Pathway to Japanese Literature

Chapter One

“Ha ha ha ha! You two ladies here— So enamored with partners that you’d dance with someone like me… Because your soirée spirits remain unindulged.” “Lies! Nothing but lies! Though that isn’t quite it… When I dance with you, you whirl me about so violently—it leaves me positively dizzy, you see. That was my manner of declining.”

“If you haven’t yet settled on a waltz partner, shall I make the request?” He took out a beautifully adorned programme and wrote down names.

“Well then, shortly,” said the man, heading toward the dance floor. Following this, after the numerous young ladies had all gone that way, there remained the two girls from before. “Do you know that gentleman now?”

“Oh, that person is Ms. Saito,” she said. “She has also visited our residence.”

“Oh my, is that so? I first learned your name during our recent practice session. I had often seen her before, but… I must say, she seems a rather flighty lady. And her laughter is so excessively loud—what a peculiar lady, I must say.” “But that lady is also learned,” she said. “She is quite an open-hearted and admirable lady, I must say.”

These two young ladies conversing with each other stood out among the multitude of gathered young ladies as figures at the water's edge. To describe them in detail: One appeared about sixteen years of age, fair-skinned with large eyes. Her crimson lips remained solemnly closed yet lacked intensity, while around her cheeks lingered a natural charm that invited affection. The flower adorning her head had begun to fade, and though her waist was not particularly slender, her Western clothing seemed well-worn. She stood slightly hunched in reserved posture, yet possessed an added layer of grace. She wore a peach-colored amber-hued Western dress and fanned her chest area with a fan from which red tassels hung at intervals.

Beside her sat one who, compared to the previous young lady, might have been about two years older. Her nose stood high with elegantly defined eyebrows, while her eyes narrowed slightly. They would always admonish O-san with warnings like "You'll ruin your health," which she dutifully observed—perhaps having secretly used that lead powder herself. Her complexion stood out as strikingly fair, hair swept up from the nape into a tight bun gathered at the crown into a fan-shaped knot. The rashly cropped front locks coiled serpent-like with a reddish tinge. She wore an off-white Western-tailored dress hung with numerous beads, appearing slightly uncomfortable though her waist narrowed perilously thin, deliberately arching her back while her lower lip protruded distinctively—indeed proving quite the chatterbox about the groom awaiting attendants' malicious gossip.

In short, She was a person somewhat above the ordinary. The previous young lady appeared to have been somewhat affected.

“Miss Shinohara.” “Your honorable brother also.” “Your honorable brother’s return draws near now, does it not?”

“Ah yes, he did say he’d return around summer,” “But I simply detest it!” “Such a nuisance.” “Oh my! Why ever so?” “You should be looking forward to it.” “And wouldn’t it be splendid to have him assist with your school readings?” “Oh—I no longer attend school.” “That father of mine has always had a weak stomach, and lately it’s grown much worse.” “Mother—well, you know how utterly witless she is.” “I’m managing half the household affairs myself—it’s all terribly hectic.”

“Oh my! And how are you proceeding with your English studies? I trust you have not discontinued them, have you? But if you can manage conversation at your level, that should suffice.” “Why would I? I fully intend to continue my English studies. By now, surely you’re aware of that. That Mr. Yamanaka—since he has academic ability, I have him help me. I am exceedingly busy, you know. I practice English every single day as well. Managing household affairs and such is exceedingly trying, but... No matter how exceedingly busy I may be, I will most certainly attend the dances.”

“But if your father were unwell, he wouldn’t attend, would he?” “Though I’m told that socializing at home counts as proper interaction too.” “I still feel rather uneasy about it all.” “I’m not often asked to dance by foreigners.” “And my schoolwork keeps me terribly busy.” “I’ve scarcely attended such events.” “I’ve had so few chances to make acquaintances.” “Why must you be so reluctant?” “Even when I mope drearily at home,” “the moment I come here,” “my spirits turn quite active!” “In the West, those who don’t dance—” “they scorn them as ‘wallflowers’ (kabe no hana), you know!” “Are you joining their ranks?” “Oh! Mr. Miyazaki has come after ages away!” “That gentleman has such handsome features,” “and they say there’s nothing he can’t do.” “His fine looks and forthright character make him appear truly splendid, don’t you think?” “I wonder who that gentleman’s partner might be.” “Dreadfully short, isn’t she?”

“Oh my, what an unpleasant-looking Western outfit! Japanese people are short and shabby to begin with—they look as clumsy as a heron stepping on a loach. Given that situation, they really must dress more precisely or it’s hopeless. I usually wear Western clothing myself, but Mother always says she picks things up from below with her hem. In the West, they don’t put things down low like that. If the storage arrangement is poor, we always end up quarreling.” “Your appearance is most becoming—most becoming indeed. That Mr.Miyazaki’s sister—truly resembles a Westerner, I must say. Within my entire school as well, there’s a reputation that her looks are considered the finest.”

“Oh my! “But regarding that gentleman’s sister— “Is it not said that her large eyes are intimidating? “Is she truly accomplished in her pursuits?”

“Ah yes, she has turned fourteen this year—” “She accomplishes everything splendidly beyond her years.”

“Do you wear Western clothing even in your daily life?”

“No. "I simply do not wear it in daily life." "I do not even understand its practicality." “Because it has come to pass that people only come when I go out.” "It merely flows with delicacy." “It is akin to the competition between Tanakaya and Shirokiya in matters of clothing.” “If only I could manage it somehow,” “I do wish to maintain it in daily life, but...” "The tutoring school is also built in the Japanese style." "It does not go as I wish," she was saying when—

One Western-style dance ended. Saito arrived together with Miyazaki.

“Well then, let us ask Miss Hamako,” said Saito, leading away the young lady with her hair in a chignon.

“Oh! Miss Hattori—it’s been some time.” “Mr. Miyazaki, how have you been occupying yourself?”

“I’ve been feeling somewhat unwell.” “You’ve been looking after my sister every time.” “Since you kindly care for her morning and evening,” “Lately she says she doesn’t even wish to return home on Sundays.”

“Oh, not at all—I haven’t been attentive in the slightest,” she replied, but even as they spoke, the next dance had already begun. “Well then, shall we have a dance after such a long interval?” “Very well,” replied Hattori. From this point onward, there were standing refreshments and various other diversions. Around one o'clock in the morning, the voices of coachmen urging their carriages forward rang out clamorously. Each guest set off for home. This, indeed, was the night of the New Year’s banquet at the Rokumeikan.

Part Two

The third latticed house after turning into the side street of Imagawa Koji 2-chome. The front grounds were marked by conspicuous broom trees and utterly free of dust. The lattice door was wiped clean and had naturally taken on a luster. The remaining water in the guard bucket seemed to have been sprinkled about. On the granite shoe-removal stone lay two pairs of small clogs carelessly discarded—a taste for Komachi-like elegance. On the second floor was a bay window where a damp hand towel hung from the bamboo lattice. It was not a boarding house. Nor was it an external dormitory affiliated with any school. One might surmise that this second floor—either because the master had died or was away on a journey—had been lent to someone with whom they were ordinarily acquainted as a precaution against burglars. Yet this assessment too seemed somewhat forced.

The tenant of this second floor— Being around twenty-seven or twenty-eight years of age. His features were well-defined, though with a slight scowl. They praised such features for their so-called stylishness. There were those who found such features pleasing, it was said. A Kaihei hakama neatly folded in two. A lunchbox wrapped in a purple cloth and such. Could he not be a newly successful official? He appeared fresh from the bath. With the rims of his eyes faintly reddened. [He] placed a mirror on the window. [He] was repeatedly adjusting his hair. In a frivolous tone.

“Ah—I’m the one who said that,” she declared, thundering up the stairs. She briefly peeked in. “Oh my, you’ve done a lovely job styling it, haven’t you? I’ve brought a light for your cigarette,” she said, holding a metal fire-ladle in one hand. She knelt briefly by the brazier and sat down. She appeared to be around thirty years of age, her complexion somewhat dusky and her nose high-bridged. Her black crested haori had its right sleeve cuff slightly frayed. The collar of her deer-patterned kimono retained the refined Kyoto taste favored by connoisseurs. She wore a detachable collar that had been starched and washed numerous times. Her front hair slightly thinned at the temples. With a vermilion-inlaid comb decorated with pine motif lacquerwork, she gathered her hair and firmly tucked it beneath the round bun. Well now, what a peculiar creature she was. While taking the fire to the brazier, she intently tidied up the ash remnants of the rolled cigarettes. Her manner of speech, unbefitting her age, had a childlike quality.

“Hey, Mr. Yamanaka. Enough already—turn this way! Well, earlier… You’ll have something to look forward to soon.”

“Why?” “Why? Because something wonderful has happened. Shall I tell you?” “I’m all ears, I’m all ears.”

“Well, earlier when I went to the bathhouse,” “Then while I was out, a splendid coachman dressed in jet-black livery came by.” “He asked ‘Are you home?’” “When Okiyo said she was out,” “‘Then I shall visit again later.’” “‘Cause she insisted on meeting you.’” “He left.” “Okiyo said that.” “A very refined young lady in Western clothing.” “She was waiting in a carriage outside the lattice.” “I’m certain it must surely be that person.”

“Who?” “Don’t play dumb!” “You know perfectly well!” “Miss Shinohara!” she declared through her nose, forcing weight into her words.

“Ahh, that tomboy!” “Since I haven’t visited for some time,” “She must have gone out to consult about some Western book.” “That Western enthusiast is such a nuisance.” “When she approaches, she somehow reeks of foreigners.” “Oh? When did she approach you?” “What do you mean by that?” “Because she goes to dance practice every single day.” “That curly fringe keeps getting thrust in my face.” “But even carrying on like this, having such a rare specimen come around—I can’t rest easy,” she said with a slight laugh.

An older wife truly does bring worries. Yet surely there’s nothing shadowing us. As for lingering darkness— Hmm.

Yamanaka: “What could there possibly be?”

“Who’s to say?” “There’s never been anything like that,” Yamanaka declared. “Hmm.” Otsuda snorted derisively.

Miss Okiyo the maid came clattering up to the middle landing.

“Miss Otsuda! Miss Otsuda!” “The egg seller’s come!” “Don’t need any today.” “But there’s none left already!” “Don’t need any!”

“Well，it’s that one!” “Whenever she goes up to the second floor，” “Won’t even bother coming down for half a moment，” Okiyo grumbled as she made her way back downstairs toward the kitchen.

