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      Bright spring was dark this year. There was no relief from the sadness of the old year. Genji had callers as always, but he said that he was not well and remained in seclusion. He made an exception for his brother, Prince Hotaru, whom he invited behind his curtains.

“And why has spring so graciously come to visit

A lodging where there is none to admire the blossoms?”

The prince was in tears as he replied:

“You take me for the usual viewer of blossoms?

If that is so, I seek their fragrance in vain.”

He went out to admire the rose plum, and Genji was reminded of other springs. And who indeed was there to admire these first blossoms? He had arranged no concerts this year. In very many ways it was unlike the springs of other years.