This passage demonstrates Hatsue’s profound selflessness. As Mishima posits throughout the novel, demonstrations of generosity and selfless acts are the mark of someone’s entrance into adulthood. Shinji’s mother is not just grateful, but also proud as she realizes that Hatsue has at last come into her own as a woman. Hatsue is good, selfless, and generous—she is all the things Shinji has always seen in her.