He must be able to mystify his officers and men by false reports and appearances, and thus keep them in total ignorance.
The consummate leader cultivates the moral law, and strictly adheres to method and discipline; thus it is in his power to control success.
Success in warfare is gained by carefully accommodating ourselves to the enemy's purpose.
As water has no constant form, there are in war no constant conditions.
There is no instance of a nation benefiting from prolonged warfare.
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.