Chapter 65 Chapter 62 Cheating, Eating and Cheating Represent False Revolutionary Crazy Crazy Crazy Rows and Real Plague

Before Xiang Zicheng arrived in Beijing, a secret message was sent to Zaifeng, the regent, to persuade him to give amnesty to the party members and stop such unnecessary enmity.The regent was willing to listen, and indeed he issued an edict: "All criminals arrested in the previous revolution will be released on bail. Among them, those with outstanding academic performance and talents will be hired by the court." Zhang Renpu: The three criminals who plotted to bomb the title can be released on bail.But before he is released, he must be brought up to the court, and he must be told of the court's generosity and generosity, and tell them to study in peace in the future, and not to make trouble again.Zhang Renpu led the decree back to the Ministry, and immediately raised the hall to propose three people to give lectures.This mention doesn't matter, but it frightened Huo Shanming.He thought he was going to follow in Tang Wohu's footsteps, his face changed terribly with fright, and he was a little out of breath when he spoke to Biren and others.On the contrary, Biren was in a hurry, saying, big brother, you are afraid for a while, and you will not be able to get over it!Hurry up and put on handcuffs and locks for us, so we can go to the official!One sentence reminded Shanming, he was in a hurry, panicked, put the shackles on hastily, and the three of them were supported by the class guards until they reached the second hall.The three of them stood in the hall, still refusing to kneel down.Fortunately, Zhang Renpu didn't care about these details, but said to them with a pleasant face: "Now the regent prince has an order to release the three of you. The three of you can get bail yourself, and you can be released in court. There is only one thing, you committed crimes. The felony, the prince pardoned all of them regardless of the previous suspicions. With such high heaven and earth, it is not much worse than Yao and Shun. It makes sense that you should kowtow to Que and thank the prince for his kindness. I think the revolutionary party must also have a conscience. I don't know what you three think? If you think so, please follow my advice." Zhang Renpu's words stopped the three of them.If you want to kowtow, you will really lose your identity as a revolutionary; if you don't kowtow, you will repay your hatred with kindness and save the lives of three people, so you cannot be regarded as a benevolent person.For those who are kind, to be stubborn and rude, but also to lose the status of a hero, this is a real dilemma.In the end, it was Bi Ren who was quick-witted and eloquent, and resolutely said: "Revolution is one issue, and grievances are another issue. We bow down today, and we worship the benevolent person, not the regent. No matter who it is, We should all thank him for his kindness to us, and we should not raise objections just because he is the regent. The regent can repay evil with kindness and save our lives, so we should thank him. As for the revolution or not, that is another matter. If the wind, the horse, and the ox don't match each other, why should we hesitate?" Bi Ren's words really moved Wang and Bai, and they knelt up and kowtowed three times at the same place.Zhang Renpu was overjoyed to see him.Because it was difficult for him to handle this kind of errand, and after he was released according to the rules, he had to give the order face to face.When handing over the decree, you must report to the regent the released prisoner, how grateful you are, how you kowtow to thank, how you swear an oath to God, from then on to cleanse one's heart and mind, reform one's mistakes, these are all proper articles.Helpless, the Revolutionary Party is stubborn by nature. If you want to make him say a soft word, you can't do it at all, let alone kneel down and kowtow?If they say something unpleasant, will they still be open?Even if it wasn't so serious, they refused to even say a word of thanks, and when they met the regent later, they were still lying, or telling the truth?To lie is to deceive the emperor, and to tell the truth will definitely make the prince unhappy, isn't this a dilemma?Now these three people actually broke the rule and kowtowed to their superiors to express their thanks, and when they saw the regent's order later, it was of course easy to say something.So Zhang Renpu was very happy, and actually praised them a few words.At this time, Hu Biren's elder brother and his ordinary friends all knew this information, and they came to the Ministry of Justice to write a guarantee letter so that Biren could be taken home.Biren said to everyone, you have to protect, protect three people, if you want to protect me alone, I would rather stay in prison for a few more days than go out.What he said turned into a problem, because the businessmen were timid, knowing that their plan to blow up the regent was a revolutionary case, and they were a little afraid of getting involved, and no one dared to guarantee it.Biren's older brother, Hu Yuren, specially hired an antique shop as a guarantee.The name of this shop is Qingshangzhai, and it contains the shares of the Hu family, so the boss dare not say no, but he only protects one person, such as Wang and Bai, he is absolutely unwilling to protect it, but the Bi people do not agree.After a long time of trouble, the boss just shook his head and refused, saying: "I protect Young Master Hu, he has a family, a business, a house and a land. If there is a mistake in the future, his brother will come and take responsibility. The two gentlemen, I am not from Beijing, and I have no property, no relatives and friends in Beijing, if there is an accident, they will run away without a trace, and I will have to take the lead in a revolutionary lawsuit, who can protect this matter!" Hu Yuren heard people say that it makes sense , I can't show my master's style, forcefully oppressing people to be guarantors.Later, it was Huo Shanming who came to the rescue.He opened a money and grain store outside the Qihua Gate, the name was Shanxiang, and the surname of Changkui was Zhuyin. He was from Shandong and had a very forthright temperament.Shanming invited him here, and when he talked about the matter, Qu Zhuyin said with great emotion: "As long as the owner is willing to release the guarantor, my surname Qu will never interfere with it." , Bai and the three were released together.Shanming also donated 300 yuan to Wang and Bai as expenses after they were released from prison, and repeatedly entrusted Qu Zhuyin to put them in the shop temporarily, and all food and beverage expenses were allowed to be paid by the shop. .

