Do not press an enemy at bay. Prince Fu Ch'ai said: "Wild beasts, when at bay, fight desperately. How much more is this true of men! If they know there is no alternative, they will fight to the death.

Bring war material with you from home, but forage on the enemy... use the conquered foe to augment one's own strength.

The natural formation of the country is the soldier's best ally

Do not press an enemy at bay.

The general who wins a battle makes many calculations in his temple ere the battle is fought. The general who loses a battle makes but few calculations beforehand. Thus do many calculations lead to victory, and few calculations to defeat: how much more no calculation at all! It is by attention to this point that I can foresee who is likely to win or lose.

If you fight with all your might, there is a chance of life; where as death is certain if you cling to your corner

All war is deception.