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Speaker 1 (00:00):
Section thirteen of Genji Monogotari by Murasaki Shikibu. This LibriVox
recording is in the public domain. Section thirteen Suma Exile
at Suma, Genji at last made up his mind to
undergo a voluntary exile before the opinion of the Imperial
Court should be publicly announced against him. He heard that
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the beautiful sea coast along Suma was a most suitable
place for retirement, and that though formerly populous, there were
now only a few fishermen's dwellings scattered here and there.
To Suma. He finally determined to go into voluntary exile.
When he had thus made up his mind, he became
somewhat regretful to leave the capital, although it had hitherto
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appeared ungenial. The first thing which disturbed his mind was
the young Violet, whom he could not take with him.
The young lady, also in the villa of Fallen Flowers,
notwithstanding that he was not a frequent visitor, was another
object of his regret. In spite of these feelings, he
prepared to set off at the end of March, and
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at length it came within a few days of the
time fixed for his departure, When he went privately, under
the cover of the evening to the mansion of the
ex sadai Jin in an ajuro carriage generally used by women.
He proceeded into the inner apartments, where he was greeted
by the nurse of his little child. The boy was
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growing fast, was able to stand by this time, and
to toddle about and run into Genji's arms when he
saw him. The latter took him on his knees, saying, ah,
my good little fellow, I have not seen you for
some time. But you do not forget me, do you.
The ex sadai Jin now entered. He said, often have
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I thought of coming to have a talk with you,
But you see, my health has been very bad of late,
and I seldom appear at court. Having resigned my office,
it would be in politic to give cause to be
talked about, and for it to be said that I
stretch my old bones when private matters please me. Of course,
I have no particular reason to fear the world. Still,
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if there is anything dreadful, it is the demagogical world.
When I see what unpleasant things are happening to you,
which were no more probable than that the heavens should fall.
I really feel that everything in the world is irksome
to me. Yes, what you say is indeed true, replied Genji. However,
all things in the world, this or that, are the
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outcome of what we have done in our previous existence. Hence,
if we dive to the bottom, we shall see that
every misfortune is only the result of our own negligence.
Examples of men's losing the pleasures of the court are
indeed not wanting. Some of these cases may not go
so far as a deprivation of titles and honors as
is mine. Still, if one us banished from the pleasures
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of court behaves himself as unconcernedly as those to whom
no such misfortune has happened, this would not be becoming so,
at least it is considered in a foreign country. Repentance
is what one ought to expect in such circumstances, and
banishment to a far off locality is a measure generally adopted,
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but offenses different from ordinary ones. If I, simply, relying
on my innocence, pass unnoticed the recent displeasure of the court,
this would only bring upon me greater Dishonor I have
therefore determined to go into voluntary exile before receiving such
a sentence from the court. Then the conversation fell back
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as usual on the times of the late ex emperor,
which made them sad, while the child, also, who innocently
played near, made them still more gloomy. The ex sadai
Jin went on to say, there is no moment when
I ever forget the mother of the boy. But now
I almost dare to think that she was fortunate in
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being short lived and being free from witnessing the dream
like sorrow we now suffer. With regard to the boy.
The first thing which strikes me as unbearable is that
he may pass some time of his lovely childhood away
from the gaze of your eyes. There are, as you say,
no want of instances of persons suffering and miserable fate
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without having committed any real offense. Yet still in such
cases there was some pretext to justify their being so treated.
I cannot see any such against you. While he was
thus speaking, Tourno Chiujo joined them, and, partaking of sake,
they continued their conversation till late in the evening This night.
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Genji remained in the mansion. Early the next morning, he
returned to his own residence, and he spent the whole
day with Violet in the western wing. Should he be
noticed that she was scarcely ever with her father, even
from childhood. He strongly disapproved of his daughter being with Genji,
and of the way in which she had been carried off,
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so he scarcely ever had any communication with her, or
did he visit her. These circumstances made her feel Genji's
affection more keenly than she otherwise would have. Hence her
sorrow at the thought of parting with him in a
few days may be easily imagined. Towards the evening, Prince
Sotts came with ton Chiojo and some others to pay
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him a visit. Genji, in order to receive them, rose
to put on one of his naoshi, which was playing
without pattern, as proper for one who had no longer
a title. Approaching the mirror to comb his hair, he
noticed that his face had grown much thinner. Oh, how
changed I appeared, he exclaimed. Am I really like this
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image which I see of myself? He said, turning to
the girl, who cast on him a sad and tearful glance.
Genji continued, though changed I wander far away, my soul
shall still remain with you. Perhaps in this mirror's mystic ray,
my face may linger still in view. To this, Violet replied,
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if in this mirror I could see always your face,
then it would be my consolation when thou art gone.
As she said this, she turned her face to one
side of the room, and by doing so obscured the
tears gathering in her soft eyes. Genji then left her
to receive his friends, who however, did not remain long,
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Leaving the mansion after a short conversation of a consolatory nature.
This evening, Genji paid his visit to the sisters of
the Falling Flower Villa. On the following day, the final
arrangements necessary for his household affairs were made at his residence.
The management of the mansion was entrusted to a few
confidential friends, while that of his lands and passers, and
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the charge of his documents were entrusted to the care
of Violet, to whom he gave every instruction what she
should do. Besides, he enjoined Shionagon, in whom he placed
his confidence, to give her every assistance. He told all
the inmates who wished to remain in the mansion in
order to await his return that they might do so.
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He also made an appropriate present to the nurse of
his boy and to the ladies of the Villa of
Fallen Flowers. When all these things were accomplished, he occupied
himself in writing farewell letters to his intimate friends, such
as the young daughter of udai Jin, and others, to
none of whom he had paid a visit. On the
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evening prior to his departure, he went on horseback to
visit the tomb of his father. On his way, he
called on the Princess Wisteria, and thence proceeded to the
mountain where the remains reposed. The tomb was placed among
tall growing grass under thickened, gloomy foliage. Benji advanced to
the two man, half kneeling down before it and half sobbing,
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muttered many words of remembrance and sorrow. Of course, no
reply came forth. The moon by this time was hidden
behind dark clouds, and the winds blew keen and nipping.
When suddenly a shadowy phantom of the dead stood before
Genji's eyes. How would his image look on me? Knew
he the secret of the past, as yonder moon in
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clouded sky looks o'er the sea. Mysteriously. He returned to
his mansion late in the night. Early in the morning
he sent a letter to o Miobu, the nurse of
the Air Apparent, in which he said, I at last
leave the capital to day. I know not when I
may come and see the Prince again. On him, my
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thoughts and anxieties are concentrated above all. Else, realize these
feelings in your own mind and tell them to him.
