Comrades Chen, Zhang, and Li; Comrades Liu, Deng, and Bo; Comrades Zhang, Deng, Su, and Tan:

(1) The judgment and deployment in the Chen-Zhang-Li telegram of zhen-zi are both correct. There should be preparations for counterattacks against the Guangxi diehards’ offensive on Huaibei, but the main forces in southern Shandong should still not move south at this time, so as to avoid falling into a passive position.

(2) The forces under Liu and Deng should also conduct training and consolidation on the spot and await opportunities; they must not move rashly. (3) Ning Zhou’s message of wu-wen states: The great battle in northern Jiangsu is about to begin. Chiang’s troops will move south from Xuzhou, east along the Jinpu Railway, and north from the area north of the Yangtze, launching simultaneous actions from three directions, first seeking to resolve northern Jiangsu, and then opening up the Jinpu and Pinghan railways. (4) Under these circumstances, when the enemy launches attacks on our central Jiangsu and northern Jiangsu, our various units in central Jiangsu and northern Jiangsu should first start fighting on the interior lines. It would be best to first win a few victorious battles and discern the enemy’s weaknesses, after which our main forces from southern Shandong and northern Henan can join the battle; this would be most advantageous. (5) Shandong’s deployment regarding the Jiaoji Railway, to rest, consolidate, await opportunities, and strictly avoid rash battles, is also correct. (6) Make long-term plans in all matters and strive for final victory.

Central Military Commission
Wu-yuan