Reply to Zhang Wentian’s Telegram[1]

(September 15, 1942)

When examining the situation of the struggle between the enemy and ourselves, if possible, please select a specific enemy unit, for example a battalion, and conduct a detailed investigation (its composition, equipment, operations, political work, etc.). If time permits, it is also hoped that you will select a battalion of our own army for a detailed investigation. In this way, the investigation will not be biased toward the rural areas. Regarding commerce, has there been any investigation?

[1] This is the main content of Mao Zedong’s telegram in reply to Zhang Wentian on the issue of investigation and research.