Do not press an enemy at bay. Prince Fu Ch'ai said: "Wild beasts, when at bay, fight desperately. How much more is this true of men! If they know there is no alternative, they will fight to the death.
Sun TzuKnow the enemy, know yourself; your victory will never be endangered. Know the ground, know the weather; your victory will then be total.
Sun TzuAnd therefore those skilled in war bring the enemy to the field of battle and are not brought there by him.
Sun Tzu