Page:Nihongi by Aston volume 2.djvu/366

Rh The Viceroy of Tsukushi, Shima, Tajihi no Mabito, and others presented tribute of a three-legged sparrow.

All from the Princes of the Blood down to the Ministers were invited in front of the Great Hall of Audience and a banquet given them. On this occasion the three-legged sparrow was shown to the Ministers.

18th day. The Emperor issued a decree, saying:—"This is the ordinance of Us, the Emperor Yamato neko, who rule, as a God Incarnate, the great eight regions. Hear it, all ye governors of provinces, Kuni no Miyakko, governors of districts and common people! Ever since We first rose to the vast dignity, there have been auspicious signs from Heaven, not one or two only, but many. Now We learn by tradition that auspicious signs from Heaven come as a response when the principles of administering the Government are in harmony with the laws of Heaven. That they should appear repeatedly every year in this Our reign is, on the one hand, matter for awe, and on the other, matter for rejoicing. Therefore the Princes of the Blood, the Princes, with the Ministers and functionaries, as well as the people of the Empire, join with Us in our joy." Accordingly presents were made to all from the rank of Shōken upwards, each according to his rank, and all crimes were pardoned from capital offences downwards. Moreover all forced labour was remitted to the common people.

On this day there was a performance in the Court of the Woharida dance and of the music of the three countries of Koryö, Pèkché and Silla.

2nd month, 1st day. The Imperial Prince Ohotsu for the first time attended to matters of State.

3rd month, 2nd day. On the occasion of making appointments to the offices of Sōjō, Sōdzu, and Risshi, the Emperor gave command, saying:—"Let those who have general control over the priests and nuns act according to the law," etc., etc.

19th day. The Envoys sent to Tane returned.

Summer, 4th month, 15th day. The Emperor made a decree,