 Book 3, Chapter 22 of With Fire and Sword. This is a LibriVox recording. All LibriVox recordings are in the public domain. For more information or to volunteer, please visit LibriVox.org. Recording by Piotr Nade. With Fire and Sword by Henrik Sienkevic, translated by Samuel A. Benyon, Book 3, Chapter 22. The Prince had, several days before this, actually written to Zamoshch to enlist new regiments. He was not expected to return just yet, so Volodyovsky, Zagloba and Drenjan set out in absolute silence, not betraying their secret to anyone. And of all those that remained in Sparash, Longin was the only one who knew it. But in accordance with his nightly word, he was silent as though bewitched. Vierchul and the other officers who knew of the death of the princess did not suspect that the journey of Zagloba and the little knight had anything to do with the betrothed of the unfortunate Skrtusky. But believed that the two friends were riding to visit him himself, especially as Zrenjan was with them and that they all knew that he was Skrtusky's servant. The friends went directly to Chlebanówka to make their preparations there for their journey. The first thing Zagloba did was to buy, with money that he had borrowed from Longin, five strong Padolyan horses fit to stand long journeys, such as were used by the Polish cavalry and the Cossack captains. Such a horse could chase a tartar pony the whole day long and was even more swift than the Turkish horses and was to be preferred to them on account of his greater endurance in changes of weather, cold nights and rain. So Zagloba bought five such steeds and, besides, he bought for himself his companions and also for the princess costly Cossack garments. Zrenjan visit himself with the horse's harness and as soon as everything was stopped off and in readiness they set out on their way, commanding their undertaking to God and St. Nicholas, the patron of virgins. Disguised as they were, they might easily have been taken for Cossack Atamans and it often occurred that they were stopped by soldiers from the Polish quarters and by the Polish watches until they got some distance beyond Kamianiec. But Zagloba soon set himself right with these. For some time they rode through a safe country, which was occupied by the regiments of Lanskoroński, who kept drawing nearer to bar, in order to keep his eye on the Cossack companies who were collecting there. It was already generally known that no negotiations would take place and war hung over the land, although the principal powers had not yet made a move. The truce of Pereslaw would not come to an end and with some tide. The skirmishes between the companies of scouts had never ceased and became daily more serious. Each side was only waiting for the battle cry. Meanwhile spring was advancing in the steps. The trampled and downtrodden earth was once more covered with the carpet of grass and blossoms, which had grown up from the bodies of the fallen knights. The larks soared in the air above the battlefields, flocks of birds mounted screaming into the clouds. The frozen waters once more gathered and formed a gleaming, scaly coat of mail beneath the warm breaths of the wind, and in the evening frogs splashed in the water and carried on their joyful dialogues until late at night. It seemed as though nature herself desired to heal the wounds, to still the sorrows, and to conceal with flowers the grave mounds of the war, light shone in heaven and on the earth. The whole steps, fresh, joyous and full of life, gleamed like a glorious picture and shimmered in all colors of the rainbow like a gold brocade, or like a wide, Polish girdle upon which all the colors have been embroidered in a harmonious relation to each other. The steps were joyous with the song of birds and a wide wave of warm air streamed across them, drying the moist places and browning the faces of men. At such a time every heart is full of joy and a boundless sense of confidence fills all breasts. It was thus with our knights who looked into the future with happy confidence. Volodyovsky sang incessantly. Zagvava stretched himself out on his horse and offered his back with full enjoyment to the warm rays of the sun, and when he was thoroughly warmed through, he said to the little knight, I feel so well for to tell the truth next to mead and Hungarian wine there is nothing better for all joints than the sun. It is good for everything answered Volodyovsky for even the animals love to warm themselves in the sun. It is fortunate that we are traveling just at this time to the princess, continued Zagvava, it would have been hard to travel with her in winter, in the frost. If we only once get her into our hands I am a rogue if she ever escapes me again. I must tell you, Pan Michael, said Zagvava, that I fear only one thing and that is that if the war should break out the Tartars would flood the country and attack us, but I do not fear the Cossacks. We shall not need to explain ourselves to the Cossacks for you have noticed, have you not, that they take us for leaders. The Zaporosians honor the safe conduct and Bohon's name is our protection. I know the Tartars for, among the gentlemen in Lubny, our life passed in incessant skirmishes with them, Vyershul and I never had any rest on account of them, said Pan Michael. I know them too, said Zagvava, I have told you before now, that I passed many years among them and might have attained rank and dignity in their midst, but as I did not wish to become a heathen, I had to throw over everything, for they were about to make me die the death of a martyr because I tried to convert their oldest priest to the only saving faith. You told us once, sir, that you were in Galatz. That is a matter by itself and also that I was in the Crimea, but if you think that the world ends with Galatz, you do not know where pepper grows. There are more sons of Belial than Christians in that country. Zhendian here joined the conversation. It is not only from the Tartars that we must apprehend danger, he said, I have not yet told the gentleman what the Bohon told me, that the Glen was guarded by frightful monsters. The giantess herself, who guards the princess is a witch, in compact with the devil, and who can tell if she may not receive the warning of her approach. I have a bullet, it is true, which I cast above some consecrated bread, which will break everything that strikes it, but she has, besides, whole regiments of ghosts and vampires guarding the entrance. The gentleman must vouch with their lives, that no evil shall happen to me, for otherwise I should lose my reward. You great dunce, said Zagwaba, as if we had nothing to do but to think of your life. The devil will not wring your neck, but if we should do so, it would not matter, for you would have deserved it by your avarice. I am too old a sparrow to be caught with chaff. And mark this, if Khorpina is a witch, I am a still more mighty wizard, for I learned the black art in Persia. She serves the devils, but the devils serve me. I can plow with them as with oxen if I wish to. But I have my soul's salvation to think of. That is right, gracious sir, but for this once, make use of your power, for it is always better to be on the safe side. And I, said Volodyovsky, have more confidence in our good cause and in God's protection. May the devils watch over Bohun and Khorpina, but with us are the heavenly hosts, whom the mightiest powers of hell cannot resist. For this occasion I will sacrifice seven candles of white wax to the holy archangel Michael. I will add one more, said Drenjan, so that Panzagwaba may not frighten me with the perdition. I will be the first to send you to hell, answered the nobleman, if it should prove that you do not know the exact spot. How should I not know it? As soon as we get to the Volodyanka, I can find the glen with my eyes blindfolded. We must ride along the bank towards the Dniester, and the glen is to our right. We shall recognize it because the entrance is blocked by a rock. At first sight it appears as though one could not enter, but there is a cleft in the rock through which two horses can ride a breast. If we once get there, no one can escape us, for it is the only exit from the glen, and all around are such high walls of rock that even a bird can scarcely fly over them. The witch kills people who try to enter the glen without permission. There are many skeletons there, but Bohun told me not to mind that, but to keep on riding, and calling Bohun Bohun. Then only will she receive us as friends. Besides Khorpina there is Ceremis, who is a good archer. We must kill them both. I agree with you as to Ceremis, but the woman, we will bind her. If the gracious gentleman could only do it, she is so strong that she tears a coat of armor as if it were a shirt and crushes a horse shoe in her hand. But Vipienta is the only one who might conquer her, but not we. Lead be, sir. I have a charmed bullet for her. May it bring the last hour to this devil woman. Otherwise she might follow us like a she-wolf, and howl till all the Cossacks awoke, and then we should not only be unable to save the young lady, but also our own heads. Amid such conversations and councils the journey passed, they hurried forward through towns, settlements, farms, and grave mounds. Their way led past Yarmolinsk towards Bar, where they first turned off in the direction of Yampor and towards the Dniester. They came through the region where Volodyovsky had once wounded Bohun and delivered Panzagwaba from his hands. They found the very same farmhouse and remained there overnight. Sometimes they had to take up their quarters for the night in the open air on the steps, and then Zagwaba would vary the monotony and the silence by relating his former adventures, some that he had really experienced, and others that had no existence. But the conversation turned chiefly on the princess, her imprisonment with the witch, and the rescue that was awaiting her. When they had finally left behind them the territory that was under the care of Lanskolinsky's soldiers, they came into