Page:Tales from old Japanese dramas (1915).djvu/247

Rh hope. He realized his dangerous situation. He therefore sprang on his steed, intending to go back to his camp.

A moment later, several soldiers with drawn swords sallied out of the gate, and surrounded him. A spirited combat at once ensued. Then Atsumori, gallantly clad in beautiful armour, rode forth, and cut at Suyéshigé. The latter found it impossible to fight any longer against such odds, so he spurred his horse, and beat a retreat. Atsumori alone galloped in hot pursuit of the fleeing warrior.

For some time Tamaori ran about along the beach in search of the young cavalier.

"Atsumori Sama! Atsumori Sama!" she cried. "It is dangerous for you to ride alone through the darkness of night. For pity's sake come back!"

By this time, day had begun to dawn. Suyéshigé, who had succeeded in making good his escape, was highly delighted to meet unexpectedly at this spot, the beautiful maiden for whom he had longed so passionately.

He alighted, ran up to her, and burst forth into the eloquence of ardent love. He said that as he had received a promise from her father, he would