In those days there were always many petty princes, ready to embark with their followers in any enterprise which promised either glory or booty.

Mstislaf, the fugitive sovereign, soon gathered around him semi-savage bands, entered the province of Kief, plundering and burning the homes of his former subjects.

As he approached Kief, Gleb, unprepared for efficient resistance, was compelled to seek safety in flight.

The inhabitants of the city, to escape the horrors of another siege and sack, threw open their gates, and crowded out to meet their former monarch as a returning friend.

Mstislaf entered the city in triumph and quietly reseated himself upon the throne.