When Hu Biren was released from prison, he wanted to invite Wang and Bai to his home, but his two elder brothers disagreed, saying: "Our family is originally a family of officials, and we want to bring in the revolutionary party and recruit many detectives out of thin air. Surrounding the gate all day long, asking people to watch, what kind of decent? You should stop messing around, and just stay at home for a few days honestly, and you don’t even have to go out of the gate. Those who are dubious friends, it is better to stay away from them. Hiding is the way to go." Biren would not listen to this, and said to his two brothers: "You don't have to be afraid, it's best for the three of us to live separately, you live your life, I live mine, and you can save it If something happens, you will be hurt." According to his elder brother and sister-in-law, he still thinks of brotherhood, seeing that he is too young to bear the separation of the family, but his second brother and sister-in-law, who heard the word separation, strongly agree .Immediately invite many friends to make a list of the real estate furniture, and please distribute it according to three shares.It was Biren's turn to share five thousand silver cash in cash. A four-fold tile-roofed house with a cross courtyard was located in Xicaochang.In addition, in the countryside of Tongzhou, seventy-eight acres of land were divided into nine parts.Clothes, gold beads, soft goods, and furniture, all assigned to his name, are worth about four to five thousand taels of silver.Fortunately, Biren didn't argue at all, he wanted what was given to him, and he didn't talk about long and short.In fact, his two older brothers got more share than him, and if he didn't know about it, his two older brothers shared it secretly.Relatives and friends who are willing to talk more, besides, Kanbi is a child, let alone committing to him.Therefore, in a muddleheaded manner, he completely divided his ancestor's eunuch.After Biren separated, he felt very happy.What he meant was not like a prodigal son who thought he could spend freely after the division, but because he couldn't stand the family tyranny.After the separation, of course they will stand on their own, and will no longer be coerced by the two older brothers, just like a bird leaving its cage.He was allocated the house in Xicaochang, which was originally leased to others, and the monthly rent was 30 yuan. After he allocated it, he wanted to come back and live by himself.It was Shanming who planned for him, saying: "Your finances are too much to be studied. Even if you marry your sister-in-law by yourself, you are only two husband and wife. There are only four people with a manservant and a maidservant. You Xixi There are more than 20 houses in Caochang. Is it usable? Instead of leaving more than half of them idle, why not rent them out. My house spans the courtyard and has nine rooms. You and your wife live there, and they are very useful. And you are away from home The mother is very close, which saves the old man from missing his daughter and having to go out of the city by car. You don’t live in vain, you need four yuan for rent every month, and you have twenty-six yuan for the rent of Xicao Factory, which is almost enough for you and your husband Isn't it better than living in your own house?" Biren suddenly realized, and said: "After all, elder brother is experienced and sophisticated, much better than a bookworm like me. I will follow your words and ask your servants to help me tomorrow. I transported the furniture first, and then painted the room to prepare for work. It's a pity that the elder brother can't come out, otherwise, wouldn't it be more fulfilling and more lively!" Shan Ming said: "It doesn't matter if I come out or not, there is an old lady At home, everything will be taken care of for you. As long as after passing through the door, you husband and wife are harmonious and beautiful, and you will give more attention to the old lady, Brother Yu will naturally be grateful." Bi Ren said: "This is what it should be, no matter what. Brother Lao asks you." After the two parted, Bi Ren first went to see his mother-in-law to explain Shanming's intentions.The old lady was naturally very happy, and said: "I will send two male servants to help you tidy up later. I don't need any furniture for the time being. In my courtyard, all the wooden furnishings are ready-made, and I can lend them to you first. Mounting paint, etc., I will send someone to call tomorrow, and it will take three or two days to make it look brand new. October 19 is an auspicious day, and I have already asked someone to choose it. You don’t have to worry about anything, just wait to be the bridegroom Go ahead." Hearing this, Bi Ren was really indescribably grateful.After saying goodbye to his mother-in-law, he returned home and told his two elder brothers about the relocation and marriage.Uncle Yuren found out a little bit of conscience, he felt sorry for the third child, and said: "When you get married, theoretically, my brother should handle it for you, but now I rely on Yue's family. I always feel sorry in my heart. How about it, all the wedding banquets and other expenses, I'll pay for it all, don't ask Yue's family to take care of it." Biren originally valued loyalty, and it was inconvenient for him to stop him when he heard his brother say this, so he just said that it would be better for him to do it on his behalf, lest outsiders talk about our brother's lack of loyalty.It's just that you might as well be frugal about everything. In this time of war and chaos, there is no need to spend more money.Yu Rendao: "Although I say that, my family's elders were priests. It's too simple, and it's inevitable that relatives and friends will laugh at me. All things should be done according to your discretion. Now there are only ten days left before the wedding, and two days later. , your sister-in-law and I will go to arrange everything first. You have to spread the post beforehand. Almost all old relatives and friends have to be invited, so as not to be picked on in the future. Those new friends you make, as far as I think, you can not invite them , so as not to call the detective's attention." Bi Ren heard his brother say this, although he was unhappy, but it was always a good intention, and it was inconvenient to refute him, so he only agreed vaguely.

The next day, he still went to the Shanxiang grain store, talked to Wang Dujuan and Bai Chongguang, and told him that he would get married sooner or later.Chongguang said with a smile, "Congratulations! We must have drunk our wedding wine, of course please." Du Juan said, "We don't need to drink his wedding wine." Chongguang said, "That's wrong! Biren It's our comrades, comrades marrying wives, we should congratulate, why don't we drink wedding wine?" Du Juan said: "Don't you understand? The two of us have a signboard of a rebellious party on our heads. It is Huo's fault when we get out of prison that day. The elder brother and shopkeeper Qu generously pledged to rescue us from the siege. I'm afraid we won't be able to get out today. Why should we be dignified in front of others, so as to trick Bi Ren's younger brother? Could it be said that friends are good, and they must be in these superficial details Do you have to deal with it?" A few words brought back Chongguang's joy.Bi Ren nodded at the side. In the final analysis, Brother Wang has deep experience and deep thoughts, so he will repeat what Yu Ren said yesterday.Du Juan smiled at Chongguang: "What do you think?" Chongguang said: "People like us live in Beijing for a long time. If we want to go out of Beijing, we will be in danger as soon as we walk to the station. If you don’t believe me, try it.” Zhongguang said: “According to what you say, we two will die of old age and fail to make it to Beijing.” Du Juan said: “Don’t I'm busy, I've already made up my mind. Before we leave, we have to talk to Lao Xiang first. He agrees to let us go, and we have to form a companion. Then we can go from Beijing to Tianjin, and from Tianjin to Shanghai. There is no obstacle. If he does not let us go, we have to make another idea and ask someone to try to unblock it. I have already thought of this unblocking person, and he will definitely help us. Moreover, this person is in the project. Zicheng is very popular in front of his eyes, and he can really say the same thing, I just need to trust him, everything will work." Chongguang hurriedly asked who is this person?But Wang Dujuan refused to say, you will know when it comes to it, so don't ask for it for the time being.I am not afraid of Biren, but of you.You have always been open about your words, if the word leaks out and Lao Xiang finds out, not only will we not be able to leave, but it may even bring trouble to others.Chong Guang smiled and said: "You are too worried! Even if I say it, it may not reach Xiang Zicheng's ears. Even if it reaches Xiang Zicheng's ears, it may not affect Qian Qian. Why do you want to do this?" What about needless caution?" Du Juan shook his head a few times before answering, and said, "You don't know that Xiangzicheng is really a descendant of Cao Cao, suspicious and jealous. And he has many eyes and ears, and he is always there for him. It is a detective of mine. I have been with him for many years, and he is always considered a heart-to-heart old man. Because of one incident, he almost lost his life. After all, this gentleman has a good wife and a good time. Not only did he not When encountering a setback, it turns misfortune into blessing. Otherwise, it would be unimaginable."

