The spot where we intend to fight must not be made known; for then the enemy will have to prepare against a possible attack at several different points; and his forces being thus distributed in many directions, the numbers we shall have to face at any given point will be proportionately few.

Rapidity is the essence of war.

Thus, though I have heard of successful military operations that were clumsy but swift, cleverness has never been seen associated with long delays.

Probe him and learn where his strength is abundant and where deficient.

Appraise war in terms of the fundamental factors. The first of these factors is moral influence.

If we do not wish to fight, we can prevent the enemy from engaging us even though the lines of our encampment be merely traced out on the ground. All we need to do is to throw something odd and unaccountable in his way.

A sovereign of high character and intelligence must be able to know the right man, should place the responsibility on him, and expect results.