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[Concluding chapter 8]
“This letter came for you about an hour ago, sir.” Jiro handed Hiroki a carefully folded piece of paper. Hiroki slid a finger along its length; the paper was thick, well-made. Expensive. But not a love-note, Hiroki thought, or it would be tied to a branch or twig or spray of blossoms. Not that he knew anyone in the capital who would be writing him love-notes in the first place. Perhaps I should teach Katsumi how to write poetry as well as read it.
“Will all of you gentlemen be taking evening rice here tonight?” the servant added, stepping back to a respectful distance.
“Have we been summoned to dine with Lord Naitō?” Hiroki asked him. Jiro shook his head. “In that case we will eat here. We have been out walking much of the day, Jiro, and I’ve no doubt Shiro and Tetsuo have worked up appetites. If you have to choose between quality and quantity of food tonight, err on the side of quantity.”
“I will see to it, sir,” Jiro said, bowing and turning toward the kitchen.
“Have the staff heat water for washing, and prepare the bath-house once you’ve dealt with the meal,” Hiroki told him. “I want to clean up before we eat.” And if Shiro and Tetsuo want to do likewise they can go to a bath-house. I don’t intend to be quick about this bath once I’m in it.
When Jiro had gone Hiroki settled onto the soft floor and opened the letter.
Noble Hiroki, it began, and Hiroki winced; it was Hosokawa mocking him again. Then he read further, and his anger vanished.
You had expressed concern about the disappearance of my friend Togashi Shokan. I am writing to tell you that this gentleman has returned to the capital and is once again resident in his house.
If you wish to interview the wakashū on the subject of current interest to you, you will find him at home in the morning. He seems somewhat reluctant to visit the home of our mutual acquaintance the arms master since the recent unfortunate events, so do not look to find him there.
I have not mentioned your interest in him to Togashi. Perhaps the surprise of your visit will improve his current mood.
Hosokawa Katsunata
Hiroki re-read the note several times before folding it up and tucking it into his sleeve. He thought about the note, and about what he should do next, until Jiro came to tell him the bath was ready.
I will continue with my evening as I first intended, he decided. Togashi can certainly wait until morning.
Next Characters Chapter 1 Chapter 2 Chapter 3 Chapter 4 Chapter 5 Chapter 6
Chapter 7 Chapter 8
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