Thaddeus laughed, and gave a shrug of his shoulders, as he replied--

"Your emancipation from college, my dear Ivan, has, in truth,

wonderfully expanded the liberality of your sentiments; and it is indeed

fortunate that the idea had not there occurred to you of giving lectures

on the rights and independence of man; they would have wonderfully

edified your hearers among the cadets, and made most admirable subjects

and soldiers of them for the Emperor; but your exertions in the cause of

liberty would not have gained you much credit in higher quarters."

"Your foolish bantering," answered the excited Ivan, "is but a poor

apology for your want of liberal principles. Nor am I the madman you

wish to make me appear. You well know how much I detested the thraldom

in which we were kept at college, and that I pursued my studies with

redoubled efforts and perseverance, in order to emancipate myself as

soon as possible from that irksome and hated state. To you, as a tried

and only friend, I have now opened my mind, trusting to have had a

hearer who would cordially agree in my sentiments; but it appears that I

have been grievously mistaken, and I have learned a bitter lesson--to

trust in no living soul!"

The tones of the speaker's voice shewed that his anger had risen to such

a degree, that a reply in the former bantering strain would probably

have caused a breach in the friendship of the two young men. Thaddeus,

therefore, wisely endeavoured to calm his friend's anger by

acknowledging the justness of his sentiments, and by promising to adopt

them himself if possible, when suddenly their attention was roused by a

sound, which seemed like a human voice shrieking for help, as from a

distance the breeze conveyed it faintly to their ears. They had now

entered an extensive tract of open forest, the trees generally scattered

over the ground at some distance from each other, yet in many places

clustering together, surrounded by dense masses of thick and tangled

underwood.

The young men seemed mutually to have banished the feelings raised by

their late warm discussion, and instantly urged their horses at full

speed in the direction whence they fancied the sound had proceeded, when

a second faint cry, though appearing to come from a greater distance,

assured them that they were following the right course.

Their horses were greatly impeded by the rough and uncertain nature of

the ground, and often they were obliged to make them leap over the furze

and straggling underwood, at the risk of descending into some unseen

cavity, or of plunging into a morass. Notwithstanding the numerous

obstacles, they hurried on at increased speed, eager to render their

assistance; for they were confident that the piercing cry they had heard

must have been uttered by a woman in distress. They were just emerging

from a clump of trees among which they had been entangled, when again

the cry was heard, loud and distinct, and at that instant they caught

sight of two horsemen galloping among the trees, one of whom bore a

female in his arms; these were followed by two men on foot running at

full speed. It was the work of some few minutes before they could

disengage themselves from the thickets and brushwood, a delay which

afforded the party ahead of them an opportunity of increasing their

distance; but, urging their horses with whip and spur over every

obstacle, and gaining the more clear around, they ere long overtook the

men on foot, who, seeing their rapid approach, shouted loudly to their

companions to return to their support. The latter, however, in lieu of

turning to render assistance, redoubled their speed, intent upon escape,

and regardless of the loud cries of their overtaken followers. These,

finding escape impossible, rushed forward to seize the bridles of their

pursuers' horses, but were so effectually attacked by the heavy whips of

the two cavaliers, that they were fain, not only to loose their hold,

but were completely disabled from following.

Having thus got rid of these antagonists, the two friends set off in

pursuit of the mounted ruffians, who were forcibly carrying away the

female; her continued cries for assistance, indicating the track they

had taken.

The scene had become highly exciting. Before them lay an open forest

glade, and it was now a trial of speed. The noble animals urged to

their utmost, dashed onwards, appearing to partake of the feelings which

animated their riders.

The ravishers, on the near approach of their pursuers, turned on their

saddles, each levelling a pistol at his selected man; these, fearful of

wounding the female, would not venture to use their arms. The

unencumbered horseman discharged his pistol at Thaddeus, as the latter

approached; but, at the speed they rode, the aim was uncertain, and the

ball flew wide of its mark; before the villain had time to use a second,

the young Pole struck him on the head with the butt-end of his whip,

with so powerful and well directed a blow, as to force him from the

saddle, from which he fell heavily to the earth.

At the same moment, his companion, on Ivan's attempting to seize his

horse's bridle, aimed a pistol at his breast; but that movement leaving

his victim free, she quickly disengaged her arm from the folds of the

cloak which shrouded her, and struck aside the barrel of the weapon

levelled at her rescuer; the impulse, though feeble, was sufficient to

divert its deadly aim; the ball nevertheless grazed Ivan's side. The

latter succeeded, notwithstanding, in grasping the bridle of his

antagonist's horse, and the same delicate hand which had but a moment

previously, in all probability saved his life, promptly snatched the

pistol yet remaining in the ruffian's belt, and cast it to the ground.

The man who had fired at Ivan, was now obliged to defend himself, and

was accordingly compelled to relax his hold of the girl, who, when

falling from the saddle, was fortunately caught by Thaddeus. The latter

had thrown himself from his horse to prevent her sustaining any serious

injury, which, closely engaged as Ivan was with his adversary, he had no

power to avert.

Giddy from the pain of his wound, and loss of blood, Ivan loosened his

grasp of the rein he had seized; this being perceived by his antagonist,

he plunged his spurs into his horse's flanks, and dashed off at headlong

speed into the depths of the forest, where pursuit was entirely useless.

The young men, left victors of the field, now turned their attention to

the fair creature whom their gallantry had so opportunely rescued; and

well did the extreme beauty of her form and features merit the looks of

surprise and admiration with which they regarded her.

Her appearance was indeed unusual, and though they saw at once, that she

was not one of the exalted and proud ones of the land, they internally

confessed, that she was well worthy of that distinction. The agitation

of the scene had caused the rich blood to mantle on her brow and

beautifully oval cheeks, the complexion of which was of a clear, though

slightly tinted olive, while her large sparkling black eyes, moist with

tears, were now beaming with a look of gratitude, as bending on her

knees, she attempted to kiss the hands of her deliverers, who prevented

her from paying them this homage. Her glossy black locks, bound by a

silver fillet on her high and polished brow, were uncovered, and hung

down in long ringlets on her neck, nearly reaching to her slender waist.

A light blue cloak thrown over her shoulders, and a vest and petticoat

of red cloth trimmed with silver, completed her fantastic, but elegant

and rich attire.

The character of her strange costume, and her dark expressive features,

proclaimed her to be of that extraordinary race now wandering over the

greater part of the old world, who profess to trace their origin from

the aboriginal inhabitants of Egypt; retaining the same language and

customs from age to age, and ever keeping distinct from the people in

whose territories they pass their migratory lives.

The scene we have described, passed in the course of a few moments,

during which time the young men had become entire masters of the field;

one villain, who by his dress and manners, appeared to be of a rank far

above his companions, had fled; the other still remained senseless on

the earth, from the stunning blow Thaddeus had dealt him; while the two

men, whom they had first attacked, lay in a similar plight at a

considerable distance.

Astonishment kept her deliverers silent, as they gazed with admiration

on the Gipsy girl, for her delicate features and slight airy figure

shewed her extreme youth; she was accordingly the first to speak, when

she found herself prevented by them from expressing her feelings of

gratitude in the way she wished.

"Though you may deem, gentle Sirs, that the thanks of a humble Gipsy

girl can be but of little worth," she said, "oh! believe me, that from

the depth of my heart, I am grateful to you, for having saved me from

worse than death, for well do I know the vile nature of the man from

whom you have rescued me. But let me entreat you, haste from hence, or

the ruffian noble who has escaped, will return with a band of his

followers trained to evil, and will thus not only render your generous

and timely aid unavailing, by again getting me into his power, but his

return may bring destruction on yourselves."

"Fear not for us;" cried Thaddeus, "for your sake, lovely maiden, we

would face a hundred foes; and think not that such an arrant coward, as

yonder villain has shewn himself to be, can make us hurry our departure.

If he be even one of the most powerful of the land, we fear him not."

"He is wicked and powerful enough to commit his crimes with impunity,"

answered the Gipsy girl; "let me pray you earnestly, therefore, to

complete the benefit you have rendered me, and to follow my advice by

hastening from hence; for I feel confident, that he will endeavour to

revenge himself on you, for your interference in my favour, and will

return shortly with a greater number of men than you could possibly

resist."

"You speak truly, I believe," said Ivan, "and we shall do well to follow

your advice."

"You are always in the right, Ivan," answered Thaddeus, "so I suppose we

may beat a retreat after our victory, without dishonour, when an

overpowering force threatens us."

"Oh! yes!--yes!" exclaimed the liberated girl, "hasten from hence; and

believe me, there is not a moment to be lost. Yet, grant me but the one

favour more, of allowing my kindred and friends to return you those

thanks which my words cannot fully convey."

"We will, at all events, see you in safety," answered Ivan, "and, at

your desire, we will avoid the chance of meeting your enemies, however

little we have reason to fear them."

They accordingly prepared to quit the scene of their encounter, and Ivan

was about to offer to raise the fairy-like form of the Gipsy girl on his

horse, when the slight exertion he made, caused the blood to flow more

freely from his side, and she caught sight of the red stream trickling

down, which he himself had not observed, for the pain was but slight,

and the excitement of action had diverted his attention from it. The

colour for an instant deserted her cheek, as taking a light scarf from

under her cloak, she petitioned him to allow her to bind his wound.

