“I am certain now,” said Prince Michael, “that Boguslav wants to seize all Podlyasye, so as to make of it a separate or feudal possession in the treaties. Therefore he has surely come with as much power as he could possibly get. I have no other proofs save a knowledge of Boguslav. He cares neither for the Swedes nor the Brandenburgers, only for himself. He is an uncommon warrior, who trusts in his fortunate star. He wants to win a province, to avenge Yanush, to cover himself with glory; and to do this he must have a corresponding power, and has it, otherwise he would not march on us.”
“For everything the blessing of God is indispensable,” said Oskyerko; “and the blessing is with us!”
“Serene great mighty hetman,” said Kmita, “information is needed. Let me loose from the leash with my Tartars, and I will bring you information.”
Oskyerko, who had been admitted to the secret and knew who Babinich was, supported the proposal at once and with vigor.
“As God is good to me, that is the best idea in the world! Such a man is needed there, and such troops. If only the horses are rested.”
Here Oskyerko was stopped, for the officer of orderlies entered the room again.
“Serene great mighty hetman!” said he.
Sapyeha slapped his knees and exclaimed. “They have news! Admit them.”
After a while two light-horsemen entered, tattered and muddy.
“From Horotkyevich?” asked Sapyeha.