LETTER TO G. L. SHKLOVSKY
[Earlier than November 22, 1913]
Dear G. L.! The plan is now as follows:
1) Write n o t h i n g to the Vorstand for the time being. (I am looking for a lawyer
in Berlin, and until I find one, let's wait: it seems that the
Vorstand wants to propose arbitration with Kautsky to us. It is not worth our while to hurry to get such an un-
favourable proposal).
2) Answer Zetkina briefly for now: (after discussing the text of the letter
Zgraggen + Ducos + I)
catch her out.
Say, where is the "agreement" that
You mention? Where and who are the candidates? A n d o n l y t h a t.
Do not enter into detailed explanations yet.
3) In order to
save time and effort, let Zgraggen write to Ducos (Ducos de la Haille), that for the sake of convenience in coordinating our steps, we
propose to move the correspondence to
Bern. Zgraggen will send Ducos (when a general response is needed)
our draft, and then only Zgraggen will send it officially.
Does Zgraggen agree?
Is he firm? Zetkina repeats gossip that contradicts the printed agreement. Has Zgraggen not even understood this?
Compose this letter from Zgraggen to Ducos yourself and let me know when
it is sent and what
Ducos's response is.

I expect such assistance from you: to be an intermediary in my correspondence
with Zgraggen, and to write drafts of letters to Zetkin etc.
Do you agree?
Further, I must buy time to find another socialist lawyer in Brussels (this is between us). I will gradually cut off
"all avenues of approach and departure" for Zetkina. Do you or Zgrag
gen know of a socialist lawyer in Brussels?
Write and tell me if you agree?
Yours, N. L.
P. S. Did Kautsky officially offer Zgraggen arbitration with him, Kautsky, in Jena?