Page:The Proletarian Revolution in Russia - Lenin, Trotsky and Chicherin - ed. Louis C. Fraina (1918).djvu/61

 the capitalists retain control, while the Councils have an "Advisory Commission."

D. Sole authority must be in the hands of the Councils of Workers, Soldiers and Peasants. The entire propaganda, agitation and organization of millions upon millions of people must at once be directed toward this end. (Anarchy is a complete negation of government authority, but the Councils of W. S. and P. Delegates are also a government authority.)

7.—Shall we support the Provisional Government?

A and B. Unquestionably, since it is the only means at this moment of guarding the interests of the capitalists.

C. Yes, but with the condition that it should carry out its agreement with the Councils of Workers, Soldiers and Peasants and should consult with the "Advisory Commission."

D. No; let the capitalists support the Provisional Government. We must prepare the whole people for the complete and sole authority of the Councils of Workers', Soldiers' and Peasants' Delegates.

8.—Are we for a single authority or for dual authority?

A and B. For sole power in the hands of the capitalists and landholders.

C. For dual authority. The Councils of Workers', Soldiers' and Peasants' Delegates to exercise "control" over the Provisional Government. But it would be pernicious to consider the possibility that this control might prove illusory.

D. For sole power in the hands of the Councils of Workers, Soldiers and Peasants, from top to bottom over the whole country.

9.—Shall a Constituent Assembly be called?

A. Not necessary, for it might injure the landholders. Suppose the peasants at the Constituent Assembly should decide to take away the land of the landholders?

B. Yes, but without stipulation of time. Furthermore, the learned professors should be consulted; first, because Bebel has already pointed out that jurists are the most reactionary people in the world; and second, because the experience of all revolutions shows that the cause of the people is lost when it is entrusted to the hands of professors.