Folk Legends
Warashibe Choja
"This expensive cloth must be a gift from Kannon," Yosaku thought to himself as he continued on his way. Soon he came upon two samurai standing in the middle of the street. As he drew closer he saw that their horse, exhausted from the heat, was laying in the middle of the street. "What a useless horse!" exclaimed the samurai, who were at a loss as to what to do. Finally, Yosaku said to them, "Honorable samurai. If it would please you, how about exchanging your horse for this bundle of silk cloth?" The samurai, elated, said, "Great! Not only can we get rid of this horse, but you'll give us a bundle of silk as well!" The samurai took the cloth, left the horse, and went on their way. Yosaku turned to the horse and said gently, "You've been in pain, haven't you. Here, drink some water." He gave the animal plenty of water, and the horse was soon on its feet again.