第093回 At the Almsgiving Monastery a Princess Is Chosen by an Embroidered Ball

第093回Chapter 93

卻說寺僧天明不見了三藏師徒，都道：「不曾留得，不曾別得，不曾求告得，清清的把個活菩薩放得走了。」正說處，只見南關廂有幾個大戶來請。Now, when daylight came and the monastery monks found that Sanzang and his disciples were gone, they all said, “We could not persuade them to stay, could not bid them farewell, could not make our entreaties; we simply let a living bodhisattva walk away.” As they were speaking, several wealthy householders from the southern suburb arrived to invite them.眾僧撲掌道：「昨晚不曾防禦，今夜都駕雲去了。」眾人齊望空拜謝。The monks clapped their hands and said, “We failed to keep watch last night, and during the night they all mounted the clouds and departed.” The visitors together gazed skyward, bowing in gratitude.此言一講，滿城中官員人等盡皆知之。Once this story spread, every official and inhabitant in the city came to know of it.叫此大戶人家，俱治辦五牲花果，往生祠祭獻酬恩不題。The wealthy households were instructed to prepare the five sacrificial animals, flowers, and fruit, and to offer them at the shrine of the living saint in gratitude for his grace; of this we shall say no more.

却说寺僧天明不见了三藏师徒，都道：「不曾留得，不曾别得，不曾求告得，清清的把个活菩萨放得走了。」正说处，只见南关厢有几个大户来请。众僧扑掌道：「昨晚不曾防御，今夜都驾云去了。」众人齐望空拜谢。此言一讲，满城中官员人等尽皆知之。叫此大户人家，俱治办五牲花果，往生祠祭献酬恩不题。

卻說唐僧四眾餐風宿水，一路平寧，行有半個多月。Sanzang and his three companions, meanwhile, ate in the wind and slept beside the waters; their journey was peaceful, and more than half a month passed.忽一日，見座高山。Then one day they saw a lofty mountain.唐僧又悚懼道：「徒弟，那前面山嶺峻峭，是必小心。」行者笑道：「這邊路上將近佛地，斷乎無甚妖邪，師父放懷勿慮。」唐僧道：「徒弟，雖然佛地不遠，但前日那寺僧說，到天竺國都下有二千里，還不知是有多少路哩。」行者道：「師父，你好是又把烏巢禪師《心經》忘記了也。」三藏道：「《般若心經》是我隨身衣缽，自那烏巢禪師教後，那一日不念？Sanzang again grew fearful and said, “Disciple, those ridges ahead are steep and rugged; we must be careful.” Wukong laughed and said, “Along this road we are drawing close to the Buddha’s land. There can certainly be no great fiends or evil spirits, so set your mind at ease, Master, and do not worry.” Sanzang said, “Disciple, though the Buddha’s land is not far away, the monk at the monastery said the capital of Tianzhu was two thousand li distant, and we still do not know how much farther we must go.” Wukong said, “Master, you seem to have forgotten the Heart Sutra taught you by the Chan Master Wuchao yet again.” Sanzang said, “The Prajnaparamita Heart Sutra is the robe and alms bowl I always carry with me. Since the Chan Master Wuchao taught it to me, on what day have I failed to recite it?那一時得忘？When have I ever forgotten it?顛倒也念得來，怎會忘得？」行者道：「師父只是念得，不曾求那師父解得。」三藏說：「猴頭，怎又說我不曾解得？I can recite it even backward—how could I have forgotten it?” Wukong said, “Master, you can only recite it; you never sought from that master an understanding of it.” Sanzang said, “Monkey, why do you again say that I have never understood it?你解得麼？」行者道：「我解得，我解得。」自此，三藏、行者再不作聲。Do you understand it, then?” Wukong said, “I understand it, I understand it.” After that, neither Sanzang nor Wukong spoke another word.旁邊笑倒一個八戒，喜壞一個沙僧，說道：「嘴巴，替我一般的做妖精出身，又不是那裡禪和子聽過講經，那裡應佛僧也曾見過說法。At their side Bajie doubled over laughing, while Wujing was delighted. Bajie said, “You loudmouth! You were born a monster just as I was; you are no Chan monk who has heard the scriptures expounded, nor have you ever seen a Buddhist monk preach the Dharma.弄虛頭，找架子，說甚麼『曉得』、『解得』。Putting on airs and striking a pose, you talk of ‘knowing’ and ‘understanding.’怎麼就不作聲？Why have you suddenly fallen silent?聽講，請解。」沙僧說：「二哥，你也信他？Let us hear your discourse—please explain it.” Wujing said, “Second Brother, do you believe him too?大哥扯長話，哄師父走路。Elder Brother was merely spinning out talk to coax Master onward.他曉得弄棒罷了，他那裡曉得講經？」三藏道：「悟能、悟淨，休要亂說。He knows how to wield his cudgel, and that is all; how could he know how to expound scripture?” Sanzang said, “Wuneng, Wujing, do not talk nonsense.悟空解得是無言語文字，乃是真解。」Wukong’s understanding lies beyond speech and writing; that is true understanding.”

却说唐僧四众餐风宿水，一路平宁，行有半个多月。忽一日，见座高山。唐僧又悚惧道：「徒弟，那前面山岭峻峭，是必小心。」行者笑道：「这边路上将近佛地，断乎无甚妖邪，师父放怀勿虑。」唐僧道：「徒弟，虽然佛地不远，但前日那寺僧说，到天竺国都下有二千里，还不知是有多少路哩。」行者道：「师父，你好是又把乌巢禅师《心经》忘记了也。」三藏道：「《般若心经》是我随身衣钵，自那乌巢禅师教后，那一日不念？那一时得忘？颠倒也念得来，怎会忘得？」行者道：「师父只是念得，不曾求那师父解得。」三藏说：「猴头，怎又说我不曾解得？你解得么？」行者道：「我解得，我解得。」自此，三藏、行者再不作声。旁边笑倒一个八戒，喜坏一个沙僧，说道：「嘴巴，替我一般的做妖精出身，又不是那里禅和子听过讲经，那里应佛僧也曾见过说法。弄虚头，找架子，说甚么『晓得』、『解得』。怎么就不作声？听讲，请解。」沙僧说：「二哥，你也信他？大哥扯长话，哄师父走路。他晓得弄棒罢了，他那里晓得讲经？」三藏道：「悟能、悟净，休要乱说。悟空解得是无言语文字，乃是真解。」

他師徒們正說話間，卻倒也走過許多路程，離了幾個山岡，路旁早見一座大寺。While master and disciples talked, they covered a considerable distance, passed several ridges, and soon saw a large monastery beside the road.三藏道：「悟空，前面是座寺啊。Sanzang said, “Wukong, there is a monastery ahead.你看那寺，倒也：Look at it—it is quite a place:

他师徒们正说话间，却倒也走过许多路程，离了几个山冈，路旁早见一座大寺。三藏道：「悟空，前面是座寺啊。你看那寺，倒也：

行者看得是「布金禪寺」，八戒也道是「布金禪寺」。Wukong made out the words “Bujin Chan Monastery,” and Bajie likewise read them as “Bujin Chan Monastery.”三藏在馬上沉思道：「『布金』……『布金』……Sitting on his horse, Sanzang pondered, “‘Bujin’—‘Gold-Paved’...這莫不是舍衛國界了麼？」八戒道：「師父，奇啊！Can this be within the borders of Shewei?” Bajie said, “How remarkable, Master!我跟師父幾年，再不曾見識得路，今日也識得路了？」三藏說道：「不是。I have followed you for years and never known you to recognize the road, but today you know where we are?” Sanzang said, “That is not it.我常看經誦典，說是佛在舍衛城祗樹給孤園。I have often read the sutras and recited the sacred texts, which say that the Buddha stayed in Prince Jeta’s Grove, Anathapindika’s Garden, at the city of Shewei.這園說是給孤獨長者問太子買了，請佛講經。It is said that the elder Anathapindika asked to buy this garden from the prince so that he might invite the Buddha to preach.太子說：『我這園不賣，他若要買我的時，除非黃金滿布園地。』給孤獨長者聽說，隨以黃金為磚，布滿園地，才買得太子祗園，才請得世尊說法。The prince said, ‘My garden is not for sale. If he wishes to buy it, he may do so only if he covers the entire ground with gold.’ Hearing this, the elder Anathapindika at once used gold as paving bricks and covered the whole garden, and only then did he obtain Prince Jeta’s Grove and invite the World-Honored One to preach the Dharma.我想這布金寺莫非就是這個故事？」八戒笑道：「造化，若是就是這個故事，我們也去摸他塊把磚兒送人。」大家又笑了一會，三藏才下得馬來。I wonder whether the name Bujin Monastery comes from that very story?” Bajie laughed and said, “What luck! If this truly is the place from that story, let us go and feel around for a brick or two to give away.” They all laughed for a while, and then Sanzang dismounted.

