Chapter 13
His Imperial HighnessIn these days, when princes resign
their rank to marry commoners, and queens elope with tutors, it is
probable that most Western minds will see nothing out of the way in
the condescension of the Japanese ruler in admitting a diplomatic
agent to the honor of the imperial cousinship.
But the dynasty of Japan is the most illustrious in the world,
excepting only that of Great Britain. Like Edward VII., the Mikado
traces his lineage back to pagan gods. From the days of the famous
Empress Jimmu, an unbroken line of sacred sovereigns has filled the
throne of the Realm of the Rising Sun during more than two thousand
years.
Mr. Katahashi was evidently pleased to see that I appreciated to
the full the tremendous honor accorded to me.
“An imperial carriag