"You are hurt, Sir," she exclaimed, "and I am the unhappy cause of the

injury. My tribe have some skill in surgery: even I myself have

received instruction in the art from an aged woman learned in simples,

and thus think me not bold in making the offer, but as the slightest

mark of my gratitude, let me be allowed to heal the wound I have been

the cause of your receiving."

Ivan thankfully accepted her aid, as with gentleness she quickly bound

his side with the scarf, for the pain had now considerably increased.

While thus engaged, they perceived the two villains whom they had left

senseless on the earth, cautiously endeavouring to steal upon them,

crouching as they advanced among the low thickets; and at the same time

the man who had been felled from his horse, shewed signs of returning

animation. Thaddeus humanely placed the body of the latter reclining

against a tree, having wrested from him his weapons, which he cast,

together with such as lay on the ground, to a distance, amongst the

underwood. The Gipsy girl had just completed her task, when the horse

belonging to their prostrate enemy, after ranging the glade in a wide

circle, without however going out of sight, now approached the spot he

had first left, as if in search of his master: with the rapidity of

thought she sprung forward, and catching the animal's bridle, lightly

vaulted on his back without any apparent effort, merely touching the

saddle to steady herself in her perilous feat.

"Now, for the love of the God you worship," she exclaimed, "ride on,

noble Sirs, nor care for me. We children of the Desert are early

accustomed to far more difficult feats than this, and without danger, I

can retain my seat on a more spirited steed than the one which now bears

me."

The young men, following her example, had mounted their horses, and on

her pointing out with her hand the road they were to take, the party set

off at full speed, though the former were compelled to apply their spurs

closely in order to keep pace with the less fatigued steed of their

beautiful and extraordinary guide. She, avoiding the thick tangled part

of the forest, which had before impeded them, conducted them by a more

circuitous way, but over smooth open ground, and at a much greater speed

than they had been able to attain when hurrying to her rescue, until

they regained the high road, which they crossed, and plunged into the

adjoining forest. Suddenly checking her horse, she then addressed

them--

"Fear gave me the fleetness of the timid hare; but truly ungrateful must

I appear, through my own weakness, in forgetting that one of my generous

preservers is suffering severe pain. Oh, pardon me, for my fault,

caused by the dread of a danger which you are now unable to understand."

Ivan assured her that his wound inconvenienced him so little, that he

was able to continue at the same swift pace, if she thought it

advisable; she again resumed the lead, though not quite so rapidly as

before.

"Your horses are fatigued," she said, as they rode onwards, "and the day

is so far spent, that it will be after nightfall ere you can reach any

shelter, and I fear that, before long, a storm will burst over our

heads: yon black cloud is but the forerunner of others."

As she spoke, she pointed to an opening among the trees, through which

were seen dense masses of clouds fast gathering on the sky. "If you

despise not the humble shelter of a gipsy tent, you will there be

treated to the best of our means, for the people of my tribe, though

rough and fierce in aspect, will vie with each other in shewing their

attention and devotion to those who have rescued one of their daughters

from peril."

A determination not to leave the young Gipsy, until they had escorted

her to a place of safety, added to a natural feeling of curiosity to

learn something of the beautiful creature whom chance had introduced to

them under such exciting circumstances, prompted both Ivan and Thaddeus

to accept her offer of hospitality without hesitation.

Although but a few minutes previously, the sky over head had been bright

and clear, the storm which their guide had predicted, now threatened to

overtake them, as the heavens became overcast with a dark canopy of

clouds.

Once more pressing their jaded horses, they galloped on for several

miles, scarcely noticing the nature of the country through which they

passed, until they arrived at a spot so thickly wooded as to render a

passage impracticable. Their conductress, however, advancing a little

to the right, led them along a path formed apparently by the hand of

nature, through a narrow entrance, winding in various directions, and

widening as they proceeded, till they suddenly emerged into a sylvan

amphitheatre carpeted with soft green turf. In one part of the

wood-encircled glade, arose a group of tents, surrounded by waggons;

whilst horses and other cattle tethered hard by, were browsing on the

luxuriant pasture.

The approach of the party was immediately announced by the loud barking

of several large shaggy dogs, who rushed forward with open jaws,

prepared to attack all intruders; but no sooner did the savage animals

hear the silvery tone of the guide's voice, than their angry growl was

changed into a cry of joy, as leaping up they fawned on her, and

endeavoured to gain her caresses. They were quickly recalled by a man

who issued from the shelter of the waggons, armed with a long gun; he,

on recognising the Gipsy maiden advanced without any parley, to hold her

horse's rein, as she dismounted, springing lightly on the turf. A

shrill whistle from him brought out two rough looking little urchins,

who, at his sign, ran quickly forward to perform the same office for the

strangers.

After exchanging a few words with the attendant, in a language

unintelligible to Ivan and Thaddeus, their guide led the way towards a

tent, which, from its size appeared to be the principal in the

encampment: like the rest it was formed of skins neatly sewn together,

affording a secure shelter from the weather.

In front stood a tall well-built man, whose dark elf locks escaping from

beneath a sheep-skin cap, gave him somewhat of a ferocious appearance,

which, however, his full and sparkling black eye, and the laughing curl

of his lips fully belied. His dress consisted of a cloth jacket

confined at the waist by a leathern belt, and full trousers with

leggings of untanned leather. He gazed with a look of astonishment at

the intruders, then at their conductress, from whom he seemed to ask for

an explanation, as she hastened to meet him with an air of affection.

Folding her in his arms with a fond and gentle embrace, after exchanging

a few words in a hurried and low tone of voice, he stepped up to where

the strangers stood, and grasping their hands, pressed them to his

heart.

"The preservers of my daughter," he said, addressing them in Russian,

"are thrice welcome to my humble tent, and it will be my aim, and that

of all the tribe, of which I am the head, to show to the utmost our

gratitude for the benefit conferred upon us. Think not, noble Sirs,

that, though the world accuses us of many vices, ingratitude is one with

which we can be justly charged. But see! while I thus detain you the

storm is about to burst, and my tent will at least afford you shelter

from its fury, though it be destitute of the luxuries to which you are

accustomed."

Heavy drops of rain had now commenced falling; the wind whistled

mournfully through the boughs of the trees, which became wildly agitated

by the sudden blast, while vivid flashes of lightning darted from the

heavens, and played around their heads.

"Will you deign, noble Sirs, to enter the only abode I can call my own,"

said the Gipsy chief, leading the way to his tent; "a very changeable

one in truth; but wherever my tent is pitched, there shall my friends be

welcome."

Saying which, he arrived at the entrance of the principal tent, while

his daughter, making a sign of respect to his guests, withdrew to a

neighbouring one.

Volume 1, Chapter II.

The travellers had full reason to congratulate themselves on escaping

the torrents of rain now rushing down from the thick-gathered clouds, as

they followed the Gipsy chief into his tent, the interior of which

seemed to afford better accommodation than its outward appearance had

promised. About midway, a curtain stretching the whole width of the

tent, now drawn up, exposed the whole of the interior at one view; but

on being unfolded, formed two distinct apartments. The furniture was of

the most simple description, consisting merely of several large chests,

on which were piled various rolls of skins and blankets, and a few

stools and benches. At one end, suspended against the sides of the

tent, hung a variety of kitchen utensils in the highest state of polish;

at the other, fire-arms of different sizes and workmanship,

powder-flasks, and shot-belts, and hunting-knives, picturesquely mingled

with the produce of the chase. There were also several planks intended

for tables, beds, or for seats. The ground was hidden from view by a

warm and soft carpet of skins; the selection of the spot was judicious,

for, being raised slightly above the surrounding land, it remained

perfectly dry, notwithstanding the flood of rain outside.

The only inmate of the tent, when the party entered, was a handsome

woman, whom the Gipsy introduced to the strangers as his wife. She was

busily employed in some housewifery occupation, which she quitted to

receive the visitors, assuming an air which would not have disgraced a

high-born lady, and then proceeded to prepare the evening repast.

A couple of chests were brought forward, upon which they laid a platform

of boards, forming an excellent table: this was quickly covered with an

abundance of cold provisions, fowls and game of various kinds, coarse

but sweet bread, and a bottle of Quass, the common beverage of the

country, manufactured from malt; nor were more potent spirits wanting to

cheer the guests.

Their host requested the young men to be seated at the table, while he

and his wife attended to their wants, nor would he be prevailed upon to

join them in their repast. "It behoves us," he replied, "to wait on

you, while our tent is honoured by your presence; and I pray you, Sirs,

to excuse my daughter Azila's absence, she has retired among the other

maidens of the tribe, to rest awhile after the fatigue her looks too

clearly betray she has suffered. I confess I am still ignorant of the

details of her adventure; it was sufficient at first for me to know that

you had conferred a benefit on one so dear to me.

"Her protracted absence had, indeed, given me anxiety, as she had not

told me of her intention to quit the camp; but at the same time I do not

interfere with her movements, which are often unknown to any of the

tribe, and she is accustomed to go and return unquestioned. Azila is

indeed a strange girl, and few can match her in understanding, or

resolution; I well know that she has always just reasons for her

frequent excursions from the camp, and that her exertions are in the

cause of justice and humanity, so I do not seek to inquire into more

than what she herself thinks right to tell me; I know well that I can

trust her."