行者看得是「布金禅寺」，八戒也道是「布金禅寺」。三藏在马上沉思道：「『布金』……『布金』……这莫不是舍卫国界了么？」八戒道：「师父，奇啊！我跟师父几年，再不曾见识得路，今日也识得路了？」三藏说道：「不是。我常看经诵典，说是佛在舍卫城祗树给孤园。这园说是给孤独长者问太子买了，请佛讲经。太子说：『我这园不卖，他若要买我的时，除非黄金满布园地。』给孤独长者听说，随以黄金为砖，布满园地，才买得太子祗园，才请得世尊说法。我想这布金寺莫非就是这个故事？」八戒笑道：「造化，若是就是这个故事，我们也去摸他块把砖儿送人。」大家又笑了一会，三藏才下得马来。

進得山門，只見山門下挑擔的，背包的，推車的，整車坐下：也有睡的去睡，講的去講。Upon entering the mountain gate, they saw beneath it men carrying shoulder poles, men with packs on their backs, and men pushing carts, sitting there with their whole loads: some had gone to sleep, while others sat talking.忽見他們師徒四眾，俊的又俊，醜的又醜，大家有些害怕，卻也就讓開些路兒。When these people suddenly saw the four travelers—some exceedingly handsome and others exceedingly ugly—they were all somewhat frightened, but moved aside to clear a path.三藏生怕惹事，口中不住只叫：「斯文，斯文。」這時節，卻也大家收斂。Fearing trouble, Sanzang kept calling, “Observe decorum, observe decorum.” At that, everyone restrained himself.轉過金剛殿後，早有一位禪僧走出，卻也威儀不俗。Once they had passed behind the Hall of the Guardian Deities, a Chan monk came out to meet them, a man of no ordinary dignity.真是：Truly:

进得山门，只见山门下挑担的，背包的，推车的，整车坐下：也有睡的去睡，讲的去讲。忽见他们师徒四众，俊的又俊，丑的又丑，大家有些害怕，却也就让开些路儿。三藏生怕惹事，口中不住只叫：「斯文，斯文。」这时节，却也大家收敛。转过金刚殿后，早有一位禅僧走出，却也威仪不俗。真是：

三藏見了問訊。Sanzang greeted him with joined palms.那僧即忙還禮道：「師從何來？」三藏道：「弟子陳玄奘，奉東土大唐皇帝之旨，差往西天拜佛求經。The monk hastily returned the courtesy and asked, “Where have you come from, Master?” Sanzang replied, “This disciple is Chen Xuanzang. By command of the emperor of the Great Tang in the Eastern Land, I was sent to the Western Heaven to worship the Buddha and obtain the scriptures.路過寶方，造次奉謁，便借一宿，明日就行。」那僧道：「荒山十方常住，都可隨喜；Passing through your honored region, I have presumed to pay my respects and ask lodging for a single night; tomorrow we shall depart.” The monk said, “This humble mountain monastery belongs to the faithful of all ten directions, and all are welcome to share its hospitality;況長老東土神僧，但得供養，幸甚。」三藏謝了，隨即喚他三人同行。how much more so a holy monk from the Eastern Land! It would be our great good fortune merely to make offerings to you.” Sanzang thanked him and immediately called his three disciples to follow.過了迴廊香積，徑入方丈。They passed the covered walk and the monastery kitchen, and went directly into the abbot’s quarters.相見禮畢，分賓主坐定。After exchanging the proper courtesies, host and guests took their appointed seats.行者三人，亦垂手坐了。Wukong and the other two also sat with their hands respectfully lowered.

三藏见了问讯。那僧即忙还礼道：「师从何来？」三藏道：「弟子陈玄奘，奉东土大唐皇帝之旨，差往西天拜佛求经。路过宝方，造次奉谒，便借一宿，明日就行。」那僧道：「荒山十方常住，都可随喜；况长老东土神僧，但得供养，幸甚。」三藏谢了，随即唤他三人同行。过了回廊香积，径入方丈。相见礼毕，分宾主坐定。行者三人，亦垂手坐了。

話說這時寺中聽說到了東土大唐取經僧人，寺中若大若小，不問長住、掛榻、長老、行童，一一都來參見。When word spread through the monastery that scripture-seeking monks from the Great Tang in the Eastern Land had arrived, everyone, great and small—whether permanent resident or passing guest, elder monk or young novice—came one by one to pay his respects.茶罷，擺上齋供。After tea, a vegetarian meal was laid out.這時長老還正開齋念偈，八戒早是要緊，饅頭、素食、粉湯，一攪直下。While the elder was still reciting the opening verse before the meal, Bajie was already ravenous, and buns, vegetarian dishes, and vermicelli soup all went straight down together.這時方丈卻也人多，有知識的，讚說三藏威儀；The abbot’s quarters were now crowded: those of understanding praised Sanzang’s dignified bearing,好耍子的，都看八戒吃飯。while the fun-loving watched Bajie eat.卻說沙僧眼溜，看見頭底，暗把八戒捏了一把，說道：「斯文。」八戒著忙，急的叫將起來，說道：「斯文斯文，肚裡空空。」沙僧笑道：「二哥，你不曉的。Wujing’s eyes darted about, and when he saw all the staring faces, he secretly pinched Bajie and said, “Observe decorum.” Bajie grew flustered and cried out urgently, “Decorum, decorum—but my belly is hollow!” Wujing laughed and said, “Second Brother, you do not understand.天下多少斯文，若論起肚子裡來，正替你我一般哩。」八戒方才肯住。There are many refined gentlemen under Heaven who, if you speak of what lies inside their bellies, are exactly like you and me.” Only then did Bajie agree to stop.三藏念了結齋，左右徹了席面，三藏稱謝。Sanzang recited the closing prayer, the attendants cleared the table, and Sanzang offered his thanks.

话说这时寺中听说到了东土大唐取经僧人，寺中若大若小，不问长住、挂榻、长老、行童，一一都来参见。茶罢，摆上斋供。这时长老还正开斋念偈，八戒早是要紧，馒头、素食、粉汤，一搅直下。这时方丈却也人多，有知识的，赞说三藏威仪；好耍子的，都看八戒吃饭。却说沙僧眼溜，看见头底，暗把八戒捏了一把，说道：「斯文。」八戒著忙，急的叫将起来，说道：「斯文斯文，肚里空空。」沙僧笑道：「二哥，你不晓的。天下多少斯文，若论起肚子里来，正替你我一般哩。」八戒方才肯住。三藏念了结斋，左右彻了席面，三藏称谢。

