X.
TOPOGRAPHY.
Son the Master said:—
With regard to the different natures of ground there are:—
Open ground; enveloped ground; suspended ground; defiles; precipices; far countries.
Open ground is that where either side has liberty of movement : be quick to occupy any high ground in the neighbourhood and consider well the line of supplies.
Hanging ground. Advance is easy, but retreat from it is difficult. Here, if the enemy is not prepared, we may win: but should he be prepared; and defeat us; and retreat be impossible; then there is disaster.
Suspended ground. The side that takes the initiative is under a disadvantage. Here, if the enemy offer some allurement, we should not advance: but rather, by feigning retreat wait until he has put forth half his force. Then we may attack him with advantage.
Defiles, make haste to occupy; garrison strongly and await the enemy.
Should the enemy be before you, and in strength, do not engage him: but if he has not prepared the position attack him.
In precipitous ground quickly occupy a position on
