 
Poker According to Sun Tzu

Mike Evan

Smashwords Edition

Copyright 2012 Mike Evan

Smashwords Edition, License Notes

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# Poker According to Sun Tzu

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Mastering the Art of the Game

# Table of Contents

**1. Laying Plans**

**2. Playing the Game**

**3. Attack by Stratagem**

**4. Tactical Dispositions**

**5. Energy**

**6. Weak Points & Strong**

**7. Maneuvering**

**8. Variation in Tactics**

**9. Players on the Move**

**10. Engagements**

**11. The Nine Situations**

**12. Attack**

**13. The User of Information**

# PREFACE

This work is an adaptation of the great classic, "The Art of War," written in the 6th century B.C. by Sun Wu, better known as Sun Tzu. It is the earliest known treatise on war, and studied by some of the most influential military figures through the centuries, including Napoleon Bonaparte, George S. Patton, and Douglas MacArthur, as well as Joseph Stalin, Mao Zedong, and Ho Chi Min.

Rather than being an exhaustive manual of military science, "The Art of War" is more a guide to aid the military leader in attaining the correct mindset. Organized into thirteen chapters, lessons come in the form of Eastern proverbs and aphorisms. Many of the teachings appear to contradict one another if taken individually, but within the overall context of the work, and in the fashion of Eastern literature, these seek to guide one toward what one might call their "center." Hence, the prudent general is both aggressive and defensive; quick to take advantage of the weakness of the enemy, while being wary of a trap; brutal, yet seeking to avoid conflict.

The classic work has been adapted over the years to fields outside of military studies, most notably in the areas of business, management, and advertising. It has been essential reading for many athletes, and indeed, it is easy to see valuable lessons for competitors of all types. Hence, one may find instruction for contests that carry far less significant consequences than the destruction of armies or the conquest of empires. It is in this spirit the current book was written.

"Poker According to Sun Tzu" takes a slightly different approach than earlier adaptations. Rather than presenting commentary on the ancient work and then applying it to the game of poker, we have modified the text to fit the purpose, while remaining near to the original in terms of style. There is exactly the same number of proverbial lessons, organized within thirteen chapters. Where appropriate and acceptable, the text remains as originally translated, presenting truths that, although somewhat esoteric in nature, offer value to the one seeking mastery of the game. Some statements need slight modification to direct them to the present subject, such as changing the term "enemy" to "opponent," or changing "war" to "the game." Others are directly inapplicable to a contest such as poker: attacking with fire; employment of spies; execution of soldiers. From lessons such as these, the objective has been to take the underlying truth and restate it within the context of poker.

We have made every attempt to keep the book and its teachings general with respect to poker, in all its various forms. However, some lessons do refer to tournament play, and some carry an emphasis on Texas Holdem. These occurrences are relatively rare and insignificant to the work as a whole. The cash game player and the Omaha or Stud player should find the same wealth of knowledge as the tournament Texas Holdem player.

Finally, the text of "The Art of War," as translated by Lionel Giles in 1910 is included as a footnote to each chapter. This, hopefully, will offer a more complete experience, and provide added insight for those comparing the text provided in this book to the original translated work.

# INTRODUCTION

A famous legend surrounds the history of the man known as Sun Tzu. In the early 6th century B.C., after reading his thirteen chapters, Ho Lu, the king of Wu, summoned Master Sun and pressed him to prove his military prowess. In response, Sun Tzu requested, and received, permission to assemble 180 of the young ladies of the palace.

Sun Tzu divided the women into two companies and placed one of the king's favorite concubines at the head of each group. Then, ordering them all to take hold of spears, he asked, "Do you know the difference between forward and back, right and left?"

The women replied" "Yes.

"When I say, 'Eyes forward,' you are to look straight ahead. When I say, 'Left face,'" continued Sun Tzu, "you are to face towards your left hand. When I say, 'Right face,' you are to face towards your right hand. When I say, 'About face,' you are to turn and face towards your back."

After explaining the commands, the drums sounded and Sun Tzu gave the order, "Right face." The girls did not move, but burst out in laughter.

Sun Tzu said, "If orders are unclear, if the words of command are not fully understood, then the commander is to blame."

Once again, he started the drill. This time he sounded the command, "Left face." Again, there came a burst of laughter. Again, Sun Tzu said, "If orders are unclear, if the words of command are not fully understood, then the commander is to blame. But if his orders are clear, and the soldiers fail to obey, then the fault lies with their officers."

So Sun Tzu ordered the two concubines beheaded and installed another pair as leaders in their place. Then the drum sounded again, but this time the girls turned left, right, and to the rear. They marched ahead as ordered with great precision and without uttering a sound.

Then Sun Tzu sent a message to the king: "Your warriors are now properly drilled and disciplined, ready to be inspected by Your Majesty. They will serve as you command. Order them through fire and to the ends of the world, and they will not disobey."

The thirteen chapters of "The Art of War," studied for over 2500 years, presents lessons in harsh discipline, required in a time when the cost of insubordination might mean the loss of a kingdom. Yet, it also directs criticism toward the commander who does not care for the needs of his army. On the one hand, "Throw your soldiers into positions whence there is no escape, and they will prefer death to flight...;" on the other hand, "Carefully study the well-being of your men, and do not overtax them..."

The 385 proverbs which make up the work form a treatise on the human condition, and the contrasts one finds to perhaps no greater degree than in warfare. Sun Tzu speaks of the virtues of being aggressive, along with the wisdom of being defensive. He urges one to move quickly at the critical moment, and warns of the danger of rash actions. He teaches of the essential nature of gaining information, yet states, "All warfare is based on deception." He provides a study in different terrains, varying conditions, dangers to avoid, and weaknesses to exploit.

Taken as a whole, Sun Tzu presents a picture of the perfect commander, one who has found the "center," or the perfect balance. It is this balance, this ability to handle the multitude of forces with skill and courage, which makes the skillful commander. By correctly anticipating and facing the challenges and contradictions of war, the commander may reasonably expect to arise victorious.

Many of these same challenges and contradictions are found in various other types of competition...yes, including the game of poker. There is the conflict between adversaries. There are conditions that change constantly. There is certainly the unexpected. And while there is no interaction between a general and his army, there is instead the very real internal relationship between the mind and the heart (or the will, if you prefer). This internal conflict can be a deciding factor of competition: one often knows the smart play, but impulsively goes the other way.

The "Art of War" has offered great insight to many readers over the centuries. When applied particularly to competitive poker, this work promises a multitude of lessons to help the player be disciplined, find his "center," and raise his play to the level of a master.

# 1. Laying Plans

**According to the principles of Sun Tzu: For those who choose to play poker, the "art of the game" is an important concept.**

**For the serious player, it is a matter of success or disaster; for the casual player, enjoyment or exasperation. Hence, for players of all levels, the art of the game is important to master.**

**The art of the game, then, is governed by five consistent factors to be considered when determining one's situation at any particular stage of play.**

**These are:**

**The Game;**

**The Progression;**

**The Conditions;**

**The Player;**

**The Play.**

**The Game has certain characteristics which enable its mastery...**

**...** **so that one can play with a level of confidence that supersedes aspects of pure luck. The game has certain fixed rules that provide consistency, yet each game possesses a nature of its own through a virtually infinite number of combinations of various attributes within the other four factors.**

**The Progression of cards within the Game...what some call chance; others divine Providence... is, in fact, guided by laws of probability, with deviations from them in any particular hand. It is, in fact, these deviations from mathematical odds, and how one responds to them that offer opportunities for victory or ruin.**

**The Conditions are determined by the known cards, the number of players, the pace of play, the size of blinds and antes, the relative position of the players, and chip counts relative to other players.**

**The Player (the Self) is the one who acts within the Game, and requires such attributes as knowledge, deliberation, cunning, determination, and rigor. The player must use his mind to recall lessons of the past and deliberate proper action. He must use his heart, or intuition, to process the commands of the mind and put them into action.**

**The Play of the game, performed masterfully, must be with method and discipline, understood as the marshaling of all knowledge and experience, combined with the analysis of other players' behavior and patterns, the proper management of resources, and controlled communication of information to other players.**

**These five factors should be familiar to the master player: one who knows them will, over time, be victorious; one who masters them will not fail.**

**Therefore, in your deliberations, when seeking to determine the game conditions, let them be made the basis of a comparison, like such:**

**Who appears to have great mastery of the game?**

**Who has the greater self-control?**

**Who has the advantage of resources?**

**Who is the more disciplined player?**

**Who is in a dominant position?**

**Who is the more cunning player?**

**Who displays greater variability of pattern?**

**By means of these seven considerations, one can forecast likely success, or difficulty, at any particular point in a game; perhaps for the entire game.**

**One who hearkens to this counsel and acts upon it will be successful over time. One who does not act upon this advice will likely see defeat more often than success - let such a one play Parcheesi!**

**These principles should never overrule what is plainly clear from the circumstances of the game, the behavior of other players, or the intuition of the experienced player.**

**Change plans and stratagem as changing conditions would dictate.**

**The well-played game is based on deception, or the appearance of deception.**

**Hence, when able to go on the offensive, one must seem unable; when strong, one must appear weak; when at a disadvantage, one must make the opponents believe it is they who lack advantage.**

**Bait the adversary. Feign weakness, and crush him.**

**If he is a masterful adversary, be prepared for him. If he is in a position of superior strength, evade him, allowing others to do battle.**

**If the adversary is of a domineering temperament, seek to irritate him. Pretend to be weak, that he may grow arrogant.**

**If he is not eager for conversation, give him no rest. If he settles into a regular pattern, disrupt it.**

**Attack him in ways unpredictable, appear where you are not expected, and change tactics when not anticipated.**

**These tactical devices, leading to victory, must neither be divulged by mannerism, nor constrain one to predictable patterns.**

**Now the player who wins much makes many calculations prior to playing the game. The one who loses often makes but few calculations beforehand. Thus does much preparation lead to victory, as does little preparation to defeat: how much more no preparation at all! It is by attention to this point that one can foresee who is likely to win or lose.**

## _Laying Plans_

_Sun Tzu said: The art of war is of vital importance to the State._

_It is a matter of life and death, a road either to safety or to ruin. Hence it is a subject of inquiry which can on no account be neglected._

_The art of war, then, is governed by five constant factors, to be taken into account in one's deliberations, when seeking to determine the conditions obtaining in the field._

_These are:_

_The Moral Law;_

_Heaven;_

_Earth;_

_The Commander;_

_Method and discipline._

_The Moral Law causes the people to be in complete accord with their ruler..._

_..._ _so that they will follow him regardless of their lives, undismayed by any danger._

_Heaven signifies night and day, cold and heat, times and seasons._

_Earth comprises distances, great and small; danger and security; open ground and narrow passes; the chances of life and death._

_The Commander stands for the virtues of wisdom, sincerely, benevolence, courage and strictness._

_By method and discipline are to be understood the marshaling of the army in its proper subdivisions, the graduations of rank among the officers, the maintenance of roads by which supplies may reach the army, and the control of military expenditure._

_These five heads should be familiar to every general: he who knows them will be victorious; he who knows them not will fail._

_Therefore, in your deliberations, when seeking to determine the military conditions, let them be made the basis of a comparison, in this wise:_

_Which of the two sovereigns is imbued with the Moral law?_

_Which of the two generals has most ability?_

_With whom lie the advantages derived from Heaven and Earth?_

_On which side is discipline most rigorously enforced?_

_Which army is stronger?_

_On which side are officers and men more highly trained?_

_In which army is there the greater constancy both in reward and punishment?_

_By means of these seven considerations I can forecast victory or defeat._

_The general that hearkens to my counsel and acts upon it will conquer: let such a one be retained in command! The general that hearkens not to my counsel nor acts upon it will suffer defeat:--let such a one be dismissed!_

_While heeding the profit of my counsel, avail yourself also of any helpful circumstances over and beyond the ordinary rules._

_According as circumstances are favorable, one should modify one's plans._

_All warfare is based on deception._

_Hence, when able to attack, we must seem unable; when using our forces, we must seem inactive; when we are near, we must make the enemy believe we are far away; when far away, we must make him believe we are near._

_Hold out baits to entice the enemy. Feign disorder, and crush him._

_If he is secure at all points, be prepared for him. If he is in superior strength, evade him._

_If your adversary is of choleric temper, seek to irritate him. Pretend to be weak, that he may grow arrogant._

_If he is taking his ease, give him no rest. If his forces are united, separate them._

_Attack him where he is unprepared, appear where you are not expected._

_These military devices, leading to victory, must not be divulged beforehand._

_Now the general who wins a battle makes many calculations in his temple ere the battle is fought. The general who loses a battle makes but few calculations beforehand. Thus do many calculations lead to victory, and few calculations to defeat: how much more no calculation at all! It is by attention to this point that I can foresee who is likely to win or lose._

# 2. Playing the Game

According to the principles of Sun Tzu: To enable the application of all appropriate principles, it is desirable to maintain sufficient resources relative to other players. As their resources grow, so must yours, or your options will become quite limited and increasingly dependent upon external conditions.

