THE ENCHANTED TREE. In the palace at Peking an old ash' tree stands; Strange stories are told of this wondrous ash tree, At a dynasty's close-there are heard wailing cries, 'Mid its branches and leaves-when an emperor dies, 1 Huai. This is a very beautiful overspreading tree, the yellow blossoms of which are used as a dye. Its medicinal and other properties are too well known to need recapitulation here. 2 This tree is supposed to be in one of the courts of the palace, and is known by the name of Sheng-yin-mu, "the sounding tree." 3 See Chang-liang's Flute, p. 117. E When a minister true to his country remains, Or a just and good monarch the throne has ascended,— Then the old tree breaks into melodious strains, As if of stringed music with sweet voices blended. Each bright yellow flower golden music distils Drop by drop on the senses of those blessed to hear it : The tree is all music,-its melody thrills Through the hearts of all those who may chance to be near it. Alas! 'tis not often such music is heard, (Will the tree never more its sweet concerts be giving?) Old folks shake their heads, for it has not occurred A proof of bad government in the poet's opinion. THE TWELVE MONTHS MANY STORIES.1 First Month. 'Tis the first month of the new year, My husband is going to the wars ; He goes to sweep the frontiers. The illuminations are without amusement to me. I was preparing his bow and arrows, when I suddenly heard the sound of drums, gongs and uproar in the street. Arranging my husband's baggage, how could I find time to go and look at it? I have made several garments, and have well quilted the coats and jackets. The tears flowed plentifully from my eyes as I was sewing. This song, with several others, was read in English, and a portion of it sung, in Chinese, by the writer before the North China Branch of the Royal Asiatic Society, in Shanghai, on 5th June 1871. The songs in English and Chinese, with the music, were afterwards published in the Society's volume for 1871-2. At parting innumerable sorrows arise, like the tempest arising out of a calm, suddenly to dissever our union. Oh, my husband, we are to be separated! When shall we meet again? Second Month. 'Tis mid-spring; the "Chun-fên,” 1 My husband is going to the wars, and I am very sorrowful. I pour out a full cup of wine, to speed him on his journey. "You go for honour and fame; I am left at home to watch the solitary lamp. I only wish you to soon acquire honour; for when your flag is unfurled, you must be victorious. Listen, husband; send me many letters of your welfare. care of yourself.” When I had made an end of speaking, he mounted into the saddle, and started on his journey. Yet in his heart he was loth to go ! At every ten steps, he nine times turned his head. Both our hearts were full of grief and trouble. 1 Name of the period. Spring equinox, about 20th March. Third Month. 'Tis "Pure Brightness,"1 the third month, The peach blossoms are red, the willows are green, And the appearance of spring is bright and beautiful. My husband is from home; who will visit his ancestors' graves? This I ought to, and will do myself. The "spirit-tablets" of his ancestors are placed in the middle hall. Paper-money must be burnt to satisfy their expectations. In the distress of my heart, I cried to my husband's dead aged parents. "Your son is at the frontiers; oh, protect, and keep all sickness from him!" I then returned to my chamber. • On looking in the mirror, how pallid my countenance was. Although not separated so very long from my husband, yet I have become quite emaciated. Fourth Month. 'Tis the beginning of summer; the fourth month is come! It is neither cold nor hot; this would be pleasant for us, this agreeable weather. 1 About the 5th April. 2 About the 5th May. |