《智慧书·第一辑·一至五十》第17则
Vary the Mode of Action; not always the same way, so as to distract attention, especially if there be a rival. Not always from first impulse; they will soon recognise the uniformity, and by anticipating, frustrate your designs. It is easy to kill a bird on the wing that flies straight: not so one that twists. Nor always act on second thoughts: they can discern the plan the second time. The enemy is on the watch, great skill is required to circumvent him. The gamester never plays the card the opponent expects, still less that which he wants.
注释摘要
这则格言的标题与正文是一句话的两半，合在一起意思很清楚：要不断变换行事的方式，不要总是同一套路，这样才能让旁人的注意力摸不准你的路数，尤其当你面前有对手时。既不要总是凭第一冲动行事——重复太多次，别人就会认出你的固定反应，抢先一步让你的计划落空。接着他给了一个简洁的意象：飞直线的鸟好打，飞得曲折的鸟不好打。然后紧跟着又翻转一次：也不要每次都走第二念，也就是…