These cadres of ours have all been tempered over a long period. We still need people to step forward. The current situation is that as soon as one steps forward, one is struck down. Our affairs require someone to take command. Can the Red Guards take command? They may rise to the stage today, but they could be struck down tomorrow. The reason is that they are not politically mature. We now have much work to do to make those principal cadres step forward, even if they are of the Li Yuanhong type; it would be fine for them to come out for two years. The Red Guards will not do; they have not been tempered. For such great matters, they cannot be trusted.

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　　We must cherish the cadres and support the revolutionary leading cadres in stepping forward. It will not do for the revolutionary young generals to take command now; there is a process of cultivation. But the young generals are lovable and are the successors to the cause of the proletarian revolution.

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　　Throughout the country, more first-in-commands should step forward.