Page:Tales from old Japanese dramas (1915).djvu/129

Rh Rammaru to serve her with saké. Then Nobunaga offered Rammaru a cup, saying that his favourite might ask him for any dish he chose.

"Many thanks, my lord," said Rammaru, with a serious look. "I do not wish for any delicate dish, but may I be so bold as to ask for an army of four or five thousand men?"

"An army?" asked Nobunaga surprised. "For what purpose do you require an army, Rammaru?"

"I intend to march on Mitsuhidé's castle at Kaméyama in Tamba, and overthrow him in a single battle. He is a curse to your lordship, and I wish to rid you of him!"

"That is indeed well said," said Nobunaga smiling. "But that is a needless fear. It would be impossible for such a man as Mitsuhidé to 'strike his lance' against me, who am a hero, governing Japan. Set your mind at ease and fill another cup. 'Saké is the best broom to sweep away sorrow.' I will join you."

So saying, Nobunaga drained two or three cupfuls in rapid succession. Ano-no-Tsuboné warned him, saying: "'Remissness is a great enemy,' my lord. You would do well to ponder over what Sir Rammaru said just now."