Several Points of Instruction Regarding Chen Yi

(August 11, 1967)

The materials are not sinister; his temperament is straightforward and candid.

Chen Yi is a good comrade. Regarding Chen Yi, we must criticize him first and then protect him.

We must protect him. He is the commander of the Third Field Army. At present, there is no one to handle the work of the Foreign Minister; we still need him to do it.

How can Chen Yi be overthrown? Chen Yi has followed me for forty years and has rendered such great meritorious service. Chen Yi has now lost twenty jin of weight; otherwise, I would take him along to receive foreign guests.