Pleasing things: finding a large number of tales that one has not read before. Or acquiring the second volume of a tale whose first volume one has enjoyed. But often it is a disappointment.

In life there are two things which are dependable. The pleasures of the flesh and the pleasures of literature.

Sometimes a person who is utterly devoid of charm will try to create a good impression by using very elegant language; yet he only succeeds in being ridiculous.

8. The Cat Who Lived in the PalaceThe cat who lived in the Palace had been awarded the head-dress of nobility and was called Lady Myobu.

A palm-leaf carriage should move slowly, or else it loses its dignity.

27. TreesI shall say absolutely nothing about the spindle tree.