Page:Anthology of Japanese Literature.pdf/308

304  To the bird-hunt, bird-hunt!
 * All at once from the southern paths of the mountain of death,
 * Many birds come flocking.
 * Swifter than a flash
 * The bird-catcher darts and
 * Snares many with his pole.


 * (While the Chorus is singing, Kiyoyori darts about the stage waving his pole. He makes his way to the back of the stage, where he spreads open his fan and pretends to put the birds on it.)

I will roast them for you. Here, they are ready. Please try one.


 * (He goes to Emma and offers him the fan.)

Well, well! I will have a taste.
 * Munch-munch! Crunch-crunch!
 * Oh, this is uncommonly delicious.

(to the Demons): You would like to try them, too?


 * (He goes to each Demon in turn.)

Indeed, we shall!
 * Munch-munch! Crunch-crunch!
 * What marvelous flavor!

I have never tasted anything so wonderful. Since you have given us such a treat, I am going to send you back to the terrestrial plane. There you may catch birds for another three years.

I am greatly obliged to you, I am sure.


 * (During the following song of the Chorus, Kiyoyori dances joyfully with open fan.)

For another three years, you shall snare birds!
 * Pheasant, goose, peacock, stork, and many others.

Thus commanded, Kiyoyori has turned his steps once more to the world beneath. But Emma, loath to see him depart, bestows on Kiyoyori his jeweled crown. Our bird-catcher marches lightly to the world below, there to begin his second span of life.


 * (Kiyoyori dances with crown, then leaves by Bridge, followed by Emma and the Demons.)