the territory of the Cossacks in which not a single pole was left alive. Those who had not fled had been destroyed with fire and sword. May had come to an end, and it was now the warm month of June, but they had hardly travelled a third of their journey, for the road was long and full of difficulties. Fortunately they anticipated no danger from the Cossacks. They had no difficulty with the wandering bands who took them for Zaporozhian chiefs. Nevertheless they were asked who they were from time to time, and then Zagwaba, if the interrogator were a Nizhuf, would show Bohun's safe conduct. But if he were on ordinary black he did not dismount but kicked him in the chest with his foot so that he fell on the ground. The others who saw this at once gave a message, for they believed that they were not only friends but persons of high position since they beat them. Perhaps it is the Krivonos Burwai or even Chmielnitsky the little father himself, they would say. The only thing that annoyed Zagwaba was the fact of Bohun's fame, for the incestant questions about him were very tiresome, and also delayed them as they were usually detained some time while answering them. Would the questions never cease? Did he live? Was he well? For the news of his death had reached Yahorlik and beyond the rapids. And when the travelers answered that he was well and in freedom and that they were his messengers they were kissed and entertained hospitably. All hearts and even all purses were opened to them which Skratusky's cunning servant did not fail to turn to his own advantage. In Yampor Burwai received them. He had come here with his Nizh soldiers and the blacks to wait for the Bujak tartars. He was an old and famous commander who had instructed Bohun years before in military matters, had accompanied him in his expeditions to the Black Sea and together with him set fire to Sinope. He therefore loved him like a son and received his messengers without the slightest mistrust, especially as he had seen Rengian with him the previous year and when he learned that Bohun was alive and was going to Voenya he gave the messengers a feast to show his joy and got quite drunk. Zagwava feared that Rengian who was also slightly drunk might let out their secret, but the Foxy Young Rascal knew enough to tell the truth only when it was advisable without endangering their expedition and thus he gained their full confidence. The two knights were amused at this wonderful conversation of Rengian's, especially as during the whole time their names were continually repeated by him with a most obstinate rushness. We heard, said Burwai, that Bohun was wounded in a duel. Do you know who fought him? Volodyovsky, an officer of Prince Yeremi's, answered Rengian quietly. Oh, if he could only fall into my hands I would pay him out. For our Falcon I would flay him. Volodyovsky twitched his yellow mustache and looked at Burwai as a hound looks at a wolf at whose throat he did not spring. Rengian continued, that is just why I am telling you this name, Colnell. The devil will enjoy getting hold of that boy, thought Zagoba. But, continued Rengian, he is not so much to blame, for Bohun challenged him himself without knowing with whom he had to deal. There was another nobleman there, Bohun's greatest enemy, who had once already rescued the princess from his hands. And who was that? An old sod who attached himself to our Ataman in Tsehrin and pretended friendship for him. He will be hanged, cried Burwai. May I be called a fool if I do not cut off that fellow's ear? murmured Zagoba. They wounded him so, continued Rengian, that had it been anyone else the Kraus would long have inspected him. But our Ataman has a soul of steel, he will get well, although he could hardly drag himself to Vodava and would have been at his wits end if we had not arrived. We took him to Vawinia, where our men have to upper hand and he sent us alone to the lady. Those black-eyed wenches are his destruction, cried Burwai. I told him that long ago. Would it not have been better to have taken the girl in the Cossack fashion and then have tied a stone round her neck and throw her into the water, as we did at the Black Sea? Bohodovsky could hardly contain himself, so indignant was he at the insult to the fair sex. Zagoba, however, laughed and said, yes indeed it would have been better. But you are good friends of his, said Burwai. You did not forsake him in his need, and you, young fellow, turning to Rengian, you are the best of all, for I saw you in Chekhrin when you were nursing and watching their falcon. Well, I am your friend also. What do you wish, soldiers or horses? I will give them to you so that no accident may happen to you on your homeward journey. We have no need of Cossack's conel, said Zagoba, for we are riding as friends in a friendly land and may God preserve us from any accident. We can get along better alone than with a great number, but we should like some swift horses. I will give you some that cannot be overtaken by any of the cunts or upsteads. Rengian once more seized the favourable opportunity. The Ataman gave us very little money, as he had not much himself, and after we leave Bratswaf, oaths are worth a dollar a pack. Come with me to my room, said Burwai. Rengian did not need a second invitation and disappeared with the old conel behind the door. When he again made his appearance, his chubby face beamed with delight, and his gray coat was considerably puffed out around the waist. Now God be with you on your journey, said the old conel, and when you have got the girl, come and see me again, for I want to see Bakun's little bird. We cannot do that, conel, answered the boy boldly, for this little Polish lady is very timid, and actually tried to kill herself once with a knife. We fear that some harm may happen to her. Let the Ataman do as he pleases with her. He will, he will, she will not be afraid of him. She is a wide-handed pole, and the Cossack stinks in her nostrils, growled Burwai. Go, and God be with you, you have not much farther to travel. It was not far from Jampol to Vawadynka, but the road was difficult, or rather there was no road. The land stretched away endlessly before our riders, without any path, for in those days this region was yet a wilderness, only built up and settled in places. Therefore, on leaving Jampol, they turned westward, moving away from the Dniester in order to follow the river Vawadynka in its course to Raszków, for only in this way could they find the glen. Morning was breaking in the east, for Burwai's supper had lasted through quite late in the night, and Zagwaba calculated that they could not reach the glen before sunset. But that suited him, as after fleeing Helena, he wished to have denied before him. Meanwhile, the friends conversed as they rode, and rejoiced that fortune had favored them so far, and Pan Zagwaba, remembering the supper with Burwai, said, Just see how these Kosaks who belong to the brotherhood stand up for each other in all dangers. I am not speaking of the rabble, whom the Kosaks despise, and who, if the devil help them to get the upper hand, will make far worse masters, but of the brotherhood itself. One stands up for another, they are ready to go through the fire for one another, and do not act as the nobles do. Hey, what? Gracious sir, answered Drenjan, I was among them for some time, and saw how they devoured each other like wolves, and if it were not for Chmielnicki who keeps them in check, partly by his strong will, and partly by concessions, they would have utterly eaten up one another. But this Burwai is a great warrior among them, and Chmielnicki himself honors him highly. And you evidently seem to be in great favor with him, as he allows you to plunder him. Ah, Drenjan, Drenjan, you will come to a bad end. What is written cannot be avoided, gracious sir, is it not a praise where we act, and agreeable to God to lead your enemy into a trap? I am not blaming you for that, but for your avarice, this passion of the peasantry, which is quite unworthy of a nobleman, and on account of which you will be condemned. I do not grudge a candle to the church, if I succeed in earning something that the Lord God may make use of me, and may continue to bless me, and that I support my parents is surely no sin. What a rogue on four feet it is, cried Zagwaba, turning to Wodiovski. I thought that all cunning would go to the grave with me, but I see that he is a still greater rascal. Through his craftiness we shall free the princess from Bohun's imprisonment, with Bohun's own permission, and with Burwai's horses. Did you ever hear anything like it? And I wouldn't give three mites for him. Drenjan smiled contendably, and answered, are we any diwers of, gracious sir? I like you, and if you are not so avaricious, I should like to take you in my service, but as you hoodwinked Burwai, I will even forgive you for calling me a sought. I did not call you so gracious, sir, it was Bohun. God had punished him for it, answered Zagwaba. Thus chatting they passed the morning, but when the sun had reached the Meridian they became serious, for in a few hours they would see Valianka. After a long journey they were near their goal and an uneasiness natural on such occasions stole into their hearts. Was Helena yet alive? And if she were alive, would they find her in the ravine? Her Pina might have taken her away, or at the very last moment have hidden her in some unknown cleft in the rocks, or have killed her. The impediments were not all overcome, the dangers not all conquered, they had indeed credentials by which her Pina was to recognize them as Bohun's emissaries, but how would it be if she had been warned by devils or ghosts? Rengen was the most apprehensive of this, and even Panzagwaba feared it, and although he was so confident in his own knowledge of the black art, he could not think about it without uneasiness. If this were the case, they would find the ravine empty, or perhaps even worse, they might find the Cossacks from Laskuf in Ambush. Their hearts beat louder, and when after several