To Zhang Xueliang and Yang Hucheng on Mobilizing the Masses to Oppose the Central Army’s Attack
(December 16, 1936)

Messrs. Hanqing and Hucheng:

In order to persist in and achieve victory in the decisive battle, we earnestly request that you pay attention to mobilizing the masses, primarily mobilizing the people in the counties along the Longhai Railway, the Xi’an–Lanzhou Highway, and the Xiliang Highway, to support the Anti-Japanese Allied Forces, support the Xi’an Uprising, oppose the Central Army’s attack, defend the anti-Japanese capital, and defend the anti-Japanese base areas. Whether this is appropriate, we respectfully await your considered judgment.

Mao Zedong
December 16