Page:Tales from old Japanese dramas (1915).djvu/181

Rh The old quack purposely assumed a serious countenance, and looked intently at Sashirō's face for a good while.

"Oh, you have a remarkable physiognomy," he exclaimed. "I judge from it that you are thirty-one years of age. Am I indeed correct? You seem to be a very rich man, and with such wealth at your disposal you can accomplish anything you desire."

At this keen insight, Sashirō was wonder-struck. The old man continued: "You have come to ask my help in a love affair, I dare say. Am I right, sir?" Sashirō nodded reverentially, filled both with astonishment and admiration. "Well," continued the clairvoyant, "there is an obstacle in the way of your love affair. You cannot hope to realize your desire, until you have disposed of a serious rival. If you like I will do away with him by virtue of prayers. If he is got out of the way, there is no doubt your purpose will be attained. sir."

These words inspired Sashirō with an absolute confidence in the powers of the fortune-teller, and he decided to invite him to his house, in order that he might offer prayers for seven days and seven