The wise soldier, once in motion, does not waver, and is never at a loss. As has been said: "Know thyself; know the enemy; fear not for victory." Also, if the season and the opportunity be realised, and the ground known, complete victory is certain. XI THE NINE GROUNDS Sun the Master said:-- In respect to the conduct of war there are:-- Distracting ground; disturbing ground; ground of contention; intersecting ground; path-ridden ground; deeply-involved ground; difficult ground; enclosed ground; death ground. At all times, when the prince fights in his own territory, it is called distracting[13] ground. That ground a short way inside the enemy's border is called disturbing ground. Ground giving advantage to whichever side is in possession, is called ground of contention. Ground to which either side has access, is called intersecting ground. Ground between three provinces first possession of which enables the peoples of the earth to be controlled, is called path-ridden ground. The interior of the enemy's country with many of his fortified towns in rear, is called deeply-involved ground. Mountain and forest, precipices, ravines, marsh and swamp, all places where passage is hard, are called difficult ground. A narrow entrance and winding outlet, where a small number can oppose a large force, is called enclosed ground. That ground where delay means disaster, is called death ground. Wherefore, do not fight on distracting ground; do not linger on disturbing ground. If the enemy be in possession of disputed ground, do not attack. In intersecting ground, do not interrupt the highways. At the crossing of highways, cultivate intercourse. When deeply involved, levy and store up the enemy's property. Quickly depart from difficult ground. On enclosed ground, use stratagem. On death ground, fight. The skilful fighters of old were at pains to disconnect the enemy's front and rear; they cut asunder small and large forces of the enemy; prevented mutual help between his officers and men; spread mistrust between high and low. They scattered the enemy, and prevented him from concentrating; if his soldiers were assembled, they were without unity. If there be a chance of victory, move; if there be no chance of success, stand fast. If I were asked how a powerful and united force of the enemy should be met, I would say: lay hands on what the enemy cherishes and he will conform to our desires. In war, above all, speed sustains the spirit of the troops. Strike before the enemy is ready; and attack his unpreparedness from an unexpected quarter. With regard to war in foreign lands. When strangers in a far country the soldiers are united and are proof against defeat. Plunder fertile plains so that the army is fed; be careful of the health of the soldiers; do not tire them uselessly; unite their minds; store up strength; plan well and secretly. If there be no refuge the soldiers will not fly from death.