The Works of Nikolai Gogol, Vol. 1

earrings. And the meat pies my old woman makes! You would not believe them: they are sugar, pure sugar! And the butter, it simply runs down your lips as you eat. You truly have to wonder: what are these women not capable of making! Have you ever drank, gentlemen, pear kvass a traditional fermented beverage made from rye bread or fruit with blackthorn berries, or varenukha a hot, spiced alcoholic drink made with fruit and honey with raisins and plums? Or, perhaps, have you ever happened to eat putrya a traditional porridge made from barley or millet, often served with poppy milk with milk? Good heavens, what dishes there are in this world! You start to eat and it is a delight, nothing more needs to be said; the sweetness is indescribable! Last year... However, why have I really gone on so long? Just come, come quickly; we will feed you so well that you will be telling everyone you meet, whether they are coming or going, all about it.

Beekeeper Rudy Panko.