Sextus Iulius Frontinus, vir consularis de re militari

SEXTI IULII FRONTINI, A MAN OF CONSULAR RANK,
STRATEGEMATICON Book of Ruses, BOOK ONE

SINCE I have joined the number of those who study the science of warfare and seem to have satisfied the task I set for myself, I think it is still a duty to collect the skillful deeds of commanders—which the Greeks have gathered under the single term Strategematicon ruses/military stratagems—into concise commentaries. For in this way, commanders will be provided with examples of counsel and foresight, from which their ability to devise and conduct similar operations may be nourished. Furthermore, one who compares their own invention with proven experiments will not need to fear the outcome. I am neither ignorant of nor do I deny that writers of history have included a part of this in their own work and have recorded whatever was notable by their authors. But in my opinion, one should consider those who are busy. It is a long task to follow individual events scattered throughout a vast body of historical texts. Moreover, those who have excerpted notable events have often confused the reader with a mere heap of facts. My diligence will focus on the effort to present exactly what is required, just as the situation demands. Having surveyed the categories, I have prepared helpful examples as counsel. To ensure the variety of matters is arranged appropriately, I have divided these into three books. In the first will be examples that apply to the time when battle is joined. In the second, those that pertain to battle and concluded peace treaties. The third will contain strategems for laying and breaking a siege. Having assigned specific types to these categories, I seek pardon for this labor, so that I may not be criticized for carelessness by someone who finds an example I have omitted. For who could suffice to review all the documents handed down in both languages Latin and Greek? Hence, I have permitted myself to pass over many things, which those who have read other books promising the same will know I did not do without cause. Indeed, it will be easy to suggest additions under any heading. Since I undertook this work more for the benefit of others than for my own reputation, I will not believe that I am criticized if someone provides something more for it. If there are those to whom these volumes are dear, let them remember to provide gratitude, by which we may distinguish similar natures. For all things that are done by a commander with foresight, utility, magnificence, and constancy...