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[Chang Yu tells us that in ancient times it was customary for a

temple to be set apart for the use of a general who was about to

take the field, in order that he might there elaborate his plan

of campaign.]

The general who loses a battle makes but few calculations

beforehand. Thus do many calculations lead to victory, and few

calculations to defeat: how much more no calculation at all! It

is by attention to this point that I can foresee who is likely to

win or lose.

[1] "Words on Wellington," by Sir. W. Fraser.

Chapter II. WAGING WAR

[Ts'ao Kung has the note: "He who wishes to fight must first

count the cost," which prepares us for the discovery that the

subject of the chapter is not what we might expect from the

title, but is primarily a consideration of ways and means.]

1. Sun Tzŭ said: In the operations of war, where there are in the

field a thousand swift chariots, as many heavy chariots, and a

hundred thousand mail-clad soldiers,