The Huai River rises from Tongbai, flowing eastward far and wide.
For a thousand miles it never rests; the Fei River flows by its side.
Not for a thousand or hundred miles does it join the Huai's flow; Shouzhou's county is called Anfeng.
In Tang's Zhenyuan era, a man named Dong Zhaonan lived there in seclusion, doing good; the governor could not recommend him.
The emperor heard not his fame; rank and salary never reached his door.
Outside his gate were only clerks, daily coming to levy taxes and demand money.
Alas, Dong Sheng! He plowed at dawn, returned at night to read ancient books.
All day he had no rest, sometimes gathering firewood in the hills.
Sometimes fishing in the waters, then entering the kitchen to prepare fine meals.
Going to the hall to inquire after his parents' well-being; his parents were not sorrowful.
His wife was not complaining; alas, Dong Sheng was filial and kind.
Men did not know him; only Heaven knew.
Auspicious signs appeared without schedule; his family dog gave birth and went out to seek food.
A hen came to feed its pups, pecking in the yard for insects and ants.
Feeding them, they would not eat, their cries mournful.
Hesitating, pacing, long it would not leave.
Using its wings to cover them, waiting for the dog's return. Alas, Dong Sheng!
Who will be his companion? People of this age,
husband and wife abuse each other, brothers become foes.
They eat the ruler's salary, yet cause their parents worry.
What kind of heart is this? Alas, Dong Sheng has no companion.