Bi Rentong Chongguangquan asked him what was going on?Du Juan said: "It's a long story. My old fellow, Xiangzicheng's English secretary, has been with him for seventeen or eighteen years. Later, Xiangzicheng replaced the Governor of Zhili with Beiyang Minister. The candidate's qualifications are still being filled in by the Superintendent's Office. Of course, the old man is unhappy. He thinks that he has been with Gong Bao for nearly twenty years, and he has made a lot of effort. How can he feel better when he is on an errand? It is also his luck that comes from time to time. When he returned to the mansion from the Superintendent's Office that night, his wife prepared dinner and waited for him to come back to eat. This old gentleman, three After drinking a glass of white wine, he complained, saying: "Today, there are more than 20 Chinese and English official affairs in the supervision department. I read them and answered them. From nine o'clock in the morning to ten o'clock in the evening, I have a meal in a row." They didn't eat any real food. Their red ideas, eating flower wine and playing mahjong all day long, don't do any serious business, and they will be promoted at that time. Zhou Laosi was actually promoted to Tongyongdao by being a son-in-law. Wang Da The beard also mended the Jinhe Road. It's a pity that I have been with Kung Pao for almost twenty years, but I have never seen what the seal of Daotai looks like." The lady said: "Don't say that, Kung Pao is the most ungrateful person. Don't Seeing that there is no shortage for you, maybe sooner or later you will be sent to the customs.' He snorted and said: "The customs? How can it be my turn." The lady said: "That is hard to decide. Kung Pao His temper has always been the person he valued the most, the more he tortures you, the more he will make you unhappy. As long as you can bear it, at some point, you will be promised an exceptional promotion. You just wait slowly, don't be impatient .' After listening to his wife's words, a certain gentleman was a little relieved in his heart, and said: "Your words are also very reasonable. Originally, Kung Pao is a great talent, and he pays attention to every detail. Don't look at him casually. In fact, there is a lot of balance in a square inch. Who can and who can't Whoever does his best and who doesn't, he has already remembered the account in his heart clearly." The lady said: "Since you understand, just hold back your temper and serve Gong Bao well, so don't think about it wildly." The husband and wife, but Talking in the boudoir, even the maids and servants were not in front of them. Unexpectedly, the next morning, three cannons rang out in front of the mansion, followed by a crowd of people shouting: "Congratulations to a certain gentleman! You have been promoted to the customs road!" At this moment, a certain gentleman is still there In the dream, I was woken up by my wife, and said with a smile: "Get up quickly, you really have passed the customs road!" A certain gentleman rubbed his eyes and said, "Why bother, you made fun of me again." The lady said anxiously: "How can you make fun of me?" It’s true!’ Immediately afterwards, the family sent a red notice. A certain gentleman took it and saw it said: “A certain adult in your mansion: According to the notice of the constitution of the governor, a certain person is acting as an agent for the Tianjin Customs Road.” The next book is "Happy news and continuous promotion". When a certain gentleman saw it, he seemed to be dreaming, and asked his wife: "Why are you so unpredictable? Could someone report to you?" The wife said: "Whoever reported to me, if I knew it earlier, you would be better off." I would have known earlier. Get up quickly and go to the upper court to thank the committee!' A certain gentleman got up in a hurry, developed a happy money, a crown and a belt, and went to the upper court to thank the committee. Old Xiang always got up very early, and he was the first to hear about this gentleman. A certain gentleman kowtowed and thanked him, and Old Xiang was full of joy. He sat him down, and then said with a smile: "Your elder brother has been with your brother for almost twenty years. In terms of qualifications and achievements, he should have filled your vacancy long ago. Just because it is mine." arm, iI want to let you go to a foreign office, and there is no suitable person to take over all the foreign negotiations, so you have lost several opportunities because you have followed the rules again and again.This is what I feel sorry for you.After all, in my heart, I have not forgotten you for a moment.You complained a lot last night, this is where you can't hold your breath.In the end, I also blamed my negligence. It is rare that your wife, although she is a female, can understand righteousness, and she is worthy of being a virtuous housemate.It just happened to be a coincidence, Lao Zhang from Jinguan Road was promoted to Jiangxi Division, and I was the first to think of you.Finally, Madam Zun's words are not in vain.Instead of thanking me, your elder brother might as well go home and thank Mrs. Zun. Before Lao Xiang finished his speech, Mr. Mou had already sweated through his heavy clothes, and was so frightened that he collapsed on the chair, unable to move.Old Xiang saw that he was so frightened, he didn't think it was funny, and said: "Your brother, hurry up and get ready to receive the seal, and you must be more cautious when speaking later."As for your part-time job in the supervisory office, you can't go there for the time being. In a word, it's just too much trouble. A certain Jun Nuo Nuo repeated, but did not dare to say another word.When I went back to the mansion and met my wife, I stuck out my tongue first and said, "It's so dangerous!"The fault is that you can speak, I'm afraid that all the company officials will be lost, and you still want to be a customs officer! Madam was at a loss and didn't understand what he meant.A certain gentleman described it in detail.The lady said in a low voice, "What a strange thing!"Our husband and wife are talking in a secret room, and there is no one around, how could Gong Bao know?Can he still count? A certain gentleman said, "How can he count?"I heard before that he kept ten or twenty spies, and all of these people would fly around, come and go without a trace.He often flew in to the homes of his neighbors to inquire about the news.I didn't believe it before, but it looks like this, it's not bad at all.We must be cautious when we speak in the future. 'The above is a secret history of a gentleman from our hometown.Think about it, what a great man Lao Xiang is!We made a mistake to pass him this level, dare to leave Beijing city? At this time, Chongguang also realized that Wang Dujuan's words were good, so he discussed how to proceed. Dujuan said, "Don't be impatient. I've already made up my mind. I'd better ask our folks."He can speak well in front of Lao Xiang, and Lao Xiang still has a place to use us at this time.I'm sure nine out of ten times it will work. Bi Ren said, "I hope this is the best." "

After the three of them broke up, it was time for Hu's house to celebrate.The house was full of guests and friends, and all relatives and friends came to congratulate.Only Wang Dujuan and Bai Chongguang didn't show up for a day.Biren was very surprised and said: "Why didn't brothers Wang and Bai come here? Are you really afraid that my brother will not like it, so he avoided it on purpose?" He hurriedly sent a young boy to the Shanxiang grain store to invite him.Not long after the boy left, Qu Zhuyin, Shanxiang's boss, came with him.Congratulations first, and then report to Hu Biren, saying that Wang and Bai had left Beijing for Tianjin early this morning, and Xiang Gongbao sent four guards to escort them, and also sent 2,000 yuan as a transfer fee.Before leaving, Mr. Wang returned three hundred yuan to our boss and one hundred yuan to the servants in the store.Another 200 yuan was sealed, saying that it was for Young Master Hu as a congratulatory tribute, and asked me to pass it on, and asked me to bring a letter to Young Master Hu, saying that there was no time to write a letter in a hurry, and they will definitely succeed in going out of Beijing this time. of.Around the first month of next year, I will be able to meet Young Master Hu.Please cherish the future and wish the