hours' ride, from the raising ground at the border of the ravine they saw in the great distance a gleam of water like a silver ribbon, Rengen's chubby face grew somewhat pale. That is Valadyanka, he said in a harsh voice. Already, asked Zagwaba in an equally muffled voice, how near it is. May God protect us, answered Rengen, my gracious sir, begin your incantations at once, for I am dreadfully frightened. Incantations are foolishness, we will bless the river with the cells that will be of better help. Valadyavsky was the least disturbed, but he was silent. He only looked carefully at his pistols, loaded them with fresh powder, and saw that his sword could be unsheathed without difficulty. I have a consecrated bullet here in this pistol, said Rengen, in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost. Forward, forward! Before long they found themselves on the bank of the little river heads in the direction of this course. Valadyavsky stopped a moment and said, Let Rengen take the safe conduct, for the witch knows him, and he can talk to her first, so that she will not be afraid when she sees us, and go and hide herself with the princess to some cleft in the rocks. I will not go first, no matter what you say, gentlemen, said Rengen. Well then, ride in the rare you blockhead. Then Valadyavsky rode forward, followed by Zagwaba, Rengen with the extra horses bringing up the rare, and looking anxiously about him on all sides. The horses' hooves clattered on the stones. The stillness of a desert reigned in this place, which was only broken by the chirping of crickets and grasshoppers who were hidden in the rocks, for the day was warm, although the sun was already long past the meridian. The horsemen had finally reached around elevation which looked like a night's shield turned over, upon which broken rocks, weather beaten by the sun and air, were scattered like ruins of houses and church towers. It looked as though it was the ruins of a nobleman's castle or a town that had been but yesterday destroyed by the enemy. Rengen looked at it and drove up to Zagwaba. That is the boundary line, said he. I recognize it by what Bohun told me of it. No one who crosses this at night survives to tell the tale. If one cannot pass it by, perhaps one can pace across it, answered Zagwaba. Bah, this is a strange, accursed land, but at least we are on the right road. It is not much farther, said Rengen. God be praised, answered Zagwaba, and his thoughts turned to the princess. His courage revived wonderfully at the sight of the wild banks of the Wadianka, of this desert and its silence. It seemed incredible that the princess should be so near. She, for whom he had undertaken so many adventures and passed through so many dangers, she whom he so loved that, when the news of her death came to him, he no longer knew how he should live out the rest of his days. But on the other hand one becomes habituated even to misfortune. Zagwaba had so long been filled with the conviction that she had been stolen and was far away in Bohun's power, that now he hardly dared to say, behold, now sadness and searching have come to an end. The time of peace and happiness is here. But other questions forced themselves upon him. What would she say when she saw him? For this rescue from such a long and weariness imprisonment would surprise her like a flash of lightning. God's ways are wonderful, thought Zagwaba. He understands how to direct everything so that virtue shall conquer and injustice shall be put to shame. It was God who first sent Gengian into Bohun's hands and then made him his friend. It was God who directed that the cruel mother, war, should call the wild that a man from this desert were like a wolf he had carried his prey. God who later gave him into Vordyotsky's hands and led Gengian to him once more. And so he has so directed everything that now, when Helena is perhaps giving up her last ray of hope and no longer expects assistance at this very time rescue is at hand. Night years will cease to flow my little daughter, thought Zagwaba, and soon thou wilt be overcome with joy and oh how thankful she will be, how she will fold her little hands and be thankful. Here Zagwaba saw the girl in his mind's eye and he was filled with emotion and became buried in thought about what was to happen in the next hour. Gengian pulled his sleeve from behind. Gracious sir, what is the matter? asked Zagwaba, annoyed that the thread had been broken. Did you not see sir? What, was it only a wolf? Kiss him on the nose. At this moment Vordyotsky reigned in his horse. Have we not missed the road? He asked, it ought to be here. No, un-said Gengian, we will ride, as Bakun said. I wish to God it were all over. If we are on the right road it will soon be over. I want to ask the gentleman to look at Tremies. When they are talking to the witch he is creature, but he can shoot splendidly. Do not be afraid, go forward. They had not ridden many paces when the horses began to snort and to lay back their ears. Gengian grew as cold as a lizard for he expected at every moment to hear the howling of a vampire from the clefts in the rocks or to see some fearful form start up before him, but it turned out presently that the horses were only snorting where the wolves stood, who had frightened the boy a few moments before. The air was perfectly still, not even the crickets chirped and the sun had almost set. Gengian crossed himself and became calm. Suddenly Voliovsky pulled in his horse. I see a glen. Its entrance is hidden by a rock and there is a breach in the rock. In the name of the Father, the Son and the Holy Ghost, there it is, whispered Gengian. Cryed by Michael, turning his horse. Before long, they stood at the breach in the rock and drove through it as into a stone vault. A deep glen lay open before them, the sides of which were thickly overgrown and spread out in the distance into a wide semi-circular level surrounded by gigantic walls of rock. Gengian began to cry at the top of his voice Bohun! Bohun! Come here, witch, come! Bohun! Bohun! Bohun! They stopped their horses and waited in silence. Presently the boy called again Bohun! Bohun! The barking of dogs was heard in the distance. Bohun! Bohun! On the left of the glen on which the red beams of the setting sun were falling there was a rustling in the thick bushes of wild plum and hawthorn and following upon it appeared at the extreme summit of the precipice a human form which, bending over with her hand screening her eyes was looking attentively at the new arrivals. That is Horpina, said Gengian, and placing his hand to his mouth he cried again Bohun! Bohun! Horpina began to descend bending her body backwards to preserve her equilibrium. She came down rapidly and behind her came plunging a little undersized man with a long Turkish gun in his hand. He was dragged under the heavy feet of the witch. The stones rolled, chattering to the bottom of the glen and in the red evening sunlight with her body bent backwards she looked like a gigantic, unearthly being. Who are you? She said in a loud voice when she reached the bottom. How are you, lass? said Gengian, who at the sight of the beings who were not ghosts had regained his self-possession. You are one of Bohun's servants. I recognize you, you little fellow and those over there. Who are they? Bohun's friends. A pretty witch, murmured Pan Michael to himself. And why have you come here? Here are the safe conduct, the knife and the ring. Do you know what that signifies? The giantess took the tokens in her hand and looked at them closely. Then she said, they are the same. You want the princess? We do. Is she well? She is well. Why did not Bohun come himself? Bohun is wounded. Wounded? I saw it in the mill. If you saw it, why do you ask? You lie, girl. said Gengian with confidence. The witch laughed and showed her white wolf's teeth and clenching her fist she gave Gengian a dig in the ribs. You little fellow you. Be off with you. Will you not kiss me? And when do you want me to take the princess? Immediately, but we must rest the horses. Well, take her. I will go with you. And why do you want to go? My brother is destined to die. He is going to be impaled by the Poles. I will go with you. Gengian bent over in his saddle as though he would converse more privately with the giantess, while his hand unobserved sobbed the butt of the pistol. Cherenys, Cherenys! he said in order to direct the attention of his companions to the dwarf. Why do you call him? His tongue has been cut out. I am not calling him. I am only astonished at his beauty. You would not leave him. He is your husband. He is my dog. There are only two of you in the glen. Only two and the princess. That is well. You will not go with us. But I will go, I say. And I say you will stay here. In the boy's tone there was something so peculiar that the giantess became uneasy and turned round. She had become mistrustful. What do you want? She said. That is what I want. Answered Gengian firing his pistol at her breast, and she was so close that the smoke enveloped them both in a moment. Horpina stepped back without stretched arms. Her eyes started from their sockets and unearthly cry escaped from her throat. She staggered and fell backwards, her whole length on the ground. At the same moment, Zagwaba gave Ceremis a blow with his sword so that the skull cracked under the blade. The monstrous dwarf uttered not a sound, but rolled himself together like a worm, twitching and opening and shutting his hands alternately like the claws of a dying lynx. Zagwaba wiped his reeking sword with the sleeve of his coat. Gengian sprang from his horse, seized a huge stone and threw it upon Horpina's broad chest, and then began to look for something in his breast pocket. The gigantic form of the witch was still striking the earth with its feet. Her face twitched convulsively. The white teeth were covered with a bloody foam, and from her throat came a muffled gurgle. Meanwhile, the boy pulled out a piece of consecrated chalk and, with it, traced the sign of the cross on the stone