Page:The book of war, the military classic of the Far East (IA bookofwarmilitar00caltiala).pdf/116

112 Lord Wen asked and said:

“If, in a narrow valley with steep places on either side, the enemy be met, and they are many and we are few, what should be done?"

And Wu answered and said:

“If they be met among hills, woods, in deep mountains, or wide fens, advance quickly, retire swiftly, and hesitate not. If the enemy be suddenly met among high mountains or deep valleys, be the first to strike the drum and fall upon them. Let bow and cross bow advance; shoot and capture; observe the state of their ranks; and, if there be confusion, do not hesitate to strike.”

Lord Wen asked and said:

“If the enemy be suddenly met in a narrow place with high mountains on either side, and advance and retreat are alike impossible, what should be done in such a case?”

And Wu answered and said:

“This is called War in valleys where numbers are of no avail. The ablest officers should be collected, and set against the