THE FORTY-SEVEN RONINS	23
the same time Chikara and his party broke in by
the back gate.
Then Oishi Kuranosuke sent a messenger to
the neighbouring houses, bearing the following
message: "We, the Ronins who were formerly
in the service of Asano Takumi no Kami, are this
night about to break into the palace of Kotsuke
no Suke, to avenge our lord. As we are neither
night robbers nor ruffians, no hurt will be done to
the neighbouring houses. We pray you to set your
minds at rest." And as Kotsuke no Suke was
hated by his neighbours for his covetousness, they
did not unite their forces to assist him. Another
precaution was yet taken. Lest any of the people
inside should run out to call the relations of the
family to the rescue, and these coming in force
should interfere with the plans of the Ronins,
Kuranosuke stationed ten of his men armed with
bows on the roof of the four sides of the court-
yard, with orders to shoot any retainers who
might attempt to leave the place. Having thus
laid all his plans and posted his men, Kuranosuke
with his own hand beat the drum and gave the
signal for attack.
Ten of Kotsuke no Suke's retainers, hearing
the noise, woke up; and, drawing their swords,
rushed into the front room to defend their master.
At this moment the Ronins, who had burst open
the door of the front hall, entered the same room.