Hence the saying: The enlightened ruler lays his plans well ahead; the good general cultivates his resources.

Thus those skilled in war subdue the enemy's army without battle .... They conquer by strategy.

Act after having made assessments. The one who first knows the measure of far and near wins - this is the rule of armed struggle.

O divine art of subtlety and secrecy!

Bestow rewards without regard to rule, issue orders without regard to previous arrangements; and you will be able to handle a whole army as though you had to do with but a single man.

He who is not sage and wise, humane and just, cannot use secret agent.s. And he who is not delicate and subtle cannot get the truth out of them.

All battles are won before they start.