QUALITIES OF THE GENERAL
101
IV
qualities of the general
Wu the Master said:—
“The leader of the army is one who is master of both arms and letters. He who is both brave and tender can be entrusted with troops.
“In the popular estimation of generals, courage alone is regarded; nevertheless, courage is but one of the qualifications of the leader. Courage is heedless in encounter; and rash encounter, which is ignorant of the consequences, cannot be called good.
“There are five matters which leaders must carefully consider.
“First, reason; second, preparation; third, determination; fourth, vigilance; fifth, simplicity.
“With reason, a multitude can be controlled like a small number.
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