Book Two: Page 169 through 218 Summary and Analysis

The new year dawns. MM's household has never observed the superstition of not speaking inauspiciously on New Year's Day. Perhaps, she thinks, that is why things have not worked out that well for them. She quietly crawls out of her bed and advises her attendants to observe the rule of silence to begin the new day and new year. The household is happy and laughing. Her sister begins singing a funny song. Her son is joining in the fun as well. She sends a note to her husband who is getting ready to leave the house. Fujiwara responds with a comment about two fifth months in the new year in order to satisfy the lunar calendar.

The very next day, MM has an unpleasant incident involving the attendants. Her husband has sympathy for her and...