Retainers. We, the retainers of the house, beg to be permitted to look once more upon our lord’s face. May we present ourselves before him? Inquire for us, Master Goemon.
Recitative. On hearing the retainers’ request, Goemon turns to his lord.
Goemon. How shall I answer them, my lord?
Hangwan. Their request is natural; but I cannot permit them until Yuranosuke comes.
Recitative. Goemon turns to the sliding-door of the next room.
Goemon. You have heard our lord’s will, and not one of you may come in.
Recitative. The retainers have not a word to say in reply, and the whole room is deadly still. At the word from his lord, Rikiya brings the dirk which he has ready for the self-immolation and places it before his lord. Calmly Hangwan doffs the kataginu[3] and sits more at ease.
Hangwan. Now, my lords, see the sentence carried out.
Recitative. He draws the wooden stand towards him and, taking up the dirk, raises it to his head.
Hangwan. Rikiya, Rikiya.