult. Suppose the Japanese came to investigate him, how should he reply? He ran quickly north toward his home; he wanted to consult Rey Shuan . He had gone about a hundred yards before he remembered that Rey Shuan also was arrested.

Chapter Ten

eHANG SHUN had had a stomach ache and had started out to re­ lieve himself. Just as he was opening the gate, first a tiny slit, he saw the black shadows outside Number Five. Quickly and lightly he shut the gate, steadying it so it would not make a sound. Then he watched with one eye, through a hole in the gate. He forgot 262

his stomach ache. Looking carefully he recognized Rey Shuan among the black shadows. He could not see his face but recognized his height and manner. He guessed what it meant. He waited until all the black shadows had gone away and he still stood there. His breath came quickly and his heart pounded. He had only one idea, to save Rey Shuan-but how? He could not think. He put his hand on his head and thought of all the people in the Little Sheep Fold. Suddenly his mind became light-he had remembered Fourth Master Li. He started to open the gate immediately but drew his hand back-he knew how cunning were the Japanese. He went back in to the courtyard and placed a bench against the western wall . He clambered onto the wall and dropped himself over on the other side. "Fourth Grandfather, Fourth Grandfather." He stood outside the window and called in a low voice. His hot breath blew on the paper of the window so that it rustled slightly. Fourth Master Li had been awake a long time but his eyes were closed to enjoy the warmth of the bed a little longer. The old man opened his eyes and asked, "Who is there?" "I, Chang Shun . Get up quickly. They have arrested Mr. Chi." "What?" Old Man Li quickly sat up and hunted for his clothes. Wrapping his clothes around him, he came out. "What has hap­ pened? What has happened?" The more excited he was, the more difficult it became for Chang Shun to find the words he needed. When the old man had heard the story his eyes became slits as he looked at the branches of the locust trees outside the courtyard. "Fourth Grandfather, what shall we do?" Chang Shun pulled Fourth Master Li's sleeve. "Oh, there is a way. I have an idea. Quickly take a message to the British Embassy." "I'll go." Chang Shun's eyes were bright. "Do you know anyone to look for?" the old man bent his head and asked affectionately. "I-" Chang Shun thought awhile. "I could look for John Ting." "That's right, good boy, you go. I can't go-I must be here to tell the neighbors not to visit the Chi family." "Why?" "Whenever they arrest anyone they always leave two at the gate to watch, and arrest anyone who comes. They think we do not know this. In fact, in fact-" The old man smiled in disdain. "When they have done it once, do we not know?" "Well, I will go now."

"Go back over the wall. It is still too early. If you go out now the two hidden guards will think you are up to something. Wait until the sun is risen before you open the gate. Do you know the way?" Chang Shun nodded and looked at the wall. "Come, I'll help you up." The old man was strong and lifted Chang Shun in his two hands so he could reach the top of the wall. "Don't hurry. Be careful not to sprain your ankle." Chang Shun did not answer but jumped down. Why did the sun come out so slowly? Chang Shun, dressed in his long coat, stood in the courtyard looking at the sky. His grand­ mother had not yet got up, and he was afraid that she would get up, and question him. If he told her the truth she would most certainly keep him at home. The sky reddened. Chang Shun ran to the gate and peeped out with one eye. There was no movement at all in the open space around the locust trees, but the tops of the trees were brightening. He was afraid to open the gate, for he was sure that the noise of the gate opening would bring the bullets. The sun rose. Very, very slowly he opened the gate. He opened it wide enough only for him to squeeze through . Like a fish swim­ ming in the water, he slid out. He was afraid that those ambushed in Number Five would see him so he clung to the wall as he walked toward the east. The sun had begun to shimmer on the broken glazed tiles of the Temple of National Protection by the time he reached the belly of the gourd that was the Little Sheep Fold. He began to run. When there was no phonograph on his back he could go very fast, even though his gait was awkward-his big head thrust for­ ward and his two hands flying in all directions. He did not know what to do with them, and the faster he walked the faster they flew around . Sometimes they swung high and sometimes they did not swing at all. They seemed to have a life of their own. As soon as he saw the Legation Quarter he walked more slowly. He was somewhat frightened . He had been reared by his grand­ mother who was very much afraid of foreigners and had told her grandson that he must on all occasions avoid them. He stamped his feet to rid his shoes of the dust, and with his hand wiped the sweat from his nose. Then very slowly he walked into the Legation Quarter, for his mind was firmly made that he must get into the British Embassy. But when he saw the guard, straight and still as a post by the entrance, involuntarily he stood still.

·

No, he could not stand there forever. Within his fear he had, after all, a young man's heart. Facing the guard he walked over and not waiting for the guard to speak, he said in a high voice to avoid the nasal tones, "I want to see John Ting." The guard said nothing but pointed inward with his hand . Chang Shun went into the gatehouse. The servant in the gatehouse was very polite and asked him to wait awhile. The blood in his face receded and he began to look at the flowers in the Embassy com­ pound . John Ting came. He was wearing a starched white gown, all the creases in place. With bent head and noiseless feet he walked quickly and smoothly, showing by his motions the dignity of the English Palace and his own pride in working there. When he saw Chang Shun he said, "Yo, you !" "It's I." Chang Shun smiled. "It's about Mr. Chi. He has been arrested by the Japanese." John Ting stood still. He had never imagined that the Japanese would dare to arrest anyone from the English Palace. He knitted his brow and his temper rose. He was not angry for the Chinese but for the injustice to the English Palace. "This won't do, I tell you, this won't do. Wait here. I'll go and tell Mr. Goodrich to tell them to let Mr. Chi go immediately." Then as though he were afraid that Chang Shun might run away, he added, "Wait here." John Ting came back after a while, walking even more quickly and still more noiselessly. His eyes shone. He beckoned with his finger. Chang Shun followed John Ting into a room where Mr. Good­ rich was walking up and down. He stood still when he saw" Chang Shun and held up his hands in the Chinese greeting. He did not . much like to shake hands and felt that to clasp his own hands in the traditional Chinese greeting was more respectful and more hygienic. In Chinese he asked Chang Shun, "You say that Mr. Chi has been arrested? How was he taken?" Chang Shun stuttered out the story. He had never before spoken to a foreigner and did not know how best to talk. Mr. Goodrich listened attentively to him, and as he heard the story he stretched his neck and red patches appeared on his face. "Um-um-um." He nodded several times . "You are a neighbor of his?" When he saw Chang Shun nod his head he again said, "Um, good, good, you are a good boy. I can manage it." He straightened his back. "Go home quickly and tell Old Mr. Chi not to worry and that I have a way to manage." He was silent for a while and then as if talking to himself, he said, "This is not only the arrest 265

of Rey Shuan but is a slap in the face of Old England . Hum! 'KiII the chicken to frighten the monkeys.' " Chang Shun felt very happy. He had today done an extraordinary deed. "John," Mr. Goodrich called, "take him out and give him rick­ shaw money." Then he said to Chang Shun, "Good boy, go back home and don't say anything about our business to anyone else." John Ting and Chang Shun walked out feeling very proud of themselves . John Ting put a dollar into Chang Shun's pocket. Rey Shuan had already passed several hours in the prison. It was the same place that Mr. Chien had once been in. The arrange­ ments were different, however, from those that Mr. Chien had known . It had been a temporary prison when Mr. Chien was there, but now it was a "model" prison . The Japanese had altered and altered, made improvement after improvement. Anyone who saw it was forced to know that it was the epitome of ruthlessness and cruelty. Here the Japanese showed to the full their achiev.ements in the art of kiIIing. Rey Shuan was very calm. In ordinary days when thinking even about a small matter he liked to look at it from every point of view until he had found the best solution. His mind had never been idle from the time of the "incident" at the Marco Polo Bridge, but today he had been arrested and things had come to a head, so there was no need to think any more. His face was pale but there was a slight smile on his lips. He had entered Peking University, for he saw very clearly that it was Peking University. The cell in which Mr. Chien had stayed had been altered . The front waIIs had been taken away from a whole row of first-floor rooms and thick iron bars set in closely, like the cages in a zoo . . The ceIIs were very smaII. Each one was large enough only to hold a pair of wild boar or foxes . There were ten or twelve prisoners in each ceII . AII they could do was to stand back to chest, mouth to the back of the other's head. No one could move. Rey Shuan glanced down the row. There were at least ten of these animal cages. He shuddered . Two Japanese soldiers only stood outside the cages. Six eyes-two for each soldier and two for their guns-could without trouble control the situation. Rey Shuan hung his head. He did not know whether he was to be placed in the coIIective "standing" cage or not. If he should once go in, he thought, two days would be enough to make him stop breathing. He was led, however, to a small empty cell. He said to himself, "This is probably lenient treatment." When the low iron door was 266

opened, he had to bend himself almost double to get in. There was nothing on the ground except patches of blood deeper in color than the earth and vile of smell. He turned quickly and faced the iron bars. He saw the sunshine and he saw a soldier. The bright bayonet made the sunshine colder. Lifting his head, he saw a wire from which hung an already decayed hand suspended from the ceiling. He drew his eyes back quickly and without thinking looked at the east wall. On the wall was nailed a complete human skin, all stretched out. He wanted to leave immediately, but he saw the iron bars. He turned his eyes to the west wall . On that wall was a hori­ zontal scroll on which were mounted seven human ears, each one neatly numbered in red ink. Beside each ear was a small design, executed with great artistry. Rey Shuan did not look further. He shut his mouth tight and gritted his teeth . He determined to think no more about his family for he saw that his fate had been decided by the Japanese. His hands and skin would probably also be exhibit items. Well, since his fate was settled, he might as well face it with a smile. But it was a cold smile. He did not know how long he had stood there without moving when a very short Japanese in plain clothes looked at him like a mouse from outside the iron bars and then walked away smiling. Rey Shuan had been unwilling to sit down; it seemed as if by standing he could show more strength and determination. After a while the mouse came back again and bowed derisively to Rey Shuan. He opened his mouth and said in Chinese, "Are you too ceremonious to sit down? I will bring a friend to keep you com­ pany." He turned and raised his arm. Two soldiers brought over a half-dead man and set him down beside the bars. They raised him to a standing position . The man's face was swollen so Rey Shuan could not tell how old he was. The man could not stand so the two soldiers took a rope and bound him to the iron bars. "All right, Mr. Chi. This man would not do as he was told so we make him stand all the time." The mouse spoke with a smile and pointed to the feet of the half-dead man . Rey Shuan now saw that each of the man's ten toes had been nailed to a board. The man swayed from right to left but could not fall because of the ropes that held him. His toes were already black. After a long time the man cried out. A soldier ran quickly over and with the butt of his rifle as though pounding rice, pounded the man's toes. One of the already rotting toes broke off. The man gave a howl like a hungry wolf, and then dropped his head and did not make another sound. "You make noise, I beat," the soldier cursed the half-dead 26 7

man but watched Rey Shuan . Then caressingly he picked up the toe that had broken off and looked at it with great appreciation. After a time he put his rifle under his arm, took a piece of paper from his pocket, wrapped up the toe, and marked a number on it. Then he smiled at Rey Shuan and returned to his ·post. Within half an hour the mouse came back, looked at the man outside the bars and looked at Rey Shuan . The man outside had stopped breathing. The mouse with mock pity said, "The man was not well made. He wore the gaeta for three days only and died. Chinese do not go in for physical training." And he shook his head as if he were very much worried about the health of the Chinese. He sighed, and then said to Rey Shuan, "Are there no gaeta in the British Embassy?" Rey Shuan did not answer, but understood what was his crime. The mouse tightened his face. "You respect England but do not respect Great Japan. You must change your mind." When he had finished speaking he kicked the dead man with all his might. The words came out between his clenched teeth, "Chinese are all alike, all bad ." His two bright eyes stared at Rey Shuan. Rey Shuan barely looked at the mouse. The mouse became angry. "You are smart. You will also wear the gaeta." He walked away . with long strides as if to cover half the earth with each step. Rey Shuan looked in sad stupefaction at the feet that were wait­ ing for the nails that would be driven into the toes . He knew that his body was not very strong. Perhaps after the nails were driven in he would live for only two days. Those two days would be very painful but he would know nothing when they were once passed . He hoped that the business would be as simple as that. He acknowledged his mistake : he must die in this piteous manner be­ cause he had been indecisive and slow, and had not gone out to join the war of resistance. Two prisoners silently carried away the dead man . The prisoners both had tears in their eyes but they did not say a word. There were suddenly more guards in the courtyard . Japanese came in and went out, busy as ants moving. Rey Shuan did not know about the assassination outside the Park of the Southern Sea, but felt only that it was amusing to see the dwarfs rushing around . To be born as a human being was already pitiful enough, but to be born a Japanese and to spend the pitiful life entirely on meaningless violence and stupid struggles, was not only pitiful but laughable. Prisoners, in batches, were driven in like sheep from the outside. Rey Shuan did not know what had happened but hoped only that ·

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there had been a disturbance or a revolt. A revolt, even if unsuc­ cessful, was still glorious; but to be waiting silently here as he was, waiting silently to be skinned or have his toes nailed to a board . . .

Chapter Eleven 1JEY SHUAN had been arrested at a time that was fortunate for 1" him. The High Command was busy examining the "assassins" and so except for the mouse who came daily to see him and ridicule him, there was no one who paid attention to him. At noon and in the evening of the first day he had been given a piece of bread blacker than the ground and a bowl of water. Facing the human skin on the wall he could swallow nothing, but drank only the water. On the second day he was given a different kind of food-a bowl of kaoliang gruel . He did not know why he had been arrested, and now he did not know why his food was better. Mr. Goodrich had been trying to think of the most practical and effective way to save Rey Shuan. His first thought in dealing with any matter was to send a document to the Japanese; but he was an orientalized Englishman. He knew that before his document could start to the Japanese, Rey Shuan might already have been tortured, and that by the time it reached them his life might already have been taken. The Japanese would then return a very polite note saying that they had made inquiry but there was no such person. To send an official document Mr. Goodrich would certainly have to get the permission of the Ambassador. That would be very complicated and might also invoke the displeasure of the Ambas­ sador. For speed and to avoid trouble he used the Eastern way of doing things. He hunted up a "Big Brother," gave him money-his own money -and begged the "Big Brother" to buy Rey Shuan out. The money was passed over and Rey Shuan had kaoliang gruel to eat the very next day. On the third day-the day that Little Tsui's head was cut off­ at about eight in the evening, the mouse brought all the things that had been taken from Rey Shuan when he was searched. The smile on the face of the mouse made his face look like a roll that had been split in steaming. He said in a low voice, "Japanese big, big good-polite, kind, just. Now you go." He handed the things to Rey Shuan, and then his face tightened . "You swear-things inside here, no tell people anything. You tell-you come back, you wear gaeta."

Rey Shuan looked blankly at the mouse. The Japanese were really a puzzle. Even if he were an omniscient god he would have no way to understand the game the mouse was playing. He took the oath . He now understood why Mr. Chien had never told what had happened to him in prison . The mouse seemed unwilling to let go the leather billfold. Rey Shuan remembered that there were three one-dollar bills inside, several cards, and two pawn tickets . Rey Shuan did not stretch out his hand for the billfold nor did he wish to let the mouse have it. Finally the mouse could hold in no longer. With a smile he asked, "Want a friend? Want a friend?" Rey Shuan nodded and the mouse kept the billfold. The mouse praised him, "You really, really good. Please, come with me." Rey Shuan walked slowly out of the cell, and the mouse led him to the back gate. He hired a rickshaw. Although he had starved for three days he had not felt tired in jail because his anger had held up his strength and his spirit. Now outside the gate of the jail his anger subsided, and his legs were immediately weak, and when he sat in the rick­ shaw he felt dizzy. He took hold of the seat of the rickshaw to steady himself. The rickshaw puller was a man of about forty and his legs were slow. To cover his slowness he began to talk. "I say, Mister, do you know the name of the rickshaw puller whose head was cut off today?" Rey Shuan did not know. "His surname was Tsui and he lived in the west city." Rey Shuan immediately thought of Little Tsui but immediately let go the idea. He knew that Little Tsui was pulling on contract for Rey Feng, and could not suddenly and without cause have his head cut off. But thinking again-would it be so strange if it were Little Tsui? Had he not himself been arrested without cause or crime? "Why was he-" "Well, we still don't know, Mister." The rickshaw puller lowered his voice. "Weren't the special envoys killed by us? The man named Tsui and about two thousand other people were arrested. Tsui lost his head. Whether it was really he that did the deed or not, no one knows. Anyhow, our heads are not worth money. Let them chop. His mother's --!" Rey Shuan now understood why so many people had been brought into the prison during the past two days. He also under­ stood why he had not been tried or tortured. He had been fortunate in the time of his arrest. Suddenly the rickshaw was at his gate. He had forgotten that he 270

did not have a cent of money with him. He said to the rickshaw puller, "Wait, I'll get the money for you." "Yes, sir, no hurry," the rickshaw puller said politely. Rey Shuan knocked very calmly at the gate. He heard Yun Mei's steps. She stopped and asked in a low voice, "Who is there?" He replied, "I." She quickly opened the gate and husband and wife stood face to face. If she had been a Western woman she would have rushed forward and embraced her husband closely; but she was a Chinese woman and did not know what was best to do. She said, "You have come back." "Pay the rickshaw," Rey Shuan said in a low voice, and walked on into the court. He did not feel the happiness and excitement of the reunion of husband and wife. He felt that to have been arrested secretly and returned secretly was a great humiliation. If he had been injured or been branded on the face he would have stepped proudly over the threshold and smilingly received the comforting of his family; but he was like a dog that had strayed for three days and comes home with his tail between his legs . In the morning when he got up his body was stiff as though he had a cold. He decided, however, to go and see Mr. Goodrich . When he saw Mr. Goodrich he could not find suitable words to express his gratitude. Mr. Goodrich asked only one question, "Any­ thing unpleasant?" He gave Rey Shuan no chance to say words of gratitude, nor did he tell how he had saved Rey Shuan. He said not a word about using his own money for the bribe. He would never mention it to Rey Shuan. "Rey Shuan"-the old man stretched his neck-"you should rest a couple of days . You don't look well ." Rey Shuan was unwilling to rest. "Do as you wish . I invite you, when we are through with our work, to have a drink with me." The old man smiled and left Rev Shuan . This experience gave Rey Shuan deep satisfaction. He had not told the old man much · and the old man had not said much to him, but in their hearts they understood each other. Rey Shuan saw that the old man was really pleased, and the old man saw th at Rey Shuan was truly grateful to him. To say more was to waste words. This was the English way of doing things, and it was also the Chinese way to make friendship. At noon, after each had had a glass of wine the old man began to speak of the worries in his mind. "Rey Shuan, from this experi­ ence of yours I can see something, something-well, perhaps I am ·

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oversensitive. I hope it is only that I am oversensitive, but I think that sooner or later the Japanese will attack the English." "You think so?" Rey Shuan did not dare say anything definite. He now knew that there was no way to calculate what the Japanese would do. To guess what the Japanese would do was to be able to foretell what the mice would do in the night. "Can they? Why could they not? I have found out that your arrest was entirely due to your working here in the Embassy." "But England has the most powerful navy." "Who knows? I hope that what I think is merely because I am overanxious ." The old man stared silently at the wine glass and said no more. When they had finished drinking the old man said to Rey Shuan, "Go home. I give you half a day's leave. In the afternoon, at about four or five o'clock, I will come to see you and help to comfort the old man. If it is not too much trouble, make a few chiaotse for me." Rey Shuan nodded in agreement. Morning Lotus was especially interested in the affairs of the Chi family. Since Rey Shuan had been cool toward him he could not help being pleased at their misfortune, and since Little Tsui was beheaded he thought that probably Rey Shuan would die also. He knew that if Rey Shuan died, the Chi family would collapse, and if the Chi family collapsed he would certainly buy their house and rent it to the Japanese. With neighbors on the right and on the left both Japanese, he would feel more secure, as though he were actually living in Japan. But Rey Shuan had come out of prison, so Morning Lotus quickly changed his attitude. He reasoned that since Rey Shuan had been arrested but not killed, he must be an important person. Therefore Morning Lotus stood often outside his own gate to watch the comings and goings at the gate of Number Five. He saw Mr. Goodrich at about five o'clock knocking at the Chi family gate. He ran into his own courtyard. "Director, Director, an Englishman has come." "What?" Big Red Pepper asked in surprise. "An Englishman, gone to the Chi home." "Really?" Big Red Pepper asked. "Should we not go over to give them comfort?" "Of course we should. We should go at once. Then we will also make friends with that old Englishman." Morning Lotus started quickly to change his clothes. "Director, please forgive me for having more words," Dr. Kao with great respect said to Big Red Pepper. "Would that be a cor272

rect thing to do? In times like these we should keep to one end of the pole. It is better not to stand with one foot in each boat. To go to the Chi house and be seen by the secret police-or per­ haps- Director, don't you think I am right?" Morning Lotus without thinking nodded his head. "Dr. Kao, you are right." Big Red Pepper considered for a while and said, "What you say has some reason; however, those who do important things should be able to see around all eight sides. The more sides one can see at any one time the more one is able to survive under any circum­ stance. I have recently made friends with the important people, and look, do they say that the Central Government is no good? No. Would they say that the Nanking government is no good? No. Do they say that England and America or Germany and Italy · are no good? No. That is why they have become important people. They keep a door open in every direction, and so, no matter who is in power they have rice to eat, and they are always important people. Dr. Kao, your vision is limited." "Exactly, exactly," Morning Lotus said quickly. "I think that also. Good, let's go over and visit the Chi family." Big Red Pepper nodded. Mr. Goodrich and Old Man Chi got on very well together. In the eyes of Mr. Goodrich everything about Old Man Chi had the genuine Chinese flavor and fitted closely with the idea of the Chinese in Mr. Goodrich's mind. Old Man Chi insisted that his guest should sit in the seat of honor, and from time to time offered tea. This pleased Mr. Goodrich. Mrs . Tien Yiu and Yun Mei made a very good impression on Mr. Goodrich. Although their feet had never been bound, neither was their hair curled and they did not use lipstick. They were ex­ tremely ceremonious toward their guest, and elaborate ceremony always made Mr. Goodrich happy. Little Precious and Niu Niu looked at Mr. Goodrich, and felt strange and a little frightened. They wanted to touch the old man's clothes but felt shy. This also pleased Mr. Goodrich. He wanted to pick Niu Niu up, and said, "Come, look at my big nose and blue eyes." From their ceremonies and their manner and from their way of talking Mr. Goodrich seemed to see in one glance the whole history, the whole chronicle of the quickly changing modern China. Old Man Chi represented the people in the Manchu dynasty-the Chinese Mr. Goodrich most liked to see. Mrs . Tien Yiu represented those between the Manchu dynasty and the Republic. She had 2 73

kept many of the old ways but did not hinder the new ways from coming. Rey Shuan was entirely a man of the Republic. Although he and his grandfather were only about forty years apart in age, in their thoughts they were separated by one or two centuries. Little Precious and Niu Niu were the people of the future. What would the Chinese of the future be like? Mr. Goodrich could not imagine. He liked Old Man Chi best but he could not stop the changes in Mrs. Tien Yiu and Rey Shuan, and even more he would not be able to stay the continuous change that would come to Little Precious and Niu Niu. He would like to see the rich and unique Chinese culture remain unchanged, but China like a boat blown by a strong wind must go forward with th� current. As he watched the four generations he felt that they were a peculiar family; although they were all Chinese there were so many patterns, com­ plicated by so many changes of so many kinds, and most strange of all, these dissimilar people lived in one compound and in close harmony. It seemed that each was changing, yet there was also a power within them that, in spite of the changes, kept the family from disintegration and from becoming scattered. In this peculiar family it seemed that each one was loyal to his own period and at the same time was not opposed to those in which the others lived. They had rolled the different periods together as many ingre­ dients and herbs are rolled together to make medicine. They all followed history and at the same time they all resisted history. Big Red Pepper and Morning Lotus walked in, dressed in their smartest clothes to make a good impression on the Englishman . Big Red Pepper wore a dress o f imported cloth, cut foreign style without collar, and her arms were bare. Her lips were painted with a wide red smear, and her hair was a mass of rolls and curls, big and small. She looked like a well-dressed witch . When they entered Rey Shuan stood still, thinking to refuse to greet them, but quickly made up his mind : he had been in prison and seen people in hell; he need waste no anger on such petty demons as these. He decided not to get angry or to refuse to let them in, but to amuse himself with them as he would with a kitten or a puppy. Mr. Goodrich was startled. He had just been thinking that all Chinese were changing but he had never imagined that Chinese could change into witches and werewolves . Rey Shuan introduced them. "Mr. Goodrich, Mr. and Mrs . Kuan-the best and most trusted friends of the Japanese." Big Red Pepper recognized Rey Shuan's sarcasm but took it without rancor and laughed shrilly. "What a way to talk! Can the 2 74

Japanese be greater than the English? Honorable Sir, don't listen to Rey Shuan's nonsense." Morning Lotus had not caught the sarcasm; he was thinking only of his desire to shake hands with Mr. Goodrich. He considered handshaking the most civilized and most progressive ceremony in the world. Mr. Goodrich, however, did not like to shake hands. He put his hands together in the traditional Chinese salute. Morning Lotus hastened to clasp his own hands together also. "Honorable Sir, you are really wonderful. You know how to make our ceremonious gesture." The Kuan couple forgot completely about comforting Rey Shuan but directed their words, their eyes, and their attention all to Mr. Goodrich. Big Red Pepper's words were like a torrent pour­ ing on him; and whenever he answered her with ceremonious phrases Morning Lotus would praise him. Mr. Goodrich began to regret his orien taliza tion . If he had been still an unadulterated Englishman he would have stiffened his face and given the she-devil a very cold shoulder. But he was an orien­ talized Englishman and had learned the overpoliteness of cere­ monious social intercourse, and he could not "push people off a thousand Ii." Finally Morning Lotus, again clasping his hands in salute, said, "Honorable Sir, is there need of any to work in the English Palace? I would be willing to go-yes, willing, you know. Ha ha ! I salute you ." Thus cornered, Mr. Goodrich decided to sacrifice his chiaotse and leave. He stood up and said stammering, "Rey Shuan, I have just remembered-ah-um- I have a little business. Some other day-some other day, I'll come again. Most certainly-" Not wait­ ing for Rey Shuan to say anything, Mr. and Mrs . Kuan quickly got up and blocked the old man's way. Big Red Pepper with ten­ parts warmth said, "Honorable Sir, we won't let you go, no matter what business you may have. We have prepared some wine and food . You must give us face." "Yes, Honorable Sir, if you don't give us face, my wife will cer­ tainly weep." Mr. Goodrich was completely at a loss . When an Englishman is at a loss he is really helpless. Rey Shuan did not lose his temper, but very calmly and with determination he said, "Mr. Kuan, Mr. Goodrich cannot go with you . We are about to eat and we are not inviting you to stay." Mr. Goodrich swallowed. 27 5

"Well, well!" Big Red Pepper sighed and said, "If we can't get our way we must not stay here and be a nuisance. Rey Shuan, we'll see you again. We like your straightforward ways, like a European." Big Red Pepper rolled her eyes saying goodbye to all and Morning Lotus followed her. As he walked out he turned constantlv to fold his hands ceremoniously and bow. Rey Shuan nodded to them from inside the room and did not accompany them to the gate. Mr. Goodrich stretched his neck several times after they had gone before he could speak. "Those-are they also Chinese?" ·

'?'HE \/

Chapter Twelve

MOUNTAINS had burst forth suddenly and the earth had opened, and Little Mrs . Tsui was buried alive in the abyss. Little Tsui had never given her an easy life but he had not let her starve and also he had really loved her. No matter whether Little Tsui had been good or bad, he was her husband, and now his head had been taken off. She even forgot how to weep. She had come to the end of all things, and she did not know why it should be so. She fainted and Old Widow Ma, Chang Shun, Sun the Seventh, and Fourth Mistress Li revived her. All she could do, when she came to, was to stare straight ahead and wail until her voice was gone. She was in a stupor. After a long while she suddenly got up and ran out, almost knocking Mrs. Li down. "Sun the Seventh, stop her," called Fourth Mistress. Sun the Seventh and Chang Shun, exerting all their strength, managed to get her back. Her hair, loosened and uncombed, was stuck to her face with tears. She had on only one of her broken shoes . In her hoarse voice she said, "Let me go, let me go. I will find the Japanese." Just at this moment Fourth Master Li came in. "Ai yo !" Fourth Mistress beat her fist against her knee. "You Old Thing, where have you been? Why didn't you come sooner?" Sun the Seventh, Old Widow Ma, and Chang Shun at once began to feel strength and confidence when Fourth Master came in; he was one for them to cluster round. "Watch her," Fourth Master said to Fourth Mistress. "Mrs . Ma, Sun the Seventh, Chang Shun, come all of you." He led them into Mrs. Ma �s room. When all were seated Fourth Master said, "First we must all ·

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be calm, for we must make plans. The first thing is to get a suit of mourning for her. Then we must get the body and think of how to bury it. All this requires money, and where can we get the money?" Sun the Seventh rubbed his eyes. Old Mrs. Ma and Chang Shun looked at each other. No one said a word. Fourth Master Li added, "To get the body and bury it, I can manage, but I must have money� I have no money myself. Shall we go from door to door for con­ tributions?" Sun the Seventh said angrily, "Hung! In the whole of the Little Sheep Fold only the Kuan family have money, but I cannot go and ask them for money. What a thing to have to say-I can't go to a brothel for charity." "I will go to the Kuan family," Chang Shun said. Old Mrs. Ma did not want Chang Shun to go to the Kuan family but it would not look well to keep him from a good deed. She knew that Little Tsui's body should not be left on the ground. Who knew but that the wild dogs would eat it? "Don't think that it is the people who have money that will give it," Fourth Master said calmly. "Let's do it this way. Sun the Sev­ enth, you go with your hand out to all the shops on the street. Don't urge. Whatever they give will be something. Chang Shun and I will make the rounds in this Little Sheep Fold, then Chang Shun can go to see Chi Rey Feng. Didn't Little Tsui pull contract rickshaw for him? I will go to see Chi Tien Yiu and ask him for a piece of white cloth to make a mourning coat for Little Mrs. Tsui. Old Mrs. Ma, if I can get the cloth would you be willing to sew it up.7" "That would be easy. My eyes are still good." Old Mrs. Ma was very happy to be of service. Sun the Seventh was not pleased to go out begging but he did not refuse. He went out rubbing his eyes. "Let's go," Fourth Master said to Chang Shun. Then he turned to Old Mrs. Ma and said, "Help my wife to watch her. Don't let her out." Outside the gate Fourth Master said to Chang Shun, "You start with Number Three-there is no need to go to Number One­ and I will start at the other end. Whatever anyone gives will do. We must not get angry." The old man and the young man sepa­ rated and each went his way. Before Chang Shun could knock at the gate Dr. Kao came out of the compound, and seeing Chang Shun said, "Yo, what have you come for?" 2 77

Chang Shun trying to act grown-up said, very politely, "Little Tsui is dead. His family is desperately poor. I have come to the old neighbors to ask for help." Dr. Kao listened seriously and as he listened his face gradually became more solemn and more sympathetic. When he had heard the story he even wiped his eyes with a handkerchief and wiped away one or two imaginary tears. Then slowly he pulled out ten dollars from his pocket and holding it in his hand he said, "The Kuans were not fond of Little Tsui. · There is no need for you to go in and strike against the nails. I have here some money from a special fund. Take it. This is money for charity to the poor. I give you ten dollars this time, and you can come back five or six times; but you mustn't tell anyone about it. The fund is small and if you tell, everyone will come and beg, and I will be in difficulties. I know that Little Mrs. Tsui is very poor, so I am happy to give her a share, but don't tell her where this money comes from. Come again and get money for her. This money is all contributed by charitable people and they don't like to have their names known . Here-take it." He gave the bill to Chang Shun . Chang Shun's face flushed. He was excited : at the very first gate he had met the God of Wealth. "Oh, there is a small matter of routine," Dr. Kao said as though he had just thought of it. He pulled out a little notebook and a pen. "When others entrust me to carry out something for them I must have proof. Sign here. Routine only. Nothing important." Chang Shun looked at the little notebook. On the first pages were some names, amounts of money, and the signatures. He could see nothing wrong and because he was anxious to get on to the other families, he signed. "No importance really," said Dr. Kao as he took back the note­ book and the pen. "Good, tell Little Mrs . Tsui for me that she must not sorrow. Friends all wish to help." Chang Shun went hap­ pily toward Number Five and then changed his mind. He already had ten dollars in his hands and the Chi family had had their troubles. He decided not to ask them for money. He went to Num­ ber Six. He knew that neither John Ting nor Master Liu were at home, so he went directly to Little Wen. Little Wen was practicing the flute, but when he saw Chang Shun come in he laid it down and put the wet cord-like a small snake-into the flute. Chang Shun explained in a few words why he was there. Little Wen called into the inner room asking his wife, "Sunset, how much money have we?" He never knew how much money there was in the house, or even if there was any. ·

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"We have a little over three dollars." "Give it to me." Sunset came from the inner room with three dollars and forty cents on her palm. "Is it true that Little Tsui-" she asked Chang Shun. "Don't ask that." Little Weri knitted his brows. "All must die. Who knows when his own head will drop?" Slowly he took the money and put it in Chang Shun's hands. "I am sorry we have so little." Chang Shun was moved. "But, isn't this all- If I take it all, you-" "Isn't that something that happens often?" Little Wen smiled. "My head is still attached to my body." Slowly Chang Shun put th e money in his belt and walked out. When Chang Shun had almost reached the gate he heard again the sound of Little Wen's flute. That wasn't the music of a flute­ that was bitter weeping. He quickened his steps. The sound of the flute had made his tears come. As he neared the gate of Number Seven he met Fourth Master Li coming out. He asked, "How is it Fourth Grandfather?" "I have altogether twelve dollars and ten cents. And you?" ."A little more than you, Fourth Grandfather-thirteen dollars and forty cents ." "Good. Give me the money and go to see Chi Rey Feng." The reception room of the Commission of Education was filled with people. Chang Shun found an out-of-the-way corner and sat down . Watching the people come and go and looking at his own shoes covered with dust and his · torn long gown, he felt ill at ease. He hoped that Rey Feng would soon come, and that the business could be quickly finished. But Rey Feng made him wait over half an hour. Most of those in . the room had left before Rey Feng, carrying his imitation ivory cigarette holder in his mouth and with his head thrown back, came in. He first nodded and greeted the other people and then he looked as though accidentally at Chang Shun . "What do you want?" Rey Feng asked with a stiff face. "Oh, first I must tell you that you must not come running here without any reason. This is a government office." Chang Shun wanted to slap Rey Feng hard, but he had been delegated to do a piece of work and could not give in to his anger. His face flushed, but with his anger controlled he said in a low voice, "Little Tsui-" "Which Little Tsui? What connection have I with Little Tsui? 2 79 ·

Boy, what do you mean-confusing relationships and responsibili­ ties, trying to saddle me with a beheaded ghost. Stupid, you'd bet­ ter leave. I don't know any Little Tsui, or Little Sun. Go, I am very busy." He took his cigarette holder out of his mouth, tapped it twice with his forefinger, threw back his head and walked out of the room. Chang Shun shook with anger and his face became the color of an eggplant. But before long he became calm again. He smiled sadly and walked slowly out of the room. He went straight to Little Tsui's room when he reached home. Sun the Seventh and Fourth Mistress were both there. Little Mrs . Tsui was lying on the kang. She sat up suddenly when she heard Chang Shun come in and looked straight at him. It was as though she knew him but, also, as if she took him to represent everyone. "His death was unjust, unjust, unjust." Fourth Mistress, as though she were caring for a baby, laid her down again. "Be good-sleep awhile-be good." Little Mrs. Tsui lay as if dead with no motion at all. Sun the Seventh turned to Chang Shun. "How was it? How much money did Rey Feng give you?" The fire of Chang Shun's anger burned again. "That rotten egg -not one copper did he bring out. Just wait-sometime when he is alone, I'll give him something to rememher. It would be strange if I didn't throw gravel in his eyes and blind him." "He is not the only one who should be beaten," Sun the Seventh sighed and said. "I went to more than ten shops and got only five dollars. If the Japanese told them to pay a tax, and asked for ten­ would they dare give nine and a half? For Little Tsui their money seemed to be strung on their ribs . His mother's --!" "Don't curse, you two." Old Mrs . Ma walked in with light step. "If they give, it's sympathy; if they don't give, it's their loss." Fourth Master Li came in carrying a piece of coarse white cloth. "Old Mrs. Ma, will you sew it for her? Chi Tien Yiu is a real friend. Look at it. Such a long piece of cloth, and he gave two dollars besides." "Queer-why doesn't that fellow Rey Feng learn from his father and his brother?" said Sun the Seventh, and then told Fourth Master Li how Rey Feng had refused to help. Old Mrs . Ma took the piece of white cloth and went out. She did not like to listen to Sun the Seventh and Chang Shun criti­ cizing people. According to her way of thinking, Rey Feng and his father belonged to the same family, and since Chi Tien Yiu had given cloth and money even though Rey Feng had given nothing, 2 80

it should be counted as enough. Can all ten toes be of the same length? Her genuine Chinese dialectic made her go out of her way to find excuses for people, and kept her from anger even when she suffered from injustice. She began very carefully to make the mourning gown for Little Mrs. Tsui. Outside the Great Front Gate of the city, in the central arch of the Five Arched Pailou, hung two heads. One faced south and one faced north. Sun the Seventh was shortsighted, but when he reached the gate he began to look carefully, and when he reached the bridge over the moat he pulled Fourth Master Li's sleeve and said, "Fourth Master, are those two black balls they?" Fourth Master did not answer. Sun the Seventh hurried forward. When he reached the Pailou he squinted his eyes and looked upward, and saw clearly. The one facing north was the head of Little Tsui. There was no expression on Little Tsui's face. His eyes were closed and his mouth was slightly open. The two cheeks were sunken. He hung in the air as though dreaming. On his neck was some wrinkled black skin. Sun the Seventh bent his head and saw his own shadow and the red pillars of the Pailou. He put his arms around the last pillar. He could stand no longer. Fourth Master caught up with him. "Corne, Sun the Seventh ." Sun the Seventh could not move. His face was ghastly white. Big tears were in the corners of his eyes, and the eyes were fixed . "Corne," Fourth Master said as he seized Sun the Seventh's shoulder. Sun the Seventh, walking like a drunkard, went with Fourth Master. Fourth Master held him by the arm. After walking awhile Sun the Seventh said, "Fourth Master, you'll have to go alone. I can't make it." He sat down outside a shop. Fourth Master walked on south alone. When he reached the Bridge of Heaven, Fourth Master made inquiry in the tea shops, and learned that Little Tsui's body had already been dragged away westward, and so he walked west looking for it. On a pile of broken bricks, outside the Altar of Agriculture enclosure, he found Little Tsui' s headless body. Little Tsui was naked and barefooted, and two or three toes had already been eaten by the dogs. A policeman stood about twenty or thirty feet from where Little Tsui lay. Fourth Master went over. "May I ask," the old man said with great politeness to the policeman, "whether I may take this body away or not?"

The policeman was also very polite. "You have come for the body? You may take it. If it is not taken away the dogs will eat it. The chauffeur has already been taken away." "There is then no need to report to the local police station?" "Of course you should report." "What about the head?" "Na, that I cannot say. The body was dragged from the Bridge of Heaven to this place. Those above gave no order for us to watch the bodies, but our sergeant told me to stand here, on guard. He was afraid the dogs would carry it away. We're all Chinese. I think, Old Uncle, you had better first take the body. As for the head- His mother's --! What kind of a world is this?" The old man thanked the policeman and returned to the pile of broken bricks . He looked at Little Tsui and then he looked at the Altar of Agriculture. He remembered that in his youth there had been here only the red walls and the green cedars, and no people. Then when the Republic was established, and there was a Parliament, this became the most popular part of the city. Inside the walls of the Altar of Agriculture enclosure, an amusement center-the South City Park-was opened. The New World The­ ater was built opposite the altar. Every day was like a New Year's Day. Here were the most beautiful and gay restaurants and silk stores, the most charming and alluring women, and the lights of all five colors on the streets. And then the New World Theater and the South City Park were closed, and the members of Parliament and the prostitutes left Peiping; and suddenly there were not even carts on the main street of this place that had been so prosperous. The great walls around the outer enclosure of the Altar of Agri­ culture had been pulled down; and the bricks, and tiles, and earth, were sold. The pile of broken bricks on which Little Tsui's body lay was what had been left over when they pulled down and sold the walls. The great pines in the altar enclosure were still green, but Little Tsui's blood had reddened two pieces of broken brick. The more Fourth Master looked the more confused he became. Was this, after all, Little Tsui? If he had not known that Little Tsui had been beheaded, he would not have been able to believe that this was Little Tsui's body. He looked at the body and he thought Little Tsui had a head. The head had leapt from the old man's mind to the ugly black and purple neck. But when he looked closely, there was indeed no head there. Suddenly the old man again did not recognize Little Tsui : his head suddenly there and suddenly not there, suddenly there were features and suddenly just 2 82

a circle of light, suddenly Little Tsui was speaking and laughing, and suddenly there was nothing. The policeman came slowly over. "Old Uncle, you-" Fourth Master was startled and rubbed his eyes. He sighed and said, "Little Tsui, I must first bury your body." When he had said this he went to the local station to see the sergeant and attend to all the procedures for taking away the body. Then in a nearby coffin shop he bought a coffin of willow wood, a little stronger than one through which a dog could knock a hole with his head. He told the people in the coffin shop to send immediately for the car­ riers, and for five Buddhist monks, and moreover, to dig a hole in the paupers' burial ground west of the Altar of Agriculture enclosure. When he had made the arrangements Fourth Master Li got into a tram car at the Bridge of Heaven. The old man shut his eyes when the tram started, and then when he opened his eyes he saw that none of the people in the car had heads-those sitting and those standing were all headless, all like Little Tsui as he lay on the pile of broken bricks. Quickly he blinked his eyes and everyone had heads again . He muttered to himself, "With the Japanese here, no one's head is safe." When he reached home he consulted with Old Mrs. Ma and Sun the Seventh, and they decided that Sun the Seventh must go with him to the Bridge of Heaven. Sun the Seventh did not want to go again, but the old man wanted someone with him as a wit­ ness. Sun the Seventh reluctantly consented. They also decided not to let Little Mrs. Tsui go with them for fear of danger to her. These decisions made, they thought of clothes for Little Tsui. They could not let Little Tsui enter the coffin without a head and without clothes. Old Mrs. Ma brought out a short white coat of Chang Shun's, and Sun the Seventh found a pair of socks and a pair of blue cotton trousers; and carrying these things Fourth Master Li and Sun the Seventh again took the tram car to the Bridge of Heaven. When they reached the Bridge of Heaven the sun was already low in the west. It was about five o'clock. Fourth Master said to Sun the Seventh, as soon as they got out of the tram, "It is not early, we must make haste." But Sun the Seventh's legs had again weakened. Fourth Master became impatient. "What kind of a Thing are you?" "I?" Sun the Seventh blinked his shortsighted eyes. " I am not afraid to look at a corpse-but Little Tsui-Little Tsui was our friend. My heart aches."

"Whose heart does not ache? But heartache alone does not get things done. Stiffen your spine. I know you are a person with bones." Encouraged in this way by the old man, Sun the Seventh hastened his steps . The old man bought some paper money and incense and candles in a little shop. When they reached the place outside the Altar of Agriculture enclosure, the coffin, the carriers, and the monks had already ar­ rived. The master of the coffin shop, a friend of Fourth Master Li's, was also there. Fourth Master told Sun the Seventh to light the incense and the candles, and to burn the paper money. He himself put the coat and trousers on Little Tsui. Sun the Seventh gathered bits of broken brick to hold up the incense and the candles, and then lighted the paper money. He never once lifted his head to look at Little Tsui. Little Tsui was put into the coffin. Fourth Master gave the order for the coffin lid to be nailed down and the monks began to play the sacred music. The carriers lifted the coffin . The monks in front of the coffin walked quickly, and as the coffin was light, the carriers also walked quickly. Fourth Master Li pulled Sun the Seventh to his feet and they followed . "Is the grave ready?" Fourth Master's eyes were full of tears as he asked the master of the coffin shop. "It is ready. The carriers know the place." "Then, Master, you had better return. I will see you later in your shop, and will settle the account." "All right, Fourth Master. I'll prepare tea and wait for you." The manager of the coffin shop went back. The sun was about to set behind the hills. The fading red and gold light shone on the unpainted, boxlike white coffin, carried along so hastily. In front were the five thin, paldaced monks and behind were Fourth Master Li and Sun the Seventh. There were no banners and none of the usual funeral insignia. There was no one in white mourning clothes. There was only that white wooden box which held the headless Little Tsui. Facing the sunset it went toward the cold and isolated waste. Several home-coming crows with the dying sunlight glistening on their backs, slowly flew toward the east, and seeing the coffin they cawed several times . The sacred music stopped and the monks went no further. Fourth Master thanked them. The coffin now went even faster. Everywhere in that expanse of waste land were broken tiles and everywhere were weeds thrusting through the debris. Among the 2 84

shards were many little grave mounds . In the midst of four or five little mounds was a shallow hole waiting for Little Tsui. Quickly the coffin was placed into the hole. Fourth Master picked up a handful of earth and spread it on the coffin. "Little Tsui, sleep well."

Chapter Thirteen '?'HE WEATHER suddenly became very cold . On the fourth day \..t after he came out of prison Rey Shuan met Mr. Chien. He saw that Mr. Chien had waited purposely for him at the place · where he left the tram car each day. He had guessed rightly, for Mr. Chien's first words were, "Now, Rey Shuan, you are qualified to talk with me." There was a smile under Mr. Chien's unkempt beard. It was beautiful, like that of a child smiling in his sleep. "Come let us talk." They went into a small tea shop. Mr. Chien asked for a bowl of hot water. "Have a cup of tea," Rey Shuan urged with great respect as he paid the tea money. Mr. Chien sipped the hot water. "I no longer drink tea. You see, those crawling in the trenches and fighting are all ordinary people. They are not scholars and gentry who drink the fragrant jasmine tea. Have you heard from Old Three?'' "No." "Master Liu?" "No news of him either." "Good . There are two roads for those who escape from Peiping. If not dead they are alive. There is only one road for those who wilI not escape and leave Peiping, and that is death ." The old man's voice was very low. Whenever he emphasized a word his eyes became brighter. Rey Shuan moved the cover of the teacup. "Did you suffer?" The old man's eyes looked quickly all around the tea shop. Rey Shuan understood. "No, my flesh was probably not worth beating." "To be beaten is good . Not to be beaten is good also. Whatever happened-whoever has been inside will never forget who is the enemy, and what is his real face. That's why I said a moment ago that you are now qualified to talk with me. I have been thinking of you constantly but I purposely avoided you. I was afraid that you 285

would try to persuade me to give up my little work. Now that you have been in prison and seen death, you will not try to stop me even if you do not help. I dared not see you just as I dare not see Wang the Third and my daughter-in-law." "I went with Scholar Yeh to look for you ." The old man interrupted. '1Don't mention him. He has brains but no bones . He has dug his own grave. Yes, I know his difficulties but I cannot forgive him. I will forgive no one who works even a single day for the Japanese." These words made Rey Shuan tremble, and he asked quickly, '1Uncle Chien, how do you live?" The old man smiled. "I? Very simply. I eat whatever I can get, I wear whatever I can get, and I sleep wherever I am. The whole of Peiping city is my home. To be unencumbered makes me happy. Sometimes what we wear and all our belongings can be a burden to us . I am now rid of all these burdens . I have rid myself of everything and now I can see myself." "Uncle, what work are you doing?" The old man drank a big mouthful of water. '1I do everything. The most important is to build a new structure out of the old-a structure for resistance. You know that battles cannot be won by the work of one man. Perhap� they don't understand me, but slowly we're getting there, slowly. I will not stop, even if what I do is like a drop of water in a desert. A drop is after all a drop, and the courage of the one drop of rain is that it dared to drop in the desert. Whomever I see I urge to leave. I not only tell him to leave Peiping, I tell him to kill. When I see a rickshaw boy I say, 'If you turn over your rickshaw you will kill a Japanese.' When I see a student I say to him, To use a knife from the manual training room at the throat of a Japanese can cause death.' You know that in the past I was one who would not harm an ant, but today I urge people to kill other people. In the future if I again see peace, I will return to my old ways. That people should not kill other people is at the root of all morality, but I will not return to my old ways of thinking at this time. I am a poet-a poet and hunter combined-I know what is peace, and I can also kill to build peace." The old man shut his eyes and rested. After a long time Rey Shuan asked, "Uncle Chien, aren't you afraid that the secret police will take notice of you?" "Of course, of course they notice me." The old man smiled proudly. '11 have my ways, however. I am often with them-you know they are Chinese-and they know that I carry no weapons 2 86

and would not make trouble for them. They probably think me half-crazy, so I pretend to be completely crazy and talk nonsense with them. I have told them that I was in prison and that I defied the torture, so they all know that I am not afraid of prison or of torture. They know· also that I have no money, and that from me they could squeeze nothing. When necessary I threaten them by saying that I was sent here by the National Government. They do not have much idea of nationalism, but neither do they have much faith in the Japanese, and they really hope that the Japanese will be defeated. So when I say that I am from the National Gov­ ernment, they have to do a bit of thinking-they want to keep a way out for themselves. For the time being I am not in danger, but who knows when I will suddenly die, and in a place and time where I did not expect death at all." It had become dark and a small oil lamp was lit in the tea shop. Rey Shuan said quietly, "Uncle Chien, come home with me for a meal. Will you?" The old man refused without the slightest hesitation. "No. To see your grandfather and Little Precious would make me think of my former life, and that would make me feel very unhappy. At present I am like humankind when it first learned to use two legs instead of four, but if I should once relax, I would fall over and again be a four-legged creature. Mankind is weak. It must hold itself up with all its strength." "Then let's eat something in a restaurant." "No, again no. And with the same reason." The old man slowly stood up but then he sat down again. "There is still something I want to say . Do you know Peach Blossom?" Rey Shuan nodded. "She has a heart. You should help her. I have taught her also that word 'kill.' " "Who is she to kill?" "Oh, those who should be killed are many. If it is good to kill a few Japanese, it is also good to kill a few Morning Lotuses, and a few Eastern Suns. A Big Red Pepper would also be good to kill. This war of resistance should be a big cleansing of our Chinese race. The enemy must be swept away, and we should also sweep away our own garbage." "How can I help her?" Rey Shuan asked in distress. "Pump up her courage. Women sometimes decide on a plan but when the time comes cannot carry it out." The old man again slowly stood up. The two men left the tea shop. Rey Shuan was unwilling to 2 87 ·

part from Mr. Chien and walked along with him. After a few steps the old man stood still. "Rey Shuan, 'Accompany a friend a thou­ sand Ii, and yet the parting comes.' Go home, do." Rey Shuan held the old man's hand. "Uncle, can we see each other often?" "It would not be good to see each other often. When I want to see you, I will find you, but you must not look for me. Give my love to your old people." Rey Shuan watched Mr. Chien slowly walk away in the light of a street lamp. When he could no longer see the old man, he turned and went back home. The following day was Saturday. Rey Shuan could leave the of­ fice at two o'clock in the afternoon, so he decided to go to the in­ auguration meeting of the North China Writers' Association, which was to be held at three o'clock in the Park of the Imperial Ancestral Temple. There were many people in the temple though the meeting had not yet started. Rey Shuan signed the register with a false name and looked for a place in the back and sat down. He was able gradually to pick out a few people whom he recog­ nized. That man with a head like an egg sitting on its broad end and topped with a "melon section" cap was the manager of a book store in the Eastern Peace Market that specialized in printing pornographic books . That oily-faced fat one, puffing like a steam engine, was manager of a Liu Li Chang shop that sold copper pen point covers. That round-eyed, fat-faced, little fellow was a young Shantung man, a salesman in a paper store. That one with opium dust on his face and a hairy mole on his cheek was a "fast-talk comedian," Fang the Sixth, nicknamed "Black Mole." Except for Black Mole Fang the Sixth who surely knew him ( since Fang the Sixth lived in Number Seven of the Little Sheep Fold ) , and the three who perhaps would recognize him and perhaps would not, there was none who knew Rey Shuan and he saw none of those who had in times past made the rich literature of Peiping. Big Red Pepper, Meydee, and Morning Lotus came in. Big Red Pepper · wore a long gown of purple satin over which was a red embroidered cape. She had on a large red felt hat of foreign style from which slanted a pheasant feather more than two feet long. As she entered the hall Big Red Pepper pulled her cape into posi­ tion with both hands and the pheasant feather swept from left to right, and from right to left, drawing half-circles. Her eyes, follow­ ing the feather, inspected all in the hall. Thus having made her entrance, her two hands let go of the cape, and shrugging her 2 88

shoulders, she let it fall lightly and swiftly into the hands of Morn­ ing Lotus. Then with one hand on Meydee's arm she walked smoothly forward. Not a hair stirred, only the pheasant feather quivered slightly. The people in the hall stopped laughing and talking, their eyes all drawn to the pheasant feather as iron to a magnet. When she reached the front row she stretched out her hand, and casually as if brushing off flies, she pushed aside the people sitting there and sat down herself, exactly opposite the vase of flowers on the platform. Meydee sat down beside her mother. Morning Lotus, carrying his wife's cape on his left arm, walked forward. He nodded in greeting to people on all sides. His eyes were half closed and his mouth half open, and his lips moved slightly to make people think he was talking to them, but he said not a word. After going a few steps in this way he felt that he had greeted people sufficiently. He shut his mouth . and with quick uneven steps caught up with his wife and, like a little Pekingese dog, sat down beside her. Rey Shuan had watched the act put on by the Kuans and felt that he could sit there no longer. Just then a bell rang outside, Morning Lotus stood up and raising his hands above his head clapped loudly, and all the others in the room followed suit. Rey Shuan could do nothing but sit down again. The first to enter to the sound of clapping was Eastern Sun. He was wearing foreign style clothes but no one could see his tie because his head and back were kept constantly at the angle of the deep Japanese bow. He walked sideways with his hands close to his sides, and his head bent as if he were looking for something on the ground. Behind him Rey Shuan recognized Ita, the Japanese author who had once been well known for his antiwar writings. Ten years ago Rey Shuan had heard him lecture. He was a small man with a big belly and he looked like a pickle jar walking. Today his belly protruded more than ever, and as Eastern Sun walked sideways up the aisle-bow­ ing deeply-his head was constantly at about the place where Ita's belly was. This displeased Ita so much that after walking a few steps, he pushed away the head so near his belly and arrogantly mounted the steps. Without waiting for the others to come onto the platform he sat in the central seat. He did not look at the audience but looked disdainfully at the painted ceiling. The next three to come in were Japanese. They were all short but each walked as though he felt himself to be a sacred pagoda . Behind the Japanese were two Koreans. Behind the Koreans were two youths from Manchuria.

When all the representatives were on the platfrom, Lan the Eastern Sun, still bowing, also mounted the platform. At this moment Kuan the Morning Lotus stood up and beckoned toward the entrance of the hall. A smart-looking manservant came in carrying two baskets of flowers. Morning Lotus took the two baskets and handed them respectfully, one to his wife and one to his daughter. Big Red Pepper and Meydee stood up . First they turned and looked at the audience so that everyone would be sure to see them, and then slowly they mounted the steps to the plat­ form. Big Red Pepper's basket of flowers was given to Eastern Sun. Meydee's was given to Ita. Ita took his eyes from the ceiling and looked at Meydee and, still seated, shook hands with her. Then mother and daughter again stood so that the audience should see them. The applause was like thunder. When the clapping stopped they came down from the platform. Morning Lotus walked slowly up and down bowing deeply to everyone and introducing himself in a low voice, "Kuan the Morning Lotus, Kuan the Morning Lotus." The audience also applauded him. Lan the Eastern Sun announced that the meeting was open. "Mr. Ita." He bowed. "Mr. Kikuikei." He bowed. Lan the East­ ern Sun called the name of each in turn and to each he bowed. Then he faced the audience and twisting his green face he called in arrogant tones, "Authors all," but he did not bow. And then he stood silent as if he had forgotten his speech because he was so pleased with himself. His eyes rolled upward, and the audience, thinking he was putting on an act, began to clap. With trembling hands he searched in his pocket and brought forth a small piece of paper. He half-turned toward the left, his face toward Ita, and began to read . "We have this meeting today because w e must have a meeting." He said the word "must" very loudly and stretched his arm upward with great force. The audience again clapped. He waited with his mouth open for the applause to stop. Again he read, "We are writers. Naturally we belong to the same family as the great Japa­ nese masters of literature." This time the clapping lasted for two minutes. When the clapping stopped he put the piece of paper back into his pocket. "I have no more to say than what I have said. My words are the crystallization of language. There is no need to say more. I now ask the great literary master, Mr. Ita, to instruct us . Mr. Ita." Again he bowed deeply. Ita stood very straight by the side of the table with his belly protruding far forward. He looked at the ceiling and then he looked 2 90

at Meydee. Then he waved his hand impatiently to stop the ap­ plause and began to speak in Chinese. "Japan is an advanced country. Her science and her literature are both preeminent in Greater East Asia-are models for all. I am antiwar. The people of Great Japan are all antiwar and lovers of peace. Japan and Korea, Manchukuo and China, are all of the same culture, the same race. You should all follow the lead of Great Japan and take Great Japan as your model to build the new order of a peaceful Greater East Asia. Today is the beginning only of this cherished plan. We must all work hard for it." He looked again at Meydee and sat down. Lan the Eastern Sun bowed and asked Mr. Kikuikei to make a speech . Rey Shuan slipped out while they were clapping. When he got outside it was as though he did not know north, south, east, or west. He found an ancient cedar tree and sat down leaning against the trunk. He had never imagined that there could be such shamelessness, silliness, and mischief in the world. If he but had the courage he could with one bomb destroy all those shameless creatures in the hall. To destroy them would be not only vengeance but also to sweep away those who insulted the truth . The Japanese militarist only killed the Chinese people but Ita strangled to death truth and righteousness.

Chapter Fourteen IT\EEP WINTER. Old Man Chi again suffered. This year coal and ,I../ charcoal were even scarcer than the year before. What had been stored was a ll sold, and the coal from the mines had been taken away by the Japanese. They kept only ten or twelve per cent for Peiping. Old Man Chi was cold in the night and hated to get up in the morning. A dust storm blew the night through. At sunset the sky was already dense with dust, low and yellow. One after another the deep yellow dust clouds moved above sending down cold air. The murky yellow turned to black, a very dark and fearsome black. The high street lamps seemed low and the lights quivered. The dust clouds which had been floating now began to fly. From between earth and heaven came the sound as of hordes of hungry ghosts wailing and shrieking as they swept through the sky. The branches of the trees began to move. The faraway rumble of the carts and the cries of the hawkers would suddenly be heard and suddenly disappear. The wind coming from above, from the side, from below, 291

gave voice like herds of swine about to be slaughtered, and carried yellow dust and the black soil, chicken feathers and tom paper sweeping through the air and across the ground. Lamps went out. Windows blew open. The walls shivered. The water in the basins was covered immediately with ice. Peiping seemed to have lost its strong and thick city wall and to have been merged with the Gobi de5ert. There was nothing in the whole world but the mad dance of the flying dust, and the cold air. The tram cars had long ago stopped running. The rickshaw boys had returned home hungry. The shops were all closed and no one walked on the streets. Peiping was an isolated island in the sea of wind, silent and dark. Old Man Chi had gone to bed very early. He did not seem to be lying in bed but to be floating in mid-air. Each new onslaught of the wind made him forget where he was, and he could not dis­ tinguish whether he was awake_ or asleep, whether he was dreaming or whether it was reality. At last the old man heard a cock crow. The crow of the cock was like a signal. He knew that the wind would soon stop and the day break. He put his hand to his brow and felt that he touched a piece of ice. Boldly he straightened his two aching old legs and quickly doubled them back again. The lower part of the bedding was like an icebox. The room was even colder. It was as though he were lying inside a very thin tent on the edge of the desert and were separated from the ice and frost by a single cloth . Gradually light began to show through the paper windows. He yawned. He did not want to lie longer in bed. Forcing himself, he sat up. When he went out the door of his room, the old man felt that the courtyard was larger than usual. The earth was grey-white with tiny cracks in many places. The sky was high and light blue. There was a cleanness in the sky, the earth, and all between that made him feel as though he had on no clothes . The old man went to look for his broom but did not like to take his hands from his sleeves . He looked at the ground and saw that the wind had swept it clean. With his hands folded in his sleeves he went to the front gate. There was no one under the locust trees and there was no movement. The old locust trees had shed many dry branches . The old man forgot the cold and stretched his hands out of the sleeves to pick up the broken branches, and with an armful he started back home. As he went up the steps he stopped and stood still. The two brass knockers under the heads of the gate gods were gone. The old man grunted, "Ung!" This house he had bought himself, and he knew the history of 292

every part of it and of every change made in the compound. He knew that originally there had been a pair of iron knockers, like a pair of breasts, with iron rings for knocking. They had rusted, so when the preparations were made for Rey Shuan's wedding he had changed to a pair of brass knockers. To hang a pair of shining new knockers on the gate was like giving a woman a new ornament. He had been fond of this pair of knockers and had never allowed them to tarnish. To come home and see the yellowish light on them always made him happy. And now these bright objects on the gates had disappeared as though blown away by the storm. Only two round marks were left and the holes for the nails . He went to Number Six and saw that their knockers were gone also. He forgot the cold and quickly went the rounds of the Little Sheep Fold. He could not see a single one; all the knockers were gone. "What demon's work is this?" The old man stroked his beard with hands red from the cold. He went home quickly to tell Rey Shuan. Rey Shuan dressed as he listened to his grandfather. He had not caught all the old man said and went with him out of the gate while still half-asleep. When he saw the marks of the knockers on the gates he understood what the old man had said. "What's happened?" the old man asked. "The wind was strong in the night, and even if they had carried away our gates we would not have known. Come in, grandfather, it's cold out here." Rey Shuan carried the bundle of branches in for his grandfather. "Who did it? What daring! What does a pair of knockers cost?" the old man muttered as he walked into the courtyard. "Copper and iron are both worth a lot of money, and they are fighting." Rey Shuan took the broken branches to the kitchen. The loss of the door knockers made Rey Shuan feel cold, colder even than the day made him feel. There was no need to tell his grandfather but he had heard from Mr. Goodrich the reliable report that the Japanese Military Command had already appointed many Japanese economists to make a special study of the wartime economy; in other words, to study how to rob North China of its resources. That institution was in the buildings of Tsing Hua Col­ lege from which the students had all gone west. The Japanese had occupied many cities and areas of North China but had not made money. The Japanese could sell their own goods in the occupied areas, but the war had affected the productive power of Japan; and besides, the goods brought to China could be 29 3

exchanged only for the worthless money they themselves issued. They had, therefore, to begin to rob and steal. They must seize grain and coal, copper and iron, anything they could lay their hands on. Even so it was doubtful if they could make the war support the war. There were no large industries in North China nor could they get enough people with technical knowledge nor workmen with the skills . They were victorious in fighting but they had made no money. The war lords began to remember the economists and told them to think of ways to turn stones into gold. To steal the iron and brass door knockers during the night of the big wind, Rey Shuan thought, was probably the first gun fired by the Japanese economists . If Rey Shuan had thought this way in the past he would have considered himself silly, and now he was really thinking seriously and found nothing amusing about this conclusion. He knew that among the Japanese there were indeed many scholars of the science of economics, but war was the de­ struction of all branches of learning. Setting off guns was the foolish pastime of shooting gold into the ocean. No one could at the same time throw money into the ocean and have it too. The Japanese would now, Rey Shuan thought, most probably use the most petty and detailed methods to rob. In their ruth­ lessness they would scrape the top soil of North China and starve the people to death by thousands and tens of thousands. And there were the traitors willing with their whole hearts to act as ghosts of slain tigers to lure others to the tigers . At this moment the children woke and loudly urged their mother to cook their porridge. Mrs . Tien Yiu and Old Man Chi, a word here and an answer there, talked with the children. As he listened to the voices of the old and the young, Rey Shuan felt as if a poisoned thorn had been stuck into his heart. At about eight o'clock the heavens again turned yellow and the branches of the trees again began to sway. "The wind is not over," Old Man Chi sighed. Just as the old man spoke they heard two reports from outside, very loud and very near. "Yo, what has happened now?" the old man asked. "Sounds as if it was in the Back Big Court." Yun Mei's eyes were wide open. By the Back Big Court she meant the belly of the gourd. Rey Shuan ran outside the gate. There was no one at the gate of Number Three. At the gate of Number One stood the old Japanese woman. She bowed to Rey Shuan. Rey Shuan had never greeted anyone from house Number One but today in his haste he 2 94

returned her bow. Cheng Chang Shun was standing outside Num­ ber Four. When he saw Rey Shuan, Chang Shun said anxiously, "What's happened?" "I don't know." Rey Shuan walked north . Little Wen, his clasped hands in his sleeves, a half cigarette hanging from his lips, stood unconcernedly outside Number Six. "Sounds like pistol shots. Might be firecrackers ." Rey Shuan nodded but said nothing and continued walking north. He both envied and disliked Little Wen's nonchalance. Outside Number Seven stood a number of people, some talking and · some looking toward the north . Sergeant Pai, his face pale as a ghost, came running from the north. "All of you, get inside quickly. Before long I am sure they will search every house. Don't get excited. Don't neglect caution . Quickly go inside." When he had finished speaking he turned back. "What's happened?" all asked with one voice. Sergeant Pai turned his head. "Something has happened in the Niu family." When he had said this he ran quickly away. After about a quarter of an hour the Little Sheep Fold was surrounded by soldiers and policemen, and two gendarmes stood under the two old locust trees and did not allow anyone to leave their houses. Then a crowd of people came into the Chi compound-police­ men, gendarmes, plain-clothes men, and some armed Japanese. Because the ground was frozen the sound of their feet stamping was more terrifying than usual. Two of the men stood in the courtyard on guard, and the rest scattered to the different rooms to search . They paid especial attention to Rey Shuan. His age, his ap­ pearance, his manner were suspicious in the eyes of the Japanese. They opened every drawer in his room-all his trunks and boxes­ and examined very carefully everything inside. They even turned the boxes upside down and poured the things out. Rey Shuan stood in the corner and watched them calmly. Finally one of the Japanese saw a large Manchu map on the wall and nodded to Rey Shuan. "Great Manchu dynasty, big, big, good." The Japa­ nese picked up a hair ornament of washed gold, engraved with a flower pattern, which Yun Mei had forgotten, and put it in his pocket. He looked again at the map made during the Manchu dynasty and walked out. After they had gone everyone was busy putting things away again. 29 5 ·

At about four in the afternoon the yellow wind again started shouting angrily and the people of the Little Sheep Fold began to go in and out freely. Everyone talked of the events in the Niu household . Professor Niu had been hurt and carried to the hospital. Pro­ fessor Niu had never had any dealings with his neighbors so what people knew of his affairs was mostly guesswork. According to Sun the Seventh the Japanese wanted Professor Niu to be a traitor and Professor Niu was not willing so they shot him twice. One shot had missed and one had hit the professor in the left shoulder. There was no danger to his life. Sun the Seventh was rather re­ spectful toward Professor Niu because he had once shaved him. Cheng Chang Shun's point of view was different from that of Sun the Seventh . He said that Professor Niu was planning to be­ come a puppet but was shot by "our people." The wind was strong and cold but Rey Shuan could not stay in his room . He put his hands in his sleeves and with head bent and with brows knit he walked back and forth in the courtyard . The yellow dust slowly accumulated on his hair and eyebrows and he did not feel like wiping it away. He saw a rope looped around his neck and the necks of the whole family, and he saw it being drawn tighter and tighter. The shooting of Professor Niu made him imagine the Japanese raping the men of character and integrity, one by one.

