Page:Tales from old Japanese dramas (1915).djvu/282

212 turned tail, slunk up the bank and precipitately took to their heels. Asojirō was minded to pursue them in their flight, but at Miyuki's earnest entreaty he gave up the idea.

"Please sit down and think no more about it," she said, extending a saké cup toward him. "I cannot find words to convey to you my gratitude for your timely interference. I am sorry indeed that we have nothing tempting to set before you, but allow me to offer you some wine."

"You are very kind, but I really must be going."

Here Asaka broke in. "Pray do not leave us so soon," said she. "As you see, we are all of us women, and it is to be feared that other miscreants may break in upon our privacy. I am sorry to impose upon your good nature, but let me beg of you to remain with us until our boatmen return."

"In that case," said Asojirō, "it will give me great pleasure to remain in your company."

Soon the three were exchanging cups and talking merrily. Asojirō revealed to the girl his name and circumstances and she reciprocated with a similar confidence. Miyuki's heart was bounding with joy and she seemed to wish to make a further revelation, but hesitated in expressing it. The