The Importance of Iron Discipline

The sight of men whispering together in small knots or speaking in subdued tones points to disaffection amongst the rank and file. Too many punishments betray a condition of dire distress. When envoys are sent with compliments in their mouths, it is a sign that the enemy wishes for a truce. He who exercises no forethought but makes light of his opponents is sure to be captured by them. If soldiers are punished before they have grown attached to you, they will not prove submissives. And unless submissive, they will be practically useless. This is a certain road to victory. Sun Tzu said, we may distinguish six kinds of terrain. To wit, one, accessible ground, two