By delaying engagement, while others who remain accumulate greater resources, you will eventually exhaust your options.

Again, if you wait a protracted period of time, while simply allowing others to engage in every battle, your resources, or wealth, will eventually fall short.

Now, when you have but little wealth, other players will spring up to take advantage of your extremity. Then no player, however skilled, will likely avert the consequences that must ensue.

Thus, though we have heard of stupid haste in the course of play, cleverness has never been seen associated with excessively long delays.

There is no instance of a player having benefited by never entering the fray of battle.

It is only one who is thoroughly acquainted with all dangers and pitfalls within the game, who can thoroughly understand the profitable way of playing it.

The skillful player does not await a second opportunity; neither does one continuously exhaust one's wealth.

Begin with adequate resources, but obtain more from your adversary as required to ensure resources are adequate at every stage of the game.

A short stack causes one to act deliberately and with great care. Wisdom is magnified, yet options are few.

On the other hand, a large stack leads one to act with greater risk; and excessive risk may cause the substance to be drained away.

When one's great substance is drained away, one will take greater risks still.

With this loss of substance and exhaustion of discipline, one's stack will be stripped bare, and resources will be dissipated...

... while options for renewal rapidly disappear.

Hence a wise player makes a point of maintaining even disposition. One portion sacrificed through rash play is equivalent to twenty gained through skillful play.

Now in order to vanquish the foe, one must be single-minded toward victory; that there may be advantage defeating the adversary, there must be an adequate reward.

Therefore in competition, take plunder from the adversary and, combined with your own wealth, use it against them for greater effect.

This is called, using the conquered foe to augment one's own strength.

In the game, then, let your great object be victory, not lengthy competitions.

Thus it may be known that the mind is the arbiter of the player's fate, the steady source on which one depends, whether at an advantage or in great peril.

## Waging War

_Sun Tzu said: In the operations of war, where there are in the field a thousand swift chariots, as many heavy chariots, and a hundred thousand mail-clad soldiers, with provisions enough to carry them a thousand li, the expenditure at home and at the front, including entertainment of guests, small items such as glue and paint, and sums spent on chariots and armor, will reach the total of a thousand ounces of silver per day. Such is the cost of raising an army of 100,000 men._

_When you engage in actual fighting, if victory is long in coming, then men's weapons will grow dull and their ardor will be damped. If you lay siege to a town, you will exhaust your strength._

_Again, if the campaign is protracted, the resources of the State will not be equal to the strain._

_Now, when your weapons are dulled, your ardor damped, your strength exhausted and your treasure spent, other chieftains will spring up to take advantage of your extremity. Then no man, however wise, will be able to avert the consequences that must ensue._

_Thus, though we have heard of stupid haste in war, cleverness has never been seen associated with long delays._

_There is no instance of a country having benefited from prolonged warfare._

_It is only one who is thoroughly acquainted with the evils of war that can thoroughly understand the profitable way of carrying it on._

_The skillful soldier does not raise a second levy, neither are his supply-wagons loaded more than twice._

_Bring war material with you from home, but forage on the enemy. Thus the army will have food enough for its needs._

_Poverty of the State exchequer causes an army to be maintained by contributions from a distance. Contributing to maintain an army at a distance causes the people to be impoverished._

_On the other hand, the proximity of an army causes prices to go up; and high prices cause the people's substance to be drained away._

_When their substance is drained away, the peasantry will be afflicted by heavy exactions._

_With this loss of substance and exhaustion of strength, the homes of the people will be stripped bare, and three-tenths of their income will be dissipated..._

_..._ _while government expenses for broken chariots, worn-out horses, breast-plates and helmets, bows and arrows, spears and shields, protective mantles, draught-oxen and heavy wagons, will amount to four-tenths of its total revenue._

_Hence a wise general makes a point of foraging on the enemy. One cartload of the enemy's provisions is equivalent to twenty of one's own, and likewise a single picul of his provender is equivalent to twenty from one's own store._

_Now in order to kill the enemy, our men must be roused to anger; that there may be advantage from defeating the enemy, they must have their rewards._

_Therefore in chariot fighting, when ten or more chariots have been taken, those should be rewarded who took the first. Our own flags should be substituted for those of the enemy, and the chariots mingled and used in conjunction with ours. The captured soldiers should be kindly treated and kept._

_This is called, using the conquered foe to augment one's own strength._

_In war, then, let your great object be victory, not lengthy campaigns._

_Thus it may be known that the leader of armies is the arbiter of the people's fate, the man on whom it depends whether the nation shall be in peace or in peril._

# 3. Attack by Stratagem

According to the principles of Sun Tzu: In the practical art of the game, the best thing of all is to take an adversary's wealth with an unbeatable hand.

Winning every hand straight-up is not supreme excellence; supreme excellence consists in making the adversary fold without you showing your hand.

The highest form of play is to never reveal a discernible pattern; the next best is to make the adversary fold a better hand; the next in order is to skillfully obtain maximum resources with a winning hand; and the worst policy of all is to repeatedly risk large amounts.

The rule is, not to risk all unless that is the aim; make the other believe it is his plan. Playing by repeatedly responding to opponents' actions and schemes will often be unsuccessful.

The player, unable to control his irritation, will launch assaults with little deliberation, with the result that one's wealth will be taken by the adversary. Such are the disastrous effects of playing with anger.

Therefore the skillful player subdues the adversary before the last card is displayed; one overcomes without repeated battles putting excessive resources at risk of loss.

With wealth intact, one will dispute the mastery of the game, and thus, without showing his hand, his triumph will be complete. This is the method of attacking by stratagem.

It is the rule of masterful play, if one's resources are ten to the adversary's one, dominate him relentlessly; if five to one, press him cautiously; if twice as numerous, treat him as an equal.

If equally matched, one can play aggressively; if slightly inferior as to wealth, one can avoid the adversary until conditions are favorable; if quite unequal in every way, one can flee, until forced into battle.

Hence, though an obstinate fight may be made with little resources, in the end one must gain, or be defeated by the greater.

Now the mind is the bulwark of the player; if the bulwark is complete at all points, the player will be strong; if the bulwark is defective, the player will be weak.

There are three ways in which a player can bring misfortune upon oneself:

(1) By acting or retreating without thought, being ignorant of how conditions dictate a preferred course of action. This is called hobbling the hand.

(2) By employing an unchanging pattern of play, being ignorant of how conditions require variation from this pattern. This is a misapplication of discipline.

(3) By focusing on an objective with unyielding tenacity, being ignorant of how changing conditions reveal new hazards. This is called tunnel vision.

But when the player is distrustful of these principles, trouble is sure to come from one's opponents. This is simply bringing doubt to the player's mind, and flinging victory away.

Thus we may know that there are five essentials for victory: (1) one will win who knows when to fight and when not to fight; (2) one will win who knows how to handle both superior and inferior forces; (3) one will win who consistently balances all the aspects of masterful play; (4) one will win who, having prepared oneself, waits to take the adversary unprepared; (5) one will win whose mind is not clouded with doubt.

Hence the saying: If you know the enemy and know yourself, you need not fear the result of a hundred battles. If you know yourself but not the enemy, for every victory gained you will also suffer a defeat. If you know neither the enemy nor yourself, you will succumb in every battle.

## Attack by Stratagem

_Sun Tzu said: In the practical art of war, the best thing of all is to take the enemy's country whole and intact; to shatter and destroy it is not so good. So, too, it is better to recapture an army entire than to destroy it, to capture a regiment, a detachment or a company entire than to destroy them._

_Hence to fight and conquer in all your battles is not supreme excellence; supreme excellence consists in breaking the enemy's resistance without fighting._

_Thus the highest form of generalship is to balk the enemy's plans; the next best is to prevent the junction of the enemy's forces; the next in order is to attack the enemy's army in the field; and the worst policy of all is to besiege walled cities._

_The rule is, not to besiege walled cities if it can possibly be avoided. The preparation of mantlets, movable shelters, and various implements of war, will take up three whole months; and the piling up of mounds over against the walls will take three months more._

_The general, unable to control his irritation, will launch his men to the assault like swarming ants, with the result that one-third of his men are slain, while the town still remains untaken. Such are the disastrous effects of a siege._

_Therefore the skillful leader subdues the enemy's troops without any fighting; he captures their cities without laying siege to them; he overthrows their kingdom without lengthy operations in the field._

_With his forces intact he will dispute the mastery of the Empire, and thus, without losing a man, his triumph will be complete. This is the method of attacking by stratagem._

_It is the rule in war, if our forces are ten to the enemy's one, to surround him; if five to one, to attack him; if twice as numerous, to divide our army into two._

_If equally matched, we can offer battle; if slightly inferior in numbers, we can avoid the enemy; if quite unequal in every way, we can flee from him._

_Hence, though an obstinate fight may be made by a small force, in the end it must be captured by the larger force._

_Now the general is the bulwark of the State; if the bulwark is complete at all points; the State will be strong; if the bulwark is defective, the State will be weak._

_There are three ways in which a ruler can bring misfortune upon his army:_

_(1) By commanding the army to advance or to retreat, being ignorant of the fact that it cannot obey. This is called hobbling the army._

_(2) By attempting to govern an army in the same way as he administers a kingdom, being ignorant of the conditions which obtain in an army. This causes restlessness in the soldier's minds._

_(3) By employing the officers of his army without discrimination, through ignorance of the military principle of adaptation to circumstances. This shakes the confidence of the soldiers._

_But when the army is restless and distrustful, trouble is sure to come from the other feudal princes. This is simply bringing anarchy into the army, and flinging victory away._

_Thus we may know that there are five essentials for victory: (1) He will win who knows when to fight and when not to fight. (2) He will win who knows how to handle both superior and inferior forces. (3) He will win whose army is animated by the same spirit throughout all its ranks. (4) He will win who, prepared himself, waits to take the enemy unprepared. (5) He will win who has military capacity and is not interfered with by the sovereign._

_Hence the saying: If you know the enemy and know yourself, you need not fear the result of a hundred battles. If you know yourself but not the enemy, for every victory gained you will also suffer a defeat. If you know neither the enemy nor yourself, you will succumb in every battle._

# 4. Tactical Dispositions

According to the principles of Sun Tzu: The good players of old first put themselves beyond the probability of defeat, and then waited for an opportunity of defeating the adversary.

To secure oneself against defeat often lies in one's own hands, but the opportunity of defeating the enemy is often provided by the adversary himself.

Thus the good player is able to protect oneself against defeat, but cannot make certain of defeating the adversary.

Hence the saying: One may know how to conquer without being able to do it.

Security against defeat implies defensive tactics; ability to defeat the adversary means taking the offensive at the appropriate time.

Standing on the defensive indicates insufficient strength; attacking, a superabundance of strength.

The player who is skilled in defense bides his time well; he who is skilled in attack flashes forth at the opportune time. Thus on the one hand we have ability to protect ourselves; on the other, a victory that is complete.

To see victory only when it is within the ken of the common herd is not the acme of excellence.

Neither is it the acme of excellence if you fight and conquer and the whole poker world says, "Well done!"

To lift an autumn hair is no sign of great strength; to see the sun and moon is no sign of sharp sight; to hear the noise of thunder is no sign of a quick ear.

What the old-timers called a clever fighter is one who not only wins, but excels in winning with ease.

Hence his victories will neither bring him reputation for wisdom nor credit for gamesmanship.

One wins the game by making no mistakes. Playing without error is what establishes the likelihood of victory, for it means defeating a foe that is already defeated.

Hence the skillful player puts oneself into a position which makes defeat impossible, and does not miss the moment for defeating the adversary.

Thus it is that, in the game, the victorious strategist only seeks confrontation after the victory has been won, whereas one who is destined to defeat first fights and afterwards looks for victory.

