In wintry night, immense, these Russian plains
extend in boundless drifts of fieldswept snow.
Through freezing blasts these endless Russian trains
roll trundling, bearing life and warmth. We know
the hostess loves us, rules her coach, takes pains
to keep the samovar a-steaming - tea!
Couchettes with men and women sleeping sound
or chatting soft of thoughts or family.

Kazan\'! Your busy, gritty, icy streets
and biting winds! It’s hard just getting round.
Then oh! the contrast . . Nazdarovie! Tea,
some snacks, and then full blast preparing pie,
the boy and cat at war, and his TV
too loud. The warmth, the now-we\'re-home-and-dry!