newlyweds.After Qu Zhu chanted, he took out a red jacket from his bosom, and handed it to Bi Ren with both hands.Bi Ren took it over to look at it, and saw that it read: "Happy respect, two hundred yuan. Foolish brothers Wang Dujuan and Bai Chongguang pay homage." Bi Ren handed it to the accountant and opened it to see that it was indeed a foreign bank note of 200 yuan.Biren asked again and again: "The two of them are going here, where are they going? Who are they planning to go to? Didn't they tell you before they left?" Qu Zhuyin said: "They went to Shanghai first. Who will go, but never told me." They were talking, only to see a person approaching, interjected and asked: "You two said, but are you two gentlemen Wang Dujuan and Bai Chongguang? Are these two gentlemen true?" They are indeed great heroes, great heroes, but it is a pity that the imperial court did not reuse them and let them go to other provinces. It is a pity that they went to Shanghai, and they probably voted for Sun Yat-sen instead of China for self-improvement. Seeing this person come over to talk hastily, I feel very uncomfortable, because this person is a Baoyi Bannerman, who specializes in serving as lackeys for relatives and nobles, and as a detective for the government, there is no one in Jiucheng who does not know him.This person's surname is Guang, his name is Zhi, and his style name is Boping.Throughout the year, when to burn what kind of incense, when to serve what kind of offerings, sandalwood white quick addition, what kind of ambergris, all added to the spices.In a year's work, the net reimbursement is only 160,000 to 70,000 yuan.The secretary of the house of internal affairs gets two tenths, the eunuch in charge of incense gets three tenths, and the spice manufacturer gets five tenths.In fact, Hua Hanchong and Wen Yixuan's major incense shops are responsible for producing this kind of spice, and the total cost is only more than 10,000 silver, so there will always be a surplus of 150,000 to 60,000.As for offerings, there are many more truths. At most, they are New Year’s offerings, such as meat offerings, vegetarian offerings, and fruit offerings. There are all kinds of colorful offerings, all of which should be prepared as usual.This sum of expenses cost more than 200,000 yuan.The Ministry of Internal Affairs and the eunuchs get 6/10, and their manufacturers can only get 4/10.After all, if these two items are put together, they can earn almost two hundred thousand denarii a year.This task is undertaken by more than a dozen schools in turn in the Guang family.Boping's father was once a time, and the time limit for one time was only one year.Although there are more than 200,000 silver left, how can he treat it as a big chew in his family, and the banner man is not good at managing money. After four or five years, he spent it all.It will be another seven or eight years for him to be an errand in this field. When this is not enough, life will be very sad.Fortunately, Boping is very shrewd. He stays outside all day long, currying favor with a group of princes and sons, holding his brother up, eating, drinking and having fun.He will also ask people for official claims, run errands, poach doors, and go to court, all of which can be profited from, so he has a good face.He is also good at singing operas and often performs at the gates of various houses. Therefore, he has contact with Xunbeile, Taobeile, General Fu and General Tong.It happened that the end of this year was the day when he was going to pick up a job. He was running around all day and was doing liaison activities, so he could take over smoothly at that time, so as to avoid any troubles in the future.So these days, a lot of money is spent.But the revolution in Wuhan shook the whole country with a thunderbolt.Where in the Qing court is there still a place to burn incense and offer offerings?Therefore, Guang Boping felt very sad. I am afraid that if the Qing court made a mistake, his family's errands would be cut off from then on.He spends all day listening to news from the south, and when he hears that the revolutionary army has lost a battle, he is overjoyed.This day happened to coincide with the Hu family having a wedding. He came to congratulate him, and overheard Bi Ren talking to Qu Zhuyin, so he immediately approached him and chatted up a few words, meaning that he wanted to find out the news of the south. So I went to the palaces to report.Bi Ren knew what he was like, so he immediately stopped talking.No matter what he asked, he was just obedient, without saying a word.When Boping touched this soft nail, he felt very unhappy. He was so angry that he didn't even have a meal, so he slipped away and went to Enwang's mansion to find the second master Fu.

As soon as the carriage arrived at the gate of the mansion, he heard a person calling him: "Where is Boping going?" He looked up and saw two people jumped out of the carriage, one was Heng Shifeng and the other was Wen Boquan.Who do you know this Wen Boquan is?It turned out that he was also a bachelor among the bannermen.His ancestors served as vice capitals, and his father served as a magistrate.He gave birth to two brothers. His first name was Boquan, and his younger brother was Zhongjiao.Although they are compatriots of the same mother, their temperament and character are very different, and there is no similarity.Since he was a child, Bo Quan has been fond of being in the company of gangsters, eating, drinking, whoring, gambling, and smoking opium. It is his job, needless to say, and he also set up traps, cheating people, and all kinds of lawless activities. come out.His grandfather's two generations of eunuchs had been squandered by him, and he was still spending time in Beijing all day long, with a group of princes and sons, doing everything.While making friends with relatives and nobles, he also had to contact the Democratic Party.In the first year of Xuantong, when the representatives of various provinces petitioned the National Assembly, he was also one of the representatives. Therefore, he knew a lot of the second and third members of the Democratic Party.Ever since the Wuhan Uprising, he has been using this issue of extortion, traveling around various palaces, claiming that he can speak of the Descendants' Party, willing to volunteer to go to Shanghai and Hankou, meet members of the Democratic Party, tell their interests and interests, and make them submit to the imperial court. The Revolution can be wiped out completely without a blow or a blow.All relatives and believers thought it was true, and everyone pooled 3,000 yuan for him, and sent him out of Beijing to talk about the Democratic Party.This gentleman went to Tianjin and spent less than 20 days there. He spent all the 3,000 yuan. He didn't even see the face of the Democratic Party. He only brought back a lunatic.This lunatic's surname is called Tianxia, ​​why is he called such a name?Because his surname was Guan, he was originally from Manchuria, and he suffered from mental illness since he was a child.He said that Yao and Shun were the official world at the beginning, and it was changed to the family world in Xia Yu, and now it is about to become the official world again.If the Qing Dynasty wanted to surrender to the world, it must be given to me, so it was named Guan Tianxia, ​​and it was said that there would be ninety-five points in the future, so I took this name myself.His parents, wife, and brothers were all terrified, saying that this boy was going to rebel, and that he would be charged with exterminating his family in the future, and immediately forced him to change his name, but he didn't change it.Later, when he was in a hurry, he changed his surname, added a bamboo prefix to the official character, and named him Guan Tianxia.Since he took this name, the princes and relatives of Beijing, as well as people with a little knowledge in the Eight Banners, all paid attention to him.Unexpectedly, after careful investigation, he is indeed a lunatic, talking nonsense all day long, who is good at cursing the street, but has no other skills at all.However, since he was a child, he followed his father's post, studied for a few more years, picked up a pen, and wrote a few sentences that seemed to make no sense, which was enough to inspire him.Therefore, in the newspapers in Beijing and Tianjin, they often show off the limelight.

