Sayfa 216 / 266

[These words of Sun Tzŭ were once quoted by Han Hsin in

explanation of the tactics he employed in one of his most

brilliant battles, already alluded to on p. 28. In 204 B.C., he

was sent against the army of Chao, and halted ten miles from the

mouth of the Ching-hsing pass, where the enemy had mustered in

full force. Here, at midnight, he detached a body of 2000 light

cavalry, every man of which was furnished with a red flag. Their

instructions were to make their way through narrow defiles and

keep a secret watch on the enemy. "When the men of Chao see me in

full flight," Han Hsin said, "they will abandon their

fortifications and give chase.