WASOl^l CT 3730 T15 _1920_ ASIA Ex LiBRIS Frank A.Vanderlip While patient Nature, brooding in content O'er VAST reserves of silence, shapes the plan Ofwork for Aeons of Accomplishment, What restlessness attends th' affairs of Man! Yet even here, hard on the noisy mart. Sacred the silence of the shelves shall be To silence-garnered thoughts, a world apart, Like the unbounded stretches ofthe sea. CUKXl - ClRCUlAli'O^ TE DUE HDD. ^^^qq; ^ "T9Sf^ ■? GAYLOHO PRINTED IN U.S.A. CT 3730 T 15 19^0 CORNELL UNIVERSITY LIBRARIES ITHACA, N. Y. 14853 Charles W. Wason CoUectioo on China and the Chinese CORNELL UNIVERSITY LIBRARY GIFT OF Dudle^^ Schoeles TAMA The Diary of a Japanese School Girl ASSEMBLED BY FLORENCE WELLS NEW YORK ^THE WOMANS PRESS «1920 Copjraight, 1919, by The National Board, Young Womens Christian Associations of the United States of America New York Second printing, 1920 PUBLISHER'S NOTE This Diary is real, written from day to day by the girls of a school in Japan, then as- sembled by their teacher, Florence Wells. Parts are reprinted from Wohelo, by permission. Cornell University Library The original of tiiis book is in tine Cornell University Library. There are no known copyright restrictions in the United States on the use of the text. http://www.archive.org/details/cu31924012527861 ILLUSTRATIONS Was that an angel's forehead? Frontisjriece FACING FAQX I sat on the green bench 12 Jun and Sawa 20 My voice was very tremble . SO The room where I friendly very much .... 38 We had nice lunches in the lacquer boxes ... 46 Toshi is married and lives in Tokyo 54 TAMA THE DIARY OF A JAPANESE SCHOOL GIRL MoN". Sep 26. — I am Japan girl. I can learn English! by come to my this school. It is very glad to me. Our school stands silently on the HiU and it is three stares with the green and \yhite color. I must to write journal called dialy, it is too hardly for me. TuE. Sep 27. — When the morn broke from the dark night the one of my friends called me by ear thus "Tama, Tama!" I jumped from my bed and bound up. There was many work. I lost the time to go to school so I go very haste with anxiety of late. I was waiting my granunar class because I want to get composition. Bell rang teacher 10 TAMA came. She had many composition but not gave mine at me. So I dismayed very much and it is a sorry class. Now it is eight-hour-half. Study time finished. I glad very much. Wed. Sep 28. — A wet weather. I do not please it. At afternoon was held the pleasant concert in our school. Miss M. came and played the piano. Soon there was very sweetly song. I felt I am rising to the heaven. While I listened to that I forgot all care or sad. I thought the music has a art to pleasure and to lose sorrow of heart. Now I will do my music with all my heart as possible. Thur. Sep. 29. — ^Another wet weather. I got up to late. As I must not be too late I was business to go to school house and I did it with quickstep. Today in Chemistry class teacher showed to us an experience of sulphur. At singing class we copied Christmas song. I hope TAMA .11 we can sing it like angel, how our teacher wiU joy. Sawa's father drew a cold and is very badly. Her breast was waved while she drew a long breath. I am very sorry so I pray to get him well. Fei. Sep 30. — It is clear day b^t I was lonely so I wish it rains. I got a letter from Hatsu. She is with her grandparents all the time so I am envy very much. I sat on the green bench while the twilight was sitting in the west and thought many things by the light of the moon and song of insects. Those smallest musicians singing like they don't know the sorrowful fate to come to them when autumn falls the trees leaves down the ground and becomes a lonely winter. Sat. Oct 1. — When I heard the hen voice my closed eyes opum. It is Saturday. No school, but we did a little sew and ate sweet potatoes. We have a cheer or sorrow time in a day. My dear Sawa's father must went to hospital for 12 TAMA his sick. Sick is sorry thing for Sawa but I am more sorry that I am not got no father. Tonight I write a letter to mother and I say "Why I have not father? Where is my father?" Sun. Oct 2. — I got up earlier than always. I went with Jun to Kaigan Church and gave ear for preach of Sasakura minister. I heard about "Let this mind be in you which was also in Christ Jesus." It struck my heart very much so I wrote this for memory. Evening I took a walk in the garden with Jun. She telled me her vmcl came from Amer- ica and he have American wife too. She is not speak Japan language, therefore Jun must speak English with her. Unci can paint a picture of oil which he did study in New York. TuE. Oct 4. — Today is Tuesday but I cannot went to school. When morning was twilight the sky began to red4en in the east. I was waked by dreary sounds but I felt so bad I cant get up. When began school worship and I sat on the green bench. TAMA 13 piano's tones swelled, the waves of hymnal floated through the fresh air. I was sad for I drew a cold yesterday and very bad spirits. I do not want to spend time in bed but there is no help. I felt lonely. I read some magajines and made Japanese poem about the Day Of An Invalid's Room* I cannot say in English, but it is saying thus, I must stay in bed, Lonely watch the clouds sail by. Sick alone and sad, Classmates come to sorry with. Maybe they will bring some cakes. I know foreigner's poetrys has rhyme but Japan's has only steps like this one's five seven five seven seven. Like I thought, when school end my class- mates came to sorry with and they gave me some sweetly bean cakes. I ate the cakes and gladded very much so I did not like eat my supper any more. 14 TAMA TuE. Oct 11. — I did not write my daily one week. I think those sweetly bean cakes was too many. My stomach was bad. Miss Y. said to me, be very careful to eat, for soon come Christ- mas and New Year and school must eat then. O, yes, I must careful very much. Wed. Oct 12. — One more it is a Wednesday. Rain is falling like a spear. It is black day. First class was drawing class and I drawed the gold fish. Teacher did on board first then I wrote those fish in haste and earnestly but I am unskilful, therefore when picture gets up it is done very funny shape. If it was true goldfish I think it is very rare. When recess became then I heard drumbeat's sound I put my face out the window. I saw a baby's funeral. I felt great pity for it. After school