NOTES TO THE POLITBURO OF THE CENTRAL COMMITTEE OF THE RCP(b), INCLUDING A DRAFT TELEGRAM TO G. V. CHICHERIN
In view of the unprecedented, disgraceful, and perilous vacillations of Chicherin and Litvinov—not to mention Krassin—I propose that we deliver a sharp rebuke.
My draft reads as follows:
“We deeply regret that both Chicherin and, to some extent, Litvinov have sunk to the absurdities of Krassin. In light of such wavering, we instruct the delegation to break off relations without fail—and as soon as possible—clearly and precisely articulating that our refusal to restore private property is rooted in our conviction that we agreed to only partial concessions on the condition of a highly advantageous, immediate loan, while steadfastly upholding the principle of an agreement between equals, based on mutual respect and parity between two distinct systems of property. (Should even the slightest further hesitation arise, we will publicly disavow this position before the All‑Russian Central Executive Committee and promptly relieve the individuals concerned of their duties.) Litvinov’s public telegram makes it abundantly clear that they seek to deceive us.”
Lenin.
2/V
I do not agree with Stalin’s proposed amendment to remove the threat of disavowal. Lenin.
Comrade Stalin! I suggest adding the following to the telegram to Genoa:
The session of the VTsIK is scheduled for May 12. By that date, at least three members of the delegation must be in Moscow, fully equipped with all relevant materials. Chicherin should remain in Germany to complete his convalescence—his recovery requires another 110 days.
Lenin
2/V
Written on May 2, 1922.

First published here, based on the original manuscripts.