Wen Boquan met him by accident when he went to Tianjin this time.Talking to each other about the Democratic Party, Guan Tianxia said: "I don't talk about other things. If you want to talk about the Democratic Party, you really came to grandma's house. I have been close to the Democratic Party since ten years ago. Sun Wen and I are Brother Baimeng. He is eight years older than me, and I call him Second Brother. Huang Keqiang and Song Yufu are all my younger brothers, and the rest of the second and third roles all call me Uncle, just a late-born junior. You Since you want to contact the Democratic Party, it is best to ask me to be a consultant. I will introduce it for you and give you advice. You will definitely not suffer." Bo Quan heard him bragging about this bullshit, and he didn't ask whether it was true or not. Pulling it to Beijing is good to scare a group of relatives and nobles, so as to extort money.The two of them were determined to take advantage of each other, so the more they talked, the more speculative they became, and they immediately asked Guan Tianxia to move to his own inn, where they could eat and drink together, and provided him with pocket expenses.These two were from dudes' backgrounds, and they squandered the three thousand yuan casually.Boquan discussed with him: "We have to go back to Beijing. As a representative sent by the Democratic Party, you have been in touch with me these days to no avail; I have to invite you to come to Beijing with me, meet the princes and relatives, and negotiate with them face to face. .If you have the chance, you can rip them off. A large amount of money is knocked out, and the two of us add up to five. You see, the weather is cold, and you are still wearing a woolen jacket. A change of season. This time in Beijing, the two of us are talking about cross talk, one talking, the other holding, as long as the holding is complete, a large amount of money will not be in your hands. You must be more cautious, don’t Show the face of a lunatic, if you show your flaws, you don't need to sing this play." Guan Tianxia said: "You can rest assured. Don't listen to my name as a lunatic. When it's time to get down to business, I'm afraid Zhuge Liang will fight with his tongue. Confucianism, I can’t say anything about it!” The two discussed it and took the morning train back to Beijing the next day.After getting out of the car, Bo Quan led Guan Tianxia home together.There are only two broken rooms in his family, and there is not even a mat on the kang.His wife, Fu Shi, was still wearing single clothes and was shivering with cold. When she saw her husband coming back, she asked, "Where have you been? You didn't face your face for a month, and you stuck your wife and children to the south wall." Fortunately, it was the second master who sent thirty catties of miscellaneous noodles, or else all the bones would have been starved. I heard from the second master that you knocked 3,000 yuan from others and ran to Tianjin the next day. Why don't you go to Tianjin first? When you come back, why don’t you leave us 30 yuan? It’s not that poor. When you come back today, you’ll always have foreign money on you. Quickly take out a few yuan and redeem the padded clothes for me and the child first. Two pieces. Otherwise, I’m going to freeze to death.” Bo Quan felt embarrassed when his wife said such a thing in front of the world, and immediately lost his temper, cursing: “You bastard wife! If you want money, it’s not enough to give you as much! Why do you have to send ready-made cotton clothes to the pawnshop, you should freeze to death.” Hearing what he said, the wife spat viciously in the face and cursed: “Fart! Shit! How much money did you give me in total this year? Not only did I not see you, I asked for forty yuan from my natal family, but you stole more than twenty yuan. You took all the cotton clothes of our children and adults I pawned it and