“You are at liberty to name the terms,” urged Hideyoshi, upon Ieyasu, more in irony than of earnest; no longer doubtful about the latter’s attitude, toward Yodogima.

“I want neither women nor wealth; they are alike fatal to government,” retorted Ieyasu, neither heedless nor unready.

“Oh, very well; we shall omit the latter, if you like, but the former are indispensable, I take it; however, one or so more or less doesn’t matter much, to me; besides, you may change your mind: Hideyoshi can then the better supply you: my collection is not a mean one—”

“And your mother a good enough security. What say you to that, bickerer?”

“It is agreeable: you can have her, as hostage, of course.”

“Hardly for another purpose, as a matter of choice; knowing her son, as I do.”

“There are worse mothers—you will not deny her the comfort of a daughter, my sister Saji?”

“I can relieve you as well of her support, if that is any object.”

“Thanks. She may not seem extravagant to Ieyasu. And, you might not dislike, also, Jokoin, my recently adopted daughter?”

“Perhaps I had better take, instead, Esyo, and make an end of it.”