Chapter 9 · The Army on the March

Sun Tzu said: Pass quickly over mountains, and keep in the neighborhood of valleys. After crossing a river, you should get far away from it. When an invading force crosses a river, do not meet it in mid-stream — let half the army get across, and then deliver your attack. When the enemy is close at hand and remains quiet, he is relying on the natural strength of his position. Humble words and increased preparations are signs that the enemy is about to advance. Violent language and driving forward are signs that he will retreat. Soldiers must be treated in the first instance with humanity, but kept under control by means of iron discipline. This is a certain road to victory.