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[These were tablets of bamboo or wood, one half of which was

issued as a permit or passport by the official in charge of a

gate. Cf. the "border-warden" of Lun Yu III. 24, who may have had

similar duties. When this half was returned to him, within a

fixed period, he was authorized to open the gate and let the

traveler through.]

and stop the passage of all emissaries.

[Either to or from the enemy's country.]

64. Be stern in the council-chamber,

[Show no weakness, and insist on your plans being ratified by the

sovereign.]

so that you may control the situation.

[Mei Yao-ch'en understands the whole sentence to mean: Take the

strictest precautions to ensure secrecy in your deliberations.]

65. If the enemy leaves a door open, you must rush in.

66. Forestall your opponent by seizing what he holds dear,

[Cf. supra, § 18.]

and subtly contrive to time his arrival on the ground.