The consummate tactician cultivates one's understanding of the game, and strictly adheres to method and discipline; thus it is in one's power to control success.

In respect of method of play, we have, firstly, Probability; secondly, Estimation of odds; thirdly, Calculation; fourthly, Balancing of chances; fifthly, Victory.

Probability owes its existence to the Conditions; Estimation of odds to Probability; Calculation to Estimation of odds; Balancing of chances to Calculation; and Victory to Balancing of chances.

A victorious player opposed to a routed one, is as a pound's weight placed in the scale against a single grain.

The onrush of overpowering dominance is like the bursting of pent-up waters into a chasm a thousand fathoms deep.

## Tactical Dispositions

_Sun Tzu said: The good fighters of old first put themselves beyond the possibility of defeat, and then waited for an opportunity of defeating the enemy._

_To secure ourselves against defeat lies in our own hands, but the opportunity of defeating the enemy is provided by the enemy himself._

_Thus the good fighter is able to secure himself against defeat, but cannot make certain of defeating the enemy._

_Hence the saying: One may know how to conquer without being able to do it._

_Security against defeat implies defensive tactics; ability to defeat the enemy means taking the offensive._

_Standing on the defensive indicates insufficient strength; attacking, a superabundance of strength._

_The general who is skilled in defense hides in the most secret recesses of the earth; he who is skilled in attack flashes forth from the topmost heights of heaven. Thus on the one hand we have ability to protect ourselves; on the other, a victory that is complete._

_To see victory only when it is within the ken of the common herd is not the acme of excellence._

_Neither is it the acme of excellence if you fight and conquer and the whole Empire says, "Well done!"_

_To lift an autumn hair is no sign of great strength; to see the sun and moon is no sign of sharp sight; to hear the noise of thunder is no sign of a quick ear._

_What the ancients called a clever fighter is one who not only wins, but excels in winning with ease._

_Hence his victories bring him neither reputation for wisdom nor credit for courage._

_He wins his battles by making no mistakes. Making no mistakes is what establishes the certainty of victory, for it means conquering an enemy that is already defeated._

_Hence the skillful fighter puts himself into a position which makes defeat impossible, and does not miss the moment for defeating the enemy._

_Thus it is that in war the victorious strategist only seeks battle after the victory has been won, whereas he who is destined to defeat first fights and afterwards looks for victory._

_The consummate leader cultivates the moral law, and strictly adheres to method and discipline; thus it is in his power to control success._

_In respect of military method, we have, firstly, Measurement; secondly, Estimation of quantity; thirdly, Calculation; fourthly, Balancing of chances; fifthly, Victory._

_Measurement owes its existence to Earth; Estimation of quantity to Measurement; Calculation to Estimation of quantity; Balancing of chances to Calculation; and Victory to Balancing of chances._

_A victorious army opposed to a routed one, is as a pound's weight placed in the scale against a single grain._

_The onrush of a conquering force is like the bursting of pent-up waters into a chasm a thousand fathoms deep._

# 5. Energy

According to the principles of Sun Tzu: The control of a long contest is the same principle as the control of a short one: it is merely a question of dividing up their stages.

Playing a large tournament is nowise different from playing a single game: it is merely a question of instituting transitions and understanding the stages.

To ensure that the wise player may withstand the brunt of the adversary's attack and remain unshaken - this is affected by maneuvers direct and indirect.

That the impact of your play may be like a grindstone dashed against an egg - this is effected by the science of weak points and strong.

In all contests, the direct method may be used for joining the fray, but indirect methods will be needed in order to secure victory.

Indirect tactics, efficiently applied, are inexhaustible as the possible courses of the game, unending as the flow of rivers and streams; like the sun and moon, they end but to begin anew; like the four seasons, they pass away to return once more.

There are not more than five musical notes (in ancient Eastern music), yet the combinations of these five give rise to more melodies than can ever be heard.

There are not more than five primary colors (blue, yellow, red, white, and black), yet in combination they produce more hues than can ever been seen.

There are not more than five cardinal tastes (sour, acrid, salt, sweet, bitter), yet combinations of them yield more flavors than can ever be tasted.

In contests, there are not more than two methods of attack - the direct and the indirect; yet these two in combination give rise to an endless series of maneuvers.

The direct and the indirect lead on to each other in turn. It is like moving in a circle - one never comes to an end. Who can exhaust the possibilities of their combination?

Suddenly aggressive play is like the rush of a torrent which will even roll stones along in its course.

The quality of one's decision is like the well-timed swoop of a falcon which enables it to strike and destroy its victim.

Therefore the good player will be bold in his onset, and prompt in his decision.

Energy may be likened to the bending of a crossbow; decision, to the releasing of a trigger.

Amid the turmoil and tumult of the game, there may be seeming disorder and yet no real disorder at all; amid confusion and chaos, your style may be without head or tail, yet it will be proof against defeat.

Simulated disorder postulates perfect discipline, simulated fear postulates courage; simulated weakness postulates strength.

Hiding order beneath the cloak of disorder is simply a question of subterfuge; concealing courage under a show of timidity presupposes a fund of latent energy; masking strength with weakness is to be effected by tactical dispositions.

Thus one who is skillful at keeping the adversary guessing maintains deceitful appearances, according to which the adversary will act. He sacrifices something, so that the foe may snatch at it.

By holding out baits, one keeps him on the move; then with a quiver full of designs, the archer lies in wait for him.

The clever player looks to the effect of combined energy, and does not require too much from a single moment. Hence his ability to pick out the right times and utilize combined energy.

When he utilizes combined energy, his play becomes as it were like unto rolling logs or stones. For it is the nature of a log or stone to remain motionless on level ground, and to move when on a slope; if four-cornered, to come to a standstill, but if round-shaped, to go rolling down.

Thus the energy developed by good play is as the momentum of a round stone rolled down a mountain thousands of feet in height. So much on the subject of energy.

## Energy

_Sun Tzu said: The control of a large force is the same principle as the control of a few men: it is merely a question of dividing up their numbers._

_Fighting with a large army under your command is nowise different from fighting with a small one: it is merely a question of instituting signs and signals._

_To ensure that your whole host may withstand the brunt of the enemy's attack and remain unshaken-- this is affected by maneuvers direct and indirect._

_That the impact of your army may be like a grindstone dashed against an egg--this is effected by the science of weak points and strong._

_In all fighting, the direct method may be used for joining battle, but indirect methods will be needed in order to secure victory._

_Indirect tactics, efficiently applied, are inexhaustible as Heaven and Earth, unending as the flow of rivers and streams; like the sun and moon, they end but to begin anew; like the four seasons, they pass away to return once more._

_There are not more than five musical notes, yet the combinations of these five give rise to more melodies than can ever be heard._

_There are not more than five primary colors (blue, yellow, red, white, and black), yet in combination they produce more hues than can ever been seen._

_There are not more than five cardinal tastes (sour, acrid, salt, sweet, bitter), yet combinations of them yield more flavors than can ever be tasted._

_In battle, there are not more than two methods of attack--the direct and the indirect; yet these two in combination give rise to an endless series of maneuvers._

_The direct and the indirect lead on to each other in turn. It is like moving in a circle--you never come to an end. Who can exhaust the possibilities of their combination?_

_The onset of troops is like the rush of a torrent which will even roll stones along in its course._

_The quality of decision is like the well-timed swoop of a falcon which enables it to strike and destroy its victim._

_Therefore the good fighter will be terrible in his onset, and prompt in his decision._

_Energy may be likened to the bending of a crossbow; decision, to the releasing of a trigger._

_Amid the turmoil and tumult of battle, there may be seeming disorder and yet no real disorder at all; amid confusion and chaos, your array may be without head or tail, yet it will be proof against defeat._

_Simulated disorder postulates perfect discipline, simulated fear postulates courage; simulated weakness postulates strength._

_Hiding order beneath the cloak of disorder is simply a question of subdivision; concealing courage under a show of timidity presupposes a fund of latent energy; masking strength with weakness is to be effected by tactical dispositions._

_Thus one who is skillful at keeping the enemy on the move maintains deceitful appearances, according to which the enemy will act. He sacrifices something, that the enemy may snatch at it._

_By holding out baits, he keeps him on the march; then with a body of picked men he lies in wait for him._

_The clever combatant looks to the effect of combined energy, and does not require too much from individuals. Hence his ability to pick out the right men and utilize combined energy._

_When he utilizes combined energy, his fighting men become as it were like unto rolling logs or stones. For it is the nature of a log or stone to remain motionless on level ground, and to move when on a slope; if four-cornered, to come to a standstill, but if round-shaped, to go rolling down._

_Thus the energy developed by good fighting men is as the momentum of a round stone rolled down a mountain thousands of feet in height. So much on the subject of energy._

# 6. Weak Points & Strong

According to the principles of Sun Tzu: Whoever is first to act and waits for the response of the adversary will set the terms of the play; whoever is second to act is put on the defensive.

Therefore the clever player imposes his will on the adversary, but does not allow the adversary's will to be imposed on him.

By holding out advantages to him, he can cause the adversary to act of his own accord; or, by inflicting damage, he can make it difficult for the adversary to act.

If the adversary is taking his ease, one can harass him; if risk averse, one can drain his resources; if awaiting opportunity, he can force him to move.

Act at times in which the adversary must be defensive; change your patterns and act unexpectedly.

A player may persist a long time without distress, if he patiently waits while others do battle.

You can be sure of succeeding in your actions if you only act with unbeatable hands. You can ensure the safety of your defense if you only respond when in superior conditions.

Hence that player is skillful in attack whose adversary does not know when to respond; and he is skillful in defense whose adversary does not know when to attack.

O divine art of subtlety and secrecy! Through you we learn to be inscrutable, through you inaudible; and hence we can hold the adversary's fate in our hands.

You may pounce and be absolutely irresistible, if you act with strength upon the adversary's weakness; you may be safe from danger if your actions are more in accord with the present conditions than those of the adversary.

If we wish to fight, the adversary can be forced to an engagement even though he is sheltered behind superior resources. All we need do is attack some other time when he will be obliged to react.

If we do not wish to fight, we can prevent the adversary from engaging us even though our conditions are unfavorable. All we need do is to throw something odd and unaccountable in his way.

By discovering the adversary's dispositions and keeping our own invisible, we can optimize our actions, while the adversary's must be haphazard.

We can form a single united discipline of play, while the adversary must flounder about to find the optimal playing style. Hence there will be a whole pitted against separate parts of a whole, which means that we shall be many to the adversary's few.

And if we are able thus to attack a self-doubting player from a position of confidence, our opponents will be in dire straits.

The time and conditions wherein we intend to fight must not be made known; for then the adversary will have to prepare against a possible attack in several different situations; and his thoughts being thus distributed in many directions, the confidence we shall encounter at any given point will be proportionately weak.

For should the adversary loosen his play, he will expose himself to increased risk; should he lower his risk, he will sacrifice opportunity; should he display strength, he will lessen his chance for action; should he feign weakness, he will enable opponents to gain favorable hands. If he pursues all styles of play all the time, he will all the time be weak.

Psychological weakness comes from having to prepare against possible attacks from a position of doubt; psychological strength, from compelling our adversary to take action without confidence in his approach.

Knowing the conditions and the times that are optimal for particular styles of play, we are free to concentrate on the larger view, able to gain insight from the patterns and behavior of other players.

But if neither time nor conditions be known, then the rash displays of strength will sacrifice opportunity, timid play will enable others to gain favorable hands, the level of risk and pace of play unsuitable for conditions. How much more so if the player settles into an unchanging pattern!

Though according to my estimate the players of the WPT exceed ours in confidence, this shall advantage them nothing in the matter of victory. I say then that victory can be achieved.

Though the adversary displays more boldness, we may prevent him from engaging on his terms. Observe so as to discern his plans and the likelihood of their success.

Rouse him, and learn the principle of his activity or inactivity. Force him to reveal himself, so as to find out his vulnerable spots.

Carefully compare the oppositions' styles and patterns, so that you may know where strength is superabundant and where it is deficient.

In making tactical dispositions, the highest pitch you can attain is to conceal them; conceal your dispositions, and you will be safe from the prying of the subtlest queries and observations, from the machinations of the wisest brains.

How victory may be produced for them out of the adversary's own tactics - that is what the multitude cannot comprehend.

