Nearly crying out, the now fast discerning princess, almost overcome with eagerness, held fast hold upon the face-chords; yet no longer vainly shying, permitted a somewhat closer approach than before—if none the less dignified or becoming, at that.

For the first time, though slight the occasion, Hideyoshi’s heart bounded with relief. The exactions of war or the involutions of deceit no longer commanded first attention; the faintest relaxation of a hard-held and safely-guarded privilege had transfixed his whole energy, wrought a new being; though the destiny of a nation and the trend of government, henceforth and always, might evolve therefrom.

“You shall not condescend to answer by word, however pleasing that might be; goddesses have only to will it thus or that, and mere man must break his neck to do it so. Shall we go?”

“Toward Hiyeisan?” queried Yodogima, innocently, yet significantly.

“No; in the opposite direction; across the lake. I know a temple there, close down at the water’s edge, better rid of a kind and more select about its visitations, where we can drink deeply and no mortal shall question. Hence, Yodogima?”

“On one condition—but will not to-morrow do; I cannot make answer so soon?” promised she, thoughtful to gain as much time as possible; having measured accurately the probabilities of Hidenaga’s advance.

“Granted, my lady: what is it?”

“The condition is that my sister Esyo accompany us—Jokoin nor Oyea would be either serviceable or agreeable, as I believe, considering the purpose that you have in mind and the rebellion that pours from my heart. In as much, I have to ask you and you to grant only this: that you heed nor hold me any other or for more.”

“What? Have you not heard of the hostilities?”

“Yes; my sister told me about it.”