encing the author's
design are not known. Very interesting is the story, to the cheerful
character, and those not to be chilled by apparitions. At all events
they get to Ombo[u]bori? The third Kikugoro[u], the first to take the
part of O'Iwa, was a superlative actor, skilled in capturing the people.
In the third scene, the dark room at Hebiyama, the ghost comes forth
from the _Bon_ lantern. Every day the _kozo[u]_ (man or boy as
apprentice) of the utility shop in Asakusa Umacho[u] slowly took down
the lantern covered with white paper. In a straight line, before the
eyes of all, he passed along Kuramaedo[u]ri, crossing Asakusa. From
Yokoyamacho[u] he crossed to Daimaru no Mae. Passing through
Norigyo[u]cho[u] he reached the Nakamura-za in Sakaicho[u]. As he passed
along these streets crowded with people, the eyes of men were attracted:

_No. 1_--"Every day, every day, the _kozo[u]_ goes by carrying that
_Bon_ lantern. Where does he go?"

_No. 2_--"He? Kikugoro[u] now is playing O'Iwa Sama at the Nakamura-za.
The ghost issues from that _Bon_ lantern. The lantern used is brought
every day by the _kozo[u]_."

_No. 1_--"Ha! A practical application. We must be sure and go see."
Through this advertisement the guests came readily. As fact, every day
but the one _Bon_ lantern was used. Split apart, it was repaired. From
the first day, up to the performances of a thousand autumns, one lantern
answered all purposes. Truly Kikugoro[u] was more than a clever actor.
He was wonderful in securing the good will of people. No actor was equal
to him. Tradesmen, Government officials, learned men, refined people--he
was skilful at gaining their support. Hence he did not lack money. His
_status_ did not affect him. When as usual the _Bon_ lantern one day was
to be carried out, Kikugoro[u] made his pupil Onozo[u] the bearer. Said
Kikugoro[u]:

_Kikugoro[u]_--"Onozo[u], don't I frighten you somewhat in this shape?"

_Onozo[u]_--"I'm not in the least frightened. Every day acting as your
assistant I'm not afraid."

_Kikugoro[u]_--"What? Not afraid? Say that you're afraid."

_Onozo[u]_--"Patron, that is unreasonable. One not afraid--is not
afraid. Hence it cannot be helped."

_Kikugoro[u]_--"Anyhow, say you are afraid."

_Onozo[u]_--"I'm not at all afraid."

_Kikugoro[u]_--"An obstinate rascal, this."

While speaking--_pokari_, he gave _Onozo[u]_ a whack on the head. As it
was he went through the performance. Coming to the green room