“Granny! She says she doesn’t need any today.” “Yes, yes. Thank you kindly.” “I humbly request your patronage again.” “Well, sit down and have a rest!” “Well then, I’ll take a little rest, shall I?” “Heave-ho!” “You always keep yourself so neat and clean, don’t you?” “It’s only Lord Shinohara’s maids and you.” “You keep yourself so neat and clean.” “But Miss Shinohara wears Western clothes, which looks odd.” “Oh, you’re going into Shinohara-san’s place?”

“Oh, I ain’t goin’ there.” “A right fine regular customer, I tell ya.” “Without missin’ three days, she buys fifty-sixty suits at a time, I say.” “Well then, you’ve seen that young lady too, ain’tcha?” “She’s a looker, wouldn’t ya say?” “Ain’t sayin’ she’s bad-lookin’, mind... “But to our eyes, that Takashimada style’s better suited, y’know.” “That young lady’s with our Mr.Yamanaka now, y’hear.”

“Hmm, that handsome man?” “Oh, he’s gotten all hot and heavy with her!” “But you’re the one who said Miss Otsuda’s been actin’ strange with that young’un, ain’t ya?” “Oh, Miss Otsuda’s definitely been actin’ strange too, I tell ya! When I went to their place the night before last too, the two of them went out together—didn’t come back till nearly one o’clock.” As she’d been dozing off, she heard carriage wheels. Rushing out and peering through the lattice door, she saw them come staggering back together in the same cab. “Mr. Yamanaka’s such a looker, and with that silver tongue of his—could lead anyone astray. But poor soul though he is... Back during Saigō’s rebellion, her father served as an army lieutenant or such, got himself killed over there. Next year her ma up and died sick, leaving her with neither kin nor means. While our master still lived, he took pity—helped with her business, found odd jobs to keep her round the house.”

“Before he died, he asked Shinohara-san to have her appointed as an official.” “She knew a bit of Western languages.” “She was smooth-talking.” “She was so resourceful.” “She gradually rose through the ranks.” “Now she earns as much as twenty-five yen.” “She’s that sort of resourceful person, you see.” “Our Miss Otsuda also comes from the gutter, you see.” “She can’t very well stay a widow forever…” “Oh, looks like there’s someone at the door.”

“Well then, I’ll be back to trouble you again,” said the egg seller as she took her leave.

Okiyo quickly peeked out front. She was hurrying upstairs when—just then came the mistress, Otsuda. “Who’s there—?” “Oh, that person from earlier.” “Well then, show them up to the second floor. Because even if you summon them properly, they mustn’t pretend not to hear. Come along to the next room.” Okiyo removed her work sash while— “Hmph. What an outrageous watchdog you are.” “Hey, what happened to the needle box?” “What? My needle box was in the way? Oh, they’re callin’ again! I can hear ’em!” Clatter.

A widow’s coiffure—praise it as you might, you’ll only slander it—or so someone had once versed. How arduous it was for widows to navigate this world! By ancient custom, when their lord died, they were to devote themselves single-mindedly like pines whose chastity never fades. With a resolute snap went their severed tresses too—yet as those locks gradually grew back, ah! To think they fashioned that very hair into supplemental tresses! Could they not even bind it into a proper married woman’s chignon now? At times they yearned to try Western coiffures or comb-wrapped styles instead—such irrevocable regrets were not absent from them! Rather than this—let flowers bloom for womanly widows! Far better to openly permit their remarriage! In Western nations—so we hear—they remarry publicly without shame! What need for such torment? A tree that’s no pine yet apes the pine; an ill-timed parasitic growth sprouting forth! Unlike its name of unchanging virtue—is it not shameful when crimson flushes one’s cheeks?

Chapter Three

A majestic high pavilion soared into the clouds. On the front face of the encircling stone walls, the pillars of the Iron Gate stood sturdily and majestically. A nobleman’s residence—needless to say. The lord and master of this house was a retainer of a certain southwestern domain who had performed meritorious deeds surpassing others during the Restoration. On the nameplate affixed to the gate, that it bore the freshly inked title "Junior Third Rank, Viscount [Name]" in jet-black characters sufficed to proclaim his standing. Thus in days of old, he had advocated reverence for the Emperor and preached expulsion of foreigners. In those days when he rushed about to all quarters, the countries of Western civilization as well he habitually disparaged as "ugly barbarians" and reviled as "cunning foes"— Even now, facing the enlightened trends of the times— he still could not fully shed this habit. As fellow retainers from the same domain, those close associates now thriving in the cabinet— thus he would ultimately lag behind the trends of the times. Having been appointed to official positions, they traveled abroad. When they toured various Western nations,

On the advice that they would surely gain some enlightenment, after touring Europe for a year, upon returning to Japan they became thoroughgoing enthusiasts of Western customs. Declaring that our nation’s cuisine harmed one’s health, they employed exclusively Western cooking methods. Their dwellings too were restricted to stone structures with glass windows. They spurned wearing any garments save straight-sleeved woolen suits, extending this even to the household’s maids and menservants - forbidding traditional Japanese attire altogether. They compelled all to don Western-style work clothes, until everything became Western this, Western that. They came to emulate only those foreign manners. This marked their initial venture into such matters.

Shinohara Hamako’s father was Michikata. He was over fifty years old, but having no sons and only one daughter, Hamako, though not one to indulge in doting affection, found his discipline naturally growing lax. If something was called a Western custom, he approved of anything. Western women prioritized social interaction— theater-going, evening parties. He even half-listened to tales claiming that Western dancing and reveling day and night were simply the norm. Academic studies were treated as secondary— piano, violin practice—to these alone did he have her devote herself. Moreover, while household instruction was said to lie with the mother, her mother being country-bred from the start and not even proficient in basic literacy, Hamako found herself increasingly overlooked. When phrases like “a woman without education has no prospects” came to be spoken aloud, there naturally remained no reason to heed such words.

Thus, within the household— Though Hamako comported herself as though she were alone, Since there was no one to reproach her, Those with discernment secretly clicked their tongues and exchanged criticisms, it is said.

“Oh! What’s wrong with you? Miss hasn’t even come back yet. Why are you sprawled out like that, I say!”

“What? Isn’t it already twelve o’clock?” “Even men don’t stay up so late.” “No matter what you say, you know.” “You’re bringing that up again? If the lord hears about this, he’ll pop his eyes out in a flash, I tell you. In Western countries, at evening parties, staying up until dawn is practically taken for granted. Girls never wake up before eleven or twelve o'clock in the morning— he’s always saying he wants Japan to swiftly adopt such customs too. That’s exactly what he says!”

“Even so, if every household were like that, it’d be fine, but…” “Here it’s only late nights.” “Because in the morning, we still have to get up when the neighbors and those across the way do.” “I just can’t help getting sleepy.”

“Right?” “It’s not just us.” “Even the mistress struggles something fierce with all this Western-style business, I tell you.” “The other day—since she’d apparently grown accustomed to eating it—she went and said she wanted pickled radish.” “There was an instance when it came up, but—” At that time, the student lodger sneered. “‘Your esteemed wife hides things from my lord,’ he said.” “There was a time when he claimed she’d taken a lover along with the pickled radish.” “Ahaha.” “That’s all well and good, but what if the young mistress comes home?” “She won’t be back for quite some time yet.” “Something about who she danced with today.” “And something about someone else saying such-and-such.” “No matter when, in the end—” “Having to endure that Mr. Yamanaka’s bragging is downright exhausting.”

“But still—that young master who’s been abroad… He’s some distant relation of our lord’s, or so they say. But isn’t he meant to be the young lady’s husband? And is it really proper for him to say such things, you know?” “That’s precisely what they call civilization. You mustn’t spout such old-fashioned nonsense. As long as there’s nothing improper about it—interactions between men and women must be conducted in an open manner. That’s what our lord always says.”

Just then came the clattering sound of a carriage—clatter-clatter-clatter. “Miss… you’ve returned…,” called the groom’s voice.

Part Four

From Kudanzaka along the moat came clattering magnolia-wood geta. The sound must have been students returning from school - two or three boys of about fifteen years each. One had tucked a white canvas bag under his arm and wore a woolen daikoku-zukin hood. His bearing showed no particular baseness, yet compared to his companions he appeared somewhat coarse. His striped cotton-flannel wadded jacket was slightly too gaudy; though not yet threadbare, its conspicuous shoulder patches made the garment look decidedly shabby.

“Your lesson today was difficult, wasn’t it?” “Well, sure, but I had my brother do the pre-reading for me yesterday.” “It was awfully easy, I tell you.” “I had my old man do it for me too, I tell you.” “Matsushima-kun doesn’t have anyone to do his pre-reading for him.” “But no matter what, you can’t manage it in the lecture hall alone.” “Yet despite that, he gets good results on exams—it’s downright uncanny!” “Matsushima-kun manages just fine with only his sister handling the tuition somehow, huh?” “Where does the money come from?”

“Well, that’s Ashio-kun’s sister.” “She’s really something, I tell you.” “The other day when my father went to Mr. Miyazaki’s place in Ichibancho—” “Over in that tenement row there’s a girl called O-Hide.” “She does knitting piecework to pay her brother’s school fees, I tell you.” “She’s got government bonds too but—” “Your sister hasn’t laid a finger on any of ’em, I tell you.” “So it’s true then, Ashio-kun?”

“Hmm.” “I don’t know anything about that.” “Later.”

“Oh, are we splitting up here?” “I’ll see you tomorrow then!” Ashio: “Whatever—you don’t have to invite me.” “Goodbye.” “That guy’s hiding something—how weird!” they called back as they left. Tsk—he wore a vexed expression. He ascended the slope while mumbling. He hurried all the way to a certain house in Sanchōme-dani—the Issan residence. He rattled open the lattice door and slammed it shut. He stomped up into the house.

“Oh Ashio. “You’re terribly late today.” “It’s Mother’s memorial day.” “I prepared ceremonial tea offerings.” “If you’re hungry,” “Shall I make rice balls for you?”

“I don’t need anything,” Ashio threw his hat and lunchbox aside. “Oh dear, that won’t do at all.” “Once I finish knitting this shawl,” “I must go to the yarn shop in Koji-machi,” “so set out your desk as usual and review your studies once.” “Then let me know when you’re done.” “Ugh.” “Sis, next month will be Father’s third anniversary already.” “I want to make it proper—maybe by distributing memorial offerings.”

