Pagina 147 de 266

6. When the position is such that neither side will gain by

making the first move, it is called temporising ground.

[Tu Mu says: "Each side finds it inconvenient to move, and the

situation remains at a deadlock."]

7. In a position of this sort, even though the enemy should offer

us an attractive bait,

[Tu Yu says, "turning their backs on us and pretending to flee."

But this is only one of the lures which might induce us to quit

our position.]

it will be advisable not to stir forth, but rather to retreat,

thus enticing the enemy in his turn; then, when part of his army

has come out, we may deliver our attack with advantage.

8. With regard to narrow passes, if you can occupy them first,

let them be strongly garrisoned and await the advent of the

enemy.

[Because then, as Tu Yu observes, "the initiative will lie with

us, and by making sudden and unexpected attacks we shall have the

enemy at our mercy."]