The first bonze gave a chuckle, but rose and went out. The other then got upon the bed, and very gently caressed Mei-chieh.
She pretended to repulse him, but he kissed her upon the lips, and said in her ear:
"If he has fatigued you, I have here some pills which will restore the Springtime of your thoughts."
And he thrust a pill into her mouth, which she could not avoid swallowing. A perfume rose from her mouth into her nostrils, and caused her bones to melt, imbuing her body with delicious warmth.
But, even while thinking of herself, Mei-chieh did not forget the Governor's orders. She marked the head of this new assailant also, saying:
"What a nice sleek old pate!"
The bonze burst out laughing:
"I am full of tender and reliable emotions. I am not like the unmannerly people of our town. Come and see me often."
And he retired.
Meanwhile the Governor had left his yamen by the fifth watch, before the day had yet broken, accompanied by an escort of about a hundred resolute men, carrying chains and manacles.