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Episode 235

Oshin's new store was six months old,

and it was now New Year's, 1951.

Nozomi, who was studying pottery under a master,

came home for the holidays.

But Hitoshi, who had quit his job

in a department store in Tokyo was still missing.

and he didn't come home to Ise for New Year's.

Yuu's army friend, Kawamura, came for a visit that night.

It had been four years since he last came.

Thank you for not forgetting about my son.

I'm sure Yuu is very glad that you came.

I'd been meaning to come sooner, but...

If Yuu had come home safely from the war,

he'd be 28 now... Just like yourself.

It's so ironic...

I made it home when I had no one to come back to.

Yuu had Hatsuko and you to come home to,

but he didn't make it back...

What about your parents?

My parents and sisters didn't make it home from Manchuria.

When you came to us after the war to tell us about Yuu's death,

you were expecting your parents to return from Manchuria.

You didn't write us after you left,

so I thought your family had returned safely.

We wanted to write you and thank you

for everything you had done for Yuu,

but we didn't have your address.

I'm very sorry.

I wasn't in any shape to be writing people or receiving letters.

I had trouble finding out your new address.

The people at your old house said that you'd moved.

A lot has happened since your last visit...

I'm sure things were rough for you...

I looked for you at Mrs. Kamiyama's,

and she told me you'd opened a store here.

I was so relieved.

It's so nice to see you again.

Excuse me.

- I have some osake ready. - Okay.

We haven't much, but please join us.

Is Hatsuko still single?

Yes. She's a great help to me.

Make yourself comfortable.

- Here, Mr. Kawamura. - Thank you.

I haven't had New Year's food like this in years!

Even during the war, I was separated from my family.

Besides, there wasn't much food around.

After the war, I lived alone, so I have no one to cook for me.

It's sure is nice to have a family!

You're still single?

I didn't have the time or money to get married.

All I could think about was fending for myself.

None of your relatives helped you?

People have to care for their own first.

You've been alone?

In some ways it's good.

I only have to look out for myself.

And I've taken some chances in life, too.

My life is my own to do as I like.

Once a person has faced death, there's very little left to fear.

I've sold black market penicillin and methanol, too.

I did all I could to make money. No more conscience for me!

I started playing the stock market with the money I made.

I took some chances, and made it big.

I even built a house in Tokyo.

That's how I could afford to come here.

You came back from the war with nothing,

and yet you made good.

Everything is ready for your family when they return from Manchuria.

I'm sure they'll be happy.

I don't believe that they're alive.

It's been over five years since the war ended.

They would've been back home by now.

But I hear there are still many Japanese stuck in Manchuria.

I'm prepared to make a life on my own now.

I also run a small trading company.

No more black market dealings for me!

Very good, and you are still so young.

My youth helped.

And my experience in battle in the Philippines also helped.

My only regret is that Yuu didn't make it back.

Please don't mention him anymore.

I'm sorry.

I shouldn't be bringing up painful memories.

No. Talking to you is like talking to my own son.

There were many things Yuu wanted to do in life.

I'm sure Yuu will be happy if you lived for him, too.

I came back in Yuu's place.

I want to do all I can to help you.

Please don't hesitate to ask me for favors!

But... I came here today to ask for a favor.

I want to marry Hatsuko.

I don't need an answer right away.

I just wanted you to know how I feel.

I know that she was engaged to Yuu.

He talked to me about her all the time.

I went to war without ever having loved anyone.

Listening to him speak of Hatsuko made me envious.

Yuu said Hatsuko was his ideal...

I didn't really believe how wonderful she was.

I didn't take him seriously.

But after listening to him for so long,

I began to believe him. She became my ideal, too.

Being at the front may have had something to do with it.

Thinking about Hatsuko kept me alive.

I know you must think I'm being silly.

Before I knew it,

Hatsuko began to occupy all my thoughts.

But she was just an image in my dreams.

When I came home and met Hatsuko for the first time...

Please stop this!

I want you to stop this nonsense!

Hatsuko.

Why are you letting him go on and on?

You think this is all nonsense?

I don't know anything about you!

I don't like you talking about me like that!

I came here so that you'd get to know me, and how I feel.

I just want you to think about it.

I don't ever plan on marrying anyone!

Just before Yuu died,

he asked me to take care of you if I returned to Japan.

He really asked me to!

Thank you for your kind offer, but I decline.

I won't give up.

I have worked hard to become rich,

just so I could ask for Hatsuko's hand.

I'll do anything to get Hatsuko to know me.

I'd like to come over from time to time.

Please help me!

Welcome home.

I got a good price on squid today, so let's make shiokara.

It's best to peddle the fish while it's still fresh.

- Ask Tei to help us out. - Okay.

Hello, Mr. Kawamura.

I guess selling fish is a lot of work.

I've been staying at an inn near the ocean.

You didn't go back to Tokyo?

I looked at some land for sale in this area, too.

I found a tract of land for sale near the train station.

The area will be prime real estate soon.

This area isn't good for running a business.

No other stores will develop back here.

You'll never experience business growth here.

Other businesses will draw customers,

and they'll buy your fish, too.

There isn't enough pedestrian traffic here.

I know that.

But this was the only area I could afford.

I've decided to buy that tract of land.

In a year or so, the value should go up.

You deal in real estate, too?

I can lease that land to you if you'd like.

You will do a lot more business by the train station.

I want to buy it now before the prices go up.

I'm satisfied with this location.

After all, I'm just a woman running a business.

Then I'll just hold on to it undeveloped.

In a few years, I'll turn it over for a big profit.

I'll visit you again soon.

Please let me know if you're interested in relocating.

I'll be glad to lease it to you.

Bye.

Did he really buy that land?

Why does he have so much money?

He gives me the creeps.

Times sure have changed.

A young man like that can make big land deals single-handedly.

Maybe we owe it all to losing the war,

and the concept of freedom and democracy.

Episode 236

In the spring of 1951, there was still no word from Hitoshi,

who had quit his retail job in Tokyo.

