ON DUTY

SECRETARIES OF V. I. LENIN
November 21, 1922 – March 6, 1923

November 21, morning (entry by N. S. Alliluyeva).
In the morning, Gorbunov paid a visit to Vladimir Ilyich. At 11:30 a.m., Kamenev arrived; at 6 p.m., the 229th session was convened. There were no specific assignments to be carried out. Lydia Alexandrovna [Fotieva] had one document—No. 230—for voting*, which Vladimir Ilyich had asked her to remind him about around 5 or 6 o’clock, so that he could discuss it with Stalin. However, Lydia Alexandrovna took the document into her own hands and stated that she would personally provide him with the explanations he sought from Stalin—so there was no need for him to remind her—but that Lydia Alexandrovna would, in turn, remind him. Kamenev stayed from 10:15 a.m. to 10:45 a.m.
November 21, evening.
Haskel—11:30 a.m.

Stalin—12:30 p.m.

scheduled for November 22**.
Instructions regarding Haskel and Lers (the interpreter) have been issued to the commandant’s office.
November 22, morning (entry by N. S. Alliluyeva).
I. There were no assignments to be carried out in the morning. Those scheduled were already accounted for during the reception.
For the evening, Kivdilo and Brodovsky were invited for 6 p.m. (workers from the porcelain factory)***,
with the reception to proceed as follows: by 6 p.m., they would arrive in Gorbunov’s office, Notes in the “Execution” column:
* Voted on. Forwarded to the Politburo. Notified both Chicherin and Stalin. Volodicheva.
** Haskel—via Kamenev. Lers—the interpreter. Stalin—executed. Both were present.
*** Kivdilo and Brodovsky were informed through Zaks; all details concerning them can be obtained from Zaks.

DIARY OF THE ON-DUTY SECRETARIES OF V. I. LENIN
He will discuss matters with them and report back to us; then Vladimir Ilyich will drop by for a moment.
An order must be issued regarding the pass (through the Troitskiye Gates).
II. Vladimir Ilyich instructed that a strictly confidential letter concerning Haskel’s proposal be circulated to all members of the Politburo and to Chicherin; eight copies were sent to Nazaretyan for distribution and voting*. Check with Burakova—233; received.
III. Submit to Vladimir Ilyich for signature the documents prepared by Gorbunov, addressed to the Presidium of the 5th All‑Russian Congress of Trade Union Workers in Support of Soviet Labor 234 (to be returned to Gorbunov with his signature).
November 23, morning (entry by N. S. Alliluyeva).
From 11 a.m., Vladimir Ilyich held a Politburo meeting until 1:30 p.m. No assignments had yet been given.
If Vladimir Ilyich asks about the letter to Hoover, you should state that Chicherin himself had taken on the task of preparing it. Haskel is leaving today at 7:20 a.m. The letter will be delivered via Lander (as Vladimir Ilyich had requested). For now, there are no evening receptions scheduled.
November 23, evening (entry by Sh. M. Manuchar’yants).
At 5:40 p.m., Vladimir Ilyich was in his office. He requested a package from Sklyansky—and inquired when the minutes of the Politburo would be ready, and how this process was technically carried out. I contacted Sklyansky, who promised to send the package on the morning of November 24.
At 6:45 p.m., the package was delivered to Sokolnikov.
At 8:05 p.m., Vladimir Ilyich wished to speak with Stalin, but Stalin happened to be occupied with a meeting of the Secretariat of the Central Committee. Vladimir Ilyich said, “Either in the evening or in the morning—there’s no need to disturb him now.” At 8:30 p.m., he departed.
Vladimir Ilyich reviewed all the latest books. I handed Vladimir Ilyich a package from Zinoviev 235 and materials from Zaks. Vladimir Ilyich requested— Note in the “Execution” column:
* Sent at 15/20 minutes past the hour, No. 8565.

DIARY OF THE ON-DUTY SECRETARIES OF V. I. LENIN
He also requested news of the upcoming session of the Great Council of People’s Commissars and ordered that the letter be translated from Russian into English. At 10:05 a.m., Vladimir Ilyich left.
November 24, morning (entry by N. S. Alliluyeva).
Vladimir Ilyich intended to receive Meisner (from Glavryba); it remains uncertain whether he will do so today.
It is possible that this evening—or tomorrow afternoon—Vladimir Ilyich will meet with Sklyansky and Panzenjansky to discuss the shipbuilding program*.
Today, Vladimir Ilyich requested that Irsmann and Gardener—representatives of the Australian Party—be kept within telephone range from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m.; they would be waiting at the Luxe 294, and contact could be established through the commandant’s office.
Burakova called, requesting that Vladimir Ilyich be presented with Chicherin’s proposal for voting—a telegram from Vorovsky concerning the straits** 236.
November 24, evening (entry by Sh. M. Manuchar’yants).
Before the session, Kamenev visited Vladimir Ilyich. From 6 p.m. to 7:30 p.m., Vladimir Ilyich attended a meeting of the Council of Labor and Defense. The question of the composition of the commission tasked with reviewing the statement submitted by the Central Committee of Georgia 237 was put to Vladimir Ilyich for voting by the Politburo. Vladimir Ilyich did not vote.
The vote on the straits was forwarded to the Politburo. From 7:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m., Sklyansky took the floor, followed by Krzhizhanovsky—at the latter’s apartment.
November 25, morning (entry by N. S. Alliluyeva).
Vladimir Ilyich was unwell; he spent only five minutes in his office, dictating three letters over the phone—letters for which he intended to request replies at a later date.
Maria Ilyinichna [Ulyanova] advised that he should not be disturbed in any way—if he himself wished to inquire about replies, then he should ask those whose responses were needed. There were no receptions scheduled, nor were there any assignments to be carried out.

Notes in the “Execution” column:
* Sklyansky was received.
** Sent to the Politburo in the evening.

DIARY OF THE DUTY SECRETARIES OF V. I. LENIN
For the time being, there is nothing new. There are two packages from Stalin and Zinoviev—238—but not a word about them until there is a specific order and authorization.
November 25, evening.
He arrived at 6 o’clock. He spoke on the phone for a few minutes. From 6:30 to 7:30, A. D. Tsiurupa was with him. After that, he left immediately, requesting that all of Kamenev’s papers—those that had been lying on his desk in two folders—be forwarded to Tsiurupa, while the articles on the Urkarta concession were to be sent to Chicherin—239. This has been done. (However, some of the materials remain with Nikolai Petrovich [Gorbunov] or are still in the archives.)
Chicherin asked that he be given personal instructions regarding the Urkarta concession. He (Chicherin) is leaving tomorrow evening. These instructions must be delivered first thing on Sunday morning. (They have not yet been transmitted.)
From 8:15 to 8:45, there was a telephone conversation. Gorbunov requested that all materials concerning trusts, questions of financing, and information from Kamenev’s secretariat be passed on to him, since Vladimir Ilyich had instructed him to familiarize Tsiurupa with these documents. I had already sent Tsiurupa my views on the trusts and the information from Kamenev—Tsiurupa had received them and asked that they be kept with him for a while, so that he could review them at his leisure. Clearly, Nikolai Petrovich had also provided other materials.
I did not show the packages. But it was evident that they were all highly important. We should consult with Lydia Alexandrovna about this.
November 26, Sunday, morning (recorded by Sh. M. Manuchar’yants).
Vladimir Ilyich arrived at 12 o’clock, spoke on the phone, sorted through books, taking some with him. At 1:30, he left, taking with him V. Milyutin’s report—240—and other papers.
November 26, Sunday, evening (recorded by Sh. M. Manuchar’yants).
Vladimir Ilyich arrived at 6:50, spoke on the phone; at 7:30, Tsiurupa came to see him. At 8:30, Tsiurupa departed, as did Vladimir Ilyich.

