29.XII.1918

To Comrades Myasnikov and Kalmanovich.

Today the Belarusians depart for Smolensk. They are bringing a manifesto with them. The request of the CC of the Party and of Lenin is to receive them as younger brothers, perhaps still inexperienced, but ready to give their lives to Party and Soviet work. The proclamation of the government must take place in Minsk. We ask that you communicate the date of the proclamation by direct wire; otherwise inconsistencies may result. The Belarusians have agreed to the arrangement known to you, with two reservations: 1) The chairman does not take a portfolio, and consequently an additional member is introduced into the government, who is to take the portfolio for foreign affairs -- Vsevolod Falsky; 2) Deputies of the government members are appointed (no official announcement is required): Belarusians -- Zybko as deputy to Reingold for finance, Getsov as deputy to Pikel, Zybak as deputy to Rozental, Netsetsky as deputy to Savitsky, Droko-Drokon as deputy for military affairs, administrator of government affairs -- Pyotr Klysh (the latter will not be a member of the government). The CC of the Party has agreed to these reservations and urgently asks you, without unnecessary discussion (there is no time to lose), to agree with them. In the coming days the Central Executive Committee will apparently announce the liquidation of Obliskomzap and the annulment of the known resolution on the territory of Obliskomzap. It goes without saying that all resources and communications are at the disposal of the government of Belarus. On behalf of the CC of the Party,

I. Stalin.

29/XII

Source: Bolshevik Leadership. Correspondence. 1912-1927, pp. 71-72.

RGASPI. F. 558. Op. 1. D. 377. L. 2.