I cleaned classroom, only me. I think of those drum beats of baby's funeral, and why I feel so forcibly impress I wonder. I can- not remember. Tonight came mother's letter. She write TAMA 15 "Your father is died. You become good girl and not ask any question more but you be learn- ing Christian." So I solemned very much. I cannot study or then I remind father's death. Today was very unhappy so I will slept early. But I will not forget this pain with the sleep. Thur. Oct 13. — Today was good weather in opposition to yesterday. Damp became dry and all thing was regain power. After all the branch of study was ended I sat on the green bench and spoke many story with O Yoshi San. I was hearing that in vacation there were many rains until a deluge in Yoshi's country and many damages. Large houses were dipped into the water, and pitiable men weaped into the mud or fled to the mountain in the midnight because their houses flowed away. It is sorry for them but we can study in the school by the God care. I think how I was three years in here and I met many circimistances joyful and sufi'eriful, but most joyful was that I became a child of Heavenly Father. For a long time I did not 16 TAMA be baptized. Sometimes I prayed eagerly and sometimes I disappointed and friends prayed and still I prayed for myself, too. God heard and now I am Christian. One who not know Jesus will say my life is not a happy. But yet a Christian can endure with glad because she will get an eternal life by Jesus. Though I have no father in this world there is Our Father in Heaven who is always anxiousing over us and keeping us. So even I meet many griefs and trial, how happy I! Fki. Oct 14. — Today in Grammar class we learned two things. One, we must put our spirit on the commas, so I will exert as possible. Two, we must write invitation with accept and decline answer. I try hardly and I compose. "Miss Seeds regarets the pleasure of Miss Pratt's company of a tea party for illness on Monday." Why my teacher does not please? Surely I put in all points. "Mrs. Van Petten accept the pleasure of Miss TAMA 17 Pratt's kind invitation at tea party with illness on Monday," I write this for memory. MoN. Oct. 17. — Saturday was nothing to write, and Sunday. Today was holiday of the Imperial Ancestors at the Shrine of Ise. Emperor is there giving first rice of new Harvest to Deities. So school was holiday, hut we did a little sew and ate rice dumplings. I ate ten. TuE. Oct. 18. — Japan is little warm, but step by step becomes cold. We walked on the hills after school. In the sunbeam of afternoon the silvery crown of "susuki" (pampas grass) waved so gracefully. One poet called it "beckoning hand." I think so. From the hill's foot, to edge of bay, Yokohama City is lying, and the big ships in the water. If I can go far far in some ship I dont want any more else. We saw thin smokes coming from some gables. Those people were making supper. I 18 TAMA liked to eat so we advanced our steps and went home. I like the happiness of walking in the fine view. Wed. Oct. 19. — ^When Sawa came to school she informed to us her father's sick got very bad, and there is no hope to get well again. So we were very sorry for her and prayed in prayer room of Y.W.C.A. after school. Thurs. Oct. 20. — The last bell of school rang two so I went to chapel. Miss L. entered lead- ing N. San who graduate Smith College. She told us about American girl students are very kind to every one, rejoice with them that do rejoice, weep with them that weep, and they were not envy another's success but to welcome that lady rather. I will try that spirit as I can. One more thing I hear today that I can glad very much. In gramma class, teacher express that only this week we must to write the daily for that class. She speaks that it is good if we shall write it in every day but we can what we TAMA 19 like. I have not great eloquete to say in Eng- lish very well, but I will one time or then until my book is fulled. Fei. Oct. 21. — This morning Sawa's father went to his heavenly house. Many people com- fort her but she was very sad and cry all day. StJN. Oct, 23. — Sunday. It was fimeral day of Sawa's father. I met her and think comfort her, but when I saw her I weeped with her, and I hardly said "Though your father died his soul went to the Heaven's home." She responsed "Yes, I think so too, but I sad very much that he died in spite we nursed him." There was slender rain when we went to cremation ground. I supposed to Miss Y. "I think Sawa's father see my father in heaven now," but she gave me no answer. Tonight I got a letter from my mother and she reported that she must go to. Honolulu for Red Cross. She is Red Cross Nurse. I want to go, too, but I do not like to become nurse. 20 TAMA Wed. Oct. 26. — There is nothing to be spe- cially for write. I cannot do Mothermatics and I feel I am looked down upon by aU friends. So to exceed the sorry day. Thu, Oct. 27. — ^When the crow cried I rose up from my loving bed. I thought about my dream which I saw, my mother go away and not respond any good-bye with me, and very sad. The sparrow was singing happyly for the good bright morning, and I thought it was hke my mother's loving voice. I hope my mother will give me a letter tomorrow. Fei. Oct. 28. — This morning Miss Y. gave me a letter. It was my mother, that she will set sail to Honolulu in Saturday. I ask my teacher that I may go on ship for see mother set sail. She suppose yes, so I gladded with all my heart. Sat. Oct. 29. — Today was mother's depar- ture's day. We did cleaning in all our rooms. TAMA 21 Then I made haste to go to the dock for mother's set sail. When I see some apples in a store they are not so good, but I buy a few for mother. Then I came near to the dock and I dropped my few apples. At that time an American came nearby and he picked up those apples kindly. I was very shyly but I said "Thank you very much" in English. As I went onto long dock I felt much that he was very kind to other nation. How glad it is mother is going to such country, and I wish I can go to. That ship was very big and so many people that I was pushed there and here, but with break my bones I find mother. While she commanded me I must study faithful and not think foolish, then the gong barked loudly and I must quick step to depart. Then the ship set sail and I began to go to school dormitory again. In just that time I met Jun and Sawa. They were comforting so much that I did not want to separate one's self from two my friends, but the time was waiting and did not forgive. 