All men can see the tactics whereby I prevail, but what none can see is the strategy out of which victory is evolved.

Do not repeat the tactics which have gained you one victory, but let your methods be regulated by the infinite variety of circumstances.

Gaming tactics are like unto water; for water in its natural course runs away from high places and hastens downwards.

So in the game, the way is to avoid what is strong and to strike at what is weak.

Water shapes its course according to the nature of the ground over which it flows; the player works out his victory in relation to the foe that he is facing.

Therefore, just as water retains no constant shape, so in the game there are no constant conditions.

He, who can modify his tactics in relation to his adversary and thereby succeed in winning, may be called a heaven-born player.

The five elements of antiquity (water, fire, wood, metal, earth) are not always equally predominant; the four seasons make way for each other in turn. There are short days and long; the moon has its periods of waning and waxing.

## Weak Points and Strong

_Sun Tzu said: Whoever is first in the field and awaits the coming of the enemy, will be fresh for the fight; whoever is second in the field and has to hasten to battle will arrive exhausted._

_Therefore the clever combatant imposes his will on the enemy, but does not allow the enemy's will to be imposed on him._

_By holding out advantages to him, he can cause the enemy to approach of his own accord; or, by inflicting damage, he can make it impossible for the enemy to draw near._

_If the enemy is taking his ease, he can harass him; if well supplied with food, he can starve him out; if quietly encamped, he can force him to move._

_Appear at points which the enemy must hasten to defend; march swiftly to places where you are not expected._

_An army may march great distances without distress, if it marches through country where the enemy is not._

_You can be sure of succeeding in your attacks if you only attack places which are undefended. You can ensure the safety of your defense if you only hold positions that cannot be attacked._

_Hence that general is skillful in attack whose adversary does not know what to defend; and he is skillful in defense whose adversary does not know what to attack._

_divine art of subtlety and secrecy! Through you we learn to be invisible, through you inaudible; and hence we can hold the enemy's fate in our hands._

_You may advance and be absolutely irresistible, if you make for the enemy's weak points; you may retire and be safe from pursuit if your movements are more rapid than those of the enemy._

_If we wish to fight, the enemy can be forced to an engagement even though he be sheltered behind a high rampart and a deep ditch. All we need do is attack some other place that he will be obliged to relieve._

_If we do not wish to fight, we can prevent the enemy from engaging us even though the lines of our encampment be merely traced out on the ground. All we need do is to throw something odd and unaccountable in his way._

_By discovering the enemy's dispositions and remaining invisible ourselves, we can keep our forces concentrated, while the enemy's must be divided._

_We can form a single united body, while the enemy must split up into fractions. Hence there will be a whole pitted against separate parts of a whole, which means that we shall be many to the enemy's few._

_And if we are able thus to attack an inferior force with a superior one, our opponents will be in dire straits._

_The spot where we intend to fight must not be made known; for then the enemy will have to prepare against a possible attack at several different points; and his forces being thus distributed in many directions, the numbers we shall have to face at any given point will be proportionately few._

_For should the enemy strengthen his van, he will weaken his rear; should he strengthen his rear, he will weaken his van; should he strengthen his left, he will weaken his right; should he strengthen his right, he will weaken his left. If he sends reinforcements everywhere, he will everywhere be weak._

_Numerical weakness comes from having to prepare against possible attacks; numerical strength, from compelling our adversary to make these preparations against us._

_Knowing the place and the time of the coming battle, we may concentrate from the greatest distances in order to fight._

_But if neither time nor place be known, then the left wing will be impotent to succor the right, the right equally impotent to succor the left, the van unable to relieve the rear, or the rear to support the van. How much more so if the furthest portions of the army are anything under a hundred LI apart, and even the nearest are separated by several LI!_

_Though according to my estimate the soldiers of Yueh exceed our own in number, that shall advantage them nothing in the matter of victory. I say then that victory can be achieved._

_Though the enemy be stronger in numbers, we may prevent him from fighting. Scheme so as to discover his plans and the likelihood of their success._

_Rouse him, and learn the principle of his activity or inactivity. Force him to reveal himself, so as to find out his vulnerable spots._

_Carefully compare the opposing army with your own, so that you may know where strength is superabundant and where it is deficient._

_In making tactical dispositions, the highest pitch you can attain is to conceal them; conceal your dispositions, and you will be safe from the prying of the subtlest spies, from the machinations of the wisest brains._

_How victory may be produced for them out of the enemy's own tactics--that is what the multitude cannot comprehend._

_All men can see the tactics whereby I conquer, but what none can see is the strategy out of which victory is evolved._

_Do not repeat the tactics which have gained you one victory, but let your methods be regulated by the infinite variety of circumstances._

_Military tactics are like unto water; for water in its natural course runs away from high places and hastens downwards._

_So in war, the way is to avoid what is strong and to strike at what is weak._

_Water shapes its course according to the nature of the ground over which it flows; the soldier works out his victory in relation to the foe whom he is facing._

_Therefore, just as water retains no constant shape, so in warfare there are no constant conditions._

_He who can modify his tactics in relation to his adversary and thereby succeed in winning, may be called a heaven-born captain._

_The five elements (water, fire, wood, metal, earth) are not always equally predominant; the four seasons make way for each other in turn. There are short days and long; the moon has its periods of waning and waxing._

# 7. Maneuvering

According to the principles of Sun Tzu: In the game, the will of the player receives its commands from the mind.

Having collected an array of patterns and studied various styles of play, he must blend and harmonize the different elements thereof before he even takes a seat at the table.

After that, comes tactical maneuvering, than which there is nothing more difficult. The difficulty of tactical maneuvering consists in turning the devious into the direct, and misfortune into gain.

Thus, to take a long and circuitous route, after enticing the adversary to take great risk, and though starting inferior to him, to contrive to surpass him, shows knowledge of the artifice of deviation.

Maneuvering thoughtfully is advantageous; with an undisciplined mind, most dangerous.

If you await an unbeatable hand in order to snatch an advantage, the chances are that you will be too late. On the other hand, to chase a hand is to risk great wealth.

Thus, if pursue every advantage, your wealth will fall into the hands of your foe.

If you chase the river card to outmaneuver your foe, you will lose much for a rare chance of victory.

If you chase the turn card to find a winning hand, you will risk some to the reach an elusive goal.

If you pay modestly to see the flop, you will risk little for great return.

We may take it then that a player without adequate resources for the present stage of play is lost.

We cannot cooperate with other players until we are acquainted with the designs of our neighbors.

We are not fit to play aggressively unless we are fully familiar with the face of the current conditions—the behavior of the opponents, the stage of the game, the relative strength of resources.

We shall be unable to turn natural advantage to account unless we make use of available signals.

In the game, practice dissimulation, and you will succeed.

Whether to play aggressively or defensively must be decided by circumstances.

Let your rapidity be that of the wind, your compactness that of the forest.

In raiding and plundering be like fire, in immovability like a mountain.

Let your plans be dark and impenetrable as night, and when you move, fall like a thunderbolt.

When you plunder an adversary, let the spoil be utilized for greater gain.

Ponder and deliberate before you make a move.

He will conquer who has learnt the artifice of deviation. Such is the art of maneuvering.

Deliberate clearly and let not your judgment be clouded. When a course of action is chosen, set your heart solidly upon it with full understanding.

Attentiveness, deliberation, and action are means whereby the eyes, the mind, and the heart of the host may be focused on one particular point.

The host thus forming a single united purpose is it impossible either for the brash to advance alone, or for the cowardly to retreat alone. This is the art of the unity of purpose.

Make much use of false signals and changing patterns, as a means of influencing the ears and eyes of your adversary.

A player may be robbed of his spirit; an adversary may be robbed of his presence of mind.

Now a player's spirit is keenest early in the game; by the middle it has begun to flag; and late in the contest, his mind is bent only on the finish.

A clever player, therefore, avoids an adversary when his spirit is keen, but attacks when he is sluggish and lacking discipline. This is the art of studying moods.

Disciplined and calm, to await the appearance of disorder and hubbub amongst the other players: this is the art of retaining self-possession.

To be near the goal while the adversary is still far from it, to wait at ease while the adversary is toiling and struggling, to be full with wealth while the adversary is short - this is the art of husbanding one's strength.

To refrain from discouraging an adversary who is signaling his intentions, to refrain from admonishing an adversary who is taking excessive risks - this is the art of studying circumstances.

It is an axiom of the game not to bluff against strength, nor to ignore the signals of an adversary showing strength.

Do not pursue an adversary who simulates flight; do not attack an adversary whose temper has been made keen.

Do not swallow bait offered by the adversary. Do not interfere with the battle of other players.

When you attack an adversary, leave an outlet free. Do not press a desperate foe too hard.

Such is the art of the game.

## Maneuvering

_Sun Tzu said: In war, the general receives his commands from the sovereign._

_Having collected an army and concentrated his forces, he must blend and harmonize the different elements thereof before pitching his camp._

_After that, comes tactical maneuvering, than which there is nothing more difficult. The difficulty of tactical maneuvering consists in turning the devious into the direct, and misfortune into gain._

_Thus, to take a long and circuitous route, after enticing the enemy out of the way, and though starting after him, to contrive to reach the goal before him, shows knowledge of the artifice of deviation._

_Maneuvering with an army is advantageous; with an undisciplined multitude, most dangerous._

_If you set a fully equipped army in march in order to snatch an advantage, the chances are that you will be too late. On the other hand, to detach a flying column for the purpose involves the sacrifice of its baggage and stores._

_Thus, if you order your men to roll up their buff-coats, and make forced marches without halting day or night, covering double the usual distance at a stretch, doing a hundred LI in order to wrest an advantage, the leaders of all your three divisions will fall into the hands of the enemy._

_The stronger men will be in front, the jaded ones will fall behind, and on this plan only one-tenth of your army will reach its destination._

_If you march fifty LI in order to outmaneuver the enemy, you will lose the leader of your first division, and only half your force will reach the goal._

_If you march thirty LI with the same object, two-thirds of your army will arrive._

_We may take it then that an army without its baggage-train is lost; without provisions it is lost; without bases of supply it is lost._

_We cannot enter into alliances until we are acquainted with the designs of our neighbors._

_We are not fit to lead an army on the march unless we are familiar with the face of the country--its mountains and forests, its pitfalls and precipices, its marshes and swamps._

_We shall be unable to turn natural advantage to account unless we make use of local guides._

_In war, practice dissimulation, and you will succeed._

_Whether to concentrate or to divide your troops, must be decided by circumstances._

_Let your rapidity be that of the wind, your compactness that of the forest._

_In raiding and plundering be like fire, is immovability like a mountain._

_Let your plans be dark and impenetrable as night, and when you move, fall like a thunderbolt._

_When you plunder a countryside, let the spoil be divided amongst your men; when you capture new territory, cut it up into allotments for the benefit of the soldiery._

_Ponder and deliberate before you make a move._

_He will conquer who has learnt the artifice of deviation. Such is the art of maneuvering._

_The Book of Army Management says: On the field of battle, the spoken word does not carry far enough: hence the institution of gongs and drums. Nor can ordinary objects be seen clearly enough: hence the institution of banners and flags._

_Gongs and drums, banners and flags, are means whereby the ears and eyes of the host may be focused on one particular point._

_The host thus forming a single united body, is it impossible either for the brave to advance alone, or for the cowardly to retreat alone. This is the art of handling large masses of men._

_In night-fighting, then, make much use of signal-fires and drums, and in fighting by day, of flags and banners, as a means of influencing the ears and eyes of your army._

_A whole army may be robbed of its spirit; a commander-in-chief may be robbed of his presence of mind._

_Now a soldier's spirit is keenest in the morning; by noonday it has begun to flag; and in the evening, his mind is bent only on returning to camp._

_A clever general, therefore, avoids an army when its spirit is keen, but attacks it when it is sluggish and inclined to return. This is the art of studying moods._

_Disciplined and calm, to await the appearance of disorder and hubbub amongst the enemy: this is the art of retaining self-possession._

_To be near the goal while the enemy is still far from it, to wait at ease while the enemy is toiling and struggling, to be well-fed while the enemy is famished:--this is the art of husbanding one's strength._

_To refrain from intercepting an enemy whose banners are in perfect order, to refrain from attacking an army drawn up in calm and confident array:--this is the art of studying circumstances._

_It is a military axiom not to advance uphill against the enemy, nor to oppose him when he comes downhill._

_Do not pursue an enemy who simulates flight; do not attack soldiers whose temper is keen._

_Do not swallow bait offered by the enemy. Do not interfere with an army that is returning home._

_When you surround an army, leave an outlet free. Do not press a desperate foe too hard._

_Such is the art of warfare._

# 8. Variation in Tactics

According to the principles of Sun Tzu: In the game, the player receives his commands from the mind, collects his skill and experience, and optimizes his resources.

