The Deluge · Chapter
LIX explained
Kmita, still weak and tormented by the loss of Olenka, meets with Volodyovski and other knights.
What happens
Kmita, still weak and tormented by the loss of Olenka, meets with Volodyovski and other knights. They welcome him as a hero after learning of his services at Chenstohova and his capture of Prince Boguslav. Kharlamp provides news that Olenka is likely safe in Taurogi with Yanush Radzivill's widow. The knights advise Kmita to join Charnyetski to confront Boguslav. The chapter ends with a Tartar chambul arriving in Lvov as allies, and Kmita resolves to ask the king for command of them.
Themes in this chapter
- Love and Sacrifice
Kmita's anguish over Olenka's removal drives his actions, showing personal sacrifice amid war.
- Honor and Betrayal
Kmita's honor is restored as his true services are revealed, contrasting with Boguslav's betrayal.
- National Identity and Resistance
The alliance with Tartars and the fight against Sweden highlight the struggle for national survival.
Characters to notice
- Andrei Kmita
Struggling with rage and despair over Olenka's removal; learns of her safety and resolves to join Charnyetski to confront Boguslav.
- Pan Michael Volodyovski
Leads Kmita through the city, calms him, and introduces him to the other knights as the Hector of Chenstohova.
- Zagloba
Welcomes Kmita warmly, reasons that Olenka was taken to control the Billeviches, and comments on the Tartar chambul.
- Yan Skshetuski
Greets Kmita as a brother and future comrade; advises him to capture Boguslav.
- Pan Kharlamp
Provides key information about Olenka's location in Taurogi and Boguslav's likely movements.
- Vansosh
Present at the quarters, recognizes Kmita and bustles to get drinks.
- Prince Boguslav Radzivill
Mentioned as Kmita's enemy who removed Olenka; believed to be in Elblang with Karl Gustav.
- Olenka Billevich
Her removal from Kyedani is the source of Kmita's anguish; reported safe in Taurogi with Yanush's widow.
Key passages
“Control yourself! Despair will do nothing.”
Volodyovski urges Kmita to calm down, as despair is futile.
Volodyovski tries to steady Kmita after his audience with the king.
“I present to you, gentlemen, the Hector of Chenstohova, the faithful servant of the king, who has shed his blood for the faith, the country, and the sovereign.”
Volodyovski introduces Kmita as a hero who defended Chenstohova and served the king faithfully.
Volodyovski publicly honors Kmita for his deeds.
“There is more of politics in this removal than love.”
Ganhoff suggests that Olenka was taken for political reasons, not out of romantic interest.
Kharlamp relays Ganhoff's insight about Olenka's abduction.
