This does not mean that the enemy is to be allowed to escape. The object is to make him believe that there is a road to safety, and thus prevent his fighting with the courage of despair. After that, you may crush him.

Thus the skilful general conducts his army just as though he were leading a single man, willy-nilly, by the hand.

When the general is weak and without authority; when his orders are not clear and distinct; when there are no fixed duties assigned to officers and men, and the ranks are formed in a slovenly haphazard manner, the result is utter disorganization.

Rapidity is the essence of war.

To see victory only when it is within the ken of the common herd is not the acme of excellence.

War is a matter of vital importance to the state; the province of life or death; the road to survival or ruin. It is mandatory that it be thoroughly studied.

What is of supreme importance in war is to attack the enemy's strategy.