When the song ended, a sense of regret arose. Thinking of past heroes, now merely gravestones. Immediately, it transformed into excitement; life comes once, one should pursue what one desires and wants, living freely and happily.
Several songstresses came one after another, playing the pipa, blowing flutes and reeds, or beating drums and playing the zither. After each performance, the audience cheered loudly. The troupe leader took the opportunity to carry a basket wrapped in red cloth to various seats to solicit rewards.
The extravagant patrons rewarded four or five taels of silver per song. The troupe leader bowed in admiration, and others would praise and toast. For a moment, their faces radiated and the reward-givers couldn't help but look proud.
The more ordinary ones gave dozens to hundreds of wen coins. If they refused to offer rewards, the troupe leader would bow and say: "Unable to please the esteemed guests, truly sorry," then turn away.
