Page:Tales from old Japanese dramas (1915).djvu/343

Rh opinion the safest course for you is to go again to Kamakura and by leading a life of pleasure there to distract their attention from us, and so avert the danger."

Jirōzayémon was not slow to perceive the treacherous motive that underlay Takita's suggestion, but he dissembled his thoughts with a show of utter ignorance.

"Takita is right in what he says, but I have an opinion of my own," he said calmly; "but the discussion of this matter will bear waiting till another occasion. For to-day, I would ask you, my lord, to make yourself at home in the inner apartment." To this proposal Yoshioki nodded his assent and quietly walked into the inner room, followed by the two samurai.

Just as the sun was setting, and when the dusk was gathering, there came a knock at the porch of Jirōzayémon's house. He went in person to the entry and found a man standing there, who forthwith proceeded to introduce himself: "My name is Sekisuké, and I serve Akizuki Yuminosuké, Chief Councillor of the Kishido Clan of Aki Province. Very important business has brought me to make this call upon you, sir."