Letter to Yang Kaizhi and Li Congde
(April 13. 1950)

Source: Shuxin, p. 355.

For more information on Yang Kaizhi, see text Oct. 9, 1949(1), note 1. Li Congde is q

Yang’s wife.

Comrades Zizhen and Congde:'
I have received your letter. I am very happy that you are now working in
the provincial government.’ I hope that you will be positive and diligent and

Mao made this short address before the Sixth Session of the Central People’s Govern-ment Council voted on, and ratified, the Sino-Soviet Treaty of Friendship and Alli- +


APRIL — JUNE 1950 / 75

I have much to show by way of achievements. My son Anying is returning
w Hunan to celebrate the old lady’s birthday’ and visit his mother’s grave. At
the same time he will come and see you. Please give him the benefit of your
‘wisdom and teach him.

With most sincere regards for your recent well-being.

Mao Zedong
April 13, 1950

Notes

1. Zizhen is Yang Kaizhi’s zi (honorific name). See text Oct. 15, 1949, note 1, for meaning
and significance. See also text Nov. 17, 1949, note 2.
2. This refers to the provincial government of Hunan. Mao, Yang, and Li were all natives of

that province.
3, Mao here used the term Lao tai tai which is a respectful way of saying “old lady.” He was
referring to Yang’s mother, who was Mao’s mother-in-law; see text Oct. 9, 1949(1), note 1.