Zhou:

A. Hu, Zeng, and Guan are preparing to move south. It is judged that they will either take the Haiyuan-Jingyuan route or the Guyuan-Zhenyuan route, but they will not take the Qingyang route. At present, Zhou and Kong have withdrawn to Jinji and are further moving toward Zhongningbao. After Gu Zhutong arrives in Ningxia, he will still need to consult with Hu and Guan. It is judged that it will take a week before they can begin operations.

B. The following disposition is proposed:
1. At the four points of Guyuan, Pingliang, Xifeng, and Zhenyuan, the Northeast Army shall position four divisions to build blockhouses and stockpile grain, in preparation for a defense to the death. If necessary, one more division shall be added at Guyuan and Xifeng. Ma Hongbin shall defend the line from Heichengzhen to Liwangbao.
2. Qingyang and Heshui shall be occupied by Xiao Jinguang.
3. Luo Binghui shall be the commander, Song Shilun the deputy commander, and Song Renqiong the political commissar, commanding the 28th Army, the 32nd Army, the 1st Cavalry Regiment, and the main force of the 29th Army to follow the enemy’s advance and threaten the enemy’s flank and rear.
4. Preparations shall be made to transfer the Fourth Front Army toward Lanzhou and Pingliang, with Lanzhou supplying its bedding, clothing, and ammunition. How this is to be done, awaiting your reply.

Mao Zedong
23rd, 12:00

--- Notes

[1] Referring to Zhou Xiangchu and Kong Lingxun.