V. I.

Lenin

300

TELEGRAM TO KH. G. RAKOVSKY

In code
Rakovsky
Kiev

In regard to the S.R.s, I advise giving no more than three and keeping these three pretty thoroughly under
surveillance of the Bolsheviks, and if they do not agree—
so much the worse for them, we only stand to gain. [1]
Regarding military tasks, I remind you again of two of the most important: a break-through at Bukovina and the
capture of Rostov. All efforts must be devoted to these two
tasks—confirm this to Podvoisky and Antonov. As to
Dybenko’s plans, I warn you against any adventure—I fear
it will end in failure and he will be cut off. [2] Would it
not be wiser to have his forces replace Makhno and strike
at Taganrog and Rostov? I advise thinking it over thrice;
decide yourself, of course.

Lenin