Chapter Fifteen v EFORE PROFESSOR NIU LEFT the hospital the City Government fl' had already announced his appointment as Commissioner of Education. The newspapers published interviews in which he said that for the purpose of establishing friendly relations between China and Japan he was willing to shoulder the responsibilities of the educational work of Peiping and that he would take office as soon as he was well enough. There was a picture of Professor Niu beside the interview. Rey Shuan looked at the picture in the newspaper and like a man distraught he asked the picture, "How can you be a traitor?" He knew that for Professor Niu to become a puppet would have great influence, and his action would make it possible for the Japa­ nese to spread their propaganda widely beca,use Professor Niu had world-wide fame. What he had done would enable those who wanted to become traitors to say, "Even Professor Niu has done that, who are we-"

As he had expected, Mr. and Mrs. Kuan and Meydee took ex­ pensive flowers to comfort the Professor. "We are going to see Professor Niu," said Morning Lotus smoothing the fur of his sealskin collar. "Not so bad. Our Little Sheep Fold is a piece of treasure land . Now we have a commis­ sioner. I say, Rey Shuan, your second brother is a section head in the Commission of Education. You should go to see the new com­ missioner and make friends." Rey Shuan said nothing. Bit by bit he had made inquiries and understood. Professor Niu had really been shot by "our people." It was said that Professor Niu had not had the intention of becoming a collaborator but that when the Japanese forced him he had not refused. He was a scientist and had never paid attention to politics. Whether others were cold or warm or hungry had never concerned him and he had never been willing to come into contact with people. He was always thinking of scientific problems, observing objectively and drawing conclusions. He would not let the confusions of human society interrupt him. The Japanese wanted to build up a new group of puppets to at­ tract the people and as a threat to the older puppets . The quali­ fications for the new traitors was that they should have had high positions either in the social or the academic world . , Professor Niu had been shot in the shoulder. He was frightened and because of his fear he wanted someone to protect him . He did not understand why he was shot, nor did he understand why the young assassin should have wanted to shoot him. The Japanese promised to protect him. He began to feel that he and his family were secure. He agreed to be the Commissioner of Education. From the time of Rey Shuan's arrest Rey Feng had not been back, but suddenly he came home because his position was no longer secure and he had come for his brother's help. His little dry face was not as bright as usual. When he came in he called in a loud voice, "Grandfather, Father, Mother, Brother, and Sister-in­ law," showing off how well he knew the correct ceremonial. He even patted the little black heads of the children. Then he took his brother to one side and said, "Eldest Brother, you must help me. They are going to change commissioners . My position will, perhaps, blow up. You know-" Rey Shuan interrupted, "I do not know Professor Niu." The Second knitted his brows. "Indirectly-" "I will not go out of my way to seek favors from traitors ." Rey Shuan's voice was low but each word carried the fire of anger. 2 97

The Second took the imitation ivory cigarette holder out of his mouth and tapped it lightly against his hand. "Eldest Brother, I am really sorry about that affair but I have my difficulties. You do not hold anger against me?" "What affair?" Rey Shuan asked. "That time, that time-" The Second moistened his lips. "That time when you were in trouble." "I do not hold anger against you. What is there to say about things that have passed?" "Eldest Brother, no matter what you think, you must help me. In times like these it is not easy to find a position . I tell you, Eldest Brother, I have been so worried these last few days that I could not eat." Rey Shuan said gently but with passion, "Listen to me. If you really lose your job, it would not be an altogether bad thing. You have only your wife, no children . Why don't you go away and work for our real government?" The Second laughed dryly. "I? Escape?" "Why not? Look at Old Three." "Old Three-who knows whether he is dead or alive? I'm not so foolish as to go somewhere else when I have a good job here." Rey Shuan shut his mouth. The Second changed from pleading to threats . "Eldest Brother, I will tell you the truth. If I should be so unfortunate as to lose my job you would have to support me. Are you not the eldest?" Rey Shuan smiled. There was nothing he wished to say. The Second then went whispering to his mother and sister-in­ law. He told them, "It isn't that the Eldest doesn't know people, he's just waiting to see me become a laughingstock. Well, if he will not take any responsibility to help me and if I should be dropped, I will eat off him all my life. For a younger brother to eat off his elder brother is a logic that can be stated anywhere." Completely vindicated, with his imitation ivory cigarette holder in his mouth, he went away. The two women pressured Rey Shuan . Rey Shuan explained the whole matter to them from beginning to end and when they under­ stood they felt that Rey Shuan should hate Professor Niu and should not help the Second in this affair. But still they were wor­ ried. "What if the Second should really come home and eat you out of house and home?'' Rey Shuan smiled. "Na, wait and see. When the time comes we will meet it." He knew that it would be a serious problem if the Second came home to live on what he made, but whatever hap298

pened he could not go to a traitor to ask a favor. If unfortunately the Second should really lose his job Rey Shuan still , had a passive way to manage : he could give half of his food to his brother and tighten his own belt. This was not the best solution but at least it could keep him from surrender. He felt that living in an occupied city the least he could do was not to surrender personally. If he could not take positive action he could at least retain his own integrity. Before the week was out Rey Feng came home. Professor Niu was still in the hospital but the new vice-commissioner had taken over office for him. Rey Feng had been very busy for four or five ·days handing over everything and was fired. Professor Niu had not many friends so he had not wanted to change the personnel in the office of the Commission. Even if he could not keep his position as Section Head Rey Feng might have remained as one of the office staff except that his relationship with his co-workers was so bad that as one man they took the opportunity of the change in commissioner to attack him. Rey Feng had forgotten, when suddenly appointed Section Head, that the earth was big and the sky was high. He had never been an official but he thought that he should take on the full airs of an official and his airs were not in harmony with the drums of the times. He was obsequious to his superiors but never at the right . time. This made the others in the office dislike him, and those from whom he tried to curry favor feel uncomfortable. When purchases were needed he always went himself and gave no one else an opportunity to get commissions. He was often in­ vited out to meals by the shop people or to the opera. The next day he would announce to his colleagues, "The opera last night was good. I went with Manager Liu. That fat fellow is rather amusing." Or he would say, "The food in the Shensi restaurant is not bad. I was taken by that Shensi man Fan. This is the first time I have tasted Shensi food." Rey Feng was especially attentive to the girls in his office. He thought that his little dry face, and his heavily pomaded hair, and his clothes and shoes and hats had surely great power of attraction. He needed only, he felt, to show the tiniest bit of desire for intimacy and any woman would take him for a lover. He often gave them as presents the things he had got free from the shops, and often told them he would like to take them to dinner or to the cinema. He even boldly set time and place with them but when the time came and they went they would not even see his shadow. The next day when they met he would apologize three or four 2 99

times by saying that his mother had suddenly been taken ill, or that the Commissioner had given him some important work to do, and so he had been unable to keep his word. He would shamelessly tell his male colleagues, "If you have a wife at home, it is better not to look at these 'vases of flowers .' It would be troublesome if anything should happen ." He felt that he was quite a man of the world . Fat Chrysanthemum stayed at her own home and drove Rey Feng out. Her last command to him was, "When you have found an official position come back. If you can't find one don't come back again. I am Madame Section Head. I will not be the wife of bare stick Chi Rey Feng."

Chapter Sixteen

EACH BLossoM's PLAN was now useless . She had made it for PMeydee's wedding day when she should have been able to

catch them all in one net-the Kuan family, the traitors who were celebrating with them, and the Japanese. She had seen Mr. Chien often and had, each time she met him, become more determined. She knew that the older she got the less chance she had of marrying again should she succeed in getting away from the Kuan household, and that as long as she stayed with them there was danger in Big Red Pepper's constant talk of sending her to a brothel . If only Kaodee had had the courage she would have liked to run away with her, but Kaodee did not have the courage. So Peach Blossom wanted to use death to end every­ thing. She was unwilling, however, to die for nothing. She must have Big Red Pepper, and the traitors, and, still better, a few Japanese to die with her. When she had made her decision she talked no more heart-to­ heart with Kaodee for fear of revealing her secret; nor did she fight any more with Big Red Pepper but patiently accepted her curses and insults . She must wait for a suitable time to carry out her plan . Barren Hill had been dismissed, for those who had assassinated the Japanese special envoys and those who had attacked Professor Niu had all escaped. The Japanese had on the one hand executed Little Tsui and the other suspects, and on the other hand had dismissed Barren Hill from the position of Section Head of the Secret Police. He was not only dismissed, his property was also confiscated. When he was Section Head the Japanese had encour­ aged him to squeeze. When he was dismissed the Japanese took 3 00

away his property. In this way the Japanese got all the money and at the same time punished the corruption. Morning Lotus knit his brows when he heard the news. He could see no way to break the engagement but at the same time he did not want his daughter to marry a "bald egg" without position and without money. Big Red Pepper was more daring and decided immediately to break the engagement. Meydee agreed with her mother. What had happene� between her and Barren HiII had been for amusement, and this accom­ plished she was not very keen to marry him. If, however, Barren HiII insisted on marrying her she felt she might as well spend a few days as the wife of a Section Head. Now that Barren HiII was no longer Section Head she thought this an opportunity to free herself. Barren HiII and Section Head were equal to Section Head : Barren HiII minus Section Head equaled nothing. She could not marry a zero. So she told her mother, "Barren HiII has now become a real barren hill. I will not go to him." "My precious treasure, you have real understanding," Big Red Pepper said happily. But Barren Hill was not easy to deal with, and although he had lost his position and his property, his manner was still officious . He had built up his own empire with bare hands. He was like a little emperor when he had an official position, and when he lost his empire, he was again only barehanded. He would never be dis­ couraged and never regret his mistakes . His courage was based on experience and history. He knew that the people, tame as sheep, with no political rights, with no voice, did not know how to resist oppression. Since they were at his feet, they allowed him to put his feet on their necks. Wearing his mink-skin hat and his overcoat with the sealskin collar, he came to the Kuans to call on his "relatives." He brought his bodyguard loaded with seven or eight presents. The shop labels on the boxes and wrappings were those of the most expensive shops in Peiping. Morning Lotus, seeing Barren Hill's clothes and hat, the names on the parcels, and the bodyguard who was carrying a gun, did not know what to do. He was afraid of that gun. Barren HiII took off his overcoat and threw himself on the sofa as if he were very tired. The servant brought a hot towel and Barren Hill covered his face with it. Before he took it off, he blew his nose . on it. Half-smiling, he said, "His mother's --! I've lost 3 01

my job. All right, it is just as well. Now I have time to get mar­ ried. Set the day, Old Father-in-law." "Who are you thinking of marrying?" Big Red Pepper asked with great composure. "Who?" Barren Hill sat up straight. "Meydee, of course. Is there anything the matter with that?" , "Yes, there's a mistake." Big Red Pepper smiled challengingly. " I tell you, Barren Hill, you seduced my daughter and I have not yet punished you. To marry her-never! So-get out!" Morning Lotus turned pale and drifted toward the door of the room so as to run out if it became necessary. But Barren Hill did not become angry. Rogues have their own rogues' self-control. He winked to his bodyguard who came over and stood beside him. Big Red Pepper laughed coldly. "Barren Hill, I'm afraid of everything but I am not afraid of guns . You are no longer Section Head of the Secret Police, I don't think you dare arrest anyone now. " "I can still gather a few guns without much trouble, and a dead horse is still bigger than a dog," Barren Hill said with great deli­ beration. "If you want to fight I can also get together ten or fifteen people, and if we should start fighting I'm not at all sure whose head would go down first. Of course I'm not in the habit of fighting and per­ haps you would like to settle it peacefully." "It's better to settle it peacefully," Morning Lotus hastened to say. Big Red Pepper glared at Morning Lotus and then said to Barren Hill, "Although I'm a woman, in the management of affairs I like to be decisive and quick. I will not allow you to talk of mar­ riage. Take these presents away. I will give you two hundred dollars. A clean cut of the knife has separated us and neither can molest the other. If you want to come and see us, we can still be friends. Hot tea and good cigarettes you will not lack. If you don't want to come again I will not send out illvitation cards begging you to come. What about it? An answer in one word." "Only two hundred dollars? Is that all a wife is worth?" Barren Hill smiled and shrugged his shoulders. He was in need of money. · on his mental abacus he counted in this way : to have had his pleasure with a virgin and without payment and to get some money into the bargain was not bad business . What was more, he had always been a bully but today he had met a person who was not afraid of him. He must avoid the crash of the hard meeting hard. 3 02

"I'll add a hundred." Big Red Pepper slammed down three hun­ dred dollars. "If it is a bargain, take it and go. If it's not a bargain, let's drop it." Barren Hill laughed loudly. "You are a person of parts, Old Mother-in-law." Having gained the advantage over Big Red Pep­ per in this way he thought he should leave the stage as quickly as possible, and when he again had an official position he would most assuredly come back and settle accounts with the Kuan family. He put on his overcoat, gathered up the money from the table and carelessly put it into his girdle, and at the same time the body­ guard took up the parcels. Master and servant swaggered out. "Director," Morning Lotus said lovingly, "you are really won­ derful." Meydee, her overcoat hanging from her red-sweatered shoulders, came running into the room . Blowing with her lips she danced a few steps. "Oh, it's cold." "Naughty child, you'll catch cold." Big Red Pepper pretended to be angry. "Put your arms into your sleeves." Meydee put her coat on properly and with her hands in her pockets came closer to her mother. "Has he gone?" "Do you think he was planning to die here? Of course he has gone." "He won't say any more about that matter?" "If he dares I'll tell him to roll." "This is very amusing." "Amusing? I tell you, my young lady, you should find some proper work to do. Always kissing the cat and playing with the dog you'll give me more trouble." "That's right, that's right." Morning Lotus with his face stiff acted the father instructing his daughter. "You are not a child, you ought-you ought-" He could not think what his daughter should do. "Mother"-Meydee became serious also-"there are two things I can do. One is short-term and the other long-term. The short-term one is to practice my skating." "That-" Morning Lotus was afraid that skating was dangerous. "Don't interrupt, listen to he< Big Red Pepper stopped her husband and took back the conversation. "I've heard there's to be a skating carnival in the North Sea Park at New Year's. Mother, I'm telling you but you must not tell any­ one else. I and Mary Ko and Cherry Blossom Chu want to go dressed to represent Japan, China, and Manchukuo co-operating. You'll see-we'll be applauded." 303

"This is a very good plan." Big Red Pepper smiled . She thought that this not only gave her daughter a "proper" thing to do but would also make her so famous that she would be material for the newspapers and possibly as cover girl for the magazines. And if that should happen, Meydee would get the attention of the rich and of the Japanese. "I will certainly give a very big, big silver cup, my silver cup for you to bring home. We'll see that we have the advantage." "That's a very good idea ." Morning Lotus praised his wife. "And the long-range plan is like this. When the skating is over I will learn several operas." Meydee said this seriously. "Mother, you see the other girls all know several operas. I have a voice, why should I not learn some also? If I should be successful, I could go to Tientsin, Shanghai, Dairen, and Japan. Don't you see?" "I approve of this plan," Morning Lotus said. "I see that it is not possible to be successful except to wear the big red and purple of the official or to go on the stage. If only you are willing to work hard I guarantee that you will be successful." "Yes," Meydee said with elation and enthusiasm. "If I am suc­ cessful, Father, you will set up a company for me. How much better than to be idle all the time !" "Exactly, exactly." Morning Lotus nodded several times. "From whom will you learn?" Big Red Pepper asked . "Aren't the Little Wen couple at hand? Everyone knows Little Wen's fiddle. Little Mrs. Wen is a famous amateur actress. I can go to them quite easily. Mother, listen." Meydee faced the wall, threw her head back slightly, coughed gently once, and began to sing. "Not at all bad, not at all bad. I'm sure it will do." Morning Lotus praised her warmly. "Mother, what do you think?" As if her father's opinion did not count Meydee turned and asked her mother. "Not bad." Big Red Pepper could not sing, nor did she know when others were singing whether it was good or bad, but she had to appear to know. Peach Blossom was very much disappointed. She had planned to poison Big Red Pepper and the others on Meydee's wedding day and then to commit suicide. Mr. Chien's words turned constantly in her heart and she determined to wait for another opportunity. While waiting she had to bend her knee to Big Red Pepper to keep from being sent to the brothel . She could not, of course, try to influence Big Red Pepper directly but decided to come closer to Meydee as she knew that Meydee had the power to turn Big 3 04

Red Pepper to the right or to the left. So Peach Blossom went with Meydee when she skated and served Meydee in many small ways to make her comfortable. Gradually these tactics achieved the desired results. Meydee did not plead for her before her mother, but when Big Red Pepper showed her temper, she would think of ways to keep the anger from striking directly on Peach Blossom's head. Thus Peach Blossom settled herself quietly to wait for the opportunity. Dr. Kao, seeing that Barren Hill had been defeated, quickly turned a somersault and again began to curry favor with all his might from Big Red Pepper. If Barren Hill's name was but men­ tioned he would curse bitterly as if there had been a family feud for many generations. Morning Lotus had some insight and saw that Dr. Kao was a two-faced traitor, turning the rudder according to the wind; but Big Red Pepper still trusted him and was fond of him. Although determined and ruthless, she was after all a woman and sometimes needed to express her motherly love. She loved Meydee and Dr. Kao, and loved them blindly. Dr. Kao not only belittled Barren Hill; he also gave bad advice to Big Red Pepper. He hinted that both Barren Hill and Rey Feng had lost their positions through their own fault, but that there was yet an element of "to keep company with the ruler is to keep company with a tiger." The Japanese, he suggested, are a small­ minded people not easy to serve. He thought that Big Red Pepper should therefore squeeze more tightly, and quickly get more money to be prepared for the worst. Big Red Pepper felt that this was really royal advice and decided at once to increase the amount of money each prostitute should give her. Dr. Kao also knew that few businesses could make money at that time in Peiping, and that if one wanted to make money the best way was to buy houses. Big Red Pepper accepted this plan also and decided to buy house Number One. If the owner of the house should be unwilling to sell she would force him in the name of the Japanese. Dr. Kao then took up a matter that had to do with himself. He wanted to open a handsome hotel with Big Red Pepper's capi­ tal, and be the manager. In this hotel the guests would play mah­ jongg and gamble and have women. Since Big Red Pepper con­ trolled both the regular prostitutes and the "dark doors" and Dr. Kao was the agent between Big Red Pepper and the prostitutes, the two of them could supply the most suitable girls for their guests. In that hotel the guests would also smoke opium. Opium, 305

gambling and girls-if aII three were there Dr. Kao was sure that the business would be very good indeed. He wanted only to be the manager and have a salary. He would not share the profits with Big Red Pepper. He had only one smaII favor to ask : that he be aIIowed to treat the guests for venereal diseases and seII them medicine. From this income he asked Big Red Pepper to take no percentage. Big Red Pepper became very much interested in the project. It was more colorful than any other enterpris e. Dr. Kao had not had the slightest experience in managing a hotel. But if the hotel should fail it would be only Big Red Pepper's money that was lost; his own business of healing the sick and seIIing medicine would have already made a name. Big Red Pepper was not a person to tolerate soot in her eyes, she was not one to use doIIars as skipping stones; but now she reaIIy had money and money had made her ambitious. The strength of the money pushed her as the steam in a cooking basin pushes up its cover. She had to beat the drums and clang the gongs and do something big. Hum! Opium, gambling, prostitutes, and dancing, aII together in one place-would that not be a new world? The country had already changed dynasty, she would give something new to the people. And, besides, this new thing was just what the Japanese and the Chinese would most like to have. She decided to establish the hotel. There was nothing for Morning Lotus to do in making the preparations for the hotel, but he was unwiIIing to be a mere bystander. When he was not busy, he would take a piece of paper and draw or write. Sometimes he would draw diagrams to show how the furniture should be place d in the rooms. Sometimes he would write out names for each of the rooms . Smilingly he would say to aII, "You run around, but if you want to see brains in use you must come here." In addition to this activity he planned the make-up for Meydee and the other girls to use at the carnival. He told them that on that day they must put cream on their faces, shadow under their eyes, and that their cheeks should be a briIIiant red like those of actors on the stage. "You wiII be in the middle of the lake, and the people watching you wiII be on the banks, so you must paint your eyebrows, and your eyes, and your faces, heavily." They agreed to this and caIIed him an old fox. He was very pleased. He also planned their costumes. Meydee was to represent China and to wear a golden yeIIow silk gown embroidered with green 3 06

plum blossoms. Mary Ko was to represent Manchukuo and wear the long ceremonial gown of a noblewoman of the Manchu dynasty, and the rank denoting mandarin square was to be an embroidered map of Manchuria. Cherry Blossom Chu was to represent Japan and to wear a kimono embroidered with cherry blossoms. The girls should not wear hats, but one with a braid of hair, one with a high Manchu headdress, and the other with the Japanese pompa­ dour would show clearly which was China, Manchukuo, and Japan . The skating contest of the carnival was to be held at one· o'clock in the afternoon of the fifth day of the First Moon, at the North Sea Park. By twelve o'clock the park was already crowded with people. The sky was very high and very clear and seemed everywhere to be dropping tiny golden stars. This brightness made the marble balustrades still whiter, the yellow-and-green glazed tiles and the colors of the buildings stand out more clearly, like a colored paint­ ing that has just been finished. The golden top of the White Dagoba shone with a bright light as if to take the entire beauty of the park to the skies. Those joining in the contest were many. Nine out of ten were young boys and girls. There were only a few older people, those who had skated before the emperor in the Manchu dynasty. Two of the Five Dragon Pavilions were used as dressing rooms for the contestants and one was the headquarters. No one knew how it happened that Big Red Pepper became the commandant of the girls' dressing room. She shouted angrily to this one and gave a lecture to that, and constantly encouraged Meydee, Mary Ko, and Cherry Blossom Chu. It was already noisy enough inside the room and with the addition of Big Red Pepper's shouts the pavilion seemed to be crowded with hungry female leopards . The Japanese did not like this kind of confusion and disorder. When ·they wanted order they could get it with whips and bayo­ nets. When they wanted to loosen their grip and let people enjoy themselves they could smile coldly as if at a flock of lambs jump­ ing and playing, and not interfere. They were the cats and the Chinese mice. After having seized the mice they could loosen their grip and let the mice play again. All were assembled. The men on the left and the women on the right paraded on the ice in two columns . In the girls' column, thanks to the tactics of Big Red Pepper, Meydee's group was in the lead. The girls behind all began to mutter. In the other column there was strife; the older men looked down on the boys and the 3 07

students looked down on the older men. So they purposely and mutually knocked each other around and several fell down. After the parade they separated into groups for exhibition skat­ ing. The few older skaters who had performed before the emperor showed real skill . The rest could only skate here and there and do nothing of interest. Meydee's group of three young ladies wobbled hand in hand several times around the rink, almost falling down, and after a few minutes went off the ice. But Meydee's group got the first prize. The three young ladies were given the big silver cup that Big Red Pepper had donated . The skilled old ones received not a single prize. The judges fol­ lowed the Japanese notion and selected only those whose costumes showed some special idea. The first prize, therefore, went to the "Co-operation Between Japan, China, and Manchukuo." The sec­ ond prize went to the "Goddess of Peace" -a girl dressed in white, carrying high a rising sun flag. The third prize went to the Great Imperial Army. As for skill in skating, the judges knew that the Japanese did not like the Chinese to take exercise and strengthen their bodies, so had paid no attention to that at all. Morning Lotus, Big Red Pepper, and the three young ladies, in high spirits, had their picture taken with the cup. Then, with Meydee carrying the cup in her arms, they made the rounds of the park. Morning Lotus carried their skates . As they approached the Hall of the Beautiful Ripples they saw Rey Feng and turned their heads pretending not to see him. A few steps further along they met Lan the Eastern Sun and Fat Chrysanthemum . On Eastern Sun's breast was pinned a piece of red silk which showed that he was one of the judges . He and Fat Chrysanthemum were walking hand in hand. Morning Lotus and Big Red Pepper exchanged glances and quickly went forward to meet them. Morning Lotus, the skates dangling from his two hands, made a high ceremonious greeting. "What is there to say to this except to drink your wedding wine?" Eastern Sun twisted his face and showed his yellow teeth. Fat Chrysanthemum, composed, smiled a little. Big Red Pepper purposely tightened her face to jest with them. "Oh, you are real friends ! Even me you have told nothing about this. You must be penalized. The fine will be to give these three prize-winning young ladies each a cup of Lipton's tea and two little cakes apiece. Do you agree?" But she did not wait for them to speak before she changed her mind. She knew the stinginess of Eastern Sun. "That was just a joke. I will treat you. This tea house 3 08

right here will do. The three young ladies are tired and should not walk any further." They all entered the Hall of the Beautiful Ripples.

Chapter Seventeen 11EY FENG drank two ounces of wine and went home with red /\, eyes. When he got home he told the family about the affair of Fat Chrysanthemum and announced loudly that he would not be a "turtle." He wanted to take the chopping knife from the kitchen and challenge Eastern Sun to fight to the death . From his sister­ in-law he demanded good cigarettes, good tea, and some supper. He was a man suffering from injustice, so he felt that his sister-in-law should sympathize with him and treat him extra well. Old Man Chi was moved. He wondered what was to be done if Fat Chrysanthemum really did not come back home, and Rey Feng lost both job and wife. The Chi family, moreover, was a "pure" family-one that had had no scandals . If their daughter­ in-law ran away with another man, how could the family face other people? He did not think of why Rey Feng had lost his wife nor did he realize that it was the kind of thing that had to happen when the Japanese were there. He felt only that this was the fault of Fat Chrysanthemum, that she had no sense of shame, and that she wanted to ruin the good name of the Chi family, that she wanted to destroy the four generations in one house. "It won't do." The old man brushed his beard with his hand twice and with anger. "It won't do. She was brought a bride to this house. As long as she lives she is a member of the Chi family. Dead, she is a Chi family ghost. Go and find her. Tell her that perhaps you can talk in other ways but the grandfather will not accept this affair. Tell her that the grandfather orders her to return at once. If she dares to say no, I will break her legs . Go, don't be afraid. You have a grandfather. I will be responsible." The more the old man spoke the angrier he got. Although in dealing with the invaders he could do nothing but place broken storage jars against the gate, in dealing with disturbances inside the family he believed deeply in his own power to control the situation. Rey Feng did not sleep well that night. The scene in the North Sea Park was like a cinema moving constantly before his eyes­ Chrysanthemum and Eastern Sun, hand in hand, walking along outside the Hall of the Beautiful Ripples. He could not endure it. He lay all night, his wrongs passing through his mind until the 3 09

cock crowed and he went to sleep. When he opened his eyes he thought immediately of Fat Chrysanthemum. He decided to settle the matter with peaceful means. He parted his hair carefully and put on his best clothes. As he dressed he thought, "With my ap­ pearance and clothes I will surely defeat Eastern Sun." He found Fat Chrysanthemum. He pretended not to know about her relations with Eastern Sun and said only that he had come to see her. He wanted to invite her home, if she was willing, because his grandfather and his mother were anxious to see her. He thought to cheat her thus into going home. The people at home were many and once she was there they could certainly keep her. Quite likely the grandfather would lock the gate and not allow her to go out again. Fat Chrysanthemum was more straightforward. She produced a document and told him to sign. Divorce. Rey Feng's little face turned white as a sheet of paper. Divorce­ well-it was really time for the chopping knife, but he knew that he dar�d not pick up the knife. Fat Chrysanthemum spoke again. "Be quick. It will be the same whatever you do. Why cheapen yourself further? Divorce will make it regular and all our faces will be saved. Even if you are not willing to sign, I will still go with him. Wouldn't that make you more-" "Would you, would you-" Rey Feng's lips trembled. "Would you forget our love as husband and wife?" "I'll do whatever I want to do. I will not listen to anyone else. When we were together did you dare to go west when I wanted · to go east?" "No-but not this." " If you won't sign, what will you do?" Rey Feng had no answer. Finally he said, "Even if I should agree there are others in the family." "You did not consult them when we were married. They cannot control our affairs." "Give me two days Cl:nd let me think it over, will you?" · "Even if you never agree it does not matter. Eastern Sun has power and you dare not offend him. If you should offend him he will ask the Japanese to deal with you." Rey Feng was angry but dared not show it. He dared not offend Eastern Sun, nor the Japanese. With tears in his eyes he walked out. "You will not sign?" Fat Chrysanthemum followed him. "Never," Rey Feng answered with great courage. "Good. I will marry him tomorrow and see what you will do." 310 ·

Rey Feng rushed home and went immediately to his grand­ father's room. Puffing he said, "Ifs finished, it's finished." Then holding his little face in both hands he sat on the edge of the brick bed. "What happened, Old Second?" Old Man Chi asked. "Finished, she wanted a divorce." "What?" "Divorce." The term divorce had already been in use for many years but had never become at home in the old man's mouth. "She said this? Thafs strange. From ancient times there has been the casting away of wives but never the casting away of husbands . This is complete nonsense." The old man had not been as surprised and unhappy since the Japanese entered the city. "What did you say?" "I?" Rey Feng took his hands from his face. "She would not listen to anything I said. I said good things and I said bad things, but she would not listen." "Could you not drag her back and let me manage her? You have always been a fool." The more the old man talked the angrier he became; his voice became louder and louder. "From the very be­ ginning I did not like that match. You did not have a fortune­ teller examine the eight characters-the two for the hour, the two for the day, the two for the month, and the two for the year of her birth and yours-to see if they harmonized-nor did you ask the elders of the family to meet her. And now see-have troubles come? 'If you don't heed what the old people say, Troubles are surely on the way.' " When Rey Shuan came home in the evening he was surrounded by the family as soon as he entered the courtyard. He really did not want to have to deal with matters like this for his mind was full of other things. In · the British Embassy he saw reports of events unknown to people outside. He knew where the enemy's planes had bombed, knew that the enemy had landed on Hainan Island, and that the Chinese had shot down nine planes in Lan­ chow. He knew that England had loaned the Chinese half a mil­ lion pounds. The more he knew the more confused he became. He had no heart to deal with this family matter. He remembered a smart saying that had gone the rounds, "I cannot make love for you and I cannot be the one to divorce you." But he did not say it. If he could not do things for his country he must at least pretend to be an all-round eldest brother so he had to say something. "It seems to me, Old Second, that you might try being cold for a while and see what happens. Perhaps it is just an 311 ·

impulse and it is not certain that Eastern Sun really wants her. Keep cool and perhaps the situation will reverse itself." "No, Eldest Brother, you do not understand her. When she wants to do anything she will do it. She would go forward even onto the horns of the bull and never turn back." "If that is so it would be better to separate at once and cut yourselves clearly apart and so avoid troubles in the future." "I cannot let Eastern Sun have her so cheaply." "Then what do you want to do?" "I don't know." Old Man Chi spoke. "Eldest, what you say is right. With one stroke of the knife let her go and so avoid trouble in the future." The old man had not agreed to divorce at first but the fear of more troubles changed his mind. "There's one thing, however, we must give her the divorce paper so it will not be she that is getting the divorce but we are casting her off." The old man's small eyes shone with wisdom. He felt that he was a great diplomat. "Whether it is casting her off or a divorce, after all the Second should make the decision." Rey Shuan knew that should the Sec­ ond lose his wife he could importune his brother ceaselessly to get him another. "Together we must think up the best thing to do." Rey Shuan wound up the discussion for the time being. The Second went on talking to his grandfather until midnight, but still reached no conclusion . The next day Rey Feng went again t o see Fat Chrysanthemum but she would not receive him . Rey Feng went outside the city and walked along the banks . of the moat. After walking awhile he stood still and looked at the pine trees in a cemetery. No one was in sight. It was a good place to hang himself. Looking at the graves he became frightened. The pine . trees were so dark a green, the place was so quiet, that to hang himself there all alone was not, he felt, very cheerful. An old crow in the tree cawed and startled him. He hurried away sweating from the roots of his hair and itching all over. The ice in the moat was beginning to melt and clear water was coming out of the holes where the ice had already sunk. He found a place on the bank of the moat with some dry grass and spreading his handkerchief, sat down. He felt that to dive into one of the holes in the ice would be a good way to end his troubles; but the sun on his head was so warm, and the dry grass on the bank so soft, and the little spring plants were already showing their tiny tender green shoots from under the old dry weeds, that he was not willing to give up the world where the winter had ended and the spring had come. He thought of the public parks and the restaurants, and 312

he thought of the "seven aunts and eight cousins," and this made him even more miserable. He had not the courage to end his own life nor the bones to challenge Eastern Sun . He came to the best Chinese conclusion-a good death is not as good as a mangy life. He had only one life. He was not like the grass that could die and live again . He was the grandson of his grandfather, the son of his parents, the younger brother of his eldest brother-he could not throw them away and make them shed tears and weep loudly. Yes, even if he was no longer the husband of Fat Chrysanthemum, he was Grandfather's grandson and-and- No, he could not die. He stood up and started to walk, still following the bank of the moat. About ten feet from him he saw a hat lying on the ground . He was startled . Not only had he not committed suicide but he would be richer for a hat. Could it be that "When the worst has come, the best may follow?" He took a few steps forward to look at the hat more carefully. It was an eight-parts new hat and was indeed worth picking up. He looked around and seeing no one ran quickly over and seized the hat. Under it was a man's head-the head of one who had been buried alive by the Japanese. Rey Feng's heart jumped and he quickly loosed his hand. The hat did not fall as before exactly on the man's head. Rey Feng ran a few steps and then looked back. The hat covered only half of the man's head. As if chased by demons he ran all the way to the city gate. As he wiped the sweat from his face his heart calmed down. In his mind he could still see that man's head-black hair, a fine­ featured face, and probably no more than thirty years in age. The face and the hat both looked like those of an educated man. The age, the education, the good looks, were all about the same as his own . He trembled. He would not challenge Eastern Sun. If he should offend Eastern Sun he also could be buried alive outside the city by the Japanese. He had caught cold, he was frightened, and by the time he got home he was in a fever. He lay several days on his bed. While he was ill Fat Chrysanthemum and Eastern Sun were married.

Chapter Eighteen

1 �

the peonies bloomed Wang Ching Wei went to Nanking to work with the puppet government and became the Number One traitor. To hold their own with Wang Ching Wei the traitors of Peiping curried favor with the Japanese war lords in order to make their 313 T THE TIME

own positions secure; the Japanese were equally anxious to secure North China. In each residential street in the city, for every twenty or thirty families-for each "Li" -a Head was appointed, and an Assistant Head, to help the soldiers and the police to maintain order. All the people in Peiping had to get new identification passes. At the city gates, in the markets, on the great streets, in the homes, and at any time, they might be searched and those who forgot their passes were arrested and put in prison. The middle schools and uni­ versities were not exempted when a universal search was being conducted, and teachers and students were arrested from almost every school. Some of those arrested were accused of being com­ munists, some were accused of being members of the Kuomintang. All were executed or given life imprisonment. Some were even accused of having been sent to Peiping by Wang Ching Wei-the Number One traitor in Nanking. They also suffered torture or death. The Little Sheep Fold was made into one Li with its Head and its Assistant Head. The people of the Little Sheep Fold still did not know what the Head of the Li was for. They thought that the Head of the Li must be the head man of the Little Sheep Fold to help the police manage publicly beneficial affairs. They thought therefore that Fourth Master Li would be the most suitable per­ son and all recommended him to Sergeant Pai. But Kuan the Morning Lotus had already told Sergeant Pai that he must be Head of the Li. He had already Faited for many years and had not yet succeeded in getting any position and now he could not let this opportunity pass. Even though this was not an official position, affairs lead to other affairs. In this small matter it would surely have been enough to say a word to Sergeant Pai but Morning Lotus went also to see the Japanese in house Number One to get them to put in a good word for him. Sergeant Pai disliked Morning Lotus but he had no alternative. All he could do was to ask Fourth Master to be the assistant. The old man had no desire at all to compete with Morning Lotus and did not want even to be the assistant. Sergeant Pai spoke many good words. "Fourth Master, you must help me in this matter. Everyone knows that Kuan is no good. If there was not one like you-a just man-on the side watching, there is no telling what he might do. So-for my sake and for the sake of all the old neigh­ bors-we beg you, Old Sir, to be willing to tire yourself out for us." 314

The old man accepted the post but he was not happy at having to go to see Morning Lotus. Morning Lotus was very anxious to put on airs as Head of the Li. First he had cards printed : "THE H AD MA L S F o D Lr, When his cards were printed he was ready for his assistant to come to see him so he could issue orders, but Fourth Master Li did not come. So Morning Lotus had a wooden plaque made on which was carved, H AD Lr." It was painted deep blue and he hung it outside the gate. He thought that when Fourth Master Li saw this plaque he would come quickly, but Old Man Li still did not come. Morning Lotus went to see Sergeant Pai. "I have come to ask you what is the matter with that old fellow. Why doesn't he come to see me? I am Head of the Li. Must I first go to see him?" Sergeant Pai's words were soft but the inner meaning was hard. "Really, I wonder why he does not go to see you. But since he is an old neighbor and is advanced in years it would not be a loss of face if you should go to see him." "I go to see him first?" Morning Lotus was astonished. "What kind of talk is that? I tell you I'm the Head. I stay at home and manage affairs, the running around is for the assistant. I go to see him? That would indeed be strange." "Well-it's a good thing there is nothing needing attention now," Sergeant Pai said coldly to him. But Sergeant Pai was wrong. Morning Lotus had only just left when he received a call on the telephone ordering the Head of the Li to start at once getting a contribution from each family of two catties of iron a month. Sergeant Pai knew that the iron was for making guns and firearms to kill more Chinese people. If he still regarded himself as a Chinese he could not execute that order. But he dared not disobey the order. His wages were paid by the Japanese. As if he had a great stone weighing down his shoulders he walked very, very slowly to look for Fourth Master Li. "Oh-it's really the job for the Head to do such a disagreeable thing," the old man said. "I can't do that kind of a thing." Sergeant Pai's forehead began to sweat. "If you don't go the rounds, I can guarantee the neighbors will not give the iron, and if we don't hand over the iron, I will lose my job and all the neigh­ bors will be put in prison . Do you think this a game only?" When he saw that Sergeant Pai was worried the old man said, "It's terrible, it's terrible." Then he sighed. "Let's go to see Kuan the Morning Lotus."

HEEP L

OF THE

PEIPING."

E

N OF THE ITTLE

"OFFICE OF THE E

When they reached the Kuan house the old man had decided not to be ceremonious, but to make matters clear as soon as he saw Morning Lotus. He said, "Mr. Kuan, I have come to see you for the sake of the neighbors. We must not stand on ceremony. In ordinary days if you pay me I serve you and I have nothing to say, but today we are doing things for our neighbors. You are not higher than I and I am not lower than you . If you agree to this I am willing to help. If you are not willing I also have my temper and need not trouble with all these small matters ." When he had finished speaking the old man sat down on the sofa. The sofa was very soft and as he was not willing to sit back he could not sit steadily. and was not comfortable. When Morning Lotus saw that Fourth Master Li was de­ termined, he blinked his eyes and said, "Sergeant Pai, Fourth Master Li, I have no desire to be Head of the Li. There are J apa­ nese friends, however, in our Little Sheep Fold and I was afraid that others might find it difficult to deal with them so I was willing to come out and take the post." Without waiting for Fourth Ma.ster Li to open his mouth Sergeant Pai took over the conversation. "Good, very good. I have received orders from above that will need both of you to carry out what must be done immediately. Every family must give two catties of iron every month." "Iron?" Morning Lotus seemed not to have heard distinctly. "Iron ." "What for?" Morning Lotus asked. "To make guns," Fourth Master Li answered shortly. Morning Lotus started to say, "If they want to make guns, let them . Just that they don't shoot me it does not matter." But he felt that he could not say these things out loud. All he could do was to try to lessen the Japanese sins. "Not necessarily to make guns, not necessarily. Is not iron used to make pots and kettles t 0 0 7" . Sergeant Pai, afraid that Fourth Master Li would again come into conflict with Morning Lotus, said quickly, "Oh-whatever they are going to make, we have our duty to do." "That's right, that's right." Morning Lotus nodded several times. "Fourth Master Li, you go the rounds and tell everyone to give two catties now and two more next month." Fourth Master glared at Morning Lotus but said nothing. "It's not as simple as that." Sergeant Pai smiled wryly. "First, we cannot go suddenly to each house and ask for iron. You two gentlemen must go to each house to prepare the people and let 316

them know that we are doing this because we must and not that we are glad to help the Japanese." "That's right, absolutely right. We are all good neighbors. The Japanese are also the good friends of all." Morning Lotus rounded out each word and savored it as he spoke. "If anyone cannot give the iron, we will allow them to pay cash," said Sergeant Pai. Fourth Master Li now became difficult and hard. "This thing I cannot do. To ask for iron is already unreasonable enough. If we ask for money and once the money is in our hands, we will be accused of abuse even if there is no abuse. I have lived seventy years-I cannot have the old neighbors shaking their fingers behind my back. And-if they are to pay cash-who will settle the price? If we ask too much we will irritate everyone; if too little, I cannot make up the difference. In short, the two of you talk it over-I beg to be excused." When the old man had spoken he stood up. Sergeant Pai could not let Fourth Master Li go. "Fourth Master, Fourth Master, without you we cannot do anything." Morning Lotus also begged Fourth Master to stay. This was an opportunity that should not be lost. Yes, they must set the price high. It was a simple transaction and a lot of money was about to pass through their hands. He could not let Fourth Master go for he must have Fourth Master collect the money, and he could then himself finish the business . Complaints and cursings would be the old man's share and the money would go into his own pocket. Seeing the old man sit down again he concentrated on the business and said, "I don't think anyone will have two catties of iron ready in their homes; it will be necessary for most to pay cash. Let's do it this way. I myself will first contribute two catties of iron and I will also give cash for another two catties and set a good example to all the neighbors . How will that do?" "How much would you reckon in money for a catty?" Sergeant Pai asked . "Oh-let's make it two dollars a catty." "Two dollars?" Fourth Master Li said angrily. "How much can a rickshaw boy earn a month? Sergeant Pai, you know how much a policeman earns a month. To ask for four dollars a month is to kill the people." Morning Lotus did not feel the problem so serious, but felt only that Fourth Master was purposely making trouble. "What do you think we should do?" he asked coldly. "What shall we �o?" Fourth Master smiled. "Let us stand to317

gether and tell the Japanese, tell the Japanese that we have no money, no iron-that all we have is our lives ." Morning Lotus was so frightened that he jumped up. "Fourth Master, Fourth Master, don't talk this way in my house. Are you trying to start a revolution?" Fourth Master Li stood slowly up. "I have no plans." He walked out. Sergeant Pai was worried and also quickly excused himself. He did not want to talk alone with Morning Lotus . He decided to go and talk with Fourth Master in the afternoon and unless Fourth Master agreed to help he would not leave it to Morning Lotus. The New People's League put up posters everywhere in the streets, and on them was written, "Those who have money give money : those who do not have money give iron ." The wording was clever. It did not speak of contributing iron but of contributing money and only those without money could substitute iron . In this way they did not need to explain why they wanted iron. Mr. Chien's leaflets had also reached people's hands. "Resist and do not give iron. The enemy will use our iron to make more guns to kill more of our own people." Big Red Pepper had. been visiting her maternal home. When on her return she saw the wooden plaque on the gate, she took it off and threw it on the ground. She went into the house and without waiting to take off the hat with the pheasant feathers, she shouted angrily, "Morning Lotus!" Morning Lotus was in the southern room. He did not know what had made the Director lose her temper this time. With a smile care­ fully placed on his face, he came running. "You have come back. Are all well at home?'' "I ask you, what is the meaning of that plaque on the gate?" "That?" Morning Lotus was relieved. " I am Head of the Li." "Hum! That you can be so low as even to love the position of Head of the Li! Go and split that plaque into kindling wood. I am the Director of a Bureau. Yet you want to be Head of the Li and lose face for me. Are you crazy? I won't stand having a lot of stinking policemen and people of no account coming to my place. Why don't you think before you act? Is your brain a piece of cotton wool? You are over fifty but you have lived in vain." Big R�d Pep­ per took off her hat and looked at the pheasant feather which quivered slightly.

"I beg to inform the Director," Morning Lotus controlled him­ self and said slowly, "that I know the position of Head of the Li is not a handsome one; it may, however, lead to something." "What can it lead to?" Big Red Pepper's voice was slightly lower. "For example, if people want to contribute iron but have none in the house what would they do?" Morning Lotus purposely waited to see what Big Red Pepper would say but she made no answer so he continued to explain . "They could then Contribute money. Well-suppose we say that iron is two dollars a catty, I will charge them three dollars a catty. In this Li of ours there are at least twenty families and suppose that each month each family hands over two dollars' more than · the cost of the iron, that would be forty or fifty dollars a month. A teacher in an elementary school has to teach for thirty hours a week and is paid only about fifty dollars . Besides, they are asking for iron today-how can we know that they will not ask tomorrow for brass, zinc, and lead? At one haul I get fifty dollars and if there are five items I will get two hundred and fifty dollars . A teacher in a middle school gets only a hundred and twenty dollars a month. Think that over." "Enough, enough," Big Red Pepper stopped · her husband's words, but there was a smile on her face. "You are a living jewel ." Morning Lotus had just got the plaque hung back again when Sergeant Pai arrived . Sergeant Pai was not happy to see Big Red Pepper in the room . Having been a policeman for many years he believed that he could deal with all kinds of people except women, especially tough, hot­ tempered women. He explained in a few words that the levy of iron should start immediately, and exactly as he expected Big Red Pepper took over the conversation. "There is nothing difficult about this little business. Tell them to contribute and arrest those who do not. Put them in prison. That's all." Sergeant Pai ten parts did not like this kind of talk but he did not argue with her. He mentioned Fourth Master Li and Big Red Pepper again spoke. "Send for him . It's his business to run around. Dare he not come? I will turn him and his wife over to the J apa­ nese. I tell you, Sergeant Pai, to manage affairs you must not be too softhearted and kind. Anyway, we have the Japanese behind us so what are you afraid of?" Big Red Pepper was silent for a while and then with great dignity said, "Come." A manservant came in very respectfully. "Go and get Fourth Master Li. Tell him that if he doesn't come today tomorrow he will be in prison . Do you understand? Go." 3 19

Fourth Master Li had never in his life hung his head but today hanging his head he went to the Kuan house. He had to call on that loose woman in order to save his old life, so that he might die at home and not in prison. Without wasting words he promised to collect the iron but he refused to ask people to pay cash. "If they have not iron let them go and buy it themselves. If they buy dearly or cheaply it will not be my responsibility. The money will not pass through my hands . They will have nothing to complain about." "Then I resign. If the people buy the iron themselves, whenever would it be bought? I cannot take the responsibility for delays," Morning Lotus said with anger. Sergeant Pai was in difficulties. Fourth Master Li would not give in. Big Red Pepper spoke, "Fourth Master, go and get on with the work. If this way of doing doesn't suit we will think of another-a better way." She had made up her mind : she must go quickly and buy in scrap iron and then raise the price and let the people buy from her. But she was too late. Dr. Kao and Eastern Sun had already bought up the scrap. Fourth Master Li told the people of the Little Sheep Fold that he would come the next day to collect iron. When they saw Fourth Master Li come they were comfortable. To give up iron was not c:i. good thing, but if Old Man Li was managing it, they were able to forget that the thing itself was unreasonable. Mr. Chien's leaf­ lets had made everyone feel uncomfortable for a while but the people of Peiping were not people who started revolutions . Old Man Chi and Yun Mei hunted out all the old iron things in the house. Each piece seemed to have no use and yet to have some use. There were even one or two that were really useless, still their emotions found some reason these should not be cast away. They selected, compared-and found it very hard to make a decision. Others in the Little Sheep Fold were like Old Man Chi. From the corners of their houses they searched for treasures that would keep them from punishment and while they searched they also got some amusement. Some remembered clearly that somewhere they had an iron article but could not find it, and just as they were about to lose their tempers would remember that they had them­ selves exchanged it for some sweets. Some, finding an old chopping knife and comparing it with the one in use, saw that the old one was better than the new one. These little incidents made them 3 20 •

forget their anger and between laughing and crying they searched for iron. Hardly a family in the mixed court at Number Seven could pro­ duce two catties of iron . They had to buy iron . They knew that Fourth Master Li was a just man who was unwilling to take squeeze, but when they heard that iron had risen a dollar a catty in the last few days, their hearts chilled . And they heard that the Head of the Li, Mr. Kuan, wanted only $2.50 a catty if one paid in cash, and that the Assistant, Fourth Master Li, would not agree. Before long Fourth Master Li had changed into the worst kind of man . No one took the trouble to wonder if Morning Lotus was purposely making trouble, nor did they remember all the favors Old Man Li had done for them in the past. They felt only that to have to buy a catty of iron for $3 .00 and then perhaps not be able to get it was entirely the fault of Fourth Master Li. The anger against the Japanese changed its course and was all directed toward Fourth Master. Some even cursed openly under the locust trees . When he heard these grumblings Fourth Master Li did not come out to clear himself. He was no match for the Japanese or even for Morning Lotus and Big Red Pepper. And now even his good friends had turned against him. As he sat in his room he hoped only that one or two of the neighbors would speak up for him. Hoping and thinking, he thought of Old Man Chi . Old Man Chi carrying an old broken iron pot came in the gate and said, "Fourth Master, to save you steps I have brought it over." To see Old Man Chi was like seeing his own brother. Fourth Master Li at once told him the whole story. Old Man Chi was silent a long time before he spoke. "Fourth Master, the times have changed and the hearts of the people have also changed but don't worry. Four old eyes, yours and mine, will watch them and we'll see who will outlast who." Fourth Master sighed and nodded. Fourth Mistress began to understand from the conversation of the two old men the matter of the iron contributions and the troubles connected with them. She was of a direct temperament : as in the past she had been diligent in helping those who needed help, now-hearing that they had attacked "the Old Thing"-she wanted to give it back to them at once. She wanted to go immedi� ately to Number Seven and curse those ungrateful people. The old men stopped her with great difficulty. So while making tea for them she cursed loudly in their own courtyard. Many people had gone to the Kuan house to pay cash. Firstly, 321

to make it look bad for Fourth Master Li; and secondly, the Kuan family was willing to take the $2.50 price instead of $3 .00. Morning Lotus did not lose money. Although the price in the open market had jumped quickly from $3 .oo to $3 .40, Big Red Pepper by pressing Dr. Kao's neck had bought a part of Dr. Kao's iron and paid him only $2.oo a catty. "Good, we did not make much but after all we have started with a good little bargain," Morning Lotus said with some satisfaction .

Chapter Nineteen

�J v' V i

two operas only. One was The Suspicious and the other was The Lucky Match. She was in­ telligent enough but she had been extremely busy. She had to skate, and to learn the operas, and to attend parties. Her life was quite complicated . If there were three boy friends and one asked her to go to the movies, and one asked her to go to the opera, and one asked her to go to a restaurant in the park, she could not at one time go to all three places. If she stayed for only half of the movie, and then went to the opera, and then to eat in the park, she would have to do a lot of explaining, make up a lot of stories, and perhaps offend all three, at that. Sometimes she began to feel that boy friends were a nuisance, and that among her friends, the newly acquired ones-the actresses and actors-were more satisfy­ ing. Their ways were not conventional and their speech was rough and vulgar. With them she could almost forget she was a girl. They could all talk loosely without their faces becoming red, and she felt that this was good and proper. She was busy and tired, and had lost weight. She thought that perhaps she was ill but when she made up her face her confidence returned. She learned to smoke cigarettes and dared drink as much as two cups of strong wine. To avoid being sent to a brothel Peach Blossom had attached herself desperately to Meydee. She did not ten parts hate Meydee, so she did not want to encourage her in the misbehavior that would ruin her, yet since she had attached herself to Meydee to shield herself, she could not pour cold water on Meydee's head to warn her, for fear of offending her and losing the shield. In the beginning Meydee seemed to see through Peach Blos­ som's friendliness and to know that it was diplomacy only; but after a while, with Peach Blossom's ability to talk, ability to adjust 322 EYDEE HAD LEARNED

Sleepers

to her temperament, she felt comfort and began to believe that Peach Blossom was really a good friend. Moreover, Peach Blossom was much younger than Big Red Pep­ per, and as her appearance was adequate, Meydee could go out and come in with her and feel like the new moon with a tiny star in attendance. When she was with her mother, people all looked at the overdressed old woman, and only afterwards did they look at her, and people could not help laughing as if they were looking at a comic movie. This constantly made her uncomfortable. Big Red Pepper saw through Peach Blossom's plan, but she knew that Meydee was a priceless treasure who could in the future be as great as the imperial concubine Yang Kwei Fei; and she knew that she must keep control of the treasure and at the same time please the young lady. If there should be fighting between mother and daughter over Peach Blossom, and the daughter should marry some person of no special account-a handsome rabbit with not a catty of rice in the house-would Big Red Pepper not have broken her own agate plate and jade cup? No, she must leave the way open, letting the young lady be comfortable in small things so that in the big matters she would listen to her mother. For the time being she did not make plans for sending Peach Blossom away. The weather began to be very cold. Coal could not be bought. Every day there were many frozen to death on the street, because the Japanese had sent all the coal away. Then to show their kind­ ness they started a series of winter relief shows, the entire proceeds of which were to go to gruel kitchens for the poor. They thought also at this time that they might as well let the people of Peiping amuse themselves once more. Amusement is an aqesthetic. They especially encouraged the young to join in this series of entertain­ ments. If the young men and women set their attention on singing and drama they would forget their country and their race. Eastern Sun and Fat Chrysanthemum came in person to invite Miss Meydee to give a performance. The Kuan family at once be­ came very much excited. Morning Lotus quickly said, "My .young lady, my young lady, this is our chance. Now you will perform not only once but perhaps twice." Meydee's throat went dry. She said petulantly, "It can't be done. I have not practiced for many days . I haven't yet memorized the music. Go on the stage-no, I won't go on the stage and lose face." "Lose face? What are you talking about? No one in the Kuan family will ever do anything to lose face, my young lady. Nobody's throat is made of steel. Everyone is good sometimes, and some­ times not so good. If only you consent to go on the stage-even a 323

fart from you will be good for them to hear, and anyway the tickets will all have been sold. If you do well that will be the good luck of the audience. If you do not sing well-what of it?" Morning Lotus with shining eyes explained truly his philosophy of irre­ sponsibility. "You should sing," Big Red Pepper said with great manner and dignity. "Not to show off after having studied such a long time and after we have spent so much money-what kind of talk is that?" Then she turned to Eastern Sun. "Eastern Sun, we consent, but there is one condition : Meydee must be the last one on the pro­ gram. No matter who are the other performers, they must give way to her." Eastern Sun had had some experience in managing charity shows . He knew that Meydee was not qualified to be the last performer but he also knew that the Japanese were glad to see new talent. Twisting his green face he agreed. It gave him an opportunity to show his power to be able to say, "Whoever I choose to sing first will sing first, and whoever I choose to sing last will sing last-it's not a matter of qualification and experience." After the death of Little Tsui, Cheng Chang Shun had carried on a small business with John Ting. This little business, which was very peculiar and dirty, had been discovered by John Ting. From the English Palace he had often seen one carload after another of old uniforms going into the Japanese Embassy and the Japanese barracks . He could see that the uniforms were padded because they looked very thick, but their weight was too light. Each carload was piled high but the horses did not seem to be putting forth much strength . His curiosity was aroused. He went to see a man working in the Japanese barracks and made some inquiries. The servants in the Legation Quarter were a group to them­ selves . This servant in the Japanese barracks was a friend of John Ting's but he was not willing to tell him what it all meant. Being from the English Palace, John Ting felt superior to his friend who worked in the Japanese barracks, and wanted to throw back his head and walk away without asking any more questions; but when luck knocks the mind is active. He invited his friend to go with him for a drink. As a hereditary Christian he had always been against drinking, but in order to satisfy his curiosity he had to ask for a leave of absence from God. The wine was effectual . After downing three cups the friend told the truth : The Japanese in North China had gathered together many puppet soldiers and in winter they must issue to each a winter 3 24

uniform, a suit of padded clothes. But the cotton of North China had been sent by the Japanese to Japan and could not be brought back for the puppet army. The Japanese braintrust had studied the problem and had invented a substitute. The substitute needed no machinery to make. All that was needed was old rags and old paper. That was enough. Uniforms of this kind would tear if touched, if wet would collapse, and even worn in their best condition could not keep out the cold. But these were the uniforms the puppet army got. If the Japanese called them uniforms they were uniforms. The contract to make these uniforms was in the hands of a Japanese. This friend of John Ting's was in on the monopoly. John Ting spent ten whole days to get a small share of the monopoly-the commission to make a thousand of the uniforms. After he had got the commission, he went to church with the utmost devotion, took holy communion, and even contributed half a dollar. ( On ordinary Sundays he gave only ten cents.) Then he decided to take Cheng Chang Shun as his partner because in the whole of the Little Sheep Fold only Cheng Chang Shun was honest and at the same time was willing to have anything to do with him. John Ting's plan of work was this : he would ask an advance pay­ ment as capital, and have Chang Shun buy the rags, old clothes, and old paper. If any of the old clothes were padded the cotton was taken out and sold again and the profit divided between him and Chang Shun in the three-seven proportion-he took seven­ tenths and gave Chang Shun three. This was not exactly fair but he considered Chang Shun still a child who certainly could not be equal to a grown man and a hereditary Christian at that, and expect an equal division of profits.

Chapter Twenty

did not know what to do. Winter had come O LDand it was really time for people to buy cotton wool and cloth to TIEN YIU

make their winter clothes but he could not get any cotton wool or cloth. If he could not buy there was nothing for him to sell. Ten customers would come in and perhaps seven or eight went out emptyhanded. There was only a small stock in the store which he managed, and the longer he sold the less there was. In the past his shelves had been piled high and systematically with bolts of many-colored cloth. The blue cloth was blue, and the white white-all so orderly and warm. Some pieces gave forth the fragrance of indigo and some a 32 5

brilliance pleasant to the eye. Tien Yiu sitting on a bench with a thick blue cushion near the door of his shop would look at his goods on the shelves, smeII the fragrance of the indigo and would without thinking, feel happy and comfortable. These were goods and they were also capital that could produce interest. They were also credit, good faith, management, orderliness and many other things . By the side of his bench were two large baskets of cotton wool, snowy-white, soft, warm, and making his heart feel light. If he looked to one side he could see a half of the inner counter. Although his main business was to seII cotton cloth, he had also a fairly good line of brocades, satins, silks, and gauzes which he dis­ played in the inner store. Some of these finer goods were wrapped in soft, thick, wooIIy paper and stood inside glass wall cases . Some were folded and laid flat in the glass show cases . This part of the shop was not as plain and unornamented as the outer shop and it had its own atmosphere. Each kind of goods had its own brilliance and dignity which led his imagination to the gentleness and beauty of the culture of Soochow and Hangchow from which the silk came, and to think of the happiest moments of his life. If his old father should have the great good fortune to live to celebrate his eightieth birthday would he not make him a dark blue or purple satin gown? And would not a newly married couple wear something made from that silk? Whenever he looked at the inner shop, he thought not only of fine clothing and of enough to eat, he thought also of a peaceful and plenteous age when even the peasant used a few feet of silk when he married off his daughter. Three hundred and sixty-five days of the year he was in his shop. He never tired of his way of living, of his business and the goods . He had not much ambition. He was like a little fish : if there was but some clear water and green weeds he was happy to swim about and did not care whether it was in a lake or in a porcelain jar. But now the two baskets of cotton wool had long ago disap­ peared. There were left only the empty baskets thrown into the back courtyard. The shelves in the outer shop were more than half empty. At first Tien Yiu had told the clerks to shift the goods and distribute them evenly so that although the shelves were not fiIIed, yet there was none entirely empty. But after a while even by shift­ ing the goods the shelves could not be covered. Those empty just had to be empty. Tien Yiu felt that he could not lift his head in his own shop . The empty shelves were like eye sockets without eyes, staring at him day and night, ridiculing him. There was no other way but to paste up the empty shelves with colored paper, although that was obviously cheating himself. 3 26

The shelves were now more than half pasted over. Inside the counter sat only one old clerk-the others had all been discharged -and he had nothing to do. The inner shop by comparison was better looking but it made him feel even more unhappy . Silk and satin were like a woman's hair, they should be newly dressed every day. There was no hope of selling goods which had been on display for three months, and after half a year they became curios, worth­ less curios . There was only one clerk in the inner shop also, and he too had nothing to do. To make the best of it he could only clean the glass of the shelves and the cupboards . The brighter the glass the more the old silks and satins showed their fade; the white be­ came yellow and the yellow white. Tien Yiu was a man who spoke little, and now seeing these goods deteriorate, he became more silent than ever. Secretly he went to see the neighboring shops. In the sweetmeat shop, because of the lack of flour, the pots were empty and the stoves cold. There was not much business in the shop that sold tea leaves; because of the difficulties of transportation they could not get their stock. There was not a single piece of pork in the pork­ selling shops . Seeing these things made him feel a bit more at peace. Yes, all were alike. It was not that he alone had no ability and did not know how to manage. But this comfort lasted only a little while, and after he had thought carefully his heart again contracted . He thought : if things go on this way, business will stop and then we will all freeze and starve to death . Before long he received a notice to make an inventory of all his goods . He had heard long ago that this might happen but now it had become a reality. Tien Yiu knew that this was an '·'Imperial Edict of Confiscation" as in the old days . When everyone had filled in all the forms, the Japanese would have a very clear notion of what goods there were in Peiping, and how much they were worth. Peiping would no more be a famous city with lakes, hills, and palaces, but would be a piece of property with a settled price, and the owner of that property would be the Japanese. The people in the shop were so few that Tien Yiu himself had to help check the goods carefully and fill out the forms. It was true that his goods were not many but to check carefully was not simple. He knew that the Japanese mind was as detailed as our hairs are fine. If he should report only the rough outline, he knew it would bring trouble. He must even measure the remnants most carefully -one inch and a tenth of an inch must be measured and recorded, and the price estimated to a copper and a tenth of a copper. Checking his goods carefully and estimating the price, he still 3 27

dared not write the results down on the forms. He did not know whether to make the prices high or low. He knew that there was not much hope of selling the left-over stock. If he put the prices high and he could not sell them the Japanese could use this esti­ mate to demand taxes . If on the contrary he put the prices too low and he sold all at those prices, he would lose money, and be­ sides he would make his fellow shopkeepers curse him for such low prices. He knit his brows and went to other shops to make in­ quiries. In the past he had his own way of doing things but now he was going to learn from others. His fellow shopkeepers also ];ad no plans. Tien Yiu thought of a middle way. He put the prices of the salable goods a little higher and he priced those which he had no hope of selling, at a discount. After he had sent in all the forms he sat from morning to night trying to guess what the next step would be, but he could not guess . He felt depressed and anxious . To have to take direction from others in his business was an insult. He waited day after day until the inspectors came. Some were in plain clothes and some in uniform; some were Chinese and some Japanese. This display of force was not as though they had come to inspect but as if they had come to arrest some great desperado. The Japanese liked to make a grain of sesame as big as the whole round world . Tien Yiu was strong physically and very seldom had headaches or fevers, but today his head began to ache. The inspectors held the forms, and Tien Yiu with the yardstick measured each piece of cloth over again for them to see if the measurements agreed with what was written on the forms . Tien Yiu nearly forgot his politeness and his manners. He wanted to knock out their teeth with the ruler. This was not business but a cross-examination. He had been an honorable man all his life but now in their eyes he was a veteran thief full of tricks and many inventions. The inspection was over and they had discovered no default except that he was short a piece of cloth. That it had been sold the day before they would not accept as excuse. The old man's face became purple with anger but he still talked with them patiently and pleasantly. He brought his day book for them to see. He even brought out the money he had taken for the cloth . "Here it is. It has not been touched-five dollars and ten cents." No, they would not acknowledge the account. The matter was not settled when they discovered another "fraud.'' Why was some of the stock priced so low? They asked for the old 328

price list. "Well, the price you ask is lower than the price at which you bought. What is the meaning of this?" Tien Yiu's mustached mouth began to tremble and he swallowed several times before he could speak. "These are old goods . They do not sell readily. Therefore-" It would not do, it would not do. This had been questioned obviously and purposely to make trouble. "Let me change it." The old man forced himself to smile. "Change it! What kind of official business would that be?" "What shall I do?" The old man's head ached as though it would split. "What do you think should be done?" The old man was like a homeless dog, cornered and beaten with sticks. The clerk came over and offered tea and cigarettes to all, and stealthily pulled at the old man's sleeve and whispered, "Give them money." The old man in tears admitted his mistake and volunteered to pay a fine. He offered them fifty dollars. They refused to take the money no matter how much they were urged, and stopped their polite protestations only when another ten was added. After they had left, Tien Yiu could only sit down and shake. He had been called a dishonest trader and had given out money for which he could not account. How was he to enter that money in his books? He had been insulted and blackmailed and he had no face to tell anyone about it. He thought of going home to see his family. He could not talk of the troubles in his heart to other shopkeepers but he could talk of them to his father, his wife, and his son . He left the shop but after going a few steps he came back . Enough, it was best that one's troubles were kept in one's own heart. There was no need to make the people at home unhappy also. When he returned to the shop he took out a fox-paw fur coat that he had worn only a few. times. He gave it to the clerk and said, "Take it and sell it for me. This fur is not much above the average but I have worn it only a few times, and the cloth of the coat is real satin ." "It is getting colder and you sell your fur coat?" the clerk asked him. "I don't like to wear it and if it stays here it just stays here. How much better to change it for a few pieces of money that can be used. Since it is getting on into the cold weather we might get a better price for it." "What shall I sell it for?"

