There are not more than five primary colours, yet in combination they produce more hues than can ever been seen.

Do not engage an enemy more powerful than you. And if it is unavoidable and you do have to engage, then make sure you engage it on your terms, not on your enemy's terms.

When strong, avoid them. If of high morale, depress them. Seem humble to fill them with conceit. If at ease, exhaust them. If united, separate them. Attack their weaknesses. Emerge to their surprise.

In the midst of difficulties we are always ready to seize an advantage, we may extricate ourselves from misfortune.

Convince your enemy that he will gain very little by attacking you; this will diminish his enthusiasm

The value of time, that is of being a little ahead of your opponent, often provides greater advantage than superior numbers or greater resources.

Be subtle! be subtle! and use your spies for every kind of business.