All wars are won or lost before they are ever fought.
One mark of a great soldier is that he fight on his own terms or fights not at all.
Move not unless you see an advantage; use not your troops unless there is something to be gained; fight not unless the position is critical.
Of all rewards none [is] more liberal than those given to secret agents.
All warfare is based on deception. There is no place where espionage is not used. Offer the enemy bait to lure him.
Humble words and increased preparations are signs that the enemy is about to advance. Violent language and driving forward as if to the attack are signs that he will retreat.