Kitap 9
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The second requisite is to know accurately the conditions2. Knowledge of the capabilities of the force in moving. under which marches by day or night may be performed, and the distances to which they can extend; and not only marches on land, but also voyages by sea.
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The third and most important is to have some knowledge of the seasons, and to be able to adapt the design to them.
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Nor again is the selection of the ground for the operation to be regarded as unimportant, since it often happens that it is this which makes what seems impossible possible, and what seemed possible impossible.
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Finally there must be no neglect of the3. Care in concerting signals. 4. Care in selecting men. subject of signals and counter signals; and the choice of persons by whom and with whom the operation is to be carried out.
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Of these points some are learnt by experience, some 5. Knowledge of localities. from history, and others by the study of scientific strategy. It is a most excellent thing too that the general should have a personal knowledge both of the roads, and the locality which he has to reach, and its natural features; as well as of the persons by whom and with whom he is to act. If that is not possible, the next best thing is that he should make careful inquiries and not trust just any one: and men who undertake to act as guides to such places should always deposit security with those whom they are conducting.
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These,—and other points like them, it is perhaps possible6. Accurate knowledge of natural phenomena enabling a general to make accurate calculation of time. that leaders may learn sufficiently from the mere study of strategy, whether practical or in books. But scientific investigation requires scientific processes and demonstrations, especially in astronomy and geometry; the working out of which is not much to our present point, though their results are important, and may contribute largely to the success of such undertakings.
