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"When the government is at sixes and sevens, The common people sail right along, But when the government is everywhere vigilant These same people are always at fault. It is upon misfortune that good fortune leans, It is within good fortune itself that misfortune crouches in ambush, And where does it all end? There is no straightforward maneuver Because the straightforward reverts to surprise And what is going well again becomes dark and ominous. It has been a long time now that we human beings have lost the way. Hence be square but do not cut anyone; Be pointed but do not pierce anyone; Be true but do not act willfully and without restraint; Shine forth but do not be dazzling."