Talking with Ukrainians

Scene: Tarquin is in the kitchen with Ukrainian Butchers 1 and 2. Ukrainian Butcher 1 notices some washed tin cans on the drying rack next to the sink.

Ukrainian Butcher 1: [Picks up tin can.] Why you put this here?

Tarquin: So I can put it in recycling.

Ukrainian Butcher 1: [Points at recycling bags.] In there?

Tarquin: No, that's just for plastic and paper. I have to take this to the supermarket.

Ukrainian Butcher 1: They give you money?

Tarquin: No. I just take them and throw them in a big bank.

Ukrainian Butcher 1: [Stares at Tarquin in incomprehension.] Why?

Tarquin: Because it's good to recycle.

Ukrainian Butcher 1: [Points at waste bin.] Why not in there?

Tarquin: Um, because less waste is better. It's good to recycle things.

[Ukrainian Butchers 1 and 2 stare at Tarquin in total bemusement. They exchange a comment in Russian.]

Ukrainian Butcher 2: You have good family, yes?

Tarquin: What?

Ukrainian Butcher 1: Wait, wait.

[Ukrainian Butcher 1 takes out mobile phone with built in Russian-English translator. Awkward silence while he looks up a word and shows the translation to Tarquin. The word is "upbringing".]

Ukrainian Butcher 1: You have good upbringing, good family, yes?

Tarquin: Well, I suppose so, yes.

[Both Ukrainian Butchers laugh.]