through a chink in the sliding-doors, had watched his retainers'
failure.

"Welcome, welcome, Master Chôbei," said he. "I always had heard that
you were a man of mettle, and I wanted to see what stuff you were made
of; so I bade my retainers put your courage to the test. That was a
masterly throw of yours. Well, you must excuse this churlish
reception: come and sit down by me."

"Pray do not mention it, my lord," said Chôbei, smiling rather
scornfully. "I know that my poor skill is not to be measured with
that of a noble Samurai; and if these two good gentlemen had the worst
of it just now, it was mere luck--that's all."

So, after the usual compliments had been exchanged, Chôbei sat down by
Jiurozayémon, and the attendants brought in wine and condiments.
Before they began to drink, however, Jiurozayémon said--

"You must be tired and exhausted with your walk this hot day, Master
Chôbei. I thought that perhaps a bath might refresh you, so I ordered
my men to get it ready for you. Would you not like to bathe and make
yourself comfortable?"

Chôbei suspected that this was a trick to strip him, and take him
unawares when he should have laid aside his dirk. However, he answered
cheerfully--

"Your lordship is very good. I shall be glad to avail myself of your
kind offer. Pray excuse me for a few moments."