Chapter 92 Lin Biao fell to his death emotionally out of control and asked for two pistols

Mao continued: “On September 13, 1971, the Lin Biao incident occurred, and I suffered a major blow. I lost confidence and was plagued by a sense of frustration and fear. I often had sleepless nights, calling for Zhang Yaoci to come quickly and asking where Wang Dongxing was. People around me noticed that I was restless, easily angered, suspicious, and fearful. I often asked Zhang Yufeng, Zhang Yao’ci, and others about the reactions and discussions concerning me outside. I urged them to speak freely and honestly, but they always gave me the same response: ‘The entire party, the entire army, and the entire nation have infinite love and loyalty to you, Elder.’ Sometimes I would burst into laughter and say, ‘I’m not even as good as an elementary school student.’ Sometimes I would wave my hand and say, ‘It’s all nonsense. Leave! Just go!’ I understood that there were doubts about me down below, even the Vice Commander-in-Chief had turned against me. Let’s see how the Cultural Revolution ends, shall we?”

Journalist: “After Lin Biao’s death, did you lose control due to the shock?”

Mao: “After Lin Biao’s incident, I became suspicious of people around me. I asked Wang Dongxing to give me two handguns, one to be placed beside the sofa in my study and the other beside my bed. I said I needed them for self-defense, to protect myself. Wang Dongxing sought instructions from Zhou Enlai, and Zhou instructed him to comply but not to provide ammunition. Following Zhou’s instructions, Wang Dongxing became extra cautious about my mood and instructed Zhang Yufeng and others by my side not to argue back, not to dissuade me, and not to leave when I got angry, cursed at people, threw things, or tore documents. They were to let me vent, curse, and create a mess until I calmed down before tidying up. Although I obtained the handguns without bullets, they increased my sense of security. At least I could use them to intimidate people. In the past, even the barber used a razor to trim my beard, but now I absolutely forbid the use of razors. I fear someone might bribe the barber to cut my throat and end my life. As for those who worry that I might commit suicide with the handguns, it’s unnecessary. I will fight to the end and never commit suicide.”