DIARY OF THE DUTY SECRETARIES OF V. I. LENIN
November 27, morning (recorded by N. S. Alliluyeva).
Around noon, Vladimir Ilyich was in his study, asking after no one and soon departing. Through Nadezhda Konstantinovna, he requested all materials pertaining to foreign trade; everything was sent to his apartment. For the time being, there were no assignments, no audiences. Nor were there any packages.
November 27, evening (recorded by M. A. Volodicheva).
Gorbunov requested that, if possible, he be given a document from Zinoviev concerning Müntzemberg—once it had been received—for Vladimir Ilyich to sign, and that materials on foreign trade be forwarded to him (Gorbunov), since Vladimir Ilyich had asked him to familiarize Tsiurupa with those materials. But today, Vladimir Ilyich did not provide them. They remained at his apartment. There were no instructions from Vladimir Ilyich. At the beginning of the 7th, I issued an order to the commandant’s office to grant Kramer—241—a pass to the apartment.
There were quite a few packages. Among them was mail from Berlin.
November 28, morning (recorded by N. S. Alliluyeva).
Vladimir Ilyich did not come into his study; twice he spoke with Lydia Alexandrovna over the phone*. He requested Sorokin’s article from “Economic Life” dated November 26—243—concerning 159 directives**—then he gave Lydia Alexandrovna certain tasks. For the evening, there were no assignments, nor did I leave any packages behind.
November 28, evening (recorded by Sh. M. Manuchar’yants).
At 7:45, Vladimir Ilyich asked that Avanesov be located and that it be inquired whether he might call him. He called a second time and provided his telephone number. I informed Vladimir Ilyich that Avanesov was attending a meeting of the Presidium of the Workers’ and Peasants’ Inspection.
“Then it’s not necessary—I’ll call you in the morning.” There was a document for Vladimir Ilyich to sign, submitted by Gorbunov to the Presidium of the All-Russian Central Executive Committee, a copy addressed to Bogdanov and Fomin—244—regarding the reconsideration, within the VTsIK, of the question of transferring the timber-treatment plants from

Notes in the “Execution” column:
* See supplementary card 242.
** The article was cut out, pasted, and delivered to the apartment.

DIARY OF THE DUTY SECRETARIES OF V. I. LENIN
the Supreme Council of National Economy to the People’s Commissariat for Railways—245.
Vladimir Ilyich signed it (at his apartment and then handed it over to the secretariat).
November 29, morning (recorded by N. S. Alliluyeva).
At 12:20, Vladimir Ilyich was in his study, summoning Stalin to his presence; Stalin remained until 1:40. There were no assignments for the evening. Nor were there any packages yet.
November 29, evening (recorded by M. A. Volodicheva).
The Politburo reported (8812) that the question of the Union Republics would be placed before the Politburo tomorrow—not as a matter for information, but for deliberation—246.
Vladimir Ilyich made calls from 5:30 to 6 o’clock. He inquired whether the document from Stalin concerning the ship-repair program had been received. He spoke on the phone with Kamenev for a few minutes.
Over the phone, he dictated his thoughts on the ship-repair program, which he requested be forwarded to Stalin and Kamenev (which was duly carried out)—247.
He asked whether a telegram had been sent to Haskell in London. The duty secretary from Chicherin’s office replied in the affirmative*. Tomorrow morning, a written report will be sent.
It was delivered to Vladimir Ilyich.
From 7:50 to 8:55, Avanesov was present. They held a conversation in the study. At 9 o’clock, he departed. During his conversation with Avanesov, Vladimir Ilyich inquired when the Plenum of the Central Committee was scheduled to take place. Tomorrow, this question is on the agenda of the Politburo (alongside the agenda items), whereas the last Plenum of the Central Committee had decided to align the convocation of the Plenum with the Congress of Soviets.
This was conveyed to Vladimir Ilyich—248.
November 30, morning (recorded by N. S. Alliluyeva).
At 1:10, Vladimir Ilyich came into his study, made a call, and requested that he be given No. 763 of “Latest News,” dated October 13—he was particularly interested in Peshokhonov’s article—249. I found it and took it to his apartment. Vladimir Ilyich spent exactly five minutes in the study and then went straight home. There were no assignments. Nor were there any packages yet. Lydia

Note in the “Execution” column:
* A copy of the telegram was sent to Haskell, signed by Litvinov. It was received on November 30.

DIARY OF THE DUTY SECRETARIES OF V. I. LENIN
Alexandrovna requested that it be noted—merely for the record—that the packages addressed to Vladimir Ilyich from Haskell and Chicherin had been handed over to Kamenev.
November 30, evening (entry by Sh. M. Manuchar’yants).
Vladimir Ilyich entered his office at 6:45 a.m., inquired about the latest developments, and asked when the Politburo meeting had concluded. I informed Vladimir Ilyich that several new books had arrived;
he requested that they be brought to him. He returned the newspaper “Poslednie Novosti” dated October 13.
At 7:55 a.m., Adoratsky came to see Vladimir Ilyich and remained until 8:40 a.m. Vladimir
Ilyich was on the telephone. He requested the minutes of the Politburo; I handed them to him. Vladimir
Ilyich asked that the minutes of the Politburo be carefully concealed. He specifically instructed that Engels’ book
“Political Testament” be preserved with special care. He reviewed the newly acquired publications and then left at 9 a.m.
December 1, morning (entry by N. S. Alliluyeva).
At 11:20 a.m., Vladimir Ilyich telephoned Lidia Alexandrovna and asked her to arrange a meeting with Molotov* for 12 o’clock.
Molotov and Syrtsov were together from 12 to 1:30 p.m. No assignments had been given for the evening yet—and there were no packages either.
December 1, evening (entry by Sh. M. Manuchar’yants).
Vladimir Ilyich arrived at 5:30 p.m., and at 5:45 p.m.
Tsyurupa came to visit.
At 7 p.m., Irsmann, Garden, and the interpreter Voytinsky arrived; they departed at 8:40 p.m. At 8:45 p.m.,
Vladimir Ilyich left.
December 2, morning (entry by N. S. Alliluyeva).
Vladimir Ilyich arrived at 12:30 p.m., staying for only about ten minutes; he summoned Lidia Alexandrovna. He asked her to gather materials on Glavryba by 6 p.m. in preparation for his meeting with Knipovich, which he had requested be arranged for 7 p.m. The materials were with Gorbunov—ensure that everything was ready by 6 p.m. We must issue instructions to all checkpoints regarding Knipovich’s passage, since he does not yet possess an official pass.

Note in the “Execution” column:
* Molotov was scheduled for 12 p.m. and did indeed attend.

DIARY OF THE DUTY SECRETARIES OF V. I. LENIN
In the morning, a physician visited Vladimir Ilyich and told him the following: every two months—or even twice a year—Vladimir Ilyich should take a few days off for rest and recuperation. On Tuesday, the Chairman had not yet authorized him to preside; he would grant permission on Thursday—but only for a short time—and after Thursday, Vladimir Ilyich was to leave for several days without fail.
Gorbunov called and asked Vladimir Ilyich to convey, at the earliest opportunity, that Rykov had departed Tiflis by express train on December 1; this information needed to be communicated, as Vladimir Ilyich was deeply interested in the matter.
By 8 p.m., Vladimir Ilyich requested that Kamenev be appointed (he had telephoned at 2:05 p.m.).
We must remind Lidia Alexandrovna to ask Vladimir Ilyich which specific article of Kina’s 250 he had mentioned to Tsyurupa, since Tsyurupa simply could not locate that article.
December 2, evening.
From 6:30 p.m., from 7 to 8 p.m.—Knipovich was in the office; from 8 to 9:15 p.m.—Kamenev.
He handed over an English letter and asked whether Irsmann was planning to leave soon. The commandant of the “Lux” hotel, Kaiser, was consulted, who reported that Irsmann would probably not be leaving today and that he would provide a precise date for Irsmann’s departure tomorrow*. Once we had this information, we should inform Vladimir Ilyich and deliver the letter to him.
The letter to Müntzemberg** had been signed by 251, though with the caveat that Müntzemberg did not agree that the opening of the letter was properly rendered in German. He requested that a copy be retained in the secretariat (No. 8579).
A letter to Swiderski was awaiting his signature; we had a copy. If he signed it, we should forward it to its intended recipient, 252.
Gorbunov delivered newspaper clippings***: one folder contained recent articles, while the other held older material. These were the materials Vladimir Ilyich had requested be gathered for his speech at the Congress of Soviets. I thought it best to ask Lidia Alexandrovna whether he might be permitted to deliver the speech on Sunday.

