Many calculations lead to victory, and few calculations to defeat: how much more no calculation at all!

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  Do not repeat the tactics which have gained you one victory, but let your methods be regulated by the infinite variety of circumstances.

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  Rely not on the likelihood of the enemy’s not coming, but on your own readiness to receive him.

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  The best thing of all is to take the enemy’s country whole and intact; to shatter and destroy it is not so good.

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  All warfare is based on deception.

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  Advance where no one can stop you; retreat where you cannot be overtaken.

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  Whoever is first in the field and awaits the coming of the enemy will be fresh for the fight; whoever is second in the field and has to hasten to battle will arrive exhausted.

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