[43]

 The Young Daimyo

When he first came out to meet me,

He had just been girt with the two swords;

And I found he was far more interested in the glitter of their hilts,

And did not even compare my kiss to a cherry-blossom.

[44]

[44]

 Masonubu—Early

She was a dream of moons, of fluttering handkerchiefs,

Of flying leaves, of parasols,

A riddle made to break my heart;

The lightest impulse

To her was more dear than the deep-toned temple bell.

She fluttered to my sword-hilt an instant,

And then flew away;

But who will spend all day chasing a butterfly?

[45]

[45]

 The Beautiful Geisha

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