Pagina 163 van 266

[So called because the soldiers, being near to their homes and

anxious to see their wives and children, are likely to seize the

opportunity afforded by a battle and scatter in every direction.

"In their advance," observes Tu Mu, "they will lack the valor of

desperation, and when they retreat, they will find harbors of

refuge."]

3. When he has penetrated into hostile territory, but to no great

distance, it is facile ground.

[Li Ch'uan and Ho Shih say "because of the facility for

retreating," and the other commentators give similar

explanations. Tu Mu remarks: "When your army has crossed the

border, you should burn your boats and bridges, in order to make

it clear to everybody that you have no hankering after home."]

4. Ground the possession of which imports great advantage to

either side, is contentious ground.