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15. Thus it is that in war the victorious strategist only seeks

battle after the victory has been won, whereas he who is destined

to defeat first fights and afterwards looks for victory.

[Ho Shih thus expounds the paradox: "In warfare, first lay plans

which will ensure victory, and then lead your army to battle; if

you will not begin with stratagem but rely on brute strength

alone, victory will no longer be assured."]

16. The consummate leader cultivates the moral law, and strictly

adheres to method and discipline; thus it is in his power to

control success.

17. In respect of military method, we have, firstly, Measurement;

secondly, Estimation of quantity; thirdly, Calculation; fourthly,

Balancing of chances; fifthly, Victory.

18. Measurement owes its existence to Earth; Estimation of

quantity to Measurement; Calculation to Estimation of quantity;

Balancing of chances to Calculation; and Victory to Balancing of

chances.