OVER THE SAMOVAR

“Yes, I used always to think

That you Russians knew

How to make the good drink

As none others do.

“And I thought moreover,

( Not with the epicures ),

You might search the world over

For such women as yours.

“In both these matters now

I perceive I was right,

And I really can n't tell you how

Much I delight

“In my third ( Thanks, another cup! )

Idea of the fun,

When your country gets up

And follows the sun!

“And just as in Europe, see,

There's a conqueror nation,

So why not in Asia be

A like jubilation?

“Taught as well as organized,

The eternal Coolie,

From being robbed and despised,

Takes to cutting throats duly!

“But — please, do n't be flurried;

For I daresay by then

You'll be comfortably buried,

Ladies and gentlemen!

“No more, thanks! I must be going!

I'm so glad to have made this

Opportunity of knowing

Some more Russian ladies!”