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THE 
 
 CIRCASSIAN CHIEF, 
 
 VOL. I. 
 
THE 
 
 CIRCASSIAN CHIEF. 
 
 ROMANCE OF RUSSIA. 
 
 BY 
 
 WILLIAM H. G. KINGSTON, ESQ. 
 
 IN THREE VOLUMES. 
 VOL. I. 
 
 LONDON: 
 RICHARD BENTLEY, NEW BURLINGTON STREET. 
 
 1843. 
 
LONDON 
 PRINTKD BY SCHULZK AND CO, 13, POLAND STKKET. 
 
823 
 
 PREFACE. 
 
 Every person who writes, ought to have an 
 aim ; mine I leave to my readers to discover, 
 trusting that it will not be considered a bad one. 
 Although a work of fiction, many of the cha- 
 racters in the following Romance are no mere 
 creations of the brain, but real personages who 
 were, and probably are, still playing their part 
 on the stage of life, as the heroic Arslan Gher- 
 ,1^ rei, the brave and sagacious Hadji Guz Beg, 
 Selem, and many others whom I have intro- 
 5 duced among the Circassians. The names of 
 , the Russian officers are, however, purely ficti- 
 tious. 
 
 The recurrence of conspiracies, similar to 
 "that described in the following pages will be 
 found in nearly every work relating to Russia. 
 
 I have enjoyed the best means of gaining 
 correct information with respect to Circassia, 
 
VI PREFACE. 
 
 and have not failed, I hope, to profit by it. 
 As to my own political sentiments I have re- 
 frained from giving expression to them, leaving 
 such topics to those who delight in contro- 
 versy ; and for the opinions expressed by any of 
 the characters, I must not therefore be consi- 
 dered responsible. 
 
 London, June 1, 1843. 
 
THE 
 
 CIRCASSIAN CHIEF. 
 
 CHAPTER I. 
 
 Avean, cercando abbreviar cammino, 
 Lasciato pel sentir la maggior via, 
 Quando un gTan pianto udir sonar vicino, 
 Che la foresta d'ogn' intorno empia. 
 Bajardo spinse I'un, I'altro il ronzino 
 [ " Verso una valle, onde quel grido uscia ; 
 E fra due mascalzoni una donzella 
 Videa, che di lontan parea assai beUa. 
 
 ORLANDO FURIOSO. 
 
 Between the ancient and modern capitals of 
 Russia, a fine broad road now aifords an easy 
 communication, although, but a few years ago, 
 the traveller who would journey from one city to 
 the other, was compelled to proceed at a slow 
 pace, along a wild track, over rough stony 
 ground, through swamps, under dark forests, 
 and across bleak and unsheltered plains. 
 
 VOL, I. B 
 
2 THE CIRCASSIAN CHIEF. 
 
 The sun had already begun his downward 
 course towards the more happy, and free lands 
 of the far West, shedding forth his summer 
 rays on the heads of two horsemen, who pur- 
 sued their way in a southerly direction, along the 
 yet unimproved part of the road, to which we 
 have alluded. Their pace, as the nature of the 
 ground over which they travelled required, was 
 slow — their attention being chiefly occupied in 
 guiding their steeds between the many deep ruts 
 and cavities, which lay in their path. 
 
 The tone of their voices, their noble bearing, 
 and general appearance, bespoke them at a 
 glance, to belong to a station far above the 
 common rank of life. They were dressed alike, 
 in a half military uniform ; their arms consisting 
 solely of pistols, and heavy riding whips the 
 latter even no despicable weapon when wielded 
 by a strong arm. 
 
 The travellers might have been taken for 
 brothers, but that the dark flashing eye, black 
 hair, clear olive-complexion, and regular Grecian 
 features of the one, off'ered too great a contrast 
 to the laughing blue eye, light complexion and 
 hair of the other, whose features, though inferior 
 to those of his companion, were not deficient in 
 
THE CIRCASSIAN CHIEF. 3 
 
 manly beauty. There appeared to be scarcely 
 any difference in their ages, both having emerged 
 from boyhood, into that joyous time of life, 
 when the man has completely shaken off what 
 he then considers the irksome trammels of his 
 childish days ; happily, unconscious how soon in 
 their stead, advancing years may too probably 
 bring around him the many cares, and disap- 
 pointments that flesh is doomed to bear, from 
 manhood to the grave. 
 
 The last mentioned of the two way-farers, 
 was in reality, however, the elder; although the 
 light laugh he occasionally indulged in, and his 
 debonair manner, gave him a younger look, than 
 his more serious companion. They were fol- 
 lowed at a short distance by a most primitive 
 looking, low, square vehicle, containing their 
 baggage ; drawn by a shaggy little pony, and 
 driven by a man almost as rough looking and 
 unpolished as the animal itself. A low crowned, 
 broad-brimmed hat of felt, covered a head of 
 sandy hair, while a huge long beard of the same 
 hue hung down upon his breast : the twinkle of 
 his light grey eye, and a smile on his lips, giving 
 a good humoured expression to his flat, and 
 otherwise unmeaning features. 
 
 B 2 
 
4 THE CIRCASSIAN CHIEF. 
 
 His dress consisted of a long coat of coarse 
 cloth, buckled round the waist by a leathern 
 belt, and boots of the latter material, untanned, 
 reaching just above his ancles. He urged on 
 his little animal, as fast as it could travel, over 
 the rugged road, whistling, as he lashed his 
 whip, and whii'led it round his head — his 
 thoughts e\ddently not extending beyond his 
 immediate occupation. 
 
 The scenery through which the road led, was 
 probably as dreary and uninteresting as any to 
 be found in Russia ; a country, which can boast 
 of but few natural beauties, throughout its widely 
 extended territory. It ranged over a landscape, 
 as far as the eye could reach, consisting of a dry 
 uncultivated plain, with here and there, a few 
 clumps of stunted trees stiniggling into existence 
 upon the arid and ungrateful soil — fit emblems of 
 the miserable, and enslaved peasantry of the 
 country. 
 
 The travellers had continued on their course 
 through scenery equally unpicturesque for some 
 distance, when gradually it began to improve, 
 exhibiting a greater number of trees, and a 
 brighter verdure. A proposal was then made by 
 one of them, to which the other readily assented ; 
 
THE CIRCASSIAN CHIEF. 5 
 
 this was to urge forward the driver of their bag- 
 gage cart, with his charge to Tver, a town they 
 purposed resting at for the night, while they fol- 
 lowed at their leisure, through the forest they were 
 approaching. The servant was summoned by 
 the name of Karl, and ordered to proceed with 
 as much speed as his weary beast was capable of, 
 in order to secure a lodging and to prepare supper, 
 the materials for which he carried, together with 
 their bedding for the night — a necessary precau- 
 tion, the inns at the small towns in Russia, 
 affording very miserable accommodation. 
 
 Karl signified his comprehension of the order 
 and willingness to obey it, by a few guttural 
 sounds, and several low bends of the neck ; 
 when fioiu-ishing his long whip, he bestowed a 
 few additional lashes on the flanks of the pony, 
 who reluctantly started into a trot, dragging 
 the rude little vehicle over ruts and stones after 
 a most uncomfortable fashion. 
 
 The cavaliers then followed quietly on, at the 
 slow pace which the heat of a warm spring day 
 made most agreeable, each occupied with his 
 own thoughts ; those of the younger of the two 
 appearing to be rather of a sombre hue, as occa- 
 sionally a shade of melancholy would pass across 
 
6 THE CIRCASSIAN CHIEF. 
 
 his expressive features ; while, at other times, his 
 bright eye would kindle with animation, and his 
 lip would curl, as if some strong feelings were 
 working within his bosom. His friend, however, 
 endeavoured to amuse himself, and to enhven 
 the journey with snatches of gay French songs, 
 which he carolled forth in a rich, clear, and 
 cheerful voice ; and he now and then broke into 
 a merry laugh. At length, weary apparently of 
 his own thoughts, he exclaimed, 
 
 "Thank Heaven, Ivan, my friend, that we 
 are for ever free from dull and laborious studies, 
 and those odious college drills. Bah 1 I have 
 so w^orn out my eyes and the small portion of 
 brains I was ever endowed with, by reading, I 
 will not look into a book for a year to come. 
 We shall have no more of those sham fights, 
 but henceforth may expect every day to be called 
 upon to engage in the honour and glory of real 
 warfare. What say you, Ivan, does not your 
 pulse beat with quicker throbs in anticipation of 
 the glorious scenes of battle and conquest, which 
 we may soon find ourselves engaged in ? What 
 say you, shall we flesh our maiden swords in the 
 carcases of the turbaned infidels of Turkey ? They 
 are said to be no despicable enemies to contend 
 
THE CIRCASSIAN CHIEF. 7 
 
 with ; or if perchance our regiment should be 
 out of favour at head-quarters, we may be sent 
 to try our mettle against the mountain barbarians 
 of the Caucasus. I hear that there is enough of 
 hard fighting with them ; more perhaps than is 
 at all times agreeable. It is said, indeed, that 
 the Emperor considers a campaign in the Cau- 
 casus an excellent field for the display of the 
 military talents of those, whose ideas of that 
 phantom called " Liberty" do not exactly coin- 
 cide with his own. If such be the case, I shall 
 not be much surprised if we some day receive an 
 intimation that our valuable services are required 
 to strengthen his armies in that distant and 
 savage part of the globe. What say you, Ivan, 
 to this notion? Do you not eagerly long to be 
 wielding your sword against the savage hordes 
 of those unchristianised barbarians of Cir- 
 
 cassia ?" 
 
 The brow of Ivan had contracted during these 
 observations, which were uttered in a light, care- 
 less tone, and he had several times attempted to 
 interrupt his friend ; now, that the latter had 
 concluded, he indignantly exclaimed : 
 
 " I thought you knew me better, Thaddeus, 
 than to make a proposition of that nature to me. 
 
8 THE CIRCASSIAN CHIEF. 
 
 Never will I unsheathe my sword to aid the 
 cause of tyranny and injustice — such vile work 
 I leave to slaves and hirelings. Should Russia 
 herself be assailed, most willingly would I shed 
 my blood for her defence, as in such a glorious 
 struggle as that when she so gallantly beat back 
 the aspiring conqueror of Europe from her ter- 
 litories ; but never will I lend my arm to assist 
 in subjugating a free and independent people, 
 over whom she has not even the shadow of a 
 right to claim command. Rather would I break 
 my weapon into fragments, and forswear all 
 hope of advancement in the world." 
 
 A smile was rising on the lips of Thaddeus 
 at this sudden declaration of principles, so un- 
 usual in Russia ; but it was quickly checked on 
 his perceiving the stern expression of his friend's 
 countenance. 
 
 " Can you yourself, Thaddeus, not feel for the 
 oppressed ?" Ivan went on to say ; " you, whose 
 native land has so grievously suffered from the 
 power of Russia ; you, who have such deep cause 
 to rue the tyranny of her iron sway ! Then, as 
 you love me, never again give utterance to the 
 subject you have so thoughtlessly touched upon, 
 for it is one on which I cannot trust my feelings." 
 
THE CIRCASSIAN CHIEF. \) 
 
 " I spoke but in jest," answered the other, 
 " and most sincerely do I applaud your senti- 
 ments ; but alas ! I fear the principles you pro- 
 fess, when put in practice, will answer but badly 
 in this country, and are such as it is more pru- 
 dent to suppress. For my own part, I confess 
 that, though I have a high respect for the liberty 
 of all men — especially for my own, I have such 
 an innate love of fighting, that, provided an op- 
 portunity offer of exercising my propensity, 
 I care little in what cause I draw my 
 sword." 
 
 " For shame, Thaddeus !" cried Ivan, indig- 
 nantly. " I blush to hear one, whom I call my 
 friend, and who I trusted was formed for 
 nobler pui'poses, confess himself ready to become 
 the willing tool of a despot ; for to this does your 
 declaration amount." 
 
 Thaddeus laughed, and gave a shrug of his 
 shoulders, as he replied, 
 
 "Your emancipation from college, my dear 
 Ivan, has, in truth, wonderfully expanded the 
 liberality of your sentiments ; and it is indeed for- 
 tunate that the idea had not there occurred to 
 you of giving lectures on the rights and inde- 
 pendence of man ; they would have wonderfully 
 
 B 3 
 
10 THE CIRCASSIAN CHIEF. 
 
 edified your hearers among the cadets, and made 
 most admirable subjects and soldiers of them for 
 the Emperor ; but your exertions in the cause 
 of liberty would not have gained you much 
 credit in higher quarters." 
 
 " Your foolish bantering," answered the excited 
 Ivan, " is but a poor apology for your want of 
 liberal principles. Nor am I the madman you 
 wish to make me appear. You well know how 
 much I detested the thraldom in which we were 
 kept at college, and that I pursued my studies 
 with redoubled efforts and perseverance, in order 
 to emancipate myself as soon as possible from 
 that irksome and hated state. To you, as a 
 tried and only fiiend, I have now opened my 
 mind, trusting to have had a hearer who would 
 cordially agree in my sentiments ; but it appears 
 that I have been grievously mistaken, and I have 
 learned a bitter lesson — to trust in no li^dng 
 soul !" 
 
 The tones of the speaker's voice shewed that 
 his anger had risen to such a degree, that a reply 
 in the former bantering strain would probably 
 have caused a breach in the friendship of the 
 two young men. Thaddeus, therefore, wisely 
 endeavoured to calm his friend's anger by ac- 
 
THE CIRCASSIAN CHIEF. 1 1 
 
 knowledging the justness of his sentiments, and 
 by promising to adopt them himself if possible, 
 when suddenly their attention was roused by a 
 sound, which seemed like a human voice shriek- 
 ing for help, as from a distance the breeze con- 
 veyed it faintly to their ears. They had now 
 entered an extensive tract of open forest, the 
 trees generally scattered over the ground at some 
 distance from each other, yet in many places 
 clustering together, surrounded by dense masses 
 of thick and tangled underwood. 
 
 The young men seemed mutually to have 
 banished the feelings raised by their late warm 
 discussion, and instantly urged their horses at 
 full speed in the direction whence they fancied 
 the sound had proceeded, when a second faint 
 cry, though appearing to come from a greater 
 distance, assured them that they were following 
 the right course. 
 
 Their horses were greatly impeded by the 
 rough and uncertain nature of the ground, and 
 often they were obliged to make them leap over 
 the furze and straggling underwood, at the risk 
 of descending into some unseen cavity, or of 
 plunging into a morass. Notwithstanding the 
 numerous obstacles, they hurried on at increased 
 
1'2 Till;: CIRCASSIAN ClllKF. 
 
 spood, ongrr to render th(nr asslstanee ; for they 
 were eonlident that the piiM'einu; ery they had 
 hi\ird must hjive heen uttered h\ a woman in 
 distress. Thev wiM'e just emerLi:inL!; tVom a 
 ehnnp ot' trees among which ihcy had heen en- 
 tangled, wh(Mi again tlie ery was heard, lond and 
 distinct, and at that instant th(*y canght sight of 
 two horsemen galloj^ing among the tnu's, one 
 of whom hore a femali^ in his arms ; these were 
 t'ollowtni hy two men on foot running at fidl 
 speed. It was the work ol' some few minutes 
 hefore they could disengage thcmsc^lves from tht* 
 thickets and hrnshwood, a (lela\ which atVorded 
 the part\ alicad oi' i\\v\u an opportiinitN oi' in- 
 creasing thtMr (hstancc ; l)ut, urging (heir hors(>s 
 with wliip and spur ov(M* evcrv ohstack', and 
 gaining the more clear ground, lh(\v ere long 
 overtook the men on tool, who, siMMUg their 
 rapid approach, shouted loudly to tluMr com- 
 panions to return to their supj)ort. The latter, 
 howt^iM', in lieu o\' tiu'ning to nMuha' assistance, 
 redouhled tluMr speed, intent upon escaj)e, and 
 regardless of the loud criis of tluMr ovia-laken 
 followers. These, fuuling escape^ iinpossihle, 
 nislied forward to seize tlu^ hridkvs of their ])ur- 
 sucrs' horses, hut were so etieetually attacked hy 
 
THE CIRCASSIAN CHIEF. 13 
 
 tho heavy whips of the two cavali(3rs, that they 
 were fain, not only to loose their liold, hut were 
 completely disa])le(l from following. 
 
 Havin<jj thus got rid of th(;se Jintagonists, the 
 two friends set oif in pursuit of the mounted 
 rnfhans, who were fonnhly (tarrying away the 
 female ; her continued cries for assistane(;, indi- 
 cating the track they had tak(!n. 
 
 The scene liad hc^eome highly exciting. Be- 
 fore them lay an open fon^st glade;, and it was 
 now a trial of speed. Tlie nol)le animals urged 
 to their utmost, dashed onwards, app(;aring to 
 partake of the feelings which animated their riders. 
 
 The ravishers, on the near approach of their 
 pursuers, turned on their saddles, each levelling 
 a pistol at his selected man; these, fearful of 
 wounding the female, would not venture to use 
 their arms. The unencumhered horseman 
 discharged his pistol at Thaddeus, as the latter 
 approached; hut, at the speed they rode, the 
 aim was uncertain, and the hall flew wide of its 
 mark; before the villain had time to use a 
 second, the young Pole struck him on the head 
 with the butt-end of his whip, with so powerful 
 and well directed a blow, as to force him from 
 the saddle, from which he fell heavily to the earth. 
 
14 THE CIRCASSIAN CHIEF. 
 
 At the same moment, his companion, on 
 Ivan's attempting to seize his horse's bridle, 
 aimed a pistol at his breast ; but that movement 
 lea\dng his victim free, she quickly disengaged 
 her arm from the folds of the cloak which 
 shrouded her, and struck aside the barrel of the 
 weapon levelled at her rescuer; the impulse, 
 though feeble, was sufficient to divert its deadly 
 aim; the ball nevertheless grazed Ivan's side. 
 The latter succeeded, notwithstanding, in grasping 
 the bridle of his antagonist's horse, and the same 
 delicate hand which had but a moment previously, 
 in all probability saved his life, promptly 
 snatched the pistol yet remaining in the ruffian's 
 belt, and cast it to the ground. 
 
 The man who had fired at Ivan, was now 
 obliged to defend himself, and was accordingly 
 compelled to relax his hold of the girl, who, 
 when falling from the saddle, was fortunately 
 caught by Thaddeus. The latter had thrown 
 himself from his horse to prevent her sustaining 
 any serious injury, which, closely engaged as 
 Ivan was with his adversary, he had no power 
 to avert. 
 
 Giddy from the pain of his wound, and loss of 
 blood, Ivan loosened his grasp of the rein he had 
 
THE CIRCASSIAN CHIEF. 15 
 
 seized; this being perceived by his antagonist, 
 he plunged his spurs into his horse's flanks, and 
 dashed off at headlong speed into the depths of 
 the forest, where pursuit was entirely useless. 
 
 The young men, left victors of the field, now 
 turned their attention to the fair creature whom 
 their gallantry had so opportunely rescued ; and 
 well did the extreme beauty of her form and 
 features merit the looks of surprise and admira- 
 tion with which they regarded her. 
 
 Her appearance was indeed unusual, and 
 though they saw at once, that she was not one 
 of the exalted and proud ones of the land, they 
 internally confessed, that she was well worthy of 
 that distinction. The agitation of the scene had 
 caused the rich blood to mantle on her brow 
 and beautifully oval cheeks, the complexion of 
 which was of a clear, though slightly tinted 
 olive, while her large sparkling black eyes, moist 
 with tears, were now beaming with a look of 
 gratitude, as bending on her knees, she attempted 
 to kiss the hands of her deliverers, who pre- 
 vented her fi:'om paying them this homage. Her 
 glossy black locks, bound by a silver fillet on her 
 high and polished brow, were uncovered, and 
 hung down in long ringlets on her neck, nearly 
 
16 THE CIRCASSIAN CHIEF. 
 
 reaching to her slender waist. A light blue 
 cloak thrown over her shoulders, and a vest and 
 petticoat of red cloth trimmed with silver, com- 
 pleted her fantastic, but elegant and rich attire. 
 
 The character of her strange costume, and her 
 dark expressive features, proclaimed her to be of 
 that extraordinary race now wandering over the 
 greater part of the old world, who profess to 
 trace their origin from the aboriginal inhabitants 
 of Eg}^t; retaining the same language and 
 customs from age to age, and ever keeping dis- 
 tinct from the people in whose territories they 
 pass their migratory lives. 
 
 The scene we have described, passed in the 
 course of a few moments, during which time 
 the young men had become entire masters of the 
 field; one villain, who by his dress and manners, 
 appeared to be of a rank far above his com- 
 panions, had fled; the other still remained 
 senseless on the earth, from the stunning blow 
 Thaddeus had dealt him; while the two men, 
 whom they had first attacked, lay in a similar 
 plight at a considerable distance. 
 
 Astonishment kept her deliverers silent, as 
 they gazed with admiration on the Gipsy girl, 
 for her delicate features and slight airy figure 
 
THE CIRCASSIAN CHIEF. 17 
 
 shewed her extreme youth ; she was accordingly 
 the first to speak, when she found herself pre- 
 vented by them from expressing her feelings of 
 gratitude in the way she wished. 
 
 "Though you may deem, gentle Sirs, that 
 the thanks of a humble Gipsy girl can be but of 
 little worth," she said, " oh ! believe me, that 
 from the depth of my heart, I am grateful to 
 you, for ha\dng saved me from worse than 
 death, for well do I know the vile nature of the 
 man from whom you have rescued me. But 
 let me entreat you, haste from hence, or the 
 ruffian noble who has escaped, will return with 
 a band of his followers trained to evil, and will 
 thus not only render your generous and timely 
 aid unavailing, by again getting me into his 
 power, but his return may bring destruction on 
 yourselves." 
 
 " Fear not for us ;" cried Thaddeus, *' for 
 your sake, lovely maiden, we would face a hun- 
 dred foes ; and think not that such an arrant 
 coward, as yonder villain has shewn himself to 
 be, can make us hurry our departure. If he be 
 even one of the most powerful of the land, we 
 fear him not." 
 
 " He is wicked and powerful enough to com- 
 
18 THE CIRCASSIAN CHIEF. 
 
 mit his crimes with impunity," answered the 
 Gipsy giii ; "let me pray you earnestly, there- 
 fore, to complete the benefit you have rendered 
 me, and to foUow my advice by hastening from 
 hence; for I feel confident, that he will en- 
 deavour to revenge himself on you, for youi- 
 interference in my favour, and will return 
 shortly with a greater number of men than you 
 could possibly resist." 
 
 "You speak truly, I believe," said Ivan, 
 " and we shall do well to follow your advice." 
 
 "You are always in the right, Ivan," an- 
 swered Thaddeus, " so I suppose we may beat 
 a retreat after our victory, without dishonour, 
 when an overpowering force threatens us." 
 
 Oh ! yes ! — yes !" exclaimed the liberated 
 girl, " hasten from hence ; and believe me, there 
 is not a moment to be lost. Yet, grant me but 
 the one favour more, of allowing my kindred 
 and friends to return you those thanks which 
 my words cannot fully convey." 
 
 " We win, at all events, see you in safety," 
 answered Ivan, " and, at your desire, we will 
 avoid the chance of meeting your enemies, how- 
 ever httle we have reason to fear them." 
 
 They accordingly prepared to quit the scene 
 
THE CIRCASSIAN CHIEF. 19 
 
 of their encounter, and Ivan was about to offer 
 to raise the fairy-like form of the Gipsy girl on 
 his horse, when the slight exertion he made, 
 caused the blood to flow more freely from his 
 side, and she caught sight of the red stream 
 trickling down, which he himself had not 
 observed, for the pain was but slight, and the 
 excitement of action had diverted his attention 
 from it. The colour for an instant deserted her 
 cheek, as taking a light scarf from under her 
 cloak, she petitioned him to allow her to bind 
 his wound. " You are hurt, Sir," she exclaimed, 
 " and I am the unhappy cause of the injury. 
 My tribe have some skill in surgery: even I 
 myself have received instruction in the art from 
 an aged woman learned in simples, and thus 
 think me not bold in making the offer, but as 
 the slightest mark of my gratitude, let me be 
 allowed to heal the wound I have been the cause 
 of your receiving." 
 
 Ivan thankfully accepted her aid, as with 
 gentleness she quickly bound his side with the 
 scarf, for the pain had now considerably in- 
 creased. While thus engaged, they perceived 
 the two villains whom they had left senseless 
 on the earth, cautiously endeavouring to steal 
 
20 THE CIRCASSIAN CHIEF. 
 
 upon them, crouching as they advanced among 
 the low thickets ; and at the same time the 
 man who had been felled from his horse, shewed 
 signs of returning animation. Thaddeus hu- 
 manely placed the body of the latter reclining 
 against a tree, having wrested from him his 
 weapons, which he cast, together with such as 
 lay on the ground, to a distance, amongst the 
 underwood. The Gipsy girl had just completed 
 her task, when the horse belonging to their 
 prostrate enemy, after ranging the glade in a 
 wide circle, without however going out of sight, 
 now approached the spot he had first left, as if 
 in search of his master : with the rapidity of 
 thought she sprung forward, and catching the 
 animal's bridle, lightly vaulted on his back 
 without any apparent effort, merely touching 
 the saddle to steady herself in her perilous feat. 
 
 " Now, for the love of the God you worship," 
 she exclaimed, "ride on, noble Sirs, nor care for 
 me. We children of the Desert are early ac- 
 customed to far more difficult feats than this, 
 and without danger, I can retain my seat on a 
 more spirited steed than the one which now 
 bears me." 
 
 The young men, following her example, had 
 
THE CIRCASSIAN CHIEF. 21 
 
 mounted their horses, and on her pointing out with 
 her hand the road they were to take, the party 
 set off at full speed, though the former were 
 compelled to apply their spurs closely in order to 
 keep pace with the less fatigued steed of their 
 beautiful and extraordinary guide. She, avoid- 
 ing the thick tangled part of the forest, which 
 had before impeded them, conducted them by a 
 more circuitous way, but over smooth open 
 gi'ound, and at a much greater speed than they 
 had been able to attain when hurrying to her 
 rescue, until they regained the high road, which 
 they crossed, and plunged into the adjoining 
 forest. Suddenly checking her horse, she then 
 addressed them, 
 
 " Fear gave me the fleetness of the timid hare; 
 but truly ungrateful must I appear, through 
 my own weakness, in forgetting that one of my 
 generous preservers is suffering severe pain. Oh, 
 pardon me, for my fault, caused by the dread of a 
 danger which you are now unable to understand." 
 
 Ivan assured her that his wound inconve- 
 nienced him so little, that he was able to con- 
 tinue at the same swift pace, if she thought it 
 advisable; she again resumed the lead, though 
 not quite so rapidly as before. 
 
22 THE CIRCASSIAN CHIEF. 
 
 " Your horses are fatigued," she said, as they 
 rode onwards, " and the day is so far spent, that 
 it will be after nightfall ere you can reach any 
 shelter, and I fear that, before long, a storm will 
 burst over our heads : yon black cloud is but the 
 forerunner of others." 
 
 As she spoke, she pointed to an opening 
 among the trees, through which were seen dense 
 masses of clouds fast gathering on the sky. " If 
 you despise not the humble shelter of a gipsy 
 tent, you will there be treated to the best of our 
 means, for the people of my tribe, though rough 
 and fierce in aspect, will vie with each other in 
 shewing their attention and devotion to those 
 who have rescued one of their daughters from 
 peril." 
 
 A determination not to leave the young Gipsy, 
 until they had escorted her to a place of safety, 
 added to a natural feeling of curiosity to learn 
 something of the beautiful creature whom chance 
 had introduced to them under such exciting cir- 
 cumstances, prompted both Ivan and Thaddeus 
 to accept her offer of hospitality without hesita- 
 tion. 
 
 Although but a few minutes pre^dously, the 
 sky over head had been bright and clear, the 
 
THE CIRCASSIAN CHIEF. 23 
 
 storm which their guide had predicted, now 
 threatened to overtake them, as the heavens 
 became overcast with a dark canopy of clouds. 
 
 Once more pressing their jaded horses, they 
 galloped on for several miles, scarcely noticing 
 the nature of the country through which they 
 passed, until they arrived at a spot so thickly 
 wooded as to render a passage impracticable. 
 Their conductress, however, advancing a little to 
 the right, led them along a path formed appar- 
 ently by the hand of nature, through a narrow 
 entrance, winding in various directions, and 
 widening as they proceeded, till they suddenly 
 emerged into a sylvan amphitheatre carpeted 
 with soft green turf. In one part of the wood- 
 encircled glade, arose a group of tents, sur- 
 rounded by waggons ; whilst horses and other 
 cattle tethered hard by, were browzing on the 
 luxuriant pasture. 
 
 The approach of the party was immediately 
 announced by the loud barking of several large 
 shaggy dogs, who rushed forward with open 
 jaws, prepared to attack aU intruders ; but no 
 sooner did the savage animals hear the silvery 
 tone of the gniide's voice, than their angry growl 
 was changed into a cry of joy, as leaping up 
 
24 THE CIRCASSIAN CHIEF. 
 
 they fawned on her, and endeavoured to gain 
 her caresses. They were quickly recalled by a 
 man who issued from the shelter of the waggons, 
 armed with a long gun; he, on recognising the 
 Gipsy maiden advanced without any parley, to 
 hold her horse's rein, as she dismounted, spring- 
 ing lightly on the turf A shrill w^histle from 
 him brought out two rough looking little 
 urchins, who, at his sign, ran quickly forward to 
 perform the same office for the strangers. 
 
 After exchanging a few words with the atten- 
 dant, in a language unintelligible to Ivan and 
 Thaddeus, their guide led the way towards a tent, 
 which, from its size appeared to be the principal 
 in the encampment : like the rest it was formed 
 of skins neatly sewn together, affording a secure 
 shelter from the weather. 
 
 In front stood a tail w^ell built man, whose 
 dark elf locks escaping from beneath a sheep 
 skin cap, gave him somewhat of a ferocious 
 appearance, which, however, his full and spark- 
 ling black eye, and the laughing curl of his lips 
 fully belied. His dress consisted of a cloth 
 jacket confined at the waist by a leathern belt, and 
 full trow^sers with leggings of untanned leather. 
 He gazed with a look of astonishment at the in- 
 
THE CIRCASSIAN CHIEF. 25 
 
 truders, then at their conductress, from whom he 
 seemed to ask for an explanation, as she hastened 
 to meet him with an air of affection. Folding 
 her in his arms with a fond and gentle embrace, 
 after exchanging a few words in a hurried and 
 low tone of voice, he stepped up to where the 
 strangers stood, and grasping their hands, 
 pressed them to his heart. 
 
 " The preservers of my daughter," he said, 
 addressing them in Russian, " are thrice welcome 
 to my humble tent, and it will be my aim, and 
 that of all the tribe, of which I am the head, 
 to show to the utmost om' gratitude for the 
 benefit conferred upon us. Think not, noble 
 Sirs, that, though the world accuses us of many 
 \aces, iuOTatitude is one with which we can 
 be justly charged. But see ! while I thus de- 
 tain you the storm is about to burst, and my 
 tent will at least afford you shelter from its fury, 
 though it be destitute of the luxuries to which 
 you are accustomed." 
 
 Heavy drops of rain had now commenced 
 falling; the mnd whistled mournfully through 
 the boughs of the trees, which became wildly 
 agitated by the sudden blast, while vivid flashes 
 
 VOL. I. C 
 
26 THE CIRCASSIAN CHIEF. 
 
 of lightning darted from the heavens, and played 
 around their heads. 
 
 " Will you deign, noble Sirs, to enter the only 
 abode I can call my own," said the Gipsy chief, 
 leading the way to his tent ; " a very changeable 
 one in truth ; but wherever my tent is pitched, 
 there shall my friends be welcome." 
 
 Sapng which, he arrived at the entrance of 
 the principal tent, while his daughter, making 
 a sign of respect to his guests, withdrew to a 
 neighbouring one. 
 
THE CIRCASSIAN CHIEF 2? 
 
 CHAPTER 11. 
 
 Olyhius. — What sudden speed is this ? 
 Margarita. — My lord, I do beseech you let me pass, 
 I have nor time — nor wish. 
 
 MARTYR OF ANTIOCH. 
 
 The travellers had full reason to congratulate 
 themselves on escaping the torrents of rain now 
 rushing down from the thick-gathered clouds, as 
 they followed the Gipsy chief into his tent, the 
 interior of which seemed to afford better accom- 
 modation than its outward appearance had pro- 
 mised. About midway, a cuj-tain stretching the 
 whole width of the tent, now drawn up, exposed 
 the whole of the interior at one view ; but on 
 being unfolded, formed two distinct apartments. 
 The furniture was of the most simple descrip- 
 tion, consisting m.erely of several large chests, on 
 which were piled various rolls of skins and 
 blankets, and a few stools and benches. At 
 one end, suspended against the sides of the tent, 
 
 c 2 
 
28 THE CIRCASSIAN CHIEF. 
 
 hung a variety of kitchen utensils in the highest 
 state of polish ; at the other, fire-arms of different 
 sizes and workmanship, powder-flasks,* and shot- 
 belts, and hunting-knives, picturesquely mingled 
 with the produce of the chase. There were also 
 several planks intended for tables, beds, or for 
 seats. The ground was hidden fi:-om view by a 
 warm and soft carpet of skins ; the selection of 
 the spot was judicious, for, being raised slightly 
 above the surrounding land, it remained per- 
 fectly dry, notwithstanding the flood of rain out- 
 side. 
 
 The only inmate of the tent, when the party 
 entered, was a handsome woman, whom the 
 Gipsy introduced to the strangers as his wife. 
 She was busily employed in some housewifery 
 occupation, which she quitted to receive the 
 ^dsitors, assuming an air which would not have 
 disgraced a high-born lady, and then proceeded 
 to prepare the evening repast. 
 
 A couple of chests were brought forward, 
 upon which they laid a platform of boards, 
 forming an excellent table: this was quickly 
 covered with an abundance of cold provisions, 
 fowls and game of various kinds, coarse but 
 sweet bread, and a bottle of Quass, the common 
 
THE CIRCASSIAN CHIEF. 29 
 
 beverage of the country, manufactui'ed from 
 malt ; nor were more potent spirits wanting to 
 cheer the guests. 
 
 Their host requested the young men to be 
 seated at the table, while he and his wife 
 attended to their wants, nor would he be pre- 
 vailed upon to join them in their repast. 
 " It behoves us," he replied, " to wait on you, 
 while our tent is honoured by your presence; 
 and I pray you. Sirs, to excuse my daughter 
 Azila's absence, she has retired among the other 
 maidens of the tribe, to rest awhile after the 
 fatigue her looks too clearly betray she has 
 suffered. I confess I am still ignorant of 
 the details of her adventure; it was sufficient 
 at first for me to know that you had con- 
 ferred a benefit on one so dear to me. 
 
 " Her protracted absence had, indeed, given 
 me anxiety, as she had not told me of her in- 
 tention to quit the camp ; but at the same time 
 I do not interfere with her movements, which 
 are often unknown to any of the tribe, and she 
 is accustomed to go and return unquestioned. 
 Azila is indeed a strange girl, and few can 
 match her in understanding, or resolution; I 
 w^ell know that she has always just reasons for 
 
30 THE CIRCASSIAN CHIEF. 
 
 her frequent excursions from the camp, and that 
 her exertions are in the cause of justice and 
 humanity, so I do not seek to inquire into more 
 than what she herself thinks right to tell me ; 
 I know well that I can trust her." 
 
 Although their host's features and manner 
 evidently exhibited his anxiety to learn all that 
 had occurred, his hospitality would not permit his 
 guests to speak of their adventure until the 
 repast was finished; when they recounted the 
 events which led to theii' liberation of his 
 daughter. While they were speaking, the ob- 
 ject of their conversation entered the tent, and 
 approaching her father, reverently kissed his 
 hand, then bowing to his guests, with arms 
 crossed on her bosom she stood with downcast 
 eyes by his side. The father gazed on her with 
 looks of affection, while the young men could 
 scarcely conceal their admiration. 
 
 " Can this retiring, modest creature," thought 
 Ivan, " be the same who, so short a time since, 
 proved herself endowed with so much courage 
 and resolution ?" 
 
 Neither of the two friends could, for some 
 time, find words to address her, for they felt that 
 terms of flattery and compliment would be 
 
THE CIRCASSIAN CHIEF. 31 
 
 despised by one so superior ; her father, however, 
 relieved them from their embarrassment. 
 
 " Now that our guests have tasted of our food, 
 and drunk from our cup, I may ask of you, my 
 child, an explanation of the circumstances that 
 preceded your rescue. I burn to know who has 
 dared to commit such an outrage on one of the 
 children of the Zingani ; whoever he be, he shall 
 not escape the punishment due to his villany." 
 
 A blush mantled on the cheek of the Gipsy 
 girl as she answered, " Alas ! my father, I 
 fear that my enemy is too powerful and cautious, 
 for you to be able to punish him, and there are 
 circumstances which have lately occurred to me, 
 I would fain have hidden even from you, had 
 not he of whom I am about to speak, carried 
 his persecution to so flagrant an extent. My 
 story is a long one ; but at your desire I will 
 relate it, entreating my brave defenders will 
 pardon a poor maiden for her hesitation in 
 recounting events which have caused her much 
 pain. 
 
 " During one of my last visits to Moscow, 
 when our encampment was formed in its 
 vicinity, I one day joined a party of the 
 daughters of another tribe of our people, to one 
 
32 THE CIRCASSIAN CHIEF. 
 
 of whom I had matters to communicate. Thev 
 were dancing and singing in the public gardens 
 to crow^ds of admiring citizens, who were en- 
 joying their evening's recreation after the toils of 
 the day. As we moved from place to place, I 
 observed a person intently observing me, who 
 I fancied had, during the day, been watching 
 and following me ; and him I now distinguished 
 from the crowd by llis handsome dress, and the 
 disdain with which he regarded all around him. 
 As I moved on with my companions he still 
 followed us, till at length weary, doubtless, of 
 viewing the same dances, and hearing the same 
 songs, he disappeared from the gardens, and I 
 then concluded that I had been mistaken in my 
 suspicions. The evening was far advanced 
 when, having parted from my companions, I 
 set out alone to return to the encampment, and 
 in seeking to reach it by a shorter path, I found 
 myself in a secluded walk. Hastening along, 
 I was suddenly confronted by a stranger whom 
 I immediately recognized as the same, who had 
 previously watched my movements in the gar- 
 dens. As I endeavoured to pass him un- 
 noticed, he seized my arm with a rude grasp, 
 and exclaimed : 
 
THE CIRCASSIAN CHIEF. 33 
 
 " ' Ah ! have I at last found you, my fair 
 damsel, for whom I have been searching so 
 many long days ? Often have I seen you, but 
 until now never gained an opportunity of de- 
 claring my sentiments. I am the Count Erin- 
 toff! My carriage is waiting near, and will 
 soon transport you beyond the reach of those 
 who have interested motives in detaining you 
 among them.' 
 
 " I cannot repeat all the arguments he used 
 to persuade me to accompany him, or the terms 
 of flattery and base offers he made. I treated 
 them all with the disdain they deserved. When 
 he pronounced his name, I recollected that I 
 had heard he was notorious for many vices, 
 even among those of his own rank, with whom 
 virtue is too seldom practised, or prized. 
 
 " ' Unhand me. Sir,' I exclaimed; ' I wiU no 
 longer listen to you, but would pursue my way 
 to my friends.' 
 
 '"Ah, my scornful beauty,' he answered with 
 a laugh, ' not so fast I pray you ; if prayers 
 avail not, I must e'en use gentle force to 
 compel you to accept advantages you would 
 so foolishly reject ; though not for the universe 
 would I injure you. Here, knaves!' summon- 
 
 c 3 
 
34 THE CIRCASSIAN CHIEF. 
 
 ing to the spot by their various names, some of 
 the vile assistants in his crimes. 
 
 "Seeing his servants hastily advancing, I strug- 
 gled in his grasp, and managed by a sudden 
 eifort to break from his hold; when darting 
 along the road, without once looking back, I 
 reached the camp, panting and breathless. This 
 outrage remained concealed within my own 
 bosom, for I well knew that the least hint 
 would cause many to take more than ample 
 revenge for the insult I had received. Having 
 sustained no actual injury, and trusting that he 
 would desist from any further persecution of me, 
 I was unwilling to bring any of my tribe into 
 danger, by interfering with so powerful an ad- 
 versary. 
 
 " Alas I I was doomed to be too soon again 
 exposed to his vile projects! This morning, I 
 had gone forth from the camp with Aza, Lina, 
 and other of our maidens, accompanied by 
 many of the children, to enjoy our pastime in 
 the woods, when in the midst of our sport, 
 after chasing each other among the trees, I be- 
 came separated from the rest. I heard the 
 laughter of my companions as they retreated, 
 but owing to the closeness of the trees, I could 
 
THE CIRCASSIAN CHIEF. 35 
 
 not distinguish their figures; at that moment, a 
 cry was raised by the children, that they had 
 seen a stranger in the wood. I hurried away 
 as rapidly as possible to rejoin the party, when 
 on a sudden, I was seized by two men, who had 
 sprung from a neighbouring thicket. In an 
 instant, before I could recover from the alarm of 
 their assault, they threw a handkerchief over my 
 head, to prevent me from crying for assistance. 
 Notwithstanding my utmost resistance, they 
 bore me roughly forward, until they i cached 
 another thicket; when the handkerchief being 
 partly withdrawn from my eyes, I beheld a 
 man on horseback, whose features w^ere shrouded 
 in his large cloak, attended by another holding 
 the rein of a led horse. They endeavoured to 
 persuade me to mount it, but I resolutely refused 
 to stir from the spot; nothing they said could 
 induce me, when the cloaked horseman losing 
 patience at the delay, seized me round the waist, 
 placed me on the saddle before him, and bidding 
 one of his followers mount the led horse, bore 
 me off at fall speed. Catching a glimpse of my 
 captor's countenance, to my horror I discovered 
 that I was in the power of the Count Erintoff. 
 The dreadful recollection now flashed across mv 
 
36 THE CIRCASSIAN CHIEF. 
 
 mind, that we were in the neighbourhood of one 
 of his estates; and I exerted my utmost strength 
 to escape from his grasp, careless of falling to 
 the ground in the attempt; but he held me 
 firmly, protesting, that he loved me to distrac- 
 tion, and that nothing mortal should deliver me 
 from him; while he threatened deadly vengeance 
 against any who should dare to make the at- 
 tempt. 
 
 " I could only vent my anger and terror in 
 loud cries for assistance, ha^dng succeeded in 
 withdrawing the bandage fi'om my mouth, nor 
 could he replace it, though the advantage 
 offered me but slender hopes of my cries being 
 heard. 
 
 " Thus w^as I forced away for a considerable 
 distance, in utter despair of being liberated, 
 when I was gallantly rescued by these noble 
 gentlemen at the hazard of their lives. Oh, 
 believe me. Sirs," she added, " that the Zingani 
 maiden can never, while life endure, be unmind- 
 ful of the great benefit you have bestowed on 
 her." 
 
 At this recital, the eye of the Gipsy chief 
 flashed with indignation ; " The audacious barba- 
 rian," he exclaimed, " shall rue his vile attempt. 
 
THE CIRCASSIAN CHIEF. 37 
 
 though happily rendered abortive ; nor shall his 
 high rank protect him ! Can he not be content 
 to tyrannize over the hapless slaves already in his 
 power, but that he must seek for fresh victims 
 among our tribe ? Does he mistake us for the 
 wretched serfs who till his lands ? He has yet 
 to learn that the Zingani are not of their base 
 caste. But, Azila, my child ! what causes thy 
 sudden agitation?" 
 
 " See, see, my father," she cried, pointing to 
 Ivan, who overcome by fatigue and the pain of 
 his wound, was falling to the ground, when the 
 Gipsy sprang forward and caught him in his 
 arms. "Alas," cried Azila, with an agitated 
 voice, " how ungrateful indeed I have been, and 
 neglectful of him who risked his life to save me, 
 that I should forget he had been wounded ! but 
 I will haste and conduct Hagar hither, who will 
 tend him with greater skill than I can, though 
 not with more care." Azila had scarcely left 
 the tent when Ivan returned to consciousness, 
 as he reclined in his friend's arms, Thaddeus 
 having relieved the Gipsy of his charge. 
 
 " He will soon be restored by the care of our 
 venerable mother, Hagar," said the chief; " for 
 there are few in this country so weU acquainted 
 
38 THE CIRCASSIAN CHIEF. 
 
 as she is with the healing art." As he spoke, 
 the person mentioned entered the tent, accom- 
 panied by Azila. 
 
 Her locks were blanched, and her form 
 bowed down by the weight of many years ; yet 
 though her skin was wrinkled and tawny, the 
 fii'e of her dark expressive eye seemed un- 
 quenched. " Mother," said Azila, " as you love 
 your child, exercise your utmost skill in the heal- 
 ing art, by recovering this stranger, who has 
 been wounded in my defence ; by your help I 
 know that he may be speedily restored to 
 health." 
 
 " Child," replied the sybil, " the power of 
 healing belongs alone to the great spirit who 
 guards our tribe, and I am but his poor servant, 
 ready to use the means he places in my hands ; 
 these will I gladly employ to cure this stranger, 
 though by his looks, I judge that quiet and 
 repose are the remedies most needful for him." 
 
 Such indeed was the case, and in compliance 
 with the old woman's request, the Gipsy's wife 
 busied herself in preparing the tent for the 
 night. The curtain alluded to, as intended to 
 separate it into two chambers, was lowered, 
 while, a bundle of skins and blankets being un- 
 
THE CIRCASSIAN CHIEF. 39 
 
 rolled, a couch was quickly spread on the planks 
 and chests, which had previously composed the 
 table. Thither Ivan was soon conveyed in the 
 arms of his fiiend and their host, the rest of the 
 family having quitted the tent, with the excep- 
 tion of Hagar, who proceeded to examine the 
 wound ; the Gipsy meanwhile preparing a second 
 couch, which he begged Thaddeus would occupy. 
 The old woman, having completed her inspection 
 of the hurt, and desiring the sufferer to remain 
 perfectly quiet until her return, left the tent to 
 procure the curative simples necessary to dress it. 
 
 Placing a lamp on the ground in the centre 
 of the tent, the Gipsy chief, ere he parted from 
 his guests, thus addressed them: 
 
 " Rest in perfect security, noble Sirs. I am 
 about to perform the rounds of the encampment, 
 to place trusty men on the watch, in case the 
 ruffians, who have this day attempted so vile an 
 outrage on my daughter, should be excited by 
 revenge at her liberation to attack us under 
 cover of the night. I scarcely deem them pos- 
 sessed of sufficient courage to venture on so bold 
 a project; but their leader is capable of any 
 atrocity ; and in this land, w^here the rich and 
 powerful are above the law, he relies on escaping 
 
40 THE CIRCASSIAN CHIEF. 
 
 wdth impunity, however flagrant the injury com- 
 mitted against the poor and humble. The 
 wandering life w^e lead teaches us caution ; but 
 on my w^ell-trained dogs I can place most reli- 
 ance in case of a sudden assault, for they never 
 slumber on their posts." With a respectful 
 salutation, he then quitted the tent. 
 
