"Pei Ye, it has been too long since I last sent my regards.
More than two months have passed since I received your last reply. I have now traveled south to the region between Suzhou and Hangzhou. From my boat, I saw countless fireworks over the city and realized the New Year was upon us. The year draws to its close, and all begins anew. I wish you a happy New Year.
My Sword Inquiry has taken me through more than half the Sword Gates in the south. The journey has gone smoothly, and I have gained much. We can discuss it when we meet. I am now heading toward Dongting, where I expect to find the spring grass just emerging. Chang'an lies far to the northwest, so I fear you will see no tender green yet. Have you had a few falls of snow?
How are things for you in the Divine Capital? I have received no further letters from you these past two months and do not know whether you have faced danger again. I wrote to Senior Qiu Jizi and learned that you are now under Her Highness Jinyang's protection, which makes it easier for you to act in the Divine Capital. I imagine you must be doing reasonably well. I also sent this Highness a letter, but have received no reply.
It is good to have someone to rely on in the Divine Capital. Yet when you lodge in a tall tree, its leaves and branches hamper your singing and flight. You must observe and reflect upon the subtleties involved.
Also, I assigned you Sword Studies when you entered the Sword Academy. How has your practice progressed? The other day, at a sword gathering in the Eastern Sea, I saw a sword that suited you very