Build Your Opponent A Golden Bridge To Retreat

If your opponent is of choleric temper,  seek to irritate him.  Pretend to be weak, that he may grow arrogant.

When you reach the end of your rope, tie a knot and hang on.

If your enemy is secure at all points, be prepared for him. If he is in superior strength, evade him. If your opponent is temperamental, seek to irritate him. Pretend to be weak, that he may grow arrogant. If he is taking his ease, give him no rest. If his forces are united, separate them. If sovereign and subject are in accord, put division between them. Attack him where he is unprepared, appear where you are not expected .

Move swift as the Wind and closely-formed as the Wood. Attack like the Fire and be still as the Mountain.

The wise warrior avoids the battle.

When the enemy is relaxed, make them toil. When full, starve them. When settled, make them move.