"See what you can get. Fifty or sixty dollars will do. The differ­ ence between buying and selling is always great. When selling an article you must not think of the price at which it was bought. Don't you agree?" The clerk ran around for a long time and the highest bid he got was forty-five dollars. "All right, forty-five, sold." Tien Yiu was very determined. Besides this forty-five dollars he got together from here and there another fifteen dollars and putting it all together returned the sixty dollars to the shop. He could go without a fur coat but he could not let the shop lose sixty dollars . After several days he received the price list made out by the Japanese. The old man looked carefully at the list, item by item: When he had finished he did not say a word, put on his hat and walked out. He went out of the city through the Gate of Impar­ tiality. He could not breathe inside the city but must find an open space in which he could breathe and think. The prices set by the Japanese did not reach the buying price by two-thirds and the shop was forbidden to make any changes . "Whoever changes the price list for his own convenience shall be regarded as one who raises the price to disturb the public order and will be shot." Fresh water had been let into the moat so that when the north­ west winds came there would be ice for storage. The water flowed freely but there were already spears of ice on the edges of the moat. The trees in the fields and on the banks had all shed their leaves; one could see a long distance. The Western Hills were not the deep blue of summer but were pale as if afraid of the cold . The sunshine was not very warm; The shadows of the trees and of men were all light, thin and small, as though cast by moonlight. Tien Yiu looked at the far hills, looked at the water in the moat, and heaved a deep sigh. How could he conduct his business? What were the Japanese trying to do? Yes, if everything had a fixed price the people would not be cheated by the merchants. But if the fixed price was too low, how would the merchants live? Were not merchants people also? What did the Japanese mean? He stood in a stupor on the bank of the moat. He forgot where he was. He thought and thought, and the more he thought the more confused he became. He wanted to plunge into the water and end all his sufferings. A little breeze woke him. The water flowing before his eyes, the leafless willow trees, the withered weeds, suddenly became clear to him. He had it. It was very simple, very simple. It was just to show 3 30 ·

·

the people that with .the Japanese here the prices of goods do not go up, that the Japanese have ways of doing things, and that their government is good. Who cares how the merchants make a living? The Japanese good government was murder without shedding blood. He looked again at the water in the moat and then quickly turned away. He must go and tell the owners of the shop what he had thought out. The thick soles of his shoes pounded on the path as he walked desperately toward the city. He was one that could not put off action when once he had thought a matter out. He saw all the owners but none had any ideas . They wanted to close the shop but knew that the Japanese would not allow them to do so. They knew that there was no hope for the business but none knew of any way to save anything from the disaster. All trusted Tien Yiu and respected him but none could think of any­ thing for him to do. He could only return to his shop and sit there stupidly. Another order came : "Each time ten feet only of cloth can be sold. If an added inch is sold there will be punishment." This was not an order; this was a joke. Ten feet of cloth was not enough to make· a suit of clothes, coat and trousers, nor to make a man's long gown . The Japanese were short in stature and perhaps ten feet of cloth would be enough for them, but the Chinese are not all short. Tien Yiu began to laugh . The short ones gave the orders and the tall ones must obey, and there was nothing that could be said . He was very unhappy but pretended to be indifferent and said, 'This makes it easy : the price is fixed, the amount is fixed...:....we can put away our abacus ." When he said this, tears filled his eyes. This was not business. And every day they must open the shop. He had always been a patient and steady man but now he did not want to sit here any longer. He wanted to leave the shop and never come back again. The next day he went out in the very early morning. He had no purpose but to stroll and as he passed the small stands for selling goods he would stop and look in order to use up a few more moments of time. When he got back to the shop he saw several pairs of rubber shoes on the counter and a few old Japanese toys. "Whose are these?" Tien Yiu asked. "They were just brought." The clerk smiled sadly . "Each person who buys ten feet of silk must also buy a pair of rubbers . Each one who buys ten feet of cotton cloth must also buy a toy. This is an order." 331

Tien Yiu looked at the things and it was a long time before he could speak. "Well, the rubbers could be said to have some useful� ness, but of what use are those toys? And they are so old. This is to blackmail the customers." The clerk looked outside before he said in a soft voice, "The Japanese factories are all making munitions and have stopped making new toys ." "Perhaps." Tien Yiu did not want to discuss the problems of Japanese industry. He felt only that these old toys were an added insult, and anger rose in him. "Put them in the back shop, quickly. The establishment with a name of many years' standing now sells toys, and old ones at that. Hum ! " He watched the clerk take the things to the back shop and then made himself a cup of tea. He drank a cup of tea slowly, then another, and then another. This was not the way he usually drank tea; it was tea drinking to dispel his anger. And as he looked into the tea in his cup he thought of the water in the moat he had seen the day before. He felt that the water in the moat was lovely, and not only lovely, but that it could solve all his problems. He was a man whose thoughts followed a straight and narrow path and did not range widely. He could not take problems that could not be solved as insoluble problems; he took problems that could not be solved as tests of himself. If he could not solve this problem he should quickly make an end to himself. It would not be unpleasant to float, float, float down with the water of the river, float to the great ocean. Just after noon a large truck stopped outside the shop. "Here they are again," the clerk said. "Who?" Tien Yiu asked. "Bringing more goods.'' Three Chinese and a Japanese jumped from the truck, and rushed, fierce as wolves and tigers, into the shop. One of the Chinese shouted with great excitement, "Where are the goods we just brought? Where are the goods?" The clerk went quickly to the back shop and got them. When he brought them in, the Chinese seized them immediately and with motions like a chicken scratching the soil, counted vigorously, "One pair, two pairs-" When he had finished the counting, the muscles on his face relaxed. He said with a smile to the Japanese, "Ten pairs over the right count. I said that the trouble was here­ it was sure to be here." The Japanese looked Tien Yiu up and down for a long time and then arrogantly and coldly asked him, "You are the manager?" Tien Yiu nodded. 332

"Ha, you accepted the goods?" The clerk tried to answer but Tien Yiu moved forward, and again nodded to the Japanese. He was the manager and should take the responsibility even if the mistake was the clerk's . "You are a big, big bad egg." Tien Yiu . gulped and swallowed his anger. Still with ceremony and in a gentle voice, he said, ''Did we get ten pairs too many? If that is so, we can return them." "Return them? You big, big dishonest trader." And without warning the Japanese slapped his face. The face of the clerk paled. He forced himself to smile and say, "Gentlemen, you gave me twenty pairs and I received twenty pairs. Why-why-" "We gave you twenty pairs?" one of the Chinese asked. His terrifying manner was second · only to that of the Japanese. "Who does not know that it is ten pairs for each shop. You took the opportunity-in the excitement-to take ten pairs more. You are really very bold to try to put the blame on us ." They had in fact left ten pairs too many but the clerk did not know that he had accepted too many. They had, because of this ten pairs of rubbers, run around over half the city. They had to find out where those ten pairs of rubbers were, but when they dis­ covered them they could not acknowledge their own mistake. The clerk had a good idea . "Yes, we took ten pairs too many. Well-we'll pay for them." This time they refused the bribe. They insisted that they must take the manager. The Japanese, in order to enforce price control, wanted to use this opportunity to show their authority. They dragged Tien Yiu out. From the truck they took a sleeveless jacket of white cloth on which was written front and back in large red characters, They threw the jacket to him and made him put it on. By this time there was a crowd around the shop. Shaking all over Tien Yiu put on the jacket. The Japanese got on the truck. The three Chinese walked slowly with Tien Yiu . The truck followed them. When they reached the main street the three men told Tien Yiu that he must say, "I'm a profiteer. I took too many goods. I don't sell according to a fixed price. I'm a profiteer." They ordered him to say it. Tien Yiu said not a word . Three pistols were pressed against his back. "Say it." "I'm a profiteer," Tien Yiu said in a low voice. His voice was never loud. He could not shout. "Louder." 333

"PROFITEER."

"I'm a profiteer." Tien Yiu raised his voice a little. "Still louder." "I'm a profiteer," Tien Yiu shouted. The people walking on the street all stood still and those with nothing pressing to do followed. Tien Yiu's eyes were blinded with tears. The road was familiar but it was as though he did not know it. He felt only that the road was wide and the people many and as though he were looking at it for the first time. He did not know what he was doing but mechanically shouted the words. Gradually the sweat on his head and the tears in his eyes flowed together and he could not see clearly the people or the road or anything. His head drooped but still he continued to shout. He did not need to think of the words for it was as though they jumped of themselves out of his mouth. Suddenly he lifted his head and again saw the road, the traffic, the people walking; but all was strange to him, a world full of color and sound which had nothing to do with him. Everyone looked at him. He was close to them, yet far away. He again bent his head. After he had walked down two streets he lost his voice. He was tired and dizzy but his legs still carried him on. He did not know where he had been nor toward what he was walking. He still shouted those words but since he was hoarse it was as though he mumbled to himself. He lifted his head and saw an arch with four bright red pillars. Those four pillars suddenly became very thick and very tall, · and seemed to sway from side to side, and walk toward him. As they walked toward him, all before his eyes turned red; all in heaven and on the earth was red. His mind was also red. He shut his eyes . When he opened his eyes, he knew that he was lying somewhere near the Eastern Single Arch . The truck had disappeared . The three gunmen had also disappeared. Only a crowd of children sur· rounded him. He sat up and stared around. He looked down and saw his own chest-the jacket had disappeared. On his chest was foam and blood, still wet. Slowly he stood up, only to fall again. His legs were like sticks. Struggling he again stood up. When he had stood upright he saw that there was a little sunshine left on the top of the arch . There was not a spot on his body without pain . His throat was so dry it was about to crack. Step by step, halting between steps, he walked toward the west. His mind was blank. His old father, his sick wife, his three sons, his daughter-in-law, his grandson and granddaughter, and his shop; seemed all to have never existed. He saw only the moat and that lovable water, as though the water were flowing on the road and 3 34

beckoned to him . He nodded. His world had gone. He must go to another world. In this other world his shame could be washed away. Alive, he would be shame itself. That white-cloth, red-lettered jacket would be forever on his body, stuck on him, branded on him. He would forever be a blot on his family and his shop-a black blot that would turn sunshine black and make flowers stink, per­ vert justice and turn kindness into ferocity. He hired a rickshaw to the Gate of Impartiality. Holding to the walls of the great gate tunnel he went outside the city. The sun had set. The trees on the banks of the moat stood quietly. A tiny glow of sunset was still left. The water in the moat flowed fast. It gurgled softly as though to call him. All that had happened to him in his life passed quickly through his mind. Very quickly he had forgotten all. Floating, floating, floating, he was floating to the great ocean where he would have freedom-cool, clean, and happy freedom which would wash away the red letters on his breast. Tien Yiu's body did not float to the big river or the great ocean but was caught by the ice and the roots and the weeds frozen to the side of the moat. Early the next morning the body was discovered but the news I did not reach the Chi family until the afternoon.

Chapter Twenty-one 11\ R. KAO had asked Chang Shun to go to the tea shop for a talk. J..,,I Dr. Kao was very polite and paid for the tea as soon as they sat down. Then like real friends having tea together he talked of inconsequential matters . He asked if Old Mrs . Ma was well, and how were their finances, could they get along. He also asked about Sun the Seventh and John Ting. Although Chang Shun regarded himself as a grownup, he was still quite young after all, and the paths of thought in his mind were still few, so he answered as the questions came. He did not realize that Dr. Kao was not just gossiping idly. While talking of this and that Dr. Kao mentioned Little Mrs . Tsui. Chang Shun answered in even greater detail and with some excitement, because the life of Little Mrs. Tsui had really been saved by him and his grandmother. He could not help feeling proud about it and also he thanked Dr. Kao in her stead by saying, 335

"That ten dollars every month has really been useful. It has saved her life." Dr. Kao, as if he had thought of it only through Chang Shun's mention of the ten dollars, said, ''Oh-if you had not mentioned it I would have forgotten, but since you have spoken of it-well­ let's talk about it." Quietly he folded back the sleeves of his gown and showed his snow-white undershirt, then slowly put his hands inside his coat and took out the little notebook. Chang Shun knew that little notebook. Dr. Kao sucked in his breath and turned it page by page. When he had turned to a certain place, he looked at it carefully, turned his eyes upward, and counted on his fingers . He smiled and said, "Good, very good, exactly five hundred dol­ lars ." "What?" Chang Shun's eyes opened wide. "Five hundred?" "Could there be anything wrong?" Ours is a fair game. Did you keep an account?" Dr. Kao still smiled but his eyes were not as gentle. Chang Shun shook his big head. "You should keep accounts. No matter what you do, I beg you to remember, you must be careful and not do things hugger­ mugger." "I know. But that money-you gave her that money. Why should I keep an account?" Chang Shun's nasal tones had become heavier. "I gave to her?" Dr. Kao was very much surprised . "With con­ ditions as they are-just think-who could give anyone money for nothing?" "Didn't you say-" Chang Shun began to smeII something queer. "I said? I said that the money she borrowed you guaranteed . I have your signature here. Capital and interest together, five hundred dollars ." "I-I-I-" Chang Shun could not speak. "Of course it's you . If it wasn't you could it have been me?" Dr. Kao's eyes were fixed on Chang Shun's face and Chang Shun dared not even move. Chang Shun looked down and said, "What is the meaning of this?" "Come, come, come, don't act stupid with me, my young brother. At the very beginning you pitied her. Who wouldn't pity her? 'AII men have the same kind of hearts, and all hearts have the same emotions.' I can't blame you. You have a good heart and you came to borrow money from me." "I didn't." "Eh-eh-young man you mustn't forget what is honest." Dr. 3 36 ·

Kao seemed almost to be preaching. " 'To live in the world is to be a human being, and the foundations are honesty and justice.' " "I did not borrow money from you. You gave it to me." Chang Shun's nose sweated. Dr. Kao's eyes became slits. He stretched his neck and the warm breath from his mouth blew on Chang Shun's temples . "Well­ who, I ask you, who? Who signed this?" "I-I don't know." "To have signed and not know. Nonsense, ridiculous . If I did not think you had a good heart I would certainly slap you. Stop talking nonsense. We have to think of a way to work this out. Who will be responsible for this debt, and how will it be paid?" "I have no way to pay it. If you want to kill me, kill me." Tears came to Chang Shun's eyes . "Don't try to get out of it with tricks. 'If you want to kill me, kill me' -what kind of talk is that? If you want to know the truth, to kill you would be very simple. I tell you, the money belongs to Director Kuan. She trusted me with it, to lend out, for interest. Even if I am easy to deal with-yes, easy to deal with-I can't afford to lose money for Director Kuan. I must not offend her and it goes without saying that all the more you cannot afford to offend her. When she stamps her foot, half of Peiping shakes. We two, just the two of us-dare we hope to share the flesh that is already in the tiger's mouth? She has the power, she has the ability, she has the Japanese to help her. We two-in her eyes do we count for anything? To say nothing about you-if I cannot pay this five hundred dollars, she will certainly give me three years in prison. Not one day less. You think it over." Chang Shun's eyes flashed fire. "Let her give me three years in prison. I have no money. Little Mrs . Tsui has no money." "Oh, don't talk that way." Dr. Kao was enjoying the conversa­ tion. "If you go to prison what will happen to your grandmother? Was it easy for her to bring you up?" He wiped his eyes as though he were actually touched. "Think of some way to repay the money. Give me an idea and I will go to Director Kuan. For example, pay back fifty dollars a month, and then you would be finished repaying in ten months ." "I cannot pay." "That makes it difficult." Dr. Kao rolled down the edges of his sleeves and put his hands in them, and knit his brows to think of some way for Chang Shun to manage. After thinking a long time he had an inspiration. "If you can't afford to pay, let Little Mrs . Tsui think of some way. She used the money, didn't she?" 3 37 ·

"What can she do?" Chang Shun wiped the sweat from his nose. Dr. Kao lowered his voice and asked in a sincere tone, " Is she your relative?" Chang Shun shook his head. "Do you owe her anything?" Chang Shun again shook his head. "All right, if you are not related to her and you owe her nothing, why should you carry the_ black cooking basin for her on your back?" Chang Shun said nothing. "Women"-Dr. Kao seemed to be thinking of a philosophical problem-"women have more ways than men to manage things. We men, no matter what we do, need capital. Women have it more convenient. With hands empty they can earn a living. How I envy them. Their faces, their hands, their bodies are all heaven­ born capital. If they are but willing to take one step forward, they will at once have money, and what they need to eat and to wear. Take Little Mrs. Tsui, for example. She is young. She has a good appearance. Why doesn't she think of some way to get happiness and enjoyment? I really don't understand." "What do you mean?" Chang Shun was losing patience. "I have no other meaning. I just want to help her pay back this debt." "How is she to pay the debt?" "My young brother, don't think ill of me. Your brain is not very active. That's because you have not been well educated. Yes, you are not educated." "Don't waste words . What do you want?" Chang Shun said angrily. "Good, we will come to the point." Dr. Kao rinsed his mouth with tea and spat on the ground . "If you or she can pay back the money at once, that is the best. If you cannot, go and tell her that I will help her. I can lend her another fifty dollars so she can make some gay clothes and curl her hair. Then I will find her some friends to play with, and I will share a half of what she makes. The money will not be mine, I will take it in for Director Kuan. The police will not trouble her because I will prepare things for her. If only she will work, her business will be all right, and I will go to her only to get my share of the profits, and this five hundred will never be mentioned again." "You want her to sell-" Chang Shun's voice failed him . "Oh, this is a most fashionable thing to do, nothing to be ashamed of. Look." Dr. Kao pointed to the little notebook. "Here are so many who have registered. We even have girl students . All 33 8

right, you go back and tell her and bring me the answer. If it is done this way we will all be friends. If not, then the two of you ' must bring out that five hundred dollars at once. I'm sorry to be a nuisance to you, my younger brother." Dr. Kao stood up. Chang Shun in a daze stood up also. At the door of the tea shop Dr. Kao patted Chang Shun's shoul­ der. "I await your answer. Take care of yourself." Then he walked toward the south. Chang Shun's head seemed filled with buzzing bumblebees. He stood outside the tea shop before he began to walk away. His feet seemed to weigh a thousand catties each. No, he could not go home. He could not face his grandmother and Little Mrs . Tsui, he had no face to see them. Then he thought of Sun the Seventh . He did not really respect Sun the Seventh highly, but after all Sun the Seventh was older than he, and perhaps he might have some good ideas. When he found Sun the Seventh, Chang Shun urgently told him the whole business. ''Hum ! I had not thought that the Kuan family was as rotten as this. No wonder there are 'dark doors' everywhere now-there is someone to sponsor them. His mother's --! I tell you, if the Japanese stay here forever, there will be no widows or daughters in the homes who will not be 'dark doors.' " "Don't take time to curse. Give me ideas." "If I should have an idea that would be something strange." Sun the Seventh was worried, and angry that he could think of nothing to help. "Even if you have no ideas you must think, think, think, and quickly." Sun the Seventh closed his shortsighted eyes and tried to think . After thinking for. a long time he suddenly opened his eyes . "Chang Shun, Chang Shun, why don't you marry her? Wouldn't that do?" "I?" Chang Shun turned suddenly red. "I marry her?" "Just so-marry her. Once she is your wife, see what they can do." "That five hundred dollars." "That." Sun the Seventh again closed his eyes. Finally he spoke again . "How's your business?" Chang Shun had been stupefied by his anger, he had forgotten his business. When Sun the Seventh reminded him, he thought of that thousand dollars . That thousand dollars, however, after all the expenses were deducted would probably be only five hundred dollars or even less. If it was all taken away to pay this "debt," how were they to live? And it was clear that the Kuan family was 3 39 ·

blackmailing him, and how could he take this money got through a thousand and ten thousand bitter efforts and give it to the Kuans . He thought a long time and said to Sun the Seventh, "You talk it over with my grandmother." He had no face to talk to his grand­ mother, and even more he had not the face to open his mouth and talk with his grandmother about marriage. "Shall I talk of the marriage also?" Chang Shun did not know how to answer. He had no objection to marrying Little Mrs. Tsui, even if he· did not understand the meaning and duties of marriage, but to save Little Mrs. Tsui, he felt that he should risk it . He nodded stupidly. Sun the Seventh felt h�s own importance. He had not only kept Chang Shun from being defeated in argument by Chang Shun, he had also become Chang Shun's matchmaker. This could not hap­ pen every day. Sun the Seventh went home. Chang Shun did not dare return . Slowly he walked toward the northern city wall. He sat down near the wall and thought the matter over and over again . The more he thought the more angry he became, but there was no use in anger. He must think of some good plan that would at once knock Big Red Pepper and Dr. Kao into Hades . With great difficulty he swallowed his anger. Thinking a long time, he decided that he would report them-he would report them. But where would he go to report them? And how would he write out the petition? Would making the petition have any effect? Suppose he sent in the report and the Japanese did not punish Big Red Pepper and Dr. Kao, but turned on him. He began to sweat again. He had not thought of all those things when as a youngster he had written on the walls with chalk, "So and so is a great big turtle," and so relieved himself of his anger. It had not mattered whether the "big turtle" had any effect on his enemy. He would today do the same and not care about the result. He stood up and walked back south. At the entrance to New Street he saw a fortuneteller, and spent fifty cents for the fortune­ teller to write the report for him. The fortuneteller saw that the report was serious, and probably would not be good for the one making it, but for the fifty cents income he did not warn Chang Shun. After he had written it, the fortuneteller asked, "Where are you going to send it?" "What would you suggest?" Chang Shun wanted the fortune­ teller to give him an idea.

"The City Government should be the right place," the fortune­ teller suggested. "Sounds all right to me." Taking up the report he rushed to the office of the City Govern­ ment. He was desperate. He did not care whether he was invoking good fortune or ill. When he had sent in the report he went back. He walked very slowly and began to doubt his wisdom. He began to regret when it was already too late to regret. All he could do now was to straighten his back and wait for the consequences-even if they were the very worst consequences . Sun the Seventh had very quickly dispatched his business, and before Chang Shun got back had already caused both the widows to be very much worried. Old Widow Ma had nothing against Little Mrs . Tsui, but it was not quite right to take in marriage for her grandson a little widow. A youth should marry a maid. And even if she were willing to accept this match, could the troubles be ended so simply? They would still have to find a way to pay the debt. As for Little Mrs. Tsui, she had not had time to think over care­ fully whether she should remarry or not. She thought only that her fate was a too bitter one : it was not enough that she was a widow, she must be a prostitute. She wanted to go to the Kuan home and fight them to the death. She was Little Tsui's wife and when cornered she could become wild and fight and die if she did not win . "All right, I owe them five hundred dollars-I will pay with my life. Won't that do? I have nothing except this life." Her brow knitted, she ran out. She forgot she was a widow. She was willing to die but she would not be a dark-gate prostitute. Sun the Seventh was frightened. Stopping her he called for Old Mrs. Ma. The two widows were silent and silently their tears fell. Their sorrows could not be spoken because these sorrows were ones that came from outside, that could not be avoided, that pressed down upon them. Old Mrs. Ma forgot her lifetime of caution and her widow's habit of thinking things out carefully before acting. She took Little Mrs . Tsui's hands. She felt only that if they could but live together and their relationship be closer, it would be a kind of, strength with which to resist the wrongs from without.

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Chapter Twenty-two

" vr

Rey Shuan was ill for more than ten days. With Tien Yiu dead the Chi family had not its usual appear­ ance. Although while alive he did not stay much at home, all felt that he was one of them. If a present of good tea leaves had been made to the family, or some special seasonal dish was cooked, they either sent some to him at once, or saved it for him. He treated them in the same way. If he bought fresh cherries or a few cakes, he would run home and give them to his old father. Then his father would deal them out to the family. Because Tien Yiu did not live at home, all were the more con­ cerned about him. Although it was not more than three or four Ii that separated them, that distance gave everyone a small space in their minds. They thought of him constantly and talked about him . And whenever he came back home all felt especially warm toward each other. If there should happen to be a small quarrel or dispute among them, he could turn them from their anger and make them happy again. He never put on airs. He was not one by nature to blow out his mustache and glare. When he came in the gate he did not make people feel "Father has come back." He was just a person who did not say much, but like a gentle and warm breeze made all feel warm and pleasantly exhilarated. In the hearts of Old Man Chi, Mrs . Tien Yiu, Rey Feng, and Yun Mei there was some superstition. If it had not been Tien Yiu but someone else in the family who had been drowned in the moat, they would have been sure to have been uneasy and to have been afraid that the ghost would come home to make trouble. But when they thought of his gentleness and sense of responsibility, they could only think of his benevolent face and could not imagine any possibility for him to become a terrifying ghost. After the funeral the Chi family was so quiet it was frightening. Rey Shuan was ill in bed. Old Man Chi also lay much of his time in bed saying nothing but his bearded lips moved all the time. Mrs . Tien Yiu became so thin she was not like herself : wearing a wide and thick mourning gown she said nothing, but came in and went out, helping her daughter-in-law with the work. She should have long since lain down to rest but she was unwilling to stop work. She knew that she would not live much longer, so she had 342 FTER HIS FATHER WAS BURIED,

to show Rey Shuan that she could still work and would not die for a long time. Rey Feng still wasted his days from morning to night with his worthless friends. No one remonstrated with him. The atmosphere of death sealed their lips . No one wanted to say anything, and certainly no one wanted to quarrel. The funeral was very simple yet they spent nearly double what they had planned. The estimate for a wedding or a funeral could never be exactly made. Rey Shuan was in debt . Old Man Chi had never allowed any of the family to buy on credit or to borrow money. Rey Shuan dared not let his grandfather know how much he had really spent for the funeral . Mrs. Tien Yiu knew but she did not say much or ask questions. Yun Mei knew everything and it was her responsibility to economize in the family expenses . Although it was of small use to save a copper or two in buying the oil, salt, and vinegar still doing so showed her sense of responsi­ bility, but when her hand tightened it was easy for the family to be dissatisfied with her, especially Rey Feng. His wine and cigarettes could not be cut. If less was bought he would make a fuss and threaten in a way that angered the old people. Yun Mei made a suggestion which she discussed with her mother­ in-law. Should she not move into Old Three's room and then they might rent out the south house and every month take in some rent money. It was difficult to find houses these days and although the south house was cold and dark they would be able to rent it immediately and at not too small a rental. Mrs. Tien Yiu agreed nor did Rey Shuan have any objection, but it hurt the Old Man Chi's heart. Although he was unhappy about it he did not set his will against it, and with tears in his eyes said to Fourth Master Li, "If you see a suitable family will you take it on your heart and say something. Those two south roomsFourth Master Li promised to help but also warned his old friend to tell no one else, because if the news got around there would be Japanese moving in at once. There were already over two hundred thousand Japanese living in Peiping. If they saw a crack they squeezed in. The Japanese had already started to build a New Peiping at the Eight Li Village outside the Gate of Impartiality in which the people of Peiping were to live and leave the city for the Japanese. It seemed as though the Japanese had taken perma­ nent hold of Peiping and would never let go. Fourth Master Li brought the answer to them the same day. There was a family who had just moved into the city from the 343 .

"

country, a middle-aged couple with two children, who wanted to come and live in the Chi courtyard. Old Man Chi wanted to see them before making a decision . He was cautious and would not let his rooms to just anyone. Fourth Master brought them over immediately. Their surname was Meng and they had no little land between the Western Hills and the Western Barracks where the Japanese were building an airfield . The Japanese had taken much of their land near the Western Barracks and they could find no one to work the land which was near the Western Hills though they had to pay the taxes. So they determined to come into the city to live. Mr. Meng was a sedate man with country manners . Mrs. Meng, a sturdy middle-aged woman, had lost one of her front teeth. The two children were boys, one fifteen and the other twelve, strong and vigorous country boys. Old Man Chi agreed to rent Mr. Meng the house and the Mengs moved in the next day. Although Old Man Chi was satisfied with his new tenants he could not help thinking all the more about his son . As he sat in the courtyard and saw the Meng family coming in and going out, moving their things, the old man murmured to himself, "Tien Yiu, Tien Yiu, if you come back don't go to the wrong room. Your south house has been rented out." Old Mrs. Ma, dressed in clean clothes and bashful, came to see Old Man Chi. She was not one constantly to visit from door to door so Old Man Chi guessed that she must have important busi­ ness about which she wished to consult him. Mrs . Tien Yiu came quickly over to help in the discussion. After talking about non­ essentials Old Mrs. Ma came to the point. She had come to ask Old Man Chi whether, if Chang Shun and Little Mrs. Tsui were to get married would everyone laugh at them. Old Man Chi was the oldest and most highly honored man in the Little Sheep Fold and if he felt that there was no fault to be picked with the affair, Old Mrs. Ma would have the courage to go immediately and make the arrangements . Old Man Chi had met a difficult problem. If he should be against it, he would be breaking up a marriage and the proverb said, "I would rather break down ten temples than to break up one marriage." On the other hand, if he were to agree, who could tell whether this marriage would be auspicious or not? Mrs . Tsui was a widow and that was not lucky. She was older than Chang Shun and that was not fitting. Even if they carried out the marriage the problem of Big Red Pepper's money would not be solved. The old man's little eyes seemed almost to close and he could 344

come to no decision . He could only say, "In times like these, in times like these, nothing is easy." Nor could Mrs . Tien Yiu think of any advice. She called Rey Shuan. Rey Shuan's illness had passed but he still looked far from well. When he understood the problem he thought awhile and said, "It seems to me, Old Mrs. Ma, that there would be none to laugh at this marriage. You, Chang Shun, and Little Mrs . Tsui are all respectable people and there would be none to talk scandal about you. The difficulty would be that if they got married it might stir up the Kuan family, and one could not tell but they might use some new way to make trouble." "Right, you are right." Old Man Chi sighed. "But if we don't-Little Mrs. Tsui would at once become-be­ come-" Old Mrs . Ma's speech was as clean as her gown; she was not willing to utter a single evil word . There was no sound in the room. It was as though the shadow of death had walked quietly in. It was just past five o'clock. The days were short and it already looked like twilight. Old Mrs . Ma was about to leave when Rey Feng, his head bathed in sweat, looking as if he were chased by a demon, ran in. He did not stop to greet anyone but sat immediately in a chair and breathed heavily with his mouth open . "What's happened?" they asked together. He waved his hands only and could not speak. They now saw that there were many bruises on his dry little face and there was a rent over a foot long in the back of his gown . Today was the first of the great charity performances . They were being given in a theatre near the Western Single Arch . The last piece on the program was Meydee' s The Lucky Match, and the last but one was Sunset Wen's The Strange Double Reunion. The Kuan family had been as busy as though the sky were about to fall and the earth turn over. The costume was tried on five times and altered five times . She had a tailor in the house just to wait on her. Dr. Kao very busily borrowed the headdress for her and hunted up the right specialist in hairdressing and make-up. Big Red Pepper was busy "collecting" baskets of flowers for her. She wanted to make sure that there would be eight pairs of baskets to go up the aisle and be put on the stage as her daughter came on . Kuan the Morning Lotus was even more busy. He was finding for his daugh­ ter the best musicians to beat the drums and the gongs . He was also getting reporters to take pictures of Meydee both in costume and in her ordinary clothes, so that her photograph would appear 34 5

in the newspapers and magazines before the event. He had also to write prose essays so that Lan the Eastern Sun could send them to all the newspapers that they might issue a special edition for Miss Meydee. Three days before the show the tickets were all sold . The fourth and fifth rows of the orchestra had been reserved for the Japanese. The first, second, and third rows had been reserved by the friends of Meydee and Sunset. The black-market price for tickets had been three to five times the original price. Sunset's friends were not happy when they saw that she was to go on the stage ahead of Meydee. They planned to walk out when Meydee came on the stage and so make her lose face. When Meydee' s crowd of oily­ headed and smooth-faced little devils heard of this, they decided to hiss and boo Sunset with all their might as a counterattack. Fortunately the wind blew to the ears of Morning Lotus and he quickly invited the ringleaders of both factions to a party where they were entertained personally by both Sunset and Meydee. He had also invited a worthless Japanese to come and keep order. So they all shook hands and agreed to an armistice. Rey Feng had been determined to see this exciting event. He had friends among the secret police who had been placed in all parts of the theatre because so many important Japanese were to be there. Rey Feng was outside the theatre by ten in the morning. His mouth hung open and his heart beat fast. His two eyes searched east and searched west. Seeing a friend he went over quickly, "Old Yao, take me in with you ." After a while he met another friend, "Old Chen, don't forget me." He had approached more than ten and was still not assured of a chance to get in and was still looking to the east and to the west to try more people. He saw the ticket collectors, the police and the soldiers, and the chests containing the costumes, all arrive. His heart beat more quickly. His mouth hung open wider. He again begged his friends and they said to him impatiently, "You'll not be left out-it's still early. What are you stewing over?" By eleven o'clock he was almost crazy with suspense. He seized a friend and begged to be taken in immediately. The pulse on his temple was beating and the sweat stood out on his nose. His friend said, 'There is no seat for you." He said, "Ah, ah," to indicate that he was willing to stand. He went in . He sat in the best seat and looked at the empty stage and empty theatre and was supremely happy. Eventually the musicians tuned up. Rey Feng opened his mouth with the first throb of the drum. He stretched his neck to see how 346

they beat the drums and how they beat the gongs. His body swayed to their time and iri his mind he floated on sweet and rhythmic waves. After a long wait the curtain raiser-The Gods In Heaven Be­ stowing B l essings came on. Rey Feng's neck stretched even further. The bearer of the ticket for the seat arrived, and in a trance, his eyes fixed on the stage, Rey Feng moved to another seat. After a time the owner of that seat also arrived, and Rey Feng again changed · his seat. He did not in the least feel embarrassed. His entire attention was on the stage. It was as if he were intoxi­ cated. When the opera, The Strange Double Reunion, was about to start, he realized that he was standing. The J apanese came. Rey Feng still looked toward the stage and did not look to see which important J apanese had come. While the musicians were changing it seemed that he saw Mr. Chien pass by him, but he did not bother to greet him. Little Wen came onto the stage, sat down, and tuned his flute. Rey Feng was still more entranced . He liked Little Wen, admired him. Rey Feng also saw Eastern Sun come out onto the stage and go back again. He should hate Eastern Sun but his heart did not change beat. It was more important to see the show. Fat Chrysanthemum and a beautiful young lady carried some flowers and laid them on the stage. His heart was slightly disturbed but he only swallowed once and put her aside. Morning Lotus behind the scenes, pushed the curtain over a little and put his head through . Rey Feng envied Morning Lotus. Although Sunset's fans were many, she had real ability and did not depend entirely on them for applause. On the contrary, after the first burst of applause, the whole theatre was unusually quiet. Her elegance, dignity, composure, and gestures were such that peo­ ple were voluntarily silent to listen and to watch . Her eyes seemed to look at each person in the house so that everyone was pleased, and it also made everyone respect and admire her. Even those who came especially to applaud her, dared not shout their applause ex­ cept at the suitable places, for if they shouted too often it would not be showing respect and would annoy her. She was delicate and slender and yet as active and radiant as though there was some magic power in her which made people see her youth and beauty and at the same time feel the warmth and happiness of youth in their own hearts . She dominated the whole theatre without making any effort. Little Wen seemed also to have forgotten himself. He leaned -

34 7

forward slightly with the flute held against his mouth, his eyes fixed on Sunset, and each note came out round and true. In the two rows of Japanese was an officer who was drunk. He had already been asleep but the eyes which he occasionally opened seemed to see a beautiful girl moving about, and when he shut his eyes he seemed to shut the beautiful girl into them . When a J apa­ nese officer sees a woman he does not think of anything but the "use of women." He now opened his eyes again and rubbed them . He saw Sunset clearly and his drunken eyes followed her but were never able to meet her eyes. He became angry. He was an officer of the Great Japanese Army, a conqueror of China; he should have the privilege of trampling underfoot any Chinese girl . He wanted to drag that girl off the stage at once, take off her clothes, and demonstrate the prowess of Japanese officers . But Sunset never looked at him. He half rose and hissed her. She still paid no at­ tention to him. He whipped out his revolver. The revolver sounded. Sunset staggered twice. She tried to cover her breast with her hands but before her hands reached her breast she had fallen on the stage. The people in the orchestra and in the balcony shouted and rushed out, falling and rolling like a human tide. Rey Feng's mouth was open when he was knocked down . He rolled, he crawled; shoes and boots were on his body, on his hands, on his head. He stood up and fell again. He rolled and shouted, swinging his fists, and sometimes his eyes would be covered by someone's clothes and sometimes by someone's leg. Occasionally he saw a pillar. He lost his sense of direction and could not distinguish which were his own legs and which were those of others. He rolled out with the human tide. The Japanese officers stood up. They all took out their revolvers and pointed them in every direction in the theater. Peach Blossom ran out from backstage. She had planned that when Meydee should come on the stage she would carry out her plan, but now her plan was ruined . She forgot everything and thought only of caring for Sunset. A bullet passed by her ear as she came out. Crouching she crawled forward to Sunset. Little Wen threw down his flute and with the same motion picked up a chair. As though possessed of an evil spirit, with one leap he was off the stage and had smashed the chair on the head of the drunk murderer. Several revolvers were placed against Little Wen's chest. He smiled and turned his head and looked at Sunset. "Sunset die; it doesn't matter."

There were many secret service men backstage. Of the actors, the extras, and the musicians, not one was able to escape. Meydee was already in costume and clutched Dr. Kao' s hand with one of hers and her father's with the other. There was an old man in the balcony. His toothless mouth moved as if to smile. His eyes were shining as if an inspiration had just come to him . He knew that Peach Blossom was still on the stage and that Little Wen was still in the orchestra, but he could not let a few friends delay him. In his eyes were only the Japanese, and they should die. He flung his hand grenade. The next day the limping poet bought a newspaper. Sitting in a tea shop he read it with great care. "The Death of the Actress." "The Famous Amateur Actress and the Famous Musician, Sunset and Her Husband, of This City : Secretly connected with the traitors, secretly hiding weapons at the charity performance in order to assassinate an officer of the Great Imperial Army. The Wen couple were shot to death right at the place. One of Sunset's women friends was killed also by mistake." The old man's eyes looked at the newspaper but what he really saw was Little Wen, Sunset, and Peach Blossom alive. The old man had not known the Wen couple well but felt that they were lovable. He especially loved Little Wen . Little Wen was not only a talented musician but he was also a hero. He had dared to use a chair to smash the enemy's head. And as for Peach Blossom : he not only loved her, he felt that he had failed her. So intelligent and brave a little woman to die at his hands . He continued to read and saw, "No officer of the Imperial Army was hurt." The old man read this sentence again and smiled. "Heng, no one hurt! Really !" He continued to read, "At the time of the assassination, the order in the audience was very good. There were only two or three of the very old and very young slightly hurt." The old man nodded his head in admiration for the creative talent of the reporters. "All those backstage were sent to the quarters of the Commander-in-Chief for investigation. Those without sus­ picion will be set free in a short time." He knew that ten, eight, perhaps twenty, would never come out again. He was very unhappy, but he could only tell himself, "It had to be this way. This is war. Death, death, only death can produce hatred, and only those who know hatred know vengeance." The old man drank his hot water and left the tea shop, and walked slowly toward the east city. He was going to the family cemetery to tell his wife and his son, "Sleep in peace. I have avenged you-a little." 349

'TN

Chapter Twenty-three

THE LITTLE SHEEP FOLD the eyes of all gleamed, in the hearts " of all were blossoms, on the faces of all were smiles. They wanted to shout, to dance madly, to drink, to have a celebration party. Fang the Sixth, of the Black Mole, had become the most important person . All surrounded him, pulled at his coat and his sleeves, and begged him to tell them the story-tell them about the sound of guns in the theatre, about the dying, the chair, the bomb, the confusion, the wounded and the dead. Those who had already heard the story asked him to tell it again, and those who had not heard were unwilling to leave him. He was an angel bringing them good tidings. Fang the Sixth had before this already become an "important" man .. In ability as a fast-talk-comedian he was but second or third rate, but · the fall of Peiping had brought him luck. A friend of his who had a position in the New People's League had secured for him the opportunity to broadcast. The friend had said to him, "The Japanese believe in the Four Books of Confucian classics be­ cause they are ancient. If you use quotations from the Four Books every time you tell a story the Japanese will always use you to make the broadcasts, and you can become a first-class storyteller." So Fang the Sixth had begun to study the classics and the J apa­ nese liked him. He even joined the Writers' Association and be­ came one of the intelligentsia. He had been one of the ushers at the charity performance and had seen everything that happened though he himself was not hurt. He had ability in telling stories and he liked to tell stories . He did not suppress anything for the Japanese-although he ate their food he had not sold his soul to them. He was very sad about the death of the Little Wen couple. Although he did not belong to the same profession as they, still they and he were all professional enter­ tainers and he could not help feeling unhappy. All were grieved at the death of the Little Wen couple and felt a sympathetic communion with them. They even went to house Number Six and looking through the window felt that even the tables and chairs were sacred. . But what most excited them was that Meydee, still in costume, had been taken away by the police, and that Morning Lotus and Dr. Kao had also been arrested. They had also seen Big Red Pepper; her hat with the pheasant's 3 50

feather askew on her head and only half of the feather left, her fox fur coat wet down the front as though a pot of tea had been poured on it. Her air and manner were still pretentious, which made it all the more ludicrous . Without Dr. Kao to escort her, nor Meydee following, nor Morning Lotus walking behind to carry the cape; alone and in her stocking feet-like a she-devil newly driven out by the great demon himself-limping, she walked into Num­ ber Three. Gheng Chang Shun could not keep his mind on his work and also joined the crowd to hear Fang the Sixth tell his story. It seemed as if Sun the Seventh's shortsighted eyes were no longer short­ sighted but could see through to the scene itself. It seemed as though after hearing Fang the Sixth's story he had seen Morning Lotus and Dr. Kao being forced to drink kerosene in the prison and having their teeth knocked out. He was happy. He insisted on inviting Chang Shun to a drink of wine. Chang Shun had not yet mastered the art of drinking but Sun the Seventh was very de­ termined . "I want to drink the wine of congratulation to your wedded happiness . Can you refuse that?" He went to Old Mrs. Ma and said, "Honorable Lady, tell Chang Shun he must drink a cup of wine, wine of congratulation." "What congratulations?" the old lady asked. Sun the Seventh laughed aloud. "Old Lady, they-" he pointed to the Kuans' house-"were all arrested by the Japanese. Should we not quickly get our business settled?" Old Mrs. Ma understood what Sun the Seventh meant but she still felt uneasy. "They have good connections. Suppose they should come out again in a day or so." "Na-even so they would not dare to begin bullying us again at once." Old Mrs. Ma did not say anything more but calculated in her mind. The grandson should get married-that had to happen sooner or later-so why not now. Although Little Mrs. Tsui was a widow, she was capable and could wash, do the housework, and endure hardship, and also her temperament and appearance were both not bad. Furthermore, Little Mrs. Tsui knew of the sugges­ tion and if they did not mention the matter again would she not feel badly? All right, one can but take matters as they come. She nodded to Sun the Seventh. A very distant relative of Little Wen's came and took away all his things. This, the neighbors felt was unjust. They wanted to ask whether the bodies of Little Wen and his wife had been buried, and what proof had they to show their right to take the things 3 51

away. Fourth Master Li, Fang the Sixth, Sun the Seventh came over and stopped the distant relative and made him promise to buy the coffins. But they could not find the bodies. The Japanese had already thrown them outside the city to feed the wild dogs. The Japanese were not even generous to the dead. Fourth Master Li had nothing more to say and all he could do was to watch with anger as they carried away the Little Wens' goods. Rey Feng seeing that Fang the Sixth was getting all the glory wanted also to come out and tell what he had seen but Old Man Chi stopped him. "Don't go out. Your face is black and blue. What if a detective should see you? Would he not say that you were one of the culprits? Sit here and be a good boy." So all Rey Feng could do was to sit at home and tell his sister-in-law and the children about what he had seen in the theatre. He felt that he had been very adventurous . Big Red Pepper was very pleased that Peach Blossom was dead. Peach Blossom's body had been thrown outside the city along with those of the Little Wens, and Big Red Pepper thought this the most suitable end for her. She determined not to allow anyone to give Peach Blossom a funeral, both to appease her own hatred and to avoid suspicion. It would be terrible if the Japanese should find out that Peach Blossom was from the Kuan family. She com­ manded Kaodee and the men and women servants not to tell any­ one outside that the one who had died by the side of Sunset was Peach Blossom. They were to say that Peach Blossom had stolen some gold and silver ornaments and run away. She even went to Sergeant Pai and made such a report. When she had settled Peach Blossom, Big Red Pepper went everywhere trying to get Morning Lotus, Meydee, and Dr. Kao released . She went to Lan the Eastern Sun. There was a stroke against Eastern Sun because of the troubles at the charity performances. This demerit made him imagine that the next step would be his discharge and he was afraid and worried. He must find a way to arrest the assassins and use that merit to redeem his demerit. When he saw Big Red Pepper he immediately had an idea. Good, he would try out his sword on the Kuan family. He felt that undoubt­ edly Peach Blossom had had something to do with the catastrophe. He must hold onto the three in prison and say that the Kuans had wanted to assassinate the officials of the Imperial Army. Big Red Pepper was really worried. Meydee was the pearl in her palm and Dr. Kao was a kind of lover. She must quickly get them 3 52

out. She was not concerned about Morning Lotus but if she was to get Meydee and Dr. Kao out, she would have to get her husband out also. Although she was worried and unhappy, when she saw Eastern Sun she swaggered as though she had nothing on her mind, not even something the size of a bean. She called in a loud voice, "Eastern Sun, what's the news?" Eastern Sun's face twitched steadily and he decided not to answer her. Seeing that Eastern Sun would not say anything Big Red Pepper chatted with Chrysanthemum. Since Chrysanthemum was fat there was more of her to be hurt and she had many bruises though noth­ ing serious. She had already showed her temper several times to Eastern Sun. The wife of a department head to be rolled in the dust! Her "spiritual" hurt was greater than her physical. Chrysan­ themum was glad to chat with Big Red Pepper but today Big Red Pepper was not prepared to chat idly for she must go out to seek the right connections. Fat Chrysanthemum wanted to go with her as she was not happy to stay at home, and Big Red Pepper also wanted Chrysanthemum to accompany her for two "big faces" to­ gether would be more effective than one. So Chrysanthemum began to rub ointment on her bruises preparatory to going out with Big Red Pepper on the expedition. Eastern Sun stopped Chrysanthemum without any explanation; he just would not allow her to go out. Chrysanthemum's fat face became as red as a lobster, "Why, why?" she asked angrily. Eastern Sun made no sound but continued to bite his nails. As Chrysanthemum was importunate he at last answered, "I will not allow you to go out." Big Red Pepper saw that Eastern Sun would not allow Chrysan­ themum to go out with her. She was displeased but still main­ tained her woman-of-the-world manner. She forced herself to smile and said, "All right, I can go alone." Chrysanthemum still insisted, however, on going with her guest. Eastern Sun who had never known what good manners were now told her the truth . "I will not allow you to go out with her." Big Red Pepper's face flushed and the freckles looked like little grapes-greyish purple. "Ha, Eastern Sun, you see that things have gone a bit wrong with me and you want to avoid me! I tell you, this old lady will not let herself be stopped by such a small thing. I was blind when I took you as my friend. Stretch out your hand and count on your fingers how many meals of mine you have eaten, how many cups of wine and of coffee you have drunk. If I had 353

fed those things to a dog he would wag his tail when he saw me." Big Red Pepper felt that she was very magnanimous, but as she began to scold she somehow could not find any magnanimous words and could only think of food and coffee. Eastern Sun was confident that he had a very rich imagination and would surely be able to find some great and shining language with which to counterattack but all he could think of was, "I have also bought things for you." "That's right, you bought a bag of peanuts and two dozen per­ simmons. I tell you, this old lady knows what kind of a Thing you are." Big Red Pepper seized her handbag, smiled coldly, and swag­ gered out. Fat Chrysanthemum was very much displeased with Eastern Sun's treatment of Big Red Pepper. She felt that Big Red Pepper was at least more like a human being than Eastern Sun and a bit more lovable. She did not, however, want to open hostilities again with Eastern Sun over Big Red Pepper, but if she did not open fire, she would lose some of her dignity. All she could do was to stiffen her face and stand there. Eastern Sun did not want to tell Chrysanthemum what was in his heart but to avoid quarreling with his wife, he decided to let out a bit of his plan . "I tell you, I want to fight her. If I can knock her down it will be to my advantage." Then using the most concise language-something like his poetry-he told her his plan. Fat Chrysanthemum did not entirely agree with her husband at first because, after all, Big Red Pepper was her friend. But after thinking it over she accepted Eastern Sun's ideas. Good, if Big Red Pepper were brought low she would herself become the Number One woman of Peiping. Would that not be good? Why should she always follow Big Red Pepper and always sit on the second chair. She smiled. She accepted Eastern Sun's plans and she was willing to help him carry them out. Eastern Sun's green face showed signs of a smile. The husband and wife drew closer and whispered. They must gq and report that Peach Blossom was from the Kuan family so the Japanese would suspect the Kuans . They must then from all sides manipulate the . evidence so as to put Big Red Pepper in the place of death. Even . if she did not die they wanted at least to take away her post as Director of the Bureau. Eastern Sun said, "Yes, if we can only get this affair to carry their label we can go straight ahead. My position will be secure. And as for you, you should go out and see all the people and take over the positioq of Director of the Bureau." Fat Chrysanthemum's eyes became bright. She had not thought that 3 54

Eastern Sun had so many ideas. Besides the high position she saw great piles of dollar bills blowing toward her like the sand in a dust storm. If she could but be the Director of the Bureau for the In­ spection of Prostitutes for one or two years the money to support the latter half of her life would not be a problem. Once she got that position she would be a free woman. Lan the Eastern Sun would have no more control over her. She kissed his green face. She really loved him today. When this business was completed she would stamp him underfoot as she would stamp on a worm. She at once put on her best clothes and prepared to go out and "move around." She could no longer give in to her laziness. She must carry her fat flesh around and seek that fat position. That fat position once in her hand she would give in many fold to her laziness. Even washing her face would be done by a maid. That would be indeed a blessed state. Rey Shuan heard the story of what had happened in the theatre and he felt that he had failed Peach Blossom. Mr. Chien had asked him to watch over her but he had done nothing. Apart from this sense of failure the affair did not excite him. He knew that the death of the Little Wen couple was unjust and tragic but was not the death of his own father also tragic? If he did not avenge the death of his father how could he feel the injustice to others? But there was one event that made him somewhat happy : the two Japanese men in Number One were both drafted and taken away. Rey Shuan felt that this was more significant than the arrest of Morning Lotus and Meydee. That the Kuan father and daughter should be in prison seemed to him a farce only, but that the men of Number One had been taken away and become food for the guns indicated that the invader must incessantly and in quantity use up capital and have the blood of its citizens flow in the battle field. Following the death and wounds of the soldiers would come the ruin of their families . The invasion brought wealth to the high officers only and to the capitalists but the people paid with their lives and their families. He had disliked those two men but today he felt pity for them. They had brought their families and their property to China and now they themselves would die here and their women return home carrying the little boxes of the ashes of their men in their arms . He saw the two doll-like women with the two mischievous boys come out to see off those two men who had now joined the army. When he saw them he immediately thought of the lines in Tu Fu's poem : "Pity the bones on the banks of the Wu Ting River, Deep 355

in the chambers the women still dream of their men !" and he also thought of the line : "When one general is victorious ten thousand bones bleach." But he forced himself to put aside this sublime and humane poem and thought of his father. He said to himself, "This is war. Those who dare not kill are killed." The old Japanese woman in Number One came out last. She bowed deeply to the two young men and waited until they had gone away. When she lifted her head she saw Rey Shuan and bowed again. Then she stood up straight and walked quickly toward Rey Shuan and her walk had changed and was not like that of a Japanese woman. She held herself straight, held up her head and was not as usual bent and curled over. There was a smile on her face as if with the two young men gone away she had her freedom and could smile freely. "Good morning." She spoke in English . "May I say a few words to you?" Her English was fluent and accurate, not like that usually spoken by the Japanese. Rey Shuan stood still. "I have long thought of talking with you but there has been no opportunity. Today-" she pointed to the entrance of the Little Sheep Fold-"they have gone, and so-" Her speech and manner were like those of a Westerner, especially the way in which she pointed-she did not use her second finger but used her thumb. Rey Shuan thought that all Japanese were spies and that the old woman knew he spoke English was evidence. He thought that he would say a few courteous words and leave her. The old woman seemed to have guessed what was in his mind and smiled with dignity. "Don't suspect me. I am not an ordinary Japanese. I was born in Canada and brought up in the United States. Then I went with my father to London when he went on business. I have seen the world. I know the mistakes the Japanese are making. Those two young men are my nephews. Their business and their capital is mine but I am their slave. I have no son and am not able to manage the business. My youth was spent in dancing and music. I went to the theatre and skated, rode horseback and swam; and now my money can buy only the deep bows I must make to them. I am forced to kneel and offer them food and tea." Rey Shuan still dared not say anything. He knew that the Japa­ nese used many ways to spy. The old woman came closer to him and lowered her voice. "I have long thought of talking with you. Of all the people in this place, you have the best character and the best thoughts . I can see that. I know that you must be careful and that you do not want to 3 56

talk with me but if I can only say what I want to say to one who understands, that will be enough . I am a Japanese, but when I speak in Japanese I never speak of what is in my heart. What I say could be understood perhaps by one out of a thousand J apa­ nese." She spoke very rapidly and as though the words had been committed to memory. "All that has happened to you"-she pointed in a semicircle to Number Three, Number Five, Number Six, and Number Four­ "I know. You know of course what we Japanese have done in Peiping. I can only tell you one word of truth : the Japanese will be defeated. There is no other Japanese who dares say this. In a sense I am not a Japanese. I cannot because of my nationality for­ get mankind and the world. Of course I do not want all the Japa­ nese to be killed for their crimes . I only hope that they will repent because of their defeat and use their intelligence and c9urage in a direction that will benefit humankind. I am not making prophe­ cies. My judgment comes from what I know about the world and what I know about the Japanese. I have seen that you are always unhappy. I would like to make you happier. Don't worry. Don't be despondent. Your enemies will sooner or later be defeated. As you see, my family is already defeated . Two have died already. Now two more are added . They go to war, they die. I know that you cannot easily trust me but that doesn't matter. I know that you must be thinking, 'If you should report me, I will lose my head also,' like that rickshaw boy." She pointed to Number Four. "Don't think I'm crazy . Don't think that I am trying to get your favor. I am a Japanese and will always be a Japanese. I do not hope for any special allowance to be made for me. I want only to be able to speak out and say what I think . If the truth is not spoken out it is like an illness in the heart. Well, if you don't suspect me, let us be friends-friends above the relations between China and Japan . If you do not want to make friends with me, it does not matter. Today you have given me an opportunity to say what is on my heart and I thank you for it." When she had finished she did not wait for Rey Shuan to say anything but began slowly to walk away. Her back was again bent and again she looked like an old Japanese woman who was ready at any moment to bow.

Chapter Twenty-four

l Little Mrs. Tsuithewere Chinese New Year when Chang Shun and married. The wedding was very simple. T wAS ALMOST

Sun the Seventh had persuaded Mrs. Liu, the wife of the shed3 57

builder, to be the other matchmaker with him so Little Mrs . Tsui could enter the chair from Mrs. Lui's court. A worn sedan chair and four or five musicians made a trip down the main street and came back again. The wedding chamber was Old Mrs. Ma's room, she herself having moved to Little Mrs. Tsui's room. According to old traditions, when a widow was married the wedding should be in the night because for a widow to marry was not considered re­ spectable. It should not take place under the blue sky and the bright sun . And when the sedan chair reached the gate a string of firecrackers should be set off and inside the threshold there should be a charcoal brazier over which she must step. If the firecrackers were successful in driving away the spirit of her former husband the brazier would be supplementary only for driving away all the evil spirits. According to Old Mrs. Ma these rules should all be observed, both to drive away all evil and to show that a remarried woman was not of much consequence. She herself, for instance, had with rigid respectability been a widow with a widow's full dignity and grace and had not changed her estate. There was, however, the continuous semimartial law after dark and so it was not easy to have a wedding in the night. Firecrackers had not been allowed for a long time, because the Japanese feared the sound so like machine-gun fire. And since they could not have the firecrackers they might as well do without the brazier. This was Sun the Seventh's decision . "Old Mrs. Ma, we might as well not have the brazier. Why should we make Little Mrs . Tsui more unhappy?" Even with these concessions, Little Mrs . Tsui wept until she seemed made of tears. She thought of Little Tsui and she thought of her own miseries. She had lost her right to herself; and some­ thing much more formidable than Sun the Seventh, than Chang Shun, than Old Mrs. Ma, pushed her aside, made her change her surname, change her husband, change everything. Chang Shun' s big head buzzed. He did not know whether it would be better to weep or to smile. Wearing the new blue cotton­ cloth long gown and a black satin short coat, borrowed from the Chi family, he sat uneasily or stood awkwardly. To walk back and forth would be silly. In his heart he calculated the profit on the thousand soldiers' uniforms he had delivered. Outside the cap­ ital for buying the goods and John Ting's many deductions, he had left only about four hundred dollars. This was his entire wealth and now he was adding another mouth to feed. Once married he was an adult and must support his grandmother and wife. But how 3 58

·

long would four hundred dollars last? After his marriage what kind of business would he do? He thought of Rey Shuan's expectations for him and his own desire to become a soldier. But today, like a fool, he was getting married and tying himself forever to the home. Friends like Fourth Master Li and Fourth Mistress, Rey Shuan, Sun the Seventh, Mrs. Liu and all the others came to congratulate him. The lucky words said to him seemed sincere but also satirical. His face flushed and paled by turns and his nasal tones became even heavier and did not sound pleasant even to himself. Among the friends who came to celebrate, the most active and the greatest nuisance was Rey Feng. Chang Shun could never forget that scene · in the Commission of Education and had not thought that Rey Feng would have the face to come. But Rey Feng did not seem to remember past events . He knew that as a guest in the house no one would drive him out so he was pleased to come and eat and drink. Since he was still wearing mourning his family had forbidden him to go to make congratulations. He promised his mother that he would only take the wedding gift and standing outside the gate would place it in the hands of Old Mrs. Ma or Chang Shun and then go back home. But he took off his mourning coat and went in the gate, and into the door of the Ma family home as though all the breezes of spring were blowing in his face. As soon as he entered the gate he began to jest with Chang Shun and his mouth knew no discretion . From time to time Chang Shun's face burned even to his ears . When it was time to eat, Rey Feng took the seat of honor. He felt that he only among the guests had been a section head so he should sit in the seat of honor. Sun the Seventh was annoyed : he was the chief matchmaker and should sit in the place of honor. He took up the wine beaker and called pointedly, "Section Head Chi, let's each drink six cups ." Fourth Master Li tried to · confiscate the beaker but Sun the Seventh would not let him. "Fourth Master, you need not be responsible. I must match drinking with Section Head Chi." Rey Feng's face shone. He felt that Sun the Seventh admired him. "Let's play the finger game. I will win, I am sure, five times out of six. Come, stretch out your hand." "I will not play the finger game. We match six cups ." Rey Feng knew that if he drank six cups in succession he would roll under the table. "No, I won't do that. Wedding wine must be drunk in a gayer way." Sun the Seventh did not answer. Taking up his cup he drank 3 59

three full cups in quick succession and then filled up the cups again . "Drink, drink these three-there will be another three." "No, I won't drink," Rey Feng said with a smile. "Drink, Section Head Chi." The veins in Sun the Seventh's temples beat. "This is wedding wine. Haven't you lost your wife? Drink more cups so you can marry another." Fourth Master Li quickly interfered and stopped Sun the Sev­ enth. "Sit down. You are not to talk nonsense." And then he said to Rey Feng, "Old Second, pay no attention to him, he is already drunk." All thought that Rey Feng would certainly leave and hoped that he would do so, but he sat and did not move. He wanted to finish the meal; he could not, because of a few unpleasant words, sacrifice the wine and food. At this moment of embarrassment Dr. Kao walked in. Chang Shun's lips began to tremble. Big Red Pepper had real ability. After running around for sev­ eral days she got Morning Lotus, Dr. Kao, and Meydee out of prison. They had none of them suffered much discomfort except that of being half-starved for several days. They were not used to eating corn bread and drinking water. In the beginning they had refused to eat at all. Afterwards they had had to eat but could not feel satisfied. Meydee, all these days-as she had no other clothes to change to-had worn her costume. She had not washed even her face for several days and her body itched. She made eyes at everyone hop­ ing they would give her water but with no result. She had begun to worry so much that she wept without ceasing. She had hoped that her men friends would come to see her, but no one came. Morning Lotus was really frightened. He wondered if he was to feel the beheading sword. Sitting in the small cell he reviewed his past but could find no fault in himself. In a hushed voice he said to the Great Jade Emperor, "When I had to give presents I was not slower than the others . When I had to entertain I provided the best cigarettes, the best wine and food and tea. I am a good husband to my wife and my concubine. I am a good father to my daughters. I have been generous to my friends . And I worship the Japanese. So-Great Jade Emperor, why do you treat me this way?" He prayed sincerely. He was afraid of death. He was afraid of torture. He could not sleep at night and could only doze off from time to time. The one who suffered most was Dr. Kao. He had the craving for 3 60

opium and could get none. In two or three hours after his arrest the craving was more than he could bear. His nose ran in long streams. He could not yawn, he could not think, he could only sit with his head hanging and wait for death . Big Red Pepper went to take them home. When Meydee saw her mother she wept aloud . Morning Lotus shed tears. Dr. Kao was carried out by two men. When they reached home the first thing Meydee did was to take a bath. After her bath she ate five or six pieces of cake one after the other, and after eating rubbed her stomach and said to Kaodee, "This time has been punishment enough for me. After this I will not sing opera or skate. If further trouble should come up I would certainly die in the prison ." She asked Kaodee to t�ach her to knit. "Sister teach me. From now on I will not be naughty any more." She put much affection into the word "sister" as if she were really beginning to recognize her mistakes and to start anew. Big Red Pepper sat on the sofa with a great air and smoked a cigarette. "Hum ! It seems that you all suffered, but it would have been strange if you had got out without me. I have run my legs thin for you yet you do not seem able to say 'Thank you.' " Morning Lotus took over the conversation. "If it were not for you, Director, we should have been shut there for at least another half month. Even without torture, being shut in prison for another half month, I surely would have died. Imprisonment is no joke." "Hum, so you have realized it, have you? In the past you loved your little wife. Only when you were in prison did you begin to think of your real wife. What kind of a plaything are you?" "Yo," Meydee suddenly remembered, "where is Peach Blossom?" Morning Lotus also wanted to ask and opened his mouth but shut it again. "She-" Big Red Pepper sneered. 'Tm sorry-she's dead." "What?" Morning Lotus was startled. "Dead !" Meydee found it impossible to believe. "She, Sunset, and Little Wen are all dead. Let me tell you, this death of Peach Blossom makes our prospects better. You have me and if you listen to me we will all have fortune for all our days . If you do not listen to me, you will one of these days be taken to prison again." Morning Lotus did not hear what she said. Sitting in a chair he began to weep quietly. Meydee also was in tears. This weeping made Big Red Pepper's temper rise higher. "Stop crying-don't let me see any of you weeping for that stinking 36i

woman . She should have died long ago. I tell you, no one is to say outside these walls that she ever belonged to this family. I have already reported that she stole gold and silver jewelry and ran away. Have you heard? We must all tell the same story. It will not do if one talks to the west and one to east, slapping our own mouths." Morning Lotus stood up slowly and said to Big Red Pepper, "This will not do." His voice trembled but he was determined. "Won't do? What won't do?" "For good or bad she was one of us. Whatever you say I must give her a good funeral. She was with me many years." Peach Blos­ som had been his concubine and there was no one in the family to take her plac e. Big Red Pepper also stood up. Lightning flashed from her eyes and thunder rolled from her mouth. "What will you do? Make trouble? All right, let's see who wins." Morning Lotus shouted, "I tell you that it will not do to treat Peach Blossom this way. Fight, curse, kill-I'll keep you company today." Big Red Pepper's hands began to tremble. Morning Lotus was rebelling and she could not bear it. If she gave in this time he would probably get another loose woman. "You dare to glare at me. Good for you. I was blind, I was befuddled when I saved you from prison . How wonderful it would have been if you had died in prison ! " "You curse me." Morning Lotus ground his teeth . "You cannot curse me to death. I will give Peach Blossom a funeral and no one can stop me." "I can stop you." Big Red Pepper patted her breast. "Motlier, Peach Blossom is dead. Why should you still hate her." "Oh-you are also on her side. Is there a place in this for you to talk? You were arrested still wearing your costume. You pretend to be still a 'thousand-gold virgin.' You think you are respectable. I know that you eat what I provide, drink what I get for you. When you are in trouble I save you . But you all stand together to oppose me. Good, you are all good . Only I am nothing." Big Red Pepper slapped her own face. She did not hurt herself but made a big noise. "Well, if you won't allow me to open my mouth I'll go out and amuse myself." Meydee had forgotten that she had started a new life. As she spoke she started out. "Come back!" Big Red Pepper stamped her foot. "See you again, Father." Meydee ran out. 3 62

Seeing that she had been unable to stop Meydee, Big Red Pep­ per became even angrier. She turned to Morning Lotus, "And what about you?" "I? I'm going to find the body." "It has been eaten by the dogs long since. Go, go-if you dare to go out and if I allow you to come back-I was begotten by a rabbit!" Dr. Kao, in the inner room, had by this time smoked six or seven pipes of opium. He had thought to take a nap but when he heard the quarreling he came out. As soon as he lifted the curtain he saw that the Kuan couple stood facing each other across the table, glaring like two fighting cocks. Dr. Kao put his head between them. "Old Husband and Old Wife, if there is something to be talked over, say the words slowly. Sit down both of you." Big Red Pepper sat down and suddenly her tears flowed. After all the difficulties and after hoping for Peach Blossom's death for such a long time, she had thought that since it had at last happened they could live peacefully together. Who would have thought Morning Lotus would have dared to rebel? Morning Lotus remained standing. He was determined to carry the fight to the end. His eyes flashed . He did not know where he had got this strength of anger. Big Red Pepper told the story to Dr. Kao. Dr. Kao first forced Morning Lotus to sit on a chair. Then smiling he said, "The Di­ rector's fears are justified . This matter must absolutely not be noised abroad. We were all arrested, but fortunately the Director was able to get us out in peace. Don't think that was a small thing. If we'd thrown the low dice we might have left our heads . Peach Blossom's case was different from ours. Why did she die there? No one knows . What if the Japanese should investigate and find out that she was of our group. Could we hide that? Let it be, Mr. Kuan. The dead cannot come to life again. Those who are still alive should not seek death . I always speak true words ." Neither of the Kuans said a word. Finally Morning Lotus stood up and started to go out. ''What are you going to do?" Dr. Kao asked. ''I'm going for a walk. I'll soon be back." Morning Lotus' anger did not keep him from finding his hat. He was afraid of catching cold. Big Red Pepper sighed deeply. Dr. Kao started to follow Morn­ ing Lotus but Big Red Pepper stopped him. "Don't bother about him. He has not much courage. He just wanted to annoy me." Dr. Kao drank a cup of hot tea and ate several pieces of cake 363

and said what was in his heart. "Director, it may be superstitious of me but I feel that something is wrong." "Why?" Big Red Pepper was still angry but she would not vent her temper on Dr. Kao so her voice was gentle. "Even with our position and reputation we stayed several days in prison. I think something's wrong, something's wrong." He put his hands in his sleeves and looked far away. "Why?" Big Red Pepper again asked him. "Keeping company with an emperor is like keeping company with a tiger. Once they have turned their faces away, even min­ isters of great achievement cannot keep their heads on their shoulders." "Um-there is something in what you say." "I think, Director, we'd better open our hotel quickly, and quickly get all the money we can. When we have a financial foun­ dation we need fear nothing. If they still want us, we can keep our official position. If they don't want us, we can put our whole hearts and minds to our business. Director, don't you think I'm right?" Big Red Pepper nodded. "That Little Mrs. Tsui should trick us will not do. I will go to her at once and show her our colors." "That's right." "When I have finished with Little Mrs. Tsui, I will seriously make the preparations for the hotel. We should be able to open the business as soon as spring comes. When the business is once started it is certain to succeed-opium, gambling, prostitutes, and dancing. It's really something unique, unique. If our business is good we will have a bushel of gold every day, and then we will be afraid of nothing." Big Red Pepper nodded again. "Director, what about lending me some of the capital now, if it is convenient for you? Anything that is bought these days must be for cash. Otherwise I would use my tongue to get all that is needed." "How much do you want?" Dr. Kao pretended to think, and then said, "About eighty or a hundred thousand. Don't give me too much . Suppose there were an accident-I would not be able to face you . Friends are friends; money is money." "I will give you eighty thousand." Big Red Pepper believed Dr. Kao but she had some caution left. She gave him a check. Dr. Kao put the check in his pocket and went to house Num­ ber Four.

