And he read somewhat slowly, for he read to the nobles in Polish, and the letter was in the French language.
"'The emperor's cavalry advanced with effect and enthusiasm, but the action was ended by the Poles who left no work to the Germans. I cannot find words sufficient to praise the strength, valor, and bearing of the officers and soldiers led by Pan Lyubomirski.[[8]]
"'The battle,' writes the Duke of Lorraine, 'was a great one, and our glory not small.'"
"We will show that we are not worse," cried the warriors.
"I believe and am confident, but we must hasten, for later letters portend evil. Vienna is barely able to breathe, and all Christianity has its eyes on us. Shall we be there in season?"
"Few regiments have remained here, the main forces are at the Tarnovski Heights waiting, as I have heard, under the hetmans," said Father Voynovski, "but though our hands are needed at Vienna, they are not needed so much as a leader like your Royal Grace."
Sobieski smiled at this and answered,--
"That, word for word, is what the Duke of Lorraine writes. So, gentlemen, keep the bridles in hand, for any hour I may order the sounding of trumpets."
"When, gracious lord?" called a number of voices.
The king grew impressive in a moment.