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diff --git a/.gitattributes b/.gitattributes new file mode 100644 index 0000000..d7b82bc --- /dev/null +++ b/.gitattributes @@ -0,0 +1,4 @@ +*.txt text eol=lf +*.htm text eol=lf +*.html text eol=lf +*.md text eol=lf diff --git a/LICENSE.txt b/LICENSE.txt new file mode 100644 index 0000000..6312041 --- /dev/null +++ b/LICENSE.txt @@ -0,0 +1,11 @@ +This eBook, including all associated images, markup, improvements, +metadata, and any other content or labor, has been confirmed to be +in the PUBLIC DOMAIN IN THE UNITED STATES. + +Procedures for determining public domain status are described in +the "Copyright How-To" at https://www.gutenberg.org. + +No investigation has been made concerning possible copyrights in +jurisdictions other than the United States. Anyone seeking to utilize +this eBook outside of the United States should confirm copyright +status under the laws that apply to them. diff --git a/README.md b/README.md new file mode 100644 index 0000000..c700534 --- /dev/null +++ b/README.md @@ -0,0 +1,2 @@ +Project Gutenberg (https://www.gutenberg.org) public repository for +eBook #67650 (https://www.gutenberg.org/ebooks/67650) diff --git a/old/67650-0.txt b/old/67650-0.txt deleted file mode 100644 index 2a39660..0000000 --- a/old/67650-0.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,5338 +0,0 @@ -*** START OF THE PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK 67650 *** - - - - -[Illustration: “A warrior burns incense into his helmet when he is -determined to die on the field” - -See page 194] - - - - - TALES OF THE SAMURAI - - - Stories illustrating Bushido, the Moral Principles - of the Japanese Knighthood - - BY - - ASATARO MIYAMORI - - - Professor of English in Toyo University, - Tokyo, Japan - - - Author of “Representative Tales of Japan,” - “Tales from Old Japanese Dramas,” &C. - - - With 8 Coloured Illustrations - By A Japanese Artist - - - THE KYŌ-BUN-KWAN - - Ginza, Tokyo, Japan - - 1920 - - - - - PREFACE - -The following tales of the samurai, the knights of old Japan, are based -largely on real facts. They have been adapted from among traditional -stories related by _kōdanshi_, story-tellers, who nightly delight -large audiences with romances and historical stories, especially the -noble deeds of the samurai. There are also numerous Japanese books and -magazines devoted to stories of this description, which are read with -keen interest by all classes of our countrymen, in particular by young -people. - -It is true the samurai class has gone forever along with feudalism; -but fortunately or unfortunately the Japanese at large are samurai -in a sense. During the last half century European civilization has -revolutionized Japanese society, both for better and for worse. In -institutions political and social, in manners and customs, in arts -and literature, the Japanese have lost many of their characteristics; -yet it may safely be said that the sentiments, motives and moral -principles of the samurai in some measure remain in the bedrock of -their character in their subconsciousness, so to speak. The Japanese of -to-day are intellectually almost cosmopolitans, but emotionally they -are still samurai to no small degree. - -Honest Kyūsuké, the hero of the story of the same title, was not a -samurai, but his principles were those of a samurai. Let that justify -the inclusion of the story in this volume. - -The author’s hearty thanks are due to Mr. Joyen Momokawa, a celebrated -_kōdanshi_, who kindly helped him in the choice of these tales, and -also to the editor of the _Kōdan Kurabu_ for permission to translate -_Katsuno’s Revenge_, one of his stories. - - A. Miyamori. - Tokio, December, 1920. - - - - - CONTENTS - - - PAGE - - Ungo-Zenji 1 - - The Loyalty of a Boy Samurai 23 - - Katsuno’s Revenge 35 - - A Wedding Present 83 - - The Heroism of Torii Katsutaka 115 - - The Wrestling of a Daimio 141 - - The Story of Kimura Shigenari 165 - - Honest Kyūsuké 203 - - - - - LIST OF ILLUSTRATIONS - - - PAGE - - “A warrior burns incense into his helmet when he - is determined to die on the field” _Frontispiece_ - - “May I ask you to explain the place of honour - given to a garden _geta_?” 18 - - “I caught these sparrows quite of my own accord” 32 - - She filled Hachiya’s cup to the brim 52 - - Terumasa took hold of the man’s collar and twisted - his face upwards 108 - - He raised his voice so that every word rang clear - and distinct 138 - - Gonshirō threw him by a supreme effort down on to - the mats 153 - - “Whose hat is that?” 217 - - - - - UNGO-ZENJI - - -It was snowing fast. - -Already as far as eye could see the world was covered with a vast -silvery sheet. Hill and dale, tree and field, all alike clothed in -virgin white. - -Caring nothing for the bitter cold, but loving the beautiful, Daté -Masamuné determined to go out to enjoy the scene. Accordingly, -accompanied by a few attendants, he wended his way to a pavilion set on -a low hill in the castle grounds whence an extensive view, embracing -the whole of his little fief of Osaki, could be obtained. - -In later life Masamuné distinguished himself by signal service rendered -to the state, eventually becoming one of the greatest daimios in Japan, -under Iyeyasu, the first Shogun, but at this time Osaki was his sole -estate, and his income did not exceed 100,000 _koku_ of rice a year. - -“What an enchanting picture! What can compare with a snow landscape?” -he exclaimed, as he stood enraptured, gazing with delight from the -balcony of the pavilion at the pure loveliness of the scene before -him. “It is said that snow foretells a fruitful year. When the harvest -is abundant great is the rejoicing of the people, and peace and -prosperity reign over the land!” - -While his lordship thus soliloquized, Heishiro, the -sandal-bearer—Makabé Heishiro as he was called from his birthplace, -Makabé in Hitachi, a surname being a luxury unknown to the third -estate—waited without. Having adjusted his master’s footgear there -was nothing more to do till he should come out again. But presently -Heishiro observed that the snowflakes fell and lay somewhat thick on -his valuable charge. He hastened to brush them off with his sleeve, but -more flakes fell, and again the _geta_ (clogs) were covered with icy -particles. - -“This will never do,” he said to himself. “His lordship disdains to -wear _tabi_ (socks) even in the coldest weather, deeming it a mark of -effeminacy; should he place his bare feet on these damp _geta_ he will -assuredly catch cold. I must keep them warm and dry for him.” - -So the good fellow in the kindness of his simple heart took up the -heavy wooden clogs, and putting them in the bosom of his garment next -to his skin, continued his patient waiting. - -“His lordship comes!” - -Heishiro had just time to put the _geta_ straight on the large stone -step at the entrance before the double doors slid open fight and left -and Masamuné appeared, young, imperious. - -He slipped his feet on to the _geta_. How was this? They felt warm to -his touch! How could that be in such freezing weather? There could be -but one explanation. That lazy lout of a sandal-bearer had been using -them as a seat—sitting on the honourable footgear of his august master! -The insufferable insolence, of the fellow! - -In a passion at the supposed insult he caught the offender by the nape -of his neck, and shook him violently, exclaiming between his set teeth, -“You scoundrel! How dared you defile my _geta_ by sitting on them! You -have grossly insulted me behind my back! Villain, take that....” - -Catching up one of the clogs which he had kicked off, he struck the -poor servitor a heavy blow between the eyes, which caused him to -reel stunned and bleeding to the ground. Then hurling the companion -_geta_ at his prostrate victim, he strode proudly back to the castle, -barefooted, for he was in too great a rage to wait until another -pair of _geta_ could be brought. - -No one stayed to look after Heishiro. None cared what became of him. -For some time he lay as he had fallen, but presently the cold brought -him back to consciousness, and he rose slowly and with difficulty to -his feet. - -He picked up the _geta_ with which he had been struck, and with tears -mingling with the blood on his face gazed at it mournfully for a few -moments. Then, as the thought of his master’s injustice came over him, -he gnashed his teeth in impotent rage. - -“Haughty brute, that you are, Masamuné,” he muttered, “you shall pay -for this! The bond between us as lord and vassal has snapped for ever. -I have been one of the most devoted of your humble servants, but now -I will never rest till I have had my revenge on you for this cruel -treatment!” - -Then Heishiro again put the _geta_ into his bosom, though with how -different an intention from before, and descending the hill on the side -furthest from the castle, limped painfully away. - - * * * * * - -From that time forth the man had but one idea—to wreak condign -vengeance on the arrogant noble who had so abused his kindness. - -But Masamuné was a daimio, though a poor one, while Heishiro was only -a serf. Assassination was impossible, Masamuné being always well -guarded even while he slept, besides possessing considerable bodily -strength himself. He must have recourse to other and subtler means. He -thought long and deeply. There were only two persons of higher rank -than the daimio who could affect his position at will—the Emperor and -the Shogun. But how could a man of Heishiro’s standing gain the ear of -either of these two illustrious personages so as to slander Masamuné -and influence them against him? The very idea was absurd! True, it was -a warlike age and promotion speedily followed the achievement of a -deed of valor; with a spear in his hand and a good horse under him one -might rise to almost any height. But Heishiro was no soldier and his -physical strength was small. With a sigh he admitted to himself that -the accomplishment of his purpose did not lie that way. - -And then a happy thought struck him. He remembered that any one, high -or low, great or small, could become a priest and that the prospects -held out in that profession were boundless. There was no distinction -to which a man of the lowliest parentage and the weakest body might -not aspire. A learned priest with a reputation for sanctity might get -access to Court—gain the notice of the Emperor himself! - -That was it! - -Heishiro resolved to turn priest, and with this in view made all haste -to Kyoto, where he entered the Temple of Ungoji in Higashiyama as an -acolyte. - -But the career of an acolyte is none of the easiest. Before he can -be received into the priesthood he must go through all forms of -asceticism, self-denial, and penance. Furthermore, he has to serve his -superiors as a drudge, doing the most menial tasks at their command. -Heishiro had a very hard time of it. A man of ordinary perseverance -might have succumbed and given up. Not so Heishiro. Not for a moment -did he dream of abandoning his self-imposed task. He was determined as -long as there was life in him to endure every hardship and humiliation, -so that eventually he might attain his end. Still he was but human, and -there were times when his weary body almost gave way and his spirit -flagged. His racked nerves seemed as if they could bear no more. At -such times he would look in a mirror at the reflection of the deep -scar on his brow, and draw from its place of concealment the odd garden -_geta_, saying to himself, “Courage! Remember Masamuné! Your work is -not done yet.” - -Then strength and calmness would return and he once more felt equal to -labour and endure. - - * * * * * - -Little by little Heishiro rose in the favour of his superiors, and his -learning showed marked progress. At length, he thought he might get on -faster if he went to another monastery, and the Temple of Enryakuji on -Mt. Hiei being the largest and most renowned of all places of sacred -teaching in Japan, he applied there for admission and was readily -admitted. - -Twenty years later, Jōben, for that was the name Heishiro took on -entering the priesthood, was known far and near for his erudition and -strict application to all observances of a life of the most austere -piety. But he was not satisfied. He was still very far from being in -a position to attract the notice of the Emperor. Yet higher must he -climb. To be world-famous was his aim. - -So he made up his mind to go over to China, justly regarded as the -fountain-head of all knowledge and wisdom. All she could impart of the -Buddhistic faith he would acquire. As soon as an opportunity offered -Jōben sailed from his native shores and found himself among a strange -people. Here he remained ten years. During that time he visited many -famous temples and gathered wisdom from many sources. At last the -fame of the traveller reached the ear of the Chinese Emperor, who was -pleased to grant him an audience, and graciously bestowed on him a new -sacerdotal name, that of Issan-Kasho-Daizenji. Thus it came about that -Jōben left his country acknowledged, indeed to be a wise and holy man, -but he came back to be regarded as the foremost divine in Japan. - -After his return Issan-Kasho-Daizenji stayed at Ungo-ji, the temple -in Kyoto where he had entered on his noviciate. He had heard nothing -of Masamuné for some years and was anxious to learn what had become -of him. He was unpleasantly surprised to hear that the object of his -hatred had also risen in the world, and that now as lord of the Castle -of Sendai he was considered one of the most important men of the -day. Not only did he hold a high office at Court, but as the head of -the North-Eastern daimios, even the Shogun had to treat him with -respect. All this was annoying if nothing worse. The Zenji saw that he -would have to bide his time, and act warily. A false move now might -render futile all his long years of travail. - -But after all he did not have to wait very long. - -The Emperor was taken ill and his malady was of so serious a nature -that the skill of the wisest physicians proved of no avail. The highest -officials of the Imperial Household met in solemn conclave to discuss -the matter and it was decided that earthly means being vain the only -hope lay in an appeal to Heaven. - -Who was the priest of character so stainless, of wisdom so profound -that he might be entrusted with this high mission? - -One name rose to all lips—“Issan-Kasho-Daizenji!” - -With all speed, therefore, the holy man was summoned to the Palace and -ordered to pray his hardest to the Heavenly Powers for the restoration -to health of the Imperial patient. - -For seven days and seven nights the Zenji isolated himself from all -mankind in the Hall of the Blue Dragon. For seven days and seven nights -he fasted, and prayed that the precious life might be spared. And his -prayers were heard. At the end of that time the Emperor took a turn for -the better, and so rapid was his recovery that in a very short time all -cause of anxiety about him was over. - -His Majesty’s gratitude knew no bounds. The Zenji was honoured with -many marks of the Imperial regard, and as a consequence, all the -ministers and courtiers vied with each other in obsequiousness to the -favourite of the Emperor. He was appointed Head of the Ungoji Temple, -and received yet another name, Ungo-Daizenji. - -“The attainment of my desire is now within reach!” thought the priest -exultantly. “It only remains to find a plausible pretext for accusing -Masamuné of high treason.” - -But more than thirty years had elapsed since Makabé Heishiro, the lowly -sandal-bearer, had vowed vengeance on the daimio Daté Masamuné, and -not without effect had been his delving into holy scriptures, his long -vigils, his life of asceticism and meditation. Heishiro had become -Ungo-Daizenji, a great priest. His character had undergone a radical -change, though he had not suspected it. His mind had been purified -and was now incapable of harbouring so mean and paltry a feeling as a -desire for revenge. Now that the power was in his grasp he no longer -cared to exercise it. - -“To hate, or to try to injure a fellow-creature is below one who has -entered the priesthood,” he said to himself. “The winds of passion -disturb only those who move about the maze of the secular world. When a -man’s spiritual eyes are opened, neither east nor west, neither north -nor south exists—such things are but illusions. I have nursed a grudge -against Lord Daté for over thirty years, and with the sole object of -revenge before my eyes have raised myself to my present position. -But if Lord Daté had not ill-treated me on a certain occasion, what -would my life have been? I should, probably, have remained Heishiro, -the sandal-bearer, all my days. But my lord had the unkindness to -strike me with a garden _geta_ without troubling himself to find out -whether I deserved such chastisement. I was roused to anger and vowed -to be revenged. Because of my resolve to punish him I turned priest, -studied hard, endured privations, and so, at length, have become -one of the most influential priests in the Empire, before whom even -princes and nobles bow with reverence. If I look at the matter in its -true light it is to Lord Daté that I owe everything. In olden times -Sakya Muni, turning his back upon earthly glory, climbed Mt. Dantoku -and there served his noviciate with St. Arara. Prince though he -was, he performed all menial offices for his master, who if ever the -disciple seemed negligent, would beat him with a cane. ‘How mortifying -it is,’ thought the Royal neophyte, ‘that I, born to a throne, should -be treated thus by one so far beneath me in rank,’ But Sakya Muni was -a man of indomitable spirit. The more humiliations he had to suffer -the more earnestly did he apply himself to his religious studies, so -that, at the early age of thirty he had learnt all his teacher could -impart, and himself began to teach, introducing to the world one of -the greatest religions it has ever known. It may truthfully be said -that Sakya’s success was largely, if not wholly, due to that stern -and relentless master who allowed no shirking of his work. Far be it -from me to institute any comparison between my humble self and the -holy Founder of Buddhism, but, nevertheless, I cannot deny the fact -that the pavilion in the grounds of Osaki Castle was my Mt. Dantoku, -and this old garden _geta_ my St. Arara’s cane. Therefore it should be -gratitude, not revenge, that I have in my heart for Masamuné, for it -was his unconsidered act that laid the foundation of my prosperity.” - -Thus the good priest relinquished his long cherished idea of -vengeance, and a better feeling took its place. He now looked upon -the blood-stained _geta_ with reverence, offering flowers and burning -incense before it, while day and night he prayed fervently for the long -life and happiness of his old master, Lord Daté Masamuné. - - * * * * * - -And Masamuné himself? - -As stated above he attained great honours and became a leading man in -the councils of his country. But at the age of sixty-three he tired of -public life and retired to pass the evening of his days at his Castle -of Sendai. Here, to employ his leisure, he set about the restoration of -the well-known temple of Zuiganji, at Matsushima, in the vicinity of -the castle, which during a long period of civil strife had fallen into -decay, being in fact a complete ruin. Masamuné took it upon himself to -restore the building to its former rich splendor, and then when all was -done looked about for a priest of deep learning and acknowledged virtue -who should be worthy to be placed in charge of it. - -At a gathering of his chief retainers he addressed them as follows:— - -“As you know I have rebuilt and decorated the Zuiganji Temple in this -vicinity, but it still remains without a Superior. I desire to entrust -it to a holy and learned man who will carry on its ancient traditions -as a seat of piety. Tell me, who is the greatest priest of the day?” - -“Ungo-Zenji, High Priest of the Ungoji Temple in Kyoto is undoubtedly -the greatest priest of the day,” came the unanimous reply. - -So Masamuné decided to offer the vacant post to the holy Ungo-Daizenji, -but as the priest in question was a favourite at Court, and enjoyed the -confidence of the Emperor, it was necessary that His Majesty should -first be approached before anything was said to the Zenji. Masamuné -tendered his petition in due form and as a personal favour to himself. -The Emperor who retained a warm affection for the retired statesman, -readily assented, and thus it came about that Ungo-Zenji was appointed -Head of the Zuiganji Temple in the beautiful district of Matsushima. - -On the seventh day after his installation, Masamuné paid a formal call -at the Zuiganji to welcome the new arrival. He was ushered into the -private guest-room of the Zenji which was at the moment unoccupied. -On turning to the alcove his attention was at once arrested by the -sight of an old garden _geta_ placed on a valuable stand of elaborate -and costly workmanship. - -“What celebrated personage has used that _geta_?” said the astonished -Masamuné to himself. “But surely it is a breach of etiquette to -decorate a room with such a lowly article when about to receive a -daimio of my standing! However, the priest has doubtless some purpose -in allowing so strange an infringement of good manners.” - -At that moment the sliding doors opened noiselessly, and a venerable -man in full canonicals and bearing a holy brush of long white hair in -his hand, came in. His immobile face was that of an ascetic but marred -by a disfiguring scar on his forehead between the eyes. - -Ungo-Zenji, for he it was, seated himself opposite his guest and -putting both hands, palm downwards, on the mats bowed several times in -respectful greeting, Masamuné returning the courtesy with due ceremony. - -When the salutations were over, Masamuné could no longer restrain his -curiosity. - -“Your Reverence,” he began, “in compliance with my earnest request you -have condescended to come down to this insignificant place to take -charge of our temple. I am profoundly impressed by your goodness -and know not how to thank you. I am a plain man and unskilled in words. -But, your Reverence, there are two things which puzzle me, and though -at this our first interview you may deem it a want of good breeding to -be so inquisitive, may I ask you to explain the place of honour given -to a garden _geta_, and the scar on your brow that accords so ill with -your reputation for saintliness?” - -[Illustration: “May I ask you to explain the place of honour given to a -garden _geta_?”] - -At these words, poured out with the impetuosity he remembered in -Masamuné as a young man, the priest smiled a little. Then he withdrew -to the lower end of the apartment and with tears glistening in his -sunken eyes, said:— - -“How rejoiced I am to see your face again. To gaze upon your unchanged -features reminds me of the days of my long past youth.” - -“What, your words are strange! How can I remind you of your youth, -when, to my knowledge, we never met till this day?” - -“My lord, have patience, and I will explain all,” replied the Zenji. -“In those days I was but a servant—a sandal-bearer known as Makabé -Heishiro—it is not likely so humble an individual would retain a -place in your memory. It was when you were residing at the Castle of -Osaki....” - -He paused, but Masamuné, too amazed to utter a word, only looked -intently at his former servant as if trying to recall having ever seen -him before. - -So Ungo-Zenji went on with his story, and in detail told all that had -befallen him since that snowy day more than thirty years before. He did -not spare himself, but told how through all those years he had been -actuated by a feeling of revenge and revenge only, and how the thought -of some day seeing his enemy in the dust had been the spur to goad him -on to conquer all difficulties, to surmount every obstacle. - -“At length,” concluded the priest, “I came under the notice of the -Emperor who so magnified a trifling service that he loaded me with -rewards and marks of favour. ‘Now is my time!’ I thought. But to my own -astonishment I found that so vile a passion no longer existed in my -nature—the desire for revenge had fled. I began to view the affair in -a different light, and to look upon you as my benefactor. But for you -I should still be a sandal-bearer—but for you the stores of knowledge -at my command would never have come within my reach—but for you the -intercourse I have had with the illustrious and sage men of two -countries would have been an impossibility. Therefore, my hatred is -turned to gratitude, my wish for vengeance to a heartfelt desire for -your long life and prosperity. I pray daily that some day I may be -enabled in some small measure to requite the inestimable benefits I owe -to you. Your lordship now understands why I so treasure an old _geta_, -and how it is I bear this ugly scar on my brow.” - -Masamuné listened to the narrative with growing wonder and the deepest -attention. At its conclusion he rose and taking the Zenji by both hands -gently, but forcibly, drew him to the upper end of the apartment. When -both were again seated he spoke. - -“Your Reverence,” he said in a voice full of emotion. “What you have -just told me quite puts me out of countenance. I can just recall the -incident of which you speak and I remember how angry I felt at what in -my arrogance I deemed a gross insult. I do not wonder at your desire -for revenge, but, that you should renounce the triumph that was yours -for the asking—that, indeed, amazes me! Such magnanimity is almost -incredible! You prove to me that religion is not the empty abstraction -some call it, and I humbly beg your pardon for my past offence, and -request you to enrol me as one of your disciples.” - -In this way, Masamuné who was of a frank and noble disposition repented -of the fault committed in his youth, and the sandal-bearer achieved a -greater victory than he could have boasted of had he caused his enemy -to die a shameful death. - -A hearty friendship sprang up between the two generous minded men, and -till death parted them many years later they saw much of each other -and their affection grew. The priest was always a welcome guest at the -Castle, while with earnest piety, Masamuné prosecuted his studies in -sacred lore under the guidance of Ungo-Zenji. - - - - - THE LOYALTY OF A BOY SAMURAI - - -Matsudaira Nobutsuna was one of the ministers of the Shogun Iyemitsu, -next to Iyeyasu, the ablest of all the Tokugawa Shoguns. A man of great -sagacity, he contributed not a little to Iyemitsu’s wise administration. - -When Iyemitsu was a young boy named Takechiyo, Nobutsuna who was called -at that time Chōshirō served him as one of his attendants and playmates. - -One morning when the young nobleman was passing along a corridor -accompanied by Chōshirō and two other boys, on the way to the private -apartments of his father, the Shogun Hidetada, his attention was caught -by some fledgling sparrows that were hopping about and chirping gaily -on the tiles of the roof. Takechiyo, then but ten years of age, was -seized with a fancy to have them; and turning to Chōshirō, three years -older than himself, he commanded:— - -“Catch those little sparrows for me, Chōshirō.” - -“With pleasure, your lordship; but should I be found catching sparrows -I should be reprimanded by his Highness and the officials. Fortunately -I shall be on duty to-night; so to-night I will climb out on to the -roof when there is no one to see me, and give you the little birds in -the morning. Will you please to wait till then, my master?” - -“I suppose I must.” And the small company passed on. - - * * * * * - -That night when all was quiet, Chōshirō managed somehow or other to -get out on to the roof, and crawling carefully on all fours to the -spot where the parent birds had built their nest, reached out one hand -and seized one of the little sparrows. Poor little things! Surprised -in their sleep they were not able to escape. Transferring his captive -to the left hand Chōshirō again stretched out his right and caught -another. Whether the attainment of his purpose caused him to relax his -care or for some other reason, certain it is that at this moment his -foot slipped and with a heavy thud he fell down into the court-yard -below. As he fell he involuntarily clutched the birds more firmly so -that they were instantly squeezed to death. With the dead birds -in his hands, he fainted. But the roof was comparatively low, and he -also had the good fortune to fall on to some bushes so that he was not -killed as might have been the case. - -The sound of the fall awoke the Shogun. He started up and followed by -his consort and some attendants went out on to the verandah and opening -a sliding shutter looked down. By the light of a lantern held by one -of the servants he perceived the boy lying on the ground just beneath. -Chōshirō had now recovered consciousness and was trying to rise though -the pain he felt all over his body rendered the operation one of -considerable difficulty. His consternation was great when the light of -the lantern revealed his person to those on the verandah. - -“Chōshirō, is that you?” called his lord, recognizing the boy at once. -“It is strange that you should be on my roof at this time of night! -Come up instantly and explain your conduct. This must be inquired into.” - -The boy, still holding the dead sparrows, obeyed. Prostrating himself -before the Shogun he waited for him to speak. - -“What have you in your hands, Chōshirō?” - -“Sparrows, my lord.” - -“Sparrows? Do you then climb roofs at midnight to catch sparrows? A -strange fancy!” - -“Yes, my lord. I will tell you the truth. When Takechiyo Sama and -I were passing along the corridor this morning his attention was -attracted by some little sparrows on the roof and we stopped to watch -them. Takechiyo Sama said ‘What dear little things they are!’ and the -desire then arose in my mind to get them for him that he might play -with them. So to-night when everyone was asleep I climbed out on to the -roof of your apartments in disregard to the respect I should have shown -to your august person, and caught two of the young sparrows. But how -quickly the punishment of Heaven followed my crime! I fell down as you -see and my wickedness was discovered. I am ready for any chastisement -your lordship sees fit to inflict.” - -“My lord,” here broke in Lady Eyo, the Shogun’s consort. “Excuse my -interference, but I think Takechiyo must have ordered Chōshirō to catch -these sparrows. There is no doubt about it.” - -It should be explained that Lady Eyo had two sons—Takechiyo and -Kunimatsu. Takechiyo, the elder, was sharp-witted and active though -rather rough in his manners; his brother, on the contrary, was -quiet and effeminate. For this and probably some other unknown reason -the younger son was his mother’s favourite, and it was her desire that -he should be appointed heir to the Shogunate in place of his elder -brother. She therefore lost no opportunity to disparage Takechiyo in -the estimation of his father, hoping thereby to attain her object in -due time. - -“What a thoughtless boy Takechiyo is!” agreed the Shogun. “This was -undoubtedly done at his instigation. How cruel to command Chōshirō to -endanger his life by catching birds on a roof at night! Though he is -but a child there is no excuse for him. The proverb says ‘A snake bites -even when it is only an inch long.’ One who is so inconsiderate to his -attendants when young cannot be expected to govern wisely and well -when more power is invested in his hands. Now, Chōshirō,” turning to -the boy who still knelt at his feet, “Takechiyo ordered you to get the -sparrows; is it not so?” - -Chōshirō had heard with surprise the unkind words of the Shogun and -his lady about his adored master. What did they mean by the words “A -snake bites even when it is only an inch long?” If their feelings -towards the boy were already so antagonistic what would they think and -do should the real facts of the case be disclosed? Chōshirō firmly -resolved to take all the blame even at the risk of his life. - -“Oh, no, my lord,” said he earnestly. “Takechiyo Sama never gave me -such a command, never! I caught these sparrows quite of my own accord. -I meant one for Takechiyo Sama, and one for myself.” - -[Illustration: “I caught these sparrows quite of my own accord”] - -“Nonsense! Whatever you say I know Takechiyo is at the bottom of it. -You are a bold fellow to dare to tell me an untruth!... Let me see, -what shall I do to you?... Here, bring me one of those bags.” - -The Shogun pointed to some large, strong leather bags, resembling -a money-pouch in shape, in which in the event of a fire or of an -earthquake his valuables would be incased before putting them into the -_dozō_ or fire-proof godown. - -When the bag was brought the Shogun said:— - -“Now, Chōshirō, if you don’t confess the truth, I will have you put -into this bag and never allow you to go home again, nor give you any -food. Do you still persist in your falsehood?” - -“It is no falsehood, my lord. It is the truth that I caught the -sparrows of my own wish. No one but myself is responsible for my -misdeed. My fall from the roof was the punishment of Heaven. It is -right that you should chastise me also. I beg you to do so.” - -With these words, Chōshirō, betraying no signs of fear, put himself -into the bag. - -“What a stubborn boy!” exclaimed the Shogun in anger. - -Then with the help of his consort he tightly fastened up the bag with -the boy in it, and had it hung from a peg on the wall of the corridor. -Leaving the poor child in this state all retired once more to their -broken rest. - - * * * * * - -Late the next morning, having had breakfast and finished her toilet, -Lady Eyo, attended by two maids of honour, came out to the corridor -where the bag still hung and ordered it to be taken down. On opening it -the boy was found still holding the dead sparrows. - -“Good morning, your ladyship,” said Chōshirō, rubbing his eyes with his -closed fists. - -“You were ordered by Takechiyo to take the sparrows, is it not so?” -said Lady Eyo kindly, hoping to make the boy confess the truth. - -“No, my lady. It was my own idea. Takechiyo Sama had nothing whatever -to do with the matter.” - -“Come, boy, if you are so obstinate you will have to remain a prisoner -always, and never have anything to eat. But if you confess what I am -convinced is the truth, you shall be released and have food at once. -Now tell the truth.” - -“My lady, as you command me to do so I will tell the truth; but I am -so hungry that I find it difficult to speak at all. May I ask for some -food first? If you will allow me to have even some _musubi_,[1] I will -say all you wish.” - -“Good boy, you shall have some _musubi_ at once.” - -The lady gave the order and soon the boy was eagerly devouring the -rice-cakes. Three or four large ones made a good meal. - -“Thank you, my lady; I am now able to speak.” - -“Then confess the truth, good boy, confess quickly; I am tired of -waiting.” - -“Forgive me, my lady; I caught the sparrows of my own accord. I -received no order direct or indirect from Takechiyo Sama. That is the -truth.” - -The lady for once forgot herself and flew into a passion. Stamping -her foot on the floor, she rushed into the Shogun’s room and gave him -an exaggerated account of what had happened. He was very angry. - -“The young rascal,” cried he, rising, and taking his Yoshimitsu sword -in his hand, “I will kill him myself. Tango Hasegawa, bring Chōshirō -here.” - -Tango found the culprit sitting in the bag his hands on his lap. - -“Chōshirō,” he said, “His lordship is terribly angry with you—your -stubbornness and insolence are past endurance. He intends to kill you -with his own hands. Prepare yourself for instant death!” - -“I am quite prepared, sir.” - -“Your father is my old friend,” went on the man pitifully. “If you have -any farewell message for him I will undertake to deliver it.” - -“Thank you, sir; but I have no words to send to my father. It is the -duty of a samurai to sacrifice his life for the sake of loyalty. After -my death my motive for refusing to confess what my lord the Shogun -desires will become clear. Tell my father only that I met my doom -fearlessly by my lord’s own sword. My one sorrow is that my mother -is now ill and this news may lead to her death also. That is my only -regret.” - -“What a truly heroic resolve!” cried Tango, unable to restrain his -tears. “Your father may well be proud of you, boy, when I tell him how -you met death.” - -Taking Chōshirō by the hand Tango conducted him into the presence of -the Shogun and his lady. The stern noble stood up on their entrance -and laying his hand on the hilt of his sword motioned to them to -approach nearer. The brave boy kneeling down pushed the stray locks -from his neck, and with clasped hands and closed eyes calmly awaited -decapitation. The Shogun’s manly compassion was not proof against -this pathetic sight. Throwing his sword away, “Chōshirō, you are -forgiven!” he cried. “I recognize your supreme fidelity to your young -master—faithful unto death! Tango, I foretell that when Takechiyo -succeeds me as Shogun, no one will be able to assist him in the task of -ruling this people so well as this courageous young samurai. Chōshirō, -you are pardoned!” - -[1] Boiled rice pressed into balls sometimes taken for a simple lunch. - - - - - KATSUNO’S REVENGE - - - I. - -A man and a woman were whispering to each other by a shaded lamp in -a quiet detached room which was partly hedged by _unohana_ whose -snow-white flowers gleamed in the moonlight. Only the frogs croaking in -the neighbouring paddy-field broke the stillness of the night. - -The man was Sakuma Shichiroyemon, a councillor of Oda Nobuyuki, -the lord of the castle of Iwakura, in the province, of Owari. About -fifty-two years old, he was a fierce-looking man with powerful muscles -and bristling gray whiskers. Haughty, quick-tempered and very jealous -he tyrannized over his subordinates and was accordingly an object of -hatred throughout the clan. The person with whom he was now talking -was a woman close upon his own age—the supervisor of Lord Oda’s -maids-of-honour, by name O-Tora-no-Kata. Being a cross, cunning, -and avaricious hag, she was regarded by the maids with terror and -detestation. “Birds of a feather flock together.” She had wormed -her way into the good graces of Shichiroyemon in order to make her -position secure; whilst the latter, on his part, had set her to spy on -the actions of his lord, as well as of his colleagues and inferiors. - -“What’s that, Madame Tora?” asked Shichiroyemon, his face reddening -with anger. “Do you mean to tell me that our lord is going to set that -green boy of a Hachiya over me as Prime Councillor?” - -“I repeat what I hear;—all the maids say so....” - -“Pshaw! How I do hate that Hachiya—that peasant’s son born in -obscurity. Who knows where he comes from? A pale, smooth-faced womanish -sprig! How glibly he flatters our lord! He has never been in battle; -what use is such a bookworm in these warlike days? And yet this -inexperienced stripling is going to be appointed Prime Councillor! -Humph, what infatuation! Ha, ha, ha!” - -“It will not boil yet. The fire is not strong enough.” - -“Eh! The fire?” - -“Ha, ha!” said O-Tora with a disagreeable smile. “Here I have good fuel -to make you burn!” - -“Don’t try to annoy me like that,” said he impatiently. “Tell me -quickly.” - -“It is the secret of secrets. I can’t readily ... w-e-l-l ... sell -it.” She spoke slowly, with an emphasis on the word ‘sell.’ - -“How grasping you are! Well, then, I will buy your secret with this.” -So saying, Shichiroyemon took a packet of money out of his bosom and -threw it down on the mat. The crone picked it up in silence, a cunning -smile playing about her lips. - -“Mr. Sakuma, you must not be off your guard.” - -“What do you mean?” - -“Well, K...; you must give her up.” - -“What! Give up Katsuno?” he exclaimed, startled. “Why? Tell me quick!” - -“Don’t be surprised, sir. It is our lord’s pleasure to give her to -Hachiya in marriage.” - -Katsuno was a maid-of-honour of Oda Nobuyuki with whom she was a great -favourite. A young damsel of nineteen springs, she was the incarnation -of beauty, grace and sweetness of disposition, combined with refinement -and dignity. In spite of his years Shichiroyemon was madly in love with -the fair maiden; but though he had courted her in every way through -O-Tora, she had shown no inclination to respond to his advances. - -“Has Hachiya formed a liaison with Katsuno?” asked Shichiroyemon -anxiously. - -“Not that; you know they are both such honest blockheads; they are -too stupid for that. Even if they had the inclination, it would be -impossible for them to elude my vigilant eye—not even a devil could do -it!” - -“Is it then our lord’s order?” - -“That is it. To-day our lady said to me, ‘It is not good for Hachiya to -be alone any longer; Katsuno is a beautiful and excellent-minded maid, -I will give her in marriage to Hachiya before long in reward for her -faithful service!’ Yes, surely, our lady told me so.” - -“Is that indeed so?” said Shichiroyemon, his brow darkening, and his -eyes glaring with the intensity of his jealousy. “That green peasant’s -son of a Hachiya! It would be infamous to put him over a man of my -ability and experience, it would be an additional wrong to give Katsuno -to him in marriage. What an insult! What mortification to one of my -years! I cannot stand it! I shall never rest till I have taken some -steps against this Hachiya—my mortal enemy! I will have my revenge! He -does not provoke me with impunity!” He spoke so fiercely and the look -on his face was so diabolical that the old woman was frightened. - -“Your anger is quite natural, sir; but you know ‘Anger leads to loss.’ -You must think more calmly about this matter.” - -“Have you anything to propose?” - -“Well, ... of course, in the first place Hachiya must be assassinated, -and then we must manage to get Katsuno out of the hands of our lord on -some pretext or other;—I will undertake _that_.” - -“And I will settle the other business! But, be careful, Madame Tora!” - -Here a puff of cool wind swept through the room and blowing out the -light of the lamp put an end to their conference for that time. - - - II. - -It was a fine afternoon in autumn; in the gardens of the castle of -Iwakura, the glowing maple leaves and vari-coloured chrysanthemums were -in the height of their beauty. - -To-day being the anniversary of the death of Nobuyuki’s father, all -the inmates of the castle had been busy since the early morning with -religious services, and a visit to the deceased’s grave; to-night a -banquet was to be given to all the samurai. - -It was now about four o’clock, and several maids-of-honour who had -retired to a private chamber to enjoy an interval of rest were talking -volubly. - -“What chatterboxes you are, maids! You prattle like sparrows.” This -from O-Tora who entering at this moment made the sneering remark -that effectually put a stop to the gay talk. As she seated herself, -one of the girls, a saucy young thing, ventured to say with a demure -smile. “But, Madame, women are chatterboxes by nature, aren’t they? -‘Nightingales visit plum-blossoms’ and ‘Sparrows and tigers visit -bamboo groves’; so we chattered like sparrows hoping Madame Tora -(tiger) might be induced to come to us.” - -At this repartee the rest of the maids burst into peals of laughter -and even the cross-grained duenna could not refrain from a sour smile. - -“Your mention of sparrows reminds me of Takané (the name of a -white-eye)” said she. “It seems the bird has not uttered a note all -day. Has it been fed?” - -The girls started guiltily, for so busy had they been all day they -had quite forgotten to attend to the bird, a great pet with their lord -who had received it, together with other gifts, from the Shogun in -recognition of his military services. Nobuyuki dearly loved the -bird for the sake of its song, in addition to which he prized it on -account of its donor. - -O-Tora, observing the consternation of the maids, revenged herself on -them by saying spitefully:— - -“You had better have kept your idle chattering till you had fulfilled -all your duties, you good-for-nothing girls.” - -“It is a shame to have forgotten all about the poor little bird!” said -Katsuno, who was with her companions. - -“Poor thing, how hungry it must be! I will go at once and give it some -food.” - -Stepping down into the garden, she went to an old plum-tree, and -stretching up her arms took the beautifully ornamented cage of the bird -off the branch on which it hung. As she did so the hook came off and -the cage fell to the ground, with the result that the door came open -and the little prisoner with a glad twitter escaped. With a cry of -dismay the girl ran after it, but too late; the bird had already made -its way through the trees and was now flying far away across the blue -sky rejoicing in its freedom. - -“What have you done, Katsuno?” cried O-Tora, from the verandah. -Inwardly glad of this golden opportunity to carry out her dark -scheme of getting Katsuno into disfavour, she yet cunningly concealed -her delight under cover of fear and consternation. “Alas! You have let -Takané fly away. Dear, dear, what carelessness! How could you do it!” - -Katsuno, gazing up at the fast disappearing bird, seemed half -stupefied. At O-Tora’s words she came to herself, and then overwhelmed -with thought of the consequences staggered a little and fell wailing -to the ground. Her young companions standing on the verandah uttered -exclamations of amazement, but none of them came to her aid, or -attempted to console her. “What will you do, Katsuno?” continued the -old vixen, who had by this time come down to where the unhappy girl -lay, and seized her by the neck of her garment. “You know Takané is not -a common bird, but a treasured present from His Highness the Shogun. -Do you realize what you have done in letting it escape? Can you atone -for your fault simply by a few tears? What can you do to repair the -injury you have done to me, for it is I who shall be blamed,—I shall be -considered responsible for this misfortune! Come, get up, girl, what -have you to say?” - -“Katsuno, prepare for death!” A loud and angry voice caused them -all to start. Informed of what had occurred the hot-tempered Nobuyuki -had rushed to the scene, and now with a drawn sword stood over the -prostrate girl in a passion of ungovernable rage. - -At this critical moment another voice was heard. - -“My lord, my lord, wait!” It was the new Prime Councillor, Tsuda -Hachiya, who thus ventured to interpose. “Calm yourself, my lord, I -beg you. Do you forget the day? Is it not the holy anniversary of the -demise of your revered father? Can you sully this solemn occasion with -a bloody deed committed in the heat of anger? Restrain yourself and -leave this matter to my discretion.” - -Nobuyuki’s rage subsided as quickly as it had risen, and his better -reason prevailed. At the remonstrance of his favourite he sheathed his -sword and retired to the verandah. - -By this time most of the retainers had arrived at the castle for the -evening’s banquet, and hearing of the incident hastened to the scene. -Shichiroyemon was among them and under cover of the confusion whispered -something to his accomplice,—then coming forward “How about Katsuno’s -chastisement, my lord?” he said. “You act wisely in not inflicting -death with your own honourable hands, but as an apology to His -Highness the Shogun, and as an example to the clan it is necessary—it -is imperative that she should receive condign punishment.” - -“W-e-l-l—” Nobuyuki hesitated; then turning to Hachiya, “What is your -opinion, Hachiya? Shall I do as Shichiroyemon says?” - -“No, my lord. History tells that long, long ago, in the reign of the -Emperor Takakura, one cold frosty morning, some thoughtless gardeners -cut off a few branches of a beautiful maple-tree of which the young -Emperor was very fond, and burned them to warm their _saké_. Fujiwara -Nobunari, an official in charge of the tree, greatly shocked at this, -bound the offenders hand and foot and reported the matter to the -Emperor. The benevolent monarch, however, was not enraged at all, but -said calmly, “A Chinese poet sings:— - - ‘In woods we gathered maple-leaves[2] - ‘And burned them to warm _saké._’ - -I wonder how these humble gardeners have learned to have such a refined -taste? What a poetic idea!” Thus the Emperor acquitted the careless -gardeners. This is one reason why the Emperor Takakura is revered -as a great sovereign even now after the lapse of so many centuries. So -I hope and pray that my lord who is as large-hearted as the Emperor, -will be lenient with a young girl who through no fault of her own has -been so unfortunate as to cause this accident.” - -“Enough, Mr. Tsuda!” broke in Shichiroyemon. “You are doubtless a great -scholar, and eloquent, but the slack measure you suggest would be a -bad precedent. You are always tender and sympathetic with women, but -in dealing with a matter such as this we must make no distinction of -sex. As well might you pardon the offender who sets fire to the castle -and reduces it to ashes, just because she is a woman and it was ‘by -mistake’! Is that justice?” - -“Your argument is absurd,” replied the younger man contemptuously. -“You speak as if severity were a good principle in government. If so, -why did Kings Chow and Chieh of ancient China, and the Tairas and -the Ashikagas in our own country come to such speedy ruin? Recollect -that to-day is the sacred anniversary of the demise of the father of -our lord, and therefore it might well have been our lord’s purpose to -have set the white-eye free, himself, for the peace of the revered -spirit.[3] The fault unintentionally committed by Katsuno has thus led -to the humane act of setting a poor caged bird at liberty. I have -somewhere read these lines:— - - ‘Though one loves the sweet songs of a caged bird, - ‘Who knows the sadness of its inner heart?’ - -In my opinion Katsuno has committed no fault in the true sense of the -word, but on the contrary, done a good action.” - -With the exception of Shichiroyemon and O-Tora, all present listened -with admiration to the eloquent pleading of Hachiya on behalf of -Katsuno. The black-hearted pair persisted in urging the girl’s -expulsion from the castle, but Nobuyuki turned a deaf ear to their -arguments, and decided to let the matter rest. Katsuno, all this time -on her knees in the garden, now almost worshipped her deliverer in the -depth of her gratitude. - - - III. - -Tsuda Hachiya was now thirty-one. He was born the son of a farmer, -but being a handsome, well educated lad, in his sixteenth year he had -been appointed to the post of page in the household of Nobuyuki who -soon began to treat him with great fondness. The young samurai devoted -his leisure hours to a further study of literature, and to the practice -of fencing; and as he speedily evinced marked administrative ability, -such as was rarely found among the intellectually ill-trained samurai -of those days, he rapidly rose in the service, until now, while still -a young man, he was both Prime Councillor and Steward, and exercised -great authority. But notwithstanding the rank and power that might well -have turned the head of one so young, he behaved modestly in public -and private, and served his lord with all faithfulness and diligence, -gaining thereby the admiration of the whole clan for his character and -virtues. - -One evening Hachiya presented himself before his lord at the latter’s -urgent summons. - -“Hachiya,” began Nobuyuki, abruptly, with a pleasant smile, “I think it -is high time for you to—, isn’t it?” - -“Excuse me, my lord, I do not understand you?” said Hachiya with a -puzzled look. - -“That important affair of yours.” - -“That important affair of mine?” echoed the young man more puzzled than -before. - -“Ha, ha! how dull-witted you are to-day! The Katsuno affair!” - -Hachiya did not speak. It was not the first time that Nobuyuki, who -was enthusiastic over the question of Hachiya’s marriage, had offered -to act as middleman between him and Katsuno. Far from objecting to -the proposed bride, Hachiya’s inclination pointed that way, but his -prudence, however, had hitherto prevailed, and he remembered the saying -‘a full moon is sure to wane.’ His appointment as Prime Councillor over -the heads of older men was already calculated to give offence; should -he marry Katsuno, the acknowledged beauty of the clan, would he not -still further give cause for jealousy and ill-feeling? Moreover, he was -not ignorant of Shichiroyemon’s mad attachment, and had no desire to -provoke his resentment; therefore, on various pretexts, he had month -after month evaded his lord’s importunity. - -“Do you again say ‘until next month’?” said Nobuyuki, half -threateningly, as the young man remained silent. “Think not to deceive -me in that way!” - -Hachiya did not answer; his head was bent in respectful attention. - -“Answer me at once! Still silent?... Tell me, do you dislike the girl?” - -“Oh, no, my lord, but I fear her refusal!” - -“Is that all! Set your mind at rest on that score; I have sounded her. -Poor girl! Since the white-eye incident her ‘sickness’ has become worse -and she has grown quite thin!” - -Observant and sympathetic, Nobuyuki had found out that Katsuno was -love-sick for Hachiya. - -“Do not tease me, my lord! I will tell you of my real reasons for this -hesitation.” - -And with this preface Hachiya gave his reasons, at each one of which -the older man gave a little nod of comprehension. - -“I admire your prudence and forethought,” he said when Hachiya ceased -speaking. “But remember you can never do anything if you think so much -of the feelings of others. As for that doting old Shichiroyemon, do -not fear him. I have set my heart on your happiness, and I never do -things by halves. It is my wish, also, to give Katsuno the desire of -her heart. But as it is so near the close of the year we will postpone -the marriage till the New Year, and then I will listen to no more -denials. Yes, yes, that is what we will do, Hachiya.” - -So saying, Nobuyuki summoned a maid and in a low voice gave an order. -Presently a bottle of _saké_ and some cups were brought in. Then the -_fusuma_ between this and the next room was gently slid open and there -appeared a beautiful young woman clad in a gay _uchikaké_ or gown, who -knelt with movements full of grace on the threshold. It was none other -than Katsuno. - -“What is your pleasure, my lord?” said she bowing reverently first to -Nobuyuki and then to Hachiya. - -“Ah, is it Katsuno? I want you to serve us with _saké_. Sit nearer to -me, Hachiya; come, let us have some _saké_.” - -“Excuse me, my lord. Something tells me I am needed at home; besides it -is getting late. With your kind permission, I will go home at once.” - -“No, no; not just yet, Hachiya. Though it is late no loved one is -waiting for your return, I imagine. Ha, ha! Come, you cannot refuse. -Katsuno, pour him out a cup of _saké_!” - -[Illustration: She filled Hachiya’s cup to the brim] - -Katsuno hesitated bashfully, but on Nobuyuki’s repeating his command, -she took the bottle, and with a hand that trembled filled Hachiya’s -cup to the brim. Their eyes met and both blushed consciously. - -“If you have drunk, let Katsuno have the cup,” said Nobuyuki. - -“I should return the cup to your lordship.” - -“No, I will have it after her. Give it to Katsuno.” - -Hachiya had no choice but to do as he was told, and accordingly offered -the cup, into which he had poured more _saké_, to the maid-of-honour, -who overcome with shyness, took and sipped it with difficulty. - -“Give it to me.” - -Nobuyuki drank off three cupfuls and then said with a sly laugh:— - -“I am mightily glad you have thus exchanged the wine-cups of betrothal! -Ha, ha! You have my hearty congratulations!” - -The young lovers prostrated themselves in acknowledgment of his favour, -but even as they did so the loud clang, clang of the alarm-bell broke -the stillness of the night and caused them all to start up to listen. - -“What can it be?” exclaimed Hachiya, opening the _shōji_ to look out. -No need to ask that question; the lurid sky, the quickly rising flames -and showers of falling sparks proclaimed all too surely a house on fire! - -“A fire, my lord! And not more than five _chō_ beyond the pine-trees on -the bank of the moat. I must go at once!” - -“No doubt as to its being a fire,” said Nobuyuki looking out also. “Is -it not in your direction?” - -“Allow me to leave your presence; I fear it is as you say!” - -“Then lose no time! I will give the necessary instructions to the -Fire-Commissioner myself.” - -With a hurried word of thanks and apology to his lord and Katsuno, -Hachiya left the apartment and ran home at the top of his speed. A -fierce wind had arisen and whistled through the branches of the tall -old pine-trees; louder and louder clanged the iron-throated bell. - -His fears were all too surely realised: he reached his home only to -find it wrapped in flames! A detached room where he had been wont to -study was already reduced to ashes and the fire had caught on to the -main building. The trees in the garden were also burning and as the -wind shook the branches they let fall a shower of sparks. A number of -samurai and firemen were doing their utmost with squirts and rakes -to get the fire under, but against the fierce flames fanned to -fury by the strong wind their efforts were of little avail. Hachiya -involuntarily heaved a deep sigh of despair, but there was no time -to delay. It was imperative that he should venture into the burning -building and save, if possible, important documents and ancestral -treasures, as well as some highly valued gifts he had received from his -lord. - -As he rushed through the front gate a dark form sprang from the shade -of a great pine-tree and plunged a sword into his side. Before Hachiya -could draw his own weapon the assassin gave him another thrust through -the heart, and the young Councillor fell lifeless to the ground. - -The charred body of the hapless samurai was found in the ashes of his -ruined home. - - - IV. - -On hearing of Hachiya’s death, Nobuyuki clenched his teeth, and Katsuno -was beside herself with grief. - -A dagger—an excellent blade by Masamuné—was found near the body. Seeing -it, Nobuyuki slapped his thigh in delighted recognition, for it was a -well-known weapon which his elder brother Nobunaga, Lord of Owari, had -given to the elder brother of Shichiroyemon, Gemba Morimasa, one -of Nobunaga’s councillors. Except Morimasa nobody could have had it -but Shichiroyemon; therefore, Nobuyuki who knew of the terms between -his two followers, had no doubt but that his favourite councillor had -fallen a victim to the jealous malignancy of the man he had superseded -both in the favour of their master, and in the affection of the girl -on whom he had set his heart. Added to this, a man who had been -arrested on suspicion on Hachiya’s premises the night of the fire, -confessed after a strict examination that it was at the instigation of -Shichiroyemon that he had set fire to the house. - -Evidence of his guilt being so strong, some sheriffs were despatched -to Shichiroyemon’s residence to arrest him; but the wily scoundrel -scenting danger had fled, and it was not till after a rigorous search -that it was found that he had taken refuge in the neighbouring province -of Mino in the castle of Inaba, belonging to Saitō Dōzō. - -O-Tora-no-Kata also disappeared about this time, and rumour had it that -she was now in the mansion of Gemba Morimasa. - - * * * * * - -It was the seventh of January, and most people were enjoying the -New Year festivities. But to Nobuyuki, the season brought no joy; he -still brooded over Hachiya’s tragic end. Buried in thought as he leant -on his arm-rest, he did not notice the entrance of Katsuno, still pale -and emaciated she knelt before him. - -“Ah, Katsuno, I am glad to see you,” he said, “I was thinking of -Hachiya, and of your great grief in losing your future husband just -after you had exchanged the cups of betrothal. I feel for you with all -my heart!” - -“Thank you, my lord,” she replied sadly. “You are too good to me!” - -“It is natural you should grieve,” went on Nobuyuki, after a pause. -“But mere sorrowing does no good to any one. Far wiser would it be to -devise some way to kill the base assassin and avenge Hachiya with all -speed.” - -“You are right, my lord,—I think my husband in Hades would be pleased -to know that your lordship is willing to do so much for his honour. May -I ask what is the result of your negotiations with His Excellency, the -Lord of Owari?” - -Nobuyuki’s brother, the Lord of Owari, being the son-in-law of Saitō -Dōzō, Nobuyuki had requested his brother to arrange for the delivery of -Shichiroyemon, but Dōzō had ill-naturedly refused. - -“This puts difficulties in our way,” concluded the old lord -disconsolately. - -“I have a favour to ask of your lordship; may I venture to speak?” - -“By all means.” - -“Permit me to go to Inaba, my lord.” - -“To Inaba! You want to go to the castle of that Saitō Dōzō?” - -“Yes, my lord. I wish to enter the castle in disguise, and avenge the -death of Hachiya on his murderer!” - -“Not to be thought of, Katsuno!” Nobuyuki could not keep back a smile, -though he saw the girl was in deadly earnest. “A young woman, and -single handed!