250 SPORT AND TRAVEL 



has to kneel to tie one's tie. The impression one 

 receives is of absolute spotlessness and freshness 

 not an atom of dust anywhere. Apparently there is 

 no bed or bedding ; but when night conies, the cham- 

 bermaid enters, prostrates herself before you, and, 

 pulling aside one of the screens of which the walls 

 are formed, discloses two great silk comforters and 

 a pillow stuffed with rice, which are promptly spread 

 on the floor. A brazier with coals is placed beside it 

 and you are ready for the night. The Japanese bath, 

 of all institutions in this immaculate country, is the 

 most important. But there is only one tank for all, 

 and one must not expect privacy ; simply a screen 

 separates it from the hall, and the girl who brings the 

 towels does not knock. Accordingly, being a philis- 

 tine to the customs of the country, it was not sur- 

 prising that the sound of the little lady's approach 

 at a moment when I was fully expecting privacy 

 caused me something of a shock. The only effectual 

 method of concealment seemed to be to retire to the 

 depths of the tub, which I did without delay, land- 

 ing in water considerably over 100 degrees Fahren- 

 heit. The result was successful, for my expressions 

 were so vociferous and full of energy that the girl 

 was completely terrified and took to her heels, leav- 

 ing me to perform my further ablutions in undis- 

 turbed contentment. 