He also sent the following, fastened to a bow of
flowers already becoming thin, When shall I see these scenes again?
And view the flowers of spring in blue like rustic
from his mountain home? And mere spectator shall I come?
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These were carefully read by o Yobu to the Prince,
and when he was asked what she should write in answer,
he said, write that I said that, since I feel
every longing to see him when I do not see
him for a long time, how shall I feel when
he goes away? Altogether? Thereupon she wrote an answer in
which she indefinitely stated that she had shown the letter
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to the Prince, whose answer was simple yet very affectionate,
And so on with the following tis sad that fair
blossoms so soon fade away. In the darkness of winter,
no flower remains. But let spring return with its sunshiny ray.
Then once more the flowers we look on again. Now
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with regard to the recent disgrace of Genji, the public
in general did not approve of the severity which the
court had shown to him. Moreover, he had been constantly
with the Emperor his father, since the age of seven,
and his requests had always been cheerfully listened to by
the latter. Hence, there were very many, especially among public
servants of the ordinary class, who were much indebted to him. However,
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none of them now came to pay their respects to him.
It seems that in a world of intrigue, none dares
do what is right for fear of risking his own interests.
Such being the state of things. Genji, during the whole
day was unoccupied, and the time was entirely spent with Violet. Then,
at his usual late hour in the evening, he, in
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a traveling dress of incognito, at length left the capital,
where he had passed five and twenty years of his life.
His attendants karamidz and Yoshikio, being among them, were seven
or eight in number. He took with him little luggage,
All ostentatious robes, all unnecessary articles of luxury were dispensed with.
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Among things taken was a box containing the works of
hakrak Ten, a famous Chinese poet, with other books, and
besides these, a king Koto for his amusement. They barked
in a boat and sailed down the river. Early the
next morning they arrived at the sea coast of Naniwa.
They noticed the Oye Palace standing lonely amidst the group
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of pine trees. The sight of this palace gave a
thrill of sadness to Genji, who was now leaving and
not returning home. He saw the waves rolling on the
coast and again sweep back. He hummed as he saw them.
The waves roll back, But unlike me, they come again
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from Naniwa. They continued their voyage, sailing in the bay.
As they proceeded, they looked back on the scenes they
had left. They saw all the mountains in haze, growing
more and more distant. While the rowers gently pulled against
the rippling waves, it seemed to them as if they
were really going Three thousand miles distant. Our home is
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lost in the midst of the mountain. Let us gaze
on the sky, which is ever the same. The day
was long and the wind was fair, so they soon
arrived at the coast of Suma. The place was near
the spot where the exiled Yukihiro had lived and had
watched the beautiful smoke rising from the salt ovens. There
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was a thatched house in which the party temporarily took
up their residence. It was a very different home from
what they had been used to, and it might have
appeared even novel had these circumstances of their coming there
been different. The authorities of the neighborhood were sent for
and a lodge was built under the direction of Yoshikiya.
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In accordance with Genji's wishes. The work was harried on
and the building was soon completed. In the garden, several trees,
cherries and others were planted, and water was also conducted
into it. Here Genji soon took up his abode. The
governor of the province, who had been at court, secretly
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paid attention to the prince with as much respect as
was possible. For some time, Genji did not feel settled
in his new residence when he had become in some
degree accustomed to it. The season of continuous reign had arrived,
May his thoughts more than ever reverted to the old capital.
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The thoughtful expression of Violet's face, the childish affection of
the heir apparent, and the innocent playfulness of his little
son became the objects of his reveries and anxiety. Nor
did he forget his old companions and acquaintances. He therefore
sent a special messenger to the capital bearing his letters,
so that speedy answer might be returned from every quarter.
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He also sent a messenger to Isse to make inquiry
after the lady, who also sent one to him in return. Now,
the young daughter of udai Jin had been remaining repentingly
in the mansion of her father ever since the events
of the stormy evening. Her father felt much for her
and interceded with the Empress mother in her behalf, and
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also with her son, that is, the Emperor, thus getting
permission to introduce her once more into court, an event
which took place in the month of July. To return
to Suma, the rainy season had passed and autumn arrived.
The sea was at some distance from the residence of Genji,
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that the dash of its waves sounded close to their
ears as the winds passed by, of which Yukihira sang,
the autumn wind which passes the barrier of Suma. The
autumn winds are, it seems in such a place as this,
far more plaintive than elsewhere. It happened one evening that,
when all the Atte pendants were fast asleep, Genji was
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awake and alone. He raised his head and rested his
arms on his pillow and listened to the sound of
the waves which reached his ear from a distance. They
seemed nearer than ever, as though they were coming to
flood his pillows. He drew akin towards him and struck
a melancholy air as he hummed a verse of a
poem in a low tone. With this, everyone awoke and
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responded with a sigh. Such was a common occurrence in
the evening, and Genji always felt saddened whenever he came
to think that all his attendants had accompanied him, having
left their families and homes simply for his sake. In
a daytime, however, there were changes. He would then enjoy
pleasant conversations He also joined several papers into long rolls
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on which he might practice penmanship. He spent a good
deal of time in drawing and sketching. He remembered how Yoshikio,
on one occasion in Mount Kurama, had described the beautiful
scenery of the place on which he was now gazing.
He sketched every beautiful landscape of the neighborhood and collected
them in albums, thinking how nice it would be if
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he could send for sun Nannaurri, a renowned contemporary artist,
and get him to paint the sketches which he had made.
Out of all the attendants of Genji, there had been
four or five who had been more especially his favorites,
and who had constantly attended on him. One evening, they
were all sitting together in a corridor which commanded a
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full view of the sea. They perceived the island of
Awaji lying in the distance as if it were floating
on the horizon, and also several boats with sailors singing
as they rowed to the shore over the calm surface
of the water, like water fowl in their native element.
Over their heads, flocks of wild geese rustled on their
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way homeward with their plaintive cry, which made the thoughts
of the spectators revert to their homes. Genji hung this verse,
those wandering birds above us, flying, do they are far
our friends resemble with their voice of plaintive crying, make
us full of thoughtful sighing. Yoshikio took up the idea
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and replied, though these birds no friends of ours are,
and we to them are naught. Yet their voice in
these still hours bring those old friends to our thought.
