Too frequent rewards signify that the enemy is at the end of his resources; 499 too many punishments betray a condition of dire distress. 500

To begin by bluster, but afterwards to take fright at the enemy’s numbers, shows a supreme lack of intelligence. 501

When envoys are sent with compliments in their mouths, it is a sign that the enemy wishes for a truce. 502

If the enemy’s troops march up angrily and remain facing ours for a long time without either joining battle or taking themselves off again, the situation is one that demands great vigilance and circumspection. 503