"Though the Tortoise Lives Long

Though the tortoise blessed with magic powers lives long, Its days have their allotted span;

Though winged serpents ride high on the mist, They turn to dust and ashes at the last;

An old war-horse may be stabled, Yet still it longs to gallop a thousand li;

And a noble-hearted man though advanced in years Never abandons his proud aspirations.

Man's span of life, whether long or short, Depends not on Heaven alone;

One who eats well and keeps cheerful Can live to a great old age.

And so, with joy in my heart, I hum this song."