When filled with doubt, do not act. In times where another player may be vanquished, join hands with allies, but only for a time. Do not linger in a state of weakness. In defensive situations, you must resort to stratagem. In desperate positions, you must act.

There are roads which must not be followed, players which must be not engaged, hands which must not be played, positions which must not be contested, impulses of the heart which must not be obeyed.

The player who thoroughly understands the advantages that accompany variation of tactics knows how to handle his game.

The player who does not understand these may be well acquainted with the techniques of the game, yet he will not be able to turn his knowledge to practical account.

So, the student of the game who is unversed in the art of varying his plans, even though he is acquainted with the Five Advantages, will fail to make the best use of his skill.

Hence in the wise player's plans, considerations of advantage and of disadvantage will be blended together.

If our expectation of advantage be tempered in this way, we may succeed in accomplishing the essential part of our schemes.

If, on the other hand, in the midst of difficulties we are always ready to seize an advantage, we may extricate ourselves from misfortune.

Reduce the aggressive opponents by inflicting damage on them; and make trouble for them, and keep them constantly engaged; hold out specious allurements, and make them rush to any given opportunity.

The art of the game teaches us to rely not on the likelihood of the foe not coming, but on our own readiness to receive him; not on the chance of his not attacking, but rather on the fact that we have made our position unassailable.

There are five dangerous faults which may affect a player: (1) Recklessness, which leads to destruction; (2) cowardice, which leads to forfeit; (3) a hasty temper, which can be provoked by insults; (4) a delicacy of honor which is sensitive to shame; (5) over-solicitude for his superstitions, which exposes him to worry and trouble.

These are the five besetting sins of a player, ruinous to the conduct of the game.

When a player is overthrown and bankrupt, the cause will surely be found among these five dangerous faults. Let them be a subject of meditation.

## Variation in Tactics

_Sun Tzu said: In war, the general receives his commands from the sovereign, collects his army and concentrates his forces_

_When in difficult country, do not encamp. In country where high roads intersect, join hands with your allies. Do not linger in dangerously isolated positions. In hemmed-in situations, you must resort to stratagem. In desperate position, you must fight._

_There are roads which must not be followed, armies which must be not attacked, towns which must be besieged, positions which must not be contested, commands of the sovereign which must not be obeyed._

_The general who thoroughly understands the advantages that accompany variation of tactics knows how to handle his troops._

_The general who does not understand these, may be well acquainted with the configuration of the country, yet he will not be able to turn his knowledge to practical account._

_So, the student of war who is unversed in the art of war of varying his plans, even though he be acquainted with the Five Advantages, will fail to make the best use of his men._

_Hence in the wise leader's plans, considerations of advantage and of disadvantage will be blended together._

_If our expectation of advantage be tempered in this way, we may succeed in accomplishing the essential part of our schemes._

_If, on the other hand, in the midst of difficulties we are always ready to seize an advantage, we may extricate ourselves from misfortune._

_Reduce the hostile chiefs by inflicting damage on them; and make trouble for them, and keep them constantly engaged; hold out specious allurements, and make them rush to any given point._

_The art of war teaches us to rely not on the likelihood of the enemy's not coming, but on our own readiness to receive him; not on the chance of his not attacking, but rather on the fact that we have made our position unassailable._

_There are five dangerous faults which may affect a general: (1) Recklessness, which leads to destruction; (2) cowardice, which leads to capture; (3) a hasty temper, which can be provoked by insults; (4) a delicacy of honor which is sensitive to shame; (5) over-solicitude for his men, which exposes him to worry and trouble._

_These are the five besetting sins of a general, ruinous to the conduct of war._

_When an army is overthrown and its leader slain, the cause will surely be found among these five dangerous faults. Let them be a subject of meditation._

# 9. Players on the Move

According to the principles of Sun Tzu: We come now to the question of managing your resources, and protecting them from loss. Quickly retreat from foolish risk, and keep to conditions with favorable odds of success.

Engage the adversary when chance of reward is great. Do not continue down the road of ever decreasing odds in order to play your hand. So much for chasing an inside straight.

After chasing a river card without success, you should get far away from it.

When gaining a winning hand on the river, do not advance with large wagers. It will be best to let your adversary advance, and then deliver your attack.

If you are anxious to engage an adversary, you should not pursue a hand which can only succeed on the river.

Moor your craft higher up than the adversary, and in a position of dominance. Do not face long odds to meet the enemy. So much for chasing a river card.

With respect to turn cards, your sole concern should be to get over them quickly, without any delay.

If forced to answer on the turn, you should have a hand where dominance may be gained on the river. So much for calling on the turn card.

For the flop, keep your hand in play when little is required to see it, so that the danger may be in front, and safety lie with quick escape. So much for paying large wagers to see the flop.

These are the four useful branches of the knowledge of play which enabled the players of renown to vanquish upstart opponents.

All players prefer wired pairs to unpaired and suited connectors to unsuited.

If you are careful of your riches and espouse wise play, you will be free from distraction of every kind, and this will spell victory.

When your position is favorable, use this to your advantage. Show strength; thus you will utilize the advantage, like those who gain by using the natural advantage of favorable ground.

Just as, when, in consequence of heavy rains up-country, a river which you wish to ford is swollen and flecked with foam, you must wait until it subsides.

So it is, that country in which there are precipitous cliffs with torrents running between, deep natural hollows, confined places, tangled thickets, quagmires and crevasses, should be left with all possible speed and not approached.

While we keep away from hazards, we should get the adversary to approach them; while we face them, we should let our foe suffer through them.

Hollow basins filled with reeds, or woods with thick undergrowth must be carefully routed out and searched; likewise there are situations where the adversary lies lurking, ready for ambush.

When the adversary is at ease and remains quiet, he is relying on the natural strength of his position.

When he keeps aloof and tries to provoke a battle, he is anxious for the other side to engage.

If his appearance is weak while he continues to call, he is tendering bait.

Subtle changes in manner or pattern means the adversary is readying his attack. Changes made noisily means that the adversary wants to make us suspicious.

The rising of birds in their flight is the sign of an ambuscade. So also, does not change indicate that a sudden attack is coming?

The signs of the dust clouds tell a discerning soul the actions of a distant army. So also, the patterns of the adversary tell us what he will do.

Humble words and continued calls are signs that the adversary is about to spring. Bold language and comments as if he is about to pounce are signs that he will retreat.

When the hand goes first to the chips, it is a sign that the adversary is eager for battle.

Deliberate behavior unaccompanied by an appropriate pattern of play indicates a ruse.

When the pattern of play by an adversary changes suddenly, it means that the critical moment has come.

When the adversary is seen advancing and then retreating, it is a lure.

Low shoulders reveal a weak hand; but beware the adversary who is upright in stature!

The eyes reveal the intentions of a player. One who quickly looks to his chips or frequently to his cards is indicating a position of strength.

If the adversary fails to see an advantage to be gained or makes no effort to secure it, the player is lacking in focus and vulnerable to attack.

Weakness or disinterest indicates strength; brashness or loud speech indicates a weak hand.

If there is reckless wagering, the mind's authority is weak. If misfortune begets sudden change, the player is tilting. If the adversary shows inwardly directed anger, it means that this one is weary, and the mind no longer directs the action.

When a player quickens his breath, and when the hands shake or the pitch of his voice is heightened, you may know that they are determined to fight to the end.

The sight of a player whispering to himself or mumbling in subdued tones points to dissonance between the mind and heart.

Unhappiness or anxiety in the face of your adversary betrays a condition of dire distress.

To begin by bluster, but afterwards to take fright at the adversary's play, shows a supreme lack of intelligence.

Beware the player who looks excessively upon his opponents. He is endeavoring to steal the pot.

If a player displays confidence time and again without entering the fray, the situation is one that demands great vigilance and circumspection.

If our resources are no more in number than the enemy, then that is amply sufficient; it only means that no direct attack can be made. What we can do is simply to concentrate all our available strength, keep a close watch on the adversary, and seek small gains.

He who exercises no forethought but makes light of his opponents is sure to be defeated by them.

If the impulses of the heart are not informed by experience, they will not prove submissive; and, unless submissive, then will be practically useless. If, although informed by experience, good play is not enforced, then one's intuition will be unless.

Therefore the intuition of the heart must be treated in the first instance with respect, but kept under control by means of iron discipline. This is a certain road to victory.

If in training the mind, commands are habitually enforced, the player will be well-disciplined; if not, his lack of discipline will lead to ruin.

If an adversary shows confidence in his play but always keeps discipline, his gain will be multiplied.

## The Army on the March

_Sun Tzu said: We come now to the question of encamping the army, and observing signs of the enemy. Pass quickly over mountains, and keep in the neighborhood of valleys._

_Camp in high places, facing the sun. Do not climb heights in order to fight. So much for mountain warfare._

_After crossing a river, you should get far away from it._

_When an invading force crosses a river in its onward march, do not advance to meet it in mid-stream. It will be best to let half the army get across, and then deliver your attack._

_If you are anxious to fight, you should not go to meet the invader near a river which he has to cross._

_Moor your craft higher up than the enemy, and facing the sun. Do not move up-stream to meet the enemy. So much for river warfare._

_In crossing salt-marshes, your sole concern should be to get over them quickly, without any delay._

_If forced to fight in a salt-marsh, you should have water and grass near you, and get your back to a clump of trees. So much for operations in salt-marches._

_In dry, level country, take up an easily accessible position with rising ground to your right and on your rear, so that the danger may be in front, and safety lie behind. So much for campaigning in flat country._

_These are the four useful branches of military knowledge which enabled the Yellow Emperor to vanquish four several sovereigns._

_All armies prefer high ground to low and sunny places to dark._

_If you are careful of your men, and camp on hard ground, the army will be free from disease of every kind, and this will spell victory._

_When you come to a hill or a bank, occupy the sunny side, with the slope on your right rear. Thus you will at once act for the benefit of your soldiers and utilize the natural advantages of the ground._

_When, in consequence of heavy rains up-country, a river which you wish to ford is swollen and flecked with foam, you must wait until it subsides._

_Country in which there are precipitous cliffs with torrents running between, deep natural hollows, confined places, tangled thickets, quagmires and crevasses, should be left with all possible speed and not approached._

_While we keep away from such places, we should get the enemy to approach them; while we face them, we should let the enemy have them on his rear._

_If in the neighborhood of your camp there should be any hilly country, ponds surrounded by aquatic grass, hollow basins filled with reeds, or woods with thick undergrowth, they must be carefully routed out and searched; for these are places where men in ambush or insidious spies are likely to be lurking._

_When the enemy is close at hand and remains quiet, he is relying on the natural strength of his position._

_When he keeps aloof and tries to provoke a battle, he is anxious for the other side to advance._

_If his place of encampment is easy of access, he is tendering a bait._

_Movement amongst the trees of a forest shows that the enemy is advancing. The appearance of a number of screens in the midst of thick grass means that the enemy wants to make us suspicious._

_The rising of birds in their flight is the sign of an ambuscade. Startled beasts indicate that a sudden attack is coming._

_When there is dust rising in a high column, it is the sign of chariots advancing; when the dust is low, but spread over a wide area, it betokens the approach of infantry. When it branches out in different directions, it shows that parties have been sent to collect firewood. A few clouds of dust moving to and fro signify that the army is encamping._

_Humble words and increased preparations are signs that the enemy is about to advance. Violent language and driving forward as if to the attack are signs that he will retreat._

_When the light chariots come out first and take up a position on the wings, it is a sign that the enemy is forming for battle._

_Peace proposals unaccompanied by a sworn covenant indicate a plot._

_When there is much running about and the soldiers fall into rank, it means that the critical moment has come._

_When some are seen advancing and some retreating, it is a lure._

_When the soldiers stand leaning on their spears, they are faint from want of food._

_If those who are sent to draw water begin by drinking themselves, the army is suffering from thirst._

_If the enemy sees an advantage to be gained and makes no effort to secure it, the soldiers are exhausted._