Then krimids continued, Before to day, I always thought they
flew on pleasure's wing alone, But now their fate to
me is fraught with some resemblance to our own. Ukon
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No diieou added, though we like them, have left our
home to wander forth. Yet still from me there's joy
to think where'er I roam? My faithful friends are still
with me. Ukon No Diieu was the brother of kim
no Kami. His father, Yeo no Kami, had now been
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promoted to Hitachi no Kami, governor of Hitachi, and had
gone down to that province. But ukon no Jio did
not join his father, who would have gladly taken him,
and faithfully followed Genji This evening happened to be the
fifteenth of August, on which day a pleasant reunion is
generally held at the Imperial Palace. Genji looked at the silvery,
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pale sky, and as he did so, the affectionate face
of the Emperor his brother, whose expressions strikingly resembled their fathers,
presented itself to his mind. After a deep and long sigh,
he returned to his couch, humming as he went, here
is still a robe his Majesty gave to me. It
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should be here, noticed that he had been presented by
the Emperor on a certain occasion with a robe, and
this robe he had never parted with, even in his exile.
About this time, Dayeni, the senior secretary to the Lord
lu Lieu, tenant of Kiushio, returned to the capital with
his family, having completed his official term. His daughter had
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been a virgin dancer and was known to Genji. They
preferred to travel by water and slowly sailed up along
the beautiful coast. When they arrived at Suma, the distant
sound of a kin was heard, mingled with the sea
coast wind, and they were told that Genji was there
in exile. Dami therefore sent his son Chisu no Kami
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to the prince with these words, coming back from a
distant quarter, I expected, as soon as I should arrive
in the capital to have had the pleasure of visiting
you and listening to your pleasant voice, and talking of
events which have taken place there. But little did I
think that you had taken up your residence in this
part of the country. How greatly do I sympathize with you.
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I ought to land and see you at once, but
there are too many people in the same boat. Therefore,
I think it better to avoid the slightest grounds which
may cause them to talk. However, possibly I shall pay
you a visit soon. This Chiksen no Kami had been
for some time previously a kuran, a sort of equiry
to Genji. Therefore his visit was especially welcome to him.
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He said that since he had left the capital, it
had become difficult to see any of his acquaintances, and
that therefore this especial visit was a great pleasure to him.
His reply to the message of Daini was to the
same effect. Chigsen no Kalmi soon took his leave, and,
returning to the boat, reported to his father and others
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all he had seen. His sister also wrote to Genji privately, thus, pray,
excuse me if I am too bold, know you not.
The mind is swayed like the tow rope of our boat,
and the sounds your kin has made, which around us
sweetly flowed. When Genji received this, his pleasure was expressed
by his placid smile, and he sent back the following.
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If this music moves the mind so greatly as you say,
no one would care to leave behind these lonely waves
of Suma's bay. This recalls to our mind that there
was in the olden time an exile who gave a stanza,
even to the postmaster of a village. Why then should
not Genji have sent to her whom he knew, this stanza.
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In the meantime, as time went on, more sympathizers with
Genji were found in the capital, including no less a
personage than the Emperor himself. Sure it is that before
Genji left many, even of his relatives and most intimate friends,
refrained from paying their respects to him. But in the
course of time not a few began to correspond with him,
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and sometimes they communicated their ideas to each other in
pathetic poetry. These things reached the ears of the Empress Mother,
who was greatly irritated by them. She said, the only
thing a man who has offended the court should do
is to keep himself as quiet as possible. It is
most unpardonable that such a man should haughtily cause scandal
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to the court from his humble dwelling. Does he intend
to imitate the treacherous example of one who made a
deer pass for a horse. Those who intrigue with such
a man are equally blameable. These fightful remarks once more
put a stop to the correspondents. Meanwhile, at Suma, the
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autumn passed away and winter succeeded, with all its dreariness
of scene and with occasional falls of snow. Genji often
spent the evening in playing upon the King, being accompanied
by Koromitz's flute and the singing of Yoshikio. It was
on one of these evenings that the story of a
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young Chinese court lady who had been sent to the
frozen land of barbarians occurred to Genji's mind. He thought,
what a great trial it would be if one were
obliged to send away one whom he loved like the
lady in the tale. And as he reflected on this
with some melancholy feelings, it appeared to him as vividly
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as if it were only an event of yesterday, and
he hummed the sound of the piper's distant strain broke
on her dreams in the frozen eve. He then tried
to sleep, but could not do so, and as he lay,
the distant cry of Judoori reached his ears. He hummed
again as he heard them. Although on lonely couch, I
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lie without a mate, yet still so near adorn the
cries of Judori with their fond mates tis sweeked to hear.
Having washed his hands, he spent some time in reading
a Kiyo Sacha, and in this manner the winter time
passed away. Towards the end of February, the young cherry
trees which Benji had planted in his garden blossomed, and
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this brought to his memory the well known cherry tree
in the Southern Palace, and the fate in which he
had taken part, the noble countenance of the late ex
Emperor and that of the present one, the then heir apparent,
which had struck him much at that time, returned to
his recollection with the scene where he had read out
his poem while on the lordly crowd, I muse which
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haunts the royal festive hours. The day has come when
I put on the crown of fairest cherry flowers while
thust meditating on the past. Strange to say, Tono Tchioju,
Genji's brother in law, came from the capital to see
the prince. He had been now made Saishio Privy counselor,
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having therefore more responsibility, he had to be more cautious
in dealing with the public. He had, however, a personal
sympathy with Genji, and thus came to see him at
the risk of offending the court. The first thing which
struck his eyes was not the natural beauty of the scenery,
but the style of Genji's residence, which showed the novelty
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of pure Chinese fashion. The enclosure was surrounded by a
trelliswork of bamboo with stone steps and pillars of pine tree.
He entered, and the pleasure of Genji and Tono Tchiujo
was immense, so much so that they shed tears. The
style of the prince's dress next attracted the attention of
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ton Tchiujo. He was habited in a plain, simple country style,
the coat being of an unforbidden color, a dull yellow,
the trousers of a subdued green. The furniture was all
of a temporary nature, with go and sugarok playing boards
as well as one for the game of dagi. He
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noticed some articles for the services of religion, showing that
Genji was wont to indulge in devotional exercises. The visitor
told Genji many things on the subject of affairs in
the capital, which he had been longing to impart to
him for many months past, telling him also how the
grandfather of his boy always delighted in playing with him,
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and giving him many more interesting details. Several fishermen came
with the fish which they had caught. Genji called them
in and made them show their spoils, who also led
them to talk of their lives spent on the sea,
and each, in his own peculiar local dialect, gave him
a narration of his joys and sorrows. He then dismissed
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them with a gift of some stuff to make them clothing.