Sun the Seventh was drunk and when he was able to see clearly who it was that came in, he flared up. He was one whose words were many and whose body was weak, but today he really wanted to fight. He was drunk and he also was the chief matchmaker. And what was more, Dr. Kao looked like a small thin chicken, so he did not think of anything else but only to beat up Dr. Kao. Fourth Master Li seized hold of Sun the Seventh and said, "Wait a moment, see what he will say." Dr. Kao congratulated Chang Shun and Old Widow Ma. Then he went over to Fourth Master Li and said, "Be at ease, there is nothing. I am your friend. She-that big woman"-he pointed in the direction of the Kuan house-"is your real enemy. I am not willing to eat her food any longer. I am not willing to take the abuse in her house." He took out a little notebook. "Before all of you-look." He tore the notebook into pieces and threw them on the ground . When he had torn it up, he smiled . Then he took up a cup of wine, and throwing back his head drank it down. i'Chang Shun, I congratulate you and hope that you will live with your wife until you both have white hair. Don't hate me any more-I was only running for others. My heart is not bad. Please-all sit down. Goodbye." When he had spoken he lifted his green face, and swinging his long sleeves in a lordly manner, he walked out. He went directly to the Great Front Gate of the city and cashed his check in the Western Legation Quarter. Then he went to the station and bought a second-class ticket to Tientsin . "In Tientsin, I will first play a few days . Then I will go to Nanking and sell herbs. It will not be a bad business . I am afraid that it will not be easy to eat in Peiping any more," he said to himself.

Chapter Twenty-five

�J v' r i

LOTUS started back home. At the Western Four Arches he bought two jars of crab apples preserved in honey and some roasted apricot seeds. He would go home and warm up a bottle of bamboo-leaf-green wine and eat the crab apples and the apricot seeds. He then went to a general store and bought two jars of Japanese-made cosmetics as a gift for Big Red Pepper. From now on he would not quarrel with his lady. With smiles on his face he went home. As he crossed the threshold of the courtyard he saw his eldest daughter, Kaodee. Her arms were tied behind her back, and she was crouched against the wall. 365 ORNING

"What's happened?" He almost dropped the two jars of crab apple preserves. "What's happened?" Kaodee twisted her body and her eyes protruded from their sockets . She made noises through her nose for she was gagged. "What has happened?" As he spoke he gently laid the two jars of preserves down. Kaodee again twisted her body and nodded her head violently. Morning Lotus pulled the stuffings out of her mouth. She drew a deep breath and then retched. "What's happened?" "Loose my bonds," she said angrily. Morning Lotus tried to untie the knots. They were very secure. After breaking two fingernails, he managed to unloose them. Kaodee rubbed her wrists . She tried to stand up but her legs were numb. Before she had managed to stand she fell down 4gain, bumping her head against the wall. Morning Lotus hastily helped her to rise and walk slowly toward the house. The door of the northern room was open and in a glance Morn· ing Lotus could see inside. There were tables and chairs upturned, and there were tables and chairs on their sides. Porcelain was thrown all over the floor.· Flower vases and spittoons lay together. It was as though there had been an earthquake. He let go of Kaodee and with one leap was inside the room. His most beloved sofa had a great gash that looked like a bayonet cut. His legs re­ fused to move, his mouth hung open. Kaodee, holding to the frame of the door, said, "Retribution has come upon us." "What?" As he said this he went into the bedroom. On the bed he did not see his embroidered quilts and his duck-feather pillow. The furniture was in the same condition as in the outer room, all was scattered and upside down on the floor. "What kind of a thing is this?" he yelled. Kaodee walked limping in. "Retribution has come upon us." "Tell me what has happened. What retribution? Why should retribution come to me? I have never done anything to hurt heaven or offend righteousness." Kaodee sat on a small stool. "You sold Uncle Chien. You listened to Mother and helped to make good women into prostitutes. You spoiled Meydee and let her play with men, and men play with her. You let Mother abuse Peach Blossom . From morning to night you ate and drank, played and made merry. You never asked where the money came from."

"I asked you what happened here. I did not ask you for a lec­ ture." Morning Lotus stamped his foot. "And most of all you should not have taken the Japanese as your precious darlings, and seek favors from them, and help them as though they had never killed any of our people and taken away our land." "I ask you-what happened here?" "I'm telling you. This was done by the Japanese." Morning Lotus squatted and covered his face with his hands . He said to himself, "It can't be, it can't be that the Japanese did this ." And thinking this way he spoke, "It could not be the Japa­ nese. I have never done anything to offend them, Kaodee. Tell me the truth." "I have not said a single word that is not true." "Did the Japanese really come in-" "After lunch Mother went to her office." Kaodee's wrists were beginning to pain her but bearing the pain she went on with her story. "Meydee did not come back. The servants had gone out and I was here alone. At about half-past two, ten people came, two Japanese among them . As soon as they came into the room they began to carry the things away without saying a word." "Carry things away?" "Look ! Where are Mother's chests?" Kaodee pointed to the place where the chests usually stood. Morning Lotus looked. Not only were the chests gone but the boxes for holding ornaments that usually stood on the chests were gone also. His hands began to tremble "The boxes in this room, in Peach Blossom's room, in Meydee' s room and my room, were all carried away. I was worried and started to question them. They tied me up with ropes . I tried to shout and they gagged me. All I could do was to watch them carry the things away. Those who carried the things were Chinese. The two J apa­ nese selected what to take but did not carry anything. Sometimes I was alone with the two of them . I made up my mind that if they dared to come over and attack me that I would knock my head against the wall and kill myself. But they did not molest me. When they had taken almost everything they found the wine. I began to try to roll out-I feared that once they were drunk they would not leave me alone. I rolled to the threshold of the gate but could get no farther. When they had finished drinking they began to smash things. I could hear the crashing and banging coming from every room. When they came out they threw me next to the wall, and went away. Retribution has come upon us. We sought favors from 3 67

them for money. Now we have lost everything. Even our clothes and bedclothes are gone." "Kaodee, are you sure those two were really Japanese?" Kaodee could not control her anger. "No, they were disguised. All the Japanese are your relatives and friends-they could not come and hurt you ." "Oh, don't be angry, don't be angry. I think that with the rela­ tion between me and the Japanese they could not be so impolite to me." "Sure, they are polite to you. Otherwise how could they come to take away your city, and your land, and steal your country?" "Don't be angry. Anger doesn't get things done. You do your best to clear up the rooms and I will go to find your mother. If she should go to the Japanese we will get all our things back again . You go ahead and clear things up and when the servants come back get them to help you." "They will not come back." "Why?" "After the Japanese left, they came back. They took their own things and at the same time some of our things and went away again ." "Rotten eggs ." "They are not rotten eggs. No one respects our way of living." "Don't say anything more. I'm going to find your mother." Before Morning Lotus got out of the door of the room, Meydee came running in. "Father, Father!" She was excited and almost tripped over the things on the floor. "What's happened, now what's happened?" "Mother, Mother has been arrested !" As she finished speaking Meydee collapsed on the floor. "Your mother-" Morning Lotus could not finish the sentence. "I went to ask her for some money and got there just in time to see them bind her and take her away." The t_houghts of Morning Lotus were the same as those of Meydee. He knew that without the Director they were without anything. He should go quickly and try to save her, but his courage was small. He was afraid that if he went out he would also be involved . He was Big Red Pepper's husband, and if Big Red Pep­ per had really committed a crime, the Japanese would certainly not overlook him. He rubbed his hands without ceasing and could think of no plan. "Go"-Meydee stuck out her little chest-"go, I will go with you."

"Where should we go?" Morning Lotus asked with his head hanging. "Go to see the Japanese." "Which Japanese?" Morning Lotus' heart hurt as if a knife had been stuck in it. He had thought that all the Japanese were his friends but today he saw clearly that he did not really know a single Japanese. Meydee put her head to one side and thought. " I have it-we will first go to house Number One and see that old lady. Whether there is any use in it or not, she is after all a Japanese." Morning Lotus' face immediately cleared. He said in his heart, "Right, that's right, anyhow she is a Japanese. Any Japanese is better than a Chinese." Then he said to Meydee, "But shouldn't we take a present? How can we go with empty hands?" Kaodee smiled coldly. "What are you smiling at?" Meydee's beautiful eyes showed anger. "In the past you took no responsibility and now that Mother's arrested you laugh. You would like Mother to die in prison so that we would all starve to death. Am . I right?" Kaodee stood up. "You see only Mother but have not looked at Mother's crimes . I do not wish her death-she is my mother-but I cannot, because she is my mother, say that all her actions were good. I have no profession but I would like to go and find some little job and earn my own bowl of rice." Morning Lotus turned to his elder daughter. "Kaodee you were always stubborn, and now you are just as stubborn as ever. Well, you watch the house, and I will go with Meydee." Meydee put on lipstick and powdered her face, and then holding the hand of Morning Lotus, went out. As soon as they arrived at the gate of Number One, Morning Lotus with great respect, placed his feet together to be ready as soon as the gate opened, to make the deep, deep bow. Meydee knocked at the gate. The old woman came to open the gate. As soon as she saw who were outside she shut the gate again. Morning Lotus and his daughter stood silent. "The affair is serious, serious," Morning Lotus said to Meydee. "You see as soon as your mother is in trouble no one wants to help us. What shall we do?" Meydee flared up. "Father, you go back home, and I will run around. I have friends. I must save Mother." And as she finished speaking she ran out of the Little Sheep Fold. Morning Lotus returned home alone. The day was almost over; it was growing dark.

Kaodee was trying to set the room to rights. It made Morning Lotus very unhappy to see his daughter working. It seemed to him that to sweep and dust was for servants and should have nothing to do with young "ladies." Finally he spoke, "Kaodee, what will we do for supper?" Kaodee went on working and said, "Go and buy a few shaoping. I will make a fire and boil some water." Morning Lotus could not go out and buy shaoping-those hard seed-covered rolls the workmen bought and ate on the streets. That would make him lose too much face. He began to see the real difficulties before him. He saw only blackness and humiliation. He went very quietly out of the room and walked around and around the courtyard. He walked several times to the gate but always came back. No, he would rather suffer hunger the whole night through than lose his dignity. He again entered the room. "Father, aren't you hungry? Why don't you go and buy the shaoping?" Kaodee asked. Morning Lotus did not want to answer. He felt that Kaodee was unable to understand him and there was no use in wasting more words. "You're hungry, aren't you? All right, I'll go and buy the shao­ ping, and I'll buy a pot of boiling water, that will save making a fire." Kaodee dusted herself off and started out. Morning Lotus wanted to stop her. To have his daughter go out to buy shaoping and boiling water was also to lose face, but shaoping were, after all, something to satisfy hunger. He must not overdo this matter of keeping his dignity. Kaodee went out. Left alone, Morning Lotus felt very sad. He thought he would commit suicide if he did not within five minutes eat a few shaoping. Kaodee came running back with the rolls. Morning Lotus with tears in his eyes ate three with crab apple preserve. After eating came the problem of sleeping. There were no quilts . He himself could not think of any way to manage. The culture in which he had been brought up had wrapped him at birth in embroidered quilts and everything had been arranged for him in a most comfortable way by others. There had never been any need for him to take thought or use his strength . When he was grown, his only ability was to make others serve him, take that which came from the sweat of others for his own enjoyment. "Father, cover yourself with my overcoat and sleep first. I will wait for Meydee." She gave him her overcoat. Morning Lotus lay on the bed. He was sure that he would not sleep but after a little while he began to snore. 3 70

PA RT I l l

'Clterc Js !Vo Kctribution

Chapter One that John Ting was at home, otherwise Morn­ would have spent the night under the big locust tree. J ing LotusLotus, covered with Kaodee's overcoat, had just begun T WAS FORTUNATE

Morning to sleep soundly when the Japanese came back again. "Wake up, Father, they have come again," Kaodee whispered. "Who?" Morning Lotus asked sleepily. "The Japanese." Morning Lotus leaped off the bed in one bound and was no longer sleepy. "Good, very good." The Japanese were coming and everything looked bright and light again. Quickly he combed his hair with his fingers, cleared the corners of his eyes, and then went to welcome the Japanese. He thought that with his fine manner and courtesy, he needed only to say three or five words and he would be able to persuade the Japanese to give back all his property. He truly believed that the Japanese were the most reasonable people under the sky. When he saw them-three gendarmes and one plain-clothes man -Morning Lotus sent the smile he was wearing from his face to the tips of his toes so that his whole body was like a spring willow. Gently and gracefully he bowed to them. The plain-clothes man pointed to the door. Morning Lotus smiled but did not understand what the Japanese meant. He went over to look at the door, but could see nothing wrong with it. He stood there blinking his eyes, each time his lids moved his smile broadened. Seeing that he did not move, the plain-clothes man directed the gendarmes by pouting his lips. The gendarmes seized Morning Lotus one on each side and dragged him out. He was still obedient and biddable. His feet not touching the ground, he floated between them. At the gate they threw him into the street. His smiling face struck the ground. Kaodee had long since run out and was standing with her back against the spirit screen. As he was slowly crawling back Morning Lotus saw his daughter. "Kaodee, what's happened?" 373

"Confiscation. We cannot take even a bed ." Kaodee was about to cry but forced her tears back. "Think of something. Where shall we go?" Morning Lotus, no longer smiling, was still not especially wor­ ried. "It can't be, it can't be. The Japanese cannot be so severe with us." "What are the Japanese to you that they cannot be so severe?" Kaodee asked as she wrung her hands : If it had not been for the restraint of the traditions of a thousand years she would have slapped his face. . "Wait and see. When they come out we will go in . I have never offended the Japanese. They cannot treat me without heart and without justice." Kaodee left him and went over to stand under one of the locust trees. After half an hour the Japanese came out of the gate. The plain� clothes man was holding a torch, and by the light of the torch the gendarmes affixed the seal on the gate. Morning Lotus' heart seemed to stop beating but like an experi­ enced actor who can finish the performance even if ill he still made the deep bow. After bowing he seemed absolutely exhausted and sat suddenly on the steps. With his head in his hands he began to weep. His elegance, property, enjoyments, philosophy, and pretensions, seemed all suddenly to have come to an end. Kaodee came quietly over. "Think of something. What's the use of crying?" "I'm finished, finished ." He stood up suddenly. "Those cannot be real Japanese. Pretenders, pretenders- Real Japanese would not act that way. I will go and report them." "You rotten egg." Kaodee had never before abused ·her father but now she could not control herself. "The Japanese have con­ fiscated all you have and yet you still think about them. Do you think this seal is not genuine? If it is not genuine then tear it off." There was a lump in her throat and she could not go on . She coughed hard a couple of times and then spoke again . "Where shall we go? We cannot stay here and freeze the night through ." Morning Lotus had no ideas . Those who rely always on others are not able to face the wild winds and the stormy rains . Kaodee went and knocked at the Chi family gate. The Chi family, old and young, because there was no coal, had already gone to bed. Yun Mei heard the knocking at the gate and gave an involuntary shiver. Rey Shuan also heard the knocking and started to get up at once. 3 74

"Perhaps they have come again to make an arrest." Yun Mei wrapped the clothes around her and left the bed, and walked quietly out. When she reached the gate she tried first to look out through the crack between the two halves of the gate to see who was there, but it was so dark she could see nothing. With great conrage she asked softly, "Who is it?" "I, Kaodee-open the gate." Kaodee's voice was not loud but was very urgent. Yun Mei opened the gate and Kaodee did not wait until it was fully opened but squeezed through. She seized Yun Mei's hand. "Elder Sister Chi, retribution has come upon us. Everything has been confiscated." Yun Mei and Kaodee both began to tremble. Rey Shuan became anxious and slipping on his clothes also came out. "What's happened, what's happened?" He tried to be calm but could not help being excited. "Elder Brother, confiscated-everything. What shall we do?" Rey Shuan asked a few questions and got the general picture of what had happened. He was willing to help Kaodee-he knew that she was a good person-but to help her he would have also to help Morning Lotus and so he hesitated. No matter how kind his heart or how big, he could not help Morning Lotus who had sold Mr. Chien . Yun Mei did not want to do anything for the Kuans. This was not from coldness of heart but because she did not want her own family to become involved. In times like these she knew that it was most important to be careful and discreet. Kaodee saw the hesitation of the couple and she put pleading into her words. "Elder Brother, Elder Sister, don't judge me by the others in the family. Help me for my sake. The night is cold. Would you like me to spend the night under the locust tree?" Rey Shuan's heart softened. He forgot Morning Lotus and thought only of getting a place for Kaodee. "Little Wen's rooms are empty. Go and see John Ting." Yun Mei also forgot her discretion. "You go with her. John Ting respects you and things will go smoothly. Well-can she spend the night under the trees?" Fortunately John Ting was at home. He rented the whole com­ pound and sublet to the others, and now he was willing to give Rey Shuan face. But there was nothing in the rooms . "Put up with it for the night and we will do something tomor­ row," Rey Shuan said. Yun Mei gave Kaodee a couple of old quilts . 375

None of them paid any attention to Morning Lotus except John Ting who threw a few words to him. "Japanese are different from the English . You never got that straight in your mind. The Japa­ nese change color and then they don't know you. The English are always the same. If you don't believe me, ask Mr. Chi." Morning Lotus felt no gratitude toward Rey Shuan and John Ting, because he thought that the only relationship between man and man was to make use of each other. He did not understand kindness, or goodness, or friendship. He thought that they had helped him now as a kind of investment. Although he had lost everything today, he could surely restore the banners and drums, if only the Japanese would stay in Peiping forever. Sitting on the little stool that John Ting brought for him, Morn­ ing Lotus felt the cold and the unhappiness but he had not lost hope entirely. He thought of Big Red Pepper and his despondency lessened . He spoke without thinking, "Kaodee, don't worry. As soon as your mother gets out everything will be all right." "How do you know that Mother will get out?" Kaodee's temper was on edge. "Have you put a curse on her?" "I could not put a curse on her, but I know all that she has done." "What has she done? She earned money, good wine and good food. Was that all wrong?" Kaodee did not want to waste words with him. The next day all the people in the Little Sheep Fold saw the seal on the Kuan gate and rejoiced. All understood the ingratitude and meanness of the Japanese. They let the traitors do evil and then pretending to be righteous, they cleared out the traitors . They took not only what the Kuans had squeezed under the Japa­ nese but also took all that they had originally had. In spite of this, when the people saw the seal they were happy. If they never saw the Kuans again they would burn a bundle of incense m thanks to the gods . They had not imagined that Morning Lotus would move to Number Six. This disappointment, however, did not develop into hatred and revenge. They were Chinese and no one was willing to beat a half-drowned dog. Without consultation they unanimously agreed to ignore him. It seemed to them that this coldness was quite enough for Morning Lotus to put up with. But Rey Feng was an exception. He thought that this was a good opportunity to restore harmonious relations with the Kuans . He was determined to go and chat with Morning Lotus. Moreover, 37 6

if he took the opportunity-when the Kuans were in misfortune­ to show his friendliness to them, perhaps he could get Kaodee. Although Kaodee was not as beautiful as Meydee, to have a wife was better than to be a "bare stick." This was his opportunity, an opportunity he must not throw away. "Where are you going, Second?" Rey Shuan asked, seeing Rey Feng hastening out after breakfast. "To see Mr. Kuan," Rey Feng answered happily. "What for?" "What for? What a ·question ! Didn't you help him get a place to stay?" Rey Shuan had hesitated the night before about helping the Kuans. He had been most afraid that his kindness would be mis­ interpreted just as the Second had misinterpreted it. This kind of misinterpretation could, at the very least, give him the reputation of not knowing what was right from what was wrong, good from evil. Hearing what the Second said, his face immediately changed color. Angry, he almost shouted at the Second, "I will not allow you to go." "Why?" the Second said with bad temper. "Why?" Rey Shuan was unwilling to give any explanation but only shouted in a rage, "I will not allow you to go." Mrs. Tien Yiu understood her eldest son's reasons . Although he had done the Kuan family a little service he was not willing to make friends with them. "Listen to your Eldest Brother, Second." Rey Feng was extremely annoyed. Lifting his little face he said, "All right, all right, I won't go. Does that suit you? Hum! Even a bit of freedom doesn't exist here, I see." Muttering angrily to him­ self he went to his own room. Rey Shuan felt like making a great scene to rid himself of the accumulation of grievances in his heart but looking at his mother he sealed all the words inside himself. Quickly putting on his hat he went out. As he went out the gate he met Morning Lotus. Morning Lotus had never before got up so early. This day, because the room was cold, he came out early to stretch his half­ congealed legs. Most of the people in the Little Sheep Fold got up early and he had seen several of the neighbors. If he tried to be friendly with them it would be a lowering of his status. Although at present his "rhythm of fate" was not very good, Morning Lotus was after all Morning Lotus . A dead camel is still bigger than a donkey. But if he did not greet them it seemed awkward. Not one neighbor, however, had spoken to him. They had looked 377

at him only and then moved their eyes toward the seal on the gate as if he and the seal were things of the same species . As soon as he saw Rey Shuan he thought that he had the oppor­ tunity to tell of his sufferings. In the past he had always thought that Rey Shuan was proud and cold. Now he thought that Rey Shuan was smarter than all the other neighbors because Rey Shuan understood that a . dead camel was still bigger than a live donkey. "Rey Shuan," Morning Lotus called affectionately and sadly. "Rey Shuan ." On his face was three-tenths of a smile and seven­ tenths of sadness, blended carefully to show that he was entirely helpless and should be pitied. Rey Shuan not only did not nod, but with his head in the air walked straight away. Morning Lotus, however, forgave Rey Shuan. He said to himself, "This is not Rey Shuan daring to put on airs with me, it is because of the English Palace." Kaodee from behind the half-closed gate called Morning Lotus, "Father, come here." On entering the house, Morning Lotus looked at the empty rooms and at his daughter, who had not washed her face or combed her hair. "Father, have you any plan?'' Kaodee asked without leading up to it. "Ahhh-" He thought awhile. "We still have some money in the bank. Look-" He took the checkbook from his pocket. "I always carry this precious book near my breast. Whenever I need money, I just write a check. Convenient. I don't know where your mother's checkbook could be." "If the Japanese have confiscated all in the house, will they leave us any money? You are thinking as you wish." "What, what? Money also confiscated?" Morning Lotus was now really worried. "It can't be, it can't be." "Don't you remember what happened to Barren Hill?" "U nng." He could find nothing to say and his head was suddenly bathed in sweat. "Don't dream any more." 'Tm going. I'm going to the bank to see." "Father, listen to me. I have a little money. I will first go to Fourth Master Li and ask him to buy us two old beds and a few odds and ends of the things we need. And as for me, I'm going out immediately to look for work. If I can get a job I will support you, but on one condition-that you never mention the Japanese or try to work with them any more. If you promise, I will go out and look for work. If you do not promise, I will leave you." 37 8

"Where will yqu go?" "Where can't I go?" "You think your mother will not get out?" "I don't know." "What work will you look for?" "I'll take anything that I can do." "Let me first go to the bank and then we will discuss it when I get back. Will you?" "All right." Morning Lotus did not hire a rickshaw. He discovered that he was able to walk to the bank. The bank refused to cash his check. For the first time in his life he walked fast. He almost trotted back home. "How was it?" Kaodee asked. He could not speak. It seemed as if half of hi � had died. He did not have a single copper left and it was the Japanese who had robbed him. After a long time he opened his mouth. "Kaodee, let us go quickly and save your mother. There is no second way. If she is out we will still have ways to manage. Otherwise-" "What if we can't get her out?" "There is nothing that can't be done if we see the right people and move around." "See Eastern Sun and Fat Chrysanthemum?" Morning Lotus eyes were round. "Don't bother me, I have my own ways." Kaodee went to Fourth Master Li and asked him to buy her some secondhand things and she herself then went on the street and bought an earthenware basin, an earthenware water jar, a kettle of boiling water, and some shaoping. After they had eaten the shaoping and drunk some water Morn­ ing Lotus went everywhere to see his fox friends and his dog com­ panions. Some of these refused to see him and some of them chatted idly with him. Ten days passed and he had not been able to learn where Big Red Pepper was, but he still did not give up hope. He thought that although he could not find out, Meydee would certainly be able to do so. But where was she? He began to look everywhere for Meydee, but Meydee was like a stone that had been dropped into the ocean.

3 79

Chapter Two Big Red Pepper was sure there must be misunder­ Jputstanding. She who had worked for the Japanese could not be in prison. N PRISON

a

"A misunderstanding can be put right," she told herself. If only she could see the Japanese, she would be able to clear herself in two or three words and swagger home. But three days, five days, even ten days went by and she did not see a single Japanese. Twice a day a Chinese came who threw a piece of black bread at her and gave her some cold water. She asked the fellow many questions but he seemed to be dumb and would not say a word. She had no way to change her clothes, no place to bathe, not even water to wash her hands. She longed for a relative to come to see her. If only someone came she could give the necessary instructions and gain her free­ dom. But not so much as a shadow came. It was as though all had forgotten her. Perhaps no one knew where she was. If it was the first-involuntarily she ground her teeth-"Ah ha, people ate what I provided, drank what I provided, but when I am in trouble they don't even come to see me. A pack of dogs and sons of dogs ! " I f n o one knew where she was i t could b e very serious indeed. She fell into a cold sweat. Night and day she calculated. Whom among the Chinese could she call on? What road should she follow with the Japanese? She even planned what words should be said to _each person and what gifts should be taken. It was all worked out according to logic and reason. Her eyes brightened. Yes, if only someone would come to see her, take her ideas and execute them, she could guarantee that they would work. Although her entrance to prison had not been very dignified, when she left it must be with all the fair breezes blowing and a high manner. She would dress herself in the big red and big purple, and when she got home she would give a great feast to console herself. She hoped especially that Meydee would come. Meydee was beautiful and was liked by everyone. If Meydee went around every­ where she would surely be able to get her released. But no one came and all was dark before her eyes. "Can it be that after my heroic life I will end in this way?" she asked herself, asked the walls, asked all the gods in her imagination. It was all asked in vain . There was no answer.

She had not been brought to trial, how could she be convicted. She had committed no crime worthy of death. She had "gnaran· teed protection" for the "dark doors," and squeezed a bit of money from the prostitutes. Were those capital crimes? A matter for mirth. What official did not squeeze? If it were not for squeeze no one would care to be an official. Really ! "Have patience, have patience," she tried to pacify herself. If only she could come to trial and could see the Japanese judge she could in a few words explain everything. She straightened her clothes, patted her hair, and patiently waited for the trial. "What an idea ! To be afraid of a lawsuit! " She smiled. Day after day passed. No one came to summon her to court. Her face had turned to loose skin and freckles. Her hair became dry and disordered, like twisted strings, and full of fat black lice. Her eyes became rimmed with red. Her whole body itched and like a beggar she scratched with both hands all the time. When she stopped scratching she looked at her hands. Under her nails were greyish white scales and. sometimes blood. She could not put up with it any longer. Taking hold of the iron bars of the prison she shook them desperately like a mad female gorilla . She wanted to be let out. She wanted to see the North Sea Park, Central Park, the Eastern Peace Market, and all the other places of amusement. She wanted to drink the foreign wines that John Ting brought from the English Palace. She wanted to eat a meal the cooking of which had been supervised by Morning Lotus. She shook the iron bars until her hands ached but the bars still blocked her way. She shouted but that also was useless. Slowly she sat down and dropped her chin onto her chest and listened to herself grinding her own teeth. Except for the Japanese she hated all the people she knew. Her relatives and friends must be jealous and must have spoken evil of her to the Japanese. She ground her teeth a long time and then putting her hands on her forehead she prayed, "Japanese fathers, don't listen to the slanders told you by those 'rotten eggs' but come to see me. Q uestion me. This is unfair. I am your loyal servant." She fell into a state between sleeping and waking. She saw her· self with Meydee bowing to the Japanese at the skating contest in the North Sea Park. She saw herself offering flowers to the Japanese at a large gathering. Then she was counting the dollar bills given her by the prostitutes. All these good dreams gave her a sweet intoxication as though she had smoked a pipe of opium. She felt that she was flying upward, upward, upward. Suddenly a draft of cold air made her shrink and quickly sink 3 81

back to earth . She opened her eyes. On four sides-surrounding her, a prisoner-was darkness and filth, foul odors and cold air. In­ voluntarily she shouted again and angry fire burned her heart, her throat, her whole body. She forgot the cold and unbuttoned her clothes and showed her long loose breasts and asked the walls to look at them. "Look at me, look at me. I'm a woman, a woman of ability. Why am I kept here? Let me go!" She wanted to weep but she laughed madly. Quickly she tore her .clothes off; and bending her head, rolling her eyes to one side, and swaying her hips, she walked back and forth. "See, see," she commanded the walls. "Look, don't you think I'm like a prostitute-a prostitute in a brothel? My sworn daughters-dollar bills-ha ha!" A piece of black bread was thrown between the bars and a small jar of water placed inside them. Naked she seized the iron bars and shouted, "Hey, is this the way to treat a director? You did not even address me as Director. I am a director, Director Kuan." Then like a mad dog she crouched on the ground. She drank the water. Licking her lips she picked up the piece of black bread, smelled it, and then threw it with all her might against the wall . While she was half-human and half-animal, now crying and now laughing, there were many anonymous letters sent to the Japanese accusing her. Cheng Chang Shun's accusation was also seen by the Japanese. And at the same time there were quite a few women who, because they wanted Big Red Pepper's position, attacked her relentlessly and "put extra leaves on the branches." Her crimes were published in the newspapers', There was even a statistical study made of all the "dark doors" that Big Red Pepper had had under her "protection." Winter passed. Spring gradually melted the ice of Peiping. The little streams and little lakes seemed to have just awakened. In the corners of the courtyards grew fragrant little grasses . The cats on the walls and on the roofs cried the spring. In Big Red Pepper's cell there were no green grasses or fragrant flowers. She saw only the flames of fire, red and hot �ames, burning from her heart to her mouth. Her frost-bitten heels became un­ frozen. She was hot. She shouted. There were flames in her voice which burned her throat and tongue . . She shouted with all her strength. She tore at the clothes full of lice and ripped them into shreds. When they could not be torn into more pieces she began to tear her own hair. With her fists clenched she struck at Peach Blossom, but she struck the wall and her hands bled. She shouted and cursed, "Stinking woman, I'll tear you to pieces." She shouted for the chauffeur. She shouted angrily at the men and women servants 382 ·

and at Little Tsui. Loudly she shouted, "Banzai to the Victorious Imperial Army of Japan ! " She became tired. She stopped shouting but still continued to mumble, "Beat, beat, beat." Suddenly a crowd of prostitutes appeared in her mind. They turned into rela­ tives and friends. Beat, beat, beat. She beat these shadows down one by one, and piled them up like a human mountain. She stood on top of the mountain. She was a female hero, a woman Director. Gradually she forgot who she was. Sometimes she was Meydee dressed up gaily and holding the hand of a handsome young man and walking in the public parks. Sometimes she was a prostitute mightily enjoying the game of love. Suddenly she began to search everywhere like a rooster scratching the earth. She knocked her body, her head, her hands and feet against the door and the walls. "Where are my dollar bills? Who has hidden · my money?" Her whole body bled. She stood up. Bending her head she listened very intently and then smiled. "They've come, they've come. Are you coming to take Director Kuan to trial?" But there was not even the shadow of a person. The fire of her anger burned anew in her breast, burned through the roof, burned to the zenith. In space the bright light wrote a great word, "Director." Looking at the big word she felt comfort and pride. She sat down slowly and with her fingers she rolled the filth on the ground into a cake, into a powder puff with whic.h she lightly powdered her face. ''I'll dress up, I'll dress up." Taking a few strips of cloth she tied up her hair. "You are really quite young, Director." She knew no difference between day and night and had no idea of time. There was no boundary between dream and reality. Finally she saw Morning Lotus, Meydee, Dr. Kao, Peach Blos­ som, Little Tsui, and countless Japanese corning to take her away. ' She put on a red woolen spring topcoat and golden high-heeled slippers. She put on her pheasant-feather hat and swaggering with a great air she walked out. The Japanese military band played a farewell for her. Meydee presented her with a basket of fresh flowers . A crowd of her sworn daughters saluted her with reverence, and each of them presented her with a roll of bank notes . Like the Empress Dowager, smilingly, she entered the motorcar. "Drive to the North Sea Park," she gave the order. The motorcar started and drove into the darkness. She never again saw the North Sea Park. While Big Red Pepper was in prison the one who tried hardest to get the position of Director of the Bureau for the Inspection of Prostitutes was one of her disciples, Fat Chrysanthemum. 3 83

Fat Chrysanthemum had decided that she must raise her posi­ tion from "disciple" to "master." She began with great courage to create her own style of clothes, hats, and shoes, using her own talents entirely and no longer imitating Big Red Pepper. Although she was now fatter than ever, she had clothes made so close-fitting it seemed that her flesh must break through. She did not love Eastern Sun but she must pretend to love him for she needed his help to get the directorship into her hands . Once she became the director, she would have her own income, position, power and-freedom. Then she could refuse his stinking mouth, his green face, and the pile of ribs that was his body. If he protested she would come to a showdown with him. She had married him because of his position . If she had her own position she would relentlessly kick him out. Wearing her tight, plastered-to-the-body clothes she went daily here and there visiting all her friends. She also visited Big Red Pepper's friends to indicate that from now on she was their leader. They must support her and down Big Red Pepper. But after visiting around for many days there was still no sign of the job. When Eastern Sun thought that he might get Big Red Pepper's position in his own family he would begin to itch all over. With all his strength he wrote poetry. He organized an Exterminate the Reds society. This society consisted of himself alone and its "litera­ ture" consisted of attacks against Big Red Pepper. He used many false names to make it a society. He said in his first piece : "Big Red Pepper is a nickname. Why red? Red is communist. Anyone made of flesh and blood should say that the reds must die. There­ fore Big Red Pepper must die." He was most pleased with these sentences . He knew that in these days if one but mentioned the word red, the Japanese would forget what was black and what white and that this was the most terrible accusation he could make.

Chapter Three

1J v' vi

to return home since the confiscation. She was afraid there might be more trouble and she would be imprisoned. She was, however, wholeheartedly trying to save her mother. She now understood that without her mother she had nothing. When she had been studying the opera she had met an actress. She now went to see this actress and-in two or three words-just stayed with her. EYDEE HAD NOT DARED

This actress had many, many friends and her house was like a market place from morning to night. Meydee merged into this group and begged them to save Big Red Pepper. Among her old friends and relatives she also sought out ·a few. They were all cold to her. Some of them even told her to her face, "We are afraid of being involved . Please don't come again." Among the many men friends of the actress was one who was in the Japanese secret service. He was a handsome young man . He always dressed well and he carried a gun. At any time whatever, he was apt to put on a small unnecessary smile in order to increase his beauty. From morning to night he was pulling at his collar, hitching up his trousers, or adjusting his coat. Besides his revolver he always carried a little mirror, and from time to time he took it out and iooked at himself. Sometimes he even looked as far as his teeth and gums. After talking with Meydee he understood her difficulties and offered to help her. He assured her that if only she would go with him to see a certain person, Big Red Pepper would imme­ diately be set free. Meydee was overjoyed and agreed to go with him . He took Meydee to the east city, to an isolated house not far from the city wall . Inside he introduced her to a Japanese and in the twinkling of an eye had disappeared. Meydee began to wonder what kind of deal this was. The Japanese asked her in detail about herself and as she answered the questions she told him about Big Red Pepper. He wrote down all she told him about herself but nothing about Big Red Pepper. He then took her to a very small room. There was only a bed and a chair in it. "This is your room . Remember well Number 1 09. From now on you are Number 1 09. No one will address you by your name." When he had finished he shouted, "Number 1 04. " A girl about the same age as Meydee came in. She saluted the Japanese with great respect and then stood as straight as a poker. "Tell her the rules." The Japanese went away. Meydee started to run quickly away but Number 1 04 stopped her. "Don't move. Those who have once entered here can never leave." "What is this, what is this?" Meydee asked anxiously. "You will understand when you have been here awhile. There is no need to be so nervous." "Let me go, let me go. I have important business." "Let you go? There is not one who has been allowed to go," Number 1 04 said without emotion. 38 5

"I must go, I must save my mother." "If you stay here and if you do good work you will be able to save your mother." Number io4 smiled and her smile was very short, very cold, and very hard. "Really?" Meydee did not believe what Number 1 04 told her. "It doesn't matter whether you believe me or not." Number 1 04 smiled again and then she began to tell Meydee the rules of the place. Meydee's heart turned cold. She had never been under any restrictions, but here everything was under so many rules it seemed that living people were turned into machines. She cried half the night. With great difficulty she at last went to sleep but before long she was awakened by the ringing of a bell. Day was just breaking. Number 1 04, outside the door, called to her, "Get up at once. If you are late you will be beaten half to death ." Meydee hurriedly got up and ran out in a daze. It was very cold. When the cold air struck her face she woke completely and the tears again blurred her eyes . Together they ran to the washing room. Meydee rinsed her mouth and dashed some water on her face, and went out quickly. Rubbing her eyes with her hands she followed the others, about forty young boys and girls. They ran to the back, to an open space, for morning assembly. There was a high wall on three sides and on top of the walls was thickly woven barbed wire. The fourth side of the open space was the back of the building and in it were several square openings . Not far beyond the east wall of the court was the city wall, greyish black, high and thick. The ground was bare, hard, and greyish yellow. The city wall was greyish black, hard, and bare. The sky was grey, ghostly cold, and - bare. Meydee looked up at the city wall, then looked at the sky. In her dreams she had never seen so frightful a place; every­ thing was grey, cold, silent, and bare. She wanted to hold some­ one's arm so she could stand steady. She was shaking all over. She could hear her teeth chatter. They stood in ranks, the boys in back, facing the wall with the square holes . Numbers 1 0 5 to 1 09 were at the very front. Their unsureness and agitation marked them as newcomers. Four instructors, three Japanese and one Chinese, wearing full military uniforms, walked in from the front court, very solemn and dignified. The leader of the young men and women called, "Atten­ tion," and the three Japanese instructors accepted the salute. Their eyes went from the front of the group to the back. 3 86

The Chinese instructor first saluted the Japanese, and then with precision and a wide sweep of his leg, like a wooden figure turned and faced the group. He clicked his heels with a sound like the ex­ plosion of a firecracker. He began to give instructions. After a few words to the whole company he called the numbers of the new­ comers and gave the order, "Five steps forward-march ! " Meydee looked a t her companions o n the right and the left and went forward with them. The Chinese instructor cleared his throat and said to them in an affectionate voice, "You have already been told the rules of this place. There is no need for me to repeat them. Now is your final opportunity to decide whether you are willing to stay here or not. If you are not willing to stay, please walk forward another five steps." No one dared move. Meydee wanted to walk forward but her feet would not take the steps. She looked to the left and the right. Those on the left and the right looked at her. "No one?" the instructor urged them. The girl on Meydee's right looked not more than sixteen or sev­ enteen. She had a flat face and red cheeks, and was not very tall but rather sturdy. She was not pretty but childlike. She suddenly rushed forward. "Good." The instructor smiled. " Is there anyone else?" Meydee wanted to go forward but was held by the girl on her left. She swayed and then again stood upright. "Good, come here," the instructor said to the flat-faced, red­ cheeked girl. She hesitated once and then with great courage went forward, the white breath coming from her mouth . "Here." The instructor took her to the wall of the house and told her to back against one of the square holes. At this moment the sun rose and the greyish sky became suddenly red. More than half the sky was grey and red like clotted blood . The city wall was darker than ever but the walls of the courtyard had become more distinct. The flat-faced girl was red all over in the red light and her white breath was even whiter than before. One of the J apanese instructors jumped up and shouted, "Right." A gun was fired in the house. The little girl with the white breath still coming from her mouth fell forward like a wooden board. The sky was redder and on the ground the blood flowed. "Go back," the Chinese instructor said to Meydee and the others. Meydee did not know how she was able to get back. Before her eyes there was nothing and no other color but only a red light fill3 87

ing all space from the earth to the heavens and in the red light were golden sfars dancing. "Left turn, double quick!" The Chinese instructor gave the command. Meydee felt almost too ill to run. Every time she ran by the place where the dead body lay she wanted to close her eyes, yet she was drawn to look at it and at the blood on the ground. She could not get her breath and yet she dared not stand still . With her mouth open, she stumbled forward as though she were drunk. Before long a red curtain appeared before her eyes. The red sky and the red blood had joined together. She forgot herself, forgot everything. She felt only that the red sky and the red earth danced and whirled together. . She did not know when or how she got to her room. When she opened her eyes she was on her bed and it was noon . After a month she was no longer afraid of blood and death . Her heart had become a piece of stone. She forgot the life of a lady and worked to become a new Meydee. This new Meydee, she decided, would be more ruthless and capable than her mother. In the past she had known only to use her flower-like beauty for ro­ mance. Now she wanted to add to her flower-like beauty a heart of iron and stone, and to become a greater woman than her mother. It was true that her mother was still in prison but if she could save her mother, they could stand-the two of them-shoulder to shoulder and make all Peiping tremble. The spring passed and Meydee's training was finished. She hoped to have a revolver but she did not get one. She hoped to get exciting work but she was assigned to the rail­ way station to watch the passengers as they came and went. She was given a photograph album. She had to memorize the faces and then watch at the station to see if any were like these photographs. This was not easy work and was not at all interesting. She had to be constantly watchful and yet it was not certain that she would find any "traitor." She had to change her make-up every day. Today she would dress as a country maid, tomorrow she would be a middle-aged housewife, but never could she powder her face and put on lipstick and be a modern young woman. She was not happy with this assignment and even more she did not like her make-up, but orders were orders, and she could not disobey. She knew what would be the result of disobeying orders. She had not forgotten that flat-faced girl. She would have like� to put on gay clothes and high­ heeled shoes like a· woman spy in the Hollywood films and mingle 3 88

with the rich guests in the expensive hotels, but she had to go to the railway station and be a country maid. She felt happy on the first day sh e went on duty at the Chien Men Station. Now again she was free, again she saw the Peiping of warm spring and bright flowers, but when she got to the station she was frightened. It was true that she was a member of the secret service and had the power to make arrests, but was there not danger also in making arrests? Yes, she had a badge but it was not showing. It was hidden inside her clothes. She could not show forth her power. She could only stiffen her courage and stand there like a stupid maiden from the country. She felt lonely and un­ attractive. After a while she picked up a newspaper. The first glance showed her her mother's picture. Big Red Pepper had died in prison. The text around her picture described her corruption and crimes and told of her madness in prison. As Meydee read her tears ran in streams. She had suffered for nothing. She was for nothing a spy in the secret service. She would never see her mother again. Through her tears she saw the people coming and going in the station-so many people-but she was alone in the world. She had lost the mother who loved her and gave her everything. The first idea that came to her was to run away. Of what use was it to be in the secret service if she could not save her mother? She should run away and not be teeth and claws for those who had cheated her. But she knew she could not run away. She watched the people in the station coming and going, the porters and policemen, and she did not know how many of them or which might not be in the secret service. She knew that among them there were certainly spies and not a few at that. And among them probably were some whose special duty was to watch her. She saw again the flat-faced girl falling to the ground without a sound when she had stood be­ fore that square hole. Meydee lifted her head and saw the rifle holes in the crenelations of the city wall. She felt that the holes were like enormous eyes and that if she should try to run there would be bullets from those holes to pierce her heart. She shuddered. She forgot the excitement and the glory of being in the secret service and felt that there were many, many guns behind her back. "All right," she told herself after a long time, "make the best of it. Be hard. Whoever I must kill, I'll kill. Whoever I must trap, I'll trap."

During this period Kaodee had been going out every day to look for work but had been able to find none. Peiping was already half dead. Most of the Chinese businesses were in the same condition as Tien Yiu' s cloth store : the doors were open but there was no buying or selling. Because of this, people were everywhere being laid off. Nowhere would anyone increase the number of those that must be fed. The larger businesses accepted Japanese "partners" and had Japanese working with them. Kaodee would not work in any of the places with Japanese partners, even if she had been offered the opportunity. Even if she were willing to do manual labor there was very little opportunity. In peaceful years a woman could earn three meals a day for herself by washing and sewing for the people in the shops. Now there were only half as many clerks in the shops and she could not get such work. As for work in families, only the most influential traitor families could afford servants. Kaodee did not want to be a maidservant and all the more she did not want to be the slave of a slave. It was now spring and Kaodee had still found no work. She was impatient and felt that this was retribution for Big Red Pep­ per's evil doings; not only had she herself gone to prison but her daughter was to starve to death. Kaodee's and Morning Lotus' winter clothes had been sold as soon as taken off. She could not but consult with her father. "I have done my best but it is useless. What shall we do?" Morning Lotus' answer was ready. "It seems to me that to get married is the best thing. Marry a rich man, and you and I will both have food ." This was indeed the most satisfactory solution as shown by the whole history of China. Youth eats of the parents in their strong years, those fortunate to become officials eat of the people, and in their old years the parents eat of the children. Kaodee was his daughter. She should, in order to support him, sell herself. "There is no other way?" Kaodee asked again. ''None." Kaodee secretly went to Rey Shuan and told him everything in detail and asked his advice. 'Tm afraid that you will have to go away. Here, all is dead. There is no way to make a living in a dead place." "How can I go?" "Of course there are difficulties. The first is the traveling ex­ pense. The second is the question of the right procedures for get390

ting away. The third is the danger. There is, however, more hope in going than in staying here." "What about Father?" "Perhaps I'm rude but he is not really worth bothering about. You know this even better than I." Rey Shuan, as though scraping his very bones, found twenty dollars which he gave to her. "This is not enough but it can at least take you out of the city of Peiping. Once out of the city, meet things as they come." Taking the twenty dollars and a very small bundle, not daring to say goodbye to her father or make the necessary registrations for leaving the city, Kaodee started for the Chien Men Station. She had made inquiries and found that if she made the registrations she would have to tell where she was going and how many days she would be away; and if she did not return on time, the Japanese would go to her family and ask for her. She felt it better, therefore, to take the risk herself and not get others into trouble. She had, moreover, no idea at all where she was going. She thought only in a general way that she should first go to Tientsin . ''Go a step, and then plan the next." With only twenty dollars in her pocket she could not make a detailed itinerary or a long one. When she got on the tram to the Chien Men Station her heart began to beat fast. Holding the little bundle tightly, she felt that many eyes were staring at her. After a few stops, she saw a police­ man and two Japanese get on the tram. She felt sure they had come to arrest her. Before long all of them got off the tram and she relaxed. She thought of Peach Blossom and with her mouth closed said to herself, "Peach Blossom, Peach Blossom, if we had only known, how much better it would have been if we had run away together. How good that would have been. Please protect · me, let me get out of the city in peace." When Kaodee saw the Great Front Gate of the city her heart beat more rapidly. The great high tower of the city gate seemed to her to be the boundary between two worlds. When she left the tram she walked slowly toward the railway station. There was still about twenty minutes before the express for Tientsin would start. She hung her head and stood behind a long line of passengers. A cold shiver passed down her back. The palms of her hands sweated coldly. She hoped only that someone would come to stand behind her and protect her back. While she was in this half-clearminded and half-dazed condi­ tion someone tapped her lightly on the shoulder. Instinctively she 391

wanted to run away but her legs would not work. She thought only of the one word, "Finished." "Elder Sister," Meydee said in a very low voice. Kaodee became paralyzed. The tears suddenly began to fall. For many months she had not heard this affectionate word, "Sister." She and Meydee had not much affection for each other, still flesh and bones were flesh and bones. Without looking at Meydee she let Meydee lead her to a place where there were fewer people. She forgot Peach Blossom and everything, and like a lost child held her sister's hand tightly. They left the railway station and behind a row of rickshaws the sisters looked at each other. The elder sister had changed. The younger sister had also changed. They looked at each other blankly. Meydee finally asked, �'Sister, where are you going?" "To Tientsin." "What for?" "To find work." Kaodee clutched her little bundle more tightly to hide the trembling of her hands. "What job?" "Don't bother about me. I must go quickly and buy my ticket." "If you don't tell me, you can't go. This is my duty." "What?" "It is my duty." "You?" Kaodee's legs began to tremble. "Don't you know the difference between good and evil-at all?" "I could not help it." Meydee smiled sadly and then became hard again. "Go home quietly. If I let you leave I will be punished." "I am your elder sister." "It makes no difference. If I should let you go there are others who would arrest you." Meydee took out some money and put it in her sister's hand and then drew her sister to the front of the rickshaws. "Will you take a rickshaw or go by tram?" Kaodee did not answer. Her hands and feet had stopped tremb· ling but her face was flushed. Back and forth in her brain went this one idea : "Retribution, retribution. The person who keeps you from leaving is your own sister." "Elder Sister, go home quickly," Meydee said as they walked along. "If you dare to try again to run away I will not be so mild the next time. Without a pass, no one can get out." She called a rickshaw for Kaodee. Kaodee was about to get into the rickshaw when Meydee again took her hand and whispered to her, "Wait a minute, I can fi.n d work for you." 3 92

Kaodee stared at her sister, and the words came through her clenched teeth, "I? I will starve to death before I eat the food you eat." She threw the money her sister had given her back at her sister.

Chapter Four a short distance inside the Great K Front Gate of 'thethe rickshaw city and apologized to the rickshaw puller. AODEE STOPPED

'Tm sorry but I don't need your rickshaw." She gave him a few coppers and walked west. She knew that she must walk awhile to rid herself of the anger burning in her. In a daze she had walked quite a distance before she realized that she was walking along at the foot of the city wall . There was a small temple on the north side of the road. The gate of the temple had not been repaired for years and one of the two leaves was ajar. She walked in, feeling that this was a place where she could sit quietly. There was n_o one inside the gate. The temple buildings on the three sides of the court were in disrepair and un­ kempt, but clean everywhere. Just as she was looking around a man came from the western temple-Mr. Chien, the poet. He wore an old wadded monk's gown that was too short and reached only to his knees . In his hands he carried a large cloth sack on which was written : "Revere and Save the Paper on which there is Writing." He pretended to be a zealot who could not bear to see the written word trodden upon. The old man's face was dark and thin and his hair was very grey. When he saw Kaodee he stood still. Blinking his eyes he remem­ bered her and smiled gently. Then immediately he stopped smiling and almost agitated he asked, "How did you know I was here? Who told you?" Kaodee also smiled. "No one told me. I came by chance." The old man was relieved. In a quiet voice he said, "Don't tell anyone that I am here. This is not my place of living but sometimes I come here. But you-" The old man smiled again. "Tell me what you are doing," he said as they walked toward the main hall. Kao­ dee followed him and they both sat on the stone steps. Kaodee' s words broke the dam and she told him all the events of the past months. The old man listened without a word. Kaodee finally concluded her story with the word "Retribution." The old man having listened to the end was silent awhile before he spoke. "There is no retribution, Kaodee. What is done, we do. There is no retribution." 393

"What shall I do?" "Let me think it over." The old man shut his eyes. Kaodee seemed unwilling to wait and continued, "Meydee wants me to go and be a spy also. What shall I do?" "That is just what I am thinking about. Would you have the courage to go with Meydee?" The old man opened his eyes and looked straight at her. "I-even if I had the courage, I won't go. I cannot work for-" "You have looked at only one side and have not looked at the other. If you were brave enough to join them and tell me every­ thing you know, would that not be very useful?" "Then I should wait for her and join if she asks me?" "Exactly." The old man's eyes searched Kaodee's face. "But, if they once found out, you would immediately die. So I ask you-do you have the courage?" Kaodee hesitated a little. "Uncle Chien, could you give m e something t o do? I would like t o b e with you." "For the time being I cannot employ young women. The Japa­ nese like to train women spies because they do not respect women . They think that women are not brave and are e�sier to control, and -because the Chinese are courteous to women-the women spies can go easily into the interior. As for the Japanese themselves, they are not easily fooled by women. They have everywhere prepared prostitutes to serve their officers and soldiers . Our women spies, even if they dared to sacrifice themselves, would find little oppor­ tunity to approach them. Because of this, unless it is absolutely necessary, I would not ask any woman to help me. But tell me-if Meydee should come for you, would you dare go with her?" "I'll go. But what if she does not come for me?" "Wait for her; and at the same time I will see if there is any place I can use you. If there is, I'll let you know." "I believe you, Uncle Chien. When I return home shall I tell my father about Meydee?" "Tell him. Once you have told him he will surely go to see her at once and go everywhere boasting that his daughter is a member of the secret service. In that way Meydee will be less effective and we will have one less trouble maker." The old man stood up. "And you can consult with Rey Shuan. He is not a brave man but he can think." Kaodee also stood up. "Uncle Chien, where can I find you?" "Here. If I am not here ask the monk Clear Moon who lives in the back court. He is one of us. When you see him you must say to him, 'Respect the Written Word' or he will not trust you." 394

Kaodee started to walk out of the courtyard of the temple with the old man. Seeing the bag in the old man's hands she asked out of curiosity, "Uncle Chien, what is in the bag?" The old man stood still and looked at her, smiling, but did not answer. When they had nearly reached the temple gate the old man told Kaodee to go out first. "Kaodee, remember well. You must not tell anyone about me. Return home and wait for word from either Meydee or me. Don't worry. Act according to circumstances. You are a good girl. I have known that for a long time. Go now." Kaodee went out of the gate by herself and dared not turn her head to look at the temple. She knew that the old man must have a reason for his unwillingness to come out with her. His thin dark face and his kind and gentle smile were still very distinct in her mind's eye. That image seemed to give out !ght and warmth. That image made her feel secure and gave her boundless hope. She thought that if she met Meydee immediately and became a mem­ ber of the secret service she would not bat an eye but face the danger and the sacrifice. What made her most happy was that Mr. Chien had said, "There is no retribution ." This had taken a dark cloud from over her. She was herself and Big Red Pepper was Big Red Pepper. She need not be responsible for her mother and be punished for her. If she but had the courage to do what Mr. Chien told her to do she would be true to her conscience and so be true to everyone. She felt strength in her whole body and walked home without stopping. Kuan the Morning Lotus and Rey Feng were at home chatting idly. When she saw the two, Kaodee's brows drew together. She decided not to be ceremonious with them. She glanced at them and said, "I have just seen Meydee." The two men jumped at the same time, and together asked, "Meydee, Meydee?" "She is in the secret service." Rey Feng was overjoyed and said, "Thank Heaven and thank Earth, Meydee really has something in her. I admire her. I prostrate myself before her." Morning Lotus said to Kaodee, "Where did you see her?" "At the Chien Men Station." "At the Chien Men Station !" Rey Feng spoke, nodding his head. "What did she wear?" "Dressed like a country girl." "Disguise, disguise," Rey Feng commented. Morning Lotus took hold of Rey Feng's arm, "Come let us go to see her." + 395

When they reached the railway station Meydee had already left . "Eldest Brother, leave it to me. I will make inquiries about where she is. I have friends in the secret service. You go on home and I will see you later," Rey Feng said with confidence. "Good, we'll do it that way. I'll wait here awhile and then see you at home." He waited at the railway station for another hour but Morning Lotus still did not see Meydee and so went back home. The next day the seal on the Kuan gate was removed and seven or eight Japanese moved in. All in the Little Sheep Fold hung their heads. In such a small residence street to have two compounds taken by the Japanese made them feel that the spiritual load was too heavy for· them. Because they disliked the Japanese they hated Kuan the Morning Lotus all the more. Morning Lotus looked at the matter from another angle. He gave his explanation to the neighbors . "We must see this clearly. The Japanese and we are one family. That house was mine. Can I not but feel badly? Of course I feel badly. Yet we must look at both sides of the question . Meydee is now employed by them and they are living in my house. Doesn't this mean more intimacy and more friendliness? Certainly." In addition to explanations of this kind, whenever he saw the newly-moved-in Japanese he would bow deeply to them, approach them, and tell them the history of the house. "This compound was-now let me see-fully repaired six years ago. The bricks, the tiles, the wood are all good. No matter how heavy the rain I guar­ antee absolutely there will be no leak. It is a bit too warm in the summer. You must put up a mat-shed. When the shed is up and water is sprinkled on the ground, I tell you sir, you cannot imagine how comfortable you will be." Rey Feng ran around the whole day but was not able to find out where Meydee was. He was impatient. When he saw Morning Lotus he again guar· anteed that on the next day he would find out where she lived . Morning Lotus put 'o n the airs of the head of a family and said, "All right, Rey Feng, do your best. If you run around it will save me steps." Rey Feng was more impatient than Morning Lotus; he had his plans. Suppose he could find Meydee, who knows but that she could introduce him to the right people and he could join the secret service? He was entirely convinced that to be a member of the secret service was the best short cut to riches. Rey Feng used all the methods he knew and found out where 39 6

Meydee lived. He and Morning Lotus, like a pair of explorers, came to the foot of the eastern city wall. The gate was fast shut. They dared not knock but stood respectfully waiting for Meydee to come out. The guard inside the gate had long since seen them. They waited over twenty minutes and as no one came Morning Lotus decided to knock at the gate. He thought that since he was Mey­ dee's father he would be received politely whether Meydee was there or not. But before his hand could touch the gate i� was opened slightly, and the guard, a young Chinese, asked, "What do you want?" "I want to see my little girl, Meydee," Morning Lotus said in a very refined manner. "Go away quickly. Don't make trouble," the guard said. "I see that you are not young so I will not report you. You should know that in this place it is a crime to look toward the right or toward the left." ''Do me a favor. Take a message for me. Kuan Meydee is my daughter-tell her I came to see her." The young guard was exasperated. "I tell you, go away quickly. Who told you she was here?" Morning Lotus quickly pointed to Rey Feng and said, "He." "Go, go," the young guard again said urgently. Morning Lotus and Rey Feng were not willing to leave. Having found the right place, how could they go without having seen Meydee? Just at that moment a Japanese came from inside the compound. Morning Lotus quickly placed his two feet together, preparing to bow to the Japanese. The young guard took out his revolver. Rey Feng wanted to run away but the young guard shouted, "Don't move!" The Japanese nodded and the young guard, pointing with his revolver, told them to go in but before Morning Lotus moved for­ ward he managed to get in a bow to the Japanese. Rey Feng's little dry face had been drained of all color in his fright. When they got inside, the Japanese questioned the guard . At a glance he had seen the intrigue. He was a conqueror and the heart of a conqueror is never at peace and sees ghosts and demons even in the daytime. He first wanted to know how they knew that Meydee was there. Morning Lotus put it all on Rey Feng. Rey Feng wanted to protect the secret service men who had told him but two slaps on his little dry face and he told the truth. When the Japanese heard what Rey Feng told him he decided that the Chinese in the secret service were not reliable. He must immedi397

ately give the whole system a thorough checkup or the system might collapse. Rey Feng was afraid of being beaten again, and without waiting to be asked, gave the names of all the secret service men he knew. The Japanese saw in his own mind that the Chinese underground workers were about to join with the Chinese in the Japanese secret service and that there would be a big uprising. The J;ipanese asked Rey Feng why he had made friends with the men in the secret service. Rey Feng answered, "I would like to be a member of the secret service." This was a good answer but it could not lessen in any way the suspicions of the Japanese. The Japanese asked Morning Lotus how he knew that Meydee was in the secret service. Morning Lotus decided not to wait for the slappings and told about Kaodee. The Japanese began to get busy. After he had put Morning Lotus and Rey Feng in prison, he immediately put all the mem· hers of the secret service w�o had been named by Rey Feng into dark cells to wait for examination.