_If birds gather on any spot, it is unoccupied. Clamor by night betokens nervousness._

_If there is disturbance in the camp, the general's authority is weak. If the banners and flags are shifted about, sedition is afoot. If the officers are angry, it means that the men are weary._

_When an army feeds its horses with grain and kills its cattle for food, and when the men do not hang their cooking-pots over the camp-fires, showing that they will not return to their tents, you may know that they are determined to fight to the death._

_The sight of men whispering together in small knots or speaking in subdued tones points to disaffection amongst the rank and file._

_Too frequent rewards signify that the enemy is at the end of his resources; too many punishments betray a condition of dire distress._

_To begin by bluster, but afterwards to take fright at the enemy's numbers, shows a supreme lack of intelligence._

_When envoys are sent with compliments in their mouths, it is a sign that the enemy wishes for a truce._

_If the enemy's troops march up angrily and remain facing ours for a long time without either joining battle or taking themselves off again, the situation is one that demands great vigilance and circumspection._

_If our troops are no more in number than the enemy, that is amply sufficient; it only means that no direct attack can be made. What we can do is simply to concentrate all our available strength, keep a close watch on the enemy, and obtain reinforcements._

_He who exercises no forethought but makes light of his opponents is sure to be captured by them._

_If soldiers are punished before they have grown attached to you, they will not prove submissive; and, unless submissive, then will be practically useless. If, when the soldiers have become attached to you, punishments are not enforced, they will still be unless._

_Therefore soldiers must be treated in the first instance with humanity, but kept under control by means of iron discipline. This is a certain road to victory._

_If in training soldiers commands are habitually enforced, the army will be well-disciplined; if not, its discipline will be bad._

_If a general shows confidence in his men but always insists on his orders being obeyed, the gain will be mutual._

# 10. Engagements

According to the principles of Sun Tzu: We may distinguish six kinds of engagements that are like unto terrain, to wit: (1) Accessible terrain; (2) entangling terrain; (3) temporizing terrain; (4) narrow passes; (5) precipitous heights; (6) positions at a great distance from the enemy.

Terrain in which the adversary is passive, and his behavior easily discernible, is called accessible terrain.

With regard to ground of this nature, be before the adversary in taking the initiative, and carefully guard against a trap. Then you will be able to battle with advantage.

Terrain in which the adversary is passive, but yet cunning, is called entangling.

From a position of this sort, if the adversary is unprepared, you may sally forth and defeat him. But if the adversary is prepared for your coming, and you fail to defeat him, then, beware, for disaster may very well ensue!

When the position is such that neither side will gain by making the first move, it is called temporizing terrain.

In a position of this sort, even though the adversary should offer us attractive bait, it will be advisable not to stir forth, but rather to retreat, thus enticing the adversary in his turn; then, when he has taken the bait, we may deliver our attack with advantage.

When the adversary is defensive, and possesses great cunning, this is like occupying a narrow pass.

Should a masterful adversary have a favorable position, consider carefully the risk before you attack – there may perhaps be no escape.

When the adversary is aggressive in play, but discernible in behavior, it is like occupying the precipitously high terrain with respect to him. There wait for him to come up to you.

If your foe possesses the higher ground, do not follow him. Wait for a better opportunity!

If your foe plays aggressively, and with great cunning, it is as if you battle from a great distance, and it is difficult to know when to engage him. A series of confrontations will be to your disadvantage.

These six are the principles connected with Conditions. The player who seeks success must be careful to study them.

Now a player is exposed to six several calamities, not arising from natural causes, but from faults for which the player himself is responsible. These are: (1) premature retreat; (2) indecision; (3) impulsiveness; (4) tunnel vision; (5) disorganization; (6) over-aggressiveness.

Other conditions being equal, if one raise is met by another ten times its size, the result will be the retreat of the former, if he lacks confidence in his position.

When the impulsive heart is too strong and the mind too weak, the result is calamity. When the mind is too strong and the will too weak, the result is collapse.

When the mind and will act rashly, out of anger or resentment, against all the lessons of training and experience, the result is ruin.

When the mind is weak and without a clear plan; when intuition of the heart has not been cultivated, and the actions are made in haphazard manner, the result is utter disorganization.

When a player, unable to estimate the adversary's strength, allows an inferior hand to engage a better one, or makes an aggressive play against a powerful foe without considering the cost, the result must be rout.

These are six ways of courting defeat, which must be carefully noted by the player who desires to master the game.

The cards may be a player's best ally; but the power of estimating the adversary, of controlling the wagers, and of shrewdly calculating difficulties, dangers and probability of success, constitutes the test of a great master.

He who knows these things, and in the game puts his knowledge into practice, will win his battles. He who knows them not, nor practices them, will surely be defeated.

If a hand is sure to result in victory, then you must play it, even though intuition argues against it; if a hand will not result in victory, then you must not play it, even at your intuition's bidding.

The player who advances without coveting fame and retreats without fearing disgrace, whose only thought is to protect his wealth and do good service for his game, is a master player.

Regard proven instincts as your children and they will follow you into the deepest valleys; look upon them as your own beloved sons, and they will stand by you even unto defeat.

If, however, your mind is indulgent, but unable to enforce its commands; and incapable, moreover, of quelling your impulsiveness: then your instincts must be likened to spoilt children; they are useless for any practical purpose.

If we know that our strong condition compels us to attack, but are unaware that the adversary is unwilling to engage, we have gone only halfway towards victory.

If we know that the adversary is weak and open to attack, but are wavering in our will to engage, we have gone only halfway towards victory.

If we know that the adversary is eager to engage, and also feel compelled to attack, but additional cards may reverse our condition, we have still gone only halfway towards victory.

Hence the experienced player, once in motion, is never bewildered; once he has determined the correct course, he is never at a loss.

Hence the saying: If you know the adversary and know yourself, your victory will not stand in doubt; if you know the Progression and Conditions of the Game, you may make your victory complete.

## Terrain

_Sun Tzu said: We may distinguish six kinds of terrain, to wit: (1) Accessible ground; (2) entangling ground; (3) temporizing ground; (4) narrow passes; (5) precipitous heights; (6) positions at a great distance from the enemy._

_Ground which can be freely traversed by both sides is called accessible._

_With regard to ground of this nature, be before the enemy in occupying the raised and sunny spots, and carefully guard your line of supplies. Then you will be able to fight with advantage._

_Ground which can be abandoned but is hard to re-occupy is called entangling._

_From a position of this sort, if the enemy is unprepared, you may sally forth and defeat him. But if the enemy is prepared for your coming, and you fail to defeat him, then, return being impossible, disaster will ensue._

_When the position is such that neither side will gain by making the first move, it is called temporizing ground._

_In a position of this sort, even though the enemy should offer us an attractive bait, it will be advisable not to stir forth, but rather to retreat, thus enticing the enemy in his turn; then, when part of his army has come out, we may deliver our attack with advantage._

_With regard to narrow passes, if you can occupy them first, let them be strongly garrisoned and await the advent of the enemy._

_Should the army forestall you in occupying a pass, do not go after him if the pass is fully garrisoned, but only if it is weakly garrisoned._

_With regard to precipitous heights, if you are beforehand with your adversary, you should occupy the raised and sunny spots, and there wait for him to come up._

_If the enemy has occupied them before you, do not follow him, but retreat and try to entice him away._

_If you are situated at a great distance from the enemy, and the strength of the two armies is equal, it is not easy to provoke a battle, and fighting will be to your disadvantage._

_These six are the principles connected with Earth. The general who has attained a responsible post must be careful to study them._

_Now an army is exposed to six several calamities, not arising from natural causes, but from faults for which the general is responsible. These are: (1) Flight; (2) insubordination; (3) collapse; (4) ruin; (5) disorganization; (6) rout._

_Other conditions being equal, if one force is hurled against another ten times its size, the result will be the flight of the former._

_When the common soldiers are too strong and their officers too weak, the result is insubordination. When the officers are too strong and the common soldiers too weak, the result is collapse._

_When the higher officers are angry and insubordinate, and on meeting the enemy give battle on their own account from a feeling of resentment, before the commander-in-chief can tell whether or no he is in a position to fight, the result is ruin._

_When the general is weak and without authority; when his orders are not clear and distinct; when there are no fixes duties assigned to officers and men, and the ranks are formed in a slovenly haphazard manner, the result is utter disorganization._

_When a general, unable to estimate the enemy's strength, allows an inferior force to engage a larger one, or hurls a weak detachment against a powerful one, and neglects to place picked soldiers in the front rank, the result must be rout._

_These are six ways of courting defeat, which must be carefully noted by the general who has attained a responsible post._

_The natural formation of the country is the soldier's best ally; but a power of estimating the adversary, of controlling the forces of victory, and of shrewdly calculating difficulties, dangers and distances, constitutes the test of a great general._

_He who knows these things, and in fighting puts his knowledge into practice, will win his battles. He who knows them not, nor practices them, will surely be defeated._

_If fighting is sure to result in victory, then you must fight, even though the ruler forbid it; if fighting will not result in victory, then you must not fight even at the ruler's bidding._

_The general who advances without coveting fame and retreats without fearing disgrace, whose only thought is to protect his country and do good service for his sovereign, is the jewel of the kingdom._

_Regard your soldiers as your children, and they will follow you into the deepest valleys; look upon them as your own beloved sons, and they will stand by you even unto death._

_If, however, you are indulgent, but unable to make your authority felt; kind-hearted, but unable to enforce your commands; and incapable, moreover, of quelling disorder: then your soldiers must be likened to spoilt children; they are useless for any practical purpose._

_If we know that our own men are in a condition to attack, but are unaware that the enemy is not open to attack, we have gone only halfway towards victory._

_If we know that the enemy is open to attack, but are unaware that our own men are not in a condition to attack, we have gone only halfway towards victory._

_If we know that the enemy is open to attack, and also know that our men are in a condition to attack, but are unaware that the nature of the ground makes fighting impracticable, we have still gone only halfway towards victory._

_Hence the experienced soldier, once in motion, is never bewildered; once he has broken camp, he is never at a loss._

_Hence the saying: If you know the enemy and know yourself, your victory will not stand in doubt; if you know Heaven and know Earth, you may make your victory complete._

# 11. The Nine Situations

According to the principles of Sun Tzu: The art of the game recognizes nine varieties of situations which are like unto ground: (1) Dispersive ground; (2) facile ground; (3) contentious ground; (4) open ground; (5) ground of intersecting highways; (6) serious ground; (7) difficult ground; (8) hemmed-in ground; (9) desperate ground.

When one has an advantage of resources, many opponents, but an unexceptional hand, then one is like a chieftain fighting in his own territory: it is dispersive ground.

When one has few resources, but few adversaries and a good hand, then one is like he who has penetrated into hostile territory, but to no great distance: it is facile ground.

When one has many opponents with similar resources, and a hand which is not weak, then one is like he who is on ground, the possession of which imports great advantage to either side: it is contentious ground.

When one has many opponents with equal wealth early in the game, then one it is like being on ground whereupon each side has liberty of movement: it is open ground.

When one has few adversaries, each with like resources, late in the game, then one is like he who stands upon strategic ground, wherein whoever occupies it first has the advantage: it is a ground of intersecting highways.

When one has dominant resources well into the game, then one is like an army which has penetrated into the heart of a hostile country: it is serious ground.

When, well into the game, one has resources similar to others, then one is like he who stands on rugged steeps, marshes or fens - all country that is hard to traverse: it is difficult ground.

When, early in the game, one has few resources, then one is like he who stands upon ground reached through narrow gorges, allowing retreat only via tortuous paths: it is hemmed in ground.

When, late in the game, one has few resources, then one is like he who finds himself on ground whereupon to avoid destruction, he must fight without delay: it is desperate ground.

On dispersive ground, therefore, fight not. On facile ground, halt not. On contentious ground, attack not.

On open ground, do not try to block the adversary's way. On the ground of intersecting highways, join hands with your allies.

On serious ground, gather in plunder. In difficult ground, keep steadily on the move.

On hemmed-in ground, resort to stratagem. On desperate ground, fight.

Those who were called skillful players of old knew how to drive a wedge between the adversary's mind and actions; to prevent co-operation between his knowledge and will; to hinder wise intention from directing his play.

When the adversary's will and mind were united, they managed to keep them in disorder.

When it was to their advantage, they made a forward move; when otherwise, they stopped still.

