He is not Ostap, but he is a dashing warrior, nevertheless." The army decided to march straight on the city of Dubno, which, rumour said, contained much wealth and many rich inhabitants.

The journey was accomplished in a day and a half, and the Zaporozhtzi appeared before the city.

The inhabitants resolved to defend themselves to the utmost extent of their power, and to fight to the last extremity, preferring to die in their squares and streets, and on their thresholds, rather than admit the enemy to their houses.

A high rampart of earth surrounded the city; and in places where it was low or weak, it was strengthened by a wall of stone, or a house which served as a redoubt, or even an oaken stockade.

The garrison was strong and aware of the importance of their position.