Oshin and Hatsuko were working hard,

and their business was growing a little.

But everyone was very worried about Hitoshi.

I'd like to stop peddling fish out of the three-wheeler,

and just concentrate on the store, but...

Our store sales haven't been enough.

Maybe Kawamura was right... We need a better location.

Our business started out from peddling fish.

We have a lot of faithful clients.

How can I ever give you a better life than this?

You'll miss out on your chances for marriage.

Once can't get rich selling fish and vegetables...

No wonder Hitoshi left us.

It's enough if it's just me.

Once I put Tei through college,

I'll just have myself to look after.

I thought you had a bigger dream?

You wanted to stop renting, and own a big store.

We were poor and miserable during the war and after the war.

But now we're free to do what we want!

We can run our business any way we want,

and you wanted to work towards success.

I felt that way at one time,

but Nozomi has gone his own way,

and Hitoshi didn't want to sell fish.

There isn't much I can do on my own.

But this way, I could pay for your wedding.

But Mother...

That made me feel better.

Eventually I will quit peddling fish.

I'm back again.

Mother is at the beach buying fish to sell.

I came to see you.

I came on business...

What do you want?

Please forget about me.

I'm not worthy of marriage.

After the war, I worked near an American base,

and the American soldiers were my customers...

I was a prostitute.

So don't ever come to see me again.

I don't care about any of that. It's all in the past.

I have my share of skeletons in my closet, too.

It's more strange to have led a decent life after that terrible war!

You had your reasons for doing what you did.

We all went over the edge.

We not only sold our bodies, but our souls, too.

That's what the war did to us!

It was no one's fault. It was the war!

Yuu starved to death in the jungle, and the rest of us who survived...

Hitoshi's got scars from the war, too!

Those of us who survived suffered the most!

Let's stop feeling sorry for ourselves.

Let's cut ourselves off from the memories of war!

I'll be in Nagoya for a while on business.

I'll come and look in on you. You'll let me do that, won't you?

So you told him?

I thought he'd get over me if he heard it...

But it didn't faze him.

He said we all wear scars from the war.

He said it's the scourge of our generation.

Kawamura has suffered, too.

Maybe you two can make a go of it.

I'm glad you told him!

Don't worry about me. Just do what you want.

We're running a little late today. We'd better hurry.

Are you one of the Tanokura family?

I want to see Hitoshi's mother.

I'm Hitoshi's mother. Do you know him?

He's been causing me a lot of trouble.

He won't leave. Will you take him back?

Where is he?

He's at my apartment in Nagoya. Will you come and get him?

He calls himself a broker, but all he does is leech off women!

He owes me ¥30,000. I want it back.

I don't know what you and Hitoshi have going,

but it doesn't concern me.

Oh, come on! You're his mother!

Save your breath. I'm not going to get him.

I don't even want him back!

You can do what you like with him.

- You...! - Wait!

Is he really living at your place?

Yes.

Hitoshi.

She's gone off to her job.

Shave off that beard! I hardly recognize you.

Let's get you ready to go home.

You want me to sell fish again?

You want me to sell dirt covered vegetables?

What else can you do?

You left home six months ago.

Were you able to do anything on your own?

At least, you learned that life isn't that easy.

It was worth leaving home.

Business begins from selling a single fish,

or a single stalk of radish!

One sells one fish today,

and think about selling two tomorrow.

Then three the next day... Four the next, and so on.

That's how business grows!

You can't go up the stairwell in a single bound.

Isn't that what business is all about?

If you don't want to come home with me,

then come home on your own.

Make sure you come home.

Come home... and let's start all over again.

How long are you going to wait for Hatsuko?

You haven't even eaten dinner!

Where could she have gone?

I'm going to bed.

I'm sorry to come home so late.

You must be hungry. I waited to have dinner with you.

Hitoshi is all right.

He has no intention of coming home?

We can drag him home, but that won't do him any good.

And there will be hard feelings between the two of you.

I want him to come home on his own.

If he doesn't come home, let's give up on him.

- Lock up and let's go! - Okay.

Mother! Wait.

- What is it? - Look!

Hitoshi has come home on his own.

Let me drive!

That's why I came home.

Hatsuko, you stay home. Take these bags in for me.

Let's go, Mother!

Hold on tight!

Episode 237

What are you doing at home?

Welcome home!

What's going on? Did you take the day off?

No.

Mother went out by herself?

She's with Hitoshi.

That's why I'm making Hitoshi's favorite dinner tonight.

- He's back? - Yeah.

- Is he really home?! - Yes.

You always told me to go on to college.

Even after the war, you'd lecture me about it.

But I believed that my own ability

was the only thing I needed to make it.

The fact that I volunteered for the Navy,

and was the first in my class to qualify for the Kamikaze squadron

gave me a lot of confidence.

But after the war, nobody cared about that.

Even the job I got in Tokyo,

without an education, I had no future there.

They put me in the delivery section.

All I did was sort the packages for delivery.

All the other guys my age...

Just because they were college graduates,

they'd come to work in suits, and had important jobs.

I still believed I could do things on my own.

Then I met this man in a bar.

He and I started a brokerage business.

And we made money.

But we ended up buying stolen goods,

and we were swindled and we failed...

You came home because you had no other choice?

I guess it might seem that way.

But I didn't come home because I had to.

I now know that working at a respectable job is important.

That's why I want to start all over.

I want to make it through hard work,

even if I don't have an education!

If I don't, I'd be regretting that I didn't get

a good education for the rest of my life.

You can call me a coward for coming back.

But I want to see if I can do it.

I want to see how far I can go even without an education.

Hatsuko and I do very well on our own.

I don't think we can increase our sales here even if you help us.

You know that, and that's why you left.

But if you're willing to stay and help,

you'll have to find out how we can increase our profits.

Otherwise, you'd just be wasting your time.

You realize that, don't you?

If not having an education bothers you that much,

you have to be ready to do at least that much.

I'll make money for us!

If money is what it takes to win respect, I'll do it.

Hello.

I'm sorry to come without calling you first.