Although their host's features and manner evidently exhibited his

anxiety to learn all that had occurred, his hospitality would not permit

his guests to speak of their adventure until the repast was finished;

when they recounted the events which led to their liberation of his

daughter. While they were speaking, the object of their conversation

entered the tent, and approaching her father, reverently kissed his

hand, then bowing to his guests, with arms crossed on her bosom she

stood with downcast eyes by his side. The father gazed on her with

looks of affection, while the young men could scarcely conceal their

admiration.

"Can this retiring, modest creature," thought Ivan, "be the same who, so

short a time since, proved herself endowed with so much courage and

resolution?"

Neither of the two friends could, for some time, find words to address

her, for they felt that terms of flattery and compliment would be

despised by one so superior; her father, however, relieved them from

their embarrassment.

"Now that our guests have tasted of our food, and drunk from our cup, I

may ask of you, my child, an explanation of the circumstances that

preceded your rescue. I burn to know who has dared to commit such an

outrage on one of the children of the Zingani; whoever he be, he shall

not escape the punishment due to his villainy."

A blush mantled on the cheek of the Gipsy girl as she answered, "Alas!

my father, I fear that my enemy is too powerful and cautious, for you to

be able to punish him, and there are circumstances which have lately

occurred to me, I would fain have hidden even from you, had not he of

whom I am about to speak, carried his persecution to so flagrant an

extent. My story is a long one; but at your desire I will relate it,

entreating my brave defenders will pardon a poor maiden for her

hesitation in recounting events which have caused her much pain.

"During one of my last visits to Moscow, when our encampment was formed

in its vicinity, I one day joined a party of the daughters of another

tribe of our people, to one of whom I had matters to communicate. They

were dancing and singing in the public gardens to crowds of admiring

citizens, who were enjoying their evening's recreation after the toils

of the day. As we moved from place to place, I observed a person

intently observing me, who I fancied had, during the day, been watching

and following me; and him I now distinguished from the crowd by his

handsome dress, and the disdain with which he regarded all around him.

As I moved on with my companions he still followed us, till at length

weary, doubtless, of viewing the same dances, and hearing the same

songs, he disappeared from the gardens, and I then concluded that I had

been mistaken in my suspicions. The evening was far advanced when,

having parted from my companions, I set out alone to return to the

encampment, and in seeking to reach it by a shorter path, I found myself

in a secluded walk. Hastening along, I was suddenly confronted by a

stranger whom I immediately recognised as the same, who had previously

watched my movements in the gardens. As I endeavoured to pass him

unnoticed, he seized my arm with a rude grasp, and exclaimed:

"`Ah! have I at last found you, my fair damsel, for whom I have been

searching so many long days? Often have I seen you, but until now never

gained an opportunity of declaring my sentiments. I am the Count

Erintoff! My carriage is waiting near, and will soon transport you

beyond the reach of those who have interested motives in detaining you

among them.'

"I cannot repeat all the arguments he used to persuade me to accompany

him, or the terms of flattery and base offers he made. I treated them

all with the disdain they deserved. When he pronounced his name, I

recollected that I had heard he was notorious for many vices, even among

those of his own rank, with whom virtue is too seldom practised, or

prized.

"`Unhand me, Sir,' I exclaimed; `I will no longer listen to you, but

would pursue my way to my friends.'

"`Ah, my scornful beauty,' he answered with a laugh, `not so fast I pray

you; if prayers avail not, I must e'en use gentle force to compel you to

accept advantages you would so foolishly reject; though not for the

universe would I injure you. Here, knaves!' summoning to the spot by

their various names, some of the vile assistants in his crimes.

"Seeing his servants hastily advancing, I struggled in his grasp, and

managed by a sudden effort to break from his hold; when darting along

the road, without once looking back, I reached the camp, panting and

breathless. This outrage remained concealed within my own bosom, for I

well knew that the least hint would cause many to take more than ample

revenge for the insult I had received. Having sustained no actual

injury, and trusting that he would desist from any further persecution

of me, I was unwilling to bring any of my tribe into danger, by

interfering with so powerful an adversary.

"Alas! I was doomed to be too soon again exposed to his vile projects!

This morning, I had gone forth from the camp with Aza, Lina, and other

of our maidens, accompanied by many of the children, to enjoy our

pastime in the woods, when in the midst of our sport, after chasing each

other among the trees, I became separated from the rest. I heard the

laughter of my companions as they retreated, but owing to the closeness

of the trees, I could not distinguish their figures; at that moment, a

cry was raised by the children, that they had seen a stranger in the

wood. I hurried away as rapidly as possible to rejoin the party, when

on a sudden, I was seized by two men, who had sprung from a neighbouring

thicket. In an instant, before I could recover from the alarm of their

assault, they threw a handkerchief over my head, to prevent me from

crying for assistance. Notwithstanding my utmost resistance, they bore

me roughly forward, until they reached another thicket; when the

handkerchief being partly withdrawn from my eyes, I beheld a man on

horseback, whose features were shrouded in his large cloak, attended by

another holding the rein of a led horse. They endeavoured to persuade

me to mount it, but I resolutely refused to stir from the spot; nothing

they said could induce me, when the cloaked horseman losing patience at

the delay, seized me round the waist, placed me on the saddle before

him, and bidding one of his followers mount the led horse, bore me off

at fall speed. Catching a glimpse of my captor's countenance, to my

horror I discovered that I was in the power of the Count Erintoff. The

dreadful recollection now flashed across my mind, that we were in the

neighbourhood of one of his estates; and I exerted my utmost strength to

escape from his grasp, careless of falling to the ground in the attempt;

but he held me firmly, protesting, that he loved me to distraction, and

that nothing mortal should deliver me from him; while he threatened

deadly vengeance against any who should dare to make the attempt.

"I could only vent my anger and terror in loud cries for assistance,

having succeeded in withdrawing the bandage from my mouth, nor could he

replace it, though the advantage offered me but slender hopes of my

cries being heard.

"Thus was I forced away for a considerable distance, in utter despair of

being liberated, when I was gallantly rescued by these noble gentlemen

at the hazard of their lives. Oh, believe me, Sirs," she added, "that

the Zingani maiden can never, while life endure, be unmindful of the

great benefit you have bestowed on her."

At this recital, the eye of the Gipsy chief flashed with indignation;

"The audacious barbarian," he exclaimed, "shall rue his vile attempt,

though happily rendered abortive; nor shall his high rank protect him!

Can he not be content to tyrannise over the hapless slaves already in

his power, but that he must seek for fresh victims among our tribe?

Does he mistake us for the wretched serfs who till his lands? He has

yet to learn that the Zingani are not of their base caste. But, Azila,

my child! what causes thy sudden agitation?"

"See, see, my father," she cried, pointing to Ivan, who overcome by

fatigue and the pain of his wound, was falling to the ground, when the

Gipsy sprang forward and caught him in his arms. "Alas," cried Azila,

with an agitated voice, "how ungrateful indeed I have been, and

neglectful of him who risked his life to save me, that I should forget

he had been wounded! but I will haste and conduct Hagar hither, who will

tend him with greater skill than I can, though not with more care."

Azila had scarcely left the tent when Ivan returned to consciousness, as

he reclined in his friend's arms, Thaddeus having relieved the Gipsy of

his charge.

"He will soon be restored by the care of our venerable mother, Hagar,"

said the chief; "for there are few in this country so well acquainted as

she is with the healing art." As he spoke, the person mentioned entered

the tent, accompanied by Azila.

Her locks were blanched, and her form bowed down by the weight of many

years; yet though her skin was wrinkled and tawny, the fire of her dark

expressive eye seemed unquenched. "Mother," said Azila, "as you love

your child, exercise your utmost skill in the healing art, by recovering

this stranger, who has been wounded in my defence; by your help I know

that he may be speedily restored to health."

"Child," replied the sybil, "the power of healing belongs alone to the

great spirit who guards our tribe, and I am but his poor servant, ready

to use the means he places in my hands; these will I gladly employ to

cure this stranger, though by his looks, I judge that quiet and repose

are the remedies most needful for him."

Such indeed was the case, and in compliance with the old woman's

request, the Gipsy's wife busied herself in preparing the tent for the

night. The curtain alluded to, as intended to separate it into two

chambers, was lowered, while, a bundle of skins and blankets being

unrolled, a couch was quickly spread on the planks and chests, which had

previously composed the table. Thither Ivan was soon conveyed in the

arms of his friend and their host, the rest of the family having quitted

the tent, with the exception of Hagar, who proceeded to examine the

wound; the Gipsy meanwhile preparing a second couch, which he begged

Thaddeus would occupy. The old woman, having completed her inspection

of the hurt, and desiring the sufferer to remain perfectly quiet until

her return, left the tent to procure the curative simples necessary to

dress it.