Chapter Five

HEN TENthe drums inof the evening Morning Lotus had not yet Wreturned, alarm began to beat in Kaodee's heart. BY

o'CLOCK

At first she was rather pleased, for if Morning Lotus and Rey Feng were both detained by the Japanese, Meydee would be punished and Mr. Chien's plan would be successful . On second thought, however, she realized that if the two men were detained the Japanese would not leave her and the Chi family alone. This made her uneasy so she decided to go and warn the Chi family. Yun Mei was still up. She had been waiting to let Rey Feng in. Kaodee explained why she had come, and Yun Mei awakened Rey Shuan. When Rey Shuan had heard Kaodee's story he quickly wakened his grandfather and his mother. He knew that if the Japanese came to investigate they would certainly question the members of the family separately, one by one, and if the stories of the family were not the same there would be trouble. Kaodee again repeated her story. Neither Old Man Chi nor Mrs . Tien Yiu said a word. Rey Shuan was the first to make a suggestion. "We-even if we are tortured-:--m ust not tell about Mr. Chien. Do you agree?" Old Man Chi nodded.

"If the Japanese ask us about the Second, what shall we an­ swer?" Rey Shuan asked. "Tell them the truth," Mrs. Tien Yiu said in a determined voice. "Yes, tell them the truth." Old Man Chi's little eyes were fixed on his knees as he spoke. "His age, his conduct, his past, and his desire to be in the secret service must all be told according to the truth . There is no need to think up tales.' We will tell the truth and whether the Japanese believe us or not depends entirely on them ." The old man lifted his head and looked with his small eyes at each in the group. "The truth-and firmly. I have lived long and am nearly eighty years old. I have always kowtowed first and then opened my mouth but now I understand that to kowtow and say good words does not always bring good results. Now we must be hard." When he had spoken the old man's hands trembled. "What about me, Elder Brother? Shall I also tell the truth?" Kaodee asked Rey Sh uan. "Except for meeting Mr. Chien, tell everything that happened to you. They will certainly make you face Meydee," Rey Shuan said to her. "Then I will probably go to jail." "Why?" Yun Mei asked. "Why was I trying to leave Peiping? I will not be able to get around that." "Still tell the truth." Old Man Chi seemed to have become angry and his voice was loud. "Our lives are all in their hands. Why should we add shame to shame?" Kaodee was silent for a long time before she said, "All right, I'll wait for them." Rey Shuan took her home. It happened exactly as Kaodee expected. It was about five o'clock in the morning when a truckload of Japanese came to the Little Sheep Fold. Temporary guard stations were set up at the entrances to the Little Sheep Fold and under the big locust trees as though there were a battalion of guerillas in that small place. Three J apa­ nese went into Number Six and five went into the Chi home. Old Man Chi was doubly prepared. He had been tempered by the difficulties of these past years and forewarned by the conference of the evening before. He was determined to deal with the Japanese by opposing hardness with hardness. His eyes met theirs squarely and his voice was loud to show that he was not acting in a cere­ monious way. Courtesy and modesty had not saved the life of Tien Yiu, of Little Wen, or of Little Tsui. 399

Four of the Japanese-in four different places-questioned Rey Shuan, Yun Mei, Mrs . Tien Yiu, and Old Man Chi. When they had finished questioning them separately they compared notes and then brought them all together and questioned them again . Old Man Chi's eyes told Rey Shuan and the women that he would like to be the spokesman. Each question the Japanese asked, the old man answered without the least hesitation. When the Japanese asked, "Did you know that he wanted to be in the secret service?" Old Man Chi answered, "We knew." "Why did he want to be in the secret service?" "Because he is no good." "What do you mean?'' "To be willing to do things that hurt Heaven and are against all that is right-is he not no good?" When Mrs. Tien Yiu and Yun Mei heard the old man answer in this way their hearts jumped but the attitude of the Japanese seemed to soften . They all looked at Old Man Chi and asked no more questions. The old man's tall body, white hair, and iron hard words seemed to have a dignity that could not be invaded. Two of the Japanese whispered and then one of them hurried away. Shortly he came back bringing with him the old Japanese woman from house Number One. A sudden light came into Rey Shuan's mind. He had always suspected her and each time they talked he had been on guard. Before long, however, he discovered his mistake. The Japanese pointed to each member of the Chi family and asked the old woman questions . The woman with great deference made short answers. Although they talked in Japanese which Rey Shuan did not understand, from the old woman's attitude and their reactions he saw that she was saying good things about the Chi family. After they had finished questioning the old woman they again questioned Rey Shuan. Rey Shuan's answers agreed with what they had written down and they had no choice but to leave dis­ appointed. The old woman followed them with great deference out of the door. In the courtyard she seized an opportunity to smile at Rey Shuan. Rey Shuan understood her meaning and nodded his head slightly. When the Japanese had left, "the fear after the event" came to Old Man Chi. He sat on the edge of the kang and his hands trembled. In order to comfort the old man Yun Mei forced herself to smile and said, "Now I guess there will be no more trouble." 400

The old man was sileiit a long time before he spoke. "Let them come again . I have lived enough. Should I be afraid of dying?" He shook his head and said, "When one person in the family is no good he can make trouble for all-even down to the chickens and the dogs . You, I, and all the family are to blame. We should not have been so lenient with Rey Feng." "That's so, but still a family is a family. Can we drive him out just because he is no good?" Yun Mei forced herself to smile. "Suppose he gets out of prison tomorrow and comes back home, don't you think we will feed him?" The old man did not say anything more but lay down on the kang. Kaodee was arrested by the Japanese. She could not answer the questions about why she wanted to leave Peiping and why, if she wanted to go, she had not carried out the regulations for leaving town. As she went with them her heart seemed to be more at peace. She said to herself, "Since I could not escape from Peiping-I would still be in prison even if I didn't go to prison-to enter prison is suitable. If the Japanese force me into the secret service I will nod my head and work for Mr. Chien . If they want to kill me, all right. To live is to suffer only." When they arrived at the prison the Japanese quickly brought the sisters face to face and what they said was exactly what they had said before. The Japanese then took them to the Chien Men Station to re-enact the scene. Yet the Japanese would not release Kaodee, because she still could not explain in a satisfactory way why she had wanted to leave Peiping. They were sure it could not have been her own idea; there must be something behind it all . There were, for ex­ ample, secret organizations outside the city especially for helping young people leave Peiping. They had to lock her up and try gradually to get all the facts from her. If much bloodshed could be caused by the silliness of one or two people, what now happened was a very good example. In the Japanese secret service of Peiping a movement was started to re­ form its discipline and to clear out thoroughly the unreliable Chinese. Morning Lotus and Rey Feng knew nothing about the results of their silliness : that it had been so effective as to cause the blood of many, many young people to flow in the dark cells. All the mem hers of the secret service named by Rey Feng were killed. Then the different sections of the secret service seized this 401

opportunity and mutually reported each other until another large number were shut into the dark cells . Meydee, after having been faced with her elder sister, was shut into a dark cell. She had made very good answers to the Japanese. "I let Kaodee go home, not because I wanted to set her free but because I wanted to introduce her here to the secret service." But the Japanese would not accept this explanation . They thought she should have reported this occurrence immediately to her superiors . She should not herself have made the decision to let Kaodee go home. What if Kaodee had not gone home but had escaped to some other place? What then would they have been able to do? Meydee had no answer. The most difficult to deal with were Morning Lotus and Rey Feng. The Japanese investigated their past histories and there was no mistake : they were one-hundred-per-cent "followers." The Japa­ nese brought from Tientsin especially for the occasion two of their most authoritative China experts as connoisseurs to help them judge these two living curios, with the result that on the record chart-listing their appearance, speech, actions, habits, ambitions, and mental attitudes-the average for Morning Lotus was ninety­ eight. Rey Feng's was not so good, he was only ninety-two. Ac­ cording to the China experts those who got a percentage of eighty could be ranked as first-class "followers." Morning Lotus and Rey Feng should rank above the first class and be classed as superior. If the Japanese had acted according to the report of the two China experts they should have at once given important positions in the government to Morning Lotus and Rey Feng. They still, however, did not feel entirely satisfied and again made a careful investigation. They questioned the two men three times every day. The more they questioned them the more they felt the two men to be admirable but the more they also were embarrassed. The Japanese were surprised by the way Morning Lotus bowed, the way he spoke-imitating the Japanese-speaking Chinese in his rhythm and selection of words-and by his many small gestures. They had been in Peiping only three or four years and yet there was actually produced a Sino-Japanese person like this. They asked him, "When your wife died in prison, had you no ill feelings against us?" His answer was so prompt and naive that the Japanese did not know what to do. He had made a deep bow and said, "If you would only give me an official position, and you should dig up my wife's bones and whip them, I would say nothing. Once I become an official I will marry a most beautiful and young wife. If you don't give me 402

a position and there is nothing for me to do, I cannot but think of my wife." "What kind of an official position do you want?" they asked him. "The bigger the better, it does not matter what." The Japanese looked at each other. They loved the collaborators but they also despised the collaborators. They did not know whether to like Morning Lotus or just to despise him . They examined Rey Feng. "What do you want to do?" "I?" Rey Feng rubbed his little dry face and said, "I want to be in the secret service." "Why?" "To make money." Yes, Rey Feng's way of talking and manner were not so ma­ tured and appropriate as Morning Lotus' but his ingenuous out­ spokenness touched the Japanese. To test him they promised to put him in the secret service. He swallowed several times before he could speak. "That is won­ derful." He was so happy when he - had returned to his cell that he was almost crazy. Catching sight of the one who brought his food or any that passed by he would announce, "Have you ever seen a thing like this? I come as a prisoner and have been slapped only twice and now the magic show begins-I am to be in the secret service. Heng! I have luck! You wait and see. As soon as I leave here with a revolver at my belt, the dollar bills will fill my pocket. Ho !" The Japanese could not punish them again, it would not be fair to the report of the two China experts; but they could not make any real use of them in the secret service because their mouths were small broadcasting stations. If they kept them locked up the only expense was a little more food . They could not let them go.

?'HE \/

Chapter Six

WAR in Europe had started. The people of Peiping had not paid much attention to this news : they had their own prob­ lems, they had no time to be concerned with the problems of the world . The Germans captured Warsaw. The Germans occupied Den­ mark. The English and French armies were defeated and- These communiques caine to Peiping like beads on a string, but the peo­ ple of Peiping looked only in the four directions at the spring 40 3

harvest. They hoped anxiously for a good harvest that they might eat new flour. The new wheat in North China was harvested, but the people of Peiping not only did not see the new flour, they did not even see a grain of wheat. On orders from the Japanese all the flour mills and grain shops had ceased to function. The stored grain had been brought out and they were waiting for orders to get the new grain . The large round baskets of woven matting in the grain shops, usually full of many kinds of grain, were turned upside down. Great storehouses for grain were built in Tientsin, Shihchia­ chuang, and Paoting. The Japanese hoarded the grain to prepare for a long war. Of those in the Little Sheep Fold, even Fourth Master Li now had no way to plan. During the last few troubled decades, whether it was when a president took the place of an emperor, or whether Peiping was occupied by foreigners or war lords, he had always been able to find a crevice through which he was able to procure grain, not only for himself but also for others. Today those who sold shaoping had put out their fires. The peddlers who sold wuntun and noodle soup rested at home. He had always in the past announced any bad news to the neighbors, not to make them nervous but to give them a chance to be prepared. Today he hung his head and returned home, daring not to warn them. Old Man Chi lost his temper. Hearing the news that there was no grain he went himself to inspect the big storage jars for holding grain and flour. He hoped to see enough for three more months according to his unchanging prescription for preventing disaster, but he discovered that the jars held enough for only about ten days. His anger flared. He scolded Yun Mei. Why had she not kept his old rules? Yun Mei had reasons which · she could have used to clear her­ self : grain had for a long time been each day more expensive than the day before and every day more difficult to buy than the last; she did not have much money with which to buy nor could she find out where the grain was stored; but she did not argue with the old man. She was an old-fashioned housewife; she was not willing to clear herself and make the old man more angry. Because he shaved the clerks in the grain shops, Sun the Seventh heard more news. He was told that from now on none of the grain shops would be allowed to trade freely. They would grind what the Japanese gave them and then, at fixed prices and fixed hours, 4 04

sell to the citizens on presentation of ration coupons. Except for the times when people went for the grain the clerks in the grain shops had nothing to do. Those with ten on the staff could do with one or two. Chang Shun would soon become a father. He was not as he had been before : he still hated the Japanese but he did not, as he used to, grind his teeth at the mention of a Japanese. He now made the support of his grandmother and his wife of first im­ portance and the affairs of the country took second place. By the time Chang Shun had finished making the uniforms of rags and paper he had learned the customs of the morning mar­ kets. He took the money that John Ting had given him and bought a carrying set-a pole and two baskets . He then became a second­ hand clothing man, beating his little drum through the residence streets of Peiping. Since he had become a dealer in secondhand clothes and rags Chang Shun had not been to see Rey Shuan . When he met Rey Shuan he would mumble a few words and go away. In the presence of Rey Shuan he would think of the person he had been two or three years ago. He then had courage and a warm heart and al­ though he had done nothing noteworthy, he had had the smell of a human being. Now he was ashamed to talk with Rey Shuan. Rey Shuan had realized from the time of his father's death that sooner or later there would be a man-made famine. Since the Japanese had put controls on raw cotton and yarn they were sure not to forget to control foodstuffs. Although he had this foresight, he had not been prepared. He had no margin of money to spare for storing foodstuffs, and besides he was like so many intellectuals, knowing only how to worry and not to think much about the practical side of things. From the time the war had begun in Europe the Japanese had made trouble for the English in Tientsin. Rey Shuan saw the possibility that the Japanese might attack their important military bases in the east. If this was to happen the Japanese had to use every means to gather foodstuff and war material to prepare for the widespread fighting. Many times he had wanted to talk this over with Mr. Goodrich but the old man had always found an excuse to avoid him. The old man knew everything that Rey Shuan knew. He knew the situation was precarious but he forced himself to believe that Japan would not dare to challenge the British Empire. Seeing that the old man did not want to talk Rey Shuan tried to put his mind entirely on his work and forget the worries in his 40 5

heart, but he could not concentrate. Sometimes he would think of the war in Europe and that the whole world was gathering into two camps. China would have allies and the hope of victory. Some­ times he would think of his grandfather, his mother, and his chil­ dren and that they might starve to death. Worrying and hoping his heart became burned out and dry. Little Precious had reached school age but Rey Shuan decided not to let him go to school. His son should not be subjected to a slave's education nor be educated to become a slave. Whenever he had time he would himself teach Little Precious to read and cipher. He also taught the child in detail about Chinese history and civilization . He well knew that this was not in accord with correct teaching methods but this was what he was happiest doing. When he was talking to Little Precious in this way, he could for a time forget the dangers and the shame before him and could see the glorious China of the Chou bronzes and the Han tiles, the Tang poetry and Chin calligraphy, the plum-blossomed hills and the lotus ponds . In order to save kerosene Yun Mei did her sewing in moments snatched during the day and she went to bed early so as not to light the lamp. Even if she lit the lamp the wick was turned low, but in order to teach Little Precious to read Rey Shuan would harden his heart and turn up the lamp. He could not, in order to have a little oil, delay his son's education. This little light in the room seemed to be the only light in the conquered city, a lighthouse in the storm. When it was cold he would take the small hands of Little Precious in to his own inside his long sleeves and face to face tell the boy the history of ancient and modern times . As he lectured to Little Precious the child would begin to nod and he would have to lay him on his bed . In the warm weather the father and son would sit in the courtyard for their work. Little Niu Niu would some­ times-with a show of being a student-sit with them and listen also to the lecture. If Little Precious protested saying, "Niu Niu, you can' t understand," Rey Shuan would say gently and kindly, "Let her listen, she can understand." One day as he was talking with the boy Rey Shuan suddenly remembered the man-made famine that was to come and felt sud­ denly cold all over. He saw a child dying of starvation, a child who looked like Little Precious and was so thin he was only skin and bones. He could not go on with his talk. He said to Little Precious, "You had better go to bed."

Chapter Seven � HE SUMMER MORNING was such a one as only Peiping could \/ have. The bright sunshine slanted through the pure, cool air, and there was a sharp distinction between black and white-the light very bright, the shadow very dark. The air was cool and the sunshine warm. Where these merged the coolness began to become warm and the warmth to have a touch of coolness. Even a place as humble as the Little Sheep Fold had its own scenes of beauty. Where the lower parts of the old locust trees were stiII in shadow the leaves were deep green and where the sun shone on the tops of the trees the light yellow flowers turned to gold. Light green caterpiIIars hung on threads of fine white silk, the upper parts of which were silver threads in the sunshine. The morning breeze blew and the fine silk threads moved as though they were the lute strings of the morning sun. The sun shone first on Fourth Master Li's gate. The low gate roof was not in good re­ pair and in the cracks between the tiles grew fine long grasses . When the sunshine reached them this old gate roof had its patches of sunshine and of shadow and the bright green grass was alive. Swallows flitted and swooped around the branches-flash after flash-like black lightning. The dragonflies flew high. Suddenly a blood-red one would glance by the flowers on the top of the locust tree and soar into the zenith, or one with a back of jade would flit for a moment over the green grass on Fourth Master's gate roof and then suddenly turn and fly away. In times of peace such a day would have made the old go outside the city carrying their singing birds in cages . Walking along the willow banks or by the pools full of reeds they would find an open­ air tea shop and drink tea . Days like this would make those who loved pigeons send a few tens of the gaily colored birds into the blue sky to circle and turn. Days like this could also make the fishermen leave the city very early and find quiet spots to amuse themselves the whole day. Even those who did not care to leave the city and take the long walk could hire small boats in the North Sea Park, or go to Central Park for a stroll under the ancient cedar trees . But today the people of Peiping had no heart to lift their faces to heaven, to the sky where the swallows and the dragonflies darted . The black shadow of starvation covered their eyes. On this morning Yun Mei went to fetch the flour. She knew 40 7

that from now on she must let the way of living of the past, even though it had not been especially luxurious, be a memory. Before her were difficulties and famine. She must grit her teeth and do her duty with composure and no complaints . She put a smile on her face for the family as if to say, "I am still smiling, why should you be worried?" Yun Mei having cooked breakfast for the family waited until all had eaten and the dishes were washed before she tidied herself and changed to a clean blue gown. She wrapped the ration card in a small handkerchief and tied it to her wrist. She took the gra�n sack and walked out very composedly. vVhen she got to the other side of the spirit screen she went back to say to the children, "Little Precious, Niu Niu, you must not be naughty. Have you heard?" Niu Niu answered first. "Mother get food-Niu Niu good-no fuss." Little Precious said to his mother, "Buy white flour. We don't want mixed flour." He was speaking of the mixture of ground millet, corn meal, and soybean flour that the poor used to make bread. It was nourishing and fragrant but not as pleasant as wheat flour to eat. Yun Mei said as she walked out, "It'll be what they give me." It was still early-not much after eight. Yun Mei was sure she would not be late, and as the place where the grain was to be given out was the shop she had bought from in the past, she thought that even if she were a bit late there would be some lati­ tude given her. All were well known to each other. There would be some way to manage. When she neared the shop her heart turned cold. People were packed densely in a wide queue three or four blocks long. She knew it would not help but she hastened her steps and stood at the back of the queue. The doors of the shop were fast closed and she did not understand what that meant. She was sorry that she was late. If she had to stay until noon who would cook for the old people and the children? Her big eyes looked to the east and to the west trying to find a familiar face. She wanted to make inquiries and find out what it was all about, and when the grain would be distributed. But there was not a single acquaintance · nearby. Prob­ ably they had come a couple of hours ago and were standing at the very front so that they could get their grain earlier. In front of her was an old woman who had brought a little stool . A middle­ aged woman had brought a parasol. When she had first arrived all the people had been standing quietly and even when talking to each other had been whispering, 40 8

daring not to raise their voices. Besides those in the queue there were about ten policemen to keep order; among them were two or three who carried whips with leather thongs . At the sight of the whips all those who whispered closed their mouths at once. The sun had become stronger and the shade narrower, and all began to feel impatient. Sounds came from those in front and behind, and the eyes and feet of the policemen began to be active. At first, wherever the eyes of the police rested there would be quiet for a while and when the eyes of the police left, there would again be complaints. Thus there was murmuring first on one side and then the other and quiet in between. Gradually, however, the eyes of the police lost their effect. The people in the queue, from one end to the other, became like a moving train, making a noise all down the line. Yun Mei became worried. She was afraid of a disturbance and she was not used to being pushed about in the streets. She thought of returning home, but thinking of her responsibility she changed her mind. She must take back grain. She warned herself to be careful and not be afraid. The hot sun shone on her head. At first she felt only that her head was hot but after a while her scalp began to itch and she was most uncomfortable. Gradually she began to perspire all over. She lifted her head and looked at the sky. It was no longer bright blue but everywhere was a shimmering white light. The breeze had stopped. The leaves of the trees by the side of the road were covered with dust, and without motion. Clouds of dust, greyish white dust, loaded with the stench of the urine of horses, mules, and camels, rose with each passing cart and irritated her eyes and nose. She untied the little kerchief on her wrist and wiped the sweat from her face and then held the kerchief tightly in her hand . She saw Sergeant Pai and immediately her heart was more at peace. Sergeant Pai's kindness made her believe that where he was there was no danger of a disturbance. She nodded to him and he came over. "Mrs. Chi, why didn't a man come?'' She did not answer his question but smiling asked him, "Sergeant Pai, why don't they distribute the flour?" "The grain was sent to the shops only last evening and they spent the night grinding it. They will distribute it after a while to all." Another hour passed and still there was no sign of the distribu­ tion . Sergeant Pai's words lost their soothing effect. The people all thought the Japanese were purposely making mock of the poor. The sunshine was hotter than ever and made all their heads sticky 40 9

with perspiration . The more they sweated the more thirsty they became and the more impatient. The sky now became greyish and there seemed to be greyish dust floating in the air. The sun above this greyish air was very small, very white, and very bright so that people dared not open their eyes. They bent their heads and the hot light seemed to be red-hot needle points stinging their heads, shoulders, backs, and every unsheltered place. Those who had empty stomachs began to feel dizzy; those who were thirsty wanted to shout; even Yun Mei felt irritated. But no one dared to cry openly, "Down with Japan." Those who were thirsty swallowed desperately; those who were dizzy steadied themselves against the others; those whose legs ached gently stamped their feet. To ward off the sunshine some put their hand­ kerchiefs on their heads, some put their sacks on their shoulders, and some took off their jackets to hold above their heads making tiny sheds . Suddenly there was a wave of motion at the front and the queue fanned out. Yun Mei stood on her toes and looked hut the big gates were still closed. She could not guess what had happened but there was more hope in her heart. She thought it must have been some news of the distribution. She forgot that her feet ached, she forgot the poisonous sunshine, and thought only of the grain and hoped for it to come at once so she could take it home-. In the front a few men began to cheer. Yun Mei left the line and standing on her toes and stretching she understood. At the side of the gate of the shop was a recently opened hole, boarded over. These boards had been moved half aside. Many, many hands, waving their sacks and their money were stretched toward the hole. She did not want to push forward but those waving hands at the front seemed to say that only by moving forward could she get the grain and not be a mere bystander, just watching the show. The whip sounded, . "Shih-pa, shih-pa." The sunshine suddenly became cold. There was a chill wind in the hot air. Goose flesh ap­ peared on Yu!J Mei's arm. Her legs refused to move even though she wanted to run quickly away. In front all was confusion-peo­ ple bumping each other, pushing each other, and shouting. She seemed to be riding a whirlwind. Everything was moving but she did not take her feet off the ground. "No matter what happens I must get the grain," she heard herself saying and new strength came to her legs . Very bravely she stood as though rooted. Suddenly she could not see. The tip of the whip had flicked the corner of her eye. She covered her eyes with her hands and forgot everything and knew only that the world was dark. Instinctively she 410

wanted to crouch but could not. She wanted to go away but could not move. She still felt no pain because her mind and body were numb. Fright had for the moment deadened her nerves . "Mrs. Chi." This sound seemed to come through her daze. "Go home quickly." She opened the unhurt eye a little and saw part of a uniform and guessed that it was Sergeant Pai. Still covering her eye with her hand she shook her head. She could not go home empty­ handed; she must take the grain home. "Give me the sack, the money, and the ration card. I will get the grain for you. Go home quickly." Sergeant Pai almost snatched the sack from her. "Can you walk?" Yun Mei was beginning to feel the pain in her face but gritted her teeth and nodded . Still covering her eyes she started dazedly home. Her legs began to give way as she reached their home gate and she sat on the steps . When she took her hands away from her face she saw her own blood . The sweat dripping into the wound hurt as though fine salt had been put in. Gritting her teeth she stood up and walked into the courtyard. Little Precious and Niu Niu were playing under the southern wall. Seeing their mother they flew over to meet her. But imme­ diately they cried, "Great-grandfather, Grandmother, come quickly." The family, old and young, surrounded her. With her eyes cov­ ered and enduring the pain she said, "It's not important, nothing serious." Mrs. Tien Yiu told Yun Mei to wash the wound while she went into her room to find powder for the treatment. The two children would not leave their mother but followed her step by step. Little Niu Niu sucked in her breath without stopping and then pouting out her little mouth she said, "Mother's bleeding, Mother hurts ." When she had washed her wound Yun Mei discovered that she had been hurt at the side of the eye, and that fortunately the eyeball was not injured . She felt relieved . After putting on some powder she told them with a few words, "Some people were push­ ing and the policemen used their whips. I was hurt by mistake." Making light of it in her report was to lessen the worry of the old people. She knew that she would have to go again and again for grain and she did not want them to worry about her each time. Her wound was paining her but still she wanted to prepare their lunch. Mrs. Tien Yiu stopped her and went herself to the kitchen . Old Man Chi ordered his granddaughter-in-law to go to bed and rest. 41 1

Yun Mei took a nap. When she woke she looked into the mirror and saw that her face was swollen. She said to herself, "I will know next time how to take care of myself. 'The first time strange the second time wonted.' " Sergeant Pai brot1ght the grain, a small bagful, looking to be about four or five catties . Old Man Chi received the sack and started to talk with Sergeant Pai. Although Sergeant Pai was very busy he was not willing to set down the sack and go away at once. He was perturbed about Yun Mei's wound and he wanted to give her an explanation. Yun Mei came out of her room and Sergeant Pai began to talk. "I-Mrs. Chi, I didn't order them to use the whip, I could not stop them. They were not my own people . . They were sent from the higher station especially for this occasion . Mrs . Chi, are you all right now? I tell you, I need not tell you how sorry I am. We are old neighbors. To be beaten when going for grain, really- But there was nothing I could do. Hum ! I really dare not think how many have felt the whip today. I am a 'running dog' and I cannot keep the other running dogs from striking people with their whips. What is there to say? Well-Mrs. Chi, rest and take care of yourself. The days for us to suffer will be long and many." Sergeant Pai had said this in one stretch, giving no one a chance to reply, and when he had spoken he went out. Old Man Chi went to the gate to give him the ceremonious farewell but by the time he got there Sergeant Pai had already gone a long distance. The old man had wanted to protest but Sergeant Pai had not given him a chance to open his mouth. He felt that Sergeant Pai was lovable and also hateful, honest and yet sly. Mrs. Tien Yiu and her daughter-in-law had poured the flour into a large green glazed basin . They could not tell what grain it was. They sent for the old man to tell them. The old man stood looking at it awhile and shook his head. Bending over he felt of it with his hand and again shook his head. He squatted beside the basin and both looked and felt of it and again shook his head. He had lived over seventy-five years and had never seen flour like this. In the basin was a mixture of stuff of all colors . It looked like the powder of tea leaves or herb medicines that have become damp. It was not bran because it was coarser than bran, it was not chaff because it was finer than chaff, but he was sure it was not flour. The old man took up a handful and looked at it carefully. Some of the ingredients were like pieces of yellow corn. Although it had been ground it had refused to become flour. Some of the in412

gredients though fine were dark green in color. The old man thought awhile and realized that this must be soybeans after the oil was extracted-stuff usually used as fertilizer or feed for draft ani­ mals . Some of the ingredients were black and shiny-kaoliang husks, the old man decided . Some were-the old man did not want to look further; he had looked enough. He smelled it. This dark green mass not only did not have the fragrance of grain it was sour and smelled mildewed . It was puckery and evil smelling as if it had been dug out of a rat's hole . The old man's hands began to shake. He put the "flour" he held on his palm back into the basin, stood up and walked into his room without saying a word. Little Precious followed the old man and asked, "Great-grand­ father, what is it after all?" The old man shook his head very slowly and did not answer. It seemed as though this "flour" showed not only that his knowledge was not extensive enough, it also repudiated his worth as a human being. Man had become equal to swine. Yun Mei decided to try the queer flour and see if she could make anything out of it-chiaotse, noodles, bread. She mixed water with it. Some of the queer stuff stuck immedi­ ately like paste to her hands and the side of the basin, and part-no matter whether she used cold water or hot-refused to stick to­ gether at all. If she used little water nothing happened, if she used more everything floated like water bugs swimming. After spending a lot of time and having tried many ways she finally made a dough. But no matter what she did she could not roll it thin, so chiaotse and noodles were definitely not possible. She decided to try to shape it in her hands to make bread, but whether she patted it gently or kneaded with strength that queer stuff did not want to stay in one piece. Born in Peiping, Yun Mei knew how to handle all flour-made foods . To say nothing of wheat flour, she knew how to make buck­ wheat flour, oatmeal, and bean flour into edible things . But now she had found something she could not handle. She went to her mother-in-law for help. Mrs. Tien Yiu, with her age and experience, was not going to let this bit of flour get the better of her. She looked at it, felt it, rolled it, flattened it out, pressed it, but none of these things worked . "I've lived a lifetime and never have I seen such unmanageable stuff," the old woman said. "It's just like the Japanese. Whatever nasty there is to do, they do it," Yun Mei commented, half-laughing and half-crying. 41 3

Mother-in-law and daughter-in-law experimented a long time like two scientists. They finally decided to try the most primitive method-to get the flour more or less together, cut the "dough" into pieces and roast it over the fire in the sieve-like earthenware oven. In this way, although it was not a piece of bread nor a cake, they were able to cook the queer mess. "All right, you rest awhile, I can manage," Yun Mei said to her mother-in-law. And then she alone, as though making mud bricks, baked them one piece after another, and at the same time she made a salad of young onions and cucumbers. Old Man Chi, Mrs. Tien Yiu, and the two children sat around a small table in the courtyard, waiting to taste the queer stuff. Little Precious was ex­ cited and shouted, "Mother, bring it quickly, quickly." Yun Mei brought in the bricks and the salad . Little Precious broke off a piece and put it in his mouth. Before he had had a chance to taste it a chunk caught in his throat. He choked. His little face turned purple and tears came to his eyes. "Quickly, drink water," his grandmother said to him. He flew to the kitchen and got a drink. Old Man Chi broke off a small piece, put it in his mouth and chewed carefully. It was foul tasting. He was not afraid of coarse grain but he could . not endure foul grain. He decided, however, to swallow it. He was the old man of the family and he should set a good example. With great effort he swallowed the foul stuff. Then he called to the kitchen, "Mother of Little Precious, make a little soup, even if it's only water boiled with a few dried shrimps." He knew that without soup to wash it down he could eat no more. "Soup is coming," Yun Mei called from the kitchen. She also asked, "How is it after all?" The old man did not answer. Niu Niu broke off a tiny piece and put it into her mouth . She lifted it on her tongue and did not chew it. Without any ceremony she spat it out immediately, and then looking out of the corners of her little eyes at her great-grandfather, she said .shyly, "Niu Niu is not hungry." Little Precious came with his mother bringing the soup. It was, after all, only water with · a few dried shrimps. Little Precious sat down again and again broke off a piece and said with a smile, "See whether this time you will choke me or not." Yun Mei seeing that Niu Niu's mouth was not moving asked her, "Niu Niu, why don't you- Come, Mother will give you a piece of cucumber."

"Niu Niu is not hungry," Niu Niu said with her head hanging. "You must eat it. From now on we will eat this every day," Yun Mei said with a smile, a very forced smile.

Chapter Eight '1AT CHRYSANTHEMUM did not get the Directorship of the Bureau V for the Inspection of Prostitutes. Because so many people wanted the position, the Japanese did away with the office and placed control of the camp followers under the military head­ quarters . Fat Chrysanthemum quarreled bitterly many times with Lan the Eastern Sun. She felt that her defeat was entirely because Eastern Sun had not used all his abilities in her behalf. When rationing came in, Eastern Sun regretted that he had not tried to get the position for Fat Chrysanthemum. If his wife had the position of director, would they not have been able to get much more grain? He decided to get a fat post for himself. He began to investigate which bureaus were fat and which lean . The more he investigated the angrier he became. Who would have thought that some of the offices, especially the military ones, not only gave more and better food but also gave cigarettes and tea? Why had he not long ago entered one of these departments? From the study of government bureaus he went on to the study of other organizations. He discovered that the students in the School of Railway Administration were fed by the government . "Ah, to be the headmaster of that school-the headmaster. Con­ . sider three hundred students-if from each I take one catty of grain that would be three hundred catties a month. Three hundred catties ! All my goods and chattels ! What an opportunity ! Every month I will discharge a few students and several full portions will fall into my hands. Ai ya, ai ya, why had I not thought of this long ago?" He decided to start making moves to become the headmaster of this school. There was, however, no vacancy in the School of Railway Administration. Eastern Sun had an inspiration-plant evidence against the present headmaster, stating that he hid spies from Chungking. Would that not in one stroke unseat him? Eastern Sun immediately saw numberless sacks of flour piled up in his own house. In order to get those sacks of flour he must arrest a few pupils, beat them until they owned to contact with Chungking, and then the headmaster of the school would also be put in prison . 41 5

For the sake of flour, what would the lives of a few people matter? He decided to go first to see Commissioner of Education Niu and get some information. When he reached the Little Sheep Fold he went to the big gate with the four willow trees but it happened that Commissioner Niu was not at home. As Eastern Sun turned to go he came face to face with Morning Lotus and Rey Feng. Morning Lotus and Rey Feng had just been released because the Japanese could find nothing for which to convict them and did not want to waste any more food on them. There was no color in Rey Feng' s little dry face. His first idea was to strike Eastern Sun but he did not move his hands. He dared not fight even when he was face to face with the man who had taken away his wife. Eastern Sun knew very well that Rey Feng dared not fight but still he was frightened. His green face became even greener. Morning Lotus opened his mouth first. "Eastern Sun, my old brother, I have so longed for you." Eastern Sun looked at the two of them and seeing their shabby appearance thought to go on without speaking to them. Morning Lotus nailed him to the spot with one word . "Old Brother, did you know that Meydee is in the secret service?" Eastern Sun congratulated himself, "It is lucky I didn't offend him," and called out immediately, "Oh, Elder Brother Kuan ." He had his own secret police but he thought that Meydee was prob­ ably in the military secret service. The secret police of the military could oppress with impunity the secret service of the civil officials . When Rey Feng saw that Morning Lotus had cornered Eastern Sun he also exhibited his cunning. "Eastern Sun, if you must know, I also am in the secret service." As he spoke he put his hand under his coat as though to feel for his gun . Eastern Sun really thought that h e should invite them t o his home. If Meydee and Rey Feng were both in the secret service he would use them to plant the evidence against the headmaster of the School of Railway Administration . Military people had special powers and privileges, and if any trouble should come of the plant they had no connection with him. Eastern Sun did not invite them to a meal but said, "If you come to my place tomorrow, you must both change your clothes. People of position often come to my place." The shabby clothes they were wearing made him doubt if Meydee and Rey Feng were really in the secret service. Rey Feng had a sudden inspiration. "This is my disguise. Wher41 6

ever I go I dress this way." Eastern Sun quickly began to smile . "All right, see you tomorrow." That evening when Rey Shuan came home late, Morning Lotus was sitting on the steps outside the Chi family house. Seeing Rey Shuan he stood up quickly and said, "Ah, Rey Shuan, the Second and I have come out in peace and without trouble. Can you-" Before he had finished speaking Rey Shuan had pushed open the gate, gone in, and put on the bolts . Yun Mei quietly told him, "The Second has come back." He said not a word and went to his . own room. Morning Lotus having struck his head against the nail of Rey Shuan's anger stood looking vacantly at the house that had been his . He thought of· the past, of himself, of Big Red Pepper, Peach Blos­ som, and of the daughters . He could not understand how he could have come to his present low station . He could think of no fault of his own. If there was really retribution, how could this be retri­ bution since he had committed no crimes? Kuan the Morning Lotus now had no place to live. He sighed deeply and walked out of the Little Sheep Fold. His stomach began to rumble. Hunger was the most urgent problem and he forgot everything else. He thought only of how soon he could eat something. He decided to go to Eastern Sun. He knew that Eastern Sun was a miserly devil but he had enough confidence in his own tongue to believe that he could talk the devil into doing what he wanted. Eastern Sun, from his experience in seeking favors from the Japanese, knew that those who wanted jobs urgently would come before the appointed time. He acted that way himself. Therefore, seeing Morning Lotus come this evening, he immediately began to have doubts . If Morning Lotus was so anxious to get his help, this very anxiety showed that probably his daughter was not in the secret service. As soon as he saw Morning Lotus he said, "Tell me, is Meydee really there?" Morning Lotus acted as though he had been stung by a wasp. "Ai ya, how can you doubt my word? Ai ya, would I use the affairs of the Japanese for light conversation?" Eastern Sun felt that Morning Lotus was probably telling the truth . "Tell me, where can I find her?" "Na-" Morning Lotus did not dare tell him the place·. He did not want to go to prison again. "You know that it is not allowed to tell where the secret service place is." 417

"If I can't seek her, what more is there to be said? What about you? You can't seek her either." "I?" Morning Lotus was at a loss as to the best answer. "Well, don't waste any more of my time. Since you can't get her I'll just have to use Rey Feng." "Rey Feng? He was cheating you. If he is in the secret service I am the Emperor of Japan ." "Morning Lotus, how dare you in my presence take the name of the Emperor of Japan lightly." Eastern Sun stood up, rolled his eyes to heaven, and bowed deeply to the east. "Ohhh-I was at fault, I apologize." "You and Rey Feng are both cheats . Roll away." "I have not yet eaten, Eastern Sun." "This is not a restaurant. Roll away." Morning Lotus' face became as green as Eastern Sun's . The cold sweat came out on his head and he slowly started to walk out. When he had reached the front gate he said to Eastern Sun, "Eastern Sun, I will not take this to heart. Your attitude is right. Suppose you were I and I were the department head, would I not have treated you this way also? Right, you are right. It should be this way. But you must remember-Meydee is really in the secret service. One of these days when I see her-well, you had better prepare." Then he turned round and started to go straight out. Eastern Sun went after him. If he knew nothing else he knew the terror of the military secret service. He seized Morning Lotus. "I will give you a meal." He thought he could buy Morning Lotus off with one meal. Morning Lotus' face was again wreathed in smiles. While this was going on at Eastern Sun's house Rey Feng was in his own room and had not dared to come out and greet his brother. He was afraid his brother would curse him as his grand­ father had done. The next morning he waited until his brother had left for his office before he got up. After he had eaten he hid again in his room to decide whether he should really go to see Eastern Sun or not. When he thought of Chrysanthemum he was ashamed to go. When he thought that perhaps Eastern Sun would give him work to do he wanted very much to go. He had lied yesterday to Eastern Sun. What would he do if Eastern Sun really wanted to use a secret service man? He thought for a long time and then he smiled. "Cover the pot and let it boil. We'll see what happens when it happens." He decided to go to see Eastern Sun. He felt that there was great merit in the "blind cat hunting for a dead mouse" 41 8

method. He shaved carefully, changed to clean clothes both inside and out, asked his sister-in-law for some change, and then with an "all is new" air went out. The day was very fine and fresh, for although the temperature was high, a little breeze blew from time to time which made people feel comfortable. Rey Feng lifted his little dry face to the breeze and every few steps he would stretch his arms to let the cool air blow into his armpits. It made him look as though he were flying like an angel . He forgot his grandfather's scolding, and the discomforts of prison, and thought only of how to co-operate with Eastern Sun to create a new way of living for himself. When he reached the Lan house he stood a long time, unable to decide whether to knock at the gate or not. Suddenly it was opened. A young man very politely asked Rey Feng to come in. Rey Feng hesitated no longer but followed the young man into the gate. In his heart he said, "Eastern Sun is really expecting me. The way opens." Eastern Sun and another young man were standing in the court­ yard. Rey Feng was afraid of seeing Fat Chrysanthemum and yet he wanted to see her. He heard a cough in the house which sounded like Chrysanthemum's. Eastern Sun's green face was turned so that he looked directly at Rey Feng. Rey Feng smiled foolishly. Eastern Sun rolled up his eyes and spoke. "You said you were in the secret service. Was it true?" Rey · Feng, used to telling lies, hardened the skin of his face and said , "Could that be false?" Eastern Sun asked the two young men, "Have you heard him?" The two young men nodded and then walked over to Rey Feng. One on each side they held him between them. Rey Feng could not guess what this meant and felt disturbed . He asked, "What is it? What is it?" "You pretend to be in the secret service." Eastern Sun lifted his hand. "Take him away." The following morning, Rey Shuan was leaving the courtyard. When he got on the other side of the spirit screen he saw that there was a small parcel wrapped in paper. His heart jumped. He recognized the paper as Japanese. The fine white twine on the parcel was also Japanese. He suddenly picked up the parcel and took off the string. Inside was one of Rey Feng's gowns . As he held the gown to his chest, his tears suddenly fell. He disliked the Second but after all they were born of the same mother. 41 9

Quietly he opened the gate and sought Sergeant Pai. When he had found Sergeant Pai he said very simply, "Our Second went out yesterday wearing this long gown. This morning someone from outside threw it over the wall. It was wrapped up carefully." Sergeant Pai looked at Rey Shuan and he looked at the gown. Then he nodded. "When they have killed anyone they always send back a garment. Old Second is probably finished." Sergeant Pai sighed. "Hum, the Second was not much good but still he had done nothing to merit capital punishment." He opened his record book of the families . "Mr. Chi, this long gown is official notice." As he spoke he ran a black line through the name of Rey Feng in his book.

Chapter Nine .,.,HE PEOPLE OF PEIPING, no matter what happened to them, \..! would not give up their humor. In front of the "Bright and Swift" barber shop was set an advertisement : "For Ten Cents We Do Everything-Haircut, Shave, and Shampoo." On the other side of the street the "Double Luck" barber shop immediately put out their advertisement : "For Ten Cents We Respectively Offer to Clean Your Ears and Give You a Massage As Well as Haircut, Shave, and Shampoo." The "Peach Garden" barber shop on the left put up its advertisement : "For Eight Cents We Will Make You Up to Look Like Tyrone Power." The "Prosperous" barber shop on the right quickly put out : "For Seven Cents We Will Do Everything and Without a Tip From Tyrone ·rower." Sun the Seventh, in the past, would work for seven or eight hours a day before he could finish his rounds. Now after only an hour or two he had finished the work for the day. The shops had laid off so many men they could not keep him busy; and also, because the small barber shops had their price-cutting orgy, some of the shopkeepers had fired him and went where they could spend less. Sun the Seventh had then to think of some other way to make a living. He was a self-respecting man and although his skill was not of the highest order he was used to contract work in the shops and felt that he should have a high rating such as that of an expert technician. He could not, therefore, go onto the streets and join the young barbers of thirteen or fourteen who had just finished their apprenticeships, and serve rickshaw pullers and peddlers. In the past his clothes had always been clean. Every morning with 420

the little cloth parcel, in which his tools of trade were wrapped, under his arm he felt like an artist going to an exhibition. He certainly could not go on the streets to do business. Now he had no way but to go on the street. He had always been shortsighted and now his eyes were becoming blurred because of the tears in them. He was fond of idle chatter and since there was nothing that he understood very well he dared to chat freely about anything. This idle chatter made him feel that he was not a know-nothing but a know-everything. But now he shut his m outh . He must, like Cheng Chang Shun, wander the streets, get his body covered with dust till he looked like a mud demon in a temple. Every morning he still went to those few shops where he had been working for so many years . By the time he had finished with them the day had not come to noon. What should he do all after­ noon? If he sat at home the ceiling would not drop coins on him. There was nothing else to do, so he bought a barber's fork, and with his white cloth parcel under his arm and striking the fork, he walked the streets to pick up retail trade. As he listened to the fork "twang, twang," his heart ached . He had worked for twenty or thirty years and had come to this . Some time ago he had even dared to refuse to shave Morning Lotus . Now whoever beckoned to him was the God of Wealth. He dared not strike the fork in the neighborhood of the Little Sheep Fold. He had to go where no one knew him. After he had wandered the whole afternoon through the far streets he would­ when still some distance from home-hide the barber's fork, brush the dust from his shoes and shake it from his clothes, before he would go back home. Sometimes the young barbers recognized him. They would call loudly to him, "Master Sun, you also have come down to the streets." This would make him blush suddenly so that even the roots of his hair were red . In order to avoid this kind of unpleasant­ ness he began to select the small quiet residential streets. But the smaller the streets, the poorer the people and he could find no business there. The days were very hot. In the small streets the houses were close together and the trees few. Sun the Seventh had to walk in these streets. The walls baked hot by the sun burned his face and his body. After going through a few of these streets he could smell his own rancid sweat. His socks stuck to his feet like two cakes of mud. There was heat everywhere; he could not even find a place to sit awhile. In his stomach there was only Republic flour and 42 1

cold water, on his body was stinking sweat and dust, and his mind was filled with worry and humiliation. Hunger, heat, weariness, and worry had ruined his body's ability to handle his food. He constantly had diarrhea. As he walked around the streets he would often have a sudden pain and would have to sit down quickly and massage his abdomen. His face would turn green, and cold sweat would come out all over him. His bowels seemed to be twisted cords, and golden stars danced before his eyes. The pain would make him feel that his body was cut in two . There would be a sudden singing in his ears as though a swarm of mosquitoes were buzzing around him. His mind would then whirl round and round, and the more it turned the faster it turned until gradually the singing went further and further away, and everything becoming black before him, he lost consciousness . When he opened his eyes he would sometimes still be sitting and sometimes he would be lying on the ground. He wanted to remain still-his mind and body unwilling to move-but his bowels still pained and he had to get up. Groaning and with great difficulty he would rise. Sun the Seventh had no money to go to a doctor nor was he willing to buy ready-made medicine. When the pain was too great he would drink a bowl of wine. The hot wine would numb his stomach for a time and make him more comfortable. But the stimulation made his bowels even weaker and more liable to illness . His shortsighted eyes had sunk deeply and his face was nothing but black skin wrapping the bones . His hands shook constantly as he worked. In his heart he knew that he was not much longer for this world. A few days before the seventh of the Seventh Month, the anni­ versary of the "incident" at the Marco Polo Bridge, he again fell unconscious on the street. When he came to he wondered how it was that he lay in a big truck. He felt it strange but had not the energy to ask what was happening. How long they had been moving he did not know. He felt only that suddenly the truck was not moving and that some­ body had pulled him out of the truck. His eyes were still half closed and, although his bowels felt better, he was very, very tired . In a half stupor he walked into a large room. There was nothing in the room except a few people lying around. He found a corner and sat down. He could not gather together enough energy to look at anything or to ask anything. He could smell the strong odor of carbolic acido This nauseated him and made him feel very uncom­ fortable. 422

After a long time he heard someone calling to him . The voice sounded familiar. He blinked his eyes and looked searchingly. The voice again spoke, "I, Kuan the Morning Lotus ." Sun the Seventh was frightened when he heard the name Kuan the Morning Lotus . He did not know why he had been dragged to this place nor what the place was, and he had not thought of danger; but hearing the words "Kuan the Morning Lotus" the thoughts of danger and calamity came immediately. Morning Lotus had on a short white jacket and although it was not very clean it was carefully buttoned . He had on an old pair of blue cotton trousers which were torn at the knees, and he was constantly trying to cover the torn places with his hands. His face was dark and thin . He still smiled, but because the bones of his face showed so sharply, the smile was not as charming as usual. There were many wrinkles on his forehead and in the wrinkles was fine dried white skin as though scorched by the sun . He con­ stantly tried to rub away this fine white skin with his fingers and then wiped his forehead with his sleeve. Since the meal at Eastern Sun's he had barehanded sponged and cheated for his food. He had become a swindler and a beggar. He had suffered to the extreme the coldness of friends, insults, hunger, and thirst, but he had not given up hope. He thought constantly of Meydee. In his mind Meydee was almost a goddess who, al­ though she could not immediately give him food and drink, could protect him spiritually. Sun the Seventh looked at him, and then looked again, until he saw clearly; but this made him even more confused . What was Morning Lotus doing here? Judging by his appearance Morning Lotus had also been dragged here, but why? Angrily Sun the Seventh asked, "What are you doing here? Who are you trying to harm now?" Morning Lotus drew up his legs and held his stomach with both hands. "Cramps in the belly !" Sun the Seventh broke out in a cold perspiration. Cramps in the belly were not crimes, he knew; but that Morning Lotus had cramps and had also been hauled here-certainly sounded like trouble. "His mother's --! " he swore. "I, Sun the Seventh, if I have to die with this fellow my finish will be dreadful ." Morning Lotus, who was still rubbing his belly, ignored Sun the Seventh's curses and began to tell of his own affairs . "It's not been a day only. The trouble is all caused by my love of rich food. Each day I must have four ounces of ham cooked in soy sauce or half a roast chicken to go with my wine. Good meats do not mix well 42 3

with Republic flour. That's why-" He again gritted his teeth . His belly seemed to be punishing him for his lies. When the pain was over he went on, "So many people have recommended me to jobs since I moved away from the Little Sheep Fold but I would not accept any of them. Since Meydee has such a good job why should I, an old man, tire myself out? Every day I invite a few friends-sometimes I also have a few Japanese friends-to sit with me in tea pavilions or to go fishing. The Japa­ nese friends have said to me many times, 'Mr. Kuan' -they always address me as Mister-'you really must come out and help us.' I just smile and say to them, Tm getting old. Let my daughter help you. I enjoy my leisure.' " Sun the Seventh knew that Morning Lotus was lying and he also knew it would be better to ignore him, but he could not con­ trol his anger. "All my goods and chattels ! Starved to this state and still talking about the Japanese. What kind of a Thing are you?" "Sun the Seventh, when you talk to me you should not use those ugly words." "If I had any strength I would wring your neck." "Oh, you are also suffering from the cramps. Don't worry. This is a hospital. When the Japanese doctor comes he will give us some medicine. Japanese medicine is good, good . Then we will go away." Sun the Seventh had never been in a hospital and did not know but that a hospital might be like this . "I will not take any Japanese medicine. They have ruined my guts with Republic flour and now want to give me medicine. 'Slap me and then soothe the spot.' No virtue in it." It was about three o'clock in the afternoon, the very hottest time of day. In the courtyard the sunshine had burned the surface of the earth and the leaves on the trees had all curled up. It was hot everywhere, without the slightest breeze. Even the nesting sparrows stopped their work and squatted under the eaves with their bills open. It was somewhat cooler in the room but the people were hot and thirsty. Sun the Seventh did not want to listen to Morning Lotus' chatter so he leaned against the corner of the room and took a nap. A Japanese who looked like a soldier and also looked like a nurse came in. Morning Lotus, as though he saw a dear relative, stood up quickly and brought out all the smiles he could muster. He waited until the Japanese looked directly at him and could see his 4 24

smiling face and then bowed to him deeply. He then waked up Sun the Seventh . "Don't sleep any more; the doctor is here." The Japanese said to Morning Lotus, "Yours?" Morning Lotus placed his two feet together, straightened his back, his smiles circling his face, and respectfuIIy answered, "Cramps." Fearing that the Japanese would not understand him he added, "Diarrhea, stomach trouble, bowel trouble, indigestion." The Japanese asked a II in the room and a II answered they had trouble with their bowels. "WeII, we'II decontaminate you." Having said this the Japanese left. None 9f them understood what was meant by decontamination but Morning Lotus felt it his duty to explain to aII, "It probably means for us to take baths and change our clothes. The Japanese are very particular about hygiene and cleanliness . I know." After a few minutes the Japanese came back, opened the door, and said, "Go." Morning Lotus rushed to be the first and, as though he were the interpreter, said to aII, "He says for us to go." Including Morning Lotus and Sun the Seventh, there were alto­ gether seven of the sick men. Slowly aII went out, and as they came out of the room the heat, like red-hot iron, slapped against their faces. Sun the Seventh took hold of the door jamb. He felt dizzy. Outside the gate a big truck waited for them, the driver already in his seat. By his side was a Japanese soldier with a gun. "Get up," the Japanese shouted. "This wiII probably take us to the real hospital," Morning Lotus said as he clambered into the truck. There were no seats in the truck and no cover. There were streams of blood on the floor that had dried into wrinkles, and stank. Morning Lotus recognized this truck. It was the one that carried dead bodies out of the city. The truck was burning hot. No one dared to sit down. AII they could do was to squat. The sun did not seem to be in the sky but right beside them. The truck went fast as though to rush away from a sea of fire. Everywhere was glaringly bright. Even the shadows near the waIIs did not seem to have any depth. The tiles on the roofs, the tops of the waIIs, and especiaIIy the telephone wires, aII reflected the shimmering light. The truck seemed to fly . The strong colors became flying rainbows . Those in the truck shut their eyes . Suddenly it was dark and the sound of the truck was like thunder. 42 5

All hastened to open their eyes . They had entered the tunnel of one of the city gates . Morning Lotus was afraid of going outside the city and he began to sense danger but he would not speak out, afraid that he might displease the Japanese. He began to think of Big Red Pepper, but even the death of Big Red Pepper had not made him hate the Japanese. He reasoned that if the Japanese could give her an official position they could kill her as well. It was quite natural, quite natural. Those on the truck were all frightened, and asked, "What is going to happen?" Outside the city gate the sun again shone on their heads. They stopped talking and closed their eyes . The truck rushed forward and left the suburb behind. The dust stirred up by the wheels rose high. The hot grit fell on their faces. "Sun the Seventh, Sun the Seventh !" Morning Lotus saw a huge field of sweet potatoes and was even more frightened . "This, this-" "Why should you be frightened? The Japanese will never kill you," Sun the Seventh said angrily. "That's right, that's right." Morning Lotus nodded. "I have never offended the Japanese." The truck stopped beside a small grove of elm trees . The leaves seemed all to have been eaten by worms and the bald trees were not pleasant to see. There were many caterpillar webs on the branches, and from the webs the droppings of the worms hung in festoons. All around the trees were fields of sweet potatoes. Their greyish-green leaves had folded up and the greyish-red vines could be seen, like great worms that could not move. A gust of hot wind rolled up some of the dry yellow earth, and blew down a few of the worm-eaten elm leaves . Two black crows sat on a grave not far away. They rose and then sat again. Morning Lotus rolled off the truck and, without waiting to adjust his coat, rushed toward the Japanese soldier and knelt on the ground. "Officer, officer, I am one of your people. My wife and daughter both worked for you. I have never committed any crime, officer, officer." Sun the Seventh was not naturally a brave man but since he had fainted so many times in the streets he was no longer afraid of death . But he could not think of any death-deserving crime that he had committed, nor could he trouble to try and find a way to save himself. Without thinking at all he rushed over to Morning Lotus and struck and kicked him. "You, you, I knew there could be nothing good if I met you-you running dog without bones !" 4 26

The Japanese soldier was about to stab Sun the Seventh with his bayonet when the last man to leave the truck, a well-dressed man in a long gown, began to run. The Japanese soldier ran after him. The bayonet entered his back. The Japanese soldier ran back. Sun the Seventh was still beating Morning Lotus . As the bayonet approached Sun the Seventh he closed his shortsighted eyes to two slits, and then opening them widely he shouted, "What are you up to?" And strange to say, when the Japanese heard the sudden shout he stood still looking foolish as though he had forgotten what he was about to do. The Japanese did not try again to use the bayonet on Sun the Seventh but ordered everyone to stand in line. Morning Lotus was still kneeling. The Japanese soldier pulled him up and put him at the head of the line, and in some way Sun the Seventh found himself the second. The day was brighter than ever. The sun glared on the people, on the bare elm trees, on the grave, and on the sweet potato field. One of the crows on the grave again flew up, cawed a couple of times and again sat down . The Japanese soldier holding his gun in front of him told them to go to the other side of the trees. Behind the trees was a row of trenches. In the clods thrown out were earthworms, red and purple, killed by the sun. "Decontamination ." The Japanese soldier with the butt of his gun knocked Morning Lotus into the first ditch. Morning Lotus shrieked shrilly, "Spare me!" The driver handed shovels to Sun the Seventh and to the third in line and gestured for them to throw in earth. Sun the Seventh forgot everything and remembered only that the man in the ditch had sold his country and his friends . He brought out all the strength that was left in him and shoveled earth into the ditch, while Morning Lotus called continuously, "Spare me, spare me!" The earth in the ditch was deeper and deeper and Morning Lotus' cries became less loud. The earth covered his chest. He rolled his eyes up and looked at the Japanese soldier. He wanted to shout, "Save me," but a shovelful of earth closed his mouth. The crow flew over and circled the trees and then flew away again. The second trench was for Sun the Seventh . He jumped in without a word. The whole city was being decontaminated. Republic flour had ruined the bowels of the people of Peiping but the Japanese thought it was some contagious disease. They were afraid the Japanese would catch it. Several big trucks patrolled the streets 42 7

day and night. When they saw anyone who had fainted or who had cramps they took them away as part of the decontamination. The old Japanese woman from Number One came over and greeted Rey Shuan in English, "Good morning." Rey Shuan stepped forward to meet her. "Good morning. I should long since have come to thank you, but-" "I understand, I understand." She stopped and pointed to her own gate. "They have gone to the Chien Men Station to receive their husbands' ashes, ashes." "Na-" Rey Shuan wanted to comfort her but quickly con­ trolled himself. He could not be sorry for the death of an enemy even though the old woman had helped him. They stood for a long time and then the old woman thought of something to say, "When-when can we stop being half-animal and half-man, and progress to becoming completely human, and not fight any more?" "You and I have no desire to fight," Rey Shuan said with a sad smile. "But you cannot control the men of your family and keep them from killing Chinese, and I-in spite of my love for peace-couldn't keep your men from coming to kill us. It seems to me that none of the wars from ancient times down to the present was worth shedding a drop of blood, but in the present war I feel it is better to shed all our blood than to be conquered." The old woman sighed and walked slowly back home. Back in the courtyard Rey Shuan could not settle down and again walked slowly out. When he saw the gate of Number One he realized that he wanted to see how those two Japanese women would bring back their husbands' ashes. He hated himself for being this way. About noon he saw them. His eyes brightened and his heart beat faster. Immediately he changed his mind and wanted to turn round and go back but his legs did not move. The two Japanese boys holding little rising sun flags stood a t attention outside their gate, waiting for the old woman t o open it. They were not romping as usual but acted as though some heavy responsibility had been put on their little bodies. They seemed no longer to be innocent little boys but to be little old men carry­ ing an historical mission. They seemed to understand fully the glory which had come to their family-the glory of having their bodies burnt to ashes and put into little white boxes . Rey Shuan wondered if he himself should die, what would Little Precious and Niu Niu do? They would hold their mother's gown 4 28

and weep. Chinese know how to weep and weep without shame, and the Japanese-even the children-know how to keep their tears inside. He heard the gate of Number One open. His heart followed the sound of the opening gate and beat more rapidly. He felt that he must sympathize at least with the old woman . She was not entirely a Japanese. She was one who had seen the world. He wanted to go away, afraid that the old woman would see him, but still he did not move. The old woman came out. She had changed to ceremonial gar­ ments, an enveloping coat of black with printed patterns on back and shoulders . As she came out she put her hands on her knees and bowed deeply, waiting deferentially for the ashes to arrive. The two women stepped forward. Each carried a small box wrapped with snowy white cloth . It was in a white cloth sling hanging from their necks to their clasped hands. The two women also wore ceremonial garments. The old woman bowed even more deeply. The two women-as though they were carrying imperial edicts-with no expression on their faces, walked into their gate. The gate was closed. In Rey Shuan's eyes were still those clothes of black with the bright patterns, the snowy white cloth, and the three puppet-like women . He stood idly, his ears listening intently, hoping to hear the sound of weeping. There was none. There was no sound at all. The Japanese women did not know how to weep aloud. A gust of wind blew a few dry leaves from the locust trees and a twig cracked.

