The Samurai's Tale

Kansuke warns Harutomo that some of their men may try to sell rice for alcohol or that samurai may bribe them for extra rice. He tells Harutomo to keep the men away from the warriors, inform him about anyone who is drunk, and kill any one of his men who steals rice. Harutomo wonders if he could do it, especially since he can hardly blame the impoverished porters for selling a small amount of the rice they carry. Kansuke senses his reluctance and says that if people steal and go unpunished, more will steal, the rice will be depleted, and he will have to answer to Akiyama. He says he chose Harutomo for his honesty, but now he worries he may be too sensitive. Four days later, an elderly porter tells Harutomo that some of his rice has been stolen. Harutomo keeps watch the next night but nearly falls asleep. The elderly peasant catches the thief, who turns out to be Denji, the only member of the supply train that Harutomo appointed personally. Feeling betrayed, Harutomo beats the young thief with a rope, orders him to carry a double portion of rice, and gives his job to the old man who caught him.