"Well, my dear lieutenant," said the old man, "the boats are ready, you have trusty men for attendants; you can start, in God's name, this moment, if you like. And here are the letters."
"Then I'll tell my people to be off for the shore at once."
"But where are you going?" asked Zagloba.
"To Kudák."
"It will be hot for you there."
The lieutenant did not hear his prophecy, for he went out of the room into the court, where the Cossacks with horses were almost ready for the road.
"To horse and to the shore!" commanded Pan Yan. "Put the horses on the boats, and wait for me."
Meanwhile the old man said to Zagloba: "I hear that you court the Cossack colonels, and drink with them."
"For the public good, most worthy standard-bearer."
"You have a nimble mind, but inclining rather to disgrace. You wish to bring the Cossacks to your side in their cups, so they may befriend you in case they win."