First occupy Zhangye and Wuwei, then occupy Qinghai and Ningxia [1]
(August 30, 1949)
Peng, Zhang:
We have seen your telegram of the 29th to Wang and Zhang [2] and learned that Ma [3] bandit forces are retreating in two columns, with the possibility of withdrawing into Xinjiang. We have also received similar information from the Ili side. For this reason, please consider postponing the advance on both the Qinghai and Ningxia fronts. First occupy Zhangye and Wuwei, then occupy Qinghai and Ningxia. What is your opinion? Awaiting your reply.
Central Military Commission
30th day, 8th month

[1] This was a telegram drafted by Mao Zedong for the Central Military Commission of the CPC Central Committee, addressed to Peng Dehuai, commander and political commissar of the First Field Army, and Zhang Zongxun, its deputy commander.
[2] Wang and Zhang refer to Wang Zhen, then commander and political commissar of the First Corps of the First Field Army, and Zhang Xiqin, its chief of staff.
[3] Ma refers to Ma Bufang and Ma Hongkui, then respectively chief and deputy chief of the Kuomintang's Northwest Military Administration Office.