"Mother," said the Shogun, "turn your thoughts to embroidery and dress: that is woman's sphere."
Nagato entered hurriedly, that he might not longer be an unsuspected listener.
"My gracious master asked for me," he said. Yodogimi turned and blushed slightly on seeing the Prince, who bowed low before her.
"I have something to say to you," said the Shogun.
"Then I will retire," said Yodogimi bitterly, "and go back to my embroidery."
She crossed the room slowly, rustling her trailing silken robes, and casting as she went out a singular look at Nagato, compounded of coquetry and hate.
"You heard my mother," said Fide-Yori.
"Yes," said Nagato.
"Every one is anxious to detach me from you, my friend: what can be their motive?"
"Your mother is blinded by some calumny," said the Prince; "the others see in me a clear-sighted foe, who can outwit the plots which they contrive against you."