1. What excuse have I, who cannot bear patience
With devotion and forbearance as my companions?

2. Passion planted beauty in his charming mouth
That gave sweet nectar to drink and wine.

3. So he lent the gaze of a fawn and the softness
Of a tender branch, and to the anemone his lips.

4. From him I glimpse at dawn the light of day,
And from him at dusk I espy the moon.

5. In him is delight, and in his eyes meaning
For enchantment which the beholder deems magic.

6. He said when he saw my love and my repulsion:
“You hide your passion yet feign disaffection.”

7. You are like one fasting who yearns for water
Due to extreme thirst, yet disdains to break fast.

8. I said “Forbear, you are my master,” but
Grey hairs left no excuse for me in ignorance.