Memorandum to Endo Saburo
(September 5, 1956)

Source: Endo Saburo, Ni-chu senso to wa (Tokyo, 1974), frontispiece.

In August and early September 1956, Endo led a group of Japanese Army veterans of the
Sino-Japanese War on a visit to China. They interviewed Mao on September 4. (See
preceding text.) At the meeting, Endo presented Mao with a samurai sword as a gift. The
following is a note, written by Mao himself, that accompanied the gift Mao made to Endo
in return.

On receiving a generous gift of a treasured object from Mr. Endo Saburo, I,
having nothing of comparable value to give in return, respectfully present this
painting of bamboo by Qi Baishi¹ as a gift.

Mao Zedong
September 5, 1956

This is to be presented to Mr. Endo Saburo.²

Notes
1. See text Oct. 5, 1952, vol. I, source note.
2. Mao wrote this note in the classical style, which accounts for the rather peculiar format
of address.