Page:Julian Niemcewicz - Notes of my Captivity in Russia.djvu/89

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ITINERARY OF THE PRISONERS.
61

most severe treatment, and that everything depended upon my candour in disclosing all the secrets of the last revolution, and naming its actors. “Our revolution,” said I, “has no secrets. Poland was laid waste, sacked, pillaged, and divided; we made a last effort to save her, it has proved to be an unsuccessful one; but at least, nobody can say that we have in a cowardly manner abandoned her. The names of those who took an active part in this event are known, and vengeance will not have great difficulty in finding them and striking its victims. But if there are citizens who, without being known, have assisted the common cause with their personal efforts or fortunes, believe me, Madam, that even the menace of death could not compel me to betray their names.” “I pity you, Sir.” “Your are exceedingly kind, Madam.” Thus terminated this conversation and visit. I forgot to say, that while I was going along with Titow to the château, he said to me: “By Jove! I never expected that you would be sent to such a good place.” As he said nothing more,