XIII.
THE EMPLOYMENT OF SPIES.
Son the Master said:—
Calling 10,000 men to arms, and transporting them a hundred leagues, is such that in one day 1,000 taels of the citizens’ and state’s money are spent; domestic and foreign complications arise; industrial pursuits are neglected on the line of march of the army; and the occupations of 70,000[1] homes are upset.
Again, for years the armies may face each other ; yet the issue may depend on a single day’s victory.
Wherefore, by grudging slight expense in titles[2] and salaries to spies, to remain in ignorance of the enemy’s circumstances, is the personification of cruelty. Such a person is no general; he is no assistance to his lord; he is no master of victory.
The enlightened ruler and the able general who act, win, and are distinguished beyond the common, are
informed beforehand.
- ↑ The population was divided for military purposes into groups of 8 families, from which, in time of war, one was taken, wherefore if 10,000 men are taken, 70,000 homes are affected. In Japan the unit was five, and a survival of this exists today. When moving into a new house presents of soba are sent to the two adjoining and three opposite houses—"Mukosangen, Ryodonari."
- ↑ This shows the importance and respect which spies were regarded. Spies toiled for years in the enemy’s service waiting their opportunity, and instances are known of their obtaining high rank and office without discovery. A spy was not infrequently a priest.