“But it would be good if there were any dear acquaintances from Father’s lifetime who could provide memorial offerings.” “Ever since we left our hometown—first the year before last, then last year—one after another.” “Both Father and Mother have passed away as well.” “In our hometown, there are distant relatives, but...” “If we were to return to our hometown, both you and I—” “Because we’d end up truly illiterate and uneducated.” “I’ll do everything I can to keep striving.” “Because I want to make you into someone great here in Tokyo.” “Please study with that resolve.” “That Mr. Miyazaki helps us in many ways, and...” “Because he kindly gives us discounts at his shop too.” “I’ll prepare some rice cakes for the memorial day.” “I’m thinking of having them delivered.”

“Ugh. So how much in government bonds do we have?” “That’s right—we have about 1,500 yen. Though when Mother passed away, we used a considerable amount for the funeral and such... But we’ve kept that money quietly set aside. For both you and me—it’s vital capital for when we settle down.” “But Sis... I’ll soon be entering university as a government-sponsored student. It’s just three years. Let’s take out that money and use it. You should enroll in a cram school too. Wouldn’t it be better if we both studied?”

“No, but even if you say that—if we spend it all now, Father’s painstaking efforts would vanish like water bubbles. I’ve been doing this knitting work... The little amounts left each month—three or five sen at a time I deposited at the post office—they add up to about two yen and fifty sen now. If there’s something you want, please buy it with that.” “There’s nothing I want at all... But you—a sister who loves learning—knitting yarn day after day... It just makes me feel wretched.”

“No – regarding academics, what you’ve been learning at school,” “since you remember your lessons well and explain them to me,” “my studying at home amounts to the same thing.” “If you truly pity me,” “then please become an accomplished person quickly.” “With your current academic abilities as they stand,” “your university admission remains uncertain.” “When you next visit Mr. Miyazaki,” “that gentleman holds a Bachelor of Letters and serves as a university assistant professor, I hear.” “Be certain to thoroughly explain your convictions and formally make the request when you go.”

“Ugh… But I—this is just so frustrating I can’t bear it!” Ashio’s voice thickened with emotion.

“What? You’re really being neurotic, worrying about such trivial things. What’s wrong?” “But it’s about me—I’m just a good-for-nothing studying with the money from your knitting work. A freeloader clinging to your shins isn’t exactly rare. Everyone else has parents, so they’re fine, but…”

“That’s precisely why nothing compares to parents’ importance,” she said gently yet firmly. “After they passed away... No matter how much filial devotion you wish to show, it can never reach them now.” Her voice softened like silk unraveling from a spindle. “Enough of these complaints—why not offer incense at the family altar instead?” She paused, noticing his trembling lips. “Oh dear—must you get teary-eyed? Such narrow-mindedness won’t do.” Her fingers tightened around her knitting needles as she quoted, “As *Essays in Idleness* teaches us—‘When one applies their mind too strictly during harsh times, matters will turn against them.’ You know this wisdom.” The rhythmic click-clack of bamboo needles resumed like a metronome measuring her resolve. “Keep your heart open to all things,” she urged, her gaze steady as temple lanterns in windless night. “Prove those doubters wrong through your future achievements—let their shame be their own blush-maker.”

For a maiden still only seventeen, Though her face showed a wisdom rare for her years, Yet even her younger brother’s heart— When he thought of his deceased parents— Tears unbidden, drenching sleeves impossible to hide, Just as he turned his face away.

“Hey there! Tofu for sale!” “Fresh tofu here!”

“Sis, the tofu seller’s here.” “Tofu here!” “Sis, can’t you hear? The tofu…”

“I heard you.”

She carefully composed her expression.

“I don’t need any today.”

Chapter Five

“Forgive me.”

“Oh, Mr. Ashio.” “Passing by in such haste?” “Ichiro is at home today.” “Ms. Saito has come too,” she said.

At an age two or three years past her traditional coming-of-age milestone, her hair was cut straight across at the nape. The slightly plump, good-natured-looking old woman— landlord of the tenement where the Ashio siblings rented their residence— was Miyazaki Ichiro’s mother.

Ashio walked straight past. He greeted Miyazaki and Saito. Then he turned toward Miyazaki’s mother. “Um, today marks the third anniversary of my late father’s passing, so... I deliberately prepared these botamochi as an offering, but... As they are my sister’s handiwork, they may not be perfectly made, but please do partake of them,” he said, holding out the lacquered box he carried. He draped a wrapping cloth over it and presented it.

“Ah yes, that’s how it was,” said Mrs. Miyazaki. “How quickly time passes indeed.” “Ms. Saito was indeed of a different sect, but…” “Ichiro, look how delicious these appear!” “Mr. Ashio, are you applying yourself diligently at school?” “Mr. Saito still remarks on how quickly you’re progressing.” “You have a reputation as a prodigy.” “And he went on praising you.” This Saito was a teacher at the school Ashio attended. He was presumed to be an instructor there. “Truly, even this Buddha...” “They must be rejoicing beneath the sod.” “And listen here, Mr. Saito.” “This child’s sister is truly admirable.” “There was some savings left by Father,” “Even now, the interest from public bonds...” “They say it brings in eight or nine yen per month.” “She insists we mustn’t reduce that.” “She does all sorts of knitting work with wool.” “So her sister even cooks the meals.”

“On top of that, she covers this child’s tuition…” “Auntie, that’s a lie.” “That isn’t true!”

“Mr. Ashio. “You talk about your sister doing domestic work as if—” “You might conceal it out of shame, but—” “That is nothing to be ashamed of.” “It’s a tale worth boasting about.” “People must earn their bread by their own strength.” “Your sister is truly remarkable.” “And in my household, we praise her privately.” “Say, Ms. Saito.” “That is truly admirable.” “And that’s not all. “Though she herself cannot attend school, “When this child returns home, “she immediately has him teach her precisely what he studied.” “Being dexterous, she learns quickly.” “Now she even has this child do preliminary readings for her, you see.”

“Mr. Ashio.”

“That is indeed true,” said Ashio formally. “All that I had forgotten was handled by my sister...”

“I see.” “They say you perform unusually well in Japanese linguistics for your age, Mr. Ashio.” “Then that must be your sister’s doing, hmm?” “Yes—when my late father was alive,” “my sister had constantly attended Ms. Shitamae Utako’s school,” “practicing songs and such,” “and reading books.” “I too learned the basics from her.”

“I see. How is your English, hmm?”

“I am studying the Fourth Reader and World History.”

“That’s quite something! It’s no wonder he’s called a prodigy. I’m only focused on chemistry. I still haven’t become acquainted with Mr. Ashio.”

“Is that so? As for me, I am well acquainted with you.”

“I thought as much. If you keep excelling like this, before long you’ll become a fine government official, I suppose.”

“Mother.” “If you say such things to children,” “You’ll plant seeds of grave error.”

“Mr. Ashio.” “Academics are not for becoming a government official and drawing a salary.” “You pursue them to become someone who brings benefit to society.” “Ms. Saito.” “Even in today’s universities, those who graduate in politics or law—” “They will all become government officials, but—” “Compared to those graduating in literature or engineering,” “When you say that, they’re mostly not good at academics.” “It’s like they’re drawing water to the same old paddies.” “Ahahaha.” “That’s why you too, Mr. Ashio—” “Make sure the very characters for ‘government official’ don’t even enter your mind.” “Strive to do things that benefit the world.”

“Speaking of government officials—what became of Yamanaka? These days they say ministries are thriving. Others have been promoted too, I hear. Hopeless man though he is—that sort gains popularity? Let me tell you. Well, academically speaking—he’s seventy percent *Gomakashum*, thirty percent *Opekaryum*.” Hahaha. “Yet he draws two-thirds the salary of equivalent positions,” said Miyazaki. “Government officials amount to neither honor nor anything.”

“But lately he’s been showing his face at every society event,” “Apparently he’s been strutting about like he’s wormed his way into the mid-tier of high-ranking officials.”

“What do you mean? That’s all Shinoharako’s doing,” “Especially since that one keeps favoring him and dragging him around.” “I heard some strange story about that business though...”

“That could never be the case,” said Miyazaki. “That one has a handsome face and acts so flamboyantly—he doesn’t care about inviting suspicions of impropriety—while this one clings to him with such odd persistence. That’s why there’s such a fuss, I tell you.” He shifted topics abruptly. “Speaking of which, you were teaching part-time at that girls’ school too, weren’t you? I heard the Shinohara girl was expelled.” “Expelled she was,” Saito replied, “though truth be told, she showed real talent at piano and such. But beyond that…” She trailed off meaningfully. “The rest never lived up to appearances. I’d doubted she’d graduate next year even without expulsion—perhaps it’s for the best.” Leaning forward conspiratorially, she added, “Still, her English has improved lately—Yamanaka’s been tutoring her constantly.” A dry chuckle escaped her lips. “Of course, Shinohara’s father pulls strings too—but between her wild socializing and…” She waved a dismissive hand. “Oh, she caused quite a stir at the school for a time, but promising students? None remain there now, I tell you.” Her tone softened unexpectedly. “Now Hattori’s girl at the private academy—docile, clever, though rather lifeless—now that’s someone worth remarking on.”

“Yes I tell you—my sister too often requires assistance at that same academy.” “Yet I’m impressed by her kindness that defies her years.”

“Goodbye.”

“Oh! You’ve returned so abruptly?” “Give my regards to your sister.”

Part Six

In the one-room tokonoma adjacent to the bedding closet stood a bookcase sharing space with a chest of drawers. Ink stains from spills dotted various surfaces. Before the chest sat a small tinplate basin containing neatly folded habit-smoothing cloths. Beside it stood two or three sticks of erasing charcoal. Though a comb lay discarded nearby, the area maintained meticulous order with nothing out of place. A package apparently delivered by messenger had been set before them. A student leaned against the window, thrusting restless fingers into disheveled hair at her lavender-tinged hairline while repeatedly smoothing fallen bangs. Could this face rival Xi Shi's legendary beauty? Around her mist-soft brows gathered slight furrows as she mouthed words from a letter. Then approached another female student—large-eyed yet charmless—who quietly slid open the shoji screen.

She slid open the shoji door quietly.

“Miss Hattori,” said the female student. “Aren’t you going home today?” “Oh, this letter just arrived,” replied Hattori. “I’ve been told not to go home today.”

“I see,” said the female student. “How lively and pleasant. If you have that English-Japanese dictionary, please lend it to me.” “Please, take it,” replied Hattori. “I’ve just had something sent over for your use. Do come in and partake.”

