1. As for Abu Bishr, he has become a model
Of generosity in his breath and drink.

2. So if you find fault with him, you will repent, certain
That none is worthier of his wealth than he.

3. A nobility exceeding all nobles, and beneath it
A refinement that frees the heart of its fetters.

4. I have received from him a sincere devotion
That has pierced all my arrows with his arrows,

5. So that if you could see into his conscience
You would see me in his breast among his hopes.

6. Or have you not seen the roses with which he gifted us
A gift from one whose friend came to mind?

7. Roses blushing red like cheeks, variegated
With shyness, white in the whiteness of his deeds.

8. And coffee, pale, kept being served
From the pure joys and the lawful gains.

9. Inclusive, giving joy to the destitute, and yet
That wealth is but increase in his austerity.

10. And he met his death disappointed,
While death stood red before him.

11. So he fell as the brave fall; his days
Passed and the heroes sprang from his loins.

12. He came, and the miles had ravaged him,
Stripping his soul and his garments.

13. Had it been proper to give to one unseen
What cannot be seen, to his sublime absence and train -

14. I would have returned his gift to him, though exalted
From that, I have drawn some of his qualities.