Navigating the ‘Heavenly Flowers’ Illness: A Sister’s Concern

Little Plum,

Your last letter arrived with the tea merchant who travels between our towns. I was grateful beyond words to see your handwriting again. These are uneasy weeks, and every message from home feels like a small lantern in the dark.

I must ask you plainly: have you heard of the illness people are whispering about—the one they call “Heavenly Flowers.”

I fear most for the children. They suffer the most. And the ones that survive are left with scars that remain on their faces for the rest of their lives.

Because of this, families behave with great caution. The lucky ones can afford to hire a “pox healer” when the scourge first arrives. They use money or jewelry for this purpose.

Now, I see homes with the windows kept open to the air. Visitors are turned away if illness has appeared in their household. Mothers watch their children’s skin each morning as carefully as a gardener watches young plants after a storm.

Little Plum, you must promise me to keep your distance if anyone near your home shows signs of it. And that you will not share bedding, cups, or clothing with those who are ill. I know you are rolling your eyes reading this. Even so, I will remind you to wash your hands often. Keep your room aired with fresh air when the weather allows it.

I know you will say that I worry too much. An older sister always does. When I hear of this illness spreading from town to town, I imagine your bright face. It is among those small red blossoms. I cannot help it. The thought troubles my sleep.

Write to me soon and tell me truthfully how things are in your village. Let me know that you received prevention treatment from the traveling pox healer. Is everyone well? Have the children remained free of its terror?

Until I hear from you, I will keep you in my thoughts each morning.

Your loving sister,
Li Zhenyan