Chapter Ten

1 VJ

made the people in Peiping shiver. In the past, at this time, there would have been many chrysanthemum shows in the city. Many college and middle-school boys and girls would go, as was the custom, to the Western Hills or the Ming Tombs on excursions . The children of the primary schools would go to the zoo to see the monkeys and the long-nosed elephant. The poets, according to the tradition for viewing the red leaves, would take wine with them and climb to the high places or go outside the city. Autumn in times of peace brought to people the dew, and the fragrance of the cassia, and the bright moon. Now the northwest wind, the vanguard of autumn, had come but no one dared go outside the city to amuse themselves . The sound of cannon still came often from the Western Hills. Even 42 9 COLD NORTHWEST WIND

without the sound of guns the people had no heart to go out to see the autumn leaves or climb to the high places to write poetry. Their stomachs were empty and their bodies cold. They knew only that a cold wind had blown for a night and that the city was in the grip of winter. On the streets covered with frost they saw a truck-the truck which had taken Morning Lotus and Sun the Seventh to be decon­ taminated-slowly patrolling the streets . It was the "ghost truck." Whenever it came across a dead body, dead of illness or starvation -or half-dead-the truck would stop and take it away. Whenever the people saw the "ghost truck" they could not help wondering if they might not also sometime be taken away in this manner. Every two or three days Yun Mei saw the "ghost truck." After her experience the first time she went to get the ration she dared not be late again . On the days she went to get the grain she would rise before daylight. Sometimes she got up so early the stars were still shining. She would wash her face and comb her hair, cook some black porridge and set out the bowls, chopsticks, and salt vegetable. She would then go to the window of her mother-in-law's room and say, "Mother, I'm going." The place where she got the grain was not always the same. Sometimes she had to walk five or six Ii. Sometimes she even had to go to the east city. If the place was, in the east city she had to hurry to catch the first tram car. Rickshaws were too expensive; she could not afford one. She was not used to the trams but she had decided to use them for she was a responsible person and dared not humor herself. What frightened her most was the ghost truck. No matter whether the day was fine or cloudy, whether it was cold or warm, she would tremble whenever she saw it. Sometimes there were three or four, and sometimes more than ten, dead bodies on the truck. Involuntarily she would close her eyes. Those dead bodies were not icy cold bodies but were people like her. They must have families, friends, and relatives, and have had the problems of eating and drinking and living. She thought that they must still be worrying about their sons and daughters, their fathers and mothers, and about the affairs of their homes. Once she saw a corpse whose hands still grasped a flour sack just like hers. One day she was carrying half a sack of Republic flour and walking toward her home. She was still two or three Ii from home but she would not take a rickshaw and she walked very slowly because the flour was heavier with each step . Suddenly lifting her head she saw Meydee. Since coming out of prison Meydee had been assigned to watch those in Peiping from 43 0

over the Western Ocean. She looked very short in spite of her high­ heeled shoes as she walked beside the tall Wes terner. She held the giant's arm very tightly with her right hand, and turned her face up as she walked. One half of her hair was combed straight up and looked like a sink brush on end; it shook as she walked. The other half fell on her shoulders . Her little face was fatter than it had been, and her eyes and eyebrows could be seen clearly from a dis­ tance as she was made up like a movie star on location. She was talking and laughing loudly. When she had laughed so much that she could not get her breath, she stood still and with both hands held the giant's arm, and the sink brush of her hair fell upon his chest. Her shoulders and back shook as though she were having con­ vulsions . Then she took his tie and dried her tears. She took out her little mirror and powder pad, and powdered her face as though the whole of Peiping were her dressing room. Yun Mei, with her bag of flour, stood there silently, but Meydee did not notice her. When Meydee had finished powdering her face she walked on with the giant. Yun Mei involuntarily spat on the ground. She did not know much about national affairs but she quite understood that only after the Japanese came to Peiping were there such strange things as she had just seen. She looked at the sack of flour and at her own old blue gown. If Meydee's unseemly behavior made Yun Mei blush, what Mistress Liu-the wife of the shed-builder-did, made her feel that women were not useless things that ate free bread or were toys only. Mistress Liu had come often to the Chi family to help Yun Mei with her sewing. But when there was no more grain and the prices of things went up she decided not to let Rey Shuan give her the six dollars each month. Clumsily she first said this to Yun Mei. Yun Mei would not take the responsibility and also she suspected that perhaps Mistress Liu really wanted to have something added each month and so purposely refused to accept the money in ordei-: to get more. "I have a way to make a living. I have a way." Mistress Liu repeated the words many times, but she would not tell what the way was. After a few days Mistress Liu disappeared. Rey Shuan was espe­ cially disturbed. After a few days Mistress Liu suddenly returned and brought a catty of millet as a gift to Old Man Chi. She would not say where she got it but to Old Man Chi as she smiled she said, "Have some gruel made." Millet had been, before the war, something not worth much 43 1

money. Now it had become a precious thing. Whenever Old Man Chi felt poorly his first thought was always, "If only I had a bowl of millet gruel how wonderful it would be." Today as he looked at this gift he let the little yellow seeds pass through his fingers as though he were handling little pearls . Yun Mei took Mistress Liu to her own room and asked her, "Where did you get the millet?" Haltingly Mistress Liu described her activities . Since the Japanese controlled the food many women took the risk of going to Kalgan or Shihchiachuang to do business. They took old clothes and pieces of cloth to those cities, sold them, and brought back grain. Kalgan and Shihchiachuang lacked clothes; Peiping lacked food. Those who took the risk could make money at both ends of their trips. It was dangerous work. They had to avoid inspection by the Japanese. They had to bribe the policemen and the railway workers . Sometimes they had to hide in the freight cars and sometimes they had to lie flat on top of them. When they had grain to smuggle they would place it in their sleeves or the bags of their trousers . Sketchily Mistress Liu told of these matters. She did not appear to think that she was brave or that the business was at all strange or dangerous . She laughed only when Yun Mei asked her whether she was afraid or not and answered stolidly and simply, "I am a country woman," as though a country woman could still walk even with her head cut off. After a few days Mistress Liu again disappeared. From this time on whenever Yun Mei felt frightened she would quickly think of Mistress Liu and say to herself, "Suppose there is no grain at all and I have to go with Mistress Liu to Kalgan. No matter how difficult and how dangerous, I could not watch the whole family, old and young, starve to death." If Mistress Liu' s courage inspired Yun Mei to be more firm and self-confident, Fourth Mistress Li's universal love increased her understanding of herself and others, and of the mutual concern between them all. In the past Yun Mei had scarcely ever gone out of the gate except for a bit of shopping. Now that she herself was often outside her gate and often met Fourth Mistress Li she began to understand the old woman. In the past she had treated people, for the most part, according to the tradition of the Chi family. There was a measure for all and she would not get too close nor be too far from anyone. Now after being helped many times by Fourth Mistress Li she began to understand that always to take measure and to keep a certain distance was not the right way to conduct one's life. So Yun Mei also began to try to help others 43 2

and after she had helped someone she felt a warmth in her heart. It was not a warmth that came from others but a warmth that came from within and went out to others. This warmth going out f rom her made her feel that she was solid and firm. Those in the Little Sheep Fold who had received th e most aid from the two Lis were the people in Number Seven and those who criticized Fourth Master the most were also the people of Number Seven. In spite of this Fourth Mistress Li went often to see them. If they said anything out of the way she would counter­ attack immediately with the foulest language, but beside their sick­ beds and birthbeds she was like a lamp giving them light. Black Mole Fang the Sixth of Number Seven, after he had memorized the Four Books at the command of the Japanese, had become a star among storytellers. He broadcasted at least twice a week or three times . One day in a broadcast he told a story and made a jest about the Japanese. Before the program was finished Fang the Sixth was in prison . He had said, "Yesterday it cost ten dollars a container, today five dollars. I believe that tomorrow it will cost two dollars a con­ tainer. What kind of a container? A tooth-powder container." Those who heard the broadcast all sympathized with Fang the Sixth but no one tried to save him. Fourth Mistress Li had not heard the broadcast and did not know why he was in prison but she was the first to go to the Fang family and try to comfort them. She urged her "Old Thing" to find a way to save Fang the Sixth. Fourth Master was only the Head of a Li. What could he do? He went to see Sergeant Pai to find out if there was anything that could be done. "Fourth Master, I admire your good heart, but this piece of business is not easily managed," Sergeant Pai warned Fourth Master Li. "If I don't try-what with Fourth Mistress and the people in Number Seven-I will be cursed out of existence." "I have an idea but I am afraid that you will not agree to it." "Speak out, who doesn't know that you are Chu Kuo Liang." Old Man Li alluded to the sage conselor of the Three Kingdoms. "Haven't the people lately all been criticizing you? Well, let's give them a chance to show their worth." Fourth Master Li smiled sadly. "I am old, I have no heart to match anger with anger. Whether I am good or bad Old Heaven knows." "You are right. I am not urging you to match angers with them. What I'm saying is that you should go to them, tell them that we 433

will send in a statement, signed by all, guaranteeing that Fang the Sixth is a good man . Let's see how many of them dare to sign that paper. If they don't sign the paper-well, they should not talk any more about you . What do you think?" "What if all sign the paper?" "They?" Sergeant Pai smiled knowingly. " It would be strange indeed if they did. I understand our neighbors." Fourth Master Li was not happy about trying to do such a meaningless thing and yet the criticisms from the neighbors made him unwilling to lower his head and accept their curses . vVhile he was caught between the troubles of the right and of the left Sergeant Pai put more fat on the fire. "Fourth Master, I do not want to stir up more trouble but I feel that they are unfair to you. Test them . See how many of them have bones after all." The old man hesitatingly agreed. It came out exactly as Sergeant Pai had expected. Not one person in Number Seven dared to sign the petition . Fourth Master Li wanted very much to tear up the petition and end this meaning­ less affair but his curiosity forced him to make the rounds of all the neighbors. John Ting without a word signed his name. It was not that he wanted to help Fang the Sixth but to show that those of the Eng­ lish Palace were not afraid of the Japanese. Cheng Chang Shun looked at the petition, mumbled something, and also signed his name. Fourth Master Li came to the Chi house. Yun Mei opened the gate and when she heard what Fourth Master Li had come for­ without going inside to consult with the others-she signed for Rey Shuan. She did not know many characters but she knew how to write her husband's name. This startled Fourth Master Li. He knew that the people of the Chi family were good but he had not expected Yun Mei to be so bold. She had indeed become bolder than in the past. She now went often onto the main streets, often heard and saw all manner of things, came in contact with all kinds of people, and had-without realizing it-changed. In the past the kitchen was her headquarters and the courtyard was her world, but now it was as though her eyes were open and she seemed to be closely related to all that was happening in Peiping. What made her happiest was that when Rey Shuan came home and heard her report he did not rebuke her for being so im434

petuous and for acting without thinking. He smiled and said, "It is always good to help people." Fourth Master Li did not send in the petition. There were not enough names, and to send it in would be useless and might make trouble for those who had signed. From this experience, however, he was able to tell clearly who among the neighbors were true people and who false. And he felt that he had just discovered Yun Mei. When she went on the street Yun Mei often met the old J apa­ nese woman from Number One and the two naughty boys. She had never been very aware of them and she disliked the two boys because they had bullied Little Precious . Now, knowing that the men from Number One were dead and the women had become military prostitutes, she began to pity them and to talk with the old woman. The old woman could speak only a few simple Chinese phrases but Yun Mei could guess from her eyes much of what she wanted to say. Sometimes they stood together without saying any­ thing but both feeling that they understood each other. The old woman seemed to say, "I am not an ordinary Japanese; don't judge me by my appearance and clothes." Yun Mei could not think of any simple and easily understood words with which to explain her own attitude but "to see everyone as a fellow human being"-the attitude which had been cultivated by the civilization of many thousands of years-made her pity the old woman. The northwest wind blew for the whole night and ice was seen for the first time on the ground. Yun Mei had to go early in the morning to get the grain. When she saw the ice she wanted her gloves but she did not look for them. She knew that the hardships this winter would be many; she must not let herself be scared by a little ice. Outside the gate the cold wind soon made the tip of her nose red. She walked more quickly to warm herself. Some of those in the queue were wearing the red flannel wind­ hoods that had not been seen for many years; some wore the kind of hats with ear flaps that had long been curios; some wore old cotton-padded coats with the dirt and grease thick on them; some wore sleeveless jackets over their coats made of skins from which the fur had long since been worn away. Yun Mei seeing these strange and curious costumes suddenly wondered if she was really standing in a Peiping street. She lifted her head and looked at the sky-that sky as blue as the precious stones-and knew that she was really in Peiping. The streets, the shops, and the leaves falling on the ground were all as she had seen them. It was only the people she did not recognize. What would they be like next year? 43 5

At this moment-she would be willing to swear-she saw the Third, saw Rey Tang. He was wearing a short blue cotton coat such as the peasants wore. His waist was girdled by a piece of blue cloth . His head was bare and sweating as he walked along the side of the motor road. Yun Mei opened her mouth to shout, "Old Three," but no sound came; and in the batting of an eye, the Third had already gone too far away. She was no longer cold and the palms of her hands began to sweat. Old Three had come back. He had been not more than twenty feet away from her. According to the registration books, Old Three was dead, but now he had come back to Peiping. Yun Mei's eyes shone. Two red patches appeared on her cheeks. She need not fear anyone or anything. When she had taken the grain home she wanted many, many times to tell this good news to the old people, but she knew that it could not be told at any idle moment and that she must first talk it over with her husband. Whenever she heard footsteps in the courtyard she would think it was Old Three coming back. With great difficulty she kept the secret and only when they were going to bed did she have the opportunity to open her mouth . "Father of Little Precious, what do you think-I saw the Third." Rey Shuan had already gone to bed . He sat bolt upright. "What?" "I saw the Third . I can swear that it was indeed he." "Where? How did he look?" Yun Mei told him in detail. With his arms around his knees Rey Shuan stared at the wall and-from what Yun Mei told him­ painted an Old Three like a portrait hanging on the wall . He stared steadily at the imaginary picture he had created and forgot everything. He could hear only his own heart beating. When Yun Mei took off her shoes she dropped them and the noise they made startled Rey Shuan. The picture on the wall dis­ appeared. He lay slowly down. "Ten thousand, ten thousand, you must not tell anyone." "Am I that stupid?" "Good. Ten thousand, ten thousand, you mustn't say anything, anything." "I certainly will not say anything." Yun Mei also went to bed. Yun Mei said no more but her imagination was active. She was sure that Old Three had climbed the high mountains, been to many far places, perhaps even to the side of the sea and seen the great ocean. She herself had never been outside the walls of Peiping and the only mountains she had seen were the Western Hills and the 43 6

Northern Mountains as they could be seen from the city, a distance away. They were always blue, always a deeper blue than the sky. She did not know what was on the mountains nor whether all that was on them was blue in color. And the only "seas" she had ever seen were the three seas in the Imperial Parks and she did not know how many times bigger the ocean was than those in the parks . Yun Mei shut her eyes. In her mind she saw a sea many times bigger than the three seas of the parks, and the blue stones, blue grass, and blue trees, of the blue hills. By the side of the ocean and on the tops of the mountains was that strong and brave Old Three.

Chapter Eleven

W Old Three-Rey Tang-on the New Year's Eve of the old cal­ ITH THE YELLOW DUST

of the Ching Ling Mountains on him

endar had entered the ancient city of Sian . He was wearing a stu­ dent's uniform, a very thin suit. His black bean eyes had seen the turbulent currents of the Yel­ low River, the wind-blown sails on the Yangtze, and the villages of the Shan tribesmen in the isolated mountains where the people have never seen tea leaves. To him there was not a place that could compare with Peiping but each of these places made him know more of what is China. China, he now began to understand, had many different climates, different kinds of land, and different customs. The vastness of China exhilarated and frightened him. Even the mosquitoes and clouds differed from place to place. He could not forget Peiping, but he was glad to see these places. That turgid Yellow River and the piteously small villages in the mountains seemed to be primeval and never to have been touched by human hands . Because of this they had a strength-a strength that Peiping did not have. They were tied closely to Heaven and Earth. If Peiping should be de­ stroyed these rivers and villages would still forever be there. They seemed never to have changed from .the beginning of history and so they were not afraid and could not be destroyed. Their back­ wardness worried him, but their firmness and purity made him happy. He thought that a new China could grow from their pure firm strength and that such responsibility could never be carried by decayed cities like Peiping. He loved the peasants with their feet planted on the yellow earth. Their farming methods were conservative, their education almost nonexistent, their living was hard and bitter; but they had 43 7

integrity, were careful, good-natured, and industrious . When once they understood they did not refuse to give up their grain, money, and even their sons and brothers for their country. It was they who had taken up the burden and the responsibility of the war of resistance. China was theirs. It was they who tore apart the great rocks on the Ching Ling and Pa Shan mountains to build the highway; it was they with basket after basket of sand and cement who filled the rice paddies to build the airfields; it was they, when the enemy came, who burned their houses and leading their cows and horses retreated, following the national flag; it was they who sent their sons and brothers to the front and carried the wounded from the battle field . When he saw this clearly Rey Tang was proud to acknowledge himself a Chinese. He had some knowledge and liked cleanliness, but he realized that he lacked the unadulterated strength of the countryman and the wisdom that grew out of the soil. There were many things that the country people knew, that the country people could do, which he did not understand and which he could not do. His knowledge, good taste, cleanliness, all seemed to be ornaments which could be worn or not worn. The country people really grasped life itself and from morning to evening, from spring to winter were busy with things closely connected with life. And when the time came they dared to give up their lives. What if their skins were darker-perhaps their blood was hotter and redder than his. He began to pay no attention to his outward appearance; and when he saw his clothes begin to wear out, the dust on his shoes, and the black earth under his nails, he not only did not feel un­ comfortable but proud . He began to give up the arrogance of the university student and decided to work with the country people and fight the enemy with them. He wanted to teach them what he knew and at the same time learn from them what he did not know. He did not know how to ride a horse or use a gun but he was determined to ask the people to help him learn. He even forced himself to admit that the country girls in their red trousers and green coats were more attractive than Meydee. When he wanted to get married he would marry a country girl. He became thinner but grew taller by half an inch . His face be­ came darker but the planes and lines showed strength . He could not play basketball with the country youth, but he learned to wrestle with them and to lift weights . His new muscles made him feel that he should be able to knock off two enemy heads with one blow. The hot blood flowed fast and his imagination was quickened . 43 8

He even began to think of the time when the war would be fin­ ished. After victory he thought he would stay in the country, marry a country girl, and father children strong as calves. He would start a school to educate his children, and all in the village-old and young, men and women-would learn to read. He would start a co-operative, a small factory, and a small clinic. He saw not only victory but he saw the new China that should be after the war was over. In that new China of his the country would be as beautiful as a flower garden. But before long Rey Tang was forced to leave his work and his friends. The authorities were suspicious when they saw the edu­ cated youth and the people getting on too well together. He was ordered to go to the city and do what he did not like to do-sit in a long gown behind a desk. This disappointment made him angry, but he remembered what Uncle Chien and Eldest Brother had said to him before he left Peiping, "Don't let your heart turn to ashes." He controlled his anger and kept his mouth shut. He was sent to work with those that gathered information, sent to various cities but not behind the Japanese lines . He was restless. If he could have worked with the country people or been accepted by the army he would never have gone back to Peiping. He loved Peiping but he could now see that Peiping was a pla'ce of poison . Those palaces with glazed tile roofs, the beautiful food and drink, and the many little conveniences and enjoyments were all pois­ onous. They made people comfortable but also made people com­ placent and lazy. Rey Tang would rather roll in the mud than go back to the overcultivated home city, and he would not roll in the mud that daily grew thicker around the long gowns and tailored uniforms . He could not put on one or the other and sit behind a desk or stand solemnly at attention behind a general. He volun­ teered for underground work and as Peiping was the most dangerous place for the underground workers, he decided that he might as well go back to Peiping. Traveling toward Peiping he entered the city of Sian on New Year's Eve. His clothes were too thin and he was cold. He wandered through many streets and . still could not buy a wadded coat. Most shops had closed to celebrate the new year. He knocked at the gate of a shop that sold clothes for the dead. No matter whether it was New Year's Eve or New Year's Day peo­ ple died, and the shops selling what was needed for them could not refuse to trade. He bought a long wadded gown that had been made to clothe a corpse. He laughed to himself. "Good-a living 439

person wearing the clothes of the dead. Let it show that death is not feared." From Sian he went east, riding in whatever conveyance appeared, and if there was no cart or truck he walked . When he rode in a train or bus he had to sit with Japanese, and chat with them, and give them things to eat as if he were one who dearly loved the Japanese. When he was carrying secret documents or propaganda literature he placed them with the Japanese baggage and so avoided inspection. Sometimes he would ask the Japanese to carry them out of the station for him. These little tricks made him feel cheap because the Japanese were fond of playing these little games, but since he got the results he hoped to get, in his heart he said, "You can maneuver-so can I." When he walked he would avoid the Japanese soldiers, and sometimes he would purposely go into the occupied areas to see what the guerillas were doing. So he went a long way round and had the opportunity to observe very carefully the conditions in many places. After traveling a long time he could shut his eyes and draw a map in his mind . . On this map were not only mountains, rivers, and the large and small villages, but there were also the ac­ tivities of the armies and of the people. This was a map drawn in blood. A very small village might have been burned and the people butchered eight or ten times. A small quiet stream had perhaps been taken by the enemy and taken back by the Chinese·- many, many times. Looking at this map in his mind he knew that the Chinese were not cowards. They did not lightly surrender to the enemy. The more he traveled the nearer he was to Peipillg and he began to think of home. He thought especially of his mother and of his eldest brother. He could never again fit into the family of the four generations. He had seen the broad and wide land of his nation, and the many peoples, and the many, many problems of the peo­ ple. The future relations of his life would be with society and not with his family. War had opened his mind and his eyes. It was autumn before he got on a train at Langfang about forty miles from Peiping. He had decided to become a man from the town of Langfang. This was not difficult for him as he had to change his speech very slightly to become a Langfang man. His clothes-a long blue lined gown for autumn wear, a pair of half-worn thick-soled satin slip­ pers, a little round black satin cap-turned him into the likeness of a young manager of a grain shop. His luggage was a half-worn bedding roll on which were the partly rubbed-off characters, "House 440

of the Three Locust Trees ." So now his surname was Wang. He wondered idly what that Wang so many hundreds of years ago had done to make himself famous and what the three locust trees had to do with his fame that they should now always be used as their emblem by the Wang family, and even by those of the name of Wang who were not descended from him. Rey Tang also car­ ried a pair of wind goggles and a small hand towel . To use the towel as a handkerchief was to give him the air of a countryman, and the goggles were to add to the dignity of the young manager. In the bedding roll he had the dead soul's coat and some under­ wear. Outside of the words on the bedding roll he had not one thing with writing on it. Tall and dark he pretended to be stupidly getting on the train, like a small businessman traveling. On the train he memorized the family tree of Manager Wang, and the map of the Wang vil­ lage. Once or twice and more than ten times he said over fo him­ self the family tree of the Wangs and looked at the map in his mind of the family village. If he should be questioned by the Japanese he must be able to satisfy the Japanese love of trivial detail . He came nearer and nearer to Peiping. As the train jolted along there flashed before Rey Tang's mind scene after scene of his home. The gate of the compound, the big locust trees outside the gate, all the things inside the courtyard, stood like pictures before his eyes. He quickly closed his eyes and listened to the sound of the train hoping to hypnotize himself into sleeping. He must not­ because he was about to see Peiping-allow his heart to beat fast. Many times already the Japanese had placed their hands on his heart to see if it was beating fast. This was Peiping, this was his home, but it was also the tiger's mouth. He must without the slightest perturbation walk into the tiger's mouth and at the same time not allow the tiger to eat him. The train stopped . Very slowly he gathered up his luggage and slung the bedding roll over his shoulder. He held his ticket high in one hand, and carrying that greying towel in the other, he slowly got off the train. The ancient city walls by the side of the station, the light and crisp speech of his ·own townsmen, made it impossible for him not to breathe deeply, and as he drew in his breath he smelled the peculiar fragrance of Peiping. The color and the fragrance and the sounds all made him feel comfortable and that everything was right. It was as though he could touch his mother's wrist if he but stretched out his hand. But he must be calm and walk slowly. He knew that if anyone should tap him on the 44 1

shoulder he would hope for the best and bravely prepare for the worst. This was not Peiping; it was the tiger's mouth. In peace and without trouble he gave up his ticket in front of the wooden wicket, but he was still afraid to be elated. Any piece of Peiping's earth might at any time become his grave. As he had expected, as soon as he passed the barrier a hand was laid lightly on his shoulder. He, however, was the more composed because this was what he had expected. With the hand that car­ ried the towel he knocked off the hand on his shoulder, and, using the air of a small business manager, he asked, "What do you want?" He did not trouble himself to see who it was but walked on as be­ fore, muttering to himself, "I'm going to my usual hotel, don't waste your time trying to get my trade. I often come to Peiping. Don't take me for a country bumpkin ." But this bit of bluff did not work. A hard object was stuck against his ribs and a voice from behind said, "Come, don't waste words ." The young manager of the "Three Locust Trees" became angry and turned around and faced the man behind him. "What's all this? Are you kidnapping me in the station? Leave me, or I'll call the police." As he talked in this way he was hating the man enough to want to bite off pieces of his flesh . He was a young Chinese and Rey Tang hated those even more than he hated the Japanese. But he must control himself. He must say something good to this person who was not as good as a dog or a pig. So he said, "Sir, I have not much money with me. Please rest your honorable hands ." "Come ." The dog showed his teeth-a set of very even and white teeth. Rey Tang, seeing that to talk hard or to talk soft were both use· less, could only sigh and follow the dog. Behind the ticket office was a small room which was the tiger's mouth that he had expected. Inside was a Japanese and two Chi· nese. They were the three huge teeth in the tiger's mouth. Rey Tang quickly bowed to the three tiger's teeth, quickly put his bedding roll down, quickly wiped his face with his towel, and then stood facing the Japanese. Stupidly he began to dig in his ear with his little finger, and then to rub his ear lightly. The Japanese seemed to look at Rey Tang as he would look at a curio. From time to time Rey Tang smiled stupidly. The Japanese then began to look through a large book of photo­ graphs. Rey Tang looked along with him and saw many people he knew. When the Japanese had looked at a few pages he stopped, and lifted his head, and looked again at Rey Tang and then at the 44 2

photographs. After a long time Rey Tang saw his own picture. He had already forgotten where it had been taken but could remem­ ber only that it had been taken a number of years ago. In the picture he was fatter than he now was, and his hair was combed like a student's, fairly long on top and parted so that a lock fell over his forehead. His hair was now shaved close. It was perhaps because of this difference that the Japanese did not see any connection be­ tween the photograph and Rey Tang. He turned the page over. The Japanese pushed away the photographs and began to ques­ tion Rey Tang. Rey Tang used the family tree and the description of the village that he had memorized. As he talked the two Chi­ nese made notes . After questioning awhile the Japanese began again to turn over the photographs, and one of the Chinese questioned Rey Tang again from the beginning, at the same time comparing the an­ swers with his notes . The other Chinese then began to ask the same questions starting with the end of the story. Rey Tang made no mistakes in his answers . The Japanese again put away the book of photographs and sud­ denly smiled and said, "I know Langfang," and as he said this he put his hand on Rey Tang's heart. Rey Tang wriggled a bit, pretending to be shy, but did not inter­ fere with the Japanese hand on his chest. His heart was beating normally. The Japanese took away his hand and began to discuss Lang­ fang with Rey Tang as though he had much affection for the place. When he had heard a few questions Rey Tang realized that the story of the Japanese about the place was being made up, so he should not follow the Japanese story entirely, nor should he en­ tirely go against it. He must arrange things in his own mind, and sometimes follow and sometimes contradict, to give his falsehoods a color of truth. "Is that big pool in the north of the Wang village still there?" ''Which pool-the one the children bathe in in the summer? That has long since been filled up by the Japanese army." "South of the big pool are two roads. Which do you take when going home?'' "I don't take either of them. I always take a short cut across the fields. That saves me about half a Ii." The Japanese asked him many, many questions . Rey Tang's an­ swers were all very suitable. The Japanese pointed with his pursed 443

lips and the two Chinese searched Rey Tang's luggage and his body. They found nothing. The Japanese went away. The two Chinese sat awhile and then went away also. Rey Tang buttoned his coat and then put his clothes carefully and neatly in the bedding roll. Then laying the bedding roll flat, he sat on it with his back to a corner of the room and pretended to take a nap. After "sleeping" awhile he heard one of them come back. He slept even more soundly and snored lightly. Only those without secrets in their hearts can snore. "Hai," said the one who had just come in, "you haven't rolled away !" Rey Tang opened his eyes, rubbed them, and without hurry or excitement stood up, and gathered up his bedding roll. When he got outside the door he looked to the east and to the west as if he had lost his directions. He knew that if he ran when he went out of the room that he would certainly be brought back. There was no telling how many pairs of hidden eyes were watching him.

Chapter Twelve

e Front Gate of the city.

ARRYING ms BEDDING ROLL

Rey Tang walked through the Great

When he saw the powerful and majestic tower of the Gate of Heavenly Peace, the red walls on either side, the white marble balustrades, and the two cloud-pylons of white marble, his heart suddenly began to beat fast. The great building was history, geography, social structure, and art, all combined in symbol and memorial . And this history, geography, social structure, and art which belonged to the Gate of Heavenly Peace belonged also to him. He seemed to see his caul-buried in his home, in the room in which he was born-under that tower, as though the "home nest" of all the men of Peiping was there. The reflections of the light on the yellow glazed tiles and the pure white of the marble came wave on wave like silent music into his heart, and made him and that great building into one. How quiet and lonely it was before the gate, only a few people walking and a few cars. All with their short shadows walked as if they dared not make any noise as they went to the east and to the west. The breadth of the open space and the height of the tower made the men and horses seem like insects that had been blown there by a small sad wind. The shade of the trees seemed less 444

dense. The electric wires trembled in the breeze and made a slight noise. He wanted very much to go to Central Park and the Park of the Imperial Ancestral Temple to see the buildings, the trees, and the flowers, to see if they were still there. No, he could not go. If he went to Central Park o.r the Ancestral Temple carrying his bedding roll people would suspect him, and who could say there was no one shadowing him. The thought of going to the public parks made him think in­ voluntarily of Meydee. What had she turned into? He thought of the many times he and she had been to the parks before the war, for amusement. He must not think of her. He should congratulate himself that he had not been entirely enmeshed in the net of love and been made afraid to take risks. Where should he go? He could not go immediately to find his secret office. Suppose he were being shadowed-would that not ex­ pose the secret? Well, he had better wander like a rabbit doubling on its tracks and confusing the hounds. He went west. After walking awhile he felt that someone was following him. Very cleverly he dropped a shoe off his heel and then bent over to pull it up, and from the corner of his eye he saw that the person following him was Kaodee. Kaodee walked by him and said in a low voice, "Follow me." As he watched Kaodee's back-that fine-looking back, with the sun shining on it-he felt that everything in Peiping had changed, changed to ugliness and shamefulness, and was like a woman who takes any man that comes . Kaodee dropped back to w;ilk shoulder to shoulder with him when they came to the west wall of the city. Suddenly she said, "I was in prison. I joined the secret service. Otherwise I could not have left prison. But there is no need to be cautious with me. I am in touch with Mr. Chien . Do you understand?" "Mr. Chien? What Mr. Chien?" "Uncle Chien ." "Uncle Chien?" Rey Tang sighed with relief. Suddenly the grey city wall had become crystal and shone with a bright light. Peiping was not dead. Even Mr. Chien and Kaodee were risking their lives under the very noses of the enemy. He wanted to kneel down at once and kowtow to Kaodee. "He knows that you are coming. If you want to see him first, he is in that little temple further to the west. You should go to see him. He knows all about the situation in Peiping." She stood still and faced him. 44 5

Rey Tang could see nothing complicating the expression on her face; he could see only uprightness and steady determination. This uprightness did not make her more beautiful but added greatly to her dignity. Her nose and eyes were as they had been, but it seemed as if her whole body had changed, changed to a Kaodee he did not know. This new Kaodee had a beauty not of the flesh but a beauty that shone forth from the heart and from the soul. This beauty seemed to come from the same kind of courage and integrity as he had. "Meydee?" he asked in a hushed voice. "She-is the same as I." "The same?" Rey Tang lifted his head, his face covered with smiles . His heart, Peiping, and the whole world had become bright. "There is some difference-I am working with Mr. Chien. She is working for the enemy." Rey Tang's smile froze on his face. "You must be careful. Don't fall into her hands. Goodbye." Kaodee looked him in the eyes and then turned and walked away. Although it was autumn Mr. Chien was still wearing an unlined monk's robe. There was more white in his hair, his cheeks were deeply sunk, and he had an unkempt beard of mixed grey. He did not look like a city man; he looked like a hermit from the moun­ tains . He was sitting on the round mat at the end of the table of offerings beating lightly on the frog-shaped wooden drum . When the old man heard footsteps in the courtyard he beat the drum more vigorously. In a glance he saw that it was Rey Tang. He wanted to go over immediately and take Rey Tang's hand but he must control himself. Also he wanted to see how Rey Tang would act, to see if he had the discretion he should have. He knew that Rey Tang was brave but bravery must have added to it discretion. Rey Tang entered the temple and glanced at the old man but did not recognize him. Very deliberately he set down his bedding roll and then very reverently kowtowed to the image of Buddha. He knew how to act no matter how anxious he was to see Uncle Chien . He must first worship Buddha so that anyone who might be following could see that he was from the country, and show his shadow the kind of stupid bumpkin the Japanese liked to see­ superstitious and a believer in gods and demons . The old man nodded when he saw Rey Tang's composure and the way he acted. He quietly stood up and coughed lightly, and then he walked off toward the door behind the image. 446

Although Rey Tang had still not recognized the old man he rec­ ognized his cough. Picking up his bedding roll he also walked toward the back of the image. He walked around the image, through the back door of the hall, and entered a little back court­ yard. There was a small brick pagoda in the courtyard, and at the side of the pagoda was a twisted cypress tree. There were three chien of little rooms on the west side of the courtyard and Mr. Chien was standing outside the most southerly one whispering to a monk of about fifty years of age. The monk looked at Rey Tang, and gave him the religious salute-both hands placed together, palm to palm and finger to finger-and then went into the main hall to beat the wooden drum. Mr. Chien beckoned Rey Tang, and limping, walked into the most northerly of the little rooms . Rey Tang followed the old man closely. Rey Tang threw his bedding roll on the floor and four hands were immediately clasped together. Rey Tang cried, "Uncle Chien," but could think of nothing else to say. In his memory Uncle Chien was a plump, black-haired, quiet, and kind poet. He also remembered that on the left and the right of Uncle Chien there should be flowers and old books. He could never have imagined that Uncle Chien could change so much in appearance and live in such a broken-down little temple. "Let me look at you, let me look at you," the old man said with a smile. His sunken cheeks did not make his smile more beautiful but the smile wrinkles at the corners of his eyes were beautiful. "Let me look at you, Old Three." Rey Tang now saw that in the room there was only a wooden bed, a small table that had to lean against the wall for support, and a chair. The old man sat on the bed . Rey Tang pulled the chair over close to the old man and sat down. "Uncle Chien, how did you change to be like this?" The old man thought to tell him the whole history of his prison experience, the torture, and the death of his family; but then he thought that since Rey Tang had come from outside he must have seen many battle fields where in a day or an hour he saw the dead and the dying in great numbers. What was there to say about his own little troubles? He was firm and brave, but he was also modest. "It was done by the Japanese," the old man said, hoping that with this one sentence he would satisfy Rey Tang. "What?" Rey Tang stood up suddenly. His black bean eyes stared at the old man. 447

Rey Tang had never in ten thousand thoughts imagined that Mr. Chien, the most amiable person in the world, could have been tortured. During the years he had been away, he had thought of Peiping as sitting without a sound, no blood dripping, and with its old city walls surrounding a million conquered slaves. But now, hearing this one sentence of Uncle Chien's, he quickly thought of his family. If Uncle Chien had been tortured it was possible for everyone to be tortured, and his own people need not have been exceptions, especially his eldest brother. Rey Shuan was more qualified to be tortured and ·p ut in prison than Mr. Chien. He could not but ask, "They-my own people?" Old Man Chien said gently, "Sit down." Rey Tang sat down. The old man had not wanted to tell Rey Tang about the tragic affairs of his family as soon as he got back, but if he did not tell could Rey Tang not go elsewhere and make inquiry? He decided to tell the truth knowing that in his presence Rey Tang could cry out without shame. He was Rey Tang's old friend, old neighbor. When Rey Tang still wore the split pants of childhood he had known him. If Rey Tang wanted to weep it should be in his presence. Very slowly he said, "Your father and the Second are both finished. The others are all well." Rey Tang had seen the unbridled bombings of the cities, he had seen the battle fields between the rivers and the mountains, and his heart-like the palm of a hand that had worked too hard­ was covered with callouses. He did not react strongly to the old man's news. He said, "What?" as though he had not heard clearly; and then, not waiting for the old man to say anything further, he hung his head, and the tears began to flow. The old man in great distress placed one hand on Rey Tang's shoulder and said gently, "Old Three, Old Three." After a while Rey Tang suddenly lifted his head. "Tell me how is the Little Sheep Fold?" It seemed as if he had forgotten China, and had even forgotten Peiping, and remembered only the Little Sheep Fold, the place where he was born. The old man was happy for the opportunity to distract Rey Tang's mind. Simply he told the histories of the Kuans, of the Little Wen couple, Little Tsui, the rickshaw boy, and the shed­ builder, Master Liu. When Rey Tang heard the story he stood up. He had not imagined that in the Little Sheep Fold-such a small and quiet place-so many things could happen and that so many could have died. Heng! He had gone to far places to find the battle field and 44 8

the battle field was in his own home and his own street. He dared not look at Uncle Chien . Uncle Chien was the hero, the real hero. He dared-under the eyes of the enemy and struggling with a broken body-to do the work of vengeance. Mr. Chien was anxious to hear the news that Rey Tang must have brought from outside. In the presence of this young man the old man felt that what he was doing was small indeed and without plan, and that even the dust on Rey Tang's clothes had been blown off a battle field. Rey Tang knew the important matters of the country. Thus the old man and the young one each thought on meeting that they would pour out the stories of the many years of separa­ tion, but when they sat opposite each other there was nothing to say. They listened to the sound of the wooden drum in the main hall. Again it was Rey Tang who spoke first. "Uncle Chien, tell me something about yourself." "About myself?" The old man smiled. He did not want to speak but he felt he could not refuse his young friend's request. "I do many things but it is really very simple. Let me explain it this way : my work has been in three stages. The first was after I had been tortured in prison, when I had no plan and thought only of revenge. There was anger in my heart which made me give up my quiet living. I was like a madman making propaganda, urging all 'to assassinate.' I was angry, I hated, so I would not consider the opinions of others. Those whose ideas differed from mine I re­ garded as enemies. I was a one-man army. "Gradually I came to the second stage. My willingness to work and daring to work had brought me many friends. I saw clearly that I must have friends and work with them in one heart and one strength . Although I had not changed I saw that I was one end and my country the other of the same thing. That was my attitude. But I began to understand that one man daring to die was not as ef­ fective as many working together. Good-I cared not what the plans of others were, what political parties they belonged to, if only they came to me I was willing to help. They asked me to write. Good-I would write. If they asked me to throw a bomb-good, I would go and throw it. I began to feel my way. There was so much to do I could not do it all. I became a resist-the-enemy machine. I sold my services to any who wanted to use me. I had no political ties, I had no thoughts of personal vengeance or of furthering a career. I belonged to all who resisted the enemy. I would do any­ thing against the enemy even if it meant my death . If my first 449

stage was individual heroism, the second was co-operative patriotism. "I have now come to the third stage. The monk, Ming Yueh­ the Clear Moon-whom you saw a moment ago" -the old man pointed toward the main temple- "is my best friend . Our friend­ ship is very real and also very strange. When he first knew me my heart was full of vengeance and of killing. He-in spite of the fact that Peiping was conquered-did not give up his principles . He is opposed to killing. I thought that even Buddha-if he had been born in Peiping and his parents and brothers had been killed by the enemy-would have been angry and tried to kill the enemy in his turn. Clear Moon did not see it that way. He felt that war was caused by that part of mankind's nature that walks on four feet, and that it was not the fault of any one man or group. It was strange, our opinions being so different, that we became good friends. He did not believe in killing because he felt that revenge would only help the crime to grow and could not help do away with the war, yet he carried the begging bowl that I might eat. He was against killing and yet he supported a friend on whose hand was blood. "Although I did not accept his beliefs I was to some extent influenced by him; he taught me to see further. From wanting re­ venge only I began to look at the whole problem of doing away with war. I saw that our resistance was not only for revenge-an eye for an eye and a tooth for a tooth-but it was also to do away with the love of war so as to establish peace for the future. "And so I found myself again . I was again like myself before the war. When the war first started, and suddenly I was tortured, and my home ruined, and my people killed, I was mad . I had only killing and destruction to relieve my hatred. I forgot my ideals and my poetry and went out to fight to the death with the ·w ild beasts. While working I have found my ideals again. I am no longer anxious to lose my life before I have seen all clearly. Now I want to work carefully, and with peace in my mind realize my ideals; and so I say that I have found myself. Before the war I was a man who loved peace; now I am that man again . If there is a difference, it is that before the war I often took indulgence and indolence for love of peace, and now I use determination and cour­ age to achieve peace. "I need not tell you all the things that I have done. I am happy to be able to tell you about this change in me-the change that comes from the stages of growth . Danger and difficulties are no longer to be dreaded, for my eyes are looking to the far distance in the same way that Clear Moon is always looking toward the West45 0

em Paradise. I do not need to grit my teeth and knit my brows but can without compromise of my principles and without haste do my work. I have confidence in myself. Yes-today I do not and tomorrow I will not be able to believe in Buddhism. Clear Moon has, however, influenced me to good and I am grateful to him . He gets his immortality from Buddha, and I from the desire for revenge and resistance have reached the concepts for the estab­ lishment of peace. If the ultimate aim of humankind is to live happily together, then I will also achieve immortality." Rey Tang had not thought that Uncle Chien would give a sum­ mary of this kind. He had thought that the old man would tell him events with dates and locations. And having listened he sat and looked at Uncle Chien. It was as though he no longer knew the poet, and also as though he knew him better than ever. He wanted to tell the old man about all his experiences but he had not the courage to do so. Facts, if they were not held together with thought were like scattered bricks and broken tiles, and whether they were told or not did not matter. "Old Three, tell me of your work,'' the old man said with a smile. Old Three stretched his legs. "Uncle Chien, there is no need to tell . I also am changing." "That's good, good." The old man's eyes looked into Rey Tang's. "If it were anyone else, I would not have told what I have just told you. I would be afraid that people would say that I was like Old Peddler Wang-always praising his own melons . To you I could speak in no other way because that is the truth, and only by talking in that way could you see my heart. Old Three, you don't think I 'm boasting?" "How could I, Uncle Chien?" "Good, good. Tell me something of what you've done. I want to know more of affairs . Only by knowing more of what is happening can the mind be wider in its grasp." Rey Tang told of the things he had seen and heard after he left Peiping. In addition to the facts he gave his opinions. After Rey Tang had finished Old Man Chien spoke, "Good, you have seen China. China is like you and me-full of difficulties and conflicts. I hope that we will not lose courage and that the noble ideals will solve these difficulties and conflicts."

45 1

Chapter Thirteen

'A 1 v' V

Rey Tang found the shoe shop . The shop was two chien wide. The door, windows, and sign­ board were all bare of paint; even the characters on the sign­ board were no longer clear. There was a long crack in the glass of the window which had been pasted up with newspaper. Inside the show window were two or three pairs of shoes, covered with dust. Rey Tang wondered if he had found the right place. He looked again at the sign and the number of the house, and knew that he had made no mistake. Thinking of Uncle Chien' s monk's garb and the little temple, he said to himself, "Only in places like this is it suitable to do underground work." He walked in. The room was dark and there was a smell of dampness mixed with sour paste and opium. He coughed. No one answered. So he gave the pass word, "Manager, have you the shoes with the double­ ridged toes?" There was a sound inside. He waited patiently. He heard a slight noise at the inner door, and a tall thin man who was chewing something came out. He looked like an opium addict. Rey Tang knew that under the Japanese control to smoke opium was a good cover. He took out his wind goggles . In the dust shield at the side of the glasses was hidden a very small badge. He showed it to the man and whispered, "I have come for the money." The man rolled up his eyes. "What money?" Rey Tang knew at once that something was wrong. "Sent by your younger brother." "I have no younger brother." "No-" Rey Tang's black eyes bored into the thin pale face. He wanted to seize that long thin neck, but he knew he must control himself. He was now in Peiping, and if the thin devil should shout once it would certainly bring danger. "Old brother, don't jest." He forced himself to smile and said, "You know how important that money is to me." The thin man seemed to have lost patience, "Get out quickly, I have no time to bandy words with you." Rey Tang saw clearly that the thin devil was cheating him. Sud­ denly he sprang forward, and with one hand seized the thin devil's wrist, and with the other his neck. He could not let him cry out nor did he want to hurt him, but he must frighten him. The thin devil was tall but had no strength. He cried out, plead­ ing, "Let me go, let me go! " 4 52 EAR THE EASTERN FOUR ARCHES,

Rey Tang tightened his grasp slightly. "If you dare to shout I will kill you." "I'll not shout, I'll not shout. Let me go." Rey Tang released the man. "Say what you have to say quickly." The thin devil moistened his lips and looked at Rey Tang. "Well -I 'll tell you the truth. There was such a sum of money. I re­ ceived it, but-but-I used it. I .had no business; I must smoke opium, but I had no money. I know that you and my younger brother are both wonderful people. I am not bad, but-four years' living under the feet of the Japanese, even an Immortal would be­ come a rotten egg." The thin devil, with tears in his eyes, stared stupidly at Rey Tang. Rey Tang forgot what he had planned to say. ''I'm sorry," the thin man said . ''I'm sorry. I know that you are anxious, but the money has all been spent, by me-all." Rey Tang suddenly thought of danger. "Are you planning to sell me? You know my number, my appearance, you-" "No, I won't, I won't. My younger brother is like you. I could not sell you. There is enough misery already in my heart. I also am a Chinese." Rey Tang walked out. He was angry and felt suffocated. He would go to find the secret office of the underground workers. He must report to them, and he wanted to borrow a bicycle since he did not now have the money to buy one. On his way he saw a bicycle leaning against a willow tree, and thought of stealing it. With a bicycle he could go inside and out­ side the city wherever he wanted . The work it made possible would redeem the crime of stealing. He smiled. But he did not steal the bicycle. A Japanese could steal the whole of Peiping but he could not steal a bicycle. As he approached his destination he slackened his pace. He must be cautious-as cautious as a mouse who comes out in the daytime. The gate of the compound was open so he did not need to knock. He walked in with a carefree manner. It was a small courtyard, almost square. The sunshine warmed him and he said to himself, "This little courtyard is really lovable." There was a wooden ladder leaning against the south wall. He walked toward it for he dared not go immediately into the house. He must first feel out the situation from the courtyard, and with his eyes and ears try to detect what was happening in the house. The door of the northern house quietly opened. Rey Tang looked from the corners of his eyes. At the door stood a Chinese who was completely like a Japanese. Rey Tang said to himself, "I'm ruined." Yet he was elated. This 453

was a real battle, not like what had happened in the shoe shop­ frustra ting and silly. He turned and faced that mixture of Chinese and Japanese. "What is your business?" the pseudo-Japanese asked with a wooden face. "What, sir, is your honorable surname?" Rey Tang said with smiles all over his face as he slowly moved forward. "Are you the caretaker of this house? I am from the contractors, the 'Three Pros­ perities Contractors,' and have come to inspect the house." The pseudo-Japanese stared at Rey Tang's face and said nothing. Rey Tang came nearer and lowered his voice. "The owner asks for thirty thousand dollars-thirty thousand dollars ." He stuck out his tongue in derision. "All my goods and chattels ! Thirty thousand dollars for these few small rooms ! The little courtyard is really at­ tractive, but by no means worth thirty thousand dollars." He then made an excuse to move away. "I must go up and look at the roof. Thirty thousand dollars-I must look it over very carefully indeed." He walked again to the southern wall and picked up the ladder. At this moment he saw clearly another face behind the glass in the window of the small eastern house. He went to the roof and carefully inspected the bricks and tiles, knocking on them with his knuckles to see if they were sound. He examined the ends of the rafters under the eaves. He climbed down the ladder and carefully examined the walls, the steps, and the pillars . As he examined he murmured to himself but so that the watchers could hear, "The wood is in good condition, but the walls are made of broken brick-not worth thirty thousand." When he had finished examining everything outside the rooms he put the ladder back where he had found it, and then went into the house to look that over. The eyes of the pseudo-Japanese were all the time fastened on Rey Tang. Rey Tang spent more than half an hour looking over the house. Because of his exertions, his face had flushed and there was sweat on his nose. He wiped his face with the towel, came out of the room, and sat down on the steps . He began to calculate, some­ times audibly and sometimes not. "The rooms are not deep enough, but, on the other hand, if we should build a new house like this it would certainly cost fifty thousand dollars." After calculating awhile, he said loudly, 'Tve put you to trouble, my good sir." Then, as if he were loath to go, looking to the east and to the west, he walked toward the gate. As he neared the gate he wished that he could with one bound leap out. He guessed that this office of the underground had just 454

been discovered and liquidated. Perhaps all the workers had been captured and not so long ago. Those captured would not come back alive. If the records of the office had fallen into the enemy's hands his own secret was more than half lost. But he must not-ten thousand must not-show any anxiety. Very lightly he tapped on the walls beside the gate, and the gate itself, to examine the material and the workmanship, and then sat on the threshold and fanned his face with the towel. Having delayed in this manner he thought that the people in the court­ yard must by now have seen clearly that he was calm and con­ trolled, and believe that he was really from the contractors. Then he stood up, stretched himself, and walked away. And then his heart really seemed to jump and suddenly he sweated all over.

Chapter Fourteen

Nmouths ofShanghai, Peiping, and many other cities the bloody Jphones. the demons of war had long been ready at the micro­ As the planes neared Pearl Harbor, before a bomb had TOKYO,

been dropped, the mouths had opened and spat out what had been prepared, "The American Navy has been entirely destroyed." The Japanese in Peiping were again delirious with joy. -For a long time, in order to save grain, they had been without wine; but today to celebrate the victory over America, every Japanese had wine. This wine of celebration could not be drunk at home . Crowds upon crowds of the dwarfs-carrying their wine bottles, mightily shouting, "Great Japan, ten thousand years"-staggered through the streets, and jumped, and danced. They had defeated America, they were the lords of all humankind. Cars, trams, the heads of pedestrians were targets for their empty bottles. Mixed with the frenzied shouting of the drunks was the cry of "Extra ! Extra !" Each word was as large as the head of one of the lords of creation . 'The American Navy Was Destroyed." Conquer America . Conquer the whole world. The news did not surprise Rey Tang. From the fact that the Japanese, ever since he had come back to Peiping, had been arrest­ ing and killing the underground workers he had guessed that they were trying to clear out all the inside troubles to make war with England and America. He had also seen Meydee walking and making ugly scenes with Westerners. He was jealous and he hated her. He wanted to strangle her with a rope but he dared not touch her. He must re455

press his anger, and repressing it he could guess that behind what Meydee was doing was some deeper plan. From Kaodee's reports he learned that the incoming travelers were being searched more strictly at the railway stations, and that women and children were being allowed to leave the city to save grain for a long war. He knew that China and America must fight together, shoulder to shoulder, and felt that his own part in the war was exciting and dangerous. He would probably be used for spying out the mili­ tary situation in North China. How dangerous and difficult that would be! Ha! Suppose he really was sent out to get military in­ formation he would then be joining the international war. He was elated : his black eyes became as bright as two little lamps. In the Little Sheep Fold the old Japanese woman in house Num­ ber One shut her gate tight. She would not allow the two children to go out. She had been born and grown up in America . She knew how great was America's wealth . And since modern war was a competition between nations in gold and machines she knew that America would outweigh Japan no matter how much the Japanese were willing to fight and to die. The frenzy of war had already turned her men into dust and the women into prostitutes . She now saw the danger of destruction to the whole of Japan. She did not, however, dare to speak her prophecy; all she could do was to shut her gate and shut out the madness. The Japanese men and women from Number Three all went out on the streets to shout and dance and make drunken play. When they had had enough in the streets they came back to the Little Sheep Fold, and swaggered and staggered around the old locust trees. The whites of their eyes became red; their faces changed sud­ denly from red to green and back to red again . Sometimes, like dogs and cats, they rolled on the ground. Ah ! These were the lords of humanity. About half of John Ting was dead. His English Palace was sealed. His archangel Mr. Goodrich had been arrested. His God had left him. He could have believed that the sky would suddenly fall and the earth sink but he could not have believed that the English Palace could have been sealed. His world had come to an end. He had seen Mr. Goodrich being taken out and put into the prisoners' van . And he himself had not been able to bring out even his bedding, or his clothes, or the tins of food . He had been kicked out of the English Palace by a Japanese soldier. Mr. Goodrich had been arrested before daybreak. The scholars 45 6

in the Japanese army had long ago investigated and found out that he had collected quite a few Chinese works of art, so the things in "Little Liu Li Chang" were all confiscated. They also knew that it was Mr. Goodrich's ambition to write a book on Peiping. They searched carefully and looked over his manuscript page by page, and then sealed it to use in writing their own books. They were civilized bandits. John Ting ran back to the Little Sheep Fold as if chased by the devil, and before he even went home he had to go and knock on the Chi family gate. In the Little Sheep Fold, in the whole of Peiping, he felt he had not a close friend except Rey Shuan. Did not Rey Shuan also work in the English Palace? Rey Shuan had not yet got up and Yun Mei was building the fire. She ran out quickly when she heard the knocking at the gate. "Mrs. Chi, it's I ." John Ting did not wait to be asked but started right into the gate. "Where is Mr. Chi? There are important matters, important matters." As he spoke he had already reached the courtyard. Old Man Chi had long since wakened, but because of the cold he was still curled up in bed. Hearing the commotion in the court, he asked, "Who is it?" John Ting answered from outside the window, "Honorable Old Sir, we are finished, finished." "What has happened?" The old man sat up and drew the bolt on the door. John Ting rushed into the room. "English Palace," he choked, "the English Palace has been sealed, Mr. Goodrich put in the prison van. The world is upside down ." "English Palace. Mr. Goodrich?" Old Man Chi had some super­ stitions about foreigners . From his youth China had been op­ pressed by the W estemers, and his emperors and his presidents had forbidden him to resist. Gradually it had become a habit to bear the humiliation. After four years of Japanese occupation he indeed learned that he should hate the Japanese, but toward the Western foreigners he had not changed his old fixed ideas. The Japanese had even dared to touch the English Palace! "There is no mistake. The English Palace and Mr. Goodrich are both finished ." John Ting rubbed his eyes for the sweat had got into them. Just then Rey Shuan walked in with his wadded coat wrapped around him. "Mr. Chi," John Ting called as though he had seen a very close friend, and there were tears in his voice. "Mr. Chi, we are finished." 457

Rey Shuan's reaction to the bad news was not as strong as his grandfather's. He had long guessed that there would be a day like this. His concern was entirely for Mr. Goodrich's safety. Mr. Good­ rich was-no matter what one said-his good teacher and friend of many years. The grandfather again spoke, "What will we do? If I starve to death it will not be serious. I have already lived long enough . Your mother, wife, son, and daughter-will they all starve to death also?" Rey Shuan' s face burned. He could not help Mr. Goodrich and he could not answer his grandfather's question . He had come to the end of the road. Yun Mei spoke from outside the door. "Mr. Ting, you had bet­ ter go home and rest. 'Heaven allows no road to end.' " She knew that in life many roads ended but one could not say that. She wanted John Ting to leave so Rey Shuan could think quietly of what to do. She knew that the more excited Rey Shuan became the more impossible it would be for him to plan. While the Japanese in the Little Sheep Fold were shouting and dancing around the old locust trees, a very small life came to Cheng Chang Shun to carry on the burning of incense to the ancestors . Chang Shun was as though drunk, and could not tell north from south or east from west. He seemed to hear something about a Pearl Harbor, he seemed to see the Japanese dancing drunkenly on the streets; but it was all vague, and he saw nothing clearly. He hastened to fetch the midwife. He hastened to buy the necessary things. Coming in and going out, he felt that he was like the Japanese-that he was also somewhat crazy He wanted to know what Pearl Harbor was, and what its rela­ tion to the war; but he was still more anxious about his wife. At this time he felt that his wife was more important than anyone else in the world, and that to give birth to a child was more worth while than anything else in the world. The world war was not of as great importance as the birth of a child. Old Widow Ma had lost her ordinary composure in anxiety for the safety of her granddaughter-in-law, and of the great-grandson . She forgot all the sufferings of the last few years under the Japa­ nese and began to feel her own worth and importance. It was she who had brought Chang Shun to manhood. It was she who had married a wife for him . It was she who was about to become a great-grandmother. Her position would then be as high as that of Old Man Chi.

Her white hair came loose and on her white cheeks appeared two patches of red. She did not worry whether there was a Pearl Harbor or no Pearl Harbor. She was concerned only that she would soon have a great-grandchild. The people of the Little Sheep Fold, hearing of the auspicious event, quickly put the war aside and placed their eyes and ears on the events in the Cheng family. At least, the child about to be born balanced the war. They felt that to give birth to a child at this time was very brave. They could not but admire Cheng Chang Shun and Little Mrs . Cheng. Little Mrs. Cheng did not know anything, did not know about Pearl Harbor, did not know to what the world would come in the midst of the tears and blood. She even could think no more about Little Tsui and the Japanese who had killed him. She knew only the pain in her body, and in between the periods of greatest pain, the practical hope of giving birth to a child. She forgot everything and remembered only that the source of all life, the foundation of the human race, was to give birth to a child. The child was born . It was a boy. The sound of guns in the whole world could not overcome his cry. This mournful, sharp, weak, and yet great cry stirred all the people of the Little Sheep Fold. It was as though in the darkness they could see some light and hope. On the second day after the birth of the child England and America both declared war on Japan. Chang Shun wanted to give a name to the wrinkle-faced baby but he could not put his mind to it. When he looked at the baby he felt that he had added to his stature, but when he thought of the world war he felt that he had no value. On the third day-the day of the formal congratulations·, and present giving, and of the baby's ceremonious bath-China de­ clared war on Germany, Italy, and Japan. Calling on all his intelli­ gence and knowledge Cheng Chang Shun could not understand why China had waited until this day to declare war. But whether he understood or not he felt that it was right to declare war. He thought that since they had waited until today to declare war with Japan it must be that China had the certainty of victory. He looked at his son again. Without thinking he called the child's name out loud, "Victory, Victory." And the baby opened his eyes . But Little Victory's third day passed without excitement. The neighbors all wanted to come over and express their good wishes, but none of them could afford to bring the right gifts, and felt they could not come with empty hands. Old Widow Ma had 459

planned to prepare festive wine to entertain the callers, but even if she had had the ready money she would not have been able to buy the wine and the dishes that went with the wine. Only Fourth Mistress Li-no one knew from where-had got five eggs . She brought them wrapped in a marvelously dirty napkin . As she handed over the five eggs she released all the vile and obscene words accumulated in a lifetime, because she had lived a long life and had never before brought only five eggs to wish a new mother happiness . Old Man Chi heard the Cheng family's happy news and was so frustrated that he sighed constantly. He was the Old Man Star of the Little Sheep Fold and he should go to the Cheng family and drink to their happiness . But he could not go. He had no gift. Mrs . Tien Yiu heard the old man's sighs and quickly searched everywhere to find something that could be used as a gift. From the bottom of the tall vase for holding the feather dusters she found a large copper coin of the Tao Kuang reign . She polished the coin to make it shine, and then finding some red threads she wound them through the square hole in the middle to decorate the coin. Then she gave it to Niu Niu, for Niu Niu to say to the old man, 'Take this to the Cheng family, will it do?" The old man nodded. Taking his great-grandson and his great­ granddaughter, he went to the Cheng family to prove that he really was the Star of Longevity. After Old Man Chi had gone with the two children Rey Shuan stood awhile outside the gate. Just as he was about to turn and go in a Buddhist monk came to him and said, "Mi To Fu-Amitabha Buddha." Rey Shuan stood still . The monk looked to the right and left and seeing that there was no one brought out a small piece of paper from inside his wide sleeve and gave it to Rey Shuan . Then placing his hands together in the ceremonious religious gesture, he turned and went away. Rey Shuan went quickly into his own courtyard. He rounded the spirit screen before he dared to look at the paper in his hand . He saw at a glance that the writing was Old Three's. His heart beat so quickly he had to look three times before he could see clearly what was written : "At two o'clock this afternoon meet me at the back gate of Central Park. Come without fail." Holding the piece of paper he ran into his room and threw himself on the bed. It was as though he could not stand. Lying on the bed the first idea that came into his head was, "I was the one who told Old Three to go away." This made him pleased with himself and proud.

He wanted to tell Yun Mei, "You were right when you said that Old Three had come back." He wanted to tell his mother, and his grandfather, and all the neighbors, "Our hero has come back." But he did not move. He must keep his hero's secret. Only he himself knew that Old Three had come back and he was the eldest brother of a hero. The weather was cool but there was no wind. Shabby and poor Peiping, under the sunshine, seemed shabby but proud to Rey Shuan. In the distance he saw the red walls of the Purple Forbidden City and the corner tower with its seventy-two gable ends. He slackened his steps and looked at his watch. It was only one o'clock. He decided to enter the park. What if Rey Tang had come early? There were not many people in the park. There were no tea tables on the banks of the Forbidden City moat and there were many cedar nuts on the ground. He walked toward the south. A few young men and women were ska ting in the rink. He found a long bench beside a cypress tree and sat down. The sunlight shone on his head and made him drowsy. He quickly stood up. He must not nod and nap and be late for the time appointed to see Old Three. Two o'clock seemed never to come. He started to walk toward the back gate of the park to go out, but before he reached it, a youth wearing a wadded coat came in. Could that be Old Three ! Old Three ran to his eldest brother. "Ha-we meet unexpectedly, Eldest Brother Rey!" Old Three's voice was very loud as if he wanted to be heard by all the people in the park. The brothers sat down under an old cypress tree. Rey Shuan wanted to tell all the story of the last four years. But he could not get the words out. Old Three was no longer his younger brother but was the symbol of a strength that seemed not to belong to Rey Shuan's generation . That strength was like a light, shining today, and perhaps tomorrow, or the next year, or the next generation, and would shine for history, like the light of a star that shines and then goes out can still be seen for generations to come. He could not talk of his own difficulties to such strength and light, as a glow worm could not show its light in the sunshine. Old Three began to talk. "Eldest Brother, what will you do?" "Ummh-" It was as though Rey Shuan did not understand. "I said, what are you going to do? You have lost your job haven't you?" "Ahhh-right." Rey Shuan nodded several times. "Eldest Brother," Rey Tang said in a low voice, "tell me quickly, will you teach school?"

"Where should I go to teach school?" Rey Shuan thought that Old Three wanted him to go outside Peiping. "Here." "Here?" Rey Shuan thought of much to say. "In the past four years I have suffered untold misery because I would not eat the food of the Japanese. I achieved nothing positive, but passively I maintained my integrity. Now you want me to go and teach, and teach in Peiping. No matter how good my reason, others would not forgive me. A whole lifetime would not be long enough to wash me clean . When the day of victory comes and the old friends return what face would I have to meet them? I would be of the black market." Rey Shuan's words flowed. He had not thought that as soon as he saw Old Three he would be arguing in this outspoken way. He felt inore tranquil. "I will teach on condition-" "'Vhat condition?" "On the condition that you give me something to prove that my work is 'work' and not co-operation with the Japanese." Old Three thought awhile and said, "I have not the authority to give anyone any proof, Eldest Brother." Then not waiting for his eldest brother to speak he went on quickly, "I have to tell you to be a teacher-to be the teacher I want would be to co-operate with me. It will be dangerous. Every two or three days teachers and students are arrested in some school in Peiping. The one who knows the danger and is still willing to go and teach is the one I am looking for. "The war in the Pacific has just begun, and I may have to go more into the country after military information. It would be best to let Uncle Chien take the responsibility for the propaganda work that I have been handling. I cannot put that responsibility into your hands as it would be too dangerous. But, at least, you can help Uncle Chien and write things for him to use. If you should go to the school and teach and have contact with the young people, you will naturally have much material for your writing. What do you think, Eldest Brother?" Rey Shuan's mind seemed to be like a stage after the curtain has been raised. There was a floodlight shining on the scene and the actors. He was one of the actors . He had found his place in the war.

Chapter Fifteen I'AN THE EASTERN SUN had moved around among the secret serv­ N ice. In one day he had arrested twelve students and one teacher from the School of Railway Administration. What all these 46 2

thirteen confessed was the same-contact with Chungking. Their fate was the same-death. The Headmaster of the Railway School was discharged. Lan the Eastern Sun became Acting Headmaster. His greatest objective was to squeeze the grain of the students. Thirteen lives to accomplish for him this greatest of his ambitions ! He was excited and pleased with himself. He was now a department head and a headmaster. He felt that he was indeed great, as great as the Japanese soldiers who had competed to slaughter and rape in Nanking. He had spent two hours preparing a speech for his inauguration. He wrote it in the classic style. He knew that the Japanese liked the Chinese who wrote in the classic style. But before he could read his speech Fat Chrysanthemum had already driven out the chief accountant who had been appointed by Eastern Sun and had herself taken the post. The key to that treasury that had been bought with thirteen lives was taken by Fat Chrysanthemum. Eastern Sun bit his fingernails until they bled. He wanted to order the servants of the school to bind her and take her home, but she had already drafted Meydee as her personal guard. Meydee's title was Dean of the Girl Students. Eastern Sun dared not offend Meydee. Up to the time of Pearl Harbor, Meydee had watched the West­ erners and had been very successful. She not only spied on the Americans and the English, but had drawn the Germans, Italians, French, and Russians into her net. Her body had become inter­ national. Because she was used to being with Westerners she entirely ignored the Chinese; she thought of Chinese men as impotent. To seek the second best she would make friends with the Japanese men . She had lost the Eastern woman's quietude and shyness, and thought of herself as starting a new pattern. Lan the Eastern Sun dared not offend Meydee nor did he dare punish Fat Chrysanthemum. Rey Tang thought out carefully and dispassionately how to deal with these three. When he had made up his mind he met Meydee casually and as if by accident. Meydee now had quite a bit of leisure. All the Westerners in Peiping who should · be in concentration camps were in concen­ tration camps, and those who were not to be in prison had arm bands showing what country they came from. She needed no lon ger to cultivate them. She was not interested in the work of the school but was only 46 3

helping Fat Chrysanthemum. She went to the school in the aft­ ernoons only, to see if any students needed discipline, and whom she . should frighten a time or two. She would then slip away from the school and go to the places of amusement to pass her time. Her mother had had a home but she had none where she could entertain her friends. When she was at leisure, however, she was welcome everywhere. No one dared to treat her coldly. The gambling houses, the opium dens, the brothels, the theaters, and the cinemas all welcomed her. Difficulties could be solved easily if one had her as a friend. On this day Meydee had made up to be unusually beautiful. To dress herself up had become her greatest comfort and enjoy­ ment. She knew that she was a flower that would soon fade and that she must use great care in dressing and make-up, and she was afraid each morning to look in the mirror. Without the red lips and the penciled eyebrows it seemed she did not know herself. Her lips and cheeks were painted red and her eyebrows like bamboo leaves. Although there was no wind she had a white gauze scarf over her hair. Her red dress of thin light wool fitted her closely, and showed clearly her breasts and hips . Hanging from her shoulders was a short Persian lamb coat which showed her plump and beautiful legs. The gauze on her head, her red gown, and her fur coat had all been bought with her body. She could not remember which had been given her by which White Russian, and which she had ac­ cepted from a French merchant. She felt only that she should be proud of herself, that in this Peiping that lacked everything, she still could dress so well . Rey Tang followed Meydee from a short distance. He was troubled in his heart. That girl who looked like a bird of prey had been his boyhood love and an angel. He looked at her back. His warm young blood rose like a tide in his mind. Would he want to keep company with a bird of prey? Nonsense. The tide of his hot blood receded. He must control himself. He was not a young man of peaceful years . He must be cold and make himself as hard and cold as a piece of ice. He straightened his back to show that he was firm and hard. At th e front gate of the North Sea Park he pushed forward and bought the entrance tickets . "Meydee, do you remember me?" he asked with a slight smile on his face. He was afraid that because his clothes were so poor Meydee might not be willing to recognize him. But Meydee at once recognized him and smiled almost naturally. "Oh .. you, Old Three."

