To Doji Shinnosuke

[Kitsu Sayomi]

A letter, accompanied by an origami-swan, is delivered to Shinnosuke on his way to Kyuden Ikoma. The writing within is neat and elegant.

To the esteemed Doji Shinnosuke of House Tanaka,

Ancestors blessings upon you, and may this humble letter find you in good health and spirits. I am Kitsu Sayomi, and I will be attending the Winter Court at Kyuden Ikoma this season. And while we have not yet had the honor of meeting one another, I have heard tell of your artistic talent on the stage from some of my kinsmen that have visited the courts of the Crane. Hagoromo happens to be my favorite Noh play, so I became quite excited to hear that such a skilled actor would attend with the Crane delegation this winter.

I dare to hope that you will grace the court with one of your performances.

May the ancestors keep you safe,
Kitsu Sayomi of House Tatsukawa

[Doji Shinnosuke]

A letter

A letter folded with a silky white feather:

To the gracious Kitsu Sayomi of House Tatsukawa:

What a delight it is to know even before starting the journey that there are people of taste in your inland provinces! If we are agreed so many miles apart about the sublimity of Hagoromo, surely no achievement of peace and harmony will be out of reach at this year’s court.

Naturally, I dare to hope the winter will furnish some opportunities for performance. I long to hear music and see dances from all the distant parts of the Empire, and of course that my poor skill will provide some diversion for others as well. Your encouragement is most precious on that latter point. Please allow me to thank you for it in person when we are both in Kyuden Ikoma.

May the Heavens send good health and fortune flying down to you and yours until then!

Yours most sincerely,

Doji no Tanaka Shinnosuke