Our current policy orientation is to reduce friction and to emphasize unity. In addition to telegraphing Hu Fu, Ye [Ting], and Xiang [Ying] to reduce the tension in
relations with Han [Deqin] and Li [Pinxian], tensions should also be reduced in
relations with Shen [Honglie] and Qin [Qirong] in Shandong. As long as Shen's
and Qin's forces have not attacked us, we will not make moves against them either.
Both sides should maintain the status quo, and each should guard its present positions. Only when the other side attacks us will we retaliate. Please consider this
and reply by telegram.

[Peng] Dehuai, Zhu Rui, Chen [Guang], and Luo [Ronghuan]:

Mao [Zedong]
Zhu [De]
Wang [Jiaxiang]

Our source for this text is Mao Zedong junshi wenji, Vol. 2, pp. 560-61, where it is reproduced from a copy in the Central Archives.