I'm surprised that you came all the way out here!

I need to ask a favor of you...

Let's sit down.

What can I do to help you?

You mentioned that you bought some property

near the train station in our town.

Will you lease it to us?

Hitoshi has come home,

and we want him to help us to expand our business

at a new, viable location.

I don't even know if we can afford the lease...

But if Hitoshi can make a go of it,

I'll be able to leave the Tanokura house.

And if you're still willing to marry me...

I'll gladly give that land to Mrs. Tanokura.

That's why I bought that land.

I lived, and Yuu died.

I wanted to do something for her, and for Yuu.

I'll be more than happy to give her the property.

But you're a different matter altogether.

I'm not trying to be self-righteous.

But I don't want to be seen as a man

who is trying to win you over with money.

I didn't mean it that way...

You still love Yuu.

That's why you're willing to sacrifice yourself for the Tanokuras.

Mr. Kawamura...

In any case, I'll turn the land over to Mrs. Tanokura.

That'll make me feel better, too...

I've suffered for five years,

for having survived, and for letting Yuu perish...

This will help to atone for that sin.

If you'd just sign these papers,

I'll have the property transferred to your name.

I don't understand...

You don't have to do this for us.

It's my duty to do this as a survivor.

If Yuu had come home, he'd be doing the same for you.

But...

Think of this as Yuu's keepsake, and accept this for me.

If you insist, but I can't just accept it.

It might take five or 10 years, but I'll pay you back.

If that's what you want.

In any case, I'll sign the land over to you.

I'm glad I could be of help.

I have no family to speak of.

And I've devoted my life to making money,

but I have no one to spend it on.

If I can make you happy, it'll make it all worthwhile.

For a money hound like me, it's a salvation.

Sorry to have stayed so late.

Hatsuko.

I'll wait for you, until the day you can love someone other than Yuu.

Bye.

I have a registered letter for you.

- Here you go. - Thank you.

Mother.

There's a registered letter for you from Mr. Kawamura.

Have you seen the newspaper this morning?

No. What is it?

[Moneylender Murdered]

It can't be! It must be some mistake!

Look at the picture... It's Mr. Kawamura.

He was a loan shark and a hard-nosed one at that.

One of his clients killed him...

He survived the war, and lost his family in Manchuria...

His relatives were very cold towards him.

The bitterness he carried inside made him turn to money lending.

If it weren't for the war,

he would have lived a peaceful life like everyone else.

The war made him like that... The poor man.

Just like it killed Yuu... the war killed Mr. Kawamura.

He's a casualty of the war!

He sent this to you...

Kawamura had sent Oshin the deed to the property near the station.

Signing over the property to Oshin.

Kawamura had wanted to do this out of the feeling of guilt

for having watched Yuu died.

The war had changed his life, too.

Oshin buried Kawamura's unclaimed body

next to Yuu's empty grave.

He had a tough time...

He could only believe in money.

I never want to go through another war!

Two lives were brought to ruin by war,

Oshin felt pity for both of them.

But the land that Kawamura had left to Oshin

was to be the start of a new life for her.

Episode 238

In 1951, Mr. Kawamura, Yuu's friend was murdered.

The property that he'd given to Oshin

was to offer her an opportunity to start a new business.

Four years passed by...

It's been 10 years since Yuu died in the Philippines...

Soon we'll be celebrating

Yuu and his father's 13th-year memorial...

Time passes by so quickly. No wonder I'm old...

I'm sure Yuu and Mr. Kawamura are trading stories in the afterlife.

Mr. Kawamura's parents couldn't be found?

No, Hatsuko and I claimed his ashes and buried him.

His relatives appeared after his death

to file claims on the money he left behind.

But none of them would take his ashes.

People sure are selfish...

Hitoshi didn't show up.

It's Yuu's memorial,

but he said he had important business to attend to.

That's how he is!

He's very serious about business.

But to whom does he owe that business and the success we have?

He should come and visit his grave.

Mother...

That land was left to me by Mr. Kawamura.

But he did it as a gesture towards Yuu.

I consider that property a gift from my son.

Hitoshi doesn't seem to understand that.

I'm sure he does.

He's worked hard to expand the Tanokura Store.

You two are always giving him too much credit.

- She's so hard on him! - Yes.

We're all happy that Hitoshi is doing so well.

How are things going with you?

I still don't know if I'm good or not,

but I intend to continue as long as my pottery teacher doesn't throw me out.

I guess you're pretty good,

since he hasn't disowned you in the five years that you've been there.

For your 60th birthday,

we'll all be drinking out of sake cups that I'll have made myself.

I look forward to it.

Did your master give you the day off?

It's a special occasion.

Good. We have a lot of stories to catch up on.

Welcome!

You all went to visit the grave site?

It's Yuu's memorial anniversary.

We didn't see you there.

I couldn't get away.

Welcome.

I didn't go to college,

so I have to work harder to win respect.

I want to show everybody that I can do it,

even though I don't have a college education.

You're doing just fine running this store.

Here is today's orders,

and I have an order for a wedding reception tomorrow.

For a party of 100!

Write it all down so I won't forget anything.

I need it when I go to buy our supplies.

You still go out and buy all the stuff yourself?

You need experience for that.

Hisa is gone now,

but there are a lot of people I know from the old days.

I still buy vegetables directly from the farmers, too.

They're cheap and fresh.

She still drive the truck by herself.

I want her to stop, but she won't listen.

Buying is key to a successful business.

I can't trust young people to do a good job yet.

Let's have tea.

Welcome home.

Yuri, are you enjoying your work here?

Yes, thank you.

I'll prepare dinner tonight. Go help in the store.

I'll make some hot water.

I'll do that.

I have to change.

- Yuri. - Yes?

I'll give you a hand when it's less buy in the store.

Nozomi is here today, so I'll cook dinner.

- Go on out to the store. - Okay.

Yuri hasn't changed at all.

She was 17 when she first came here to work.

It's been three years.

Since Tei left for college last year,

Yuri has been like a daughter to me.

