Now the world covers nine thousand li square, and the whole territory of Qi is only one thousand li square. If one tries to conquer the other eight, what is the difference between this and Zou’s fighting with Chu? Why not turn to what is of fundamental importance?

The territory within the four seas embraces nine divisions, each of a thousand li square. All Ch’t together is but one of them. If with one part you try to subdue the other eight, what is the difference between that and Tsâu’s contending with Ch’û? For, with such a desire, you must turn back to the proper course for its attainment.

Of the nine thousand square miles of land that the sea incloses, Ch’i has gathered one. What difference is there between, conquering eight with one and Tsou standing against Ch’u? Therefore, let us go back to the root of it.

Here within the vast seas, there are nine regions, each spreading a thousand square miles, and your Ch'i is but one of them. To conquer eight with one, how is that any different from Chou declar¬ing war on Ch’u?"You must return to fundamentals.

Now the four seas contain about nine thousand Le, and the whole of the Tse country forms about one ninth part of this extent : if then you attempt to subdue eight parts by one, where is the difference between this and that of Tsow fighting with Tsoo ? Examine the root of the matter.