and said now she will never get up again. Then he sprang into the saddle. Forward, commanded Volodyovsky, they flew along the brook like a whirlwind, and came to a halt in the middle of the glen. They passed several scattered oaks, and presently there appeared before their eyes a cabin and a tall mill, whose dripping will glistened like a red star in the rays of the sun. Two huge black dogs were fastened by ropes outside the cabin. They tried to spring at the newcomers, and tugged at their ropes with hulls of rage. Volodyovsky was ahead and arrived first. He sprang to the ground, and stepping to the door of the house opened it, and entered the hall, his sword cluttering at his side. At the right of the hall could be seen an open door leading into a large room with a fireplace in the middle, filled with chips of wood and smoking fiercely. The door at the left was closed. She must be in there, thought by Michael, springing to open it. He shook the door, opened it, was about to dash in the room, but remained on the threshold as if petrified. At the farther end of the room, with her hand upon the head of her couch stood Helena Kurcevich, pale with her hair falling over her shoulders. Her terrified eyes turned towards Volodyovsky, seemed to ask who art thou? What does thou want here? For she had never seen the little knight. He, however, stood in bewilderment at the sight of such beauty, and of this room furnished with velvet and gold a bouquet. Presently he recovered himself and spoke haste to he. Fear nothing, princess, we are friends of Kretusky. The princess sang upon her knees. Save me! she cried, clasping her hands, but at that moment Zagweba plunged into the room, red, trembling and punting. It is we, he cried, we and we are bringing assistance. When the princess heard these words and saw that well-known face she bent like a cut of flour, her hands fell, and her lids closed over her eyes. She had fainted. End of Book 3, Chapter 22 Book 4, Chapter 1, Part 1 of With Fire and Sword This is a LibriVox recording. All LibriVox recordings are in the public domain. For more information or to volunteer, please visit LibriVox.org Recording by Piotr Natar With Fire and Sword by Henrik Sienkevich, translated by Samuel Binyon, Book 4, Chapter 1, Part 1 The horses had hardly been allowed to rest, but still they flew onward with such speed that when the moon had risen over the steps, the party had reached the vicinity of Studienka on the other side of the Vohadianka. At the head wrote Panvolodiyovsky, looking carefully about him in all directions. Behind was Zagweba, beside Helena, and at the end of the train Renjan, leading the horses of burden and two reserve horses which he had not forgotten to take from the stable of Horpina. Zagweba did not give his tongue a minute's rest. He had indeed many things to tell the princess, who, having been secluded in the wild ravine, knew nothing of what was going on in the world. He told her how a friend had searched for her from the beginning, how Skretusky had gone to Paraisov in order to look for L'Bohun, not knowing of his defeat, and how finally Renjan succeeded in worming the secret of her hiding place from the Ataman, and had brought this sign to Zbarash. Merciful God, said Helena, turning her beautiful pale face towards the moon, so Pan Skretusky has followed my traces beyond the Tnipr. As far as Paraisov I repeat, and surely he would have come hither with us had we had time to send words to him, but we wanted to hurry to your aid without delay. He knows nothing of your rescue yet, and prays daily for your safety, but he needs no pity, let him suffer a while longer in as much as such reward awaits him. And I thought I was forgotten by all and prayed to God to let me die. We had not only not forgotten you, but were all the time planning how we might rescue you and come to your aid. It was only natural that Skretusky and myself should have given serious attention to the matter, but this knight too, who rides before us with an equal self-sacrifice spared neither care nor trouble nor toil. May God reward him for it. Both of you evidently possess something that attracts men to you, but to Volodiyovsky you are really indebted, for as I have said we together cut up Bohun like a pike. Pan Skretusky in Roswoga spoke upon Volodiyovsky as his best friend, he said and he was right. There abides a great soul in that little body, just at present he is somewhat shy, for your beauty has evidently dazzled him, but when he gets over it he will come to himself. We together did great work at the election of the king. So there is already a new king? So you have not even heard of this, poor soul, in that cursed desert why John Casimir was elected last fall and has been reigning now for eight months. A great war has broken out with the rebels and God help us, for Prince Yeremi was forced to resign and in his stead others were chosen, who were fitted better for feasts than for war. And will Pan Skretusky also go to this war? He is a good soldier and I doubt if even you can keep him back from it. We are alike in this respect, as soon as we smell powder, no power on earth can hold us back. Oh, last year we made ourselves felt by the mob. The whole night would not suffice for me to tell you all that happened. Of course we shall go to the war, but the main thing is that we have found you, poor child, without whom life for us was a burden. The princess turned her sweet face to Pan Zagoba. I do not know why you love me so much, sir, but you cannot love me more than I love you. Zagoba sighed deeply with content. Do you really love me so much? As I live, I do. God reward you, for this will lighten the burden of my old age. It is an everyday matter for me to attract the attention of women. This was the case during the election in Warsaw. Wołodowski is a witness, but what care I any longer for the love of women, despite the warmth of my heart, I will content myself with fatherly feelings alone. Silence followed. Then the horses snorted one after another, which was a good omen. Good luck! Good luck! exclaimed the horsemen. The night was clear. The moon ascended higher and higher in the sky, richly set with stars which grew smaller and paler. The tired horses slackened up and the riders themselves began to grow wary. Wołodowski was the first to rein in his horse. It's about time to rest, said he. It will soon be dawn. Yes, it's time, repeated Zagłoba. I'm so tired that I see two heads on my horse. But before they lay down to sleep, Ręgian prepared supper. He made a fire and, taking off the saddle-bags from the horse, he got out the supplies which he had purchased in Jampol near Burłaj. There was cornbread, cold meat, delicacies, and Wallachian wine. At the side of the two leather bottles which were filled with beverage and gave out splashing and pleasant sound, Zagłoba forgot all about sleep and the others also fell too and ate with a good will. There was plenty for all, and when they were satisfied, Zagłoba wiped his mouth with his coat sleeve and said, till life ends, I shall never cease to repeat, God's ways are marvelous. See, my dear lady, you are free and we are sitting here joyfully under God's sky, drinking Burłaj's wine. I will not deny that Hungarian wine would be better for this smells of leather, but on the journey it is good enough. I cannot get over wondering at one thing, said Helena, and that is that her pina gave me up so easily to you. Zagłoba looked at Wołodiowski and Adrenjan and winked at them. She consented because she had to. Anyway why should we conceal it, for it is no shame that we killed her together with Czaremis. What, asked the princess frightened, did you hear the shot? I heard, but I thought Czaremis was shooting. It was not Czaremis, but this youth here who shot the witch through and through. The devil is in him, that is sure, but we could not do otherwise, for whether on account of a whim, or whether she devines something, the witch wished to ride with us in any event. We could not allow this, for she would have soon noticed that we were not riding to Kiev. So he shot her then, and I made way with her. He was indeed an African monster, and I do not think that God will count it against me. Even in hell he must arouse general disgust. Shortly before our departure from the retreat, I rode ahead and drew the bodies somewhat aside, so that the side of the corpses might not frighten you, or that you might not think it is an evil omen. Then the princess said, in these terrible times I have seen too many persons who are near to me slain to become frightened at the side of corpses. Still, I should have preferred if no blood had been shed, lest God might punish us. Nor was it a chivalrous act, curtly remarked Vodyovsky, I would not soil my hands with it. What's the use of thinking over the matter now, said Renjan? It couldn't be otherwise. Had we killed a good man, I would not have a word to say, but to kill enemies of God is allowable. Had I not seen myself that the witch was in a league with devils, I do not regret that matter at all. And what does Panjan regret, asked the princess, that there is money hidden in the ground of which Bohun told me, but because the gentleman compelled us to hurry, I had no time to dig it up, although I knew the spot by the mill accurately. It also broke my heart that we had to leave behind us so many precious things in the place where your ladyship dwelled. Behold, the kind of a servant you are getting, said Zagoba to the princess, with the exception of his master, he would tear the skin from anyone from the devil himself to make a collar of it. If it please God, Renjan will have no reason to complain of my ungratefulness, answered Helena. I thank you, Grace, very humbly, said the lad, kissing her hand. Meanwhile, Vodyovsky said silent, drinking wine from the leathern bottle, with his brow contracted in a frown, until his unusual silence drew Zagoba's attention to him. And Pan Michael, said he, hardly utteres a word. And turning to the princess, he added, did I not tell you that your beauty