# LI explained — With Fire and Sword

> Chapter companion for With Fire and Sword by Henryk Sienkiewicz.

## What happens

Commissioners, led by the ailing Kisel, attempt to negotiate with Hmelnitski, who oscillates between drunken cordiality and violent threats. Hmelnitski refuses to halt hostilities, citing Lithuanian attacks, and insists on war 'till next grass.' The Polish nobles endure insults and humiliation, barely restraining themselves to protect captive lives. Skshetuski's earlier defiance is discussed, and Kisel's physical and emotional suffering is highlighted.

## Themes in this chapter

### Honor and Betrayal

The commissioners endure public humiliation and betrayal of diplomatic norms, while Hmelnitski mocks their honor.

### Leadership and Power

Hmelnitski's erratic, drunken leadership contrasts with Kisel's frail but dignified diplomacy.

### Violence and Cruelty

Threats of beheading captives, crude jokes about slitting throats, and the underlying menace of war pervade the chapter.

## Character check-ins

### Pan Kisel

The voevoda, ill and exhausted, leads the commission and endures Hmelnitski's insults with resignation.

### Bogdan Hmelnitski

The hetman, drunk and belligerent, alternates between threats and feigned friendship, delaying any real negotiation.

### Pan Skshetuski

Reprimanded by Kisel for his earlier defiance; he is ordered to hand over command to Bjozovski.

### Pan Bjozovski

Takes command of the dragoons; nearly loses his temper at Hmelnitski's insults but restrains himself.

### Yashevski

A Cossack colonel who taunts the commissioners and demands Prince Yeremi be handed over.

### Old Filon Daidyalo

Makes a crude joke about slitting the nobles' throats, contributing to the hostile atmosphere.

### Colonel Donyets

Assigned by Hmelnitski to escort the commissioners, ensuring their safety from the mob.

## Key lines

> To the health of the king!

Hmelnitski proposes a toast to the king.

_A moment of feigned loyalty amid the tension._

> Till next grass.

Hmelnitski delays any action until spring.

_A recurring phrase indicating his strategy of postponing serious negotiations._

> Give us Yeremi, and we will let you off!

The Cossacks demand Prince Yeremi as a condition for peace.

_Shows the Cossacks' primary grievance against the Polish commander._

## Links

- HTML: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/with_fire_and_sword_se/chapters/li
- Book: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/with_fire_and_sword_se
- All chapters: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/with_fire_and_sword_se/chapters