Her mother died, and her father remarried.

That's why she came to us,

but she's cheerful and she's a very good worker.

She's very close to Hatsuko, too.

Hatsuko told me that Yuri reminds her of her early days here.

I can't help but remember when I was

working in a household back in the old days...

I want to keep her here until she gets married.

Isn't she your type?

Oh, come on!

Who knows when I can afford to get married.

You and Hitoshi are 26. You should be thinking about it.

All Hitoshi thinks about is business.

He is the eldest son now.

He doesn't want to burden you with a new wife in the house.

Hitoshi isn't one to think like that!

I had my share of in-law problems.

Now I'm at an age when I'm ready to be a mother-in-law.

I hate getting old!

You gave me the wrong change!

- I'm sorry! How much? - It's short by ¥10.

¥10? Thank you!

Be careful.

Welcome.

Welcome.

I haven't had your home cooking in ages.

There's a lot more.

Cooked clams?

Have some sake.

Thanks.

It's like a war out there at supper time, isn't it?

We sold out of sashimi.

I think we can buy more fresh fish.

Many working men buy expensive cuts to take home.

The economy is getting better now.

I guess I can start buying differently from now on.

People are starting to buy

very expensive pieces of pottery from my master, too.

There are a lot more people with money now.

The country is getting richer.

We don't want to end up selling on fish and vegetables!

There you go again...

Why complain? We do fine just selling fish and vegetables.

We have more than 100 tsubo of land here,

and we're located on prime real estate!

There are better uses for our lot here.

It's such a waste.

Stop it. We'll just keep on doing what we do best.

There she goes...

We can build you a new house on our lot here once you get married.

I have some money set aside for you, too.

So don't get greedy and start taking chances!

Mother doesn't know how fast the world is changing out there.

All he ever does is call me old-fashioned!

I don't know what he's thinking.

I'm going to Tokyo for a few days.

So please take care of things here.

Hitoshi.

I'm not going there to play, but to study.

But, Hitoshi...

I'm 26. I want to do things on my own.

Let's have a drink.

Sorry to put you out like this.

Never mind. I'll get you some water.

It's about Hitoshi...

Never mind him!

He's still feeling bad about not having gone to college.

I'm ready to let him go out on his own.

If that's what he really wants.

Don't you worry about it.

Hatsuko.

Is something wrong?

No. I'm just going to the bathroom.

It was 1955. The war had been over for 10 years now,

and Japan was changing rapidly.

The Tanokura Store was changing, too.

And the family was also

about to face some new problems as well.

Episode 239

- Welcome home. - I'm home.

You must be tired.

Where's Hitoshi?

He's getting ready to go out.

- Where is he going? - To Tokyo.

He told you.

He said he was taking the night train.

He's stopping off at Nagoya first.

Mother!

Welcome home.

You know what time I get back each morning!

Why didn't you help me unload the truck before getting ready to leave?

I had changed into my suit already.

Jiro and Isao will be coming in soon.

Let them do it.

You want me to just leave the fish in the sun until then?

The fish will all spoil by the time they both come.

- I'll help you. - No.

Hatsuko and I can do it ourselves.

I'm just upset at Hitoshi for going off to Nagoya and Tokyo!

Who knows for what reason he is going!

Mother...

I'd meant to just let him go

without asking any questions about it.

But he should still be more helpful to us!

Give me a break!

Why can't you just send me off nicely?

Enjoy your stay.

Send him off with a smile. Don't let him leave angry.

Sorry for not helping.

Please look after Mother and the store for me.

What business do you have in Tokyo?

I need to see some new sights.

Being cooped up here in this country town

makes one lose sight of what's really going on.

You're coming back, aren't you?

Of course. I'll be back in four or five days.

You've pulled a disappearing act in Tokyo before.

Don't forget to get Mother a present.

No. She'll just yell at me for being extravagant.

She doesn't mean it when she complains.

Be careful.

Both Ken and Taka are dead,

so there's no one in Tokyo for me to send presents to.

I'm sorry to be leaving like this when we're so busy,

but I'll work hard when I get back.

- Okay. - I'll go now.

- Take care. - Bye.

- Take care. - Take care.

Let's get this done.

Come and help us, Hatsuko!

You haven't eaten yet?

I wanted to wait to eat with you.

You sure do work hard!

You get up early and go out to buy all that fish.

Having that truck sure makes things easier.

When I used to peddle out of a cart,

I'd have to walk that distance to and from the beach.

Young people nowadays...

Don't say that! The times have changed.

You always say that.

We have other problems to deal with now.

The days of being able to sell anything are over.

Now the competition to sell is great.

Hitoshi is trying to figure out

how we can survive in such a business climate.

I'm not complaining about Hitoshi not working hard.

He's serious about business, and he studies a lot.

But he's not like us...

He is only interested in making quick profits.

That's only natural for a businessman.

He's set to inherit this store from you.

You shouldn't be complaining.

Right after the war, when we didn't have anything,

I worked hard being a black marketeer.

I think Hitoshi took that to heart...

I have no right to be criticizing him.

As his mother, maybe I'm at fault.

Mother...

Yuu was always such a sweet boy.

But Hitoshi...

I told you not to compare Hitoshi with Yuu.

Hitoshi has got a lot of good qualities, too.

You have no choice, Hitoshi is your heir.

So believe in him!

Okay?

I'm sorry, I shouldn't have complained.

It's been a while since you've been home,

but you're the only one I can complain to.

I've betrayed your expectations, and I'm out doing what I want.

Listening to you complain is the least I can do.

Thanks.

Hello.

What's going on?

We were supposed to meet on the train tonight.

Why did you call me to meet you now?

Well... I wanted to see you sooner, that's all.

In Tokyo, I'll be with your father the whole time.

We won't have any time for each other.

Don't worry. My parents trust you.

And I took a room in the same hotel as you.

Welcome.

- I'll have a lemon tea. - Okay.

I'm surprised you were able to leave.

You're busy at your store, aren't you?

It's my mother's store. She handles everything.

