Arrived at the belfry, the Emperor, gathering his cloak closely about him, stepped gingerly upon its broad platform, and stood there doubtfully regarding the swaying iron chain, from which was suspended, close to the bell, the heavy metal hammer.
“I am to draw this back,” mumbled Kommei, stupidly.
“You are to draw it back as far as the chain will permit, your Majesty,” answered Mori. “Do, I beg your Majesty, ring; sound the signal at once.”
The Emperor, stretching out his hand, reached for the chain with its swinging hammer. A form burst from out the iris bed behind him. In alarm, the trembling Kommei dropped the chain.
“Quick!” whispered Mori, excitedly. “Ring, sire—ring!”
“Ring, sire!” repeated Echizen, frantically.
But the Emperor was staring with fascinated gaze into the face of Aidzu, who stood beside him.
“Do nothing of the kind, sire,” he panted, heavily. “Do nothing of the kind. It means ruin to the empire.”
“It means ruin to your enemies, sire,” cried Echizen.
“It means death,” said Aidzu.