The Five Developments of Fire

In attacking with fire, one should be prepared to meet five possible developments. If there is an outbreak of sire but the enemy's soldiers remain quiet, bide your time and do not attack. A wind that rises in the daytime lasts long but a night breeze soon falls. Move not unless you see an advantage. Use not your troops unless there is something to be gained. No ruler should put troops into the field merely to gratify his own spleen. Unhappy is the fate of one who tries to win his battles without cultivating the spirit of enterprise.