Page:Nihongi by Aston volume 2.djvu/402

Rh Winter, 10th month, 11th day. The Empress visited the Castle of Takayasu.

22nd day. Komaro, Shimotsukenu no Ason, of Jiki-kwō-shi rank, represented to the Empress his desire to set free 600 slaves. His petition was granted.

11th month, 22nd day. Ihanari, Takata no Obito, of Tsui-kwō-ni rank, was complimented in the market-place on his proficiency in the use of the three weapons, and presents were given him.

12th month, 8th day. The game of suguroku was prohibited.

4th year, Spring, 1st month, 1st day. Mononobe no Maro no Ason set up great shields. Nakatomi no Ohoshima no Ason, Minister of the Department of the Shintō religion, recited (a prayer invoking) blessings from the Gods of Heaven. When this was over, Shikofuchi, Imbe no Sukune, delivered to the Empress-consort the divine seal, sword and mirror. The Empress-consort accordingly assumed the Imperial Dignity. The Ministers and public functionaries ranged in order, made obeisance in rotation, and clapped their hands.