Silkworms
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I
I was puzzled by the phrase, “silkworm-moth eyebrow,” in an old Japanese, or rather Chinese proverb:—The silkworm-moth eyebrow of a woman is the axe that cuts down the wisdom of man. So I went to my friend Niimi, who keeps silkworms, to ask for an explanation.
“Is it possible,” he exclaimed, “that you never saw a silkworm-moth? The silkworm-moth has very beautiful eyebrows.”
“Eyebrows?” I queried, in astonishment.
“Well, call them what you like,” returned Niimi;—“the poets call them eyebrows. . . . Wait a moment, and I will show you.”
He left the guest-room, and presently returned with a white paper-fan, on which a silkworm-moth was sleepily reposing.
