I follow Chang Yü in my interpretation of 怒. 卑 is expanded by Mei Yao-ch‘ên into 示以卑弱. Wang Tzŭ, quoted by Tu Yu, says that the good tactician plays with his adversary as a cat plays with a mouse, first feigning weakness and immobility, and then suddenly pouncing upon him.
23. 佚而勞之親而離之
If he is taking his ease, give him no rest.
This is probably the meaning, though Mei Yao-ch‘ên has the note: 以我之佚待彼之勞 “while we are taking our ease, wait for the enemy to tire himself out.” The Yü Lan has 引而勞之 “Lure him on and tire him out.” This would seem also to have been Ts‘ao Kung’s text, judging by his comment 以利勞之.
If his forces are united, separate them.
Less plausible is the interpretation favoured by most of the commentators: “If sovereign and subject are in accord, put division between them.”
24. 攻其無備出其不意
Attack him where he is unprepared, appear where you are not expected.
25. 此兵家之勝不可先傳也
These military devices, leading to victory, must not be divulged beforehand.