Combat the Pro-Japanese Clique’s Attempt to Stir Up Civil War[1]

(January 1, 1937)

Comrade Hannian:

The peaceful resolution of the Xi’an Incident is extremely beneficial to national affairs. However, we have heard that the pro-Japanese clique is vigorously obstructing the implementation of Generalissimo Chiang’s new policy, refusing to carry out troop withdrawal orders, and attempting to stir up civil war once again. This only benefits the Political Study Clique[2] and Japan, and will cause immense harm to the nation, the state, and the Kuomintang. The Communist Party and the Red Army resolutely stand on the position of peacefully resolving national affairs, support all reforms by the Kuomintang that are conducive to saving the nation from subjugation and ensuring its survival, and are willing to consult with Chen Lifu, Song Ziwen, Sun Zhesheng, Feng Huanzhang,[3] and other parties to unite as one in finding ways to salvage the critical situation. For today, all people of conscience should unite and impose sanctions against the pro-Japanese clique’s schemes to harm the nation. We hope you will act according to this policy, promptly contact Mr. Chen Lifu, and report the results by telegram.

Furthermore, the entire Red Army has been assembled and is undergoing training, quietly awaiting the delineation of defense areas and preparing to resist Japan. It absolutely has no intention of harassing the Central Army or encroaching upon Kuomintang-controlled regions.

Mao, Zhou
Dongwu