Did you tell her about the seminar?

No, she'd press me with questions,

so I just told her that I was going to Tokyo.

I'm impressed!

I wish you'd tell her about us.

I know, but timing is important.

My father has already checked up on the Tanokura store.

He says the location is good,

and to have 100 tsubo of land is important for future expansion.

That's why he has agreed to us marrying.

Does he know I haven't had much schooling?

He's checked up on that, too.

My father has a grammar school education.

He apprenticed in Osaka at an early age,

and he built up his clothing business from scratch.

I should learn from him.

He says the future is all up to you.

That's why he signed you up for this seminar.

So please study hard!

I'm interested in the seminar,

but I'm worried about being together with your father all that time.

I don't want to give a bad impression.

Don't worry. Have more confidence in yourself.

If it all goes well, my father will sponsor you.

So try hard, for my sake, too.

I will.

What shall we do until it's time for our train?

I mended your kimono,

and I got you some new underwear, too.

Thank you.

Mother wants you to have some spending money.

No. I get an allowance from my pottery teacher now.

Take it. She wants you to have it.

I hope you don't get upset, but...

Won't it be hard for you to stay after Hitoshi marries?

You should think about getting married, too.

I've decided to stay with Mother until the end.

Maybe so, but Hitoshi won't be single forever.

I know that.

But maybe I can get along with his wife.

Who knows what kind of girl he will marry.

It might be too late for you then.

Don't worry.

He's chosen someone just right for us.

He has someone?

Not so loud!

You know who it is?

Don't say anything yet, Mother doesn't know.

I see. If you approve of her, Mother will, too.

I will tell you once Hitoshi breaks it to us.

Please give Mother my best.

She'll be home shortly!

Yuri, thanks for everything.

Your cooking has sure gotten better.

Hatsuko has been teaching me.

She's learned to cook the Tanokura way.

She's one of us now!

Well then.

Thanks. That's enough.

I think driving makes you stiff.

I guess so.

Driving takes a lot out of me.

You should let someone else do the driving.

Everybody is too busy.

I don't want you to get sick.

You're the only one who worries about me.

Yuri. Better take your bath before it gets cold.

That feels much better. Thanks.

Bathe now and get to bed.

I'll do that.

I get to sleep well because Yuri always gives me a good massage.

How do you feel about Yuri?

I think she's very nice and sweet.

- A rare find nowadays. - You're right.

She would make Hitoshi a good wife.

I know you think highly of Yuri, but Hitoshi is the one to decide.

He'd never go for her!

What if he tells you he wants to marry her?

I'm telling you this because Hitoshi and Yuri are no longer just strangers.

I wanted to know how you felt about it.

I had been noticing it for a while now,

and my suspicions have been confirmed!

You have proof of this?

I wouldn't mention it if I had any doubts.

I thought you should know before Hitoshi breaks the news.

I think Yuri would make Hitoshi a good wife.

This revelation was a surprise to Oshin.

She had never given the matter any thought at all.

Now it came to her as a big shock.

Episode 240

You saw Hitoshi going into Yuri's room?

I'd noticed that about them a month ago...

When I got up to go to the bathroom,

I heard a man's voice coming from Yuri's room.

It really surprised me.

I didn't think that she'd do something like that.

I wanted to see who this man was, so I waited until he came out.

I was doubly surprised when it was Hitoshi.

I'd wanted to confront Yuri with what I'd seen,

but I decided to wait until I had definite proof.

Since then, I've seen him going into her room on many occasions.

Why didn't you tell me?

I'd thought about telling you sooner,

but Hitoshi is already 26.

It's not that strange that such things happen.

Besides, if Yuri is in love with Hitoshi,

it's only natural that this happened.

I understand. I'll talk to Yuri tonight.

Wait.

It's better if you talked to Hitoshi about it.

You'd only be putting Yuri on the spot!

That Hitoshi... Enjoying himself in Tokyo.

He better take responsibility for what he's done!

Wait till he gets home!

Thank you for the bath.

Shall I put the fire out under the bath?

Never mind. Thanks for working so hard.

- Good night. - Good night.

- Yuri. - Mother!

Please check the doors before going to bed.

It's just women here tonight.

I will.

It's not her fault!

Don't do anything until Hitoshi tells you about it himself.

He's my own son, but I can't figure Hitoshi out.

I have no idea why he went to Tokyo.

It's good for him to see

how business is in Tokyo once in a while.

What's there for him to learn in Tokyo?

We have our own ways of running a business here.

To sell fresh fish and produce at a good price.

What other ways are there?

About women, too. He doesn't have to sneak around!

If they love each other, let them marry!

Hatsuko.

I'm sure Hitoshi wants to.

But he knows how you feel,

so he's afraid to mention it to you yet.

He thinks you'll oppose.

Of course! He can do a lot better.

Mother... You've changed.

You weren't like this before...

When Father stopped Yuu and me from getting married,

you stood up for me. It made me so happy.

Now that our business has grown and we have some money,

you seem to have changed.

I think Yuri is a very nice girl.

She has worked for us for three years now,

and she's never acted badly to us, no matter what we said to her.

She's very sweet and gentle.

People are funny...

My mother-in-law in Saga strongly opposed me marrying her son,

and it made me so angry!

Maybe we got married because she opposed our marriage so much.

Now I'm sounding just like my old mother-in-law.

Yuri is very nice, and I like her.

But it's just that Hitoshi has had so many good marriage offers.

I know that Hitoshi isn't a great catch.

Someone who knows our family well will make the best wife for him.

And she gets along so well with you, too.

Hitoshi isn't wrong in choosing her.

Maybe Hitoshi has made a great choice!

You'll let them marry?

Let's just leave things be for awhile.

I'm sure Hitoshi will mention it sooner or later.

I'm so glad!

I pondered over telling you about it at all.

I know you don't approve of immorality.

I was just worried about how you'd react.

If Hitoshi surprised you by telling you about it himself.

You're right.

You know how upset I was just now.

We probably would've had a big fight if Hitoshi was here.

