f the life of that
extraordinary adventurer. The Count Benyowsky was a Polish nobleman,
who for some political reason was banished by the Russian Government to
one of its settlements in the extreme eastern part of Siberia, whence it
seemed impossible for him ever to find his way back to Europe. The
governor of the town in which the Count was compelled to reside had a
daughter, young and lovely, who had conceived a warm affection for him,
which appears to have been fully returned. Through the means of this
young lady he was able to gain information as to everything which was
taking place. He heard, among other things, that two large Russian
ships were expected at the neighbouring port. He had long been looking
out for the means of making his escape from Siberia.

Here was an opportunity. None but a man of great boldness and energy
would, however, have considered it one. He was a prisoner in a
fortified town; it contained a considerable number of his countrymen,
but they were prisoners strictly watched. Still he was determined to
make the attempt. He set to work and gained over a hundred men to
assist in his dangerous undertaking. By some means they were able to
provide themselves with arms. The governor's fair daughter undertook to
obtain the keys of the fortress, provided her father's life was spared.
The adventurers found it impossible to make their escape without first
mastering the garrison. The conspirators were mustered, and were ready
for the enterprise. The young lady brought her lover the keys. Her
last words were, "Do not injure my father."

"Of course not, if he makes no resistance," was the Count's answer.

The gates were opened; the conspirators rushed in. The old governor
was, however, not a man to yield without a struggle. Putting himself at
the head of some of his men, he endeavoured to keep back the assailants.
Again and again he charged them, calling on the troops to rally round
him. It was evident to the Count and his companions that if he were
allowed to live their undertaking would fail. He therefore, pressed on
by numbers, was killed, with all who stood by him.

The adventurers, now putting all who opposed them to the sword, became
complete masters of the place, and without difficulty obtained
possession also of the two ships which had just arrived. A sufficient
number of officers and seamen were found to navigate the ships, and,
having provisioned them for a long voyage, the C