Ichimonjiya. Well, whether you understand it or not, that is your business. I will hand you the balance and take the girl home.

Recitative. He takes the money from his bosom.

Ichimonjiya. Here is the remaining fifty ryo; and it makes up the hundred ryo. I hand it to you, and so take it.

Mother. But before your father comes home, I cannot let you go, can I, Karu?

Ichimonjiya. Why, dawdling like this, we shall never have done. See, here is Yoichibei’s seal; you have not a word to say now. This bond speaks for me. This girl’s service I have bought with money to-day; and a day’s delay means so much loss to me. I suppose I must use force.

Recitative. He seizes Okaru by the hand and drags her.

Mother. Please, wait.

Recitative. The mother clings to him; but he pushes her away. He forces Okaru into the palanquin. But just as it is lifted up, Kanpei returns, gun on his shoulder and with a straw rain-coat and hat on. He enters the house.

Kanpei. My wife in the palanquin, where are you going?

Mother. I am glad you have come home at this moment.