Page:The book of war, the military classic of the Far East (IA bookofwarmilitar00caltiala).pdf/120

116

Lord Wen asked and said:

“If punishment be just and reward impartial, is victory thereby gained?”

And Wu answered and said:{[--}}

“I cannot speak of all the things that concern justice and impartiality, but on these alone dependence cannot be placed.

"If the people hear the word of command, or listen to the order with rejoicing; if, when the army be raised, and a multitude assembled, they go forth gladly to the fight; if, in the tumult of the fight, when blade crosses blade, the soldiers gladly die; upon these three things can the lord of the people place his trust.”

And Lord Wen said:

“How can this be brought about?”

And Wu answered and said:

“Seek out merit, advance and reward it, and encourage those without fame.”