If asked how to cope with a dominant foe on the point of moving to the attack, I should say: "Begin by seizing something which your adversary holds dear; then he will be amenable to your will."

Rapidity is the essence of aggressiveness: take advantage of the adversary's lack of discipline, make your way by unexpected moves, and attack during unguarded moments.

The following are the principles to be observed during aggressive play: The further you penetrate into your foe's wealth, the greater will be the solidarity of your wisdom and action, and thus the defenders will not prevail against you.

Make strong moves against weak play in order to resupply your own resources.

Carefully study the state of your mind, and do not depart from wise play. Concentrate your energy and hoard your strength. Keep your pattern of play continually on the move, and devise unfathomable plans.

Train your will, so that you may not waver or grow fearful when extreme risk is required. If it will face ruin, there is nothing the heart and mind in harmony may not achieve.

Soldiers when in desperate straits lose the sense of fear. If there is no place of refuge, they will stand firm. So also, the heart, when properly trained, will lose all fear when all seems lost.

Thus, the heart will be constantly vigilant; it will do your will; without restrictions, if will be faithful; without thought, it can be trusted.

Refrain from playing favorite hands, and do away with superstitious doubts. Then, until defeat itself comes, no calamity need be feared.

If one's stack is not overburdened, it is not because of distaste for riches; if one's survival is not unduly long, it is not because one is disinclined to victory.

At the time one makes a large wager, one's heart may pound and one's stomach may sink. But let them once be brought to bay, and they will display the courage of Doyle Brunson or Amarillo Slim.

The skillful tactician may be likened to a two-headed rattler. Strike at one head, and you will be attacked by its second; strike at the other, and you will be attacked by the first; strike at its middle, and you will be attacked by both heads.

Asked if players can be made to imitate the two-headed rattler, I should answer, yes. For the one player and the other are foes; yet if they are crossing a river in the same boat and are caught by a storm, they will come to each other's assistance just as the left hand helps the right.

Hence it is not enough to put one's trust in a string of good fortune, and the success so far obtained.

The principle on which to manage one's play is to set up a standard of courage which one must reach.

How to make the best of both strong and weak - that is a question involving the proper use of situations.

Thus the skillful player conducts his actions just as though he were wisdom, leading his will by the hand.

It is the business of a player to be quiet and thus ensure secrecy; steady and contemplative, and thus maintain order.

He must be able to mystify his foes by false reports and appearances, and thus keep them in total ignorance.

By altering his arrangements and changing his plans, he keeps all opponents without definite knowledge. By shifting his patterns, he prevents them from anticipating his purpose.

At the critical moment, the aggressive player acts like one who has climbed up a height and then kicks away the ladder behind him. He carries himself deep into hostile territory before he shows his hand.

He burns his boats and breaks his cooking-pots; like a shepherd driving a flock of sheep, he drives his adversaries this way and that, and none know where he is going.

To muster one's stack and bring it into danger - this may be termed the will of the warrior.

The different measures suited to the nine varieties of ground; the expediency of aggressive or defensive tactics; and the fundamental laws of human nature: these are things that must most certainly be studied.

When chasing a hand, the general principle is that succeeding brings cohesion of mind and will; falling short means dispersion.

When time is short to eliminate a weaker opponent, you find yourself on critical ground. When with singleness of purpose you may cooperate with an adversary for a time, the ground is one of intersecting highways.

When you possess a strong hand with many resources, it is serious ground; with but few resources, it is facile ground.

When you have few resources early in the game, it is hemmed-in ground; late in the game, it is desperate ground.

Therefore, on dispersive ground, I would avoid risky engagements. On facile ground, I would be watchful for potential pitfalls.

On contentious ground, I would display strength.

On open ground, I would keep a vigilant eye on my defenses. On ground of intersecting highways, I would seek out alliances to defeat the weakest foe.

On serious ground, I would use my wealth to dominate the opponent. On difficult ground, I would seek moderate gains.

On hemmed-in ground, I would seek small wins, biding my time. On desperate ground, I would seek an opportune moment to commit everything.

For it is the aggressive player's disposition to offer an obstinate resistance when pressed, to fight hard when he cannot help himself, and to act when he has fallen into danger.

We cannot enter into alliance with neighboring princes until we are acquainted with their designs. We are not fit to lead an army on the march unless we are familiar with the face of the country - its mountains and forests, its pitfalls and precipices, its marshes and swamps.

To be ignorant of any one of the following four or five principles does not befit a skillful player.

When a skillful player attacks a more powerful adversary, his skill shows itself in keeping the foe on his heels. One overawes his adversaries, and their allies are prevented from joining the fray.

Hence he does not strive to ally himself with all and sundry, nor does he foster the power of other players. He carries out his own secret designs, keeping his antagonists in awe. Thus he is able to capture their wealth and bring them to defeat.

Commit your actions without regard to the cards, make decisions based not on previous hands; and you will be able to handle a long tournament as though you had to do with but a single game.

Ponder the deed itself; never let a bad beat overcome rational play. When the outlook is bright, ponder it briefly; but dwell not when the situation is gloomy.

Use skill when in times of peril, and you will survive; play wisely when in desperate straits and you will come off in safety.

For it is precisely when one has fallen into harm's way that one is capable of striking a blow for victory.

Success in the game is gained by carefully accommodating ourselves to the adversary's purpose.

By persistently hanging on the adversary's flank, we shall succeed in the long run in killing his composure.

This is called ability to accomplish a thing by sheer cunning.

Keep your intentions hidden until the moment.

Be stern in your deliberations, so that you may control the situation.

If your foe leaves a door open, you must rush in.

Forestall your adversary by seizing what he holds dear, and subtly contrive to time his arrival on the ground.

Walk in the path defined by rule, and accommodate yourself to the adversary until you can fight a decisive battle.

At first, then, exhibit the coyness of a maiden, until the foe gives you an opening; afterwards emulate the rapidity of a running hare, and it will be too late for the enemy to oppose you.

## The Nine Situations

_Sun Tzu said: The art of war recognizes nine varieties of ground: (1) Dispersive ground; (2) facile ground; (3) contentious ground; (4) open ground; (5) ground of intersecting highways; (6) serious ground; (7) difficult ground; (8) hemmed-in ground; (9) desperate ground._

_When a chieftain is fighting in his own territory, it is dispersive ground._

_When he has penetrated into hostile territory, but to no great distance, it is facile ground._

_Ground the possession of which imports great advantage to either side, is contentious ground._

_Ground on which each side has liberty of movement is open ground._

_Ground which forms the key to three contiguous states, so that he who occupies it first has most of the Empire at his command, is a ground of intersecting highways._

_When an army has penetrated into the heart of a hostile country, leaving a number of fortified cities in its rear, it is serious ground._

_Mountain forests, rugged steeps, marshes and fens--all country that is hard to traverse: this is difficult ground._

_Ground which is reached through narrow gorges, and from which we can only retire by tortuous paths, so that a small number of the enemy would suffice to crush a large body of our men: this is hemmed in ground._

_Ground on which we can only be saved from destruction by fighting without delay, is desperate ground._

_On dispersive ground, therefore, fight not. On facile ground, halt not. On contentious ground, attack not._

_On open ground, do not try to block the enemy's way. On the ground of intersecting highways, join hands with your allies._

_On serious ground, gather in plunder. In difficult ground, keep steadily on the march._

_On hemmed-in ground, resort to stratagem. On desperate ground, fight._

_Those who were called skillful leaders of old knew how to drive a wedge between the enemy's front and rear; to prevent co-operation between his large and small divisions; to hinder the good troops from rescuing the bad, the officers from rallying their men._

_When the enemy's men were united, they managed to keep them in disorder._

_When it was to their advantage, they made a forward move; when otherwise, they stopped still._

_If asked how to cope with a great host of the enemy in orderly array and on the point of marching to the attack, I should say: "Begin by seizing something which your adversary holds dear; then he will be amenable to your will."_

_Rapidity is the essence of war: take advantage of the enemy's unreadiness, make your way by unexpected routes, and attack unguarded spots._

_The following are the principles to be observed by an invading force: The further you penetrate into a country, the greater will be the solidarity of your troops, and thus the defenders will not prevail against you._

_Make forays in fertile country in order to supply your army with food._

_Carefully study the well-being of your men, and do not overtax them. Concentrate your energy and hoard your strength. Keep your army continually on the move, and devise unfathomable plans._

_Throw your soldiers into positions whence there is no escape, and they will prefer death to flight. If they will face death, there is nothing they may not achieve. Officers and men alike will put forth their uttermost strength._

_Soldiers when in desperate straits lose the sense of fear. If there is no place of refuge, they will stand firm. If they are in hostile country, they will show a stubborn front. If there is no help for it, they will fight hard._

_Thus, without waiting to be marshaled, the soldiers will be constantly on the qui vive; without waiting to be asked, they will do your will; without restrictions, they will be faithful; without giving orders, they can be trusted._

_Prohibit the taking of omens, and do away with superstitious doubts. Then, until death itself comes, no calamity need be feared._

_If our soldiers are not overburdened with money, it is not because they have a distaste for riches; if their lives are not unduly long, it is not because they are disinclined to longevity._

_On the day they are ordered out to battle, your soldiers may weep, those sitting up bedewing their garments, and those lying down letting the tears run down their cheeks. But let them once be brought to bay, and they will display the courage of a Chu or a Kuei._

_The skillful tactician may be likened to the shuai-jan. Now the shuai-jan is a snake that is found in the ChUng mountains. Strike at its head, and you will be attacked by its tail; strike at its tail, and you will be attacked by its head; strike at its middle, and you will be attacked by head and tail both._

_Asked if an army can be made to imitate the shuai-jan, I should answer, Yes. For the men of Wu and the men of Yueh are enemies; yet if they are crossing a river in the same boat and are caught by a storm, they will come to each other's assistance just as the left hand helps the right._

_Hence it is not enough to put one's trust in the tethering of horses, and the burying of chariot wheels in the ground._

_The principle on which to manage an army is to set up one standard of courage which all must reach._

_How to make the best of both strong and weak--that is a question involving the proper use of ground._

_Thus the skillful general conducts his army just as though he were leading a single man, willy-nilly, by the hand._

_It is the business of a general to be quiet and thus ensure secrecy; upright and just, and thus maintain order._

_He must be able to mystify his officers and men by false reports and appearances, and thus keep them in total ignorance._

_By altering his arrangements and changing his plans, he keeps the enemy without definite knowledge. By shifting his camp and taking circuitous routes, he prevents the enemy from anticipating his purpose._

_At the critical moment, the leader of an army acts like one who has climbed up a height and then kicks away the ladder behind him. He carries his men deep into hostile territory before he shows his hand._

_He burns his boats and breaks his cooking-pots; like a shepherd driving a flock of sheep, he drives his men this way and that, and nothing knows whither he is going._

_To muster his host and bring it into danger:--this may be termed the business of the general._

_The different measures suited to the nine varieties of ground; the expediency of aggressive or defensive tactics; and the fundamental laws of human nature: these are things that must most certainly be studied._

_When invading hostile territory, the general principle is, that penetrating deeply brings cohesion; penetrating but a short way means dispersion._

_When you leave your own country behind, and take your army across neighborhood territory, you find yourself on critical ground. When there are means of communication on all four sides, the ground is one of intersecting highways._

_When you penetrate deeply into a country, it is serious ground. When you penetrate but a little way, it is facile ground._

_When you have the enemy's strongholds on your rear, and narrow passes in front, it is hemmed-in ground. When there is no place of refuge at all, it is desperate ground._

_Therefore, on dispersive ground, I would inspire my men with unity of purpose. On facile ground, I would see that there is close connection between all parts of my army._

_On contentious ground, I would hurry up my rear._

_On open ground, I would keep a vigilant eye on my defenses. On ground of intersecting highways, I would consolidate my alliances._

_On serious ground, I would try to ensure a continuous stream of supplies. On difficult ground, I would keep pushing on along the road._

_On hemmed-in ground, I would block any way of retreat. On desperate ground, I would proclaim to my soldiers the hopelessness of saving their lives._

_For it is the soldier's disposition to offer an obstinate resistance when surrounded, to fight hard when he cannot help himself, and to obey promptly when he has fallen into danger._

_We cannot enter into alliance with neighboring princes until we are acquainted with their designs. We are not fit to lead an army on the march unless we are familiar with the face of the country--its mountains and forests, its pitfalls and precipices, its marshes and swamps. We shall be unable to turn natural advantages to account unless we make use of local guides._

