It is the business of a general to be quiet and thus ensure secrecy; upright and just, and thus maintain order.

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.

No ruler should put troops into the field merely to gratify his own spleen; no general should fight a battle simply out of pique.

O divine art of subtlety and secrecy!

All warfare is based on deception. If your enemy is superior, evade him. If angry, irritate him. If equally matched, fight and if not: split and re-evaluate.

In all fighting, the direct method may be used for joining battle, but indirect methods will be needed in order to secure victory.

And therefore only the enlightened sovereign and the worthy general who are able to use the most intelligent people as agents are certain to achieve great things.