Chapter 347: I Can Swear
Translator: Henyee Translations Editor: Henyee Translations
The prefectural magistrate’s wife explained that it wasn’t a matter of those concubine’s sons and daughters having the ability to contest her children’s inheritance. As the head of the family, she was still responsible for the well-being and moral upbringing of these offspring.
Managing the numerous children of concubines was a daunting task, especially when it came to disciplining children who were not her own. While it would be manageable if these children were obedient and diligent, if they displayed immoral behavior or became profligate and unruly, it could directly affect her own children.
The magistrate’s wife had suggested to the governor that the concubines use birth control methods. However, the governor appeared unwilling, citing concerns about the potential harm to his health.
The magistrate’s wife believed that if there were a method of contraception that posed no harm to the body, the governor would have no objections.
With this explanation, Qin Zhenzhen comprehended the situation. The magistrate’s wife didn’t want to interfere, and the governor often slept in the concubines’ rooms to prevent them from giving birth again.
The governor was a compassionate man, a type who wanted to protect all the women in his life. He believed he could respect his wife while remaining loyal to his concubines, fostering harmonious relationships among the women in his household. This type of man was seen as virtuous.
In modern society, men like him could potentially face legal consequences. However, in ancient times, women faced a challenging situation. Marrying a useless man who struggled to make ends meet might lead to her being sold off that very day. Marrying a capable man often meant accepting a household with multiple wives and concubines, without any sense of guilt.
For example, the prefectural magistrate’s wife may have appeared glamorous on the surface, but she secretly felt powerless. Nevertheless, she believed it was a typical situation for a man in that era.
Women in ancient times often had to adapt to their circumstances and couldn’t afford to dwell on their sorrows, primarily relying on their resourcefulness and resilience.
Qin Zhenzhen empathized with the magistrate’s wife’s concerns and reassured her with a warm smile. “Don’t worry, this is a straightforward task. I’ll prepare those medicines for you and turn them into pills.”
However, the magistrate’s wife raised another concern. “Has any man ever taken this contraceptive medicine? Even if it doesn’t harm his body, it might affect his virility.”
Qin Zhenzhen was taken aback by the unexpected request. “You want to give the governor this medicine?”
The magistrate’s wife admitted somewhat sheepishly, “Yes, I’m worried that my husband won’t agree to give those concubines the medicine. After some thought, I’ve decided not to discuss this with him and just take matters into my own hands.”
“Although I’ve never mistreated those concubines, they are still wary of me. I can deceive them into taking it once or twice, but eventually, they’ll become suspicious.”
“For my husband’s sake, I’m willing to secretly administer it to him.”
“He has never been guarded against me.”
Qin Zhenzhen cautioned, “Please think this through carefully. While I can assure you that my medicine has no side effects, I can’t guarantee that everyone will believe it.”
“What if your husband discovers that you’ve been secretly giving him medicine? What if he can’t accept it and directs his anger at you?”
In reality, Qin Zhenzhen was also concerned that if the governor found out she had covertly concocted this pill for his wife, he might retaliate, which could negatively impact her business. After all, in the provincial capital, the governor held considerable influence.
The magistrate’s wife must have grasped Qin Zhenzhen’s underlying message. She hastily made a solemn promise, “Rest assured, I will ensure it remains a secret. Even if I’m discovered, I won’t mention your involvement.. I swear, should I go back on this, I’ll meet a gruesome end!”