All wars are won or lost before they are ever fought.

No ruler should put troops into the field merely to gratify his own spleen; no general should fight a battle simply out of pique.

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

Humble words and increased preparations are signs that the enemy is about to advance. Violent language and driving forward as if to the attack are signs that he will retreat.

Those who excel in war first cultivate their own humanity and and maintain their laws and institutions. By these means they make their governments invincible.

All wars are won or lost before they are ever fought.

I will be able to forecast which side will be victorious and which defeated.