Their footsteps were marked with such desolation and cruelty that the Russians, goaded to despair, again ventured, like the crushed worm, an impotent resistance.
Alexander himself was compelled to join the Tartars, and aid in cutting down his wretched countrymen.
The Tartars haughtily entered Novgorod.

Silence and desolation reigned through its streets.

They went from house to house, extorting, as they well knew how, treasure which beggared families and ruined the city.
Throughout all Russia the princes were compelled to break down the walls of their cities and to demolish their fortifications.

In the year 1262, Alexander was alarmed by some indications of displeasure on the part of the grand khan, and he decided to take an immediate journey to the Mogol capital with rich presents, there to attempt to explain away any suspicions which might be entertained.

His health was feeble, and suffered much from the exposures of the journey.