Everyone had a busy lunch, and then, led by the grooms, they set off toward the homes of their brides. This was the processional to collect the brides. Since the city's population is quite small—only about 1.4 million people in total—and there were over 80,000 people getting married this time, many were simply unable to get away. My true confidants had about ten people helping them out. As for those ordinary confidants, they had to have eight slaves carry the sedan chair and offer up a mountain of compliments just to recruit two students to help. Some were so inarticulate they couldn't find anyone at all, so they simply took the eight slaves and the sedan chair to collect their brides.
To create a festive atmosphere, I had gongs and drums sounding throughout the city. The mood was heightened to the extreme; even the slaves carrying the sedan chairs felt as if they were getting married themselves.
We arrived at the bride's home after a journey that, because of our slow pace, took nearly an hour. Upon arrival, the groom pulled out a string of firecrackers and lit them at the entrance. Hearing the popping, the people inside quickly opened the door, and the bride, supported by her bridesmaids or family, slowly walked out.
Chapter 71