On the field of battle, the spoken word does not carry far enough; hence the institution of gongs and drums... banners and flags. Gongs and drums, banners and flags, are means whereby the ears and eyes of the host may be focused on one particular point.

Ultimate excellence lies not in winning every battle, but in defeating the enemy without ever fighting.

Regard your soldiers as your children, and they will follow you into the deepest valleys; look upon them as your own beloved sons, and they will stand by you even unto death.

In war, numbers alone confer no advantage. Do not advance relying on sheer military power.

Quickness is the essence of the war.

Pretend to be weak, so your enemy may grow arrogant.

Of all those in the army close to the commander none is more intimate than the secret agent; of all rewards none more liberal than those given to secret agents; of all matters none is more confidential than those relating to secret operations.