For the first time in his life the hitherto insolent starosta felt that he lacked counsel in his head, strength in undertaking, and decision in danger; and the next day he summoned to counsel Bützov, Braun, and some of the most important officers.
It was decided to remain in Taurogi and await tidings from Warsaw.
But Braun from that council went straight to another, to one with Anusia.
Long, long did they deliberate together. At last Braun came out with face greatly moved; but Anusia rushed like a storm to Olenka,—
“Olenka, the time has come!” cried she, on the threshold. “We must flee!”
“When?” asked the valiant girl, growing a little pale, but rising at once in sign of immediate readiness.
“To-morrow, to-morrow! Braun has the command, and Sakovich will sleep in the town, for Pan Dz
