In the “Jade Terrace” Style #4, Quan Deyu

[lnhammer]

I know you’re leaving for the far east:
Your coming gives so many worries.
You smile, m’lord, but don’t blame me—
This dainty one can’t help be bashful.

玉台体 之四
知向辽东去，
由来几许愁。
破颜君莫怪，
娇小不禁羞。

I’m pretty sure this soldier’s sweetheart is a courtesan who’s pertly good at the role of a properly bashful miss. Alternate reading: it’s his “coming back” from his posting (i.e., how long he’ll be away) that worries her.

—L.

Comments

[sartorias]

Definitely a courtesan. Maybe he pays well? Or cooing about coming back is part of the act?

[lnhammer]

I was assuming the latter, but there’s no reason it can’t be both.