"Great thanks to you, sir. I will go and second Kazuma."

So Matayémon went to help Kazuma, whilst his second and the infantry
soldiers kept back the surviving Rônins, who, already wearied by their
fight with Matayémon, were unfit for any further exertion. Kazuma
meanwhile was still fighting with Matagorô, and the issue of the
conflict was doubtful; and Takénouchi Gentan, in his attempt to rescue
Matagorô, was being kept at bay by Magohachi, who, weakened by his
wounds, and blinded by the blood which was streaming into his eyes
from a cut in the forehead, had given himself up for lost when
Matayémon came and cried--

"Be of good cheer, Magohachi; it is I, Matayémon, who have come to the
rescue. You are badly hurt; get out of harm's way, and rest yourself."

Then Magohachi, who until then had been kept up by his anxiety for
Kazuma's safety, gave in, and fell fainting from loss of blood; and
Matayémon worsted and slew Gentan; and even then, although be had
received two wounds, he was not exhausted, but drew near to Kazuma and
said--

"Courage, Kazuma! The Rônins are all killed, and there now remains
only Matagorô, your father's murderer. Fight and win!"

The youth, thus encouraged, redoubled his efforts; but Matagorô,
losing heart, quailed and fell. So Kazuma's vengeance was fulfilled,
and the desire of his heart was accomplished.

The two faithful retainers, who had died in their loyalty, were buried
with great ceremony, and Kazuma carried the head of Matagorô and