The boy travellers in the Far East : adventures of two youths ... - Library

A CUP OF SA-KEE.
A JjU'ANESH BREAKFAST.
finds in nearly all Eastern countries. < )n her left was a cliest of drawers
M'itli curions locks and handles, which doubtless contained tlie family
wealth of linen.
As they went on, after their view of a Japanese interior, Frank asked
what was the name and character of the liquid the woman was pouring
into the glass or cup for her husband.
" That was probably sa-kee," replied the Doctor.
" And what is sa-kee, jDlease ?"
"It is," answered the Doctor, " a sort of wine distilled fi-om rice.
Foreigners generally call it rice wine, but, more properly speaking, it is
rice whiskey, as it partakes more of the nature of spirit than of wine.
It is very strong, and will intoxicate if taken in any considerable C|uantity.
The Japanese usually drink it hot, and take it from the little cups that
you saw. The cups hold so small a quantity that a great many fillings
are necessary to produce any unpleasant effect. The Japanese rarely drink
to intoxication, and, on the whole, they are a very temi^erate people."
Fred thereupon began to moralize on the policy of introducing Japan-
ese customs into America. He thought more practicable good could be
done by the adoption of the Japanese cup—which would teach our people