She herself went to the room where the nurse was, and asked:
"Has our new daughter's mother something to say to us?"
"She is uneasy about the health of your honorable son, and has sent me to see him, thinking that it would be better to postpone the marriage if he were seriously ill."
"I am gratified to receive this proof of her consideration. My son has, in fact, taken cold, but it is not a serious indisposition. As for choosing another day, that is not to be thought of. Our preparations are made, and a delay would involve too great a loss. Furthermore, happiness drives away every ill. The invitations are sent out. We might imagine that your family had changed its intention...."
"At least, can I see the invalid?"
"He has just taken a drug and is asleep. Besides, I have told you that he has caught cold. Are you trying to insult me by expressing a wish to prove my words?"
"If the matter stands thus," the nurse politely made haste to answer, "it only remains for me to withdraw."
"You cannot go in this way. You have not even taken a cup of tea. If you please, let us go into the new room, for my house is all in disorder."
On entering, the nurse observed the excellent arrangement of the young couple's apartment.
"Everything is ready, as you see," said the wife of Liu. "And if my son is not quite recovered after the ceremony, I shall take care of him in my pavilion, until he is able to embark upon his conjugal life."