Summary of the Art of War (Art. IV)

Table of contents -- Chapter I

Art. III -- Art. V

Article IV. Of Wars with or without Allies

Full Text

Mendell and Craighill Translation

Of course, in a war an ally is to be desired, all other things being equal. Although a great state will more probably succeed than two weaker states in alliance against it, still the alliance is stronger than either separately. The ally not only furnishes a contingent of troops, but, in addition, annoys the enemy to a great degree by threatening portions of his frontier which otherwise would have been secure. All history teaches that no enemy is so insignificant as to be despised and neglected by any power, however formidable.

Table of contents -- Chapter I

Art. III -- Art. V