“That can wait. I desire to see this Nagai first. If you refuse, it only remains for me to leave Yedo at once without paying my respects to his lordship. I have spoken.”
There was no doubting that Terumasa meant what he said. There was nothing for it but to apprise their master of what had happened in spite of their precautions, and to leave the matter to his judgment. Sakai Saemon bowed low as he said:—
“My lord, deign to wait a few minutes. I will oblige you with all speed.”
“No equivocation, mind. Beware how you play with me!”
Sakai withdrew, his three friends having already disappeared. Terumasa smiled grimly to himself. Nothing was lost upon him.
The four retainers hastened to their lord’s chamber. He looked up as they entered and asked pleasantly:—
“Well, he has arrived?”
“Yes, your lordship.”
“Is all well?”
“No, your lordship; we fear the worst has happened.”