George Matulaitis Journal

221 working together for the common good of their country. Here, on the other hand, people do not even want to recognize each other’s existence: the Belorussians cannot even be mentioned in some quarters. We cannot go on living like this, nor can we hope to achieve anything worthwhile. Finally, I told this gentleman: “I have not interfered up to now, nor do I intend to do so in the future. A bishop must be bishop for all; he must serve everyone equally. My position here is very complicat- ed. Moreover, I must be cautious, since my flock are divided on the question of who will control Vilnius because each faction wants it for themselves. Generally speaking, I can only be grateful for the efforts of those who are determined to protect the people from disorder, lawlessness, and looting.” I also advised the man to be cautious himself. I told him that for several weeks now I have been hearing how the Polish forces are trying to get organized. The Bolsheviks, I added, are aware of this as well. Consequently, the Poles should not needlessly draw misfortune down upon themselves and others. Just as the Polish Legionnaires’ previous attempt to take Vilnius seemed to me a trivial venture, so now this ostensibly underground operation conducted by the Polish forces bodes ill for the people. The Bolsheviks will very likely uncover the operation and fill the prisons, especially since these officers are making too much noise. This is not serious work, but merely the fantasy of hotheads and dreamers. The man then said that he had already selected those persons who would take power in the city and in the entire country. He also told me that he was very anxious lest the Germans seize Vilnius. He did not mention the Lithuanians. In reply, I said that I thought it not very important who takes the city temporarily. Its ultimate fate depends on what the Peace Conference in Paris decides. Then I added that, as far as I am concerned, I do not intend to leave or to go into hiding. I have advised others not to flee, nor do I myself intend to go anywhere. Let it be as God wills. So many people are suffering in prison, and I too will suffer if I am arrested.