Long Tao: Jiang Wei (The General's Authority)

King Wu asked Tai Gong: "By what means can a general establish authority? How can he manifest sagacity? How can he ensure prohibitions are strictly observed and orders promptly executed?"

Tai Gong replied: "A general establishes authority by executing the high-ranking, manifests sagacity by rewarding the lowly, and ensures compliance through prudent and impartial application of punishments and rewards. Therefore, execute one who can awe the entire army through his punishment; reward one who can delight the whole army through his merit. The essence of punishment lies in striking the noble, while the essence of reward resides in benefiting the humble. When able to execute those holding high positions and crucial responsibilities, it demonstrates punishments reach the uppermost ranks. When able to reward stable boys, grooms, and feeders in humble stations, it shows rewards penetrate to the lowliest levels. When punishments extend to the highest and rewards reach the lowest - herein lies the foundation of a general's authority and the guarantee of his commands' execution."