Page:Tales from old Japanese dramas (1915).djvu/417

Rh lordship should be killed by any rash deed on your part, who is there to guard the Emperor and accomplish the great task of subduing the traitor? Think carefully over the matter, before you decide to proceed, my lord."

Hyōgo had scarcely spoken, when Kemmotsu came up, carrying two or three heads.

"I have glad news for your lordship," said he fervently. "The traitor has found it impossible to resist the fierce attack of our troops, and his regiments have fled like cowards to Kamakura. Your lordship had better avail yourself of this opportunity. You should give chase to the enemy without a moment's delay. You can, then, I am sure, readily take Taka-uji's head. Your chance has come, my lord."

The excited General was so delighted to hear this news, that he could not afford to hesitate. He immediately ordered his troops to advance in pursuit of the retreating enemy. He then spurred his horse on, in order to ride at the head of his ranks. But Hyōgo grasped his horse's bit, in order to keep the animal back. Yoshi-oki cried out with rage, and raising his war-fan, he soundly beat his retainer about the face with