Page:Tales from old Japanese dramas (1915).djvu/368

292 At that moment Shinzayémon, who had returned home unawares, was heard crying in an inner room: "Disobedient servant! I will chastise you."

With these words he rushed forth with a spear in his hand, and pushing aside Sawarabi and Hatsuhana, who tried to stop him, leaped down to the courtyard, and levelled his weapon at Michisuké.

The latter did not show any fear, but with great skill avoided the spear-head each time it was thrust at him. While they were thus engaged Shinzayémon's face gradually turned pale, his steps became unsteady, and his spear quivered. Michisuké observed him carefully, and said:

"Excuse me, my lord, but why is your spear so unsteady? It is not worthy of the greatest master of fencing in the Hōjō Clan. Your pale face and your uncertain steps tell me that you have committed harakiri."

Shinzayémon was struck with amazement at the other's sharp observation. He reeled and fell on his back, exclaiming: "Your keen-sightedness astonishes me, Sir Iinuma Katsugorō!"

So saying, he tore off his upper garments, and exposed his abdomen, which was bound with