whose life they had saved on the occasion of their picnic to Mount Ohara. It was on that day that they had exchanged their love-vows. They therefore freely confided in him, and told him the whole story of their unfortunate love affairs, and how they had exchanged vows of eternal fidelity. They also told how Komachi's poem had caused rain to fall at the "poetry-meeting" in consequence of which she had been appointed Crown Princess. They gave an account of their elopement, and begged the priest earnestly to protect and shelter them for the time being. The priest promptly and willingly consented, saying:
"Willingly, my lord and lady. I will do anything in my power to help you. You can stay here as long as you choose. But I am afraid the accommodation is very inconvenient. However, in such an out-of-the-way place you will be safe from all pursuers. But you must eat, for you are sure to be consumed with hunger. I will run to the village and get you some food. Please rest in the inner room until I return."
With these words the priest went out. Komachi and Arihira, feeling greatly relieved, walked in, and settled down to rest in the inner room.
