First, because the Rat comes at the beginning of the series of twelve animal signs; secondly, because ‘Rat’ is written with a character that also means ‘baby.’

The phrase which I have translated ‘Divide by three’ also means ‘One of three’ i.e. of the Three Mysteries (Birth, Marriage, Death). That is why Koremitsu was ‘no longer in any doubt.’ But many other explanations of the passage have been given. It is indeed one of the three major difficulties enumerated by the old-fashioned Genji teachers.

Oborozukiyo. See above, p. 242.

I.e. become a concubine of the Emperor.

In addition to the one hanging on the frame.

Kiteba, ‘were he to come,’ also means ‘should he wear it.’

92 b.c. according to the usual chronology, which is however purely fictitious.