Page:Nihongi by Aston volume 2.djvu/300

Rh At this time the Emperor visited the plain of Himo in the district of Kamafu, and inspected a site for a Palace.

Moreover, the Castle of Takayasu was repaired, and stores of grain and salt collected.

Moreover, one castle was built in Nagato, and two in Tsukushi.

3rd month, 9th day. Close to Miwi, on the mountain, Shintō places of worship were laid out, and offerings of cloth distributed to them. The litany was pronounced by Nakatomi no Kane no Muraji.

Summer, 4th month, 30th day. After midnight a fire broke out in Hōriuji. Not a single building was left.

There was great rain, with thunder.

5th month. There was a popular ditty, as follows:—

6th month. Within the capital a tortoise was caught. On its back was written the character for Saru. It was