Placing a lamp on the ground in the centre of the tent, the Gipsy chief,

ere he parted from his guests, thus addressed them:

"Rest in perfect security, noble Sirs. I am about to perform the rounds

of the encampment, to place trusty men on the watch, in case the

ruffians, who have this day attempted so vile an outrage on my daughter,

should be excited by revenge at her liberation to attack us under cover

of the night. I scarcely deem them possessed of sufficient courage to

venture on so bold a project; but their leader is capable of any

atrocity; and in this land, where the rich and powerful are above the

law, he relies on escaping with impunity, however flagrant the injury

committed against the poor and humble. The wandering life we lead

teaches us caution; but on my well-trained dogs I can place most

reliance in case of a sudden assault, for they never slumber on their

posts." With a respectful salutation, he then quitted the tent.

Left alone with his friend, Thaddeus endeavoured to enter into

conversation on the occurrences of the day; but Ivan, overcome by the

pain of his wound, replied in so faint and languid a voice, as plainly

shewed that he was in no state to answer his observations. He

accordingly stepped noiselessly to the entrance of the tent, and gazed

on the wild and unusual scene which lay before him. The storm had now

passed away, leaving the dark blue sky in unobscured splendour, spangled

with millions of glittering stars, which appeared to have derived a

brighter lustre, as if burnished by the rolling of the dark clouds, or

sparkling in triumph at the rapid flights of their sable adversaries.

A crescent moon threw a silvery light on the topmost boughs of the

forest trees, whose giant shadows lay stretched in calm repose across

the verdant glade.

At times he could perceive dark figures emerging from the shade, and

flitting through the moon-light, again to be lost in the gloom, like

uneasy spirits wandering in search of rest; but which he concluded were

either parties returning to their tents, or the patrols on duty in the

camp.

Thus he stood for some time wrapt in meditation, when suddenly he

started at the apparition of a figure which, issuing noiselessly from

the obscurity, was within a few paces of him ere it was observed. He

instantly recognised Hagar, as she advanced, leaning on her staff, and

bearing in her hand a small basket. Her white locks, hanging in

disorder over her wrinkled and care-worn brow, caused her to resemble

one of the weird sisters bent on midnight evil, rather than a minister

of good, hastening to relieve a human being.

The young Pole might be excused if a tinge of superstitious distrust

crossed his mind, and he hesitated to commit his wounded friend to the

care of so strange a leech; but quickly banishing his doubts, he led the

way into the tent. Kneeling by Ivan's couch the aged Hagar gently

withdrew the scarf, which Azila had applied as a bandage, and washing

the wound with a decoction of herbs contained in her basket, again

swathed it in linen. During the operation, she had continued muttering

to herself, regardless whether her patient or his friend were listening,

in the following strain:

"Aye, aye, too clearly do I see how it will be, and thus it has ever

been! Slight wounds oft pierce far deeper than mortal eyes can see; and

young hearts fear not the weapon that destroys them, but bare their

bosoms to the stroke! Aye, my child, my loved one! bound nearer to my

heart than my own offspring, may thy generous and noble heart have no

cause to rue the wound this stranger youth has this day received in thy

cause! Would that I could so read thy fate, as to guard thee from evil!

Yet when I gaze on the star of thy destiny, my eyes grow dim, my

thoughts become confused, and it vanishes from my sight. This

stranger--he will be led by a far different path to any that thou canst

follow, my child; for in this world justice will never be done thee. He

will pursue his course among the high and mighty, and forget the Gipsy

maiden. Or if perchance she should recur to his memory, it will be but

as a phantom of a waking dream. Alas! far different will it be for her!

And thus much can I foresee, that his coming will work danger to my

child. Alas! alas! though I see it impending, I know not how to prevent

it. Full well I marked the earnest gaze she unthinkingly cast on this

gallant youth. In that one look lay concentrated, feelings, deep,

subtle, unknown even to herself, for her thoughts were alone of

gratitude to her preservers. Though the fate of her I love, the pride

of my bosom, and child of my tribe, is hid from my sight, no sooner did

the bright stars illumine the Heavens, than I discovered and traced the

destined course of this stranger. Like the brilliant meteor which

darted across the firmament, unseen by any mortal eye but mine, as I

gazed but now above, I read that his course will be rapid and brilliant,

but boisterous and marked with blood, yet pure and unsullied by crime,

and leading to a high destiny. As I contemplate these features, calm,

and composed, I mark that he is incapable of those crimes which debase

human nature. Yes, he is worthy of her love. May the mighty spirit who

guards our tribe, watch over and protect the preserver of my child."

When the aged sybil had concluded these obscure predictions, uttered in

a low tone of voice, as she performed her task, she poured out a cooling

draught, which she tendered to Ivan, who gladly drank it off, and again

composed himself to sleep.

Thaddeus had but a short time before thrown himself on his rude couch,

and was fast wrapped in slumber, when Hagar took her seat by his

friend's side. Commencing in a low soothing chaunt, she continued

singing till she observed that his eyes were closely sealed in slumber.

The words she sang, or rather chaunted, were to the following effect;

but being in the Zingani language, which is known to few beyond their

own people, it is difficult to render their literal meaning; most of the

predictions she uttered whilst dressing Ivan's wound, were in the same

tongue, so that he remained perfectly ignorant of the fate she had

prophesied for him.

Spirits, I summon ye;

Spirits of air,

Come round this stranger,

Watch him with care.

Come, come ye misty shapes,

Whence far ye stray,

Shunning the glaring beams

Of the bright day.

Come from dark Egypt's land,

Spirits who dwell

'Neath the vast pyramids'

Deep hidden cell;

And who were worshipp'd in

Temples of old,

When priests of stern Apis

Men's fates foretold;

From whence in middle earth

Fearless ye dwell,

Through its fierce fires,

List to my spell.

Come whence the northern blasts

Furious blow,

Fly on your whiten'd wings

From frost and snow.

Ye, who 'neath ocean roam,

Through coral caves,

Or in the sparkling foam,

Sport o'er the waves:

Ye, who on tempests ride,

When the fierce blast,

Driving the hapless bark,

Rives the stout mast:

Ye whose loud shriek is heard

'Mid ocean's roar,

When the doom'd bark is hurl'd

On the stern shore:

Come, come, attend my will,

I summon all;

Haste through the elements,

Come at my call.

After a profound sleep of some hours, Ivan awoke with parched lips and a

feverish thirst, which he sought to allay with more of the same

refreshing beverage before presented to him. He begged for it, and on

taking the cup, could not help fancying that the hand which offered it,

was not that of the aged nurse who had previously tended him.

He spoke, to satisfy his doubts, but receiving no answer, and drowsiness

again returning, he turned on his couch to recompose himself to sleep,

when by the dim light which now issued from the lamp, he fancied that he

saw a light airy figure gliding from the tent. Yet fully aware of his

own feverish state, he attributed the idea to a delusion of the brain;

nor had he much time to think on the subject ere he again sank into a

sound and balmy slumber.

Volume 1, Chapter III.

Daylight was streaming brightly through the opening of the tent, when

Ivan was awakened by the cheerful voice of his host in conversation with

his friend, who had already risen. To their inquiries, he declared

himself well nigh, if not entirely recovered, since he was able to rise

and dress without feeling any inconvenience from his wound; nor did he

consider it necessary to call in again the assistance of Hagar, so

efficacious had been her remedies. He was soon, therefore, on his feet,

and accompanied Thaddeus and their host into the woods surrounding the

encampment; the latter carrying his gun, his constant companion he

informed them, in case any game should cross the path.

"So, my worthy host," said Thaddeus, "your camp has escaped an attack

from our enemies."

"I little feared them," answered the Gipsy, "as I considered that the

Count Erintoff, and his myrmidons lacked the courage to attack us,

however powerful his inclination to possess himself of my daughter, for

they knew that we should be prepared for them. Let them do their worst;

we, the outcasts of society, and despised of men, fear them not. Thus

it is, Sirs, in this unhappy country, where the haughty nobles trample

on, and oppress the soulless, and therefore helpless people; but let

them not suppose that we are of the same mould as those over whom they

tyrannise! No, if we cannot oppose them by open force, we can summon to

our aid our wit and stratagem.

"They have to learn also that a day of dreadful retribution is at hand;

that it will come, when least they expect it. The people will soon be

aware of their own strength, however ignorant they may now be of it, and

will then no longer submit to bear the chains of servitude, to which

they now patiently offer their necks. But your pardon, noble Sirs, you

yourselves are of the privileged order, and it may not please you to

hear your equals thus spoken of with disrespect; though I deem you both

very different in nature from those I have described, and consequently

know that I can trust in you, or I would not thus unburden my tongue."

Ivan was surprised to hear a man, whom he imagined to be a wild,

unlettered Gipsy, give utterance to ideas so similar to those which had

been passing through his own mind; but still unwilling to express his

own sentiments to a stranger, he merely assured him that what he had

said, gave no offence, either to his friend or to himself; and he

strengthened the assurance by warmly wringing the Gipsy's hard hand as

he spoke.

Thaddeus added, as he sauntered onwards, picking the wild flowers, that

he considered it a grievous pity, that there were not a few more honest

men like him in the world; as then there would be but little to complain

of.