has paralyzed his tongue and his intellect? You had better get some sleep before daybreak, replied the night much confused and twisting his little moustache to the point. But the old nobleman was right, the extraordinary beauty of the princess had stunned and entranced the night. He looked at her again and again, and asked himself is it possible that such a being live upon this earth? Doubtless he had seen many beauties in his life, the Pannas Anna and Barbaras Baraska were beautiful. Anna Borzobohata's beauty defied all description. Panna Zhukovna, to whom Pan Rostforovsky was paying attention, was charming also, and Panna Wierszła Skoropatska and Panna Bohovitynyanka, but none could compare with this beautiful wild flower of the steppes. In the presence of the others, Pan Bohovityovsky was always lively and talkative, but now, when he glanced at those sweet, half-veiled, velvet eyes, the silky lashes of which drooped on her rosy cheeks, when he beheld her luxuriant hair that spread like a hyacinth over her arms and shoulders, her slender figure, her beautifully rounded bosom, which lightly rose and sank as she breathed, exhaling warm love. And when he looked on her lily and rose-white complexion and the roses on her cheeks and on her red lips, then Pan Bohovityovsky completely lost his speech and, worst of all, he appeared to himself so clumsy, stupid and diminutive as to appear ridiculous. She is a princess and I am but a schoolboy, thought he with bitterness, and he longed for an adventure, possibly with a giant who might emerge from darkness. Then, poor Pan Michael would show that he was not as small as he appeared. He was also put out because Zagoba evidently delighted that his fair daughter was the object of so much attention gave vent to many knowing wings and nods, and joked him not a little. Meanwhile, she said before the fire, the white moon and the red flames cast their light upon her. She sat still and quiet, looking more and more beautiful. Admit Pan Michael, said Zagoba, the next morning, when they were alone for a moment, that there is not such another girl throughout the entire commonwealth. If you can show me such another, you can call me a fool and demented besides. I don't deny it, said little knight, she stands alone and I have never seen her like before. Even those marble statues of the goddesses in the palace of Pan Nakazhanovsky, which, though cut from marble seemed to be alive, cannot compare with her. I am not surprised that the bravest men risked their lives on her account for she is worth it. What, as God is my judge, said Zagoba, one does not know whether she is more beautiful in the morning or in the evening, for she seems ever as fresh as a rose. I told you that I once was also wonderfully handsome, but even in those days I should have been obliged to bow to her, although many say that she resembles me as one goblet does another. Oh, go to the devil, exclaimed the little knight. Do not treat me with sub-scorn, Pan Michael, for you frown like Mars already, you gaze at her like a goat at a cabbage and pucker your brow, one would swear that desire stormed you, but the sausage is not for the dog. Fie, exclaimed Wodlowski, as an old man you are not ashamed to talk such nonsense. Why do you look so downcast? Because you believe that all dangers is behind us, that we are in safety and that evil has flown like a bird in the air, but we must consider how we can avoid the one and overcome the other. The way that lies before us is full of danger, God knows what is awaiting us, for the region into which we go is surely now in flames. When I abducted her from Bohun in Roswoga it was worse because pursuit was behind us and revolution before us, nevertheless we traversed the entire Ukraine, crossing an ocean of flames to Bar. What is the use of the heads upon our shoulders? If it comes to the worst, we are not far from Kamjenets. Yes, but the Turks and Tartars are not far from there either. What are you telling me? I only speak the truth and that is worth while thinking about. It would be better to skirt around Kamjenets and go directly to Bar, for the Cossacks respect a safe conduct and we could easily get through the blacks, but should a single Tartar get side of us, we are lost. I know there tricks by a long experience and understand how to steal around a Tartar camp like a wolf or a bird, but should we chance upon one, now without warning, I should be at a loss what to do. Well then, let us go to the Bar or around it, and may a pest destroy the Lipkovs and Ceremys of Kamjenets. You evidently do not know that Rengen received a safe conduct from Burwai. We can roam about among the Cossacks singing. We have left the worst desert behind us. We are coming now into an inhabited land. We must take care that we always stop at some farm before nightfall, for this will be safer and more comfortable for the lady. It seems to me, Pan Michael, that you look at things too darkly. By Jove, it were a strange thing if three fellows like ourselves without flattering myself or you could not take care of ourselves in the steps. We shall combine our wits with your sabre and Haida onward. We can do nothing better. Rengen has his safe conduct from Burwai. That's the main thing, for Burwai rules the whole of Podolia, and once we have bar behind us, we shall find Lanskolonsky's troops. Haida, come on, Pan Michael, let us lose no time. They hurried onward towards the west, as fast as the horses could go. On the heights of Mochilov they reached inhabited land, so that it was no longer difficult for them to find a farm or village where they could spend the night. But with the dawn they were always on their horses and on the way. Fortunately the summer was dry, the days were warm, and the nights dewy and in the mornings the step glistened like silver frost. The winds had dried the ponds, the rivers were shallow, and could be forwarded without difficulty. After they had gone for some distance along the Wozowa, they stopped for a more protracted rest in Sharagrut, where a division of Burwai's Cossacks was encamped. Here they made delegates of Burwai and among them, Captain Setnik Kuna, whom they had seen in Jampol at the feast given by Burwai. The captain Setnik was somewhat surprised that they did not pass through Bratswaf, Raigrut, Skvira, to Kiev, but no suspicion entered his mind, especially as Zagwaba explained to him that they had not taken that course through fear of the Cossacks, having heard that the latter was marching up from the Dniper. Kuna told them in reply that Burwai had sent him to the regiment to announce the campaign and that he himself, with all the Jampol and Bujak Tartars would come to Sharagrut and push on from there. Special messengers had come to Burwai from Chmielnitsky with the news that war was declared and with orders to lead all the squadrons to Vovinia. Burwai himself had intended long ago to go to Bar and only waited for the Tartars to join him, for at Bar things were going badly for the rebels. Panlanskoynsky had defeated a considerable body then and had captured the city and occupied the castle. Several thousand Cossacks had fallen and these the old Burwai wished to revenge, or at least to retake the castle. Kuna said however that the latest orders from Chmielnitsky to proceed onward to Vovinia had prevented this action and that Bar would not be besieged unless the Tartars insisted upon it at all hazards. Now Panmichael said Zagwaba the next day Bar lies before us and I could for a second time find the princess a safe retreat there but the deuce take that place. I trust neither Bar nor any other fortress since the rebels have more cannon than the army of the crown. What disturbs me is that a storm is threatening all about us. It is not only threatening but it is breaking right at our heels in the shape of the Tartars. If they should overtake us they would not be a little surprised that instead of going to Kiev we should be going in an opposite direction. And Burwai would be ready to show us another way. May the devil show him first the way which leads directly to hell. Let us make a contract. I will engage to get through these rascals but when we come among the Tartars there you must use your wits. It is a simple matter to deal with this mob as they take us for their own. But as regards the Tartars my advice is to flee from them as fast as possible so that we may escape their toils. Our horses are good but wherever an opportunity offers we must buy new ones on the way in order to have a fresh relay. Long in spurs will probably pay our way but should it not, Renjan must lend us burlays. And now onward. And they rushed onward still faster until the foam covered the flanks of the horses and fell like snow on the green step. They passed through Derwa and Wodawa. Wołodowski bought fresh horses in Bark but the old ones were not left behind for those that Burwai had presented to them were thoroughbreds and therefore they kept them as reserves. Shorter and shorter became their pauses for rest and fewer their stops in sheltered places. They all enjoyed fine health and although Helena was fatigued by the journey still she gained strength day by day. In the ravine she had led a secluded life and had rarely left her gilded cage for fear of meeting the shameless herpena and being compelled to listen to her talk. Now the fresh air of the steppe restored her health her cheeks became rosy the sun tanned her face and her eyes gained fresh fire. Often when the winds curled her hair on her forehead one might have taken her for a gypsy or a wonderful witch or have thought that the gypsy queen was prancing across the wide steppe with flowers pringing up before her and an escort of knights behind. Panwołodowski gradually became accustomed to her wonderful beauty. The journey had brought them closer to each other and he became himself again. He regained his former gaiety and spirits and his speech and as he rode by her side he told her many things about Włubni and especially about his friendship with Skretuski for he noticed that she liked to