Lenin was always considered a creature of the gutter, and a thinker of the most phillistine ignorance. He is outdoing even this reputation.
Lenin rejects Russia. Not only does he reject the Russian Republic, but he rejects Russia. As for the people, he does not recognise them. Recognising only classes and estates, he calls on all Russians to think only on their narrow class interests and advantages. He does not, and does not want to, see a unified people.
Whenever I learn that someone’s fond of me, I’m surprised; so too when I learn that someone dislikes me; but what surprises me more than anything is to learn of someone’s indifference.
We went on an “excursion”. This “excursion” was for Years 2 and 3. It was really, really enjoyable. We were in the vicinity of Sparrow Hills. We took breakfast with us and breakfasted al fresco.
What awful reversals! All the generals have turned and fled, and none can command the demoralised and unreined army. While the government sits throughout the night, the soldiers run away and desert. Kerensky, with much bitterness, has pronounced: “I only regret that I did not die two months ago, when I could have shaken off my mortal coil with the illusion that my country was free. Who do you wish to be - free citizens, or a nation of brigands?”
Some say: Leave things as they are, put still greater trust in the Provisional Government. The threat to resign may be a trick calculated to make the Soviet say: We trust you still more. Others propose a coalition cabinet. We propose a third way: A complete change of the Soviets’ policy, no confidence in the capitalists, and the transfer of all power to the Soviets of Workers’ and Soldiers’ Deputies. A change of personalities will give nothing; the whole policy must be changed.
What will we eat - I have no idea. There is nowhere to buy anything, it's impossible to get anything anywhere. God will provide!
Miliukov gave a farewell luncheon to me, to which the Marquis Carlotti, Albert Thomas, Sazonov, Neratov, Tatischev, etc., were invited.
Gutchkov's resignation and alarmist protest have made them all very gloomy. See more