Chapter 20 Summary

Before restrictions on long-distance travel begin, Morio and Toshiko send H and Yoshiko for a visit to their grandparents' home near Hiroshima. H is thrilled that he and Yoshiko are making the trip unaccompanied. H wants to take the express train, but Toshiko objects to the higher fare. With Morio's help, H is able to convince his mother that the express train would be best.

H and Yoshiko are allowed to go to the train station alone as well. When the train arrives, they board and find their seats as the train leaves the station. As they pass through the Takatori Station, H hears the loud clatter of blinds being drawn down by passengers, since it is forbidden to look at the scenery. H is impressed by the power of the military secrets law. At the next stop, H races outside to make...