A story circulated a few weeks ago that former president Jiang Zemin had tendered his resignation to the Communist Party Central Committee, asking to be relieved from his last remaining post - chairman of the Central Military Committee.
In the letter, it was claimed, he cited old age and failing health for his decision.
Party chief Hu Jintao duly put the matter to the standing committee which, by unanimous vote, turned it down on the grounds that Mr Jiang's wisdom and service were indispensable for the nation.
Some party elders, unhappy that Mr Jiang continued hanging on to power, have suggested he should relinquish all his official posts.
Mr Jiang may have used the resignation ploy to strengthen his legitimacy as well as test the loyalty of Mr Hu, who is said to be eager to assume full control as the supremo of the party, the state and the military.
It made interesting grist for the rumour mill, but it could not be proved or disproved either way.
Then, on September 4, the website of the People's Daily inadvertently added a footnote to this speculation.