 Left alone with his friend, Thaddeus en- 
 deavoured to enter into conversation on the 
 occurrences of the day ; but Ivan, overcome by 
 the pain of his wound, replied in so faint and 
 languid a voice, as plainly shewed that he was in 
 no state to answer his observ^ations. He accord- 
 ingly stepped noiselessly to the entrance of the 
 tent, and gazed on the wild and unusual scene 
 which lav before him. The storm had now 
 passed away, leaving the dark blue sky in 
 unobscured splendom', spangled with millions of 
 ghttering stars, which appeared to have derived 
 a brighter lustre, as if burnished by the rolling 
 of the dark clouds, or sparkling in triumph at the 
 rapid flights of their sable adversaries. 
 
 A crescent moon threw a silvery light on the 
 topmost boughs of the forest trees, w^hose giant 
 shadow^s lay stretched in calm repose across the 
 verdant glade. 
 
THE CIRCASSIAN CHIEF. 41 
 
 At times he could perceive dark figures 
 emerging from the shade, and flitting through 
 the moon-light, again to be lost in the gloom, 
 like uneasy spirits wandering in search of rest ; 
 but which he concluded were either parties re- 
 turning to their tents, or the patrols on duty in 
 the camp. 
 
 Thus he stood for some time wrapt in medi- 
 tation, when suddenly he started at the appari- 
 tion of a figure which, issuing noiselessly from 
 the obscurity, was within a few paces of him 
 ere it was observed. He instantly recog- 
 nized Hagar, as she advanced, leaning on her 
 staff, and bearing in her hand a small basket. 
 Her white locks, hanging in disorder over her 
 wrinkled and care-worn brow, caused her to re- 
 semble one of the weird sisters bent on mid- 
 night evil, rather than a minister of good, hasten- 
 ing to relieve a human being. 
 
 The young Pole might be excused if a tinge 
 of superstitious distrust crossed his mind, and 
 he hesitated to commit his wounded friend to 
 the care of so strange a leech ; but quickly 
 banishing his doubts, he led the way into the 
 tent. Kneeling by Ivan's couch the aged Hagar 
 gently withdrew the scarf, which Azila had ap- 
 
42 THE CIRCASSIAN CHIEF. 
 
 plied as a bandage, and washing the wound with 
 a decoction of herbs contained in her basket, 
 again swathed it in linen. During the opera- 
 tion, she had continued muttering to herself, re- 
 gardless whether her patient or his friend were 
 listening, in the follo\\ing strain : 
 
 " Aye, aye, too clearly do I see how it will be, 
 and thus it has ever been ! Slight w^ounds oft 
 pierce far deeper than mortal eyes can see ; and 
 young hearts fear not the weapon that destroys 
 them, but bare their bosoms to the stroke ! 
 Aye, my child, my loved one ! bound nearer to 
 my heart than my own offspring, may thy 
 generous and noble heart have no cause to me 
 the wound this stranger youth has this day re- 
 ceived in thy cause ! Would that I could so 
 read thy fate, as to guard thee from evil ! Yet 
 when I gaze on the star of thy destiny, my eyes 
 grow dim, my thoughts become confused, and it 
 vanishes from my sight. This stranger — he will be 
 led by a far different path to any that thou canst 
 follow, my child ; for in this world justice will 
 never be done thee. He will pursue his course 
 among the high and mighty, and forget the 
 Gipsy maiden. Or if perchance she should 
 recur to his memory, it will be but as a phantom 
 
THE CIRCASSIAN CHIEF. 43 
 
 of a waking dream. Alas 1 far different will it 
 be for her ! And thus much can I foresee, that 
 his coming will work danger to my child. Alas ! 
 alas ! though I see it impending, I know not 
 how to prevent it. FuU well I marked the 
 earnest gaze she unthinkingly cast on this gallant 
 youth. In that one look lay concentrated, feel- 
 ings, deep, subtle, unknown even to herself, for 
 her thoughts were alone of gratitude to her pre- 
 servers. Though the fate of her I love, the 
 pride of my bosom, and child of my tribe, is hid 
 from my sight, no sooner did the bright stars 
 illumine the Heavens, than I discovered and 
 traced the destined course of this stranger. 
 Like the brilliant meteor which darted across the 
 firmament, unseen by any mortal eye but mine, 
 as I gazed but now above, I read that his course 
 win be rapid and briUiant, but boisterous and 
 marked with blood, yet pure and unsullied by 
 crime, and leading to a high destiny. As I con- 
 template these features, calm, and composed, I 
 mark that he is incapable of those crimes which 
 debase human nature. Yes, he is worthy of her 
 love. May the mighty spirit who guards our 
 tribe, watch over and protect the preserver of 
 my child." 
 
44 THE CIRCASSIAN CHIEF. 
 
 When the aged sybil had concluded these 
 obscure predictions, uttered in a low tone of 
 voice, as she performed her task, she poured out 
 a cooling di'aught, which she tendered to Ivan, 
 who gladly drank it off, and again composed 
 himself to sleep. 
 
 Thaddeus had but a short time before thrown 
 himself on his rude couch, and was fast wrapped 
 in slumber, when Hagar took her seat by 
 his friend's side. Commencing in a low sooth- 
 ing chaunt, she continued singing till she 
 observed that his eyes were closely sealed in 
 slumber. 
 
 The words she sang, or rather chaunted, 
 were to the follomng effect ; but being in the 
 Zingani language, which is known to few beyond 
 their own people, it is difficult to render their 
 literal meaning; most of the predictions she 
 uttered whilst di^essing Ivan's wound, were in 
 the same tongue, so that he remained perfectly 
 ignorant of the fate she had prophesied for 
 him. 
 
 Spirits, I summon ye ; 
 
 Spirits of air. 
 Come round this stranger, 
 
 Watch him with care. 
 
THE CIRCASSIAN CHIEF. 45 
 
 Come, come ye misty shapes. 
 
 Whence far ye stray. 
 Shunning the glaring beams 
 
 Of the bright day. 
 
 Come from dark Egypt's land. 
 
 Spirits who dwell 
 'Neath the vast pyramids' 
 
 Deep hidden cell ; 
 
 And who were worshipp'd in 
 
 Temples of old. 
 When priests of stern Apis 
 
 Men's fates foretold ; 
 
 From whence in middle earth 
 
 Fearless ye dwell. 
 Through its fierce fires. 
 
 List to my spell. 
 
 Come whence the northern blasts 
 
 Furious blow. 
 Fly on your whiten'd wings 
 
 From frost and snow. 
 
 Ye, who 'neath ocean roam, 
 
 Through coral caves. 
 Or in the sparkling foam. 
 Sport o'er the waves : 
 
 Ye, who on tempests ride. 
 
 When the fierce blast. 
 Driving the hapless bark. 
 
 Rives the stout mast : 
 
46 THE CIRCASSIAN CHIEF. 
 
 Ye whose loud shriek is heard 
 
 'Mid ocean's roar, 
 When the doom'd bark is hurl'd 
 
 On the stem shore : 
 
 Come, come, attend my will, 
 
 I summon all ; 
 Haste through the elements. 
 
 Come at my call. 
 
 After a profound sleep of some hours, Ivan 
 awoke with parched lips and a feverish thirst, 
 which he sought to allay with more of the same 
 refi-eshing beverage before presented to him. 
 He begged for it, and on taking the cup, could 
 not help fancying that the hand which offered 
 it, was not that of the aged nurse who had pre- 
 \dously tended him. 
 
 He spoke, to satisfy his doubts, but receiving 
 no answer, and drowsiness again returning, he 
 turned on his couch to recompose himself to 
 sleep, when by the dim light which now issued 
 from the lamp, he fancied that he saw a light 
 airy figure gliding from the tent. Yet fully 
 aware of his own feverish state, he attributed 
 the idea to a delusion of the brain ; nor had he 
 much time to think on the subject ere he again 
 sank into a sound and balmy slumber. 
 
THE CIRCASSIAN CHIEF. 47 
 
 CHAPTER III. 
 
 But there came a voice from a distant shore. 
 He was call'd — he is found 'midst his tribe no more : 
 He is not in his place when the night-fires burn, 
 But we look for him still— he will yet return ! 
 
 MRS. HEMANS. 
 
 Daylight was streaming brightly through 
 the opening of the tent, when Ivan was awakened 
 by the cheerful voice of his host in conversation 
 with his friend, who had already risen. To 
 their inquiries, he declared himself well nigh, 
 if not entirely recovered, since he was able to 
 rise and dress without feeling any inconvenience 
 from his wound ; nor did he consider it neces- 
 sary to call in again the assistance of Hagar, so 
 efficacious had been her remedies. He was 
 soon, therefore, on his feet, and accompanied 
 Thaddeus and their host into the woods sur- 
 rounding the encampment; the latter carrying 
 his gun, his constant companion he informed 
 
48 THE CIRCASSIAN CHIEF. 
 
 them, in case any game should cross the 
 path. 
 
 " So, my worthy host," said Thaddeus, " your 
 camp has escaped an attack from our enemies." 
 
 " I httle feared them," answered the Gipsy, 
 " as I considered that the Count Erintoff, and 
 his myrmidons lacked the courage to attack us, 
 however powerful his inclination to possess him- 
 self of my daughter, for they knew that we 
 should be prepared for them. Let them do 
 their worst ; we, the outcasts of society, and 
 despised of men, fear them not. Thus it is. 
 Sirs, in this unhappy country, where the haughty 
 nobles trample on, and oppress the soulless, 
 and therefore helpless people ; but let them not 
 suppose that we are of the same mould as those 
 over whom they tyrannize ! No, if we cannot 
 oppose them by open force, we can summon to 
 our aid our wit and stratagem. 
 
 " They have to learn also that a day of dread- 
 ful retribution is at hand ; that it will come, 
 when least they expect it. The people will soon 
 be aw^are of their own strength, however ignorant 
 they may now be of it, and will then no longer 
 submit to bear the chains of servitude, to which 
 they now patiently offer their necks. But your 
 
THE CIRCASSIAN CHIEF. 49 
 
 pardon, noble Sirs, you yourselves are of the 
 privileged order, and it may not please you to 
 hear your equals thus spoken of with disrespect; 
 though I deem you both very different in nature 
 from those I have described, and consequently 
 know that I can trust in you, or I would not 
 thus unburden my tongue." 
 
 Ivan was surprised to hear a man, whom he 
 imagined to be a wild, unlettered Gipsy, give 
 utterance to ideas so similar to those which had 
 been passing through his own mind; but stiU 
 imwilling to express his own sentiments to a 
 stranger, he merely assured him that what he 
 had said, gave no offence, either to his friend or 
 to himself; and he strengthened the assurance 
 by warmly wringing the Gipsy's hard hand as 
 he spoke. 
 
 Thaddeus added, as he sauntered onwards, 
 picking the wild flowers, that he considered it a 
 grievous pity, that there were not a few more 
 honest men like him in the world; as then there 
 would be but little to complain of. 
 
 "Sir," answered the Gipsy, "thousands of 
 bosoms beat with impulses similar to my own, 
 and wait but for the time and opportunity to 
 free themselves from bondage. It wiU be a 
 
 VOL. I. D 
 
50 THE CIRCASSIAN CHIEF. 
 
 dreadful crisis, for what power can place bounds 
 to an infuriated and desperate populace, when 
 once they have received the frenzied impulse. 
 Let those, who have been the first cause of the 
 insurrection, attempt to queU it; it would be as 
 vain to hope to check the mighty torrent rush- 
 ing from the before pent up glacier, when it 
 has burst its icy bonds. But enough of this, 
 Sirs. I warn you that even now, a storm is 
 gathering which wiU ere long burst over this 
 country; and may you be prepared to meet the 
 danger when it shall come. More I may not, 
 dare not say, and thus much gratitude, and the 
 certainty that I may fully trust you, have im- 
 pelled me to speak, that you may benefit by the 
 warning." 
 
 As they retraced their steps in silence towards 
 the camp, Ivan's thoughts reverted to the ex- 
 pressions which the Gipsy had let fall. 
 
 " And can there," he mused, " be a chance 
 of the regeneration of this country ; when slavery 
 shall no longer exist; and all men shall have 
 equal rights, and equal justice! Oh, how ar- 
 dently do I wish that I could be instrumental in 
 bringing about so happy a consummation!" 
 
 On their arrival, they found a repast laid out 
 
THE CIRCASSIAN CHIEF. 51 
 
 in front of the tent, consisting of wheat cakes, 
 and bowls of milk. In the places assigned to 
 the two visitors, were laid bunches of wild 
 flowers; that of Ivan being distinguished by a 
 wild rose, with the pure morning dew yet glis- 
 tening on its delicate tinted leaves. 
 
 " These flowers," said the Gipsy, " are my 
 daughter's gift to her guests, though she herself 
 cannot appear before them." 
 
 They both expressed their thanks for the 
 delicately marked attention, and on finishing 
 their simple, but plentiful meal, they mentioned 
 their wish to resume their journey to Tver. 
 
 The Gipsy chief endeavoured to prevail on 
 them, in his rough, but open and manly way, to 
 tarry another day at his camp; but they excused 
 themselves on the plea of their servant being in 
 waiting for them, and Ivan declared himself 
 fully capable of undergoing the fatigues of the 
 journey. 
 
 " If we may not then keep you longer with 
 us," replied their hospitable friend, " we will, at 
 least, accompany you on your way as far as the 
 Volga; on the banks of which rapid stream, we 
 are about to form our next encampment, for 
 
 D 2 
 
 UNIVERSITY OF 
 ILLINOIS library; 
 
52 THE CIRCASSIAN CHIEF. 
 
 after the occurrence of yesterday, I have deemed 
 it prudent to move at once." 
 
 The yoimg men gladly accepted of his escort 
 thus far on the road, and he accordingly gave 
 orders to strike the tents without delay. The 
 order was obeyed most expeditiously; men, 
 women, and children moAdng about with the 
 greatest alacrity in its execution. Some dis- 
 mantled the tents, and rolled up their covers; 
 others stowed their goods away in chests, each 
 undertaking his task according to his strength. 
 The different rude vehicles used to transport the 
 baggage were thus quickly laden, and in the 
 course of a few minutes, on the spot where lately 
 the skin-covered village stood in tranquil repose, 
 was to be seen a moving mass of noisy human 
 beings; the black marks of their fires on the 
 grass being the sole vestiges of their transitory 
 abode. Two wild-looking boys, whose elf locks 
 hung down on their shoulders in tangled masses, 
 and whose eyes sparkled with intelligence, led 
 forward the strangers' horses from a sheltered 
 spot, where they had been picqueted and well 
 taken care of, the chief of the tribe insisting 
 himself on holding their stii'rups, while his guests 
 
THE CIRCASSIAN CHIEF. 53 
 
 mounted, as he repelled the wild looking crea- 
 tures, who gathered round to perform the 
 office. 
 
 Bestriding a strong built cob, which seemed 
 fully able to perform a long day's joiu^ney, he 
 gave the signal, and the whole caravan was set 
 in motion, proceeding at as rapid a pace, as the 
 horses could drag forward the well piled baggage 
 carts. 
 
 The horsemen led the van, while Azila, the 
 chiefs wife, and some of the more aged and 
 feeble of the women, followed in a covered con- 
 vevance, of rather better construction than those 
 which conveyed the baggage ; the rest of the 
 tribe proceeded on foot, assisting in guiding the 
 carts and baggage horses. 
 
 The men were in general tall, strong limbed, 
 and dark looking, their eyes sparkling with ani- 
 mation and intelligence ; while the wildness pre- 
 vailing in their dress and manner, with the look 
 of careless confidence in their countenances, 
 shewed they were but little oppressed with care. 
 The women were dressed in apparel of the most 
 gaudy and fantastic colours, their free and inde- 
 pendent gait and air, being very different fi-om 
 that of the inhabitants of crowded cities ; their 
 
54 THE CIRCASSIAN CHIEF. 
 
 dark complexions set off by their flashing eyes, 
 were handsome and expressive ; and their light 
 elastic laugh resounded through the woods, as 
 jest succeeded jest amongst the party. Some 
 beguiled the way by singing wild and plaintive 
 melodies, with rich and harmonious voices, while 
 others accompanied the singers on various in- 
 struments, which they touched with considerable 
 taste and execution. 
 
 The Gipsies have indeed full scope for the 
 exercise of their musical talents in the east of 
 Europe, where they are invariably the chief 
 musicians at all feasts and festivals ; whenever 
 a fair or merry-meeting takes place there, a num- 
 ber of them are to be found, and are always well 
 treated by the people. 
 
 As Ivan and Thaddeus rode past the several 
 groups, the latter testified the utmost respect for 
 their leader's guests. 
 
 The party travelled on for several hours, halt- 
 ing only for a short time to rest, till the fast- 
 flowing stream of the majestic Volga first met 
 their view, rushing onward in its unimpeded 
 course towards the east, until it empties its 
 mighty volume of waters into the far distant 
 Caspian. Here the order was given to encamp, 
 
THE CIRCASSIAN CHIEF. 55 
 
 and a fitting spot being selected at a short dis- 
 tance from the river, the whole party were soon 
 actively engaged in unloading the waggons, and 
 in erecting their frail tenements. 
 
 "My worthy friend," said Ivan, addressing 
 their host, " time urges us to pursue our journey, 
 and with many thanks for your hospitality, we 
 must bid you farewell." 
 
 " Well, Sirs," he replied, " since it is your 
 wish to depart from us, I must needs yield, 
 though I would fain have persuaded you to re- 
 main longer among us, to have seen more of the 
 independent wild life we lead ; yet, ere you go, 
 there is one here, who would again assiu*e you of 
 her gratitude for your timely assistance in her 
 rescue ; and, for my part, although it may seem 
 presumptuous in me to make the offer, yet should 
 you ever be in difficulty or danger, let me know 
 of it, and I may be perhaps able to afford you 
 more aid, than other friends in a higher station 
 may be willing to effect." 
 
 Her father summoned iVzila, when the maiden 
 advanced with timid and bashful steps, followed 
 at a short distance by the aged Hagar, who 
 tottered in her walk as she came forward. 
 
 Already had the strangers paid their adieus to 
 
56 THE CIRCASSIAN CHIEF. 
 
 the Gipsy's wife, when turning round they per- 
 ceived Azila standing near them, with her arms 
 crossed on her bosom, and her eyes cast on the 
 groxmd. 
 
 " Adieu, noble Sirs," she exclaimed in faltering 
 tones, while tears glistened in her eyes, which 
 shone more brightly than before, undimmed by 
 those eloquent vouchers of her feelings, " the re- 
 membrance of your gallant bearing will ever dweU 
 in the mind of the humble Gipsy girl, and though 
 she may never be able to shew any other mark 
 of her gratitude, receive all she has to give — her 
 deep and sincere thanks." 
 
 She bowed her head to conceal her embarrass- 
 ment and agitation, and the old Sibyl then 
 advancing, thus addressed the strangers : " May 
 the mighty spirit who watches over the people of 
 the Zingani protect you from all dangers, for well 
 do I foresee that you will require his all potent 
 aid. The strong wind bloweth on a sudden, and 
 none can tell whence it ariseth; so will dan- 
 gers come thickly around you, nor can you fore- 
 see from what quarters they will spring, but like 
 the bold mariner who steers his storm-driven 
 bark amid rocks and quicksands to a safe 
 port, be prepared to meet and escape them, and 
 
THE CIRCASSIAN CHIEF. 57 
 
 you have nought to fear. And thou, noble 
 youth with the dark eye," she said, turning to- 
 wards Ivan, " the cold suns of Russia shone not 
 upon thy birth. Thou earnest from a far dis- 
 tant land, and thither thou must return, where a 
 high and glorious destiny awaits thee ; the way 
 will be stormy and dangerous, but hesitate not 
 to follow it ; for last night did I read thy fate in 
 the starry firmament above, and it leads to what 
 thou most desirest. And thou, gallant Sir," she 
 said, addressing Thaddeus, " with the joyous eye, 
 and light laugh, the stars smiled when I read thy 
 destiny, and it will be happy. Fare ye well ! ye 
 may never see the aged Hagar more, but re- 
 member her words. Farewell !" 
 
 While the Sibyl was uttering this prophetical 
 rhapsody, with aU the fervor of action and tone, 
 which her supposed inspiration gave her, the 
 tribe stood round in attentive and respectful 
 silence ; and even the young men were so struck 
 by her impressive manner, that they could not 
 resist paying more attention to her words than, 
 perhaps, their judgment would have allowed them 
 to bestow at other times. 
 
 "Thanks for yoiu* predictions, good mother, 
 and may they prove true," exclaimed Thaddeus, 
 
 D 3 
 
58 THE CIRCASSIAN CHIEF. 
 
 who was always ready to give a light turn to 
 anything which appeared more serious than 
 suited his humour ; " and now, our worthy host, 
 we must in truth delay no longer, and bid our 
 last adieu." 
 
 " Not yet, by your leave, Sirs," answered the 
 Gipsy, " I will, at least, shew you the road which 
 will lead you more dii'ectly, and in less time 
 across the forest ; which, without my aid, you 
 would scarcely find." 
 
 "The longer we keep your company, the 
 better shall w^e be pleased," replied Thaddeus; 
 " and therefore we again most willingly accept of 
 your offer." 
 
 Ivan had remained absorbed in thought, at 
 the conclusion of the Sibyl's predictions; but 
 suddenly rousing himself, he joined the Gipsy 
 and his friend; and as the young travellers rode 
 off, they received the parting salutations of the 
 whole tribe, and paid their more marked adieus 
 to Azila. 
 
 Ere they lost sight of the encampment, Ivan 
 descried the maiden's light form, watching 
 their departing steps, and, for many a day after, 
 did her graceful figure, and lovely countenance 
 dwell in his recollection. 
 
THE CIRCASSIAN CHIEF. 63 
 
 tention, which the noble mind of the generous 
 Russian could conceive, was lavished on his un- 
 fortunate prisoner, with the benevolent view of 
 banishing the recollection that he w^as an exile 
 and a captive. 
 
 Although he expressed his gratitude for these 
 coiu-tesies, they proved of little avail in over- 
 coming his wretchedness ; and, for some time, 
 he refused to give his parole to his captor, that 
 he would not attempt to escape. At length, the 
 patriotic old noble ceased to entertain hopes 
 that his beloved country could ever regain her 
 liberty, after the final and complete discomfiture 
 of her heroic sons under the walls of Warsaw. 
 With a heavy heart, he gave the required pro- 
 mise ; and bowed down with grief at his 
 country's loss of freedom, he abandoned all wish 
 of ever regaining his own. He thus lived on a 
 hopeless exile from that land, where his fore- 
 fathers had dwelt in honour and power for so 
 many ages, and where all the affections of his 
 heart were concentrated, save his love for his 
 only son, now, the sole link which held the 
 chain of his existence. On him he lavished all 
 his care, and the boy returned his father's affec- 
 tion with all the ardour of youth. 
 
64 THE CIRCASSIAN CHIEF. 
 
 Although the Russian noble had rescued his 
 friend from the rigorous sentence of banishment 
 to Siberia, the whole of his interest and influence 
 could not save from confiscation the property of 
 one who had taken so prominent a part in every 
 attempt of his countrymen to throw off the Rus- 
 sian yoke ; so that, with the exception of a small 
 pittance allowed him, he was entirely dependant 
 on his generous host. 
 
 The old Polish noble, broken-spirited, and 
 humbled as he was, hoarded his slender means 
 to the utmost, that, although dependant himself 
 on his friend, his son Thaddeus might never 
 owe aught to any one but himself. During his 
 son^s boyhood, he devoted his entire attention to 
 his education, and it was a solace to the old 
 man to find him so well worthy of his care ; and 
 when he had attained a proper age, he sent him 
 to the military college at St, Petersburgh, where 
 he gave him a sufficient aUowance from his ac- 
 cumulated savings, to enable him to support that 
 standing in society which he considered his birth 
 demanded. 
 
 He would willingly indeed have sent him to 
 any other country for his education, in preference 
 to that of the oppressors of Poland; but he 
 
THE CIRCASSIAN CHIEF, 65 
 
 found, on application, that his son could not be 
 allowed to quit Russia ; and disdaining any 
 other than a military life for him, he was com- 
 pelled to take advantage of the best which the 
 country afforded. 
 
 With a father's doting fondness, he hoped 
 that his son might, with his talents and his 
 sword, some day carve out a way to distinction ; 
 and perhaps, too, a latent hope existed in his 
 breast that he might aid in the restoration of his 
 native land. 
 
 From the time since Thaddeus resided under 
 the roof of his father's Russian friend, he became 
 a favourite with every member of the family ; and 
 when he mixed more in the world, his pleasing 
 manners and generous disposition caused his 
 society to be much sought after by all of his own 
 age and rank. No one, however, appeared to 
 have gained so much of his regard as the young 
 Ivan Galetzoff, who had w^on his affection with- 
 out the slightest effort ; but there was some- 
 thing in the bold, independent, and almost 
 haughty manners of Ivan, which made Thaddeus 
 at first regard him with more interest than he 
 bestowed on the rest of his companions who 
 were younger than himself. 
 
66 THE CIRCASSIAN CHIEF. 
 
 Ivan was nearly two years his junior, which, 
 at that time of life, often makes a great difference 
 in a youth's standing at school or college. From 
 his first arrival at college, Ivan Galetzoff had 
 appeared to keep aloof from the friendship of 
 his companions, though he joined, and excelled 
 in all athletic sports and exercises. He was 
 courteous to aU ; but his cold and reserved be- 
 haviour prevented the greater number of his 
 companions from making advances in his con- 
 fidence or fi'iendship. Thaddeus, by many 
 trivial attentions to the solitary youth, was 
 the first to overcome this reserve, and the 
 latter seemed to feel grateful for his kindness. 
 They had been as yet, however, but little in 
 each other's society, until Thaddeus was seized 
 with a severe illness, when Ivan attended 
 on him with fraternal care, ministering to all 
 his wants, and scarcely ever lea\dng his side. 
 
 From that period was to be dated their firm 
 fiiendship, which, though warm and sincere, 
 could not thaw the reserve with which Ivan 
 always guarded the subject of his family and 
 connexions ; and when any sought to question 
 him, he would turn away with a haughty and 
 angry air, so that even Thaddeus remained 
 
THE CIRCASSIAN CHIEF. 67 
 
 nearly as ignorant as before of his friend's 
 history. Every day, however, seemed more 
 closely to cement the friendship of the two young 
 men, until they were constantly together, sup- 
 porting each other on every occasion of need. On 
 one point, however, they were dissimilar in taste ; 
 while Thaddeus's love of gaiety caused him to 
 seek society, Ivan, on all occasions, shunned it, 
 devoting himself with so much perseverance and 
 energy to his studies and military exercises, that 
 he was quahfied to quit college at the same 
 period with his friend. 
 
 Ivan Galetzoff was generally supposed at col- 
 lege to be the son of the Baron Galetzoff; but 
 as the young man never spoke of him as his 
 father, and indeed avoided, as much as possible, 
 mentioning his name, there were some doubts 
 entertained on the subject ; and his proud and 
 retiring manners were, therefore, considered to 
 result from the gaUing feelings caused by a sup- 
 posed stigma on his birth. The chateau of the 
 Baron Galetzoff lay a short distance from Mos- 
 cow ; and in the neighbourhood of that city was 
 also the residence of the generous noble who had 
 been the protector of Thaddeus's father; but 
 there was no intercourse between the two families, 
 the Baron living entirely secluded from the world. 
 
68 THE CIRCASSIAN CHIEF. 
 
 The Baron Galetzoff was in truth, a fierce un- 
 polished soldier, who had frequently distinguished 
 himself in the wars of Russia against the Turks 
 and the inhabitants of the Caucasus, as much 
 by his unexampled cmelty, as by his bravery 
 and military talents. 
 
 To his own soldiers he was overbearing and 
 tyrannical, and he seemed to enjoy inflicting bar- 
 barities on the miserable foes who fell into his 
 power ; wjiile to his dependants and the serfs on 
 his estates, he was morose and hard-hearted ; so 
 that none could love, and all feared and hated 
 him. His compeers disliked and shunned him, 
 while he, on liis part, seemed equally to disre- 
 gard their censure or applause. 
 
 He had now retired for some time past from 
 military command, and had since then immured 
 himself in his own chateau, within which the 
 stranger never obtained admittance. 
 
 When on several occasions Ivan had been 
 tempted by Thaddeus to leave its sombre halls, 
 and to mix in society, nothing could ever be 
 gleaned from him respecting the internal arrange- 
 ments of the family, notwithstanding all the 
 attempts which were made to discover the secrets 
 of the mansion. 
 
 Some of the more charitably disposed neigh- 
 
THE CIRCASSIAN CHIEF. 69 
 
 bours concluded that the Baron's temper had 
 been soui'ed by domestic affliction, as it was re- 
 ported that he had lost by sudden death a beau- 
 tiful wife, whom he tenderly loved, and her child, 
 which had mysteriously disappeared ; others 
 however declared, that his brow had always been 
 clouded by the same dark lines. 
 
 In spite of these various rumours, all concurred 
 in the opinion, that the generous qualities of the 
 young Ivan almost made amends for the Baron's 
 defects; but they deplored his fate in being obliged 
 to live with a person of so opposite a character. 
 The serfs on the estate loved him almost to 
 adoration, every one of whom was ready to 
 lay down his life in his service. 
 
 Ivan had ever regarded the Baron more with 
 fear and awe, than with those feelings of affection 
 and respect, which a son owes to a parent. 
 
 There was however, one inmate of the chateau, 
 on whom he lavished all the warmth and ten- 
 derness of a fond and affectionate heart. She 
 was the one bright star pure and lustrous, to- 
 wards which he gazed thi^ough the cloudy atmos- 
 phere of his existence. From his earliest days 
 he had remembered that lovely countenance 
 bending over him with a soft and enraptured 
 
70 THE CIRCASSIAN CHIEF. 
 
 gaze. Those bright eyes which looked lustreless 
 on others, on him always shed a benign and 
 soothing light. He had long ceased to call 
 her mother, for he had once done so in his 
 childish days, when with a deep drawn sigh, and 
 a gush of tears, she pressed him closer to her 
 bosom, and bade him never again to use that 
 name : the child could not however be taught 
 to call her by any other, and he would therefore 
 avoid all mention of her to any one. 
 
 She had moreover succeeded in teaching him to 
 refrain from paying her any attention or notice 
 when, by chance, they appeared together in the 
 Baron's presence, and the lady's greatest care 
 seemed to be to appear equally regardless of the 
 chUd. 
 
 How delightful was it, as a reward for this 
 apparent estrangement, to commune during 
 the Baron's absence, with her, when he would 
 listen to every word she uttered, and hear with 
 delight the soft music of her voice. Then would 
 she teach him a strange language, which none 
 other around them spoke, and they would con- 
 verse in it for hours together secure from interrup- 
 tion, until the child spoke it as fluently as Rus- 
 sian. He had never inquired, in what country 
 
THE CIRCASSIAN CHIEF. 71 
 
 the language he had learned was spoken, it 
 was sufficient for him to know, that it was given 
 to him by the being he most revered and loved, 
 and he cherished his knowledge as a sacred gift 
 which it would be profanation to impart to any- 
 other mortal. He always thought in that lan- 
 guage, and in it he always poured forth his soul 
 to the great Dispenser of good, for he looked 
 upon it as the language of adoration ; and as it 
 had become his medium of communication with 
 her he loved most on earth, he felt it as the 
 most fit to adore Him who reigns in Heaven. 
 
 Upon her he looked as upon a being with an 
 existence separate from and above aU the rest of 
 the world. In her presence, his thoughts be- 
 came more holy, his aspirations loftier ; his 
 breast would swell proudly, as she oft described to 
 him the noble deeds of gallant warriors fighting 
 for the liberty of their country, until he ardently 
 longed to emulate their actions ; and thus were 
 early implanted in his breast a sincere love of 
 liberty, and a hatred of despotism, with a con- 
 tempt of every danger which might beset him in 
 the pursuit of the fame he thirsted after. 
 
 These sentiments had lain almost dormant 
 within him, during the uneventfiil life which he 
 
72 THE CIRCASSIAN CHIEF. 
 
 had hitherto led, and it was only, when at college, 
 he was witness to any tyrannical act of his own 
 companions over their inferiors, that they burst 
 forth ; on such occasions he would always step 
 forward in aid of the weakest and injured 
 party. 
 
 He had so early been taught to conceal his 
 feelings and opinions within his own bosom, that 
 none of his companions were aware of their force 
 or tendency, and had the officers of the college 
 become acquainted with them, a decisive check 
 would have been given to his advancement. 
 
 As far back as his memoiy could carry him, 
 no event of importance had occurred to him : ere 
 he was sent to college his education had been 
 placed under the direction of a very worthy but 
 most unintellectual priest, who did not attempt to 
 give him more than the first general rudiments of 
 knowledge ; so that from an early age he was 
 accustomed to depend much on his own powers 
 to attain what he sought after. 
 
 At times the Baron seemed to take an interest 
 in his welfare, and in the progress of his studies, 
 but he was very uncertain and variable in his 
 behaviour towards the boy ; sometimes treating 
 him with the greatest severity, at others, with in- 
 
THE CIRCASSIAN CHIEF. 73 
 
 diligence ; but never with that kindness or 
 justice which wins the love and respect of 
 youth. 
 
 He would frequently summon him to attend 
 at the usual field sports of the country, in which 
 he soon learnt to excel ; but when the boy could 
 make his escape, he would prefer wandering by 
 himself in the woods with his gun, far more 
 occupied with his own contemplations, than in 
 the pursuit of game ; or at other times he would 
 urge his light skiff over the surface of a neigh- 
 bouring lake, then resting on his oars, would sit 
 gazing on the waters, his thoughts wandering 
 to regions far away. 
 
 When safe from the Baron's detection, he 
 would hasten to a rendezvous with his beautiful 
 guardian and friend, and spend hours of de- 
 lightful intercourse in her society. 
 
 Reclining at her feet, his recollection would 
 revert faintly and indistinctly to scenes of a far 
 distant, undefinable period, when he fancied he 
 could recall to memory a picture of the bright 
 and sunny mountains of a soft and genial c^ime 
 — a cottage on the green hill's side, in front a 
 clear and rapid stream, bounding from rod to 
 rock, and sparkling joyously on its way to ihe 
 
 VOL. I. E 
 
i4 THE CIRCASSIAN CHIEF. 
 
 blue distant sea beyond; the trees of varied 
 foliage wa\ing in the breeze, and gay-coloured 
 tiowers filling the air with sweet perfumes. 
 Then would appear, before the vision of his 
 mind, a figure of commanding stature, with 
 noble features, clad in glittering armour, who 
 oftimes had carried him in his arms. He re- 
 membered the very shape of his shield, and the 
 dazzling brightness of his sword, as it was 
 wielded before his eyes in the rays of the sun. 
 Then a confused tumult — the loud roar of can- 
 non — the rattle of musquetry — the clashing of 
 swords — ^red blood flowing around — the wild 
 shouts of men striving in deadly combat — the 
 shrieks of terror-stricken women — the anguish- 
 wrought gi'oans of the wounded and dying — 
 rushed across his recollection. 
 
 After those scenes, if such had ever been pre- 
 sented to his sight, the tablet of his memory, 
 for a lapse of time, remained a complete blank, 
 and his first clear remembrance was of the 
 Chateau of the Baron Galetzoff, when he found 
 himself loved and petted by its inmates, and 
 even treated by its haughty Lord with as much 
 Idndness as his capricious nature would allow, 
 and with much more than he seemed to bestow 
 on any other human being. 
 
THE CIRCASSIAN CHIEF. 75 
 
 Once only had Ivan mentioned the obscure 
 recollection of his infant years to his fair pro- 
 tectress, but she had, in a passionate flood of 
 tears, charged him, as he valued her love and 
 happiness, never to allude to the subject again. 
 
 With advancing years, the visions faded 
 gradually from his mind, or if he thought of 
 them, he considered them but as a dream of 
 childhood, and believed himself in reality to be 
 the son of the tyrannical Baron Galetzoff. 
 
 E 2 
 
76 THE CIRCASSIAN CHIEF. 
 
 CHAPTER V. 
 
 Could I but get 
 
 Within my sword's length of him, and if then 
 He 'scape me, may th' account of all his sins 
 Be added unto mine ! 
 
 BEAUMONT AND FLETCHER. 
 
 We left the serf Karl urging on the weary 
 animal which drew his master's baggage-cart 
 towards Tver, and there he arrived without any 
 other accident than a thorough drenching from 
 the same storm which they had escaped under 
 shelter of the Gipsy's tent. He proceeded 
 straightway to the best inn the town possessed, 
 which w^as kept by one of the despised race 
 of Israel, w^ho are the principal inn-keepers 
 throughout the country. The inn in question 
 was very inferior to those houses of entertain- 
 ment vrhich most of the larger cities of Russia 
 now afford ; but rapid improvements in all the 
 conveniences for travelling have lately taken place. 
 
THE CIRCASSIAN CHIEF. 77 
 
 The lower floor of the house consisted of two 
 divisions ; the one appropriated to the horses 
 and equipages of travellers, the other to the 
 culinary department of the establishment, as also 
 to the accommodation — at that precise moment 
 — of a motley assemblage of human beings, 
 soldiers, mechanics, carriers, wagoners, postil- 
 lions, all talking at the same time in their gut- 
 tural language ; smoking, drinking, and hallow- 
 ing to each other, with loud laughter and jokes ; 
 yet the ear was never shocked by the profane 
 oath, or other evidences of the fierce quarrels, 
 which too often occur amongst a mixture of 
 people of similar degree in other countries. 
 
 The upper part of the building was laid out 
 in rooms for the accommodation of the better 
 order of travellers. One of larger dimensions 
 than the rest formed the dining-room — this w^as 
 completely impregnated with the fumes of 
 tobacco ; the rest consisted of sleeping apart- 
 ments. 
 
 As Karl drove into the court-yard, he seemed 
 to have roused himself to a sense of his own 
 importance, and the responsibility with which 
 he was entrusted, for he endeavoured to assume 
 an air of authority. " Help, here ! help !" he 
 exclaimed as the wheels of his cart rattled over 
 
>? 
 
 8 THE CIRCASSIAN CHIEF. 
 
 the stones, " help here, to carry the baggage of 
 my noble masters up-stairs ! Does no one 
 come ? Help here, help, halloo !" 
 
 His calls for assistance were at last heeded 
 by a being very similar to himself in dress and 
 features. " Halloo, villain !" cried Karl, as the 
 man approached, " can you not hear when a 
 Christian calls ? Here, help me to carry this 
 baggage, will you ?" 
 
 " Who art thou that speakest thus to me ?" 
 demanded the other ; " art thou better than I 
 am myself, knave? Art thou not a slave as 
 weU as I ?" 
 
 " Ay, ay, truly," answered Karl, " but I serve 
 a noble master, whilst thou art but the slave of 
 a base-born Hebrew inn-keeper !" 
 
 " There thou liest !" exclaimed the indignant 
 ostler, for such was his office. " I serve the inn- 
 keeper tiTily, and if he did not oblige me to 
 observe his fasts, as w^ell as those of our own 
 holy church, the service would not be so bad ; 
 but I am no slave of his. I am the born serf 
 of the noble Baron Ogstrofsty ; he has let 
 me out for hire, to the old Jew Levi, to pay off 
 an old score, and when I have worked it out, I* 
 shall return to my own master." 
 
 " That alters the case," replied Karl, rubbing 
 
THE CIRCASSIAN CHIEF. 7^ 
 
 his forehead, that he might more clearly under- 
 stand the knotty difference, " so now let us be 
 friends, and lend me your aid." 
 
 " With all my heart, now that thou art civil," 
 said the ostler. 
 
 Suiting the action to the word, after fasten- 
 ing the horse's bridle to a ring in the wall, 
 he assisted in taking the luggage from the cart, 
 and led the way up a rude flight of steps, on 
 the landing of which they were met by the land- 
 lord Levi, who had been eagerly looking out, 
 in the hope of making considerable gain by 
 his new guests. 
 
 "My noble master, the son of the Baron 
 Galetzoff, and my noble master's friend, sent me 
 on before them to announce their coming, and 
 to engage beds and supper. They will be here 
 anon, so make ready for their reception : their 
 baggage must be placed in their room that 1 
 may unpack it, for they will be rather wet, 
 I fancy, when they arrive." 
 
 "Your noble masters shall be well served," 
 answered Levi, bowing rather to the young 
 nobles' portmanteaus, than to the bearer of 
 them. " This way, this way !" 
 
 And he conducted Karl into a room, boasting 
 
80 THE CIRCASSIAN CHIEF. 
 
 of but little comfort. To him, however, it ap- 
 peared a luxurious apartment, and he imme- 
 diately commenced unpacking the luggage. 
 That done, he locked the door, and descended 
 with his fellow-serf to look after his horse, and 
 to attend to his own creature comforts. 
 
 Seating himself at the long table in the com- 
 mon eating-room, among the strange variety of 
 guests, he applied himself with unwearied 
 energy to the business of mastication, washing 
 down his food wdth deep draughts of quass; 
 and so completely was he engaged in this, to 
 him, most grateful occupation, that he paid but 
 little attention to what was going on around 
 him. 
 
 When his appetite was at length thoroughly 
 satisfied, he pushed the empty dish from before 
 him, with a sigh, and took another long and 
 steady draught from the jug of quass. He then 
 resigned himself to the enjoyment of his sensa- 
 tions of satisfaction, when his eye-lids began to 
 fall ; re-opening slightly, they closed again, his 
 head nodded for a minute, when he shook it to 
 rouse himself, but it soon again fell slowly down, 
 and he dropped fast asleep, resting his arms 
 and shoulders on the table. 
 
THE CIRCASSIAN CHIEF. 81 
 
 Some time had elapsed, when he was aroused 
 by the entrance of two men, who seated them- 
 selves close to him, one of them pushing rudely 
 against him as he took his seat at the table. 
 The movement made Karl raise his head, and 
 seeing two serving men in the liveries appa- 
 rently of a nobleman, he endeavoured, for the 
 sake of good fellowship, to join in their conver- 
 sation ; but he found it impossible to sustain his 
 head without the support of the table. He 
 listened, however, for some time to what they 
 were saying, till their words grew indistinct and 
 meaningless to his comprehension, and Karl 
 sunk again into sleep. 
 
 " WeU," said one of the new-comers, " this is 
 a pretty business weVe been engaged in. Fii\st, 
 the certainty of being knocked on the head by 
 the Gipsies, had they caught us, of which there 
 was every risk ; then, the very clear reality of 
 finding ourselves knocked down by two wild 
 horsemen, who seemed to have risen out of the 
 forest, for no other pm^pose than to interfere 
 where they had no business ; and then, because 
 we could not prevent their getting up to the 
 Count, when we did our best, to be rewarded 
 
 E 3 
 
82 THE CIRCASSIAN CHIEF. 
 
 with a thrashing and a load of abuse ; and 
 finally, to be sent, with our broken heads, 
 scampering across the country to look after 
 these gentlemen. And after all, what is the 
 cause of all this fuss ? — a woman — a girl — a 
 piece of painted flesh ! a baggage, no better than 
 those who go singing about the streets of Mos- 
 cow. So coy and modest too! Why the 
 Count is mad to make such a disturbance about 
 her. It makes me thirsty to think of it — hand 
 the quass, Kruntz." 
 
 " You may well say that," answered his com- 
 panion, " for I never saw oui' master in such a 
 taking before. He swears he will have deadly 
 vengeance against those who prevented him 
 from carrying ofl^ the girl ; and he says that he 
 should know them again, whether he met them 
 in this world or the next. I don't think he has 
 much chance of meeting them in a better place, 
 do you, Groff ?" 
 
 " No, no," answered the first speaker ; " our 
 master has played too many odd tricks on earth 
 for that. He may know them, perhaps, for he 
 had time to see their faces ; but it is too hard 
 of him to expect that we should ; for I 
 
THE CIRCASSIAN CHIEF. 83 
 
 could have sworn, when they came so suddenly 
 upon us, that they were the wild horsemen of 
 the woods." 
 
 " They may be devils themselves, and still not 
 escape our master's vengeance," replied Kruntz ; 
 " and, as for the girl, he will entrap her before 
 long, or he will not act like himself. If he can- 
 not do it by open force, he has numerous secret 
 means to bring about his ends." 
 
 " That m be sworn he has," said the other ; 
 " and so long as he pays me well, I am ready to 
 serve him, though I do not much relish so hard 
 a ride as he sent us, in a storm, on a fool's 
 en-and. Yet if I could find out who the two 
 young gallants were, who gave us such con- 
 foundedly hard blows, I should like to see how 
 they felt \mder like treatment. Some more 
 vodka, Kruntz, that's the stuff; now for our 
 pipes. Drown care first, and then smoke him 
 dry, and he won't trouble you ; that's the way 
 for honest men like us to live." 
 
 These two worthies, after enjoying their tobacco, 
 left the room. They wiU be easily recognised 
 as the myrmidons of the Count ErintorfF, sent 
 forward in great haste by their master, to trace 
 the horsemen, who had arrested him in his 
 
84 THE CIRCASSIAN CHIEF. 
 
 flight with the Gipsy maid- — a circumstance the 
 more imbittering to his pride, after his success in 
 securing her person. He had also dispatched 
 others in an opposite direction, with the same orders. 
 Karl at length awoke to find that the shades 
 of evening had already enveloped the town in 
 obscurity; and he rushed out in great dismay, 
 at having overslept himself, to endeavour to gain 
 some tidings of his young master and his fi'iend; 
 but in vain — he could hear nothing of them. 
 The honest fellow now became greatly alarmed, 
 maldng inquiries of every body he met, till 
 finding that his master had certainly not 
 yet arrived in Tver, he lay down, to await 
 his coming, on one of the wooden benches 
 in the eating room, when he very soon again 
 fell into a sleep — not the less sound from his 
 deep potations of quass — and did not awake till 
 long after the morning had dawned, and the 
 inmates of the hotel were astir. He started up, 
 rubbing his eyes, and looking around to con- 
 vince himself where he was ; when recollecting 
 the events of the previous day, he instantly set 
 off to gain intelligence of his master. With 
 eager agitation, he questioned all who came in 
 his way, high and low; but most people pushed 
 
THE CIRCASSIAN CHIEF. 85 
 
 the lowly unshorn serf aside, without deigning to 
 answer him; some ridiculed him, and bade him 
 seek a new master, if he had lost his old one, for 
 he would never find him again. Among those 
 whom he had casvially addressed, was one of the 
 two individuals, whose conversation he had partly 
 overheard when sitting by his side on the pre- 
 vious evening. 
 
 " You are inquiring for your master and his 
 friend," asked Groff ; " two young men, you say, 
 whom you parted from about twenty versts 
 off; as they rode by themselves through the 
 forest." By thus interrogating the honest, but 
 simple Karl, he learned every particular he 
 sought to know respecting Ivan GaletzofF and 
 his companion. 
 
 Poor Karl spent the long day in great tribu- 
 lation, walking to and fro in front of the inn, in- 
 quiring of everybody who arrived from the di- 
 rection of St. Petersburg, if they had overtaken 
 his master and fellow traveller; but obtaining no 
 intelligence, he proceeded along the road for 
 some miles in the hope of meeting them; again 
 unsuccessful, he returned in case they should 
 have passed by some other way. Towards 
 
86 THE CIRCASSIAN CHIEF. 
 
 evening, when he perceived the lost cavaliers 
 approaching, his joy knew no bounds. 
 
