Ji Pingnan felt perplexed when he received the phone call. His primary mission in Beiping was to defend the city against potential attacks by Red Party forces. Maintaining order within the city was the responsibility of the Garrison Headquarters; the regular garrison rarely involved itself, and even when it was required, an official order from Headquarters was necessary.
However, before the New Year, Feng Xiuli, Deputy Commander of the Fourth Corps, had specifically warned him before departing Beiping for Nanjing to celebrate the holiday: the affairs of the Yangtze Company were of the utmost importance, and he should pay close attention to whatever Wang Qunyou requested.
"General Manager Wang, I certainly have no objections, but the garrison only has eight thousand men. Even with the Garrison Headquarters added to the mix, sealing off the entire city is no easy task. Furthermore, moving troops into the city requires an order from Headquarters. I must consult with Director Li."
Chapter 230