Memories (volume 2 of 2)

A memoir written in the early 20th century. It presents an eyewitness account of diplomatic life and travel, especially in Japan during the fall of the shogunate and the rise of imperial government, alongside later episodes from the author’s public career. Expect energetic on-the-ground narratives—journeys, negotiations, and close shaves—featuring figures like Sir Harry Parkes, Ernest Satow, and future leaders such as Ito and Gotō. The opening of this memoir follows the author on a perilous overland mission with Ernest Satow from the west coast into Kaga, where hospitality gives way to hostility in Echizen and a planned ambush near Ōtsu is narrowly avoided by a last-minute detour via Uji. Back in Ōsaka, the murder of two British sailors heightens tensions as the author meets Gotō Shōjirō and accompanies official visits that mix diplomacy with theatricals, then returns to Yedo to face nighttime intruders and the everyday violence of late-Tokugawa streets. Reassigned to prepare the opening of Ōsaka and Hiōgo, he witnesses mass religious festivities, the ex-Shōgun’s dispirited withdrawal to Ōsaka, and an audacious storm-bound dash at sea with Admiral Keppel and Captain Stanhope. Civil war breaks out around Fushimi; Ōsaka Castle burns, the Legation evacuates, and the author rides his mounted escort to safety through hostile country. At Kōbé, Bizen troops fire on foreign officials, leading to swift reprisals and the ritual suicide of their commander, followed by an Imperial proclamation declaring direct rule and the replacement of “Tycoon” with “Emperor.” Finally, sent with Dr. Willis to Kiōto to treat the ailing ex-prince Yōdo of Tosa, he gains a first look inside the sacred city—just as news arrives of the Sakai massacre of French sailors and severe French demands, leaving him uncomfortably placed amid Tosa power.