“The Swedes have a terrible fear of the Tartars, and the soldiers tell wonders of them, from which their fear increases,” said some, looking at the Tartars. “And justly,” answered others. “It is not for the cavalry of Karl to war with the Tartars, who, especially those of the Dobrudja, are equal sometimes to our cavalry. Before a Swedish horseman can look around, the Tartar will have him on a lariat.” “It is a sin to call sons of Pagans to aid us,” said some voice. “Sin or no sin, they will serve us.” “A very decent chambul!” said Zagloba. Really the Tartars were well dressed in white, black, and party-colored sheepskin coats, the wool on the outside; black bows, and quivers full of arrows were shaking on their shoulders; each had besides a sabre, which was not always the case in large chambuls, for the poorest were not able to obtain such a luxury, using in hand-to-hand conflict a horse-skull fastened to a club. But these were men, as was said, to be exhibited; therefore some of them had even muskets in felt cases, and all were sitting on good horses, small, it is true, rather lean and short, with long forelocks on their faces, but of incomparable swiftness. In the centre of the party went also four camels: the crowd concluded that in their packs were presents from the Khan to the king; but in that they were mistaken, for the Khan chose to take gifts, not give them; he promised, it is true, reinforcements, but not for nothing. When they had passed, Zagloba said: “That aid will cost dear. Though allies, they will ruin the country. After the Swedes and them, there will not be one sound roof in the Commonwealth.” “It is sure that they are terribly grievous allies,” said Pan Yan. “I have heard on the road,” said Pan Michael, “that the king has made a treaty, that to every five hundred of the horde is to be given one of our officers, who is to have command and the right of punishment. Otherwise these friends would leave only heaven and earth behind them.” “But this is a small chambul; what will the king do with it?” “The Khan sent them to be placed at the disposal of the king almost as a gift; and though he will make account of them, still the king can do what he likes with them, and undoubtedly he will send them with us to Charnyetski.” “Well, Charnyetski will be able to keep them in bounds.” “Not unless he is among them, otherwise they will plunder. It cannot be, but they will give them an officer at once.” “And will he lead them? But what will that big Agá do?” “If he does not meet a fool, he will carry out orders.” “Farewell, gentlemen!” cried Kmita, on a sudden. “Whither in such haste?” “To fall at the king’s feet, and ask him to give me command of these people.” CHAPTER XIX.