All this was quite a novelty to the eyes of
Tonu Tiojo, who also saw the stable, in which he
obtained a glimpse of some horses. The attendants at the
time were feeding them. Dinner was presently served, at which
the dishes were necessarily simple yet tasteful. In the evening,
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they did not retire to rest early, but spent their
time in continuing their conversation and in composing verses. Although
Tonu Tchiujo had in coming risked the displeasure of the court,
he still thought it better to avoid any possible slander,
and therefore he made up his mind to set out
for his home early next morning. The sake cup was offered,
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and they partook of it as they harmed in our
parting cup, the tears of sadness fall. Several presents have
been brought from the capital for Genji by Tonu Tchiujo,
and in return the former made him a present of
an excellent dark colored horse, and also a celebrated flute
as a token of remembrance. As the sun shed forth,
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his brilliant rays turner Tiojo took his leave, and as
he did so, he said, when shall I see you again?
You cannot be here long. Genji replied, your noble crane
that soars on high and hovers in the clear blue sky,
believe my soul as pure and light, as spotless as
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the spring day bright. However, a man like me, whose
fortune once becomes adverse, seldom regains even in the case
of great wisdom, the prosperity he once fully enjoyed. And
so I cannot predict when I may find myself again
in the capital. So ton no Chiojo, having replied, as
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follows the crane mounts up on high, tis true. But
now his sores and cries alone, still fondly thinking of
his friend with whom in former days, he flew set
off on his homeward road, leaving Genji cast down for
some time. Now. The coast of Akashi is a very
short distance from Suma, and there lived the former governor
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of the province, now a priest of whom we have
spoken before. Yoshikiyo well remembered his lovely daughter, and after
he came to Suma with Genji, he wrote to her.
Now and then he did not get any answer from her,
but sometimes heard from her father, to whom Genji's exile
became soon known, and who wished to see him for
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a reason not altogether agreeable to himself. It should be
remembered that this old man always entertained aspirations on behalf
of his daughter, and in his eyes the successive governors
of the province who came after him and whose influence
had been unbounded, were considered as nobody's. To him, his
young daughter was everything, and he used to send her
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twice a year to visit the temple of Sumiyoshi in
order that she might obtain good fortune by the blessing
of the god. She was not of an ideal beauty,
but yet expressive in countenance and exalted in mind. She could,
in this respect rival any of those of high birth
in the capital. The priest said one day to his wife,
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Prince Genji, the imperial son of the Koyi of Kiritsubo,
is now at Sumar in exile, having offended the court,
How fortunate it would be if we could take the
opportunity of presenting our child to him. The wife replied, Ah,
how dreadful. When I heard what the townspeople talk, I
understood that he has several mistresses. He went even so
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far as to carry on a secret intimacy, which happened
to be obnoxious to the emperor, and it is said
that this offense was the cause of his exile. I
have some reason for mentioning this to you, he interrupted impatiently.
It is not a thing which you understand, So make
up your mind. I shall bring the matter about and
take an opportunity of making him come to us, no
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matter how distinguished a person he is, replied the wife.
It is a fact that he has offended the court
and is exiled. I do not understand why you could
take a fancy to such a man for our maiden daughter.
It is not a joking matter. I hope you will
take it into graver consideration. That a man of ability
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and distinction could meet with adverse fortune is a very
common occurrence, said he still more obstinately, both in our
empire and in that of China. How then, do you
venture to say such things again? Since the Prince your
mother was the daughter of an Azechi da Nagan, who
was my uncle, she enjoyed a good reputation, and when
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she was introduced to court, became both prosperous and distinguished.
Although her life was shortened by the suffering caused by
the fierce jealousy of her rivals. She left behind the
royal child, who is no other person than Prince Genji.
A woman should always be aspiring, as this lady was.
What objection, then, is there in the idea of introducing
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our only child to a man like him? Though I
am now only a country gentleman, I do not think
he would withdraw his favor from me. Such were the
opinions of this old man, and hence his discouragement of
the advances of Yoshikiyo. The first of March came and
Genji was persuaded by some to perform a Harai prayer
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for purification before the coming occasion of the third. He
therefore said for a calendar priest, with whom he went
out accompanied by attendants, to the sea shore. Here a
tent was erected ceremoniously, and the priest began his prayers,
which were accompanied by the launching of a small boat
containing figures representing human images. On seeing this, Genji said,
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never thought I, in my younger day, to be thrown
on the wild sea shore, and like these figures, to
float away and perhaps see my home no more. As
he contemplated the scene around him. He perceived that the
wild surface of the sea was still and calm, like
a mirror without its frame. He offered prayers in profound silence,
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and then exclaimed, oh, or ye, eight millions of gods
hear my cry, or give me your sympathy aid me
I pray for when I look over my life, Nor
did I commit any wrong or my fellow's betray Suddenly,
as he spoke these words, the wind arose and began
to blow fiercely. The sky became dark, and torrents of
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rain soon followed. This caused great confusion to all present,
and each ran back to the house without finishing the
ceremony of prayers. None of them were prepared for the storm,
and all got drenched with the rain. From this, the
rain continued to pour down, and the surface of the
sea became as it were, capestried with white over which
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the lightning darted and the thunder rolled. It seemed as
if thunderbolts were crashing overhead, and the force of the
rain appeared to penetrate the earth. Everyone was frightened, for
they thought the end of the world was near. Genji
occupied his time in quietly reading his Buddhist Bible in
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the evening, the thunder became less loud, though the wind
still blew not less violently than in the daytime. Everyone
in the residence said that they had heard of what
is termed a flood tide, which often caused a great
deal of damage, but that they had never whiped in
such a scene as they had that day. Genji dropped
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off into a slumber when indistinctly the resemblance of a
human figure came to him and said, you are requested
to come to the palace. Why don't you come. Genji
was startled by the words and awoke. He thought that
the King of the Dragon Palace might have admired him,
and was perhaps the author of this strange dream. These
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thoughts made him weary of remaining at Suma. End of
section thirty
Section thirteen of Genji Monogotari by Murasaki Shikibu. This LibriVox
recording is in the public domain. Section thirteen Suma Exile
at Suma, Genji at last made up his mind to
undergo a voluntary exile before the opinion of the Imperial
Court should be publicly announced against him. He heard that
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the beautiful sea coast along Suma was a most suitable
place for retirement, and that though formerly populous, there were
now only a few fishermen's dwellings scattered here and there.
To Suma. He finally determined to go into voluntary exile.
