Not only is military knowledge requisite for _directing_ the blow, but he must also have the military energy necessary for _striking_ that blow, and the military activity necessary for parrying the attacks of the enemy.

A rapid _coup d'oeil_ prompt decision, active movements, are as indispensable as sound judgment; for the general must _see_, and _decide_, and _act_, all in the same instant.

Accordingly we find that most great generals of ancient and modern times have gained their laurels while still young.
Philip of Macedon ascended the throne at the age of twenty-two, and soon distinguished himself in his wars with the neighboring states.

At the age of forty-five he had conquered all Greece.

He died at forty-seven.
Alexander the Great had defeated the celebrated Theban band at the battle of Cheronea, and gained a military reputation at the age of eighteen.