The Tale of Kiều
by Nguyễn Du
Ch. 28: A Court-ordered Wedding
Translated by Vuong Thanh 

Chapter 28: A Court-ordered Wedding 

The prefect praised: “It surpasses the heights of the Tang dynasty!

This talent and that beauty, thousand liangs of gold cannot buy!

Truly a beauty and elite gentleman pair.

Of the Chou and Chen, one can’t find a couple better matched. 

Let’s stop harboring resentment and anger. 

Why break up a beautiful concert of guzheng and lute? 

You had brought this case to the court.

Outwardly, the rules of the law should be strictly followed.

But inwardly, compassion and mercy should be bestowed.

Your son’s mate, your daughter-in-law, is part of your family.

Just discard your displeasure then everything will be settled.  

The prefect then decreed a public wedding.

The bridal carriage took off like the wind,

the torches lighting up the night like stars.

A music band playing flutes and drums

led the newlyweds to their nuptial chamber.  

Old Thúc really liked her virtues and respected her talents.

Thereafter, he gave no more harsh words or stormy scenes.

In their home, tuberoses and orchids mixed their scents.

Having known bitterness, they loved each other more than ever.