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Stalin decided to test Party members' loyalty. He summoned a Russian, a Ukrainian and a Jew and ordered them to jump from a tenth floor window.

The Russian went to the window, looked down and begged: 'Comrade Stalin, have mercy, I have a family, children . . .'

Stalin flew into a rage: 'Arrest him!' he ordered.

The Ukrainian walked up to the window, looked down and fell on his knees: 'Have mercy, Comrade Stalin, I'm the only breadwinner in the family . . .'

'Arrest him!' ordered Stalin.

The Jew took off his jacket, took off his trousers, took off his watch and handed them all to Stalin. Then he said: 'Please, give these to my wife . . .' and jumped out of the window.

But Stalin had only been joking and there were nets below so the Jew was not smashed to smithereens. In fact, he was brought back to Stalin.

'Good fellow, Comrade Rabinovich,' said Stalin. 'You have proved yourself a devoted Party member and for that you will receive a medal and I shall see that you get a better job. But, let me ask you, what gave you the courage? After all life, no matter what, is very dear to us.'

Rabinovich was touched.

I'll tell you frankly, Comrade Stalin. Even death is better than this kind of a life.'