Sun Tzu........................

There has never been a protracted war that has brought benefits to the state.

Therefore, in war it is advantageous to go for swift victory and not prolonged campaigns.

When victory is long delayed, the ardor and morale of the army will be depressed.  When the siege of a city is prolonged, the army will be exhausted.  When the army engages in protracted campaigns, the resources of the state will be impoverished.

-Sun Tzu:  War & Management
Chow-Hou Wee, et. al.