Peng and Deng:[1]

(1) It is now learned that the puppet 6th and 8th Divisions advanced from Tokchon toward Huichon on the 20th. (2) Whether our 40th Army can reach Tokchon ahead of the enemy in time—if that is not possible, it seems advisable to deploy an ambush in the vicinity of Huichon. Please decide at your discretion. (3) It is best for the 42nd Army to proceed according to your original deployment.

Mao Zedong
21:00, 21 October

[1] Peng and Deng refer to Peng Dehuai and Deng Hua, who at the time served respectively as Commander and Political Commissar of the Chinese People’s Volunteers and Commander and Political Commissar of the 13th Army Corps.

226
On withholding news of the Volunteers for four to five days