ed people; and in all
the vast crowds we saw, the people appeared kind and good-natured to
each other in the extreme. There was no unnecessary pushing and
shoving, and none of that abusive language which is so disgusting in an
English crowd; on the contrary, every one appeared good-tempered and
happy.

"I really like the Russians in many respects. Their faults are rather
the consequence of bad government and a faulty religion, than such as
are inherent in their race. If a pure religion were introduced among
them generally, and their government were to become more and more
liberal, till they are capable of governing themselves, another century
would see a very great change in them for the better. At present a
large number of them are semi-barbarians, with the ignorance and vices
of barbarism; and although they may be easily governed under the present
despotic system, they are equally liable to be led into revolt by any
designing man who is bold enough to risk his life on the chance of
success. I give you Cousin Giles' opinion on the subject, which is of
more value than mine.

"I am sorry to say that in the capitals a number of people are found not
a little addicted to picking and stealing. Not that housebreakers or
footpads are to be found, but it is not safe to leave things about in
one's room. One day, while we were at dinner, I found that I had left
my pocket-handkerchief up-stairs, so I ran to get it. What was my
surprise to find the door open, which I felt certain I had locked, and
on looking in to observe a gentleman very composedly stowing away in a
towel some shirts and other clothes which had just come home from the
laundress.

"`Hollo, old fellow, what are you about?'

"`_Si chasse_--_si chasse_,' (presently--presently), he answered, with
the greatest coolness, as if he was employed in something he had been
ordered to do. They were some of the very few words of Russian I knew.

"`I'll not trouble you, my man. Just put those things down, and get out
of this as fast as you can,' I exclaimed, walking up to him. He tried
to grasp the things, and to make a bolt with them, but I was too quick
for him; and while I sung out at the top of my voice, he let the things
fall, and made a dart out of the room. I followed him as fast as I
could run, and had I not unfortunately slipped, I should have caught
him, and held him fast till my shouts brought the people from the
dining-room to my assistance. As it w