It is ten minutes until tomorrow, so here it is:
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March 3, 1839—Akita
The man knocked on Tanaka’s door early in the morning. He had come from outside the city, looking for work. His landlord, a minor noble, had increased rent, as the winter had been fiercer than normal. That meant the peasants were forced to leave for the towns. It was unfair, true, but his landlord had bought the land back at higher prices, to help him out. He had heard the shogun was like that.
Tanaka opened the door. “How may I help you this fine day, sir?”
“Sir, I was told by Tomoko-san, the good man at the town hall, that you had need of a laborer?”
“What’s your name and origin, sir?”
“I am called Teiji Tojo, sir. I am from a village north of here. The winter was harsh.”
“You have family?”
“Yes, sir. They are staying at the town hall right now.”
“Well, Teiji, you have yourself an occupation, now.” A smile crept onto Tanaka’s face. A broad grin followed on Teiji’s. “You and your family can stay in the back room. If you work hard, benefits will follow.”
Another man approached the door, obviously looking for Tanaka.
“Well, go ahead and fetch your family, Teiji. You start work tomorrow. Is that fine?”
“Yes, sir.”
Teiji, turned, left, and was replaced by another man, built small, but powerful. He spoke with a deep voice.
“Tanaka-san, I heard your name mentioned as a prospective employer.” It was not a question.
“Yes, good sir. By your tone, I take it you know the kind of work I need?”
“I am a master carpenter, temporarily put out of work due to the winter. I disliked my old boss anyways.”
“Who was your former employer?”
“Old Kino, up the street.”
“Kinoshita? Yes, I know him. What’s your name?”
“Ichiro Matanabe. I live eight streets over.”
“You have a job, Ichiro. Work hard, and you will be rewarded. You begin tomorrow.”