There looked from the blue eyes of the young noble such sincerity and truth that it was impossible to doubt him. He confessed at once that he was in love with another, and besides he had neither the wish nor the head for folly. Finally he gave his word as a cavalier that he would guard the lady from every misfortune, even if he had to lay down his head. “I will take her safely to Pan Sapyeha, for Pan Zamoyski says that the enemy has left Lublin. But I can do no more; not because I hesitate in willing service for your highness, since I am always willing to shed my blood for the widow of the greatest warrior and the glory of the whole Commonwealth, but because I have my own grievous troubles, out of which I know not whether I shall bring my life.” “It is a question of nothing more,” answered the princess, “than that you give her into the hands of Pan Sapyeha, and he will not refuse my request to be her guardian.” Here she gave Kmita her hand, which he kissed with the greatest reverence, and she said in parting,— “Be watchful, Cavalier, be watchful, and do not place safety in this, that the country is free of the enemy.” These last words arrested Kmita; but he had no time to think over them, for Zamoyski soon caught him. “Gracious Knight,” said he, gayly, “you are taking the greatest ornament of Zamost away from me.” “But at your wish,” answered Kmita. “Take good care of her. She is a toothsome dainty. Some one may be ready to take her from you.” “Let him try! Oh, ho! I have given the word of a cavalier to the princess, and with me my word is sacred.” “Oh, I only say this as a jest. Fear not, neither take unusual caution.” “Still I will ask of your serene great mightiness a carriage with windows.” “I will give you two. But you are not going at once, are you?” “I am in a hurry. As it is, I am here too long.” “Then send your Tartars in advance to Krasnystav. I will hurry off a courier to have oats ready for them there, and will give you an escort of my own to that place. No evil can happen to you here, for this is my country. I will give you good men of the German dragoons, bold fellows and acquainted with the road. Besides, to Krasnystav the road is as if cut out with a sickle.” “But why am I to stay here?” “To remain longer with us; you are a dear guest. I should be glad to detain you a year. Meanwhile I shall send to the herds at Perespa; perhaps some horse will be found which will not fail you in need.” Kmita looked quickly into the eyes of his host; then, as if making a sudden decision, said,— “I thank you, I will remain, and will send on the Tartars.” He went straight to give them orders, and taking Akbah Ulan to one side he said,—