When Qi San told Song Ruqi his name, the Madam of Duke Ying Mansion realized she had secured this daughter-in-law’s tea. At that moment, her conversation with Song Ci and others became even more enthusiastic.
As more guests arrived, the Madam of Duke Ying Mansion led Song Ci and the others to the flower hall intended for receiving guests.
In the flower hall, it was filled with beautiful women, and when they saw the Madam of Duke Ying Mansion, along with Song Ci and others enter, they were slightly startled, their eyes flickering.
Could it be that the two families are to become in-laws? Is it Song Si or Song Ruqi, or perhaps one of the younger sons?
Considering that there were several unmarried sons and daughters in the Prime Minister Song’s family, everyone’s hearts were lively with thoughts, though crossing the threshold of the Song household was not easy.
Song Ci was supported by Madam and received the salutations of many people.
At this time, she observed the hospitality of the Duke Ying Mansion. Perhaps to show the importance of this matchmaking event, even though it was the Duke Madam’s own birthday, she did not invite any madams of higher ranks than Song Ci, showing ample respect to Song Ci.
Song Ci expressed that she had learned from this experience.
At this moment, she was seated to the left of the host’s seat, and this seating arrangement prompted the guests to ponder further.
Song Ci did not have as many thoughts as others. Her elderly eyes scanned each lady who was accompanied by young girls as if equipped with X-ray vision.
Perhaps it was considered a rare occasion to visit Duke Ying Mansion, so each madam brought one or two daughters, like a beauty contest.
"Whose daughter is that?" Song Ci looked at her nine o’clock direction, where a young maiden with a striking figure and an especially impressive chest stood next to a lady dressed in indigo.
Oh dear, she has the same grandeur as I had in my youth!
Song Ci glanced at the maiden’s chest and instinctively lowered her eyes to her own flat chest.
Oh, I shouldn’t compare, shouldn’t imagine; comparing just makes my heart insufficiently supplied with blood, making me want to faint on the spot.
Madam looked over and replied softly, "That is a family member of Vice Minister of Rites Shen, but the girl herself looks unfamiliar. Since she’s with Madam Shen, she should be a relative of the Shen family or Madam Shen herself."
"Inquire about her," Song Ci said with great interest.
Madam said, "She has some beauty, but not stunningly so."
Song Ci said, "You don’t understand, look at her figure; it almost has a perfect advantage. Even if she has children in the future, there is no worry about the child not having enough nutrition."
How could Mother-in-law be so indiscriminate in her remarks!
The flower hall was full of young maidens, and the Madam of Duke Ying Mansion did not hold them back; instead, having her legitimate daughter and several concubine-born daughters take them to the Water Pavilion to play.
Once the girls left, the remaining ladies spoke more freely about various households.
Madam also received instructions and approached Madam Shen to inquire. That maiden is her sister’s daughter, surnamed Fu, nicknamed Qingniang, fifteen years old, and not yet betrothed.
"She seems like a fine girl, do you know who her father is?"
Madam Shen was stirred and said, "Her father is Fu Lisheng, the Deputy Magistrate of Guangling. This time, they came to the capital to celebrate my birthday. Honestly, my sister intends for me to help find her a match in the capital."
Madam’s eyes flickered slightly and she said, "She’s also a young lady from an official’s family; how has it taken this long? What kind of family are they looking for?"
Madam Shen sighed and said, "To be honest, the child’s grandparents passed away in succession, and she observed mourning for two years. My brother-in-law mentioned in his letter that as long as the child is of good character and the family is suitable, I can make the decision."
Madam understood and smiled, "No rush, good girls never worry about finding a match. I will send you an invitation soon. Bring a few children to play at our home, my second girl is also bored at home!"
Madam Shen replied with a smile.