A few detectives had also managed to find their way here, and there was even one provocateur. These chattels alone knew that the police had information about the meeting and that the wood would shortly be encircled by the Cossacks.
Conversations were kept up among small groups for some time before the meeting opened. The agitators discussed matters with labouring men who were not in the party. The more interesting people were introduced to the invited speaker.
Stchemilov’s loud voice rang out:
“Comrades, attention. I propose comrade Abram as chairman.”
“Agreed, agreed,” came suppressed voices from every side.
Comrade Abram took his place on a high stump of a hewn-down tree. The speeches began. Elisaveta was nervous until it came her turn to speak. She was troubled with pain and fear because she knew that Trirodov would hear her.
Proud, brave watchwords and bold instructions were heard. The provocateur also made a speech. He urged them to an immediate armed revolt. Some one’s voice called out:
“Comrades—this man’s a provocateur!”
There was a commotion. The provocateur shouted something in his defence. He was promptly jostled out.
Then Stchemilov spoke; he was followed by the invited orator. Elisaveta’s agitation grew.