The peasants' attitude is utterly bad in light of the famine and the fact that they are losing their last cows through collectivization -- as a result the kolkhoznik [collective farm] has neither bread nor milk. I saw all this with my own eyes and am not exaggerating. People are starving, living on food substitutes, they grow weaker, and naturally, under such circumstances, their mood is hostile. I have not seen such an attitude as is now found in the villages, due to famine and the loss of the last cows . . . in a long time. . . . Upon arriving in Moscow, I will try to see Stalin and inform him, or if he cannot spare the time, I will write him a letter. . . . [We know that Stalin sees further than anyone]. But in order for him to see beyond everyone, one must, with absolute objectivity, relate to him those facts which are based on reality. I will attempt to do this upon my arrival in Moscow, and I will tell him what I have seen with my own eyes.
Which of these best restates the author’s view of the famine crisis?
He thinks the peasants will produce more food, ending the famine.
He believes that once Stalin learns of the famine, help will come.
He thinks the famine is necessary to unify support for Communism.
He blames Stalin for the famine, and thinks he should be overthrown.