great indeed was hase - hime 's fear and astonishment when her father sent for her and told her what was required of her . heavy , indeed , was the duty that was laid on her young shoulders - that of saving the emperor 's life by the merit of her verse . at last the day came and her poem was finished . it was written on a leaflet of paper heavily flecked with gold - dust . with her father and attendants and some of the court officials , she proceeded to the bank of the roaring torrent and raising up her heart to heaven , she read the poem she had composed , aloud , lifting it heavenwards in her two hands .
heavy was the duty that was laid on her young shoulders .
why was hase-hime afraid when she heard what was required of her ?
why was hase-hime afraid when she heard what was required of her ?