Page:The Boy Travellers in the Russian Empire.djvu/175

Rh speaking, you see few besides the mujiks, or lower classes, as the well-dressed people, with money enough in their pockets, can secure immunity by means of a bribe. A small donation to the proper officer will set them free; but if they have no money they must do their share of work with the rest."

"I have read that Russia is the land of bribes," said Fred—"bribes both great and small."

"It certainly has that reputation," was the reply, "and doubtless not

without justice. The pay of the officials is very small, quite out of proportion to the expense of living, and the temptation is certainly great. A