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      Kaoru made the usual offerings of images and scriptures at the main Hiei monastery and the next day went to Yokawa. The bishop received his unexpected visitor with much ceremony. Although Kaoru had occasion-ally consulted him on liturgical matters, they had not been close. Kaoru had been much impressed at the effectiveness of the bishop's recent ministrations to the First Princess, however. The new bond between them, thought the bishop, fluttering with excitement over the visit, had brought this eminent gentleman so far out of his way. They talked on and on, like the oldest and most intimate of friends. A light repast was brought.

“I believe you have a house in Ono?” remarked Kaoru when the excitement had subsided.

“Yes, a shabby little place. As a matter of fact, my mother is living there—she is a nun, and a very old woman. I had no place in the seemed right, and I decided that if I was to live up here away f world I wanted her to be where I could look in on her at any od

“I have heard that Ono used to be lively enough, but that years it has been neglected. Indeed, they say it is rather lonely.” He lowered his voice. “But tell me. I have hesitated to mention it because I have not been sure of the facts and I have been afraid you might think me forward and a little eccentric. I have heard that a person I once knew well is hiding there. I thought that when I had learned a few of the facts I might ask you exactly what had happened, and now I hear that you have taken her under your protection and made a nun of her. Might I ask whether it is true? She is very young and her parents are living, and I feel somewhat responsible for her disappearance.”