“Thank you.” “Then we should invite Miss Saito as well.” “Miss Saito! Miss Saito!” called a voice from the doorway of the adjacent room. “Whaaat?” “I’m so terribly sleepy today, I tell you.” “Yet last evening around eight, I dozed off in the lecture hall.” “I was scolded by Mr. Aizawa.” “Startled, I returned to my room.” “I ended up falling asleep without even changing into my nightclothes.” Letting out a big “Aah” yawn while— She closed the shoji door with a thud and entered.

“Oh! Miss Saito, that was rather clumsy!” “It’s fine. It was too stuffy in here.” “I’m going to expel the carbon!” “Such blunt talk!” “Even if my mouth isn’t empty, my stomach sure is, I tell you!” “I’d like to get my hands on some supper, I tell you!” “That’s why I invited you.” “Because I did invite you, I had you come here, I tell you!…” “There we have it—this!” “It’s from home.” “I’ll open the package now, I tell you!” “Well, well! Fūgetsudō’s castella cake and—” “A bag of peanuts.” “This bag here’s a five-sen sack, I tell you!” “And under this jubako—” “Well, well! What dishes we have here, I tell you!” “Whitebait and arrowhead homemade dishes!” “It must be the esteemed wife of a third-rank official.” “She did prepare these for Miss Namiko to eat, I tell you!” “Ah, a parent’s love runs deeper than the sea.”

“Miss Saito, if you keep chattering away like this—” “Then I’ll take all of it for myself, I tell you!”

“But I tell you! "I had a strange dream last night，I tell you!" "Fuku-chan became a woman，I tell you! “Because he says he wants to come as a bride to my brother’s place，I tell you!” “Don’t say such things—become a real man.” “Become my groom…” “As for my brother，I tell you!” “Because my brother is quite fond of Miss Hattori—the one he meets at evening parties—” "When I said，‘Poor thing，’Fuku-chan got angry." “Hey，Miss Saito，that’s enough now，I tell you!” “Saah—” she cut the castella cake with a penknife and served it． “Money，money． “Thank you．” “Whoa．” “You…” “Kind，”she twittered in broken English while lightly taking a piece，“and then—Mr．Miyazaki…”

“That’s quite enough now, I tell you! You may be carefree and unconcerned, but—do cease this at once, I implore you.”

“Hey, hey—you’ve made your point.” “Then bring Mr. Aizawa here.” “I’ll join you for a chat, I tell you!” she called out, munching noisily as she hurried off. “Really now.” “Swish—what a quick-motion person, I tell you!”

“However, that person resembles my brother quite a bit. He has considerable talent, I tell you. There are any number of people who go ‘Ah!’ over him, I tell you.”

“But what’s truly detestable is that O-nama—a fellow student, perhaps?—I tell you!” “He’s so absurdly preoccupied with maintaining appearances.” “As though his essay marks were deficient or some such.” “Oh, he just keeps offering excuses—‘I was too occupied to attend,’ and the like.” “Yet he fawns over Western affectations.” “When it comes to mixed residency with foreigners, he prattles on about this and that!” “I found it utterly mortifying, yet...” “Someday—your essay, you see...” “I’ve committed it to memory...” “When even sages’ teachings are twisted to self-serving ends—” “One risks descending into disarray.” “When even the lowborn pause to heed folk songs—” “There is naught that cannot instruct.” “For truly, if the soil be unfit—” “Though sown, it shall not sprout.” “If it be not that very person—” “Though spoken, it remains unheard...” “I hold this essay in such esteem.” “I took it as my model and held my tongue.”

“Your memory is truly remarkable. “Even I had forgotten.” “Speaking of which—even Miss Shinohara’s older brother returned to the capital yesterday, I tell you.”

“Oh, isn’t that person H?” “He is H, but he’s perpetually engaged.” “Miss Hamako also refers to him as her brother, I tell you.”

“And then what will happen? With that impropriety, she could never become a bride, I tell you!”

“You say such things now.” “Those people are quite educated, I tell you.” “That cannot be true.” “That is merely idle gossip in society.” “These days, all respectable people rival civilized nations.” “As for their efforts with evening gatherings...” “While we lower-class people,” “having never witnessed such things ourselves,” “tend to scorn what we don’t understand.” “When even a trifling novelty occurs—” “they embellish tales and spread slander.” “To those wholly ignorant,” “they circulate all manner of rumors.” “Nothing terrifies more than human tongues.” “Though one like myself should not stay withdrawn,” “while still a student yet to enter society,” “I believe one must neither retreat too far nor overstep bounds.”

“Truly!” “What you say...” “It doesn’t sit well with me at all.”

Just then—it was Saito again from before. She came clattering after Aizawa. “It hurts! It hurts!” “How have you been occupying yourself?”

“I was nearly snatched by Ms. Saito,” “That sweet potato, you know,” “When I was eating the one I received from Mr. Nishimura,” “Ms. Saito came and tried to take it, you see.” “She’s such an unpleasant person!” “That’s why I’ll treat you to castella,” “I said we should swap, you know.” “Oh! So Ms. Saito was telling the truth after all,” “Here’s the castella, you know,” “Then I’ll give you this.” “My, how mercenary!”

“But one must consider the substance! Because Ms. Saito is a liar.” “That’s a lie! To insult someone so viciously is unconscionable!”

“Well, let’s set aside such matters. Do come over here and have some!”

The female students ate irritably among themselves. "Oh dear, it's almost gone!" "What's the problem? Ms. Hattori is returning home tomorrow, I tell you! It's fine if it runs out!" "Yes, please help yourselves to as much as you like." "Since I would like to review tomorrow's lesson a bit." "Excuse me." "Oh, stop it, I say. Since you're going to rest." "You don't need to review it, don't you think?"

“If one studies as hard as you do, Ms. Hattori,” “the body cannot endure it, I tell you.” “Me? I’ve...” “never known what it means to take a break!” “That’s why I grew so anxious before exams.” “The other night I stayed up until two o’clock,” “only to receive such dismal marks.” “I’ve become thoroughly disheartened, I tell you.” “My, my—what a state of affairs!” “Yet...” “it’s exceedingly harmful to one’s health.” “Could it be that female students lack the vigor of their male counterparts?” “Though you mustn’t grow too indolent either.” “Therefore, refrain from urging them to study so strenuously.” “They will apply themselves according to their own capacities.” “But of late, women’s education has become quite the contentious issue.” “Not to the extremes of Miss Aizawa’s case,” “but when they compel excessive study,” “it enfeebles the spirit—they say it produces feeble offspring.”

“Oh, how disagreeable! Who’d go off to become some man’s bride?” “You speak such nonsense,” said Miyazaki. “They say even female teachers ought to marry.” “What nonsense! If I become a teacher,” retorted Aizawa, “I won’t be kneeling before any man! No servile bowing!” Ms. Hattori interjected gravely: “This explains why scholars nowadays argue women shouldn’t pursue learning at all—better to keep them ignorant masses, they say.” Her voice took on a lecturing tone. “When women gain even rudimentary education, they become teachers—yet feudal lords keep no learned women in their households.” She adjusted her spectacles. “They claim educated women bear fewer children—that it shows lack of patriotism.” “Around Meiji Year Five or Six,” she continued, “women’s manners grew shockingly coarse—swaggering about with squared shoulders,” her hands mimed exaggerated posture shifts, “wearing those vulgar town-style hakama trousers while spouting radical rhetoric.” Her mouth twisted distastefully. “A truly deplorable trend—though matters seemed improved lately...”

“Also, hearing how they supposedly revere women in the West or some such talk.” “They say this might cause us to backslide somewhat.” “Today’s female students carry grave responsibilities, I tell you.” “That thick-skinned woman Shakespeare wrote about—” “It’s just like men acting effeminate.” “I declared this most unbecoming.” “Moreover, first and foremost regarding Napoleon—” “He proclaimed that reforming France required virtuous mothers.” “Thus if we don’t educate women—” “They can hardly become proper mothers either.” “But if we do educate them—” “It breeds brazen, obstinate women.” “They must each choose a specialized field.” “Study it diligently.” “Avoid growing haughty or losing their vitality.” “Take care not to sacrifice their gentle feminine virtues.” “Do this, and their offspring will become gifted sons and daughters.” “Thus creating a new world respected by civilized nations.” “So declared a certain authority.”

“Oh no no no! When I hear such things—” “I’ve really come to hate it—ugh.” “Even if I study diligently,” “If I become a wife, I’d have to do housework...” “It’s such a hassle—I can’t stand it!” “I’ll become an independent artist!” “I’ll become a painter!” “Within the arts,” “except for music, dance, and a couple others,” “the source of all arts is painting, I tell you.” “Therefore, painting is the King of the arts.” “Oh.” “Or perhaps the feminine side?” “Then it’s Queen, I say...” “I will definitely, definitely become a painter!”

“Oh? I hear Miss Saito’s becoming a painter.” “Even though you’re such a lazybones.”

“Even Miss Saito is wholeheartedly devoted, you know.” “She can become a painter.”

“Oh my.” “Then I’m wholeheartedly devoted too.” “Because I recently achieved a high score in science.” “Shall I become a scientist using that as my foundation?” “You…”

“When I graduate from this school, I will become a wife, I tell you.” “Miss Namiko, you will be the same, I suppose.” “Yes.” “Because I like literature.” “I’ll go to a Bachelor of Letters or something like that.” “We’ll both work as husband and wife, I tell you.”

“Oh my, how close you two are! As for me—husbands or such—I really, truly don’t want one, I tell you!”

“Well then, Miss Namiko—it would be splendid if you were to marry my brother. I would be glad if that were so.”

“That’s true, I tell you!” declared Saito with her still-childlike girlishness. She found it impossible to gauge others’ intentions. When she blurted out her thoughts, they all chimed together. They got carried away, blurting things out anew. They ended up saying improper things.

At that very moment when their chatter ceased—

Clack-clack-clack. “Ah—that must’ve been the meal clapper.” “Come now—let’s go!” (Footfalls) Thud-thud-thud.

Part VII

Rickshaws pulled by two men came and went morning and evening. Fūgetsudō confectionery boxes. Food baskets and such brought by student-like attendants and rickshaw pullers. In front of the gate, the coming and going never ceased. This was none other than Viscount Shinohara’s residence. The master had been in critical condition since some time ago. Even the so-called doctor was tilting his head quizzically. The commotion throughout the house knew no bounds.

