Dear Sir!

As far as I know from reports in the foreign press, I long ago departed this sinful world and moved on to the next. Since one cannot but treat the reports of the foreign press with trust, if one does not wish to be struck from the list of civilized people, I ask you to believe these reports and not to disturb my peace in the quiet of the world beyond.

With respect,

I. STALIN

October 26, 1936.

Kansas City Star. December 10, 1943.