To take revenge on an enemy, give him an elephant -- first he must thank you for the gift, and then the elephant's appetite will deplete your enemy's resources. (Nepalese Proverb) - More Nepalese Proverbs...
One man restored our fortunes by delay. [By skilfully avoiding an engagement, Fabius exhausted the resources of the enemy.] (Latin Proverb) - More Latin Proverbs...