"There must be people living nearby," they said.

So they swam upstream for 2 or 3 li (1 or 1.4 km) until they passed the mountain and came to a large stream.

By the stream were two beautiful girls who smiled as they watched the men approaching.

"Mr Liu and Mr Ruan have brought back our lost cup," they said.

Although Liu and Ruan had never before seen these girls, they greeted them cheerfully as if they were old friends.

"Why have you been so long?" asked the girls, inviting the men into their bamboo-tiled home.

Along the southern and eastern walls in the house stood two great couches draped with red silk curtains woven with gold and silver with bells at each corner. Next to each couch stood a dozen maidservants.

"Mr Liu and Mr Ruan have been traveling in the hills," said the girls to the servants. "Though they had peaches to eat, they are still exhausted. Prepare a meal as quickly as you can."

They dined on sesame, cured goat meat and beef, which were very delicious. Wine was served after the meal. Then, a number of girls came in, each carrying several peaches.

"Congratulations on the bridegrooms' arrival!" they said, laughing.

Liu and Ruan were both frightened and pleased.

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