Endnotes

  1. In Russia the windows have double panes during the winter for the purpose of keeping out the cold. —⁠Trans.

  2. Diminutive of dove, a term of endearment very common in Russia.

  3. Murder is punishable in Russia by penal servitude. Only where the crime perpetrated involves military treason, or has a political aspect, is capital punishment resorted to.

  4. This is, of course, only a child’s way of addressing an elder. —⁠Trans.

  5. In Russian schools 5 is the maximum mark. —⁠Trans.

  6. Such as is worn by schoolgirls and girl students. —⁠Trans.

  7. Short of Semyon. —⁠Trans.

  8. The Russian for Constantinople.

  9. Popadya, the wife of a Russian village priest or “pope,” is a distinct type in the social world of the Russian village.

  10. Pet name for Vassily.

  11. Diminutive of Anastasia.

  12. The day in the church calendar dedicated to the saint for whom a Russian child is named. It is celebrated with more solemnity than the birthday.

  13. Diminutive of Anastasia.

  14. 1 pood = 36 lbs.

  15. A Russian card game, similar to “Old Maid.”

  16. Contemptuous diminutive for Vassily.

  17. The village church bell is rung during a snowstorm to guide any team or wanderer that may be seeking the road.

  18. Equivalent to “Tom, Dick and Harry.”