—absurd!” - -“Not so, my lord, believe me!” Katsuno’s eyes gleamed, and her breath -came quick and fast. “I have thought it all out. I beseech you to let -me go!” - -Nobuyuki argued with her in vain. Her mind was made up, and nothing -could shake her resolution. Therefore, he at length reluctantly gave -her the desired permission, at the same time handing her the Masamuné -dagger, to which reference has been made before, and saying:— - -“This is the dagger with which our Hachiya was stabbed; thrust it up to -the hilt in the throat of his murderer, and avenge his death!” - -“I will, or die in the attempt! My lord, I thank you, farewell, -fare....” - -A burst of tears choked her utterance; she hastened from the room. - -“May you have all success,” said Nobuyuki, as she disappeared, and then -he returned to his thoughts. - - - V. - -In the guise of a merchant’s wife, and assuming a false name, Katsuno -journeyed to the castle-town of Inaba, and taking up her abode at the -house of an uncle who was a farmer living in a village close to the -town, watched for an opportunity to achieve her purpose. - -One day, Yoshitatsu, the son of Saitō Dōzō, returning from hunting, -stopped to rest at the farm-house. Katsuno waited upon him and served -him with tea. Her beauty and grace of manner attracted the attention -of the young nobleman. In reply to his inquiries Katsuno’s uncle told -him that she had recently lost her husband, a merchant, and that she -was anxious to enter the service of a daimio’s lady. Yoshitatsu -undertook to engage her as maid-of-honour to his mother, and his offer -was immediately accepted with joy. She was soon an inmate of the -castle, where her faithful service pleased her mistress so much that -she speedily became a great favourite. - - * * * * * - -A warm spring day, with the delicate blossoms of the cherry-trees -filling all the land with their beauty, and the faint sweetness of -their perfume. Since dawn a large number of workmen had been busily at -work sweeping the courtyard of the castle, and spreading clean sand -over it. Some important function must be on hand. Katsuno wondered what -it was. - -“Excuse my curiosity, my lady,” she said as she served her mistress -with a cup of tea, “but for what are those men making such great -preparations? Is anything going to take place?” - -“Don’t you know? To-morrow there will be matches of mounted archery.” - -“Mounted archery, my lady? What is that?” asked Katsuno, feigning -ignorance. - -“All the samurai who are skilled in archery will practise the art -on horseback.” - -“Are many coming, my lady?” asked Katsuno, her heart beating high with -the hope that at last she might meet her enemy. - -“About a hundred, I believe, to take part in the competition, and of -course, all the samurai of our clan with their families will be present -to look on.” - -“Who are the archers?” - -“Why do you ask?” - -Katsuno was embarrassed for a moment, but quickly regaining her -presence of mind, she replied:— - -“For no special reason, my lady; but my father, though only a farmer, -was very fond of archery, and so, from a child, I have been interested -in the sport.” - -“Ah, I see. Well, they brought me a programme of the day’s events -this morning; here it is; you can see the names of the archers for -yourself.” The lady handed Katsuno a sheet of soft, thick paper covered -with bold, black characters. With an eagerness she strove to conceal, -she ran her eyes down the lines, till near the middle of the page she -found the name “Sakuma Shichiroyemon” At last! This was the time for -which she had waited and planned. - -“All the archers seem to be good samurai. What a splendid sight -they will present! How I should like to see the sport, even from a -distance.” - -“There should be no difficulty about that. You have my permission.” - -“My lady, I am deeply grateful.” She could say no more, but such was -the state of her feelings that it was with difficulty she performed her -usual duties that day, nor could she sleep at all at night. - - - VI. - -The following day the weather continued to be all that could be -desired. The wide courtyard was duly prepared. The centre was enclosed -for the list in the shape of an oblong square, and temporary stands had -been erected all round it to accommodate the spectators; these were -covered with gay carpets and soft cushions which gave colour to the -scene. A dais in the very centre of the gallery on the eastern side -of the lists and at a convenient distance from the target, was richly -decorated with hangings of purple and white silk, which fluttered -gently in the breeze. This was the place of honour for Lord Saitō and -his family. - -From early in the morning, samurai after samurai began to arrive at -the castle, and soon every stand was crowded. The lord of the -castle accompanied by his family and attended by a numerous retinue -of councillors, pages, and maids-of-honour, presently appeared, and -in great state seated himself in the place prepared for him. Katsuno, -gaily dressed, her face powdered and painted in the usual fashion, and -the Masamuné dagger concealed in the bosom of her garments, was among -this company, and avoiding the attention of the others, eagerly awaited -her opportunity. - -“To-day, or never,” she thought to herself. “If I let such a golden -opportunity pass, I shall never get another! Dearest Hachiya, look at -me from Hades! I will avenge your death before the sun sets!” Then -clasping her hands she murmured a prayer, “Oh, Hachiman, God of War, -favour me with success!” - -When those about to take part in the competitions were ready, the -umpire, the herald, the signalman and the registrar, all betook -themselves to their respective stations; a large drum being then loudly -beaten to announce that the tournament was about to begin. - -One after another, the archers clad in _kosodé_ (silk underclothes), -_hitataré_ (court robes), and _mukabaki_ (breeches), came forth on -horseback into the lists and rode to and fro, till coming to the -appointed spot from which to aim, they shot their arrows at the -mark. The judge, or umpire, would then after a careful examination -give his decision, the herald would loudly proclaim the name of the -archer and his achievement, while the registrar would make a written -record. Then it was the part of the signalman to announce the event -to the spectators, who raised such shouts of applause that one might -almost fancy the petals of the cherry-blossoms fell in showers from the -vibration in the air. - -So archer after archer exhibited his skill, until now it was the turn -of “No. 53” Sakuma Shichiroyemon. Katsuno, who had been impatiently -awaiting her chance, and whose nerves were strained to the utmost, -involuntarily grasped the dagger in her bosom. - -Shichiroyemon rode out slowly, but as soon as he had bowed low to his -lord, put spurs to his horse and dashed swiftly forward. - -In her nervous excitement Katsuno pushed forward and straightening -herself assumed the attitude necessary to cut at her enemy as he -came up to the dais. In so doing she touched her mistress’s shoulder -and shrank back inadvertently, but the next moment she again pressed -forward and stood ready. - -Shichiroyemon galloped up with the speed of lightning, the horse’s mane -touched the railing of the gallery, but before the girl could act was -far out of her reach. - -With an exclamation of dismay she stood looking after him. - -“What is the matter with you, Katsuno?” said Lady Saitō, displeased at -the want of manners in her favourite maid. - -Recalled to herself the girl forced a laugh but replied readily enough:— - -“Forgive my rudeness, my lady! In my admiration of the heroic sport I -forgot myself.” - -“You are indeed fond of archery!” - -“Yes, my lady, there is nothing I like so well.” - -“A strange taste for a girl!” said her mistress looking curiously at -her. “But the excitement is too much for you; you are pale and your -eyes are bloodshot. Have you a headache?” - -“No, your ladyship, but I did not sleep last night.” - -“Are you not well?” - -“I am quite well; it was the thought of to-day’s pleasure that kept me -awake.” - -“What a passionate lover of archery!” said the lady laughing, and -Katsuno flushed at her mocking tone. - -The performance of the various numbers on the programme required many -of the archers to appear several times in the lists, Shichiroyemon -among them. Every time he rode forth Katsuno eagerly watched for her -chance, but to her intense mortification it nearly always happened that -his horse was on the opposite side of the lists; and the few occasions -on which he approached close enough to where she waited, he dashed -past so swiftly she was unable to do anything. She wondered if her -enemy had recognised her and was on his guard. She suffered an agony of -impatience and fear, and almost gave up in despair. - -The programme had been duly gone through, and there now remained only -the final ceremony of _nanori_ or “declaring of names.” How would this -be performed? she wondered. She feared it would not bring Shichiroyemon -within her reach. Should she rush desperately into the lists and -kill him there in the midst of his compeers? No, that would be too -hazardous; should she fail her chance would be gone for ever. On the -other hand if she let slip this opportunity was it likely she would -ever get another? And she must decide quickly. - -While Katsuno agonized thus, the ceremony had commenced. Each archer in -his turn rode up to the dais, bowed reverentially to his liege lord, -declared his name, and slowly withdrew. Quickly making up her mind she -braced herself for action. - -The day had advanced and it was now the middle of the afternoon. The -cherry-blossoms hung still in the bright sunshine, for the air had not -movement enough to stir even their delicate petals. A langour seemed -to have fallen on all and even the spectators showed signs of fatigue. -Only Katsuno was keenly on the alert! - -“No. 53!” At the call Shichiroyemon leapt on his horse, pausing a -moment to arrange the harness. A swift glance at him as he sat in the -full blaze of the sun showed Katsuno that he was splendidly arrayed -in a white _kosodé_, covered with a design of nightingales perched -on plum-trees. With bow and arrows in his hand, and mounted on a -snow-white steed he made a gallant show, his bronze complexion and -bushy whiskers adding to his grim and warlike appearance. Katsuno -gnashed her teeth. - -After riding three times round the lists Shichiroyemon suddenly -tightened the reins and caused his horse to stop before the dais. Then -slowly riding up to the foot of the gallery he bowed low, as in a -clear voice he proclaimed his name. This moment, as he was about to -withdraw, was Katsuno’s opportunity. Slipping off her upper garment she -was on the step before any one could stop her. - -“Well met, Sakuma Shichiroyemon. I am the wife of Tsuda Hachiya whom -you foully murdered! Taste the sharpness of my revenge!” - -With these words she thrust the dagger into his side with all her -strength. So sudden was the attack, and such the force lent her by -desperation, that, strong man though he was, Shichiroyemon fell forward -from his saddle to the ground. With the cry “Hachiya is avenged!” she -gave him another thrust which proved mortal. - -A white petal wafted by the breeze fluttered softly on to the -blood-stained dagger, and for a while all who witnessed the scene were -speechless with horror. - - - VII. - -Saitō Dōzō, in his admiration of Katsuno’s heroic deed, had it in his -mind to save the girl from the consequences of her rash action; but as -a samurai it did not accord with his honour to do so. This for two -reasons; one being that he had refused to deliver up Shichiroyemon when -asked to do so by Nobuyuki; and the other because it was a disgrace to -him personally that a warrior under his protection should have been -killed by a woman. Therefore, he gave orders for the close confinement -of the culprit, directing that she should be strictly watched and -guarded night and day. - -Now that she had accomplished her long-cherished desire, and had sent -word to that effect to Lord Nobuyuki, Katsuno no longer had anything to -trouble her, and awaited her sentence with a tranquil mind. - -One evening she was arranging some wisteria flowers which had been -brought to her by one of the samurai, appointed to keep guard over her, -when without any announcement Lady Saitō came into her room. - -“How tastefully you have arranged those flowers, Katsuno!” she said. -“Have you recovered yourself?” - -The girl smiled. - -“Yes, thank you, my lady; having attained my object, I have nothing -left to wish for, and am ready to meet my fate.” - -“You are a pattern of womanhood! How I admire you! It is unbearable -that one so virtuous should be subjected to the ignominy of -imprisonment for so long. I have repeatedly implored my lord for -your release, but as yet without avail.” - -“You are too good; but I have no hope of release, and I am ready to -die.” - -“Your death would serve no end, and I do not intend to let your life be -sacrificed. Listen,” she came nearer and whispered in Katsuno’s ear, “I -have managed to get your guard sent away on some pretext, and to-night, -Katsuno, you shall escape.” - -“Indeed, no, my lady; that cannot be! I am quite prepared for death. -Without Hachiya my life is nothing to me, and should his lordship -discover what you had done his wrath would be terrible,—What might he -not do to you!” - -“Have no fears on that point. It is not likely my lord will suspect -that I had any hand in your escape, but at the worst he will not kill -me. Do not think of me, but fly!” - -“But, my lady,...” - -“Oh, how obstinate you are! Why will you throw your life away? Katsuno, -as your mistress, I command you to escape this night!” - -Seeing her mistress would take no refusal the girl gave in, and they -proceeded to discuss plans. - -“And when you are safe, Katsuno, how will you spend your life?” - -“I shall become a nun and spend my life praying to Buddha for the peace -of my dead husband’s soul.” - -“An admirable resolve, but foolish! Have you no love for your -parents?—for your family and home? Ah, forgive me, your parents and -brothers are dead? I did not mean to cause you pain. But do you not see -that in that case it is impossible for you to give yourself up to a -life of devotion? Who then could carry on the family name?” - -“But, your ladyship, I became the wife of Hachiya....” - -“Yes, yes, but you were only betrothed! If you had married him really, -the case would be different,—an engagement is nothing. No other -woman would have considered it necessary to avenge his death. Your -faithfulness has been demonstrated by your heroic deed. Your devotion -will be handed down to posterity as a model for all wives to admire and -emulate, but now that is over; other duties remain.” - -“What would you have me do, my lady?” - -“You must marry.” - -“A second marriage!” - -“No, a first; as you told me yourself you were never married to -Hachiya, so who can blame you or call you a faithless wife if you -contract a marriage with another man? Even Hachiya in the spirit world -would approve of it.” - -Katsuno thought over these words. It was true according to the ideas -in which she had been brought up that it was her duty not to let her -family name die out. - -“You are right,” she said at length. “If I escape I will not refuse to -marry.” But she sighed, for her heart was with Hachiya. - -“I was sure you would be sensible. And now hear what I have to say; a -near relative of mine, Ōsuga Katsutaka, a retainer of Lord Tokugawa of -Mikawa province is looking for a wife. He is only twenty-seven, yet -he is distinguished for his scholarship, bravery and above all his -military achievements. He has a great future before him, and, what -counts with a woman before all things, he has very good looks! Will you -marry him? I have already sounded him on the subject and he is anxious -you should be his wife. Do not reject such a good offer.” - -Katsuno was silent, partly because of maiden modesty, and partly -because it was too momentous a question to be decided without due -consideration. - -“Why do not you answer? What is your objection? I assure you that Ōsuga -is every thing that can be desired; you would never regret marrying -him—he is so brave and learned! But what is most important in your -case, if you have two or three children by him you can adopt one of -them to succeed to your father’s house and carry on the family name.” - -“I am deeply grateful to you for all your kindness, my lady. I will do -as you advise; you are wiser than I, and you know what is best.” - -“Then you agree? That is right, you are a good girl, Katsuno, and -deserve to be happy, as I know you will be with Ōsuga. But it is -getting very late and it is time you went. A palanquin is ready with -ten strong footmen to convey you to the home of Ōsuga. I am sorry to -part from you but it has to be, Farewell.” - -As she spoke, Lady Saitō handed Katsuno a letter addressed to Ōsuga -Katsutaka, and a packet of money for her travelling expenses. The -girl accepted them with many thanks, and bidding farewell to her -mistress made her way to the postern gate from whence she safely -effected her escape from the castle arriving at her destination without -adventure. - - - VIII. - -Ōsuga Katsutaka married Katsuno with the hearty approval of his lord, -Tokugawa Iyeyasu, who greatly struck with admiration of the girl’s -heroic deed, readily promised to accord her his special protection. - -On hearing of this, Shichiroyemon’s brother Gemba Morimasa, a -well-known warrior, who had won for himself the nickname of Gemba the -Tiger, clenched his teeth in wrath and mortification, and going to his -lord, Nobunaga, gave him a minute account of all that had happened, -requesting him to take immediately some steps to wrest Katsuno from -Iyeyasu’s hand. - -“If this be left undone,” he continued fiercely, “my brother’s spirit -will never be at peace, nor will my outraged feelings allow me to rest. -You must see this, my lord.” - -“Calm yourself, Morimasa. You speak wildly.” - -“Who could help it, my lord! Just think of the case! Not only was -my brother murdered by a mere woman, but she, my mortal enemy, has -been taken under the protection of a powerful noble, so that I am -powerless to touch her! If I allow the matter to stand my reputation as -a warrior will be compromised. If you decline to interfere, I will go -myself and negotiate with Lord Tokugawa. At least you will allow me to -do that!” - -“If you are so set upon it, I will see what I can do,” said Nobunaga, -reluctantly; and he accordingly sent a warrior to Iyeyasu to request -the delivery of Katsuno. - -Iyeyasu readily granted the messenger an interview, but after listening -to what he had to say, replied bluntly:— - -“I am sorry, but I cannot consent. Katsuno is a heroine, and such a -woman as is rarely found in Japan. To speak frankly, Shichiroyemon did -not behave well. I understand that because Katsuno would have nothing -to say to him, and because Hachiya, to whom she was affianced, was -a favourite with his lord, Shichiroyemon, out of a mean jealousy, -unworthy of a samurai, caused his house to be set on fire and himself -to be assassinated. In my opinion,—in the opinion of all right-minded -men, he richly deserved his fate, and it was fitting he should die as -he did. What can his brother urge in extenuation of his crime? His -demand is preposterous! Think of Katsuno! For the sake of a man to -whom she was merely betrothed, she boldly avenged his death, stabbing -a strong warrior in the midst of a large concourse. What courage! It -might well put a man to shame! And this heroic woman comes to me for -protection, honouring me by her confidence! Do you imagine I will give -her up? Never! Tell your lord that Iyeyasu is not one to betray his -trust, and that he emphatically refuses to deliver up this brave woman -to her enemies.” - -There was nothing more to be said. The messenger returned to his -lord and gave the answer he had received. Nobunaga admitted its -reasonableness, and not even the hot-tempered Morimasa could deny its -truth. But being of a stubborn and revengeful nature, he brooded over -his grievance, and secretly schemed or the attainment of his purpose. - - * * * * * - -One fine autumn day Katsuno, attended by a maid, was strolling in the -grounds at the back of her residence. Sweet and beautiful she looked, -with the calm happiness of a contented young wife. To the west of the -garden were to be seen the quarters of her husband’s retainers, and -the twang of bowstrings accompanied by the whistling arrows showed -that the samurai were strenuously practising their archery. A grove -of maple-trees bounded the east, and their red leaves effectively -contrasted with the dark green of their background. In front, to -the south, the view led across paddy-fields to the tall black pines -enclosing the precincts of the village shrine. A few little birds -flitting here and there, and softly twittering, gave life to the scene. - -Standing by a pond in the garden Katsuno was idly throwing some food -to the carp which came at her call, when the little gate that gave -entrance to the grounds suddenly opened, and an elderly woman came in. - -“I am glad to see you, Miss Katsuno, nay, I should say Mrs. Ōsuga,” -said the newcomer bowing politely. - -“Madame O-Tora!” exclaimed Katsuno, in surprise, quite taken aback by -this unexpected visitation. “Is it indeed you? I am very glad to see -you, it is long since I had that pleasure. How did you find your way -here?” - -“By a mere chance,” replied the elder woman, smiling as though -overjoyed at the meeting, and speaking in propitiatory tones. “As I was -passing along this lane I happened to glance through the hedge and to -my great astonishment and joy recognised you in the garden. What a -happy home you have! I could envy you your good fortune!” - -Katsuno made no reply to her honeyed speech, but asked curtly:— - -“How do you _happen_ to be in these parts? Have you come to live here?” - -“That is a long story,” said O-Tora in an agitated manner. “I can’t -tell it in a few words. I cannot stop to tell you to-day, but I will -come again soon when I have more time to spare and tell you all about -it. Now I must say Good-bye.” - -“Where are you staying?” - -“Not far from here ... but I’ll come again soon.... Good-bye!” - -And she hurried away. Katsuno stood gazing after her retreating figure -with an expression of mingled wonder and doubt, when suddenly from the -grove of maples an arrow whizzed past and grazing her sash pierced the -_shōji_ of the samurai’s rooms. Instantly an uproar arose, but before -anything could be done another arrow whistled through the still air. -Quick to think and act, Katsuno flung herself on to the ground but her -maid, too much alarmed to move, stood upright where she was. - -By this time the young samurai had rushed forth with loud shouts. - -“The villain is hiding behind the maples,” cried Katsuno. “Do not let -him escape, quick, quick!” - -With drawn swords the party dashed into the grove, scattering the red -leaves as they pushed through. - - - IX. - -While this was occurring, Katsuno’s husband was away from home -having gone up to the castle on duty. Two ruffians were caught, but -unfortunately the samurai, being unacquainted with O-Tora’s personality -and evil intentions, did not think of trying to seize her also, though -it would have been quite easy as she ran wildly hither and thither in -her bewilderment and alarm. - -Closely questioned, the men confessed that they were spies, and had -been hired by Gemba Morimasa to assassinate Katsuno, O-Tora being decoy. - -Iyeyasu, in righteous anger, caused them to be decapitated, and their -heads were exposed in front of one of the castle gates with a notice -which ran as follows:— - -“These villains, on a strict examination, confessed that at the -instigation of Sakuma Gemba Morimasa, a high retainer of Oda -Nobunaga, they had come disguised to our castle-town with intent to -murder. However, it may be that they were common thieves and only made -up the above story to conceal their mean purposes. Therefore, we have -judged them as thieves, and expose their heads accordingly.” - -At the failure of his plans, Morimasa flew into a terrible passion; nor -could Nobunaga allow the matter to pass without notice. He despatched a -messenger to Iyeyasu with a protest, to which he received the following -reply:— - -“If an honourable samurai of Gemba Morimasa’s rank and position really -intended to take his revenge on an enemy he would have come openly and -in person. He would not intrust so important a task to low nameless -assassins! He could not so debase his honour! This was an act worthy of -a peasant, a mere tradesman, or a _rōnin_. So I concluded that those -men were common thieves and in that supposition caused that notice to -be written. Can Lord Oda say anything against it?” - -What could Nobunaga or Morimasa urge against this temperate reply? They -could not confess that the would-be murderers were indeed what they had -said, and not the thieves that Iyeyasu affected to believe them. -Thus were they again baffled. But Nobunaga was exceedingly enraged and -determined to go to war with Iyeyasu in order to wipe out his disgrace. -He diligently set about his preparations. - -It was not difficult to foretell the issue of a struggle between the -rival lords; Iyeyasu, with his small following, had no chance against -his more powerful enemy. Katsuno was in despair. It was all through -her that this danger threatened Lord Tokugawa, it was because he -had refused to give her up that all this trouble had come. She had -forfeited her life by her act of vengeance at the castle of Inaba, and -but for the mercy of Lady Saitō she would have died long before. Though -her husband loved her devotedly and she was not unhappy, still she had -no desire to live, and if she were to die, there would no longer be any -object in commencing a disastrous war. Therefore she would die. - -In the silent watches of a winter’s night when the silver moon flooded -all the land with quiet beauty, Katsuno rose from her bed and with a -dagger put an end to her life,—in the flower of her womanhood, at the -age of twenty-two! - -Katsuno left behind her four long letters addressed respectively to -Iyeyasu, her husband, Katsutaka, Lady Saitō, and her former lord, Oda -Nobuyuki, giving the reason for her rash act, and repeatedly thanking -them for all their kindness. - -[2] Lines by Hakkyoi, a great poet of ancient China. - -[3] On the occasion of Buddhist funeral ceremonies, and at religious -ceremonies held on the anniversary of a death, it is a common custom to -set at freedom caged birds for the peace of the spirit of the deceased. - - - - - A WEDDING PRESENT - - -“Let go! Let go, can’t you!” shouted a young horseman furiously, as he -raised himself up in his stirrups and angrily brandished a whip. - -It was the ninth day of April in the twelfth year of Tensho (1584). The -battle of Komaki Hill, one of the five greatest battles in Japanese -history had just been fought, and intelligence had reached the camp -that Lord Ikeda Nobuteru of the Castle of Ōgaki in the province of Mino -and his eldest son had both fallen. Wild with grief and rage, Terumasa, -the only remaining son, had leapt upon his horse and was about to -plunge headlong into the opposing lines to avenge their death when his -faithful servant, Dansuké, caught hold of his bridle and with all his -might strove to keep back the impetuous youth—he was barely twenty—from -rushing on his fate. - -But all unavailing were his remonstrances and entreaties. Quite mad for -the nonce, Terumasa was determined to carry out his intention, and he -struck Dansuké more than one stinging blow with his whip in order -to force him to let go. - -“Since you will not listen to reason, my lord, it is vain for me to -seek to detain you. Go, then, and gain renown from all who shall hear -of your gallant deed—friends and foes alike. I wish you good speed. Let -me touch up your horse a little that he may go the faster.” - -With these words the man struck the horse a sound blow on the crupper; -but cunning fellow that he was, he also gave the bridle a backward -twist before releasing it. - -Like one possessed the animal reared, and started off—not the way his -rider wished to go, but straight back in the opposite direction. - -“The devil!” cried Terumasa. - -He tried to pull up; to turn round; but in vain. The horse blessed -with more sense than his master knew which way safety lay and that way -he meant to pursue. Presently, however, his pace relaxed and Terumasa -exerting all his strength managed to arrest his flight. Patting him -gently on the neck and speaking soothing words Terumasa at length -succeeded in turning him round, and was once more on the point of -performing his rash act when once more he was stopped by Dansuké, who -running up, quite out of breath, a second time seized the bridle. - -“Would you check me again, scoundrel?” shouted Terumasa. “Let go, let -go, I say, or you’ll repent it!” - -Raising his whip again and again he brought it down each time with -telling force on the head and shoulders of the man who dared to thwart -him; but, nothing daunted, Dansuké held on like grim death though the -blood was streaming from the cuts he received. - -“My lord, my lord,” he gasped. “I entreat you to be calm, and to -consider for a few moments. Of what avail is this desperate action?” - -“What, would you have me sit down quietly under this double loss? Would -you have me show myself an undutiful son as well as a disloyal vassal? -Are the vile miscreants to slay as they please and go unpunished? -Never! Let me go, I say!” - -“No, no, my dear young master, I will not let you go.... I will not let -you go thus blindly in your rage to certain death.... What is one man -among so many? Do not think I do not understand your feelings.... I do, -I do.... But, my lord, when you perish in a foolhardy, though brave, -attempt to avenge the death of your honoured father and brother, -who, bethink you, will be left to carry on the family name?... What -will become of the noble house of Ikeda? If you follow your relatives -to Hades in this precipitate fashion, will your father be pleased? Will -he commend your devotion and say ‘My son, you have done right to follow -me!’ Will he not rather inquire ‘In whose care have you left the honour -of our family and its concerns?’ Your filial and fraternal affection is -altogether admirable, but your desire for revenge should not blind you -to the higher duty that awaits you—the duty you owe to a long line of -illustrious ancestors, the handing on of an untarnished name.... I do -not urge that you should give up all thoughts of vengeance only that -you should postpone their execution to a more propitious season. It is -unworthy of yourself to give way to this uncontrollable passion. Think -of the responsibility that rests upon you as the sole representative -of your family now that my honoured lord, your father, and his son -are no more. The time will surely come when you will thank me for the -restraint that so enrages you to-day. Oh, my dear young master, do not -be angry, but listen to the words of your devoted servant.” - -During this long speech Terumasa fumed and chafed, and with kicks and -blows sought to release himself. But Dansuké would not let go his grip -and earnestly did he pour forth his supplication, though perforce it -was delivered in rather jerky and intermittent fashion. The bloody and -tearstained countenance of poor Dansuké at last wrought on the feelings -of Terumasa and caused him to desist. Seeing no other course open to -him, he ungraciously gave in and allowed his servant to lead his horse -back to their own camp. Here much sympathy was expressed for him in -his bereavement, but it was the unanimous opinion that Dansuké had -done right, for the time for revenge was not now when he was only too -certain to lose his own life without taking toll of that of his enemies. - -Thus did the faithful Dansuké save the life of his young master and -preserve the noble family of Ikeda from extinction. - - * * * * * - -Peace reigned, for a reconciliation had been effected between the -conflicting factions of Tokugawa Iyeyasu and Hashiba Hideyoshi, to -the latter of whom the Ikedas had adhered. Hideyoshi was proclaimed -Regent. The bitter enemies of yesterday had turned, as you turn -your hand, to the warm friends of to-day. Iyeyasu, long a widower, -now sought the hand of Hideyoshi’s younger sister in marriage and was -accepted. Hideyoshi, on his side, adopted a son of Iyeyasu’s for his -own. Thus “after the rain the ground hardened,” as the old saying has -it. All was smiling peace and goodwill between the two families which, -so short a time before had been at daggers drawn, not in the figurative -sense only, but in the most deadly reality. - -Terumasa, his hot passion cooled down, began to look at things in a -new light. To what purpose had his revered father sacrificed his life? -To no purpose whatever! Not alone his father, but his elder brother -and his brother-in-law—each and all had died in an utterly meaningless -strife. No cause had been served by their death. By this time they were -doubtless gnashing their teeth in Hades at the inconsequence of it all. -He thought of his own feelings at the time and of Dansuké’s devotion -which had saved him from falling another victim to the fate which had -overtaken his relatives. - -“At the moment Dansuké said, if I recollect aright, that the time would -surely come when I should thank him for restraining my rash act. -Yes, he was right, though I little thought so then and only yielded -because I had to. That time has come, and sooner than even Dansuké -could have foreseen. He is a worthy fellow that Dansuké—I must see what -I can do for him.” - -No sooner said than done. Terumasa, in recognition of signal service -rendered in the face of danger, promoted his humble vassal to the rank -of a samurai; and Dansuké, being a man of parts, once having his feet -on the ladder speedily climbed to a high position. Ban Daizen, as he -was now called, rose step by step till at last he reached the highest -rank in the service of his lord, becoming one of the chief officials of -the Bizen clan. It is within the memory of living men that on the gate -of Ban’s house hung a pair of rusty stirrups. These stirrups are said -to have been the identical ones with which Lord Terumasa kicked the -progenitor of the house, Ban Daizen, at that time plain Dansuké, under -the circumstances above related, at the ever memorable battle of Komaki -Hill. - - * * * * * - -Though all was peaceful between the heads of the erstwhile belligerent -parties, Terumasa cherished an intense feeling of hatred towards -Tokugawa Iyeyasu, and resolved never to exchange greetings with the man -whom he deemed had indirectly been the cause of the death of his father -and elder brother. It was inevitable that the two should meet sometimes -at the palace of the Regent, and Iyeyasu was not so obtuse as not to -notice the stiff attitude of the young man, and shrewd enough to guess -what was passing in his mind. Having no ill will on his side, however, -Iyeyasu did his best to make friends. Whenever they came across each -other the older man would bow courteously and make a pleasant remark -about the weather, such as “Lord Ikeda, what a fine day it is!” or -“Lord Ikeda, the wind is very cold to-day!”. But Terumasa was blind -and deaf to all his overtures and would pass on quickly, with no -acknowledgment other than a savage stare. - -And thus eight years rolled on. - -The Regent was well aware of the estrangement between the two great -nobles, and it troubled him. He gave much thought to a plan that should -alter the relations between them. - -“It grieves me much,” he said, one day to Iyeyasu, “to see that you and -Terumasa are not on good terms. I should be glad if you were friends.” - -“Your Highness,” replied Iyeyasu, “it is what I should like myself. The -animosity is not on my side, I assure you. For what happened all those -years ago at the battle of Komaki he blames me still and ever harbours -thoughts of revenge. I know it from his manner, but what can I do?” - -“If you will allow me, my friend, I will see what I can do for you. -Let me see, you have many daughters who are, as I have been told, fair -to look upon—what do you say to giving one of them in marriage to -Terumasa. His wife died some time ago and he has one little son. Would -you have any objection to the alliance?” - -“None at all, Your Highness, but how think you? Is it likely Terumasa -will listen to such a proposal? If I have any knowledge of his -character he will but give a contemptuous refusal.” - -“Not he! Do not concern yourself on that score. I will act -circumspectly, and if I am not very much mistaken, all will fall out as -we desire. Will you entrust the matter to my discretion?” - -“Entirely, Your Highness; and if you succeed you will have my hearty -thanks.” - -So far, so good. Hideyoshi’s next step was to summon Terumasa to -his presence, and when the young man appeared, he spoke to him as -follows:— - -“My young friend, I hear that the sad death of your father and brother -at the battle of Komaki Hill is still rankling in your heart, and that -in consequence you refuse to be friends with Lord Tokugawa Iyeyasu. -The occurrence was indeed lamentable but it was the fortune of war and -to keep up a grudge so long against an innocent man is unreasonable. -The battle was between the Tokugawas and the Toyotomis, it was no -private conflict between the Tokugawas and the Ikedas. Peace has long -been restored—in these days it does not become a warrior to harbour -revengeful feelings against would-be friends—there are enough real foes -to fight. As a personal favour to me, if for no other reason, I ask you -to be reconciled to Iyeyasu and to forget the past. Or if my wish has -no weight with you, for love of the Emperor and of your native land, -throw off this evil feeling and be friends.” - -The gentle pleading of his loved chief touched Terumasa’s stubborn -heart. He could not say him nay. - -“Your Highness,” he said with his usual frank impetuosity, without -giving himself time to think. “It shall be as you desire. From this -moment I bid farewell to all ideas of revenge.” - -“Your ready compliance augurs well for your sincerity,” said the great -statesman, much pleased. “I thank you, dear Terumasa, and I am sure you -will never regret your magnanimity.” - -Some more talk passed between them on indifferent subjects, but as -Terumasa was about to retire the Regent seemed struck with a sudden -idea. - -“Terumasa,” he said, “if I mistake not you are still a widower and -your little son has no one to take care of him;—it is time you married -again.” - -“Some day, Your Highness, I may think about it, but I am in no haste.” - -“It has just come into my head that it would be good to seal your -reconciliation with Tokugawa by marrying one of his daughters. That -would proclaim the fact to every one. If you permit me I will broach -the matter to him.” - -This was going further than Terumasa altogether liked, but seeing no -help for it he gave his assent, secretly hoping the negotiations would -fail. - -“I leave everything to your discretion, Your Highness,” he said. “I am -ready to do all you wish.” - -“Then farewell for the present, Terumasa. I will let you know later on -what success I have.” - -Congratulating himself on the result of his diplomacy the Regent lost -no time in telling Iyeyasu. It was agreed between them that Lady -Toku, the second daughter should be the bride; and Terumasa offering -no objection, preparations were speedily set on foot for the formal -betrothal. - -But before this was celebrated, Terumasa presented himself before -Hideyoshi and proffered a request. - -“Since things have progressed so far by your kind mediation, Your -Highness, it is of course a matter on which there can be no two -opinions that my retainers become Tokugawa’s and Tokugawa’s retainers -become mine. In a word we are reconciled and become as one family. -But there is one little point that must be clearly understood. It is -this. It is well known that one of Lord Tokugawa’s retainers, a man -named Nagai Naokatsu killed my father at the battle of Komaki. It is -impossible that I should ever feel anything but enmity against this -fellow. As I said before, this must be clearly understood.” - -The Regent was nonplussed. It were unreasonable to condemn Terumasa’s -sentiments on this matter, and should he do so he felt convinced -that the young man would be only too glad to seize an excuse to back -out of the engagement and things would go back to their old footing. -Therefore, he saw nothing for it but to put a good face on the matter -and to answer cordially. - -“There need be no disagreement about that, my dear Terumasa. Of course -you are at perfect liberty to indulge whatever feeling you like.” - -So the daughter of Iyeyasu was betrothed to Terumasa and it was -arranged that the wedding should take place at the earliest possible -date. - - * * * * * - -Towards the end of February of the next year it became necessary that -Iyeyasu should go to his home in Yedo on some private business. The -war with Korea was at its height and the highest military authorities -had for some months been sitting in grave conclave at the Regent’s -headquarters at Nagoya in Hizen. Iyeyasu’s presence in Yedo offered -the first favourable opportunity for celebrating the nuptials of his -daughter, and it was settled that Terumasa should follow his intended -father-in-law to Yedo Castle as soon as possible. - -Iyeyasu’s thoughts as he awaited his whilom foe were not all as joyful -as befitted a wedding. Anxious furrows lined his broad brow. Hideyoshi -had told him what the bridegroom had said about the man who had slain -those so near and dear to him, and Iyeyasu dreaded what those words -might portend. The idea crossed his mind that Terumasa might even -demand the head of Naokatsu as a wedding gift from the bride’s father. - -“See that you pay his lordship the utmost respect and honour,” said he -to the four chief retainers whose place it was to receive the expected -guest. “It weighs heavy on my mind that he has an unconquerable -animosity against poor Nagai Naokatsu. Be careful never so much as to -mention his name and it may be Lord Ikeda will forget. I trust you will -not fail me in this important and delicate matter.” - -“You may rely on our caution, my lord,” answered one of those he -addressed. “We will do all in our power to interest Lord Ikeda and to -divert his thoughts from dangerous subjects. And for fear of accidents -Nagai shall be warned to keep out of the way. Do not be anxious, my -lord, we will take every precaution.” - -“That is well; I count on your fidelity.” - - * * * * * - -In due time Terumasa arrived at the castle. Iyeyasu’s four chief -retainers received him with the greatest courtesy and ushering him into -the spacious guest-room conducted him to the seat of honour. They then -retreated backwards to the other end of the apartment, whence, with -both hands on the mats, they bowed repeatedly the while they uttered -words of welcome. - -“Lord Ikeda, we rejoice to see you and congratulate you on your safe -arrival after the dangers of your long journey. We beg to offer you our -humble felicitations on the happy event that has brought you hither, -and pray that all good fortune may ever attend you and your bride.” - -“I am glad to find myself under this roof on so agreeable a mission,” -replied Terumasa genially. “There is no need for me to introduce myself -for you know who I am. It had been my design never to come to speaking -terms with Lord Tokugawa, but through the kindly mediation of His -Highness the Regent, all unfriendly thoughts have been banished and to -seal our alliance I have come here this day to wed his daughter. -Since the two families are to be thus united you are all my retainers, -and mine are all Lord Tokugawa’s. The old enmity is wiped out. We -start afresh on a new and better footing. I am delighted to make your -acquaintance.” - -“My lord, it is very condescending of you to show us so much favour. -Permit us to profit by this opportunity to recommend ourselves to your -good graces.” - -“May I enquire your names?” - -“Ah, we have been remiss! I, who speak, am Ii Naomasa, at your service.” - -“And I am Sakai Saemon, your lordship.” - -“Can it be! I know your names well and I recall seeing you both at a -distance now and again before your camp at the time of the battle of -Komaki Hill. Yes, you fought valiantly.” - -“Your lordship flatters us. We do not deserve such praise.” - -“And who may you be, my friend?” - -“My name, your lordship, is Nakatsukasa Tadakatsu, formerly Honda -Heihachiro.” - -“I know, I know! It was a misty morning when I saw you fighting -bravely on the bank of the river near Ryūsenji Temple in Kasugai. Yes, -yes, you, too, acquitted yourself splendidly.” - -“My lord, I do not merit such commendation; I am but a plain soldier.” - -“There is one more—may I ask your name also?” - -“Sakakibara Yasumasa, my lord.” - -“Do I behold the countenance of the renowned Sakakibara?—Sakakibara, -who by himself gave chase to Lord Hideyoshi when he was forced to -retreat near Hosonigaki? Your temerity on that occasion is still -vividly remembered by His Highness. He admits, of an evening when in a -talkative mood, that he was never so terrified in his life! Ha, ha, ha! -You were a bold man.” - -“The past is past and forgotten, my lord. I am now one of the most -faithful and obedient servants of His Highness. We whose trade is that -of arms, fight and make peace as the god of war casts his dice—we have -no choice in the matter.” - -“The presence of so many brave soldiers who took part in the battle of -Komaki Hill gives me much pleasure. My thoughts are carried back to the -past and—that reminds me—my brave sirs, will you answer me one -question?” - -“As many as it is your pleasure to put, your lordship.” - -“I have heard of one Nagai Naokatsu who was also at the battle; what -has become of him?” - -This was a bolt from the blue! The four veterans, brave men though they -were, looked from one to the other in consternation and dismay, quite -at a loss how to reply. That which their lord had warned them against -had befallen in the very first hour. Terumasa seeing, and it must be -confessed, enjoying, their discomfiture, pressed for his answer. - -“What has become of Nagai? Where is he now?” he repeated, impatiently. - -Another exchange of glances. Not one of them dared to take upon himself -the onus of the answer. - -“Have you suddenly lost your hearing, sirs? I ask again, What has -become of Nagai?” - -It was plain that Terumasa was losing his temper. - -“Begging your lordship’s pardon,” faltered Sakai Saemon, behind whom -the others were gradually insinuating themselves as they pushed him -forward to fulfil his usual office of spokesman, “I believe he is -in good health, and still in our lord’s service.” - -“Still in your lord’s service? I am glad of that; it removes a great -weight from my mind. It is to see this same Nagai, the murderer of -my father, that I have covered so many miles. You will oblige me by -bringing him before me without delay.” - -“My lord, I venture to suggest that you send for him after your -interview with Lord Tokugawa.” - -“That can wait. I desire to see this Nagai first. If you refuse, it -only remains for me to leave Yedo at once without paying my respects to -his lordship. I have spoken.” - -There was no doubting that Terumasa meant what he said. There was -nothing for it but to apprise their master of what had happened in -spite of their precautions, and to leave the matter to his judgment. -Sakai Saemon bowed low as he said:— - -“My lord, deign to wait a few minutes. I will oblige you with all -speed.” - -“No equivocation, mind. Beware how you play with me!” - -Sakai withdrew, his three friends having already disappeared. Terumasa -smiled grimly to himself. Nothing was lost upon him. - -The four retainers hastened to their lord’s chamber. He looked up as -they entered and asked pleasantly:— - -“Well, he has arrived?” - -“Yes, your lordship.” - -“Is all well?” - -“No, your lordship; we fear the worst has happened.” - -“How! What do you mean?” - -“He demands to be at once confronted with Nagai.” - -“Did I not warn you....” began Iyeyasu, angrily; then he checked -himself, and with arms folded and head sunk on his breast, considered -the situation. - -“You say that Lord Ikeda insists on seeing Nagai Naokatsu at once?” he -queried presently, looking up. - -“Yes, your lordship.” - -“Then by all means, let him see Nagai. Lord Ikeda is not a madman. He -has come here to marry my daughter. It is not likely, unless he is out -of his mind, that he will upset all our plans and imperil the favour of -the Regent just to satisfy an old grudge.” - -“Judging from his words and manner there is no saying what he may or -may not do, your lordship.” - -“Humph!” - -“Should he put his hand on his sword when he finds Nagai before him, -we shall not be able to stop him from wreaking his vengeance. Or -should he demand Nagai’s head for a wedding present, how can we refuse?” - -“Will he go so far as that?” - -“Nothing more likely, your lordship.” - -“I was afraid of this. Let me think what can be done.” - -Iyeyasu pondered awhile, a deep frown of perplexity and trouble on -his forehead. Then as if a solution had suddenly come to him his eyes -sparkled, and he spoke firmly. - -“Take Nagai Naokatsu into the presence of Lord Ikeda as he desires, and -if he demands his head as a wedding gift deny him resolutely. Those are -my orders.” - -“Your lordship, it is easy to obey, but if we act like that there will -be an end to the proposed marriage, and you will incur the displeasure -of His Highness, the Regent. Dare you run such a risk?” - -“Do not trouble yourselves about results, only do as I tell you. If -Lord Ikeda asks for the head of Nagai as a wedding gift, remind him -that the battle of Komaki was fought between the Tokugawas and the -Toyotomis—it was no private affair of the Ikedas. Nagai served -under his chief and killed General Ikeda Nobuteru by the fortune of -war. It was one of the chances of battle and in a fair field. Nagai did -but do his duty. If Terumasa feels any animosity for the death of his -relatives it should be directed against me, the principal, not against -Nagai who was only fighting under my orders. Therefore, tell him, he -is welcome to wreak all his vengeance upon my daughter, Lady Toku, -his bride. Let him cut her in strips if so he wills and I shall not -interfere, but let him understand explicitly that Iyeyasu will never -sacrifice his loyal retainer on any consideration whatever.” - -“My lord, your words impress us deeply. We will return and try to -adjust the matter to the satisfaction of all parties!” - -Nagai Naokatsu was sent for. The four retainers told him how things -stood, and further instructed him to be on his guard, ready to fly -should the young nobleman’s hand move towards his sword-hilt. - -Then the four went back to the guest-room where Terumasa fuming and -chafing had been waiting all this time. - -And now it was Sakakibara Yasumasa who spoke first. - -“My lord, we apologize for the long delay,” he began. - -“Have you brought Nagai—where is he?” Terumasa interrupted him. - -“Yes, my lord, he is without.” - -“That is well. Show him instantly into my presence.” - -“Yes, my lord.” - -The sliding screens were pushed aside and there, in the ante-chamber, -at a very respectful distance calculated for the convenience of making -his escape in case of need, sat Nagai, his bent head hiding his face. - -“Are you Nagai?” - -“Yes, your lordship.” - -“Come here, Nagai.” - -“My lord, I am unworthy to approach your honourable lordship.” - -“Away with excuses! Come here, I say.” - -“My lord, I cannot venture so far.” - -“You try my patience beyond its limit, sirrah!” - -Terumasa rose to his feet precipitately and crossed the intervening -space to where Nagai crouched. The sweat burst out on the four men who -were witnesses of the scene; they trembled for what would come. - -“Why do you not come when I call?” thundered Terumasa, seizing the -other’s wrists and dragging him over the floor. “I’ll teach you to obey -at once!” - -Terumasa being a big man and possessed of great strength, Nagai was as -a sparrow in the talons of a hawk and entirely at his mercy. Before he -had time to think, much less to struggle, he found himself landed by -the cushion where Terumasa had been sitting since his arrival and on -which he again seated himself. - -“Look at me, sirrah!” commanded Terumasa. - -“My lord,” said the frightened wretch, “I cannot do that.” - -“Look at me. You were not such a craven when you killed my father -Nobuteru in cold blood, on the ninth day of the fourth month in the -twelfth year of Tensho.” - -“All the more reason why I should quail now, your lordship.” - -“You are a most obstinate fellow! Why will you never do as I tell you?” - -Terumasa took hold of the man’s collar and twisted his face upwards. -Looking calmly and critically at it for a moment or two he observed -complacently. - -[Illustration: Terumasa took hold of the man’s collar and twisted his -face upwards] - -“Well, Nagai Naokatsu, it affords me much gratification to look at -you. I have been told that you have the best appearance of all -the men in the service of Lord Tokugawa. My informant was right—you -are undoubtedly a very handsome man, though at the present moment you -do not appear to the best advantage.... It is a satisfaction to know -that my father met his death at the hands of so creditable a soldier. -Without doubt he went the less reluctantly to the spirit world. So far, -well, Nagai.” - -Naokatsu gave himself up for lost. Though far from being a coward at -ordinary times, the stern aspect and speech of Terumasa whom he had so -greatly, though inadvertently, wronged, awed and intimidated him. - -The four retainers stood prepared to interfere at the last moment -should it be necessary, and they too thought Nagai’s doom was sealed. - -Still keeping his grip on the collar of his victim’s garment, Terumasa -continued to gaze at him thoughtfully. Then turning to the other men he -asked abruptly:— - -“What annual stipend does he receive at the present time?” - -“One thousand _koku_ of rice from his fief near Kawagoé.” - -“And how much did he get at the time of the battle of Komaki?” - -“Two hundred _koku_, your lordship.” - -Terumasa flung the man from him and clapped both hands on his knees. -Tears of mortification stood in his eyes. - -“Can I credit my ears? At the time of the battle his stipend was two -hundred _koku_; now after the lapse of well-nigh ten years it has risen -to only one thousand _koku_, and that derived from an out-of-the-way -hole like Kawagoé! Ah, what a worthless fellow he must be! To think -that my revered father perished by the hand of such an insignificant -creature! It is too humiliating! Father, I fear you can never forgive -yourself for allowing such a disgraceful thing to happen. You must -everlastingly be bemoaning your untoward fate in the land of the -shades. I, Terumasa, your son, sympathise with you from the bottom of -my heart!” - -His emotion was so genuine that tears trickled down his dark cheeks and -he seemed to forget that there were witnesses of his unusual weakness. -Not for long, however. Recovering his composure, he turned his eyes on -the men before him. - -“Sirs,” he said, “I told you a short time since, that my main -object in coming to Yedo was to behold the countenance of this man, -the slayer of my father and brother. I have seen him and am not -disappointed. But there is one request that I desire you will kindly -submit to my future father-in-law. It concerns this same Nagai -Naokatsu. If, according to custom, his lordship intends giving me a -wedding present....” - -Here it was at last! The four chief retainers could not restrain a -shudder, and the face of Nagai grew livid. It was Ii who first found -his voice. - -“My lord,” he stammered, “what you say is reasonable and we expected -as much. But will you not let bygones be bygones? The Komaki affair -happened nearly ten years ago and it is too late to rake it up. -Moreover, this is a day highly blessed by the god of peace—a day on -which two noble families are to be joined. Let not such an occasion -be marred by a deed of revenge and blood. I entreat your lordship to -reconsider your words and mercifully to let Nagai live!” - -“My lord, we all unite in humbly pleading for the life of this -unfortunate man!” chorused the other three, as all threw themselves -down with heads touching the mats before him. - -“What are you all talking about?” said Terumasa, unceremoniously. “Who -said I wanted the life of Nagai? Nothing is further from my thoughts. -This is what I wish you to ask Lord Tokugawa—that he will use his -influence with His Highness, the Regent, to have this fellow created -a daimio, as soon as possible, with an annual income of, say, ten -thousand _koku_.” - -Amazement was depicted on the faces of the five men—amazement and -relief. Iyeyasu, who behind a sliding screen had heard all that had -passed, now pushed it aside and ran into the room. Clasping Terumasa’s -hands in his he raised them to his head while he gave vent to his -feelings as follows:— - -“Terumasa, you have acquitted yourself nobly! I am unworthy of so -magnanimous a son-in-law. What can I say but that I will do all in my -power to further your truly chivalrous request.” - - * * * * * - -After the wedding Terumasa returned with his bride to the city of -Nagoya, where Iyeyasu soon followed him. He told the whole story to -the Regent and proffered his request. Hideyoshi slapped his knee in -approval. - -“Terumasa is a true samurai,” he said. “Rest assured his petition shall -meet with immediate attention.” - - * * * * * - -Accordingly, Nagai Naokatsu, a minor vassal, of one thousand _koku_, -from a place near Kawagoé, was at a bound promoted to the dignity of a -daimio worth ten thousand _koku_ yearly. - -So you see that Ikeda Nobuteru did not fall by the sword of a nameless -samurai! - - - - - THE HEROISM OF TORII KATSUTAKA - - -The little garrison besieged in the Castle of Nagashino, in the -province of Mikawa, was in desperate straits. - -Okudaira Sadayoshi, Governor of the castle, was away at a distance on -business of importance, and his son, Sadamasa, was left in command with -a small company of but eight hundred men. These fought with the courage -of despair; but having been taken at unawares, the castle was ill -provided with ammunition and provisions, and at the end of a fortnight -death, from starvation, or the alternative of surrender, stared them in -the face. - -It was at the close of April in the third year of Tensho (1575). Takeda -Katsuyori, Lord of Kai, knowing his feudal enemy, Sadayoshi, to be -absent, deemed it a good opportunity to attack his stronghold; and, -therefore, at the head of 28,000, suddenly swooped down and surrounded -the castle. Stationing his head-quarters on a hill opposite the main -entrance, he invested it on all sides, day and night continuing -the assaults on the walls, so that, if possible, it might fall into his -hands before either Sadayoshi’s liege lord, Tokugawa Iyeyasu, or the -latter’s powerful ally, Oda Nobunaga, could come to the rescue. - -By the end of two weeks some three hundred of the defenders had been -killed, or so seriously wounded as to be incapable of rendering further -aid; and sparing though they had been of it, food remained for barely -two days more. In this sore strait Sadamasa summoned all his men and -with calm courage and determination addressed them as follows:— - -“My men,” he said, “I cannot speak too highly of your bravery and -devotion, and I thank you. But the odds against us are too great and -the castle must be given up. Our ammunition has almost run out and we -have food for but two days more. To send for help is impossible, so -closely does the enemy watch every outlet. I will send an envoy to -Takeda requesting that you may all depart unmolested, while I myself -will commit _seppuku_. It may be in your hearts to fight to the end -rather than surrender the castle, but of what avail would it be for you -thus to sacrifice your lives. It would do no good to me nor to anyone -else. It is my wish that you should all live to join my father and -hereafter fight again for him and it may be recover the castle that we -are now forced by wholly unforeseen and unavoidable circumstances to -yield. There is nothing else to be done. Save yourselves and allow me -to commit _seppuku_.” - -Sadamasa ceased speaking, but before the sound of his grave tones had -died away, a ringing voice from the rear took up his words. - -“Commit _seppuku_, my lord! It is too soon to talk of such a desperate -measure! With your permission I will steal my way through the enemy’s -lines and summon reinforcements before it is too late.” - -“Is it Katsutaka who speaks? My brave fellow, I appreciate your desire, -but the idea is quite impracticable. How could a rat, much less a giant -like you over six feet, get through the enemy’s lines unobserved, and -supposing such a miracle accomplished, how could an army reach us -in time to avert our dying from starvation? It is not without deep -consideration that I have come to the conclusion that I have just made -known to you. Your project is impossible.” - -“Not so, my lord,” Katsutaka spoke quietly like a man who has fully -made up his mind and knows what he is about. “As you know, I am a -good swimmer, and I am strong. I will cross the river in the dark and -hurrying at utmost speed to His Excellency Lord Tokugawa lay before him -our need and request the instant despatch of troops to disperse the -besiegers. I have thought the matter over; I can do it.” - -“Bravely conceived and bravely spoken, Katsutaka! Well, desperate -diseases call for desperate remedies. You can but fail and we shall be -no worse off than before. Go, my friend, and may luck attend you!” He -paused, for emotion made it difficult to speak; then recovering his -voice, he went on:—“Should you effect your escape, as you hope, it is -necessary that we should know of it that we may hold out to the last -minute. How can you inform us of the fact!” - -“Easily, my lord. I will climb to the summit of Mt. Funatsuki and -cause smoke to rise by way of a signal. From thence to Okazaki where -Lord Tokugawa is in residence is a distance of only twenty-three miles -or so. I shall arrive at his castle by noon to-morrow, and having -delivered my message shall return without delay.” - -“And how can you tell us of the coming of reinforcements?” - -“At midnight, the day after to-morrow, I shall be back on the mountain, -and again I will signal to you by smoke. One column of smoke will -mean that His Excellency Lord Tokugawa’s troops are coming alone; two -will mean that they are accompanied by those of Lord Oda; and three -will signify that His Excellency’s army has been joined by both Lords -Oda,—an allied army of three divisions.” - -“Can you by any possibility inform us of the number of troops?” - -“Nothing easier, my lord. One shot will tell you that 10,000 troops are -on their way; two shots, 20,000; three shots 30,000. Have no fears, my -lord. I am confident that I shall succeed.” - -“Heaven aid your heroic spirit, Katsutaka! When do you propose to -start?” - -“With your permission, as soon as it is dark, my lord. There is no time -to be lost. Farewell!” - -“Stay, my friend. I will give you something before you go. See here.” - -Katsutaka approached nearer and his master gave into his hands a case -of costly incense and a valuable sword. - -“This incense is a family treasure, having been handed down from -our ancestor, Prince Tomohira, the seventh son of the Emperor Murakami; -and this sword is another heirloom—a noted blade by Sadamuné. Take -these articles as some small recognition of your bravery and loyalty.” - -With deep reverence the soldier received the precious gifts. - -“Your lordship is too good to his humble servant. I accept your -generosity with profound gratitude.” - -“Stay yet again, Katsutaka! I must pledge you in a parting cup.” - -Two cups were brought and a bottle of _saké_. Katsutaka then executed a -war-dance singing a martial strain the while. Then he departed to make -the few preparations necessary for his perilous undertaking, leaving -all those assembled, both officers and men, full of admiration for his -heroism. - -Clad in the lightest attire and with a small packet wrapped in -waterproof oil-paper in his hand, in the stillness of night, Katsutaka -stole out of a postern gate and crept to the bank of the River Iwashiro -which flowed at no great distance past the castle. The rainy season -having already set in, the stream was much swollen and the swift -current in its windings dashed furiously against either bank in -turn. Katsutaka hid himself among the tall reeds growing on the edge -and cast a searching eye in every direction. The full moon, breaking -out of a heavy bank of clouds, made the night almost as bright as day; -and to his dismay the adventurer saw that a web of large and small -ropes to which were fastened innumerable clappers was extended over the -stream, and that a close line of sentinels was on guard on the opposite -shore. When anything happened to touch the ropes the clappers would -rattle loudly “gara-gara, gara-gara,” and at each rattle the sentinels -were on the alert with torches to discover the cause of the noise. - -At this unexpected difficulty Katsutaka was greatly taken aback. -How could he swim across the river in the face of such vigilant -precautions? To add to his dismay he saw waving lazily in the gentle -night breeze an _umajirushi_ or “horse-badge” and a flag, both bearing -a coat of arms that he knew belonged to Baba Nobufusa who was esteemed -the ablest of all the veteran generals of the opposing army. - -“I am certainly under an unlucky star,” groaned Katsutaka. “With Baba -Nobufusa in charge of this side it is well-nigh impossible for me to -cross the river and effect a landing. But I will not give up -without doing my best, and it may be I shall yet find a way to elude -their vigilance.” - -He tore up a reed and was about to hurl it into the river when it -struck him that if the root had earth on it the sagacious Nobufusa -would conclude that some one was hiding in the vicinity and order -his soldiers to make a strict search. That would be fatal to his -enterprise. He, therefore, washed the mud off the reed and then threw -it into the stream. Immediately it got entangled in the network -of ropes and set all the clappers clattering loudly, “gara-gara, -gara-gara.” - -On the instant two sentinels leapt into the water and drew the reed to -land. It was taken to Nobufusa who carefully examined the root by the -light of a torch. - -“There is nothing suspicious about this reed,” said the general. “It is -of no consequence.” - -Katsutaka, peering intently from his hiding place on the other side, -felt his heart sink. - -“It is hopeless to think of crossing,” he said to himself. - -After a few moments of despondency he once more uprooted a reed and -washing off the mud as before cast it into the river. Again the -clappers were set a-going and again some of the men plunged into -the water to seek the cause. - -“Another reed, my lord,” said the man who handed it to the general. - -“The reeds are being washed off the bank by the flood,” he remarked -after examining the reed. “It is nothing; but nevertheless do not relax -your vigilance, my men.” - -Katsutaka now picked up a dead branch that had been washed ashore, and -threw it at the ropes, and after that another reed. So he went on, -throwing now one thing, now another, keeping the clappers rattling -so unintermittingly that in time Nobufusa’s soldiers ceased to take -notice of the sound and no longer dashed into the river at every fresh -repetition. Still, however, Katsutaka could not venture to enter the -river himself, for watchful eyes never left off scanning the dark -waters. Time was passing. What could he do? Katsutaka was well-nigh in -despair. To return and confess he had failed at the very outset was -insupportable—unthinkable even! - -Just then he heard the roll of a drum—the guard was being relieved. -Nobufusa’s men retired and Atobé Ōinosuké’s took their place. - -Katsutaka’s spirits rose. Ōinosuké was noted for his subtlety, he knew, -but could not be compared with Nobufusa in patient strategy. Once more -Katsutaka began throwing things into the river, but the fresh sentinels -were very much on the alert and examined everything that set the -clappers rattling. Poor Katsutaka was feeling indeed hopeless when the -heavy clouds that had been coming up unobserved, obscured the moon and -there was a low rumble of thunder in the distance. Then with appalling -swiftness the storm was upon them. The noise was terrific. The heavy -rush of the rain that came down in sheets, the roar of the wind and the -roll and rattle of thunder made a pandemonium of the erstwhile peaceful -night. - -Katsutaka had no fear of the elements; he only thought that now his -course was clear. He danced and shouted for joy, knowing that he could -be neither seen nor heard through the tumult and pitchy darkness. But -no time was to be lost. The storm might pass over as rapidly as it had -come. Stripping himself bare and tying his oil-paper package round his -neck he slipped into the turbid waters and with his dagger cut some -of the ropes that crossed it. The noisy clappers sounded faintly to -the watchers on the opposite bank, but as some men were about to -investigate their general stopped them. - -“It is unnecessary, my men,” he said. “The clappers are moved by fish -coming down the flood from the upper reaches of the river. None of the -garrison opposite would be so mad as to attempt to cross in such a -storm—it would mean instant death. Therefore be reassured.” - -“You speak truly, my lord,” assented one of the men. “It can only be -fish as your honour says.” - -Tossed and whirled about by the current, Katsutaka struggled to the -opposite bank at a point about half a mile from where he had started. -He found this part also well guarded, but hoped that under cover of the -darkness and noise he might get through. Stealthily he was making his -way when suddenly his foot slipped on the wet ground and he fell with a -slight thud. - -“Who goes there?” rang out the quick challenge in his ear. - -Startled, Katsutaka scrambled to his feet and laid his hand on the hilt -of his dagger. - -“One of the patrol, sir,” he answered readily. - -“Is that all? I pity you out in the storm. Pass on!” - -“Thank you, Captain. Good-night, sir.” - -“Good-night. Do not relax your care. The enemy may take advantage of -the storm.” - -“I will take care, sir.” - -Thus his presence of mind saved the situation when all seemed lost, and -the first and most difficult part of his enterprise was accomplished. - - * * * * * - -By the time Katsutaka had ascended to the summit of the mountain from -whence he intended to signal, the rain had almost ceased and the rumble -of thunder was barely audible in the growing distance. As he paused -to take breath the moon shone out again and bathed the landscape -in silvery loveliness. With material brought in his little package -he managed to make a small blaze, trusting it would be seen by the -watchers at the castle who would be anxious to know of his escape. Then -once more resuming his journey he hastened down the declivity and with -no further adventure arrived at the town of Okazaki about 10 o’clock -the following morning. - -As he drew near the castle he met an officer on horseback attended by -a few men on foot. To his great joy he recognized his own chief, -Lord Okudaira Sadayoshi. Placing himself in the way and bowing with due -reverence:— - -“I am Torii Katsutaka, my lord,” he said, “and I have come on an urgent -errand from your honourable son at present beleaguered in the Castle of -Nagashino.” - -“Beleaguered! My son beleaguered! What mean you by such strange -tidings? Follow me; I will return to the castle instantly.” - -Turning his horse and followed closely by his retinue and Katsutaka, -Sadayoshi cantered quickly back the way he had come and dismounting in -the courtyard demanded of the messenger a more explicit and detailed -account of how matters stood. He was indignant beyond measure at what -he heard. - -“This is wholly unexpected and unwelcome news,” he exclaimed. “My brave -fellow, your daring deed is beyond all praise. I came here two days ago -with Lord Tokugawa, on my way home intending to stay a short time. Now -I must proceed instantly. Wait here while I go to tell His Excellency; -it may be he will wish to question you himself.” - -In a very short time an attendant summoned Katsutaka to the presence of -the famous statesman. - -“Torii Katsutaka,” said he kindly, “you are a brave man, and have done -a wonderful thing. Let me know exactly how matters stand at the Castle -of Nagashino. You have my permission to speak to me directly.” - -Expressing his sense of the honour shown him, Katsutaka, in the simple -words of a plain soldier, gave a detailed account of the state of -affairs within and without the castle when he had left it. - -“If reinforcements be not instantly despatched, Your Excellency,” -he concluded, “the garrison will starve to death. I entreat, Your -Excellency, let no time be lost.” - -“Reinforcements shall be sent with all possible speed,” said Iyeyasu. -“By a happy chance both Lords Oda are now in this province with their -troops, and they can reach the besieged castle in two, or at the most, -three days. But for you we should have known nothing till too late. You -are a hero indeed. Now go and get food and rest before you start on -your return journey.” - - * * * * * - -The afternoon of the same day, Iyeyasu, at the head of 20,000 men -proceeded to the castle of Ushikubo, where he was joined by the two -Lords Oda with their combined forces of 50,000 men. Arrangements were -set on foot for an early start the next morning. - -Iyeyasu then spoke to Katsutaka again:— - -“As you see, our allied armies will be able to reach Nagashino in two -days at the latest. So rest assured that the relief will be in time. -You must be greatly fatigued. Remain here a few days till you are fully -rested.” - -“Your Excellency is too considerate, but I cannot take advantage of -your kindness. I must return at once and tell the garrison of the -success of my mission and that help is coming. Allow me to set out -without delay.” - -“By your own showing it would be quite impossible for you to re-enter -the castle in the manner in which you came out. Do not be rash, but -stay here as I advise you.” - -“A thousand pardons, Your Excellency,” said Katsutaka, respectfully, -but firmly. “At the risk of my life I undertook this errand; I will -carry it through to the end. It is an honour more than my poor life is -worth to have been granted speech with Your Excellency and favoured -with words of commendation from your august lips. Life can offer me -no higher grace. Even should I be captured by the enemy and put -to an ignominious death I should have nothing to regret. The garrison -is starving; to know that help is on the way will give them new life. -Permit me to go, Your Excellency.” - -“If you are so set upon it,” replied Lord Tokugawa, “I will say no -more. You shall take a letter from me to Sadamasa.” - -“That would be dangerous, Your Excellency. If the letter were found on -my person notice would be given of your approach and the enemy would -take steps accordingly.” - -“Right,” said Iyeyasu with a smile. “You are wise as well as brave, my -Katsutaka!” - -Then Katsutaka bade farewell to Lord Tokugawa and Lord Okudaira -Sadayoshi, and shouldering his gun set out once more on his perilous -journey. - - * * * * * - -Anxiously did the diminishing and weakened garrison at the besieged -castle wait for the signal that should tell them help was coming. -Cheered by the knowledge that Katsutaka, contrary to expectation, had -succeeded in eluding the sentinels they now had some hope that he would -have the same good fortune in his further quest. In turn watchmen -went up to the high tower and strained their eyes in the direction -whence the promised signal would appear. At midnight of the second day, -to their boundless joy, they descried a light as of a bonfire on Mt. -Funatsuki; and soon three columns of dark smoke rose in the still air -plainly seen against the sky that was lighted up by a great round moon. -Help was coming! But would it be sufficient? How many troops were on -their way? Hark! a sharp report, and then another and yet another till -seven shots gave the glad assurance of the approach of 70,000 men. The -starving men took heart again, and forgetting hunger and wounds looked -forward with joy to their speedy relief. - -But the sound of the shots reached other ears as well as those for -which it was intended. The company on guard at the foot of the mountain -heard it too, and a detachment went up to investigate. General Naito -Masatoyo himself led the little band. With no thought of danger -Katsutaka, triumphant, was gaily running down when he found himself -surrounded by the very men he wished to avoid. - -“Halt! Who are you?” demanded the general. Katsutaka’s ready wit did -not desert him. - -“Hearing shots, I have been with my comrades to find out what they -meant. We have searched everywhere but can find no one. I am coming -down to report our failure.” - -“Come nearer and let me see your face. Who is your captain?” - -“I belong to the company of riflemen under the command of Captain -Anayama.” - -“Your name!” - -“My name—my name is....” - -“Men, take this fellow prisoner.” - -More easily said than done. At the command four or five soldiers sprang -forward to obey, but Katsutaka made such a vigorous defence that they -found it impossible to hold him; and freeing himself from their grasp -he ran down towards the foot of the hill. More soldiers were coming up, -however, so he turned back, hoping under cover of some bushes to slip -past and thus escape. But he was seen and caught as in a trap. Dealing -heavy blows right and left he made a good fight, but the odds were too -overwhelming and he was at last forced to yield. His gun was taken from -him and handed to the general who found thereon an inscription in red -lacquer, “One of 3,000 guns belonging to the Castle of Okazaki.” - -The truth flashed upon him. He guessed that the man they had captured -had been to Okazaki to ask for reinforcements. Late though it was he -must be taken before the Commander-in-chief, General Katsuyori, at once. - -Bloodstained and travel-worn Katsutaka presented a pitiable sight when, -roused from his slumbers, the general surveyed him by the imperfect -light of a lantern. Yet there was something in the bearing of the man -that called forth a feeling of admiration for his courage rather than -compassion for his condition and circumstances. - -“Your name?” said the general. - -Having no motive now for concealment Katsutaka spoke out boldly. - -“Torii Katsutaka, retainer of Lord Okudaira Sadamasa, Governor of the -Castle of Nagashino.” - -“You have been to Okazaki, for reinforcements, and fired these shots -from the top of Mt. Funatsuki by a prearranged plan. Is it not so?” - -“It is so, Your Excellency.” - -“It was a hazardous errand. You must tell me later how you managed -to creep through our lines. I know how to appreciate and reward -bravery, and would like to number you among my men. If you will come -over to us I will give you a yearly stipend of 1,000 _koku_[4] of rice. -If you refuse you die.” - -Pretending to be pleased with the offer Katsutaka accepted it with many -expressions of gratitude. He was thinking that by doing this he might -put his captors off their guard and be able to escape, or in some way -render a service to those shut up in the castle. - -“You do me too much honour, Your Excellency,” he said. “I am but a -humble private but I will use all diligence to serve you faithfully.” - -“I am glad you are troubled by no foolish scruples as to desertion,” -said the general, who nevertheless was somewhat surprised at the ready -acceptance of his proposal. “There is something I desire you to do at -once to prove your sincerity.” - -In a low voice General Katsuyori gave an order to an _aide-de-camp_, -who retired and after a little time came back with a written paper -which he handed to his chief. It purported to be a letter from -Sadayoshi to his son, informing him that, on account of a sudden -outbreak of insurrection, Lord Tokugawa was unable to despatch troops -to the relief of the Castle of Nagashino and that there was nothing to -be done but to give it up on the best terms available. The letter was -a skilful imitation of Sadayoshi’s hand, for it had been written by an -officer who had once served under him and who was well acquainted with -his style. - -Showing the forgery to Katsutaka with no little pride, Katsuyori said:— - -“Now, my man, you must write another letter to confirm the intelligence -contained in this one, and both letters shall be at once shot over the -walls. What! do you hesitate?” - -Seeing no course open to him but to obey, Katsutaka did as required. -The two missives were then fastened to an arrow and shot into the -castle by a skilled archer. - -The consternation and disappointment of the expectant garrison can be -better imagined than described. All the more bitter was this news from -the hope that had preceded it. Strong men wept. - -But Okudaira Jiyemon, chief Councillor, having closely examined the -letters, burst out laughing. - -“It is hardly an occasion for mirth, Jiyemon,” said Sadamasa, much -displeased at this untimely merriment. “May I inquire the nature of the -joke?” - -“Ha, ha, ha! I beg your lordship’s pardon, but Katsuyori is a dull -fellow to imagine we could be taken in so easily. Be so good as to look -at this paper—it is not the kind manufactured in this province such as -our lord always uses, but in theirs. That one fact gives them away. -Never fear, my lord! Take my word for it, Katsutaka’s signals told the -truth. This is but a plot to deceive us into surrendering before help -comes.” - -It was now plain to all that the letters were not genuine and their -spirits again rose. Going up to the high tower Sadamasa called so that -the sentinels on the other side could hear him. - -“Soldiers of Kai, approach! I have something to say in answer to the -letters sent me but now. Request an officer to come near enough to hear -my words.” - -[Illustration: He raised his voice so that every word rang clear and -distinct] - -Nothing doubting but that Sadamasa wished to make terms of surrender, -Katsuyori himself came forth, attended by his suite. - -“Accept my best thanks for your arrow-letters,” began Sadamasa -politely. “It was good of you to pass on my father’s communication -and I am much obliged to you.” Then suddenly changing his tone, “Do you -think,” he thundered, “that such a clumsy trick could deceive us or -induce me to give up the stronghold of my ancestors? Fools! The laugh -is on our side! Ha, ha, ha!” - -“Ha, ha, ha!” roared the men behind him greatly enjoying the -discomfiture of the men below. - -Katsuyori was furious. - -“Go, Katsutaka,” he shouted. “Go to the edge of the moat and tell them -that no reinforcements are coming—that they must surrender!” - -Guarded by two men, for he had not yet been set at liberty, Katsutaka -stepped forward to the edge of the moat, and raising his voice so that -every word rang clear and distinct:— - -“Listen, my lord, and comrades,” he said. “What I tell you is the -truth. Lord Tokugawa and the two Lords Oda, with an allied army of -70,000 men are hastening to your rescue. They will be here to-morrow -without fail. The arrow-letters are utterly false. Rest assured!” - -So wholly unexpected was this bold speech that no one thought of -stopping it till the mischief was done. As a mighty cheer -went up from the besieged, however, the infuriated soldiers of the -investing army seized Katsutaka and in mad fury kicked and cuffed -him mercilessly. Then at Katsuyori’s command they crucified him just -opposite the main gate of the castle he had given his life to save. - - * * * * * - -Early the next morning the allied forces came and the Kai army being -utterly routed, the siege was raised. - -[4] A koku is about four bushels; in feudal days it was customary to -pay the samurai in rice. - - - - - THE WRESTLING OF A DAIMIO - - -In the second month of the fifteenth year of Tenshō (A.D. 1587), -Toyotomi Hideyoshi, who had brought the greater part of Japan under his -sway, crossed over to the Island of Kyūshiū with a large army, in order -to subjugate Shimazu Yoshihisa, an independent daimio governing eight -of the nine provinces that form the island. The following month Gamō -Ujisato, a renowned general in Hideyoshi’s army, advanced to the Castle -of Ganshaku in the province of Buzen, and attacked it fiercely for -three successive days. The garrison, however, offered such a stubborn -resistance that little impression was made; and it seemed unlikely -that the fortress would fall into the hands of the besiegers for some -time. Ujisato, being a man of impetuous and fiery disposition, lost all -patience, and rated his men soundly. - -“Cowards!” he shouted. “How is it you are so long in taking such an -insignificant place? Have you all turned women? I will take the castle -single-handed!” - -He dashed to the front, spurring his steed recklessly forward in the -very teeth of a volley of arrows and bullets that was directed at him. -But as he neared the ramparts a shot struck his horse in the abdomen -causing it, with a scream of agony, to rear itself up on its hind legs -and throw its rider backwards off the saddle. At the instant, the gate -of the castle was flung open, and a number of men rushed out. The -fallen warrior encompassed by the foe thought his end had come, when -a giant clad in black armour and mounted on a great chestnut horse -dashed to the rescue. With mighty strokes he cut and hewed right and -left, scattering the enemy like leaves before the wind of autumn. Some -fell dead beneath the hoofs of his horse, others took to their heels -and regained the shelter of the walls. Nishimura Gonshirō did not -trouble himself to follow the fugitives, but leaping from his charger -hastened to raise his chief. Ujisato was but slightly wounded, and with -Gonshirō’s help was able to mount the latter’s horse. - -“A thousand thanks, my gallant fellow,” he said, gathering up the -reins. “But for you I should by this time have been a dead man. I shall -never forget you have saved my life this day, and it will be my -great pleasure after the war to express my gratitude in some tangible -form.” - -The example of Gonshirō’s heroic deed seemed to put new spirit into -Ujisato’s men, and with greater determination and bravery they stormed -the castle. As a result in the course of a few hours the garrison was -obliged to surrender, and before many days had elapsed all Kyūshiū had -submitted to Hideyoshi’s rule. - -When quiet was restored Hideyoshi bestowed rewards on all the daimios -who had fought for him, and Ujisato was promoted to the Governorship -of Matsuzaka Castle in the province of Isé with an annual income of -300,000 _koku_ of rice. - -All in their turns, and according to their degrees, Ujisato rewarded -those of his vassals who had distinguished themselves under his -leadership. Some were given handsome gifts; others had their stipends -raised. Gonshirō who considered he had done a greater deed than any of -the others, seeing that he had saved his master’s life at the risk of -his own, naturally expected to receive some special favour. But greatly -to his surprise and chagrin no acknowledgment was made. What could be -the reason? - -At first he felt no little resentment and brooded over this -neglect. But after a time, being a man who cared little for gain, he -let the affair fade from his mind though he still felt sore when he -happened to think of it. - -Meanwhile the summer had come and gone, and now the 15th of September -was here. The night of all the year on which the atmosphere in Japan is -most translucent and the moon shines with the greatest brilliancy. The -night when men of a poetic turn sit up into the small hours composing -verses on the beauty of the scene, the while they sip _saké_ from -delicate porcelain cups to aid the fickle muse. On this night therefore -Ujisato gave a “moon-viewing party,” inviting a large number of his -retainers to a banquet in the main hall of his castle. - -The witching light of the full moon wrapt the stern old pile; the tiny -ripples on the moat glistened like liquid gold; the crickets shrilled -musically among the tall grasses. The sliding screens had been removed -and the calm beauty without softened and impressed the hearts of the -sturdy warriors inured to scenes so different of bloodshed and the din -of battle. Now it was that charmed by the loveliness around them many -began to compose verses in adoration of the scene, and Ujisato’s -were among the best. But after a time the _saké_ of which they partook, -not sparingly, went to their heads, and it is not surprising that some -of the would-be poets became a little elevated. The talk turned to -tales of war and one and another recounted deeds of prowess performed -by himself in the face of danger and difficulty. Nor was the host, Lord -Ujisato himself, above a little boasting in his cups and it was thus he -spoke:— - -“Listen, my friends,” he began. “Do you remember the fierce assault -of the Castle of Ganshaku at the beginning of this year? The mere -mention of it makes my blood boil! We attacked the castle three days -without a break yet could make no headway. You men lost heart. To rouse -you to a final effort I rode up to the gate alone—alone, in the face -of the enemy amid a perfect hailstorm of missiles. A bullet struck -my horse and he fell—I under him. Seizing the opportunity the enemy -poured out and surrounded me nine or ten deep—I determined to sell my -life dear” ... here the narrator paused to wipe his face from which -the perspiration was streaming from the energy with which he spoke. -Gonshirō’s heart leapt, he bent forward his face eager—now, at last his -lord was about to reward his patient waiting and acknowledge his -service before all men. - -“To sell my life dear,” repeated Ujisato with gleaming eyes. “So I -fought as I had never done before with the courage of despair. Some I -cut down, others I put to flight, finally I succeeded in remounting my -horse and rode into the castle before the enemy could close the gates -against me. Seeing my intrepid action you were inspired by my spirit, -and following closely on my heels, you all did your best and the -fortress was taken.” - -Thus did Ujisato omit all mention of Gonshirō and overlook his gallant -deed. This base ingratitude was more than the faithful retainer could -bear! - -“Gonshirō begs permission to speak a word, your lordship,” he said -brusquely. - -“By all means,” assented Ujisato. “What is it?” - -“Forgive me, your lordship, but what you said just now is hardly -correct.” - -“What! You imply I spoke an untruth!” - -“Yes, your lordship. You talk as if you had ridden into the castle -unaided. That is not true. When you fell from your horse and were -surrounded by the enemy’s men I hastened to your rescue and it was -my horse on which I assisted you to mount. By my timely help you -were enabled to ride into the castle. It is but bare justice that you -should amend your statement and acknowledge that you were saved from -certain death by Gonshirō, your lordship.” - -This bold speech caused no little stir amongst the guests. Many of -those present could bear witness to the truth of the rough soldier’s -words. They waited with bated breath for what would follow. - -Ujisato was moved to make a frank avowal. It had long been in his -mind to requite Gonshirō’s great service by a suitable reward, and it -was his intention to appoint him governor of the castle of Tagé which -was a small fortress attached to the large castle of Matsuzaka where -he himself resided. But Tagé Castle occupied a naturally strong site -and stood in relation to the greater castle in such a situation that -if a rebellion broke out in it, or if it were taken by an enemy, the -safety of Matsuzaka would be immediately threatened. It was of the -first importance, therefore, that it should be placed in the hands -of an absolutely trustworthy man, and the cautious Ujisato wished -to be quite sure of the loyalty of Gonshirō and to test him to the -utmost before putting him in a position of so much importance and -responsibility. - -“Silence, Gonshirō!” thundered the daimio, keeping up the part he had -decided to play a little longer. “How dare you say such a thing of your -lord! Liar! I have no recollection of being saved by you or by any one -else.” - -“Strange, my lord! Your words at the time were, ‘A thousand thanks, -Gonshirō! But for you I should have been dead by now. I shall never -forget what you have done and after the war I will give you a reward.’ -I want no reward—I am a plain soldier with neither wife nor child—but -it is unbearable that you should thus ignore my service. It is an -undoubted fact, my lord, that I did save your life and thus opened the -way for our troops to take the castle of Ganshaku.” - -“It is a lie! You did not save my life.” - -“It is the truth! I did save you!” - -“You are drunk; you do not know what you are saying. I repeat, you did -not save my life!” - -Gonshirō’s blood was up. He threw discretion to the winds. - -“Ingrate and liar! I did save your life!” - -“A lie!” - -Ujisato frowned darkly and seemed about to have the daring offender -punished as he deserved, but apparently changing his mind, he laughed -good-humouredly and:— - -“Look here, Gonshirō,” he said, “you insist that you saved me; I deny -it. At this rate there can be no end of the matter for each holds to -his own opinion. But to settle the question once for all let us have a -wrestling bout, you and I. If I am beaten I will admit that you saved -me as you aver, and prostrating myself before you with both hands on -the ground I will humbly beg your pardon for what I have said. That -will be as great an humiliation as removing one’s helmet on the field -of battle and surrendering to the foe. On the other hand, should you -be thrown you will be branded as a liar and ordered to commit -_seppuku._ Will you wrestle with me on those conditions?” - -The guests were amazed. One whispered to another. - -“What a proposal!” - -“Monstrously unfair!” - -“One contestant risks his life, the other a mere apology!” - -“What are the chances?” - -“Gonshirō is the better man.” - -“There I disagree with you—our lord has the greater skill. I wager his -lordship will win.” - -“Gonshirō will never accept such conditions—they are too unequal!” - -While these whispers were going round Gonshirō with head bent took an -instant’s thought. Then he looked up, stern defiance in his eye. - -“My lord,” he said, “I take up your challenge! I accept your conditions -unfair though they be. I am a samurai and as such shrink from no -danger. Strong in the truth of my cause I will wrestle with you.” - -“Good! At once. Prepare!” - -“Your lordship, I am ready.” - -[Illustration: Gonshirō threw him by a supreme effort down on to the -mats] - -A space was cleared in the centre of the hall whilst the two champions -divested themselves of all unnecessary clothing. Then the struggle -began, and being well-nigh equally matched for some time neither -gained any advantage over his opponent. At last, however, with a loud -shout Gonshirō managed to twist his body, and by a dexterous movement -raised his adversary on his shoulders, to throw him by a supreme effort -down on to the mats at a distance of eight or nine feet. Ujisato -swooned, and great was the consternation with which all rushed to his -assistance. Restoratives were administered and to the relief -of the company consciousness soon returned. The defeated combatant -was able, leaning on the arm of an attendant, to retire to his own -private apartments. The banquet, of course, was abandoned, most of the -guests returning home. Gonshirō left the castle in great dejection and -exasperation. - -“What a fool my lord has shown himself,” were his thoughts. “I could -never have conceived it of him. I will remain in his service no longer. -It is not on this place alone that the sun shines. A man of my prowess -can find a billet anywhere. Heigh ho! I will go and seek service with -some other daimio—some one I can respect more than I can my Lord -Ujisato.” - -Having made up his mind it did not take Gonshirō long to get ready. At -midnight he stole secretly away intending never to return. - -The next morning all the samurai made their appearance at the castle to -enquire after the health of their lord—all that is, but Gonshirō. The -daimio who had quite recovered himself noticed his absence and calling -Gamō Gonzaemon, one of his _karō_, or chief councillors, he asked what -had become of him. - -“I beg to inform, your lordship,” replied the _karō_, “I have just -heard a report that he has not been seen this morning and it -is surmised that he has run away in consequence of the unfortunate -occurrence of last evening.” - -“If that is true,” exclaimed Ujisato, “I am indeed sorry. I did but -dissimulate in order to test his fidelity, and if my words have lost me -a good retainer I shall be much grieved. Order a search to be made and -when he is found bring him instantly before me. Tell him I did but jest -and that he shall have a liberal reward for the service he did me. Go -at once, Gonzaemon; he cannot have gone far.” - -So the missing samurai was sought for in every likely and unlikely -place, but without success. Nothing was seen or heard of him for many a -long day. - - * * * * * - -An emaciated, shabbily dressed _rōnin_[5] carrying two swords with worn -and ragged hilt-strings and rusty scabbards, and having on his dusty -feet well-worn straw sandals, walked up, with the swagger peculiar to -his caste, to the front door of Gonzaemon’s residence. - -“Insolent fellow!” cried the attendant whose business it was to answer -the door. “This is not the place for you. If you would ask alms go -to the back.” - -“I am no beggar to crave for alms,” replied the stranger proudly. “I -am one Nishimura Gonshirō, till three years ago in the service of Lord -Ujisato. I have come to speak a word with your master. Kindly inform -his honour of my visit.” - -Gonzaemon was delighted to hear of the return of the long vainly sought -absentee. To the disgust of the usher who looked with disdain on the -dirty and travel-worn appearance of the guest, he was admitted into the -inner guest chamber. After a cordial greeting Gonzaemon asked:— - -“And how have you been getting along since you left us so suddenly, -Gonshirō?” - -“But badly, your honour. They say ‘a faithful servant never serves -two masters,’ but my case has been different. You see, I forsook my -lord and of my own will became a _rōnin_. Hoping to enter the service -of a more honourable chief I travelled from one province to another. -But I was always unfortunate. Those whom I would have chosen to serve -would have none of me—a deserter from another clan; those who would -have accepted me were not good enough to suit my taste. After long and -bitter experiences I have come to the conclusion that there is no -daimio so worthy of allegiance as my former master, Lord Gamō. So I -have come back to see if he will overlook my bad conduct in the past -and let me re-enter his ranks. Of course, I do not expect to receive -my former pay. I shall be grateful and more than satisfied if he will -let me wait upon him as a humble attendant. Will you be so kind as to -intercede for me?” - -“You have done right to come back,” answered the _karō_, kindly. “Sooth -to say, our lord has greatly regretted his foolish jest and has caused -strict search to be made to discover your whereabouts and if possible -get you to return. He will rejoice to hear my news. Wait here and -refresh yourself while I go and tell him.” - -Gonzaemon did not keep his visitor waiting long. He told Gonshirō that -his lordship was pleased that he had come back and desired to see him -at once. - -“Excuse my mentioning such a thing,” continued, the _karō_, “but your -garments are worn and travel-stained. May I not accommodate you with a -change of apparel before you present yourself before his lordship?” - -“On no account,” returned the samurai. “You are very kind, but -allow me to go as I am. My shabby condition will give my lord some idea -of the hardships I have undergone as a _rōnin_.” - -“As you please, my independent fellow!” - -The two men so different in aspect went up to the castle and waited in -an ante-room till summoned to Lord Gamō’s presence. - -“Ah, Gonshirō!” he called out genially. “I am mightily glad to see you -again. You were too hasty in running away. I was but teasing you and -you took my words in bitter earnest. I hope you will take your old -place and serve me as faithfully as before.” - -“Your kind words overwhelm me, your lordship,” said Gonshirō humbly. -“I have no words in which to express my sense of your clemency. I will -henceforth serve you to the uttermost of my ability.” - -The good-natured Gonzaemon was delighted to witness this reconciliation -between chief and vassal. The daimio ordered a feast to be prepared in -honour of the occasion, and presently, over the good cheer, they all -became very merry. It was not long before Ujisato began, as on a former -occasion, to talk rather boastfully of his exploits and his prowess on -the field. - -“Gonshirō, when I wrestled with you that time, we all remember, -I was beaten because I was half intoxicated,” he said. “Since then -my health has much improved and I am much heavier and stronger than -before. On the other hand, your many hardships have greatly reduced you -and you are a mere shadow of your former self. Should we try a bout -now, you would have no chance at all.” - -It might have been thought that learning wisdom from bitter experience -Gonshirō would have had the sense to agree with his lord’s words, and -to have said “That is very true, your lordship. It was but by a fluke -that I won before; I should have not the slightest chance now.” But -foolish fellow that he was, he forgot everything but the supposed -aspersion on his strength and skill which he could not allow to pass -unchallenged. - -“I am very thin as your lordship truly observes,” he said bluntly, -“but my strength is unabated. It is fitting that a samurai should be -stronger than his chief. My muscles were hardened in many a field of -battle and in friendly contests—they are like wires. Excuse me, but I -could not be thrown though five—nay ten—men of your weight should set -upon me at the same time.” - -“What, braggart! You still boast of your strength! Well, if you -are so sure of yourself you shall wrestle with me again.” - -“With pleasure, your lordship!” said the undaunted samurai. - -“Get ready!” - -“I am ready, your lordship.” - -With these words the two men rose and prepared for the struggle. -Gonzaemon wondered at their infatuation. For years Ujisato had -regretted the act that had cost him a faithful retainer. For years -Gonshirō had wandered a _rōnin_, homeless, and often without food. -Chief and vassal had become reconciled and all was going well, when, -for the sake of a little paltry pride, this happy state of things was -again endangered and a permanent estrangement might be the result. He -strove to remonstrate but neither would listen. All he could do was -to advise Gonshirō, by dumb signs, to allow himself to be beaten; and -Gonshirō coming too late to a better understanding of his rash conduct -answered in the same manner, “I will.” - -Satisfied that he had averted a catastrophe, the _karō_ offered to -act as umpire, standing up with an open fan in his hand. After the -preliminary moves the combatants grappled, and a hard tussle it was. -Gonshirō honestly intended to let his master have the satisfaction -of winning. “But,” thought he, “if I let myself be thrown too easily -my lord will suspect something; besides I cannot let him think me -quite such a weakling as he would make out.” Warming to the fight he -again thought, “If I allow myself to be beaten, having strength to -win, I should be a contemptible creature selling himself for the sake -of his place and pay. Nothing disgraces a samurai so much as to be a -flatterer. ‘A man lives for but one generation, but a good name lives -forever.’ A good name is above all material rewards. I cannot pretend -defeat. I must do my best at all costs and come what may, throw my lord -again.” - -Hereupon he braced his feet and bent his body, and with a loud shout -shouldered his opponent, and threw him down three mats off just as he -had done before. - -The umpire never doubting that Gonshirō had followed his counsel and -that it was he who was thrown, ran forward, exclaiming:— - -“Well done, my lord! I never saw a better throw!” - -He had no time to say more before he found out his mistake. What was -his dismay to find that Gonshirō was again the victor and that it was -his lord who had thus a second time suffered a humiliating defeat. It -was too exasperating! The same story over again. - -Now that his excitement had cooled down somewhat, Gonshirō was covered -with shame and mortification at what he had done. - -Ujisato rose without assistance and stamping his foot as though in rage -stalked off to an inner apartment. - -“Fool that I am, I have done it again!” cried Gonshirō in despair. “In -spite of your advice, in spite of my own determination, my vanity got -the upper hand and forgetting all else I committed this unpardonable -offence a second time. I will disembowel myself and I beg you to do me -the honour to witness the act!” - -So saying the unhappy man took up the short sword he had laid aside and -was on the point of plunging it into his body, when the sliding door -was hastily pushed open and Ujisato ran forward just in time to arrest -his arm. - -“Hold, hold! Gonshirō,” he cried. “You are always too impetuous. I do -not blame you for this—it is the true samurai spirit—the same spirit -that in spite of want, of hunger and rags, disdains to flatter for the -sake of gain. My brave fellow, I honour you for this! It might have -been that the hardships of the last three years had changed your -character—that you might now have been willing to sell your honour -for my favour and worldly prosperity—so I feigned drunkenness and a -boastful spirit that once more I might challenge you to fight and thus -test you to the full. You have stood the test nobly. You disdained to -flatter even at such a cost. You are indeed the pattern of all that a -samurai should be! In recognition of your signal service to me at the -storming of the Castle of Ganshaku I appoint you Governor of the Castle -of Tagé with a stipend of 10,000 _koku_. As a reward for throwing me -to-day in the face of every temptation to do otherwise I give you a -further stipend of 1,000 _koku_; and in acknowledgment of the defeat -I sustained at your hands three years ago you shall have yet another -1,000. Here is your writ of appointment.” - -At this unexpected magnanimity on the part of his lord even Gonshirō, -hardened warrior though he was, could not restrain his tears. - - * * * * * - -In the years following, Gonshirō served his chief, Lord Gamō, -faithfully and with devotion. When Ujisato was poisoned through the -wiles of an adversary his loyal vassal killed himself in order to -accompany his dearly loved master to Hades. - -[5] A samurai who had renounced his clan and become a wanderer. - - - - - THE STORY OF KIMURA SHIGENARI - - - I. - -In the eighteenth year of Keichō (A.D. 1613) Toyotomi Hideyoshi had -been dead fourteen years and his son, Hideyori, now two and twenty -should have been ruling over Japan as Regent in his stead. But his -adherents had sustained a crushing defeat at the hands of the troops -of his rival, Tokugawa Iyeyasu, at the battle of Sekigahara, and the -tide of fortune had turned from him. All the daimios had given in their -allegiance to Iyeyasu, and he was appointed Shogun by the Emperor. A -few years later he abdicated in favour of his son Hidetada, though -in reality he still steered the ship of state. On the other hand -Hideyori’s star had been fast declining. He was now merely the Lord of -Settsu and Kawachi, comparatively, small provinces, with the honorary -title of “Minister of the Right.” Nevertheless, in his stronghold, -the “impregnable” Castle of Osaka, built by his father, Hideyoshi, -at an enormous cost, there were still, it is said, some 100,000 -men, among whom were many brave and loyal officers such as Katagiri -Katsumoto, Sanada Yukimura, Suzukida Hayato and Kimura Shigenari, the -last of whom is the hero of this story. - -A few powerful daimios, remembering with gratitude the great favours -they had received from Hideyoshi, in secret still adhered to the cause -of his son and watched for an opportunity to strike for the restoration -of the Toyotomis’ power and prestige. Iyeyasu, with his accustomed keen -insight, perceived the situation and determined by one stroke to settle -matters once for all. This was the state of affairs between the two -great families, and it was felt that hostilities might break out again -at any moment. - - * * * * * - -Shigenari now twenty years of age had served Hideyori as page and -attendant since his childhood. His intelligence and loyalty, above all, -his prowess in arms and knowledge of tactics had just led Hideyori’s -Prime Councillor, Katagiri Katsumoto, to promote him over the heads -of some older men to a high rank in the army, with the title of -Nagato-no-Kami, or Lord of Nagato province, and an annual allowance of -7,000 _koku_ of rice. Mano Yorikané, one of Hideyori’s veteran -generals, admiring his courage and sterling character, gave tangible -proof of his admiration by bestowing his beautiful and accomplished -daughter, Aoyagi, on him for a wife. - -With all his manly attributes and physical strength, Shigenari was -exceptionally handsome, of a slender build, and possessed of a gentle -graceful manner. At first glance it was his beauty and refinement that -struck the beholder, not his strength and ability. For this reason -those of the warriors who had not had opportunity to witness his skill -as a soldier were inclined to regard his sudden promotion with wonder -and some suspicion, one or two even going so far as to say—behind -his back—“Shigenari is esteemed above his merits. He is effeminate -and gentle; in war he will show cowardice and fly from the sounds of -strife.” Among the backbiters was a _chabōzu_ or “tea-priest”[6] called -Yamazoé Ryōkwan, a notorious bully and drunkard. Possessing undoubted -skill in military arts and great muscular strength, he was apt to be -boastful; and the idea seized him to pick a quarrel with Shigenari -and thereby to provoke a contest between them and humiliate the courtly -hero. - -With this object Ryōkwan one day hid himself behind a screen; and as -Shigenari passed hurriedly along the matted corridor on his way to the -audience chamber, the tea-priest suddenly thrust his sheathed sword in -his way. The surprised warrior leapt lightly over it, but the skirt of -his _hakama_ touched it as he did so. Ryōkwan sprang out of ambush. - -“Kimura Dono, you go too fast!” he shouted angrily. Shigenari turned -back. - -“Excuse my rudeness,” he said courteously. - -“Your apology is too late! It came only after my demand.” - -“Forgive my double rudeness, Yamazoé, I was in such haste that I did -not consider. Excuse me!” - -“You speak like a fool! If you are late it is your own fault, and do -you think you may tread on my sword with impunity? It is true that I -am a tea-priest and your inferior in rank, yet I also am a samurai! A -samurai’s sword is his soul. You have trodden on my soul, and such an -insult is inexcusable! Out of malice you did it. I challenge you to a -duel!” - -“You speak wildly; why should I bear malice towards you, or wish -to insult you?” - -“Then why did you tread on my sword?” - -“I have already explained;—because I am in haste to present myself to -my lord.” - -“Then allow me to do to you what I choose and I will accept your -apology.” - -“By all means; do to me as you wish.” - -“I will take that!” and he struck a blow at Shigenari’s cheek with all -the force of his bare hand. - -Shigenari smiled. - -“Thank you for your chastisement!” he said, and went on his way. - -Ryōkwan now strutted arrogantly about the castle, giving every one -he met a highly-coloured account of what had occurred, and calling -Shigenari “a white-livered samurai.” Those who were jealous of -Shigenari’s promotion repeated the story in still more exaggerated -terms, in consequence of which many samurai who had no real knowledge -of the young officer’s character believed the tale and laughed to scorn -his supposed pusillanimity. Shigenari knew all about this, but did not -let it disturb him at all. - -Not so his father-in-law, Yorikané. Being fiery-tempered and extremely -punctilious concerning points of honour, he no sooner heard of the -incident than he hurried to Shigenari’s residence and demanded to see -him. - -“Welcome, father-in-law,” said the young man composedly. “Pray sit -down.” - -“Sit down? No, I cannot sit down, and never again call me ‘father.’ I -have come to tell you that you must divorce my daughter at once.” - -“This is very sudden! What reason can you give for your strange -request?” - -“Fool that I was to give my daughter to a white-livered samurai such as -you!” - -“Ha! Do you use such a term of me!” - -“You feign ignorance! Well, then, I will tell you why men call you a -coward. Listen! It is said you let your cheek be struck by that low -tea-priest a day or two ago and he still lives to tell the tale! Has it -passed from your mind so soon? Ah, I see you recollect it!” - -“Surely, I remember that Ryōkwan struck my cheek with his hand, but -what of it!” - -“What of it? What of it? Can a samurai receive a deadly insult like -that and suffer it to pass unnoticed! Coward! How came you to -permit him to do it in the first instance?” - -“Ryōkwan put his sword in my way as I was hurrying to the presence of -my lord; the hem of my _hakama_ just touched it as I passed over but -the man insisted that I had trodden on it and by design. It is evident -he meant to pick a quarrel with me in any case. I apologised, but he -refused to listen. Deeming it waste of time to argue with a bully, -to end the matter as speedily as possible, I let him strike me as he -wished. That is the whole affair.” - -“Indolent coward!” exclaimed Yorikané, more incensed now that he -heard Shigenari’s account than he had been before. “Ryōkwan is a mere -tea-priest, and you are a samurai of high rank in close attendance on -our lord. There can be no comparison as to your respective standing—you -should have killed him on the spot. Your conduct is totally -inexplicable!” - -“You are mistaken, father, when you say I should have killed him.” - -“How? There can be no two opinions on the matter. Where is your sense -of honour? I will waste no more words on you. Let my daughter return -home at once. I am ashamed to be called your father-in-law.” - -“Calm yourself, father, and hear me for but a moment. Do you imagine I -overlooked Ryōkwan’s insolent behaviour because I was afraid of him?” - -“What else can I think?” - -“Then listen. Recollect, father, that a samurai’s life is not his -own—it belongs to his liege lord. Judging from the strained relations -between our clan and the Tokugawas hostilities may break out at any -time....” here Shigenari’s brow clouded and he sighed deeply; “Yes, -war may break out at any moment now, and on the result hangs the -future destiny of our lord and his clan. It is my intention to fight -to the utmost of my strength and ability to requite if it be but the -thousandth part of the many and great favours I have received from our -gracious master. I shall sell my blood dear for his cause. And this is -the bounden duty of every one of us, high and low alike. Our lives have -never been more precious—not one can be spared except for the cause. -If I had killed Ryōkwan out of resentment for a purely personal insult -what good would it have done? Though his rank is inferior to mine, he -is still a samurai; and as a samurai his death could not have been -passed over unnoticed. Besides, Ryōkwan, though in human form, is but -an insect in my estimation. It would be derogatory for a samurai -to unsheathe his sword in anger against a mere insect! Therefore....” - -“Enough, enough!” interposed the impulsive Yorikané. “I understand; you -are right and I in my haste misjudged you entirely. Forgive me, and -forget my thoughtless words.” - -Shigenari smiled, well pleased at the reconciliation. - -“We are father and son again,” went on the older man. “I am proud of -the connection—you are a true samurai. But, tell me,” he added with a -chuckle. “You call Ryōkwan an insect; to what insect do you compare -him?” - -“To a fly,” answered Shigenari. “A fly alights on filth or on an -Emperor’s crown—it makes no distinction between good and bad, high -or low. But no one would call a fly an impolite insect. Looking on -Ryōkwan as a man one feels anger and disgust; consider he is but a fly -and it is unreasonable to have any such feelings, he is beneath them. -Therefore I take no notice of anything he can do or say.” - -“Well argued, Shigenari! What a noble-minded man you are! I admire -your wisdom and forbearance. As you say, the war cloud is fast -darkening over us and it behoves all loyal samurai to be on their -guard and not waste their energies on petty quarrels of their -own. Again I ask your pardon for misconstruing your conduct. Though -younger in years, dear Shigenari, you are older than I in judgment and -forethought. Though old I am still as rash and impetuous as a boy.” - -More than satisfied with the explanation he had received, Yorikané -returned home, and thenceforth did his best to clear his son-in-law -from the imputation of cowardice. He spoke in glowing terms of -Shigenari’s real motive in his behaviour to the tea-priest, and -told in what light he regarded him. Public opinion is ever quick -to change; and those who had scoffed were soon loud in praise of -Shigenari’s self-repression and loyalty. Ryōkwan, on the other hand, -was universally laughed at and nicknamed the “Fly-priest.” As a natural -consequence, instead of repenting of his misdeed, Ryōkwan’s envy and -hatred of his superior increased, and he was ever on the watch for a -chance to vent his spite. - -There was a large bath-room in the castle which was used in common by -all. It was usual for the samurai on night duty to bathe several at the -same time. One evening Ryōkwan happened to see Shigenari going into the -bath-room, and thinking the time to satisfy his grudge had come, he -followed him unobserved. The room was misty with the dense vapour -rising from the hot water, and four or five samurai were already in the -large square bath. Taking one of them to be Shigenari the tea-priest -approached, and mustering all his strength, struck his head a heavy -blow. The naked man sprang out of the water, and seizing Ryōkwan by -the collar, threw him on the floor where he returned the blow he had -received with compound interest. - -“I will teach you to strike a defenceless man without provocation!” he -roared. “Do you know who I am? Suzukida Hayato! Prepare for instant -death!” Then seeing who it was he was belabouring, he exclaimed in -astonishment:— - -“Why, it’s Ryōkwan, the contemptible Fly-priest! What is your object in -striking my head as you did? You will find that though you are only a -fly you cannot insult Suzukida with impunity!” - -Frightened almost out of his wits at the mention of the name Suzukida, -that of a hero renowned far and wide for his muscular strength, Ryōkwan -stammered out:— - -“I humbly beg your pardon, Suzukida Sama; it was a mistake. I should -never think of striking you, the blow was intended for Kimura -Shigenari. Spare my life, I implore you!” - -But this speech only incensed Suzukida still further. - -“What?” he cried. “Would you strike your benefactor?—the man who -generously pardoned your outrageous conduct to him? Miscreant, I will -deal a blow for my friend Kimura. Die!” - -With these words Suzukida raised his iron fist and assuredly Ryōkwan’s -last hour had come had it not been that some one caught the hand before -it fell. Mad with rage Suzukida struggled to free himself but in -vain—he was held as in a vice. Twisting round he saw to his surprise -that his captor was none other than Shigenari himself. - -“Excuse my rudeness, Suzukida Dono. Without doubt it is as the coward -says—he mistook you for me, a circumstance for which I am extremely -sorry. It is natural you should resent such an insult, but if you -strike him with your fist you will kill him on the spot. He is my -enemy; may I request you to leave his chastisement to me?” - -“Of course,” replied Suzukida with a laugh and nod of assent as -Shigenari released him. “It is for you to deal with him as you think -best. I am told the fellow grows more arrogant and behaves with -increasing rudeness to our comrades every day. I trust you will -see that he has cause to repent.” - -As soon as Suzukida had left the room, Shigenari helped Ryōkwan to get -up, and very kindly assisted him to his own chamber where he attended -to his bruises with great solicitude. When the tea-priest had recovered -somewhat, Shigenari said to him, gently remonstrant:— - -“How foolish it is of you, Ryōkwan, to be so proud of your strength -and in consequence to behave so arrogantly to your comrades and -superiors. A samurai should use his gifts for his lord’s service only. -You should exert yourself solely for the benefit of His Highness -Lord Hideyori. It is regrettable that you should waste your powers -in causeless quarrels and fights. It was fortunate for you that it -was I you insulted the other day; had it been some one else you would -undoubtedly have paid for it with your life on the instant. You have -superior muscular power and no little skill in the use of arms; now -that war is so imminent the life of every samurai is precious; that is -why I spared you—that you might live to serve in time of need. But you -did not understand my motive and sought occasion to insult me again. -How undiscriminating! If I had not interceded for you just now you -would have died a useless death at the hands of Suzukida Dono. Is not -a purposeless death like that dishonour for a samurai? If you repent -your past mistakes I will ask Suzukida Dono to overlook and pardon your -rudeness, and I am sure he will not refuse. Will you not amend your -conduct and from henceforth direct all your energies to doing your very -best for our lord and his cause, Ryōkwan?” - -To this long speech delivered with a winning earnestness that pierced -him to the heart, Ryōkwan listened with bent head and averted eyes. A -few hot tears stole down his rough cheeks; he brushed them away with -his sleeve before he answered in a broken voice. - -“Every word you have uttered has cut me to the heart, Kimura Sama,” -he said. “Your kindness overwhelms me. I am deeply ashamed of myself, -and I now see how blind I was not to perceive your noble and unselfish -motives in the way you acted. Oh, that I might commit _seppuku_ in -atonement! But to take my life would be in opposition to your kind -instruction: as you have pointed out it is the duty of us all to -live till we die in our lord’s cause.... If you can forgive me it is -my earnest desire that you will take me for your own retainer. -Unworthy though I am, I entreat you will not deny my request.” - -Touched and pleased at the success of his remonstrance, Shigenari -gladly agreed to do as Ryōkwan asked. Having obtained permission from -Lord Hideyori, they exchanged vows as master and retainer; and thus the -brawling, overbearing drunkard of a tea-priest became a changed man, -and with all the strength of a strong nature devoted himself to the -service of the master he adored. - - - II. - -The year following the events just narrated, the strained relations -between the rivals, the Toyotomis and Tokugawas snapped, and as had -been foreseen war was declared. The Ex-Shogun Iyeyasu and the reigning -Shogun Hidetada with an army of 200,000 men lay siege to the Castle of -Osaka, though as yet they did not venture on very close quarters. The -besieged troops, though outnumbered by the enemy, were well commanded -by numerous veteran generals and defended themselves with courage -and skill. In several small engagements which took place without the -castle, Iyeyasu’s men, ensnared with artfully constructed stratagems, -suffered severe defeat. Above all they sustained signal reverses -at the hands of Shigenari who manœuvered adroitly and fought bravely -with his company. - -The siege lasted several months and still the brave little garrison -held the enemy at bay. With each success their spirits rose. The shrewd -Iyeyasu, seeing the impossibility of taking the stronghold by force -and hopeless of starving it out, deemed it would be the best policy -to patch up peace in some way, and trust to the pride and arrogance -of the opposing faction to bring about their own downfall. Therefore, -most cunningly, through the Emperor’s mediation as it seemed, he -proposed, nay, almost dictated peace to Hideyori. Most of his generals, -including Sanada Yukimura, Chief of the General Staff, and Shigenari, -considering the present situation favourable to the triumph of their -side, emphatically opposed such a fatal act; but Hideyori’s infamous -and beautiful mother Madame Yodogimi who had great influence over her -son, being persuaded to that effect by her licentious and thoughtless -favourites who were weary of the confinement necessitated by the siege, -threw all the weight of her maternal authority on the acceptance of the -terms. Furthermore, the proposal coming from the highest quarter -could hardly be slighted; therefore the defenders were almost without -option compelled to agree to the humiliating terms proposed, which were -that Hideyori should destroy the outer moat of his castle—to show the -sincerity of his peaceful intentions—while Iyeyasu, in return, should -cede to him the provinces of Kii and Yamato. - -A day was appointed for the formal signing of the treaty; and Shigenari -was nominated special envoy for the occasion, with Kōri Shumenosuké for -vice-envoy. - -Iyeyasu had the entrance to his camp strictly guarded; and with a -view to displaying his authority before all the daimios assembled to -witness the ceremony, he secretly instructed his most trusted generals -to humiliate the expected envoys as much as possible. These officers -who felt much chagrin at their frequent defeats were only too glad to -have opportunity to wreck vengeance on the enemy by affronting their -representatives. - -Shigenari and Shumenosuké arrived on horseback, escorted by a little -band of some eighty men. On their appearance before the camp of Tōdō -Takatora, the sentinels one after the other called out:— - -“Halt, sirs! As His Highness’s camp is so near you must dismount.” - -Shumenosuké hurriedly pulled up and was about to get off his horse; but -his superior stopped him with a gesture, and looked haughtily at the -men in front. He cried loudly:— - -“We are Kimura Shigenari and Kōri Shumenosuké, the representatives of -Lord Toyotomi, Minister of the Right. No code of etiquette requires -anyone to dismount before his equal in rank. You are insolent! We -proceed.” - -Then Shigenari rode calmly forward followed by his suite. - -When the envoys came to General Ii’s camp his sentinels likewise -demanded that they should dismount. - -Giving the same reply as before, Shigenari, disregarding their attempts -to stop him, put spurs to his horse and rode on. - -At the camp of Lord Echigo more strenuous efforts were made to force -the strangers to proceed on foot. In great wrath Shigenari protested -against such unwarranted discourtesy. - -“What mean you by such conduct?” he cried. “Judging from our reception -I conclude it is the intention of Iyeyasu to disregard the -Imperial mandate to make peace. Well, then, it is useless to go -further. We will return at once to the castle and report to our lord -the shameful treatment we have received!” - -So saying he turned his horse and was about to go back, when Lord -Echigo’s men seeing, they had gone too far, apologised profusely and -begged him to pass on to fulfil his mission. - -At length the envoys came to the entrance of the building where they -were to meet the great Ex-Shogun. Here they dismounted and carrying -their swords were about to enter when two ushers intercepted them, -crying:— - -“Your weapons must be left without!” - -In no wise discomposed Shigenari said sternly:— - -“It is a rule with a samurai never to leave his sword behind when he -goes into an enemy’s camp, on any pretext whatever.” - -This being an indisputable fact, the ushers could say no more, but -led them armed as they were to the spacious apartment which had been -prepared for the ceremony. A large number of daimios already occupied -their places on two sides of the room. With a manner composed and -dignified, Shigenari strode into the assembly in no wit daunted by -the many hostile looks cast upon him, and took the seat to which he was -directed in the centre, facing at a short distance the dais prepared -for Iyeyasu when he should make his appearance. - -Shumenosuké closely followed the deportment of his chief, and took his -seat beside him. - -Two Masters of the Ceremonies informed them that His Highness would be -there presently. “And,” they added, “as it is disrespectful to carry -swords in his august presence you will kindly take them to the ante -chamber and leave them there.” - -“Disrespectful!” thundered Shigenari in tones that reverberated through -the hall. “To whom do you address such a word. Recollect that we are -the honourable representatives of the Minister of the Right! The -disrespect is on your side and if you repeat your insolence you will -have to answer for it!” - -And he glared so fiercely on the two officials that they withdrew in -consternation. - -In a short time Iyeyasu, accompanied by many attendants, made his -appearance and with impressive solemnity took his seat. All the daimios -bowed reverently, and awed by his majestic demeanor and the -example of others, Shumenosuké did the same. But Shigenari deigned to -give the great statesman but the slightest acknowledgment and calmly -looked him straight in the face. - -“I am glad to see you, Shigenari,” said Iyeyasu mildly. “Thank you for -coming on this important mission. Your father Hitachi-no-suké and I -were intimate friends and I am much indebted to him.” - -“Pardon me, your Highness,” replied Shigenari, “but to-day I am the -messenger of the Minister of the Right and private matters are out of -place.” - -The tactful Iyeyasu, though put in the wrong, showed not the slightest -trace of embarrassment. Producing a document from a receptacle in his -hand, he passed it to Shigenari by an attendant and said quietly:— - -“Kindly see that this is correct, Shigenari.” - -Shigenari carefully read over the paper which ran as follows:— - -“In compliance with an Imperial Edict, Iyeyasu and Hideyori agree to -make peace, on the sole condition that Hideyori fill up the outer moat -of his castle as a token of his peaceful intentions. Either of the -parties concerned who first appeals to arms henceforth, shall -be guilty of disobeying the Imperial Mandate and shall be treated -accordingly. - -“Keichō 19, 12th month, 27th day.” - -As he read Shigenari’s face grew darker and darker, and when he came -to the end he started to his feet and exclaimed indignantly:— - -“Are these your terms of peace, Your Highness? If so you have already -disobeyed the Imperial command! Prepare!” - -Sword in hand it seemed as if he were about to attack the old -statesman. All present started up and sought to intercept the thrust. -Iyeyasu, alarmed, raised both hands in deprecation and bade the young -man resume his seat. - -“Calm yourself, I pray you,” he said hastily. “Old age makes me -forgetful. By mistake I have shown you the wrong paper—here is the -right one.” - -The crafty statesman produced another document from the case he held -and handed it to Shigenari. It is hardly necessary to explain that this -was an artifice. Iyeyasu had caused to be prepared two documents in -different terms. Should the envoys accept the first in which all the -advantage was on his side his intention was to keep back the other in -which were stated the real conditions of the treaty. Shigenari had -been too astute for him. He now examined the new document which read -thus:— - - “VOWS OF PEACE - -“Article I.—In compliance with an Imperial Command, Iyeyasu and - Hideyori vow to make peace and to enter into friendly - relations. - -“Article II.—Hideyori shall destroy the outer moat of his Castle, and - Iyeyasu shall in return cede to him the provinces of Kii and - Yamato by January next. - -“Article III.—Immediately on the signing of the Vows of Peace, Iyeyasu - shall disband his army and depart for Yamato. - -“Article IV.