Energy may be likened to the bending of a crossbow; decision, to the releasing of a trigger.

It is only one who is thoroughly acquainted with the evils of war that can thoroughly understand the profitable way of carrying it on.

Hold out baits to entice the enemy. Feign disorder, and crush him.

Ground which can be abandoned but is hard to re-occupy is called entangling.

Of all those in the army close to the commander, none is more intimate than the secret agent.

In warfare, first lay plans which will ensure victory, and then lead your army to battle; if you will not begin with stratagem but rely on brute strength alone, victory will no longer be assured.

We cannot enter into alliance with neighbouring princes until we are acquainted with their designs. We are not fit to lead an army on the march unless we are familiar with the face of the country - its mountains and forests, its pitfalls and precipices, its marshes and swamps. We shall be unable to turn natural advantages to account unless we make use of local guides.