I'm glad you told me.

You're welcome.

What if I'd opposed their idea of marriage.

Yuri would have been terribly hurt.

That's right!

We have no choice anyway, so let's be happy for them.

Yuri may be too gentle for our retail business,

but she'll be a good homemaker.

Hitoshi will run the store anyway. Besides, you're still very healthy.

I think Yuri is perfect for the Tanokura family.

I never thought about Hitoshi's marriage.

Now it's suddenly upon us!

The truck is all clean now!

Thanks.

- Good morning! - Morning.

You sure are pretty.

Let's go.

Please be more careful about what you say!

- Yuri has gotten prettier. - Mother!

It's funny. I feel more loving towards her

now that I know she'll be marrying my son.

Please be careful.

Bye.

- Bye. - Bye.

Good morning.

Good morning.

I wasn't expecting you to be here.

I came when I heard you were coming.

She just wants to shop in Tokyo!

We arrived last night, but you just got in.

You must be tired.

No. I showered and took a nap.

Thank you for all your help.

I really wanted you to attend this seminar.

It's been 10 years since the war ended.

Japan is facing a bright future.

Systems of management are changing, too.

We must keep up with the changes! I want you to study very hard.

I'll do my best.

You two should talk about business later.

Let's talk about Michiko.

That's why I came all the way from Nagoya.

We're getting along just fine.

If Mr. Tanokura intends to marry you,

he has to come to us with a formal offer.

You two can't just keep seeing each other like this.

- Isn't that so? - Yes...

We have three boys, and Michiko is our only girl.

We'd wanted to find her an adoptive husband,

but parents can't always have their say.

We live in a democracy now.

Before the war, parents had more say.

There you go again!

She's precious to us,

and we're letting you have her because we're impressed with you.

We'd like to offer you as much support as you need.

That's why we want to meet your mother.

We want to tell her how we feel.

It's strange that you still haven't told her about Michiko.

We've raised her in a way that we can be proud of her.

Isn't that why you want to marry her?

Timing is important for this kind of talk.

We shouldn't have to beg him to marry her!

If your mother won't approve,

I'll have you both forget that there ever was anything!

Mother!

Mothers tend to get this way...

Michiko is important, but this seminar is, too!

This could change your whole life.

You can garnish a dish with greens.

You can make foods look and taste better.

Thank you for all your work.

We're done for the day.

Dinner will be ready soon.

This is for Hatsuko, and this is for Yuri.

There was a sale on,

so I bought blouses for both of you.

See if you like it.

Go on, open it.

It's cute!

May I really keep it?

It's for your nightly massages, and you're such a good worker.

Thank you so much!

Put it up against you, so we can see.

Looks great!

Oshin was beginning to see Yuri as Hitoshi's bride.

But while all this was going on,

Hitoshi was secretly arranging to marry someone else.

Episode 241

Hitoshi hadn't told his mother why he was going to Tokyo.

He returned about five days later.

You'd better get to bed. Tomorrow is an early day.

Yes.

I'll be doing some sewing. Call me if you need me.

It's Hitsohi.

I'll be right there!

Welcome home.

- I'm home. - Welcome home.

I'm so tired.

We didn't make a bath tonight.

You should've called.

We had no idea when you'd be coming home.

Shall I make a bath for you now?

No. I'll wipe myself down later.

What about dinner?

I ate when I switched trains in Nagoya.

- Bring me a beer. - Okay.

What's this?

It's a present. Slippers.

A gift? This is so unusual...

You should accept it graciously!

This is for Hatsuko, and this one is for Yuri.

I got you both handbags.

Is an earthquake coming or something?

It's not often that I get to Tokyo.

This one is too fancy for me.

That's why men shouldn't shop for women!

I had a woman pick the gifts for me.

You were with a woman?

I do have a girlfriend or two...

She has poor taste!

That style is popular this year!

What were you doing in Tokyo?

You didn't just go there to get us gifts.

What I did there just might change my life.

- Here you go. - Thanks.

Hitoshi got this for you.

I have important things to tell you.

We'll be going then...

No. I don't mind if you two listen.

I want to talk about management systems for our store.

I went to Tokyo to attend a seminar.

At first, I didn't have any idea what it was all about,

but I wanted to learn some new ideas.

What I heard opened up my eyes.

It's a revolutionary idea for retail!

A self-service store.

We do fine just the way we are. Our sales are growing.

We can't just sit back and be satisfied.

We'll be left behind by all the changes!

We need to get more aggressive in sales.

I've heard about this self-service.

But in the retail business,

we have to show heart and sincerity to our customers.

We need to deal directly with the customers.

We want to be able to hand over their purchases directly to them.

That's the nice part about retail.

We own 100 tsubo of land here.

If we utilize it fully into a self-service store,

we can sell a lot more than fish and produce.

If we put in a cash register,

we can save on personnel and operating costs, too.

We can sell a whole variety of things,

and our profits will increase dramatically!

No more going around taking orders door-to-door.

Hitoshi.

That's time consuming, and if we stop it,

we can sell more goods at a lower price.

We won't have to bow down to people.

We will just sell better things for less,

and customers will come to us.

It's time for us to rethink things!

I have my own ways of doing business.

And it's served us well all this time!

You're all hyped up after this seminar.

No matter what you say, I won't change.

So don't waste your breath on me.

This is my dream!

My life's dream...

That's enough!

You plan to run our business into the ground with your strange ideas?!

I've operated many businesses ever since I was very young.

Earthquakes and wars have closed me down.

Now, finally, I run my business successfully.

My decades of trying are finally paying off.

Even if you are my son,

I won't let you do anything to jeopardize it!

I'm going to bed.

I know how frustrated you must be.

There isn't much profit in fish and produce.

I don't blame you for having dreams,

but Mother has worked hard to build up this business for us.

She is already 55. She's too old for adventures.

This is her store. I have no say in it!

That's not true!

She's done it all for you!

She wants to build it up so you can take over.

Please try to understand!

You're still up?

