There are three things the prospective traveler to Russia does well to bear in mind. One: It is their country. Two: Most foreigners are profoundly relieved that this is so. Three: You don't have to go.

When he said we were trying to make a fool of him, I could only murmur that the Creator had beat us to it.

Keeping your coat on indoors in Russia, no matter how public the place, is far worse than keeping your hat on as the flag goes by. It is worse than going into a Catholic church in Spain with your upper arms bare. It is worse than telling a mother her baby bores you.

Between frivolity and intentional mischief there is little difference, none in the results.

People are subject to moods, to temptations and fears, lethargy and aberration and ignorance, and the staunchest qualities shift under the stresses and strains of daily life.

Prolonged statistics are a lethal dose, which if it does not kill will certainly dispel your audience.

Young people want to look like peas in a pod, and there is no use trying to make them different.