1. Wonder comes only from the sons of bygone days
From whom the cloak of blame was never removed

2. They taught time itself treachery and deceit
And gathered all manner of evil, covert and overt

3. Until one of their own followed their example and destroyed them
For the grudge of a subordinate may undo a leader

4. From every merciless person, if he has power
And even when events have turned against them

5. The shadow of a kingdom that has passed away deludes him
Like one taking shade in an unsupported structure

6. They showed joy in propitious days
During an era stamped with violation of covenants

7. And good fortune amidst misfortune lasts only
As long as a star remains fixed in its place

8. The wretchedness of creation is seen by every perceptive eye
To decree their inevitable downfall without need of astrology

9. All those restless over their affairs, wavering between
Deferral and haste in everything they undertake

10. If their dynasties are granted a single year's respite
It is as though they were granted the lifetime of epochs