The counter-revolution of the landlords and capitalists has been broken, but it has not yet been crushed. The Kornilov generals have been beaten, but the triumph of the revolution is not yet assured. Why?

Because, instead of implacably fighting the enemy, the compromisers are negotiating with him. Because, instead of breaking with the landlords and capitalists, the defencists are arranging a compromise with them.

Because, instead of outlawing them, the government is inviting them into the Cabinet.

In South Russia, General Kaledin is raising a rebellion against the revolution, yet his friend, General Alexeyev, has been appointed Chief of Staff. In the capital of Russia, Milyukov’s party is openly supporting counter-revolution, yet its representatives, the Maklakovs and Kishkins, are invited into the Cabinet.

It is time to stop this crime against the revolution! It is time to say resolutely and irrevocably that enemies must be fought, not compromised with!

Against the landlords and capitalists, against the generals and bankers; for the interests of the peoples of Russia, for peace, for liberty, for land!—that is our slogan.

A break with the bourgeoisie and landlords—that is the first task.

Formation of a government of workers and peasants— that is the second task.

Rabochy, No. 9,

August 31, 1917

Editorial