Echizen interrupted quietly.
“Your Majesty, I do assure you that the Prince Mori is guiltless.”
Kommei turned rapidly to the speaker.
“You can explain, Echizen?”
“I can.”
“Proofs are many,” said Aidzu, thrusting his head forward, “that this young man incited the outrages.”
Again forgetting himself, the sensitive and impulsive Mori leaped towards the speaker.
“You lie!” he thundered. Then recalling himself, he turned towards the Mikado.
“I crave your Majesty’s pardon, but”—his voice trembled in spite of him—“that worm lies.”
The Emperor stared from Aidzu to Mori, then back to Echizen.