39

He and Yu~giri left in the same carriage.

“We were right to pay our visit,” said Yu~giri. “I fear the poor man is bored. We must find time for another before the blossoms have fallen. Do come again and bring your bow with you, and help us enjoy the last of the spring.”

They agreed upon a day.

“I gather that your father spends most of his time in the east wing. His regard for the lady there seems really extraordinary.” And Kashiwagi went on to say perhaps more than he should have. “What effect do you suppose it has on the Third Princess? She has always been her father's favorite. It must be a new experience for her.”

“Nonsense. It is true that the lady in the east wing has a rather particular place in his life, but that is because he took her in when she was still a child. But he is very good to the princess.”

“You needn't try to distort the facts. I know quite well enough what they are. People tell me that she has a sad time of it. Nothing in her background can have prepared her.

“The generous warbler, moving from tree to tree,

Neglects the cherry alone among them all.”

And he added softly: “And the cherry, among them all, seems right for the bird of spring.” *

This seemed downright impertinent, though Yu~giri did think he un-derstood his friend's reasons.

“The cuckoo building its nest in mountain depths

Does not, be assured, neglect the cherry blossom.

“Surely, sir, you are not asking that he give her the whole of his attention?”

Wishing to hear no more, he changed the subject, and presently they went their separate ways.