"Sir," answered the Gipsy, "thousands of bosoms beat with impulses

similar to my own, and wait but for the time and opportunity to free

themselves from bondage. It will be a dreadful crisis, for what power

can place bounds to an infuriated and desperate populace, when once they

have received the frenzied impulse. Let those, who have been the first

cause of the insurrection, attempt to quell it; it would be as vain to

hope to check the mighty torrent rushing from the before pent up

glacier, when it has burst its icy bonds. But enough of this, Sirs. I

warn you that even now, a storm is gathering which will ere long burst

over this country; and may you be prepared to meet the danger when it

shall come. More I may not, dare not say, and thus much gratitude, and

the certainty that I may fully trust you, have impelled me to speak,

that you may benefit by the warning."

As they retraced their steps in silence towards the camp, Ivan's

thoughts reverted to the expressions which the Gipsy had let fall.

"And can there," he mused, "be a chance of the regeneration of this

country; when slavery shall no longer exist; and all men shall have

equal lights, and equal justice! Oh, how ardently do I wish that I

could be instrumental in bringing about so happy a consummation!"

On their arrival, they found a repast laid out in front of the tent,

consisting of wheat cakes, and bowls of milk. In the places assigned to

the two visitors, were laid bunches of wild flowers; that of Ivan being

distinguished by a wild rose, with the pure morning dew yet glistening

on its delicate tinted leaves.

"These flowers," said the Gipsy, "are my daughter's gift to her guests,

though she herself cannot appear before them."

They both expressed their thanks for the delicately marked attention,

and on finishing their simple, but plentiful meal, they mentioned their

wish to resume their journey to Tver.

The Gipsy chief endeavoured to prevail on them, in his rough, but open

and manly way, to tarry another day at his camp; but they excused

themselves on the plea of their servant being in waiting for them, and

Ivan declared himself fully capable of undergoing the fatigues of the

journey.

"If we may not then keep you longer with us," replied their hospitable

friend, "we will, at least, accompany you on your way as far as the

Volga; on the banks of which rapid stream, we are about to form our next

encampment, for after the occurrence of yesterday, I have deemed it

prudent to move at once."

The young men gladly accepted of his escort thus far on the road, and he

accordingly gave orders to strike the tents without delay. The order

was obeyed most expeditiously; men, women, and children moving about

with the greatest alacrity in its execution. Some dismantled the tents,

and rolled up their covers; others stowed their goods away in chests,

each undertaking his task according to his strength. The different rude

vehicles used to transport the baggage were thus quickly laden, and in

the course of a few minutes, on the spot where lately the skin-covered

village stood in tranquil repose, was to be seen a moving mass of noisy

human beings; the black marks of their fires on the grass being the sole

vestiges of their transitory abode. Two wild-looking boys, whose elf

locks hung down on their shoulders in tangled masses, and whose eyes

sparkled with intelligence, led forward the strangers' horses from a

sheltered spot, where they had been picqueted and well taken care of,

the chief of the tribe insisting himself on holding their stirrups,

while his guests mounted, as he repelled the wild-looking creatures, who

gathered round to perform the office.

Bestriding a strong built cob, which seemed fully able to perform a long

day's journey, he gave the signal, and the whole caravan was set in

motion, proceeding at as rapid a pace, as the horses could drag forward

the well piled baggage-carts.

The horsemen led the van, while Azila, the chief's wife, and some of the

more aged and feeble of the women, followed in a covered conveyance, of

rather better construction than those which conveyed the baggage; the

rest of the tribe proceeded on foot, assisting in guiding the carts and

baggage horses.

The men were in general tall, strong limbed, and dark looking, their

eyes sparkling with animation and intelligence while the wildness

prevailing in their dress and manner, with the look of careless

confidence in their countenances, shewed they were but little oppressed

with care. The women were dressed in apparel of the most gaudy and

fantastic colours, their free and independent gait and air, being very

different from that of the inhabitants of crowded cities; their dark

complexions set off by their flashing eyes, were handsome and

expressive; and their light elastic laugh resounded through the woods,

as jest succeeded jest amongst the party. Some beguiled the way by

singing wild and plaintive melodies, with rich and harmonious voices,

while others accompanied the singers on various instruments, which they

touched with considerable taste and execution.

The Gipsies have indeed full scope for the exercise of their musical

talents in the east of Europe, where they are invariably the chief

musicians at all feasts and festivals; whenever a fair or merry-meeting

takes place there, a number of them are to be found, and are always well

treated by the people.

As Ivan and Thaddeus rode past the several groups, the latter testified

the utmost respect for their leader's guests.

The party travelled on for several hours, halting only for a short time

to rest, till the fast-flowing stream of the majestic Volga first met

their view, rushing onward in its unimpeded course towards the east,

until it empties its mighty volume of waters into the far distant

Caspian. Here the order was given to encamp, and a fitting spot being

selected at a short distance from the river, the whole party were soon

actively engaged in unloading the waggons, and in erecting their frail

tenements.

"My worthy friend," said Ivan, addressing their host, "time urges us to

pursue our journey, and with many thanks for your hospitality, we must

bid you farewell."

"Well, Sirs," he replied, "since it is your wish to depart from us, I

must needs yield, though I would fain have persuaded you to remain

longer among us, to have seen more of the independent wild life we lead;

yet, ere you go, there is one here, who would again assure you of her

gratitude for your timely assistance in her rescue; and, for my part,

although it may seem presumptuous in me to make the offer, yet should

you ever be in difficulty or danger, let me know of it, and I may be

perhaps able to afford you more aid, than other friends in a higher

station may be willing to effect."

Her father summoned Azila, when the maiden advanced with timid and

bashful steps, followed at a short distance by the aged Hagar, who

tottered in her walk as she came forward.

Already had the strangers paid their adieus to the Gipsy's wife, when

turning round they perceived Azila standing near them, with her arms

crossed on her bosom, and her eyes cast on the ground.

"Adieu, noble Sirs," she exclaimed in faltering tones, while tears

glistened in her eyes, which shone more brightly than before, undimmed

by those eloquent vouchers of her feelings, "the remembrance of your

gallant bearing will ever dwell in the mind of the humble Gipsy girl,

and though she may never be able to shew any other mark of her

gratitude, receive all she has to give--her deep and sincere thanks."

She bowed her head to conceal her embarrassment and agitation, and the

old Sibyl then advancing, thus addressed the strangers: "May the mighty

spirit who watches over the people of the Zingani protect you from all

dangers, for well do I foresee that you will require his all potent aid.

The strong wind bloweth on a sudden, and none can tell whence it

ariseth; so will dangers come thickly around you, nor can you foresee

from what quarters they will spring, but like the bold mariner who

steers his storm-driven bark amid rocks and quicksands to a safe port,

be prepared to meet and escape them, and you have nought to fear. And

thou, noble youth with the dark eye," she said, turning towards Ivan,

"the cold suns of Russia shone not upon thy birth. Thou earnest from a

far distant land, and thither thou must return, where a high and

glorious destiny awaits thee; the way will be stormy and dangerous, but

hesitate not to follow it; for last night did I read thy fate in the

starry firmament above, and it leads to what thou most desirest. And

thou, gallant Sir," she said, addressing Thaddeus, "with the joyous eye,

and light laugh, the stars smiled when I read thy destiny, and it will

be happy. Fare ye well! ye may never see the aged Hagar more, but

remember her words. Farewell!"

While the Sibyl was uttering this prophetical rhapsody, with all the

fervour of action and tone, which her supposed inspiration gave her, the

tribe stood round in attentive and respectful silence; and even the

young men were so struck by her impressive manner, that they could not

resist paying more attention to her words than, perhaps, their judgment

would have allowed them to bestow at other times.

"Thanks for your predictions, good mother, and may they prove true,"

exclaimed Thaddeus, who was always ready to give a light turn to

anything which appeared more serious than suited his humour; "and now,

our worthy host, we must in truth delay no longer, and bid our last

adieu."

"Not yet, by your leave, Sirs," answered the Gipsy, "I will, at least,

shew you the road which will lead you more directly, and in less time

across the forest; which, without my aid, you would scarcely find."

"The longer we keep your company, the better shall we be pleased,"

replied Thaddeus; "and therefore we again most willingly accept of your

offer."

Ivan had remained absorbed in thought, at the conclusion of the Sibyl's

predictions; but suddenly rousing himself, he joined the Gipsy and his

friend; and as the young travellers rode off, they received the parting

salutations of the whole tribe, and paid their more marked adieus to

Azila.

Ere they lost sight of the encampment, Ivan descried the maiden's light

form, watching their departing steps, and, for many a day after, did her

graceful figure, and lovely countenance dwell in his recollection.

Volume 1, Chapter IV.

tention, which the noble mind of the generous Russian could conceive,

was lavished on his unfortunate prisoner, with the benevolent view of

banishing the recollection that he was an exile and a captive.

Although he expressed his gratitude for these courtesies, they proved of

little avail in overcoming his wretchedness; and, for some time, he

refused to give his parole to his captor, that he would not attempt to

escape. At length, the patriotic old noble ceased to entertain hopes

that his beloved country could ever regain her liberty, after the final

and complete discomfiture of her heroic sons under the walls of Warsaw.

With a heavy heart, he gave the required promise; and bowed down with

grief at his country's loss of freedom, he abandoned all wish of ever

regaining his own. He thus lived on a hopeless exile from that land,

where his forefathers had dwelt in honour and power for so many ages,

and where all the affections of his heart were concentrated, save his

love for his only son, now, the sole link which held the chain of his

existence. On him he lavished all his care, and the boy returned his

father's affection with all the ardour of youth.

