1. I was never enchanted by a fair rose-cheeked maid,
Who forsakes her lover's company in disdain,

2. Nor did I lament the cheek-veil as though it were a rose
Whose bashfulness is concealed by its petalled garment.

3. I take to myself every downtrodden soul
Who has suffered injustice and has no defender.

4. But I was enchanted by a bosom friend
Who generously offered himself though I had the choice.

5. When he passed on into the care of Him who never
Lets one perish, and sailed to his final rest,

6. I regretted with the regret of one who sells his horse
When it has grown old and useless.

7. So my eyes will never dry of tears for him
And my heart will know no rest.