寺僧問起東土來因，三藏說到古跡，才問布金寺名之由。The monastery monks asked why he had come from the Eastern Land. Sanzang related his mission, then, thinking of the ancient site, asked the origin of the name Bujin Monastery.那僧答曰：「這寺原是舍衛國給孤獨園寺，又名祇園。The monk replied, “This monastery was originally the Anathapindika Garden Monastery of the kingdom of Shewei, also called Jeta Grove.因是給孤獨長者請佛講經，金磚布地，又易今名。Because the elder Anathapindika invited the Buddha to preach and paved the ground with bricks of gold, its name was later changed to the present one.我這寺一望之前，乃是舍衛國。The land stretching before our monastery was once the kingdom of Shewei.那時給孤獨長者正在舍衛國居住，我荒山原是長者之祗園，因此遂名給孤布金寺。At that time the elder Anathapindika lived in Shewei, while this humble mountain was originally his Jeta Grove; hence the monastery came to be called the Anathapindika Gold-Paved Monastery.寺後邊還有祗園基址。Behind the monastery, the foundations of Jeta Grove still remain.近年間，若遇時雨滂沱，還淋出金銀珠兒。In recent years, whenever torrential seasonal rains fall, they still wash out little pieces of gold, silver, and precious stones.有造化的，每每拾著。」三藏道：「話不虛傳果是真。」又問道：「才進寶山，見門下兩廊有許多騾馬車擔的行商，為何在此歇宿？」眾僧道：「我這山喚做百腳山。Those with good fortune often pick them up.” Sanzang said, “The tale handed down is no falsehood; it is indeed true.” He then asked, “When we first entered your honored mountain, I saw beneath the gate and along the two covered walks many traveling merchants with mules, horses, carts, and shoulder loads. Why are they lodging here?” The monks answered, “This mountain of ours is called Baijiao Mountain.先年且是太平，近因天氣循環，不知怎的，生幾個蜈蚣精，常在路下傷人；In former years it was entirely peaceful, but lately, through some change in the seasons, we know not how, several centipede spirits have appeared and often injure people on the road below.雖不至於傷命，其實人不敢走。Though they do not actually take lives, people truly dare not travel there.山下有一座關，喚做雞鳴關。At the foot of the mountain stands a pass called Jiming Pass.但到雞鳴之時，才敢過去。Only when the cock crows do people dare go through.那些客人因到晚了，惟恐不便，權借荒山一宿，等雞鳴後便行。」三藏道：「我們也等雞鳴後去罷。」師徒們正說處，又見拿上齋來，卻與唐僧等吃畢。Those travelers arrived too late in the day and feared the inconvenience, so they have borrowed lodging for the night in our humble monastery and will leave after cockcrow.” Sanzang said, “Then let us also wait until the cock crows before departing.” While master and disciples were still talking, another vegetarian meal was brought, and the Tang monk and his companions ate their fill.

寺僧问起东土来因，三藏说到古迹，才问布金寺名之由。那僧答曰：「这寺原是舍卫国给孤独园寺，又名祇园。因是给孤独长者请佛讲经，金砖布地，又易今名。我这寺一望之前，乃是舍卫国。那时给孤独长者正在舍卫国居住，我荒山原是长者之祗园，因此遂名给孤布金寺。寺后边还有祗园基址。近年间，若遇时雨滂沱，还淋出金银珠儿。有造化的，每每拾著。」三藏道：「话不虚传果是真。」又问道：「才进宝山，见门下两廊有许多骡马车担的行商，为何在此歇宿？」众僧道：「我这山唤做百脚山。先年且是太平，近因天气循环，不知怎的，生几个蜈蚣精，常在路下伤人；虽不至于伤命，其实人不敢走。山下有一座关，唤做鸡鸣关。但到鸡鸣之时，才敢过去。那些客人因到晚了，惟恐不便，权借荒山一宿，等鸡鸣后便行。」三藏道：「我们也等鸡鸣后去罢。」师徒们正说处，又见拿上斋来，却与唐僧等吃毕。

此時上弦月皎。By then the waxing moon shone brightly.三藏與行者步月閑行，又見個道人來報道：「我們老師爺要見見中華人物。」三藏急轉身，見一個老和尚，手持竹杖，向前作禮道：「此位就是中華來的師父？」三藏答禮道：「不敢。」老僧稱讚不已，因問：「老師高壽？」三藏道：「虛度四十五年矣。Sanzang and Wukong were strolling idly in the moonlight when a Daoist attendant came to announce, “Our venerable master wishes to meet the distinguished visitors from Zhonghua.” Sanzang quickly turned and saw an old monk, bamboo staff in hand, come forward and salute him, saying, “Are you the master who has come from Zhonghua?” Sanzang returned the salute and said, “I am unworthy.” The old monk praised him without cease, then asked, “What is your honored age, Master?” Sanzang said, “I have idly passed forty-five years.敢問老院主尊壽？」老僧笑道：「比老師痴長一花甲也。」行者道：「今年是一百零五歲了。May I ask the venerable abbot’s honored age?” The old monk laughed and said, “I have foolishly grown older than you by one full cycle of sixty years.” Wukong said, “Then you are one hundred and five this year.你看我有多少年紀？」老僧道：「師家貌古神清，況月夜眼花，急看不出來。」敘了一會，又向後廊看看。How old do you think I am?” The old monk replied, “Your features are ancient and your spirit clear; besides, my eyes are dim in the moonlight, so at a glance I cannot tell.” After conversing for a while, they went to look along the rear gallery.三藏道：「才說給孤園基址，果在何處？」老僧道：「後門外就是。──快教開門。」但見是一塊空地，還有些碎石疊的牆腳。Sanzang said, “You spoke just now of the foundations of Anathapindika’s Garden. Where exactly are they?” The old monk replied, “Just outside the rear gate.—Quickly, have the gate opened.” There they saw a vacant plot with the footings of walls still piled from broken stones.三藏合掌嘆曰：Sanzang joined his palms and sighed:

此时上弦月皎。三藏与行者步月闲行，又见个道人来报道：「我们老师爷要见见中华人物。」三藏急转身，见一个老和尚，手持竹杖，向前作礼道：「此位就是中华来的师父？」三藏答礼道：「不敢。」老僧称赞不已，因问：「老师高寿？」三藏道：「虚度四十五年矣。敢问老院主尊寿？」老僧笑道：「比老师痴长一花甲也。」行者道：「今年是一百零五岁了。你看我有多少年纪？」老僧道：「师家貌古神清，况月夜眼花，急看不出来。」叙了一会，又向后廊看看。三藏道：「才说给孤园基址，果在何处？」老僧道：「后门外就是。──快教开门。」但见是一块空地，还有些碎石叠的墙脚。三藏合掌叹曰：

他都玩著月，緩緩而行。They all enjoyed the moonlight as they walked slowly along.行近後門外，至臺上，又坐了一坐，忽聞得有啼哭之聲。As they drew near the rear gate and reached a raised terrace, they sat for a while, when suddenly they heard the sound of weeping.三藏靜心誠聽，哭的是爺娘不知苦痛之言。Sanzang stilled his heart and listened intently; the weeper was lamenting that her father and mother knew nothing of her suffering.他就感觸心酸，不覺淚墮，回問眾僧道：「是甚人在何處悲切？」老僧見問，即命眾僧先回去煎茶。His heart ached with sympathy, and tears fell unbidden. He turned and asked the monks, “Who is grieving so bitterly, and where?” When questioned, the old monk at once ordered the other monks to return and brew tea.見無人，方才對唐僧、行者下拜。Only when no one else remained did he bow down before the Tang monk and Wukong.三藏攙起道：「老院主，為何行此禮？」老僧道：「弟子年歲百餘，略通人事，每於禪靜之間，也曾見過幾番景象。Sanzang helped him up and said, “Venerable abbot, why do you perform this courtesy?” The old monk replied, “This disciple is over a hundred years old and has some small understanding of human affairs. In the stillness of meditation I have also witnessed certain visions several times.若老爺師徒，弟子聊知一二，與他人不同。As for your reverence and your disciples, I know a little about you, and you are not like other men.若言悲切之事，非這位師家明辨不得。」行者道：「你且說，是甚事？」老僧道：「舊年今日，弟子正明性月之時，忽聞一陣風響，就有悲怨之聲。As for the sorrowful matter, it cannot be discerned unless this master here judges it clearly.” Wukong said, “Tell us first—what is the matter?” The old monk replied, “On this very day last year, while this disciple was illuminating the moon of his true nature, I suddenly heard a rush of wind, followed by a sound of sorrowful complaint.弟子下榻，到祗園基上看處，乃是一個美貌端正之女。This disciple rose from his couch and went to look at the foundations of Jeta Grove, where I found a beautiful and comely young woman.我問他：『你是誰家女子？I asked her, ‘Whose daughter are you?為甚到於此地？』那女子道：『我是天竺國國王的公主，因為月下觀花，被風刮來的。』我將他鎖在一間敝空房裡，將那房砌作個監房模樣，門上止留一小孔，僅遞得碗過。Why have you come to this place?’ The woman replied, ‘I am the princess of the kingdom of Tianzhu. While viewing flowers by moonlight, I was swept here by the wind.’ I locked her in a dilapidated, empty room and had it walled up like a prison cell, leaving only a small hole in the door, just large enough for a bowl to pass through.當日與眾僧傳道：『是個妖邪，被我綑了。』但我僧家乃慈悲之人，不肯傷他性命。That day I told the other monks, ‘She is an evil spirit whom I have bound.’ But we of the monastic order are compassionate and would not take her life.每日與他兩頓粗茶粗飯，吃著度命。Each day we give her two meals of coarse tea and plain rice to keep her alive.那女子也聰明，即解吾意。The woman is intelligent and immediately understood my intention.恐為眾僧點污，就裝風作怪，尿裡眠，屎裡臥。Fearing that the monks might violate her, she feigns madness, sleeping in her urine and lying in her filth.白日家說胡話，呆呆鄧鄧的；By day she talks nonsense and acts witless and dazed;到夜靜處，卻思量父母啼哭。only in the stillness of night does she think of her parents and weep.我幾番家進城來去打探公主之事，全然無損。Several times I have gone into the city to inquire about the princess, but I have heard that she is perfectly safe and sound.故此堅收緊鎖，更不放出。For that reason I keep this woman closely confined and will not release her.今幸老師來國，萬望到了國中，廣施法力，辨明辨明：一則救拔良善，二則昭顯神通也。」三藏與行者聽罷，切切在心。Now, fortunately, you have come to this kingdom. I earnestly hope that once you reach the capital, you will employ your great powers and determine the truth: first, to rescue the innocent, and second, to display your divine abilities.” When Sanzang and Wukong had heard him out, they took the matter deeply to heart.

