I have myself no
desire to form a friendship with those rough barbarians."
"If the Empress of Russia hates you, she hates Krimgirai equally.
Russia hates every thing that is noble and true; she hates
enlightenment and cultivation. Russia hates Krimgirai, because he
has civilized his people; because he has changed his rough hordes of
men into a mighty army of brave warriors; because he governs his
kingdom with humanity, and is, at the same time, a father to his
people and a scourge to his enemies. Krimgirai hates Russia as he
hates every thing that is wicked, and vicious, and cruel; therefore
he is willing to stand by your side against Russia, with an army of
six thousand men, and, if you wish it, to invade Russia."
"And what are the conditions which the Khan demands for this
assistance?"
"He wishes you to pay his soldiers as you pay your own."
"And for himself?"
"For himself, he begs that you will send him a physician who can
cure him of a painful but not dangerous disease. Further, he begs
for your confidence and friendship."
"Which I gladly give him!" said the king, gayly. "But tell me one
other thing. Has the Khan not yet become reconciled to the Grand
Sultan?"
"Sire, the sultan feels that he cannot spare his brave Khan; he made
an overture, which Krimgirai gladly accepted.
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