exchanged it for mutton, but stared at two pairs of dog eyes and asked me why I pawned it! I pawned it out of greed, didn’t I?" Bo Quan wanted to take his wife back to prevent her from saying bad things again. Unexpectedly, this set is even more ugly.Seeing that the force was useless, he had to change it to be soft, and he greeted his wife deeply, saying that the wife should forgive me, and you should not say a few words.When the wife saw him like this, she was embarrassed to say anything, so she pulled back and said, "You should take out the money, so I can prepare breakfast! Could it be that the friends who came with him also made people starve?" Boquan opened the leather bag, I took a look and saw that there were only a dozen yuan left in it, and they were all zero cents. I grabbed a dozen or so coins, handed them to my wife, and said, "Eat ready-made ones. You can order a box from the pork shop and bake them for three minutes." A catty of flatbread, two pieces of tofu, and a bowl of soup are enough for our family.” Fortunately, buying food in Beijing is beautiful and ready-made, and it takes less than an hour to have all the food and vegetables ready.

Boquan accompanied Guan Tianxia, ​​finished eating in a hurry, and discussed where to go first.Boquan thought for a while and said, "Let's go to find Xing Beizi first. He has a simple mind and is easy to talk. As long as he is bluffed, the old Enwang's test will be easy. After seeing Xing Beizi, go to Seeing Xun Baylor, Xun Baylor is the least timid, you can't help but be scared, you can speak loudly, don't worry about him not falling into the trap. It's just that you are too ugly, you have to rent a few square clothes to wear on your body, and you can also be strong Facade. Otherwise, when you arrive at the gate of the palace, those vicious dogs will block the way and won’t let you pass, even if you have Su and Zhang’s tongue, you can’t see your face, and you can’t explain it.” The two went to the rental shop together. Two squirrel fur coats and two double-breasted squirrel jackets, which cost two yuan and eighty cents a day, will be compensated at the market price if they are burned and dirty.You Boquan found a insurance company, just put it on, hired two rubber cars, and went all the way to Enwang's mansion.At this time, the front of the mansion is very quiet, and there is a great potential to be a bird.The two got out of the car and walked straight inside.The guard at the gate recognized Boquan, so he let him in without stopping him.Arriving at the first gatehouse, which is called the guard's office in the mansion, several guards in charge of the gate are gambling in the house.Bo Quan came in to greet them. These people were all familiar with Bo Quan, so he immediately stopped gambling, and said with a smile, "Master Wen, when did you come back? The young prince asked about you yesterday." Bo Quan hurriedly took out two films. , Said: "Thank you, please reply for us, just say that I want to see the young prince with the representative, and I have a confidential report." The guard said: "Please wait in this room, both of you, our young prince is here The sculptures are being tuned in the back garden. He is willing to see him or not, but there is no certainty. Even if he sees you, he will probably see you after he collects the sculptures." Boquan said: "Please go up and go back to him, and you must see me." The guard He ran in with the film, ran out after a short time, and said with a smile: "Sure enough, I have answered your words, and he will meet you right away. Please meet me at the carving field on the grass in the back garden. There are more than 20 styles there. It's very lively." Bo Quan led Guan Tianxia and followed the guards to the back garden.After twists and turns, they came to an open space. When they looked up, they saw twenty or thirty people forming a circle, and Xing Beizi was standing in the middle of the circle.I saw him wearing a gold-rimmed felt hat, a blue satin leather jacket, blue satin leather pants, an apricot-yellow crinkle waist scarf, and blue satin full-style double-stiletto shoes. Air bombs.The onlookers applauded unceasingly.Bo Quan came with the guards, but he didn't dare to rush over to pay respects, for fear of shocking Mr. Bei, he couldn't bear the stretcher.