The book on extensive historical material traces the history of the formation and development of secret diplomacy and intelligence from the moment of the emergence of Russian statehood until 1917. The main attention is paid to a little-studied period in the history of intelligence - from the beginning of the 9th to the end of the 17th centuries. The book is written on the basis of a wide range of sources and literature. Contains biographical essays on the most prominent figures in Russian diplomacy and intelligence. The book is provided with detailed notes and attachments.