Recitative. They shuffle back and bow to Gihei three times.
All. We crave pardon for our rude conduct.
Recitative. They press their heads on the mats.
Gihei. Now, you embarrass me. Pray, raise your hands and heads. As they say, try a horse by riding and a man by associating with him, it was natural that the gentlemen who did not know me should feel uneasy. I was formerly a poor man, but through your lord’s favour, I rose to my present fortune. I was mortified like yourselves upon hearing of the Lord Hangwan’s fate, I revolved in my mind various ways of wiping away this great shame; but my efforts were no more availing than those of a turtle trying to stamp on the ground. While I was thinking how powerless I was, came this request from Master Yuranosuke; instantly I complied, and without a thought of consequences to myself, I took courage like yourselves. Poor is the merchant’s lot; had I received but a handful of rice for a stipend, I would have clung to your sleeves and skirts and begged you to take me with you on this great expedition, if only to pour you tea or water to quench your thirst in the fight. Even that may not be, and how mean is the merchant’s position! How great are your lord’s favours and the power of the sword! I envy you for laying down your lives for them. And when you serve your lord in the other world, pray, make mention of the little service that Gihei has done.
Recitative. At these sincere words, his hearers’ eyes are filled with tears and they clench their teeth.
Yuranosuke. We leave to-night for Kamakura; and it will not be a hundred days hence before we accomplish our object. I hear you have sent away even your wife and thank you for your great sacrifice. We will enable you before long to call her home, and you will kindly put up for the present with the inconvenience. We now take our leave.
Gihei. Nay, you are going on what we may call an auspicious journey; and I would offer you wine.
Yuranosuke. Nay, but ............
Gihei. But I would celebrate the occasion with hand-cut soba[3]
Yuranosuke. What, hand-cut! That is a good omen. Then, Owashi and Yazama will remain behind; but those of the advance party will call for Goemon and Rikiya and proceed to the Grove of Sada.