16. 4. 1921
Comrades Zetkin and Levi!
Dear friends! Many thanks for your letters. Unfortunately, the last few weeks I was so busy and overworked that I almost absolutely could not read anything from the German press. I only saw the Open Letter and considered it entirely correct tactics (I censured the opposite opinion of our "Leftists," who were against this letter). As for the recent strikes and insurgent movement in Germany, I have read absolutely nothing about it. That a representative of the Executive defended foolish tactics, too leftist — to act immediately "to help the Russians," that I gladly believe: this representative is very often too leftist. In my opinion, in such cases, you should not give in, but protest and immediately and officially bring the question before the plenum of the Executive Bureau.

I consider your tactics regarding Serrati to be a mistake. Any defense or even half-defense of Serrati was a mistake. But withdrawal from the Central Committee!!?? This, in any case, is the biggest mistake! If we tolerate such practices, that responsible members of the Central Committee withdraw when they remain in the minority, then the development and recovery of the communist parties will never proceed normally. Instead of withdrawing — it would be better to ventilate the contentious issue several times together with the Executive Committee. Now Comrade Levi wants to write a brochure, i.e., deepen the contradiction! What is all this for?? In my conviction, this is a big mistake.

Why not wait? On June 1st here is the Congress. Why not discuss privately here before the Congress? Without public polemics, without withdrawals, without brochures about the differences. We have so few tested forces that I am truly indignant that comrades declare withdrawal, etc. It is necessary to do everything possible, and something impossible, but at all costs to avoid withdrawal and not exacerbate contradictions.

Our situation in February and March was difficult. A peasant country. Peasant economy — the gigantic majority of the population. Vacillating. Ruined, discontented. But we must not be too pessimistic. We made concessions in good time. And I am sure that we will win.
Best greetings and best wishes.
Your Lenin