Rikiya. An express messenger has just brought a secret letter from Lady Kaoyo.
Yuranosuke. Was there no verbal message, besides?
Rikiya. Our enemy Kono Moronao’s application for permission to return to his province has been granted and he will shortly start for home. The message added that the particulars would be found in the letter.
Yuranosuke. Very well. You will go home and send a palanquin for me in the night. Now, go.
Recitative. Without a moment’s hesitation, he runs back towards Yamashina. Anxious to see what the letter might say, Yuranosuke is about to open it, when Kudayu calls to him.
Kudayu. Master Oboshi, Master Yura, it is Ono Kudayu. I wish to see you.
Yuranosuke. Ah, it is a long, long time; we have not met for a year, and have grown old, very old. Have you come here to stretch out those wrinkles on your forehead? Oh, you old reprobate!
Kudayu. Master Yura, in a great deed, they say, little defects are overlooked. Your dissipation here in defiance of evil tongues will be the foundation of your great deed. I think you a fine man of great promise.
Yuranosuke. Ha, ha, you drive me hard, hard as a catapult. But leave it alone.