Hitoshi has gone to bed.

We didn't get around to talking about Yuri.

Hitoshi's mind is too full of this self-service business.

He didn't even speak to Yuri. I feel so sorry for her...

Are all men like that when it comes to their jobs?

Maybe I should attend this seminar, too.

What are you saying?

There must be something to it

for Hitoshi to get so excited about it.

I don't have any dreams of changing my ways.

But if I don't know about things,

Hitoshi and I won't be able to communicate.

And Hitoshi wouldn't understand me.

That's true.

I wonder who got Hitoshi interested in all this?

It's his youth, and that's what's nice about it.

Remember that notice for a seminar that came to me a while back?

From a cash register maker.

- I threw that away. - I see.

Then I'll ask around, I'm sure there are others.

Don't tell Hitoshi about this.

Okay.

We'll hold off on discussing Yuri's situation for a while.

We'll wait until Hitoshi settles back down.

Marriage wouldn't be right away anyway.

- Shall we get to bed? - Yes.

- I'm off. - Take care.

Hello, this is the Tanokura Store.

Thanks for all your help in Tokyo.

My mother is strongly opposed to the self-service idea.

She doesn't have a good grasp of the times.

No, I have given up.

But now isn't the time to be discussing our situation.

We have to get her to agree to our idea first.

Don't worry.

She'll come around to it, so be patient until then.

Thank you! We will be talking to you again.

Mother is late. It's almost noon.

I hope she hasn't been in an accident.

She is probably just having tea somewhere.

I want her to stop driving that truck.

I worry every day!

But it means a lot to her to be able to go on her own to get fish and produce.

That's her!

I got cabbage today at a good price.

It's a bumper crop for cabbage this year.

I'll be going to Kyoto tomorrow.

You know, for that seminar. It's being held in Kyoto,

and I'll get to tour one of those self-service stores there, too.

Tell Hitoshi I went off to see a sick friend.

The next day, Oshin left for Kyoto.

It was to bring yet another change in her life.

[Tanokura Store]

Welcome! Welcome!

Thank you!

Welcome!

Thank you.

Welcome!

Don't you feel well?

- What's the matter? - Are you okay?

I'm all right.

Don't scare us like that.

Come and help us out in the store.

I'm sorry.

Did something happen in Kyoto?

Things are too hectic out in our store...

Maybe the age of self-service is here.

Shall we go out for a drink?

Yes.

You can go home now.

So that's what you were doing in Kyoto?

Self-service stores might be good,

but it costs big money to get it started.

We could never do it.

If you're serious about it,

I have someone who is willing to put up the money.

My fiancé's father will help us.

I have someone I intend to marry. We'll talk about it tonight.

Episode 242

Marriage?

Do you realize what you are doing?

I'm 26. I'm old enough to get married.

Look.

I met her at a ski lodge at New Year's.

She is very nice. A graduate of junior college.

She and I get along really well,

and her parents are good to me, too.

Her father manufactures clothes in Nagoya.

He has taken a liking to me, too.

But he's a little critical of our business here.

He says we're foolish for just selling fish and produce

at such a prime location like this.

It's none of his business!

We have been doing just fine until now.

Yes, but he says we should better utilize the location.

He says it's a waste to hire so many workers,

and still be so busy.

I'm sure you found all this out at the seminar you attended in Kyoto.

Michiko's father...

Mr. Kawabe is willing to put up the necessary money.

He'll also set us up with wholesalers of other goods

we can sell at our store.

No, thanks!

The man is Michiko's father.

It wouldn't be like borrowing from a money lender.

He wants his daughter to marry into a prosperous household and business.

He's thinking of it as his daughter's dowry.

You want to marry this girl for the money?

Mother!

Is that the kind of man you are?

Is that how you think of me?

I love Michiko!

I'm not marrying her for her father's money!

It's just that I've been embarrassed about talking to you about Michiko,

and that's why I mentioned the self-service concept to you first.

What about Yuri?

Mother...

How will you take responsibility!

You think you can really marry this Michiko?

Just you think about it! I won't allow any impropriety!

Mother has been looking forward to having Yuri become your bride.

She thinks Yuri will make a good home for you.

You love her, don't you?

The store can remain as is.

There's no need to marry a rich girl.

Just make a good home with Yuri.

- Yuri. - Yes?

Can we talk after you're done cleaning up after dinner?

Yes.

Hitoshi...

Did something happen between you and your mother?

She wants to talk to me tonight...

Does she know about us?

Both she and Hatsuko know about us.

Mother wants us to marry.

But as I've said to you,

I have another girl I intend to marry.

I'm willing to give her up if you really want me to.

I won't try to get out of our relationship.

Just tell Mother exactly how you feel.

I'll take full responsibility for my actions.

Even if I end up selling fish and produce for the rest of my life.

I've brought it upon myself.

My life isn't worth much anyway...

There is nothing between you and Hitoshi?

Hatsuko has seen him going into your room at night many times.

You don't have to cover up for him.

It's only natural that he take full responsibility for his actions.

As his mother, I won't allow him to cause you unhappiness.

Well, Yuri...

You've been so good to me over the past three years...

I'm very sorry for having betrayed your trust in me.

We are not here accusing you of anything.

We just want to know how you feel about everything,

so we can determine what to do.

I've never dreamed of becoming his wife.

Your son has someone more suited than me.

Are you serious?

I've long resigned myself to that fact...

I don't think I can really make him happy.

His heart is not with me.

He has someone else on his mind now...

And that person can make his dreams all come true...

That's what he said.

That's why I'm able to give him up.

So there's nothing... between us now.

I'd like to resign my job here effective immediately.

You've done nothing wrong!

You can stay, and you need not feel ashamed!

I'll try to figure out what we can do for you.

We want to make it all up to you.

I don't expect you to do anything for me,

and I have no resentment towards anyone.

I'm just sorry for causing you this trouble...

Please... forgive me!

Wait.

Yuri!

Yuri!

Yuri. Yuri!

Please leave me alone.

Hitoshi has become a very pathetic individual...

