12. II. 1921

Comrade Sklyansky!

An unprecedented and incredible situation is developing with our communications.

Stalin and I are unable to establish contact with Ordzhonikidze and Fomin on the most important matters — Fomin cannot reach Smilga.

Send an urgent telegram directly to Rostov-on-Don, citing my authority, ordering them to immediately appoint a responsible person who is obligated to maintain contact with both of them and to provide their answers (continuously) to me, Stalin, and Fomin (on behalf of both).

If this does not happen, I will bring charges in court (or will demand the dismissal and arrest) of the responsible persons here.
This is intolerable.

Lenin

P. S. This is already complete decomposition of the top ranks of the army!

No contact (!!) with such officials as Smilga and Ordzhonikidze!!

First published in 1942 in Lenin Collection XXXIV

Printed from the manuscript