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17. When the higher officers are angry and insubordinate, and on

meeting the enemy give battle on their own account from a feeling

of resentment, before the commander-in-chief can tell whether or

no he is in a position to fight, the result is ruin.

[Wang Hsi's note is: "This means, the general is angry without

cause, and at the same time does not appreciate the ability of

his subordinate officers; thus he arouses fierce resentment and

brings an avalanche of ruin upon his head."]

18. When the general is weak and without authority; when his

orders are not clear and distinct;