Deployment for the Northward Movement of the New Fourth Army in Southern Anhui[1]

(December 14, 1940)

Ye, Xiang:

(1) In order to ensure that our army’s movement proceeds without incident, Chiang Kai-shek has indeed ordered Gu Zhutong to notify the various armies to provide assistance; therefore, there will be no obstruction, but you must still pay attention to vigilance. (2) Chiang has set the deadline for completing the movement by the end of December. We are currently negotiating for a one-month extension, but you must still complete the movement as far as possible within this month. (3) Promptly request from Gu Zhutong the pay and ammunition due to you. (4) Chiang, citing that the New Fourth Army is currently moving, does not agree to Deputy Army Commander Xiang coming to Chongqing; therefore, the Central Committee has decided that Xiang should cross the river with the troops and then proceed to Yan’an via northern China. (5) Regarding Xiao Yao’s movements, the decision shall be based on whether the guerrilla zone in southern Jiangsu is convenient for guiding the southeastern provinces. If such conditions exist, it would be advantageous for him to go to southern Jiangsu with Zeng Shan; if not possible, then he should go north of the river. (6) It is appropriate for both Ye and Xiang to go to eastern Anhui with the main force. The movement of supplies, materials, and rear-area organs to southern Jiangsu may be directed by Zhou Zikun and Xiao Yao.

The Central Committee

The 14th

[1] This is a telegram drafted by Mao Zedong for the Secretariat of the Central Committee of the Communist Party of China concerning the deployment for the northward movement of the New Fourth Army in southern Anhui, addressed to Ying and Xiang Ying.