the poem and slicing of the cleric, must
have compensation. His tread was slow and stately as he left the room;
his looks were contained and thoughtful. The man of black robe was
carried off to a better reception than so far experienced. With scorn he
sent away the scanty meal of vegetable food; and ordered matters to his
taste with a manner that none cared to obey, or dared to disobey.

Meanwhile Jubei started in on the poem. With the progress of his
efforts ideas of his greatness disappeared. No matter what might be his
skill with the sword--and the priest already had shown its
limitations--his inexperience in literature was patent. Ah! If he could
but win the head of this scurvy cleric. His mind now was totally removed
from thoughts of himself. For two days and two nights he never closed
his eyes, which were fastened on the infernal ideographs--palpably so
full of a meaning he could not grasp. Then he was worn out. He went to
sleep, and slept for a full twenty-four hours. On awaking he was a
different being. The cobwebs of the mind were clean swept. Its vague
shiftings had been brought to concentration--to thought. Now it was the
household which was mad with joy. It was Jubei, lord of the manor, who
sought interview with his saviour. Prostrate he gave thanks, apology for
the poor entertainment; and expressed his hope and wish to keep always
by him the holy man. Who was he--this man who had given him back mind
and power of thought? Just then a messenger from his father, Tajima no
Kami, was announced. Those assembled leaned forward at sight of the man
in amazed prostration, first before his lord, then before the shabby old
priest. "Takuan Osho[u] Sama at Yagyu! And yet this Kyu[u]taro[u] has
made all speed to Yamato to make report of his lordship's coming." All
fell on their faces, including Jubei. Takuan smiled, a little grimly.
"The garb makes not the cleric. Jubei Dono will forgive the presence of
the humble priest who now must leave him, pressed by affairs, none of
which have been more important than the mission here." And leave he
did--but ample gifts to the temple followed after. Jubei never could
take his father's place close to the Sho[u]gun's side. His one-time
madness forbade assumption of such office. Indeed on rare occasions the
mad fit again would threaten; but the infallible remedy was at hand. To
Jubei's question Takuan had answered--"The meaning? The poem has none.
If there had been verily Takuan would