To a surrounded enemy, you must leave a way of escape.

The opportunity of defeating the enemy is provided by the enemy himself.

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.

It is the business of a general to be quiet and thus ensure secrecy; upright and just, and thus maintain order.

The good fighter is able to secure himself against defeat, but cannot make certain of defeating the enemy.

Thus the skilful general conducts his army just as though he were leading a single man, willy-nilly, by the hand.

Whoever is first in the field and awaits the coming of the enemy, will be fresh for the fight; whoever is second in the field and has to hasten to battle will arrive exhausted.