"Yes.  And you are from the newpaper?"  Raisa smiled extending her lace-covered hand over graciously giving a firm shake.  Her brother stood up and gave his hand as well.  His hand was more firm and strong than his sister's of course.  "Please join us."  She also waved over a waiter as her brother sat back down. 

"Please have tea and a scone with us.  They are quite lovely."  Her voice was cultured and pleasant to most.  She spoke with a good understanding of English, though had a definite Russian accent.  She had been made to practice each language she learned as a child until they were clearly understandable.