There is nothing more difficult than tactical maneuvering. The difficult consists in turning the devious into the direct, and misfortune into gain. Thus, to take a long and circuitous route after enticing the enemy out of the way, and though starting after him to contrive to reach the goal before him, shows knowledge of the artifice of deviation.

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

Management of many is the same as management of few. It is a matter of organization.

To perceive victory when it is known to all is not really skilful. Everyone calls victory in battle good, but it is not really good.

Being unconquerable lies with yourself; being conquerable lies with your enemy.

Of all rewards none [is] more liberal than those given to secret agents.

In a position of this sort, even though the enemy should offer us an attractive bait, it will be advisable not to stir forth, but rather to retreat, thus enticing the enemy in his turn; then, when part of his army has come out, we may deliver our attack with advantage.