It had been some time since the adopted son Tsutomu's return to Japan. "This is unbearable—so busy!" came repeated complaints. The attendant students' grievances grew increasingly clamorous. Now that there seemed to be slight improvement on this very day, both high and low throughout the household felt somewhat at ease, until O-san's laughter gradually rose to unavoidable prominence. Yamanaka, as was his custom under the pretense of attending the sick, held continuous conversation about some matter in Hamako's room. Since returning to Japan, Tsutomu had become acutely aware of something— tormented by unease, his heart found no solace. Whenever he sat at his desk, only his nerves grew more violently agitated, leaving him no outlet for his increasingly disordered delusions. Though he considered walking an ideal therapeutic method, his adoptive father's illness brought concerns from those around him, preventing any free excursions outdoors. Indeed, the intermittent laughter from Hamako's room or kitchen areas became precisely what ignited his short fuse. He would often find himself glaring contests with the ceiling, bitterly distressed beyond words. Ah—this thing called nerves was truly a fearsome creature.

At times when he looked about him, it seemed as if demons and monsters were assailing him directly before his eyes. Before he knew it, he would imagine a delicate beauty standing beside him. They shifted and transformed in countless ways. Truly, the reality of this brooding hour was but another fleeting dream. After a short while, there was an air as though he had slightly awakened from a dream. He let out two or three yawns. He slowly stood up and opened the shoji screen. He went out into the garden and walked around the flowerbed about three times aimlessly. He deliberately avoided the area around Hamako's room. He slowly made his way toward the front of the estate. He approached the vicinity of the stablehands’ quarters. Whispering voices and laughter could be heard. To ears unaccustomed to vulgar matters, it seemed most unusual. He slowly drew near and was about to listen. The large hunting dog that came running upon recognizing its master’s footsteps—he restrained it with a glance as it fawned and wound around his feet. Bending slightly at the waist to stroke its head, he listened.

“Oi!” “Just the other day, see.” “I’m tellin’ ya, it’s got me sick to my stomach.” Stablehand: “What’s wrong?” “What’s done’s done.” “It’s your damn business, I tell ya.” “It’s your household’s Ohane-san, see.” “That widow’s place—she went and got herself in there.” “Lured out that bastard Yamanaka who’s been hanging around,” “Schemin’ to sneak all the way to Mukojima.” “Never figured they’d go out together.” “At first, honest as I am, I thought for sure...” “There’s already talk ’bout the widow and Otsuda.” “Strange they’re targetin’ different folks,” he said. “Not like flower season—ain’t many folks around, eh?” “Suruto bastard!” “They climbed into Ohane-san’s rickshaw for a shared ride—” “All a front, ain’t it?” “Ain’t no use arguin’ with a squallin’ brat or a hardheaded magistrate.” “Put on some damn fool act, so I pulled my rickshaw from behind and followed.”

“They went to Uehan out back for lunch, I tell ya.” “Was too damn disgustin’, I tell ya.” “When I thought I’d at least rope Enosuke into it too...” “He shrewdly went ’round ahead, Hansuke!” “Hunh. Follow ’em.” “You think some nobody like Hansuke can keep a lid on this?” “Right ’fore you, I couldn’t stand the sight o’ my own guts.”

“No wonder I thought it was damn strange they went out in Japanese clothes t’other day.” “Don’tcha know ’bout thumbs?” “Nah, how the hell should I know?” “Every damn one of ’em.” “Muzzled with gold.” “Heave-ho! Heave-ho!” they muttered under their breath as riders approached. They involuntarily raised their voices.

Tsutomu eavesdropped. Lightning flashed repeatedly across his brow as he listened. He started to rise abruptly. But perhaps there was reason to reconsider. He remained listening intently.

“But when ya think about it, they ain’t even surprising.” “All the places we go to are high-class joints, but...” “All that highfalutin nonsense—what’s the damn point anyway?” “Ain’t that mostly the ones actin’ all Westernized?”

“Nah, that’s ‘cause the world ain’t opened up proper yet,” “The hell you say!” “With their ‘Good evenin’’s and fancy Shichin sashes danglin’ at their hips,” “Next thing ya know, they’re stickin’ up like bantam rooster asses.” “Ain’t this just the season for puttin’ on airs?” “Mr. Shitahige came out with a sharp one t’other day, I tell ya.” “This here era—they call it the Age of Self-Indulgence now.” “When they wanna sweet-talk ladies, out comes the Western airs;” “When they want kept women, back comes the old ways;” “Ain’t a lick of consistency in any of it.” “But without no mutual reckonin’—” “This whole damn Age of Self-Indulgence ain’t worth squat! Ahaha” Such trivial talk leaned ever more toward self-indulgence.

“Mr. Yamanaka is taking his leave.” Tsutomu hurriedly stood up. Whether because of that or not, his thoughts were in turmoil. The frantic clatter of his mind’s small clogs— Determined not to make a sound, he moved with stealthy steps. He returned toward the garden.

Chapter 8

In the sweltering heat of Minazuki—said to melt even gold—to the pleasure boat inn and the shop marked by paper lanterns came a man who appeared to be about twenty-four or five years old. He had a straight nose and fair skin. His eyes seemed ordinary at first glance, yet there was an indefinable sharpness about him—one might well have called him the Iwashita no Den of legend. His mouth was rather too small, though he had grown a slightly handlebar-shaped mustache. His height stood above average. He wore a jacket tailored from thin striped flannel with matching trousers, carried a slender walking stick, and sported an oversized Panama hat. Notably, he had deliberately forgone carrying a Western-style umbrella.

“Oh my! Young Master of Surugadai,” said the landlady. “It has been quite some time, sir. I heard you had returned from your overseas studies recently—Mr. Miyazaki told me so. Well, well!” “I returned about ten days later,” said Shinohara. “But today is too hot. Since I have an appointment to go out for some cool air with Miyazaki, he should be here soon. Prepare a roofed boat for me.”

“Would you care for some sake?” “And side dishes?” “Three bottles of stock.” “Arrange three varieties of accompaniments.” “We’ll be boarding elsewhere eventually.” “I require nothing more,” he was saying when— Miyazaki entered accompanied by Saito.

“Oh! I meant to arrive earlier, but—” Saito began, when the boat was readied and everyone boarded it.

“When one speaks of five years, it seems an eternity,” Miyazaki began, “yet now that we meet again, how swiftly it has passed. You must have countless tales from your overseas studies – with your intellect, I’ve no doubt you formulated novel academic theories. I had intended to inquire at length and listen carefully, but...” He inclined his head slightly. “With Lord Father’s persistent indisposition and your household’s apparent busyness, I have been remiss in paying my respects.” “I too have been negligent,” Saito interjected, her tone lighter yet still formal. “But pray tell – how fares your family of late?”

“I share your sentiment indeed,” said Shinohara. “Having met schoolmates like you fellows, I would have liked to enjoy a leisurely chat, but given Father’s condition, I’ve been unable to even step outside. I couldn’t act as I pleased. However, after two or three days, his health improved remarkably—hence why I invited you today.” “During your time abroad,” Miyazaki began, “you often sent me letters. Though due to my habitual negligence with correspondence, I failed to reply even once for every three I received. In those replies where I reported on Tokyo’s current state in journalistic fashion, you argued that ‘the Japanese are like people bewitched by mesmerism, dancing entirely at Westerners’ fingertips as they imitate all manner of things.’ Yet this differed greatly from the theories I’d heard you espouse before. When people go abroad, they typically grow fond of the West—but in your case, have you come to dislike it?” Those who knew him found it puzzling.

“It is only natural you would find it puzzling,” said Shinohara. “What I gained during my five years abroad—though that may sound rather grandiose—ah, that’s precisely the crux of it. Oh! The ice has melted—there’s scarcely any left now. Well then, pour another round. Hey, boatman! Could you pull ashore somewhere and fetch about two and a half pounds of ice?”

Miyazaki: “Now then, Shinohara. “After your return from abroad, did they promptly hold some sort of celebration?” “Hey there, Saito.” “I’ve been looking forward to joining your group for the congratulatory feast...” “But with Lord Father’s condition still unimproved, matters haven’t yet progressed that far, have they?”

“You truly are someone to be envied. “While we speak of Lord Father’s so-called past meritorious service— “he is being elevated to the nobility; “The Lady stands peerless in both talent and beauty— “lately she’s even mastered English, “excels particularly at the piano, “dances through every diversion— “she wouldn’t shame herself mingling with your lot. “A veritable matched pair with yourself, they say— “that’s the talk circulating among our friends, I assure you!”

“Now that you mention it, that may be true,” said Shinohara, “but personally, I find it quite disagreeable. I’ve been contemplating how to handle this marriage matter—since it concerns both of you, I’ll confess my secret outright. As you know, I was raised from age five or six precisely because my parents intended me to marry into this arrangement and inherit the household. They even spent a fortune sending me to study in Europe. Now if I were to reject that woman...” He paused, his voice lowering. “When I reflect inwardly, I feel profoundly ashamed morally. And should I leave that household... it would nullify all their past kindness.” His gaze grew distant. “Considering everything... the truth is, I feel as though I’m wandering at a crossroads. As for the wedding itself—I’ve been prolonging it under the pretext of Father’s illness.”

“This is unexpected,” said Saito. “After going abroad, your arguments have changed considerably, though...” “But when you look at it, it’s not just about arguments, is it?” “A match that others envy...” “I can’t stand all this back-and-forth.” “Ah! I’ve got it!” “You say you’ve come to hate the West,” “but the truth is...” “So you’ve contracted with one of those fashionable Golden Hair young ladies these days.” “And now you’re saying she’ll come along any day now...”

“What an outrageous suspicion! There truly is nothing of the sort, but—to put it plainly—the reason I grew to dislike it is because the purpose of sharing life’s joys and hardships together doesn’t hold up, you see. However, what you all say isn’t false. Indeed, my inner landscape has been completely transformed. When I traveled through Europe... what I had imagined here and sought through books was quite—there was a vast difference. I experienced a moment of sudden clarity and understanding—I came to realize that morality is of utmost importance to humanity.”

