When envoys are sent with compliments in their mouths, it is a sign that the enemy wishes for a truce.

Plan for what is difficult while it is easy, do what is great while it is small.

To maintain an army at a distance causes the people to be impoverished.

To persuade your enemy to (retreat) before the fight is to defeat them even before the battle begins. An enemy made ally is no longer an enemy.

The control of large numbers is possible, and like unto that of small numbers, if we subdivide them.

If asked how to cope with a great host of the enemy in orderly array and on the point of marching to the attack, I should say: "Begin by seizing something which your opponent holds dear; then he will be amenable to your will." Rapidity is the essence of war: take advantage of the enemy's unreadiness, make your way by unexpected routes, and attack unguarded spots.

What the ancients called a clever fighter is one who not only wins, but excels in winning with ease.