Liu Shangzhi invited Chen Caozhi and Xu Miao to Peach Grove Cottage for lunch. Xu Miao had gone to ask his father's permission, so he had missed the scene just now. After hearing Liu Shangzhi's account, Xu Miao said, "So this is why Chu Wenbin stayed at the school. He wants to set another formidable enemy against Zizhong and drag Lu Qin into this. Truly despicable!"
Liu Shangzhi recalled something and said, "Zizhong, didn't Immortal Elder Ge write you two letters of recommendation, one for Master Xu and one for Governor Lu? Why not take his letter to pay Governor Lu a visit? As long as Governor Lu appreciates and values you, what can Chu Jian and Chu Wenbin do to you? Lu Qin naturally wouldn't make trouble for you either."
Chen Caozhi said, "I've been hoping to find an opportunity to visit Commissioner Lu. My late elder brother was also admitted to official rank thanks to his appreciation, but I have no means of gaining an audience. It seems improper to turn up unannounced."
Xu Miao said, "I have it! We have no lessons the day after tomorrow. I'll ask Father to take Immortal Elder Ge's letter to the governor's residence and deliver it to Commissioner Lu. What do you think, Zizhong?"
Chen Caozhi said, "That would be excellent."
The three arrived at Peach Grove Cottage. Gu Kaizhi was still lying asleep in the Thatched Cottage, while Wei Xie strolled beside the stream with his walking stick. Seeing Chen Caozhi, he smiled and said, "You've come at just the right time, Caozhi. Last night, Young Master Liu told me about Huan Yi giving you his flute. I found it most intriguing and wanted to make a painting of it."
Chen Caozhi smiled. "What good fortune it would be for