Читать книгу The Shogun's Scroll - Stephen F. Kaufman - Страница 10

A Gift to

Minamoto Yoritomo

Shogun of All the Japans

from his most humble and loyal servant

Hidetomo Nakadai

My Liege,

You have suggested I advise you in matters of conducting the business of the realm. I beg your forgiveness for my intrusion into the affairs of great men such as yourself, but that you say I have proven myself to you over the long years through my service further gives me the honorable desire to serve you with all of my heart, mind, and soul for my entire life.

Please forgive my arrogance in thinking that I can put my ideas down for your consideration. I assure you that they are granted me by Heaven and that you are the only recipient of them.

May I suggest that the words be read with the true spirit of understanding that comes from my many years of contemplation on the ideas I am presenting. I humbly present my thoughts to you on the following matters and pray that you do not think of me as one who would consider himself as wise as you.

— Your esteemed servant, Hidetomo Nakadai