22 TAMA It is sad day for me, but soon comes a glad day, that is seniors planting a tree day. TuES. Nov. 1. — Today was deep impression day. The bluest sky was over us and the soft green grass beneath us, and the sun sent the bright and warmth and joy to eyes of visitors or ours. In afternoon we gathered to the chapel, then marched around the lawn and stopped at front of new tree, and the ceremony was begun to open with school song. Then one of the graduaters said something and the cherry-tree was planted with joy for a remembrance. How they felt? Perhaps sorrowful and frightful to leave cheer- ful school, helpful teachers, and kind friends in few months after. The sorry ceremony overed with putting sand on the roots, and the joy part began. We played several games and sports. The little girls' bravely dance was extremely fun. Tailoring competition race was excited, and TAMA 23 everybody forgotten themselves shouted "Union School, ten thousand years!" Etc. too. Visitors were called for tea and very glad. So they went home. Hisa and I stood in the silent garden of evening. The soft wind blowed the yellow leaves to fall upon my shoulder. How memory should this day! Wed. Nov. 2. — Today is the shadow from yesterday, that we must write the composition about Tree day. I will tell how cherry is sol- dier's- flower, its flowers soon drop when cruel wind shakes, nor do not even stop to grow fruit. Fei. NiQV. 4. — Today is Literature Society and welcome meeting for Miss T. When the bell for opening rang, so we went to chapel. When I read composition my voice was very tremble. After many songs and recitations we did the joy part which was to do an ancient story of Japan. We had a very nice time with Miss T. She was satisfied so I was too. When the cool wind was rubing the boughs 24 TAMA and all things had nocturnal I sat on the green bench with look at the moon. Today I had a letter from Toshi who got married and lives in Tokyo. Toshi's husband was doing study many years in America and he has some friend there that wants wife, and Toshi asks me do I like to marry him and go to America for business. I think but I cannot know. I like to study in my school, and I like to go to America. I heard sad voice call "Ammah, kamo shimo, jugo sen mon," and I think, poor blind woman that must massage a body for 20 sen. (10 cts.). Then I heard mouth organ, played "Stand up fpr Jesus," and it is Sugi San that was our school's Sunday school's student when he was little boy. Some baby cried. Ah! The garden is very lonely. Insects voices grown dimmer and gone to where? It is very solemnity. The bright silent autumn passes away and the cold winter comes soon. I passed the study room, and my friends stop- ping playing to go to beds, somebody said "The pleasure is Uke a northern Lights." TAMA 25 Sat. Nov. 5.— No school. When house clean- ing is finished I went to Miss Y's room where I friendly very much. When I speak on that matter already she said, "O, yes, I know, Toshi asked to me about it and I told her to write to you." Then I am glad and sent a long letter to Toshi with asking many questions. Sun. Nov. 6.— "Today is a Sunday, I must keep myself purity," I said when I got up this morning. The soft warm hght shown his face upon our heads. About half past, seven I went to the church with Hisa, she is Y W C A's president and very high tone student in our school. On the way we met a girl that is Sunday school student so she greeted us with smihng. "If you are going to Sunday School will you go with me?" I said. "Please," she answered, so we went with her. After a while. "What do you want most?" I question, then she said, "I want to get love from Christ for my parents and friends." When I thought she is only ten years old but 26 TAMA she has good faith, then I want to be like her too. Sunday is very difficult day so I prayed to exert with heart, TuES. Nov. 8. — ^We studied in the morning and afternoon we went to Kyoshinkwai (health exhibit) I was glad because I procured a teach- ing today and saw many wonderful things and pretty. I admired that nothing is more fearful than bacillus. It rained then and we returned through. I am become musty of the rain. I must go to hospital tomorrow for my friend's sick so I will pray for tomorrow to be a good weather. Wed. Nov. 9. — God gave ear to my pray and produced a good weather. After I ate a breakfast I went to Motomachi Hospital. My friend is very iUful. Ah, I truly sympathy for my friend because she was too painful on the neck. Moreover I prayed for her and tell her the schools news. Still a letter comes not from Toshi. TAMA 27 Fei. Nov. 11. — Now six days pass and today came a letter from my dear Toshi. She pour forth how glad she is on my agree with her about join in matrimony with Mr. Wakamatsu. She gave me Mr. W's picture. Now what can I do with that picture? If my friends shall see then surely I shall get a tease; if I shall carry in my bosom, then surely he shall spill out. O, what shall I put him where! Oj it is anxious to me! I hope my loving room mates are hibernating in a lovely dream. Just this night, one only, I shall deposit his honorable face in the envelope of my pillow. May be I can see a nice dream. Good-night, my dear diary, you have an ear but no tongue, so I can lose one's heart in your white pure page. Sat. Nov. 12. — I wrote to my mother to get her idea about Mr. W. He looks very fine gentleman and not so young. He looks like 30 over. When the star of evening was shining like a diamond on the bosom of the west I was reading 28 TAMA in Japanese magazine, and I learned Chinese children are very obedient in the world. I am impress and I want to try it in our school and I hope I can write in magazine "Japanese chil- dren obey very best, too." MoN. Nov. 14. — This morning we began to learn fraction of Algebra. It was trouble. My favorite study is zoology because we can find out various natvu-es of life, which is important for us. But I have interested with our Bible Class. My spiritual body growing stronger a little by a little. Wed. Nov. 16. — I went into school htirrying. Wednesday is always my trouble day because I cannot play the organ well with the teacher's presence. But in the time we have music the ideal world