But next day Taras Bulba had a conference with the new Koschevoi as to the method of exciting the Cossacks to some enterprise.

The Koschevoi, a shrewd and sensible Cossack, who knew the Zaporozhtzi thoroughly, said at first, "Oaths cannot be violated by any means"; but after a pause added, "No matter, it can be done.

We will not violate them, but let us devise something.

Let the people assemble, not at my summons, but of their own accord.

You know how to manage that; and I will hasten to the square with the chiefs, as though we know nothing about it." Not an hour had elapsed after their conversation, when the drums again thundered.