Chapter I: Introduction

As the early history of Poland is almost unknown in England, it may be necessary to state that this little poem is merely a poetical version of a real event, the memory of which is dear to every Polish heart. Wanda (the daughter of the great founder of Cracow), having really devoted herself to death for the sake of her country, under the circumstances and from the motives which are here assigned.

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DRAMATIS PERSONÆ.

WANDA, _Queen of Poland_. LESJA, } HALINA, } _her Maidens_. RZEWNA, } LESZEK, _a Polish Officer_. A BARD. HERMANN, _Ambassador to_ Rüdiger, _Prince of Germany_. A FISHERMAN.

_Choruses of Maidens, Warriors, People, Goblins, and Water Spirits._

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