The Marquis of Xiangyang's wife took the painting and unfolded the words to examine them. As the saying goes, one can see a person's character through his handwriting. The handwriting was neat and straight, with straight lines and regular strokes. The Marquis of Xiangyang nodded. Then she unfolded the painting, revealing a landscape painting with a simple composition and appropriate coloring. While not as spectacular as the others, it still showed the artist's open-mindedness.
The Duke's wife, who had been observing the Marquis of Xiangyang's wife, finally relaxed when she saw her nod. In the past, her family had been wavering, but now that Xin Jie'er had become a princess, there were so many high-ranking families she could marry into. She couldn't wait any longer.
Seeing the wife of the Marquis of Xiangyang put down the calligraphy and painting, the wife of the Duke of Guo hurriedly asked, "Madam, how is it?"
The wife of the Marquis of Xiangyang smiled slightly and said, "Of course it is good."
They both knew that the marriage was a done deal. After exchanging a few pleasantries, the Duke's wife hurried away, planning to invite the official matchmaker to propose marriage that afternoon.
By the time Xin Jie'er arrived at the Sheng family, her marriage to the Duke of Qi had already been finalized. Xin Jie'er had already figured it out; it didn't matter who she married. Since her mother approved of the marriage, she didn't need to dwell on it any further. Furthermore, the Duke of Qi's family was taking the marriage very seriously this time. Not only was there a betrothal gift, but even the two live geese—they were truly thoughtful to find in the middle of winter.
The marriage was scheduled for August of next year, a few months later than Sheng Hong's. Thinking of Sheng Hong, Xin Jie'er hoped that Sheng Hong would reply to her letter as soon as possible.
In the past few years, she often went to the Sheng family to visit Sheng Hong, and she also prepared gifts when she returned to Beijing this time. A few days later, the Marquis's wife accompanied Xin Jie'er to the Sheng family.
After being welcomed into the mansion, Xin Jie'er realized that there were guests at the Sheng Mansion. However, they were all acquaintances and frequent visitors, including the eldest lady of the Yu family and the eldest lady of the Meng family.
After Sheng Shu and Yu Jiaxing left, Lin Jiaoniang often visited the Sheng family. Now that the Sheng family's private school was without students, Master Meng Lizhang stayed home. After several years of nursing care, his son Meng Hui had indeed begun to recover and was now almost fully recovered.
Before Xin Jie'er arrived, Xu Wen noticed that Madam Meng was about to say something, but hesitated. Before she could even open her mouth to ask, Madam Cui came over and announced, "Madam, the wife of the Marquis of Xiangyang and Princess Pingning have arrived."
Everyone hurriedly stood up to greet them. After the Marquis of Xiangyang and Princess Pingning entered, they exchanged greetings. After taking their seats, the Marquis of Xiangyang explained their purpose and presented them with Dengzhou specialties.
After a brief exchange of pleasantries, Xu Wen suggested a game of mahjong now that everyone was present. Everyone looked at each other and happily agreed. Xin Jie'er, who had never touched a card before, joined in and watched.
After taking the poker table, the group quickly became familiar with each other. Madam Meng and Xu Wen had known each other for several years, and now they were no longer as polite as before, drawing cards as needed. Madam Xiangyang taught Xin Jie'er while they played cards, and Xu Wen occasionally chatted with Lin Jiaoniang.
By the time it was over, it was already dark. A few people were invited to dinner, and guards were sent back to the mansion. Because of this game of leaf cards, the four of them would often meet up at their respective homes to play cards, which proved to be a relaxing pastime. Xin Jie'er learned the game three times and could even occasionally play a round for the Marquis.
This year, the emperor and empress were not at home, so everyone was spared the need to pay their respects in the palace and attend the annual banquet.
At the last game of leaf cards before the New Year, Madam Yu, Lin Jiaoniang, asked, "Have you heard?" She pointed in the direction of the palace and continued, "The Eighth Princess has been imprisoned."
The wife of the Marquis of Xiangyang nodded and said, "I heard that this matter is related to the northern border."
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