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19. When a general, unable to estimate the enemy's strength,

allows an inferior force to engage a larger one, or hurls a weak

detachment against a powerful one, and neglects to place picked

soldiers in the front rank, the result must be a rout.

[Chang Yu paraphrases the latter part of the sentence and

continues: "Whenever there is fighting to be done, the keenest

spirits should be appointed to serve in the front ranks, both in

order to strengthen the resolution of our own men and to

demoralize the enemy." Cf. the primi ordines of Caesar ("De Bello

Gallico," V. 28, 44, et al.).]

20. These are six ways of courting defeat, which must be

carefully noted by the general who has attained a responsible

post.

[See supra, § 13.]

21. The natural formation of the country is the soldier's best

ally;

[Ch'en Hao says: "The advantages of weather and season are not

equal to those connected with ground."]