—Either of the parties who violates the above vows and - resorts to arms shall be found guilty of disobedience to the - Imperial Command and shall be punished by the gods. - - “Keichō 19, 12th month, 27th day.” - -Shigenari read the paper carefully several times. - -“This is correct, Your Highness. Be pleased to put your signature and -seal.” - -Iyeyasu complied. The envoy receiving it back put it into a bag -made of rich brocade. Then bowing courteously, he said gravely though -not without a touch of sarcasm:— - -“I beg to congratulate Your Highness.” - -Then turning to the assembled daimios he bowed to them also saying:— - -“I thank you for your attendance.” - -Receiving their salutations in return, he once more made an obeisance -to Iyeyasu. - -“Allow me to take my leave, Your Highness. Farewell, Your Highness and -your Excellencies.” - -With graceful courtesy he bowed once more and with his subordinate left -the audience-chamber. All were constrained to admire his noble bearing -and courage. - - - III. - -Hideyori faithfully observed his part of the “Vows of Peace,” and -the outer moat which had constituted the greatest element in the -“impregnability” of his castle was filled up and levelled with the -ground. But Iyeyasu who had never had the least intention of fulfilling -his part of the treaty held back the stipulated provinces in spite of -all the demands of Hideyori. Hence in the spring of the following year -hostilities were resumed, and a great army commanded by Iyeyasu -once more invested the Castle of Osaka. - -The garrison made a stubborn resistance for some weeks but the fortress -was now shorn of its main protection, and most unfortunately the -discord between Madame Yodogimi’s favourite generals and the other -officers assumed formidable dimensions. In consequence, the defenders -were severely defeated in more than one engagement, and their numbers -were so greatly reduced that it was impossible for them to hold the -castle much longer. - -One night Sanada Yukimura, the Chief of the General Staff, met -Shigenari in secret. - -“It is not possible for us to hold out,” he said gloomily. “We must -effect the escape of our lord out of the castle and convey him to a -place of security—he can take refuge in the province of Lord Shimazu. -Through him we may be able to do something to retrieve our losses and -restore the power of our clan. Some of us must go with our chief, but -in order the more easily to get away the enemy must be deluded with -the idea that Hideyori and his bravest warriors have fallen; therefore -we must leave substitutes behind us who resemble us in some degree. -Their bodies will be found, and the enemy will think we are dead and -not try to pursue us as they most certainly would do if they thought -we had fled. I have found my substitute; do you find yours. I must -regret that it is necessary for these men to sacrifice their lives for -ours, but we must all act for the future good of the clan to which we -owe allegiance—all personal considerations must give way. Do you not -approve of my plan?” - -“It is an excellent idea,” replied Shigenari, after some reflection. -“And I heartily approve of it. But if every experienced general leaves -the castle even though substitutes are left, the shrewd Iyeyasu -will soon suspect the truth. I at any rate must remain. I was seen -by Iyeyasu and his staff only a short time ago; they will not have -forgotten my features and cannot be deceived by another man clad in my -armour. Therefore, I leave the escort of our lord and the restoration -of the clan to you and the other generals. I will stay alone with the -garrison and fight to the last. My death and your life are equally -necessary for the sake of our lord. So do not seek to dissuade me. I am -resolved.” - -“A truly noble resolve, my friend,” said Yukimura with admiration. -“Would that I could remain with you! I am reluctant to leave you alone -and we shall miss your help, but if you are determined to do -this thing far be it from me to dissuade you. It must be well-known -to the enemy that you are a favourite of our lord and always in close -attendance on his person; so when they find your dead body on the field -they will never suspect he has escaped. Your death in this way will be -the means of restoring the power of the Toyotomis. I could find it in -my heart to envy you, good comrade!” - -“Then that is settled. To-morrow I will charge the enemy’s line with my -men and divert his attention while the rest of you steal out from the -rear.” - -After a few words of affectionate farewell, the two men parted knowing -they would never meet again. - - * * * * * - -On retiring to his room for a brief rest, Shigenari spoke to his young -wife in his usual cheerful manner. - -“To-morrow our troops are going to make a sally that will effectually -dispose of the enemy,” he said. “On such a notable occasion I wish to -wear the armour my lord graciously gave me last year; pray bring it to -me.” - -When his wife brought it he took the helmet; and burning some very -precious incense called _Ranjatai_, held the helmet so that the smoke -ascended into it. Aoyagi, divining from his manner that he had some -solemn motive for this action, felt her heart sink. - -“You intend to die fighting in to-morrow’s engagement:—is it not so, my -husband?” - -“Die fighting?” said Shigenari. “Why do you ask? Does not a soldier -always take his life in his hand when he goes to the field of battle?” - -“Yes, but there is some special reason why I think you will fall -to-morrow. I have often heard that a warrior burns incense into his -helmet when he is determined to die on the field. I know the castle -will fall before long and I am sure you mean to give up your life in -to-morrow’s battle. Do not seek to deceive me. I am the daughter of a -samurai. I will not let you die alone.” - -“My brave wife! Forgive my hesitation in disclosing to you my resolve. -I forebore to take you into my confidence fearing just this thing.” - -He then gave his wife an account of his conversation with Sanada -Yukimura and of their decision. - -“Though I give up my life for my lord,” he concluded. “Do not be so -rash as to die with me. It is my wish that you should live and -pray for the prosperity of our lord. Live for his sake. It is my last -request.” - -“Your wish is my law,” answered his wife. “I will obey you. I know you -will die a glorious death and leave undying fame behind you!” - -Then Aoyagi brought _saké_ and two tiny cups in which they drank -to their long farewell. That ceremony over, Aoyagi excused herself -and retired to her own apartment. As she did not return, Shigenari, -wondering at her long absence, went to seek her; and to his horror and -amazement found that she had committed suicide with a short sword that -lay beside the lifeless body. A written paper explained her rash act. - -“Husband,” it ran, “forgive my dying before you. I meant to obey you, -but I cannot do so. Kō-u of China, though a brave warrior overcome with -grief at parting with wife, hesitated shamefully before going to his -last battle. In our country Kiso Yoshinaka showed the same weakness. -Not for a moment do I compare you to those men, but still I think that -I, who losing you will have no further hope in this world, had better -die now before you fight your last fight and go to wait for you in -Hades. Do your best against the foe! We shall meet again in the -Spirit World—till then farewell! Aoyagi.” - - - * * * * * - -The morning of the next day broke clear and cloudless. It was the first -day of the fifth month in the twentieth year of Keichō (1615). - -A large force under the command of Ii Naotaka advanced from the enemy’s -camp and rushed to the attack. Shigenari met them at the head of seven -hundred cavalry, and a fierce struggle took place. With the strength of -desperation Shigenari’s company, though so inferior in numbers, beat -back the foe. But as one regiment was beaten, another and yet another -dashed forward to take its place, and it was impossible that the castle -party could win in the end. - -“We must cut our way into the main regiment,” said Shigenari during -a short breathing space to his faithful retainer Ryōkwan—once known -as the “Tea-priest”—“If we can only manage to kill Ii Naotaka, the -Commander in Chief, the enemy will be disheartened and we may have some -chance.” - -Then inspired by the example of their leader, the little band -hurled themselves on the foe; and unable to stand against such -fury, the fourth and fifth companies fell back in disorder, and it -seemed that a general rout would be the result. - -Ii alone stood his ground. Brandishing his _saihai_ or baton he roared -in stentorian tones:— - -“Cowards! Do you fly before such a handful? Back, back, and the day is -ours!” - -His words took instant effect. His flying troops rallied, maintained -their position and fought bravely. Seeing this, Shigenari smiled grimly -to himself. - -“Now is my time to break through the lines, kill Ii and then die!” - -Putting spurs to his horse he darted forward swift as a flash of -lightning, his brilliant helmet and shining armour gleaming in the -sun. Ryōkwan followed close with his heavy iron rod, and the rest -of the devoted band strove to keep up, cutting and hewing their way -through the ranks. So violent was their onset that again Ii’s men -wavered. At this critical juncture Seki Jūrozaemon, a samurai noted -for his huge strength, suddenly appeared and struck at Shigenari with -a great halberd; but Shigenari’s spear point pierced clean through his -breastplate of mail and he fell dead from his horse. Ii’s soldiers were -panic-stricken and none ventured to oppose Shigenari who continued -his onward rush and attacked Ii before he had time to escape. Being -no match for his assailant, Ii must have fallen had it not been for -one Fujita Noto-no-Kami who came to his rescue. Furious at this check -Shigenari turned to throw him from the saddle with a single thrust, and -in that moment Ii managed to escape. - -Looking back, Shigenari could see but few of his men; nearly all had -fallen in the mêlée. Severely wounded, and faint with loss of blood, -Shigenari realised that he could do no more. Unnoticed he alighted from -his spent horse and retired to a small grove on some elevated ground. -His approach was observed by a low fellow belonging to Ii’s camp who -was hiding behind the trees. Such was the estimation in which Shigenari -was held that even in his weakness he inspired awe and dread. The -skulking coward did not dare to attack him openly, but as the wounded -hero lay gasping on the ground stole softly up behind him and aimed a -blow at his head. Shigenari heard the slight rustle of his approach and -turned, whereupon the wretch made off. Shigenari called him back. - -“Fellow,” he said, “whoever you are, come here and take my head.” - -But the man fearing some trick hesitated to obey. - -“Coward,” cried the dying warrior, “you have nothing to fear from me. -Cut off my head, but I conjure you not to remove the helmet till you -present it to your master, Iyeyasu. I am impatient—cut off my head as I -bid you.” - -As he spoke Shigenari lifted the lower plates of his helmet and -stretched out his neck for the blow. As in a trance the craven crept up -and severed the head from the body. Then gaining courage he raised the -dripping trophy high in the air and shouted at the top of his voice:— - -“I, Andō Chōzaburō, single-handed, have taken the head of -Nagato-no-Kami Shigenari, the most renowned warrior in the Osaka Army!” - -The boast reached the ears of a man covered with blood who was still in -the thick of the fray. It was Ryōkwan. - -“My Lord, Nagato-no-Kami, was not the man to be killed by such a -weakling as Andō,” he cried, as loudly as his failing strength would -permit. “He had some reason for allowing his head to be cut off. -Remember that, my enemies.” - -With that he stabbed himself in his abdomen and expired. - - * * * * * - -After the battle the head of Shigenari, enclosed in its helmet, was -taken to Iyeyasu for inspection. It had been the desire of all that -day to get the head of the hero, and Ieyasu had the helmet removed -for verification. As this was done the sweet odour of incense floated -through the air. - -The old statesman surveyed the noble features with something of -reverent admiration. - -“Never was a more loyal or courageous samurai than Nagato-no-Kami!” he -said slowly. “Would that I had many like him!” - - * * * * * - -The attempted escape from the castle proved a failure. On May 8th, the -besiegers once more attacked the castle on all sides, and there ensued -one of the bloodiest struggles in the history of Japan. It resulted in -the complete overthrow of Hideyori’s faction and the destruction of the -castle by fire. The unfortunate nobleman, his mother and all the -maids of honour perished in the flames. - -[6] A samurai of lower rank whose business it was to serve his lord -with tea, and who was often master of the tea ceremonies. He had his -head shaven like a priest—hence the name “tea-priest.” - - - - - HONEST KYŪSUKÉ - - -Gonzaemon, the head-man of the village of Tamamura in the province -of Kōdzuké, whose family had from generation to generation enjoyed a -large fortune, employed a number of servants. Among them was one named -Kyūsuké who had been added to the household on the recommendation of a -peasant of the same village as being exceedingly honest. Though he was -very young, unlike other servants, he worked very hard and performed -all his duties as well when no one observed him as under the eye of -his master. Gonzaemon, therefore, began to look upon him as a great -acquisition and took a keen interest in him. - -One day he summoned Kyūsuké to his room and said:— - -“Kyūsuké, I am pleased to see that you always work faithfully, but I -think I should be more pleased if you would leave off working at an -earlier hour in the evening and go to bed at the same time as your -fellow-servants. If you continue to be so much more industrious -than they there will be complaints among them.” - -“My good master,” answered the young man, “though I do not like to -disobey you, I regret to say that I can never get to sleep before nine -o’clock at night.” - -“You surprise me,” said Gonzaemon, “but at least you can oblige me by -remaining in bed until the usual hour for getting up in the morning.” - -“My good master,” replied Kyūsuké again, “I am very sorry to displease -you so often, but mine is a hopeless case, for to be frank with you I -cannot for the life of me stay abed after seven in the morning.” - -Now, you must know, that according to our old way of counting time, -nine at night was midnight, and seven in the morning answered to 4 -o’clock. Kyūsuké, therefore, never slept more than four hours every -night, and his master on learning this was surprised beyond measure. - -“What a wonder you are!” he exclaimed. “It is seldom one finds -gentlemen in service such passionate lovers of work! How gratified -I am to find such a notable exception in you. I trust you will not -take my suggestion amiss; it was necessary in order that your -fellow-servants should not suffer in consequence of your zeal for work.” - -“I humbly beg your forgiveness for venturing to disobey your kind -orders,” said the young man respectfully. - -“Don’t beg my forgiveness,” said his master, “for by so doing you put -me in an awkward position.” - -After considering for a few moments while the servant waited silently -for further orders, Gonzaemon resumed:— - -“Well, Kyūsuké, I have another suggestion to offer you. You know that -you are your own master while your fellow-servants are asleep. I do not -wish you to work for me in those hours, so if you do not wish to rest, -employ that time in making sandals for your own profit. I will see that -you are provided with plenty of straw.” - -“My good master, you are very kind, but I fear it is not right that a -servant should use any of his time in work for his own profit.” - -Thus Kyūsuké once more baffled the kind intentions of his master. -Gonzaemon was struck with his faithfulness. - -“If you persist in refusing all my proposals I shall be at a loss -what to do with you,” he said. “So be pleased to do as I request you -only this once.” - -Kyūsuké could not refuse his master’s kindness so delicately offered, -and he consented to use his spare time for his own profit. Henceforth -the early morning and late evening hours were devoted to the task of -making _waraji_ or straw sandals, which he sold to a kitchen-ware -dealer in the village, thereby making a small but regular income, every -_sen_ of which he intrusted to his kind master for safe keeping. Soon -the young servant’s diligence became known, and the country people -encouraged his industry by always asking for the “Kyūsuké _waraji_” -in preference to any other. This naturally pleased the dealer who -continually pressed Kyūsuké for further supplies. Gonzaemon, likewise -pleased at the success of his plan, determined to lend out the money -in his charge so as to increase the amount by good interest. In this -he found no difficulty for people had the idea that some luck attached -itself to anything connected with the honest servant, and were only too -glad to be accommodated with loans out of his savings. - -Thus eight years passed away and Kyūsuké was still a servant in the -household of Gonzaemon. One day the latter called the young man -into his apartment and addressed him as follows:— - -“My dear Kyūsuké, time indeed flies like an arrow, as the proverb says. -Eight years have elapsed since I was so fortunate as to take you into -my service. You have never squandered your wages as other servants do; -setting apart a certain amount for small personal expenses you have -regularly committed to my care all that you earned. I should certainly -have proved but a poor banker, had I not sought some profitable -investment for your deposits. All these years I have been lending out -your money at a moderate rate, and it is astonishing to find how much -your capital now amounts to. Behold! Your savings with interest and -compound interest now reach the sum of one hundred _ryō_! Now, what do -you propose to do with all this money?” - -“My good master,” said Kyūsuké, quite taken aback at the idea of such -wealth, “you must be joking!” - -“Not at all; it is as I say. Will you continue to lend it out, or would -you prefer to dispose of it in some other way? It is for you to decide.” - -“A hundred _ryō_!” gasped Kyūsuké. “Did you really say ‘one hundred -_ryō_’?” - -“A hundred _ryō_!” replied his master smiling. - -“It is unbelievable!” said Kyūsuké. - -“Your own industry is responsible for it,” said Gonzaemon. “Now tell me -what you are going to do with it.” - -Kyūsuké pondered long and deeply. At length he spoke. - -“Kind master, if you would not think it taking an unpardonable liberty, -I should much like to take the money and pay a short visit to my native -place next spring.” - -“By all means” said Gonzaemon. “Do you know of a good investment in -your native place?” - -“No,” answered Kyūsuké, readily enough now. “But you will understand -better if I tell you a little of my family history. Excuse the liberty -I take in troubling you with my affairs. I am the second son of a -peasant, Kyūzaemon by name, living in the village of Shimo-Ogita-mura -near Nanao, in the province of Noto. My elder brother, after leading a -dissipated life and causing his parents much grief, suddenly left home -and has never been heard of since. My mother died soon after, and my -father married a widow with one daughter. Before long my step-mother -took it into her head to adopt a son to marry her daughter and -succeed my father as head of the family. Me she hated, and consequently -treated me so unkindly, that I was soon convinced it would be for the -happiness of all parties that I should leave home and go right away. So -one day, leaving a letter of apology behind me, I secretly came away. -At first I had rather a hard time of it, but since I was so lucky as -to become your servant I have had nothing to complain of. I cannot -sufficiently thank you for all your kindness to me.” Here Kyūsuké -paused, and bowed low, while tears filled his eyes. Conquering his -emotion he resumed:— - -“One hundred _ryō_, the largest sum of money I have ever set eyes -on, I owe entirely to your goodness—how can I thank you? That I may -make a proper use of your gift—for so I consider it—I shall return to -my father and with this money buy him some rice-fields. In addition, -should my step-sister still remain single I shall try to find her a -suitable husband. Having done this and established my family so that it -will be in no danger of extinction, I shall make all haste to return -to you and beg to offer you my lifelong service as some small way of -requiting all you have done for me.” - -Gonzaemon was greatly touched. - -“Kyūsuké,” he said, “you are a noble fellow! A dutiful son as well as -a faithful servant. I admire your laudable intention. ‘To your old -home return in splendour’ says an old proverb, so Kyūsuké, return in -splendour indeed! I will make it my business to provide the clothes you -shall wear, and I will also see that you have suitable presents to take -to all your relations.” - -Thus the conversation ended and Kyūsuké retired to pursue his usual -avocations. - - * * * * * - -Early the following year, in spite of his servant’s remonstrances, -Gonzaemon, as good as his word, prepared all the necessary garments -for Kyūsuké to wear in order to make a good impression on his visit -home, and presents for each member of his family. Further, he pressed -upon Kyūsuké’s acceptance a short sword for protection on his journey, -ten _ryō_ for travelling expenses, and five _ryō_ as a parting gift. -Producing Kyūsuké’s own hundred _ryō_ he said:— - -“Now, my dear Kyūsuké, you had better not carry this large sum in cash -for fear you might get robbed on the way; I advise you to send it by -bill of exchange.” - -“Indeed, no, good master,” replied Kyūsuké. “That is quite unnecessary; -who would suspect that a fellow of my sort had any money about him and -attempt to rob me? It will be quite safe in the bosom of my dress.” - -“But you might lose it in some other way,” persisted Gonzaemon. “You -had better do as I say,—one cannot be too much on one’s guard while -travelling.” - -Kyūsuké laughed. - -“Do not be uneasy on my account,” he said. “I will be careful.” - -“As you please, Kyūsuké; but at least listen to me in one thing; while -on your journey always make it a rule to start late in the morning, -and to put up early in the evening. Above all never make a travelling -companion, and do not speak of your affairs.” - -“I will bear in mind what you say, and most certainly follow your -advice,” said Kyūsuké. “A thousand thanks for all your favours, kind -master. I can never forget all I owe to you.” - -With affectionate words on both sides Kyūsuké and his master parted -and the young man set out on his journey homewards. But once upon the -road the dutiful son, too eager to set his eyes once more on the -village of his forefathers, was indiscreet enough to travel from the -earliest hour of the day till late at night. So it was, that when he -was in the neighbourhood of Oiwaké in the province of Shinano he one -night lost his way in the darkness, and after a long march of five or -six _ri_ found himself in the middle of an extensive moor without a -trace of human habitation. - -“What shall I do?” he asked himself. “I fear I have been too rash. Had -I followed my master’s advice I should not be in this plight. It is -only what I deserve.” - -Plodding on Kyūsuké was overjoyed after a time to observe a glimmer -of light in the distance. Taking heart at this sign of a dwelling of -some kind, he bent his weary steps toward it, and by and by came to a -tumble-down cottage which appeared to be the only habitation for miles -around. Kyūsuké went up to the door and called for admittance. - -“Be good enough to show favour to a stranger! I am very sorry to -disturb you at this late hour, but have lost my way and cannot find the -road. Please let me in and tell me how to get to the nearest inn.” - -The door opened and a woman appeared. She was about thirty and poorly -dressed and her coiffure was of a mean style, but there was -something in her person that seemed to contradict the idea that her -birth was as low as her surroundings. - -“Come in,” she said. “But you must not stay. I am indeed sorry for you, -for you stand in the middle of one of Shinano’s many moors. Whichever -way you turn you must walk about five _ri_ before you come to another -house.” - -Kyūsuké being very tired requested the woman to give him a night’s -lodging, but she shook her head. - -“Why did you come here?” - -“I have told you; I lost my way and I saw a light. You cannot be so -inhuman as to refuse me shelter for a few hours,—I ask no more.” - -“You will not want to stay when I tell you that this is the house of a -robber—a highwayman.” - -“A robber!” Kyūsuké thinking of his treasure was alarmed. “Excuse me, I -must go on at once.” - -“Will you not rest a few moments?” - -“By no means. How can I sit down in what I have learned is the -residence of a highway-gentleman? Allow me to say Good-night; I am much -obliged to you.” - -Kyūsuké was for going at once but the woman stopped him. - -“Good traveller, I must tell you that you are encompassed by danger in -every direction. After all, I think the safest course for you to pursue -is to remain here for the night and I will hide you from my husband. He -will not be back for some time yet.” - -The manner and speech of the woman inspired confidence, so Kyūsuké -deemed it prudent to abide by her advice. Taking off the large bamboo -hat that he wore as a protection from both sun and rain, he sat down on -the boarded floor of the kitchen glad to rest his weary limbs at last. -The woman hurriedly prepared a simple supper for him, which he ate with -relish, though in haste, as he feared the return of the master. The -woman then led him to a wood-shed at the back of the cottage and said:— - -“You would be in great danger should my husband discover you. So keep -yourself hidden in this shed and do not mind a little discomfort. As -soon as it is day and my husband goes out, I will let you out and you -can continue your journey in safety.” - -Kyūsuké thanked her warmly, and had not long ensconced himself among -the piles of firewood, making himself as comfortable as he could under -the circumstances, when he heard a sound that caused his heart to -leap into his mouth. - -“O-Nami, I have returned.” - -“Oh, is it you at last?” welcomed the wife. - -“How cold it is! Confound those killing winds that blow, down from Mt. -Asama! O-Nami!” - -“Yes; what is it?” - -“Whose hat is that?” - -[Illustration: “Whose hat is that?”] - -“Hat? What hat?” - -“Come, no equivocations! There is a strange hat on the floor, and you -know whose it is. Out with it! I don’t like this underhand way you have -acquired of hiding things from me. You are concealing someone in the -house!” - -“Indeed, no! Why should I want to conceal anyone.” - -“Then how did this bamboo hat get here? Do you want me to believe that -the wind blew it in, as ours is the only building to check its course -for miles around? Come, woman, speak up!” - -There was the sound of quick movement, and a cry— - -“Mercy, mercy....” - -“Come, speak up or you are a dead woman!” - -Kyūsuké, in his hiding in the wood-shed, could imagine the scene. - -“This is terrible!” he thought. “How could I be such a fool as to -forget my hat! It may cost the woman her life!” - -The noise in the cottage increased, mingled with the shrieks of the -poor woman and the threats of her enraged husband. Kyūsuké stole out of -his hiding place and peeped cautiously through a crack in the door. To -his horror he found the man was dragging his wife round the room by her -long hair with one hand, while he repeatedly struck her with the other. -At this sight Kyūsuké forgetting his own fears burst in. - -“Sir, sir, all the money I have about me I will give you! The woman is -not to blame,—spare her!” - -“Who spoke?” - -The infuriated man checked his wrath for a moment to stare in -astonishment at the unexpected apparition. - -Taking advantage of the lull, Kyūsuké quickly produced his hundred -_ryō_ along with what remained of the money his master had given him -for the journey and the little gift. - -“Here, good sir, take all—I have no more—and do not punish your -wife for a kind action. I only am to blame.” - -The ruffian took no further notice of his wife whom he left sobbing -on the floor, but turned to take up with greedy hands the rich store -offered by the traveller. Not content with money, however, he coolly -demanded all the clothes he was wearing and possessed himself of the -dagger into the bargain. Poor Kyūsuké! all the earnings of eight -hard-working years had gone to fill the pockets of a villainous -gentleman of the road. - -“In pity, give me back my clothes, I cannot go either back or forward -in this naked state,” pleaded Kyūsuké. “And my dagger—I need it to -defend myself from gentlemen such as you—though I have nothing of which -to be robbed now!” he added ruefully. - -“Take these,” said the robber, throwing him a wadded garment and a -girdle, both much the worse for wear. - -“Thank you very much, but now my dagger....” - -“That I shall find useful myself.” - -“But without it I shall be at the mercy of any dog on the way....” - -“What a troublesome fellow you are! But no one shall say I left -you without the means of defence. Here, take this, and begone!” - -With these words the robber produced from a cupboard an old sword -doubtless acquired from some former luckless wayfarer and handed it to -Kyūsuké, adding:— - -“After leaving this house go straight on till you come to a broad road, -follow this always turning to the north and in due time you will reach -Oiwaké. Now go!” - -“Again my best thanks,” said Kyūsuké bowing low; then turning to the -poor woman he said softly:— - -“I am very sorry to have brought all this trouble upon you, forgive me.” - -“No, no, it was I who was to blame but, indeed, I did it for the best.” - -“A truce to this nonsense!” cried the robber impatiently. “Here is a -torch to light your way; be off before I change my mind about letting -you go.” - -“Then, master and mistress, farewell to you,” and with these words -Kyūsuké accepted the torch held out to him and hastened away. But the -fates seemed to be still against him, for no sooner had he set forth -than the rain which had begun to come down in torrents put out -his light so that he was in complete darkness. But this misfortune in -reality saved his life, for the robber had given Kyūsuké a light for -no other purpose than that it would serve his own evil intent, which -was to shoot the traveller as soon as his back was turned. True, he -might have despatched him before he left the cottage, but in that -case his wife would have interfered and been troublesome; besides he -hardly liked to turn upon Kyūsuké and murder him just when he had so -ungrudgingly given up all he had. Wicked man though he was he could not -bring himself to such a dastardly action as that. However, as soon as -Kyūsuké closed the door the robber, weapon in hand, softly opened it -again and crept out, intending to take aim by the light that Kyūsuké -carried. But, alas for him, and fortunately for his intended victim, -the heavy rain had extinguished the light; so muttering “lucky dog!” he -re-entered his home leaving Kyūsuké to continue his way unmolested. - -On arriving at Oiwaké Kyūsuké drew a long breath and congratulated -himself on his narrow escape, though how narrow he did not realise. -There he gave up his cherished idea of visiting his old home, and -determined to retrace his steps to his master’s house, begging his way -as he had now no money to pay for even the poorest fare. Gonzaemon -received him very kindly, though, having heard the details of Kyūsuké’s -adventure, he could not resist saying:— - -“Did I not warn you? If you had drawn a draft for the money as I -advised you this would never have happened. But it is too late to -talk of that now. You were lucky to escape with the loss of your -property,—you might have lost your life as well. Do not give way to -despair. Rest for a few days and then set to work again.” - -While speaking to Kyūsuké the master happened to take up the old sword -he had got from the robber. The thread round the hilt was frayed and -coming off. He tried to draw the blade but it was so rusty with disuse -that it stuck fast in the sheath. Bending over it his eye was caught by -the decorative stud which he was convinced was not of brass. Thinking -the weapon might be of more value than appeared at first sight, he sent -for a dealer in old wares, Kichibei by name, and requested his opinion -as to its merits, pretending that it belonged to one of his friends who -wished to dispose of it to the best advantage. - -The dealer, with the skill acquired by long practice, soon -withdrew the blade from its sheath, and after closely examining it for -some time, said:— - -“The sword is a valuable one. The blade is so rusty that I cannot say -anything for certain about it, but the ornamentation is undoubtedly -of solid gold. The pommel and stud are of Gotō’s engraving, and the -guard itself being by Nobuié is worth at least thirty-five _ryō_. I am -willing to give one hundred and thirty _ryō_ for the decorative parts -alone.” - -These words quite surpassed the expectations of Gonzaemon. He sent the -dealer away on the pretext that he would consult his friend, and then -told Kyūsuké what he had said. - -At this undreamt-of good luck Kyūsuké was struck dumb as well he might -be. Gonzaemon, however, encouraged by Kichibei’s opinion thought that -a Yedo expert might value the sword even more highly and be more able, -as well as willing, to purchase it at a higher rate. A blade in so -elaborate and rich a mounting could hardly fail to prove a good one; -and knowing something of the estimation in which much workmanship was -held, he decided to go up to Yedo himself and do the best he could for -his faithful but simple servant. - -In Yedo he submitted the weapon to the examination of Honami, the -ablest connoisseur in matters of this sort, who pronounced the blade -to be the undoubted work of Bizen Nagamitsu, one of the ten clever -disciples of Masamuné, although the name of the maker was not on it. -Further, in proof of his belief he offered to buy it for eight hundred -_ryō_, an offer Gonzaemon was more than glad to accept. - -The business that took him to the city so satisfactorily concluded, he -hastened home with all speed and gave the astonished Kyūsuké an account -of the transaction. Laying the money before him he concluded with these -words:— - -“My dear Kyūsuké, see how advantageous it is to be honest always! Your -misfortune has proved a blessing in disguise. Heaven approving of your -upright conduct has been pleased to grant you this great favour. How -grateful we should be! Now go home again with all despatch, but this -time take my advice and do not carry such a large sum in cash.” - -As soon as Kyūsuké recovered from his surprise he bowed respectfully to -his master, and spoke as follows:— - -“My good master, you overwhelm me with obligation! I have no words in -which to express my feelings. But far be it from me to appropriate all -this large sum. I hesitate to displease you, but only one hundred -_ryō_ do I consider is mine,—for I left the robber’s house poorer by -just that amount, and that sum I shall send home by money order as you -advise. As for the rest, after you deduct the expenses of your journey -to Yedo, I shall carry it all to the robber. The sword was his and I -can not make myself rich at the expense of a poor highwayman,—that -would never do!” - -Gonzaemon was struck with admiration at this disinterested conduct on -the part of his servant. - -“My good fellow,” he said warmly, “your honesty puts me to shame! But -surely you will not unnecessarily risk your life for such a purpose. As -for my journey to Yedo, that is purely my affair and you will dismiss -it from your mind. But consider before you act so rashly as to put -yourself again into the power of a desperate man.” - -But Kyūsuké was obstinate as well as honest. - -“Far be it from me to go in opposition to your wishes,” he said, -respectfully, “but in this thing only I beg you to let me have my own -way. I am loath to cause you any uneasiness, but villain though he is -he will surely not harm a man who comes to do him a good turn. There -can be no danger.” - -Gonzaemon, knowing from experience that further persuasions would be -of no avail, reluctantly permitted his servant to do as he proposed. -After sending one hundred _ryō_ to his father by money order, he tied -up the seven hundred _ryō_ remaining in a little package, which he put -in his bosom and once more set off on his travels. Contrary to his -former experience, he had this time no little difficulty in finding -the cottage of the highwayman; at last, however, he came to the door -which in response to his call was again opened by the kind-hearted -mistress. Kyūsuké bowed, and in polite terms thanked her for the -favours he received at her hands on a former occasion. The woman was -much surprised, but controlling her emotion she said:— - -“My good traveller, I do not know how to apologise for what I did to -you the other day. Nevertheless you have come again! I shall be still -more grieved if you are robbed a second time. Fortunately for you,— -though _I_ am sorry—my husband is sick in bed. Please make all haste to -retrace your steps.” - -Kyūsuké’s kind heart was moved with compassion for the sick man and his -wife. - -“Indeed I sympathise with you both. Allow me to pay my respects to him -and inquire after his health.” - -“No, no, sir! He is suffering now but his avarice may be excited at the -sight of you. Should he again demand all you have with you, you may -again be inconvenienced.” - -“Be quite easy on that score; I am here to bring him some money.” - -“What do you mean?” - -“You are naturally surprised. Let me in and you will know. I must see -your husband.” - -Reluctantly the woman let him come into the house. Making his way to an -inner room where the sick man was lying groaning, Kyūsuké, saluting him -in the usual manner, inquired:— - -“My friend, how are you?” - -“This is the traveller you treated so unkindly a short time ago,” -explained the woman, seeing that her husband did not recognize the -visitor. - -“Which one?” asked the robber, sourly. - -“Sir, it is I. I do not know how to requite you for the kindness you -showed me the other day. But now I must tell you what brings me here -again.” - -Thereupon Kyūsuké proceeded to inform the robber of what had happened -about the sword, and laying the packet of money by the bed concluded as -follows:— - -“From the price paid for the sword I have deducted one hundred _ryō_ -as my due, sending it to my home by money order. All the rest I have -brought with me and it is in that package except a small sum I have -taken the liberty to keep for my travelling expenses. I have not -quite enough to take me to my home in Noto province, and then back to -my master’s house in Tamamura, Kōdzuké province, so I shall be much -obliged if you will kindly allow me a little more. As for the remainder -you are welcome to appropriate it all. Ah, how glad I am to be relieved -of the charge of this money which has been a source of constant anxiety -ever since I set out on this journey.” - -The sick man appeared to be much impressed by the simple recital of -Kyūsuké’s tale. After a pause he said:— - -“You say your home is in Noto; from what part of the province do you -come?” - -“I was born in Ogita-mura near Nanao. My name is Kyūsuké and I am the -son of a peasant called Kyūzaemon.” - -“Was your elder brother called Kyūtarō?” - -“How do you know that?” - -“You may well wonder. Kyūsuké, I have hardly the face to tell you.... I -am Kyūtarō, fallen as you see to the depths of degradation and -misery.” - -“My elder brother, Kyūtarō!” - -“With shame I say it, yes.” - -The two brothers embraced with tears. O-Nami was surprised beyond -measure at the pathetic sight. - -“Are you indeed my husband’s brother? Forgive me, I did not guess it,” -and she burst into tears. - -Kyūsuké hastened to console her. - -“I beg you will not cry; forgive my rudeness in not knowing who you -were, and forgive also the great trouble I have occasioned you.” - -Kyūtarō, whose conscience was at last smitten at the thought of all his -misdeeds, now took a hunting knife lying within reach, and planted it -in the side of his abdomen. His wife and brother, too late to stop the -rash act, caught his hands. - -“Stop, what madness is this!” cried Kyūsuké. - -“My husband, oh what have you done!” exclaimed the wife. - -Kyūtarō was almost beyond speaking. In a faint voice he said painfully:— - -“Brother, wife, how can I continue to live? Kyūsuké, when I recall -how vile I have been I am stricken with remorse and shame. When you -were here last I would have killed you, little dreaming you were -my brother; O-Nami’s remonstrances were of no avail, only providence -saved you by miraculously putting out the torch you carried. My evil -designs have all turned to your good fortune; the sword I gave you to -encourage you the sooner to leave this house proves a precious gift -and brings you a large sum of money. Instead of profiting by it you -take the trouble to come and give it to me. Kyūsuké, how scrupulous you -are! Your nature is honest and spotless as the snow ... mine black as -charcoal! I have filled up the measure of my wickedness; the disease -from which I am now suffering is the punishment of Heaven. What you -have just told me will serve like the blessing of a holy priest to -enlighten my path to the other world. I am determined to die and join -my dead mother,—to offer her my humble apologies for my bad conduct. -There is only one thing that disturbs me at this last moment,—it is -the thought of O-Nami. It was her misfortune that she married such a -wretched husband as I have been, but her heart is pure and tender. Look -after her when I am gone—be kind to her, Kyūsuké, I entreat you.” - -Thus Kyūtarō, unable to bear the stings of an awakened conscience, -succeeded in disengaging himself from the arms of his wife and -brother and died a manly death. - -Kyūsuké and O-Nami mingled their tears over the lifeless body, but the -departed spirit was not to be recalled by their lamentations. So they -strove to conquer their grief and buried the dead robber in the best -manner possible under the circumstances. - -Kyūsuké then started for home, taking the money he had brought so far -and the hair of the deceased. O-Nami accompanied him. Before leaving -the cottage they set fire to it that no one might ever use it for evil -purposes again. - -On reaching home Kyūsuké told his old father, his step-mother and her -daughter, all that had befallen him since he left them so many years -before. The hundred _ryō_ sent in advance had already come to hand, and -he now added to it all the money he had on his person. He also produced -the hair of the dead man. Old Kyūzaemon lamented over the sad fate of -his undutiful son, but at the same time rejoiced in the possession of -so admirable a younger son as Kyūsuké. The step-mother, now repenting -of her selfishness of former days, sought his forgiveness. One and all -took pity on O-Nami in her great misery. It is wonderful how one -man’s goodness works upon the hearts of those about him. It was the -desire of his relations that Kyūsuké should succeed to his father and -carry on the family name; but he firmly declined, and arranged that -his step-sister should get a husband, and that the new couple should -be the heirs of the old man after his demise. As for O-Nami, she was -determined to become a nun and devote her remaining days to religious -services for the soul of her dead husband, her sole concern being -prayer for the blotting out of his sins. It was decided to build a -hermitage for her in order that she might pass her life undisturbed. -This is the origin of the Nanao nunnery. - -Having settled his family affairs to the satisfaction of all concerned, -Kyūsuké was happy to accept out of the cash he had brought home -a small sum sufficient to carry him back to his master’s home in -Kōdzuké province. After recounting his adventures and all he had done, -Kyūsuké begged Gonzaemon to re-engage him on the same terms as before. -Gonzaemon was both surprised and pleased. The praiseworthy actions of -Kyūsuké so moved the good-natured village head-man that he proposed to -set the young man up as one of his branch families. Kyūsuké’s modesty -was by no means eager to accept such an honour, but seeing it was -really the wish of his patron he at length yielded. I need not tell you -how industriously he attended to all his duties that he might prove no -discredit to his master’s judgment. His family thrives in Tama-mura -to this day. As for the sword which he got from his robber brother it -was purchased by Lord Matsudaira, Daimio of Awa province. He named -it “Suté-maru” (a foundling blade) in reference to its history, and -treasured it highly. It is still a valued heirloom in the family. - - - - - 大正九年十二月十五日刷印 - 大正九年十二月二十日發行 - - 定價金四圓 - - 市外上大崎町三百八十番地 - 著者 宮森麻太郎 - - 東京市橋區銀度四丁目一番地 - 發行者 エチ，ダブリユー，ジヨーンス - - 東京市橋區銀度四丁目一番地 - 發行所 教文管 - - 東京市橋區南金六町十二番地 - 刷印者 望月精矣 - - 東京市橋區南金六町十二番地 - 刷印所 英文通信社刷印所 - - - - - Transcriber’s Notes: - - - Text Notes: - - 1. Italicized text is indicated with leading and trailing - underscores. (_) - - 2. Five spaced stars are used to indicate a larger gap between - paragraphs in the printed book. - - 3. In order to facilitate word wrapping, an ellipsis in the middle - of a sentence is replaced by a group of three periods. This group - has a leading and, unless a comma is present, trailing blank - space added. Ellipses at the end of a sentence do not have a - leading blank space, but closing punctuation has been added if - needed. - - 4. Footnotes have been numbered and moved to the end of each - story. - - 5. Half-title pages have been removed. The page numbers given in the - table of contents have been adjusted. - - 6. Illustrations have been placed in a manner to avoid splitting a - paragraph. The page numbers given in the List of Illustrations - have been adjusted as needed. Illustrations are indicated by - “[Illustration:]” with the caption text following the colon. - - 7. The two short poems in this text have been separated apart from - their containing paragraph to avoid word wrapping. They actually - are each part of a single paragraph with the text blocks above and - below. - - 8. Changed paragraphs ending in “,” to “:—” to match style of the - rest of the book: - pg 129: with due reverence, - pg 139: clear and distinct, - pg 151: laughed good-humouredly and, - - 9. Except as mentioned above and in the Change List that follows, - every effort has been made to replicate text as faithfully as - possible, including non-standard or inconsistently applied - punctuation, inconsistently hyphenated words, and other - idiosyncrasies. - - Change List (page numbers from original printed book): - - Table of Contents - The Royalty of A Boy Samurai - changed to - The Loyalty of a Boy Samurai - - Table of Contents - The Wrestling of A Daimio - changed to - The Wrestling of a Daimio - - Page 5 - Villian - changed to - Villain - - Page 7 - Assasination - changed to - Assassination - - Page 37 - Added “I.” section header to match other sections. - - Page 42 - had quite forgotton to attend - changed to - had quite forgotten to attend - - Page 45 - remonstrace - changed to - remonstrance - - Page 57 - Katsuno, till pale and emaciated - changed to - Katsuno, still pale and emaciated - - Page 73 - adressed to Ōsuga Katsutaka - changed to - addressed to Ōsuga Katsutaka - - Page 85 - twelth - changed to - twelfth - - Page 90 - at the inconseqence - changed to - at the inconsequence - - Page 94 - rankling in yonr heart - changed to - rankling in your heart - - Page 95 - seal your reconcilation - changed to - seal your reconciliation - - Page 108 - in the twelth year - changed to - in the twelfth year - - Page 108 - affords me much gratificaiton - changed to - affords me much gratification - - Page 139 - behined - changed to - behind - - Page 155 - Genzaemon - changed to - Gonzaemon - - Page 156 - May I not accomodate you - changed to - May I not accommodate you - - Page 159 - tussel - changed to - tussle - - Page pg 162 - wordly - changed to - worldly - - Page 162 - stipened - changed to - stipend - - Page 173 - Ryōkan - changed to - Ryōkwan - - Page 178 - Kyokwan’s - changed to - Ryōkwan’s - - Page 181 - remontrance - changed to - remonstrance - - Page 188 - “Keicho 19, 12th month, 27th day.” - changed to - “Keichō 19, 12th month, 27th day.” - - Page 189 - PAECE - changed to - PEACE - - Page 189 - receiving it back pu - changed to - receiving it back put - - Page 196 - a short breating space - changed to - a short breathing space - - Page 197 - halbert - changed to - halberd - - Page 199 - “Coward,” cried the dying warrior,” “you - changed to - “Coward,” cried the dying warrior, “you - - Page 199 - weaking - changed to - weakling - - Page 200 - Iyeyrsu - changed to - Ieyasu - - Page 205 - a keen interst in him. - changed to - a keen interest in him. - - Page 217 - Added missing illustration caption. - - Page 225 - but villian though he is - changed to - but villain though he is - - Page 227 - robbor - changed to - robber - - Page 229 - cried Kūysuké - changed to - cried Kyūsuké - - Page 230 - profitting - changed to - profiting - - Page 231 - ifeless body - changed to - lifeless body - - -*** END OF THE PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK 67650 ***
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- padding: .25em; - font-size: .8em;} - - - .footnote { - margin: .25em 10% .25em 10%; - padding: .25em; - font-size: .8em;} - - .fnanchor { - vertical-align: super; - font-size: .8em; - text-decoration: none;} - - .transnote h2 { - margin-top: .5em; - margin-bottom: 1em; - page-break-before: always;} - - </style> - </head> -<body> -<div>*** START OF THE PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK 67650 ***</div> - -<div class="figcenter"> -<p class="center mt2"><span id="img000"> - <img src="images/ill_000.jpg" class="illowp90" alt="Incense is burning under helmet"> -</span></p> -<p class="center caption">“A warrior burns incense into his helmet when he is -determined to die on the field”</p> -<p class="center caption"><i>See page <a href="#Page_194">194</a></i></p> -</div> - - -<div class="title-page"> - -<h1>TALES OF THE<br> SAMURAI</h1> - -<hr class="w_33 x-ebookmaker-drop"> - -<p class="center mt2">Stories illustrating Bushido, the Moral Principles of the Japanese -Knighthood</p> - -<p class="center small mt2">BY</p> - -<p class="center larger125 mt1"><b>ASATARO MIYAMORI</b></p> - -<p class="center smcap mt1">Professor of English in Toyo University,<br> Tokyo, Japan</p> - -<p class="center smcap smaller mt1">Author of “Representative Tales of Japan,”<br> “Tales from Old Japanese -Dramas,” &C.</p> - -<p class="center larger125 mt1_5"><b>With 8 Coloured Illustrations<br> By A Japanese Artist</b></p> - -<p class="center larger110 mt2">THE KYŌ-BUN-KWAN</p> - -<p class="center smaller">Ginza, Tokyo, Japan</p> - -<p class="center smaller">1920</p> - -</div> - - - -<div class="chapter"> -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_i">[i]</span></p> -<h2 class="nobreak" id="PREFACE">PREFACE</h2> -</div> - -<p>The following tales of the samurai, the knights of old Japan, are based -largely on real facts. They have been adapted from among traditional -stories related by <i>kōdanshi</i>, story-tellers, who nightly delight -large audiences with romances and historical stories, especially the -noble deeds of the samurai. There are also numerous Japanese books and -magazines devoted to stories of this description, which are read with -keen interest by all classes of our countrymen, in particular by young -people.</p> - -<p>It is true the samurai class has gone forever along with feudalism; -but fortunately or unfortunately the Japanese at large are samurai -in a sense. During the last half century European civilization has -revolutionized Japanese society, both for better and for worse. In -institutions political and social, in manners and customs, in arts -and literature, the Japanese have lost many of their characteristics; -yet it may safely be said that the sentiments,<span class="pagenum" id="Page_ii">[ii]</span> motives and moral -principles of the samurai in some measure remain in the bedrock of -their character in their subconsciousness, so to speak. The Japanese of -to-day are intellectually almost cosmopolitans, but emotionally they -are still samurai to no small degree.</p> - -<p>Honest Kyūsuké, the hero of the story of the same title, was not a -samurai, but his principles were those of a samurai. Let that justify -the inclusion of the story in this volume.</p> - -<p>The author’s hearty thanks are due to Mr. Joyen Momokawa, a celebrated -<i>kōdanshi</i>, who kindly helped him in the choice of these tales, and -also to the editor of the <cite>Kōdan Kurabu</cite> for permission to translate -<cite>Katsuno’s Revenge</cite>, one of his stories.</p> - -<p class="tlr">A. Miyamori.</p> -<p>Tokio, December, 1920.</p> - - - -<div class="chapter"> -<h2 class="nobreak" id="CONTENTS">CONTENTS</h2> -</div> - -<table class="tocList"> -<tbody> - -<tr> -<td></td> -<td class="tocPageNum small">PAGE</td> -</tr> - -<tr> -<td>Ungo-Zenji</td> -<td class="tocPageNum"><a href="#Page_3">3</a></td> -</tr> - -<tr> -<td>The Loyalty of a Boy Samurai</td> -<td class="tocPageNum"><a href="#Page_25">25</a></td> -</tr> - -<tr> -<td>Katsuno’s Revenge</td> -<td class="tocPageNum"><a href="#Page_37">37</a></td> -</tr> - -<tr> -<td>A Wedding Present</td> -<td class="tocPageNum"><a href="#Page_85">85</a></td> -</tr> - -<tr> -<td>The Heroism of Torii Katsutaka</td> -<td class="tocPageNum"><a href="#Page_117">117</a></td> -</tr> - -<tr> -<td>The Wrestling of a Daimio</td> -<td class="tocPageNum"><a href="#Page_143">143</a></td> -</tr> - -<tr> -<td>The Story of Kimura Shigenari</td> -<td class="tocPageNum"><a href="#Page_167">167</a></td> -</tr> - -<tr> -<td>Honest Kyūsuké</td> -<td class="tocPageNum"><a href="#Page_205">205</a></td> -</tr> - -</tbody> -</table> - - -<div class="chapter"> -<h2 class="nobreak" id="ILLUSTRATIONS">LIST OF ILLUSTRATIONS</h2> -</div> - -<table class="tocList"> -<tbody> - -<tr> -<td></td> -<td class="tocPageNum small">PAGE</td> -</tr> - -<tr> -<td class="hindent">“A warrior burns incense into his helmet when he is determined to die on the field”</td> -<td class="tocPageNum"><a href="#img000"><i>Frontispiece</i></a></td> -</tr> - -<tr> -<td class="hindent">“May I ask you to explain the place of honour given to a garden <i>geta</i>?”</td> -<td class="tocPageNum"><a href="#img018">18</a></td> -</tr> - -<tr> -<td class="hindent">“I caught these sparrows quite of my own accord”</td> -<td class="tocPageNum"><a href="#img030">30</a></td> -</tr> - -<tr> -<td class="hindent">She filled Hachiya’s cup to the brim</td> -<td class="tocPageNum"><a href="#img052">52</a></td> -</tr> - -<tr> -<td class="hindent">Terumasa took hold of the man’s collar and twisted his face upwards</td> -<td class="tocPageNum"><a href="#img108">108</a></td> -</tr> - -<tr> -<td class="hindent">He raised his voice so that every word rang clear and distinct</td> -<td class="tocPageNum"><a href="#img138">138</a></td> -</tr> - -<tr> -<td class="hindent">Gonshirō threw him by a supreme effort down on to the mats</td> -<td class="tocPageNum"><a href="#img153">153</a></td> -</tr> - -<tr> -<td class="hindent">“Whose hat is that?”</td> -<td class="tocPageNum"><a href="#img217">217</a></td> -</tr> - -</tbody> -</table> - - - - -<div class="chapter"> -<p class="pagenum"><a id="Page_3"></a>[3]</p> -<h2 class="nobreak">UNGO-ZENJI</h2> -<hr class="chap x-ebookmaker-drop"> -</div> - - -<p class="drop-cap">IT was snowing fast.</p> - -<p>Already as far as eye could see the world was covered with a vast -silvery sheet. Hill and dale, tree and field, all alike clothed in -virgin white.</p> - -<p>Caring nothing for the bitter cold, but loving the beautiful, Daté -Masamuné determined to go out to enjoy the scene. Accordingly, -accompanied by a few attendants, he wended his way to a pavilion set on -a low hill in the castle grounds whence an extensive view, embracing -the whole of his little fief of Osaki, could be obtained.</p> - -<p>In later life Masamuné distinguished himself by signal service rendered -to the state, eventually becoming one of the greatest daimios in Japan, -under Iyeyasu, the first Shogun, but at this time Osaki was his sole -estate, and his income did not exceed 100,000 <i>koku</i> of rice a year.</p> - -<p>“What an enchanting picture! What can compare with a snow landscape?” -he exclaimed, as he stood enraptured, gazing with delight from the -balcony of the<span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_4"></a>[4]</span> pavilion at the pure loveliness of the scene before -him. “It is said that snow foretells a fruitful year. When the harvest -is abundant great is the rejoicing of the people, and peace and -prosperity reign over the land!”</p> - -<p>While his lordship thus soliloquized, Heishiro, the -sandal-bearer—Makabé Heishiro as he was called from his birthplace, -Makabé in Hitachi, a surname being a luxury unknown to the third -estate—waited without. Having adjusted his master’s footgear there -was nothing more to do till he should come out again. But presently -Heishiro observed that the snowflakes fell and lay somewhat thick on -his valuable charge. He hastened to brush them off with his sleeve, but -more flakes fell, and again the <i>geta</i> (clogs) were covered with icy -particles.</p> - -<p>“This will never do,” he said to himself. “His lordship disdains to -wear <i>tabi</i> (socks) even in the coldest weather, deeming it a mark of -effeminacy; should he place his bare feet on these damp <i>geta</i> he will -assuredly catch cold. I must keep them warm and dry for him.”</p> - -<p>So the good fellow in the kindness of his simple heart took up the -heavy wooden clogs, and putting them in the bosom of his garment next -to his skin, continued his patient waiting.</p> - -<p class="pagenum"><a id="Page_5"></a>[5]</p> - -<p>“His lordship comes!”</p> - -<p>Heishiro had just time to put the <i>geta</i> straight on the large stone -step at the entrance before the double doors slid open fight and left -and Masamuné appeared, young, imperious.</p> - -<p>He slipped his feet on to the <i>geta</i>. How was this? They felt warm to his -touch! How could that be in such freezing weather? There could be but -one explanation. That lazy lout of a sandal-bearer had been using them -as a seat—sitting on the honourable footgear of his august master! The -insufferable insolence, of the fellow!</p> - -<p>In a passion at the supposed insult he caught the offender by the nape -of his neck, and shook him violently, exclaiming between his set teeth, -“You scoundrel! How dared you defile my <i>geta</i> by sitting on them! You -have grossly insulted me behind my back! Villain, take that....”</p> - -<p>Catching up one of the clogs which he had kicked off, he struck the -poor servitor a heavy blow between the eyes, which caused him to -reel stunned and bleeding to the ground. Then hurling the companion -<i>geta</i> at his prostrate victim, he strode proudly back to the castle, -barefooted, for he was in too great a rage to<span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_6"></a>[6]</span> wait until another -pair of <i>geta</i> could be brought.</p> - -<p>No one stayed to look after Heishiro. None cared what became of him. -For some time he lay as he had fallen, but presently the cold brought -him back to consciousness, and he rose slowly and with difficulty to -his feet.</p> - -<p>He picked up the <i>geta</i> with which he had been struck, and with tears -mingling with the blood on his face gazed at it mournfully for a few -moments. Then, as the thought of his master’s injustice came over him, -he gnashed his teeth in impotent rage.</p> - -<p>“Haughty brute, that you are, Masamuné,” he muttered, “you shall pay -for this! The bond between us as lord and vassal has snapped for ever. -I have been one of the most devoted of your humble servants, but now -I will never rest till I have had my revenge on you for this cruel -treatment!”</p> - -<p>Then Heishiro again put the <i>geta</i> into his bosom, though with how -different an intention from before, and descending the hill on the side -furthest from the castle, limped painfully away.</p> - -<p class="tbreak">From that time forth the man had but one idea—to<span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_7"></a>[7]</span> wreak condign -vengeance on the arrogant noble who had so abused his kindness.</p> - -<p>But Masamuné was a daimio, though a poor one, while Heishiro was only -a serf. Assassination was impossible, Masamuné being always well -guarded even while he slept, besides possessing considerable bodily -strength himself. He must have recourse to other and subtler means. He -thought long and deeply. There were only two persons of higher rank -than the daimio who could affect his position at will—the Emperor and -the Shogun. But how could a man of Heishiro’s standing gain the ear of -either of these two illustrious personages so as to slander Masamuné -and influence them against him? The very idea was absurd! True, it was -a warlike age and promotion speedily followed the achievement of a -deed of valor; with a spear in his hand and a good horse under him one -might rise to almost any height. But Heishiro was no soldier and his -physical strength was small. With a sigh he admitted to himself that -the accomplishment of his purpose did not lie that way.</p> - -<p>And then a happy thought struck him. He remembered that any one, high -or low, great or small, could become a priest and that the prospects -held out in that<span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_8"></a>[8]</span> profession were boundless. There was no distinction -to which a man of the lowliest parentage and the weakest body might -not aspire. A learned priest with a reputation for sanctity might get -access to Court—gain the notice of the Emperor himself!</p> - -<p>That was it!</p> - -<p>Heishiro resolved to turn priest, and with this in view made all haste -to Kyoto, where he entered the Temple of Ungoji in Higashiyama as an -acolyte.</p> - -<p>But the career of an acolyte is none of the easiest. Before he can -be received into the priesthood he must go through all forms of -asceticism, self-denial, and penance. Furthermore, he has to serve his -superiors as a drudge, doing the most menial tasks at their command. -Heishiro had a very hard time of it. A man of ordinary perseverance -might have succumbed and given up. Not so Heishiro. Not for a moment -did he dream of abandoning his self-imposed task. He was determined as -long as there was life in him to endure every hardship and humiliation, -so that eventually he might attain his end. Still he was but human, and -there were times when his weary body almost gave way and his spirit -flagged. His racked nerves seemed as if they could bear no more. At -such times he would look in a<span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_9"></a>[9]</span> mirror at the reflection of the deep -scar on his brow, and draw from its place of concealment the odd garden -<i>geta</i>, saying to himself, “Courage! Remember Masamuné! Your work is -not done yet.”</p> - -<p>Then strength and calmness would return and he once more felt equal to -labour and endure.</p> - -<p class="tbreak">Little by little Heishiro rose in the favour of his superiors, and his -learning showed marked progress. At length, he thought he might get on -faster if he went to another monastery, and the Temple of Enryakuji on -Mt. Hiei being the largest and most renowned of all places of sacred -teaching in Japan, he applied there for admission and was readily -admitted.</p> - -<p>Twenty years later, Jōben, for that was the name Heishiro took on -entering the priesthood, was known far and near for his erudition and -strict application to all observances of a life of the most austere -piety. But he was not satisfied. He was still very far from being in -a position to attract the notice of the Emperor. Yet higher must he -climb. To be world-famous was his aim.</p> - -<p>So he made up his mind to go over to China, justly<span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_10"></a>[10]</span> regarded as the -fountain-head of all knowledge and wisdom. All she could impart of the -Buddhistic faith he would acquire. As soon as an opportunity offered -Jōben sailed from his native shores and found himself among a strange -people. Here he remained ten years. During that time he visited many -famous temples and gathered wisdom from many sources. At last the -fame of the traveller reached the ear of the Chinese Emperor, who was -pleased to grant him an audience, and graciously bestowed on him a new -sacerdotal name, that of Issan-Kasho-Daizenji. Thus it came about that -Jōben left his country acknowledged, indeed to be a wise and holy man, -but he came back to be regarded as the foremost divine in Japan.</p> - -<p>After his return Issan-Kasho-Daizenji stayed at Ungo-ji, the temple -in Kyoto where he had entered on his noviciate. He had heard nothing -of Masamuné for some years and was anxious to learn what had become -of him. He was unpleasantly surprised to hear that the object of his -hatred had also risen in the world, and that now as lord of the Castle -of Sendai he was considered one of the most important men of the -day. Not only did he hold a high office at Court, but as the head of -the North-Eastern daimios, even the Shogun<span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_11"></a>[11]</span> had to treat him with -respect. All this was annoying if nothing worse. The Zenji saw that he -would have to bide his time, and act warily. A false move now might -render futile all his long years of travail.