With Fire and Sword · Chapter
XXIX explained
Prince Yeremi receives Skshetuski's report of the refusal of Osinski and Koritski to join forces, ordered by Prince Dominik.
What happens
Prince Yeremi receives Skshetuski's report of the refusal of Osinski and Koritski to join forces, ordered by Prince Dominik. The prince expresses bitterness over the lack of support from the Commonwealth, but his colonels pledge loyalty. The voevoda of Kiev initially hesitates but later agrees to join after news arrives that Krívonos has captured Polónnoe, massacring thousands. The prince resolves to march to aid the endangered regiments.
Themes in this chapter
Leadership and Power
Prince Yeremi struggles against the political machinations of Prince Dominik and the Commonwealth's leadership, yet commands fierce loyalty from his own colonels.
Honor and Betrayal
The refusal of Osinski and Koritski is seen as a betrayal by the prince, while the colonels' pledge of loyalty reaffirms their honor.
Violence and Cruelty
Krívonos's massacre at Polónnoe, including women and children, underscores the savagery of the rebellion.
Characters to notice
- Prince Yeremi Vishnyevetski
Emaciated and gray-haired from struggle, he receives the bad news with tragic calm, then rallies his colonels and decides to march to Konstantinoff.
- Pan Skshetuski
Reports the refusal of Osinski and Koritski, and later shares news that Helena is safe in Bar, receiving the prince's blessing.
- Pan Kisel
The voevoda of Kiev initially argues for negotiations but after hearing of Krívonos's atrocities, agrees to join the prince.
- Pan Zatsvilikhovski
Old colonel present at the council, cheers the concord between the prince and the voevoda.
- Vershul
Brings the news of Krívonos's capture of Polónnoe and the massacre of ten thousand people.
- Pan Aksak
Young officer who passionately declares he will die with the prince.
Key passages
“In vain was he to spend a colossal fortune on the maintenance of armies; in vain was he to struggle like a lion in a net; in vain was he to tear off one head of the rebellion after another, showing wonders of bravery all for nothing.”
Despite his immense wealth and heroic efforts, the prince's victories were rendered futile by the lack of support from his own countrymen.
Highlights the prince's frustration and the theme of betrayal.
“Show favor to the conquered, and they will accept it with thanks and will remember it, but you will be only despised by conquerors.”
Mercy toward the defeated earns gratitude, but showing leniency to those who are winning only invites contempt.
Prince Yeremi's argument against negotiations, reflecting his uncompromising stance.
“We are with you to the last breath, to the last drop of blood! Lead us, lead us! we will serve without pay.”
The colonels pledge their absolute loyalty, willing to fight and die for the prince without any reward.
Demonstrates the deep bond between the prince and his officers.