In yechidus, the Rebbe gave him peculiar instructions.
"Travel to Moscow and meet with several chasidim who have legitimate permits allowing them to purchase merchandise. Try to obtain for yourself such documents bearing your name. Once you have them, return to Cuta'isi and present yourself to the NKVD! You should tell them that because during the interrogation they were not happy with your method of income, you therefore chose to go into business, and that's why you left so suddenly -- to immediately buy merchandise."
The Rebbe than gave him a note that contained specific instructions for the elder chasid Reb Boruch-Sholom, [4] who would make the necessary connection with the businessmen for him. He then warned him to ensure the note be destroyed immediately after reading it.
So, after Shabbat, he travelled to Moscow. Arriving there he noticed that the train station was packed with people, many of them secret agents of the NKVD. Much caution was needed to not raise suspicion. He took the first trolley in the direction of the city, taking a seat next to a bearded elderly Jew. After eyeing each other for some time the elder broke the ice.
"From where does this Jew come?" he questioned.
"Kostroma." The chasid replied.
The joy on the other man's face was clear. Realizing that this was his chance, the chasid probed. "Perhaps you know Reb Boruch Sholom?"
"Boruch Sholom? that’s me!" the elderly Jew responded.
