I received your letter.

You are right that we do not always appreciate the enormous importance of personal trips and getting to know people and affairs in person. We would gain a great deal (and the work would gain especially) if we visited the provinces more often and became acquainted with people at their work. Let us take heed of the experience of your trip.

I held out for a long time and did not want to go on leave, but then I gave in (I was very tired). By all indications, my health is improving.

Well, see you soon. Regards.

Yours, I. Stalin.

24/IX-31.

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Source: Soviet Leadership. Correspondence. 1928-1941. Moscow, 1999, p. 161.

RGASPI F. 74. Op. 2. D. 38. L. 46.