他都玩著月，缓缓而行。行近后门外，至台上，又坐了一坐，忽闻得有啼哭之声。三藏静心诚听，哭的是爷娘不知苦痛之言。他就感触心酸，不觉泪堕，回问众僧道：「是甚人在何处悲切？」老僧见问，即命众僧先回去煎茶。见无人，方才对唐僧、行者下拜。三藏搀起道：「老院主，为何行此礼？」老僧道：「弟子年岁百余，略通人事，每于禅静之间，也曾见过几番景象。若老爷师徒，弟子聊知一二，与他人不同。若言悲切之事，非这位师家明辨不得。」行者道：「你且说，是甚事？」老僧道：「旧年今日，弟子正明性月之时，忽闻一阵风响，就有悲怨之声。弟子下榻，到祗园基上看处，乃是一个美貌端正之女。我问他：『你是谁家女子？为甚到于此地？』那女子道：『我是天竺国国王的公主，因为月下观花，被风刮来的。』我将他锁在一间敝空房里，将那房砌作个监房模样，门上止留一小孔，仅递得碗过。当日与众僧传道：『是个妖邪，被我捆了。』但我僧家乃慈悲之人，不肯伤他性命。每日与他两顿粗茶粗饭，吃著度命。那女子也聪明，即解吾意。恐为众僧点污，就装风作怪，尿里眠，屎里卧。白日家说胡话，呆呆邓邓的；到夜静处，却思量父母啼哭。我几番家进城来去打探公主之事，全然无损。故此坚收紧锁，更不放出。今幸老师来国，万望到了国中，广施法力，辨明辨明：一则救拔良善，二则昭显神通也。」三藏与行者听罢，切切在心。

正說處，只見兩個小和尚請吃茶安置，遂而回去。As they were speaking, two young monks came to invite them back for tea and rest, so they returned.八戒與沙僧在方丈中，突突噥噥的道：「明日要雞鳴走路，此時還不來睡。」行者道：「獃子又說甚麼？」八戒道：「睡了罷，這等夜深，還看甚麼景致？」因此，老僧散去，唐僧就寢。In the abbot’s quarters, Bajie and Wujing were muttering, “We must set out at cockcrow tomorrow, yet even now they will not come to bed.” Wukong said, “Idiot, what are you grumbling about now?” Bajie replied, “Come to bed. It is so late—what scenery is there still to see?” Thereupon the old monk withdrew, and the Tang monk retired.正是那：Just so:

正说处，只见两个小和尚请吃茶安置，遂而回去。八戒与沙僧在方丈中，突突哝哝的道：「明日要鸡鸣走路，此时还不来睡。」行者道：「呆子又说甚么？」八戒道：「睡了罢，这等夜深，还看甚么景致？」因此，老僧散去，唐僧就寝。正是那：

當夜睡還未久，即聽雞鳴。They had not slept long that night when they heard the cock crow.那前邊行商烘烘皆起，引燈造飯。Ahead of them, the merchants all rose in a noisy bustle, lit lamps, and began cooking.這長老也喚醒八戒、沙僧，扣馬收拾，行者叫點燈來。The elder also woke Bajie and Wujing, who saddled the horse and packed their things, while Wukong called for a lamp.那寺僧已先起來，安排茶湯點心，在後候敬。The monastery monks had risen even earlier and prepared tea, hot drinks, and refreshments, waiting respectfully in the rear.八戒歡喜，吃了一盤饝饝，把行李、馬匹牽出。Bajie was delighted. He ate a whole plate of steamed buns, then brought out the luggage and the horse.三藏、行者對眾辭謝。Sanzang and Wukong took leave of everyone with thanks.老僧又向行者道：「悲切之事，在心，在心。」行者笑道：「謹領，謹領。The old monk again said to Wukong, “Keep the sorrowful matter in your heart, in your heart.” Wukong laughed and replied, “I shall certainly remember, certainly remember.我到城中，自能聆音而察理，見貌而辨色也。」那夥行商哄哄嚷嚷的，也一同上了大路。Once in the city, I shall know how to hear words and examine their meaning, to observe faces and discern their expressions.” The company of merchants, clamoring noisily, also took to the road together.將有寅時，過了雞鳴關。At about the hour of the Tiger, they passed through Jiming Pass.至巳時，方見城垣。Only at the hour of the Snake did the city walls come into sight.真是鐵甕金城，神洲天府。It was truly a city of iron ramparts and golden walls, a divine realm and heavenly capital.那城：The city was:

当夜睡还未久，即听鸡鸣。那前边行商烘烘皆起，引灯造饭。这长老也唤醒八戒、沙僧，扣马收拾，行者叫点灯来。那寺僧已先起来，安排茶汤点心，在后候敬。八戒欢喜，吃了一盘饝饝，把行李、马匹牵出。三藏、行者对众辞谢。老僧又向行者道：「悲切之事，在心，在心。」行者笑道：「谨领，谨领。我到城中，自能聆音而察理，见貌而辨色也。」那伙行商哄哄嚷嚷的，也一同上了大路。将有寅时，过了鸡鸣关。至巳时，方见城垣。真是铁瓮金城，神洲天府。那城：

當日入於東市街，眾商各投旅店。That day they entered by the eastern market street, and the merchants each made for an inn.他師徒們進城，正走處，有一個會同館驛，三藏等徑入驛內。As master and disciples entered the city and went along, they came upon a Huitong government hostel and went straight inside.那驛內管事的即報驛丞道：「外面有四個異樣的和尚，牽一匹白馬進來了。」驛丞聽說有馬，就知是官差的，出廳迎迓。A steward at the hostel immediately reported to the postmaster, “Four very unusual-looking monks have come in from outside, leading a white horse.” Hearing that they had a horse, the postmaster knew they were on official business and came out into the hall to welcome them.三藏施禮道：「貧僧是東土唐朝欽差靈山大雷音見佛求經的，隨身有關文，入朝照驗。Sanzang saluted him and said, “This poor monk is an imperial envoy of the Tang court in the Eastern Land, sent to meet the Buddha at the Great Thunderclap Monastery on Lingshan and obtain the scriptures. I carry an official passport, which I must present at court for inspection.借大人高衙一歇，事畢就行。」驛丞答禮道：「此衙門原設待使客之處，理當款迓。I ask to rest briefly in your honor’s fine hostel and shall leave when my business is done.” The postmaster returned the salute and said, “This office was established expressly to receive envoys and travelers; it is only proper that we entertain you.請進，請進。」三藏喜悅，教徒弟們都來相見。Please enter, please enter.” Sanzang was delighted and called all his disciples forward to be introduced.那驛丞看見嘴臉醜陋，暗自心驚，不知是人是鬼，戰兢兢的，只得看茶擺齋。When the postmaster saw their ugly faces, he was secretly terrified, not knowing whether they were men or ghosts. Trembling with fear, he could do nothing but serve tea and arrange a vegetarian meal.三藏見他驚怕，道：「大人勿驚，我等三個徒弟，相貌雖醜，心地俱良。Seeing his fear, Sanzang said, “Do not be alarmed, sir. Though my three disciples are ugly in appearance, all possess good hearts.俗謂『面惡人善』，何以懼為？」As the common saying goes, ‘A fearsome face may hide a kindly man.’ Why should you be afraid?”