</p> - -<p>But after all he did not have to wait very long.</p> - -<p>The Emperor was taken ill and his malady was of so serious a nature -that the skill of the wisest physicians proved of no avail. The highest -officials of the Imperial Household met in solemn conclave to discuss -the matter and it was decided that earthly means being vain the only -hope lay in an appeal to Heaven.</p> - -<p>Who was the priest of character so stainless, of wisdom so profound -that he might be entrusted with this high mission?</p> - -<p>One name rose to all lips—“Issan-Kasho-Daizenji!”</p> - -<p>With all speed, therefore, the holy man was summoned to the Palace and -ordered to pray his hardest to the Heavenly Powers for the restoration -to health of the Imperial patient.</p> - -<p>For seven days and seven nights the Zenji isolated himself from all -mankind in the Hall of the Blue Dragon. For seven days and seven nights -he fasted, and prayed that the precious life might be spared. And his -prayers were heard. At the end of that time<span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_12"></a>[12]</span> the Emperor took a turn for -the better, and so rapid was his recovery that in a very short time all -cause of anxiety about him was over.</p> - -<p>His Majesty’s gratitude knew no bounds. The Zenji was honoured with -many marks of the Imperial regard, and as a consequence, all the -ministers and courtiers vied with each other in obsequiousness to the -favourite of the Emperor. He was appointed Head of the Ungoji Temple, -and received yet another name, Ungo-Daizenji.</p> - -<p>“The attainment of my desire is now within reach!” thought the priest -exultantly. “It only remains to find a plausible pretext for accusing -Masamuné of high treason.”</p> - -<p>But more than thirty years had elapsed since Makabé Heishiro, the lowly -sandal-bearer, had vowed vengeance on the daimio Daté Masamuné, and -not without effect had been his delving into holy scriptures, his long -vigils, his life of asceticism and meditation. Heishiro had become -Ungo-Daizenji, a great priest. His character had undergone a radical -change, though he had not suspected it. His mind had been purified -and was now incapable of harbouring so mean and paltry a feeling as a -desire for revenge. Now that the power was in his grasp he no longer -cared to exercise it.<span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_13"></a>[13]</span></p> - -<p>“To hate, or to try to injure a fellow-creature is below one who has -entered the priesthood,” he said to himself. “The winds of passion -disturb only those who move about the maze of the secular world. When a -man’s spiritual eyes are opened, neither east nor west, neither north -nor south exists—such things are but illusions. I have nursed a grudge -against Lord Daté for over thirty years, and with the sole object of -revenge before my eyes have raised myself to my present position. -But if Lord Daté had not ill-treated me on a certain occasion, what -would my life have been? I should, probably, have remained Heishiro, -the sandal-bearer, all my days. But my lord had the unkindness to -strike me with a garden <i>geta</i> without troubling himself to find out -whether I deserved such chastisement. I was roused to anger and vowed -to be revenged. Because of my resolve to punish him I turned priest, -studied hard, endured privations, and so, at length, have become -one of the most influential priests in the Empire, before whom even -princes and nobles bow with reverence. If I look at the matter in its -true light it is to Lord Daté that I owe everything. In olden times -Sakya Muni, turning his back upon earthly glory, climbed Mt. Dantoku -and there served<span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_14"></a>[14]</span> his noviciate with St. Arara. Prince though he -was, he performed all menial offices for his master, who if ever the -disciple seemed negligent, would beat him with a cane. ‘How mortifying -it is,’ thought the Royal neophyte, ‘that I, born to a throne, should -be treated thus by one so far beneath me in rank,’ But Sakya Muni was -a man of indomitable spirit. The more humiliations he had to suffer -the more earnestly did he apply himself to his religious studies, so -that, at the early age of thirty he had learnt all his teacher could -impart, and himself began to teach, introducing to the world one of -the greatest religions it has ever known. It may truthfully be said -that Sakya’s success was largely, if not wholly, due to that stern -and relentless master who allowed no shirking of his work. Far be it -from me to institute any comparison between my humble self and the -holy Founder of Buddhism, but, nevertheless, I cannot deny the fact -that the pavilion in the grounds of Osaki Castle was my Mt. Dantoku, -and this old garden <i>geta</i> my St. Arara’s cane. Therefore it should be -gratitude, not revenge, that I have in my heart for Masamuné, for it -was his unconsidered act that laid the foundation of my prosperity.”</p> - -<p>Thus the good priest relinquished his long cherished<span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_15"></a>[15]</span> idea of -vengeance, and a better feeling took its place. He now looked upon -the blood-stained <i>geta</i> with reverence, offering flowers and burning -incense before it, while day and night he prayed fervently for the long -life and happiness of his old master, Lord Daté Masamuné.</p> - -<p class="tbreak">And Masamuné himself?</p> - -<p>As stated above he attained great honours and became a leading man in -the councils of his country. But at the age of sixty-three he tired of -public life and retired to pass the evening of his days at his Castle -of Sendai. Here, to employ his leisure, he set about the restoration of -the well-known temple of Zuiganji, at Matsushima, in the vicinity of -the castle, which during a long period of civil strife had fallen into -decay, being in fact a complete ruin. Masamuné took it upon himself to -restore the building to its former rich splendor, and then when all was -done looked about for a priest of deep learning and acknowledged virtue -who should be worthy to be placed in charge of it.</p> - -<p>At a gathering of his chief retainers he addressed them as follows:—</p> - -<p class="pagenum"><a id="Page_16"></a>[16]</p> - -<p>“As you know I have rebuilt and decorated the Zuiganji Temple in this -vicinity, but it still remains without a Superior. I desire to entrust -it to a holy and learned man who will carry on its ancient traditions -as a seat of piety. Tell me, who is the greatest priest of the day?”</p> - -<p>“Ungo-Zenji, High Priest of the Ungoji Temple in Kyoto is undoubtedly -the greatest priest of the day,” came the unanimous reply.</p> - -<p>So Masamuné decided to offer the vacant post to the holy Ungo-Daizenji, -but as the priest in question was a favourite at Court, and enjoyed the -confidence of the Emperor, it was necessary that His Majesty should -first be approached before anything was said to the Zenji. Masamuné -tendered his petition in due form and as a personal favour to himself. -The Emperor who retained a warm affection for the retired statesman, -readily assented, and thus it came about that Ungo-Zenji was appointed -Head of the Zuiganji Temple in the beautiful district of Matsushima.</p> - -<p>On the seventh day after his installation, Masamuné paid a formal call -at the Zuiganji to welcome the new arrival. He was ushered into the -private guest-room of the Zenji which was at the moment unoccupied. -On<span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_17"></a>[17]</span> turning to the alcove his attention was at once arrested by the -sight of an old garden <i>geta</i> placed on a valuable stand of elaborate -and costly workmanship.</p> - -<p>“What celebrated personage has used that <i>geta</i>?” said the astonished -Masamuné to himself. “But surely it is a breach of etiquette to -decorate a room with such a lowly article when about to receive a -daimio of my standing! However, the priest has doubtless some purpose -in allowing so strange an infringement of good manners.”</p> - -<p>At that moment the sliding doors opened noiselessly, and a venerable -man in full canonicals and bearing a holy brush of long white hair in -his hand, came in. His immobile face was that of an ascetic but marred -by a disfiguring scar on his forehead between the eyes.</p> - -<p>Ungo-Zenji, for he it was, seated himself opposite his guest and -putting both hands, palm downwards, on the mats bowed several times in -respectful greeting, Masamuné returning the courtesy with due ceremony.</p> - -<p>When the salutations were over, Masamuné could no longer restrain his -curiosity.</p> - -<p>“Your Reverence,” he began, “in compliance with my earnest request you -have condescended to come down to this insignificant place to take -charge of our<span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_18"></a>[18]</span> temple. I am profoundly impressed by your goodness -and know not how to thank you. I am a plain man and unskilled in words. -But, your Reverence, there are two things which puzzle me, and though -at this our first interview you may deem it a want of good breeding to -be so inquisitive, may I ask you to explain the place of honour given -to a garden <i>geta</i>, and the scar on your brow that accords so ill with -your reputation for saintliness?”</p> - -<div class="figcenter"> -<p class="center mt2"><span id="img018"> - <img src="images/ill_018.jpg" class="illowp90" alt="Masamuné and Ungo-Zenji seated on mat face each other."> -</span></p> -<p class="center caption">“May I ask you to explain the place of honour given to a -garden <i>geta</i>?”</p> -</div> - -<p class="mt2">At these words, poured out with the impetuosity he remembered in -Masamuné as a young man, the priest smiled a little. Then he withdrew -to the lower end of the apartment and with tears glistening in his -sunken eyes, said:—</p> - -<p>“How rejoiced I am to see your face again. To gaze upon your unchanged -features reminds me of the days of my long past youth.”</p> - -<p>“What, your words are strange! How can I remind you of your youth, -when, to my knowledge, we never met till this day?”</p> - -<p>“My lord, have patience, and I will explain all,” replied the Zenji. -“In those days I was but a servant—a sandal-bearer known as Makabé -Heishiro—it is not likely so humble an individual would retain a -place in<span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_19"></a>[19]</span> your memory. It was when you were residing at the Castle of -Osaki....”</p> - -<p>He paused, but Masamuné, too amazed to utter a word, only looked -intently at his former servant as if trying to recall having ever seen -him before.</p> - -<p>So Ungo-Zenji went on with his story, and in detail told all that had -befallen him since that snowy day more than thirty years before. He did -not spare himself, but told how through all those years he had been -actuated by a feeling of revenge and revenge only, and how the thought -of some day seeing his enemy in the dust had been the spur to goad him -on to conquer all difficulties, to surmount every obstacle.</p> - -<p>“At length,” concluded the priest, “I came under the notice of the -Emperor who so magnified a trifling service that he loaded me with -rewards and marks of favour. ‘Now is my time!’ I thought. But to my own -astonishment I found that so vile a passion no longer existed in my -nature—the desire for revenge had fled. I began to view the affair in -a different light, and to look upon you as my benefactor. But for you -I should still be a sandal-bearer—but for you the stores of knowledge -at my command would never have come within my reach—but for you the -intercourse I have<span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_20"></a>[20]</span> had with the illustrious and sage men of two -countries would have been an impossibility. Therefore, my hatred is -turned to gratitude, my wish for vengeance to a heartfelt desire for -your long life and prosperity. I pray daily that some day I may be -enabled in some small measure to requite the inestimable benefits I owe -to you. Your lordship now understands why I so treasure an old <i>geta</i>, -and how it is I bear this ugly scar on my brow.”</p> - -<p>Masamuné listened to the narrative with growing wonder and the deepest -attention. At its conclusion he rose and taking the Zenji by both hands -gently, but forcibly, drew him to the upper end of the apartment. When -both were again seated he spoke.</p> - -<p>“Your Reverence,” he said in a voice full of emotion. “What you have -just told me quite puts me out of countenance. I can just recall the -incident of which you speak and I remember how angry I felt at what in -my arrogance I deemed a gross insult. I do not wonder at your desire -for revenge, but, that you should renounce the triumph that was yours -for the asking—that, indeed, amazes me! Such magnanimity is almost -incredible! You prove to me that religion is not the empty abstraction -some call it, and I humbly<span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_21"></a>[21]</span> beg your pardon for my past offence, and -request you to enrol me as one of your disciples.”</p> - -<p>In this way, Masamuné who was of a frank and noble disposition repented -of the fault committed in his youth, and the sandal-bearer achieved a -greater victory than he could have boasted of had he caused his enemy -to die a shameful death.</p> - -<p>A hearty friendship sprang up between the two generous minded men, and -till death parted them many years later they saw much of each other -and their affection grew. The priest was always a welcome guest at the -Castle, while with earnest piety, Masamuné prosecuted his studies in -sacred lore under the guidance of Ungo-Zenji.</p> - - - - -<div class="chapter"> -<p class="pagenum"><a id="Page_25"></a>[25]</p> -<h2 class="nobreak">THE LOYALTY OF A BOY<br> SAMURAI</h2> -<hr class="chap x-ebookmaker-drop"> -</div> - - -<p class="drop-cap">MATSUDAIRA Nobutsuna was one of the ministers of the Shogun Iyemitsu, -next to Iyeyasu, the ablest of all the Tokugawa Shoguns. A man of great -sagacity, he contributed not a little to Iyemitsu’s wise administration.</p> - -<p>When Iyemitsu was a young boy named Takechiyo, Nobutsuna who was called -at that time Chōshirō served him as one of his attendants and playmates.</p> - -<p>One morning when the young nobleman was passing along a corridor -accompanied by Chōshirō and two other boys, on the way to the private -apartments of his father, the Shogun Hidetada, his attention was caught -by some fledgling sparrows that were hopping about and chirping gaily -on the tiles of the roof. Takechiyo, then but ten years of age, was -seized with a fancy to have them; and turning to Chōshirō, three years -older than himself, he commanded:—</p> - -<p>“Catch those little sparrows for me, Chōshirō.”<span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_26"></a>[26]</span></p> - -<p>“With pleasure, your lordship; but should I be found catching sparrows -I should be reprimanded by his Highness and the officials. Fortunately -I shall be on duty to-night; so to-night I will climb out on to the -roof when there is no one to see me, and give you the little birds in -the morning. Will you please to wait till then, my master?”</p> - -<p>“I suppose I must.” And the small company passed on.</p> - -<p class="tbreak">That night when all was quiet, Chōshirō managed somehow or other to -get out on to the roof, and crawling carefully on all fours to the -spot where the parent birds had built their nest, reached out one hand -and seized one of the little sparrows. Poor little things! Surprised -in their sleep they were not able to escape. Transferring his captive -to the left hand Chōshirō again stretched out his right and caught -another. Whether the attainment of his purpose caused him to relax his -care or for some other reason, certain it is that at this moment his -foot slipped and with a heavy thud he fell down into the court-yard -below. As he fell he involuntarily clutched the birds more firmly so -that they<span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_27"></a>[27]</span> were instantly squeezed to death. With the dead birds -in his hands, he fainted. But the roof was comparatively low, and he -also had the good fortune to fall on to some bushes so that he was not -killed as might have been the case.</p> - -<p>The sound of the fall awoke the Shogun. He started up and followed by -his consort and some attendants went out on to the verandah and opening -a sliding shutter looked down. By the light of a lantern held by one -of the servants he perceived the boy lying on the ground just beneath. -Chōshirō had now recovered consciousness and was trying to rise though -the pain he felt all over his body rendered the operation one of -considerable difficulty. His consternation was great when the light of -the lantern revealed his person to those on the verandah.</p> - -<p>“Chōshirō, is that you?” called his lord, recognizing the boy at once. -“It is strange that you should be on my roof at this time of night! -Come up instantly and explain your conduct. This must be inquired into.”</p> - -<p>The boy, still holding the dead sparrows, obeyed. Prostrating himself -before the Shogun he waited for him to speak.</p> - -<p>“What have you in your hands, Chōshirō?”</p> - -<p class="pagenum"><a id="Page_28"></a>[28]</p> - -<p>“Sparrows, my lord.”</p> - -<p>“Sparrows? Do you then climb roofs at midnight to catch sparrows? A -strange fancy!”</p> - -<p>“Yes, my lord. I will tell you the truth. When Takechiyo Sama and -I were passing along the corridor this morning his attention was -attracted by some little sparrows on the roof and we stopped to watch -them. Takechiyo Sama said ‘What dear little things they are!’ and the -desire then arose in my mind to get them for him that he might play -with them. So to-night when everyone was asleep I climbed out on to the -roof of your apartments in disregard to the respect I should have shown -to your august person, and caught two of the young sparrows. But how -quickly the punishment of Heaven followed my crime! I fell down as you -see and my wickedness was discovered. I am ready for any chastisement -your lordship sees fit to inflict.”</p> - -<p>“My lord,” here broke in Lady Eyo, the Shogun’s consort. “Excuse my -interference, but I think Takechiyo must have ordered Chōshirō to catch -these sparrows. There is no doubt about it.”</p> - -<p>It should be explained that Lady Eyo had two sons—Takechiyo and -Kunimatsu. Takechiyo, the elder, was sharp-witted and active though -rather rough in his<span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_29"></a>[29]</span> manners; his brother, on the contrary, was -quiet and effeminate. For this and probably some other unknown reason -the younger son was his mother’s favourite, and it was her desire that -he should be appointed heir to the Shogunate in place of his elder -brother. She therefore lost no opportunity to disparage Takechiyo in -the estimation of his father, hoping thereby to attain her object in -due time.</p> - -<p>“What a thoughtless boy Takechiyo is!” agreed the Shogun. “This was -undoubtedly done at his instigation. How cruel to command Chōshirō to -endanger his life by catching birds on a roof at night! Though he is -but a child there is no excuse for him. The proverb says ‘A snake bites -even when it is only an inch long.’ One who is so inconsiderate to his -attendants when young cannot be expected to govern wisely and well -when more power is invested in his hands. Now, Chōshirō,” turning to -the boy who still knelt at his feet, “Takechiyo ordered you to get the -sparrows; is it not so?”</p> - -<p>Chōshirō had heard with surprise the unkind words of the Shogun and -his lady about his adored master. What did they mean by the words “A -snake bites even when it is only an inch long?” If their feelings<span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_30"></a>[30]</span> -towards the boy were already so antagonistic what would they think and -do should the real facts of the case be disclosed? Chōshirō firmly -resolved to take all the blame even at the risk of his life.</p> - -<p>“Oh, no, my lord,” said he earnestly. “Takechiyo Sama never gave me -such a command, never! I caught these sparrows quite of my own accord. -I meant one for Takechiyo Sama, and one for myself.”</p> - -<div class="figcenter"> -<p class="center mt2"><span id="img030"> - <img src="images/ill_030.jpg" class="illowp90w" alt="Chōshirō is kneeling before Shogun."> -</span></p> -<p class="center caption">“I caught these sparrows quite of my own accord”</p> -</div> - -<p class="mt2">“Nonsense! Whatever you say I know Takechiyo is at the bottom of it. -You are a bold fellow to dare to tell me an untruth!... Let me see, -what shall I do to you?... Here, bring me one of those bags.”</p> - -<p>The Shogun pointed to some large, strong leather bags, resembling -a money-pouch in shape, in which in the event of a fire or of an -earthquake his valuables would be incased before putting them into the -<i>dozō</i> or fire-proof godown.</p> - -<p>When the bag was brought the Shogun said:—</p> - -<p>“Now, Chōshirō, if you don’t confess the truth, I will have you put -into this bag and never allow you to go home again, nor give you any -food. Do you still persist in your falsehood?”</p> - -<p>“It is no falsehood, my lord. It is the truth that I caught the -sparrows of my own wish. No one but<span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_31"></a>[31]</span> myself is responsible for my -misdeed. My fall from the roof was the punishment of Heaven. It is -right that you should chastise me also. I beg you to do so.”</p> - -<p>With these words, Chōshirō, betraying no signs of fear, put himself -into the bag.</p> - -<p>“What a stubborn boy!” exclaimed the Shogun in anger.</p> - -<p>Then with the help of his consort he tightly fastened up the bag with -the boy in it, and had it hung from a peg on the wall of the corridor. -Leaving the poor child in this state all retired once more to their -broken rest.</p> - -<p class="tbreak">Late the next morning, having had breakfast and finished her toilet, -Lady Eyo, attended by two maids of honour, came out to the corridor -where the bag still hung and ordered it to be taken down. On opening it -the boy was found still holding the dead sparrows.</p> - -<p>“Good morning, your ladyship,” said Chōshirō, rubbing his eyes with his -closed fists.</p> - -<p>“You were ordered by Takechiyo to take the sparrows, is it not so?” -said Lady Eyo kindly, hoping to make the boy confess the truth.</p> - -<p class="pagenum"><a id="Page_32"></a>[32]</p> - -<p>“No, my lady. It was my own idea. Takechiyo Sama had nothing whatever -to do with the matter.”</p> - -<p>“Come, boy, if you are so obstinate you will have to remain a prisoner -always, and never have anything to eat. But if you confess what I am -convinced is the truth, you shall be released and have food at once. -Now tell the truth.”</p> - -<p>“My lady, as you command me to do so I will tell the truth; but I am -so hungry that I find it difficult to speak at all. May I ask for some -food first? If you will allow me to have even some <i>musubi</i>,<a id="FNanchor_1" href="#Footnote_1" class="fnanchor">1</a> I will -say all you wish.”</p> - -<p>“Good boy, you shall have some <i>musubi</i> at once.”</p> - -<p>The lady gave the order and soon the boy was eagerly devouring the -rice-cakes. Three or four large ones made a good meal.</p> - -<p>“Thank you, my lady; I am now able to speak.”</p> - -<p>“Then confess the truth, good boy, confess quickly; I am tired of -waiting.”</p> - -<p>“Forgive me, my lady; I caught the sparrows of my own accord. I -received no order direct or indirect from Takechiyo Sama. That is the -truth.”</p> - -<p>The lady for once forgot herself and flew into a<span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_33"></a>[33]</span> passion. Stamping -her foot on the floor, she rushed into the Shogun’s room and gave him -an exaggerated account of what had happened. He was very angry.</p> - -<p>“The young rascal,” cried he, rising, and taking his Yoshimitsu sword -in his hand, “I will kill him myself. Tango Hasegawa, bring Chōshirō -here.”</p> - -<p>Tango found the culprit sitting in the bag his hands on his lap.</p> - -<p>“Chōshirō,” he said, “His lordship is terribly angry with you—your -stubbornness and insolence are past endurance. He intends to kill you -with his own hands. Prepare yourself for instant death!”</p> - -<p>“I am quite prepared, sir.”</p> - -<p>“Your father is my old friend,” went on the man pitifully. “If you have -any farewell message for him I will undertake to deliver it.”</p> - -<p>“Thank you, sir; but I have no words to send to my father. It is the -duty of a samurai to sacrifice his life for the sake of loyalty. After -my death my motive for refusing to confess what my lord the Shogun -desires will become clear. Tell my father only that I met my doom -fearlessly by my lord’s own sword. My one sorrow is that my mother -is now ill and this news may lead to her death also. That is my only -regret.”</p> - -<p class="pagenum"><a id="Page_34"></a>[34]</p> - -<p>“What a truly heroic resolve!” cried Tango, unable to restrain his -tears. “Your father may well be proud of you, boy, when I tell him how -you met death.”</p> - -<p>Taking Chōshirō by the hand Tango conducted him into the presence of -the Shogun and his lady. The stern noble stood up on their entrance -and laying his hand on the hilt of his sword motioned to them to -approach nearer. The brave boy kneeling down pushed the stray locks -from his neck, and with clasped hands and closed eyes calmly awaited -decapitation. The Shogun’s manly compassion was not proof against -this pathetic sight. Throwing his sword away, “Chōshirō, you are -forgiven!” he cried. “I recognize your supreme fidelity to your young -master—faithful unto death! Tango, I foretell that when Takechiyo -succeeds me as Shogun, no one will be able to assist him in the task of -ruling this people so well as this courageous young samurai. Chōshirō, -you are pardoned!”</p> - -<div class="footnote_1"> -<a id="Footnote_1" href="#FNanchor_1" class="fnanchor">1</a> -Boiled rice pressed into balls sometimes taken for a simple lunch. -</div> - - - - -<div class="chapter"> -<p class="pagenum"><a id="Page_37"></a>[37]</p> -<h2 class="nobreak">KATSUNO’S REVENGE</h2> -<hr class="chap x-ebookmaker-drop"> -</div> - -<p class="subchap">I.</p> - -<p class="drop-cap">A man and a woman were whispering to each other by a shaded lamp in -a quiet detached room which was partly hedged by <i>unohana</i> whose -snow-white flowers gleamed in the moonlight. Only the frogs croaking in -the neighbouring paddy-field broke the stillness of the night.</p> - -<p>The man was Sakuma Shichiroyemon, a councillor of Oda Nobuyuki, -the lord of the castle of Iwakura, in the province, of Owari. About -fifty-two years old, he was a fierce-looking man with powerful muscles -and bristling gray whiskers. Haughty, quick-tempered and very jealous -he tyrannized over his subordinates and was accordingly an object of -hatred throughout the clan. The person with whom he was now talking -was a woman close upon his own age—the supervisor of Lord Oda’s -maids-of-honour, by name O-Tora-no-Kata. Being a cross, cunning, -and avaricious hag, she was regarded by the maids with terror and -detestation. “Birds of a feather flock together.” She had wormed<span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_38"></a>[38]</span> -her way into the good graces of Shichiroyemon in order to make her -position secure; whilst the latter, on his part, had set her to spy on -the actions of his lord, as well as of his colleagues and inferiors.</p> - -<p>“What’s that, Madame Tora?” asked Shichiroyemon, his face reddening -with anger. “Do you mean to tell me that our lord is going to set that -green boy of a Hachiya over me as Prime Councillor?”</p> - -<p>“I repeat what I hear;—all the maids say so....”</p> - -<p>“Pshaw! How I do hate that Hachiya—that peasant’s son born in -obscurity. Who knows where he comes from? A pale, smooth-faced womanish -sprig! How glibly he flatters our lord! He has never been in battle; -what use is such a bookworm in these warlike days? And yet this -inexperienced stripling is going to be appointed Prime Councillor! -Humph, what infatuation! Ha, ha, ha!”</p> - -<p>“It will not boil yet. The fire is not strong enough.”</p> - -<p>“Eh! The fire?”</p> - -<p>“Ha, ha!” said O-Tora with a disagreeable smile. “Here I have good fuel -to make you burn!”</p> - -<p>“Don’t try to annoy me like that,” said he impatiently. “Tell me -quickly.”</p> - -<p>“It is the secret of secrets. I can’t readily ... w-e-l-l<span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_39"></a>[39]</span> ... sell -it.” She spoke slowly, with an emphasis on the word ‘sell.’</p> - -<p>“How grasping you are! Well, then, I will buy your secret with this.” -So saying, Shichiroyemon took a packet of money out of his bosom and -threw it down on the mat. The crone picked it up in silence, a cunning -smile playing about her lips.</p> - -<p>“Mr. Sakuma, you must not be off your guard.”</p> - -<p>“What do you mean?”</p> - -<p>“Well, K...; you must give her up.”</p> - -<p>“What! Give up Katsuno?” he exclaimed, startled. “Why? Tell me quick!”</p> - -<p>“Don’t be surprised, sir. It is our lord’s pleasure to give her to -Hachiya in marriage.”</p> - -<p>Katsuno was a maid-of-honour of Oda Nobuyuki with whom she was a great -favourite. A young damsel of nineteen springs, she was the incarnation -of beauty, grace and sweetness of disposition, combined with refinement -and dignity. In spite of his years Shichiroyemon was madly in love with -the fair maiden; but though he had courted her in every way through -O-Tora, she had shown no inclination to respond to his advances.</p> - -<p class="pagenum"><a id="Page_40"></a>[40]</p> - -<p>“Has Hachiya formed a liaison with Katsuno?” asked Shichiroyemon -anxiously.</p> - -<p>“Not that; you know they are both such honest blockheads; they are -too stupid for that. Even if they had the inclination, it would be -impossible for them to elude my vigilant eye—not even a devil could do -it!”</p> - -<p>“Is it then our lord’s order?”</p> - -<p>“That is it. To-day our lady said to me, ‘It is not good for Hachiya to -be alone any longer; Katsuno is a beautiful and excellent-minded maid, -I will give her in marriage to Hachiya before long in reward for her -faithful service!’ Yes, surely, our lady told me so.”</p> - -<p>“Is that indeed so?” said Shichiroyemon, his brow darkening, and his -eyes glaring with the intensity of his jealousy. “That green peasant’s -son of a Hachiya! It would be infamous to put him over a man of my -ability and experience, it would be an additional wrong to give Katsuno -to him in marriage. What an insult! What mortification to one of my -years! I cannot stand it! I shall never rest till I have taken some -steps against this Hachiya—my mortal enemy! I will have my revenge! He -does not provoke me with impunity!” He spoke so fiercely and the look -on his face was so diabolical that the old woman was frightened.</p> - -<p class="pagenum"><a id="Page_41"></a>[41]</p> - -<p>“Your anger is quite natural, sir; but you know ‘Anger leads to loss.’ -You must think more calmly about this matter.”</p> - -<p>“Have you anything to propose?”</p> - -<p>“Well, ... of course, in the first place Hachiya must be assassinated, -and then we must manage to get Katsuno out of the hands of our lord on -some pretext or other;—I will undertake <em>that</em>.”</p> - -<p>“And I will settle the other business! But, be careful, Madame Tora!”</p> - -<p>Here a puff of cool wind swept through the room and blowing out the -light of the lamp put an end to their conference for that time.</p> - -<p class="subchap">II.</p> - -<p>It was a fine afternoon in autumn; in the gardens of the castle of -Iwakura, the glowing maple leaves and vari-coloured chrysanthemums were -in the height of their beauty.</p> - -<p>To-day being the anniversary of the death of Nobuyuki’s father, all -the inmates of the castle had been busy since the early morning with -religious services, and a visit to the deceased’s grave; to-night a -banquet was to be given to all the samurai.</p> - -<p class="pagenum"><a id="Page_42"></a>[42]</p> - -<p>It was now about four o’clock, and several maids-of-honour who had -retired to a private chamber to enjoy an interval of rest were talking -volubly.</p> - -<p>“What chatterboxes you are, maids! You prattle like sparrows.” This -from O-Tora who entering at this moment made the sneering remark -that effectually put a stop to the gay talk. As she seated herself, -one of the girls, a saucy young thing, ventured to say with a demure -smile. “But, Madame, women are chatterboxes by nature, aren’t they? -‘Nightingales visit plum-blossoms’ and ‘Sparrows and tigers visit -bamboo groves’; so we chattered like sparrows hoping Madame Tora -(tiger) might be induced to come to us.”</p> - -<p>At this repartee the rest of the maids burst into peals of laughter -and even the cross-grained duenna could not refrain from a sour smile.</p> - -<p>“Your mention of sparrows reminds me of Takané (the name of a -white-eye)” said she. “It seems the bird has not uttered a note all -day. Has it been fed?”</p> - -<p>The girls started guiltily, for so busy had they been all day they -had quite forgotten to attend to the bird, a great pet with their lord -who had received it, together with other gifts, from the Shogun in -recognition of his military services. Nobuyuki dearly loved the<span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_43"></a>[43]</span> -bird for the sake of its song, in addition to which he prized it on -account of its donor.</p> - -<p>O-Tora, observing the consternation of the maids, revenged herself on -them by saying spitefully:—</p> - -<p>“You had better have kept your idle chattering till you had fulfilled -all your duties, you good-for-nothing girls.”</p> - -<p>“It is a shame to have forgotten all about the poor little bird!” said -Katsuno, who was with her companions.</p> - -<p>“Poor thing, how hungry it must be! I will go at once and give it some -food.”</p> - -<p>Stepping down into the garden, she went to an old plum-tree, and -stretching up her arms took the beautifully ornamented cage of the bird -off the branch on which it hung. As she did so the hook came off and -the cage fell to the ground, with the result that the door came open -and the little prisoner with a glad twitter escaped. With a cry of -dismay the girl ran after it, but too late; the bird had already made -its way through the trees and was now flying far away across the blue -sky rejoicing in its freedom.</p> - -<p>“What have you done, Katsuno?” cried O-Tora, from the verandah. -Inwardly glad of this golden opportunity<span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_44"></a>[44]</span> to carry out her dark -scheme of getting Katsuno into disfavour, she yet cunningly concealed -her delight under cover of fear and consternation. “Alas! You have let -Takané fly away. Dear, dear, what carelessness! How could you do it!”</p> - -<p>Katsuno, gazing up at the fast disappearing bird, seemed half -stupefied. At O-Tora’s words she came to herself, and then overwhelmed -with thought of the consequences staggered a little and fell wailing -to the ground. Her young companions standing on the verandah uttered -exclamations of amazement, but none of them came to her aid, or -attempted to console her. “What will you do, Katsuno?” continued the -old vixen, who had by this time come down to where the unhappy girl -lay, and seized her by the neck of her garment. “You know Takané is not -a common bird, but a treasured present from His Highness the Shogun. -Do you realize what you have done in letting it escape? Can you atone -for your fault simply by a few tears? What can you do to repair the -injury you have done to me, for it is I who shall be blamed,—I shall be -considered responsible for this misfortune! Come, get up, girl, what -have you to say?”</p> - -<p>“Katsuno, prepare for death!” A loud and angry<span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_45"></a>[45]</span> voice caused them -all to start. Informed of what had occurred the hot-tempered Nobuyuki -had rushed to the scene, and now with a drawn sword stood over the -prostrate girl in a passion of ungovernable rage.</p> - -<p>At this critical moment another voice was heard.</p> - -<p>“My lord, my lord, wait!” It was the new Prime Councillor, Tsuda -Hachiya, who thus ventured to interpose. “Calm yourself, my lord, I -beg you. Do you forget the day? Is it not the holy anniversary of the -demise of your revered father? Can you sully this solemn occasion with -a bloody deed committed in the heat of anger? Restrain yourself and -leave this matter to my discretion.”</p> - -<p>Nobuyuki’s rage subsided as quickly as it had risen, and his better -reason prevailed. At the remonstrance of his favourite he sheathed his -sword and retired to the verandah.</p> - -<p>By this time most of the retainers had arrived at the castle for the -evening’s banquet, and hearing of the incident hastened to the scene. -Shichiroyemon was among them and under cover of the confusion whispered -something to his accomplice,—then coming forward “How about Katsuno’s -chastisement, my lord?” he said. “You act wisely in not inflicting -death with your own<span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_46"></a>[46]</span> honourable hands, but as an apology to His -Highness the Shogun, and as an example to the clan it is necessary—it -is imperative that she should receive condign punishment.”</p> - -<p>“W-e-l-l—” Nobuyuki hesitated; then turning to Hachiya, “What is your -opinion, Hachiya? Shall I do as Shichiroyemon says?”</p> - -<p>“No, my lord. History tells that long, long ago, in the reign of the -Emperor Takakura, one cold frosty morning, some thoughtless gardeners -cut off a few branches of a beautiful maple-tree of which the young -Emperor was very fond, and burned them to warm their <i>saké</i>. Fujiwara -Nobunari, an official in charge of the tree, greatly shocked at this, -bound the offenders hand and foot and reported the matter to the -Emperor. The benevolent monarch, however, was not enraged at all, but -said calmly, “A Chinese poet sings:—</p> - -<div class="poem-container"> - <div class="poem"> - <div class="stanza"> - <div class="i0">‘In woods we gathered maple-leaves<a id="FNanchor_2" href="#Footnote_2" class="fnanchor">2</a></div> - <div class="i0">‘And burned them to warm <i>saké.</i>’</div> - </div><!--end stanza--> - </div><!--end poem--> -</div><!--end container--> - -<p class="noindent">I wonder how these humble gardeners have learned to have such a refined -taste? What a poetic idea!” Thus the Emperor acquitted the careless -gardeners. This is<span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_47"></a>[47]</span> one reason why the Emperor Takakura is revered -as a great sovereign even now after the lapse of so many centuries. So -I hope and pray that my lord who is as large-hearted as the Emperor, -will be lenient with a young girl who through no fault of her own has -been so unfortunate as to cause this accident.”</p> - -<p>“Enough, Mr. Tsuda!” broke in Shichiroyemon. “You are doubtless a great -scholar, and eloquent, but the slack measure you suggest would be a -bad precedent. You are always tender and sympathetic with women, but -in dealing with a matter such as this we must make no distinction of -sex. As well might you pardon the offender who sets fire to the castle -and reduces it to ashes, just because she is a woman and it was ‘by -mistake’! Is that justice?”</p> - -<p>“Your argument is absurd,” replied the younger man contemptuously. -“You speak as if severity were a good principle in government. If so, -why did Kings Chow and Chieh of ancient China, and the Tairas and -the Ashikagas in our own country come to such speedy ruin? Recollect -that to-day is the sacred anniversary of the demise of the father of -our lord, and therefore it might well have been our lord’s purpose to -have set the white-eye free, himself, for the peace of the<span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_48"></a>[48]</span> revered -spirit.<a id="FNanchor_3" href="#Footnote_3" class="fnanchor">3</a> The fault unintentionally committed by Katsuno has thus led -to the humane act of setting a poor caged bird at liberty. I have -somewhere read these lines:—</p> - -<div class="poem-container"> - <div class="poem"> - <div class="stanza"> - <div class="i0">‘Though one loves the sweet songs of a caged bird,</div> - <div class="i0">‘Who knows the sadness of its inner heart?’</div> - </div><!--end stanza--> - </div><!--end poem--> -</div><!--end container--> - -<p class="noindent">In my opinion Katsuno has committed no fault in the true sense of the -word, but on the contrary, done a good action.”</p> - -<p>With the exception of Shichiroyemon and O-Tora, all present listened -with admiration to the eloquent pleading of Hachiya on behalf of -Katsuno. The black-hearted pair persisted in urging the girl’s -expulsion from the castle, but Nobuyuki turned a deaf ear to their -arguments, and decided to let the matter rest. Katsuno, all this time -on her knees in the garden, now almost worshipped her deliverer in the -depth of her gratitude.</p> - -<p class="subchap">III.</p> - -<p>Tsuda Hachiya was now thirty-one. He was born the son of a farmer, -but being a handsome, well educated lad, in his sixteenth year he had -been<span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_49"></a>[49]</span> appointed to the post of page in the household of Nobuyuki who -soon began to treat him with great fondness. The young samurai devoted -his leisure hours to a further study of literature, and to the practice -of fencing; and as he speedily evinced marked administrative ability, -such as was rarely found among the intellectually ill-trained samurai -of those days, he rapidly rose in the service, until now, while still -a young man, he was both Prime Councillor and Steward, and exercised -great authority. But notwithstanding the rank and power that might well -have turned the head of one so young, he behaved modestly in public -and private, and served his lord with all faithfulness and diligence, -gaining thereby the admiration of the whole clan for his character and -virtues.</p> - -<p>One evening Hachiya presented himself before his lord at the latter’s -urgent summons.</p> - -<p>“Hachiya,” began Nobuyuki, abruptly, with a pleasant smile, “I think it -is high time for you to—, isn’t it?”</p> - -<p>“Excuse me, my lord, I do not understand you?” said Hachiya with a -puzzled look.</p> - -<p>“That important affair of yours.”</p> - -<p>“That important affair of mine?” echoed the young man more puzzled than -before.</p> - -<p class="pagenum"><a id="Page_50"></a>[50]</p> - -<p>“Ha, ha! how dull-witted you are to-day! The Katsuno affair!”</p> - -<p>Hachiya did not speak. It was not the first time that Nobuyuki, who -was enthusiastic over the question of Hachiya’s marriage, had offered -to act as middleman between him and Katsuno. Far from objecting to -the proposed bride, Hachiya’s inclination pointed that way, but his -prudence, however, had hitherto prevailed, and he remembered the saying -‘a full moon is sure to wane.’ His appointment as Prime Councillor over -the heads of older men was already calculated to give offence; should -he marry Katsuno, the acknowledged beauty of the clan, would he not -still further give cause for jealousy and ill-feeling? Moreover, he was -not ignorant of Shichiroyemon’s mad attachment, and had no desire to -provoke his resentment; therefore, on various pretexts, he had month -after month evaded his lord’s importunity.</p> - -<p>“Do you again say ‘until next month’?” said Nobuyuki, half -threateningly, as the young man remained silent. “Think not to deceive -me in that way!”</p> - -<p>Hachiya did not answer; his head was bent in respectful attention.</p> - -<p class="pagenum"><a id="Page_51"></a>[51]</p> - -<p>“Answer me at once! Still silent?... Tell me, do you dislike the girl?”</p> - -<p>“Oh, no, my lord, but I fear her refusal!”</p> - -<p>“Is that all! Set your mind at rest on that score; I have sounded her. -Poor girl! Since the white-eye incident her ‘sickness’ has become worse -and she has grown quite thin!”</p> - -<p>Observant and sympathetic, Nobuyuki had found out that Katsuno was -love-sick for Hachiya.</p> - -<p>“Do not tease me, my lord! I will tell you of my real reasons for this -hesitation.”</p> - -<p>And with this preface Hachiya gave his reasons, at each one of which -the older man gave a little nod of comprehension.</p> - -<p>“I admire your prudence and forethought,” he said when Hachiya ceased -speaking. “But remember you can never do anything if you think so much -of the feelings of others. As for that doting old Shichiroyemon, do -not fear him. I have set my heart on your happiness, and I never do -things by halves. It is my wish, also, to give Katsuno the desire of -her heart. But as it is so near the close of the year we will postpone -the marriage till the New Year, and then<span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_52"></a>[52]</span> I will listen to no more -denials. Yes, yes, that is what we will do, Hachiya.”</p> - -<p>So saying, Nobuyuki summoned a maid and in a low voice gave an order. -Presently a bottle of <i>saké</i> and some cups were brought in. Then the -<i>fusuma</i> between this and the next room was gently slid open and there -appeared a beautiful young woman clad in a gay <i>uchikaké</i> or gown, who -knelt with movements full of grace on the threshold. It was none other -than Katsuno.</p> - -<p>“What is your pleasure, my lord?” said she bowing reverently first to -Nobuyuki and then to Hachiya.</p> - -<p>“Ah, is it Katsuno? I want you to serve us with <i>saké</i>. Sit nearer to -me, Hachiya; come, let us have some <i>saké</i>.”</p> - -<p>“Excuse me, my lord. Something tells me I am needed at home; besides it -is getting late. With your kind permission, I will go home at once.”</p> - -<p>“No, no; not just yet, Hachiya. Though it is late no loved one is -waiting for your return, I imagine. Ha, ha! Come, you cannot refuse. -Katsuno, pour him out a cup of <i>saké</i>!”</p> - -<div class="figcenter"> -<p class="center mt2"><span id="img052"> - <img src="images/ill_052.jpg" class="illowp90w" alt="Katsuno is filling cup"> -</span></p> -<p class="center caption">She filled Hachiya’s cup to the brim</p> -</div> - -<p class="mt2">Katsuno hesitated bashfully, but on Nobuyuki’s repeating his command, -she took the bottle, and with a<span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_53"></a>[53]</span> hand that trembled filled Hachiya’s -cup to the brim. Their eyes met and both blushed consciously.</p> - -<p>“If you have drunk, let Katsuno have the cup,” said Nobuyuki.</p> - -<p>“I should return the cup to your lordship.”</p> - -<p>“No, I will have it after her. Give it to Katsuno.”</p> - -<p>Hachiya had no choice but to do as he was told, and accordingly offered -the cup, into which he had poured more <i>saké</i>, to the maid-of-honour, -who overcome with shyness, took and sipped it with difficulty.</p> - -<p>“Give it to me.”</p> - -<p>Nobuyuki drank off three cupfuls and then said with a sly laugh:—</p> - -<p>“I am mightily glad you have thus exchanged the wine-cups of betrothal! -Ha, ha! You have my hearty congratulations!”</p> - -<p>The young lovers prostrated themselves in acknowledgment of his favour, -but even as they did so the loud clang, clang of the alarm-bell broke -the stillness of the night and caused them all to start up to listen.</p> - -<p>“What can it be?” exclaimed Hachiya, opening the <i>shōji</i> to look out. -No need to ask that question; the lurid sky, the quickly rising flames -and showers of falling sparks proclaimed all too surely a house on fire!</p> - -<p class="pagenum"><a id="Page_54"></a>[54]</p> - -<p>“A fire, my lord! And not more than five <i>chō</i> beyond the pine-trees on -the bank of the moat. I must go at once!”</p> - -<p>“No doubt as to its being a fire,” said Nobuyuki looking out also. “Is -it not in your direction?”</p> - -<p>“Allow me to leave your presence; I fear it is as you say!”</p> - -<p>“Then lose no time! I will give the necessary instructions to the -Fire-Commissioner myself.”</p> - -<p>With a hurried word of thanks and apology to his lord and Katsuno, -Hachiya left the apartment and ran home at the top of his speed. A -fierce wind had arisen and whistled through the branches of the tall -old pine-trees; louder and louder clanged the iron-throated bell.</p> - -<p>His fears were all too surely realised: he reached his home only to -find it wrapped in flames! A detached room where he had been wont to -study was already reduced to ashes and the fire had caught on to the -main building. The trees in the garden were also burning and as the -wind shook the branches they let fall a shower of sparks. A number of -samurai and firemen were doing their utmost with squirts and rakes -to get the fire under, but against the fierce flames<span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_55"></a>[55]</span> fanned to -fury by the strong wind their efforts were of little avail. Hachiya -involuntarily heaved a deep sigh of despair, but there was no time -to delay. It was imperative that he should venture into the burning -building and save, if possible, important documents and ancestral -treasures, as well as some highly valued gifts he had received from his -lord.</p> - -<p>As he rushed through the front gate a dark form sprang from the shade -of a great pine-tree and plunged a sword into his side. Before Hachiya -could draw his own weapon the assassin gave him another thrust through -the heart, and the young Councillor fell lifeless to the ground.</p> - -<p>The charred body of the hapless samurai was found in the ashes of his -ruined home.</p> - -<p class="subchap">IV.</p> - -<p>On hearing of Hachiya’s death, Nobuyuki clenched his teeth, and Katsuno -was beside herself with grief.</p> - -<p>A dagger—an excellent blade by Masamuné—was found near the body. Seeing -it, Nobuyuki slapped his thigh in delighted recognition, for it was a -well-known weapon which his elder brother Nobunaga, Lord of Owari, had -given to the elder brother of Shichiroyemon,<span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_56"></a>[56]</span> Gemba Morimasa, one -of Nobunaga’s councillors. Except Morimasa nobody could have had it -but Shichiroyemon; therefore, Nobuyuki who knew of the terms between -his two followers, had no doubt but that his favourite councillor had -fallen a victim to the jealous malignancy of the man he had superseded -both in the favour of their master, and in the affection of the girl -on whom he had set his heart. Added to this, a man who had been -arrested on suspicion on Hachiya’s premises the night of the fire, -confessed after a strict examination that it was at the instigation of -Shichiroyemon that he had set fire to the house.</p> - -<p>Evidence of his guilt being so strong, some sheriffs were despatched -to Shichiroyemon’s residence to arrest him; but the wily scoundrel -scenting danger had fled, and it was not till after a rigorous search -that it was found that he had taken refuge in the neighbouring province -of Mino in the castle of Inaba, belonging to Saitō Dōzō.</p> - -<p>O-Tora-no-Kata also disappeared about this time, and rumour had it that -she was now in the mansion of Gemba Morimasa.</p> - -<p class="tbreak">It was the seventh of January, and most people were<span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_57"></a>[57]</span> enjoying the -New Year festivities. But to Nobuyuki, the season brought no joy; he -still brooded over Hachiya’s tragic end. Buried in thought as he leant -on his arm-rest, he did not notice the entrance of Katsuno, still pale -and emaciated she knelt before him.</p> - -<p>“Ah, Katsuno, I am glad to see you,” he said, “I was thinking of -Hachiya, and of your great grief in losing your future husband just -after you had exchanged the cups of betrothal. I feel for you with all -my heart!”</p> - -<p>“Thank you, my lord,” she replied sadly. “You are too good to me!”</p> - -<p>“It is natural you should grieve,” went on Nobuyuki, after a pause. -“But mere sorrowing does no good to any one. Far wiser would it be to -devise some way to kill the base assassin and avenge Hachiya with all -speed.”</p> - -<p>“You are right, my lord,—I think my husband in Hades would be pleased -to know that your lordship is willing to do so much for his honour. May -I ask what is the result of your negotiations with His Excellency, the -Lord of Owari?”</p> - -<p>Nobuyuki’s brother, the Lord of Owari, being the son-in-law of Saitō -Dōzō, Nobuyuki had requested his brother to arrange for the delivery of -Shichiroyemon,<span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_58"></a>[58]</span> but Dōzō had ill-naturedly refused.</p> - -<p>“This puts difficulties in our way,” concluded the old lord -disconsolately.</p> - -<p>“I have a favour to ask of your lordship; may I venture to speak?”</p> - -<p>“By all means.”</p> - -<p>“Permit me to go to Inaba, my lord.”</p> - -<p>“To Inaba! You want to go to the castle of that Saitō Dōzō?”</p> - -<p>“Yes, my lord. I wish to enter the castle in disguise, and avenge the -death of Hachiya on his murderer!”</p> - -<p>“Not to be thought of, Katsuno!” Nobuyuki could not keep back a smile, -though he saw the girl was in deadly earnest. “A young woman, and -single handed!—absurd!”</p> - -<p>“Not so, my lord, believe me!” Katsuno’s eyes gleamed, and her breath -came quick and fast. “I have thought it all out. I beseech you to let -me go!”</p> - -<p>Nobuyuki argued with her in vain. Her mind was made up, and nothing -could shake her resolution. Therefore, he at length reluctantly gave -her the desired permission, at the same time handing her the Masamuné -dagger, to which reference has been made before, and saying:—</p> - -<p class="pagenum"><a id="Page_59"></a>[59]</p> - -<p>“This is the dagger with which our Hachiya was stabbed; thrust it up to -the hilt in the throat of his murderer, and avenge his death!”</p> - -<p>“I will, or die in the attempt! My lord, I thank you, farewell, -fare....”</p> - -<p>A burst of tears choked her utterance; she hastened from the room.</p> - -<p>“May you have all success,” said Nobuyuki, as she disappeared, and then -he returned to his thoughts.</p> - -<p class="subchap">V.</p> - -<p>In the guise of a merchant’s wife, and assuming a false name, Katsuno -journeyed to the castle-town of Inaba, and taking up her abode at the -house of an uncle who was a farmer living in a village close to the -town, watched for an opportunity to achieve her purpose.</p> - -<p>One day, Yoshitatsu, the son of Saitō Dōzō, returning from hunting, -stopped to rest at the farm-house. Katsuno waited upon him and served -him with tea. Her beauty and grace of manner attracted the attention -of the young nobleman. In reply to his inquiries Katsuno’s uncle told -him that she had recently lost her husband, a merchant, and that she -was anxious to enter<span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_60"></a>[60]</span> the service of a daimio’s lady. Yoshitatsu -undertook to engage her as maid-of-honour to his mother, and his offer -was immediately accepted with joy. She was soon an inmate of the -castle, where her faithful service pleased her mistress so much that -she speedily became a great favourite.</p> - -<p class="tbreak">A warm spring day, with the delicate blossoms of the cherry-trees -filling all the land with their beauty, and the faint sweetness of -their perfume. Since dawn a large number of workmen had been busily at -work sweeping the courtyard of the castle, and spreading clean sand -over it. Some important function must be on hand. Katsuno wondered what -it was.</p> - -<p>“Excuse my curiosity, my lady,” she said as she served her mistress -with a cup of tea, “but for what are those men making such great -preparations? Is anything going to take place?”</p> - -<p>“Don’t you know? To-morrow there will be matches of mounted archery.”</p> - -<p>“Mounted archery, my lady? What is that?” asked Katsuno, feigning -ignorance.</p> - -<p>“All the samurai who are skilled in archery will<span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_61"></a>[61]</span> practise the art -on horseback.”</p> - -<p>“Are many coming, my lady?” asked Katsuno, her heart beating high with -the hope that at last she might meet her enemy.</p> - -<p>“About a hundred, I believe, to take part in the competition, and of -course, all the samurai of our clan with their families will be present -to look on.”</p> - -<p>“Who are the archers?”</p> - -<p>“Why do you ask?”</p> - -<p>Katsuno was embarrassed for a moment, but quickly regaining her -presence of mind, she replied:—</p> - -<p>“For no special reason, my lady; but my father, though only a farmer, -was very fond of archery, and so, from a child, I have been interested -in the sport.”</p> - -<p>“Ah, I see. Well, they brought me a programme of the day’s events -this morning; here it is; you can see the names of the archers for -yourself.” The lady handed Katsuno a sheet of soft, thick paper covered -with bold, black characters. With an eagerness she strove to conceal, -she ran her eyes down the lines, till near the middle of the page she -found the name “Sakuma Shichiroyemon” At last! This was the time for -which she had waited and planned.</p> - -<p>“All the archers seem to be good samurai. What<span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_62"></a>[62]</span> a splendid sight -they will present! How I should like to see the sport, even from a -distance.”</p> - -<p>“There should be no difficulty about that. You have my permission.”</p> - -<p>“My lady, I am deeply grateful.” She could say no more, but such was -the state of her feelings that it was with difficulty she performed her -usual duties that day, nor could she sleep at all at night.</p> - -<p class="subchap">VI.</p> - -<p>The following day the weather continued to be all that could be -desired. The wide courtyard was duly prepared. The centre was enclosed -for the list in the shape of an oblong square, and temporary stands had -been erected all round it to accommodate the spectators; these were -covered with gay carpets and soft cushions which gave colour to the -scene. A dais in the very centre of the gallery on the eastern side -of the lists and at a convenient distance from the target, was richly -decorated with hangings of purple and white silk, which fluttered -gently in the breeze. This was the place of honour for Lord Saitō and -his family.</p> - -<p>From early in the morning, samurai after samurai began to arrive at -the castle, and soon every stand was<span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_63"></a>[63]</span> crowded. The lord of the -castle accompanied by his family and attended by a numerous retinue -of councillors, pages, and maids-of-honour, presently appeared, and -in great state seated himself in the place prepared for him. Katsuno, -gaily dressed, her face powdered and painted in the usual fashion, and -the Masamuné dagger concealed in the bosom of her garments, was among -this company, and avoiding the attention of the others, eagerly awaited -her opportunity.</p> - -<p>“To-day, or never,” she thought to herself. “If I let such a golden -opportunity pass, I shall never get another! Dearest Hachiya, look at -me from Hades! I will avenge your death before the sun sets!” Then -clasping her hands she murmured a prayer, “Oh, Hachiman, God of War, -favour me with success!”</p> - -<p>When those about to take part in the competitions were ready, the -umpire, the herald, the signalman and the registrar, all betook -themselves to their respective stations; a large drum being then loudly -beaten to announce that the tournament was about to begin.</p> - -<p>One after another, the archers clad in <i>kosodé</i> (silk underclothes), -<i>hitataré</i> (court robes), and <i>mukabaki</i> (breeches), came forth on -horseback into the lists and rode to and fro, till coming to the -appointed spot from<span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_64"></a>[64]</span> which to aim, they shot their arrows at the -mark. The judge, or umpire, would then after a careful examination -give his decision, the herald would loudly proclaim the name of the -archer and his achievement, while the registrar would make a written -record. Then it was the part of the signalman to announce the event -to the spectators, who raised such shouts of applause that one might -almost fancy the petals of the cherry-blossoms fell in showers from the -vibration in the air.</p> - -<p>So archer after archer exhibited his skill, until now it was the turn -of “No. 53” Sakuma Shichiroyemon. Katsuno, who had been impatiently -awaiting her chance, and whose nerves were strained to the utmost, -involuntarily grasped the dagger in her bosom.</p> - -<p>Shichiroyemon rode out slowly, but as soon as he had bowed low to his -lord, put spurs to his horse and dashed swiftly forward.</p> - -<p>In her nervous excitement Katsuno pushed forward and straightening -herself assumed the attitude necessary to cut at her enemy as he -came up to the dais. In so doing she touched her mistress’s shoulder -and shrank back inadvertently, but the next moment she again pressed -forward and stood ready.</p> - -<p class="pagenum"><a id="Page_65"></a>[65]</p> - -<p>Shichiroyemon galloped up with the speed of lightning, the horse’s mane -touched the railing of the gallery, but before the girl could act was -far out of her reach.</p> - -<p>With an exclamation of dismay she stood looking after him.</p> - -<p>“What is the matter with you, Katsuno?” said Lady Saitō, displeased at -the want of manners in her favourite maid.</p> - -<p>Recalled to herself the girl forced a laugh but replied readily enough:—</p> - -<p>“Forgive my rudeness, my lady! In my admiration of the heroic sport I -forgot myself.”</p> - -<p>“You are indeed fond of archery!”</p> - -<p>“Yes, my lady, there is nothing I like so well.”</p> - -<p>“A strange taste for a girl!” said her mistress looking curiously at -her. “But the excitement is too much for you; you are pale and your -eyes are bloodshot. Have you a headache?”</p> - -<p>“No, your ladyship, but I did not sleep last night.”</p> - -<p>“Are you not well?”</p> - -<p>“I am quite well; it was the thought of to-day’s pleasure that kept me -awake.”</p> - -<p>“What a passionate lover of archery!” said the lady<span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_66"></a>[66]</span> laughing, and -Katsuno flushed at her mocking tone.</p> - -<p>The performance of the various numbers on the programme required many -of the archers to appear several times in the lists, Shichiroyemon -among them. Every time he rode forth Katsuno eagerly watched for her -chance, but to her intense mortification it nearly always happened that -his horse was on the opposite side of the lists; and the few occasions -on which he approached close enough to where she waited, he dashed -past so swiftly she was unable to do anything. She wondered if her -enemy had recognised her and was on his guard. She suffered an agony of -impatience and fear, and almost gave up in despair.</p> - -<p>The programme had been duly gone through, and there now remained only -the final ceremony of <i>nanori</i> or “declaring of names.” How would this -be performed? she wondered. She feared it would not bring Shichiroyemon -within her reach. Should she rush desperately into the lists and -kill him there in the midst of his compeers? No, that would be too -hazardous; should she fail her chance would be gone for ever. On the -other hand if she let slip this opportunity was it likely she would -ever get another? And she must decide quickly.</p> - -<p class="pagenum"><a id="Page_67"></a>[67]</p> - -<p>While Katsuno agonized thus, the ceremony had commenced. Each archer in -his turn rode up to the dais, bowed reverentially to his liege lord, -declared his name, and slowly withdrew. Quickly making up her mind she -braced herself for action.</p> - -<p>The day had advanced and it was now the middle of the afternoon. The -cherry-blossoms hung still in the bright sunshine, for the air had not -movement enough to stir even their delicate petals. A langour seemed -to have fallen on all and even the spectators showed signs of fatigue. -Only Katsuno was keenly on the alert!</p> - -<p>“No. 53!” At the call Shichiroyemon leapt on his horse, pausing a -moment to arrange the harness. A swift glance at him as he sat in the -full blaze of the sun showed Katsuno that he was splendidly arrayed -in a white <i>kosodé</i>, covered with a design of nightingales perched -on plum-trees. With bow and arrows in his hand, and mounted on a -snow-white steed he made a gallant show, his bronze complexion and -bushy whiskers adding to his grim and warlike appearance. Katsuno -gnashed her teeth.