To Peng Xuefeng and Others[1]

(September 4, 1937)

The actions of the military and political figures in the four provinces of Hebei, Chahar, Shanxi, and Suiyuan are completely divorced from the masses. After suffering defeats, they have lost the will to win. A tremendous crisis is brewing along the entire North China front. Taking advantage of the Red Army's new arrival to bolster their morale and to bring about a considerable change in their practices is an extremely good opportunity. Please ask Zhou Enlai to consider meeting with them and holding detailed discussions.

[1] This is the main content of a telegram from Mao Zedong to Peng Xuefeng to be relayed to Zhou Enlai.