Wakasanosuke. I have heard your message; and I am obliged to you.
Recitative. And with these words Wakasanosuke comes in.
Wakasanosuke. Since we parted yesterday, I have not been able to see Lord Hangwan. Yes, I will present myself punctually at the seventh hour. I thank Lord Hangwan for his message; and please present to him my compliments. I am also obliged to you.
Rikiya. Then I will take my leave, my lord. I am grateful to you, lady, for receiving my message.
Recitative. He stands up quietly, and without once looking back, adjusts his dress, and goes away. Immediately Honzo comes in from another room.
Honzo. Ha, are you here, my lord? I hear you must be present at the seventh hour to-morrow morning. It is close upon the ninth hour[4], and I beg you will take a rest.
Wakasanosuke. Yes, yes. But Honzo, I have something to say to you in private. Send away Konami.
Honzo. Ah, daughter, we will clap our hands when we want you. And so go in.
Recitative. He sends away his daughter. And wondering at his lord’s strange look, he comes close to him.
Honzo. I have been wanting to ask you, my lord, for some time; now I beg you to tell me all.