KOBE. 
297 
illuminated with lanterns. Occasionally there was a 
halt made in front of the house of some magnate, 
when addresses were given, followed by theatrical 
representations and dancing. 
The J apanese hold that one of the best means 
to propitiate the divinities is to be happy, and not 
seek to annoy them with incessant prayers and 
supplications, feeling assured that their gods take 
pleasure in seeing every one enjoying innocent 
recreation. 
I was, of course, very eager to learn all I could 
about the country and people, but there was so much 
of interest, and such a short time to inspect it, that 
I was frequently almost in despair. These people 
have for centuries kept aloof from other nations, and 
retained their manners, customs, and ideas unchanged; 
these seemed so peculiar to us that it was with some 
anticipations of pleasure I made one of a party to 
visit the most important resident of this port, Mou- 
magami, who is brother to the great high-priest of 
Honganji Kyota. Arriving in due course at his 
residence, which was situated on the side of a hill, 
we entered the vestibule, where were several at- 
tendants, who saluted us in their national style, 
which was by passing their hands down the knee 
and leg, at the same time giving a strong inhalation, 
indicative of pleasure. Our arrival was now an- 
nounced to Moumagami, who came forward and 
welcomed us. 
