Diaries of Court Ladies
lor] gave a fresh and distinct impression because of her family.[1] She had ten helpers.
The ladies who were proud of their good looks seemed more beautiful in this artificial light.
On the morning of the day of the Tiger[2] the courtiers assembled. Although it is a common custom to have the dance, the younger ones were especially curious to see the dancers. Was it because they had acquired rude country manners during these months of absence from the Court? There the dress dyed by rubbing the leaves of the indigo plant was not to be seen. When night came the second official of the Crown Prince was summoned and perfumes were bestowed upon him. Quantities of it were heaped up in a large box.
That night the dance was performed in the Seiryoden.[3] The King was present to see it. The Prime Minister's wife sent a messenger to the Governor of Owari.
As the August young Prince was to be present, rice was thrown to keep off evil spirits, and people reviled them [the spirits] and called them names. It gave us a queer feeling. I was weary and wanted to rest a little, so I remained in our chamber thinking to present myself when it should be necessary. Lady Kohyoé and Lady Kohyobu sat beside the brazier. We were saying