makes a remarkable progressive. Musics not only make the thought high toned but makes us gentle and builds minds of girls all alike and graceful, so we must learn the organ and song as possible. TAMA 29 Thurs. Nov. 17. — Today we must weep be- cause our dear friend Toyo leave the school for some circumstances, and we must do a farewell meeting at half past three, so we were very sorry all day. We wanted to open the prayer meeting so we wished something to eat, therefore every- one paid ten sen (5 cts) to buy some cakes. It was very sorry for Toyo. MoN. Nov. 21. — This week comes America's thanksgiving and our school will try to make a thanksgiving in other man's heart, so today from halfpast three Hisa called the meeting of Y W C A's officers and we went out to sought poor people with Miss Y. and other four five together, because we want to give something to them when our school girls bring something on Thanksgiving day. Kind policeman knows all peoples on his route so he led us to the poor's houses. One house had 80 years old woman and un- bright grandson whose only work is cleaning ships chimneys while the grandmother makes 30 TAMA Zori (straw sandals) for one sen, and only one room. Another was old pare, the man is blind and old woman must sell fortune telling on the street. I feel very pity. Next was sick old man and 18 years son with useless hands and feet, and the old wife must sell the natto (fer- mented beans) night and morning so she feeds her family. Oh, I wish I can buy those natto every day! One more was a house of 8 years girl who must go work every all day in a spin factory, and the grandmother is too old, but the old grandfather can get a few money by mending the geta (wooden clogs). Verily I never felt before how there was such pitiful thing in the world. So we left tickets in many places and came back to our school. TxjES. Nov. 22. — In the morning worship meeting we related the circumstances of those poor people. Everybody solemned very much. I think each girl shall bring some thing. Tonight we saw very nice moving pictures by o > TAMA 31 Mr. L. I never saw before. First of these was the Fire of New York. Next was the family of cats and very sweet. Third we saw the Life of Christ and that gave me very great touch, that picture of "He died for me" gave me the most seal. Wed. Nov. 23. — Today is very buzzing in our school. All girls talk about tomorrow and we put a table and money box in the chapel. Then we prayed in the pray-room, and day students went to their homes. Thues. Nov. 24. — Glad day! It is not too cold. When I carried old warm kimono to the chapel, O, O, the big table stood before the plat- form fulled. In a moment the big pile of bundles appeared before us. What do you sup- pose of that? Beside that there was laid a large basket and many sweet potatoes in it. Many put moneys into the small box on the table. Every teacher and girl has a joyful face and 32 TAMA we sing thanks to God. Miss L. said "You see, little by little makes a much." After school we divided these things into fifty and wraped pack- ages. It was cold when we came out from the warm school, and we talk about how glad those poor which come to receive clothings and day's foods tomorrow which we offered to God. Fbi. Nov. 25. — Today those poorest people of our City came to our school, a barefeet man with a baby on his back and rags, some lame old man and blind old woman, and even one came at noon because she had no clock and thought surely three by waiting a long morning. When they received their own share they wept their gratefulness and gave ear while Hisa made speech to tliem. She said "You ma^ be point to us and call Yaso, Yaso, but Yaso is true God's son and he wants us to give these things to you." When I think that they do not know our Father and our Savior, my heart is struck. I must exert with energetic and not complaint. TAMA 33 MoN. Dec. 5. — After noon the letter came to me. Then I was so happiest I cannot study. My mother lets me marry whoever my guardian likes. So I told Miss Y. She said "O your mother's friend wrote me about another man, Mr. Takayama if you like better. It is not any different to me, so I think I keep Mr. W- Only his picture is too difficult to secret. Thuks. Dec. 8. — ^We had no lesson this after- noon because we went to school's chapel to hear Mr. Gordon's speach. He talked very plainly and full of spirits. My heart was beaten. I have never heard such beautiful and simple ser- mon. I do not know how to explain my heart, but only I decided to bear the yoke and follow the steps of Christ more faithfully. Fki. Dec. 16. — There is nothing to write. My studies are very prosperity, and soon comes the gladdest Christmas. Indeed there is no time, only practise always the songs and dialogs for 34 TAMA school party, and teach my sweetest little girls for Sunday School Christmas. O. One more. I lost his picture. I try to think when have I put him where. So I seeked in all places. He is not in my pillow as &st time, not in hook box or desk. My room friends ask what I seek with such energetic. Even how much I look I cannot find, so I discourage and begin to go to bed. I take my double sash off. Jun saying, you drop something, pick up that picture. O, sad! I lost the picture and I got the teaze. Both is sorry for me. TuEs. Dec. 27. — Christmas party past Satur- day and we happied very much. We played together all students and teachers like a big large family. Some of us did Bird's Christmas Carol and some gave poem or other recitation. On that day we have great greeting in our school. We who born after Christ how good fortune we have! Christmas is a gift of love and cheer from our Heavenly Father. All people's face were full of joyness and the room was full with TAMA 35 happy soft and merry air. The little new girls can perceive the taste of Christmas for first time. Mr. B. prayed and read the Bible sternly. All sang. Miss T. stood and we hitted our hands because she was going to tell about First Christ- mas Tree. We entered into the dining room to eat Christmas dinner. Then I started! For I saw a beautiful sewing bag besides the cakes apples oranges at my seat. And I cried "How pretty and what skilful the making!" Truly I never met such a beautiful and lovely time. Every- body Avith same heart, united, free, at only Jesus' feet. O, yes, outside the cold December stream of valley stops run, but