Although the Russian noble had rescued his friend from the rigorous

sentence of banishment to Siberia, the whole of his interest and

influence could not save from confiscation the property of one who had

taken so prominent a part in every attempt of his countrymen to throw

off the Russian yoke; so that, with the exception of a small pittance

allowed him, he was entirely dependant on his generous host.

The old Polish noble, broken-spirited, and humbled as he was, hoarded

his slender means to the utmost, that, although dependant himself on his

friend, his son Thaddeus might never owe aught to any one but himself.

During his son's boyhood, he devoted his entire attention to his

education, and it was a solace to the old man to find him so well worthy

of his care; and when he had attained a proper age, he sent him to the

military college at St. Petersburg, where he gave him a sufficient

allowance from his accumulated savings, to enable him to support that

standing in society which he considered his birth demanded.

He would willingly indeed have sent him to any other country for his

education, in preference to that of the oppressors of Poland; but he

found, on application, that his son could not be allowed to quit Russia;

and disdaining any other than a military life for him, he was compelled

to take advantage of the best which the country afforded.

With a father's doting fondness, he hoped that his son might, with his

talents and his sword, some day carve out a way to distinction; and

perhaps, too, a latent hope existed in his breast that he might aid in

the restoration of his native land.

From the time since Thaddeus resided under the roof of his father's

Russian friend, he became a favourite with every member of the family;

and when he mixed more in the world, his pleasing manners and generous

disposition caused his society to be much sought after by all of his own

age and rank. No one, however, appeared to have gained so much of his

regard as the young Ivan Galetzoff, who had won his affection without

the slightest effort; but there was something in the bold, independent,

and almost haughty manners of Ivan, which made Thaddeus at first regard

him with more interest than he bestowed on the rest of his companions

who were younger than himself.

Ivan was nearly two years his junior, which, at that time of life, often

makes a great difference in a youth's standing at school or college.

From his first arrival at college, Ivan Galetzoff had appeared to keep

aloof from the friendship of his companions, though he joined, and

excelled in all athletic sports and exercises. He was courteous to all;

but his cold and reserved behaviour prevented the greater number of his

companions from making advances in his confidence or friendship.

Thaddeus, by many trivial attentions to the solitary youth, was the

first to overcome this reserve, and the latter seemed to feel grateful

for his kindness. They had been as yet, however, but little in each

other's society, until Thaddeus was seized with a severe illness, when

Ivan attended on him with fraternal care, ministering to all his wants,

and scarcely ever leaving his side.

From that period was to be dated their firm friendship, which, though

warm and sincere, could not thaw the reserve with which Ivan always

guarded the subject of his family and connexions; and when any sought to

question him, he would turn away with a haughty and angry air, so that

even Thaddeus remained nearly as ignorant as before of his friend's

history. Every day, however, seemed more closely to cement the

friendship of the two young men, until they were constantly together,

supporting each other on every occasion of need. On one point, however,

they were dissimilar in taste; while Thaddeus's love of gaiety caused

him to seek society, Ivan, on all occasions, shunned it, devoting

himself with so much perseverance and energy to his studies and military

exercises, that he was qualified to quit college at the same period with

his friend.

Ivan Galetzoff was generally supposed at college to be the son of the

Baron Galetzoff; but as the young man never spoke of him as his father,

and indeed avoided, as much as possible, mentioning his name, there were

some doubts entertained on the subject; and his proud and retiring

manners were, therefore, considered to result from the galling feelings

caused by a supposed stigma on his birth. The chateau of the Baron

Galetzoff lay a short distance from Moscow; and in the neighbourhood of

that city was also the residence of the generous noble who had been the

protector of Thaddeus's father; but there was no intercourse between the

two families, the Baron living entirely secluded from the world.

The Baron Galetzoff was in truth, a fierce unpolished soldier, who had

frequently distinguished himself in the wars of Russia against the Turks

and the inhabitants of the Caucasus, as much by his unexampled cruelty,

as by his bravery and military talents.

To his own soldiers he was overbearing and tyrannical, and he seemed to

enjoy inflicting barbarities on the miserable foes who fell into his

power; while to his dependants and the serfs on his estates, he was

morose and hard-hearted; so that none could love, and all feared and

hated him. His compeers disliked and shunned him, while he, on his

part, seemed equally to disregard their censure or applause.

He had now retired for some time past from military command, and had

since then immured himself in his own chateau, within which the stranger

never obtained admittance.

When on several occasions Ivan had been tempted by Thaddeus to leave its

sombre halls, and to mix in society, nothing could ever be gleaned from

him respecting the internal arrangements of the family, notwithstanding

all the attempts which were made to discover the secrets of the mansion.

Some of the more charitably disposed neighbours concluded that the

Baron's temper had been soured by domestic affliction, as it was

reported that he had lost by sudden death a beautiful wife, whom he

tenderly loved, and her child, which had mysteriously disappeared;

others however declared, that his brow had always been clouded by the

same dark lines.

In spite of these various rumours, all concurred in the opinion, that

the generous qualities of the young Ivan almost made amends for the

Baron's defects; but they deplored his fate in being obliged to live

with a person of so opposite a character. The serfs on the estate loved

him almost to adoration, every one of whom was ready to lay down his

life in his service.

Ivan had ever regarded the Baron more with fear and awe, than with those

feelings of affection and respect, which a son owes to a parent.

There was however, one inmate of the chateau, on whom he lavished all

the warmth and tenderness of a fond and affectionate heart. She was the

one bright star pure and lustrous, towards which he gazed through the

cloudy atmosphere of his existence. From his earliest days he had

remembered that lovely countenance bending over him with a soft and

enraptured gaze. Those bright eyes which looked lustreless on others,

on him always shed a benign and soothing light. He had long ceased to

call her mother, for he had once done so in his childish days, when with

a deep drawn sigh, and a gush of tears, she pressed him closer to her

bosom, and bade him never again to use that name: the child could not

however be taught to call her by any other, and he would therefore avoid

all mention of her to any one.

She had moreover succeeded in teaching him to refrain from paying her

any attention or notice when, by chance, they appeared together in the

Baron's presence, and the lady's greatest care seemed to be to appear

equally regardless of the child.

How delightful was it, as a reward for this apparent estrangement, to

commune during the Baron's absence, with her, when he would listen to

every word she uttered, and hear with delight the soft music of her

voice. Then would she teach him a strange language, which none other

around them spoke, and they would converse in it for hours together

secure from interruption, until the child spoke it as fluently as

Russian. He had never inquired, in what country the language he had

learned was spoken, it was sufficient for him to know, that it was given

to him by the being he most revered and loved, and he cherished his

knowledge as a sacred gift which it would be profanation to impart to

any other mortal. He always thought in that language, and in it he

always poured forth his soul to the great Dispenser of good, for he

looked upon it as the language of adoration; and as it had become his

medium of communication with her he loved most on earth, he felt it as

the most fit to adore Him who reigns in Heaven.

Upon her he looked as upon a being with an existence separate from and

above all the rest of the world. In her presence, his thoughts became

more holy, his aspirations loftier; his breast would swell proudly, as

she oft described to him the noble deeds of gallant warriors fighting

for the liberty of their country, until he ardently longed to emulate

their actions; and thus were early implanted in his breast a sincere

love of liberty, and a hatred of despotism, with a contempt of every

danger which might beset him in the pursuit of the fame he thirsted

after.

These sentiments had lain almost dormant within him, during the

uneventful life which he had hitherto led, and it was only, when at

college, he was witness to any tyrannical act of his own companions over

their inferiors, that they burst forth; on such occasions he would

always step forward in aid of the weakest and injured party.

He had so early been taught to conceal his feelings and opinions within

his own bosom, that none of his companions were aware of their force or

tendency, and had the officers of the college become acquainted with

them, a decisive check would have been given to his advancement.

As far back as his memory could carry him, no event of importance had

occurred to him: ere he was sent to college his education had been

placed under the direction of a very worthy but most unintellectual

priest, who did not attempt to give him more than the first general

rudiments of knowledge; so that from an early age he was accustomed to

depend much on his own powers to attain what he sought after.

At times the Baron seemed to take an interest in his welfare, and in the

progress of his studies, but he was very uncertain and variable in his

behaviour towards the boy; sometimes treating him with the greatest

severity, at others, with indulgence; but never with that kindness or

justice which wins the love and respect of youth.

He would frequently summon him to attend at the usual field sports of

the country, in which he soon learnt to excel; but when the boy could

make his escape, he would prefer wandering by himself in the woods with

his gun, far more occupied with his own contemplations, than in the

pursuit of game; or at other times he would urge his light skiff over

the surface of a neighbouring lake, then resting on his oars, would sit

gazing on the waters, his thoughts wandering to regions far away.

When safe from the Baron's detection, he would hasten to a rendezvous

with his beautiful guardian and friend, and spend hours of delightful

intercourse in her society.

