Chapter 21 A Visit to the Post Station
I took the opportunity to go to the post station. Jia Zheng looked very unhappy.
Baoyu, however, was cheerful throughout, appearing to have a good temper.
But he kept referring to "Daiyu", which I found very displeasing to hear.
"Greetings to Uncle. I heard that Daiyu is the most outstanding beauty in Yangzhou. I wonder when I might have the chance to see her."
"My Daiyu cannot see relatives from outside the family in this life. You should have heard of this point long ago."
Baoyu looked somewhat disappointed upon hearing these words.
"Indeed, I must not let a vulgar man like me disturb Daiyu's peace. I was originally unworthy. Being alive is already a great fortune. How could I hope to meet a girl like a fairy?"
After finishing, he lowered his head and went off to brood by himself.
This boy was really... a bit ill.
Jia Zheng glared at him, as if disliking his lack of promise. Only then did Jia Zheng begin to discuss proper matters with me.
It turned out he had only passed through Yangzhou this time on business, but had come specifically to see me in order to seek my assistance in official circles.
His career had not gone well. For many years he had not been put to important use.
Even though Jia Yuanchun was already a lady, The Emperor's attitude toward their Jia Household was worsening year by year.
In the past they could still remember their ancestors' hardships, but now there was already an intention to fade them out.
"I heard that Ruhai, you will return to the capital soon. The Emperor values you highly. As your elder brother, I am truly comforted."
Jia Zheng was worthy of being a hypocrite. Even when asking for help, he had to put on airs.
"Speak plainly."
I got straight to the point. I really had no patience left for him.
Jia Zheng was taken aback for a moment, then seemed to gather all his courage to speak to me.
"If you return to the capital, could you say a few good words for me before The Emperor and help pull the relatives along? I would be deeply grateful."
"So that's what this is about."
I smiled and agreed verbally.
"Anything else?"
Jia Zheng let out a breath of relief. "Mother at home misses Min'er and wants to see Daiyu. If you return to the capital, I hope you can return to the household to catch up on old times."
"Jia Min and I will naturally pay a visit upon returning to the capital, but Daiyu really cannot. You also know this child's health."
"But I heard that Daiyu is in good health and can even hit people."
This must have been from that gossiping Xue Pan.
"That's not the case. Daiyu does not hit people. A delicate young lady hitting someone? It's a misunderstanding."
Jia Zheng quickly smiled and then turned his gaze to Baoyu.
"That must be my mistake. Speaking of which, it's quite a coincidence. Our children both carry the character 'yu' in their names. There is truly a connection. If only these two children could meet once, perhaps they could even form a closer bond..."
The following words I could guess without thinking. They acted as if they hadn't heard that she could not see outside relatives.
"No need."
I interrupted. Hearing it made me angry inside.
"I have other matters, so I won't disturb Second Brother any longer."
I stood up and left, leaving no room at all.
What kind of people. When one is dead they think about our family's money and look down on Daiyu as an orphan girl.
Now seeing me in a good position, they want to come forward to form closer ties. They are not worthy.
Bah!