管天下本来有精神病，来的时候怀着一团高兴，本想见了这些王爷崽子大吹大擂，好发泄发泄他胸中的经济，却没想到见了面，竟不能交一言。再加以兴贝子这种打扮，这种神气，他见了认定是失了贝子的体统，必须当面教训他一回，才消得胸中的气闷。因此也不等侍卫去回话，也不等伯泉来介绍，一个人挺身向前，站在兴贝子眼前，把手一举，说：“呔！载兴听着！”“呔”字才开口，两个雕，不约而同地向半空飞去。载兴正在调得高兴，贸然被这一吓，把两个最得意的雕全吓跑了。一抬头，不觉勃然大怒，说：“什么人！左右给我着实地打！”他这一声，那些玩雕的把式一拥而上。管天下本来长得身量很矮，又兼他脖子是歪的，嘴巴子仰着，仿佛是一座擎打的架儿。那些人如饿虎一般跑过来，先打他嘴巴子。可怜他歪着脖子，转不过来，光这一面，足足吃了二十几个锅贴。打得管天下狼嚎鬼叫。伯泉忙跑过来拦住众人，给他解围。兴贝子看见伯泉，便大声问伯泉道：“这个冒失鬼，混账东西，是你带进来的吗？”伯泉只得认不是，连说：“爷不要生气，总怨我一时疏忽，带他进来，把爷心爱的鸟儿全吓跑了。爷不必着急，回头我亲身到雕市上，替爷买两架好的来。爷先消消气儿，咱们谈正事要紧。”伯泉这几句话，自认为立言得体，哪知倒把这位贝子爷给招恼了，气哼哼地问道：“你说什么？先谈正事！难道我调雕，不是正事吗？你骗我三千块钱，跑到天津，连一封报告信也没有，如今冒冒失失地跑回来，又带着一个什么代表？难道立在我眼前的，就是代表吗？凭他这种神气，也配给革命军当代表？革命军要果然派他这种代表，真是乌龟拉车，兔子驾辕，未免太可笑了。你趁早不必来唬我。告你说吧，爷是出过外洋的人，什么场面没见过？什么人物没会过？你随便抓一个赶来，假充代表，硬敢向我府里领，真真可恶已极。还不快快给我滚蛋！再赖着不走，我把你两个一齐送警察厅。哼哼，不要脸！”伯泉万没料到，这位贝子爷竟自大发雷霆，迎头撞了这大一个钉子。有心等他们消消气儿再奉承几句，好设法转还，偏偏这一群雕把式，正恨他两人打破了爷的高兴，一个个揎拳挽袖，势将用武，瞪着眼睛骂道：“穷孙！爷叫你们滚出去，还不滚吗！”说着便上来两个，一个揪住伯泉的辫子。管天下早已剪了发，没有辫子可揪，那一个便揪着他耳朵，脚不沾地，就全给拉到花园外边去了。伯泉看这形势，知道今天决然无法挽回。好在这些王爷崽子的脾气，倒是不念旧恶，别看他今天大发雷霆，恨不得把你吞下肚去，明天便云消雾散，见了面仍然是喜笑颜开。伯泉是架哥儿架惯了的，自然明白这种诀窍，所以他依然满面堆笑地跑回侍卫处。管天下被人家打得腮帮子浮肿多高，瞪着眼，噘着嘴，歪着脖子，随伯泉来至侍卫处，口口声声只埋怨伯泉骗了他：“我在天津时候，有多么自在。你偏偏要把我拉到北京，代表没有当成，先白挨一顿苦打。你非赔偿我的损失不可！要不然，我明天下南京去，寻孙大总统，叫他给我报仇雪恨。将来北伐军到了京城，先把你一家老小枭首示众，问你一个侮辱代表的罪名。”伯泉听他信口开河，心说不好，这是什么地方，他如此胡言乱语，倘然叫老王爷知道了，说我私通乱党，吃不了还得兜着走呢。想到这里，不敢在侍卫处久坐，伸手拉着管天下的衣袖，便一直跑出府门，连头也不曾回。

出了恩王府，方才问管天下说道：“你怎么倒埋怨起我来呢？好好的一件事，被你这冒失鬼搅了个稀糟。你难道没长着眼睛吗？少王爷正玩得高兴，你却横着膀子跑过去，把他心爱的鸟儿全给惊飞了，这事怎能怨他闹脾气呢？”管天下哪里肯服，说：“我是民党代表，他应当迎接我，待上宾之礼，才合体统。我们进到园中，他不但不理，反倒调弄雕，这分明是看不起我们。我理应出头教训他几句，他反倒喝令下人打我，似这种东西，真是亡国贱种。你不挺身出来说一句公道话，也就罢了，怎么反倒捧架他，派我的不是，这也未免太难了。”伯泉听他这样说，不觉从鼻孔里笑了一声，低声道：“我一个人的管大爷！你这民党代表，是谁派的啊？怎么认起真来，也太笑话了。彼时要不是我出来解围，说了许多好话，他们一顿拳头就把你打死了。饶我救了你的性命，你反倒说许多不情理的话，世界上还有好人走的路儿吗？”管天下瞪着眼睛，说：“你说什么？他们敢打死我！你问问我孙二哥能答应吗？剥不了他的皮！哼哼！”伯泉笑道：“你孙二哥虽然厉害，但是远水救不了近火。当时他打死了你，也不过臭一块地。”两人是越说越僵，几乎要动起武来。伯泉一想，这事不妥。他本是一个疯子，我要同他在马路上打起架来，他嘴里不定说些什么。如今这北京城中，侦探四布，倘然被他们捉到官里去，我是有口难分诉。何况项子城正与旗人作对，寻毛病还寻不着呢，我为什么要向虎口里送，难道活得不耐烦了不成。想到这里，连忙把话拉回来，说：“管大哥，不要生气了。千错万错，总怨小弟的错。已过的事，也不要说了。我想耽误了许久的工夫，你肚里一定饿了，咱们寻一个小馆子，前去喝三杯，一醉解千愁，你想好不好呢？”管天下本是著名白吃猴，只听见有人请他，无论什么事，也可以不问了。立时把阴沉沉的脸化为旭日和风，连说：“好好好！我真饿了，咱们这就去吃。”但是到哪里去呢？伯泉一想，我带着这个疯子，千万不可到大馆子去。一者他有神经病，到了那里，任着性儿胡要菜，说不定十块二十块，我拿什么给人家？再者他是信口胡说，在大馆子里边，人多耳杂，倘然被侦探听了去，眼前就有是非，这是万万去不得的。想到这里，便对管天下说：“咱们一壁喝酒，一壁还得谈些秘密，人多的地方是万万不能去。据我想，眼前不几步便有一个小馆子，并且这个馆子虽然不大，做出来的菜却十分可口，咱们何妨照顾照顾他呢？”管天下忙问道：“你说的可是隆福寺街的遭瘟吗？”伯泉拍手道：“英雄所见，大略相同，足见你也是一位吃学大家了。”

遭瘟这个馆子，本书前文已经表过，确是北京城独一无二的一个特别饭馆。他这馆子里，既不预备鸡鱼，又不预备海味，只炒一点家常菜，还得客人自己买肉交给他炒，他连猪羊肉全不预备。但是这样的穷馆子，在北京那样阔的地方，为什么出名呢？一者是他烹调得法，滋味与别家特别不同；二者是他搭着好街坊，有两处能充分供给他材料：一处是便宜坊烧鸭铺，无论鸡鸭猪肉，生的热的，俱都现成；一处是白魁羊肉馆，有现成的肥羊肉，并且有煮熟的羊肉汤。凡客人到遭瘟吃饭，总是先叫跑堂倌到便宜坊切一两卖烧鸭，再杂以熏鸡、酱肉、肥肠、小肚之类。怎么叫一卖呢？便是两吊大钱的。两吊大钱，合现在二十个铜子，在当初便买一大碟子烧鸭。到了如今，只怕四毛大洋，也买不到如许之多。由这上便可证明，今昔的生活程度了。爱吃羊肉的，叫堂倌到白魁买两吊钱带汤的羊肉，羊肉可以下酒，剩下的汤子，或作清卤，或作浑卤，拿他拌面吃，非常的可口。喜吃家常菜的，买一点生猪羊肉，叫他灶上，随便炒一两样厚饹钯、粉条子，以及各种青菜，于家常滋味之中，别具一种清而不腻的逸致。所以北京城中，越是大宅门里的阔人，越喜欢吃它。因为平日油腻厚味已经吃厌烦了，一旦改改口味，便觉清美异常。日积月累，把他这馆子捧起来了。 伯泉领着管天下走进隆福寺前，一直到四边路南，踏进了遭瘟的门。举目观看，忽见一个人蓦地站起来，大声招呼道：“文老大、管二哥携手同行，敢是账头有钱，来买一醉吗？”伯泉一见此人，不觉倒吸一口凉气，心里说，我今天真是走倒霉运，怎么这许多宝贝，全叫我一个人遇着了。你道这个咬文嚼字的是谁？原来在旗人中大大有名，他也是天潢一派，满清的宗室。在同光年间，满人中有一位大名士，名叫宝竹坡的，因为收了江山船的船娘做妾，自劾去职，潦倒终身，以诗酒自放的，便是此公的父亲。据说，他确是那位船娘生的，名叫盛元，字世音。虽系庶出，但因为他父亲既是名士，母亲又是佳人，自在胎孕之中，便受了名士毒，生下来就带三分放浪不羁之气。及至五六岁时，宝竹坡便教他读书识字，真个是聪明绝顶，一目十行，十二三岁，便把十三经读遍。宝学士又教他读文选，学习著作诗文。他下笔便不俗，而且专好诗赋，只是不肯学习时文。他父亲说这才是我的肖子，因此便命他专心于诗词歌赋，以及昆曲传奇之类。他到了十七八岁，便无一不精。作出来的诗赋，完全学汉晋六朝，造诣很深，决非仅得皮毛者可比。而且笔下非常的快，真是倚马万言，无不藻彩纷披，格律精细。似这般才调，不要说是旗人，便放在汉人中，也要算难得的才子了。只可惜美中不足，有一种天生的缺陷。别看他学问手笔这样好，除此之外，却一无所能，甚至三个加五个的数目，他全算不清楚。他生平有一宗癖好，就是贪杯中之物。从早晨起床，直到夜半睡觉，总是杯不离手，手不离杯。他所饮的，就是京东烧锅的高粱白酒。除此之外，别的酒无论女贞、陈绍，以及各种药洒，推而至于外国的香槟、白兰地、威斯格、葡萄红，种种名酒，他是一概不喝。并且他喝酒时候，也不用什么鲜美的菜做下酒之物，只需有一个铜子的咸果仁，他便能喝上一天。