When he had thus made up his mind, he became
somewhat regretful to leave the capital, although it had hitherto
(00:47):
appeared ungenial. The first thing which disturbed his mind was
the young Violet, whom he could not take with him.
The young lady, also in the villa of Fallen Flowers,
notwithstanding that he was not a frequent visitor, was another
object of his regret. In spite of these feelings, he
prepared to set off at the end of March, and
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at length it came within a few days of the
time fixed for his departure, When he went privately, under
the cover of the evening to the mansion of the
ex sadai Jin in an ajuro carriage generally used by women.
He proceeded into the inner apartments, where he was greeted
by the nurse of his little child. The boy was
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growing fast, was able to stand by this time, and
to toddle about and run into Genji's arms when he
saw him. The latter took him on his knees, saying, ah,
my good little fellow, I have not seen you for
some time. But you do not forget me, do you.
The ex sadai Jin now entered. He said, often have
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I thought of coming to have a talk with you,
But you see, my health has been very bad of late,
and I seldom appear at court. Having resigned my office,
it would be in politic to give cause to be
talked about, and for it to be said that I
stretch my old bones when private matters please me. Of course,
I have no particular reason to fear the world. Still,
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if there is anything dreadful, it is the demagogical world.
When I see what unpleasant things are happening to you,
which were no more probable than that the heavens should fall.
I really feel that everything in the world is irksome
to me. Yes, what you say is indeed true, replied Genji. However,
all things in the world, this or that, are the
(02:37):
outcome of what we have done in our previous existence. Hence,
if we dive to the bottom, we shall see that
every misfortune is only the result of our own negligence.
Examples of men's losing the pleasures of the court are
indeed not wanting. Some of these cases may not go
so far as a deprivation of titles and honors as
is mine. Still, if one us banished from the pleasures
(03:01):
of court behaves himself as unconcernedly as those to whom
no such misfortune has happened, this would not be becoming so,
at least it is considered in a foreign country. Repentance
is what one ought to expect in such circumstances, and
banishment to a far off locality is a measure generally adopted,
(03:21):
but offenses different from ordinary ones. If I, simply, relying
on my innocence, pass unnoticed the recent displeasure of the court,
this would only bring upon me greater Dishonor I have
therefore determined to go into voluntary exile before receiving such
a sentence from the court. Then the conversation fell back
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as usual on the times of the late ex emperor,
which made them sad, while the child, also, who innocently
played near, made them still more gloomy. The ex sadai
Jin went on to say, there is no moment when
I ever forget the mother of the boy. But now
I almost dare to think that she was fortunate in
(04:05):
being short lived and being free from witnessing the dream
like sorrow we now suffer. With regard to the boy.
The first thing which strikes me as unbearable is that
he may pass some time of his lovely childhood away
from the gaze of your eyes. There are, as you say,
no want of instances of persons suffering and miserable fate
(04:27):
without having committed any real offense. Yet still in such
cases there was some pretext to justify their being so treated.
I cannot see any such against you. While he was
thus speaking, Tourno Chiujo joined them, and, partaking of sake,
they continued their conversation till late in the evening This night.
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Genji remained in the mansion. Early the next morning, he
returned to his own residence, and he spent the whole
day with Violet in the western wing. Should he be
noticed that she was scarcely ever with her father, even
from childhood. He strongly disapproved of his daughter being with Genji,
and of the way in which she had been carried off,
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so he scarcely ever had any communication with her, or
did he visit her. These circumstances made her feel Genji's
affection more keenly than she otherwise would have. Hence her
sorrow at the thought of parting with him in a
few days may be easily imagined. Towards the evening, Prince
Sotts came with ton Chiojo and some others to pay
(05:35):
him a visit. Genji, in order to receive them, rose
to put on one of his naoshi, which was playing
without pattern, as proper for one who had no longer
a title. Approaching the mirror to comb his hair, he
noticed that his face had grown much thinner. Oh, how
changed I appeared, he exclaimed. Am I really like this
(05:56):
image which I see of myself? He said, turning to
the girl, who cast on him a sad and tearful glance.
Genji continued, though changed I wander far away, my soul
shall still remain with you. Perhaps in this mirror's mystic ray,
my face may linger still in view. To this, Violet replied,
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if in this mirror I could see always your face,
then it would be my consolation when thou art gone.
As she said this, she turned her face to one
side of the room, and by doing so obscured the
tears gathering in her soft eyes. Genji then left her
to receive his friends, who however, did not remain long,
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Leaving the mansion after a short conversation of a consolatory nature.
This evening, Genji paid his visit to the sisters of
the Falling Flower Villa. On the following day, the final
arrangements necessary for his household affairs were made at his residence.
The management of the mansion was entrusted to a few
confidential friends, while that of his lands and passers, and
(07:00):
the charge of his documents were entrusted to the care
of Violet, to whom he gave every instruction what she
should do. Besides, he enjoined Shionagon, in whom he placed
his confidence, to give her every assistance. He told all
the inmates who wished to remain in the mansion in
order to await his return that they might do so.
(07:23):
He also made an appropriate present to the nurse of
his boy and to the ladies of the Villa of
Fallen Flowers. When all these things were accomplished, he occupied
himself in writing farewell letters to his intimate friends, such
as the young daughter of udai Jin, and others, to
none of whom he had paid a visit. On the
(07:44):
evening prior to his departure, he went on horseback to
visit the tomb of his father. On his way, he
called on the Princess Wisteria, and thence proceeded to the
mountain where the remains reposed. The tomb was placed among
tall growing grass under thickened, gloomy foliage. Benji advanced to
the two man, half kneeling down before it and half sobbing,
(08:06):
muttered many words of remembrance and sorrow. Of course, no
reply came forth. The moon by this time was hidden
behind dark clouds, and the winds blew keen and nipping.
When suddenly a shadowy phantom of the dead stood before
Genji's eyes. How would his image look on me? Knew
he the secret of the past, as yonder moon in
(08:29):
clouded sky looks o'er the sea. Mysteriously. He returned to
his mansion late in the night. Early in the morning
he sent a letter to o Miobu, the nurse of
the Air Apparent, in which he said, I at last
leave the capital to day. I know not when I
may come and see the Prince again. On him, my
(08:49):
thoughts and anxieties are concentrated above all. Else, realize these
feelings in your own mind and tell them to him.
He also sent the following, fastened to a bow of
flowers already becoming thin, When shall I see these scenes again?
And view the flowers of spring in blue like rustic
from his mountain home? And mere spectator shall I come?