</p> - -<p>After riding three times round the lists Shichiroyemon suddenly -tightened the reins and caused his horse to stop before the dais. Then -slowly riding up to the<span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_68"></a>[68]</span> foot of the gallery he bowed low, as in a -clear voice he proclaimed his name. This moment, as he was about to -withdraw, was Katsuno’s opportunity. Slipping off her upper garment she -was on the step before any one could stop her.</p> - -<p>“Well met, Sakuma Shichiroyemon. I am the wife of Tsuda Hachiya whom -you foully murdered! Taste the sharpness of my revenge!”</p> - -<p>With these words she thrust the dagger into his side with all her -strength. So sudden was the attack, and such the force lent her by -desperation, that, strong man though he was, Shichiroyemon fell forward -from his saddle to the ground. With the cry “Hachiya is avenged!” she -gave him another thrust which proved mortal.</p> - -<p>A white petal wafted by the breeze fluttered softly on to the -blood-stained dagger, and for a while all who witnessed the scene were -speechless with horror.</p> - -<p class="subchap">VII.</p> - -<p>Saitō Dōzō, in his admiration of Katsuno’s heroic deed, had it in his -mind to save the girl from the consequences of her rash action; but as -a samurai it did not accord with his honour to do so. This for two<span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_69"></a>[69]</span> -reasons; one being that he had refused to deliver up Shichiroyemon when -asked to do so by Nobuyuki; and the other because it was a disgrace to -him personally that a warrior under his protection should have been -killed by a woman. Therefore, he gave orders for the close confinement -of the culprit, directing that she should be strictly watched and -guarded night and day.</p> - -<p>Now that she had accomplished her long-cherished desire, and had sent -word to that effect to Lord Nobuyuki, Katsuno no longer had anything to -trouble her, and awaited her sentence with a tranquil mind.</p> - -<p>One evening she was arranging some wisteria flowers which had been -brought to her by one of the samurai, appointed to keep guard over her, -when without any announcement Lady Saitō came into her room.</p> - -<p>“How tastefully you have arranged those flowers, Katsuno!” she said. -“Have you recovered yourself?”</p> - -<p>The girl smiled.</p> - -<p>“Yes, thank you, my lady; having attained my object, I have nothing -left to wish for, and am ready to meet my fate.”</p> - -<p>“You are a pattern of womanhood! How I admire you! It is unbearable -that one so virtuous should be subjected to the ignominy of -imprisonment for so long.<span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_70"></a>[70]</span> I have repeatedly implored my lord for -your release, but as yet without avail.”</p> - -<p>“You are too good; but I have no hope of release, and I am ready to -die.”</p> - -<p>“Your death would serve no end, and I do not intend to let your life be -sacrificed. Listen,” she came nearer and whispered in Katsuno’s ear, “I -have managed to get your guard sent away on some pretext, and to-night, -Katsuno, you shall escape.”</p> - -<p>“Indeed, no, my lady; that cannot be! I am quite prepared for death. -Without Hachiya my life is nothing to me, and should his lordship -discover what you had done his wrath would be terrible,—What might he -not do to you!”</p> - -<p>“Have no fears on that point. It is not likely my lord will suspect -that I had any hand in your escape, but at the worst he will not kill -me. Do not think of me, but fly!”</p> - -<p>“But, my lady,...”</p> - -<p>“Oh, how obstinate you are! Why will you throw your life away? Katsuno, -as your mistress, I command you to escape this night!”</p> - -<p>Seeing her mistress would take no refusal the girl gave in, and they -proceeded to discuss plans.</p> - -<p class="pagenum"><a id="Page_71"></a>[71]</p> - -<p>“And when you are safe, Katsuno, how will you spend your life?”</p> - -<p>“I shall become a nun and spend my life praying to Buddha for the peace -of my dead husband’s soul.”</p> - -<p>“An admirable resolve, but foolish! Have you no love for your -parents?—for your family and home? Ah, forgive me, your parents and -brothers are dead? I did not mean to cause you pain. But do you not see -that in that case it is impossible for you to give yourself up to a -life of devotion? Who then could carry on the family name?”</p> - -<p>“But, your ladyship, I became the wife of Hachiya....”</p> - -<p>“Yes, yes, but you were only betrothed! If you had married him really, -the case would be different,—an engagement is nothing. No other -woman would have considered it necessary to avenge his death. Your -faithfulness has been demonstrated by your heroic deed. Your devotion -will be handed down to posterity as a model for all wives to admire and -emulate, but now that is over; other duties remain.”</p> - -<p>“What would you have me do, my lady?”</p> - -<p>“You must marry.”</p> - -<p>“A second marriage!”</p> - -<p class="pagenum"><a id="Page_72"></a>[72]</p> - -<p>“No, a first; as you told me yourself you were never married to -Hachiya, so who can blame you or call you a faithless wife if you -contract a marriage with another man? Even Hachiya in the spirit world -would approve of it.”</p> - -<p>Katsuno thought over these words. It was true according to the ideas -in which she had been brought up that it was her duty not to let her -family name die out.</p> - -<p>“You are right,” she said at length. “If I escape I will not refuse to -marry.” But she sighed, for her heart was with Hachiya.</p> - -<p>“I was sure you would be sensible. And now hear what I have to say; a -near relative of mine, Ōsuga Katsutaka, a retainer of Lord Tokugawa of -Mikawa province is looking for a wife. He is only twenty-seven, yet -he is distinguished for his scholarship, bravery and above all his -military achievements. He has a great future before him, and, what -counts with a woman before all things, he has very good looks! Will you -marry him? I have already sounded him on the subject and he is anxious -you should be his wife. Do not reject such a good offer.”</p> - -<p>Katsuno was silent, partly because of maiden modesty,<span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_73"></a>[73]</span> and partly -because it was too momentous a question to be decided without due -consideration.</p> - -<p>“Why do not you answer? What is your objection? I assure you that Ōsuga -is every thing that can be desired; you would never regret marrying -him—he is so brave and learned! But what is most important in your -case, if you have two or three children by him you can adopt one of -them to succeed to your father’s house and carry on the family name.”</p> - -<p>“I am deeply grateful to you for all your kindness, my lady. I will do -as you advise; you are wiser than I, and you know what is best.”</p> - -<p>“Then you agree? That is right, you are a good girl, Katsuno, and -deserve to be happy, as I know you will be with Ōsuga. But it is -getting very late and it is time you went. A palanquin is ready with -ten strong footmen to convey you to the home of Ōsuga. I am sorry to -part from you but it has to be, Farewell.”</p> - -<p>As she spoke, Lady Saitō handed Katsuno a letter addressed to Ōsuga -Katsutaka, and a packet of money for her travelling expenses. The -girl accepted them with many thanks, and bidding farewell to her -mistress made her way to the postern gate from whence she<span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_74"></a>[74]</span> safely -effected her escape from the castle arriving at her destination without -adventure.</p> - -<p class="subchap">VIII.</p> - -<p>Ōsuga Katsutaka married Katsuno with the hearty approval of his lord, -Tokugawa Iyeyasu, who greatly struck with admiration of the girl’s -heroic deed, readily promised to accord her his special protection.</p> - -<p>On hearing of this, Shichiroyemon’s brother Gemba Morimasa, a -well-known warrior, who had won for himself the nickname of Gemba the -Tiger, clenched his teeth in wrath and mortification, and going to his -lord, Nobunaga, gave him a minute account of all that had happened, -requesting him to take immediately some steps to wrest Katsuno from -Iyeyasu’s hand.</p> - -<p>“If this be left undone,” he continued fiercely, “my brother’s spirit -will never be at peace, nor will my outraged feelings allow me to rest. -You must see this, my lord.”</p> - -<p>“Calm yourself, Morimasa. You speak wildly.”</p> - -<p>“Who could help it, my lord! Just think of the case! Not only was -my brother murdered by a mere woman, but she, my mortal enemy, has -been taken under the protection of a powerful noble, so that I am<span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_75"></a>[75]</span> -powerless to touch her! If I allow the matter to stand my reputation as -a warrior will be compromised. If you decline to interfere, I will go -myself and negotiate with Lord Tokugawa. At least you will allow me to -do that!”</p> - -<p>“If you are so set upon it, I will see what I can do,” said Nobunaga, -reluctantly; and he accordingly sent a warrior to Iyeyasu to request -the delivery of Katsuno.</p> - -<p>Iyeyasu readily granted the messenger an interview, but after listening -to what he had to say, replied bluntly:—</p> - -<p>“I am sorry, but I cannot consent. Katsuno is a heroine, and such a -woman as is rarely found in Japan. To speak frankly, Shichiroyemon did -not behave well. I understand that because Katsuno would have nothing -to say to him, and because Hachiya, to whom she was affianced, was -a favourite with his lord, Shichiroyemon, out of a mean jealousy, -unworthy of a samurai, caused his house to be set on fire and himself -to be assassinated. In my opinion,—in the opinion of all right-minded -men, he richly deserved his fate, and it was fitting he should die as -he did. What can his brother urge in extenuation of his crime? His -demand is preposterous!<span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_76"></a>[76]</span> Think of Katsuno! For the sake of a man to -whom she was merely betrothed, she boldly avenged his death, stabbing -a strong warrior in the midst of a large concourse. What courage! It -might well put a man to shame! And this heroic woman comes to me for -protection, honouring me by her confidence! Do you imagine I will give -her up? Never! Tell your lord that Iyeyasu is not one to betray his -trust, and that he emphatically refuses to deliver up this brave woman -to her enemies.”</p> - -<p>There was nothing more to be said. The messenger returned to his -lord and gave the answer he had received. Nobunaga admitted its -reasonableness, and not even the hot-tempered Morimasa could deny its -truth. But being of a stubborn and revengeful nature, he brooded over -his grievance, and secretly schemed or the attainment of his purpose.</p> - -<p class="tbreak">One fine autumn day Katsuno, attended by a maid, was strolling in the -grounds at the back of her residence. Sweet and beautiful she looked, -with the calm happiness of a contented young wife. To the west of the -garden were to be seen the quarters of her husband’s retainers, and -the twang of bowstrings accompanied by the<span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_77"></a>[77]</span> whistling arrows showed -that the samurai were strenuously practising their archery. A grove -of maple-trees bounded the east, and their red leaves effectively -contrasted with the dark green of their background. In front, to -the south, the view led across paddy-fields to the tall black pines -enclosing the precincts of the village shrine. A few little birds -flitting here and there, and softly twittering, gave life to the scene.</p> - -<p>Standing by a pond in the garden Katsuno was idly throwing some food -to the carp which came at her call, when the little gate that gave -entrance to the grounds suddenly opened, and an elderly woman came in.</p> - -<p>“I am glad to see you, Miss Katsuno, nay, I should say Mrs. Ōsuga,” -said the newcomer bowing politely.</p> - -<p>“Madame O-Tora!” exclaimed Katsuno, in surprise, quite taken aback by -this unexpected visitation. “Is it indeed you? I am very glad to see -you, it is long since I had that pleasure. How did you find your way -here?”</p> - -<p>“By a mere chance,” replied the elder woman, smiling as though -overjoyed at the meeting, and speaking in propitiatory tones. “As I was -passing along this lane I happened to glance through the hedge and to -my great astonishment and joy recognised you in the<span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_78"></a>[78]</span> garden. What a -happy home you have! I could envy you your good fortune!”</p> - -<p>Katsuno made no reply to her honeyed speech, but asked curtly:—</p> - -<p>“How do you <i>happen</i> to be in these parts? Have you come to live here?”</p> - -<p>“That is a long story,” said O-Tora in an agitated manner. “I can’t -tell it in a few words. I cannot stop to tell you to-day, but I will -come again soon when I have more time to spare and tell you all about -it. Now I must say Good-bye.”</p> - -<p>“Where are you staying?”</p> - -<p>“Not far from here ... but I’ll come again soon.... Good-bye!”</p> - -<p>And she hurried away. Katsuno stood gazing after her retreating figure -with an expression of mingled wonder and doubt, when suddenly from the -grove of maples an arrow whizzed past and grazing her sash pierced the -<i>shōji</i> of the samurai’s rooms. Instantly an uproar arose, but before -anything could be done another arrow whistled through the still air. -Quick to think and act, Katsuno flung herself on to the ground but her -maid, too much alarmed to move, stood upright where she was.</p> - -<p class="pagenum"><a id="Page_79"></a>[79]</p> - -<p>By this time the young samurai had rushed forth with loud shouts.</p> - -<p>“The villain is hiding behind the maples,” cried Katsuno. “Do not let -him escape, quick, quick!”</p> - -<p>With drawn swords the party dashed into the grove, scattering the red -leaves as they pushed through.</p> - -<p class="subchap">IX.</p> - -<p>While this was occurring, Katsuno’s husband was away from home -having gone up to the castle on duty. Two ruffians were caught, but -unfortunately the samurai, being unacquainted with O-Tora’s personality -and evil intentions, did not think of trying to seize her also, though -it would have been quite easy as she ran wildly hither and thither in -her bewilderment and alarm.</p> - -<p>Closely questioned, the men confessed that they were spies, and had -been hired by Gemba Morimasa to assassinate Katsuno, O-Tora being decoy.</p> - -<p>Iyeyasu, in righteous anger, caused them to be decapitated, and their -heads were exposed in front of one of the castle gates with a notice -which ran as follows:—</p> - -<p>“These villains, on a strict examination, confessed that at the -instigation of Sakuma Gemba Morimasa, a<span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_80"></a>[80]</span> high retainer of Oda -Nobunaga, they had come disguised to our castle-town with intent to -murder. However, it may be that they were common thieves and only made -up the above story to conceal their mean purposes. Therefore, we have -judged them as thieves, and expose their heads accordingly.”</p> - -<p>At the failure of his plans, Morimasa flew into a terrible passion; nor -could Nobunaga allow the matter to pass without notice. He despatched a -messenger to Iyeyasu with a protest, to which he received the following -reply:—</p> - -<p>“If an honourable samurai of Gemba Morimasa’s rank and position really -intended to take his revenge on an enemy he would have come openly and -in person. He would not intrust so important a task to low nameless -assassins! He could not so debase his honour! This was an act worthy of -a peasant, a mere tradesman, or a <i>rōnin</i>. So I concluded that those -men were common thieves and in that supposition caused that notice to -be written. Can Lord Oda say anything against it?”</p> - -<p>What could Nobunaga or Morimasa urge against this temperate reply? They -could not confess that the would-be murderers were indeed what they had -said,<span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_81"></a>[81]</span> and not the thieves that Iyeyasu affected to believe them. -Thus were they again baffled. But Nobunaga was exceedingly enraged and -determined to go to war with Iyeyasu in order to wipe out his disgrace. -He diligently set about his preparations.</p> - -<p>It was not difficult to foretell the issue of a struggle between the -rival lords; Iyeyasu, with his small following, had no chance against -his more powerful enemy. Katsuno was in despair. It was all through -her that this danger threatened Lord Tokugawa, it was because he -had refused to give her up that all this trouble had come. She had -forfeited her life by her act of vengeance at the castle of Inaba, and -but for the mercy of Lady Saitō she would have died long before. Though -her husband loved her devotedly and she was not unhappy, still she had -no desire to live, and if she were to die, there would no longer be any -object in commencing a disastrous war. Therefore she would die.</p> - -<p>In the silent watches of a winter’s night when the silver moon flooded -all the land with quiet beauty, Katsuno rose from her bed and with a -dagger put an end to her life,—in the flower of her womanhood, at the -age of twenty-two!</p> - -<p>Katsuno left behind her four long letters addressed<span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_82"></a>[82]</span> respectively to -Iyeyasu, her husband, Katsutaka, Lady Saitō, and her former lord, Oda -Nobuyuki, giving the reason for her rash act, and repeatedly thanking -them for all their kindness.</p> - -<div class="footnote_1"> -<a id="Footnote_2" href="#FNanchor_2" class="fnanchor">2</a> -Lines by Hakkyoi, a great poet of ancient China. -</div> - -<div class="footnote"> -<a id="Footnote_3" href="#FNanchor_3" class="fnanchor">3</a> -On the occasion of Buddhist funeral ceremonies, and at religious -ceremonies held on the anniversary of a death, it is a common custom to -set at freedom caged birds for the peace of the spirit of the deceased. -</div> - - - - -<div class="chapter"> -<p class="pagenum"><a id="Page_85"></a>[85]</p> -<h2 class="nobreak">A WEDDING PRESENT</h2> -<hr class="chap x-ebookmaker-drop"> -</div> - - -<p class="drop-cap">“LET go! Let go, can’t you!” shouted a young horseman furiously, as he -raised himself up in his stirrups and angrily brandished a whip.</p> - -<p>It was the ninth day of April in the twelfth year of Tensho (1584). The -battle of Komaki Hill, one of the five greatest battles in Japanese -history had just been fought, and intelligence had reached the camp -that Lord Ikeda Nobuteru of the Castle of Ōgaki in the province of Mino -and his eldest son had both fallen. Wild with grief and rage, Terumasa, -the only remaining son, had leapt upon his horse and was about to -plunge headlong into the opposing lines to avenge their death when his -faithful servant, Dansuké, caught hold of his bridle and with all his -might strove to keep back the impetuous youth—he was barely twenty—from -rushing on his fate.</p> - -<p>But all unavailing were his remonstrances and entreaties. Quite mad for -the nonce, Terumasa was determined to carry out his intention, and he -struck Dansuké more<span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_86"></a>[86]</span> than one stinging blow with his whip in order -to force him to let go.</p> - -<p>“Since you will not listen to reason, my lord, it is vain for me to -seek to detain you. Go, then, and gain renown from all who shall hear -of your gallant deed—friends and foes alike. I wish you good speed. Let -me touch up your horse a little that he may go the faster.”</p> - -<p>With these words the man struck the horse a sound blow on the crupper; -but cunning fellow that he was, he also gave the bridle a backward -twist before releasing it.</p> - -<p>Like one possessed the animal reared, and started off—not the way his -rider wished to go, but straight back in the opposite direction.</p> - -<p>“The devil!” cried Terumasa.</p> - -<p>He tried to pull up; to turn round; but in vain. The horse blessed -with more sense than his master knew which way safety lay and that way -he meant to pursue. Presently, however, his pace relaxed and Terumasa -exerting all his strength managed to arrest his flight. Patting him -gently on the neck and speaking soothing words Terumasa at length -succeeded in turning him round, and was once more on the point of<span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_87"></a>[87]</span> -performing his rash act when once more he was stopped by Dansuké, who -running up, quite out of breath, a second time seized the bridle.</p> - -<p>“Would you check me again, scoundrel?” shouted Terumasa. “Let go, let -go, I say, or you’ll repent it!”</p> - -<p>Raising his whip again and again he brought it down each time with -telling force on the head and shoulders of the man who dared to thwart -him; but, nothing daunted, Dansuké held on like grim death though the -blood was streaming from the cuts he received.</p> - -<p>“My lord, my lord,” he gasped. “I entreat you to be calm, and to -consider for a few moments. Of what avail is this desperate action?”</p> - -<p>“What, would you have me sit down quietly under this double loss? Would -you have me show myself an undutiful son as well as a disloyal vassal? -Are the vile miscreants to slay as they please and go unpunished? -Never! Let me go, I say!”</p> - -<p>“No, no, my dear young master, I will not let you go.... I will not let -you go thus blindly in your rage to certain death.... What is one man -among so many? Do not think I do not understand your feelings.... I do, -I do.... But, my lord, when you perish in a foolhardy, though brave, -attempt to avenge the death of<span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_88"></a>[88]</span> your honoured father and brother, -who, bethink you, will be left to carry on the family name?... What -will become of the noble house of Ikeda? If you follow your relatives -to Hades in this precipitate fashion, will your father be pleased? Will -he commend your devotion and say ‘My son, you have done right to follow -me!’ Will he not rather inquire ‘In whose care have you left the honour -of our family and its concerns?’ Your filial and fraternal affection is -altogether admirable, but your desire for revenge should not blind you -to the higher duty that awaits you—the duty you owe to a long line of -illustrious ancestors, the handing on of an untarnished name.... I do -not urge that you should give up all thoughts of vengeance only that -you should postpone their execution to a more propitious season. It is -unworthy of yourself to give way to this uncontrollable passion. Think -of the responsibility that rests upon you as the sole representative -of your family now that my honoured lord, your father, and his son -are no more. The time will surely come when you will thank me for the -restraint that so enrages you to-day. Oh, my dear young master, do not -be angry, but listen to the words of your devoted servant.”</p> - -<p class="pagenum"><a id="Page_89"></a>[89]</p> - -<p>During this long speech Terumasa fumed and chafed, and with kicks and -blows sought to release himself. But Dansuké would not let go his grip -and earnestly did he pour forth his supplication, though perforce it -was delivered in rather jerky and intermittent fashion. The bloody and -tearstained countenance of poor Dansuké at last wrought on the feelings -of Terumasa and caused him to desist. Seeing no other course open to -him, he ungraciously gave in and allowed his servant to lead his horse -back to their own camp. Here much sympathy was expressed for him in -his bereavement, but it was the unanimous opinion that Dansuké had -done right, for the time for revenge was not now when he was only too -certain to lose his own life without taking toll of that of his enemies.</p> - -<p>Thus did the faithful Dansuké save the life of his young master and -preserve the noble family of Ikeda from extinction.</p> - -<p class="tbreak">Peace reigned, for a reconciliation had been effected between the -conflicting factions of Tokugawa Iyeyasu and Hashiba Hideyoshi, to -the latter of whom the Ikedas had adhered. Hideyoshi was proclaimed -Regent.<span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_90"></a>[90]</span> The bitter enemies of yesterday had turned, as you turn -your hand, to the warm friends of to-day. Iyeyasu, long a widower, -now sought the hand of Hideyoshi’s younger sister in marriage and was -accepted. Hideyoshi, on his side, adopted a son of Iyeyasu’s for his -own. Thus “after the rain the ground hardened,” as the old saying has -it. All was smiling peace and goodwill between the two families which, -so short a time before had been at daggers drawn, not in the figurative -sense only, but in the most deadly reality.</p> - -<p>Terumasa, his hot passion cooled down, began to look at things in a -new light. To what purpose had his revered father sacrificed his life? -To no purpose whatever! Not alone his father, but his elder brother -and his brother-in-law—each and all had died in an utterly meaningless -strife. No cause had been served by their death. By this time they were -doubtless gnashing their teeth in Hades at the inconsequence of it all. -He thought of his own feelings at the time and of Dansuké’s devotion -which had saved him from falling another victim to the fate which had -overtaken his relatives.</p> - -<p>“At the moment Dansuké said, if I recollect aright, that the time would -surely come when I should thank<span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_91"></a>[91]</span> him for restraining my rash act. -Yes, he was right, though I little thought so then and only yielded -because I had to. That time has come, and sooner than even Dansuké -could have foreseen. He is a worthy fellow that Dansuké—I must see what -I can do for him.”</p> - -<p>No sooner said than done. Terumasa, in recognition of signal service -rendered in the face of danger, promoted his humble vassal to the rank -of a samurai; and Dansuké, being a man of parts, once having his feet -on the ladder speedily climbed to a high position. Ban Daizen, as he -was now called, rose step by step till at last he reached the highest -rank in the service of his lord, becoming one of the chief officials of -the Bizen clan. It is within the memory of living men that on the gate -of Ban’s house hung a pair of rusty stirrups. These stirrups are said -to have been the identical ones with which Lord Terumasa kicked the -progenitor of the house, Ban Daizen, at that time plain Dansuké, under -the circumstances above related, at the ever memorable battle of Komaki -Hill.</p> - -<p class="tbreak">Though all was peaceful between the heads of the erstwhile belligerent -parties, Terumasa cherished an<span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_92"></a>[92]</span> intense feeling of hatred towards -Tokugawa Iyeyasu, and resolved never to exchange greetings with the man -whom he deemed had indirectly been the cause of the death of his father -and elder brother. It was inevitable that the two should meet sometimes -at the palace of the Regent, and Iyeyasu was not so obtuse as not to -notice the stiff attitude of the young man, and shrewd enough to guess -what was passing in his mind. Having no ill will on his side, however, -Iyeyasu did his best to make friends. Whenever they came across each -other the older man would bow courteously and make a pleasant remark -about the weather, such as “Lord Ikeda, what a fine day it is!” or -“Lord Ikeda, the wind is very cold to-day!”. But Terumasa was blind -and deaf to all his overtures and would pass on quickly, with no -acknowledgment other than a savage stare.</p> - -<p>And thus eight years rolled on.</p> - -<p>The Regent was well aware of the estrangement between the two great -nobles, and it troubled him. He gave much thought to a plan that should -alter the relations between them.</p> - -<p>“It grieves me much,” he said, one day to Iyeyasu, “to see that you and -Terumasa are not on good terms. I should be glad if you were friends.”</p> - -<p class="pagenum"><a id="Page_93"></a>[93]</p> - -<p>“Your Highness,” replied Iyeyasu, “it is what I should like myself. The -animosity is not on my side, I assure you. For what happened all those -years ago at the battle of Komaki he blames me still and ever harbours -thoughts of revenge. I know it from his manner, but what can I do?”</p> - -<p>“If you will allow me, my friend, I will see what I can do for you. -Let me see, you have many daughters who are, as I have been told, fair -to look upon—what do you say to giving one of them in marriage to -Terumasa. His wife died some time ago and he has one little son. Would -you have any objection to the alliance?”</p> - -<p>“None at all, Your Highness, but how think you? Is it likely Terumasa -will listen to such a proposal? If I have any knowledge of his -character he will but give a contemptuous refusal.”</p> - -<p>“Not he! Do not concern yourself on that score. I will act -circumspectly, and if I am not very much mistaken, all will fall out as -we desire. Will you entrust the matter to my discretion?”</p> - -<p>“Entirely, Your Highness; and if you succeed you will have my hearty -thanks.”</p> - -<p>So far, so good. Hideyoshi’s next step was to summon<span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_94"></a>[94]</span> Terumasa to -his presence, and when the young man appeared, he spoke to him as -follows:—</p> - -<p>“My young friend, I hear that the sad death of your father and brother -at the battle of Komaki Hill is still rankling in your heart, and that -in consequence you refuse to be friends with Lord Tokugawa Iyeyasu. -The occurrence was indeed lamentable but it was the fortune of war and -to keep up a grudge so long against an innocent man is unreasonable. -The battle was between the Tokugawas and the Toyotomis, it was no -private conflict between the Tokugawas and the Ikedas. Peace has long -been restored—in these days it does not become a warrior to harbour -revengeful feelings against would-be friends—there are enough real foes -to fight. As a personal favour to me, if for no other reason, I ask you -to be reconciled to Iyeyasu and to forget the past. Or if my wish has -no weight with you, for love of the Emperor and of your native land, -throw off this evil feeling and be friends.”</p> - -<p>The gentle pleading of his loved chief touched Terumasa’s stubborn -heart. He could not say him nay.</p> - -<p>“Your Highness,” he said with his usual frank impetuosity, without -giving himself time to think. “It<span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_95"></a>[95]</span> shall be as you desire. From this -moment I bid farewell to all ideas of revenge.”</p> - -<p>“Your ready compliance augurs well for your sincerity,” said the great -statesman, much pleased. “I thank you, dear Terumasa, and I am sure you -will never regret your magnanimity.”</p> - -<p>Some more talk passed between them on indifferent subjects, but as -Terumasa was about to retire the Regent seemed struck with a sudden -idea.</p> - -<p>“Terumasa,” he said, “if I mistake not you are still a widower and -your little son has no one to take care of him;—it is time you married -again.”</p> - -<p>“Some day, Your Highness, I may think about it, but I am in no haste.”</p> - -<p>“It has just come into my head that it would be good to seal your -reconciliation with Tokugawa by marrying one of his daughters. That -would proclaim the fact to every one. If you permit me I will broach -the matter to him.”</p> - -<p>This was going further than Terumasa altogether liked, but seeing no -help for it he gave his assent, secretly hoping the negotiations would -fail.</p> - -<p>“I leave everything to your discretion, Your Highness,” he said. “I am -ready to do all you wish.”</p> - -<p class="pagenum"><a id="Page_96"></a>[96]</p> - -<p>“Then farewell for the present, Terumasa. I will let you know later on -what success I have.”</p> - -<p>Congratulating himself on the result of his diplomacy the Regent lost -no time in telling Iyeyasu. It was agreed between them that Lady -Toku, the second daughter should be the bride; and Terumasa offering -no objection, preparations were speedily set on foot for the formal -betrothal.</p> - -<p>But before this was celebrated, Terumasa presented himself before -Hideyoshi and proffered a request.</p> - -<p>“Since things have progressed so far by your kind mediation, Your -Highness, it is of course a matter on which there can be no two -opinions that my retainers become Tokugawa’s and Tokugawa’s retainers -become mine. In a word we are reconciled and become as one family. -But there is one little point that must be clearly understood. It is -this. It is well known that one of Lord Tokugawa’s retainers, a man -named Nagai Naokatsu killed my father at the battle of Komaki. It is -impossible that I should ever feel anything but enmity against this -fellow. As I said before, this must be clearly understood.”</p> - -<p>The Regent was nonplussed. It were unreasonable to condemn Terumasa’s -sentiments on this matter, and<span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_97"></a>[97]</span> should he do so he felt convinced -that the young man would be only too glad to seize an excuse to back -out of the engagement and things would go back to their old footing. -Therefore, he saw nothing for it but to put a good face on the matter -and to answer cordially.</p> - -<p>“There need be no disagreement about that, my dear Terumasa. Of course -you are at perfect liberty to indulge whatever feeling you like.”</p> - -<p>So the daughter of Iyeyasu was betrothed to Terumasa and it was -arranged that the wedding should take place at the earliest possible -date.</p> - -<p class="tbreak">Towards the end of February of the next year it became necessary that -Iyeyasu should go to his home in Yedo on some private business. The -war with Korea was at its height and the highest military authorities -had for some months been sitting in grave conclave at the Regent’s -headquarters at Nagoya in Hizen. Iyeyasu’s presence in Yedo offered -the first favourable opportunity for celebrating the nuptials of his -daughter, and it was settled that Terumasa should follow his intended -father-in-law to Yedo Castle as soon as possible.</p> - -<p class="pagenum"><a id="Page_98"></a>[98]</p> - -<p>Iyeyasu’s thoughts as he awaited his whilom foe were not all as joyful -as befitted a wedding. Anxious furrows lined his broad brow. Hideyoshi -had told him what the bridegroom had said about the man who had slain -those so near and dear to him, and Iyeyasu dreaded what those words -might portend. The idea crossed his mind that Terumasa might even -demand the head of Naokatsu as a wedding gift from the bride’s father.</p> - -<p>“See that you pay his lordship the utmost respect and honour,” said he -to the four chief retainers whose place it was to receive the expected -guest. “It weighs heavy on my mind that he has an unconquerable -animosity against poor Nagai Naokatsu. Be careful never so much as to -mention his name and it may be Lord Ikeda will forget. I trust you will -not fail me in this important and delicate matter.”</p> - -<p>“You may rely on our caution, my lord,” answered one of those he -addressed. “We will do all in our power to interest Lord Ikeda and to -divert his thoughts from dangerous subjects. And for fear of accidents -Nagai shall be warned to keep out of the way. Do not be anxious, my -lord, we will take every precaution.”</p> - -<p class="pagenum"><a id="Page_99"></a>[99]</p> - -<p>“That is well; I count on your fidelity.”</p> - -<p class="tbreak">In due time Terumasa arrived at the castle. Iyeyasu’s four chief -retainers received him with the greatest courtesy and ushering him into -the spacious guest-room conducted him to the seat of honour. They then -retreated backwards to the other end of the apartment, whence, with -both hands on the mats, they bowed repeatedly the while they uttered -words of welcome.</p> - -<p>“Lord Ikeda, we rejoice to see you and congratulate you on your safe -arrival after the dangers of your long journey. We beg to offer you our -humble felicitations on the happy event that has brought you hither, -and pray that all good fortune may ever attend you and your bride.”</p> - -<p>“I am glad to find myself under this roof on so agreeable a mission,” -replied Terumasa genially. “There is no need for me to introduce myself -for you know who I am. It had been my design never to come to speaking -terms with Lord Tokugawa, but through the kindly mediation of His -Highness the Regent, all unfriendly thoughts have been banished and to -seal our<span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_100"></a>[100]</span> alliance I have come here this day to wed his daughter. -Since the two families are to be thus united you are all my retainers, -and mine are all Lord Tokugawa’s. The old enmity is wiped out. We -start afresh on a new and better footing. I am delighted to make your -acquaintance.”</p> - -<p>“My lord, it is very condescending of you to show us so much favour. -Permit us to profit by this opportunity to recommend ourselves to your -good graces.”</p> - -<p>“May I enquire your names?”</p> - -<p>“Ah, we have been remiss! I, who speak, am Ii Naomasa, at your service.”</p> - -<p>“And I am Sakai Saemon, your lordship.”</p> - -<p>“Can it be! I know your names well and I recall seeing you both at a -distance now and again before your camp at the time of the battle of -Komaki Hill. Yes, you fought valiantly.”</p> - -<p>“Your lordship flatters us. We do not deserve such praise.”</p> - -<p>“And who may you be, my friend?”</p> - -<p>“My name, your lordship, is Nakatsukasa Tadakatsu, formerly Honda -Heihachiro.”</p> - -<p>“I know, I know! It was a misty morning when<span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_101"></a>[101]</span> I saw you fighting -bravely on the bank of the river near Ryūsenji Temple in Kasugai. Yes, -yes, you, too, acquitted yourself splendidly.”</p> - -<p>“My lord, I do not merit such commendation; I am but a plain soldier.”</p> - -<p>“There is one more—may I ask your name also?”</p> - -<p>“Sakakibara Yasumasa, my lord.”</p> - -<p>“Do I behold the countenance of the renowned Sakakibara?—Sakakibara, -who by himself gave chase to Lord Hideyoshi when he was forced to -retreat near Hosonigaki? Your temerity on that occasion is still -vividly remembered by His Highness. He admits, of an evening when in a -talkative mood, that he was never so terrified in his life! Ha, ha, ha! -You were a bold man.”</p> - -<p>“The past is past and forgotten, my lord. I am now one of the most -faithful and obedient servants of His Highness. We whose trade is that -of arms, fight and make peace as the god of war casts his dice—we have -no choice in the matter.”</p> - -<p>“The presence of so many brave soldiers who took part in the battle of -Komaki Hill gives me much pleasure. My thoughts are carried back to the -past<span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_102"></a>[102]</span> and—that reminds me—my brave sirs, will you answer me one -question?”</p> - -<p>“As many as it is your pleasure to put, your lordship.”</p> - -<p>“I have heard of one Nagai Naokatsu who was also at the battle; what -has become of him?”</p> - -<p>This was a bolt from the blue! The four veterans, brave men though they -were, looked from one to the other in consternation and dismay, quite -at a loss how to reply. That which their lord had warned them against -had befallen in the very first hour. Terumasa seeing, and it must be -confessed, enjoying, their discomfiture, pressed for his answer.</p> - -<p>“What has become of Nagai? Where is he now?” he repeated, impatiently.</p> - -<p>Another exchange of glances. Not one of them dared to take upon himself -the onus of the answer.</p> - -<p>“Have you suddenly lost your hearing, sirs? I ask again, What has -become of Nagai?”</p> - -<p>It was plain that Terumasa was losing his temper.</p> - -<p>“Begging your lordship’s pardon,” faltered Sakai Saemon, behind whom -the others were gradually insinuating themselves as they pushed him -forward to fulfil his usual office of spokesman, “I believe he is -in<span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_103"></a>[103]</span> good health, and still in our lord’s service.”</p> - -<p>“Still in your lord’s service? I am glad of that; it removes a great -weight from my mind. It is to see this same Nagai, the murderer of -my father, that I have covered so many miles. You will oblige me by -bringing him before me without delay.”</p> - -<p>“My lord, I venture to suggest that you send for him after your -interview with Lord Tokugawa.”</p> - -<p>“That can wait. I desire to see this Nagai first. If you refuse, it -only remains for me to leave Yedo at once without paying my respects to -his lordship. I have spoken.”</p> - -<p>There was no doubting that Terumasa meant what he said. There was -nothing for it but to apprise their master of what had happened in -spite of their precautions, and to leave the matter to his judgment. -Sakai Saemon bowed low as he said:—</p> - -<p>“My lord, deign to wait a few minutes. I will oblige you with all -speed.”</p> - -<p>“No equivocation, mind. Beware how you play with me!”</p> - -<p>Sakai withdrew, his three friends having already disappeared. Terumasa -smiled grimly to himself. Nothing was lost upon him.<span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_104"></a>[104]</span></p> - -<p>The four retainers hastened to their lord’s chamber. He looked up as -they entered and asked pleasantly:—</p> - -<p>“Well, he has arrived?”</p> - -<p>“Yes, your lordship.”</p> - -<p>“Is all well?”</p> - -<p>“No, your lordship; we fear the worst has happened.”</p> - -<p>“How! What do you mean?”</p> - -<p>“He demands to be at once confronted with Nagai.”</p> - -<p>“Did I not warn you....” began Iyeyasu, angrily; then he checked -himself, and with arms folded and head sunk on his breast, considered -the situation.</p> - -<p>“You say that Lord Ikeda insists on seeing Nagai Naokatsu at once?” he -queried presently, looking up.</p> - -<p>“Yes, your lordship.”</p> - -<p>“Then by all means, let him see Nagai. Lord Ikeda is not a madman. He -has come here to marry my daughter. It is not likely, unless he is out -of his mind, that he will upset all our plans and imperil the favour of -the Regent just to satisfy an old grudge.”</p> - -<p>“Judging from his words and manner there is no saying what he may or -may not do, your lordship.”</p> - -<p>“Humph!”</p> - -<p>“Should he put his hand on his sword when he finds Nagai before him, -we shall not be able to stop him<span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_105"></a>[105]</span> from wreaking his vengeance. Or -should he demand Nagai’s head for a wedding present, how can we refuse?”</p> - -<p>“Will he go so far as that?”</p> - -<p>“Nothing more likely, your lordship.”</p> - -<p>“I was afraid of this. Let me think what can be done.”</p> - -<p>Iyeyasu pondered awhile, a deep frown of perplexity and trouble on -his forehead. Then as if a solution had suddenly come to him his eyes -sparkled, and he spoke firmly.</p> - -<p>“Take Nagai Naokatsu into the presence of Lord Ikeda as he desires, and -if he demands his head as a wedding gift deny him resolutely. Those are -my orders.”</p> - -<p>“Your lordship, it is easy to obey, but if we act like that there will -be an end to the proposed marriage, and you will incur the displeasure -of His Highness, the Regent. Dare you run such a risk?”</p> - -<p>“Do not trouble yourselves about results, only do as I tell you. If -Lord Ikeda asks for the head of Nagai as a wedding gift, remind him -that the battle of Komaki was fought between the Tokugawas and the -Toyotomis—it was no private affair of the Ikedas.<span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_106"></a>[106]</span> Nagai served -under his chief and killed General Ikeda Nobuteru by the fortune of -war. It was one of the chances of battle and in a fair field. Nagai did -but do his duty. If Terumasa feels any animosity for the death of his -relatives it should be directed against me, the principal, not against -Nagai who was only fighting under my orders. Therefore, tell him, he -is welcome to wreak all his vengeance upon my daughter, Lady Toku, -his bride. Let him cut her in strips if so he wills and I shall not -interfere, but let him understand explicitly that Iyeyasu will never -sacrifice his loyal retainer on any consideration whatever.”</p> - -<p>“My lord, your words impress us deeply. We will return and try to -adjust the matter to the satisfaction of all parties!”</p> - -<p>Nagai Naokatsu was sent for. The four retainers told him how things -stood, and further instructed him to be on his guard, ready to fly -should the young nobleman’s hand move towards his sword-hilt.</p> - -<p>Then the four went back to the guest-room where Terumasa fuming and -chafing had been waiting all this time.</p> - -<p>And now it was Sakakibara Yasumasa who spoke first.</p> - -<p class="pagenum"><a id="Page_107"></a>[107]</p> - -<p>“My lord, we apologize for the long delay,” he began.</p> - -<p>“Have you brought Nagai—where is he?” Terumasa interrupted him.</p> - -<p>“Yes, my lord, he is without.”</p> - -<p>“That is well. Show him instantly into my presence.”</p> - -<p>“Yes, my lord.”</p> - -<p>The sliding screens were pushed aside and there, in the ante-chamber, -at a very respectful distance calculated for the convenience of making -his escape in case of need, sat Nagai, his bent head hiding his face.</p> - -<p>“Are you Nagai?”</p> - -<p>“Yes, your lordship.”</p> - -<p>“Come here, Nagai.”</p> - -<p>“My lord, I am unworthy to approach your honourable lordship.”</p> - -<p>“Away with excuses! Come here, I say.”</p> - -<p>“My lord, I cannot venture so far.”</p> - -<p>“You try my patience beyond its limit, sirrah!”</p> - -<p>Terumasa rose to his feet precipitately and crossed the intervening -space to where Nagai crouched. The sweat burst out on the four men who -were witnesses of the scene; they trembled for what would come.</p> - -<p>“Why do you not come when I call?” thundered<span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_108"></a>[108]</span> Terumasa, seizing the -other’s wrists and dragging him over the floor. “I’ll teach you to obey -at once!”</p> - -<p>Terumasa being a big man and possessed of great strength, Nagai was as -a sparrow in the talons of a hawk and entirely at his mercy. Before he -had time to think, much less to struggle, he found himself landed by -the cushion where Terumasa had been sitting since his arrival and on -which he again seated himself.</p> - -<p>“Look at me, sirrah!” commanded Terumasa.</p> - -<p>“My lord,” said the frightened wretch, “I cannot do that.”</p> - -<p>“Look at me. You were not such a craven when you killed my father -Nobuteru in cold blood, on the ninth day of the fourth month in the -twelfth year of Tensho.”</p> - -<p>“All the more reason why I should quail now, your lordship.”</p> - -<p>“You are a most obstinate fellow! Why will you never do as I tell you?”</p> - -<p>Terumasa took hold of the man’s collar and twisted his face upwards. -Looking calmly and critically at it for a moment or two he observed -complacently.</p> - -<div class="figcenter"> -<p class="center mt2"><span id="img108"> - <img src="images/ill_108.jpg" class="illowp90w" alt="Terumasa is grabbing the man’s collar"> -</span></p> -<p class="center caption">Terumasa took hold of the man’s collar and twisted his -face upwards</p> -</div> - -<p class="mt2">“Well, Nagai Naokatsu, it affords me much gratification to look at -you. I have been told that you have<span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_109"></a>[109]</span> the best appearance of all -the men in the service of Lord Tokugawa. My informant was right—you -are undoubtedly a very handsome man, though at the present moment you -do not appear to the best advantage.... It is a satisfaction to know -that my father met his death at the hands of so creditable a soldier. -Without doubt he went the less reluctantly to the spirit world. So far, -well, Nagai.”</p> - -<p>Naokatsu gave himself up for lost. Though far from being a coward at -ordinary times, the stern aspect and speech of Terumasa whom he had so -greatly, though inadvertently, wronged, awed and intimidated him.</p> - -<p>The four retainers stood prepared to interfere at the last moment -should it be necessary, and they too thought Nagai’s doom was sealed.</p> - -<p>Still keeping his grip on the collar of his victim’s garment, Terumasa -continued to gaze at him thoughtfully. Then turning to the other men he -asked abruptly:—</p> - -<p>“What annual stipend does he receive at the present time?”</p> - -<p>“One thousand <i>koku</i> of rice from his fief near Kawagoé.”</p> - -<p class="pagenum"><a id="Page_110"></a>[110]</p> - -<p>“And how much did he get at the time of the battle of Komaki?”</p> - -<p>“Two hundred <i>koku</i>, your lordship.”</p> - -<p>Terumasa flung the man from him and clapped both hands on his knees. -Tears of mortification stood in his eyes.</p> - -<p>“Can I credit my ears? At the time of the battle his stipend was two -hundred <i>koku</i>; now after the lapse of well-nigh ten years it has risen -to only one thousand <i>koku</i>, and that derived from an out-of-the-way -hole like Kawagoé! Ah, what a worthless fellow he must be! To think -that my revered father perished by the hand of such an insignificant -creature! It is too humiliating! Father, I fear you can never forgive -yourself for allowing such a disgraceful thing to happen. You must -everlastingly be bemoaning your untoward fate in the land of the -shades. I, Terumasa, your son, sympathise with you from the bottom of -my heart!”</p> - -<p>His emotion was so genuine that tears trickled down his dark cheeks and -he seemed to forget that there were witnesses of his unusual weakness. -Not for long, however. Recovering his composure, he turned his eyes on -the men before him.</p> - -<p>“Sirs,” he said, “I told you a short time since, that<span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_111"></a>[111]</span> my main -object in coming to Yedo was to behold the countenance of this man, -the slayer of my father and brother. I have seen him and am not -disappointed. But there is one request that I desire you will kindly -submit to my future father-in-law. It concerns this same Nagai -Naokatsu. If, according to custom, his lordship intends giving me a -wedding present....”</p> - -<p>Here it was at last! The four chief retainers could not restrain a -shudder, and the face of Nagai grew livid. It was Ii who first found -his voice.</p> - -<p>“My lord,” he stammered, “what you say is reasonable and we expected -as much. But will you not let bygones be bygones? The Komaki affair -happened nearly ten years ago and it is too late to rake it up. -Moreover, this is a day highly blessed by the god of peace—a day on -which two noble families are to be joined. Let not such an occasion -be marred by a deed of revenge and blood. I entreat your lordship to -reconsider your words and mercifully to let Nagai live!”</p> - -<p>“My lord, we all unite in humbly pleading for the life of this -unfortunate man!” chorused the other three, as all threw themselves -down with heads touching the mats before him.</p> - -<p class="pagenum"><a id="Page_112"></a>[112]</p> - -<p>“What are you all talking about?” said Terumasa, unceremoniously. “Who -said I wanted the life of Nagai? Nothing is further from my thoughts. -This is what I wish you to ask Lord Tokugawa—that he will use his -influence with His Highness, the Regent, to have this fellow created -a daimio, as soon as possible, with an annual income of, say, ten -thousand <i>koku</i>.”</p> - -<p>Amazement was depicted on the faces of the five men—amazement and -relief. Iyeyasu, who behind a sliding screen had heard all that had -passed, now pushed it aside and ran into the room. Clasping Terumasa’s -hands in his he raised them to his head while he gave vent to his -feelings as follows:—</p> - -<p>“Terumasa, you have acquitted yourself nobly! I am unworthy of so -magnanimous a son-in-law. What can I say but that I will do all in my -power to further your truly chivalrous request.”</p> - - -<p class="tbreak">After the wedding Terumasa returned with his bride to the city of -Nagoya, where Iyeyasu soon followed him. He told the whole story to -the Regent and proffered his request. Hideyoshi slapped his knee in -approval.</p> - -<p class="pagenum"><a id="Page_113"></a>[113]</p> - -<p>“Terumasa is a true samurai,” he said. “Rest assured his petition shall -meet with immediate attention.”</p> - -<p class="tbreak">Accordingly, Nagai Naokatsu, a minor vassal, of one thousand <i>koku</i>, -from a place near Kawagoé, was at a bound promoted to the dignity of a -daimio worth ten thousand <i>koku</i> yearly.</p> - -<p>So you see that Ikeda Nobuteru did not fall by the sword of a nameless -samurai!</p> - - - - -<div class="chapter"> -<p class="pagenum"><a id="Page_117"></a>[117]</p> -<h2 class="nobreak">THE HEROISM OF TORII KATSUTAKA</h2> -<hr class="chap x-ebookmaker-drop"> -</div> - - -<p class="drop-cap">THE little garrison besieged in the Castle of Nagashino, in the -province of Mikawa, was in desperate straits.</p> - -<p>Okudaira Sadayoshi, Governor of the castle, was away at a distance on -business of importance, and his son, Sadamasa, was left in command with -a small company of but eight hundred men. These fought with the courage -of despair; but having been taken at unawares, the castle was ill -provided with ammunition and provisions, and at the end of a fortnight -death, from starvation, or the alternative of surrender, stared them in -the face.</p> - -<p>It was at the close of April in the third year of Tensho (1575). Takeda -Katsuyori, Lord of Kai, knowing his feudal enemy, Sadayoshi, to be -absent, deemed it a good opportunity to attack his stronghold; and, -therefore, at the head of 28,000, suddenly swooped down and surrounded -the castle. Stationing his head-quarters on a hill opposite the main -entrance, he invested it on all<span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_118"></a>[118]</span> sides, day and night continuing -the assaults on the walls, so that, if possible, it might fall into his -hands before either Sadayoshi’s liege lord, Tokugawa Iyeyasu, or the -latter’s powerful ally, Oda Nobunaga, could come to the rescue.</p> - -<p>By the end of two weeks some three hundred of the defenders had been -killed, or so seriously wounded as to be incapable of rendering further -aid; and sparing though they had been of it, food remained for barely -two days more. In this sore strait Sadamasa summoned all his men and -with calm courage and determination addressed them as follows:—</p> - -<p>“My men,” he said, “I cannot speak too highly of your bravery and -devotion, and I thank you. But the odds against us are too great and -the castle must be given up. Our ammunition has almost run out and we -have food for but two days more. To send for help is impossible, so -closely does the enemy watch every outlet. I will send an envoy to -Takeda requesting that you may all depart unmolested, while I myself -will commit <i>seppuku</i>. It may be in your hearts to fight to the end -rather than surrender the castle, but of what avail would it be for you -thus to sacrifice your lives. It would do no good to me nor to anyone -else. It is my<span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_119"></a>[119]</span> wish that you should all live to join my father and -hereafter fight again for him and it may be recover the castle that we -are now forced by wholly unforeseen and unavoidable circumstances to -yield. There is nothing else to be done. Save yourselves and allow me -to commit <i>seppuku</i>.”</p> - -<p>Sadamasa ceased speaking, but before the sound of his grave tones had -died away, a ringing voice from the rear took up his words.</p> - -<p>“Commit <i>seppuku</i>, my lord! It is too soon to talk of such a desperate -measure! With your permission I will steal my way through the enemy’s -lines and summon reinforcements before it is too late.”</p> - -<p>“Is it Katsutaka who speaks? My brave fellow, I appreciate your desire, -but the idea is quite impracticable. How could a rat, much less a giant -like you over six feet, get through the enemy’s lines unobserved, and -supposing such a miracle accomplished, how could an army reach us -in time to avert our dying from starvation? It is not without deep -consideration that I have come to the conclusion that I have just made -known to you. Your project is impossible.”</p> - -<p>“Not so, my lord,” Katsutaka spoke quietly like a man who has fully -made up his mind and knows what<span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_120"></a>[120]</span> he is about. “As you know, I am a -good swimmer, and I am strong. I will cross the river in the dark and -hurrying at utmost speed to His Excellency Lord Tokugawa lay before him -our need and request the instant despatch of troops to disperse the -besiegers. I have thought the matter over; I can do it.”</p> - -<p>“Bravely conceived and bravely spoken, Katsutaka! Well, desperate -diseases call for desperate remedies. You can but fail and we shall be -no worse off than before. Go, my friend, and may luck attend you!” He -paused, for emotion made it difficult to speak; then recovering his -voice, he went on:—“Should you effect your escape, as you hope, it is -necessary that we should know of it that we may hold out to the last -minute. How can you inform us of the fact!”</p> - -<p>“Easily, my lord. I will climb to the summit of Mt. Funatsuki and -cause smoke to rise by way of a signal. From thence to Okazaki where -Lord Tokugawa is in residence is a distance of only twenty-three miles -or so. I shall arrive at his castle by noon to-morrow, and having -delivered my message shall return without delay.”</p> - -<p>“And how can you tell us of the coming of reinforcements?”</p> - -<p class="pagenum"><a id="Page_121"></a>[121]</p> - -<p>“At midnight, the day after to-morrow, I shall be back on the mountain, -and again I will signal to you by smoke. One column of smoke will -mean that His Excellency Lord Tokugawa’s troops are coming alone; two -will mean that they are accompanied by those of Lord Oda; and three -will signify that His Excellency’s army has been joined by both Lords -Oda,—an allied army of three divisions.”</p> - -<p>“Can you by any possibility inform us of the number of troops?”</p> - -<p>“Nothing easier, my lord. One shot will tell you that 10,000 troops are -on their way; two shots, 20,000; three shots 30,000. Have no fears, my -lord. I am confident that I shall succeed.”</p> - -<p>“Heaven aid your heroic spirit, Katsutaka! When do you propose to -start?”</p> - -<p>“With your permission, as soon as it is dark, my lord. There is no time -to be lost. Farewell!”</p> - -<p>“Stay, my friend. I will give you something before you go. See here.”</p> - -<p>Katsutaka approached nearer and his master gave into his hands a case -of costly incense and a valuable sword.</p> - -<p>“This incense is a family treasure, having been<span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_122"></a>[122]</span> handed down from -our ancestor, Prince Tomohira, the seventh son of the Emperor Murakami; -and this sword is another heirloom—a noted blade by Sadamuné. Take -these articles as some small recognition of your bravery and loyalty.”</p> - -<p>With deep reverence the soldier received the precious gifts.</p> - -<p>“Your lordship is too good to his humble servant. I accept your -generosity with profound gratitude.”</p> - -<p>“Stay yet again, Katsutaka! I must pledge you in a parting cup.”</p> - -<p>Two cups were brought and a bottle of <i>saké</i>. Katsutaka then executed a -war-dance singing a martial strain the while. Then he departed to make -the few preparations necessary for his perilous undertaking, leaving -all those assembled, both officers and men, full of admiration for his -heroism.</p> - -<p>Clad in the lightest attire and with a small packet wrapped in -waterproof oil-paper in his hand, in the stillness of night, Katsutaka -stole out of a postern gate and crept to the bank of the River Iwashiro -which flowed at no great distance past the castle. The rainy season -having already set in, the stream was much swollen and the swift -current in its windings dashed<span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_123"></a>[123]</span> furiously against either bank in -turn. Katsutaka hid himself among the tall reeds growing on the edge -and cast a searching eye in every direction. The full moon, breaking -out of a heavy bank of clouds, made the night almost as bright as day; -and to his dismay the adventurer saw that a web of large and small -ropes to which were fastened innumerable clappers was extended over the -stream, and that a close line of sentinels was on guard on the opposite -shore. When anything happened to touch the ropes the clappers would -rattle loudly “gara-gara, gara-gara,” and at each rattle the sentinels -were on the alert with torches to discover the cause of the noise.</p> - -<p>At this unexpected difficulty Katsutaka was greatly taken aback. -How could he swim across the river in the face of such vigilant -precautions? To add to his dismay he saw waving lazily in the gentle -night breeze an <i>umajirushi</i> or “horse-badge” and a flag, both bearing -a coat of arms that he knew belonged to Baba Nobufusa who was esteemed -the ablest of all the veteran generals of the opposing army.</p> - -<p>“I am certainly under an unlucky star,” groaned Katsutaka. “With Baba -Nobufusa in charge of this side it is well-nigh impossible for me to -cross the river<span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_124"></a>[124]</span> and effect a landing. But I will not give up -without doing my best, and it may be I shall yet find a way to elude -their vigilance.”</p> - -<p>He tore up a reed and was about to hurl it into the river when it -struck him that if the root had earth on it the sagacious Nobufusa -would conclude that some one was hiding in the vicinity and order -his soldiers to make a strict search. That would be fatal to his -enterprise. He, therefore, washed the mud off the reed and then threw -it into the stream. Immediately it got entangled in the network -of ropes and set all the clappers clattering loudly, “gara-gara, -gara-gara.”</p> - -<p>On the instant two sentinels leapt into the water and drew the reed to -land. It was taken to Nobufusa who carefully examined the root by the -light of a torch.</p> - -<p>“There is nothing suspicious about this reed,” said the general. “It is -of no consequence.”</p> - -<p>Katsutaka, peering intently from his hiding place on the other side, -felt his heart sink.</p> - -<p>“It is hopeless to think of crossing,” he said to himself.</p> - -<p>After a few moments of despondency he once more uprooted a reed and -washing off the mud as before cast it into the river. Again the -clappers were set<span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_125"></a>[125]</span> a-going and again some of the men plunged into -the water to seek the cause.</p> - -<p>“Another reed, my lord,” said the man who handed it to the general.</p> - -<p>“The reeds are being washed off the bank by the flood,” he remarked -after examining the reed. “It is nothing; but nevertheless do not relax -your vigilance, my men.”</p> - -<p>Katsutaka now picked up a dead branch that had been washed ashore, and -threw it at the ropes, and after that another reed. So he went on, -throwing now one thing, now another, keeping the clappers rattling -so unintermittingly that in time Nobufusa’s soldiers ceased to take -notice of the sound and no longer dashed into the river at every fresh -repetition. Still, however, Katsutaka could not venture to enter the -river himself, for watchful eyes never left off scanning the dark -waters. Time was passing. What could he do? Katsutaka was well-nigh in -despair. To return and confess he had failed at the very outset was -insupportable—unthinkable even!</p> - -<p>Just then he heard the roll of a drum—the guard was being relieved. -Nobufusa’s men retired and Atobé Ōinosuké’s took their place.</p> - -<p class="pagenum"><a id="Page_126"></a>[126]</p> - -<p>Katsutaka’s spirits rose. Ōinosuké was noted for his subtlety, he knew, -but could not be compared with Nobufusa in patient strategy. Once more -Katsutaka began throwing things into the river, but the fresh sentinels -were very much on the alert and examined everything that set the -clappers rattling. Poor Katsutaka was feeling indeed hopeless when the -heavy clouds that had been coming up unobserved, obscured the moon and -there was a low rumble of thunder in the distance. Then with appalling -swiftness the storm was upon them. The noise was terrific. The heavy -rush of the rain that came down in sheets, the roar of the wind and the -roll and rattle of thunder made a pandemonium of the erstwhile peaceful -night.