Sun Tzu

A clever general, therefore, avoids an army when its spirit is keen, but attacks it when it is sluggish and inclined to return.

Danger has a bracing effect.

Be stern in the council-chamber, [Show no weakness, and insist on your plans being ratified by the sovereign.] so that you may control the situation.

There are not more than five primary colors_ (blue, yellow,_ red, white, and black), yet in combination they produce more hues than can ever been seen.

When an invading force crosses a river in its onward march, do not advance to meet it in mid-stream._ It will be best to let half the army get across, and then deliver your attack.

Ground on which we can only be saved from destruction by fighting without delay, is desperate ground.

do many calculations lead to victory, and few calculations to defeat

If his forces are united, separate them.

To begin by bluster, but afterwards to take fright at the enemy's numbers, shows a supreme lack of intelligence.

who does not know the evils of war cannot appreciate its benefits

Attack him where he is unprepared, appear where you are not expected.

Whether in an advantageous position or a disadvantageous one, the opposite state should be always present to your mind.

You can ensure the safety of your defense if you only hold positions that cannot be attacked.

So long as victory can be attained,_ stupid haste is preferable to clever dilatoriness.

These military devices, leading to victory, must not be divulged beforehand.

At first, then, exhibit the coyness of a maiden,_ until the enemy gives you an opening; afterwards emulate the rapidity of a running hare, and it will be too late for the enemy to oppose you.

Conceal your dispositions, and your condition will remain secret, which leads to victory;_ show your dispositions, and your condition will become patent, which leads to defeat.

first lay plans which will ensure victory, and then lead your army to battle;_ if you will not begin with stratagem but rely on brute strength alone, victory will no longer be assured