 Running to meet them, and ere they had time 
 to dismount, he seized their hands and covered 
 them with kisses. He gave their horses in 
 charge to the ostler, and conducted them to 
 their room, where they were glad to rest, after 
 the excitement and fatigues of the preceding day. 
 
 Their arrival had been observed by others 
 with equal satisfaction to that felt by honest 
 Karl, though arising from very dissimilar mo- 
 tives. Groff and his companion concealed with- 
 in a door-way, watched them as they dismounted, 
 and being fully satisfied of their identity, both 
 from Karl's description, and their own recollection 
 of the wild horsemen, by whom they had been 
 felled in the forest, they immediately mounted their 
 horses to convey their information to the Count. 
 
 Ivan felt but little inconvenience from his 
 wound; the aged Hagar having treated it so 
 efficaciously. He was, therefore, enabled to 
 continue on the journey to Moscow, early the 
 next morning; notwithstanding the numerous 
 eloquent reasons urged by their considerate land- 
 lord, to persuade them to delay it. 
 
THE CIRCASSIAN CHIEF, 87 
 
 They crossed the magnificent Volga, by a 
 bridge of boats. This mighty current rushing 
 onward in its course, divides Europe from Asia; it 
 is navigable well nigh to its very source — a dis- 
 tance of four thousand miles ; and after bathing 
 the walls of Astracan, finishes its career in the 
 far distant Caspian. Its banks are peopled 
 by the warlike tribes of Cossacks, who so un- 
 relentingly harassed the skirts of the French 
 army, during their disastrous retreat from Russia. 
 On its noble waters were being transported rich 
 cargoes of grain, the produce of its fertile banks, 
 in boats of various sizes, rigged with a single 
 but lofty mast, supporting an immense sail, and 
 a long rudder, projecting far beyond the stern, 
 which is admirably adapted to guide them, when 
 passing the rapids. 
 
 The villages through which the travellers' 
 route lay, were forlorn and miserable; being 
 generally the property of the Seigneurs, and 
 occupied by their serfs. They consisted of a 
 single long street, lined on either side with cot- 
 tages built of rough logs: those of the more 
 affluent being formed of the same materials, 
 hewn and squared into more regular shape. 
 
88 THE CIRCASSIAN CHIEF. 
 
 Their gable ends projecting far into the street, 
 discovered occasionally patches of rude carving; 
 small holes perforated in the walls serving as 
 windows. 
 
 In many spots along the road, were small 
 chapels with pictures of the Panagia (the Russian 
 appellation of the Virgin Mary,) or of some of 
 the multitudinous saints in their calendar; these 
 were the especial objects of Karl's devotion, as 
 he bowed his head to them, and crossed himself 
 all over with the greatest reverence. They over- 
 took many teams of small carts, sometimes forty 
 together; carrying tallow, hides, and hemp to 
 the cities, to be exchanged for merchandise, 
 with which they return to the interior : their 
 drivers were generally lying asleep on their goods, 
 one alone at the head of the train, conducting 
 the team. As evening closed in, they halted, 
 forming bivouacs by the way-side, and their 
 cheering fires served as beacons for the wayfarer. 
 
 Although but a few years have glided by, 
 since the period to which we aEude, great 
 changes have taken place on the highway be- 
 tween St. Petersburg and Moscow. Not only 
 has the road been macadamized, and become 
 
THE CIRCASSIAN CHIEF. 89 
 
 one of the best in Europe, but elegant bridges 
 have been thrown across the rivers and streams ; 
 handsome, well-conducted post-houses have been 
 established on the road, and public conveyances 
 traverse it regularly. 
 
 It was towards the evening of the second day 
 of their departure from Tver, that they ap- 
 proached the Phoenix-like, the resuscitated, holy, 
 and ancient city of Moscow. 
 
 The rays of the setting sun shed a glittering 
 lustre on the innumerable gilded domes, steeples 
 and spires, of its churches, shooting upwards 
 from amid the dark masses of habitations, like 
 trees of gold in a forest of enchantment. Each 
 tower being sui'mounted by the emblem of Chris- 
 tian faith, resplendent with gold, and connected 
 by golden chains, which shone more brightly 
 as thev waved in the breeze. 
 
 This gorgeous scene breaking suddenly on 
 their sight, arrested their progress; the stately 
 city, extending over a wide space of undulating 
 ground, encompassed by woody and cultivated 
 heights — the hundred-crested Kremlin rising 
 majestically above all — the magnificent palaces, 
 churches, and convents, with their cupolas and 
 domes of blue, and white, and gold, gi\ing it an 
 aspect of oriental magnificence. 
 
90 THE CIRCASSIAN CHIEF. 
 
 Karl, animated by a spirit of devotion, threw 
 himself from the cart, and prostrated himself on 
 the soil, in adoration, as he beheld the Jerusa- 
 lem of Russia — the city sanctified in their 
 hearts, and so beloved by every true Muscovite. 
 Ha\dng completed the ceremony, with innume- 
 rable genuflexions and crossings, much to his 
 own satisfaction, he drove on to regain his mas- 
 ter and Thaddeus, who not being imbued with 
 the same feeling of respect for the City of the 
 Czars, and ha\dng often viewed the spectacle, 
 had, after a slight pause at the grandeur of the 
 scene, proceeded on their road. 
 
 After traversing many of the irregular, wind- 
 ing streets of the city, the moment arrived when 
 they were to part, to hasten to their respective 
 homes. Exchanging pledges to meet again as 
 soon as circumstances would permit, they then 
 started off in opposite directions. 
 
THE CIRCASSIAN CHIEF. 91 
 
 CHAPTER VI. 
 
 None e'er knew the name of that heart- stricken lady, 
 Her language though sweet, none could e'er understand ; 
 But her features so sunn'd, and her eyelash so shady. 
 Bespoke her a child of some far eastern land. 
 
 MOORE. 
 
 Missing the society of his lively companion, 
 a shade of gloom overspread the handsome fea- 
 tures of Ivan; his mind being thus thrown 
 back upon itself, the sombre scenery through 
 which he passed, as he drew nigh to the end of 
 his journey, on the day after he quitted his 
 friend, contributed to augment the melancholy 
 bias of his thoughts. 
 
 On either side of his path arose a thick and 
 dark wood, without a single opening ^dsta, or a 
 green glade ; every part seemed impenetrable to 
 joy and gladness. The habitations of the mise- 
 rable and oppressed serfs were closed ; their 
 
92 THE CIRCASSIAN CHIEF. 
 
 inmates having early retii'ed to rest, after the 
 ill-requited toils of the day. 
 
 Occasionally, however, he fell in with labour- 
 ers returning to their homes, who, as they recog- 
 nized the son of their seigneur, saluted him with 
 respect and a look of affection. In an in- 
 stant, the cloud on his brow would be dissipated 
 as he returned their greetings, and offered a 
 kind word to each, either in inquiries after their 
 families, or other good-natured remarks, by 
 which the unsophisticated peasant's heart is so 
 easily gained. 
 
 On approaching the chateau, even such signs 
 of life as had previously appeared ceased to 
 exist, and all around wore, if possible, a still 
 more gloomy and dreary aspect. 
 
 He unconsciously shortened his rein ; that 
 action sufficed to betray that he could not 
 regard the Baron in the light of a father. So far 
 from having an anxious desire to hasten to re- 
 ceive his welcome, his languid pace proved his re- 
 luctance to enter sooner than necessary into the 
 presence of the fierce lord of that dark domain. 
 His heart was a blank as he drew up at the 
 principal entrance. 
 
 No group of bustling and pleased domestics 
 
THE CIRCASSIAN CHIEF. 93 
 
 stood ready to receive him on his return, after a 
 long absence ; no fond mother or affectionate 
 sisters, to rush forward with outstretched arms, 
 to welcome him in a loving embrace, or to sur- 
 round him as they gazed with eager and de- 
 lighted eyes, their repeated inquiries lost amid 
 the confusion of anxious tongues. All within 
 was as silent as without, a solitarv household 
 serf alone presenting himself at Ivan's summons ; 
 while, after considerable delay, another of the 
 same class appeared, to lead his horse to the 
 stables ; both, however, greeted him with wel- 
 come smiles. 
 
 His heart now beat with eagerness to 
 hasten to the presence of the revered and 
 much loved being so mysteriously connected 
 with him, for well he knew how anx- 
 iously she was awaiting his arrival. At the same 
 time, a feeling of dread came over him, of 
 misfortune having befallen her; she might be 
 on her death-bed, perhaps — horrible thought ! — 
 extended a cold and lifeless corpse ! Lost to 
 him for ever, and her important secret known 
 to none but her God ! 
 
 This idea became almost insupportable. He 
 dared not make any inquiries respecting her of 
 
94 THE CIRCASSIAN CHIEF. 
 
 the domestic. To visit her, ere he had ap- 
 peared to the Baron, who he was informed had 
 desired his presence immediately on his arrival, 
 would have been attended by results equally in- 
 jurious to her as to himself. 
 
 Without delay, therefore, he was ushered 
 into the apartment where the Baron was sitting, 
 who neither rose as the young man advanced to 
 pay his respects, or relaxed the cold stern cast of 
 his features. 
 
 The Baron Galetzoff seemed a man long past 
 the prime of life, on whom age had laid its 
 wintry marks, but still retaining the air and firm 
 port of a soldier. His stature was rather under 
 than above the middle height, and his figure full 
 and unwieldy. His features might have been 
 handsome in his youth, though now they 
 were disfigured by an habitual scowl on his 
 forehead, and a deep cut reaching from the left 
 eye to the lower part of the ear ; his cold grey 
 sunken eyes retreating, as if from observation, 
 under the shade of his coarse overhanging 
 brows. His grizzled moustache was long and 
 untrimmed ; and this, w^hen excited by passion — 
 no uncommon occurrence, unfortunately for his 
 dependants — or labouring under uncertainty as 
 
THE CIRCASSIAN CHIEF. 95 
 
 to the success of his projects, he was wont to 
 twist and pluck at. 
 
 " So, Sir," he exclaimed, in a tone of severity, 
 as Ivan approached the table, " you have loitered 
 on your way, methinks ; else why this delay in 
 your arrival ? Your duty and obedience would 
 have been better proved by a more rapid journey. 
 How did it thus happen, Sir ?" 
 
 Ivan explained that the delay arose from a 
 violent storm, which had obliged him to take 
 shelter under the tent of a Gipsy ; but he did 
 not choose to hazard a relation of the rest of his 
 adventures. 
 
 The Baron's brow lowered as he resumed, 
 
 " And is this. Sir, the bent of your disposi- 
 tion to herd with outcasts, and the vilest of the 
 earth ? A race I detest and abhor ; and strong 
 enough are my reasons. Rather would I have 
 bared my head to the fiercest storm the heavens 
 ever sent forth, than to have been beholden to 
 such wretches for a dry crust, or the covering of 
 their miserable tents." 
 
 "The people you speak of, Sir," answered 
 Ivan, " I found as kind and hospitable in theii' 
 humble way, as any of a higher rank ; and I 
 received much attention from them." 
 
96 THE CIRCASSIAN CHIEF. 
 
 The Baron here rose from his seat, and took 
 several turns across the apartment ; then sud- 
 denly addi'essing himself to Ivan, exclaimed, 
 
 " Talk not to me of receiving kindness at the 
 hands of such ignominious beings as those cursed 
 Gipsies. I loathe their very name ! Is this the 
 return you render me, degenerate youth, for the 
 care and attention I have lavished on your in- 
 fancy and education ? Though how could I 
 have expected ought else ? Yet I thought you 
 possessed more proper pride than to have thus 
 demeaned yourself. Learn, however, henceforth 
 to pay more respect to my honour and dignity, 
 though you may be careless of your own ; and 
 remember, the name you bear must not, and 
 shall not, be disgraced by associating with the 
 base and worthless.'' 
 
 Ivan remained mute during this tirade, for 
 he saw that the Baron required an object to 
 vent his spleen upon, and he willingly offered his 
 own shoulders, to screen some victim less able to 
 bear it. 
 
 The haughty noble had thus worked himself 
 into a state of passionate excitement, as undig- 
 nified as it was causeless, and continued pacing 
 the floor with hasty steps, while the young man 
 
THE CIRCASSIAN CHIEF. 97 
 
 stood silently by, waiting its result, knowing 
 that his withdrawal from the scene would but 
 increase the Baron's anger. 
 
 After the lapse of a few minutes, this fit of 
 rage seemed to have subsided, as turning towards 
 Ivan, he said, 
 
 "Young man, let me never hear again of 
 so discreditable an occurrence. And now listen 
 to the reasons which induced me to recall you. 
 I have been appointed by our gracious Emperor 
 to high command in his armies destined for 
 foreign service ; and I intend that you shall ac- 
 company me to learn the art of war by practical 
 experience, as you have hitherto done in theory. 
 Before you, now opens a path which will lead 
 you to honour and renown ; and it rests with 
 yourself to enter it or not. If you follow it, and 
 I find you worthy, it then wiU be my care to 
 advance you rapidly. But mark me ! I demand 
 from you implicit obedience ; that rendered, rank 
 and fortune shall be yours — ^if not, beware !" 
 
 Ivan's heart beat high at this information, 
 though conveyed in harsh and uncourteous 
 words; but he ardently sought to enter at once 
 into the exciting scenes of active life, and his 
 eye brightened as he expressed his readiness to 
 
 VOL. I. F 
 
98 THE CIRCASSIAN CHIEF. 
 
 comply with the Baron's wishes, and thanked 
 him for the solicitude he professed for his wel- 
 fare. 
 
 ''My intention," continued the Baron, "is, 
 that you should \dsit Moscow in a few days, to 
 procure your military equipments, and to mix 
 somewhat in society; for though, I myself detest 
 its ceremonies and triviahties, I wish you to 
 gain the advantages its lessons aiford, ere you 
 enter into the more active and stirring scenes of 
 life. You may now retire to rest after your 
 journey, and to-morrow, I will impart my other 
 projects." 
 
 His listener, having expressed the gratitude 
 he really felt at the prospects held out to him, 
 gladly retired from the presence of his capricious 
 father. 
 
 The above conversation, so characteristic of 
 the Baron's usual deportment towards his son, 
 was httle calculated to \Nin either his respect or 
 his love: indeed, his conduct altogether seemed 
 inexplicable; for while he had spared neither 
 care, nor expense in his education, he had evi- 
 dently no affection for him; and had on every 
 occasion tried his utmost, to imbue him with 
 his own fierce and savage disposition: in the 
 
THE CIRCASSIAN CHIEF. 99 
 
 latter, however, he had signally failed, through 
 an agency he little suspected. The young man, 
 meanwhile, profited by the great advantages 
 offered by a good education, and grew up endued 
 with extraordinary firmness and courage. 
 
 Ivan had retired to his chamber for the night, 
 after endeavouring in vain to obtain some com- 
 munication with the lady before alluded to, as a 
 mysterious inmate of the chateau ; when, as he 
 was reclining in a chair, and gazing through the 
 window on the dark groves which surrounded the 
 building, he was startled by a knock at 
 his door. Hastening to open it, a person pre- 
 sented himself, of unusual and remarkable ap- 
 pearance. 
 
 He was one of those extraordinary produc- 
 tions of nature, possessing a figure of just pro- 
 portions, though in stature he was scarcely three 
 feet high. His dress was arranged with extreme 
 neatness and care, but of a fantastic cut; and the 
 little man seemed to delight in the most gaudy 
 colours. His feathered hat was placed with a 
 rakish air on one side of his head, from which 
 fiowed a profusion of curling locks. His whiskers 
 were also curled with the greatest care, while his 
 
 F 2 
 
100 THE CIRCASSIAN CHIEF. 
 
 long thin moustaches rose fiercely upward, in 
 imitation of heroes of larger size. 
 
 It was difficult to define the expression of his 
 diminutive, but very regular features, which 
 would have been considered handsome in a larger 
 mould. Age had spared him not, for already 
 wiinkles furrowed his cheeks, which were of a 
 shallow, parchment-like hue. His small grey eyes 
 still bright and twinkling, expressed talent, and 
 cunning; there was a restlessness too in his look 
 and manner — each movement he made being 
 quick, but uncertain. He would first cast a 
 hurried glance at the person he was speaking 
 to; next on the ground, then suddenly over his 
 shoulder, as if he expected an attack from be- 
 hind; and presently he would spin his little body 
 round on one leg, ere he recommenced the sub- 
 ject he had abruptly discontinued. When he 
 spoke, the tone of his voice was so shrill and 
 loud, that those who heard it, could scarcely 
 believe that the sound proceeded from so dimi- 
 nutive a creature. 
 
 As this lilliputian-like figui'e entered the room, 
 he opened his arms to their full extent to em- 
 brace Ivan, who kindly stooped to the requisite 
 
THE CIRCASSIAN CHIEF. 101 
 
 level to meet him, for otherwise the little per- 
 sonage, who seemed unconscious of his own size, 
 would have been unable to clasp more than one 
 of his friend's knees. 
 
 "My friend, my dear boyl" exclaimed the 
 dwarf, " my heart beats with pleasiu-e to see 
 you back again. You are grown, Ivan, since I 
 saw you last, for we could then walk arm in 
 arm; and now, I doubt if we could do so with 
 perfect ease. I have been longing to have you 
 here again, for I knew not what to do without 
 you. I could neither ride, hunt, or shoot with any 
 satisfaction during your absence; but now we 
 will recommence our former amusements." 
 
 " I am truly glad to see you, my worthy friend 
 Ladislau," answered Ivan, " and to find you as 
 vivacious and active as ever; but there is one I 
 would inquire after; my kind protectress — my 
 most beloved friend — tell me, Ladislau, how is 
 she ? of no one else have I been able to learn, 
 nor as you w^eU know, dared I to seek the 
 information, my heart yearned after, though 
 my thoughts have been filled with sad fore- 
 bodings." 
 
 " My young friend," replied Ladislau, " she is 
 well, and is anxiously waiting to see you; but 
 
102 THE CIRCASSIAN CHIEF. 
 
 the mighty man, the great Baron, has been 
 treating her more severely than ever, and will 
 not allow her to proceed beyond the walls of the 
 garden. One of these days his cruelty will meet 
 \vdth its due reward!" 
 
 "Alas!" said Ivan, "that I should not have 
 the power to rescue that angelic being from his 
 tyranny! She herself forbids me to interfere. 
 Tell me, my dear Ladislau, when shall I find an 
 opportunity of seeing her?" 
 
 " I cannot now say," answered the dwarf. " I 
 will, however, contrive the matter for you, whilst 
 the Baron is from home, and the meeting will 
 contribute greatly to the lady's cure. Ha! hal 
 ha! I am laughing at the idea that those, whom 
 the mighty tyrant despises, can so outwit him; 
 aye, and revenge themselves too, in a way he 
 little dreams of. The day will come, when he 
 shall learn that the being he has kept to laugh 
 and jeer at, has a soul with passions strong as his 
 own, and who has known how to revenge him- 
 self for all the injuries and insults heaped on 
 him for so many years. But away with such 
 thoughts : now that you are returned, Ivan ! plea- 
 sure must be our sole study, and I owe you my 
 utmost services, for you were ever kind and at- 
 
THE CIRCASSIAN CHIEF. 103 
 
 tentive, while others scorned me, although they 
 laughed at what they termed my antic tricks. I 
 am grateful, Ivan, and I will prove it; for though 
 I can be a bitter and implacable hater, I can also 
 be a firm and true friend." 
 
 " In your love, I have always trusted, my good 
 Ladislau, though what I may have done is not 
 worthy of mention; and you amply repay me by 
 your services, and constant readiness to follow 
 my wishes." 
 
 " Well, well, we wiU not discuss that matter 
 now;" said Ladislau, "but tell me, Ivan, how 
 came it, that you did not arrive yesterday? I 
 was looking out for you the whole day ! " 
 
 Ivan gave him an account of his adventure, 
 in rescuing the Gipsy maid Azila, and of his 
 visit to the tents of her tribe, to which the 
 dwarf listened attentively. 
 
 " You acted rightly," said he, as Ivan con- 
 cluded; " and you may some future day be richly 
 rewarded. Is she not beautiful, and endowed with 
 talent, and far superior to the life she leads?" 
 
 " If you allude to Azila," replied Ivan, " she 
 is both; but how happens it, that you are ac- 
 quainted with these Gipsies? 
 
 " Ha! ha! ha!" chuckled the dwarf, " that's a 
 
104 THE CIRCASSIAN CHIEF. 
 
 long story, my dear boy, and I cannot teU it you 
 now, though I may some day. You have much to 
 learn — many deep secrets — of which my bosom 
 is the depositary; ha! ha! those who despise 
 me, little know the power I possess! There is 
 one, who w^ould give half he is worth, to know a 
 secret which is safely locked up in my breast, and 
 he would not scruple to tear it open, if he knew 
 that it was there! Ha! ha! ha!" and the dwarf 
 laughed shriUy, as he triumphed in this consci- 
 ousness of his own power, and of the revenge he 
 was taking on those by whom he considered 
 himself injured. 
 
 " Now to you, Ivan," he continued, " who in- 
 dulge in no idle curiosity, and treat me so kindly, 
 I will some day, when the fit moment arrives, 
 disclose the treasured secret." 
 
 "You are one of the first of the few 
 persons I remember ever since my childhood," 
 answered Ivan, " and I act towards you as I feel — 
 with sincere regard. But tell me, Ladislau, what 
 is there remarkable, or unusual, with respect to 
 the Gipsy's daughter, besides her beauty, which I 
 can judge of, and her talents which I suppose do 
 not extend beyond her sweet singing, and a 
 clever tact in turning her pretended knowledge 
 of palmistry to account." 
 
THE CIRCASSIAN CHIEF. 105 
 
 " Ah, you little see into her character, if you 
 imagine that she practises any of the vulgar 
 deceits of her tribe," answered the dwarf. " She 
 is above every act of that kind. Her heart is 
 with her people, and she delights in their wild 
 life ; yet she might, if it so pleased her, dwell in 
 cities, and enjoy aU the luxuries others value so 
 highly. Her education has not been neglected, 
 while her talents are of the highest order, her 
 judgment superior, and her virtue unquestionable; 
 these high endowments she employs for her 
 noble ends. She might have been far different 
 from what she i^ — enjoying rank, riches and 
 power ; but then too probably, alas ! she might 
 have been proud, vicious and ignorant. I love 
 her much, but would not have her different to 
 what she is, though on some future day, it may 
 be said that I have injured her; but I know 
 better. I am saying, perhaps, more than is 
 prudent; I can, however, trust you, Ivan, and I 
 beseech you, utter not a syllable of what you 
 have heard, as you love me." 
 
 " Your confidence shall not be abused," an- 
 swered Ivan. 
 
 "Fare thee well, fare thee well! I must now 
 
 F 3 
 
106 THE CIRCASSIAN CHIEF. 
 
 away, my young friend ;" quickly cried the little 
 man, as whisking round on one foot, waving his 
 hand, and singing his adieus, he skipped out of 
 the room. 
 
 As long back as Ivan could recollect, he had 
 always been on terms of perfect friendship with 
 the dwarf Ladislau; but never since his earliest 
 infancy had he observed the slightest alteration 
 in his appearance. At that early age, he used to 
 romp and play with him; and as he grew older 
 and stronger, with a consideration which few 
 boys would have possessed, he never exerted his 
 power and strength to his annoyance, so that the 
 diminutive creature cherished a feeling of at- 
 tachment for him, stronger than for any other 
 human being; while Ivan, having but few to 
 expend his affections upon, returned his regard 
 with equal sincerity. 
 
 It is still the custom in many of the wealthy 
 and noble families, both of Russia and Poland, 
 to retain in their establishments, one of the race 
 of dwarfs, to amuse their children and depen- 
 dants, and as a butt for their own wit. As 
 in former days, a jester, a fool, or a dwarf was 
 considered a necessaiy appendage to the 
 
THE CIRCASSIAN CHIEF. 107 
 
 household of every nohle throughout Europe, 
 though that custom is now fortunately ba- 
 nished to the less civilized countries of the 
 eastern part of the continent, where education 
 has made but slow advances. 
 
 As soon as the dwarf had retired, Ivan threw 
 himself on his couch ; but it was long, ere the 
 repose he sought, drew a veil over his confused 
 and agitated thoughts. 
 
108 THE CIRCASSIAN CHIEF. 
 
 CHAPTER VII. 
 
 He's no noble, maugre lineage 
 Who doth chivalry despite. 
 He who layeth hands on woman, 
 Is a villain, and no knight. 
 
 THE CID. 
 
 Ivan had obtained but few and brief oppor- 
 tunities of meeting the lady who resided at the 
 chateau, and whose history was so totally un- 
 known to the world. The Baron constantly re- 
 quired his attendance, and narrowly watched her 
 actions. 
 
 Some days had elapsed since Ivan's arrival, 
 during which time he had invariably accom- 
 panied the Baron in his hunting expeditions, the 
 latter having determined to clear his forests of 
 the wolves which infested them. On the next 
 of these expeditions, he determined to find some 
 expedient for absenting himself, so as to be able 
 
THE CIRCASSIAN CHIEF. 109 
 
 to obtain the long-sought intemew with his 
 mysterious friend. 
 
 Accordingly, whilst the followers were beating 
 about for the lurking plunderers, and the woods 
 echoed with their loud shouts, he feigned an 
 excuse, and galloped back to the chateau, trusting 
 that his brief absence would be overlooked. In 
 the mean time, the dwarf, who had not been 
 summoned to the chase by his lord, had willingly 
 remained at home, and prepared every means to 
 facilitate the meeting. The young man, with 
 anxious haste, repaired to the appointed spot, 
 where, beneath a bower covered with luxuriant 
 dark foliage, and shaded by a group of venerable 
 trees, he beheld the loved object of his search. 
 
 The lady had scarcely reached the meridian 
 of life, still retaining every feature of matronly 
 beauty. Her figure was tall ; its every move- 
 ment graceful ; her face cast in the true Grecian 
 mould, with a pure and translucent complexion ; 
 the long dark silken eye-lash shading a clear grey 
 eye, and giving a subdued softness of expression 
 to her countenance. A casual obsen^er on 
 viewing the two persons, side by side, would 
 have discovered a striking resemblance between 
 them. 
 
110 THE CIRCASSIAN CHIEF. 
 
 Her watchful ear caught the sound of his 
 footstep, and rising, she rushed forward to meet 
 him, folding him in a momentary embrace, 
 as he endeavoured reverently to kiss her hand. 
 A convulsive sob impeded her utterance as she 
 attempted to speak ; but her fast- falling tears, 
 which bedewed his neck, expressed the fulness of 
 her love. That agitating moment over, her 
 composure returned ; and retiring to a seat, Ivan 
 placed himself by her side, his hand being fondly 
 locked in hers. 
 
 " Loved one," she said, " is it thus alone we 
 can meet, by stealth, and but for a brief space, 
 after so long an absence, and when, too, you 
 may be torn from me for ever ? Oh, Ivan ! 
 much have I suffered for your sake, and gladly 
 would I suffer more ; yet a woman's weakness 
 overpowers me, when I think of the dangers you 
 may be exposed to. He has told me that you 
 are about to accompany him on a distant 
 military expedition wherein you may gain honour 
 and renown, such as I know your noble heart 
 wiU rejoice in ; but dreadful forebodings haunt 
 my mind, for I feel it will be full of peril ; and 
 I cannot trust him. I seek to discover the 
 plans he is meditating for you, but they are be- 
 
THE CIRCASSIAN CHIEF. Ill 
 
 yond my comprehension. Whether affection, or 
 any other motive influences him, I know not ; 
 yet though he promises to advance you rapidly, 
 I doubt the sincerity of his words. But oh 1 
 Ivan, I am powerless, and commit you to the 
 charge of the God of your fathers." 
 
 *' For your sake," exclaimed the young man, 
 " I would resign aU my fond aspirations, and 
 would gladly remain to protect you ; but, alas ! 
 as a slave I must obey the Baron's wiU, or seek 
 my own fortune in the world without his aid." 
 
 " Well do I know your love, my brave 
 youth," replied the lady, " which would hazard 
 all for my welfare ; but that I ask not. No ! 
 go where glory and fame await you, and care 
 not for me, for I feel that my course of life is 
 weU nigh run, and that the day of my freedom 
 is at hand. Much more of anguish than you, 
 Ivan, can possibly know, has my bosom borne ; 
 but the hour is not yet come when I may re- 
 count to you the tale of my woes." 
 
 " To what secret woes do your words 
 allude ?" exclaimed Ivan, in agitation. " Oh, 
 my more than mother ! my protectress ! my 
 guardian angel ! am 1 ^hen incapable of protect- 
 ing you, or at least ol comforting you ? Oh 
 
1 1 2 THE CIRCASSIAN CHIEF. 
 
 despise me not by concealing your sufferings 
 from me !'* 
 
 "x\las ! your interference," said the lady, 
 despondingly, " would be of little avail ; it 
 might bring ruin on yourself, without impro^dng 
 my lot. No, no, loved one ! I woidd not blight 
 your happiness with my sorrow. You are on 
 the eve of visiting Moscow ; when there, mix in 
 the world ; seek all the enjoyment it can afford, 
 though I fear me there is but little to be found. 
 Yet I too was once blest vdth perfect happiness. 
 You will return here, I learn, before you depart 
 for the army, when I will relate all ; till then, 
 may your young heart beunseared by grief.'* 
 
 " Oh ! disclose your griefs to me now, dearest 
 lady. Let me endeavour to console them ; and 
 let my devotion in your service prove my love. 
 Surely the Baron, though severe and unjust at 
 times to me, cannot — dare not, be so barbiu'ous 
 as to injui'c one so lovely and gentle as yourself." 
 
 *' I may not at present reveal to you my sad 
 histor}'," rephed the lady ; " prudence demands 
 that the veil should not yet be withdrawn. You 
 know not what the Baron is. Time will display 
 his natiu'e." 
 
 The lady and the youth were still indulging 
 
THE CIRCASSIAN CHIEF. 113 
 
 in their melancholy, yet interesting conversation, 
 when they were suddenly interrupted by the 
 appearance of Ladislau, looking like some wood- 
 land sprite, as, with alarm on his countenance, 
 he rushed up to them through the mass of the 
 shrubbery. 
 
 " Hist ! hist !" he cried, but in a suppressed 
 voice ; " fly, Ivan, fly ! off with you — begone ! 
 this is no place for you ! Madam, pardon my 
 intrusion. Fly, Ivan, fly ! The Baron has re- 
 turned ; this moment I heard the tramp of his 
 horse's hoofs in the court-yard, and his voice 
 raised in anger; so I hastened to warn you. 
 He stormed and raged as usual. Yes, his 
 high mightiness was storming like a tornado." 
 
 The dwarf laughed in a shrill tone, and 
 added, " He will imdoubtedly come this way ; 
 and it would not calm his anger to find his son 
 here instead of accompanying him in the chase 
 of animals, less savage than himself. So fly, 
 my friend, fly from hence ; tarn^ not another 
 moment. And I would recommend vou too. 
 Madam, to avoid hun at present, if you wish 
 not to bear the brunt of his fury, which has 
 been excited by Ivan's absence." 
 
 Ivan respectfully raised the lady's hand to his 
 
114 THE CmCASSIAN CHIEF. 
 
 lips, and was bidding her farewell, when the 
 dwarf exclaimed, " Haste, haste, or you wiH be 
 discovered — see, here he comes;" and at that 
 instant, the Baron was seen at a short distance, 
 walking rapidly towards them. Ivan quickly 
 retreated by an opposite path, fortunately unper- 
 ceived by his father, while the Baron advanced 
 towards the lady and dwarf, with a dark frown 
 on his brow. 
 
 " So, ho. Madam," he cried; " is it thus you 
 abide by my injunctions not to move beyond 
 your apartment ? Be pleased forthwith to retire 
 to your chamber, until I repair thither; I shall 
 know how to correct this disobedience to my 
 commands. Make no answer! go. Madam, at 
 once!" 
 
 The lady spoke not, though her lip trembled 
 with emotion, and there was a flush on her 
 brow, as she turned to obey the Baron's com- 
 mand, and walked calmly towards the chateau. 
 
 "And you, imp ! what business of state 
 brought you to the lady?" said the Baron, turn- 
 ing to the dwarf. " Doubtless, you have been 
 laying some mischievous plans together. Have 
 you lately seen Ivan, sir manikin?" 
 
 " Yes, most noble and potent Seigneur," an- 
 
THE CIRCASSIAN CHIEF. 115 
 
 swered Ladislau; " I met him some time since, 
 walking in solitary and meditative mood. I 
 ventured not to interrupt the current of his 
 thoughts. Can I be the bearer of any of your 
 most gracious orders to him?" 
 
 "Yes, go find him, and say I desire his at- 
 tendance," said the Baron. " No, stay — I myself 
 will seek him. In which direction went he, do 
 you say?" 
 
 " In yonder avenue," replied the dwarf, point- 
 ing to an opposite spot to the one he believed 
 the youth was to be found in. 
 
 As the Baron walked quickly forward, he 
 muttered to himself, " Can it be that she, whose 
 stubborn soul would never bend to my wiU, 
 should be captivated by this youth ! By heavens ! 
 if I so find it, I will tear her limb from limb, 
 and let the boy feast his eyes on the spectacle. 
 Had the idea occurred to me before, he never 
 should have returned here. He is capable of 
 any deed; there is a bold, unruly spirit within 
 him, which I must curb with a tight rein, or he 
 wiU break loose even from me. He to be my 
 rival, forsooth ! here comes the audacious youth. 
 By heavens ! he has a right noble air, which may 
 well win any woman's love. I would destroy 
 
116 THE CIRCASSIAN CHIEF. 
 
 him at once, to prevent any further mischief; 
 but then I lose the cherished object for which I 
 nurtured him — no, no, that were worse than 
 foUy. He shaU live to become the fierce soldier 
 I would make him, and when he gains more of 
 the spirit of the tiger, which he now somewhat 
 lacks, I shall be content. He comes of a race, 
 whose blood is strongly imbued with it, and in 
 his it must exist also." 
 
 By the time the Baron had arrived at the con- 
 clusion of this soliloquy, which vaguely hinted at 
 his sinister schemes, his anger had been tem- 
 pered, partly by the ideas of future triumph it 
 awakened, partly by the cool perfumed breeze, 
 which played within the shady walk. He had 
 been unsuccessful that morning in the chase, 
 which had raised his choler; and when he 
 missed Ivan from his side, and ascertained on 
 inquiry, that he had been seen riding in the 
 direction of the chateau, his rage was greatly 
 increased. On his return, he learned that his 
 son had proceeded into the grounds, whither 
 the lady had shortly before also been observed 
 to go. 
 
 " I perceive. Sir," he said on confronting his 
 son, " that you prefer luxurious ease in shady 
 
THE CIRCASSIAN CHIEF. 1 1 7 
 
 bowers, to the hardy and noble exercise of hunt- 
 ing, in disobedience moreover to my wishes; 
 but let me tell you, young man, such is but a 
 bad promise of your future conduct in a military 
 career; and you need not expect my counten- 
 ance or support, during the continuance of such 
 frivolities, and opposition to my will. I expect 
 henceforth to find you foremost in danger, and 
 ever prompt to endure hardships without murmur. 
 Thus it was that I fought my way up the ladder 
 of fame, and thus must you follow, if you desire 
 advancement, and value a high name." 
 
 " I tmst. Sir, you will never find me remiss in 
 my military duties," answered Ivan. 
 
 "I have found you already deficient in its 
 most essential branch;" angrily rejoined the 
 Baron, then assuming a calmer tone, he added 
 " you had some motive, and not a trifling one, 
 which induced you to act contrary to my will 
 this day; ah, you start! Beware, young man, 
 should my suspicions prove correct, your fate is 
 sealed! Again, I say, beware! My natui'e is 
 such as will not be trifled with ; prepare for 
 your departure to-morrow for Moscow; that is a 
 favoiu" I grant you ; so answer me not ; you now 
 know my will." 
 
118 THE CIRCASSIAN CHIEF. 
 
 Accustomed as he was to the authoritative 
 tone of one who, in his mildest mood, never 
 brooked a reply, Ivan's lips moved with emotion, 
 yet they uttered no sound, as the Baron turned 
 away, and walked towards the mansion. 
 
 The dark hints which his father had let fall 
 fixed Ivan to the spot in deep meditation ; yet 
 he could not settle in his mind to what they 
 could allude, dismissing at once, as too pre- 
 posterous, the real cause. Finally he came to the 
 resolution of implicitly following his orders, 
 though he would fain have tarried a few days 
 longer in the chateau, to hold further intercourse 
 with his sorrowful protectress. Then retiring to 
 his chamber, to make the requisite preparations, 
 he was soon joined by the dwarf. 
 
 As soon as he was informed of his fi-iend's 
 banishment, tears feU from the little man's 
 eyes. 
 
 " Oh, Ivan," he exclaimed, " my friend, my 
 brother, my son — for you are each and all to 
 me — I have experienced many cruel trials ; but 
 to part with you is severer than all combined. 
 We may never meet again, for I fear the Baron 
 will not allow you to return here ; and I am 
 growing so weary of this cruel world, that I ex- 
 
THE CIRCASSIAN CHIEF. 119 
 
 pect not to remain much longer an inhabitant of 
 it. Ivan, my dear boy, forget not Ladislau, for 
 be assured his first and last daily thought will be 
 of you." 
 
 Ivan succeeded in soothing his little friend's 
 grief, by sincere assurances of his remembrance. 
 He then requested him to take his earnest fare- 
 well to the lady, as he could not hope to see her 
 again before his departure, promising that, at 
 every risk, he would return ere he joined the 
 army, while during the interval, he would regu- 
 larly inform Ladislau of his proceedings. 
 
 After quitting his son in the grounds which 
 encompassed the mansion, the Baron repaired 
 forthwith to the chamber of the lady, who re- 
 ceived him with a proud and dignified air, before 
 which even he for a moment paused abashed. 
 
 "Your time. Madam, I have discovered, is 
 not always passed in the dismal solitude of which 
 you so repeatedly complain. Hear me ! you 
 would seduce the affections of my son ! Ha^ 
 Madam, is it so ? You turn pale and tremble I 
 This moment I parted from the youth ; and as I 
 taxed him with my suspicions, his look of con- 
 scious guilt revealed the truth. He had not a 
 word to urge in his own defence. Do you 
 
120 THE CIRCASSIAN CHIEF. 
 
 answer for him ? Am I not correct ? Speak, 
 woman !" 
 
 The lady stood for a while in mute astonish- 
 ment at the accusations so suddenly and violently 
 brought against her. At length she uttered, in 
 a voice, choking with emotion : 
 
 " Be Heaven my witness that I speak the 
 truth, when I declare that I am guiltless of the 
 crime you charge me with." 
 
 " Deceitful woman, thou liest !" cried the 
 Baron, giving vent to a burst of uncontrol- 
 lable anger ; he gnashed his teeth, while his 
 eyes rolled wildly ; he lifted his arm, and stnick 
 the defenceless female. She uttered no ciy ; 
 but every di'op of blood quitted her cheek, 
 and she would have fallen to the floor, had not 
 the wall supported her. Rivetting her eye on 
 her oppressor, and mustering all her energy, she 
 proudly confronted him in scorn and contempt, 
 branding him with the epithet of coward. The 
 ruffian, in his turn, trembled, and quailed before 
 the superior might — the majesty of a lovely 
 woman, conscious of her unsullied virtue. He 
 felt himself to be the despicable being she termed 
 him ; his honour had been for ever disgraced by 
 this foul indelible stain. He felt that his name 
 
THE CIRCASSIAN CHIEF. 121 
 
 was for ever blotted from the roUs of chivalry ; 
 that every slave who crawled in chains on his 
 land would be deemed more worthy to touch a 
 lady's hand than he. 
 
 The haughty lord answered not: his tongue 
 was tied — he was conquered. Without even 
 daring to meet her glance of scorn, he turned 
 away, and quitted the apartment. When left 
 in solitude, the lady sunk on a couch, and 
 pressed her brow within her hands. 
 
 " For what fate am I reserved ?" she cried. 
 " To perish by the hand of this dastard tyrant ! 
 No more to revisit my own sunny hiUs and 
 smihng vales. Yet, for the sake of that loved 
 one, I can and will bear all. Could 1 but feel 
 assured of his happiness, I would yield to death 
 contentedly. There is, however, one duty more 
 due to him — then welcome death !" 
 
 VOL. I. 
 
122 THE CIRCASSIAN CHIEF. 
 
 CHAPTER VIII. 
 
 What you have said 
 I will consider ; what you have to say 
 I will ^vith patience hear ; and find a time 
 Both meet to hear and answer such high things. 
 
 SHAKSPEARE. 
 
 Ivan was fully equipped for his journey to 
 Moscow, in pursuance of his father's orders, 
 when he received a summons to attend him. 
 
 " I have desired your presence," said the 
 Baron, as he entered, " to communicate my last 
 orders. I will allow you an ample sum for your 
 expenses, and a sojourn of six weeks in Moscow. 
 Dedicate that period to amusement ; at its ex- 
 piration you will be attached to my staff ; mean- 
 while have your uniforms prepared. You may 
 now depart." 
 
 The young man withdrew, his parting saluta- 
 tion being scarcely noticed. He was met in the 
 
THE CIRCASSIAN CHIEF. 123 
 
 court-yard by his friend the dwarf, who shed 
 tears as Ivan mounted his horse ; while he him- 
 self felt sad in parting from one of the few 
 friends he possessed in the world. He took a 
 last look at the apartment occupied by the lady 
 so deeply beloved by him. All was closed and 
 mournful there. Then spurring his horse, he 
 rode rapidly from the chateau. 
 
 A lively and bustling scene met his view as 
 he entered Moscow. It was a day dedicated to 
 one of the numerous saints in the calendar of 
 the Greek church, and a holiday ; so that all 
 the world was abroad, taking recreation during 
 their brief but beautiful spring. 
 
 The sumptuous equipages of the nobles were 
 dashing by, with their four spirited horses, har- 
 nessed in long traces, and guided by a tiny 
 postillion, while a portly, liveried coachman was 
 seated more for state than service, on the richly 
 ornamented coach-box. Officers, in various uni- 
 forms, and followed by wild and fierce-looking 
 Calmuc Tartars, galloped in every direction. 
 Countless were the gay vehicles in motion; 
 conspicuous amongst these, was the light-formed 
 drosky, drawn by a pair of horses, the animal in 
 the shafts advancing at a finely paced trot, while 
 
 G 2 
 
124 THE CIRCASSIAN CHIEF. 
 
 his companion, now prancing and curvetting, 
 now sideling in graceful bounds, attracted the 
 spectators' admiring gaze. Costly were the 
 dresses, and glittering the stars with which the 
 proud nobles were arrayed, as they rode or drove 
 past in rapid succession, offering a marked con- 
 trast to the humble and bearded citizens as- 
 sembled on the occasion. Every human being, 
 whatever his garb or condition, seemed happy ; 
 and the young visitor unconsciously caught the 
 same feeling. ' Having given his friend Thad- 
 deus notice of his intended coming, he was not 
 surprised, though much pleased, to be welcomed 
 by him on dismounting at his hotel. 
 
 " Most grave hermit," exclaimed his friend, 
 " happy am I to find that you have been enticed 
 away from your contemplations amid groves and 
 lakes, and I trust soon to initiate your philosophy 
 in the mysteries of a city existence." 
 
 " Thanks, my good Thaddeus, I have deter- 
 mined upon seeing what you term the world 
 and its amusements, and resign myself entirely 
 to your sage guidance." 
 
 It is unnecessary to follow the two friends 
 through all the scenes of gaiety, into which they 
 plunged with the ardour of youth; it is sufficient 
 
THE CIRCASSIAN CHIEF. 125 
 
 to say, that Iv^an, in spite of his retiring dispo- 
 sition, soon found himself much sought after, 
 among the highest circles of rank and ton in 
 Moscow, formed as he was both in person, and 
 mind to adorn society. He could not but feel 
 gratified by the attentions he received, and 
 amused by the various scenes of gaiety in which 
 he moved; so that sombre reflections had no 
 opportunity to creep in, and mar his pleasure. 
 Many days had thus flown quickly by, without a 
 single interruption to their light and joyous 
 course ; even the adventure with the Gipsies, on 
 their journey from St. Petersburg, was forgotten; 
 when one evening, at an entertainment given by 
 the Prince Galitzin, they were startled on hear- 
 ing announced the name of the Count Erintoif. 
 Shortly after, they saw him advancing with an 
 acquaintance of theirs, in the direction where 
 they were standing, apparently without his re- 
 cognizing them, and he would have passed by, 
 had not Ivan's eye been fixed sternly upon him. 
 A sudden start accompanied by a frown marked 
 the recognition, when his companion turning 
 round, and observing the two young men, stopped 
 to present him to them. With a bland smile he 
 advanced, and politely saluting them, began, 
 
126 THE CIRCASSIAN CHIEF. 
 
 without hesitation, a light and diverting conver- 
 sation on the common topics of the day. His 
 address was so unembarrassed, and his manner 
 so cordial towards them, that they became 
 doubtful whether he actually remembered them 
 as his former opponents ; a shght incident, how- 
 ever, took place later in the evening, which 
 made them again feel certain, that he knew 
 them. Ivan had engaged, as a partner in the 
 dance, a beautiful girl, to whom the Count had 
 been paying marked attention; and he was 
 standing near to her, when Ivan advanced to 
 claim her hand, which she offered with a 
 smile. 
 
 The eyes of the Count turned upon him with 
 a peculiarly dark and ominous expression, indi- 
 cating his feelings of animosity more fuUy and 
 directly than any w^ords, that he could venture 
 to utter in such an assembly; ere Ivan had 
 time to scrutinize that glance, the Count's fea- 
 tures had resumed their wonted bland expres- 
 sion; and he had turned with some witty re- 
 partee to the nearest lady. 
 
 " No matter," thought Ivan, "if he does 
 recognize me, I may yet laugh at, and despise 
 his vengeance." 
 
THE CIRCASSIAN CHIEF. 127 
 
 On quitting the palace with Thaddeus, they 
 fancied that their steps were dogged by some 
 one, who appeared to be watching the course 
 they took; but whoever it might be, he kept at 
 so wary a distance, that they could not devise a 
 plausible excuse for addressing him; and ere 
 they had reached their hotel, the individual had 
 disappeared. 
 
 The following day was also a festival of the 
 church, and again were the promenades and 
 public di'ives swarming with old and young ; the 
 gay noble, and sober tradesman. 
 
 Thaddeus engaged Ivan to accompany him in 
 his drosky, to the favourite promenade of the 
 citizens, called " L'Allee des Peuples," which is 
 without the city barrier; and were the shop- 
 keepers and inferior classes of society assemble 
 to enjoy their favourite pastimes. On their w^ay 
 they observed in the distance the state prisons, 
 where the unfortunate exiles are confined, pre- 
 viously to their departure for Siberia; collected 
 together from all parts of the Empire, in gloomy 
 despondency, they there await the day, which 
 always falls on Monday, when it shall be their 
 turn to set forth in a troop on their toilsome and 
 dreary journey. 
 
