THE OFFENSIVE

The chapter of Kural devoted to aggressive action by princes displays remarkable practical wisdom, and indicates a long history of operational experience.

Decisions should be taken after thorough consideration. But once a decision is taken there should be no hesitation in action.

There are some operations that should be lengthened out in time; prolong them accordingly. There are some that demand promptness; do not be dilatory in such.

Aggressive action, wherever it is feasible, is good. Where it is not likely to be successful, try other means to attain your object.

To undertake an aggressive operation and to abandon it without completing the discomfiture of the enemy is most harmful. Both ineffectual aggression and the incomplete removal of causes of enmity is unsafe, -like fire that is not fully extinguished. You may expect trouble to grow in Course Of time.

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