Hie! Is any one there?
FOLLOWER.
Here I am.
BENKEI.
I sent for you to tell you that I shall be going to the Gojō Temple to-night.
FOLLOWER.
I tremble and listen. But there is a matter that I must bring to your notice. I hear that yesterday there was a boy of twelve or thirteen guarding the Gojō Bridge. They say he was slashing round with his short sword as nimble as a bird or butterfly. I beg that you will not make your pilgrimage to-night. Do not court this peril.
BENKEI.
That’s a strange thing to ask! Why, were he demon or hobgoblin, he could not stand alone against many. We will surround him and you shall soon see him on his knees.