Outwardly Display Unity, Inwardly Assign Specific Responsibilities[1]

(April 14, 1936)

We have taken note of your telegram of 12:00 on the 13th[2] and fully agree. Regarding the relations between the Zhang and Yang units, you are to agree to make contact and provide guidance, and keep us informed of the handling of the situation at all times. We shall generally not establish relations with them. Outwardly display unity, inwardly assign specific responsibilities.

[1] This is the main content of a telegram from Mao Zedong and Peng Dehuai, Commander of the First Front Army of the Red Army, to Zhou Enlai.

[2] In a telegram dated April 13 to Mao Zedong and Peng Dehuai, Zhou Enlai stated: The call sign for radio communication between the rear area and Zhang is to be delivered by Liu Ding; the front area will continue to maintain radio communication with Wang Yizhe.