our warm hearts were peace and friendly. Thues. Dec. 29. — I must write many things so I can know without remembering, the aspect of school days. Now is vacation, so we must unmake our dresses and make again. Some girls returned to their homes and they 36 TAMA will help ready the feasts of the new year. All dormitory girls are playing the poem cards. I hope I can become skilful and win everyone. Now we hear pounding rice every day, mak- ing ready for cakes and dumplings. That sound hungries me very much. Even the rabbits in the clear moon look like pounding the rice for Moon goddess. MoN. Jan. 2. — ^Yesterday the new year be- came. We all congratulated and ate the sweetly bean soup and rice balls for our breakfast. To- day we played the cards all days and battledore. Many day girls called on us with bringing cakes. I want to go to Tokyo and congratulate Toshi. Miss Y. thinks so too. Sat. Jan. 7. — O, what shall I do? My mother's friend gave Miss Y. a letter that I must marry Mr. Takayama and not Mr. Waka- matsu. Not even a little I don't know either, and if I say no then each will disappoint. I am too tired to think so I give over hereby. TAMA 37 Sun. Jan. 15. — January is most danger time in the year. Last night at middle night I awak- ened when my body was swing. At first I thought I was dreaming because about was very silent and no man cried out. The earth rubbed together making growling and rattled the house. Then some one cried "Get up all!" so I knew now is earthquake. Some window glass broke out and many tiles flowed off the roof. My room friends sat on my bed and put other many quilts over our heads because we think ceiling break down. Poor little Gippy! She came and trem- bled in one corner. Even cats don't like earth- quake. Really it was like a ship waved to and fro. Then Miss P. came out with a candle and was comforting just like Florence Nightingale with white clothes on. Then the house stopped to rattle and all things became like before. I think if Big Fish was holding earth on his back he will laugh and say "I did a nice exploit." SxJN. Jan. 22. — I went with Hisa to the church as always and I teached my little girls. 38 TAMA They are very fond to come to Sunday School. This time I asked them about the lesson of last week. One mischief girl said "Teacher, I dreamed the dream of Joseph's but in my dream the sun did not bow to me and I bowed to the sun." All children laughed together. But they are lovely girls too. Their innocent hearts trust in God truly, and they often gave me some en- joyable question. Always I feel like talking to angels in heaven. Tubs. Jan. 31. — This afternoon I wrote letter to Nogi San because she is sick and never come back to my school. So I felt very sorry for her so I wanted to comfort her and I put in a dried wild camellia in that letter, Feb. 12. — It is a Sunday. I did not go with other girls to the church to give ear to Mr. Sasakura minister's preach. The rain falls like a long thread silently and no end. The church's bell echoed aroimd in the early air but I thought past of myself and I am very sorrow. The room where I friendly very much. TAMA 39 Last night there came a letter from my dear Toshi. It made my eyes to water. I went to Miss Y. and I tell her this thatHr. Wakamatsu does not like to make marriage with me because my "seki" (birth registry) is unclear, I be- seached Miss Y. to tell me and with sighing she related my mother lived in the temple of Buddha and my father was a priest. Then my mother ran away when I became four years and worked so I could get education and free. O, I am too sorry. The tears slipped from my eyes and I went to my own room. I thought, "Man's life is full of ups and downs as a reed beaten by the wind." But former is gone and past now and cannot be retrieved. I could not sleep. I leaned from the window. The wet trees stood silent in the fierce rain. I heard the sad sound of flute from far distance through the darkness. It is poor blind woman who must do massage from heel to head for twenty sen (10 cents), which is very sad woman. Ah! Sad words and dreary sounds. Then a piano's tones were waved to me from 40 TAMA somewhere the hymnal swelled and I heard the angel voice. It was that one, "Take My Life and Let It Be Consecrated Lord to Thee." There arose many feelings in my heart and my thoughts became high toned. That word hap- pyed me very much and I sleeped soon there after. This morning when my all friends went to church in the rain I took Mr. W.'s picture. Now what can I do with him? He looks too proud gentleman so I must not throw him away. It is too much unkindly to burn him in photo and I do not know who wants next. I think he could go back to Toshi. So I made a package of him in haste with all my heart. Ah, yes, yesterday was offensive day but Hke the rabbit can do the flee so the time passed without delay. And now is today. Now I will think about next. What is number one best maybe. Thurs. Feb. 16. — In opposition to last time it snowed today, and I thought about the plum TAMA 41 tree blossoming its blooms bravely even in the cold times. After school I was thinking sad at class room, then Miss W. comforted me with kindly words, only !• could not explain my sad heart. I wish something interesting can happen in my school, I like to full my diary. Sat. Feb. 25. — Last night was Friday and we played the games in the study room. It is a good-bye too. Our teacher who we hold in greatest must go to America. I hope Lord God please give his protect to she and her family. A clock rang ten. The wind very fiercely. I "went to the bed thinking about the fire. I prayed to God. I was very quite calm in the school. I sleeped. I awaked and had a headach and could not sleep again. Outside wind houled and rain has stopped. A few minutes. I think I hear Nogi temple bell. Fire ! I looked out. The outside was red. I could not see where it was. I am so frightened. Then many students got up and made much 42 TAMA noise and cryed. We went to every window until we could see the fire. It was below in the City and we saw many houses red like flowers in the field. I reminded the sajring that "Tokyo's flowers are fires." We could see black canals reflecting red sky and on the black bridge many men ran with lanterns. Jun says "see a parade of fire-flies." When we were looking bunches of fire flew in the air like red birds. Those birds removed here and there- in seven places. Then seven new fires began. I shuddered my whole body it was such awful fire. I remember our classmate Tai lives in that yonder. Just that time the school's servant comes under the window and he tells Tai is safely. How starts the fire? A man slept smoking a cigarette in his mouth. How many houses? Already more than 100. I solemned very much and thought how small a careless makes so big a destruction. TAMA 43 Then the fire died step hy step. The big clock in the hall rang five. We all went back into our own rooms. After that all girls were quiet and we heard the voise of a hen. Sun. Mab,. 