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In ancient times, the people of Yongzhou liked to live by the river. They were all very good at swimming. One day, the water in the rivers suddenly rose. Five or six people were crossing the Xiang River in a small boat. When the boat reached the middle of the river, it leaked and sank. All the people on the boat swam for their lives. At this moment, a man was seen paddling like crazy in the water, but with little progress. One of his companions asked in surprise: "You used to be the best swimmer among us. Why are youlagging behind today?" The man panted heavily and replied: "I've got ， copper coins wrapped around my waist. They are very heavy, so I can't swim fast." His companions advised him anxiously: "Throw away the copper coins at once!" The man only shook his head and gave no answer. After a short while, he became weaker and weaker. At this moment, those who had got on the bank shouted to him desperately: "You are such a headstrong fool. You are about to drown, so what do you want the money for?" But the man shook his head again, sank rapidly and drowned. 古时候，永州的人喜欢住在河边，他们都很擅长游泳。 一次，河水暴涨。有五六个人乘着小船横渡湘江。船刚到江心，就漏水下沉了，船上的人纷纷泅水逃生。 | 