Notes in the “Execution” column:
* According to Kaiser’s report, Irsmann himself did not know exactly when he would depart, but he would remain in Moscow for quite some time—perhaps even several months.
** The letter was transmitted via Gorbunov to Müntzemberg. M. Volodicheva.
*** They were placed on Vladimir Ilyich’s desk.

DIARY OF THE DUTY SECRETARIES OF V. I. LENIN
Vladimir Ilyich requested that Belenkiy be contacted to inquire about the exact arrival dates of Rykov and Dzerzhinsky*. He was keenly interested in this information. Belenkiy had not yet been contacted.
It was reported to Vladimir Ilyich that Frumkin was preparing the necessary materials and would send them either on Monday morning or on Sunday evening.
Vladimir Ilyich repeatedly asked Gorbunov for Mikhailovsky’s memorandum on financial matters. This document was supposed to be with Nadya [Alliluyeva]. Once the need had passed, he requested that both of Mikhailovsky’s memoranda, along with Krasnoschekov’s memorandum 254, be returned to him. He left at 9:30 a.m.
December 3, morning (entry by S. A. Flaxerman).
Vladimir Ilyich entered his office at 2 p.m. He requested that a stenographer be summoned. Volodicheva was not at home, and Vladimir Ilyich asked not to search for her, since he needed to write only a brief note—and he would draft it by hand. It was reported to Vladimir Ilyich: Belenkiy’s update on the arrival of Rykov and Dzerzhinsky, as well as Kaiser’s report on Irsmann’s expected departure time. Vladimir Ilyich asked Voytinsky, who knew English and worked at the Comintern, to find out when Irsmann would require a written note.
Vladimir Ilyich spent twenty minutes in the office before departing.
December 3, Sunday, evening (entry by S. A. Flaxerman).
Vladimir Ilyich entered his office at 6 p.m.
Belenkiy reported that, according to the People’s Commissariat for Railways, Rykov had departed Baku on December 3 and was expected in Rostov on December 5. A telegram had been sent to Dzerzhinsky for verification; however, the information had not yet been relayed to Vladimir Ilyich.
At 6:45 p.m., Vladimir Ilyich asked that Avanesov be informed that he had received the letter, read it, and wished to

Note in the “Execution” column:
* Belenkiy reported that Dzerzhinsky would likely depart Tiflis around December 8, making stops along the way for inspections, and would arrive in Moscow approximately on December 13. Rykov had left Tiflis on December 2 and would be in Moscow on the morning of December 4. (Regarding Rykov, Belenkiy would verify the details once more and make another phone call.)
Belenkiy called again and said that Rykov would arrive in Moscow at 6 p.m. today; he wanted to double-check and make another call. He initiated the inquiry over the line.

DIARY OF THE DUTY SECRETARIES OF V. I. LENIN
First and foremost, he needed to speak with him by telephone. Please relay the message tomorrow morning.
At 7 p.m., Vladimir Ilyich left his office.
December 4, morning (entry by N. S. Alliluyeva).
Vladimir Ilyich entered his office at 11:05 a.m. He requested that precise information be obtained regarding Rykov’s arrival*. At 10:40 a.m., Vladimir Ilyich made a call, asking that Avanesov be scheduled for 11 a.m. Avanesov arrived at 11:15 a.m. — and departed at 12:10 p.m.; their conversation revolved around matters pertaining to foreign trade. At 12:30 p.m., Vladimir Ilyich went to Gorbunov’s office, then returned and began dictating to Volodicheva over the phone; at 2 p.m., he left for home. At 6 p.m.,
Vladimir Ilyich would receive Kolegaev (telephone 174-14 or via Trotsky’s switchboard).
When Rykov arrives (if Vladimir Ilyich is already at his dacha, he will depart on Thursday), he should be connected to Vladimir Ilyich by telephone**. At 5:50 p.m., Zhukov was with Vladimir Ilyich for ten minutes. From 7 p.m. to 8 p.m., Frumkin was in attendance; from 8:15 a.m. to 9 a.m., Tsyurupa was there (provided this time does not prove inconvenient for Vladimir Ilyich—should that be the case, he may meet with them tomorrow at 11 a.m. or 12:30 p.m.).
December 4, evening (entry by Sh. M. Manuchar’yants).
At 5:30 p.m., Vladimir Ilyich dictated a letter to Litvinov and a greeting to the youth attending the Third Congress of the Comintern, No. 255. He made an automated call and asked what lay ahead for him today; the operator informed him of the time and who was scheduled to visit. At 5:50 p.m., Kolegaev came by to discuss the closure of theaters, staying until 6:10. Shortly thereafter, Zhukov arrived with Golzman and Lavrent’ev, remaining until 6:50 p.m.; they spoke about the electrical industry. After them, Frumkin came at 6:50 p.m., staying until 7:25 p.m. to discuss foreign trade. At 7:30 p.m., Vladimir Ilyich left his office; at 8 p.m., Vladimir Ilyich returned to his office. Vladimir Ilyich inquired about Litvinov’s response and requested a telegram from Haskell.

Notes in the “Execution” column:
* She called Belenkiy, asking once again to verify all details precisely. He promised to provide a reply this evening.
** Keep watch.

DIARY OF THE DUTY SECRETARIES OF V. I. LENIN
He handed over a book by the Spaniard Cesar Reyes, requesting that the inscription and contents of the book be translated—No. 256.
The commission composed of Zinovyev, Trotsky, and Bukharin convened on the evening of December 4 (today), during which a copy of Vladimir Ilyich’s notes—addressed to Bukharin—on the tasks facing our delegation in The Hague was dispatched, No. 257.
At 9 a.m., Vladimir Ilyich left his office.
December 5, morning (entry by N. S. Alliluyeva).
Litvinov reported that confirmation had been received confirming Haskell’s receipt of the telegram through our mission; it was to be communicated to Vladimir Ilyich.
Vladimir Ilyich entered his office at 10:45 a.m., inquiring whether the commission consisting of Bukharin, Zinovyev, and Trotsky had met—she replied that it had convened during the night; he left at 1:40 p.m.
At 6 p.m., Czechoslovak workers would arrive at Vladimir Ilyich’s residence (see list attached). It was necessary to issue instructions to all checkpoints regarding access passes; they already held passes to the Kremlin (valid for 15 minutes). They had been notified.
At 7:30 a.m., Popov would arrive (he had been informed). A written report from Litvinov concerning the delivery of the telegram to Haskell was expected.
December 5, evening (entry by M. A. Volodicheva).
From 6 p.m. to 6:45 p.m.: Czechoslovaks—Josef Gais, Chrámosta, Franek, Richter, Haber with Antselovich—No. 259.
From 7 p.m. to 8 p.m.: Popov (regarding the census). He took a brief break and went home. At 8:20 a.m., A. D. Tsyurupa was in the office; he left at 9:25 a.m.
December 6, morning (entry by N. S. Alliluyeva).
Vladimir Ilyich entered his office just before noon. On his behalf, Vladimir Ilyich asked Lidia Aleksandrovna to write several letters (to Yakovleva, Kamenev, Tsyurupa). He requested that he be connected by telephone with Stalin—arranging a meeting with him. At 12:40 p.m., Stalin came to see him, staying until 2:20 p.m. He asked that Eiduk be scheduled for 7:30 a.m., Dovgalevsky for 6 p.m., and Bogdanov for 7 a.m. After Stalin, he intended to speak with Meshcheryakov*.

