CHAPTER VII.
UNDER MONGOL YOKE Amid the wreck of principalities there was one state remaining erect.
Novgorod was defended by its remoteness and its uninviting climate.
The Mongols had not thought it worth while to attempt the reduction of the warlike state, so the stalwart Republic stood alone amid the general ruin.

All the rest were under the Tatar yoke.

Of Princes there were none.

All had either been slaughtered or fled.

Proud _boyars_ saw their wives and daughters the slaves of barbarians.
Delicate women who had always lived in luxury were grinding corn and preparing coarse food for their terrible masters.
After the conquest was completed the Mongol sovereign exacted only three things from the prostrate state--homage, tribute, and a military contingent when required.