至于吃饭，更不讲究了，什么猪食狗食，他全能一样地吃。他父亲做了一辈子名士，并不曾积下钱。还是当年在浙江学政任上，剩了两万多银子，全数在船娘手中。罢官之后，多亏这位船娘善理家政，拿这笔银子放债生息，又置了几所小房子赁给人吃租，因此宝竹坡在世时候，倒是衣食不愁，终日带着他这位宠姬，在京东京西，以及北京城各大寺院，诗酒流连，享了一世的艳福。后来船娘先死了，他老先生因悼亡之余，过于伤感，便也下世去了。那时候盛元才十九岁，已经娶了妻室。他的妻室，确也是旗族中的世家，因为羡慕他父子的学问名望，居然把小姐许给盛元。过门之后，夫妻便时常反目。因为这位小姐生长于豪华之家，饮食、衣服全是奢侈惯了的，如今娶过来，见婆家样样全不如娘家，心里便存着老大不痛快，以为误了她的终身。虽然这样，但要夫婿的人才果然出众，到底还能得一种相当的安慰，哪知她这位夫婿，肚子里的才学诚然不错，只是外表太难了：身量不足四尺，要横着量却有二尺多，直然同唱戏扮出来的武大郎差不了许多；而且长了一个大脑袋，仿佛是玉河头号的西瓜；脖子却又非常的短，好像这颗头颅就连在肩膀上；两只很小的眼睛，却配了一个大蒜头的鼻子，两只大扇风的耳朵。一看他这种神气，就令人作三日呕。因此上，这位小姐益发添了一种不快之感。娶过来不到一年，公公婆婆就全死了。发丧之后，当然是这位主家婆料理家务。好在盛元自有酒喝，一切事全不过问，任着尊夫人的意思，想怎么处理便怎么处理。尊夫人既然有了全权，先把外放的款子一律收到手中，大肆挥霍起来。不到半年工夫，便花光了。第二步便是卖房子，先尽着外租的房子卖，不到半年，又卖光了，只可再卖他家住的房子。把所有卖房的钱，尽量挥霍。先租大房子住，钱花光了，给不起人家房租，只可再迁到小房子去住。这时候，家中的银钱产业，是一无所有了，只可叫打鼓儿的，出卖字画古玩。一来二去，索性连衣服家具，也一文不值半文地全卖掉了。盛元是自始至终不问，每天只要给他预备下二斤白酒，就算是天下太平。后来轮到卖着吃，连酒也预备不起了，这位先生便拿家里的东西换酒喝。始而拿小件值钱的，他父亲保存的册页手卷，全是当时的一班名士的书画，他拿出去到酒铺里，赔上许多好话，才换得四两白酒。后来小件的东西全换光了，他便搬取木器，一对花梨椅子，匀两次换五斤白酒，不够他三天喝的。他的尊夫人见家中产业报罄，便跑回娘家去，一去不归。这位先生从此连家也没有了，便终日席地幕天，无拘无束。好在旗人中全知道他是一位名士，写作俱佳，凡是作寿联、作挽联，作寿序、作寿诗、作祭文、写四六信，全一律地照顾他。只把他抓了来，预备二斤白酒，一包花生，你看罢，下笔万言，倚马可待。交卷之后，便立刻把他赶出大门，多一刻也是不能容留的。这样看，做主人的未免太无情了，其实却不怨人家。因为他的性情，实在不能叫人亲近。你如果多留他一刻，他便大撒酒疯。嘴里不定说些什么。这还不算可恶，最可恶的，他看见人家妇女，便要作诗。作出来的诗，猛看虽然香艳，骨子里淫秽不堪，他直然把良家妇女，当作娼妓一般，用笔尖随便戏弄。请想，谁家还能容他多坐一刻？因此他无家可归，无人肯留，白天在天桥小酒馆中闲坐，晚夜便钻入火房子住上一宵。北京有一种鸡毛小店，别号又叫火房子。从前是六个大钱睡一夜，后来改为铜元两枚。只在地上铺一领很大的芦席，也没有铺盖，怕冷的赁一个铜子的鸡毛，随便抓给你几把，便是被褥，所以外号又叫作鸡毛店。盛元白天蹲天桥，晚夜住鸡毛店，过他这名士的生活，已经是好几年了。旗人中寻他作诗文的，必须到天桥去抓他。今天要已经有了酒钱，你再掼上元宝，也请他不动了，必须等到明天，他的酒钱光了，一抓便来。诗文写在纸上，酒喝在肚内，另外预备五十枚铜元，给他掖在腰里，他也不等人赶，连头也不回便去了。以上所说，便是盛元的历史，同他的生活状况。

文伯泉同管天下，到遭瘟来吃，怎么就会撞见他呢？原来他才从拉中堂府出来。拉同住在东安市场金鱼胡同，因为恩王的侧福晋五十正寿，拉中堂想送八幅泥金寿屏。这寿序的文字，必须典丽堂皇，非精于骈文的阔手笔，是万万不能胜任的。他的幕府作了两篇，拉中堂看着，全不可意。后来是管家替出主意，说中堂何不把盛疯子寻来，倒许比师爷们作的高明。一句话提醒了拉同，立刻吩咐家人去寻盛元。家人跑到天桥，见他正在小酒馆门外来回打旋。心说巧极了，一定是没过酒瘾。过去一把将他揪住，说盛先生快随我来，盛元直着眼睛问道：“有酒喝吗？”家人连说有有，把他扶上人力车，如飞一般跑到金鱼胡同，把他拉进宅去销差。中堂见他到了，立时笑逐颜开，吩咐给他预备酒饭。上好的白酒，由着他性儿喝足。盛元一壁喝着，拉中堂一壁向他述说：“为老恩王侧福晋五十正寿，想要送八幅泥金寿屏。只是寿序的立言，很难得体。今天请求你大笔，代作一篇。”盛元道：“中堂幕中，难道连一个会作寿序的人也没有吗？”拉同笑道：“作了两篇，但是我看着全不甚好。”说着，便把两篇寿序的底稿递给盛元亲看。盛元略略地看了几行，便用手“哧哧”地撕碎，向地上一掼，骂道：“放屁放屁！放狗臭屁！这样的文字，也配送上王府，挂在银安殿上，岂不是笑话吗！”拉中堂知道他的脾气，笑道：“自然没你作的好，你快喝吧，喝完了快快地作。”盛元喝得有八成醉了，蓦地跳起来，跑到书案前，抓起一支羊毫笔来。案上有中堂自用信笺，拿过几十张来，铺在写字台上，吮毫濡墨，笔不停挥。写完一张，再续一张。几十张信笺，不到一点钟工夫，全写光了。最末一张写完，把手中笔向案上一掷，哈哈大笑。拉中堂在一旁看他，直然是发疯。左右伺候的人，忍不住要笑出来了。心说，在中堂眼前，谁敢这样放肆，这人真成了怪物了。拉中堂见他写完了，从头一张将次序律好，这才注目细看，真是一看一击节。不但矞皇典丽，而且声韵铿锵，一千多字的大四六，自始至终，无懈可击，并且恰恰合乎王福晋的身份，不能移转到他人身上。看完，不觉惊喜过望，说真真名下无虚，使王子安复生，也不过如此！随手交与管家，说回头打电话给刘状元，请他来写寿屏。又向盛元道：“世音，你有这好才情，为什么要做一个酒徒呢？你今后便住在我家中，我每天管你酒喝，一个月送你五十块钱，你乐意不乐意呢？”谁知盛元听了，只是摇头冷笑，说：“算了吧，你家的地方小，容不开我。我是幕天席地、四海为家的人，你休想拿我当死龟看待。拿酒钱来，咱们改天再会。”说罢便伸出手来，向拉中堂要钱。拉中堂听了，真是出人意料，闻所未闻。不觉皱眉道：“你这人太不识抬举了！凭我以中堂身份，当面约你，每月还赠以厚薪，你为何竟说出这样话来？”盛元哈哈大笑道：“你们做中堂的人，奴颜婢膝，专会逢君之恶。转过脸来，便招权纳贿，罗掘民膏，有什么可稀罕的？也值得腼面骄人？我盛元，生平最恨做官的，有钱的，一脑袋官迷，一身铜臭，只见着比自己官大的就磕头，见着比自己钱多的就下跪，把有学问有文章的清贫士子，看得一个钱不值。自己还要说：我有钱，就能够奴隶他；我有钱便是学问，便是大章；他没钱，便算不得学问，算不得文章；果然有学问，有文章，为什么不去发财呢？似这种守财奴，是天地间第一种贱货，除非那不要脸的假名士，甘心当奴才，受他的侮辱。我盛元是真名士，大才子，你无论做多大官，有多少钱，也休想在我眼前卖弄，我眼皮里向来不夹这些东西。我但凭文章换钱，沽酒买醉，自在逍遥，天不蜷，地不局。不要说每月五十块钱，你便拿你的宰相来换取我的身份地位，我也决不肯换。快快给我笔资！我要走了。你这相府，我是多一刻也不愿留的！”拉同听他发了这一套议论，气得胡子乱翘，却又没法子奈何他，赌气从家人手中要了两枚银元，亲自交给盛元。说你走吧，不要污了你名士的清白！盛元接过钱来，哈哈大笑，连头也不回，便一直走出府门去了。左右的幕客家人，看了这种情形，全说这人真是疯子，可惜中堂一番美意，却抬举这样的人，岂不是笑话吗？又有说，这种人是天生乞丐的命，哪有福气住在中堂府里，还把他烧死了呢！ 不提众人纷纷议论，却说盛元拿了两块钱，心中盘算，我到哪里去喝呢？忽然灵机一动，这里离隆福寺很近，隆福寺街的遭瘟，已经有三年不曾去吃了。我今天这两块钱，必须全数花在遭瘟。想到这里，脚下一用劲，不大工夫，已经来到了。进去独据一副案头，把两块钱向桌上一拍，说：“堂倌，我喝这两块钱的！有什么好酒好菜，自管放量向桌上摆，今天不醉无归。”堂倌笑道：“我们小馆子，没有这种规矩。我把两块钱给你存在柜上，吃完了再算。”随把钱存起来，问他喝什么酒？盛元笑道：“一斤烧刀子，分两壶盛；便宜坊买一卖烧鸭，一吊钱小肚；白魁买两吊钱烧杂碎，外带老汤。喝完了酒，羊肉汤勾卤拌面，你再外买二百钱咸果仁。”堂倌答应下去，不大工夫，俱都买齐，一律摆在桌上。盛元自斟自饮，正在喝得高兴，文伯泉同管天下一脚踏进来。管天下小时候，从宝竹坡看过文章，盛元同他是师兄弟，两人同庚，管天下大他半年，因此盛元称他二哥。文伯泉同宝家也是世交，却比盛元晚一辈，招呼盛元大叔。今天无意中撞到一处，伯泉心捏一把汗，因为这两个人全是疯子，然而宗旨却绝对不同：管天下假充民党，时时想革满清的命；盛世音自小时受他父亲的教训，专讲忠君报国。别看他疯疯癫癫，你要说满清君主一个字的不好，当时他就能翻脸骂人。这二人同在一处吃洒，岂不是极危险的一种事情？伯泉心里明白，想把他两人岔开。哪知管天下看见盛元桌上满满地摆着酒菜，哪里还肯放松。盛元也斟了一碗酒，先敬管天下，说：“二哥你真好时气，平日小弟也做不起东，偏偏今天有两块钱的进益，今天就遇着了你，咱们得尽量地喝一回。”说着把酒递过去。管天下一饮而于，也不用筷子，伸开手，便抓烧鸭子向嘴里填。说到底是便宜坊烧的，另有滋味，比天津全聚德的鸭子可强得太多了。一卖烧鸭，被他三填五填，便填个精光，嘴里仍一再喊着：“再切两卖