II
Manyemon said there was a soldier at the entrance who wanted to see me.
"Oh, Manyemon, I hope they are not going to billet soldiers upon us!—the house is too small! Please ask him what he wishes."
"I did," answered Manyemon; "he says he knows you."
I went to the door and looked at a fine young fellow in uniform, who smiled and took off his cap as I came forward. I could not recognize him. The smile was familiar, notwithstanding. Where could I have seen it before?
"Teacher, have you really forgotten me?"
For another moment I stared at him, wondering: then he laughed gently, and uttered his name,—
"Kosuga Asakichi."
How my heart leaped to him as I held out both hands! "Come in, come in!" I cried.