Deluded by Prejudice, Xichun Vows Her True Intent; Testing His Counterpart, Baoyu Loses a Kindred Spirit

Baoyu had just spoken out of turn and was at a loss how to cover it when Qiuewen came in and said, “The Master outside is calling Second Master over.” Baoyu was only too glad of the chance to escape and went at once. When he came before Jia Zheng, Jia Zheng said, “I did not call you for anything else. You are still in mourning and cannot conveniently go to school. At home, you must carefully review the essays you have studied before. I have been relatively free these days. Every two or three days, write a few essays and bring them to me to look at, so I may see whether you have made any progress.” Baoyu could only agree. Jia Zheng added, “I have also told Huan’er and Lan’er to review their lessons. If your essays cannot compare with theirs, that will be disgraceful.” Baoyu did not dare say more. He only answered, “Yes,” and stood where he was. Jia Zheng said, “Go.” Baoyu withdrew and happened to meet Lai Da and others coming in carrying several account books. Baoyu hurried back to his own room. When Baochai asked and learned that Jia Zheng had told him to write......