The good fighter is able to secure himself against defeat, but cannot make certain of defeating the enemy.

Defeat the enemies strategy.

Like the sun and moon, they end but to begin anew; like the four seasons, they pass away to return once more.

From a position of this sort, if the enemy is unprepared, you may sally forth and defeat him. But if the enemy is prepared for your coming, and you fail to defeat him, then, return being impossible, disaster will ensue.

The general who advances without coveting fame and retreats without fearing disgrace, whose only thought is to protect his country and do good service for his sovereign, is the jewel of the kingdom.

Too frequent rewards indicate that the general is at the end of his resources; too frequent punishments that he is in acute distress.

Order or disorder depends on organisation and direction; courage or cowardice on circumstances; strength or weakness on tactical dispositions.