</p> - -<p>Katsutaka had no fear of the elements; he only thought that now his -course was clear. He danced and shouted for joy, knowing that he could -be neither seen nor heard through the tumult and pitchy darkness. But -no time was to be lost. The storm might pass over as rapidly as it had -come. Stripping himself bare and tying his oil-paper package round his -neck he slipped into the turbid waters and with his dagger cut some -of the ropes that crossed it. The noisy clappers sounded faintly to -the watchers on the opposite bank, but as<span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_127"></a>[127]</span> some men were about to -investigate their general stopped them.</p> - -<p>“It is unnecessary, my men,” he said. “The clappers are moved by fish -coming down the flood from the upper reaches of the river. None of the -garrison opposite would be so mad as to attempt to cross in such a -storm—it would mean instant death. Therefore be reassured.”</p> - -<p>“You speak truly, my lord,” assented one of the men. “It can only be -fish as your honour says.”</p> - -<p>Tossed and whirled about by the current, Katsutaka struggled to the -opposite bank at a point about half a mile from where he had started. -He found this part also well guarded, but hoped that under cover of the -darkness and noise he might get through. Stealthily he was making his -way when suddenly his foot slipped on the wet ground and he fell with a -slight thud.</p> - -<p>“Who goes there?” rang out the quick challenge in his ear.</p> - -<p>Startled, Katsutaka scrambled to his feet and laid his hand on the hilt -of his dagger.</p> - -<p>“One of the patrol, sir,” he answered readily.</p> - -<p>“Is that all? I pity you out in the storm. Pass on!”</p> - -<p class="pagenum"><a id="Page_128"></a>[128]</p> - -<p>“Thank you, Captain. Good-night, sir.”</p> - -<p>“Good-night. Do not relax your care. The enemy may take advantage of -the storm.”</p> - -<p>“I will take care, sir.”</p> - -<p>Thus his presence of mind saved the situation when all seemed lost, and -the first and most difficult part of his enterprise was accomplished.</p> - - -<p class="tbreak">By the time Katsutaka had ascended to the summit of the mountain from -whence he intended to signal, the rain had almost ceased and the rumble -of thunder was barely audible in the growing distance. As he paused -to take breath the moon shone out again and bathed the landscape -in silvery loveliness. With material brought in his little package -he managed to make a small blaze, trusting it would be seen by the -watchers at the castle who would be anxious to know of his escape. Then -once more resuming his journey he hastened down the declivity and with -no further adventure arrived at the town of Okazaki about 10 o’clock -the following morning.</p> - -<p>As he drew near the castle he met an officer on horseback attended by -a few men on foot. To his<span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_129"></a>[129]</span> great joy he recognized his own chief, -Lord Okudaira Sadayoshi. Placing himself in the way and bowing with due -reverence:—</p> - -<p>“I am Torii Katsutaka, my lord,” he said, “and I have come on an urgent -errand from your honourable son at present beleaguered in the Castle of -Nagashino.”</p> - -<p>“Beleaguered! My son beleaguered! What mean you by such strange -tidings? Follow me; I will return to the castle instantly.”</p> - -<p>Turning his horse and followed closely by his retinue and Katsutaka, -Sadayoshi cantered quickly back the way he had come and dismounting in -the courtyard demanded of the messenger a more explicit and detailed -account of how matters stood. He was indignant beyond measure at what -he heard.</p> - -<p>“This is wholly unexpected and unwelcome news,” he exclaimed. “My brave -fellow, your daring deed is beyond all praise. I came here two days ago -with Lord Tokugawa, on my way home intending to stay a short time. Now -I must proceed instantly. Wait here while I go to tell His Excellency; -it may be he will wish to question you himself.”</p> - -<p>In a very short time an attendant summoned Katsutaka to the presence of -the famous statesman.</p> - -<p class="pagenum"><a id="Page_130"></a>[130]</p> - -<p>“Torii Katsutaka,” said he kindly, “you are a brave man, and have done -a wonderful thing. Let me know exactly how matters stand at the Castle -of Nagashino. You have my permission to speak to me directly.”</p> - -<p>Expressing his sense of the honour shown him, Katsutaka, in the simple -words of a plain soldier, gave a detailed account of the state of -affairs within and without the castle when he had left it.</p> - -<p>“If reinforcements be not instantly despatched, Your Excellency,” -he concluded, “the garrison will starve to death. I entreat, Your -Excellency, let no time be lost.”</p> - -<p>“Reinforcements shall be sent with all possible speed,” said Iyeyasu. -“By a happy chance both Lords Oda are now in this province with their -troops, and they can reach the besieged castle in two, or at the most, -three days. But for you we should have known nothing till too late. You -are a hero indeed. Now go and get food and rest before you start on -your return journey.”</p> - - -<p class="tbreak">The afternoon of the same day, Iyeyasu, at the head of 20,000 men -proceeded to the castle of Ushikubo, where he was joined by the two -Lords Oda with their<span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_131"></a>[131]</span> combined forces of 50,000 men. Arrangements were -set on foot for an early start the next morning.</p> - -<p>Iyeyasu then spoke to Katsutaka again:—</p> - -<p>“As you see, our allied armies will be able to reach Nagashino in two -days at the latest. So rest assured that the relief will be in time. -You must be greatly fatigued. Remain here a few days till you are fully -rested.”</p> - -<p>“Your Excellency is too considerate, but I cannot take advantage of -your kindness. I must return at once and tell the garrison of the -success of my mission and that help is coming. Allow me to set out -without delay.”</p> - -<p>“By your own showing it would be quite impossible for you to re-enter -the castle in the manner in which you came out. Do not be rash, but -stay here as I advise you.”</p> - -<p>“A thousand pardons, Your Excellency,” said Katsutaka, respectfully, -but firmly. “At the risk of my life I undertook this errand; I will -carry it through to the end. It is an honour more than my poor life is -worth to have been granted speech with Your Excellency and favoured -with words of commendation from your august lips. Life can offer me -no higher grace. Even should<span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_132"></a>[132]</span> I be captured by the enemy and put -to an ignominious death I should have nothing to regret. The garrison -is starving; to know that help is on the way will give them new life. -Permit me to go, Your Excellency.”</p> - -<p>“If you are so set upon it,” replied Lord Tokugawa, “I will say no -more. You shall take a letter from me to Sadamasa.”</p> - -<p>“That would be dangerous, Your Excellency. If the letter were found on -my person notice would be given of your approach and the enemy would -take steps accordingly.”</p> - -<p>“Right,” said Iyeyasu with a smile. “You are wise as well as brave, my -Katsutaka!”</p> - -<p>Then Katsutaka bade farewell to Lord Tokugawa and Lord Okudaira -Sadayoshi, and shouldering his gun set out once more on his perilous -journey.</p> - -<p class="tbreak">Anxiously did the diminishing and weakened garrison at the besieged -castle wait for the signal that should tell them help was coming. -Cheered by the knowledge that Katsutaka, contrary to expectation, had -succeeded in eluding the sentinels they now had some hope that he would -have the same good fortune in his further<span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_133"></a>[133]</span> quest. In turn watchmen -went up to the high tower and strained their eyes in the direction -whence the promised signal would appear. At midnight of the second day, -to their boundless joy, they descried a light as of a bonfire on Mt. -Funatsuki; and soon three columns of dark smoke rose in the still air -plainly seen against the sky that was lighted up by a great round moon. -Help was coming! But would it be sufficient? How many troops were on -their way? Hark! a sharp report, and then another and yet another till -seven shots gave the glad assurance of the approach of 70,000 men. The -starving men took heart again, and forgetting hunger and wounds looked -forward with joy to their speedy relief.</p> - -<p>But the sound of the shots reached other ears as well as those for -which it was intended. The company on guard at the foot of the mountain -heard it too, and a detachment went up to investigate. General Naito -Masatoyo himself led the little band. With no thought of danger -Katsutaka, triumphant, was gaily running down when he found himself -surrounded by the very men he wished to avoid.</p> - -<p>“Halt! Who are you?” demanded the general. Katsutaka’s ready wit did -not desert him.</p> - -<p class="pagenum"><a id="Page_134"></a>[134]</p> - -<p>“Hearing shots, I have been with my comrades to find out what they -meant. We have searched everywhere but can find no one. I am coming -down to report our failure.”</p> - -<p>“Come nearer and let me see your face. Who is your captain?”</p> - -<p>“I belong to the company of riflemen under the command of Captain -Anayama.”</p> - -<p>“Your name!”</p> - -<p>“My name—my name is....”</p> - -<p>“Men, take this fellow prisoner.”</p> - -<p>More easily said than done. At the command four or five soldiers sprang -forward to obey, but Katsutaka made such a vigorous defence that they -found it impossible to hold him; and freeing himself from their grasp -he ran down towards the foot of the hill. More soldiers were coming up, -however, so he turned back, hoping under cover of some bushes to slip -past and thus escape. But he was seen and caught as in a trap. Dealing -heavy blows right and left he made a good fight, but the odds were too -overwhelming and he was at last forced to yield. His gun was taken from -him and handed to the general who found thereon an inscription in red -lacquer, “One of 3,000 guns<span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_135"></a>[135]</span> belonging to the Castle of Okazaki.”</p> - -<p>The truth flashed upon him. He guessed that the man they had captured -had been to Okazaki to ask for reinforcements. Late though it was he -must be taken before the Commander-in-chief, General Katsuyori, at once.</p> - -<p>Bloodstained and travel-worn Katsutaka presented a pitiable sight when, -roused from his slumbers, the general surveyed him by the imperfect -light of a lantern. Yet there was something in the bearing of the man -that called forth a feeling of admiration for his courage rather than -compassion for his condition and circumstances.</p> - -<p>“Your name?” said the general.</p> - -<p>Having no motive now for concealment Katsutaka spoke out boldly.</p> - -<p>“Torii Katsutaka, retainer of Lord Okudaira Sadamasa, Governor of the -Castle of Nagashino.”</p> - -<p>“You have been to Okazaki, for reinforcements, and fired these shots -from the top of Mt. Funatsuki by a prearranged plan. Is it not so?”</p> - -<p>“It is so, Your Excellency.”</p> - -<p>“It was a hazardous errand. You must tell me later how you managed -to creep through our lines. I know<span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_136"></a>[136]</span> how to appreciate and reward -bravery, and would like to number you among my men. If you will come -over to us I will give you a yearly stipend of 1,000 <i>koku</i><a id="FNanchor_4" href="#Footnote_4" class="fnanchor">4</a> of rice. -If you refuse you die.”</p> - -<p>Pretending to be pleased with the offer Katsutaka accepted it with many -expressions of gratitude. He was thinking that by doing this he might -put his captors off their guard and be able to escape, or in some way -render a service to those shut up in the castle.</p> - -<p>“You do me too much honour, Your Excellency,” he said. “I am but a -humble private but I will use all diligence to serve you faithfully.”</p> - -<p>“I am glad you are troubled by no foolish scruples as to desertion,” -said the general, who nevertheless was somewhat surprised at the ready -acceptance of his proposal. “There is something I desire you to do at -once to prove your sincerity.”</p> - -<p>In a low voice General Katsuyori gave an order to an <i>aide-de-camp</i>, -who retired and after a little time came back with a written paper -which he handed to his chief. It purported to be a letter from -Sadayoshi to his son,<span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_137"></a>[137]</span> informing him that, on account of a sudden -outbreak of insurrection, Lord Tokugawa was unable to despatch troops -to the relief of the Castle of Nagashino and that there was nothing to -be done but to give it up on the best terms available. The letter was -a skilful imitation of Sadayoshi’s hand, for it had been written by an -officer who had once served under him and who was well acquainted with -his style.</p> - -<p>Showing the forgery to Katsutaka with no little pride, Katsuyori said:—</p> - -<p>“Now, my man, you must write another letter to confirm the intelligence -contained in this one, and both letters shall be at once shot over the -walls. What! do you hesitate?”</p> - -<p>Seeing no course open to him but to obey, Katsutaka did as required. -The two missives were then fastened to an arrow and shot into the -castle by a skilled archer.</p> - -<p>The consternation and disappointment of the expectant garrison can be -better imagined than described. All the more bitter was this news from -the hope that had preceded it. Strong men wept.</p> - -<p>But Okudaira Jiyemon, chief Councillor, having closely examined the -letters, burst out laughing.</p> - -<p class="pagenum"><a id="Page_138"></a>[138]</p> - -<p>“It is hardly an occasion for mirth, Jiyemon,” said Sadamasa, much -displeased at this untimely merriment. “May I inquire the nature of the -joke?”</p> - -<p>“Ha, ha, ha! I beg your lordship’s pardon, but Katsuyori is a dull -fellow to imagine we could be taken in so easily. Be so good as to look -at this paper—it is not the kind manufactured in this province such as -our lord always uses, but in theirs. That one fact gives them away. -Never fear, my lord! Take my word for it, Katsutaka’s signals told the -truth. This is but a plot to deceive us into surrendering before help -comes.”</p> - -<p>It was now plain to all that the letters were not genuine and their -spirits again rose. Going up to the high tower Sadamasa called so that -the sentinels on the other side could hear him.</p> - -<p>“Soldiers of Kai, approach! I have something to say in answer to the -letters sent me but now. Request an officer to come near enough to hear -my words.”</p> - -<div class="figcenter"> -<p class="center mt2"><span id="img138"> - <img src="images/ill_138.jpg" class="illowp90" alt="Man stands facing the gate on the other side of a moat"> -</span></p> -<p class="center caption">He raised his voice so that every word rang clear and -distinct</p> -</div> - -<p class="mt2">Nothing doubting but that Sadamasa wished to make terms of surrender, -Katsuyori himself came forth, attended by his suite.</p> - -<p>“Accept my best thanks for your arrow-letters,” began Sadamasa -politely. “It was good of you to pass<span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_139"></a>[139]</span> on my father’s communication -and I am much obliged to you.” Then suddenly changing his tone, “Do you -think,” he thundered, “that such a clumsy trick could deceive us or -induce me to give up the stronghold of my ancestors? Fools! The laugh -is on our side! Ha, ha, ha!”</p> - -<p>“Ha, ha, ha!” roared the men behind him greatly enjoying the -discomfiture of the men below.</p> - -<p>Katsuyori was furious.</p> - -<p>“Go, Katsutaka,” he shouted. “Go to the edge of the moat and tell them -that no reinforcements are coming—that they must surrender!”</p> - -<p>Guarded by two men, for he had not yet been set at liberty, Katsutaka -stepped forward to the edge of the moat, and raising his voice so that -every word rang clear and distinct:—</p> - -<p>“Listen, my lord, and comrades,” he said. “What I tell you is the -truth. Lord Tokugawa and the two Lords Oda, with an allied army of -70,000 men are hastening to your rescue. They will be here to-morrow -without fail. The arrow-letters are utterly false. Rest assured!”</p> - -<p>So wholly unexpected was this bold speech that no one thought of -stopping it till the mischief was done.<span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_140"></a>[140]</span> As a mighty cheer -went up from the besieged, however, the infuriated soldiers of the -investing army seized Katsutaka and in mad fury kicked and cuffed -him mercilessly. Then at Katsuyori’s command they crucified him just -opposite the main gate of the castle he had given his life to save.</p> - - -<p class="tbreak">Early the next morning the allied forces came and the Kai army being -utterly routed, the siege was raised.</p> - -<div class="footnote_1"> -<a id="Footnote_4" href="#FNanchor_4" class="fnanchor">4</a> -A koku is about four bushels; in feudal days it was customary to pay -the samurai in rice. -</div> - - - - -<div class="chapter"> -<p class="pagenum"><a id="Page_143"></a>[143]</p> -<h2 class="nobreak">THE WRESTLING OF A DAIMIO</h2> -<hr class="chap x-ebookmaker-drop"> -</div> - - -<p class="drop-cap">IN the second month of the fifteenth year of Tenshō (<span class="smcap">a.d. </span>1587), -Toyotomi Hideyoshi, who had brought the greater part of Japan under his -sway, crossed over to the Island of Kyūshiū with a large army, in order -to subjugate Shimazu Yoshihisa, an independent daimio governing eight -of the nine provinces that form the island. The following month Gamō -Ujisato, a renowned general in Hideyoshi’s army, advanced to the Castle -of Ganshaku in the province of Buzen, and attacked it fiercely for -three successive days. The garrison, however, offered such a stubborn -resistance that little impression was made; and it seemed unlikely -that the fortress would fall into the hands of the besiegers for some -time. Ujisato, being a man of impetuous and fiery disposition, lost all -patience, and rated his men soundly.</p> - -<p>“Cowards!” he shouted. “How is it you are so long in taking such an -insignificant place? Have you all turned women? I will take the castle -single-handed!”</p> - -<p class="pagenum"><a id="Page_144"></a>[144]</p> - -<p>He dashed to the front, spurring his steed recklessly forward in the -very teeth of a volley of arrows and bullets that was directed at him. -But as he neared the ramparts a shot struck his horse in the abdomen -causing it, with a scream of agony, to rear itself up on its hind legs -and throw its rider backwards off the saddle. At the instant, the gate -of the castle was flung open, and a number of men rushed out. The -fallen warrior encompassed by the foe thought his end had come, when -a giant clad in black armour and mounted on a great chestnut horse -dashed to the rescue. With mighty strokes he cut and hewed right and -left, scattering the enemy like leaves before the wind of autumn. Some -fell dead beneath the hoofs of his horse, others took to their heels -and regained the shelter of the walls. Nishimura Gonshirō did not -trouble himself to follow the fugitives, but leaping from his charger -hastened to raise his chief. Ujisato was but slightly wounded, and with -Gonshirō’s help was able to mount the latter’s horse.</p> - -<p>“A thousand thanks, my gallant fellow,” he said, gathering up the -reins. “But for you I should by this time have been a dead man. I shall -never forget you have saved my life this day, and it will be my<span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_145"></a>[145]</span> -great pleasure after the war to express my gratitude in some tangible -form.”</p> - -<p>The example of Gonshirō’s heroic deed seemed to put new spirit into -Ujisato’s men, and with greater determination and bravery they stormed -the castle. As a result in the course of a few hours the garrison was -obliged to surrender, and before many days had elapsed all Kyūshiū had -submitted to Hideyoshi’s rule.</p> - -<p>When quiet was restored Hideyoshi bestowed rewards on all the daimios -who had fought for him, and Ujisato was promoted to the Governorship -of Matsuzaka Castle in the province of Isé with an annual income of -300,000 <i>koku</i> of rice.</p> - -<p>All in their turns, and according to their degrees, Ujisato rewarded -those of his vassals who had distinguished themselves under his -leadership. Some were given handsome gifts; others had their stipends -raised. Gonshirō who considered he had done a greater deed than any of -the others, seeing that he had saved his master’s life at the risk of -his own, naturally expected to receive some special favour. But greatly -to his surprise and chagrin no acknowledgment was made. What could be -the reason?</p> - -<p>At first he felt no little resentment and brooded over<span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_146"></a>[146]</span> this -neglect. But after a time, being a man who cared little for gain, he -let the affair fade from his mind though he still felt sore when he -happened to think of it.</p> - -<p>Meanwhile the summer had come and gone, and now the 15th of September -was here. The night of all the year on which the atmosphere in Japan is -most translucent and the moon shines with the greatest brilliancy. The -night when men of a poetic turn sit up into the small hours composing -verses on the beauty of the scene, the while they sip <i>saké</i> from -delicate porcelain cups to aid the fickle muse. On this night therefore -Ujisato gave a “moon-viewing party,” inviting a large number of his -retainers to a banquet in the main hall of his castle.</p> - -<p>The witching light of the full moon wrapt the stern old pile; the tiny -ripples on the moat glistened like liquid gold; the crickets shrilled -musically among the tall grasses. The sliding screens had been removed -and the calm beauty without softened and impressed the hearts of the -sturdy warriors inured to scenes so different of bloodshed and the din -of battle. Now it was that charmed by the loveliness around them many -began to compose verses in adoration of the scene, and<span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_147"></a>[147]</span> Ujisato’s -were among the best. But after a time the <i>saké</i> of which they partook, -not sparingly, went to their heads, and it is not surprising that some -of the would-be poets became a little elevated. The talk turned to -tales of war and one and another recounted deeds of prowess performed -by himself in the face of danger and difficulty. Nor was the host, Lord -Ujisato himself, above a little boasting in his cups and it was thus he -spoke:—</p> - -<p>“Listen, my friends,” he began. “Do you remember the fierce assault -of the Castle of Ganshaku at the beginning of this year? The mere -mention of it makes my blood boil! We attacked the castle three days -without a break yet could make no headway. You men lost heart. To rouse -you to a final effort I rode up to the gate alone—alone, in the face -of the enemy amid a perfect hailstorm of missiles. A bullet struck -my horse and he fell—I under him. Seizing the opportunity the enemy -poured out and surrounded me nine or ten deep—I determined to sell my -life dear” ... here the narrator paused to wipe his face from which -the perspiration was streaming from the energy with which he spoke. -Gonshirō’s heart leapt, he bent forward his face eager—now, at last his -lord was about<span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_148"></a>[148]</span> to reward his patient waiting and acknowledge his -service before all men.</p> - -<p>“To sell my life dear,” repeated Ujisato with gleaming eyes. “So I -fought as I had never done before with the courage of despair. Some I -cut down, others I put to flight, finally I succeeded in remounting my -horse and rode into the castle before the enemy could close the gates -against me. Seeing my intrepid action you were inspired by my spirit, -and following closely on my heels, you all did your best and the -fortress was taken.”</p> - -<p>Thus did Ujisato omit all mention of Gonshirō and overlook his gallant -deed. This base ingratitude was more than the faithful retainer could -bear!</p> - -<p>“Gonshirō begs permission to speak a word, your lordship,” he said -brusquely.</p> - -<p>“By all means,” assented Ujisato. “What is it?”</p> - -<p>“Forgive me, your lordship, but what you said just now is hardly -correct.”</p> - -<p>“What! You imply I spoke an untruth!”</p> - -<p>“Yes, your lordship. You talk as if you had ridden into the castle -unaided. That is not true. When you fell from your horse and were -surrounded by the enemy’s men I hastened to your rescue and it was -my<span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_149"></a>[149]</span> horse on which I assisted you to mount. By my timely help you -were enabled to ride into the castle. It is but bare justice that you -should amend your statement and acknowledge that you were saved from -certain death by Gonshirō, your lordship.”</p> - -<p>This bold speech caused no little stir amongst the guests. Many of -those present could bear witness to the truth of the rough soldier’s -words. They waited with bated breath for what would follow.</p> - -<p>Ujisato was moved to make a frank avowal. It had long been in his -mind to requite Gonshirō’s great service by a suitable reward, and it -was his intention to appoint him governor of the castle of Tagé which -was a small fortress attached to the large castle of Matsuzaka where -he himself resided. But Tagé Castle occupied a naturally strong site -and stood in relation to the greater castle in such a situation that -if a rebellion broke out in it, or if it were taken by an enemy, the -safety of Matsuzaka would be immediately threatened. It was of the -first importance, therefore, that it should be placed in the hands -of an absolutely trustworthy man, and the cautious Ujisato wished -to be quite sure of the loyalty of Gonshirō and to test him to the -utmost<span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_150"></a>[150]</span> before putting him in a position of so much importance and -responsibility.</p> - -<p>“Silence, Gonshirō!” thundered the daimio, keeping up the part he had -decided to play a little longer. “How dare you say such a thing of your -lord! Liar! I have no recollection of being saved by you or by any one -else.”</p> - -<p>“Strange, my lord! Your words at the time were, ‘A thousand thanks, -Gonshirō! But for you I should have been dead by now. I shall never -forget what you have done and after the war I will give you a reward.’ -I want no reward—I am a plain soldier with neither wife nor child—but -it is unbearable that you should thus ignore my service. It is an -undoubted fact, my lord, that I did save your life and thus opened the -way for our troops to take the castle of Ganshaku.”</p> - -<p>“It is a lie! You did not save my life.”</p> - -<p>“It is the truth! I did save you!”</p> - -<p>“You are drunk; you do not know what you are saying. I repeat, you did -not save my life!”</p> - -<p>Gonshirō’s blood was up. He threw discretion to the winds.</p> - -<p>“Ingrate and liar! I did save your life!”</p> - -<p>“A lie!”</p> - -<p class="pagenum"><a id="Page_151"></a>[151]</p> - -<p>Ujisato frowned darkly and seemed about to have the daring offender -punished as he deserved, but apparently changing his mind, he laughed -good-humouredly and:—</p> - -<p>“Look here, Gonshirō,” he said, “you insist that you saved me; I deny -it. At this rate there can be no end of the matter for each holds to -his own opinion. But to settle the question once for all let us have a -wrestling bout, you and I. If I am beaten I will admit that you saved -me as you aver, and prostrating myself before you with both hands on -the ground I will humbly beg your pardon for what I have said. That -will be as great an humiliation as removing one’s helmet on the field -of battle and surrendering to the foe. On the other hand, should you -be thrown you will be branded as a liar and ordered to commit -<i>seppuku</i>. Will you wrestle with me on those conditions?”</p> - -<p>The guests were amazed. One whispered to another.</p> - -<p>“What a proposal!”</p> - -<p>“Monstrously unfair!”</p> - -<p>“One contestant risks his life, the other a mere apology!”</p> - -<p>“What are the chances?”</p> - -<p>“Gonshirō is the better man.”</p> - -<p class="pagenum"><a id="Page_152"></a>[152]</p> - -<p>“There I disagree with you—our lord has the greater skill. I wager his -lordship will win.”</p> - -<p>“Gonshirō will never accept such conditions—they are too unequal!”</p> - -<p>While these whispers were going round Gonshirō with head bent took an -instant’s thought. Then he looked up, stern defiance in his eye.</p> - -<p>“My lord,” he said, “I take up your challenge! I accept your conditions -unfair though they be. I am a samurai and as such shrink from no -danger. Strong in the truth of my cause I will wrestle with you.”</p> - -<p>“Good! At once. Prepare!”</p> - -<p>“Your lordship, I am ready.”</p> - -<p>A space was cleared in the centre of the hall whilst the two champions -divested themselves of all unnecessary clothing. Then the struggle -began, and being well-nigh equally matched for some time neither -gained any advantage over his opponent. At last, however, with a loud -shout Gonshirō managed to twist his body, and by a dexterous movement -raised his adversary on his shoulders, to throw him by a supreme effort -down on to the mats at a distance of eight or nine feet. Ujisato -swooned, and great was the consternation with which all rushed to his -assistance. Restoratives were administered<span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_153"></a>[153]</span> and to the relief -of the company consciousness soon returned. The defeated combatant -was able, leaning on the arm of an attendant, to retire to his own -private apartments. The banquet, of course, was abandoned, most of the -guests returning home. Gonshirō left the castle in great dejection and -exasperation.</p> - -<div class="figcenter"> -<p class="center mt2"><span id="img153"> - <img src="images/ill_153.jpg" class="illowp90w" alt="Gonshirō throwing Ujisato"> -</span></p> -<p class="center caption">Gonshirō threw him by a supreme effort down on to - the mats</p> -</div> - -<p class="mt2">“What a fool my lord has shown himself,” were his thoughts. “I could -never have conceived it of him. I will remain in his service no longer. -It is not on this place alone that the sun shines. A man of my prowess -can find a billet anywhere. Heigh ho! I will go and seek service with -some other daimio—some one I can respect more than I can my Lord -Ujisato.”</p> - -<p>Having made up his mind it did not take Gonshirō long to get ready. At -midnight he stole secretly away intending never to return.</p> - -<p>The next morning all the samurai made their appearance at the castle to -enquire after the health of their lord—all that is, but Gonshirō. The -daimio who had quite recovered himself noticed his absence and calling -Gamō Gonzaemon, one of his <i>karō</i>, or chief councillors, he asked what -had become of him.</p> - -<p>“I beg to inform, your lordship,” replied the <i>karō</i>, “I have just -heard a report that he has not been seen<span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_154"></a>[154]</span> this morning and it -is surmised that he has run away in consequence of the unfortunate -occurrence of last evening.”</p> - -<p>“If that is true,” exclaimed Ujisato, “I am indeed sorry. I did but -dissimulate in order to test his fidelity, and if my words have lost me -a good retainer I shall be much grieved. Order a search to be made and -when he is found bring him instantly before me. Tell him I did but jest -and that he shall have a liberal reward for the service he did me. Go -at once, Gonzaemon; he cannot have gone far.”</p> - -<p>So the missing samurai was sought for in every likely and unlikely -place, but without success. Nothing was seen or heard of him for many a -long day.</p> - -<p class="tbreak">An emaciated, shabbily dressed <i>rōnin</i><a id="FNanchor_5" href="#Footnote_5" class="fnanchor">5</a> carrying two swords with worn -and ragged hilt-strings and rusty scabbards, and having on his dusty -feet well-worn straw sandals, walked up, with the swagger peculiar to -his caste, to the front door of Gonzaemon’s residence.</p> - -<p>“Insolent fellow!” cried the attendant whose business it was to answer -the door. “This is not the place for<span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_155"></a>[155]</span> you. If you would ask alms go -to the back.”</p> - -<p>“I am no beggar to crave for alms,” replied the stranger proudly. “I -am one Nishimura Gonshirō, till three years ago in the service of Lord -Ujisato. I have come to speak a word with your master. Kindly inform -his honour of my visit.”</p> - -<p>Gonzaemon was delighted to hear of the return of the long vainly sought -absentee. To the disgust of the usher who looked with disdain on the -dirty and travel-worn appearance of the guest, he was admitted into the -inner guest chamber. After a cordial greeting Gonzaemon asked:—</p> - -<p>“And how have you been getting along since you left us so suddenly, -Gonshirō?”</p> - -<p>“But badly, your honour. They say ‘a faithful servant never serves -two masters,’ but my case has been different. You see, I forsook my -lord and of my own will became a <i>rōnin</i>. Hoping to enter the service -of a more honourable chief I travelled from one province to another. -But I was always unfortunate. Those whom I would have chosen to serve -would have none of me—a deserter from another clan; those who would -have accepted me were not good enough to suit my taste. After long and -bitter experiences I have come to the<span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_156"></a>[156]</span> conclusion that there is no -daimio so worthy of allegiance as my former master, Lord Gamō. So I -have come back to see if he will overlook my bad conduct in the past -and let me re-enter his ranks. Of course, I do not expect to receive -my former pay. I shall be grateful and more than satisfied if he will -let me wait upon him as a humble attendant. Will you be so kind as to -intercede for me?”</p> - -<p>“You have done right to come back,” answered the <i>karō</i>, kindly. “Sooth -to say, our lord has greatly regretted his foolish jest and has caused -strict search to be made to discover your whereabouts and if possible -get you to return. He will rejoice to hear my news. Wait here and -refresh yourself while I go and tell him.”</p> - -<p>Gonzaemon did not keep his visitor waiting long. He told Gonshirō that -his lordship was pleased that he had come back and desired to see him -at once.</p> - -<p>“Excuse my mentioning such a thing,” continued, the <i>karō</i>, “but your -garments are worn and travel-stained. May I not accommodate you with a -change of apparel before you present yourself before his lordship?”</p> - -<p>“On no account,” returned the samurai. “You are<span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_157"></a>[157]</span> very kind, but -allow me to go as I am. My shabby condition will give my lord some idea -of the hardships I have undergone as a <i>rōnin</i>.”</p> - -<p>“As you please, my independent fellow!”</p> - -<p>The two men so different in aspect went up to the castle and waited in -an ante-room till summoned to Lord Gamō’s presence.</p> - -<p>“Ah, Gonshirō!” he called out genially. “I am mightily glad to see you -again. You were too hasty in running away. I was but teasing you and -you took my words in bitter earnest. I hope you will take your old -place and serve me as faithfully as before.”</p> - -<p>“Your kind words overwhelm me, your lordship,” said Gonshirō humbly. -“I have no words in which to express my sense of your clemency. I will -henceforth serve you to the uttermost of my ability.”</p> - -<p>The good-natured Gonzaemon was delighted to witness this reconciliation -between chief and vassal. The daimio ordered a feast to be prepared in -honour of the occasion, and presently, over the good cheer, they all -became very merry. It was not long before Ujisato began, as on a former -occasion, to talk rather boastfully of his exploits and his prowess on -the field.</p> - -<p>“Gonshirō, when I wrestled with you that time, we<span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_158"></a>[158]</span> all remember, -I was beaten because I was half intoxicated,” he said. “Since then -my health has much improved and I am much heavier and stronger than -before. On the other hand, your many hardships have greatly reduced you -and you are a mere shadow of your former self. Should we try a bout -now, you would have no chance at all.”</p> - -<p>It might have been thought that learning wisdom from bitter experience -Gonshirō would have had the sense to agree with his lord’s words, and -to have said “That is very true, your lordship. It was but by a fluke -that I won before; I should have not the slightest chance now.” But -foolish fellow that he was, he forgot everything but the supposed -aspersion on his strength and skill which he could not allow to pass -unchallenged.</p> - -<p>“I am very thin as your lordship truly observes,” he said bluntly, -“but my strength is unabated. It is fitting that a samurai should be -stronger than his chief. My muscles were hardened in many a field of -battle and in friendly contests—they are like wires. Excuse me, but I -could not be thrown though five—nay ten—men of your weight should set -upon me at the same time.”</p> - -<p>“What, braggart! You still boast of your strength!<span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_159"></a>[159]</span> Well, if you -are so sure of yourself you shall wrestle with me again.”</p> - -<p>“With pleasure, your lordship!” said the undaunted samurai.</p> - -<p>“Get ready!”</p> - -<p>“I am ready, your lordship.”</p> - -<p>With these words the two men rose and prepared for the struggle. -Gonzaemon wondered at their infatuation. For years Ujisato had -regretted the act that had cost him a faithful retainer. For years -Gonshirō had wandered a <i>rōnin</i>, homeless, and often without food. -Chief and vassal had become reconciled and all was going well, when, -for the sake of a little paltry pride, this happy state of things was -again endangered and a permanent estrangement might be the result. He -strove to remonstrate but neither would listen. All he could do was -to advise Gonshirō, by dumb signs, to allow himself to be beaten; and -Gonshirō coming too late to a better understanding of his rash conduct -answered in the same manner, “I will.”</p> - -<p>Satisfied that he had averted a catastrophe, the <i>karō</i> offered to -act as umpire, standing up with an open fan in his hand. After the -preliminary moves the combatants grappled, and a hard tussle it was. -Gonshirō honestly<span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_160"></a>[160]</span> intended to let his master have the satisfaction -of winning. “But,” thought he, “if I let myself be thrown too easily -my lord will suspect something; besides I cannot let him think me -quite such a weakling as he would make out.” Warming to the fight he -again thought, “If I allow myself to be beaten, having strength to -win, I should be a contemptible creature selling himself for the sake -of his place and pay. Nothing disgraces a samurai so much as to be a -flatterer. ‘A man lives for but one generation, but a good name lives -forever.’ A good name is above all material rewards. I cannot pretend -defeat. I must do my best at all costs and come what may, throw my lord -again.”</p> - -<p>Hereupon he braced his feet and bent his body, and with a loud shout -shouldered his opponent, and threw him down three mats off just as he -had done before.</p> - -<p>The umpire never doubting that Gonshirō had followed his counsel and -that it was he who was thrown, ran forward, exclaiming:—</p> - -<p>“Well done, my lord! I never saw a better throw!”</p> - -<p>He had no time to say more before he found out his mistake. What was -his dismay to find that Gonshirō was again the victor and that it was -his lord who had thus a second time suffered a humiliating defeat. It -was<span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_161"></a>[161]</span> too exasperating! The same story over again.</p> - -<p>Now that his excitement had cooled down somewhat, Gonshirō was covered -with shame and mortification at what he had done.</p> - -<p>Ujisato rose without assistance and stamping his foot as though in rage -stalked off to an inner apartment.</p> - -<p>“Fool that I am, I have done it again!” cried Gonshirō in despair. “In -spite of your advice, in spite of my own determination, my vanity got -the upper hand and forgetting all else I committed this unpardonable -offence a second time. I will disembowel myself and I beg you to do me -the honour to witness the act!”</p> - -<p>So saying the unhappy man took up the short sword he had laid aside and -was on the point of plunging it into his body, when the sliding door -was hastily pushed open and Ujisato ran forward just in time to arrest -his arm.</p> - -<p>“Hold, hold! Gonshirō,” he cried. “You are always too impetuous. I do -not blame you for this—it is the true samurai spirit—the same spirit -that in spite of want, of hunger and rags, disdains to flatter for the -sake of gain. My brave fellow, I honour you for this! It might have -been that the hardships of the last three<span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_162"></a>[162]</span> years had changed your -character—that you might now have been willing to sell your honour -for my favour and worldly prosperity—so I feigned drunkenness and a -boastful spirit that once more I might challenge you to fight and thus -test you to the full. You have stood the test nobly. You disdained to -flatter even at such a cost. You are indeed the pattern of all that a -samurai should be! In recognition of your signal service to me at the -storming of the Castle of Ganshaku I appoint you Governor of the Castle -of Tagé with a stipend of 10,000 <i>koku</i>. As a reward for throwing me -to-day in the face of every temptation to do otherwise I give you a -further stipend of 1,000 <i>koku</i>; and in acknowledgment of the defeat -I sustained at your hands three years ago you shall have yet another -1,000. Here is your writ of appointment.”</p> - -<p>At this unexpected magnanimity on the part of his lord even Gonshirō, -hardened warrior though he was, could not restrain his tears.</p> - -<p class="tbreak">In the years following, Gonshirō served his chief, Lord Gamō, -faithfully and with devotion. When Ujisato was poisoned through the -wiles of an adversary<span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_163"></a>[163]</span> his loyal vassal killed himself in order to -accompany his dearly loved master to Hades.</p> - -<div class="footnote_1"> -<a id="Footnote_5" href="#FNanchor_5" class="fnanchor">5</a> -A samurai who had renounced his clan and become a wanderer. -</div> - - - - -<div class="chapter"> -<p class="pagenum"><a id="Page_167"></a>[167]</p> -<h2 class="nobreak">THE STORY OF KIMURA SHIGENARI</h2> -<hr class="chap x-ebookmaker-drop"> -</div> - -<p class="subchap">I.</p> - -<p class="drop-cap">IN the eighteenth year of Keichō (<span class="smcap">a.d.</span> 1613) Toyotomi Hideyoshi had -been dead fourteen years and his son, Hideyori, now two and twenty -should have been ruling over Japan as Regent in his stead. But his -adherents had sustained a crushing defeat at the hands of the troops -of his rival, Tokugawa Iyeyasu, at the battle of Sekigahara, and the -tide of fortune had turned from him. All the daimios had given in their -allegiance to Iyeyasu, and he was appointed Shogun by the Emperor. A -few years later he abdicated in favour of his son Hidetada, though -in reality he still steered the ship of state. On the other hand -Hideyori’s star had been fast declining. He was now merely the Lord of -Settsu and Kawachi, comparatively, small provinces, with the honorary -title of “Minister of the Right.” Nevertheless, in his stronghold, -the “impregnable” Castle of Osaka, built by his father, Hideyoshi, -at an enormous cost, there were still, it is said, some 100,000<span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_168"></a>[168]</span> -men, among whom were many brave and loyal officers such as Katagiri -Katsumoto, Sanada Yukimura, Suzukida Hayato and Kimura Shigenari, the -last of whom is the hero of this story.</p> - -<p>A few powerful daimios, remembering with gratitude the great favours -they had received from Hideyoshi, in secret still adhered to the cause -of his son and watched for an opportunity to strike for the restoration -of the Toyotomis’ power and prestige. Iyeyasu, with his accustomed keen -insight, perceived the situation and determined by one stroke to settle -matters once for all. This was the state of affairs between the two -great families, and it was felt that hostilities might break out again -at any moment.</p> - - -<p class="tbreak">Shigenari now twenty years of age had served Hideyori as page and -attendant since his childhood. His intelligence and loyalty, above all, -his prowess in arms and knowledge of tactics had just led Hideyori’s -Prime Councillor, Katagiri Katsumoto, to promote him over the heads -of some older men to a high rank in the army, with the title of -Nagato-no-Kami, or Lord of Nagato province, and an annual allowance of -7,000 <i>koku</i><span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_169"></a>[169]</span> of rice. Mano Yorikané, one of Hideyori’s veteran -generals, admiring his courage and sterling character, gave tangible -proof of his admiration by bestowing his beautiful and accomplished -daughter, Aoyagi, on him for a wife.</p> - -<p>With all his manly attributes and physical strength, Shigenari was -exceptionally handsome, of a slender build, and possessed of a gentle -graceful manner. At first glance it was his beauty and refinement that -struck the beholder, not his strength and ability. For this reason -those of the warriors who had not had opportunity to witness his skill -as a soldier were inclined to regard his sudden promotion with wonder -and some suspicion, one or two even going so far as to say—behind -his back—“Shigenari is esteemed above his merits. He is effeminate -and gentle; in war he will show cowardice and fly from the sounds of -strife.” Among the backbiters was a <i>chabōzu</i> or “tea-priest”<a id="FNanchor_6" href="#Footnote_6" class="fnanchor">6</a> called -Yamazoé Ryōkwan, a notorious bully and drunkard. Possessing undoubted -skill in military arts and great muscular strength, he was apt to be -boastful; and the idea seized him to pick a quarrel with Shigenari<span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_170"></a>[170]</span> -and thereby to provoke a contest between them and humiliate the courtly -hero.</p> - -<p>With this object Ryōkwan one day hid himself behind a screen; and as -Shigenari passed hurriedly along the matted corridor on his way to the -audience chamber, the tea-priest suddenly thrust his sheathed sword in -his way. The surprised warrior leapt lightly over it, but the skirt of -his <i>hakama</i> touched it as he did so. Ryōkwan sprang out of ambush.</p> - -<p>“Kimura Dono, you go too fast!” he shouted angrily. Shigenari turned -back.</p> - -<p>“Excuse my rudeness,” he said courteously.</p> - -<p>“Your apology is too late! It came only after my demand.”</p> - -<p>“Forgive my double rudeness, Yamazoé, I was in such haste that I did -not consider. Excuse me!”</p> - -<p>“You speak like a fool! If you are late it is your own fault, and do -you think you may tread on my sword with impunity? It is true that I -am a tea-priest and your inferior in rank, yet I also am a samurai! A -samurai’s sword is his soul. You have trodden on my soul, and such an -insult is inexcusable! Out of malice you did it. I challenge you to a -duel!”</p> - -<p>“You speak wildly; why should I bear malice<span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_171"></a>[171]</span> towards you, or wish -to insult you?”</p> - -<p>“Then why did you tread on my sword?”</p> - -<p>“I have already explained;—because I am in haste to present myself to -my lord.”</p> - -<p>“Then allow me to do to you what I choose and I will accept your -apology.”</p> - -<p>“By all means; do to me as you wish.”</p> - -<p>“I will take that!” and he struck a blow at Shigenari’s cheek with all -the force of his bare hand.</p> - -<p>Shigenari smiled.</p> - -<p>“Thank you for your chastisement!” he said, and went on his way.</p> - -<p>Ryōkwan now strutted arrogantly about the castle, giving every one -he met a highly-coloured account of what had occurred, and calling -Shigenari “a white-livered samurai.” Those who were jealous of -Shigenari’s promotion repeated the story in still more exaggerated -terms, in consequence of which many samurai who had no real knowledge -of the young officer’s character believed the tale and laughed to scorn -his supposed pusillanimity. Shigenari knew all about this, but did not -let it disturb him at all.</p> - -<p>Not so his father-in-law, Yorikané. Being fiery-tempered and extremely -punctilious concerning points<span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_172"></a>[172]</span> of honour, he no sooner heard of the -incident than he hurried to Shigenari’s residence and demanded to see -him.</p> - -<p>“Welcome, father-in-law,” said the young man composedly. “Pray sit -down.”</p> - -<p>“Sit down? No, I cannot sit down, and never again call me ‘father.’ I -have come to tell you that you must divorce my daughter at once.”</p> - -<p>“This is very sudden! What reason can you give for your strange -request?”</p> - -<p>“Fool that I was to give my daughter to a white-livered samurai such as -you!”</p> - -<p>“Ha! Do you use such a term of me!”</p> - -<p>“You feign ignorance! Well, then, I will tell you why men call you a -coward. Listen! It is said you let your cheek be struck by that low -tea-priest a day or two ago and he still lives to tell the tale! Has it -passed from your mind so soon? Ah, I see you recollect it!”</p> - -<p>“Surely, I remember that Ryōkwan struck my cheek with his hand, but -what of it!”</p> - -<p>“What of it? What of it? Can a samurai receive a deadly insult like -that and suffer it to pass unnoticed!<span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_173"></a>[173]</span> Coward! How came you to -permit him to do it in the first instance?”</p> - -<p>“Ryōkwan put his sword in my way as I was hurrying to the presence of -my lord; the hem of my <i>hakama</i> just touched it as I passed over but -the man insisted that I had trodden on it and by design. It is evident -he meant to pick a quarrel with me in any case. I apologised, but he -refused to listen. Deeming it waste of time to argue with a bully, -to end the matter as speedily as possible, I let him strike me as he -wished. That is the whole affair.”</p> - -<p>“Indolent coward!” exclaimed Yorikané, more incensed now that he -heard Shigenari’s account than he had been before. “Ryōkwan is a mere -tea-priest, and you are a samurai of high rank in close attendance on -our lord. There can be no comparison as to your respective standing—you -should have killed him on the spot. Your conduct is totally -inexplicable!”</p> - -<p>“You are mistaken, father, when you say I should have killed him.”</p> - -<p>“How? There can be no two opinions on the matter. Where is your sense -of honour? I will waste no more words on you. Let my daughter return -home at once. I am ashamed to be called your father-in-law.”</p> - -<p class="pagenum"><a id="Page_174"></a>[174]</p> - -<p>“Calm yourself, father, and hear me for but a moment. Do you imagine I -overlooked Ryōkwan’s insolent behaviour because I was afraid of him?”</p> - -<p>“What else can I think?”</p> - -<p>“Then listen. Recollect, father, that a samurai’s life is not his -own—it belongs to his liege lord. Judging from the strained relations -between our clan and the Tokugawas hostilities may break out at any -time....” here Shigenari’s brow clouded and he sighed deeply; “Yes, -war may break out at any moment now, and on the result hangs the -future destiny of our lord and his clan. It is my intention to fight -to the utmost of my strength and ability to requite if it be but the -thousandth part of the many and great favours I have received from our -gracious master. I shall sell my blood dear for his cause. And this is -the bounden duty of every one of us, high and low alike. Our lives have -never been more precious—not one can be spared except for the cause. -If I had killed Ryōkwan out of resentment for a purely personal insult -what good would it have done? Though his rank is inferior to mine, he -is still a samurai; and as a samurai his death could not have been -passed over unnoticed. Besides, Ryōkwan, though in human form, is but -an insect in my estimation. It<span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_175"></a>[175]</span> would be derogatory for a samurai -to unsheathe his sword in anger against a mere insect! Therefore....”</p> - -<p>“Enough, enough!” interposed the impulsive Yorikané. “I understand; you -are right and I in my haste misjudged you entirely. Forgive me, and -forget my thoughtless words.”</p> - -<p>Shigenari smiled, well pleased at the reconciliation.</p> - -<p>“We are father and son again,” went on the older man. “I am proud of -the connection—you are a true samurai. But, tell me,” he added with a -chuckle. “You call Ryōkwan an insect; to what insect do you compare -him?”</p> - -<p>“To a fly,” answered Shigenari. “A fly alights on filth or on an -Emperor’s crown—it makes no distinction between good and bad, high -or low. But no one would call a fly an impolite insect. Looking on -Ryōkwan as a man one feels anger and disgust; consider he is but a fly -and it is unreasonable to have any such feelings, he is beneath them. -Therefore I take no notice of anything he can do or say.”</p> - -<p>“Well argued, Shigenari! What a noble-minded man you are! I admire -your wisdom and forbearance. As you say, the war cloud is fast -darkening over us and it behoves all loyal samurai to be on their -guard and not<span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_176"></a>[176]</span> waste their energies on petty quarrels of their -own. Again I ask your pardon for misconstruing your conduct. Though -younger in years, dear Shigenari, you are older than I in judgment and -forethought. Though old I am still as rash and impetuous as a boy.”</p> - -<p>More than satisfied with the explanation he had received, Yorikané -returned home, and thenceforth did his best to clear his son-in-law -from the imputation of cowardice. He spoke in glowing terms of -Shigenari’s real motive in his behaviour to the tea-priest, and -told in what light he regarded him. Public opinion is ever quick -to change; and those who had scoffed were soon loud in praise of -Shigenari’s self-repression and loyalty. Ryōkwan, on the other hand, -was universally laughed at and nicknamed the “Fly-priest.” As a natural -consequence, instead of repenting of his misdeed, Ryōkwan’s envy and -hatred of his superior increased, and he was ever on the watch for a -chance to vent his spite.</p> - -<p>There was a large bath-room in the castle which was used in common by -all. It was usual for the samurai on night duty to bathe several at the -same time. One evening Ryōkwan happened to see Shigenari going into the -bath-room, and thinking the time to satisfy his grudge had come, he -followed him unobserved. The<span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_177"></a>[177]</span> room was misty with the dense vapour -rising from the hot water, and four or five samurai were already in the -large square bath. Taking one of them to be Shigenari the tea-priest -approached, and mustering all his strength, struck his head a heavy -blow. The naked man sprang out of the water, and seizing Ryōkwan by -the collar, threw him on the floor where he returned the blow he had -received with compound interest.</p> - -<p>“I will teach you to strike a defenceless man without provocation!” he -roared. “Do you know who I am? Suzukida Hayato! Prepare for instant -death!” Then seeing who it was he was belabouring, he exclaimed in -astonishment:—</p> - -<p>“Why, it’s Ryōkwan, the contemptible Fly-priest! What is your object in -striking my head as you did? You will find that though you are only a -fly you cannot insult Suzukida with impunity!”</p> - -<p>Frightened almost out of his wits at the mention of the name Suzukida, -that of a hero renowned far and wide for his muscular strength, Ryōkwan -stammered out:—</p> - -<p>“I humbly beg your pardon, Suzukida Sama; it was a mistake. I should -never think of striking you, the blow was intended for Kimura -Shigenari. Spare my life, I implore you!”</p> - -<p class="pagenum"><a id="Page_178"></a>[178]</p> - -<p>But this speech only incensed Suzukida still further.</p> - -<p>“What?” he cried. “Would you strike your benefactor?—the man who -generously pardoned your outrageous conduct to him? Miscreant, I will -deal a blow for my friend Kimura. Die!”</p> - -<p>With these words Suzukida raised his iron fist and assuredly Ryōkwan’s -last hour had come had it not been that some one caught the hand before -it fell. Mad with rage Suzukida struggled to free himself but in -vain—he was held as in a vice. Twisting round he saw to his surprise -that his captor was none other than Shigenari himself.</p> - -<p>“Excuse my rudeness, Suzukida Dono. Without doubt it is as the coward -says—he mistook you for me, a circumstance for which I am extremely -sorry. It is natural you should resent such an insult, but if you -strike him with your fist you will kill him on the spot. He is my -enemy; may I request you to leave his chastisement to me?”</p> - -<p>“Of course,” replied Suzukida with a laugh and nod of assent as -Shigenari released him. “It is for you to deal with him as you think -best. I am told the fellow grows more arrogant and behaves with -increasing<span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_179"></a>[179]</span> rudeness to our comrades every day. I trust you will -see that he has cause to repent.”</p> - -<p>As soon as Suzukida had left the room, Shigenari helped Ryōkwan to get -up, and very kindly assisted him to his own chamber where he attended -to his bruises with great solicitude. When the tea-priest had recovered -somewhat, Shigenari said to him, gently remonstrant:—</p> - -<p>“How foolish it is of you, Ryōkwan, to be so proud of your strength -and in consequence to behave so arrogantly to your comrades and -superiors. A samurai should use his gifts for his lord’s service only. -You should exert yourself solely for the benefit of His Highness -Lord Hideyori. It is regrettable that you should waste your powers -in causeless quarrels and fights. It was fortunate for you that it -was I you insulted the other day; had it been some one else you would -undoubtedly have paid for it with your life on the instant. You have -superior muscular power and no little skill in the use of arms; now -that war is so imminent the life of every samurai is precious; that is -why I spared you—that you might live to serve in time of need. But you -did not understand my motive and sought occasion to insult me again. -How undiscriminating!<span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_180"></a>[180]</span> If I had not interceded for you just now you -would have died a useless death at the hands of Suzukida Dono. Is not -a purposeless death like that dishonour for a samurai? If you repent -your past mistakes I will ask Suzukida Dono to overlook and pardon your -rudeness, and I am sure he will not refuse. Will you not amend your -conduct and from henceforth direct all your energies to doing your very -best for our lord and his cause, Ryōkwan?”</p> - -<p>To this long speech delivered with a winning earnestness that pierced -him to the heart, Ryōkwan listened with bent head and averted eyes. A -few hot tears stole down his rough cheeks; he brushed them away with -his sleeve before he answered in a broken voice.</p> - -<p>“Every word you have uttered has cut me to the heart, Kimura Sama,” -he said. “Your kindness overwhelms me. I am deeply ashamed of myself, -and I now see how blind I was not to perceive your noble and unselfish -motives in the way you acted. Oh, that I might commit <i>seppuku</i> in -atonement! But to take my life would be in opposition to your kind -instruction: as you have pointed out it is the duty of us all to -live till we die in our lord’s cause.... If you can forgive me it is -my earnest desire that you will take me for<span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_181"></a>[181]</span> your own retainer. -Unworthy though I am, I entreat you will not deny my request.”</p> - -<p>Touched and pleased at the success of his remonstrance, Shigenari -gladly agreed to do as Ryōkwan asked. Having obtained permission from -Lord Hideyori, they exchanged vows as master and retainer; and thus the -brawling, overbearing drunkard of a tea-priest became a changed man, -and with all the strength of a strong nature devoted himself to the -service of the master he adored.</p> - -<p class="subchap">II.</p> - -<p>The year following the events just narrated, the strained relations -between the rivals, the Toyotomis and Tokugawas snapped, and as had -been foreseen war was declared. The Ex-Shogun Iyeyasu and the reigning -Shogun Hidetada with an army of 200,000 men lay siege to the Castle of -Osaka, though as yet they did not venture on very close quarters. The -besieged troops, though outnumbered by the enemy, were well commanded -by numerous veteran generals and defended themselves with courage -and skill. In several small engagements which took place without the -castle, Iyeyasu’s men, ensnared with artfully constructed stratagems, -suffered severe defeat. Above all they<span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_182"></a>[182]</span> sustained signal reverses -at the hands of Shigenari who manœuvered adroitly and fought bravely -with his company.</p> - -<p>The siege lasted several months and still the brave little garrison -held the enemy at bay. With each success their spirits rose. The shrewd -Iyeyasu, seeing the impossibility of taking the stronghold by force -and hopeless of starving it out, deemed it would be the best policy -to patch up peace in some way, and trust to the pride and arrogance -of the opposing faction to bring about their own downfall. Therefore, -most cunningly, through the Emperor’s mediation as it seemed, he -proposed, nay, almost dictated peace to Hideyori. Most of his generals, -including Sanada Yukimura, Chief of the General Staff, and Shigenari, -considering the present situation favourable to the triumph of their -side, emphatically opposed such a fatal act; but Hideyori’s infamous -and beautiful mother Madame Yodogimi who had great influence over her -son, being persuaded to that effect by her licentious and thoughtless -favourites who were weary of the confinement necessitated by the siege, -threw all the weight of her maternal authority on the acceptance of the -terms. Furthermore, the proposal coming from the highest<span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_183"></a>[183]</span> quarter -could hardly be slighted; therefore the defenders were almost without -option compelled to agree to the humiliating terms proposed, which were -that Hideyori should destroy the outer moat of his castle—to show the -sincerity of his peaceful intentions—while Iyeyasu, in return, should -cede to him the provinces of Kii and Yamato.</p> - -<p>A day was appointed for the formal signing of the treaty; and Shigenari -was nominated special envoy for the occasion, with Kōri Shumenosuké for -vice-envoy.</p> - -<p>Iyeyasu had the entrance to his camp strictly guarded; and with a -view to displaying his authority before all the daimios assembled to -witness the ceremony, he secretly instructed his most trusted generals -to humiliate the expected envoys as much as possible. These officers -who felt much chagrin at their frequent defeats were only too glad to -have opportunity to wreck vengeance on the enemy by affronting their -representatives.</p> - -<p>Shigenari and Shumenosuké arrived on horseback, escorted by a little -band of some eighty men. On their appearance before the camp of Tōdō -Takatora, the sentinels one after the other called out:—</p> - -<p class="pagenum"><a id="Page_184"></a>[184]</p> - -<p>“Halt, sirs! As His Highness’s camp is so near you must dismount.”</p> - -<p>Shumenosuké hurriedly pulled up and was about to get off his horse; but -his superior stopped him with a gesture, and looked haughtily at the -men in front. He cried loudly:—</p> - -<p>“We are Kimura Shigenari and Kōri Shumenosuké, the representatives of -Lord Toyotomi, Minister of the Right. No code of etiquette requires -anyone to dismount before his equal in rank. You are insolent! We -proceed.”</p> - -<p>Then Shigenari rode calmly forward followed by his suite.