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[The commentators strongly understand a certain Chinese word here

differently than anywhere else in this chapter. Thus Tu Mu says:

"seeing that we are favourably circumstanced and yet make no

move, the enemy will believe that we are really afraid."]

masking strength with weakness is to be effected by tactical

dispositions.

[Chang Yu relates the following anecdote of Kao Tsu, the first

Han Emperor: "Wishing to crush the Hsiung-nu, he sent out spies

to report on their condition. But the Hsiung-nu, forewarned,

carefully concealed all their able-bodied men and well-fed

horses, and only allowed infirm soldiers and emaciated cattle to

be seen. The result was that spies one and all recommended the

Emperor to deliver his attack. Lou Ching alone opposed them,

saying: 'When two countries go to war, they are naturally

inclined to make an ostentatious display of their strength. Yet

our spies have seen nothing but old age and infirmity. This is

surely some ruse on the part of the enemy, and it would be unwise

for us to attack.' The Emperor, however, disregarding this

advice, fell into the trap and found himself surrounded at

Po-teng."]