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45. When you have the enemy's strongholds on your rear, and

narrow passes in front, it is hemmed-in ground. When there is no

place of refuge at all, it is desperate ground.

46. Therefore, on dispersive ground, I would inspire my men with

unity of purpose.

[This end, according to Tu Mu, is best attained by remaining on

the defensive, and avoiding battle. Cf. supra, § 11.]

On facile ground, I would see that there is close connection

between all parts of my army.

[As Tu Mu says, the object is to guard against two possible

contingencies: "(1) the desertion of our own troops; (2) a sudden

attack on the part of the enemy." Cf. VII. § 17. Mei Yao-ch'en

says: "On the march, the regiments should be in close touch; in

an encampment, there should be continuity between the

fortifications."]

47. On contentious ground, I would hurry up my rear.