A Case of Child Murder
51
- Tsugi.—All right, Papa. (She goes to the closet, and unfolds his uniform.)
- Koyama.—(Quickly dressing,) (Speaking to the peasant) Have you told them of this at the town office?
- Peasant.—Yes, Sir; I sent a man there a little time ago. But you must come now, for it seems rather an extraordinary case to me, and we cannot do anything without your kind assistance.
- Koyama.—Of course. It does seem strange.
- Tsugi.—What about your supper, Papa?
- Koyama.—I will have it when I come back. But you better have yours now, and not wait for me, for I may be late.
- Tsugi.—Very well.
- Koyama.—(Preparing to put on his shoes) I am ready. I will go with you at once.(Tsugi is left alone. A moment after the wife of a neighbour comes in from the back door.)
- Wife.—Good evening!
- Tsugi.—O, good evening, Madam! (She motions to her guest to be seated, and leaves the table.)
- Wife.—You are taking your supper; pray, don’t stop for me. I will wait till you have finished.
- Tsugi.—Thank you. (Continuing quickly to eat.)
- Wife.—Will you not go to the bath-house after supper with me?
- Tsugi.—I wish that I could go, but—
- Wife.—Where is your father? Is he absent?
- Tsugi.—He was suddenly called away, a few moments ago. He had just returned from his duty, and had
