Talk with Xiao Jinguang[1]

(December 1931)

For this army unit, we must strive to establish Party leadership and strengthen political and ideological work in accordance with the spirit of the Gutian Conference resolution. As for the officers who have risen in revolt, those who wish to stay are welcome. We will organize their studies, send them to schools, and conduct cadre education. Those who request to leave will be given a send-off, provided with travel expenses—coming and going are both voluntary.

[1] In mid-December 1931, Mao Zedong spoke with Xiao Jinguang, who was about to assume the post of political commissar of the Fifth Army Group of the Red Army, setting forth the basic principles for uniting with and building the Fifth Army Group. This is part of that talk.