If this is long delayed, weapons are blunted and morale depressed.

To a surrounded enemy, you must leave a way of escape.

Be the first to seize intersecting ground, that is ground which lies the intersections of borders or intersections of main thoroughfares of commerce and travel. Your occupation of it gives you access to all who border it and all who would covet it. On intersecting ground, if you establish alliances you are safe, if you lose alliances you are in peril.

When you are ignorant of the enemy but know yourself, your chances of winning or losing are equal.

Appear at points which the enemy must hasten to defend; march swiftly to places where you are not expected.

Maneuvering with an army is advantageous; with an undisciplined multitude, most dangerous.

Keep their friends close and their enemies closer.