However, at that time, it was ordinary to have a powerful retainer play the role of the 'messenger,' in negotiations with powerful local clans under control or with lords of other provinces, and therefore, it is pointed out as well that it would not be correct to consider him simply as an orderly officer.
しかしながら、有力な支配下豪族や他国の領主との外交においては、有力家臣を「取り次ぎ役」することは当時としては一般的であり、単なる伝令とするのは事実誤認との指摘もある。