14
THE COMPLETE WORKS OF SONSHI.
V.
THE SHOCK OF WAR.
Son the Master said:—
The control of large numbers is possible, and like unto that of small numbers, if we subdivide them.
If we use drum, bell, and flag,[1] the direction of large forces is possible, and like unto the direction of small forces.
By the skilful interchange of ordinary and extraordinary manœuvres, is the enemy most certainly defeated.
Like the fall of a jagged rock upon an egg, so should the forces, strong and united, be dashed against the enemy’s empty unpreparedness.
Moreover, the collision with the enemy having occured, victory is obtained with the "strategic"
force.[2]
- ↑ The drum was used to beat the assembly and in the advance, the bell as a signal for ‘‘ cease fire."’ The bell was not used in the wars in Japan, a large conch took its place. Flags were of two kinds, signalling flags and distinguishing banners. The fondness of the Chinese for banners seems to arise, partly from the posteresque quality of the Chinese written character with which the banners are usually adorned, and partly from a feeling of security and liveliness imparted by the many coloured cloth strips waving in the wind.
- ↑ The character (奇), which is here translated "strategic", alludes to that portion of an army which executes a flank attack, creates a diversion, or lies in ambush, while the enemy's attention is occupied by the evident, or detaining force.
