If desirous of attacking an army; of besieging a fortress; or of killing a certain person; first of all, learn the names of the general in charge; of his right-hand[1] men; of those who introduce visitors to the Presence; of the gate keeper and the sentries. Then set the spies to watch them.
Seek out the enemy’s spies who come to Spy on us; give them money; cause them to be lodged and cared for; and convert them to the service. Through them we are enabled to obtain spies among the enemy's villagers and officials.
By means of the converted spy, we can construct a false story for the death spy to carry to the enemy.
It is through the converted spy that we are able to use the five varieties, to their utmost advantage; therefore he must be liberally treated.
In ancient times the rise to power of the province of Yin was due to Ichih, who was sent to the country of Hsia.
- ↑ Literally, right and left men, i.e. they who sat on either side
