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.

An army may be likened to water, for just as flowing water avoids the heights and hastens to the lowlands, so an army avoids strength and strikes weakness.

If quick, I survive. If not quick, I am lost. This is death.

Where the army is, prices are high; when prices rise the wealth of the people is exhausted.

So a military force has no constant formation, water has no constant shape: the ability to gain victory by changing and adapting according to the opponent is called genius.

And regulation entails organizational effectiveness, a chain of command, and a structure for logistical support.

One who has few must prepare against the enemy; one who has many makes the enemy prepare against him.