In war, practice dissimulation and you will succeed.

Unless you enter the tiger's lair, you cannot get hold of the tiger's cub's.

Plan for what is difficult while it is easy, do what is great while it is small.

At first, then, exhibit the coyness of a maiden, until the enemy gives you an opening; afterwards emulate the rapidity of a running hare, and it will be too late for the enemy to oppose you.

So it is that good warriors take their stance on ground where they cannot lose, and do not overlook conditions that make an opponent prone to defeat.

The enlightened ruler is heedful, and the good general full of caution.

All war is deception.