128 THE CIRCASSIAN CHIEF. 
 
 "Ah," thought Ivan, as he gazed on the 
 long, low, but strongly guarded walls, " how 
 many an innocent victim has there parted from all 
 the sweet, and fond ties of life, to march bare- 
 footed, and in chains over hundreds of long 
 leagues, weak and bleeding; his companions 
 dying by his side, day after day, as lying down 
 to rest, they find an everlasting repose, happier 
 than the survivors left to eke out, with hopeless 
 toil, a miserable existence, in an inhospitable 
 clime." 
 
 It must, however be observed, that though 
 the fate of most of the exiles is forlorn and mise- 
 rable in the extreme; others of higher rank, and 
 banished for slight political offences, are allowed 
 comparative freedom, on their amval at their 
 place of destination. Many reside in cities with 
 their families, surrounded with most of the luxu- 
 ries of Europe, though under the surveillance of 
 the police. Yet what can compensate for a banish- 
 ment from their native land without the remotest 
 hope or power of returning thither? 
 
 The promenade of the people of which we 
 have spoken, is a wide tract, ornamented with 
 noble trees, and furnished with all the means 
 necessary to promote the national amusements 
 
THE CIRCASSIAN CHIEF. 129 
 
 of the Russians. Thither had resorted the easily 
 pleased citizens to amuse themselves, to the ut- 
 most, after their busy occupations. Surrounded by 
 their families and friends, seated on the turf, they 
 were enjoying their tea, which was served out of 
 large urns, placed before them on the ground; 
 the joke and the refreshments passing merrily 
 roimd. Here, a large concourse of idlers formed 
 a circle round a party of mountebanks and 
 jugglers; each feat of dexterity receiving loud 
 applause: there, a troop of Gipsy girls gained 
 equal admiration, as, in the mazy figures of the 
 dance, they exhibited their picturesque and grace- 
 ful movements. 
 
 It mostly happens that those of a higher 
 station do not deign to become spectators of these 
 scenes, and restrict themselves to their own pro- 
 menades; yet, there were a few whosecuriosity, like 
 of th^t our two friends, had led them to this spot. 
 
 Thaddeus was conversing with an acquaint- 
 ance w^hom he accidentally met, while Ivan, 
 standing a few paces from them, observed the 
 approach of a band of dancing girls, and, among 
 them, he recognized a face he could not easily 
 forget, though the person w^as evidently not tak- 
 ing a part in the exhibition. He could not be 
 
 G 3 
 
130 THE CIRCASSIAN CHIEF. 
 
 deceived in Azila, the Gipsy maiden. She 
 passed close to him, and a slight momentary 
 blush tinged her cheek, as beckoning to him, 
 she separated from her companions. He fol- 
 lowed her, until she stopped beneath a thick 
 cluster of trees, which screened them from ob- 
 servation. 
 
 " I fear you will think me bold, and forward 
 in thus addressing you," said she, " but I have 
 urgent reasons for so doing. This day, I pur- 
 posed seeking you out in another part of the 
 city; when, having joined the band of dancers, 
 with a view of meeting those whom I sought, 
 without suspicion, I saw you enter the gardens. 
 Think not," and she blushed deeply; " that I 
 would exhibit myself to the gaze of the miserable 
 slaves assembled to witness the performances of 
 my companions. You will shortly understand 
 more clearly the reasons which induce me to 
 appear among them; till then, judge not ill of 
 me — but to my errand, for time presses. 
 Danger threatens under many shapes ; and one 
 whom you know, the Count ErintofF, has sworn 
 to revenge himself on you, for your generous 
 defence of me. He seeks your life, and that of 
 your friend; and though he is too great a coward 
 
THE CIRCASSIAN CHIEF. 131 
 
 to hazard his own, he may employ others to do 
 his bidding. Be therefore constantly on your 
 guard, yet without fear, for there are those who 
 feel an earnest interest in your welfare, who will 
 watch over your safety, and have marked each 
 movement of yours, since you arrived in 
 Moscow." 
 
 " I thank you, fair one, for your warning,'* 
 answered Ivan; " but I fear not the Count, 
 or any plans he may form against me or my 
 friend." 
 
 "You know not," hastily rejoined Azila; 
 " what means a man of his vindictive, and das- 
 tard disposition would stoop to, for the accom- 
 plishment of a vile purpose; and I entreat you to 
 beware of him — but I have more to say. You are 
 destined for nobler deeds than the life you now 
 lead affords, where you are dissipating yoiu* time 
 and talents in pursuits totally unworthy of you. 
 My boldness of speech may surprise you, and 
 appear unmaidenly ; but I know that I may 
 trust you in what I am about to impart. A 
 great revolution in the affairs of this country 
 is about to take place ; yet you — so fit to lead 
 your countrymen, and to aid in their regeneration, 
 are ignorant of the project. Sure I am, that were 
 
132 THE CIRCASSIAN CHIEF. 
 
 you once summoned to join in the noble work, 
 you would stake all on the glorious enterprise. 
 One, on whom you may rely, will shortly com- 
 municate with you on the subject; oh! do not 
 hesitate to follow his advice. The day of the 
 regeneration of Russia is at hand ! Thus much — 
 but more I may not disclose; but think deeply 
 on my words ; — see, some one draws near, fare- 
 well for a time!" 
 
 Ere Ivan had time to make any answer to 
 this extraordinary communication, the speaker 
 had escaped, and following her with his eye, he 
 traced her, until she rejoined the party of danc- 
 ing girls, who shortly moved away from the spot. 
 
 On returning in search of Thaddeus, he pon- 
 dered on what he had just heard. " Extraordi- 
 nary being that she is," thought he ; " what 
 secret motive can so deeply interest her in my 
 actions, and how can she become acquainted 
 with plots and conspiracies of such deep im- 
 port?" 
 
 At fii'st, he hesitated to mention the occur- 
 rence to his friend ; but, on their return to the 
 hotel, when he was rallied on account of his 
 silent and meditative mood, he informed him of 
 the warning he had received. 
 
THE CIRCASSIAN CHIEF. 133 
 
 Thaddeus laughed loud, as he expressed his 
 opinion; "Truly, indeed, this is an excellent 
 excuse which the pretty Gipsy has discovered 
 for renewing her acquaintance with you ; why, 
 Ivan, I see through it all. She has fallen des- 
 perately in love with you, and would have told 
 you so, had you given her the slightest encou- 
 ragement, and the time been more opportune." 
 
 Ivan indignantly repelled the idea. " No, 
 no !" he said, " her manner was too earnest — too 
 respectful to bespeak any such inclination. She 
 naturally feels gratitude for our aid in rescuing 
 her from the power of that smiling faced ruffian, 
 the Count Erintoff, and, in retui'n, has warned us 
 of the revenge he meditates for our interference, 
 and which she has, by some means, discovered. 
 With regard to the more important part of her 
 disclosure, I confide in you with an equal trust to 
 that she has reposed in me. I gather from her 
 words that a plot is being laid to overthrow the 
 whole mighty fabric of this despotic government, 
 which now appears to stand on so immoveable a 
 foimdation." 
 
 A laugh again burst from his friend, who re- 
 plied, " Your vivid imagination, my dear Ivan, 
 carries you beyond the limits of probability; 
 
134 THE CIRCASSIAN CHIEF. 
 
 though I sincerely wish it were so; but I rather 
 think that the pretty messenger's sole view, was 
 to excite your curiosity, in order to gain another 
 interview." 
 
 "Time will shew, Thaddeus," replied th^ 
 other, " I differ entirely from you, and, until 
 then, I win not give up the opinion I have 
 formed of Azila." 
 
 Immediately on quitting the public promenade 
 of the citizens, and previously to their return to 
 the hotel, Thaddeus drove to a far distant scene. 
 The aristocratic promenade of Pedroski leads 
 through a magnificent forest ; the grounds en- 
 compassing the venerable chateau are laid out 
 with perfect taste, and are ornamented with 
 every variety of tree and shrub. Here they were 
 among the votaries of rank and fashion; the 
 elite of Moscow ; vying with each other in the 
 magnificence and style of their equipages. Ele- 
 gantly di'essed ladies, reclined in their carriages, 
 and proud seigneurs covered with decorations, 
 and followed by their attendants, galloped by 
 with erect and haughty mien. Dashing young 
 officers, in their brilliant uniforms, were display- 
 ing themselves and their mettled steeds to their 
 own satisfaction — if not to that of others. 
 
THE CIRCASSIAN CHIEF. 135 
 
 Whilst they were in earnest conversation, on 
 the subject of Azila's warning, a messenger ar- 
 rived to summon Thaddeus home, on account of 
 the illness of his father. He accordingly de- 
 parted, leaving Ivan again alone. Left to his 
 own thoughts, a heavy weight oppressed his 
 spirits, for his mind dwelt forcibly on the mys- 
 terious import of Azila's words. At one mo- 
 ment, his calm reason warned him not to listen 
 to the seductive arguments that might be used 
 to induce him tojoininan attempt, which woiild 
 too probably lead to the utter destruction of 
 al] engaged in it ; and, then again, his enthusiasm 
 would be aroused, and he confessed the enter- 
 prise was well worthy of a severe stiTiggle. 
 
 He was alone in the hotel on the following 
 day, when a noble of some consideration, whom 
 he had frequently met in society, was an- 
 nounced. 
 
 The visitor, as soon as the servant had re- 
 tired, looked cautiously round the room, and ap- 
 proaching the door, secured it. " I would be 
 private," he whispered, " and free from any 
 chance of interruption, for I have a communica- 
 tion of deep importance to make : — are we safe 
 from eaves-droppers ?" 
 
136 THE CIRCASSIAN CHIEF. 
 
 " I believe so," answered Ivan, wondering to 
 what grave matter such cautious preliminaries 
 would lead. 
 
 "Can I trust to the most inviolable secrecy 
 in what I am about to say?" inquired the 
 stranger guest ; " but why do I ask, for I am 
 satisfied that I may." 
 
 " Undoubtedly you may, Sir," proudly replied 
 Ivan, " in anything not opposed to my honour." 
 
 " Far from it," hastily rejoined the other. 
 *' Think not for a moment that I would propose 
 aught that would reflect disgrace on your name. 
 I pledge you my own word of honour ; that all I 
 require, in return for my disclosure, is inviolable 
 secrecy on your part ; any step fui'ther I leave to 
 your own judgment." 
 
 " Speak on," answered Ivan, " whatever 
 you may reveal, shall never pass my lips." 
 
 " My confidence is fully confirmed," replied 
 the guest, "or I should not have visited you. 
 You were last evening in the ' AUee des Peu- 
 ples' with your friend, Stanislofi^; you w^ere 
 there accosted by a Gipsy girl, whom you had 
 previously known ; she beckoned to you, and 
 you followed her. You recollect the words she 
 uttered — ' The day of the regeneration of Russia 
 
THE CIRCASSIAN CHIEF. 13? 
 
 is at hand.' Nay, start not, no one overheard 
 you : she was but performing a commission for 
 others of power and of influence — a task she 
 gladly undertook. You have been marked by 
 them as one fit to assist in the noble cause in 
 which they are engaged. Azila, the Gipsy 
 girl, is one of the chief means of communication 
 with our friends in all parts of the country; 
 she has guaranteed yoiu* honour and fidelity." 
 
 " What aid can I afford to the cause of free- 
 dom ?" inquired Ivan, " when I am myself 
 utterly powerless ; opposed as you must know the 
 Baron Galetzoif to be to any measures calcu- 
 lated to give liberty to the people." 
 
 " We well know that the son has far different 
 opinions to those entertained by his father ; we 
 are also well aware that the Baron is a staunch 
 upholder of despotism ; but, need I ask — is it 
 incumbent on the son to adhere to the despotic 
 principles of his parent ? No ! — I feel confident 
 that you at least, will not." 
 
 The stranger, as he spoke, had intently 
 watched Ivan's countenance, and appearing to 
 gather confidence, continued — 
 
 " That you wiU ultimately join us, I anticipate 
 with satisfaction; meanwhile, however, come 
 
138 THE CIRCASSIAN CHIEF. 
 
 and hear oiu' plans. These I dare not utter 
 within these walls, for even they may have ears 
 and a voice to carry the tale ; but, would you 
 know more, I will conduct you where all will be 
 disclosed. WiU you accompany me ?" 
 
 " I must deeply consider the matter, ere I 
 answer you ; but tell me," said Ivan, " where I 
 can meet vou, should I consent." 
 
 " On the banks of the Moskowa, beneath the 
 walls of the Kremlin, is a secluded walk, which 
 is entered from the public gardens — you doubt- 
 less know it ; there we may escape obseiTation ; 
 our converse secui'e from the lurking spy. At 
 dusk this evening — may I reckon upon your 
 coming ?" 
 
 A few minutes succeeded, during which Ivan 
 appeared wrapped in thought. At length, he 
 answered firmly, 
 
 " I will meet you at the spot and hour you 
 name, and, though I do not engage to enter into 
 your views, I swear that your confidence in me 
 shall not be abused." 
 
 His \dsitor smiled, and replied : 
 
 "With you, fear has doubtless little influence; 
 but there are some who require that m.otive for 
 secrecy; and imagine not that a thought of 
 
THE CIRCASSIAN CHIEF. 139 
 
 treachery can be harboured, without drawing 
 down instant retribution. At dusk we meet 
 again, adieu !" 
 
 Ivan ushered the stranger to the door, the latter, 
 passing out into the street, assumed the easy and 
 careless air of the numerous loungers thronging 
 around him. 
 
 How little can the passenger through the 
 crowded streets tell of the varied thoughts, 
 feelings, and passions, which fill the breasts of 
 those who encounter him ! The grief and agony ; 
 despair and hatred ; the avarice, love, or benefi- 
 cence, the joy, or careless indifference of the 
 wayfarers; the man whose dearest tie has 
 been torn from him ; the ruined gamester ; the 
 assassin, advancing to his work of blood, the 
 miser to his hoards ; the father to his offspring ; 
 the lover to his mistress ; the Samaritan, hasten- 
 ing to relieve the distressed; the long-absent 
 traveller, to his home ; the fop, the fool, or the 
 wise man ; every character is passed in succession 
 each instant, unheeded and unknown. 
 
140 THE CIRCASSIAN CHIEF. 
 
 CHAPTER IX. 
 
 The sufferance of our souls the time's abuse ; 
 If these be motives weak, break off betimes ; 
 And every man hence to his idle bed ; 
 So let high- sighted tyranny range on, 
 Till each man drop by lottery. 
 
 SHAKESPEARE. 
 
 Ivan, once having resolved to follow the 
 guidance of his new friend, looked forward with 
 eagerness to the approach of evening ; and, ere 
 the time had arrived, throwing his cloak about 
 him, he sauntered forth in the direction of the 
 Kremlin. 
 
 This venerable pile, regarded by the inhabitants 
 of Moscow as the heart — the sacred place — the 
 tabernacle, as it were, of their city, was anciently 
 a fortress of the rude and fierce Tartars ; and 
 indeed, at that peiiod, the whole of the city was 
 contained within its walls. It stands on a com- 
 manding site by the banks of the Moskwa, whose 
 
THE CIRCASSIAN CHIEF. 141 
 
 waters wash its base, surrounded by high and 
 ancient walls of a triangular form, nearly two 
 miles in extent. Its area encloses numerous 
 cathedrals, gorgeous palaces, churches and 
 monasteries ; surmounted by towers, belfries, and 
 steeples ; displaying every variety of architecture, 
 including the Tartar, Hindoo, Chinese, and 
 Gothic. Above all this vast pile rises the 
 lofty tower of Ivan Veliki, its golden ball now 
 reflecting the rays of the setting sun with daz- 
 zling brilliancy; the whole forming a strange 
 mixture of barbaric splendour, blended with the 
 stately elegance of modern times. 
 
 There are no regular streets within the Krem- 
 lin, the buildings being raised around several 
 open places or squares, to which the inhabitants 
 resort for walking or driving. 
 
 The walls, which are surmounted by battle- 
 ments and watch-towers, have five gates, the 
 principal of which is the " Saviour's" or " Holy 
 Gate." Through this awe-commanding portal 
 no male, not even the Czar and Autocrat of aU 
 the Russias, may pass, save with uncovered head 
 and bended body. 
 
 Through this gate, Ivan now proceeded bare- 
 headed, and entered a noble esplanade, com- 
 
142 THE CIRCASSIAN CHIEF. 
 
 manding one of the most interesting views of 
 Moscow, having in front the range of the 
 palaces of the Czars, with their varied and fanci- 
 ful style of architecture. He paced its extent 
 for some time, meditating oi;i the important 
 affairs which he was likely to be suddenly, and 
 as he could not but admit to himself, rashly 
 engaged in. 
 
 As the shades of evening began to close 
 around him, he left the Kremlin by one of the 
 less remarkable gates, and sought the appointed 
 place of rendezvous. 
 
 After traversing the walk several times, he 
 began to suspect that he must have mistaken 
 the time and place, as no one appeared ; or that 
 his new friend had been prevented from keeping 
 the appointment by some unforeseen circima- 
 stance. He accordingly determined to return 
 to the hotel, when suddenly, as if springing from 
 the earth, a dark figure stood before him, so 
 closely muffled as to baffle recognition. Ivan 
 recoiled a few paces, so unexpectedly did the 
 figure come upon him; and, as his mind re- 
 curred to Azila's warnings respecting the secret 
 revenge of the Count ErintofF, the idea of 
 treachery presented itself, and his hand clutched 
 
THE CIRCASSIAN CHIEF. 143 
 
 the pistols concealed within his breast. Thus 
 prepared, he confronted the stranger, friend or 
 foe as he might prove to be. 
 
 " Why come you here ?" demanded the 
 figure, in a voice unknown to Ivan's ear. 
 
 " In search of him who appointed a meeting 
 with me here," answered the young man. 
 " Know you aught of him ?" 
 
 " Behold him before you," said the visitor of 
 the morning, stepping forward, and speaking 
 in a tone which the other immediately knew. 
 
 " It is well," replied Ivan. " Your feigned 
 voice at first deceived me. But how came you 
 so suddenly upon me ?" 
 
 "Ah, you were taken unawares," said the 
 other. " You then did not obser^^e my skiff, as 
 I guided it noiselessly under the bank, and 
 landed when you had turned the other way 
 while I closely watched you. It behoves aU of 
 us, in these times, who seek success in bold 
 enterprises, to be wary in our movements. But 
 we have no time to lose ; and now to the matter 
 on which we have met." 
 
 " Speak on," said Ivan. " I am prepared to 
 hear, and shall not forget my promise." 
 
 " Listen then," said the other. " Ivan Galet- 
 
144 THE CIRCASSIAN CHIEF. 
 
 zoff, you are far better known than you arc 
 aware of. Since you came to Moscow you have 
 been constantly followed, and your words 
 marked. Many, of whom you are totally igno- 
 rant, know you, and admire your principles; 
 and further, have selected you as fit to engage in 
 noble and daring deeds." 
 
 " You surprise me !" exclaimed Ivan, yielding 
 to flattery, so difficult for youth to resist when 
 admxinistered to the very points on which he 
 probably prides himself; "I did not deem my- 
 self of sufficient importance to have notice taken 
 of my words and actions." 
 
 " I speak but the truth respecting you," 
 answ^ered his companion. " Say, do you not 
 abhor despotism and tyranny ? Do you not 
 cherish the love of freedom, and the happiness 
 of your fellow-creatures ?" 
 
 " I both detest tyranny and love freedom," 
 answered Ivan ; " but what service can my single 
 arm afl'ord, either to overthi'ow the one, or to 
 defend the other ?" 
 
 " Much," hastily responded the stranger. 
 " You do not stand alone. Your principles are 
 supported by thousands of spirits, noble as your 
 own. The sacred cause of liberty must, and 
 
THE CIRCASSIAN CHIEF. 145 
 
 will be triumphant over all her base oppo- 
 nents. 
 
 " I fear that our chains are too securely 
 rivetted, to be wrenched asunder," answered 
 Ivan, " and too many are interested in forging 
 fresh links to leave us hope of freeing our- 
 selves, even at the sacrifice of our heart's 
 blood." 
 
 " You labour under a false impression, my 
 young friend," answered his companion ; " for 
 all classes join heart and soul in this glorious 
 work. Indeed, the Despot has no greater ene- 
 mies than many among the highest in the land, 
 who feel their chains more galling than do the 
 humble serfs ; again I ask you, do you not wish 
 success to their gallant spirits engaged in the 
 noble attempt?" 
 
 " Most earnestly do I hope they may succeed," 
 said Ivan. 
 
 " Enough," answered the conspirator, for 
 such he declared himself, " I need test you no 
 more; for I place implicit confidence in you. 
 This evening, the advocates of Russian Liberty 
 hold a meeting, and, as I anticipate that ere long 
 you win join them with heart and hand, I will 
 introduce you to them." 
 
 VOL. I. H 
 
146 THE CIRCASSIAN CHIEF. 
 
 " Lead — and I will follow," replied Ivan, 
 with enthusiasm ; " my heart yearns to join any 
 w^ho advocate so noble a cause, and I trust I 
 may not prove unworthy of it." 
 
 " No time must then be lost ; e'en now they 
 are assembled," rejoined his companion, " their 
 place of council is at some distance, and speak 
 not, till I give the word, for w^e shall be obliged 
 to pass the poHce patrols, ever watchful and 
 vigilant." 
 
 " Forward then," said Ivan, " and rely on 
 my prudence." 
 
 The conspirator stealthily led the way down a 
 path to the margin of the river, where they 
 found a small skiff, capable of containing three 
 persons — a rower resting on his oars being 
 already seated, who, on a signal from the former, 
 pulled rapidly down the stream. Continuing their 
 course in silence for some time, the oarsman ab- 
 ruptly ceased rowing, and the little bark glided 
 swiftly into a dark and narrow creek on the 
 opposite bank of the river. Ivan followed his 
 guide on shore, while the boat held her course 
 again down the narrow stream. 
 
 As they advanced, lights were visible in the 
 apartments of many handsome buildings, and 
 
THE CIRCASSIAN CHIEF. 147 
 
 Ivan found himself in a respectable part of the 
 city, though one in which many vestiges still 
 remained of the devastating conflagration which 
 had reduced Moscow to ashes. His guide 
 threaded in his way many lanes, and traversed 
 wide streets, till suddenly retreating to the back 
 of a handsome mansion, that had lately been 
 raised from the ruins which surrounded it, he 
 gave a low and peculiar knock at a wicket gate, 
 opening apparently into a garden. The signal on 
 beng twice repeated, was answered by a decrepid 
 old man, with a long beard and tattered dress, 
 who unclosed the gate, but instantly relocked it, 
 as the two visitors entered. 
 
 " Who is it," said he, " seeking to disturb 
 the old serf Kersoif at this late hour ? — If any 
 wish to buy his garden produce, let them come 
 by daylight, and not rouse him from his 
 bed." 
 
 The guide whispered a word in the old man's 
 ear, and he retired to his hut by the side of the 
 gate. 
 
 The light afforded by the starry heavens ena- 
 bled Ivan to distinguish the appearance of the 
 place where he stood, which seemed to have 
 been a large garden, now filled with ruins \ ap- 
 
 H 2 
 
148 THE CIRCASSIAN CHIEF. 
 
 pai'ently the remains of buildings of considerable 
 extent. 
 
 Passing over heaps of rubbish, his guide 
 stopped at what appeared to be a small summer 
 house — also in a ruinous state ; the same signal 
 as before was given, and the door opening, ad- 
 mitted them into an apartment in total dark- 
 ness. 
 
 Ivan for a moment hesitated to foUow ; the 
 idea of some diabolical treachery — such as he 
 had heard of too often — again rushing on his 
 mind ; yet, quickly determining to brave the 
 worst, he prepared to go on. His guide spoke 
 a few words to the person who had admitted 
 them, and who yet remained concealed, and then 
 offered his hand to Ivan to conduct him onwards. 
 
 " The neophite must pass thi'ough darkness 
 before he can reach the light," he whispered; 
 " but fear not, it will soon burn brightly on you. 
 Ah! I feel your pulse beats calm and regu- 
 lar, such are the nerves we require ; do not 
 speak now." 
 
 They descended a flight of steps, narrow and 
 winding, tiH they were again stopped by another 
 door, which was opened, on the like signal as 
 before being given, without the porter being 
 
THE CIRCASSIAN CHIEF. 149 
 
 visible, and they found themselves in a small 
 chamber, lighted by a single dim lamp suspended 
 from the ceiling. The walls were hung with 
 black; a chair, and a table, on which were placed 
 a skuU and cross bones, an hour glass, and 
 writing materials, were the only furniture. 
 
 His guide again spoke. "This," said he, 
 is the chamber of meditation; if you doubt, 
 you may draw back. Stir not from hence till I 
 return, when I will lead you to undergo your 
 ordeal, should you still nobly keep to your de- 
 termination of engaging in our cause. I need 
 not tell you not to fear, or to shrink from an 
 ordeal which you will pass through with ease, 
 though it may fright nerveless fools. I now 
 go to prepare the friends of freedom for your 
 coming ; adieu !" Saying which, the conspirator 
 disappeared through a door opposite to the one 
 by which they had entered, and which closed 
 with a loud noise behind him. 
 
 Ivan looked round, not a door was visible ; 
 he was a prisoner, he knew not where. Left to 
 his own reflections, he half repented the step he 
 had taken. 
 
 " I like not this mummery," thought he. 
 " How weak I have been to put such implicit 
 
150 THE CIRCASSIAN CHIEF. 
 
 trust in a man of whom I know so little. He 
 may, after all, have deceived me ; but it is now 
 too late to retract, and if deceived, I must suffer 
 for my foUy, and will boldly carry through the 
 adventure." He threw himself on the chair. 
 " Emblem of mortality 1" he exclaimed, looking 
 at the skuU, *' to this must we all come, and to 
 a brave man, what terrors canst thou bring ? 
 Death, what have we to fear in thee ? Why, 
 then, should I hesitate, when thou, happen what 
 may, must be the victor at last ! Thou art, at 
 the same time, the mighty despot of aU, and the 
 only true dispenser of liberty ! Thou canst 
 conquer the proudest potentates, and make aU 
 men equal — and yet I fear not thee ; then, why 
 should I fear aught else ? Time flies quickly ; I 
 learn this lesson, that one must not delay when 
 work is to be done !" His eye caught sight of 
 a sheet of paper, on which were inscribed several 
 questions. He seized the pen, and wrote appro- 
 priate answers. He remained lost in thought. 
 " Yes," he exclaimed, " the die is cast ; I will 
 plunge boldly in, nor dream of retracting." 
 
 He had just come to this conclusion, when 
 suddenly, three dark figures stood before him 
 enveloped in cloaks, and their features concealed 
 by masks. 
 
THE CIRCASSIAN CHIEF. 151 
 
 " You must consent to be for a time deprived 
 of sight," said one, "ere the true light can 
 shine on you. Are you ready to undergo your 
 ordeal ?" 
 
 "I am prepared for every ceremony neces- 
 sary," answered Ivan ; " do as you will !" 
 
 One of the dark figures advanced, a handker- 
 chief was tightly bound over his eyes, and he felt 
 his hand grasped by some one. 
 
 " Follow me," said a voice, " we have a long 
 and toilsome road to take, fuU of difficulties and 
 perils, such as you dream not of finding here ; 
 but true courage and perseverance will carry you 
 through all dangers." 
 
 " Lead on then," said Ivan, " I am eager to 
 undertake the journey." 
 
 Ivan felt that he was led from the chamber, 
 when a sudden rush of cold air met him, almost 
 stopping his breath. He then seemed to be 
 climbing over rough rocks, from which he had 
 to spring to others, following the guide's direc- 
 tions; then a torrent seemed to be rushing at 
 his feet, into which he appeared every instant to 
 be ready to fall, so slippery was the broken 
 ground. He felt himself next led up a steep 
 mountain, the ashes on its sides giving way 
 
152 THE CIRCASSIAN CHIEF. 
 
 under his feet as he climbed, till at length, he 
 reached some harder ground, when, no sooner 
 did he appear to have attained the summit, 
 than he was as quickly obliged to descend, and 
 to pass through some low and damp cavern. 
 On a sudden, his guide bidding him spring 
 forward, and dragging him at the same time, 
 enabled him to evade an icy torrent, which 
 broke overhead. On, on he went; but he 
 neither hesitated nor trembled. A loud din 
 now assailed his ears, of a strange variety of 
 confused sounds, and in a moment he found 
 himself near some immense furnace, into which 
 he appeared to be about to plunge, when his 
 guide drew him aside, as the fierce and forked 
 flames rushed after him. Again he heard a 
 loud noise, and this time it was intelligible. He 
 could distinguish the clashing of swords, the 
 shrieks of the wounded, the cries of the victors. 
 He was in the midst of some fierce combat. 
 On every side was heard the jarring sound of 
 weapons ; he felt them whirling round his head, 
 as his guide protected him ; their sharp edges 
 seemed to pass close to his ears, the struggling 
 combatants swept by him in their desperate 
 strife, but he remained unharmed. On a sud- 
 
THE CIRCASSIAN CHIEF. 153 
 
 den, the silence of death reigned around. He 
 stood alone: some one presently approached, 
 and a deep and solemn voice thus spoke — 
 
 " Ivan Galetzoff ! you have shewn that you 
 can go through the lesser dangers and difficulties 
 of life without shrinking ; but have you courage 
 to face the worst, for what you have just under- 
 gone is as nothing to what you must suffer, 
 before we can confide in you." 
 
 " I am prepared for the most terrific dangers, 
 and fear nothing." 
 
 " Stay then," said the voice ; " answer our 
 questions. Wlierefore did you come hither ?" 
 
 " To meet those who are lovers of true free- 
 dom," answered Ivan. 
 
 " You speak well," said the voice ; " are you 
 ready to devote your talents, your fortune, and 
 your life, to their sacred cause ?" 
 
 " Most willingly would I do my utmost 
 to win true Liberty for Russia," he answered. 
 
 " Are you willing to take the oaths which 
 bind aU the members of this association ?" 
 
 "I w^ould be equally bound to support 
 others, as they are to support me, but I cannot 
 pledge myself to measures of which I know not 
 the aim." 
 
 H 3 
 
154 THE CIRCASSIAN CHIEF. 
 
 " You speak sensibly," said the voice, " that 
 we do not demand. Inviolable secresy and 
 fidelity are all that is required of you, but oaths 
 must not be taken in the dark : from hence- 
 forth, may the light of liberty shine as bright 
 and purely as this flame." 
 
 At that moment, the bandage fell fi^om Ivan's 
 eyes, and he was almost blinded by a dazzling 
 and brilliant flame which burned before him. 
 On recovering his sight, he found himself 
 standing in the midst of a circle of persons, 
 the points of whose swords radiated towards 
 him. 
 
 " With these swords we swear to protect you ! 
 to gain true liberty for Russia, or to perish in 
 the attempt, with them in our hands ! — and 
 with these swords we swear to destroy any, who, 
 by word or deed, shall betray the trust reposed 
 in him ! — We swear !" uttered aU the persons 
 present. 
 
 "Our aims are these," added the first 
 speaker: " to curb the despotic power of the 
 autocrat ; to abolish the exclusive privileges of 
 the nobles ; to place every subject of Russia on 
 an equal footing of liberty ; to liberate the serfs 
 from the thraldom under which they groan ; to 
 
THE CIRCASSIAN CHIEF. 155 
 
 have but one law in the land to govern all 
 
 men." 
 
 "To these we have sworn," responded the 
 conspirators. 
 
 " Ivan GaletzofF ! are you ready to swear to 
 do your utmost to aid in the accomphshment of 
 these objects ?" 
 
 " To all this I solemnly swear !" said Ivan, 
 repeating the secret form of the oath. 
 
 No sooner had he uttered these words, than 
 the conspirators dropped the points of their 
 swords, which they had hitherto held up at his 
 breast, and advanced towards him with extended 
 hands, exclaiming — 
 
 " Welcome, our brother in the great work of 
 the regeneration of Russia !" 
 
 " We will leave you now," said he who ap- 
 peared to be the conductor of the ceremony, 
 "till it be time to summon you to the assembly 
 of members ;" sajdng which, the conspirators 
 disappeared by a number of separate doors, from 
 the chamber, which w^as much larger than the 
 one where he had been previously left, and Ivan 
 again found himself alone. 
 
 The room was vaulted, and Hghted by a 
 number of lamps, shedding a bright glare on 
 
156 THE CIRCASSIAN CHIEF. 
 
 the various devices with which it was orna- 
 mented ; but Ivan was too much occupied and 
 confused by the strange adventures he had gone 
 through to examine them. He had now 
 banished aU hesitation and doubt, ha\dng once 
 made the step from which there w^as no retract- 
 ing, and he stood with dilated eye, compressed 
 lip, and determination on his brow, boldly 
 prepared to redeem, to the utmost, the pledge 
 he had given. He had not much time left for 
 thought, when his friend, who had conducted 
 him to the place, entered, summoning him to 
 follow, and led the way down a flight of rude and 
 broken steps, through a long passage, ascending 
 to a door, through which proceeded the sound of 
 many voices. He presently found himself in a 
 rude, bat large and vaulted apartment, in the 
 centre of which was placed a long table, sur- 
 rounded by a number of persons, who rose at 
 his entrance, and he was desired to take a seat 
 by his guide, near the head of the table. As he 
 gazed around him, he recognized, to his asto- 
 nishment, the faces of several nobles whom he 
 had met in the first circles of the society of 
 Moscow, though, with the greater number of 
 persons present he was unacquainted. 
 
THE CIRCASSIAN CHIEF. 157 
 
 The association comprised men of rank, 
 fortune, and influence ; military officers ; grave 
 citizens, distinguished from the rest by their 
 beards and long coats ; and even some who ap- 
 peared to be lowly serfs. All present wore an 
 air of anxiety and eagerness on their coun- 
 tenances, conversation being carried on in an 
 under tone : meanwhile, several others entered, 
 and took their seats at the board. When all 
 were seated, the president of the meeting arose, 
 and silence ensued. He was a man long passed 
 the prime of life, of a taU and commanding 
 figure, whose expansive forehead, piercing eye, 
 and firm set lips, marked one fit to command. 
 
 " Countrymen ! Fellow Russians !" he cried, 
 " the sacred cause of liberty is advancing with 
 rapid strides, and soon may we hope to see its 
 standard unfurled, and floating proudly in the face 
 of our panic-struck enemies. To those who have 
 not yet had an opportunity of hearing our ultimate 
 ends and aims discussed, I now address myself. 
 
 " We have not combined to overthrow^ religion, 
 virtue, and honour, order, and wholesome govern- 
 ment ; no, my countrymen ! our purpose is rather 
 to confirm and strengthen them throughout the 
 land. We war alone against vice and tyranny, 
 unjust power and misrule. These shall crouch 
 
158 THE CIRCASSIAN CHIEF. 
 
 trembling before our triumphant standard. I ask 
 you, is it right — is it just, that one man should 
 rule millions, by the fiat of his will — that he 
 should be the sole and undisputed master of 
 their lives and properties ? Are Russians worthy 
 of the name of men, while they tamely submit 
 to bow their necks to so despicable a yoke? 
 Who amongst us is, for a moment, safe ? The 
 noble, the citizen, or the serf, by the single word 
 of a tyrant, may be deprived of his liberty, his 
 property, and his life; each amongst them is 
 liable to be torn from his home and family — 
 from all that is held dear and sacred, to be 
 bound in chains, and sent to pass a life of exile 
 amidst the dreary wilds of Siberia. Can we 
 longer submit to be thus enslaved ? No — -jus- 
 tice, honour, manhood forbid it ! 
 
 "We have, moreover, other enemies to contend 
 with. We must attack the privileges of those 
 vain and dastardly nobles, w^ho, bending their 
 necks to the yoke of the despot, aid and abet 
 him in his t}Tanny; for without them, how 
 could his power stand? Are not the rest of 
 their countrymen equal to them in intellect, in 
 talents, in virtue ? Why then should they be 
 allowed to hold in slavish subjection, creatures, 
 human as themselves, with the same blood and 
 
THE CIRCASSIAN CHIEF. 159 
 
 sinews, with hearts beating to the same impulses, 
 with thoughts as free, and sentiments as noble, 
 as their own ? There are many among us here 
 of aristocratic birth, disinterestedly refusing to 
 avail themselves of their privileges, and animated 
 by a spirit of the most exalted philanthropy, 
 who have arrayed their powder under the banner 
 of freedom." 
 
 The speaker paused ; his eye proudly surveyed 
 the assembly, and the countenances of all tacitly 
 echoed his sentiments. He resumed : 
 
 " My brave, my loved countrymen ! pardon 
 me for speaking of myself ; but I must do so to 
 afford you an example. I was born of the pri- 
 vileged class. I once held high rank, noble 
 possessions, unbounded wealth, and, as I thought, 
 power. I was young, and vainly fancied 
 myself happy and free. I dared to speak 
 the thoughts of my heart, which were bold 
 and free, under the impression that I was 
 too far removed from the authority of the Em- 
 peror, to fear his anger. I dared to assert the 
 right and just independence of man — to utter 
 the word liberty. Yet how had I deceived my- 
 self in my dream of impunity ; for a word 
 . spoken thoughtlessly, I was deprived of my rank, 
 
160 THE CIRCASSIAN CHIEF. 
 
 stripped of my wealth, dragged from my family, 
 and banished from my rich possessions, to the 
 barren soils of Siberia. I, who had been brought 
 up in the most luxurious indulgence, was driven 
 over hundreds of weary leagues, bare-footed, and 
 in chains, exposed to the inclemency of the 
 weather the lash of the brutal guards impelling 
 my drooping, my exhausted steps. Each time 
 that the sharp thong became crimsoned with my 
 blood, I swore deeply that no human power 
 should prevent me from returning, and straining 
 every nerve to overthrow the tyranny which 
 could allow such atrocious barbarities to be per- 
 petrated. I passed many years in banishment, 
 forgotten, and unknown. At length, I escaped, to 
 return to my native city ; and here again I vow 
 to accomplish that noble purpose, or to perish in 
 the attempt. Russians, you know my history — 
 many here will remember my name. The same 
 fate may await any of you, when least expected ; 
 and thus you are all equally interested in rescuing 
 oui' countiy from so abject a thraldom. 
 
 "Is it not preposterous — is it not shameful, 
 that men who, with the light of education, have 
 by their own exertions gained wealth, must still 
 wear the vile mark of bondage; that they cannot 
 
THE CIRCASSIAN CHIEF. 161 
 
 without their masters' will be free, and that their 
 children must be brought up as slaves! 
 
 "To liberate the serfs from their state of galling 
 vassalage, is, in itself, a great and noble work. 
 No sooner shall the bright folds of the standard 
 of liberty be displayed, than thousands, tens of 
 thousands of that now debased class, arousing 
 from their lethargy, will flock around it, and 
 proclaim the regeneration of Russia! For this 
 cause we are all ready to shed our blood; and, 
 again do I swear never to sheath my sword till 
 our holy, our glorious object is accomplished." 
 
 Every man simultaneously animated by the 
 same spirit, stood up, and with one accord, draw- 
 ing their weapons, exclaimed together "We 
 swear to accomplish the regeneration of Russia, 
 or to die in the attempt." 
 
 The president was succeeded by several of the 
 conspirators, who in their turn rose to address 
 the meeting. Some were fierce and fiery cha- 
 racters, to whom mild measures were distasteful, 
 and who would be satisfied with nothing short of 
 the total overthrow of the Imperial family ; the 
 abrogation of all the privileges and titles of no- 
 bility ; and the estabhshment of a republic, in 
 which each member of the government should 
 be elected by ballot. Ivan was at first carried 
 
162 THE CIRCASSIAN CHIEF. 
 
 away by the enthusiasm, and force of eloquence 
 displayed by some, but he soon discovered, that 
 many were actuated by motives far different from 
 those which they professed; some by vindictive 
 feelings ; others by the anticipation of succeeding 
 to offices and employments, from which the 
 present occupiers would be thrust. Some, 
 banki'upt in purse and character, hoped to reap 
 a harvest amid the general confusion, which 
 must ensue on a revolution, having themselves 
 nothing to risk ; but few of the whole number 
 perhaps, were solely influenced by the exalted 
 principles of Hberty. 
 
 The meeting, after numerous speeches, and 
 discussions, at length broke up; no plan of pro- 
 ceedings ha\dng yet been arranged. The conspi- 
 rators departed a few at a time, each man as 
 he reached the open air, shrouding himself in his 
 cloak, and bending his steps in various directions 
 across the mass of ruins, so that no two persons 
 sought the same path at the same time. 
 
 As Ivan was about to depart, he was accosted 
 
 by the friend who had brought him to the 
 
 meeting. 
 
 " You have acted well, and nobly," said he ; 
 
 and I trust that you may never have reason to 
 
 repent, that you have engaged in this just cause. 
 
THE CIRCASSIAN CHIEF. 163 
 
 Ere we go, I will explain to you the secrets 
 of this place of meeting. This large vaulted 
 chamber was a cellar belonging to a mansion, 
 destroyed at the burning of the city, during the 
 French occupation. The former inhabitants of 
 the place have all died, or have left Moscow; 
 and no one knows of this vault, save the owner 
 of the new house, and he is one of the principal 
 and most active members of the Association. 
 He discovered the vault amid the ruins, and 
 prepared it for our meetings: he himself never 
 approaching it, except at night, and by the 
 many secret exits, he has formed with in- 
 defatigable labour. In every avenue are trusty 
 guards in various disguises, so that there is 
 but little likelihood of a surprise; yet, should 
 we by any chance be discovered, we are prepared 
 to sell our lives dearly. I will now lead you 
 forth; follow — but at a short distance behind me." 
 Threading several passages, they gained the open 
 air, and passing from the garden by a different 
 gate, to that by which they had entered, after a 
 short walk, Ivan found himself in a part of the 
 city, with which he was acquainted; his guide 
 then bidding him farewell, he returned to his 
 temporary home. 
 
164 THE CIRCASSIAN CHIEF. 
 
 CHAPTER X. 
 
 With fawning wordes he courted her awhile. 
 And looking lovely and oft sighing sore. 
 Her constant hart did tempt with diverse guile : 
 But wordes, and lookes, and sighs she did abhore ; 
 As rock of diamond stedfast evermore. 
 
 THE FAERY QUEENE. 
 
 It has been the constant aim of the Imperial 
 Court to draw within its focus the noblesse from 
 aU quarters of the Empire, with a view to keep 
 them more entirely under the eye of govern- 
 ment, tempting them with ribbons, stars, and 
 titles. 
 
 However well the plan has succeeded with 
 the poorer nobles and many indeed of the more 
 powerful, attracted by the pomp and magnifi- 
 cence of St. Petersburg, no lures have been 
 found to decoy others equally rich and influen- 
 tial, who prefer the independence and freedom 
 they enjoy in their palaces at Moscow, and 
 
THE CIRCASSIAN CHIEF. 165 
 
 country-seats, to the formality and tedious eti- 
 quette of the court. The Czar, therefore, natu- 
 rally regards with a jealous eye, those who 
 shun his presence, — as inimical to his rule, and 
 none more so perhaps, than the proud and 
 wealthy patricians of Moscow, known to possess 
 the liberal principles so subversive of despotism : 
 men who prefer to reside with their families 
 among the ancient retainers of their house, and 
 to enjoy the freedom, and surpassing beauty of 
 their native city. 
 
 Not so, however, the Count Erintoff; he 
 kept at a distance from the court, and the eye 
 of authority, that he might enjoy greater license 
 for his vices and profligacy. His palace stood 
 in the environs of the city, and was furnished 
 with all the magnificence and luxiu-y for which 
 his fortune gave ample means. 
 
 It was a stately mansion, and had been rebuilt 
 after the conflagration by his father ; a noble- 
 man every way qualified to fiU the high station 
 he held; but who with culpable indulgence had not 
 paid that attention to the education of his son, 
 which would qualify him to be a worthy suc- 
 cessor to himself Magnificent mirrors and 
 pictures adorned the walls ; couches and hang- 
 
166 THE CIRCASSIAN CHIEF. 
 
 ings from the East ; objects of virtu from Italy ; 
 of decoration, from France ; and furniture and 
 all the appm'tenances of comfort from Eng- 
 land, fiEed the rooms. 
 
 The Count was pacing through his spacious 
 galleries with hasty steps, when a servant sub- 
 missively approached him. 
 
 " How now knave ! what want you here ?" 
 said the Count, angrily ; without noticing the 
 person of the intruder. 
 
 " I come to bring you the information you 
 sent me to gain," answered the man. " I have 
 been partly successful." 
 
 " Ah, Groff ! is it you, faithful \dUain. I did 
 not expect you so soon," said the noble. " What 
 is the information you bring me ? for if I 
 recoUect right, you had a variety of commissions 
 to perform." 
 
 "Why, what I should think would please 
 you most — about the Gipsy girl, who before 
 slipped through oui' fingers," answered the 
 man. 
 
 " What of her, knave ?" said the Count, in 
 an angry tone at his sei^vant's freedom of speech ; 
 but the man seemed unmoved as he answered, 
 " She is now in Moscow, I passed her just now 
 
THE CIRCASSIAN CHIEF. J 67 
 
 on my way here, and I have formed a plan by 
 which I think I can induce her to come 
 here." 
 
 " Tell me not of your plans, knave !" an- 
 swered the Count. " I require no suggestion but 
 must have execution, and you shall then have 
 the reward I promised. But say, when do 
 you expect to succeed with this most notable plan 
 you talk of? The girl is not to be entrapped so 
 easily as you anticipate." 
 
 " By to-morrow at furthest, or perchance this 
 very day, if my messenger can find the girl, 
 though he may have some difficulty in falling in 
 with her ; but you may have changed your 
 mind, Sir. Is it still your pleasure that she 
 come here ?" 
 
 "Yes, knave; and mark me, if you fail and 
 disappoint me, you shall suffer!" said the Count. 
 " Now, tell me quickly, how you hope to suc- 
 ceed ; let me hear all you have to say." 
 
 "In the first place, fortune has favoured us. Sir," 
 said Groff, "for while I was out concerning 
 the aifairs you sent me on, it appears that two 
 Gipsy boys were singing and playing in front of 
 the palace, to the idle porters and other ser- 
 vants, when a dro^y, driven furiously by, 
 
168 THE CIRCASSIAN CHIEF. 
 
 knocked one of them down, and left him sense- 
 less on the ground. I know not how it was, 
 but Kruntz and some of the other men, were 
 seized with a fit of humanity, and brought the 
 woimded boy within the palace, and when his 
 companion was crying over him, some of them 
 bathed his bruises and hurts. I arrived at that 
 time, ha^dng just encountered the damsel of the 
 same race where I told you. A thought struck 
 me, that I might turn the accident to some ac- 
 count. I found that the boys did not know in 
 whose palace they were ; and after some talk 
 with the one who was not wounded, I contrived 
 to learn that he belonged to the same tribe as 
 the girl you are in search of. I accordingly 
 hinted to the boy, where she was likely to be 
 found, and persuaded him to set off, in order to 
 bring her to his brother, as she was better able 
 to cure him than any doctor. I told him, 
 therefore, that this was the palace of the Prince 
 Raziminski, into which she will not fear to 
 enter ; and having dii^ected him to mark it weU 
 so as not to forget it, sent him off to bring her 
 here immediately. Have I done weE, Sir ?" 
 
