filling the nose, ears, and mouth with vermilion. In the case of the
very wealthy, the coffin is completely filled in with vermilion. The
family of the Princes of Mito, and some other nobles, bury their dead
in a recumbent position.]

Tôken Gombei, when he heard the "Father" speak thus, was horrified,
and tried to dissuade him from obeying the invitation. But Chôbei's
mind was fixed, and, without heeding Gombei's remonstrances, he
proceeded to give instructions as to the disposal of his property
after his death, and to settle all his earthly affairs.

On the following day, towards noon, he made ready to go to
Jiurozayémon's house, bidding one of his apprentices precede him with
a complimentary present.[31] Jiurozayémon, who was waiting with
impatience for Chôbei to come, so soon as he heard of his arrival
ordered his retainers to usher him into his presence; and Chôbei,
having bade his apprentices without fail to come and fetch him that
night, went into the house.

[Footnote 31: It is customary, on the occasion of a first visit to a
house, to carry a present to the owner, who gives something of equal
value on returning the visit.]

No sooner had he reached the room next to that in which Jiurozayémon
was sitting than he saw that his suspicions of treachery were well
founded; for two men with drawn swords rushed upon him, and tried to
cut him down. Deftly avoiding their blows, however, he tripped up the
one, and kicking the other in the ribs, sent him reeling and
breathless against the wall; then, as calmly as if nothing had
happened he presented himself before Jiurozayémon, who, peeping