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.