Page:Tales from old Japanese dramas (1915).djvu/127

Rh The faithful Shiōden's suggestion seems at first to be reasonable. But the mere mention of the idea of killing Lord Nobunaga and usurping the Empire, horrifies and disgusts me! My dear husband, I implore you, do not bring disgrace upon our aged mother and beloved children! Do not entertain such a horrible design. Take some other safe and wise course, such as will secure the good reputation of our house. Never, never come to any such evil resolution!"

Mitsuhidé remained silent. Soon afterwards, however, he recited the following versicle in loud tones, with an expression of firm determination on his face.

It is unnecessary to say that by this time Mitsuhidé had resolved to hoist the banner of treason. His wife understood the full significance of his poem, and when she heard it she burst into bitter tears and was stupefied with grief. Shiōden, on the other hand, danced for joy and cried out: "Long live the Akéchi family!"