(09:13):
These were carefully read by o Yobu to the Prince,
and when he was asked what she should write in answer,
he said, write that I said that, since I feel
every longing to see him when I do not see
him for a long time, how shall I feel when
he goes away? Altogether? Thereupon she wrote an answer in
which she indefinitely stated that she had shown the letter
(09:36):
to the Prince, whose answer was simple yet very affectionate,
And so on with the following tis sad that fair
blossoms so soon fade away. In the darkness of winter,
no flower remains. But let spring return with its sunshiny ray.
Then once more the flowers we look on again. Now
(09:56):
with regard to the recent disgrace of Genji, the public
in general did not approve of the severity which the
court had shown to him. Moreover, he had been constantly
with the Emperor his father, since the age of seven,
and his requests had always been cheerfully listened to by
the latter. Hence, there were very many, especially among public
servants of the ordinary class, who were much indebted to him. However,
(10:21):
none of them now came to pay their respects to him.
It seems that in a world of intrigue, none dares
do what is right for fear of risking his own interests.
Such being the state of things. Genji, during the whole
day was unoccupied, and the time was entirely spent with Violet. Then,
at his usual late hour in the evening, he, in
(10:44):
a traveling dress of incognito, at length left the capital,
where he had passed five and twenty years of his life.
His attendants karamidz and Yoshikio, being among them, were seven
or eight in number. He took with him little luggage,
All ostentatious robes, all unnecessary articles of luxury were dispensed with.
(11:07):
Among things taken was a box containing the works of
hakrak Ten, a famous Chinese poet, with other books, and
besides these, a king Koto for his amusement. They barked
in a boat and sailed down the river. Early the
next morning they arrived at the sea coast of Naniwa.
They noticed the Oye Palace standing lonely amidst the group
(11:30):
of pine trees. The sight of this palace gave a
thrill of sadness to Genji, who was now leaving and
not returning home. He saw the waves rolling on the
coast and again sweep back. He hummed as he saw them.
The waves roll back, But unlike me, they come again
(11:50):
from Naniwa. They continued their voyage, sailing in the bay.
As they proceeded, they looked back on the scenes they
had left. They saw all the mountains in haze, growing
more and more distant. While the rowers gently pulled against
the rippling waves, it seemed to them as if they
were really going Three thousand miles distant. Our home is
(12:14):
lost in the midst of the mountain. Let us gaze
on the sky, which is ever the same. The day
was long and the wind was fair, so they soon
arrived at the coast of Suma. The place was near
the spot where the exiled Yukihiro had lived and had
watched the beautiful smoke rising from the salt ovens. There
(12:34):
was a thatched house in which the party temporarily took
up their residence. It was a very different home from
what they had been used to, and it might have
appeared even novel had these circumstances of their coming there
been different. The authorities of the neighborhood were sent for
and a lodge was built under the direction of Yoshikiya.
(12:55):
In accordance with Genji's wishes. The work was harried on
and the building was soon completed. In the garden, several trees,
cherries and others were planted, and water was also conducted
into it. Here Genji soon took up his abode. The
governor of the province, who had been at court, secretly
(13:15):
paid attention to the prince with as much respect as
was possible. For some time, Genji did not feel settled
in his new residence when he had become in some
degree accustomed to it. The season of continuous reign had arrived,
May his thoughts more than ever reverted to the old capital.
(13:36):
The thoughtful expression of Violet's face, the childish affection of
the heir apparent, and the innocent playfulness of his little
son became the objects of his reveries and anxiety. Nor
did he forget his old companions and acquaintances. He therefore
sent a special messenger to the capital bearing his letters,
so that speedy answer might be returned from every quarter.
(13:59):
He also sent a messenger to Isse to make inquiry
after the lady, who also sent one to him in return. Now,
the young daughter of udai Jin had been remaining repentingly
in the mansion of her father ever since the events
of the stormy evening. Her father felt much for her
and interceded with the Empress mother in her behalf, and
(14:20):
also with her son, that is, the Emperor, thus getting
permission to introduce her once more into court, an event
which took place in the month of July. To return
to Suma, the rainy season had passed and autumn arrived.
The sea was at some distance from the residence of Genji,
(14:40):
that the dash of its waves sounded close to their
ears as the winds passed by, of which Yukihira sang,
the autumn wind which passes the barrier of Suma. The
autumn winds are, it seems in such a place as this,
far more plaintive than elsewhere. It happened one evening that,
when all the Atte pendants were fast asleep, Genji was
(15:01):
awake and alone. He raised his head and rested his
arms on his pillow and listened to the sound of
the waves which reached his ear from a distance. They
seemed nearer than ever, as though they were coming to
flood his pillows. He drew akin towards him and struck
a melancholy air as he hummed a verse of a
poem in a low tone. With this, everyone awoke and
(15:25):
responded with a sigh. Such was a common occurrence in
the evening, and Genji always felt saddened whenever he came
to think that all his attendants had accompanied him, having
left their families and homes simply for his sake. In
a daytime, however, there were changes. He would then enjoy
pleasant conversations He also joined several papers into long rolls
(15:48):
on which he might practice penmanship. He spent a good
deal of time in drawing and sketching. He remembered how Yoshikio,
on one occasion in Mount Kurama, had described the beautiful
scenery of the place on which he was now gazing.
He sketched every beautiful landscape of the neighborhood and collected
them in albums, thinking how nice it would be if
(16:11):
he could send for sun Nannaurri, a renowned contemporary artist,
and get him to paint the sketches which he had made.
Out of all the attendants of Genji, there had been
four or five who had been more especially his favorites,
and who had constantly attended on him. One evening, they
were all sitting together in a corridor which commanded a
(16:32):
full view of the sea. They perceived the island of
Awaji lying in the distance as if it were floating
on the horizon, and also several boats with sailors singing
as they rowed to the shore over the calm surface
of the water, like water fowl in their native element.
Over their heads, flocks of wild geese rustled on their
(16:52):
way homeward with their plaintive cry, which made the thoughts
of the spectators revert to their homes. Genji hung this verse,
those wandering birds above us, flying, do they are far
our friends resemble with their voice of plaintive crying, make
us full of thoughtful sighing. Yoshikio took up the idea
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and replied, though these birds no friends of ours are,
and we to them are naught. Yet their voice in
these still hours bring those old friends to our thought.
