In the midst of difficulties we are always ready to seize an advantage, we may extricate ourselves from misfortune.

He must be able to mystify his officers and men by false reports and appearances, and thus keep them in total ignorance.

So the important thing in a military operation is victory, not persistence.

When the leader is morally weak and his discipline not strict, when his instructions and guidance are not enlightened, when there are no consistent rules, neighboring rulers will take advantage of this.

So in war, the way is to avoid what is strong and to strike at what is weak. Water shapes its course according to the nature of the ground over which it flows; the soldier works out his victory in relation to the foe whom he is facing.

The ultimate in disposing one's troops is to be without ascertainable shape. Then the most penetrating spies cannot pry in nor can the wise lay plans against you.

What is essential in war is victory, not prolonged operations.