In her smile Old Three suddenly saw the Meydee of before the war, as sometimes in the mirror he could see himself of eight or ten years ago. He looked at her again. No, she did not look like the Meydee of before the war, but he still hoped to see that Meydee. That was the Meydee' he had loved-loved in his dreams . · He forced himself to smile and went with her into the park. He stepped forward and walked shoulder tb shoulder with her. Quite naturally she gave him her arm . When he touched her arm Rey Tang felt a lightness and ex­ hilaration . Immediately he gave himself a warning, "Be careful, be careful." He moved closer to her but his heart lost that lightness and exhilaration. He was arm in arm with a prostitute, a spy, an enemy. If he let himself be moved by her he was a lost dog. She leaned on him . "Where have you been amusing yourself these last few years?" she asked in a casual manner as though it did not matter whether she asked or not. He looked at her face again and in his heart he spat. If he had the slightest desire to love her it would be low and shameful. He was a good Son of Han who had traveled to the south and to the north; he should regard as valuable his dignity as a Son of Han . "Who, me? Don't you know?" He must show some of his cunning; he was an underground worker dealing with a member of the secret service. "I really don't know." "What does it matter whether you know or don't know?" he said in a hard voice. After walking a few steps she suddenly laughed. "Have you a girl?" Rey Tang could not guess whether she was teasing him or whether she was laughing at herself. "No, I'm always thinking of you." 'That's hard to believe." She smiled again but immediately be­ came silent. Rey Tang thought that no matter how low she had fallen she was after all a human being. There was still some feeling which could not be changed. There were not many people in the park. When they came close to a great old willow tree Meydee's shoulder touched Rey Tang's arm. They walked behind the tree. When they reached the back of the tree she embraced him. Rey Tang looked down and saw her face, her eyebrows, eyes, and the red lips so brightly colored. It seemed as if he were not looking 46 5

at a face but at a palette smeared with thick paints. He wanted to push her away, but her breasts and legs were against him-very soft and seductive. She kissed him. He could not help but hold her more closely. She was no longer soiled, nor low, nor dangerous . She was his once-beloved. Her face and body were fragrant. Softly and slowly she said, "Old Three, I still love you, truly." Pretending to be touched Rey Tang hung his head. "Now what? You can't even talk." She had changed again. She shifted the weight of her coat and walked away. Rey Tang hurried after her. He could not let her go. She had kissed him and said that she loved him, but he had to remember how much young blood there was on her hands . No, he could not let her go. He must be as hardhearted and ruthless as she. Reaching her side he again took hold of her arm. "Ha ! You still have the same disposition. At the slightest crossing of your will you change and become angry." "Of course," she said with her mouth twisted. "Don't be a fool . I don't give my kisses for nothing." "I have nothing to give you but my love." Old Three could hear that his words were empty and unconvincing. "Oh, you are still the way you were years ago-" Suddenly she refused to say any more. "You-what about you?" Meydee still said nothing but came closer to him. After walking a few more steps she lifted her face and looked at him. "Old Three, I will give you whatever you want. Really, I really love you." Old Three did not know how to answer her. "Really, whatever you want I will give you," she said again. Old Three saw that to Meydee there was no difference between love and lust. He aroused her old feeling for him and she wanted to express that old love with lust. She was still the pure Meydee of the old days and at the same time she was a prostitute who sold her body. Old Three warned himself, "Forget that she is Meydee, for� get that she is a prostitute, remember only that she is an agent of the Japanese secret service." They had reached the foot of the White Dagoba which seemed tall and slender in the thin sunlight. "Shall we go into the grottoes under the Dagoba?" she sug� gested without the slightest shame. "Won't it be cold there?" Rey Tang purposely pretended to be stupid.

"It is warm there in the winter and cool in the sum mer." She began to walk fast. When they first went in, the grotto was quite dark and Meydee held Rey Tang's hand. Her hand was so warm, Rey Ta ng began to breathe quickly. She was not a prostitute or a member of the secret police; she was his love. They went slowly down several stairways and came to a litt le piece of level ground where there was a square stone table and four little stone stools. At the top of the cave was a hole through which came a little light. Meydee sat on one of the small stone stools and Rey Tang sat beside her. The light in the cave was weak and the red on her face and lips was less glaring. Reg Tang seemed to see the Meydee of old. "What are you thinking about, Old Three?'' Meydee asked. "I? I am not thinking about anything." "You?" She smiled at him. "Don't lie to me. I know all about your business ." Rey Tang glanced quickly in all directions to see if there were anyone hiding. "Don't be afraid. I am alone here. I can handle you alone." "What do you mean?'' "Don't you understand? You see, we once loved each other." Rey Tang nodded. "Good. We are now in the same business, but it is not necessary that-as the proverb says-'those in the same business are enemies.' " "How are we in the same business?" "You don't need to play stupid and speechless before me. Speak out. Your life is in my hands. If I say for you to die you will im­ mediately die." "Then why don't you say it?" Rey Tang smiled. "I have my plans." Meydee also smiled. "You want me to work with you. Is that it?" "That's about it. You give me your information. I will give you my love." "What will you give me?" "Love, love." Rey Tang to carry the pretense took her hand. "Give me your love-give me at once." "At once? You haven't accepted my terms ." "First love me and I will promise everything." He drew her toward the inner cave. .

The cave became narrower and narrower, and darker and darker. Meydee began to be suspicious. "Won't this place do? Why should we go further?" Rey Tang was silent. Suddenly he seized her around the neck with both hands. She did not make another sound. Rey Tang dragged the corpse to the innermost part of the cave. He wiped the sweat from his head, and then took Meydee's badge and one of her rings and put them in his own pocket. Standing there he called in a low voice, "Meydee," and he seemed to hear her laughter, that laughter of many years ago. He ran out quickly. Outside the cave the sunshine, although not very strong, made him shut his eyes. He opened his eyes and began to walk quickly away. When he left the park and saw the people walking, and the carts and horses, he was almost frightened . A moment ago in that black cave . . . now sunshine, streets, people walking and the traffic. His hands that a moment ago had been so hard and power­ ful were now shaking. He looked at the moat of the Forbidden City. He wanted to put his hands through the cracks in the ice to wash them . But he must go to find Fat Chrysanthemum. Hum! Another foul and stinking woman ! His stomach turned. There was no other way, for this was his work and he must do it. He waited in the neighborhood of the Lan house for Fat Chry­ santhemum. When he lifted his head he could see the \Vhite Dagoba . It was so white in the blue heavens, so tall and beautiful . "Second Sister-in-law," Rey Tang seeing Chrysanthemum about to enter her gate ran over and called her. Before Chrysanthemum had recognized Rey Tang's appearance she had recognized his voice. The blood drained from her face. She stood still. "Go, go inside," Rey Tang commanded in a low voice. Fat Chrysanthemum walked in hanging her head. Old Three followed her closely. When she got in to the house she seemed very tired and threw her fat weight on the sofa. She had no regrets but much fear. She was afraid that Rey Tang had come to avenge Rey Feng. Except for her dealings with Rey Feng she did not feel that she had done anything that could be considered wrong. Her conduct of the past few years she thought to be according to the seasons and to have been of the right degrees. Rey Tang took out Meydee's badge and ring and held them in his palm. "Do you know these?" Chrysanthemum nodded.

"She is finished. She was the first. You will be the second." Chrysanthemum's fat flesh was all numb. Instinctively she wanted to run away but she could not move. "Old Three, Old Three, I am not of the same group with Meydee. I don't know about her affairs, I don't know." "But you know what you have done." "I-I have never done anything bad." Rey Tang put the badge down and the ring, and raised up the hand that had just killed. He must give Fat Chrysanthemum some­ thing bitter to eat. Right and left he slapped that fat face hard. She cried out. Rey Tang seized the hair that had been curled with money taken in exchange for people's lives . "If you make any noise I will kill you at once." The fat woman shut her mouth . Blood ran out of the corners. She had never been beaten but she now knew what pain was. "Don't strike me again, don't." She held her face with both of her hands. "What you want I will give you." Hearing this speech Old Three was even more angry. Her words were the same as Meydee's, equally low and shameless . "You are afraid of death?" Rey Tang asked her. "I can ask you for your life at any time and at any place." "Spare me, Old Three." "Listen-if you dare to squeeze one single catty of grain from the students I will send you to find Meydee. Do you understand?" "I understand." "If Eastern Sun dares to kill another student I will hold you re­ sponsible." "His affairs-I-" "I have other means to deal with him. I am telling you that if you know and do not try to stop him, I will kill you first. Do you understand?" "I understand." "There is a place in the school for a teacher of literature. You must tell Eastern Sun to invite Eldest Brother to the post. With Eldest Brother in the school I will know your every single action and those of Eastern Sun . Don't waste your energies discussing with Eastern Sun how to catch me. If I am alive you two can live. If I am put in prison you will both die. I have many fellow workers in this city. They would avenge me. Do you understand?" "I understand." "Here." Rey Tang took out a small envelope. Inside was a cart­ ridge. "Give this to Eastern Sun . Tell him I brought it. And 46 9

here is this ." He threw Meydee's ring into Chrysanthemum's lap. "Give this to him also. If you do not listen to me, you will die the way Meydee died." Old Three took up Meydee' s badge and went out.

'?'HE

Chapter Sixteen

MONK, Clear Moon, again took a message to Rey Shuan . \/ "To go is dangerous . Not to go is also dangerous . I only hope that you will find new life since the old road has come to a dead end . In war one must take sides. To stand in the middle is perhaps worse than to be a traitor." When Rey Shuan read this letter that had no head or tail or signature he could not help smiling. He waited calmly for the document of invitation from the school. He decided that when it came he would go and teach even if it should become his execution ground. There had been four years of war and this was the first time that he had felt decisive, and also happy. He was standing side by side with Old Three, and even if this should involve the whole family, and they should all die together, he would not retreat. The invitation came. Lan the Eastern Sun's signature and seal were on it. If this had happened in the past Rey Shuan would have felt the greatest shame and humiliation. He would rather have starved than call Eastern Sun "Headmaster." But on this day he was elated. The family, learning the good news, pushed forward to ask all about the new post. Rey Shuan told them only that he had a new job and that there was hope for grain. He did not say how he got the job or who was the headmaster of the school. When Old Man Chi heard the good news he twisted his white eyebrows and nodded his head continuously, and smacked his lips. "Ai, the Old Heaven has eyes, the Old Heaven has eyes." Rey Shuan looked at his grandfather and felt that he was no longer on the border line between Yin and Yang-between the shades and life-but that he was alive again. He did not know whether he should laugh or cry.

Fat Chrysanthemum hoped that she could with politeness and patience appease Rey Shuan so that he would understand that she still regarded him as her eldest brother, and would forget that matter of the Second. She hoped that the Chi family would become friendly with the Lan family, that Eastern Sun could still keep 470

the position of headmaster in the school, and that she could still keep the key of the treasury. She felt that her plan was entirely reasonable and righteo"us. When Rey Tang had slapped her, her first thought had been for revenge. She had told Eastern Sun to go at once and report, and have the gates of the city closed to catch Rey Tang, and then to have the whole Chi family put to death. The pain and insult to her fat face could .only be washed clean by the blood of the Chi family. But as soon as Eastern Sun saw the cartridge and Meydee's ring he was so frightened that he wet his trousers. Eastern Sun's success depended on two things : his own shamelessness and the tameness of the people of Peiping. Now as he looked at that cartridge he saw a man of Peiping who dared to risk his life. A white frost cov­ ered his green face, both his eyeballs rolled up. He saw danger and death and he was afraid of death. He quickly shut the gate and had the door of his room and the windows bolted and locked. After he had closed the door and the windows tightly he put his trembling fingers to his lips and cruelly bit his nails. His first thought was to ask the Japanese to protect him . Suppose a squad, or better still a company, of infantry were around his house he could probably lie on his high pillows without worry. But could that be done? If he should ask for protection and the Japanese sent only one or two members of the secret service­ of what use would that be? He thought it over and over and decided that the best way was : first, to ask for a few days' sick leave and lock himself in his room; second, to think of a way to make a compromise with Rey Tang; third, if Rey Tang would not compromise he would think up a way to get to Japan. He could not always stay in Peiping waiting for a bullet. Fat Chrysanthemum seeing that Eastern Sun was so frightened . could only rub her face and think of delaying tac tics . She must go to the Chi family. If she bought some gifts for the old and young they would surely be grateful to her, and perhaps in the course of the conversation she would get some real news about Old Three. · Even if they were very careful and did not talk about Old Three she could at least watch their words and expressions and look through the crevices. Even if she saw nothing at all it would do no harm to restore "good relations between the two nations," and after the restoration of relations she would gradually persuade them to co-operate with her. 47 1

She bought two or three gifts and took them herself to the Chi familyA She thought herself both courageous and intelligent. Entering the Little Sheep Fold she looked all around. Everything in the Little Sheep Fold was the same except that the walls and gates were older and shabbier and looked like the slums in the movies. She felt that she had been very intelligent to have escaped from this slum; otherwise she would have been no more than a flower stuck in a pile of dog's dung. Since the sunshine was warm Mrs. Tien Yiu was sitting on the threshold of her room enjoying the sun. The two children were in front of the steps . Little Niu Niu was so undernourished she seemed to have forgotten how to play and was standing idly watching her brother. Little Precious was also very thin but he could still jump about and play. The two children saw Chrysanthemum first. They did not re­ member her very well. In their daily chatter they still spoke of their "fat aunt" but her appearance had gradually blurred in their little minds. Little Precious said only, "Yo !" and nothing else. Mrs . Tien Yiu slowly opened her eyes and recognized Chrysan­ themum at a glance. She stood up and said, "Little Precious, Niu Niu, come in, both of you ." Then taking the hands of the two children she went into her room. The old lady knew how to main­ tain good feeling in the four generations in the same house, but she could not tolerate a loose woman like Fat Chrysanthemum . Fat Chrysanthemum became angry. She had thought that the old lady would accept the face she offered . No, she must not be angry . A diplomat could not afford to be angry, and she had come to restore diplomatic relations. She called, "Eldest Sister-in-law." She knew that the sister-in-law was easier to deal with. Yun Mei was in the kitchen and without looking out had already recognized Chrysanthemum by her voice. The color of her face changed immediately. She never wanted to offend any­ one but she also made a clear distinction between right and wrong. Should she or should she not go out and greet that fat sister-in-law? She also knew that "when the owl comes to the house it is not for nothing" applied to Fat Chrysanthemum, but what the busi­ ness was she could not guess. She decided not to make any sound. If Fat Chrysanthemum had come to make trouble she would be greeting a shameless woman and at the same time getting herself involved in the trouble. Old Man Chi heard that "Eldest Sister-in-law" and thinking that guests had come slowly opened the door of his room. When 4 72

the old man saw Chrysanthemum he looked quickly at the sky as if to ask the Old Heavenly Grandfather for instructions as to how to deal with this woman. "Grandfather, I have brought you a present." Fat Chrysanthe­ mum was determined to control her anger and display her diplo­ matic skill. The old man's bearded mouth moved several times without being able to say anything. Fat Chrysanthemum started to go into the old man's room. She held the gifts in front of her to attract his attention . The old man stopped her. With a loud voice he said, "Roll! " Then his speech spurted like water from a pump, "Roll away ! Get out! You have the face to come here and bring gifts to me. If I should accept your presents my ancestors could not lie quietly in their graves . Roll !" At this moment Yun Mei came out of the kitchen . She was afraid the fat · woman would say something that the old man could not endure. Standing in the door of the kitchen she said in a loud voice, "You haven't gone yet? Go! " Fat Chrysanthemum had n o choice but t o turn around. She first thought to throw the presents on the ground as an insult, but she hesitated and then held them more tightly. Yun Mei came quickly over and said to the grandfather, "Grand­ father, you'd better rest a bit." The old man still had much he wanted to say, but he was so angry and confused he said not a word. When Rey Shuan came home and heard the report from the family he said to himself, "Not bad, the Chi family have bones after all."

&

Chapter Seventeen ' SUN S

SICK LEAVE was extended. When he helped the Japanese to create terrorism, he had never thought what ter­ rorism itself was like. He had never thought about how the young boys and girls trembled when they were arrested, or how broken were their parents' hearts . He knew only that he had position and wealth, and that knowledge made him happy. But now he knew also that Rey Tang had brought him a cart­ ridge. He dared not touch the cartridge. He thought that if he should touch it, it would explode. It was so shiny and so cold, always looking at him, following him like an eyeball which could move. 473 ASTERN

He did not think of retribution for he had never admitted to himself that he had any guilt, that he had committed any crime. He was now looking directly at death. He did not admit his crimes nor could he think of redemption. Redemption such as religious people believe in could give hope, but he had no hope. He was afraid, afraid. Gnawing his fingernails he screamed and rushed to his bed. He covered his head with the bedclothes. He held his breath for a long time and hid, sweating. He dared not raise the bedclothes . He felt that death was waiting for him outside his quilts. Only when Fat Chrysanthemum came home did he dare push aside the bedding and sit up . He called her over and frenziedly embraced her. He bit her fat arm savagely. She was his fat woman, before he died he must bite her, grind her under his feet, so would he get his money's worth . After he had bitten her he looked around the room, at the things in the room, and counted how much money he had. He shouted, "I mustn't die, I mustn't die." Without waiting to put on his shoes he went for pencil and paper to list all the furniture, clothes, teapots, and rice bowls he had. He even listed the brooms and the feather dusters. The higher the numbers he put down the more elated he became and the more frightened. If he should die soon to whom would he leave all these things? No, he would not leave them to Fat Chrysanthe­ mum. She had married him only because of his money and position; he would not leave her his goods. He again embraced her and putting his mouth against her face said, "You must die with me, with me." Yes, he must have a companion to lie with him in the coffin, or after death he would be afraid day and night. Fat Chrysanthemum drew away from him. He ground his teeth . Ha! She was · after all one of the Chi family ! She would probably return to the Chi family and marry Rey Tang. He pled with Chrysanthemum not to leave him again. At the same time he discussed with her how he could escape from Peiping. Yes, he must escape from Peiping. Once he was out of Peiping Rey Tang would not be able to find him. There was under heaven only one Rey Tang. Once he got somewhere else he could again wear the big purple and the big red. Except for Rey Tang he had no enemies. But if he should escape how would he manage to take all his things with him? Those tables and stools were far from being as important as gold and silver, but, after all, they were his; and 474 '

whether they were of wood or of porcelain they all had his blood in them. But if he took too much he would certainly be stopped by the Japanese. In the night if he heard a report-perhaps a rickshaw tire burst­ ing-he would with one roll be under the bed and cover his face with both hands . This anxiety and fear made him lose his appetite but he forced much food down himself. He must eat, so he would have the strength to resist. After he had eaten he could not digest the food and his breath stank even more. Since all the doors and windows were tightly closed, after a day or two the air in the room was like that in a fox's hole. His sick leave aroused the suspicions of the Japanese. The Japa­ nese doctor came to examine him. The doctor knocked and opened the door. The stench of the fox nearly suffocated the doctor. Quickly he opened all the · windows . Ordinarily if a Japanese doctor should have come to visit him how many times Eastern Sun would have bowed. This day, how­ ever, he was not pleased. On the contrary he was afraid. Were not those who worked for the Japanese often poisoned by them? The doctor gave him medicine for his indigestion but he would not take it. The doctor administered the medicine as he would to a fractious child. Eastern Sun lay on the bed and was sure that he would die. He began to weep. The medicine moved down and shortly his bowels began to rumble. He was sure he had been given arsenic. He struggled out of bed and again shut all the windows and the door� and then relieved himself in the room . His abdomen being a little more comfortable he smiled. Oh no, the Japanese doctor had not given him poison. He was still the confidant of the Japanese. Good, he must find a sure way to escape from Peiping. Ah, why not? Why not go to Japan? That was his fatherland. Fat Chrysanthemum was in the midst of planning for herself. She did not feel it unfair to Eastern Sun that she was unwilling to wait on him. She had already patiently supplied her fat flesh to him for more than three years; she need not go out of the way to try to please him. If she wanted to leave-taking Eastern Sun's money with her­ she must leave at once. She could not wait until he had recovered. His illness was her opportunity. She had already changed into gold and silver the money she had taken from Eastern Sun, and hid it in her maternal home. 475

But who could say that the Japanese would not search her maternal home if Eastern Sun should die? She should run away and run quickly. If she ran away now she could not only save the things she had hidden at her maternal home, but she could also take away a part of Eastern Sun's valuables. If, for instance, she could escape to Shanghai or Nanking, with the gold in her hands and the techniques she had learned all these years from Big Red Pepper and from Eastern Sun, she could cer­ tainly build up a new stove to cook up something new. She could not calculate any longer. She must leave quickly, and seize the opportunity while Eastern Sun lay half dead and half alive, to take all the valuables to her maternal home, and then­ with Eastern Sun's seal-cash his bank account. Taking the most valuable things and the cash, and leaving the less valuable at her maternal home, she went to Tientsin. When Eastern Sun discovered that Chrysanthemum had gone he did not miss her too much . In these troublous times he knew that he could exchange a sack of flour for a young girl . He liked fat women, but if women's flesh was counted according to weight he could-with two bags of flour-get him a fat one. But when he discovered that Chrysanthemum had taken his treasure, his eyeballs rolled up and he was unconscious for half an hour. To be sure he still had all the possessions in the house, and there was money in the banks about which Chrysanthemum had not known, but these could not console him. Eastern Sun became very ill . Anxiety, cold, and fear attacked him from all sides . His green face-because he was suddenly cold and suddenly hot -was sometimes greyish white and sometimes purple. When he was cold his yellow teeth chattered incessantly. He tried to plan but the cold kept him from concentrating. All he could think of was death. Then suddenly he would be hot all over and his thoughts would become very active, like a swarm of locusts flying wildly and with­ out order. When a thought came he would shout loudly, "I will not die. Give me money. Go to Japan-" The Japanese doctor came again . After taking some medicine Eastern Sun slept fitfully. His sleep was not sound for his mind would not be still. He worried about money and about Chrysanthe­ mum. Because of Eastern Sun's long illness another headmaster was appointed to the School of Railway Administration. If this had happened in other times Rey Shuan would certainly 47 6

have considered whether he should follow the traditional custom to resign, but now he decided not to waste thought and went to his classes as usual. If the new headmaster wanted to keep him he would follow Rey Tang's instructions and teach the students. If the new headmaster did not want him he would think about how to meet the problem when the occasion arose. The new headmaster was a middle-aged man without much vision, whose intentions, however, were not bad . The position of headmaster was one that he had sought, but he did not plan to squeeze or kill the students, nor did he wish to change his fellow workers . Rey Shuan kept his position . To Rey Shuan it was not only a position, but an opportunity to do his duty to the students and to his country. He explained every word to his students-broke open the meaning and rubbed away the accumulation of ages, so they could understand every usage of every word . He used many references outside the textbook. He picked purposely examples of literature that would stimulate their imaginations and their love for their country, ones that would help wash the sense of national humiliation from their minds . He picked the references casually as if only to explain the passages being studied. He thought that in this way, even if there were secret agents among the students, they would not easily find fault with him . The most difficult task was to find subjects for compositions . To follow his educational theories he was unwilling to give them empty and trite subjects that forced the students to have no way but to begin with, "Man in the world," and then chew the ends of their brushes trying to think of what to say next. But he could not give them the big subjects that had to do with current events and the great affairs of the time. If he had dared to write anything closely related to the lives of the students on the blackboard he would at once have been arrested. In order to avoid empty themes and to avoid being arrested he always gave them topics that had to do with understanding the lessons taught. In this way he gave them themes about which they had words, and also he could get the reactions of the students to what he taught them. While correcting these compositions he felt excited. Many stu­ dents showed not only that they understood what he taught them but spoke discreetly of their own secret heart pains . In this way the tedium of correcting compositions changed to pleasure. He was talking in a secret language with a group of young people. He paid special attention to the compositions of the pupils he suspected. He wanted to see if they would consciously or uncon477

sciously show the kind of thought and theory that the Japanese wanted to have planted in the youth of China. What made him most happy was that he discovered one or two pupils from traitors' families who wrote exactly opposite to what their fathers thought. From this discovery he understood the mis­ take he had made . He had been pessimistic. He had thought that Peiping once occupied by the Japanese immediately became a pool of stagnant water. He had been wrong. He decided to .let Little Precious go to school . He had no time to teach the boy himself. He saw clearly that the teachers in the schools were not weak and worthless as he had imagined. At the time when Eastern Sun was suffering from sudden cold and sudden heat, the winter-after having frozen to death many people who had no food and clothes-quietly retreated from Pei­ ping. The new spring wind seemed still not to know how to behave itself. Sometimes it was cold and blew away the snow on the tops of the walls . Sometimes it was warm and brought moisture and spring clouds . The accumulated snow on the old city walls of Peiping began to melt. Moisture began to show between the bricks . At the foot of the walls life seemed especially ready to face danger. There were already small, light green, and tender sprouts of grass . Sometimes the golden tops of the pagodas and the yellow tiles of the Imperial Palace gave out rays of light; sometimes the ice would suddenly form and make the people think again of the frightfulness of winter. At this time people tore off the thick and tattered winter clothes, but when the gusts of cold wind came they would catch cold and die quickly. The borderland between winter and spring killed many people. At last the spring was established and melted all the snow and ice. The brave honey bees began to appear in the air. News that was warmer than the spring breeze suddenly came and made all the people of Peiping forget the hunger and cold of the long winter : the American air force had bombed the Japanese homeland. Rey Shuan learned the news from the pamphlets sent out by Old Three. Having read the pamphlets he did not know how he reached the school . When he entered the classroom Rey Shuan saw many, many eyes shining with a smiling light. Those eyes told him that those young people had all heard the news of the bombing of Japan. The happy light in their eyes seemed to have heat and made the classroom unusually warm. He did not say anything but looked at 47 8

them with the same light in his eyes. The faces of all wore smiles and then tears appeared in many eyes . Rey Shuan began to lecture. He could not help wanting to say between the sentences, "Japan has been bombed," but he con­ trolled himself. The words, however, whirled like music in his heart. He also wanted to say to the students, "My younger brother, my younger brother brought this news to us," but he dared not say it. He began to understand propaganda. Before this, because of his pessimism, he had always thought that propaganda was nothing but the use of empty, useless words without much appeal or value. Now-look-this one piece of news could make him and his stu­ dents and all in Peiping excited and happy. Why not make more propaganda? He decided to help Old Three make propaganda. He knew how to write. He knew that Old Three had ways to get what he wrote printed, and Uncle Chien had ways to get it sent around. He met the monk, Clear Moon, on the street and told him his wish to write for the underground. The monk told him several places to which he could send what he had written, and suggested that he change often, to avoid being caught by the spies. As he left the monk Rey Shuan really saw the light of Peiping's spring. He was elated. He had now put himself in a definite role. He need no longer feel ashamed of himself or hesitate. The hearts of the stored turnips had become pulp, but on their heads fresh green leaves had appeared. There was not much moisture left in the stored cabbages but they had put forth tender yellow shoots . Even the humble garlic had put out shoots of jade green. Everything was decaying and everything was coming to life again.

7"aE JAPANESE

Chapter Eighteen

issued regulations for air raid precautions. Ac­ � cording to the regulations the windows of each house must be covered with black cloth.' There was not a family in the Little Sheep Fold that could afford to buy black cloth . Sergeant Pai and Fourth Master Li were in distress. They dared not ignore the executive order but knew that people who had no clothes to wear could not buy black cloth. As soon as Sergeant Pai saw Fourth Master Li he sighed and said, "I had just said that as soon as people were happy some 479

trouble was sure to come. See-each family must cover its windows with black cloth." "Oh-that means it's time for me to be cursed again ." "Ai-let's hold our complaints . What are we to do? That's more important. Suppose they can't get any black cloth what shall we do?" "Newspapers painted black-newspapers painted black. When the Japanese come to inspect-well-the people's windows are black. Won't that do?" "There is something in what you say, but where can we find paste even. Republic flour will not make paste." "I will make a pail of paste and give it to the people free. In fact, even if I give them the paste free, I will still have to bear their cursing." Sergeant Pai said quickly, "I will not let you take all the insults this time. I will go first and tell the people they must use black cloth . Then you go and tell them they can use newspaper. And then if you give them paste, it would be strange if the people really do not know the difference between good and bad." The old man nodded. "But the matter is not as simple as that." "What else?" the old man shouted . Sergeant Pai smiled . "We must go to tell the people that if there is an air raid, each family must put out its lights and its fires, and all stay in their rooms ." "So they can be killed by the bombs?" Sergeant Pai did not answer the old man's question but con­ tinued to explain the orders. "Each family must provide a person to stand outside the gate, for during the air raid no one is allowed to close his gate. If the family has no one to stand guard they must hire someone. The official rate is three dollars an hour." "What is the meaning of all this?" "It would be strange if I understood. You might say that if the gates are wide open the Japanese could very conveniently go in and arrest anyone they chose." "You're right. This is not for air raid precautions but convenience in arresting people." Sergeant Pai went to the families to tell them about the air raid matters. The neighbors grumbled at Sergeant Pai's notice, but all also realized, "It would look from this as though Japan had really been bombed," and were happy.

Fourth Master Li went first to see Cheng Chang Shun and asked him for old newspapers . Cheng Chang Shun told Fourth Master that he had old news­ papers and also old rags . He asked the old man to take whatever newspapers he needed. "Old Sir, take an armful-better than having them all come here one by one. I am a businessman, it would not do for them to know that I gave these newspapers for nothing. Am I not right?" "Right." Fourth Master nodded. "As for the rags-if there are any who want them-I will sell at the buying price, but I can't give them away." Old Man Li carried away a great pile of newspapers, he made a pail of flour paste, and went to the neighbors. The neighbors were all grateful to him, and even John Ting accepted what the old man brought. Yun Mei-alone of the neighbors-did not accept the old man's paper and paste. She had already thought of using old paper and had pasted up the windows. She had also rubbed up a mess of ink and blackened the paper. It was about ten o'clock at night when the first practice alarm sounded. Most of the people in the Little Sheep Fold had gone to bed. The grown people could not find their clothes or they put on the wrong shoes . The children waking from their dreams cried aloud . Not understanding, hugging, pulling, and carrying their children, they all rushed into the courtyards. They then remembered the instructions Sergeant Pai had given them a few days ago : "During an air raid, put out the lights and sit in your rooms ." Looking at the courtyards, looking at the heavens, they began to understand that even if they wanted to go out there was no place for them to go. The Japanese had prepared no dugouts for them. All they could do was to go back to their rooms . Rey Shuan and Yun Mei put on their clothes and got up, and walked quietly into the courtyard. Rey Shuan went to warn the neighbors in the south house. "Air raid alarm-whether you get up or not makes no difference as far as I can see." Then he went out­ side the window of his grandfather's room and listened. If the old man was asleep he need not disturb him. Yun Mei opened the gate and sat on the threshold. She had decided to sit there until the all clear sounded . She was not willing for Rey Shuan to guard the gate for he would have to go to class the next day, nor was she willing to pay three dollars an hour to hire a man to stand there for her. 48 1

Rey Shuan came out to see how she was getting on and she said to him, "Go to bed." "Let me stand here first and then after a while you can come and change with me. Who knows how many hours there will be in one session." "You go and sleep. I wouldn't be able to sleep anyway." At this moment the Japanese from Number Three came quietly and quickly out of their gate, and walking under the shelter of the walls like a group of thieves they ran toward the main street. "What are they going to do?" Yun Mei asked in a hushed voice. "They must go to the places where they have air raid shelters . Heng!" Rey Shuan stood silent awhile and then went back into the courtyard. In the darkness Yun Mei-from the shadows and sounds of coughing-began gradually to recognize that outside the gate of Fourth Master Li's house was his fat son, outside the gate of the Widow Ma was Cheng Chang Shun, and outside the gate of Number Six was John Ting. Neither she nor they dared to say anything. More than half an hour passed and nothing happened. Old Man Chi finally came out. "After all what's it all about anyway? Noth­ ing's happened, you had better come in." "You'd better go to bed, Grandfather. I must stay here to watch . The Japanese may come to inspect." Yun Mei managed to per­ suade the old man to go back to bed. Yun Mei had guessed right. The gendarmes and police of the whole city had been mobilized to inspect every house. This was a practice but the Japanese wanted to make it as vivid as a real raid. Even if they worked the whole night through they must have the people of Peiping thoroughly trained, so that they would all put out their fires, and their lights, and stay in their rooms, in order that the Japanese could go without delay to the safe places, and also so the Japanese families would not be in danger of robbery. They came. Yun Mei saw the shadows of four men coming from the west and quickly stood up. The two tall ones she guessed to be Fourth Master Li and Sergeant Pai. The two short ones were Japanese. They passed by Number One and Number Three and came straight towards Yun Mei. She said not a word but stood aside. Neither did Fourth Master Li nor Sergeant Pai say anything but followed the Japanese into the courtyard. There was no light and no fire. The Japanese, using their flash­ lights, looked at each window and it was black. They came out. 4 82

There was nothing wrong in Number Six. When they reached the mixed court of Number Seven, however, both Fourth Master Li and Sergeant Pai sweated in anticipation. It was not so bad. There was no fire or light anywhere-the people of Number Seven had no oil or coal. But when the flashlights of the gendarmes were on the windows Sergeant Pai sweated all over. There were at least three families who had not pasted black paper on their windows . Fourth Master Li could not help swearing, "His mother's --! I even gave you the paste, why-" Sergeant Pai saw how serious the affair was. He would very likely be discharged because of this . Quickly and angrily he ques­ tioned the people, "Why did you not paper your windows? Why? Didn't Fourth Master Li and I tell you about it again an"d again?" His words were said to the people of Number Seven but the greater half was for the Japanese to hear, to clear himself and Fourth Master Li from responsibility. "I'm really sorry," a woman who was standing apart said in a miserable voice, "the children ate the paste. Sergeant Pai, say a few good words for us . All the year round the children do not see white flour." Sergeant Pai had nothing to say. The Japanese gendarme knew very little Chinese and did not understand what the woman said. Without distinguishing black, red, or white, he slapped Fourth Master Li's face twice. Fourth Master Li was stunned. Although his life took him on the streets and among all manner of people, never had he wished to use force; on the contrary, when he saw others fighting, no mat­ ter whether they were holding swords or sticks, he would take the risk to try and separate them. Anger suddenly filled his whole body. He forgot his love of peace and his discretion and knew only that before his eyes were two beasts who dared to strike a white-bearded old man . Coldly, without warning, he raised his hand and struck the face of the Japanese. He felt happy and satisfied. He had not said a word but he had put the whole of his strength in his hand. The boots of the gendarmes kicked viciously at the old man's legs. The old man fell. . Sergeant Pai dared not go forward to separate them. He wanted to save his old friend but he feared to provoke those two mad and wild beasts . None of the people in the courtyard made a move. 483

The old man seized the leg of one of the gendarmes and threw him. The two men rolled together around the courtyard. The other gendarme followed the two rolling on the ground and went forward and backward waiting for his opportunity, and then he kicked the old man in his temple. The old man did not move again. The two gendarmes stopped kicking and striking and told Ser­ geant Pai to put in prison all the families who had not pasted up their windows . The gendarmes and Sergeant Pai went away, and the people of the courtyard like a swarm of bees surrounded Fourth Master Li. The old man-from the time when he had become Head of the Li-had been reviled by them countless times and now because of them he was lying on the ground. Forced by their poverty they had cursed when there was no cause, but now they all wept. The people carried Fourth Master Li home and he was uncon­ scious for more than two hours. Fourth Mistress wept long and loudly even though the all clear had not yet sounded . She did not care whether it was "all clear" or not "all clear"; she built a fire to boil water for the old man to drink. All in the Little Sheep Fold forgot the air raid alarm, this one coming in and that one going out to see Fourth Master Li. At about two o'clock in the morning the all clear sounded. Old Man Chi had not been able to sleep. Once in a while he would come out to see Yun Mei, and then he would go to his room and lie down. Yun Mei, with an old wadded coat around her, leaned against the side of the gate, or sat half-sleeping on the steps. She wanted very much to go to see Fourth Master Li but she dared not leave her post. It did not matter whether it was a real air raid or not she must do her duty. She must not let there be trouble for the family. A few minutes before the all clear the Japanese of Number Three all clattered home and Yun Mei knew that the business must soon be over. The all clear sounded and Yun Mei ran to the Li home. Old Man Chi followed her. Fourth Master Li opened his eyes and looked at them and then shut them again. They did not dare to say anything to him. Old Man Chi seeing his friend of many years lying half dead wanted to weep loudly. "Grandfather, shall we go?" Yun Mei quietly asked her grand­ father. Old Man Chi nodded and slowly they went away. 4 84

Fourth Master Li was unconscious most of the time for the next three days . Then he opened his eyes and looked at his wife and his family; then slowly he shut his eyes and never again opened them. Fourth Mistress Li had nothing to offer those who came to con­ sole her yet the period of preparation and the funeral were carried out according to tradition. People who owed nothing to the Li family knew that Fourth Master had been a good man for a whole long lifetime, so they came also to kowtow the three times for him. Those who were indebted to him came weeping to pour the liba­ tions of wine before him. And those who were indebetd to him and had yet reviled him, all came to pay him homage, to pour out their sufferings and shame, confessing their injustices . Old Man Chi wept heartbrokenly. He and Fourth Master Li were the pair of old men in the Little Sheep Fold. In age, experi­ ence, and temperament they were more or less alike; and although they were not related they were like twins in their history. With Fourth Master Li's death there was no one in the whole street or even the whole world who would un�erstand Old Man Chi's "old grain and rotting sesame." They had been mutual witnesses of each other's history. Fourth Master Li's funeral was handsome and well attended . Those who moved household goods, those in the coffin shops, and even the musicians and banner carriers were all his friends. They put on mourning and came to give their old friend a good send-off and went with him all the way out of the city. They had no way to avenge his death but could only use ritual, music, the procession, and friendship, and take him to his grave where he could sleep in peace. They hoped that his bones would not be dug up by the Japanese as they had dug up countless graves when they had built the airfield and the public highways.

Chapter Nineteen 17' URING THE SUMMER the sunrise flag was flown in many places /,../ in the Pacific and in the South Seas . Many green islands with their sugar-cane fields and their rubber trees knelt to the descendants of the Heavenly Goddess, but the short-legged soldiers were not much seen in Peiping. They came and went always in the night. They no longer dared march in the sunlight because their uniforms were patched and their shoes were broken. The Imperial Army had turned into a horde of ragamuffins . 48 5

Although the Imperial Army marched in the night to cover its shabbiness the Japanese people living in Peiping .still showed their ugly manners. In the markets, in the residential streets, those Japanese women who walked with their heads bent and wore gaeta began to snatch goods. They would go in groups of three or five to the market and surround a vegetable or fruit stand. One would take a cabbage and another would take cucumbers and put them in their baskets. The others would not be idle but would stuff eggplant or squash into their sleeves. Snatching in this way they would chatter like beautiful porcelain dolls and smilingly separate and go away. The grain they received, although it was better and more than that given to the Chinese, was still not enough . The victorious and the defeated had both become poor devils . The simplest way was to snatch food . The Chinese police did not interfere, the gendarmes would not question them, and the peddlers dared not stop them. Their vanguard were the ronins from Korea-slaves with higher qualifications. They not only robbed and snatched but also de­ stroyed goods . They would eat a melon or two without paying and then smash a few more. With such a vanguard before them the Japanese women could feel that their manners were not so low­ they robbed only and did not destroy. Ever since the summer began, the people of the Little Sheep Fold had to do without peddlers of vegetables and fruit. The peddlers were afraid of the Japanese women in house Number Three who would snatch and rob. So the Chinese women, like Yun Mei, lost the convenience of buying onion or spinach outside their own gates . If they wanted · but a clove of garlic they had to run to the main street, and besides -after being robbed by the Koreans or the Japanese women-the peddlers would . make up their losses from the Chinese. They raised their prices. It seemed to Yun Mei that she had to pay a snatch tax. From the time of Fourth Master Li's death, Sergeant Pai had become more and more melancholy. He could make excuses for himself, but no matter how he thought he could not feel that he had dealt rightly with Fourth Master Li. It was h e who had per­ . s uaded the old man to become Head of the Li. It was he, when the Japanese gendarmes were striking the old man, who had not tried to stop them. He had to go to the Little Sheep Fold on patrol but he was afraid of meeting Fourth Mistress Li and her son . If he met them he would hang his head and lower his eyelids. He was no longer a handsome police sergeant; he was a petty thief who had stolen his life in shame and misery and ignominy. 4 86

He gave instructions to his men not to interfere with the stealing of the Koreans and the Japanese women . "If we report or interfere with them those arrogant Things will say to put the peddlers in prison. To shut our eyes, brothers, is the best way to manage. All Peiping has been taken by them. What standards can be used to judge right from wrong?" For Head of the Little Sheep Fold Li he had thought of Chi Rey Shuan or Cheng Chang Shun, but he knew that they were both too peaceable and would not know how to deal with the neighbors. John Ting had seen the vacancy as soon as Fourth Master Li had died. He now had time, for he had not looked for work after coming out of the English Palace. Having worked in the English Palace he was not willing to work in the foreign food restaurants. Even if he had been willing to lower his standards, it was not certain that he would have been able to find work because most of the foreign food restaurants-because of the anti-American and anti-English attitude of the Japanese-had closed. Sergeant Pai did not like John Ting's foreign ways, but since he could not find a suitable man he thought it best to nod his head. Having made arrangements for Head of the Li, Sergeant Pai was still without peace day or night. Stuck in his mind like a fish bone in a throat was his age. Although he shaved meticulously every day with an old razor and cared for his old uniform and kept the old leather shoes clean and neat, although he forced himself to push out his chest when he walked, he knew that these could not disguise his aging appear­ ance. He did not want to be a running dog for the Japanese, but he was also afraid that the Japanese would dismiss him. When he was patrolling, he was always fearful that he would suddenly meet a Japanese who would say to him, "Roll away! Who wants such an old Thing as you to be a sergeant of police?" What .troubled him even more was that after the Japanese women had taken to snatching goods, the Chinese had also learned the art. He had already told his men not to interfere with the Japanese and the Koreans. How could he tell them they must interfere with the Chinese when in fact the Chinese were able to secure less than the Japanese? If he did not dare to interfere with the Japanese then he should not interfere with the Chinese. He hung his head and said to his men, "It would be better not to interfere with them either. There is not much fat on our stom­ achs. Who does not know the feeling of hunger? If we arrest them the Japanese will not praise us for doing our duty. The prisons are 487

full already and there is no grain. Well-I will say it again, 'Open one eye and close the other.' When both of our eyes are closed and never open again perhaps the world will have peace." The scarcity of food had really made the people of the master race show their foxtails; and hunger had made the slaves forget the sense of shame. Peiping's hungry people cared only for some­ thing to put in their mouths. They no longer cared what was seemly. To snatch and to rob became common practice. In the Peiping shops selling meat, both cooked and raw, the block on which the cooked meat and sausages were cut was almost as high as a man was tall. This was because the shopkeepers were afraid that the customers would pick the meat up from the block and have their fingers chopped off. But now these high blocks­ like half a large tree-could no longer stop people's hands. In the meat shops where they sold fresh raw meat they had in the past cut the raw meat on a flat board, because no matter how greedy a person he would not pick up raw meat or fat and put it into his mouth. Now, however, there were those who made a practice of snatching raw meat. The meat shops had not had much business from the time the Japanese controlled all foodstuffs. For three days or perhaps five they would not have any meat to sell and then, of course, they had no business . When, occasionally, they had some meat to sell they would cut the meat in the night, and, whether it was cooked or raw, chop it into little pieces and wrap it in paper or lotus leaves and hide it in the cupboard. Those who came to buy had first to hand over the money and then be given a small parcel of meat. This practice of money first and goods later blew like a gust of wind over the whole of Peiping. If one did not first show money he could not buy anything at all. Those who sold shaoping and chiaotse and the peddlers of other foodstuffs all covered their baskets with wire nets and also locked the covers on them. Those who wanted to buy had first to hand over the money and then the peddlers would unlock their baskets and hand over the goods . When they handed over the goods they would make it clear to the customers that once the goods were in the hands of the customers the peddlers were no longer respon­ sible. This was because there were often people waiting beside the stands or the peddlers' poles and baskets to snatch the food as it passed from one hand to another. Yun Mei had been robbed twice and so did not dare to let Little Precious go to buy things for her. Although the things she had lost had not been worth much she had been frightened. 4 88

Mrs. Tien Yiu hesitatingly suggested, "Why not take Little Precious with you? Four eyes can do more business than two." Yun Mei felt that to have Little Precious with her-whether he would be useful or not-would add to her courage, but he had to go to school. "Ai," Old Man Chi sighed, "it doesn't matter whether he goes to school or not at a time like this !" Little Precious was proud of himself when he heard of this assignment, and at once suggested that he should carry a stick. "If anyone grabs your sack, Mother, I will strike him with my stick." "You calm down," Yun Mei said between smiles and tears. "Open your eyes a little wider. That is what we will need . Watch all the time and shout if you see anyone following us ." "For the police?" Little Precious interrupted. "Heng-if the police took any notice it would be strange!" "Then what shall I shout for?" Little Precious wanted to have everything clear so he could carry out the responsibility for pro­ tecting his mother. "Whatever you want to shout-just shout," the grandmother explained . Old Man Chi-in order to show that even though he was old and weak he still had wisdom-began to look for some cord and pieces of cloth. When he had found them he said to Yun Mei, "Tie these on the basket. When you have bought everything tie up the strings as is done on the traveling baskets . Won't that make it safer?" "What you have thought of, Grandfather, is really wise," Yun Mei said. She did not say, "What if they snatch the basket also?" Rey Shuan, of course, wanted to help. On his way back from school he would buy things to save Yun Mei from having to run countless times to the shops, and so reduced the chances for being robbed. One day as he was going home from school he remembered that Yun Mei had asked him to bring back something but he could not remember what it was. After walking awhile he saw a peddler selling shaoping and friedcakes. Before the war the shaoping peddlers were as common as sparrows, but now seeing one seemed most strange. The wire netting on the basket was also strange and new. He decided to buy two shaoping and two friedcakes to lessen the guilt of having forgotten Yun Mei's request and also to please Little Niu Niu . She still wept at the sight of Republic flour. 4 89

As he walked along carrying the shaoping, and friedcakes he thought of Mr. Goodrich . Did not Mr. Goodrich constantly give Niu Niu cakes or bread? He was anxious to see his old friend, although he knew that even if he could find out where the old man was he would not dare go see him. He knew that the Japanese especially hated the Chinese who had anything to do with West­ erners . As he was thinking these thoughts suddenly a hand appeared at his side, a very dirty a nd very thin hand. Before he could under­ stand what was happening the shaoping and the friedcakes were gone. He stopped and turned around. The one who had snatched the shaoping was a very thin and very weak man, running with all he had in him and yet not running fast. He spat several times on the shaoping and friedcakes, so that even if he were caught he would not need to return the food. Rey Shuan caught up with him. The thin man, like an old hen cornered, stood still with his face against the wall. Rey Shuan was sorry he had run after him when he saw this was a man who had a sense of shame . . "Friend, take them and eat. I don't want them." Rey Shuan said th is gently, hoping the thin man would turn around. The thin man hid his face even more closely to the wall. Rey Shuan wanted to say, "War has broken our souls, and taken away the skin from our faces. This is not your fault alone." But he was unable to say it. He felt that these were empty words . There was no reason or word that could satisfy hunger. He said, "Friend, eat." The thin man seemed to be moved and slowly turned around. Rey Shuan understood. This was Scholar. Yeh, the brother-in-law of the poet, Mr. Chien. Forgetting everything he managed to say, "Mr. Yeh." Scholar Yeh bent his head, leaned back against the wall, and stood without expression. His hair, which had not been cut for several months, was long and disordered and curled on his head. His face was so thin it was like the edge of a knife and it had been many days since he had washed it. There were no tears in his eyes nor was there any expression as they stared at the friedcakes in his hands. Rey Shuan took hold of Scholar Yeh's arm. Scholar Yeh wanted to free his arm but had not the strength. Stumbling he went along with Rey Shuan . He could only say, "Where are we going?" "We will find a place to sit down," Rey Shuan said . 490

They came to a little restaurant. As they went in a waiter stopped them. 'Tm sorry, we did not get anything today so we have not lighted the fires . There is no business." A restaurant without a fire, without the clatter of dishes, is uglier than anything else. The tables and benches were set in an orderly manner and in the air there still was the smell of fats and of cooking that had accumulated over many years . . "Can we just sit awhile?" Rey Shuan asked in a courteous man­ ner. "This gentleman is a little unwell." He pointed to Scholar Yeh . "Why not, the benches are empty," the waiter smiled and said. "You see, sir, how can we do business? There is nothing to sell and yet we have to keep our doors open. It is a jest." The two sat down . Scholar Yeh's thin face had become thinner and seemed longer. His eyeballs were like the eyes of a dead fish . He no longer fidgeted but sat stupidly and without motion . Scholar Yeh sighed. "There is nothing to say-I am just short of death." As he spoke the muscles of his face moved hardly at all. He was stating a fact and there was no need of any expression to help him. "I have ruined everything," Scholar Yeh said quietly. "To sup­ port my sick wife and my children I worked for the Japanese, and used opium to numb myself. Well-I sold my soul that my wife and children should not starve. To sell a soul and save the lives of a whole family is not a bad bargain." He stopped and stared dully at the table. Rey Shuan dared not urge him to speak but only coughed. Scholar Yeh seemed to be wakened by the cough and went on, "My wife-it was strange-with food to eat was weaker than ever, as though the food I gave her were poisonous . She died." There was still no expression on his face and he seemed to be reciting a story he had heard many times. "Those who are dead are the fortunate ones. I thought that when my sons and daughters were grown and could earn money they would suppot me. As soon as my eldest son began to earn money, without saying a word he left Peiping. He not only did not show his gratitude but he seemed to hate me, to hate me for selling my soul . Like my eldest son, my other three boys also. I sold my soul to bring them up and what did I get from them? Emptiness and heartlessness ." He moistened his thin lips. "There are so many funny things to laugh about. I have just told you that it was because of my opium habit th.a t the Japanese treated me well. When my habit became so strong that I was too 49 1

lazy to move, they dismissed me. I lost my income and had left only a few children who could not earn money and who will prob­ ably run away from me when they can earn money. I cannot care for them any longer and even if I did care for them they would not be grateful to me. If I don't care for them they will starve, but I have no way to manage. I still smoke opium, and the opium intoxicates me-that is opium's greatest virtue. What is there to be ashamed of? I am a man whose own children do not recognize him as their father. Today I robbed you but I need not apologize. I know that you will forgive one about to die." "You cannot die like this." Rey Shuan wanted to help him. "No one should die like this but I must die this way. Tomorrow, perhaps, I will lie on the street and be taken away in the big truck and thrown outside the city. I have no hope of being buried in the ancestral graveyard. I could not face my ancestors ." He stood up shaking and started to go away. When they were outside the restaurant Scholar Yeh sat on the steps and began to eat the shaoping.

ANG W pieces

Chapter Twenty

had become prosperous. He now owned three of property-three compounds. Although his appear­ ance, his dress, and his manner had not changed, his heart was different from what it had been . He was no longer one of those who grasped for food on the side of the street. He was now a member of the small gentry and had some dignity. Although he still sat in the tea shops every day small contracts were of no interest to him . When he was with those of his own walk of life, he would sit apart with his back straight as if to say, "For little affairs don't bother me. For the sake of three grains of sesame and two dates, Wang the Third will not trouble to move his legs." His manner toward those who wanted to sell or buy houses was also different from what it had been . As soon as he saw a customer he would say, "I also have property," and he would have liked to add, "Don't think I am an ordinary go-between who will come when you beckon and go when you wave your hand. Heng-I have my dignity!" He had not forgotten that the Japanese had ruined the family of his relatives, the Chiens, yet he could not overlook the fact that from the time the Japanese had come to Peiping he had had more business, so much more that he now owned property himself. For 49 2 THE THIRD

the sake of Mr. Chien he should hate the Japanese, but for his own sake he should be grateful to them. Since these conflicting points of view could not be resolved they could only be kept in balance. Gradually this balance could no longer be maintained. A balance is the beginning of slipping to one side or the other. Because he wanted to protect his property forever, he could not help believing what the Japanese said in their propaganda, that the Japanese were not there to fight the Chinese but to help the Chinese be rid of the communists. Wang the Third thought inside his square head that if the Japanese should really destroy the com­ munists it would be equal to protecting his three houses. He thought constantly of his in-law, Mr. Chien . Whether he was walking on the streets or sitting in the tea shops his eyes were always on the watch, hoping to see the man he so much admired. Whenever he saw one that looked like his relative he would rush over hoping that he had not seen wrong, and when he saw that it was not Mr. Chien he would rub his eyes and scold himself for an old man whose eyesight was no longer sure. He loved his grandson so much that he almost spoiled him . While Mr. Chien was suffering the greatest hardships the grandson was smothered with love and indulgence. Wang the Third himself ate Republic flour and drank poor tea, but he used all means to get better food and drink for the child . If the child had a bit of headache or a little fever he would invite the best doctor in Peiping. To make the child happy and comfortable was practically his religion. When young Mrs . Chien wanted to punish the child, Wang the Third would hold him in his arms and say with his attitude, "You are fortunate to have a child like this and yet you want to punish him ! If you did not have him what would you be?" As soon as the child learned to walk Wang the Third believed that he should see the world. With the child on his shoulder or on his neck, with his chest stuck out and taking long strides, he would go and see the sigh ts on the streets, visit the temple fairs and the market places . No matter whether it was good to eat or not, whether it was suitable for the child to play with or not, if only the child said, "Ah, ah," Wang the Third would quickly take out the money and buy it for him. When, however, the child could say many things Wang the Third was in trouble. The child learned from his mother to say, "Down with the Japanese," and "Avenge my father," and also he would stick out his little chest and say, "My surname is Chien." 493

Wang the Third could not take around with him a grandson who shouted at all times, "Down with the Japanese," nor could he quarrel with his daughter; the neighbors might hear and tell the Japanese. He did not fear arrest. His body was strong enough to take a few blows, but suppose the Japanese should confiscate his property. Inside his square head Wang the Third decided he must find a way to be closer to the Japanese. This did not mean that he wanted to become a collaborator or a running dog. No, he was not that low; he wanted only to come not too far and not too near­ in order to make himself secure. He joined the Society of the Three Purities. The Society of the Three Purities was an organization for gathering talented people and people of some ability like Wang the Third who were not very clear in their thinking. The Japanese soon classified him as a "use­ ful man," and wanted to make friends with him. After they had made Wang the Third believe they were well­ in ten tioned people, the Japanese suddenly mentioned the poet, Mr. Chien, to him. Wang the Third was stunned. The words of the Japanese were put together from the grains of sesame he had scattered. The Japanese immediately guaranteed him that they would not hurt Mr. Chien . On the contrary, they admired Mr. Chien' s learning, his character and courage, just as much as Wang the Third admired his relative. They wanted to find him, and for­ give him, and become his friend. Wang the Third must help them. They also hinted to him that if he were unwilling to help them-heng!-his three houses and his grandchild would no longer be safe. He had been a smart man all his life but now Wang the Third had fallen into a trap. His always red and bright nose became purple. He became angry. He would not help the Japanese to catch Mr. Chien even if they said they would not hurt him. Thinking and thinking Wang the Third thought of a plan. He would go to find Mr. Chien and ask him for a plan. But where would he go to find Mr. Chien? He remembered Scholar Yeh. It had been a long time since he had seen that thin fellow, who had also been concerned with Mr. Chien. But he drew a blank. The neighbors of Scholar Yeh told him that the whole family had disappeared. Wang the Third thought of Rey Shuan. The ears of the whole Chi family stood up. They all wanted to know how the young Mrs. Chien and her child were faring. 494

But Wang the Third could not take time to talk about his daughter and his grandson. He asked immediately for Mr. Chien's whereabouts. At first Rey Shuan thought it must be anxiety for Mr. Chien that made Wang the Third so anxious to know where he was, but after a while he saw that something was wrong and began to question Wang the Third. Wang the Third was so impatient he constantly knocked the bowl of his pipe, but determined not to tell the truth. Rey Shuan also decided to be cautious and not to give any information. Finally, depressed and disappointed, Wang the Third went away. Rey Shuan felt uneasy. He did not know why Wang the Third wanted to find Mr. Chien but he began to see danger. He wanted to go at once and warn Mr. Chien, but on second thought he felt that he was letting himself be greatly frightened by a small matter. How could he go and frighten Mr. Chien when there was no wind or breakers three feet high. Wang the Third and Mr. Chien were, after all, fathers of a son and a daughter who had married . He decided to wait, to wait until he gave the manuscripts to the monk, Clear Moon, and first discuss the matter with him . But Wang the Third, seeing that Rey Shuan's mouth was so close, also suspected Rey Shuan . He thought that Rey Shuan knew where Mr. Chien was but purposely refused to tell him. He decided to shadow Rey Shuan. He discovered that Rey Shuan met Clear Moon in a little shop, and then Wang the Third followed the monk, Clear Moon, and discovered the little temple. Wang the Third did not dare enter the little temple. Suppose Mr. Chien were really there and he went in to persuade him to surrender, and then suppose Mr. Chien would not listen to his per­ suasions but should move and hide somewhere elseOn the other hand could he-because Mr. Chien refused to listen to him-heartlessly inform the Japanese to come and arrest him? When he had gone to see Rey Shuan he had seen the houses Number One and Number Three in the Little Sheep Fold, and had remembered how, years ago, he had carried Mr. Chien on his back to see Morning Lotus . Now was he himself to become a Morning Lotus? The people of the Kuan family were a pack of dogs; Wang the Third was a good Son of Han. But if his Chien in-law were really in the temple and he did not inform the Japanese would J;ie not have the guilt of protecting his relative, and he and all his property would be involved. 49 5

His conscience and the evil in his mind were locked in struggle; neither would give a step. War was the criminal that was forcing his conscience to think only of his own security, and to sell his relative. He frequently stood in the neighborhood of the little temple but dared not go in. He wanted to see the relative and friend he most admired, but he was also afraid that if he went in and saw Mr. Chien he would be scolded . . While he hesitated outside the little temple others shadowed him. He dared not go inside the temple but those others secretly went in. And Mr. Chien was arrested.

Chapter Twenty-one

!TALNavy retreated fromandpoint in the Pacific the Imperial Japanese to point. The Japanese in Peiping Y

SURRENDERED

were each ordered to make ten Chinese friends. The Japanese in house Number Three of the Little Sheep Fold, like the other Japanese of Peiping, began to come out to make "friends." In the past they and their Chinese neighbors had had no social intercourse, but now even the expressions on their faces must be changed according to order. Fourth Mistress Li was the first to reject their friendship. She , loved everybody but she could not love the people who had kicked her old mate to death . Although she knew that those who had kicked her old mate to death were not the people from Number Three, still Japanese were after all Japanese-and she was not willing to distinguish too clearly between them. The old widow's mouth was not at all what a widow's should be. She used all the vile words she knew. The Japanese did not know the dictionary in which her words could be found and could only listen with smiles . They thought she was speaking nicely to them. They had come to make friends with her-how could she be reviling them? Cheng Chang Shun almost quarreled with his grandmother. Old Widow Ma, holding to her philosophy of amiability, wanted to receive the Japanese and not offend them. She knew they were to be feared and hated, but since they had come to her she felt that at least she should give them a cup of tea and should not absolutely drive them away.