当日入于东市街，众商各投旅店。他师徒们进城，正走处，有一个会同馆驿，三藏等径入驿内。那驿内管事的即报驿丞道：「外面有四个异样的和尚，牵一匹白马进来了。」驿丞听说有马，就知是官差的，出厅迎迓。三藏施礼道：「贫僧是东土唐朝钦差灵山大雷音见佛求经的，随身有关文，入朝照验。借大人高衙一歇，事毕就行。」驿丞答礼道：「此衙门原设待使客之处，理当款迓。请进，请进。」三藏喜悦，教徒弟们都来相见。那驿丞看见嘴脸丑陋，暗自心惊，不知是人是鬼，战兢兢的，只得看茶摆斋。三藏见他惊怕，道：「大人勿惊，我等三个徒弟，相貌虽丑，心地俱良。俗谓『面恶人善』，何以惧为？」

驛丞聞言，方才定了心性，問道：「國師，唐朝在於何方？」三藏道：「在南贍部洲中華之地。」又問：「幾時離家？」三藏道：「貞觀十三年，今已歷過十四載，苦經了些萬水千山，方到此處。」驛丞道：「神僧，神僧！」三藏問道：「上國天年幾何？」驛丞道：「我敝處乃大天竺國，自太祖、太宗傳到今，已五百餘年。Hearing this, the postmaster finally composed himself and asked, “Imperial Preceptor, in what region does the Tang realm lie?” Sanzang replied, “In the land of Zhonghua, in Nanzhanbuzhou.” The postmaster asked again, “When did you leave home?” Sanzang said, “In the thirteenth year of Zhenguan. Fourteen years have now passed, and only after suffering through countless rivers and mountains have I reached this place.” The postmaster exclaimed, “A holy monk indeed, a holy monk!” Sanzang asked, “How many years has your noble realm endured?” The postmaster replied, “Our humble country is the Great Kingdom of Tianzhu. From our founding emperor and his successor down to the present, more than five hundred years have passed.現在位的爺爺，愛山水花卉，號做怡宗皇帝，改元靖宴，今已二十八年了。」三藏道：「今日貧僧要去見駕倒換關文，不知可得遇朝？」驛丞道：「好，好，正好。His present Majesty loves mountains, waters, flowers, and plants, and is styled Emperor Yizong. He changed the reign title to Jingyan, of which this is now the twenty-eighth year.” Sanzang said, “Today this poor monk wishes to have an audience and exchange his passport. I do not know whether I may still reach the court in session?” The postmaster said, “Good, good—your timing is excellent.近因國王的公主娘娘年登二十青春，正在十字街頭高結綵樓，拋打繡毬，撞天婚招駙馬。Our king’s royal daughter has lately reached the youthful age of twenty, and at the crossroads a high, festooned tower has been erected, from which she will cast an embroidered ball and leave her marriage to Heaven’s chance, choosing whatever man it strikes as her prince-consort.今日正當熱鬧之際，想我國王爺爺還未退朝，若欲倒換關文，趁此時好去。」三藏欣然要走，只見擺上齋來，遂與驛丞、行者等吃了。Today the festivities are at their height. I expect His Majesty has not yet withdrawn from court, so if you wish to exchange your passport, now is the best time to go.” Sanzang gladly prepared to leave, but just then the vegetarian meal was served, so he ate with the postmaster, Wukong, and the others.

驿丞闻言，方才定了心性，问道：「国师，唐朝在于何方？」三藏道：「在南赡部洲中华之地。」又问：「几时离家？」三藏道：「贞观十三年，今已历过十四载，苦经了些万水千山，方到此处。」驿丞道：「神僧，神僧！」三藏问道：「上国天年几何？」驿丞道：「我敝处乃大天竺国，自太祖、太宗传到今，已五百余年。现在位的爷爷，爱山水花卉，号做怡宗皇帝，改元靖宴，今已二十八年了。」三藏道：「今日贫僧要去见驾倒换关文，不知可得遇朝？」驿丞道：「好，好，正好。近因国王的公主娘娘年登二十青春，正在十字街头高结彩楼，抛打绣毬，撞天婚招驸马。今日正当热闹之际，想我国王爷爷还未退朝，若欲倒换关文，趁此时好去。」三藏欣然要走，只见摆上斋来，遂与驿丞、行者等吃了。

時已過午。It was already past noon.三藏道：「我好去了。」行者道：「我保師父去。」八戒道：「我去。」沙僧道：「二哥罷麼，你的嘴臉不見怎的，莫到朝門外裝胖。Sanzang said, “I had better go.” Wukong said, “I shall escort Master.” Bajie said, “I will go.” Wujing said, “Enough, Second Brother. Have you never seen what your face looks like? Do not go parading your bulk outside the palace gate.還教大哥去。」三藏道：「悟淨說得好，獃子粗夯，悟空還有些細膩。」那獃子掬著嘴道：「除了師父，我三個的嘴臉也差不多兒。」三藏卻穿了袈裟，行者拿了引袋同去。Let Elder Brother go.” Sanzang said, “Wujing is right. The idiot is coarse and clumsy, while Wukong has some delicacy.” The idiot pursed his lips and said, “Apart from Master, the faces of us three are much of a muchness.” Sanzang put on his kasaya, and Wukong took the document bag and went with him.只見街坊上士農工商、文人墨客、愚夫俗子，齊咳咳都道：「看拋繡毬去也。」三藏立於道傍，對行者道：「他這裡人物衣冠、宮室器用、言語談吐，也與我大唐一般。Along the streets they saw scholars, farmers, artisans, and merchants, men of letters and poets, fools and common folk, all clamoring, “Let us go watch the embroidered ball being cast!” Sanzang stood by the roadside and said to Wukong, “The people’s dress and bearing here, their palaces and houses, their implements, and even their speech and conversation are all just like those of our Great Tang.我想著我俗家先母也是拋打繡毬，遇舊姻緣，結了夫婦。I recall that my late mother, before I entered the religious life, likewise tossed an embroidered ball, met her destined match from a former life, and became husband and wife with him.此處亦有此等風俗。」行者道：「我們也去看看，如何？」三藏道：「不可，不可。They have the same custom here too.” Xingzhe said, “Why don’t we go and have a look?” Sanzang said, “No, no.你我服色不便，恐有嫌疑。」行者道：「師父，你忘了那給孤布金寺老僧之言？Our dress makes that inconvenient; I fear we might arouse suspicion.” Xingzhe said, “Master, have you forgotten what the old monk at the Temple of Jetavana’s Gold-Paved Garden told us?一則去看彩樓，二則去辨真假。For one thing, we can see the festooned tower; for another, we can determine what is true and what is false.似這般忙忙的，那皇帝必聽公主之喜報，那裡視朝理事？With all this commotion, the emperor is sure to be awaiting the glad tidings about the princess—how could he be holding court and attending to affairs?且去去來。」三藏聽說，真與行者相隨，見各項人等俱在那裡看打繡毬。Come, let us go.” Persuaded, Sanzang followed Xingzhe and saw people of every sort gathered there to watch the tossing of the embroidered ball.呀！Ah!那知此去卻是：Little did they know that this excursion would lead to the following:

