Seite 104 von 266

positions which must not be contested, commands of the sovereign

which must not be obeyed.

[This is a hard saying for the Chinese, with their reverence for

authority, and Wei Liao Tzŭ (quoted by Tu Mu) is moved to

exclaim: "Weapons are baleful instruments, strife is antagonistic

to virtue, a military commander is the negation of civil order!"

The unpalatable fact remains, however, that even Imperial wishes

must be subordinated to military necessity.]

4. The general who thoroughly understands the advantages that

accompany variation of tactics knows how to handle his troops.

5. The general who does not understand these, may be well

acquainted with the configuration of the country, yet he will not

be able to turn his knowledge to practical account.