"
A few days passed, and an Imperial attendant, escorted by two
mandarins of the peacock- feather and crystal-button rank,
desired an audience of the August Aunt, and, speaking before the
curtain, informed her that his Imperial Majesty would pay a visit
that evening to the Hall of Tranquil Longevity. Such was her
agitation at this honour that she immediately swooned; but,
reviving, summoned all the attendants and gave orders for a
banquet and musicians.
Lanterns painted with pheasants and exquisite landscapes were
hung on all the pavilions. Tap- estries of rose, decorated with
the Five-Clawed Dragons, adorned the chambers; and upon the High
Seat was placed a robe of yellow satin embroidered with pearls.
All was hurry and excitement. The Blossoms of the Palace were so
exquisitely decked that one grain more of powder would have made
them too lily-like, and one touch more of rouge, too rosecheeked.
It was indeed perfection, and, like lotuses upon a lake, or Asian
birds, gorgeous of plumage, they stood ranged in the outer
chamber while the Celestial Emperor took his seat.
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