“That renowned Lithuanian Kmita?” cried Charnyetski, seizing his forelock.
“The same. How the grace of God changes hearts!”
“For God’s sake. Now I understand why he undertook that work; now I understand where he got that daring, that boldness, in which he surpassed all men. Kmita, Kmita, that terrible Kmita whom Lithuania celebrates.”
“Henceforth not only Lithuania, but the whole Commonwealth will glorify him in a different manner.”
“He was the first to warn us against Count Veyhard.”
“Through his advice we closed the gates in good season, and made preparations.”
“He killed the first Swede with a shot from a bow.”
“And how many of their cannon did he spoil! Who brought down De Fossis?”
“And that siege gun! If we are not terrified at the storm of to-morrow, who is the cause?”
“Let each remember him with honor, and celebrate his name wherever possible, so that justice be done,” said Kordetski; “and now may God give him eternal rest.”