listen to talk about him. Sometimes he teased her saying I am Bohun's friend and I'll take you to him, princess. Then she would clasp her hands as if in great fear and besiege him with soft words. Do not do so dear knight, rather kill me on the spot. That I would not do, I cannot do that answered the little knight sternly. Kill me, repeated the princess closing her eyes and extending her neck. Then a strange flash overcame the knight. He felt as if the ants were crawling all over him. This girl mounts to one's head like a wine. He said to himself but they shall not get intoxicated for the wine belongs to another. And Pan Michael shook himself and galloped away and when he had plunged into the tall grasses of the steppe, like a seamew into water, the ants departed and he turned all his attention to the way they were going, looking carefully to see that they were on the right track and that no danger was threatening them from any quarter. He stood up in his stirrups and his little moustache rose above the waving grass as he looked all around listening and sniffing like a tartar and panting in the wild lands. Pan Zagwaba was also in the best of spirits. Our flight is easier now, said he then formerly on the Kahamelik when we had to run along on foot panting like dogs with the tongs hanging out. My tong was so dried that I could saw wood with it and now thank God we can rest at night and also have something to lubricate our throat with from time to time. Do you remember, sir, how you bore me across the water? Asked Helena. If it pleases God, you will also see the day when you will carry something in your arms. Skretuski will see to that. Ha ha, loved Rengen. Say no more, I pray you. Whispered the princess blushing and with downcast eyes. Thus they diverted themselves on the step as well as they could to pass the time. Finally, beyond the park and Jotushka they entered a region which showed war. Until recently bands of rebels had come to there and there Lanskoroński had defeated them and left everything in ruins behind him. For he had retired only a few days previously to Zbarasz. Our party learned also from the villagers that Chmielnicki together with the Khan and his entire forces had moved against the Poles, or rather against the commanders, whose troops had mutinied and who refused to serve except under Wichniewiecki. Besides, there was a general feeling that if Chmielnicki and Jeremi should meet, either the Poles or the Cossacks would be wiped out. Meanwhile, the whole country rose up in arms and everyone seized their weapons and marched off to the north to join Chmielnicki. From the low lands of the Dniester and from Nisz Burwaj was advancing with all his forces and drawing to himself regiments. From their winter quarters and garrisons from the towns for the order to mobilize had gone forth everywhere. So they marched in divisions of hundreds and squadrons and regiments and following them streamed disorderly blacks armed with flails, pitchforks, knives and spears. Horse herders and cattle drivers threw away their cives. Farmers deserted their lands, beekeepers their bees, the wild fishermen their banks on the Dniester and the hunters their forests. Hamlets, villages and towns were deserted. In three provinces there remained only the old women and children for the maidens had marched out with the men against the Poles. At the same time from the east like a threatening storm came the forces of Chmielnicki who with powerful hand destroyed places and castles on his way killing all whom former contest had spared. When the party had left Bar with all its sad memories for the princes behind them they took the old highway that led through Atitruv and Poskirov to Tarnopol and onwards to Lemberg. Here they often encountered big trains of wagons, divisions of infantry and of Cossack cavalry, bands of peasants and enormous heads of oxen which stirred up great clouds of dust as they were driven along to make provisions for the Cossacks and Tartar soldiery. Now their journey became dangerous for they were continually questioned as to who they were, whence they came and whither they were going. To the Cossack regiments Zagloba showed his safe conduct from Burwai and said, we are messengers from Burwai and we are taking the maid to Bohun. CHAPTER I. PART II At the site of the safe conduct of the dreaded Colonel the swarm of Cossacks which surrounded them would fall back for they thought that if Bohun was alive he must be already near the main army about Zabarysh or Konstantinov but the party had still more trouble with the blacks and wild bands of drunken and ignorant herdsmen who had no idea of the meaning of the safe conduct issued by the Colonel. Had it not been for Helena, Zagloba, Volodievsky and Genzdian would have been taken by these half savage tribes for their own kind as sometimes actually happened but Helena attracted the attention of all on account of her sex and her beauty and therefore there arose dangers which they could only avoid by taking the greatest precaution. Sometimes Zagloba showed the safe conduct, sometimes Volodievsky showed his teeth and in many a corpse they left behind them. At times they were saved from disaster only by the great speed of Berlai's racers and the journey which at the outset had begun so favorably became more difficult day by day. Helena, who, though brave by nature, felt the strain of sleepless nights and of continuous alarm, now began to fail in health. She looked like a captive who was dragged unwillingly into the camps of the enemy. Zagloba continually formed new plans which Volodievsky carried out and both of them consoled the princess as well as they could. We must leave the swarms of ants behind which now confront us and reach Zabarge, said the little knight. Here Kemelnitsky, with the Tartars, floods the whole region amount. They had learned on the way that the commanders had assembled at Zabarge and intended to hold the town. They had gathered there expecting that Prince Yeremi would join them with his division as a considerable portion of his forces were quartered in Zabarge. Now our party drew near to Plaskarov. The swarms on the high roads began to grow thinner. For about ten miles away the country was occupied by royal forces. The Cossack bands did not dare to advance further. They preferred to wait at a safe distance for the arrival of Berle on one side and of Kemelnitsky from the other. But ten more miles, but ten more miles, repeated Zagloba, rubbing his hands. If we can only reach the first squadrons we surely will get safely to Zabarge. Panvolodievsky, however, decided to provide new horses at Plaskarov. For those they had purchased in Bark were no longer any good, and those which Berle had given them had to be spared for a dark hour. This precaution was necessary for rumors were afloat that Kemelnitsky was already near Konstantinov and that the Khan was approaching with all his horses from Piljevitz. It is best for us to remain with the princess from the town and not to show ourselves, said the little knight to Zagloba, when they arrived at a small deserted cottage about two furlongs from the town. But you go to the villagers and see if they have any horses for sale or exchange. It is evening already, but we must remain in the saddle all night. I'll be back soon," said Zagloba. He rode onward to the town. Volodievsky then ordered Genzien to loosen the saddle girths so as to give the horses a chance to rest. Zagloba took the princess into the house and bathed her to refresh herself with wine and sleep. I would like to have those ten miles behind us by daybreak," he said to her. Then we can all rest. No sooner had he brought the wine and some provisions, then the sound of the horses' hooves was heard at the door. The little knight looked out the window. Zagloba is back already," said he. He surely has found no horses. At that moment the door opened and he was firing and breathless. Mount your horses," he cried. Pan Michael was too experienced a soldier to lose time in asking questions. He did not even take time to snatch up the wine bag. This, however, Zagloba grasped, but immediately led the princess into the yard and helped her into her saddle and casting a glance at the saddle girths to see if they were tight, he cried. Mount your horses. There was a sound of clattering hooves and horsemen and horses vanished in the darkness like a dream cavalcade. Zagloba had no idea about resting, but not till about a mile separated them from Plaskarov and the darkness had grown so dense that the pursuit was impossible. Did Volo Deovsky approach Zagloba and ask, What was it? Wait, Pan Michael, wait. I am dreadfully out of breath. My legs were nearly paralyzed. Ugh! But what was it? The devil himself, I tell you, the devil himself, speaks plainly, I beg of you. I saw Bohun in the marketplace. Are you delirious? I saw him in the marketplace as true as I live and five or six people with him. I did not count them. I could hardly stand on my feet. They held torchlights for him. Me thinks an evil spirit is working against us. I have lost all faith in the success of our enterprise. Is that devil immortal or what? Don't speak to Helena about it, for God's sake. You killed him? Genzian gave him up? No. And still he lives, is free, and crosses our path again. Ugh! I tell you, Pan Michael, that I would rather see a ghost in a churchyard than him. What in the devil kind of fortune have I to always be the first one to see him everywhere? To the dogs with such luck. Are there no other people in the world who can see me? There's no always me and only me. And did he see you? If he had seen me, you, Pan Michael, would never see me again. That was the only thing wanting. It would be well to know, said Volodyevsky, if he is in pursuit of us or if he is going to Valedinka to Horpina with the intention of catching us on the way. It seems to me that he is going to Valedinka. That is probably the case. Then we shall ride in one direction, he in another, and if now one or two miles were between us, there will be five in an hour from