“Well then, and?” Shinohara: “However, when I returned home... "Father remains that Western enthusiast of his, you know." "And having been thoroughly indoctrinated in that worldview myself..." "'What hairstyles are currently fashionable in Paris?'" "'What clothing designs are trending?'" "He persists in asking solely about such matters, you see." "While I admire Western scholarship and arts..." "I remain utterly unenchanted by its customs." "This business of men and women gathering to dance..." "Strikes me as rather unbecoming." "Moreover, when unmarried youths engage in it..." "As a matrimonial strategy of sorts..." "In China they have their so-called Mid-Spring Festival for matchmaking." "Yet even that can scarcely be called free from licentiousness." "It reeks of barbaric customs stubbornly persisting." "And consider married women—" "Why forbid them from dancing with their own husbands?" "They who pledge eternal union as one flesh across a thousand generations—so the doctrine goes." "It’s precisely when husband and wife embrace to dance that—"

“It should be both interesting and enjoyable, and yet—” “Why must they insist on dancing with others?” “What if we take this to its logical extreme?” “Then you’d have to take a lover to keep things interesting.” “That would be the logical conclusion, wouldn’t it?” “With corsets binding their chests, regardless of hygiene.” “To think they would slavishly cater to vulgar tastes—” “Binding feet small in China is the pot calling the kettle black, I tell you.” “There’s no end to such examples if I were to list them all.” “That is why I am not impressed by Western customs.” “Just the other day, while nursing my father...” “Because talk of Western customs inevitably came up.” “I found myself unconsciously trotting out moral arguments.” “I brought up matters like dancing.” “Because Father insists that such things are precisely where social interaction becomes most intimate.” “To contradict an invalid... I held my tongue.” “My time abroad amounted to nothing.” “Father still spouts that rotten Chinese-style argument about separating boys and girls at seven years old!” He was met with a derisive snort. That derisive snort pierced through to his very bones, leaving him with a shuddering sensation.

And then he suddenly came to detest it all. For he owed his father both duty and gratitude. "I can't even bring myself to say I dislike it." "It truly weighs on my heart, you see."

“But even so, society’s opinion—” “That girl—no matter what official’s Madame you try to pass her off as—” “She’s socially adept enough for that.” “Such impatience…” “What you said, Mr. Saito—” “I came to dislike that official.” “Even if someone becomes an official.” “How much benefit do they imagine they can possibly bring to society?” “I revere Franklin more than Washington.” “Franklin too cannot be said not to have been an official, but—” “Washington raised the banner of righteousness in Boston.” “He united thirty-some states.” “He founded a federal union in America.” “He has now made it a country that can stand alongside European nations without shame.” “He was undoubtedly great, but—” “It’s merely that one country became militarily strong—” “It has not brought the slightest benefit to the world.” “Franklin invented electricity—” “Then he also invented the telegraph.” “Electric lights were also invented.”

“Countless nations across the world! That hundreds of millions of people’s livelihoods all depend on those benefits—isn’t that also a remarkable achievement? Even in today’s world, I would bend the knee to Lesseps over Bismarck. Bismarck brought France to its knees, made the King of Saxony of our nation the emperor of a unified Germany—he now wields control over Europe. It brings no benefit whatsoever to other countries. Lesseps is not like that. By digging the Suez Canal—what of opening transportation conveniences for all the world’s nations? Now, as for his endeavoring to complete even the Panama Canal—isn’t that truly remarkable? Even if the United States of North America had not been formed—our Japan would have no inconveniences whatsoever. If there were no telegraph, my goodness, how inconvenient that would be! Even if Germany does not become an empire—in Japan, it would be inconsequential. If Lesseps’ canal had not been dug—”

"How immeasurably they might suffer inconveniences in transport and trade." "Not Japan alone." "It must hold true everywhere." "Therefore, regarding any glory from being a government official—" "I came to see it as trifling." "I mean to pattern myself wholly after Franklin and Lesseps."

“That nervous ambition—I wholeheartedly agree.” “That’s precisely why I’ve no interest in a socially adept wife.” “I don’t desire that in the slightest.” “As for the wife I prefer—” “Complete illiteracy would pose difficulties, but—” “She must possess what’s praised as a woman’s virtue—obedience.” “If she can read at least a little, I would have her strive in household management.” “If you mix the world’s oxygen into her lively disposition—” “I’ve no fondness for such compounds as ‘spirited girls.’” “In other words, rather than being skilled at dancing, she should engage in knitting work.” “I want someone who can assist in my livelihood.”

“What? My livelihood?” “The noble lords and ladies do tend to make such stingy remarks.” “Ha ha ha ha!”

The whole group burst into laughter.

The boatman called out, “Yao-Matsuya—”

On the pier came the clatter-clatter of the tea shop woman’s geta.

The woman called out, “Good morning.”

Chapter Nine

Shinohara Tsutomu diligently applied himself at Cambridge University in England, finally earning the title of Master of Arts. Moreover, on his return journey he toured various European countries, and after enduring the passage of five years had finally returned to Japan. His adoptive father had unexpectedly been elevated to the nobility, the family’s honor reaching the utmost height through successive auspicious events. Though he wanted for nothing in his station, he had long since entered into a marriage arrangement. There were many vaguely worrisome aspects to Hamako’s demeanor. Even when elsewhere she carried an air of guilt and comported herself with restraint. What circumstances could possibly explain this? he wondered. At that very moment he noticed— the unexpected gossip of grooms and rickshaw pullers that had reached his ears. He was shocked to the core, his heart pounding violently. He had come to realize—so that was it. Moreover as various matters came to his attention they only served to nurture seeds of doubt. Hamako did not even tend to her father’s illness. As her tendency toward frequent outings became increasingly unacceptable to him he was firming his resolve to finally divorce her and withdraw from the situation. To two or three close friends he had subtly revealed those thoughts of his yet—

Truly, from early childhood they had been companions who grew up together like the wellside pair from *The Tales of Ise*. They had stood shoulder to shoulder until their frames straightened completely. Her lustrous black hair and flower-like face, her figure and features so comely, Hamako—whose learning and intellect surpassed ordinary folk— now made it unbearable for him to cast her aside. Though not one given to amorous sentiment, he could not yet resign himself to see her as a pearl left untaken. Moreover, he found it impossible to betray the affection and duty owed his adoptive parents who had raised him from youth. He agonized alone. Then came his adoptive father’s grave illness. Unable to spare himself for bedside vigil, he let matters drift. Michikata was no mere physician but one hailed as a national expert; they had even summoned Dr. Baelz from Germany for consultation. Though their treatments were thorough, what they took for slight improvement proved but death’s final rally. From the evening Tsutomu returned from summer cooling, the condition turned sudden. The next day saw departure on that journey of no return.

Tsutomu and his family's lamentations were all too evident, for a good man had been lost. There was none who did not mourn him. However, Tsutomu succeeded to his position, and once the mourning period concluded, he intended to hold the marriage ceremony with Hamako. At the persistent urging from his mother, relatives, and friends on various matters, Tsutomu candidly explained the circumstances as they stood. Since it was no baseless slander to begin with, the responses were unanimous that no one could possibly object. Tsutomu did not forget the upbringing provided by his adoptive father's kindness. Having already inherited the noble title of kazoku, he ought to receive only the hereditary property. He transferred all remaining inheritance to Hamako, deeming this acceptable to his conscience. Through an appropriate matchmaker, he had her married to Yamanaka Tadashi. He arranged for an elderly male servant long employed by the household and numerous maidservants to accompany her, secured a suitable residence nearby through his search, and settled her there. Having attended to every detail without omission, all praised how well-considered his arrangements were.

Though Tadashi had married Hamako and suddenly felt he had attained financial standing, the position of an adopted son-in-law remained much the same. Since Hamako had become like the head of the household, though there was no lack in her talent or beauty, he had been a dependent until now. In fact, he must have felt some measure of relief.

“About last night’s talk—” “Since I’ve completely figured out your game.” “Now I’ve finally cooled off, see.” “You got tired of the old hag.” “Did you think switching your haunts would work?” “You’ve got no clue how much I’ve been stewin’ over this!”

Man: “That’s right. “After all，it was through that bigwig’s referral that I even landed a government post. “They favor me every which way. “Since I figured there’s no harm in keeping their boots polished— “I was giving it my all. “They had me teaching English to that guy… “Well，just some trifle. “Couldn’t risk ruffling feathers either…”

“Enough already! That’s plenty!” “That’s exactly why it’s a problem—you’re always cutting me off like this.” “And so finally, even that crucial arrangement was settled.” “It’s a story of suddenly becoming a wealthy patron, but...” “I don’t know about them, but..."

“Enough! Shut up!”

“This doesn’t sit ill with me, but—” “That’s exactly as I explained last night.” “This scene is the crucial farce.” “Well, just a bit—I’ll distance myself from you.”

“Well, I know that part already. If you’re finally serious ’bout this,” “I’ll show my true colors as a wicked hag then.” “Might even pull an Otsuta-of-Otowaya scene.” “You’re so damn wishy-washy!” “Tread wrong one day, and you’ll end up the fool—mark me.”

“Suspicion’s all about who’s doin’ the suspectin’.” “Keep up the whimpering act and get someone to tail them.”

“That’s dangerous business.” “That’s all well and good,” “They’re keeping up appearances fine, but you’re the one getting flustered here.”

“Nonsense!” “If that’s how it is—you sure you’re up for this?” “Of course.” “Lend me your ear,” he whispered. The two whispered together for a time. This was near Shinbashi Station. In the inner second floor of a teahouse called Shinbashi-ro.

The man and woman sitting across from each other were Yamanaka Tadashi and Otsuda. Tadashi took out his watch and looked at it. "It's about time," he said as he stood up. "Will this hot spring treatment go smoothly? You don't have some man tagging along, do you?" "It's not like it's you! What reason would I have to go fooling around? If you doubt me, follow me all the way to where I board the train. Besides Okiyo, there's not even a tomcat around!"

As they bantered playfully and approached the station, the departure bell rang out—ding-a-ling, ding-a-ling.

Chapter Ten

There was likely a rickshaw puller in their employ. On the small gravel of the entrance’s carriage turnaround, water was being sprinkled incessantly.

Judging from this appearance, even if one were to estimate it modestly, it would be seen as a residence befitting a third- or fourth-rank official—Yamanaka Tadashi’s house, or so it appeared. In truth, it was a house purchased with Shinohara Hamako’s assets. Therefore, from household affairs to all social interactions, full authority rested solely in Hamako. She advocated female supremacy, herself dashing about in her private rickshaw while the master went out every morning with his waist lunchbox. On his return, he went as far as Kannonzaka-shita—the five-sen hop-on ride being his greatest pleasure. The rickshaw puller, having finished sprinkling water, was carelessly gazing at the evening scene when right before his eyes came clattering up a single rickshaw.

