Sanuki no Suke’s Diary: Memories of the Imperial Palace (10)

 

     The next morning, just as I am thinking that the bustling night rituals—with the display of lady's robes (Uchiide) and the officers baring their shoulders (Katanugi)—are still far from over, dawn breaks. Then, a beautiful letter with lovely paper and colors arrives.

     "I am delivering this to you. When I brought it to the palace, you had already retired to your quarters, so I came here instead," the messenger says, handing it to me. I am surprised, and he adds, "It is from Lady Yamato." I take it and read:

Remembering the dancers of the Five Festivals

During the late Emperor's reign,

I miss those days all the more now

As I watch you serving in the palace today.

     I cannot help but write a reply:

I find that unforgettable past ever-present,

Even as I stay here in the palace.

Yet, the morning sun rises to wake me,

Bringing another day of service.

     No sooner have I sent this reply than everyone around me awakens, talking about the young Emperor’s visit to the Koyasu-den Palace. Hearing this, I head directly there from my own quarters.

     I do not need to write about the subsequent Daijo-e banquets here; please imagine them. Everyone is well aware of those festivities, so I shall not go into detail.