now. Before he learns about us on the road and turns back, we shall not be only in Zabarysh, but in Djolkov. Do you think so, Pan Michael? Thank God. You relieve my mind greatly. But tell me, how is it possible that he has regained his freedom since Genzian gave him up to the commander in Vlodava? He simply escaped. Oh! The commander deserves to have his head chopped off. Genzian, hey! Genzian! What do you want? said the lad, reigning in his horse. To whom did you give Bohun up? To Pan Rogovsky. And who is this Pan Rogovsky? A fine gentleman, a lieutenant of the Curacias, of his majesty the king. You go to, said Volodyevsky, snapping his fingers. Now, tea between Skets Tutsky and Rogovsky. He is a relative of Pan Lash, and H. Skets Tutsky on his account. I see, I see, cried Zagloba. He liberated Bohun out of spite, but this is a criminal offence whose penalty is the gallows. I shall be the first to report it. If God should let me meet him once we shall hardly need to go before a tribunal. Genzian did not understand what the trouble was, for after answering Zagloba's question he rode forward again beside the princess. They had now slackened their pace, the moon had risen, the fog which since the evening had enveloped the earth now lifted, and the night became clear. Volodyevsky became engrossed in thought. Zagloba was still thinking of his terrible experience. Finally he said, How would Bohun have repaid Genzian if he had fallen into his hands? Tell him the news. Let him have a taste of the fright. Meanwhile I will ride with the princess, answered the little knight. All right, here. Genzian. What's the matter?" asked the lad, checking the horse again. Zagloba remained silent for a while until Volodyevsky and the princess had gotten enough ahead not to overhear it. Then he said, Do you know what happened? I don't know. Penrugovsky set Bohun free. I saw him in Plaskorov. What? In Plaskorov just now? asked Genzian. Why don't you fall out of your saddle? The moonlight illumined the lads to be faced, but Zagloba could discover upon it no trace of fright. But he saw with astonishment that it had the same expression of almost brutal rage which he had already noticed when Genzian killed Horpina. Don't you fear Bohun, then? queried the old noble. My lord! answered the lad. If Rygovsky has set him free I must try to revenge myself for the insult and ignominy he heaped upon me. I shall not spare him for I have sworn vengeance upon him and were we not escorting the princess now I would instantly follow his tracks that I might redeem my oath. I intend to keep it. Well, thought Zagloba, I am glad that I have done no injury to this lad. Then he put spurs to his horse and came up with the princess and Volodyevsky. After riding for about an hour they crossed the Medvedovka forest which from the river bank stretched along their path like two dark walls. I know this region well, said Zagloba. We shall soon be through this wood. Beyond it is open land for a quarter of a mile crossed by the highway to Czarniostrof. Then there are thicker forests extending to Machnia. May it please God that we find Polish troops already in Machnia. It is high time for our deliverance, murmured Volodyevsky. Again they rode along in silence on the brightly illumined highway. Two wolves have just run across our path, said Helena suddenly. I saw them, answered Volodyevsky, and there is a third one. Indeed a gray shadow crept across the way about a hundred paces before their horses. There is a fourth, cried the princess. No, that is a deer. Look, lady, two. Three. What the devil! cried Zagloba. The wolves are being chased by deer. The world is topsy-turvy. Let us ride faster, said Volodyevsky, his voice trembling from anxiety. Genzian, come here, and ride ahead with the princess. They flew along, but as they rode Zagloba bet over towards Volodyevsky and asked, Penn Michael, what is the trouble? Bad, answered the little knight. You observe that the beasts have been disturbed from their sleep in their layers and are running about in the night. And what does that mean? It means that they are being frightened. By whom? By soldiers, either Cossacks or Tartars who are approaching us from the right. But perhaps these are our own troops. That cannot be, for the animals are fleeing from the east, from pilafets, and it is certain that the Tartars are approaching in a numerous body. Let us fly, Michael, for God's sake. There is nothing else to do. If it were not for the princess we could ride up close to their chambles and drag some of them out, but with her the matter would be too difficult should they spy us. Merciful God, Penn Michael, shall we take to the woods behind the wolves or what? That cannot be, for though we should escape the enemy at the present moment they would flood the regions before us and how then could we evade them? Thunder and lightning strike them. This alone was wanting. But Penn Michael, are you not mistaken? Do not wolves follow troops rather than flee before them? Those in the rear of the troops follow them and gather from afar, but those which are before them flee. Look, there to you right among the trees there gleams a fire. Jesus is Nazareth king of the Jews. Keep quiet. Is the forest much longer? We shall soon come to attend. And then do we get into open country? Yes, oh Jesus. Keep quiet. Is there another forest beyond? As far as Machnia. Good. If only they do not overtake us in the open field. If we will reach Yonder forest then we shall be at home. Let us keep together now. Luckily the princess and Genzian were mounted on Berleys horses. They spurred the horses in order to join their friends who were ahead. What kind of fire is that that I see at the right? Asked the princess. There's no use in concealment, answered the little knight. There may be tartars. Machnia. Do not worry, my lady. I'll wager my head that we escaped them and in Machnia are our troops. For heaven's sakes let us make haste, exclaimed Genzian. They rode on in silence, flying along like specters. The forest grew lighter and they were beginning to get to its end. The firelight also grew dimmer. Suddenly Helena addressed the little knight. Sure, said she, promise me that you will not let me fall into their hands alive. That will not happen as long as I live, answered Volodievsky. Hardly had they emerged from the forest and entered the open country, or rather the steppe, which extended for about a quarter of a mile when they beheld beyond another line of forest. The clearing, open in all directions, gleamed in the silvery beams of the moon, as bright almost as the daylight. This is the worst part of our way, whispered Volodievsky to Zaglova. For if they be in Charny Ostrov, they must cross here between the woods. Zaglova did not reply, he only spurred his horse. They had gotten over half of the clearing and they were drawing nearer and nearer to the forest before them, and its outlines showed up distinctly when suddenly the little knight pointed towards the east. Look! he said to Zaglova, do you see? I see bushes and thickets in the distance. But those bushes are moving. On, on, they can't fail to see us. The wind whistled by the ears of the riders, the protecting forest came nearer and nearer. All of a sudden there came a sound like the roaring of ocean waves from the approaching mass on their right, and at the next moment one mighty shout filled the air. They see us, roared Zaglova, the dogs, the rascals, the devils, the wolves, the ruffians. The forest was so near that the fleeing ones already felt its cool, raw air blowing upon their faces. But the cloud of tartars also grew invisible, and the dark body shot out long arms like the feelers of a gigantic monster, approaching with inconceivable speed. Volodyovsky's trained ear could already clearly distinguish their cries. Allah! Allah! My horse has stumbled, shouted Zaglova. That does not matter, replied Volodyovsky. But like lightning the question flashed through his brain. What would happen if the horses gave out, or if one of them broke down? They had already made the journey from Plaskarov without rest after the first mad rush from the town to the forest. They might indeed mount the reserve horses, but these were worn out also. What is to be done now? thought Volodyovsky, and his heart beat in alarm perhaps for the first time in his life. Not for himself, but for Helena, whom during this long journey he had learned to love as his own sister. Too well he knew that when once the Tartars began to pursue they would not soon relinquish the chase. They overtake us. They shall not take her, said the night to himself, grinding his teeth. My horse has stumbled, cried Zaglova, for the second time. That does not matter, repeated Volodyovsky. Now they sped into the forest. Darkness enveloped them, but several Tartars were not more than a few hundred feet behind them. The little knight already had made up his mind how to act. Genzian, cried he, turned with the lady into the nearest pathway. All right, sir, answered the lad. Then the little knight addressed Zaglova. Have your pistols ready in your hand. At the same time he grasped the bridle of Zaglova's horse to check its speed. What are you doing? cried the nobleman. Nothing, check your horse. The distance between them and Genzian, who flew along with Helena, grew greater and greater. At length the fleeing pair reached a spot towards the barge and straight ahead the narrow path trailed through the forest. The entrance to which was almost hidden by branches. This Genzian entered and shortly disappeared with Helena in the thicket in the darkness. Meanwhile Volodyovsky had stopped his horse and that of Zaglova. In the name of God, what are you doing? said the noble. We must delay the pursuit. There is no other way of rescuing the princess. We are lost. Let us be lost. Stop here, right by the side of the road. Here, here. Both tried to hide themselves in the dark shadows of the trees. The mighty tramping of the tartar horses approached and rumbled along like a wild tempest, causing the whole forest to