"What kind of crops do they raise in the towns? Only Grand Dukes, Bolsheviks and drunkards!"

This quote by Ernest Poole is a satirical discuss the state of society in the early 20th century. He is indicating that the only people who achieve success in the towns are those with power, wealth, and impact. Grand Dukes were members of the nobility, Bolsheviks were members of the Russian Communist Party, and drunkards were individuals who were addicted to alcohol. Poole is recommending that the towns are not producing anything of worth, and that the only individuals who are thriving are those with power and impact. He is likewise implying that the towns are not producing any crops, as the only people who succeed are those who do not need to count on agriculture for their income. This quote is a commentary on the inequality of society and the lack of opportunity for those without power or impact.