Page:Brinkley - Japan - Volume 2.djvu/208

 acter in general tended to assume under certain conditions.

The rules of conduct prescribed for the bushi varied, more or less, in different fiefs, each feudal chief enacting his own code. As a general type it will be sufficient to quote one set of regulations—those formulated by Katō Kiyomasa, a celebrated general of the sixteenth century:—

The following regulations are to be observed by samurai of every rank, the highest and the lowest alike:

1. The routine of service must be strictly observed. From six military exercises shall be practised. Archery, gunnery, and equestrianism must not be neglected. If any man shows greater proficiency than his comrades in the way of the bushi, he shall receive extra pay.

2. Those that desire recreation may engage in hawking, deer-hunting, or wrestling.

3. With regard to dress, garments of cotton or pongee shall be worn. Any one incurring debts owing to extravagance of costume or living shall be considered a law-breaker. If, however, being zealous in the practice of military arts suitable to his rank, a man desires to hire instructors, an allowance for that purpose may be granted to him.

4. The staple of diet shall be unhulled rice. At social entertainments, one guest for one host is the proper limit. Only when men are assembled for military exercises should many dine together.

5. It is the duty of every samurai to make himself acquainted with the principles of his craft. Extravagant displays of adornment are forbidden in battle.

6. Dancing, or organising dances, is unlawful : it is likely to betray sword-carrying men to acts of vio-