Chang Shun decided to lock the gate from the inside. He could not receive "friends" of that kind. In the Little Sheep Fold everyone felt that this business of killing people and then making friends was a jest, and a hateful one. Without consultation and as one man, they paid no attention to the Japanese. John Ting was the only exception. In the past when he had been working in the English Palace, John Ting had despised the Japanese more than anyone. Now he had had no work for a long time and his hope of going back to the English Palace faded more and more. He had to have a foreign master for his heart to be at peace. He had become accustomed to being a slave to the foreigners . After he became Head of the Li he had been able to play some tricks and had obtained some coal. This coal made it possible for him to have some income every day. He had built a small stove in his courtyard and begun to sell fire. The neighbors who had no coal to make a fire could come to him and boil their tea water or cook their food . He watched the big clock and charged according to the time. The Japanese in Number Three could not understand why the Chinese were so unfeeling and unreasonable as not to be friendly with them. Only when John Ting repaid their call did they begin to feel happy. They had feared that if they did not make a single friend they would be punished. They were thinking of going to house Number One to ask the old lady there how she had become so friendly with all the neighbors, and if the old lady would not tell them they would threaten her, and perhaps make up accusa­ tions and secretly harm her. Fortunately John Ting, Head of the Little Sheep Fold Li, was willing to make friends with them . They must hold him tightly in the way they invaded others' countries­ first to hold one place and then gradually move forward like silk worms eating mulberry leaves. John Ting, like other foreign slaves, wanted there to be still more foreign slaves so that he could be their prophet and leader. He boasted to the Japanese in house Number Three, "I am Head of the Li, I can give orders for them all to be your friends." When he came out of house Number Three, John Ting's back was straight again, and he had almost the air he had had when in the English Palace. He went to find Sergeant Pai. He practically ordered Sergeant Pai to help him notify the neighbors that they must show good feeling toward the Japanese. 497

Sergeant Pai was a practical man, but practical according to reason and according to the right emotions. He never lost his head and he was able to take advantage of an opportunity, but he would not because of this lose his love for his country and for his own people. He did not agree with J ohn Ting. "J ust one word is enough," he said to J ohn Ting. "If the J apa­ nese want to make friends with us, is it not the same as the weasel taking New Year's Greetings to the chickens?" J ohn Ting was annoyed. He was the child of the national humili­ ation of the last hundred years. The air he breathed was that of the national shame. His highest ideal was to beg the foreigners to lift their honorable hands and not to strike him, but to let him lead his life as a foreign slave. According to what he thought, England could be defeated by J apan but Japan could never be defeated by the Chinese. Even if J apan should unfortunately be defeated, would not England and America become strong again and again be his masters? Never could the Chinese alone get their backs straight and walk shoulder to shoulder together as brothers with the English and the Americans. He did not want to talk any more with Sergeant Pai. J ohn Ting went to see Rey Shuan. Rey Shuan had eaten the food of the English Palace-he would certainly understand. If this had happened some time before Rey Shuan would have smiled a little and said something slightly ironic to send J ohn Ting away. Now, however, he decided to tell J ohn Ting in detail what he knew about the world situation, whether J ohn Ting under­ stood or not, or whether he wanted to hear or not. Rey Shuan must take every opportunity to do his duty in spreading his propa­ ganda. After a long speech he said to J ohn Ting, "Sergeant Pai and the neighbors are right. It is your thinking that is wrong." J ohn Ting chewed the cud of Rey Shuan's words and began to see some light. "Oh, I understand now. You are saying that America and England will certainly be victorious and that you and I will go back again to work in the English Palace. That will be wonder­ ful, be wonderful." Rey Shuan wanted to spit in J ohn Ting's face but he controlled himself. "You are still wrong. We should not be dependent on anyone. We should be our own masters." J ohn Ting said no more but very politely took his leave. He could not understand what Rey Shuan meant. He went again to see the people in house Number Three and told them that Sergeant Pai was unwilling to co-operate. He had no desire to harm Sergeant Pai behind his back but he must make 49 8

the Japanese understand how ardently he had tried to get friends for them. If the Japanese should, unfortunately, hate Sergeant Pai that could not be helped. The Japanese immediately hated Sergeant Pai. Their hatred came more quickly than friendly love. They would not tell the high Japanese officials about this small matter but wrote a letter to Sergeant Pai's superiors, who were also Chinese, and accused him of neglecting his duty. Sergeant Pai's superiors were afraid of losing their jobs and starving to death . For the sake of their own rice bowls they dared not protect Sergeant Pai. They dismissed him. Sergeant Pai's best years had passed. He had experience, ideas, and the affection of the people, but he had no savings and no prospects. All his life he had used all he had. Heng! If he had had only cunning and deceit and had had no kindness of heart, perhaps in these years of tumult and disturbance he might not have been discharged. Well, since a good heart and good conduct could not save him, why not take up his hands and kill and burn? The Japanese were those who killed and set fires and they had become the masters of Peiping. He decided to kill John Ting. Who cared whether it was good or bad to kill? The greatest revelation of the war was to show people who had never killed before how to kill. On second thought-if one was to kill, why not kill a Japanese? He did not tell his family that he had been discharged, but stuck the kitchen chopper inside his coat, and went out. He went toward the Little Sheep Fold. There were Japanese on every street, but without thinking and from habit, he walked toward the Little Sheep Fold. He was used to the place, and most likely, those who had informed on him were from house Number Three. Well-they would do for a start to try out his kitchen chopper. His long face was deadly pale; beads of sweat stood out on his forehead; his back was very straight; his eyes looked straight ahead but he saw nothing. He was no longer Sergeant Pai; he was only a spirit of death, white and bright as the edge of a sword about five or six feet high . He had lost his past and his future; he had lost his cunning and his good heart. He had lost everything, and thought only of burying his chopper in flesh and then to pass it across his own throat. When he saw the spirit screen of house Number Three he stood still. It was as though he had suddenly awakened. He had been about to do a thing that was entirely contrary to the ideals of his whole life. He stood in a daze. 499

Rey Shuan came out of his gate. A large portion of Sergeant Pai's will to kill evaporated when he saw Rey Shuan. His shoulders sagged and his hands and feet began to tremble. "What's the matter, Serge.a nt Pai?" Rey Shuan asked. Sergeant Pai's hands went to the place where the chopper was hidden as if he were afraid that Rey Shuan would search him. Rey Shuan saw that something was wrong. Taking Sergeant Pai's arm he said, "Come and sit with me awhile in my house." Without knowing what to do Sergeant Pai went with Rey Shuan, but when he had crossed the threshold he seemed to forget the killing of people and returned to his original courteous ways . "Mr. Chi, 1-1 will not go in." He really did not want to go in and talk with Rey Shuan. He felt that to kill was shameful, even to kill a Japanese who had made him lose his job. Rey Shuan saw that Sergeant Pai must be in trouble. "If you don't want to come in, suppose we talk here." He closed the gate of the compound. Sergeant Pai not only regretted that he had wanted to kill, he also regretted that he had not had the courage to kill. All he could do was to tell what was in his heart, and let Rey Shuan be the judge. Very quickly, and without leaving out any details, he told Rey Shuan everything. When he had heard the story Rey Shuan said nothing for a long time. Sergeant Pai's story and his psychology were the same as Rey Shuan's and that of many, many Peiping people. The people were all unwilling to be conquered by the Japanese, all wanted to fight, yet the peacefulness and lawabidingness assimilated over many thousand years made them wish to do things but unable to do them. Rey Shuan understood what was in Sergeant Pai's mind so he wanted to encourage him not to kill the Japanese, but to join the group and do underground work. But could he tell Sergeant Pai about Mr. Chien and Old Three? He must be careful and first tell about himself without mentioning Mr. Chien and Old Three. Rey Shuan spoke with hesitation and Sergeant Pai listened care­ fully. After a while Sergeant Pai interrupted, "Mr. Chi, what you have to say-say out. I am not one to be a running dog and sell my friends. I am already a man without a way to live. I am one who has already thought of killing the Japanese and then myself. I could not-for a few dollars-sell my friends. If you want me to swear, I will swear." Rey Shuan was satisfied and began to tell the truth. "Sergeant 500

Pai, the two of us should certainly be able to do more than Mr. Chien. If Mr. Chien can do so much, could not the two of us accomplish something? Shall we not co-operate? I know that you have no income and no way to live, but what I can share with you I will certainly share with you-that goes without saying. Old Three also will perhaps be able to think of something for you. If we work together today, and tomorrow unfortunately we are arrested, will we not have earned good names for ourselves, for after our death?" "Tell me what shall I do first?" Sergeant Pai asked without the slightest hesitation. "It has been quite a few days since I lost contact with Old Three and Mr. Chien. I dare not go to the little temple. I suspect Wang the Third. He came suddenly to see me the other day. If Mr. Chien has been arrested again, the Japanese would certainly keep the monk, Clear Moon, in the temple as a decoy to catch Old Three and others . So I dare not go to the temple. Would you dare to go?" "Look," Sergeant Pai smiled sadly and took the chopper out from under his coat. "I had prepared to die. Of what should I be afraid?" "There will be no need for a chopper." Rey Shuan also smiled. "I think it is most suitable for you to go to the temple. You have eyes, and with a glance will be able to see the situation, and to know whether you should go in or not. The monk, Clear Moon, does not know you, and that is another advantage. If you do not know each other there can be no expression which would inadver­ tently let out information. When you get there you will decide whether to go in or not. If you go in-ten thousand-you must not talk with the monk. You must pose as a man seeking to know the future from the gods, and you must act truly. You must pray, saying that you have lost your job, and when you have shaken out the fortune stick, and go to the rack for your fortune sheet, you must take the bottom one of the pile. The news we want will be on that. If you can but get that sheet of paper I will know why I have lost touch with Old Three. But you-ten thousand-must not bring that paper to me directly. I will meet you at the fair in the White Dagoba Temple. We must look for places where there are crowds -places where they have shows of magic, or the stands for selling secondhand clothing. We will meet in some place like that." "These are things that I can do." Sergeant Pai began to look cheerful. "I know. And you must, besides, have some business even if it is only to sell peanuts so that John Ting will not suspect you. You should go to see him often, and talk nonsense to him, and praise 501

his Christian virtues. In short you must humor him and not let him-out of suspicion-inform again on you ." "All right, Mr. Chi. I have come to life again, and if I live only two or three more days I will certainly be grateful to you." Ser­ geant Pai again hid the knife and started to open the gate to go out. "If you are arrested, even if they break your bones to pieces, you must not tell about anyone else," Rey Shuan warned him in a low voice. Sergeant Pai nodded and opened the gate of the compound. He took the kitchen chopper back home, and went immediately to the little temple. . With his head bent he walked by the little temple and looked out of the corners of his eyes . The gate of the temple was open and no one was visible in the hall or in the courtyard . He passed by thinking that he must buy some incense sticks, that carrying incense in his hands he would look more like a real seeker of knowledge about the future. Not far beyond the little temple he saw Wang the Third. Ser­ geant Pai recognized Wang the Third's red nose and square head. He coughed . Wang the Third jumped . Sergeant Pai smiled very convincingly and said, "How are you, Third Master Wang?" His approach was familiar but not abrupt or startling, and only he who had been a policeman for many years could have been so natural. "What's the matter? Who are you?" Wang the Third showed his confusion. "Don't you remember me?" Sergeant Pai pretended to be an old acquaintance. "My name is Pai. I live near the Little Sheep Fold ." The three words Little Sheep Fold seemed to be a dagger thrust into Wang the Third's heart. Sergeant Pai began to walk toward the west, and Wang the Third unconsciously walked along with him . Wang the Third's nose was still red but it did not shine, and his forehead which had always shone was now not only dark but heavily lined . His eyelids were red as though he had not slept for many nights. There was dust not only on · his shoes, but even on his shoulders and on his tro'users as if he had stood in the street for several days . "Let us find a place where we can sit down awhile," Sergeant Pai suggested . Wang the Third nodded his square head. "Ah?" Wang the Third questioned as soon as they had sat down. It was as if Sergeant Pai had already asked him a question, and his ·

502

words were so tightly packed in his heart that they were ready to burst forth . If even a dog had wagged its tail to him it was very likely he would have told what was in his mind. "My in-law, my in-law, they have taken him," he said abruptly. "Mr. Chien?" said Sergeant Pai, thinking of the time seven years before when Mr. Chien had been arrested . "How do you know?" "They told me-they, the Japanese. Ha-I am smart! In order to protect my property, in order to provide food and drink for my daughter and my grandson, I have been friendly with the Japanese. Because I peeped at the little temple they went in and stole my in-law away, and then they told me not to worry, that they would not make him suffer. Hum-seven years ago they beat the flesh off his back! I have no face to go home and see my grandson . I have sent his grandfather into the tiger's mouth-what face have I to see that child?" Wang the Third said this over and over, almost as though he were not talking but spewing out the misery in his heart. "We must think of some way to save Mr. Chien ." Sergeant Pai said this trying to lead Wang the Third' s words towards ways for making plans. "Save him? Of course." Wang the Third brought a pile of bank notes from inside his clothes . "I have already prepared this money, to move around, and try to buy out my in-law. If this is not enough I can sell my houses. I can spend money, money. What are houses ! Whatever happens I must first see my in-law again and tell him that I am a fool, that I am not a man. I know that once I tell him this he will understand me and will forgive me. He is an educated man and an understanding person. If he has been beaten to death by them, and I cannot see him-I really don't know how I will be able to meet him in the regions below. My bones will not stay in the coffin. Help me, help me-pity me, pity me." "Surely I will help you ." "How will you help me?" Wang the Third wanted to give Sergeant Pai some money, but he must first know clearly what was Sergeant Pai's plan before he gave him the money. "We must first find out where Mr. Chien's friends are and then we will find some way to save him." "Where will we go to make inquiries?" "Inside the little temple." "Good, I'll go." Wang the Third stood up. "Wait a bit." Sergeant Pai also sto�d up and stopped Wang the Third. "I'll go. You stand afar and watch. If, unfortunately, I am caught by them, you can take a message to Rey Shuan. 50 3

"Good." Color began to appear in Wang the Third's cheeks. Although to save Mr. Chien was still a long way off, he felt that they had started on the path. He gave Sergeant Pai a few bank notes. "Take these. If you don't want them I'm the 'son of a dog.' You are doing things for my relative, I cannot let you use your own money for eating and drinking."

Chapter Twenty-two

V

CHIEN sat on the steps of the house and held her head in her hands . It was as though she could not remember clearly what had happened a few hours before. As she tried to remember she stammered, "He went out to buy something to eat-" "Then what? Speak." Wang the Third was becoming impatient. "Went out-and for a long time did not come back." "Why did you let him go out alone?" She did not want to argue. "I thought he was playing and eating inside the gate. After a while I began to worry and went to see. He was not there. I went to the street to look for him. I looked­ ! called-" Again she bent her head. Wang the Third also sat down on the steps. He controlled his anger and tried to think. He thought a long time and then began to tell his daughter the events of the last few days, hoping that possibly among these events, they could find some hint of the cause for the loss of the child. When she had heard her father's story young Mrs. Chien stood up. "The child has been stolen by the Japanese." "Japanese?" "They have arrested my father-in-law and stolen my child. With the child beside him-even with a heart of iron-the old man would have to say whatever they wanted him to say. They might even torture my child to death. You are good-for those three houses of yours you have wiped out the Chien family!" Wang the Third was unable to say a word. Exhaustion, anger, shame, made him stare stupidly at the wall of the compound. Sergeant Pai came the next day. He told Wang the Third that Mr. Chien was indeed in prison but had not been tortured. This news he had learned from the fortune papers in the little temple. On the fortune papers were other messages but he could not tell Wang the Third of these. "Oh-he hasn't been tortured ." Wang the Third smiled. "Hum-the Japanese will soon be defeated, they dare not strike. 5 04 ouNG MRS.

His mother's-- ! A herd of Things that bully the weak and flee from the tough ! " "But m y grandson i s lost." Wang the Third stopped smiling. "Lost?" Sergeant Pai stood still. "Lost." "Also the Japanese?" Wang the Third could not answer. He wanted only to slap his own face but his arm was too heavy to lift. After sitting silent a long time he asked, "Could you make inquiries?" Sergeant Pai knew that he could not but he was unwilling to refuse and leave Wang the Third without hope. "I'll try. I'll do the best I can." Sergeant Pai took his leave. He knew that the trouble in the Wang family was very serious but there was nothing he could do. He had his own work. Rey Shuan and he had deciphered the message on the fortune paper: Mr. Chien is in prison but has not been tortured because the Japanese hope to persuade him to join them. 2. The monk, Clear Moon, for the time being cannot be active. Spies follow him constantly. 3 . Rey Tang's work takes him more and more outside the city and he cannot come often to Peiping. 4. Rey Shuan should take over Mr. Chien's work as editor of the underground paper and find ways to send the script out­ side the city. A smart man who can use his legs is required.

L

Rey Shuan was willing to be the editor. Sergeant Pai was willing to be the messenger. They both knew that the work might cost them their heads, but both, without the slightest hesitation, de­ cided to accept the assignment. The two of them looked with complete absorption at the fortune paper, and then looked at each other and smiled as if to say, "If one must die it is happier and simpler to die in this way." Sergeant Pai had to go every day outside the city with th e script and bring back the news. Every day he had to change his route and every day he had to change his make-up. He had a small peddling business for camouflage. He came often to the Little Sheep Fold but not to see Rey Shuan . He and Rey Shuan had already planned .not to meet in the neighborhood of the Little Sheep Fold. He came to visit John Ting. He told John Ting all about his business, his difficulties, and other little matters, so that John Ting should not suspect him. 50 5

If only J olm Ting did not suspect him there was no other person in the Little Sheep Fold who would start rumors about him. Young Mrs. Chien went on the streets every day hunting for her son. Her life was divided into separate halves-one half dead and the other half alive . She was dead to food and drink and her housework, but she lived when she walked and shouted as she went to all parts of the city to look for her child. She went up and down the streets, looking to the east and to the west. Whenever she saw a boy about the size of her son she would go over quickly, and often frightened the child . When she saw that he was not her son she would not cry out nor would she say anything, but would pat the child very lightly on the head. After a day of searching she would go home as if by instinct. She would not say a word to her father-it was as if he were no longer her father. In the night she would kneel in the courtyard and murmur, "Father of my child, protect your son ." She could say only this one sentence, and would repeat it over and over. Wang the Third clenched his big fists often until the bones ground. He hired people to help him look for the child. Those he hired-beating brass gongs-went into all the residence streets and shouted . He also asked people to write many posters which he put up in all parts of the city. The Japanese told him that Mr. Chien was in prison and being treated well, and told him not to worry. The best way, the Japanese said, would be for him and his daughter to write a letter to Mr. Chien urging him not to be so stubborn . If Mr. Chien would co-operate with them, not only would Mr. Chien have a high official position but it would also be advantageous to Wang the Third. Wang the Third inquired about his grandson . The Japanese only smiled slightly and said nothing, and so he knew that-nine chances out of ten-the child had been stolen by them, and that if Mr. Chien were determined not to co-operate they would then deal with the child. Wang the Third could only promise to write to Mr. Chien. If the letter had any effect perhaps the child would not suffer for the time being. He asked a friend to write the letter and gave it to the Japanese. When he had delivered the letter he regretted it. He knew the disposition of his relative-how strong and stubborn it was. Sup­ pose that seeing his letter Mr. Chien was even more determined not to co-operate with the Japanese, would Wang the Third not have killed the child? . He went again to plead with the Japanese to let him go and see 5 06

Mr. Chien. He thought that if once he could see his relative he could explain everything, and be forgiven; but the Japanese shook their heads.

Chapter Twenty-three

/1 V

unconditionally; Peiping's newspapers dared not discuss the reasons for the surrender but tried to divert attention by saying that the Imperial Army of Japan would fight to the end, and that even if the allied forces should invade the homeland, Japan could not be conquered . The "sacred war" discussed in this way seemed somewhat shop­ worn. The Japanese living in Peiping worked all the harder to make friends with the Chinese, and now it was not on instructions from their officials but on their own initiative. Some Japanese even went so far as to become sworn brothers with Chinese, or acknowledged old ladies in Peiping as their "sworn mothers ." During this period the Japanese Army had to show its leniency by letting go a few prisoners who were not yet quite dead . They also selected a few young Chinese from the prisons whose bones were not yet broken and told them to write confessions, and then sent them into the interior to seek the news of peace and to spread rumors of peace. "The Japanese military love peace . How wonder­ ful it would be if now China and Japan should make peace and together fight against England and America." Except for the Japanese the busiest were the traitors. Their greatest talent was to turn the rudder when the wind changed. Even the surrender of Germany meant they must do something. Some of them quickly announced that they had divorced their wives so that even if they themselves could not escape the most severe punishment, their wives and children could still have their property. Some of them sent their children secretly to the interior, hoping they could keep a foot in each boat and lessen their guilt in selling their country. Some of them sent close friends or relatives to the interior to join the Chinese, to make it seem that their sur­ render to the enemy had really been u"nderground work for the Chinese. Even in the Little Sheep Fold, Commissioner of Education Niu -who lived in the house with the four willow trees outside the gate and had never admitted that he was a traitor-could no longer remain calm. He could no longer be absorbed in his collection of books and scientific equipment but tried to slip secretly away ERMANY SURRENDERED

507

from Peiping. He got only as far as the Chien Men Station and was caught by the Japanese and put in prison . On the wave of leniency the storyteller, Fang the Sixth, with the black mole on his face, was freed from prison. The people of the Little Sheep Fold were more interested in the release of Fang the Sixth than they were in the · arrest of Com­ missioner Niu. They surrounded Fang the Sixth like a swarm of bees and comforted him. Although when he was arrested they had not had the courage to sign their names to get him out, since he was out they could not be cold to him. Fang the Sixth was no longer the Fang the Sixth they had known. He would no longer tell funny stories at any moment. He had been in prison; he had seen death and torture. He soon began telling stories again to earn his living, but he went with his head hanging and he came home the same way. He could not go back to the broadcasting station, and the tea shops would not engage him as they had done before. He could only go to the amusement park at the Bridge of Heaven, and to the temple fairs in the east and west cities, to tell his stories in the open air and earn a few coppers. Whether it was at the Bridge of Heaven or elsewhere, he would frequently use the most poisonous words to reveal his hatred. He not only made his audience laugh, but he would also take the opportunity to speak in irony and sarcasm about current events, and so stimulate the patriotism of the audience. The audiences were able to catch his inferences and innuendoes, so when he told his stories he was always surrounded by so thick a crowd that even the wind could not get through. They all liked to hear the jests and stories that had strength and sinews and could carry their hatred. He even went to Rey Shuan to ask him to explain the new terms in the papers, and the news which he could not un.derstand. Rey Shuan was pleased to be a volunteer teacher but he warned Fang the Sixth not to come too often, and that it would be better to meet in the streets where they could use the time while Rey Shuan went to school or came back, and talk on the way. Since Rey Shuan had taken Mr. Chien's place as editor of the under­ ground paper he had to be very careful. If Fang the Sixth came to see him and John Ting should see them, there would very likely be trouble. If Rey Shuan liked Fang the Sixth, he despised John Ting. When John Ting heard that Germany had surrendered he began to come often to see Rey Shuan. Rey Shuan was most fearful that 5 08

John Ting should see his manuscripts, but he dared not refuse to see him, and say that he was busy. John Ting thought that Germany had been defeated by England alone. He did not know much about world affairs, but he always had his own point of view about the international situation. Next to England, John Ting most admired Germany. German bicycles and chemical dyes were perhaps the main reasons for his admiration of Germany. In his conversation he liked to say, "Out­ side of English goods one must count the German brands as the best." This kind of speech was to show that he understood world affairs . Before the word Germany he always put the word "old" as though he and Germany were old neighbors . He must try to be friendly with Rey Shuan . All his goods and chattels ! Suppose the English Palace opened its doors again one day, and Rey Shuan should tell them that John Ting had had dealings with the Japanese-could he endure that? He talked with Rey Shuan about how much more powerful England was than Germany. He would also ask Rey Shuan's advice : "Suppose Japan is also defeated, should we not kill all the Japanese in Peiping?" Rey Shuan could not make any answer, and wished only that he could kick John Ting out with one swift kick. When Rey Shuan did not answer John Ting thought that what he had said was right, and quickly added, "In our Little Sheep Fold, I am Head of the Li, so wait and see. It would be strange if I did not show the people in house Number One and Number Three. Mr. Chi, you are my witness to prove that from the begin­ ning to the end I have always been a man of the English Palace. When Mr. Goodrich comes back I can go again and serve the old gentleman. Am I not right?" Rey Shuan knew that if he should say "Yes," John Ting wou1d immediately bow and ask Rey Shuan to be kind to him, as though whether he could get back to the English Palace or not depended on Rey Shuan's words. If he should say "No," John Ting would certainly ask for detailed explanations, and he had no time to waste words with ·this running dog. Cheng Chang Shun brought Rey Shuan a piece of news. Chang' Shun told him that recently the Japanese had begun to sell things. Chang Shun himself had not bought anything from them because he was unwilling to trade with the Japanese, but he had been stopped by them, and had seen others of his profession buying from them. "Mr. Chi, judging from this it would seem that the 5 09

J apanese

are really going to be defeated. They are selling their odds and ends to get a bit of money for returning to their homes." Rey Shuan could not but admit that Chang Shun was right. "Mr. Chi, have you noticed that from the time Germany sur­ rendered," Chang Shun's nasal tones said, "the J apanese have changed their manner? They now bow to us and smile at us. And see, the people of house Number Three always have their gate closed as if they were afraid that someone might go in and kill them." One day Rey Shuan received an unexpected letter. Although the letter was signed with a false signature he saw at a glance that it was Old Three's writing. He wondered how Old Three dared to send a letter in this way to his home. Old Three's letters had always been sent through some secret channel and had never come through the post office. After he had read a few sentences he began to feel easy. A letter such as this could not make any trouble even if it were seen by the censors. "I have seen our fat sister-in-law at the Drowned Horse Lake. Her goods have all been confiscated and she can do nothing but sell her fat flesh . There are running sores between her fingers. I do not pity her and I do not revile her. She will very likely rot there." Rey Shuan could guess that the fat sister-in-law must be Fat Chrysanthemum, and although he did not know where the Drowned Horse Lake was, he could guess from between the lines that it could not be a respectable place. He went to ask Fang the Sixth . Fang the Sixth told him that it was the main district in Tientsin for the lowest houses of prostitution. While the J apanese in Peiping were busying themselves to secure adopted mothers and to sell their possessions, the Chinese in J apan were seeking every means to get back to China. The homeland of J apan was suffering from severe air raids. And they­ whether traitors or students-were not willing to lose their lives and money in J apan. Seeing the bombs they remembered their own homeland. In Peiping, those who had thought of going to Japan now all feared that they might be sent to J apan to attend meetings or on b usiness. They thought of all means to avoid being sent. Their lives were more important than anything else. They could not go to places where bombs fell like rain. Lan the Eastern Sun only was still fired with the idea of going to J apan. He had been ill for a long time. While ill a J apanese doctor and nurse had watched him constantly. The J apanese 510

doctor, under orders from the Japanese militarists, could let him live or die as they commanded. If, while delirious, Eastern Sun had said a word or two that showed he was not satisfied with the Japanese, the doctor could have given him poison and let his eyes roll up and never come down again . But Eastern Sun, even when delirious, still shouted, "Ten thousand years to the Heavenly Emperor! " This not only touched the hearts of the doctor and the nurse, but caused them also to make a good report and to praise him as a Chinese most loyal to the Emperor. They nursed him carefully and did everything they could to cure him . They took X-rays of his whole body and sent the plates to Japan to be the material for scientific investigation, to see what special structures there were in his heart, brain, liver, and lungs, that could make him so faithful to Japan . Eastern Sun was still afraid that Rey Tang's bullet would fly into his heart. Having recovered from his illness he wanted to go to Japan and be out of danger of Rey Tang's threats. Because of his illness his position as Department Head in the New People's League had been given to someone else. This did not make him unhappy because the Japanese doctor and nurse had both told him that if he went to Japan he would be given an even higher position. He believed what they told him. Because of Commissioner Niu's arrest, the position of Commis­ sioner of Education was vacant. The Japanese began to think of Lan the Eastern Sun. He was their loyal servant and faithful dog. His good work was on record and they could trust him absolutely. Yes, Eastern Sun would be glad to be the Commissioner of Education, but he must first go to Japan in the name of investi­ gating Japanese education. Suppose while he was in Japan, Rey Tang were caught and killed-could he not then come back in peace to be the Commissioner of Education? Moreover, who knew, he might in Japan marry a Japanese wife. Would he not then be a Prince Consort to Japan? Lan the Eastern Sun went to Japan. Those who had planned to see him off were disappointed, be­ cause he had disguised himself, and protected by two secret police, had quietly and in the night left Peiping. He had been afraid to go to the station and have a fuss made over him-that would cer­ tainly have attracted Rey Tang, who might have shot him. Those who had prepared gifts for . him, to see him off, sighed after he had left, and said to each other, "That man Lan will do, after all. Japan is bombed every day and yet he dares to go. That is what I call being a good Son of Han. Hum-look at us-we want 51 1

to eat but are afraid of the heat of the stove! We will never get anywhere." But it did not enter their minds that Eastern Sun could go to Japan and never come back. Not even a splinter of his bones was ever found. Lan the Eastern Sun and the five-thousand-year-old culture of his race had no connection whatsoever. His cunning and ruthless­ ness were still barbarous . He belonged to the ages of man eat man, dog eat dog. When he met the war, the war started by the Japanese war lords, his dog-eat-dog philosophy fitted exactly with that of the Japanese war lords, so he was able to push up to high position, and with them use the language of men and the bodies of men to display the ruthlessness and cunning of beasts. What kind of world there should be he had never thought. He was a fly-knowing only his own satisfaction when he had sucked a drop of blood or eaten a piece of manure. The world had nothing to do with him. If only he had a piece of offal to eat the world was a beautiful world. He had never considered a world without fire­ arms, bombs, and war; and so he had never thought whether the world should have firearms, bombs, and war. Science had reached beyond all other realms of human thought and had invented the atom bomb. Just as blundering and stupid as the Japanese who had never thought what the world should be, just as blundering and stupid as Eastern Sun's barbarous cunning and ruthlessness, was the creation of the atom bomb by those who had never thought what the world should be. That atomic energy was first used for war is the greatest shame of the human race. It was in this shame to the human race that Lan the Eastern Sun met a weapon of death more cunning and ruthless than he. He did not see the beginning of the new age, but succeeded only in scattering his bones in the old age-the age of man eat man, and dog eat dog.

Chapter Twenty-four '1 F THE HORRORS of war could be shown in the eyes of a child " they were shown in the eyes of Little Niu Niu. Because of hunger she could not run and jump and play. Her neck was so thin it seemed very long, and this long thin neck seemed unable to support her head in spite of the fact that there was not much flesh on her face. Her old and worn trousers and coat were too short but were not tight for there were bones only left in her body. It was as though she were already half dead. When she refused to eat Republic flour her little eyes would 512

seem to say to the family that she had the dignity of her little life : she would not eat what dogs and pigs would not eat. Her deter­ mination could not be shaken. No one could force her. And no one, because of this, felt like scolding her. The anger in her eyes seemed to represent the hatred of war for them all . When her anger was over she would half-open and half-shut her little eyes, and look stealthily at the family as though to apologize, to beg them tQ forgive her. She could not say, "In time of trouble such as this I should not lose my temper," but her eyes said it for her. Then slowly she would shut her eyes and bury all her sufferings in her little heart. Although her eyes were shut she knew that the grown people came often to see her and to sigh for her in secret. She knew that they would give her pity and love so she controlled herself and did not cry out. She must bear the pain in patience. War had taught her how to suffer in patience. She would doze awhile and then when she again opened her eyes would force herself to smile. Blinking her little eyes she cheated herself-she was a good Little Niu Niu that smiled as soon as she woke. And so she made all love her. If, by good chance, the grown people had something for her to eat, her eyes would open wide; she would think only that that bit of food might help her to live. Her eyes would brighten as though she were about to sing-to praise life. When she had eaten, her eyes would show a light like sunshine after a long rain, and would seem to say, 'How easily life can be satisfied! With a little food we can continue to live happily." At such a moment she would even remember the stories her grand­ mother told her. But soon the smile in her eyes would disappear. She had not had enough to eat and wanted more. How small that piece of melon had been, or that shaoping. Why should she have so small a piece to eat? Why? But she would not ask. She knew that her brother, Little Precious, had not had even a small piece of melon . Rey Shuan dared not look at his little daughter. The British and American navies were approaching the homeland of Japan. He knew that the war god of the east would before long surrender _ unconditionally as had Germany and Italy. He should be happy. But of what use to be · victorious over Japan and not be able to save his little daughter? Life once gone could not come back again. What crime had Little Niu Niu committed that she should die like this? Old Man Chi had lately had no energy to care for anything, but 51 3

he would force himself to be concerned about Little Niu Niu . The oldest and youngest hearts meet easily. Whenever Yun Mei was able to get something other than Republic flour for him to eat, he would not even look at it, but would say to her, "Give it to Niu Niu. I have already reached the time to die, but Niu Niu-" and then he would sigh deeply. He knew that even if Niu Niu got that bit of food it was doubtful whether she could become strong and healthy. He also thought of his son who had died, and of the two sons of his son who had disappeared . What if something should happen to the last of the four generations in one house! In the night when he could not sleep, he often prayed, "Heavenly Old Grandfather, take me back, take me back, but ten thousand, leave Little Niu Niu to the Chi family." Yun Mei's maternal eyes had long ago seen the danger, but she could not enlarge upon the small signs and make the old people more worried . She would, on the contrary, often pretend to be unconcerned . "Nothing serious, nothing serious. Niu Niu is a little girl-little girls are hardy." Although she talked this way she suffered in her heart more than any. Niu Niu was her child. In her plans- for the future Niu Niu was the center of her hopes . If she shut her eyes she could see Niu Niu growing into a beautiful young woman, see her marriage, her sons 'and daughters-and herself a grandmother, an old woman of dignity and position. Little Precious was indeed important. From the point of view of the ancestors, he was to carry on the Chi family line, but he was a boy and Yun Mei could not put herself in his place and with her whole heart think and plan for him. Niu Niu was a girl and Yun Mei could use her own experience and think of Niu Niu's future. Mother and daughter are a mutual necessity to each other. Yun Mei dared not think that Niu Niu might die. Indeed, if Niu Niu died, half of Yun Mei would die. To say the most heart­ less thing-Old Man Chi and Mrs. Tien Yiu could die, but Niu Niu must live. Old people were like autumn leaves-they should drop off when the time comes. But Niu Niu was a fresh flower bud . Yun Mei wanted to take her in her arms as she had when Niu Niu was only two or three months old. She wanted Niu Niu to suck her breasts again while she fondled Niu Niu's little hands and feet. But Niu Niu was always with her grandmother. These two-the old one and the young one-were always together, like a body and its shadow. The grandmother's life seemed to have no other use but to care for and comfort Niu Niu. Yun Mei could not take 5 14

Niu Niu from her mother-in-law. Sometimes Yun Mei was almost jealous and wanted to snatch Niu Niu from Mrs. Tien Yiu, but she did not do it. She knew that her mother-in-law had had no daughters; Niu Niu was her granddaughter and also her daughter. And so Yun Mei would comfort her mother-in-law and say, "There is nothing much wrong with Niu Niu . She has no serious illness." It was as though Niu Niu were not her daughter, but only the granddaughter of her mother-in-law. While this little life was flickering between life and death, Rey Shuan received from Old Three so much good news that lie could not use it all . The American Third Fleet was attacking Tokyo Bay. Russia, America, and England had made the Potsdam agreement. The first atom bomb had been dropped on Hiroshima. The weather was hot. Rey Shuan sweated day and night to select and edit, to get and send away the manuscripts . He still pretended to be calm, but his eyes shone and his heart beat fast. He forgot the weakness of his body and felt that he had limitless energy, and refused to be idle a moment. He wanted to sing to celebrate the ending of the greatest tragedy of humankind. Besides reporting the messages of victory he wanted to write his hopes for the future world. He hoped that no one-after this greatest of all lessons taught in blood-would again try to solve problems by force. But he did not write out these ideas . His underground paper was too small for writing of this kind. But he told his hopes to the students in the classroom. He saw mankind as slaves of weapons. He looked down on them because they were slaves . But he also felt happy that mankind could be soft and could, after war, make peace. If mankind could be dis­ armed, and no longer be slaves of weapons, there would be hope for peace. But when he looked at Niu Niu his heart turned cold. Niu Niu did not allow him to have any hope for tomorrow. In his heart he prayed, "Victory is before us. Niu Niu, you mustn't die! Live another half year, another month, perhaps only ten days-Little Niu Niu, you will see peace." His prayer had not the slightest effect. Victory could not save Niu Niu . Victory was only the ending of the war, and could not bring those who had died to life, or keep those severely wounded from dying. When Niu Niu had no way but to eat a mouthful of Republic flour she always washed it down with water or soup. The sand and the husks in the flour accumulated in her appendix. She had acute appendicitis.

A spasm of pain-as if the pain of the eight long years of war had all concentrated in one place-made her curl up into a ball. Cold sweat came out over her whole body so that her old worn coat and trousers were wet through . She screamed shrilly a couple of times. Her lips turned blue and her eyeballs rolled upward . The whole family were around her, and no one knew what to do. Just as in the war, they could think of no good way to act. Seeing Niu Niu motionless Old Man Chi called loudly, "Niu Niu, dear one, wake up, Niu t:Jiu, wake up." Niu Niu's two thin legs, as thin as kaoliang stalks, stretched out. Mrs . Tien Yiu and Yun Mei both rushed to take her up, but Yun Mei let the grandmother take the child. Mrs . Tien Yiu held her granddaughter and called softly, "Niu Niu," Niu Niu." Little Niu Niu had no strength left and lay gasping for breath. "I'll go for a doctor." As if suddenly waking from a dream Rey Shuan rushed out of the room. There was another spasm of pain and Little Niu Niu writhed in her grandmother's arms with all the strength she had left. Mrs. Tien Yiu could not hold her and let her down again on the bed. Niu Niu's little undernourished body could not resist the evil within. She writhed a few times, her eyes rolled up, and she did not move again. Mrs. Tien Yiu placed her hand on Niu Niu's lips . There was no breath . Niu Niu did not open her eyes to look at her grandmother, did not call, "Mother," in her sweet voice. Mrs . Tien Yiu's whole body was covered with cold sweat. Her hand was still stretched out,. and she could neither move nor weep. She stood before the little bed in a daze and her mind was blank. This great sorrow had made her forget how to weep. Seeing that Niu Niu did not move Yun Mei fell over her little daughter's body, embracing that motionless form still wet from tears and sweat. She also forgot how to weep and could only put her mouth on little Niu Niu's chest and call wildly, "Niu Niu, my flesh, my Niu Niu." Little Precious wept aloud. Old Man Chi, shaking and groping, sat on a chair and hung his head. In the room there was only the sound of Yun Mei's cries and the weeping of Little Precious. The old man sat with his head hanging for a long time, and then he suddenly stood up. Slowly but with determination he walked toward the little bed. He took hold of Yun Mei's shoulder and tried to pull her away. Yun Mei held Niu Niu all the tighter. Niu Niu had been born 516

of her, and now it seemed as if she wanted again to be one body with her little daughter. Old Man Chi, half-angry and half-pleading, said, "Get away, get away." Yun Mei heard her grandfather's voice and cried wildly, "What do yoQ want?" The old man pulled again and Yun Mei sat on the ground. The old man picked up Little Niu Niu, and calling, "Niu Niu," he walked toward the door. "Niu Niu, come with your great-grand­ father." Niu Niu's only answer was the slight movement of her legs as they swung. Staggering, the old man carried Niu Niu into the courtyard. Sweat ran from his forehead. Only one or two of the buttons on his short coat were fastened so a piece of his hard dry chest showed. He stood still below the steps . He was gasping as if he were afraid he would forget what he was to do. He held Niu Niu more tightly and still called in a low voice, "Niu Niu, come with me, come." The old man's low calls brought Mrs. Tien Yiu out. She looked straight ahead and moving rigidly followed the old man like an automaton, as if the old man were not calling Niu Niu but calling her. By this time Yun Mei's cries and the weeping of Little Precious had brought quite .a few of the neighbors . John Ting because of his position as Head of the Li stood in front of the group. His expression showed that if there were any­ thing to be said he must be the one to say it. Fourth Mistress Li was now almost blind, but her warmhearted helpfulness and sincerity were as in the old days . Walking with a stick she still busied herself helping others, as if after the "Old Thing" had died she must alone be responsible for helping the neighbors. Cheng Chang Shun, with Little Victory in his arms, stood behind Fourth Mistress Li. He was now like a middle-aged man, but Little Victory was a handsome boy, though not very plump. Old Widow Ma had not come in. Although she was greatly concerned that such weeping should come from the Chi home, she stood outside the gate and waited patiently for Chang Shun to come and tell her everything. The storyteller Fang the Sixth and many others stood silently in the courtyard. Old Man Chi walked with determination but still he walked very slowly. To keep from falling his feet thrust to the left and to the right and so he could not walk quickly. 51 7

Rey Shuan with the doctor rushed into the courtyard. When he had rounded the spirit screen and saw the neighbors in the court­ yard he pushed through them and came face to face with his grandfather. The doctor came over and took hold of Niu Niu's wrist which was already stiffening. Old Man Chi suddenly stood still and lifted his head. He saw the doctor. "What do you want?" he shouted angrily. The doctor paid no attention to the old man's anger but said quietly to Rey Shuan, "The child is dead." Rey Shuan did not seem to hear the doctor but with tears in his eyes went over and took his grandfather's arm. The doctor went away. "Grandfather, where are you taking Niu Niu? She is already-" The word "dead" seemed to stick in Rey Shuan's throat. "Stand aside!" The old man's legs could scarcely move but he still wanted to go forward. "I am going to let the Japanese devils in house Number Three see this. They took away our grain. Their children have grain to eat, but they have starved my great-grand­ daughter. I am going to show them. Stand aside!"

Chapter Twenty-five was struggling to go out of the courtyard, W the Japanese of house Number Three had already bolted the HILE OLD MAN CHI

gate of their compound . They had also piled many things against the gate as if to guard against street-to-street fighting. They had already received word of Japan's surrender. They were very frightened . When their war lords had drummed up the war they had not had the courage to stop it. When the battles went well they forgot the guilt of war and felt only its satisfaction and glory. Even if they themselves had not wanted to kill people, how many Chinese had not their soldiers killed? After bolting and barricading the gate they all went into one room and wept soundlessly. War was now a nightmare. Glory and privilege had suddenly disappeared. They must give up beautiful Peiping, their handsome house, and their own livelihood, and be sent back like prisoners to their own land. And there was the pos­ sibility, if the Chinese neighbors should now come for revenge, that they might lose their lives. While they wept silently they listened for sounds from outside. If the news of the Japanese surrender got to the Chinese ears 518

would not the Chinese, with swords, spears, and sticks, knock down their gate and split their heads? They did not think of the crime of having started the war but thought only of the shame and fear of defeat. At most they felt only that war was not a dependable thing. The old Japanese woman in house Number One opened the two halves of her gate. When the gate was opened she smiled to herself as if to say, "Let those who wish revenge come. We oppressed you for eight years; now you should take revenge. This would be justice." Standing inside the threshold she looked at the big locust trees outside the gate. She was not elated by the news of the defeat of the Japanese army, but she did not feel any shame. She had been antiwar from the beginning. She had long known that those who blindly believed in force would bring disaster on themselves . She stood quietly in the gate and in her heart was sadness. The war was over, but what of those thousands and hundreds of thousands dead? She walked out of the gate. She should go to the neighbors and tell them that Japan had surrendered . This was nothing to be ashamed of. The surrender of Japan was the inevitable result of blindly worshipping force. She could not because she was a J apa­ nese refuse to admit this truth. At the same time she should become good friends with the Chinese and make for her and them a friend­ ship built on foundations above revenge and hatred. As soon as she came out of the gate she walked inevitably toward the gate of the Chi family. She had always considered that Old Man Chi represented some kind of dignity, but she felt that she understood Rey Shuan. Rey Shuan used English to talk with her; his attitudes and knowledge were such as to make her like and respect him. She had traveled all over the world, and Rey Shuan had never been outside the city of Peiping, yet what she knew he knew also . No, he not only knew but was understanding about world affairs, and had definite hope for the future of mankind. Just as she reached the threshold of the Chi family gate, Old Man Chi carrying Niu Niu came around the spirit screen . Rey Shuan was supporting his grandfather. The Japanese woman stood still. In a glance she saw that Niu Niu was dead. She had come to please the Chi family, and to talk with Rey Shuan about the future relations between China and Japan; but she saw a half-dead old man carrying a dead child-as if half-dead China embraced thousands and tens of thousands of dead sons. What was the dif519

ference between victory and defeat? What was the good of victory? The day of victory should be cursed and should be wept. The shame of surrender had not made her downhearted but the death of Little Niu Niu made her lose her self-confidence and courage. She started to go back home. Old Man Chi's eyes moved from Niu Niu to the gate. It seemed as if he could not recognize the gate through which he had come in and gone out a thousand times, and felt only that it was a place through which to go out and find the Japanese. He saw the old Japanese woman. The old woman, like Old Man Chi, loved peace and had lost the young people of her family; she should have been able to go forward to the old man without any sense of shame, but a war of aggression makes the militarists arrogant and the people with conscience feel ashamed. She was after all a citizen of Japan . She felt that she should carry some of the responsibility for the death of Little Niu Niu. She backed a few steps. Before Old Man Chi she felt that she was guilty. Old Man Chi without stopping to think shouted, "Stand still, look, look!" He lifted Niu Niu's thin corpse for the old Japanese woman to see. The old woman stood silent. She wanted to turn and run but it was as though the old man held her fast. Rey Shuan, still supporting his grandfather, called quietly, "Grandfather, Grandfather." He knew that the death of Little Niu Niu had nothing to do with the old woman of house Number One, and he knew that his grandfather had always respected the old woman; but he dared not argue with his grandfather for the old man was already half-dead and half-alive, half-conscious and half in a stupor. The old man, still staggering, went forward . The neighbors silently followed him. The old woman seeing the old man was coming closer seemed to brace herself. She had some fear of the old man, but she knew that he was a righteous man and that if it were not for the death of Niu Niu he would not have made this scene. She must tell them that Japan had surrendered so they could have a little comfort. In English she said to Rey Shuan, "Tell your grandfather that Japan has surrendered." Rey Shuan did not seem to understand and asked himself in Chinese, "Japan surrendered?" and looked again at the old woman . The old woman nodded slightly. 520

Rey Shuan suddenly began to tremble. Trembling and in a daze he placed his hand on Little Niu Niu's body� "What did she say?" Old Man Chi asked in a loud voice. Holding one of Niu Niu's little cold hands Rey Shuan looked at her little face and said to himself, "Victory, Niu Niu, but you-" "What did she say?" the old man shouted again. Rey Shuan quickly let go Niu Niu's hand and looked at his grandfather and at the neighbors. He smiled with tears in his eyes. He wanted to shout, "We've won the war," but in a low voice and as if unwillingly he said to his grandfather, "Japan has surrendered." When he had told them the tears streamed down his face. The sufferings of the last eight years in his mind and body seemed to weigh a thousand and ten thousand catties. Although Rey Shuan's voice had been very low, the words, "Japan has surrendered," were like the wind that blows, and reached the ears of all the neighbors. All immediately forgot the death of Little Niu Niu, forgot to pity Old Man Chi and Rey Shuan, forgot to care for Yun Mei and Mrs . Tien Yiu. Everyone wanted to do something and say some­ thing. They seemed to want to run out to see what victory looked like and to open their mouths and shout, "Ten thousand years to the Chinese Republic." Even Old Man Chi seemed to forget what he had been about to do, and could only look at this one and look at that one. Sorrow and joy and confusion were all mixed together. The old Japanese woman suddenly became the target of all eyes. She was now no longer a peace-loving old Japanese woman with ideals; she was a Japanese and the symbol of force, invasion, and slaughter. Those eyes all carried the fire of hate and bored into her. What should she do? She could not defend herself with words. Words on the day of settlement were of no use. She knew she had no guilt but she could not speak. It seemed that she had to share in the crime of the Japanese militarists. In spite of the fact that her ideals were above national boundaries and race she had­ because of her country and her race-to be charged with the crime. She looked at the people before her and suddenly felt that she did not know them. They were no longer her neighbors but people who hated her and perhaps even wanted to kill her. She knew that these neighbors were gentle people and easy to deal with, yet who could guarantee that today they would not become deli­ rious and want revenge? Yun Mei had stopped weeping. She went to her grandfather and took Niu Niu from him. What had victory to do with her? She asked only to hold Niu Niu a little longer. 521

Holding Niu Niu's little dead body tightly Yun Mei walked slowly back into the courtyard. She bent her head and looked at Niu Niu's greyish, thin, and quiet little face, and called in a low voice, "Niu Niu," as if Niu Niu were only sleeping. Old Man Chi turned and followed her. "Mother of Little Precious, did you hear? Japan has surrendered. Mother of Little Precious, don't weep any more. We have good days before us. Just now I was out of my mind with grief. I wanted to take Niu Niu to find the Japanese. I was wrong. I should not have thought of desecrating Niu Niu that way. Mother of Little Precious, find some clean clothes for Niu Niu, wash her face. Don't let her enter her little coffin with tears on her face. Mother of Little Precious, don't worry. The Japanese devils will soon have all rolled away, and we will be able, peacefully and happily, to live our lives. You and the Eldest are still young and can bear more children ." Yun Mei seemed not to hear the old man's pleading, his efforts to comfort her. She walked forward slowly, calling in a low voice, "Niu Niu." Mrs. Tien Yiu was still standing in the courtyard, and when she saw Yun Mei she followed her. She seemed to know that Yun Mei would not be willing to let her take Niu Niu, so she only followed her daughter-in-law. Fourth Mistress Li had been standing with Mrs. Tien Yiu and now without thinking she followed the mother and daughter-in-law. The three women slowly went into the room. At this moment-beyond the screen-the storyteller Fang the Sixth said loudly to his neighbors, "Neighbors, we should today take our revenge." The words were addressed to all the neighbors but his eyes were on the old Japanese woman. All heard the words of Fang the Sixth but did not understand what he meant. They were all people of Peiping who could bear disaster with patience and who did not think of vengeance when the disaster had passed . They always followed history but never thought of creating or changing history. Even when contrary winds blew they would still live by their never-changing philosophy for living in the world . Behind this philosophy was the belief that evil had its own evil reward-there was no need for them to strike back at their enemies . How terrible the Japanese had been-yet Japan had surrendered . Eight years of occupation, how long that had been ! But compared with the six or seven hundred years of the history of Peiping, what did eight years count? No one moved . Fang the Sixth began to explain to them, "We have had eight 522

years of suffering, and not a day on which anyone dared say that his head would not come off his body. Should we not today give them a little bitterness to eat? Even if you dare not kill should you not at least spit upon them?" The always mild and gentle Cheng Chang Shun agreed with Fang the Sixth . "Right, even if we don't beat or kill them, should we not spit squarely in their faces?" In his nasal tones he shouted, "Come on !" All started toward the old Japanese woman. She did not under­ stand what they had been saying but she could see that their attitude was hostile. She wanted to walk away but she did not move. She straightened her back and waited bravely for their attack. She must suffer their insults and blows; only so could she lessen her guilt and that of the other Japanese. Rey Shuan had been sitting all this time on the ground as though he had lost consciousness. Suddenly he stood up and with one step came between the old woman and the crowd. His face still had no color, but his eyes were bright. Lifting his chest he seemed suddenly taller. Determined but still gentle, he said, "What are you planning to do?" None of them, not even Fang the Sixth, dared reply. Chinese respect men of scholarship. Rey Shuan fitted their ideal and was the only one among them who was educated. "Are you planning first to beat this old lady?" Rey Shuan empha­ sized the words "old lady." Everyone looked at Rey Shuan and looked at the old Japanese woman . Fang the Sixth was the first to shake his head . No one was willing to hurt an old woman. Rey Shuan turned and said to the Japanese woman, "You had better go." The old woman sighed, bowed to all, turned and walked away. After the old woman had gone John Ting came in. As soon as he saw John Ting come in Fang the Sixth thought he had reinforcements. Ever since the defeat of Germany, John Ting had told them all that when Japan was defeated they should deal properly with the Japanese in Peiping. "John, what do you think? Should we not go to house Number Three and give those Japanese a lesson?" "What's happened?" John Ting had not heard the news. "Japan is finished, surrendered," Fang the Sixth answered in a loud voice. John Ting closed his eyes as he was in the habit of doing in 52 3

church when he said "Amen ." Then without a word he turned and started to run. "Where are you going?" Rey Shuari asked him. "I-I'm going to the English Palace," John Ting shouted.

Chapter Twenty-six in Chengtu, in Kunming, in Sian, and in many Jaloudotherbecause cities the people were cheering, singing, and weeping they were so happy; but Peiping was silent. The N CHUNGKING,

Japanese soldiers in Peiping had not yet been disarmed. The Japanese gendarmes still patrolled the streets . The sorrow and pain of a conquered nation could not be swept away by victory as one wipes the dust off a table. But there was one gay thing : the Japanese took down their rising sun flags and the Chinese hung out the flags with the blue sky and the white sun. There were no processions, no salvos of cannon, no cheers, but the flag with the blue sky and the white sun gave the people comfort. The White Dagoba in the North Sea Park still stood proudly. The lotus in the lakes had still their red or white petals and gave out their_ fragrance. The altars, temples, and palaces still shone majestically in their gold and green light. Those old and heavily glazed tiles seemed always to be newly made. Peiping was quiet. In the whole city in this time of victory there . was no disturbance. The Japanese had been too hasty when they closed and blocked their gates . The most silent, perhaps, was the Chi family. Rey Shuan helped his grandfather to his room and the old man sat on the edge of his bed and held Rey Shuan's hand. The old man thought of the difficulties of the past eight years and wanted to curse in a loud voice. He thought of his dead son, and grandson, and great-grand­ daughter and wanted to weep loudly. Slowly he loosened Rey Shuan's hand and slowly lay down. Rey Shuan called Little Precious and told him to stay and keep the old man company. Little Precious was glad to have this responsibility. He dared not go to the room where Niu Niu lay, and he did not want to stay alone in the courtyard. Without Niu Niu it seemed there was no place for him. To stay with the great-grandfather was something to do. Obediently he let the old man hold his hand. The old man shut his eyes as if he were going to sleep but the 5 24

warmth of Little Precious' hand seemed to flow through the old man's hands into his h�art. He felt that he was not only alive and holding his great-grandson's hand-the oldest one and the youngest one who had not been killed by the war-but he seemed to be lying on a cloud and to be dissolving into the cloud. He held Little Precious' hand more tightly. Little Precious would enjoy peace, have sons and daughters, and the Chi family would never cease to have sons for the worship of the ancestors. He held the hand of Little Precious even more tightly so that the old hand and the young hand seemed to become one. The old man opened his eyes as if he wanted to say to Little Precious, "You and I are the two extremes of the four generations in one house, we must both live. What is war if we two can live? And even if I die, you must live to be my age and have your own four generations in one house." Little Precious seeing that the old man had opened his eyes wanted to talk. He said, "Great-grandfather, are you awake?" The old man did not answer but closed his eyes again, and on his face there was a slight smile. Rey Shuan walked around the courtyard a few times and looked through the glass into the room. His mother and his wife were sitting at the head of the bed looking at Niu Niu . His tears fell suddenly and he went away and stood under the date tree. His head ached and he could not concentrate. The death of Niu Niu seemed to have crossed out all that he had struggled for in the last eight years. While Rey Shuan was standing under the date tree Sergeant Pai and Wang the Third came in. Sergeant Pai was sweating from exertion. With one hand he wiped the sweat from his head. The other he stretched out to Rey Shuan. "Ha-Mr. Chi, we have won the victory !" He wanted to shake Rey Shuan's hand affectionately, but seeing Rey Shuan's sorrowful face he withdrew his hand. "What has happened, Mr. Chi?" Before Rey Shuan could answer Wang the Third said, "Mr. Chi, help me. We have won the war, why don't we go immediately to find Mr. Chien and my grandson? I beg you to help me find out where they are." Rey Shuan wanted very much to go at once with Wang the Third to search for Mr. Chien. But he could not rouse himself nor could he go away and leave the two women watching Niu Niu's body. Who knew but that the mother, in the severity of her grief, might not faint or even die. He pointed to the room. 52 5

Sergeant Pai went over and Wang the Third followed him. Sergeant Pai looked through the glass into the room. Having been a police officer for many years, he was acquainted with all manner of sorrowful occasion. He knew that he must find a way to make those two women weep aloud . If they made no sound but sat there staring at Niu Niu there could be serious trouble, espe­ cially with Mrs." Tien Yiu. "Mr. Chi, you must start to weep aloud," Sergeant Pai said in a low voice to Rey Shuan. "If you weep aloud they will have to weep with you. They must weep aloud or the pain in their hearts will suffocate them, kill them." Rey Shuan had not decided whether to follow Sergeant Pai' s advice or not when a man and a woman came in from outside. The man was like a slender black pagoda, tall and thin but with a body strong and hard. His head was bare and the hair cut closely like that of a soldier. His face was thin and hard and dark, and there was a light of satisfaction in his black bean eyes . He was wearing a student's uniform that was two or three sizes too small. The coat barely reached his waist and the trousers showed half his leg. Although his clothes had no style and were unbecom­ ing he wore them with a contented and simple air. His head was held high and there was a smile on his hard cheeks . His right hand held Kaodee's hand . Kaodee's was also thin, and because of this her thick lips were better to look upon. There were many smile wrinkles on her short nose. Her hair had not been curled and there was no lipstick on her lips. She seemed to have shaken off entirely all the influences of Big Red Pepper and Meydee and-without any make-up-to reveal her real self. Her head was also held high as though she were looking at Old Three's cheeks or at the blue sky. As they rounded the spirit screen Old Three shouted in a loud voice, "Mother." His voice was so loud that Wang the Third jumped. Rey Tang had not intended to make such a noise but had shouted involuntarily. The word that he had not used for so many years seemed to spring out of itself. "Old Three," Rey Shuan also shouted. He seemed to have for­ gotten for the moment that Little Niu Niu was dead. Old Three was the representative of China's youth-the symbol of a brave and vigorous new China. When Rey Shuan reached them he also recognized Kaodee. With a hand for each he drew them toward him and the hot tears went round and round in his eyes. Sergeant Pai wanted to greet Old Three but seeing that Rey Shuan had no intention of letting go Old Three's hand he quietly 52 6

stepped aside. He knew that when people of one family come together again they do not want strangers to intrude. "Let's go." Sergeant Pai was drawing Wang the Third out of the courtyard as he spoke. Old Three's voice had melted the ice in the room. Mrs. Tien Yiu had not wept the whole time but had sat there in a stupor looking at Niu Niu. When she heard the voice of Old Three her heart moved with such a movement as the child makes in its mother's womb. Old Three, her baby, was in the courtyard calling her. She was alive again and the tears that had been held back so long suddenly began to fall. With Old Three back she felt that she did not have to watch Niu Niu any longer. Niu Niu was already dead but her own son was alive. The tears blinded her eyes and she groped her way out of the room. As soon as she came out of the room Old Three let go his brother's hand and rushed over to her. Mrs . Tien Yiu wept aloud. Old Three held her ice-cold hands and called "Mother," over and over. Over his mother's shoulder he saw his eldest sister-in-law. "Eldest Sister-in-law, I've come back." Yun Mei did not turn her head to look at her brother-in-law but threw herself on Niu Niu's body and began to weep aloud. "What's happened? What's happened?" Old Three was im­ patient with the weeping of his mother and his sister-in-law. Hold­ ing his mother's hand he went into the room where Yun Mei was . With one glance he saw the little bed. When Rey Shuan heard his mother and his wife weeping he felt more at ease. He knew that weeping was the best means for getting rid of sorrow. He decided to tell his grandfather the news of Old Three's return. "Grandfather, Grandfather," Rey Shuan called in a hushed voice. The old man seemed to be asleep and grunted without opening his eyes. "Grandfather, Old Three has come back." "What?" The old man's eyes were still shut. "Old Three has returned." The old man opened his eyes. "Little Three, my Little Three, where is he?" The old man sat up. "Where is he?" the old man asked impatiently. Without waiting for Rey Shuan to answer he shouted, "Little Three, Little Three, come here. I want to see you." Then leaning on Rey Shuan he started out of the room. "To come back and not come first to see your grandfather! What a child !" When Old Three saw his grandfather he suddenly stood still . 527

His grandfather was no longer the strong and healthy grandfather of his memory. He had changed to a thin, weak, bent, old man. Not only his hair and his beard were white but even his eyebrows were all white. The old man put his dried, withered hand on his grandson's shoulder, and said, "Good, good, Little Three, you are even taller and stronger. Ah-you have been away for eight years but your grandfather waited for you. Good, now I am easy and even if I die I will be at peace, my Little Three has come back." Mrs. Tien Yiu, still weeping, came out into the courtyard. She walked toward her son . The old man looked at his daughter-in-law and sighed and then very gently said, "Don't weep any more, Little Three has come back-is that not happiness?" Mrs. Tien Yiu nodded and wiped the tears with the corner of her coat. The old man saw Kaodee and rubbed his old eyes, and asked, "Are you not the elder daughter of the Kuan family?" Kaodee nodded. "Did you come with Little Three?'' The old man had no use for any of the Kuans even though he knew that Kaodee was better behaved than Big Red Pepper and Meydee. "That's right," Kaodee said and went over and took Mrs. Tien Yiu's hand. "Ah-" The old man did not want to make Kaodee unhappy so did not continue to question her. After a few moments the old man called Old Three into his own room. "Little Three, what is this about the daughter of the Kuan family?" Old Three without any hesitation answered directly, "She has no place to go. She wants to stay here a few days." "Oh-" The old man slowly lay down. "Are you-" Old Three guessed what his grandfather meant. "Maybe-" The old man did not say anything for a long time-he still did not like the Kuan family no matter how good Kaodee herself was . "Grandfather, don't you want more people in the family?" Old Three said and smiled. The old man thought awhile. "What you say is right."

Chapter Twenty-seven

JI in a suit of short but clean Little Niu Niu could be dressed only old clothes. She was put into a AVING NO NEW CLOTHES

small wooden box and buried outside the city. Yun Mei was ill and could not get up . It was fortunate that Old Three and Kaodee were there. Old Three had not planned to stay at home and wanted to get away again to do work as important as resistance to the enemy. He had seen China and knew what China needed, he could not stay at home like an old woman and deal only with oil, salt, soy sauce, and vinegar; but he could not go now. He must first get Uncle Chien out of prison and see that he had some definite place to live before he could feel at ease, and, at this time his grandfather, mother, brother, and sister-in-law all greatly needed him. He knew that his loud laughter and talk and his careless ways could break up the deadly silence . of the family. Old Three's method with his sister-in-law was very simple but effective. He did not try to comfort her but made her ears ring from morning to night with his demands. "Sister-in-law, haven't you got up yet? I want some chiaotse. For eight years I have not eaten chiaotse such as you make." Or, "Sister-in-law, get up, find some old clothes for me. Look at what I am wearing-so tight I cannot breathe." He knew that his sister­ in-law who liked to be kind would certainly be tricked by him into struggling to get up and do something, and that once she got up and began to do things the wound in her heart would begin to heal. Besides stimulating his sister-in-law with his demands he also told her about the tragic things he had seen with his own eyes­ the boys and girls bombed in the air raids, the children thrown by their own parents into the rivers when they were forced to flee. Niu Niu was after all only one of thousands and tens of thousands of little children who had died in the war. Gradually the sister-in-law was able to get up and begin to work. She was thin, and the thinner she became the larger her eyes seemed. As she worked she would suddenly stand still as if to think of something. That she should not have the opportunity to be silent in this way Old Three told Little Precious to stay more with his mother and chat with her. With his eldest brother Old Three had many things to talk about.

The two of them moved into one room so that Kaodee could stay with Yun Mei. After they had talked for three or four nights it seemed that the brothers had exhausted their conversation but were still unwilling to stop talking. They had to talk about family affairs, national affairs, and world affairs as if the prosperity of the nation and the peace of the world depended on the plans they made. When there was really nothing left to say they would talk again about the things they had talked of before. The whole family liked Kaodee. She was no longer a "young lady" but was a person willing to do anything-she had been trained by the war. She waited on Old Man Chi and Mrs. Tien Yiu and cooked for the whole family. Her cooking was still not very good but she did not let this worry her. Whether she did well or not so well she went ahead with the work, and if this time she did not do so well, would she not do better next time? This was another reason why Yun Mei felt that she must get up-she could not let the guest do everything for her. Even Old Man Chi was moved and forgot his prejudice against the Kuans . Secretly he said to Old Three, "Don't let the guest wait on us; what kind of a way to act!" Old Three smiled but said nothing. The poet, Mr. Chien, was able to leave prison on the seventh day after the day of victory. Old Three decided to give Uncle Chien a small welcome party. Peiping had been quiet after the victory. Rey Tang did not like this silence. He went to talk it over with his grandfather. The grandfather agreed and said urgently, "You must get wine, he likes a drink or two." "Surely, I know a place where I can get wine." Also he discussed with Yun Mei and Kaodee the kind of food they should have. Yun Mei thought that dried soybean curd and peanuts would go well with the wine and would be enough . To cook a meal for the whole party she could not manage; she had not that much money and she had not that much energy. "Good, that will do, Eldest Sister-in-law, and make us some tea." He went to his mother, "Mother, Uncle Chien is coming; you must get up and greet him." Mrs. Tien Yiu nodded. Rey Tang told his eldest brother that they must go together to get Mr. Chien . Rey Shuan of course wanted to go but he also thought of Mr. Goodrich . He spent a whole day trying to find his 5 30

old friend and learned that Mr. Goodrich had been taken a few months before to the concentration camp in Weihsien, in Shan­ tung province. Old Three went to notify Wang the Third, to invite him and young Mrs . Chien both to come to the Chi home. Then he also invited Fourth Mistress Li, Cheng Chang Shun, and all the neigh­ bors in the Little Sheep Fold. The neighbors were as pleased as when they had heard the news of victory. Rey Shuan and Rey Tang went and brought back Mr. Chien. Mr. Chien, except for the clothes on his back, possessed nothing. Leaning with one hand on Old Three's arm he held the hand of his grandson with the other and limped out of the prison gate. Rey Shuan followed behind. Mr. Chien had not been tortured this time when he had been questioned in prison . The Japanese wanted him to surrender and when he refused their "kindness" they stole his grandson and brought him to the prison. Once every day they allowed the grand­ father and grandson to see each other. Mr. Chien knew they were using the child to bring pressure on him : if he would bend his head and surrender, the child would live; if he refused, they would torture the child in his presence. But Mr. Chien had not been worried. He would not lose his temper and so stir them up to make the child suffer at once nor would he say the words of surrender to make the child safe. In his gentle smiling way he accepted things as they came. If the time should come when he really could not protect the child there would be nothing he could do. He would not surrender. What did it matter if one more died in the war even if that one were his grandson? 'Vhen the child had first come into the prison he had cried and made a continuous disturbance. He was crying the first time they brought him to Mr. Chien and the tears were all over his face. He had struck his grandfather on the legs and shouted, "I want my mother, I want my mother." Mr. Chien had patted the child's head gently and said many times, "Be quiet, be a good boy and don't cry." After he had stopped crying and struggling the child asked, "Why have they shut us up here? Why won't they let us go home?'' "No reason ." "Why is there no reason?" "J us t no reason . " After a few days the child had seemed to adapt to the situation and no longer wept and struggled. When he was brought to his 531

grandfather he seemed to be especially glad. He asked his grand­ father many questions-what was war, what was prison, where did the Japanese come from, why did the Japanese come to Peiping? His grandfather would explain gently to the child each question as it came. The grandson asked the grandfather to give him a name. He remembered that his mother had often said that his name would be given him by his Grandfather Chien. Before the child was born, the grandfather had prepared a name for him, Chien Cho-Revenge Chien. But now that the child stood beside his knee he felt that he should not make the child carry such a bitter name through life. The old man asked the child, "What do you think of the word 'revenge'?" The grandson had blinked his little eyes and pretended to think. He could · think how a cat, or a dog, or a cow looked, but revenge -what was revenge? He could not imagine, so it must be bad. He said, "I don't want it." The grandfather apologized. "Good, wait and I will think-I will think of a good name for you." And then one day he had said, "How would you like the name Chien Shan-Chien the Righteous or Good-from the first line of the Three-word Classic I have been teaching you, 'When man was created his nature was good'?" And the child had agreed . The Japanese had at first let the child stay with his grandfather a few minutes only each time but gradually as the grandfather and the grandchild got on better with each other they had length­ ened the time for them to chat, hoping the child would soften Mr. Chien for them . Then sometimes they would take the child suddenly away and he would struggle and weep. Young Mrs. ,C hien and Little Precious stood at the entrance to the Little Sheep Fold and waited for her father-in-law and her son. One could hardly recognize her; she was so thin but her eyes were still very bright and active as if she had put her whole life force into them to find her son. Now that she knew he was coming to her again her eyes seemed to flash fire . Young Mrs. Chien ran forward as soon as she saw the grand­ father and grandson. She swept Little Shan into her arms and held him tightly. She crouched on the ground and pressed her face to her son's face. When they reached house Number One young Mrs. Chien stopped from habit, but Mr. Chien did not even look at the gate and walked slowly past. 532

There was a crowd outside the Chi family gate. They all wanted to run forward whGn they saw Mr. Chien but no one moved, Mr. Chien, their good neighbor, their old friend and hero, wore an old blue, cotton-cloth monk's robe which reached only to his knees. His hair was entirely white and unkempt. His cheeks were deeply sunk and appeared dry and pale. He did not look like their hero but like something covered with the wounds of war. They could not help looking at each other-their own clothes were also shabby, and their own faces were also pale and thin. Then they looked around the Little Sheep Fold and saw that the_ gates were not painted, the walls were peeling, and everything was sad and un­ pleasant to look at. The comedian, Fang the Sixth, lit a small string of tiny fire­ crackers to welcome the hero in the traditional way. Each wanted to be the first to take Mr. Chien's hand but all­ without consultation and as one-gave the priority to Old Man Chi. Old Man Chi took Mr. Chien' s hand in both of his and said only, "You have come back," and had no more to say. He thought of Tien Yiu . Of all in the Little Sheep Fold the one who most resembled Tien Yiu-in age, in height, and in his quality-was Mr. Chien. Mr. Chien held the old man's hand warmly but could say nothing. Old Three, who wanted to make this welcome party as lively as possible, said, "Come, come and have a drink inside the court­ yard." Old Man Chi turned and stood beside the gate to let Mr. Chien go in first and urged him, "Please, please." Mr. Chien indeed wanted a drink. He had made a vow that he would not touch any spirits until the day of victory, and today he must drink some wine. He walked in to the gate and as he walked he greeted Kaodee, Mrs. Tien Yiu, Mrs . Liu, and the others . Old Man Chi waited until all had entered the courtyard and then slowly went in himself. Rey Tang had long ago joined the others but Rey Shuan waited to support his grandfather. After walking a few steps the old man nodded and said, "Rey Shuan, have all the neighbors come? It's a real celebration." There was a smile on the old man's face. "When we celebrate your ninetieth birthday it will be more lively than this," Rey Shuan said. In the Little Sheep Fold the leaves of the locust trees stirred. A fresh wind was rising. ·

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