He raised his face to hers and answered:

“Takara!”

Then she cried:

“It was not I! Oh, honourable father, it was not I that did it!”

Maido said:

“I understand. It was he who stole it. You are my deliverer. You have brought me news.”

“And he knows not your fate, but is not deceived. He lives and I am still his wife. Shibusawa will vindicate his father’s name. I swear it!”

Takara straightened up and the fire flashed from her eyes, as her words pierced the dull air around her.

“It is well.”

These were the words with which Maido bade the world a last farewell, with which he forgave his traducers, and with which he welcomed death. He knew Takara’s power and believed in her sincerity. He was ready to die.