Comrade Molotov!

Please look over the attached letter from Shklovsky.

After all, there is a decision of the Central Committee — isn't there? — a written and formal one (Politburo) — "to work at the NKVT in Berlin."

Lutovnov is sabotaging this decision, and now Stomonaakov as well. Why? I don't know exactly, but I can guess: Lutovnov accuses Lenin of "favoritism" toward Shklovsky (!!). Some people are discontented that the decision of the Orgburo not to let Shklovsky go abroad has been overturned by the Politburo 365.

A ridiculous network of intrigues has formed. Shklovsky is absolutely unsuited to conditions in Russia. His family (many children, a sick wife) has not adapted in Russia. It's nothing but trouble here. The man is absolutely honest, a Bolshevik since the first (1905) revolution, I knew him personally, Zinoviev knew him, all the Bolsheviks in Switzerland knew him. Chicherin is satisfied with his work abroad. Krasin too.

Lutovnov's sabotage (and now Stomonaakov's) — it's simply a monstrous wrecking of a Central Committee decision. Discontented? Appeal to the plenum or to the Control Commission — that is your sacred right. They have not appealed, but are secretly wrecking it and driving Shklovsky practically to thoughts of suicide. They refuse to understand that what is taking place is a vile, dishonorable persecution of a man, conducted underhand.

In the NKVT there are thieves everywhere; Kopp has clearly bred thieves. Kopp, it seems, will have to be removed.

All the more reason to value honest people who know both language and trade.

I ask you — either through the Central Committee secretariat (or perhaps — it would be more convenient? — to direct Solts to the Control Commission) to impress upon Stomonaakov seriously: stop sabotaging, or else you'll bring expulsion from the party upon yourself.

Let him apologize to Shklovsky and stop the sabotage.

Scribble two words.

With comradely greetings, Lenin

Written in June, not before the 4th, 1921

Published for the first time, from the manuscript