Note in the “Execution” column:
* He did not speak, as he had lingered too long.

DIARY OF THE DUTY SECRETARIES OF V. I. LENIN
At 2:25 p.m., Vladimir Ilyich left for home. Kamenev called, saying that he would send a package addressed to Comrade Lenin—this package should be delivered directly to him*.
December 6, evening (entry by M. A. Volodicheva).
Vladimir Ilyich read Kamenev’s letter at 6 p.m.
From 6:05 a.m. to 6:30 a.m.: Bogdanov; from 6:55 a.m. to 7:20 a.m.: Eiduk; from 7:25 a.m. to
Dovgalevsky.
For 15–20 minutes, he dictated his recollections of N. E. Fedoseev—No. 260. He left shortly before 10 a.m. At Fedoseev’s request, these recollections were forwarded to Anna Ilyinichna [Elizarova] (a copy of the accompanying note has been sent).
December 7, morning (entry by N. S. Alliluyeva).
Vladimir Ilyich entered his office at 10:55 a.m.; at 11 a.m., a meeting of the Political Bureau commenced under the chairmanship of Kamenev. Vladimir Ilyich attended the session. He left the meeting at 2:20 p.m. and returned to his apartment.
December 7, evening (entry by Sh. M. Manuchar’yants).
Vladimir Ilyich entered his office at 5:30 p.m., speaking by telephone with Stalin and others, issuing a series of directives to the Political Bureau and to Yakovleva. He departed for Gorki at 6:15 p.m., taking his current papers with him.
December 8, morning (entry by N. S. Alliluyeva).
At 12:10 p.m., Vladimir Ilyich telephoned Lidia Aleksandrovna, discussing with her the decisions made the previous day by the Political Bureau.
At 12:15 p.m., the following were sent to Vladimir Ilyich via Belenkiy: 1) Protocol No. 39 of the Political Bureau—No. 261—and 2) a list of officials responsible for work at the all‑Russian and regional levels (from Syrtsov). Vladimir Ilyich intended to call later and dictate certain additional instructions.
December 8, evening (entry by Sh. M. Manuchar’yants).
Vladimir Ilyich made a telephone call at 5:35 p.m., dictating to Volodicheva; at 5:50 p.m.,
she spoke with Vladi— Note in the “Execution” column:
* Received at 4:45 p.m. and placed on the desk in his office. Volodicheva.

DIARY OF THE DUTY SECRETARIES OF V. I. LENIN
Lidia Alexandrovna, known to the world as Ilyich, cast three votes in the Politburo: on Vorovsky’s telegram, on Mdivan’s and Chicherin’s communication of December 7, 1922, concerning the composition of the commission tasked with reviewing the resolutions for the X Congress of Soviets, and on the address to the All-Ukrainian Congress—No. 262. He dictated the rules of procedure for the Politburo—No. 263. Regarding the postponement of the Plenum—agreed. He finished speaking at 6:20 a.m. A medicine was dispatched from Berlin.
December 9, morning (entry by N. S. Alliluyeva).
There were no assignments whatsoever in the evening. Maria Ilyinichna called and reported that Vladimir
Ilyich, starting at 5:45 p.m., wished to dictate something, and at 6:00 p.m. he would speak with Rykov; Rykov had arrived and was currently at home. There were no assignments. There were some packages.
December 9, evening (entry by M. A. Volodicheva).
Vladimir Ilyich called at 6:05 p.m. and gave an assignment. Letters from Vladimir Ilyich regarding the work of the deputies—No. 264—were sent to Rykov, Stalin, Tsiurupa, and Kamenev.
Belenkiy would bring a package for Vladimir Ilyich from Kamenev.
Vladimir Ilyich’s letter in French, which Suvarin would return this evening—No. 265—would be forwarded to him.
To Vladimir Ilyich were sent: 1) his letter on the work of the deputies (original, copy, and a copy of the old resolution—No. 266), a letter from Tsetkina, and the medicine.
December 10, morning.
Nothing came from Vladimir Ilyich.
December 10, evening.
He called at the beginning of 7:00 p.m., requesting to be connected with Stalin. He voted on Kirov, Vasilyev, and Poluyan’s telegram concerning the Socialist-Revolutionaries—No. 267.
At the first opportunity, Vladimir Ilyich’s letter to Lazzari in French, revised by Suvarin, should be sent—having been delivered to the mailbox; at 8:3/4 p.m., Vladimir Ilyich
asked that a letter be sent to Frumkin, in which he sought Frumkin’s opinion on Avanesov’s theses. It was sent. Tomorrow morning, we should inquire of Frumkin when he would submit his response—No. 268.

DIARY OF THE DUTY SECRETARIES OF V. I. LENIN
Gorbunova should also be consulted in the morning (see copies Nos. 8605 and 8606)—No. 269.
The letter to Lazzari need not be sent specifically; it should be sent only when the opportunity arises. This was what Vladimir Ilyich said.
December 11, morning (entry by N. S. Alliluyeva).
There were no assignments. Vladimir Ilyich did not call once. Ensure that the temperature in the study remains no lower than 14 degrees Celsius in the evening.
December 11, evening (entry by Sh. M. Manuchar’yants).
There were no assignments. Vladimir Ilyich did not call once.
December 12, morning (entry by N. S. Alliluyeva).
Vladimir Ilyich arrived in Moscow at 11:00 a.m.; he entered the study at 11:15 a.m., stayed in the study for only a short time, and left before 12:00 p.m. to go home. At 12:00 p.m., Rykov, Kamenev, and
Tsiurupa* were scheduled to meet with him.
Vladimir Ilyich left the study at 2:00 p.m.; up until 2:00 p.m., Rykov, Kamenev,
Tsiurupa were seated with him.
For the evening, nothing yet.
December 12, evening (entry by M. A. Volodicheva).
Vladimir Ilyich had been in the study since 5:30 p.m. He spoke on the phone for several minutes. He instructed that a letter be sent to the Italian Lazzari and specifically requested that someone be chosen who could be trusted to deliver it—someone who would carry the message faithfully. Dzerzhinsky—starting at 6:00 p.m. until 6:45 p.m.
Stomonakov—(regarding the question of the monopoly on foreign trade)—at 7:45 p.m.
He left at 8:15 p.m.
Vladimir Ilyich’s letter to Lazzari was forwarded to Suvarin (“Lux,” No. 23). Suvarin would coordinate with reliable comrades and, tomorrow morning, either report back to us or better yet, give him a call—No. **.
December 13, morning (entry by L. A. Fotieva).
At 11:00 a.m., the doctors arrived. They prescribed complete rest and advised leaving the city.

Notes in the “Execution” column:
* They were present.
** To be closely monitored at Vladimir Ilyich’s request. Suvarin’s personal acknowledgment has been received.

