Thus the highest form of generalship is to baulk the enemy’s plans; 220 the next best is to prevent the junction of the enemy’s forces; 221 the next in order is to attack the enemy’s army in the field; 222 and the worst policy of all is to besiege walled cities. 223

The rule is, not to besiege walled cities if it can possibly be avoided. 224 The preparation of mantlets, movable shelters, and various implements of war, will take up three whole months; 225 and the piling up of mounds over against the walls will take three months more. 226