with joy and expectation. Presently enters Oboshi Rikiya. Even in walking on the mat, he observes the etiquette. He is yet in his seventeenth year; his forelock stands erect; with his family crest of double-tomoe and his two swords, he looks fine and dignified. In his appearance he is worthy of his father Oboshi Yuranosuke. He sits down quietly.
Rikiya. I beg to deliver my message.
Recitative. He speaks with courtesy; and Konami suddenly lays her hands on the mat before her. They look at each other; each loves the other, but remains speechless. Their blushing faces are as one the plum-blossom and the other the cherry-flower. At last, Konami recollects herself.
Konami. Ah, you are welcome. I am ordered to hear your message; and will you give it to me direct from your lips to mine?
Recitative. And she approaches him, but he turns aside.
Rikiya. Nay, that would be discourteous. In delivering and receiving messages, etiquette is always of the first importance.
Recitative. He shuffles backward and lays his hands before him on the mat.
Rikiya. This is the message my master Enya Hangwan presents to Lord Wakasanosuke: “As we are to attend at the Palace of the Governor-General Lord Tadayoshi before daybreak to-morrow, it is believed that the guests also will arrive early. Lord Moronao has therefore ordered that Hangwan and Wakasanosuke should present themselves at the Palace without fail at the seventh hour[3]. And to provide against all chance of a mistake arising, my master Hangwan has sent me with the message. You will please, then, report to this effect to my Lord Wakasanosuke.”
Recitative. His words flow so smoothly that Konami gazes at his face in fascination and gives no answer.