DIARY OF THE DUTY SECRETARIES OF V. I. LENIN
Around 12:00 p.m., he summoned Fotieva to his apartment to settle outstanding matters. He dictated letters: to the Central Committee regarding Rozhkov, to Frumkin, to Stomonakov, and to Trotsky about foreign trade; to the deputies concerning the distribution of work—No. 270. At 12:30 p.m., Stalin arrived and left at 2:35 p.m.
December 13, evening (entry by L. A. Fotieva).
At 5:55 p.m., he summoned Fotieva. The responses from Frumkin and Trotsky were communicated. He scheduled a meeting with Krzhizhanovsky for December 14 at 12:00 p.m. He dictated, from 7:30 a.m. to 8:25 a.m., a letter to the Plenary Session of the Central Committee on the issue of foreign trade—No. 271. He had intended to meet with Frumkin, but ultimately canceled the meeting. His mood was good; he joked around. He was concerned only with settling the remaining affairs.
December 14, morning (entry by L. A. Fotieva).
He called at 11:00 a.m., speaking with Fotieva about yesterday’s letter concerning foreign trade, asking her not to share it with anyone, as he had further additions to make. He checked whether Krzhizhanovsky would be available. He called again at 11:10 a.m.
At 1:10 p.m., he asked to be connected with Yaroslavsky. Since Yaroslavsky could not be found—his conversation or meeting with him was postponed until the evening. At 2:25 p.m., he summoned Fotieva and handed her a note for Avanesov, to be sent along with the letter on foreign trade. He ordered that, upon receiving the letter back, it should be forwarded to Frumkin, whom he would likely see in the evening. He was very pleased to learn of the Politburo’s decision regarding Rozhkov, laughing and saying that this was truly excellent news—No. 272. His demeanor was cheerful; he joked and laughed.
December 14, evening (entry by M. A. Volodicheva).
Vladimir Ilyich called at a quarter to six. He inquired about the minutes of the Politburo. He said he intended to dictate. He asked to be connected with Yaroslavsky. (Yaroslavsky had been with him.) At 7:00 p.m., the doctor arrived. Frumkin was present, but he did not meet with Vladimir Ilyich. At 9:00 p.m., Vladimir Ilyich asked whether Frumkin was still there. He asked Lidia Alexandrovna to remind him of Frumkin tomorrow at 12:00 p.m., when Frumkin would be visiting Tsiurupa. He asked to find out whether all the materials had indeed been sent to Trotsky concerning the monopoly on foreign…

DIARY OF THE DUTY SECRETARIES OF V. I. LENIN
trade, and handed over those that were in his possession. These must be shown to Lydia Alexandrovna.
Vladimir Ilyich’s letter concerning Bukharin’s letter was sent to Stalin and Trotsky at the request of Vladimir Ilyich*. He stated that he would draft any additional remarks separately.
By 8 o’clock, he informed Lydia Alexandrovna that he would dictate: 1) a letter to Zinoviev regarding Rozhkov in Pskov; 2) a letter to Kamenev on the Union of Socialist Republics; 3) an addendum to the letter on foreign trade.
Around 9 o’clock, he reiterated that he reserved the right to make calls until 10 p.m. Around 10 p.m., Maria Ilyinichna called and informed him that Vladimir Ilyich would not be dictating today.
December 15, morning (recorded by L. A. Fotieva).
He made a call at 11:50 a.m. to inquire about copies of yesterday’s letters. He summoned Fotieva to his apartment and handed her the letter he had written to Trotsky, instructing her to personally type it up and send it off, while keeping a copy sealed in an envelope within Secret Archive No. 273. It was exceedingly difficult for him to write; he had ordered the original destroyed, yet it was preserved in the Secret Archive alongside the copy.
He issued instructions regarding the books: technical and medical works, among others, were to be returned; agricultural literature was to be passed on to Maria Ilyinichna; works on industrial propaganda, labor organization, and pedagogy were to be entrusted to Nadezhda Konstantinovna; fiction was to be kept on hand for future use, while periodicals, political writings, memoirs, recollections, and the like were to be reserved for his personal reading.
In addition, he instructed that all minutes of the Finance Committee be provided to him—along with a memorandum from the secretary that was neither too long nor too brief, yet sufficient for him to form a clear understanding of the Finance Committee’s work. His mood was poor; he said he felt worse than before and had not slept well during the night.

Note in the “Execution” column:
* Should Frumkin be sent a message?

DIARY OF THE DUTY SECRETARIES OF V. I. LENIN
December 15, evening (recorded by L. A. Fotieva).
He made a call at 8:30 a.m. and dictated letters—first over the phone, then summoning them to his apartment—to Stalin and Trotsky. To Stalin, he wrote about the possibility of addressing the Congress of Soviets 274; to Trotsky, he expressed his firm protest against the removal of the question of foreign trade from the plenary session, should such a move be contemplated. He concluded his dictation around 9 a.m.
December 16, morning (recorded by L. A. Fotieva).
At 11:11 a.m., doctors arrived—Kramer and Kozhevnikov 275. Nadezhda Konstantinovna had sent a letter to the deputies, which she had apparently drafted either last night or this morning, before the doctors came. Pakaln 276 reported that Vladimir Ilyich did not wish to travel to Gorki, explaining that the journey by aerocar was exhausting, while traveling by automobile was out of the question.
Pakaln recounted that every day, at around 9:30 a.m., he was brought a dog—Aida—with whom he played and whom he cherished deeply. A telegram arrived from Ferster 277, confirming that at least seven days of complete rest were required prior to any public address. Vladimir Ilyich had not made a single call and had issued no directives whatsoever.
December 16, evening (recorded by L. A. Fotieva).
Nadezhda Konstantinovna called, requesting, on behalf of Vladimir Ilyich, that she inform Stalin that he would not be speaking at the Congress of Soviets. When asked how Vladimir Ilyich was feeling, she replied that he was doing moderately well; outwardly, there was nothing particularly alarming, though it was difficult to judge from afar. She also requested, on his behalf, that she secretly contact Yaroslavsky so that he might record the speeches of Bukharin and Pyatakov—and, if possible, those of other speakers at the plenary session on the issue of foreign trade.
December 18, morning (recorded by N. S. Alliluyeva).
The Plenum of the Central Committee was in session. Vladimir Ilyich was absent, ill—no instructions or directives were given.
December 18, evening.
The Plenum convened. Vladimir Ilyich was absent; the evening session of the Plenum came to a close.

DIARY OF THE DUTY SECRETARIES OF V. I. LENIN
December 23 (recorded by M. A. Volodicheva).
At the beginning of 9 a.m., Vladimir Ilyich summoned her to his apartment. Over the course of four minutes, he dictated a letter. He was feeling unwell. The doctors were present. Before beginning to dictate, he said, “I want to dictate a letter to the Congress. Please write it down!” He dictated quickly, but his ailing condition was palpable. Upon finishing, he asked what date it was. He wondered why she looked so pale, why she was not attending the Congress 278, and lamented that he was taking time away from her—time she could have spent there instead. I received no further instructions.
December 24 (recorded by M. A. Volodicheva).
The following day, December 24, between 6 and 8 a.m., Vladimir Ilyich summoned her once again. He cautioned that everything he dictated yesterday (December 23) and today (December 24) was strictly confidential. He emphasized this point repeatedly. He demanded that everything he dictated be stored in a special location under special oversight and treated as absolutely secret. At that very moment, he issued yet another directive 279.
Sukhanov’s “Notes on the Revolution,” Volumes III and IV, were taken from Vladimir Ilyich.
December 29, 280.
Through Nadezhda Konstantinovna, Vladimir Ilyich requested that lists of new books be compiled. The doctors had authorized reading. Vladimir Ilyich was reading Sukhanov’s “Notes on the Revolution” (Volumes III and IV). He showed little interest in fiction. Vladimir Ilyich asked that the lists be organized by department.
January 5, 1923.
Vladimir Ilyich requested lists of new books starting from January 3, along with Titlinov’s “The New Church.”
January 17 (recorded by M. A. Volodicheva).
From 6 to 7 a.m., Vladimir Ilyich summoned her for half an hour. He read through and revised his notes on Sukhanov’s book about the revolution. For roughly ten to fifteen minutes, he dictated a continuation on the same topic 281.

