If those who are sent to draw water begin by drinking themselves, the army is suffering from thirst.

To Subdue an enemy without fighting is the greatest of skills

They [spies] cannot be properly managed without benevolence and straightforwardness.

If the enemy has occupied them before you, do not follow him, but retreat and try to entice him away.

When the enemy's envoy's speak in humble terms, but continues his preparations, he will advance. When their language is deceptive but the enemy pretentiously advances, he will retreat. When the envoys speak in apologetic terms, he wishes a respite. When without a previous understanding the enemy asks for a truce, he is plotting. When the enemy sees an advantage but does not advance to seize it, he is fatigued.

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

Unhappy is the fate of one who tries to win his battles and succeed in his attacks without cultivating the spirit of enterprise, for the result is waste of time and general stagnation.