Page:The Japanese Fairy Book.djvu/302

Rh "Hako! Stop! The General of the front forces must be I!"

He looked back and saw Eiko his comrade, riding on a white horse, in the act of unsheathing a large sword to draw

upon him. Hako's anger was kindled, and as he turned to face his rival he cried:

"Insolent wretch! I have been appointed by the Empress to lead the front forces to battle. Do you dare to stop me?"

"Yes," answered Eiko. "I ought to lead the army. It is you who should follow me."