Page:Tales from old Japanese dramas (1915).djvu/379

Rh had this wagon hastily built, in order that you, Hatsuhana, might wheel away Katsugorō in it to some place of safety. With this wagon it is not difficult for you, lady, to draw your husband anywhere you choose. I advise you both to leave here as soon as possible."

Katsugorō and Hatsuhana were so filled with gratitude at the old man's words, that they burst into tears.

Tokuyémon presented them with some money, and bidding the weeping couple farewell, departed reluctantly.

Katsugorō followed the dwindling figure of the old man with devoted eyes, and said between his sobs: "What a vast difference there is between some men! On one hand we see a benevolent man like Tokuyémon, while on the other a bad man like Kōzuké. What a rascal the man must be to hunt us up, even in these remote solitudes. How and when can I attain my purpose, as long as I remain in this crippled and sickly condition? I surely was born under an evil star!"

"Oh, don't give way to despair," said Hatsuhana. "I have invoked the god Gongen of Hakoné, for your recovery. I'm sure that through