Telegram to Zhu De and Zhang Guotao[1]

(September 17, 1936)

Our 1st Division has reached the area around Danjiaji, at the northern end of Jingning and Huining. The main force of the Fourth Front Red Army must, within three days, advance and occupy Jieshipu and the sector to its west. Otherwise, Hu’s forces, using motor vehicles, will gain control of Jieshipu within two or three days. Yesterday, our field army wiped out the main force of the 6th Cavalry Division north of Guyuan, and has now ordered it to advance south to coordinate with you. Do not let this opportunity slip; please pay the utmost attention.

[1] This is the main content of a telegram sent by Mao Zedong and Zhou Enlai to Zhu De and Zhang Guotao.