Page:Tales from old Japanese dramas (1915).djvu/147

Rh filled with water. You are at liberty to light the fire, and warm it for a bath. I'll take a bath when you have finished."

"Most certainly. I'll do so gladly."

With these words he went out to the bath-room.

Soon afterwards Jūjirō arrived. He was accompanied by a retainer carrying his armour-chest. It was the young samurai's intention to make his start for the battle from his grandmother's dwelling.

"I am very glad to see you in such good health, grandmother," he said, bowing politely. "Has mother communicated my request to you? Will you grant it?"

"I am indeed glad to see you, Jūjirō," answered Satsuki almost overcome with joy, "of course I will permit you to go to the battle! Hatsugiku is fortunately here, so it is my ardent wish that before you set out for your first battle, you will celebrate your marriage with her. Your joy, dearest girl, must be very great! I will at once fetch some saké so that you can exchange the nuptial cups."

Hatsugiku's face was so crimson with blushes that it resembled a frost-bitten maple leaf. She