Hence he does not strive 661 to ally himself with all and sundry, 662 nor does he foster the power of other states. He carries out his own secret designs, 663 keeping his antagonists in awe. 664 Thus he is able to capture their cities and overthrow their kingdoms. 665

Bestow rewards without regard to rule, 666 issue orders 667 without regard to previous arrangements; 668 and you will be able to handle a whole army 669 as though you had to do with but a single man. 670