The Gift of Rain

Content Warning: This section of the guide discusses sexual harassment, death by suicide, illness, substance use, and death.

Philip travels on a boat with Endo, who must visit Kuala Lumpur for his work. Their boat is captained by a Dutchman named Captain Albertus van Dobbelsteen who recognizes Philip’s family name. Endo reveals that Albertus once worked for Hutton & Sons but was fired for drunkenness. Endo also says that their journey will include a stop to visit a colleague. As they travel, Endo encourages Philip to speak about his mother. Philip shares his few memories. Endo encourages him to meet his grandfather for the first time.

Endo’s colleague is stationed in Kampung Pangkor. Endo and Philip are led through the jungle, during which time Endo insists that Philip also learn to shoot a rifle. The rifle is a gift for Kanazawa, Endo’s colleague, who hopes to use it to fend off pirates.

That night, Philip and Endo stay in Kanazawa’s home and Philip listens to his sensei talk about duty, home, and family with a sense of longing. When they leave, Endo reveals that they will take a Japanese prisoner with them. He will be punished by the Japanese authorities in Kuala Lumpur, having betrayed his duty for a woman.