The Deluge · Chapter
XIV explained
Prince Radzivill extracts a solemn oath of loyalty from Kmita on the crucifix, binding him to the hetman until death.
What happens
Prince Radzivill extracts a solemn oath of loyalty from Kmita on the crucifix, binding him to the hetman until death. Kmita, bewildered by the prince's dark hints about treason and approaching trials, nevertheless swears allegiance. Later, at a grand ball in Kyedani, Kmita spots Olenka Billevich among the guests and is overwhelmed by longing and regret. Radzivill, meanwhile, moves graciously among the nobles, hinting at his plans and preparing the ground for Kmita's marriage to Olenka.
Themes in this chapter
- Honor and Betrayal
Kmita swears an oath of loyalty to Radzivill, yet the prince's dark hints about treason and approaching trials underscore the theme of honor versus betrayal in a time of shifting allegiances.
- Political Intrigue
Radzivill's manipulation of Kmita through oaths, marriage promises, and veiled warnings exemplifies the political machinations among the nobility during the Swedish invasion.
- Love and Sacrifice
Kmita's intense longing for Olenka and his willingness to bind himself to Radzivill in hopes of winning her hand highlight the intersection of personal love and political sacrifice.
Characters to notice
- Andrei Kmita
Swears an oath of loyalty to Radzivill on the crucifix; is deeply moved and confused by the prince's ominous words; later at the ball he spots Olenka and is filled with longing and self-reproach.
- Yanush Radzivill
Extracts a solemn oath from Kmita; speaks of approaching trials, treason, and enemies; hosts a grand ball at Kyedani, moving among guests with polished manners and hinting at his plans.
- Olenka Billevich
Present at the ball; Kmita sees her from a distance and is overcome with emotion; Radzivill has arranged for her to be there and has spoken to the sword-bearer about her marriage to Kmita.
- Tomash Billevich
The sword-bearer of Rossyeni; Radzivill has spoken with him about Kmita's marriage to Olenka; he is present at the ball and is greeted by the prince.
- Prince Boguslav Radzivill
Mentioned as having brought a Frenchman to direct the orchestra; his arrival at Kyedani is part of the ongoing events.
- Mirski
Colonel Mirski is listed among the guests at the ball.
- Ganhoff
Colonel Ganhoff is listed among the guests at the ball.
Key passages
“Now you are mine, said the prince, at last.”
Radzivill declares that Kmita is now bound to him.
After Kmita swears on the crucifix, the prince asserts his control over the young knight.
“On this passion of Christ, I swear! said Kmita, placing his finger on the crucifix.”
Kmita swears a solemn oath on the crucifix.
Kmita pledges unwavering loyalty to Radzivill until death.
“She is here! After a while I shall see her, I shall speak to her, said he in thought.”
Kmita thinks to himself that Olenka is present and he will soon see and speak to her.
At the ball, Kmita spots Olenka and is filled with anticipation and emotion.