DIARY OF THE ON-DUTY SECRETARIES OF V. I. LENIN
He was pleased with the new reading stand, which made it easier for him to read books and his own manuscripts.
As he dictated the phrase: “To our Sukhanov…” — he paused at the words “…and not even dream of…” and, while pondering how to continue, quipped playfully, “What a memory! I’ve completely forgotten what I meant to say! Damn it all! What a remarkable lack of recollection!” He immediately requested that the notes be rewritten and handed over to him.
Observing him during dictation over several consecutive days, I noticed that he found it deeply unpleasant when interrupted in the middle of a sentence, as it caused him to lose the thread of his thoughts.
January 18 (entry by M. A. Volodicheva).
Vladimir Ilyich did not summon anyone.
January 19 (entry by M. A. Volodicheva).
Vladimir Ilyich summoned me today around 7 o’clock, then again just before 9. He dictated his second draft on the Workers’ and Peasants’ Inspection (“How Should We Reorganize the RPKI?”), spending roughly thirty minutes on it. He said he was eager to get it written as soon as possible.
January 20.
Vladimir Ilyich summoned me today between 12 and 1 o’clock. He was reading his article “How Should We Reorganize the RPKI?” While doing so, he made numerous additions and corrections.
He mentioned that Nadezhda Konstantinovna would provide him with a brief report concerning one particular section of his article, and he instructed Lidia Aleksandrovna to ascertain, with equal precision, the following: How many institutions dedicated to scientific organization of labor exist within our country? How many congresses have been held on this topic, and which groups participated in them? Are there any relevant materials stored in Petrograd? (Khloplyankin had already sent the very same material that Nadezhda Konstantinovna possessed—albeit slightly more detailed.)
He requested a complete list of books. The session lasted about thirty minutes.
January 21 (entry by M. A. Volodicheva).
Vladimir Ilyich did not summon anyone.

DIARY OF THE ON-DUTY SECRETARIES OF V. I. LENIN
January 22 (entry by M. A. Volodicheva).
Vladimir Ilyich summoned me for twenty-five minutes—from 12 o’clock until 12:25. He was making revisions to the second draft on the Rabkrin; he ultimately settled on this version. Since time was limited, he was in a great hurry. He asked that the article be tidied up, retyped, and delivered to him by evening. As Nadezhda Konstantinovna admitted him, she remarked that he had illegally appropriated a few extra minutes to review the article. Nadezhda Konstantinovna later relayed to me that the on-duty secretary had been reluctant to let me see him. After leaving Vladimir Ilyich’s presence, Nadezhda Konstantinovna, upon entering the secretariat, conveyed Vladimir Ilyich’s request: “Please leave a pass for those places I didn’t manage to record, should such places arise.” She added that Vladimir Ilyich had felt it was difficult to keep pace with him, given how hurried he was. It was assured that everything had been duly recorded; should any doubts remain, matters would be handled exactly as he had requested.
January 23 (entry by M. A. Volodicheva).
Vladimir Ilyich summoned me between 12 and 1 o’clock. He quickly reviewed once more the article mentioned above, making minor adjustments. He asked that these changes be incorporated into both his own copy and ours—and that one of the copies be forwarded to Maria Ilyinichna for “Pravda.” The article was revised and delivered to Maria Ilyinichna by 3 o’clock. He inquired whether Lidia Aleksandrovna had returned and whether our holidays were over.
January 30 (entry by L. A. Fotieva).
On January 24, Vladimir Ilyich summoned Fotieva and instructed her to request materials from Dzerzhinsky or Stalin regarding the commission on the Georgian question, and to study them in detail. This task was assigned to Fotieva, Glässer, and Gorbunov. The goal: to prepare a report for Vladimir Ilyich, who needed this information for the Party Congress. Apparently, he was unaware that the issue had already been brought before the Politburo. He said, “On the eve of my illness, Dzerzhinsky spoke to me about the commission’s work and about the ‘incident,’ and that had a profound impact on me.”

DIARY OF THE ON-DUTY SECRETARIES OF V. I. LENIN
On Thursday, January 25, he asked whether the materials had been received. I replied that Dzerzhinsky would not arrive until Saturday—and therefore, I had not yet been able to ask him about them.
On Saturday, I inquired of Dzerzhinsky, who informed me that the materials were with Stalin. I sent a letter to Stalin—but they were not in Moscow. Yesterday, January 29, Stalin called to say that he could not release the materials without the approval of the Politburo. He asked whether I might be telling Vladimir Ilyich something unnecessary, and wondered how he could possibly be kept abreast of current affairs. For example, his article on the RPKI indicated that he was familiar with certain circumstances. I replied that I neither spoke nor had any reason to believe that he was privy to such matters. Today, Vladimir Ilyich summoned me to learn the answer—and stated that he would fight to ensure the materials were made available.
On January 26, Vladimir Ilyich instructed Tsurupa, Svidersky, and Avanesov that if they agreed with his article, they should convene a series of meetings to discuss, in preparation for the Congress, whether it might be advisable to draw up a plan—a syllabus for textbooks (presumably concerning the standardization of labor). Did they know the works of Kerzhen­tsev and Erman­sky? There was already a plan for the scientific organization of labor, and the Workers’ and Peasants’ Inspection had its own department devoted to standardization.
Today, he asked what Tsurupa had replied—whether he, Svidersky, Avanesov, Reske, and the other members of the collegium agreed with the article. I said that I did not know. He asked whether Tsurupa was wavering, whether he was trying to delay, or whether he was speaking openly with me. I replied that I had not yet had the opportunity to speak with him—my only contact had been to convey the instruction, which had now been accepted for execution.
On January 24, Vladimir Ilyich said, “First and foremost, regarding our ‘conspiratorial’ matter: I know that you are deceiving me.” In response to my assurances to the contrary, he said, “I have my own view on this.”
Today, January 30, Vladimir Ilyich stated that, when asked yesterday whether he would be able to address the Congress on March 30, the doctor had answered in the negative—but had promised that by that date he would be able to stand, and that within a month he would be permitted to read newspapers. Returning to the question of the Georgian commission, he said with a laugh, “After all, these aren’t newspapers…”

DIARY OF THE DUTY SECRETARIES OF V. I. LENIN
“Which means I can still read,” he said, his mood apparently quite good. There was no compress on his head.
February 1 (entry by L. A. Fotieva).
Today Vladimir Ilyich summoned me at 6:30 a.m. I reported that the Politburo had approved
the materials—287 in total—and gave instructions on what to focus on and, more generally, how to make use of them. 288. Vladimir Ilyich remarked, “If I were at liberty—if I had first qualified my remark, then laughed as he repeated it, ‘if I were at liberty’—I could easily have handled all of this myself.” It had been anticipated that studying these materials would take about four weeks.
He asked about Tsuryupa’s views and those of others regarding his article. In accordance with Tsuryupa’s and Svidersky’s instructions, she replied that Svidersky was entirely in agreement. Tsuryupa welcomed the proposal concerning the recruitment of members of the Central Committee, though he expressed doubt as to whether the Workers’ and Peasants’ Inspection could continue to fulfill all its current functions if its staff were reduced to just 300–400 personnel. I was unfamiliar with Avanesov’s position. Tomorrow, the entire collegium will hold a meeting.
He asked whether the question of the article had been raised in the Central Committee. She replied that she did not know. Vladimir Ilyich was satisfied with this information.
February 2 (entry by M. A. Volodicheva).
Vladimir Ilyich summoned me at 11:45 a.m. He dictated the article “Better Fewer, But Better” 289.
He finished at 12:30 p.m.
He asked Lidia Aleksandrovna to visit him every other day. When she asked, “At what time?” he replied that he was now a free man. He casually mentioned that he could only receive visitors between 2 and 5 p.m.; he added that perhaps they could arrange to meet at six o’clock—or even coordinate with his sister.
She had not seen him since January 23rd. His appearance had improved significantly: he looked fresh and full of energy. As always, he dictated superbly—without pause, rarely stumbling over his words; rather, he did not so much dictate as speak, gesturing as he went along. There was no compress on his head.
February 3 (entry by L. A. Fotieva).
Vladimir Ilyich summoned her for a few minutes at 7 a.m. He asked whether she had reviewed the materials. I replied that

