me a thank-offering for each encouraging sentence. I will not read it unless you do so. Do you agree to my conditions, sir?"
"Certainly."
Kosuké unfolded the letter, and began to read with an important air.
"'Dear Sashirō: Many thanks for your favour of the other day.' Observe that O-Somé says, 'Many thanks.' 'I am very pleased that you appreciate me so much—'mark her words—'very pleased,'"—he held out his hand—"Give me the first thank-offering, sir!"
Sashirō produced a gold coin, and handed it to Kosuké, saying:
"Come! Read on, sir."
"'But it grieves me to say that I am obliged to decline your kind proposal, as I have a mother and I cannot decide anything without consulting her!'"
"But," groaned Sashirō, "doesn't she say 'decline your proposal?'"
"Don't be disappointed! That sentence means that if her mother gives permission, she will consent to marry you. Now listen to some more: 'I asked my mother for her opinion and, to my joy and
