There was once a time when Narihira had got to know a lady in the eastern part of Gojō and visited her regularly. The relationship was secret, so he was unable to enter in through the gate and instead went in and out through a break in the fence. His visits mounted up until the master of the house got to know of it and placed a night-watchman in his path. Although Narihira came, he was unable to meet the lady and returning home, composed this and sent it to her.
人しれぬわが通ひぢの關守はよゐよゐごとにうちも寢ななむ
| Fito sirenu wa ga kayoFidi no sekimori Fa yowi yowi goto ni uti mo nenanamu |
Unknown to all The path I take; Oh, that the sentry On every night Would swiftly fall asleep. |
Ariwara no Narihira
有原業平