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302 HOXDA THE SAMURAI.
the smile of her husband, Fujimaro, was a rich reward
for her trouble and the surrender of her
maiden charms. Japanese husbands never kiss their
wives ; kissing is an art unknown in Japan. It is
even doubtful whether the language has a word
signifying a kiss.
Henceforth, in public or private, alone or in company,
Kiku's personal and social safety, even had she
been a commoner, was as secure as if clothed in
armor of proof and attended by an army. The
black teeth, mam-mage" or bent coiffure, and shaven
eyebrows constitute a talisman of safety in a land
which demands that a woman put her teeth in
mourning for defense.
The people of Fukui were very proud of their
new princess, and now boasted that the granddaughter
of a kuge* had come to live among them. Great
was their joy when she appeared in public, so that
they could look upon her pretty face. In honor of
their prince's son, Fujimaro, and his wife, the young
samurai had for months been practicing for a match
game of polo. The princess was to witness it and
award the prizes, and all who could possibly beg,
borrow, or buy admittance to the riding-course
where the game was to be played were in happy
anticipation of the day.
The origin of da-kiu, or Japanese polo, which is a
game of ball or hockey played on horseback, is referred
to the time of Yoritomo, who wished in time
of peace to keep his cavalry soldiers seasoned by
hard exercise and ever ready for the toils of war.