So far was this prudent advice from making the least impression upon the Djogoun, that he persisted in his career of prodigality and extravagance. His son, Tokou-mats-kimi, had died in his infancy. Tsouno-yosi, enervated by debauchery, and having long renounced all intercourse with women, could not hope for an heir; he therefore resolved, in the sixth year Fo-ye (1709), to look round for a successor.
He cast his eyes on Kai-no-kami, son of Yanagisava-dewa-no-kami, whom he determined to adopt. On the 11th of the first month of the year, it is customary for the Djogoun to give an entertainment to the princes and chief officers, after they have paid him their compliments of congratulation. This opportunity was chosen by Yosi to declare publicly his intention of adopting Kai-no-kami.
His first officer, Ino-kamon-no-kami, represented to him, that such a step would displease all the princes, and it was much to be feared that it would produce a revolution in the empire. Finding his remonstrances unavailing, he repaired to the wife of the Djogoun, informed her of his master's design, and after he had made her sensible that ii it were carried into execution, a general rebellion would be inevitable, he entreated her to think of some means to prevent such a calamity. Having reflected a few moments, she desired him not to be uneasy, as she had bethought herself of an expedient which could not fail to produce the desired effect; and when he urged her to communicate her plan to him, she replied that she could not say more at the moment, but he should soon know it all.
The day preceding that on which the Djogoun intended to nominate his successor, she sent to request the prince to take zakki with her. The Djogoun accepted the invitation, and she caused a sumptuous repast to be provided for him. While he was engaged in drinking, she rose, stepped into her closet, where she wrote a note to Ino-kamon-no-kami, directing him how to act; and then furnishing herself with a dagger, which is usually worn by all women of distinction, she returned to the festive apartment. Soon afterwards, she ordered all her women to retire, telling the Djogoun that she wished to speak to him in private. When they were alone, she thus addressed him: "During the many years that we have been together, you have never refused me any thing. I have to-day a fresh favour to solicit of you. Will you grant it me?"
