Of my dearest lover,
With muffled cries at night
Like the lonely plover.”
Okaru is sunk in thought as she feels how fitly the song describes her own position. Here Heiyemon comes in and meets her.
Heiyemon. Are you not my sister?
Okaru. Oh, is it you, brother? I am ashamed to be seen here.
Recitative. She hides her face.
Heiyemon. There is no cause for shame. When I came back from the Eastern Provinces, I saw our mother and heard it all. You bravely sold yourself for your husband and for our lord. Well done, sister.
Okaru. I am glad if you think so kindly of me. But rejoice with me. To-night, though I did not expect it, I am to be redeemed.
Heiyemon. That is excellent. And by whom?