Yet, when her hour was come, a
girl was born, and blind."
"Was she welcomed?" asked the dreaming voice of the Emperor.
"Augustness, but as a household drudge. For her food was cruelty
and her drink tears. And the shrine of the Senju Kwannon was
neglected by her parents because of the disappointment and shame
of the unwanted gift. And they believed that, lost in Her divine
contemplation, the Great Lady would not perceive this neglect.
The Gods however are known by their great memories."
"Her name?"
"Majesty, Tsuyu-Morning Dew. And like the morning dew she shines
in stillness. She has repaid good for evil to her evil parents,
serving them with unwearied service."
"What distinguishes her from others?"
"Augustness, a very great peace. Doubtless the shadow of the
dream of the Holy Kwannon. She works, she moves, she smiles as
one who has tasted of content."
"Has she beauty?"
"Supreme Master, am I not blind? But it is said that she has no
beauty that men should desire her. Her face is flat and round,
and her eyes blind."
"And yet content?"
"Philosophers might envy her calm.
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