The Deluge · Chapter
XCII explained
Kmita leads a daring retreat to draw the enemy into a trap, crossing the ford under heavy fire.
What happens
Kmita leads a daring retreat to draw the enemy into a trap, crossing the ford under heavy fire. Gosyevski and Volodyovski debate the risks, and Kmita fights fiercely, breaking the enemy center. After the battle, Volodyovski expresses his concern for Olenka and entrusts Kmita with her safety.
Themes in this chapter
- War and Destruction
The chapter depicts intense battle scenes with heavy casualties and tactical maneuvers.
- Love and Sacrifice
Volodyovski's concern for Olenka and his willingness to risk himself for her safety.
- Honor and Betrayal
Kmita's courageous leadership and the loyalty of his men contrast with the enemy's tactics.
Characters to notice
- Andrei Kmita
Leads the retreat and engages in fierce combat, breaking the enemy center.
- Pan Michael Volodyovski
Observes the battle anxiously and later entrusts Kmita with Olenka's safety.
- Gosyevski
Commands the Lithuanian forces, orders the attack, and debates tactics with Volodyovski.
- Soroka
Fights alongside Kmita, guarding his master.
- Yan Sapyeha
Mentioned as having given Kmita chain-mail.
- Olenka Billevich
Volodyovski expresses concern for her safety and entrusts her to Kmita.
Key passages
““As God lives, I wanted that!” cried the hetman, suddenly; and he sprang like a thunderbolt to Voynillovich’s squadron.”
The hetman exclaims that he desired the outcome and quickly moves to lead Voynillovich's squadron.
Gosyevski's decisive action in the battle.
““Stop!” said Gosyevski, rather sharply; “it is enough that those will perish.” “They are perishing already,” replied Volodyovski.”
Gosyevski orders Volodyovski to halt, saying enough men will die, but Volodyovski notes that they are already dying.
Tension between the commanders over the cost of the battle.
““Oh, I would go with you as gladly as to paradise. But I must keep my command. You are fortunate to lead volunteers. Yendrek, listen, brother! and when you find both, take care of that one, so that no evil befall her. God knows, she may be predestined to me.””
Volodyovski says he would gladly join Kmita but must stay with his command, and asks Kmita to protect Olenka if he finds her.
Volodyovski entrusts Olenka's safety to Kmita.
