America before long.'

 

'Perhaps. I don't know yet.'

 

'No doubt you will.'

 

For some time my father seemed to be studying the back of his hands. Then he

looked up and sighed.

 

'Kikuko is due to complete her studies next spring,' he said. 'Perhaps she will

want to come home then. She's a good girl.'

 

'Perhaps she will.'

 

'Things will improve then.'

 

'Yes, I'm sure they will.'

 

We fell silent once more, waiting for Kikuko to bring the tea.