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Li Ching replied: "To the soldier, overwhelming speed is of

paramount importance, and he must never miss opportunities. Now

is the time to strike, before Hsiao Hsien even knows that we have

got an army together. If we seize the present moment when the

river is in flood, we shall appear before his capital with

startling suddenness, like the thunder which is heard before you

have time to stop your ears against it. [See VII. § 19, note.]

This is the great principle in war. Even if he gets to know of

our approach, he will have to levy his soldiers in such a hurry

that they will not be fit to oppose us. Thus the full fruits of

victory will be ours." All came about as he predicted, and Hsiao

Hsien was obliged to surrender, nobly stipulating that his people

should be spared and he alone suffer the penalty of death.]

take advantage of the enemy's unreadiness, make your way by

unexpected routes, and attack unguarded spots.