Book One: Pages 95 through 136 Summary and Analysis

Fujiwara responds to MM's open and sincere letter. He expresses his love for MM but offers no apologies for his behavior. He reminds MM that her father asked him to take care of her which, he insists, he has done. He reminds her of times when she refused to see him, times when he banged on her door with no response. Fujiwara dismisses his relationship with his first wife as casual. He suggests to MM that if she is so unhappy with him, perhaps she should find another husband. He tries to pull on her heartstrings by reminding her of their memories together and of the son they share.

They exchange more letters, tinged with the excitement of a rekindled love. MM is heartened to learn that the other woman is trying everything she can...