Thus, though we have heard of stupid haste in war, cleverness has never been seen associated with long delays.
The skillful soldier does not raise a second levy, neither are his supply-wagons loaded more than twice. Once war is declared, he will not waste precious time in waiting for reinforcements, nor will he return his army back for fresh supplies, but crosses the enemy’s frontier without delay. This may seem an audacious policy to recommend, but with all great strategists, from Julius Caesar to Napoleon Bonaparte, the value of time — that is, being a little ahead of your opponent — has counted for more than either numerical superiority or the nicest calculations with regard to commissariat.

In war, then, let your great object be victory, not lengthy campaigns.

He will win who knows when to fight and when not to fight.

Fighting with a large army under your command is nowise different from fighting with a small one: it is merely a question of instituting signs and signals.

Energy may be likened to the bending of a crossbow; decision, to the releasing of a trigger.

… take advantage of the enemy’s unreadiness, make your way by unexpected routes, and attack unguarded spots.

Anger may in time change to gladness; vexation may be succeeded by content.