In July of the same year, he assumed Shiho-taifu (post as Ministry of Justice) while continuing as Army Major General, persuaded by Hirobumi ITO, and awarded for distinguished war service in Saga War at the same time.
同年7月、佐賀の乱鎮圧の戦功を賞され、一方で伊藤博文等の説得により、現役陸軍少将のまま司法大輔に就任。