Page:Tales from old Japanese dramas (1915).djvu/439

Rh Yoshiminé was filled with an ecstasy of joy, and turning to Utena, said: "How glad I am, my dear Utena. My brother is dead, but his spirit still remains in this world to protect us. The best means by which I can requite his great kindness is to gather together all loyal patriots and destroy the traitor, Taka-uji, and the cruel murderer of my brother."

At that moment numerous torchlights and lanterns were seen gleaming brightly on the opposite bank. It seemed as if a large number of men had come to pursue them. Yoshiminé and his love, in order to escape their foes, fled as fast as they were able.

Shortly afterwards, Takezawa Kemmotsu appeared with several soldiers. They instantly sprang into a boat and rowed with might and main. When the party had reached the centre of the stream a wonderful thing happened. A storm accompanied by thunder and lightning suddenly arose and the water was covered with huge billows. The soldiers were terrified at this awful sight, and dropping their oars, they left the boat to the mercy of the waves. Kemmotsu sprang up and glaring at the sky, cried: "Don't