The Marquis's Mad Mistress

I am that un-foundational kept woman. The Young Marquis spent a hundred thousand gold taels for my freedom. I flaunt it: embedding Eastern Pearls on my shoes, tearing up 'Admonitions for Women'. Everyone calls me a madwoman. Three years later, the Marquis brought back a woman, intending to make her his co-wife. Madam cried, consenting. But I, stirring poison in his wine, smiled. "I'm sorry," I said, "but I do not agree."