Lady Samurai

Chapter 30

The next day rose grey and miserable. It was raining the whole night. Mud and dirty puddles were everywhere and black clouds threatened yet more rain.

A tent had been erected at Kaiko Hiroba, but the weather didn't encourage any happy disposition and moods were sour.

Both Perry and Hayashi arrived mid-morning with their respective entourages, both in their finest. With a great ceremony the documents were solemnly signed. It was agreed that the Treaty would be ratified by both sides within eighteen months.

Immediately after the documents were signed and copies exchanged, Commodore Perry presented Hayashi with the American flag.

"This is the highest expression of national courtesy and friendship I could offer." He stated with a bow.

"I am honoured." Hayashi received the gift with apparent gratitude and in turn invited the whole American delegation to enjoy a feast and entertainment especially arranged to celebrate this momentous event.

Commodore Perry accepted the invitation, announcing in turn his intentions to leave the next day to inspect the ports specified in the Treaty. "This party would be a suitable conclusion to our talks." He smiled.

By now the Americans were well acquainted with Japanese hospitality. They had even picked up a few words and were genuinely looking forward to a great party.

Anna, on the other hand, wasn't thrilled about it. She knew there would be a lot of saké involved and some girls afterwards. None of which really appealed to her. But her plan was to sneak out anyway before things would get too rough.

Especially, she didn't want to encounter a drunken Morrison! Although they were now on semi-friendly terms, she had no desire to be subjected to his attentions again.

While the feast was in full swing and everybody seemed to be having a great time, Anna stepped out onto the veranda. It was getting too hot inside.

"Ms Mitchell, we have done it!" She heard the voice of Captain Norton, who joined her. "What do you say to that?!" He was very pleased with himself.

Simultaneously to the official negotiations, the three bankers were conducting their own talks, arranging the exchange of goods to and from Japan. All gentlemen involved expected their shares to be worth a lot of money.

"You have certainly earned your fee." He added.

She smiled, knowing well that she wouldn't be claiming her payment. She was going to say something, but their conversation was interrupted by Mr Thomas, who 'very urgently' needed to talk to his best friend, Captain Norton.

Anna smiled to herself. It seemed that now was the time to sneak out and return to the inn.

She walked fast, with hunched shoulders, to avoid the cold wind and rain. She was thinking only about a bath and sleep. It was a long day.

In the corridor outside the living quarters she suddenly heard hurried steps from behind. She turned around to see Morrison approaching, only now realising that he must had followed her. She was angry with herself for not paying enough attention.

His face was flushed - with exertion or saké, it was difficult to say. Perhaps with both? But his eyes were focused and shone with a purpose.

"Commander Morrison." She started in a light tone. "Have you already tired of the party?"

He stopped in front of her and looked her straight in the eye with intensity. "I wanted to be alone with you." His voice was hoarse.

She tensed immediately, sensing danger. But surely, he wouldn't...