Reclining at her feet, his recollection would revert faintly and

indistinctly to scenes of a far distant, undefinable period, when he

fancied he could recall to memory a picture of the bright and sunny

mountains of a soft and genial clime--a cottage on the green hill's

side, in front a clear and rapid stream, bounding from rod to rock, and

sparkling joyously on its way to the blue distant sea beyond; the trees

of varied foliage waving in the breeze, and gay-coloured flowers filling

the air with sweet perfumes. Then would appear, before the vision of

his mind, a figure of commanding stature, with noble features, clad in

glittering armour, who ofttimes had carried him in his arms. He

remembered the very shape of his shield, and the dazzling brightness of

his sword, as it was wielded before his eyes in the rays of the sun.

Then a confused tumult--the loud roar of cannon--the rattle of

musketry--the clashing of swords--red blood flowing around--the wild

shouts of men striving in deadly combat--the shrieks of terror-stricken

women--the anguish-wrought groans of the wounded and dying--rushed

across his recollection.

After those scenes, if such had ever been presented to his sight, the

tablet of his memory, for a lapse of time, remained a complete blank,

and his first clear remembrance was of the Chateau of the Baron

Galetzoff, when he found himself loved and petted by its inmates, and

even treated by its haughty Lord with as much kindness as his capricious

nature would allow, and with much more than he seemed to bestow on any

other human being.

Once only had Ivan mentioned the obscure recollection of his infant

years to his fair protectress, but she had, in a passionate flood of

tears, charged him, as he valued her love and happiness, never to allude

to the subject again.

With advancing years, the visions faded gradually from his mind, or if

he thought of them, he considered them but as a dream of childhood, and

believed himself in reality to be the son of the tyrannical Baron

Galetzoff.

Volume 1, Chapter V.

We left the serf Karl urging on the weary animal which drew his master's

baggage-cart towards Tver, and there he arrived without any other

accident than a thorough drenching from the same storm which they had

escaped under shelter of the Gipsy's tent. He proceeded straightway to

the best inn the town possessed, which was kept by one of the despised

race of Israel, who are the principal innkeepers throughout the country.

The inn in question was very inferior to those houses of entertainment

which most of the larger cities of Russia now afford; but rapid

improvements in all the conveniences for travelling have lately taken

place.

The lower floor of the house consisted of two divisions; the one

appropriated to the horses and equipages of travellers, the other to the

culinary department of the establishment, as also to the accommodation--

at that precise moment--of a motley assemblage of human beings,

soldiers, mechanics, carriers, wagoners, postillions, all talking at the

same time in their guttural language; smoking, drinking, and hallowing

to each other, with loud laughter and jokes; yet the ear was never

shocked by the profane oath, or other evidences of the fierce quarrels,

which too often occur amongst a mixture of people of similar degree in

other countries.

The upper part of the building was laid out in rooms for the

accommodation of the better order of travellers. One of larger

dimensions than the rest formed the dining-room--this was completely

impregnated with the fumes of tobacco; the rest consisted of sleeping

apartments.

As Karl drove into the court-yard, he seemed to have roused himself to a

sense of his own importance, and the responsibility with which he was

entrusted, for he endeavoured to assume an air of authority. "Help,

here! help!" he exclaimed as the wheels of his cart rattled over the

stones, "help here, to carry the baggage of my noble masters up-stairs!

Does no one come? Help here, help, halloo!"

His calls for assistance were at last heeded by a being very similar to

himself in dress and features. "Halloo, villain!" cried Karl, as the

man approached, "can you not hear when a Christian calls? Here, help me

to carry this baggage, will you?"

"Who art thou that speakest thus to me?" demanded the other; "art thou

better than I am myself, knave? Art thou not a slave as well as I?"

"Ay, ay, truly," answered Karl, "but I serve a noble master, whilst thou

art but the slave of a base-born Hebrew innkeeper!"

"There thou liest!" exclaimed the indignant ostler, for such was his

office. "I serve the innkeeper truly, and if he did not oblige me to

observe his fasts, as well as those of our own holy church, the service

would not be so bad; but I am no slave of his. I am the born serf of

the noble Baron Ogstrofsty; he has let me out for hire, to the old Jew

Levi, to pay off an old score, and when I have worked it out, I shall

return to my own master."

"That alters the case," replied Karl, rubbing his forehead, that he

might more clearly understand the knotty difference, "so now let us be

friends, and lend me your aid."

"With all my heart, now that thou art civil," said the ostler.

Suiting the action to the word, after fastening the horse's bridle to a

ring in the wall, he assisted in taking the luggage from the cart, and

led the way up a rude flight of steps, on the landing of which they were

met by the landlord Levi, who had been eagerly looking out, in the hope

of making considerable gain by his new guests.

"My noble master, the son of the Baron Galetzoff, and my noble master's

friend, sent me on before them to announce their coming, and to engage

beds and supper. They will be here anon, so make ready for their

reception: their baggage must be placed in their room that I may unpack

it, for they will be rather wet, I fancy, when they arrive."

"Your noble masters shall be well served," answered Levi, bowing rather

to the young nobles' portmanteaus, than to the bearer of them. "This

way, this way!"

And he conducted Karl into a room, boasting of but little comfort. To

him, however, it appeared a luxurious apartment, and he immediately

commenced unpacking the luggage. That done, he locked the door, and

descended with his fellow-serf to look after his horse, and to attend to

his own creature comforts.

Seating himself at the long table in the common eating-room, among the

strange variety of guests, he applied himself with unwearied energy to

the business of mastication, washing down his food with deep draughts of

quass; and so completely was he engaged in this, to him, most grateful

occupation, that he paid but little attention to what was going on

around him.

When his appetite was at length thoroughly satisfied, he pushed the

empty dish from before him, with a sigh, and took another long and

steady draught from the jug of quass. He then resigned himself to the

enjoyment of his sensations of satisfaction, when his eye-lids began to

fall; re-opening slightly, they closed again, his head nodded for a

minute, when he shook it to rouse himself, but it soon again fell slowly

down, and he dropped fast asleep, resting his arms and shoulders on the

table.

Some time had elapsed, when he was aroused by the entrance of two men,

who seated themselves close to him, one of them pushing rudely against

him as he took his seat at the table. The movement made Karl raise his

head, and seeing two serving men in the liveries apparently of a

nobleman, he endeavoured, for the sake of good fellowship, to join in

their conversation; but he found it impossible to sustain his head

without the support of the table. He listened, however, for some time

to what they were saying, till their words grew indistinct and

meaningless to his comprehension, and Karl sunk again into sleep.

"Well," said one of the new-comers, "this is a pretty business we've

been engaged in. First, the certainty of being knocked on the head by

the Gipsies, had they caught us, of which there was every risk; then,

the very clear reality of finding ourselves knocked down by two wild

horsemen, who seemed to have risen out of the forest, for no other

purpose than to interfere where they had no business; and then, because

we could not prevent their getting up to the Count, when we did our

best, to be rewarded with a thrashing and a load of abuse; and finally,

to be sent, with our broken heads, scampering across the country to look

after these gentlemen. And after all, what is the cause of all this

fuss?--a woman--a girl--a piece of painted flesh! a baggage, no better

than those who go singing about the streets of Moscow. So coy and

modest too! Why the Count is mad to make such a disturbance about her.

It makes me thirsty to think of it--hand the quass, Kruntz."

"You may well say that," answered his companion, "for I never saw our

master in such a taking before. He swears he will have deadly vengeance

against those who prevented him from carrying off the girl; and he says

that he should know them again, whether he met them in this world or the

next. I don't think he has much chance of meeting them in a better

place, do you, Groff?"

"No, no," answered the first speaker; "our master has played too many

odd tricks on earth for that. He may know them, perhaps, for he had

time to see their faces; but it is too hard of him to expect that we

should; for I could have sworn, when they came so suddenly upon us, that

they were the wild horsemen of the woods."

"They may be devils themselves, and still not escape our master's

vengeance," replied Kruntz; "and, as for the girl, he will entrap her

before long, or he will not act like himself. If he cannot do it by

open force, he has numerous secret means to bring about his ends."

"That I'll be sworn he has," said the other; "and so long as he pays me

well, I am ready to serve him, though I do not much relish so hard a

ride as he sent us, in a storm, on a fool's errand. Yet if I could find

out who the two young gallants were, who gave us such confoundedly hard

blows, I should like to see how they felt under like treatment. Some

more vodka, Kruntz, that's the stuff; now for our pipes. Drown care

first, and then smoke him dry, and he won't trouble you; that's the way

for honest men like us to live."

These two worthies, after enjoying their tobacco, left the room. They

will be easily recognised as the myrmidons of the Count Erintoff, sent

forward in great haste by their master, to trace the horsemen, who had

arrested him in his flight with the Gipsy maid--a circumstance the more

embittering to his pride, after his success in securing her person. He

had also dispatched others in an opposite direction, with the same

orders.

Karl at length awoke to find that the shades of evening had already

enveloped the town in obscurity; and he rushed out in great dismay, at

having overslept himself, to endeavour to gain some tidings of his young

master and his friend; but in vain--he could hear nothing of them. The

honest fellow now became greatly alarmed, making inquiries of every body

he met, till finding that his master had certainly not yet arrived in

Tver, he lay down, to await his coming, on one of the wooden benches in

the eating-room, when he very soon again fell into a sleep--not the less

sound from his deep potations of quass--and did not awake till long

after the morning had dawned, and the inmates of the hotel were astir.

