The dance of battle is always played to the same impatient rhythm. What begins in a surge of violent motion is always reduced to the perfectly still.

War is a matter of vital importance to the state.

In making tactical dispositions, the highest pitch you can attain is to conceal them.

If you are far from the enemy, make him believe you are near.

Where the army is, prices are high; when prices rise the wealth of the people is exhausted.

If your enemy is superior, evade him

Attack is the secret of defense; defense is the planning of an attack.