Reply to Chen Yi and Tan Zhenlin
(March 20, 1949)

We do not know whether capturing Liangpu is necessary for the Yangtze-crossing operation. Please check and report immediately. In our view, it seems unnecessary. If it is indeed unnecessary, then except for one army corps which will continue to monitor Liangpu and await orders, the other army corps may begin capturing the strongholds on the northern bank as early as April 2 (the second day after the Nanjing representatives arrive in Beiping), and complete this task by April 5 or 6. Then use one more week to open up ports and arrange boats. In this way, the entire army can begin crossing the Yangtze on April 13 or 14, which would be advantageous for the negotiations.

--- Notes

[1] This is the main content of a telegram drafted by Mao Zedong for the Central Military Commission of the Communist Party of China in reply to Chen Yi and Tan Zhenlin concerning their suggestion to postpone the date of the Yangtze-crossing operation.