Leon Trotsky: Letter to August Mougeot

July 31, 1933

[Writing of Leon Trotsky, Vol. 13. Supplement (1929-1933), New York 1979, p. 261 f., title: “Barbusse’s Cynicism”]

Dear Comrade Mougeot:

I have just received my mail from Constantinople, Marseilles, etc., and I find in this bundle your very amiable letter and your correspondence with Barbusse. One meets with a good many specimens of the political cynic in life, especially among intellectuals of the uppermost “elite,” but really I cannot help being struck by the example of Barbusse. This man who has fraternized with Vandervelde, Renner and others in his Monde declares us to be “counterrevolutionary,” and a rather intimate discussion — presumably an enjoyable one for him — with the State Publishing House of the USSR. But so much for that.

My son has informed me of your doubts and misgivings about the story of my relations with Rosmer. One is never impartial when dealing with a conflict to which one has been party, but I think Rosmer would be well advised to show our correspondence to friends whom he wishes to inform about the true development of the conflict. It would give you a chance to form your own opinion as to how the blame is really shared.

Now that I am in France, I hope we will be able to meet; I would be very happy to see you.

My best regards.

Yours,

L. Trotsky