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CHAPTER XVIII

THE Kurtsevichi were not sleeping yet. They were sup-
ping in that anteroom, filled with weapons, which extended
the whole width of the house, from the garden to the square
on the other side. At the sight of Bogun and Zagloba,
they sprang to their feet. On the face of the princess was
reflected not only astonishment, but displeasure and fright
as well. Only two of the young men were present,---
Simeon and Nikolai.

"Oh, Bogun!" exclaimed the princess. "But what are
you here for?"

"I came to do you homage, mother. Are you not glad
to see me?"

"I am glad to see you,----glad; but I wonder that you
came, for I heard that you were on guard in Chigirin. But
whom has God sent to us with you?"

"This is Pan Zagloba,----a noble, my friend."

"We are glad to see you, sir," said the princess.

"We are glad," repeated Simeon and Nikolai.

"Worthy lady!" said Zagloba, "an untimely guest, it is
true, is worse than a Tartar; but it is known also that
whoever wishes to enter heaven must receive the traveller
into his house, give meat to the hungry, and drink to the
thirsty"---

"Sit down, then; eat and drink," said the old princess.

"We are thankful that you have come. But, Bogun, I
did not expect to see you; perhaps you have some business
with us."

"Perhaps I have," answered Bogun, slowly.

"What is it?" asked the princess, disturbed.

"When the moment comes, we will talk about it."Let
us rest a little. I have come straight from Chigirin."

"It is evident that you were in a hurry to see us."

"And whom should I be in a hurry to see, if not you?
Is Princess Helena well?"

"Well," replied the old lady, dryly.

"I should like to gladden my eyes with her."

"Helena is sleeping."

"That is too bad, for I shall not stay long."

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