He was prepared to die,
yet not a single sign of weakness escaped him.
The spectators, waiting around the square, as well as Feofar-Khan's
body-guard, to whom this execution was only one of the attractions,
were eagerly expecting it. Then, their curiosity satisfied,
they would rush off to enjoy the pleasures of intoxication.
The Emir made a sign. Michael was thrust forward by his
guards to the foot of the terrace, and Feofar said to him,
"You came to see our goings out and comings in, Russian spy.
You have seen for the last time. In an instant your eyes
will be forever shut to the day."
Michael's fate was to be not death, but blindness;
loss of sight, more terrible perhaps than loss of life.
The unhappy man was condemned to be blinded.
However, on hearing the Emir's sentence Michael's heart did not
grow faint. He remained unmoved, his eyes wide open, as though
he wished to concentrate his whole life into one last look.
To entreat pity from these savage men would be useless, besides,
it would be unworthy of him. He did not even think of it.
His thoughts were condensed on his mission, which had apparently
so completely failed; on his mother, on Nadia, whom he should never
more see! But he let no sign appear of the emotion he felt.
Then, a feeling of vengeance to be accomplished came over him.
"Ivan," said he, in a stern voice, "Ivan the Traitor, the last
menace of my eyes shall be for you!"
Ivan Ogareff shrugged his shoulders.
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