</p> - -<p>When the envoys came to General Ii’s camp his sentinels likewise -demanded that they should dismount.</p> - -<p>Giving the same reply as before, Shigenari, disregarding their attempts -to stop him, put spurs to his horse and rode on.</p> - -<p>At the camp of Lord Echigo more strenuous efforts were made to force -the strangers to proceed on foot. In great wrath Shigenari protested -against such unwarranted discourtesy.</p> - -<p>“What mean you by such conduct?” he cried. “Judging from our reception -I conclude it is the<span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_185"></a>[185]</span> intention of Iyeyasu to disregard the -Imperial mandate to make peace. Well, then, it is useless to go -further. We will return at once to the castle and report to our lord -the shameful treatment we have received!”</p> - -<p>So saying he turned his horse and was about to go back, when Lord -Echigo’s men seeing, they had gone too far, apologised profusely and -begged him to pass on to fulfil his mission.</p> - -<p>At length the envoys came to the entrance of the building where they -were to meet the great Ex-Shogun. Here they dismounted and carrying -their swords were about to enter when two ushers intercepted them, -crying:—</p> - -<p>“Your weapons must be left without!”</p> - -<p>In no wise discomposed Shigenari said sternly:—</p> - -<p>“It is a rule with a samurai never to leave his sword behind when he -goes into an enemy’s camp, on any pretext whatever.”</p> - -<p>This being an indisputable fact, the ushers could say no more, but -led them armed as they were to the spacious apartment which had been -prepared for the ceremony. A large number of daimios already occupied -their places on two sides of the room. With a manner composed and -dignified, Shigenari strode into the<span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_186"></a>[186]</span> assembly in no wit daunted by -the many hostile looks cast upon him, and took the seat to which he was -directed in the centre, facing at a short distance the dais prepared -for Iyeyasu when he should make his appearance.</p> - -<p>Shumenosuké closely followed the deportment of his chief, and took his -seat beside him.</p> - -<p>Two Masters of the Ceremonies informed them that His Highness would be -there presently. “And,” they added, “as it is disrespectful to carry -swords in his august presence you will kindly take them to the ante -chamber and leave them there.”</p> - -<p>“Disrespectful!” thundered Shigenari in tones that reverberated through -the hall. “To whom do you address such a word. Recollect that we are -the honourable representatives of the Minister of the Right! The -disrespect is on your side and if you repeat your insolence you will -have to answer for it!”</p> - -<p>And he glared so fiercely on the two officials that they withdrew in -consternation.</p> - -<p>In a short time Iyeyasu, accompanied by many attendants, made his -appearance and with impressive solemnity took his seat. All the daimios -bowed reverently, and awed by his majestic demeanor and the<span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_187"></a>[187]</span> -example of others, Shumenosuké did the same. But Shigenari deigned to -give the great statesman but the slightest acknowledgment and calmly -looked him straight in the face.</p> - -<p>“I am glad to see you, Shigenari,” said Iyeyasu mildly. “Thank you for -coming on this important mission. Your father Hitachi-no-suké and I -were intimate friends and I am much indebted to him.”</p> - -<p>“Pardon me, your Highness,” replied Shigenari, “but to-day I am the -messenger of the Minister of the Right and private matters are out of -place.”</p> - -<p>The tactful Iyeyasu, though put in the wrong, showed not the slightest -trace of embarrassment. Producing a document from a receptacle in his -hand, he passed it to Shigenari by an attendant and said quietly:—</p> - -<p>“Kindly see that this is correct, Shigenari.”</p> - -<p>Shigenari carefully read over the paper which ran as follows:—</p> - -<p>“In compliance with an Imperial Edict, Iyeyasu and Hideyori agree to -make peace, on the sole condition that Hideyori fill up the outer moat -of his castle as a token of his peaceful intentions. Either of the -parties concerned who first appeals to arms henceforth, shall<span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_188"></a>[188]</span> -be guilty of disobeying the Imperial Mandate and shall be treated -accordingly.</p> - -<p>“Keichō 19, 12th month, 27th day.”</p> - -<p>As he read Shigenari’s face grew darker and darker, and when he came -to the end he started to his feet and exclaimed indignantly:—</p> - -<p>“Are these your terms of peace, Your Highness? If so you have already -disobeyed the Imperial command! Prepare!”</p> - -<p>Sword in hand it seemed as if he were about to attack the old -statesman. All present started up and sought to intercept the thrust. -Iyeyasu, alarmed, raised both hands in deprecation and bade the young -man resume his seat.</p> - -<p>“Calm yourself, I pray you,” he said hastily. “Old age makes me -forgetful. By mistake I have shown you the wrong paper—here is the -right one.”</p> - -<p>The crafty statesman produced another document from the case he held -and handed it to Shigenari. It is hardly necessary to explain that this -was an artifice. Iyeyasu had caused to be prepared two documents in -different terms. Should the envoys accept the first in which all the -advantage was on his side his intention was to keep back the other in -which were stated the<span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_189"></a>[189]</span> real conditions of the treaty. Shigenari had -been too astute for him. He now examined the new document which read -thus:—</p> - -<p class="center mt1_5">“VOWS OF PEACE</p> - -<p class="hindent4">“Article I.—In compliance with an Imperial Command, Iyeyasu and -Hideyori vow to make peace and to enter into friendly relations.</p> - -<p class="hindent4">“Article II.—Hideyori shall destroy the outer moat of his Castle, and -Iyeyasu shall in return cede to him the provinces of Kii and Yamato by -January next.</p> - -<p class="hindent4">“Article III.—Immediately on the signing of the Vows of Peace, Iyeyasu -shall disband his army and depart for Yamato.</p> - -<p class="hindent4">“Article IV.—Either of the parties who violates the above vows and -resorts to arms shall be found guilty of disobedience to the Imperial -Command and shall be punished by the gods.</p> - -<p class="tlr">“Keichō 19, 12th month, 27th day.”</p> - -<p class="mt1_5">Shigenari read the paper carefully several times.</p> - -<p>“This is correct, Your Highness. Be pleased to put your signature and -seal.”</p> - -<p>Iyeyasu complied. The envoy receiving it back put<span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_190"></a>[190]</span> it into a bag -made of rich brocade. Then bowing courteously, he said gravely though -not without a touch of sarcasm:—</p> - -<p>“I beg to congratulate Your Highness.”</p> - -<p>Then turning to the assembled daimios he bowed to them also saying:—</p> - -<p>“I thank you for your attendance.”</p> - -<p>Receiving their salutations in return, he once more made an obeisance -to Iyeyasu.</p> - -<p>“Allow me to take my leave, Your Highness. Farewell, Your Highness and -your Excellencies.”</p> - -<p>With graceful courtesy he bowed once more and with his subordinate left -the audience-chamber. All were constrained to admire his noble bearing -and courage.</p> - -<p class="subchap">III.</p> - -<p>Hideyori faithfully observed his part of the “Vows of Peace,” and -the outer moat which had constituted the greatest element in the -“impregnability” of his castle was filled up and levelled with the -ground. But Iyeyasu who had never had the least intention of fulfilling -his part of the treaty held back the stipulated provinces in spite of -all the demands of Hideyori. Hence in the spring of the following year -hostilities<span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_191"></a>[191]</span> were resumed, and a great army commanded by Iyeyasu -once more invested the Castle of Osaka.</p> - -<p>The garrison made a stubborn resistance for some weeks but the fortress -was now shorn of its main protection, and most unfortunately the -discord between Madame Yodogimi’s favourite generals and the other -officers assumed formidable dimensions. In consequence, the defenders -were severely defeated in more than one engagement, and their numbers -were so greatly reduced that it was impossible for them to hold the -castle much longer.</p> - -<p>One night Sanada Yukimura, the Chief of the General Staff, met -Shigenari in secret.</p> - -<p>“It is not possible for us to hold out,” he said gloomily. “We must -effect the escape of our lord out of the castle and convey him to a -place of security—he can take refuge in the province of Lord Shimazu. -Through him we may be able to do something to retrieve our losses and -restore the power of our clan. Some of us must go with our chief, but -in order the more easily to get away the enemy must be deluded with -the idea that Hideyori and his bravest warriors have fallen; therefore -we must leave substitutes behind us who resemble us in some degree. -Their bodies will<span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_192"></a>[192]</span> be found, and the enemy will think we are dead and -not try to pursue us as they most certainly would do if they thought -we had fled. I have found my substitute; do you find yours. I must -regret that it is necessary for these men to sacrifice their lives for -ours, but we must all act for the future good of the clan to which we -owe allegiance—all personal considerations must give way. Do you not -approve of my plan?”</p> - -<p>“It is an excellent idea,” replied Shigenari, after some reflection. -“And I heartily approve of it. But if every experienced general leaves -the castle even though substitutes are left, the shrewd Iyeyasu -will soon suspect the truth. I at any rate must remain. I was seen -by Iyeyasu and his staff only a short time ago; they will not have -forgotten my features and cannot be deceived by another man clad in my -armour. Therefore, I leave the escort of our lord and the restoration -of the clan to you and the other generals. I will stay alone with the -garrison and fight to the last. My death and your life are equally -necessary for the sake of our lord. So do not seek to dissuade me. I am -resolved.”</p> - -<p>“A truly noble resolve, my friend,” said Yukimura with admiration. -“Would that I could remain with you! I am reluctant to leave you alone -and we shall<span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_193"></a>[193]</span> miss your help, but if you are determined to do -this thing far be it from me to dissuade you. It must be well-known -to the enemy that you are a favourite of our lord and always in close -attendance on his person; so when they find your dead body on the field -they will never suspect he has escaped. Your death in this way will be -the means of restoring the power of the Toyotomis. I could find it in -my heart to envy you, good comrade!”</p> - -<p>“Then that is settled. To-morrow I will charge the enemy’s line with my -men and divert his attention while the rest of you steal out from the -rear.”</p> - -<p>After a few words of affectionate farewell, the two men parted knowing -they would never meet again.</p> - - -<p class="tbreak">On retiring to his room for a brief rest, Shigenari spoke to his young -wife in his usual cheerful manner.</p> - -<p>“To-morrow our troops are going to make a sally that will effectually -dispose of the enemy,” he said. “On such a notable occasion I wish to -wear the armour my lord graciously gave me last year; pray bring it to -me.”</p> - -<p>When his wife brought it he took the helmet; and<span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_194"></a>[194]</span> burning some very -precious incense called <i>Ranjatai</i>, held the helmet so that the smoke -ascended into it. Aoyagi, divining from his manner that he had some -solemn motive for this action, felt her heart sink.</p> - -<p>“You intend to die fighting in to-morrow’s engagement:—is it not so, my -husband?”</p> - -<p>“Die fighting?” said Shigenari. “Why do you ask? Does not a soldier -always take his life in his hand when he goes to the field of battle?”</p> - -<p>“Yes, but there is some special reason why I think you will fall -to-morrow. I have often heard that a warrior burns incense into his -helmet when he is determined to die on the field. I know the castle -will fall before long and I am sure you mean to give up your life in -to-morrow’s battle. Do not seek to deceive me. I am the daughter of a -samurai. I will not let you die alone.”</p> - -<p>“My brave wife! Forgive my hesitation in disclosing to you my resolve. -I forebore to take you into my confidence fearing just this thing.”</p> - -<p>He then gave his wife an account of his conversation with Sanada -Yukimura and of their decision.</p> - -<p>“Though I give up my life for my lord,” he concluded. “Do not be so -rash as to die with me. It is<span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_195"></a>[195]</span> my wish that you should live and -pray for the prosperity of our lord. Live for his sake. It is my last -request.”</p> - -<p>“Your wish is my law,” answered his wife. “I will obey you. I know you -will die a glorious death and leave undying fame behind you!”</p> - -<p>Then Aoyagi brought <i>saké</i> and two tiny cups in which they drank -to their long farewell. That ceremony over, Aoyagi excused herself -and retired to her own apartment. As she did not return, Shigenari, -wondering at her long absence, went to seek her; and to his horror and -amazement found that she had committed suicide with a short sword that -lay beside the lifeless body. A written paper explained her rash act.</p> - -<p>“Husband,” it ran, “forgive my dying before you. I meant to obey you, -but I cannot do so. Kō-u of China, though a brave warrior overcome with -grief at parting with wife, hesitated shamefully before going to his -last battle. In our country Kiso Yoshinaka showed the same weakness. -Not for a moment do I compare you to those men, but still I think that -I, who losing you will have no further hope in this world, had better -die now before you fight your last fight and go to wait for you in -Hades. Do your best against<span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_196"></a>[196]</span> the foe! We shall meet again in the -Spirit World—till then farewell! Aoyagi.”</p> - - -<p class="tbreak">The morning of the next day broke clear and cloudless. It was the first -day of the fifth month in the twentieth year of Keichō (1615).</p> - -<p>A large force under the command of Ii Naotaka advanced from the enemy’s -camp and rushed to the attack. Shigenari met them at the head of seven -hundred cavalry, and a fierce struggle took place. With the strength of -desperation Shigenari’s company, though so inferior in numbers, beat -back the foe. But as one regiment was beaten, another and yet another -dashed forward to take its place, and it was impossible that the castle -party could win in the end.</p> - -<p>“We must cut our way into the main regiment,” said Shigenari during -a short breathing space to his faithful retainer Ryōkwan—once known -as the “Tea-priest”—“If we can only manage to kill Ii Naotaka, the -Commander in Chief, the enemy will be disheartened and we may have some -chance.”</p> - -<p>Then inspired by the example of their leader, the little band -hurled themselves on the foe; and unable<span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_197"></a>[197]</span> to stand against such -fury, the fourth and fifth companies fell back in disorder, and it -seemed that a general rout would be the result.</p> - -<p>Ii alone stood his ground. Brandishing his <i>saihai</i> or baton he roared -in stentorian tones:—</p> - -<p>“Cowards! Do you fly before such a handful? Back, back, and the day is -ours!”</p> - -<p>His words took instant effect. His flying troops rallied, maintained -their position and fought bravely. Seeing this, Shigenari smiled grimly -to himself.</p> - -<p>“Now is my time to break through the lines, kill Ii and then die!”</p> - -<p>Putting spurs to his horse he darted forward swift as a flash of -lightning, his brilliant helmet and shining armour gleaming in the -sun. Ryōkwan followed close with his heavy iron rod, and the rest -of the devoted band strove to keep up, cutting and hewing their way -through the ranks. So violent was their onset that again Ii’s men -wavered. At this critical juncture Seki Jūrozaemon, a samurai noted -for his huge strength, suddenly appeared and struck at Shigenari with -a great halberd; but Shigenari’s spear point pierced clean through his -breastplate of mail and he fell dead from his horse. Ii’s soldiers were -panic-stricken and none<span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_198"></a>[198]</span> ventured to oppose Shigenari who continued -his onward rush and attacked Ii before he had time to escape. Being -no match for his assailant, Ii must have fallen had it not been for -one Fujita Noto-no-Kami who came to his rescue. Furious at this check -Shigenari turned to throw him from the saddle with a single thrust, and -in that moment Ii managed to escape.</p> - -<p>Looking back, Shigenari could see but few of his men; nearly all had -fallen in the mêlée. Severely wounded, and faint with loss of blood, -Shigenari realised that he could do no more. Unnoticed he alighted from -his spent horse and retired to a small grove on some elevated ground. -His approach was observed by a low fellow belonging to Ii’s camp who -was hiding behind the trees. Such was the estimation in which Shigenari -was held that even in his weakness he inspired awe and dread. The -skulking coward did not dare to attack him openly, but as the wounded -hero lay gasping on the ground stole softly up behind him and aimed a -blow at his head. Shigenari heard the slight rustle of his approach and -turned, whereupon the wretch made off. Shigenari called him back.</p> - -<p>“Fellow,” he said, “whoever you are, come here and take my head.”</p> - -<p class="pagenum"><a id="Page_199"></a>[199]</p> - -<p>But the man fearing some trick hesitated to obey.</p> - -<p>“Coward,” cried the dying warrior, “you have nothing to fear from me. -Cut off my head, but I conjure you not to remove the helmet till you -present it to your master, Iyeyasu. I am impatient—cut off my head as I -bid you.”</p> - -<p>As he spoke Shigenari lifted the lower plates of his helmet and -stretched out his neck for the blow. As in a trance the craven crept up -and severed the head from the body. Then gaining courage he raised the -dripping trophy high in the air and shouted at the top of his voice:—</p> - -<p>“I, Andō Chōzaburō, single-handed, have taken the head of -Nagato-no-Kami Shigenari, the most renowned warrior in the Osaka Army!”</p> - -<p>The boast reached the ears of a man covered with blood who was still in -the thick of the fray. It was Ryōkwan.</p> - -<p>“My Lord, Nagato-no-Kami, was not the man to be killed by such a -weakling as Andō,” he cried, as loudly as his failing strength would -permit. “He had some reason for allowing his head to be cut off. -Remember that, my enemies.”</p> - -<p class="pagenum"><a id="Page_200"></a>[200]</p> - -<p>With that he stabbed himself in his abdomen and expired.</p> - -<p class="tbreak">After the battle the head of Shigenari, enclosed in its helmet, was -taken to Iyeyasu for inspection. It had been the desire of all that -day to get the head of the hero, and Ieyasu had the helmet removed -for verification. As this was done the sweet odour of incense floated -through the air.</p> - -<p>The old statesman surveyed the noble features with something of -reverent admiration.</p> - -<p>“Never was a more loyal or courageous samurai than Nagato-no-Kami!” he -said slowly. “Would that I had many like him!”</p> - -<p class="tbreak">The attempted escape from the castle proved a failure. On May 8th, the -besiegers once more attacked the castle on all sides, and there ensued -one of the bloodiest struggles in the history of Japan. It resulted in -the complete overthrow of Hideyori’s faction and the destruction of the -castle by fire. The unfortunate<span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_201"></a>[201]</span> nobleman, his mother and all the -maids of honour perished in the flames.</p> - -<div class="footnote_1"> -<a id="Footnote_6" href="#FNanchor_6" class="fnanchor">6</a> -A samurai of lower rank whose business it was to serve his lord with -tea, and who was often master of the tea ceremonies. He had his head -shaven like a priest—hence the name “tea-priest.” -</div> - - - - -<div class="chapter"> -<p class="pagenum"><a id="Page_205"></a>[205]</p> -<h2 class="nobreak">HONEST KYŪSUKÉ</h2> -<hr class="chap x-ebookmaker-drop"> -</div> - - -<p class="drop-cap">GONZAEMON, the head-man of the village of Tamamura in the province -of Kōdzuké, whose family had from generation to generation enjoyed a -large fortune, employed a number of servants. Among them was one named -Kyūsuké who had been added to the household on the recommendation of a -peasant of the same village as being exceedingly honest. Though he was -very young, unlike other servants, he worked very hard and performed -all his duties as well when no one observed him as under the eye of -his master. Gonzaemon, therefore, began to look upon him as a great -acquisition and took a keen interest in him.</p> - -<p>One day he summoned Kyūsuké to his room and said:—</p> - -<p>“Kyūsuké, I am pleased to see that you always work faithfully, but I -think I should be more pleased if you would leave off working at an -earlier hour in the evening and go to bed at the same time as your -fellow-servants. If you continue to be so much more<span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_206"></a>[206]</span> industrious -than they there will be complaints among them.”</p> - -<p>“My good master,” answered the young man, “though I do not like to -disobey you, I regret to say that I can never get to sleep before nine -o’clock at night.”</p> - -<p>“You surprise me,” said Gonzaemon, “but at least you can oblige me by -remaining in bed until the usual hour for getting up in the morning.”</p> - -<p>“My good master,” replied Kyūsuké again, “I am very sorry to displease -you so often, but mine is a hopeless case, for to be frank with you I -cannot for the life of me stay abed after seven in the morning.”</p> - -<p>Now, you must know, that according to our old way of counting time, -nine at night was midnight, and seven in the morning answered to 4 -o’clock. Kyūsuké, therefore, never slept more than four hours every -night, and his master on learning this was surprised beyond measure.</p> - -<p>“What a wonder you are!” he exclaimed. “It is seldom one finds -gentlemen in service such passionate lovers of work! How gratified -I am to find such a notable exception in you. I trust you will not -take my suggestion amiss; it was necessary in order that<span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_207"></a>[207]</span> your -fellow-servants should not suffer in consequence of your zeal for work.”</p> - -<p>“I humbly beg your forgiveness for venturing to disobey your kind -orders,” said the young man respectfully.</p> - -<p>“Don’t beg my forgiveness,” said his master, “for by so doing you put -me in an awkward position.”</p> - -<p>After considering for a few moments while the servant waited silently -for further orders, Gonzaemon resumed:—</p> - -<p>“Well, Kyūsuké, I have another suggestion to offer you. You know that -you are your own master while your fellow-servants are asleep. I do not -wish you to work for me in those hours, so if you do not wish to rest, -employ that time in making sandals for your own profit. I will see that -you are provided with plenty of straw.”</p> - -<p>“My good master, you are very kind, but I fear it is not right that a -servant should use any of his time in work for his own profit.”</p> - -<p>Thus Kyūsuké once more baffled the kind intentions of his master. -Gonzaemon was struck with his faithfulness.</p> - -<p>“If you persist in refusing all my proposals I shall<span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_208"></a>[208]</span> be at a loss -what to do with you,” he said. “So be pleased to do as I request you -only this once.”</p> - -<p>Kyūsuké could not refuse his master’s kindness so delicately offered, -and he consented to use his spare time for his own profit. Henceforth -the early morning and late evening hours were devoted to the task of -making <i>waraji</i> or straw sandals, which he sold to a kitchen-ware -dealer in the village, thereby making a small but regular income, every -<i>sen</i> of which he intrusted to his kind master for safe keeping. Soon -the young servant’s diligence became known, and the country people -encouraged his industry by always asking for the “Kyūsuké <i>waraji</i>” -in preference to any other. This naturally pleased the dealer who -continually pressed Kyūsuké for further supplies. Gonzaemon, likewise -pleased at the success of his plan, determined to lend out the money -in his charge so as to increase the amount by good interest. In this -he found no difficulty for people had the idea that some luck attached -itself to anything connected with the honest servant, and were only too -glad to be accommodated with loans out of his savings.</p> - -<p>Thus eight years passed away and Kyūsuké was still a servant in the -household of Gonzaemon. One day<span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_209"></a>[209]</span> the latter called the young man -into his apartment and addressed him as follows:—</p> - -<p>“My dear Kyūsuké, time indeed flies like an arrow, as the proverb says. -Eight years have elapsed since I was so fortunate as to take you into -my service. You have never squandered your wages as other servants do; -setting apart a certain amount for small personal expenses you have -regularly committed to my care all that you earned. I should certainly -have proved but a poor banker, had I not sought some profitable -investment for your deposits. All these years I have been lending out -your money at a moderate rate, and it is astonishing to find how much -your capital now amounts to. Behold! Your savings with interest and -compound interest now reach the sum of one hundred <i>ryō</i>! Now, what do -you propose to do with all this money?”</p> - -<p>“My good master,” said Kyūsuké, quite taken aback at the idea of such -wealth, “you must be joking!”</p> - -<p>“Not at all; it is as I say. Will you continue to lend it out, or would -you prefer to dispose of it in some other way? It is for you to decide.”</p> - -<p>“A hundred <i>ryō</i>!” gasped Kyūsuké. “Did you really say ‘one hundred -<i>ryō</i>’?”</p> - -<p class="pagenum"><a id="Page_210"></a>[210]</p> - -<p>“A hundred <i>ryō</i>!” replied his master smiling.</p> - -<p>“It is unbelievable!” said Kyūsuké.</p> - -<p>“Your own industry is responsible for it,” said Gonzaemon. “Now tell me -what you are going to do with it.”</p> - -<p>Kyūsuké pondered long and deeply. At length he spoke.</p> - -<p>“Kind master, if you would not think it taking an unpardonable liberty, -I should much like to take the money and pay a short visit to my native -place next spring.”</p> - -<p>“By all means” said Gonzaemon. “Do you know of a good investment in -your native place?”</p> - -<p>“No,” answered Kyūsuké, readily enough now. “But you will understand -better if I tell you a little of my family history. Excuse the liberty -I take in troubling you with my affairs. I am the second son of a -peasant, Kyūzaemon by name, living in the village of Shimo-Ogita-mura -near Nanao, in the province of Noto. My elder brother, after leading a -dissipated life and causing his parents much grief, suddenly left home -and has never been heard of since. My mother died soon after, and my -father married a widow with one daughter. Before long my step-mother -took it into her head to<span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_211"></a>[211]</span> adopt a son to marry her daughter and -succeed my father as head of the family. Me she hated, and consequently -treated me so unkindly, that I was soon convinced it would be for the -happiness of all parties that I should leave home and go right away. So -one day, leaving a letter of apology behind me, I secretly came away. -At first I had rather a hard time of it, but since I was so lucky as -to become your servant I have had nothing to complain of. I cannot -sufficiently thank you for all your kindness to me.” Here Kyūsuké -paused, and bowed low, while tears filled his eyes. Conquering his -emotion he resumed:—</p> - -<p>“One hundred <i>ryō</i>, the largest sum of money I have ever set eyes -on, I owe entirely to your goodness—how can I thank you? That I may -make a proper use of your gift—for so I consider it—I shall return to -my father and with this money buy him some rice-fields. In addition, -should my step-sister still remain single I shall try to find her a -suitable husband. Having done this and established my family so that it -will be in no danger of extinction, I shall make all haste to return -to you and beg to offer you my lifelong service as some small way of -requiting all you have done for me.”</p> - -<p class="pagenum"><a id="Page_212"></a>[212]</p> - -<p>Gonzaemon was greatly touched.</p> - -<p>“Kyūsuké,” he said, “you are a noble fellow! A dutiful son as well as -a faithful servant. I admire your laudable intention. ‘To your old -home return in splendour’ says an old proverb, so Kyūsuké, return in -splendour indeed! I will make it my business to provide the clothes you -shall wear, and I will also see that you have suitable presents to take -to all your relations.”</p> - -<p>Thus the conversation ended and Kyūsuké retired to pursue his usual -avocations.</p> - -<p class="tbreak">Early the following year, in spite of his servant’s remonstrances, -Gonzaemon, as good as his word, prepared all the necessary garments -for Kyūsuké to wear in order to make a good impression on his visit -home, and presents for each member of his family. Further, he pressed -upon Kyūsuké’s acceptance a short sword for protection on his journey, -ten <i>ryō</i> for travelling expenses, and five <i>ryō</i> as a parting gift. -Producing Kyūsuké’s own hundred <i>ryō</i> he said:—</p> - -<p>“Now, my dear Kyūsuké, you had better not carry this large sum in cash -for fear you might get robbed on the way; I advise you to send it by -bill of exchange.”</p> - -<p class="pagenum"><a id="Page_213"></a>[213]</p> - -<p>“Indeed, no, good master,” replied Kyūsuké. “That is quite unnecessary; -who would suspect that a fellow of my sort had any money about him and -attempt to rob me? It will be quite safe in the bosom of my dress.”</p> - -<p>“But you might lose it in some other way,” persisted Gonzaemon. “You -had better do as I say,—one cannot be too much on one’s guard while -travelling.”</p> - -<p>Kyūsuké laughed.</p> - -<p>“Do not be uneasy on my account,” he said. “I will be careful.”</p> - -<p>“As you please, Kyūsuké; but at least listen to me in one thing; while -on your journey always make it a rule to start late in the morning, -and to put up early in the evening. Above all never make a travelling -companion, and do not speak of your affairs.”</p> - -<p>“I will bear in mind what you say, and most certainly follow your -advice,” said Kyūsuké. “A thousand thanks for all your favours, kind -master. I can never forget all I owe to you.”</p> - -<p>With affectionate words on both sides Kyūsuké and his master parted -and the young man set out on his journey homewards. But once upon the -road the dutiful son, too eager to set his eyes once more on the<span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_214"></a>[214]</span> -village of his forefathers, was indiscreet enough to travel from the -earliest hour of the day till late at night. So it was, that when he -was in the neighbourhood of Oiwaké in the province of Shinano he one -night lost his way in the darkness, and after a long march of five or -six <i>ri</i> found himself in the middle of an extensive moor without a -trace of human habitation.</p> - -<p>“What shall I do?” he asked himself. “I fear I have been too rash. Had -I followed my master’s advice I should not be in this plight. It is -only what I deserve.”</p> - -<p>Plodding on Kyūsuké was overjoyed after a time to observe a glimmer -of light in the distance. Taking heart at this sign of a dwelling of -some kind, he bent his weary steps toward it, and by and by came to a -tumble-down cottage which appeared to be the only habitation for miles -around. Kyūsuké went up to the door and called for admittance.</p> - -<p>“Be good enough to show favour to a stranger! I am very sorry to -disturb you at this late hour, but have lost my way and cannot find the -road. Please let me in and tell me how to get to the nearest inn.”</p> - -<p>The door opened and a woman appeared. She was about thirty and poorly -dressed and her coiffure was of<span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_215"></a>[215]</span> a mean style, but there was -something in her person that seemed to contradict the idea that her -birth was as low as her surroundings.</p> - -<p>“Come in,” she said. “But you must not stay. I am indeed sorry for you, -for you stand in the middle of one of Shinano’s many moors. Whichever -way you turn you must walk about five <i>ri</i> before you come to another -house.”</p> - -<p>Kyūsuké being very tired requested the woman to give him a night’s -lodging, but she shook her head.</p> - -<p>“Why did you come here?”</p> - -<p>“I have told you; I lost my way and I saw a light. You cannot be so -inhuman as to refuse me shelter for a few hours,—I ask no more.”</p> - -<p>“You will not want to stay when I tell you that this is the house of a -robber—a highwayman.”</p> - -<p>“A robber!” Kyūsuké thinking of his treasure was alarmed. “Excuse me, I -must go on at once.”</p> - -<p>“Will you not rest a few moments?”</p> - -<p>“By no means. How can I sit down in what I have learned is the -residence of a highway-gentleman? Allow me to say Good-night; I am much -obliged to you.”</p> - -<p>Kyūsuké was for going at once but the woman stopped him.</p> - -<p class="pagenum"><a id="Page_216"></a>[216]</p> - -<p>“Good traveller, I must tell you that you are encompassed by danger in -every direction. After all, I think the safest course for you to pursue -is to remain here for the night and I will hide you from my husband. He -will not be back for some time yet.”</p> - -<p>The manner and speech of the woman inspired confidence, so Kyūsuké -deemed it prudent to abide by her advice. Taking off the large bamboo -hat that he wore as a protection from both sun and rain, he sat down on -the boarded floor of the kitchen glad to rest his weary limbs at last. -The woman hurriedly prepared a simple supper for him, which he ate with -relish, though in haste, as he feared the return of the master. The -woman then led him to a wood-shed at the back of the cottage and said:—</p> - -<p>“You would be in great danger should my husband discover you. So keep -yourself hidden in this shed and do not mind a little discomfort. As -soon as it is day and my husband goes out, I will let you out and you -can continue your journey in safety.”</p> - -<p>Kyūsuké thanked her warmly, and had not long ensconced himself among -the piles of firewood, making himself as comfortable as he could under -the circumstances,<span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_217"></a>[217]</span> when he heard a sound that caused his heart to -leap into his mouth.</p> - -<p>“O-Nami, I have returned.”</p> - -<p>“Oh, is it you at last?” welcomed the wife.</p> - -<p>“How cold it is! Confound those killing winds that blow, down from Mt. -Asama! O-Nami!”</p> - -<p>“Yes; what is it?”</p> - -<p>“Whose hat is that?”</p> - -<div class="figcenter"> -<p class="center mt2"><span id="img217"> - <img src="images/ill_217.jpg" class="illowp90w" alt="Husband points at hat on floor"> -</span></p> -<p class="center caption">“Whose hat is that?”</p> -</div> - -<p class="mt2">“Hat? What hat?”</p> - -<p>“Come, no equivocations! There is a strange hat on the floor, and you -know whose it is. Out with it! I don’t like this underhand way you have -acquired of hiding things from me. You are concealing someone in the -house!”</p> - -<p>“Indeed, no! Why should I want to conceal anyone.”</p> - -<p>“Then how did this bamboo hat get here? Do you want me to believe that -the wind blew it in, as ours is the only building to check its course -for miles around? Come, woman, speak up!”</p> - -<p>There was the sound of quick movement, and a cry—</p> - -<p>“Mercy, mercy....”</p> - -<p>“Come, speak up or you are a dead woman!”</p> - -<p class="pagenum"><a id="Page_218"></a>[218]</p> - -<p>Kyūsuké, in his hiding in the wood-shed, could imagine the scene.</p> - -<p>“This is terrible!” he thought. “How could I be such a fool as to -forget my hat! It may cost the woman her life!”</p> - -<p>The noise in the cottage increased, mingled with the shrieks of the -poor woman and the threats of her enraged husband. Kyūsuké stole out of -his hiding place and peeped cautiously through a crack in the door. To -his horror he found the man was dragging his wife round the room by her -long hair with one hand, while he repeatedly struck her with the other. -At this sight Kyūsuké forgetting his own fears burst in.</p> - -<p>“Sir, sir, all the money I have about me I will give you! The woman is -not to blame,—spare her!”</p> - -<p>“Who spoke?”</p> - -<p>The infuriated man checked his wrath for a moment to stare in -astonishment at the unexpected apparition.</p> - -<p>Taking advantage of the lull, Kyūsuké quickly produced his hundred -<i>ryō</i> along with what remained of the money his master had given him -for the journey and the little gift.</p> - -<p>“Here, good sir, take all—I have no more—and do<span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_219"></a>[219]</span> not punish your -wife for a kind action. I only am to blame.”</p> - -<p>The ruffian took no further notice of his wife whom he left sobbing -on the floor, but turned to take up with greedy hands the rich store -offered by the traveller. Not content with money, however, he coolly -demanded all the clothes he was wearing and possessed himself of the -dagger into the bargain. Poor Kyūsuké! all the earnings of eight -hard-working years had gone to fill the pockets of a villainous -gentleman of the road.</p> - -<p>“In pity, give me back my clothes, I cannot go either back or forward -in this naked state,” pleaded Kyūsuké. “And my dagger—I need it to -defend myself from gentlemen such as you—though I have nothing of which -to be robbed now!” he added ruefully.</p> - -<p>“Take these,” said the robber, throwing him a wadded garment and a -girdle, both much the worse for wear.</p> - -<p>“Thank you very much, but now my dagger....”</p> - -<p>“That I shall find useful myself.”</p> - -<p>“But without it I shall be at the mercy of any dog on the way....”</p> - -<p>“What a troublesome fellow you are! But no one<span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_220"></a>[220]</span> shall say I left -you without the means of defence. Here, take this, and begone!”</p> - -<p>With these words the robber produced from a cupboard an old sword -doubtless acquired from some former luckless wayfarer and handed it to -Kyūsuké, adding:—</p> - -<p>“After leaving this house go straight on till you come to a broad road, -follow this always turning to the north and in due time you will reach -Oiwaké. Now go!”</p> - -<p>“Again my best thanks,” said Kyūsuké bowing low; then turning to the -poor woman he said softly:—</p> - -<p>“I am very sorry to have brought all this trouble upon you, forgive me.”</p> - -<p>“No, no, it was I who was to blame but, indeed, I did it for the best.”</p> - -<p>“A truce to this nonsense!” cried the robber impatiently. “Here is a -torch to light your way; be off before I change my mind about letting -you go.”</p> - -<p>“Then, master and mistress, farewell to you,” and with these words -Kyūsuké accepted the torch held out to him and hastened away. But the -fates seemed to be still against him, for no sooner had he set forth -than the rain which had begun to come down in torrents<span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_221"></a>[221]</span> put out -his light so that he was in complete darkness. But this misfortune in -reality saved his life, for the robber had given Kyūsuké a light for -no other purpose than that it would serve his own evil intent, which -was to shoot the traveller as soon as his back was turned. True, he -might have despatched him before he left the cottage, but in that -case his wife would have interfered and been troublesome; besides he -hardly liked to turn upon Kyūsuké and murder him just when he had so -ungrudgingly given up all he had. Wicked man though he was he could not -bring himself to such a dastardly action as that. However, as soon as -Kyūsuké closed the door the robber, weapon in hand, softly opened it -again and crept out, intending to take aim by the light that Kyūsuké -carried. But, alas for him, and fortunately for his intended victim, -the heavy rain had extinguished the light; so muttering “lucky dog!” he -re-entered his home leaving Kyūsuké to continue his way unmolested.</p> - -<p>On arriving at Oiwaké Kyūsuké drew a long breath and congratulated -himself on his narrow escape, though how narrow he did not realise. -There he gave up his cherished idea of visiting his old home, and -determined to retrace his steps to his master’s house, begging his way -as he had now no money to pay for even the<span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_222"></a>[222]</span> poorest fare. Gonzaemon -received him very kindly, though, having heard the details of Kyūsuké’s -adventure, he could not resist saying:—</p> - -<p>“Did I not warn you? If you had drawn a draft for the money as I -advised you this would never have happened. But it is too late to -talk of that now. You were lucky to escape with the loss of your -property,—you might have lost your life as well. Do not give way to -despair. Rest for a few days and then set to work again.”</p> - -<p>While speaking to Kyūsuké the master happened to take up the old sword -he had got from the robber. The thread round the hilt was frayed and -coming off. He tried to draw the blade but it was so rusty with disuse -that it stuck fast in the sheath. Bending over it his eye was caught by -the decorative stud which he was convinced was not of brass. Thinking -the weapon might be of more value than appeared at first sight, he sent -for a dealer in old wares, Kichibei by name, and requested his opinion -as to its merits, pretending that it belonged to one of his friends who -wished to dispose of it to the best advantage.</p> - -<p>The dealer, with the skill acquired by long practice,<span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_223"></a>[223]</span> soon -withdrew the blade from its sheath, and after closely examining it for -some time, said:—</p> - -<p>“The sword is a valuable one. The blade is so rusty that I cannot say -anything for certain about it, but the ornamentation is undoubtedly -of solid gold. The pommel and stud are of Gotō’s engraving, and the -guard itself being by Nobuié is worth at least thirty-five <i>ryō</i>. I am -willing to give one hundred and thirty <i>ryō</i> for the decorative parts -alone.”</p> - -<p>These words quite surpassed the expectations of Gonzaemon. He sent the -dealer away on the pretext that he would consult his friend, and then -told Kyūsuké what he had said.</p> - -<p>At this undreamt-of good luck Kyūsuké was struck dumb as well he might -be. Gonzaemon, however, encouraged by Kichibei’s opinion thought that -a Yedo expert might value the sword even more highly and be more able, -as well as willing, to purchase it at a higher rate. A blade in so -elaborate and rich a mounting could hardly fail to prove a good one; -and knowing something of the estimation in which much workmanship was -held, he decided to go up to Yedo himself and do the best he could for -his faithful but simple servant.</p> - -<p>In Yedo he submitted the weapon to the examination<span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_224"></a>[224]</span> of Honami, the -ablest connoisseur in matters of this sort, who pronounced the blade -to be the undoubted work of Bizen Nagamitsu, one of the ten clever -disciples of Masamuné, although the name of the maker was not on it. -Further, in proof of his belief he offered to buy it for eight hundred -<i>ryō</i>, an offer Gonzaemon was more than glad to accept.</p> - -<p>The business that took him to the city so satisfactorily concluded, he -hastened home with all speed and gave the astonished Kyūsuké an account -of the transaction. Laying the money before him he concluded with these -words:—</p> - -<p>“My dear Kyūsuké, see how advantageous it is to be honest always! Your -misfortune has proved a blessing in disguise. Heaven approving of your -upright conduct has been pleased to grant you this great favour. How -grateful we should be! Now go home again with all despatch, but this -time take my advice and do not carry such a large sum in cash.”</p> - -<p>As soon as Kyūsuké recovered from his surprise he bowed respectfully to -his master, and spoke as follows:—</p> - -<p>“My good master, you overwhelm me with obligation! I have no words in -which to express my feelings. But far be it from me to appropriate all -this large<span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_225"></a>[225]</span> sum. I hesitate to displease you, but only one hundred -<i>ryō</i> do I consider is mine,—for I left the robber’s house poorer by -just that amount, and that sum I shall send home by money order as you -advise. As for the rest, after you deduct the expenses of your journey -to Yedo, I shall carry it all to the robber. The sword was his and I -can not make myself rich at the expense of a poor highwayman,—that -would never do!”</p> - -<p>Gonzaemon was struck with admiration at this disinterested conduct on -the part of his servant.</p> - -<p>“My good fellow,” he said warmly, “your honesty puts me to shame! But -surely you will not unnecessarily risk your life for such a purpose. As -for my journey to Yedo, that is purely my affair and you will dismiss -it from your mind. But consider before you act so rashly as to put -yourself again into the power of a desperate man.”</p> - -<p>But Kyūsuké was obstinate as well as honest.</p> - -<p>“Far be it from me to go in opposition to your wishes,” he said, -respectfully, “but in this thing only I beg you to let me have my own -way. I am loath to cause you any uneasiness, but villain though he is -he will surely not harm a man who comes to do him a good turn. There -can be no danger.”</p> - -<p class="pagenum"><a id="Page_226"></a>[226]</p> - -<p>Gonzaemon, knowing from experience that further persuasions would be -of no avail, reluctantly permitted his servant to do as he proposed. -After sending one hundred <i>ryō</i> to his father by money order, he tied -up the seven hundred <i>ryō</i> remaining in a little package, which he put -in his bosom and once more set off on his travels. Contrary to his -former experience, he had this time no little difficulty in finding -the cottage of the highwayman; at last, however, he came to the door -which in response to his call was again opened by the kind-hearted -mistress. Kyūsuké bowed, and in polite terms thanked her for the -favours he received at her hands on a former occasion. The woman was -much surprised, but controlling her emotion she said:—</p> - -<p>“My good traveller, I do not know how to apologise for what I did to -you the other day. Nevertheless you have come again! I shall be still -more grieved if you are robbed a second time. Fortunately for you,—though <i>I</i> am sorry—my husband is sick in bed. Please make all haste to -retrace your steps.”</p> - -<p>Kyūsuké’s kind heart was moved with compassion for the sick man and his -wife.</p> - -<p>“Indeed I sympathise with you both. Allow me to pay my respects to him -and inquire after his health.”</p> - -<p class="pagenum"><a id="Page_227"></a>[227]</p> - -<p>“No, no, sir! He is suffering now but his avarice may be excited at the -sight of you. Should he again demand all you have with you, you may -again be inconvenienced.”</p> - -<p>“Be quite easy on that score; I am here to bring him some money.”</p> - -<p>“What do you mean?”</p> - -<p>“You are naturally surprised. Let me in and you will know. I must see -your husband.”</p> - -<p>Reluctantly the woman let him come into the house. Making his way to an -inner room where the sick man was lying groaning, Kyūsuké, saluting him -in the usual manner, inquired:—</p> - -<p>“My friend, how are you?”</p> - -<p>“This is the traveller you treated so unkindly a short time ago,” -explained the woman, seeing that her husband did not recognize the -visitor.</p> - -<p>“Which one?” asked the robber, sourly.</p> - -<p>“Sir, it is I. I do not know how to requite you for the kindness you -showed me the other day. But now I must tell you what brings me here -again.”</p> - -<p>Thereupon Kyūsuké proceeded to inform the robber of what had happened -about the sword, and laying the packet of money by the bed concluded as -follows:—</p> - -<p class="pagenum"><a id="Page_228"></a>[228]</p> - -<p>“From the price paid for the sword I have deducted one hundred <i>ryō</i> -as my due, sending it to my home by money order. All the rest I have -brought with me and it is in that package except a small sum I have -taken the liberty to keep for my travelling expenses. I have not -quite enough to take me to my home in Noto province, and then back to -my master’s house in Tamamura, Kōdzuké province, so I shall be much -obliged if you will kindly allow me a little more. As for the remainder -you are welcome to appropriate it all. Ah, how glad I am to be relieved -of the charge of this money which has been a source of constant anxiety -ever since I set out on this journey.”</p> - -<p>The sick man appeared to be much impressed by the simple recital of -Kyūsuké’s tale. After a pause he said:—</p> - -<p>“You say your home is in Noto; from what part of the province do you -come?”</p> - -<p>“I was born in Ogita-mura near Nanao. My name is Kyūsuké and I am the -son of a peasant called Kyūzaemon.”</p> - -<p>“Was your elder brother called Kyūtarō?”</p> - -<p>“How do you know that?”</p> - -<p>“You may well wonder. Kyūsuké, I have hardly the face to tell you.... I -am Kyūtarō, fallen as you<span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_229"></a>[229]</span> see to the depths of degradation and -misery.”</p> - -<p>“My elder brother, Kyūtarō!”</p> - -<p>“With shame I say it, yes.”</p> - -<p>The two brothers embraced with tears. O-Nami was surprised beyond -measure at the pathetic sight.</p> - -<p>“Are you indeed my husband’s brother? Forgive me, I did not guess it,” -and she burst into tears.</p> - -<p>Kyūsuké hastened to console her.</p> - -<p>“I beg you will not cry; forgive my rudeness in not knowing who you -were, and forgive also the great trouble I have occasioned you.”</p> - -<p>Kyūtarō, whose conscience was at last smitten at the thought of all his -misdeeds, now took a hunting knife lying within reach, and planted it -in the side of his abdomen. His wife and brother, too late to stop the -rash act, caught his hands.</p> - -<p>“Stop, what madness is this!” cried Kyūsuké.</p> - -<p>“My husband, oh what have you done!” exclaimed the wife.</p> - -<p>Kyūtarō was almost beyond speaking. In a faint voice he said painfully:—</p> - -<p>“Brother, wife, how can I continue to live? Kyūsuké, when I recall -how vile I have been I am stricken with remorse and shame. When you -were here last I<span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_230"></a>[230]</span> would have killed you, little dreaming you were -my brother; O-Nami’s remonstrances were of no avail, only providence -saved you by miraculously putting out the torch you carried. My evil -designs have all turned to your good fortune; the sword I gave you to -encourage you the sooner to leave this house proves a precious gift -and brings you a large sum of money. Instead of profiting by it you -take the trouble to come and give it to me. Kyūsuké, how scrupulous you -are! Your nature is honest and spotless as the snow ... mine black as -charcoal! I have filled up the measure of my wickedness; the disease -from which I am now suffering is the punishment of Heaven. What you -have just told me will serve like the blessing of a holy priest to -enlighten my path to the other world. I am determined to die and join -my dead mother,—to offer her my humble apologies for my bad conduct. -There is only one thing that disturbs me at this last moment,—it is -the thought of O-Nami. It was her misfortune that she married such a -wretched husband as I have been, but her heart is pure and tender. Look -after her when I am gone—be kind to her, Kyūsuké, I entreat you.”</p> - -<p>Thus Kyūtarō, unable to bear the stings of an awakened conscience, -succeeded in disengaging himself<span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_231"></a>[231]</span> from the arms of his wife and -brother and died a manly death.</p> - -<p>Kyūsuké and O-Nami mingled their tears over the lifeless body, but the -departed spirit was not to be recalled by their lamentations. So they -strove to conquer their grief and buried the dead robber in the best -manner possible under the circumstances.</p> - -<p>Kyūsuké then started for home, taking the money he had brought so far -and the hair of the deceased. O-Nami accompanied him. Before leaving -the cottage they set fire to it that no one might ever use it for evil -purposes again.</p> - -<p>On reaching home Kyūsuké told his old father, his step-mother and her -daughter, all that had befallen him since he left them so many years -before. The hundred <i>ryō</i> sent in advance had already come to hand, and -he now added to it all the money he had on his person. He also produced -the hair of the dead man. Old Kyūzaemon lamented over the sad fate of -his undutiful son, but at the same time rejoiced in the possession of -so admirable a younger son as Kyūsuké. The step-mother, now repenting -of her selfishness of former days, sought his forgiveness. One and all -took pity on O-Nami in her great misery. It is wonderful how one<span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_232"></a>[232]</span> -man’s goodness works upon the hearts of those about him. It was the -desire of his relations that Kyūsuké should succeed to his father and -carry on the family name; but he firmly declined, and arranged that -his step-sister should get a husband, and that the new couple should -be the heirs of the old man after his demise. As for O-Nami, she was -determined to become a nun and devote her remaining days to religious -services for the soul of her dead husband, her sole concern being -prayer for the blotting out of his sins. It was decided to build a -hermitage for her in order that she might pass her life undisturbed. -This is the origin of the Nanao nunnery.</p> - -<p>Having settled his family affairs to the satisfaction of all concerned, -Kyūsuké was happy to accept out of the cash he had brought home -a small sum sufficient to carry him back to his master’s home in -Kōdzuké province. After recounting his adventures and all he had done, -Kyūsuké begged Gonzaemon to re-engage him on the same terms as before. -Gonzaemon was both surprised and pleased. The praiseworthy actions of -Kyūsuké so moved the good-natured village head-man that he proposed to -set the young man up as one of his branch families. Kyūsuké’s modesty -was by no<span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_233"></a>[233]</span> means eager to accept such an honour, but seeing it was -really the wish of his patron he at length yielded. I need not tell you -how industriously he attended to all his duties that he might prove no -discredit to his master’s judgment. His family thrives in Tama-mura -to this day. As for the sword which he got from his robber brother it -was purchased by Lord Matsudaira, Daimio of Awa province. He named -it “Suté-maru” (a foundling blade) in reference to its history, and -treasured it highly. It is still a valued heirloom in the family.</p> - - - - -<div class="figcenter"> -<p class="center mt2"><span id="img235"> - <img src="images/ill_235.png" class="illowp60" alt="Publication details in Japanese."> -</span></p> -</div> - -<div class="pubdata" lang="ja"> -<p class="noindent center">大正九年十二月十五日刷印<br> -大正九年十二月二十日發行</p> - -<p class="noindent boxed center">定價金四圓</p> - -<p class="noindent"><span class="small">市外上大崎町三百八十番地</span><br> -著者 宮森麻太郎</p> - -<p class="noindent"><span class="small">東京市橋區銀度四丁目一番地</span><br> -發行者 <span class="smaller">エチ，ダブリユー，ジヨーンス</span></p> - -<p class="noindent"><span class="small">東京市橋區銀度四丁目一番地</span><br> -發行所 教文管</p> - -<p class="noindent"><span class="small">東京市橋區南金六町十二番地</span><br> -刷印者 望月精矣</p> - -<p class="noindent"><span class="small">東京市橋區南金六町十二番地</span><br> -刷印所 英文通信社刷印所</p> - -</div> - -<div class="transnote chapter"> -<h2 id="AddNotes" class="nobreak">Transcriber’s Notes</h2> - -<p>Text notes:</p> - -<ol> - <li>For the HTML version, page numbers of the original printed text - are displayed within brackets to the side of the text.</li> - <li>In order to facilitate word wrapping, an ellipsis in the middle - of a sentence is replaced by a group of three periods. This group - has a leading and, unless a comma is present, trailing blank - space added. Ellipses at the end of a sentence do not have a - leading blank space, but closing punctuation has been added if - needed.</li> - <li>Footnotes have been numbered and moved to the end of each - story.</li> - <li>Half-title pages have been removed. The page numbers given in the - table of contents have been adjusted.</li> - <li>Illustrations have been placed in a manner to avoid splitting a - paragraph. The page numbers given in the List of Illustrations - have been adjusted as needed.</li> - <li>Changed paragraphs ending in “,” to “:—” to match style of the - rest of the book: - <ul> - <li>pg 129: with due reverence,</li> - <li>pg 139: clear and distinct,</li> - <li>pg 151: laughed good-humouredly and,</li> - </ul></li> - <li>Except as mentioned above and in the Change List that follows, - every effort has been made to replicate this text as faithfully as - possible, including non-standard punctuation, inconsistently - hyphenated words, etc.</li> -</ol> - - -<p>Change List (page numbers from original printed book):</p> - -<ul> - <li><a href="#CONTENTS">Table of Contents</a><br> - The Royalty of A Boy Samurai<br> - <i>changed to</i><br> - The Loyalty of a Boy Samurai</li> - - <li><a href="#CONTENTS">Table of Contents</a><br> - The Wrestling of A Daimio<br> - <i>changed to</i><br> - The Wrestling of a Daimio</li> - - <li>Page <a href="#Page_5">5</a><br> - Villian<br> - <i>changed to</i><br> - Villain</li> - - <li>Page <a href="#Page_7">7</a><br> - Assasination<br> - <i>changed to</i><br> - Assassination</li> - - <li>Page <a href="#Page_37">37</a><br> - Added “I.” section header to match other sections.</li> - - <li>Page <a href="#Page_42">42</a><br> - had quite forgotton to attend<br> - <i>changed to</i><br> - had quite forgotten to attend</li> - - <li>Page <a href="#Page_45">45</a><br> - remonstrace<br> - <i>changed to</i><br> - remonstrance</li> - - <li>Page <a href="#Page_57">57</a><br> - Katsuno, till pale and emaciated<br> - <i>changed to</i><br> - Katsuno, still pale and emaciated</li> - - <li>Page <a href="#Page_73">73</a><br> - adressed to Ōsuga Katsutaka<br> - <i>changed to</i><br> - addressed to Ōsuga Katsutaka</li> - - <li>Page <a href="#Page_85">85</a><br> - twelth<br> - <i>changed to</i><br> - twelfth</li> - - <li>Page <a href="#Page_90">90</a><br> - at the inconseqence<br> - <i>changed to</i><br> - at the inconsequence</li> - - <li>Page <a href="#Page_94">94</a><br> - rankling in yonr heart<br> - <i>changed to</i><br> - rankling in your heart</li> - - <li>Page <a href="#Page_95">95</a><br> - seal your reconcilation<br> - <i>changed to</i><br> - seal your reconciliation</li> - - <li>Page <a href="#Page_108">108</a><br> - in the twelth year<br> - <i>changed to</i><br> - in the twelfth year</li> - - <li>Page <a href="#Page_108">108</a><br> - affords me much gratificaiton<br> - <i>changed to</i><br> - affords me much gratification</li> - - <li>Page <a href="#Page_139">139</a><br> - behined<br> - <i>changed to</i><br> - behind</li> - - <li>Page <a href="#Page_155">155</a><br> - Genzaemon<br> - <i>changed to</i><br> - Gonzaemon</li> - - <li>Page <a href="#Page_156">156</a><br> - May I not accomodate you<br> - <i>changed to</i><br> - May I not accommodate you</li> - - <li>Page <a href="#Page_159">159</a><br> - tussel<br> - <i>changed to</i><br> - tussle</li> - - <li>Page <a href="#Page_162">162</a><br> - wordly<br> - <i>changed to</i><br> - worldly</li> - - <li>Page <a href="#Page_162">162</a><br> - stipened<br> - <i>changed to</i><br> - stipend</li> - - <li>Page <a href="#Page_173">173</a><br> - Ryōkan<br> - <i>changed to</i><br> - Ryōkwan</li> - - <li>Page <a href="#Page_178">178</a><br> - Kyokwan’s<br> - <i>changed to</i><br> - Ryōkwan’s</li> - - <li>Page <a href="#Page_181">181</a><br> - remontrance<br> - <i>changed to</i><br> - remonstrance</li> - - <li>Page <a href="#Page_188">188</a><br> - “Keicho 19, 12th month, 27th day.”<br> - <i>changed to</i><br> - “Keichō 19, 12th month, 27th day.”</li> - - <li>Page <a href="#Page_189">189</a><br> - PAECE<br> - <i>changed to</i><br> - PEACE</li> - - <li>Page <a href="#Page_189">189</a><br> - receiving it back pu<br> - <i>changed to</i><br> - receiving it back put</li> - - <li>Page <a href="#Page_196">196</a><br> - a short breating space<br> - <i>changed to</i><br> - a short breathing space</li> - - <li>Page <a href="#Page_197">197</a><br> - halbert<br> - <i>changed to</i><br> - halberd</li> - - <li>Page <a href="#Page_199">199</a><br> - “Coward,” cried the dying warrior,” “you<br> - <i>changed to</i><br> - “Coward,” cried the dying warrior, “you</li> - - <li>Page <a href="#Page_199">199</a><br> - weaking<br> - <i>changed to</i><br> - weakling</li> - - <li>Page <a href="#Page_200">200</a><br> - Iyeyrsu<br> - <i>changed to</i><br> - Ieyasu</li> - - <li>Page <a href="#Page_205">205</a><br> - a keen interst in him.<br> - <i>changed to</i><br> - a keen interest in him.</li> - - <li>Page <a href="#Page_217">217</a><br> - Added missing illustration caption.</li> - - <li>Page <a href="#Page_225">225</a><br> - but villian though he is<br> - <i>changed to</i><br> - but villain though he is</li> - - <li>Page <a href="#Page_227">227</a><br> - robbor<br> - <i>changed to</i><br> - robber</li> - - <li>Page <a href="#Page_229">229</a><br> - cried Kūysuké<br> - <i>changed to</i><br> - cried Kyūsuké</li> - - <li>Page <a href="#Page_230">230</a><br> - profitting<br> - <i>changed to</i><br> - profiting</li> - - <li>Page <a href="#Page_231">231</a><br> - ifeless body<br> - <i>changed to</i><br> - lifeless body</li> -</ul> -</div> - -<div>*** END OF THE PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK 67650 ***</div> -</body> -</html> diff --git a/old/67650-h/images/cover.jpg b/old/67650-h/images/cover.jpg Binary files differdeleted file mode 100644 index ee36b80..0000000 --- a/old/67650-h/images/cover.jpg +++ /dev/null diff --git a/old/67650-h/images/ill_000.jpg b/old/67650-h/images/ill_000.jpg Binary files differdeleted file mode 100644 index 5630389..0000000 --- a/old/67650-h/images/ill_000.jpg +++ /dev/null diff --git a/old/67650-h/images/ill_018.jpg b/old/67650-h/images/ill_018.jpg Binary files differdeleted file mode 100644 index c7ce20b..0000000 --- a/old/67650-h/images/ill_018.jpg +++ /dev/null diff --git a/old/67650-h/images/ill_030.jpg b/old/67650-h/images/ill_030.jpg Binary files differdeleted file mode 100644 index b462c85..0000000 --- a/old/67650-h/images/ill_030.jpg +++ /dev/null diff --git a/old/67650-h/images/ill_052.jpg b/old/67650-h/images/ill_052.jpg Binary files differdeleted file mode 100644 index 1837701..0000000 --- a/old/67650-h/images/ill_052.jpg +++ /dev/null diff --git a/old/67650-h/images/ill_108.jpg b/old/67650-h/images/ill_108.jpg Binary files differdeleted file mode 100644 index 73c6e49..0000000 --- a/old/67650-h/images/ill_108.jpg +++ /dev/null diff --git a/old/67650-h/images/ill_138.jpg b/old/67650-h/images/ill_138.jpg Binary files differdeleted file mode 100644 index 1c2b6b3..0000000 --- a/old/67650-h/images/ill_138.jpg +++ /dev/null diff --git a/old/67650-h/images/ill_153.jpg b/old/67650-h/images/ill_153.jpg Binary files differdeleted file mode 100644 index 8cf2376..0000000 --- a/old/67650-h/images/ill_153.jpg +++ /dev/null diff --git a/old/67650-h/images/ill_217.jpg b/old/67650-h/images/ill_217.jpg Binary files differdeleted file mode 100644 index 65c9b7f..0000000 --- a/old/67650-h/images/ill_217.jpg +++ /dev/null diff --git a/old/67650-h/images/ill_235.png b/old/67650-h/images/ill_235.png Binary files differdeleted file mode 100644 index 3129959..0000000 --- a/old/67650-h/images/ill_235.png +++ /dev/null |
