Viewing page 147 of 978

This transcription has been completed. Contact us with corrections.

Kioto, May 7th, '95.

Dear Mr. Hecker:

Here, business men lead lives of reasonableness, and seemingly enjoy existence and prosperity far beyond the average American. Still they advance possibly more rapidly than our own people.

Of course, everybody loses their heads and most men their hearts over Japan. Of mine I cannot write over serenely. At times my head revolves like a weather vane in the north east monsoon and my heart flutters like the graceful kimono of a dancing musume. The country is glorious in spring colors, the people are gay, the weather fine and the curio stores fascinating. Of the exhibition I have as yet seen little, of hospitality already much has been extended. I am getting enjoyment; yes, plenty of it, but it is so new and so curious I don't know whether or not it will digest. After longer indulgence I can write you more surely of its real character. India is entirely unlike Japan; and Indian life and adventures will I think, leave more lasting and precious impressions upon my mind. At any rate they will prevent indiscriminate affection for Japan. I have an excellent guide, am quite well and "time flies with wings of butterflys". I am rushing this letter off to catch the mail steamer to Vancouver on day after to-morrow.

With best wishes and love to all.

Yours ever sincerely
C.L.F.

P.S. Please say to Mr. Plumb that I am meeting his friend Lyon frequently and that I find him a big hearted, fine fellow.

Long hand.