But we have made
no preparation for the boats and conveyances of our journey. I have
borrowed twenty ounces from my friends. My Lord may take them for
travelling expenses."
In his uneasiness concerning these expenses, he had not dared to speak
of them. He took the money, and was full of joy.
At that moment there was a knock on the door, and the old woman
entered, saying:
"This is the tenth day."
"I thank the ma-ma for recalling the fact to us," he answered. "I was
on the point of paying her a visit."
And, taking up the bag, he poured the three hundred ounces on to the
table. The old woman had not supposed he could succeed.
She changed color, and seemed on the point of gainsaying her word.
So Shih-niang said; "I have stayed in your house for a long time, and
have brought in several thousands of ounces. To-day I am marrying. If
you do not keep your word, I shall commit suicide before you, and you
will lose the money and the girl."
The old woman could find no words to express her feeling. She took the
money in silence, and finally muttered:
"If you mean to go away, you go now. But you shall take none of your
clothes or jewels with you."
Hustling the two young people along, she led them through the door and
shot the bolt.
It was then the ninth moon, and the weather was cold. Shih-niang had
but just risen from bed, and was not dressed; nor was her hair done.
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