At the Uzbek border

Most things I've been prepared for, at least tolerably forewarned. I was most concerned about the Russian borders, what with declarations and records checking, but once that was done, I was expecting smooth sailing. They all took longer than I'd hope, but what can you do? Anyway, hours of waiting ended with a form being dumped on you. In Russian. I speak none and no-one except the guard spoke any English and he was understandably preoccupied. Thankfully I got the gist. The guard told me what to write and where to sign. This isn't the Long Walk To Freedom, so sign it I did. He again asked what money I had, but presuming he was still hankering for a bribe I didn't tell him (also I don't like showing my cash in a room full of strangers: I know, I'm strange). Thankfully the actual customs man spoke excellent English and I had to comply. I'm pleased I didn't dissemble - first because I could trust my roomies, and second because they searched every bag in every room of our carriage, and possibly others. Making us about 3 hours late. By which time I had expected my ride to have gone home, but they hadn't, and I'll tip them when I get back to Tashkent.