He started up, rubbing his eyes, and looking around to convince himself

where he was; when recollecting the events of the previous day, he

instantly set off to gain intelligence of his master. With eager

agitation, he questioned all who came in his way, high and low; but most

people pushed the lowly unshorn serf aside, without deigning to answer

him; some ridiculed him, and bade him seek a new master, if he had lost

his old one, for he would never find him again. Among those whom he had

casually addressed, was one of the two individuals, whose conversation

he had partly overheard when sitting by his side on the previous

evening.

"You are inquiring for your master and his friend," asked Groff; "two

young men, you say, whom you parted from about twenty versts off; as

they rode by themselves through the forest." By thus interrogating the

honest, but simple Karl, he learned every particular he sought to know

respecting Ivan Galetzoff and his companion.

Poor Karl spent the long day in great tribulation, walking to and fro in

front of the inn, inquiring of everybody who arrived from the direction

of St. Petersburg, if they had overtaken his master and fellow

traveller; but obtaining no intelligence, he proceeded along the road

for some miles in the hope of meeting them; again unsuccessful, he

returned in case they should have passed by some other way. Towards

evening, when he perceived the lost cavaliers approaching, his joy knew

no bounds.

Running to meet them, and ere they had time to dismount, he seized their

hands and covered them with kisses. He gave their horses in charge to

the ostler, and conducted them to their room, where they were glad to

rest, after the excitement and fatigues of the preceding day.

Their arrival had been observed by others with equal satisfaction to

that felt by honest Karl, though arising from very dissimilar motives.

Groff and his companion concealed within a doorway, watched them as they

dismounted, and being fully satisfied of their identity, both from

Karl's description, and their own recollection of the wild horsemen, by

whom they had been felled in the forest, they immediately mounted their

horses to convey their information to the Count.

Ivan felt but little inconvenience from his wound; the aged Hagar having

treated it so efficaciously. He was, therefore, enabled to continue on

the journey to Moscow, early the next morning; notwithstanding the

numerous eloquent reasons urged by their considerate landlord, to

persuade them to delay it.

They crossed the magnificent Volga, by a bridge of boats. This mighty

current rushing onward in its course, divides Europe from Asia; it is

navigable well nigh to its very source--a distance of four thousand

miles; and after bathing the walls of Astracan, finishes its career in

the far distant Caspian. Its banks are peopled by the warlike tribes of

Cossacks, who so unrelentingly harassed the skirts of the French army,

during their disastrous retreat from Russia. On its noble waters were

being transported rich cargoes of grain, the produce of its fertile

banks, in boats of various sizes, rigged with a single but lofty mast,

supporting an immense sail, and a long rudder, projecting far beyond the

stern, which is admirably adapted to guide them, when passing the

rapids.

The villages through which the travellers' route lay, were forlorn and

miserable; being generally the property of the Seigneurs, and occupied

by their serfs. They consisted of a single long street, lined on either

side with cottages built of rough logs: those of the more affluent being

formed of the same materials, hewn and squared into more regular shape.

Their gable ends projecting far into the street, discovered occasionally

patches of rude carving; small holes perforated in the walls serving as

windows.

In many spots along the road, were small chapels with pictures of the

Panagia (the Russian appellation of the Virgin Mary,) or of some of the

multitudinous saints in their calendar; these were the especial objects

of Karl's devotion, as he bowed his head to them, and crossed himself

all over with the greatest reverence. They overtook many teams of small

carts, sometimes forty together; carrying tallow, hides, and hemp to the

cities, to be exchanged for merchandise, with which they return to the

interior: their drivers were generally lying asleep on their goods, one

alone at the head of the train, conducting the team. As evening closed

in, they halted, forming bivouacs by the way-side, and their cheering

fires served as beacons for the wayfarer.

Although but a few years have glided by, since the period to which we

allude, great changes have taken place on the highway between St.

Petersburg and Moscow. Not only has the road been macadamised, and

become one of the best in Europe, but elegant bridges have been thrown

across the rivers and streams; handsome, well-conducted post-houses have

been established on the road, and public conveyances traverse it

regularly.

It was towards the evening of the second day of their departure from

Tver, that they approached the Phoenix-like, the resuscitated, holy, and

ancient city of Moscow.

The rays of the setting sun shed a glittering lustre on the innumerable

gilded domes, steeples and spires, of its churches, shooting upwards

from amid the dark masses of habitations, like trees of gold in a forest

of enchantment. Each tower being surmounted by the emblem of Christian

faith, resplendent with gold, and connected by golden chains, which

shone more brightly as they waved in the breeze.

This gorgeous scene breaking suddenly on their sight, arrested their

progress; the stately city, extending over a wide space of undulating

ground, encompassed by woody and cultivated heights--the hundred-crested

Kremlin rising majestically above all--the magnificent palaces,

churches, and convents, with their cupolas and domes of blue, and white,

and gold, giving it an aspect of oriental magnificence.

Karl, animated by a spirit of devotion, threw himself from the cart, and

prostrated himself on the soil, in adoration, as he beheld the Jerusalem

of Russia--the city sanctified in their hearts, and so beloved by every

true Muscovite. Having completed the ceremony, with innumerable

genuflexions and crossings, much to his own satisfaction, he drove on to

regain his master and Thaddeus, who not being imbued with the same

feeling of respect for the City of the Czars, and having often viewed

the spectacle, had, after a slight pause at the grandeur of the scene,

proceeded on their road.

After traversing many of the irregular, winding streets of the city, the

moment arrived when they were to part, to hasten to their respective

homes. Exchanging pledges to meet again as soon as circumstances would

permit, they then started off in opposite directions.

Volume 1, Chapter VI.

Missing the society of his lively companion, a shade of gloom overspread

the handsome features of Ivan; his mind being thus thrown back upon

itself, the sombre scenery through which he passed, as he drew nigh to

the end of his journey, on the day after he quitted his friend,

contributed to augment the melancholy bias of his thoughts.

On either side of his path arose a thick and dark wood, without a single

opening vista, or a green glade; every part seemed impenetrable to joy

and gladness. The habitations of the miserable and oppressed serfs were

closed; their inmates having early retired to rest, after the

ill-requited toils of the day.

Occasionally, however, he fell in with labourers returning to their

homes, who, as they recognised the son of their seigneur, saluted him

with respect and a look of affection. In an instant, the cloud on his

brow would be dissipated as he returned their greetings, and offered a

kind word to each, either in inquiries after their families, or other

good-natured remarks, by which the unsophisticated peasant's heart is so

easily gained.

On approaching the chateau, even such signs of life as had previously

appeared ceased to exist, and all around wore, if possible, a still more

gloomy and dreary aspect.

He unconsciously shortened his rein; that action sufficed to betray that

he could not regard the Baron in the light of a father. So far from

having an anxious desire to hasten to receive his welcome, his languid

pace proved his reluctance to enter sooner than necessary into the

presence of the fierce lord of that dark domain. His heart was a blank

as he drew up at the principal entrance.

No group of bustling and pleased domestics stood ready to receive him on

his return, after a long absence; no fond mother or affectionate

sisters, to rush forward with outstretched arms, to welcome him in a

loving embrace, or to surround him as they gazed with eager and

delighted eyes, their repeated inquiries lost amid the confusion of

anxious tongues. All within was as silent as without, a solitary

household serf alone presenting himself at Ivan's summons; while, after

considerable delay, another of the same class appeared, to lead his

horse to the stables; both, however, greeted him with welcome smiles.

His heart now beat with eagerness to hasten to the presence of the

revered and much loved being so mysteriously connected with him, for

well he knew how anxiously she was awaiting his arrival. At the same

time, a feeling of dread came over him, of misfortune having befallen

her; she might be on her death-bed, perhaps--horrible thought!--extended

a cold and lifeless corpse! Lost to him for ever, and her important

secret known to none but her God!

This idea became almost insupportable. He dared not make any inquiries

respecting her of the domestic. To visit her, ere he had appeared to

the Baron, who he was informed had desired his presence immediately on

his arrival, would have been attended by results equally injurious to

her as to himself.

Without delay, therefore, he was ushered into the apartment where the

Baron was sitting, who neither rose as the young man advanced to pay his

respects, or relaxed the cold stern cast of his features.

The Baron Galetzoff seemed a man long past the prime of life, on whom

age had laid its wintry marks, but still retaining the air and firm port

of a soldier. His stature was rather under than above the middle

height, and his figure full and unwieldy. His features might have been

handsome in his youth, though now they were disfigured by an habitual

scowl on his forehead, and a deep cut reaching from the left eye to the

lower part of the ear; his cold grey sunken eyes retreating, as if from

observation, under the shade of his coarse overhanging brows. His

grizzled moustache was long and untrimmed; and this, when excited by

passion--no uncommon occurrence, unfortunately for his dependants--or

labouring under uncertainty as to the success of his projects, he was

wont to twist and pluck at.

"So, Sir," he exclaimed, in a tone of severity, as Ivan approached the

table, "you have loitered on your way, methinks; else why this delay in

your arrival? Your duty and obedience would have been better proved by

a more rapid journey. How did it thus happen, Sir?"

Ivan explained that the delay arose from a violent storm, which had

obliged him to take shelter under the tent of a Gipsy; but he did not

choose to hazard a relation of the rest of his adventures.