Summary

The next morning, after another long and deep sleep, and after breakfasting, dressing, and beautifying her appearance, Madame Wu plans to visit Madame Kang and talk with her about the possibility of her daughter Linyi (the daughter Madame Wu noticed earlier at her birthday feast in Chapter 1) marring Fengmo. Meanwhile, she also hears from Ying that the servants believe that Tsemo had beaten Rulan, who had been heard weeping. She resolves to speak with both of them, but finds that Tsemo has left the house earlier than usual, and that Rulan is sleeping.

After spending two hours inspecting the running of the house, Madame Wu goes to the much more chaotic home of Madame Kang, where she (Madame Wu) skillfully guides the conversation towards the subject of Fengmo and Linyi. Madame Kang is at first excited about the idea, but then reveals her concerns...