12. — I have fallen into a profound contemplation. I wish I can sit on the green bench but it is too wet or cold. Miss Y. called me to her room. I was anxious but I did not get scoldings, so it was glad! very glad. Only I puzzle myself to hear her words. One more, a nice youth, he asked Miss Y. to get him wife. We talk. I: — Give him Hisa. Y: — No she is not so strong. I:— Then Yoshi. Y: — Not so, she is not fine looking. I : — Sawa. Y: — She must earn money for mother. I:— Well, Jun. Y: — O, never, she already has engaged. I: — So am I, almost. Y: — ^Don't mind Mr. Takayama. Give him 44 TAMA up and choose Mr. Sato. He is' a nice college graduate and will go many places for our coun- try. See, I show you his picture. Then I had a great astonishment. Miss Y. reached her hand to the desk behind her rear and gave over a picture to me. I turn him over. It is a man, only solemn mistake, it is the face of his imperial Majesty's crown-prince son. I wish to laugh but it is too profound. So I came to my room and I wonder why they exert so much for my matrimony. I like to stay in school. Maybe if they hear about my unclear seki, they don't want me. Then, I like to depart school. Fbi. Mak. 24. — Today was held in our school the literary society meeting. This time's mean- ing was that every girl who learned those Bible verses that Miss L. told us can recite and re- cieve a fine Bible from Mrs. Shepard by the Y.W.C.A. My class all did, so we advanced TAMA 45 to the platform and glorify God. Miss L. prouded over us very much. Tub. Mak. 28.--My mothers friend calls me to come to Tokyo next Saturday to make a photograph wedding with Mr. Takayama. He is in Singapore and has a big hotel there. Ah, how shall I answer which? Both is stranger. I like to stay in my school and become senior from April. Thu. Mae. 30. — Our school buzzing excite- ment, and it was the day the seniors all become graduated. Everybody happied, only me, I cannot. Fei. Mae. 31. — Today all girls and women came back to the school that ever attended to this school in their lifes. And the children and grandchildren and snow-hair Miss C. who be- gan the school first. And the seniors' cherry tree blossomed its first pink petals among the other cherries in the garden. Today I forgot 46 TAMA care or sad and played and helped my friends and teachers. We had nice lunches in the lacquer boxes. I like the mushroom very much so all my friends who do not like it gave theirs to me. I ate gladly and many. Now I have readied everything to go to Tokyo tomorrow. Sat. Ape. 1. — O, pain! How pain it is I cant tell. I take the charcoal furnace but still I am too sick. May be my stomach did not like those mushrooms as many as my mouth did. Anyhow I cojild not go to Tokyo, so I am in my dear school stUl. Miss T. gave me medicine and she explained Apr. 1 is Fools' Day. I think so. I like such day, even if mother's friend should angry at me. After noon I sat up. By and by Miss Y. called me to come to re- ception room. I went with feeble step and won- dering. A nice youth sat there and Miss Y. said it is Mr. Sato and he likes to speak to you, while I go bring in tea. I was very shyly, then o J3 TAMA 47 he said in earnest, "Miss Tama, please marry me and go with me to America to live." I could not answer and hanged my head, then I said "My mother." He said, "I know everything, I don't care, I know she is fine Christian, and you are, and I am too." I look at him a tiny little and I think I like him, I am not sure, but I say I like to stay in school little longer. He said, "If that is so, stay, and I will come for you in July." So Miss Y. came back and we drank the tea and told her all. I like April Fool's Day most. Sat. May 20. — Time flies hke an arrow. I forgot my diary six weeks. Today I cleaned in my desk and discovered it. What ftmny girl I am! I like my school, and I like a letter from my Sato San. Sat. May 27. — Now happy excursion's day is over and like always there was a joy and sorrow time together. May 25's morning there was a little spring light on my bed and I looked up 48 TAMA into clear blue sky, it was wide open. I thought of the word "Spring is the hope time qf the year," and I said, with my voice "May is to exceed the hope time with joy." Mitsu is next room girl and she were hearing with laugh. But she said. Who wakes me in such a middle night? I said, no, today is bright and Thursday. Let us ready our lunches for many friends. Then Kato teacher will praise our enthusiastic. I took cool water friction and went to kitchen. We made the rice balls and covered by seaweed. Kato teacher was very gladness that we help her. When it is done she sent her softly smiling face upon it. The depart time came and my heart leaps up. Our school's dormitory's girls walked to the rail- road. All other school friends welcomed us there with happy. Even a near-standing little strange dog was bustle with joy and leaped in the atmosphere. I thought cats and dogs is atmospheric in friendship. While cat friendly in the house, dog's friendly is outside and even strangers. TAMA 49 Few minutes time passed. Train came and our school family were carried on train all with gaily hearts. Our party was seven bosom friends and a sweet teacher. Teacher talks that object, of excursion was above all to improve our knowl- edge and beautiful views and good health and refine our heart with real things. So our teacher entertainmented us with love and tender and many games. We came to Kodzu and out of train. There is wide sand and the ocean licking it. Some girls walked in surf. I sat in dry boat but fisher came nearby. He tells us come out of boat because anyone to sit in a boat on land makes bad luck about catching fish next time. Then we walked in the fine view and with eat- ing some candy we entered trolley cars and rode through a beautiful scenery and came to Ohito. Object of picnic is to progress knowledge of a natural history so we went to saw the famouse waterfall. There was pleasant teahouse and many tea so teachers and girls ate the lunch, sitting on the red blankets or other benches. 