 " I have no gi'eat expectation, that your ill- 
 contrived scheme will succeed," answered the 
 
THE CIRCASSIAN CHIEF. 169 
 
 Count, stiffly ; " I know she will not come ! 
 What else have you to communicate ?" 
 
 " Somewhat with respect to the son of the 
 Baron Galetzoff. I think Sir, you may soon 
 have your revenge on him." 
 
 " Ah !" exclaimed the Count, looking deeply 
 interested, " what of that youth ? could I wreak 
 my vengeance on him, and win the girl into the 
 bargain, I should be contented. What have you 
 to say of him ?" 
 
 "Why, Sir," replied Groff, "I have dis- 
 covered where he resides, and have dogged his 
 steps constantly; once or twice I have been 
 nearly discovered ; but have hitherto eluded him 
 successfully. I know all his haunts, his habits 
 and his movements ; and I find that he constantly 
 passes a spot where a dagger might reach his 
 bosom, without fear of the deed being dis- 
 covered. You have thus a full opportunity of 
 satisfying your vengeance." 
 
 " What, \Tllain !" exclaimed the noble, indig- 
 nantly, " do you think that I have become a 
 common assassin, to strike my enemy in the 
 dark ? I would have revenge ; but not such as 
 your dull brain can invent. In what part of the 
 city, do you say you have seen him ?" 
 
 VOL. I. I 
 
170 THE CIRCASSIAN CHIEF. 
 
 Groff mentioned a part of Moscow, near the 
 spot where the conspirators held their meet- 
 ings. 
 
 " And at what time did he usually pass by ?" 
 
 " Soon after sun-set," answered Groff. " I 
 marked him on his way from the hotel; but 
 each time I lost sight of him, soon after he 
 passed that spot : I have then waited for hours 
 till his return ; but before long, I hope to dis- 
 cover w^here he vanishes to, and he wiU be clever 
 if he again escapes me. I have my suspicions, 
 that he is not the only person who visits that 
 part of the city by stealth ; for I confess that I have 
 twice made a mistake, and followed different 
 people, when I was in search of him." 
 
 " That must be looked to," said the Count, 
 " we may find that something is going forward 
 worth discovering; beware, that you do not 
 make a mistake. For myself, I would not 
 imbue my hands with blood. It would be but 
 slight satisfaction to feel my dagger entering his 
 bosom, and his warm life-blood streaming from 
 the wound : I leave those feelings to the pas- 
 sionate, fiery-blooded Italians. Yet, mark me 
 Grofi! I hate the young Galetzoff, and it 
 would be enough for me to know that he had 
 ceased to live. There are many dark lanes in 
 
THE CIRCASSIAN CHIEF. 171 
 
 Moscow, and the Istvostchiks are great villains, 
 and often commit murder with no better object, 
 than for the sake of the paltry sums a person 
 may have about him; you understand me. I 
 loathe the very sight of that youth. He faces 
 me with the coolest indifference, as if he had 
 not injured me to the utmost ; and yet there is 
 something in his eye, when he meets my gaze, 
 by which I have strong suspicions that he knows 
 me. I cannot rest till I am revenged on him. 
 You will probably win one reward, and here take 
 half for what you have already done, in earnest 
 of the future." 
 
 The Count then tendered a purse which 
 Groff weighed in his hand, as if to consider 
 whether the bribe w^as high enough for the 
 deed. "I will do my best to please you. Sir," 
 he answered. 
 
 " Enough, I need now say no more then ; 
 ten times the sum you hold in your hand 
 shall be yours, if, by chance, I hear of that youth's 
 death. The police are not over vigilant in those 
 matters, and I think the Baron will take no 
 great pains to discover the author of his son's 
 death, for he seems not to have much love for 
 him. Now leave me, and think well on what I 
 
 I 2 
 
172 THE CIRCASSIAN CHIEF. 
 
 have said. Should the Gipsy girl fall into your 
 snare, let me immediately know of her arrival : 
 but take care that she does not see your face — that 
 alone is enough to frighten her, and she would 
 remember it. See that the wounded boy is well 
 tended, that he may learn to speak weU of the 
 owner of the mansion ; and let the girl remain 
 some time with him, if possible, ere I go to 
 her." 
 
 As soon as Groff had disappeared, the Count 
 continued his walk through the corridor. " For- 
 tune seems to favour me," he soliloquized ; " as 
 to young Galetzoff, I need trouble myself no 
 more ; — his fate is sealed ! I saw that in the 
 look that villain Groff gave, as I promised him 
 the gold ! His eyes glistened as he seemed 
 eager to clutch it. He is a faithful ruffian, and 
 well earns his reward. Such slaves as he, would 
 sell their very souls for gold ; and I, some would 
 say, would sell mine ; but oh ! for what ? — Not 
 for gold ; no ; — for revenge — for love — for power 
 — a worthy exchange too ! What would life be 
 worth, if one could not enjoy aU three ? 
 
 " That Gipsy maiden has enchained me. I 
 scarce know why, but, though lowly her lot, 
 there is a fascination about her which I cannot 
 withstand. I must win her at all hazards in 
 
THE CIRCASSIAN CHIEF. 173 
 
 some way. Either gold or flattery must gain 
 her ; she must be more than woman if she holds 
 out ag-ainst the two combined. And if she 
 does, with that proud and haughty air she 
 possesses, she is worthy to become the Countess 
 Erintoff, though that is an alternative I would 
 avoid. Bah ! I cannot think I shall be brought 
 so low as to sue at the feet of a Gipsy !" 
 
 While the Count was thus uttering his 
 thoughts aloud, Groff returned. 
 
 " Success attends us, Sir," he exclaimed. 
 " The maiden is at length safe within your 
 palace, from whence she may have some diffi- 
 culty in escaping, though she firmly believes 
 that she is under the roof of the most grave and 
 \drtuous Prince Raziminski, and continues heap- 
 ing blessings on his head, for his charity in pro- 
 tecting one of her tribe." 
 
 " Enough, knave ! the reward shall be yours," 
 said the Count. " In what part of the palace 
 have they put the boy ?" 
 
 " I will lead you to it, Sir," answered Groff, 
 " for I doubt if alone you could find the room." 
 
 " Shew me to it then, and leave me," said 
 the Count ; " your presence would alarm the 
 maiden !" 
 
 Savins; which, he followed Groff down several 
 
174 THE CIRCASSIAN CHIEF. 
 
 flights of steps, and through long passages to a 
 room in the lower part of the palace. He then 
 waited at the half open door, through which he 
 heard the sound of voices. 
 
 " I thought that few of the nobles of this 
 city possessed charity sufficient to shelter a 
 humble Gipsy boy ; but I see that I am mis- 
 taken, and may blessings rest on the head of the 
 good and kind Prince," said Azila. 
 
 *' He is indeed, kind," said one of the boys, 
 " for he has sent us abundance of good things 
 to eat, and his servants told us we should have 
 more, and that he would send us away with 
 plenty of money in our pockets." 
 
 " He will not go unrewarded. See, Conrin ! 
 I have bound up your brother's arm, and he 
 wiU now do well, and if the kind Prince will 
 let you remain, you must take charge of him, 
 for I have matters of importance to attend to, 
 and must away !" 
 
 Hearing this, the Count moved from the 
 door, and went in search of a servant. 
 
 " Go quickly," said he, " to the chamber 
 where the wounded boy and the Gipsy girl are, 
 and say that the Prince — mark you, the Prince, 
 your master, desires to see her, ere she departs, 
 to inquire how her brother fares ; then con- 
 
THE CIRCASSIAN CHIEF. 175 
 
 duct her to the state apartment. Guard her 
 well, and see that she escapes not, by any 
 chance." 
 
 The Count repaired immediately to the mag- 
 nificent room he had mentioned, to await the 
 coming of Azila. The floor was covered with 
 rich Turkey carpets ; superb pictures, and 
 mirrors, reaching from the ground to the highly 
 embossed cieling, ornamented the walls, the 
 latter reflecting the luxurious and handsome 
 frimiture which filled the room, while from the 
 windows was seen an extensive view of the beau- 
 tiful city of Moscow. 
 
 " Though other means have failed," he said, 
 " I will try if she is not to be tempted by this 
 display of magnificence and luxury to become 
 the mistress here. Surely a girl, brought up 
 beneath a skin-covered tent, cannot resist such 
 a temptation ; and if so, my conquest is easy." 
 
 He stood partly concealed by the thick dra- 
 pery of the curtains ; a light step approached ; 
 Azila entered the apartment, and the door was 
 closed behind her. She was dressed in the 
 same graceful costume as when Ivan and Thad- 
 deus had first seen her, except that a cloak, 
 worn over her dress, almost concealed her 
 form. She advanced to the centre of the apart- 
 
176 THE CIRCASSIAN CHIEF. 
 
 ment, ere she had perceived the Count, when he 
 turned towards her. She started slightly as 
 she saw him, but betrayed no other sign of 
 trepidation or fear. 
 
 " I must have been deceived,'' she said. " I 
 came to thank the noble Prince Raziminski for 
 his kindness and charity to a wounded boy of 
 my tribe ; but it seems that to you is due the 
 credit of that charitable deed. I will send some 
 of our people to take away the child, and beg 
 to offer you our grateful thanks for your charity 
 in taking care of him. With your leave I will 
 now depart." 
 
 She was turning to go, when the Count ad- 
 vanced somewhat nearer towards her. 
 
 " Lovely girl," he said, with an impassioned 
 air, " I took advantage of the boy's accident, 
 and used an excusable artifice to draw you here. 
 I sought but to see you, to convince you of the 
 ardour — the truth of my affection. Believe me, 
 that I regret the violence I before used, which 
 your coldness — your. -ernelty compelled me to 
 resort to. Let me hear my pardon from those 
 lips, beautiful maiden ! 'tis all I ask for !" 
 
 " For the favour you have done to one of my 
 tribe, I would endeavour to forget any injury 
 
THE CIRCASSIAN CHIEF. 177 
 
 you would have caused me. Beyond this, I have 
 nothing to forgive: I bear you no malice, 
 noble Lord ! and all I now ask is leave to 
 depart," said Azila. 
 
 " Still haughty and cold ! why this indiffe- 
 rence ? you know not the love — the passion — 
 with which your charms have inspired my 
 bosom. Surely it cannot be in your nature to 
 be thus so cruel to me, who love you to despe- 
 ration, who would do ought to please you. 
 Behold this spacious palace ! these magnificent 
 chambers ! Are they, not superior to your skin- 
 covered tents ? Remain, and you shall be mis- 
 tress of all ; numberless servants will obey you ; 
 sumptuous fare shall be served to you ; bound- 
 less wealth shall be at your command. Every 
 luxury and indulgence which love can invent 
 shall surround you, if you will but consent to 
 accept them at my hands. Whatever you may 
 desire — any thing — every thing shaU be granted 
 to you?" 
 
 " I make but one simple demand," answered 
 the maiden. " It is to be allowed to depart, free 
 as I came ; — more I cannot say." 
 
 " Have you no other answer to make than 
 that, cruel, inexorable maiden ? Hear me 1" 
 
 I 3 
 
178 THE CIRCASSIAN CHIEF. 
 
 exclaimed the Count, throwing himself at her 
 feet, and seizing her hand, which she vainly en- 
 deavoured to disengage. " Hear me ! I love, 
 I adore you to desperation ; your very coldness 
 has inflamed my passion ! the bright glance of 
 your eyes consumes me ; the sweet tones of your 
 voice thrill through my frame, and drive me to 
 madness at the thought of losing you ! I can- 
 not exist without you. Hear me once again ! 
 I offer you wealth, power, unbounded luxury ! 
 T offer you more — my name — my rank — for 
 well could you, as the Countess Erintoff, grace 
 that station. Speak, ere I die at your feet, for 
 t rise not tiU you give me hopes of life and hap- 
 piness with you." 
 
 Azila for an instant seemed moved, and 
 turned aside her head, to avoid his fixed gaze ; 
 but there was no answering softness in the ex- 
 pression of her full bright eye. 
 
 She spoke at length : " Rise, noble Lord ! 
 rise, you but demean yourself by thus bending 
 before one humble as myself ! I am grateful for 
 your generous offers, but I cannot accept them. 
 A captive can make no just conditions with his 
 jailor, and I still ask but one favour ; to depart 
 as I came." 
 
THE CIRCASSIAN CHIEF. 179 
 
 The Count started from the ground, asto- 
 nishment and rising fury blending in his look. 
 
 " Can that heart," he exclaimed, " be so 
 frozen by the frosts of winter, that it is callous 
 to the voice of love ? But no, it would be con- 
 trary to the law of nature, it is impossible ! 
 Maiden, you love another ! I know it — answer 
 me — ^is it not the truth? By heavens! I 
 cannot brook a rival in your love, and he shall 
 deeply rue it !" 
 
 As the Count spoke, a blush did now for the 
 first time rise on her cheeks and brow, and as 
 he went on threatening his vengeance, with 
 furious action against his rival, the colour again 
 forsook her face, and left her as she then stood 
 in an unintentionally commanding attitude ; like 
 some lovely statue of a goddess uttering her 
 commands to mortals. 
 
 " If my love is given to another, why ask me 
 for what I no longer possess ? but I say not, that 
 it is so. Again I ask to depart ; for in no way, 
 while an imwilling prisoner, could I make any 
 engagements with my captor." 
 
 The Count advanced furiously again to seize 
 her hand, but she started back a step from 
 him. 
 
180 THE CIRCASSIAN CHIEF. 
 
 " Gii'l," he cried, " think you I can tamely 
 submit to be thus despised, to have my love — 
 my devotion trampled on. Again I ask you, 
 consent to return here — to become my Coun- 
 tess ! to accept my love, and you are free <o 
 depart ; my carriage shall then convey you 
 where you will." 
 
 " It cannot be," answered Azila, firmly, " I 
 have but to repeat my former words." 
 
 " Rash girl, your obduracy has driven me to 
 madness, and the blame must rest on your own 
 head I" exclaimed the Count, again springing 
 forward to seize her ; but she calmly retreated, 
 placing her hand beneath her vest. 
 
 " Proud noble, forbear ! I fear you not, for 1 
 venture not abroad without the means of defend- 
 ing myself, since you first taught me the neces- 
 sity of so doing. Advance another step, and you 
 either destroy me or yourself." The Count 
 seemed again about to spring forward, when 
 she drew a dagger from beneath her vest, and 
 pointed it to her bosom. 
 
 " See," she said, " my weapon is of so fine a 
 tempered steel, that even my feeble arm will 
 suffice to protect me." 
 
 The Count stood astounded; he seemed 
 
THE CIRCASSIAN CHIEF. 181 
 
 fearful of advancing, and unable to speak, as she 
 continued : 
 
 "Now let me depart, lead the way and 
 I will follow you. See ! I hold my firmest 
 protector to my bosom, so attempt not to 
 stop me, or the first hand that is laid on me 
 will be the signal of my death. I fear not to die, 
 so think not to detain me ; with full confidence 
 I leave the boys of my tribe under your care." 
 
 The Count exclaimed, " Inexplicable girl ! 
 you have conquered for a time ; I now obey you ! 
 but you have kindled an inextinguishable flame 
 within my bosom, which will consume us both. 
 We must soon meet again. I will lead the way as 
 you desire." 
 
 Uttering these words, the Count led the way 
 from the apartment towards the hall of entrance, 
 where the domestics stood with amazed looks, 
 as their haughty lord passed, followed by the 
 humble Gipsy girl. The portal stood open as 
 Azila passed out, bowing coldly to the Count, 
 when he stepped aside to allow her to pass ; she 
 did not cast a glance at the others who were 
 present. She seemed more like some distin- 
 guished guest respectfully attended to the en- 
 trance of the mansion by her host, than one of 
 
182 THE CIRCASSIAN CHIEF. 
 
 a despised and lowly race, escaping from the 
 toils of a proud and libertine noble. 
 
 The Count retreated to the upper apartments 
 of his sumptuous palace, moody, and furious at 
 his defeat. The ruffian Groff was then sum- 
 moned to attend him. 
 
 " Hear me, villain," he exclaimed, " the 
 youth I spoke of must die ! I will have no 
 doubt or hesitation on your part. The sum I 
 promised you, when I hear of his death, shall be 
 doubled ; although you have enough to revenge 
 for your own sake, without requiring any other 
 stimulant. Mark me ! he has again crossed 
 my path, so let there be no delay, for I cannot 
 longer endure the thought that he should 
 triumph over me." 
 
 " Your orders are sufficiently clear," Sir, an- 
 swered Groff, " and they shall be obeyed without 
 fear of the consequences. I am not a man to 
 hesitate in my duty to so generous a master ; 
 and perhaps you wiU recollect that my first 
 plan succeeded as far as it was in my power ; 
 the ultimate failure will be no fault of mine." 
 
 " I imderstand you, knave, you would receive 
 your wages as you proceed ; here, take this 
 purse, it contains a trifle in comparison with 
 
THE CIRCASSIAN CHIEF. 183 
 
 the sum you will be soon possessed of, if I do 
 not mistake. Now begone ! and let me not see 
 your face till you can bring me the news I wish 
 to hear." 
 
 Groff departed, and the Count continued 
 pacing the floor with feelings, of which few would 
 envy him the possession. 
 
184 THE CIRCASSIAN CHIEF. 
 
 CHAPTER XL 
 
 Ere the bat hath flown 
 His cloister'd flight ; ere to black Hecate summons, 
 The shard borne beetle, with his drowsy hums, 
 Hath rung night's yawning peal — there shall be done 
 A deed of dreadful note. 
 
 SHAKESPEARE. 
 
 It was a dark and stormy night. The wind 
 blew in violent and fitful gusts through the ill- 
 lighted and irregular streets, now and then 
 entirely extinguishing some of the few strag- 
 gling lamps, while the remainder gave but a 
 feeble and uncertain light, as the rain rushed 
 down in torrents, making the road and pathway 
 slippery with slime and mud. 
 
 The night had just closed in ; yet, notwith- 
 standing the inclemency and boisterousness of the 
 weather, and the difficulties of the road, persons 
 
THE CIRCASSIAN CHIEF. 185 
 
 were still wandering abroad on various avo- 
 cations, when a figure closely muffled in a large 
 cloak, (apparently to shield himself from the 
 tempest), issued from a side door of the palace 
 of the Count Erintoff. He walked hastily along, 
 keeping on the darker sides of the streets, as 
 if to av(5id recognition, and paused not till he 
 reached the hotel where Ivan had taken up 
 his abode. He remained concealed beneath the 
 shelter of a porch, on the opposite side of the 
 street, into which no gleam of light penetrated ; 
 though a lamp, burning in the doorway of the 
 hotel, enabled him to command a distinct view 
 of all who might enter, or depart. Thrusting his 
 hand in his bosom, he thus muttered to himself: 
 
 " Ah 1 most trusty weapon, thou art not 
 likely to fail me, if my arm proves true. 
 Far better is the silent and sharp dagger to 
 do such a deed, than the noisy and treache- 
 rous pistol, which has often failed a better 
 man than myself, on a like occasion; yet, 1 
 did well to bring my noisy friend, in case, by 
 any chance, the first should fail to strike home. 
 — Ah ! some one approaches." 
 
 Groff, for it was he, drew farther back into 
 the shade, to prevent himself from being seen 
 
186 THE CIRCASSIAN CHIEF. 
 
 by the stranger who was about to pass. At 
 that moment, a person with a light and active 
 step, completely shielded from the weather, 
 walked quickly by, so that Groff could catch a 
 glance of his features. He had not long to 
 remain after this on his watch, when a figure 
 appeared at the door of the hotel, whom he 
 guessed must be his intended victim ; for having 
 cast a look at the dark and clouded sky, 
 the person issued forth in the direction Groff 
 expected him to take. The ruffian accordingly 
 emerged from his hiding place, and stealthily 
 followed, at a short distance, the steps of his 
 hoped for prey. 
 
 It was impossible to distinguish the figures 
 of anybody, on such a night, v^apped up as 
 all were who ventured abroad; but Groff felt 
 that he could not be mistaken, both from 
 seeing his intended victim issue from the 
 hotel in which Ivan resided, and from the 
 dii'ection he was taking. 
 
 The person walked rapidly along, threading 
 the intricate and obscure streets, without hesi- 
 tation ; every now and then, however, drawing 
 his cloak closer around him, and casting a 
 hurried look behind, as if to observe if he was 
 
THE CIRCASSIAN CHIEF. 187 
 
 followed. On these occasions, GrofF contrived 
 to shrink under the shade of some buttress, 
 or projecting wall. Owing to his being perfectly 
 well acquainted with the streets, and knowing 
 each turning the person would probably take, 
 he was enabled, successfully to dodge his 
 footsteps, tiU he had arrived in the neigh- 
 bourhood of the mansion previously described, 
 in the garden of which the meetings of the 
 conspirators were held. The man there stopped, 
 and looked cautiously around, retracing his 
 steps for a short distance, as if to assure him^ 
 self that he had not been followed ; throwing 
 a scrutinizing glance, as he hfted his hand 
 to shade his eyes, down two or three narrow 
 lanes, which there turned off from that along 
 which he had passed. He seemed, however, 
 satisfied, and was about to pass on. 
 
 " Now is my time," thought Groff, who had 
 hidden beneath a dark arch way, " I will now 
 rush forward, and strike him, to make sure, 
 and save myself a long and disagreeable watch ; 
 but he looks as if prepared for danger, and I 
 may find a warmer reception than I wish, or 
 he may cry out and give the alarm, before I 
 have time to escape." 
 
188 THE CIRCASSIAN CHIEF. 
 
 While GrofF was thus debating with himself, 
 the person again walked on, unconscious of 
 the danger he had so narrowly just escaped ; 
 and the assassin, fearful of being discovered 
 after his evident wariness, if he pursued him 
 further, concealed himself carefully under an 
 arch, let into a wall, which had at one time 
 served as an entrance to the garden behind it ; 
 but, for some reason, the inner part was now 
 blocked up with stones, leaving, however, a 
 recess sufficiently deep for a person to hide 
 within it. 
 
 " Here I will await his return," muttered 
 GrofF; " he has never yet failed to pass this 
 way, and I have well marked his figure, so 
 that I should know him if there was but a 
 glimpse of light. I wish I had followed him 
 to find out where he goes to, for there may^be 
 some secret worth knowing in that. It is an odd 
 place for a person to come to so constantly, 
 and I should make a fine thing of it, if I 
 discovered any hidden plot, which the Count 
 could reveal to the Emperor; it would bring 
 him into high favour, and I, his follower, would 
 benefit by it. I might easily manage to get 
 rid of the youth in some other place, and if I 
 
THE CIRCASSIAN CHIEF. 189 
 
 slay him now, I lose my opportunity. But no ! 
 one scheme is but a chance, while his death wiU 
 give me a certainty of reward." 
 
 Having thus made up his mind, Groff re- 
 mained in concealment for two or three hours, 
 till he began almost to fear that his victim 
 had escaped, by passing some other way. He 
 watched with breathless expectation — anxiously 
 looking forth from his place of shelter. The 
 rain stiU feU in torrents, and flashes of lightning 
 now and then darted from the heavens. One 
 flash, brighter than the others, almost blinded 
 him, as he grasped his dagger firmly in his 
 hand; but he was no coward, though but a 
 common ruflian, and he did not tremble. He 
 again drew back, and listened attentively. Foot- 
 steps approached, he could not be mistaken ; 
 he heard the light and quick step advancing — 
 nearer and nearer it came — he feared to breathe 
 lest the sound might reach his victim's ears — 
 he more firmly clutched his dagger. With one 
 foot advanced — his arm raised ready to strike, 
 he stood pressing his body against the wall; 
 he could distinguish the very breathing of him 
 who was approaching. The figure fiUed the 
 arch-way — the assassin sprang from his laii', 
 
190 THE CIRCASSIAN CHIEF. . 
 
 his dagger's point towards the breast of his 
 victim. The hghtning flashed brightly in 
 forked streaks from the sky and played round 
 the blue steel, but it failed to bring heaven's 
 vengeance, as it glanced before the eyes of the 
 doomed one. He started back, but, alas, too 
 late I the sharp point pierced his bosom. Too 
 firmly was the assassin's arm nerved; deep — 
 — deep, he drove his murderous weapon home ; 
 his whole force was in the thrust. Loud rolling 
 peals of thunder reverberated through the 
 heavens, as the w^ork of blood was doing, and 
 drowned the dying groan of the murdered man. 
 Hea\aly he fell, struck down by the force of 
 the blow\ No sigh escaped his breast ; but 
 the foul midnight murderer was not content; 
 drawing the reeking steel from the wound, 
 his teeth grinding with fury, his eyes starting 
 fi*om his head, he plunged it again, and again, 
 to the very hilt, into the bosom of the fallen 
 man, the warm blood spouting from each fresh 
 wound, and dyeing his hands. He stooped down, 
 tearing aside the cloak and vest, seeking with 
 eager haste, to feel the bosom of him whom 
 he had slain, to find if perchance it yet palpi- 
 tated with life ; but well and truly had he 
 
THE CIRCASSIAN CHIEF. 191 
 
 done his work ; a deep deadly wound had 
 pierced that heart, which, but a few moments 
 before, had beat with confidence — true patrio- 
 tism — high hopes and aspirations ; inflicted by 
 his foul hand. 
 
 For a moment, a gleam of satisfaction passed 
 through the murderer's bosom that his work 
 was accomplished, and his reward gained ; but 
 an instant afterwards, and oh ! for ten thousand 
 worlds would none have exchanged the most 
 wretched poverty for the feelings which pos- 
 sessed him. It was his first cold, deliberate, 
 mercenary shedding of blood ; he felt himself to 
 be an accursed wretch on the earth. 
 
 He could not fly, a fascination chained him to 
 the spot; his fingers were clammy with blood, thick 
 clotted to his dagger's handle. He sought for a 
 pool that he had stepped in near the spot ; he 
 tried to wash away the damning stains, but he 
 knew that to be impossible. 
 
 In the exciting moment of the murder, he had 
 been thoughtless of the blood which flowed over 
 him, but he now observed that he was covered 
 with it. The rain again fell in torrents, he stood 
 exposed to its fury, to let it wash away the stain. 
 It re\4ved him ; his thoughts again returned to 
 
192 THE CIRCASSIAN CHIEF. 
 
 their accustomed channel. The recollection of 
 the money, for which he had done the deed, re- 
 curred to him ; avarice seized his heart, and he 
 remembered that, perchance, the mui'dered man 
 might have gold about him. 
 
 He now neither trembled nor hesitated, as he felt 
 about the body of his ^dctim. With joy he clutch- 
 ed a purse, by the size and weight of which he 
 knew it must contain gold; he felt in the breast, 
 he drew from thence a packet of letters ; a thought 
 struck him that they might be of use to his mas- 
 ter; he also possessed himself of watch and jewels. 
 He was satisfied : no regret, no compunction for 
 the deed oppressed him. His callous indiffe- 
 rence had returned ; an idea then occurred to 
 him — horrid — diabolical. He searched around, 
 to find some large stones, and with all his force 
 he dashed one on the head of the murdered 
 man ; he seized another, and another, and hurled 
 them with fury on the head of his ^dctim, till he 
 knew that every feature must be obliterated. 
 
 Again the lightning flashed brightly, and 
 shewed him his work. He gazed on the ghastly 
 spectacle ; the thunder rolled terrificaEy, and 
 seemed about to cast its bolts on his head. 
 Even the assassin, callous and hardy as he was, 
 
THE CIRCASSIAN CHIEF. - 193 
 
 now trembled, he could stand no more, and fled 
 hastily from his cursed work. On — on — he 
 went, nor dared to look behind him, for he felt 
 himself pursued by some phantom of tremen- 
 dous, of horrid aspect. There was a weight at 
 his breast, his brain burned ; he longed to 
 shriek, to give vent to his feelings; but his voice 
 seemed choked, he could utter no sound. He 
 felt a longing desire to rush into fierce strife, to 
 find more and more to slay, more to destroy. 
 He was like the tiger who has once tasted of 
 blood ; nothing could slake his thirst ; blood — 
 blood he longed for, and still he fled away from 
 that he had first spilled; but bethought he could 
 blot out, with fresh blood, the remembrance of 
 that dreadful deed. 
 
 He was flying on, a sort of brute instinct 
 guiding his way, when he was called to his 
 senses, by the loud challenge of a sentry from 
 some government building. In a moment, he 
 was again himself, the bold, careless ruflian ; he 
 answered calmly to the challenge, and was al- 
 lowed to proceed onward; he drew his cloak 
 closely around him, and walked towards the 
 palace of his master, with a steady step ; but it 
 still required some exertion over his nerves, to 
 
 VOL. I. K 
 
194 THE CIRCASSIAN CHIEF. 
 
 prevent himself from rushing onward at his 
 former pace. 
 
 At length he reached the palace, and knocked 
 at a side door, where Kruntz was in waiting for 
 him. His fellow ruffian started, as holding up a 
 hght, he caught sight of his pale, haggard cheek, 
 his starting eye, and the dark red stains with 
 which, as his cloak feU off, his dress was be- 
 smeared. 
 
 " What work hast thou been about now, 
 Groff ?" asked the man, " thou look'st like some 
 wandering ghost." 
 
 " A butcher's !" answered Groff, in a thick 
 husky voice; "but ask me no questions. Where 
 is our lord ? I must see him directly ; I have 
 matters of importance to communicate." 
 
 " Would'st go to him in that pretty guise, 
 friend ?" said Ki'untz ; " truly it would please 
 him much to see thee thus. Look at thyself 
 in a glass, man, and thou would'st not much 
 admire thine own countenance ; if thou didst 
 look always thus, thou woulds't have but poor 
 chance with the fair damsels thou seekest to 
 captivate, and even men would be apt to shun 
 thy company. I, for one, should not much like 
 to be as near thee always as I now am. Get 
 
THE CIRCASSIAN CHIEF. 195 
 
 thee in, man, and change thy draggled gar- 
 ments." 
 
 " Aye, I forgot me," answered Groff. " Say 
 not a word, Kruntz, nor rouse the other knaves. 
 I'll go change these wet garments, and then 
 present me to our Lord ; here, give me thy 
 lamp." 
 
 Thus saying, Groff seized the lamp from 
 Kruntz's hand, and turned the light away from 
 himself " Go, teU the Count, that I have re- 
 turned and will give my news, when I am fit 
 to appear before him." 
 
 While Kruntz went to report the return of 
 Groff, the assassin hastened to throw off his 
 blood-stained garments, which he carefully tied 
 up in a bundle, and hid them away together 
 with his dagger ; then having washed all stains 
 from his cheeks and hands, he presented himself 
 before the Count Erintoff. 
 
 He entered the room abruptly. " The deed 
 is done which you required," he said ; " to-mor- 
 row morning the whole city will ring with it, 
 and 1 may then claim my reward. I made sure 
 work, and the youth will never more stand in 
 your way." 
 
 " Good," answered the Count, " you shall 
 
 K 2 
 
196 THE CIRCASSIAN CHIEF. 
 
 have your reward. Come to-morrow to claim 
 it." 
 
 "It is well and hardly earned, let me say; and 
 here is something that I found in the breast of 
 the youth ; these papers may give you some 
 information," said Groif. 
 
 " Let me have them," said the Count. " Is 
 this all you found upon him, knave, eh ?" 
 
 "Nothing further; I stayed not to search 
 him," answered the ruffian. 
 
 " Well, well, it matters not," said the Count ; 
 " leave me, I will examine these papers." 
 
 The murderer gladly withdrew from the pre- 
 sence of his instigator to crime, to join his com- 
 panion, and to drown his conscience with wine ; 
 fost examining and then carefully hiding the spoils 
 he had taken from his victim. 
 
 The Count, when left alone, eagerly tore open 
 the papers he had received, though he shuddered 
 as on the outer packet, he caught sight of the 
 stains of blood ; the blood of the youth he had 
 so heartlessly, so revengefully consigned to an 
 early death ; but aU thoughts of remorse for the 
 deed were forgotten, as he glanced his eye over 
 the documents. Some were in cypher, but 
 others he perused with the deepest interest. As 
 
THE CIRCASSIAN CHIEF. 197 
 
 he read, he exclaimed aloud : " Ah, this is a 
 fortunate discovery ! How many do I now hold 
 in my power ! Ah, and you too ! The man 
 I hate ! I shall be amply revenged on him 1 
 My fortune is on the ascendant ! By Heavens ! 
 this information is worth a princedom to me I 
 Ay, and I will gain it too ! I would have sa- 
 crificed a thousand lives to have gained it ! My 
 revenge satisfied, now for love ! Ah, beautiful 
 but haughty girl, your lover dead, you will now 
 become mine ; you will soon willingly come to 
 my arms. Fortunately, that villain cannot read, 
 nor has he even looked at these papers ; I must 
 not let him guess at their contents, or he may 
 make higher demands on me. I trust he has 
 not kept back any other papers ; but no, he has 
 given these as my share, and has kept the 
 youth's gold, if he had any, to himself : — he is 
 welcome to it. But if I give information of 
 this affair, may I not be suspected of the mur- 
 der ? However, that matters nothing ; the go- 
 vernment will be too well pleased to gain the 
 information, to inquire very minutely how I 
 came by it, or, if they should, I may easily invent 
 a tale to account for it. I must see to this." 
 
198 THE CIRCASSIAN CHIEF. 
 
 CHAPTER XIL 
 
 O God ! she said. 
 Lifting her hands, thou hast restor'd me all — - 
 AU — in one hour ! — and round his neck she threw 
 Her arms and cried. My Roderick ! mine in Heaven ! 
 Groaning, he claspt her close, and in that act 
 And agony, her happy spirit fled. 
 
 SOUTHEY. 
 
 We must now turn our view to a chamber in 
 the chateau of the Baron Galetzoff. It was 
 furnished with heavy and old fashioned hangings 
 which gave it a solemn and sombre air, in- 
 creased by the windows being closed to exclude 
 the glare of day; one stream of light alone enter- 
 ing through the curtains, and throwing a still 
 darker shade into the rest of the room. Two 
 female attendants stood by the side of a couch, 
 on which reclined, now wan and emaciated, that 
 unhappy and mysterious lady, whom Ivan had 
 
THE CIRCASSIAN CHIEF. 199 
 
 SO short a time before left in health, and aU the 
 majesty of beauty. 
 
 Her eye fixed and regardless of all around, 
 her thoughts seemed to be far away, wandering 
 perchance amid the scenes of her youth, with 
 the loved beings of other days, whom she had 
 long, long ago lost, but soon hoped again to 
 meet in other and happier realms. As she 
 gazed, their airy forms flitted before her eyes, 
 and the well remembered lineaments became 
 clear, and distinct, beckoning her to follow. She 
 moved not, she spoke not, and as the attendants 
 looked on her, they thought her spirit had de- 
 parted. 
 
 A slow and gentle step approached : it was 
 that of a venerable grey-headed man in the robes 
 of a priest, whose clear, calm eye, and placid 
 countenance, betokened an amiable and tender 
 heart. He seated himself quietly by the side 
 of the couch, but the movement roused the 
 lady from her seeming trance, and she turned 
 her eyes towards him. 
 
 " Daughter," he said, " I could not rest away 
 from your side, and as soon as I had performed 
 the duties which called me hence, I returned to 
 
200 THE CIRCASSIAN CHIEF. 
 
 afford you all the consolation of which religion 
 has so great a store." 
 
 " Father !" she answered in a low voice, " to 
 your instructions do I owe the great, the ines- 
 timable benefits which I may now partake of; 
 else had I remained like the beast that perishes, 
 without that faith and hope which now sustain 
 me." 
 
 " Daughter ! those are the sentiments which 
 should possess the bosoms of all who are about 
 to leave this vale of tears," continued the holy 
 man ; " clear your thoughts of all things apper- 
 taining to this world, and fix them on the 
 next." 
 
 " I would do so. Father, but I cannot !" an- 
 swered the lady. " I must, ere I die, see one, the 
 dearest to me on earth ; till then I cannot tear 
 my thoughts from him. Has he arrived ? Oh ! 
 that I could see him, ere my spirit wings its 
 flight from hence. Oh ! let there be no delay 
 when he comes, for each instant I feel the 
 throbbing of my heart grow weaker." 
 
 " There shall be no delay, my daughter ! a 
 faithful messenger has been sent to summon him ; 
 but, when I just now entered the house, he had 
 
THE CIRCASSIAN CHIEF. 201 
 
 not arrived," said the priest. Scarcely had he 
 uttered the words, when the lady exclaimed, 
 " Ah, I now hear his horse's steps approaching ; 
 oh ! haste. Father, and bid him come hither." 
 
 "You are mistaken, daughter, I heard no 
 sound, and he could scarcely arrive by this hour," 
 answered the priest. 
 
 " Ah, no ! Father, I mistake not, even now 
 I hear his footstep in the hall. He approaches. 
 Oh, my heart ! cease not to beat, till I have seen 
 hiiti once again," she exclaimed, nor had her 
 sense of hearing deceived her; rendered still 
 more acute, as her other faculties were fast fail- 
 ing. 
 
 In a few moments, a gentle knock was heard, 
 and the dwarf entered. " I know that he is 
 come," said the lady, " oh ! let me see him 
 without delay ; and holy Father, I would be alone 
 with him." The priest rose to obey her wishes, 
 and withdrew with the attendants, as Ivan en- 
 tared. 
 
 As she saw him, her faded eye brightened ; 
 and she stretched out her arms to receive him, 
 as throwing himself on his knees by the side of 
 the couch, he shaded his face with his hands, 
 and a convulsive sob escaped his bosom. 
 
 K 3 
 
202 THE CIRCASSIAN CHIEF. 
 
 " Do I find you thus ?" he exclaimed after a 
 moment's pause, " my friend — my kind pro- 
 tectress ? why was I not before apprised of your 
 illness ? why was I not here to solace and com- 
 fort you ?" 
 
 " I knew not that death was making such 
 rapid strides towards me," answered the lady ; 
 " but think not that I am unhappy. Now that 
 I have you with me, loved one ! I am content 
 to bear my lot ; but I must not waste these 
 precious moments, for I have much to say 
 and my time on earth will quickly end. Lis- 
 ten to me," and she spoke in that language 
 which she had taught Ivan in his youth, and 
 in which they loved to commune together. 
 
 " Can you remember the early days of your 
 youth, and those scenes of which I once forbade 
 you to speak ?" she said. 
 
 " Yes — yes — vi\ddly can I now recall several 
 to my mind," answered Ivan. " I remember a 
 strange land, and scenes far different to this 
 country; and also your kindness, your love from 
 my earliest days." 
 
 " Think you that the affection and fond soli- 
 citude with which I tended your youth, could 
 ever have been felt by any but a mother ! None 
 
THE CIRCASSIAN CHIEF. 203 
 
 but a mother could feel the undying love which 
 I bear for you. My boy ! my child ! come to my 
 arms, and let me hold thee there, before I die. 
 You are — you are my son, and though in life, I 
 dared not, for your sake, acknowledge it, I re- 
 joice to die, that now 1 may declare the truth 
 before all the world." 
 
 " My heart always told me so," exclaimed 
 the young man, fondly embracing her, as she 
 held out her arms to receive him. " O my loved 
 mother ! would that I might thus have called 
 you before ! but say who is my father ? Is it not 
 the Baron ?" 
 
 " Thank great Heaven ! no, my loved son — 
 no ! Your father was noble, generous, and 
 brave; methinks, I now see his noble countenance 
 reflected in my boy ; but my strength fails me, 
 my voice grows weak. Listen, ere it be too late, 
 to my story. 
 
 " It w^as in our own loved and beautiful land, 
 amid the magnificent mountains, the green and 
 fertile glens of Circassia, that your father was 
 distinguished as one of the noblest and ])ravest 
 chieftains. Five thousand daring horsemen assem- 
 bled at his command, ready to follow wherever 
 he should lead. Many of the neighbouring 
 
204 THE CIRCASSIAN CHIEF. 
 
 chiefs were subject to him; all honoured or feared 
 him. He kept free from the feuds which dis- 
 tracted and weakened the other tribes, and all 
 sought to be in amity with him. He had nume- 
 rous flocks and herds, which fed on the richest 
 pastures ; he had abundance of wealth ; fleet and 
 hardy steeds ; rich armour and apparel ; faithful 
 and devoted servants. 
 
 " I was the daughter of a neighbouring prince; 
 your noble father sought and won me in mar- 
 riage. We had two children, you my loved son, 
 and a fair young daughter ; how my heart has 
 bled as I have thought of that lovely cherub, 
 whom I have been destined to see no more, and 
 whose fate I tremble to think of ! But our hap- 
 piness, which seemed as full as mortals could 
 enjoy, was destined to be fleeting and transitory; 
 we were awoke, suddenly and without prepara- 
 tion, from our short lived dream of bliss. 
 
 " Our territories, which extended over many 
 of the rocky and precipitous mountains border- 
 ing on the sea, had hitherto, on account of their 
 lofty situation, almost inaccessible to attack, 
 escaped the devastating visits of the invaders of 
 our country. Our home was near, the coast, 
 and your father, confiding in the security of our 
 
THE CIRCASSIAN CHIEF. 205 
 
 situation, had gone with the greater part of his 
 followers to repel a distant inroad of the enemy, 
 leaving only a few to protect our herds, when a 
 fleet of the lofty ships of the Russians, made a 
 sudden descent on our coast. Their troops 
 landed in numbers, and stormed the passes lead- 
 ing to our dwellings, destroying the fields of corn 
 on their road, and carrying off, or killing all the 
 cattle they could seize ; the few of our men 
 remaining in the neighbourhood assembled in 
 haste, and disputed each spot of ground practi- 
 cable of defence, with all the energy and bravery 
 of despair; even the women seized arms and 
 joined the men, aiding them to their utmost ; 
 some hurhng down stones on the heads of the 
 invaders, as they defiled through each narrow 
 gorge. But what could a handful of men do, 
 taken almost by surprise, against a host of w^ell- 
 equipped and ferocious enemies ? Frantic with 
 our hopeless efforts, we fought till our men were 
 all slain, for none would yield, while they had 
 strength to use their weapons. 
 
 " My heart sickens even now at the wanton 
 and cruel butcheries which the ruthless barba- 
 rians committed. The children were torn from 
 their mothers' arms and slaughtered in their 
 
206 THE CIRCASSIAN CHIEF. 
 
 sight ; some few of the women however escaped 
 with the infants under theii' charge, among 
 whom was your young sister, and gained the 
 mountains, beyond the reach of their pursuers. 
 
 " A ruffian was about to destroy you, my 
 boy, when you were rescued from his grasp by a 
 more humane comrade, who, as I afterwards found, 
 was a servant belonging to the leader of the 
 enemy's forces. From a height overlooking the 
 pass, I beheld you borne away in the arms of the 
 soldier, and I sought to throw myself down, to 
 tear you from the robber's grasp, or to share your 
 capti\dty. I was, however, forcibly prevented by 
 my attendants, who deaf to my entreaties and dis- 
 obedient to my commands, when I ordered them 
 to release me, compelled me to remain concealed 
 in a cavern from the sight of our enemies. The 
 Russians had retired from the defiles and passes 
 in the mountains and encamped near the sea- 
 shore, under protection of the guns of their 
 ships ; we, the wretched and melancholy few 
 who remained, watched from the neighbouring 
 heights, there passing the live-long night, for we 
 had no homes to return to ; our once smiling 
 dwellings were burnt to the ground, our streams 
 choked with the dead, and tinged with their 
 
THE CIRCASSIAN CHIEF. 207 
 
 blood, our cattle carried off, and desolation 
 reigned around. 
 
 "We were aroused from our lamentations 
 over the fallen brave, by the arrival of a band 
 of horsemen, who had been sent back by your 
 father ; they proposed to delay making any at- 
 tack on the foe till their numbers could be in- 
 creased from the neighbouring villages ; but I 
 thought of you, my boy — you a prisoner in the 
 hands of our enemies, and I dreaded lest they 
 should set sail, and bear you far away without a 
 hope of recovering you. With lamentations and 
 entreaties, with tears and commands, I urged 
 on our men to the attack. I shewed them the 
 ignominy, the disgrace, which would cover them, 
 should they allow an enemy, who had devastated 
 theii' lands, slain their kinsmen, and carried away 
 captive their wives and children, to escape, with- 
 out attempting to revenge their loss. I pointed 
 out to them that the son of their beloved chief- 
 tain was in the power of their enemies, and that 
 should they discover the value of their prize, 
 they would endeavour to bring us to terms, dis- 
 graceful and injurious to our country, for the sake 
 of recovering him. I excited their vdour — I 
 fired their souls with my eloquence, WTought to 
 
2 08 THE CIRCASSIAN CHIEF. 
 
 the highest pitch by a mother's anxiety — I of- 
 fered to lead them, putting myself at their head, 
 and swore never to return unsuccessful. 
 
 "We sent out messengers in all directions 
 around, summoning all who could be collected 
 to join our forces. None hesitated to obey our 
 summons, for the same detestation of our in- 
 vaders animated the breasts of all. Before the 
 morning broke, we had assembled from all 
 quarters an irregular, but heroic band, eager to 
 be led against the common foe. From the tliick 
 w^ooded heights, which overhung the coast, we 
 rushed down upon the unprepared camp, hke 
 some mountain torrent, suddenly swelled by the 
 thunder cloud, sweeping over the plain, bearing 
 all before it. I felt not like a weak, timid wo- 
 man, but as the enraged lioness, whose young 
 has been torn from her by the hands of the 
 huntsmen. I spmng to rescue you ; by word 
 and action, I encouraged our men to the assault, 
 and heeded not the overwhelming numbers op- 
 posed to us. 
 
 " The Russians roused from their sleep, ere the 
 out-posts could give the alarm, rushed to their 
 arms ; tnany, owing to the confusion and dark- 
 ness, missed their weapons. In an instant we 
 
 , •< 
 
THE CIRCASSIAN CHIEF. 209 
 
 were upon them ; and as corn before the sickle 
 we hewed them down, none crying for mercy ; 
 they knew they deserved it not, we shewed none. 
 But ere our work was done, the morning broke, 
 and exhibited our scanty force to the enemy, 
 who rallied at the sight, and retreated fighting 
 in order. But I had not recovered my child, 
 and it was for that object alone that I fought. 
 Suddenly, I caught sight of you at a distance, 
 with other prisoners amid the ranks of the foe. 
 I strained every nerve to reach you — I saw not 
 the blows aimed at me — I encouraged my fol- 
 lowers, and on — on, we rushed, fearless of the 
 danger, and ignorant of the vast power of the 
 mighty engines of destruction which their huge 
 ships bore. Fighting step by step, we repelled 
 the Russians, till they gained the very margin of 
 the sea, and then, just as we thought victory secure 
 — their ships opened upon us suddenly the hot 
 shower of their artillery, which no valour could 
 withstand ; my brave companions fell fast around 
 me while fighting, and still hotly pui'suing the 
 foe, till death arrested their course. 
 
 " Scarcely any remained by my side, when it 
 seemed that a sickness came over me, and I fell 
 to the ground, and knew not what further hap- 
 pened. 
 
210 THE CIRCASSIAN CHIEF. 
 
 "When I awoke to consciousness, I found my- 
 self on board of one of the Russian ships, 
 borne far from my native land. I endeavoured 
 to recal my scattered senses : a fever raged 
 through my brain, as I was conducted into the 
 presence of the chief who had led the attack 
 on our territory — he was the Baron Galet- 
 zoif!" 
 