I sure didn't raise him that way.

Are you all done talking?

I was hoping that Yuri and I could settle that matter between ourselves.

Now that you've come into the picture,

nothing is going to go right.

Shame on you!

You can't blame only me for this.

I never promised Yuri that I'd marry her.

Be quiet!

We just liked each other!

You've ruined Yuri's chances for happiness.

Excuses won't help you now!

What do you want me to do?!

I'll marry her if that's what you want!

I'll take responsibility!

She doesn't want to marry you. She's disgusted with you!

I see. That's too bad!

Yuri is a good, sweet girl.

I want her to be happy.

I'll do all I can to help her.

I'm willing to help her out forever!

Children just don't turn out the way you want...

Where did I go wrong?

It's the times... It's all a part of this freedom.

I feel so badly for Yuri...

We will never be able to make it up to her.

We'll do something to guarantee her future.

Oshin couldn't forgive Hitoshi for being so callous with Yuri.

Even if it meant severing her ties with Hitoshi,

Oshin was willing to keep Yuri with her,

and do her best to make her happy.

But Yuri was gone the next morning...

Morning.

Yuri left a note.

She's left me one, too.

She says she can't remain here in this house.

Episode 243

Hitoshi! Get up!

Yuri is gone. She's left the house!

Do you know where she might have gone?

She says she can no longer stay with us.

Why did she have to leave so suddenly?

She didn't even leave a forwarding address.

I guess she can't bear to see your face!

I'd wanted to have a talk with her again.

And if she still wanted to leave,

I'd set her up with a new job, and a place to live.

That's how I wanted us to part. As friends.

You're so insensitive! You broke her heart.

There's no way she would want to talk to you!

I had no idea she was taking it so hard...

She left last night while we were asleep?

I didn't realize she left...

How can you be so heartless? Who do you think drove her away?

You chased her out of this house!

Did she tell you about any friends or acquaintances?

No. She didn't tell me a whole lot about herself.

I will not allow you to marry this Michiko!

But, Mother...

After what you did to Yuri, how can you marry someone else?

I don't care how rich she is.

I will not take money from them to renovate our store!

Mother!

Have you forgotten the problems we all faced at the end of the war?

We were selling goods on the black market.

Every time we'd get arrested,

you used to tell us that we'd have our own store someday.

I haven't forgotten...

I can't forget how it felt.

I'll run a successful business. No matter what it takes!

This is our big chance...

A new economic order is in the works.

If we miss our chance now,

we'll just end up selling fish and produce for the rest of our lives!

Selling fish and vegetables is fine with me!

Compared to peddling black market goods,

having this store is like a big dream!

And you want more?

Tanokura Store is mine!

You will not have a hand in running it.

And if you don't like it, then just leave!

Stop it!

You've broken the heart of an innocent girl,

and you want to expand the business?

You're not human!

We must find Yuri! It's all your fault.

Be careful while driving.

I'm sure Yuri will contact us, so don't worry too much.

I don't think she'll come back to us.

She was such a nice girl...

Once we find her, I'll do all I can to make her life easier.

But Hitoshi will never be able to make up for what he did.

Maybe it's my fault that Hitoshi is like that...

Making money... That was our major concern.

Hitoshi grew up watching me live that way.

It's not just his fault. It's my fault, too.

Yuri!

Did something happen at home?

Did they send you here?

I have... left my job.

We can't talk out here.

Come on in.

Have a seat.

I'm sorry to trouble you.

I don't have anyone else I can talk to.

Did you quit or did they make you quit?

Can I help you patch things up with them?

No.

I don't plan on ever going back there.

You have worked there for three years,

I thought everything was going well.

What happened anyway?

I won't push it if you won't want to talk about it.

I hear there are many large pottery studios here.

I thought you might find me a job. Maybe as a maid.

I need a live-in job.

I know you can help me.

You didn't talk to Mother or Hatsuko about this?

Yuri...

I left without telling them...

I understand.

I'm sure you had a good reason for leaving.

I'll find you a job.

Don't worry about it. We'll figure something out.

I'm glad you came to me.

I would have been really worried

if I just got word that you left suddenly.

Yuri did not come home that evening.

Oshin was ashamed of her son.

He was acting as if nothing happened.

- Welcome! Welcome! - Welcome!

Hello, this is the Tanokura Store.

Mahjong at 7 o'clock? I will be there.

Welcome!

Thank you.

You smell like fish.

I didn't have time to change.

Why didn't you call me since you got back from Tokyo?

A lot has happened since then.

My father is wondering if you really are serious about marrying me.

He's insisting on meeting your mother soon.

Hold on. The timing has to be right.

But, Hitoshi...

I told them I'm playing mahjong tonight.

I don't have to be home early.

So, come on.

- I'm going home tonight. - Michiko.

Can my father come over this Sunday?

He's not going there to plead with your mother.

If we can't be married, let it be.

I just want to know, one way or the other!

If you have no intention of marrying me,

my father will demand some kind of compensation.

It's only natural that people are questioning your sincerity.

I'm ready for anything.

That's what I came to tell you tonight.

- Bye. - Wait, Michiko.

I'm back.

Welcome home. You're home early.

Somebody else took my place.

Oh, I didn't know you were here.

Welcome home.

Yuri came to Nozomi about getting her job.

She'll be working for Nozomi's teacher.

- She came to see you? - Yeah.

My teacher's wife took a liking to her.

There's so much to be done in the kitchen.

They were looking for a housekeeper anyway.

That's good... Isn't that great, Mother?

Why did Yuri leave here?

She didn't tell you?

No. I didn't want to have to pry it out of her.

You know how Mother is. She's hard to get along with.

Hitoshi.

I was worried, but at least I know she's safe now.

I'm getting married!

With Yuri gone, Mother and Hatsuko will be busier than ever.

My new bride can help out! It's the right time.

Michiko's father is coming this Sunday to talk to you.

So please see him. You will like him!

Translation: UTB Channel

Thanks to Avallac'h and XrayMind at D-Addicts.