Daimio

Then, when he heard that the Daimio, or great lord to whom this part of the country belonged, was expected at the capital, he was to carry the ashes to the high road, through which the procession would have to pass.

The Violet Fairy Book 2003

But before the messenger could reach him the old man had climbed the nearest tree and scattered his ashes far and wide, and in an instant the white flowers had flashed into life, and the heart of the Daimio rejoiced, and he gave rich presents to the old man, whom he sent for to his castle.

The Violet Fairy Book 2003

As the Daimio drew near he flung a great handful of ashes over the trees, but no buds or flowers followed the action: instead, the ashes were all blown back into the eyes of the Daimio and his warriors, till they cried out from pain.

The Violet Fairy Book 2003

He put them carefully in a china vase, and carried it to the high road, Sitting down on a seat till the Daimio should pass.

The Violet Fairy Book 2003

The old man had not been waiting very long before he saw a cloud of dust in the far distance, and knew that it must be the procession of the Daimio.

The Violet Fairy Book 2003

The Tycoon's messengers then read the imperial mandate, which proclaims that, in accordance with the ancient custom of the country, the Daimio is permitted honourably to sacrifice himself for its benefit, and thus to expiate in his own person the crime or offence he has committed against the welfare of the state.

Sketches of Japanese Manners and Customs Jacob Mortimer Wier Silver

Should the proposed victim be a Daimio of importance, and sufficiently powerful to set the Tycoon at defiance, the delivery of the imperial mandate is likely to be attended with unpleasant results, as the bearers are sometimes waylaid and murdered by retainers of the doomed prince, and have frequently to resort to stratagem to accomplish their task.

Sketches of Japanese Manners and Customs Jacob Mortimer Wier Silver

In the illustration, the two officials charged with this disagreeable office are sitting opposite the Daimio and his friends, reading the fatal document, their suite surrounding them in respectful attitudes.

Sketches of Japanese Manners and Customs Jacob Mortimer Wier Silver

Originally constructed at the instigation of a Tycoon of more than ordinary abilities, it has, from the constant care bestowed upon it for centuries (each Daimio being compelled to keep that portion of it which passes through his dominions in repair), become a broad and well-graduated highway.

Sketches of Japanese Manners and Customs Jacob Mortimer Wier Silver

The accompanying illustrations represent the different formalities that are observed at the performance of the 'Hara Kiru' by a Daimio.

Sketches of Japanese Manners and Customs Jacob Mortimer Wier Silver