Inscription for Zhang Shengliang[1]

(1938)

Study diligently.

Mao Zedong

Be brave, steadfast, and calm. Learn in the course of struggle. Be ready at all times to sacrifice everything for the cause of national liberation.

[1] Zhang Shengliang was then studying at the Anti-Japanese Military and Political University. The first inscription—the four characters "Study diligently"—was written by Mao Zedong in Zhang Shengliang's notebook, along with his signature. The second was a personal inscription left by Mao Zedong on Zhang Shengliang's graduation certificate.