(November 15, 1937)

Zhou [Enlai], and for the information of Zhu [De], Peng [Dehuai], and Ren [Bishi]:

1. We have received Zhou's telegram sent on the 13th between 9:00 and 11:00 P.M.
2. The working principle in Shanxi at present is to "further carry out the principle of independence and self-reliance within the united front" because, in the
face of the attacks by the Japanese bandits, the Guomindang as well as Yan [Xishan],
Huang [Shaohong], and Wei [Lihuang] have basically lost the spirit as well as the
capacity to hold out in Shanxi. It is essential that we "take a step forward" in
assuming responsibility ourselves, reducing our expectations of and reliance on
them, and acting with "independence and self-reliance." But at the same time, this
is still independence and self-reliance within the united front, rather than absolute
independence and self-reliance. As regards major matters, we should still discuss
them with the Guomindang as well as with Yan, Huang, and Wei. For example, the
various points listed in Zhou's telegram, and Zhu and Peng's request for reinforcements are entirely correct. The only thing is not to cherish too much hope or rely
too much on them, for they are unable to keep many of their promises. Our plan
should be based on the premise that even if they fail to reply or their promises are
unreliable, we will still be able to continue.
3. We agree that when you return to Yan'an after the meeting of Zhu, Peng, and
Ren with Yan, Huang, and Wei, it is better to take the road passing through Yanchang.
Please ask Zhu, Peng, and Ren to cross the Fen River quickly for a discussion. The
best place [to meet] would be at Xixian.

Mao Zedong

² The reference is to the 716th Regiment of the 358th Brigade of the 120th Division of
the Eighth Route Army, of which He Bingyan was the commander and Liao Hansheng was
the political commissar.
³ The reference is to the 343rd Brigade of the 115th Division of the Eighth Route Army,
commanded by Chen Guang.
⁴ The reference is to the 386th Brigade of the 129th Division of the Eighth Route Army,
commanded by Chen Geng.
⁵ The reference is to the Independent Regiment of the 115th Division of the Eighth
Route Army, commanded by Yang Chengwu.

Our source for this text is Mao Zedong wenji, Vol. 2, pp. 70–71, where it is reproduced from
a copy in the Central Archives.