To the Various Central Bureaus and Sub-Bureaus[1]

(July 10, 1946)

It is necessary to recognize the dual character of Chiang Kai-shek’s current approach: On the one hand, the overall international and domestic situation compels him not to wage large-scale fighting across the whole country, and in some places insufficient troop strength also makes large-scale fighting impossible; hence he professes to want a ceasefire and peace. The strength of our Party and our resolute struggle are the most important factors forcing him to act in this way. On the other hand, against the Fifth Division and along the Jiaoji Railway, large-scale fighting is already underway; against Jiangsu-Anhui, large-scale fighting is about to begin; and against northern Henan and Rehe, preparations for fighting are also being made—all under the name of self-defense. This situation of fighting while talking, with fighting as the primary aspect, will continue for at least a period to come. All localities should pay full attention to smashing Chiang Kai-shek’s offensives.

[1] This is the main content of a telegram drafted by Mao Zedong for the Central Committee of the Communist Party of China to the various Central Bureaus and Sub-Bureaus, conveying information about an order transmitted by Marshall from Chiang Kai-shek to all commanders nationwide, which used self-defense as a pretext for waging civil war.