Sent on January 15, 1886, from Osaka by Nakajima Tamajirou (中嶋玉二郎), he lists his address as 大坂北浜正栄館 (Osaka Kitahama Seieikan), a location that may have been a residence, business, or institution in the commercial district of Kitahama, Osaka.
Nakajima addresses Maeda with great respect, using the formal title 前田先生机下 ("Maeda Sensei, under your desk"), a phrase that conveys humility and deference. This suggests that Maeda held a position of authority or mentorship in Nakajima’s life, possibly as a teacher, mentor, or senior figure. The mention of 六要堂 (Rokuyōdō) once again appears, further emphasizing its significance in their correspondence. As we’ve discussed in previous posts, 六要堂 likely refers to an art studio, class, or cultural space associated with Maeda Yoshihiko.
In the message, Nakajima references a flood report published in the Asahi Shinbun (朝日新聞), one of Japan’s leading newspapers at the time. The Great Meiji Flood of 1885 (明治十八年の大水害) had a profound impact on several regions in Japan, with Osaka being notably affected (see the photos of contemporary illustrations). The flood submerged most of Osaka city, impacting approximately 270,000 residents. It was one of several severe natural disasters during the Meiji period, shaping Japan’s approach to disaster prevention and infrastructure development.
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