50 TAMA When eating overed we must climb the long valley to hotel of Shuzenji. It was one ri (2^ miles). The hot sun brighted therefore our faces grew red as apples and dropped sweat. Shuzenji is one of a well-known springs in Japan. The hot water comes out in middle river and under many hotels. Our hotel is a big one and we rested there. The cool wind got away the sweat. All rooms thronged with too many. Some went into hot spring bath. Tub is big- ger than school bath and room is too, so all my class can wash each others back at one time. That time my class went to see f amouse temple and in that garden stone Dharma is sitting. That Dharma came from India. He was saint because he never did sleep, only he sat and thought. Soon his feet grew tight and he can- not stand so now he is a god. Miss W. related us that in America they make the doll to knock it over and it sits up, just like Dharma. I astonish very much that India, America, Japan know same thing. TAMA 51 When we came to the inn again the sun that rested on the mountain pine set down and dyed the clouds. Everything which tired by the strong sunshine now recovered their spirits. Be- hind us there was poetical temple in the moun- tain. Its bell rang solemnly in the haze. In a few moments the moon risen on mountain, a golden cup risen twinkling among pine trees we could count. The moon shined on the river and it looked like inlay of gold. River is talking something. The grass-hoppers singing voices were floating in the air silently and lonely. I feel that God gave us a heavy benevolence. So I thank to God quite so. Behind me was sudden noise. I startled very much. It is supper is ready. All sleeping rooms are open together and trays of suppers standing in rows all red and black and good smell. The fish is toasted and sauced. The vegetables are cut and cooked in soy sauce too. My soup had a fish head and mushroom and very good taste. After we eat the siruped beans the trays take away. 52 TAMA Now we had a joy time and some worship. Mr. Hayashi teacher made a fire crackers dance and we shaked our sides with laugh. Next we heard a very beneficial story from Miss L. Story it is nearly finished, electricity light vanished, the room was darkness. That hotel's maid searched match and set fire on a candle. I think when we walked in dark night if we saw faint light we are glad. Just like it there are many men walking in dark in the world. If I cannot big light yet I grow a little light. If I can save only a man from dark and guide to the God I am very glad. Now the dark grew late so we must to sleep. Many mattresses bring and put down row after row and some quilt to cover. Some girls went in hot spring again. Soon all slept as possible. In early morning the stormy wind were blew with loud whistle. It was dreary soimd to wake an excursion. I saw the outside leaning against the porch rail with my friend. It rained strongly and thimdered lightning dreadfully. Cold. But every girls went in hot spring bath again. TAMA 53 It was very warm and voice of laughter happy to hear. Meanwhile beds put away in closets. Same room is breakfast. We have bean soup and rice and pickle. Same time the rain became little and stop thunder step by step. A clear warm day became. With laughing we saw that village's stores and temples. Eleven o'clock. Every girl and teach- ers must start down the mountain. Like before we ate the rice balls at a tea house with drinking tea and talked many things. When the train came near to Yokohama we looked from the window. Mt. Fuji stood dyed red, purple, black, and faint, and at last van- ishes his beautiful figure. Only top is there and white. Was that an angel's forehead or a shadow of nature of a picture that was a trifle done by god of beauty? I solemned very much. At last we reached our school hardly. We all tired but in our weakful faces there appeared memories of a happy picnic in dumb. June 3. — Saturday. It was cloudy to-day. 54 TAMA Why the heavens made to such a cloudy or rauiy weather as now-a-days? I think very strange. Early in this morning when I am going to Sayo San's to buy a soap I saw some plant's vines twine around a fence and blooming a white morning glory. It was too beautiful so I went near it, then I found a few dews on the petals. They were like pearls. A while I didn't like to leave it; but, I thought, I have some business and hke this that a morning glory bloomed so I must do my duty very well. Yesterday we had no history class. We are very glad. But we must go to Ferris School to hear the address of Dr. W- He came from America. We entered the chapel and I waited to listen eagerly. He appeared and began to tell. I could not understand so I liked to sleep. Some people said it was very good lecture. I admire those people. I think my Sato San could understand it very well. Sun. June 4. — It is June and rainy season. I think we get many disasters in this wet weather. The green bench is lonely in the garden that Toshi is married and lives in Tokyo. TAMA 55 no girls sit there now. Ah! I'll try in earnest the study from now. And maybe I shall become a grand thing. I want to learn boiling Japanese cookery and I hope I can do flowers arranged in a vase. One more. I will become poet. Ah! Let me think awhile — I will try as possible. RAIN How soft the rain! The rain is falling on the ground from heaven. How lonely the rain is! The rain is wetting branches of no-leaf trees. How sweet the rain is! The rain comes down from heaven to kiss the lovely flowers. Dear rain! I like you for you are sweet, brave and lonely. You are just like whispers low to me "I am fulfil His word!" Yes? I think so. I like rain if it is not to many. But rainy and cloudy are manyer than 56 TAMA nice at now; and I remind American proverb Sawa told me that "too many is too much." I had a letter from my Mr. Sato, O, he cannot come for me until September. Now what shall I do? I cannot go to mother's friend. She angries at me still. Toshi's house is too small. Anyhow some nice chance will drop in my mouth if I keep it open. MoN. June 12. — Today was such a fine day. I