 Ivan's brow grew dark, and an exclamation of 
 anger rose to his lips ; but he restrained his 
 passion. 
 
 " He eyed me with a glance which pierced me 
 through my soiil, as I stood with my head bowed 
 before him, nor could words find utterance 
 through my parched lips. He spoke, but I was'' 
 deaf to the sound. Strange people were around 
 me; an uncouth language was spoken, whose 
 meaning I could not understand : entreaty, re- 
 sistance, complaint, were alike unavailing. I 
 had none to appeal to from whom I could hope 
 for assistance. I knew myself to be utterly 
 helpless ; none around me could understand my 
 words. I was led back, unresistingly, to my 
 solitary cabin. I yielded to my fate, for all 
 thoughts of escape were hopeless. I thought 
 of death as a refuge for my wretchedness ; but 
 one idea, one hope still sustained me, and bade 
 
THE CIRCASSIAN CHIEF. 211 
 
 me cling to life. I might, should you have 
 escaped destruction, still have a chance, though 
 a remote one, of meeting with you. The very 
 thought restored me. I determined to live to 
 devote my energies to find you ; for I knew not 
 of the difficulties in my way. The ship in 
 which I was borne captive from Circassia, 
 reached the shores of Russia ; and I was trans- 
 ported to this mansion in some strange convey- 
 ance, which I had never before seen. I was 
 here treated with every care and attention, having 
 female attendants to wait on me, and to supply 
 all my wants. From them I learned gradually 
 the strange language they spoke, being inspired 
 with the hope that it might be of service to 
 me in my search after you ; and sustained by 
 this deep feeling, I became partially reconciled 
 to my fate. I had not seen or heard of my 
 captor since I left the ship, except that, as far 
 as I could understand, he was still absent from 
 his domain. 
 
 " My sole delight and employment was in wan- 
 dering through the woods, while thinking of you, 
 and in forming many different projects to discover 
 to what part of the country you had been conveyed. 
 On one of these excursions I had gone ftu^ther 
 
212 THE CIRCASSIAN CHIEF. 
 
 than usual from home, and had foi an instant lost 
 sight of my attendant, when a child's cry caught 
 my ear. I rushed forward eagerly at the sound, 
 for the notes vibrated through my heart like some 
 beloved and well-known voice. I was not to be 
 deceived. Oh ! joy of joys ! blessing unspeak- 
 able ! it was you, my own loved boy — far off, I 
 knew you. I sprang forward — I pressed you to 
 my bosom — I covered you with kisses — I placed 
 you on the ground : again and again I snatched 
 you in my arms. I wept — I felt mad with joy ; 
 all my sorrows, all my miseries were, for the 
 moment, forgotten ; all the happiness I had lost, 
 in an instant, appeared restored tenfold. I know 
 not if you recognised me; but I thought you 
 did ; for you returned my embrace, looking up 
 smilingly in my face. 
 
 *' A rough, but honest-faced looking man, broke 
 through the woods in search of you, and looked 
 surprised and alarmed on finding you in my 
 arms. He made signs that he must take you 
 from me ; and though I sought to prevent it, 
 you returned willingly to him. With my spirit 
 broken, I could not dare to oppose him ; and I 
 guessed, too, from his manners and countenance, 
 that he might prove a friend. This honest serf 
 
THE CIRCASSIAN CHIEF. 213 
 
 was the father of Karl ; and from him I learned 
 that you had been carried off by his brother, 
 who had saved your life from the hands of some 
 of his comrades ; that the Baron had seen you, 
 and for some unknown reason, had taken a 
 fancy to you, and ordered you to be com- 
 mitted to his charge; and also, that you had 
 been conveyed to the estate at the very time that 
 I was, while I had been pining in despair for 
 your loss. Every day I frequented the same spot, 
 which was near the serf's hut, in hopes of see- 
 ing you and clasping you to my bosom ; when 
 the honest fellow at length, taking compassion 
 on me, used to bring you forth to meet me. 
 Oh ! the happiness, the bliss of those moments, 
 almost repaid me the misery I had suffered. I 
 was not acquainted with the Baron's disposition; 
 but an idea occurred to me, though I scarcely 
 know how it originated, that, should he discover 
 you to be my son, he might, by threatening to 
 tear you from my sight, endeavour to gain more 
 control over me. Every time that this thought 
 recurred to me, it gave fresh strength to my 
 opinion, and I resolved, at all hazard, to profess 
 utter carelessness on your account ; and thankful 
 I have ever since been, that I adopted that coui'se; 
 
214 THE CIRCASSIAN CHIEF. 
 
 for no sooner did the Baron arrive, than my 
 trials commenced. I, at first, with the most 
 abject entreaties, prayed to be restored to my 
 own country, hoping to take you with me ; but 
 he laughed at my petition ; and when I pressed 
 my demand, with some haughtiness of manner, 
 he sternly refused. 
 
 " All hopes of escape were as vain as the 
 prayers addressed to my captor had been unsuc- 
 cessful, for I knew not even to what part of the 
 country I had been conveyed. I thought of the 
 beloved husband to whom I was lost — of my 
 sweet daughter — of friends and home; and I 
 felt that I could not survive their loss : but your 
 voice, though at a distance, struck on my ear, 
 and for your sake I resolved to live on. 
 
 " When you were brought to the chateau, 
 your playful manners, and light prattle, seemed 
 to win on the affections of the Baron, as much 
 as his rough and savage nature would permit ; 
 but I kept to my prudent resolution, and pre- 
 tended not to recognise you. At first you 
 would oftentimes throw your arms round my 
 neck, and call me by the endearing name of 
 mother, in your native tongue; but I taught 
 you not to utter that name, though it almost 
 
THE CIRCASSIAN CHIEF. 215 
 
 broke my heart to do so ; and my artifice suc- 
 ceeded ; for you were constantly allowed to be 
 with me, and the Baron seemed to have no idea 
 of our relationship. 
 
 " The Baron's conduct towards you was 
 always inexplicable, for it appeared entirely 
 contrary to his fierce and cruel disposition, to 
 treat you as he has done. I have lately 
 suspected that he has some secret motive for 
 thus acting, for to me he has always been harsh 
 and tyrannical. 
 
 " There was one person in the Baron's esta- 
 blishment who soon became entirely devoted to 
 me — it was the dwarf Ladislau. I pitied his 
 weakness and helplessness, treating him always 
 with kindness, for which he has shewn his 
 gratitude by every means in his power. From 
 him I learned that the Baron had, some time 
 before, married a lady of great beauty, who, his 
 servants and dependants fancied, was a native 
 of some foreign country, though they knew not 
 from what part of the world she came. Ladis- 
 lau added that he himself perfectly knew, and 
 that she was of the Zingani race, and had been 
 induced to marry the Baron, more for his rank 
 and wealth, than for any great love she bore 
 
216 THE CIRCASSIAN CHIEF. 
 
 him. This he soon discovered, and in revenge 
 treated her so barbarously, that she was pre- 
 paring to fly from his mansion, but was pre- 
 vented. Soon after the unfortunate lady died, 
 after giving birth to a child ; but, previously to 
 that event, she had called the dwarf to her, 
 and given some injunctions, which he had 
 sworn most solemnly to fulfil, and even to keep 
 secret within his own bosom. 
 
 " The Baron at first seemed repentant of his 
 jealousy and tyranny, and grieved for his loss, 
 seeking to make amends by his kindness to 
 the child, for his cruelty to the mother; but, 
 dming his absence from home for a time, the 
 child had mysteriously disappeared, and all his 
 attempts at discovering it, had proved fruitless. 
 Methought the dwarf gave a sinister look, as 
 he told me the tale. He said that the Baron 
 had raged and stormed at the loss of his child, 
 but had at length given up all hopes of ever 
 discovering the perpetrators of the deed ; rather 
 beheving that it had come to some violent end, 
 and perhaps, when he first saw you, the smiling 
 cherub that you then were, he thought of sup- 
 plying the place of his own lost one. 
 
 " From the dwarf I learned, that the Baron 
 
THE CIRCASSIAN CHIEF. 217 
 
 bore a deadly hatred to my country, for the 
 reverses he had so constantly met with there ; 
 and he had sworn utterly to subdue, and re- 
 duce its inhabitants to the most abject slavery. 
 He knew little of the noble spirit which ani- 
 mated their bosoms, while indulging in hopes 
 of success against them. Ladislau added, when 
 the Baron found that you, a Circassian child, 
 had been saved by one of his soldiers, he, with 
 a refinement of cruelty, had determined to bring 
 you up, and teach you to feel the most deadly 
 hatred against your own countrymen, if by 
 chance they were not subdued before that time. 
 I thanked heaven that I was at hand to counter- 
 act his evil intentions, and the aim of my life 
 has been, to inspire you with a love of freedom, 
 and a hatred of aU tyranny and injustice. The 
 Baron would be less than human had he not 
 one redeeming quality; having been a father 
 himself, he seemed, when you were a child, to 
 have some sparks of affection for you, beyond 
 the object for which he has educated you. He 
 has even now adopted you, and would leave 
 you all his wealth, would you comply with his 
 requests. But oh ! my loved son, be not 
 seduced by the glittering baits he will offer — - 
 VOL. I. L 
 
218 THE CIRCASSIAN CHIEF. 
 
 to turn traitor to your native land ! Else 
 shall my life, and aU my sufferings have been 
 in vain. Oh no ! even I, to whom you are 
 dearer than all else, counsel you to hazard 
 death or captivity, rather than shed the blood 
 of youi' countrymen, by the side of their foes. 
 Let me beseech you to fulfil the lofty pui-pose 
 for which I consented to live in this hated 
 place ; and when I am no more, as I soon shall 
 be, then fly from hence, and endeavour to 
 reach your native land. That amulet, which 
 you carry round your neck, has always been 
 worn by the eldest son of the chieftain of your 
 tribe. No sooner shall your father's followers 
 see it, than they will acknowledge you, if un- 
 happily your noble father no longer lives. Seek 
 the spot which w^as once your home, then pro- 
 claim yourself, and relate my unhappy stor}^, 
 when aU with joy will own you; and should 
 my loved husband stiQ exist, give him my 
 parting sighs.'* 
 
 Her voice, during this recital, frequently 
 faltered through weakness ; and as she fell back 
 exhausted at its close, a thriU of horror shot 
 through her son's frame, as for an instant he 
 thought that, in truth, her spirit had fled to 
 
THE CIRCASSIAN CHIEF. 219 
 
 the realms of bliss ; but to his great joy, she 
 again opened her eyes, to gaze on him she loved 
 so deeply, as he held her sinking form in his 
 arms. He was overwhelmed with the interest 
 of the story he had heard ; and though he had 
 loved her before he knew she was his mother, 
 how deep and earnest was his gratitude now for 
 her devoted, her heroic affection for him ? 
 
 " Mother !" he cried, " I swear to obey your 
 commands. Already have I engaged in the 
 accomplishment of a great work, after the issue 
 of which I wiU haste to that land, which oft 
 have I visited in mv dreams." 
 
 " Enough, my son, sure I am that heaven 
 will protect you on your way ; but I have yet 
 more to add. When you reach your native 
 land, oh ! endeavour to instil into your country- 
 men that mild and pure religion, which the 
 good priest, who educated you, first taught me 
 to know. It was once the religion of our 
 forefathers, and the cross — the emblem of that 
 faith — is still to be seen in the land. Oh ! 
 reclaim them to the true and ancient worship 
 of their country. My loved son! let me gaze 
 on thee once more, ere my sight fail me. May 
 heaven guard thy life, and make thee the 
 
 L 2 
 
220 THE CIRCASSIAN CHIEF. 
 
 deliverer of thy countr}' ! Then shalt thou be 
 known bv thv time name, and well wilt thou 
 prove worthy of thy gallant father. I cannot 
 longer see thee, my son ; but kiss me once 
 more, and receive my last sigh : — when thou 
 bearest it to thy father, say that I loved him to 
 the last." 
 
 She ceased to speak, Ivan felt her form 
 recline more heavily in his arms ; no pulse 
 answered to liis touch. She looked lovely still, 
 but her eye had lost that mysterious expression 
 of the mind, when the li™g soul yet animates 
 the frame. Her spirit had fled ! 
 
 In that bleak land died the lovely exile, far 
 distant from her o\^^l simny chme ; but she was 
 happy at the last, when folded in the arms of that 
 son for whose sake she had so nobly endured 
 long and wean' captidt}*. 
 
 Tlie young man uttered no loud complaint ; 
 but laid her foiTQ calmly on the couch, and 
 \^-ith reverent awe closed her eyes ; then gazing 
 earnestly on her features, he tlu'ew liimself on 
 his knees by her side. The attendants entered, 
 and found him in this postm-e when he was 
 aroused by the entreaties of his faithfril friend 
 Ladislau, who led him unresistingly to his 
 
THE CrRCASSI-\:>^ CHIEF. 221 
 
 chamber ; and the kind-hearted dwarf then la- 
 vished his attentions upon the bereaved Ivan. 
 
 The stem Lord of the mansion had been for 
 some days absent, unaware of his captive's ap- 
 proaching Hberation from her misery and 
 thraldom ; Ivan was thereby enabled to indulge 
 his grief without interruption. 
 
222 THE CIRCASvSIAN CHIEF. 
 
 CHAPTER XIIL 
 
 Tem. — E vuoi ch'io divenga 
 
 n distmttor delle paterne mura ? 
 
 No ; tanto non potra la mia sventura. 
 
 METASTASIO. 
 
 The female attendants and wives of the 
 nearest serfs assembled to utter their lamenta- 
 tions over the body of the deceased, which was 
 laid out on a couch, with the hands crossed on 
 the breast, dressed in a crimson robe, and a rich 
 coif placed on the head. The venerable priest 
 who had attended her when living, came to 
 sprinkle incense over her body ; and while thus 
 engaged, he chaunted psalms in a low and 
 solemn voice. 
 
 On the third day from her death, the remains 
 of the lady were placed in a cofRn covered with 
 crimson cloth, and surrounded with torches ; 
 
THE CIRCASSIAN CHIEF. 223 
 
 from thence it was conveyed to the neighbour- 
 ing church. At a distance, followed Ivan un- 
 known and unnoticed, enveloped in his cloak ; 
 and as the priest concluded the short funeral 
 service, he drew near, and kneeling by the coffin, 
 kissed that cold and inanimate hand : on that 
 spot he again swore to fulfil her commands, and 
 to devote himself to the cause of his native 
 country. With a tearless eye, but bursting 
 heart; he saw all that he loved committed to the 
 earth, and lingered long near the spot, until he 
 was urged to depart by Ladislau. 
 
 The day after the sad ceremony had been 
 performed, the Baron returned to the chateau, 
 but made no allusion to the melancholy event, 
 nor did it appear to affect him in any way. 
 Summoning Ivan to his presence soon after his 
 arrival : 
 
 " My plans are arranged," said he ; " our 
 gracious Emperor has appointed me to the com- 
 mand of a strong force, to quell the rebellious 
 Circassians ; and, in a short time, I hope to 
 bring them under lawful subjection. This has 
 ever been the height of my ambition. I own 
 that the difficulties are great ; but if I fall, in 
 you, Ivan, I hope to leave a worthy successor. In 
 
224 THE CIRCASSIAN CHIEF. 
 
 this parchmfnt, you are made heir to all my 
 possessions ; and our noble Czar, in considera- 
 tion of my services, and as the only favour that 
 I have asked, will permit you to assume the 
 same rank I bear." 
 
 Ivan, for a time, remained silent after this 
 announcement. A momentous period to him 
 had arrived, and he almost dreaded the effects 
 of what he was resolved to say, in reply. 
 
 " What, young man !" exclaimed the Baron, 
 impatiently, " are you not overpowered with 
 gratitude ? What mean you by this silence — 
 that fixed gaze — those clenched hands? Do 
 you hesitate to accept my offer ? Speak, boy ! 
 thwart not my will, or you will deeply repent 
 your folly !" 
 
 While the fierce old Baron raved like a wound- 
 ed lion, lashing himself into fury, before him 
 stood the young Circassian, calm, but deter- 
 mined, hke some courageous hunter, who has 
 been unexpectedly allured into the lair of the 
 beast. After a still further protracted silence, 
 he at length addressed the Baron : 
 
 " I might once have accepted the noble offer 
 you make me. Sir ; but that time is passed. I 
 now know who I am : and rather would I toil 
 
THE CIRCASSIAN CHIEF. 225 
 
 as the meanest serf on your domain, than bear 
 arms against that country — my own, my native 
 land. Yes, Sir, I am a Circassian ; and prouder 
 am I to belong to that heroic race, than to the 
 highest rank the autocrat of all the Russias can 
 confer." 
 
 " What words are these I hear ?" cried the 
 Baron, furiously. " Disobedience to my orders : 
 rebellion against the Emperor ! Is it for this I 
 have brought you up — have educated you ; and 
 would have made you wealthy and noble ? I have 
 treated you as my own son, and never wished you 
 to know that I was not your father. Who has 
 dared to fill your mind with such dreams ? They 
 shall richly repent their interference and folly." 
 
 " She, who has escaped from the reach of 
 your power," answered Ivan : " she, Sir, who 
 devoted her life to me, who was my only friend 
 — my mother !" 
 
 " What ! have I been deceived, then, by the 
 wit of a frail woman ; and have I been nourish- 
 ing a young viper, for years past, within my 
 bosom, that now rises to sting me. I recal the 
 offer I made to you. Begone, leave my pre- 
 sence ! and henceforth, let me see your face no 
 more. From this moment I discard you — I 
 
 L 3 
 
226 THE CIRCASSIAN CHIEF. 
 
 throw you off for ever; and beware, lest you 
 suifer as a traitor and rebel to the Emperor. 
 Even now you should be seized: you have 
 uttered treason and sedition, which merit full 
 punishment. Before long, Siberia shall be your 
 destination, where you may proclaim such fan- 
 tastic nonsense without fear of injuring any. 
 But with such pestiferous notions you shall no 
 longer abide under my roof. Begone, quit my 
 presence, or I will send my slaves to drive you 
 hence. Am I to be thus bearded by a boy ? — 
 my offers despised ? — no gratitude shown for 
 my paternal care and liberality ! Begone ! 
 Again I say, I will hear no reply." 
 
 Overwhelmed by so many various and con- 
 tending emotions, Ivan could with difficulty 
 collect his thoughts, sufficiently, to determine 
 how to act. He felt that the Baron had, indeed, 
 afforded him many advantages, and had but just 
 now made him what, at all events, appeared to 
 be a generous offer; although he had, at the 
 same time, treated his mother with cruelty and 
 injustice, which might counterbalance all kindness 
 shewn to himself. His better feelings, however, 
 conquered ; and as he slowly quitted the apart- 
 ment, he turned, and was about to express them, 
 when he encountered the fierce look of the 
 
THE CIRCASSIAN CHIEF. 227 
 
 Baron, and saw that further discourse would but 
 increase his anger. 
 
 When left alone, the Baron, with furious 
 gestures, paced the apartment. 
 
 "I would yet tame," he muttered to himself, 
 " that proud and haughty spirit, which, other- 
 wise directed, might have fully answered to my 
 wishes. No, no, I will let him range at large ; 
 his means w^ill soon be exhausted, and I shall 
 then find him returning to crouch at my feet. 
 Ah ! that will satisfy my vengeance ; and I may 
 then do with him as I list. He shall no longer 
 remain here, nor return, until he comes a sup- 
 pliant before me." 
 
 Summoning his attendants, he exclaimed, 
 " Let a horse be given to the rebellious youth 
 who has just left me, and you, Karl ! take what- 
 ever belongs to him from hence, and bear it 
 w^herever he lists. Henceforth he returns here 
 no more. Do you hear me, slaves ? Depart, and 
 obey my orders !" 
 
 The frightened servants hurried out to obey 
 their fierce Lord's commands, and the dwarf 
 Ladislau, who had stolen in unperceived among 
 them, no sooner heard the order given, than he 
 hastened to report it to Ivan. 
 
 " My best — my only tme friend !" said 
 
228 THE CIRCASSIAN CHIEF. 
 
 Ladislau, in tears, " alas ! you are banished for 
 ever from hence, for I know that the Baron will 
 not relent ! nor shall I be allowed to see you 
 again. I know not what course you mean to 
 pursue; but this I know, my dear Ivan, that 
 wherever you go, you will require money. Now 
 I have no need of any myself, and therefore, if 
 you have any regard for me, if you would not 
 break my heart before its time, accept this 
 purse. You will find in it enough to supply 
 youi' wants for some time to come, and I shall 
 never feel the loss of it." 
 
 Ivan was affected to tears by this mark of 
 affection from his diminutive friend, but at the 
 same time he hesitated in depriving him of his 
 means of existence, should he, like himself, be 
 turned out into the world ; but the excitable 
 Ladislau broke out into a violent flood of tears, 
 as he at first refused the gift, and swore that he 
 himself would never touch it, if Ivan did not 
 make use of it. So that at last, much against 
 his inclination, he was obliged to accept a small 
 portion, sufficient he trusted to carry him to the 
 shores of Circassia. 
 
 After waiting some time, in the hope that the 
 Baron's anger would cool, he sent a message 
 requesting permission to see him again before 
 
THE CIRCASSIAN CHIEF. 22 
 
 his departure ; but a stern refusal was the an- 
 swer, and an order that he should quit the 
 house without further delay. His proud spkit 
 thus irritated, he no longer hesitated to obey 
 the stern command, after taking an affectionate 
 leave of Ladislau, who refused to be comforted. 
 
 With heavy heart, and agitated feelings, he 
 sallied forth for the last time from the gates of 
 the chateau, amid looks of sadness and regret 
 depicted on the faces of the ser\^ants, who dared 
 in no other way to express their sentiments ; 
 and as he passed through the domain, many 
 an aifectionate regard was uttered by the serfs 
 whom he met, grateful for his many acts of 
 kindness to them ; he then pursued his journey 
 towards Moscow. On his arrival he repaired to 
 the same hotel where he had before resided ; 
 he now had to undergo the pain of parting 
 from- the honest serf Karl, when he felt how few 
 there were who cared for him; and this man hav- 
 ing been his particular attendant from his child- 
 hood, he could not but feel grieved at the sepa- 
 ration. The poor fellow, who would willingly 
 and gladly have followed his fortunes, shed many 
 tears as he embraced his master's knees ; but it 
 was useless for him to repine, the stern law of 
 
230 THE CIRCASSIAN CHIEF. 
 
 the land forbade him. He was a slave chained to 
 the soil, and obliged to obey the owner whoever 
 he might be ; and the Baron had ordered him 
 to return to the chateau without delay. 
 
 It was long before he could tear himself away 
 from the youth, whom he had attended from his 
 boyhood, and for whom he felt a faithful attach- 
 ment ; but at length, bathed in tears, he rushed 
 from him, mounted his horse and returned to 
 his place of bondage, moiu-ning over his own 
 abject state, which should thus prevent him 
 from following where his inclinations led. He 
 had never before thought or dreamed of quitting 
 the domain where he was born and bred ; but 
 now the wish to be free seized him, to throw off 
 the yoke which could thus enchain his move- 
 ments. He returned discontented and unhappy 
 to his father's hut, determining to seize the first 
 opportunity to emancipate himself from bond- 
 age. 
 
 Ivan immediately despatched a messenger to 
 acquaint his friend Thaddeus with the circum- 
 stances which had occurred; summoning him 
 to his aid and counsel. He had now entered a 
 new era in his existence ; henceforth he felt that 
 he must entirely depend on his own judgment 
 
THE CIRCASSIAN CHIEF. 231 
 
 and courage, to conduct him through the diffi- 
 cult and perilous way of life he had chosen, in 
 preference to the one the Baron had offered. 
 
 His thoughts reverted to the days of his light- 
 hearted boyhood, and he felt himself to be a 
 man, indeed, with aU the cares and anxieties 
 almost inseparable from that stage of life ; but he 
 also felt that it was not a time for needless me- 
 ditation — action, decided and instant action, was 
 now" become necessary. 
 
 He had devoted himself to assist in forw^ard- 
 ing a great cause, the freedom of Russia ; but 
 then again, he felt that his own country had a 
 prior claim to his services. He hesitated in 
 deciding which plan it was most incumbent on 
 him to pursue. Whether, at once to carry his 
 sword to the aid of Circassia, or to falfil the first 
 engagements he had entered into, when he 
 thought himself a Russian, and to assist in the 
 liberation of Russia from despotism. 
 
 It occurred to him, at the same time, that by 
 following the latter plan, he might be more 
 effectually aiding his own country, for should 
 freedom once be established among the Rus- 
 sians, he supposed it but natural that that people 
 would desist from their unjust endeavours to 
 deprive Circassia of her liberty. 
 
232 THE CIRCASSIAN CHIEF 
 
 Ivan determined, therefore, to wait a short 
 time, at least, the course of events before he set 
 off on his expedition in search of all which 
 could now be dear to him. Country — home — 
 father — and relations. He had to begin a new 
 life : to throw off many of his old habits ; to 
 make new friends ; and to consider those as 
 enemies whom he had hitherto looked upon as 
 countrymen. While these ideas were rapidly 
 passing through his mind, he recollected that that 
 evening had been fixed upon for a general 
 meeting of the conspirators ; and as soon as 
 night arrived, he sallied forth amid the bustling 
 crowds who hurried by, heedless of him and his 
 intentions. 
 
 But there was one who anxiously had been 
 waiting to observe his movements. As he left the 
 house, that person, who was no other than his 
 intended murderer, Groff, followed his steps, 
 cautiously threading his way among the crowd, 
 or retiring, when requisite, from observation to 
 recommence his trail. 
 
 As Ivan w^alked quickly onwards, it struck 
 him that he was followed, as he had been on a 
 former occasion, and he prepared himself for any 
 sudden encounter. Without any impediment, 
 however, he reached the place of meeting, where 
 
THE CIRCASSIAN CHIEF. 233 
 
 he found the greater number of the chief con- 
 spirators assembled, and several new recruits 
 among them. 
 
 On his entrance, all turned their faces towards 
 him, and started from their seats. 
 
 " What ! is it Ivan Galetzoff we see before 
 us?" exclaimed one, advancing towards him 
 with surprise on his countenance. " Is it 
 possible that you stand before us alive and 
 weU ?" 
 
 " Indeed," answered Ivan, " I know it to 
 be perfectly possible, although I do not under- 
 stand the drift of your observations. Are you 
 inclined to be merry ? Yet I should suppose our 
 affaii's were too important to furnish matter for 
 jesting !" 
 
 " Here's some extraordinary mistake," said 
 the conspu^ator, " and glad are we to find you 
 alive, when we thought you had been foully 
 murdered." 
 
 " Murdered !" exclaimed Ivan, " what gave 
 rise to such an idea ?" 
 
 " On the morning succeeding the last night 
 you were here, a person was found, not far from 
 this spot, murdered, with several wounds in his 
 breast, and his features so disfigured that it 
 
234 THE CIRCASSIAN CHIEF. 
 
 was impossible to recognize him ; it was also said 
 that there was nothing found about his person, 
 by which he could be known. Rumour proclaimed 
 you to be the unfortunate individual, and from 
 your not again appearing among us, we con- 
 cluded that you had indeed been the victim." 
 
 " It is clear that we have been mistaken," 
 said another conspii^ator, adding as he turned to 
 Ivan, " Know you not that you have broken 
 through the laws of our society, by absenting your- 
 self v^dthout giving reason for so doing; it is 
 for the safety of all, that the movements of 
 every member of our association should be 
 known to the committee of direction. Remem- 
 ber, that the sword of vengeance hangs over 
 the head of him who shall turn traitor to our 
 cause : secret, and sure wiU be the punishment, 
 from which the guilty cannot escape, sheltered 
 even in the palace of the autocrat." 
 
 " Gentlemen !" said Ivan, rising, " ready 
 should I be to suffer a traitor's death, were I so 
 base as to betray the sacred — the noble cause in 
 which I am engaged. No time was allowed me 
 to apprize you of my departure, when I w^as 
 called away to attend a parent's death-bed. If 
 such be considered a crime, I am ready to 
 
THE CIRCASSIAN CHIEF. 235 
 
 suffer; but rather let my actions convince you 
 how true and earnest I am in the cause of 
 liberty. You see one before you now, ruined 
 to all worldly prospects, and eager to assist in 
 the work we have proposed. Let there be no 
 further delay; we are already strong in the 
 numbers and resources of our friends. Let us 
 at once raise the standard of revolt against 
 tyranny, and proclaim liberty to Russia, for sure 
 I am that at the signal of deliverance, thousands 
 win hasten joyfully to join our ranks, and that 
 ere long the Russians, having thrown off the 
 yoke of slavery, may lift up their heads among 
 the free people of the earth." These sentiments 
 were received \^ith loud acclamations by the 
 majority of his hearers. 
 
 " The youth speaks weE," said one of the 
 conspirators, rising ; a violent and tiu*bulent 
 character, and a strong advocate for extreme 
 measures ; " but before we take the field 
 openly, one great object must be accomplished, 
 without which all our future efforts will be vain. 
 Will you, who have so bravely spoken, under- 
 take to perform that great, that sacred work ? 
 It is no slight deed — it is full of peiil ; but if 
 success attends your aim, it will cover your 
 name for ever with a wreath of glory. It is 
 
236 THE CIRCASSIAN CHIEF. 
 
 this : let me not hesitate to declare it ; and let 
 yours be the high honour of ridding the country 
 of its greatest oppressor; let yours be the 
 daring hand to stab the unsuspecting tyrant to 
 the heart while revelling in the fancied security 
 of his power ; for until that first step be taken, 
 naught else we can do will avail us !" 
 
 Ivan rose astounded, and indignant at the 
 vile proposition ; his feelings were responded to 
 by the greater number of the most influential 
 conspu'ators, at the same time that they were 
 unwilling to damp the mad enthusiasm of others, 
 who hesitated not in proposing violent measures ; 
 such men being but necessary tools to work out 
 their own more moderate views. 
 
 " I came here," he said, with deep emotion, 
 " to offer my sword to the sacred cause of 
 liberty, and not to act the abhorred part of a 
 midnight assassin ; and cursed will be the cause 
 which requires such means to ensure its success. 
 If such be the only resources by which liberty 
 can be gained for Russia, I here demand back 
 my pledge; my oath forbids me to denounce 
 any to the Emperor ; but I will never associate 
 with men, who can even allow such a proposi- 
 tion to be made among them." 
 
 He spoke proudly and dauntlessly, and, 
 
THE CIRCASSIAN CHIEF. 237 
 
 having uttered these sentiments, was about to 
 quit the assembly, when several of the con- 
 spirators gathered round him, endeavoui'ing to 
 calm his agitation and anger ; while others re- 
 garded him with stern and lowering glances, 
 ready to sacrifice him to their vengeance, 
 should he shew the least sign of betraying 
 them. 
 
 Though some manifested a slight opposition 
 to his leaving the meeting, he was nevertheless 
 allowed to depart, by his more intimate ac- 
 quaintance undertaking to answer for his fide- 
 lity. 
 
 Hot and eager discussions then arose, and 
 many loudly stigmatized the vile proposition 
 which had been made ; though some still ad- 
 hered to their opinion, that they were justified 
 in any deed that w^ould forward the great end. 
 The debate had increased in warmth, until the 
 conspirators formed themselves into distinct 
 parties, when a person rushed into the assembly, 
 consternation and dismay marked on his counte- 
 nance. 
 
 " My fi^ends," he cried, " I have just made 
 a discovery which places us all in imminent 
 danger ; for instead of Ivan Galetzoff, who was 
 
238 THE CIRCASSIAN CHIEF. 
 
 supposed to have been murdered, I find that it 
 was the young Count Flatoff, who fell a victim 
 to the dagger of an assassin, having in his 
 possession the important dispatches for St. 
 Petersburg, which he had undertaken to convey 
 thither. Nothing was found about his person, 
 when his corpse was discovered, so that there 
 is every probability that the murderer has pos- 
 sessed himself of the documents. Some of the 
 Count's friends here have been making in- 
 quiries for him, on finding that he had not set 
 off, and it was thus I first suspected that he 
 was the person found murdered. We are, 
 therefore, completely in the power of whoever 
 possesses those papers, for even the assassin 
 himself would obtain pardon for the deed from 
 the government, in return for the valuable in- 
 formation he can give." 
 
 This announcement caused deep alarm among 
 the conspirators, who immediately broke off 
 their debate, to prepare for departure and sepa- 
 ration. But what was their dismay, when on 
 emerging from the garden, they found every 
 avenue occupied by officers of police, and one 
 by one as the foremost appeared, were made pri- 
 soners. The rest, seeing the fate of their friends. 
 
THE CIRCASSIAN CHIEF. 239 
 
 formed into a body, and made a desperate effort 
 to cut their way through the guards ; some suc- 
 ceeding ; but by far the greater number fell into 
 the hands of their enemies. Those who got off 
 fled in all directions, pursued by the police, but 
 very few escaped. 
 
240 THE CIFXASSIAN CHIEF. 
 
 CHAPTER XIV. 
 
 Oh could thy hand unaided, free thy country. 
 Nor mingled guilt pollute the sacred cause. 
 
 DR. JOHNSON, IRENE. 
 
 The young Pole, Thaddeus Stanisloff, had 
 been appointed to a regiment, destined to pro- 
 ceed \\ith many others to join the army in the 
 Caucasus, now quartered in Moscow on its way 
 to the south. On the same day, that Ivan had 
 been driven from the chateau of the Baron 
 Galetzoff, he left his home to join his regiment ; 
 taking a farewell, which he felt might too pro- 
 bably be the last, of his broken-hearted father, 
 now rapidly drawing towards his end, worn out 
 by grief and sickness. He received also the 
 warm and cordial adieus of his generous and 
 hisrh-minded host. 
 
 Thaddeus, naturaEy light-hearted and gay, by 
 the time he reached Moscow, had forgotten the 
 
THE CIRCASSIAN CHIEF. 241 
 
 sorrow of parting, and was looking forward to 
 the pleasure of again meeting his friend Ivan, 
 as, soon after dusk, he rode through the streets 
 towards the hotel where he expected to find him ; 
 but was disappointed on hearing that he had 
 already gone out. He immediately set forth on 
 foot by himself, in hopes of finding him at some of 
 their usual places of resort, when, soon after 
 leaving the hotel, the light of a torch falling 
 strongly on his features, a small and feminine 
 figure, who was about to pass on, stopped to 
 look attentively at his face, and then addressed 
 him in a timid and agitated manner. As she 
 looked up to speak, the veil which had before 
 concealed her face dropt on one side, and dis- 
 covered the features of the Gipsy girl Azila. 
 
 '^ I meet you most fortunately," she said, " for 
 you may be able to give assistance, where it will 
 be much required. Are you ready to meet a 
 great danger to assist a friend ?" 
 
 " I should be unworthy to be called a friend, 
 by any whom I should hesitate to aid, whatever 
 the risk to myself," answered Thaddeus. " But 
 of whom do you speak?" 
 
 " Of your friend, Ivan Galetzoff ! I have this 
 moment been to his hotel, in the hope of warn- 
 
 VOL. I. M 
 
242 THE CIRCASSIAN CHIEF. 
 
 ing him of an impending danger, with which I 
 have but just become acquainted. I could not 
 trust any other with such a communication to 
 him ; he has abeady gone out, and although I 
 am too late to prevent him from encountering 
 danger, I may yet be able to rescue him with 
 your assistance." 
 
 " That, I wiU gladly give at every risk," an- 
 swered Thaddeus. " But how am I to find 
 him ? Where is he, that I may hasten to his 
 aid ?" 
 
 " That, I may not teU you," answered Azila ; 
 " but tmst wholly in me, and I will place you 
 where you may be ready to lend your assistance, 
 if required." 
 
 • " I win trust entirely to your guidance," said 
 Thaddeus. 
 
 " I knew that you w^ere too noble to hesitate," 
 rejoined Azila, in a deep tone of gratitude. " Let 
 us then waste no more time here." 
 
 " Lead the way, fair lady, and I will follow," 
 said Thaddeus. 
 
 " Have you your weapons ?" she asked, " for 
 they may be needed." 
 
 " Yes, I carry my sword under my cloak." 
 " That is well," said Azila ; " and now, Sir, 
 
THE CIRCASSIAN CHIEF. 243 
 
 follow me closely, and promptly, or we may be 
 too late." 
 
 Azila, looking back for an instant, to see 
 that Thaddeus followed, then advanced at so 
 rapid a pace, threading her way through the 
 intricate streets, that he could scarcely keep up 
 without running. She crossed the river by one 
 of the bridges, and passed through several de- 
 solate streets, where many of the houses had 
 not yet been raised from their ashes, hurrying 
 on, till she arrived beneath the dark shadow of 
 a broad archway, and then paused. 
 
 Here she spoke to her companion, in a low 
 earnest whisper : "I cannot lead you further, 
 but you must consent to remain here patiently, 
 till your assistance be called for, or until I re- 
 turn ; as I now must hasten to summon one of 
 my tribe, who are in the neighboui^iood, to aid 
 in your friend's escape. Wrap yourself closely 
 in your cloak, and remain concealed within this 
 arch; keep your sword drawn for a sudden 
 rescue, for I have reason to suppose that your 
 friend will be set upon by assassins, as he passes 
 near this spot. At all events, be cautious and 
 on the alert." 
 
 Gliding away noiselessly from the spot, she 
 
 M 2 
 
244 THE CIRCASSIAN CHIEF. 
 
 then left Thaddeus, who forthwith retired into 
 the darkest comer, effectually concealed from 
 any passer by, beneath the buttresses of the 
 arch. He did not exactly comprehend by what 
 means his friend had exposed himself to the 
 danjrer, but it was sufficient for him to know 
 that his aid w^as required, no matter at what 
 risk to himself; and he determined to abide the 
 result, whatever it might be. 
 
 He was doomed to keep a long watch ; strain- 
 ing his eyes in endeavouring to pierce through 
 the gloom, and intently listening, to catch the 
 sound of any approaching footstep ; when sud- 
 denly he heard the sound of voices in muttered 
 conference, apparently approaching the spot 
 where he stood concealed. 
 
 The arch, in which Azila had placed Thad- 
 deus, was not the same in which Groff had 
 concealed himself, ere he perpetrated the murder 
 of the young Count Flatoff, but at a short dis- 
 tance from it. The former w^ould not have 
 answ^ered the assassin's purpose, being too far 
 removed from the lane Ivan usually passed by. 
 This will account for Thaddeus now remaining 
 undisturbed in his concealment. 
 
 " Halt here, Kruntz," said one voice ; " this 
 
THE CIRCASSIAN CHIEF. 245 
 
 is the spot, I know it well, where I have seen 
 this cursed youth pass so often, and I recom- 
 mended our noble master to wait here for him. 
 Something has enraged the Count more than 
 ever against him, and he vows that he will not 
 be content, until he has passed his own sword 
 through him. He'll make sure of him, I war- 
 rant." 
 
 " More sure work than you did the other 
 night, Groff," said Kruntz. 
 
 "What mean you?" replied Groff; "what 
 work do you speak of?" 
 
 " What mean I ! why the murder of Count 
 Flatoff ! Tush, tush ! comrade, think not to hide 
 that from me, or fear that I would betray you. 
 I suspected that you had been about some dirty 
 work, when you came in, and I was not long in 
 discovering the truth." 
 
 " If you know it, what's the use of speaking 
 about it," hoarsely muttered Groff. " I'll not 
 make a mistake again, trust me. We will have 
 our revenge this time, and gain a reward. 
 A pretty work the youth has given us, what 
 with watching and hunting him about so 
 long." 
 
 " We ought to know each other by this time, 
 
246 THE CIRCASSIAN CHIEF. 
 
 Groff, and need keep no little seci'ets of this 
 sort from one another : so, no fear of my be- 
 traying you. But say, how did you manage to 
 find out that young Galetzoif is likely to pass 
 this way ?" 
 
 " Why, the Count set me to watch all his 
 haunts ; and several times I followed him in 
 this direction, when I suddenly lost sight of him 
 among the garden walls ; but after waiting here, 
 I found that he again passed by, and each night 
 he has done the same. I felt certain that it 
 was he, when I made the mistake the other 
 night ; but I will not fail a second time, trust 
 me ; and I know that he will come, for I am 
 sure it was he, we saw pass at dusk. Ah ! what 
 is that object on the ground, Kruntz ? see, it 
 moves ! It is too horrid to look at !" cried 
 Groff, in a hollow, husky voice. " I see its 
 mangled features. Do you believe in ghosts, 
 Kruntz ?" 
 
 " Ghosts — no !" answered Kruntz, jeeringly ; 
 " I never saw one yet. Why, what's the matter, 
 man? you are not wont to tremble. Rouse 
 yourself, Groff: be a man. Why, what is there 
 to care for, if you did put a wrong man out of 
 the way ; you are not the first who has done so." 
 
THE CIRCASSIAN CHIEF. 247 
 
 " It is well for you to laugh, Kruntz, who 
 have no feelings ; but if you had seen the hor- 
 rible sight that appeared to me just now, you 
 would have trembled." 
 
 "Nonsense, man," said his companion, "it 
 was all your fancy; and now get rid of such 
 ideas, for here comes some one. Be pre- 
 pared !" 
 
 Thaddeus heard nearly every word of this 
 conversation ; and becoming much alarmed for 
 the safety of his friend, stood ready to rush out 
 to his assistance, for he fancied that through the 
 gloom he saw him approaching. 
 
 As the footsteps drew near, the voice of 
 the Count ErintofF was heard : " Hist, hist ! 
 what, knaves, are you there ? Knmtz, Groff, 
 answer !" 
 
 The men who had been concealed by the arch, 
 stepped forward as they heard their master's 
 voice. 
 
 " Has the person I told you to watch for ap- 
 peared, or have you again let him escape you, 
 villains ?" 
 
 " No, Count," answered Kruntz : " no fear 
 of that. I owe him a broken head, and I don't 
 forget my debts. I should like to catch his 
 
248 THE CIRCASSIAN CHIEF. 
 
 friend, the other young fellow ; I would pay him 
 off all old scores." 
 
 " Hush, knaves !" said the Count. " Listen, 
 some one approaches : be prepared to rush out. 
 It is he !" 
 
 A footstep was heard. Thaddeus grasped 
 his sword more firmly — his heart beat high, as 
 he stood ready to spring from his hiding-place. 
 The person had reached the spot. It was Ivan; 
 for the Count and his servants sprung out upon 
 him, and attacked him furiously. 
 
 " Yield ; you are my prisoner !" exclaimed the 
 Count, making a pass with his sword at Ivan's 
 breast, though, fortunately, not so rapidly but 
 that he had time to spring aside, and draw his 
 own weapon, with which he had provided him- 
 self since Azila's warning ; this enabled him 
 to parry a second thrust made at him. 
 
 " Rescue! Ivan! here's rescue, my friend !" cried 
 Thaddeus, darting forward, most unexpectedly, 
 and beating down the swords of the two ser- 
 vants, who attempted to oppose him. " What 
 means this assassin-like attack ?" 
 
 He was met by Groff and Kruntz, who 
 had recovered from their surprise in a moment, 
 and now turned upon him with their whole 
 
THE CIRCASSIAN CHIEF. 249 
 
 united strength, while their master pressed Ivan 
 hard. 
 
 " Yield !" again exclaimed the Count, " you 
 are a traitor to Russia, and have joined in a dark 
 conspiracy against her laws." - 
 
 These words urged Ivan to defend himself 
 with greater determination ; and returning the 
 Count's attack with the utmost vigour, the 
 latter would have fallen a victim to his own 
 nefarious plot, had he not called Kruntz to 
 his aid. 
 
 Left to engage Thaddeus single-handed, 
 Groif now attacked him with such blind fury, 
 that he left his own person exposed ; while his 
 opponent, anxious to lend his aid to Ivan, who 
 was now so unequally beset, did his utmost to 
 disarm him. FaiHng in this attempt, he made 
 a lunge to terminate the contest, and his sword 
 passed through the body of his adversary, who 
 fell, with scarcely a groan, to the earth. In the 
 meantime, Ivan had defended himself success- 
 fully from his determined assailants ; but just as 
 his friend turned to his aid, his foot slipped, and 
 the Count obser\dng the movement, passed his 
 sword through his side. Thaddeus soon suc- 
 ceeded in disarming Kruntz, whiiiing his sword, 
 
 M 3 
 
250 THE CIRCASSIAN CHIEF. 
 
 by superior fence, out of his hand, and over the 
 adjoining wall, when the ruffian, instead of as- 
 sisting his master, turned and fled. Before the 
 latter had time to follow up his advantage, by a 
 second and more effectual wound on Ivan, he was 
 vigorously assailed by Thaddeus, who, pressing 
 him back to relieve his friend, disarmed him 
 likewise ; but, retreating behind a projecting 
 buttress, the Count baffled his pursuing adver- 
 sary, and being well acquainted with the different 
 intricate windings, he succeeded in effecting his 
 escape. 
 
 Retracing his steps, Thaddeus rejoined his 
 friend, at the moment when the latter, returning 
 to consciousness from the effects of his hurt, 
 attempted to raise himself from the earth. 
 Bending down by his side, he proceeded to bind 
 up his wound, and as Ivan recognised him, 
 he exclaimed : 
 
 " Fly, Thaddeus, fly ! for treachery and dan- 
 ger surround us : there is not a moment for 
 explanations ; but I beseech you to fly instantly, 
 or you wiU be involved in my ruin." 
 
 " Never could I leave you thus," replied 
 Thaddeus. " Lean on me for support, and per- 
 haps we may yet have time to escape." 
 
THE CIRCASSIAN CHIEF. 251 
 
 " Thanks for your generous aid," said Ivan ; 
 " but I fear escape is impossible ; I feel too 
 much hurt to walk, and you would inevitably be 
 overtaken : for be assured, that the Count has 
 but retreated to call the police, without whose 
 aid he first trusted to satiate his revenp-e. I 
 know too well, by the words he uttered, that I 
 am completely in his power, through secret in- 
 formation he has gained*" 
 
 At that moment, a light footstep was heard 
 approaching, and a female form appeared, whom 
 Thaddeus recognised as Azila. 
 
 A cry escaped her as she beheld Ivan hurt 
 and on the ground ; when, throwing herself be* 
 side him, she assisted Thaddeus in supporting 
 his wounded friend. 
 
 " Alas !" she cried, " unhappy I am that I 
 should have arrived too late to prevent this 
 calamity ; but I have friends on their way who 
 may stiU be of service." 
 
 " Thanks, fair girl," said Ivan, raising himself 
 with their assistance, "I will exert myself; but 
 first, persuade my friend to save himself by 
 flight, for his stay here can but subject him 
 to great peril, without affording me further 
 aid." 
 
252 THE CIRCASSIAN CHIEF. 
 
 " He speaks but too truly," said Azila, turn- 
 ing to Thaddeus. " It were, indeed, madness 
 to remain, and so offer another sacrifice to the 
 Count's revenge ; for believe me, your friend has 
 been betrayed by that dastard, Count Erintoff, and 
 has incurred the rigour of the most tyrannical 
 laws. Fly, therefore, while you have time, 
 before the police are upon us, when your uni- 
 form alone would betray you ; fear not for your 
 friend, his safety will be cared for." 
 
