< Page:Brinkley - Japan - Volume 3.djvu
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REFINEMENTS AND PASTIMES

Man-at-arms. 'Tis so, Sir.

Benkei. Truly, truly! (aside.) I understand. This cup of kindness is to wash away our caution! Let it but increase our vigilance!

Chorus.
Show no surprise! By Benkei warned,
Under the shadow of the hill
In watchful round each pilgrim sits,
To drink the cup of compliment.

Benkei. Joy! In the mountain stream.[1]

Chorus.
Joy! In the mountain stream
Floating the wine-cup.
Caught by the current, it
Spins down the eddies.
Waving sleeves, come, come!
Tread we a measure.
Erstwhile at Hiyeizan
Benkei an acolyte,[2]
Skilled in the sacred dance.
"Song of the water-fall.
Echoed from rock to rock.
Sweeter no melody."[3]

Benkei. I have well drunk. Let me fill your cup.

Togashi. Then I will pledge you. Pray you, dance a measure.

Benkei. At your service.

Chorus. "Song of the water-fall"—

Benkei (singing and dancing). "Song of the water-fall"—

Chorus.
"Song of the water-fall;
Plash plash and babble!
Gurgle and drip drop!"
  1. ↑ See appendix, note 18.
  2. ↑ See appendix, note 19.
  3. ↑ See appendix, note 20.

47

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