DIARY OF THE DUTY SECRETARIES OF V. I. LENIN
we had only examined them from an external perspective—and that there turned out to be fewer of them than we had expected.
He asked whether this matter had been discussed in the Politburo. I replied that I was not authorized to speak about it. He asked, “Are you specifically forbidden from talking about this? ” “No, in general I am not permitted to discuss current affairs.” “So this is a current affair?” I realized I had made a mistake. I reiterated that I was not allowed to speak. He said, “I’ve known about this matter since before my illness, back when it was first brought up by Dzerzhinsky. Did the commission present a report to the Politburo?” “Yes, it did—and as far as I recall, the Politburo broadly endorsed its decision.”
He said, “Well, I think you’ll submit your report in about three weeks, and then I’ll write a letter.” I replied, “We may not be able to finish within three weeks.” The doctors arrived—Förster, who had just arrived, Kozhevnikov, and Kramer—and I left. He appeared cheerful and energetic, perhaps slightly agitated in anticipation of Förster’s visit, since it had been a long time since they had last seen each other.
February 4 (entry by M. A. Volodicheva).
Vladimir Ilyich summoned me today around 6 p.m. He asked whether I had any objections to his inviting me to visit—even on holidays. (“After all, won’t you eventually want to rest sometime?”)
He dictated the continuation of the article “Better Fewer, But Better” for more than half an hour. His complexion was fresh, his voice clear and vigorous. No compress on his head. He concluded with the words, “Well, that’s enough for now. I’m a bit tired.” He asked that I transcribe the text and call him when I was finished, since he would likely continue working on the article later that day; he noted that he had an old habit of writing while keeping a manuscript in front of him—something he found difficult to do without.
Nadezhda Konstantinovna told me that a German doctor—Förster—had visited him, offering many pleasant remarks, permitting him to do some light gymnastics, and even extending his daily dictation sessions. Vladimir Ilyich was very pleased.
At 8 p.m., he called again—but this time, instead of dictating, he reviewed what had been written and made additions. When he finished, he said that before submitting the article for publication,

DIARY OF THE DUTY SECRETARIES OF V. I. LENIN
he intended to show it to Tsuryupa and perhaps to a few other members of his collegium, adding that he still planned to elaborate further on these thoughts. The pace of his dictation was slower than usual. There was a compress on his head. His face had grown pale—clear signs of fatigue.
February 5 (entry by M. A. Volodicheva).
Today Vladimir Ilyich summoned me at 12 p.m. We spent three-quarters of an hour together. The pace of his dictation was slow. At one point, struggling to find the right phrasing, he said, “Something feels a bit rough today—I’m not speaking smoothly, not fluently (he emphasized the word).” He requested his own article, “How Should We Reorganize the RCI?” For about three or four minutes, he read it silently to himself. Then he continued briefly, deciding to conclude by saying that he would summon us again at 4, 5, or perhaps even 6 p.m.
February 5, evening (entry by M. I. Glässer).
Vladimir Ilyich summoned Lidia Aleksandrovna at 7 p.m.—just ten minutes before—but since she was unwell, he called me instead.
He asked whether we had already begun reviewing the materials from the Georgian Commission and by what deadline we expected to complete this work. I replied that we had distributed the materials and started reading them; as for the deadline, we were counting on the time he had granted us—three weeks. He asked how we planned to read through the materials. I said that we had come to the conclusion that each of us needed to read everything.
“Is this your unanimous decision?” — “Yes.” Vladimir Ilyich began calculating how much time remained until the congress. When I mentioned that there were still a month and 25 days left, he said that while this might be sufficient, it could prove too short if additional information became necessary—especially considering that the journey to the Caucasus would take even longer. He asked how much each of us was actually working, and suggested that if needed, we could bring Volodicheva and Shushanik Manuchar’yants into the effort. Then he asked whether our decision to have everyone read everything was merely formal. I replied that we had never formally recorded this decision anywhere—and asked

DIARY OF THE DUTY SECRETARIES OF V. I. LENIN
Perhaps he has some reservations about this? He said that, of course, he would like us all to read everything—but the tasks assigned to our commission are, in fact, quite vague. On the one hand, he does not wish to overburden us; on the other hand, we must anticipate that, as our work progresses, the need may arise to expand these assignments. It may even become necessary to obtain additional materials. He asked—
where the materials are stored, how we make use of them, whether we will compile a concise summary of all the materials and then have it typed up (“Would that be too much of a burden?”). In the end, Vladimir Ilyich decided that within the coming week we would determine how much time we would need and in what form we would develop these materials—and that, in the process of development, we should be guided by the imperative to produce a comprehensive overview of all data pertaining to the issues outlined by the commission, as well as to those questions he himself would pose to us as our work unfolded.
Then Vladimir Ilyich instructed us to inquire of Popov regarding the status of the materials being prepared for the census conducted by the Central Statistical Administration in Petrograd, Moscow, and Kharkov (if, in the latter case, a census had indeed been carried out), as well as the timeline he envisioned for completing these materials and whether they would ultimately be published. Vladimir Ilyich hoped to see these materials in print before the Party Congress; he believed that, given the exceptional importance of this census, the materials ought to be made public—even though the data from previous censuses had never been published, and Popov had merely sent tables to Vladimir Ilyich. Accordingly, we should place particular emphasis on pressing Popov, sending him an official request on this matter after first having discussed it verbally.
The entire session lasted twenty minutes. It was the first time I had seen Vladimir Ilyich since the onset of his illness. As far as I could tell, he looked well and energetic—only slightly paler than before. He spoke slowly, gesturing with his left hand while idly tapping the fingers of his right. There was no compress on his head.

DIARY OF THE DUTY SECRETARIES OF V. I. LENIN
February 6, evening (recorded by M. A. Volodicheva).
Vladimir Ilyich summoned us between 7 and 9 o’clock. I arrived at around 1:30. He began by reading aloud his essay “Better Fewer, But Better.” The amendments he had made in red ink put Vladimir Ilyich in a cheerful mood—not the amendments themselves, but the very manner in which they were introduced! At his request, the essay was not rewritten; instead, the initially transcribed draft was simply supplemented with corrections that Vladimir Ilyich made as he read. However, since the amendments were entered not by a proofreader, but in the ordinary manner of a secretary, this proved inconvenient for Vladimir Ilyich during subsequent readings. For the future, he requested that everything be rewritten from scratch.
As he reviewed the essay, Vladimir Ilyich paused frequently, speaking of his long-standing habit of writing rather than dictating; of how, now, he understood why his stenographers had never fully satisfied him (he said, “had never satisfied him”); of how he had grown accustomed to seeing his manuscript before his eyes, to pausing and pondering in moments of difficulty, to revisiting the passage where he had “become stuck,” to pacing back and forth across the room—or even simply slipping away for a walk. He admitted that even now, he often felt the urge to grab a pencil and write, or to make corrections himself.
He recalled how, back in 1918, he had tried to dictate his essay to Trotsky’s stenographer—and how, whenever he felt himself “getting bogged down,” he would, in embarrassment, press onward at an “incredible” pace, only to find himself compelled to burn the entire manuscript. It was then that he sat down to write “The Renegade Kautsky” himself, a work of 290 pages that he ultimately found entirely satisfactory.
Vladimir Ilyich spoke of all this in a remarkably cheerful tone, laughing with his infectious, hearty laugh. I had never seen him in such a buoyant mood before. He went on to dictate part of the same essay. The dictation lasted fifteen to twenty minutes. He ended the dictation on his own.
February 7 (recorded by L. A. Fotieva).
Vladimir Ilyich summoned us. He spoke on three matters.

