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Do not swallow bait offered by the enemy. Do not interfere with an army that is returning home.

Sun Tzu

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Sun Tzu
Military Personnel
Philosopher
Strategist
Writer
Kingdom of Qi
Sun Wu
Sun Zi
Changqing
Army
Enemy
Home
Bait
Swallow
Returning
Interfere
Offered

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In a position of this sort, even though the enemy should offer us an attractive bait, it will be advisable not to stir forth, but rather to retreat, thus enticing the enemy in his turn then, when part of his army has come out, we may deliver our attack with advantage.
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The King is only fond of words, and cannot translate them into deeds.
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For to win one hundred victories in one hundred battles is not the acme of skill. To subdue the enemy without fighting is the acme of skill.
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One who speaks deferentially but increases his preparations will advance. One who speaks belligerently and advances hastily will retreat.
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Thus those skilled in war subdue the enemy's army without battle .... They conquer by strategy.
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