Commentary, Line 681: gloomy Russians spied through Line 691: the attack Summary

Kinbote comments on the gloominess of Russians, attributing it to the enforced nationalism inspired by the soviet government. Then, he mentions the two Russians sent to find the Zemblan crown jewels. The jewels, Kinbote assures the reader, are hidden, but not in the palace where the Russians search for them. After the king departs through the secret passage, the Russians continue searching, practically tearing down the castle. Kinbote describes them, admiringly, including their prowess at soccer and the candies they gave to the children. King Charles, he adds, has some Russian blood.

Kinbote does not know anything about the portrait of Sybil by Lang mentioned in the poem and chides Sybil again for not answering his questions. Then, he comments that when Shade had his heart attack...