Then krimids continued, Before to day, I always thought they
flew on pleasure's wing alone, But now their fate to
me is fraught with some resemblance to our own. Ukon
(17:39):
No diieou added, though we like them, have left our
home to wander forth. Yet still from me there's joy
to think where'er I roam? My faithful friends are still
with me. Ukon No Diieu was the brother of kim
no Kami. His father, Yeo no Kami, had now been
(17:59):
promoted to Hitachi no Kami, governor of Hitachi, and had
gone down to that province. But ukon no Jio did
not join his father, who would have gladly taken him,
and faithfully followed Genji This evening happened to be the
fifteenth of August, on which day a pleasant reunion is
generally held at the Imperial Palace. Genji looked at the silvery,
(18:24):
pale sky, and as he did so, the affectionate face
of the Emperor his brother, whose expressions strikingly resembled their fathers,
presented itself to his mind. After a deep and long sigh,
he returned to his couch, humming as he went, here
is still a robe his Majesty gave to me. It
(18:44):
should be here, noticed that he had been presented by
the Emperor on a certain occasion with a robe, and
this robe he had never parted with, even in his exile.
About this time, Dayeni, the senior secretary to the Lord
lu Lieu, tenant of Kiushio, returned to the capital with
his family, having completed his official term. His daughter had
(19:07):
been a virgin dancer and was known to Genji. They
preferred to travel by water and slowly sailed up along
the beautiful coast. When they arrived at Suma, the distant
sound of a kin was heard, mingled with the sea
coast wind, and they were told that Genji was there
in exile. Dami therefore sent his son Chisu no Kami
(19:30):
to the prince with these words, coming back from a
distant quarter, I expected, as soon as I should arrive
in the capital to have had the pleasure of visiting
you and listening to your pleasant voice, and talking of
events which have taken place there. But little did I
think that you had taken up your residence in this
part of the country. How greatly do I sympathize with you.
(19:51):
I ought to land and see you at once, but
there are too many people in the same boat. Therefore,
I think it better to avoid the slightest grounds which
may cause them to talk. However, possibly I shall pay
you a visit soon. This Chiksen no Kami had been
for some time previously a kuran, a sort of equiry
to Genji. Therefore his visit was especially welcome to him.
(20:15):
He said that since he had left the capital, it
had become difficult to see any of his acquaintances, and
that therefore this especial visit was a great pleasure to him.
His reply to the message of Daini was to the
same effect. Chigsen no Kalmi soon took his leave, and,
returning to the boat, reported to his father and others
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all he had seen. His sister also wrote to Genji privately, thus, pray,
excuse me if I am too bold, know you not.
The mind is swayed like the tow rope of our boat,
and the sounds your kin has made, which around us
sweetly flowed. When Genji received this, his pleasure was expressed
by his placid smile, and he sent back the following.
(21:01):
If this music moves the mind so greatly as you say,
no one would care to leave behind these lonely waves
of Suma's bay. This recalls to our mind that there
was in the olden time an exile who gave a stanza,
even to the postmaster of a village. Why then should
not Genji have sent to her whom he knew, this stanza.
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In the meantime, as time went on, more sympathizers with
Genji were found in the capital, including no less a
personage than the Emperor himself. Sure it is that before
Genji left many, even of his relatives and most intimate friends,
refrained from paying their respects to him. But in the
course of time not a few began to correspond with him,
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and sometimes they communicated their ideas to each other in
pathetic poetry. These things reached the ears of the Empress Mother,
who was greatly irritated by them. She said, the only
thing a man who has offended the court should do
is to keep himself as quiet as possible. It is
most unpardonable that such a man should haughtily cause scandal
(22:06):
to the court from his humble dwelling. Does he intend
to imitate the treacherous example of one who made a
deer pass for a horse. Those who intrigue with such
a man are equally blameable. These fightful remarks once more
put a stop to the correspondents. Meanwhile, at Suma, the
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autumn passed away and winter succeeded, with all its dreariness
of scene and with occasional falls of snow. Genji often
spent the evening in playing upon the King, being accompanied
by Koromitz's flute and the singing of Yoshikio. It was
on one of these evenings that the story of a
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young Chinese court lady who had been sent to the
frozen land of barbarians occurred to Genji's mind. He thought,
what a great trial it would be if one were
obliged to send away one whom he loved like the
lady in the tale. And as he reflected on this
with some melancholy feelings, it appeared to him as vividly
(23:07):
as if it were only an event of yesterday, and
he hummed the sound of the piper's distant strain broke
on her dreams in the frozen eve. He then tried
to sleep, but could not do so, and as he lay,
the distant cry of Judoori reached his ears. He hummed
again as he heard them. Although on lonely couch, I
(23:30):
lie without a mate, yet still so near adorn the
cries of Judori with their fond mates tis sweeked to hear.
Having washed his hands, he spent some time in reading
a Kiyo Sacha, and in this manner the winter time
passed away. Towards the end of February, the young cherry
trees which Benji had planted in his garden blossomed, and
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this brought to his memory the well known cherry tree
in the Southern Palace, and the fate in which he
had taken part, the noble countenance of the late ex
Emperor and that of the present one, the then heir apparent,
which had struck him much at that time, returned to
his recollection with the scene where he had read out
his poem while on the lordly crowd, I muse which
(24:18):
haunts the royal festive hours. The day has come when
I put on the crown of fairest cherry flowers while
thust meditating on the past. Strange to say, Tono Tchioju,
Genji's brother in law, came from the capital to see
the prince. He had been now made Saishio Privy counselor,
(24:38):
having therefore more responsibility, he had to be more cautious
in dealing with the public. He had, however, a personal
sympathy with Genji, and thus came to see him at
the risk of offending the court. The first thing which
struck his eyes was not the natural beauty of the scenery,
but the style of Genji's residence, which showed the novelty
(25:00):
of pure Chinese fashion. The enclosure was surrounded by a
trelliswork of bamboo with stone steps and pillars of pine tree.
He entered, and the pleasure of Genji and Tono Tchiujo
was immense, so much so that they shed tears. The
style of the prince's dress next attracted the attention of
(25:20):
ton Tchiujo. He was habited in a plain, simple country style,
the coat being of an unforbidden color, a dull yellow,
the trousers of a subdued green. The furniture was all
of a temporary nature, with go and sugarok playing boards
as well as one for the game of dagi. He
(25:41):
noticed some articles for the services of religion, showing that
Genji was wont to indulge in devotional exercises. The visitor
told Genji many things on the subject of affairs in
the capital, which he had been longing to impart to
him for many months past, telling him also how the
grandfather of his boy always delighted in playing with him,
(26:02):
and giving him many more interesting details. Several fishermen came
with the fish which they had caught. Genji called them
in and made them show their spoils, who also led
them to talk of their lives spent on the sea,
and each, in his own peculiar local dialect, gave him
a narration of his joys and sorrows. He then dismissed
(26:25):
them with a gift of some stuff to make them clothing.