 Thaddeus still refused to desert his friend, in 
 spite of the latter 's persuasions ; when, as she 
 spoke, lights were seen to glimmer in the dis- 
 tance. 
 
 " Fly, fly, Thaddeus ! my dear friend !" cried 
 Ivan : " see, the police are approaching, and you 
 wiU but involve yourself in my misfortunes. 
 And you, lady, leave me to my fate ; your safety 
 is also perilled if you are discovered." 
 
 " I w^ill not quit you, Sir ; I have nothing to 
 fear," answered Azila. '• Ah !" she exclaimed, 
 " the Great Spirit is merciful !" as, at that mo- 
 ment, two dark forms emerged from the oppo- 
 site direction to that in which the lights had 
 appeared, and towards which she had constantly 
 been directing an inquiring glance. "These 
 
THE CIRCASSIAN CHIEF. 253 
 
 are my friends, and may yet be in time to save 
 
 you." 
 
 Two men then approached, to whom she 
 spoke in her own language, and instantly 
 they raised Ivan gently from the ground, and 
 bore him rapidly in the direction w^hence they 
 had come. 
 
 Azila led the way in silence. Thaddeus 
 followed, and he was happy to find that their 
 distance, from the lights carried by the police, 
 evidently increased. 
 
 The fugitives continued their way for some 
 time, along the dark and narrow lanes, amid 
 the ruined buildings we have already described, 
 and with which Azila seemed perfectly ac- 
 quainted ; never for a moment hesitating which 
 path to take, among the numerous turnings. 
 They at length paused in front of a huge pile 
 of buildings equally dilapidated, looming still 
 larger and darker in the gloom through which 
 they were seen. Their guide passing beneath a 
 low covered way, followed by the rest of the 
 party, struck a sharp blow on a small door, 
 scarcely distinguishable from the masonry which 
 surrounded it. It was opened without a 
 moment's delay ; the party entered, and after 
 
254 THE CIRCASSIAN CHIEF. 
 
 descending a few steps, Thaddeus found himself 
 in a small vaulted chamber. 
 
 The door was carefully closed behind them, 
 and a decrepid old man made his appearance, bear- 
 ing a lamp in his hand, with which he scrutinized 
 each individual on entering. The two athletic 
 gipsies now placed their wounded burthen on 
 a low pallet which stood at one end of the 
 vault, when Azila thus addressed the old 
 man: 
 
 " Father! I am come to entreat your suc- 
 cour for one in distress, who has escaped 
 from the police now in full search of him. 
 While here, he would, you know, be in safe- 
 
 ty-" 
 
 " Daughter," answered the old man, " I 
 would refuse you nothing. I will do my 
 utmost for the youth's safety ; but who is 
 this other ? An officer too ! what does he 
 here?" 
 
 " He is a fi-iend of the Wounded man, and 
 would not quit him, though at great danger to 
 himself," answered Azila. " Ere the morn 
 dawns, he must be from hence. But now that 
 you have granted us your hospitality, father, 
 we must attend to your wounded guest." 
 
THE CIRCASSIAN CHIEF. 255 
 
 It was indeed time, as from the exertion 
 Ivan had undergone, his wound bled afresh; 
 the old man, however, produced salves and 
 linen to apply to it ; but his hands trembled with 
 the feebleness of age as he performed the opera- 
 tion, assisted by Thaddeus. 
 
 " Ay, ay, I have bound up many wounds 
 in my day, and thought to have long ago 
 departed for that place where there wiU be none 
 to cure. God's will be done 1" 
 
 Ivan had just strength to express his thanks, 
 and feU back exhausted. In the mean time, 
 Azila had dispatched the two men to watch 
 the direction taken by the police, and to bring 
 back word, as soon as it would be safe for 
 Thaddeus to venture on his return to the city. 
 She then took her seat by the side of Ivan's 
 humble couch, watching each movement of his 
 paUid face, while Thaddeus was seated opposite, 
 and their old host busied himself in producing 
 various articles of refreshment, including a flask 
 of wine ; a small quantity of which considerably 
 revived Ivan. The old man kept moving about, 
 and muttering to himself, but bestowing few 
 words on the strangers. 
 
 After a considerable time, the scouts came 
 
256 THE CIRCASSIAN CHIEF. 
 
 back to report that the road was clear; the 
 pohce having returned to their posts in despair 
 that their prey had escaped. 
 
 " It is now time for you to depart, Sir," 
 said Azila, addressing Thaddeus, " for longer 
 delay here would be hazardous, w^hile your 
 friend, trust me, will be carefully attended to. 
 One of these men will be your guide, till you 
 reach a part of the city known to you." 
 
 As at these words Thaddeus rose to depart, 
 Ivan exclaimed : 
 
 " Adieu, my generous friend ! I know not 
 when we may next meet, for all around me 
 looks dark, and lowering ; but something within 
 teUs me, that I shall yet surmount aU difficul- 
 ties. Our courses, I fear, however, must be 
 widely different ; yours is clear before you, 
 though I sincerely wish that you would follow 
 mine. You shake your head. Well, weE, I 
 cannot now urge you to do as I wish ; but I 
 wiU take care to apprize you of my movements, 
 and perchance we may some day again meet in 
 happier circumstances." 
 
 After expressing his thanks to Azila, Thad- 
 deus followed one of the Gipsies, who conducted 
 him at a rapid place, tiU they arrived at a part 
 
THE CIRCASSIAN CHIEF. 25? 
 
 of the city with which he was familiar; when the 
 man pointing to the direction he was to 
 take, disappeared without waiting for an an- 
 swer ; and the young Pole soon after reached his 
 lodgings in safety. 
 
258 THE CIRCASSIAN CHIEF. 
 
 CHAPTER XV. 
 
 Though disappointment blast our g-eneral scheme. 
 Yet much remains to hope ; I shall not call 
 The day disastrous that secures our flight ; 
 Nor think that effort lost which rescues thee. 
 
 DR. JOHNSON IRENE. 
 
 A GENTLE and refreshing slumber stole over 
 Ivan's senses, banishing from his mind all 
 remembrance of the cares and dangers sur- 
 rounding him, as he lay on his couch, watched 
 over by the vigilant care of Azila. 
 
 He had been undisturbed in his place of 
 refuge for several hours, when he suddenly 
 started in his sleep, aroused by a singular and 
 hurried knocking at the door. Azila hastened 
 towards it, as the old man, slowly rising from 
 his seat, had begun, with muttered grumblings, 
 to undo the fastenings. 
 
 " In mercy, father, let him not in," said 
 Azila, " whoever it may be ! He may bring 
 
THE CIRCASSIAN CHIEF. 259 
 
 ruin on your guest. Oh ! bid him seek shelter, 
 or whatever he may want, elsewhere." 
 
 " Ay, that I would, with a pestUence on 
 mankind, who are for ever worrying me," 
 muttered the old man ; " but my oath — my oath 
 compels me. I may refuse admittance to none 
 who make the sign." 
 
 Again the knocking was repeated, as the old 
 man, having finished his task of unbarring, 
 opened the door, and a man pale as death, his 
 dress torn and disordered, sword in hand, 
 rushed into the vault. 
 
 " Hide me — hide me, father !" he exclaimed. 
 " All is lost ; many are taken, some slain, and 
 all dispersed ; and even now the police are 
 in pursuit of me." 
 
 The old man peered into the face of the new 
 comer to identify him, and as if to ask for an 
 explanation of what had happened; while the 
 stranger, on his part, looked with surprise at 
 seeing Azila and Ivan already occupants of the 
 vault. He was, however, recognized as one 
 of the conspirators, as he threw himself ex- 
 hausted on a stone bench. 
 
 " What means this agitation ?" said Ivan, 
 as the person recognised him; " what means 
 
260 THE CIRCASSTAN CHIEF. 
 
 this alarm ? for I scarcely heard the words you 
 spoke as you entered." 
 
 " Alas !" answered the conspirator, " our 
 noble enterprise has been discovered before all 
 was fully prepared, and is now utterly and for 
 ever overthrown. No sooner had the meeting 
 broke up, than, as we were separating, we found 
 the police gathering in strong force round all 
 the entrances to the garden. No time was to 
 be lost, many of our friends had already been 
 seized, when I, with others, made a desperate 
 rush through one of the avenues, less strongly 
 guarded than the others ; some of us escaping, 
 favoui'ed by the darkness, and our knowledge 
 of the situation ; and fear gi\ing swiftness to 
 my feet, I distanced all pursuers, and hastened 
 hither. Yet, at one time, I heard my enemies 
 following close behind me ; but they lost sight 
 of me among the lanes which lead to this spot. 
 Had the assembly broken up sooner, we should 
 have escaped for this night, as the police had 
 but just begun to arrive at the place, to 
 which some of the party must have been 
 traced by spies, or some foul treachery 
 has been at work. I had a narrow escape ; 
 but I had no fear when once I got outside, 
 
THE CIRCASSIAN CHIEF. 261 
 
 for I knew that you, father, would shelter 
 
 me." 
 
 " Ay, ay," muttered the old man, " at the 
 risk of suffering the knout again, and being sent 
 back in chains to Siberia, if they discovered who 
 I was. I have had enough of that already ; but 
 fear not, I will not betray you, and it wiU be 
 long before the knaves find out my den ; or 
 should the worst happen, here is a place they 
 would find it difficult to discover : — therefore, 
 should the police come here, you must conceal 
 yourself within." 
 
 At those words, he removed what appeared a 
 large ill-shapen slab, or rather block of stone, in 
 the wall, but which turned on well-made hinges, 
 and disclosed within, a recess or small chamber 
 ventilated by an aperture in the roof It had 
 evidently been formed with great labour and per- 
 severance for the purpose it was now to be put 
 to, and was capable of containing three or more 
 persons without inconvenience. 
 
 " If the police discover us here, your wounded 
 friend must also take refuge within this place ; 
 and they wiU have more wdt than I give them 
 credit for, if they espy him. Hark ! I hear 
 footsteps ; surely none can have betrayed me. If 
 so, aU is lost." 
 
262 THE CIRCASSIAN CHIEF. 
 
 Scarcely were the words uttered, than a thun- 
 dering attack of blows was heard at the door, 
 and a voice loudly demanding admittance in the 
 name of the Emperor. The conspirator turned 
 pale with terror, and rushed towards the en- 
 trance of the concealed chamber. 
 
 " Stay," said Azila, " would you leave your 
 wounded comrade to perish, while you secure 
 your own retreat? First place him in safety, 
 and all will be well ; fear not, for I will soon 
 manage to get rid of our unwelcome visi- 
 tors." 
 
 Ivan thanked her with a look of gratitude, as 
 the conspirator, following her directions, with the 
 feeble aid of the old man, lifted him through the 
 narrow aperture, and laid him on some straw 
 hastily thrown together ; when Azila, carefully 
 closing the entrance, prepared to receive the 
 emissaries of justice. She threw a cloak over 
 her head and shoulders, so as completely to 
 cover her form and features, busying herself 
 over the fire, as if watching some culinary ope- 
 ration, while the old man employed himself in 
 slowing unbarring the door, muttering and 
 growling as if just aroused from sleep. 
 
 A second and more impatient summons 
 made him hasten to withdraw the bolts, when 
 
THE CIRCASSIAN CHIEF. 263 
 
 the door flew open, almost knocking him down, 
 and a party of the police rushed into the vault, 
 but started back confounded, on beholding who 
 were its sole occupants. 
 
 Azila's watchful eye marked the servant of 
 Count Erintoif — the ruffian Kruntz, among the 
 party. 
 
 " Well, I could have sworn," said the man ; 
 " that I saw some person enter here not a 
 quarter of an hour ago ; and I know that he 
 could not have again escaped without my seeing 
 him." 
 
 " This is strange," said the leader of the 
 police, " we must question the old man, if he 
 has sense enough to understand us. Here, old 
 man ! has any one lately left this mansion of 
 yours ?" 
 
 ** Few come to visit one overcome with age 
 and infiiTQities, who dwells in a dark vault 
 where the light of day scarcely enters," said the 
 hermit ; " no, no ! they leave me alone to die in 
 peace and quiet, it is all I require. What is it 
 that • you desire of me, gentlemen ? can I do 
 aught to serve you? I have, indeed, little to 
 offer !" 
 
 " Cease your prating, old man !" said the 
 
264 THE CIRCASSIAN CHIEF. 
 
 officer, " and listen to what I say. A foul plot 
 has just been discovered, and some of the con- 
 spirators have taken refuge in this neighbour- 
 hood. Now barken ! I am not to be trifled with : 
 vou, old man, know somewhat of them." 
 
 "Woe is the day, that such things should 
 be !" cried the old man. " Look around — see ! 
 none are here ; there must be some mistake." 
 
 " We shall prove it," exclaimed the police 
 officer, who, exasperated at the chance of hife 
 prey escaping him, produced a thick leathern 
 thong, with which he struck the aged hermit a 
 violent blow across the shoulders ; " this will 
 refresh your wits and ideas perchance. Say ! 
 can'st thou now remember, old knave ; or must 
 another blow yet revive you ?" 
 
 " I cannot speak more than the tiiith," said 
 the old man, meekly, and bowing before the 
 petty t}Tant, too well accustomed to such deeds. 
 " Your stripes can draw no more than the truth 
 from me, I know not of whom you speak." 
 
 "Is it so !" cried the officer, now growing 
 furious at his disappointment, and having strong 
 suspicions that he had, in some way, been de- 
 ceived. " We shall see what efficacy there is in 
 leather to draw the truth from you," aiming at 
 
\ 
 
 ' \ THE CIRCASSIAN CHIEF. 265 
 
 \ 
 
 the same time several more blows at the old man, 
 which made him shrink down cowering before 
 the barbarian, though he uttered no words of 
 complaint, nor could the slightest information be 
 elicited from him. 
 
 Since the entrance of the myrmidons of 
 police, Azila had kept her seat apparently un- 
 noticed, bending down her head before the fire, 
 her cloak concealing her features so effectually 
 •that none could know them ; at the same time 
 keeping a watchful eye on those whose presence 
 caused such risk to Ivan's safety ; hoping that a 
 woman's wit, in case of necessity, would lead 
 them astray. She now, however, could no 
 longer contain her indignation at the cowardly 
 assault by the police officer on the defenceless 
 and decrepid old man, for, suddenly rising from 
 her seat, she boldly confronted the tyrant. 
 
 Drawing herself up to her full height, and as- 
 suming a look of proud disdain, she thus ad- 
 dressed the brutal ruffian : 
 
 " Dastardly tyrant, can you not find some 
 nobler object to vent your unjust rage upon, 
 and to display your power, than yonder decrepid 
 old man ? Perchance you may deem a weak 
 and helpless w^oman a fitter subject for the 
 
 VOL. I. N 
 
266 THE CIRCASSIAN CHIEF. 
 
 exercise of your proud prerogative, if so — strike ! 
 fear not ! I can bear as much as that infirm 
 old man — perchance more. What ! are you 
 afraid ? Then order some of your myrmidons to 
 begin the attack ; do they also lack courage ? Oh I 
 most brave and noble band to fear an old man^ 
 and young woman ! Go your way then, if you 
 have no better errand — or search here fii'st, for 
 what you want !" 
 
 The rough natures of the men were awed by* 
 the majestic air, and authoritative manner of Azila, 
 for they drew back to the entrance of the cavern ; 
 while their leader foamed with rage at finding 
 himself baffled by a young girl ; but he meditated 
 revenge. 
 
 Azila had shewn much tact in drawing off the 
 officer's anger from the old man to herself, and 
 then working him into a fury, and increasing it 
 so as to confuse his faculties, and prevent him 
 from making a stricter search, when the retreat 
 of the two conspirators might by chance have 
 been discovered. Her plan had well nigh suc- 
 ceeded, and the officer was preparing to depart, 
 when something seemed to strike him as left 
 undone, and turning to the old man, he seized 
 him roughly by the shoulder demanding his 
 
THE CIRCASSIAN CHIEF. 267 
 
 name; the latter hesitating to give this at 
 once, brought upon himself a fresh shower of 
 blows. 
 
 " Stay — stay your hand !" cried he, " do you 
 demand my name ? alas ! my memory is so bad 
 that I can scarcely remember it; but I am 
 called Orenoif, and I live here on the charity 
 which a few people, whose hearts are not yet 
 turned to stone, bestow on me. My heart has 
 undergone a like fate, else I could not bear 
 your treatment." 
 
 While the old man was babbling away in this 
 strain, the officer made notes on paper, and 
 presently turning to Azila, said : 
 
 "Now, Madam, you must give me some 
 account of yourself, or else prepare to follow me. 
 What do you here ?" 
 
 " I answer your questions," replied Azila, 
 " because forsooth, it pleases me to do so. I 
 came then to attend yonder weak, sick old 
 man, and to bring him food and medicine, for 
 he has none other to attend him." 
 
 " Whence do you come, then ?" demanded 
 the officer. 
 
 " From a noble and charitable lady," said 
 Azila ; " and perchance it may occur to your 
 
 N 2 
 
268 THE CIRCASSIAN CHIEF. 
 
 wisdom, that it was my cloak, which w^as seen 
 entering the vault, and which your spies took 
 for one of the conspirators T 
 
 " If you can give no better account of your- 
 self than this, you must accompany me forth- 
 with," said the officer. 
 
 " But, should it not be my pleasure to leave, 
 you may experience some difficulty in compelling 
 me," replied Azila. 
 
 The officer smiled grimly, and was stepping 
 forward to seize her slight figure, which could 
 indeed have offered but a slight resistance to his 
 gi'asp, when she exclaimed : 
 
 " Stand aside, and touch m^e at your peril !" 
 producing at the same time a paper from her 
 bosom. " Know you that signature ?" she said. 
 " Go your way, and leave this old man to rest, 
 who is too ill and infirm to move hence, and 
 learn in future to exercise your bravery on ob- 
 jects capable of self-defence." 
 
 The police officer, with an abashed and scow^l- 
 ing look, now prepared to depart ; still however 
 shew^ing some hesitation, as if doubtful of acting 
 wisely ; but a significant wave of Azila's hand, 
 decided him to order his men to withdraw, w^hen 
 they, glad to escape, soon made their exit through 
 
THE CIRCASSIAN CHIEF. 269 
 
 the narrow door-way of the vault, followed by 
 their leader. 
 
 As their footsteps were heard receding, the 
 old man hastened to close the door, but was 
 checked by Azila. 
 
 " No, father," she said, " let them not suppose 
 that we have aught to conceal, by manifesting 
 haste to shut them out, or they may perhaps 
 return and renew their search, although I think 
 their brutal leader would rather not attempt it." 
 Some minutes accordingly elapsed, ere the door 
 was again closed and barred. 
 
 While this scene was taking place, Ivan's 
 feelings may be better conceived than described, 
 as he lay concealed with his companion in their 
 narrow cell ; first, on hearing the entrance of the 
 poKce, and their treatment of the old man, and 
 again when their leader threatened to seize 
 Azila. At first he felt inclined to rush out, and 
 at all risks to arrest the barbarian, but the pain 
 of his wound recalled him to timely reason, and 
 he reflected that the act would not only sacrifice 
 his companion and himself, but also indeed 
 doubly commit his aged host and Azila. The 
 maiden appeared at the entrance of the ceU, soon 
 after the pohce had withdrawn, and addressing 
 its inmates, said : 
 
270 THE CIRCASSIAN CHIEF. 
 
 " For the present, I trust you are safe, 
 but I cannot answer for how long a time you 
 may remain so, as the police will yet keep a 
 w^atch on this place. I should advise, you. 
 Sir, who are strong and able to seek safety else- 
 where, to retire from hence as soon as I can 
 ascertain that the road be clear ; I am even con- 
 fident, that they will return here again before 
 long. Are you ready to depart ?" 
 
 " Yes, yes," replied the conspirator, " I would 
 rather trust myself to the dangers of the open 
 streets, than run the risk of being taken here, 
 like a fox in his hole ; but it will be a perilous 
 undertaking to run the gauntlet through the 
 bands of the lynx-eyed police. Can I serve my 
 friend, Galetzoff ? and shall I not leave him in 
 greater danger?" 
 
 " Fear not for him, leave him to my charge ;" 
 answered Azila, " and now, be ready to fly 
 hence on my return. I will learn from those 
 on the watch if all be safe." 
 
 The maiden departed, the old man closing the 
 door with the utmost caution, while the cons- 
 pirator pressed Ivan's hand, bidding him fare- 
 well, and stood ready to sally forth on her return. 
 She soon came back, assuring him that none of 
 the police were to be seen in the neighbourhood ; 
 
THE CIRCASSIAN CHIEF, 271 
 
 with hurried and * anxious look, he then rushed 
 forth to reach a safer refuge, 
 
 The door was now again secured with bar and 
 bolt. Assuming the same bashful and retiring 
 manner as before, when in Ivan's presence, so 
 different from her usual free and independent 
 bearing, when in discourse with others, Azila 
 addressed the wounded youth, 
 
 " I must now leave you for a while," she said, 
 "for I go to seek means to enable you to es- 
 cape hence, in safety, to the tents of my people, 
 where yoiu* wound will be quickly healed, and 
 you may dwell until you gain strength to fly 
 from the country. Until my return, I confide 
 you to the care of an old and tried friend, and a 
 trusty guard watches outside, who will give im- 
 mediate notice of the slightest danger." Then 
 making her usual oriental obeisance, she with- 
 drew towards the door, lingering to cast one 
 look on her patient ; and before he had time to 
 express his thanks, she had quitted the vault. 
 
 Ivan was left in the recess, the entrance being 
 open, while his aged host prepared himself for 
 slumber on a pallet in a corner of the vault ; he 
 followed the latter's example, although every 
 passing sound aroused him. 
 
272 THE CIRCASSIAN CHIEF. 
 
 The remainder of the night waned, no fresh 
 event occurring to disturb the occupants of the 
 dreary vault. No sooner had a few streaks of 
 morning found ingress through the crevices of 
 the walls, than the old man arose from his un- 
 easy couch, and after tendering his services to 
 Ivan, proceeded to prepare a morning meal. 
 This considerably revived his wounded guest, 
 though the pain he suffered had not diminished. 
 Still the very recollection of his narrow escape 
 gave him hopes for the future, and he looked 
 forward with eagerness to the time when his 
 present confinement would cease, and he should 
 again breathe the piire air of Heaven in unre- 
 strained liberty. Occupied with these thoughts, 
 he passed the remainder of the day, anxiously 
 awaiting Azila's return. 
 
THE CIRCASSIAN CHIEF. 273 
 
 CHAPTER XVI. 
 
 And what must love be in a heart 
 All passion's fiery depth concealing, 
 Which has in its minutest part 
 More than another's whole of feeling 
 
 L. E. L. 
 
 The principal place of resort of that singular 
 race of people, the Zingani, or Gipsies, or as 
 they universally call themselves the Rommany ; 
 of whom there are several thousands in and 
 ahout Moscow ; is the Marina Rochte, lying 
 about two versts distant from the city. 
 
 Most of these people obtain their livelihood in 
 Moscow, either by keeping taverns, or by deal- 
 ing in horses and by various other like kinds of 
 traffic, bearing in general but an indifferently 
 good character. The class, however, to which 
 we now allude, are of the lowest order; whose 
 females sing at the taverns and different public 
 
 n3 
 
274 THE CIRCASSIAN CHIEF. 
 
 gardens in the neighbourhood, and are not of 
 the best repute, as to modesty of behaviour. 
 Here they congregate in great numbers, their 
 countenances resembling those of their race who 
 are to be met with in England ; of brown com- 
 plexions, and for the most part having beautiful 
 and regular features ; their eyes fiery and intelli- 
 gent ; their hair, somewhat coarse, of coal black 
 hue; and all having the same free and inde- 
 pendent bearing. 
 
 There is, however, another class of Zingani, 
 whose very existence will surprise those who 
 have been accustomed to consider these people 
 as mere wandering barbarians, incapable of civi- 
 lization, and unable to appreciate the blessings 
 of a quiet and settled life; for many of them 
 inhabit large and handsome houses in Moscow, 
 appear abroad in elegant equipages, and are 
 scarcely to be distinguished from the upper 
 classes of the Russians, unless, indeed by pos- 
 sessing superior personal advantages and mental 
 accomplishments. Of this singular social phe- 
 nomenon at Moscow, the female Gipsies are the 
 principal cause, having from time immemorial 
 cultivated their vocal powers, with such effect, 
 that although in the heart of a country in which 
 
THE CIRCASSIAN CHIEF. 275 
 
 the vocal art has arrived at a greater perfection 
 than perhaps in any other part of the world, the 
 principal gipsy choirs in that city are, by uni- 
 versal consent, allowed to be unrivalled. 
 
 The sums obtained by these singers, are 
 very large, enabling them to live in luxury 
 of every description, and to maintain their hus- 
 bands in almost princely magnificence. Many 
 are married to Russian gentlemen of considera- 
 tion. The lovely, talented, and domestic wife of 
 a Count, well-known in the highest, circles of 
 Moscow, is by birth a Gipsy, and was formerly 
 the chief pride of a Rommany choir at Moscow, 
 as she is now one of the principal ornaments of 
 refined society. 
 
 In no other part of the world do the gipsies 
 flourish as they do in Russia, affording a great 
 contrast to the wretched hordes steeped in penury 
 and vice, who infest the Peninsula ; and to the 
 low thieving trampers of England and Scotland, 
 existing by petty pillage ; such bands often being 
 indeed but a collection of the lowest vagabonds 
 of every description intermingled with the ori- 
 ginal race. 
 
 There are many opinions as to the land from 
 whence the Zingani have sprung ; it is generally 
 
276 THE CIRCASSIAN CHIEF. 
 
 supposed, that they originally came fi^om Hin- 
 dostan, being of the lowest class of Indians, 
 called Suders, or those who have lost caste; 
 that they migrated from thence in great num- 
 bers in 1409, when Timour Beg ravaged India, 
 to spread with fire and sword the tenets of the 
 Mahomedan religion. It seems probable that 
 in their way towards Egypt, where we first hear 
 of them, that they resided for a time in the coun- 
 try called Zinganen, at the mouth of the Indus, 
 from whence they may perhaps have gained the 
 name of Zingani. By what route they reached 
 Egypt fi'om thence, is not known, but they had 
 fixed themselves there in great numbers in 1517, 
 when Sultan Selim conquered the country. 
 They revolted from his rule, under a leader who 
 has assumed the name of Zinganeus, probably 
 from being chosen chief of that people; but were 
 completely worsted, being again compelled to 
 seek safety in flight, and made their appearance 
 in Europe in large bands about the year 1520. 
 Some of their leaders, who with their followers 
 found their way to the northern parts of Europe, 
 called themselves dukes and lords of Lower 
 Egypt, endeavouring to impose on the people, 
 among whom they came, with pretentions of 
 
THE CIRCASSIAN CHIEF. 277 
 
 rank and dignity ; in this, however, they were 
 not very successful, soon sinking into a class 
 considered no better than rogues and vaga- 
 bonds. 
 
 In Russia, on the contrary, among an igno- 
 rant and barbarous population, their various 
 talents and acuteness enabled them to sustain a 
 superior station ; nor have they, at any time, 
 been there subject to the persecutions and indig- 
 nities which they have had to endure in other 
 countries of Europe. Though some, as we have 
 said, have taken up their abode in cities, others 
 still retain their primitive and wandering habits, 
 living in tents ; and roving from place to place, 
 as may suit their fancy ; or as they find it con- 
 venient to carry on the pursuits by which they 
 exist. 
 
 The tribe or family to which Azila belonged, 
 was under the guidance of a sagacious leader, and 
 was compelled by him to refrain from all ma- 
 rauding habits. Though the Zingani chief was 
 possessed of considerable wealth, he w^as of too 
 free and independent a disposition to confine 
 himself to the trammels and restraint of the 
 social life of a city, prefening the more varied 
 and roving existence enjoyed in a camp. He 
 
278 THE CIRCASSIAN CHIEF. 
 
 had, however, numerous connexions of every 
 rank in the city ; among the most superior of 
 whom, his daughter Azila, had in truth been 
 educated, and when her own inclinations led her 
 to return to her father's camp, she was still re- 
 garded by them with the greatest affection ; and 
 it was by their aid, assisted by her own talent 
 and penetration, that she was able to collect the 
 varied information, which as we have seen, was 
 of so much importance to the conspirators. 
 
 It is towards the close of one of the few 
 bright and balmy days which cheer the hearts of 
 the Russians in their short-lived summer, that 
 we must again introduce our readers to the 
 camp of oui' friend, the Zingani chief. It had 
 lately been pitched on the confines of a wood, 
 at a short distance from Marina Rochte ; and it 
 was evident, from fewer people than usual being 
 seen about the encampments, that many had 
 joined their brethren in the village, to enjoy 
 their constant amusements of dancing, singing, 
 and other sports. 
 
 At a short distance from the tented circle, the 
 Zingani chief was slowly pacing the grass, with 
 his arms crossed on his bosom, and lost in 
 thought. At length he soliloquized aloud : 
 
THE CIRCASSIAN CHIEF. 279 
 
 " This is the baneful effect of departing from 
 our ancient laws and customs, by taking part in 
 the affairs of the people with whom we dwell ; 
 losing our freedom and independence, by be- 
 coming subject to their cruel and unjust laws. 
 Ought not I to have prevented that loved girl 
 from trammelling herself with the affairs of 
 others, who would show but little gratitude for 
 her exertions, even if successful ; and now too, 
 probably, she herself may be in danger : and if 
 so, what resource have I but to declare her pa- 
 rentage. That would save her : but the so 
 doing would bring ruin on one who still lives. 
 If she falls into the power of the tyrannical dis- 
 pensers of the law, her fate would be dreadful. 
 Should I not then save her ? Yes, I must, even 
 at the expense of the oath I so thoughtlessly 
 took. It provided not for such an emergency. 
 It must be done ; and even thus, it would well 
 nigh break my heart to part from her ; to see 
 her subject to aU the deceit and treachery to 
 which her station would expose her — to see her 
 free-born spiiit oppressed by the strict rules and 
 absurd etiquette of society; to see her go- 
 verned by one who could not appreciate her 
 qualities, and shrinking before his stern and 
 
280 THE CIRCASSIAN CHIEF. 
 
 savage glance ; confined too within walls, and no 
 longer allowed to wander in free and unrestrained 
 liberty. And yet, some will say that I am 
 acting \wongly ; that I am depriving her of the 
 enjoyment of luxuries and of wealth, which are 
 her due. Fools — fools ! who value w^orthless 
 gold, outw^ard pomp, and idle, debilitating effe- 
 minacy, to health, and the free air of hea- 
 ven." 
 
 As he again turned, he saw the object of his 
 thoughts approaching, at a quick pace, from the 
 direction of the city. Azila appeared hiuTied and 
 eager in manner ; and after holding a short con- 
 ference with her father, they entered together 
 within the circle of tents. The gipsy chief 
 then summoned round him the men who yet 
 remained in the encampment — persons in whom 
 he could place the utmost reliance in cases of 
 emergency. 
 
 " Men of Rommany !" he said, addressing 
 them in that style of language which they most 
 love to hear, " there is an arduous and dan- 
 gerous task to be performed, which will require 
 the utmost sagacity and care. I have, there- 
 fore, summoned you around me, to select one 
 who will swear to undertake it; but whoever 
 
THE CIRCASSIAN CHIEF. 281 
 
 offers himself, must know, that he risks his 
 Hberty, and perhaps his life." 
 
 As he finished speaking, a youth stepped for- 
 ward fi:*om the circle of his companions, ex- 
 claiming : 
 
 " I am ready to undertake whatever you 
 propose, if it be within the power of man !" 
 
 The keen, lustrous, dark eye ; handsome and 
 intelligent countenance ; and well-knit limbs of 
 the youth, were powerful recommendations in 
 his favour ; and the chief, without hesitation, 
 selected him. 
 
 " I well know that I can trust you," said the 
 chief; "the task will require all your sagacity 
 and courage. Its main object is to ensure the 
 freedom of the young stranger. But remember, 
 Javis, that if your attempt be discovered, chains, 
 imprisonment, and banishment, will infallibly be 
 your lot : and for your reward, if you succeed, 
 the utmost I can give, are my own and Azila's 
 grateful thanks. More she cannot give," he 
 added, as a blush rose, for a moment, on the 
 youth's dark cheek. 
 
 " I ask not for reward," answered the youth. 
 " It is but a debt of gratitude each man of 
 
282 THE CIRCASSIAN CHIEF. 
 
 the tribe owes to the young stranger; and I 
 should be base if I were not ready to pay it : I 
 will save him, or perish in the attempt." 
 
 " I trust you fully, Javis," said the chief; 
 " and now we will call Azila to our conference." 
 
 He beckoned his daughter to approach ; and 
 for a considerable time they held an earnest con- 
 sultation together. 
 
 As they finished speaking, a boy ran in, to 
 inform the chief that a stranger was approach- 
 ing the encampment. 
 
 " I will speak with him," said the chief." 
 
 In a few minutes the boy returned, accom- 
 panied by a peasant, whose weary and sorrowful 
 appearance seemed to demand compassion. 
 
 " Who are you ?" said the chief, eyeing him 
 naiTowly, and apparently satisfied with his 
 scrutiny. " Who are you, who come uninvited 
 among the people of Rommany? What do 
 you seeK with us ?" 
 
 " If you are the person I take you to be, you 
 shall presently know," answered the peasant; 
 " tell me, are you not that kind, honest Gipsy, 
 w^ho was once very civil to ray master; 
 my poor young master, whom I have been 
 
THE CIRCASSIAN CHIEF. 283 
 
 seeking all over the city, and can hear nothing 
 of. Alas ! alas ! I fear that he is in great 
 peril." 
 
 " Who is your master ?" asked the Gipsy ; 
 " when I know that, I may perhaps answer 
 some of your questions." 
 
 " My poor young master," replied the pea- 
 sant, who proved to be our old friend Karl, 
 " is the son of Baron Galetzoif. Well, I was 
 sent to Moscow to-day, and venturing to pay 
 a visit to my young Lord, I heard that he had 
 disappeared, nobody knows where. I have been 
 seeking for him all day, in every place I could 
 think of, and have now come to ask you, if 
 you know any thing of him ?" 
 
 " It is not my custom to answer the questions 
 of those whom I do not know," said the Gipsy. 
 " Tell me, how came you to suppose, that I 
 could teU you any thing of your master ?" 
 
 " Why, for this reason," said Karl ; " I 
 once heard my poor young master, and his 
 friend Thaddeus Stanisloff, speak of a Zingani 
 chief, who had promised to assist them, if they 
 got into any difficulties. Well, as I was wan- 
 dering about, and looking in search of my 
 master, I saw some of the Rornmany people; 
 
284 THE CIRCASSIAN CHIEF. 
 
 and I bethought me that I would come out 
 here, and learn if their chief was in the neigh- 
 bourhood, and if he knew any thing of my dear 
 master." 
 
 " Well, my good friend," said the Gipsy, 
 who was pleased with poor Karl's simplicity 
 and sincerity, " go back now to the city, and 
 say not a word more of your master ; but 
 return here to-morrow, at day-break, and be 
 careful that you are unobserved, and perhaps 
 you may then see him." 
 
 " Thanks, most kind and worthy Sir," an- 
 swered Karl, " you have made my heart light and 
 happy again." 
 
 He then took his leave, as desired, and 
 returned to Moscow ; where, as he was wander- 
 ing about, looking into various shops, to pass 
 the time, he met an acquaintance, to whom 
 he could not resist giving the gratifying in- 
 telligence, that he had heard of his young 
 master, the son of the Baron Galetzoff, as he 
 still persisted in calling Ivan. He did not 
 observe that a stranger was standing within 
 ear-shot, at the time; but he soon found, to 
 his cost, the effects of his thoughtless communi- 
 cation ; for, within, an hour, he was seized by 
 
THE CIRCASSIAN CHIEF. 285 
 
 some of the police, and dragged immediately 
 before a magistrate. 
 
 He was at first mildly interrogated respecting 
 Ivan, in the hope of extracting some voluntary 
 information from him. The magistrate then 
 pressed him more severely, but discovered that 
 the prisoner was a most difficult subject to 
 exert his authority upon, and when sternly or- 
 dered to confess all he knew, he stoutly denied 
 ever having received any information of the 
 person in question. 
 
 Unfortunately, however, for poor Karl, his 
 perseverance was of no avail to himself, for his 
 acquaintance, who had confessed all he knew, 
 was confronted with him. Another person was 
 found, who proved that he was a serf of the 
 Baron Galetzoff, and consequently must have 
 known the son of that noble. His denial was 
 therefore of no further service to him, and the 
 next day, he was ordered before a criminal 
 court then sitting, where for his contumacy in 
 refusing to answer any questions, he was con- 
 demned forthwith to receive the punishment 
 of the knout. 
 
 Poor Karl turned pale when he heprd his 
 sentence pronounced, but his courage did not 
 
286 THE CIRCASSIAN CHIEF. 
 
 forsake him, and he determined to undergo any 
 tortm-e, rather than betray his young master. 
 He was dragged off, therefore, to receive his 
 punishment, mth two other criminals convicted 
 of heinous crimes, and whose pallid counte- 
 nances and trembling limbs, betokened their 
 dread of the coming torture. 
 
 The place of execution and punishment is in 
 an open space, outside one of the barriers of 
 the city ; and there a mob of skin-clad labourers 
 and peasants had collected, as they saw the 
 prisoners approach, conducted by their guards 
 and the officers, whose duty it was to see that 
 punishment was duly inflicted. 
 
 Even in Russia, the executioner or Palatch, 
 as he is called, is looked upon wdth the same 
 opprobrium and dislike as in most other coun- 
 tries, and he is always some criminal, still con- 
 sidered as a prisoner, but lodges by himself in a 
 solitary house outside the gates of the city. 
 Instances have occurred of criminals actually 
 refusing the odious office, preferring, rather than 
 undertake its cruel duties, the weary and toil- 
 some journey to Siberia, with all the miseries 
 and wretchedness incident to it, and an eternal 
 banishment from their country. 
 
THE CIRCASSIAN CHIEF. 287 
 
 The Palatch, on the present occasion, was a 
 criminal sentenced for life to hard labour in the 
 Siberian mines for murder. The mere appear- 
 ance of this man, bespoke that savage disposi- 
 tion, which could find gratification in the exercise 
 of his horrid occupation. Underneath his led 
 tangled locks, a scowling forehead protruded, 
 exhibiting beneath his rough eye-brows, a pair 
 of bleared eyes ; a flattish, turned up nose, was 
 the only other feature to be seen on his face, his 
 mouth being concealed by a mass of grizzly red 
 hair, which covered the lower part of his face. 
 Even the yoke-necked, slavish multitude, set up 
 a shout of disgust, as the hated inflictor of cruelty 
 appeared ; but he seemed callous to their feel- 
 ings, commencing the preparations for his loath- 
 some ofiice, with cool indifference. 
 
 The two real criminals were to suffer first, all 
 three being stationed ready for punishment, in 
 a conspicuous place. The first culprit was placed 
 before an upright board, shaped like an inverted 
 cone ; in the upper or broad end of which are 
 hollowed out three notches, the middle one being 
 contrived to receive the neck of the culprit, and 
 the other two the arms, which are securely bound; 
 the legs being fastened to the bottom of the 
 
288 THE CIRCASSIAN CHIEF. 
 
 board. The upper part of the body is then 
 stripped quite bare. These preparations being 
 completed, the brutal executioner flourishes the 
 knout round his head, and with tremendous 
 force it descends on the back of the victim, 
 horribly lacerating the flesh. The handle of 
 the knout, is a thick stick eighteen inches long, 
 to the end of which is fastened a twisted thong 
 of leather, twice the length of the stick ; and to 
 the end of the thong again, there is a copper 
 ring, through which is passed, with a slip knot, 
 a double strap of leather, an inch broad near the 
 ring, and tapering to a point near the running 
 end ; the straps being boiled in milk, to swell and 
 harden them. 
 
 Poor Karl looked at this formidable weapon, 
 in the hands of the executioner, with feelings of 
 the most intense hatred ; but even the shrieks 
 of his precursors in sufl'ering, as the lash de- 
 scended on their backs, did not make him 
 waver in his constancy. He was doomed to a still 
 greater trial; for just before it became his turn 
 to suffer, he heard a voice, calling out his name, 
 proceeding apparently from a telga, which, with 
 some others, had just left the gates of the city, 
 and was quickly passing by. He turned round 
 
THE CIRCASSIAN CHIEF. 289 
 
 for an instant ; and a glance of pleasure lit up 
 his countenance, as he fancied that he recognised 
 the voice : but instantly recollecting himself, he 
 again hung down his head, and appeared to ob- 
 serve nothing around him, till the telga had 
 driven rapidly away. 
 
 At length he was also lashed up for punish- 
 ment ; but he uttered not a groan, until nature 
 almost gave way before the executioner had 
 finished his hideous work, which he seemed to 
 go through with greater zest, from the practice 
 he had already had ; as the wild beast, which has 
 once tasted human blood, feels insatiate until 
 he has gorged himself with it. Karl knew that 
 at one moment he might have saved himself the 
 torture inflicted upon him; but he willingly 
 suff^ered without a complaint — a true specimen 
 of the Russian national character, displaying 
 sturdy fidelity and passive endurance, without an 
 expectation or hope of reward. 
 
 As yet, he had not half expiated the crime 
 he was charged with, and justice still retained 
 him in her clutches. He w^as carried back to 
 prison till his wounds were healed, at which 
 period he was compelled to serve the Emperor 
 as a soldier. The constant draft, which an un- 
 
 VOL. I. O 
 
290 THE CIRCASSIAN CHIEF. 
 
 healthy climate and the Circassian sabres made 
 in the army of the Caucasus, necessitated the 
 frequent incorporation of criminals in its ranks. 
 With manacles on his hands and feet, he was 
 marched off with others, formed into large bands, 
 containing many volunteers, who were, however, 
 treated in the same way, to prevent their escap- 
 ing, lest they should change their minds, 
 
 Karl knew that it was useless to complain.; 
 and as he was of a contented and happy dis- 
 position, not much addicted to thinking, he 
 determined to make the best of his lot. For- 
 timately for themselves, his companions also 
 were blind to the hardships and miseries they 
 would probably be compelled to undergo ; 
 although thus loaded like culprits with heavy 
 chains, they passed their time in singing and 
 laughter. As they marched on, their shouts of 
 meniment rose to the skies, amid the clank of 
 their chains, as if to mock the cruelty of their 
 oppressors : the poor wretches being entirely igno- 
 rant of the blessings of freedom, and incapable 
 of feeling their degradation, perhaps even 
 incapacitated for thought ! Such are now the 
 only people in Europe who can securely be 
 governed by despotism ; and such are the sense- 
 
THE CIRCASSIAN CHIEF. 291 
 
 less tools with which the mighty Czar of Russia 
 works out his imperial will. What care they 
 how^ many freemen they bring to a like state of 
 bondage as their own ? The yoke has so long 
 pressed on their necks, that they heed not its 
 galling weight ; but like the patient oxen, they 
 are content to be goaded on to their work, at 
 their master's will. This vast, soulless engine, 
 is indeed of tremendous force ; and has but too 
 often been used to crush and overwhelm free- 
 dom, and to plant the banner of tyranny amid 
 lands, where the flag of liberty has hitherto 
 w^aved bright and unsullied. 
 
 o 2 
 
292 THE CIRCASSIAN CHIEF. 
 
 CHAPTER XVII. 
 
 Though disappointment blast our general scheme. 
 Yet much remains to hope : I shall not call 
 That day disast'rous that secures our flight; 
 Nor think that effort lost which rescues thee. 
 
 DR, JOHNSON, — IRENE. 
 
 It was towards the close of the day, when a 
 young and active peasant, who, contrary to the 
 usual character of his class, was rather intelli- 
 gent-looking, was slowly driving a small telga 
 or wagon, filled apparently with hides and 
 merchandize, at the end of a bye-way or narrow 
 lane, at a point where it joined one of the 
 principal roads leading from the south towards 
 Moscow. Observing a cloud of dust rising in 
 the distance, in a southerly direction, he drew up 
 his telga, anxious to ascertain the cause of it. 
 He presently found it to proceed from a long 
 train of wagons, about twenty in number, 
 
THE CIRCASSIAN CHIEF. 293 
 
 mostly drawn by oxen, but otbers, of the same 
 description as the vehicle he himself drove, drawn 
 by horses. The drivers of the wagons were 
 short, ugly-looking fellows, with sandy mous- 
 taches and beards, black woolly caps, sheep-skin 
 jackets, the woolly side next the skin. Many 
 of them were half asleep on the tops of their 
 vehicles, trusting to the sagacity of their beasts; 
 but it was now time to rouse themselves into 
 activity, for they were approaching the end of 
 their journey, on which perhaps they had come 
 several hundred miles. Moscow, their bourne, 
 was at hand. 
 
 The young peasant joined in the line of the 
 caravan, driving between the carts as if appa- 
 rently he belonged to their party. 
 
 Laughter and joking soon arose among the 
 easily pleased wagoners, caused by his jests 
 and stories ; and, searching, under the hides 
 which covered his cart, he produced a case of 
 vodka, and a glass, which he filled with the 
 much-prized liquor, handing it about to the 
 people nearest to him. By this means, and 
 from time to time also singing a song, he soon 
 won all their hearts ; the Russian peasants being 
 as passionately fond of music, as they are 
 addicted to vodka. 
 
294 THE CIRCASSIAN CHIEF, 
 
 " Jump up, my friend," said he to one of the 
 men trudging along-side, " you will find a better 
 seat here than in your own wagon." 
 
 The man readily complied, and the young 
 peasant began to ply him with a number of 
 questions. In this way he learned that they 
 were to remain only one day to rest their cattle, 
 and to start on the following morning for the 
 south. The information seemed to give him 
 much satisfaction ; and he intimated to his new 
 friends, that he should wish to enter the city as 
 one of their party, and to return at the same 
 time with them, reminding them that he should 
 not forget to fill his can of vodka. 
 
 The lofty towers, and polished domes of 
 Moscow now appeared in sight; and being 
 allowed to pass the gates without hindrance, the 
 caravan proceeded to the part of the city where 
 that class of people chiefly congregate: the young 
 peasant acting in every way like the rest of the 
 party. 
 
 After dark, however, giving his telga in charge 
 to one of the wagoners, whom he had more 
 particularly made his friend, he sallied forth into 
 the stiQ crowded and bustling streets, meeting 
 parties of pleasure returning from the gardens 
 in the neighbourhood. Rich nobles driving 
 
THE CIRCASSIAN CHIEF. 295 
 
 from one gay scene of dissipation to another; 
 the military returning from relieving guard ; 
 drnnken men of aU classes, reeling home, at- 
 tempting to support each other as they tottered 
 against the door-posts ; none of them, however, 
 joining in bacchanalian songs, as in England 
 and other countries ; for the Russian, though a 
 careless, light-hearted being, when sober, be- 
 comes when overpowered with liquor, a surly, 
 morose animal, with all his worst passions 
 aroused, and having no pretensions to enjoyment. 
 This is too common a scene in Russia ; but we 
 should rather pity than blame such slavish 
 beings, sunk so low in apathetic ignorance, and 
 who are never taught to respect themselves. 
 
