Boris ROMANIUK, scientific director of the Pskov Model Forest project: "I feel an affinity and understanding for the beliefs of our ancestors who were convinced that every tree has a soul".

…8

"Here a ball, there a children’s party…"

The imperial family and retinue were in fancy dress that completed the impression of a magnificent occasion.

…14

Brother Alchemist

Kaverin was convinced that literature should have nothing in common with Communist or any other form of propaganda.

…26

Pleasure without intermediaries

The Taleon Club wine list has been extended with a novelty from the French Languedoc.

…36

The Last Courtesan of the Belle Époque

She wanted to have all her jewellery permanently on show, earning herself the nickname "Queen of Diamonds".

…48

And no doubles!

It was only after the director shouted “Cut!” that those present grasped the self-sacrifice that lay behind this willingness.

…62

A crack in the Amethyst

Many condemned Garshin: how could he prefer any other woman to Akhmatova?
Letters and feelings that arise at a distance are one thing, immediate reality quite another.

…72

The irreconcilable Carthaginian

Fragments of the Histories written by the Ancient Greek historian Polybius.

…86

What a joy this Yuletide is!

It was a time of careless jollity when the young were given licence to amuse themselves with a variety of games and antics.

…92

The "Eastern spirit and cosseted comfort" of St Petersburg palaces

Many St Petersburg palaces and mansions concealed little corners of Eastern sumptuousness and comfort.

…108

A Remedy for Idle Chatter

Apart from the fun of competition and the training of your mind and eye, billiards can also be quite good exercise

…118