Page:Ossendowski - The Shadow of the Gloomy East.djvu/211

 CONCLUSION

HAD no intention of writing on the preceding pages a historical sketch of Russia, whether Tsarist or Soviet. I have recorded simply a number of features of the shady life and psychology of that people which, while remaining behind the curtain of actuality, nevertheless throws a lurid light upon its mind and gives one more cue as to its true character.

I am convinced that civilised mankind will be compelled to go to Russia, not with Trade Missions and sound currency, but with the cross, the learning, and the will, which would constrain men who have lost their reason, their honour, and their country, to work out their salvation. It is a stupendous duty laid on mankind, but there Is no other way. And I think that my sketches on the shadow of the gloomy East will conduce in a certain degree towards the fulfilment of that duty.

By history and nature the Russians are akin to the peoples of the East, whose most sinister and criminal traits they exhibit. The brighter side of the psychology and morals of the Eastern peoples, requiring a greater spiritual elevation and rectitude, is alien to the Russians.

Disregard and ill-treatment of their womenfolk, be