Heiyemon monologue (Act 13) — Chushingura; Or, The Treasury of Loyal Retainers

I cannot imagine that these are Your Honour’s words. To me who received only three men’s rations and yourself with fifteen hundred _koku_, the life that keeps us in this world is the same, and there is no difference in our gratitude to our lord. But what we cannot disregard is the lineage. I know it is rude, it is impudent for a fellow of no worth like me to beg to be allowed to join gentlemen of rank who were qualified to act as our lord’s deputy. I should be like a monkey mimicking a man; but I will carry your sandals, your boxes, or anything, if only you will take me with you. I entreat you, sir; please, Your Honour, Your Honour. What, he appears to have fallen asleep.