X. Tsai Ch‘ü

The Tsai Ch‘ü; narrative. The open shamelessness of Wan Chiang in her meeting with her brother.

1 On comes her chariot, fast and loud,
With screen of bamboos finely wove,
And leather bright, vermilion-hued—
Ch‘i’s daughter hastes to lawless love.
To this from Lu the road is smooth and plain;—
’Twas but last night she started with her train.

2 Her four black steeds are beautiful;
Soft are the reins the driver holds. p. 114
The road from Lu is smooth and plain;—
Ch‘i’s daughter's heart its joy unfolds.
Full of complacency is she; nor shame
Abashes her, nor fear of evil name.

3 Broad flow the waters of the Wên,
And crowds of travelers go by.
The road from Lu is smooth and plain;—
She looks around with careless eye.
That many see her gives her no concern;
Her thoughts to her licentious fancy turn.

4 On sweep the waters of the Wên;
More numerous are the travelers now.
The road from Lu is smooth and plain;—
Ch‘i’s daughter shows her brazen brow.
At ease and proud, she holds her onward way,
Careless of what all think of her display.