Further outbursts were interrupted by the Lauda men, who ran one after another to greet their colonel. The Butryms, the Smoky Gostsyeviches, the Domasheviches, the Stakyans, the Gashtovts, crowded around the wagon, and powerful throats bellowed continually,—
“Vivat! vivat!”
“Gracious gentlemen,” said the little knight when it grew somewhat quieter, “most beloved comrades, I thank you for your love. It is a terrible thing that we must refuse obedience to the hetman, and raise hands against him; but since his treason is clear, we cannot do otherwise. We will not desert our country and our gracious king—Vivat Johannes Casimirus Rex!”
“Vivat Johannes Casimirus Rex!” repeated three hundred voices.
“Attack the property of Radzivill!” shouted Zagloba, “empty his larders and cellars!”
“Horses for us!” cried the little knight.
They galloped for horses.
Then Zagloba said, “Pan Michael, I was hetman over these people in place of you, and I acknowledge willingly that they acted with manfulness; but as you are now free, I yield the command into your hands.”
“Let your grace take command, as superior in rank,” said Pan Michael, turning to Mirski.
“I do not think of it, and why should I?” said the old colonel.