A Japanese miscellany - University of Oregon

Of a Promise Broken 2^
should have been suffering in such a way during
my absence. To-night, also, I must be at the
castle ; but you shall not be alone. I will order
two of the retainers to keep watch in your room
and you will be able to sleep in peace. They are
good men ; and they will take all possible care of
you."
Then he spoke to her so considerately and so
affectionately that she became almost ashamed of
her terrors, and resolved to remain in the house.
Ill
The two retainers left in charge of the young wife
were big, brave, simple-hearted men, — experi-
enced guardians of women and children. They
told the bride pleasant stories to keep her cheer-
ful. She talked with them a long time, laughed
at their good-humored fun, and almost forgot
her fears. When at last she lay down to sleep,
the men-at-arms took their places in a corner of
the room, behind a screen, and began a game of
go,^ — speaking only in whispers, that she might
not be disturbed. She slept like an infant.
1 A game resembling draughts, but much more com-
plicated.
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