“I am no beggar to crave for alms,” replied the stranger proudly. “I am one Nishimura Gonshirō, till three years ago in the service of Lord Ujisato. I have come to speak a word with your master. Kindly inform his honour of my visit.”
Gonzaemon was delighted to hear of the return of the long vainly sought absentee. To the disgust of the usher who looked with disdain on the dirty and travel-worn appearance of the guest, he was admitted into the inner guest chamber. After a cordial greeting Gonzaemon asked:—
“And how have you been getting along since you left us so suddenly, Gonshirō?”
“But badly, your honour. They say ‘a faithful servant never serves two masters,’ but my case has been different. You see, I forsook my lord and of my own will became a rōnin. Hoping to enter the service of a more honourable chief I travelled from one province to another. But I was always unfortunate. Those whom I would have chosen to serve would have none of me—a deserter from another clan; those who would have accepted me were not good enough to suit my taste. After long and bitter experiences I have come to the conclusion that there is no daimio so worthy of allegiance as my former master, Lord Gamō. So I have come back to see if he will overlook my bad conduct in the past and let me re-enter his ranks. Of course, I do not expect to receive my former pay. I shall be grateful and more than satisfied if he will let me wait upon him as a humble attendant. Will you be so kind as to intercede for me?”
“You have done right to come back,” answered the karō, kindly. “Sooth to say, our lord has greatly regretted his foolish jest and has caused strict search to be made to discover your whereabouts and if possible get you to return. He will rejoice to hear my news. Wait here and refresh yourself while I go and tell him.”
Gonzaemon did not keep his visitor waiting long. He told Gonshirō that his lordship was pleased that he had come back and desired to see him at once.
“Excuse my mentioning such a thing,” continued, the karō, “but your garments are worn and travel-stained. May I not accommodate you with a change of apparel before you present yourself before his lordship?”
“On no account,” returned the samurai. “You are very kind, but allow me to go as I am. My shabby condition will give my lord some idea of the hardships I have undergone as a rōnin.”
“As you please, my independent fellow!”
The two men so different in aspect went up to the castle and waited in an ante-room till summoned to Lord Gamō’s presence.