Universal courage and unity depend on good management.
The best results from both the weak and strong are obtained by a proper use of the ground.
The skilful warrior can lead his army, as a man leads another by the hand, because he places it in a desperate position.
The general should be calm, inscrutable, just and prudent. He should keep his officers and men in ignorance of his plans, and inform no one of any changes or fresh departures. By changing his camps, and taking devious and unexpected routes, his plans cannot be guessed.
As one taking away the ladder from under those mounted upon the roof, so acts the general when his men are assembled to fight. He penetrates into the heart of the enemy’s country and then divulges his plans. He drives the army hither and thither like a flock of sheep, knowing not whither they go.
Therefore the general should assemble the armies, and place them in a desperate position.