时已过午。三藏道：「我好去了。」行者道：「我保师父去。」八戒道：「我去。」沙僧道：「二哥罢么，你的嘴脸不见怎的，莫到朝门外装胖。还教大哥去。」三藏道：「悟净说得好，呆子粗夯，悟空还有些细腻。」那呆子掬著嘴道：「除了师父，我三个的嘴脸也差不多儿。」三藏却穿了袈裟，行者拿了引袋同去。只见街坊上士农工商、文人墨客、愚夫俗子，齐咳咳都道：「看抛绣毬去也。」三藏立于道傍，对行者道：「他这里人物衣冠、宫室器用、言语谈吐，也与我大唐一般。我想著我俗家先母也是抛打绣毬，遇旧姻缘，结了夫妇。此处亦有此等风俗。」行者道：「我们也去看看，如何？」三藏道：「不可，不可。你我服色不便，恐有嫌疑。」行者道：「师父，你忘了那给孤布金寺老僧之言？一则去看彩楼，二则去辨真假。似这般忙忙的，那皇帝必听公主之喜报，那里视朝理事？且去去来。」三藏听说，真与行者相随，见各项人等俱在那里看打绣毬。呀！那知此去却是：

話表那個天竺國王，因愛山水花卉，前年帶后妃公主在御花園，月夜賞玩，惹動一個妖邪，把真公主攝去，他卻變做一個假公主。Now, the king of Tianzhu loved landscapes, flowers, and plants, and the year before had taken his queen, consorts, and princess into the imperial garden to enjoy them by moonlight; this attracted an evil spirit, who carried off the real princess and transformed herself into a false one.知得唐僧今年今月今日今時到此，他假借國家之富，搭起彩樓，欲招唐僧為偶，採取元陽真氣，以成太乙上仙。Knowing that the Tang monk would arrive here at this very year, month, day, and hour, she availed herself of the kingdom’s wealth to erect a festooned tower, intending to take him as her mate and draw off his true primal yang essence, thereby becoming a supreme immortal of the Great Unity.

话表那个天竺国王，因爱山水花卉，前年带后妃公主在御花园，月夜赏玩，惹动一个妖邪，把真公主摄去，他却变做一个假公主。知得唐僧今年今月今日今时到此，他假借国家之富，搭起彩楼，欲招唐僧为偶，采取元阳真气，以成太乙上仙。

正當午時三刻，三藏與行者雜入人叢，行近樓下，那公主才拈香焚起，祝告天地。At exactly three quarters past noon, Sanzang and Xingzhe mingled with the crowd and drew near the foot of the tower, just as the princess took up incense, lit it, and offered prayers to Heaven and Earth.左右有五七十胭嬌繡女，近侍的捧著繡毬。Around her were some fifty or seventy rouged and lovely embroidering maidens, while a close attendant held the embroidered ball.那樓八窗玲瓏，公主轉睛觀看，見唐僧來得至近，將繡毬取過來，親手拋在唐僧頭上。The tower had eight exquisitely latticed windows; the princess swept her gaze around, and when she saw the Tang monk draw near, she took the embroidered ball and threw it with her own hand onto his head.唐僧著了一驚，把個毘盧帽子打歪，雙手忙扶著那毬。Sanzang started in alarm; the ball knocked his Vairocana cap askew, and he hurriedly raised both hands to steady it.那毬轂轆的滾在他衣袖之內。The ball went rolling into his sleeve.那樓上齊聲發喊道：「打著個和尚了，打著個和尚了。」噫！Everyone on the tower cried out together, “It struck a monk! It struck a monk!” Alas!十字街頭，那些客商人等濟濟哄哄，都來奔搶繡毬。At the crossroads, the merchants and all the others surged forward in a noisy throng, each scrambling to seize the embroidered ball.被行者喝一聲，把牙傞一傞，把腰躬一躬，長了有三丈高的個神威，弄出醜臉。But Xingzhe gave a shout, bared his teeth, and hunched his back; displaying his divine might, he grew thirty feet tall and pulled a hideous face.諕得些人跌跌爬爬，不敢相近，霎時人散。He frightened the people so badly that they stumbled and scrambled away, not daring to approach; in an instant the crowd had scattered.行者還現了本像。Xingzhe then resumed his original form.

正当午时三刻，三藏与行者杂入人丛，行近楼下，那公主才拈香焚起，祝告天地。左右有五七十胭娇绣女，近侍的捧著绣毬。那楼八窗玲珑，公主转睛观看，见唐僧来得至近，将绣毬取过来，亲手抛在唐僧头上。唐僧著了一惊，把个毘卢帽子打歪，双手忙扶著那毬。那毬毂辘的滚在他衣袖之内。那楼上齐声发喊道：「打著个和尚了，打著个和尚了。」噫！十字街头，那些客商人等济济哄哄，都来奔抢绣毬。被行者喝一声，把牙傞一傞，把腰躬一躬，长了有三丈高的个神威，弄出丑脸。諕得些人跌跌爬爬，不敢相近，霎时人散。行者还现了本像。

那樓上繡女宮娥並大小太監，都來對唐僧下拜道：「貴人，貴人，請入朝堂賀喜。」三藏急還禮，扶起眾人，回頭埋怨行者道：「你這猴頭，又是撮弄我也。」行者笑道：「繡毬兒打在你頭上，滾在你袖裡，干我何事？The embroidering maidens, palace ladies, and eunuchs great and small all came down from the tower, bowed to the Tang monk, and said, “Noble sir, noble sir, please enter the court to receive congratulations.” Sanzang hastily returned their courtesies, helped them rise, then turned and reproached Xingzhe: “You monkey, you have made sport of me again.” Xingzhe laughed and said, “The embroidered ball struck your head and rolled into your sleeve—what has that to do with me?埋怨怎麼？」三藏道：「似此怎生區處？」行者道：「師父，你且放心，便入朝見駕，我回驛報與八戒、沙僧等候。Why blame me?” Sanzang said, “How are we to deal with this?” Xingzhe replied, “Master, set your mind at ease and go into court to see His Majesty; I shall return to the posthouse and tell Bajie and Sha Seng to wait.若是公主不招你便罷，倒換了關文就行；If the princess does not choose you, so much the better: simply have our travel document countersigned and be on your way.如必欲招你，你對國王說：『召我徒弟來，我要吩咐他一聲。』那時召我三個入朝，我其間自能辨別真假。But if she insists on choosing you, tell the king, ‘Summon my disciples here; I must give them some instructions.’ Once the three of us are summoned into court, I shall be able to distinguish the true from the false.此是倚婚降怪之計。」唐僧無已從言，行者轉身回驛。This is a scheme to use the marriage as a means of subduing the monster.” Having no alternative, the Tang monk followed his advice, while Xingzhe turned back toward the posthouse.

那楼上绣女宫娥并大小太监，都来对唐僧下拜道：「贵人，贵人，请入朝堂贺喜。」三藏急还礼，扶起众人，回头埋怨行者道：「你这猴头，又是撮弄我也。」行者笑道：「绣毬儿打在你头上，滚在你袖里，干我何事？埋怨怎么？」三藏道：「似此怎生区处？」行者道：「师父，你且放心，便入朝见驾，我回驿报与八戒、沙僧等候。若是公主不招你便罢，倒换了关文就行；如必欲招你，你对国王说：『召我徒弟来，我要吩咐他一声。』那时召我三个入朝，我其间自能辨别真假。此是倚婚降怪之计。」唐僧无已从言，行者转身回驿。

