Page:The Kural or The Maxims Of Tiruvalluvar.pdf/164



491. Provoke no war and begin no operation except after making a thorough reconnaissance of the theatre of operations.

492. It is an immense advantage even to the powerful and the strong to be based on fortified places.

493. Even the weak can hold their own and triumph over a powerful foe if they choose the proper theatre and operate cautiously.

494. The plans of thy adversaries will be baffled if thou fall back on strong positions and base thyself on them.

495. All-powerful is the crocodile in deep water : but out of it, it is the plaything of its foes. Rh