Telegram Welcoming Qiu Ao to Beijing

(November 17, 1949)

Mr. Cheng Songyun[2] in Changsha:

I have respectfully received both telegrams from Hankou and Changsha. I am greatly relieved to learn of your safe arrival. Mr. Qiu Yishan is most welcome to come to Beijing to favor us with his guidance. However, given Mr. Qiu’s frail health, I wonder whether traveling north in winter would be appropriate. To avoid the cold, it might be better for him to come north at the beginning of spring. If this is not a concern, he may set out at any time. Please discuss and decide with Mr. Qiu and inform me accordingly.

Mao Zedong
Xude

Mr. Qiu Yishan of the Hunan Provincial Government:

I have respectfully read both of your successive telegrams. You are most welcome to come to Beijing to favor us with your guidance. Please kindly inform us by telegram of the date of your departure.

Mao Zedong
Xuxiao

[1] Qiu Ao, courtesy name Yishan, was a prominent figure in Hunan and at the time served as a member of the Hunan Provincial People’s Military and Political Committee.
[2] Cheng Songyun, i.e., Cheng Qian, was at the time chairman of the Hunan Provincial People’s Military and Political Committee.