DIARY OF THE DUTY SECRETARIES OF V. I. LENIN
1) Regarding the results of the census (he gave the task of proofreading the census collection—and asked me to show it to him. I replied that this would require Stalin’s permission).
2) Concerning the Georgian Commission. He inquired about the current state of the work, when we would finish reading, when we would convene, and so on.
3) Concerning the Workers’ and Peasants’ Inspection. He wondered whether the collegium intended to adopt any immediate decision—“to take a step of state significance”—or whether it would postpone such action until the Congress. He mentioned that he was writing an article, but that it was not coming together easily; nonetheless, he planned to refine it further and, before submitting it for publication, to have Tsurupa read it. He instructed us to ask Tsurupa whether he should hurry with this article or not.
Today, Kozhevnikov reported that Vladimir Ilyich’s health had improved dramatically. He was already moving his hand and beginning to believe that he would regain full control over it.
February 7, morning (recorded by M. A. Volodicheva).
I visited Vladimir Ilyich at around 12:30. He said that he would be willing to dictate on any topic, postponing the scheduling of those topics until later. He dictated on two subjects: first, how might party institutions and Soviet bodies be brought into closer alignment? And second, is it advisable to integrate educational activities with official duties?
At the words “and the more profound this revolution…,” he paused, repeating them several times, clearly hesitating; then, asking for help in recalling what he had written previously, he laughed and said:
“It seems I’ve finally gotten completely stuck here—so please note: I’ve hit a dead end right at this very spot!”
When I remarked that, for a short period of time, I was inevitably a source of inconvenience to him—since he would soon be able to write again on his own—he replied, “Well, who knows when that will be!” His voice was weary, tinged with a note of pain.
February 7, evening (recorded by M. A. Volodicheva).
Vladimir Ilyich summoned us between 7 and 9 o’clock. I arrived at around 1:30. He finished the sentence he had left unfinished the previous day. He said, “Now I’ll try to develop the following theme.”
He immediately inquired about the topics he had already outlined earlier—291—and once those topics had been reviewed, he noted that about…

DIARY OF THE ON-DUTY SECRETARIES OF V. I. LENIN
He had forgotten one of them—namely, the relationship between the All-Union Council of Trade Unions and the broader work of popular education.
He dictated the general section of his article “Better Fewer, But Better.” He dictated quickly and with ease, without hesitation, gesturing as he spoke.
When he finished, he said that he would later attempt to integrate this section into the article as a whole.
He was exhausted. In the evening, I learned from Nadezhda Konstantinovna that tomorrow Vladimir Ilyich would not be dictating; he intended to read instead.
February 9 (entry by L. A. Fotieva).
In the morning, Vladimir Ilyich summoned me. He confirmed that he would submit the question of the Workers’ and Peasants’ Inspection to the Congress. As for the census—he was concerned about whether the tables would be printed in the form most conducive to their intended purpose. He agreed to my suggestion that the task of verification be entrusted to Kamenev or Tsyurupa. He assigned the task to Krzhizhanovsky and Svidersky. His mood and appearance were excellent. He remarked that Ferster was inclined to allow him visits earlier than the newspapers did. When I pointed out that, from a medical standpoint, it would indeed seem better to do so, he paused thoughtfully and replied very seriously that, in his view, it would actually be worse from a medical perspective—after all, once the printed material is read, the matter is settled, whereas a visit gives rise to an exchange of views.
February 9, morning (entry by M. A. Volodicheva).
Vladimir Ilyich summoned me at one o’clock. He said that the newly rewritten version satisfied him even more. He read the portion of the article he had dictated the previous day, making almost no corrections. When he finished, he said, “It seems to me that this has turned out quite well.” I got the impression that he was extremely pleased with this part of his article. He asked me to record the concluding sentence: “This is how I connect…” and so on. It was around one o’clock.
February 9, evening.
Vladimir Ilyich summoned Lidia Aleksandrovna. Nadezhda Konstantinovna had asked that she be given the general section of the article, since Vladimir Ilyich had entrusted her with reading it.

DIARY OF THE ON-DUTY SECRETARIES OF V. I. LENIN
February 10 (entry by L. A. Fotieva).
He summoned me at seven o’clock. He instructed that the article “Better Fewer, But Better” be passed on to Tsyurupa for reading, if possible within a two‑day period.
He inquired about the books on List 292. His appearance was weary; he spoke with great difficulty, often losing his train of thought and stumbling over his words. He wore a compress on his head.
February 12 (entry by L. A. Fotieva).
Vladimir Ilyich was feeling worse. He suffered from severe headaches. He called me in for a few minutes.
According to Maria Ilyinichna, the doctors had upset him so deeply that his lips were trembling. The day before, Ferster had stated that he was categorically forbidden from reading newspapers, receiving visitors, or engaging in political discourse. When asked what he meant by the latter, Ferster replied, “Well, for example, you’re interested in the question of the census of Soviet employees.”
Apparently, this heightened awareness on the part of the physicians had distressed Vladimir Ilyich. Moreover, it seemed to Vladimir Ilyich that it was not the doctors who were issuing directives to the Central Committee—but rather the Central Committee that had given instructions to the doctors.
He spoke with me about the same three topics as always, again citing his headaches. Joking, I told him that I would treat him through suggestion and that in just two days his headaches would be gone.
February 14 (entry by L. A. Fotieva).
Vladimir Ilyich summoned me at one o’clock. His head no longer hurt. He said that he was completely healthy. He explained that his illness was of a nervous nature—and that sometimes he was entirely well, his mind perfectly clear, while at other times he felt much worse. For this reason, we had to hurry with his assignments, since he was determined to see certain matters brought to fruition before the Congress and hoped to succeed. If we delayed too long and thereby jeopardized the work, he would be exceedingly displeased. The doctors arrived, and we were forced to interrupt our conversation.
February 14, evening.
He summoned me again. He struggled to speak, clearly exhausted. Once more, he addressed the three points of his assignments.

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He went into particularly detailed discussion of the issue that concerned him most—the Georgian question. He urged us to move swiftly and gave several specific instructions.
March 5 (entry by M. A. Volodicheva).
Vladimir Ilyich summoned me around twelve o’clock. He asked that I record two letters: one to Trotsky 294, the other to Stalin 295; he instructed that the first letter be delivered personally to Trotsky by telephone, and that we inform him of the reply as soon as possible. As for the second letter, he asked that we postpone it for the time being, saying that something was not going well for him that day. He was feeling unwell.
March 6 (entry by M. A. Volodicheva).
He inquired about the response to the first letter (the telephone reply had been stenographed). He read the second letter (to Stalin) and requested that it be delivered in person, hand to hand, so that we might receive a reply directly. He dictated a letter to the Mdivanis 296. He was feeling unwell. Nadezhda Konstantinovna asked that this letter not be sent to Stalin—which was duly done on the 6th. But on the 7th, I stated that I must carry out Vladimir Ilyich’s instruction. She conferred with Kamenev, and the letter was delivered to Stalin and Kamenev, then to Zinoviev when he returned from Petrograd. The reply from Stalin was received immediately after he had received Vladimir Ilyich’s letter (I had personally delivered the letter to Stalin, and he dictated his reply to Vladimir Ilyich). The letter to Vladimir Ilyich had not yet been delivered, because he fell ill 297.
First published in 1963 in the journal Questions of the History of the CPSU, No. 2.

Printed according to the records of the secretaries.

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