那長老被眾宮娥等撮擁至樓前。The elder was surrounded by the palace ladies and escorted to the foot of the tower.公主下樓，玉手相攙，同登寶輦，擺開儀從，回轉朝門。The princess came down, took his arm with her jade-white hand, and boarded the jeweled carriage with him; the ceremonial procession formed up and returned to the palace gates.早有黃門官先奏道：「萬歲，公主娘娘攙著一個和尚，想是繡毬打著，現在午門外候旨。」那國王見說，心甚不喜，意欲趕退，又不知公主之意何如，只得含情宣入。A chamberlain had already gone ahead to report, “Your Majesty, Her Highness the Princess is supporting a monk by the arm. The embroidered ball must have struck him; they are now outside the Meridian Gate awaiting your decree.” The king was most displeased when he heard this and wished to send the monk away, but, not knowing the princess’s wishes, he had no choice but to suppress his feelings and order them admitted.公主與唐僧遂至金鑾殿下，正是：一對夫妻呼萬歲，兩門邪正拜千秋。The princess and the Tang monk accordingly came before the Golden Throne Hall; truly it was this: one pair, as husband and wife, cried ‘Long live the king’; two houses, one evil and one righteous, bowed and wished him endless years.禮畢，又宣至殿上，開言問道：「僧人何來，遇朕女拋毬得中？」唐僧俯伏奏道：「貧僧乃南贍部洲大唐皇帝差往西天大雷音寺拜佛求經的。When the courtesies were over, they were summoned into the hall, and the king asked, “Monk, whence have you come, that you should be struck by the ball tossed by our daughter?” Prostrating himself, the Tang monk replied, “This poor monk was sent by the emperor of the Great Tang in Nanzhan Buzhou to the Great Thunderclap Monastery in the Western Heaven, there to worship the Buddha and obtain scriptures.因有長路關文，特來朝王倒換。As I carry a travel document for the long journey, I came especially to court to have Your Majesty countersign it.路過十字街彩樓之下，不期公主娘娘拋繡毬，打在貧僧頭上。Passing beneath the festooned tower at the crossroads, I never expected Her Highness the Princess to throw the embroidered ball and strike this poor monk upon the head.貧僧是出家異教之人，怎敢與玉葉金枝為偶？This poor monk has left the household and follows a different faith; how could I dare become the mate of one with jade leaves and golden branches?萬望赦貧僧死罪，倒換關文，打發早赴靈山，見佛求經，回我國土，永註陛下之天恩也。」國王道：「你乃東土聖僧，正是『千里姻緣使線牽』。I beg Your Majesty to pardon this poor monk’s capital offense, countersign my travel document, and send me swiftly on to Ling Mountain, that I may see the Buddha, obtain the scriptures, and return to my own country; then shall I forever record Your Majesty’s heavenly grace.” The king said, “You are a holy monk from the Eastern Land, and this is truly a marriage made a thousand leagues apart and joined by the thread of fate.寡人公主，今登二十歲未婚，因擇今日年月日時俱利，所以結綵樓拋毬，以求佳偶。Our princess has now reached the age of twenty and remains unmarried; because the year, month, day, and hour were all auspicious today, we had the festooned tower erected and the ball thrown in search of a worthy mate.可可的你來拋著，朕雖不喜，卻不知公主之意如何。」那公主叩頭道：「父王，常言『嫁雞逐雞，嫁犬逐犬』。As it happened, the ball struck you; though we are not pleased, we do not yet know the princess’s wishes.” The princess kowtowed and said, “Father and King, as the common saying goes, ‘Marry a fowl and follow the fowl; marry a dog and follow the dog.’女有誓願在先，結了這毬，告奏天地神明，撞天婚拋打。Your daughter made a vow beforehand, fashioned this ball, announced the matter to Heaven, Earth, and the gods, and cast it blindly to let Heaven choose her husband.今日打著聖僧，即是前世之緣，遂得今生之遇，豈敢更移？Today it struck the holy monk; this must be a bond from a former life that has brought about our meeting in this one—how could I dare change my choice?願招他為駙馬。」國王方喜，即宣欽天監正臺官選擇日期。I wish to take him as my imperial consort.” Only then was the king pleased, and he immediately ordered the chief official of the Imperial Astronomical Bureau to choose a date.一壁廂收拾妝奩，又出旨曉諭天下。Meanwhile, preparations were made for the bridal trousseau, and an edict was issued to inform the whole realm.

那长老被众宫娥等撮拥至楼前。公主下楼，玉手相搀，同登宝辇，摆开仪从，回转朝门。早有黄门官先奏道：「万岁，公主娘娘搀著一个和尚，想是绣毬打著，现在午门外候旨。」那国王见说，心甚不喜，意欲赶退，又不知公主之意何如，只得含情宣入。公主与唐僧遂至金銮殿下，正是：一对夫妻呼万岁，两门邪正拜千秋。礼毕，又宣至殿上，开言问道：「僧人何来，遇朕女抛毬得中？」唐僧俯伏奏道：「贫僧乃南赡部洲大唐皇帝差往西天大雷音寺拜佛求经的。因有长路关文，特来朝王倒换。路过十字街彩楼之下，不期公主娘娘抛绣毬，打在贫僧头上。贫僧是出家异教之人，怎敢与玉叶金枝为偶？万望赦贫僧死罪，倒换关文，打发早赴灵山，见佛求经，回我国土，永注陛下之天恩也。」国王道：「你乃东土圣僧，正是『千里姻缘使线牵』。寡人公主，今登二十岁未婚，因择今日年月日时俱利，所以结彩楼抛毬，以求佳偶。可可的你来抛著，朕虽不喜，却不知公主之意如何。」那公主叩头道：「父王，常言『嫁鸡逐鸡，嫁犬逐犬』。女有誓愿在先，结了这毬，告奏天地神明，撞天婚抛打。今日打著圣僧，即是前世之缘，遂得今生之遇，岂敢更移？愿招他为驸马。」国王方喜，即宣钦天监正台官选择日期。一壁厢收拾妆奁，又出旨晓谕天下。

三藏聞言，更不謝恩，只教：「放赦，放赦。」國王道：「這和尚甚不通理。On hearing this, Sanzang did not even offer thanks for the imperial favor, but merely pleaded, “Release me, release me.” The king said, “This monk is utterly unreasonable.朕以一國之富，招你做駙馬，為何不在此享用，念念只要取經？With the wealth of an entire kingdom, we offer to make you our imperial son-in-law; why will you not remain here and enjoy it, but think only of obtaining scriptures?再若推辭，教錦衣官校推出斬了。」長老諕得魂不附體，只得戰兢兢叩頭啟奏道：「感蒙陛下天恩。If you refuse again, we shall have the Embroidered-Uniform Guards drag you out and behead you.” The elder was so terrified that his soul nearly left his body; trembling, he had no choice but to kowtow and submit, “I am deeply grateful for Your Majesty’s heavenly favor.但貧僧一行四眾，還有三個徒弟在外，今當領納，只是不曾吩咐得一言。But our party consists of four, and this poor monk still has three disciples outside; now that I must accept, I have not yet had the chance to give them a single word of instruction.萬望召他到此，倒換關文，教他早去，不誤了西來之意。」國王遂准奏道：「你徒弟在何處？」三藏道：「都在會同館驛。」隨即差官召聖僧徒弟領關文西去，留聖僧在此為駙馬。I beg Your Majesty to summon them here, countersign the travel document, and order them to depart promptly, so that the purpose of our westward journey may not be thwarted.” The king granted his request and asked, “Where are your disciples?” Sanzang replied, “They are all at the Huitong posthouse.” An official was immediately sent to summon the holy monk’s disciples, give them the travel document, and send them westward, while the holy monk was to remain there as imperial son-in-law.長老只得起身侍立。The elder had no choice but to rise and stand in attendance.有詩為證：There is a poem as proof:

三藏闻言，更不谢恩，只教：「放赦，放赦。」国王道：「这和尚甚不通理。朕以一国之富，招你做驸马，为何不在此享用，念念只要取经？再若推辞，教锦衣官校推出斩了。」长老諕得魂不附体，只得战兢兢叩头启奏道：「感蒙陛下天恩。但贫僧一行四众，还有三个徒弟在外，今当领纳，只是不曾吩咐得一言。万望召他到此，倒换关文，教他早去，不误了西来之意。」国王遂准奏道：「你徒弟在何处？」三藏道：「都在会同馆驿。」随即差官召圣僧徒弟领关文西去，留圣僧在此为驸马。长老只得起身侍立。有诗为证：

當時差官至會同館驛，宣召唐僧徒弟不題。We shall say no more of how the appointed official went to the Huitong posthouse to summon the Tang monk’s disciples.

