To Comrade Trotsky, I have received your letter with the draft theses and an addendum regarding the "left." I will reply tomorrow.

Today I am only writing to clarify one minor point. You write: "It is characteristic that the 'left' does not even think of giving a single clear answer..." etc.

In my opinion, this is not true. They did give a clear answer. They did it in writing and in a very clear manner. The answer is that it is impossible for them to unite with the opportunists, and it would be a betrayal to do so.

If you consider this answer wrong, you must demonstrate it in your theses, stating why it is wrong. But you cannot claim that they did not give a clear answer. They gave a very clear answer, and it is crucial that the "left" themselves perceive it clearly. Otherwise, they are simply hiding their head in the sand.

Comrade Trotsky, Lenin