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Tale Summary

There was once a young white fox named Fukuyémon, who, when he reached a fitting age, shaved his forelock and began thinking of taking a bride. His father gave him his inheritance and retired, and the young fox labored in gratitude. He had heard of a beautiful lady-fox who belonged to a famous old family, and resolved to take her as his bride. A meeting between the two showed they were a match, and so the ceremonies began. Presents sent to the bride’s house by the groom, speeches by the messengers, all acknowledged by a fee in copper cash. An auspicious day was chosen for the bride to go to the groom’s house, and during the procession it was sunny and raining at the same time. After the wedding, the bride changed her dress, and the wedding concluded. The two had a litter of healthy cubs, who, as soon as they were old enough, were carried to the temple of Inari Sama, the patron saint of foxes, and their grandparents prayed for their protection. So the white fox was prosperous with more and more children, and every spring had new cause for joy.

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