Wang Bi asks: fame or life, which is dearer? Life or wealth, which is greater? Gain or loss, which is more painful? Excessive love costs much, excessive hoarding leads to heavy loss. Contentment avoids disgrace, knowing when to stop avoids danger — thus one can endure long.

Heshang Gong asks: fame fades, retire when it arrives. Wealth harms the body. The desire for gain corrupts conduct. Contentment protects the body from disgrace. Knowing when to stop keeps one safe. Those who understand enjoy long life and peaceful rule.