Chapter 26 Summary

A rumor is circulating that English language classes will no longer be given in the schools. H and his friends ask their language teacher, Mr. Matsumoto, if the rumor is true. He admits the existence of the rumor but tells them that it is unofficial. Matsumoto tells them to continue studying because it is useful to know the English language. He explains that even though it is unclear how much longer the English lessons will be allowed, he intends to continue teaching until the lessons are no longer allowed.

H realizes that Japan is experiencing a shortage of rifles one day when he is called to the armory. When he arrives, he sees two units of soldiers returning their rifles to the school. H wonders why a school would lend the army its rifles. H is told that the rifles originally belonged to...