Page:Tayama Katai and His Novel Entitled Futon (Reece).pdf/243

 social intercourse with men; and Japanese modern women should follow in their footsteps. Although these were the themes of his principle lessons, he put particular emphasis on matters concerning modern women.

Yoshiko listened with her head bowed.

Driven by interest Tokio said, "Well then, how is he planning to make a living?"

"He has a small amount of savings, I believe it will last for a month or so...."

"I hope he'll find some appropriate work...." said Tokio.

"To tell the truth, he came up to Tokyo although he had no acquaintances here hoping to depend on your help....so he was very much disappointed...."

"But he's too reckless. I thought so when I met him the day before yesterday, too. In any case, if he acts like that he's helpless," Tokio laughed.

"Please reconsider helping him. Although I have no excuse for giving you more trouble...." Yoshiko blushed and begged for help.

"Better not to worry, it'll come out all right."

After Yoshiko left, Tokio's face suddenly became grim. "Can I handle this love affair? Can I...?" he cross-examined himself. "A young bird should be mated with a young bird. A person of my age no longer has beautiful wings to attract this young bird." When he thought this, he was overcome with an indescribable loneliness. "People say that wife and children are the pleasures of the family, but what meaning do they have? The wife who is living for her children