A Glimpse Of China. 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'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, {69b}
The eternal Coolie,
From being robbed and despised,
Takes to cutting throats duly!

"But - please, don'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!"