“Young man, this will do here,” she said as she alighted. She gave a brief greeting to this rickshaw puller. “Is Mr. Shinohara’s daughter’s residence this way…?” “I hear that lodger has vacated the premises.” “Are they in today?”

“Where might you have come from, madam?” “I don’t know.” “Go round to the back and ask there.” “In that case, I’ll be turning along this wall here.” “Understood. Thank you kindly.”

In the kitchen, O-san was cutting pickles. She heard a voice say "Excuse me." She opened the latched door.

The maid asked, “Where are you from?”

“I have come from that Yamanaka’s residence.” “I thank you for your long hospitality toward the lodging.” “This morning, I also returned, “As the lodging has been vacated.” "He told me to return immediately." “Oh, but Yamanaka’s household is here.” “Today, no one has come.” “Then would this not be the residence of Miss Shinohara?” “Yes, this is the residence.”

“If I may have the honor of meeting the young lady, matters will surely become clear.” “I am Sada from Yamanaka’s household.” “I humbly wish to have a brief audience with her.” “Please convey my request.” The maid made a puzzled face. The maid stared intently while heading to the back. “Madam.” “A woman around thirty years old—looking like a teahouse proprietress—has come.” “She says she wishes to have a brief audience with you.”

Hamako leaned her arm on the window. She was reading a women's magazine. "What kind of person?" The maid said, "She's wearing a haori jacket with an all-over small pattern." "She's quite a fashionable person." "She said various things, but I couldn't understand them." "Isn't this O-sada-san, who was once under the lord's care?" The maid said, "She said something like 'Sada' or such."

“Ah, that must be her.” “Show her in here.” “I shall have the honor of meeting her,” she said in a puzzled tone and went out. Before long, having guided her, she brought her in. “Oh my, it’s been such a long time—” “I must apologize for my prolonged absence.” “For a time, combining business with sightseeing—” “As I had gone to the Osaka area.” “That was indeed the case, wasn’t it.” “You’ve had yourself a nice little rest, haven’t you.” “That lodging has long been under your care, and I am deeply obliged.”

“Oh, who is it?” “That lodging has long been under your care.” “I said I grew lonely during my absence.” “I hear the residence has been shut tight.” “You have my deepest gratitude.” “For my part, I don’t acknowledge my present husband.” “Might I inquire who you are?” “Ohohoho! You do spin pretty fictions.” “Why—it’s that Yamanaka Tadashi of your acquaintance!” “What did you say?!” “Ohohohohoho! How preposterous!” “Whyever do you say that?”

“Why?!” Ohohohohoho!

Otsuda put on a deliberately serious expression. “Why do you laugh?” “Why?! What is Yamanaka Tadashi to me?” “He is the master of this house, you know.”

Otsuda deliberately feigned surprise. “What do you mean?” “That mansion of…” “Is that truly the case?”

“Oh, how unpleasant! Do you truly deign to ask about this? Just recently, we held a wedding ceremony…” “What was that?! A wedding… Well now! I’m utterly appalled! I’ve never even dreamt of such a thing…!” “Oh? Is that so? That wedding too, you see—there was some complication. I haven’t announced it publicly yet. We even performed the grand monogamy rite. With my own assets I purchased this house. And brought all the servants from my hometown.”

Otsuda pretended not to hear this talk, as if speaking to herself.

“Well I never! This is beyond appalling!” “That’s exactly why I warned you!” “Because Miss Shinohara’s manner seemed so suspicious.” “I told you not to let yourself be fooled!” “What do you mean?” “When have I ever done anything resembling deception?”

“I don’t know if you’re a heron or a crow,” “seducing another woman’s man,” “You’re acting all high and mighty like some fine young lady.” Hamako stared at Otsuda’s face in astonishment, yet... The other woman grew even louder. “When I come back from Osaka this time,” “to people my husband knows openly,” “It’s already been decided to get a matchmaker involved.” “Just because you’ve gone and snatched him away now,” “I can’t just sit here looking unconcerned!” “At any rate, bring out Yamanaka.” “If you ask the man himself, you’ll understand!” “Come on, hurry up and bring out your husband!”

“Even if you say such things, he isn’t here now.” “When you hurl such abuse…” “It makes me look like the villain.” “There’s also the matter of appearances to consider.” “Because it’s disgraceful…” “What’s with the high-and-mighty act?” “This ‘high-and-mighty’ act of yours!” “That’s what you call someone who thinks they’ve got money and does whatever they please.” “You stole my husband while I was away.” “You can’t just act all high and mighty like that.” “I’m so humiliated and frustrated I can’t stand it!” “Give me back my husband right now!”

“What do you mean by ‘stole’?” “To speak so abusively of someone…” “This may violate the law.” “After all, we do hold the status of nobility.”

“Well now! This is the first I’ve heard such a thing,” “Your Highness Ladle-and-Dipper over here,” “Even if you steal another’s husband,” “Doesn’t that break any laws?” “I know nothing of this ‘thievery’ you speak of.” “In any event, Yamanaka is my lawful husband…” “Someone! Remove this lunatic from my doorstep at once!” “‘Lunatic,’ you say?” “Though it pains me to boast, I’m a woman of standing.” “Arguing with this simpleton leads nowhere.” “Go on then—call your constables if you dare!”

Though her words grew increasingly intense, Hamako had been raised in the sheltered chambers of aristocracy. Such confrontations were beyond anything she could have ever imagined. She could only repeat the same phrases mechanically. When it seemed she might finally burst into tears, Steward Mitsutayu came rushing out. "What impudent deity do you take yourself for?" "Now, now—you mustn’t make Her Ladyship weep so." "You’ll only grow more brazen." "Madam," "His Lordship is not presently in residence." "As we cannot comprehend this situation," "You should return when His Lordship is at home." "I shall convey all particulars in due course."

With this, Otsuda finally quieted down. Now that matters had been brought to this stage, perhaps thinking that proceeding leisurely from here was the wisest course, and seizing upon Mitsutayu's pacifying intervention, she made her exit while raising a clamor.

Hamako’s voice quivered tearfully.

“Someone go quickly to meet him!” “Now hurry!”

And so it was not merely that night that Otsuda came. Morning and evening she came, hurling abuse and insults. Hamako was not one to be outdone. She also instructed the servants. She had them turn visitors away with nothing but claims of his absence. From then on, Yamanaka’s demeanor underwent a complete change. He began staying over at some place or other with hardly three days passing in between. In the end, unbeknownst to Hamako, Her bracelet, Her rings, and other belongings that had been on Hamako’s person— Before she knew it, they had been taken away. At last Hamako too came to realize and, upon investigating the situation, found that he had indeed been living as husband and wife with Otsuda from the very beginning. Taking advantage of Hamako’s infatuation, he had held no wedding ceremony. Having plotted to embezzle her property, In the end he had transferred nearly everything to her alone. They even began joining in on sightseeing excursions and the like. They even began parading past their own home as if to say “Behold!” Hamako was consumed by an impotent bitterness. It was originally her own doing. When she realized this, even the Shinohara family’s standing in society could not escape damage to its reputation.

The steward and those who had attended merely complied. They had imposed silence, but... What is hidden will inevitably come to light—and since this had already reached Tsutomu’s ears, he conducted an even more thorough investigation. Even the house and estate—when had it happened?— had been pledged as collateral under what was called a mortgage. It had even come to light that he had borrowed large sums of money and so forth, but... Tadashi had already resigned from his official position, especially accompanied by Otsuda, and they had made their escape to parts unknown. Since Hamako had ill-advisedly expanded her social circle— such rumors had followed in full force— she could now only gnash her teeth in futile regret. Day after day, she was consumed by tears.

Chapter 11

“Do take a seat here for a moment.” “Come rest a while and have some tea.” A woman’s voice called out. At this corner hung invitations to sit and rest. “The ever-toiling turtle tyke!” “Turtle tykes from Kikuhai—step right up, step right up!”—the hawker’s voice clamored boisterously.

The autumn dusk of Takigawa River. At the wayside tea house beneath the scattering autumn leaves, where people too were beginning to disperse. Two men were taking a brief respite. Though their bearing was not vulgar, they were rising to their feet.

“Mr. Shinohara, how about we take a stroll over that way? Since your esteemed father’s passing, you have noticeably weakened physically—it must be because your spirits aren’t lifting. There must be matters that weigh on you still, but what’s done is done, I suppose. Miss Hamako too has come to a firm realization—she appears truly remorseful now. When I visited her yesterday in Yokohama during my errands, she spoke through tears of her shame. She has become a sincere Christian through and through—not a trace remains of her former self.”

“That is entirely my sister’s fault.” “She herself has truly come to realize her mistake.” “She deeply regrets it.” “Even though she’s being quiet like that,” “she cannot openly come to meet Mother either.” “When you think about it, it’s truly pitiful.” “That’s all very true, but...” “You’re thinking of your obligations to your adoptive parents, but—” “You being so gloomy like this.” “If you were to contract tuberculosis or something, that would be even more unfilial.” “This may sound strange to say, but...” “I’m also quite the timid one myself.” “When even trivial matters start to bother me...” “I couldn’t sit still, but...” “Saito pressed my mother insistently.” “Since I married that Hattori Namiko,” “there’s nothing to brood over when I return home, I tell you.” “When I’m reading something and my spirits flag,” “I have her play the koto and serve tea,” “We also discuss literature a bit.”

“It truly lifts one’s spirits.” “With your adoptive mother being as she is,” “It’s only natural your mood grows somber.” “This may seem meddlesome, but I’ll take matters in hand.” “Do fashion yourself a Lady Shinohara.” “I was indeed quite overwrought during that Hamako affair.” “I did contemplate taking a wife surpassing her, yet...” “Now my mind holds naught but pity and practical inconveniences.” “I scarcely dwell on such things anymore.” “Ah—how our talk has descended into dry logic!”

“Hmm...” “Well, let’s go.” “Well now, someone’s gone and scribbled all over here.” “A hokku, huh?” People coming to view autumn leaves—all with red faces.

“Ahahaha!” “What nonsense.” “In places like this, waka are rare, huh?” “Wait a moment now.” “I wonder if that’s a waka poem over there.” “Oh—this is written quite neatly in pencil, isn’t it?” Would autumn leaves scatter in vain? The throng of those who see true hues.

“What a strangely impassioned poem.” “What kind of person wrote this, I wonder.” “The poem is quite good.” “It is truly a noble and excellent thing.”