当时差官至会同馆驿，宣召唐僧徒弟不题。

卻說行者自彩樓下別了唐僧，走兩步，笑兩聲，喜喜歡歡的回驛。Instead, we tell how Xingzhe, after parting from the Tang monk beneath the festooned tower, took two steps, laughed twice, and returned to the posthouse in high delight.八戒、沙僧迎著道：「哥哥，你怎麼那般喜笑？Bajie and Sha Seng came to meet him and asked, “Brother, why are you grinning so happily?師父如何不見？」行者道：「師父喜了。」八戒道：「還未到地頭，又不曾見佛取得經回，是何來之喜？」行者笑道：「我與師父只走至十字街彩樓之下，可可的被當朝公主拋繡毬打中了師父，師父被些宮娥、綵女、太監推擁至樓前，同公主坐輦入朝，招為駙馬，此非喜而何？」八戒聽說，跌腳搥胸道：「早知我去好來，都是那沙僧憊懶。And why is Master not with you?” Xingzhe said, “Master has met with joy.” Bajie said, “We have not yet reached our destination, nor have we seen the Buddha, obtained the scriptures, and returned; what joy can there be?” Xingzhe laughed and said, “Master and I had only reached the festooned tower at the crossroads when, as luck would have it, the princess of this dynasty struck Master with her embroidered ball. Some palace ladies, festoon maidens, and eunuchs crowded him to the foot of the tower; then he rode into court in the same carriage as the princess, to be made imperial son-in-law. If that is not joy, what is?” Hearing this, Bajie stamped his feet and beat his chest, crying, “Had I known, I should have gone; it was all that lazy Sha Seng’s fault.你不阻我啊，我徑奔彩樓之下，一繡毬打著我老豬，那公主招了我，卻不美哉妙哉？If you had not stopped me, I would have run straight beneath the festooned tower; if the embroidered ball had struck old Zhu and the princess had taken me, would that not have been splendid and marvelous?俊刮標致，停當，大家造化耍子兒，何等有趣。」沙僧上前，把他臉上一抹道：「不羞，不羞，好個嘴巴骨子。Handsome and dashing, trim and proper—we would all have enjoyed the good fortune; what fun it would have been!” Sha Seng stepped forward, wiped a hand across his face, and said, “Shameless, shameless—what a mouth you have on you!三錢銀子買個老驢──自誇騎得。You are like the man who bought an old donkey for three qian of silver and boasted of what a fine mount it was.要是一繡毬打著你，就連夜燒退送紙也還道遲了，敢惹你這晦氣進門？」八戒道：「你這黑子不知趣。If the embroidered ball had struck you, they would have burned papers that very night to send you away and still thought it too late—would they dare bring such ill luck as you through their door?” Bajie said, “You black-faced fellow have no sense of taste.醜自醜，還有些風味。Ugly I may be, but I still have a certain charm.自古道：『皮肉粗糙，骨格堅強，各有一得可取。』」行者道：「獃子莫胡談，且收拾行李。As the old saying goes, ‘Coarse of skin and flesh, sturdy of bone and frame—each has some merit worth choosing.’” Xingzhe said, “Idiot, stop your nonsense and pack the luggage.但恐師父著了急，來叫我們，卻好進朝保護他。」八戒道：「哥哥又說差了。I fear Master may grow anxious and send for us, in which case we can enter the court and protect him.” Bajie said, “Brother, you are wrong again.師父做了駙馬，到宮中與皇帝的女兒交歡，又不是爬山踵路，遇怪逢魔，要你保護他怎的？Master has become the imperial son-in-law and will be making love to the emperor’s daughter in the palace; he is not climbing mountains and treading rough roads, meeting monsters and demons—what does he need you to protect him from?他那樣一把子年紀，豈不知被窩裡之事，要你去扶揝？」行者一把揪住耳朵，掄拳罵道：「你這個淫心不斷的夯貨！At his age, surely he knows what goes on beneath the bedcovers; does he need you there to lend a hand?” Xingzhe seized him by the ear, raised his fist, and cursed, “You brute, your lustful heart never dies!說那甚胡話？」What filthy nonsense are you talking?”

却说行者自彩楼下别了唐僧，走两步，笑两声，喜喜欢欢的回驿。八戒、沙僧迎著道：「哥哥，你怎么那般喜笑？师父如何不见？」行者道：「师父喜了。」八戒道：「还未到地头，又不曾见佛取得经回，是何来之喜？」行者笑道：「我与师父只走至十字街彩楼之下，可可的被当朝公主抛绣毬打中了师父，师父被些宫娥、彩女、太监推拥至楼前，同公主坐辇入朝，招为驸马，此非喜而何？」八戒听说，跌脚搥胸道：「早知我去好来，都是那沙僧惫懒。你不阻我啊，我径奔彩楼之下，一绣毬打著我老猪，那公主招了我，却不美哉妙哉？俊刮标致，停当，大家造化耍子儿，何等有趣。」沙僧上前，把他脸上一抹道：「不羞，不羞，好个嘴巴骨子。三钱银子买个老驴──自夸骑得。要是一绣毬打著你，就连夜烧退送纸也还道迟了，敢惹你这晦气进门？」八戒道：「你这黑子不知趣。丑自丑，还有些风味。自古道：『皮肉粗糙，骨格坚强，各有一得可取。』」行者道：「呆子莫胡谈，且收拾行李。但恐师父著了急，来叫我们，却好进朝保护他。」八戒道：「哥哥又说差了。师父做了驸马，到宫中与皇帝的女儿交欢，又不是爬山踵路，遇怪逢魔，要你保护他怎的？他那样一把子年纪，岂不知被窝里之事，要你去扶揝？」行者一把揪住耳朵，抡拳骂道：「你这个淫心不断的夯货！说那甚胡话？」

正吵鬧間，只見驛丞來報道：「聖上有旨，差官來請三位神僧。」八戒道：「端的請我們為何？」驛丞道：「老神僧幸遇公主娘娘打中繡毬，招為駙馬，故此差官來請。」行者道：「差官在那裡？While they were still quarreling, the postmaster came in and reported, “His Majesty has issued a decree and sent an official to invite the three holy monks.” Bajie asked, “What exactly does he want us for?” The postmaster replied, “The elder holy monk had the good fortune to be struck by Her Highness the Princess’s embroidered ball and has been chosen as imperial son-in-law; that is why an official has been sent to invite you.” Xingzhe asked, “Where is the official?教他進來。」那官看行者施禮，禮畢，不敢仰視，只管暗暗說道：「是鬼，是怪？Let him come in.” The official entered, bowed to Xingzhe, and, when the courtesies were over, dared not raise his eyes, but muttered under his breath, “Is it a ghost or a monster?是雷公，夜叉？」行者道：「那官兒，有話不說，為何沉吟？」那官兒慌得戰戰兢兢的雙手舉著聖旨，口裡亂道：「我公主有請會親，我主公會親有請。」八戒道：「我這裡沒刑具，不打你，你慢慢說，不要怕。」行者道：「莫成道怕你打？Is it the Lord of Thunder or a yaksha?” Xingzhe said, “You there, why do you hesitate instead of speaking?” The official was so frightened that he trembled all over; holding the imperial decree aloft in both hands, he babbled, “Our princess invites you to meet the family; our lord—the family meeting—invites you.” Bajie said, “We have no instruments of torture here and will not beat you; speak slowly and do not be afraid.” Xingzhe said, “Do you think he is afraid you will beat him?怕你那臉嘴。He is afraid of that face of yours.快收拾挑擔，牽馬進朝見師父，議事去也。」這正是：Quickly pack up, shoulder the luggage, and lead the horse; we are going into court to see Master and discuss what is to be done.” And truly it was this:

正吵闹间，只见驿丞来报道：「圣上有旨，差官来请三位神僧。」八戒道：「端的请我们为何？」驿丞道：「老神僧幸遇公主娘娘打中绣毬，招为驸马，故此差官来请。」行者道：「差官在那里？教他进来。」那官看行者施礼，礼毕，不敢仰视，只管暗暗说道：「是鬼，是怪？是雷公，夜叉？」行者道：「那官儿，有话不说，为何沉吟？」那官儿慌得战战兢兢的双手举著圣旨，口里乱道：「我公主有请会亲，我主公会亲有请。」八戒道：「我这里没刑具，不打你，你慢慢说，不要怕。」行者道：「莫成道怕你打？怕你那脸嘴。快收拾挑担，牵马进朝见师父，议事去也。」这正是：

畢竟不知見了國王有何話說，且聽下回分解。What they said after meeting the king remains unknown; listen to the explanation in the next chapter.

毕竟不知见了国王有何话说，且听下回分解。