Page:Eminent Authors of Contemporary Japan.pdf/58

44 an the tatami of the sitting-room. The office door, which leads into this room, opens quietly, and Koyama, the Resident Policeman, comes in from his finished duty.


 * Koyama.—(Slipping off his shoes as he enters,) A shower of rain would improve the road, for it is very dusty outside.
 * Tsugi.—Yes, Father, you must be tired. You better change your clothes at once. (She brings her father’s kimono.)
 * Koyama.—I will do so now. (He removes his uniform, and puts on his kimono). There are such crowds of people outside this evening. Everyone seems to be out flower-viewing.
 * Tsugi.—Yes, Papa. Many of them are very merry too, and crowds have been passing here all day.
 * Koyama.—Well, wouldn’t you like to go for a picnic tomorrow? I will be off duty, and will very gladly mind the house for you if you care to go.
 * Tsugi.—To-morrow?
 * Koyama.—Yes, child. You look very tired and fatigued from too much nursing, and it will do you a world of good to go off for the day on a cherry-viewing trip.
 * Tsugi.—I’m sorry, Papa, but I really feel that I would rather not go. I feel as if all my energy had left me. Nothing seems to interest me these days, not even the cherry blossoms.
 * A Ragman.—(Passing the house) Rags! Rags! Any rags for sale?