"Those who use the five arms[20] with skill, who are clever, strong and quick, and careless of the enemy, should be given rank and decoration, and used to decide the victory. Their parents and families should be cared for, encouraged by rewards, and kept in fear of punishment. These men consolidate the battle array; their presence causes endurance. "If these men be well selected, double their number can be defeated." And Lord Wen said:-- "It is good!" Wu the Master said:-- "In the estimation of the enemy there are eight cases when, without consulting the oracles, he may be attacked. "First, an enemy who, in great wind and cold, has risen early, started forth across ice and rivers, and braved stress and hardships. "Second, an enemy who, in the height of summer, and in great heat, has risen early, has travelled incessantly, is hungry and without water, and is striving to reach a distance. "Third, an enemy who has been encamped long in one place, who is without provisions, when the farmers are vexed and indignant, who has suffered frequent calamities, and whose officers are unable to establish confidence. "Fourth, when the enemy's funds are exhausted, fuel and fodder scarce; when the heavens have been overcast by long continued rain; when there is the desire to loot, but no place to loot withal. "Fifth, when their numbers are few; when water is scarce; when men and horses are scourged by pestilence, and from no quarter is succour at hand. "Sixth, when night falls, and the way is yet far; when officers and men are worn out and fearful, weary and without food, and have laid aside their armour and are resting. "Seventh, when the general's authority is weak, the officials false, and the soldiers unsettled; when their army has been alarmed, and no help is forthcoming. "Eighth, when the battle formation is not yet fixed, or camp pitched; when climbing a hill, or passing through a difficult place; when half is hidden and half exposed. "An enemy in these situations may be smitten without hesitation. "There are six enemies, that, without consulting oracles, should be avoided. "First, wide and vast territories, and a large and rich population. "Second, where the officials care for the people, and bestow bountiful favours and rewards. "Third, where rewards are well deserved, punishment accurately apportioned, and operations undertaken only when the time is fitting. "Fourth, where merit is recognised and given rank, wise men appointed, and ability employed. "Fifth, where the troops are many and their weapons excellent. "Sixth, when help is at hand on every side, or from a powerful ally. "For, if the enemy excel in the foregoing, he must be avoided without hesitation. As it is written, if it be judged good, advance; if it be known to be difficult, retreat." And Lord Wen asked and said:--