 The peasant seemed well acquainted with the 
 city ; for without once deviating from his course, 
 he quickly threaded its intricate streets. Whatever 
 was his business, he soon performed it ; and on 
 his return, again joined the most convivial of 
 his new friends, treating them from his can of 
 vodka, and singing songs to them tiU late at 
 night. The whole of the next day was spent 
 by the carters in distributing the contents of 
 their vehicles to their different destinations, and 
 in reloading them with goods to convey to the 
 
296 THE CIRCASSIAN CHIEF. 
 
 south. The stranger peasant having likewise 
 apparently disposed of his cargo, returned with 
 a very light one, saying that he had a friend 
 with a broken limb, whom he was anxious to 
 convey to his home in the country. 
 
 In the evening, he again unloaded his cart, 
 leaving his goods under charge of his friend the 
 carter, and drove away in the direction he had 
 formerly taken ; saying, before he went, that he 
 should return with his maimed companion. He 
 drove his hght cart quickly along the streets, till 
 he reached that part of the city before men- 
 tioned, as the neighbourhood of the place in 
 which the conspii'ators held their meetings; 
 when on his giving a low whistle, a lad sprang 
 out from behind a wall, and taking the place of 
 the peasant, drove slowly on, the other hasten- 
 ing to the door of the vault, in which Ivan had 
 been so long concealed. 
 
 " Is all safe ?" he asked of the lad, who took 
 his place. " Have you seen none of the cursed 
 police in the neighbourhood ?" 
 
 " There is nothing to fear, and no one could 
 pass near here, without my seeing or hearing 
 them," answered the boy. 
 
 The peasant gave the peculiar knock at the 
 
THE CIRCASSIAN CHIEF. 297 
 
 door of the vault, which being opened by the 
 old man, he immediately entered. No one ap- 
 peared in sight, as the telga drove up to the 
 nearest spot, by which the door could be ap- 
 proached ; and without allowing it scarcely time 
 to stop, the peasant and a gipsy were seen, bear- 
 ing the body of a man, wrapped up in the folds 
 of a peasant's dress, his head bandaged so as 
 completely to conceal his features. No sooner 
 was he placed in the cart, reclining his whole 
 length at the bottom, than the young peasant, 
 again taking the reins, drove rapidly away. The 
 old man was again left to his solitude, and the 
 two gipsies hastened off in an opposite direc- 
 tion. 
 
 The peasant proceeded quickly through the 
 narrow and winding streets of the city ; once 
 or twice the police seeming inclined to stop him, 
 but as he put on a careless air, whistling and sing- 
 ing as he drove along, they did not think it 
 necessary to interrupt his progress. At length, 
 however, an officer of police, in search of some 
 of the conspirators, who had as yet escaped 
 detection, ordered him in an authoritative tone 
 to stop his telga. He instantly obeyed, un- 
 covering the face of its occupant, and displaying 
 
 o 3 
 
298 THE CIRCASSIAN CHIEF. 
 
 a profusion of red shaggy locks, and large un- 
 trimmed beard ; a cloth being bound round the 
 head of the wounded man. 
 
 The peasant's volubility and frankness, 
 seemed to convince the officer that there was 
 no cause for suspicion, and he bid the former 
 drive on, an order most promptly obeyed ; until 
 at length the peasant escaping aU further impe- 
 diments, reached the caravan party in safety. 
 
 He was warmly welcomed by his friends, who 
 were making merry over cans of their beloved 
 quass and vodka ; and having attended carefully 
 to the comforts of his charge, whom he covered 
 up in his wagon, he joined his comrades, and 
 remained with them, until they stole off to rest 
 in their carts, the young peasant roUing himself 
 up beneath the shelter of his own telga. 
 
 The next morning they were all astir ; but it 
 was some time before they were ready to begin 
 their journey towards the south. The wounded 
 man was able to sit up among the merchandize, 
 with which the telga of the peasant was now 
 loaded, the owner walking by its side ; and as 
 they passed the gates of the city, he had a joke 
 for each of the guards, who after looking into 
 each vehicle, allowed the caravan to pass on. 
 
THE CIRCASSIAN CHIEF. 299 
 
 At a short distance, outside the gates of the 
 city, they observed a concourse of people as- 
 sembled, when the wounded man inquired the 
 cause of the crowd. " It is only because a few 
 people are going to be knouted," answered one 
 of the drivers, taking it as a thing of course. 
 
 As they passed close to the place of execu- 
 tion, the wounded man observed one of the 
 unfortunate culprits standing in a conspicuous 
 situation, just about to receive punishment. He 
 uttered an exclamation, and seemed as if he 
 would rush forward to the rescue of the criminal; 
 but his weakness reminded him of his incapability 
 even to walk, as with a look of indignant regret, 
 he sank back on his seat. The young peasant, 
 observing the movement, leaped quickly into 
 the telga, urging on his horse at a faster speed. 
 
 " Hist, Sir ! hist ! Would you spoil all, by 
 want of caution ?" he said, " nothing can save 
 the poor fellow, and I know he would rather die 
 than bring you into danger. The knowledge 
 that you are safe will fully repay him." 
 
 The caravan had now proceeded on some 
 way, clouds of dust obscuring the hateful scene 
 from their eyes, and perchance, even among that 
 servile band of drovers, many a breast might 
 
300 THE CIRCASSIAN CHIEF. 
 
 have heaved, indignant at the cruelty they had 
 witnessed ; for to their sorrow they knew, that 
 the innocent too often suffered punishment, due 
 alone to the guilty, yet none of them dared to 
 utter their thoughts, even to their comrades. 
 It was some time before the young peasant 
 could resume his gaiety, as he returned to his 
 post by the side of his telga ; however, he at 
 length began to talk and laugh as before, his 
 light-hearted companions quickly dismissing all 
 recollection of the scene they had witnessed. 
 
 Some versts further on, after charging his com- 
 rades not to mention his having been with them, 
 and receiving their cordial farewell, he drove away 
 rapidly along the bye road which there presented 
 itself. 
 
 He was long remembered by that kind-hearted 
 and simple race, in whose breasts enmity retains 
 a slighter hold than gratitude and affection. 
 
 The caravan had proceeded for about the 
 space of an hour, along the road, when an alarm 
 was given, that a party of mounted police were 
 galloping after them. The emissaries of justice 
 were soon among the wagoners, calling loudly 
 to them to stop, striking at them with their 
 thick whips, and demanding a culprit, who had 
 
THE CIRCASSIAN CHIEF. 301 
 
 escaped their vigilance. Though the sturdy 
 carters could easily have overpowered their 
 brutal assailants, not one attempted to make 
 any resistance; but the young peasant reaped 
 the reward of his address and wit, in conciliating 
 them, for they one and aU denied any knowledge 
 of the person described, nor could additional 
 blows gain any further information from them. 
 The police, after bestowing a few parting stripes, 
 returned the way they came ; many a muttered 
 curse followed them, the honest carters rejoicing 
 that their friend had escaped, and piously cross- 
 ing themselves, offered up many a hearty prayer 
 for his ultimate escape. 
 
 The peasant drove on, tiU he caught sight of 
 the Gipsy encampment of our former friends, 
 between whose tented walls he forthwith en- 
 tered, and was received with a shout of congra- 
 tulation by its swarthy inhabitants. The Zingani 
 chief went forward to welcome the new comers ; 
 a cry of pleasure escaping Azila, who timidly 
 followed her father, as the wounded man was 
 lifted from his conveyance; and he with the 
 seeming peasant, throwing off their disguises, 
 discovered to their assembled friends, Ivan and 
 the young Gipsy Javis. 
 
302 THE CIRCASSIAN CHIEF. 
 
 The chief warmly welcomed Ivan, and con- 
 gratulated Javis on the successful commencement 
 of his undertaking, to which Azila added her 
 own thanks. Ivan was then conducted to the 
 principal tent, where the old crone Hagar, took 
 the wounded man again under her surgical care, 
 and from the effects of her healing remedies, he 
 soon experienced relief 
 
 The chief took a seat by his side. " My 
 daughter," said he, " could not venture again 
 into the city, to aid yoiu* escape as she wished, 
 having as we have reason to know, been already 
 suspected by the police of being concerned in 
 the late conspiracy ; and as you weU know, sus- 
 picion is sufficient to condemn a person in this 
 country, of a political crime." 
 
 " I trust, my friend, to be soon able to relieve 
 you from the danger you run in sheltering me," 
 said Ivan. 
 
 " Not until you are siifficiently recovered to 
 undertake the journey, will we allow you to 
 depart," answered the Gipsy, " and then I have 
 hopes, that by the talents and ingenuity of Javis, 
 you wiU entirely escape from the power of your 
 enemies." 
 
 While this conversation was going forward, 
 
THE CIRCASSIAN CHIEF. 303 
 
 a man who had been sent out as a scout, hasten- 
 ed into the tent, to say that he had seen a party 
 of the police, galloping on the high road towards 
 the south, in the direction the caravan had taken 
 which Javis had just left. 
 
 " Ah !" said the chief, " you have had a nar- 
 row escape. Sir, but I have my hopes that the 
 police will lose their scent, and I trust that we 
 are not yet suspected. We will, however, move 
 our camp as quickly as possible towards the 
 south, where we may be more secure from their 
 interference." 
 
304 THE CIRCASSIAN CHIEF. 
 
 CHAPTER XVIIL 
 
 But still th' insensate wretch pursues his hate 
 Nor curbs the rage that hurries on his fate; 
 While the dire demon all his soul possessed, 
 Rav'd from his hps, and madden'd in his breast. 
 
 TASSO. 
 
 We must now refer back for a short period, 
 to the morning on which the Count Erintoff 
 learned, from public rumour, that a dreadful 
 murder had been committed, on some one who 
 could not be recognized, owing to the mangled 
 state of his features, and to the absence of any 
 papers or valuables upon the body by which it 
 could be known. 
 
 The Count congratulated himself that he had 
 at length got rid of one, whom he most deeply 
 hated ; looking upon him as his rival in Azila's 
 love ; and he now therefore anticipated an easy 
 conquest of the beautiful Gipsy girl. He was 
 
THE CIRCASSIAN CHIEF. 305 
 
 however, not aware that she had been made 
 fully acquainted, not only with his views to- 
 wards herself, but with his intention of causing 
 Ivan's assassination. 
 
 It will be remembered that there were two 
 Gipsy boys, whom Groif had kept in the palace 
 for the purpose of enticing Azila thither; these lads 
 were, by the Count's orders, afterwards allowed to 
 remain, in the hope of again attracting her there. 
 None of their tribe, however, seemed to take 
 any notice of them ; the wounded boy remain- 
 ing in bed, and the other who appeared to 
 be dull and heavy was suffered to wander 
 about the house, at will. The Count little 
 thinking at the time, that he was an active, 
 intelligent spy, whom Azila, profiting by the 
 accident which had introduced them to the 
 palace, had purposely left there to discover and 
 report all the Count's movements. 
 
 The Count being convinced of Ivan's death, 
 when GrofF presented himself to claim the wages 
 of blood, gladly paid the money, and then be- 
 thought himself of some plan, to make the 
 most advantageous use of the papers he had 
 become possessed of. They clearly proved the 
 existence of some conspiracy, but of what nature 
 
306 THE CIRCASSIAN CHIEF. 
 
 or extent he could not tell ; and he began to 
 consider whether or no, he had not better make 
 further discoveries, before he communicated it to 
 the government. He ordered Groif, therefore, 
 to watch the neighbourhood of the place, to 
 learn if others assembled there ; an office the 
 wretch was very unwilling to perform ; a hon'or 
 seizing him as he approached the spot, where 
 he had committed the murder, and diiving him 
 away, so that he brought back word to his 
 master that he had seen no one. 
 
 The Count's rage and disappointment was 
 excessive, when on the morning of Ivan's return 
 to Moscow, he heard, by chance, that it was sus- 
 pected the Count Flatoff was the person mur- 
 dered, and on making particular inquiiies 
 at Ivan's hotel, he was informed that on the 
 night of the murder, he suddenly departed for 
 the country. This, it will be remembered, was 
 the very time when he was summoned to attend 
 the death-bed of his mother, owing to which he 
 escaped the fate intended for him. 
 
 He therefore stationed Groff to watch for his 
 return, to bring him instant information, deter- 
 mining this time to glut his vengeance with his 
 own hands. Groff had not long to wait before 
 
THE CIRCASSIAN CHIEF. 307 
 
 Ivan returned, when he hastened with the in- 
 telligence to his master. 
 
 The Count ordered him to arm himself with 
 a sword, and to return to watch Ivan's move- 
 ments, in case he should visit the place of meet- 
 ing; then taking Kruntz with him, also well 
 armed, he himself repaired to the neighbourhood. 
 He then informed the chief officer of police, that 
 he suspected some plot was on foot, desiring 
 that some of the subordinates might accompany 
 him, in case his suspicions proved correct. His 
 plan was, to attack Ivan under the pretext of 
 arresting him, and to kill him when he at- 
 tempted to defend himself, as he had no doubt 
 he would do. This purpose, he communicated 
 to his two worthy followers, but it was fortu- 
 nately overheard by the young Gipsy spy, who had 
 concealed himself in the apartment, and as soon 
 as the lad was able to make his escape, he com- 
 municated the information to Azila, who was 
 waiting for him. 
 
 The Count's arrangements occupied some 
 time, so that Ivan had left the place of meeting 
 before the police had arrived, and the Count 
 was but just in time to encounter him. His 
 fury and disappointment were doubly increased 
 
308 THE CIRCASSIAN CHIEF. 
 
 at finding himself again foiled in his purpose ; 
 his only satisfaction being in the death of Groif, 
 who was in possession of some rather dangerous 
 secrets. How much greater was his rage, when 
 on returning with the police, he found that his 
 prey had escaped him altogether. He eagerly 
 joined in the search, urging on the police to 
 their work, but to no purpose, until baffled and 
 enraged, he returned to his palace, resolving not 
 to rest until he had discovered his rival, and 
 obtained possession of Azila. In order to ac- 
 complish the first of these objects, he instituted 
 inquiries in every direction, sending out spies 
 with promises of rewards, if they should discover 
 the traitor, he himself again joining in the search. 
 On inquiring for the Gipsy boys, in order to 
 ascertain where Azila was to be found, he 
 learned that they had both escaped, no one 
 could tell how or when. Of Azila, he could not 
 hear anything, as she had not again appeared in 
 the city. 
 
 At all points, he seemed doomed to be 
 disappointed in his vile purposes, when early 
 one day, he heard that a telga had been seen 
 on the previous evening, coming from the 
 direction of the place where the conspirators 
 
THE CIRCASSIAN CHIEF. 309 
 
 had held their meetings ; and taking the hint, 
 he repaired thither with some of the police. 
 They went directly to the vault of the old 
 man, who had been previously suspected. The 
 wretched inmate was dragged from his abode, 
 and on refrising to answer the questions put 
 to him, which might betray his late guest, he 
 was sentenced to receive the punishment of 
 the knout. The sentence was carried into 
 execution. The old man sunk under it ; he 
 died unknown, and unmourned. 
 
 The police, however, traced the telga to 
 the place where Javis had passed the night, 
 and finding that a caravan had set out that 
 morning, some of their mounted comrades were 
 sent in pursuit. As we have before stated, they 
 arrived after Javis had driven away, and were 
 again at fault, not knowing what course to pur- 
 sue; for they were now persuaded that they 
 had been led on a wrong scent. 
 
 Count Erintoif at length almost despaired 
 of wreaking his vengeance on Ivan, until, in 
 his inqioiries for Azila, he learned that she had 
 been implicated in the conspiracy, and it then 
 occurred to him, that she might have been 
 the companion of his flight. He learned also. 
 
310 THE CIRCASSIAN CHIEF. 
 
 that the very tribe of gipsies, to which he knew 
 Azila belonged, had lately been in the neigh- 
 bourhood of Moscow, though the police were 
 not aware of the fact, and that they had moved 
 towards the south soon after the conspiracy 
 had been discovered. Connecting all these 
 circumstances together, his hopes of gaining 
 possession of Azila, and of punishing his enemy, 
 were again raised. On his giving, therefore, 
 the information he had gained to the police, 
 a party of that force was ordered to attend 
 him. He now felt certain that they could no 
 longer escape ; indulging his mind with the 
 thoughts of vengeance, and the success of his 
 passion. He easily traced the route the Gipsies 
 had taken, following up each of their day's 
 journeys, which he was enabled to accomplish 
 in a much shorter time than they had done. 
 With savage dehght at his expected triumph, 
 he caught sight of the tents of the Gipsy 
 encampment ; when ordering some of the police 
 to watch well that none escaped, he with the 
 rest, confiding in the power and terror of the 
 legal authority they possessed, rushed into the 
 centre of the encampment. The gipsies ap- 
 peared to be completely taken by surprise, the 
 
THE CIRCASSIAN CHIEF. 311 
 
 women crowding together in alarm, and the 
 men starting on their feet, and advancing to 
 meet the intruders. 
 
 The chief came out of his tent, as if just 
 aroused from sleep. 
 
 " On what account," he demanded, " is the 
 quiet and order of my camp thus suddenly 
 broken into by the police ? Who is it you 
 seek here?" 
 
 " The traitor Ivan Galetzoff, and a Gipsy 
 female called Azila," said the Count ; " and if 
 they are not delivered into our hands, you 
 shall suffer." 
 
 " Ah !" exclaimed the chief, starting and 
 eyeing the Count narrowly, " I have no one 
 here among my people, of that name." 
 
 " You refuse then to deliver up those we are 
 in search of," said the Count. " Examine the 
 tents," he exclaimed to his followers ; who 
 immediately commenced pulling them down, 
 strewing the contents in all directions on the 
 ground. The Gipsies looked on at the work 
 of destruction with sullen indifference ; neither 
 interfering, or offering any resistance to prevent 
 the injmy committed; for the police wantonly 
 cut the ropes of the tents, broke open the chests, 
 
312 THE CIRCASSIAN CHIEF. 
 
 turned the animals adrift, as they examined the 
 vehicles; so that in a few minutes from the 
 time they entered the encampment, where the 
 quiet circle of tents then stood, there was now 
 a scene of confusion and disorder. Yet it was 
 of no effect, for their intended prisoners could 
 no where be found. 
 
 " You have set at defiance the Emperor's 
 authority," said the Count, addressing the 
 Zingani chief, " and must take the consequences. 
 I arrest you in the name of the Czar." 
 
 " What, has the noble Count Erintoff turned 
 police officer, as well as assassin?" exclaimed 
 the chief. " I fear you not. Count. Either let 
 me go free, or take the consequences. The 
 murderer of the Count Flatoff is known," he 
 added, stepping closer up to him. " I well 
 know your motives. Count ; but will not in- 
 terfere, while you attempt not to injure me 
 or mine. I am your prisoner if you wish." 
 
 The Count turned pale with rage and fear. 
 He felt that he was entirely in the power of 
 the bold Gipsy, should he not succeed in de- 
 stroying him at once, and that he could not 
 hope to do in the midst of his people, when 
 no resistance was offered. The only alternative 
 
THE CIRCASSIAN CHIEF. 313 
 
 was to make him his friend, for he saw that 
 terror was not likely to influence him. The 
 Count, therefore, pretended to be satisfied that 
 the people he sought were not among the 
 Gipsies; hoping, by throwing them oif their 
 guard, to pounce upon them when unprepared, 
 and intending to take the first opportunity of 
 crushino: one who had a secret of such im- 
 portance to him in his possession. He feared 
 too, that the accusation would lead to further 
 inquiries as to the means by which he became 
 possessed of the papers, and how he gained his 
 information of the conspiracy, for he knew 
 there were already some causes of suspicion 
 existing against him. Secretly vowing ven- 
 geance therefore, he ordered the police to re- 
 mount, and accompany him in a further search 
 he meditated making, being convinced that 
 the fugitives were at no great distance. 
 
 The Gipsies saw their enemies depart, with 
 bitter feelings of vengeance towards them, as 
 they set about repairing the wanton damage 
 they had sustained, while the latter rode on 
 their way ; the Count being resolved to accuse 
 the Gipsy of ha\dng, like his daughter, given 
 his assistance to the late conspiracy, hoping 
 
 VOL. I. P 
 
314 THE CIRCASSIAN CHIEF. 
 
 thus to crush him, without danger to himself, 
 knowing that the first accusation has always 
 the greatest weight. How he succeeded will 
 he seen hereafter. 
 
 The Count did not gain the reward he ex- 
 pected for the discovery of the conspiracy; it 
 heing strongly suspected, that he would have 
 kept it concealed completely, had he not been 
 instigated by some motive advantageous to him- 
 self. Instead therefore of recei\dng some lucra- 
 tive office, or of being raised to a higher dignity 
 in rank, the Emperor fully appreciated his mo- 
 tives, and giving him the credit of believing that 
 if it had been to his interest, he would have 
 joined the conspiracy without scruple, appointed 
 him to the command of a regiment in the army of 
 the Caucasus, hoping thus to get rid of a trouble- 
 some and suspected subject. As the Count had a 
 short time before reached the rank of Colonel ; 
 this order could not appear singular; and al- 
 though he well understood the reasons of his ap- 
 pointment, he had no alternative but to obey. 
 
 The regiment which the Count Erintoff com- 
 manded, was one of those forming a brigade 
 under the orders of the Baron Galetzoff, destined 
 for the army of the Caucasus, now marching 
 
THE CIRCASSIAN CHIEF. 315 
 
 towards the south, to embark for the opposite 
 coast. Levies had been raised in all directions, 
 the recruits as soon as collected being marched 
 off to the depots in the south, to join an army 
 with which the Emperor had determined to 
 overwhelm and crush his mountain opponents 
 of Circassia; and no one exulted more in the 
 prospect of carrjdng fire and sword into the 
 country of his detested enemies, than the Baron 
 Galetzoff, as he reviewed his well equipped 
 though mostly newly raised troops. 
 
 Under his standard were collected the short 
 hardy natives of the north, Cossacks from the 
 banks of the Don, and Volga ; regiments of en- 
 slaved Poles, now fighting by the side of their 
 conquerors ; some few cavalry, whom the Rus- 
 sians called Circassians, but who were, in truth, 
 men collected from the confines of the Caucasus ; 
 Georgians, Immeritians, Mingrelians ; but not 
 one who could boast of true Circassian descent. 
 
 With these troops was also the regiment to 
 which Thaddeus Stanisloff was attached, he 
 being obliged to leave Moscow ignorant of the 
 fate of his friend ; and many a long day passed, 
 v\dthout his receiving any tidings of him. Ab- 
 sence did not however diminish his friendship, 
 
 P 2 
 
316 THE CIRCASSIAN CHIEF. 
 
 or his regret at their separation. Though under 
 the orders of the Baron Galetzoff, it was long 
 before he came in contact with him ; he heard 
 it reported, that there was no one so bitter 
 against the defection of his supposed son, or 
 more eager in endeavouring to apprehend him, 
 vowing that he should be punished as a traitor 
 and renegade, if he fell into his power. 
 
THE CIRCASSIAN CHIEF. 317 
 
 CHAPTER XIX. 
 
 A huge great beast it was, when it in length 
 Was stretched forth, that nigh fill'd all the place 
 And seem'd to be of infinite great strength ; 
 Horrible, hideous and of hellish race. 
 To many a one, which came into her school 
 Him did she put to death, deceived Hke a fool. 
 
 SUPERSTITION SPENCEr's FAIRY QUEEN. 
 
 It was now the beautiful, balmy, and genial 
 month of a Russian June, all nature rejoicing, 
 clothed in one entire bright livery of green, 
 fresh from the new bursting buds, yet unseared 
 by the burning heats of summer, like the beau- 
 teous maiden just ripened into perfect woman- 
 hood, surrounded with a halo of freshness and 
 purity, ere the blasts and scorching atmosphere 
 of the cruel world have had time to obscure the 
 one or sully the other. 
 
 A few days had been passed by Ivan in the 
 Gipsy camp, with but slow progress ; each day, 
 however, contributing to his strength. At length 
 
318 THE CIRCASSIAN CHIEF. 
 
 he declared himself sufficiently recovered to un- 
 dertake the more difficult and dangerous part of 
 his journey on foot ; so eagerly burning was 
 he with the desire of reaching the place of his 
 destination, to fulfil the vow he had taken at the 
 death-bed of his mother. 
 
 Azila had been his constant attendant, en- 
 livening him with her conversation, and soothing 
 him with her attentions ; but so completely were 
 his thoughts occupied with the events w^hich 
 had occurred, and especially with those to which 
 he was looking forward, that no other senti- 
 ment entered his heart. That lovely being, day by 
 day, sat by his side, watching anxiously each look, 
 listening eagerly to each word he uttered, yet he 
 loved not. He felt sincere gratitude to her as 
 the preserver of his life, he would have again 
 risked his own to aid her ; but no other feeling 
 excited his bosom. And she — so proud, so 
 indifferent as she had shewn herself to be, to- 
 wards the Count Erintoff, could she give her love 
 to one from whom she could scarce hope for a 
 return. The hearts of women are uncertain, 
 incomprehensible, inscrutable, and we will not 
 venture to pronounce by what special agency 
 Azila's was influenced. 
 
 Ivan was much indebted to old Hagar for his 
 
THE CIRCASSIAN CHIEF. 319 
 
 rapid recovery, though it was some time before 
 she would give her consent to his eager wish to 
 quit her care. 
 
 On the last day's journey, as he was riding 
 among the Gipsies, dressed in the costume of 
 the rest of the party, the chief unfolded the plan 
 he had formed to enable him to make his fur- 
 ther escape from the empire. 
 
 " At this time of the year," said the Zingani 
 chief, " thousands of pilgrims flock from all 
 parts of the empire, to what they superstitiously 
 call their holy city of Chioff, and I propose that 
 you should first repair thither with Javis, who 
 is intimately acquainted with every part of the 
 country, as your guide, both of you disguised as 
 peasants performing the pilgrimage, for which I 
 have provided every thing necessary. Should 
 you, by any chance, be again followed, among the 
 vast crowds who are now assembling at Chioff, 
 you will find more facilities for preventing all 
 clue of your route being discovered. After you 
 have passed through the city, you and your 
 guide may assume the character of pilgrims, 
 returning from thence, towards their habitations 
 on the confines of the country. I have sent 
 forward a messenger to some friends of our 
 
320 THE CIRCASSIAN CHIEF. 
 
 people, who are now near the place where you 
 w^iU find the least danger in crossing the fron- 
 tiers into Moldavia, to which Javis will lead you ; 
 and our people there, will afford you assistance 
 should you require it. I must now ride forward 
 to select a spot for our encampment ; I wish to 
 keep as much as possible concealed from all 
 passers by, for we know not who may prove an 
 enemy among them." Saying which, the Gipsy 
 chief rode on. 
 
 We must observe that the Zingani party had 
 been travelling as much as practicable across the 
 country, keeping all the bye roads and lanes, 
 and avoiding all communications with the vil- 
 lages, near which they were at times obliged to 
 pass. 
 
 As they joiu-neyed on, Ivan rode up to the 
 side of Azila, for the maiden seemed sad and 
 dispirited. After some other conversation, 
 
 " You go. Sir," said she, " amid scenes of 
 excitement and of wild strife, where all your 
 thoughts and hopes are centered, and where you 
 will soon forget those you leave behind, those 
 who would have died to serve you ; but believe 
 me, there is one who will never forget your aid, 
 nor your bravery in her defence ; who — " 
 
THE CIRCASSIAN CHIEF. 321 
 
 " Neither can I ever forget one to whom I owe 
 my life and liberty," he exclaimed ; " nay, much 
 more : who will have enabled me to fulfil, I hope, 
 a deep sworn vow, the accomplishment of which 
 I have so rashly hazarded." 
 
 Their conversation was here interrupted by the 
 return of the Zingani chief, who rode to Ivan's side. 
 
 Early the following day, Ivan and his guide 
 sallied from a tent, so completely changed in ap- 
 pearance, that no one could possibly have recog- 
 nized in the two old peasants, they now seemed 
 to be, the dark featured, handsome young men 
 they really were. Their very skin had been 
 tinged of a reddish hue, with wrinkles on their 
 brows and cheeks ; while red shaggy locks 
 sprinkled with white, covered their own dark 
 hair, and long full beards of the same colour fell 
 over their breasts to the waist, large low hats 
 still more concealing their countenances. They 
 wore long dark coloured gowns, and sheep-skin 
 coats : rough boots of untanned leather protected 
 their feet, and by their side hung wallets to 
 contain their food. In their hands they bore 
 thick sticks, ostensibly to support their tottering 
 steps, but really to serve as a means of defence, 
 in case of necessity. 
 
 P 3 
 
322 THE CIRCASSIAN CHIEF. 
 
 Thus equipped, when ready to depart, the 
 Zingani chief embraced them both, bestowing on 
 them the peculiar blessings of his people, and 
 charging Ja^ds with many injunctions for the 
 guidance of his conduct on their journey. The 
 whole tribe assembled to bid them farewell, the 
 old crone Hagar calling down curses on all who 
 should impede them in their progress, and 
 blessings on the heads of all who favoured 
 them. 
 
 Azila alone was no where to be seen ; and 
 feelings which Ivan could scarcely acknowledge, 
 even to himself, prevented him from asking for 
 her, till the last moment. The chief, on missing 
 Azila, sent in all dii-ections to discover her, his 
 alarm becoming considerable when she was not 
 to be found. The travellers delayed their de- 
 parture, in the hopes of gaining intelligence of 
 her before they went ; for fears began to be 
 entertained, that by some means or other she 
 had been entrapped either by the Count Erin- 
 toff or by the police, who might have feared to 
 seize her by open force, among so large a band 
 of defenders. 
 
 While the whole camp was thus thrown into 
 a state of alarm, one of the scouts, who w^ere at 
 all times kept on the watch, to give timely 
 
THE CIRCASSIAN CHIEF. 323 
 
 Motice in case they might be pursued, came 
 running hastily among them, to say that he 
 had descried, at a distance, a party whom he 
 took to be police, riding rapidly towards the 
 camp. Without a moment's delay, Javis seized 
 Ivan's hand, hurrying him away at perhaps a 
 faster rate, than their apparent age would have 
 warranted ; but they were only just in time to 
 escape, for before they lost sight of the encamp- 
 ment, they perceived the police ride into it. 
 The delay which there occurred, as we have 
 already seen, enabled them to make good their 
 distance, though they were in momentary expec- 
 tation of being pursued : no signs, however, of 
 their enemies appearing, they continued their 
 journey at a more moderate speed. 
 
 On the second day, as they were about to 
 repose by the road side, the heat of the sun be- 
 coming oppressive, they heard the clattering of 
 horses' hoofs behind them, and perceived, on 
 turning their heads, a party of the police gallop- 
 ing along the road, before they had time to 
 attempt concealing themselves. Javis, however, 
 with perfect presence of mind, begged Ivan to 
 imitate his style of walldng, when the police 
 coming up, merely cast a glance at them, and 
 
324 THE CIRCASSIAN CHIEF. 
 
 rode on ; but the travellers saw them stop at 
 a short distance ahead, to interrogate a young 
 peasant lad, whom they had just before observed. 
 The lad appeared in no way disconcerted, point- 
 ing in answer to their questions, to a road across 
 the country, which they followed at the same 
 rapid speed. 
 
 Quickening their own pace, they soon over- 
 took the boy, who saluted them as they passed, 
 in respect for their seeming age. They did not 
 think it prudent to rest, until the evening was 
 far advanced, when Javis led Ivan to a hut, with 
 the inhabitants of which he exchanged a few 
 words, and was instantly admitted. 
 
 *It is not necessary to give here a detail of 
 each day's journey, their adventures possessing 
 but little interest, merely observing, that on 
 some nights they rested in the cottages of the 
 peasants, and at other times they found shelter 
 beneath the shade of the thick leaved trees, or 
 reposed during the heat of the day, and tra- 
 velled at night while the moon shone brightly. 
 Several times, Ivan felt almost confident, that 
 he had caught sight of the same peasant lad 
 they had passed on their second day's journey, 
 who seemed to be dogging their steps ; but Javis 
 
THE CIRCASSIAN CHIEF. 325 
 
 declared that he had not seen him, so that he 
 conchided he must have again been mistaken. 
 Ivan had now perfectly recovered not only his 
 strength, but his spirits, for trusting that his 
 hopes might be realized of reaching the land of 
 his birth, where all his thoughts and aspirations 
 centered, he felt that nothing could press him 
 down, or prevent him from accomplishing his 
 much desired object. 
 
 One day, towards the evening, a violent storm 
 overtook them, obliging them to stop at a 
 wi'etched hostelry on the road side, the only 
 house of public entertainment to be found for a 
 considerable distance. The fierceness of the 
 tempest made it impossible for them to proceed; 
 in spite therefore, of the slight danger they per- 
 haps ran in entering a house where a spy might 
 already be, they agreed to remain there, till a 
 clear sky should again allow them to prosecute 
 their journey. 
 
 While they were seated at the wretched repast 
 the house was able alone to afford, in an apart- 
 ment serving the purpose of kitchen and re- 
 ceiving room for the guests, for whose accom- 
 modation tables and benches were placed at one 
 end of it, a boy entered, who started at seeing 
 
326 THE CIRCASSIAN CHIEF. 
 
 them, tui'ning back as if he would retreat, when 
 Ivan recognised in him the lad whom he had 
 suspected of following their steps. He entered 
 the house, throwing himself on a bench near the 
 fire, and while he endeavoured to diy his wet 
 garments, he seemed lost in a reverie, gazing at 
 the burning embers on the hearth, speaking to 
 no one, nor tui'ning his head to look at the other 
 guests. 
 
 Ivan at length taking compassion on the 
 youth's disconsolate manner, forgetful of his 
 suspicions about him, in his assumed character 
 of an old man, approached to invite him to 
 share their humble fare. 
 
 The boy started as Ivan spoke, a blush 
 mantling on his cheek, and he hesitated to 
 accept the proffered offer, tiU Javis came to add 
 his persuasions. At length, he yielded and took 
 his seat at their table, when Ivan asked him, if 
 he had not before seen him on the road. The 
 boy acknowledged that they had passed him. 
 
 " Are you then going to Chioff, boy, to 
 worship at the shrines of the holy saints ?" asked 
 Ivan. 
 
 " Yes, I go thither for that purpose," an- 
 swered the boy. 
 
THE CIRCASSIAN CHIEF. 32? 
 
 " You are but a youthful pilgrim to attempt 
 so long a journey alone and unprotected," said 
 Ivan. " It surprises me that your parents put 
 you not under the care of older people travelling 
 the same road, who might have guarded your 
 youth from the dangers your inexperience may 
 lead you into. Had you no friends from your 
 neighbourhood, making the pilgrimage ?" 
 
 " Alas, I have no parents who are able to 
 protect me, and few friends who love me ; but 
 for protection I need it not, I can protect my- 
 self." \ 
 
 " Do not say that you have no friends, boy," 
 interrupted Javis, " when perchance, there are 
 some, who most likely, would be ready to shield 
 you from the slightest harm." 
 
 The boy answered not, but hung down his 
 head, nor did he venture to look towards Ivan, 
 while he was speaking. 
 
 Ivan, in compassion for the boy's timidity, 
 spoke to him a few kind words of encourage- 
 ment, when Javis addressed him. " You are 
 travelling the same road we go, boy, and may, 
 perchance, require protection. You shall, if you 
 wish, accompany us, and you shall have aU that 
 two old men can bestow. Will you accept our 
 offer?" 
 
328 THE CIRCASSIAN CHIEF. 
 
 The boy again seemed to hesitate, until Ivan 
 pressed him to accept their protection, when he 
 gladly assented. " You seem, poor boy, weighed 
 down by some secret sorrow ; tell it to us, that 
 we may, if possible, afford you aU the consolation 
 in our power." 
 
 " Not for worlds," answered the boy, sadly ; 
 " it would but increase my sorrow to name it, 
 nor w^ould you have power to heal it." 
 
 " But tell me, boy," said Ivan, " by what 
 name shall we call you ?" 
 
 The boy hesitated for a moment, before he 
 spoke. " They call me, Conrin, Sir." 
 
 " Forsooth, boy, the name is a pretty one," 
 said Ivan, " and Conrin will we caU you. You 
 seem fatigued and weary ; and now that you 
 have satisfied your hunger, lie down and rest, 
 for you have yet many a weary mile to travel, 
 ere you can reach the shrines of the holy 
 saints." 
 
 The boy indeed seemed unwilling to enter 
 into conversation, listening however with earnest 
 attention to the words which fell from the seem- 
 ing old men's lips, and as they ceased speaking, 
 he retired to a corner of the room, where throw- 
 ing himself on a bench, and wrapping his cloak 
 close around him, he placed his head on a bundle 
 
THE CIRCASSIAN CHIEF. 329 
 
 he carried, and composed himself to sleep. The 
 poor boy was evidently weary, and unaccustomed 
 to the fatigues he had undergone on his journey, 
 and though dressed as a common peasant, there 
 was much greater neatness and care displayed 
 than usual, the cloak also being a luxury few of 
 his class possessed. 
 
 The storm continued raging furiously as 
 before, and as there were no beds in the house, 
 nor any thing like such a comfort, the two tra- 
 vellers were fain to repose as best they might, 
 on the hard benches placed against the wall. 
 
 On the next morning by break of day, their new 
 companion was already on foot, prepared to start, 
 when the storm having passed away, the whole 
 party set forward on their journey. They had not 
 proceeded many miles, when Javis informed his 
 companions, that there was a cottage in the 
 neighbourhood, from whence he could procure a 
 conveyance to carry them on at a faster rate ; 
 and begging them to rest for a while, he went 
 in search of it, and soon returned, driving a 
 small vehicle capable of containing aU the three. 
 In this carriage they travelled till the end of the 
 next day, when Javis again found a fresh horse, 
 so that by thus frequently changing both horse 
 
330 THE CIRCASSIAN CHIEF. 
 
 and carriage, in a few days they reached the 
 neighbourhood of their destination. 
 
 A distance now remained, which would take 
 them two days to perform on foot, it being 
 necessary to travel thus in their assumed cha- 
 racters of pilgrims, for abeady had they over- 
 taken large crowds, all hastening to the same 
 destination. 
 
 The pilgrims travelled in bands of one or two 
 hundi'ed, of both sexes, and of all ages ; the 
 hoary headed grandsire and the athletic youth, 
 aged women and laughing maidens, the old 
 supporting their weary limbs on their staves, 
 while by their side ran young children of all 
 ages. The troop headed by a white bearded 
 monk, leaning on a long staff, clothed in sack- 
 cloth and bare-footed, chaunting forth songs of 
 encouragement to the weary, and praise to 
 heaven. 
 
 Thousands were at that moment on their 
 way, to ^dsit the catacombs of Chioif, from every 
 part of the immense Empire of Russia ; from 
 the bleak and freezing Kamstchatka, from the 
 vast and far distant regions of Siberia, from the 
 confines of Tartary, and from the scattered pro- 
 vinces of the south ; performing with unabated 
 
THE CIRCASSIAN CHIEF. 331 
 
 perseverance the whole distance on foot, seldom 
 sleeping under a roof, and living on the preca- 
 rious charity of the miserable peasants on their 
 road. Our friends therefore joined one of the 
 numerous companies, uninvited, yet cheerfully 
 welcomed. 
 
 All day the band travelled on, assembling at 
 night in a grove of a few lofty wide-spreading 
 trees near the road-side, through which the pale 
 moon shone brightly on the heads of the nume- 
 rous groups, here and there seen amid the 
 darker shades. A fire was lighted to cook their 
 scanty meal, after partaking of which, they 
 assembled reverentially round an aged monk ; 
 w^ho arose, commencing a slow and solemn 
 chaunt, in which by degrees, the whole con- 
 course joined. Far off, amid the silence of the 
 night, were heard the hymns of adoration of 
 those simple people, and for many hours of the 
 night, did those songs of praise continue, ere 
 throwing themselves on the bare ground, 
 their bed, the heavens their only covering, 
 they composed themselves to sleep. 
 
 The boy found shelter close to the trees, amid 
 some groups, apparently of about his own age, 
 the bright moonbeams streaming like rays of 
 
332 THE CIRCASSIAN CHIEF. 
 
 glory on the youthful heads of the sleeping pil- 
 grims. 
 
 The road they had been hitherto travelling, 
 had led over the flat and uninteresting steppe. 
 The country, however, as they approached Chioff 
 or Kiov, as it is also called, now became slightly 
 undulating ; but it was not until towards the 
 evening, that they came in sight' of the Holy 
 City. 
 
 As that unique and strikingly beautiful city 
 first struck their view, standing in a command- 
 ing position, on a hill, the golden cupolas and 
 domes, with which it is crowned, reflecting the 
 rays of the sun with dazzling brightness, the 
 pilgrims simultaneously raised a hymn of joy 
 and praise. Every one of the vast crowd kneel- 
 ing down, devoutly crossed himself, rending the 
 air with songs of thanksgiving. After some 
 minutes spent in prayer, again they all arose, 
 and headed by the reverend monk, they des- 
 cended the hiU, to cross by a bridge the river 
 Dnieper, whose waters wash the walls of the city. 
 Some, in eager haste, without stopping to rest 
 their weary limbs, rushed towards the Cathedral 
 of the Ascension, or the Church of the Cata- 
 combs, which stands a Httle removed from the 
 
THE CIRCASSIAN CHIEF. 333 
 
 city on the banks of the Dnieper. Others, 
 among whom were Ivan and his companions, 
 sought rest and food, ere on the next morning, 
 they should commence paying their adorations 
 at the numerous shrines, they had vowed to 
 visit. So well had Ivan and Javis sustained 
 their characters, that not one of the credulous 
 people, among whom they had freely mixed, 
 suspected that they were otherwise than as what 
 they appeared. 
 
 Next morning Ivan and his companions set 
 forward, to go through the usual routine of 
 \dsiting the shrines. It is said, that in some 
 years, more than fifty thousand pilgrims have 
 visited the catacombs, and even now the whole 
 city was fiUed with them, many too encamping 
 outside on the unsheltered ground, thinking to 
 gain more credit with heaven, by thus enduring 
 greater hardship on earth. By early dawn, the 
 whole of that vast concourse of strangers were 
 on foot, hastening to the different places of 
 worship. 
 
 The Church of the Catacombs is adorned with 
 seven golden domes, and seven golden spires, 
 which are connected with gilt chains, now glit- 
 tering with the first bright rays of the rising 
 
«l 
 
 334 THE CIRCASSIAN CHIEF. 
 
 sun, seeming to shed a blaze of glory over the 
 holy edifice, as the orisons of the morning wor- 
 shippers rose towards heaven. Upwards of five 
 hundred feet above the river, rises the dome of 
 the belfry, adorned with Ionic columns and 
 Corinthian pilasters, to which all Russians accord 
 the greatest admii'ation and praise. 
 
 As the doors of the church were thrown open, 
 the eager pilgrims rushed in to throw them- 
 selves before the shrines of their favoiu*ite saints, 
 whose pictures hung over their altars ; though 
 the least devout among them would have been 
 scandalized had an image or figure stood there 
 instead. 
 
 As the first deep and solemn tones of the 
 sacred harmony in the service rose towards 
 heaven, Ivan and his companions entered the 
 cathedral, and foIlo\ving the example of the mul- 
 titude, knelt before one of the altars ; but there 
 was an almost imperceptible curl of contempt on 
 the lip of Javis as they did so, even the boy 
 seemed scarcely so devout as the long pilgrimage 
 he had undertaken w^ould have led one to sup- 
 pose he should be. 
 
 When the service was concluded, the pilgrims 
 bought tapers at the porch of the church, and 
 
THE CIRCASSIAN CHIEF. 335 
 
 forming a procession in a long line, descended 
 a wooden stair-case of many steps to the mouth 
 of the catacombs, down each side of which were 
 arranged an uninterrupted line of kneeling 
 devotees, of the most wretched appearance. The 
 procession halted, as the first part reached the 
 entrance of the excavated passages of the cata- 
 combs, the priest preceding them ; they then 
 slowly and reverently entered the subterraneous 
 vaults, the roof blackened with the smoke of 
 thousands, and tens of thousands of the candles 
 of the faithful, which had burnt there on pre- 
 vious years. 
 
 On each side, in niches in the walls, were 
 placed in open coffins, the bodies of those, who 
 dying in the odour of sanctity, have been canon- 
 ized for theii' pious acts and thoughts. There 
 unburied they remain, enveloped in wrappers of 
 cloth, and silk, highly ornamented with gold and 
 silver embroidery, that their fellow mortals w^ho 
 come to them for intercession, seeing their 
 honours after death, may study to imitate them 
 in the purity of their lives ; while their spiiits, 
 having ascended into heaven, are devoutly be- 
 lieved to exercise an influence with the Father 
 and Son. Their names are written on their 
 
% 
 
 336 THE CIRCASSIAN CHIEF. 
 
 breasts, and many have also a history of their 
 virtuous actions, while their stiffened hands 
 placed before them in the attitude of prayer, 
 receive the kisses of the pilgrims, though few 
 perchance could decypher even the names of 
 those they w^orshipped. 
 
 Further on, they reached a passage in which 
 was a range of small windows, where men had, 
 w^ith their own hands, built themselves in with 
 stones against the wall, leaving open only a 
 small hole to receive their food ; dying with the 
 insane thought, that they were doing their 
 Maker a good service. Before each of the 
 windows of those fanatics' last dwelling, now 
 their tomb, knelt some bigoted and devoted 
 worshipper, fii'mly belie^dng that their self-im- 
 molation and unnatural death, had purchased 
 for them everlasting life, and place, and power, 
 among the spirits of the blessed. 
 
 Though it may seem incredible, yet so it was, 
 that perchance not even one of that vast crowd 
 had any just or clear notions of the tenets of 
 the very religion they professed ; for so igno- 
 rant are the Russian peasants, that the most 
 absurd and superstitious legends find full credit 
 in their minds. Of the attributes of the 
 
THE CIRCASSIAN CHIEF. 337 
 
 Supreme Being, the majority have but the slight- 
 est conception, regarding him in the light of one 
 inferior to their Emperor, and neither respecting 
 nor fearing him so much. So completely does the 
 despotic influence of the Czar extend over the 
 greater mass of the people, that they have been 
 taught to look upon him as one sent with divine 
 authority, to rule over their lives and property, 
 against whom it would be the most dreadful 
 impiety to rebel ; and for this end has their reli- 
 gion, and every feeling, and sentiment of their 
 minds, been made subservient. Yet these are the 
 people, whose rulers profess to extend the benign 
 light of Christianity, and the blessings of civili- 
 zation, among the nations of the East ! 
 
 Leaving the church, as they walked through 
 the crowds, Javis adroitly made inquiries among 
 the peasant pilgrims, as to when a party was 
 likely to start for the west confines of the Empire 
 and gladly found that a band was about to 
 return towards the frontier of Bessarabia the 
 very next morning. With his usual tact and 
 cleverness, he soon discovered where the party 
 was lodging, introducing himself among the 
 peasants, and gaining their good will. They 
 
 VOL. I. Q 
 
338 THE CIRCASSIAN CHIEF. 
 
 therefore gladly received him and his friends 
 among their company. 
 
 The rest of the day was of necessity spent, 
 in their character of pilgrims, in visiting the 
 churches and most interesting sights of that 
 gorgeous city, though gladly did they prepare to 
 accompany the party of self-satisfied pilgrims, 
 who were returning the same way they wished 
 to pursue. 
 
 END OF VOL. I. 
 
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