wave, nor the serried ranks of battle spread, but patiently await your time.
Do not attack an enemy on high ground, nor one who has high ground at his back. Do not pursue an enemy who is imitating flight; do not attack a spirited enemy.
If the enemy offer an allurement, do not take it.
Do not interfere with an enemy who has struck camp, and is about to retire. When surrounding an enemy, allow him an outlet. Do not press a desperate enemy.
These are the methods of employing troops.
VIII
THE NINE CHANGES
Sun the Master said:—
In general, the procedure of war is:— the Leader, having received orders from his lord, assembles the armies.
Do not camp on marshy or low-lying ground; enter into friendly relations with neighbouring states; do not linger in a far
