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 country; use stratagem in mountainous and wooded country; on death ground, fight. There are always roads that must be avoided; forces that must not be attacked; castles that must not be besieged; ground that must not be chosen for encounter; orders from the lord that must not be obeyed. The general who knows the Nine Changes understands the use of troops; on the contrary, he who does not understand them, can make no use of his topographical knowledge. In the management of armies, if the art of the Nine Changes be understood, a knowledge of the Five Advantages is of no avail. The wise man considers well both advantage and disadvantage. He sees a way out of adversity, and on the day of victory to danger is not blind. In reducing an enemy to submission, inflict all possible damage upon him; make him undertake useless adventures; also make neighbouring rulers move as you would desire them by tempting them with gain. Wherefore in the conduct of war do not depend on the enemy's not coming, but rely on your own preparations; do not count on the enemy not attacking your fortress, but leave nothing undefended. Generals must be on their guard against these five dangerous faults:-- Blind impetuosity, which leads to death. Over-cautiousness, which leads to capture. Quick temper, which brings insult. A too rigid propriety, which invites disgrace. Over-regard for the troops, which causes inconvenience. These five faults in the leader are disastrous in war. The overthrow of the army and the slaughter of the general arise from them. Therefore they must be carefully considered. IX MOVEMENT OF TROOPS Sun the Master said:-- Touching the disposal of troops and observation of the enemy in relation to mountain warfare:-- Cross mountains and camp in valleys, selecting positions of safety. Place the army on high ground, and avoid an enemy in high places. In relation to water:-- After crossing waters, pass on immediately to a distance. When the enemy is crossing a stream, do not meet and engage him in the waters, but strike when half his force has passed over. Do not advance on an enemy near water, but place the army on high ground, and in safety. Do not fight when the enemy is between the army and the source of the river. With regard to marshes:--