_To be ignored of any one of the following four or five principles does not befit a warlike prince._

_When a warlike prince attacks a powerful state, his generalship shows itself in preventing the concentration of the enemy's forces. He overawes his opponents, and their allies are prevented from joining against him._

_Hence he does not strive to ally himself with all and sundry, nor does he foster the power of other states. He carries out his own secret designs, keeping his antagonists in awe. Thus he is able to capture their cities and overthrow their kingdoms._

_Bestow rewards without regard to rule, issue orders without regard to previous arrangements; and you will be able to handle a whole army as though you had to do with but a single man._

_Confront your soldiers with the deed itself; never let them know your design. When the outlook is bright, bring it before their eyes; but tell them nothing when the situation is gloomy._

_Place your army in deadly peril, and it will survive; plunge it into desperate straits, and it will come off in safety._

_For it is precisely when a force has fallen into harm's way that is capable of striking a blow for victory._

_Success in warfare is gained by carefully accommodating ourselves to the enemy's purpose._

_By persistently hanging on the enemy's flank, we shall succeed in the long run in killing the commander-in-chief._

_This is called ability to accomplish a thing by sheer cunning._

_On the day that you take up your command, block the frontier passes, destroy the official tallies, and stop the passage of all emissaries._

_Be stern in the council-chamber, so that you may control the situation._

_If the enemy leaves a door open, you must rush in._

_Forestall your adversary by seizing what he holds dear, and subtly contrive to time his arrival on the ground._

_Walk in the path defined by rule, and accommodate yourself to the enemy until you can fight a decisive battle._

_At first, then, exhibit the coyness of a maiden, until the enemy gives you an opening; afterwards emulate the rapidity of a running hare, and it will be too late for the enemy to oppose you._

# 12. Attack

According to the principles of Sun Tzu: There are five ways of attacking. The first is aggressively; the second is patiently; the third is methodically; the fourth is psychologically; the fifth is indirectly.

In order to carry out an attack, we must have means available. The resources for taking the offensive should ideally be kept in readiness.

There is a proper season for making attacks, and special times for starting a conflagration.

The proper season is when the adversary wavers; the special days are when discord exists.

In attacking, one should be prepared to meet five possible developments:

(1) When one sees weakness in an adversary's play, attack with a strong hand.

(2) If an adversary is weakened, but his play is sound, bide your time and do not attack.

(3) When an adversary's resources are nearly exhausted, attack, if it is practicable; if not, await an opportunity.

(4) If it is possible to make an assault with a very strong hand, do not wait for signs of weakness, but deliver your attack at a favorable moment.

(5) When you begin an attack, allow an escape. Do not become wed to hand which may be defeated.

A wind that rises in the daytime lasts long, but a night breeze soon falls.

For the wise player, the five developments connected with attack must be known, the probability of success calculated, and a watch kept for the proper times.

Hence those who use attack with discipline show intelligence; those who are wary of traps gain an accession of strength.

By means of caution, an adversary may be thwarted, but not robbed of all his resources.

Unhappy is the fate of one who tries to win his battles and succeed in his attacks without cultivating the spirit of enterprise; for the result is waste of time and general stagnation.

Hence the saying: The enlightened ruler lays his plans well ahead; the good general cultivates his resources.

Move not unless you see an advantage; use not your wealth unless there is something to be gained; fight not unless the position is critical.

No player should put chips in the pot merely to gratify his own spleen; none should fight a battle simply out of pique.

If it is to your advantage, make a forward move; if not, stay where you are.

Anger may in time change to gladness; vexation may be succeeded by content.

But a stack that has once been exhausted can never come again into being; nor can the bankrupt be made wealthy.

Hence the enlightened player is heedful, and the full of caution. This is the way to keep at peace and one's resources intact.

## The Attack By Fire

_Sun Tzu said: There are five ways of attacking with fire. The first is to burn soldiers in their camp; the second is to burn stores; the third is to burn baggage trains; the fourth is to burn arsenals and magazines; the fifth is to hurl dropping fire amongst the enemy._

_In order to carry out an attack, we must have means available. The material for raising fire should always be kept in readiness._

_There is a proper season for making attacks with fire, and special days for starting a conflagration._

_The proper season is when the weather is very dry; the special days are those when the moon is in the constellations of the Sieve, the Wall, the Wing or the Cross-bar; for these four are all days of rising wind._

_In attacking with fire, one should be prepared to meet five possible developments:_

_(1) When fire breaks out inside to enemy's camp, respond at once with an attack from without._

_(2) If there is an outbreak of fire, but the enemy's soldiers remain quiet, bide your time and do not attack._

_(3) When the force of the flames has reached its height, follow it up with an attack, if that is practicable; if not, stay where you are._

_(4) If it is possible to make an assault with fire from without, do not wait for it to break out within, but deliver your attack at a favorable moment._

_(5) When you start a fire, be to windward of it. Do not attack from the leeward._

_A wind that rises in the daytime lasts long, but a night breeze soon falls._

_In every army, the five developments connected with fire must be known, the movements of the stars calculated, and a watch kept for the proper days._

_Hence those who use fire as an aid to the attack show intelligence; those who use water as an aid to the attack gain an accession of strength._

_By means of water, an enemy may be intercepted, but not robbed of all his belongings._

_Unhappy is the fate of one who tries to win his battles and succeed in his attacks without cultivating the spirit of enterprise; for the result is waste of time and general stagnation._

_Hence the saying: The enlightened ruler lays his plans well ahead; the good general cultivates his resources._

_Move not unless you see an advantage; use not your troops unless there is something to be gained; fight not unless the position is critical._

_No ruler should put troops into the field merely to gratify his own spleen; no general should fight a battle simply out of pique._

_If it is to your advantage, make a forward move; if not, stay where you are._

_Anger may in time change to gladness; vexation may be succeeded by content._

_But a kingdom that has once been destroyed can never come again into being; nor can the dead ever be brought back to life._

_Hence the enlightened ruler is heedful, and the good general full of caution. This is the way to keep a country at peace and an army intact._

# 13. The Use of Information

According to the principles of Sun Tzu: Winning consistently and surviving a long tournament entails the expenditure of considerable time and resources.

Opponents may face each other for hours, striving for the victory which is decided by a single hand. This being so, to remain in ignorance of the adversary's condition simply because one begrudges the outlay of attention and effort is the height of stupidity.

One who acts thus is no skillful player, no present help to oneself, no master of victory.

Thus, what enables the wise player with a clear mind to strike and conquer, and achieve things beyond the reach of ordinary men, is foreknowledge.

Now this foreknowledge cannot be elicited from spirits; neither can it be obtained inductively from experience, nor by any deductive calculation.

Knowledge of the adversary's dispositions can only be obtained from inquiry and observation of the behavior of other players.

Hence the discernment of information, of which there are five classes: (1) patterns of play; (2) volunteered information; (3) conversation; (4) elicited responses; (5) observed mannerisms.

When these five kinds of insights are all at work, none can discover the secret system. This is called "divine manipulation of the threads." It is the player's most precious faculty.

Information gained from a discernible and predictable pattern of play is like having local spies who know the lay of the land.

Information being volunteered, such as through the showing of cards, is like having inward spies, making use of the adversary's own knowledge.

Signals discerned from an adversary's conversation are like converted spies, getting hold of a foe's spies and using them for our own purposes.

Doing certain things openly to elicit a response from one's adversary is like the use of deceptive spies.

The garnishing of information from the "tells" and mannerisms of an adversary is like a spy bringing back news from the camp of a foe.

Hence it is that no greater value may be assigned than to the masterful interpretation of information. No skill should be more guarded. In no other business should greater secrecy be preserved.

Information cannot be usefully discerned without a certain intuitive sagacity.

It cannot be properly elicited without the appearance of benevolence and straightforwardness.

Without subtle ingenuity of mind, one cannot make certain of the truth of one's discernment.

Be subtle! Be subtle! And gain information through every aspect of the game.

If a secret piece of news is divulged before the time is ripe, the current plan must be put to death and deliberations of the mind must begin anew.

Whether the present object be to win the game, or to win the hand, it is always necessary to begin by using all discernible information. Our senses must be sharpened to ascertain these.

The adversary's efforts to discern information from us must be thwarted. Thus, provide false signals at appropriate moments.

It is by interpreting the conversation of the adversary, that patterns of play may be more fully discernible, and volunteered information may be tested.

It is owing to his information, again, that we can provide false signals when the adversary seeks to elicit information from us.

Lastly, observed mannerisms, once fully discerned, may offer key insights at critical junctures.

The end and aim of discerning signals, in all its five varieties, is knowledge of the adversary; and this knowledge can only be derived, in the first instance, from the pattern of his play. Hence it is essential that the adversary's conversation be treated with the utmost skepticism.

Many victories of old have been gained by the skilled discernment of signals.

Hence it is only the enlightened players who will interpret signals to gain information, and thereby achieve great results. The proper discernment of information is a most important element against the masterful adversary; because on it hinges a player's ability to emerge victorious.

## The Use Of Spies

_Sun Tzu said: Raising a host of a hundred thousand men and marching them great distances entails heavy loss on the people and a drain on the resources of the State. The daily expenditure will amount to a thousand ounces of silver. There will be commotion at home and abroad, and men will drop down exhausted on the highways. As many as seven hundred thousand families will be impeded in their labor._

_Hostile armies may face each other for years, striving for the victory which is decided in a single day. This being so, to remain in ignorance of the enemy's condition simply because one grudges the outlay of a hundred ounces of silver in honors and emoluments, is the height of inhumanity._

_One who acts thus is no leader of men, no present help to his sovereign, no master of victory._

_Thus, what enables the wise sovereign and the good general to strike and conquer, and achieve things beyond the reach of ordinary men, is foreknowledge._

_Now this foreknowledge cannot be elicited from spirits; it cannot be obtained inductively from experience, nor by any deductive calculation._

_Knowledge of the enemy's dispositions can only be obtained from other men._

_Hence the use of spies, of whom there are five classes: (1) Local spies; (2) inward spies; (3) converted spies; (4) doomed spies; (5) surviving spies._

_When these five kinds of spy are all at work, none can discover the secret system. This is called "divine manipulation of the threads." It is the sovereign's most precious faculty._

_Having local spies means employing the services of the inhabitants of a district._

_Having inward spies, making use of officials of the enemy._

_Having converted spies, getting hold of the enemy's spies and using them for our own purposes._

_Having doomed spies, doing certain things openly for purposes of deception, and allowing our spies to know of them and report them to the enemy._

_Surviving spies, finally, are those who bring back news from the enemy's camp._

_Hence it is that which none in the whole army are more intimate relations to be maintained than with spies. None should be more liberally rewarded. In no other business should greater secrecy be preserved._

_Spies cannot be usefully employed without a certain intuitive sagacity._

_They cannot be properly managed without benevolence and straightforwardness._

_Without subtle ingenuity of mind, one cannot make certain of the truth of their reports._

_Be subtle! be subtle! and use your spies for every kind of business._

_If a secret piece of news is divulged by a spy before the time is ripe, he must be put to death together with the man to whom the secret was told._

_Whether the object be to crush an army, to storm a city, or to assassinate an individual, it is always necessary to begin by finding out the names of the attendants, the aides-de-camp, and door-keepers and sentries of the general in command. Our spies must be commissioned to ascertain these._

_The enemy's spies who have come to spy on us must be sought out, tempted with bribes, led away and comfortably housed. Thus they will become converted spies and available for our service._

_It is through the information brought by the converted spy that we are able to acquire and employ local and inward spies._

_It is owing to his information, again, that we can cause the doomed spy to carry false tidings to the enemy._

_Lastly, it is by his information that the surviving spy can be used on appointed occasions._

_The end and aim of spying in all its five varieties is knowledge of the enemy; and this knowledge can only be derived, in the first instance, from the converted spy. Hence it is essential that the converted spy be treated with the utmost liberality._

_Of old, the rise of the Yin dynasty was due to I Chih who had served under the Hsia. Likewise, the rise of the Chou dynasty was due to Lu Ya who had served under the Yin._

_Hence it is only the enlightened ruler and the wise general who will use the highest intelligence of the army for purposes of spying and thereby they achieve great results. Spies are a most important element in water, because on them depends an army's ability to move._

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