Shibata, chafed at Katsutoya’s omission or disobedience and Hideyoshi’s keen eye, readily discerned the possibilities of so potent a failure.

“Junkei?” commanded he, as he and his train approached, on the way to Kyoto, the recently surrendered castle of Nagahama.

“Yes, my lord.”

“Tell Takiyama Hideyoshi would pay Katsutoya a visit, en route.”

“What!”

“Fool! Control yourself; do as bid; and with a good face.”

“But Katsutoya is an enemy’s favorite, and we have only a small guard.”

“Hence worth our while; and do you comprehend? Cease conjecturing; Hideyoshi knows. Nobunaga is dead: Yodogima, mine.”

They three met in council at the narrow pass leading to Katsutoya’s new charge. It was dark, and Takiyama conjured new dangers. Hideyoshi bade him disarm and lead the way.

“It is madness,” whispered Takiyama, more thoughtful of himself than of his duty.