There are cases in which the greatest daring is the greatest wisdom. - Carl von Clausewitz

steam boiler, delivering so and so many pounds of steam to its engines as long as the envelope can contain the pressure; but let a breach in its continuity arise — relieving the boiling water of all restraint — and in a moment the whole mass flashes into vapour, developing a power no work of man can oppose.

But if the assailant, without troubling himself about the existence of the Army awaiting his attack in a defensive position, advances with his main body by another line in pursuit of his object, then he 'passes by the position,' and if he can do this with impunity, and really does it, he will immediately enforce the abandonment of the position, consequently put an end to its usefulness.

... in the whole range of human activities, war most closely resembles a game of cards.