If you are situated at a great distance from the enemy, and the strength of the two armies is equal, it is not easy to provoke a battle, and fighting will be to your disadvantage.

The business of a general is to kick away the ladder behind soldiers when they have climbed up a height.

Therefore a victorious army first wins and then seeks battle; a defeated army first battles and then seeks victory.

Those whose upper and lower ranks have the same desire are victorious.

Thus, though I have heard of successful military operations that were clumsy but swift, cleverness has never been seen associated with long delays.

When the enemy is at ease, be able to weary him; when well fed, to starve him; when at rest, to make him move. Appear at places to which he must hasten; move swiftly where he does not expect you.

Opportunities multiply as they are seized.