have never seen such a day in a few days lately. Truly today was very clear, I wish to pass thus always. I have studied my lessons in happy. Miss W. gave me my composition back to me, and such a praise leaked out from her hps. O, I gladded with all my heart, and I thought maybe I can become a writer if I exert with enthusiastic. I write it here for memory. TAMA 57 My Fir^t Trip to Yokohama I am an old. country man and I have never been away from home, only my occupation is in plow the field every day and I am spending merry time with my wife. One day my daughter in Yokohama has in- vited me to visit her. She live five years in there with her husband and three sons. They are working, for a hardware shop in the street but I couldn't see these dearest grandsons even one time. Accordingly I resolved to go to Yoko- hama for see the children. I started early morning from home and passed along fields and mountains and reached to the station hardly. I never have been get on the car therefor I couldn't understand how to buy ticket. Then splendid gentleman who wear the hat like height of waste basket came near me. I was very glad and asked him about ticket. He was kind and taught me. At last I could get on the car. 58 TAMA First wonderful thing was flute call of train. I jumped up because train moved out with ring of flute. The people that were around me thought mad and scolded. Tho I wished speak these people I waited because I am country man. Every man in the train was burning a bundle of yellow papers in his mouth, and a beautiful lady was hanging something like a purse in her hand. Another, I saw the girl-students with long-eaves hair. I thought surely they need not umbrella. When I will throw away bark of orange out of window, it l*ebounded and struck a Madam's face, because glass is very clear that I thought T^andow is not shut. Madam was very angry and scolded with many insults. Then I began to eat the dinner in the train. I was eating rice-baUs, pickle, and, dried plums. Woman that was angry flrst, laughed out at my manner of eat. Doing such failure I reached to Yokohama station, but I forgot the entrance. Tho I asked some person he did not teach me, unkindly. "Having no other alternative I call a porter from T AM A 59 the train." As soon as opened the door of car I jumped down. When I left the station I was very tired, then my daughter came to meet me to the station. When I came to the beginning of street very splendid carriage came near us. I wondered and fell on my nees how rare person was in it. My daughter talked me such carriage is running always. I felt sorry my body is country man's foolish one, and ashamed to my daughter. We came in the street. Many beautiful gentlemen and ladies were walking and five or six foreigners came from here and there, 1 felt terrible and curious. I finally was taken to my daughter's house. Grandsons were very glad and I was guided in a drawing room. Grandsons sang many musics and showed many kinds of games and photo- graphs, I couldn't even only one word, too glad. The couple treated me on many feasts and I spent this day. Next day I was taken by my daughter to see many rare things. First we went to see the park, 60 TAMA I wondered when I saw the spouting because water was ejecting from the earth. That time policeman that I am abominating like a larva of lepidoptera came near me. I jimiped up on surprise. Policeman passed with bitter laugh. Then we went to see Foreign House to the Bluff. I have never seen such a splendid houses since I was born. Many those houses was sculptured with pretty colors. I said to my daughter "if it was rainy day the colors wiU fade away." She shaked her sides, Next went to the clothes' store. I was struck by its beauty and I departed loud voice. I bought the sash for my wife. Third? Went to see the statue on Kamon mountain. When I saw Oi Kamon's statue I was bathed in tear in voluntarily, because I re- minded that after appeared the comet he was kiUed. I wanted to see steamboat but I was tired greatly, therefore we returned home on time. In the night I was taken to see moving pic- tures with husband of my daughter and grand- TAMA 61 sons — I was surprised as if disappear my soul by move of pictures; but grandsons talked its reasons to me kindly. Always I am very restrained because peoples in the street in high standard. Thus I spent one week and returned my country with many pres- ents and grandsons photographs. As soon as I returned my wife asked me about events that were in Yokohama. I made hoarse in answer many things. She was glad shedding tears. Next day I mailed the letter about I reached safely home. But I like country better because peoples in the city are too noble, therefore if we live in there we restrained by them. June 16. — A Friday. After school we opened a class meeting. It hasn't any reason. We ate cakes and talked many things. It was very sweetly. We decided to go to the bay tomorrow and gather the clams. My diary is almost the end. Its pure white page is nearly fulled. So the school year is al- 62 TAMA most the end too. I want to know the aspect of vacation but I cannot know it yet. June 17. — Yes, we went to the clam shore. At noon we ate the rice balls and seaweed and everyone of our class received a boiled egg from Sawa. There were written down on it caches future prophecy. It was Tei to become famous musician, Toyo to teach a big university, Michi to be a 20 century first rank poet, Sawa a sweet home, and I shall be the far traveller. Thus doing we came back to our loving school with many clams. Then surprise! It was a letter from my mother and she tells me she is glad she wiU see me soon going to America with my — ^with Mr. Sato. Another. Miss W. called me to her room and asks me about vacation. I do not know. She asks do I like to take summer at her house and learn to make many kinds of cookery. I think so and I say yes, for he likes American cookery. The sun set his body down in the West. The TAMA 63 night covered all things on earth with the same black. I sat on the green bench. I thought of my mother. Her countless love moistens my life like morning dew, and her care shines in my heart like evening star. She preserved me safely more than hen does chicks. How lovely how graceful her care over me! I must study and make my mother gladness. Ah! My diary became fulled. My dearest diary, good-bye, and keep my heart. TAMA.