“Auntie,” called the man. “I wonder if anyone could know what sort of person wrote this.” “There’s such a crowd here.”

“Let me see now...” “Ah, that would likely be the young acolyte of about fifteen.” “They did rest here together.” “It would be the young lady’s, I suppose.” “Ah… A woman…!” “It does indeed appear to be a woman’s handiwork.” “This is unmistakably in the Ki no Tsurayuki style.” “However, poetry is truly one of the arts.” “It simply must exist.” “I hear some Western enthusiasts these days dismiss it as mere plaything.” “It’s truly nothing of the sort!” “And when one composes poetry, they gain the ability to write concise yet profound prose.” “One’s mind becomes somewhat more refined.” “What on earth are girls’ schools for?” “They could include a course on waka poetry,” he muttered as they approached the opposite bank. Matsushima Ashio rested there. He quickly spotted them.

“Sis! Sis! Mr. Miyazaki is here!”

“Oh my.” “Truly, I have not had the opportunity to meet you since then.”

“Well now, what a fortunate place to meet you.” “Just the two of you here?” “Because my sister stays cooped up indoors too much,” “I persuaded her to accompany me.” “An excellent restorative outing,” “Mr. Shinohara—I’ve often spoken of you.” “This is Ms. Matsushima Hideko.” “Ms. Hideko, this gentleman has long studied abroad,” “Having earned the honorary title of Master of Arts upon his return.” “He is my dear friend, addressed as Mr. Shinohara.” “Perhaps you might become acquainted?” Hideko stepped nearer. Even had she been acknowledged, her thoughts remained unvoiced. When at last she raised her eyes, His brows arched elegantly above a noble nose. Though his mouth seemed ordinary, it held an amiable charm. That he had studied abroad— One could infer the depth of his erudition. He appeared increasingly dignified. Though his bearing held no malice,

The nobility of his demeanor and the extent of his scholarly renown were such that one could not help but be awed. Unconsciously, her nostrils must have flared. Tsutomu too had heard of her beforehand, yet encountered an unexpected meekness born of such musings. Her snow-white face flushed faintly with modesty, cheeks tinged with pale red. Her hair was tied up in a Western-style hairdo, while her attire remained modest and ordinary—a slightly too plain striped crepe with seven descending stripes. She fastened a front-folded obi of purple silk satin and yuzen-dyed figured crepe, wearing a black kenchū haori that made her attire tastefully elegant. Tsutomu, though usually gloomy and finding little joy in life... When he saw this living flower, the maple leaves' hues burned with autumnal intensity. He paled in the same manner and stood speechless. Unaware of what was transpiring, Ashio busied himself diligently. "Come this way," he urged as he led the way, whereupon Miyazaki sat down.

“Mr. Shinohara, do have a seat...” “Miss Hideko.” “It was lying under that maple tree over there.” “Might this poem perhaps be your composition?”

“Oh my, how could you…” she said with a bashful air. “Truly, until now I hadn’t known you could compose waka poetry to such degree. A person such as yourself has indeed received thorough education—" "For you’ve mastered domestic instruction through your own efforts." "The manner in which you carry yourself is truly remarkable—" "There’s no cause to let your works remain unknown and scattered." "As the saying goes—even a thousand-mile steed requires a judge of talent." “Don’t you agree, Shinohara-kun?”

“Indeed, that’s right.” “What remains hidden possesses deeper refinement.”

“Well, that’s true,” said Miyazaki, “but to dwell too much on oneself—‘How base I am! How utterly incapable!’—is excessive self-deprecation. Yet one must keep their spirit somewhat elevated while avoiding conceit. Not becoming presumptuous—that is education’s true power.”

“Say, Miss Hideko.”

“Indeed, that must be so. Though I too have studied and come to understand reason, as it were...” “My, what an ambitious Miss Hideko you are…”

“Oh my goodness, while I was listening to your story...” Before long, dusk was approaching. “We shall take our leave first.” “Ashio, let us go.”

“I see.” “Indeed, it is growing rather late.” “It’s not something that happens often with young people, I suppose.” “Goodbye—do come visit sometime.” “And do visit Mr. Shinohara here sometime as well.” “Do listen to esteemed discussions on Western customs and academics.” “I will take you along next time.”

“I humbly entreat your kind consideration.” “I most sincerely apologize for my discourtesy.” “Farewell.”

“Farewell,” said Shinohara, and together they parted ways, their sleeves brushing as they went their separate paths.

Ah, this encounter between beauty and scholar. Through the mediation of the Old Man of the Moon and Ice Matchmaker, may they deign to form a bond of love. They were simply precious to each other. They did not reveal their feelings in their expressions. They parted, keeping their emotions close. The eyes of those watching nearby must have found it quite captivating.

“Well? It seems she’s taken a liking to you, don’t you think?” “She must be the woman who meets your ideals.” “I believe there exists none other as commendable as her.”

“Oh… That’s right.” “That very aloofness proves she’s taken a liking to you. How about becoming her discerning eye?” “Because her pride stands so high.” “Well, isn’t this just what I hoped for!” When he turned at the sudden remark...

Two merchants returning from Takigawa.

“Well then, let’s make it Senuya.”

Miyazaki chuckled.

“What? Just discussing dinner plans?” “But Suehiro’s Senuya must be delighted.” “Ah… Shinohara-kun…”

Chapter Twelve

The location was Shiba Park. The Kōyōkan—a grandly constructed hall upon a modest hill— stood as the very place for holding banquets and entertainments for nobles and the wealthy. In all of Tokyo, there was none that could rival it. Its architectural refinement and culinary execution were of the highest order. Today being a celebratory occasion, carriages and rickshaws had begun arriving from around four o'clock, until even the spacious entranceway was packed to capacity. This was the wedding banquet hosted by Viscount Shinohara through Miyazaki Ichiro's mediation, celebrating his marriage to Matsushima Hideko. Had the late Viscount still been alive, a Western-style banquet would likely have been held at the Rokumeikan; however, Tsutomu's foster mother disapproved. Not only had Hideko not yet grown accustomed to Western-style social interactions, but among the relatives and friends in attendance, they still clustered around tables, preferring to be seated for the soup course rather than eating and drinking while standing. Thus, deliberately lagging behind the times, they opened the banquet here.

“My sincerest congratulations to you.” “Truly, thanks to your kindness, we have been able to welcome such a fine bride into our family. I am truly relieved,” she spoke with her mouth, yet in her eyes— a certain moistness visible about them was only natural.

Ichiro did not offer extensive congratulatory remarks. After he had slipped away, the assembled guests began to offer their felicitations one after another, each in their own manner. The ever-present Saito was in high spirits, slightly tipsy.

“Hey, Miss Namiko—no, Mrs. Miyazaki!” “Mrs. Miyazaki.” “You and that Miss Hamako—” “You two seemed quite close, but—” “It ended up like that.” “Of all days, she was supposed to be today’s guest of honor—” “How dreary isn’t it!” “Indeed it is,” replied Namiko with only a courteous acknowledgment. That she did not elaborate further— Unaware this restraint stemmed from deference to the Shinohara family’s retired matriarch seated in the place of honor, Saito then turned toward Tsutomu.

“Look here, Tsutomu—that Yamanaka fellow. “He’s not the sort who’d have the nerve for such wickedness, but—” “It all came from scrambling to please the late lord.” “Since Miss Hamako was his cherished daughter,” “From his doctrine of stove-tending flattery.” “His bootlicking grew too fervent.” “Until finally that...” “Yet even that couldn’t be helped.” “Though you’d extended him every courtesy.” “The wretch still clings to his sucking-up ways.” “To become the noblest house’s son-in-law...” “However bold a face he assumes...” “The truth stands thus.” “How could I voice such things?” “If matters proceed so, gossip lasts but seventy-five days.” “Though it must fade in time...” “That wicked hag’s instigation—” “Fool...” “He’s committed an outrageous blunder.” “Altogether, that role ill-suited his nature.”

“Rather than playing a villainous charmer—" “He’s better cast as a buffoonish antagonist." “Spineless to the core, I tell you." “From the start, he had no real purpose." “It began with currying favor with your late father." “Never meant to deceive Miss Hamako foremost." “Even that crone though—” “Her lonely chambers’ pleas wore him down." “Obligations to superiors above—" “Claims he couldn’t shame her publicly." “Odd sympathies got tangled in it all." “But once he dipped a toe—" “Now that harpy reins him tight." “Rushed through every scheme at breakneck speed." “Consider humanity at large—" “With no principles to guard—" “Just puppets dancing to others’ tunes—" “They’ll commit atrocities devoid of conviction." “Yamanaka’s cut from that cloth." “Grandly put—Xun Yu serving Cao Cao, wouldn’t you say?”

“If I were to speak of Saigō Takamori—” “Exactly as I thought.” "He was rallied by Satsuma’s champions." "Entangled in obligations that weren’t even genuine." "He was branded a traitor contrary to his true heart." "We cannot help but say he had lost what he ought to have protected." In a slightly lowered voice, he too had apparently revealed quite a lot. Lately, he had been propped up by that old hag. He might finally have been expelled. Considering this, Miss Hamako seemed increasingly pathetic. And so it became a tale oblivious to its proper context. People did nothing but exchange glances. With no one even attempting a response. At last realizing the situation, they took advantage of the drinking merriment to gloss things over. Just as they began singing a passage from their long-practiced Noh chants.

“Marriage ties are truly mysterious things. My foolish wife had long kept close company with me, yet I never imagined it would come to this. And as for you… Hmm—what with this and that, we’ve both had our share of unforeseen bonds, haven’t we?”

“Indeed, when I reflect on all that has transpired thus far, it seems quite like a novel.” “Tonight’s celebration banquet...” “It’s as if we’ve reached the ‘happily ever after’ part,” the voice declared, reaching Saito’s ears. Proclaimed in a booming voice: “Happily ever after!”

To conclude:

Matsushima Ashio later entered university. He studied engineering. After graduation, he oversaw a major civil engineering project, he came to be known among people, and later it is said he entered into marriage with Miyazaki Ichiro’s younger sister. Saito’s younger sister Matsuko and Aizawa Shina, after that entered normal school. Each of them became known for their talents and scholarship. As had long been spoken of in their aspirations, they lived as female scholars without taking husbands. Whether they spent their entire lives thus or not, their future remained beyond knowing.

The fates of Yamanaka Tadashi and Otsuda remained uncertain. The outcome was likely in line with Saito’s speculation. The people declared it so.