Our Little Cossack Cousin in Siberia

An officer in the Cossack cavalry.

14

Now connected by the longest railroad in the world with Petrograd (St. Petersburg), Russia.

15

Nothing; no harm.

16

Siberia was formerly a penal colony.

17

Lake Baikal's depth has never been measured. It is said to be the deepest lake in the world. There are many very interesting things about this lake. For one thing, everything points to its being very ancient. Water flowing into it is supposed to be ten times that flowing out into the Angara River. What becomes of it? Its waters are fresh, yet gulls, cormorants, and other birds usually found only on the sea, haunt it, and seals actually live in it. The peasants call it the Holy Sea and have many superstitions regarding it. – The Editor.

18

Blagovestchensk is now one of the prettiest cities in Siberia. It has tree-lined avenues, parks, and attractive residences. There are also fine schools, public libraries, theaters, and hospitals free to the poor. – The Editor.

19

Between 1905 and 1914 more than 3,000,000 colonists settled in Siberia. A great deal has been done by the Russian Government to help the new settlers in their new life. – The Editor.

20

Siberia is remarkably rich in minerals. It is especially famed for its gold, which is found chiefly in Central and Eastern Siberia.

21

There are no pews in Orthodox Russian churches. The entire congregation stands or kneels during the entire service. – The Editor.

22

Vanka is the ordinary diminutive for Ivan (John), while Vanyuska is another and more affectionate diminutive. – The Editor.