Page:Anthology of Japanese Literature.pdf/177

Rh Seeing several of the servants rush out of her room tumbling over one another and screaming with laughter the lady’s father asked them what had happened, and at the mention of a snake exclaimed in great consternation, “A nice trick to play upon a young woman! I cannot understand anyone doing such a dastardly thing. A fine pack of rascals you are, to run off like this and leave her with a dangerous viper in the room.” So saying, he seized his sword and brandishing it over his head rushed to his daughter’s side. But the moment he saw the snake a doubt crossed his mind and examining it attentively he discovered it was only an extremely well-made toy. Picking it up he said, “I remember now that I have heard people say how clever the fellow is at making things of this sort. You must be sure to write at once and thank him for his kindness.” When it was known that the snake was only a toy the people who had run away from it declared the joke to be a very silly one. But the lady agreed that it would be rude not to reply and taking a stout, sensible-looking sheet of paper she wrote the following poem, not in hiragana, which she never used, but in katakana: “If indeed we are fated to meet, not here will it be, but in Paradise, thou crafty image of a snake.” And at the side was written: “In the Garden of Blessings you must plant your seed.”

It happened that a certain Captain of Horse saw this letter and being much struck with it he determined to obtain an interview with the writer. Choosing a time when he knew her father to be busy elsewhere, he posted himself at a wattled gate on the woman’s side of the house and peeped in. Several little boys were poking about among some very dull-looking bushes and shrubs. Presently one of them called out, “Just look at these bushes! They’re simply covered with creatures. It’s the best place we have ever found.” And going to the window he pulled the blind. “Do look at them,” he said again. “You can see them from the window. Aren’t they the loveliest caterpillars you ever saw?” “Yes, they’re not at all bad,” said a voice from within. “You may bring them in here if you like.” “I’ve