All this was quite a novelty to the eyes of
Tonu Tiojo, who also saw the stable, in which he
obtained a glimpse of some horses. The attendants at the
time were feeding them. Dinner was presently served, at which
the dishes were necessarily simple yet tasteful. In the evening,
(26:47):
they did not retire to rest early, but spent their
time in continuing their conversation and in composing verses. Although
Tonu Tchiujo had in coming risked the displeasure of the court,
he still thought it better to avoid any possible slander,
and therefore he made up his mind to set out
for his home early next morning. The sake cup was offered,
(27:09):
and they partook of it as they harmed in our
parting cup, the tears of sadness fall. Several presents have
been brought from the capital for Genji by Tonu Tchiujo,
and in return the former made him a present of
an excellent dark colored horse, and also a celebrated flute
as a token of remembrance. As the sun shed forth,
(27:30):
his brilliant rays turner Tiojo took his leave, and as
he did so, he said, when shall I see you again?
You cannot be here long. Genji replied, your noble crane
that soars on high and hovers in the clear blue sky,
believe my soul as pure and light, as spotless as
(27:51):
the spring day bright. However, a man like me, whose
fortune once becomes adverse, seldom regains even in the case
of great wisdom, the prosperity he once fully enjoyed. And
so I cannot predict when I may find myself again
in the capital. So ton no Chiojo, having replied, as
(28:11):
follows the crane mounts up on high, tis true. But
now his sores and cries alone, still fondly thinking of
his friend with whom in former days, he flew set
off on his homeward road, leaving Genji cast down for
some time. Now. The coast of Akashi is a very
short distance from Suma, and there lived the former governor
(28:34):
of the province, now a priest of whom we have
spoken before. Yoshikiyo well remembered his lovely daughter, and after
he came to Suma with Genji, he wrote to her.
Now and then he did not get any answer from her,
but sometimes heard from her father, to whom Genji's exile
became soon known, and who wished to see him for
(28:56):
a reason not altogether agreeable to himself. It should be
remembered that this old man always entertained aspirations on behalf
of his daughter, and in his eyes the successive governors
of the province who came after him and whose influence
had been unbounded, were considered as nobody's. To him, his
young daughter was everything, and he used to send her
(29:18):
twice a year to visit the temple of Sumiyoshi in
order that she might obtain good fortune by the blessing
of the god. She was not of an ideal beauty,
but yet expressive in countenance and exalted in mind. She could,
in this respect rival any of those of high birth
in the capital. The priest said one day to his wife,
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Prince Genji, the imperial son of the Koyi of Kiritsubo,
is now at Sumar in exile, having offended the court,
How fortunate it would be if we could take the
opportunity of presenting our child to him. The wife replied, Ah,
how dreadful. When I heard what the townspeople talk, I
understood that he has several mistresses. He went even so
(30:04):
far as to carry on a secret intimacy, which happened
to be obnoxious to the emperor, and it is said
that this offense was the cause of his exile. I
have some reason for mentioning this to you, he interrupted impatiently.
It is not a thing which you understand, So make
up your mind. I shall bring the matter about and
take an opportunity of making him come to us, no
(30:27):
matter how distinguished a person he is, replied the wife.
It is a fact that he has offended the court
and is exiled. I do not understand why you could
take a fancy to such a man for our maiden daughter.
It is not a joking matter. I hope you will
take it into graver consideration. That a man of ability
(30:47):
and distinction could meet with adverse fortune is a very
common occurrence, said he still more obstinately, both in our
empire and in that of China. How then, do you
venture to say such things again? Since the Prince your
mother was the daughter of an Azechi da Nagan, who
was my uncle, she enjoyed a good reputation, and when
(31:09):
she was introduced to court, became both prosperous and distinguished.
Although her life was shortened by the suffering caused by
the fierce jealousy of her rivals. She left behind the
royal child, who is no other person than Prince Genji.
A woman should always be aspiring, as this lady was.
What objection, then, is there in the idea of introducing
(31:31):
our only child to a man like him? Though I
am now only a country gentleman, I do not think
he would withdraw his favor from me. Such were the
opinions of this old man, and hence his discouragement of
the advances of Yoshikiyo. The first of March came and
Genji was persuaded by some to perform a Harai prayer
(31:54):
for purification before the coming occasion of the third. He
therefore said for a calendar priest, with whom he went
out accompanied by attendants, to the sea shore. Here a
tent was erected ceremoniously, and the priest began his prayers,
which were accompanied by the launching of a small boat
containing figures representing human images. On seeing this, Genji said,
(32:19):
never thought I, in my younger day, to be thrown
on the wild sea shore, and like these figures, to
float away and perhaps see my home no more. As
he contemplated the scene around him. He perceived that the
wild surface of the sea was still and calm, like
a mirror without its frame. He offered prayers in profound silence,
(32:40):
and then exclaimed, oh, or ye, eight millions of gods
hear my cry, or give me your sympathy aid me
I pray for when I look over my life, Nor
did I commit any wrong or my fellow's betray Suddenly,
as he spoke these words, the wind arose and began
to blow fiercely. The sky became dark, and torrents of
(33:02):
rain soon followed. This caused great confusion to all present,
and each ran back to the house without finishing the
ceremony of prayers. None of them were prepared for the storm,
and all got drenched with the rain. From this, the
rain continued to pour down, and the surface of the
sea became as it were, capestried with white over which
(33:22):
the lightning darted and the thunder rolled. It seemed as
if thunderbolts were crashing overhead, and the force of the
rain appeared to penetrate the earth. Everyone was frightened, for
they thought the end of the world was near. Genji
occupied his time in quietly reading his Buddhist Bible in
(33:43):
the evening, the thunder became less loud, though the wind
still blew not less violently than in the daytime. Everyone
in the residence said that they had heard of what
is termed a flood tide, which often caused a great
deal of damage, but that they had never whiped in
such a scene as they had that day. Genji dropped
(34:03):
off into a slumber when indistinctly the resemblance of a
human figure came to him and said, you are requested
to come to the palace. Why don't you come. Genji
was startled by the words and awoke. He thought that
the King of the Dragon Palace might have admired him,
and was perhaps the author of this strange dream. These
(34:26):
thoughts made him weary of remaining at Suma. End of
section thirty
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