Summary

Narration describes how Mr. Wu had, ever since his wife’s birthday, left her alone – and how Madame Wu understood the shame and confusion behind his absence. Returning its focus to Madame Wu, narration describes her visits to the various men in her household - first Mr. Wu, agreeing with him that the beloved, pale orchids she had planted in the courtyard of their shared space should be transplanted out and replaced with more colorful peonies. Madame Wu then lets her husband know that Ch’iuming will be coming to him in a couple of days, responding to his angry question about whether she has any jealousy in her with calm assurances of her faith and trust in their relationship – and reminding him of her recent fortieth birthday.

After she leaves, Madame Wu visits Liangmo (telling him to assist Mr. Wu well in his...