"Yes," said Iriya, presenting a pink sealed missive. "And in the
guest-room waits Prince Hagané."
Yuki tore the telegram apart, threw open the shoji for more light, and
read: "Find it impossible to do anything with P no logic or reason
pathetic but a child we all think case hopeless forever in your place
would accept H whatever happens I am your loving faithful G."
"It is a terribly long message to come in such an expensive way. Surely
it is from a foreigner," ventured Iriya.
"How long has it been here, mother?"
Iriya showed embarrassment. "Since about noon, I believe. Suzumé
honorably received it and gave it to her master, as she was bid. Your
father would not let you have it now, but that Prince Hagané took it
from his hands and sent it. He says you are to read and consider it;
also that you must not hasten. What marvellous kindness he always shows,
that great man!"
Yuki rose slowly. "He is great and kind. Give thanks to him, my mother,
and say that I shall enter within a few moments."
Iriya prepared to leave. She had searched her daughter's eyes for a
loving recognition, but in vain. On the threshold she wavered. "My
baby,--my only one!" she cried aloud brokenly, and held out her arms. In
an instant, before Yuki could respond, she closed the fusuma and ran
toward the guest-room.