The Deluge · Chapter
LXXXIX explained
Sakovich receives a letter from Prince Boguslav Radzivill detailing the Swedish setbacks, the loss of Warsaw, and the threat posed by Babinich.
What happens
Sakovich receives a letter from Prince Boguslav Radzivill detailing the Swedish setbacks, the loss of Warsaw, and the threat posed by Babinich. Boguslav advises Sakovich to secure his assets and flee to Birji. Sakovich, terrified of Babinich's approach, decides to remain in Taurogi. Meanwhile, Anusia conspires with Braun to escape with Olenka, revealing that Babinich is marching toward them. Olenka prays for Babinich's success.
Themes in this chapter
- Political Intrigue
Prince Boguslav's letter reveals the complex political maneuvering among the Swedes, the elector, and the Polish king, as well as Sakovich's desperate calculations for survival.
- National Identity and Resistance
The growing rebellion against Swedish occupation is evident, with Babinich leading partisan forces and the Polish king rallying the Commonwealth.
- Love and Sacrifice
Anusia's affection for Babinich and her efforts to free Olenka, along with Olenka's prayers for Babinich, underscore personal loyalties amid the conflict.
Characters to notice
- Pan Sakovich
Receives a letter from Prince Boguslav, despairs over the Swedish losses and Babinich's threat, and decides to stay in Taurogi after a council.
- Prince Boguslav Radzivill
Writes to Sakovich from the campaign, detailing the fall of Warsaw, the Swedish king's plans, and advising flight to Birji.
- Anusia Borzobogati
Plots with Braun to flee Taurogi, reveals Babinich's approach to Olenka, and expresses joy at the prospect of escape.
- Olenka Billevich
Confides in Anusia about her refusal of Prince Boguslav's marriage proposal, and prays for Babinich's safety upon hearing of his march.
- Babinich
Mentioned as marching through Prussia to Lithuania, having defeated Steinbock's force and causing fear in Sakovich.
- Yan Kazimir
Referenced as the king who excluded Prince Boguslav from amnesty and is leading the Polish forces against the Swedes.
- Karl Gustav
Mentioned as the Swedish king marching to Warsaw for a general battle, though his fortunes are waning.
Key passages
“Warsaw is taken from the Swedes. My tabor and effects are lost. It is too late for me to recede, for the king's advisers are so envenomed against me that I was excepted from amnesty.”
Prince Boguslav writes that Warsaw has fallen to the Poles, his supplies are gone, and he cannot turn back because the king's council has excluded him from pardon.
Highlights Boguslav's precarious position and the loss of Warsaw.
“Do not try to measure yourself with Babinich, for you will not be able, but hasten to Birji.”
Prince Boguslav warns Sakovich not to confront Babinich, advising him to flee to Birji instead.
Emphasizes Babinich's feared reputation and the urgency of retreat.
“Pan Babinich is marching hither! Sakovich and all of them are dying of fear! Pan Babinich is marching, burning, and slaying.”
Anusia excitedly tells Olenka that Babinich is approaching, causing terror among Sakovich and his men.
Shows Anusia's joy and the panic Babinich inspires.
