1. My friend, you who have strayed, may God bless you both,
Though you did not intend India to be your land,

2. Tell her we did not lose our way,
But we strayed in order to meet you on purpose.

3. I chose from Numaan a branch of Arak wood,
As a gift for India, so who will deliver it?

4. And I entrusted him with my sword, so he would hold it high,
With no bending or bowing while carrying it.

5. If we survive, gifts will reach India,
Carried by skilled men who cut across the deserts.

6. But when we rested the camels, after the long journey,
We found the people had gathered in the villages.

7. I handed her the toothstick and my heart was afraid,
And said “O India you have destroyed us in passion.”

8. She stretched out a beautifully adorned hand to take it,
And said “I do not see any gift like this being gifted.”

9. She came forward like a messenger who had delivered,
And stood dragging the train and veil.

10. She went towards the people I intended,
Not seeking anything but to kill me deliberately.

11. She was no India, but violent raiders
Of beasts, driving a lone camel foal.

12. She was not a well-groomed lady carried
On a sedan in a litter mixed with perfume.

13. With the sweetest scent of meadow blossoms
In the morning, the slopes being watered with dew.