Let the state be small.
Let the people be few.
Though they have equipment to arm ten battalions,
they do not do it.
They take death seriously, and do not venture far.
They have ships and carts,
but there is no place they want to go.
They have armor and weapons,
but they are not displayed.
Men return to knotting rope.
They enjoy their meals, and are comfortable in their clothes.
They are content in their homes, and happy with their lives.
Though the neighboring state is so close,
you can hear the cocks and dogs,
they leave each other in peace as they grow old and die.