resound. Hit us come, said Zaglova. He lifted the wine-skin to his lips and drank and drank. Then he shook himself. In the name of the father, son and holy ghost, cried he, I am ready to die. Wait, wait! exclaimed Volodyovsky. Three of them are riding in advance. There's just what I desired. On the clear road there appeared three horsemen who evidently had the best steeds, so-called wolf hunters of the Ukraine, their name implying power to overtake the speediest wolf. A few hundred steps behind them were some others, and still farther behind was a dense mass of the horde. When the first three had come close to the ambush, two shots rang out and then Volodyovsky sprang like a panther into the middle of the road and in a second, as Zaglova had time to think or had time to exactly appreciate what had happened, the third tartar fell as if struck by lightning. Mount shouted the little knight. Zaglova did not wait for further instructions. They fled along the highway like two wolves chased by a pack of bloodthirsty hounds. Meantime the tartars in the rear reached their dead comrades, and when they saw that the hunted wolves could inflict deadly wounds, they paused for a while . C, said Volodyovsky, I knew that we could retard them. But though the fleeing ones had gained an advantage of a few hundred steps the pursuit was not interrupted for long but the tartars now rowed in larger companies and no small detachment now pushed forward as before. The horses of the fleeing ones however became exhausted by the long ride and their speed slackened. Zaglova's horse, in particular as it bore considerable burden, stumbled repeatedly. The few remaining hairs on the old stood up like bristles at the thought that he might fall. "'Michael, dearest Michael, don't desert me,' he cried in despair. "'Don't worry about that,' replied the little knight. "'This horse, may the wolves!' He did not finish the sentence, and arrows swished by his ear, followed by more whistling and humming about like bees and gadflies. One arrow sped so close to Zagloba's ear that it's half almost touched him. Volodyovsky turned, and again fired two shots at his pursuers. Zagloba's horse now stumbled so badly that its nostrils almost touched the ground. "'By the living god, my horse is breaking down,' cried Zagloba, in a heart-breaking voice. "'Get off the saddle and into the woods,' ordered Volodyovsky. Then he reigned in his horse, and springing off disappeared with Zagloba into the darkness. But this maneuver did not escape the eyes of the tart-tars, several of them sprang from their horses and continued the pursuit. The branches tore the cap off Zagloba's head, slapped him in his face, and caught his coat. But the noble kept bravely on, and ran as if he were but thirty years old. At times he fell, but he rose again, and ran on still faster, panting and puffing like a bellows. Finally he fell into a hole, and felt that he could not get out of it, for his strength had deserted him entirely. "'Where are you?' whispered Volodyovsky. "'Here, in a hole, all those over with me. Save me, Michael.' But Pan-Michael jumped immediately into the hole, and closed Zagloba's mouth with his hand. "'Keep still. Perhaps they won't notice us. At any rate, we will defend ourselves.' Meanwhile the tartars came up, some indeed past the hole, thinking that the runaways were ahead, others advanced slowly, looking about them carefully in all directions. The knights held their breath. "'Let one fall in here,' thought Zagloba, in desperation. "'I'll fix him.' Now sparks flew all about. The tartars began to strike fire. In the light their wild faces could be seen with protruding cheekbones and thick lips, how they blew with the flickering wood. For some time they kept going about in a circle, but a few steps away from the hole. They approached like ill omen phantoms of the forest and came nearer every moment. A moment later a great uproar arose from the highway and penetrated the silent depths of the forest. The tartars ceased striking fire, and stood dumbfounded. Volodyovsky's hand convulsively grasped Zagloba's arm. The noise grew louder, and suddenly red lights flashed up, and following them the sound of volleys, the sound of muskets, then another and another mingled with the shouts of Allah, Allah. Then was heard the clash of sabers, the naing of horses, the trampling of hoofs, and tumultuous uproar. A battle was taking place on the highway. "'Hours, hours,' shouted Volodyovsky. "'Kill, slay, cut, slaughter,' roared Zagloba. The next moment several dozen tartars rushed past the hole in wild confusion in the direction of their comrades. Volodyovsky could not restrain himself any longer. He followed close upon their heels into the thicket amid the darkness. Zagloba remained at the bottom of the pit. After a time he attempted to crawl out, but he could not. Every bone in his body was aching. He could hardly stand on his feet. "'Wait, you rascals,' said he, looking about him. "'You have run away, but it's a pity one of you didn't stay here. Why for company and wouldn't I show him where pepper grows?' "'Oh, Pagans, I will slaughter you like cattle.' "'My God! The noise is growing louder. I would that Prince Yermy himself were there. He would make it hot for you. You shout, a-la, a-la. Soon the wolves will yelp, a-la, over your carrion. But think of it, Michael has left me here alone. Well, it is no wonder, for he is young and fiery. After this expedition I will follow him to hell, for he is not a friend of that leaves one in distress. He is a wasp. In one moment he stung three of them. If only I had the wine-skin here. But the devil has surely taken it. The horses must have trampled over it. The insects are biting me in this cursed hole. But what was that? The shouting and the sound of muskets now sounded in the direction of the open field, and of the first forest. "'Ah!' said Zaglaba. "'They are at their heels already. Oh, dog-brothers, you did not hold your ground. Makes to be to God most high.' The shouts grew still fainter. "'They ride valiantly,' murmured the nobleman. "'But I see that I am doomed to stay in this hole. Perhaps to become the prey of wolves. First Bohun, then the Tartars, and at last the wolves. May God, given Bohun to the stake, and madness to the wolves. It was the Tartars who ran. Our men will not spare them.' "'Michael! Michael!' But only silence answered Zaglaba's shouts. The forest murmured, and afar off the noises grew fainter and fainter. "'If matters remain like this, I shall have to sleep here. The devil take it.' "'Hello! Michael!' But Zaglaba's patience had to stand a longer test, for it was dawn when the galloping of the horses was heard again on the road, and light broke in the forest. "'Penn Michael, here I am!' called out the nobleman. "'Creep out of there. How can I?' Then Michael stood at the edge of the hole with a torch in his hand. He stretched out his other hand to Zaglaba, and said, "'Well, the Tartars are gone. We drove them beyond the forest.' "'And who was with you?' "'Kuschel and Ratzvorovsky, with two thousand horse. My dragoons were also with them.' "'And were there many Tartars?' "'Well, a couple of thousand. God be praised. Give me a drink, for I am faint.' Two hours later Zaglaba sat in a comfortable saddle among Volodyovsky's dragoons. He had had his fill of food and drink. Beside him rode the little knight who said, "'Don't worry, for even if we do not reach Zabarj in company with the princess, it is better anyway than if she had fallen into the hands of the Pagans. But perhaps Genzian will convey her to Zabarj?' asked Zaglaba. "'He will not do that. The highways will be occupied. But for the chambles which we have repulsed will return soon to follow in our footsteps. Moreover, Berlais may arrive at any moment at Zabarj before Genzian could get there. On the other side Kimelnitsky and the Khan are marching from Konstantinov. Oh, my God! Then the princess will fall into a net! It is Genzian's lookout to get through between Zabarj and Konstantinov in time, and here Kimelnitsky's squadrons and hordes of the Khan surround them. I believe that he appreciates this fact." God granted. "'The boy is as cunning as a fox. You are a shrewd fellow, I admit, but he is still more crafty. We worried our heads over plans of how to save the girl, but at the end we were helpless. He made everything all right again. He will crawl out of this difficulty like a snake for his own life is at stake. Trust in God who has protected her so many times, and remember that in Zabarj you bade me have confidence when Zakar came there.' These words somewhat consoled Zaglaba, but he became lost and thought. "'Penn Michael,' said he after of time, "'have you asked Kushel where Sketschotsky is?' "'He is in Zabarj, and thank God he is well. He came with Zatzfilikovsky from Prince Kortetsky. But what shall we tell him?' "'That is a naughty point. He still believes, does he not, that the girl was murdered in Kiev? That's so. And have you told Kushel or anyone else whence we came?' "'Not as yet, for I thought it best to talk matters over first.' "'It would be better to keep the whole matter a secret,' said Zaglaba. For should the girl, God forbid, fall again into the hands of the Cossacks or Tartars, this would be new sorrow for Sketschotsky, just as if someone should tear open his recently healed wounds.' "'I will stake my head that Genzian will get her through all right. I would stake my own too, but Miss Fortune stalks abroad like a pestilence. Let us drop the subject, and leave everything to the will of God.' "'So be it. But will Padbepienta keep the secret from Sketschotsky?' "'You do not know him. He pledged his word of honor, which is sacred to this strange Lithuanian.' Kushel now joined them, and they rode on together in the early morning discussing public affairs, the arrival of the commanders at Zabarj, and consequence of Prince Yermi's commands, the expected arrival of the prince himself, and the terrible battle which could not be avoided with the whole force of Kemolnyetsky. End of Book 4, Chapter 1