Tuesday, July 28, 2009

'Yes. I feel better already.'


I'm reading another mystery novel — with another unusual setting. The Convict's Sword, by I.J. Parker, is part of a series of detective stories set in 11th-century Japan. Just one of those curiosities I picked up on a whim and became engrossed in. I was not surprised when the first mention of tea appeared, and I'm mildly intrigued by this preparation:

Seimei brought the tea. He handed Akitada a small cup of steaming greenish liquid. "It's a special blend. I added some orange zest and a little honey and a few other good things to restore your spirit and soothe your empty belly." Akitada was touched. Seimei, like the others, had never shown him anything less than love and support. He tasted. "Excellent." He emptied the cup. "Yes. I feel better already."

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