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[Ch'en recalls the line of action adopted in 224 B.C. by the

famous general Wang Chien, whose military genius largely

contributed to the success of the First Emperor. He had invaded

the Ch'u State, where a universal levy was made to oppose him.

But, being doubtful of the temper of his troops, he declined all

invitations to fight and remained strictly on the defensive. In

vain did the Ch'u general try to force a battle: day after day

Wang Chien kept inside his walls and would not come out, but

devoted his whole time and energy to winning the affection and

confidence of his men. He took care that they should be well fed,

sharing his own meals with them, provided facilities for bathing,

and employed every method of judicious indulgence to weld them

into a loyal and homogenous body. After some time had elapsed, he

told off certain persons to find out how the men were amusing

themselves. The answer was, that they were contending with one

another in putting the weight and long-jumping.