Tuesday 8 September

No such good sleep luck two nights in a row. It did just feel hotter. I decided to read when it was after 5 and again felt sleepy after 6. We all get out and out for the long stop just after 9am. It's nice to walk around, but it's hot! And muggy. I notice another thing - ppl seem to spit a lot! We just buy a drink and back on the train we eat some peas and corn. Everyone is much more subdued today, doing their own pursuits. Reading, watching, writing. It's sunny and clear, but the sky still seems kind of hazy. The scenery is a lot of trees along the track. Lots of autumn colours. The houses we pass seem very inadequate, not much more than shacks. Gives me a general feeling of oppression. There is another long stop in the afternoon we get out and enjoy the warm afternoon. Apparently the others have been in the dining car and there were some Russian men with whom they were chatting. They were drinking a bit and things became a little uncomfortable, especially with some of the single girls. One man wanted to marry one, but already has 2 wives. Once back on the train we eat our noodles and then head to the dining carriage to play quizzes again. The others aren't ready and are ordering dinner. We order cabbage pies and enjoy them. The other men are still there drinking. One seems okay and good natured, but our guide overall isn't too happy with the situation, but doesn't want to do anything that may escalate things. Eventually we have our quiz, and this time we loose. I want to head back to our carriage. One of the men wants to talk to me or something, but I don't understand and am a bit freaked so I get Malcolm to escort me back. Whew, that seems to send the right message to the guy. I don't think anyone wants trouble. We get ready for bed and I read some readers digests I have with me.