But over her fallen head the voice of the Prince Keiki was full of joy.
“And now I have heard the great trouble, and have I not burst it like a bubble? Henceforward, then, let there be only happiness and joy in these eyes and these lips.” Reverently he pressed her eyes and lips.
Genji was heard outside the door. His face was very grave and his whole appearance perturbed when he entered.
Bowing deeply to the Prince, he addressed him hastily:
“Your excellency, the Lord of Catzu has arrived at my insignificant house and is below. It is his wish that the marriage of his niece should be celebrated without further delay. I come to you, therefore, to beg that you will consent to its immediate consummation.”
“I comply with gladness,” replied the Prince, “but may I inquire the reason for this haste?”
“The Lord Catzu Toro is in critical peril in your august father’s province.”
“Enough!” interrupted the Prince, impulsively. “You desire my immediate mediation in his behalf?”
He turned to Wistaria with an exclamation of delight. “Now,” said he, “we shall see all our troubles melt into thin air like mist before the sun.”
“But I have not told you all—there is more still to tell. I pray you—” Wistaria began.