Page:Michael Farbman - Russia & the Struggle for Peace (1918).djvu/147



N the official account of the first sitting of the Soviet of Workers' and Soldiers' Delegates, we read ("Izvestia," No. 1): "Notwithstanding the enthusiasm with which those present were filled, the proceedings were strictly businesslike. The meeting was only interrupted a few times by the welcoming of representatives of different army units who had risen in defence of liberty and revolution." This account is exceedingly characteristic, and might refer equally well to the whole of the first period of the Revolution. In spite of the great enthusiasm and exaltation of feeling which prevailed, the Revolution was distinguished by seriousness and restraint and "realism." Only now and then was the businesslike progress of the Revolution lightened for a moment by flashes of enthusiasm and joy. The first of these manifestations of triumph and exaltation took place three days after the formation of the Soviet, when the Soviet decided to end the strike and recommence the work in the munition factories. It was the first great sign of the power of the revolutionary democracy. It was the first great trial of the discipline and organisation of the Petrograd proletariat. The decision of the Soviet to commence work again so soon made a great impression. At the same time the Soviet recognised the urgency of proceeding with the elaboration of the economic demands of the workers. Six days later, they were able to announce the great victory of the working classes, the establishment of the 8-hour day and the recognition of Shop-stewards' Committees ("Soviety starost").

But the greatest outbreaks of enthusiasm were in connection with the return of the revolutionary exiles from Siberia and from abroad. First was the celebration of